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Throughout the duration of the Governor's "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" directive, OSPI will continue serving the public via phone, email, and the website.
See OSPI's COVID-19 guidance and resources for educators, students, and families.
Parent and Family Engagement (PFE)
- PFE Webinar (September 2019)
- Q&A PFE Webinar (September 2019)
- PFE in Title I, Part A Webinar (September 2019)
- Bulletin No. 045-19 - 2019-20 Parent and Family Engagement Requirements
The Title I, Part A program insist on robust Parent and Family Engagement (PFE) activities at every school where federal funds support effective teaching and engaged learning. Title I, Part A has one of the strongest PFE components of all Title federal programs. PFE in a child's education is a greater predictor of academic success than whether or not that family is affluent or poor.
"Family engagement refers to the systematic inclusion of families in activities and programs that promote children's development, learning, and wellness, including in the planning, development, and evaluation of such activities, programs, and systems." – U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Policy Statement On Family Engagement From The Early Years To The Early Grades, 2016
Program Benefits
Research tells us that students with engaged parents and families, are more likely to:
Learn to read faster (exhibit faster rates of literacy acquisition.)
Have higher grades and test scores.
Are promoted and take more challenging classes.
Adapt better to school and have better attendance.
Have better social skills and behavior.
Key Components and Guidance
Except where otherwise noted, the Washington ESSA Consolidated Plan developed by the by Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.


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First in a series
Attending a community forum hosted by the Waxahachie chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, city councilors and staffers discussed numerous topics with residents from the city�s east side.
�The reason you all have been asked here is because we have concerns,� chapter president Betty Jefferson said.
First discussed was the site of the former Oak Lawn School, a piece of property about three acres in size located on Wyatt Street.
The D.H.Thompson family deeded the property to Waxahachie ISD in the early 20th century, stipulating that the land would remain in the district�s control so long as it was used for an educational purpose. However, the WISD moved to divest itself of the property in March, Jefferson said, and the future of the historic site is up in the air.
Residents at the meeting proposed a number of ideas for the site�s future, from putting a modular building there to serve as a community education center to take any permanent building projects on the site without making sure the title is clear, Stevens said it could be possible to maintain the property as a park.
Such an action could also help the city to eventually take possession of the property, the city manager said, citing a method of seizure known as adverse possession, in which an entity can assume ownership of by maintaining it for a period of from five to seven years.
Council member Ron Wilkinson raised concerns, though, expressing his opinion the condemnation mechanism would be more straightforward, could be quicker and would make ownership issues more clear.
After several residents raised questions about why action - such as the use of a modular structure on the property - is not being taken now, Wilkinson said the legalities surrounding the deed should be addressed first.
Calling it a threshold issue, Wilkinson said it would be imprudent for the city or anyone to move forward with any plans yet, as �no foundations� would provide support or funds if there were any ownership issues.
He also said the site should be checked out to determine its suitability for a new structure.
Council member Joe Gallo also advocated moving forward more slowly, noting the city only recently acquired an interest in the issue and is only now beginning the process of gathering input from residents about what to do with the site.
Gallo also emphasized that if a �temporary, short-term solution� were sought and put into motion immediately, it could negatively affect any abandonment/adverse possession proceedings the city may desire to pursue.
Responding to a question from Jefferson, council members affirmed they would discuss the Oak Lawn site during their upcoming retreat, dedicating a space on their agenda to addressing the questions surrounding the property.
That retreat will take place Wednesday, Oct. 30, at the Waxahachie Civic Center.
The site�s history, while part of the motivation for preserving it, also presents challenges for the future.
City building inspector Sanford Smith told those present the old school building had contained some asbestos and when it was demolished, the debris was buried on site.
At that time, the laws only required asbestos abatement if the debris was removed from a demolition, Smith said, noting the building�s basement and additional excavation were filled with the school�s remains, which were subsequently buried under about 6 feet of dirt.
Putting a solid-slab foundation on the site - a necessity for a multi-story building - could require excavating and removing up to 22 feet of earth and debris from the site before it could be built upon, he said, noting that left encapsulated, the material remains undisturbed.
Abatement questions about potential airborne contaminants would also have to be addressed, Smith said, adding, �It wouldn�t be impossible to build on the site, but it would be very expensive.�
Email Anthony at firstname.lastname@example.com
removing all buildings and erecting a historical marker instead.
Jefferson told the audience that discussions had taken place with various entities about the property, with city staff noting several obstacles.
City Manager Paul Stevens told the audience that the city is hesitant to build anything on the site, as the city may not be able to own whatever it builds.
If it was determined the property was not being used for an educational purpose, it could revert to the heirs of D.H. Thompson, he said. As of yet, the city has been unable to locate potential claimants to the property, Stevens said, adding that the city�s attorney has tracked the title into the 1970s thus far.
Since the city does not want to under

subset: commoncrawl


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As the Our Girl actress gears up for her 30th birthday, Mark's set to party in the States...
They recently spent a loved-up week with each other celebrating their second wedding anniversary in South Africa, but Michelle Keegan and Mark Wright have once again gone their separate ways.
And despite looking more 'together' than ever while away, Michelle now has to deal with the fact that she's set to spend her milestone 30th birthday on 3 June without her husband, as she films the third series of Our Girl in Cape Town while Mark heads Stateside for work.
See: Michelle Keegan And Mark Wright Celebrate Second Wedding Anniversary
'She's putting on a brave face,' says our insider. 'But it's still difficult.'
As LOOK reported previously, the pair are said to be finding this eight-month period tough as Mich focuses on filming. And since Mark landed a new opportunity with US TV show Extra, they're having to factor in his schedule too.
'Last time Michelle was away, Mark was able to come over whenever she wanted, but it's harder now he's working in the US. She's so proud of him, but of course it's natural she's gutted that
they can't be together on her actual big day,' adds our source.
'They were both pretty teary at the airport. It's hard on Michelle – 30 is such a huge birthday and it's equally difficult for Mark because he's riddled with guilt about being away.'
See: Mark Wright Shares A Sweet Anniversary Tribute To Michelle Keegan
We totally get it's not ideal for Mich. After all, these two love a party: Mich organised a surprise bash for Mark's 30th, while their first wedding anniversary saw Mark whisk her off to a fancy spa.
However, despite being apart, we're told the two have made some rules for the next three months. 'They're getting better at handling it,' says another source. 'They're trying to organise when they can be in contact and that's helping.
Latest Stories
'They're trying to be in touch every day, either on FaceTime or WhatsApp, and make a special effort to share their lives even when they're apart. That connection is so important. Right now
the signs look good. But with more time apart to come, they're determined not to get complacent.'
For more on Michelle Keegan and Mark Wright, check out this week's issue of LOOK.


