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Most articles dealing with telephone research focus on what happens once you start calling. However, many, if not most, issues need to be considered and resolved earlier in the process. So let's look behind the curtain at what you need to do before you ever pick up the phone. You have to know in advance what you can say (and can't), who you can call (and shouldn't), what you can offer (and mustn't), and who might be able to help.
First, we must recognize one of the unique characteristics of phone research that seems obvious but that has major implications. Phone research is "public." It leaves a trail. You can search online databases from here to eternity, and no one will ever know — well, except for the bills you may have to pay. Once you hand the results on to clients, they may distribute them however they wish, and they control the "disclosure" that the questions were ever asked and the subject ever researched. Of course, we would always indicate any applicable copyright restrictions and expedite copyright payment when possible. In phone research, because you are developing the information yourself, you have no formal copyright issues to deal with, but you do have "footprint issues," as you'll see below, so I guess there really is no free lunch!
With phone research, on the other hand, the very fact that someone is calling about a topic may expose guarded information or fuel speculation. In every phone call, by definition, you give as well as receive some information. That someone is interested in Product A, Service B, or Executive C can raise red flags and alert people that something is stirring in a particular arena. Because of this, it's critical to understand both how sensitive a topic is and what safeguards you may need to employ when researching it.
In some cases, you actually want to publicize the research as you go along. For example, when looking for senior telecom execs to hire for placement in Romania, you may want the word to go out throughout the Romanian American community, so the "public" factor of phone research becomes a benefit. Or, if you seek ways to help improve disaster relief techniques for the Red Cross, again, if the word going out results in your learning about additional techniques or having unexpected experts contact you — all the better.
On the other hand, if one major airline is considering a new program for its agents, this fact may constitute very competitive information about which it wants to minimize attention. In much of the rest of this article, we'll consider how levels of sensitivity and confidentiality can affect phone research. These issues need to be at the back of your mind throughout any phone project. With that caveat in mind, let's look at specific questions you need to consider.
One more point: Hard-core competitive intelligence research may involve different approaches. While many concerns remain the same, this article doesn't specifically address that area of research.
Sometimes when you call people, they give you loads of information without so much as knowing your name or any information about you and your reason for asking. But other (and sadly, much more frequent) times, the person on the other end of the phone line wants to know: "Who are you? Where are you calling from? Who's funding this project? What do you want to know? What will it be used for?" And you need to be ready to answer!
What information you provide may vary from call to call, depending on what's demanded and what will serve your purposes the best, but you need to know the bottom line of what's acceptable for you to disclose in each of those areas.
These are not the deep philosophical questions from Kant or Hegel (or even 6-year olds asking mom the big questions), but the very practical questions of how to describe yourself during phone research.
My standard opening is, "My name is Risa Sacks, and I'm a researcher up in Massachusetts." A vast majority of the time, that's as much identifying as I do. With the advent of ubiquitous websites and Google-mania, I can often hear the person clicking away at his or her keyboard in the background. Fine with me. In fact, if someone is a bit skittish or reluctant to talk, I offer my website and say, "Would you feel better if you look me up?" since, of course, we all know that if it's online, it must be true. I've consciously designed my website to help people feel comfortable talking to me, as opposed to competitive intelligence websites that often have the opposite effect.
How you describe yourself may vary — are you perhaps a market researcher, an industry analyst, a business consultant, or a librarian? While you can't lie or misrepresent yourself (aka pretext), you can still present yourself in the most favorable light. Which of your possible designations are the people you're calling most likely to speak with? Being a librarian seems to be a great introduction. Who wouldn't be willing to talk to an innocuous, helpful librarian? Hah! Little do they know the modern breed of barracuda librarians that ferret out information with laser focus.
"Where are you from?" can also have a number of possibilities. As in my standard opening, you can really say nothing at all — or something so general as to amount to the same thing. Sometimes, when I'm working as a subcontractor for a research or marketing or law firm, for example, I may choose, or be directed, to use that company's name. "I'm a researcher doing a project for XYZ Information Services" or "for ABC Marketing." Or, if it's for a publication project, even "for Searcher magazine."
Sometimes I'll use the name of the ultimate client, if my client gives me permission and if it will serve me well — "a project for the Red Cross," or Microsoft, or the postal service. In some cases, while talking with the more savvy and/or suspicious people, when I've used the contracting firm's name, they will still want to know "Yes, but who's funding the project? Who's ultimately using or sponsoring it?"
Again, it depends on what I actually know, what will serve me best, and what I am allowed to say. In some cases I honestly don't know who the ultimate client is, which is not always a bad position to be in. "If ignorance is bliss, tis folly to be wise." I can explain that this helps keep the study results "company" or "product" neutral, so that I can't bias the results even unconsciously. If I do know, but am not allowed to say, I tell them that, and explain that this is to keep everyone's responses unbiased.
Sometimes I can't use the company name, but can use some level of description that I've cleared with the client. If I can't say Coke, I may be able to say:
• A soft drink manufacturer
• A player in the beverage industry
• A large user of sugar and sugar substitutes
While each designation goes up a level in abstraction, each might provide a sufficient level of comfort to let the person on the phone speak with me. The more you can disclose, in general, the better chance you will have that someone will speak with you.
If you can't use any level of description, sometimes just confirming a negative can still help — "I can assure you that it's not a company that competes with yours in any way," or "The company doesn't work in North America at all."
If you don't know or generally can't disclose, and the person won't talk under those circumstances, you may just need to move on. As a last option, you might offer to request the information or permission to disclose and re-contact the person if and when you get it.
I had one memorable instance where I was talking to a very senior VP at an auto rental company. He was extremely knowledgeable, but would only talk briefly without knowing the ultimate client. I honestly didn't know the ultimate client's name, but offered to see if I could get it and permission to disclose. Lucky move on my part! It turned out that he was the ultimate client. When I went back and said "I can tell you who the ultimate client is — you are," he was so pleased with our professionalism, the level of questions asked, and the information already gathered, that it turned out to be a winning move. It was one case where not only was "honesty its own reward" but also contributed to great customer relations. I shudder to think what the opposite outcome could have been!
As with the other areas, frequently all you have to say is "I'd like to ask you a few questions about …," or "I'm hoping you can help me understand a bit more about …," whatever the general area is. If someone wants more specific parameters, again, consider what will serve you best with that person and what you are allowed to say. Your answer to this question might be quite varied:
• "General market trends in the use of stainless steel"
• "Your personal experience over the years"
• "Your recommendations for someone who's an expert in this area"
• "Specific figures for last month's prices"
• "Confirmation or clarification of data published in your recent article."
Let the sensitivity of the topic help to shape your response. In a very straightforward or public information situation, you might say, "I'd like the numbers for each kind of Girl Scout cookies you sold in the last drive." If the goal, however, is to find out how the market will respond to red widgets, and red widgets are a not-yet-released, secret, revolutionary technological advance, you might couch your request more obliquely. "We'd like to explore your views on widget aesthetics" and slip red widgets somewhere in the middle of your questions.
How much latitude is there in what information will meet the client's needs? If people won't provide specific numbers, will answers relating to trends or percentages still help? If a person won't talk about his or her own specific company, will comments about the industry in general be acceptable? And, of course, we all know that in talking about generalities, people often tend to really talk about their own situations. Is there information that you can give them and just ask for them to confirm, deny, or correct? Can you give them a number of choices to select from? Or do you need totally unsolicited, open-ended information?
These are all issues you need to clarify with the client, so that once you're on the phone, you can move seamlessly through the call, turning on a dime when necessary to encourage the flow of information.
In this area, there are often two things people want to know — the purpose of the study or interview and where the information will appear or how it will be disseminated. Under the "purpose" part of the query, you might say something along these lines:
• General: "To help understand America's sugar craze"
• More specific to the client: "To help market planning going forward"
• Very specific to the interviewee: "This is part of due diligence for a possible partnership offer."
For the second part of the query, relating to where it will appear or be disseminated, for some people wide recognition is a lure, while others require or prefer anonymity. You need to anticipate to know what possibilities you can offer.
How will the report or information be used?
• For an internal write-up seen by a few senior executives?
• Published in a scholarly journal?
• Released for broader circulation as in a white paper?
Can you offer interviewees any of these prospects:
• Being publicly thanked and acknowledged
• Being kept totally anonymous with their responses aggregated into those of other respondents
• Identified only by some description they find acceptable, e.g., a senior VP at a transportation company or an experienced consultant in the field (although consultants often want to be identified since it benefits their own marketing)
As with other areas, sometimes you only need a negative:
• "I don't know exactly what the use will be, but I do know that it won't be for general publication."
Be prepared to follow through on whatever you do promise. If your client requires each person's identity and some people will only speak anonymously, you may have to decline their input. If you promise that their identity won't leave your office, then you can only provide the agreed upon identifiers to your client. If something changes suddenly in the ultimate use, you may need to get back to the people you interviewed and tell them, "This wasn't for publication when we spoke, but there has been so much interest in the findings, that there will be a published article — would it be all right to identify you?" Or, "What level of identification would be acceptable to you?"
The broader your ability to offer what each respondent wants, the better chance you will have of gathering useful information.
Since phone research leaves a trail and may deal with sensitive information, knowing who you can and, equally importantly, who you can't call is a prime prerequisite.
Clarify with the client the source for the target list:
• If the client provides a list, ideally see specific names, titles, and (oh joy, when available) phone numbers can be included.
• If you generate the targets, are there existing "pools" to start with, e.g., trade associations or attendees at a particular conference?
• Are there categories of people to consider? Do you only want to talk with decision makers at five major companies? Or might industry experts or editors of trade publications provide good overview information and/or good referrals? How about end users? Producers? Distributors? Are headquarter personnel the only ones to approach or could regional and local offices provide better prospects?
As with many other areas we've considered, the broader your world of targets, the better your chances of getting useful information. You may also help educate your client as you suggest possible sources that may not have been considered. This broader view is something you bring to the table.
Also consider the level(s) of people from whom it is acceptable to gather information. Is it top executives or more people on the ground? How far up or down the corporate or organizational ladder can you go? For example, in the travel industry, do you want to talk with the owners, the operations managers, or the reservationists? Each level of person can provide unique information and different perspectives — all of which may prove helpful. You don't, however, want to talk with reservationists if what you need involves major decision makers at each agency. Conversely, if you are looking for the ease of use of a particular program, particularly at peak work times, the reservationists may well know the facts about which the owner is totally clueless.
Who do you need to avoid calling? Is there a specific do not call list for this project of people/companies to specifically refrain from contacting in any way? Or a specific category of people to avoid, such as industry analysts? For example, when you subcontract, the do-not-call types may include the client company, individual competitors, or people who would immediately "guess" the ultimate client. You want to avoid bringing unwanted publicity to the fact that queries are being made.
In some happy situations, people may be required to talk with you, e.g., when interviewing employees to evaluate a coaching and compensation package. At those times, exploit whatever "clout" you have. Will the company send out emails for you? Call their managers? Even set up the appointments for your interviews? Great! Milk it for all it's worth. All you have to offer is the chance to meet their responsibilities.
Of course everyone else should be happy to talk to you, since you're so charming/interesting/compelling and/or they're so bored/lonely/generally talkative. However, since we're still in the real world here, the truth is that you frequently have to entice someone to speak with you.
Sometimes you can appeal to people's better natures. They will be contributing to the wealth of information about a topic or helping a good cause. Other times you can appeal to their egos — their widely acknowledged expert status in the world or their unique knowledge or position. "I'm calling you because you are the world expert in blah blah blah" or "because I read your excellent article …" or "Dr. Jones recommended you as the best source for this kind of information." As we mentioned earlier, both recognition and anonymity may entice people to talk with you, depending on which one is seen as a benefit.
However, if possible, you should try to have other enticements in your back pocket to pull out when needed:
• Executive summary. Can you offer to send them an edited, sanitized version of the study results? This particularly appeals to high-level executives/professionals who like to get information back in return for giving information out.
• "Trading beads" of information. As you go through your research, are you finding nuggets of information you could share with interviewees? Even, "Yes, we've heard that comment frequently before" or, "I just read a report that showed the average up by 70%. Would you like me to send you the URL?" Anything that helps the conversation feel like an exchange of information, rather than a one-way street, can improve the interview. Don't forget to check that it's all right to share this type of general information. Does the client even have any trading beads it can provide you?
• Compensation/honoraria. Treats or plain old money are nice options, if the client agrees to them.
• Honoraria. I've found these particularly useful in medical fields and, in some cases, in the travel and hospitality industries. It tends to have less appeal or effectiveness in corporate executive situations.
• Contributions to a favorite charity. In some cases when offering money directly is inappropriate or ineffective, offering to make a contribution to a favorite charity is a great way to both get information and do some good in the world. This has worked well with different levels of corporate executives, as well as some levels of the health fields.
• "Treats." Sometimes something as simple as an Amazon book coupon or a Starbuck's coffee card can be enough to lure people to participate, or at least to show your appreciation when they do. Whatever you select, make sure it's something that's easy to implement and doesn't add much administrative overhead to the project.
Good research, like charity, often begins at home. That's true especially with phone research in a subject area that's not one of your specialties. While you don't have to be a subject matter expert in a specific area in order to conduct phone research, it helps to "talk the talk," at least a little bit. Is there someone at the client's who is an expert in the area or at least has experience working in that field/topic? Can you spend a bit of time speaking that person before you hit the phones? By talking with a friendly expert first, you might learn that you say "I-triple-E" as opposed to "I-E-E-E," "A-I-I-P" rather than "A-double-I-P," or "Norad" not "N-O-R-A-D." Knowledge of pronunciation, acronyms, basic "insider" jargon can increase both your comfort zone and your professional edge. While it's not necessary to have this experience, it never hurts to ask.
In addition, the friendly expert may be able to suggest names of the publications this target group reads, meetings they attend, associations they belong to, and even provide specific names for you to contact.


