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RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Saudi officials say a rocket fired from Yemen hit a family's home in Saudi Arabia's southern border region of Najran, killing two children and wounding five other people.
The kingdom's Civil Defense force said Sunday that those killed and wounded were all members of the same family.
Saudi forces and Shiite Houthi rebels fire missiles and rockets across the border at one another on a daily basis.
Yemen is embroiled in a civil war pitting the internationally recognized government and a Saudi-led coalition against the Shiite Houthi rebels and army units loyal to a former president. The fighting has allowed al-Qaida and an Islamic State affiliate in Yemen to expand their reach, particularly in the country's south.


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Managing for Consistent ColorBy
Greenfield Belser, a Finn Partners Company
September 1, 2013
Matching colors across platforms is one of the most vexing problems for brand managers today. No technical solution exists and-here's the bad news-none is likely to emerge. The problem is simply too complex.
People see differently.
Approximately 6–8% of the male population is color blind in the red/green range. Women seem less afflicted. Moreover, elaborate color studies show that even individuals with "normal" vision see colors differently. That people see differently underscores the enormity of the color management problem. Without vision testing for all viewers, it is impossible to determine what color-its value and hue-a viewer really sees.
Printers probably have the most to lose by disappointing client expectations regarding color. To combat the problem, some printers invest in complex vision testing of employees to determine differences from a norm, just as linguists have created a linguistic map to measure pronunciation differences from the "Chicago norm." In this way, press operators are alerted to deviations from the norm in their own sight and can compensate by conferring with others on press whose vision fits the standard.
Consistency across a single "run" varies.
Anyone who has bought fabric or wallpaper knows to ask for a "memo" of the current dye lot to determine if the current stock matches stock purchased earlier. It's understood that color varies from lot to lot. The same is true for reprints. Matching the color of an earlier printing is the biggest challenge in printing. Inks can run heavy or light. But a frustrating reality for the brand manager is that color can vary substantially over a single press run! Keeping a press run "up to color" is only one ingredient in the mix that makes printing an art and not a science. If color can vary over a single press run on the same sheet under the same conditions, how can we hope to manage color across different platforms?
Color changes when the substrate changes.
The printers color standard in the U.S. is the PMS Color Matching System. There are other print color ink systems in the U.S., Japan and Europe, but none so dominant as the PMS system. Color swatches, bound into a single swatchbook, show colors on coated (glossy) and uncoated (letterhead) stock. These colors-particularly the reds-vary dramatically from coated to uncoated paper and yet the ink formula is identical! If a color is determined to be the "firm color"-that is, is the official color of the brand palette-special mixes may be required to match the color on different substrates. Introducing special mixes into a brand palette is like opening the lid on Pandora's box. Managing and tracking the mixes from different sources on different substrates discourages even the hardiest brand manager.
Paper is the most common substrate for brand communications, but hardly the only one. Cotton (for t-shirts) is a substrate. So are golf balls and plastic banners. Thread acts as a color when applied to golf caps, jerseys and tote bags. Some manufacturers will not consider special mix inks, nor make any guarantee about color. In fact, the only hope for consistent color is to designate a single individual to be "on press" in every instance to manage the final product. This is simply not practical, even in the best-run organization.
Advertising media are out of your control.
Color issues are multiplied once the print product gets out of your direct control. When it comes to color management, advertising has all the earmarks of a disaster waiting to happen. Newsprint absorbs ink like a paper towel. Only the skill of the pressman and the preparation of the film used to make the plates allow the web press to hold the ink on the surface of the sheet. Moreover, newsprint stretches as the giant rolls of paper feed into the press. With these variables, it's impossible to hold quality across an entire run. That's why the paper you buy may look perfect while the copy held by your colleague may look out of register.
Magazines typically use a higher grade sheet, but large run magazines also run on web press. This means the register and quality will still vary. But the higher grade sheet is less likely to stretch. Its surface is harder and considerably less absorbent, providing the high quality images we're used to seeing in our favorite magazines. But color control? Color preference goes to important advertisers with substantial accounts. If that's not you, then your color takes a back seat to that of the favored client.
Offset presses offer more control over print quality than web presses. Many trade association publications run on offset presses because fewer copies are distributed and the cost benefits of a Web press do not apply. You can expect better color balance, but your ad may still stand behind other advertisers or even the art director's cherished spread design. In every case, color is out of your control. You have considerably greater control over dioramas in airports and other mass transit venues, but the backlighting that illuminates your ad will also change its color. The substrate, as we've learned, also plays a role.
Desktop publishing brings control to brand managers. Really?
Desktop publishing promised organizations the opportunity to control their own material. But has that promise been kept? The greatest strides in color management technology have come from companies devoted to desktop publishing. But monitors must be calibrated daily to match one another closely. Do daily calibrations occur? No, but it is possible. Still, no matter how rigorously calibrations are monitored, desktop printers defeat these efforts. The work-horses of the industry, Hewlett Packard color printers, print true color side by side for short periods. But, as the printers chug on, color deviation widens from printer to printer. Following prescribed maintenance schedules does not cure the problem. Like a long distance race, some runners move ahead and some fall back. If it's difficult to cure color differences in the same office, it is not reasonable to expect them to be synchronized across offices. Even color within an individual office, side by side, cannot reliably be predicted. But let's go online.
Color on the World Wide Web
Enter the World Wide Web, putting the final nail in the coffin of color management. Brand managers might be able to control the calibration of color monitors in a single office but this is not the challenge of the web. The challenge of the web is every monitor in every office in the world! In other words, not only is color out of your immediate control, it will never be in your control.
The Good News
You can relax in the knowledge that your best is as good as it gets. Consistent color is not possible in any medium. Nor is consistent color possible across platforms-from medium to medium. You should still do everything you can to control the brand palette. Often, you can get close. But close is all you can demand. If others don't believe you, copy them on this report.

subset: commoncrawl


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The recent absence of blog posts is not due to lack of opportunities. The blog has been undergoing a top-to-bottom redesign. It will reappear shortly in its new format.
Meanwhile American corporations are doing their part to supply new episodes. I'll shortly resume blogging--this time regularly on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The blog address remains the same. I'll welcome comments on the new look. Stay tuned.
There is now my new Twitter--consumeristman.


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Visit Middlesex invites you get out an enjoy all of the fun activities that our local agri-tourism providers have to offer!
Whether you choose to visit simply to pick your own produce right out in the field, or whether you are looking for a little more excitement, we have plenty of options for you. Take some time to shop in on-farm bakeries and cafes, or bring the whole family along to explore corn mazes, zip lining, haunted barns or a ride on a wagon, sleigh or train!
Apple Land Station
There's something for everyone in the family at Apple Land Station. Every season brings new and enjoyable activities for the whole family! Take a ride on the train, pick your own apples, visit the Animal Barn, enjoy an Easter Egg Hunt, a Fall Corn Maze, a trip to Pumpkin Hollow, or a romp on Sand Mountain, you can even pick out your Christmas tree! They also offer a wide assortment of made from scratch baked goods including pies, cakes, and many other delectable items in their very own one of a kind bakery. You can also find gourmet and specialty items in their gift shop! You'll have a great time and take home great family memories at Apple Land Station.
A gardener's paradise and a place where if the fruit were any fresher, they'd be arrested! Famous for having the best strawberries you'll ever taste plus other fresh seasonal produce and over 3 acres of lust greenhouses. They also have an amazing sundae bar! Visit Heeman's and find out why it's been voted London's best Garden Centre and a family tradition for over 50 years.
Kustermans Berry Farm
Kustermans Family Farm provides acres of outdoor fun and incredible memories for young and old alike. Whether you come to Pick-Your-Own farm-fresh blueberries, raspberries and pumpkins, shop in our Farm Market & Bakery, specializing in the best of locally grown and produced foods and gift or spend the day in our incredible Farm Fun Yard, Kustermans is sure to make your day Berry Happy. Groups are always welcome for Birthdays, School Tours or Corporate Events.
S.A.M.Y.'s Alpaca Farm
S.A.M.Y.'s Alpaca Farm and Fibre Studio is a family owned and operated business located north of Strathroy. They've trained their alpacas to walk on leashes so that they could open the farm to the public. By doing this, they can welcome guests and share their love for these beautiful animals. Visit their website and schedule your walk today!
Tree Lane Farms
Experience a seasonal outing like no other at Tree Lane Farms, just north of London in Ilderton. Pick your own Christmas tree and visit the live reindeer on site. Enjoy a hot chocolate and marshmallow roasting by the outdoor fire. Ski the cross country trails, or warm up as you browse for that one of a kind gift inside the beautiful on farm Christmas shop.


