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|Photo courtesy of Brooke Allison Photography
Hi LM readers! I'm sharing my perspective on having an unplugged ceremony and hope it helps guide you as you plan your big day. No matter how much you love photos and may think that the "more is better" approach when it comes to people snapping away, hear me out and weigh the option on having an unplugged ceremony. You might just find it's exactly what you've been dreaming of!
So you've spent months (or maybe years) planning your wedding day. After careful consideration, you've chosen your dress and by the time you hit the ceremony processional, you are perfectly made up and ready for that moment when you look down the other end up of the aisle and gaze at the love of your life. At that very same moment, I'm standing in the aisle ready to capture it all with my camera; after all, you've been dreaming about that moment and assume I'm going to capture it for you to look back on.
And then your Aunt Sue, wearing a red-sequined dress, steps directly into the aisle, point and shoot camera in hand and completely blocks my camera's view of your grand entrance as she snaps away. She might even continue backing up down the aisle to ensure she captures every.last.moment. This is unfortunately the scene I see at almost every wedding I photograph. People nowadays have an obsession with taking photos on their iPhone's, iPad's and pocket cameras and seem to forget the fact that when they lunge into the aisle to grab their shot, they are compromising the professional photos for someone they care about.
I think what makes it hard for me is knowing what could have been if people didn't interfere with my photo taking. You can never go back and recreate and so it's sad to see a beautiful moment completely blocked by someone standing up to take a photo. For me, those beautiful, spontaneous moments are the reason I love what I do. And so I'm encouraging my couples to consider an unplugged ceremony where guest sit back and take in the sanctity of the marriage vows and the ceremony as it unfolds. To ensure this happens, you can consider putting a simple note in your program, kindly asking guests to unplug. It may read something like, "We are so honored you've taken the time to witness the incredible sanctity of our marriage vows and the beautiful moments that are about to unfold. We've given ourselves the gift of hiring a professional photographer to capture the day so we are all left to just submerse ourselves in this moment. We'd appreciate if you'd turn off your phones and put down your cameras and be a part of our ceremony with us." Another option (or maybe in addition to the note in the program) is to have your officiant welcome guests and share a similar message before the official start of the processional. I've seen it done both ways and it makes a big difference.
I think what's most important to remember is that guests don't stand up and intentionally try and ruin your professional photos! They just get excited and caught up in the day. By having the note in the program or the officiant announcement, they are given that little reminder they need to remember that they should probably put down their iPhones and experience what is happening in front of them. Here's to being in love, beautiful moments and unplugging!
Thank you Brooke for sharing your wonderful expertise! Have any of you had an "unplugged wedding" or are planning on having one? What are your thoughts on this topic? Share below!


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Review: Anthony Suau
Andrew Jack
Arguably the most
haunting and depressing images are those of Russia, however. Almost all
are in black and white, which helps to accentuate the gloom and tensions
of the country today. A rare, ironic, exception, portrays in full colour
the two miserable and lonely shirts that hang in an otherwise empty
department store in central Moscow in 1992.
There is the
bleak industrial brutality so often repeated across the country, and
well highlighted in a simple shot of endless identical apartment
balconies; or an image of three children playing across the depressing
backdrop of pipelines and machinery in the northern town of Norilsk.
Even the scenes that ought to be more up-lifting—of a fashion show, of well-dressed nouveaux riches in a nightclub, or of dinner in a well-known "approved" artist's luxurious apartment— somehow only resonate a superficiality and excess which is part of the extremes of Russia today.
Unintrusively, the organisers have added a series of
texts which combine three different perspectives on the period
effectively: that of Suau himself; the academic Jacques Rupnik; and the
writer Tatiana Tolstaya, who powerfully describes the contrast between the
desperation of the early 1990s among some of her acquaintances, and the
equally uneasy—and short-lived —
that followed.
After Moscow, Anthony Suau: Beyond The Fall will travel to the following venues:
Bilbao, Spain: Fundacion BBK
Novorossiisk, Russia: State Historical Museum
Stavropol, Russia: State Local-History Museum
St. Petersburg, Russia: Russian Museum-Marble
Andrew Jack is a British journalist based in Moscow and the author of The French Exception (Profile Books, London). He is also a member of the editorial board of Culturekiosque.com.
If you value our reviews, please tell a friend or join our mailing list!
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subset: commoncrawl


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As I scanned my Facebook feed last night while I waited for practices to wrap up I noticed that a colleague had shared and commented on a recent USA today article regarding concussions. Although the article was interesting and something I may talk about at a later date, what caught my attention was a related article with a striking headline at the bottom of the page. The article was from May of 2016 and the title declared Expert: Concussions will change, not kill football. Of course I then spent a few minutes reading an article I probably read back when it was published and I couldn't help but think that this expert opinion is already out of date. The game of football is forever changed by the prevalence of, and new awareness about the dangers of improperly treating a concussion and the long-term effects it may have. The game of football has changed, and this change will continue to be more prevalent as more and more high schools across the country transition to 8-Man football programs or eliminate their programs completely.
How the NFL's Concussion Crisis Is Impacting High School Football
As a high school athletic trainer (AT) I'm constantly educating the public on what I do. This is the never-ending struggle of an AT, to be seen and appreciated for what we are, allied health care providers with a vast and constantly cultivated knowledge of many subjects. One subject very close to my heart is adolescent concussions. I've read every article I can find, I've researched all sorts of treatments, and am constantly working with colleagues of all kinds on how best to protect, treat, and assist young athletes who have suffered concussions. In the 15 or so years that I've been volunteering, or working in athletic training rooms, I've seen changes but the information is constantly evolving and developing on how best to prevent, treat, and rehabilitate a concussed athlete. Although football is not the only sport that I see concussions in, it is the one that gets the most attention. My first response to the question of why I think that is, is always the same. Football concussions get the most attention because of the concussion crisis the NFL saw starting in 2013 with the release of League of Denial: The NFL's Concussion Crisis. That moment in time was a catalyst for the changes I am seeing everyday on my high school's campus. I also am hearing rumors about it happening at other schools all across the state of California and I would bet, across the entire United States as well.
Why Eight-Man Football?
8-Man football is going to be the new normal at many high schools. I predict this transition will become even more common over the next five to 10 years especially at schools that probably would never trouble fielding a football team. Just wait for it. Never heard of 8-Man football? Well, you're not alone. I knew about it, but hadn't really heard too much until about three years ago when our JV team played against an 8-Man team on an early Saturday morning. Basically the main differences are a shorter, less wide field and only eight players line up on each side of the ball, two less lineman and one less skill player. At that time, our coaches were a bit lost with how things were supposed to happen and the officials were reading out of their rule books up until the minute the game started. It just wasn't common place in Orange County, Calif. Now, you're going to see it everywhere. I'll bet on it and I'm not a gambler, unless you count scratch-off lottery tickets because I love to win with scratchers.
Everyone wants to know why my school's football program transitioned this past year to 8-Man football. It's always first "Why did you do it?" and then, "How do we do it?" Eventually the conversation turns into somewhat of a debate on whether it's even really football. After two weeks of games and over a month of practices I can assure you, 8-Man football is FOOTBALL in every sense of the word. I've been watching this game my whole life, thanks to a house divided (Dad and brother are die-hard Raider fans while my Mom is a loyal fan of the 49ers…that's the real Battle of the Bay!), and what I see at my school throughout the week of practice and under the lights on Friday night is the game of football. So, let me get back to why we transitioned. I could go into it and explain that we are an extremely academic school with high standards and expectations, we've had four coaches in the past four years, or that we're a small school with small enrollment (approx. 520) but the bottom line that I see is that parents aren't encouraging their kids to risk their investments. Parents of students at my school, and across the state, who are likely successful individuals in their own right, do not invest this much in their child's high school education to willingly put that investment at risk. Let's not lose sight of the fact that concussions are brain injuries and you only get one brain. It's not common for my student athletes to have little to no experience playing tackle football before high school. The common reason I hear is that their parents felt it was too dangerous and too much of a risk. Now I don't want to put words in anyone's mouth, and I'm not saying that everyone feels this way, but times have changed. When I was a kid, every strong young boy signed up for the youth Pop Warner football program, my older brother included, and I just don't see that in Orange County where there are hundreds of thousands of young boys and girls who are eligible for this sport.
In early August the LA Times published an online article that stated High school football participation drops by 3,520 in the state of California. The number of participants in the article is for the 2015-16 academic year. I hope they follow up to show this year's numbers because I predict they are much lower. Working through my seventh year at a small high school, I have seen the numbers on our roster shrink to less than half of what we had in the fall of 2010 when I first started. Every week I hear rumors (I work at a high school so rumors are common) that another school is looking at possibly transitioning to 8-Man football. Yesterday, I heard that a large school -- with an enrollment well of more than 1,500 students -- in the surrounding area is considering the transition next year. It may be shocking to others, but not to me.
For the high school where I work, 8-Man football is a perfect fit. We can adequately field a team after struggling for years to fill our roster and I honestly feel that our kids are as safe as they can be in a violent, full-contact sport because we are finally matching up against similar schools with similar-sized student athletes. After a 71-44 win last Friday night, I think the kids finally believe it too.
If your school or program is considering the transition to 8-Man football, I can tell you you're not alone. Embrace this change because it is going to be more common over the next five to 10 years as the generations move through this change in the youth levels of this sport that so many Americans love to cheer for on Sundays (and Monday night, and now Thursday night too)!