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One of the sessions we have in our prep reading is called Reading To Self. We each have our own box of books. Some of the books we have created ourselves and others are from the classroom and the library. Sometimes we read the pictures, sometimes we read the words and sometimes we retell the story. It 'sounds' like a quiet murmur as we all read our books to ourselves. It 'looks' like settled, spacious, comfortable and independent readers. It 'feels' comfy, enjoyable, challenging and proud.
Enjoy looking at some of our preps enjoying their 'Reading to Self' time today.

subset: commoncrawl


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Saturday, 21 March 2015
Brimham Rocks: Local Adventures #1
One of my New Years Resolutions was to get out and about more and start walking and exploring some of the amazing places that are near me. I spend so much time daydreaming and fantasising about all the countries I want to explore and places abroad I want to visit. But there are so many places full of natural beauty right on my doorstep that I don't spend enough time exploring. I'm lucky enough to live in the Yorkshire countryside and only have to look out of my bedroom window to see views of fields, woodland, sheep, cows ect. So I'm making an effort to spend my weekends and days off embracing all that Yorkshire has to offer; from the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors to beaches and seaside towns.
So first up, Danny and I headed off to the National Trust site of Brimham Rocks.
Sunday, 8 March 2015
10 Things to do in Sydney, Australia.
So I have a little bit of an obsessive love for Sydney. It's just such a beautiful, diverse city. It has awe inspiring architecture, amazing views, peaceful parks and gardens, and some of the most famous beaches on the planet. I'm lucky enough to have spent a couple of weeks in Sydney on two separate occasions, and can't wait to get over there again. So here are my top ten things everyone should do when they visit this beautiful Australian city!
Saturday, 7 March 2015
You Me At Six and All Time Low concert!
This was a gig I'd been waiting for for sooooo long. Two of my favourite bands in one concert! They certainly did not disappoint, the music was loud and energetic and the atmosphere in the crowd was amazing. The night was definitely up there in my top three gigs (and I've been to a lot of gigs so that's saying something!)
I've seen both of these bands before. This was my 7th time seeing You Me at Six and 5th time seeing All Time Low. But this time was different and very exciting because it was my first time seeing them in an arena. I've watched these bands play bigger and bigger venues over the years so to see them play in a huge arena with more than 10,000 people all jumping and singing along was an extraordinary experience!
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Boom two year old Flying Artie will have to be as good as the stable thinks he is if he is to win the Group 3 $200,000 Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Prelude (1100m) for the colts and geldings at Caulfield on Saturday from the outside barrier.
Flying Artie has drawn gate sixteen in the capacity field.
Trainer Mick Price has rated Flying Artie very highly following an impressive all the way win in a 1000m Geelong barrier trial on February 1 and Damien Oliver is considering him as his ride in the Group 1 $1.5m Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield on February 27.
"Flying Artie is a really nice horse," Price said.
"I really like him, he's a big scopey horse, he'll definitely get 1200m, so we'll see how he goes next Saturday and fine tune it from there."
Oliver won the Group 3 $150,000 Chairman's Stakes (1000m) at Caulfield last Saturday on stablemate Extreme Choice and was waiting to see how Flying Artie performed this week before making his Blue Diamond Stakes decision.
"We won't make a decision with jockeys until after next Saturday," Price said.
Extreme Choice currently heads the Blue Diamond Stakes market order at Ladbrokes.com.au at $2.40 while Flying Artie is on the third line of betting at $11.
Price will also saddle up China Dream, barrier fourteen with Craig Newitt, and Los Cabos, barrier one with apprentice Michael Dee.
The Peter and Paul Snowden trained Defcon performed well at his race debut and is sure to be improved after running second to Tessera in the Group 3 $150,000 Canonbury Stakes (1100m) at Rosehill on January 30.
The Choisir colt was also out of luck at the barrier draw, coming up with gate thirteen with Blake Shinn taking over from Brenton Avdulla.
The Godolphin owned Cohesion, trained by John O'Shea, has also drawn awkwardly at twelve but has the pace to overcome that after leading all of the way to win the Listed $150,000 Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Preview (C&G) (1000m) at Caulfield on January 26.
Trainer Paul Messara is expecting a better performance from Weatherly this week after the Beneteau colt blew the start on debut before finishing sixth behind Cohesion in the Blue Diamond Preview.
Top Hong Kong based jockey Douglas Whyte takes over from the suspended Craig Williams on Weatherly who has drawn midfield at barrier nine.
Star Turn from the Team Hawkes stable is having his first run back since winning the $150,000 Pierro Plate (1100m) at Randwick on October 24 and has drawn gate eight with Dwayne Dunn taking over from Tommy Berry.
The Lindsay Park Team of David Hayes and Tom Dabernig will be represented by two Fastnet Rock colts first starters Lionhearted and Ocean Grove.
Lionhearted will be ridden by Nicholas Hall and has drawn barrier two while Ocean Grove has Damian Lane in the saddle and will jump from gate seven.
Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Prelude for the colts and geldings field: 1 Power Trip (4), 2 Cohesion (12), 3 Star Turn (8), 4 Bullion Wolf (3), 5 Defcon (13), 6 Capannello (5), 7 Flying Artie (16), 8 El Venetian (15), 9 China Dream (14), 10 Weatherly (9), 11 Los Cabos (1), 12 Ambitious Ex (6), 13 Black Energy (11), 14 Lionhearted (2), 15 Ocean Grove (7), 16 Revolving Door (10).