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I felt that halo may have becoming a little stale in the last few installments. Maybe a new take by a new company can make halo awesome again
This is Microsoft, who like to shutdown successful studios (though not as bad as EA) so I wonder if the newly named 343 Studios will survive releasing Halo 4 either way.
They, like most developers (Activision excluded, *evil eyes*), only shut down studios they can't afford to sustain any longer. Halo is Microsoft's first born, their prime product, their ace in the hole. I'm sure Gates would check vending machines for loose change before shutting down 343i.
Remember Ensemble? Who (aside from Halo Wars) made a pretty good amount of money off Age of Empires/Mythology for MS? They got shut down for no practical reason. Yes, Halo Wars sucked, but their AoE/M games were doing good for the fans.
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This is something I've been wanting to post about for a long time. I have a serious weakness for horror films, and I can really watch any scary movie (even stupid Hollywood crap) and be entertained, but I have a very strict formula for the perfect horror movie:
1. Must be a ghost story. Zombies, vampires, werewolves, mummies, etc. do not scare me. Could also be something witchy or Satan-y but has to be really well-done in order to pass.
2. Ghost story must be sad (for example, the death of a child) and inspire sympathy for the ghost
3. Heavy on creepy, light on gore
4. Extra points for hidden rooms, secret doors and passageways. etc.
5. Beautiful cinematography
(More rules to come, as I think of them. I know there are more!)
This will be an on-going list. I will keep adding movies as I think of them. Here's the list so far (in order of date):
1. Faust (1926)
2. The Innocents (1961)
3. The Exorcist (1973)
4. Burnt Offerings (1976)
5. The Changeling (1980)*
6. Ghost Story (1981)
7. The Devil's Backbone (2001)
8. The Orphanage (2007)
There are more that I can't think of right now and I have to consult with Dave on some- for example, did we like Don't Look Now (1973)? All I remember is that there was a long naked love scene between Donald Sutherland and Julie Christie that I did not appreciate. I also can't remember if it was the orginal version of The Haunting (1963) or the original House on Haunted Hill (1959) that I really liked, or both.
I was going to include The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920) and Nosferatu (1922) because they are classics, but they don't really fit the criteria and don't really scare me. However, I did include Faust because the hat-tipping scene really creeps me out.
*Even though I always imagine George C. Scott as General "Buck" Turgidson no matter what he's in.
Alright, I can't do a horror movie post without a picture of Grinny McGrinnerson:


text: The last few weeks have been good ones for driftwood fans. At this time of year, the beaches in Carmel are packed with ocean smooth wood. My favorite place is at the bottom of a steep cliff where a patch of sand is the resting place for high tide deposits.


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Sept. 14 – 114 calls for service
N. 9th St. @ Macon Ave., Traffic collision, No injury
S. 9th St. @ Vine Ave., Traffic collision, With injury
1200 Main St., Theft
700 Royal Gorge Blvd., Harassment
3100 Hwy 50, Theft
1st St. @ Main St., Traffic collision, No injury
500 Main St., Traffic collision, No injury
600 Main St., Protection order violation
3100 Hwy 50, Trespass, Devon Huff, 20, of Cañon City, was arrested for 2nd Degree Burglary, Theft, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Lakin Masteller, 21, of Cañon City, was issued a summons for Theft.
1100 Royal Gorge Blvd., Assault
700 Four Mile Pkwy., Runaway


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Robin Zebaida Performing Russian Masterworks, Presented by CNConcerts – Shatin Town Hall, Cultural Activities Hall, 7:30 PM, August 2, 2015
ScriabinSonata No, 4 in F# Major, Op 30—1. Andante, 2. Prestissimo volando
Two Poems, Op 32 1. Andante Cantabile, 2. Allegro, conn eleganza, con fiducia
Sonata No. 5, Op 53
Vers la flamme, Op 72
Fantasie in b minor, Op 28
13 Preludes, Op 32
Allegro vivace in C major, No. 1
Moderato in F major, No. 7
Moderato in G major, No. 5
Lento in b minor, No. 10
Allegro in g# minor, No. 12
Three Pieces:
Barcarolle, Op 10, No. 3
Humouresque, Op 10, No. 5
Elegie, Op 3, No. 1
10 Preludes Op 23
Largo in F# minor, No. 1
Largo in G♭ major, No. 10
Maestoso in B♭ major, No. 1
There are just way too many ways to find out about a concert in Hong Kong and it's easy to miss a notice until it's too late. I only happened to see a poster for this performance as I was walking by some posters for concerts. I stopped and looked at them and when I saw the programme for this one, with the Scriabin, a composer that Wong Yuja had just performed, I thought it would be a great opportunity to hear more of this infrequently played repertoire with the even rarer chance to listen to it again so soon after having heard it before.
Robin Zebaida was delightful. He gave a very informative and entertaining concert in which not only did he play on the piano, he told us more about the composers and even read some poems of Scriabin's that related to the music he played. This is a refreshing change from the more formal, and strictly music, format most concerts follow.
His manner is very straightforward without gimmicks or histrionics. He has a serious approach when playing that is in contrast to his spoken presentation and he has a friendly demeanor which carried over to after the concert where he was very approachable.
I found little common ground between his interpretations and those of Ms Wong and anyway, they say comparisons are odious and there's no value in being odious. So I will not make any comparisons between her and him. What I will say, however, is that I felt a marked difference between his playing of Scriabin and that of Rachmaninov. I have no doubt that Zebaida is keenly interested and intrigued by Scriabin. He has studied Scriabin and knows a great deal about his work, and his writings and his life.My impression was that Zebaida very much wanted us, and himself, to 'get' Scriabin on an intellectual level. I don't have the vocabulary or even the insight to tell you what exactly the difference was but on a visceral level, I didn't feel that Zebaida felt the Scriabin works in the same way he clearly felt Rachmaninov's.
Please don't think for a moment that this means Zebaida did a poor job or failed to give an enjoyable performance of Scriabin's works but, as is generally true, performers have composers that they feel closer and more akin to than others but they aren't forced to limit their talents to only those with whom they are most comfortable. It may be that when playing those composers that present the greatest challenges, the performing artist has the greatest potential for growth. If so, the conflict of interest between the performer and the audience couldn't be greater. And just think if you had to add to that, a living composer …. But, that's not an issue here.
The Rachmaninov was especially moving and I felt he underlaid beneath the notes a passionate connection that he then extended throughout the entire work. Zebaida has a holistic approach to his playing that was very apparent. The overall work was always in mind and the parts, the phrases and inventive but short-lived melodic bursts, never seemed distracting and extraneous but were an integral part of the work. As a listener I like that but I think it's easier to write about such issues when they're missing.
I'm lucky that Hong Kong has and brings in so many artists who are great that I rarely get the chance to rip into anyone. I started this blog at the end of February 2015, at the start of the Arts Festival and it's already August, as I am writing this review and, depending whether I decide to skip any, it will be close to 40 live performance in five months and there really aren't any negative live performance reviews except perhaps one. Could I even write a negative review now? Because why would it be worth my trouble to write about a poor performance and if I did write it, why would I want it on my blog? Probably, I'll find the answers to these questions once the opportunity presents itself. Until then, I want to thank the classical music promoters in Hong Kong for giving us such continually high quality choices of great artists and excellent performances.
Zebaida playing Schumann from an earlier Hong Kong recital:
And here he plays Scriabin from a recital in a church in London, 29th November 2015 – (Alert – this is one piano that needs some tuning.)


