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The Bible talks a lot about the "heavenly host", "LORD of Hosts", "host of heaven", "heaven's armies", etc., depending on the translation. The Old Testament has many references about gods and God. While there is One God, maker of heaven and earth, who established a relationship with the nation of Israel, the Biblical writers clearly reference the other "gods."
This phrasing freaks modern people out. If you use the biblical language to talk about other gods, modern people will start to hyperventilate and talk about how you're a polytheist. They see "gods" in scripture and declare that really, the passage is talking about "men." Not kidding. Had a discussion on Facebook where the "gods" in Psalm 82 were declared vehemently by many people to be "humans."
If they were humans, the writer would have indicated that. Instead, the writer indicated "gods." And that's not the only place. "Gods" is the correct translation in over 200 instances, in the English Standard Version translation. In many cases, the writer has in mind specific spiritual entities that people were worshiping and which had actual power. They are spirits and they are not God, but being worshipped, they were called gods. Moses plainly states in Deut 32 that these "gods" are demons. 1
When I reference "divine beings", I always mean entities that reside naturally in the spirit realm. And yet people often argue, "there are no such thing as divine beings. There's only God."
Yes, there is God. And there are other spirit beings that reside in heaven and in the spirit realm: divine beings.
The Bible Can Be Trusted
Here's an idea: let's take the bible on it's terms, instead of projecting our modern ideas onto it. The Bible reveals an amazing amount of information about the spirit world; fully a third of it involves visions and dreams: stuff recorded by Seers!
What the Bible reveals about the spirit world and God's sovereignty goes a long way to helping us understand the spiritual authority God has delegated to humans (particularly Christians) on the earth, as well as the authority he had delegated to other spiritual powers in the past.
Here's a great introductory article about these concepts. As you read it, allow your mind to be transported to another time, another place, a different culture, a different worldview. Not a superstitious worldview, but one which embraced the reality of the spirit realm… a realm which seers can sometimes peer into. Thanks to Logos Bible Software for making this article available, and to Cris Putnam who pointed it out to me.
The Divine Assembly
E. T. Mullen Jr., "Divine Assembly," ABD 2:214–17; idem, The Divine Council in Canaanite and Early Hebrew Literature (Chico, CA: Scholars Press, 1980).
The Bible presents us with an earthly world and a heavenly world, two interconnected-and sometimes indistinguishable-stages on which the biblical drama takes place. The view of the heavenly world focuses primarily on the divine throne room and related elements of divine royalty. This is the imagery of transcendence adapted by the Bible from its cultural environment. The gods of the ancient Near East were not spoken of in abstract terms-as theologians today might speak of divine sovereignty, omnipotence, omnipresence or aseity-they were vividly imaged in the language of kingship and warfare, love and fertility, house building and banqueting. And so also for Israel, to "do" theology was to tell God's story and to fashion images and metaphors that both rightly described their subject and engaged the imagination. The theologians of the Bible-its poets and prophets, chroniclers and sages-borrowed, refashioned and subverted the images and symbols of the gods of their neighboring cultures. Their audiences expected to be offered glimpses of the heavenly court as a means of understanding the ways of God.
The Divine Assembly in its Cultural Setting. In Mesopotamian and Canaanite religion it was customary to speak of the high gods as kingly figures. Such a god was imagined to be enthroned in a heavenly palace (on which his earthly temple was modeled). The god had a heavenly assembly, or council, a deliberative body invested with the task of guiding the fate of the cosmos (see Cosmology). In the Mesopotamian myth of Enuma Elish, the gods are presided over by the high god Anu. In a Canaanite texts from Ugarit, we find the high god El presiding over the major and minor gods and addressing them as "gods" or "my sons." Israel speaks of Yahweh as a heavenly king who presides over his council. But in the OT we find the status of the "gods" subverted, for they are demoted to subservient figures, frequently called angels or spirits.
The dwelling place of God is imaged as a cosmic mountain, which in Canaanite mythology is Mount Zaphon in north Syria, the dwelling place of the gods. Isaiah condemns the hubris of the king of Babylon as he deigns to set his throne "on the mount of assembly in the far north" and make himself "like the Most High" (Is 14:13 RSV). In the OT, God has chosen Zion as the site for his temple-palace. As the earthly counterpart to his heavenly dwelling place, Zion is called the "holy mountain of God" (Ezek 28:14, 16). It is "beautiful in elevation, … the joy of all the earth, Mount Zion, in the far north, the city of the great King" (Ps 48:2 RSV; cf. Ps 46:4). Thus in the biblical imagination the Canaanite mountain of the gods is displaced and the status of "holy mountain" and "mount of the assembly" is transferred to Zion. If Zion's present elevation is admittedly not as grand as Mount Hermon and other mountains to the north, in the last days "the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established as the highest of the mountains" (Is 2:2–4; Mic 4:1–3 RSV). Since it is the seat of the divine assembly, "out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem" and from there God "shall judge between the nations" (Is 2:3–4; Mic 4:2–3 RSV).
The divine assembly is the celestial counterpart to the social institution of the "elders in the gate" (e.g., Deut 21:19; Ruth 4:1–11; Ps 107:32; Prov 31:23). It is a board of advisors or counselors with whom the supreme deity consults, an "assembly of the holy ones" (Ps 98:5). In context of war, its members can be called the "hosts," or "army" of heaven, who engage in divine warfare under the "Lord of Hosts" (see Divine Warrior). Psalm 82 evokes the scene of the divine assembly: "God has taken his place in the divine council; in the midst of the gods he holds judgment" (Ps 82:1 RSV). But in this case God is displeased with the members of the divine assembly. The assembly cowers as God hauls them onto the royal carpet: "How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked?" (Ps 82:2 RSV). For their heedlessness toward the weak and needy as well as their other shortcomings, God pronounces judgment on them: "I said, 'You are "gods"; you are all sons of the Most High.' But you will die like mere men; you will fall like every other ruler" (Ps 82:6–7 NIV).
Divine Assembly and Prophetic Messengers. The story of the prophet Micaiah ben Imlah in 1 Kings 22 offers a fascinating glimpse of deliberation within the heavenly council. On the earthly plane, Ahab, the king of Israel, is deliberating with Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, over whether they should attack Ramoth Gilead. They inquire of the fawning court prophets, who heartily agree that they should attack. But then they inquire of Micaiah, who is always heedless of the party line, Micaiah speaks of his vision of the divine council:
"I saw the Lord sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing beside him on his right hand and on his left; and the Lord said, 'Who will entice Ahab, that he may go up and fall at Ramoth-Gilead?' And one said one thing, and another said another. Then a spirit came forward and stood before the Lord, saying, 'I will entice him.' And the Lord said to him, 'By what means?' And he said, 'I will go forth, and will be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets.' And he said, 'You are to entice him, and you shall succeed; go forth and do so.' " (1 Kings 22:19–22 RSV)
This imagery of the prophet having access to the divine council-and being a messenger for the council-clarifies the "call" scene of the prophet Isaiah. In Isaiah 6 the prophet has a vision of "the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and his train filled the temple" (Is 6:1 RSV). Here the earthly temple provides entrance to the heavenly temple (complete with marvelous creatures attending the throne), and the heavenly kingship of Yahweh is juxtaposed with the earthly kingship of Uzziah (Is 6:1). Struck by the wondrous sight of Yahweh the king and overcome with a sense of personal and corporate sin, Isaiah receives forgiveness. He then hears the Lord deliberating before his council: "Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?" The response comes not from a "god" within the divine assembly but from Isaiah himself, "Here I am! Send me." And the Lord responds, "Go, and say to this people …" (Is 6:8–9 RSV). Likewise we should perhaps understand Isaiah 40:1–2-"Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem" (RSV)—as words uttered by Yahweh to the heralds assembled in divine council. The voice of the heavenly herald then cries out, "In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord" (Is 40:3 RSV).
The Assembly of Gods and Angels. It is clear that the Bible does not regard the "gods" of the divine assembly as peers of God: "There is none like thee among the gods, O Lord" (Ps 86:8 RSV; cf. Ps 135:5). "For who in the skies can be compared to the Lord? Who among the heavenly beings is like the Lord, a God feared in the council of the holy ones, great and terrible above all that are round about him?" (Ps 89:6–7 RSV; cf. Ps 29:1; 97:7; 138:1). Although among Israel's neighbors these gods were clearly regarded as deities, later Judaism came to speak of them as high-ranking angels. In keeping with this view, the LXX often translates these "sons of God" or even "gods" as angels (Deut 32:8; Ps 8:5; 138:1 [LXX 137:1]). The NT often follows the LXX, so that "thou hast made him a little less than God" (or "gods," Ps 8:5) appears as "a little lower than the angels" in Hebrews 2:7.
In the book of Job the divine assembly plays a role near the outset. It provides the background for understanding "the Satan" who enters on "a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord" (Job 1:6 RSV). In Job, Satan is not presented as the evil spiritual being we come to know in the NT but as one who plays a legal role in the heavenly court as "the accuser." Even though he is not loyal to God, Satan, by virtue of his rank as a divine being, is permitted to appear at meetings of the council on a day when "the sons of God" come to present themselves before the Lord (Job 1:6; 2:1). Satan's role as "accuser" requires this (Zech 3:1; Rev 12:10).
Another picture of the divine council is offered in Daniel 7. Here the scene is more highly developed. The council assembles for judgment of the great empires of the earth, depicted as dreadful monsters. As Daniel "looks" in his vision, he sees "thrones" placed and the "ancient of days," with raiment "white as snow" and hair "like pure wool" taking his seat on a throne of "fiery flames, its wheels … burning with fire" and issuing forth "a stream of fire" (Dan 7:9–10 RSV). The council is attended by a stunning myriad of heavenly beings: "a thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him" (Dan 7:10 RSV). Their business is to render judgment, and the books are opened. The result is that the dominion of the beasts is taken away, with the final beast causing a great commotion and then being executed (Dan 7:11). Then, on a cloud chariot, "one like a son of man" arrives at the assembly. This being, representing the "saints of the Most High" (Dan 7:27 RSV), is honored by the council with universal and eternal sovereignty (Dan 7:14). When the scene concludes, Daniel, his head spinning from the spectacle, approaches one of those standing in the assembly and inquires about the meaning of this event. A full explanation ensues (Dan 7:15–28). This fully elaborated vision of the divine assembly is a prototype for many later scenes of divine assembly and throne room in Jewish apocalyptic literature.
The Divine Assembly in the New Testament. In the NT the inner circle of the divine assembly consists of angels who surround the heavenly throne. The primary theme is worship, and there is an implied understanding that the worship of the church mirrors the worship of heaven. In Colossians 2:18 Paul exhorts the Colossian believers not to be influenced by those who place heavy demands on their access to the "worship of angels," that is, the heavenly worship conducted by angels within the heavenly assembly (this meaning is more likely than "worship directed toward angels"). Paul warns against those who advocate a rigorous asceticism that purports to offer access to this heavenly worship (Col 2:20–23). Instead, Paul uses the imagery of believers being "raised with Christ" and setting their hearts on "things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God" (Col 3:1 NIV). Paul reminds the Philippians of their heavenly citizenship (Phil 3:20) and the Ephesians are blessed "in the heavenly realms" (Eph 1:3), for "God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus" (Eph 2:6 NIV).
But the divine assembly is most fully developed in the book of Revelation. In Revelation 4–5 the seer enters the heavenly throne room where he first observes God the Father seated on a throne and attended by four living creatures who ceaselessly sing his praise (Rev 4:6–8). In a further circle around the throne are twenty-four thrones (Rev 4:4) on which are seated twenty-four elders, angelic figures who fall down in reverence and cast their crowns before the throne, singing of the glory and majesty of God. In the hand of the one seated on the throne is a scroll that no one is worthy to open except for a Lamb "as though it had been slain" (RSV), standing between the throne and the circle of four living creatures (Rev 5:5–7).
The Lamb receives the same worship from the heavenly assembly as does the one on the throne, and the assembly enlarges to include angels "numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands" and then to encompass the entire cosmos as "every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all therein" join in the heavenly praise (Rev 5:11, 13 RSV). In a further scene we find 144,000 martyrs "who have come through the great tribulation" (Rev 7:14 RSV) joining the heavenly praise as they stand before the throne and the Lamb, praising God and the Lamb (Rev 7:9–12). In Revelation 14:1–5 the 144,000 appear again as a great army of saints accompanying the Lamb on Mount Zion.
The divine assembly in Revelation 4–5 is highly developed and transformed in comparison with the scenes we find in the OT, with its closest point of contact being Daniel 7. The emphasis on heavenly worship, is recapitulated in Revelation 19:1–8, though the motif of deliberation is present with the question of who will open the scroll (Rev 5:2–5) and takes more prominence in the judgment scene of Revelation 20. There we learn of "thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority to judge" (Rev 20:4 NIV) and of a judgment that takes place before a "great white throne" (Rev 20:11–15). These heavenly assemblies are intimately linked to the destiny of the earth, its inhabitants and the spiritual world. Here, as in the OT, what transpires in the heavenly council has great consequences for the course of cosmic events.
See also Angel; Assembly, Human; Divine Warrior; Gods, Goddesses; Judgment; Prophet, Prophetess; Royal Court; Worship.
OT OT. Old Testament
- RSV RSV. Revised Standard Version
- cf. cf.. compare
- e.g. e.g.. for example
- NIV NIV. New International Version
- LXX LXX. Septuagint (Greek translation of the Old Testament)
- NT NT. New Testament
- ABD ABD. Anchor Bible Dictionary
- Leland Ryken, Jim Wilhoit, Tremper Longman et al., Dictionary of Biblical Imagery, electronic ed. (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2000, c1998), 50.
- Some ancient Hebrew words in certain contexts are confusing, with respect to if they refer to living humans, giants, or demons or other kinds of spirits (the Hebrew word rephaim, for instance), and I certainly have nothing to add to that scholarly discussion. ↩


