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Although it is inconceivable that people would take advantage of the elderly, there is an increasing number of senior scams targeting this vulnerable population. These unscrupulous people are skilled at gaining the trust of senior citizens so they can rob them of their money or identities.
According to senior scams statistics compiled by the American Journal of Public Health, about 5% of seniors become victims of some fraudulent schemes every year. This percentage probably doesn't even give a real picture of this problem as many scams go unreported. What's more, the FBI reports that senior people are scammed out of $3 billion every year. Considering these alarming facts, we at MedAlertHelp.org have prepared this article covering typical scams and some of the great tips for protecting against frauds.
Why Seniors Are an Easy Target
Before we move onto practical examples of elder fraud and how they can avoid becoming victims of fraudsters, let's see why the elderly are so susceptible to scams in the first place.
Many scammers play on the "relationship" card as they know that senior citizens often live lonely lives. On top of that, there is usually no one to check up on their finances. Also, a number of elderly people have memory problems or impaired cognitive function. This makes it easy for con artists to trick them into giving them money or personal details.
Another reason why scams targeting senior citizens are so frequent is that they may have large sums of money at hand thanks to their retirement savings and pension checks. On the other hand, if their financial situation is not that good, they easily fall victim to deceitful promises of getting rich quickly.
Finally, the elderly may feel embarrassed about being scammed, so they don't report the crime to the authorities. In addition, they often don't know where they can report scams. Therefore, scammers are aware that they are likely to get away with it.
Now, let's take a look at the 15 most common types of elderly fraud scams.
1. Health Insurance Scam
Health insurance or Medicare scam is one of the most common senior scams. Since all US citizens and permanent residents over 65 are eligible for Medicare, fraudsters don't even have to do any research on health insurance providers of senior people. Knowing this, they pretend to be a Medicare representative asking elderly people to give them their personal information which they use for illegal actions. In another scenario of this type of scam, con people provide seniors with phony services and use their personal information to bill Medicare and take the money.
2. Fake Prescription Drugs
A counterfeit drug scam is a type of internet senior citizen scams. As older people are trying to find medications at lower prices, scammers set up an online sale of drugs which are often counterfeit. Scamming people into buying these bogus medications is apparently big business in the USA. DrugAbuse.com reports that in 2013 alone the FDA shut down 9,600 websites offering counterfeit prescription drugs. Unfortunately, the negative consequences of this scheme are twofold. Not only are older people ripped off for money, but they buy substances that can be harmful to their health.
3. Funeral Scams
There are two types of funeral frauds targeted at elderly people. In one scenario, perpetrators read obituaries and use the information they get to contact the grieving widow or widower. When they get in touch with them, they claim that the deceased owned them a considerable amount of money, trying to extort that sum from the family of the deceased. This type of senior scams and frauds may also involve dishonest funeral homes, whose goal is to deceive family members by adding unnecessary charges to the bill. For example, they try to sell an expensive casket for a deceased who is going to be cremated.
4. Bogus Anti-Aging Products
As today's society puts great stress on physical appearance, many older people give their best to look younger than they actually are. Therefore, the cosmetics market is flooded with beauty products with anti-aging properties. A number of scammers see this as a great opportunity to capitalize on people's vanity. Some of them claim that their fraudulent anti-aging products contain all-natural ingredients that will work miracles, but they are in truth completely ineffective. Others sell fake Botox products, which are not just ineffective but can also be quite toxic. That's why it's a good idea to get yourself acquainted with the regulations concerning consumer protection for seniors.
5. Telemarketing Scams
Fake telemarketing is one of the most common senior citizen phone scams, which is unfortunately pretty successful with elderly people. Since many seniors like purchasing over the phone, they are at great risk of being conned this way. This type of fraud allows perpetrators to easily get away with the scam because there is no face-to-face interaction or any paper trail. What's even worse is that some senior people are deceived more than once in the same or similar manner.
6. Internet Scams
As more and more seniors are using the internet, there is an increasing number of fraudulent schemes taking place on the web. Being unaware of the risk they're facing while being online, elderly people easily fall into traps of unscrupulous scammers. Scamming the elderly online can happen in many different forms, from pop-ups and website advertisements to email campaigns. However, they all have one common goal, and that is to steal some kind of personal information, such as your social security number, Medicare information, and credit card details. For instance, fraudsters often send emails asking their victims to update or verify their personal information on a bogus website.
7. Investment Schemes
Being preoccupied with their financial situation and constantly worrying about whether their nest egg will last through retirement, elderly people are extremely vulnerable to investment schemes and in need of guidance. Senior citizen protection is paramount when it comes to this type of fraud because it puts them at stake of losing huge amounts of money. Scammers have come up with numerous fake investment options that seem tempting to senior citizens. They range from participating in pyramid schemes to investing in fictional businesses. Perpetrators sometimes even pose as financial advisors in order to get access to seniors' retirement funds. All these schemes are very dangerous as they can quickly deplete older people of their savings.
8. Lottery Scams
This type of fraud is common enough to be specially mentioned in the laws against taking advantage of the elderly. Fraudsters usually inform their potential victims that they have won the lottery or some other type of prize, but that they can claim it only if they make a payment. Scammers will often mail their targets a check that they can deposit in their bank account because they know that fake checks are rejected only after a few days. In the meantime, they have enough time to collect the money they receive for phony fees, even before their victims realize they have been scammed. Sometimes instead of asking for some sort of payment, scammers ask for credit card details or some other type of personal information, so always remember that nothing comes for free!
9. "Romantic" Scammers
Many seniors feel isolated as they might not be in contact with their family members. Moreover, if they have recently lost their spouse or partner, they are usually in need of companionship. Of course, fraudsters have found a way to take advantage of their situations by scamming the elderly online. They start "courting" them in order to get as much information as possible about their financial situation. Once they gain their trust, they ask for money to solve some sort of financial problem.
10. The Grandparent Scam
This type of senior citizens scams can fall under the heading of phone scams as fraudsters call a senior citizen pretending to be their grandchild. They start the conversation with "Hi, grandpa/grandma!" and ask the grandparent to guess who's calling. When the target says the name of one of their grandchildren, the perpetrator asks for a favor, which is always some kind of financial help. In addition, they ask the grandparent not to tell their "parents" about this. Since con artists don't have to do any background research for this type of fraud, it's one of their favorites.
11. Fake Credit Cards
In this type of fraudulent scheme, a scam artist pretending to work for a reputable company, such as Visa or Mastercard, will offer a senior citizen a credit card with a pre-approved spending limit. In order to get this credit card, they just need to pay an annual fee and probably give their personal information, such as social security number and bank information. Therefore, you should be very careful when someone offers you a spending limit without knowing your credit score and always contact the company directly to check if the offer is real.
12. Employment Scams
Many older people seek employment in retirement as they need extra income, opening the door to yet another type of elder financial fraud. So fraudsters want to cash in on this by offering fake job listings. When seniors decide to apply for one of these bogus positions, they need to submit their personal information including social security number. This way perpetrators easily take advantage of unsuspecting elderly people, who may even work for months before finding out that they have been scammed.
13. Vacation Scams
In this type of elderly cybercrime, scammers advertise a great vacation offer in order to get money and personal information from their targets. This "amazing" offer usually has a time limit, and people are asked to place a down payment as soon as possible. In reality, the property from the ad doesn't exist, or it is owned by someone else. However, elderly people who get scammed this way often learn that only when they arrive at the destination.
14. Charity Scams
Many fraudsters don't shy away from conning seniors out of their money by posing as charity workers. They contact their targets and tell them a sad fictional story. As they feel compassion, they easily decide to give their contribution to this charity fund. In addition, phony telemarketers may also create a sense of urgency so that their victims have no time to give more thought to the whole thing.
15. Gift Vouchers
A fraudulent scheme with gift vouchers is just an example of email scams as there are a huge number of different types of frauds involving unsolicited emails. In this one, scammers send emails that offer a free gift card for legit restaurants or retailers. However, these offers don't really come from legit businesses, but their main goal is to make you click on a link that will either install malware on your computer or ask for your personal information.
What to Do If Your Elderly Parent Is Being Scammed
If you belong to the group of senior citizens, you can never be too careful when it comes to scams targeting the elderly. You should be well-informed about various ways con artists use to take advantage of older people. Whenever someone offers you a deal that seems too good to be true, do more research on the company making this offer.
Also, in order not to become a victim of senior citizen scams, avoid replying unsolicited emails or clicking on links from unfamiliar sources. It's highly recommended not to give your personal information, such as social security number and bank account information, over the phone or online.
On the other hand, if you are concerned about a senior in your life, here are a few tips on protecting the elderly from financial abuse. Make sure your loved ones are informed on the common ways they might be scammed. Advise them not to make any impulse buys, especially if someone is pressuring them into making a quick decision. Moreover, you check in on their bank accounts in order to spot any odd purchases or withdrawals.
To Sum Up
Today there are fraudsters at every corner looking for their opportunity to take advantage, and therefore senior fraud prevention is of great importance. It's not easy to protect yourself against their devious scams, but you should at least try to give your best to reduce their chances of defrauding you. Make sure to get acquainted with seniors' online habits. Also, if you are a loved one or a caregiver wanting to protect a senior in your life, help them become aware of the risk they are facing and teach them how to recognize legitimate offers.
In any case, always report scams to the proper authorities as this is one of the best ways to prevent future senior scams.