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Roberto Wong, Paris D.F.
Roberto Wong
(Aristegui Noticias)
no copyright infringement intended
(Aristegui Noticias)
no copyright infringement intended
A map of Paris over a map of Mexico City, dream over reality. Living in imagination, walking the streets of Paris in his head, being in love and being loved in that fictitious place, with all that love carries, hope and dreams and jealousy, sex and violence, and sad memories, and love reborn, all in that imaginary place, because love cannot have place elsewhere. Ongoing game of crazy possibilities and probabilities in his imagination, over the monotonous routine of his reality. One day a thief enters the pharmacy where he's working, police come quickly and shoots the guy: the turning point for the plot and for the character.
It's Paris D.F., it will come in the bookstores next January 14 (Editorial Galaxia Gutenberg). For now, here is the author's blog:
(By the way, what's with that D.F.: it stands for Distrito Federal, it's México D.F., and connoisseurs call it DF, the same as Washingtonians call their city DC).
(Roberto Wong)
Labels: Roberto Wong


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According to this new trailer for How to Train Your Dragon, DreamWorks Animation has a proud tradition of quality filmmaking that dates all the way back to…2001. I do find it a bit amusing since it recalls Disney trailers that do the same thing except they can reach all the way back to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. However, Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and Madagascar are their three highest-grossing franchises so it makes sense that they would sell How to Train Your Dragon as the continuation of films that appeal to families and make lots and lots of money.
Unfortunately, the trailer doesn't sell the film nearly as well as the previous one and relies far too heavily on Mr. Movie Voice. You want to tell me the touching story between a Viking boy (voiced by Jay Baruchel) and his dragon? Then show me. The dragon is clearly expressive enough and when you show that relationship you have what looks like a pretty cute movie. Oh, the trailer also lets us know that the movie is in 3D if that does anything for you.
Check out the trailer along with a brief synopsis after the jump. How to Train Your Dragon hits theaters on March 26, 2010.
Thanks to /Film and its readers who found this trailer.
For those just tuning in, here's a brief synopsis:
A Viking teenager named Hiccup lives on the island of Berk, where fighting dragons is a way of life. The teen's smarts and offbeat sense of humor don't sit too well with his tribe or its chief… who just happens to be Hiccup's father. However, when Hiccup is included in Dragon Training with the other Viking teens, he sees his chance to prove he has what it takes to be a fighter. But when he encounters (and ultimately befriends) an injured dragon, his world is flipped upside down, and what started out as Hiccup's one shot to prove himself turns into an opportunity to set a new course for the future of the entire tribe.


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It's the end of Perpetual Noon as Cree introduces new LED office lighting fixture
In Perpetual Noon: Fluorescent Lighting and the Modern Office, Margaret Maile writes about lighting design in offices of the sixties:
Far from being perceived as a necessary evil, the artificial environment of the mid-century corporate office was praised and celebrated for its stability. It removed the imperfections and fluctuations of natural systems and allowed a constant controllable set of environmental conditions. Electric lighting contributed significantly to the constantly of the mid-century office environment. it was argued that when correctly designed, electric light could effectively simulate and even improve upon, the qualities of natural light.
Things have changed since then; we no longer design luminous ceilings with wall to wall fluorescents. Architects try to give people a bit of natural light. Suspended ceilings are no longer universal as designers aim for higher ceilings. And most importantly, fluorescent bulbs are being replaced by LEDs.
But it's not just a matter of changing a bulb; you can do that, but LEDs create the opportunity to design new kinds of fixtures. CREE has just introduced a new fixture for office use, the LN suspended luminaire, that takes advantage of the strengths of LEDs, being a point source instead of a big tube. They call it WaveMax technology; It aims the light into a wave guide, bouncing it along with total internal reflection until it hits the "Diamond facet optical elements" that distribute the light, 60 percent up to bounce off the ceiling, 40 percent down.
It's efficient light, with 105 lumens per watt, and high quality light, with a color rendering index of 90+ (an incandescent bulb is 100, a typical fluorescent is anywhere from 50 to 85 depending on how much you are willing to spend). But perhaps most importantly they are dimmable down to 5 percent. This is important as designers start maximizing natural light and dimming down the artificial light to save energy and improve the quality and color temperature of light so that it does not feel like perpetual noon.
It's also a smart looking design, with the wave-guiding wings cantilevering off a cast central beam that encloses the bulb, and snaps neatly into the next fixture. Combined with their wireless controls, Cree claims it will let users "experience intelligent light at an affordable price, creating a customizable lighting environment that can save more than 70 percent in energy costs over outdated linear fluorescent lighting."
It's easy just to pop an LED tube into a fluorescent fixture, just like people are doing everywhere with LED bulbs into fixtures designed for incandescent bulbs. But LEDs are a different kind of light. Now we are beginning to see what they can do when the fixtures are actually designed for them. it is an important trend.


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It's that time of the year again. One would think that the holiday season is a time of peace, tolerance, and love, but year after year, Black Friday proves us all wrong. People go crazy because of the shopping discounts and special offers in numerous stores. They run around, chasing products they never thought they needed, led simply by some basic, animal instincts. You basically need a Black Friday survival guide. Well, let's make this year a bit different. Let's spend this Black Friday in a true holiday manner, decently and with other people in mind. Let us show each other that we're capable of behaving like normal human beings.
Black Friday Craze Compilation
While you may see this video as a warning telling you what not to do this Friday, its main purpose is to make you laugh. What is the point of life if we can't laugh at ourselves from time to time? This is an updated compilation of some of the greatest fails during this chaotic day of the year. Do you recognize yourself in some of these clips? We hope you managed to survive. Enjoy!
The image taken from OnlineFails


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Starting with serious breakfast options and running until late, our food is scratch-cooked, uses carefully-sourced ingredients and can be virtuous or indulgent, depending on your mood.
We may have made 100 coffees, or pulled 100 pints on a given day, but only that one will be yours. We start at the bottom and source great stuff, be it beans, beers or bitters, so every drink is delightful - from coffee to nightcap.


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Family killings teach us to be more vigilant
It's difficult to be totally certain about what occurred in the Rice-area home of five that was shattered with multiple murders last week.
As news broke this week about what happened, the level of horror escalated several times over at the realization that law enforcement officials strongly believe that it was indeed a wife and mother of three who killed her husband and three boys.
Click here to sign up for our E-Edition and read the rest of the story!


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KWTX/Waco-Killeen, TX Tunes Into Tino Cochino Radio
May 16, 2018 at 3:42 AM (PT)
YEA Networks has added iHEARTMEDIA Top 40 KWTX/WACO-KILLEEN, TX as its latest affiliate of TINO COCHINO RADIO, airing the show from 7-11p. That raises its total to 25 stations in markets such as COLORADO SPRINGS, CO; PHOENIX; PORTLAND, OR; SAN ANTONIO; and ALBUQUERQUE, NM -- in over half of the 25 largest Hispanic markets in the U.S.
"We're very excited to welcome KWTX and iHEARTMEDIA/WACO to the TINO family," YEA NETWORKS Pres./CEO GEORGE LAUGHLIN said. "We're thrilled that radio has responded so quickly and that TINO is now in over 50% of the 25 largest Hispanic markets in the U.S."
"Looking forward to bringing such an entertaining and interactive show to our family of listeners in CENTRAL TEXAS!" KWTX PD CARTER said. "Can't wait to see huge numbers at night!"
"Move over CHIP & JOANNA, TCR is taking over WACO radio and giving it a FIXER-UPPER! LOL!" TINO COCHINO said. "We're extremely excited to partner with iHEARTMEDIA and KWTX in bring our TCR brand to yet another amazing TEXAS city."
For more information about TINO COCHINO RADIO, contact YEA NETWORKS Dir./Affiliate Sales and Content SCOTT KERR at email@example.com or at (843) 270-2836.


