text:
Singapore has months' worth of stockpiles, planned for disruption of supplies from Malaysia for years: Chan Chun Sing
SINGAPORE: Singapore has months' worth of stockpiles at the national level, and has planned for a disruption of supplies from Malaysia over many years, Minister of Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing said on Tuesday (Mar 17).
Currently, Singapore has more than three months' worth of carbohydrates like rice and noodles, and more than two months' worth of stockpiles for proteins and vegetables, he said, revealing such numbers for the first time.
Speaking to reporters, Mr Chan said Singapore has plans to manage a disruption of supplies from Malaysia through a combination of stockpiling, local production and diversification of overseas sources.
READ: Singapore 'not facing any immediate risks of running out of food' - Chan Chun Sing on Malaysia's restricted movement order
Mr Chan also stressed that while there are travel restrictions by various countries, this does not equate to restrictions in the supply chain.
"Last night, Malaysia announced a movement control order, as part of their efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19," said Mr Chan.
He said not all details are available at this point, but Singapore is in contact with the Malaysian authorities, as they work on their operation details on Tuesday.
"Some Singaporeans are concerned with the supplies of food and essential items," he said.
"Many companies with Malaysian workers are concerned with the continuity of their operations. Let me first say that a disruption of supplies from Malaysia is one of the contingency scenarios that we have planned for over the many years.
"As such, we have plans to manage this contingency with a combination of stockpiling, building up our domestic production capacities, and diversifying our supply sources to many countries."
He said this combination of stockpiling and production would allow Singapore time to bring in alternative supplies if usual supply lines are disrupted.
"So in this particular instance, the Malaysian lines have been disrupted and our stockpile and local production will buy us time to bring in alternative supplies," he said.
Mr Chan spoke about Singapore's supplies, while adding that Singaporeans "will know that we cannot reveal all the actual numbers, as it will affect the negotiations with our overseas suppliers".
"For carbohydrates, like rice and noodles, we have more than three months' worth of stockpile at the national level," he said.
"For noodles. We also have domestic production capabilities, which we can ramp up as necessary.
"For proteins, like meat and vegetables, we have a combination of fresh, frozen and canned options to meet our demands," added the minister.
"For both proteins and vegetables, we have more than two months' worth of stockpile for normal consumption.
"For eggs, we have local production, and we have activated other air freight options to bring in substitute supplies, should the Malaysian supplies be disrupted."
Commentary: COVID-19 emphasises the importance of Singapore's free trade agreements
READ: Singapore must prepare mentally for spike in COVID-19 cases, update stockpile, supply chain strategy - Chan Chun Sing
He said that while all fellow Singaporeans may have to make some adjustment to their choices, there are sufficient supplies for all Singaporeans, "so long as we buy responsibly".
"I can understand the fear and anxiety of some Singaporeans," said Mr Chan.
"Singaporeans who remain calm can help us reach out and reassure those who are anxious, so that we can go through this together as one united people."
He said that while individuals may be anxious, we can draw strength as a community.
Addressing the issue of Malaysian workers, he said many employers have inquired since Monday night if they can provide temporary accommodation in Singapore for the Malaysian workers who may wish to stay here.
"During this period, our economic agencies are working with the companies, dormitory operators and hotels, to provide options for the companies," he said.
"So companies who need help, for their workers' accommodation can contact economic agencies, and also work with their trade associations."
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Tuesday also said the flow of goods and cargo between Singapore and Malaysia, including food supplies, will continue.
In a Facebook post, Mr Lee said he received this reassurance from Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin when they discussed the situation earlier in the day.
According to 2019 figures from the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), Malaysia accounted for 37 per cent, 72 per cent and 15 per cent of Singapore's chicken, egg and fish supplies, respectively.
Meanwhile, Singapore imported 39 per cent of its fruits and 41 per cent of its vegetables from Malaysia last year.
SFA said the country's food supply is not affected by Malaysia's movement control order.
As a result of its diversification efforts for the sourcing of food items including eggs, chicken, and vegetables, Singapore now imports food from more than 170 countries and regions.
"Should there be a disruption to any one source, we will work with our importers to tap on alternative sources, and ensure that our food supply remains stable," a spokesperson said in response to CNA's queries.
SFA has also been investing in local production to serve as a buffer during supply disruptions.
"We are working with our local agri-food industry to achieve our vision of producing 30 per cent of Singapore's nutritional needs locally by 2030," said the spokesperson.
"In the meantime, Singaporeans should stay calm and support local produce."
Additional reporting by Tang See Kit.
BOOKMARK THIS: Our comprehensive coverage of the novel coronavirus and its developments
Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram


text:
Caribbean Salt Cod and Okra Soup (featuring Mashed Yams!)
This awesome soup comes from The Ultimate Soup Bible: salt cod, spinach, and okra in a tomato-wine broth surround a mountain of mashed yams. Very different, and very delicious!
Lisa says:
This is so good! I like the cod, though it's not as salty as I'd expected.
Chris says:
Soaking for over a day will do that, I guess.
Lisa says:
Never in a million years would I have thought to put mashed yams in the middle of a soup!
Chris says:
Mashed Yams? More like Mashed YUMS!
Lisa says:
I know! We should make the yams on their own, too — so good.
Abbie says:
I like our mountain of potatoes… I'd live on it if I were this big…
Chris says:
You may not realize that the people out there can't see you touching your fingers together to indicate that "this big" means "miniscule".
Abbie says:
Um, it's kind of implied if I refer to it as a "mountain" of potatoes.
Chris says:
Good point.
Caribbean Salt Cod and Okra Soup
1/2 lb salt cod, soaked for 24 hours, with several water changes
1 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 onion, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
6 plum tomatoes, peeled and chopped, or 1 32-oz can whole tomatoes, drained and chopped
1 cup white wine
2 bay leaves
3 3/4 cups water
8 oz okra, trimmed and cut into thirds
8 oz spinach
salt and pepper
For the potatoes:
1 1/2 lbs yams
juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup butter
2 tbsp heavy cream
1 tbsp chopped chives
Drain and skin the salt cod, then rinse under cold water. Cut into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Heat the oil in a large, heavy pan. Add the garlic, onion, and jalapeño and cook for 4-5 minutes over medium-high heat until softened. Add the salt cod and cook for another 4 minutes until it begins to color. Stir in the tomatoes, wine, and bay leaves and bring to a boil. Add the water, return to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the okra the soup and cook an additional 10 minutes. Stir in the spinach and cook for 5 minutes until the okra is tender. While the soup is cooking, prepare the yams. Peel the yams and cut into large dice, then place in a pan with the lemon juice and add cold water to cover. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, until tender. Drain well, then return to the pan to dry over the heat for a few minutes. Add the butter and cream, and mash the potatoes. Season as desired. Add the chives.
Season the soup with salt and pepper. Spoon portions of the yams into the center of six bowls and ladle the soup around it. Serve and enjoy!
6 Servings
posted in Main Dishes, The Soup Bible | 2 Comments