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Jules Gluten Free All Purpose Flour
Posted on November 15, 2012
Jules Gluten Free All Purpose Flour Manufactured for: Jules LLC http://www.julesglutenfree.com/ email@example.com (877) 236-3940 Ingredients: Expandex Modified Tapioca Starch, potato starch, corn starch, corn flour, white rice flour, xanthum gum This month we tested Jules Gluten Free All Purpose Flour. The company states it can be used as a cup for cup replacement in most recipes Continue Reading »
Caesar's Stuffed Shells with Cheese in Marinara Sauce
Posted on November 15, 2012
Caesar's Stuffed Shells with Cheese in Marinara Sauce Caesar's Pasta Specialties Blackwood, New Jersey, 888.43.Caesar www.caesarspasta.com Ingredients: Water, concentrated crushed tomatoes, onions, flour (rice flour, corn flour, tapioca flour, xanthan gum), whole milk ricotta cheese (pasteurized cheese whey, whole milk, vinegar, salt), canola oil, organic evaporated cane juice, garlic, part skim mozzarella cheese (pasteurized milk, Continue Reading »
Baked Penne with Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Sausage
Posted on November 15, 2012
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon unsalted butter 2 Tablespoons olive oil 1 large onion, diced 2 garlic cloves, minced 3/4 lb. gf Italian sausage, bulk or removed from its casing 1/4 cup dry red wine 1 35 oz. can of whole plum tomatoes, juices reserved 2 Tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped 1 cup ricotta cheese 1 cup freshly Continue Reading »
Shepherd's Pie
Posted on November 15, 2012
Ingredients: 2 large russet potatoes, peeled 1/2 cup milk 1/4 cup unsalted butter 1-1/2 teaspoons salt 1 Tablespoon garlic, minced 1 pound ground beef 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped 1-1/2 Tablespoons worcestershire sauce 4 teaspoons gf flour 1/2 cup onion, chopped 1/2 cup carrot, chopped 1/4 cup dry white wine 1/2 gf beef stock 1 cup Continue Reading »
Turkey Tacos
Posted on November 15, 2012
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked turkey, shredded vegetable oil 1/4 cup onion 1 minced garlic clove 1/4 cup fresh, chopped cilantro 1/2- 1 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin salt For tacos: 12 corn tortillas 1 cup white cheddar cheese, grated 1/2 cup chopped onion 1 cup chopped tomatoes gf salsa or pico de gallo Continue Reading »
Turkey & Asparagus Casserole
Posted on November 15, 2012
Ingredients: 12 oz. gf pasta 1 bunch asparagus, cut into 2 inch pieces 1 Tablespoon olive oil 2 shallots, minced 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter 2 Tablespoons gf flour 1 cup milk 1 cup Parmesan cheese Salt and freshly ground black pepper 3 cups cooked Continue Reading »
123 Gluten Free Biscuits
Posted on October 31, 2012
Product Tested: 123 Gluten Free Biscuits Manufactured by: 123 Gluten Free, Inc. Pittsburgh, PA 15213 www.123glutenfree.com 123 Gluten Free Biscuits Ingredients: Rice flour, Tapioca flour, Potato starch, Cornstarch, Sugar, Aluminum-free Baking Powder (Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Baking Soda, Tapioca Starch, Monocalcium Phosphate), Xanthan Gum, Salt. In thinking of the holidays we decided to test 123 Gluten Continue Reading »
Pamela's Cornbread & Muffin Mix
Posted on October 31, 2012
Product Tested: Pamela's Cornbread & Muffin Mix Manufactured for: Pamela's Products Inc. 200 Clara Ave. Ukiah, CA 95482 www.pamelasproducts.com Pamela's Cornbread Ingredients: Organic Degermed Corn Meal; Brown Rice Flour; White Rice Flour; Tapioca Starch; Sweet Rice Flour; Potato Starch; Organic Degermed Corn Flour; Grainless & Aluminum Free Baking Powder (Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Potato Continue Reading »
Udi's Double Chocolate Muffins
Posted on October 31, 2012
Product Tested: Udi's Double Chocolate Muffins Udi's Gluten-free http://udisglutenfree.com/products (303) 657-6366 7010 Broadway Suite #430, Denver, CO 80221 INGREDIENTS: EVAPORATED CANE JUICE, EGGS, FILTERED WATER, CHOCOLATE CHIPS (EVAPORATED CANE JUICE, CHOCOLATE LIQUOR, COCOA BUTTER), TAPIOCA STARCH, BROWN RICE FLOUR, CANOLA OIL OR SUNFLOWER OIL, COCOA POWDER, PALM SHORTENING, BAKING POWDER (SODIUM BICARBONATE, CORNSTARCH, CALCIUM SULFATE, MONOCALCIUM Continue Reading »
Mama's Pie Crust
Posted on October 31, 2012
Product Tested: Mama's Pie Crust Gluten Free Mama Kitchen, LLC http://glutenfreemama.com/ (406) 883 6426 509 3rd Street West, Polson, MT 59860 Ingredients: WHITE RICE FLOUR, TAPIOCA FLOUR, POTATO STARCH, ORGANIC EVAPORATED CANE SUGAR, SWEET RICE FLOUR, COCONUT FLOUR, SEA SALT AND XANTHAN GUM. While we love all of Gluten Free Mama's products, her pie crust Continue Reading »
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What's in it for me?
Human beings are selfish individuals. But there's an epidemic for women in the world – we tend to feel ashamed of our selfishness. As women, specifically, we often allow ourselves to be taken advantage of for no specific reason. How many times has a woman been a doormat because she didn't want to offend anyone or make waves?
Maybe it's time we, as women start asking a very simple question – "What's in it for me?" Because really, why would you do anything if you don't get something out of it? We go to work because we get paid, because it fulfills us personally, because we enjoy our co-workers or our accomplishments or our challenges. We have romantic relationships because they make us feel special, loved, because we enjoy spending time with the person we're in a relationship with.
What about friendships? What's in it for us? We have friends who support us, who love us, who are there for us when we need them. We have friends who supply fun, excitement and loads of laughs. We make friends and keep friends for all sorts of reasons and usually it's very easy to answer the question, "What's in it for me?" with your friends. But what happens when you answer "nothing"? Do we lay down and become a doormat for that so-called friend or do we truthfully accept the fact that if there's nothing in it for us, we shouldn't do it?
When you have a friend whose presence in your life is destructive rather than constructive, isn't it more constructive in your life to remove their presence and be a little selfish? Or should you keep dealing with their destructive behavior, hoping eventually they'll come around?
If we keep allowing our relationships to be one-sided and unfulfilling, aren't we just creating a self-fulfilling prophecy of doormat-isms? If you teach people how to treat you, maybe it's time for women to stop allowing ourselves to be surrounded by anyone whose presence doesn't have an immediate answer to the question "what's in it for me?"
The truth is, if someone doesn't add value to your life, they subtract it. Cut them out. It might feel selfish in the moment, but it will make you better and stronger in the long run.


