text:
This conference started in the evening when everyone arrived with a reception at the hotel. This was a great chance for folks to get acquainted in a casual setting before the sessions began the next day. I got a chance to meet some people the very first day (and re-connect with some I'd met previously). This set the tone for the rest of the conference; friendly faces, intelligent conversations, and GREAT food :).
The next morning, Dr. Juan Gilbert kicked everything off with a great welcome message. Not only is he one of the people who started NSBC and helped organize the conference, he brought a CONGREGATION of University of Florida current and future CS PhD students. A one group inspiration (seeing as I'm willing to bet for any given institution, you won't see that many African American CS PhDs) that contributed to the overall message of the convention.
The keynote was given by Nancy Douyon, Googler and all around bad-ass. She gave an engaging keynote on building your personal brand and putting the best you forward. Now, this is a common topic among conferences targeted at minorities. However, Nancy not only stressed the importance of personal brand and online presence, she provided unique (and sound) advice for managing your brand. She made suggestions such as using Google Alerts to manage your search results, publicly tweeting what you want others to find, keeping your LinkedIn up to date, and using a website or portfolio to tell your story.
She made some great points, including but not limited to the following:
- Emotions affect productivity, so good to be aware of your feelings and things that could affect your emotions
- Organize things you have to do (lots of software available to do it); the Priority Satisfaction Model (depicted right) can help with organizing.
- Take action on value prioritization by setting P.O.W.E.R. Goals (Purpose-driven, Outlined, Written-down, End-date, Results-oriented)
- Always fight for your priorities - and they will change over time!
- Celebrate your successes!
At this point, we all broke up into our sessions. The first future faculty session was focused on finding the right institution for you. I was particularly interested in this session; my biggest struggle as I'm getting closer to finishing has been decided where I want to go when I graduate. The panel consisted of three heavy hitters in the CS community: Dr. Elva Jones (Winston-Salem State), Dr. Gloria Washington (Howard University), and Dr. Cheryl Seals (Auburn University). We were also fortunate enough to have other faculty in the audience that could chime in with additional advice (Dr. Gilbert and Dr. Shaundra Daily to name a couple). As usual, everyone had a different path to how they got where they are today, so it was definitely great to hear different perspectives. I won't go into too much detail on this here, perhaps later in a blog post on what I've learned from the various future faculty workshops I've attended :).
The last session of the day was for everyone again, and focused on building professional networks. As I stated in my previous blog post, there was a HUGE emphasis on networking at this conference. And not just networking inside your peer groups, but also networking outside you peer groups (and sometimes comfort zones). This session was a panel; NSBC had a lot of panels, which I LOVE. The panel consisted of Dr. Gilbert, Nancy Douyon, and Dr. Shawn Gittens and was moderated by Joe Johnson himself (kinda cool!). I didn't get to catch the beginning of the panel, but I did catch the end of it. Here are a few points that stood out to me from this panel (some are direct quotes and some are my attempts at paraphrasing panel responses):
Q: What advice do you have for dealing with more difficult personalities in CS or situations where you may truly be the only one?
A (Dr. Gilbert): "Understand ignorance is alive and well and put it in its place. Take the opportunity to show them who you are and what you're capable of."
A (Nancy): Find some way to connect with them; try to appreciate who they are and help them appreciate who you are.
Q: How do you blend in in an environment where you stand out?
A (Dr. Gilbert): For him, it turned out to be the best thing that he didn't have other African Americans around. He hung out with who he was around and learned all he could about and from them. As a result, he is where he is now. He also learned how much harder it was for other students (i.e. international students) to get their degree. He recommended we embed ourselves with them and learn their ways; you're going to deal with people like that no matter what. It might not seem like it at the time, but it's an opportunity.
A (Dr. Gittens): "Don't be afraid to make friends outside your department if needed."
Q: How do you be consistent when building relationships while being resilient in real life situations?
A (Nancy): Some networks are seasonal; not all networks are meant to grow with you. Be aware of the relationships and if they're helping or hurting; the structure might have to change.
A (Dr. Gittens): You don't have to talk to everyone in your network everyday; some might be frequent while others are only every once in a while.
Finally, to close the day, we took a group picture (see pic in previous post)! It's pretty hard to see everyone in the picture, but just the sight of so much techy melanin is beyond beautiful! And of course, thanks to my signature red hair, it's not too hard to find me :)
Stay tuned for the last installation of my 3-part post on NSBC 2016!


text:
About Us
NorthStarPlastics & Manufacturing is a small family owned business. We strive to produce the best products for your business or personal use. We feature standard and custom dog boxes, kennels, kennel runs, trailers, crates, holding units, whelping boxes, nebulizer units, and many other items for purchase or repair. Our products are plastic welded with HDPE plastic. This process of manufacturing produces strength and functional life long durabilty. Our team's vision to the future continues to enhance our product line. Our newest addition to our product line is our "GRATE DOG CRATE". This crate was designed with the angles to be the STRONGEST crate on the market. The added bonus features that come standard with this box are the removable grated flooring and drip trays under the flooring. This provides easy cleaning as well as keeping your pet free from outdoor weather elements.
"If you are in the market for a durable, light weight and easy to clean dog box, I encourage you to consider NSP & M and their comprehensive line of dog boxes and transport units; you will not be dissatisfied." — Dave Northamer
Contact UsEmail us
Phone: (888) 399-3771
NorthStar Plastics, a Division of Lakeside Products
PO Box 53
Polk City, IA 50226

subset: commoncrawl


text:
» Recent Climate Strategy Publications
Climate Strategy publishes and contributes to various reports and white papers each year. The principal research papers are launched with public events and have a set of supporting materials produced alongside the reports for media communications and to assist in their dissemination. In several cases, there are also video presentations available for review.
Click on the icons in order to access the reports and their supporting materials:
Sustainable Real Estate Investment, Implementing the Paris Climate Agreement: An Action Framework.
Published in February 2016, this framework seeks to assist real estate investment stakeholders in identifying key drivers and how to overcome those barriers that prevent the integration ESG and climate change related risks into their decision making processes.
G20 Energy Efficiency Finance Task Group (EEFTG) Activity Report 2015: Annex to the Report to G20 on the G20 Energy Efficiency Action Plan containing Full Technical Analysis and Case Studies supporting voluntary Energy Efficiency Investment Principles for G20 participating countries
Published in October 2015, this report summarizes the EEFTG 2015 technical engagement activities organized around key technical themes which emerged to form EEFTGs voluntary Energy Efficiency Investment Principles of G20 participating countries as well as relevant case studies.
Energy Efficiency Financial Institutions Group 2015 Report, Energy Efficiency the first fuel for the EU Economy: How to drive new finance for energy efficiency investments
Published in February 2015, this report the second from the Energy Efficiency Financial Institutions Group (EEFIG) identifies the critical success factors, policies, market instruments and financing solutions to increase energy efficiency investments in Europe in the buildings, industry and SME sectors.
GTR 2014 Report, National Strategy for Buildings Renovation: Key Steps to Transform Spains Buildings Sector
Published in December 2013: This report the third collaborative work from the Rehabilitation Working Group (GTR El Grupo de Trabajo sobre Rehabilitación) - deepens the scope of its previous Road Map and Long-term Plan to ensure that the transformation of Spains built environment becomes an economic reality.
GTRs 2012 Report, A National Perspective on Spains Building Sector
Published in November 2012: This report the second collaborative work from the Rehabilitation Working Group (GTR El Grupo de Trabajo sobre Rehabilitación) - presents two significant improvements: GTRs 2012 economic model introduces over eighty new parameters, and incorporates the new legislative guidelines from the European Unions new Energy Efficiency Directive.
A National Perspective on Spain's Building Sector
Published in November 2011: This report is a collaborative work which provides the background, structure, methodology, analysis and an action plan for Spain to launch and support a New Housing Sector creating jobs and saving energy and CO2 emissions.
Challenges and Funding Opportunities for the Energy Efficient Renovation of Spains Residential Building Stock
Published on February 2012: This report examines the international tools and policies designed to fund energy retrofit projects in the residential sector. It also aims to examine the possible ways to adopt similar policies that can boost the Spanish housing stock retrofit sector.
Financing Mechanisms for Europes Buildings Renovation Assessment and Structuring Recommendations for Funding European 2020 Retrofit Targets
Published in September 2011: This report states that appropriate national policy frameworks remain the most significant drivers of optimal national energy efficiency and refurbishment outcomes. However there is also a clear need to create financing mechanisms and support programmes which have the capacity to stimulate investments in the order of Euro 100 billion per annum into European buildings in aggregate from public and private sources (consistent with individual Member State target financing levels of 0.5-0.8% of GDP).
changes everything


text:
The College GameDay crew is messin' around in Seattle before today's Oregon-Washington kickoff. Let's start the fun.
As always, this pics are growers, not showers. Click expand to see the full monty.
Oregon is the No. 2 team in the country
Pac-12 Officials, still getting Oregoned On
These Huskies fans are obsessed with human waste
If you want to be elite, you gotta use Chrome
That's pretty shady
Seriously Washington, what gives?
Not even an internship?
♫Do you remember the time...♫


text:
Remote island,
storms a vyin'
maybe that's why no one's flyin'
Kids don't like this picture,
cuz there's no eye spyin'
Island looking like a playful bed,
woke up next to each other,
now y'all playing tunes from the Grateful Dead.
Clouds overhead
increasing, like her moan over the bed.
Wait, wait, before you give yourself the cred,
read her diary, she's been faking it and it's all gone to your head.
Look for the signs,
like in these dark times,
we all go through a struggle,
but these clouds have nothing on Bynes and Leann Rimes.
Just fake it till you make it, then one day you'll realize it all rhymes.


