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President Mustafa Akıncı will leave Cyprus tomorrow to attend the Cyprus Conference in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. The conference begins on 28 June and is expected to last for at least 15 days.
The chapter on Security and Guarantees and the comprehensive discussion on all other issues will continue at the conference, which began in Mont Pèlerin, Geneva on 12 January. The conference was interrupted at the request of Greece for more preparation time.
It is anticipated that the results of the negotiations at the Geneva conference will guide the conference to be held in Crans-Montana.
President Mustafa Akıncı and his chief negotiator Özdil Nami are leaving the island on Tuesday afternoon. He will be accompanied by his wife, Meral, and Special Director Cenk Gürçağ.
A delegation including the President's spokesman Baris Burcu and EU Special Advisor Erhan Erçin, the President's Secretary Sertaç Güven, Political Affairs and History Advisor, Commissioner General Coordinator Meltem Onurkan Samani, Legal Affairs Advisor Sule Karabacak, Foreign Affairs Expert İpek Genç, Security Advisor Halil Sadrazam, Economy Advisor Ömer Gökçekuş, Property Committee Member Layik Mesutoğlu and technical experts will attend the conference.
The two delegations, along with political party representatives and members of the press who will be covering the conference, will leave Istanbul on Tuesday afternoon to go to Switzerland.
Also attending the negotiations will be members of the coalition government, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Serdar Denktas (DP) and Foreign Minister Tahsin Ertugruloglu (UBP).
Additionally, the leader of the main opposition Republican Turkish Party (CTP) Tufan Erhürman and shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, Armağan Candan; representing the Social Democratic Party (TDP), Chairman Cemal Özyigit and Zeki Çeler will attend the conference in Switzerland..
President Mustafa Akıncı and Greek Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades discussed the chapter on Security and Guarantees for the first time in January 2017 at the Geneva conference.
This was the first time that the Cyprus guarantors came together in many years, briefly presented the reciprocal map proposals to the conference for the first time, even though the conference was cut short due to the request for further preparation by Greek Foreign Minister Nicos Kotzias.
The conference proceedings continued at the technical level after a break in the political meetings. Negotiators Ozdil Nami and Andreas Mavroyiannis listed the relevant positions, expectations and concerns of the parties regarding Security and Guarantees at a meeting held by the technocrats representing the guarantor countries.
UN Special Advisor for Cyprus Espen Barth Eide, interviewed the parties and guarantors, while working on the negotiations in Cyprus, at certain intervals. He collated the results of the parties' positions at technical level in Mont Pèlerin and prepared a joint document for the conference.
Eide also announced that on Tuesday that he would hold a press conference at the UN in Geneva.
Kibris Postasi


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A game-changing image sensor from Sony makes conventional camera mechanisms redundant, achieving speed and performance that are beyond the capabilities of mechanical devices. What's more, freedom from mechanical noise and vibration opens up a vast new world of imaging opportunities.
α9 liberates you from the limits of conventional SLRs that rely on mechanical systems. First to use high-speed stacked design, its 24.2-megapixel full-frame image sensor temporarily stores large-volume data in the integral memory for overall 20 times faster readout speed. The combination of CMOS sensor and enhanced BIONZ X image-processing engine brings you true digital freedom.

subset: commoncrawl


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Disclosure: This is a sponsored post for Florida Prepaid through Bloggin' Mamas. All opinions are entirely my own.
I loved college. I went to Florida State University and it was the time of my life! I drank, danced, tailgated & studied abroad. I met some of my very best friends there and fell madly in love with a hot & hilarious masters student.
|Pretty sure this was taken with a disposable camera! Can you tell? Ha!
Donnie & I did everything together, including sign-up for classes. He wondered why he was taking out THOUSANDS each semester in student loans… while I was paying just $50 bucks. The answer was simple… I had the Florida Prepaid College Program. There was a small service charge for each class, so 5 classes cost me $50. That's it. It was amazing.
When my family first moved to Florida, my parents decided to sign me up for Florida Prepaid when I was young and I am still grateful for it. If I had decided not to go to a Florida school they would have been able to get back the money they put in, but I ultimately decided on FSU. I left college with a degree and not a single cent of debt from student loans. My husband accumulated a hefty tab… one that we are still paying for today!
|Fast-forward 15 years.. Still going to Florida State games, and STILL paying off my husband's student loans! (BTW: I was 8 months pregnant with Mila here!)
So when we had children, there was no question. We both know from experience how awesome the Florida Prepaid program is… so we signed our son up when he was just a baby. We will be registering our daughter soon.
|They both know all the Seminole chants. Obviously.
Florida Prepaid offers two types of savings options: Prepaid Plans and 529 savings plans. There are five different types of Prepaid Plans and they can only be purchased during open enrollment. (which usually runs from Oct.-Feb.) The Florida 529 Savings Plan can be started at anytime, and all you need to get started is $25. Even if you can't save for your child's entire college education, at least you have something saved for them. The money in a 529 can be used for a number of college-related expenses: tuition, room & board, books, graduate school and more.
|Go FSU!!
Today is 529 day and if you haven't given much thought about your children's college education, or how they will pay for it… today is the day to start! Take a few minutes and check out the Florida Prepaid website. They have tons of options and you are sure to find something that works for your family. (& your budget!)
When my kids go to FSU (because really… what other school is there?) I know they are going to have an amazing time… and no student loan debt.


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Gossip Girl Review: "The Kids Are Not All Right"Steve Marsi at .
Gossip Girl has always been unrealistic but entertaining, however, there's a thin line between that successful formula and shenanigans that seem straightforwardly ridiculous.
Personally, when the plot wasn't downright obvious - identical manila folders, come on - it felt like a bit of a bore to me, lacking the humor, sordidness and scandals we love.
To be fair, it's nice they didn't simply gloss over the issues lingering over the winter break. Everybody is battling hard and still struggling mightily for what they want.
"The Kids Are Not All Right" certainly lived up to its title.
Important, non-white Gossip Girl characters?! Awesome!
The relationship of Dair, flirtations between Chuck and Raina, reconnection of Serena and the just-freed Ben, revelation of the history between Lily and Russell Thorpe (Raina's father), and mysterious buyer(s) of Bass Industries are all intriguing.
The problem is that relatively little was revealed on each front, while the action unfolding felt forced and dull at times. I'll give Gossip Girl a pass in that stories do take time to develop and I'm excited about these, but I wasn't a huge fan last night.
Maybe it's just that the episode revolved heavily around Lily.Everyone's mad at her and for good reason. Stunningly, Serena couldn't find the judge to get Ben's conviction thrown out after her mother let him rot in the slammer.
Chuck, who seemed more like a Chuck caricature with those chicks in the limo, couldn't find Jack but thinks his father's old friend can help thwart Bart's conniving widow.
Nate is babysitting his paroled pop. Dan and Blair don't know what to make of Dan and Blair either. The first Humphrey-VDW family brunch of the year is hella awkward.
Rufus and Lily try to smooth things over with Serena, Dan and Eric, but it's not happening. Then Lily calls the judge and tells him he can come back from hiding (!?).
Chuck discovers the Bass Industries sale will be done in 24 hours and plans a major take-down of Lily at the big party thrown by Bart's old associate Russell Thorpe.
Lily admits to Chuck that the company is effed, and she HAD to broker a deal with this private bidder where she can control the sale, rather than letting it go under.
She promises Serena will see the light, too. Chuck sort of buys it. Meanwhile, Serena blows off Dan for the 378th time, and he misses his internship interview. Nice.
Chuck assumed - and Lily lied through omission - that Thorpe was the buyer. He's not, but wishes he were, so he could sell it off piece by piece. Dude hates Bart.
Can Chuck win back control of the company?
Just as Chuck and S prepare to slam L into backing off the sale, the manila folder switcheroo is revealed. Forged affidavits are blackmail worthy. Dan's resume, not so much.
But, lo and behold, the buyer is scared off by this family drama (?!) and Thorpe steps in to buy Bass Industries after all - with none other than The Captain at the financial helm!
That was an interesting twist, we'll admit. Nate's dad, who seemed content to sit around, play Wii and chase skirts all day, is shaping up to be one of the crew's adversaries.
Meanwhile, Dan misses another interview because of Serena. Blair, scheming to become the right-hand woman of Indra Nooyi, is trying to con her own mom. It doesn't work.
This story line seemed designed almost to give Ms. Waldorf something to do, rather than to lead anywhere. Come on, the Queen would be way better than this. You know she would.
The episode ends with Dan and Blair going to another movie, while Serena heads to visit Ben in jail only to discover he's been set free by the same judge. It's a little confusing.
Did Lily end up springing him after all by getting the judge to grant parole? Hard to tell, but Ben happened to be lurking outside the jail at least, so that was convenient for S.
Where do you think things are going for Dair? Will Serena and Ben forge a relationship? Will Chuck's plan to use Raina help him win back the company at last? Do you care?
What did you think of last night's Gossip Girl? Discuss!
Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.


text: BGR - While electronics vendors struggle to gain traction in the emerging media tablet market, Apple has managed to maintain a significant lead in the space despite an increasing number of rival offerings. Apple's share of the global tablet market in the third quarter was estimated to be 61.5% by market research firm IDC, and it's not just momentum keeping the company's market share high. Apple's user experience on the iPad has been touted by many as having a huge lead over rival platforms, and the majority of iPad owners seem to agree according to the results of a recent survey.