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Day 1 | Arrive Beijing
Upon arrival in Beijing, China's capital, you will be greeted and escorted to your hotel. The balance of the day is free to relax or begin exploring on your own.
Day 2 | Beijing (B, L, SD)
Enjoy a full day tour of China's fascinating capital begins with the Tiananmen Square and the Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City, home of Chinese emperors for more than 500 years. After lunch, visit the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and later enjoy a boat ride on Kunming Lake (weather permitting).
Tonight enjoy a fabulous welcome banquet featuring Peking duck at Qianmen 1416 Duck Restaurant.
Day 3 | Beijing (B, L)
The highlight today is an excursion to the Great Wall at Mutianyu. A scenic cable car ride enhances your visit through the steep hills. Later visit the 798 Art District, known as the " Soho of Beijing", now developed into galleries, art centers, artist's studios, design companies, restaurants and bars. En route back to the city, drive around with photo stop at the National Stadium nicknamed the "Bird Nest", because of its unique design and the National Aquatics Center, known as the "Water Cube". Then, stroll down Houhai Bar Street, a beautiful lake which is surrounded by numerous of traditional hutongs and courtyards with popular bars and restaurants. Choose one for dinner on your own or with your guide's recommendation.
Day 4 | Beijing Xi'an (B, L)
This morning, take high speed train to the ancient city of Xi'an. Upon arrival, explore the Ancient Wall, built during the 14th century. Then visit Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the symbol of Xi'an. Check into your hotel.
Day 5 | Xi'an (B, L, DS)
Today's highlight is a visit to the Terra-Cotta Warriors and Horses Museum, home to an army of more than 6,000 life-size statues excavated from the tomb of the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty. After lunch, visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum, renowned for its collection of Han-and Tang-dynasty antiquities. A briefing will be given by an expert regarding the history, routes and stories of the ancient Silk Road – for Xi'an is the starting point of this age-old, strategic transportation channel. In the evening, enjoy a special dumpling dinner and cultural show recreating the music, costumes and dances of the Tang Dynasty.
Day 6 | Xi'an Dunhuang (B, L, D)
In the morning visit the Grand Mosque and the Muslim quarter. Take an afternoon flight to Dunhuang and transfer to the hotel.
Day 7 | Dunhuang (B, L, D)
Take an excursion to the Mogao Grottoes, the world's richest treasure trove of Buddhist manuscripts and art. Begun in 386 A.D. and added to over the next 9 centuries, the grottoes total over 45,000 square meters and boast over 2,000 murals and sculptures. Continue to Crescent Moon Lake and the impressive Singing Sand Dunes, where the oasis meets the desert.
Optional: Enjoy a camel ride into the dunes
Day 8 | Dunhuang Turpan (B, L, D)
Visit the White Horse Pagoda, then drive from Dunhuang to Liuyuan, passing sections of the Han Great Wall and several beacon tower ruins along the way. Board the overnight train to Turpan.
Day 9 | Turpan (B, L, D)
This morning you'll arrive in Turpan, the lowest place in China. Sightseeing features Gaochang, the ancient walled capital of the Uyghurs, which flourished between the 7th and 14th centuries. And the Flaming Mountains, named for their vibrant color. You'll also visit Grape Valley, in lush contrast to the desert surrounding it, and the amazing 2,000-year-old Karez Irrigation Tunnels, which brought water from melting snow on the mountains to this parched city. In the evening, attend a Cultural Show of Uygur Songs and Dances
Day 10 | Turpan Urumqi AB, L)
This morning's tour includes Suliman's Minaret and a local village. You'll also visit the ruins of Jiaohe City, where large fragments of actual streets and buildings remain. Drive to Urumqi after lunch. Enjoy the beautiful scenery en route.
Day 11 | Urumqi Kashgar (B, L, D)
After breakfast, drive about 2 hours to the Heavenly Lake with a visit to a yurt, traditional tent dwelling, on the way. This pristine lake is situated at a refreshing height of 1,980meters and is surrounded by jagged snow-covered peaks, forests of pine trees and green meadows. You will relish the lush scenery as you take a boat on the lake and do some light hiking. In the afternoon, view the significant archeological exhibits in Xinjiang Regional Museum, giving you real insight into the various customs and folklore of the area's dozen ethnic minorities. In addition, more than 10,000 cultural relics are displayed, including about eleven intriguing 3,000 year old corpses, some of European origin. After dinner, transfer to the airport for evening flight to Kashgar.
Day 12 | Kashgar Kalakuli Lake Kashgar (B, L, D)
After breakfast drive about 3 to 4 hours to Karakul Lake. The lake is located at 3,800 meters, close to two majestic permanently snow-capped mountains. The Tajiks, who graze camels and yaks, live in these high mountain pasturelands. Our journey there is along the scenic Karakorum Highway, followed by some hiking around the lake and lunch at local Uygur restaurant.
Drive back to Kashgar in the late afternoon.
Day 13 | Kashgar Urumqi (B, L, D)
After breakfast, visit Sunday Bazaar, a massive gathering of farmers and merchants from across the area. This colorful and lively market provides a great opportunity to pick up some of the Silk Road's most interesting souvenirs, from handmade leather boots, to traditional musical instruments, to bags of fresh spices. Kashgar is also the heart of Islam within China, and thus we pay a visit to the Id Kah Mosque, the largest in China. This beautifully decorated mosque more closely resembles a mosque in Pakistan or Afghanistan than China, and will attract up to 10,000 worshippers for Friday prayers. Visit Abakh Hoja Tomb, the burial place of a Muslim missionary and saint, and his 72 descendants. It looks like a multicolored miniature with green tiles on the walls and dome. After dinner fly to Urumqi and check into hotel.
Day 14 | Urumqi Shanghai (B, L)
Today's full-day excursion takes you to the pastures by the Southern Mountains where you will visit local herds. Take an evening flight to Shanghai and transfer to your hotel.
Day 15 | Shanghai (B, L, D)
This morning, visit to the Bund, the famous promenade along the Huangpu River. Then pay a visit to Shanghai Museum, China's most up-to-date museum showcasing the country's ancient glory. In the afternoon, visit Yu Garden, famous for its rock gardens, pavilions, halls and ponds, and Old Shanghai Bazaar, with shops filled with all manner of interesting curios. Enjoy the acrobatic show in the evening.
Day 16 | Shanghai Home (B)
Farewell to Shanghai. Transfer to the airport for your flight back to USA.
|Land Package is per person in double occupancy.
|Travel Month
|Land Only
2–5 Travelers
|Land Only
6–9 Travelers
|Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, 2017


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This is the third book in this series, and in my opinion, the best! In the earlier two books, two curious twelve year olds, George and Annie had some seriously interesting adventures that involved going to Jupiter and riding Comets and Asteroids. In this book, they have a new adventure on their hands.
It all starts with George's pet pig Freddy being moved to a farm. Not happy with this move, George and his friend Annie search for the best place for pigs to live. They do this on Annie's dad's supercomputer Cosmos, which knows everything there is to know! Cosmos directs them to a place supposedly ideal for pigs! As Cosmos opens a window for them to see this place, George and Annie can see the place is already filled with some people who seem to be having a meeting. To their puzzlement, the people seemed to be discussing how the large hadron collider (LHC) can be destroyed with a bomb! George and Annie know enough about the collider to know that it is about to carry out the most famous experiment in the history of physics: the recreation of the initial conditions of the birth of the universe. The people belong to TOERAG, an organization that believes that the experiment will destroy the world, and they are hell bent upon destroying the LHC, and the scientist working on it (including Annie's dad Eric) first! George and Annie have a tough mission on their hands: to stop a bomb that cannot be defused.
Their adventures take them to Geneva, the home of the LHC. In a race against time, George and Annie pit their brains against those of the fiendish members of TOERAG. Full of hairy moments, and scientific puzzles, this is a roller-coaster ride for George and Annie.
If you like science like me, and enjoy adventure books, then this is the book for you! You will not only learn about the Big Bang and the LHC but will also see the interesting side of many other physics concepts – including Schroedinger's cat, the Grid and the Higgs-Boson particle!
I rate this book 8/10. It may not be as well-written as Tolkein's Lord of the Rings trilogy but then few books are! Still, it is a valiant attempt to make science interesting to young readers, and for that Lucy and Stephen Hawking must be applauded.
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Oskar Blues Brewery
Here we have the brewery that taught me that "canned" is not synonymous with "crap," giving excellent craft beer in a recycleable, backpackable container that is impervious to skunking from light pollution, and lighter to ship, reducing shipping costs and carbon footprint.
I confess I was not kind to Mama's, tasting it *after* a Brewdog Hardcore IPA (of which more below). It's tough for a pilsner to follow a big IPA, precisely why tastings normally go from light, in body or alcohol, to heavy. Anyway, if a pilsner can be earthy, this is the one. It's more full and more rich than most pilsners, and yet it remains true to the style, malty with mild Saaz hops, with a dry finish from those hops. It may be a little cloudy, gold, with lacing more than an outright head. Mild nose, but then that earthy maltiness comes in with a touch of caramel and a nice effervescence. Very refreshing once it cut through that IPA! Sessionable, 5.3% ABV, 35 IBU.
This is their best seller dating back to their brewpub days in 2002. It pours with a creamy head and body, then on the palette it leads with earthy hops, and then malt and molasses come in. If they aged this in rum barrels it would take this to extraordinary. As is, it's extraordinarily solid for six pack drinking. There is a long smooth hoppy finish, with more hops than many IPAs.
They call it "A Voluminously Hopped Mutha," which begs the question, where is the line between Pale Ale and India Pale Ale? That line has certainly slid farther up the IBU scale, to 65 in this case. Bass Ale, an archetype pale ale before it was captured by InBev, is only 49 IBU. If someone doesn't like hops, I have to warn them away from pale ales these days, unless it's a Belgian (style) pale ale.
Be that as it may, months ago someone asked me what my "go to" beer is, implying "when you aren't drinking craft beer." I replied that I really don't have one. If I were to choose a "go to" beer it would be a craft beer, and it would probably be Dale's Pale Ale. 6.5% ABV.
Many beers are collaborations between one brewery and another, this one is a collaboration with a ski manufacturer. I heard that it was draft only and seasonal or a one off, but the picture from the brewery suggests that at least some of it made it into cans. Straw colored and quite clear, I found it citrusy with almost a unique nose, maybe Citra but reminding me of New Zealand hops. This seemed sessionable or close to it and worth the price of admission, piney as well as citrusy with solid malt backbone. Finish carries on with hops getting sweeter rather than more bitter. This was the star of the show because it was new to me (and very good!) Ok, Chubb and Ten Fidy are way up there. I hope this turns out to be a seasonal rather than a one-off! 7% ABV . . . so much for sessionable!!
This is a rich Scotch Ale, even smoother and creamier than the non nitro. Good big malty stuff. It's nutty like peanut brittle with hints of whiskey, chocolate and smoke. The finish has dark caramel sweetness mellowed by gentle hops. 6.9% ABV
Engine oil for craft beer motorheads! OK, it's a stout, but it pours as thick as motor oil then thunders onto the palette with massive malt, caramel, chocolate, and coffee. It has that lightly burnt roasted barley character with a richness like oatmeal . . . and somewhere on the finish I start to notice hops, tons of hops held in balance by the chocolate malt. 10.5% ABV, 98 IBU when I would have sworn it was half that. I went out immediately and found a 4-pack. This may be one of the best beers I ever had . . . though if I can get my hands on some more of the IceyPA . . .
Images courtesy of Oskar Blues Brewing
Now here's a tip of the hat to the first beer I had this evening:
This Imperial IPA starts with a mild head and aroma, then arrives on the palette with mouth-filling malt and earthy hops which power into the finish. I get toffee/caramel with a sharp edge, hopped and then dry hopped. They mention Centennial, Columbus, and Citra hops, lots and lots of hops, claiming 150 IBU and 9.2% ABV. Do *not* taste this and then expect to do justice to a pilsner!!