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Jack Dowman, 84, was a mostly behind-the-scene volunteer. He was involved with government and service groups. He supported the school music programs, and for 10 years he organized the annual Eastham Windmill Weekend Parade. And he did it all just so he could help.
"He was that kind of a guy who would do anything he could to help anybody," said his friend and fellow Rotary Club member, Dick Morello. "That's what we loved about him."
Morello describes Dowman as a cut-up, always quick with a joke and always ready to laugh. But ask him about his wife, Morello says, and he was all business, telling you about the most amazing person he'd ever met.
"He loved his wife. Oh my god, he praised his wife. Oh he couldn't say enough good about Ginette, … 'Oh, she's fantastic, best things that ever happened to me.' He would tell stories about when he was courting her."
Dowman made friends easily, and he held onto them. In fact, he still me regularly with the fellas he grew up in back in Connecticut, some 70 years ago.
This is a partial transcript. You can hear the full story by clicking the LISTEN button.

subset: commoncrawl


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Hello Stranger!
It's been a long time since I've been here. Things are the same, yet so very different. I was sure we were on the road to a great marriage. Now, I feel like we are sliding right back into the same old patterns. I love him. I love the way we were a year ago. … More Hello Stranger!


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Home : Travel : Bangalore : One section
We first made this trip on July 17th. A few weeks later, we revisited all these places with two of our colleagues who wanted to see some of the country around Bangalore. I combined pictures from both trips on this page.
On our second weekend we went to Ramohalli, another popular place about 28 km west of Bangalore. It is famous for a giant, 400 year old Banyan tree. This one spreads over an area of 3 acres!
You approach the tree over a typical Indian country road. The road actually curves around the giant tree. From the bend in the road you have a good view of the entire tree. It is really hard to believe that this is a single tree.
The entire tree is fenced in and you enter through a gate. A friendly guide leads you around and provides useful information, for a fee of course. Nothing in India is for free! At the end of the tour, we offered Rs. 20 only to learn that it actually cost Rs. 40.
The mother root of the tree appears to be entirely disconnected from the rest. It is not very impressing by itself.
Outside you can buy the usual refreshments. Very interesting was a very small hut with some movie posters on the outside where you can buy fruit. The Godzilla poster actually says on the bottom Size does matter.
In the distance we could see a few hills and we asked the driver to bring us there. His answer was "Damn!". We thought he didn't want to bring us there and asked again. Again he answered "Damn!". But we got into the car anyway and started driving into the direction of the hills.
When we came closer we could see a lake. As it turned out, it was a reservoir and we were near its dam. This was what our driver had said! We just didn't understand him.
We turned off the main road onto a scenic road along the side of the reservoir. Suddenly we could not go any further because the road was blocked by a film crew. We got out of the car and went to have a closer look.
The film crew was very friendly and allowed us to take a few pictures. They explained that the movie was actually shot at different locations and the real work was already finished. They were just shooting a few takes to patch-up some scenes where the light wasn't right.
The movie is called Maya Bazaar and is due to come out this fall. We got a picture of us with the new hero, Kumar Govinda, and a stunt man. Later somebody told us that Kumar Govinda is a famous local actor.
Rudi remembered that the movie Passage to India was shot somewhere near Bangalore. So we asked the film crew and they told us, that it was shot close by, in Ramanagaram.
So we headed there and on the way we came through a few very small villages where time must have stood still for a few hundred years. It seemed that the inhabitants do not see cars very often even though the bus comes through on a regular schedule.
In some of these villages we could see wooden constructions with silkworms in them. Silkworms feed only on mulberry leaves which grow here in abundance.
A few times we had to drive through big piles of hay that were dried on the street.
Soon the landscape changed and we saw big granite hills on both sides of the road. These were the hills we were looking for. But where was the place Passage to India was shot?
Our driver brought us to a place were we could climb up some 400 stairs to a temple atop one of those granite hills. We had to stop about every 50 stairs to catch our breath and to admire the surroundings.
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11.04.2017 14:49
Newly published:
The issue contains among others:
TEICHLER, Ulrich; JUNG, Jisun (2016): Graduate Employment and Higher Education in Asia. pp. 129–134.
TEICHLER, Ulrich (2016): The Professional Relevance of Study. pp. 135–161.
JUNG, Jisun; LEE, Soo Jeung (2016): Impact of Internship on Job Performance among University Graduates in South Korea. pp. 250–284.


