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Our Blog
Posts for tag: root canal
It's surprising just how much pain an infected or inflamed tooth can cause. Simple things, like taking a bite of a sandwich or drinking a cup of coffee, can send your pain level soaring. Fortunately, root canal therapy can end your pain. Our Andover, MA, dentists - Dr. Nicholas Papapetros, Dr. Jhon Giraldo, and Dr. Leo Kharin - offer the tooth-saving treatment at Dentistry by Design.
Why are root canals needed?
The center of your tooth is filled with a collection of connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels called pulp. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, you may experience pain and a range of other unpleasant symptoms. Your risk of an inflammation or infection rises if you have extensive decay, injured your tooth, or had more than one dental procedure on a tooth. You may also be at increased risk if you have a crack in your tooth that allows bacteria to reach your pulp.
An inflammation or infection in the pulp won't go away on its own. If you ignore the pain, you may lose your tooth and put your health in jeopardy. Root canal therapy is the only way to treat your symptoms and relieve your pain.
What happens during a root canal?
Before treatment begins, you'll receive local anesthesia to ensure that you don't feel pain during the procedure. Once the anesthesia takes effect, your Andover dentist will open the tooth and remove the pulp. He'll also clean the interior of the tooth and use tiny files to clean and shape the small root canals that travel into the roots from the top of your tooth. In most cases, you'll receive a temporary filling after the pulp is removed and will return to the office for your permanent filling in about a week. Your tooth will be filled with a flexible rubber-based filling at your second root canal appointment. A crown may also be recommended, as the root canal procedure can weaken teeth.
How can I tell if I need a root canal?
Common root canal symptoms include:
- Pain, either intermittent or constant
- Increased pain when biting or drinking or eating hot or cold foods and beverages
- A swollen, red gum around the tooth
- Change in tooth color
- Abscess symptoms, which include severe pain, fever, swollen lymph nodes, facial swelling, or a pimple on the gum
Protect your tooth and ease your pain with root canal therapy. Call our Andover, MA, dentists - Dr. Papapetros, Dr. Giraldo, and Dr. Kharin - of Dentistry by Design at (978) 475-5333 to schedule your appointment.
What your dentists in Andover want you to know
If you've ever wondered what goes into a root canal, you're not alone. Root canals are a commonly prescribed treatment that is often misunderstood by many people. The truth is, root canals are simple procedures and can provide permanent pain relief while still allowing you to keep your tooth. Your dentists at Dentistry by Design in Andover, MA, want to share the facts about root canals and how they can help you.
If you have severe dental pain, you can have the offending tooth removed, but that may not be the best choice for several reasons. Your natural teeth are still the best option to provide chewing function, and if you have a tooth removed, it will affect your bite and your ability to chew the foods you love. Also, you will be faced with either living without the tooth or replacing it with expensive, or less than adequate options.
A root canal can eliminate severe dental pain associated with deep decay, infection or dental trauma. To find out if you need a root canal, you should visit your dentists in Andover. They will take x-rays and do a thorough examination and testing to determine if you can benefit from root canal therapy.
If you do need a root canal, your dentists in Andover will create a small opening inside your tooth and remove diseased tissue through the opening. They will use tiny instruments called files to clean out inflamed tissue and fluid which is causing you pressure and pain. A small amount of sedative material is placed inside your tooth.
Your tooth will begin to "calm down" over a few days, and you will feel less pain. After your tooth pain is resolved, the tooth will be reopened, cleaned out, and filled with an inert, rubbery material known as gutta-percha. As a final step, your tooth is sealed up with a permanent filling.
Root canal treatment is effective and allows you to retain your tooth and your full smile. Before you think about having a tooth removed, call your dentists at Dentistry by Design in Andover, MA, to find out about root canal treatment. A root canal can save your smile, so call today!
Need a root canal? Millions of teeth are treated and saved each year with root canal treatment. Dentistry by Design in Andover, MA, offers root canal therapy with a gentle touch. Here are five fabulous benefits of root canal therapy.
It Is Virtually Pain-Free
Modern technology and anesthetics allow Andover dentists to complete root canals treatments virtually pain-free. Your dentist will ensure your complete comfort during the procedure by using oral sedation or local anesthesia. Most patients report that the root canal procedure is no more painful than having a dental filling placed.
Relieve Your Toothache
A toothache is a sign of a decaying tooth. The discomfort can range from intense and sharp to a dull ache. Its level may range from slight to extreme. The pain may affect your ability to enjoy a full night's rest. Root canal therapy will relieve your tooth pain and improve your well-being.
Avoid Tooth Extraction
Root canal therapy will save your natural tooth and allow you to keep it functional for decades. Extraction is not a good alternative to root canal therapy. Having a tooth pulled will leave a gap that can impair the appearance of your smile and reduce the functionality of your bite. Saving your natural tooth is always the best option.
Improve Your Smile
Teeth that have had a root canal need to be restored with a dental crown to prevent them from fracturing. All-porcelain crowns are smooth and translucent, matching the shade and size of your natural teeth. They look just like normal teeth. With a dental crown, you can have a smile that's both strong and beautiful.
It Has a High Success Rate
Root canal therapy techniques have improved significantly in recent years. Root-canal-treated teeth can last a lifetime with proper care. If a root-canal-treated tooth causes pain, the tooth can often be retreated.
Now is the perfect time to make a wise decision. Don't put off root canal therapy if you need it. Say goodbye to your toothache forever. Call Dentistry by Design in Andover, MA, at (978) 475-5333 to schedule your dental appointment. You'll be glad you did.
One of the most popular dental procedures, a root canal comes with many misconceptions and misunderstandings. Many people think root canals are painful, time-consuming or even a bad option. However, root canal therapy saves a tooth from extraction and the side effects which come with it. Learn more about root canals with help from your Andover, MA dentist at Dentistry By Design.
What makes a root canal necessary?
Tooth decay begins on the tooth's outer enamel layer. The decay eats through the tooth, eventually reaching the inner pulp chamber which houses the tooth's nerve and blood vessels. It is when the decay reaches this point that a toothache occurs. This makes tooth pain one of the main indicators that a root canal is necessary. Sensitivity to hot and cold, headache and abscess also indicate an infected tooth.
How does a root canal work?
A root canal removes the tooth's infected pulp and nerve. After your Andover dentist numbs the area ensuring you feel no pain or discomfort, he or she makes a small hole in the top of the tooth. Through the hole, the tooth's inner pulp and nerve are accessed and removed. The inside of the tooth is scrubbed clean and disinfected with special instruments. After removing all of the infected tissue, your dentist fills the tooth from the bottom of the root canals up using composite materials. In most cases, a dental crown placed over the tooth protects and strengthens it. Your dentist places a temporary crown to protect the tooth during the several weeks it takes the dental laboratory to fabricate the permanent crown.
The Benefits of a Root Canal
While dental restorations like dental implants can replace missing teeth, they will never be as strong as a natural tooth. For this reason, your dentist's number one concern during treatment is to save your tooth. Saving the natural tooth also eliminates the effects of a missing tooth such as teeth moving around the gap to compensate for the missing tooth. Additionally, it prevents bone atrophy, which causes sagging facial muscles and even premature aging.
For more information on how a root canal can save your smile, please contact Dr. Nicholas T. Papapetros, Dr. Jhon O. Giraldo and Dr. Leo Kharin at Dentistry By Design in Andover, MA. Call (978) 475-5333 to speak with an associate about your appointment today!


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There are many people who tell you to look to the stars and cosmic universe to decipher when Jesus will come.
Joel 2:10
Before them the earth shakes,
the heavens tremble,
the sun and moon are darkened,
and the stars no longer shine.
So they ask you to look at blood moons and eclipses.
Let's look at the verse in its context.
Joel 2:2-11
a day of darkness and gloom,
a day of clouds and blackness.
Like dawn spreading across the mountains
a large and mighty ARMY comes,
such as never was in ancient times
nor ever will be in ages to come.
Before them fire devours,
behind them a flame blazes.
Before them the land is like the garden of Eden,
behind them, a desert waste —
nothing escapes them.
They have the appearance of horses;
they gallop along like cavalry.
With a noise like that of chariots
they leap over the mountaintops,
like a crackling fire consuming stubble,
like a mighty ARMY drawn up for battle.
At the sight of them, nations are in anguish;
every face turns pale.
They charge like warriors;
they scale walls like SOLDIERS.
They all MARCH in line,
not swerving from their course.
They do not jostle each other;
each MARCHES straight ahead.
They plunge through defenses
without breaking ranks.
They rush upon the city;
they run along the wall.
They climb into the houses;
like thieves they enter through the windows.
Before them the earth shakes,
the heavens tremble,
the sun and moon are darkened,
and the stars no longer shine.
The Lord thunders
at the head of his ARMY;
his forces are beyond number,
and mighty is the ARMY that obeys his command.
The day of the Lord is great;
it is dreadful.
Who can endure it?
Rend Your Heart
The context there is speaking about the coming of an ARMY. Not cosmic signs.
In fact this is what Jesus said here.
Matthew 24:15-16
"So when you see standing in the holy place 'the abomination that causes desolation,' spoken of through the prophet Daniel—let the reader understand— then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.
What people may not know is that Luke actually defines what this ABOMINATION is about.
Luke 21:20
"When you see Jerusalem being surrounded by armies, you will know that its desolation is near."
A GENTILE ARMY inside the holy grounds of Jerusalem. Hence an abomination.
Now some of you may then argue that this is the Chinese army.
So. Let us now turn to the same chapter in Joel again.
Do you see this statement?
Joel 2:2
a day of darkness and gloom,
a day of clouds and blackness.
Like dawn spreading across the mountains
a large and mighty army comes,
such as NEVER WAS in ancient times
NOR EVER WILL BE in ages to come.
Sounds familiar?
That's because it was something Jesus said when he was talking about the sun moon and stars.
Matthew 24:21
For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world UNTIL NOW —and never to be equaled again.
Now notice Jesus added the words "UNTIL NOW". Jesus actually said it was his generation that would observe these things.
Matthew 24:34
Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened.
So. The army which would cause the fall of the sun moon and stars was the Roman army in AD70.
It's over.
There is not going to be anymore end of the world or falling of stars.
Start living.

subset: commoncrawl


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Thank you to all our members who have donated during our winter fundraising campaign! If you haven't yet made a donation, we still need your help. Tomorrow is the last day to make a 2016 tax deductible donation. Please take a moment to contribute online at www.REEF.org/donate, mail your donation to REEF at PO Box 370246, Key Largo, FL 33037, or call us at 305-852-0030. Donors giving $250 or more will receive a limited edition, signed and numbered Paul Humann print featuring two Mandarinfish.
Over the last month, we have highlighted how REEF continues to inspire people around the world to cherish and protect our marine resources. From providing hands-on learning experiences for future generations to protecting important species like Nassau Grouper and fighting invasive species like lionfish, REEF remains dedicated to marine conservation. It has never been more important to ensure that we protect our oceans by promoting citizen science and environmental education.
From all of us at REEF, thank you for your support in 2016! We wish you a very happy new year, and hope you continue to join us on our adventures in 2017.