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Skipping the highway and taking the gravel road, Inuit singer Elisapie Isaac found herself in front of 700 spectators at Monument Nationale on September 27 as part of POP Montreal. After six years away from the stage, she finally made her return with a tour in support of her new album, titled The Ballad of a Runaway Girl.
"We're in the midst of an 'Indigenous Renaissance,'" announced Isaac to her audience, explaining that the Renaissance is "action and explosion of all the fucking shit that's been [swept under the carpet]." Quoting fellow Indigenous artist Jeremy Dutcher, Isaac says that non-Indigenous people are willing to understand Indigenous cultures more than ever before, and that Indigenous people are able to share their cultures under their own terms.
Isaac also thinks that there needs to be a new understanding of Indigenous artists. According to her, people need to accept that Indigenous artists won't simply continue to create "traditional" art but will incorporate more contemporary influences into their work. Her latest album carefully blends the two together, and she describes it as having "that métissage, which is super rich and has its own identity."
Isaac sees the term "runaway girl" as representative of a lot of Indigenous women from the North. According to her, running away from one's community can be empowering and a way to celebrate and explore oneself.
The Ballad of a Runaway Girl intertwines folk sounds reminiscent of Isaac's childhood with Inuit instrumentation and lyrics in Inuktitut. Through songs like "Una," which talks about motherhood, or "Ikajunga," where she recounts her postpartum depression, the singer takes her listeners through the various experiences she has experienced in the past six years. Addressing her audience in English and French, she tells stories of womanhood, motherhood, home, and the struggles of being Indigenous in Canada. On the personal nature of her art, Isaac said, "that's the only way I can tell a story. It has to feel personal and [I] have to have a very strong emotional connection to the stories."
Isaac calls her previous album, Traveling Love, more of a pop album, saying, "it was more on the light side, kind of a 'girls just wanna have fun' vibe." She says that at that point in her career, it made sense for her to put out that type of work. Since then, Isaac has matured, and so has her sound. She shares that she is now more grounded and connected to reality, saying that the process of making this album "was about finding the truth and being able to be vulnerable when you have to be because [vulnerability] is also strength."
Isaac opens her album with "Arnaq," the Inuktitut word for woman. In the song, she celebrates the strength of all women, but singing in Inuktitut, she specifically addresses Inuit women and their importance within the Northern communities. On stage, Isaac recounted the hardships that Indigenous women face to this day, and complimented the strong will and beauty of the women she grew up with, who continue to inspire her to this day. The singer welcomes people to interpret her songs in any way they wish but for her, it would always be about celebrating the strength of Northern women.
"[Non-Indigenous people] are listening, but I think their brains are still a little lazy, and they are not used to [thinking about Indigenous issues] because they've lived in ignorance for so long." – Elisapie Isaac.
The title Ballad of a Runaway Girl depicts Isaac herself. In a way, she sees the term "runaway girl" as representative of a lot of Indigenous women from the North who travel south in search of a "better life." To Isaac, running away from one's community can be empowering and a way to celebrate and explore oneself. "[Women] have just as much of a right as anyone else," she adds. As a "runaway girl" herself, she feels she still has a lot to figure out, much like when she first ran away with big aspirations in life.
Now, Isaac says she doesn't strive to change the world. Instead, she wants to focus on herself in order to be an effective role model. She aims to inspire the younger generations of Indigenous people to be proud of their heritage and find strength to push through the centuries-old systemic oppression.
"That is the mission for me, for kids to hear that guerrière (warrior)," she said.
To Isaac, the main impediment to the flourishing of the Indigenous Renaissance is the lack of education on Indigenous issues among non-Indigenous people. She says that they have simply not done their homework yet.
"[They] are listening, but I think their brains are still a little lazy, and they are not used to [thinking about Indigenous issues] because they've lived in ignorance for so long," Issac states.
"It would be nice [if] maybe five years from now it was more common to know which tribe lived where and whose territory that is," she added.
Although it may only be a small indication of progress, the makeup of the audience at Isaac's performance showed an attempt at learning through art. She described the crowd as diverse and ranging "[from] very young to older, and with [people from] different ethnicities," and called it the best audience that she has ever had. Isaac thinks that bringing people together to form a common understanding is one of the first steps to addressing the obstacles to the Indigenous Renaissance, saying, "once we feel like we could emotionally connect – it's going to change everything."
Through her upcoming documentary on the life of Inuit women and an animated film in partnership with Montreal artist Marc Séguin, Isaac hopes to further establish an understanding of Inuit culture in the mainstream. According to her, the film will be about "a spiritual world, about the mentality, and about how Inuit people see the world in a very beautiful and unique way. I thought it would be a nice window into something different in the Canadian world, and I think it's amazing to [hear] that voice."
The Ballad of a Runaway Girl is out now and is available on iTunes, Spotify, and Amazon Music.


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Fundamentals of Algebraic Modeling (An Introduction to Mathematical Modeling with Algebra and Statistics)
June 25, 2018
FUNDAMENTALS OF ALGEBRAIC MODELING 5e presents Algebraic concepts in non-threatening, easy-to-understand language and numerous step-by-step examples to illustrate ideas. This text aims to help you relate math skills to your daily as well as a variety of professions including music, art, history, criminal justice, engineering, accounting, welding and many others.
Download ToanKho: http://lk.libvui.com/HbvkUOaZ


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At the end of the road you'll find three small, not so spectacular stupas on a lawn that's flanked by a souvenir market with Burmese goods on one side and the Thai and Burmese immigration checkpoints on the other.
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The "three pagodas" themselves are not even the originals (these were submerged in the lake further south), and overall one can hardly call this an "attraction". But there is something to be said for finding yourself in a far distant corner of Thailand where you can literally see the Burmese flag and the Burma landscape on the other side.
If you arrive in the early morning or late afternoon, you'll see throngs of Burmese citizens in colourful dress and faces powdered with talc as they walk to and from their jobs in factories just over the border. Keep in mind that, unlike in Mae Sot or Ranong, most nationalities cannot cross the border here, not even momentarily to get another 15 days in Thailand.
A couple of resorts are nearby in case you can't get enough of those three little stupas. Note that the border south of here is typically not marked by walls or checkpoints, so be careful if you go exploring off the main roads as you could easily end up in Burma without knowing it.
What next?
Browse our independent reviews of places to stay in and around Sangkhlaburi.
Check prices, availability & reviews on Agoda or Booking
Read up on where to eat on Sangkhlaburi.
Check out our listings of things to do in and around Sangkhlaburi.
Read up on how to get to Sangkhlaburi, or book your transport online with 12Go Asia.
Do you have travel insurance yet? If not, find out why you need it.
Planning on riding a scooter in Sangkhlaburi? Please read this.
Buy a SIM card for Thailand—pick it up at the airport when you arrive.
Browse the web securely while travelling with TunnelBear. Try with a 7–day free trial.


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I was driving along Church Street trying to get to work at around 10:45 hours when two police officers in the above mentioned vehicle pulled me over and accused me of using my cell phone while driving. After explaining to the officer that I wasn't on my cell phone and my hands were just on my cheeks as I drove, he became very aggressive in the manner and tone in which he started speaking. The police officer then proceeded to take my licence and registration and went to the police vehicle parked in front of me and stood there for about 20 minutes then returned and asked me to drive to the traffic headquarters, which I did immediately. After 45 minutes of waiting at the station the two officers were still nowhere to be found.
I'm very unhappy with this situation for many reasons. The officer refused to give his name, he wrote down my information and never reported to the station with it which I believe shouldn't be. That information can be passed to anyone and used for anything since it was crystal clear the officer had no intention of using it at a police station to write a charge, etc. Also, I would like to suggest that officers should be trained properly on their observational and conversational skills.