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Slowly getting there. I am now more than half way around the star. I'm hoping to have this to a flimsy before Christmas.....yes, it's creeping up on us!....♥
Just so this post is not too same, same and boring, I thought I would share what I have hanging up in my family room...
Little Teddies that I made all over the place......♥
Have a wonderful weekend. Stay safe ....♥


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Eighty percent of the scientists who have ever lived are alive today. More surprisingly, the same statement could have been made one, two, or even three centuries ago. Not only has science been expanding rapidly since the scientific revolution of the seventeenth century, it has emerged as a dominant force in our culture. This suggests why many educators have realized that an understanding of the evolution of science and of its influence on our society is a vital part of education. Study of the history of science provides just such understanding.
This introduction of the History of Science by Michael J. Crowe offers undergraduates a description of the field and a rationale for why this subject is interesting and important. The story gains perspective by quotes papered throughout the essay from scholars who have previously commented on the history of science. The site also answers popular questions undergrads might ask and suggests questions for discussion and reflection.


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THE SPRING HILL DOMINO CLUB IS A NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION. WE HAVE MONTHLY EVENTS IN AN EFFORT TO RAISE FUNDS FOR OUR ORGANIZATION SO WE MAY CONTINUE TO SPONSOR AND SUPPORT EDUCATION THROUGH OUR SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM . FOR INFORMATION ON OUR EVENTS, PLEASE CHECK US OUT ON OUR FACE BOOK PAGE:: firstname.lastname@example.com
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Dental Elements – Leawood Location
Address13018 State Line Rd
Leawood, KS 66209
Phone: (913) 498-8899
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Hours: Tuesday & Thursday: 8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. Friday 8:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Each member of our professional staff at Dental Elements maintains the highest levels of accreditation and pursue ongoing education to stay abreast of the latest trends in dentistry. Please scroll down to find out more about the members of our amazing team.
Kory Kirkegaard, DMD
Dr. Kory Kirkegaard is originally from Topeka. He attended the University of Kansas (Rock Chalk!) where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Minor in Business. He then completed his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine in Chicago, where he received much praise from his superiors.
After relocating to the Kansas City area, he is happy to be closer to family and friends and enjoys spending time with them. Being an avid KU basketball fan, he tries to watch as many games as possible throughout the season. In his free time he enjoys running, riding his bike, listening to his record collection, and spending time with his wife, Lauren. He loves participating in local chapters of Kansas' and Missouri's "Mission of Mercy", which offer free dental care to residents. He is constantly staying up to date to provide you with quality dentistry you deserve by being involved in study clubs and continuing education.
His emphasis is on you, the patient, and wants you to always feel comfortable throughout the visit.
Dr. Jake Meggison- Dentist
Dr. Meggison was born and raised in Berryton, Kansas. He attended college at The University of Kansas where he received his bachelors degree in Human Biology. There he met his wife, Ashley. After graduating from KU, they moved to Chicago where he attended The University of Illinois College of Dentistry and received his degree in Dental Sciences and Doctorate of Dental Surgery. Dr. Meggison and his wife lived in Chicago for 7 years before returning to Kansas. After working at its former location for a little over a year, Dr. Meggison purchased the dental practice from its former owner. As a result, in June of 2012, Dental Elements was born. As a practice owner he has been relentless in his efforts to update the technologies, techniques, and education needed to bring the level of care to the highest available. When not at the office Dr. Meggison enjoys spending time with his wife Ashley, and two sons, Tucker and Landon. His other interests include hunting, fishing, playing soccer, fitness, and cars.


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Money Saving Tips
Financial problems are never nice and, surely, taking a loan is always helpful and a definite way out. However, there are some things that might also be helpful while dealing with your cash troubles.
Save and Budget
Budgeting is really something that can save you a great deal of cash and a lot of people do not realize it. Many simply have no idea about financial planning and counting savings and expenditures. However, keeping track of your income and expenses is useful and it also helps in creating a clear picture of your money distribution.
Cell Phone Expenses
It also makes sense to pay more attention to the amount of money that you actually spend on cell phone. Perhaps, there are companies with better terms; and there is also a question whether you need a landline phone or not – perhaps you'll be fine with one.
Save Old Stuff
Surely, giving out old clothes to the Army of Salvation is a noble thing and your donation won't be useless. However, there is no need to spread the attitude to all the items at your house. Sometimes, old stuff can be repaired and redecorated and you'll get a new chair or a new lamp without spending cash on it.
Sales Do Help
Sales are not the nicest time for shopping with lots of people and all the agitation and queues. However, if you are short of cash on a regular basis and cannot afford expensive things, this is a way out. It is really helpful to plan your purchases when sales are happening – it is possible to buy the things you actually need at really discount prices (up to 70%), and you will see how much you will be able to save.
Early Booking Is the Key
Wherever you plan to travel, it is always wiser to book your flight and apartment beforehand. The closer to the date of the departure, the more expensive tickets get.
Find a Second Job
Surely, after a full-day shift it is much nicer to have a free night, go to the movies or eat out, or just stay at home and read a book. However, if your financial situation is really bad, there is a good point in finding some additional way to earn money.
Car Question
If you are a car owner, there is also some point in trading it for a smaller, a more compact model. It will take less gas and less space, it will be cheaper to maintain as well. Or, there is also a point in giving up one at all. Especially, if you can actually do without one and go to work by public transport or cycle – the cash you can save by such downsizing will definitely be a good addition to your income.
Be Content with Your Life
The thing about a person's nature is that we will always need more than we actually be happy with. So, the best tip here is to be happy with the things you have already, even if they are scarce. It doesn't mean that one should give up and live on social security benefits or else; however, figuring that life can be good with any amount of cash on your account is the wisest thing one can do.


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Now that 0.18.2 is out I had to take a bunch of time to replace some parts because of changes that were made to RCS Thrusters. Now I propose to make one more change before continuing.
Well I thought it was a great idea . . .
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!


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Carbonation/Carbonation Dispensers
Downtown Wholesalers (DTW)
Downtown Wholesalers (DTW) is your one-stop shop for all of your water supply needs. The company is committed to providing all of its customers with support when needed, consistent supplies, large inventory selections, and fast delivery. DTW carries a large variety of water products, all in stock and ready to ship to you overnight. Whether it's 50 caps, 100 bottles, or 1000 coolers, DTW is ready to service you with anything that you need.
5899 S. Downey Road
Vernon, CA 90058
Oasis International
Oasis pioneered the delivery of clean drinking water with such products as bottle fillers, water coolers, bottleless coolers, under counter coolers, and countless environmentally friendly products. Along the way, Oasis International became a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of clean drinking water systems. More importantly, the company develops water-friendly solutions that provide clean, safe drinking water for everyone, everywhere.
222 East Campus View Blvd.
Columbus, OH 43235
MTN Products, Inc.
MTN Products is a leading supplier of bottled water coolers, filtration/point-of-use water coolers, and innovative beverage dispensers. Brands include Inspirations®, Inspirations® LX, Nexus™ FS, Nexus™ LXp, Nexus® CT, Horizons® 3G, Horizons® CT, Horizons® 3Gg, Horizons® CT SoftTouch, AquaBarista™ (gourmet coffee and tea brewer), AquaHost™ (bottom loading bottled water and POU cooler), the innovative AquaCafé® (an integrated coffee/tea brewer and water cooler), AquaCafé (residential and small office-integrated coffee/tea brewer and water cooler), AquaHostess™ (residential and small office water cooler), and lavít Sparkling Beverage System.
1770 Bracket Street
La Verne, CA 91750
Bell Sales, Inc.
Bell Sales, Inc. is a manufacturer representative/distributor firm. BSI specializes in products for the bottled water and office coffee industries.
1 Commerce Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
Allied Purchasing
Allied Purchasing is a member-owned purchasing co-op established in 1937 to improve members' bottom line through volume purchasing. Allied purchases equipment, packaging supplies, and ingredients for the bottled water, water treatment, dairy, soft drink, and brewing industries. Now serving over 2,000 members nationwide.
PO Box 1249
1334 18th Street, SW
Mason City, IA 50401


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Legacy Iron Ore (ASX:LCY) has shown the financial strength and benefit of its largest shareholder, Indian colossus National Mineral Development Corporation (NSE:NMDC) by gaining a low cost loan of $2.7 million from Citibank.
Backed by NMDC's guarantee, Legacy Iron received loan proposals from multiple banks including Citibank.
The Citibank facility is a short-term loan on "very competitive pricing and terms," the company said.
NMDC under Indian Government's Ministry of Steel is the country's largest producer and exporter of iron ore and has a massive balance sheet.
Legacy Iron can draw down the A$2.7 million Citibank loan facility as needed and is still assessing medium term funding requirements and associated capital raising options.
Proactive Investors Australia is the market leader in producing news, articles and research reports on ASX "Small and Mid-cap" stocks with distribution in Australia, UK, North America and Hong Kong / China.


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"Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do." (Coach John Wooden)
Beyond hearing aids.
Dr. Brad Ingrao, Au.D – an Advanced Practice Clinical Audiologist
Dr. Ingrao, of the Veterans Healthcare System in Long Beach, will discuss Assistive Technology beyond hearing aids. Your hearing has been optimized with aids specific to your type of hearing loss. Additional hearing improvement and options are available. Dr. Ingrao will describe how these new Assistive Devices can enhance your hearing under various conditions. In addition, he will cover veterans offerings by the Veterans Administration. Any related questions are welcome.
Date: Monday April 10, 2017
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Place: Norman P. Murray Community Center
Juniper Room
24932 Veterans Way
Mission Viejo, CA 92692
Our meeting room is looped and our meetings are captioned.
The Mission Viejo Chapter offers people with hearing loss (and family and friends) a
chance to gather in a quiet room with good acoustics, and to meet others who share your challenges as we all learn to cope better in a hearing world.
Hearing Loss Association of America, Mission Viejo Chapter, is a
nonprofit 501 (c) (3) exempt organization.