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Our state has unimaginably beautiful scenery both on and off major highways and byways. As a 4WD enthusiast getting off the beaten path to enjoy Wisconsin's serene and peaceful spots is all about the total experience.
Throughout the year WC4WD works with the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), various state & local government agencies, as well as private land owners to facilitate responsible land usage and trail conservation. As these opportunities become available to the 4WD community they will be included below.
Listed below are some of Wisconsin's 4WD Recreation opportunities. Please remember to TreadLightly and always check areas are open with the local agencies before you go.
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest's Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) are available for FREE on your smartphone or tablet through the Avenza app. Just like the black and white MVUM, the electronic maps identify the roads, trails, and areas designated for public motor vehicle use on National Forest lands. Best of all, it lets you know exactly where you are while traveling on the National Forest.
USDA Forest Service Maps are generated periodically from the USDA Forest Service data dump and offered here in an open format for easy import into a variety of devices and software. The GPX files contain the designated roads, converted into tracks, which can be displayed and colorized for planning or followed using a standalone GPS.
The Trans-Wisconsin Adventure Trail, originally designed for dual sport and adventure bikes, has plenty of opportunity for new and more experience 4WD enthusiasts. Approximately 600 miles in WI consisting of paved roads, gravel roads and dirt / sand forest roads. The route starts on the Wisconsin / Illinois border just north of Galena Illinois and ends at Lake Superior near the town of Cornucopia. It is approximately 50% pavement, 40% gravel roads and 10% dirt/sand forest roads.


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Happy Reading,
Shelly, Sam, Jocelyn, Martina, Erin, Susan, Kelly, Laura, Emily, Anisaa, and Lori Ann
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Siege of Shadows
by Sarah Raughley
Hardcover Giveaway
U.S. Only
Simon Pulse
Released 11/21/2017
There's nowhere to hide.
Not when you're an Effigy. No matter where they go, Maia and the other Effigies can't escape the eyes of the press—especially not after failing to capture Saul, whose power to control the monstrous Phantoms has left the world in a state of panic. It's been two months since Saul's disappearance, and there's still no sign of him, leaving the public to wonder whether the Sect—and the Effigies—are capable of protecting anyone.
When Saul suddenly surfaces in the middle of the Sahara desert, the Sect sends Maia and her friends out after him. But instead of Saul, they discover a dying soldier engineered with Effigy-like abilities. Even worse, there may be more soldiers like him out there, and it looks like the Effigies are their prime targets.
Yet the looming danger of Saul and this mysterious new army doesn't overshadow Maia's fear of the Sect, who ordered the death of the previous Fire Effigy, Natalya. With enemies on all sides and the world turning against them, the Effigies have to put their trust in each other—easier said than done when secrets threaten to tear them apart.
Purchase Siege of Shadows at Amazon
Purchase Siege of Shadows at IndieBound
View Siege of Shadows on Goodreads
YA BOOK GIVEAWAYS LAST WEEK: WINNERSGood and Gone by Megan Frazer Blakemore: Dawn M.
* * * *
The Temptation of Adam
by Dave Connis
Sky Pony Press
Released 11/21/2017
Adam Hawthorne is fine.
Yeah, his mother left, his older sister went with her, and his dad would rather read Nicholas Sparks novels than talk to him. And yeah, he spends his nights watching self-curated porn video playlists.
But Adam is fine.
When a family friend discovers Adam's porn addiction, he's forced to join an addiction support group: the self-proclaimed Knights of Vice. He goes because he has to, but the honesty of the Knights starts to slip past his defenses. Combine that with his sister's out-of-the-blue return and the attention of a girl he meets in an AA meeting, and all the work Adam has put into being fine begins to unravel.
Now Adam has to face the causes and effects of his addiction, before he loses his new friends, his prodigal sister, and his almost semi-sort-of girlfriend.
Author Question: What is your favorite thing about The Temptation of Adam?
I'd say its depth. This probably sounds super egotistical, like, "Oh, Dave thinks he's SOOOOO deep", but there's so much humanity to find in TOA, I know because I wrote it at a time where I was carrying the weight of my own.
Purchase The Temptation of Adam at Amazon
Purchase The Temptation of Adam at IndieBound
View The Temptation of Adam on Goodreads
* * * *
Not Now, Not Ever: A Novel
by Lily Anderson
Wednesday Books
Released 11/21/2017
The sequel to The Only Thing Worse than Me Is You, inspired by The Importance of Being Earnest.
Elliot Gabaroche is very clear on what she isn't going to do this summer.
1. She isn't going to stay home in Sacramento, where she'd have to sit through her stepmother's sixth community theater production of The Importance of Being Earnest.
2. She isn't going to mock trial camp at UCLA.
3. And she certainly isn't going to the Air Force summer program on her mother's base in Colorado Springs. As cool as it would be to live-action-role-play Ender's Game, Ellie's seen three generations of her family go through USAF boot camp up close, and she knows that it's much less Luke/Yoda/"feel the force," and much more one hundred push-ups on three days of no sleep. And that just isn't appealing, no matter how many Xenomorphs from Alien she'd be able to defeat afterwards.
What she is going to do is pack up her attitude, her favorite Octavia Butler novels, and her Jordans, and go to summer camp. Specifically, a cutthroat academic-decathlon-like competition for a full scholarship to Rayevich College, the only college with a Science Fiction Literature program. And she's going to start over as Ever Lawrence, on her own terms, without the shadow of all her family's expectations. Because why do what's expected of you when you can fight other genius nerds to the death for a shot at the dream you're sure your family will consider a complete waste of time?
This summer's going to be great.
Purchase Not Now, Not Ever: A Novel at Amazon
Purchase Not Now, Not Ever: A Novel at IndieBound
View Not Now, Not Ever: A Novel on Goodreads


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President revamps his security
Maithripala Sirisena has disbanded the Presidential Security Division following reports that it was linked to murders during the Mahinda Rajapaksa regime, and replaced the elite Sri Lankan unit with a highly-trained team of commandos.
Sirisena's move to revamp his security comes ahead of the parliamentary elections scheduled for August 17. Sirisena had continued with the same Presidential Security Division (PSD) which protected Rajapaksa during his 10-year term, including when the country was at war with separatist rebels of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
The 5,000-strong PSD's role came under the cloud following a string of investigations by the Criminal Investigation Department since Sirisena's surprise victory over Rajapaksa in January.
Two weeks later, in another second security lapse Sirisena mistakenly boarded the official vehicle of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinge after an event, the daily reported. It said the PSD personnel did not guide Sirisena to his official vehicle. (Economic Times)


text: In the wake of the social uproar following the height of the Black Lives Matter Movement , companies began taking action to call for change. Companies like Google, specifically, recognized racial bias and social equity were prevalent issues in the tech industry that needed to be solved. As of...Read More


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This high exposure e-commerce business analyst opportunity is a role that resides in IT. This BA will be responsible for the implementation of support of the ecommerce platform. This means identify, analyze and understand the e-commerce needs and requirements of the company. Since his/her work involves the intervention of numerous departments, it is important that this individual has good teamwork and leadership skills.
Main tasks
Gather, analyze and document internal and external business needs and detailed specifications
Review and map business process and recommend changes when needed.
Validate the functionalities developed with the various participants.
Update existing documentation (e.g. procedures, business processes, user guides)
Write/adapt training manuals and train future trainers as needed.
Requirement definition and documentation of business processes.
Project Management skills.
Experience with Agile project management methodology.
Have a good knowledge of development environments
Be proficient in the use of the Microsoft Office suite
Be familiar with database query tools
Analytical and organization skills, ability to see the big picture
Ability to work alone or on a team
Sense of initiative and leadership
Critically evaluate information gathered from multiple sources, reconcile conflicts, decompose high-level information into details, abstract up from low-level information to a general understanding, and distinguish user requests from the underlying true needs.
Experienced in web commerce, shopping carts, storefronts and improving user experience with eCommerce sites. Minimum 4 years eCommerce experience.
Collaborate with developers and subject matter experts to establish the technical vision and analyze tradeoffs between usability and performance needs.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with a diverse group, executives, managers, and subject matter experts.
Successfully engage in multiple initiatives simultaneously
Be the liaison between the business units, technology teams and support teams.


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Trade agreements benefit nation's producers
U.S. agriculture has a lot to gain from trade, was the central message Ambassador Darci Vetter, chief agricultural negotiator, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, had for workshop attendees at the American Farm Bureau Federation's 97th Annual Convention and IDEAg Trade Show.
Vetter's conversation with farmers and ranchers focused on the advantages of the Trans-Pacific Partnership and how its passage is essential to opening new markets for U.S. farmers.
'The TPP is an agreement that unites 12 countries in the Asia-Pacific in a comprehensive trade agreement, with 40 percent of global gross domestic production on the table,' Vetter said. 'It is one of the largest, and the highest standard, trade deals in history.'
U.S. agriculture already has deep roots in the area involved in the TTP with 42 percent of U.S. agriculture products being shipped to the area. Vetter contended that this region will only continue to grow in importance. The key to gaining a competitive foothold is to reduce or eliminate tariffs.
'This Asian-Pacific region is one of the most dynamic regions in terms of population growth, but also income growth in that population,' Vetter explained. 'By 2030, 66 percent of the world's middle class will be in Asia, and 59 percent of middle classes purchasing power will be from this region. What we want to do now is to cement that preferential trade access to those economies and become their partners of choice as they grow.'
Vetter encouraged attendees to visit ustr.gov/tpp/, where the entire TPP proposal has been posted. The website also has summaries of the proposal along with infographics on how TPP will affect individual commodities and states.