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Barcelona have confirmed their midfielder Rafinha has agreed to sign a new contract, which will keep him at Nou Camp until 2020. The news was revealed on the club's official website on Monday.
The new deal will extend his stay with his current employers for the next five years. At the same time, his release clause has now set to €75m. The 22-year-old will sign the new deal in the "next few days."
" FC Barcelona announced on Monday morning that an agreement has been reached with Rafael Alcántara, 'Rafinha', to extend his contract until 30 June 2020. His buyout clause has been set at 75 million euros, and the new contract will be signed over the next few days," a statement read on Barcelona's official website.
Agreement to extend Rafinha's contract to 30 June 2020 https://t.co/i41g9ednjS pic.twitter.com/pScIs3uni1
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) November 2, 2015
Having joined Barcelona at a very young age in 2006, the attacking midfielder came up through the ranks of the La Liga giants' youth setup. He was promoted to Barcelona's B team in 2011.
A loan spell at Celta where Luis Enrique was the manager helped him excel in 2013-14 season. In the summer, that year, Rafinha returned to Barcelona, while Enrique was appointed as their new manager,
Having played under the new manager at Celta, the Brazil international continued to shine for Barcelona. His progress was hindered when he picked up an injury following a tackle from Radja Nainggolan in the Champions League clash against AS Roma.
Rafinha tore the cruciate ligament in his right knee and is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Barcelona fans will be happy knowing that the South American midfielder has decided to commit his future to the treble winners.

subset: commoncrawl


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Friday, November 8, 2013
Sister Act Challenge #32
My image is from another etsy shop, Birdie Brown. It was a free October image, but I didn't get my act together in time to post it in their October Challenge. Unfortunately, Torico, the talented artist behind Birdie Brown is closing the shop at the end of November. She wants to have more time to create and will continue to work on illustrating for There She Goes Stamps. You can read more about her decision to close her shop on her blog. I only recently discovered the Birdie Brown site, and am sad to see the shop close. I've purchased several digis, which you will see on my blog in the coming weeks.
I used this week's sketch from Retro Sketches for my card.
Challenges Entered:
TopTip Tuesdays - Seasons
Retro Sketches #88
Make It Monday
Divas By Design - use a digi
613 Avenue Create - anything goes
Marker POP! - anything goes
Crafty Bloggers Network Challenge - anything goes
Hiding in My Craft Room - fall colors
Crafty Boots Challenge - autumn
There She Goes #232 - Pattern Power
13 comments:
Oh! I hate to hear that she is closing her shop! Your card is fantastic!!! You've perfected EVERYTHING....coloring, paper selection, embossing, and paper piecing! WOWSA! Enjoy your weekend!!ReplyDelete
Hugs to you!
Your card is so so adorable!! Love it!ReplyDelete
I like the fussy cut image on all those interesting layers - and the button on that little snip of ribbon is a fun detail! If I had thought of using pieces of ribbon that short like that before, I would have saved yards of ribbon over the years! LOL! The bad news is that I will be hoarding even more tid-bits! Thank you for playing "Anything Goes" at our house!ReplyDelete
~ginny, DT for 613 Ave. C
Personal blog: RubberMAD at GettyCollection.com
Such a fun fall card!!! Love your layout and the papers you used. I especially love your embossing! Great image too! Thanks so much for joining us this week at HIMCR!!!ReplyDelete
What a GREAT, FUN fall card! Love your paper choices...and love your coloring! Thanks for joining us this week at Hiding In My Craft Room for our Fall Colors challenge. Hope you join us again soon. (and Good Luck!!!)ReplyDelete
Kathy HIMCR DT
This is delightful! I am sorry to hear that Birdie Brown is closing. I guess I need to stock up. You have presented this image perfectly! Love the embossed layer behind your image, it adds so much visual interest to the design. Your background paper is perfect, and of course, your coloring is awesome as usual! Thanks so much for leaving this on our front steps here at 613 Avenue Create!ReplyDelete
Chana, Owner
Love all the layers and colours of your card - perfect for our challenge. Thanks for joining in at Crafty Boots Challenges this time.ReplyDelete
Beautiful colouring of fun image and pretty papers . Thanks for sharing on Make it MondayReplyDelete
Fabulous card, great layering and really cute image. Thank you for playing along with us at Crafty Boots challenges.ReplyDelete
Fabulous card and image. Visiting from MIM..LozReplyDelete
Adorable!!! Thanks for playing along with There She Goes Challenge!ReplyDelete
This is gorgeous. Love the design with the layers,embossing and added button and love your colouring as well. Thanks for playing at Top Tip Tuesday and good luck. Hope to see you back tuesday for another challenge. Bettina DT Member at Top Tip Tuesday xxReplyDelete
Cute! Good luck in our Crafty Bloggers Network challenge. Sarah DT xxReplyDelete


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Student Instructions
Use this activity with the Global Read Aloud book, Stella Diaz Has Something to Say. 1. Tap and then find and tap your name. 2. Use the tool to add labels into the boxes on the character map or use the tool. 3. Optional: Use the to add your voice to describe Nick even more deeply. You can even point with the tool as you speak. 4. Tap twice to save to your journal.


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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Getting your ZZZ's may be more important than you realize. A new study of women suggests that short sleep duration combined with frequent snoring may impact cancer survival, especially in those with breast cancer.
The analysis involved more than 21,000 postmenopausal women who were diagnosed with cancer during the study follow-up period. They had reported their sleep habits at the beginning of the study.
Results show that women who had reported sleeping 6 hours or less per night and snoring 5 or more nights per week were 2 times more likely to die from breast cancer. They were compared with women who reported sleeping at least 7 hours nightly with no snoring.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that adults should sleep 7 or more hours per nightto stay healthy! Here are 10 tips to help you get more sleep:
- Keep a consistent sleep schedule. Get up at the same time every day, even on weekends or during vacations.
- Set a bedtime that is early enough for you to get at least 7 hours of sleep.
- Go to bed when you feel sleepy, even if it's before your bedtime.
- If you don't fall asleep after 20 minutes, get out of bed.
- Establish relaxing bedtime rituals.
- Make your bedroom quiet and relaxing. Keep the room at a comfortable, cool temperature.
- Limit exposure to light in the evenings.
- Don't eat a large meal before bedtime. If you are hungry at night, eat a light, healthy snack.
- Avoid consuming caffeine in the late afternoon or evening.
- Avoid consuming alcohol before bedtime.
Women are under-diagnosed for sleep apnea, 6-to-1. If you live in Alaska, call Alaska Sleep Clinic for your free consultation.


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Prayerline serves as a twenty-four-hour helpline with the Christian emphasis of prayer and provides a source of hope to those feeling lost and distressed. The needs we hear about range from family issues to finances, emotional issues, and health issues. Volunteers who believe that God has a plan for your life staff Prayerline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. "…if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven." -Matt. 18:18.
Thousands have seen the difference it makes to talk with a prayer partner about their problems and receive agreement through prayer.
Prayer is the turning of the Human Soul to the Living God! Send us your prayer request or call 1-800-365-3732.


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Villhem Heiberg
Biography of Villhem Heiberg
Villhem Heiberg enrolled at the University of Glasgow in 1901 for two years to study Naval Architecture, Practical Ship Drawing and Mathematics. He went on to work as a shipbuilder.
Villhem was born in Thisted, Denmark. He was one of thirteen children of Abelone Marie Bonne and the famous Danish doctor and surgeon Peter Wilken Heiberg.
Villhem Heiberg
Born 28 February 1897.
Died 28 December 1936.
University Link: Student
GU Degree: Science and Engineering, 1901-02;
Occupation categories: engineers, naval; shipbuilders
Record last updated: 11th Jun 2013
University Connections
University Roles
- Student
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Carers Trust offers a wide range of resources and information for anyone who works with carers. To find a resource, please use the search options in the right hand column or search through the list below. If you have any queries about our resources, please contact email@example.com.
If you would like to reproduce all or part of any of the resources on this website please read our copyright guidelines.Filter resources
Young Carer Voice: Consultation Event
In 2021, Carers Trust Scotland hosted an online Young Carer Voice: Consultation Event as part of the Scottish Young Carers Festival. This event provided a platform for young carers to share their views on a range of topics, take part in meaningful consultation in an interactive way and speak directly with decision makers. This report and poster summarises issues raised by young carers, action taken by Carers Trust Scotland and how decision makers can support young carers in their role.
About Time Grant Evaluations
These independent evaluations review the successful delivery of the two About Time Grant programmes, Time for Change and Take Action and Support, which addressed the issues that can lead to young adult carers becoming disengaged from society.
COVID-19 In Scotland
A report detailing the experiences of unpaid carers and carer service support workers in Scotland, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The report makes a series of recommendations and suggestions to support carer service support workers as they move out of the crisis phase of the pandemic.
Young Carers in Education A Resource on Identifying and Supporting Young Carers in Education
Carers Trust Scotland's Young Carers in Education Toolkit accompanies our Digital Education Hub for all staff in Scotland working with young carers in schools.
The Student Carer Experience in Scotland
The research illuminates the lived experiences of student carers across Scotland's colleges and universities, including the perspectives of those supporting them. Through an investigation of the challenges student carers face, and the barriers to accessing support, the research makes recommendations and suggestions to improve the studying experience for carers.
Engaging with Pharmacies
Pharmacies are visited by about 1.6 million people every day in England so they are ideally positioned to identify carers of all all ages including young carers. They can therefore play a key role in the early initiation of assessment and support which can be life changing. This toolkit is aimed at young carer services to support them to work collaboratively with pharmacies. It draws on the Young Carers Pharmacy Project that took place between 2014 and 2016.
Time to be Heard: A Call for Support for Young Adult Carers
Young adult carers are disadvantaged in their education, employment and wellbeing. These reports present evidence on the impact of caring unpaid for a family member or friend on the lives of young adult carers, using research carried out by the University of Nottingham. It represents the first large-scale survey of young adult carers aged 14-25. Reports cover England, Scotland and Wales.
Young Adult Carers and Employment
In 2013, Carers Trust commissioned the University of Nottingham to undertake research to examine the experiences and aspirations of young adult carers with regards to school, further and higher education, and work.


