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HOUSTON (Dec. 13, 2012) Since Edison's first bulb, heat has been a mostly undesirable byproduct of light. Now researchers at Rice University are turning light into heat at the point of need, on the nanoscale, to trigger biochemical reactions remotely on demand.
The method created by the Rice labs of Michael Wong, Ramon Gonzalez and Naomi Halas and reported today in the American Chemical Society journal ACS Nano makes use of materials derived from unique microbes thermophiles that thrive at high temperatures but shut down at room temperature.
The Rice project led by postdoctoral fellow Matthew Blankschien and graduate student Lori Pretzer combines enzymes from these creatures with plasmonic gold nanoparticles that heat up when exposed to near-infrared light. That activates the enzymes, which are then able to carry out their functions.
This effectively allows chemical processes to happen at lower temperatures. Because heating occurs only where needed at the surface of the nanoparticle, where it activates the enzyme the environment stays cooler.
Blankschien thinks that's fascinating.
"Basically, we're getting the benefits of high-temperature manufacturing without needing a high-temperature environment," said Blankschien, who won the Peter and Ruth Nicholas Postdoctoral Fellowship two years ago to work on these ideas. "The challenge was to keep the higher temperature at the nanoparticle, where the enzyme is activated, from affecting the environment around it."
The technique holds great potential for industrial processes that now require heat or benefit from remote triggering with light.
"The implications are pretty exciting," said Wong, a professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering and of chemistry. "In the chemical industry, there's always a need for better catalytic materials so they can run reactions more inexpensively, more 'green' and more sustainably. You shouldn't run through gallons of solvent to make a milligram of product, even if you happen to be able to sell it for a lot of money."
For industry, the potential energy savings alone may make the Rice process worth investigating. "Here we're using 'free' energy," Wong said. "Instead of needing a big boiler to produce steam, you turn on an energy-efficient light bulb, like an LED. Or open a window."
The particle at the center of the process is a gold nanorod about 10 nanometers wide and 30 long that heats up when hit with near-infrared light from a laser. The rods are just the right size and shape to react to light at around 800 nanometers. The light excites surface plasmons that ripple like water in a pool, in this case emitting energy as heat.
Halas' Rice lab is famous for pioneering the use of gold nanoshells (a related material) to treat cancer by targeting tumors with particles that are bulk heated to kill tumors from the inside. The therapy is now in human trials.
The new research takes a somewhat different tack by heating nanoparticles draped with a model thermophilic enzyme, glucokinase, from Aeropyrum pernix. A. pernix is a microbe discovered in 1996 thriving near hot underwater vents off the coast of Japan. At around 176 degrees Fahrenheit, A. pernix degrades glucose, a process necessary to nearly every living thing. The enzyme can be heated and cooled repeatedly.
In their experiments, Blankschien and Pretzer cloned, purified and altered glucokinase enzymes so they would attach to the gold nanoparticles. The enzyme/nanoparticle complexes were then suspended in a solution and tested for glucose degradation. When the solution was heated in bulk, they found the complexes became highly active at 176 degrees, as expected.
Then the complexes were encapsulated in a gel-like bead of calcium alginate, which helps keeps the heat in but is porous enough to allow enzymes to react with materials around it. Under bulk heating, the enzymes' performance dropped dramatically because the beads insulated the enzymes too well.
But when encapsulated complexes were illuminated by continuous, near-infrared laser light, they worked substantially better than under bulk heating while leaving the solution at near-room temperature. The researchers found the complexes robust enough for weeks of reuse.
"As far-fetched as it sounds, I think chemical companies will be interested in the idea of using light to make chemicals," Wong said. "They're always interested in new technologies that can help make chemical products more cheaply."
He sees other possible uses for the new approach in the production of fuels from degradation of biomass like lignocellulose; for drug manufacture on demand maybe from nanoparticle-infused tattoos on the body; or even for lowering blood sugar concentrations as a different way to manage diabetes.
"That we can now make these particles is great," Wong said. "The next exciting part is in thinking about how we can deploy them."
Ryan Huschka, a co-author of the paper, is a former Rice graduate student and now an assistant professor of chemistry at Newman University. Halas is the Stanley C. Moore Professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering, a professor of biomedical engineering, chemistry, physics and astronomy and director of Rice's Laboratory for Nanophotonics. Gonzales is an associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering and also of bioengineering
The research was supported by the Peter and Ruth Nicholas Postdoctoral Fellowship Program administered by the Richard E. Smalley Institute for Nanoscale Science and Technology, the Rice University Institute of Biosciences and Bioengineering Hamill Innovations Award Program, the Rice University Faculty Initiatives Fund, the Robert A. Welch Foundation, the National Security Science and Engineering Faculty Fellowship, the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, the Air Force Office of Scientific Research and the National Science Foundation.
|Contact: David Ruth
Rice University


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Apple Xserve Quad-Core (2GHz) (64-bit Intel Xeon) Server RAM Memory Upgrades
The memory modules below are 100% compatible with your Apple Xserve Quad-Core (2GHz) (64-bit Intel Xeon) Server. Not your model? View the complete range of Apple Servers or view all Apple upgrades here.
4GB Kit (2x2GB Modules)
- Dimm Speed: DDR2-5300 (PC2-667)
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- Product code: FT256MFB72V6K-T/2
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- Form Factor: 240 Pin Fully Bufferred Dimm
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Was £39.67.
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Understanding desktop memory
RAM is your desktop's memory, but it is not storage. You cannot manually delete anything from your computer's RAM if you are trying to free up space. RAM stands for Random Access Memory, and it is essentially a temporary storage location for your computer's programs while they are in use. Once you close down a program because you are finished using it, it will be removed from your computer's RAM automatically.
On the other hand, your hard-drive is your desktop's permanent storage. Here it stores all of your documents, pictures, and programs all the time. If you want to free up space on your computer, you will need to delete from here manually – but once you do, whatever you delete will be completely removed from your desktop.
Your desktop's virtual memory is used temporarily by your computer to store any RAM programs that you have loaded but that you are not currently using. If your system is running low on RAM, your desktop will use more virtual memory so it can free up the space it needs to operate effectively. However, if this happens you will see your computer acting much slower than normal. That's a good indication that you should quit a few programs or close down a few Internet browser tabs.
If you'd like to help your current RAM work a little better, it's a good idea to close down any applications you are not using so your computer isn't trying to focus on too many things all at once. Sometimes, restarting your computer can also give your RAM a quick refresh.
Improving your Desktop Performance
Having more RAM on your desktop can help it to run faster. It's easy to purchase more RAM for your desktop to help increase its speed. You can also perform easy, regular maintenance on your desktop to keep it running at its best. This includes keeping some free space on your hard-drive – imagine it as some "breathing room" for your desktop. You can transfer large files like movies, pictures and music to an external hard-drive to free up some space easily.
There are also several programs you can download to help your computer run more efficiently by compressing files, defragmenting your hard-drive and removing temporary system files. Overall, it's important to treat your desktop well, both RAM and hard-drive, if you want to keep your computer running smoothly.
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Specification of Apple Xserve Quad-Core (2GHz) (64-bit Intel Xeon) memory upgrade
Your system memory specification is listed below, most importantly your maximum memory capacity:
|Device Specifications
|Make + Model
|Apple Xserve Quad-Core (2GHz) (64-bit Intel Xeon)
|Device Type
|N° of Ram Slots
|8 Slots (4 Banks of 2)
|Standard Ram
|512MB or 1GB (Removable)
|Maximum Memory
|Apple Tech Support
|Official Apple Support Link
If you are looking to place a quantity order or are buying on behalf of the public or private sector then please contact one of our designated account managers who will be able to deal with your requirements in more detail.
For any queries you may have please contact one of our experienced Memory Specialists via one of the following methods and they will ensure that any issue is resolved immediately and effectively.
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Established in 1996, OFFTEK is trusted by many of the UK's best known household names as their number ONE source for ram upgrades.
Misson critical or movie night we have your upgrade sortedOur team is made up of memory specialists with an average of 9 years experience in the RAM industry. We offer upgrades for not only the latest machines on the market but just as important those legacy machines that you need to keep running.
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Limited Lifetime WarrantyFeel confident that your memory will last a lifetime. Our limited lifetime warranty guarantees that if your memory should ever fail we will replace or repair the product free of charge provided that it is still manufactured. Please note that the lifetime warranty refers only to memory modules and not flash memory or storage products. Please see the individual 'product details' for warranties specific to each product.
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Online Since 1997Offtek has been supplying memory online since 1997 with over 500,000 happy customers. Well, maybe the odd one does'nt like us ;)
We have always been passionate about providing our customers with the tools and information to update their systems in the simplest manner. Early in 1996 we took on the challenge to find the type of memory compatible with every computer ever built. Hence our first memory configurator was born. Our constant daily updates allow our customers to easily select the correct memory for their machines and that objective is as important today as it was when the idea was first broached across a kitchen table in central Birmingham
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Installing a memory module is one of the simplest upgrades that can be done to a computerThere is no configuration, no sitting around waiting for things to update and backup. It is simply plug and play! By adding more Ram memory into you laptop, desktop or server you will be doing the following:
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Guaranteed CompatibilityOver the years we have taken immense care in creating one of the most in depth memory configurators. We do this to ensure that when you purchase a memory upgrade from OFFTEK you are confident that the upgrade is 100% compatible with your system. Should you have any questions prior to ordering your upgrade we have technicians on hand via live chat, email or phone who will be able to answer any queries you may have.
We take the time to look into each machine to ensure that we offer all sizes and speeds that the machine is able to take not just the latest specification that has been released. We believe that offering all options for machines provides a 100% guarantee that the memory with function with your original memory module efficiently.