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Hilton HHonors has two separate promotions for Conrad and Waldorf-Astoria collection stays that are valid until the end of 2014.
You can access the two different promotions using the links below:
Hilton HHonors Conrad & Waldorf Astoria Promotion: 2,000 Bonus Points For Every Night Between January 23 – December 31, 2014
Hilton HHonors Conrad & Waldorf Astoria Promotion: Up To 10,000 Bonus Points For Three Stays (January 23 – December 31, 2014)
The questions that have remained are whether these work for reservations done prior the January 23, 2014 date (contrary to the terms and conditions) and that do these will post to award stays as well.
LoyaltyLobby reader from Singapore had booked the Conrad Singapore hotel for a staycation during the January sale.
Both of the promotions posted just fine + the main Weekend Rewards (access here) promotion. Although this was a paid stay, I can confirm that other reader had received them for an award stay as well.
It is great to know that these will post for reservations made before January 23, 2014, and that award stays are eligible as well. Let's hope that Hilton keeps it that way.


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Would it be smart to work with outstanding organizations, companies, and products?DK Automation whole-heartedly endorses the following organizations, companies, and products. We have personally worked with each one and have seen outstanding results!
|Imaging Science Foundation (ISF)
|Home Acoustics Alliance (HAA)
|National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI)
|Dynamic Electrical Solutions
|Wav Electronics
|Omega Audio Video


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Jessica Alba will star opposite Gabrielle Union in NBC's "Bad Boys" spinoff pilot.
Union stars in the drama from executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer, reprising her role as Syd Burnett from 2003's "Bad Boys II," now an LAPD detective.
Alba will play her partner, Nancy McKenna. Having joined the Army out of high school and spent most of the 2000s in Iraq and Afghanistan, McKenna joined the military police to get closer to the action. When the pilot picks up, she's now a detective raising two preteen stepkids with her husband.
Also Read: Jerry Bruckheimer's 'Bad Boys' TV Spinoff Starring Gabrielle Union Gets NBC Pilot Order
The as-yet untitled spinoff comes from "The Blacklist" writers-producers Brandon Margolis and Brandon Sonnier, and is created by Sony Pictures Television Studios, Jerry Bruckheimer Television, Primary Wave and 2.0 Entertainment.
Bruckheimer is an executive producer along with Alba, Jonathan Littman, KristieAnne Reed, Jeff Gaspin, Jeff Morrone, Doug Belgrad, Sonnier and Margolis.
The original "Bad Boys" buddy cop movie, released in 1995, was directed by Michael Bay, produced by Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer and starred Lawrence and Will Smith as two Miami narcotics detectives. The two returned, along with Bay for the 2003 sequel.
Alba is represented by CAA and 3Arts


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Several days ago I drove past a house in the southeast area of Mason City where there lived many years ago an elderly woman whom I had befriended years earlier. My story starts when I was somewhere in the age of perhaps 14 years. In those days, when I wanted money to purchase something, I looked for summertime work away from the daily chores at home where I could make real money. Through word of mouth with the area farmers, I was told to go and visit an elderly widow who needed someone to help her with her huge yard and garden. My mother drove me to her place and I was introduced to Nettie. Being a bit nervous about working on a strange place for a strange person, I was a bit uncomfortable seeing my mother driving back down the lane calling after me that she would be back in the late afternoon to pick me up. It didn't take long to become accustomed to my new work place.
Nettie was likely in her early 80's with a strong frame and walked with determination. Each time I went there to work, I grew more fond of her. She would work nearly as hard as I did but would also have a full farmer noon meal ready when it was time to eat. At first she didn't talk much but the more I got to know her, the more she spoke about her life. She knew I enjoyed listening to her stories of how life was back before the turn of the century when she was a young woman. She could recall in great detail events while I sat listening as we ate. I soon understood how she became the woman she was.
She was married young and was the eldest daughter of a large farm family. Her burdensome duties started at an early age. Only a hand full of years passed after her marriage and birth of her three sons, her husband died of the great influenza epidemic that ravaged Europe during WWI. A single mother with three sons to raise by herself became a daunting task. She spoke about cutting corners on provisions, growing nearly everything they ate on their small farm and also having her sons do work for other farmers when money was needed. WWII arrived and her eldest son went into the service.
Yet another tragedy occurred when she was informed that her son was killed on the battlefield. I think the death of her son was what really caused her survival instincts to kick in. Listening to her was like listening to an audio book; each chapter was the topic she picked to speak about at our next meal together. I worked for Nettie for about eight years during the summer and sometimes on Saturdays.
I helped her prepare for her farm sale, I helped her move into her charming little 2 bedroom home here in Mason City, and in the last years, I read her mail to her that she couldn't read and did the little odd jobs for her that she couldn't manage anymore. She was slowly going blind. When her son who lived in the area would arrive while I was there helping her, would tell me how stubborn his mother was and that she needed to go to a nursing home. I just listened. Not too many months later I received a call from her son telling me that his mother had passed quietly in the night. I thought to myself at the time, "Good for her." She endured more than most could every imagine. She was 95 years old when she died. Wow, what a roller coaster life and yet she never ever expressed any sort of distain for the plate full of heartaches and hardships she was served. She just did what she had to do. Now that's a woman of substance.