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My heart skipped a little beat when Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain landed on my kindle. I guessed I was in for an emotional heartfelt journey based on the authors previous books, and I was absolutely right. My thoughts on Big Lies in a Small Town… Read more »
Book Review : The Sun Sister by Lucinda Riley
I was really excited about this book, as every sister's story adds another level of depth to the overall plot of this series. And the formation of this family remains as elusive as ever, as does the true story of their adopted father. I CAN'T WAIT for the final instalment…. Read more »
Blog Tour : The Midwives of Lark Lane by Pam Howes
This book was a little experiment for me, as I don't normally read books in this genre. It was however a calculated risk, as Call The Midwife is one of my favourite tv series. And I'm so glad I took a chance with this book as it warmed my heart… Read more »
Blog Tour: The Dark by Derek Flynn
The Dark is the latest offering from Irish author Derek Flynn. I had been meaning to read his books with a while, so when I found the book can be read as a standalone I was happy to throw myself straight in to the middle of this series. Thanks to Derek… Read more »
Blog Tour: Broken Souls by Patricia Gibney
After devouring books one to six in the fabulous Lottie Parker Series by Patricia Gibney earlier this year, I've been eagerly anticipating Broken Souls to see what happens next. Huge thanks to Bookouture for allowing me participate in the blog tour. My thoughts on Broken Souls If you know me,… Read more »
Blog Tour: Rewrite The Stars by Emma Heatherington
Huge thanks to Harper Collins Ireland for asking me to join the blog tour for this fab looking book, I couldn't reply to the email fast enough. I knew it looked good, but what was inside was even more delightful that I had hoped. My thoughts on Rewrite The Stars… Read more »
Book Review: The Wave by Virginia Moffatt
Climate change is on the tip of everyones tongue nowadays, and we are all too uncomfortably familiar with how it is changing our world. So a book about a devastating tsunami coming full steam at Cornwall, and the impact that would have, was a book I wanted to read. My… Read more »
Book Review: The Man Who Didn't Call by Rosie Walsh
I've never read a book by Rosie Walsh before but I loved the ghosted theme of this book blurb. Seems so relevant in todays world, and I'm always fascinated by why someone would just drop out of your life, with no explanation given. My thoughts on The Man Who Didn't… Read more »
Book Review: The Tiger Catcher by Paullina Simons
Well if ever there seemed to be a match made in heaven, it would seem to be me and The Tiger Catcher by Paullina Simons. I mean it's Paullina Simons (who I've adored in the past) and it's time travel. I would have been swiping right as quick as I… Read more »
Top Ten Tuesday : Favorite Things to Eat/Drink While Reading
Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together. This weeks theme is Favourite Things to… Read more »
Book Review: After She Vanished (David Dunnigan #1) by S.A. Dunphy
David Dunnigan is a series that I've seen others rave about time after time. And I kept noting to myself to read it. So I'm way behind on the hype train, but I'm here now, and delighted with the journey that I've had with After She Vanished by Shane Dunphy…. Read more »
Blog Tour: Meet Me in Monaco
There were two reasons I had to get my hands on Meet Me In Monaco ASAP Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb wrote one of my all time favourite books Last Christmas in Paris Grace Kelly! Enough said. I've beyond grateful that Harper Collins Ireland invited me to join the blog… Read more »
Book Review: I Confess by Alex Barclay
I confess that I've never read an Alex Barclay book before. But now I have and I've seen the light. I'm a believer in her ability to spin a great yarn, and determined to read more of her back catalogue soon. My Thoughts on I Confess by Alex Barclay So… Read more »


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By Barton Tanner
I want to revisit the world of authenticity today. This is a word that I throw around a lot in my life and a concept that we are all, directly or indirectly, engaging with every day. Authenticity is where we get all our power, freedom and self-expression in life. It allows the development of true connection with those in your life and the ability to stand for yourself and your success. But authenticity and inauthenticity is very much like the loch-ness monster. It is something you hear about in fairy tales but ultimately struggle to find in reality. Essentially, the easiest way to find real authenticity is to develop the capacity to acknowledge where in your life you are being inauthentic. Put simply, where in your life do you not have your desired results. Generally, this is the best place to start to look for inauthenticity.
I will put a disclaimer in here. It is not 'Good' (authentic) vs 'Bad' (inauthentic). It is more about looking at your life and going to work at what is not working. One of the analogies I love to use, is that of a dance party. If you're hosting a dance party and you have 100 people there all on the dance floor, this would be considered an awesome party. It could be easy to sit back and pat yourself on the back as you have the desired result. But imagine you haven't got any ice in the esky for drinks. If I am to walk in and say "this is a great party, but where is the ice?" The first response will generally be – "piss off, there's 100 people on the dance floor and you're asking about ice". I can't floor this response, but in the world of finding your inauthenticity, I think it is important to not be afraid to go to work at what is not working.
I would liken this response in the above analogy to that of someone who is on the court for a tennis match compared to those in the crowd. It is actually quite amusing when you start to look at how spectators behave in sport. They scream and shout, they challenge decisions, call players all sorts of names and sometimes even cry from an emotional connection to the loss of their team. But really, spectators have absolutely no capacity to change the result of a game. No matter how much you cheer and shout, your shouting has no impact on the game. The only people who can impact on the game are those on the courts. Sometimes your insults may emotionally affect the players or distract them, but that is on the player not you. It is great for a spectator on the stands really, you have no risk, nothing to lose and can ALWAYS be right (he should have passed the ball when I said). There is a definite advantage to sitting in the stands sometimes, for example as a coach. You can see where some flaws are or where improvements can be made. But at the end of the day, you are in the stands. This is how people live their lives when they are not chasing authenticity. They are very good at analysing where others are falling short, but are often not on the courts, playing the game of their own life. Results can only happen on the court. So like authenticity, if you don't have results in certain parts of your life, start to think about how you are engaging with the situations. Are you looking at it as if you're on the court playing the game or are you watching things happen to you?
All of this is about adding to your toolkit. If you are not continually checking in and chasing authenticity for yourself in your training, it will translate into all other aspects of your life. When things in life happen, it is important to have the right tools to approach situations. I think the most important principles to remember are:
- Without exception, you are whole, complete and perfect! There is nothing wrong with you. I often speak about this in relation to self-esteem, but people are so harsh on themselves. The barriers and roadblocks in your way are not negative, they just are. It is now your choice on how to hold them.
- That which you resist about yourself, persists about yourself! If you spend too much time resisting a problem or thing that you are trying to change, it will dig its heels in. Stop resisting and have a look at where you are being inauthentic. By identifying this, the problem will generally just fall away or your next actions will make it seem so insignificant.
- Don't waste time trying to look good for others and avoiding looking bad. We fear saying things or acting because of how others will interpret what we do. Just remember, Martin Luther King Jr didn't need you to agree with his cause and what he stood for. He simply stood for it, took the next action and watched the world change around him!
Lastly, remember that authenticity is a muscle. Like our Gluteus, we have to continually engage and challenge the muscle of authenticity if you want to get better function from it. Everything you want always lives outside your comfort zone. So, get to work on your muscle of authenticity and remember the words of Aristotle;
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."


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Two Marksville, Louisiana, residents have been accused of a felony for shooting deer from a LaSalle Parish road and damaging approximately a quarter of a mile of the levee with potholes from the tires of their truck. According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, the two accused men, 45 and 43, have been booked for felonies on charges of criminal damage to the federal levee and have also been cited for several alleged hunting violations.
Man arrested for drug crimes in Louisiana
Crimes related to drugs are not uncommon in the United States. Many people are arrested by law enforcement agencies on suspicion of drug crimes in different parts of the country. Louisiana is no different. For example, authorities recently arrested a person for multiple drug offenses.
Child pornography discovered in a Louisiana city computer
Child pornography has been detected on a Louisiana city computer. A cyber crime unit linked to the FBI confirmed that they have found child pornography in the computer at the Louisiana Water Department.
Houston rapper arrested on drug and weapons charges in Louisiana
Houston-based rapper Lil Flip was arrested in Louisiana on Christmas night after being pulled over for speeding by deputies from the De Soto Parish Sheriff's Office. The rapper was arrested on drug charges and weapon charges.
Investigation leads to arrest of Wal-Mart employees for theft
Theft is a serious crime in which a person's property is taken without consent or by fraudulent means with the intention of depriving the person of his or her property. The Louisiana judiciary system has strict laws for felonies related to theft. A person charged with theft in Louisiana can face charges with long-term consequences.