subset: commoncrawl


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Monday, November 5, 2012
Cy's Birth Story
I thought I'd better write this down before we forget!
The last three weeks of my pregnancy I was on bed rest, and boy does that stink! Thankfully I had so many gracious friends stop by & keep me company & my sister Carly helped out SO much Tucker it went by relatively quickly!
Cy was born on a Friday. Friday, Janurary 6th to be exact, the same day as my late grandmothers birthday. We got to choose from three dates & we decided that was fitting. Even though it was Janurary it was 66 degree the day he was born! crazy!
Before we left the house we prayed for the day & Lord willing we'd have a healthy delivery & baby soon! We got to the hospital right at 7:30 that morning. I remember not sleeping well the night before...just anxious for the days events. We got there, got to our room & they started my iv to jump start labor. I'd say by 8:30 we were rolling. 8:30 -10:00 I'd say the contractions were consistent, but not unbearable. We'd watch NCIS in between the nurses & midwives coming in to check on my progress. From 10am -1 the harder contractions began. The kind where you can't talk and focus on getting through them. Ryan was great (as usual) and was my little encourager.
By 1:00 I had asked for the epidural & got it pretty quickly after that. From 1-3:30 was quicker contractions & by 3:30 I was fully dilated & ready to push. I remember thinking, WOW this was so much easier than Tuckers labor. I started pushing @ 3:30 & and continued on for 30 mins...nothing. The baby wasn't moving down. The babies heart rate was getting low so they stopped for 30 mins having me switch from side to side & we tried again @ 4:30, I pushed again for 50 mins, having to switch from side to side. still no movement down from the baby. i remember about this time I was ready to give up. I had no more energy left. i was spent. About this time it was shift change for the midwives & I got Carol. But, since Alice had been there all day with me & was just as excited to see what the sex of the baby was (she said not many people don't find out anymore) she stayed in the room & knitted until Cy was born! :-) ) About this time the word C-section was being thrown around. That was all I needed to hear. I remember thinking I did NOT go through all this labor just to have a C-section. The Dr. on call had been called in, along with her nurse & Alice in the corner & three pushes later Cy was born! I remember them putting him on my chest & Carol happily proclaimed, "its a boy!" I looked down at him and immediately started crying. what a miracle, our little miracle. His 10 month birthday is tomorrow & it has been so much fun seeing him grow. His personality is very laid back, happy go lucky, routine driven ---although this one may be because of his mother! :-)--, very tender hearted and the bluest big eyes you've ever seen.
Posted by Ashley Houck at 9:48 PM 0 comments
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Thank you for visiting another one of Keystone Chevrolet's online listings! Please continue for more information on this 2016 Cadillac CTS Sedan AWD with 23,476mi. This vehicle is loaded with great features, plus it comes with the CARFAX BuyBack Guarantee. With amenities and luxuries befitting a modern day king, this splendorous coach reigns supreme. This Cadillac CTS Sedan features AWD. That means power and control delivered to all four wheels for maximum grip and improved handling. It's not a misprint. And the odometer isn't broken. This is a very low mileage Cadillac CTS Sedan. A rare find these days. More information about the 2016 Cadillac CTS Sedan: The Cadillac CTS is a mid-sized luxury sedan in competition with the 5-series BMW and the Mercedes Benz C-Class. Cadillac is priced and engineered to compete directly with the competition from Germany, and its excellent chassis delivers, some say, a superior driving experience. Cadillac's styling seems more forward than the competition and equipment levels are extremely comprehensive. Strengths of this model include spacious, good handling, packed with new technology, powerful engines, and Luxurious
When you come to our Chevrolet dealership near Tulsa, OK, you'll be welcomed by an incredibly friendly staff that provides you with excellent customer service, from the time you walk through our doors looking for a new or used Chevrolet vehicle to the moment you drive away in your new sedan, truck or SUV. At Keystone Chevrolet, we offer an incredibly expansive used inventory, with more vehicles than all stores in Tulsa combined. Our dealership is only five minutes away from downtown Tulsa, and our knowledge and expertise allows you to drive off with a great vehicle. You also get the added benefit of getting more for your trade-in. Even if you have bad credit, know that we will help you get financing so you can head home in your next new or used vehicle!
At Keystone Chevrolet, we are the model of consistency, as the business management team that built our foundation is still intact, enhancing your buying experience with friendly managers and staffers who help shape and support the local community. Our Chevrolet dealership in Sand Springs, OK, gives back to the community by being constantly involved with programs such as Backpack for Kids, the Tulsa Food Bank, and Sand Springs Schools, among many others.
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These compatible printer ink cartridges are quality guaranteed compatible Epson Stylus SX100 printer ink cartridges. Our printer cartridges are made with ink from the usa and will work perfectly in your Epson Stylus SX100 printer, all items are fully guaranteed for printing quality.


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From Green Right Now Reports:
Power bills got you down, and you can't figure out what you're doing wrong because you're trying to do so much right?
The Alliance to Save Energy wants you to realize the most from your efforts to reduce electricity consumption, so they've released this checklist for you to consider as you try to trim those galloping electric bills:
1 – If the payoff from your home fleet of energy efficient products doesn't seem to be reducing your electric bill, ask yourself is it the "dreaded Snackwell effect"? Are you gulping energy in the belief that your more efficient computer, TVs and refrigerator will curb the bill so significantly you no longer have to worry? This phenomenon, akin to dieters indulging on low-calorie foods (like Snackwells) because they estimate that they're consuming fewer calories overall, could be giving you a false perception of the energy-tightening you've done.
2. Have you added big energy users – like a big screen TV that doesn't carry the Energy Star seal – that are undermining your other energy efficiency actions? Look at what you're plugging in around the house.
3 – Have energy rates increased in your area? This could account for why your bill is static despite taking strong steps to cut back.
4 – Are you staying home more in this down economy? Watching movies at home, working from home. All these activities consume electricity.
And we might add…
5 – Keeping those TVs/VCR/DVRs on a power strip, which you turn off during the day, can reduce your household's consumption of "phantom power", that small, but cumulative trickle of energy that's used by electronics that are plugged in, even though they're not turned on.
For more tips on saving energy at home, see the Alliance's list of ideas. www.ase.org/consumers. The Alliance is a coalition of business, government, consumer and advocacy groups, founded in 1977.


text: I got this SVU today and it's been running fine all day until I brought it home tonight and started exploring some of the systems while sitting in the garage. I was hitting the eco and ev buttons, I explored some of the nav screen options, turned on seat heating, etc etc just trying to get to know my new car. During this process it started having what seemed to be power issues, I think particularly when I was hitting the eco and ev buttons. The nav screen kept flashing every ten seconds, and eventually I turned it off and could not get it to come back on. The tiny little screen at the top flashes the highlander intro, a red light comes on at the push to start button, but that's it. The tiny screen goes dark again, the remote doesn't work. I tried jumping it to no avail. Sometimes the check engine light is on, sometimes not. The only real clue I have is a clicking noise coming from the engine bay, and more specifically it seems to be coming from a box marked 'Relay'. Are there fuses in there? Could it be a simple thing of replacing them? Thanks!


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Monday, February 7, 2011
Valentine's Dinner/Tea Party
16 comments:
- Brooke T said...
I can't wait to host parties like this at my house! how fun!! :) I love your teacups!
- February 7, 2011 at 4:29 PM
- Ashley {hudson's happenings} said...
How precious Haley! What a sweet & fun night!!! I wish I could step right into these cute photos and join you all! :)
p.s. You are rocking those Valentine red lips, girl! GORGEOUS!!!
p.p.s. Your little teapots? *swoon*
- February 7, 2011 at 4:31 PM
- Shay said...
GAH! I never ever had tea parties as a kid, I NEED this! So cute!
- February 7, 2011 at 5:23 PM
- charminglychesney said...
this party looked like so much fun! its really adorable from the heart food to the decorations!
- February 7, 2011 at 5:32 PM
- Matt & Stacie said...
Hi Haley- I'm just a stranger stalking your blog because I just love it! :) (Okay, I went to school with Adam and came across your blog a while back).. just thought I would tell you thanks for all your fun ideas you post- i just love them all! you have such a cute little family, keep up the good work! :)
- February 7, 2011 at 6:06 PM
- Unknown said...
I have been so bad at keeping up with blogs lately, but I love this Hales! You and your tea parties are just adorable. Someday we need to have one with all the girls. Ohhh someday :)
And your little red skirt is perfect. So valentine-ish. Glad you had so much fun!
- February 7, 2011 at 6:07 PM
- Nicole @ Wohler's World said...
What a wonderful evening! It makes me want to run and buy a teapot!
- February 7, 2011 at 6:17 PM
- Alely said...
looks like all the ladies in the house had a whole lot of fun!
- February 7, 2011 at 6:55 PM
- Lauren Byers said...
oh my gosh what a cute little party! looks like it was so much fun :)I bet you girls will remember this for the rest of your lives!!
- February 7, 2011 at 7:16 PM
- Unknown said...
Oh my goodness. This is the most adorable thing I have ever seen.
Love, love & love!
I just might have to do this next year with some of my youth girls!
- February 7, 2011 at 7:16 PM
- Chelsea said...
this is so cute! Loved your outfit as well.
- February 7, 2011 at 7:22 PM
- Kari said...
Oh, what fun! Yay for sweet tea parties...
- February 7, 2011 at 8:11 PM
- Diana Smith said...
What cute pictures!! How fun to hang out with friends and eat yummy food!
- February 7, 2011 at 8:53 PM
- Pia said...
Oh, it looks lovely!
I wish I could come to your next tea party!
- February 7, 2011 at 11:33 PM
- Sophie said...
this looks like the loveliest little valentines dinner! gorgeous photos too. and your little boy is so adorable. just read about him on the little side column. love your blog, im a new follower x
- February 8, 2011 at 3:08 AM
- Eva Marie said...
What a blast! You look Gorg :)
- February 8, 2011 at 9:01 AM