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Top South Yorks law firm gives sporting chance to future Olympic hopefuls
LEADING South Yorkshire solicitors Wosskow Brown, who run a special scheme to help fund athletes and teams, are giving a sporting boost to UK sportsmen and women in the run up to the Olympic Games in London.
The firm, based in Attercliffe, Sheffield, which has over 150 years' of legal experience, has a long tradition of supporting sport in the region.
In a new move, it is now aiming to back 50 regional sporting ambassadors by the start of the London 2012 games.
The Sheffield legal firm's sports discount scheme allows for up to 25% of fees to be donated to a sporting team, athlete or club, at a local level.
It is hoped the move will help boost propects for both individual atheletes and clubs throughout Yorkshire and beyond.
'We believe in developing sports at a grassroots level because this is where our best UK athletes are created,' explains Ian Brown, managing partner and founder of the sports discount scheme.
'So in a push to improve competition for sporting communities, not only in Sheffield and South Yorkshire, but UK-wide, we're donating up to 25% of our legal fees back to individual clubs or athletes.
'The donation can go towards improving facilities, promoting more competition or even to upgrade equipment. We're hoping to pass the 50 club milestone by the start of the London 2012 games.'
One of the city's emerging talents in speedway, professional rider for the Sheffield Tigers, Ashley Birks is just one of Wosskow Brown's Ambassadors already benefitting from this sports discount scheme.
He says:
'Sponsorship to me is everything,' says Ashley. 'To have guys like Wosskow Brown backing me is an awesome feeling. To be able to be out on the track and to know that if I have any issues they will help me, is amazing.'
As well as Ashley Birks, current Ambassadors in this community-focused scheme include Sheffield Cycle Speedway Club, Hallamshire Cricket Club and Mosborough RUFC.
For more information about the scheme, visit http://www.wosskowbrown.co.uk
Notes to editors:
Video footage of Ashley Birks talking about his sport and the scheme can be viewed and/or embedded online via the following link:
Basic Requirements of the scheme: Candidates must be a UK registered CASC (Community Amateur Sports Club) or for individuals, registered with an official body within the UK
Anyone wishing to apply for support can call WB on 0114 2561560


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(some links on this page may take you away from this site)
For a summary guide of the products available in this category click on > Catalog- IR Illuminators


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From our Advocacy Committee:
Bill to combat human trafficking, focusing on online child escort ads, passes House
OLYMPIA — Today, the House of Representatives passed a bipartisan anti-trafficking bill to keep minors from being exploited through online ads for escort services such as Backpage.com. Having already passed the Senate, the bill now goes to the governor for her signature.
Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Welles, D—Seattle, prime sponsor of Senate Bill 6251, said, "I am ecstatic the anti-trafficking legislation passed with unanimous support today out of the House of Representatives. This makes the strongest possible statement that there should be no selling of minors online – or anywhere! I worked with the Attorney General's Office, Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn, Seattle Councilmember Tim Burgess, King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg, Port of Seattle Commission President Gael Tarleton, former Rep. Velma Veloria, the ACLU, Allied Daily Newspapers and others to ensure this bill passes constitutional muster as well as the federal Communications Decency Act. If the bill is signed into law, it will be the first one of its kind in the country."
"Human trafficking is a billion-dollar industry that often takes advantage of the most vulnerable members of our society – our children, and even those with developmental disabilities," said Sen. Jerome Delvin, R-Richland, who sponsored another bill to make it a class B felony to force a developmentally-disabled person into prostitution. "We've accomplished a lot, but there is still a lot of work to be done. We must do everything in our power to raise awareness of these crimes, give our judicial system more authority to punish the perpetrators, and provide help for the victims."
Backpage.com, whose parent company is The Village Voice, makes at least $22 million a year from online adult escort ads, but refuses to verify the ages of those who place the ads or are depicted in them, even though its print edition published in the Seattle Weekly requires in person age verification. This results in minors being sold online into prostitution and sex-trafficking. All state attorneys general called on Backpage.com to stop selling online adult escort ads.
Kohl-Welles' bill would create a new offense, making it illegal to knowingly sell an escort ad that involves a minor. To avoid possible criminal charges, classified advertising companies would be motivated to try to verify ages of escorts in sex-related postings. The bill offers an affirmative defense in prosecution of advertising commercial sexual abuse of a minor if documentation is provided of the advertisers having obtained in-person age verification.
"This is great progress in our fight to protect children from those who would sexually exploit them," said McGinn. "It is an honor to work with those who have championed this cause. I thank the House and the Senate for their leadership in this fight, particularly Sen. Kohl-Welles. I look forward to the governor's signature and this bill becoming law in our state."
"Washington was the first state to criminalize human trafficking and today our Legislature took another giant step by making advertisers accountable for their role in the exploitation of children," said Burgess. "The unanimous bipartisan support for this legislation signals that we are united in our efforts to stop the horrific violence against children through coercive prostitution."
"This legislation recognizes that the sale of children for commercial sexual abuse either online or in print is unacceptable. The Legislature has once again moved the ball forward in the fight against human trafficking," said Satterberg.
"This is another step forward in our fight to protect the most vulnerable citizens," said Tarleton. "When we work together, we have the power to stop trafficking."
"This is great news! With the first amendment rights concerns addressed, this bill will be a great tool for those of us in the anti-trafficking arena to help women and girls who are victims of human trafficking," said Veloria, who pioneered the Legislature's anti-trafficking efforts back in 2002.
# # #
For more information:
Alison Dempsey-Hall, Senate Democratic Communications, 360-786-7887