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Well, Spring Break is over for both my children who are still in school. It was very nice to have them home. I had them one at the time, so I could spoil them individually. I don't like this, I rather have my full family at the same time. But that's how it works and I can't do anything about it. I missed my oldest son who is racing in Europe (he is a professional cyclist) but he doesn't have spring breaks anymore, I won't see him until the summer, but he is very good at keeping in touch with e-mails, texts and FaceTime calls.
Anyway, when my children where home, they both told me (separately) how in my posts I have mishaps, grammar and spelling errors, and phrases that they can see I am translating from spanish and they don't write them like that in english. We where laughing and laughing! I was defending my writing and they where trying to make me understand that they don't say it that way in english much less write it. I speak spanish to all my family, I don't want my children to forget their spanish, besides, it feels awkward to talk to them in english. English is my second language and I still speak more spanish than english on a daily basis.
Then, just two days ago, I was talking to my oldest son, and turns out he was correcting me too!!! So then I tought that they MUST be right!!
After laughing for a little bit, I kept thinking, am I such a bad writer? I hope not, and hope you can understand my ideas and my recipes. So… I truly apologize for all the dumb things I've written and might still write! Just laugh with me and not about me, and thank you for still follow me 🙂


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What is Costco's secret? The large retailer has weathered the downturn of the economy while still maintaining its low prices for customers and great pay and benefits for employees. Competitor to Wal-Mart and Amazon, Costco is known for its membership in order to shop. Customers pay $55 a year to shop at Costco, which carries everything from diapers to diamonds. Despite the usually dismal background of unsatisfied employees in retail, employees at Costco are some of the happiest employees in the US. At a time when companies were laying off employees by the thousands to cut costs, Costco was giving its employees pay raises. So how does the CEO, Craig Jelinek, do it?
He established a culture that stresses the importance of employees. Costco's culture focuses on keeping employees happy. This culture has led to low employee turnover, engaged employees, and high productivity. Profits follow close behind. Happy employees create a work environment that creates a space for customers to enjoy themselves. Why spend the time in a store with cranky employees? The low prices have drawn in a steady crowd of customers for Costco, but it is the happy environment that keeps customers coming back for more.
The effects of keeping employee wages up and customer prices low are highlighted at Costco's headquarters. There's nothing fancy in Jelinek's office, just the basics. The carpet is fading and the desks are plain, but that doesn't matter to the CEO. The money is being sourced to where its important, the employees. Maintaining happy employees is Costco's key to success. Low employee turnover has drastically increased the ROI of hiring employees. Reduced turnover leaves less money spent on recruiting and hiring new employees and more money circulated back into the company.
Costco's no-frills culture is visible when comparing the state of Jelinek's office to the state of one of the many stores located throughout the U.S. The focus is on providing for employees at every level, not just the executives. Employees are happy and content with their careers at Costco, which is easily the reason it is so successful and profitable.
Costco CEO Craig Jelinek Leads the Cheapest, Happiest Company in the World – Businessweek.


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Seamen's Church Honors Industry Leaders At Annual Awards Dinner
More than 400 guests gathered at The Seamen's Church Institute's 16th Annual Awards Dinner to honor David A. Olsen, chairman and CEO of Johnson & Higgins, a large privately-held insurance brokerage and employee benefits consulting firm, and others for their contributions to maritime safety.
The Awards Dinner raised $65,000 for the Institute's 1994 Annual fund.
Mr. Olsen received the Silver Bell Award, which is presented annually by the Institute to an individual in recognition of his or her outstanding leadership in the maritime community.
The bell was chosen as an award because of its historical significance in religious ceremonies from early times and its use on board ships in ancient times.
Sharing in the honors of the evening were several people who through personal or professional endeavors have also contributed to maritime safety. The Institute gave Lifesaving Awards to the following people: Sandy Hook Pilot Apprentices Tom Walsh, Kevin McNamara, Paul Klein and New York City Police (Scuba Unit) OfficersDaniel Sharkey and John Dalton for carrying out a heroic effort to rescue a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter crashed near Ambrose Light last fall as Hurricane Emily approached New York Harbor, and U.S. Coast Guard Group New York whose icebreakers assisted 367 vessels in the 1994 ice season.
The Institute gave Distinguished Service Awards to VAdm. Paul A. Welling upon his retirement from the U.S. Coast Guard, and Charles L. Black, Jr., a scholar and the coauthor of The Law of Admiralty.
This year, the Institute also introduced the Seamanship Award, which recognizes the accomplishments made by recreational boaters to the maritime community. Ted Seymour, the first African-American to sail around the world was the first recipient of this award.
For more information on The Seamen's Church Circle 9 on Reader Service Card


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Photo features Emilia Hurd, cycling in Durham.
Photo Courtesy Kevin Cooper
This post was originally published October 7, 2015 from the Tales from the Greenbelt blog, on Greenbelt.ca.
by Kevin Cooper
The Greenbelt Route is now a reality — I've ridden it from end to end in both directions, and have found hundreds of ideas for how to explore this stunning near-urban landscape from the seat of my bicycle. Ontario's Greenbelt has so much to offer at this time of year, and the cooler weather in spring and autumn make these shoulder seasons some of the most comfortable times of year to ride a bike. With the bulk of farm crops now coming off the fields, what better time of year for a bicycle farm market tour?
To celebrate the Greenbelt cornucopia, I have organized this weekend cycling getaway in the regions of York and Durham. It's a two-day overnight trip that highlights a number of farm fresh hot spots in this productive agricultural region. All the tasty, local stops en route can be found on the new Greenbelt Route interactive website, and this custom "farm by bike" tour is ready just in time for the harvest season!
Photo taken south of Brantford (a distance from the Greenbelt Route).
Photo Courtesy Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation
Please note that I took care to avoid busier roads, but that I have yet to ride this particular route.
Route Description:
Day One
Head north along the Greenbelt Route from Stouffville, following Ninth Line up past Musselman's Lake to the historic hamlet of Mt Albert. Take your time browsing the local shops, services and a variety of restaurants. From here, head north along Centre St to link up with the hamlets of Zephyr and Udora. It's worth a stop at the old grist mill in Udora before wrapping up your day in Pefferlaw where you will find a host of dining options and accommodations along the Pefferlaw river, down to the river mouth at Lake Simcoe. Take in the sunset, and consider that you just cycled right over the Oak Ridges Moraine, the "rain barrel of Ontario."
Stops En Route:
Musselman's Lake — After a big climb out of Stouffville, be sure to take a rest by the water. Pull over here for a big scoop of Kawartha Dairy ice cream before heading on.
Mt Albert — Not lost yet? Step off the bike and into Cooper's CSA Farm and Maze (266 Ashworth Road) for a real navigational challenge! It's also worth visiting Brooks Farms (122 - 141 Ashworth Road) as they are hosting their awesome Fall Fun Festival that has been getting bigger and better every year for the last decade. So many fun activities! Festival cost is $14 per person (children 2 and under get in free). Note there is no entry after 4 p.m. Fall Fun Festival runs on weekends starting September 12 and ending October 31.
Zephyr — It's worth the trip to Zephyr Organics (10900 Concession 4), where you can select your own vegetables, fruits and herbs and see the farm for yourself! Get to know your farmers, and consider signing up for a weekly or biweekly food box from their 20-week CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) season. The farm is open from 10 a.m. to 6p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Photo taken in Niagara on the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association 2008 Summer Tour.
Photo Courtesy Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation
Udora — Catch a glimpse of the Peers' Grist Mill (Peers' Lane), one of the last functioning gristmills in Ontario. Harking back to a time when grain was a major agricultural crop in the area, this mill was built in the 1860s, and was recently designated a building of historic and architectural significance under the Ontario Heritage Act.
Pefferlaw — There are a number of places to eat in town here, or just take a break at the Pefferlaw dam and Conservation Area. There are several B&Bs located just a short ride north towards the Lake Simcoe shoreline — the sunsets are not to be missed. Be sure to arrange your accommodations ahead of time.
Day Two
Make your way out of Pefferlaw by heading east to Cannington. Access the Beaver River Wetland Trail from Laidlaw St South, and follow the trail south alongside the Beaver River. Here you can savour the smells, sights and sounds of the pristine and largely undeveloped Beaver River wetland. Take your time — you may spot a species of special concern such as the black tern or Western chorus frog. At Blackwater, bear right onto the Trans Canada Trail and continue south. This trail continues right into the town of Uxbridge, a vibrant community with a host of shopping, dining and recreation options. Link back up with the Greenbelt Route just south of Uxbridge, and continue back to Stouffville to wrap up a perfect harvest tour!
Stops En Route:
Cannington — The post office is located on Cameron St, and there are several village restaurants, banks, stores and shops. Pop in to Holy Grounds Café (1 Cameron Street West) for a breakfast featuring local farm products before heading out for the day.
Blackwater — Watch for abundant wildlife as you travel along the Beaver River Conservation Area and Recreation Trail. Common sightings include great blue heron, red-winged blackbirds, muskrats and beavers in the wetland. Watch carefully and you may see species of special concern, such as the black tern or the Western chorus frog. For a farm stop, peel off towards Foggy River Farm (315 Concession 2, Sunderland), a small-scale permaculture farm that produces organic fruits and vegetables. The lead designer and Farm Manager here co-founded Fresh City Farms, an urban farming company based in Toronto.
Uxbridge — Enjoy a lunch featuring local ingredients at the Urban Pantry Restaurant (86 Brock Street West) and be sure to check out the Whimsical Lion Country Market (1-24A Toronto Street North) to browse some Greenbelt antiques before heading off for the afternoon.
Glen Major Forest — For a change of pace, step off your bike and stretch your legs on this Greenbelt Walk. Did you know that rainwater falling on Glen Major filters through the sand and gravel of the Oak Ridges Moraine, replenishing groundwater reserves and feeding wetlands and streams? Duffins Creek flows from here through the Greenbelt to Lake Ontario, and is one of the healthiest watersheds in the region. While hiking, look out for signs of past uses such as foundations of old farm buildings and the rehabilitated gravel pit. It's a straight shot back to Stouffville, so enjoy this finale to a perfect two-day ride. You've earned it!
125 km, over 2 days (around 60 km on day one, and around 65 km on day two).
Experience Level:
This is a moderate to advanced road and rail-trail ride. For tips on what to bring for an overnight bicycle tour, check out the What to Bring section at the Greenbelt Route website.
Route Surface:
Mostly paved, with a rail-trail between Uxbridge and Cannington. The rail-trail features hard-packed gravel suitable for most types of bicycles.
Related on the dandyBLOG:
Greenbelt route launching this month: Ontario cycling tourism gets a boost
Exiting Toronto by bike: Ride to Rouge Park
Exiting Toronto by bike: Ride to Albion Hills
Exiting Toronto by bike: Western Waterfront Route
Exiting Toronto by bike: Ride from Pearson