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I just discovered—because I hadn't set foot in my gym, ever, until earlier this week—that the elliptical trainers have BUILT IN FANS. Fans! Right there! In the machine. Fans to blow cool air somewhere in the direction of your sweaty face/neck/chest area, while you run in an elliptical motion, Around The Fur blasting on your headphones. Somehow, this makes all the difference. Somehow, this is going to change my life. I'm going to be someone who goes to the gym. A real, responsible human. My mom will be so proud.
Has anything ever had this kind of effect on you?
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Jalopnik is extending a formal challenge to all Bugatti Veyron owners. We don't think you have the balls to do a burnout in your own million-dollar plus hypercar. Care to prove us wrong?
Today we saw a Bugatti EB110SS do a burnout and we realized that no Veyron owners have the cojones to light up the tires in his or her seven figure hypercar. Even Ferrari F430 owners will do burnouts. Other than during a few very hard launches (like the one above), we don't think we've ever seen a Veyron burn rubber at all.
But we're nice people here at Jalopnik and we'd like to give Veyron owners a chance to clear their name.
If you own a Veryon, we challenge you to do a burnout in it. We're not offering you any money as a prize because, hey, Veyron owners don't really need any more money. Send us the video at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Is your phone filled with a library of orange-hued photos? Do you see a potential vintage effect on everything around you? Do you catch yourself thinking things like "This bubble gum wrapper would look much more interesting with a Lo-Fi effect on it?"
Then repeat after me: "Hi, my name is [insert name here], and I am an over-Instagrammer."
Good job. We all know that the first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem. And now, with the admission out of the way, we can start looking at ways to fix the problem.
Believe it or not, most photo editing requires nothing more complicated than the tools available in even the most basic image-editing programs. But learning which tools to use and when to use them requires a little trial and error.
Give it a shot--and before you know it, you could be pumping out your own, preset-filter-free photos without subjecting your friends to an endless deluge of tired Instagram-style effects.
Step two on the road to recovery: understanding the problem.
Instagramming: It's Not All Bad
The great wilderness photographer Ansel Adams once said "A good photograph is knowing where to stand."
It's good advice. Photography is, after all, just a frozen glimpse of what we see every day. And of course anyone who visits Yosemite National Park (one of Adams's favorite locales) can see Half Dome in all its glory from any number of photo-friendly standpoints.
But Adams is also known for saying "Dodging and burning are steps to take care of mistakes God made in establishing tonal relationships." In addition to being a master of exposure and composition, Adams was one of the great darkroom magicians of the photo-film age.
Just as Adams used the technology available to him to make the most of his images, smart photographers today--both amateur and professional--know that what they do after releasing the shutter is integral to achieving the results they desire. And that's true whether that shutter is on a camera or on a smartphone.
What happens when image-editing technology becomes available to masses of untutored, would-be photographers? We're finding out the painful truth now. The prime offenders are photographers who overuse smartphone apps like Instagram, which applies preset effects to mobile photos.
Though these effects can work very effectively for a precious few images (an old rake standing against a garage might look fantastic with a vintage effect laid on it), an important step to recovering from an indiscriminate addiction to Instagram is to limit your use of these filters.
In fact with so many hazy and grainy images from Instagram jerks flooding our photo feeds, a naturally edited photo--free of preset effects--really stands out.
The Instagram app (available for Android and iOS) does deserve some credit. It's a great way to get people to think photographically about the objects and scenes around them. In a world where anyone can snap a photo at any time, Instagram provides an easy-to-use entry into the world of image manipulation. But once you begin to get serious about taking pictures, you need expand your horizons and move beyond using preset filters.
Editing on the Small Screen
Photo editing on small smartphone screens presents some challenges, but a few apps on the market make the process much easier--and even enjoyable at times.
One great option for natural, preset-free photo editing on the go is the Adobe Photoshop Express app, available for free in Android and iOS versions. This surprisingly powerful app packs many of Photoshop's industry-standard photo-editing features into an easy-to-use touch interface, including adjustments for exposure, saturation, contrast, tint, cropping, and more.
Adobe Photoshop Express also provides shortcuts for sharing your touched-up photos to Facebook, Twitter, and Photoshop.com.
Another option for iOS users is PhotoForge 2. This app will set you back $3, but it supplies the same basic editing tools as Photoshop Express. PhotoForge 2 also provides a number of relatively advanced features such as layers and masking, giving you more freedom to doctor your photos. Like Photoshop Express, PhotoForge 2 has built-in social media support for sharing your photos on Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, and more.
The HDR Camera app for Android devices and the HDR+ Camera app for iOS devices--both made by developer Almalence--offer yet another tool for making your mobile images look great. Each app lets you combine multiple photos into one HDR image, which is great for photos taken outdoors, where numerous differences in lighting may affect a shot.
HDR works by keeping the best details of each image and throwing out the rest, thereby ensuring that you won't lose any details due to over- or underexposure. Both HDR apps also include some basic tools for editing your HDR images, but the apps mentioned earlier in this section offer better editing options.


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When Elle Casazza takes the stage, she takes the room, as well—a fact that any Chicagoan who has seen the "fearless, sultry and powerful" artist perform live will likely attest to.
"I've always known I wanted to perform," said Casazza, who, in addition to being a vocalist, plays guitar, piano and ukulele (an instrument that she plays "just for fun").
Although a native of Ann Arbor, Mich., Casazza's musical home is in Chicago. After studying jazz and contemporary vocals at the Chicago College of Performing Arts, Casazza was ready to turn her combined musical passions into a career: "I really enjoyed singing jazz, and I really liked pop music, and it had never occurred to me that that is something that I could make a career out of," she said. "It just never occurred to me that that was an option." Yet, in the years following graduation, that is exactly what she did. One EP ("For Your Pleasure," 2013) and six singles (including her newest, "Soft & Low," 2015) later, Casazza is currently preparing her first full-length album for release.
Influenced by timeless female talents such as Amy Winehouse, Billie Holiday, KT Tunstall, Joni Mitchell and Ella Fitzgerald, Casazza's music combines the genres of pop, rock, blues, soul and jazz. Her new album, "Proof," anticipated for release this fall, expands the boundaries of Casazza's style and taste even further. To the vocals, keys, guitar, bass and drums of Casazza's band, "Proof" adds horns and strings, as well as the diverse sounds of Motown, surf rock, R&B, funk and high-energy 80's music. The album also features a couple of love songs, which Casazza enjoys performing next to her boyfriend, Julian Chin, who plays keys. Casazza said that "Proof" is unlike anything she's created before.
Each of the nine tracks on the all-original, detail-oriented studio album has its own unique style that matches an aspect of Casazza's personality. Her aim in writing lyrics is to be honest and authentic with herself, to "let the feelings out." In discussing her approach to songwriting, Casazza remembered times when "what I wanted to do was yell and scream and kick and shout, so I wrote a song."
The creation of "Proof" is being documented in Casazza's blog, "The Unapologetic Journey." Casazza hopes that the album will empower her listeners to unapologetically be who they are, just as it has for her. "It's such a competitive performing field—it's hard to feel like you're good enough," said Casazza. "So, to me, this is also proof, like, 'Yes, you are worthy, this is good enough, this is meant to be released.' It's proof for me, and it's proof for the world."
For more information about Elle Casazza, including show details and her blog, visit her website, ellecasazza.com, or find her on Facebook.
Credit: Katlyne Heath/ChicagoMusic.org
"Singletrack" is CAR's Artist Story for Chicago performers in which songwriters, bands, playwrights, actors and writers discuss the creation of a recorded work alongside audio or video clips of the performance.


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The following pages have recently been updated in the Calendar of Genealogy Events:
California, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan, Texas, Utah, and Virginia
Some of the above changes may have been deletions of past events.
All information in the Calendar of Events is contributed by YOU and by other genealogists. You can directly add information to the Calendar about your local genealogy event.
Want to add a new event listing? Go to http://calendar.eogn.com and click on the link to your state, province, or country. You will also see links for genealogy cruises and for online webinars. Once the appropriate page is displayed, click on the tab near the top labeled edit this page.
Want to learn more about how to add or edit pages in the Calendar of Events? Read the instructions at http://www.wikidot.com/doc-wiki-syntax:start.