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ART 405 Advanced Typography, Syllabus
Advanced Typography, Art 405, F18: Syllabus
Time: Monday & Wednesday, 6-9pm
Room: VAC 136
Instructor: Kevin O'Neill
Office Hrs.: By appointment
Additional reference material, tutorials and sources are on our class website: KevinONeillArt.com
Course Description
This course builds on the fundamentals learned in the Introduction to Typography class — the communicative and expressive aspects of type. There is a continued emphasis on design history, developing hand skills and fine-tuning computer skills. A highly creative approach will be taken towards typographic form and design using a variety of media that explores both visual and verbal means of communication. Prerequisite: Art 210 Introduction to Typography
Course Goals
- explore the expressive and communicative qualities of typographic forms using a variety of approaches and media
- design type forms based on the research of typographic design history
- continue to develop software skills to style, format and design professional type
- develop hand skills to create hand-lettered forms
- explore using type in three dimensions—digitally and physically
- learn how to create and animate type
- understand the technical aspects of organizing and formatting type as part of the production process for all media
- To sharpen students' ability to design and style type for various media
- To create hand-lettered forms
- To create three dimensional typographics forms
- To apply motion graphics techniques to typographic forms
- To become aware of various approaches to communicating with typographical forms
- To recognize the use of type design history and research as a source for creative design solutions
- To produce a variety of professional pieces for the student portfolio
Learning Outcomes:
- Gain skills in hand lettering
- Gain skills in the production of printed material and digital media
- Gain advanced software skills in motion graphics
- To be able to identify proper techniques to create high quality type
- Be able to discuss design methods, techniques and solutions for type design
- Be able to apply productions skills learned to develop high quality work
- Gain the skills and terminology to discuss typographic design history both orally and in the written format.
Recommended books:
- New Ornamental Type, Decorative Lettering in the Digital Age by Steven Hell & Gail Anderson
- Typology, Type Design from the Victorian Era by Steven Heller and Louise Fili
- Vintage Type and Graphics by Steven Heller & Louise Fili
- Letterscapes, A Global Survey of Typographic Installations; Anna Saccani
- Type Rules by Ilene Strizver
- Designing Type by Karen Cheng
- Calligraphy pen holder with nibs, ink
- Pencils, micropens or rollerball, calligraphy pens
- Tracing paper
- Ruler
- Smooth papers for lettering
- White out, eraser
- sketchbook
- Cardboard, matboard, various found materials
- Flash drive, external portable hard drive, or online storage to back up work
Evaluation of your progress will be determined by your research and planning, addressing all requirements of a project, meeting deadlines, creatively solving the problem, participating in class critiques, attendance and your professionalism.
Course Requirements
1. Quality Work and Meeting Deadlines
Students must demonstrate a high level of motivation, the ability to meet deadlines and timely completion of projects. This reflects on your professionalism and is a requirement that will affect your overall grade.
Loss of data is not an acceptable excuse for incomplete or missing work. You are responsible for routinely backing up all work, data. Printing problems occur often, please print course work 24 hours before the critique.
2. Time Outside of Class
Students are required to spend time outside of class working on class assignments. It is also a requirement that students spend time outside of class looking at and reading our textbook, Graphic Design and Visual Art books, journals and magazines in the library. The time spent looking and reading about Graphic Design will be evident in the quality and sophistication of your design as well as in the level of knowledge and skill exhibited on projects.
While working outside of class is a requirement, working exclusively outside of class does not fulfill the requirement of attendance (explained below in attendance) and does not make up for class absences.
3. Research the Problem Description
- Learn as much as possible about the design subject.
- Use the dictionary – keywords can help define the objective.
- Recall related memories and experiences.
- Use your resource book (sketchbook) to record ideas and collect imagery.
- Good design strategies are developed through thorough investigations, experimentation and a natural curiosity by the designer.
4. Working Comps
Presenting working comps is required during class to provide evidence of research and working process of graphic design; evidence of research and critical decision points that lead to the final solution.The rational for drawing comps include:
- Drawing enables the knowing of a subject visually in a more complex way.
- Drawing advances what we observe and helps activate memories and associations.
- Drawing is the gateway to invention when conceiving a solution in visual terms.
- Drawing is a way to move beyond typical inexpressive headlines, graphic puns and style genres in design.
5. Attendance
There are no unexcused absences. It is the student's responsibility to get any information missed due to absences. Any of the following constitutes attendance penalties:
- Arriving up to 15 minutes late to class = 1 tardiness
- Three (3) tardy attendances = 1 absence
- Arriving more than 30 minutes late to class or failure to attend class = 1 absence
- Four (4) or more absences = Grade drops one whole level. For example if you have a final grade of an A and have 4 unexcused absences, you will receive a B. If you have 5 unexcused, it drops to a C and so on.
Course schedules and finals schedules are published prior to the beginning of the semester. There should be no other place you need to be during class time and critiques. Exemptions for absences will be made only for a documented explanation from a doctor, nurse, counselor, or a similar person of authority. If a student misses several classes because of illness, a death in the family, or other serious reasons, the student must take the responsibility to inform the Art Department.
Inclement weather
There will be no project extensions due to class cancellations because of inclement weather. All deadlines and critiques will remain when originally scheduled. If classes are cancelled on a critique day, the critique will be conducted the following class.
6. Grading Criteria Breakdown
Grading is based on:
8 Projects (80%) + Class Participation (20%)
Your grade for the class will be determined by combining your grades for the projects with a grade for class participation, which will be worth the same as two projects. Class participation includes showing up on time for classes, participating in critiques and class discussions, working while in class, showing an understanding of the material, etc. All grades will be averaged for your final grade.
Individual projects will each be worth 40 points, which will be divided by 10, to translate into a letter grade. For example, if you earn 40 points for a project, divide it by 10 to get 4.0, or an A. 30 points would equal 3.0, or a B. Points are earned according to the following criteria:
- 10 pts. Creativity – The project should be solved in a fresh, unique and engaging manner.
- 10 pts. Aesthetics – The composition, colors, images and type should be visually compelling, displaying an appropriate balance of harmony and variety.
- 10 pts. Specifications – The project should solve the problem that was presented. In graphic design, the designer is solving a specific visual problem for a client, delivering a message to a targeted audience, not just making a pretty picture. The solution should meet the technical requirements (size, color, file format, etc.) in the project brief.
- 10 pts. Presentation – Roughs of ideas should be thoroughly explored with sketches turned in on time. You should be able to explain and discuss your project proposal. Your project should progress and evolve on schedule. Final projects should be turned in complete and on time. They should be clean, free of typos, mounted cleanly, and presented professionally.
Grades are not contractual. Faculty input is given in order to cultivate critical thinking and understanding at a particular point in the design process. Only conforming to advice given by faculty does not guarantee a specific grade. In simple words, students are not guaranteed an A if they "did everything the professor told them to do."
Grade A: The objectives of the assignment are not only mastered but also treated in an original way. The completed assignment achieves an unexpected but effective approach to the subject that is appropriate, thoughtful and reveals aspects that are usually unnoticed or not discussed (The special nuances, subtitles, sensitivities, insights, knowledge and perseverance that makes a design outstanding). The completed design must illustrate that good design is based on powerful, original thinking and thoroughness. High motivation is evident, performance criteria is consistently exceeded on every aspect of the project.
Grade B: The completed assignment shows an understanding of the assignments objectives in a strong, logical manner. The design clearly demonstrates above average thought, understanding and originality. Technical problems are very few and are minor in nature. While above average and demonstrating good design sensitivity, the design still lacks qualities of excellence.
Grade C: Objectives of the assignment are clearly understood and the projects were completed on time. The work is competent but not outstanding yet fulfills the requirements of the problem description. The project may also contain technical problems that demonstrate a lack of skill/ attention. The work lacks strong visual interest, thoughtful and imaginative resolution.
Grade D: The design project did not address the objectives of the assignment. Inappropriate or irrelevant concepts are present. Clarity and understanding of the problem description along with assignment objectives are not demonstrated and/ or based on faulty logic. The design fails to come to any resolution. Technical problems may or may not be abundant.
Grade F: Lack of effort on the assignment or failure to complete the project; failing work exhibits a disregard for; or a complete lack of understanding of the assignment's objectives and instructions.
Meeting Deadlines and Late Work
Students must demonstrate a high level of motivation, the ability to meet deadlines and timely completion of projects. This reflects on your own professionalism and is a requirement of the course that will affect your overall grade. For each class day a project is late, the grade will be lowered. If you miss a critique because of an unexcused absence, your project will be lowered one grade. Loss of data is not an acceptable excuse for incomplete or missing work. You are responsible for routinely backing up all work, data. Printing problems abound, print work 24 hours before due.
Participation Requirements
You are required to spend time outside of class working on class assignments. It is also a requirement that students spend time outside of class looking at and reading Graphic Design and Visual Art books, journals and magazines in the library. You will have assigned readings. The time spent looking and reading about Graphic Design will be evident in the quality and sophistication of your design as well as in the level of knowledge and skill exhibited on projects.
*While working outside of class is a requirement, working exclusively outside of class does not fulfill the requirement of attendance (explained in attendance) and does not make up for class absences.
Attendance to University, Art Department activities and events in major area. Students are expected to attend lectures, meetings, exhibits and events both on and off campus that pertain to their major area of study. Students are expected to make the necessary arrangements in order to attend these events.
Plagiarism in Graphic Design and Original Images
Plagiarism is defined as the offering as one's own work the words, sentence structure, ideas, existing imagery, or arguments of another person without appropriate attribution by quotation, reference, or footnote. It includes quoting, paraphrasing, or summarizing the works of others without appropriate citation. No claim of ignorance about the nature of plagiarism will excuse a violation.
- Each student in this class is expected to follow Marywood's academic honesty policy. As a student in this class, you are expected to follow the policy's guidelines and report any and all known cases of academic dishonesty.
- Students are encouraged to further develop image making skills by incorporating their own photography or illustration in their work whenever possible. Digital and phone cameras are viable means to incorporate original photography..
- Rationale: Students must be creators in making imagery not finders of imagery, therefore no Google or other images created by someone else unless used for a reference. Students must have a high degree of ownership over the image.
- Clip-art and stock photography is instant art that is already designed and circumvents the creative process. It is the designer's stand-by; it is a goal of this course to gain experience and become more skillful through the experimentation and exploration of image use, not a reliance on stand-bys. Where stock photography is acceptable is if you need generic images to build illustrations or have no way of accessing a specific image.
Imagery used without permission or claimed as your own and is found not to be your work will result in an F for your project. Repeated offenses will be addressed under the Academic Policy listed below.
Core Competencies
In summary, as a result of taking this class, students should be able to:
- think critically and creatively in both the theoretical and practical aspects of life.
- comprehend the dynamic natural and historical processes that have shaped the world.
- apply the wisdom of the humanities to the examination and evaluation of contemporary issues.
- enjoy beauty, both natural and humanly created.
- read, write and speak effectively and achieve computer literacy.
- reason abstractly and mathematically.
- utilize resources essential for research, academic success and lifelong learning.
Teaching Strategies
Each class will contain a lecture pertaining to the assignment which may include historical references, contemporary design trends, software instruction, discussions, documentaries, quizzes, problem-solving strategies, and/or critiques, followed by a lab with individual hands-on instruction. In addition, we may take field trips or have guest speakers.
Students are required to present their work for both preliminary/in progress critiques and final critiques. During these critiques, students are required to meet all deadlines and present their work clearly using a professional vocabulary as well as actively participating in discussions.
Marywood Class Policy
The classroom is a formal environment dedicated to learning and students are expected to behave in a courteous and respectful manner. Therefore, faculty have the right to ask disruptive students to leave the classroom if the learning environment is being negatively impacted.
Academic Honesty
The Marywood University community functions best when its members treat one another with honesty, fairness, and trust. The entire community, students and faculty alike, recognize the necessity and accept the responsibility for academic honesty. Students must realize that deception for individual gain is an offense against the entire community. Cheating and plagiarism are behaviors destructive of the learning process and of the ethical standards expected of all students at both the graduate and undergraduate levels.
Students have a responsibility to know and adhere to the University's Academic Honesty policy. Violations of this academic honesty statement or the intent of this statement carry consequences. University procedures for investigation of alleged violations of this policy ensure that students are protected from arbitrary or capricious disciplinary action. Initial sanctions for violations of academic honesty ordinarily are determined by the course instructor. The faculty member will employ a range of sanctions, from a minimum of a failing grade for the specific coursework in which the infraction occurred to a maximum of a failing grade for the entire course. If necessary, the chairperson and/or academic dean may become involved in investigating the allegation of academic dishonesty and the determination of sanctions. The faculty member will file a report with the office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, with copy to the faculty member's department chairperson and the student's academic dean. An academic dean may also choose at any time to inform the Dean of Students of charges of academic dishonesty for adjudication in the University conduct system. Likewise, a member of the University community may submit a conduct report against a student, group of students, or student organization for alleged violations of the Academic Honesty policy to the Dean of Students, who will inform the appropriate academic dean for possible adjudication. The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will maintain a register of established cases of academic dishonesty in order to identify an individual student's pattern of violation. Two established cases of academic dishonesty will result in suspension from the University; three established cases will result in dismissal.
In a case in which the student is involved with violations of both academic and discipline policies from the same incident, the Dean of Students and the cognizant Academic Dean of the college or school in which the student is enrolled will confer regarding sanctions to assess their academic impact and to assure that a consistent message is communicated to the student.
Cheating is defined as but not limited to the following:
- having unauthorized material and/or electronic devices during an examination without the permission of the instructor;
- copying from another student or permitting copying by another student in a testing situation;
- communicating exam questions to another student;
- completing an assignment for another student, or submitting an assignment done by another student, e.g., exam, paper, laboratory or computer report;
- collaborating with another student in the production of a paper or report designated as an individual assignment;
- submitting work purchased from a commercial paper writing service;
- submitting out-of-class work for an in-class assignment;
- changing grades or falsifying records;
- stealing or attempting to steal exams or answer keys, or retaining exams without authorization;
- submitting an identical assignment to two different classes without the permission of the instructors;
- falsifying an account of data collection unless instructed to do so by the course instructor;
- creating the impression, through improper referencing, that the student has read material that was not read;
- artificially contriving material or data and submitting them as fact;
- failing to contribute fairly to group work while seeking to share in the credit;
- collaborating on assignments that were not intended to be collaborative.
Plagiarism is defined as the offering as one's own work the words, sentence structure, ideas, existing imagery, or arguments of another person without appropriate attribution by quotation, reference, or footnote. It includes quoting, paraphrasing, or summarizing the works of others without appropriate citation. No claim of ignorance about the nature of plagiarism will excuse a violation.
The student has a right to appeal sanctions resulting from academic dishonesty. A student who decides to file a formal grievance must submit the request in writing to the departmental Chair or the Dean. This is ordinarily done within thirty working days of the date an alleged incident occurred or a problem began. The necessary form is available from the Academic Dean of the college or school where the alleged problem occurred. The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs is the final recourse in the academic appeal process.
Accommodations for Students with Documented Disabilities
Marywood University complies with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 as amended by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008. Students with disabilities who need special accommodations must submit documentation of the disability to the Office of Disability Services, Learning Commons 166, in order for reasonable accommodations to be granted. The Office of Disability Services will partner with students to determine the appropriate accommodations and, in cooperation with the instructor, will work to ensure that all students have a fair opportunity to perform in this class. Students are encouraged to notify instructors and the Office of Disability Services as soon as they determine accommodations are necessary; however, documentation will be reviewed at any point in the semester upon receipt. Specific details of the disability will remain confidential between the student and the Office of Disability Services unless the student chooses to disclose or there is legitimate academic need for disclosure on a case-by-case basis. For assistance, please contact the Office of Student Disability Services, at 570.348.6211 x2335 or mailto:disabilityservices@
Health And Safety Issues
Art students are now using more and more materials that may be hazardous to their health, particularly if used for extended periods of time. The instructor will make every attempt to safeguard students, but ultimately the issue is in the hands of each individual.