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I combined two of our favorite foods for dinner tonight, lasagna and cupcakes!
I used my favorite lasagna recipe for these, World's Best Lasagna. I cooked the noodles aldente, cut them into thirds, sprayed cupcake tins with olive oil and then layered the noodles, cheese and sauce in this order...
- 1/3 noodle (pushed into tin)
- layer of ricotta
- 1/3 noodle (pushed into tin)
- spoonful of sauce
- slice of mozzarella
- layer of ricotta
- 1/3 noodle (lay on top)
- spoonful of sauce
- slice of mozzarella
- grated parmesan cheese
I eventually figured out that cutting the swirly edge off the noodles made the process easier.
Pre-oven shot...
I baked these for ~25 minutes in a 350 degree oven. They slid right out of the tin! The edges of the noodles turned out a bit crispy but still very yummy!
Lasagna Cupcakes
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Posted by LimeRiot at 2:56 PM
4 comments
- Rachel said...
Next time, I'm coming for dinner. Yum!
- April 5, 2011 at 9:32 PM
- Tina said...
Oh my gosh that is awesome!! This would be perfect for me to make as my husband is the only one who can eat dairy, and it isn't fair to him to never get lasagna. Makes freezing individual portions that much easier too I would guess :)
Followed your craftster.org link here.
- April 14, 2011 at 9:15 AM
- Judy said...
We are going to have these soon!
- April 27, 2011 at 8:48 PM
- GardenofDaisies (Gayle) said...
What a fun idea! The party version of lasagna! :-)
- July 13, 2011 at 11:26 AM
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As we approach this annual holiday and its focus on food, we could certainly discuss pride in our Thanksgiving table setting, or mashed potato and gravy lust, and I bet you would envy my gingered cranberry sauce with pecans!
But let's face facts: Thanksgiving dinner is all about gluttony.
It might reassure you to know that the "seven deadly sins" are not necessarily deadly. They certainly are not charming personality attributes, but mortal wounding of your very soul is unlikely from simply overeating.
Gluttony makes the "sin" list because you are, in theory, taking food away from people who need it. It kind of gives new meaning to parental threats about unclean plates and China.
Thomas Aquinas, a prominent medieval church figure, was a "splitter" and came up with a whole list of gluttonous behavior. You can not only eat too much, but you can eat too soon, too eagerly, excessively daintily, or wildly (like a beast). Even doing all these simultaneously does not rise to mortal sin-hood, but it is an amusing mental picture.
The average Thanksgiving dinner has a whopping 3,000 calories and more than 200 grams of fat. Over the course of the day most people snack their way to a total of 4,500 calories.
You could easily burn through those calories with 20 hours of housework, a 30-mile brisk walk or five hours of pick-up basketball.
For the record, lust-related activity is good for 300 calories an hour, or perhaps more realistically 150 per half hour. And that is just working through dinner calories, not the whole day's food orgy. And by the way, who feels like playing basketball after a big dinner?
So your best hope is a preemptive strike. This means, perhaps counter-intuitively, eat a very light lunch. Because lunch fare is much less calorically dense than traditionally holiday food, you will come out ahead.
Balancing your plate is also useful. Put a variety of foods on your plate, including vegetables and salad. Don't go back for seconds on your favorites until you have eaten these less sinful foods.
Savor the meal by chewing slowly so you can really taste everything. After all, that is the point, and it allows you to recognize much better when you are actually full.
Another suggestion is consider using a smaller plate. If a plate-full is the expectation for the meal, you can limit the damage.
Remember the holiday season is a war, not a battle; a marathon, not a sprint. There are numerous opportunities for food-centric celebration over the next five weeks. Some restraint shown this Thursday means you can play later, too.
As for the rest of the deadly sins – we can consider them on New Years.
Have a great Thanksgiving.
Dr. B
Donald Bucklin, MD (Dr. B) is a Regional Medical Director for U.S. HealthWorks and has been practicing clinical occupational medicine for more than 25 years. Dr. B. works in our Scottsdale, Arizona clinic.
Images courtesy/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net


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School choice is the opportunity for parents to choose the educational environment that they believe will most benefit their child, regardless of family income or address. School choice programs, such as the Iowa STO program and proposed Education Savings Accounts, remove the economic barriers that prevent parents from choosing the ideal educational option for their child's needs. With school choice, students receive funding that allows them to choose their "best-fit" school.
What are the benefits of school choice? Studies regarding school choice demonstrate that:
- School choice programs contribute to better test scores for all students and higher graduation rates.
- Parents are more satisfied and involved with their children's school.
- Taxpayers save millions of dollars.
- Public schools respond positively to competition.
A January 2017 Iowa Poll commissioned by Iowa ACE and conducted by Braun Research shows overwhelming support for school choice in Iowa! Here are the summary documents:
You can find a wealth of information at the following sites:
American Federation for Children


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- Charities Respond to World Crises: The social sector responded to tragedy with compassion, acting to help around the globe on a number of issues, including the Syrian refugee crisis, the Yemen humanitarian crisis, and the Nepal earthquake.
- Charity Cancer Scam: In an unprecedented collaboration, the FTC and 58 law enforcement agencies put a web of sham cancer charities out of business.
- CN Giving Basket: Charity Navigator launched the Giving Basket, a new tool to streamline giving by seamlessly integrating the process into our website.
Welcome to Charity Navigator's Blog!
The team from Charity Navigator, the nation's largest independent charity evaluator and leading donor advocate, shares their thoughts on emerging nonprofit-sector issues and offers tips to better inform your intelligent giving decisions.
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Key Stories in Philanthropy in 2015
Every year contains many important stories and moments in the philanthropic sector, and 2015 was no exception. Here are just a few of the stories that caught our attention this year:
1 comment:
- Bytes said...
Thanks for sharing.
NGO India
- December 31, 2015 at 1:41 PM
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What Match Type Should I be Using?
A very common question asked of me on a regular basis by our clients. When starting your Adwords campaign, it can be very confusing as to what match types you should use when driving traffic. Not all match types are applicable and some match types are only useful during certain phases of your campaign. If you are not familiar with Match types in Google Adwords, I'll use the official definition by Google provided below:
"Each keyword uses a matching option to help control which searches should trigger your ad to show. You can choose one or more matching options for a keyword. If you don't specify a particular matching option, keywords are considered as broad match."
So in essence, each Match Type allows you to open or constrict traffic on any keyword you may be bidding on in the Adwords Google platform.
Different Match Types
Here's a summary of the options I took from their Adwords support page:
Broad match allows your ad to show for searches on similar phrases and relevant variations, including synonyms, singular and plural forms, possible misspellings, stemmings (such as floor and flooring), related searches, and other relevant variations..
• Example: kittens
• Searches that can match: kittens, kitten photos, adopt a kitten
Broad match modifier allows your ad to show for searches that include your broad match keyword or close variations of your broad match keyword.
• Example: +adopt +kitten
• Searches that can match: adopt kitten, how to adopt a kitten, best kitten to adopt
Phrase match allows your ad to show only for searches that include the exact phrase, or close variations of that exact phrase, with additional words before or after.
• Example: "adopt a kitten"
• Searches that can match: adopt a kitten, adopt a kiten, how to adopt a kitten
Exact match allows your ad to show only for searches that use that exact phrase, or close variations of that exact phrase, and no other words.
• Example: [adopt a kitten]
• Search that can match: adopt a kitten, adopt a kiten
Negative match ensures that your ad doesn't show for any search that includes that term.
• Example: -free
• Searches that won't match: free kitten adoption, free kitten calendars, who wants to free the kittens
Disclaimer: Understanding the role of each Match Type is extremely important and a pro understands how to use them effectively and efficiently, if your not a professional, hire one, you are better off hiring an agency like ours or someone who does this full time and helps you avoid the costly mistakes and pitfalls! If your not going to hire someone and want to go at it alone, please read on.
Rule#1: Know the Rules! Invest the Time and Energy In Understanding What You Are About to Do!
Each Match Type can either harm you or help you depending on your strategy and current phase of your campaign. It never seems to amaze me how little people know about Match Types, especially someone who has never used Adwords. The worse part is typically the user is encouraged by Google and/or the automated suggestion tool to add numerous keywords, but is never really explained how Match Types can help them, therefore they create an automatic default process for the user which typically means they will be using the Broad Match Type and typically this doesn't help nor does it explain to the user the financial repercussions of this decision! Therefore my first tip/rule is: Know the Rules! You cant be successful if you don't understand the rules.
In the next few articles, I will be expanding on these ideas, providing additional insight into how to strategize using Match Types!
If you need help or think that you need help regarding this new change or any other changes in paid traffic please contact us at email@example.com or call us at 305-389 8955
To your success,
Emilio Yepez
Lighthouse Internet media
Phone: 305-389-8955
AIM: affiliateagle
Skype: emilioyepez
Twitter: affiliateagle
Linkedin: Click Here
About Emilio Yepez:
Lighthouse Internet Media is a digital marketing agency located in Miami, Florida! Its Founder Emilio Yepez is a performance driven executive manager with over 19 years of Internet Marketing, Retail & Operations.
In 1996 he started a successful career with (IAC) Inter Active Corp/Interval International. During his 11 year career at IAC I held various responsibilities ranging from Operations, Customers Service to Managerial roles as a Divisional Manager for Hyatt & Marriott Resorts.
In 2006 he resigned from IAC and decided to co found ARC Media Consultants where he was Vice President of Operations, Business Development and Internet Marketing.
In the winter of 2010 he was recruited by MBF Health Care Partners, a prominent Equity Firm located in Coral Gables, Florida. While at MBF he was tasked with spearheading the strategic planning & development of their retail acquisition (Navarro.com), the first Hispanic retail pharmacy e Commerce site on the web.
As President of Lighthouse Internet Media he has personally consulted over 400 businesses, including major Internet Retailer 500 Companies, consumer product, sales and call center companies in the US.
Digital/Online Strengths & Expertise:
Pay Per Click Marketing (Paid Traffic)
Direct Response Marketing
Search Engine Optimization
Affiliate Marketing
Media Buying
Email Marketing
Social Media Marketing
Web Development
Business Strengths:
Strategic Business Planning & Consulting
Business Processes & Systems Implementation
In depth Marketing Research & Analysis
Call Center Operations & Management
Efficiency Expertise
Risk Assessment & Management
Retail Management
Leadership & Development
Leadership Theory & Practice
Equity Management & Finance
Personal Interests & Studies:
Christianity -Spiritual Studies
Quantum Mechanics
Deductive Logic & Reasoning
Creative Thinking & Problem Solving
Psychology & Nuero-Science
Golf & Polo