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- Options
- Detail Images
ExposureBeacon Light Diffuser Cover
Item # EXP0018
- 100% Guaranteed Returns
Free Shipping on orders over $50
Beacon Light Diffuser Cover
Exposure's Beacon Light Diffuser Cover is just that -- a beacon. This simple add-on for Exposure Lights is perhaps the simplest, most effective accessory ever. It transforms your light from one that throws a punch of light down the trail to one that casts a strong glow in every direction.
In reality, the Beacon Light Diffuser Cover makes a light like the Diablo, for example, better for general cruising down a trail. The effect is more light on the sides of the trail and under your front wheel. It also produces a more pleasant light when looking at maps or repairing a flat tire in the dark. But the aspect we like most about the Beacon is that it increases your cone of visibility to drivers and other trail users. Simply put, you'll be seen from all angles.
The Exposure Beacon Light Diffuser Cover is made from opaque injection molded silicone and comes in four sizes. Size 1 fits the Joystick, Spark, Flash, Flare, Red Eye, and White Eye. Size 2 fits the Diablo. Size 3 fits the Race, Strada, and Toro. Size four fits the MaXx-D. The Beacon can be installed in seconds or removed and stashed away inside a pocket when you want a more direct beam from your Exposure light.
View more Light Accessories
K-EdgeNiteRider Light Adapter
ExposureSupport Cell
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State agency bond plan includes WKU Honors College & International Center
- Author: Thursday, January 10th, 2013
Gov. Steve Beshear, joined by a bipartisan group of legislative leaders and state university presidents, announced a plan Thursday (Jan. 10) to approve the issuance of bonds by Kentucky's public universities for campus improvements supported by university revenues.
These agency bonds will be issued by the individual universities over the coming months and will allow the schools to fund critical renovation or construction projects at no cost to Kentucky taxpayers. The projects include $22 million for the construction of an Honors College and International Center at WKU. (View a concept drawing.)
Gov. Beshear and the lawmakers plan to authorize $363.3 million in agency bonds, which will have an estimated economic impact of nearly $623 million and support 5,110 jobs. A bill will be filed soon to authorize the bonds.
"Agency bonds will meet the growing needs of our universities with no impact on the General Fund, as they will be paid for through existing revenue streams such as student fees and athletic revenues," said Gov. Beshear. "I appreciate the universities' continued good stewardship during these tough economic times. At a time when we are pushing our students to pursue higher education, it's imperative that they have adequate classrooms, housing and facilities, and the issuance of these bonds will accelerate those projects to meet those needs quickly."
General Fund support for the universities has been cut 15 percent over the last three biennial budgets. Universities need the authority to utilize other revenues to maximize student opportunities, including needed facilities that may be built or improved without general fund revenues from the state. The bonds were proposed in the last legislative session but were not authorized. No new fees are proposed to support the bonds.
Kentucky's eight university presidents are united in support of the plan, noting that accelerating these long-delayed projects will save money in construction costs and avoid additional cost burdens for students. Each school enjoys strong bond ratings, and the schools will be able to guarantee the bonds through existing revenue streams at a reasonable cost.
"The Council on Postsecondary Education and Kentucky's public universities are very grateful for the support of the Governor and legislative leaders for these projects," said Council on Postsecondary Education President Bob King. "We also appreciate the confidence this action expresses in the judgment and leadership our campus presidents demonstrate in meeting the needs of our students, faculty and staff."
The proposal includes 11 construction projects at six institutions that are ready to be financed and will move forward as soon as authorization is given by the General Assembly. Several projects will address outdated or inadequate student housing; others will improve existing classroom spaces. University presidents said these projects will provide a safer experience for students and faculty, improve campus quality of life, and avoid additional cost burdens for students.
"These 11 projects represent critical needs across our campuses," said WKU President Gary A. Ransdell. "All 11 have dedicated revenue streams that we generate at the universities, and all projects are shovel-ready, meaning they will be underway in the current biennium. The ability to make progress on these projects now is critical for higher education, and we are grateful for the leadership and support of Governor Beshear and House and Senate leaders who have all worked together to make this possible."
More: Read the full release from the governor's office.
Contact: Kerri Richardson or Terry Sebastian, (502) 564-2611.
Some of the links on this page may require additional software to view.


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Well we're at the end Fantasy Managers. What a ride it was. Where are you in the standings? Are you fixed where you are? Or perhaps one final kick at the can could bump you a few spots to a prize position?
Sporting Kansas City vs Real Salt Lake
A final is always tough to predict, but we fancy Kansas City to take the title this year and getting to do it at home should give them even more to play for.
Jimmy Nielsen ($5.7m) simple and short, we believe he's the winning keeper here.
Nielsen's season has benefited from one of the best back lines in the league. Aside from your obvious choices of Aurélien Collin ($6.8m), Matt Besler ($5.9m) and Seth Sinovic ($5.8m), it could be a savvy play to put Chris Schuler ($5.1m) into your line for pure bonus point potential.
After you select Graham Zusi ($9.5m), Javier Morales ($9.1m) and Kyle Beckerman ($8.4m) you're left with a question. What else? Well there's not many attractive prospects left, we believe this will be a tight game. A tight game catering your defensive core, so running 4-5 defenders in this defensive bonus bonanza is definitely a good idea.
It's been a fair while since we've since an MLS Cup final with no dominant strikers. Fortunately for Real Salt Lake Alvaro Saborio ($9.6m) appears healthy for the game. As we stressed, this is a defender orientated game but you must pick a forward to fill out your team. There's nothing wrong with banking on Saborio as he's arguably the most talented striker of the bunch, but our gut is saying C.J. Sapong ($8.4m) as he faired rather well in his last game and we believe he could be the man to net the decisive goal on Saturday.
It's been a long season fantasy goers with a lot of ups and downs, but I hope you've had as fun and entertaining a journey as we did. We wish you all the luck in this final and look forward to seeing your new and improved teams next year.


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Makeover Before & Afters!
Last week I had the pleasure of helping two ladies with their makeup! They're both beautiful and probably didn't need my help, but they wanted to try a new look and I was happy to give them some ideas! Plus, they were willing to do before & after pictures so I could show the transformation! Alyssa is the director of a local child advocacy center, and Leah is a teacher. Both said they wanted to develop quick, everyday looks... but once we got started, they let me go more dramatic on their eyes. So I did a full makeup application and along the way, they jotted down some of my product recommendations. Keep in mind, I am not a professional makeup artist! But I was really pleased with the Before & After shots...
- MAC Pro Longwear Foundation
- Revlon Colorstay PhotoReady Concealer (undereyes)
- ELF Translucent Mattifying Powder (lightly all over)
- Hard Candy So Baked Bronzer in Heat Wave (lightly all over)
- ELF Contouring Blush & Bronzer (bronzer to contour, blush on apples of cheeks)
- Palladio Herbal Eyeshadow Primer
- Too Faced Enchanted Glamourland Palette (Glamazon- sparkly champagne on lid, Exclusive- plummy brown in crease, Stiletto- matte black for outer V)
- Physicians Formula Felt Tip Eye Marker in black (upper lashline)
- Revlon Colorstay Pencil Liner in black-brown (lower lashline, smudged)
- Lancome Hypnose Drama Mascara
- NYX Lip Liner in Mahogany
- Lancome Color Fever Lip Gloss in Heatstroke
Leah After
- Coastal Scents HD Foundation
- Coastal Scents Concealer Palette (fair shades to even out redness)
- ELF Translucent Mattifying Powder (lightly all over)
- NYC Sunny Bronzer (lightly all over)
- ELF Contouring Blush & Bronzer (bronzer as contour, blush on apples of cheeks)
- Palladio Herbal Eyeshadow Primer
- Smashbox Eye Wish Palette (light teal on lid, turquoise in crease, charcoal in outer V)
- Physicians Formula Eye Booster Lash Enhancing Eyeliner in Brown (upper lashline)
- Revlon Colorstay Pencil Liner in Black Brown (lower lashline)
- Lancome Hypnose Drama Mascara
- Bare Escentuals Buxom Lip Stick in Bombay
- Light shimmery gloss on top
It was so fun to work with Alyssa & Leah. Not only were they fun & sweet (they gave me a gift!), but they also had totally different skin tones, so it was sort of a learning experience to do them both back to back & make the necessary adjustments. While I sort of went "all out" with their eye makeup, there were a few tips I emphasized along the way for a quick, everyday routine.
- Foundation first, then concealer. You may find that the foundation covers up certain flaws so you don't need as much concealer.
- If you don't want to go all out with liquid foundations, conceal some key areas... then top with powder. Add blush and maybe some bronzer, too!
- For eyes, be aware of all the "stopping points"- how you can just go with one light shade on the lids for added brightness, or 2 shades for a basic, natural contour.
- The girls mentioned problems with their lower liner drifting south during the day. I recommended setting cream products on the lower lashline with a coordinating shadow, then take the ELF Translucent Mattifying Powder and blot that just under the liner to absorb any oils that come from the liner.
Thanks to Leah & Alyssa for visiting my makeup room! :) Hopefully I can do more before & after blogs in the future! All brushes used were from Sigma (the Make Me Cool set)
- I gave they keynote address at the Scots Connection conference at Monmouth College over the weekend. (That's where I went to school). I spoke to about 60 students, along with faculty and other alumni. It went well and I met some Pi Phi's and Beauty Broadcast viewers! :)
- I think Tyler is addicted to re-runs of "How I Met Your Mother".
- Cupcake really missed us while we were gone for the weekend.
- I'm writing this blog on a mini laptop Tyler won at an event earlier this month :)
- Today I pranked a co-worker by putting tape over the sensor on the bottom of his mouse. That suggestion for a practical joke was tweeted to me last week.