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Our Tenants Come First
As a tenant of Black Holdings, for well over 5 years I can and will say that it has been a great experience. Victor, Kevin and Teresa have gone out of their way to take all stress from any call for repairs, they encourage us to call them if we find anything wrong. The response time for repairs is great same day or first thing next morning depending on problem. Rental in now for over 3 years and no major repairs and only couple small incidents, would be the first people I would recommend.
Willie McEwen


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Introduction: Tropical Lime Cheesecake (No Bake!)
No bake cheesecakes are the best for summer! No oven needed and so easy to make, plus NO FAIL, guaranteed ;-)
Step 1: Ingredients and Method
1 c graham cracker crumbs (if its not available at your store, make yourself by crushing the crackers in food processor or using pestle and mortar, if not your rolling pi or even bottle!)
3/4 c sweetened flaked coconut (don't like coconut? no problem, just add up 3/4 c more of crumbs)
6 tbsp butter, melted (no butter? no problem, you can use margarine or shortening - butter flavor preferred)
1 box lime flavored gelatin mix (such as Jell o)
1/2 c hot water (boiling water)
3 boxes cream cheese at room temperature, at 8 oz each
1/2 c sugar + 2 tbsp sugar
2 c heavy cream
1 tsp grated lemon zest and 1/2 tsp grated lime zest
1/2 of lime, squeeze juice out (optional)
3 drops yellow liquid food coloring (optional, this makes nice darker green cheesecake than the one on picture)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 limes for decoration, slice, optional
Mix crumbs, coconut and melted butter well. Press on bottom of 8 inch spring form pan. Line lime slices as shown on picture (optional), set aside.
Whisk together gelatin and boiling water until dissolved, let cool.
On a medium high speed, beat cream cheese and 1/2 c of sugar until fluffy for 2-3 minutes. Lower the speed to low, beat in 1 c heavy cream until combined. Turn on to medium speed, beat until thickened for a minute or two.
Back to low speed, beat in gelatin mixture, zest, juice and food coloring if using, until blended.
Spoon mixture into crust, cover and refrigerate until set, at least 6 H.
Slice and serve as is or you can decorate by using the last cup of heavy cream:
Beat 1 c heavy cream and 2 tbsp sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Pipe and decorate or put a dollop of cream on each sliced cheesecake.
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3 Comments
Thank you for making me drool on my keyboard! ~.^
awh yeah! no-egg cheese cake!
Oh, wow, this looks so good! I love cheesecake. I'm going to have to try this recipe.


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Preparing Fact Sheets about Dinosaurs
With the end of the autumn term nearly upon us, it is time for Everything Dinosaur team members to undertake a review of all the fact sheets on dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals that the company sends out to schools, home educators, museum staff and young dinosaur fans. For the vast majority of the prehistoric animal models that the UK-based company sells, a fact sheet about that creature is commissioned. Having a fact sheet about a dinosaur for example, is our way of helping to educate and inform people about life in the past.
Prehistoric Animal Fact Sheets from Everything Dinosaur
Picture Credit: Everything Dinosaur
Helping to Educate and Inform
Everything Dinosaur's fact sheets and other teaching resources are available free on request. Team members are happy to email them out to schools, other institutions and interested parties. Simply, drop us an email stating what you would like and our dedicated staff will do all they can to assist you and supply your needs.
Contact Everything Dinosaur: Email Everything Dinosaur
An A-Z of Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Animals
From Acheroraptor to Zuniceratops, Everything Dinosaur has hundreds of prehistoric animal data sheets. Each one has a scale drawing which shows the estimated size of the animal. More fact sheets are added each year, the company has plans to commission another thirty in 2019. Researching, writing and producing these fact sheets is quite an undertaking, fortunately, team members can call upon the expertise of their palaeontologist chums to assist them in their compilation.
All the Fact Sheets Contain Scale Drawings
Picture Credit: Everything Dinosaur
A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur commented:
"At the moment, team members are busy compiling prehistoric animal fact sheets to help support the work of schools, home educators and other institutions. It's our way of helping to educate and inform people about life in the past."


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Best Practice of Higher Education Tridarma Application for Tourism Field: A Case Study Creating Wonosalam Ecotourism Village
Dutha, I Dewa Gde Satrya Widya
Limbing, Lexi Pranata B.
Kaihatu, Thomas Stefanus
MetadataShow full item record
Higher Education Tridarma consists of education, research and community service, is the main task carried by every lecturer in Indonesia. The Tridarma application in the tourism field is run at the Business Studies Program of Hospitality, Faculty of Tourism, Ciputra University. This article describes best practice of Higher Education Tridarma application with case study on downstream research through community service program with title "Creating Wonosalam Ecotourism Village". Statement of the problem in this research is how the Higher Education Tridarma application in tourism field at Ciputra University? This article describes the Higher Education Tridarma application in the tourism field. This research uses descriptive qualitative approach. Primary data sources obtained through the documentation of the Higher Education Tridarma of Ciputra University. The conclusion of this research is, first, the obligatory service research become implementation source of community service and education. Community service is a research downstream conducted by a lecturer of the Hospitality Business Study Program, Faculty of Tourism, Ciputra University. In addition, community service is also the actualization of education in the community according to the competence of each lecturer. Second, integration of education and research with the community Service downstream, making Wonosalam Village as an assisted village, or science-techno park Ciputra University.


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Keep your garden—and the planet—healthy with these climate change-curbing practices
Before planting the first pansy, get the soil in shape by amending with organic compost. By adding organic matter, both soil health and plant growth are improved. Organic soil holds moisture effectively and gives plants and their roots a variety of nutrients, while also trapping atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2 is a major greenhouse gas).
Embrace low tilling (a method of not disturbing the soil with excessive digging and turning over) because tilling releases CO2, which our air doesn't need more of. Another benefit of low tilling is that the cycling of nutrients is increased and soil erosion is greatly reduced.
Purchase produce locally at farmers' markets or grow your own to cut down on CO2 from transportation trucks used to deliver the goods. A harvestable home garden will also save you money on grocery bills, teach kids where their food comes from, and reduce your exposure to pesticides.
No-mow lawns are an excellent alternative to traditional thirsty grass because they use less water and require less maintenance by gas-powered and air-polluting mowers and trimmers. Numerous no-mow options exist, from traditional fine fescue blends to less traditional styles created with low-water thyme or succulents.
Create a varied ecosystem in your garden and not an unhealthy monoculture. By planting a variety of annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees, you create different types of habitats, attract diverse beneficial insects and pollinators, and ultimately make your garden stronger and less susceptible to pests and drought.
Even organic fertilizers create NO2, another greenhouse gas, when they break down. Use fertilizers sparingly and avoid chemical pesticides that leach into the ground and harm insects, fish, and wildlife. By rejecting chemicals, you also support a system that is less reliant on fossil fuels. Consider making your own garden remedies from simple ingredients like Epsom salt, castile soap, or yogurt.
An attractive and smart use of our precious natural precipitation is to install a rain garden or rain barrel. By collecting and reusing rainwater, you are protecting the water quality of local lakes and rivers and conserving our depleting water supplies.
If you haven't already, consider installing a smart irrigation timer that has built-in water-saving features including a sensor that adjusts to optimal watering times based on local weather conditions. Also remember to set your system to water in the morning while it's still cool and to water deeply and less frequently to encourage strong, deep roots.
Any plant you add to your garden helps out by increasing oxygen. However, you can take it a step further by planting natives that are well adapted to your area and use fewer resources. Adding well-chosen native plants also provides vital habitats and food sources for local birds, wildlife, and endangered species.
Incorporating houseplants into your living, working, and sleeping spaces helps remove toxic VOC's (like formaldehyde and ammonia), which are produced by chemicals and solvents in furniture, computers, and certain cleaning products. All indoor plants give off necessary oxygen, but certain plants are better at scrubbing the air, such as Boston fern, spider plant, and peace lily.