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Three young knights defend their castle from "a red-and-white knight and eight dragons. Oh dear!"
Santa travels back in time to a fanciful medieval Europe with knights, lords, and castles in this clever parody of "The Night Before Christmas." The text unfolds in pitch-perfect rhymes that follow the basic pattern of the classic poem, with the addition of witty wordplay incorporated into speech balloons and in signs, lists, and banners on the castle walls. The three knights are named Brave Knight, Polite Knight, and Silent Knight, each with a distinct, appropriate personality. When Santa arrives to deliver gifts to the castle, the knights see him as an intruder and try to repel his advances. Santa is just as determined as the knights to succeed in his own mission. He flings his presents and holiday decorations into the castle with an evergreen-tree catapult, which the knights then appropriate for the castle's Christmas tree. Digitally produced illustrations in deep jewel tones successfully bring to life the complex physical world of the castle and skillfully meet the logistical challenges of the knights' battle of airborne gifts with Santa. There's an excellent interplay between the amusing illustrations and the polished text, with lots of clever jokes for readers to discover in the art.
These knights know how to keep the castle safe and the readers entertained. (Picture book. 4-8)


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Samsung recently announced the new Galaxy S Advance smartphone. This handset comes with the curved glass design, which enhances the handling of the device and fits the user's facial form easily. Sadly, this handset runs on the old Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) Operating System. The folks living in the UK has a reason to cheer. Three UK recently announced that the new Samsung Galaxy S Advance will be exclusively available for its consumers in the coming weeks.
Sylvia Chind, head of handsets at Three said, "The Samsung Galaxy S Advance combines eye-catching design with powerful technology specs that make for an outstanding smartphone experience. Coupled with Three's fast 3G network, videos will download quickly so you won't be left in the dark waiting for the latest movie trailers to download."
Samsung Galaxy S Advance features a 4 inch Super AMOLED display, sporting a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, 1 GHz dual-core processor, Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) OS, TouchWiz user interface, 5 megapixel auto-focus camera with LED flash, 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera for video calls, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, 14.4 Mbps HSDPA connectivity and much more.
Other features include a 3.5 mm headset jack, music player with SoundAlive, stereo FM Radio with RDS, 8 GB internal memory, 768 MB RAM, microSD card slot, 32 GB expandable memory, Bluetooth 3.0, USB 2.0, ChatON, Readers Hub, Music Hub, Social Hub, Polaris Office, Samsung Kies 2.0, A-GPS, Samsung Apps, Android Market and a 1500 mAh Li-ion battery.
Three UK customers can get the new Samsung Galaxy S Advance for free with a 2 year service agreement. Other major carriers such as O2, Vodafone, T-Mobile and Orange has not yet announced the availability of this smartphone in the UK.


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Saddle Pals hits a new low for Gene Autry's postwar Republic westerns, containing literally no action at all. Autry is drawn into the plot when he's given power of attorney in a property settlement involving his old pal (Sterling Holloway) and a gang of land swindlers. The pal then goes on an extended vacation...more
All Saddle Pals cast + crew photos
Movies.com, the ultimate source for everything movies, is your destination for new movie trailers, reviews, photos, times, tickets + more! Stay in the know with the latest movie news and cast interviews at Movies.com.
Copyright © 2019 FANDANGO MOVIES.


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Good fabrics for body pillows for pregnancy
1. Cotton
Cotton is the most popular material today. This material can be knit, weave with different thickness, smooth, weights can be used to sew most types of pillows. Cotton is the most favored material because it is suitable for all shapes, well adapted in all weathers and environments.
Cotton fabric is a synthetic fiber made from the raw material cotton with many other natural materials and chemicals. Cotton is cheaper than the product is mixed with other fibers. It has high durability, fast drying. Cotton can absorb moisture and sweat, reduce heat, bring comfort to the user.
2. Flannel
The first advantage that flannel brings is soft and warm. It is warmer than many other types of wool or cotton, thanks to its smooth short coat and its double-sided structure. Fabrics with the advantage that it can be used on both sides.
The second advantage that makes flannel is always preferred is because the fabric is less waterproof. It is very well suited to the winter climate with hoar frost and drizzle. On the other hand, when washing, flannel dries faster than cotton and wool. Flannel products are also lighter weight than other fabrics.
The third advantage that flannel fabric brings is the variety of colors and designs. Fabrics have a rich palette and a variety of different patterns for you to choose.
3. Linen
Linen is a material made from nature. Linen fabrics are woven from flax. When looking at linen is linen has high crease, simplicity and close to nature. It is cool material, suitable for summer, but also moisture absorption and keeps warm in winter. However, the cost of linen is quite high.
Linen fabric will be softer and more beautiful after using for a long time and at the same time with the structure of 100% natural fibers, when dry washed, the fabric will have light, small wrinkles, creating style and personality characteristics for each design.
Linen fabric does not cause allergy or skin irritation when used. Linen material is resistant to ultraviolet rays, antibacterial, especially with high durability. Therefore, it's suitable for body pillows for pregnancy.


text: On Thu, 2005-07-14 at 17:54 +0200, Joe Armstrong (AL/EAB) wrote: > > To > > ask people to partition the system using a completely new > > language they have > > no experience with is not attractive enough. Everything you > > need to do in > > erlang you also have to be able to do on the C++ side as > > well. If you could > > make it so it could all be done in one language that would be > > attractive. > > It would be attractive - but I think it is unrealistic. > > I use yacc/lex to write a parser/tokeniser, I write makefiles, shell scripts, > > These are all specialist languages which do specialist and well-defined jobs. > > Prolog is *wonderful* for data base queries and visual basic for a quick GUI. > > My biggest grumble is not "that I can't do everything in one language" but > more that "All the nice tools don't work the same way on all OSs" and > "interoperability between tools is non-existant". > > It seems to me that peoples dislike of using multiple languages in one application > is rooted in the horrendous problems of interfacing things written in different languages together. > > This is a crazy situation. If language X is best for solving problem X then > I should use X and no other language. Same for Y. If I need an X and Y in the same system then it often turns out that it is painfully difficult to connect X to Y. > > So difficult that, that which should have been written in X is re-written in Y, > or vice. versa, whichever is the easier. Scandalous. > > Language designers must think about interoperability. Somewhere there has been an opinion, that managers hate multiple languages, as it's difficult to find programmes fluent in just the right combination. Although a good programmer should be able to do reasonable job in any language, I personally would hate to start using C++. And last spring I had to program a little with Ada. I was constantly fighting against the STRONG typing, trying to make shortcuts in C-style, void pointers, unions and such. I just could not make my mind up to it. Which is funny, as in OCCAM I found the need to make explicit number casting in arithmetic a good think. But that's the one side of embedded world. But I'm still all to the right language to right tool philosophy. Somehow it just has been come to only C for low level, Tcl/Tk for graphics and format manipulation. And Erlang for the rest. Interoperability via ASCII files. Still to find good enough reason to go for XML ... So maybe the managers are somewhat right. Anyway, although there are nice languages and libraries to make graphics (Tk, gtk+glade, python etc), I have even heard of people trying to do graphics with Erlang and X :) And someone even spending good summer days by making line plotting widget on top of ex11 instead of reading a good book ... it still needs a bit of work :( regards Jouni -- Jouni Rynö mailto://firstname.lastname@example.com/ http://www.geo.fmi.fi/~ryno/ Finnish Meteorological Institute http://www.fmi.fi/ Space Research http://www.geo.fmi.fi/ P.O.BOX 503 Tel (+358)-9-19294656 FIN-00101 Helsinki FAX (+358)-9-19294603 Finland priv-GSM (+358)-50-5302903 "It's just zeros and ones, it cannot be hard"