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It has been far too long since I took the time to write something for myself. I am currently coming to the end of week 11 in my second to last semester at Sac State. 15 units, two jobs, a 7 month old puppy, and trying to hold it all together mentally. All aboard the struggle bus? Life is overwhelming right now, but with Thanksgiving around the corner, I just wanted to take a moment and express gratitude for all the wonderful people that I have in my life.
I have an amazing support team. First of all, my mom. It's hilarious because everyone says that their relationships with their parents get better after they move out and that couldn't be more true with us. We talk every day and I literally harass her if she doesn't text me back. Talk about role reversal… HAH. My dad is pretty rad too. College is 100% working through technology issues on your own, luckily I have a genius on speed dial. My boyfriend Michael is pretty dang amazing, putting up with my number of mental breakdowns throughout the semester… still have yet to make you the "thanks for putting up with me cake". Thankful for you. Also super thankful for my roommate Drew that puts up with my rants that probably don't make sense half of the time but it's nice to have someone to listen when the going gets really effing stressful. All my friends and family have this awesome unconditional love and support and it's a huge motivating factor to better my life and work hard to reach my goals. So thank you times a million. May you live to be a thousand.
For those of you that don't know, Murphie came into my life in April. This photo was taken shortly after we brought her home. Typically every week she commutes with me from Sacramento to Columbia. She is now almost 8 months old! Murphie's mom was a blue heeler, and her dad was a red heeler so she's split right down the middle. Crazy to believe that time has just flown by that fast. We should probably change her name to Princess Murphie because she is the most spoiled creature EVER… yes I'm guilty! She's an excellent companion and she's great to snuggle with when she feels like gracing me with that privilege.
I've really just come to the conclusion that life is too short to fuss over the little things. I bitch and complain but at the end of the day, I have nothing to complain about. I have a roof over my head, food, family, education, etc. None of us know how long we have on this Earth, and I've been so pessimistic lately. I want to consistently practice gratitude, not just because I feel obligated too. There are so many things to be grateful for. Shit happens, no one is perfect, and I don't want to lose someone I love again regretting that I didn't make more of an effort to show them how much I really care. As for this blog, I kind of have a project that I'm currently working on but have zero time to commit to. If you've made it this far, thank you for reading! Not that you care but now you know!
PS, literally have this song on repeat on Spotify because it's so applicable to life right now


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Do you want know more about Mallorca? Today we'll talk about the medical centers in Mallorca, so you know there's no need to leave the island to get quality medical and surgical treatment. Keep on reading!
Medical centers in Mallorca 2017
Find out all you need to know about the medical centers in Mallorca.
There are a wide number of private clinics in Mallorca where you can be treated without waiting too much time and have any necessary surgery. The technical equipment is up to date and in great conditions, ready to be use.
The main clinics in the capital are the Palma clinic, the Clinica Rotger, Clinica Picasso and Clinica Capistrano, the last one with a specialized area of rehabilitation.
You can also find the best specialists in every discipline, all of them offer a good service and they can speak several languages to have a better communication with the patient; the most common languages are Spanish, English, and German.
Every patient is placed in single rooms with an extra bed for accompanying person and they have all the necessary amenities to be the comfortable as they can.
There are two major public hospitals in Palma, the others are in Inca and in Manacor. These facilities are in perfect condition, and each of these hospitals can cover healthcare in their particular area. They also cover a wide range of medical fields. On the other hand, technical equipment meet international standards to offer the best service.
Every hospital in Mallorca offer a translation service for multiple languages at any time of the day and anyone with a European health insurance card can be treated there if they carry their ID.
All public hospitals have emergency departments, with emergency vehicles that include medically- staffed ambulances, helicopters and planes.
You just need to know the emergency number which is 112. It is totally free, with English or German speaking operator if needed, and supported by all networks. The number for the emergency service of "Ib-Salut" (the national health service) is 061.
If you go to Mallorca, don't worry. You'll surely find the best medical care you could ever need in every medical facility nearby.


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Latin American Art
Art for Sale
Exotic Latin American Art
Miami Based Artist Laelanie Larach
Unique Arts in Miami
Unique abstract modern art with a latin american art style by the artist Laelanie Larach! Her signature art style is super unique in Florida, a lovely fusion of bright colors makes her oil paintings vibrant that will fit perfectly in your art collection.
Latin American Art
Original Fine Arts in Miami Florida
Top Latin American Arts in Miami available at the best art gallery in Florida "Laelanie Art Gallery"
We Sell the Best Original Oil Paintings in Miami
Top Arts in Miami
Art is so important in my life,it has a huge impact on my soul cause it's a powerful form of expression and it allows me to convey or demonstrate deeply-held feelings; it opens my creativity and takes me to a different level of consciousness where I can show all my thoughts in my abstract paintings.
A certificate is provided with all the paintings I create. It states the following:
– The painting's name and dimensions
– The artist's name (myself) and the fact that it is hand-made
– The media used
– My signature and Year
Shipping & Handling
The paintings are professionally packaged with 1/2″ bubble wrap and polyfoam sheets where necessary. The paintings are then placed inside a double-wall corrugated box for added security and 'FRAGILE' stickers are placed over the box. UPS is in charge of the packing.
USA Customers: All paintings are sent via UPS, which takes it 2-5 business days to arrive to US destinations. Please note that there are no custom fees on original artwork to the US.
Free Shipping Included in U.S.A.
All International Shippings the client pays a fee. Kindly contact the art gallery for more information.
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One of the more interesting quirks of K-Pop is the brand endorsements. Many of these deals between brands and artists go beyond mere commercial appearances and lip service at events, blossoming into full-fledged song releases—often touting some form of fried chicken or a cell phone.
When done well, brand songs can join artists' discographies with its head held high—Girls' Generation's Chocolate Love comes to mind—and when done badly, fans often like to forget they even exist. For the sake of balance, I'm giving Girls' Generation's Visual Dreams as an example of the latter. (Seriously, it's so bad.)
Fortunately, Orange Caramel's Abing Abing is one of the former examples. Released in partnership with Baskin-Robbins and their desire to push their lineup of shaved ice desserts, Abing Abing is a cheerful summer song that also fortuitously lined up with the group's bright, offbeat image, making this one of the more successful brand endorsement songs.
Considering the heat wave blanketing most of America right now, we could all go for some shaved ice. Oh no, did we just play into Baskin-Robbins' long-term marketing goals? Curse you, addictive and well-produced South Korean music!!
This is Orange Caramel week, an entire week dedicated to discussing one of the more fascinating girl groups to ever exist in K-Pop. (And, incidentally, one of my favorites.)