text:
Greek Salad with Feta
This is my go-to Greek Salad with Feta recipe. Perfect in the summer when garden tomatoes are plentiful or just substitute grape or cherry tomatoes the rest of the year!
Greek Salad with Feta
I combed the blog looking for this Greek Salad with Feta recipe. I was certain I'd posted this old favorite. Three summers of blogging and garden tomatoes and many many Greek salads, but I soon realized I had not yet posted this simple veggie packed salad and vinaigrette. My friend, Linda, shared this at a teacher's luncheon I chaired over a decade ago. I've tweaked it though the years, adding peppers, tomatoes, and cukes.
When I make my Chicken Feta Kabobs, I buy the best French Feta from Whole Foods and save half of it for this salad. This cheese is nothing like the pre-crumbled version you find in those plastic containers. This feta is packed in water, and it's mild, creamy with just a slight tang. Add a slice of classic baklava and you'll have a Greek feast!
A Favorite Summer Salad
Yeah, yeah, French feta may not make this an authentic Greek salad, but this recipe is easy, light and perfect for the dog days of summer, especially if you have a garden full of ripe, juicy tomatoes. I could eat this every single day!
It's a summer favorite at our house when August and the peak of tomato season arrives. My friend, Linda, who is of Lebanese descent, shared this family recipe with me years ago. I've tweaked it a bit by adding our favorite veggies, but the simple dressing is all hers!Print
Love this recipe? Please consider rating it in the comments below. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
Greek Salad with Feta
A healthy, tasty Greek salad packed with vegetables and feta cheese!
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Greek
- Half a head of iceberg lettuce, chopped in cubes (may use full head if needed)
- 1–2 ripe garden tomatoes, chopped with seeds removed if desired
- 1/2 English cucumber, cubed
- 14 ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and cut in halves
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup Feta cheese, cubed (I prefer a French Feta)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 4 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Whisk together vinegar, lemon juice, salt, sugar, and pepper. Drizzle in olive oil, whisking to emulsify. Set aside.
- Layer lettuce on bottom of serving bowl. Arrange vegetables and cheese over lettuce. Toss with dressing immediately before serving.
Skinny Tip
I'm offering a series of Skinny Tips. How I keep slim is one of my most frequent inquiries. I'll feature tips on some of my upcoming blog posts.
Tip #26: Eat low glycemic foods. These are items that don't create big spikes in your blood sugar and include meats, eggs, cheese as well as some legumes, grains, fruits and vegetables. My explanation is very simplistic, so please do your own research to get a full understanding of the concept.


text:
Friday, February 13, 2015
Sweden: Melodifestivalen, semi 2
Unfortunately the flood of new votes come from the new app that allows people to give a maximum of five votes for free to each song - but only during the duration of the song. The flaws of this idea has turned into a hot potato and a heated debate that almost seems to eclipse the contest itself at times.
If the first three songs do badly also this week, you can be sure there will be a medial outcry beyond reason that could possibly even start damaging the Melodifestivalen trademark. Linus Svenning, this year's number one, could have good reasons to start sweating over the results already.
I took a listen to the short clips published on the Melodifestivalen site after the first stage rehearsals and these are my first impressions.
01. Linus Svenning / Forever Starts Today
Last year he made it all the way to the big final - now Linus had a change of language and style, and even though I like the song I'm not convinced this is what his fans would expect him to do. The song is good but is Linus the right person to perform it? If it puzzles his audience - will they forget to use the app?
02. Emelie Irewald / Där och då med dig
The typical female debutant with a sentimental and sensitive ballad that is not bad but would probably fit better in a musical than here. Emelie has clearly listened to (and been influenced by) Swedish Queen of musicals Helen Sjöholm but is unlikely to hit home with the voters.
03. Samir & Viktor / Groupie
The reality tv celeb and the fashion blogger and a song that makes Dolly Style's "Hello hi" feel like an epic masterpiece in comparison. This is where I come out as a tired, grumpy, humourless old grandpa and admit to really disliking this. I promise to grumble when this one makes it straight to the final.
04. Neverstore / If I Was God For A Day
Pleasant radio rock with no sharp edges, makes me think of Beagle's "The Things That We Say" - a good single back in 1992. This one isn't as good but possibly enough to trigger that large section of the audience longing for rock bands.
05. Marie Bergman & Sanne Salomonsen / Nonetheless
Quality singing and a song clearly aiming for a more adult audience. Could have been a contender had there been only televoting but my guess is that the younger app voting generation won't warm to it.
06. Magnus Carlsson / Möt mig i Gamla stan
A modern take on the classic schlager and I really like it. In my dream scenario, Sweden will have missed Magnus Carlsson as much as I have and vote heavily for this hit in the making. It's been a while since he had a hit single and he does deserve one.
07. Mariette / Don't Stop Believing
Mariette has a great voice and an intriguing presence, nailing the cameras with her eyes. The song is suggestive, possibly suffering from the verses being more interesting than the chorus. If it develops well during its three minutes, this could be a strong contender too.
So, how does one conclude? I have a feeling the songs I like the most are not necessarily the ones that will get the audience going and vice versa. And who really uses the app? Are quality songs doomed to lose out against more gimmicky ones?
Tobson predicts:
Final: Magnus Carlsson and Samir & Viktor
Andra Chansen: Mariette and Linus Svenning
Fifth: Neverstore
Out: Marie & Sanne and Emelie Irewald
(Although personally, I'd send Magnus and Mariette to the final, Marie & Sanne to Andra Chansen and Samir & Viktor any place where I wouldn't have to hear of them again.)
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Setterfield: A question has been asked about the behaviour of the energy E of emitted photons of wavelength W and frequency f during their transit across space. The key formulae involved are E = hf = hc/W. The following discussion concentrates on the behaviour of individual terms in these equations.
If c (the speed of light) does indeed vary, inevitably some atomic constants must change, but which? Our theories should be governed by the observational evidence. This evidence has been supplied by 20th century physics and astronomy. One key observation that directs the discussion was noted by R. T. Birge in Nature 134:771, 1934. At that time c was measured as declining, but there were no changes noted in the wavelengths of light in apparatus that should detect it. Birge commented: "If the value of c is actually changing with time, but the value of [wavelength] in terms of the standard metre shows no corresponding change, then it necessarily follows that the value of every atomic frequencyÉmust be changing." This follows since light speed, c, equals frequency, f, multiplied by wavelength W. That is to say c = fW. If wavelengths W are unchanged in this process, then frequencies f must be proportional to c.
Since atomic frequencies govern the rate at which atomic clocks tick, this result effectively means that atomic clocks tick in time with c. By contrast, orbital clocks tick at a constant rate. J. Kovalevsky noted the logical consequence of this situation in Metrologia Vol. 1, No. 4, 1965. He stated that if the two clock rates were different "then Planck's constant as well as atomic frequencies would drift." The observational evidence suggests that these two clocks do indeed run at different rates, and that Planck's constant is also changing. The evidence concerning clock rates comes from the work of T. C. Van Flandern, then of the US Naval Observatory in Washington. He had examined lunar and planetary orbital periods and compared them with atomic clocks data for the period 1955-1981. Assessing the data in 1984, he noted the enigma in Precision Measurements and Fundamental Constants II, NBS Special Publication 617, pp. 625-627. In that National Bureau of Standards publication, Van Flandern stated "the number of atomic seconds in a dynamical interval is becoming fewer. Presumably, if the result has any generality to it, this means that atomic phenomena are slowing down with respect to dynamical phenomena."
To back up this proposition, Planck's constant, h, has been measured as increasing throughout 20th century. In all, there are 45 determinations by 8 methods. When the data were presented to a scientific journal, one Reviewer who favoured constant quantities noted, "Instrumental resolution may in part explain the trend in the figures, but I admit that such an explanation does not appear to be quantitatively adequate." Additional data came from experiments by Bahcall and Salpeter, Baum and Florentin-Nielsen, as well as Solheim et al. They have each proved that the quantity 'hc' or Planck's constant multiplied by light-speed is in fact a constant astronomically. There is only one conclusion that can be drawn that is in accord with all these data. Since c has been measured as decreasing, and h has been measured as increasing during the same period, and hc is in fact constant, then h must vary precisely as 1/c at all times. This result also agrees with the conclusions reached by Birge and Kovalevsky.
From this observational evidence, it follows in the original equation E = hf = hc/W, that since f is proportional to c, and h is proportional to 1/c, then photon energies in transit are unchanged from the moment of emission. This also follows in the second half of the equation since hc is invariant, and W is also unchanged according to observation. Thus, if each photon is considered to be made up of a wave-train, the number of waves in that wave-train remains unchanged during transit, as does the wavelength. However, since the wave-train is travelling more slowly as c drops, the number of wave-crests passing a given point per unit time is fewer, proportional to c. Since the frequency of a wave is also defined as the number of crests passing a given point, this means that frequency is also proportional to c with no changes in the wave structure of the photon at all. Furthermore, the photon energy is unchanged in transit.
Setterfield: It is incorrect to say that the values of the fundamental constants vary with LOCATION in the cosmos. The cDK proposition maintains that at any INSTANT OF TIME, right throughout the whole cosmos, the value of any given atomic constant including light-speed, c, will be the same. There is thus no variation in the atomic constants with LOCATION in the universe. As a consequence there can be no preferred frame of reference. What we DO have is a variation of the atomic constants over TIME throughout the cosmos, but not LOCATION.
Because we look back in TIME as we probe deeper into space, we are seeing light emitted at progressively earlier epochs. The progressively increasing redshift of that light, as we look back in TIME, bears information on the value of some atomic constants and c in a way discussed in the forthcoming redshift paper. So Yes! there is a whole suite of data that can be used to back up this contention. I trust that clarifies the issue for you somewhat.
Setterfield: Thank you for your note. Yes, your suggestion of a change in gravitational constant does potentially answer some of the data that we are getting from outer space and earth as well. However, all told, there are five anomalies which require explanation:
As far as I am aware, there is only one parameter which links all five anomalies, and that is an increase in the strength of the Zero Point Energy with time. The increase in the ZPE with time accounts for observed anomalies with mass and gravitation in a way which varying gravitation itself does not – at least not that I have seen formulated in any theory. Milgrom has proposed a mechanism to account for the flat rotation curves of galaxies by changing gravitational acceleration in a certain way. This overcomes the problem of missing mass in a very helpful manner. However, the discrepant phenomena which induced Milgrom's solution has a different solution in ZPE theory, and one which is just as viable. You might be interested in Zero Point Energy and Relativity.
In summary, then, while variation in G may explain some phenomena, such as the mass (#3) and time (#4), this leaves the others unexplained still. Thank you for pointing out the behavior of G as a dimensionless ratio of volumetric accelerations. I find this a helpful suggestion which I will be keeping in mind.
Setterfield: The question relating to the fine tuning of the universe is not really relevent as far as the Zero Point Energy and the speed of light is concerned. What we have is a set of mutually cancelling constants whose product or ratio remains fixed no matter what the ZPE does in the universe, and no matter how the speed of light behaves. Thus the product of Planck's constant, h, and the speed of light, c, remain a fixed quantity no matter how the ZPE behaves. That is, hc is invariant. In a similar way, since atomic masses, m, are proportional to 1/c2, the product mc2 will always be a constant, and so energy will be conserved.
In the specific case of E = hc/lamda = hf, then we have planck's constant, h, proportional to ZPE strength, c inversely proportional to ZPE strength, and frequencies, f, inversely proportional to ZPE strength. Therefore, hf is a constant; hc is a constant, and wavelengths, lamda, remain unchanged as the ZPE varies. One additional point needs mentioning here. Wavelengths in transit through space will remaion constant, but emitted wavelengths from atomic transitions were longer when the ZPE was lower because the ZPE strength determines the energy of atomic orbits. It is for this reason that we get the redshift of light from distant galaxies. Therefore, the idea of the "fine tuning of the constants" turns out to be something of a misunderstanding of what is happening.
Setterfield: Mass, in terms of what we can see in the world, is related to the density or amount of material in a given volume. When we are dealing with atoms and subatomic particles, we clearly need a different definition. So "mass" at that level refers to the amount of deviation any subatomic particle makes as it goes through an electric and magnetic field. The greater the mass, the less the deviation. This is done using a mass spectrometer. In chemical reactions, mass is measured by the amount of energy given off divided by the speed of light, in accord with E= mc2.
Planck's constant, h, in quantum physics is usually considered to be a measure of the uncertainty in position or momentum of a sub-atomic particle. In Planck's paper of 1911, he demonstrated that h was a measure of the strength of the Zero Point Energy. Because quantum uncertainty is the result of the jittering of subatomic particles by the waves of the Zero Point Energy (ZPE), then it can be seen that the two concepts are related.
An alternate definition of Planck's constant came from the Einstein's work of 1905, where he took Planck's original concept of 1901 and applied it to light. This gave rise to the definition that Planck's constant was the link between the energy, E, of a photon or wave of light and its frequency, f, (or number of waves passing per second). The formula was that photon energy E = hf. Since the frequency of light, f, is also equal to the speed of light, c, divided by its wavelength, W, then the energy equation can also be written as E = hc/W.
As a result of these various definitions there are at least 5 ways of measuring Planck's constant. One of them is by using this formula for energy of a light wave. An electrical circuit is set up with an LED light of known frequency or wavelength as part of the circuit. The voltage of the circuit is then increased from zero to the point when the LED first lights up. At that point the voltage, V, is a measure of the energy, E, being supplied to the LED as E = eV where e is the charge on the electrons. The equation then becomes eV =hf or, alternately eV = hc/W. Since the electric charge e is known, voltage, V, is measured, and frequency, f, is known, then Planck's constant, h, can be determined. This can be done with LEDs of different colors or frequencies to get the same result.
I trust that this gives you the information that you need.