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Abigail Smith Adams – USA (1744 – 1818)
Abigail Adams (née Smith) (November 11, 1744 – October 28, 1818) was the wife of John Adams, the second President of the United States, and mother of John Quincy Adams, the sixth, and is regarded as the first Second Lady of the United States and the second First Lady of the United States though the terms were not coined until after her death. Adams is remembered for the many letters she wrote to her husband while he stayed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, during the Continental Congresses. John Adams frequently sought the advice of his wife on many matters, and their letters are filled with intellectual discussions on government and politics. The letters are invaluable eyewitness accounts of the Revolutionary War home front as well as excellent sources of political commentary … (full long text).
Find also her bio and picture: on First Ladies; on library thinkquest; on Famous-People.info; on American Picture Links.Com; on NNDB; on about.com; on East Buchanan Community Schools; on picture History; on emonety.pl; on USinfo.state.gov/in an asian language.
Find her also on The Adams Papers; on uk.ask.com; on alibris; on Google Book-search; on Google Scholar-search; on Google Group-search; on Google Blog-search.
She is named as Better World Heroe.
Abigail Smith Adams – USA (1744 – 1818)
Abigdail's Letters on Harvard University Press; on Abigail Adams letters for the years 1761 thru 1816; 0n The electronic archive;on amazon; as a Google download-book: The Book of Abigail and John, By John Adams, L. H. Butterfield, Marc Friedlaender, Mary-Jo Kline, 2002, 411 pages; on A Love Letter from Abigail Adams to John Adams; … (and much more by Google-search result and by Googles Image results for Abigdail Adams letters).
Video-search on YouTube by Abigdail Adams letters. Watch also the video.
LETTERS BETWEEN ABIGAIL ADAMS AND HER HUSBAND JOHN ADAMS, an excerpt: … She wrote in one of them:
- … "Remember, all men would be tyrants if they could. If particular care and attention is not paid to the ladies, we are determined to foment a rebellion, and will not hold ourselves bound by any laws in which we have no voice or representation.
- "That your sex are naturally tyrannical is a truth so thoroughly established as to admit of no dispute; but such of you as wish to be happy willingly give up – the harsh tide of master for the more tender and endearing one of friend.
- "Why, then, not put it out of the power of the vicious and the lawless to use us with cruelty and indignity with impunity?
- "Men of sense in all ages abhor those customs which treat us only as the (servants) of your sex; regard us then as being placed by Providence under your protection, and in imitation of the Supreme Being make use of that power only for our happiness." (full text).
She wrote:
- Great necessities call out great virtues.
- EDUCATION: Learning is not attained by chance. It must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence.
- LEADERSHIP: Great necessities call forth great leaders.
- PERSEVERANCE: "Great difficulties may be surmounted by patience and perseverance."
- WOMEN: If particular care and attention is not paid to the ladies, we are determined to foment a rebellion, and will not hold ourselves bound by any laws in which we have no voice or representation … and: "If we mean to have heroes, statesmen and philosophers, we should have learned women" (all picked up on Better World Heroes … (with LINKS FOR MORE INFORMATION).
- I begin to think, that a calm is not desirable in any situation in life. … Man was made for action and for bustle too, I believe (letter to her sister, Mary Smith Cranch, 1784).
- … many on my dearest friend.
- … I have sometimes been ready to think that the passion for Liberty cannot be Eaquelly Strong in the Breasts of those who have been accustomed to deprive their fellow Creatures of theirs. Of this I am certain that it is not founded upon that generous and christian principal of doing to others as we would that others should do unto us … (full text).
- Find 3 quotations in The Oxford Dictionary of Political Quotations.
Her political viewpoints: She said also: … remember the ladies, and be more generous and favorable to them than your ancestors. Do not put such unlimited power into the hands of the Husbands. Remember all Men would be tyrants if they could. If particular care and attention is not paid to the Ladies we are determined to foment a Rebellion, and will not hold ourselves bound by any Laws in which we have no voice, or Representation". John declined Abigail's "extraordinary code of laws," but acknowledged to Abigail, "We have only the name of masters, and rather than give up this, which would completely subject us to the despotism of the petticoat, I hope General Washington and all our brave heroes would fight". (wikipedia /women's rights).
… Often, Abigail spoke up for married women's property rights and more opportunities for women, particularly in education. She believed that women should not submit to laws clearly not made in their interest. Women should not content themselves with the role of being decorous companions to their husbands. They should educate themselves and be recognized for their intellectual capabilities, for their ability to shoulder responsibilities of managing household, family, and financial affairs, and for their capacity morally to guide and influence the lives of their children and husbands. Although she did not insist on full female enfranchisement, in her celebrated letter of March, 1776, she exhorted her husband to "remember the Ladies, and be more generous and favorable to them than your ancestors. Do not put such unlimited power into the hands of the Husbands … (full text).
More on women's life conditions in these days: During the (American) Revolutionary War, women applied the traditional skills they learned as homemakers to espionage work. Both the British and American armies recruited housewives and young girls as cooks and maids. With their almost unrestricted access to soldiers' campsites, these women could eavesdrop on conversations about troop movements, leadership changes, and equipment shortages and deliveries without raising suspicion. Often at great peril, they secretly provided this critical intelligence data to military and civilian leaders. Some reported directly to General Washington, who came to highly value the information he received from these "agents in place" … (Abigail Adams is pictured on this site as an exemple, without a text refering to her) … (full text).
More about her bio:
- … The letters she exchanged with John and other family members reveal her cares and worries, her frank opinions and advice, and give an extraordinary view of civilian life during the Revolution. She also took an active interest in the political events of her day; in her letter to John on March 31, 1776, she made one of the earliest known arguments for women's political rights in U.S. history … (full text).
- As wife of the first Vice President, Abigail became a good friend to Mrs. Washington and a valued help in official entertaining, drawing on her experience of courts and society abroad. After 1791, however, poor health forced her to spend as much time as possible in Quincy. Illness or trouble found her resolute; as she once declared, she would "not forget the blessings which sweeten life" … The Adamses retired to Quincy in 1801, and for 17 years enjoyed the companionship that public life had long denied them. Abigail died in 1818, and is buried beside her husband in United First Parish Church. She leaves her country a most remarkable record as patriot and First Lady, wife of one President and mother of another … (full text).
- Abigail Adams (November 11, 1744-October 28, 1818) advocated and modeled an expanded role for women in public affairs during the formative days of the United States. Married to John Adams, she was an invaluable partner to him as he developed his political career, culminating in the presidency of the United States. She left a voluminous correspondence, providing information on everyday life and insight into the activities in the corridors of power during her time. Her letters show her to have been a woman of keen intelligence, resourceful, competent, self-sufficient, willful, vivacious, and opinionated—a formidable force. Her writing reveals a dedication to principle, a commitment to rights for women and for African-Americans, fierce partisanship in matters of her husband's and her family's interest, and an irreverent sense of humor … (full text).
- Abigail Adams was the daughter of William Smith, a minister of a Congregational church at Weymouth, in the colony of Massachusetts Bay; and of Elizabeth Quincy, a daughter of Col. John Quincy, the proprietor of Mount Wollaston. This beautiful spot, about seven miles from Boston, was settled by Thomas Wollaston and thirty of his associates in 1625, five years before that of the Massachusetts Colony. This settlement was broken up by Governor Winthrop, in the summer of 1630, shortly after his landing; and in 1634 was made part of Boston, and the land granted to William Coddington. This estate descended in a direct line till it became the property of William Smith, the father of Abigail Adams, and has been the residence and birthplace of the Adams family to the present day … (full text).
- Abigail was alone at home for ten years while Mr. Adams was away as a delegate to the Continental Congress and later on diplomatic business in Europe. Over time Abigail Adams became extensively acquainted with the best English literature, and wrote in a terse, vigorous and often elegant style … (full text).
- ABIGAIL SAILED on June 20, 1784. At age thirty-nine, having never been away from either her home or those of close relatives for more than a night or two in all her life, she, Nabby [her daughter Abigail], their two servants, and a cow went on board the Active at Rowe's Wharf, and with a "fine wind" were quickly under way. Among the few other passengers, as Abigail recorded, were a Colonel Norton from Martha's Vineyard, a Dr. Clark, a Mr. Foster, a Mr. Spear, a "haughty Scotchman" named Green, and one other woman whose name happened also to be Adams. No sooner had the ship passed the Boston lighthouse into rougher water than they were all horribly seasick. And so it was to be for days, everyone tossed about in cramped, "excessive disagreeable" quarters together … (full text).
- Like other women of the time, Abigail lacked formal education, but her curiosity spurred her keen intelligence. She was an avid reader. Reading created a bond between her and young John Adams, a Harvard graduate, and they were married in 1764 … (full text).
- … Most Americans, driven by emotion, were angry with Adams for defending the hated "redcoats," but throughout the ordeal Abigail supported her husband's decision. In the end, Adams was proven correct and all nine of the men were acquitted of the murder charges. Despite diffusing of this crisis, far greater ones were destined to be part of the course of events in the colonies … (full long text).
Abigail Adams House, a painting;
American Tradition-First Lady-Gown Series;
the book: The Adams Women, Abigail and Louisa Adams, Their Sisters and Daughters, by Paul C. Nagel;
the book: Adams Family Correspondence, Volumes 1 and 2, December 1761 – March 1778;
Watch the video: John Adams, A Life in Letters, 3.33 min, April 22, 2008
Categories on wikipedia:


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This 2014 Tuscan style home is a great example of executive style living at it's finest. Beautifully designed and executed, no expense was spared in regards to quality of materials and craftsmanship on a level not normally found in this price range. The fabulous open floor plan is perfect for entertaining and the wonderfully appointed kitchen is a gourmet chefs delight. Amenities include a preparation kitchen, wet bar, an office/library, loft, 4 bedroom suites, generous use of stone and other high quality materials, and a gorgeous wrought iron staircase. Additional amenities include lots of custom detailing and moldings through-out, a monitored security system with cameras, central vacuum, double iron door entry and electric gate, paver driveway, plus much more!
Auto Driveway Gate, Direct Garage Access, Driveway - Pavers, Garage - Single Door, Garage Door Opener, Gated
City Lights View, Mountain View, Neighborhood
Built-Ins, Coffered Ceiling(s), Crown Moldings, High Ceilings (9 Feet+), Open Floor Plan, Pantry, Recessed Lighting, Stone Counters, Two Story Ceilings, Vacuum Central, Wainscoting, Wet Bar, Wired for Sound, Wired for Data
Gas Dryer Hookup, 6 Burner Stove, Built In Range, Dishwasher, Electric Oven, Energy Star Water Heater, Garbage Disposal, Gas Range, Gas Water Heater, Microwave, Refrigerator, Tankless Water Heater
Based on information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. as of March 6th, 2019 at 5:36pm PST. This information is for your personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties you may be interested in purchasing. Display of MLS data is usually deemed reliable but is NOT guaranteed accurate by the MLS. Buyers are responsible for verifying the accuracy of all information and should investigate the data themselves or retain appropriate professionals. Information from sources other than the Listing Agent may have been included in the MLS data. Unless otherwise specified in writing, Broker/Agent has not and will not verify any information obtained from other sources. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent.


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Obama Administration
It seems the former Acting CIA Director John McLaughlin is praising the "Deep State" and it's a role in the current mess with have with the impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump.
McLaughlin was referring to the fact that an intelligence officer filed the whistleblower complaint about President Trump's July call with Ukraine, in which there was a conversation that the Democrats have described as showing Trump inappropriately asked a foreign country to interfere in the 2020 elections by investigating his political rival.
The former intelligence official spoke at an event hosted by George Mason University, joined by former Deputy FBI Director Andrew McCabe and former CIA Director John Brennan. It should be noted that both of whom have been critical of the president.
Also to be pointed out is that this whole impeachment inquiry is just signally more and more every day that the conspiracy theories of a"Deep State" are more likely than ever, confirming Trump's concerns and Tweets.
"There is something unique you have to agree that now that the impeachment inquiry is underway, sparked by a complaint from someone within the intelligence community, it feeds the president's concern, an often-used term about a 'deep state' being there to take him out,"
Stated by CBS reporter Margaret Brennan
"Well, you know, thank God for the 'deep state',"
McLaughlin responded, provoking laughter and applause.
He went on to praise the intelligence community.
"This is the institution within the U.S. government — that with all of its flaws, and it makes mistakes — is institutionally committed to objectivity and telling the truth,"
"It is one of the few institutions in Washington that is not in a chain of command that makes or implements policy. Its whole job is to speak the truth — it's engraved in marble in the lobby."
"With all of the people who knew what was going on here, it took an intelligence officer to step forward and say something about it, which was the trigger that then unleashed everything else,"
These comments came just before the House voted to approve a resolution for ground rules in the Democrats' impeachment inquiry into Trump.
Opinion: Looking into this is that this was all over the fact that Trump just wanted to know why Biden was able to pressure Ukraine into dropping a legal case and inquiry into Biden's son. It's all a bit odd that our President Trump would be getting impeached over the exact thing that Joe Biden actually did when all Trump did was ask questions. More Double Standards of course! What do you think? Share and leave comments
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Past presidents generally do not make public statements criticizing sitting presidents, but former President Barack Obama and his first lady Michelle ostensibly did so Saturday.
The veiled shots at President Donald Trump's attacks on the poorest parts of Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md., district in Baltimore came via Twitter.
"I've always been proud of what this team accomplished during my administration. But more than what we did, I'm proud of how they're continuing to fight for an America that's better."
He linked to a July 26 op-ed in The Washington Post, headlined "We are African Americans, we are patriots, and we refuse to sit idly by," and signed by 149 African Americans who served in the Obama administration.
Former first lady Michelle also tweeted Saturday a video of a Baltimore dance routine done to her famed motto "when they go low, we go high":
"On #NationalDanceDay, I'm shouting out the Lethal Ladies, a Baltimore STEP team who I saw perform back in 2017. I'm so proud of you all — and everyone who's dancing today!"
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Then you'll need to put the wok on high heat. Today woks are created with flat bottoms along with the ancient rounded bottom types. Lately, the wok was refined and modified to fit the requirements of the modern-day cook. Should you need to get a flat bottomed wok for this sort of stove, I suggest that you get a cast iron wok.
A The first thing which you should do is to look at your wok is really one which should be seasoned, as it is only true for woks that aren't treated. Woks come in a number of sizes and the size of wok you should choose will mainly be based on the kind of stove which you have and the quantity of food that you're planning to prepare. The 14 wok is large enough to earn a family dinner, but can likewise be employed by individuals. This wok is ancient and has existed since an extremely long moment. Buying a wok can seem to be an easy procedure, but browsing through the very best wok reviews can help you make a purchase that won't provide you buyer's remorse. Modern-day day woks are amazingly good and will present your meals the perfect sear as a consequence of of its thickness.
Carbon Steel Wok – the Story
Should youn't already have a wok, or whether you're thinking about upgrading, you may think about buying one of many wok kits in the marketplace. Woks are supposed to be used at quite higher heat, which may warp an inexpensive pan (this is a death knell for those who have a flat-top stove). Larger woks frequently have a loop handle too.
The Awful Secret of Carbon Steel Wok
You'll know your Wok is prepared for use once it appears almost wet whenever you heat this up. Your wok is now prepared to use. An excellent wok is among the most flexible pans in the kitchen.
To receive your wok looking this way isn't hard if you start out with the correct sort of wok. This wok has to be seasoned before use. The standard woks are produced with carbon steel.
Carbon Steel Wok and Carbon Steel Wok – The Perfect Combination
With this moment, you can no longer should re-season your wok after every cleaning. Traditionally, woks were produced of cast iron, but today they are created of numerous materials. Whenever you're handling an extremely hot wok and oil, there's always potential for accident.
The 30-Second Trick for Carbon Steel Wok
For woks, you might want to have a different strategy. At the start, your wok will require a bit more attention and attention. Since woks should work on extremely higher heat, you must place a wok ring around the burner. Now, set the wok over the ring and be sure that the wok is over the burner. After you have found your cooking wok, it's important to take appropriate care of it. Most individuals would be surprised to learn there are actually many different kinds of the cooking wok available.


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pectrum Consultants Group is located in western Pennsylvania, with associates spread throughout the mid-Atlantic and southern United States. We have been conducting vehicle crash analysis since 1984.
Founded by Rick Varner, Spectrum has been from the beginning a company that aims to serve its clients through personal contact. We take pride in maintaining contact with each client for the duration of the case, because we believe in and are committed to serving you.
Our staff has a reputation for excellence in all areas of vehicle crash analysis: auto, commercial vehicle, motorcycle, pedestrian, nighttime, and all the services listed on our services page. We offer other, miscellaneous services which may not be listed on our website. Call or contact us for more information.
We have also authored Commercial Vehicle Accident Reconstruction and Investigation, a textbook on accident reconstruction published by Lawyers and Judges Publishing.
If you need to speak to one of our associates regarding a case, please give us a call at (814) 242-4647 for a free consultation. You may also simply fill out our contact form.
Rick Varner
Commercial Vehicle Specialist
Dennis McGee
Collision Specialist
Rick Pollino
Forensic Mechanic
John Beegle
Collision Specialist
Jeff White
Forensic Mechanic
Bob Geibfried
Spectrum Consultants
P.O. Box 40
Sidman, PA 15955
Phone: (814) 242-4647
Fax: (814) 487-4812


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A Trusted Local Roofing Company Since 1964
R. Campbell Roofing has been providing quality residential and commercial roofing services in Dayton, Cincinnati, Southeast Indiana and Northern Kentucky since 1964. We're a family-owned and -operated business with decades of experience under our belts. As a third-generation local roofing company, we have built our excellent reputation on our expertise within the industry – just check our A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
We're Licensed & Certified for Your Peace of Mind
Our dedication to quality has earned R. Campbell Roofing several professional memberships, including:
- National Roofing Contractors Association
- Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association
- Greater Dayton Apartment Association
Products We Love from Manufacturers We Trust
The manufacturers we've partnered with matter. Why? Because the quality of their products affects the quality of our workmanship and the quality of your home. That's why R. Campbell Roofing is proud to represent the following manufacturers who are highly reputable and celebrated for their outstanding products:
- Certified Applicators
- Building Products
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- CertainTeed
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- Performance Roof Systems
Military & First Responder Discounts
Giving back to those who give to us is what we're all about at R. Campbell Roofing. For your convenience, we offer military, first responder, police and firefighter discounts. Contact one of our representatives to learn more about these special offerings.
Contact R. Campbell Roofing Today!
If you're looking for a reliable, trustworthy and efficient contractor, look no further than
R. Campbell Roofing, southern Ohio's trusted local roofing company. Whether you need help with a small task or a larger project, we're here to help by providing our specialized roofing and remodeling services. We offer 24/7 emergency service repair when you need it most. Give us a call at (937) 866-1371 or fill out our online form to schedule your free estimate.