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The Most Painful Places to Get a Tattoo
Bema is an avid dreamtime traveler and teacher who loves sharing her experiences and adventures for others to benefit from.
The Worst Places to Get a Tattoo
Tattooing is an ancient art, and in the recent generation of millennials, it has become the rage once again. Soon, employers won't be able (or even want) to turn away our beautiful tattooed bodies because nearly everyone will have at least one visible tattoo! (What's the fun if you can't show it off?)
You're probably here because you've spent a lot of time figuring out just which tattoo you'd like to get and now you're trying to figure out just where to get it. If it's your first tattoo, the task of picking a place can seem especially terrorizing because you haven't yet experienced the needle and definitely don't want your first time to be a bad experience.
So, as a person who received her first tattoo in one of the worst places you can get one, I feel it's my duty to inform you so you don't make the same mistake your first time.
Not only have I had tattoos done in some really painful areas (see below), but I've also spent a lot of time picking the brains of my various tattoo artists, so I feel I've got a pretty good handle on this particular topic. Please keep in mind that while you'll notice that everyone is different, the places I list below are the most sensitive areas on your body.
People react differently to pain, but suggesting that it doesn't hurt is just a macho way to pretend you didn't notice. Anyone who says getting a tattoo doesn't hurt is lying through their teeth. They all hurt. It's just a matter of tolerance, grounding, and detachment.
Here's a sneak peek of the most painful areas:
Inner Ankles
Inner Arms
Elbow Tattoos
The elbow is a particularly sensitive area, which in part is largely a result of tattooing over the lack of fat in such close proximity to bones and joints.
Though that's not the only thing to consider when it comes to pain from elbow tattoos, as any tatts that go over your elbow are also going to swipe over your not-so-funny bone (ulnar nerve), which is exceptionally painful for 9 out of 10 people.
When my artist was running lines and filling in color over my elbow during the progress of my right sleeve tattoos, it created a whole new sort of pain that I wasn't expecting. In addition to the feeling of being scratched by giant super fast cats, it also felt like there had been several super-large vaccination needles shoved down my forearm and all the way up to my pinky finger. To be honest, I'm not sure how I managed to hold still during those passes over my funny bone, though to the surprise of my artist and myself, I managed to do it without flinching once. That being said, it was not a tear-free endeavor.
Meditation can take you far in terms of being able to handle the pain, but it isn't 100% foolproof and will definitely make your eyes water regardless of whether or not you can sit through a dozen or so passes over that super-sensitive nerve that covers such a large piece of real-estate down your arm.
Inner Ankle Tattoos
This is the place that I chose for my very first tattoo. A simple black dancing devil in an area I was hoping wouldn't be too painful. Boy, did I learn my lesson!
The inner ankle doesn't have much skin and is on top of bone. Plus, you'll have to bend at all sorts of weird angles so that your tattoo artist can get the details right.
Inner Arm Tattoos
Where your inner arm bends forward (inner elbow) is a particularly sensitive area. Even though there is way more skin there than on your elbow, it has tons of nerve endings. On top of that, you'll have to get the work redone a few times because places that bend are subject to more flaking and fading than other areas.
Foot Tattoos
Your feet are a double-edged sword when it comes to tattoos. The top of your feet have tons of little bones and lots of sensitive nerve endings. On the soles, you'll not only be ticklish, but your nerve endings will light up and send chills up the rest of your body when that needle goes across them.
The bottom of your feet are also said to be pressure points for many different organs and parts of your body, so I would give it some long, hard thought before going there.
Palm Tattoos
As much as you would think this wouldn't be a bad area, it's actually one of the worst. Think about it: When you touch something hot with the palm of your hand, it hurts way more than it would on the top of your hand. The same is true of tattoos.
So take some time to really think about it before you try to push ahead with a palm tattoo. Many artists won't even risk it, as there is too much chance of you moving and it will fade a lot, meaning consistent touch-ups.
Neck Tattoos
I very much doubt there is anyone who has done a neck tattoo without lots of numbing agents or heavy intoxicants.
Your neck is a highly sensitive area. Besides the nerve endings, you'll also play hell trying to keep centered while you feel the vibration of the needle in your head, jaw, and back. A neck tattoo is often too much pain for most, even with numbing. This is often why neck tattoos take much longer to do.
You'll want to consider how much it will hurt while healing as well. You'll have to wear shirts and coats, plus you'll be laying in bed at night. This means you'll be irritating the area constantly until it heals.
Head Tattoos
I've only known one person who got a tattoo on their head, and I have only read about a handful of others. On top of having to pay extra, you'll also have to do a lot of meditation and detachment if you're going to get a tattoo on your head.
Plus, you'll have to shave until you're completely bald, then put up with the feeling of a needle being dragged across your skull. Can you do it?
Face Tattoos
Facial tattoos are becoming more and more popular as the social stigmas attached to tattoos have waned greatly over the past few generations. That doesn't mean they'll come completely judgment-free in terms of how other people will perceive you from their first impression at a distance. Though people don't care as much as they used to, which is part of why more folks feel comfortable getting a tattoo on the face.
One of the Most Painful Places
This is particularly interesting, considering one of the largest factors to consider when getting a face tattoo isn't just the socio-emotional consequences, it's the pain. Your face is exceptionally sensitive in comparison to other areas of the body because your skin is so much thinner and closer to bones. Not to mention, even without direct physical reasons for a needle running across your face to hurt, your mind also creates additional sensations of pain because the first instinctual reaction of your body is to protect your face from danger.
Some of this can be mitigated through deep meditation and tolerance, though not 100%. No matter how used to tattoos you are in other areas of your body, or even other facial tattoos, you're still going to be fighting against your body's natural urges to protect your face—including sending extra pain and fight or flight signals to your brain while you're getting tattooed, in an attempt to get you to stop.
Now while I very much doubt there are many folks out there who would consider getting a facial tattoo for their first tattoo, I know there are definitely some of you out there. So, without negating that there are plenty of folks who feel very little pain even regardless of where they get tattooed (like your face), faces are statistically one of the most painful places to get a tattoo. So consider yourself warned if you're looking for one of your first tattoos and are considering something anywhere on your face.
Spend Some Time Thinking It Over
Likewise, even for those of you who've had several dozen tattoos already, it doesn't hurt to step back and really evaluate whether or not you want to move forward with a tattoo. Even ignoring the social consequences, facial tattoos hurt a lot. I have not gotten a permanent facial tattoo, though I have had a partial water tattoo done in attempts to see if I could make it through one, and it was definitely a no go. This is something that a lot of folks don't consider when going in for a facial tattoo; many people don't make it all the way through their facial tattoos.
That means you might end up with only a partially finished tattoo on your face, which you might not ever get finished.
Room For Error
Finally, but not finitely, another thing to consider in terms of the pain of a facial tattoo is that because the anatomy of your face is such a sensitive area, it's very easy to flinch or jump when or if your tattoo artists hit an area that's especially thick with nerves. That could result in extra lines, blowouts, or other areas of the tattoo that will take additional time to repair—if they can be repaired at all.
Chest Tattoos
I'll be the first to admit that chest tattoos vary in terms of pain level. More often than not, because of how close ribs are to the skin, as well as the sensitivity of nipples and/or breasts, chest tattoos tend to be among the top-rated areas of incredible pain when getting tattooed.
Knuckle Tattoos
As you can see, getting a tattoo on the knuckles is something I have personal (and recent!) experience with. You could say it's fresh on my mind.
In this picture, you can see that there is only a relatively small area that covers one of my knuckles. There will be more decorative knotwork on the rest of my hand in a few weeks, but I can tell you that even the small amount that is there now entailed quite a pain.
During one of the three sessions it took, we used topical lidocaine to numb my hand. The other two times were without any numbing agents. I can testify that even with the lidocaine, it still hurt like hell!
The good part is that work on the hands is usually very quick. So unless you're doing the tatt yourself, you'll probably be able to grit your teeth and take it. Just make sure not to ask for any famous portraits shrunk down to fit your knuckle. That could take a while.
What Kinds of Pain Will You Feel With a Tattoo?
Most folks assume that when someone talks about the pain of a tattooed, they're only talking about the direct pain experienced while in the act of getting tattooed. Though that's not the only type of pain you're going to experience with new tattoos. There are several other types to keep in mind before letting your tattoo artist start grinding, such as:
1. Healing Pain
There's no way around it, tattoos are an injury to the skin, which means they have to heal. That healing process can sometimes be even more painful than the actual needle time itself. This healing pain can be increased by the location of your tattoo as well. Consider for a moment, that if you get a tattoo on your armpit, you're going to have an especially difficult time not irritating that tattoo all day, unless of course, you're able to do everything with your arm in the air for three to four weeks while your tattoo heals.
Additionally, tattoos in areas like the armpit, are going to be harder to heal because it's a dark moist area that is constantly sweating and being touched by clothing, other people, and other debris. That makes it more difficult to keep your new tattoo dry and in the sunlight, both things you need to properly heal your tattoo. That can definitely increase your healing pain, and can also heighten your chances of getting a tattoo infection.
2. Pain of Infected Tattoos
An infected tattoo can be excruciatingly painful, depending on how badly infected that area of skin becomes. Thankfully, tattoo infections from something the tattoo artist does are rare, as sanitation processes have improved a lot in our modern times. Though that doesn't mean you cannot get an infection after leaving your artist. Even when following all the right after-care steps to keep your tattoo clean and healthy, you're still dealing with an open wound that is susceptible to infection from multiple sources. The likelihood of getting infections can actually be increased or decreased by the location of your new tattoo.
The above example with things like armpit tattoos is a great example of increased risks of infection from the location of your tattoo, though another consideration is how hard it might be to heal from that infection. Take, for example, a tattoo on your foot. Unless you just so happen to have weeks of free time to sit around and keep your foot out of your nasty socks and shoes, and clean from other sources of irritation and infection, you're going to have a much harder time healing from the infection in general.
There are no two ways about it, infections are painful enough on their own, though the longer the infection continues, the more pain you're likely to experience. This is significantly true if your infection ends up getting worse.
3. Adverse Reactions
If you already have skin that is prone to dermatological conditions, or for any reason, your immune system isn't operating at 100%, you might experience another sort of pain: adverse reactions. Many of these are similar to the same sort of sensations and pain that would come along with infections, though often without any fever.
Regardless of any fevers though, adverse reactions from tattoos can be brutal depending on how quickly you notice the reaction and how intensely you react. This is significantly true for tattoos in more sensitive areas. A very bad rash or hives on your outer arm would be a lot easier to deal with and heal up than an adverse reaction on your cheek, knuckles or inner thigh.
This is certainly not the end of all other forms of pain that can, though don't usually and hopefully won't this time, come along with getting a tattoo. In particular, when these complications occur in areas that are already more sensitive during the tattooing process itself, you're looking at double the pain should anything else happen afterward. This very much dulls the potential rewards vs the risks for many folks, which is particularly understandable.
Most tattoos from reputable artists turn out just fine and stay that way for years to come. Though even when going to see the best of the best in terms of artists, or who follow a strict aftercare process, can unfortunately still get an infection, have slowed healing time and/or increased irritation, or who might experience and unexpected adverse reaction.
It's wise to consider these possibilities before getting any tattoo, though it's especially recommended before getting tattoos in places that are already commonly more painful or more difficult to tattoo.
A World of Hurt
There are many places on the body that are more likely to increase the inherent pain that comes with getting tattooed in general. Keeping an awareness that everyone is different and will have different levels of pain that they associate with different areas of the body, you might also find an increased sensation of pain in these areas when getting tattooed:
- Armpits
- Sternum
- Toes
- Buttocks
- Fingers
- Collar Bone
- Throat