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Fighting for the PJV – Lisa Sanchez's Ainsley Campbell aka Martha Stewart
Book series: Hanaford Park series
Job: Witch by birth, underworld douchebag slayer by choice
Height: Too friggin' short. Next question…
Weight: Seriously? I mean…really? (Crosses arms over chest and glares with a raised brow)
Hair Color: Mahogany
Eye Color: Hazel
From: Hanaford Park, California
Significant Other: Xan
Signature Move: Um…yeah…I don't like to pigeonhole myself. I've got several kickass moves both on and off the battlefield that serve me well. I suppose, though, since Lisa's forcing me to debase myself by answering all these questions, I might as well give you a little something to chew on. My witchy mojo allows me to cast glamours. You know…make myself or someone else look different than they normally do. Want bigger boobs? Darker hair…that $500 pair of Louboutins you can't afford? I'm so totally your girl. I can also teleport, render myself invisible, and I've got a slammin' power surge I like to knock undead creepers out with as well.
Kill Highlights: I'm a resourceful, girl. While I prefer to send vamps and demons packing via the pointy end of Chuck, my favorite wooden stake (yes, I named my stake. Zip it!), I've been known to blow shit up and kill my targets with flying shrapnel. Also, and really, I'm not sure what this says about me as a person, but I've got a terrible fondness for decapitating zombies.
Enemies: Lucian Gagné, underworld dirtbags, and judgmental haters
Favorite Pastime: Scarfing pastries and coffee, sharpening my wooden stake, and snuggling with my honey, Xan. Not necessarily in that order.
Other Facts: Would rather battle a horde of oozing pus demons than face a throng of frenzied Target shoppers during Christmas rush. A blue-haired lady with a walker once tried to shank me for an electric blanket on super sale. That right there, my friends, is a whole new level of evil. Just sayin'.
Anything else you'd like to add: Okay, so here's the thing. I'm a no-nonsense girl. I tell it like it is. I don't fight fair. I fight to win. I fight to live. I've spent the majority of my existence looking over my shoulder, running from a sick freak with a serious lust for power and blood. My power––my blood. My motto is simple: stake first, and ask questions later. I'm not really sure if that jibes as far as this whole Supernatural Smackdown thing goes, but it's how I roll and I'm not about to change.
Reason for participating in Smackdown: To be honest, I'm not really sure why Lisa forced me to participate in this preternatural pissing match. I've never been one who plays well with others, ahem…Lisa.( Shakes head and frowns.) Bitch has a deep-seated need to humiliate me it seems. Whatever (rolls eyes and sighs.) I may not win any pageants with my sharp wit and winning personality, but I'm the girl you want at your back when things get heavy. I'm like that bad rash you had last summer that wouldn't go away––scrappy, stubborn, and persistent as hell. Come after me and I'll take you out. Come after my loved ones and I'll flay you alive and wear your skin as a party hat. And that's after I park a city bus up the backside of your ass. My loved ones are my life. 'Nuff said.
Hell hath no fury like a witch done wrong. Pissed off and packing an arsenal of witchy mojo, Martha is on the warpath. Determined to avenge the murder of her mother and grandmother, her mission is simple: kill every vampire, demon and underworld bastard she comes across, because one of those hell beasts might be the monster that stole her childhood from her. But when a sexy Latin vamp literally falls from the sky, saving her from becoming an undead Happy Meal, she has no choice but to reassess everything she thinks she knows.
Xan is an anomaly –a vampire born, not turned. A powerful warlock who walks in daylight, Xan spends his days, and nights, watching over Martha, protecting her from Lucian, the blood-sucking monstrosity whose sole mission in death is to drain her dry. Undeniable attraction and the promise of pleasures untold draw the two lovers into a frustrating dance of one step forward, two steps back. When Lucian throws down a deadly ultimatum, Martha is forced to choose between relying on her own mystical woo woo to save the lives of her stolen friends or succumbing to the lure of dark, voodoo magic. Xan and Martha must work together to save those closest to her and put an end to Lucian's reign of terror before it's too late.
About the Author:
Lisa Sanchez sports many job titles, including, but not limited to: author, cheer mom, taxi driver, and general slave to her three children. She's represented by Saritza Hernandez of the L. Perkins Agency. The first two books in her Hanaford Park series (Eve Of Samhain and Pleasures Untold) are published with Omnific Publishing. The third book, tentatively titled Love In The Time Of Witches, is currently on submission. Her erotic suspense, Obsessed release March of 2011 with Loose Id.
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News story
Tackling tax credits error and fraud
HMRC has opened discussions with the commercial sector about how it could help to reduce tax credits error and fraud.
This follows a short trial earlier this year with a private sector supplier.
Key outcomes of the trial included 16,000 cases being reviewed, with 5,500 identified as containing error and fraud, and £20 million of potential losses identified. The trial demonstrated the potential for significant benefits through the use of private supplier technology, for example through sophisticated data analytics.
Ministers have now asked HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to explore the types of service the commercial sector can offer on a larger scale, and to engage with potential suppliers to gain an informed understanding of indicative costs, benefits and timelines ahead of an invitation to tender. This includes a focus on potential funding models that could deliver real savings to the public purse, for example using a "payments by and from results" model.
The overall aim is to add capacity to HMRC's existing workforce in order to significantly increase the number of successful tax credits compliance interventions, and to drive down error and fraud which, although at its lowest level yet, cost the taxpayer £2.09 billion in incorrect payments in 2011 to 2012.
HMRC already works successfully with the private sector, for example to collect debt and to identify high-risk tax credits claims. The department believes a similar arrangement can deliver a significant reduction in levels of tax credits error and fraud.
Any supplier will be required to operate under strict adherence to HMRC's legislative framework and must meet stringent security standards.


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Welcome to Paint Love GSU!
Paint Love engages and inspires youth in Atlanta through transformational art workshops. Inspired by the phenomenal impact that Paint Love has had on our community and in our lives, we started the next adventure: bringing Paint Love to the Georgia State University community. Our different experiences volunteering with Paint Love have allowed us to connect with the amazing youth of Atlanta, and we are excited for you to have these life-changing experiences too.


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In today's edition of NET TV'S Pafomans show, rising singer Danny Dreams shows his vocal and dancing prowess to his latest track, 'Olomi Lo Ma Re'.
Rate his performance on a scale of 1-10.
Ⓒ Copyright NET News Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Please use sharing tools. Do not cut, copy or lift any content from this website without our consent.


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All Ireland Champion flute and whistle player Turlach Boylan established The Kansas City School of Irish Music beginning with tinwhistle classes in Fall 2006. At the start of 2007 Dave Agee began to teach fiddle at the school. Weekday evening group classes are held in Union Station at the offices of the Kansas City Irish Cultural Center. Individual lessons on flute, tinwhistle and banjo are available.
The tinwhistle is the simplest and least expensive instrument in Irish music, yet capable of producing exceptional music in the hands of a master. The fingering system is straightforward and it is small and portable, making it the perfect instrument for children and beginners.
Used in folk music around the world, fiddle is the most popular instrument in Irish music. The instrument is readily available, and children have been known to start learning as young as 3 or 4 years old.