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Prothioconazole; Pesticide Tolerances, 67048-67052 [2013-26772]Download as PDF
[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 217 (Friday, November 8, 2013)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 67048-67052] From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov] [FR Doc No: 2013-26772] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Part 180 [EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0876; FRL-9400-4] Prothioconazole; Pesticide Tolerances AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of prothioconozole in or on bushberries (crop subgroup 13-07B); low growing berries, except strawberry (crop subgroup 13-07H); and cucurbit vegetables (crop group 9). Bayer CropScience requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). DATES: This regulation is effective November 8, 2013. Objections and requests for hearings must be received on or before January 7, 2014, and must be filed in accordance with the instructions provided in 40 CFR part 178 (see also Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). ADDRESSES: The docket for this action, identified by docket identification (ID) number EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0876, is available at https://www.regulations.gov or at the Office of Pesticide Programs Regulatory Public Docket (OPP Docket) in the Environmental Protection Agency Docket Center (EPA/DC), EPA West Bldg., Rm. 3334, 1301 Constitution Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001. The Public Reading Room is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. The telephone number for the Public Reading Room is (202) 566-1744, and the telephone number for the OPP Docket is (703) 305- 5805. Please review the visitor instructions, and additional information about the docket available at https://www.epa.gov/dockets. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lois Rossi, Registration Division (RD), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001; telephone number: (703) 305-7090; email address: firstname.lastname@example.com. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. General Information A. Does this action apply to me? You may be potentially affected by this action if you are an agricultural producer, food manufacturer, or pesticide manufacturer. The following list of North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) codes is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a guide to help readers determine whether this document applies to them. Potentially affected entities may include:
Crop production (NAICS code 111). Animal production (NAICS code 112). Food manufacturing (NAICS code 311). Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS code 32532). B. How can I get electronic access to other related information? You may access a frequently updated electronic version of EPA's tolerance regulations at 40 CFR part 180 through the Government Printing Office's e-CFR site at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/40tab_02.tpl. C. How can I file an objection or hearing request? Under FFDCA section 408(g), 21 U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an objection to any aspect of this regulation and may also request a hearing on those objections. You must file your objection or request a hearing on this regulation in accordance with the instructions provided in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, you must identify docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0876, in the subject line on the first page of your submission. All objections and requests for a hearing must be in writing, and must be received by the Hearing Clerk on or [[Page 67049]] before January 7, 2014. Addresses for mail and hand delivery of objections and hearing requests are provided in 40 CFR 178.25(b). In addition to filing an objection or hearing request with the Hearing Clerk as described in 40 CFR part 178, please submit a copy of the filing (excluding any Confidential Business Information (CBI)) for inclusion in the public docket. Information not marked confidential pursuant to 40 CFR part 2 may be disclosed publicly by EPA without prior notice. Submit the non-CBI copy of your objection or hearing request, identified by docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0876, by one of the following methods: Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for submitting comments. Do not submit electronically any information you consider to be CBI or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Mail: OPP Docket, Environmental Protection Agency Docket Center (EPA/DC), (28221T), 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001. Hand Delivery: To make special arrangements for hand delivery or delivery of boxed information, please follow the instructions at https://www.epa.gov/dockets/contacts.html. Additional instructions on commenting or visiting the docket, along with more information about dockets generally, is available at https://www.epa.gov/dockets. II. Summary of Petitioned-For Tolerance In the Federal Register of December 19, 2012 (77 FR 75082) (FRL- 9372-6), EPA issued a notice pursuant to section 408(d)(3) of FFDCA, 21 U.S.C. 346a(d)(3), announcing the filing of a pesticide petition 2F8044 by Bayer CropScience, 2 T.W. Alexander Drive, P.O. Box 12014, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709. The petition requested that 40 CFR 180.626 be amended by establishing tolerances for residues of the fungicide prothioconazole, (2-(2-(1-chlorocyclpropyl)-3-(2-chlorophenyl)2- hydroxypropyl]-1,2-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thione), in or on bushberry, subgroup 13-07B at 2.0 ppm; berry, low growing, except strawberry subgroup 13-07H at 0.15 ppm; and vegetables, cucurbit, crop group 9 at 0.30 parts per million (ppm). That document referenced a summary of the petition prepared by Bayer CropScience, the registrant, which is available in the docket, https://www.regulations.gov. There were no comments received in response to the notice of filing. Based upon review of the data supporting the petition, EPA has increased the 13-07H berry requested tolerance from 0.15 to 0.20 ppm. The reason for this change is explained in Unit IV.C. III. Aggregate Risk Assessment and Determination of Safety Section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA allows EPA to establish a tolerance (the legal limit for a pesticide chemical residue in or on a food) only if EPA determines that the tolerance is ``safe.'' Section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA defines ``safe'' to mean that ``there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result from aggregate exposure to the pesticide chemical residue, including all anticipated dietary exposures and all other exposures for which there is reliable information.'' This includes exposure through drinking water and in residential settings, but does not include occupational exposure. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to give special consideration to exposure of infants and children to the pesticide chemical residue in establishing a tolerance and to ``ensure that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to infants and children from aggregate exposure to the pesticide chemical residue. . . .'' Consistent with FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), and the factors specified in FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(D), EPA has reviewed the available scientific data and other relevant information in support of this action. EPA has sufficient data to assess the hazards of and to make a determination on aggregate exposure for prothioconazole including exposure resulting from the tolerances established by this action. EPA's assessment of exposures and risks associated with prothioconazole follows. A. Toxicological Profile EPA has evaluated the available toxicity data and considered its validity, completeness, and reliability as well as the relationship of the results of the studies to human risk. EPA has also considered available information concerning the variability of the sensitivities of major identifiable subgroups of consumers, including infants and children. Prothioconazole has low acute toxicity by oral, dermal, and inhalation routes. It is not a dermal sensitizer, or a skin or eye irritant. Prothioconazole's metabolite, prothioconazole-desthio, also has low acute toxicity by oral, dermal, and inhalation routes. This metabolite is not a dermal sensitizer, or skin irritant, but it is a slight eye irritant. The subchronic and chronic studies show that the target organs at the lowest observable adverse effects level (LOAEL) include the liver, kidney, urinary bladder, thyroid, and blood. In addition, the chronic studies showed body weight and food consumption changes, and toxicity to the lymphatic and gastrointestinal systems. Prothioconazole and its metabolites may be developmental toxicants producing effects including malformations in the conceptus at levels equal to or below maternally toxic levels in some studies, particularly those studies conducted using prothioconazole-desthio. Reproduction studies in the rat with prothioconazole and prothioconazole-desthio suggest that these chemicals may not be reproductive toxicants. The available data show that the prothioconazole-desthio metabolite produces toxicity at lower dose levels in subchronic developmental, reproductive, and neurotoxicity studies as compared with prothioconazole and the two additional metabolites that were tested. The available carcinogenicity and/or chronic studies in the mouse and rat, using both prothioconazole and prothioconazole-desthio, show no increase in tumor incidence. Therefore, EPA has concluded that prothioconazole and its metabolites are not carcinogenic, and are classified as ``Not likely to be carcinogenic to humans'' according to the 2005 Cancer Guidelines. Specific information on the studies received and the nature of the adverse effects caused by prothioconazole as well as the no-observed- adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) and the LOAEL from the toxicity studies can be found at https://www.regulations.gov in document ``Prothioconazole: Human Health Risk Assessment for Proposed Used on Low Growing Berry Subgroup (except Strawberry), Bushberry, Subgroup, and Cucurbit Vegetables'' dated June 15, 2013 in docket ID number EPA- HQ-OPP-2012-0876. B. Toxicological Points of Departure/Levels of Concern Once a pesticide's toxicological profile is determined, EPA identifies toxicological points of departure (POD) and levels of concern to use in evaluating the risk posed by human exposure to the pesticide. For hazards that have a threshold below which there is no appreciable risk, the toxicological POD is used as the basis for derivation of reference values for risk assessment. PODs are developed based on a careful analysis of the doses in each [[Page 67050]] toxicological study to determine the dose at which the NOAEL and the lowest dose at which adverse effects of concern are identified. Uncertainty/safety factors are used in conjunction with the POD to calculate a safe exposure level--generally referred to as a population- adjusted dose (PAD) or a reference dose (RfD)--and a safe margin of exposure (MOE). For non-threshold risks, the Agency assumes that any amount of exposure will lead to some degree of risk. Thus, the Agency estimates risk in terms of the probability of an occurrence of the adverse effect expected in a lifetime. For more information on the general principles EPA uses in risk characterization and a complete description of the risk assessment process, see https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/riskassess.htm. A summary of the toxicological endpoints for prothioconazole used for human risk assessment is discussed in Unit III. of the final rule published in the Federal Register of October 5, 2011 (76 FR 61587) (FRL-8884-2). C. Exposure Assessment 1. Dietary exposure from food and feed uses. In evaluating dietary exposure to prothioconazole, EPA considered exposure under the petitioned-for tolerances as well as all existing prothioconazole tolerances in 40 CFR 180.626. EPA assessed dietary exposures from prothioconazole in food as follows: i. Acute exposure. Quantitative acute dietary exposure and risk assessments are performed for a food-use pesticide, if a toxicological study has indicated the possibility of an effect of concern occurring as a result of a 1-day or single exposure. Such effects were identified prothioconazole In estimating acute dietary exposure, EPA used food consumption information from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) 2003-2008, Nationwide Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. As to residue levels in food, EPA conducted a moderately refined acute dietary exposure assessment. The acute assessment utilized EPA- recommended tolerance values for all of the proposed uses, average field trial residue levels for the existing uses, empirical processing factors, and livestock commodity residues derived from feeding studies and a balanced dietary burden. The assessment assumed 100 percent crop treated (PCT). ii. Chronic exposure. In conducting the chronic dietary exposure assessment EPA used the food consumption data from the USDA 2003-2008, National Health and Nutrition Survey. As to residue levels in food, EPA conducted a moderately refined chronic dietary exposure assessment. Empirical processing factors, average field trial residues for existing uses, EPA-recommended tolerance values for all of the proposed uses, and livestock commodity residues derived from feeding studies and a reasonably balanced dietary burden were incorporated into the chronic assessment which assumed 100 PCT. iii. Cancer. Based on the data summarized in Unit III.A., EPA has concluded that prothioconazole is ``Not Likely to be Carcinogenic to Humans.'' Therefore a dietary exposure assessment for the purpose of assessing cancer risk is unnecessary. iv. Anticipated residue. Section 408(b)(2)(E) of FFDCA authorizes EPA to use available data and information on the anticipated residue levels of pesticide residues in food and the actual levels of pesticide residues that have been measured in food. If EPA relies on such information, EPA must require pursuant to FFDCA section 408(f)(1) that data be provided 5 years after the tolerance is established, modified, or left in effect, demonstrating that the levels in food are not above the levels anticipated. For the present action, EPA will issue such data call-ins as are required by FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(E) and authorized under FFDCA section 408(f)(1). Data will be required to be submitted no later than 5 years from the date of issuance of these tolerances. 2. Dietary exposure from drinking water. The Agency used screening level water exposure models in the dietary exposure analysis and risk assessment for prothioconazole in drinking water. These simulation models take into account data on the physical, chemical, and fate/ transport characteristics of prothioconazole. Further information regarding EPA drinking water models used in pesticide exposure assessment can be found at https://www.epa.gov/oppefed1/models/water/index.htm. Based on the Pesticide Root Zone Model/Exposure Analysis Modeling System (PRZM/EXAMS) and Tier 1 Rice Model and the Screening Concentration in Ground Water (SCI-GROW) models, the estimated drinking water concentrations (EDWCs) of prothioconazole for acute exposures are estimated to be 99.0 parts per billion (ppb) for surface water and 0.83 ppb for ground water. Chronic exposures for non-cancer assessments are estimated to be 0.83 ppb for surface water and 91.9 ppb for ground water. Modeled estimates of drinking water concentrations were directly entered into the dietary exposure model. For acute dietary risk assessment, the water concentration value of 99.0 ppb was used to assess the contribution to drinking water. For chronic dietary risk assessment, the water concentration of value 91.9 ppb was used to assess the contribution to drinking water. 3. From non-dietary exposure. The term ``residential exposure'' is used in this document to refer to non-occupational, non-dietary exposure (e.g., for lawn and garden pest control, indoor pest control, termiticides, and flea and tick control on pets). Prothioconazole is not registered for any specific use patterns that would result in residential exposure. 4. Cumulative effects from substances with a common mechanism of toxicity. Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA requires that, when considering whether to establish, modify, or revoke a tolerance, the Agency consider ``available information'' concerning the cumulative effects of a particular pesticide's residues and ``other substances that have a common mechanism of toxicity.'' Prothioconazole is a member of the conazole (triazole) class of pesticides. Although conazoles act similarly in plants (fungi) by inhibiting ergosterol biosynthesis, there is not necessarily a relationship between their pesticidal activity and their mechanism of toxicity in mammals. Structural similarities do not constitute a common mechanism of toxicity. Evidence is needed to establish that the chemicals operate by the same, or essentially the same sequence of major biochemical events (EPA, 2002). In conazoles, however, a variable pattern of toxicological responses are found; some are heptotoxic and hepatocarconogenic in mice. Some induce thyroid tumors in rats. Some induce developmental, reproductive, and neurological effects in rodents. Furthermore, the conazoles produce a diverse range of biochemical events including altered cholesterol levels, stress responses, and altered DNA methylation. It is not clearly understood whether these biochemical events are directly connected to their toxicological outcomes. Thus, there is currently no evidence to indicate that conazoles share common mechanism of toxicity. For information regarding EPA's procedures for cumulating effects from substances found to have a common mechanism of toxicity, see EPA's Web site at http//www.epa.gov/pesticides/cumulative. [[Page 67051]] Prothioconazole is a triazole-derived pesticide. Triazole-derived pesticides can form the common metabolite, 2,3,4-triazole and three triazole conjugates (triazole alanine, triazole acetic acid, and triazolylpyruvic acid). To support existing tolerances and to establish new tolerances for triazole-derivative pesticides, including prothioconazole, EPA conducted a health risk assessment for the exposure to 1,2,4-triazole, triazole alanine and triazole acetic acid resulting from the use of all current and pending uses of any triazole- derived fungicide. The risk assessment is a highly conservative, screening-level evaluation in terms of hazards associated with common metabolites (e.g., use of a maximum combination of uncertainty factors) and potential dietary and non-dietary exposures). In addition, the Agency retained the additional 10X Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) safety factor (SF) for the protection of infants and children. The Agency's prior risk assessment can be found in the propiconazole registration docket at https://www.regulations.gov. Updates to assess the addition of the commodities included in this rule may be found in docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0876 in the document titled ``Common Triazole Metabolites: Updated Dietary (Food + Water) Exposure and Risk Assessment to Address The New Section 3 Registrations For Use of Prothioconazole on Bushberry crop Subgroup 13-07B, Low Growing Berry, Except Strawberry, Crop Subgroup 13-07H, and Cucurbit Vegetables Crop Group 9; Use of Flutriafol on Coffee; and Ipconazole on Crop Group 6'' dated May 12, 2013. D. Safety Factor for Infants and Children 1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA provides that EPA shall apply an additional tenfold (10X) margin of safety for infants and children in the case of threshold effects to account for prenatal and postnatal toxicity and the completeness of the database on toxicity and exposure unless EPA determines based on reliable data that a different margin of safety will be safe for infants and children. This additional margin of safety is commonly referred to as the FQPA SF. In applying this provision, EPA either retains the default value of 10X, or uses a different additional safety factor when reliable data available to EPA support the choice of a different factor. 2. Prenatal and postnatal sensitivity. There is evidence of increased susceptibility following prenatal/or postnatal exposure in: i. Rat developmental toxicity studies with prothioconazole as well as its prothioconozole-desthio and sulfonic acid K salt metabolites. ii. Rabbit developmental toxicity studies with prothioconazole- desthio. iii. A rat developmental neurotoxicity study with prothioconazole- desthio. iv. Multi-generation reproduction studies in the rat with prothioconazole-destio effects, include skeletal structural abnormalities, such as cleft palate, deviated snout, malocclusion, extra ribs, and developmental delays. Available data also show that the skeletal effects such as extra ribs are not completely reversible after birth in the rat, but persist as development continues. Although increased susceptibility was seen in these studies, the Agency concluded there is a low concern and no residual uncertainties for prenatal and/or postnatal toxicity effects of prothioconazole because: Developmental toxicity NOAELs and LOAELs from prenatal exposure are well characterized after oral and dermal exposure; the off-spring toxicity NOAELs and LOAELs from postnatal exposures are well characterized; and the lowest NOAEL from the developmental studies, the NOAEL for the fetal effect malformed vertebral body and ribs in the rat dermal developmental study, is used for assessing acute risk of females 13 years and older. 3. Conclusion. EPA has determined that reliable data show the safety of infants and children would be adequately protected if the FQPA SF were reduced to 1X. That decision is based on the following findings: i. The toxicity database for prothioconazole is considered complete. ii. Evidence of quantitative and qualitative susceptibility of offspring were observed in the developmental studies. However, basing the POD on the offspring in the most sensitive of these studies provides the needed protection of offspring. iii. There are no residual uncertainties identified in the exposure databases. The dietary food exposure assessments were performed based on 100 PCT and EPA-recommended tolerance values for all of the proposed uses, average field trial residue levels for the existing uses, empirical processing factors, and livestock commodity residues derived from feeding studies and a balanced dietary burden. EPA made conservative (protective) assumptions in the ground and surface water modeling used to assess exposure to prothioconazole in drinking water. EPA used similarly conservative assumptions to assess postapplication exposure of children as well as incidental oral exposure of toddlers. These assessments will not underestimate the exposure and risks posed by prothioconazole. E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of Safety EPA determines whether acute and chronic dietary pesticide exposures are safe by comparing aggregate exposure estimates to the acute PAD (aPAD) and chronic PAD (cPAD). For linear cancer risks, EPA calculates the lifetime probability of acquiring cancer given the estimated aggregate exposure. Short-, intermediate-, and chronic-term risks are evaluated by comparing the estimated aggregate food, water, and residential exposure to the appropriate PODs to ensure that an adequate MOE exists. Based on the proposed and existing crop uses for prothioconazole, dietary aggregate exposures (i.e., food plus drinking water) are anticipated. There are no residential uses for prothioconazole and, therefore, no residential exposures are anticipated. Consequently, only dietary (food plus drinking water) exposures were aggregated for this assessment. 1. Acute risk. Using the exposure assumptions discussed in this unit for acute exposure, the acute dietary exposure from food and water to prothioconazole will occupy 30% of the aPAD for females, 13-49 years of age, the population group receiving the greatest exposure. 2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure assumptions described in this unit for chronic exposure, EPA has concluded that chronic exposure to prothioconazole from food and water will utilize 57% of the cPAD for all infants (<1 year of age) the population group receiving the greatest exposure. There are no residential uses for prothioconazole. 3. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S. population. Based on lack of evidence of carcinogenicity in two adequate rodent carcinogenicity studies, prothioconazole is not expected to pose a cancer risk to humans. 4. Determination of safety. Based on these risk assessments, EPA concludes that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to the general population or to infants and children from aggregate exposure to prothioconazole residues. IV. Other Considerations A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology Adequate enforcement methodologies, liquid chromatography methods with tandem mass spectrometry detection [[Page 67052]] (LC/MS/MS), are available to enforce the tolerance expression. The method may be requested from: Chief, Analytical Chemistry Branch, Environmental Science Center, 701 Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD 20755-5350; telephone number: (410) 305-2905; email address: firstname.lastname@example.com. B. International Residue Limits In making its tolerance decisions, EPA seeks to harmonize U.S. tolerances with international standards whenever possible, consistent with U.S. food safety standards and agricultural practices. EPA considers the international maximum residue limits (MRLs) established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as required by FFDCA section 408(b)(4). The Codex Alimentarius is a joint United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization food standards program, and it is recognized as an international food safety standards-setting organization in trade agreements to which the United States is a party. EPA may establish a tolerance that is different from a Codex MRL; however, FFDCA section 408(b)(4) requires that EPA explain the reasons for departing from the Codex level. There are no Canadian, Codex, or Mexican maximum residue limits (MRLs) in/on the proposed commodities. Canada will be establishing the same tolerances for members of the subject groups or subgroups. Therefore, harmonization is not an issue for this petition. C. Revisions to Petitioned-For Tolerances The petitioned-for tolerance for the low growing berry, except strawberry, crop subgroup 13-07H was requested at 0.15 ppm. The Agency modified the requested 0.15 ppm tolerance to 0.20 ppm which is appropriate based on an evaluation of the crop field trial data with the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Maximum Residue Level (MRL) Calculation Procedures. V. Conclusion Therefore, tolerances are established for residues of prothioconazole, (2-(2-(1-chlorocyclpropyl)-3-(2-chlorophenyl)-2- hydroxypropyl]-1,2-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thione), in or on bushberry, subgroup 13-07B at 2.0 ppm; berry, low growing, except strawberry, subgroup 13-07H at 0.20 ppm; and vegetables, cucurbit, crop group 9 at 0.30 ppm. VI. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews This final rule establishes tolerances under FFDCA section 408(d) in response to a petition submitted to the Agency. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has exempted these types of actions from review under Executive Order 12866, entitled ``Regulatory Planning and Review'' (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993). Because this final rule has been exempted from review under Executive Order 12866, this final rule is not subject to Executive Order 13211, entitled ``Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use'' (66 FR 28355, May 22, 2001) or Executive Order 13045, entitled ``Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks'' (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997). This final rule does not contain any information collections subject to OMB approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), nor does it require any special considerations under Executive Order 12898, entitled ``Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations'' (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994). Since tolerances and exemptions that are established on the basis of a petition under FFDCA section 408(d), such as the tolerance in this final rule, do not require the issuance of a proposed rule, the requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), do not apply. This final rule directly regulates growers, food processors, food handlers, and food retailers, not States or tribes, nor does this action alter the relationships or distribution of power and responsibilities established by Congress in the preemption provisions of FFDCA section 408(n)(4). As such, the Agency has determined that this action will not have a substantial direct effect on States or tribal governments, on the relationship between the national government and the States or tribal governments, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government or between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. Thus, the Agency has determined that Executive Order 13132, entitled ``Federalism'' (64 FR 43255, August 10, 1999) and Executive Order 13175, entitled ``Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments'' (65 FR 67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply to this final rule. In addition, this final rule does not impose any enforceable duty or contain any unfunded mandate as described under Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA) (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.). This action does not involve any technical standards that would require Agency consideration of voluntary consensus standards pursuant to section 12(d) of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note). VII. Congressional Review Act Pursuant to the Congressional Review Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), EPA will submit a report containing this rule and other required information to the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, and the Comptroller General of the United States prior to publication of the rule in the Federal Register. This action is not a ``major rule'' as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2). List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180 Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure, Agricultural commodities, Pesticides and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Dated: October 22, 2013. Lois Rossi, Director, Registration Division, Office of Pesticide Programs. Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is amended as follows: PART 180--[AMENDED] 0 1. The authority citation for part 180 continues to read as follows: Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371. 0 2. In Sec. 180.626, add alphabetically the following new entries to the table in paragraph (a)(1) to read as follows: Sec. 180.626 Prothioconazole; tolerances for residues. (a)(1) * * * ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Parts per Commodity million ------------------------------------------------------------------------ * * * * * Berry, low growing, except strawberry, subgroup 13-07H.... 0.20 Bushberry, subgroup 13-07B................................ 2.0 * * * * * Vegetable, cucurbit, crop group 9......................... 0.30 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ * * * * * [FR Doc. 2013-26772 Filed 11-7-13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560-50-P


