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We lived in Calgary 18 years ago and I remember paying money for the Lunch Program which I thought meant eating a lunch at school. Boy was I wrong when my daughter came home by bus from her designated public school, hungry because the Lunch Program wasn't for food …. it was to pay for supervision. There weren't any schools in our community because it was new. The next year we had to pay a bus fee and were given a by on the Lunch Program fee. The year we left, the board sent home a notice asking us to prioritize a music specialist, sports specialist, and librarian because they didn't have enough funds for all three and they wanted to prioritize the roles. I wanted all three. That was my foray into public education and it hasn't gotten any better. I feel the Lunch Program/supervision should be included in the school's operating costs. Click here to read the full story or an excerpt below. Click here or the pdf file to read the and go to page 164/188 for the Calgary Board of Education Fee structure.
Althea Adams, like many Calgary parents, got a hefty bill from the Calgary Board of Education this year: $1,300 in various fees for her two sons attending elementary school.
The money covers a variety of services:
- $30 each for instructional supplies and services
- $285 each for noon supervision
- $670 combined for transportation — the school bus
Adams might be fine, but a growing proportion of Calgary parents with children in the Calgary Board of Education aren't — 10 per cent of fees were waived in the 2014-15 school year (the latest available), up from nine per cent in the two years before. They represented about $3.1 million.
The board waives school fees for people on provincial financial assistance or who receive the Alberta Child Health Benefit, or that it determines are otherwise in financial hardship. It says that no child is ever denied access to education because of an inability to pay fees.
According to Brad Grundy, chief financial officer for the CBE, the higher number of waivers is partly because of an increase in the charge for lunch supervision about two years ago — which meant a greater financial burden for more families.
And many people just aren't paying. The board sent 7,400 transportation and lunch supervision accounts to collections agencies in 2014-15, representing about $2.1 million in uncollected fees.
he board gets back about 40 cents of every dollar sent to collections, which is money they wouldn't get otherwise, he said.
No date set for provincial fee reductions: education minister
The school board, like many others in Alberta, charges fees to make up for funding shortfalls, said Grundy. "It's a fairly easy equation. It's the dollars we get from the province. It's the cost of providing that service. Put the two together and if there's a gap, it becomes a fee."
The NDP government campaigned on reducing school fees in the province, but didn't act on that promise in its last budget, citing the difficult economy. According to information provided by the office of the minister of education, David Eggen, school boards across Alberta planned to charge about $250.7 million in school fees in their budgets last year.


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Technical Details

subset: commoncrawl


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The beginning of the affair was on a Sunday. I distinctly remember this because my to do list slowly became undone. A fascination built inside & it grew until my mind no longer contained it, but, instead, I wrapped up inside it and let it consume me. As with most of my obsessions, I expected it to be short lived. Forget dishes and grocery store trips, I am in my head and all other ideas are lost.
Around 15, I held my first guitar, not my own, but a lovers. Heavy and solid, it hung loosely around my body. Awkward and unsure of what to do with it, I found my fingers lightly strumming over the metal strings, fascinated. Mostly by the musician, not particularly the instrument. I like the way it moans under pressure, but i like the way he moans under pressure more. The humming of a hot body next to mine, groping, finding the softest spots, the ones that make him buck a little. Entwined briefly, all energy exerted into thrusts and sweat pours. The after, laying on the soft grass, watching clouds roll by and the sun drenches us when we step out of the shadows, a secret between us.
Sitting on the foot of my bed, listening to records, he whispers the words to the songs, lightly sings into my ear. Every sense perks up, swallowing words, broken promises meant for someone else. The same words I'd heard, only different when spoken by a long haired boy who plays a guitar. Records became something powerful there in my room. The boy changed, others came, but only the ones who played guitars stayed.
At the foot of a much different bed, I rest the weight on the tops of my legs and stare down at this new lover, so daunting to me. Unlike the others, he managed to captivate me for a lifetime. I am unsure where our relationship stands, too much fear entangled in the love, but today, I am going to break him. Turning it up a notch, I strum my fingers slowly across his strings. All of the skills my hands know won't help me now,so my practice begins. If I have my way, he will fall just in love with me as I am with him, my guitar.


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The number one area for all California employers should be the proper classification of their employees. Too often, employers don't know the guidelines for determining if an employee is exempt or non-exempt from overtime provisions.
You've probably seen the headlines - Wells Fargo recently settled for $12.8 million...IBM ponied up $65 million, and many small businesses have written large checks as well - all because they misclassified their employees.
This article is a good attempt and trying to simplify a very complicated issue. Get your labor attorney or HR consultant to review all of your job descriptions to avoid writing that big check.


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Seven years have gone past in a blink. Everything has changed so fast. The mighty giants have become the minnows, the team of greats has become the team of fallen heroes. For the newer generation of football fans, I must say that the scoreline (Liverpool 4-0 Real Madrid) is not a bluff, it really happened. No one in the Kop could believe what they saw in front of their eyes, might be the best of the best of Liverpool – the creme de la creme.
Liverpool just beat Real Madrid 1-0 at Bernabeu a few days back and everyone was saying that it was a fluke. Everyone was telling that Real Madrid would take the revenge by thrashing them in front of the Kop by breaking their heart. But what they did forget was that, they were up against Liverpool, the best English side to play in Europe. They did not realize that Champions League night at Anfield is different. A different passion grows under the floodlights, a unprecedented zeal surges in front of the one of the best crowds.
Pepe Reina did mention about Iker Casillas and also mentioned that Iker was going to be immense in this fixture. Without any doubt he was, else Real Madrid would have easily conceded few more. Steven Gerrard always comes up with something special in the knockouts and with him he got a new Fernando Torres who was looking forward to prove himself as the best of Spain against the best of Spain under the bar.
Real Madrid could not believe the hostile welcome they got and Liverpool caught them off guards. But, it was hard to get past Iker Casillas. But Torres pushed hard and found the back of the net with ease and a little bit of aggression. With 3 goals needed to go to the next round, Real Madrid went out all guns blazing, but Liverpool replied in counter attacks. In one such attack Heinze gave a hand ball in the penalty area. Without any doubt the flag went up and Stevie G stepped up to seal the deal.
There was pin drop silence. Stevie looked up, spotted the ball and smashed one in the corner. The crowd got mad and to tell the truth Casillas could not have done better. He saved two long rangers from Mascherano, otherwise it could have ended in the first half.
In the second half, it was all Liverpool attacking the Kop end. When the attacks dried up, Benitez pulled his ace. Ryan Babel was asked to go all out. He sped past a white shirt, put a decent cross and with the sweetest touch of the gifted right foot Steven Gerrard produced the most picturesque moment. The celebration after that goal can be found in the desktop of every Liverpool supporter.
All is well when it ends well. Andrea Dossena slotted a fourth to complete the embarrassment. No one remembers Dossena that much apart from his goals against Manchester United and Real Madrid. The scoreline read and thus ended one of the most beautiful European nights of Anfield.
The time has changed very quickly. Last seasoned Madrid came to Anfield and scored 3. That kind of victory does not come very often. But, when it comes it becomes a legendary night, a story to tell to the many generations to come.
Highlights of Liverpool 4-0 Real Madrid :
Did you watch the game which ended as Liverpool 4-0 Real Madrid? Let us know your comments below.


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Rats are pests that invade homes and buildings, causing unsanitary living conditions. These rodents carry diseases and parasites and can infect the food supply with bacteria if they eat it. Rodenticides, another name for rat poisons, are powerful poisons designed to kill rats and eliminate infestations. Because they are poisons, the substances are toxic to people and pets. With proper safety precautions, though, rat poison can kill rats without causing any other harm.
Place rat poison in areas not accessible to pets and children. Some good places to put rat poison are attics, inside walls, and closed crawl spaces. Do not put rat poison behind stoves or other places where pets may be able to pull it out with their paws.
Use rat poison pellets sealed in bags rather than powdered rat poison. Powdered rat poison is almost impossible to remove completely from the area where it has been applied. Sealed bags of pellet rat poison will be almost entirely eaten by the rodents, and the leftover packets can be easily discarded.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling rat poison.
Store unused rat poison in a sealed plastic container located on a high shelf. This precaution prevents accidental access to the poison by children.
Do not open bags of rat poison pellets to distribute the pellets. The pellets can be confused for food by pets and kill them.


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Even though I have a lot of work to do, I'm going to start working on two of my Zelda textures right now. Cookies to the person that gets it right. A hint? Two Nintendo characters made a cameo appearance in that one Zelda game, but they are different. You can notice them, though.
Also, I'm going to start re-making my lost textures such as Fierce Deity Kirby, Darth Ike, Vile, Waddle Dee, etc.
I'm also going to fix my Cel-Shaded Toon Link's eyes now, too so expect a download when I will be done making the two textures.