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My recent projects have been writing product descriptions for a gadget website, a telesales script for a New Zealand Wedding Expo, keyword rich articles on everything from contact lenses to web hosting for US and UK clients, book editing for an Australian client, sales letters for various clients in the UK and US and game reviews for a Russian client. I am an experienced copywriter, technical writer, trainer and IT/Website tester. My background in writing technical manuals was while I was working for an employer. I worked with clients all over the world and lived in the US for a couple of years. Since returning to the UK over three years ago I have been working as a freelance writer and IT tester as well as concentrating on improving my web skills. While I have been a freelancer I have turned my hand to everything from adult oriented text to editing children's books. I can write about almost anything, as long as I am able to research it and I pride myself on my attention to detail, as well as being able to tailor my writing to suit any audience. I am an accomplished Product Training Specialist for a broadcasting equipment manufacturer and held this position for 3 years. My experience is in Windows based software and custom hardware. The classes are for varied numbers of students and can be either classroom or hands-on based. I excel at providing practical training and pride myself in being able to train almost everyone that I meet. My clients are primarily master control operators of varying levels of competency. I have trained in television networks all over the country and abroad including the BBC, TBS, CBS and CNN to groups of various sizes. I design and present my own courses using a variety of methods and am quick to learn new technologies. I specialise in customising my courses to suit the students' needs. I was involved in a Computer Based/Web Based Training initiative with a key client. This was produced using Flash and I am very proud of the end result. This is a field that has endless possibilities for companies of any kind. As I was often on-site on my own I had to become proficient at installing and setting up the software as well as faultfinding. This often involved networked PCs and databases running on a number of platforms including NT and Windows 95 and an SQL database. Some knowledge of cabling was also involved with our hardware and basic electronics. Prior to becoming a trainer I had experience in writing operator's guides and technical manuals for the company. I was with the company 6 years, 4 of which were in the United Kingdom prior to relocating to Atlanta for 2 years.
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James Jordan: Ola won't win Strictly Come Dancing
- Bang Showbiz
- 5 November 2014
James Jordan has confessed he doesn't think his wife Ola Jordan will win the current series of 'Strictly Come Dancing' with partner Steve Backshall because Frankie Bridge is "obviously" going to win
James Jordan doesn't think his wife will win 'Strictly Come Dancing'.
The 'Celebrity Big Brother' star was axed from the BBC One celebrity dance contest last year but wife Ola Jordan is currently competing with 'Deadly 60' presenter Steve Backshall, who he doesn't think has a chance of taking home the coveted glitterball trophy.
Speaking at the SeriousFun Children's Network Gala at London's Roundhouse, James told BANG Showbiz: "Frankie's [Frankie Bridge] going to win obviously. I think Frankie will win but, yeah, it would be great if Ola won."
James did have words of encouragement for Steve, however, as he confessed he thinks he's doing really well considering other celebrities taking part including Frankie, former 'Xtra Factor' host Caroline Flack and singer Pixie Lott have had dance lessons in the past.
The 36-year-old ballroom dancer said: "You know what, he seems really likeable which is great and he seems like he's a trier and, for me, that's what Strictly's about.
"Of course you're always going to have people on the show who have had previous dance training and he's obviously had none and I think he's doing a good job for quite a big guy."
Meanwhile, 32-year-old Ola has responded to her husband's claim that she won't win, admitting she'd love to lift the trophy for a second time after winning with Chris Hollins in 2009.
She said: "I need to prove him wrong then don't I? I would love to be the first dancer to win it for a second time."


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On the USA Science and Engineering Festival blog, astronaut John Grunsfeld describes what it's like to rocket into space. Astronauts first spend two hours strapped in on the launchpad, "flipping switches and thinking about our training and the jobs we have to do." They count down to ignition, mindful of the 4.5 million pounds of explosive in the fuel tanks. After liftoff, the shuttle accelerates out of Earth's atmosphere in less than nine minutes, causing each astronaut to feel like they weigh 700 pounds. An instant later, they are weightless. On Starts With a Bang, Ethan Siegel shares majestic pictures of the Earth from space, including a panoramic image from 1948 that clearly shows the curvature of the planet. Nowadays, MIT students can take a similar shot for only $150. But they still can't compete with pictures of the Earth from the moon, from Voyager, from Mars, from Mercury, and from the rings of Saturn. Whether out the window or merely pixellated, the Earth is a truly beautiful place.
- Astronaut John Grunsfeld Tells What Lifting Off in the Space Shuttle is Really Like! on The USA Science and Engineering Festival Blog
- Happy Earth Day, 2011 Edition! on Starts With a Bang!


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Getting through an interview with the judges can be one of the hardest parts of participating in a beauty pageant. It can give you butterflies and make you nervous days before as you think about what questions will be asked and what your answers should be. Here are a few tips on acing that interview.
Review your application
The judges will probably either have your application in front of them when they interview you or will have read it just prior to the interview. It would benefit you to also review it so you have an idea of some of the questions they may ask.
Practice your answers but keep it real
Try to find out as much information about the interview process as you can from previous contestants or those who have the knowledge. Then, take the time to practice your answers so you know what you'll say and how to act confident. Just make sure that you keep things real and don't sound too rehearsed. It is important to look prepared but not fake.
Dress for success
This is a motto for many business interviews, but it also applies to the world of beauty pageants. Wear an outfit that is appropriate and not too casual or too fancy. It should look professional but also give you confidence. You may want to pick a color you look good in or a style that helps you relax. It should be an outfit you have worn before so you aren't worried that it doesn't fit right or that it's uncomfortable.
Be memorable
Try to find a natural way to stand out in the judges' minds since they will be seeing a lot of contestants. It may be with an accessory or it may be in your personality. Don't try to force it or it will seem contrived to the judges. For instance, if you have a quirky sense of humor, allow it to show through with your answers. However, if you are more of a serious person, don't try to insert humor because it won't work.
Be thorough
When asked a question, answer it thoroughly. Don't just give a yes or no answer, but add clarification. On the other hand, don't drag out your answer too long or the judges will get bored.
These are a few tips to help you ace your next interview. The last little tid bit is somewhat of a secret, so hush hush… I always wear my latest winning beauty pageant sash when I come into an interview. It is something that judges love although I don't entirely know why. I've always had great success when I buy my beauty pageant sashes from the sash store. I always buy beauty pageant sashes from them when I am directing a beauty pageant. I can always find great sashes for pageants at their online store. Thanks for your time and I hope that you enjoyed my article be sure to read this interesting beauty story if you're interesting in learning more. Don't forget to visit the Sash Store for great custom pageant sashes.


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I am, admittedly, a bit of a Type-A, control freak! I don't like surprises if I know that they are coming (but don't know what is coming). My husband learned this the hard way as he was planning our proposal. He kept telling me he had a surprise planned and that he was working on it. He thought the anticipation would get me excited. Quite the opposite happened. I was a WRECK, thinking he might be proposing, but worrying that if he wasn't proposing, I would be disappointed, when he had just put so much effort into surprising me with something else. For a month, my poor family members and college roommates had to listen to me fret (and yes, cry) over this.
Well, adoption is NOT for the control freak. Or, maybe it is…maybe it is God's way of teaching the control freak, like me, to trust Him and hand over the reins to our lives. I can tell you, though, this lesson does not come easily for those of us who like to take the reins in our hands and make something happen. You would think, having been down this road once before that I would have learned my lesson and would be content to wait on the Lord and his perfect timing.
I do believe with my whole heart that God's timing is perfect and I wouldn't want any child, except the one He has for us, yet I still find myself obsessively trying to find our next baby and raise the necessary funds. I search for adoption situations online through different agencies multiple times a day, then I focus on raising the rest of our money, then I read adoption books about successful adoption stories. Obsessed? I'd say yes! You probably think I am crazy right now, but I'm just being honest and I can honestly say that my experience does not seem to be unique. Many adoptive moms I have talked to become obsessed about their adoption journey, having a constant internal tug-of-war between making something happen on their own and trusting God!
Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10
I'll admit, I haven't "been still" much lately. I have been so afraid I would miss an adoption situation, that I have been obsessively checking online for adoption situations. I keep trying to make something happen on my own or wish it out of thin air. Guess what? I haven't found a single situation. Oh, the irony! When I do step back for a second and remember who God is and everything He is done, I am reminded that if it is the situation for us, I won't miss it! I'm not saying that I need to stop looking or reaching out to adoption professionals or sharing our profile, but I am saying that I need to make sure that I am first sitting at the feet of my King and that I am trusting Him to work in His perfect time. I should be making myself available without making something happen. I don't want it, if God didn't make it happen!
I'm sharing this, because I am sure there are those of you, like me, who are control freaks who struggle in many areas of life with giving the reins to God. If you're like me, when nothing is happening and you are just supposed to wait and pray, you instead try to make something happen. If that is you, in any area of your life, I ask you to join me in waiting first on Him.
Wait for the Lord; Be strong, and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord. ~Psalm 27:14
As I wait on Him, God reminds me of the story of Abram, Sarai, Hagar, and Ishmael. You see, God promised Abraham a son of his flesh and blood (Gen 15:4) and descendants as numerous as the stars (Gen 15:5). Yet, year after year went by and Sarai still had not conceived, so Sarai tried to take matters into her own hands:
Genesis 16
Now Sarai, Abram's wife, had borne him no children. But she had an Egyptian slave named Hagar; 2 so she said to Abram, "The Lord has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my slave; perhaps I can build a family through her."
Abram agreed to what Sarai said. 3 So after Abram had been living in Canaan ten years, Sarai his wife took her Egyptian slave Hagar and gave her to her husband to be his wife. 4 He slept with Hagar, and she conceived.
When she knew she was pregnant, she began to despise her mistress. 5 Then Sarai said to Abram, "You are responsible for the wrong I am suffering. I put my slave in your arms, and now that she knows she is pregnant, she despises me. May the Lord judge between you and me."
6 "Your slave is in your hands," Abram said. "Do with her whatever you think best." Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her.
15 So Hagar bore Abram a son, and Abram gave the name Ishmael to the son she had borne. 16 Abram was eighty-six years old when Hagar bore him Ishmael.
Genesis 17
When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, "I am God Almighty[a]; walk before me faithfully and be blameless. 2 Then I will make my covenant between me and you and will greatly increase your numbers."
15 God also said to Abraham, "As for Sarai your wife, you are no longer to call her Sarai; her name will be Sarah. 16 I will bless her and will surely give you a son by her. I will bless her so that she will be the mother of nations; kings of peoples will come from her."
17 Abraham fell facedown; he laughed and said to himself, "Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at the age of ninety?" 18 And Abraham said to God, "If only Ishmael might live under your blessing!"
19 Then God said, "Yes, but your wife Sarah will bear you a son, and you will call him Isaac.[d] I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him. 20 And as for Ishmael, I have heard you: I will surely bless him; I will make him fruitful and will greatly increase his numbers. He will be the father of twelve rulers, and I will make him into a great nation. 21 But my covenant I will establish with Isaac, whom Sarah will bear to you by this time next year." 22 When he had finished speaking with Abraham, God went up from him.
Genesis 18
9 "Where is your wife Sarah?" the three visitors asked him.
"There, in the tent," he said.
10 Then one of them said, "I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife will have a son."
Now Sarah was listening at the entrance to the tent, which was behind him. 11 Abraham and Sarah were already very old, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, "After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?"
13 Then the Lord said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh and say, 'Will I really have a child, now that I am old?' 14 Is anything too hard for the Lord? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son."
15 Sarah was afraid, so she lied and said, "I did not laugh."
But he said, "Yes, you did laugh."
Genesis 21
2 Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him.
Abram had received a promise from God, yet when it didn't appear as if God was fulfilling it, he and Sarai took action and tried to make the promise happen on their own. This caused a wedge in their home and a host of unnecessary drama. It took God over 15 years after Ishmael was born for Sarah to give birth to Isaac. Their waiting was long, but God was faithful and fulfilled His promise. I bet that it was worth the wait and I bet not a day went by that Sarai didn't wish she hadn't interfered. Let's not be like Abraham and Sarah, who couldn't wait on God's perfect timing and instead took the reins and created drama. Instead, let's spend our time seeking Him and trusting that if God promises, He will deliver. There is nothing more powerful we can do in this time than to pray and turn to Him. I promise His plans are better than anything you could make happen. If you wait on Him, you will avoid unnecessary heartache, stress, and drama, and, most importantly, your relationship with Him will grow in untold ways. Will you join me in waiting on our King?