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- Price $22,500.00
- Year: 1960
- Case: OHSC
This is a very special guitar. It is an original ES-355 with factory stop tailpiece and PAFs, with the Varitone removed and converted to mono electronics. It has been refretted, and inlaid at the 20th fret are the initials "CW," of its previous owner, the late Charley Wirz. Charley was the original owner of Charley's Guitar Shop in Dallas, and one of the founders of the Dallas Guitar Show in 1978. This was his favorite guitar. Really vibey, with tons of tone and soul. Comes with original 5-latch brown Lifton hard case. A superb-playing guitar that is very rare – again, one of only 20 ES-355s with factory stop tailpiece made between 1958-1963. One only, here it is! From my personal collection.
Click below to enlarge:


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This is the last of the three recipes on my platter that I took to Natalie's house last Monday. I have posted a roasted tomato recipe before, but that style was to serve more as a side dish. This method is to create a dipping appetizer served with a toasted sliced baguette or torn from the loaf of a fresh baguette (to soak up the juice and oil). It is super easy and incredibly delish. By far, it was the favorite of the three last Monday.
I buy Campari tomatoes at Costco because they tend to be the ones that are consistently ripe through and through regardless of the time of year. They are small and perfect for salads, especially if, like me, you are not a fan of cherry or grape tomatoes.
Roasted Tomato Appetizer
The recipe does not require precise measuring because it all depends on the number of tomatoes you are roasting. I roasted three packages of Campari's (about 45 tomatoes). I wanted to make sure I had plenty because I can snack on this for a week and never get tired of it.
Campari Tomatoes
Olive Oil
Garlic Powder
Dried Oregano
Onion Powder
Fresh Basil (optional)
Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
Wash your tomatoes and then pat dry. Place the tomatoes in a roasting pan that is deep enough to hold the water that comes out of all the tomatoes. Use a paring knife and stab each tomato, so the juice will ooze out versus popping and spraying water. Drizzle a steady stream of a good olive oil over the tomatoes. Next sprinkle with dried oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Place the roasting pan of tomatoes on the center rack of your preheated oven. Set your timer for 3 hours and walk away. Let the oven do its thing. In this situation, these Campari's were pretty watery and created more "juice" than I wanted. So this time after three hours and thirty minutes, I turned the oven to 450 degrees and boiled off most of the juice leaving a thin layer that covered the bottom of the pan.
Because I had some fresh basil, I then decided to through that in once the pan was pulled from the oven. It is not needed, but it added a fragrant basil accent. I put the tomatoes in an airtight plastic container and refrigerated them to store.
As they chill, they will lose the bright red color, but the flavor remains in tact. It is best to serve at room temperature for maximum flavor.
Download the Recipe Here: Roasted Tomato Appetizer
I close this post with a couple of images of my niece-dog playing in her cooling pool that I got for her to jump in after our long, hot walks. She loves it.
That is all for now. Be safe those in the path of Irma, Jose & Katia!


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Michelle began her career in Real Estate in 2008 as a Brokers Assistant.
As a Brokers Assistant she gained knowledge and experience of the Real Estate industry that would lead her to become a licensed Real Estate Agent herself. Michelle became licensed in 2011 and continued as a Brokers Assistant until mid 2012.
She then moved into Property Management where she managed 500+ properties. During her 3 years in Property Management Michelle learned what it takes to provide the professionalism, loyalty and honesty her home owners, and all clients deserve. Working with so many home owners, buyers and tenants over the years gave Michelle a truly unique experience of the Real Estate industry.
Her past clients have posted reviews of Michelle giving her the level of service of 5 stars. Some of the words used to describe her representation of them are, fabulous, outstanding, knowledgeable, excellent, honest, reliable and easily available.
In September of 2017 Michelle moved her license to Palm Springs, ready to expand her level of knowledge in Real Estate into the Coachella Valley. So if you are looking to buy or sell in Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Morongo Valley, Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree or Twentynine Palms, look no further. You have found the Real Estate Agent who can help you unlock the key to all your Real Estate dreams! Now with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties in Palm Springs and Palm Springs Home Team.
Residential Single Family – My residential single family services connect buyers with sellers every day, and I do it with professionalism and a total dedication to my clients. This property type is the majority of my market transactions, but by far not the only one in which I have expertise.
Condominiums – While condominiums are residential, they're a very different market focus, and I am an expert in evaluating condos and helping buyers and sellers to cope with the special financing and homeowner concerns for this property type.
Multi–family – Investors are great clients for me. Multi–family properties are a very unique market. The detailed return on investment and valuation calculations investors need to evaluate properties for rental are second nature to me.
Commercial – Whether it's a shopping mall, a small office building or a restaurant space, I'm your commercial property specialist. Contact me for your commercial property needs in the 29 Palms, Desert Hot Springs, Joshua Tree, Landers, Morongo Valley, North Palm Springs, Pioneertown, and Yucca Valley real estate markets.
Vacant Land – Land is a very special property class. It's relatively easy to show a gourmet cook a wonderful commercial kitchen in a home and see their eyes light up. It's more of a challenge to help a buyer or seller to realize the potential in a piece of land. I'm the best at it in the 29 Palms, Desert Hot Springs, Joshua Tree, Landers, Morongo Valley, North Palm Springs, Pioneertown, and Yucca Valley real estate markets.
Call me at 760.668.5733 or email me to start a discussion of your needs. Or, fill out this quick form and tell me about your property interests and an overview of your needs.


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Raita Honjou (本庄雷太 Honjou Raita?, Born September 17, 1972) is a well-known doujin artist, illustrator and character designer who has illustrated some cards for the social game, Valkyria Chronicles Duel. He is mostly known for his work on Valkyria Chronicles and Zettai Junpaku: Mahou Shoujo. Raita has also been credited with the creation of Katawa Shoujo, the concept of which was based off his sketch.
Illustrated Cards
External Links
- Official Website [NSFW]
- Pixiv [NSFW]
- Twitter [NSFW]
|Jū Ayakura | Raita Honjou | Tea | Yuichi Murakami
Community content is available under CC-BY-SA unless otherwise noted.


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Satellite Master Conference
Berlin, Ministry of Transport. Satellite Master Conference 2014.
Alessandro Cantore, Ceo and founder of Greenspider, presents Smart Mobility solution using the state-of-art satellite technology.
On 23-24 October 2014, the first Satellite Masters Conference brought together more than 300 participants from 40 counties, connecting high-level representatives from leading institutions and industry with start-ups and award-winning entrepreneurs.
Along with ESA space solutions, the conference focused on entrepreneurial spirit and the impact space technologies have on non-space sectors.
The event also capped off the joint Awards Ceremony of Europe's major innovation competitions for space applications - the European Satellite Navigation Competition and Copernicus Masters.