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Marvin Pietruszka, MD, JD, Laboratory Director :
Dr. Pietruszka is trained in internal medicine, pathology, and forensic toxicology. He is a Diplomate Laboratory Director American Board of Pathology (Anatomic and Clinical), Diplomate American Board of Preventive Medicine (Occupational Medicine), and Diplomate American Board of Forensic Toxicology. He has unique expertise in chart review, standard of care, slide and record review, clinical/pathological correlation and causation analysis. His experience includes case preparation of medical malpractice, personal injury, and wrongful death. He is the director of Del Carmen Medical Center and Psychemedics Inc. Toxicology Laboratory. Academic positions include clinical associate professor of pathology at University of Southern California. He has been Director of molecular laboratory for over 15 years, and leads the group along with Dr. Yadira Valles-Ayoub to develop meaningful diagnostics and treatment for rare diseases.
Yadira Valles-Ayoub, MD, PhD, Director of R&D :
Dr. Valles-Ayoub is an expert in developing robust, reproducible, reliable, and rapid molecular assays. She completed medical training and specialty in Hematology-Oncololgy, followed by MS and PhD training in Molecular Immunology, at UNAM, Mexico City. She was the head of department of Immunology and the General Hospital and professor of Pathology at UNAM during 1979-1986. Subsequently, Dr. Valles-Ayoub moved to the United States and joined at UCLA department of pathology from 1986 - 1996. Dr. Valles-Ayoub's experience includes holding senior scientist and director of research and development positions in industry during 1996 - 2004. During 2004-2015, Dr. Valles joined HIBM Research Group, and worked on developing diagnostic assays and therapeutic gene therapy for rare diseases such as GNE Myopathy (a.k.a HIBM). She is a founding member of the laboratory and continues her leadership in developing and offering rapid solutions for Genetic Diagnostics. She developed a Genetic Middle Eastern panel that will help families of Middle East origin struggling with premarital or prenatal risks of rare debilitating genetic diseases. Dr. Valles-Ayoub has authored and co-authored numerous published scientific papers on HIBM and other rares diseases.
Dr. Michael Robinson. 310-419-4303
Dr. Michael Robinson is a physician specialist in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism with over 30 years of experience as a clinician and research clinical investigator. Dr. Robinson is a graduate of The Ohio State University, College of Biological Sciences in Columbus, Ohio and received his M.D. degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He did his medical internship at Ohio State University and a medical residency at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan following military service as a Captain in the United States Army Medical Corps. He later completed his Fellowship in Endocrinology and Metabolism at the Mayo Clinic and Mayo Graduate School of Medicine in Rochester, Minnesota where he was also a Mayo Foundation research fellow in bone and mineral metabolism. He has served as Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine and Clinical Attending Physician at UCLA School of Medicine and has been a Director of community Diabetes and Osteoporosis programs in the Greater Los Angeles area. He is a member of numerous professional organizations including the Endocrine Society, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), and the American Thyroid Association. Dr. Robinson has published in major medical peer reviewed journals, and is a Certified Physician Investigator (CPI) and Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is currently an attending staff physician at Marina Del Rey Hospital, Little Company of Mary Hospital, Torrance Memorial Hospital, and Centinela Hospital Medical Center. He is CEO and CMO of Platinum Health Partners.
Gabriela Gutierrez, BA, Administrative Officer:
Gabriela Gutierrez graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor's of Arts in Management from California State University Northridge. She joined our group in October 2009. Gabriela started as an administrative assistant and after completing her training she became an administrative officer. She is now managing the office, billing department as well as organizing and coordinating clinical laboratory services. Gabriela coordinates meetings and appointment with our clients. Gabriela is going to Law School.
We have volunteers from different universities that want to make curriculum for graduate school.


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2.5 oz Taffers Cosmopolitan Mix
1.5 oz Citrus vodka
1.5 oz Champagne or Prosecco
¼ cup frozen berries
Add Taffers mix and vodka into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously. Place frozen berries into a chilled cocktail glass. Strain cocktail mixture into the glass. Top with champagne or prosecco.


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INTERGEO always throws up something new. The key things to take away from the show this year revolve around how tough the industry is and new technology. This is the first of two blog posts sharing my thoughts from the show this year. In this post I will be sharing observations regarding how tough the industry is in Europe and the rise of Africa.
INTERGEO never disappoints and the 2016 edition was as rewarding, challenging, informative and exhausting as its predecessors. Whilst INTERGEO has its place as a conference and exhibition, for many, including Getmapping, its biggest role comes as a physical and mental meeting point for the geospatial industry, allowing everyone to come together and both reflect on the year just gone and look to the future.
Look out for my second post regarding new technology - in particular; UAVS and the Xcam.
The Aerial Survey Industry is Tough
Every year I have the pleasure of catching up with colleagues/rivals from across Europe and Africa, and each year we compare notes on the season just gone. Some have had a decent year due to good weather and minimal issues with their equipment, and others have had a tough time due to lack of weather, increasing ATC restrictions and bad luck with some of their kit.
But the common theme is that it is a tough industry, and everyone is looking to make their business more predictable and consistent against strong head winds – prices are only going one way (down) whilst costs continue to rise. It is no coincidence that the big stands at INTERGEO belong to the providers of equipment not services on the whole!
This toxic mix of descending prices and increasing operating restrictions cannot go on and it is no wonder that many survey companies are struggling and that there have been some high profile casualties in recent years.
As one colleague commented, there is enough work around in Europe for everyone to do well, but we are constantly guilty of over-competing with each other on price. In the end if this trend isn't checked, it will impact on the quality of deliverables and the end customers, who may be rejoicing in lower prices today, may ultimately start to pay the price through the quality of the service they receive tomorrow.
As one such aerial survey company, we have to accept that the price of maintaining our standards will be to lose one or two jobs on price along the way. Similarly, major clients need to play their part by making sure that the weighting on their evaluation of bids and quotes truly reflects the value of the output to them, and this extends much deeper than the just the cost of the service into the cost to the end users from not having the right tools to do their jobs.
The Rise of Africa
Over the last few years, major companies have been showing more and more interest in the emerging markets in Africa. Getmapping, through its African Survey subsidiary Geosense, has been operating in Africa for sixteen years and in that time we have seen the market for geospatial services in Africa grow rapidly.
There was noticeably more interest and enquiries about Africa this year, and this is a trend that has been increasing in the last few years. As a result, it was good to have all of the senior Executive Team from Geosense at the show and on the stand this year to experience INTERGEO and promote the great work we are doing in Africa.
Geosense operates across most of sub-Saharan Africa from our main base in South Africa, and amongst other things this year we were celebrating the imminent opening of our new office in Namibia as we continue to grow.
The value of having a permanent point of presence in country can't be overstated, and through our own offices and those of key partners, we now have direct representation across the whole of Southern Africa
Over the next few years I expect Africa to continue to grow rapidly and the demand for survey services to grow in parallel. Providing the right base maps for Africa is a critical function in the development of the region and we will continue to push to make sure that is what our customers get.


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Cat Food Storage Tins
Cat Food Storage Tins, Pet food storage tins, cat food tin cans, junior cat food tin cans, pet meat pet milk powder storage tins, fish food storage tin cans, food grade.13.5oz-300g. Hot selling item size, round size:60 mm in top diameter,40mm in height.Square Size:190(H)*135(W)*160mm(H). Another size can be customized.logo printing, labeling also accepted.
Cat Food Storage Tins –Qiming Packaging
cat food tin cans cat food storage tins original tin color
square pet food storage containers cat food storage tins
pet food cans cat food bins & canisters
Cat Food Storage Tins Height Adjustable
Why Choose Qiming Packaging Cat Food Storage Tins ?
Our Product advantage:
- Various capacities and sizes
- Fast delivery
- Options: with/without printings
- We offer you favorable competence for you in your market
Not all the suppliers can promise as followings but we do
- After-sales service
- Prime Tinplate
- Free Samples available,1-5days (depends on the sizes and materials)
- ODM &OEM service


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A hotel reservations system is an extremely valuable piece of technology for your hotel, should you choose to install it.
This system will help you schedule the dates and length of stay for guests, allowing them to choose their rooms at time of booking and take payments from them.
On the more advanced scale it can even be setup to allow guests to choose extras and other add-ons.
What are the main benefits of having a hotel reservations system?
There's a range of benefits to having this technology in place at your hotel, mostly based around simplifying your life as a manager or staff member and speeding up a number of processes. They include:
- No need for the front desk staff to process reservations – when guests can input their own reservation details through the systems everything happens automatically and your staff don't need to worry.
- With guests inputting their own details there's less chance of the wrong data being entered. If something does go wrong you'll have a record to prove it wasn't your fault.
- A large amount of guest data can be captured by these systems, allowing you to improve both marketing and guest service
- Better management and tracking of rewarding guests for their loyalty
There's a range of benefits to having this technology in place at your hotel, mostly based around simplifying your life as a manager.
The essential features a hotel reservations system should have
There is a number of basic requirements every good reservations system should have, both functional and non-functional. They include:
- Associate every online booking with an account
- Limit every account to a single user
- Enable users to search and find the most relevant booking options
- Accept date and time to check available rooms for that particular time
- Booking confirmation should be sent to the specified contact details
- Calculate and display accommodation charges and other utilities
- Cancel bookings
- Display and change records of guests
- Change rooms
- Use encryption to avoid bots from booking
- Search results should populate within acceptable time limits
- Users should be helped appropriately to fill in the mandatory fields, in case of invalid input
- System should accept payments via various payment methods
- Easy to use, efficient, and accessible
- Keep track of documentation, activities, and responses
The main point to remember is that this technology enables guests to choose and book their own rooms online via secure portal. It must be straightforward and safe, but it must also offer you the same convenience and range of use it does your guests. This way, it won't only make life easier but you can use the data it provides to source more revenue and profit for your hotel.


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Ben Burtt reveals some of the Episode III's sound secrets.
"From the beginning of the first Star Wars film, George Lucas always encouraged the sound development to start in pre-production," says Ben Burtt, Sound Designer and Co-Editor of Revenge of the Sith. "That way, sound is being talked about when you first see the artwork, and sound effects and concepts for sound are there from the beginning as the films were shot. Once the film is being edited, sound is put in right away." Though that is the tradition with Star Wars movies, the standard Hollywood model had been to scramble to develop sound deep in the post production period. "In that case, there may be only a short amount of time left to work out all of the concepts; but for us, the sound has really been developed over a long period of time."
Like many elements in Episode III, the sound design is a mix of new and old as the Star Wars saga bridges together, and the prequel trilogy segues into the classics. Burtt was very much cognizant of that as he began putting together elements for the opening space battle. "I knew when those ships came in that they were going to be the new Jedi starfighters, which were related to the TIE fighters from A New Hope. I felt the sound should have some continuity, so I started working with the old TIE fighter sounds and adding NASCAR sounds to it to develop something that would hint at the direction of the technology."
Burtt describes there being about a thousand different sound projects for the film, not including foley effects like footsteps. In addition, the sound crew also provided performances both large (Matthew Wood as General Grievous) and small (Burtt as the Niemoidian captain). "We're a small operation, a sound crew of 9 people, so we tend to use ourselves as characters," says Burtt. "Matt and I played in the recent films probably about 30 or 40 incidental characters -- battle droids, Nemoidians, Gungans, Utapaun pit crews, R2-D2, all kinds of robots, and we've enjoyed that because it gives us the feeling that we can really put our performances into the film."
Since the first Star Wars, Ben has been the "voice" of R2-D2, combining synthesizer and organic sounds with his own voice to create the distinctive beeps and boops of the beloved astromech droid. "We revived some of our old equipment for this film," he says. "We pulled out an old ARP synthesizer from under my house, and it was all moldy. Howie Hammerman, our engineer, got it working again so we did lots of new Artoo for this."
The combination of many disparate and sometimes surprising sound sources has been a Ben Burtt trademark, and it continued with this final installment of the saga. "You look at General Grievous' wheel bike, and it's nasty, loud and dangerous. I thought a chainsaw would be perfect," says Burtt. Likewise, the low rumble of the very first Star Destroyer we see on screen is actually the filtered sound of Niagara Falls. And the sound of Vader's heartbeat while he is undergoing his final transformation into a Sith Lord who is more machine than man?
It was a sonic boom emitted by the space shuttle, as heard in northern California.
[source: 'Homing Beacon" #156, the official starwars.com newsletter]