The listed places above or this extra list below are by no means an exhaustive list of all the places that are likely to hurt worse than others when it comes to getting tattooed. Make sure to continue your research if this is your first tattoo, as the pain level of first tattoos often determines how likely a person is to get more tattoos. If you've really been dreaming of adorning your living canvas with multiple pieces of tattoo art, take the time to plan it out and smoothly go into it, so that the experience is as enjoyable as the art itself.
Healing Your New Tattoos
Healing and keeping your skin in good condition after getting tattoos is important regardless of where you get your tattoos or how much they hurt. Though when it comes to the more sensitive areas that you can get a tattoo, having a good self-care process can be even more important in terms of reducing pain and fading; especially in places like your knuckles.
My preference is for Hemp Eaze Tattoo Balms or Tattoo Goo. Both are incredibly gentle, rarely cause allergic reactions (but make sure to check the ingredients for any known allergies just to be safe!), yet they're both exceptionally great at healing your skin without messing with your new body art in the way many petroleum-based products do. They're both also fantastic for general skin health and healing and are fantastic to keep in the first aid kit too. Myself and several friends have used both to heal various areas from severe burns and abrasions. I've got both Hemp Eaze and Tattoo Goo in my car and my medicine cabinet. They're just that useful.
This content is accurate and true to the best of the author's knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.
Share your experience!
OneTwoThree on May 11, 2018:
My lower leg tattoo (side of leg) did not hurt, and I am not lying through my teeth. I went in not fretting the pain even though I knew that it would hurt like a cat scratch, but it didn't end up hurting, just felt like a tickle from a straight pin, and was actually relaxing at one point. It was a half-point on the one-to-ten pain scale (maybe up to one point close to the knee and ankle). Up next is a sleeve, so we'll see if that hurts more or not, but I can grin and bear it, use imaging techniques, or distract myself if it does. I don't have a high pain tolerance by any means (I'm a baby when it comes to pain, though I do have chronic pain conditions, but I also have a needle phobia, so maybe I'm just crazy), but I think being and staying calm about the pain expectations helps, along with the excitement of getting the tattoo and watching the process (I sat up and watched the whole thing, which was very interesting).
Scott on March 06, 2015:
I have roughly 74 tattoos from head to toe. The one on my head was the least painful in fact i fell asleep getting it. Neck burns more than it hurts. Knees , elbows and inner arm not that bad. Knuckles not painful at all. I tattooed my on feet(I'm a tattoo artist) hurts but not the worst. About to tattoo palms of hands we will see. You want to talk real PAIN try the penis hurts like H*LL try staying erect while you stick a needle in it thousands of times. And that's all I have to say about that..
michaela k on December 10, 2014:
Hey I have only two tattos one on my wrist and one behind the ear witch I didn't even feel getting that done, I now want a tattoo on my ribs saying, you left me beautiful memories, your love is still my guide, and though we can not see you, your always at my side. And I also want a persons ashes put into that and I was just woundering if anyone has ever done that would it be more painful or would it just be the same as getting a normal one on you ribs?
EGE on September 17, 2014:
My neck was my least painful tattoo. It actually didn't hurt. A bikini wax is more uncomfortable, even. Fingers were insanely painful and chest was no picnic.
If you're getting a tattoo remember to be well hydrated, well rested, and well fed to minimize discomfort! Your body is going through trauma!
Melissa on September 16, 2014:
Good read. I have to disagree with the head though, as I found mine one of the least painful out of my 20+ tattoos!
PermissionGiver (author) from Lake Stevens on July 08, 2014:
Actually, if you're up for it, I could create a new module in this hub where pics can be posted. You'd have to send them to me at email@example.com, at least until HP figures out how to do pic sharing in the comments section =)
DerekL on June 02, 2014:
Yeah being able to post pics would be cool. We are suppose to be finishing up my rib piece tomorrow. Excited to get it finished. There are so many pieces I want done just hard to decide where to start next would like to sleeve my left arm. My right arm sleeve now only goes up about 3" past my elbow so I would like to finish that off as well up to my shoulder. But honestly my next piece will be my collar bone that will go almost from shoulder to shoulder I am sure another sensitive area. If you figure out away to share pics of our ink let me know I would love to see others tats and share pics of mine.
PermissionGiver (author) from Lake Stevens on May 29, 2014:
Thank you so much for coming back and telling us about your rib tatts! I wish we could share pics through this commenting system, as it would be awesome to see the badass art that comes through from what sounds like a rather sensitive area. I know I've had plenty of friends who have gotten rib tattoos, and while they were worth it for them, they tell me they wouldn't recommend it without some serious forethought.
Do you have any plans for your next tatt after the ribs are healed up? =)
DerekL on May 27, 2014:
So the ribs for me have been the most sensitive area I have been inked to date. The bit of outlining in the rib piece went okay there were a few really tough areas to get through but made it. The good majority of the tat is shading and that's when it got rough I made it through one and a half hours for the first sitting. There is about another hour and half to two hours left. The fact of the way the shading goes and having to keep going back to do the different levels of shading over the same areas for me made it a lot more sensitive. So in my opinion anyone considering a rib piece for there first tat I think they should maybe choose a different area as it may be a tough one to sit through.
PermissionGiver (author) from Lake Stevens on May 25, 2014:
Can't wait to hear how it goes Derek! I hope you'll come back soon and let us know where the pain comparison is for you on the ribs =)
Derek L on May 20, 2014:
I have a bunch I tatts. The back and sides of my neck and even my throat. All not bad. The worst one pain wise to date would be the back of my calf. I even have my knuckles on both hands done that read PURE HELL not pun intended as even there wasn't too bad. Yes all tatts hurt to some degree. It is also best not to drink alcohol the day before or day of as this can thin your blood and lead to bleeding. Today getting my ribs tattooed so I will be able to let you know how that feels. It is a pretty big piece so I don't know if I will do it in one sitting or not it like mentioned before big tats take a lot out of you. If you are worried about how bad the tattoo will hurt where you want it you may want to reconsider whether you really want the tattoo. I never put much thought into is it gonna hurt rather is it gonna look good when it's done.
Mikey on April 20, 2014:
Pain is good sometimes & can be very therapeutic, I remember falling asleep once but also remember having laser treatment on my nipple now that hurts so freaking much I couldn't finish the 6week coarse. Still going to get more what ever....
PermissionGiver (author) from Lake Stevens on November 24, 2013:
The top of the foot is definitely a sensitive area for sure. Speaking of sensitive areas, I have a friend who recently got a tattoo that went over his nipple and it was apparently a very painful tickle of sorts, if that makes sense. When I had one done over mine, it definitely did not hurt at all. Though that may be because I'm a mama.
Any thoughts on this?
Rebecca on November 11, 2013:
I got my seventh tattoo on the entire top of my foot. The touch up on it was the worst pain ever. He had to go deeper into my skin and take twice as long. My other ones were nothing compared to that. The ribs hurt pretty bad. The foot was pretty bad though.
Leigha Dow on October 23, 2013:
I have 16 tattoos. The one on the top of my foot hurt quite a bit. I have an anklet tattoo which didn't hurt until he got to the back of the ankle, but even that only felt like a nick from a razor. I have wrist/forearm tattoos that didn't hurt at all. Back of neck tickled. Behind my ear was more aggravating than painful...the sound of the tattoo gun so close to my ear was a bit freaky. Hips, shoulder, collarbone area, lower back-a breeze. I just recently got the back of my thighs done...now THAT wasn't a walk in the park. But it looks wicked cool so it's worth the pain.
Katie on April 26, 2013:
I got the back of my neck tattooed about 4 days ago and you're pretty accurate there. I didn't have any numbing or anything and it was harsh(and it was my first tattoo, five days after I turned 18)! Now it's hard to find clothes that don't irritate it and the constant movement really irritates it. But I love the placement, and while I'm constantly panicking about if I'm caring for it wrong, I'm glad I did it!
Johnny on October 11, 2012:
I had the side of my neck tattooed with out numbing agents or intoxicants, it hurts a lot, but I was able to tolerate it. My elbow was much much worse for me pain wise.
Amari Lana on July 22, 2012:
I got one done on the back of my neck and I honestly fell asleep, the after product hurt more than the tattooing. Also got one on the inside of my forearm, it only hurt once it got towards the hair line. But yeah anything that goes over bone and were your skin isn't as thick is going to hurt, but beauty is pain.
Edmund on June 06, 2012:
I have both of my hands, wrist, rib cage, under side of my forearm, calf and chest right under my collar bone done, hands down the rib cage was the worst, it was the largest and took the most time. a lot of the pain depends on the area and the type of needle, and the artist. i'm a bleeder so my artist usually has to go back over a couple of times and i need touch ups, they all hurt but time is also a factor, the only one i didn't get done in one sitting was my rib cage, i got the serenity prayer in old english from about an inch under the nipple all the way down over my hip, 8 hours in total! nerves kick and your skin gets raw, big tats like that take a lot out of you, smaller ones go quick but mine are in sensitive spots. if your getting your first one get it in a place with muscle, like your calf or arm, they arent as bad, areas with just skin and bone are painful. the top of my hands hurt pretty bad and the healing process takes longer than other areas.
PermissionGiver (author) from Lake Stevens on May 26, 2012:
Well, I try to make my own tattoo decisions based on how it will look later instead of how much it will hurt in any particular place, as how it looks later is the reward ;)
Though i think you're on the best track if you want to keep the pain to a minimum. Instead of the rips, try your hips or the side of abdomen. Just keep in mind though, that anywhere around your lungs is going to be more of a challenge for your tattoo artist because you can't hold your breath the whole time and that movement can effect the outcome of the tattoo if they don't take their time and do it right - some artist will charge more for that. =)
sammiemarlow3818 on May 22, 2012:
I want a tattoo on my side but its my first tattoo and I am nervous that its going to hurt REALLY bad. I know nobody can tell me if it will or not because its all about pain tolerance and stuff, but I want it near my side, so mybe if its not RIGHT on my ribs, where should I get it? Like lower side, kinda where some chub is? haha. Help me.
PermissionGiver (author) from Lake Stevens on April 11, 2012:
Well said M F C Lancer. Any tattoo can be wasted if ot cared for properly afterward.
m f c lancer on April 11, 2012:
Once you have your fresh new tattoo, you need to take good care of it! From this point on, your artist is not responsible for any infection or problems you may have with your tattoo if you don't take proper care of it. It is very important that you follow guidelines. A really beautiful tattoo can turn into a disaster if the proper aftercare is not taken.
PermissionGiver (author) from Lake Stevens on April 08, 2012:
LOL @ MissLady. Not sure if that was a serious comment, but in all honesty, I've had a few friends who have gotten "rear-end" tattooes, and said it sort of tickled. In my experience with tatts, I could see that as logical, being that there is virtually no bone there, and very soft muscles.
@xxx, while I understand you're point of view on numbing agents during tattoos, and I agree that if you can't stand pain, you probably aren't a good candidate for getting a tatt. Though I differ towards you're opinion, in that using topical numbing agents can help ease a person into the tatt process. I've never heard of any numbing agents that actually take away all the pain.
The one time I used lidocain (sp?) on my knuckles, it certainly didn't take the pain fully away. Though it did help me get a feel for just how sensitive that area is, and I was able to finish the tatt without the lidocaine.
MissLady on April 07, 2012:
I got my ass tattooed and it felt amazing!
xxx on April 06, 2012:
Really? numbing stuff ? Come on guy that's cheating everyone i know that has a throat tattoo never used the stuff. Don't get a tattoo in a place if you can't deal with the pain and use a crutch.
bangingbeauty on October 27, 2011:
Great article. Kudos to you for being able to bear with the pain. Cheers!
Kathi Truscott from Canada, Windsor Ontario on September 27, 2011:
first tatoo I had was ankle. I love tattoo's
Sam Dolloff from Maine on September 08, 2011:
I have several tattoos, none in these places but I can say that the three sesions I had on my rib cage was painful! Oh my word did it hurt! My tattoo artist said it would hurt me because I dont have a lot of fat in that area. Oh well! It was worth it!
Anyone looking to get a tattoo should expect pain, I mean come on.... it is a needle (or several) driving into your skin....
Great Hub!
Mico on June 02, 2011:
It is best to take them where it is least painful. http://www.micocrane.com/
Dakota on May 22, 2011:
I have a neck tattoo and wasn't intoxicated or anything, I didn't feel a thing. I pretty much fell asleep while getting it. Do you have a neck tattoo???
tone on May 16, 2011:
Yea my 1st tattoo was on my neck a ed hardy tiger with letters and it hurt but not like I expected I got one the back of my ear which didn't hurt, arms, inner arm, ribs I actually enjoy tha pain in a way it dosnt hurt
Becca Lopez on May 11, 2011:
LOVE IT! People will eventually have to accept the tattoed beauties of the world. It's an expression just like clothes, hair style or makeup. Love the tattoo on your hand!