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So I'll admit it, this is just my opinion, and there is probably a few other statements that have ruined peoples faith, but I think this may be the worst of the litter.
"you just need to have faith"
We hear this statement in a number of situations. Perhaps someone is going through a hard time and they are struggling to see how God is allowing their friend to battle through cancer, they are dealing with a difficult breakup, or they lost their job and don't know what they are going to do. Then along comes the well-meaning Christian, he plops down beside him and says that horrible combination of words 'I know it's hard, but you just have to have faith'.
Or in another situation someone is struggling through the scriptures in seeing what seem to be some immoral acts of God, they have doubts about whether God exists…
View original post 440 more words


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Jun 24, 2019
Accommodating a special needs child in retirement planning; relying on side gigs to get you through late-in-life job losses; unexpected benefits of older and younger people working together and more on this Slice of Life episode with guests Terry Johnson and Virginia Carlson. Also, Julie and Jeri discuss how much house do you really need?
3:00 The 10,000 square foot "Dream Home"
11:00 Slice of Life interview with Terry Johnson and Virginia Carlson
We'd love to hear from you! Leave your comments on our website www.seniortopiashow.com or find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest. Our handle everywhere is @seniortopiashow
Links to things we mention on the show:


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Check back regularly here for Slate Countertops and home improvement tips and tricks to make sure you get the most out of your next Slate Countertops!
Understand just what can be expected
It is important to be knowledgeable concerning Slate Countertops in Zwingle, NC. You should not go in without understanding it, and you need to be aware of what to anticipate. You will not encounter any unexpected surprises whenever you hire Preferred Slate Countertops. The first step will be to call us at 888-356-1115 to begin your job. Within this phone call, you're going to get your questions addressed, and we're going to establish a time to start work. Our team is going to arrive at the appointed time with all the necessary materials, and can work together with you all through the process.
Preferred Slate Countertops is the one to call for all your Slate Countertops in Zwingle, Wyoming requirements
Many reasons exist to choose Preferred Slate Countertops regarding Slate Countertops in Zwingle, NC. We're the first choice if you need the best cash saving options, the finest supplies, and the top rank of client satisfaction. We fully understand your needs and objectives, and we are here to help you using our skills. Dial 888-356-1115 to communicate with Preferred Slate Countertops and go over all of your expectations when it comes to Slate Countertops in Zwingle.