text:
Client Login
Visit Us At Google+
New Federal Skilled Worker Program
Express Entry or Expression of Interest
New Federal Skilled Trade Program
Supervisa, New Parent/Grand Parents Program
Quebec Skilled Worker
Student Visas
Work Permit
Canadian Experience Class
Provincial Nominees
Family Sponsorships
CAIPS Reports and interpretation
Federal Investor
Quebec Investor
PNP Investor
View All..
Study In Canada
To be eligible to study in Canada
You must have been accepted by a school, college, university or other educational institution in Canada.
You must prove that you have enough money to pay for your: tuition fees
living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada and
return transportation for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada.
You must be a law-abiding citizen with no criminal record and not be a risk to the security of Canada. You may have to provide a police certificate.
You must be in good health and willing to complete a medical examination, if necessary.
You must satisfy a visa officer that you will leave Canada when you have completed your studies.
In some cases, you do not require a Study Permit to go to school in Canada.
If you wish to study in a short-term course or program
You do not need a Study Permit if you plan to take a course or program in Canada that lasts six months or less. You must complete the course or program within the period authorized for your stay in Canada. Even if you do not need a Study Permit, it is a good idea to apply for a permit before you come to Canada. If you decide that you want to continue your studies in another program after you complete your short-term course or program, you must apply through a Canadian visa office outside Canada for a Study Permit if you do not already have one.
Foreign representatives to Canada
If you are a family member or staff member of a foreign representative to Canada accredited by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, you may not need a permit to study in Canada. You should contact your embassy in Canada. Your embassy can contact the Office of Protocol at Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada to find out whether you need a Study Permit.
Members of foreign armed forces
If you are a member of a foreign armed force under the Visiting Forces Act, you do not need a permit to study in Canada. If your family members, including minor children, want to study in Canada, they must meet the requirements.
How can Nexus Canada help?
Once you have received your offer of acceptance from a recognized school, university or college, Nexus Canada can assist you by preparing the Application for Study Permit and advise you regarding the supporting documents required to increase the chance for a successful application.
Home |
About Us |
Services |
Study in Canada |
Work In Canada |
Contact Us