text:
The Soul Shine ups the ante in the Canadian Hemp Guitars guitar line nicely and has quickly become our biggest seller. While the construction, design and electronics are standard across the line, that's where it ends. The guitar features a stock Canadian Hemp Guitars neck of maple, with an optional maple or rosewood fingerboard. The patented body design brings the look together with a wide range of customer selectable colours and finishes.
The guitar also provides an entry to many custom hardware and electronics including a selection of base model pickups and near limitless additional options for pickups, bridges and onboard effects including boutique single coil or humbucker, undersaddle piezos, bigsby tremelos and our patented onboard overdrive switch and other options. When it comes to a grab-and-go guitar, the Soul Shine puts it all together in a light-weight, versatile, beautifully finished instrument.


text:
Doncaster motorists are being urged to reduce their speed after a survey revealed many are still breaking the speed limit near schools.
The survey of 1,000 parents with young children revealed 60 per cent had witnessed speeding outside their children's school. Road safety charity Brake and Churchill Insurance, who conducted the survey, are now calling on drivers to drop their speed to 20mph near schools.
Julie Townsend, deputy chief executive of Brake, said: "We're calling on drivers to take the lead in making roads safer for children – by going 20mph or less and taking more care in communities."
She urged drivers to find out more about the charity's Beep Beep! scheme, which raises awareness about road safety issues.
Steve Barrett, head of Churchill Insurance, said: "Too many children die or are seriously injured on our roads each day.
"Beep Beep! is a great way of starting to educate young children on road safety, as well as raising awareness among drivers, including parents and grandparents, of the need to drive with extreme care when young children are about."
A 20mph zone was introduced on the Windhill Estate, Mexborough, several years ago after schoolboy Kyle McDerott was killed in a hit-and-run incident.
This followed a campaign led by Kyle's grandmother Catherine, which was supported by MP Caroline Flint.


text:
A motorcyclist is in hospital after a collision involving a car on a roundabout in Wetherby.
The crash happened at around 6.30pm on Monday, on the roundabout at the junction of Boston Road and Leeds Road.
It involved a blue Ford Fiesta car and black Kawasaki motorcycle.
The motorcycle rider, a 45-year-old man, suffered serious but not life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital.
Police today (Wednesday) said he remains in a stable condition at Leeds General Infirmary.
But officers are appealing to witnesses to the collision on Monday to come forward with information.
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, quoting crime reference number 13170315667.


text:
- Description
ENPROCAL REPAIR 17.5gThis is a powdered, flavour-neutral medical food designed to assist the process of wound healing. Enprocal Repair is based on Enprocal, the formulated food supplement, but with added L-arginine, an amino acid associated with improved rates of wound healing. Enprocal Repair is also high in protein, energy, calcium, fibre and most key micronutrients as overall enhanced nutritional intake is vital for successful wound healing. For example, a single serve of Enprocal Repair (powder only) delivers around 7g protein and 300kJ energy together with the following RDIs of micronutrients; Vitamins C -29%, B12-50%, B2-17%, D-15%, calcium-25% and zinc-12%. When used in milk, as per pack recommendations, the numbers are even higher. Enprocal Repair is a medical food and should only be used after consultation with a health professional. Enprocal Repair comes in a box of 15 x 17.5 single serve sachets.
- Specification
Size 17.5g Profile (PKTx15)
- Usage Chart
- PDF downloads
- Ask a question
- Reviews