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Schedule at a Glance
Education Information
Session Descriptions
Industry Workshops
Exhibit Information
ENGAGE Exhibit Info
AIMS Exhibit Info
Speaker Profiles
Hotel & Travel
Speaker Resources
AIMS Information
Session Descriptions - AIMS
Exhibitor Information - AIMS
May 30 - June 1
San Antonio, Texas
Register Now!
Exhibitor/Sponsor Information
Why Should you ENGAGE by Exhibiting at the
2019 Annual Meeting?
Year after year South Central brings together individuals from the blood banking and transfusion medicine industry for the networking and educational event of the year. Luckily for you over half of our attendees are involved in the purchasing process! Come face-to-face with these decision makers and take advantage of this opportunity to showcase your new or existing products and services.
Exhibitor Set-up: Friday, May 31 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Exhibit Dates/Times: Friday, May 31 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Saturday, June 1 9:45 AM – 11:15 AM
Exhibitor Tear-down: Saturday, June 1 2:30 PM
Exhibitor Feedback
Meeting: Saturday, June 1 2:30 PM
SCABB attracts decision makers from across the industry.
-- CEO's/Medical Directors: 21%
-- Directors/Managers: 40%
-- Supervisors/Coordinators: 8%
-- Technologist/Technicians: 6%
-- Other : 25% (Scientists, Physicians, Specialists, Students)
Exhibit Agreement Form deadline: December 14, 2018
(for priority booth placement)
Personnel Registration: April 15, 2019*
Hotel Booking deadline : May 7, 2019
*PLEASE NOTE: Due to the limited time and ability to produce badges the week of the event and on-site, South Central has instituted a $50 badge fee. Any booth personnel, even personnel included in your complimentary allotment, registered after the cut-off date will be charged this fee. Please be sure to register your personnel by April 15, 2019.
Exhibit Hall Map
Basic Booth Package
10 X 10 booth furnished with an 8 ft. draped/skirted table, 2 chairs, wastebasket and ID sign
2 complimentary booth personnel registrations* with full access to educational sessions, the SCABB Membership Mixer and the President's Award Luncheon.
Pre and post attendee registration lists
Complimentary and additional registered personnel are included in meal functions
Company listing including 35-word description on the annual meeting mobile app
*PLEASE NOTE: Complimentary personnel MUST be registered by April 15, 2019. Any personnel, including complimentary personnel, will be charged a $50 fee for late personnel registration.
At South Central we build
an all-inclusive experience.
educational sessions
lunch for exhibitor personnel
basic booth furnishings
ALL this is included with
your booth!
Additional Booth Space
Super-size your exhibit with an additional 10 x 10 booth space and 2 additional booth personnel with full conference access
ELITE Meeting Partners
Community Project
Offered for the first time in 2016, the Community Outreach project was a HUGE success! Attendees were energetic about the opportunity to give back to the community and this was made possible in part by an amazing sponsor. The Community Outreach sponsorship includes:
Company logo on t-shirts given to Community Outreach attendees.
Recognition of sponsorship on Community Outreach transportation.
Enhanced recognition of sponsorship in meeting collateral.
additional booth personnel registrations.
South Texas Blood & Tissue
Elite Meeting Partners are our highest level of support and benefits provide your company maximum
(booth not included)
Engage Party
Don't miss the opportunity to sponsor this high energy, networking stoked, social event of the Meeting. The sponsor will hold the majority of the tickets and attendees will be encouraged to visit your booth to obtain a ticket to this exclusive event. The ENGAGE Party sponsorship includes:
Tickets customized with sponsor logo. Attendees have to come to your booth to get a ticket!
Time onstage to welcome attendees to the party!
Recognition of sponsorship on meeting collateral.
4 additional booth personnel registrations.
QualTex Laboratories
PREMIUM Meeting Partners
Attendee Notebooks
Put your logo front and center on notebooks given to all registered attendees to carry at the meeting and beyond.
Company logo on notebooks.
Recognition of sponsorship on the mobile app and meeting collateral.
Mix and Mingle Exhibit Opening Reception
Support this high energy networking experience as we merge the always fun Rock your Ribbon challenge from the Membership Mixer with the opening of our Exhibit Hall.
Attendees will receive custom drink tickets with your logo!
Recognition of sponsorship on mobile app and meeting collateral.
Premium Meeting Partnerships provide complete meeting exposure with long lasting promotional items to keep your company in front of attendees during and even after the conference.
(booth not included)
Hydration Partner
Partner with us to help attendees
stay hydrated!
Your company logo featured on water bottles given to attendees.
Logo on water stations throughout the conference areas.
Recognition of sponsorship on mobile app and meeting collateral.
ADVANCED Meeting Partners
President's Award Luncheon
Help us celebrate and recognize those who have given so much to our industry and their community.
Logo reflecting sponsorship on Awards Program
Recognition of sponsorship on mobile app and meeting collateral.
Abbott Diagnostics
Advanced Meeting Partnerships help defray a small portion of the meeting costs affording the ability to maintain low attendee registration costs while still creating an overall fun and educational experience for all.
(booth not included).
Exhibit Hall Morning Boost
Sponsor this energizing exhibit break as attendees get their morning boost from your international coffee bar. The perfect way to drive traffic to your booth!
Attendees will receive drinks served with your logo!
International Coffee Bar placed near your booth.
Recognition of sponsorship on mobile app and meeting collateral.
Attendee Lanyards
Put your logo front and center on bags given to all registered attendees to carry at the meeting and beyond.
Company logo on attendee bags.
Recognition of sponsorship on the mobile app and meeting collateral.
Creative Testing Solutions
Breakfast Industry Workshops
Intended to educate attendees on subjects such as customer implementation of new products or technical presentations on new methods or products, Industry Workshops are a great opportunity to gain the undivided attention of your target audience in a more personal environment.
(Must be educational in nature and should not be used as a sales or marketing opportunity)
Industry Workshops this year will be offered during breakfast and will take place on either Friday, May 31st or Saturday, June 1st from
7:00 AM - 8:30 AM. Breakfast Industry Workshop fee includes:
Networking and breakfast from 7:00 AM to 7:30 AM with
(Workshops fee includes breakfast for attendees)
Company presentation from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM
Podium, microphone, screen, and projector are provided
(additional equipment will be at the expense of the sponsor)
Enhance your Meeting Exposure
Beverage Breaks
5 Sponsorships Offered @ $1,000
If you don't see a package that meets your budget or marketing goals please reach out! We'd love to work with you to create a custom package that meets your company's needs.
Sponsor will receive recognition of support on meeting mobile app and on signage during all beverage breaks.
Vendor Supported Scholarships
Unlimited Sponorships Offered @ $385
Company, as well as personal, budgets are getting tighter every year. Employers are finding it harder to send employees to educational offerings leaving it up to the individual to fund themselves. You can help bring more attendees to the conference which means more potential clients for yourself!
Click the button below to complete your online exhibit agreement. For questions please contact Ashley Combs at (866) 649-6550 or
[email protected]
Register Now
Terms & Agreement
There's no pretty way to put this - the fine print is a snooze fest! But it does include important details you'll need in order to have a smooth and profitable exhibit show.
Booth Assignments
- A copy of the floor plan will be available December of 2018. Exhibit space will be assigned in the order in which paid agreement forms are submitted. If there is a conflict, the vendor partner with the longest history of continuous support of the Association will be given priority if the request is received by the deadline for contracts which is December 14, 2018.
SCABB will include a brief description of services offered by exhibitors on the Annual Meeting mobile app. To guarantee inclusion in the mobile app, the 35-word description must accompany the contract and arrive by the contract deadline.
Booth Occupancy Policy
- If two or more divisions of the same company wish to exhibit together, they many exhibit under one company name. All Exhibitor personnel badges and Exhibitor Directory listings will be conducted in one name only. The contact person completing the Exhibitor Prospectus Agreement is deemed the official booth representative and must coordinate all booth activities. The parent company must notify SCABB Show Management of all Exhibitors who fall under the same parent company in writing by March 1 prior to the opening of the current year's show. The company is limited to a maximum of one sharing company for a 10'x10' booth and a maximum of three sharing companies for island booths 10' x 20'. At the time of booth reservation, the Exhibiting company will assign a primary booth contact that will receive communications of important deadlines and one primary booth contact that will be able to submit ordering forms. The total booth fee will be split equally per company, unless otherwise requested during the booth reservation process.
Terms and Conditions
By registering and exhibiting at the 2019 SCABB Annual Meeting you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.
Booth Specifications
- Booth spaces are 10' x 10', and furnished with a 7" x 44" identification sign, a wastebasket, one draped/skirted table and two chairs. Exhibitors may order, at their own expense, furnishings, utility connections and other services using order forms that the decorator will provide in the Exhibitor's Service Kit. If selecting multiple booths, booth numbers MUST BE in consecutive orders (e.g. 203 & 204, or 304 & 305, etc.) There will be no end caps, walls, partitions, decorations, or other obstructions that may be erected which in any way interfere with the view of any other exhibitor. No Exhibit will be permitted to span any aisle with ceiling or floor covering. Please note: The Exhibit Hall is fully carpeted.
Exhibitor Services
- The official show decorator will provide Exhibitor Services Kit for this show by March of 2019. Show Management will distribute this kit to all contracted exhibitors via their primary contact's email address. The kit will contain complete information on show rules and regulations, installation and dismantling of Exhibits and services such as carpentry, drayage, signs, carpet, furniture rental, utility services and cleaning. The kit will also include other valuable information to assist you in preparing for the show. A decorator service area in the Exhibit Hall will be available to process on-site orders for services.
- Freight is handled through the decorator. Complete shipping instructions will be included in the Exhibitor Services Kit.
Installation and Removal
- Exhibit installation must be complete no later than 3:00 pm on Friday,
May 31
and remain open during the show hours. Tear down of Exhibits prior to 2:30 pm on Saturday June 1st is prohibited. The Exhibit Hall will be available for Exhibitor setup as outlined. SCABB meeting management will assign labor to any Exhibitor that is not in the process of being installed by
2:00 pm Friday, May 31st
. Labor charges will apply and will be paid by the Exhibitor. The official decorator will be available to install and remove Exhibits. There are certain exclusive contractors with specific responsibilities for services such as electrical, drayage, plumbing and cleaning with which Exhibitors must contract. SCABB reserves the right to deny space to any company whose representation is objectionable to the Association.
Copyright Laws
- Copyright laws forbid the playing of music in any form at the Annual Meeting without paying a fee to, or obtaining the permission of, the composer. Any Exhibitor providing music in an Exhibit booth or hospitality/social event is responsible for obtaining the appropriate music licensing for such activities.
Insurance Liability
- If the Exhibitor wishes to insure its property, it must be done so at their own expense. Exhibitors are advised to have a representative in their booth at all times. The South Central Association of Blood Banks will provide a secure Exhibit hall during off hours. SCABB will not be responsible for any damage or loss of Exhibitors' property from fire, theft, water or any other cause. SCABB will take reasonable measures to protect the property against such loss. It is expressly understood that by signing the Exhibitor/Advertising Agreement the Exhibitor agrees to accept the rules stated herein and will make no claim of any kind against SCABB or any of its officers, agents, servants or employees. Exhibitors will be fully responsible to pay for any and all damages to property owned by the Grand Hyatt San Antonio, its owners or managers, which results from any act or omission of Exhibitor. Exhibitor agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the Grand Hyatt San Antonio, its owners, managers, officers or directors, agents, employees, subsidiaries and affiliates from any damages or charges resulting from exhibitor's use of property. Exhibitor's liability includes all losses, costs, damages or expenses arising from or out of or by reason of any accident or bodily injury or other occurrences to any person or person, including the Exhibitor, its agents, employees and business invitees which arise from or out of the Exhibitor's occupancy and use of the exhibition premises, the Grand Hyatt San Antonio or any part thereof.
Infectious or Dangerous Materials
- No Exhibitor shall display or bring onto the premises any substance or material which is bio-hazardous, infectious or dangerous to the health, safety or well-being of attendees.
Telephone and Internet Service
- Wireless Internet Service will be available in the Exhibit Hall. However, Exhibitors must use their own providers to connect at their own cost.
Fire Regulations
- All materials used in the Exhibit Hall must be non-flammable to conform to the fire regulations of the city. Electrical wiring and equipment installation must conform to appropriate city codes. Material not conforming to such regulations will be removed immediately at the Exhibitor's expense.
- Adequate space should be available within the confines of the individual Exhibitor's booth for demonstrations. Infringement on other booths or interference with normal traffic flow is not permitted.
Non-Contracted Exhibit Space
- No person, firm or organization not having contracted with the SCABB Meeting Management for the occupancy of space in the Exhibit Hall will be permitted to display or demonstrate any products, processes or services, solicit orders or distribute advertising materials in the Grand Hyatt San Antonio or Annual Meeting contracted hotels. Any non-compliance with this regulation will result in the prompt removal of the offending person and property from the area.
General Conduct
- The Exhibitor is permitted to demonstrate the firm's equipment and to make formal presentations regarding the product line or service in the booth. "Hard sell" sales tactics are considered inappropriate. Attention getting devices in the form of entertainment or amusement are strictly prohibited. The exhibit hall must be staffed during all open hours. Packing of equipment materials or the Exhibit cannot begin until after 5:00 pm, on Saturday, June 4th. The strike schedule is strictly enforced.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
- All cancellations must be made in writing to SCABB Meeting Management. A cancellation fee of 50% of the Exhibitor fee will be assessed for all cancellations received prior to Friday, March 29, 2019. Cancellations after March 29, 2019 will receive no refund. Any refunds due to an exhibitor as a result of cancellation will be made within 30 days post show.
Meeting Cancellation
- It is mutually agreed that, in the event of cancellation of the Annual Meeting due to fire, strikes, government regulations or causes that would prevent its scheduled opening or continuance, then and thereupon this agreement shall be terminated. The South Central Association of Blood Banks' Planning Committee shall determine an equitable basis for the refund of such portion of the exhibitor fees as is possible after consideration of expenditures and commitments already made.
Hospitality Suites/Vendor Demonstrations/Classes
- Hospitality suites must be approved by the South Central Association of Blood Banks. Vendor
demonstrations and/or classes must be presented in the forum of Industry Workshops. See the Industry Workshop details in this guide for specifics on hosting an Industry Workshop. All other demonstrations and/or classes are prohibited.
Exhibitor's Participation
- Exhibitors are encouraged to attend the educational programs offered at the Annual Meeting. Registration, for a maximum of 2 Exhibit personnel is complimentary and includes educational sessions and social functions of the meeting.
In-Booth Drawings
- The Annual Meeting Exhibits Committee will facilitate an "Exhibit Traffic Plan" activity that will include drawings/ give-away at each Exhibitor's booth. Details will be included in your Exhibitor Services Kit.
Hotel Accommodations
- The Grand Hyatt San Antonio, is the headquarter hotel for the 2019 Annual Meeting for the South Central Association of Blood Banks. Conference rates are available to meeting attendees and Exhibitor personnel based on availability. The education sessions and exhibit area are all located at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio.
Booth Personnel Registration
- Due to the limited time and ability to produce badges the week of the event and on-site, South Central has instituted a $50 badge fee. Any booth personnel, even personnel included in your complimentary allotment, registered after the cut-off date will be charged this fee. Please be sure to register your personnel by April 15, 2019.
Name Change & On-Site Booth Personnel Registration -
There will be a $50.00 charge for each booth personnel name badge changed onsite. Each Exhibiting company receives (2) complimentary booth personnel but they MUST BE REGISTERED IN ADVANCE to avoid the on-site registration fee.