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MOSCOW — Kyrgyzstan has essentially reversed a decision to close an American air base that is central to the NATO mission in nearby Afghanistan, after the United States acceded to sharply higher rent and to minor restrictions on the site, Kyrgyz and American officials said Tuesday.
The turnabout is a victory for the Obama administration as it seeks to step up operations to quell the Taliban insurgency in Afghanistan. The Kyrgyz government had ordered the base closed in February, apparently under pressure from the Kremlin, which has resented the deep American military presence in an area of the world that it has long considered its zone of influence.
The Manas Air Base in Kyrgyzstan has been used since 2001 as a refueling stop and transit hub for operations in Afghanistan. Thousands of personnel and roughly 500 tons of cargo pass through the base each month.
It has also been a focal point in the struggle between the United States and Russia for influence in the countries of the former Soviet Union. Russia pledged a $2 billion loan to Kyrgyzstan on the day in February that the Kyrgyz president announced that the United States would be evicted from the base.
It was not immediately clear what role the Russian government played in the new agreement between the Kyrgyz and American governments, but President Obama is scheduled to travel to Moscow next month for a summit meeting with Russia's president, Dmitri A. Medvedev, and the two powers have been seeking to improve relations in recent months.Continue reading the main story
The Kyrgyz and American governments both said the new arrangement would put limitations on the base. But neither side could point to any significant ones, and it seemed as if the agreement was written to offer the Kyrgyz government a face-saving way to undo its earlier decision.
For example, the base is to be renamed a transit center, as opposed to an air base. And the Kyrgyz will control security around the base; currently, American military personnel do. The text of the new agreement specifies few other restrictions on how the United States can use the base. There do not seem to be any prohibitions on shipping weaponry.
One major change, though, is the rent. It will rise to $60 million annually from $17.4 million, Kadyrbek Sarbayev, Kyrgyzstan's foreign minister, told the Kyrgyz Parliament on Tuesday.
Washington will also pay $36.6 million to expand the airport and will contribute tens of millions of dollars toward economic development and the fight against drug trafficking, Mr. Sarbayev said. He said the agreement would be for one year and would be contingent on the situation in Afghanistan.
Ian C. Kelly, a State Department spokesman, confirmed the accord at a daily news briefing but declined to discuss details.
The agreement now goes before the Kyrgyz Parliament for ratification, which is considered all but assured.
The United States had pursued a strenuous campaign to persuade the Kyrgyz government to reconsider ahead of the Aug. 18 eviction date.
This month, President Obama sent a letter to the Kyrgyz president, Kurmanbek S. Bakiyev, calling for greater cooperation in the fight against terrorism, Kyrgyz officials said. The officials insisted at the time that the American base would close on schedule.
On Tuesday, Russia's Foreign Ministry said in a statement that it was Kyrgyzstan's "sovereign right" to forge the agreement, which it said limited operations at the base to the transport of nonlethal cargo. In fact, there is no such stipulation.
"If the issue is transit of nonmilitary NATO cargo for use in the counterterrorist operation in Afghanistan, then Russia and Kyrgyzstan's neighbors have also given their permission for this," the statement posted on the ministry's Web site said.
The Kyrgyz government also said the new arrangement was fundamentally different from the previous one. "It is to be a transit center for supporting operations of antiterrorist forces," said Almas I. Turdumamatov, a spokesman for Kyrgyzstan's president.
Some Kyrgyz politicians said the new arrangement was just cosmetic.
"I think the base will remain, but only under a different name," said Bakyt Beshimov, leader of the opposition Social Democrats in Parliament. "Substantively, nothing is changing."
According to the text of the new agreement, United States personnel and contractors can transport "any kinds of personal belongings, equipment, supplies, materials and technologies" into and out of Kyrgyzstan.
Supplies will be exempt from inspection or licensing by the Kyrgyz government, the agreement says.
There had long been speculation that the Kyrgyz government never intended to evict the Americans, but only wanted more rent.
In announcing the eviction, Mr. Bakiyev cited Washington's failure to adequately compensate the government. Relations also soured in 2006 when an American serviceman killed a Kyrgyz driver on the base.Continue reading the main story


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Wednesday, December 5, 2012
《神槍狙擊2013》 "Sniper Attack 2013" Costume Fitting
Date: December 6, 2012
Temporary Chinese title: 《神槍狙擊2013》
Pinyin title: San Cheung Jui Gik
Temporary English title: "Sniper Attack 2013"
Producer: Kwan Wing Chung
Attending Cast: Eddie Cheung, Michael Tse, Kate Tsui, Eliza Sam, Alice Chan, Kayi Cheung, Chun Wong, Lee Kwok Lun, Miki Yeung, Leo Lee, Jimmy Au, Suet Nei, Lee Chi Kei, Vincent Lam, William Chak, Alan Wan, Nathan Ngai, Otto Chan, Tsang Sau Ming, Yeung Chiu Hoi, Lau Tin Lung, Joe Junior, Joseph Yeung, Henry Lo, Chan Wing Chun, Rocky Cheng, Russell Cheung, and Apple Chan.
Time: 12:30
Place: Tseung Kwan O TVB City Studio One Common Room
Personal Note: Ha ha.... William Chak and Tsang Sau Ming portraying SDU members again! :P
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Methadone withdrawal will certainly be called for eventually, after methadone maintenance or a discomfort management program using methadone has actually begun. If your feeling oppressed by needing to go to a Montville NJ clinic or a pharmacy day-to-day and also going through heck if you want to take a trip, there is an escape.
Methadone usage creates a numb feeling to living, significant belly problems as well as physical reliance that beats all others; that's the list. All kinds of other health issue that methadone usage generated are exposed as soon as beginning methadone withdrawal. I'll provide you some solution to help right now, as well as better services to deal with the issue to ending methadone dependence forever.
Methadone Use Is Epidemic
Dependencies doctors and pain administration clinics in New Jersey are persistently suggesting methadone for opiate misuse as well as persistent pain, however just what are the consequences of methadone use? I've noted many listed below. If you've currently attempted Methadone withdrawal and had issues, I have actually obtained some help you wouldn't have actually found somewhere else.
Once it is time to start methadone withdrawal, many individuals are having BIG problems ending their methadone use. Just how does one withdraw from methadone in Montville New Jersey? What challenges will they have to conquer?
Methadone Withdrawal Challenges
- Methadone use makes people unfeeling, numb
- Even stepping down from methadone can expose hyper sensitivity to discomfort and nutritional depletion symptoms — cramping, aches, nervousness, sleeplessness
- Methadone withdrawal is often 4 times longer and more difficult than heroin once the drug has been abused or used incorrectly for long periods of time
- Withdrawing from methadone can give pains and aches which people can mistake for stress and pain from past accidents
I'm writing for those having trouble with methadone withdrawal. If you are experiencing no worry withdrawing from methadone, do not fret you are just one of the lucky ones.
The reality is that several addictions physicians and also discomfort monitoring professionals in Montville are acting upon the recommendations from their peers and advisors. They are not informed of the fatalities as a result of prescribed methadone usage neither the difficulties that occasionally occur when taking out from methadone use.
The worry regrettably lies with the consumer.
Vital: extensively research medicines or drugs yourself prior to you buy or take them. The results could be gruesome. They additionally could have harmful interactive impacts when taken with various other drugs.
Several if not every one of methadone results are triggered by dietary shortages. Methadone use develops nutritional exhaustion – particularly calcium and magnesium depletion. An additional is B vitamin shortage. This is how these shortages appear.
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Methadone Withdrawal Symptoms
- Anxiety over sensations, pains and discomforts returning
- Sleeplessness
- Sneezing
- Cramping of legs and arms
- Bone aches
- Flu or dope sick
Methadone withdrawal will certainly require a lot of extra dietary supplementation. That indicates it's time to feed the body. Calcium and magnesium will help with the cramping etc. Yet there will certainly be some difficulty lots of will have taking their nutrients – a poor digestive tract.
Video: Methadone Clinics in Montville
A Poor Gut
Methadone and anxiousness medications have the tendency to ruin the digestive tract cellular lining. A leaking digestive tract provides discomforts when eating or allergic reactions, prone to health issues as well as skin problems. Another signs and symptom of a dripping gut is impatience and also a 'bad attitude'. The perspective could have physical reasons unmentioned by the person.
A great suggestion to helping the digestive tract problem is eating lots of top quality yogurt with real-time probiotics in it, like acidophilus and also bifidus. One could also supplement with big quantities of glutathione – an antioxidant to aid the detoxification process.
The amount of nutrients required during methadone withdrawal is taken too lightly so typically that I shake my head in wonder.
Medicines Like Methadone Are Toxins
The issue with methadone is that it is poisonous to the body. Your body knows it, but you could not. Taking methadone challenges your body organs to purify the body and also secure the vital body organs prior to they are severely damaged.
Contaminants give the body a tough time. If you have actually seen drug addict with dark circles under their eyes, grey skin, bad skin, hair befalling, reduced power, odd ailments, and so on they're got dietary shortages. Those deficiencies are difficult to recover from with food alone. In some cases that food isn't really being properly digested = negative digestive tract.
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Methadone Detoxification
Detoxing the body is greater than just quiting drug use. Substance abuse creates inner body damage you could not right away acknowledge. Nonetheless, the body will certainly attempt to detoxify right after drug use and recover itself making use of any nutrients readily available. If the nutrients aren't readily available, the body will certainly borrow (take) them from the bones, nervous system or other essential functions.
Some will require medical detox from methadone – the problem is that most Montville methadone detox centers don't use nutritional supplements as part of their program. They just give more medications, and often not the right ones. The lack of full understanding on Methadone detox creates a brutal scene to withdraw from.
The Bright Side
The good news is that I've discovered the tools as well as the detox centers in NJ that can beat methadone withdrawal smoothly and conveniently.More:
Methadone Videos:
Video: Confessions of a Methadone Nurse
methadone clinic Montville NJ
Methadone Clinic in Montville NJ
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Montville Township Public Schools Publishes Collection of Student Writings on Character
MONTVILLE, NJ –Recently published student authors will sign copies of their new book "A Road Map for Respect, Kindness, Gratitude, Grit, Courage and Resilience" on Tuesday, May 28, from 3:30 – 5:00 ...
Something New On NJ Beaches And Boardwalks This Year: No Smoking
Phil Murphy signed the legislation last year. (Gov. Murphy photo) There's something new on New Jersey beaches and boardwalks this year. And it may be why you're breathing a little easier while ...
Ex-NJ middle school teacher gets 3 years in sex abuse case
ELIZABETH, N.J. — A former New Jersey middle school teacher has been ... Goodlin taught at Secaucus High from 1979 through 1991 and in Montville and Cresskill between 1991 and 1993. ...
Check Out These 13 Live Events Coming Up Near Montville
MONTVILLE, NJ — Shawn Mendes. WWE: Monday Night Raw. Jonas Brothers. Paw Patrol Live. These are just a few of the big-ticket events coming up in the Montville area — and seats are going fast! ...
Delbarton righty Jack Leiter named Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year
Delbarton senior right-hander Jack Leiter has been named the Gatorade New Jersey baseball Player of the Year ... the Morris County Tournament baseball final against Morristown at Montville High School ...
Montville Baseball Breaks Out in 11-0 State Tournament Win over Sparta
MONTVILLE, NJ - The Montville baseball team has certainly had its share of struggles offensively of late, as it was averaging under three runs per game over the team's last eight games, a stretch in ...
(VIDEO) Montville teacher recalls challenge in Caldwell University commencement speech
While Castronova, a science teacher at Robert Lazar Middle School in Montville, has had her Ph.D. for only six ... who served as the first secretary of higher education in New Jersey from 2011 to 2018 ...
Montville (2) at Roxbury (7) - Baseball
Will Findlay was 4-for-4 with two solo home runs, two RBI and three runs to lead Roxbury to a 7-2 win over Montville in Succasunna. ...
Montville High schoolers share business, entrepreneurship techniques with elementary peers
MONTVILLE TWP. - "Business" and "Entrepreneurship" are two words that elementary school students often furrow their eyebrows upon hearing. But not anymore. Junior Achievement of New Jersey has ...
Montville's Ron Galella shot the stars, and the stars took pot shots at him
and has been sued and been beaten up by them as well. Check out this story on northjersey.com: ...
Doctors around Montville, NJ: Doctors Around Montville
AARP offers tools to answer your health care questions, to help manage your health information and to help you learn about medical conditions, symptoms and procedures. Start now by selecting a tool ...
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More Montville Information:
Montville, New Jersey
Montville is a township in Morris County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2010 United States Census, the township's population was 21,528,[9][10][11] reflecting an increase of 689 (+3.3%) from the 20,839 counted in the 2000 Census, which had in turn increased by 5,239 (+33.6%) from the 15,600 counted in the 1990 Census.[19]
In Money magazine's 2013 Best Places to Live rankings, Montville was ranked 13th in the nation, the second-highest among the three places in New Jersey included in the top 50 list.[22][23] The township was ranked 17th in the magazine's 2011 ranking of the "Best Places to Live", the highest-ranked place in New Jersey, after having been ranked 13th in 2007.[24][25] In 2009, Money magazine named Montville the 21st best place to live in the United States; the 2nd highest ranked community in New Jersey.[26]
The area now known as Montville Township was first settled by Dutch farmers from New Amsterdam (now part of New York City) in the very early 18th century. Part of New Netherland, the town was originally called "Uyle-Kill" (the Dutch spelling of "Owl-Kill"), a name given to the creek and valley, which ran through the area. By the 1740s, the settlement had grown in size and construction of the first road was begun. The early road, now known as U.S. Route 202, connected various farms with Montville's first gristmill, sawmill and tanneries. The Dutch Reformed Church was founded in Old Boonton in 1756 and moved to Montville in the early 1800s after land was purchased here for a parsonage.[27]
During the American Revolutionary War, Montville was on a major military route from Morristown to the Hudson River. General George Washington's troops often took this route and Washington stayed in the Towaco section of what is now Montville Township in June 1780.[28] The French troops under the leadership of General Rochambeau spent four days passing through Montville Township on their way to the War's final victory at Yorktown, Virginia, as part of a group of 5,000 soldiers, 2,000 horses, 500 oxen, possibly 900 cattle, artillery, boats and followers.[29]