text:
Druk oponderstaande knop om mij te e-mailen.
Rien qu'une pensée
(pas une idée)
comme une pétale
tombée dans la boue
Manon a oublié ce qu'elle a dit
pour une touche sûr sur le piano, elle a fait du taiji
noir et blanc uni, doux et fortement
De opening
een vermoeden van ... die een hoge noot verlicht,
de plooien vallen, de welvingen maken het gedicht
Dans le vide et la joie
Pas seulement gauche, pas seulement droit,
Pour réunir, il faut diversifier
Interne et externe vont de paire
De même pour sentir et faire
… la complémentarité est variée
Comme la pratique est calme et plein de joie
Même l'équilibre évolue, nous avons le choix.
Rien n'est fixe même ce qui est changé
Une forme est source et fin d'expressions
La séparation et l'union, le vide et le changement,
La participation du petit dans le grand
Alternant l'intention et le sentiment
L'enchainement est libre et l'agression résorbée.
De wilgen waaien
als fluisteren in 't struweel
tijd vermaledijd.
Taiji, economics,
science and ignorance
Le DAO commence
avec : ceux qui savent ne parlent pas, ceux qui parlent ne savent pas.
Nan dit toujours : Le Chinois dit … et puis une phrase plein d'images
ouvert à l'interprétation. Dès lors quelques poèmes :
Le sens d'un rond
Taiji peut être mesuré avec modération.
Taiji peut être étudié sans beaucoup de fond.
Mais si vous vous laisser aller,
viennent les sensations,
les chants du printemps, les champs du temps rond,
et son propre ronron.
Er varen eens
Taiji kan je meten, Taiji kan je weten.
Laat je het varen, wat een ervaren.
Quite an
Taiji can be a science, you want to know.
It can be a competition, a first place
to go.
When you let go, and feel the
and experience
The expo on the work of Francis Alys in
Wiels was very impressive: The artist running to enter the eye of the
hurricane, the artist painting a green line in Jerusalem, Israel/Palestine, and
the project to move a mountain "When faith moves a mountain", as shown also in
the 15 min documentary : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4eNuqLnFaYA
Francis Alys persuaded the students and
staff of a school to spend together a whole day. They went to a dune and started
at the bottom of that "mountain". Each pulled a bit of sand in front of him and
stepped forward. At the end of the day, they were all at the other side of the
dune that had shifted 10 cm. A great effort, with a result which is not visible
in the landscape and which will be annihilated by the wind. Nevertheless the
whole team was proud of the work, their work! Something never to forget,
something to remember and to tell about.
The move of the mountain was their (e-)motion.
quadrant of effort/benefit
Shifting the mountain is an activity of maximal
effort for minimal effect. We do not often do this, or promote the idea of it. The
other quadrants are more popular:
Maximum gain for minimum effort:
the homo economibus way of life (1)
Maximum gain for maximum
effort: top athletes live this way (1)
Minimal gain with minimal
effort: this could be lazy persons or smart people?
(1) May come together with the production of waste and pollution and
anomalies such as dope
Minimal gain with maximal effort as with the mountain could be a
kind of artistic way of living.
Taiji fit (at least) with a kind of quantitative approach such as: The more
effort/ we practice, the better?
Taiji is not about effort only, it is
effort AND relaxing.
Go with the flow, Let it be,
effortless relaxing is neither the subject of Taiji
Although you have always to
relax, to release … it is relaxing within a form
Taiji gives an opportunity to
let work everything: the body (not only muscles but also articulations) and the
Taiji gives the opportunity to
relax all.
So it is about
effort with relaxing without
relaxing within effort without
losing the flow of the force
you may continue a while this
iterative recursive way …
Taiji is also about balance. Similar as the
equilibrist that uses a long stick to keep his balance Taiji offers the
opportunity to do ample movements of all parts of the body moving differently
but united, while the mind is empty, open, calm and alert. All those movements
and efforts are done in a relaxed way with relaxed shoulders, elbows, fingers,
waist, knees, ankles, also the mind …
Taiji is also about following the Force …
go for the feeling … not the doing
If you only increase the effort, no gain,
no better balance. Some people get even benefit of Taiji without doing Taiji. At
my work everybody knows that on Wednesday at 17h30 Wim has to go to the Taiji
training. They know: he goes or he has a bad temper during the next week.
(Although this has not been tested the last two years). So everybody has
benefit of my Taiji session, but they did not do Taiji themselves. Transcendental
Meditation claims something similar. If 1% of the world population does TM
(perhaps at the highest level where you can "hop" (lift in the air while
sitting in meditation)) the world would be in peace, no war anymore.
So Taiji does not fit a quantitative "more
effort the better" principle. Practicing is "already the benefit". Especially
when you relax within effort to come to balance. There does not exist a measure
to measure the degree of balance, not for Taiji, not for something else. Enjoy
your practice, if you relax within the effort, the mountain may come to you.
So Taiji is not quantitative, can we at
least enhance the quality of life? The benefit of Taiji which is most often
proclaimed: "health"
It is clear that there was a
period wherein Taiji became "open to all people to get weak people more strong
and vital". The practice of Taiji by all Chinese intended to enforce the
Chinese nation against all invasion like influences of European colonies and
Japan. The Yang family style that was the first style to be opened to the
public was adapted just for this aim. Today all family styles and standard
styles are widely open to the public (and those that are not, we do not know
of). And all are aiming longevity and health. I have read from the founder of
Sun style that he aimed a healthy live (so not longevity), he himself announced
that his forces were finished at a certain time and he died two weeks later
Taiji is not about "cure" it
may be that you get exercises Taiji or qi gong as a treatment from a doctor but
for a Taiji practitioner it seems an exception to improve health in case of
One of my lessons of life came
from running, not Taiji. What you can do as a runner (the marathon, the 20 km
of Brussels and now in my case only slowly running in a beautiful forest) is a
gift not a performance. In case your body is able to "just do it", you may
consider this as a gift. You may choose to take care of the gift by training to
be able to run x km in y time. But first of all it is a gift, afterwards it is
a performance of what you do with it.
Taiji does not fit either the optimization
of the quality of life. You get your body and mind as it is, just like a gift.
Taiji is a mean to take care of it. When care has been given, good shape and
balance with nature remain as long as possible. You do not speak in terms of gain
and optimization related to a gift.
Every practitioner will have his own
practice, his own sensations and experience. They will talk about other
benefits of Taiji besides enjoying the practice.
In some cases what is said as a
benefit (I become calm, good for health) says more about the person saying it
than on their practice of Taiji.
The more one speaks about one
benefit, the less the diversity of possible benefits.
Some practitioners do not talk
about benefits, maybe because they consider it as strictly personal.
Just alike the trees in the
Park of Tervuren. They are all different although they respect all nature: they
are rooted, they grow towards heaven and they exchange with the environment.
But no tree is the same as another tree.
There is agreement that Taiji practice has
the opportunity when "well done" to contribute to health, "martial" (in the
sense aggression will be transformed in the void) at least a confident
attitude, balance with nature, balance with others, balance within yourself
including body and mind. We may compare with the seven elements that were
identified as "good life" in the book "How much is enough" of the Robert and
Edward Skidelsky and argue that practice of Taiji creates an opportunity to contribute
Harmony with nature
And indirectly to Friends
So we enjoy practicing Taiji, we practice
regularly, daily …, a lot or a few, depending on our condition, our body, our
mind, our activities and free time… we do it for the sake of doing it, to care
about the gift of ourselves and the world … with an empty mind … to come and
maintain balance … and having a "good life", which is not the same as a
fantastic life or the best life.
Nan dit: Taiji pour le
plaisir. Taiji demande du travail. Taiji est pour soigner son corps (et esprit
bien entendu). Vous avez bien travaillé. Pierre-Eli dit : « On a bien
bossé ».


text:
KLAW's 'Your Town' Visits The Chisholm Trail Heritage Center in Duncan OK [VIDEO]
This week on 'Your Town' we visited the friendly town of Duncan, OK – home to more than 20,000 citizens. Beside the warm welcoming we received from everyone when we drove to this town, we also discovered a new favorite attraction, thanks for your votes, the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center. Check out what we thought was the coolest part of the heritage center.
Besides the great old Western movies and cutting edge technology exhibitions we were introduced to, the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center has one of the rarest art collections.
Watch the Chisholm Heritage Center
Visiting the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center was a treat – make sure you take your children out there this Memorial Day weekend and enjoy all the cool stuff the center has to offer.
Next week on 'Your Town' we are spotlighting Elgin! Tell us what we should check out in Elgin.


text:
Brackenbury Square on Goldhawk Road Completes
The Hunters designed collection of apartments replaces a petrol station and is adjacent to historic homes within a conservation area. With easy access to Central London, Westfield and Shepherds Bush Market the homes include both premier private apartments and housing association rented homes.
Set around a private courtyard most apartments have access to a balcony, terrace or garden. A number of community engagement briefings were held to establish a balance between redevelopment and fitting in, the solution is a stepped up façade reflecting adjacent housing proportions and materials – but a contemporary rather than a replicated design.
Designed by Hunters for Notting Hill Housing
56 Mixed tenure residential units
Conservation area restrictions
Façade chosen to maximise daylight
Contemporary landscaped courtyard


text:
Tonight on The Nondescript Atheist, we have a very special guest. She is the only guest to make a three time appearance on my show. Please welcome my daughter, Ava.
Join us each Thursday 6pm – 7pm Eastern streamed live athttp://radiofairfax.com and podcast at http://trustreason.com
If you have something to say, call in at 703-560-8255
Podcast: Play in new window | Download


text:
African-Native American Genealogy Forum
Re: Muskogee Phoenix Freedmen Article
In Response To: Re: Muskogee Phoenix Freedmen Article ()
The article shows up if you go to the Muskogee Phoenix opinion link. However, here is the article I submitted prior to editing by the newspaper.
"Not Time For Cherokee Freedmen to Leave Their Nation"
Smith mentions the "Cherokee Freedmen Nation of Oklahoma " . I know of no such group ; Cherokee Freedmen plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the BIA are not associated with such group.
Smith alleges the Cherokee Freedmen lawsuit has no basis because the Curtis Act nullified the 1866 treaty which is the basis of Freedmen citizenship rights. The Act abolished tribal courts ; but Cherokee government continued under the Act of April 26, 1906 which authorized US Presidents to appoint Chiefs. Furthermore, Cherokee nation attorneys cite the 1866 treaty in Cherokee Nation Vs Norton which deals with adopted Delawares .
Smith implies that Freedmen lost citizenship in 1901. However The Dawes "Final Rolls" approved by Congress included a Cherokee Freedmen roll . The rights of Cherokee Freedmen were the same as other citizens .. Cherokee Freedmen received allotments and 1961 per capita payments. Title 25 Sec 991 authorized these payments for Cherokee citizens on the "Final rolls".
Smith ignores that Cherokee Freedmen lost tribal membership without due process or input in 1983 despite the fact that they are Cherokee citizens based on the 1975 Constitution (which limits tribal membership to Dawes enrollees or their descendants) . No other citizens, including adopted Delaware and Shawnee who practice their customs and speak their own languages have been treated so untraditionally.
Smith alleges that Freedmen have been "incorporated into African American society"; as a non-Freedmen, he only speculates. He ignores the emotional harm the Freedmen have endured through disenrollment.
Smith implies that Cherokee Freedmen number hundreds of thousands. The 1880 Cherokee census indicated "coloreds" were 10% of the tribe, about the same percentage as Dawes enrolled Freedmen in 1907. If current Cherokee membership is 230,000, Cherokee Freedmen potentially number 23,000 . The most instrumental individual in opening services to Cherokees of less than Ľ blood was Chief Swimmer who revoked Freedmen membership cards . No Cherokee officials call for limiting services to those of Ľ blood or greater . If Cherokee officials main concern is for Full-bloods , they should request withdrawal of the Congressional Act passed during Mankiller's term which gives the Cherokee nation the UKB federal funding and not block the UKB from obtaining Arkansas Riverbed monies.
Smith mentions a "Kern Clifton Blood Roll" Perhaps he means the "Final Rolls" of Cherokees listed with blood degrees .When Congress determined that Freedmen allotments would be unrestricted , Dawes Commissioners classed as many as possible as Freedmen . Although many "colored" citizens documented Cherokee blood ancestry, Commissioners enrolled almost all of them as Freedmen; with no blood degrees listed . The Cherokee nation does not accept for membership Freedmen descendants who document Cherokee blood degrees from sources other than the Dawes Final roll (examples: cancelled Dawes Census cards, Guion Miller or Dawes interviews) . Smith implies such individuals are not " Indians" although many can establish blood degrees greater than 1/16 for their Dawes "Freedmen" ancestor.
We disagree with Smiths conclusion that the Freedmen should leave "these people" alone. Cherokee Freedmen are Cherokee people. We will not giveup our Cherokee history, language, Cherokee blood, culture. and citizenship rights. Let tribal member Smith work to change Cherokee policy to assist needy full-bloods instead of working to obliterate rights of Cherokee Freedmen .
Marilyn Vann – President – Descendants of Freedmen www.freedmen5tribes.com
Messages In This Thread


text:
Jennifer Tomasik, Carey Gallagher, Lynn Oppenheim
This is the second piece in a series of articles about creating a "Culture of Value" in your organization. view »
Lynn Oppenheim
Presented at the 2013 Creating and Implementing Strategic Plans Workshop sponsored by the Group on Institutional Planning of the Association of American Medical Colleges, this presentation looks at what has changed over the years in strategic planning and what to expect in the years to come. This is a chance to think toward the future, and to help better position yourself, as a strategic planner, to be 'strategically thinking' toward future opportunities.view »
Lynn Oppenheim, Linda May, Bruce Metz
Information technology organizations are in a bind. Demand is almost unlimited while resources are tight. Unless the university community participates actively in decisions about funding levels and priorities, IT groups will be blamed for failing to meet unlimited expectations. Getting participation, however, is easier said than done. This paper offers concrete strategies in regard to two tough problems: How to revitalize a plodding or unweildy advisory structure. And how to get fast and focused input. Presented at EDUCOM view »


text:
IFPrograms® is a suite of analytic tools designed specifically for market researchers, sensory scientists and product developers that provides advanced analytical capabilities for a wide variety of sensory and consumer testing procedures. A brief description of its capabilities can be found on this site. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. Current customers in need of technical assistance, please submit an online support ticket.
Four levels of annual membership are available - click here to access the user manual.
If you are new to IFPrograms® and would like a 1-month free trial of IFPrograms® Professional, please contact us.
Available features within the five main categories comprising IFPrograms® are listed here and described below. Please click on the corresponding blue box for more information about each category.
We are committed to providing our users the best software experience possible, with improvements being made on a continuous basis.