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My sister was able to come in from North Carolina.
Tomorrow we are celebrating Christmas as a family. We are going to make at least one ginger bread house, and eat Christmas dinner together. One last time. It really sucks that it will be our last Christmas together, but I am so grateful to have one more day with everyone under one roof.
So I am pleading with God for one more good day. One more day for my mom to have a little bit of energy. One more day for her to have her pain under control. One more puke free day.
Please don't get me wrong. I would like hundreds of more good days. But, I am pleading for just one. Because I know that once my mom goes home to Jesus she will have millions of good days.
Facebook lets you do your "year in review." I think I barfed in my mouth when I heard that. Reviewing and reliving this year sometimes feels like the last thing I would ever want to do. How in the world did it all happen? How did I practically live in hospitals with my mom for a couple months sleeping with my big 'ol pregnant belly on pull out chairs? How did I watch my mom almost die three times, to only have to watch it in slow motion all over again months later. How did my once young and healthy mother get admitted to hospice?
But then I slow down, and I start to reframe.
How did a community of people, both near and far, encircle my family with prayers and pictures? How did people love us enough to donate money to a fundraiser to help us survive? Why did so many people drop whatever they were doing when I sent out our desperate prayer requests? How did so many people join us in the fight for my mom's life? How did coworkers know exactly what I needed? How did I become a mom?
I could ask "how" and "why" forever, but it doesn't matter. In two weeks time we will be in 2013, and this year will be over. The book will be closed on what might be both the best and the worst year of my life. For one reason or another, this was my path to walk, this was my family's path to walk, and we were blessed enough to not have to walk alone. I will never be able to change 2012, so instead I will let it sear into my heart. I will let the pain hurt, and I will feel the joy. I will remember it all and let it mold me and shape me. I will say prayers of lament and gratitude. And all in all, we will be better for it. I have learned to laugh harder, and cry louder. I have learned to love deeper this year, and for that I am grateful.


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Meetings that work well, and reach decisions are those that have a carefully constructed and worded agenda that is strictly adhered to. Meeting agendas provide the framework for discussions and also decision-making.
Step 1: Getting started
The best place to start your meeting agendas are to read through any minutes from the previous meetings. Minutes are a useful point of reference as it marks the limits of where decisions had been made, and those decisions have to be made at the next meeting. The minutes should state if any business needed to be carried forward, and that needs to be included in the agendas. The remaining business should be placed in the agendas in order of importance, and to fit around any new information, or discussions that senior management need to have included.
Step 2: Provisional Drafts and Management Consulted
Agendas should always clearly state where, and when the meetings are to be held, those people that are due to attend. It should also state if there are any advanced notices of people not been able to attend plus if they are sending somebody else to take their place. To make sure everything runs smoothly the time for each topic should be set,
Agendas are best written after consulting with senior managers; ideally word everything that they require to be included in the way that they state it to you. It is best to use their rankings of importance so that they will be content in the knowledge that the priority issues will be dealt with first, and allotted more time than the less important ones.
Step 3: Contacting Others Going To the Meetings
Then it is sensible to discuss with other people that will be attending the meetings to verify if they would like any other issues, or topics to be added to the agendas. Generally these topics will be ranked as being of lesser importance than what senior managers have asked to be put on the agendas. Such suggestions can be listed separately depending on their potential impact on the organization, or they can lumped together right at the end of the list in the Any Other business section. An estimate of how time will be needed should be noted on the agendas.
Step 4: Sending the Agendas Out
Before sending out the meeting agendas have the draft read through by senior managers to agree to them, or to change things if needed, or if management need to change items for discussion and their order of priority, and how much time can spared for each one.
After discussing all the draft agendas with everybody that is due to attend then they can be emailed to all the parties that are going to the meetings, and provide a sound indication of how long each meeting will last for.


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I am not going to write anything approaching the profound. I'm just going to say a few things and explain them. Yeah, I am a pinko Liberal so let's just get THAT out of the way now.
First, let me say this. In recent weeks several friends of mine have urged me to take a stand on a Presidential candidate. It was startling to me that anyone considers my vote and opinion that important. They know who they are, and have my thanks, and gratitude. I am–and always have–been honored to call them my friends.
But, I must be honest. It has been a struggle. Originally, I vowed to keep an open mind, and actually listen to each of them before I decided. I actually did that, but as much as I tried–from day one, it was obvious to me whom I would NOT be voting for.
Donald Trump was a non-starter, From the day of his announcement, through the GOP Convention, he has managed to blaze a trail of insults from one end of America to the other. Never in my personal, or professional life, have I experienced a candidate who fosters so much turmoil and discontent–and somehow manages to win the nomination. He has managed to take the heartfelt support of people all over the country, and twist it into something just this side of an unholy mess. If you support Trump, fine. But if I were you, I'd be thoroughly pissed off that he took your honest support, and crapped all over it, and the Republican Party.
As you can tell, I never made a secret of my distaste for Trump and I won't now. Until his convention speech, it never dawned on me that he's simply Nixon without the political acumen. He's following the Southern Strategy to almost a tee. The difference is he doesn't have George Wallace protecting his flank. Trump has tapped into the Obama-hating, angry white-guy voting base. Just like Nixon tapped into it after the Civil Rights movement took hold. Frankly, I was a moron NOT to see it before I did.
All of that being the case, then who?
It was initially Bernie Sanders. I liked almost everything about his campaign. The ideas of course, and the renegade aspect had great appeal as well. But as things progressed, and Hillary pulled out to a lead, I noticed a change in Sanders' base of support. There was almost an undercurrent of malevolence that bothered me then, and still does. The best I can describe it is Liberal Rage.
Rage that anyone would question Bernie's ideas, and candidacy, and outrage that his supporters were seemingly being marginalized. Certainly understandable, but when you are in the game of national politics, you need to wear big-boy pants occasionally, and realize you lose more than you win. there was no rigged nomination, the Super-Delegate process has been in effect since 1984.
We saw this Liberal Rage in the small tantrums they threw at the Democratic National Convention. Fortunately, the practical faction of the Sanders camp prevailed, and Bernie himself displayed the dignity and class that was needed, and has been largely missing during this campaign cycle. Will it be enough to get those people under the Hillary tent? Hard to say for sure, but I believe it will be in the end.
My next flirtation was Gary Johnson. To be completely honest about it, I REALLY think I could and would support Johnson and Bill Weld–if it were any other year. I'll agree with one of my Republican friends when he says if Weld were on TOP of that ticket, he'd pull that lever. But this isn't happening either. (Yes, I do have Republican friends.)
Which brings us to Hillary Clinton. I have never been completely certain about Hillary Clinton. Not about her sincerity. Not always of her innocence in some questionable situations. But I will say this. Hillary has been in the public eye in this country since she worked for the Senate Judiciary Committee investigating Watergate. Yes, there is a lot of smoke and insinuations about her possible conduct and behavior. But in the entire period of time since she emerged. She has been investigated ENDLESSLY, and the Republicans—who did most of the investigating–have never laid a glove on her.
Now you can say what you like about her AND Bill being slippery and able to skate by, but it says to me the Republicans have managed to waste millions of dollars, and manage a seemingly unending wild goose chase and have got NOTHING to show for it. By-the-way, I do not subscribe to the 'Mysterious Deaths List', attributed to her and Bill. People die. Frequently. Every day in fact. Over a three-decade career you lose people. Do I think Hillary Clinton is squeaky-clean? Of course not, but she's no arch-villain either. I do however, think Trump could easily be mistaken for Lex Luthor in the correct kind of light.
When it comes down to the final vote. The decision for this election, I must admit still being torn. I'm not at all sold on Clinton or Johnson, but Trump is a non-starter. But with his surge and convention performance, he helped me decide.
I have never seen four days like the GOP Convention. Possibly the four darkest days politically since Nixon resigned. (also a GOP Production). I heard nothing positive. That clinched it for me.
I'm voting for Hillary Clinton–but it's more of a vote against Donald Trump. A vote against darkness.
Oh one more thing. For those who are saying, "I knew it all along?" No, you didn't because even I didn't know for sure until today. I'm not telling anyone who to vote for. But when I think about being raised by a single-Mom, with my sister, and the remarkable women I have had in my life, I cannot in good conscience allow a Trump candidacy to go unnoticed and un-criticized. But Trump's misogyny and what seems to be bigotry is not what we as a country need.
I would vote for Johnson, but he has no shot. So I will vote against Trump and For Hillary Clinton. I am NOT telling you who to vote for. My only request is that you VOTE period. Particularly the down-ticket races. Nothing will ever change if you don't vote.