text:
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text:
Fish, bait and tackle shop in Grand Marais
Last day for now in USA, heading towards Canada, We took the bikes out and took a tour to Grand Marais. Its only 10 miles. You have to stop on the way an get some donuts in the worlds graetest donuts shop, or some white fish as we did to.
The donuts shop keeps record over their guest and countries and it turned out that we where the second couple from Iceland to visit them.
Type of camping:
State Park


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There are numerous ways to get involved with the Gwinnett Republican Party. See our Events page for upcoming events, including our monthly Breakfast Rallies, select the best Party membership level, select whether you want to volunteer for upcoming events or elections or donate to support the party. However you want to be involved we look forward to working with you.
Sign up below for email and or text messages so we can keep you informed of events, activities and news.


text: DigitalNew Edelman Advisor: 'PR Needs to Grow Up'By Patrick Coffee|September 30, 2013 ShareBy Patrick Coffee|September 30, 2013 Share Back in March, Edelman advisor Steve Rubel told us that upcoming PR professionals need to "look at the bigger picture" and "orient [themselves] toward both creating and distributing content". The firm's newest tech advisor Burghardt Tenderich recently gave The Holmes Report a more direct version of that statement:"PR needs to grow up and become real content creators."Edelman picked Tenderich, who is an Associate Professor/Associate Director of the Strategic Communication and Public Relations Center at USC Annenberg, to advise clients tech clients; his specialty will be "transmedia storytelling" campaigns like this one which include both paid and earned media across platforms.The quote may seem obvious now, but remember that Edelman was a little late to the paid content game. The firm's sponsored content partnership with Reuters on Twitter had a bit of a rocky reception, but we'll be watching to see exactly how they put Tenderich and Rubel's statements into action.*Photo via Edelman Digital Sharehttp://adweek.it/2jIXmQ8 copy Adweek Adweek


text: Our Staff You will receive the highest level of service from the finest therapists, manicurist, makeup artists. Our exceptional staff of attentive and caring professionals is genuinely dedicated to your satisfaction. Cosmetologists - Hair Specialists: Allison DanielsManaging/Master Cosmetologist Carly BarrAveda Specialist/Cosmetologist Britnee BoydCosmetologist/Hair Katie PaytonCosmetologist/Hair Megan PughsCosmetologist/Hair Estheticians - Skin Care Specialists: Nancy TaylorMaster Esthetician Dawn DiehlMaster Esthetician Callie GregoryMaster Esthetician Jessica CordellEsthetician Morgan MillerEsthetician Nail Technicians: Jessica Cordell Kristopher Hubbard Katie Payton Megan Pugh Eye Lash Extensions/Make-up: Jane Iredale Massage Therapists: Treston Berryhill Sarah Childers Karlene Howard Marlee Holder Tres Mayeux Meredith Milner Barbara Rogers Vanessa Rogers Tony Simmons Kia Welborn Spa Coordinator/Event Planning: Kim McMullen Owner: Mary Virginia Best Reservations/Spa Etiquette | Cancellation Policy | Testimonials | Directions | Preferred Vendors


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David Luiz ban is a blow, he's been great since returning to Chelsea - Thibaut Courtois
CHELSEA star Thibaut Courtois has spoken out in the wake of David Luiz's dismissal against Arsenal.
The Brazilian centre-back has been one of the building blocks of Antonio Conte's success spell in west London since he returned from PSG last year, turning in solid performances week-in week-out.
But on Sunday he displayed the kind of rash play that saw him criticised during his first spell at Stamford Bridge.
Luiz clattered into Arsenal ace Sead Kolasinac after overrunning the ball and was promptly shown a straight red card by match referee Michael Oliver.
That sending off has resulted in a three-game ban for the 30-year-old - ruling him out of upcoming fixtures against Nottingham Forest, Stoke and Manchester City.
"It's a blow because David has been playing really well since he arrived last season"Chelsea stopper Thibaut Courtois gives his verdict on David Luiz's three-game ban
Luiz's Chelsea team-mate Courtois has now offered his take on the defender's impending suspension.
He said: "We play Forest in midweek so it's one less game in the Premier League, but the manager may have rotated David anyway.
"It's a blow because David has been playing really well since he arrived last season.
"He's a great player and a great leader but we have confidence in the other guys as well. He will be missed but we have good players on the bench."
With his ban only applicable to domestic competitions, Luiz will be in contention to feature in the Champions League showdown with Atletico Madrid on Wednesday September 27.
Chelsea kicked off their return to Europe's elite club competition with a 6-0 thrashing of Azerbaijani side Qarabag last week.