text:
What Would Happen if We Got Rid of the Minimum Wage?
The Cato Institute's James Dorn and the Hoover Institution's Russell Roberts made this point at length during an Intelligence Squared debate last year in which they advocated doing away with minimum wages. 'Right now there are people within a few blocks of where we are sitting who cannot find work simply because their skills are not worth $7.25 an hour,' Russell told the audience. 'Why would you condemn those men and women to a wage of zero?'


text:
This week's crafter is Tracey from Sunrise Cards on Misi.
How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?
I started three years ago , card making was supposed to be a small hobby to keep me amused as my children were getting older and I was feeling slightly redundant, I enjoyed it as soon as I started and my husband decided to make some as well , within a day we were both hooked and soon realised that we were going to end up making more cards than we would ever need. We decided to try and sell some and since then the cards have just taken on a life of their own. Its worked out well as three years down the line obviously the children are even more off hand with lives of their own and this gives my husband and I a common interest.
Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?
there are two main negative aspects , firstly we don't have as much time as we would like to spend on our cardmaking as we both work as well but we have to work to get over the second negative aspect which is we spend a fortune on supplies !!!
What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?
Firstly be aware that it is very addictive and you will end up spending every last penny on great things to put on your cards. I found in the early days ( and even now to be honest ) that I got so many ideas by looking in magazines , online blogs, forums etc , these places really help when you need a bit of inspiration. Also join crafting forums etc and don't be afraid to ask for help and advice, I have found 'crafters' to be the nicest people I have ever met.
How did you find Misi?
there are often posts on the craft forum where I'm a member about Misi so I decided to see what it was all about.
What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?
Again due to lack of time I haven't listed as much as I would like in my shop but I think my favourite item at the moment is the takeway card
I think its fun and I love the bright colours
What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?
it has got to be cocoapod - I am a chocoholic and everything in their shop looks so nice - there's some great novelty items in it.
Random Facts:
What is your favourite time of day? - My favourite time of day is probably about 8pm as we've usually had dinner and tidied up , the jobs are done and its time to settle down for the evening ( unless we're making cards lol )
What is your ideal vacation? Our dream is to go back to Austria which is where we went on our honeymoon - we've always said we want to go back for our silver wedding anniversary which is next year so fingers crossed.
Where were you born? - I was born in Basildon Essex
What is your favourite animal? - I think it would have to be a penguin !!
What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed? - my friends always tease me about this but I quite like Hugh Grant
Thanks for chatting with us Tracey. To see more of Tracey's lovely cards, visit Sunrise Cards on Misi.
Friday, 14 May 2010
Posted by Helen @ The Beading Lady on 09:00 with 1 comment
1 comment:
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Tossa de Mar Hostels, Spain
See all Hostels in Tossa de Mar
Hostel | 0.3 km
Manà Manà is a friendly hostel located in the old town of one of the most beautiful places in Catalonia. A Hostel designed for you! The perfect…Read more place for relax, meet people and spend time in beach. Try our cooking classes in the best chill-out terrace and enjoy your holidays with us!from 17.11 USD
Browse the list above for details on all our hostels in Tossa de Mar and book Tossa de Mar hostels with no booking fee! Tossa de Mar is one of over 3,500 worldwide destinations available on hostelbookers.
Why book with hostelbookers?
Thousands of beds and private rooms, close to the things you're planning to see and do.
With great value hostels and cheap hotels, everything you want to see and do is just a step away.
Group booking?
Group of 15 or more traveling to Tossa de Mar?Contact us directly
Find the best Tossa de Mar hostel deals using the search box on the top or select a hostel from the list at the side. Use the map tab to see the location of hostels in Tossa de Mar.
Explore the world
- Amsterdam Hostels
- Bangkok Hostels
- Barcelona Hostels
- Berlin Hostels
- Budapest Hostels
- Dublin Hostels
- Edinburgh Hostels
- Hanoi Hostels
- Lisbon Hostels
- London Hostels
- Madrid Hostels
- Melbourne Hostels
- New York Hostels
- Paris Hostels
- Prague Hostels
- Rome Hostels
- Sydney Hostels
- Tokyo Hostels
- Venice Hostels
- Vienna Hostels
Top rated Tossa de Mar Hostels
Read what people have to say about our top rated Hostels in Tossa de Mar
- 1. Mana Mana Hostel 89%
Guide to Tossa de Mar
Guide to Find our best travel tips, advice and inspiration on what to do and where to stay in our guide to Tossa de Mar. Discover how to travel on a budget and don't forget to check the weather before you go!


text:
For Immediate Release: March 1, 2017
Washington, DC -- Tonight President Donald Trump addressed the joint session of Congress, stating his administration wants to "work with members in both parties to… invest in women's health."
Cecile Richards, President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, issued the following statement:
"If this Administration and Congress want to invest in women's health, they should listen to women. All across the country, women have spent the last week telling members of Congress they don't want access to birth control and cancer screenings taken away. Investing in women's health means ensuring all women have access to affordable, quality care -- that includes a full range of reproductive health care and the ability to make decisions about their health and their lives without the interference of politicians. That includes the decision about whether or not to have an abortion.
"Investing in women's health means ensuring women have the ability to choose a health care provider that meets their needs. It does not mean eliminating the Affordable Care Act, which has enabled 55 million women to access no-copay birth control and is directly tied to our nation's 30 year low for unintended pregnancy. Investing in women's health absolutely does not mean preventing women from turning to Planned Parenthood for basic health care.
"Access to health care is fundamental to any person's overall health and wellbeing. We know what happens when communities that already face barriers in accessing care are driven further into the shadows by policies designed to sow fear among them — they forsake the care they need to preserve their own safety. Planned Parenthood opposes forcing immigrants, Muslims, and people of color to live in fear.
"Yet, tonight, this Administration reaffirmed its agenda to increase harsh immigration enforcement efforts, impose faith- and nationalization-based restrictions on refugees seeking to enter the US designed to target Muslims, and target Black communities with unjust proposals.
"Reproductive freedom will never be achieved until all communities have access to quality education, economic opportunity, the ability to migrate with dignity, and can live without fear of deportation or systemic violence.
"Planned Parenthood health centers are proud to provide high-quality care to everyone regardless of race, gender, country of origin, faith, immigrant and refugee status, or to those who may otherwise have nowhere else to turn for health care. Planned Parenthood will continue to listen to women and families, and our doors will remain open, no matter what."
Tonight, Jennifer Frizzell, Vice President for Public Policy of Planned Parenthood of Northern New England,attended the joint session as a guest of Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). Ruth-Ellen Blodgett, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood Mid-Hudson Valley,attended as a guest of Representative Sean Patrick Maloney. Representative Steny Hoyer (D-MD)brought Ola Ojewumi, a community organizer and Planned Parenthood patient and supporter who was able to receive lifesaving medical care thanks to the Affordable Care Act.
Tomorrow Planned Parenthood patient Ola Ojewumi, Ruth-Ellen Blodgett and Jennifer Frizzell will join 150 Planned Parenthood patients and providers from across the country that will travel to Washington, D.C. this week. These advocates will hold over 200 meetings with members of Congress to share their personal stories and highlight the devastating consequences that 'defunding' Planned Parenthood would create for their communities.
NOTE: On Wednesday, March 1, at 11 a.m. ET, Planned Parenthood will hold a press conference on Capitol Hill to highlight the "We Are Planned Parenthood" Capitol Takeover Day. 150 Planned Parenthood patients and providers from across the country will travel to Washington, DC, to share their personal stories with Members of Congress through over 200 meetings and highlight the devastating consequences that 'defunding' Planned Parenthood would create for their communities.
Planned Parenthood is the nation's leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nation's largest provider of sex education. With over 650 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.
Planned Parenthood Federation of America
Planned Parenthood Federation of America media office: 212-261-4433
February 28, 2017