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Browse the Agrilinks community to find individuals and organizations working in food security.
Natalie Petrulla
Senegal Joined February 24, 2020
3 posts Mar 31, 2021 - Income Alone Is Not Enough: The Importance of Increasing Women's Decision-Making in Agriculture
Natalie Petrulla is an international development professional with 5+ years of experience working at the intersection of gender equity and food security. She demonstrates strong skills in GESI technical implementation, data...
Fidel O'Donovan
Mozambique Joined February 08, 2021
1 post Mar 17, 2021 - Shaping the Future of Mozambique's Dairy Sector
Ethiopia Joined December 13, 2019
1 post Dec 13, 2019 - Symposium On Digital Learning Brings Government, Development Partners, and Private Sector Together
Jean-Michel Voisard
Senegal Joined January 04, 2018
1 post Oct 18, 2019 - "Market moves" to feed the world
Makeda Tsegaye
Ethiopia Joined August 10, 2018
1 post Aug 16, 2018 - Africa — A Trillion Dollar Food Market by 2030
I am the Founder and CEO of NetBizImpact Ltd, www.netbizimpact.com, a company incorporated in Kenyaand targets the East African marketplace. We launched operation in Feb. 2017 and ourwork involves identifying, nurturing and...
Dinesh Panday
Nepal Joined March 19, 2014
2 posts Apr 25, 2016 - Conservation Agriculture: Why is Adoption not Increasing as Expected?
Communications officer at YPARDAsia and Pacific Coordination UnitPh.D.in Soil Fertility & Nitrogen Management
Marie-Charlotte Buisson
France Joined June 05, 2018
2 posts Jun 18, 2018 - What Does Male Out-Migration Mean for Women in Tajikistan's Agriculture?
Marie-Charlotte Buisson conducts research in Development Economics and Environmental Economics with a specialization in impact evaluation. She has expertise on sustainable management of natural resources, on the role of policy...
Godfrey Bahiigwa
Ethiopia Joined June 13, 2018
1 post Jun 15, 2018 - Africa's Journey to Self-Reliance Through Improved Food Security Policy
Richard Mkandawire
Malawi Joined May 31, 2018
1 post Jun 11, 2018 - African Agri-Food Systems and the Changing Partnerships Landscape: Old Wine in New Bottles?
Prof. Richard Mkandawire is a Socio-economist and a Rural Development expert. He is currently; the Director of the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP), Africa Secretariat and Chairman, Malawi Planning Commission. Before joining...


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The Joe Biden Problem (Plus Special Guest Ike Johnson from NC-03)
Podcast: Play in new window | Embed
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The Resist Report welcomes Retired Major Ike Johnson, who is running in the Democratic primary for Congress in North Carolina's 3rd Congressional District (NC-03) coming up on April 30th. Johnson talks about his race following the drama that unfolded in North Carolina's 9th Congressional District last year when the results of that election were nullified following a showing of voter fraud by the Republican Mark Harris. He presents his vision for a unified and progressive voice to represent his district in Washington. More information about Johnson can be found at his official campaign website.
On this week's episode, panelists Alex Mohajer, Daniel Fusselman, Rance Collins, and Thomas McAbee discuss the Joe Biden problem and the recent allegations of misconduct brought against him by various women who say that he invaded their personal space and did not respect boundaries. The panelists consider the media treatment of this scandal in advance of Joe Biden's near-certain forthcoming announcement that he will run for president in 2020, adding to a historically crowded Democratic field of candidates who will seek to take on Trump in the next election.
The nominees this week for Shithole of the Week are:
- The Republican faction of the White House responsible for issuing bogus security clearances (nominated by Alex Mohajer).
- InfoWars Host Alex Jones (nominated by Thomas Mcabee).
- Attorney General William Barr (nominated by Rance Collins).
- The Sultan of Brunei (nominated by Daniel Fusselman)
Who is your shithole of the week? Leave us a comment below! Or subscribe on Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!
The Resist Report features music by Chris Prythm and Ill-It Records, including "Dream Merchant" and "The Plight featuring I.AM.EM."
Love our podcast? Continue donating to help support our 0verhead costs!
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John J. Graham used Weisdale as a key location in two of his novels, Shadowed Valley and Strife in the Valley. The video is one of a series looking at the literary heritage of Shetland and was commissioned by Writng the North.
Weisdale and John J. Graham
By Writing the North
Date: August 2013


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Client // Sri Lanka Tourist Board
Creative Agency // Livingroom
Production/Post Production Company // ELº Films
the challenge | the solution
Visual art piece, shot across the Southern province of Sri Lanka. Shot in various destinations in the South over 1 month. The music is all original, all recored live. It is also tuned to a pitch of 432 Hz instead of 440 Hz, to induce an inward experience that is felt inside the body at the spine and heart. The short visual film takes the viewer on a journey to some of sri lanka untouched natural beauties ranging from the south to mid-lands.
Filmed in Sri Lanka (Galle, Matara, Tangalle, Dickwella, Mirissa, Rekewa, Kandy & Kalla)
Director: Pabz Alexander
DOP: Jordan Green
Producer: Michael Ahmadzadeh
Music Composition: Pabz Alexander
Sound Design: Nick Scholey
Editing/Post Production: ELº Films
Kit: RED EPIC with Samyang Lens Set
Shot in June 2015
Special thanks to the The Lantern team (Navesh, Perumal, Sumith Bandara, Indika Perera, Goshita, Nadeeka, Lenora and Johan Siriwardena), The White Tea Plantation Hundungoda, Sea Turtle Hatchery Habaraduwa for making the project happen.


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Following up on yesterday (or was it the day before?) when we discussed the bury feature on digg not having ownership (i.e. a name attached to the negative vote) we have Muhammad Saleem tracking the digg spy. Very interesting findings… turns out folks with personal vendettas vote things down as spam–shocking!
Someone should create a 3rd party tracker and put this information out for the long term and see if they can find some trends.


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We may not have been giving honeybees enough credit: turns out the insect can count (well, up to four anyhow)!
Also at the Australian National University, Marie Dacke and Mandyam V. Srinivasan trained European honeybees to pass a particular number of colored stripes in a tunnel to get a food reward, which was placed by a stripe. When they removed the food, the bees still returned to the same stripe.
Next, they mixed things up on the bees: they varied the spacing of the stripes, and even replaced stripes with unfamiliar markers. The insects consistently passed the same number of markers to approach the former reward site, demonstrating that they could count, up to four.
The studies burnish the impressive list of honeybees' known cognitive abilities, all achieved with a brain the size of a sand grain.


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Military and War
Records relating to South Australians' involvement in various military forces and conflicts.
Women's Suffrage
A petition in favour of extending the right to vote to women.
WW1 Recruitment Posters "DON'T STAND LOOKING AT THIS"
World War One recruitment posters and the art of war
WWI Soldier, Sailor and Nurse Photographs
A special collection of photographs commemorating service personnel from World War One.


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Um espelho que reflecte a vida, que passa por nós num segundo (espelho)
O Estado
"How little has changed the nature of State power and the governments of the world"
In every human society there are always ambitious, unscrupulous, cruel men, who, I have already endeavoured to show, are ever ready to perpetrate any kind of violence, robbery or murder for their own advantage; and that in a society without Government these men would be robbers, restrained in their actions partly by strife with those injured by them (self-instituted justice, lynching), but partly and chiefly by the most powerful weapon of influence upon men – public opinion. Whereas in a society ruled by coercive authority, these same men are those who will seize authority and will make use of it, not only without the restraint of public opinion, but, on the contrary, supported, praised and extolled by a bribed and artificially maintained public opinion.
Leon Tolstoy – em 1905