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COLLEGE STATION – A survey collecting rates charged for custom agricultural operations will be distributed in January to select farmers, ranchers and landowners across the state, said a Texas AgriLife Extension Service economist.
"Each year, AgriLife Extension receives many requests for prevailing rates for certain kinds of work and custom farm-machine operations," said Dr. Steven Klose, AgriLife Extension economist in College Station. "This survey helps us establish a baseline of rates statewide and further assist with questions inquiring about specific custom-hire activities."
The survey takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and will be distributed by U.S. mail only, Klose said.
The survey will collect data on the following categories: tractor rental, tillage operations, planting operations, application of fertilizer and lime, chemicals-cotton harvesting, peanut harvesting, hauling and drying, combining and hauling grains, haying and silage operations, land preparation, brush control, other farm and ranch operations, miscellaneous livestock operations and consulting services.
"The final data will be compiled in a survey publication later this spring," Klose said. "Only regional and state averages will be published."
The completed publication will be available online at http://agecoext.tamu.edu. Those who do not receive a survey and would like to participate can phone 877-826-7475 or contact Klose at 979-458-1807 or firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Carlsbad Home Inspections
Residential & Commercial Real Estate Inspections Serving Carlsbad for Over 30 Years
Real Estate is usually the largest investment people will make. Many people commit to this investment without being fully aware of the condition of the property. That's why a professional property inspection by A+ Inspections is such a valuable investment!
We conduct a visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a Carlsbad property for the purpose of providing an objective, independent professional opinion about the condition of the property. Each home or commercial property inspection conducted in the city of Carlsbad is done for the exclusive use of our client and for their protection. An analysis of the property, conducted by a specially trained and completely objective inspector, can identify any non-functioning systems, damaged building components, safety issues and quality installations.
Having this information BEFORE you purchase, sell, repair or remodel can return many dividends, both financially and emotionally. Getting this information may be as simple as asking the right questions. Our professionally trained home inspectors can help provide the answers.
Home inspectors in Carlsbad provide buyers, sellers, owners, contractors, banks and lenders, with important information essential to evaluating a property's condition.
A+ Inspections, with over 30 years of experience in the field, conducts residential and commercial real estate inspections in Carlsbad using state of the art methods and equipment to provide the highest quality service and reports to our customers.


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Tech and the Olympics are a recipe for controversy. Before double-amputee sprinter Oscar Pistorius (right) was finally approved to compete in the Olympics (he failed to qualify, barely), naysayers claimed his carbon-fiber Cheetah blade prostheses gave him an advantage over non-cyborg competitors. And Speedo's LZR suit has been decried for rendering meaningless any world records that came before. But that debate is dropped entirely for the Paralympic Games, which are currently going on in Beijing and as we see in today's Big Picture, is where the sports tech comes out in force. Prosthethics tech is where some of our baddest engineers are working today, from Dean Kamen's Luke Skywalker arm to the Cheetah itself, which is one of the first prosthetic legs to allow near-natural sprinting. But beyond that, tech aids large and small are what helps level (and then raise) the playing field of the Paralympics. Whether it's super-aerodynamic sprinting wheelchairs as advanced and light as any Olympic road cycle, or simple mods to make things possible in sports where they wouldn't be for disabled athletes under normal circumstances.
More great pics as always over at: [Big Picture]


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lolo, developers behind popular fitness apps like Easy Abs and Easy Arms (two apps that have helped me get back into shape), have released 7-Minute Workout (High Intensity Training) for the iPhone. In case you're not familiar, the 7 Minute Workout first appeared on NY Times and is "based on science", where you do 12 sets of exercises in 7 minutes. It does get pretty intense during this short span – especially if you push yourself. Since reading about it a month ago, I've done a number of these 7 minute workouts and I find them great when you don't have a whole lot of time to exercise. Compared to the many 7 minute workout apps that have sprung up on the App Store, lolo's is probably the most involved of the bunch.
With the new year well underway, and, many people excited about this year's new health and fitness resolutions, I thought it would be a good idea to review a wonderful gem found in the App Store. When it comes to staying fit, our gadgets and some well chosen apps can actually give us the edge or the push needed to reach higher levels of athletic performance. If, like me, your goal is to attain better overall health while using an app that's not going to break the bank on your iDevice — and having fun at the same time — you must read on. I completed some intensive testing of an app called 'MyFitnessPal', which integrates both nutritional and physical performance metrics, turning your iPhone or iPad into a powerful training tool.
Easy Arms, the latest addition to the lineup of awesome workout apps by lolo, was released recently for the iPhone/iPod Touch. Similar to Easy Abs – the app I've been relying on to strengthen my core (see my review here) – Easy Arms focuses on getting your upper body in better shape and features over a 100 unique exercises, all of which are accompanied by video and audio guides.
With Easy Arms you can do a quick 5-minute tone up whenever you have a free moment or you can push yourself with a killer 15 minute workout. Every workout is customized to your fitness level and to the equipment you have available.
Each exercise includes an audio description to help walk you through the movement and a video you can view DURING YOUR WORKOUT, so that you can always double-check your form.
If you're looking to tone your arms, or even pump up those pythons to impress the ladies (or gents), now would be a great time to pick up Easy Arms during its current launch sale of $0.99.
 lolo, Easy Arms, – $0.99
All-in YOGA HD, a fantastic yoga app and also one of my favorite apps on the iPad, has just dropped from $4.99 to $0.99 for the next 2 days. The app lets users of all levels choose from over 40 ready-made yoga programs with different goals in mind, from health, stretching, breathing to strengthening various parts of the body. After being convinced of getting into yoga by my chiropractor, All-in YOGA basically saved me from the constant and nagging back pains, as I was able to follow along and stretch and strengthen my body without having to take classes. And being a complete yoga newbie, the videos (and voice prompts) that accompany the lessons were most useful and even neccessary. Simply put, if you're looking for a quality Yoga app (or are thinking about getting into Yoga), All-in YOGA HD for the iPad is a steal at $0.99. iPhone users can pick up All-in YOGA: 300 Poses & Yoga Classes, which recently went on sale for a buck. Take a look at the video trailer below – it'll will you a tour of what to expect from the app.
 ARAWELLA, All-in YOGA HD: 300 Poses & Yoga Classes, – $0.99
As we all know – life can be stressful. And one way to make it a little bit more bearable is using an ambient sounds app to block out the annoying noises of everyday fuss. Whether in the office or outside they allow to, at least temporarily, shift your mind to someplace peaceful. Not content with only providing a listening experience, the developers behind Inception – The App released Dimensions. Adventures in the Multiverse, a unique app that adds some original gameplay elements to make it even more part of your routine.
With 2012 just around the corner, it's highly possible that one of your New Year's Resolution is to finally work on that once-prominent six pack and get in better shape. I know it's one of mine! My biggest issue though is that I just can't find the motivation to hit the gym on a consistent basis. I've tried a number of workout apps on the iPhone, but for one reason or another, I never stuck with any of them. Well, that was until I stumbled upon Easy Abs by lolo, an awesome exercise app aimed at strengthening your core in just minutes a day.
From battery monitor to playing doctor, Philips' newly released Vital Signs Camera app lets users remotely check their heart rate and breathing rate via the camera of the iPad 2. That's right, no extra monitoring equipment or accessories are required. Simply set the iPad 2 on a table, get in position and the app does the rest. Your heart rate will be measured by the small color changes on your face (what Philips calls "micro-blushes"), where as breathing rate is calculated based on the motion of your chest. The results can then be shared online via Twitter, Facebook or email. More for kicks than anything (so don't expect the app to replace a visit to your docs' office), Vital Signs will set you back a buck, and don't forget that you actually need the iPad 2 to run it. Check out the demo video after the break.
 Philips Innovation, Vital Signs Camera – Philips, – $0.99
If you need advice on whether the food you buy is a healthy meal or a calorie nightmare, FoodMeter: Good Food or Bad Food? aims to make it easier for you to decide. The developers, Viaden Mobile, say that the app is "simply the best tool on the App Store for those who care about their bodies, want to be fit and maintain their health."
The app boasts of a barcode scanner that, with a single tap, will identify food items and evaluate how healthy they are. You can log the items or search for specific food products in a 300,000 strong database culled from restaurants and shops. The rating system is based on the widely used Food Score system which compares foodstuffs with their counterparts and rates them.
Vito Technology, the Apple Design Awards 2010 winner best known for Star Walk for iPad has come out with its latest app, Family Doctor – Symptoms and Diagnosis, available on the App Store for the iPhone and iPod Touch for $4.99. Developed together with the famous books publisher Dorling Kindersley, it reproduces the popular symptoms checker book "Home Adviser" with interactive features that make it easy and fun to use.
Nothing says "I love you" like bacon – nothing. Every mouthful broadens that love, expands that 'you'; every strip a pig sluffs for Valentine's Day returns like the frim fram sauce. iBacon, the virtual cook 'n eat app for the iDevice which has sizzled on touch screens the world over since last fall, is turning up the heat for Valentine's Day in a Twitter contest which is sure to get hot. While I'll let the contest rules drain after the gap, the prize'll get served here. If you win the Twitter contest, you win 2lbs of bacon! Yep, that is a full aught 8 or so kilograms of the sizzling stuff for Valentines!
G-Monkey Productions LLC, iBacon: a game you'll flip over! – $0.99
Contest rules and app info after the gap:


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North America's Leading Digital Manga Magazine Eliminates Time Delay To Celebrate One Year Anniversary; New Series To Join Anthology Starting With NISEKOI Debuting Today
San Francisco, CA, November 26, 2012 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest publisher, distributor and licensor of manga, graphic novels and anime in North America, will synchronize its WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA (WEEKLY SJ ALPHA), a weekly serial anthology of some of the most popular manga series in the world, to Japan releases starting with the January 21, 2013 issue.
WEEKLY SJ Alpha, available exclusively on the VIZ Manga digital platform, will feature new installments of BLEACH, CROSS MANAGE, NARUTO, NISEKOI, ONE PIECE, and TORIKO on the same day as their general release in Japan. Monthly series such as BLUE EXORCIST, RUROUNI KENSHIN: RESTORATION and YU-GI-OH! ZEXAL will debut the closest Monday after the Japanese release. There are also plans for additional series to join the WEEKLY SJ ALPHA lineup.
"North American fans have been waiting for a long time for real-time publishing to synchronize with Japan, and it's about to happen in WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA," says Alvin Lu, Executive Vice President, Publishing. "A robust VIZ Manga digital infrastructure, combined with our close relationship with WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP in Japan allows us to close the gap in release schedules. We look forward to fans continuing to look to WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA for the latest hot new manga titles straight from Japan!"
WEEKLY SJ ALPHA also launches its newest weekly manga title today as it debuts Naoshi Komi's romantic comedy series, NISEKOI (rated 'T' for Teens). In the laugh-out-loud feel-good manga series, it was hate at first sight...rather a knee-to-the-head at first sight when Raku Ichijo meets Chitoge Kirisaki! Unfortunately, Raku's gangster father arranges a false love match with their rival's daughter, who just so happens to be Chitoge! However, Raku's searching for his childhood sweetheart from ten years ago, with a pendant around his neck as a memento, and he can't even remember her name or face! For a free sample, fans are invited to check out the WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA Starter Pack, which has been updated to include Chapter 1 of NISEKOI, available from SJalpha.com and VIZManga.com!
NISEKOI, Volume 1 is also available for digital download for $4.99 (USD/CAN) VIZ Manga, VIZ Media's innovative digital platform that allows for complete interoperability to read manga from your iPhone®, iPod® touch, iPad®, and supported Android smart phones and tablets (including the Kindle Fire), with VIZManga.com for desktop/laptop computers. With one account, registered users are able to view their purchases across even more devices than ever, and the rapidly growing platform features over 1,000 volumes across 100 different series.
Each digital edition of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA treats manga fans across North America to the latest chapters of some of the world's most popular manga titles, and is available through the VIZ Manga digital platform through an annual membership that provides 52 weeks of digital access to 48 weekly issues for just $25.99. Members also receive exclusive Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME promotional cards throughout the year, an annual collector's yearbook and access to exclusive content, including creator interviews and exclusive videos.
For more information on WEEKLY SJ ALPHA and exclusive subscriber offers, please visit SJalpha.com.
To learn more about VIZ Manga and to download the VIZ Manga App, please visit VIZManga.com and www.viz.com/apps.
About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, VIZ Media distributes, markets and licenses the best anime and manga titles direct from Japan. Owned by three of Japan's largest manga and animation companies, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media has the most extensive library of anime and manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa. With its popular digital manga anthology WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA and blockbuster properties like NARUTO, BLEACH and INUYASHA, VIZ Media offers cutting-edge action, romance and family friendly properties for anime, manga, science fiction and fantasy fans of all ages. VIZ Media properties are available as graphic novels, DVDs, animated television series, feature films, downloadable and streaming video and a variety of consumer products. Learn more about VIZ Media, anime and manga at www.VIZ.com.
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Lincoln Castle
By Norman times, Lincoln was the third city of the realm in prosperity and importance.
In 1068, two years after the Battle of Hastings, William the Conqueror began building Lincoln Castle on a site occupied since Roman times.
For 900 years the castle was used as a court and prison with many being executed on the ramparts.
Many original features still remain and the wall walks provide visitors with magnificent views of the Cathedral, the City of Lincoln and the surrounding countryside.
Venue Type:
Castle or defences
10.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Sunday May to August
10.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Sunday April to September
10.00am to 4.00pm Monday to Sunday October to mARCH
Closed: Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve & New Years Day
Adults £6.00
Concessions £4.00
Family Ticket (2 Adults & up to 3 children) £16.00
Groups 15+ 10% DISCOUNT
Schools Groups £1.50 per pupil
Children 0-5 FREE
Concessionary Rate:- includes age 60+, unemployed, under 16, full-time students, those in receipt of means tested benefits.
Lincs to the Past
Our new website allows you to browse and buy images from Lincolnshire's Cultural collections. You can also view exhibitions and learning resources. There are over 500,000 images available on the website including archive documents, maps and photographs.
Lincoln Castle
Castle Hill
General Enquiries


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The 210 Merino Turtleneck
ecologyst women's standard fit long sleeve turtleneck is made of 100% Merino Wool.
- 100% merino wool 210 GSM jersey knit
- Mockneck design
- ecologyst tree embroidery on back left
- Back centre seam
- Curved hem
- Flatlock stitched seams
- Bartacks at garment stress points
- Water based screen printing ink for back neck label
Model is 5'7" and wearing size XS. Compared to its cotton counterpart, this merino turtleneck is designed to fit closer to the body. Using the merino jersey allows stretch and creates flexibility and movement.
We chose this medium weight jersey weighing in at 210 grams per square meter for its temperature regulating quality in cold and warm weather. Our 100% merino wool comes from non-mulesed sheep. We believe that should be the industry standard. Find out more: Merino Wool
Made in Canada
Take responsibility for your garments to extend its life.
- Only wash when necessary
- Do not wash in warm or hot water! Cold water only
- Suggested hand-wash
- If necessary, machine-wash on a gentle cycle with like colours.
- Remove other garments with zippers or buttons to prevent snagging
- Use biodegradable soap or detergent
- Avoid harmful bleaches or softeners
- Lay-flat to dry
- Avoid hanging storage
- Fold your merino jersey to prevent warping or stretching
Our Lifetime Guarantee
We make quality goods that we can stand behind. We test them in the wild to make sure they'll be with you for the long haul.
If your new Ecologyst goods arrive and they're not exactly what you expected, we'll happily exchange, refund or offer store credit. We want you to love your gear and use it for a lifetime.
Keep it out of the landfill.
Snagged your sleeve? Lost a button? We offer a repair program to keep your gear going strong.
Reach our team at email@example.com and we'll get you sorted.


text:
We heard last week Blake Lively was the frontrunner to play Ophelia in Oliver Stone's adaptation of Savages, though for scheduling she had to choose between Savages and Oz: The Great and Powerful. It seems Disney must look elsewhere for a Glinda the Good Witch, because Lively has signed on to Savages. Additionally, John Travolta and Uma Thurman have joined a cast that is blossoming terrifically. Taylor Kitsch, Aaron Johnson, Salma Hayek, and Benicio Del Toro have long eyed roles in the film; Deadline writes confidently tonight that all four are on board.
Shane Salerno adapted the screenplay with Savages author Don Winslow. The story centers a pair of marijuana growers (Kitsch and Johnson) who get into trouble with a Mexican drug cartel. Read the full synopsis after the jump.
The future is looking good for Laguna Beach, Calif., marijuana growers Ben and Chon, until they receive an ominous e-mail from the Baja Cartel. Attached is a photograph showing the decapitated bodies of other independent drug dealers. The message is clear: sell your product through us or else. Ben and Chon try to resist, but matters escalate after cartel thugs abduct Ophelia, the guys' beautiful young playmate and accomplice, and hold her for a cool million ransom. Meanwhile, Elena "La Reina" Sanchez Lauter, the leader of the Baja Cartel, must deal with rival drug gangs and potential overthrow from within. Ben and Chon propose a trade that Elena can't refuse, setting the stage for the violent and utterly satisfying ending. [Amazon]
Johnson and Kitsch star as Ben and Chon, respectively. Lively is Ophelia or "O," if you prefer. Hayek and Del Toro are members of the cartel. Travolta will play DEA agent Dennis. Thurman will play Ophelia's mother Paqu. This is, of course, the much anticipated Travolta/Thurman reunion audiences have been waiting for since their 2005 collaboration Be Cool.
Deadline promises there are still a few more roles to fill before production begins in June, so stay tuned for Savages casting news in coming weeks.
By the way, congratulations to Ms. Lively, who was recently (and improbably) named one of Time's 100 Most Influential People of 2011.


text:
I've created an ArrayList of structs of structs.
What's the best way to access the inner structs ?
an Enumerator is iterating through the ArrayList,
and you can access current.
I'm guessing you need get/set functions
(accessors i think) for both structs to do this ?
The Idea in C++ :
Code:iter_x->struct1_NAME->part_x = "I want to Change this container"


text:
This it just full of wins...
This it just full of wins...
Glad I'm not the only one to see a Chell/Amaya similarity... one day, that tabby's gonna snap
Your reason for hating Mike is so awesome. I love this too, you have great talent!
#10... dude, WTF?!?
hahahaha Sandy committing murder for jerkitude
KIND OF EXTREME BUT I LOVE THIS MEME best one in ages
I am amused at you shipping Lucy with everyone.
This. I love it.
Holy crap this is just wow.
oh look it's the 'make mike out to be a villain when he's reacting like a normal teenage boy' meme
also almost all the shittiest and stupidest LucyxMale pairings are here except for PauloxLucy
Can someone explain Larken to me. I must have started reading after he came up. IDK but I can't figure out who he is. Anyways, this is one of my favorite BCB memes I've seen.
you are so very amazing
seriously, a-m-a-z-i-n-g!!!
I <3 this so very much
Oh, turrets, I love you so.
No hard feelings.
The cake, is not a lie!
This is so awesome. Other than the fancharacter pairings, I love everything about it. Great drawing and choices and funnies!! Please stick around and draw more for us!!!
Why, yes, this is the awesomest thing ever. I think it's my fave meme so far!! Great work!
I fudgin love this.
@Susan: Do you have to be such a bitch about everything that you dislike? Other people have opinions too, you know
I do quite like this, it is very different than normal but the art is amazing and it's overall funny.
Also, this is nice^^
Dang different, you scary...but funny
Number Four is amazing!
This was a triumph
I'm making a note here:
It's hard to overstate my satisfaction.
Also, who's this other johnny?
Larken in the comic dude,he is the black cat with the collar
U r rude
Numb 4... i absolutly love it ;3
@lucas: why, thank you:)
God i love how you included everything wrong with mike's statement about lucy being selfish :333


text:
To become a member, you will need to download and complete the membership application form below and then send it back to us by email.
Your membership application will be submitted to the Voting Committee which meets at regular intervals. The Committee will take a decision regarding your candidacy and will inform you of the result within 10 days following their meeting.
After your candidacy has been accepted, you will receive a debit note covering a once-only admission fee (€ 1750) and the annual fees (€ 1530).
Those members who have been proposed by other members and the under-40s benefit from preferential rates.
When your payment has been received, the access codes and your membership card will be sent to you via the mail.
Moreover, the Cercle offers you the opportunity to visit their premises before you submit your application for membership. Do not hesitate to contact us by email (email@example.com).
NEW : Young Members Program


text:
A few months back we teased the short movie Reverse Parthenogenesis starring Buffy's Amber Benson (Tara) and Adam Busch (Warren). The short was penned and directed by Javier Grillo-Marxuach (The Middleman, Lost), and thanks to him, the whole shebang has been released online! Watch as sweet innocent couple banter turns into crazy antichrist finger pointing!
More from Gizmodo
Who the hell uses a pay phone nowadays?