text:
Paasche airbrush Model VSR90 1 SET
Paasche provides the largest selection of airbrush models, industrial sprayers and support equipment since the beginning of the twentieth century. Their airbrushes are vastly used for various tasks by the modelers among others all over the globe.
One of the best Paasche airbrushes for plastic modelers is gravity feed VSR90#1. This unique 2 in 1 design allows for quick color change by including 2 different size color cups. Cups attach to top of airbrush assembly and swivel left or right for an unobstructed view. Suited for both left or right hand airbrushers The VSR90 will deliver the highest level of detail and control. It comes packed in a black case with foam insert. The example I've got for testing VSR90#1 SET includes VSR90 Airbrush, hanger, hose, wrench, 3.5cc and 5.25 cc cups and two head assemblies. Fine head assembly contains 0.25mm tip and needle used for spraying fine details. Second head assembly contains 0.66 mm tip and needle for spraying less detail than fine tip.
The main body of the airbrush is made of chrome plated parts as well as the aft handle. The trigger and air valve are a bit complicated and the lack of high pitch adjusting screw for fine tuning is rather noticeable. It took some time to get used to it but when I did I can only praise this product. Using the fine tip enables painting some rather difficult and interesting camouflages no matter are you making airplane, ships or vehicle models and in which scale. I use airbrush for painting mostly airplane models in 1/48 scale, but sometimes and some vehicle in 1/72 scale. Using the 0.66 mm tip will allow spraying your model with some primer or finishing coats without problems as well as some easier and less detailed camouflage so this Paasche airbrush is all you need.
The gravity feed cups have an 3.5cc and 5.25 cc fluid capacity, and switching between cups is very easy, so you don't have to waste time on cleaning the cup completely if you need to switch paint. Very important feature for all the Airbrushes is that they must be easy to disassemble, primarily because all the Airbrushes need a proper cleaning in order to function properly. I cleaned my VSR90 in five minutes the first time I used it. It is very easy, for the start I removed the cup and wiped it with a paper tissue, and then I mounted the cup back and filled it with cleaner and sprayed it through the airbrush. When this is done I just unscrewed air cup body and the tip is already off. Tip is easily cleaned and it contains no seals, so you can use solvent you like. This is a great feature and I really like it. Needle can be easily removed from the front or the back of the airbrush. Personally I like removing needle from the front and after cleaning I usually don't put it in the airbrush until next usage. Main body of the airbrush is easily cleaned with ordinary cotton swabs but perhaps Paasche Model: AC-7 airbrush cleaning set could do even better job.
Working with Passche VSR90 made me realize that simple solutions like easy switch between cups, no seals present and easy tip removing really saves time. This is excellent airbrush for its price of $115.00 and it is a great for all modelers no meter how experienced they are.
This product is highly recommended!
Darko Mladenovic
Sample product provided by Steven Pettersen from Paasche Airbrush Company


text:
Cheryl Fernandez-Versini 'quits The X Factor'
Cheryl Fernandez-Versini has quit The X Factor to focus on her music career.
The 32-year-old singer confirmed the news in a statement released on Tuesday (05Apr16).
"I have had such an amazing experience being a judge on The X Factor," she said. "I have learnt so much and enjoyed nurturing talent but I've missed making music and am excited to be recording again. I want to thank everybody I have worked with along the way, especially Simon who I love to bits. I hope the show continues to produce stars and I wish them all the best."
Cheryl is said to have told show boss Simon Cowell the news last week (ends03Apr16) at dinner when she personally handed him her resignation.
In his own statement, Simon hinted that his time working with Cheryl has not ended, despite their time on The X Factor coming to a close.
"Cheryl and myself spoke about this," Simon said. "I totally understand her commitment to making more records. She has been amazing on the show and in the near future we will be working on other things together."
Cheryl first joined the panel of the ITV show in 2008 before leaving in 2011 to act as a judge on the U.S. version of the show. However, that ended badly when Simon fired her after she failed to win over viewers.
After a few years of feuding, Simon and Cheryl were back on good terms and the former Girls Aloud singer rejoined The X Factor on the panel in 2014 and also judged last year's series (15).
As well as her determination to make her next album a success, her fledgling romance with One Direction star Liam Payne is also a priority for Cheryl, according to The Sun.
The line-up for the next series of the show has been hotly debated over the past few weeks, with rumours that Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne could both return to the panel.
© Cover Media


text:
To run a commercial financial analysis, you will need to create and use a commercial financial template. Follow the steps below to create a template:
- Click on your Name at the top-right corner.
- Click on Settings.
- Click on Financing Templates on the left menu.
- Click on Create New Template and select Commercial for type.
- You are able to select between Cash, Loan, PPA, or Lease.
- Model your Operation and Maintenance costs as well as National and Local Deprecation shown below:
Learn more about what each Financial Parameter mean here. Additionally, if you're curious about what Depreciation is, you can check it out here.
- If you are in the United States, you are able to model in the 30% Investment Tax Credit by clicking on Add Incentive.
- Select Cost, Add in a Name, Scope is National, the Amount is 30% of system cost and it is not capped shown below:
If you need to add in additional incentives and would like to learn more, read up on Financial Incentives here.


text:
Amazing Sleigh Beds which You Can Use for Single Size Beds and Kids Beds
- 0.1 Americans loved the look of sleigh beds and first began to modify the design in the early 19th century.
- 1 Sleigh Beds
Americans loved the look of sleigh beds and first began to modify the design in the early 19th century.
Sleigh beds refer to bed frames that have a headboard and footboard characterized by an outward curl at the top of each end. Sleigh bed somewhat resemble a sleigh, hence their name. Though sleigh bed can be made in different metals, they are typically made of carved wood. The more expensive variants of sleigh bed may feature hand carved curls.
Generally sleigh beds would have been made for a single person and might have been used as day beds or as child's beds.
Early sleigh beds might curl either inward or outward. Today's versions often stress the outward curl as it is considered more comfortable, and one doesn't hit one's head on the curl if one quickly sits up in bed. In fact some variants of modern sleigh bed do not even feature a curled headboard. Instead they offer a flat headboard and a curled footboard.
Some modern sleigh beds may also be covered in leather as new designers "reinvent" sleigh bed trends. Though designers first became re-interested in sleigh bed in the 1990s, they are now popular throughout the US. Much of this is attributed to the many magazines and television shows that focus on interior design.
If choosing a sleigh bed for one's bedroom, be aware that the outward curl at the top of the headboard will require a little additional space. The headboard will not be flush with the wall as it would be with a flat headboard design. If one is limited as to space, one can choose from a variety of flat headboard sleigh beds that still showcase the beautiful curl on the footboard.


text:
Review of 'Better late than dead' – Survival Game
Survival games is one of the main game type. It takes a lot of time to think of a good story to back up the game that is easy to follow and makes sense.
Looking through the list of survival games on steam, one caught my eye that seemed to have amazing graphics. The pictures and trailer looked amazing, it seemed to a really good idea for a new survival game. The price of the game was reasonable, currently listed at the price of £10.99 I decided to buy it to take a look for my self how the game felt.
I was wrong. The pictures looked good but the game was something else. The saying, 'Never judge a book by its cover' fits in just right.
Lets begin with the gameplay. Running on ant i7-4470 cpu and gtx 750 the beautiful graphics took a bit more fps than expected. The game was running at no more than 40fps and 25fps when its raining, that's fun. After getting used to the controls I couldn't get over the fact that there was mouse acceleration and no option to turn it off. The movement was weird and delayed, no tutorial for how to do anything in the game so it took some time to do anything. On steam the gameplay is described by the developers as 'inconsistencies that lead to more questions.' I have to agree with that as there is a lot of questions about the gameplay that is missing.
Moving forward to the story, wait what story? There seems to be a very weak story. It starts with "you're stranded on an island without memory, you only have a picture of a child." Right, you have a picture of a child. No memory and why are there full body bags everywhere? Coming back to the previous statement of having a lot of questions this is definitely one of them. Not only body bags, but suit cases as well, why are all of them empty?
The game sound is horrible. It has a small delay which is annoying. Not only the game sound is annoying but the music as well, I didn't realise that the game had music until I hit escape to mess around with the options. You would expect the music to fade in, but not with this game, it wants you to bleed from your ears with dramatic music.
As a summary, the game is buggy and horrible to play. The price is higher than most pre-alpha games that are better.


text:
Recently added item(s) X
You have no items in your shopping cart.
Custom placemats add a touch of style to any table, whether it's in a restaurant or in your home. Personalized placemat printing helps you boost your brand presence, promote special products, or pass out special kids' placemats. For the home, how about a set of custom placemats for that parent or grandparent who has everything? Try personalized placemats for:
For business or just for fun, custom placemats are a great attention-getting choice! Design your personalized placemats now!
If there are any errors on our part after the art work has been approved, BannerBuzz will send a replacement banner with priority shipping at no charge to the customer. We also offer a refund for the total amount. Clients must follow these steps in order to get a refund or reproduced banner. All returns must be reported within 7 days of the delivery.
Go to "my account" to create an online ticket. Here, customers must attach a picture of the damaged banner or incorrect product(s). Typically, a customer representative will respond within one business day and resolve the issue. In some cases, BannerBuzz will ask for additional information related to the damaged banner.
Refunds will be issued within 7 days if the online ticket is approved and will be processed and credited back to the original form of payment.
If refund is claimed after 60 days of receiving payments it will be in the form of store credit.
Estimated delivery times posted on the BannerBuzz' website reflect products that are already printed. We offer several shipping options. When you get to checkout please make sure you choose the appropriate shipping.


text:
Romie came into our program in 2011 after she was rescued from a hoarding situation after originally being rescued from a puppy mill. Romie was appx 7 years old at that time. She was so shut down and fearful that it took months and months of patience from her foster mom to be able to touch her without Romie being overcome with panic. As she began to feel more comfortable with her surroundings, her foster mom would hear little noises in the night and would find Romie up, while everyone else is asleep, making toys out of miscellaneous things around the house. In the morning all four corners of the area rug in the living room would be folded up and Romie would have a collection of toys, bottles, chews, and other silly items in a pile in the middle from her nighttime romp!!! Due to her senior age and the fact that Romie is still learning to trust humans (though she no longer hides when strangers come to visit) we made the decision to place Romie in our "forever foster" program where she will be able to stay in the foster home that she has come to know and trust and live out her days there where she feels safe and has a human that she loves. When a dog moves into our "forever foster" program, we provide for all of their needs and medical care until they cross the rainbow bridge. Generally speaking this is due to physical medical needs that deem them "un-adoptable" but in Romie's case it is due to her emotional medical needs. Sponsorship for Romie will help us cover the costs of her continued care, including food, treats, hygiene care, monthly preventatives, and regular vetting.
All donations for Romie will go specifically towards medical costs, grooming and food. You can choose to be a one time sponsor or a monthly sponsor.