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James H. Rimmer, Ph.D.
Federal officials and members of the public health community are concerned that as persons with disabilities age, they will have increasing difficulty performing activities of daily living (ADL) (i.e., dressing, showering) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) (i.e., ambulation, doing laundry, and grocery shopping) at a much earlier rate than the general population (Freedman & Martin, 1999; Sherwood, 1999). Persons with physical disabilities are often confronted with many physical challenges as a result of their functional limitations (i.e., inability to walk) and associated health conditions (i.e., spasticity, weakness, fatigue). When combined with the natural aging process, the likelihood of becoming physically dependent on others for assistance with daily activities (ADL & IADL) substantially increases (Brandt & Pope, 1997). Some experts believe that the high incidence of inactivity and poor health practices seen in persons with disabilities (Heath & Fentem; Rimmer, 1999), combined with the natural aging process and the potential loss of function from the disability itself, presents a volatile combination for those people living at or close to the 'threshold' of physical dependence.
Maintaining a high level of fitness among persons with physical disabilities has even greater importance than in the general population, because a loss in strength could erode a person's ability to care for themselves, work, recreate or engage in community events (i.e., attend worship services, socialize with friends). Persons with physical disabilities would benefit greatly from participation in resistance training programs and would have a greater likelihood of maintaining their physical function and independence (Cress et al., 1999; Ferketich, Kirby, & Always, 1998; Morey, Pieper, & Cornoni-Huntley, 1998).
As persons with physical disabilities age, the interaction between the natural aging process and the disability creates a demanding physical environment. Tasks that could be accomplished in younger adulthood become major barriers in middle and later adulthood. Climbing stairs, walking with a cane or walker, carrying packages, transferring from a wheelchair to a bed, commode, chair or car, pushing a wheelchair up a ramp or over a curb cut, standing for long periods of time, become difficult or impossible tasks.
Many persons with physical disabilities are de-conditioned and lack adequate muscular strength and endurance (Rimmer, 1994; Rimmer, Rubin, Braddock, & Hedman, 1999). Fitness professionals can play an important role in improving the health of persons with physical disabilities by developing resistance training programs that will assist them in maintaining adequate levels of muscular strength and endurance (Rimmer, Pitetti, & Braddock, 1996). The physical challenges that many people with disabilities are faced with on a daily basis are exacerbated by poor strength levels. If persons with physical disabilities are unable to transfer from their wheelchair to their car, or walk from their home to the bus stop or train station, they will have difficulty working and participating in social and community events. This will impose a substantial physical and psychological hardship and will reduce the person's overall quality of life (Rimmer, Braddock, & Pitetti, 1996).
Improving strength levels in persons with physical disabilities is, to some extent, even more important than in the general population. A comprehensive strength training program could provide persons with physical disabilities greater confidence in accomplishing more physically demanding tasks, and greatly improve their ability to overcome physical barriers in their environment. Strength improvements will ultimately result in greater freedom and physical independence.
This chapter will discuss resistance training guidelines for persons with physical disabilities. The first section will focus on associated conditions and general resistance training guidelines, and the last section will discuss guidelines for specific disability groups. Although the emphasis of this chapter is on five disabilities - spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, post-polio syndrome, cerebral palsy, and stroke - the General Guidelines section will be useful for other types of physical disabilities that have similar movement limitations (i.e., spina bifida, amputations, brain injury).


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§1. Besides institutes of consecrated life, the Church recognizes the eremitic or anchoritic life by which the Christian faithful devote their life to the praise of God and salvation of the world through a stricter separation from the world, the silence of solitude and assiduous prayer and penance.
§2. A hermit is recognized in the law as one dedicated to God in a consecrated life if he or she publicly professes the three evangelical counsels, confirmed by a vow or other sacred bond, in the hands of the diocesan bishop and observes his or her own plan of life under his direction.
There are numerous books and articles describing the eremitic life. Below, please find a short list. Desert dwellers reach back to the 3rd century, on through the middle ages, and up to the present century where both men and women continue to follow Christ along a desert path.
Today, individuals called to this ancient form of consecrated life are scattered about our globe. Each lives according to their own Rule approved by their bishop.
What all have in common is a commitment, under vow to their bishop, to live poorly, chastely, and obediently a life of prayer within the silence of solitude.
You may have many wonderments concerning the eremtic life. My desire is to bring this form of consecrated life to your awareness and allow the scholars to share the wealth of their knowledge.
Edited by A. M. Allchin
Solitude and Communion
Farag, Lois
Balance of the Heart
Desert Spirituality for Twenty-First-Century Christians
Camaldolese Hermit
In Praise of Hiddenness
Cistercian Publication
The Hermitage Within
Clay, Rotha Mary
The Hermits and Anchorites of England
Warren, Ann K.
Anchorites and Their Patrons in Medieval England
Wencel,er.cam., Fr. Cornelius
The Eremitic Life
Burrows, OCD, Sr. Ruth
Essence of Prayer
Fairhurst, Richard
What Are Anchorites?
Laird, O.S.A., Martin
Into the Silent Land (A Guide to the Christian Practice of Contemplation)
Marlene Weisenbeck FSPA, Ph.D., J.C.L.
Guidebook for Eremitic Life
Our Lady of Tenderness, pray for us!


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"This car talks to me."
That is what the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, said during his speech at the launch of the new Proton X70 on December 12th 2018. The Malaysian national carmaker, PROTON, launched its first ever model, the Proton Saga, back in 1985 by the very same man. 33 years later in 2018, not only did he return as Malaysia's seventh Prime Minister, but he took the stage once again to launch a vehicle that many believe will define what is to be expected of a car in the coming years.
The Proton X70 is based on the Geely Bo Yue (Emgrand X7 in certain markets), Geely's best-selling SUV, having sold over 650,000 units since its launch in March 2016. One of the major selling points of the Bo Yue is that it is equipped with the Global Key User Interface or GKUI for short, which allows the car to receive voice commands from the driver or occupants and then execute them. This smart voice assistant function is able to open and close windows, sunroof, adjust car temperature, tune the radio and search for nearby amenities such as the nearest coffee shop etc. It even understands fuzzy statements such as "It's hot in here", to which it will respond: "Should I lower the temperature?"
This technology is only possible with the partnership that PROTON has made with Geely. After many rounds of discussion between Geely and PROTON's parent company, DRB-HICOM, the two companies came to an agreement on 23rd June 2017 whereby Geely would acquire 49.9% of the Malaysian national car maker while DRB-HICOM retains 50.1% as the majority owner. The collaboration also saw some new talents in PROTON's board of directors and its management team is now headed by Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Li Chunrong, along with talents from Malaysia, China and Japan.
Their collective goal? To revitalise PROTON and return it to its former glory of being Malaysia's number one car brand, while at the same time tackle the wider ASEAN region and reach a top three position. A highly ambitious goal but if the excitement surrounding the Proton X70 serves as any indication of PROTON's future successes, then the company is certainly on the road to success.
The talking car.
That was term that lingered in the audience's minds as they left the launch ceremony, as well as an image that was recreated after 33 years; the Prime Minister handing over the key of the first Proton X70 to his dear wife, the first lady Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, as he did when the first Proton Saga was launched in 1985.
As Malaysia's number one couple graced the front pages of the local newspapers the following day with that iconic shot, PROTON's dealerships were also graced by a throng of customers wanting a better look at the vehicle or better yet, test drive it and place an order.
Once the launch was over, PROTON's order books swelled to over 13,000 orders for its new SUV. Including 10,000 of which were received via its online platform – a first for the Malaysian car industry. Since the launch, PROTON has been receiving an average of 300 orders per day.
Moreover, 60% of the bookings were for the top range Premium 2WD variant that many admit offers the best value for money as far as SUVs are concerned. Not only does it provide much more value and technology than any of its nearest competitors in the Malaysian market, it is also creating a new technology and value benchmark for consumers.
This is the start of a new chapter for PROTON. Although the partnership with Geely is still young, the steps it has made for the future are built on a solid foundation. More PROTON 3S and 4S centres were opened last year totaling at 73 across the country, while more are planned to be opened this year. Dealership technicians' skills have also been enhanced with various after sales and service initiatives, enabling them to better serve customers. As for going global, PROTON has resumed its export to the Middle East and North African (MENA) regions with the arrival of 246 cars at the Egyptian port of Alexandria in October last year.
All this aside, the proof is in the numbers as they say. Towards the second half of 2018, PROTON experience a growth of 17.7% over the same period in 2017 and 35.8% higher than the number reported from January to June 2018. This can be attributed to various business and marketing initiatives organised by the company, as well as due to increased hype caused by the positivity brought via its partnership with Geely.
As the Proton X70 starts to hit the road, straight from Geely's manufacturing plant in Chunxiao, China, a bigger change can be seen coming to PROTON in 2019 with the Malaysian production of the X70 planned for the fourth quarter of 2019. Proton has embarked on its plan to fulfill its ambition for national and regional prominence, it has already re-positioned itself as a premium brand, offering never seen before technology-orientated products with a strong value proposition. The future does indeed look bright for this Malaysian tiger now that it has been set free. Only question is – now that PROTON already has a talking car, what can possibly be next on the horizon?


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Visit my Postcard Paintings [ Postcard Paintings Blog - Buy one $75 each ] These bite-sized oil paintings are popular, affordable and readily available. To be notified by email of new postings, [ Join My Mailing List ]. Unless otherwise noted all Postcard Paintings are 5x7" oil on masonite. Occassionally. I may post other sizes of paintings and watercolors, in which case I'll note the size and medium.
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Publications by year: 2001
A Guide to human rights: institutions, standards, procedures
This work is an attempt to provide a concise and comprehensive overview of human rights institutions, standards and procedures, presented in a single publication.
Community radio handbook
Based on the experience and innovative thinking of communication experts and practitioners, this handbook can contribute towards helping different communication actors, technicians, operators and radio producers in community radio stations to make more efficient use of community media for community development by getting people involved in clarifying issues and solving problems and in talking to each other.
National strategies for e-learning in post-secondary education and training
In this book, it is argued that e-learning is bringing about an important shift within the education sector and is changing the very nature of learning. The flexibility and accessibility of information that characterize e-learning correspond to the new types of skills required of workers in a knowledge-based economy, and not necessarily only in the most developed countries.
Public broadcasting: why? how?
This brochure presents in a simple and direct style an entirely up-to-date summary of the basic concepts relating to public broadcasting, which is vital to the functioning of democratic societies. It fits logically into the framework of UNESCO's efforts to promote free and independent media throughout the world.