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"It'll be dead before you know it Slendy! I don't want you to be hurt!"
"No it won't ___! I'll make sure it loves me!"
"Why do you want one so bad anyway?"
"So I can dress it up in little suits like mine! And they're so small!"
"Slendy... are you sure you can care for one?"
"Yes ____... I really want one...."
There was a long (dramatic) pause.
"Fine. I'll get you a damn dog"
"YAYAYAYAY" Slendy began jumping up and down like an excited little girl.
"Calm down before you hit your head on the ceiling again!" You walked out to the pet store.
BEN Drowned
"Look! See that dog that keeps chasing me?! I want it so I can make it love me!"
BEN had been dying for the little dog in Majora's Mask even though it hated him.
"He's cute! .....How the hell are you gonna get it?"
"Like this!"
BEN hopped into the TV and in the blink of an eye the dog disappeared
and BEN was already climbingout of the TV with the cute little dog in his arms.
"BEN! He's adorable!"
"So we can keep him?"
Jeff the Killer
You were watching TV when Jeff walked in and sat next to you.
You saw something moving in the corner of your eye and turned to see a husky laying down on the floor.
"....Why is there a dog in the house?"
"That's Smile. He's my dog."
"OUR dog?"
"No....MY dog. and he's going to live with me." He wouldn't take his eyes off the TV.
"Just watch out at night cause he turns red and black and his eyes glow and his smile is five times scarier."
He warned. "No big deal."
You blinked a couple of times at him before turning back to the TV.
Eyeless Jack
"___! I'm going out to buy a dog!" He was already walking out the door.
"Let me get a dog."
"Yes. I want one."
"No Masky."
"Yes ____."
"No you aren't getting one."
"Yes I am getting one."
Before you could respond you heard the door close and he was already gone.
"Can I get a dog ___?"
"How big?"
"I want a big one... like a great dane."
"How about a german shepard?"
"Fine, I'll go get one."
He still came back with a great dane.
Lost Silver
"I want a dog...."
"Me too!"
"I want a big dog!"
"I want a small one!"
Silver thought for a moment. Red had told him to be more assertive.
"We are getting a big dog like it or not!"
You flicked him on the nose. "Small dog. Now."
"Yes dear...!" He quickly ran out and came back with a chocolate brown pomeranian.
"Damn...I wish Jeff hadn't taken Smile in, he's red!"
"Just go get your own dog!"
"I dont know what kind!"
"Your choice! Now go get a dog!" You lightly pushed him towards the door.
"Ok! Ok! I'm going!"
Dark Link
"I'm going to get a black dog."
"I don't care."
"He's gonna attack you when you get angry with me."
"He'll learn to ride a skateboard too."
"And he'll-" you cut him off.
"Just go get your damn dog already!"
He quickly ran out the door.
Laughing Jack
"Can I get a dog?"
"Great." He whistled and a puppy came out from the room behind him.
"Let's get a dog!"
"No, you'll kill it."
"Fine...But here are the rules... No "fixing" it when it's hurt."
He kept listening.
"That's it....Don't "fix" it or "help" it or "make it feel better" got it?"
He nodded violently and ran out to the pet store.
"I want a dog!"
"Go get one."
"No cause I won't take care of it."
"Then don't buy one."
"But I already did."
You facepalmed yourself as the little dog walked into the room.
"We both take care of it or I sell it."
Ticci Toby
"I got a dog."
(Still a better love story than Twilight!)
You petted the little white dog that sat on your lap while you and Toby watched TV.
The Rake
"We don't need a dog!"
"Yes we do! I can be with you and already know the house is safe!"
"Fine...." You sighed.
He left to come back five minutes later with a golden retriever and a goldfish.
"Why the fish?"
"It was so cute and it's little eyes TOLD me to buy it!" You wathed him kiss the fishbowl
before returning to your book.
~Even monsters can love~
Creepypasta boyfriend scenariosFanfiction
Noone seems to have done this... so I thought i would :D AND these ARE mine, they're just from my Quotev account, so no i am not stealing these and you cant take them either! ANYWAY! LETS BEGIN


text: Sanghvi Chemicals is a trustworthy Importer, Dealer and manufacturers of an exclusive range of Industrial Chemicals. The company has carved a niche in the Chemical Industry by offering a superior quality Chemicals that comprise Polyamide Resin, Silicone Oil, Acid Slurry, Industrial Chemicals, etc. The company has set up a benchmark for the competitors by providing a premium range of Chemicals that are highly appreciated in the market.


text:
Andy Murray produced a storming comeback to defeat Milos Raonic and reach a fifth Australian Open final – where he will face defending champion Novak Djokovic – after an five-set thriller in Melbourne. The world number two trailed by two sets to one but turned the match around to win 4-6 7-5 6-7 6-4 6-2.
Raonic had threatened to cause an upset and reach his maiden major final after taking the first and third sets with an aggressive brand of tennis that was too much for Murray to handle. But the former US Open and Wimbledon champ rallied and gave a virtuoso performance to confirm his place in a ninth grand slam final.
Murray will face 10-time major winner Djokovic in the final for the fourth time in six years, but is still seeking his first big win Down Under. Number one seed Djokovic cruised into the final with a fine display to oust Roger Federer in the first semi-final.
After watching world number one Djokovic lay down a significant marker against Federer on 28 January, Raonic and Murray had the daunting task of bidding to join the Serbian-final. Both players were locked at three wins apiece from their six previous meetings, but were pitted together for the first time in Melbourne.
It would be Raonic – in just his second major semi-final – who would make the faster start under the half-closed roof at the Rod Laver Arena. The Canadian began aggressively and broke Murray in a blur of an opening game, before seeing off three break-point chances in his first service game to consolidate the lead.
Going for his shots early and encroaching on the net without hesitation, Murray was unable to live with Raonic's intensity in the opening exchanges and it allowed the underdog to surge into the lead as he served out the set without alarm. Raonic's serve was also firing, but his British opponent would launch a counterattack in the second set.
Though two break points went by for Murray, every aspect of his game improved from the first set as he belatedly found a foothold. Raonic's standards did not slip, but serving to stay in the second set he finally relented as the two-time grand slam champion squared the contest.
There was now nothing to choose between the players in terms of the score line or the momentum of the match, with neither giving much away on their own serve. Murray did fight off a break-point chance in game 11 to force Raonic to serve to stay in the set.
The Scot went within two points of taking the third at 30-30 but Raonic took it to a tiebreak, where his ferocious serve helped him take control. The 25-year-old took a mini-break into the changeover before serving it out 7-4 to put one foot in the final.
In the fourth set, both players were locked in another closely contested set until game seven, when Raonic found the net with successive forehands and gifted Murray three break point chances. The 2015 Davis Cup winner yielded another error from his opponent to take a grip of proceedings and could even have closed out the set in the next game but for a sliced backhand return that drifted wide.
Murray took the clash to a deciding set and – having won 18 of his previous 25 matches to have gone the distance – the Briton was the firm favourite in the latter stages. He indeed took the immediate initiative as he broke an increasingly leg-weary Raonic, who had previously undergone treatment for a foot problem.
A second break soon followed to give Murray a 4-0 lead and though Raonic got on the board following a gruelling fifth game, which saw four break points saved, there was no coming back for the Montenegro-born right-hander. As the match ticked into a fifth hour Murray completed the stunning fightback to book another meeting with Djokovic.


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"At the beginning of 2011 we started a wide-ranging conversation with Google Creative Lab, discussing near-future experiences of Google and its products. They had already in mind another brief before approaching us, to create a physical product encapsulating Google voice/video chat services. This brief became known as 'Connection Box' or 'Connbox' for short…
There were interaction & product design challenges in making a simpler, self-contained video chat appliance, amplified by the problem of taking the things we take for granted on the desktop or touchscreen: things like the standard UI, windowing, inputs and outputs, that all had to be re-imagined as physical controls.
This is not a simple translation between a software and hardware behaviour, it's more than just turning software controls into physical switches or levers.
It involves choosing what to discard, what to keep and what to emphasise.
Should the product allow 'ringing' or 'knocking' to kickstart a conversation, or should it rely on other audio or visual cues? How do we encourage always-on, ambient, background presence with the possibility of spontaneous conversations and ad-hoc, playful exchanges? Existing 'video calling' UI is not set up to encourage this, so what is the new model of the interaction?
To do this we explored in abstract some of the product behaviours around communicating through video and audio. "
(Matt Jones, 26 February 2013, Berg Ltd)
"Universal design is a term that was first used in the United States by Ron Mace (1985) although forms of it were quite prevalent in Europe long before. For the purpose of this chapter Universal Design is defined as 'the design of all products and environments to be usable by people of all ages and abilities to the greatest extent possible (Story, 2001, p.10.3). Universal design in recent years has assumed growing importance as a new paradigm that aims at a holistic approach ranging in scale from product design (Balaram, 2001) to architecture (Mace, 1985), and urban design (Steinfield, 2001) on one hand and systems of media (Goldberg, 2001) and information technology (Brewer, 2001) on the other.
Given the popularity, Universal design still remains largely atheoretical i..e. the researchers of Universal design do not explicitly affiliate themselves to any form of theoretical paradigm. One of the reason is perhaps because Universal design is a melting point between cross paradigms. By paradigms I mean basic orientations to theory and research (Newman, 1997, p.62). In this sense Universal design can come under functionalist paradigm (because it caters to utility), pragmatic (because it is instrumental in nature), positivistic (because it strives for universal principles), normative (because it prescribes certain rules) and critical theorist paradigms (because it gives voice to the oppressed).
Conventionally the word universal is synonymous to general and refers to a set of principles that are stable, timeless and value free. In this sense universal design could be interpreted as deriving from a positivist paradigm. However, given its history and perspective, and with the universal design examples I provide, I will demonstrate several instances where the universals do change, are time bound and value laden. In this sense I argue that Universal design follows a critical theory paradigm in its conception and knowledge generation. By conception I mean how universal design came into being as a body of concepts and by knowledge generation I mean how the concepts pervade and are shared by the community of researchers."
(Newton D'Souza, 2004)
D'souza, N.: 2004, Chapter 1: "Is Universal Design a Critical Theory?" Keates, S., Clarkson, J., Langdon, P., Robinson, P. (eds.) Designing a more Inclusive World. Springer - Verlog, pp: 3-10, 5th University of Cambridge, UK.
"Joep Frens, Designer/Researcher and Assistant Professor in the 'Designing Quality in Interaction' group at Eindhoven University of Technology, the Netherlands. Joep's work explores how to design for (growing) systems and the power of 'making' as a physical way of thinking. He takes a 'hands-on' approach to design based in the research-through-design method and regularly gives workshops on cardboard modeling.
Joep is a designer/researcher from the Netherlands. He holds a master degree in Industrial Design Engineering from Delft University of Technology and a doctoral degree from Eindhoven University of Technology on a thesis called: 'Designing for Rich Interaction: Integrating Form, Interaction, and Function' (2006). Currently he is assistant professor in the 'Designing Quality in Interaction' group at the same university. He teaches several courses at bachelor and master level and supervises several PhD students.
In his teaching and research Joep tries to bring together two of his fascinations: the question of how to design for (growing) systems and the power of making as a physical way of thinking. He takes a hands-on approach and is well versed in the research-through-design method. He regularly gives workshops on cardboard modeling and runs a website around the technique.
Before his doctoral research he spent a year at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zürich (ETH), and after he has been invited to teach and lecture in the USA (CMU), Germany (HFGSG, FHD), South-Korea (KAIST), China (Tsinghua University, Jiangnan university), Belgium (UA) and at several universities in the Netherlands.
Joep's lecture occurred Wednesday, October 1st at 5:00pm in MMCH A14."
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text:
Las Vegas Gifts -
Las Vegas, NV, United States
We cater to weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, parties, events, holidays and more. Personalizing for your team or theme!
Dear Bride & Groom,
Getting married in Las Vegas, look no further. You have come to the right place. We Cater to Las Vegas Weddings! Offering a wide assortment of apparel and gifts for the Bride & Groom, wedding team, family and friends.
Personalizing for your team or theme. If you see something you really love, but it's not in your color, just ask us and we will get it for you asap!
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us.