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ZONAMACO 2018 - Celebrating 15 Years of Existence
Latin America's leading art fair platform, ZONAMACO hosts four events that take place annually in the month of February and September at Citibanamex in Mexico City with the goal of covering and strengthening the design, antique, and photography sectors in the country.
The 15th edition of ZONAMACO México Arte Contemporáneo and 8th edition of ZONAMACO Diseño will come back this February, gathering 170 international exhibitors and over 60,000 visitors.
Over the course of fifteen years, ZONAMACO has established itself as country's leading platform for art and design and an important meeting point for collectors, art world professionals and art enthusiasts.
This year, ZONAMACO México Arte Contemporáneo and ZONAMACO Diseño will welcome exhibitors from 27 countries across America, Europe and Asia, presenting works ranging from Modern pieces to contemporary works by both established and emerging artists, as well as furniture and design objects from the 1920s to the most recent trends.
Alongside a comprehensive exhibition program, the fair will also host a program of conferences with international guests, a section with specialized publications and editorials, and a wide program of parallel activities with exhibitions at the most outstanding galleries and museums in the country.
The Exhibitors of the New Edition of the Mexico City Fair
As part of the main section, the fair will present a selection of international leading galleries with artworks ranging from painting, graphics, sculpture, installation, and photography, to video and new media, from the most representative contemporary artists from the global scene.
Be sure not to miss booths by Blain | Southern from London and Berlin; Galleria Continua from San Gimignano, Beijing, Les Moulins and Havana; Gagosian from New York, Beverly Hills, San Francisco, London, Paris, Rome, Athens, Geneva and Hong Kong, featuring a vibrant contemporary program; Galerie Lelong from Paris, representing prominent contemporary artists and estates from the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Australia; Pace Gallery from New York, Palo Alto, Paris, London, Hong Kong and Seoul, a leading contemporary art gallery representing many of the most significant international artists and estates of the 20th and 21st centuries; Galerie Perrotin from New York, Paris, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul; and David Zwirner from New York; among others.
As part of the New Proposals, a section curated by Humberto Moro, the fair will host 26 projects representing an emerging generation. The aim of the program is to stimulate galleries to create work opportunities for young artists. The section will also feature the exhibition space titled SAMPLE, showing projects by non-established artists, in collaboration with the galleries and alternative spaces participating in this section.
The list of the exhibitors in this sector includes MCHG Maria Casado from Buenos Aires, an alternative to the rigidity of other spaces dedicated to art; Efrain Lopez from Chicago, committed to showcasing work by emerging and established visual artists that is visually engaging and conceptually captivating; Maximillian William from London, a 21st-century nomadic gallery; and Yam Gallery from San Miguel de Allende, an art project located in Central Mexico focusing on contemporary art.
As part of the ZONAMACO SUR section, the fair will invite international curators who select artists to propose individual projects under the representation of a gallery. Celebrating 10th anniversary this year, the section will be curated by Kiki Mazzucchelli with the proposal The Logic of Materials.
The list of featured artists include Sara Ivone presented by Luis Adelantado from Mexico City, Marco Maggi presented by Piero Atchugarry from Garzón, Carlos Melo presented by Emmathomas from São Paulo and Derek Fordjour from Luce in Turin.
The section dedicated to Modern Art will feature historical pieces of international artists, produced mainly during the first half of the twentieth century. Some of the exhibitors are La Cometa from Bogotá, an important space for development of art in Colombia and a reference for exhibits in Latin America; Mark Hachem from Paris, an innovative modern platform for contemporary art presenting work for artists from all over the world; and Durban Segnini from Miami, focusing on contemporary Latin American Art.
The List of Exhibitors
|LUIS ADELANTADO | Mexico City
|ARCADE | London
|PIERO ATCHUGARRY | Garzn
|bckerstrasse4 | Vienna
|BEERS LONDON | London
|HERV BIZE | Nancy
|BLAIN|SOUTHERN | London/Berlin
|BORTOLAMI | New York
|BEN BROWN | London
|LA CAJA NEGRA GALLERY | Madrid
|CARDI | Milan/London
|CARRERASMUGICA | Bilbao
|COMPANY GALLERY | New York
|CONTINUA | San Gimignano/Beijing/Les Moulins/Havana
|CURRO | Guadalajara
|DE BUCK | New York
|DITTRICH & SCHLECHTRIEM | Berlin
|DIVISION | Montreal/Toronto
|HEINRICH EHRHARDT | Madrid
|LA ESTACIîN | Chihuahua
|FIFI projects | Mexico City/Monterrey
|FL GALLERY | Milan
|HONOR FRASER | Los Angeles
|MICHAEL FUCHS | Berlin
|GAGOSIAN | New York/Beverly Hills/San Francisco/London/Paris/Rome/Athens/
|Geneva/Hong Kong
|HILARIO GALGUERA | Mexico City
|GALERêA DE ARTE MEXICANO GAM | Mexico City
|GE | Monterrey
|GLADSTONE | New York
|MARIAN GOODMAN | New York
|ENRIQUE GUERRERO | Mexico City
|LEILA HELLER GALLERY | New York/Dubai
|HOUSE OF GAGA | Mexico City/Los Angeles
|GALERIE ITALIENNE | Paris
|KARMA | New York
|PAUL KASMIN | New York
|SEAN KELLY | New York
|kurimanzutto | Mexico City
|LE LABORATOIRE | Mexico City
|LAMB ARTS | London
|LELONG | New York/Paris
|LICENCIADO | Mexico City
|LISSON | London/Milan/New York
|JAVIER LîPEZ & FER FRANCES | Madrid
|MAI 36 | Zurich
|MIXOGRAFIA | Los Angeles
|EMMA MOLINA | Monterrey
|NF | Madrid
|NICODIM GALLERY | Los Angeles
|NORDENHAKE | Stockholm/Berlin
|NOSCO | London/Marseille
|OMR | Mexico City
|PACE GALLERY | New York/Palo Alto/Paris/London/Hong Kong/Seoul
|PçRAMO | Guadalajara
|PARQUE | Mexico City
|PELAIRES | Palma de Mallorca
|PERROTIN | New York/Paris/Hong Kong/Tokyo/Seoul
|PROYECTO PARALELO | Mexico City
|PROYECTOSMONCLOVA | Mexico City
|QUETZALLI | Oaxaca
|ALMINE RECH | Paris/Brussels/London/New York
|REGEN PROJECTS | Los Angeles
|RGR+ART | Caracas/Mexico City
|LIA RUMMA | Milan/Naples
|VITO SCHNABEL | New York
|EDUARDO SECCI | Florence
|JUAN SILIî | Santander
|FILOMENA SOARES | Lisbon
|NILS ST®RK | Copenhagen
|MARC STRAUS | New York
|MICHAEL STURM | Stuttgart
|TIMOTHY TAYLOR | London
|TIRO AL BLANCO | Guadalajara
|TRAVESIA CUATRO | Madrid/Guadalajara
|VERMELHO | So Paulo
|WALDEN | Buenos Aires
|DAVID ZWIRNER | New York
|MCHG MARIA CASADO | Buenos Aires
|CELAYA BROTHERS | Mexico City
|RAFFAELLA DE CHIRICO ARTE CONTEMPORANEA | Turin
|ASYA GEISBERG | New York
|GUADALAJARA 90210 | Guadalajara
|THE HOLE | New York
|KAREN HUBER | Mexico City
|MARIANE IBRAHIM | Seattle
|EFRAIN LOPEZ | Chicago
|LTB ART / OBRA NEGRA | Mexico City
|MACHETE | Mexico City
|MAèLLE | Paris
|MAIA | Mexico City
|MASCOTA | Mexico City
|OCHI PROJECTS | Los Angeles
|GALERIE DU PALACE | Paris
|PçRAMO | Guadalajara
|PEANA | Monterrey/New York
|PROYECTO H | Madrid/Mexico City
|ROSENFELD PORCINI | London
|SERVANDO | Havana
|WEISS BERLIN | Berlin
|MAXIMILLIAN WILLIAM | London
|YAM | San Miguel de Allende
|YOUN | Montreal
|YUSTO-GINER | Marbell
|Sara Ivone | LUIS ADELANTADO | Mexico City
|Omar Rodriguez-Graham | ARRîNIZ ARTE CONTEMPORçNEO | Mexico City
|Marco Maggi | PIERO ATCHUGARRY | Garzn
|Luca Pizzani | CECILIA BRUNSON PROJECTS | London/Santiago
|Frances Trombly | EMERSON DORSCH | Miami
|Carlos Melo | EMMATHOMAS | So Paulo
|Luis Carrera-Maul | ETHRA | Mexico City
|Francisco Larios | HEART EGO | Monterrey
|Emilio Chapela | HENRIQUE FARIA | New York
|Carlos Garca Noriega | GALERêA DE ARTE MEXICANO GAM | Mexico City
|Claude Closky | LAURENT GODIN | Paris_
|Abraham Cruzvillegas | kurimanzutto | Mexico City
|Jana Sterbak | LAROCHE/JONCAS | Montreal
|Paul Kremer | LSC GALLERY | Detroit_
|Derek Fordjour | LUCE | Turin
|Ana Gallardo | MACHETE | Mexico City
|Babi Badalov | JRïME POGGI | Paris
|Martn Soto Climent | PROYECTOSMONCLOVA | Mexico City
|Alejandro Pintado | ROFA | Maryland_
|Gisela Colon | DIANE ROSENSTEIN | Los Angeles
|Maurizio Donzelli | EDUARDO SECCI | Florence
|Ernesto Garcia Sanchez | MINDY SOLOMON | Miami
|Eddie Rodolfo Aparicio | STEVE TURNER | Los Angeles
|ART OF THE WORLD | Houston
|LA COMETA | Bogot
|GALERêAS CRISTîBAL | Mexico City
|DURBAN SEGNINI | Miami
|FREITES | Caracas
|GALERêA DE ARTE MEXICANO GAM | Mexico City
|ALFREDO GINOCCHIO | Mexico City
|PABLO GOEBEL | Mexico City
|ENRIQUE GUERRERO | Mexico City
|MARK HACHEM | Paris
|HISPçNICA | Madrid/Mexico City
|GREGORY LEROY | Paris
|LGM | Bogot
|EL MUSEO | Bogot_
|GARY NADER | Miami
|ENRIQUE RIVERO LAKE | Mexico City
|RGR+ART | Caracas/Mexico City
|îSCAR ROMçN | Mexico City
|SMITH-DAVIDSON | Miami/Amsterdam
|ANçHUAC | Mexico City
|ANFORA | Mexico City
|çNGULO CERO | Mexico City
|BREUER | Mexico City
|CLVR DISEO | Mexico City
|CASA GUTIRREZ NçJERA | Quertaro/Len/Mexico City
|CENTRO | Mexico City
|PILAR CLIMENT | Mexico City
|JOEL ESCALONA | Mexico City
|ESRAWE | Mexico City
|EWE | Mexico City
|EZEQUIEL FARCA + CRISTINA GRAPPIN | Mexico City
|FELINA | Mexico City
|CARLA FERNçNDEZ | Mexico City
|PETER GLASSFORD | Guadalajara
|INDUSTRY | Los Angeles
|IVO DESIGN | Mexico City
|XANATH LAMMOGLIA | Mexico City
|FERNANDO MASTRANGELO STUDIO | New York
|ISABEL MONCADA | Guadalajara
|MOOL | Mexico City
|MUTABLE | Mexico City
|NOUVEL | Mexico City
|ODABASHIAN | Miami/Mexico City/Hong Kong
|OFFICINE SAFFI | Milan
|EDUARDO OLBS | Tepoztln
|IKER ORTIZ | Mexico City
|ORFEO QUAGLIATA | State of Mexico
|ROMOHERRERA | Mexico City
|SHELF | Mexico City
|STUDIOROCA | Mexico City
|TALAVERA DE LA REYNA | Puebla
|TANE | Mexico City
|TARACEA | Mexico City
|VA JEWELRY + ART JEWELRY | Mexico City
|XINò | Mexico City
|YAM | San Miguel de Allende
ZONAMACO Diseño
The 8th edition of ZONAMACO Diseño will present a selection of international exhibitors featuring limited edition objects as well as modern and contemporary design, ranging from collectible furniture to limited edition furniture and utilitarian and decorative objects.
The list of exhibitors includes Anfora from Mexico City, Peter Glassford from Guadalajara, Centro from Mexico City, Officine Saffi from Milan and Talavera de la Reyna from Puebla, among others.
Parallel Activities
Alongside a comprehensive exhibition program, ZONAMACO will also host a program of conferences with international guests, a section with specialized publications and editorials, and a wide program of parallel activities with exhibitions at the most outstanding galleries and museums in the country.
Some of the highlights include a group show Y cuando uno vive en el paraíso, ya uno no quiere irse tan pronto hosted by Galería Karen Huber y Héctor Madera, the exhibition Las chicas de Aviñón by Folkert de Jong hosted by Luis Adelantado and the exhibition El jardín de los sueños by Kylla Monica Piqueras Bertie hosted by Alfredo Ginocchio, among others.
The museum program will include exhibitions Réplicas. Después de la ruptura, Lorena Mal at Ex Teresa Arte Actual, Con ojos puramente plásticos y mirada universal by Enrique Echeverría at Museo de Arte Carillo Gil, and Diego rivera y la experiencia en la URSS at Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo, among others.
The Location
Practical Information
ZONAMACO México Arte Contemporáneo 2018 will take place at Centro Citibanamex, Hall D in Mexico City from February 7th until February 11th, 2018.
The opening reception will be held on Wednesday, February 7th from 4 to 9 p.m. The fair will be open to the public from 12 to 9 p.m. from on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and from 12 to 8 p.m. on Sunday. The price of the general ticket will be Mex$ 275 (≈$15), while the price for the students will be Mex$ 165 (≈$9).
For more information, visit the official website of the fair.
Featured images: ZONAMACO 2017. Photo by Mauricio Aguilar. All images courtesy of ZONAMACO.