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"I don't want to," I say, phone cradled to my ear. I look at a sore on my hand, shake my head. "I want to look pretty tonight and not have a big black circle on my hand," I say.
"Well, if you want to know for sure if it's getting worse..." he says.
"I know," I say, "I just don't want to." Coffee in the microwave, I flick the door closed and press 30 seconds.
"Ok, well..." he says.
We visit over loose ends, Christmas party planning. The timer beeps. I grab my coffee, hang up the phone.
"You'll always be pretty," Jack says. He taps my elbow, silent eavesdropper.
"Aw, thanks Jack," I say.
"No, seriously," he says. "You'll ALWAYS be pretty."
I stop, slow to look right into his eyes. "Thanks, honey."
"And even if you weren't," he shakes his head, "you'd still be pretty on the inside, and that's what really counts."
"That's true," I say. "That's what God cares about."
"That's what God sees," he says.
I carry his words inside, like a banner. I bend my identity around them, the truth. And I feel a tiny wave of shame at implying true beauty is so fragile.
5695. The birth of our savior, Christ the Lord -- we celebrate with my family. God's gift encircles us.


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Every woman in the world has had, at some point, a bad hair day!
It's annoying, i know, i have a struggle with my hair every single day.
My hair it's curly, but not the nice, flowy and bouncy curls, no! It's a mess of frizzy, stuck out the the hair curls, so i straighten it every day. But it's exhausting!
My harms get tired, the hair doesn't always turn out the way i want it and in these days i loose precious minutes of my daily routine trying to get my hair right without succeding.
When this happened i just made a poney tale and resigned to my fate, but now, with the big bun trend i can be stylish, have a polished, professional look for those days when my hair just doesn't cooperate.
And you can try a bunch of different buns too. You can make a little braid to twist it up a bit, a low bun, a high bun, a messy bun, a tight bun, a side bun, whatever you like you can do it and look good.
Which bun is your favourite?


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Hey guys!
Thanks for getting back to normal. I was getting worried about you for a bit there, after the weeks of pain and... Other symptoms. I figured I'd wait until the school year was going a bit more smoothly, since I know stress has always made you crazy. I'm sorry going back to school this year has been so hard on you; it's been hard on me too, you know. Being nervous about whether or not I want to go into teaching (and professional kid wrangling), the initial shock upon encountering the really rambunctious class I've been assigned to tutor, the quiet glee emanating from the lady up North every time I have a negative experience in this program (aren't parents supposed to be supportive?)... It's just been a bit much. I'm sorry, and I'm glad we're friends again. Life is so much better when you're doing your job.


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After weeks of faffing about, our potential buyer has taken his ball and gone home. Bah. Now, there are two ways to view this development. I could sit in a corner, rock and weep a bit, before getting up and preparing the house for another viewing. The second option involves ripping the 'for sale' board out of the lawn, laughing manically as the agent attempts to arrange more viewings, and deciding to make the best of what we've got. The second option is deeply, bone warmingly appealing.
Therefore, today I am making enquiries. The ever tolerant husband wants quotes for new bathrooms and a patio. I will make these calls. However, I also have a secret agenda. I need to track down a carpenter to plot my chook palace with. Mwahahahahaha!
One of the main appeals of moving was the tempting thought of a bigger garden. A bigger garden means more chickens! I can't make my garden bigger, but I can create a fabulous walk in run, complete with many perches. A sort of chicken playground, if you will. I have a very definite idea as to how I want it to look, hence the sneaky carpenter finding. I imagine it stood on the newly paved area near the current coop, which is a mud bath, and has been all winter. It will have hanging baskets, and a weathervane. There will be a hanging sign reading 'The Convent'. My ladies will be chicken royalty (I also realise that this will cement my 'madchickenlady' persona, but I don't care. So ner).
Alas, my plans for hatching a few chicks etc will have to be shelved. I am disappointed, but am realistic about keeping a few hens (or, er, eight) in the average suburban garden. One day I will get my adorable frizzle, and that will have to be good enough for now.
And you know what? It is.


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- ADiamondInTheRough
- 4 years ago
Never owned one before, but I'm curious to try some new style of cooking. Have any of you had success in creating something yummy? Or, do you rely on traditional cooking methods. I'm worried I'll buy one but wont be able to make use out of it.


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Antoni Gaudi, the famed and celebrated architect of Barcelona, once said 'The great book, always open and which we should make an effort to read, is that of Nature.' I saw this in his architecture, sinuous, geometric; mimicking the natural world and celebrating its link to greater wisdom.
On Sundays, I usually make an effort to go to Columbia Road Flower Market. While initially I thought it would be idyllic, a pastoral promenade of sellers offering carefully tended blooms, I found, instead, a boisterous scene, full of people, and populated with the most vociferous (aggressive?) flower merchants I have ever seen. Over time, I have grown to love their funny ways and their gruff manner; at the heart of it all, are some magnificent flowers (at some great prices).
My roommate and I purchased a climbing Passion Flower plant at Columbia Road six weeks ago and I continue to marvel at its strangeness and its ability to thrive. It seems to send out the most delicate tendrils, yet, once they clasp on to the trellis, these slim stems coil round tightly and become incredibly strong. Within a month of sitting on our shared balcony/corridor, the plant had surpassed the trellis and is now reaching upwards. At first, I was perplexed at what to do, but this Sunday I had the idea to string twine across from the outdoor pipes, giving the Passion Flower plant new lease on life, a new path.
There is something incredibly instructive about plants. There is only so much you can do. Give them water, give them light, give them structure; what they do, how they grow, is up to them. You can only take care of them so much. And so life teaches me that there is only so much I can do, the rest remains with faith, what unfolds can bring marvel if you let the unexpected take its path.
Monday, August 27, 2012
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Winston Churchill once described 'If' (1895) by Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936), as his 'spiritual autobiography', which eloquently embodies the impact of Kipling's writing upon both the individual and the collective. Kipling's works have become part of British culture and heritage, still resonating with many today and often quoted by many in motivational speeches and remembrance services.
The acclaim that Kipling received in his lifetime, with texts such as The Jungle Book (1894), Kim (1901), The Man Who Would Be King (1888), and his various poetry, found its origins from Kipling's own life and interests. Born in Bombay (now called Mumbai), in 1865, to a teacher and artist, Kipling had an infinity with India and its vibrant heritage, however at just six years old, he was sent to live with a foster family in Southsea so that he could attend boarding school, at his mother's wish. In his isolation, Kipling escaped his loneliness in his imagination, creating stories and plays. It is possible that in his childhood imagination Kipling envisioned talking animals and anthropomorphic figures, much like the ones he wrote about in The Jungle Book and other works of his adult career.
Upon his return to India in 1882, Kipling worked as a journalist in Lahore, and only wrote fiction in his spare time, mainly at night. He suffered from insomnia and would often walk the streets in the early hours of the morning, witnessing street vendors set up for the day ahead. This experience immersed Kipling into the diverse Indian culture. Consequently, with India being part of The British Empire from 1858-1947, Kipling experienced two very different worlds: the wealthy but oppressive elitist society of The British Raj, and the native, more natural and heterogeneous Indian night-time culture. This amalgamation of different cultures, created a relationship between both countries for Kipling and other authors alike, that still to this day, is intrinsically connected. Despite the political, military, and social oppression enforced in India under The British Raj, texts, such as E.M. Forster's A Passage to India and Frances Hodgeson Burnet's A Little Princess, have become contemporary symbols of the Anglo-Indian relationship, a major part of our joint cultural identity and history and pieces of reflection.
Most famously, and controversially for many contemporary Indian post-colonialists, is Kipling's The Jungle Book. Becoming one of the most recognisable texts in international literature from the period, the story of Mowgli, a young boy, and his animal friends has come to eclipse Kipling's entire career. However, later in Kipling's career was written some of his most provoking works, including 'My Boy Jack' (1915). During the First World War (1914-1918), John, Kipling's son and inspiration for 'If', was killed in battle, and, thus, his death sent Kipling into a hazy depression. The series of poems that were published after the loss of his son embraced the sombre mood of the times, capturing the feeling of people. Despite his ill-health and heartbreak, Kipling continued to be a key figure of intellect and admiration, continuing his writing and, even, in 1922 he became Rector at The University of St Andrews for three years.
Buried next to Charles Dickens and Thomas Hardy in Westminster Abbey in 1936, Kipling's works have impacted so many people, from Churchill to George Orwell. The recognition he receives and the continual use of his works by many serves as a testament to his genius and unique imagination.