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PHOENIX -- When it comes to Deflategate, I think we can consider Richard Sherman a skeptic. At least in terms of any potential penalties the New England Patriots might incur from NFL commissioner Roger Goodell for their alleged misdeeds regarding the under-inflation of game balls in last week's AFC Championship Game.
"Will they be punished? Probably not," said Sherman with his trademark bluntness on Sunday afternoon, in the Seattle Seahawks' first media availability of Super Bowl week. "Not as long as [Patriots owner] Robert Kraft and Goodell are still taking pictures [together] at their respective homes. I think he was just at Kraft's house last week for the AFC Championship. Talk about conflict of interest. You know, as long as that happens, it won't affect them at all. Nothing will."
• Deflategate: Complete coverage | Super Bowl XLIX: News, features
Sherman said the Patriots, Seattle's Super Bowl opponent in next Sunday's game, aren't in the position to receive the benefit of the doubt in the controversy over whether they tampered with the footballs their offense used in last Sunday's 45-7 AFC title game blowout of Indianapolis.
"I think the perception is the reality," said the Seattle star cornerback, speaking from the Seahawks' team hotel in Phoenix, shortly after the team arrived in Arizona. "It is what it is. Their résumé speaks for itself. You talk about getting close to the line. ... I don't really have a comment about that, but their past is what their past is, their present is what their present is."
But Goodell and Kraft weren't the only ones to draw fire from Sherman. Elected to the Pro Bowl, Sherman obviously missed Sunday's game at University of Phoenix Stadium in nearby Glendale due to his Super Bowl participation.
He wasn't upset about that fact, but he was irked about missing out on the players-only goodies that come with making the Pro Bowl.
"That would [imply] I'm disappointed that I'm in the Super Bowl,'' said Sherman, when asked if he was disappointed he was missing the Pro Bowl. "No, I'm perfectly fine with being in the Super Bowl. The only thing I'm disappointed in is they won't give us our gifts from the Pro Bowl. Which is kind of dumb. The NFL is the only league that punishes the players who make the All-Star Game by not giving them their gifts. It's supposed to be watches and some other stuff, but we don't get to get them so I couldn't tell you now."


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Gillenfeld Hotel Accommodation
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Where to stay in Gillenfeld
Gillenfeld overviewGillenfeld is an inviting destination that has something for everyone. Though there might not be many well-known attractions to visit in Gillenfeld, you don't need to go far to find places to visit like Gemuendener Maar and Wild- and Erlebnispark Daun. You can take some time to discover the surrounding area and sights like Eifel Volcano Museum and Vulkaneifel Thermal Spa.
Where to stay in GillenfeldA welcoming city for all, Gillenfeld has a variety of hotels and other lodging options. You can shop as many as 70 deals for Gillenfeld accommodations on Hotels.com, some with discounts of up to 30%. Our room prices start at 33 USD per night and here's a breakdown of hotels by star rating in Gillenfeld as well as in the surrounding area:
- • 6 5-star hotels from 76 USD per night
- • 46 4-star hotels from 56 USD per night
- • 66 3-star hotels from 43 USD per night
- • 7 2-star hotels from 33 USD per night
How to get to GillenfeldFly into Frankfurt (HHN-Frankfurt - Hahn), 20.2 mi (32.5 km) from central Gillenfeld.
What to see around GillenfeldHere are some recommended places to see in the surrounding area:
- • Gemuendener Maar (4.9 mi/7.9 km from the city center)
- • Wild- and Erlebnispark Daun (6.1 mi/9.8 km from the city center)
- • Eifel Volcano Museum (6.2 mi/10 km from the city center)
- • Vulkaneifel Thermal Spa (6.6 mi/10.6 km from the city center)
- • Calmont Klettersteig (9.3 mi/14.9 km from the city center)
When to visit GillenfeldDo you want to know the ideal time of year to visit? Here's a list of the seasonal weather norms to help with trip planning:
Seasonal temperature averages
- • January-March: 48°F day, 25°F night
- • April-June: 67°F day, 36°F night
- • July-September: 68°F day, 46°F night
- • October-December: 58°F day, 27°F night
- • January-March: 0.24 inches
- • April-June: 0.28 inches
- • July-September: 0.31 inches
- • October-December: 0.24 inches


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I just watched 300. One word. Perfect. The movie was damn nice. Nice cos the scenes were so artistic that each one of them, if converted to photos, the movie will be full of fantastic stills. So nice can die… 😀
Anyway, here's another great movie I recommend.
It's called 003. I am not sure if its related to 300 or not… oh well..
It's a story about 3 guys who fight with their brain and fight with their heart. One of the guy is the King.
The King who loves his country, his people and his love.. would fight without turning back.. without regrets.
The Queen is so powerful she can voice out her opinions when the men are talking. She says "we have the rights to speak cos we are the women who give birth to real men!"
Soon the country was attacked by a baddie. He tried to persuade the King to kneel to him…
But the King says..
so the baddie was so furious he sent troops to attack the King and his fellowship.(got horses, elephants, cow, buffalos, chicken ,duck and some other weird looking creatures all come out :P)
They were so hyped up they shouted..
so they fought… the war was too bloody..
the queen went to save the King but to no avail..
The King was killed by the baddie.. so sad…
everyone must watch ok.. damn nice wan.. 😀


text: If you haven't considered bringing an iPod to your next colonoscopy, maybe you should. Researchers in Philadelphia found that patients who piped in their favorite tunes during the procedure (ear buds were taped to their ears!) required less sedation while reporting equal tolerance of discomfort. The findings are based on a study of 44 women and 29 men that was presented this year at a national meeting of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.


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It's been a month since I started this blog, and I just reached 10,000 pageviews! I know I know, some have that during a week. Or day. Or hour. But this is a huge deal for little me.
The background is a piece of paper (can be bought at craft stores),
and I used wooden alphabet stamps from Hobby Lobby.