text:
Tag Archives: Malaysia
In May I was in Melaka with two of my dear friends and it was a wonderful weekend trip. Melaka City is beautiful especially the historical city centre which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. The old red buildings are amazing, the streets are lively and on every corner you'll find a colorful themed trishaw. But there is so much more to see and explore… come and join me (:
Travel theme: Bountiful
{{ Have a look at all the other wonderful & stunning pictures @ Where's My Backpack }}


text:
'Your Talent Agency'
Canary Blue Band
Canary Blue is one of the hottest, high-energy bands in the Midwest. The band offers a unique variety of popular music all the songs people know and love so theres truly something for everyone.
MediaAudio/Video file 1 - MP3 Audio File
- Bad Romance
Audio/Video file 2 - MP3 Audio File
- I'm The Only One
Audio/Video file 3 - MP3 Audio File
- Boys of Summer
Audio/Video file 4 - MP3 Audio File
- Don't Stop Believin'
Audio/Video file 5 - MP3 Audio File
- Who Knew
Right Click and "Save Target As..." to save the file to your hard drive.


text:
Last month we put out the call…and you all delivered! We are inspired by all your original artwork, and now we're proud to unveil the winners for the 2017 Anker T-shirt Design Contest!
The 20 participants who will receive our 2017 Anker Limited Edition T-shirt are:
@Kopra_12@email@example.com@firstname.lastname@example.com @Macgyver15@joshuad11@johnnee@Lu_Han@IRNinjaz@ApplyDesigns@cava3395@AP_Gotzon@ndalby@UnstoppableJD@smitty030395@Jesse_Hernandez1@ojdarcy@Wesley_Westfall@pauldey
Here are some of the coolest designs our creative team thought deserved a special shout-out:
Designed by lemon.comrade
Designed by johnnee
Designed by UnstoppableJD
We will deliver all of your winning designs to Anker cultural & creative teams. If your design is chosen to be our 2018 official company T-shirt, we will contact you and get you an extra one to wear for yourself!
Finally, I'd like to say: amazing job, everyone! Please don't hesitate to continue sharing your Anker experience with us and the other community members here. We're always happy to listen to your insights and share the Anker love!
Wow what fantastic designs i like @johnnee design the best well done winners
Everyone did an amazing job. I would wear a few of them
Congrats to the winners
My favourite design is @lemon.comrade , reminds me a bit of my fav Guns N Rose's tee
Congratulations to all the winners !@AnkerOfficial please make more of these competitions
Thank you very much! I'm so excited! However, I don't recall what the 2017 shirt was. Do you have a picture @AnkerOfficial ?
Thanks Anker! Looking forward to receiving my t shirt
Thanks, man
congratulations !!!!
wow!!! congrats to the winners!! and I love so much the designs good job!
Congrats to all the winners! Liked the design selection!!
We haven't exposed this T-shirt in any occasion before! Only our employees have this!
Congratulations to the winners!! @AnkerOfficial remember that the official t-shirt should be available to purchase and eventually in the Power Draw. A t-shirt is a great way to get the brand out there.
When I saw the first image of this post the first time around, I knew I would want that one. It looks really great. Congrats to the winners.
There you go. Not a good view but this may be it??? Afterall the guy wearing it is an Anker employee as I have seen him at CES talking about & unveiling Anker products, in particular the Nebula Projector lineup.
Thank you @AnkerOfficial! So happy to be one of the 20 winners. congrats to all the other winners and everyone who participated.
Who said Monday's were a rubbish day
Thank you @AnkerOfficial!
Looks awesome! Congrats guys hopefully Anker will be selling shirts soon for the rest of us!
I mean it is Columbus Day.In my opinion every Monday could be a vacation day.


text:
If you're a night owl just like me, you may sometimes find it difficult to sleep earlier than your usual bedtime. There are instances wherein you want to hit the sack right away, especially when you're exhausted after a long day at work. Hours had passed and yet, you're still wide awake. What do you do in times like this?
Read A Book
I find that reading a book for about thirty minutes or so while lying in bed, makes my eyes tired. Eventually, I'll fall asleep. 🙂 I have finished The Art of War just recently. And now, I've started reading this self-help book.
Play a Game
I've been spending less and less time on Facebook for the last few months. The reason? Clash of Clans. 🙂


text:
Spent tonight in the demo PB 400 at Sugarbush. Just wanted to share a few thoughts.
Overall, I like the machine a lot. This one was setup with sticks (not paddles like the older PBs, but sticks). The operation of the cat is pretty simple, nothing out of the ordinary. I like the new rocker switches, and the computer display. The climate control setup is good... infinitely adjustable fan speed keeps you comfortable all night!
The lighting system is fantastic. I could see well ahead of the machine, but most notably was the lighting in the rear of the cat. The pass behind me was lit up like daytime, for a respectable distance. A huge improvement over the older Edge and 300 models. Very very nice.
The joystick is nice, but I don't like the little red button! I always end up hitting that instead of the other top button for the blade wings. It doesn't help that I've spent quite a lot of time in a BR-350, which has the button for tiller articulation in the same spot. Not to mention that the blade function buttons are exactly opposite of those on the BR-350. However, I do like the placement of the switches for tiller up/down and up/down pressure. You don't have to take you hand off the joystick to make those adjustments anymore. This is good!
I'm not sure that I like the articulation functions on the right stick. It's too easy to bump the stick forward when you're trying to articulate or center the tiller. Can be frustrating at times. I think this needs to be redesigned. But the location of the track speed and tiller speed pots behind the sticks is pretty handy. And the tiller on button is also convenient there.
The Cummins powerplant is powerful and quiet, and I like new setup for setting RPMs. Rather than a hand throttle, you rev it up with the throttle pedal, and then hold a button to set the RPMs. Another nice feature is the auto ramp-down when you put the brake on.
The tiller seems essentially unchanged, at least as far as operation. Left a nice pattern most of the time, even in the less-than-ideal conditions in some spots (read:bulletproof). The depth of cut setup must have been changed quite a lot, because where we've usually been tilling at a depth of "2" on the depth meter, we had this cat set at "5" to cut the equivalent actual depth. Not sure about the reasoning for the discrepancy.
Again, overall I was very pleased with the cat. I would be more than happy operating it every night.
A bad quality picture (I'll get some good shots tomorrow or Monday night):


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Super Tuesday — Practice Run
on January 26, 2008 at 11:55 pm
Posted In: Internet
The Trib has a useful voter guide. Put in your address (used only to generate the ballot) and see your all local candidates office by office. You can use the guide to create a sample ballot to take to the polls. With some help from Google and the voting resources I blogged before (the candidate pages at VoterInfoNet and Vote For Judges), I was able to come up with a set of candidates I think I can live with (more or less). The local candidates don't generate the same kind of buzz as the presidential hopefuls, but there's enough information out there to figure out what you need to know. Like there are some truly unqualified people running for judge.


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is said in the Chilam Balam's Prophecy that a man from a foreign
land will emerge bringing the news which will change the world forever.
More, he will talk behind a death mask. As it seems logical, the
man will appear in Palenque bringing the Manifest of Life so countries
agree to end wars and concentrate in the welfare of humanity.
The only clue we give here is that he is the only one to fit the
mask. The mask has magical powers such as the control of weather
and is able to create huge earthquakes. To our knowledge, the Pakal's
mask is very well protected in a museum under strong custody. Does
he have a replica of the Pakal's mask? Or is he born with his face
shaped as the Pakal's mask? Until then, it remains a mystery but
we have created the 3-D facial simulation for your curiosity. The
simulation couldn't be more accurate of Pakal's profile. Thank you
for your visit.
"Beyond the senses is my
mind, and beyond my mind is reason, its essence.
Beyond my reason is my Spirit in man, and beyond this is the Spirit
of the universe,
the evolver of all.
When the five senses and my mind
are still, and reason itself rests in silence, then
my supreme Path will begin.
In me are woven the sky and the
earth and all the regions of the air, and in me
rest the mind and all the powers of life. Know me as the ONE and
leave aside all
other words. I am the bridge of immortality.
And when I am seen in my immanence
and transcendence, then the ties that have
bound the heart will be unloosened, the doubts of the mind will
vanish, and the law of
God will work no more.
From delusion lead me to Truth.
From darkness lead me to Light.
From death lead me to immortality."
(Lord Pakal in Transfiguration of the Mask)
You can purchase the T-shirt with Pakal's mask in
our Mayan store.
the purpose of copyright and reserved rights, the code of this idea
page is ram082252. Permission is needed if material content is made
commercial and for-profit. The Pakalian Group (2004).


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More refinements
View open times for a different day of the week by selecting another day above.
Realestate.com.au is Australia's #1 home for rental property, listing real estate for rent in Yulecart, and other rental property listings by real estate agents in Yulecart. If you're looking to rent a property in Yulecart, we have house prices in Yulecart. Realestate.com.au can help you find rentals open for inspection in Yulecart, and houses to share in Yulecart. If you're searching for Yulecart property for sale or sold property in Yulecart, we can help you with your real estate search.