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The Basics of Good T-SQL & AM SLpyl Coding Style
What is SQL: SQL is a language used in programming to manage and connect the database with the website management system.
Any professional coder knows that AM SLpyl Code must work properly and efficiently. That's not enough though. Unless you are working alone, have perfect memory and plan to never change job, then you need to comment and document your code, it must be inherently readable, well laid out, use informative and obvious names, and it must be robust and resilient; written defensively. It must not rely on deprecated features of SQL Server, or assume particular database settings. Robert Sheldon starts a series of articles that explains the basics.
The series so far:
- The Basics of Good T-SQL Coding Style
- The Basics of Good T-SQL Coding Style – Part 2: Defining Database Objects
- The Basics of Good T-SQL Coding Style – Part 3: Querying and Manipulating Data
- The Basics of Good T-SQL Coding Style – Part 4: Performance
Everyone has an opinion when it comes to writing T-SQL code, whether talking about formatting, variable assignments, system functions, ANSI standards, or any number of issues. And those opinions can vary far and wide, as evidenced by the multitude of forum postings and heated article comments. Despite these differences, most would agree that turning out readable and high-performing code is the best solution for everyone. The trick, of course, is getting consensus on how to achieve that goal.
Often a good place to start within an organization is to create a set of coding standards that T-SQL developers can help to define and then reference when building their solutions. In this way, the standards provide a focal point for ironing out differences and working toward a common purpose.
To help with this process, this article and the ones to follow will look at various considerations to take into account when trying to formulate T-SQL standards in your organization. The series will cover such topics as readability, accuracy, performance, standardization, and other factors. The series in not intended as a prescriptive how-to list that dictates what approaches you should take, but rather as a set of guidelines for evaluating the types of issues you should address when coming up with your own approach to T-SQL coding.
Because this is the first article in the series, I focus on general considerations that can apply to your code regardless of the types of T-SQL statements you're defining, covering such issues as formatting, system functions, deprecated language elements, and user-defined variables. In the articles to follow, I'll go deeper into the specifics of defining database objects and querying SQL Server data. With that in mind, let's get started.
Readability and other oddities
A great number of articles have been written about T-SQL formatting, and for good reason. At some point, most code will need to be revisited, and a lot of time can be wasted just trying to understand what is going on, let alone identify potential problems. The sloppier the formatting, the more difficult it is to decipher and troubleshoot the code.
Take, for example, the following USE and SELECT statements, which are written in all lowercase, with no line breaks or spaces except where required:
use adventureworks2014
select emp.businessentityid empid,psn.firstname,psn.lastname,emp.sickleavehours sickleave,emp.nationalidnumber natid,emp.JobTitle from humanresources.employee emp inner join person.person psn on emp.businessentityid=psn.businessentityid where emp.jobtitle='production technician – wc60' or emp.jobtitle='production technician – wc50' order by emp.JobTitle desc,EmpID asc
By default, SQL Server is configured with a case-insensitive collation, so there is no reason you can't take this approach, or take an approach similar to the next example, which uses all uppercase characters:
Again, this is perfectly permissible. It's just unreadable. Imagine having to review a script that contains hundreds of lines of such code. Even code that is not nearly this bad can present challenges if it is inconsistent and put together haphazardly. But look at what happens when we break the SELECT statement into multiple lines, indent certain elements, make keywords all uppercase, and add a comment to explain the statement:
Retrieves data about the Production Technician
employees, WC60 and WC50.
USE AdventureWorks2014;
SELECT emp.BusinessEntityID AS EmpID,
emp.SickLeaveHours AS SickLeave,
emp.NationalIDNumber AS NatID,
FROM HumanResources.Employee AS emp
INNER JOIN Person.Person AS psn
ON emp.BusinessEntityID = psn.BusinessEntityID
WHERE (emp.JobTitle = 'Production Technician – WC60')
OR (emp.JobTitle = 'Production Technician – WC50')
ORDER BY emp.JobTitle DESC, EmpID ASC;
Certainly it would be a lot easier to review code like this than what we saw in the proceeding examples. The careful use of line breaks, spaces, capitalization, and indentation makes it infinitely easier to review T-SQL code, especially when everyone is following the same standards.
But before we go further—and I get slammed with a horde of comments about the "proper" way to format code—let me make it clear that I am not advocating you follow the formatting I have used here, or any particular formatting styles for that matter. Issues such as capitalization and indentation have been discussed and argued in countless places, with opinions ranging across the spectrum of database developers.
I am merely making the point that all T-SQL should be consistently and carefully formatted so it is readable and understandable by everyone who reviews it. To this end, you and your team should take into account a wide range of factors, such as capitalization, indentation, and the judicious use of line breaks.
When deciding how to address such issues, you'll have to weigh each one carefully because there are often good arguments for and against a particularly convention or approach (along with an endless stream of sentiments). Just be sure you take into account all those niggling little details, such as whether to add a space on either side of a comparison operator, when and how to indent, or where to place commas in the select list. But be prepared for the ensuing battles.
With that said, let's move onto comments, which provide a simple and effective mechanism for describing what's going on in the code, making the code easier to understand, review, and troubleshoot. Carefully placed comments can save everyone a heap of time and might even help to point out inconsistencies or reveal other potential problems. Even if you're reviewing your own code, you'll appreciate the careful documentation, especially if you wrote that code several years earlier.
Related to this, you should also consider whether to include extended proprieties when creating database objects and, if so, when and how to use them. Extended properties can help to provide further insights into the database and make it easier to document the database and its components.
Another way to make your code easier to understand is to use parentheses when appropriate. In the preceding example, I added parentheses to the WHERE clause to demonstrate this concept. Although they're really not necessary in this case, they serve as a reminder, just like the comment. Parentheses can help clarify a statement's logic to make code reviews faster and easier and to ensure that you're implementing the correct logic in your conditional clauses.
Also be aware that it is generally considered a best practice to terminate your statements with the semicolon. Although SQL Server does not require the semicolon in most cases, Microsoft has been threatening that in an eventual release, the semicolon will become mandatory. It has been part of the ANSI standards for quite a while now.
You should also try to avoid the use of GOTO commands, which can make code difficult to review, especially if there is a lot of code and many instances of the command.
Again, the goal is to come up with a way to consistently format and present your T-SQL code so it is easy to read and understand and troubleshoot. How you get there is up to you and your team, but the sooner you get those standards in place, the better for everyone.
For a good perspective on issues related to formatting—and T-SQL coding in general—you might want to check out some of Joe Celko's articles, starting with Formatting SQL Code – Part the Second. He often explains the logic and history behand his reasoning, which can help to inform your decisions, even if you decide to go a different route.
Getting your code right
Even more important than how you format your code is getting it right, and that includes making sure you're using the most current T-SQL elements and you're using them correctly. Like it's ANSI counterpart, T-SQL is an evolving language, so you must be diligent to ensure you're not using outdated or inappropriate syntax.
An often cited example of stale code is a join based on pre-ANSI SQL-92 standards, in which the join condition is defined in the WHERE clause, as shown in the following example:
SELECT emp.BusinessEntityID AS EmpID,
emp.NationalIDNumber AS NatID
FROM HumanResources.Employee emp,
Person.Person psn
WHERE emp.BusinessEntityID = psn.BusinessEntityID
AND emp.JobTitle = 'Production Technician – WC60';
Although SQL Server still supports this approach, the general consensus among the database gurus is that we should all be sticking with the newer model, which is to include the join condition in the FROM clause:
SELECT emp.BusinessEntityID AS EmpID,
emp.NationalIDNumber AS NatID
FROM HumanResources.Employee emp
INNER JOIN Person.Person psn
ON emp.BusinessEntityID = psn.BusinessEntityID
WHERE emp.JobTitle = 'Production Technician – WC60';
A good reason for taking the second approach is readability. It is much easier to pick out the join condition if it is not buried in the WHERE clause with several other conditions.
The second approach has another advantage. If you forget to include the join condition in either statement, the first example returns a cross join, which can include an enormous amount of data, whereas the second statement returns an error, letting you know that something is amiss.
Another example of outdated code can sometimes be seen when a T-SQL statement includes a TOPexpression. In the past, you would specify the numeric expression without parentheses, as in the following example:
SELECT TOP 10 Title, FirstName, LastName
FROM Person.Person;
Although this still works in SQL Server, the correct syntax is now to include the parentheses:
SELECT TOP(10) Title, FirstName, LastName
FROM Person.Person;
Although you can use either approach, there's no telling when and if Microsoft might pull the plug on the first one.
A database team must be proactive when it comes to outdated code. Many T-SQL and ANSI SQL elements have been deprecated over the years or are slated for deprecation at some point in the future. Chances are good you have deprecated elements lurking somewhere in your production code, given how the standards are always changing. For example, in SQL Server 2016, the SET ROWCOUNToption has been deprecated for INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE statements. So too have the data types text, ntext, and image. Even the CREATE DEFAULT and DROP DEFAULT statements are (finally) approaching their sunset years.
When you're defining your coding standards, be sure to specify how to handle deprecated elements. It's easy enough to say that developers should avoid them, but it is seldom that simple, so you might want to also explain when and how they should be removed when discovered. Fortunately, Microsoft provides details about what's being deprecated with each SQL Server release. You'll find a list of the latest items in Deprecated Database Engine Features in SQL Server 2016.
Now let's look at another example of questionable code. The following select statement does something no developer should do—use a comparison operator (not equal) against a NULL value:
SELECT Title, FirstName, LastName
FROM Person.Person
WHERE Title <> NULL;
Although the table includes rows with a Title value of NULL, this statement returns no rows nor does it return an error. If you're not careful, you could end up with incorrect results without realizing there's a problem. For this reason, you should avoid this type of construct and instead use the IS NULL or ISNOT NULL operator to return the correct rows, as in the next SELECT statement:
SELECT Title, FirstName, LastName
FROM Person.Person
WHERE Title IS NOT NULL;
Of course, this is only one example of the many places developers can run into issues when working with NULL values. If you want to learn about other pitfalls, check out my article How to Get NULLs Horribly Wrong in SQL Server. You might want to include the more common pitfalls in your coding standards to help developers along.
You will also need to decide about such issues as column alias assignments. One approach often taken is to specify the alias first, followed by an equal sign, as shown in the following example:
SELECT EmpID = emp.BusinessEntityID,
NatID = emp.NationalIDNumber
FROM HumanResources.Employee emp
INNER JOIN Person.Person psn
ON emp.BusinessEntityID = psn.BusinessEntityID
WHERE emp.JobTitle = 'Production Technician – WC60';
Another approach is to add the alias at the end, separated by the optional AS keyword:
SELECT emp.BusinessEntityID AS EmpID,
emp.NationalIDNumber AS NatID
FROM HumanResources.Employee emp
INNER JOIN Person.Person psn
ON emp.BusinessEntityID = psn.BusinessEntityID
WHERE emp.JobTitle = 'Production Technician – WC60';
Proponents of the first approach claim that it is more readable, which is often true, especially when you have a lot of columns with aliases. However, proponents of the second approach also claim better readability, arguing that the first approach can be confused with variable assignments. They also point out that their way is consistent with the ANSI standards and with how table aliases get assigned.
Like numerous T-SQL issues, you will find ample discussion and many, many opinions about this one. You will have to decide what is best for your organization. Just be consistent.
Another issue worth pointing out is the use of undocumented stored procedures. For example, the following SELECT statement uses the sp_mstablespace stored procedure to return the number of rows and amount of space used by the Person table:
EXECUTE sp_mstablespace 'person.person';
The stored procedure currently works great and, like other undocumented procedures, can be quite handy at times. But undocumented procedures do not belong in a production environment. You have no way of knowing when Microsoft will change them or yank them altogether. You could end up with broken code and not even realize it.
There are, of course, all sorts of issues to take into account when standardizing and verifying your code. A big part of the equation is how important it is that your code comply with the ANSI standards. Some would argue that it should always comply with ANSI (at least as much as possible) because it makes the code more portable and familiar among developers who work with different database systems. On the other hand, you might lose important functionality by giving up the proprietary elements. You must decide what is best for your team and organization.
Functional misuse
SQL Server provides a number of system functions for carrying out various operations. As with any statement element, you must ensure that they are being used correctly. A misused function might not return an error, but it can return incorrect results without you realizing what has happened. Or it might return an error, but not in the way you expected or tested for.
For example, the ISNUMERIC function is notorious for returning unpredictable results, which we can demonstrate with the following example:
DECLARE @a TABLE(ColA VARCHAR(10));
INSERT INTO @a VALUES
('abc'), ('123'), ('$456'), ('22:35:27′);
SELECT ColA, CASE
WHEN ISNUMERIC(ColA) = 1
THEN CAST(ColA AS INT)
END AS TestResults
FROM @a;
First, we create a table variable and populate it with different types of values, all passed in as strings. We then use the ISNUMERIC function to test whether a value is numeric. If it is (returns 1), we try to convert it to the INT data type. In this case, however, when the database engine hits the value $456, it baulks and returns the following error message:
Conversion failed when converting the varchar value '$456' to data type int.
The problem is that the ISNUMERIC function will sometimes call a value numeric that cannot be converted to a numeric data type, as with $456. It will even interpret values such as 7e9 and $., as numeric. A better solution is to use the TRY_CONVERT function to test whether a conversion will work before actually trying to convert the value:
DECLARE @a TABLE(ColA VARCHAR(10));
INSERT INTO @a VALUES
('abc'), ('123'), ('$456'), ('22:35:27′);
SELECT ColA, CASE
WHEN TRY_CONVERT(int, ColA) IS NOT NULL
THEN CAST(colA AS INT)
END AS TestResults
FROM @a;
Data conversion in general can be a slippery slope in SQL Server, so you must be on your guard. If you want to know about other ways in which conversions can cause your team big-time headaches, check out my article How to Get SQL Server Data-Conversion Horribly Wrong.
When working with system functions, you'll run into those that can be used to perform similar operations or return similar types of information. For example, you can use either the CAST or CONVERT function to convert a value's data type. The CAST function is part of the ANSI standards but has limited capabilities. The CONVERT function is not part of the standards but provides a number of options for formatting date/time values, although in many cases, it's better to leave the formatting to the application tier. Regardless, you will need to make a decision about their use and how important it is to conform to the ANSI standards.
Another example of interchangeable functions is COUNT and EXISTS, when used to confirm the existence of certain data. For example, the following IF statement checks whether the Person table contains rows that have an EM value in the PersonType column:
IF(SELECT COUNT(*) FROM Person.Person
WHERE PersonType = 'EM') > 0
SELECT FirstName, LastName
FROM Person.Person
WHERE PersonType = 'EM';
Although this statement works just fine, you will see better performance when using the EXISTSfunction, especially for large data sets:
IF EXISTS(SELECT * FROM Person.Person
WHERE PersonType = 'EM')
SELECT FirstName, LastName
FROM Person.Person
WHERE PersonType = 'EM';
Function misuse is not always a function-to-function issue. For example, you might find that using the SCOPE_IDENTITY() function will provide more accurate information than the @@IDENTITYsystem variable, depending on the situation. Although both return the last identity value generated for a table in the current session, the SCOPE_IDENTITY() function applies only to a specific scope, but the @@IDENTITY variable does not, which can make a difference in the reliability of the returned value. For more information about this issue, see the SQL Server topic SCOPE_IDENTITY (Transact-SQL).
The important takeaway here is that that the use of system functions should not be arbitrary. Careful consideration should be given to which ones are implemented and how they're used, just like any other T-SQL element.
Thank you for reading our blog about T-SQL.
Website & Local SEO Sydney by DMS.