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by Carrie Host
Published by Harlequin/August 2009/Hardcover
Author website: http://carriehost.com/index.html
"I do have a future, and the picture of that future is made up of a multitude of tiny dots called 'right now.'"
Carrie Host knows that the diagnosis of a life-threatening illness takes a split second to change your life, as well as the lives of your partner, parents, children and all who love you. Packed with inspiration, advice, comfort and hope, Between Me and the River is Host's candid and uplifting memoir of how she found the strength and fortitude to triumph over a rare form of cancer, and craft a new and meaningful life.
When told at forty, with her youngest child just ten months old, that she had carcinoid tumor, Host felt as if she'd been hurled into a raging river, stripped of all forms of potential rescue. The voyage of this strong-minded, openhearted woman out of that river and onto safe shores is told with uncompromising honesty and respect for the miracles that medicine and love can work.
While dealing with practical issues such as how to find the best medical team and what to tell the children, Host also recounts the many spiritual and eye-opening lessons that made her journey so bearable: how to see what is available rather than what is absent, how to free up energy to heal by letting go of anger and fear, and how to believe in the future.
Host's unquenchable sense of humor in the midst of suffering creates poignant moments of laughter through tears. Bracing, lyrical and deeply moving, Between Me and the River is a tribute to one life, and all lives, rerouted by illness. This remarkably honest book provides a deep sense of insight and understanding for survivors, caregivers, family members and friends.
This is an amazing book. It is so beautifully written. The author's intense transparency and honesty may just be one of the most moving things I have ever read. Between Me and the River gave me my first true understanding of what it means to go through cancer. I absolutely wept throughout the book. Carrie Host has an incredibly gift in the art of communication.
I want to share just a few of my favourite quotes from the book:
"I have to have a way to process the intensity of my situation that isn't a nervous breakdown."
Small children do not rely on words, but instead read all physical messages. Since they can't talk, they pay attention. I've begun to do that, too, in this foreign country of serious illness. William [ her baby ] reminds me through his touch that actions replace all the words I'm looking for but can't find. He presses his head into my next, his face toward mine...the back of his hand is flat against me with his palm facing out, pushing away the world and sealing us together. With his other arm, he holds on to my left shoulder. Then, I feel his little fingers patting me just as I have done so many times to him, with an "It's okay...it's okay" in their rhythm. My eyes, two sunken ships, glitter with a treasure of tears for the sweet, uncomplicated love of my baby.
Upon being told to go to the emergency room once again:
"No. No way. I'm too sick for that. I can't deal with that place again," I counter, realizing at once how illogical that sounds. It takes someone really sick, who has been through the worst, to know what I mean. Getting myself motivated to go to the E.R. for help is like trying to convey a relatively easy principle in a foreign language. It's like I'm trying to explain the way I feel in Russian without knowing a single word of the language. Before I even begin, I'm exhausted. The thought of trying to express myself makes me close my eyes and swallow hard. The same is true of trying to explain things that doctors can't readily see. It is too much to attempt, so I don't.
I honestly think this book should be read by everyone. If you work with cancer patients, if you have a friend or family member with cancer or if you have cancer yourself READ THIS BOOK. Seriously. I can't say enough good about Between Me and the River.
Q&A with Carrie Host
Author of Between Me and the River
Q: Do you wish you had more time, energy or money?
A: Time. That's easy. Because it is the only thing that allows everything else that can come into existence to show its face.
Q: Why did you write your book? What are you hoping to accomplish through it?
A: I wrote my book because I love to write and because I thought I was at the end of my life. I knew things about love and healing, pain and suffering, that I wanted desperately to share. I knew that I might be able to help a ton of people find their own strength through witnessing my weakness in the pages of my book.
Q: If you had access to a time machine where would you go? If you could live in another era what would it be?
A: I would go back to the mid-1500's, but only to see the unspoiled landscapes and the night sky. If I could live in another era, it would be the early 1900's…say 1910 to 1949…because of the explosion of music, film and art. I am sure that I would have enjoyed the privacy that the lack of technology supplied. Also, all things had weight and substance in a way that they have lost now.
Q: Do you write on a schedule or just when the mood strikes?
A: I wrote on a schedule to complete the manuscript for Between Me and the River, but being a poet at heart, I always write when the mood or idea strikes. Lots of scraps of paper here and there that I then assemble later.
Q: When you were a little girl what did you want to be when you grew up?
A. When I was a little girl I wanted to be a mother. That is to say that at six years old, I recall deciding that my Madame Alexander Dolls could only be more wonderful if they were real babies.
Then, when I was eight years old, I wrote a letter to President Nixon. It was more of a request, actually. I sent him a small valentine asking him a big favor: to end the war in Vietnam. He wrote me back. And as I sat on the front steps of my house in Denver, Colorado holding his reply in an envelope from the White House addressed to me, all the way from a place called Washington, DC, I knew that I wanted to be a writer. Writing got to people.
As one of six kids getting anyone to listen was a task in itself. It usually amounted to being the loudest or the funniest. But when I heard that my oldest brother Jack was going to be sent away to war, I was speechless. I decided to take matters into my own hands. Being loud or funny wasn't going to work here. The only way to get the President to listen was to write him a letter.
After that, I began writing stories and poems, letters and limericks, but my dream of being a writer slowly faded with the pages I began collecting in an old leather suitcase, for "someday."
I also thought about being a nun (since they all seemed to do a lot of writing), but my first wish to be a mother would have been dashed. So much for the convent.
Q: If I wanted to be a writer what would be the first thing I needed to do?
A: Okay, brace yourself for my unadorned answer: You would have to stop telling everyone and anyone that and just sit down and write. You must write, write and write some more. No one is listening anyway because all non-writers think we are nuts to begin with.
Q: Who is your favourite writer and have you met them yet?
A: Oh boy. The list is far too long. If I start with the oldest, then we are back in the Classics reading a man named Boethius. As for the modern world: James Joyce, Ernest Hemingway, Isabel Allende, Lewis Carroll, Arthur Golden, Anne Patchett. So many, so fabulous. I have never met any of them. I did meet Bobby Morresco. He wrote the screenplay for the movie "Crash". An amazing writer.
Thank-you so much Carrie!!