text:
Hopefully my readers aren't tired of this NJ CCHIT bill. This will probably be my last post on the subject. Any future comments I'll just update on my original post about the bill or my post on the Financial ties to NJ Bill Outlawying Non CCHIT EHR. I just had an EMR vendor who is based in New Jersey send me an email with the message they sent to Herb Conaway and their request to meet with Herb. I encourage other people to send in their feelings to Herb Conaway on this bill and I'd be happy to publish other people's messages on this site if you're interested.
Here's the email sent from the New Jersey EHR vendor:
Dear Assemblyman Herb Conaway Jr.
I would like to request a small 15 minutes meeting with you on the ASSEMBLY BILL NO.3934 wherein you have suggested to impose the use of Certified EHR from January 1st, 2011.
As part of the bill, New section suggested is "No person or entity, either directly or indirectly, shall sell, offer for sale, give, furnish, or otherwise distribute to any person or entity in this State a health information technology product that has not been certified by the CCHIT.
As used in this section, "health information technology product" means a system, program, application , or other product that is based upon technology which is used to electronically collect, store, retrieve, and transfer clinical, administrative and financial health information.
Everything is fine with this bill, it is a good initiative except the FINANCIAL PART, CCHIT doesn't certify any product based on FINANCIAL PARAMETERS, CCHIT strictly certified EHR or EMR based on clinical parameters. That is the reason why half of the CCHIT certified products don't have PRACTICE MANAGEMENT OR BILLING PROGRAM BUILT INTO THE SYSTEM,
We , Digital Medical Billing Inc (registered under Department of Banking and Finance) are a small billing company using PRACTICE MANAGEMENT program "DigiDMS" to do billing for 32 providers' offices, in future we shall continue to use the same program, why we would be forced to switch to CCHIT certified product when CCHIT themselves don't have any criteria for Financial Data Handling as part of certification. On one side President OBAMA is trying to create more jobs, and wrong bill like this can eliminate 50 jobs which our company is offering.
We would like to meet you to discuss this in person with details of CCHIT certified products which don't have BILLING SYSTEM built into their product.
Digital Medical Billing Inc
Full Disclosure: Digital Medical Billing is an advertiser of DigiDMS on this site.


text:
Get your fully serviced premium office in Dubai Silicon Oasis for only AED 4000 / Month. Alliance Business Centers Network offering multiple sizes offices: 1) Executive offices 2) Mini corporate offices 3) Group offices 4) Company and shared offices. Our offices are located in Dubai Silicon Oasis Headquarters. In the rent are included: - Executive office. - Furniture, IT Infrastructure, service charge, repairs, utilities, cleaning, reception staff and building insurance. - High-quality luxury furniture. - Electricity, heating, water and air-conditioning included. - Welcoming reception areas, business lounges and a fully equipped kitchen. - Your mail will be sorted and delivered to you daily. - Receptionist to greet your guests and answer calls in your company name. - Beverages (coffee, tee, etc.). Please NOTE that there is NO agency commission, the offices are provided directly from our Business Centres.
Space Type:
Office Spaces
Venue Type:
Business Center/Hub
Suitable for company establishment (licensing)
Licencing Territory
Wifi (shared), Furniture (private), Telephone line (private), Electricity (shared), Receptionist(s) & Call Answering Services (shared), Mail Management, Printer/Scanner/Fax (shared), Pantry (Coffee, Tea, Water, Snacks) (shared)
Free Parking
Operating Hours:
Minimum Term:
One month
Security Deposit:
To abide by our privacy policy, exact address will be shared once booking/ request is made
Other workspaces at this venue
We want to give YOU a
5% discount on your next hourly/daily booking.
Use this discount code at the checkout - fm2016Click here if you do not wish


text:
I meant to post this review on Thursday, but a freelance assignment and my Illinois Entertainer deadline prevented that from happening.
The Anderson Council chose a pretty clever band name even if its psychedelic significance isn't readily apparent to the average rock fan. Whereas Pink Floyd took the first names of blues artists Pink Anderson and Floyd Council, Anderson Council combined the last names. On their 2001 debut, Coloursound, the New Jersey band dove headfirst into the U.K.'s mind-bending pop scene of the mid-1960s.
The opening track, "Sitting On A Cloud," sets the album's adventurous course as lead vocalist-guitarist and chief songwriter Peter Horvath spins lyrics like, "The birds in the sky can't get as high as you do/When you put your to flying." The vintage Pink Floyd influence is particularly evident on the mid-tempo "Blackboard Of Your Mind" and Syd Barrett type acoustic tune, "Red Chalk Hill." Other British artists also spring to mind; Horvath channels David Bowie on "Feet Of The Guru," the harmonies on "Hole In The Sky" are reminiscent of The Hollies; and "Never Stop Being '67" has the feel of Revolver era Beatles. There's even a paisley adaptation of a Coca-Cola jingle just for the fun of it.
The Anderson Council has a live performance next Saturday, February 9th at The Court Tavern in New Brunswick NJ.


text:
Great to start seeing some ARM tests!
Android however can die a horrible death; it's completely unreliable, buggy as hell, sucks battery, fragmented software market, zero usability testing whatsoever and all consumer/business consumer Android devices all have locked bootloaders.
I've 'downgraded' to Symbian and it's been a total plessure so far. I hope Meego/Maemo (or whatever) will find a good balance between an actual phone and the consumer "OMG Full HD!!!!111 one one eleven"-fancy pants effects phones.


text:
Robert Bazell, NBC News
A cancer drug is turning out not to be the miraculous treatment for Alzheimer's that many had hoped. Two papers out Wednesday in the New England Journal of Medicine warn families of Alzheimer's victims not to seek treatment with Targretin (generic name: bexarotene).
Last February a study from Case Western Reserve University reported that the drug rapidly cleared the clumps of protein known as beta-amyloid, the hallmark of Alzheimer's, from the brains of mice with a version of the disease. Since the drug was already on the market, approved as a treatment for lymphoma, doctors could immediately prescribe it in so-called off-label use for Alzheimer's. And thousands of families understandably asked.
But one mouse study does not prove that a drug is effective in humans. The drug is expensive – about $14,000 a year - and off-label use is often not covered by insurance. The drug can also bring on severe side-effects. In one paper in the Journal, Justin Lowenthal, Sara Hull and Steven Pearson of the National Institutes of Health and Massachusetts General Hospital conclude that for this drug "even if the patients are willing to take the risks for the potential benefit, the physician's answer should be no." In the second paper Frank LaFerla of the University of California, Irvine observes "the field has been down this road before, as successes in preclinical models have thus far not translated well into the clinic."
But the reasons for disappointment with Targretin appear to be stronger than these theoretical concerns. Word among Alzheimer's scientists is that no one yet has independently replicated the Case Western results in mice. In science, a single study has little value until it is repeated. It could be just a fluke or a mistake. No funding agency would support a clinical trial in humans of a potential drug unless the mouse study were confirmed.
These are not good times for potential Alzheimer's treatments. On Monday, Pfizer announced it was abandoning its efforts to market bapineuzumab, a drug that definitely cleared amyloid plaques in people, after a second, large clinical trial found it did not make the patients noticeably better.
The reason for this failure -- and other recent similar ones -- could be new evidence that the brain changes leading to Alzheimer's begin decades before symptoms appear. Treatment may have to start long before there is perceptible loss of memory or other mental function. "The impending tsunami of new cases and the time required for introducing a drug to the market increase the urgency of identifying new therapeutic targets and strategies," LaFerla writes. That presents a daunting challenge, but science cannot give up trying to prevent the misery and expense from Alzheimer's that is beginning to overwhelm us and will only get worse as the population ages.
Robert Bazell is NBC's chief science and medical correspondent. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter @RobertBazellNBC
Diabetes drug may someday repair Alzheimer's damage