text: Culture Art Modesto native points camera at Hasidim, survivors Facebook Twitter Email SMS WhatsApp Share By Hannah Rubin | November 4, 2016 The first time Cliff Lester found himself in the middle of a crowd of dancing Chabadnicks, his rabbi jabbed him in the ribs and said, "Nu, Cliff? Take out your camera!" Lester, a photographer born and raised in Modesto, had never considered pursuing fine art photography until he was introduced to his local Chabad community at age 45. Now 61, he is a full-time photography professor at Cypress College, near Long Beach, and travels the world shooting the inner circles of Chabad life and elderly Holocaust survivors. "Tova," Cliff Lester photograph from Holocaust survivor series Lester will be in Modesto on Sunday, Nov. 6, to discuss his photographic works, in conjunction with a performance of "The Diary of Anne Frank" at the Gallo Center for the Arts. The son of two Holocaust survivors and longtime Modesto residents, Lester grew up attending the town's Congregation Beth Shalom. His mother, who immigrated to the U.S. from Amsterdam in 1947, was a childhood friend of Anne Frank's, and was mentioned in her famous diary. Trying to decide between majoring in pre-med or business as an undergraduate, he settled on photography, a decision that took him to Santa Barbara to study at the Brooks Institute of Photography. With a concentration in advertising photography, Lester went on to start his own studio, which he ran for 20 years, working for clients such as Johnny Rockets, Denny's and the NFL. In 2000, an ice cream client invited him to join a lunchtime Chabad study session. Lester surprised himself by enjoying it. "It was the last place I ever thought I'd go to study and I was very intimidated," says Lester. "But it got me thinking about all the ways I could do more to be connected to Judaism in my life. I liked that." It wasn't until the two watched a Chabad telethon together that Lester realized what he really wanted to do: photograph Chabadniks. He asked his local Chabad rabbi if he could join him at the next telethon, a televised fundraiser held every year in the Los Angeles area, and was immediately invited. His rabbi liked his photographs so much that he was extended a permanent invitation to photograph the annual event. "Next thing I know, we're flying to Crown Heights to photograph at 770," said Lester, referring to 770 Eastern Parkway, the international headquarters of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement and synagogue of the late Chabad rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson. "Everywhere I travel, he has a rabbi waiting for me, to show me around. I've been going to places I've never dreamed I'd be, and learning about my faith at a deep level. I have thousands and thousands of pictures of Hasidic dudes all around the world. " Cliff Lester with some of his photographs Around this time, Lester got a call from Cypress College asking if he would teach an introductory lighting class. Over the next three years he taught as a visiting professor at a number of colleges in his area, and in 2002, the full-time position opened up at Cypress. The death of his mother in 2004 caused Lester to turn his camera lens to Holocaust survivors. "Every time I would talk about the Holocaust, I felt a connection to my mom. To keeping her memory alive," said Lester about his motivation to seek out survivors for his photography project. "Their message is much broader than just for the Jewish people — what happened to them shouldn't happen to any human being ever again. These photographs help spread that message." He says he decided to photograph the survivors as simple portraits against white backgrounds, in the style of famed portrait photographer Richard Avedon, so that the lines of their faces would tell their story. "Some of the people I photographed are upset that I make them look too wrinkly," said Lester. "I edit kind of harshly because it's necessary. It's what grabs people's attention. It's what tells the story." Since beginning his Holocaust survivors project, Lester's photographs have been acquired by the Sala and Aron Samueli Holocaust Memorial Library at Chapman University, and are on exhibit at the Student Center Gallery at Cypress College. Last spring, he organized Cypress College's first Yom HaShoah memorial service around the photography exhibit. Over the summer, Lester traveled to Berlin with his father and brother to photograph the town that his father had been forced to leave in 1939. Ultimately, he says his goal is to make "the nicest Holocaust survivor book out there, with words and photographs all about accepting one another." "My closest connection to Judaism as a kid was going with my father's father to services," said Lester. "Just joining the old guys for Shabbat services on Saturday mornings. That is something that has been in my core — when I spend time with these kinds of people, I feel right at home." Cliff Lester will speak on Sunday, Nov. 6 at 4:45 p.m. at the Gallo Center for the Arts, 1000 I Street, Modesto, immediately following the sold-out performance of "The Diary of Anne Frank." Other performances of the play are on Nov. 4-5. www.galloarts.org Hannah Rubin Hannah Rubin is a writer at J. She can be reached at [email protected]. Also On J. Local Voice At this year's Z3 Conference, we're reclaiming the Jewish conversation Jewish Life The weirdest Hanukkah gifts of 2022 Tech ADL: 1 in 5 adults exposed to white supremacy while online gaming Torah We need a Judaism steered by joy, not antisemitism Subscribe to our Newsletter Enter Email Sign Up