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Clarice Taylor
Clarice Taylor, the actress and comedian best known for playing grandmothers on "The Cosby Show" and "Sesame Street," has died at the age of 93.
Clarice Taylor, the actress and comedian best known for playing grandmothers on "The Cosby Show" and "Sesame Street," has died at the age of 93.
The film Alabama's Ghost defies classification. Is it horror? Is it comedy? Is it sci-fi? Is it a musical? Regardless of the genre, one thing's
In 1998, the Dollar Coin Design Advisory Committee (DCDAC) was convened with the purpose of deciding what woman to portray on a new US "Golden"
The creators of the 2009 blaxploitation spoof film, "Black Dynamite," are taking the film to the comic book world with the first issue hitting
One thing that was really cool about the 70's was the fact that there were Black cartoons on TV. I love cartoons and every Saturday
Black Vulcan was created to add more cultural diversity to the All New Super Friends Hour.
Rickety Rocket was a segment in The Plastic Man Comedy Adventure Show, about an artificially intelligent space ship created by a group of four Black
The Hardy Boys cartoon featured the first postive Black character in a Saturday morning cartoon series, who was also the first Black male character and
Captain Caveman's first and second seasons were originally broadcast as segments on the package shows Scooby's All-Star Laff-A-Lympics and Scooby's All-Stars from 1977 to 1979.
Astrea was the first Black female superhero featured in a Saturday Morning Cartoon series, the Space Sentinels. Roman mythological figures Hercules and Mercury were joined
Chris and Christy Cross are Micro Woman and Super Stretch, a fictional, shape-shifting, husband and wife crime fighting team. They were the first Black Superhero duo
Mmmm…does every white guy need a Black man to help his ass? LOL??? Lothar is Mandrake's best friend and crime-fighting companion. Mandrake first met
The character Fat Albert first appeared in Bill Cosby's stand-up comedy routine "Buck Buck," as recorded on his 1967 album Revenge. The stories were based
In April 1972, Gold Key Comics launched a comic adaptation of the Harlem Globetrotters animated series; their first comic book appearance was
The United States postal service maybe in deep financial trouble but they continue to strike gold with their entries to The Black Heritage stamp series
Blacks in Motion Pictures provide some of the most interesting studies along with the many controversial interpretations of the roles they played on the
It was the little show that could. Beginning its ride as a local dance show on Chicago's WCIU-TV, "Soul Train" chugged its way to Los
During the 1970's, Blaxploitation moved into the horror category with a number of movies, made for Blacks, staring Blacks. One of the most important actors
The Museum of UnCut Funk has a warm spot in our hearts for Vintage Black Advertising Memorabilia and we now have a few HAMBONE pieces
Many of you may know that the Negro League was established on February 13, 1920, at a YMCA in Kansas City, Missouri. Andrew "Rube" Foster,


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Frequently Asked Questions
Mounting a solar system on a roof presents challenges which can be unique to each building. It also represents a significant investment which must be configured to ensure acceptable performance and return on investment. This means designing the system to minimize losses from shading, to reduce the wind and snow load on the structure and to choosing components which will ensure a long term reliable and safe operation. Our experts understand these issues and make the appropriate decisions.
1 – Why deploy on buildings?
Up to now, most of the solar systems have been installed in fields outside urban areas, often on agricultural land or fields where forests could grow. This is attracting increasing criticism from environmental groups. Yet roof tops and parking lots, which rarely bring revenue and instead compound the problem of urban warming due to their heat absorption, can instead provide excellent opportunities for the production of solar electricity and revenue generation.
Solar power is also ideally suited for urban and industrial environments for several reasons. It can be deployed with minimum or no visual impact, it has no moving parts to make noise or cause safety issues, and it offers reliable production well beyond its warranty period of 25 years. Also, because solar panels are designed to absorb the sun rays, they do not produce the invasive reflections of windows and shiny materials and often extend the life of rooftops by significantly reducing the direct exposure from sun rays. Clearly, solar power is the ideal non-intrusive and long lasting solution for roof top deployment.
2 – Should I buy my system or rent my roof?
A solar PV system is a major investment, which will have payback typically within 8-10 years under the Ontario FIT program. Factoring normal risks associated with the uncertainty of the revenues and with other factors which can affect the performance over a 20+ year life expectancy, this represents a financial decision to make with caution.
This is why SolPowered believes such investments may be better suited for professional companies who are dedicated to this field. To this end, SolPowered offers to finance this investment allowing building owners to obtain a risk-free lease revenue and play their part in our collective environmental responsibility towards the planet.
3 – Does solar really work in the north?
Many people associate solar energy with the south. Many northern regions offer excellent solar production potential because of their longer summer days and clear spring and fall days. Also, because of the colder climate and cleaner environment, solar panels will operate at a higher efficiency level than most hot and dusty southern locations.
4 – Which solar technologies are covered under the OPA FIT program?
All photovoltaic technologies can qualify provided that the local content requirements of the Green Energy Act of Ontario are met. Crystalline panels have been deployed for decades and deliver higher efficiency. This means that they produce more electricity for the same panel area. Alternatively, various thin film technologies have emerged in recent years offering lower cost per watt. Since they have different attributes and manufacturing techniques, these technologies can be offered in a higher variability of sizes and shapes, but can require as much as twice the area of crystalline panels to produce the same amount of electricity.
5 – How long will the process take?
In general, it will take approximately one year from the initial sign off of the lease agreement to the final project completion. This is because several contractual and legal steps must be undertaken, including the application for a FIT contract, a connection agreement and a renewable energy authorization. In addition, financing must be completed and properly attached to the project before procurement of the components can proceed and installation scheduled.
6 – Does the Solar PV system help me qualify for LEED certification?
Absolutely! A solar PV system provides energy and technology/innovation points under the LEED certification program.
7 – Can I claim Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) for the green aspect of the project?
Not under the Ontario FIT program as the tariff supplied for the electricity sold by the generator considers the purchase of any environmental benefits such as carbon credits.
8 – What happens with my roof warranty?
Where possible, SolPowered prefers to work with the original roof manufacturer in order to maintain the original roof warranty. When this is not possible or desired, SolPowered will subcontract the work to one of its partner roofing and waterproofing companies and provide a standard leak-free warranty. In addition, SolPowered insures every project against potential damages which could originate from its installation. Notwithstanding the above, the objective of every project remains to avoid or reduce penetrations to an absolute minimum.
9 – Can my roof support the weight of the panels and racking and how will it impact snow loading?
Panels weigh, on average, 2.3 lbs/ft2 (11.5 kg/m2) and the racking is made of lightweight aluminum. Depending on the tilt used and space left in between rows, the equipment weight load will slightly vary. Typically, since the tilt of the panels is kept low, the downward forces will be kept at a fraction of the snow load of 50 lbs/ft2 which roofs in the northern cities like Ottawa must comply with. In addition, upward forces can be eliminated or drastically reduced with the addition of back panels as needed.
Nevertheless, wind loads and snow loads are key design criteria of every system and are handled case by case by our qualified structural design engineers to ensure that the installation complies with the local building design code.
10 – Where are the panels produced?
The panels will usually be produced in Ontario, just like the inverters, racking and all other materials and labor. Only the base material (solar cells inside the panels) will be produced outside of the province; typically in Germany, USA, China or Japan.
11 – Is SolPowered concerned with engineering specifications for roof loads?
Absolutely; The OPA requires a stamped structural engineering report to be submitted alongside the application. Additionally, SolPowered recommends that a roof assessment be performed by a roofing expert in order to identify when the roof will need to be replaced.
12 – Can the warranty terms be extended?
Yes, although we do already provide a 25-year warranty on the panels, a 10-year warranty on the inverters and a 1-year warranty on the overall system.
13 – Does SolPowered have hard data on the lifespan and degradation rates for the equipment involved?
Yes, there is plenty of evidence of long-term durability. Because of that, all serious panel suppliers that we deal with not only offer a 25-year warranty, but also guarantee that the panels will produce at least 80% of what they produced when they were new at the end of the 25-year period.
14 – How hard is it to remove and re-install the system for roof repairs?
Solar systems almost always outlast roofing systems, even on a new roof. For this reason, they are designed in a modular way in order to minimize removal and re-assembly costs. Nonetheless, we normally recommend NOT installing a solar system if the existing roof does not have at least 6-8 years remaining on it so that the owner has fully recovered his or her investment.
15 – Can SolPowered provide references and actual data from sites that have been operational for over 1 year?
Yes, we would be happy to provide such information upon request. The data we have collected shows that installed systems have been producing as much as 10% more than predicted. This indicates that SolPowered's careful approach to production and revenue calculation is consistently accurate and avoids overly optimistic results.
16 – I need a full explanation for Option 3. Does it include all connection fees and permits?
Yes, the cost mentioned includes everything. We provide a turnkey service.
17 – How does SolPowered arrive at the cash flow numbers?
We have a detailed 30-year financial projections spreadsheet which we would be happy to share with you.
18 – What about snow and ice removal?
The panels are installed so that they seldom require maintenance for snow or ice removal.
19 – What are the annual operating costs for maintenance etc.?
Those are included in the Cash Flow analysis.
20 – Do the stated costs include HST?
No, they do not since these are reimbursable.
21 – How long can solar panels last?
Solar electric panels can produce energy for 30 years or more, and most of them come with 25-year warranties.
22 – How long before the inverter needs to be replaced?
A good quality inverter should last between 15 and 20 years. To be conservative, we budget a replacement in year 15 of the cash flow analysis.