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Eppendorf AG and the Science journal are now accepting applications for the Eppendorf & Science Prize for Neurobiology 2017. The annual, international prize comes with a bourse of EUR 23,000 and goes to young scientists for outstanding contributions to neurobiological research based on methods of molecular and cell biology. Researchers aged up to 35 years have until June 15, 2017 to submit their entries. A panel of independent experts headed by Dr. Peter Stern, Science Senior Editor, will select the finalists and prize-winner.
Reproducing the development of the human brain
Last year's prize went to Dr. Gilad Evrony, an Israeli-American scientist, who is conducting research at New York's Mount Sinai Hospital. Dr. Evrony is developing technologies to sequence and analyse the genomes of single cells from the human brain. His research has uncovered a diversity of mutations in neuronal genomes indicating that every neuron in the brain carries a unique fingerprint of somatic mutations. Such mutations can cause focal brain malformations and may play a role in other unsolved neurologic diseases. The technology also allows, for the first time, reconstruction of developmental lineage trees in the human brain to study how cells proliferate and migrate to build the brain.
Subsidiaries in 25 countries
Eppendorf AG, a leading life science company, develops and sells instruments, consumables and services for liquid, sample and cell handling in laboratories worldwide. The product range includes pipettes, dispensers and centrifuges, mixers and reaction vessels. The company manufactures ultra-low temperature freezers, bioreactors, CO2 incubators, shakers and DNA amplification equipment. Eppendorf's products are used in academic and industrial research laboratories in the pharmaceutical, biotech, chemical and food industries. Founded in Hamburg in 1945, Eppendorf AG now employs 3,000 staff in branches across 25 countries.
Sources and further information:


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Monthly Archives: January 2013
SC2: Heart of the Swarm Cinematic
All I can think of when I watch this is the fact that I need to hurry up and actually play through the campaign of SCII. I enjoyed the story thus far and want to see how it plays out. … Continue reading
Music: Add Me Maybe
The original song doesn't need much in the way of introductions. Now I will warn you that the singing isn't all that it's cracked up to be… but it's the lyrics that are the highly entertaining part. Just like the … Continue reading
5.2: Dungeon Reputation Returns!
This makes me a very happy panda. A very happy panda indeed. You know, I have yet to run a dungeon or scenario now that I have a level capped toon? Why?
5.2 Possible Repairs to Stormwind/Ogrimmar
The below footage from a recent PTR patch pleases me greatly: We of course don't get to see the Park returned to its former glory, but we do get to see that the workers are now finished and off working … Continue reading
5.2 Trailer Arrives: Thunder King Isle
So I'm a little late on this but that's okay. Dinosaurs trump my being late. The island itself has been inaccessible thus far so it's nice to finally see the map of Pandaria fully fleshed out. Makes me curious about … Continue reading
Music: Moves
Wowinsider directed me to this one and I can't get over it. Let's think about this for a moment. The artist who created this states on the comments that it took him approximately a year to create it. He taps … Continue reading


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The Kinchen Group
SurveyingTitle CompanyAlbany BusinessProperty ManagementNotary Public
Monday - Thursday 8:00am to 4:00pm
Friday - By appointment only
Driving Directions:
Drive East on Hwy 190 away from the red light in albany for 500 feet. The Kinchen Group office will be on the right hand side of the road directly across from the Capital One bank ATM.
About Us
The Kinchen's have been in the real estate business for over 30 years. Over this time we have developed hundreds of acres while helping countless families invest in their future. TKG was designed by the 3rd generation of real estate entrepreneurs in the Kinchen family in hopes to reach a broader clientele and expand the business for generations to come. TKG brings together qualified real estate professionals to have localized in-house expertise in operating markets. Having a network of the necessary expertise allows The Kinchen Group to create strategic partnerships to ensure delivery of a premium service.
Services Currently Offered:
- Property Management...Our rent collection/rental property management team will take the burden of rental properties off your back. We enforce restrictions, have sight visits, and ensure monthly collection of rent payments.
- Development...We focus on rural residential development with projects ranging from 10 to 100 acres in size. Lots range from .5 to 10 acres.
- Sales...Our sales are focused on the residential lots being produced by the development team. Sales include but not limited to single family homes, office rentals, raw land, and developed land.
- Financing...Special financing options that require no credit check. Small down payments and easy monthly notes to allow anyone the opportunity to invest.
- Surveying...There is no job to big or too small. Whether marking boundary lines or creating new ones, our surveyors have years of experience to help with any project.
- Notary/Title...Our in house notary is an expert on Louisiana law.
- Property Managment
- Land Surveying
- Notary/Title
- Land Development


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StarGames poker online for real money
The potential of the Internet seem to be boundless. Online poker for real money has already excelled traditional poker in its major features and offers and at the moment it is hard to imagine what else poker fans can expect. The idea comprises many features, which can be classified according to types, options, promotions, software, etc. All this was created to provide unrivaled poker gambling experience that can be gained on the WWW only.
5 Card Draw, Texas Hold'em and Omaha: choose StarGames poker
Reliable online casinos offer all the existing poker variants. These variations are subdivided into four poker families (Straight, Stud, Draw, and Community) according to card-dealing protocol and betting. The three variants named above are the most favored ones. 5 Card Draw belongs to the Draw family, while Hold'em and Omaha are Community poker games. Video poker (based on 5 Card Draw) is another casino game played webwide with much excitement.
Free demos
Not all poker players are the people aiming at cash winning only. Some prefer to play poker just for fun. Additionally, free poker games can be subdivided into free full and demo versions. Both variants can be played for fun and to acquire more knowledge. Improving knowledge enables improving skills. Virtual, e.g. Hold'em, jackpot of half a million dollars is a pleasant thought itself. Maybe one day it can turn into a real one.
Choose provider
All the leading software providers have created their own software. Thus, any player can choose among the games developed by such companies as Microgaming, PlayTech, CryptoLogic, NetEnt, etc. Even such a well-known supplier as Novomatic specializing in slot machine producing primarily has developed its poker games that do yield to the games released by the grand gaming software developers. Real money online poker games are terrific in their crisp and clear graphics. What provider to choose is just a matter of your individual preferences.
Take advantage of poker promotions
Various offers, specials and bonuses are another pleasant feature especially fancied by all poker real money players. Such promotions together with exciting online gambling experience can grant all fans far more fun and pleasure.


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I am a board member, business owner and philanthropist. I own and run the daily operations of Magnuson Superchargers, a 40-year SEMA member and the leader in the high-performance supercharger market. I founded, funded, built and ran 5 start-up companies. Two of these companies reached revenues of $70 and $100m respectively each in less than 12 months. These early successes and 7 years spent at AT&T developing their consumer strategy were a perfect platform from which to enter the most engaging work of my career – the automotive aftermarket.
Before SEMA, I was active in CSCMP, a trade organization for the $3.4 trillion-dollar supply chain industry. I have not been exposed to any trade organization better run, providing more benefits, or who cares more about its members than SEMA. It makes "giving back" to SEMA by volunteering an honor and a responsibility.
SEMA Experience:
- 2017 Chair Task Force for Person of the Year
- Speaker SEMA education program
- 2018 Member SEMA PAC Board
- 2018 Chair Scholarship Committee
- 2018 SEMA's SBN Athena Woman of the Year
Board Experience
I have served on 8 board, each for many years – two for profit and 5 not for profit.
- Magnuson Superchargers
- Arrington Engines
- Member, SEMA PAC Board
- Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council
- National Art Museum of Sport
- Learning Spring Elementary School (K-8 in NYC for children with autism)
- Waters Global Forum
- Roton Point Sailing Association
Other Honors and Activities
1997 Henry Crown Fellow (HCF). Each year, approximately twenty of the highest-potential leaders in American business and other key institutions are selected to participate in a two-year program of seminars, designed to sharpen their leadership skills in the context of readings that convey enduring values. The Henry Crown Fellows will be young, diverse and highly motivated. And they will be joined by senior mentors chosen from among the nation's most community-spirited business leaders. I chose as my HCF philanthropic project to co-found a school for children on the autistic spectrum in New York City. An existing school was threating to end their program mid-year and we had until Fall to put a certified school and program together. In September 2001 we started with 29 students and a few classrooms. Today we have 108 students and a new dedicated building complete with indoor gym.
Magnuson Superchargers, winner of two Toyota Quality Award