text:
Having the proper attic insulation increases your home's energy efficiency, but how? It's science, really: convection, conduction, and radiation. Those are the only ways thermal energy (heat) can move in and out of your Michigan home. Learn how to increase your home's energy efficiency without overspending.
Recommended R-Value for Michigan Attics
Michigan is unique among the 48 contiguous states. It has three different energy zones on the federal Energy Star "recommended insulation" map. If you live in the U.P., for example, you are in Zone 7. Cadillac? Zone 6. Kalamazoo? Zone 5.
Where you are in Michigan, though, does not matter — all three zones call for the same attic insulation:
- R49 to R60 new insulation in an uninsulated attic
- R38 to R49 new insulation added to three to four inches of existing insulation
This recommendation optimizes energy efficiency and investment costs since no insulation is free. Why spend money unnecessarily if it adds little to no benefit, after all?
Check Your Attic
A careful homeowner can check the attic insulation energy efficiency before enlisting the help of professional insulation installers. You may need a flashlight, but nothing else is really needed.
You may wish to avoid walking (or crawling, or stooping over awkwardly) in your attic. You can still learn about your attic from the access ladder or stairway, without actually climbing around in the small confines.
Look at the joists (the horizontal wood structural members spanning the walls of your home). If you can see the joists, you probably have insufficient insulation! If you can see the top of the drywall that forms your home's ceiling, you have no insulation.
Three Ways
Heat escapes your Michigan home by traveling through the air (convection), through solid materials like drywall and joists (conduction) or by energy waves (radiation). R-values refer to the resistance to heat transfer of a given material. Insulation in your attic does not stop radiation, convection or conduction – it slows it down, which saves you money!
Any insulation works because it provides an inefficient way for heat to escape. Fiberglass and cellulose trap millions of air pockets, which means heat has to travel by hopping from one air pocket to the next — very inefficient and slow! Most insulation materials do the same thing, leaving most of your expensively heated (or cooled) air inside your living space.
Any path the air can take, it will. Small gaps, like around windows and doors, steal dollars from you. In the summer, hot air penetrates your home's energy envelope. In winter, warm inside air escapes outside.
Your goal is to add insulation in the attic, weatherstrip around windows and doors, and lower your energy bill without increasing your insulation bill too much.
Too Much!
If R49 is good, you might think R98 would be twice as good. It is not. Why? Because the energy bill savings has to be balanced against the rising cost of adding so much insulation.
So how much attic insulation is too much? Start with the Energy Star recommendations. In an attic already insulated with bare-bones rolls of fiberglass batts, skillfully blown-in R38 could be sufficient. Going all the way up to R49 may not give back enough savings to make the installation cost-effective.
Modern Methods
Once upon a time, actual newspapers often served as attic insulation and wall insulation in the hands of "clever" do-it-yourselfers. Aside from the fire risk, newspapers are not very efficient. The cellulose is a good idea, but it works better when fluffed up, like cotton balls.
That is part of the secret behind today's modern methods of blowing in fluffy, energy-efficient attic insulation. When trained on difficult-to-reach nooks and crannies in Michigan attics, the installation blower can place this insulation perfectly, sealing up those tiny holes and putting a stop to energy bandits.
When operated by a trained, professional insulation installer, this blown-in fiberglass insulation remains fluffy and full of air pockets. Contrast that with fiberglass batts. When rolled batts of fiberglass are laid down, they often get crushed, reducing their energy efficiency.
Once blown into place, fluffy fiberglass insulation will sit quietly for decades, preventing heat loss or summer heat infiltration. You will see savings month after month, year-round, on your energy bills.
Trust trained insulation professionals to do the optimum attic insulation job for you. Trust Victors Roofing, because we know roofs and what's under them — attics! Contact us today to learn how our blown-in fiberglass insulation can boost your Michigan home's energy efficiency. We balance installation expenses with anticipated energy savings to help you select the ideal amount of attic insulation. A one-time cost for materials, labor and installation will return money to you year after year through energy savings.


text:
When disaster strikes, and things get rough for Georgia boaters, there's only one man to call – Capt. Jon Gridley. As a franchisee, he operates four area lake-based Sea Tow franchises throughout the State, Capt. Jon knows what it takes to bring people in his community back from the brink.
Whether it's a simple marine salvage project or a complete cleanup effort following a devastating storm, Capt. Jon has the crew to get the job done. With 11 captains under his watch representing the full spectrum of marine expertise, including divers and hazmat specialists – they're ready for whatever nature throws their way.
"We've done jobs all over the state of Georgia", Capt. Jon said. Whether it's a full hurricane cleanup or small marine salvage job, there's very little we're not prepared for."
Sometimes, Mother Nature throws Capt. Jon and his team a curveball; but even that doesn't stop his team of experts from finding creative ways to get the job done.
Late last year, a severe storm rolled through Points West Army Resort in nearby Appling, leaving 35 boats and the dock to which they were moored, turned upside-down. It was an extremely large and complex job. As Capt. Jon analyzed the damage, he thought about how helpful it would be if he had a birds-eye view of the scene.
A few hours later, Capt. Jon was flying a new drone overhead, locating missing boats that had been blown away from the marina. From this aerial view, he formulated a strategy to complete the tasks quickly and thoroughly – saving time and money that otherwise would have been spent searching the lake.
"I pride myself on being able to get it done, no matter what kind of job is thrown our way," he said. "The drone was just one example of that. It has not only opened, but has created an entirely new door to the way we approach salvages."
This sort of on-your-feet thinking has earned Capt. Jon an enviable reputation as a problem solver throughout the State.
"Insurance companies and marina owners know we'll get their job done, and done well," he added. "When disaster hits, we're always the first number they dial, and I couldn't be prouder of that."
Capt. Jon's crews serve thousands of boaters statewide all year long, and being an exemplary neighbor and corporate citizen is of the utmost importance to them. He supplies and maintains more than 30 Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Stations throughout their service areas. Capt. Jon has become a key team member for Georgia's First Lady Sandra Deal and the Department of Natural Resources in its state-wide SPLASH Water Safety Campaign by delivering more than 350 life jackets, with more to come.
"At the end of the day, we just want to be able to say that we're always there for boaters when they need us," Capt. Jon said. "Whether that's a large-scale marine salvage job, a simple tow, or handing out life jackets to boaters who may not have one, we want to be there as good boating stewards on waters across the state.


text:
Beachfront Hotels in Panama City Beach
One of the best ways to visit Panama City Beach is to wake up to a gorgeous, Gulf-front view. With a variety of accommodations, you and your family will be able to find the perfect home away from home. If you are looking for a place to stay that has a hot tub on every balcony, Hidden Dunes is the perfect spot for you. Want a perfect view of the pool and the beach? Shores of Panama offers beachfront views in every room, as well as a view over one of the largest pools in Northwest Florida. No matter what kind of hotel you are looking for, we've got you covered.


text:
Gonna be trying to revive my MMO blogging once more since I'm dragging on my otome gaming lately (ignoring the fact that there just aren't that many games to play period and my interest is kinda waning.) Today I will be talking about the FFXIV and FFXV collaborations, one of which began yesterday! This contains spoilers so beware!
Continue reading Final Fantsy 14 x Final Fantasy 15 Collaborations


text:
Over the last few years, Yahoo has suffered two major hacks affecting billions of its users. The first, took place in 2013 and the second took place in 2014 but users were only warned about the breach in 2016. Yahoo has already had to pay fines and undergo investigation for its lack of disclosure but the story isn't over yet, as this week the company agreed to pay back $50 million to affected users.
Following the massive data breaches that saw three billion Yahoo accounts put at risk, a class-action lawsuit was launched in the US. Now, according to the Associated Press, a settlement agreement has been reached, which will see Yahoo pay $50 million to people in the US and Israel for being affected by the data breach. The class-action lawsuit will see 200 million people eligible for a piece of the settlement, although the California Federal Court still needs to approve this course of action.
The first major attack on Yahoo took place in August 2013, but the company did not let its customers know until 2016. A similar situation occurred in 2014, where a hack allowed the user details of 500 million accounts to fall into the hands of criminals. Yahoo did not tell its users about this hack until 2016, though the company did admit that some of its employees were aware of the breach well beforehand.
A $50 million payout is very low and 200 million users is only a fraction of the total number of people affected by the hacks. Ultimately, a $50 million settlement results in $25 per eligible person. However, some people will get more than others depending on documentation and losses. Some will be able to get as much as $375, others will receive $125. Those who paid for Yahoo's 'premium' email subscription will be able to get a 25 percent refund on the subscription cost.
KitGuru Says: In my opinion, Yahoo has gotten off lightly in this case. Sure, the company has had to pay a $35 million fine already, but this class-action lawsuit settlement seems very low given that 3 billion accounts were affected, not to mention the fact that it was all covered up for two years.