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Delivering Choice and Growth through the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA)
Speech by Alex Chisholm, CEO-designate of the Competition and Markets Authority, which is due to be formally established on 1 October 2013.
Many thanks to Graeme and the other organisers for giving me this opportunity to address you this morning. It is exciting to be here for your main annual event, with a packed agenda, and so many experts present to help us appreciate key recent and upcoming developments in competition law and practice.
And it's remarkably timely – showing great foresight on the Law Society's part – to have been invited to speak about the Competition and Markets Authority, just two weeks after the legislation establishing the new agency has been passed by Parliament.
My plan is to give a brief overview of where we are with the CMA, and some of the opportunities and challenges we face. Then to touch briefly on each of the subjects covered by the conference programme today. And finally to bring this together to show how what we do with the Competition and Markets Authority can benefit choice and growth, as in the title given to me for this address.
Towards the CMA
I should however keep in mind that I am less than two months in post and recall that I am Chief Executive designate; the Authority is not due to come into formal existence until 1 October this year, and full functions and powers until 1 April 2014. The CMA does not yet have a Board to consider and adopt its strategies and policies, nor have we yet consulted with external stakeholders on various necessary matters. What I will say today therefore is an early take on the CMA's contribution to delivering choice and growth but, that said, it does represent the joint current best thinking of myself and the CMA Chairman Designate, Lord Currie. The Government's move to create a single authority was driven by three stated objectives:
- using competition powers and processes in the most flexible and dynamic way
- enabling more efficient and effective use of scarce public resources
- creating a single powerful advocate for competition in the UK and abroad
It is my intention that the CMA becomes a world class competition and consumer authority which will both build on the strengths of the Office of Fair Trading and Competition Commission and capture the benefits of reform. In particular, we will:
- pursue cases more effectively, learning from previous experiences and using our new powers
- speed up our work, by removing duplication and streamlining processes
- improve the robustness and quality of our decisions through multi-disciplinary analysis, rigorous challenge and adhering to fair and open processes
We have set in hand a thorough review of the CMA's conduct of business, including our decision-making processes, to reflect the changes to the law, the creation of a unitary authority and the improvements we want to make. In this process we have been greatly assisted by a number of secondees from law firms, including many of yours. We are very grateful for this assistance and indeed will be looking for a further batch for the next phase in the work.
Over the summer we will also be publishing for consultation a significant amount of guidance, which the CMA will need to have in place before launch. We've split this into two tranches to be more digestible and manageable, so I'd urge you to look out for the first consultation phase in July and the second in September. As well as ensuring the fairness and robustness of these processes, we need to make sure they allow us to work to the new tighter timetables provided for in the legislation, and help us to deliver the efficiencies foreseen from the move to a unitary authority.
And we are looking hard at the structures and working methods that will best integrate the two agencies – the Office of Fair Trading and the Competition Commission – so as to remove duplication, and ensure we make the best use of the talent and powers at our disposal.
CMA strategy, partnerships and talent
It is also important that we take a strategic approach to which markets and which behaviours to target, so that we can maximise the CMA impact on the economy and consumer welfare. To do this we will need:
- to develop further the strategic prioritisation approach adopted by the OFT
- to pay attention to how the economy is developing, and where new competition pinch-points and consumer frustrations are emerging
- to concentrate our internal assessment of the many sources of research and market intelligence about competition and consumer problems that come into the authorities, so that we can feed the key trends and information into our thinking about our priorities and our decisions on what projects and cases to pursue
Once the CMA has come into existence, in October this year, we plan to publish our draft strategy for public comment. The new regime also provides for working effectively in partnership with sector regulators and other enforcement agencies, with an expectation from the Government that there will be a step-up in the application of general competition policy and law in the areas covered by sectoral regulation – sectors that account for some 25% of the economy – and effective cooperation with organisations such as trading standards in the area of consumer enforcement. The quality of our interactions with these partner-agencies will make a real difference to our own effectiveness. Both David Currie, CMA Chairman Designate, and I have started the process of reaching out to these other agencies to explore how best we can work productively in partnership. And the legislation will require to us to report each year on how this concurrency regime is working.
Nor will we neglect the international sphere, where the Competition Commission and the Office of Fair Trading have set a high standard which we must emulate. The globalisation of business, and the widespread adoption of new business models involving digital platforms operating cross-borders and competing with traditional business formats, has put a high premium on effective cooperation between competition and consumer agencies across Europe and the world. We are determined that the UK will continue to play a prominent and effective role in the OECD, ECN, ICN, ICPEN and the various other international fora, sharing knowledge and enforcement skills and actively engaging and cooperating on cases.
All of which will require that we continue to motivate, retain and attract talented and expert staff: people with impressive track records and strong professional skills who want to make a real difference at this exciting time in the development of UK competition and consumer policy.
Let me now turn to some of the important topics you will be discussing over the course of today.
Given the increasingly international and interdependent nature of business activities, coherence of the merger regime is a key issue. I know a lot of work has been done to bring different regimes together, but the UK regime still has some distinctive features. Voluntary notification of mergers, which the Government has chosen to leave in place, is one. Another is differing thresholds, particularly on what constitutes sufficient control of an undertaking. The UK test will continue to allow us to consider acquisition of minority shareholdings. This enables us to investigate cases that may have anti-competitive effect which we could not otherwise reach, for example in the BSkyB case where the CC found that the likely loss of rivalry resulting from the acquisition of a minority stake would have adverse effects on prices, quality and innovation.
Among the regimes internationally, the European Commission does not do this at present, but is currently considering amending its regime, and I will be interested to hear your views on this matter later on, particularly on how reform could deliver positive outcomes for consumers and the world's economy.
Closer to home, the government has set us the task of implementing reforms to make merger control more efficient. This will require:
- a rigorous and consistent competition analysis that effectively blends legal, economic and business expertise to determine whether a merger will harm competition and devise appropriate remedies where needed
- application of this within reasonable time-frames and without excessive information or research requirements
- transparency in our process and clarity of reasoning in our published decisions, in Phase 1 and Phase 2
We want from our merger regime an effective filtering system which focuses correctly and efficiently on remedying or blocking anti-competitive mergers, without holding up harmless or beneficial ones.
We will use the new regime and new powers to:
- provide scope for early preventative action where necessary making use of the new interim measures powers
- provide a quicker overall process, meeting new statutory timetables for Phase 1 and remedies implementation and capturing synergies created by a single competition authority without compromising phase separation
- enable parties to know what are the CMA's competition concerns and so be able to better target undertakings in lieu
Competition law investigations
Another key tool for delivering effective competition is bringing enforcement cases, including by way of prosecution in the criminal courts, where applicable.
The CMA's enforcement programme can be successful using a range of tools whether by:
- bringing successful criminal prosecutions before the courts for the criminal cartel offence against individuals or certain consumer offences
- by taking civil cases against businesses under the administrative procedure of the anti-trust legislation and/or applying for competition disqualification orders against Directors
- negotiating with parties following the initiation of an investigation to agree satisfactory undertakings or commitments, or
- by issuing warning or guidance as appropriate
Some level of anti-competitive behaviour is unfortunately always with us, and so it is vital that its scope is minimised by effective enforcement action culminating in meaningful sanctions. Market-sharing and price-fixing cartels, price squeezes, retail price maintenance, refusals to supply, tying in – such practices do real harm to other businesses and to end consumers, and must not be left unchallenged.
To provide an effective deterrent, the CMA should aim to secure a steady stream of successful enforcement actions, including infringement proceedings that stand up to full judicial scrutiny. The cases will need to be well chosen, well managed, sufficient in number and variety, and completed with appropriate pace and transparency.
Building on the good work of the existing enforcement bodies, we want to help to promote a business environment in the UK with a 'culture of compliance' in which any company in any sector should know that they must abide by competition and consumer law, or face significant adverse consequences.
We will play our full part by bringing enforcement cases where we need to, and also by helping to inform companies – small as well as international – and their advisers about the need to ensure compliance with competition law.
The firms represented at this conference – and indeed legal advisers more generally – also have a critical role to play, in steering companies towards a full and effective compliance.
Market investigations and studies
One advantage we have in the UK is that our enforcement work is complemented by the ability to undertake market studies and investigations.
I believe that a programme of market studies and investigations can be very useful in assessing practices that give rise to serious concerns about competition and consumer welfare, but may not be clearly associated with any breach of the law. In some cases, these market studies can lead to interventions that produce real transformation in key markets – as has been achieved in the airports sector – which represents a real boon for the economy.
Of course we will need to use our market powers wisely. The legislation makes a market investigation reference a decision for the CMA Board and this should caution us not to assume that every market study ought to become a market investigation. The CMA will have less intrusive ways to resolve some of the issues a market study identifies. The OFT's recent market study on dentistry led directly to changes that enable patients to get direct access to dental care professionals, such as dental hygienists, without a referral from a dentist – a move believed to increase patient choice and drive competition and innovation in the market.
I understand the concerns that new powers of investigation may introduce new burdens on business as a result. Let me reassure you I am not interested in 'fishing expeditions' – where we act, we will have reason. Further, I do appreciate the need for us to ensure that the CMA's information requests are proportionate and well directed, and that parties – interested businesses and consumer and other stakeholders – understand where we are coming from, and where they stand in the process.
With the creation of the single Authority, bringing under one roof the Phase 1 and Phase 2 work, we have the opportunity to refine further our approaches to market studies and market investigations, to help us choose the right markets for this attention, and where necessary to fine-tune the most appropriate remedies. We must fully respect the needs:
- to keep a clear distinction between the two phases
- to preserve the objectivity of the panel system of independent members
- to safeguard from confirmation bias
All of this can be done and still bring more efficiency and timeliness to the process, as is envisaged by the new Act. This will require tighter management of the investigation - now subject to shorter statutory timetables; also smoother interchange between the two Phases; and to a certain extent, use of some of the same personnel across both phases.
Competition law online
As consumer and business transactions move online, inevitably so do issues around consumer choice and protection – the potential for both consumer detriment and consumer benefit is significant.
This is a subject which I am already familiar with in my previous role, not least in relation to whether there need to be rules in place to ensure non-discrimination of content delivered over electronic communications networks, so called 'net neutrality'. This is an important area not only from an individual consumer angle but also as an area which must continue to benefit from innovation and effective competition if the overall economy is to prosper. It is one the OFT is following closely, not least in relation to its recent call for evidence into personalised pricing.
We need to ensure that the new digital platforms evolve so as to allow for the continuing effective interplay of competition, and so that consumers can benefit fully from the wonderful new products and services coming to market, and the undoubted efficiency gains associated with digital distribution and digital price comparison.
Cartel enforcement
This afternoon you will also be discussing cartels. Hardcore cartels represent a major barrier to dynamic, innovative markets and economic growth, by artificially raising prices and lowering output to both consumers and businesses, as well as disincentivising those companies engaged in cartel activity from seeking ways to become more efficient.
Earlier I mentioned that enforcement is a key tool in the armoury of an agency like the CMA in order to achieve effective competition, which is so vital for a thriving economy. This applies as much to criminal cartels as it does to broader anti-trust infringements – indeed with the additional risk of criminal prosecutions - and again this will be achieved in the context of a reformed regime.
The reformed cartel offence in the Act is to be welcomed, particularly the removal of the dishonesty test, which it is envisaged, will make enforcement of the law in this area much more practically effective. No doubt you will have your own views on this and other aspects of the regime, and you will have the chance to share them later.
For my part I am firmly committed to giving priority to detecting and punishing cartels including in appropriate cases taking actions against individuals.
I should add that I've focused today on the areas that match your conference agenda. In doing so, I've not commented in depth on our consumer enforcement role and powers. Suffice it to say that this will be a vital part of our work – and I'd encourage your members to be involved in developing our thinking on this in the future, just as you are considering the competition issues in more depth today.
Private actions
It is also important to recognise that the wider context of competition law within which the new Authority will operate continues to evolve, and these include moves in both UK and EC jurisdictions to establish effective private rights of action.
In April 2012, the government launched a consultation on possible reform of the UK regime.
I am aware that while the majority of respondents agreed with the government's assessment that the current system of collective redress requires reform, there remain sharp divisions as to what steps should be taken to cure the problem.
At the beginning of this year the government issued its response to the consultation with concrete proposals that are expected to make their way into draft legislation to be tabled during the present Parliament. Notably, the government maintains the view that an opt-out mechanism should be introduced.
I believe that the proposed reform is to be welcomed but recognise that while collectivising claims goes some way to generating costs savings and efficiencies, the burden of both the cost associated with pursuing claims as well as exposure to adverse costs on appeal will be by no means a minor consideration for genuine representatives of victims of anti-competitive conduct.
Nevertheless, if it helps make the consequences of anti-competitive behaviour more painful, and provides realistic and fair redress for parties harmed, it must be considered desirable.
Returning to the CMA, my ambition is to strengthen what is already a strong and admired regime to create one that is seen as truly world-class in quality and which makes a really worthwhile ongoing contribution to national economic performance.
The central challenge at this stage is to create a vibrant new authority that does justice to the ambitious intentions of the reforms. We need to operate the market and mergers regime effectively, improve anti-trust enforcement, promote competition within the areas of sectoral regulation, and play a strong central role in the new consumer landscape.
The prize if we get all this right is well worth having.
Consumer research consistently shows how important it is for consumers to feel they face genuine choices. In the current tough economic conditions – with many household incomes under pressure – the opportunity to choose how much you spend, on what, and with whom, is of vital importance. The Competition and Markets Authority must continue to underwrite that choice by promoting competition and punishing breaches of competition and consumer law.
And well informed consumer choices reward businesses that innovate and compete fairly. The need to satisfy demanding UK consumers is the spur to productivity, business competitiveness and export success, which are together so vital to the drive to restore economic growth.
So choice and growth go hand in hand.
And the Competition and Markets Authority, uniting within it the OFT and the Competition Commission, will play our full part in sustaining choice and growth in the UK economy.
Thank you very much.