text: The weekly Gen Z hour at Queensbridge is a time for pupils to explore a unified curriculum of PSHE and reading. These two essential parts of school are symbiotic and students read novels that are linked to the PSHE programme of study. The novels allow pupils to connect, with empathy, to characters who embody the content that they are covering; the PSHE element results in novels that are engaging and challenging to all pupils. Pupils will learn, through these relevant texts, about health and wellbeing, relationships and the wider world. The value of books for young people is in both its academic and emotional learning opportunities and Gen Z is purposeful, engaging and empowering for our pupils.


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Chilling Video: Newly Released View Of World Trade Center On 9/11
"The whole tower; it's gone. ... Holy crap, they knocked the whole fricking thing down."
You can hear the anguish in a New York City police officer's voice as he watched from above when the World Trade Center towers started to come down on Sept. 11, 2001.
There's newly released video, taken from an NYPD helicopter, of the scene on that unforgettable day. It's "part of a cache of information from the attack handed over by city agencies to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the federal agency that investigated the collapse," the Associated Press reports, and NIST has released it following a Freedom of Information Act request.
New York's Daily News has all 16+ minutes posted here. It is, as you might imagine, graphic. Among the other ways to see some of it is this video report from The Associated Press (9:25 a.m. ET note — earlier we had a video from Reuters; it appears to have been removed from YouTube):


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Stepmoms have an unfortunate image to shake. Good old Walt wasn't kind to them and he helped stick stepmother-hood with a legacy of connotations like wicked, evil, green eyed and (step) monster. Many stepmothers feel like they're hated before they even begin. That no matter how loving and attentive they are or could ever be, they'll still labeled as a witch. Here on the Internet, multitudes of stepmother blogs can be found. Many telling angry tales about dealing with ex spouses and unruly kids. Others speaking out about their true feelings of resentment, isolation, jealousy and anger; not just towards their stepchildren, but towards everything those children represent as well. It's fascinating for a grown up child of divorce like me to read.
And yet, something strikes me. Where are the ranting stepfathers? Why aren't they taking advantage of the anonymity and platform that blogging provides? Where are all the angry men detailing the trials with ex husbands and children who aren't theirs? When I try to find them, I always come up short handed. And I wonder why that is? Are societal pressures kinder to them or are they kinder to themselves? Or could it be something else entirely?
Our culture holds men to different standards than women. Although roles are beginning to shift, men are still typically regarded as the head of the household; the breadwinner. Women are regarded as nurturer's. Perhaps the role of step parent is harder for a woman because both she and society feel she should automatically feel maternal towards her husband's children. That she should instantly want to nurture and love them. And of course that expectation is unrealistic. All relationships take time to develop and not all adults form bonds easily with children.
In this regard, maybe a stepfather doesn't worry so much when his wife's children don't warm up to him instantly. He doesn't have the preexisting expectation that they would or feel like a failure personally when they don't. Maybe he doesn't worry that everyone is looking at his relationship with them under a microscope, making judgements. Taking those emotions out of the blended family equation can indeed make it's transition and everyday life much easier.
And maybe that's just it. The psyche of a man. Less emotional. More confident. His self esteem not completely intertwined with how other's view him. Both connotation and symbolism lose their sting in the face of that. Maybe he doesn't focus so much on his feelings, thereby diminishing the sense of isolation or jealousy or resentment. Perhaps when his spouse spends time with her children he looks at it as an opportunity to pursue his own activities instead of feeling isolated and not included.
Or maybe it's something else.
What if it's not our cultural tenets about stepmothers or our gender based stereotypes governing the discrepancy? What is it has less to do with the differences between men and women and much more to do with the differences between single moms and single dads. What if the core of the issue doesn't lie with the step parent at all, but with the biological parents themselves?
One underlying theme I see from disgruntled step mothers is that although they knew their spouse had a child or children before they were married, they didn't really know what they were getting into. That they really had no sense of the sacrifice or difficulties involved with step parenting (or I would argue parenting overall). That they fell in love with their spouse alone and that they don't agree with the concept of his children and him being a 'package deal'. And I wonder why that is? As well as why we don't hear the same decree from stepdads.
Although there are far more fathers being awarded equal physical custody of their children and being made their primary custodians, traditionally women have had the upper hand on the custody front. I wonder if this issue of custody impacts how divorced fathers and divorced mothers approach their subsequent relationships. If it enables divorced fathers to meet and date women as single men as opposed to single fathers. That perhaps because of the custody arrangement, they tend to meet women who fall in love with them and live with them as if they were simply single men even though they know (logically) that they have children. Perhaps even being somewhat mislead by the extrication of his fatherly role in those initial weeks or months.
Maybe single moms date differently. Even if they don't introduce potential suitors to their children at first (as is advised), perhaps they speak more about them when courting. Almost making them present even though they are not. Making it clear to potential suitors that their children are an integral part of themselves, not just a person who they are bound to care for. Ensuring that the ones they get into relationships with are clear that there in fact is a 'package' involved.
And looking at the next stage a relationship; perhaps when the children are introduced to divorced parent's new loves, moms more often have the advantage of seeing their new mates interacting with their children a majority of the time. Allowing for the relationship to encounter and resolve many issues prior to any commitment to marriage. I've seen single mothers dissolve relationships based simply on the issue of interaction with their children. I wonder how commonly this happens with single fathers. How high of a priority is the relationship between their children and potential spouse when weighed beside their own relationship?
These are all interesting questions. There is a difference; that part is undeniable. The question is, what underlies that difference? Why does it seem that stepmothers as a whole are so discontent in comparison? Could it be that the stepfathers of the world are simply not as vocal in this medium? Perhaps their close friends or family would say they feel exactly the same. It's hard to say for certain. Societal strains, gender bias, gender differences all play their roles. But I still ask this question: Who let stepdads off the hook? Or is it that they aren't let off the hook at all; but held to a different standard instead.