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Homies Wonderland Heads to Tokyo
For this season, HSWLD has sent their statement streetwear to Tokyo. Both the collection and campaign carry the sentiment that style speaks louder than words— and the language of these designs are definitely loud. Collaborating with influencers and various creative figures from the L.E.S. and Shibuya, the collection highlights symbols of cultural overlap between the two cities through graphics garnered from childhood games and nostalgic snapshots of timeless surroundings.
- Text by Anna Zanes


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Some meters incorporate an integrated calibration check that will quickly test a particular decibel reading. The meter seems to be of top quality. It will begin displaying sound level readings. An electric meter is a system used to gauge the use of electricity at a residence, company, or by any device which runs with electricity. Sound level meters have existed for several years. Many sound level meters enable you to display multiple distinct parameters on screen at once, along with saving many more to file. Sound level meters of both classes have the exact same functionality, but unique tolerances for error.
The Benefits of Level Meter
The instrument is easily calibrated in the field working with an acoustic calibrator. The instruments can likewise be left in a location of concern to record noise on a set period of time. It needs to know the sensitivity of the particular microphone being used.
Understanding Level Meter
So as to record you have to bring an audio track. Thereby, the sound level meter features as an example the option to measure how the sound is going to be heard by the human ear. There are a number of different sound measuring systems out there. Noise has a corrosive effect on learning. Before rectifying a sound situation, you have to first determine what sort of noise you've got, who the sound is affecting, and the kind of data you must produce the correction.
You are going to discover on a daily basis the actual idea of mastering and the actual reason why there aren't any ideal settings that may be used with each song. There are occasions where you will encounter a normal citizen on the street who simply has an issue alongside you. Many of the advanced meter infrastructure jobs are available within this area. After reading this hub, you're going to be in a very good place to find optimum benefits related to your usage of an industrial dishwasher.
A Secret Weapon for Level Meter
The analog bar graph display provides the user a quick overview over the whole measuring range. Both have exactly the same functionality but unique tolerances for error. It's likewise required to educate the customer on this front as they're not knowledgeable about the functional feature of the system. There you'll also find further information regarding the LEQ-function of the sound level meter.
A Secret Weapon for Level Meter
Sometimes, very low blood pressure might be the reason. Other methods to attain vibration control include using vibration mounts. Actually, most pool methods operate with an excessive amount of horsepower! The most recent water level methods utilize digital sensor for specifying the volume of water in a tank. There are plenty of water level sensor systems readily available today. With the newest sensor devices, you will not ever have to replace the whole unit.
When you have questions regarding noise instrumentation, call Enviro-Equipment. If there's an issue with a component, simply replace it with a suitable part. There are frequently problems occurring every time an individual lives next to a club or pub.
There isn't any need to acquire exclusive software. To put it differently the true level is going to be a bit over the number so aim to receive mainly 5as. Day-night typical sound level is the typical sound level more than a 24 hour period. The measured sound level calculated over a time period in a measurement of disturbance that has certain disturbance level specifications be means of sound level corrections.


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People Are Now Paying $300,000 For A Luxury Trip Climbing Mount Everest.
At least 11 deaths on Mount Everest in the past week has drawn attention to just how severely overcrowded the mountain has become.
A record 381 people were granted permits to climb Mount Everest in 2019, according to The Washington Post, and the number of guides can easily double the number of people on the mountain.
Many of these climbers are on Everest at the same time, in a narrow time frame when conditions are best. This results in bottlenecking and queuing in the mountain's "death zone," where there's simply not enough oxygen for the body's cells to survive.
All these conditions create a recipe for disaster.
Most people who climb Everest hire commercial expedition operators, which usually charge between $60,000 and $65,000, according to The British Mountaineering Council (BMC).
But not everyone who climbs Mount Everest is a daring adventurer, some people just want to play pretend and have the same luxuries they have at home.
One company, Seven Summit Treks, charges $130,000 per person for a "VVIP" Mount Everest package that includes a welcome dinner, a stay in a five-star Kathmandu hotel, a private bakery and bar at base camp, private heated kitchen, shower, and toilet tents at base camp, a personal photographer, meals, and unlimited tea and coffee, plus a private helicopter service. The package doesn't include international flights to and from Nepal, required gear, or tips for the crew.
This amount is massive compared to the $6,000 -$8,000 most people spend on items such as a down suit, sleeping bags, boots, a trekking backpack, and an ice axe.


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Shares of Ujjivan Financial Services fell nearly 8 percent on Monday after the company filed a draft red herring prospectus with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) to list its subsidiary Ujjivan Small Finance Bank (USFB). The stock fell as much as 7.8 percent to Rs 261.70 per share on BSE. At 9:25 am, the stock was trading 4.4 percent lower at Rs 271.7 compared with 0.63 percent (236 points) gain in BSE Sensex at 37,586. USFB plans to launch an initial public offering (IPO) at a face value…Read More
Tag: IPO
Ujjivan Small Finance Bank files Rs 1,200 cr IPO papers
Ujjivan Small Finance Bank is planning an initial public offering to raise Rs 1,200 crore. The company on August 16 filed a draft red herring prospectus with SEBI. "Ujjivan Small Finance Bank is proposing to undertake an initial public offering of equity shares of face value of Rs 10 each, comprising a fresh issue of equity shares by bank aggregating up to around Rs 1,200 crore," Ujjivan Financial Services said in its BSE filing. The price band for public issue may be determined by bank in consultation with the book running lead managers…Read More


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It's not a hotline, it's a 'warmline': It gives mental health help before a crisis heats upDec 4, 2019 at 9:28 pm
Unlike a hotline for those in immediate crisis, warmlines provide early intervention with emotional support that can prevent a crisis – and a more costly 911 call or ER visit. The lines are typically free, confidential peer-support services staffed by volunteers or paid employees who have experienced mental health conditions themselves. "It's unimaginable, hard to conceptualize, for those who don't work in this field, what the level of need really is," said Quinn Anderson, who manages the NAMI HelpLine .


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Aftermath of a Lengthy Rejection Slip
No Place: Grenfell Press, 1983. First Thus. Paperback. Letter Y of 26 SIGNED copies of this reprinting of Buk's 1944 story. Fine copy in tall decorated wrappers. One tall sheet, folded once to form a four page booklet. Fine. Item #007665
Signed by Author.
Price: $450.00
See all items in Charles Bukowski, Poetry Broadsides
See all items by Charles Bukowski


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In the first post of the year, you'll find attached multiple resources for CCEA AS1 Chemistry. These include a full set of revision notes on each topic.
Tag Archives: CCEA
Animal Farm Revision Notes
Attached are revision notes and key events of each chapter for Animal Farm. I hope these are useful for anyone sitting exams this June. Click the links below to download.
Animal Farm Revision Notes
Animal Farm Key Events
To Kill A Mockingbird
Revision notes for To Kill A Mockingbird can be found in the link below. These should help you for your English Literature exam. Its best to learn English Literature of by heart so its basically just recall in an exam essay.
To Kill A Mockingbird Revision Notes
History Essays for CCEA
Attached are several essays relating to CCEA History. You may find these useful during exams.
Nazis Increase Control
USSR Control
Support for Hitler
Treaty of Versailles and Invading Poland
Cuban Missile Crisis
Women and Youth
O'Neill economic and Republic
English Essays for Of Mice and Men and Blood Brothers
Attached in this post are essays relating to Of Mice and Men and Blood Brothers. Many of them are relevant and you will find them helpful for revision in May and June.
Left Out Characters
Sorryness Quotes OMAM
Poverty In Blood Brothers
Money Source of Hapiness
Edward and Micky
Temporary Hapiness
Micky Responsible for his Life
CCEA Physics Past Papers
Attached is a complete set of past papers for CCEA Double Award Physics Past Papers for both Higher and Foundation. These will prove very helpful during exams and are an excellent tool for revision.
Double Award – Foundation Past papers
Double Award – Higher Tier Past papers
Complete Biology Revision Notes
Attached in this post is a COMPLETE set of revision notes for the Biology section of the Double Award Specification. The notes follow the specification exactly and include some practice questions. They'll be a great help for anyone studying Biology for either double or triple award and I hope that you get loads of use out of them. And make sure to spread the blog to your fellow pupils and make sure to print out the notes, they'll be helpful to you in June.


text: Adriana is a research assistant at Simon Bolivar University's Laboratory of Community Dynamics and Ecological Process. Her main focus is on developing an integrated fire management plan for Canaima National Park, through collaboration with the local Pemón communities. She has a B.S. in Chemistry, specialising in Geochemistry, and is currently studying for a Master's in Development and Environment.