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Thursday, September 29, 2005
'Nano' Technology
But now, it was this review that gave me an insight on what went into the iPod Nano. Memory Chips, Processors and even the awesome thin stip of printed circuit behind the 'Click Wheel' caught me unaware. We had seen and wondered the beauty of the pencil-thick Nano. And now this insight review... We jus dont know, how far the technology can grow and what lies in our future.
Not withstanding the extreme review, Apple has admitted that there was some fault in Nano's LCD screen that made LCDs in some of the Nanos crack and break. However, Apple also maintained that it was a quality problem and not a design problem in Nano.
Even then, who wouldnt want to try their hands on the best tech gig the world has ever seen - 'iPod Nano'.
UPDATE: The Word Verification for comments is now turned 'ON' in this blog. Jus now, I removed three comment spams that sprang up jus minutes after we posted. Hope, at least the pain of typing the word for verification would turn down those spamming the blog. Keep Posting everyone. Cheers. Magnus.
Google celebrates its 7th birthday this September.
Happy Birthday Google!!!
Here is some thing real fun, have a look at the holiday logos of Google, which you see time and again in the google page.
Holiday Logos
PS: - Did anyone say that the individual digits of the year Google was launched adds up to 7.
Pal: Because I choose to.
Yours Semper Fi,
PS: This post was inspired by this blog post by Phoenix.
Poverty Tourism
Poverty Tourism
This is the new buzzword people. Poverty tourism is the breakthrough concept that is going to make the Indian Tourism industry really boom! Remember Munna Bhai (Pooor People, Reeeeel People)?
There is an article about it here.
Though the phrase sounds somewhat derogatory, the general attitude of whoever writes about this issue seems to be politically correct, but I think its just to avoid flaming.
I think Poverty Tourism, in the long run, will make the so called first-worlders more sensitive to international poverty and will force a rethink on poverty in their home country.
Your thoughts guys and girls?
Saturday, September 24, 2005
Take care people!!!
Aimed at providing people with an avenue to support child rights and change the situation of underprivileged children, CRY America has organized a national event called WALK 2005 for Child fundamental rights.
CRY requests you to participate in the CRY Walk held on October 2nd in Santa Monica, CA and help in changing the faces and lives of Underprivileged Children.
The walk includes a Walk Tshirt for every participant, Snacks from Annapurna Cuisine, Kids event and live music by CRY Band 2005 on the scenic Santa Monica Ocean Front. AND what's more, it's for a good cause!
For a fun filled October 2nd Sunday afternoon, Click here to RSVP to the evite and register online.
If you can't participate in the walk, Please consider pledging a donation for the walk. Click here for a Walk Pledge. Go on, your good deed for the day is just a click away! :-)
Please email this information to your friends and family and help spread the word about CRY 'Child Relief and You'.
Thank you for showing that you care and extending your support either by pledging a donation or by registering for the walk. - On behalf of the CRY SoCal Team
Please note that this participation is completely voluntary. [a.k.a - act now! :-) ]
Friday, September 23, 2005
Over rated?????
But , when my pal mentioned about the Ten biggest ideas of the world....The ten biggest things of the philosophical world would surely include NON-VIOLENCE. Now, this is one concpet which boils me. Does any one know the idea behind being non-violent? It is to stop and avoid BLOOD,GORE, and of course VIOLENCE all together.But, who was the creator of NON-VIOLENCE??? The most violent, arrogant, frustrating Gandhi. He surely wasnt using non-violence to curb violence.He was using it as a weapon to get india free. And killed so many so many people who believed him like god and showed their head to the british cannons without protesting. (Including Gotse's family).
Now, the bottom line: i know people with raised eye-brows telling me " But the britishers werent right".... All right! If gandhi was a man who believed in PEACE he must have tried convincing the britishers by talking to them.Not BY frustrating and irritating a tiger(Th british) and make them Kill more and make them blood thristy. Okey! If only gandhi had solved all the issues with non-violence VERY GUD! India becmae INDIA AND PAKISTAN. Family man Gotse became familyless Murderer Gotse........
I am not criticisng Gandhi here...I am just telling u Non-Violence ( as a weapon) is not a solution for EARTH 2050....Non-violence must be preached TO EVERY ONE(EVERY ONE in this earth)...and not used by one community to frustrate another community.....
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Imagine there's no heaven,
It's easy if you try,
No hell below us,
Above us only sky,
Imagine all the people
living for today...
Imagine there's no countries,
It isnt hard to do,
Nothing to kill or die for,
No religion too,
Imagine all the people
living life in peace...
Imagine no possesions,
I wonder if you can,
No need for greed or hunger,
A brotherhood of man,
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world...
You may say Im a dreamer,
but Im not the only one,
I hope some day you'll join us,
And the world will live as one.
-John Lennon-
* Probably the best anti-war song ever written.
Monday, September 19, 2005
24 things to always remember
2. You are unique and one of a kind.
3. Your life can be what you want it to be.
4. Take the days just one at a time.
5. Count your blessings, not your troubles.
6. You will make it through whatever comes along.
7. Within you are so many answers.
8. Understand, have courage, be strong.
9. Do not put limits on yourself.
10. So many dreams are waiting to be realized.
11. Decisions are too important to leave to chance.
12. Reach for your peak, your goal and you prize.
13. Nothing wastes more energy than worrying.
14. The longer one carries a problem the heavier it gets.
15. Do not take things too seriously.
16. Live a life of serenity, not a life of regrets.
17. Remember that a little love goes a long way.
18. Remember that a lot … goes forever.
19. Remember that friendship is a wise investment.
20. Life's treasure are people together.
21. Realize that it is never too late.
22. Do ordinary things in an extraordinary way.
23. Have hearth and hope and happiness.
24. Take the time to wish upon a star.
The world's 10 biggest ideas
17 September 2005
NewScientist.com news service
Certain questions define the way we see the world. How did the universe begin? What is matter made of? What shaped our planet? How did the amazing diversity of life arise? We take many of the answers for granted, but maybe we shouldn't.
When we asked 10 of the biggest names in science to explain the significance of their discipline we were surprised by their response: who would have thought understanding quantum theory was relevant to the abortion debate? Or that a diamond ring can take you back to Pangaea? Set your mind spinning with our guide to the World's 10 Biggest Ideas...
1. The big bang
2. Evolution
3. Quantum mechanics
4. The theory of everything
5. Risk
6. Chaos
7. Relativity
8. Climate change
9. Tectonics
10. Science
[*] the full article is for full subscribers only. I'll make it available at the CosmicCode.
Saturday, September 17, 2005
What's in a name?
Once upon a time,
Lived the legendary Ruffs
Who embraced a life of crime,
Of fraud, deception and bluffs.
They had only one desire,
Which was to be known for aeons,
As being a notch higher,
Than the immortal Corleones.
David Ruff, the grand old man,
Had been the first to take the plunge,
To start building a Mafia Clan,
Creating polished crime from grunge.
David had an able son,
His only successor named Dustin.
For his dad, he'd wield the gun,
Without a single question.
Though the Ruffs soon grew in stature,
They had a fear, leaving them feeling riled.
They began to panic about their future,
When Dustin grew older, still without a child.
Finally one day, Dustin's efforts paid off, :)
And brought the Family euphoric joy.
The Grand Old Man could finally laugh
In happiness, looking at the baby boy.
The family decided to name him
While David was still in town.
The old man, acting on a whim,
Named him after Dan Brown.
That was when tragedy struck,
And the Old Man realised his mistake.
He'd landed his family in deep muck,
With family prestige at stake!
But alas, the damage was done,
The kid, as suggested, was named.
A terrible thing to do to his grandson,
The Old Man felt ashamed.
David was filled with sorrow and dread,
A sense of shame overwhelming enough,
To make him wish he were dead,
After having named the kid, DAN D. RUFF!!
Children of 2005...Leaders in 2050
There are numerous non profit organizations working to help under privileged Children.
As my first post on Earth2050, I would like to present CRY - Child Relief And You America Inc., that is working to restore the basic rights of Children. Find out about CRY America Inc.
Show your support for Child Rights NOW!
CRY America Inc. is organizing Walk 2005, a fundraiser in 6 cities across the United States. Find out more about CRY America Walk 2005. Please let your friends who live in these cities know so that they have the opportunity to be part of this noble cause.
Not able to participate in the Walk? You can still help through Walk Pledges.
Dream a little dream for me...
Children of 2005, Leaders in 2050.
Friday, September 16, 2005
History X
Have anyone been to the Angkor Wat or the ancient ruins in Greece? Please share your experience and photo's.
P/s: Welcome to all the new team members and please invite your friends to join along. Please forgive us for any inconvenience as a result of changes in the blog template, were still tweaking to have a standard and nice 2050 template. And when you post in the site, please DONT align the text to 'Justify Full', just leave it with the 'Left' alignment. Thank you.
Why stop with 2050?
If any of you would like to continue this into the more distant future...say, 50,000 years...you may want to spill some e-ink at this site. It's the KEO Project, which essentially is a mega-blog that will be put into a satellite and launched into a long-term trajectory, to return to Earth in approximately 50 millenia. Yowza.
My personal feelings about the KEO Project are that it will be lucky to come to fruition, luckier still to survive 50K years in space, even luckier to be recovered. Its launch date has already been pushed back several years, giving the impression that it may turn into vaporware. The satellite is a passive object with no energy usage, so how our descendants will even know it's up there, or that it has returned, or where it will land (70% chance it'll hit the ocean), is anyone's guess. Still, it's a very interesting idea, and a good twist on the ol' time-capsule concept.
So what would you say to the people of 50,000 years into the future? Imagine how far we've come in the past 50 millenia and you might get an idea how utterly alien the world will be then. In 50,000 years it is virtually inconceivable that any nation now in existence would still exist then. Ditto for religions and languages. In 50,000 years no one will have any idea who George Bush, Jesus Christ, or any other name known to us now is. In 50,000 years humanity will reach unimaginable heights and suffer innumerable cataclysms. Civilizations will rise and fall multiple times. Perhaps in that time (I'm hoping much, much sooner--as in my lifetime) humans will learn to overcome our biological limits, our petty squabbles, and our Earthbound status.
I think in 50,000 years the human race may be utterly alien to us now, physically, culturally, linguistically, technologically, etc. But I am optimistic that in one form or another, we'll still be around. Here's hoping.
P.S. Thanks GP for the invite!
Thursday, September 15, 2005
To Restore the Pagoda tree
Many people know that India was the richest country in the world, in terms of culture as well as economy before the Mid-Easterners and Europeans ravaged through India. People searched for ways to reach India only for the treasure in the form of Gold it had in abundance. They were not only very much successfull in that, whereas they also acted as agents in suppressing the glorious Indian culture.
Today even in India we are having tough time accepting what this Indian culture is !! Thanks to Adengappa, fellow blogger for bringing into light this Article here. Its got loads of information on how these traitors from the west succeeded in satisfying their selfish greed at the cost of civilization.
It has been estimated that the total amount of treasure that the British looted from India had already reached £1,000,000,000 (£1Billion) by 1901. Taking into consideration interest rates and inflation this would be worth close to $1,000,000,000,000 ($1Trillion) in real-terms today.
The invaders discovered that as long as Indians holded on to their tradition it would be difficult to exploit the wealth from this country. A small peek into the education system as analysed by the britishers in ancient India is breathtaking. During a survey taken in 1822, Bengal presidency had 1 lakh schools, there was not a single village in Madras without a school and the education system was based on the highly intelligent sanskrit language handled by qualified brahmins. In present day because of the western influence, the brahmins are oblivious of their system of living.
In one of his letters to his Dad, Lord Macaulay writes
"Our English schools are flourishing wonderfully; we find it difficult to provide instruction to all. The effect of this education on Hindus is prodigious. No Hindu who has received an English education ever remains sincerely attached to his religion. It is my firm belief that if our plans of education are followed up, there will not be a single idolater among the respected classes 30 years hence. And this will be effected without our efforts to proselytize; I heartily rejoice in the prospect'
The end result is that the world understands that the Brits made the Indians civilized. What kind of information do we written in the history texts. Now there are great people who have testimonials for the Indian culture. Indian culture is a serious study in the west. People are exploring the fields of Yoga, Indian scriptures, occult practices and Philosophy.
Its the duty of each and every sincere Indian to live upto the ideals and restore the Pagoda tree.
Where Will I Be in 2050?
One thing's for sure: GP will be a wise old man who's been to Mars and back.
That Something....
Now I know there is problem in not writing precisely....Most of u did not get the message. And some extra ordinary, obnoxious reactions....But there was something really striking here.
Ekantha saying..... "And when something doesn't just belong to you ". I hope she wasn't reffering to the earth.But,Unfortunately she was. And that was the most funniest thing.
When there is a something called A. And some other thing called B uses it and B is the only thing using it. Imagine, A might be a mighty,powerful thing, But without B. I dont think it matters whether A existed or not.
Similar analogy. I dont think there is in any way the earth doesnt belong to us.Imagine an earth without us (and other living things). Meaningless. The sole purpose of earth is to house living things.
What I am trying to tell u here is, The earth doesn't want u to take care of it. All it wants is for U take care of urself(I know we could very well do off without ozone depleting and global warming and stuff)...But that is the next issue.' Man for man' is the sole purpose of living. The earth has lived so many years and will live till the expanding universe and sun suck it. So I don't think all these small problems man causes to earth bothers it(Unless it is a problem for man himself).
That is exactly why I wanted man to spend on research and fundamentals...Read this (Another striking issue).
Yes! Accepted ekanta we need to be careful. But all we need to be is careful and Not too careful.
A fictional book on 2050
Enthusiasts are preodering the book which is due to hit the bookshops around early November.
Click here to know more.
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Beholding the candle.......
Isn't this a time for all fears to be fully shun
Life is a candle that burns on both its sides
One lights future and other, the past it hides
As time merges the future, present and past
Take it in your stride while it moves so fast
Let us await a new world of endless smiles
Every step of ours towards the victory miles
Let there be toast and wine and a content sigh
let the world take a step towards a spirited high
Let us all together hope for a better world and a better place to live as we make our journey towards 2050
Thanks GP for the invite
Thursday, September 08, 2005
World is not even near ENOUGH
Yes!Disaster management,Risk management, etc. yes! Upto some extent....But please dont make these things an issue.Every body knows they are dying, Every body knows the earth is dying.....Do u live all ur life in the hospital....Not walking on the roads because u will meet up with an accident...Not u take those small risks to make small meaning to these lives....Not like shakespeare who sits under the tree and researches and death and writes down (WE WILL ALL DIE THERE IS NO MEANING IN LIFE)....And lives...hahahahahahahahahaha......Let us all work on education,Relation, Men and find bliss from life..Let us all live life....Probably we should get back to investing money on Research and IT(as much as we did on two years back)...And put the remaining money into what MIGHT happen and what not WILL happen......
I am sorry if i did not communicate what i wanted to...mostly dont....For those of u who got the meaning....Well and gud
Leaps of an young nation, India!
From 5000 to 6000 Sensex, took 118 days, from 6000 to 7000, it took 216 days and from 7000 to 8000 it has taken just a couple of days less than 80! It may be odd that the sensex has gone to new level, given the rising inflation and surging oil prices after the devastation caused by hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, USA. But, Sensex and Indian Economy, both are on the rise, indication of the strong growth rate of India, in the past few years. Considering all the current developed nations and camparing them, one would easily understand that India, with a short history of independence of just 58 years has come a long way trying to be on par with those nations on all fields of technological advancements as well as economic growth. And, it has a long way to go, on its positive note today.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Prisoners in their own country
Is there a country which can withstand mother natures fury?
In the wake of Katrina, just 9 months after the tsunami - there's a sparing difference. In one we saw ppl coming together, acting as fast and tough as possible, governments actually trying to make a difference. Then we heard cries, promises and taunts that we Asians weren't doing a good job of having precautions set. And what did world class precautions help people of New Orleans? Nothing.
Despite knowing there was a huge calamity, not enough was done. Despite just seeing what nature can do, just 9 months back, nothing was done. Despite knowing in dire, all help must be utilised, nothing was done.
Not getting enough help - hungry victims were shot and called looters; waiting to be saved in vain - a women died, with her, hope went as well.
Did we actually learn anything from the tsunami?
Prisoners in their own country, god bless them. May the trapped be rescued soon.
Ps : Wrote this yesterday, wanted to post it later but read Uma's.
Monday, September 05, 2005
How To Change the World by 2015: The Millennium Development Goals
While we have a 45 year goal for the 2050 Project, the Earth Institute at Columbia U has underlined a project to the year 2015 called the Millenium Development Goals. Among others, the goals are to reduce poverty, ensure universal primary education, gender equality, reducing child mortality, improving maternal health, combating AIDS and other dangerous diseases and environmental sustainability. (click on the link above and head to the page to view the goals in detail)
[+] The Earth Institute
[+] The UN Millennium Project
[+] The Millennium Village Project
[+] The Earth Institute Crosscutting Themes
Thursday, September 01, 2005
2050 - An age without censorship?
Censorship. everybody hates it. Everybody seems to want it.
Censoring: counterintelligence achieved by banning or deleting any information of value to the enemy.
Source: Google Definition function.
Censoring doesn't and has never had a good track record is doing what it is supposed to do, prevent damaging content from getting to sensitive people.
As the definition above shows, censoring is just a tool in the hands of the powerful, used and abused in order to further the ambitions of the powerful.
Censorship as a concept is essentially biased towards the powerful and exists everywhere, in all kinds of media, from newspapers to books, from TV to cinema. Even the mobile content that is supposed to be on the "internet", so to speak, is censored.
What is the last frontier against this hypocritical concept of censorship? An immediate answer would be the Internet, of course. But is that really true? Can you publish anything you want on the Internet and not be censored (have your page removed, threatened etc.)?
The answer is a resounding NO. Here is the most recent example of repressive censorship.
And as always, here is a way to bypass the censorship.
Let us hope that 2050 sees an enlightened society that doesn't see the need to censor its citizens.