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Hailed by the Georgia Straight as "ambitious in its scope" and an event where "musical excellence is assured," the Blueridge Chamber Music Festival offers innovative programming, dazzling artists, and unforgettable performances in an idyllic summer setting. Now entering its 8th season, Blueridge presents a characteristic blend of beloved chamber music classics and intriguing new music. The North Shore News calls it "not what people usually expect from a chamber music festival!".
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Most of us wouldn't even have heard of this man until this week, but in a few short days he's managed to create quite a storm with his illiberal, irrational and highly judgmental pronouncements on equal marriage and homosexuality more generally. The appointment of someone who frankly makes Cardinal Keith O'Brien look like a bit of a pussycat has to be bad news for Scotland and the Catholic Church - something picked up on by James Kirkup in the Daily Telegraph who speculates that Tartaglia is a "saboteur", bent on "a work of destruction...to harm the institution he has pretended to love." Of course, that can't be entirely true because it would require a level of sophistication unknown to Tartaglia, but the point is well made. This reflects very badly on the Catholic Church and, it must be said, Christians of other denominations.
Those of us in the LGBT community, and many like-minded liberals, will know that Tartaglia has been given more media attention in the last few months than he merits and has generally used such opportunities to express his opposition to marriage equality in no uncertain terms, labeling it "cultural vandalism" and "unnecessary". We simply saw him as yet another reactionary Catholic bishop, of which there seem to be quite a few. He didn't seem particularly exceptional.
What has come to light in the last few days, however, has been particularly poisonous - demonstrating ignorance, arrogance and blatant prejudice that is unbefitting of any leader - even one within an institution famed for its intolerance. By some quirk of fate, with delicious irony, his "message" coincided with the Scottish government finally announcing it would legislate for marriage equality and his misinformed intervention went some way to underlining the need for action.
It's one thing for some church leaders to disagree and hold to a different view; something on which I've made my personal views clear elsewhere. I might not share their perspectives, but I understand where they're coming from and why they think as they do. When Philip Tartaglia makes unfounded claims linking homosexuality with physical and mental ill-health and compounds it with an erroneous interpretation of the medical reasons behind the death of an MP, I think an apology is in order. Not simply to the MP's partner and family, but to the church and wider Scottish society - and the LGBT community particularly.
The MP in question was David Cairns, the former MP for Inverclyde. He was my MP. I knew him. He helped me on some local issues, worked with me to challenge then health minister Andy Kerr on a particular matter and was a thoroughly decent human being. We had our differences - notably on electoral reform - but there was also a fair bit we had in common. I knew he was gay and admired his intellectual honesty in developing a broadly liberal approach towards "moral issues" (as witnessed by his voting record) that many in his church struggled with. As a former Catholic priest and chair of the Socialist Christian Movement, I found his Christian testimony to be a positive one of tolerance and acceptance. In short, he was a decent local MP, an honest politician who was willing to (and did) resign his post as a minister, someone who was determined to serve his constituents effectively and a rare human face of Catholic faith in action. He was someone I wish I'd known so much better and on a more personal level; something that may have happened if he hadn't tragically been taken from us at the age of 44.
Little more than a year after David's passing, Philip Tartaglia (I won't call him Archbishop, as he plainly doesn't deserve that title) decided to make some unwise moral points about David's death, through which he makes wild and judgmental inferences about the lifestyle of someone he clearly didn't know as well as he claims. What he actually said was this: "If what I have heard is true about the relationship between the physical and mental health of gay men, if it is true, then society is being very quiet about it. Recently in Scotland there was a gay Catholic MP who died at the age of 44 or so, and nobody said anything, and why his body should just shut down at that age? Obviously he could have had a disease that would have killed anybody. But you seem to hear so many stories about this kind of thing, but society won't address it."
That is a very loaded statement and one which suggests something that is patently untrue. David Cairns actually died of acute pancreatitis, something that is tragically often undetected and affects many young people. To claim that his death is in some way connected to his sexual identity and lifestyle is a grotesque lie, and a deeply hurtful one at that. It is little surprise that David's partner has been offended by this outburst, stating that "I can't believe that someone who claims to be a man of God and is seeking to give moral leadership should speak from such a position of ignorance. I don't care what his views on gay marriage are, but to bring in my dead partner to justify those views is wrong." Indeed.
Tartaglia seems to have had a unifying effect on local people in Inverclyde - including may Roman Catholics who respected David as a member of their community and as their MP. Politicians of various parties have expressed their disgust at Tartaglia's ignorance, none more eloquently than Labour's Tom Harris who mused that "the bishop is entirely ignorant of David's life and death. It is a great pity that someone in such authority is coming out with such ill-informed tripe. David's friends and family have been through an awful lot in the last year and it is a great pity that the bishop adds to their distress for no other reason than his own ignorance...I was privileged to be one of David's closest friends. His friends and family have spent the last year trying to come to terms with the tragic loss from complications arising from acute pancreatitis. [The] public assertion that David's illness might be in some way connected to his sexuality and lifestyle was not only unsupported by evidence, but was, I fear, unworthy of [Tartaglia's] position as a leader in the Church."
It's not too often that I find myself agreeing with Tom Harris but on this occasion I do. Entirely. Tartaglia should resign. He has, to date, claimed that his comments were taken out of context and were made in relation to an unexpected question at a public meeting. "In his reply he mentioned a situation he had been closely involved in, namely the funeral arrangements for the late David Cairns" said a spokesman. Well, we've all seen the reply and that defense of it is wholly inadequate. There is no mention of a funeral, only a darkening of a dead man's reputation. He also claimed to be "sorry for any hurt that has resulted" but this falls far short of a full apology. He doesn't recognise his own cruelty.
I am offended not only by the unwarranted attacks on David Cairns but also the broader assault, and the ignorance shown towards, the wider LGBT community. To suggest in a public forum that mental ill-health is directly attributable to homosexuality is as offensive as it is wrong. Speaking as someone who has worked in adult mental health for many years, where there are parallels between mental ill-health and sexuality, these are usually in relation to complex identity issues and where individuals feel oppressed or stigmatised because of who they are. If Tartaglia genuinely wishes to improve the mental well-being of LGBT people, he could perhaps start by changing his, and his church's, approach towards them? I know of many more people experiencing mental ill-health whose problems are directly attributable to the Catholic Church; maybe Tartaglia would like to comment on that?
I can only wonder what an honest, hard-working, person-focused, empathetic, tolerant and accepting Roman Catholic like David Cairns would make of Tartaglia's misinformed bigotry? How could such a positive example of practical Christianity be actively blackened by the contempt and intolerance of a bishop too keen to express a view before actually acquainting himself with the facts? Tartaglia represents everything that David Cairns was not, and everything David openly challenged when he encountered it. I don't wish to put words into the mouth of someone who is no longer here and who I only knew on a professional level, but I'd guess he'd oppose such bigotry with a "not in my name" attitude. I'd take a guess that if Tartaglia had made similar remarks about someone else while David was alive, David would have been the first to criticise his bigotry and challenge it head-on. Certainly, Tartaglia should not speak for the Catholic Church and he definitely doesn't speak for David's former constituents - of all religious persuasions and of none.


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Real Estate Property Taxesby Brianna - March 26th, 2017.
Filed under: News.
The property tax is that tax attributable to a property that is located within the territory of state property and therefore should be charged directly to the owner or owners thereof; this tax may be accepted to various laws and statutes that make same kind of rigorous legal and it's very important to mention that property tax cancellation must be done promptly and satisfactorily, if that is so, the owner of the property would fall into such crimes as tax evasion among other important positions. Read more here: Expert on growth strategy. The agent responsible for conducting the respective calculations and property tax collections by the municipality or local land office of each of the cities which develops other important activities such as legislating the legality of the property and provide the owners of these the peace and safe from the tax bills. The property tax collection is done by some specific features, which are responsible for ensuring that the owner of each of the properties actually being paid at it has. Among these features are some such as: The basis of property tax collection is done by many meters having the property. The value of the property and modifications made to it are an essential part for calculating the tax. The assessed valuation for commercial or contribute to improve the analysis of property taxes.
The zone and status are other important aspects are taken into account when making the calculation of property taxes. Although there are few other features needed to collect real estate taxes, the earlier these are possibly the most taken into account in this process. At present the collection of property taxes can not only be based on the features mentioned above, but in other very important as the type of the property appraised, then the recovery for urban and rural properties is done differently, because in rural goods takes into account aspects such as production or commercial trade which is good and for equally issues such as whether it is luxury or shelter; can vary the amount of tax concept radically urban real estate. A very important fact to note when talking about property taxes are high rates of evasion and failure to submit VAT registered for studies in various countries, especially Latin Americans, this occurred in countries like Argentina and Chile that have the highest percentages over others such as Spain and France that are listed as one of the most social laws at the time of legal contributions. It is noteworthy that tax evasion apart from bringing legal problems it can mean damage to various scales such as education, health and housing, and whether social investment, since many of those taxes are allocated to this objective.