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Only The Best is Good Enough
KST principle is "Quality first"
Our quality management complies with the requirements of Norm DIN EN 9100. We are being certified regularly by accredited offices. Additionally, we comply and document everything in our client audits and achieve the highest quality standards. In doing so, we are able to focus our strengths on applied technologies, a highly qualified extensive product range and extremely short reaction times. Our permanent attention and compliance to the highest possible quality standards is only possible because of the know-how, and the engagement of our excellently educated, and trained and highly motivated employees. With discernment and result-oriented actions, our employees are crucially involved in reaching our goals and contribute to our success.
Extensive Certifications
Our internal Integrated Management System (IMS) – stands for – additionally to the running certifications mandated by the regulatory bodies (ISO 9001, EN9100) – for the adherence of the highest possible standards in quality, environment – as well as employment- and health protection.
You can see the certifications of our company here: KST-Certifications.


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I'm a little late reblogging this – out of town this past weekend. Book lover and indie author supporter Claire Ayres interviewed me for her feature, The Authors Bookshelf – jump over for a visit!
Welcome to The Bookshelf. Each week I feature an author or book blogger and talk about their bookshelf with them. It's a light-hearted, book focused, Q&A.
This week I have Teri Polen, I've been speaking with Teri via our blogs for a while now, and her horror novel, Sarah has received some fantastic reviews from bloggers I highly regard.
I hope you enjoy peeking into her bookshelf…
What was the first book you remember having on your bookshelf?
I know there were plenty before, but the one I still remember is Summer of Fear by Lois Duncan. It was my first 'age appropriate' horror novel – I think I was 8-years-old at the time.
What was the most recent book you added to the bookshelf?
The Wangs vs. the World by Jade Chang – I heard it's an entertaining read about a dysfunctional family, which is something everyone can identify…
View original post 599 more words


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Feeling the urge to rave on a sunday? Let DJ Stunnaz help you with that with his new mixtape. Titled "Club Eutopia Vol. 1", Stunnaz brings the club to you with a mix of EDM, Pop, and House music that will sure to get you wild and have neighbours wanting to join in the fun. Still have your glowsticks and party clothes near? Throw them on, get the flashing lights and party hard with DJ Stunnaz! Check out the mix below and share your thoughts in the comments section.
Be sure to check out my affiliate @Dre1Alliance of www.StarAllianceJamaica.com, his crazy Facebook Page and more!