text:
I've picked up some of the Whitworths Full of Super range before (the cayenne flaxseed crisps were very moreish) and so decided to give the coconut raw bars a go as well. I've become a lot more conscious about what I eat and am increasingly picking vegan options for snacking made with natural, wholesome ingredients as frankly there's just as much choice nowadays and without dairy it just has to be better for the planet.
This is a mix of:
Coconut flakes (25%), sunflower seeds (22%), agave nectar, almonds (10%), cashews (10%), buckwheat, golden flax seeds (3%), chia seeds (0.6%), vanilla, quinoa, acai.
So all things I recognise and feel good about putting in my body. The bar is gluten free with no soy and suitable for vegetarians but also has no dairy or eggs in the ingredients so also okay for vegans (although there is risk of contamination). Sugar as we all know is not good and impressively this bar has less than 10g sugars in total all from unrefined sugars.
It's quite high in calories (245) and fat but you would expect that from nuts, seeds and coconuts but it does also mean you get nearly 7g of natural plant based protein, a really good source of fibre (almost 6g!) and it contains 34% of your vitamin B12 of the day, which is something those avoiding animal products can struggle to get enough of in their diets.
What I like about these raw bars is that Whitworths make two smaller bars in each pack so you can eat them in two sittings if you like, which makes it last longer. They're fairly filling and after lunch, I find one bar is enough to curb a sweet craving.
These are much more solid than say a Nakd bar with a sturdier, thicker texture and feel more substantial. It's a little sweet with a really strong coconut flavour, which you would expect. It does taste quite raw and wholefoods-esque rather than the more mainstream options like Nakd but nutritionally this probably holds up better and contains less sugar. The coconut flavour is very full on and might not be to everyone's taste, especially if you're used to sweetened fake coconut in things like Bounty or sugary coconut yogurts but I really enjoyed it.
The only thing that stops this being a regular to my snack bar box is the price. £1.50 is a lot for one bar and even on £1 is still much more expensive than a lot of other options out there. For a big well known company like Whitworths I would expect these to be more accessible - there are loads of bars in Holland and Barrett cheaper than this. Nakd Bars are also much cheaper and offer multipacks too so this is kind of where it falls down. It's a very nice bar and nutritionally good but also rather pricey.
Price: £1.50 (bought on £1 promo at Tesco)
Bought at: Tesco
Per Bar: 245 calories, 16.4g fat, 6.4g sat fat, 9.9g sugars, 5.7g fibre, 6.9g protein