text: Get out my lane... Rage KangaROOS coming through! Sporting Gucci Mane Green suede and Waka Flocka Flame Red leather on black mesh, with white Dynacoil midsoles and gummy outsoles, this ROO is ballin'! So if you are up for some lane changin' and chain swangin' this weekend drop by Shelta for some ROOS Rage.


text:
Today's challenge was to organize your computer desk. Since Mike & I use laptops at home, we don't have a computer desk, so I decided to do my crafting station instead. After lots of little holiday projects over the past two months, it was looking pretty terrible. I love sewing and crafting, but it requires a lot of "stuff" and takes up some space. I definitely get more creative and get more done when the space is tidy.
You can click over to A Bowl Full of Lemon's Day Two page to see her instructions if you'd like. I kind of made it up as I went along today.
It dawned on me that blogging this process meant I had to show everyone how unorganized I've been the past year. Embarrassing for sure, but I really needed the accountability. So all of you people who are Miss Organization and have it all together, don't judge!
I forgot to mention that yesterday's task only took 10-15 minutes, so everyone has time to jump in. It doesn't take hours to complete the challenges.
Day Two: Desk
Time Spent: 30 minutes
Regular pens & pencils, crafting pens, sewing scissors, regular scissors, scalloped edge scissors.
The filing cabinet next to the crafting desk. Ribbon, felt, scrap materials.
Yarn, doilies & extra stuff on top. Sewing machine and tackle box of embroidery floss on the bottom.
Maybe I'll get around to addressing these baby shower invitations now that my desk is clean!
This 3-drawer bin sits under the desk and holds all the extra supplies.
I've survived two days! Tomorrow is the tupperware cabinet. I'm scared.


text:
On Friday 20th October the Company performed Unfinished Business at the Bloomsbury Festival in the Lumen URC Church. It was a great performance and some of our patrons came along too. Whilst they were there we asked them for their view of Outside Edge, here's what they had to say:
Jimmy Page: "I've been following Outside Edge for a number of years and they continue to go from strength to strength with a great performances, passion and commitment."
Pierce Brosnan: "I am proud to be a Patron of a theatre company whose work is essential to the lives of so many of us who have family members suffering from addiction. The work of the Outside Edge Theatre Company must be seen by all who care for the well-being of those whom we love, and supported by the many who enjoy the world of the theatre. For anyone who feels that they have lost their voice, their way in this life and the feeling for life, I believe that the Outside Edge Theatre Company could be that haven where they can reconnect to their true self through the art of acting, the art of writing and the voice of poetry and song. To talk story and to make a difference, not only in their life, but the lives of others."
Simon Woodroffe: "Outside Edge's work prevents and and replaces the hope and talent lost to addiction and with the high quality of their productions I believe we will see them in the West End and on Broadway soon is my prediction …One day future generations will look back at Outside Edge's work and say this is where it all started – inspiring worldwide audiences and healing addiction."
Finally, a few words from our longest company member, Mike Halden, who has been with us for 16 years and performed Unfinished Business alongside other cast members, Emmer Thompson, Liam Quinn, Christopher Holt & Jeff Blair.
Michael Halden: "As part of our outreach programme, on 20th October Outside Edge was a guest of Bloomsbury Festival, performing our workshop production 'Unfinished Business' at the Lumen URC Church in Tavistock Place. This spiritual, arts, community and social centre has the physical embodiment of a ray of light at its architectural axis. The play explores the toxic mix of co-dependence and substance addiction, illustrated with adult material and libertarian language. The Lumen ministry welcomed us warmly and encouraged our open expression. A near full house in this venue, intimate despite its soaring nave, was gratifying. Among the audience were fellow Outside Edgers and guests from Bilimankwhe Arts, the London company having close ties with Malawi, who gave their lively production of 'The Tempest' at the Styx in Tottenham. This strong support was augmented by a sizeable clutch of Outside Edge patrons and friends: Jimmy Page, Simon Woodruffe, Pierce Brosnan, Jay Benedict and David Charkham. Spurred on, the performers gave it some welly, which was warmly appreciated by the house, and led to much mutual and constructive exchange at the curtain."
Thank you to Jimmy, Pierce and Simon for joining us at the Festival and for your kind and encouraging words. Below are some pictures from the night!
Thank you to Stephen Nussey for the photography.
Unfinished Business is directed by Susie Millar and Christopher Holt and is available for touring in 2018 in treatment centres and rehab clinics, please get in touch for more info!


text:
A procedure designed to reduce the influence of social desirability bias in measuring attitudes in a aggregate group. Subjects or given a pair of questions that are true-false, yes-no, agree-disagree format. One of the questions is the legitimate target question and the other is an ambiguous filter. Each participant then rolls a die to determine which question he or she will answer. They then answer the question, but the interviewer is not aware of which of the pair of questions was answered. Even though the interviewer is unaware with question was answered, the technique has validity because the use of probability theory will provide an estimate to the distribution of responses to the target question in the group.
RANDOMIZED-RESPONSE TECHNIQUE: "Randomized-response technique uses a die or other device to tell the subject which question to answer, thus avoiding the possibility that they will give a "socially acceptable" response."
Cite this page: N., Sam M.S., "RANDOMIZED-RESPONSE TECHNIQUE," in PsychologyDictionary.org, April 28, 2013, https://psychologydictionary.org/randomized-response-technique/ (accessed December 2, 2022).


text:
Why locals love it
One is for sure, you won't find so easily an other bar in town with such range of beers! Black, red or blonde? From what country? It's not so easy to choose? Just say what you would like to try and they will recommend you some of their beers!
Why you should visit it
If you are into rock music and, of course, into beers, you will enjoy your night visit there. Also, all sorts of things are hanged on the wall, just sit and observe!
Special tip
There are also greek beers to try there, like Craft, which comes from a local brewery.
PulpΑλεξάνδρου Σβώλου 8
- +30 231 027 0830
- www.facebook.com/pages/Pulp/1…


text:
November 10, 2015
Nicole + Dan | Georgetown Waterfront Park Engagement Photos | Washington, DC Wedding Photographer
Gorgeous day + the Georgetown waterfront and vistas of the Key Bridge, the Kennedy Center and the Washington Monument = tons of fun for Dan and Nicole's engagement session! We can't wait for their upcoming December wedding. Following are our favorites from the shoot: enjoy!


text:
I have always been a fan of dressing up. I love to go shopping for new clothes, and looking for cute outfits. I also like dressing up in the bedroom. My main goal is to someday own a school girl outfit. There is just something about that plaid mini skirt and white button up shirt, along with wearing pigtails.
A few months ago I bought a French maid teddy. I have only really worn it once, as I have no one to dress up for. I really wanted to get the school girl outfit then, but it was a little out of my price range.
I have also been a big fan of sexy negligees and lingerie. The other day at the mall I saw a sale I couldn't resist. I also saw some really cute panties that I couldn't resist. I never really cared too much about underwear, since no one sees it but me, but I had to. I got three pairs, as it was three for thirty dollars. Yes, I know it is expensive, and way more than I have ever paid for only three pairs. I mean, I can get a pack of ten panties for a third of that price. Still, they were adorable. I will even post pictures at the end.
Today though, I went all out. I hung out with one of my friends, and we decided to go to the "lover's boutique." They have many, many outfits, costumes, and lots of sexy lingerie sets to wear. They also have a very nice collection of toys. We have two sex shops around here, and this one is more couple friendly. The other one is very shady.
Anyways, I found the glass dildos and fell in love. I decided I had to have one. That was forty bucks to my tab, but that was perfect for my price range. I walked around, and saw a lot of toys I always wanted to buy online but never could afford. One I saw was way smaller than I imagined (We-Vibe), and the other was way bigger than I had imagined (The Cone).
I asked the sales associates about wireless bullets, with the idea of putting the bullet in my panties and giving forbidden fruit the remote. They had them on sale for half off. I was going to get one, even had the box in my hand. At least I did until I saw the cutest negligee. It was two pieces, a thong and a see through top (long, about to mid thighs) and built in bra. I thought for a minute, and decided to put the bullet back. I took the outfit and asked the cashier if I could try it on, as they had fitting rooms.
It fit perfectly. It even made me look slimmer, and way more comfortable with myself, as I am not the most comfortable person with my body. Because it fit so well, I was hesitant to put it back and forget about it. It was fifty bucks, but it could so be worth it in times like the threesome I will be going to. I got the set and the glass dildo, which came with its own pillow pouch.
So now, I ask you, my readers. What do you like to dress up in or have your partner wear? Where online do you like to shop for these things? What do you fantasize about wearing or seeing someone wear? I would love to hear your feedback.


text:
For Part I, II, III
|Provisional Certificates (in original) issued by the institution last attended. (Only for part I).
|Marks certificates of the class last passed (original only for part I) and two attested copies.
|Character certificate issued by the Head of the Institution last attended only for part I.
|In the case of private candidates, their character certificate should be signed by a First Class Magistrate/ Professor of the College/ Panchayat Sarpanch/ MLA concerned/ SHO.
|Three similar copies of a recent passport size photograph.
|Matriculation Certificate (original) and two attested copies (only for part I)
|Transfer certificate of father or guardian in case of children of military/ Para Military personal or Central Govt. Employees.
|Reserved category certificate from the competent authority as stated in SRO-126 Dated 28-06-1994 (original and two attested copies).
|Students passing from School Board or Universities other than J&K Board of School Education or Jammu University are required to produce a migration certificate and two attested copies thereof.
|All the undertakings (one year gap period / Anti Ragging) are to be submitted in the form of an Affidavit on Non-Judicial Stamp of Rs. 20/- duly attested by First Class Magistrate/Notary is to be submitted by every selected candidate.