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"The Code for Global Ethics represents a valuable and indispensable guide through the complexity of modern life and moral issues facing us every day. It offers a natural and far superior alternative to traditional religious moralities." --Marian Hillar, MD, PhD, professor of philosophy/religious studies, and editor-in chief and founder of the Essays in the Philosophy of Humanism.
"The principles proposed by Dr. Tremblay are dignity and equality, respect for life, tolerance and openness, sharing, anti exploitation, reason, ecology, peace, democracy and education. -This is a timely book to read." --Daniel Baril, Canadian anthropologist and author.
"Tremblay's ten principles provide us with a rational jumping-off point toward a new society no longer exploited by the power elites of church, state, and business." --Victor J. Stenger, author of the New York Times bestseller, "God: The Failed Hypothesis"
Product Description
Now distinguished economist Rodrigue Tremblay has published this code for global ethics, which further elaborates ten humanist principles designed for a world community that is growing ever closer together. In the face of the obvious challenges to international stability -- from nuclear proliferation, environmental degradation, economic turmoil, and reactionary and sometimes violent religious movements -- a code based on the "natural dignity and inherent worth of all human beings" is needed more than ever.
In separate chapters Tremblay delves into the issues surrounding these ten humanist principles: preserving individual dignity and equality, respecting life and property, tolerance, sharing, preventing domination of others, eliminating superstition, conserving the natural environment, resolving differences cooperatively without resort to violence or war, political and economic democracy, and providing for universal education. This forward-looking, optimistic, and eminently reasonable discussion of humanist ideals makes an important contribution to laying the foundations for a just and peaceable global community.


text: STA aims not only to challenge the development of its student practitioners, but also to challenge the thoughts of the general student body of the Florida State University, and the greater Tallahassee community. We hope to expand our reach through campus by presenting compelling works that our audience can relate to. By building a relationship with our local audience, the theater arts can become a vehicle of new ideas for individuals who might not have otherwise considered them.


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'59 Reunion Survey Response thru closing date 1/1/2019
Reunion Survey Response - Percentage by Company with charts
final: 2019-01-02
|Thank you to all who responded to the Survey. Of the 165 Classmate (CM) and Widow 59th Reunion attendees, 126 responded to the Survey, a 76% response rate. After the reunion (Oct 4-7, 2018), there have been three deaths of Classmates who attended the Reunion. One of these CM responded to the Survey and two CMs were unable to. The Reunion Survey statistics by Company are:
7 Companies had 100% response
Please email the Data Administrator, Pete Stout, or his technical support Elaine Stout if you have any questions about the Survey or data shown.


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This week on The Doctor Is In, RapsFan drops by as we walk through the roster at the mid point of the season and play a little game of love 'em or leave 'em. In Hot or Not we revisit the off-season acquisition of Antoine Wright. And in the internet's most popular home game, Would YOU make this deal? we explore the rumours surrounding Josh Howard's desire to come north of the border. You can click the play button below or listen directly in iTunes (17:26 min). You may also download the file (15.9MB).[audio:http://raptorsrepublic.com/audio/2010-02-10-phdsteve.mp3]
Don't forget to check me out in the Pros vs Joes tourney and vote for me.


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Mobile Screen Repair
Startup Costs: $10,000 - $50,000
Home Based: Can be operated from home.
Part Time: Can be operated part-time.
Franchises Available? No
Online Operation? No
Every year millions of window and door screens have to be repaired or replaced entirely. Starting a mobile screen repair business could put you on the road to riches. Activating a mobile screen repair service only requires a few basic tools and materials, such as a miter saw, screen rollers, various screen materials, and screen replacement parts. The business can be operated from an enclosed trailer or truck to provide shelter from inclement weather. The key requirement, in terms of marketing a mobile screen repair service, is to establish alliances with companies and individuals that require window screen repairs and replacements on a regular basis. These companies can include residential and commercial property management firms, strata corporations, government agencies, and community associations like recreation centers and schools. The profit potential for a mobile screen repair service is excellent, as there is limited competition and consumer demand is high for screen repairs and replacements. Furthermore, screening materials are very inexpensive to purchase; yet the retail selling price of window and door screen repairs and replacements is typically five to eight times as much as the material costs to produce the screens. The income that can be earned in this business venture will vary as to the total number of screen repairs. However, a well-established mobile screen repair service can generate sales in excess of $100,000 per year.
Maintenance Related Ideas
Rubbish Removal
Being a trash man may not sound glamorous, but there's plenty of money to be made hauling junk.


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Evidence of the insatiable demand can be found across the fixed-income universe. Pensions, which have been ramping up bond allocations for more than a decade after a change in regulations, now hold a record amount of longerdated Treasuries.
Bond mutual funds saw a historic inflow of money last year, with no sign of a slowdown. Even hedge funds have piled in.
The wall of cash is a boon to American taxpayers as the federal deficit swells. It's keeping Treasury yields, a benchmark for global borrowing, near all-time lows.
- Front Page
- Pure Politics
- Companies
- ET Markets
- More
- Tata On Deal Street
On The Table: A Buyout And A Merger. Tata Eyes Apple Vendor Wistron's India Unit as Air India and Vistara announce merger. Airline to become second biggest in Indian skies.Piramal-Cosmea's ₹5,231cr Bid Highest for RCap, Units
Piramal Enterprises and Cosmea Financial Holdings have made the highest combined offer, of ₹5,231 crore, for Anil Ambani-promoted Reliance Capital and its units, two people aware of the final bids for the insolvent financier told ET.Adani to Redevelop Dharavi
Adani Properties has won the rights to redevelop Asia's biggest slum Dharavi on 600 acres in Mumbai. The firm made the highest bid of ₹5,069 crore against the stipulated minimum investment of ₹1,600 crore that the lead partner of the special purpose vehicle (SPV) was expected to bring in.
Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily Market Updates & Live Business News.


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How gay is being 'gay' in city? – by Andaleeb Rizvi
As Karachi continues to resonate with sparring political parties, sanctimonious religious outfits and bloodcurdling acts of terrorism in the post-Zia Pakistan, there is only one place where those who are 'different' could really be their own selves and get some respite without being judged by all and sundry. This place is a private party for those who are attracted to their own sex, but the guests may attend by invitation only.
While most men and women from the gay community in the country are afraid to talk to even their close ones about their private lives, three brave souls were more than happy to converse with Daily Times about their feelings and activities. Imran, who is quite open about his sexual orientation among his close friends, said, "I go to a party almost every other weekend to relax and chill. It is the only opportunity for me to be myself. Otherwise, I have to pretend being straight to the extent where I start feeling like a hypocrite who is trying to act like a homophobic."
With the growing segregation in our society, it is very easy for men and women to socialise with people belonging to their own sex than with the opposite since, according to the infamous Hudood Ordinance, it is not only questionable but even punishable in certain circumstances to be discovered mingling with the opposite gender.
"I can tell my parents that I am going to a male friend's house and plan to spend the night there. I am never questioned on that. However, if I were to say I was going to a female friend's house, there would be dozens of questions about that," said Burhan who is also entirely comfortable with who he is. Unlike some parties that are strictly for homosexuals, most of them allow everyone irrespective of their sexual preference. Nevertheless, in order to protect their guests, one cannot attend these parties without an invitation. Saira, a teenager who prefers women, said people believe there are more homosexual men than women in our country, but they're wrong since gay women do not get too many opportunities as the gay men do.
Imran said, "Straight parties, especially the ones thrown by notable icons, end up mostly in brawls because the ambience of these parties is filled with jealousy and covetousness. But you will always find the environment at our parties serene." Responding to a question, he said straight men tend to come to the parties at times for the purposes of diversion or a change of atmosphere, and some even find being around men more comfortable than women. Burhan said, "People from all age groups and economic backgrounds having different sexual preferences attend these parties. Gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transsexuals, straight… everyone attends these parties."
When asked if such parties take place in posh localities of the city, he refused to give a definite answer and said, "Such activities take place in many parts of the city, but I am not going to disclose any of the locations because miscreants could harm our community if anyone of them were to find out about any of the venues."
Saira said straight men prefer to avoid homosexual men, which is why they are relatively safer; however, if these men discover about gay women gathering at a place, they would not think twice before crashing the party. When asked if she was aware of 'swinging', she said, "Of course, I am. It is very common at our parties. Sometimes, people come with their partners and 'swing' them without wrangling with anyone. Our parties are pretty peaceful as compared to parties thrown by and for 'normal' people." When asked why she could not refer to herself as 'normal', Saira sheepishly replied that our society continues to make people like her feel embarrassed about their sexuality by portraying them as evil. "At least we're better than the terrorists," she added with a grin.
It is pertinent to mention here that a little over five months ago, an international broadcasting organisation had reported about a very small gay parade in the city. However, the event was overlooked by the local media.
Source: Daily Times, 19 April 2010


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Hello. I am MapPoint newbie, first-time user as of today!
I need to create a map for NY/PA states showing 4 points of interest (address locations for specific businesses). I have done so using the push-pins feature and cropped the map and pasted it into Word to size it accordingly. I have also tried using all of the map styles to see which would best fit our needs.
Is there are way to only have the map show certain towns/cities and not show all of the highways and smaller towns, etc? Also, is there a way to have it show the county lines as well as the state lines? We will be using these maps to show various locations per business and do not want all of the extra information provided due to the over-busy look as it now appears. Also, some of the areas we will be creating these maps for are not large, perhaps 1 or 2 counties and we would like only the major cities to appear along w/ our push-pin locations.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks a bunch!


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REMIX THIS is a place where we get to showcase some of the best booty-shaking, body-rolling, hip-thrusting, shoulder-shifting remixes that have been grooving all over this week.
These are the ones that have stood out for us in some particular way, the ones that got us right in the sweet spots, the ones that make us want to play them again & again. I'd recommend clearing some space, crank up the volume and just let your body do its thing
The Kite String Tangle – Give It Time (ft. Aalias) (Luke Million Remix)
Tim Atlas – Figure A (NASAYA Remix)
Steven Cee – Somebody (Vanilla Ace Remix)
A-Trak – DJs Gotta Dance More (ft. Todd Terry) (Illyus & Barrientos Remix)