text:
Hey Everyone! I've been meaning to update this blog but I kept putting it off, I believe I shared with you all before, I'm a huge procrastinator. I'm really going to try and do better with updating you all. A few days after posting my last entry, I found the words above on Facebook which turned my whole attitude around. I've decided that I'm going to take advantage of this opportunity and enjoy it. I'm sure that there are many other people who would like to be in my position right now.
I keep up with the Facebook groups in hopes of meeting up with new people. On this particular day a woman posted that she'd just arrived in Abu Dhabi the day before, and was looking to connect with other people. I commented on her post and so did a few others, we arranged to meet that same day before dinner. I'm so glad I reached out to her and got out of my apartment. Everyone exchanged numbers with promises to stay connected. Cheers to making new friends!
P.S. If you read my blog titled Day 17, I fixed the videos that were on there.
Until next time!


text:
While crowds gathered along Baxter and Bardstown Road to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, The Back Door took advantage of their prime location in Mid-City Mall to do some good for animals in need. From 1 p.m. to 3 a.m. 20 percent of all sales were generously donated to The Arrow Fund. A silent auction was organized to supplement the donation with a notable sponsorship from Tito's Vodka.
Photos by Bill Wine.


text:
Weather forecast
River Gee County
River Gee County
River Gee County is situated in , Liberia. Original name (with diacritics) of the place is River Gee County. Geonames-ID: 2593120. River Gee County maps, photos and images from google. Read wikipedia articles about and around River Gee County. Other places near River Gee County. More information about River Gee County. This placemark was added 2010-12-02.
Wikipedia articles River Gee County
Photos River Gee County
Photos provided by Panoramio. Photos provided by Panoramio are under the copyright of their owners
- Latitude: 5.25
- Longitude: -7.91667
- Altitude: 306
- Region: River Gee County, Liberia.
- Time Zone: Africa/Monrovia.
- Population : 0
- Geonames-ID: 2593120


text:
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Cocktail: Over 200 of the Best
Publisher:Hamlyn (UK)
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text: Katie Price has once again apparently insulted her ex-husband Alex Reid publicly - and he hasn't taken it lying down. Price appeared on yesterday's (December 16) Loose Women and made the jibes while talking about an encounter she had with actor Eddie Redmayne. "I met Eddie Redmayne at a party," she said, "I was talking to him about The Danish Girl and I said he played it really well because it reminded me of someone I knew." [Alex and Katie in 2010] Fellow panellist Kaye Adams then mentioned the topic of cage fighting, just in case it wasn't clear enough already who Price was on about. Reid responded to the insults via a post on Instagram - although we're not sure whether he tagged an inactive Katie Price fan account on purpose or by mistake. @MissKatiePrice would think in 6yrs you'd of got bored talking about me.Theres a reason why you have no real friends Your a spiteful bully! #bully #cyberbully #harrassment #letitgo #gossipgirl A post shared by Alex Reid (@alexreidofficial) on Dec 16, 2016 at 12:38pm PST The post reads "@MissKatiePrice would think in 6yrs you'd of got bored talking about me.Theres a reason why you have no real friends "Your a spiteful bully! #bully #cyberbully #harrassment #letitgo#gossipgirl [sic]." About ten hours after the Instagram post, Reid then uploaded a video to Twitter when he was in a calmer mood: Don't let bullies bring you down.Turn negative emotions into something positive. It's training time positive energy 4 all 👊@alexreidpt pic.twitter.com/IyVPX0Vgre — Alex Reid (@AlexReid) December 17, 2016 "Didn't sleep well last night," he said. "Had a lot on my mind. Katie Price has been slandering my name again which is horrible, don't want that. "I'm gonna go the gym... gonna work out that frustration and use it for something positive." Reid also used the video to promote a brand of coffee, his website and the pantomime he is currently appearing in, just in case you were wondering what he is up to nowadays. Want up-to-the-minute entertainment and tech news? Just hit 'Like' on our Digital Spy Facebook page and 'Follow' on our @digitalspy Twitter account and you're all set.