text:
We are able to supply total solutions in all these areas, and value is our priority throughout – from the seed itself right through to your own shelves and the end consumer. Our solutions ensure that you get flexibility, know how and quality. Built on sound and solid foundations, we have the room and space for diversity to flourish. We know that satisfaction has an enduring effect, and so we are always working to create value – for our staff, for you and for the green world in here and out there. You can read a lot more about us in the menu on the left.
Are you looking for staff, or do want to find sales personnel for a specific country?
>Search for staff
See all GASA GROUPs catalogues
GASA GROUP Denmark A/S • Logistikvej 4 • DK-5250 Odense SV • Denmark • Phone: +45 6548 1200 • Fax: +45 6548 1201
Cvr.nr.: 25442024 • E-mail: email@example.com • Copyright © 2007- GASA GROUP • Privacy policy - GDPR


text:
The Albuquerque Area provides health services to American Indians in numerous tribal groups on reservations in New Mexico and Colorado. Each tribe has its own history, language and culture. In addition, IHS facilities serve numerous Indians who live, work, or attend school in the urban centers of the Albuquerque Area. The Albuquerque Area is divided into service units that provide an array of in-patient and out-patient services through hospitals, health care centers, field clinics and health stations. These health care facilities offer a broad range of curative, preventive, environmental and educational services to the tribes in the area.
Learn more about the Albuquerque Area


text:
Residential Cleaning
Janitorial & Commercial Cleaning
Move In Move Out Cleaning
S.C.C. Movers, Local & Long Distance
Carpet Cleaning
Moving Packages
Real Estate Service Options
Move In/ Move Out Cleaning
Yard Cleaning
Weed flowerbeds and mow lawn
Remove trees and shrubs from area
Prim non-flowering shrubs and spring flowering shrubs after they have bloomed.
Remove dead wood
Fertilize trees and shrubs. Apply black spot fungicide
Take care of insects and pets
Remove winter mulch
Plant summer bulbs, groundcovers and ornamental grasses
Clean and sanitize containers
Remove trash
Mop wax floors
Clean inside refrigerator and range
Clean stovetop
Clean underneath surfaces
Clean fans and overhead lights
Clean exhaust fans and overhead light
Remove all grease and dirt
Dishwasher will be cleaned out
Microwave will be cleaned
Clean wall as needed
Squeaky Clean Will Also Manage Your Units.
Our services package for landlords
Get your unit ready for inspection (prepare for all agencies).
Collect rent (to fit your convenience)
Oversee tenants (in all areas required)
Maintenance work (take care of all your maintenance needs)
Lawn care (take care of all your lawn care)
Rent or sale your units (take care of all your real estate needs)
For More Info Please Call Squeaky Clean Cleaning Services
For Info Regarding Any Real Estate Matters Please Call Us.
General Move In/ Move Out Cleaning
We Provide Resident, Apartment And Janitorial CleanUp
We wash walls and remove marks including streaks above your heaters. We repair small holes from anchors or nails being placed in walls. We wipe counter tops, mop and wax floors as needed. If there are any large holes we repair those to. We full paint walls. And we also remove all cobwebs. Wall and ceiling vents will be vacuumed and washed. We sweep all floors; fireplaces will be clean of all debris including ashes. Drapes will be vacuumed blinds. Light bulbs will be replaced as needed. the light covers will be removed and cleaned. The closets plus shelves will be washed.
Squeaky defrost and clean the inside of refrigerators. We also clean countertops surfaces for a shiny new feel. We clean the inside and outside of all cabinets. We wipe down all shaves, drawers, faucet fixtures, and pantry carpets, wipe down baseboards, woodwork, frames and vents built into the floors. ceiling and walls.
Living Room
We clean electrical outlets and covers, vacuum carpets and baseboards. We wipe walls and ceiling $ corners. We clean doors and doorframes. We remove and clean closet, shelves and all cobwebs.
Tiles will be washed cleaned
Mirrors will be washed and shined
Tub, shower, sink, and toilet will be sanitized and cleaned
Exhaust fans will be cleaned
Bathtub shower and walls will be cleaned
Clean and wipe down walls and towel bars
Wipe down all counter tops
Wipe all drawers, light fixture, and ceiling fans.
Remove cobwebs and clean corners
Mop floors/ vacuum carpet
Wipe down baseboards
Clean door and doorframes
Clean all ven
Yes We Can Fix That Too
LandLord Clean Up Service.
Squeaky Cleaning Services And Movers
544 Jefferson blvd, Unit #394
Port jefferson Station
New York 11776
Office: 631 320-4825
Cell: 631 384-3280
Fax: 631 828-1713
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Is Not Clean, If Is Not' Squeaky Clean!


text:
No less than 37 cases of salmonella infections have been linked to Lactalis' milk in the last year alone, prompting a mass recall and factory shut down.
French dairy group Lactalis admits it may have inadvertently been poisoning babies for more than a decade with salmonella-tainted powdered milk.
The company has recalled 12 million tins from stores in France and more than 80 other countries after discovering salmonella bacteria in some of its baby formula last month at a factory in western France.
European disease control authorities have documented 39 cases of 'Salmonella Agona' between mid-August and December last year, with 37 from France and one each from Spain and Greece.
A similar outbreak occurred in 2005, with 141 cases reported.
Lactalis CEO Emmanuel Besnier told French newspaper Les Echos it was likely that the factory in Craon (which they took control of in 2006) has been the source, and the plant would be shut down.
Incredibly, Lactalis found traces of salmonella at the factory in August and again in November but did not share the findings with regulators, as it can avoid doing so if its own internal tests reveal its product remains uncontaminated.
A private laboratory was employed to conduct 16,000 tests on its product and gave the all clear.
"If the analysis of end-products had revealed the presence of Salmonella Agona, we would of course not have marketed the products and we would have avoided the crisis," Lactalis said in a statement.
The government even inspected the factory in September, after the company had already discovered salmonella, but the area of the plant that produced the baby formula went unchecked.
"It can not be excluded that babies have consumed contaminated milk over this period (2005-2017)," Besnier said.
Indeed, The Institut Pasteur, a health research institute, said more than 200 babies in France had been contaminated with Salmonella Agona since 2005.
A victims' association has scoffed at the number of cases Lactalis has been tied to, highlighting the extent of its operations.
"These are several hundred million boxes concerned and several hundred thousand tonnes of products sent to more than 80 countries," it said in a statement.
This is a health scandal of unprecedented scale.
"This implies that the victims could have been much more numerous."
Besnier says Lactalis is facing numerous law suits, and with its export licence being suspended indefinitely, will take a substantial financial hit.
"We can't say definitively but (the cost) will be very high, several hundred million euros," he said.
"This case has cost us our export licence for a still undetermined period. It's the biggest crisis I've ever had to face as a boss."
The victims' association also plans to go after French supermarkets Leclerc and Auchan, which admitted to keeping Lactalis milk on the shelves after the recall had been issued.


text:
Are you as tired of this statement "We're Spending it because we reserved it" as I am?Wouldn't it make more sense to say, We reserved it, because we thought we'd need it, but since it still works, we're not going to spend it?…instead of….Who cares if it still works; we still better spend it, because that would mean we either have to give it back…or…pay income tax on it."Let's face facts…if the dough is not there, you can't spend it.Here's a novel approach.How about giving them less dough to spend now, and get more if and when we need it? That way they'd have to tell all of us what they're spending it on…and actually allowing us to decide if we want it spent.We're potentially putting two increases in property taxes on our ballot next week and we're asking for approval before anything happens.How would you feel if that decision was made by only 4 of 7 people?
Or let's put this in prospective.
Your house is getting older; the refrigerator is now aging…but it still works.Just how many of you out there would say…."Well, it might not work tomorrow, so let's go out an replace it today because we set up a fund a few years ago believing it would break now."I'll tell you who would….people who look at a bank account they believe can easily be filled by the flick of a vote of only 4 of 7 people, instead of saying:" We have too much, so let's give it back instead, and charge when you need it."I want to know WHO would do this?1. Drop $500,000 on an air conditioning system if the one you had, already worked?2. Drop $500,000 in renovations, pay all repairs for a tenant, provide him all the equipment he needs to operate a business, pay additional property taxes for him to operate, give him free advertising, and buy $3,000 worth of dinners for "selected" individuals, yet send you the bill?And…if he still can't cut it, departs in the darkness one day…because you never received a financial guarantee ?It's obvious that we have seven "rockets scientists" who would, and I also know someone who calls himself a journalist who brags about having been right 100% of the time in electing all of them.Gotta keep that record intact, don't we ?I wonder who the next "chosen" ones will be to continue this "successful" tradition?Time has proven this recruiting technique has determined their "electability" and perhaps the best reason "never to look back."


text:
Research provides the foundation for advancing evidence-based integrative health care.
The Ohio State University is among the nation's leaders of integrative health and wellness research.
Examples of our leadership role in integrative health and wellness research include:
- The Ohio State University was ranked among the nation's top 25 universities for funding from the National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2013.
- There are 17 tenure initiating units and more than 40 unique primary investigators with integrative health and wellness funding at the University.
- There are 45 extramurally funded projects at OSU that contain an integrative health and wellness research element, totaling more than $130 million in project support.
- OSU is represented in the Research Working Group of the Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine.
- The Ohio State University has two additional centers conducting related research in integrative health and wellness topics: the Food Innovation Center and the Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research.
Ohio State Integrative Medicine Research Initiatives
Ohio State Integrative Medicine brings researchers together and fosters future interdisciplinary translational research. Specific ways in which Ohio State Integrative Medicine supports research include:
- Pilot funding for research that is anticipated to lead to larger, definitive projects
- Annual research awards to recognize and celebrate excellence that will quickly translate into improved clinical care
- Academic partnerships with community groups engaged in scholarly examination of complementary and alternative medicine
- For more information about these and other research initiatives, contact Laurel Colombini.
Helpful Links
Contact UsFor appointments and class registration, contact:
Ohio State Integrative Medicine
2000 Kenny Road
Columbus, Ohio 43221
Fax: 614-293-9677
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
Scrooge offers open API for peer payment partners to integrate their peer payment solution with the leading fair splitting app. Scrooge will make your peer payment app more social and boost the usage of your peer payment app.
Scrooge was the first third party service that has utilized the Swish peer payment API to initiate peer payments in Sweden. Swish is a peer payment app owned by 9 Swedish banks and used by 6 million Swedish consumers.
+358 50 994 2220 firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
Fall in Boston
A compilation of photographs taken by Suffolk Voice reporters of the fall season in Boston. ...Read more ›
A compilation of photographs taken by Suffolk Voice reporters of the fall season in Boston. ...Read more ›
An earthquake struck Japan's northeastern coast Tuesday morning, temporarily affecting the cooling functions at a nuclear power plant ...Read more ›
At a town hall meeting held by the Presidential Search Committee, students voiced their concerns about the future of Suffolk in regards to the search for a new university president. ...Read more ›
Suffolk junior Sara Maloney launched her company, Buddha Bus Yoga, on the crowdfunding page IndieGoGo last week. Voice writer Nicole Baker has her story. ...Read more ›
In the spirit of World Antibiotic Awareness Week, Voice writer Chloe Dinh reports on how antibiotic resistance began, and how we can deal with it ...Read more ›
Have you ever messed up in life? Have you ever made a situation awkward? What about sending someone a text that wasn't meant to be sent to them? Nadine Byrd, played by Hailee Steinfield, in the new movie The Edge of Seventeen, is an expert at these things. Nadine Byrd is a junior in high school and her life is awkward already, she lives a tough life with drama at home and at school, luckily she meets a frie ...Read more ›
Lifestyle writer Michaela Fawcett lists the best tips for getting through the cold and snow for those not from Boston ...Read more ›
A Recap of major events that have occurred since Election Night 2016 ...Read more ›
"Captures your attention with a solemn beginning that transpires into a wickedly funny piece." ...Read more ›
James Testa, a senior at Suffolk University, is launching his company Warm Up on Kickstarter ...Read more ›
© 2013 Powered By Wordpress, Goodnews Theme By Momizat Team