text:
Subject: Social Studies
A climate region is the part of the world where more or less the same kind of climate, soil and vegetation are found and where people's economic activities are similar. This note has information about climate and natural vegetation including the factors affecting the climate.
A particular type of vegetation grows in a particular climate. If we make a world tour we will notice different types of vegetation in different parts of the world. For example, the vegetation of the equatorial climate is different from the vegetation of the tropical monsoon climate. But the same type of vegetation is found throughout the tropical monsoon region. Although changes have occurred in the natural vegetation due to the change in climate, environmental deterioration and human activities, we can still see certain patterns of vegetation and wildlife zones protected by climate.
Polar Zone
Tundra or Polar Climate
70° to 90° North
Cool Temperate Oceanic Climate
60° to 70° North
Temperate Zone
Cool Temperate Oceanic Climate
Temperate Grassland Climate
St. Lawrence or Manchurian Climate
45° to 60° North
Mediterranean Climate
Temperate Desert Climate
China Type of Climate
30° to 45° North
Tropical Zone
Tropical Desert Climate
Tropical Monsoon Climate
20° to 30° North
Tropical Grassland Climate
5° to 20° North
Equatorial Climate
0° to 5° North
Factors affecting climate:
Many factors affect climate. Among them, three factors that affect climate are as follows:
The height measured from sea level is called altitude. At low altitude there is thick mass of air which can absorb sufficient amount of sun heat, so it is hot at low altitude. However, when the altitude increases, the temperature also gradually decreases. Therefore, at high altitude there is very thin mass of air which cannot absorb sufficient amount of sun's heat, so it is cold at high altitude. The temperature decreases by 10C when the altitude increases by 160 m to 165m.
It is one most important factor that affects the climate of a particular place. When the latitude increases, the distant from the sun also increases, so the temperature gradually decreases. The equator lies very near from the sun, so direct ray falls over there and it is very hot throughout the year. But poles lie far from the sun. So, slanting rays fall over there and it is very cold. So, it is cold winter is dominant throughout the year. No plants and animals can survive on poles particularly South Pole.
Distance From The Sea and Ocean
Summer: During summer, the earth lies near the sun, so the perpendicular sun rays fall over there. The water of sea or ocean gets heated, and cools down slowly in comparison to land. In comparison with water, land gets heated faster and cools down fast. As the distance from the sea or ocean increases, the temperature increases. During summer, due to direct fall of sun rays over the sea or ocean, the water is evaporated that causes highest rainfall in this season.
Winter: During winter, the earth lies a little bit far from the sun. So, slanting sun rays fall over the earth. As, we know that, water absorbs more sun heat than the land. So, when the distance from the sea or ocean increases, the temperature gradually decreases as the land cools down fast. Due to less slanting rays during winter, less rainfall takes place as less evaporation takes place. Due to which the days in winter are shorter than in summer and less rainfall takes place.
Mountain Range
When there is a mountain range in the path of humid air passing, the area behind the mountain range is dry, and the area ahead has monsoon climate. This is why the humid air from the Bay of Bengal can't reach Tibet and is dry, whereas Nepal has monsoon climate.
Dry air travelling through an area makes the climate dry, and humid wind makes the area cooler.
Areas with many types of vegetation have humid air while areas with no vegetation become dry.
The color of soil also affects the climate in a way. The areas with black soil have warmer climate and areas with white soil have colder climate.
Tropical Monsoon Climate:
This kind of climate is found up to the altitude of 1200 m from the sea level. 300C to 420C temperature in summer and 150C in winter. Average temperature is 1200 cm yearly.
Warm Temperate:
It is found 1200m to 2100m of Chure and Mahabharat range. Temperature is 150C in summer and 50C in winter. Rainfall is 250cm in southern belt and 100cm in northern.
Cold Temperate:
It is found from 2100m - 3350m. Temperature is around 100C to 150C in summer and falls to 00C in winter. Rainfall is less than 50 cm.
Alpine Climate:
It is found from 3350m-5000m. Maximum temperature is around 100C in summer but other time falls below the freezing point. Rainfall is about 30cm whole year.
Polar climate:
This temperature is found above 5000 m. Under this climate, temperature always remains below 00C.Whole the year snowfalls.
Sub tropical forest:
It is found up to 1200m of chure range. Sufficient rainfall and temperature (thick, tall, strong, evergreen trees, Sal, Sisau, Khayar, Seemal, etc.)
Temperate deciduous forest:
This type of climate is found from 1200m-2100m. It lies at upper part of Chure to lower part of Mahabharat range. Due to frost, leaves of the trees fall during winter, mixed forest of deciduous and coniferous trees.
Temperate coniferous evergreen forest:
This type of climate is found from 2100m-3350m i.e. from upper to Mahabharat range to lower of Himalayan range. Soft needle shaped trees are found in this region. For example Champ, Salla, Deodar, Dhupi, Simal, etc.
Alpine vegetation:
It is found from 3550m - 5000m. In this region less temperature and less rainfall is found. Thus, here are no strong and tall trees.
Tundra vegetation:
This type of vegetation is found above 5000 m. Excessive snowfall and steep land covered with snow. Throughout the year, only mosses and lichens are found.
The major factor that affects the climate of Nepal is altitude.
The tropical zone with rainfall throughout the year is on both sides of the equator between 5°N and 7°S. Tropical and subtropical climate is there to the north and south of this zone.
The dry zones in the world are those zones that lie between 15°to 35° latitude of both hemispheres. A large part of the dry zone is in the North Africa, Central Australia, Western Asia, Western part of North America and Mid-south of the South America.
Latitude controls the climate by determining the slope and incidence of the sunrays. They slant extensively towards far north or far south. Slanting rays spread over and heat larger regions, but has low intensity, as on the poles. But the vertical rays cover and heat a smaller area intensively as on the equator. Here, higher the altitude, less intense is the heat. Indonesia has hotter climate than Nepal because it is near to the equator in comparison to Nepal.
The factors affecting climate are latitude, altitude, land and water distribution, distance from the sea, distance from the sun, prevailing winds and ocean currents, surface covering the land, volcanism, solar constant sunspots, wind direction and nature of mountain chains, mountain barriers.
1°C, temperature decreases in every 160-165 meters of altitude. So, it is taken as one of the influencing factors for determining climate.
We feel cool at higher altitude because of the decrease in temperature at every 165 meters.
The cause of the difference between the climate of Terai and Himalayan region is the altitude which brings variation in the temperature.
Deforestation causes adverse effects on environment. They can be presented in the following points:
© 2019-20 Kullabs. All Rights Reserved.


text: Thanks to Ann M. Noser for the opportunity to read and review her book, How to Date Dead Guys. This story is interesting from the beginning. College age female roommates who don't really consider each other friends, only acquaintances, open up the tale of Emma. Emma deals with a tragedy alone, without a friend or family member to support her. She tries to solve a huge problem which backfires and causes more problems. While trying to solve these problems, she makes new friends and helps them with their struggles. Emma also grows closer to her own family in the process. The ending left the story open and is part of a series, The Witch's Handbook. While reading How to Date Dead Guys, I realized that one of the saddest traits of human nature is the inability to show empathy some of the time, especially when people need it the most. I am interested in reading more of this series.


text:
March should have been a lot wetter in Billings. Instead, it was the 10th-driest March in 75 years of recordkeeping.
Just .42 inch of precipitation, mostly snow, fell on the city during the month. That's just 38 percent of the average 1.12 inches that usually hits the ground in March.
"To me, that's the story," said Keith Meier, meteorologist in charge at the National Weather Service office in Billings. "March is kind of the beginning of our wet season. That didn't happen last month."
I haven't been talking about how dry it is since it doesn't do any good but this is so true, March is normally a fairly wet month and it's been drier than hell lately and I don't see anything coming to change it. Damn. We sure could use some moisture.
Keep your faith in God, but keep your powder dry. Oliver Cromwell