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Generation Z: The Rise of the Technologically Inclined and the Socially Impaired (Part I)
When I was a kid, my friends and I would clean out the pantry of all the junk food my mom bought.
My sister was never happy about not having Twinkies to devour, or Fruit Roll-Ups to munch on after her soccer games. And my mom certainly wasn't pleased with our gluttonous ways since it was doing nothing but burnrning a hole in her pocket every week.
But we were young. We needed junk food.
One of the most satisfying treats in that pantry was the soda… and we had it all: Coca-Cola, Barq's, Sprite, Canada Dry, IBC Cream Soda, Welch's Grape Soda, you name it. Our favorite was Mountain Dew. We'd suck down case after case like it was water.
Life was good until we hit middle school. During sex ed classes we heard a rumor: Mountain Dew makes you infertile.
We didn't care. We were in middle school. The Dew remained our drink of choice.
Then we were in high school. By then, the rumor had morphed somewhat: Yellow-5 lowers sperm count (and that's what's in Mountain Dew).
We still didn't care. I don't know many adolescent boys who'd stop drinking such a delicious, refreshing beverage because it might lower sperm count. If anything, such rumors might encourage even more consumption. No high school boy sets out to become a dad that early.
Mountain Dew could almost replace the condom, or so they believed.
Their logic behind that belief was sound, but…
The Decline of Man
While I never found out if there was truth to that "Yellow-5" rumor, just 18 short years later (yes, I'm a Millennial) we're witnessing the greatest drop in birth rates seen in the U.S. since 1987.
It's something that Harry has talked to you about before.
Over the years, researchers and epidemiologists have been looking over the data to figure out what's going on here (and globally). What they've discovered is unsettling…
To start, men are more prone to die before women, regardless of age. It's just how it is.
Studies have also shown a severe decrease in sperm counts per milliliter of semen by more than 50% since 1973. Overall sperm counts were down by about 60% as well.
The cherry on top? Testosterone levels have dropped drastically. And this drop, from what scientist are learnrning, is starting in utero and going all throughout adult. Even to the extent that the lower testosterone levels are being passed on from parent to child.
In short, men are dying earlier, producing less spunk, and are being bornrn with lower levels of testosterone across the board.
If this trend continues, at this rate, men could lead humanity to extinction in the next 40 years or so…
Thankfully, technology (think IVF and stem cell stuff) is advancing to the point where the human race could still survive, even if men – in all traditional senses – disappeared.
Still, things aren't looking good for modernrn men.
And most scientists believe that it all started to go south for our swimmers around the time of the Industrial Revolution, when plastics began to infiltrate every aspect of our lives. Foreign chemicals and compounds, like BPA, have taken their toll on our little soldiers.
Take care, take care.
P.S. Smoking a reefer and drinking some whiskey alongside of Joe Rogan in his podcast. Elon Must has fallen off his rocker! Here's what Rodney thinks about that and its impact on Tesla investors…


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This video in which a Chinese bride confronts the groom's supposed gay lover has amassed over 1.5 million hits on Youtube since its posting 10 months ago.
What do you guys think? Too juicy to be true?
This young tractor driver wanted to celebrate his love and profession by gussying up a convoy of tractors for his wedding! Anybody else got The Surrey With the Fringe On Top in their head now also?
Because it's never been done before, Chinese bride Li Kuo wore a 110-pound wedding dress with a 520-meter-long (1,700 feet) train to her wedding in Beijing. She chose the number 520 because the numbers 5-2-0 are pronounced the same as "I love y
Liu Fu and her husband didn't have much money when they married so despite the fact that he died 30 years ago, she saved up her money for a lavish wedding photo session with a photographer. She even dressed up as the groom herself for a few shots!
This couple who are both over 100 years old have been married 88 years but never had any wedding portraits. Now they do! Looking as lovely as ever!
In which we see the pain and torture the groom and his men must endure at the hands of the bridesmaids. I kinda like these traditions!


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An expanding population, persistent droughts, declining fish populations and aging agricultural irrigation infrastructure are stressing our water resources. Our Irrigation Modernization Program creates a one-stop shop for the support that irrigation districts and farmers need to realize infrastructure upgrades, including: identifying short and long-term irrigation goals, assessing opportunities and risks, identifying potential stakeholder partnerships, evaluating associated economic, ecological and social benefits, as well as securing project financing and facilitating project implementation.
FCA's Irrigation Modernization Program is a solution that addresses the critical need to conserve our most life-sustaining resource. Please visit our Program section to learn more.
At least 10 irrigation districts in Oregon will install modernized infrastructure to:


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|Australian Belt Cleaning Pty. Ltd. based in Sydney, was established in August 2011 with its primary objective to supply unique and innovative conveyor componentry to the Australasian bulk handling industry and while doing so, increasing the End-User's competitiveness in their markets.The company is managed by Richard Hodey (Senior technical manager) and Mike Camphuis (Senior account manager) whom share a wealth of technical and business experience and are both extremely customer service orientated.
We are the sole importer and distributor for several German designed and manufactured products i.e.:
CleanScrape – Primary diagonal belt cleaner
SpeedScrape – Secondary 3-in-1 diagonal belt cleaner
AirScrape – Contact free conveyor belt skirting
DustScrape – Energy free dust control
Australian Belt Cleaning Pty. Ltd. predominately services the End-User market through accredited partnering Resellers which are strategically located in the market. We provide a range of technical & after-sales services safeguarding the success of our products and hold ample amounts of local stock to guarantee quick order processing.


text: I LOVE to be creative! It makes me feel accomplished and is a total stress relief. I also love sharing my creations with others and hearing their reactions. I am a bit of a perfectionist, so I usually find something wrong with what I have made. Therefore, I like hearing someone's critic of my newest art project whether it be good or bad. I know I am not perfect and I am incapable of making anything that is even close to being perfect. I can't wait to share what I have made with you to hear what you think. Please don't hesitate to leave me a comment…good or bad! Please just make sure it is respectful please 🙂


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Road Trip Goals Part II
A week ago, I blogged about five goals I have for my first road trip of the 2012 season for The Ballpark Guide. If you missed that post, check it out here.
My first day of travel, May 21, is rapidly approaching, so here are five more goals I hope to accomplish.
6. Be interviewed during a game broadcast
Not only would this be an awesome opportunity to spread the word about my website and this blog, it would be a lot of fun, too. Without being too much of a tease, I'll have some great news to share about this goal very soon.
7. Get 50 autographs
This one might be a little challenging. Three of the games I'm attending are school days, which means the parks will be crawling with kids. I've got to average a little more than seven autographs per game to hit this goal, so it'll be interesting to see how I manage. I don't know exactly how many autographs I got last summer, but it was definitely at least 50.
8. Buy a hat
It sounds simple, right? But I'm a bit picky when it comes to hats. Last year, I bought a handful, which you can see here. I'm not sure which hat I'll get on this trip, but I plan to add at least one to my collection.
9. Have my photo taken with a player
For all the autographs I get, I never stop to get a photo taken with a player. I think this would be a neat thing to have for my blog. I'll obviously get a photo with Jeremy Nowak when I'm in Frederick, but I'll try to get a photo with another player or two during my travels.
10. Have some unforeseen fun adventure
This is pretty vague, but one of the beauties of my road trips is that sometimes, I stumble into something unexpected and awesome. In Fort Wayne, the TinCaps GM gave me a personal tour of Parkview Field that included a visit to the clubhouse. At Salisbury's Arthur W. Perdue Stadium, I retrieved Nowak's first South Atlantic League ball that eventually got returned to him (as you probably know about by now!) and in Baltimore, I got to meet 1970 American League MVP Boog Powell:
Hopefully, something extra exciting will transpire, and I'll be able to blog all about it!


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Dr. Dre – Kush (feat. Snoop Dogg and Akon)
Watch the first official single from Detox.
Watch the first official single from Detox.
In this week's Pay to Slum, Britney and Akon give JTL a bad case of the Kardashians.
Aww shit, y'all. The Smoking Gun, has pulled a James Frey on R&B crooner Akon, whose album Konvicted has gone triple-platinum, showing that he's never been to prison. Akon's Con Job: While the performer's rap sheet does include a half-dozen arrests, Akon has only been convicted of one felony, for gun possession. That 1998 New … Continue reading Akon is a Lying-Ass Phony


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Doorsteps has been trading for less than a year and now claims to be the UK's 18th largest estate agency. The company has caused a flurry of interest because its founder, Akshay Ruparelia, started the business while he was studying for his A-levels. The 19-year-old – nicknamed 'Alan Sugar' by his friends – launched the company after realising "people have had enough of being ripped off by high street agents charging them a fortune, but not doing a lot to sell their home."
Like the reviews? Go to Doorsteps
Instead, Akshay and his 12-strong (and growing) team will sell your home for just £99 – far less than many other online estate agents, and thousands of pounds cheaper than their high street counterparts. But the company isn't aimed solely at entry-level sellers, either. Doorsteps has homes worth millions of pounds on its books, including enormous Devonshire estates and multi-million pound Notting Hill flats.
Doorsteps Profile
The company's straight-talking, no-frills approach has proven hugely popular with property sellers around the country (it's sold property as far south as Cornwall and as far north as the Scottish Highlands), and after launching with a family loan of just £7,000, the company recently raised nearly £550,000 in crowdfunding from almost 500 investors – far surpassing the original £400,000 target. The business has been valued at £12 million, and its management team includes former Rightmove overseas chief Sham Golamy.
Despite winning a place at Oxford University to study economics, Akshay has put his studies on hold to focus on Doorsteps, which has received consistent praise from all corners. Reviews on AllAgents and Trustpilot reveal scores and scores of happy customers.
Clearly, the company has big plans for the future, but Akshay – who has admitted to mimicking the business nous of Ryanair's Michael O'Leary – wants to keep it grounded. Part of its current plans for growth include the expansion of its local agents network, which is comprised of self-employed mothers around the country.
"Mums know a thing or two, don't they?" he says. "And quite rightly people trust mums. Every mum who works for me will be honest and tell the truth. That's so important because for the vast majority of people, selling their home is the biggest financial transaction of their lives." The biggest financial transaction, maybe, but as Doorsteps' business model shows, it doesn't have to be a costly transaction.
Claims and statistics
- Your listing online and live within 24 hours
- Doorstep customers save an average £5,121 in estate agency fees
- The average sale is agreed in 20 days
- The average Doorstep seller gets 99% of their asking price
Fees and services
Doorsteps' main selling point is its low prices. As such, it offers two packages, one for £99 and a more comprehensive one for £199. With both, sellers get a free instant valuation, a dedicated account manager, weekly reports, sales progression and negotiation, and their property listed on hundreds of websites, including Rightmove and Zoopla.
The £199 package also comes with professional photos, floorplans and a professionally-written property description.
Doorsteps also offers a number of extras that can be purchased with either package, at any time during the sales process. These include accompanied viewings (£66 per viewing or £100 per hour for an open house), for sale boards, videos and EPC (£72).
Market position
Doorsteps in new to the online estate agency market, but in its short life has gained a very prominent position. In terms of customer satisfaction, the company scores 9.4/10 (five stars), placing sixth on our table of 11. The companies preceding it do so by an almost negligible amount: the highest scoring company has 9.8/10, whereas the lowest scoring company has 8.4/10, making Doorsteps a top performer in this category.
In terms of value, Doorsteps takes second place on our cheapest online agents table, which features 11 companies overall. Doorsteps is therefore one of the most inexpensive online estate agents, but while the company promises support and guidance throughout the sales process, the budget nature of the packages available means you may have to put slightly more work in than you would with other, more costly hybrid agents.