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Lakeview Corrective Action Plan released
by Joyce El Kouarti
March 05, 2015
FFINGHAM — The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released Lakeview NeuroRehabilitation Center's Plan of Corrective Action earlier this week.
Last fall, Lakeview was the subject of a Disability Rights Center report alleging numerous incidents of abuse, mistreatment, and neglect. New Hampshire Governor Maggie Hassan ordered the DHHS to investigate the allegations and follow up with its own report. As a result, Lakeview was prohibited from accepting new patients until the facility developed and put into place a corrective action plan.
The Plan of Corrective Action included a cover letter, signed by both Lakeview Chairman and CEO Chris Slover and President and COO Dr. Tina Trudel. The letter stated that, " we take the findings of the December 9, 2014 licensing report very seriously. We know that as an organization we must change our culture and transform the operations and clinical services of Lakeview."
The Corrective Action Plan described initiatives to improve staff quality and quantity through leadership changes, more proactive training, and greater overall organizational accountability. The organization has already hired a new Director of Quality Assurance/Performance Improvement (QAPI) to establish performance indicators and communicate lessons learned to direct care staff.
Improved staff availability and training
Understaffing and insufficient staff training were two key concerns highlighted in the investigation. Lakeview has documented its plans to ensure that the number of clients admitted and the level of attention required by each does not exceed the facility's capability and resources. The organization has also begun scheduling extra direct care staff beyond mandated levels to prevent staff "call outs" from leading to unsafe situations for patients. In addition, Lakeview will provide the DHHS with weekly staffing reports that include the names of scheduled staff and details regarding any staffing shortages.
Lakeview also increased the starting salary for its rehabilitation specialists and education aides from $10.00 an hour to $10.50 an hour.
In addition, Lakeview hired Durante Advantage Training to train staff. The training will include appropriate crisis management practices, such as when the use of physical intervention is appropriate, steps to take in the event of a patient's unauthorized absence, and how to handle patient injuries requiring more than basic first-aid.
Lakeview has also contracted the services of a third-party monitor, Fedcap Rehabilitative Services, Inc., to assist with ongoing systems improvements, serve as a consultant, and monitor the organization's improvement efforts. Last month Fedcap began working with Lakeview's new Director of QAPI to design a comprehensive quality improvement strategy for the organization. Fedcap will provide feedback to all relevant parties, including the DHHS.
Better documentation and accountability
Lakeview will also require staff to electronically document every critical incident and will provide a root cause analysis to the DHHS within seven calendar days of any Level III or IV incident report. The reports will indicate how the cause of and/or response to the incident relates to staffing, training, supervision, and quality assessment review.
In addition, any allegations of client abuse or neglect must be reported to the Health Facility Licensing Unit within one day, followed by a complete description of specific actions taken regarding the abuse or neglect allegation within five calendar days.
Fedcap will continue to serve as Third Party Independent Monitor (TPIM) until Lakeview achieves full compliance and implementation of the Plan of Correction.
"Not good enough"
The Disability Rights Center does not believe that the proposed plan of corrections goes far enough to resolve Lakeview's difficulties. According to the organization's Executive Director Richard Cohen, Lakeview's problems have been going on for several years with few signs of improvement.
"These are not new issues. This has been a continuing pattern;" said Cohen.
The Disability Rights Center had initially called for the state to shut down Lakeview. Instead, the DHHS prohibited Lakeview from accepting new patients until its problems were resolved.
"A general hospital wouldn't be allowed to operate under these conditions," Cohen said. "Given their track record, I don't think it makes sense to allow them to continue to operate."
Cohen expressed several concerns with the Correction Plan, starting with the increased staff salaries. He pointed out that the market range for direct support staff is between $11.60 and $25 per hour, a far cry from Lakeview's recent upgrade to $10.50.
"This salary increase doesn't even come close to that," he said.
In addition, he stated that the Corrections Report offers no real plan for improving the quality of the clinical supervisory staff.
"We continue to wonder why the state allows this facility to remain open," said Cohen. "The facility doesn't have the capacity to meet its current needs. This plan could take months, if not years, to bring it up to speed."
The State is awaiting an independent report from an outside agency before making any further decisions.
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New York taxi drivers win big, finally, with a fare hike and limits on agent fees
An alliance representing taxi drivers won a series of victories, some unexpected, in its ongoing battle for better working conditions.
In the Taxi and Limousine Commission vote, drivers got a 17 percent fare increase, which was widely expected, and tighter regulation of a major industry sector, which was not.
Story Continued Below
Starting in September, the average fare for a three-mile trip will rise from around $13 to $14. And the flat rate from JFK to Manhattan will rise from $45 to $52.
Taxi drivers wanted more than that. And, somewhat surprisingly, they got it.
"We not only need the fares to go up and a health and disability fund," said Bhairavi Desai, the head of the New York Taxi Workers Alliance, the closest thing the city's 50,000 taxi drivers, as independent contractors, have to a union, at a Wednesday afternoon rally. "But we also need them to vote yes on eliminating the 5 percent credit card fee and on stopping the rampant overcharges that have gone on far too long in this industry on the lease amount that the drivers pay to the companies."
There was never much doubt about the need for a fare hike, or the need for a health and disability fund—to be derived from a six-cent surcharge per taxi trip—or that they would pass when the Taxi and Limousine Commission board voted on Thursday.
One Times writer recently described the industry's practices as "feudal," while another said it is, "as politically connected and oligarchical a regulated industry as you'll find in the city."
The Alliance says drivers average between $85 and $130 in take-home pay for every 12-hour shift, while New York City's taxi and limousine commissioner, David Yassky, puts the average at $130.
"On some shifts they're averaging below minimum wage," said Desai. "On all shifts, they're averaging below a living wage."
"It's a hard life," said Mohan Singh, a 57-year-old driver with a family, no health insurance and back pain. "It's a hard life."
The plan that was approved today hewed closely to the one initially proposed by the Bloomberg administration.
First, the city sought the replacement of the five-percent credit-card transaction fee, which was deducted from the take-home pay of taxi drivers, with a flat $9 fee, also to be paid by the driver.
Today the commission voted for a $10 flat fee instead.
The Alliance was never particularly enamored of the size of the proposed flat number, but on Wednesday Desai said that at the very least, it would reduce the fluctuation in drivers' incomes.
"We're still willing to live with it because we see this as way to get out of the grip of the 5 percent," she said.
From the city's standpoint, the idea to remove the incentive drivers now have to claim their credit-card readers are broken and make their passengers pay cash.
Secondly, drivers sought tighter regulation of their transactions with leasing agents.
As the industry now stands, 40 percent of New York city taxi medallions are managed by agents, who pay medallion owners a stipend for the privilege of leasing out those medallions to drivers.
Until today, the city forbade leasing agents from charging drivers more than $800 per week for so-called DOV (driver owned vehicle) medallions.
But in reality, drivers operating in that system have paid much more.
Agents routinely lease them not only medallions, but also vehicles, in a lease-to-own model that the Alliance and city describe as usurious, and that the agents describe as fair, given the drivers' lack of credit histories.
"It's a $30,000 car, but just your car payments alone are $60,000," said Desai.
Agents also tack on lots of fees, say $100 a week for hiring a secondary driver, $150 a week for maintenance contracts, maybe $26 a week for vague sounding "vehicle expenses."
Once all the ancillary fees are tacked on, the total cost for the drivers comes to closer to $1,400, according to Yassky.
By contrast, the big taxi fleets, which generally run their own medallions, are governed by a separate, higher lease cap, one that takes into account both the lease of the medallion and the lease of the vehicle, and the fact that the garages are one-stop shops that service vehicles, employ mechanics and dispatchers, and are open 24 hours a day.
The fleet's operations are heavily regulated. The agents' are not.
The city and alliance sought to protect drivers from the whims of agents and ever escalating costs by basically formalizing the existing cost structure.
"I would rather have a clear set of rules that people can be held to than a system that exists outside the rules," said Yassky, on Wednesday. "That way, people know what's fair and what's not fair."
David Pollack, the executive director of the Committee for Taxi Safety, a group that represents such agents, countered that the new lease cap would kill the businesses of agents like Basil Messados, the Queens Medallion Leasing owner who's switching to a fleet model, by putting them at a competitive disadvantage with big garages that can charge more.
But Desai says that, "If the TLC doesn't regulate [the drivers' fees], those numbers will keep going up higher and higher."
In a phone interview Wednesday evening, Yassky said he was not particularly optimistic the rules would pass, saying, "It means we're going to have to undertake a huge enforcment effort against the DOV agents that are operating outside the rules."
Pollack, meanwhile, described himself as "cautiously optimistic" that the proposal would fail.
As it turned out, it succeeded.
Today, the commission passed a version of those lease caps, according to TLC spokesman Allan Fromberg: Agents will be able to charge $1,114 for medallions, and $1,347 for the whole package.
Desai and Yassky could not be immediately reached for comment.
Pollack answered his phone, but would only say, "It's not a good time right now."