text:
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August 7, 1984
Geoffrey E. WOODFIELD
Margaret M. HECKLER, Secretary of Health and Human Services and United States of America, Department of Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration
The opinion of the court was delivered by: WEINER
WEINER, District Judge.
This action was brought by plaintiff against his employer, the Social Security Administration (a component of the Department of Health and Human Services) alleging age discrimination as a result of his demotion on May 3, 1981. Plaintiff brings his action under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 ("ADEA"), 29 U.S.C. § 621, et seq. Trial was held before this court sitting without a jury. Upon consideration of the evidence, exhibits presented at trial and the post-trial memoranda submitted by the parties, we conclude that age was not the determinative factor in plaintiff's demotion, and therefore find for the defendant.
Plaintiff, Geoffrey E. Woodfield, was born on July 20, 1925. He was hired as a Claims Authorizer Trainee, level GS-7, by the Mid-Atlantic Program Service Center ("MATPSC") of the Social Security Administration ("SSA") on August 19, 1973. This position ultimately leads to the position of Claims Authorizer ("CA"), grade GS-10, to which the plaintiff was promoted on September 14, 1975. (See Defendant's Proposed Findings of Fact, number 1, and Plaintiff's Proposed Findings of Fact, number 1).
The principal function of the MATPSC is to adjudicate and pay Social Security claims which cannot be handled by the local district offices. The responsibility of the CA is to review and authorize claims for benefits under Titles II and XVIII of the SSA. The position is technical in nature and requires a thorough knowledge of the Social Security Act, and applicable laws and regulations. Such expertise is required because the CA "makes the final determination on almost all categories of claims cases which directly affect the beneficiaries involved." Defendant's Trial Exhibit No. 6, Social Insurance Claims Examiner (Retirement), Part IIA.
In his function as a CA the plaintiff was assigned to a module. A module is the basic structural office unit within the MATPSC and contains approximately fifty employees in approximately fourteen different positions. Each module, of which there are thirty, is under the direction of a module manager and two assistant managers. Six modules, all doing indentical work and support functions, compose a section. A Section Manager and a Deputy Section Manager are responsible for the direction of each section.
At the time relevant to plaintiff's claim, he was assigned to Module 14 which was a component of Section 3. During that time, the personnel holding the above supervisory positions and their respective ages were: (1) Section 3 Manager, Harry Christopher, age 48; (2) Deputy Section 3 Manager, Nathan Soltman, age 59 (prior to his appointment as Deputy Manager, he was Manager of Module 14); (3) Manager of Module 14, George Donnelly, age 31 (Donnelly succeeded Soltman as Manager); and (4) Assistant Module 14 Manager, Elsie Walker, age 53 (Walker was assigned to Module 14 in June 1979 and was plaintiff's immediate supervisor).
CAs are the highest ranking technical employees in the module. Allocation of work among various CAs within a module is accomplished by assigning each CA responsibility for all cases within a certain range of "terminal digits" of social security numbers. With this system one CA is left over who is referred to as a "floater." The floater's function is to take over work of any CA who is absent or whose work is "backed up." The remaining CAs get their daily work from a location called Technical Process Claims Authorization ("TPCA") which is continually replenished with new cases by clerks from an area called Module Backlog Claims Authorization ("MBCA").
The workflow into Module 14 begins with pre-screening. Three CAs take turns performing this function on a daily basis. The pre-screener examines all incoming work and removes all high-priorities which he routes to TPCA (thus, these cases completely bypass MBCA), disposes of cases that can be completed very quickly and routes the remaining cases to the screener. This entire process takes one hour per day or less. The process was invented by George Donnelly and unique to Module 14. Plaintiff claims that he was never selected as a pre-screener by Donnelly or his assistant.
The next level of workflow input is screening. New cases are screened every day by a CA assigned on a rotation basis. The process requires the screener to examine all incoming work and complete all cases taking five minutes or less to dispose of. This process clears 50-60% of the incoming cases. The remaining cases are routed to MBCA. The plaintiff claims that he was never selected as a screener by Donnelly or his assistant.
The CA takes his daily work from TPCA tubs. The tubs are sorted by terminal digits which correspond to those assigned the CAs. The floater takes his cases from whichever tubs are most full.
Review of each CA's accuracy and productivity is accomplished by means of a "sample." The section office schedules the review and informs the Module Manager of the day on which the sample is to be taken. The Manager or Assistant Module Manager picks up all work completed by the CA on that particular day and forwards it to the section office. The work is then assigned to a Claims/Recovery Technical Assistant ("CRTA") for review.
Once certification requirements for a CA have been met, the CA is required to maintain that level of proficiency. Defendant's Exhibit No. 3, Page 12 of 44. The relevant requirements are an 86-88% range of accuracy with the completion of the equivalent of 13 to 15 routine cases in an 8 hour day. Plaintiff's Exhibit No. 2, Page 2 of 28. Defendant's Exhibit No. 3, Page 11 of 44. Cases are classified as routine, moderate or complex according to guideline set. Defendant's Exhibit No. 3, Pages 40-44.
The CRTA produces a "Quality Evaluation -- Individual Case" form for each case contained in the sample. Defendant's Exhibit No. 3, Page 42 of 44. Each case is classified by the CRTA as routine, moderate or complex. Also notation is made if the case is especially time consuming. Id. The CRTA then evaluates each case to determine whether any deficiencies or inefficiencies are present. A deficient rating for any particular case represents an error in the process performed by the CA that "did not produce the results intended and the defective result has an adverse effect . . . on the claimant; or on the Trust Fund." Defendant's Exhibit No. 3, Page 25 of 44. Examples of such errors include: (1) incorrect payment amount; (2) incorrect potential payment amount; (3) improper or overlooked beneficiary notices; (4) incomplete or overlooked claims development required to support the claim determination; and (5) incomplete documentation. Id. An efficient rating for any particular case represents an instance "where policies or procedures associated with the adjudication, effectuation and maintenance of claims were misapplied, but the result of the process was ultimately correct or had no effect on the amount paid. . . ." Id. at 26 of 44. The major characteristic of this type error is delay or need for rehandling. Id. All such determinations are explained by the CRTA on the "Quality Evaluation -- Individual Case" form. Id. at 42 of 44.
After each case is reviewed, the CRTA prepares a "Quality Evaluation Summary" form. Defendant's Exhibit No. 3, Page 43 of 44. The CRTA then computes an accuracy percentage for the entire sample which is derived from guideline set forth in the MATPSC Assessment Guide. Defendant's Exhibit No. 3, Pages 11-14.
The CA is then informed of the results of the sample. This is usually done by the CA's manager within the module. Oral Deposition of Elsie Walker, Page 13. If any of the CRTA's findings are disputed, the CA can appeal to the CRTA who performed the sample or through channels to the ...
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Sunday, January 31, 2010
Havin some fun!
Today we went on a little adventure to downtown PHX for a mini shoot with my dear friend & fellow photography, Stacy. I had the opportunity to shoot Stacy & her hubby, Joe & she took some of us. It was so much fun to let loose and be in the shoes of my clients! I realized I like being behind the lens WAY more than in front of it but I must admit, it was fun playing model for a bit:)
Posted by Britt at 9:35 PM No comments:
Saturday, January 30, 2010
gotta love those palms!
These beautiful trees lured me to move to Arizona when I was 18 & they are still one of my favorite things about this place! I recently found out they aren't native here, in fact they have all been imported but that doesn't change the fact that they are still one of the first things that comes to mind when I think about the gorgeous state I live in...after all aren't we all imported in one way or another!?
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Friday, January 29, 2010
Mr. Handy in the making...
Today's image is a tribute to my oh so amazing husband! He has been working so hard on our home to make it more organized & comfortable. His most recent project was organizing our pit of a garage. Him and grandpa Jack spent an evening on it and let me tell you, it is the cleanest garage around! Now if only it would stay that way!?
Thank honey for all you do around here...you're definitely earning your keep;)
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Thursday, January 28, 2010
I met up with my best friend from childhood today for lunch. She got engaged Tuesday & I couldn't help but reminisce over the hours & hours we've spent talking about our future husbands. Since the 6th grade we began dreaming about the guy that would someday come into our lives and sweep us off our feet. Of course we had to go through a few "testers" to realize what we wanted in our future mate. We would call each other late at night while in high school balling our( heavily made-up) eyes out, we took turns driving across Bismarck, ND to comfort each other when we thought the world was over because our boyfriend broke up with us or even worse, when we decided to break up with them only to realize we just made the worst decision of our life...or so we thought at the time!
Well I think Jess would agree that all those tears and heart breaks were well worth it, we have both found the perfect mates & for this I could not be more grateful. Jess & Cory are one of those couples you love to be around because they share a fun, charismatic, love for one another and anyone can tell by looking at them that they are head over heels in love.
I can't wait to be your Matron (sounds really old & frumpy) of honor my dear friend! Congratulations on the beginning of a great journey!
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Wednesday, January 27, 2010
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Tuesday, January 26, 2010
2010 Grad!
Emily & I had a fun shoot today! Her smile is one of the most warm & flawless I've ever seen. Her mom accompanied her to her senior shoot & now I know where she gets her good looks!
Posted by Britt at 5:10 PM No comments:
Monday, January 25, 2010
Snapped this image while I was checking out the venue of an upcoming wedding I'm photographing. Gotta love God's gift to the world...us photographers especially appreciate it!