text:
It doesn't matter if you're living in some quaint seaside town (lucky!) or land-locked in the middle of the country like I am, I think it's safe to assume that if you like House of Turquoise you happen to be a big fan of coastal decor. Which is why I'm super excited about today's giveaway from Cottage Coastal Store! Whether you want a lasting reminder of your favorite beachy destination or are looking to full-on accessorize with that cute cottage look we all love, I know you'll want to check out this online shop! The winner of the giveaway will win a $100 gift certificate…just look at all the turquoise goodies they have to choose from!
To Enter the Giveaway:
- Visit Cottage Coastal Store then come back here and leave a comment telling us what your favorite finds are. (Anonymous entries will be ignored, so please make sure you leave your email address!)
- For a 2nd chance: "Like" the Cottage Coastal Store Facebook Page, then leave another separate comment here saying you did.
- 3rd chance: Follow Cottage Coastal Store on Twitter, then leave another separate comment here saying you did.
- Winner will be randomly chosen and announced on Friday 11/4! Good luck….and Happy Halloween!!!
This giveaway is now closed! 🙂
Love turquoise? Visit my shopping blog Everything Turquoise…updated several times throughout the day! Check out Decor by Color for even more color-themed shopping!


text:
Federal politicians -- all 150 MPs and 76 Senators -- are back in Canberra this week, coming back from their parliament break early for an extraordinary session which will decide whether Australia heads to an early election. It is an intricate, complicated and tricky set of circumstances and parliamentary procedures which have brought our nation's leaders back to the nation's capital; here's what you need to know.
Parliament rose on March 17, and its members had planned to stay well away from Canberra until May 10 during the long, seven-week break between the autumn and winter sitting sessions. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull scuppered those plans almost instantly, announcing on March 21 that he would be recalling the parliament on April 18 for three weeks to consider his bills to reestablish the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC), and that if the Senate did not agree to pass the bills, he would ask the Governor-General to dissolve both houses of parliament and hold a double-dissolution election on July 2.
The parliament has been prorogued, an arcane and little-used procedure which essentially means all the prior existing business of the parliament -- all the previously slated bills, debates and discussions -- would be wiped from the slate and that the ABCC bills would be the first priority. More on that here.
Well, it's probably going to get very silly. The Senate is scheduled to resume at 9:30am. There will be some pomp and ceremony in the chamber to mark the official resumption of parliament -- a procession of the chamber officials, some speeches to remind our politicians about what's going on -- and the senators will get a chance to start speaking soon after that.
But arguably, the Senate does not have to consider the bills at all. The Parliamentary Library, in a great explainer on proroguing, says that while senators are compelled to arrive in the chamber, "the Senate can determine its own sittings and can be adjourned by its own resolution. Once the session has been opened the Senate has the power to adjourn until some time in the future should the majority of Senators choose to". Essentially, the senators have to turn up, but technically, they can immediately vote to go home.
This is where it comes down to tactics, and who actually wants to have a double dissolution election in July. By voting to not consider the ABCC bills, Turnbull has his excuse to ask for a DD election. Labor will not support the ABCC bills, but it is unclear whether -- when push comes to shove -- they will hand Turnbull his election trigger.
Even discounting the possibility that the Senate could choose to turn around and go home without even considering the bills, the ABCC legislation will face stiff opposition. The government needs the support of six of the eight crossbench independent senators to pass the bills. Five -- Bob Day, David Leyonhjelm, Nick Xenophon, Dio Wang and Ricky Muir -- have said they will either support the bills as they are, or will support the bills with a few amendments. That means the government needs one more, which will prove difficult.
John Madigan, Jacqui Lambie and Glenn Lazarus have been fiercely opposed to the bills so far. Lambie and Lazarus believe they are popular enough to win back their seats in a double dissolution, so even the threat of losing their jobs likely won't sway them.
Independent Senator Nick Xenophon has said he thinks it "unlikely" the bills will pass, telling ABC "it's almost inevitable that we'll have a July 2 election."
Likewise, Leyonhjelm thinks the double dissolution will occur.
"My guess is we'll probably go most of the week, but not next week and not the following week," he told Sky News.
"I doubt it'll even get past the second reading and we won't even get into consideration of amendments."
Ah yes, the other chamber. While the Senate will be the hotspot of action on Monday, the House will also sit. The revised sitting calendar says that the House will be in session on Monday and Tuesday, then… well, we don't know yet. It's likely the House will sit for more days, which will be decided and announced this week, but right now, the 150 MPs in that chamber don't have any solid commitments from Wednesday onwards.
Turnbull, his senior team, Labor leader Bill Shorten and the gang will all be around Parliament House this week, to keep an eye on things. If the Senate causes trouble, or refuses to even consider the bills, Turnbull would be within his rights to jump in the car and make the short drive to Yarralumla and ask the Governor-General for an early election. Labor is pretty upset about the two-day sitting week for the House, with the daily Question Time -- where the opposition has a chance to grill the government -- likely to not be happening every day this week.
"If the taxpayer is going to fly us to Canberra we should turn up for work for the entire week, there should be Question Time every day," said the manager of opposition business, Tony Burke.
"What we have in the program announced today is a prime minister wanting to work part-time and government that thinks it's too good, too far above the rest of Australia to be answerable to anybody."
Strap in, anything could happen. Tune in on the parliament livestream from 9:30am, or come back here -- we'll be watching it all unfold, and updating you as we go.


text:
Today's kids just don't measure up. Back in the day we did more bullying in a day than this generation can manage in a month.
That's not the impression we get reading stories of bullying on social networks, or NYT articles on girls at war (or maybe not). It also doesn't match the scary graph on this Guardian article. So it's my anecdote against the world.
Still. It's what I see with my special needs kids, and it's what other parents (usually younger than me) comment on. We see high school sports teams not only tolerating special needs "managers" and athletes, but making conversation, exchanging polite greetings, even being supportive.
Weird. Nothing like we were.
I know things aren't this good everywhere, I hear from friends in the old country that bullying of special needs kids is still widespread in Montreal schools. I expect there's a lot of more subtle bullying we don't see.
Still. I think there's progress. In our personal experience, todays kids just aren't the bullies we were. They're failing at nastiness.


text:
This is a famous shelter. Do you recognize it? Here's a hint. It's a manger! Obviously, I figured that this selection from my first illustrated book Mary Rode to Bethlehem on Me was the perfect fit for this week's Illustration Friday theme. After all, the famous couple (not shown) were looking for shelter on a fateful night so long ago. All the animals shown here are just a bonus.
Monday, February 15, 2016
7 comments:
- Phil Slade said...
Wow Sharon. You are so talented - your colourful drawings are magical. Your photography is equally impressive.
- February 20, 2016 at 8:44 AM
- Margaret Adamson said...
This is beautiful. I have just arrived back from costa Rica and had a fabulous time. saw many new life birds but have not had the time to do a count. Am veryy tired after over 24 hours travelling. Have a great weekend.
- February 20, 2016 at 11:47 AM
- Pamela Combs said...
Sharon, this is wonderful! Can't wait to see the book.
- February 20, 2016 at 2:18 PM
- Tweedles -- that's me said...
That is a beautiful shelter
- February 20, 2016 at 10:04 PM
- DJan said...
Love it! And I'm pretty sure I recognize it :-)
- February 21, 2016 at 11:26 AM
- Tina Fariss Barbour said...
I love this! All the animals gathered round . . .
- February 21, 2016 at 9:57 PM
- theartofpuro said...
Love it :)
- February 23, 2016 at 10:02 AM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Looks like some of the big sites managed to get a hold of some tester Windows Phone 7 devices (luuuucky!) and the consensus overall seems to be quite solid. The hardware is a Samsung Taylor SGH-i707 with 480 x 320 (HVGA), which is a bit odd although reportedly it looks really good. The Taylor also has a 5MP camera, speakers plus microphone on the top and bottom for both and a non-functional front-facing camera. There's even a dedicated camera button that works if the device is locked.
Engadget points out the great on-screen keyboard, camera and even browser, and finally concluding that WP7 is a work in progress, a promising one, but not quite there yet.
Paul Thurrott also does a fantastic tour of the device and is quite impressed with the OS. Although we have to experience Windows Phone 7 vicariously through him, we usually agree with his insight and highly recommend the full read.
There's also Matt Miller of ZDNet (and of Nokia Experts) who has a nice 8-page review, concluding that the "...current experience is amazingly stable and fluid and I am quite impressed with what they have done".
Anyways, we'll let their reviews stand for themselves. Read 'em and comment back here if you're more or less excited now.