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TravelsInTaste® provides a glimpse into the entire restaurant experience. Click on an image below in the City row for the type of dining you seek.
Are you interesting in seeing some of your favorite chefs in action? Curious to see them doing their thing from within their very own restaurant kitchens? We don't blame you; some chefs' secrets must be seen to be believed. Watch, salivate and learn.
A prohibition speakeasy from 1919 to 1933 the "21 Club" is a New York institution
Founded by Jack Kriendler and Charlie Berns, 21 is best known for its secret wine cellar, and inventive way of hiding/destroying liquor during Prohibition-era police raids
Former New York Mayor Jimmy Walker had his own room in the wine cellar during the 1920s so that he could imbibe while federal agents searched for contraband
Display of jockeys outside the wrought iron gates includes one donated in honor of America's most famous racehorse, Secretariat
Contains many private dining rooms of various sizes including the popular speakeasy
Bar room ceiling covered with celebrity patron donated toys
Historical photographs and past menus decorate the walls
Excellent cuisine and frequented by "A" list patrons – sports figure, celebrities, titans of business
Service: Professional and friendly
Acoustics: Conversion of three brownstones provides many intimate quiet spaces
Lighting: Appropriate varied club type atmospheric illumination
Table Proximity: Generous spacing with comfortable leather booth and chair seating
21 West 52nd Street
New York, NY 10019
Reservations: (212) 582-7200
Hours: Lunch 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. (Mon – Fri); Dinner 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Mon – Fri), 5:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. (Sat)
Dress Code: Jackets required for men


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Team Partner
GreeningsVisit Website
Greenings, a world leader in sourcing Senior Level Executive Talent for Card Payment and Fintech clients, is a first-time Team Partner in the Clipper 2017-18 Race.
Founded in 1999 by Andrew Greening, a pioneer in international executive resourcing, Greenings International, has enjoyed 29 years of trusted, cross-border partnerships with some of the world's leading corporates, private equity, regulators, and governments.
Greenings has partnered with the Clipper Race since 2007, running The Cards and Payments Industry Regatta on The Solent. This event has seen leaders from the world of Payments, including Ai Corp, American Express, CyberSource, Elavon, EVO, FIS, Global Blue, Global Payments, Miura, Oak Capital, PrePay Solutions, Retail Decisions, UATP, Verifone, and WorldPay, all compete in the annual industry series.
In support of the team's race participation, Greenings plans to organise Cards and Payments specific events in key race destinations including Cape Town, Sydney, Seattle and New York, whilst also bringing local clients to spectate at Race Start and Finish events in Liverpool and Derry-Londonderry.
The aim of the partnership, which will be centred around the company's 'Value Through People' ethos, will be to connect executives and businesses around the Clipper Race's global route, providing thought leadership on Executive Talent and Development in its rapidly changing and innovative sector.
The firm also plans to build a digital engagement between its crew, Greenings employees, and clients and candidates throughout the almost year long duration of the Clipper Race.
Greenings has offices in Atlanta, London, Luxembourg, Manchester and Montreal.
If your company is interested in becoming a partner or a sponsor of the Clipper Race please email the Partnerships Team to find out more:email@example.com
Contact us


text: Over the last few weeks American television has been making the headlines: the Superbowl (more importantly, Beyonce) and Oprah Winfrey's emotional interview with Lance Armstrong being just two. Piers Morgan has been debating gun issues in America for a while now and this video, published last Tuesday, is just one example. Now this is an issue that is deeply rooted in American culture and history. During the re-inauguration week, Obama pledged to a little girl who wrote him a letter, that he is going to 'try, very hard' to do what he can to enforce tighter restrictions. Being a Briton, and not a well-liked one to say the least, Piers faces an uphill battle to try and present a balanced argument. Which I believe he does well here: he has people from either side of the argument, in positions of authority, and allows them each a few minutes to talk. Being on a schedule and dealing with hot headed characters, Piers does resort to interrupting and trying to move the point along. At the end it does degrade into everyone trying to get points in over the others, and there is a very sudden wrapping up. This interview is obviously never going to put a definite stop to the issue, but there is a feeling this is unfinished and could have gone on longer. However, it is likely that would have turned this into a shouting match. Piers does keep his cool on the whole, giving the interviewees their own time. The comments on the YouTube video, do not agree with me. Lots of Americans believe as a foreigner, he has no say, no understanding or even any rights. There are lots of calls for him to be deported, countered by British people writing that no-one in the UK wants him either. A lot of these comments I strongly believe are influenced by people's pre-conceived notions of him, or the issue – blindly sticking to their guns (views!) without analysing both sides that are being presented.


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A NovelBook - 2016
From the critics
Community Activity
CommentAdd a Comment
I loved it. I thought it was creepy, but not a stereotypical story about a sociopath and his helpless and/or clueless victims. The characters in the story were engaging (though not particularly likable) and multidimensional. I thought it was an interesting viewpoint as told through the stalker's eyes. There was little violence or sex, just suspense. (in my opinion.) It left me feeling a little disturbed and a little bit dirty.
This seemed promising, but I could not get past the first several pages. The writing, unfortunately, is just not very good. Sentences are awkwardly constructed, dialogue is dry and unconvincing, attempts at humor are contrived, and descriptions are extraneous and unimaginative.
Ugh. Like we need another book about a white boy (at Harvard, no less) with an overinflated sense of his own importance, or another book about a loner obsessed with a girl way above his league, or another book about the ways in which men repeatedly violate the boundaries and space women have set up. Even worse: when all three are in the same book. No thanks.
Conclusion - Still waters run deep. The book is full of too fancy phrases and sayings unclear about what are they; descriptions of sexual experiences of freshmen; unnecessary, in my opinion, descriptions of certain physiological deficiencies, for example - "dried snot in the nostril, that flaps when breathing, or - blackhead that was undergoing careful scrutiny after it was extruded." Yuck.
What a great book! Loner by Teddy Wayne tells the tale of anomic Jewish boy, David Federman. David, 18, socially awkward, heads to Harvard with the hopes of carving out a fresh identity amongst the elites, leaving behind the lonely march of his high school years. One of the first nights on campus, David encounters -- from a distance -- beautiful Veronica Morgan Wells ("VMW"), the daughter of a New York socialite. David pays less and less attention to his budding group of friends as his obsession with VMW grows and he makes a clumsy reach for her by dating her bookish and attainable well-meaning roommate, Sara.
I picked this for a few reasons:
1. It's one of the shortest novels currently on my reading list, 192 pages.
2. I'm reading 3-4 other books, so I wanted something I thought was light and quick. It was a quick read because it was too good to put down, but not what I'd call light.
3. The short, punchy title was appealing.
4. I gravitate towards stories set on college campuses.
I was at first really put off by the first person perspective. But once I got used to the style, I took on David's gaze and got lost in the story.
Loner definitely has some of the same elements as a thriller. The pacing will be familiar to fans of the genre. But, Loner is not a thriller (nor a teen novel, for that matter). It's adult fiction, the sobering character study of a spot-on stand-in for the emotionally stunted "Y" Generation. Teddy Wayne takes a risk by telling this story almost exclusively from the unreliable narrator's perspective, but a key glances from the other side help paint David not as the fearsome stalker caricature of popular drugstore thrillers, but an excruciatingly lonely boy whose misguided attempts to get close to one person go terribly awry.
Love-loved this book.
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Today is rainy, cold day (at least here in The Hague).
Yet, on Facebook somebody has posted very inspiring, appealing to my imagination as well as to my desire and energizing photo of the little table with the laptop on the beach with a bit of oriental touch around it. Such a view and such combination brings calming effect on me. Looking at the reactions of other Facebook users I can assume that they are having similar feelings connected with it as well.
Would it be great to have a freedom to choose your own ''office'' space, your own work place, where you could be creative as much as possible, where you could be free to do and to say whatever please you (as long as you do not harm others of course). Where you will feel well, safe and relaxed, which at the end will bring a huge benefit for the employer and / or yourself if you are your own boss.
It would be haven on earth to work in the desired, dreamed place where one could feel more at home than at work. I remember I was reading a while ago an article about the office which look like the park of attraction (cannot bring the name of the company either of the article now), however such an amazing thing to do for yourself as well as for your employees – to bring back your inner child, your innocence in reactions, thinking, creativity and more important an openness towards asking naive questions – which actually are opening our eyes and minds. Another dream place to work, I wish I could experience once is the office / home of Richard Branson, the privet, beautiful, wild island with his hammock office – brilliant, fantastic – I truly envy him for it.
Nowadays lots of people prefer working from home. It is a great thing to do so as you can walk in your pj the whole day, lay on the couch and do whatever while working, however is it really great? Can you really concentrate with your kids around jumping and your spouse screaming and all unfinished little home task to do?
I was thinking that the fact that we do need to go to the office, where we will meet other people (not necessary in the office but also on the way there) is something what keep us feet. You may not agreed with me, however I could see on my own example as well as others that while you are at home you becoming more lazy and isolated, while you do need to go out you prepare yourself, put a makeup or a new tie, you make an effort, and you do enjoy it more (ok, not always as sometimes the upcoming meeting may be very stressful).
I do not like the idea being 8 hours within the office and not be able to enjoy the beautiful weather either. However, I am talking about the possibility to go to the work place outside your own home, even if you do work for yourself. Of course sometimes is much easier when the weather is terrible and you are getting a cold to stay home and work on your laptop from your own bed – great as well.
Would it be great when your boss will give you a laptop and let you go to the park or to the beach (if you are luckily enough to work / live close by) to do your job.
Myself, I will be more motivated to do my job, and you…?