Posted by Britt at 9:12 PM 1 comment:
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Meet our little "ragamuffin". He captured my heart the moment I laid eyes on him and I still am unbelievably biased in thinking he's the most amazing dog on the planet. He doesn't know any tricks (unless you count the occasional sit when I have a treat visible), he barks too much, and he is overly codependent BUT he is my little ball of fluff and I happen to find him charming. It's amazing how much joy our four legged friends add to our life...along with an occasional accident, and a chewed pair of underwear!
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Saturday, January 23, 2010
Meet Tiffany & BABY!
I experienced my very first maternity shoot today and LOVED every second of it! I mean could there be a more stunning mama-to-be than this girl!? I didn't think so either...Thanks Tiffany & George, can't wait to meet the little man:) More images to come later.
Posted by Britt at 10:24 PM No comments:
Friday, January 22, 2010
My YEAR in photos...Yes folks, that's 365 days meaning 365 images!
I had this crazy idea the other day to capture at least one image everyday for the next year. Welp! I'm going for it! You may be asking yourself "why the heck would she want to lug her camera bag around with her everywhere for the next year"... okay, you probably weren't asking yourself that but I'm going to answer it anyways...
Some of you know that I started a photography business which launched in June of 2009. Since then I have been all work and NO play! I have been shooting for others (which don't get me wrong I love, and I love how it helps pay the bills) but neglecting the reason I started shooting in the first place, because I love photography and the memories it captures! I was saddened when I realized after we hosted our entire family for Thanksgiving that I didn't take a SINGLE picture, NADA!! Why?! Because I put photography in the "business" section of my brain instead of the "Leisure" side (it's a known fact these are the actual names of the parts of your brain;)) and I guess I've had a difficult time balancing the two!
So I am on a mission to document this year using photos, I hope you will come along for the ride! I love you all and am so blessed to have your support!
I hope you enjoy the first few photos...I'm posting a few from today to make up for lost time this month (my vision came to me late)...you understand!
Posted by Britt at 3:53 PM 5 comments:
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Senior's Special
One of my favorite types of shoots are SENIOR portraits! Amy was an absolute gem to hangout with and shoot...she is bubbly, corky, and obviously gorgeous! She wrote in and won a free shoot for being a positive role model at her high school, being a good student and peer does pay off;)
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Monday, January 18, 2010
On this rare gray rainy day in AZ I am tempted to sit in my bed all day and read. Nothing is more relaxing to me than being all cozied up with a good book and a hot drink. I am fighting of this temptation by forcing myself to sit in front of the computer and do something "productive"...like writing on my blog...okay so I've accepted the fact that I am getting nothing accomplished in the real world for the next 15 minutes.
The book I'm reading is entitled "Committed" and it is written by the author of "Eat, Pray, Love", Elizabeth Gilbert. She is a gifted writer which is the main reason I picked it up and also because I delight in her wit and charm and somehow feel she is my long lost sister. She challenges the issue of matrimony and has a skeptics take on the whole bit. A recovering divorcee she openly admits she is hardened to the idea of marriage based on her failed experience and she has every right to be.
Well of course she meets a man and falls in love...now what!? Well you can always cohabitate and pretend to be somewhere in the middle of marriage, and casual dating...statistics show this is not always a good decision ( I hate to use stats but my personal feelings on shacking up are a lot more complicated). Well in the author's case the government made the decision for them and they must get married so her lover can move to the U.S. She is beyond scared of the idea and at first hates the idea of being married again. But why!?
This book should be entitled "The Skeptics Guide to Not Only Getting Hitched But Staying". I have been challenged in my own view on marriage and what commitment truly is. One of my favorite comments in the book is "The only thing that is consistent with marriage is change". You will change, your spouse will change, and everyone around you will be in a constant state of change. Even marriage itself will continue to change, but the way people think about marriage is probably the only thing that remains the same. By this I mean the EXPECTATIONS of what marriage should be and look like. We're entering choppy waters folks!
I personally went into my own marriage with the mindset that the sex would be great and that I would always be in the mood to rip John's clothes off...wrong. That my husband would always be romantic and be in constant thought of what he could do for me next...wrong. That a large part of my happiness would come from my husband and he should always try to make me happy...WAY wrong, thankfully. I knew not everyone had marriages like that but I was going to be different and we were going to have a "great marriage", whatever that is!? I realized quickly that my idea of this holy matrimony thing was way off and I couldn't be more relieved! This book has made me dissect these notions I had and why I had them, afterall, that's how you change your way of thinking is to realize why you thought a certain way in the first place.
I am only half way through the book and have soaked the authors raw and realistic view on marriage up! It is important to stay/be independent in a relationship, to be the creator and dictator of your personal happiness (that is too much to put on one person alone and God forbid anyone put that pressure on YOU), and to NOT expect, expect, expect ( this one I've personally struggled with)! I have already noticed a change in my own marriage and I think I've been a lot easier to be around....well you'd have to ask my hubby on that one!? Anyways this is getting way too long and I doubt anyone will ever read this far ( I don't blame them)! I am still trying to figure this whole being a wife thing out and I have a love/hate relationship with being challenged on it. I hate realizing I am a terrible wife in someways but love having the knowledge and opportunity to make changes in myself! My whole notion of being a wife is being completely rocked too...I will save those thoughts for another day! your welcome.
Posted by Britt at 10:01 AM 4 comments:
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
LOVE this family..;
The Bush boys are two of the most bright eyed, lovable kiddos around! I have had the opportunity to get to know Gina better through our gym and couldn't be more excited about our new found friendship. Here are some pics from their shoot!
Posted by Britt at 1:48 PM No comments:
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
The case of the missing cat is CLOSED...Java is back!
After being away for a week Java was found at a park nearby by a very thoughtful fella who called to tell us. We rushed over there when we got the call and eventually found her. When we spotted her chillin by the park, she was looking at us like "oh you silly people, of course I was okay...being a stray is in my blood"!
Posted by Britt at 9:31 AM 2 comments:
Nick was a lot of fun to shoot and very silly! I didn't mind him laughing because I got some great shots of his natural smile and yes...those heart melting dimples!
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June 11, 2011 (DOHA) — Peace talks between the government and rebel groups are at deadlock as Khartoum refuses to concede on the pending issues with Liberation and Justice Movement (LJM), while talks open the with Justice and Equality movement (JEM) on only two issues.
- Mediator Bassole (L) and Qatar's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Al-Mahmoud walk after a meeting with Sudan President Omar Hassan al-Bashir in Khartoum Nov 27, 2010 - (Reuters)
Over 500 delegates during the last week of May adopted a framework document as basis for peace agreements between the Sudanese government and rebel groups stressing on the need for a comprehensive peace in the restive region of Darfur.
Khartoum and LJM rebels pledged to sign an agreement after finalizing pending issues related to the post of Sudan's vice-president, security arrangements and a referendum that Khartoum said intending to hold in July this year.
JEM welcomed the framework document saying it constitutes a good base for talks, but Khartoum said the adopted text is not open to discussion.
The head of the government delegation at the peace process, Amin Hassan Omer, told the government aligned Sudan Media Centre (SMC) that the Doha document is not negotiable stressing that talks ended with the adoption of the text at the stakeholders conference.
The Sudanese state minister added that they can discuss only two issues with JEM, security arrangements and rebels' participation in power. He further stressed the government refuses any preconditions from the rebel group.
Gibreel Adam Bilal, JEM spokesperson, told Sudan Tribune that they refused a government proposition to hold talks on the two issues.
"We reject talks on JEM political integration only and we told the government and the mediation that we are ready for talks on the six chapters of the peace document," Gibreel said.
He further said the stakeholders conference called for a comprehensive peace process and urged the mediation to implement its resolutions on this respect.
The Sudanese government and the LJM have failed since last November to agree on the referendum, and the allocation of a post of vice-president for Darfur region.
The text of the peace document says the referendum should be held at least one year before the presidential election. Nonetheless, the Sudanese government refuses to delay the plebiscite on Darfur's administrative status, saying the adoption of a permanent constitution implies to conclude this issue as soon as possible.
LJM chief negotiator Tadjadine Bechir Niam told Sudan Tribune that they failed once again in a meeting held yesterday to reach a solution on two pending issues and decided to refer it to the mediation to present a compromise to the two parties.
"The government still refuses to delay the referendum from July. Also, on the security arrangements they retracted from a previous deal and asked to determine the number of rebel combatants to be integrated after verification on the ground for the positions held by LJM," Niam said.
On the issue of the vice-president, the rebel negotiator said they failed to agree on whether the vice-president should be from one of the rebel movements or proposed from their part.
The government said a vice-president would be appointed during the current term from Darfur but refused to include it in the constitution.
The Sudanese government and LJM rebels said they will sign a peace agreement in Doha before the end of June. Also Khartoum said JEM has a delay of three months to finalize a peace agreement before negotiations will be closed definitively.