text:
Hello happy readers! Happy Friday. I'm thrilled for this weekend because I am supposed to do my second escape room with my group tomorrow and I am beyond thrilled to see if we can continue the success in the Mad Hatter room. Today's review kind of follows along the lines, going down the rabbit hole in a tale of a girl and her adventure wondering if she is going mad. The book is Mirror Me by Tara St. Pierre. I reviewed another title by the author Just a Few Inches some time back and enjoyed the writing and message so I was more than ready to give this new one a read. I was provided with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Mirror Me follows our MC Hannah who is currently under lock and key with strict rules and punishments in place while attending a private school. It seems a bit harsh, the list of unapproved things but Hannah is trying to be better. These are in place after a major screw up the previous year. She is trying to get her life back on track and earn back trust. So when she suddenly starts getting in trouble, accused of breaking the rules she has been so diligent to follow, no one believes she isn't doing them. She can't even look at her own reflection, seeing a completely different person in there. Are her past mistakes coming back to haunt her or is she losing her mind.
At the start we know Hannah got into some trouble and has since moved and started over but with no trust built with her mother and some serious rules. I wanted to know just what happened to inspire these rules from the start and getting little bits along the way made me even more curious as I tried to figure it out. Her mom, while I really appreciated her taking an active role in her life unlike some parents in YA who are never around, I think she was a bit harsh. The whole dynamic works well within the story and really plays out over the length of the story. There are also moments where I felt honest empathy for several of the characters.
Hannah is very hard on herself and is punishing herself for what happened. I liked that she was remorseful for what happened, even before we knew what that was. She was the kind of person who knows she was making mistakes and is trying to learn from them and change. Which is why I thought her mom was too harsh most of the time. You can sympathize with her and what she is going through in trying to atone. Hannah has her friends that she is close with and you can feel the bonds there even through ups and downs. With friends you don't always have to agree with each other or approve of things they do to be friends. Not every friendship is perfect but I enjoyed that they were able to work through difficult times. Still they have plenty of hilarious moments and real sincerity.
The romance in this was rather cute and a bit different. I liked the overall twist and the fall out of that twist. I think everyone took it so much better than I think I would have. The book has many great and positive messages that I really enjoyed. They weren't shoved at you to make a point but woven into a fast and engaging story. A girl with a past has things start happening that she can't explain. Is she losing her mind? Is her past coming back for her? The play in binding just a touch of magical/fantasy elements was perfect. Anything is possible.
This was a quick read for me and I probably would have finished it in one sitting had I not been out of town at the time squeezing in family visits and the like. It was easy to pick back up and fall right back into the story. I would easily recommend this story to anyone for the plot and the way it makes you think and take stock. Plus any book where you seriously doubt the sanity of the character is something I want to read. I'm happy this book fell into my radar because it was an enjoyable read for me and that is always a positive!
Until next time…


text:
RoVE – a vital part of New Zealand's post-COVID economic recovery
RoVE – a vital part of New Zealand's post-COVID economic recovery
As New Zealand went into Level 4 lockdown in March, the Reform of Vocational Education (RoVE) leadership group came together online to consider the implications of COVID-19 on our work.
We had a clear plan for 2020 and discussed where our work may need to focus and adapt, including how we will make this happen. I'm sure discussions like this were occurring across New Zealand, and the world. It was clear that we needed to think about how RoVE may be asked to support New Zealand's recovery.
In the following days it became apparent that rather than slowing down, what we are creating in RoVE was going to become more important. Increasing opportunities for industry and employers to be involved in vocational education, ensuring learners can access relevant and flexible education and training, supporting learners in their current training, and building skills in the regions are all crucial to supporting New Zealand and New Zealanders.
The Minister, through his clear direction and recent Budget announcements, reaffirmed that RoVE is vital to New Zealand's economic recovery. This is addressed in the Government's significant investment in vocational education and training. It recognises the importance of protecting work-based training wherever possible, supporting displaced workers and learners, and encouraging people to seek careers in industries that are most likely to lead our economic recovery.
We have also continued to engage with people in the vocational education sector, across industry, and in other Government departments – and their message repeatedly has been, "This is important. We want to stay involved, we want to keep going."
During lockdown we did change our style of work to online workshops and meetings. Practical challenges aside, we found that across all our projects, people were engaged and positive, and I'd like to acknowledge and thank everyone who continued to contribute to our work. Collaboration has and will always be the foundation of our work.
I'd also like to acknowledge the sheer volume of thinking and work that the RoVE team and other education officials undertook in challenging circumstances, to support the Government with tangible and practical initiatives to aid all New Zealanders involved in vocational education or whose lives may have be disrupted by COVID-19.
The aspirations of RoVE are both necessary and achievable, more so now than ever. Through this Budget, and the work we have been doing since RoVE was announced in August 2019, we will continue to design and build a vocational education system that is flexible and responsive, unified and collaborative, fit for the future of work, and delivering the skills that learners, employers and communities need to thrive.
RoVE updates
Work has continued across all the RoVE projects. Find out more about Workforce Development Councils (WDCs) and the Regional Skills Leadership Groups (RSLGs) in this newsletter, or follow the links below to find out more about other projects.
The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
NZQA has implemented amendments to NZQA Rules to reflect the RoVE changes.
Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs)
The Registration of Interest evaluation process for both the Primary Sector and Construction CoVEs is now complete. The evaluation panels were impressed with the calibre of submissions, and shortlisted applicants were invited to the next stage to submit their final proposal.
Unified Funding System (UFS)
With a shift to online collaboration, the UFS project team continues to work with sector representatives to create a new unified funding system that is simple, relevant and responsive to learners and employers. The project is focusing on three new funding components: the Funding Category Component, the Learner Component, and the Strategic Component.
Taumata Aronui
Taumata Aronui has already held several meetings in person and online, and is becoming a vital voice representing Māori across the vocational education sector.


text:
Are you feeling extra motivated this time of year? Perfect. Harness that energy and pour it into a staff wellness initiative at your school! This is a perfect time to engage yourself and your wellness team (if you've got one) in a new or renewed staff wellness initiative. Employees may be looking to continue the camaraderie they shared over the holidays and there's no better way to incorporate wellness than when participants are having fun in a shared experience—when it's fun, things get done.
Before you hop on the path to workplace wellness, here are some things to consider that I've learned through my own attempts at embarking on a wellness journey:
Start small
Little changes can make a big difference. If everyone picks one small thing to do for health, those small changes can lead to huge cultural shifts. In one APPLE School, all staff were asked what they could commit to try; for example, staff members wrote on a small paper what their goal was for the month of January. Some wrote, I commit to try to only drink water in front of my students; others wrote, I commit to try and walk for the whole time I am on supervision. Each person came up with a small goal and it was posted on a bulletin board in the staff room (names were optional). These small changes were the spark needed for this school to move on to their larger school community health goals.
Track your progress
Did you have a gold star chart when you were little? I would do almost anything to make sure I got all of my gold stars each week, and I have watched this translate to productivity as an adult. However you track, the key here is to make sure your goal, no matter how small, is measurable. Tracking your progress is essential to keeping your goal top of mind and keeping you moving in the right direction. If you're working on a small personal goal, I still recommend a personal sticker chart—it did wonders for my goal to take my vitamins every day last year, and frankly, stickers are fun.
Create a team
If your school is just starting the workplace wellness journey, start by asking people to participate. You'll be surprised at how important workplace wellness is to many of us. Embrace your team mates, and remember to ask (beg) colleagues with varied backgrounds to provide suggestions on what wellness challenges could work—diverse perspectives will be your friend. Be sure to focus on challenges that enable everyone to contribute and feel successful. Stay tuned to this forum thread to see your colleagues' suggestions for recruiting wellness champions.
Remember that change is hard, no matter how small it might be, and that it's important to recognize the differences you are making. Take some time to reward yourself and others for the great work you're doing. Being a role model at school is an important step to support healthy choices for students, so take some time to celebrate your staff wellness achievements on an announcement, in the staff room, through a quick visit to the classroom, or at a school assembly. Celebrating your collective efforts is key to maintaining the momentum of fun, healthy school communities.
Whatever your workplace wellness goal, I hope these experiences will help guide you on your own journey to success. Do you have any of your own tips to share with The Sandbox community on achieving your goals? Please share them below—I'd love to hear from you!


text:
Ugh, wires. They can get so messy and tangled, completely taking away from the otherwise clean experience you get with iProducts. Well, you can at least ditch the charging cable, because the iPort LaunchPort inductive charger for the iPad 2 has been announced and it's looking simplistically sweet.
Like other inductive charging solutions, you don't need a physical cable to connect to your iPad in order to top up its battery. Instead, you simply place it on the charging base and it will magnetically align, juicing up that battery with no wires attached. The iPort LaunchPort system consists of three parts.
The first is the PowerShuttle hard case for the iPad. You'll need this to replace whatever other case you may already be using, but it might be able to fit over an InvisibleShield. The case has a somewhat unsightly circular bump on the back, but that's the part that magnetically attaches to the BaseStation tabletop mounting and charging dock, as well as the WallStation wall-mounting and charging dock.
This looks pretty convenient, especially the wall mount idea. Peep the intro video below and then hang tight until Q4 for the iPort LaunchPort to hit store shelves.


text:
Bender, hurry! This fuel's expensive! Also, we're dying! No, she'll probably make me do it. Do a flip!
The Cyber House Rules
Tell her you just want to talk. It has nothing to do with mating. Would you censor the Venus de Venus just because you can see her spewers? Why would I want to know that?
Teenage Mutant Leela's Hurdles
So, how 'bout them Knicks? How much did you make me? Too much work. Let's burn it and say we dumped it in the sewer. Hey, whatcha watching? I was all of history's great robot actors – Acting Unit 0.8; Thespomat; David Duchovny!
Insane in the Mainframe
Okay, it's 500 dollars, you have no choice of carrier, the battery can't hold the charge and the reception isn't very… Who am I making this out to? Kif, I have mated with a woman. Inform the men. Tell her you just want to talk. It has nothing to do with mating. I'm a thing.
Hell Is Other Robots
Doomsday device? Ah, now the ball's in Farnsworth's court! And until then, I can never die? It's just like the story of the grasshopper and the octopus. All year long, the grasshopper kept burying acorns for winter, while the octopus mooched off his girlfriend and watched TV. But then the winter came, and the grasshopper died, and the octopus ate all his acorns. Also he got a race car. Is any of this getting through to you?