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Sen. Lindsey Graham has written off yesterday's epic filibuster as "ridiculous," but why should he have the monopoly on GOP stupidity? His toolish teammate John McCain got in on the action, distorting Paul's remarks and helping to play defense for Eric Holder and the Obama Administration:
McCain calls Rand Paul's concern "totally unfounded"
— Philip Klein (@philipaklein) March 7, 2013
"If Paul wants to be taken seriously he needs to do more than pull political stunts than fire up impressionable libertarian kids" -McCain
— Julie Borowski (@JulieBorowski) March 7, 2013
RT @mikeviqueira: McCain calling Paul's filibuster "a political stunt" to fire up libertarian kids in college….wow! This on Senate floor
— Emily Zanotti (@emzanotti) March 7, 2013
McCain: "I don't that what happened yesterday is helpful to the American people" #standwithrand
— Charlie Spiering (@charliespiering) March 7, 2013
McCain: Paul did 'a disservice to a lot of Americans by making them believe that somehow they're in danger from their gov't. They're not.'
— Joel Gehrke (@Joelmentum) March 7, 2013
He just. Doesn't. Get it. Sen. Paul has earned the much respect of so many conservatives not necessarily because of his particular feelings on drone strikes, but because of his passionate defense of limited government and the fact that he brought the Constitution to the forefront of the debate.
More McCain: To allege that the US would drop a drone hellfire missile on Jane Fonda…brings the conversation to realm of the ridiculous
— Jeremy Herb (@jeremyherb) March 7, 2013
McCain, with Graham seated behind him on floor, says Paul brought conversation "to the realm of the ridiculous."
— Mike Memoli (@mikememoli) March 7, 2013
Sen. McCain may think those things are "ridiculous," but conservatives have some choice words for him:
If it's so damned false, @SenJohnMcCain, let the administration SAY they won't kill US citizens on us soil without due process!
— FilmLadd (@FilmLadd) March 7, 2013
'Maverick' McCain appears to be getting out-mavericked by @SenRandPaul
— Charlie Spiering (@charliespiering) March 7, 2013
So, yea, I'll take Rand Paul's side over McCain's.
— Stephen Gutowski (@StephenGutowski) March 7, 2013
If @SenJohnMcCain thinks the accusations are false then he should have no problem in joining Paul's request that the WH answer inquiries.
— Dana Loesch (@DLoesch) March 7, 2013
#StandWithRand Sen. John McCain, Chair of Advanced RINOlogy Studies at The University of Suckuppitude, sells out => http://t.co/vMqMJXWboQ
— IGotOverMachoGrande (@smitty_one_each) March 7, 2013
Just recall, McCain is the moderate, bipartisan centrist. Rand Paul is the Tea Party "extremist."
— Tim Carney (@TPCarney) March 7, 2013
McCain is doing an excellent job rebutting positions Rand Paul didn't take.
— John Ekdahl (@JohnEkdahl) March 7, 2013
McCain actually just said @SenRandPaul "needs 2 know what he's talking about". So we don't have a right to have a SIMPLE question answered?
— Melissia (@ProudoftheUSA) March 7, 2013
You know it's not an election year for John McCain when he sides with Eric Holder against Rand Paul. #maverick
— Razor (@hale_razor) March 7, 2013
Hi @SenJohnMcCain , were u aware that gov't agencies classified the military authorized Gadsen Flag as "suspicious?" http://t.co/HZyXaJkA7h
— Dana Loesch (@DLoesch) March 7, 2013
Old Man McCain condescendingly railing about those gosh darn libertarian college kids on the Senate floor. Who needs 'em! #WinningTheFuture
— C. Whalen Stephens (@CorieWStephens) March 7, 2013
Shut up @SenJohnMcCain! Your lack of concern 4 r constitutional rights is disturbing coming from a former POW. #StandWithRand
— Kira Ayn Davis (@RealKiraDavis) March 7, 2013
McCain has been tougher on Rand Paul in the last 20 minutes than he was on Obama during the whole campaign.
— Drew McCoy (@DrewMTips) March 7, 2013
Well yes, but then again, it'd be awful uncouth of McCain to criticize Obama after that lovely dinner they had last night:
In: Filibusters. Out: Mavericky dinners with Obama.
— Teri Peters (@hipEchik) March 7, 2013
Yes, McCain, highlight your dinner with Obama. Brilliant . #StandWithRand
— Gary Eaton (@garysteveneaton) March 7, 2013
The shit McCain thinks is important is insane.
Good dinner guest> bill of rights.
— Amy (@AmyOtto8) March 7, 2013
McCain ends his speech complimenting Sen Graham on his "behavior" last night at dinner. HAR HAR #TCOT #filibuster #StandWithRand
— FTR Radio (@FTR__Radio) March 7, 2013
As in, reeealy nice RT @emzanotti: Well, good to know that Sen. Lindsey Graham was really nice at that dinner with Obama. #standwithrand
— Rschrim (@Rschrim) March 7, 2013
Meanwhile, we've lost our appetites.
McCain is doing what he always does best. Snatching victory from Republicans. . .
— Charlie Spiering (@charliespiering) March 7, 2013
Graham and McCain are why more people aren't Republicans. They are killing the party. Pathetic.
— Dana Loesch (@DLoesch) March 7, 2013
McCain and Graham see the writing on the wall and are infuriated that in one night they were shoved aside for the new guard.
— Dana Loesch (@DLoesch) March 7, 2013
McCain-style conservatism: Standing athwart the Constitution, yelling stop.
— Jim Antle (@jimantle) March 7, 2013
Tired of being disappointed with @SenJohnMcCain .
— Dana Loesch (@DLoesch) March 7, 2013
Aren't we all?
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Gentlemen Speak: 5 Things Guys Hate About Modern Dating as Much as You Do
When it comes to modern dating, nearly every woman I know can point to at least one aspect of the whole rigmarole that always seems to get in the way of finding that special person or thwarts their best intentions. And let me tell you, guys are no different.
For example, one thing that frustrates me as a single guy is the pervasive need for options. Especially with digital dating, we are bombarded with options. We can "swipe left," scroll through profile after profile, send a wink, message, and even see how many mutual friends we share. We can see someone's likes, music taste, articles they've read, and so on. We start to create this impression of what we think this person might be like, and then as a result we don't always give them an honest chance. I don't like it—but I know I'm guilty of this mentality too.
But then again, we can all be guilty of bad dating behavior, even while disliking it. Who hasn't swiped through online dating profiles, only to stop themselves with the realization that, "Man, I'm being shallow!"
This got me thinking — are other single men struggling with modern dating dilemmas and what do they do about it? To figure this out, I interviewed seven different guys about modern dating frustrations, and this is what they said.
Too Quick to Judge
"I feel like people try to get to know the person before they even meet them," Sean says. "With social media and word of mouth from friends, we jump to judgment before the date has even transpired. We don't allow for our date to make the first impression face-to-face. We paint the picture of the date before we get to know the person for who they are."
Making a judgment based on appearance can be a challenge. Men are especially visual creatures and we tend to rely heavily on how a woman looks, but online profiles can lead us astray.
I am definitely going to keep this in mind for the future. I don't want to be the kind of guy who rushes to a judgement or idealizes someone in my head before I've even had a chance to get to know them. So how can I prevent this? For starters, not looking the person up on Facebook before a date and getting rid of any "mental checklist" I have, are easy pre-date fixes. In the end, it's about truly getting to know the person, not their profile.
Not Straightforward Enough
I know better than most that guys can cause plenty of dating problems with our lack of communication. It's a constant struggle that I've written about on multiple occasions — our emotional languages can be tricky, we're not always the best listeners, we send confusing text messages, and oftentimes we hesitate to make the first move. As I am sure you know, this can lead to a huge lack of clarity. And men, it seems, are getting as frustrated with it as you are.
"The confusion stops when someone steps up to the plate and says 'Hey, I'm flattered but I'm not interested,'" explains Joe. "Guys and gals alike need to be straight up. Without direct and quick communication, both sides get hurt and it drags on. Getting hurt is OK. In fact, I wish people would be more straightforward (so you can get hurt and "fail-faster" as they say in business) so you can spend your time on (hopefully) someone who you're meant to be with."
A Little Too Focused on the Physical Stuff
"Online profiles now frequently express sexual preferences and sometimes sexual requirements ('don't message me unless…'), and first dates that don't progress toward physical intimacy raise red flags," complains Isaac.
The way Isaac sees it, men and women alike can see the problems our obsession with sex is inflicting on modern dating. Those who want to find lasting love feel the loss of things like chivalry and genuine romance. Perhaps it's worth re-evaluating the new norm when it comes to dating and sex, says Isaac.
One way to counter this is to be intentional when you go on dates and focus on the little things, Isaac suggested. "Go on dates instead of just 'hanging out.' Do early happy hours instead of late ones. Find ways to show affection that won't lead to the bedroom."
Isaac continues to explain that we have lost so many wonderful aspects of traditional dating and sometimes it seems that the only part left that feels real is physical intimacy. "But invest in the little things and then it won't seem as necessary," he says.
Focusing Too Much on Our Careers
Like most people, James sees that putting thoughts of marriage on the back burner can get him closer to where he wants to be professionally, "but what am I doing to counter that?" wonders James.
It can be so easy to put career before social life, but we shouldn't be afraid to give some priority to meeting new people and socializing, James added. "I make a point of trying to go out with friends or coworkers to do something social once a week." But James doesn't just stay within his circle, he makes a point to engage others. "You never know, introducing yourself to the table or people next to you may just lead to meeting your future wife or husband. Then it's just a matter of asking that awesome person out."
Using Apps as a Distraction
"It seems that every other month there is a new dating app. And we try them because we are all looking for something more than what society is giving us. The modern dating scene is ready for something new, something real," explains Lucas.
The way Lucas sees it, all our clamoring for new dating apps is just our desperate desire for something better than we have, something real. Dating apps are not really going to satisfy this desire. According to Lucas, what we need is more people encouraging one another to date well and really seek commitment and authentic relationships if that's what they want.
"Every time I ask a girl out, I challenge one of my buddies to ask a girl out too. I do this not to be competitive, but to encourage a healthy dating scene," says Lucas. "Some of them have had better luck than me and are married. Looking back on it I'm glad I gave them a little nudge, and their wives are too! I think we just need to recover a sense of encouraging each other, saying yes to possibilities, and being intentional. After all, dating is not about me, it's about getting to know the amazing person sitting across from you."
So there you have it—guys have problems with the ridiculous amount of options out there, the many dating apps, profiles, pictures, and it can all seem overwhelming for them too. But all that said, these same men are out there looking to go deeper than a profile or a picture. So even if you run across a few jerks, don't worry—there are still solid guys out there who want to be better at this whole dating thing, too.
Photo Credit: Manchik Photography