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This is the demo kit for Venzia, 52 pages with background, quickstart rules and an adventure, ready to play.
User Summary
Venzia is a French science-fantasy RPG. Planet Reggia is submerged under water since the Diluvio. In Venzia, the Doge employs the PCs to solve his problems behind the back of the council.
But there are other dark things happening: Black Chimeras, and Acqua Malefacente, a disease that cause mutations and disformities that still has no cure.
That's not without counting on the Hippogriffs, these ancient armors that provide super power to their users (the PCs).
It uses the open D6 system as translated by Les XII Singes


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Posts tagged Kingsgate House
Land Securities' boost for UK jobs and the trades
Land Securities has been given the go-ahead to start a £350 million Kingsgate redevelopment that will create 2,500 jobs throughout its construction and boost the trades.
The announcement comes after the Prime Minister, David Cameron, visited the site and showed his support for the project in an attempt to prevent planning levy for local infrastructure being double-charged and cut red tape.
David Cameron said: "Already the changes we are making to the planning system are having an impact, with Land Securities giving the go-ahead to a major multi-million pound investment, supporting thousands of jobs in our construction industry."
The scheme is designed by Lynch Architects and it comprises of two new buildings: The Zig Zag Building, a 190,000 sq ft office building over 14 floors with a staggered façade; and Kings Gate, a 12 storey residential building comprising 100 apartments.
Both buildings will provide a new and enhanced retail space with 45,000 sq ft of space, together with considerable improvements to the public realm benefitting the wider Victoria area. The buildings are planned to complete in summer 2015.
Robert Noel, Chief Executive of Land Securities said: "It is heartening to know that the Government has listened to the industry and acted to remove some of the uncertainty in the planning process.
"It enables us to progress with developing the former Kingsgate House site and continue to transform Victoria into a distinct and vibrant West End hub where people choose to live, work and visit.
"Our experience with our current developments demonstrates that Victoria is proving attractive to potential occupiers. This project will further add to its appeal."
The scheme will also provide an affordable housing contribution of £11.6 million which will be directed towards the provision of affordable development in the Westminster area.
What is your reaction to the multi-million development that will pave the way for new trade jobs? Share your thoughts by commenting here or raising your voice on our Facebook and Twitter pages.


text: I've been creating a whole lot of fresh new prints lately which I hope to be making into new products very soon. Watch this space! Today though, I wanted to share three prints that I designed specifically for a competition being run by Digital Print, a company in Sydney. The theme was 'Botanical Extract' and the brief was to design up to three prints with a botanical theme using hand drawn or painted elements. It sounded like just my thing! We were restricted to a palette of colours which was a little challenging as I love my colours clear and bright and these were mostly quite muted and earthy. I think it's good to be restricted with choice though because it pushes you to make the best work you can with what you've got and there will almost always be restrictions placed on you when working with a client. So here are my three designs and some of the preparatory sketches. If you'd like to vote on my design then please visit either the facebook page or Pinterest board and leave a comment on one of my designs. Fingers crossed!


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Hellas Verona
Verona finished in 10th place in Serie A last season with 54 points in regular season play. The team's leading scorer was Luca Toni, who scored 20 goals and added seven assists last season. Toni was closely followed by Juan Manuel Iturbe with eight goals and Jorginho Frello with seven goals, and they will be aiming for a better finish this season.
During the offseason, Verona lost Iturbe to Roma, but agreed to a contract extension with Toni for another year.
Serie A Fixtures 2014/15:
08/31/14: Atalanta (A)
09/14/14: Palermo (H)
09/21/14: Torino (A)
09/24/14: Genoa (H)
09/28/14: AS Roma (A)
10/05/14: Cagliari (H)
10/19/14: AC Milan (H)
10/26/14: Napoli (A)
10/29/14: Lazio (H)
11/02/14: Cesena (A)
11/09/14: Internazionale (A)
11/23/14: Fiorentina (H)
11/30/14: Sassuolo (A)
12/07/14: Sampdoria (H)
12/14/14: Udinese (A)
12/21/14: Chievo Verona (H)
01/06/15: Empoli (A)
01/11/15: Parma (H)
01/18/15: Juventus (A)
01/25/15: Atalanta (H)
02/01/15: Palermo (A)
02/08/15: Torino (H)
02/15/15: Genoa (A)
02/22/15: AS Roma (H)
03/01/15: Cagliari (A)
03/08/15: AC Milan (A)
03/15/15: Napoli (H)
03/22/15: Lazio (A)
04/04/15: Cesena (H)
04/12/15: Internazionale (H)
04/19/15: Fiorentina (A)
04/26/15: Sassuolo (H)
04/29/15: Sampdoria (A)
05/03/15: Udinese (H)
05/10/15: Chievo Verona (A)
05/17/15: Empoli (H)
05/24/15: Parma (A)
05/31/15: Juventus (H)
Note: Serie A does not confirm fixture dates until a few weeks prior to matches. Dates subject to change.
- Brad Rowland


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Now, the rest is up to you! You have a tough job ahead of you because all these moms deserve to win. And remember – the winner receives a $400 portrait package, hair cut and style, personal training, dinner out, and gifts.
Here's how the voting works. Below are the 11 contestants, each with a picture and brief description written by a loved one. If you want to read the whole story, you can click http://danajacksonphotography.com/stories.txt
and read all of the stories on one looooong page. If that's a bit overwhelming for you – you can just click on the link next to each picture to read just their story. Then, once you've made your decision – you need to focus your attention on the poll to the right of this blog. Yep – right there on the right! Now, all you have to do is click on the contestant you think deserves to be celebrated.
Have fun, be fair, and celebrate life with me!
Contestant #1
Dana A - nominated by her friend, Betsy.
Quick stats: mother of 3 - one teen and two in their 20s.
"She deserves to be celebrated because she would never acknowledge that who she is and what she does, is extraordinary."
Read more: http://danajacksonphotography.com/dana.txt
Contestant #2
Tre C - nominated by her husband, David.
Quick Stats: mom to 1 child - under 6 months old.
"She is a wonderful mother, who wants all the best for our son and a wonderful wife who is willing to do anything for me."
Read more: http://danajacksonphotography.com/tre.txt
Contestant #3
Jessica E - nominated by her husband, Andrew.
Quick stats: mom to 2 - ages 1 and 3
"Just thinking of what she does for our kids motivates me to be a better father."
Read more: http://danajacksonphotography.com/jessica.txt
Contestant #4
Liz G - nominated by her friend, Jessica
Quick stats: mom to one 3yr old son.
"Above all, I think that Liz winning this contest would mean that she would be putting herself first for once. That is the greatest prize of all."
Read more: http://danajacksonphotography.com/liz.txt
Contestant #5
Sun Ye H - nominated by her daughter, Victoria.
Quick stats: 2 grown children, 1 grandchild.
"I am so proud to call her my mom! Her example of motherhood is one that I will strive to live up to for the rest of my life!"
Read more: http://danajacksonphotography.com/sun_ye.txt
Contestant #6
Elizabeth J (Beth J) - nominated by her sister-in-law, Elizabeth.
Quick stats: mom to 3 - 17, 16, and 12.
"Beth's unselfish nature has required her to save her pennies for her kids and not spend on herself. The pampering gifts you offered would be a fabulous way to give back to such a compassionate lady who is so deserving."
Read more: http://danajacksonphotography.com/elizabeth.txt
Contestant #7
Jennifer K - nominated by her son, JB.
Quick stats: mom to 5 - ages 4-18.
"She is a constant insperation to me and the rest of us. We want her to be recognized as who she is, a truly awsome mom."
Read more: http://danajacksonphotography.com/jennifer.txt
Contestant #8
Sandra M - nominated by her daughter, Jaimee.
Quick stats: mom to 18yr old twins
"I think of my mom as one of my best friends and someone I can always come to for anything.....she lifts me up when I'm down, mends my broken heart, and always has advice to give. I thank her so much for it, and I thank God so much for her."
Read more: http://danajacksonphotography.com/sandra.txt
Contestant #9
Jenn T - nominated by her husband, David.
Quick stats: mom to two boys - ages 2 and 3.5
"I am truly amazed at the balance she is able to provide to our family. Jenn is the most energetic and unselfish person that I have ever met."
Read more: http://danajacksonphotography.com/jenn.txt
Contestant #10
Brenda W - nominated by her daughter, Melissa.
Quick stats: mom to 4 grown children - "grammie" to 3 - ages 1-5
"She is also a wonderful "grammie" to my kids and gives them more love and attention than a child could ever imagine-even if she has just worked all night long and hasn't slept yet!"
Read more: http://danajacksonphotography.com/brenda.txt
Contestant #11
Allyson Y - nominated by her mom, Connie.
Quick stats: mom to two - ages 5months and 5 years.
"As a daughter, I see love, mercy, caring, and all the characteristics of God in her! Just simply by the way she lives."
Read more: http://danajacksonphotography.com/allyson.txt