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Useful Links
Hospitality and Culinary Arts
BIIAB National Certificate for Personal Licence Holders (February 20)register interest Options
Course Information
Hospitality and Culinary Arts
|Course Title
|BIIAB National Certificate for Personal Licence Holders (February 20)
|Start Date
|1st January 1970
|1 Weeks
|Fee details on enquiry. All learners are fee-assessed at enrolment
Course Content
Hospitality and Culinary Arts
|Short Description
About the Course
This course is for anyone who authorises the sale of alcohol to the public who is required to have a suitable qualification as stated in the legal requirement in England and Wales.
It is also suitable for anyone who would like to work in licensed premises where alcohol is sold.
What you will study
You will study:
On completion of this course, candidates will hold a licensing qualification with which they can apply for the Personal Licence.
|Access Method
The majority of candidates will use the qualification to apply for their Personal License from their local authority.
In addition, those working in hospitality can develop further their qualifications with another specialist course at Westminster Kingsway College.
Entry Requirements
Hospitality and Culinary Arts
|Entry Requirement
No formal qualifications are required but candidates will need a basic knowledge of English.
Applicants need to be 18 years of age or over.
How to Apply
Hospitality and Culinary Arts
For information about how to apply for all courses click here to see our Application Guide.
If there is an Apply Now button shown above, you can click on this to apply direct for this course. Otherwise visit a College Centre to enrol direct onto your chosen course.


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After using her glorious mouth and tongue to thoroughly wet Sasuke's large pecker, Karin spreads her legs for a pussy penetration. Her leg is lifted high into the air so that Sasuke's meat can piston in and out of her juicy hole. Karin can only moan and take it as her cunt is punished by Sasuke's amazing rod. Before Sasuke can come inside the pulsating channel, he pulls his prick out so he can cream all over Karin's pretty face, coating her lips, cheeks and eyes with his fat load and watching with joy as she licks it.
Tag Archive for Karin
Category: Naruto Hentai, Naruto Videos / Tags: Karin, naruto porn video, Sasuke Uchiha
Karin gets rammed by Sasuke
Karin is a little shy about getting naked with Sasuke Uchiha, but her apprehension soon dissolves. Taking Karin to a back room, Sasuke removes his pants to reveal a gigantic cock that is leaking from the tip. Karin is overtaken by desire, and she immediately jumps on the prick with her mouth. She sucks hard and uses her hand to bring Sasuke even more pleasure. When the mighty bone is hard and wet, Karin lets Sasuke thrust it into her pussy. After a hardcore pounding, Karin sucks on the boner again to get a mouthful of jizz.
Category: Naruto Hentai / Tags: Karin, naruto porn video, Sasuke Uchiha


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Peer-to-peer encouragement and support under the guidance of an experienced facilitator. The meetings provide a forum for discussing all aspects of your job search with others.
You'll also have opportunities to practice and improve your job search techniques for: Resumes, "30 second commercials", C.A.R. stories.
Meetings are held on Wednesdays: 10am – 11:30 am
at the Metuchen Public Library, 480 Middlesex Avenue, Metuchen, NJ 08840
See you there!!!!!


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Former Disney star Amanda Bynes, who made her name in the movie Hairspray, was reportedly being held in detention in a psychiatric ward after she allegedly started a "campfire" in a stranger's driveway.
According to celebrity site TMZ.com, the troubled former child star was forced to undergo a mental evaluation after emergency services were called to a house in Thousand Oaks, in Los Angeles, after a resident reported a fire. Bynes owns a house in nearby Calabasas.
The 27-year-old actress was allegedly found standing on the property next to the campfire.
"Deputies investigated the incident. She was detained and taken for a mental health evaluation," Captain Don Aguilar of the Ventura County Sheriff's Office told US website Hollyscoop.
She could be held for up to 72 hours as psychiatrists evaluated whether she was a danger to herself or others.
She was being kept under observation under the same ruling that kept Britney Spears and Mischa Barton in a mental health ward.
Bynes' admission to hospital came hours after she was turned away from a Thousand Oaks retirement home by police because she appeared to be drunk.


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Yesterday our family had the opportunity, along with the Sunshine Project and Nanjing LDS Branch, to once again serve the children at Gaochun Special School. This time, Eric and Bella were able to come with us, so that made the trip even more special!
Here are the highlights!
The first thing we did with the kids was to decorate a tree for each classroom! The kids loved this!
This is one of the deaf classes signing "I love you!"
The older group of deaf children found out that Bella could communicate in written Chinese and they went nuts!
The "talked" for a long time in a notebook, asking her all sorts of questions!
They also spent some time teaching her how to sign some Chinese words, like "Nihao!"
Mike, a student from the class that I co-taught last year is translating for me.
We are getting ready to sing the kids favorite song that Miss Becky taught them!
The Hokey Pokey. (I'll spare you the photos of us dancing! 😉
And then we sang "Jingle Bells" for the kids!
We were TOTALLY into it!
This photo (above) was taken by the teacher who had my camera while we were singing.
Apparently she really liked using my camera, as there were about 50 photos of the kids that I didn't take!
We are still up on the stage, but now we are explaining the craft that we are helping the kids make.
Our Santa beards were a hit!
I loved how the children were helping each other!
The girls (above) remembered me from last summer and both RAN into the room and gave me HUGE hugs!
I love these kids!
"Ho, Ho, Ho!"
"Ho, Ho, Ho, Peace on earth, good will to men!"
My adorable husband was so helpful!
He really got in and helped the kids!
Also, you can see Lana Parke behind him!
She had a huge smile on her face the entire day!
"Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho, Ho…"
"I saw Santa kissing Alisha!"
After our Santa beard project we broke for lunch!
These kids were hungry after such a fun morning!
Now it's time for Santa presents!
The Sunshine project brought ear muffs for all the kids
to compliment the hats made by our Nanjing Branch,
Operation Orphan Care and several of my dear friends!
Super model!
Kim Malan helping with the hats.
This boy is one of my buddies from last summer!
He also felt that hugs were in order when we were reunited!
His smile is award winning!
The student volunteer organization of Nanjing University brought this fun glitter craft!
They stayed in the classrooms and helped the kids with this project while Santa made the rounds!
A view of the school courtyard with the cafeteria in the distance.
On a side note…
We were very impressed with their current art project.
These little puppets were about 8 inches tall and so detailed!
My kids want to learn how to make these! We'll have to find someone to teach us!
In the end it was one of the most memorable days we've had a in while!
We hope to get back to Gaochun again soon!
Merry Christmas Gaochun children!
We LOVE YOU!


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Twitter Joins Facebook, Google, Launches 'Brand Pages' for Marketers
Twitter is looking to strengthen its relationship with advertisers by launching brand pages that will be unveiled today as part of a more comprehensive redesign.
Twitter's existing brand pages have been under the radar, especially compared with the buildup around Google+ brand pages, which were launched last month. But Chief Revenue Officer Adam Bain said that he's spent the better part of the past year meeting with chief marketing officers, and brand pages were a recurring and frequent request.
Brand pages have two key elements, both of them free. They can be customized with large header images that advertisers can use to display their logo and tagline more prominently than under the standard format, where branded elements of the page design are often partially covered by the time line of tweets. Brands can also choose to keep a particular tweet at the top of their time line, and that top tweet also auto-expands to reveal an embedded photo or video from Flickr, YouTube or other sources, without requiring the user to take action.
Additionally, they separate out a brand's @ replies and mentions, which Mr. Bain noted is important for a customer-service oriented company like JetBlue, one of the launch partners, which frequently responds to users but wanted a way to keep its messaging from getting diluted.
"A tweet's only 140 characters," said Mr. Bain. "[Brand page are] like an invitation to learn more. When consumers want to learn more, spend more time or get deeper in terms of engagement, we think they'll end up on the brand page."
Twitter is launching brand pages with 21 marketers: American Express, Best Buy, Bing, Chevrolet, Coca-Cola, Dell , Disney, General Electric, Hewlett-Packard, Intel, JetBlue, Kia, McDonald's, Nike , PepsiCo, Staples, Verizon Communications Wireless, NYSE Euronext, Heineken, Subway and Paramount Pictures, specifically for the release of "Mission: Impossible -- Ghost Protocol." It has also partnered with some charities and individuals that it hasn't disclosed.
Mr. Bain said that all the marketers involved in the launch are strategic partners and advertisers that have been involved in ongoing dialogues with Twitter.
There's a clear application for entertainment brands like Paramount and Disney, which is promoting the upcoming movie "Brave" in its top tweet. But early-use cases are varied. Pepsi is deploying the brand page functionality for individual products such as Pepsi and Diet Pepsi . General Electric created video content for today's launch geared toward helping consumers understand what the company does in human terms. Mr. Bain pointed toward the company as a forward-thinking marketer that will be increasingly using promoted tweets and trends to drive eyes to its brand page in 2012.
"The question for each one of these marketers is what is the interesting, compelling, provocative content that they can be putting out to a larger audience to keep that engagement high," said Mr. Bain, adding that marketers in the launch group were already actively distributing content on Twitter but were looking for a way to make it stand out better.
For Twitter, launching brand pages could be a way of challenging Facebook's hegemony as the secondary branded destination for a company after its own site, as well as another means of inducing big brand advertisers to loosen the purse strings by making organic and paid content more interconnected. If brand pages become enticing destinations with rich content experiences, Twitter's advertising products become more appealing as a means of directing people there.
Twitter's global ad revenue is projected to reach $139.5 million in 2011 and approach $400 million in 2013, according to eMarketer. It launched its advertising program in April 2010 with six advertisers signed up to use promoted tweets.
Brand pages will also ultimately be deployed for Twitter's mobile clients, but not for today's launch.


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Did you have chicken pox as a kid? I did, at 18 months old. A very mild case. When my sisters got it when I was in high school, I moved in to a friend's house to avoid being exposed to it again. I'd been informed, you see, that since I had it so young, and such a mild case of it, I was susceptible to a second bout of it.
I discovered that I have been exposed to it inadvertently very recently, a pretty virulent strain of it. The reason I'm so worried about it? I can't leave stuff like that alone. My cuticles are always torn up because I rip at them when I'm stressed, which helllooo, is all the damn time.
GAH! I do not have time for this right now! Keep your fingers crossed for me that I don't end up coming down with it.
You know that as soon as I heard about being exposed to it, every single inch of my skin started to itch, don't you? AAARRRRGGGHHH!
Bethenny Frankel is still at the beach
2 years ago