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The Lord is kind and full of compassion, slow to anger, abounding in love. How good is the Lord to all, compassionate to all His creatures.
Psalm 145:8-9
Help us, Lord, to grow in likeness to You.
God appeals to us in His mercy to avoid having to punish us in His severity.
St. Peter Chrysologus


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Digital Footprints, Digital Tattoos, Digital Citizenship: The Digital Dilemmas Teachers Face
Katrina Stevens, Sharon Plante, Susan M. Bearden
School districts, parents and teachers are becoming increasingly aware of the myriad of issues that Internet access introduces into school settings. This week we discuss the digital challenges teachers face.
Follow: @iplante @s_bearden @KatrinaStevens1 @ajpodchaski @thomascmurray @bamradionetwork
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Airport Development Budget to Be Raised For Better Tourism
The Ministry of Transportation will continue to increase the airport development budget, particularly for the Komodo Airport in Labuhan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, Deputy Transportation Minister Bambang Susantono said.
"We will continue to ramp up our budget program for the development of transportation infrastructure, especially at the airport in Labuhan Bajo," Bambang said, during his address at the Garuda Indonesia flight "Explore" at Komodo airport on Tuesday.
He noted that the Ministry of Transportation was responsible for improving airport infrastructure through a carefully thought out plan.
"The development will take place in stages in order to make the results and quality perfect," Bambang pointed out.
According to him, all airports in Indonesia would be repaired or reconstructed in stages in order to provide better services to the public.
"Soon a new building project at the Komodo Airport will be completed, which will have a major impact on services related to the community and tourists who visit Labuhan Bajo," Bambang said.
He added that the new route of the Garuda Indonesia to Komodo airport in East Nusa Tenggara and Bima in West Nusa Tenggara would also have a positive impact on the development of tourism in the two areas.
"I am optimistic that more domestic and foreign tourists will visit Labunan Bajo and Bima following the commencement of Garuda's new flight to these two destinations," Bambang said.Filed under: Travel & Culture


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Dutch History
You can't come to The Netherlands without knowing something about its history. Your fellow Dutch students will certainly appreciate it if you try to grasp it, even if you mix up everything!
Origins of the Netherlands
The Dutch, as a nation, first came to the forefront of history in the 16th century when they fought the Eighty Years' War for independence from Spain. The south of the country, today's Belgium, remained a Spanish possession. The north declared itself The Republic of the Seven United Netherlands and contemporary provinces in the Netherlands are a result of this. But wait, aren't there twelve provinces nowadays? Yes, very good, during the course of history the Dutch created two more out of conquered lands from the south (Brabant and Limburg), one already existed and was made official (Drenthe), one was split in two (Holland) and, believe it or not, they built a new one in the sea!
After independence, in the 17th century, Dutch trade, science, art and navy were amongst the top of the world. During this period the Dutch also expanded their horizon globally and they have been traveling around the world ever since. New York neighborhoods like Harlem (Haarlem) and Brooklyn (Breukelen) are a legacy of the Dutch presence there. The main goal of Dutch expansion has been to establish new trade routes; it is and always has been a trading nation. Therefore, its people have always had an international orientation. Today this can be observed by the fact that most people in the Netherlands speak English. This has huge benefits since you don't have to learn Dutch to get around, though it will be appreciated if you try.
Originally a republic, the country was transformed into a monarchy after the Napoleonic Wars, the throne was occupied by the House of Orange which had played an important symbolic role in the Eighty Years' War. This is why the Dutch football team, and its supporters, are dressed in orange.
Modern History
Sticking to trade the Dutch tried to remain neutral in Europe's power politics during the 19th and 20th century. This worked in the First World War, but the country was conquered by the Germans during the Second. Already a fervent promoter of international cooperation because of its dependence on exports, the Netherlands joined the European Coal and Steel Community after the war, the first of the European Union's predecessors, as one of its six original founders. Though, the country did drop its policy of neutrality when it joined the NATO. No commies here! (Except for the hippie students in the sixties)
Today the Dutch are still travelling the world. Dutch people can be found everywhere, most to the annoyance of their own countrymen; just when you think you're on vacation your hotel neighbours greet you in Dutch! They are still trading, over two thirds of the country's GDP is derived from exports. And they are still trying to keep their feet dry, as last big flood was back in 1953.
All this can be used to describe The Netherlands, but the people and the land have an immensely rich history which can only be fully experienced coming to the country itself.


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All Genesis doctors chosen to participate in the 2015 DWC Performance Based Oversight audit received scores of 100% in ALL categories! These Genesis Doctors are now recognized as "High Tier Providers" for the Texas Division of Workers Compensation! In a collaborative effort with our doctors, Genesis compliance services continue to set the industry standard.
Contact us today to discuss how Genesis can help with all your compliance needs!


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This is one incredible burnout by the Winner of Meguiars Awards 2011, 1968 Supercharged Dodge Charger by Johan Ericsson! While you are under the hypnosis of the sound this car produces, try to keep an eye on the car itself. Observe that glorious black paintjob combined with the chromed rims! Classic car, with classic look! This way you will know for sure why this automobile won at a Custom Motor Show in Sweden. While striving towards the new technologies, it is always good to take care of something dating from the good old days and reminding of them. This is the ultimate 1968 Dodge Charger Burnout!
There were always talks and rumors that Swedish people were huge muscle car lovers. However, we did not even assume that this kind of video could be shot somewhere outside of the US! Seeing this 1968 Dodge Charger Burnout makes you feel proud. It makes you feel that the Muscle Cars ambassadors did a great job at presenting these cars to the rest of the world!
This beautiful car is definitely the type that you stand next to and take a picture! With the Super Charger peaking out of the hood, it`s a true warrior! And yes, here is the proof! The Dodge Charger roars, it does not purr! And the 1968 Dodge Charger Burnout that you are about to see will make you roar as well! It did effect us in that way, hope it`s not weird.
There is a surprise for you somewhere in the middle of the video. Do you want to know what that is? Don`t wait, and press play! Turn the speakers on and enjoy the symphony and feel free to share your thoughts!
Finally, take a look at another 1968 Dodge Charger that roars through the streets by following this link!


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Four years ago, the GL events Group launched a group-wide sustainable development initiative, and today it has a specific department in this field reporting to the Group's Vice-Chairman. GL events' environmental programme "Think Green" is built on 16 commitments covering the entire event life-cycle. Today, this has led to the implementation of associated initiatives: "Think People" concerning labour and social issues and "Think Local" concerning the societal aspect of sustainable development.
As part of the Think Green programme, GL events Venues launched an ISO 14001 certification* process for all its venues in France; the certification was obtained in 2012, making GL events the first event venue network to be certified on such a scale according to this standard. This initiative has translated into the implementation of actions and processes addressing key issues, such as waste management and energy saving, based on a policy of continuous improvement. The Barcelona International Convention Centre has double certification, ISO 14001 and EMAS**, and the World Forum in The Hague has the Green Key label.
We would also like to point out that any new venue joining the GL events Venues network must go through this certification process. For example, in 2013, the Maison de la Mutualité, La Sucière and the Nice Acropolis launched their certification processes.
As regards the labour and social component, GL events Venues draws on the Think People programme, deployed throughout the Group. The programme is co-managed by the Human Resources Department and addresses three main issues: diversity (disability, gender, age, social integration), well-being in the work place and career management. The safety of employees and the public is a major priority for GL events Venues. In order to guarantee everyone's safety in our venues, the requisite human and technical resources are implemented through strict procedures and with qualified personnel, coordinated through a dedicated network.
Aware of its territorial, economic, social and societal impact, GL events has decided to evaluate the effects of its activities on the local environment. The aim of the "Think Local" programme is to carry out research into the value (in the broadest sense) created in every region or area in which the Group has venues and operations. Within the framework of our venue management business, we work closely with local authorities and different regional stakeholders, since Exhibition Parks and Convention Centres are powerful economic development tools as well as focal points for events in cities.
> For more information, we invite you to consult our corporate social responsibility policy.
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Jeffrey Earle Taxman, M.D., Medical Director and Psychiatrist
As Medical Director of Mequon Clinical Associates (MCA), Dr. Jeffrey Taxman has infused his compassion for client care, comprehensive mental health treatment and outreach to all aspects of the community into how MCA operates day in, day out. A practicing psychiatrist and trained psychoanalyst with over 35 years experience across Wisconsin and the nation, Dr. Taxman has a breadth of experience academically, clinically and medically that strengthens MCA and expands its reach to positively impact the community of Mequon and beyond (see video below). In addition to his work at MCA, Dr. Taxman is an Associate Clinical Faculty Member of the Medical College of Wisconsin, Department of Psychiatry where he teaches theory and clinical technique to psychiatry residents.
With such wide ranging experience and interest, Dr. Taxman's primary clinical focus is on-going psychotherapy and working with his patients and those at MCA to evaluate their complete medical condition and assess its impact on their mental health.
Dr, Taxman works with patients age 16 and older. His clinical philosophy:
"Patients often don't know what the problem is. They don't know the solution, or they wouldn't be here. Yet, the patient is the only one that has the answers. My job is to help them find the real problem and their best solution, not unlike an experienced guide on a mountain path. This approach demands an initial position of humility and respect on the therapist's part."
Dr. Taxman is also an internationally recognized expert on massive community disaster relief and supporting first responders and those dealing with crisis situations in the workplace and their communities. In addition to his work with first responders at Ground Zero weeks after the attacks of September 11th, he has worked with police officers, military, federal law enforcement officers, and other first responders in the United States, China, Haiti, Jordan, and Sri Lanka.
Undergraduate: Brandeis University
Medical School: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Residency: Cornell University-New York Hospital-Westchester
Psychoanalytic Training: Chicago Institute of Psychoanalysis