text:
Armes's Savannah Smiles
Hips - Good
Elbows - Normal
Cerf - Clear
CNM - Clear
EIC - Clear
Armes's Savannah Smiles
Hips - Good
Elbows - Normal
Cerf - Clear
CNM - Clear
EIC - Clear
Bel Air Blue Chip Of Kinderwood- EIC Carrier (#D08-042684)
(FC AFC Cuda's Blue Ryder MH x Bel Air Brown Chip JH)
ETA: And, yes, our results are going to OFA- for anyone who's interested in seeing how many are actually submitting to OFA.
Last edited by LabLady101; 09-05-2008 at 01:51 AM.
~Darcy Litzinger~
Kinderwood Labradors
BOB AKC CH ptd/BOB UKC CH/RBISP Intl/Nat Jugend CH Hayshaker's Kinderwood Charmed One CGC "Piper"
AKC BOBP/UKC CH PTD Hayshaker Kinderwood Where R U Xmas "Faith"
Gone too soon...
HIT UCD Intl/Nat CH ptd/UKC CH ptd Bel Air Blue Chip Of Kinderwood CD RE JH CGC "Blue" 06/25/06-04/26/10...love you, "baby girl"!
Wing Magic's Louisiana Roux MH QAA
EIC Carrier
CNM Clear
OFA Good
Elbows Normal
CERF Clear
FC AFC Wing Magic's Louisiana Roux MH "Roux"
GRHRCH Bayou Magic's Tough as a Boot QAA "Boot" (still a Knucklehead)
Bayou Magic's Louisiana Belle (Knucklehead Puppy)
"Never let the fear of striking out get in your way." -- George Herman Ruth
CH Soft Maple O'Dark Thirty, CD, RN, MH, WCQ, HOF - Clear
CH Jolly Bodies Touch 'Em All Time, JH, WC - Carrier
CH Charwin Tracer, CDX, RA, MH, WCQ, HOF - -D08-039869 OFA CR-EIC1
Charwin Blacbarc She's A Blast - D08039870 OFA-CR-EIC2
CH Blacbarcs Draft Pick, RN, JH, WCQ - Research Clear - Will get the DNA test done when I have the money.
Lady Hunter
Born2Retrieve Warhawk Ceo SH (FC AFC High Tech Ceo x HRCH Warhawk Indian Princess)
CNM clear
EIC clear
Hawk is a chocolate out of two blacks with a strong black pedigree.
Last edited by born2retrieve; 09-06-2008 at 10:12 PM.
RMSDC Chinook's April Rose
Sundee's Jig A Two SH X Sundee's Winter Storm JH
EIC: LR-EIC11/81F-VPI (Normal)
CNM: LR-CNM08-814-F-PIV (Clear)
OFA Hips: LR-14800E-36F-PI (Excellent )
AKC reg: SN90601601
CKC: reg: LU764765
UKC reg : R163-395
Last edited by Wingmaster01; 02-24-2009 at 07:29 AM.
Matt Peters
Topshelf Retrievers
I received the results on my Chopper puppy today. My pup is 5 months old......
She is EIC .... CLEAR !!!!
She is also CNM .... Clear !!!
She was breed my Mike Beadle of Beadle Retrivers.
Sire: NFC FC AFC Clubmeads Road Warrior
Dam: BN's Do It Zippy.Star ***
Lets just hope her hips, elbows, and eyes come back good in about a year and a half.
Last edited by Lucky Seven; 09-11-2008 at 10:42 AM.
AFC Super High Flyer ...... EIC CLEAR! (NFC Eba x Candlewoods High Hope)
Sheza Super Hottie ...... EIC Clear (NFC Patton x Dakota's Sugarfoot)
Super Pow Wow ...... EIC Carrier (NFC Patton x Dakota's Sugarfoot)


text: Solo, a once successful novelist, is now a dismal failure. Insecure, unable to write, he has squandered his modest fortune on drugs, women and expensive therapy. To top it off, his expensive therapist suggests he get a pet to overcome his current neuroses. Not used to caring for anyone but himself, Solo's new pet Schnauzer becomes an instant thorn in his side and he sets out to rid himself of the thing, but in the process finds a whole new circle of friends and a new lover or two.


text:
Just because you're running an internet business and not meeting your customers face to face, it doesn't mean good service is unimportant. On the contrary, with so little to distinguish between so many faceless online operators, giving your customers something positive to remember you by is absolutely essential. But what can you do to make sure your customers recommend rather than forget you? Here are five ideas to give your business a boost!
1. Make sure they know what they're getting
Buying online is not the same as buying in a shop: you can't pick the item up, read the box, check the size or colour or ask the sales assistant for advice. Unless it's a widely available product which people can find out about elsewhere, you're going to be the only source of information they have. And, of course, if they have to go looking for information elsewhere, they're just as likely to buy elsewhere – probably more so! Last but not least, make the description accurate, because if your customers don't get what they're expecting, they'll just return the item. Then you really will be out of pocket, as you'll not only have to refund the cost of their purchase, but you'll still have to pay delivery charges both ways.
2. Offer them an incentive
People like to feel they're getting a bargain – check the prices of your competitors and make sure you're competitive; offer quantity discounts to encourage people to spend more; you could even give away a free gift with every order – it doesn't have to be an expensive one, but it's the sort of thing people remember!
3. Keep them informed
Make sure people know the status of their order at each stage of the process. Send an email to confirm you've received it, with an estimate of when you're likely to dispatch their purchase. Send another email when you do dispatch, so they'll know when it's likely to get to them, also telling them whether they'll need to be at home to sign for it.
4. Deliver to them safely and on time
You may not be making the actual delivery yourself, but you'll still be held responsible if it goes wrong. Find a reliable courier that you can trust to make your deliveries on time and to treat your goods with respect. Good quality packaging materials are also important – even the most careful courier can't guard against every eventuality. Going for the cheapest option in either case will nearly always be a false economy, because the money you've saved will soon be dwarfed by the lost sales and replacement costs incurred by a lost or damaged delivery.
5. Ask them to provide feedback
There are many places where your customers can tell the world about the service you've provided. If you're selling on Amazon, for instance, you'll probably already know what a positive effect a good rating can have on your sales. If you get a bad review, don't ignore it – a well-handled complaint can make as good an impression as a perfect transaction, because it shows you care what your customers think. Other sites like Trustpilot are also good for generating positive word of mouth about your business, while social media sites allow you to engage with customers and let them know about new products and special offers.
About the Author: Dave Smith is lead copywriter and blogger at Davpack packaging suppliers. At the time of writing, Davpack has a lifetime rating of 96% on Amazon and a 97% rating on Trustpilot.


text:
For a productive day at work tomorrow, give the smartphone a rest tonight.
Reading and sending work email on a smartphone late into the evening doesn't just make it harder to get a decent night's sleep. New research findings show it also exhausts workers by morning and leaves them disengaged by the next afternoon.
That means the way most knowledge workers do their jobs—monitoring their iPhones for notes from the boss long after the office day is done and responding to colleagues at all hours—ultimately makes them less effective, posit researchers from University of Florida, Michigan State University and University of Washington.
The scholars conducted two studies of workers' nighttime technology habits, sleep duration and quality, energy and workplace engagement. In the first study, 82 mid- to high-level managers were asked every morning how many minutes they used their smartphone after 9:00 pm the night before and how many hours they slept. Then, they were asked to rate their agreement with statements like "I feel drained" and "Right now, it would take a lot of effort for me to concentrate on something."
In the afternoon, they had to assess statements about work engagement, such as "Today while working, I forgot everything else around me."
Prior studies have shown that staying focused and resisting distractions takes a lot of effort, so when smartphone use interferes with sleep, it takes a toll the next day.
"The benefit of smartphone use may…be offset by the inability of employees to fully recover from work activities while away from the office," the researchers write.
After accounting for sleep quality, the researchers found that work-related smartphone use in the evening was associated with fewer hours of sleep. The subjects who recorded shorter nights also reported depleted reserves of self-control, and those who felt morning exhaustion also indicated they were less engaged during the day, a domino effect that shows how an unending workday ultimately leads to poorer work.
The second study, which involved 161 workers, measured how late-night tech use—on smartphones, laptops, tablets and TV—can disrupt sleep and next-day work engagement.
In her book, "Sleeping With Your Smartphone," Harvard Business School professor Leslie Perlow studied executives at Boston Consulting Group who were given a chance to disconnect on a regular basis. The executives became more excited about their work, felt more satisfied about their professional and personal lives and even became more collaborative and efficient.
Using any kind of electronic device affects sleep quantity and focus the following day, but smartphones are especially draining. That's partly because the always-on, always-handy phone the first device we turn to, says Christopher M. Barnes, an assistant professor of management at University of Washington's Michael G. Foster School of Business and a co-author of the paper. Having a screen so close to our faces probably doesn't help us prepare for sleep, he adds.
The researchers don't yet know if there's a particular threshold at which smartphone use begins to affect sleep habits, but even 30 minutes before bedtime can take a toll, Barnes says.
The fix, researchers say, is to put down the phone and enjoy the evening. But that's easier said than done, so long as managers send emails at 10:30 p.m. and expect responses by 10:31 pm. Barnes says real change will have to come from the top, with managers setting an example by not sending those messages in the first place, or at least toning down expectations on response time.
Read more here


text:
Milwaukee M12 Fuel 12-Volt Lithium-Ion 1/4 in. Hex Cordless Screwdriver Kit W/ Free M12 3/8 in. Right Angle Drill
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See more in Tools
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text:
It's come.
The day I have been waiting for since late February: Fruit.
(Or veggies.)
Of course hard work is still required, but seeing the fruit makes ease of toil.
One of the things that was hard for me as a gardener this week was pruning.
The tomato branches had grown too heavy for their stakes and were slumping under their own weight.
My tomatoes and zucchini had grown so full and thick that the sun wasn't able to shine through, causing the under-leaves and young fruit to wither and rot.
This was especially true for the zucchini.
You see, growth is a good thing, but pruning makes the plant healthier-- more fruitful.
It was painful for me to cut out the limbs and leaves, and yet, I know that the benefits of such discipline will yield a greater crop.
I'm learning so much from my time in the garden. The fruit I gather this summer will not be limited to what I can pick and put on a plate.
I am harvesting fruit that no one will see, but will sustain me through the year. It will carry me through those cold, wintery months when the smell of the earth and the warm humid air will be a memory...and a longing.
I will remember to prune the branches of my days and weeks, so the Sun will shine clear down to the dirt and keep my roots from rotting.
I will remember that it's OK to cut out branches that look and seem life-giving, but are really weighing things down, causing the whole plant to bend with the weight...
Yes, the fruit of the garden has come...But my crop is far greater than the eye can see.
"So neither he who plants
nor he who waters is anything,
but only God who gives the growth."
1 Cor. 3:7 - ESV