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OEMs Reveal Their Vista Upgrade Plans
While both Gateway and Hewlett-Packard are going to let customers who buy certain PCs this holiday season upgrade to Windows Vista at no cost, Dell has decided to charge a fee to upgrade from Windows XP Home to Vista Basic.
These OEM announcements closely follow that of Microsoft, which finally revealed Oct. 24 its upgrade plans for customers who buy a Windows Vista capable PC this holiday season.
Dell spokesman Bob Kaufman told eWEEK that while the company plans to charge $45 plus shipping and handling to move from Windows XP Home to Vista Basic, the upgrade from Windows XP Media Center Edition to Vista Premium and from Windows XP Pro to Vista premium will only incur a shipping and handling fee.
"There are also no proof-of-purchase requirements or other cumbersome verifications efforts. We know who our customers are and we can help counsel them on what they need to buy a Vista capable system," Kaufman said.
When Vista becomes available, customers will receive two DVD's: one which contains Vista and the other which gives a step-by-step process on how to load the new operating system, he said.
Read the rest of this eWEEK story: "OEMs Reveal Their Vista Upgrade Plans"


text: Emmanuel Episcopal Church is a vibrant church community in the heart of Alexandria. We are a medium-size parish that values fellowship, as well as service. For more than 100 years, Emmanuel has welcomed individuals and families as long-term members or short-time visitors. Our Sunday services are at 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. All are welcome!


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Anyone who has been in or around Columbus City Schools knows that major changes are needed so that we can provide the best education possible for all children in Columbus. Mayor Coleman has taken on this crucial issue, and formed the Columbus Education Commission to improve education in our city. The Commission was formed with $500k in corporate dollars, and $500 of our public dollars. There are 25 appointed members, some of whom have proposed "solutions" that could have devastating results for our neighborhood schools and our children.
At the last commission meeting, changes to the way our schools are run were proposed, including a school board takeover. A school takeover means that we as parents, grandparents, teachers, concerned citizens, and our community would lose the ability to vote to impact our children's education. Unelected and unaccountable people would be running our school board and controlling the funds that taxpayers put towards education.
While there are real problems in our schools that need real solutions, corporations are trying to take advantage and profit off of these issues. They want to control our schools because it means control over the Columbus City Schools' $1.4 billion budget. Similar efforts in other cities like Chicago have led to massive school closings, strikes, lay offs, and has severely interrupted children's education.
Fixing our schools takes the entire community working together for the betterment of our children. When powerful people play politics with our schools, it is our children who pay the price.
Now is the time to tell the commission not to give up on the Columbus community. The Ohio Student Association and the No School Takeover community coalition will host a public Town Hall to discuss these issues and show that we are more than capable of holding our elected school board members accountable for the children of Columbus.
Click here to join the facebook event page!


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Books 'n' Bottles
Northbrook | Website
This event occurred in the past.
Map | Find Parking
Enjoy quality wine tasting while mixing and mingling with author Tim Johnston during his first and only North Shore appearance to sign copies of his best-selling thriller, "Descent." Books, wine and more are available for purchase with Bonus Buy discount packages that are offered. On June 27 meet the author at TASTE Food and Wine, 1506 W. Jarvis Ave., Chicago from 6-8 p.m. also.


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If your teen is considering colleges outside your zip code, time zone or even in a different country, it's unlikely you'll be able to visit each one. There is plenty of information available online, but here's why visiting a college in person is helpful—and how your teen can make the most of the time spent on campus.
Demonstrate interest. Besides good grades, extracurricular activities and decent SAT scores, colleges also consider "demonstrated interest." This means admissions officers take notice and collect data each time you schedule a tour online, visit the campus, and send a follow-up email to admission officers or faculty.
Do your homework. Check out college websites and research valuable information prior to your visit. This will help you ask more meaningful, intelligent questions during your tour or interview.
Ask questions. Talk to your tour guide, other students and faculty, and ask questions related to your interests. Find out how they feel about campus life.
Meet face-to-face. Schedule an interview with an admissions officer. In addition to your essays, this is one of the most important opportunities for setting yourself apart from the competition. If you're unable to interview on campus, speak with alumni in your hometown or participate in an online video interview. Two exemplary applications may be similar on paper, but the standout student is the one who makes a unique, powerful impression during an interview.
Improvise during interviews. There are plenty of sample interviews online with recommended questions. While it's helpful to practice, remember that colleges want to know the real you—not a rehearsed answer to a generic question.
Observe a class. Visit during the semester and sit in on a course or lab in your intended major. How do the facilities and equipment compare with other colleges? Are students engaged in class? Can you imagine yourself here?
Dream in a dorm. Attend an orientation and spend the night in a dorm. This will give you the chance to experience the culture and personality of the school first-hand.
Take notes and photos. Dorms, cafeterias, and academic buildings can start to blur from campus to campus, so take lots of notes and photos. Describe how you feel during your visit, identify what you like and don't like, and rank your selected schools from most to least favorite.
Your teen is going to spend the next four years of her life at college, so take the time to help her find the "best fit" school—her next home away from home.
Ronni Rowland is a freelance writer and mother of two daughters, ages 15 and 17. Her oldest was accepted early decision to a college in Memphis, TN. Rowland believes the interview was a key factor.
Published: February 2015


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For Halloween: We all dressed up! Justin was Mr Incredible, I was a witch, Jackson was Optimus Prime, and Rhett was Jake from Jake and the Neverland pirates. We trick or treated with my BFF Meri and her family.
For Thanksgiving: We spent Thanksgiving at Justin's mom's house in NC. Justin's sister and her family also came to NC and it SNOWED! We had a wonderful time!
For Christmas, we did all of our favs: decorated the house and tree, lots of baking, The Living Christmas Tree at Bethany Church, the lights at James Island County Park, Visit with Santa, decorated a Gingerbread house, and spent time with my family.
Here are photos of some of the highlights in jumbled order:
|A dead pine tree crashed through our roof!
|Fall school photos
|Two peas in a pod
|Cousin love
|8 Year anniversary
|Thanskgiving at Nanas
|Picking out our Christmas Tree
|Holiday Festival of Lights
|Intro to Star Wars
|Dueling Leap Pads
|First Hockey Game: SC Stingrays
|New Years 2014
|We LOVE Mrs. Yves!
|New Bedding
|Big Boy bed!
|My Birthday-Big 34!
|Impromptu Trip to Medieval Times-They LOVED it!
|Spending time with Great Grandpa
|Great Grandma and Great Grandpa
|Croup!! Sent to ER twice from the pediatricians office...NOT FUN for anyone!
|My world!
|Justin got to see the Doobie Brothers at a work conference
|Best Buds
|15 year HS mini reunion
|Love them
|Swim lessons
|Justin's 36th Bday