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Dorland J. Henderson Memorial Bridge, Edwin B Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, Manahawkin, Manahawkin Bay Bridge, photography, postaday
Readers of this blog know that I am mainly a bird photographer, with infrequent landscape and flower images. Recently I went to Bonnet Island, a newly opened section of the Edwin B Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. The Dorland J. Henderson Memorial Bridge, also called Manahawkin Bay Bridge, linking mainland New Jersey to Long Beach Island goes through Bonnet Island, and it has been undergoing repairs since 2010.
The part of EBF NWR on Bonnet Island, opened since last July, looks underwhelming at this time of the year.
What one sees is mostly weeds and new plantings, all with different variations of the color ochre. There were a few birds or waterfowls, but they were all too far away for my lens, even with the 1.4 extender attached. As soon as I took a picture of the following hawk, it flew away.
There were mergansers and ducks swimming in the bay waters, but they appear tiny and blurry in all the images I took. So I turned toward the bridge itself and started photographing it from different angles.
The town of Manahawkin is a coastal community facing Long Beach Island. Manahawkin comes from a Lenape Native American word meaning "fertile land sloping into the water".


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Amazing Cat Litter, cats, clean house, gag reflex, humor, husband, life, litter, Love it/Hate it, Stay at Home Mom
So, it has been a while since I shared my thoughts on cat litter. I know you guys were just dying to hear my latest review of the cat litters I have been trying.
As I mentioned before, I tried out Amazing Cat Litter as my next choice. It actually was kind of amazing. For a week, I thought that the cats just weren't using the litter box. It says on the directions to scoop the litter and then mix the litter up so that the blue oder reducing crystals would work better. So after a week I thought I would swish the litter around a bit. To my surprise, the cats had used the litter and used it a lot. It was so good at hiding the smell, I had no idea they were even using the litter box.
Another great thing about this litter was that the cats did not track it out and even when they did, the clear crystals were not easily seen until swept up. Of course, they did look a little like broken glass which did give my husband a scare or two, and felt a bit like broken glass when stepped on with bare feet (Which I used as a signal to sweep the floor).
It did not las the whole 40 days, but it did come close. At around 30 days, we did decide that we had to clean out the litter completely. The clear crystals were now mostly milky colored and we did notice the smell again.
I know that this review seems all positive, but I did have some issues.
- Kitty Nuggets: My dog loves to eat cat poop, which the kids and I jokingly call "kitty nuggets". He will sneak into the litter box and grab a special treat and eat it if we are not looking. I do worry that the crystals are not good for a dog's digestive system. That is one of the positives of the all natural litters. I don't worry if he eats a little of the corn litter because it is probably a good source of fiber… if not fiber than at least it won't be toxic. I can't find find any warning that the litter is toxic, but it doesn't advertise that it isn't toxic either.
- A stream of pee: I usually change out the litter now that I am not working, but my husband had the pleasure of doing it this time. It was probably a good thing too. I have shared that I have developed an over-active gagging issue and my husband told me that I surely would have had an issue changing the litter if I had done it. As he told it, there was a stream of brownish-yellowish old urine at the bottom of the litter box, that he had to pour into the bag after he dumped the litter. Obviously, it smelled awful, but the visual was much worse. He said that if I got this litter again, that I could not change the litter box unless he was there. He did not want to miss out of the show I would give when I changed it. Hmmm. I usually gag when I change the litter, so the fact that he wants to see me change this litter has me a bit concerned.
So, now onto the next contenders… World's Best Cat Litter and Blue Cat Litter. It will be the battle of corn vs. walnuts. What a nail biter!


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A Message from
by Kathye Hamm
California Lutheran University is your university in Region 2. We are thankful to the congregations in the Sierra Pacific Synod and your support and partnership in this ministry.
Cal Lutheran welcomed its' largest freshman class to date along with 250 transfer students. This year's freshman class is more diverse than last year's. More than one in three first-year students are the first in their families to go to college, and more than half are of ethnicities that are traditionally underrepresented on college campuses.
In terms of staff, the university welcomed Regina D. Biddings-Muro as the new vice president for university advancement at California Lutheran University She leads a team of about 30 people dedicated to fundraising and alumni relations. She takes over as the university works to finish raising funds for a science center, its largest fundraising campaign to date for a single building.
Hazel Salazar Davidson, in her role as campus minister, will work alongside Rev. Scott Maxwell-Doherty to provide pastoral care for the whole of the university, develop faith formation programs for students, participate in interfaith engagement, and help identify and meet student needs, especially among underrepresented students. From her Lutheran understanding of Word and Sacrament ministry, Hazel will reach out to multiple faith communities to communicate Cal Lutheran's mission, identity and commitments. She joins the community having completed her Master of Divinity at Fuller Seminary in Pasadena and the TEEM program through Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, a graduate school of Cal Lutheran located in Berkeley.
The fall semester also marks the launch of two new programs, a bachelor's degree in hospitality and tourism management which prepares students for a career in any public sector that involves hospitality, including but not limited to hotel administration, tourism, food service management and customer service. And a one year Master's degree in Management, provides non-business majors with a convenient and effective way to acquire the skills they need to advance in their fields.
Follow along with us at: https://www.facebook.com/pg/callutheran/posts/ or on Social Media with #CLUconnect
Recommended Posts
Recognizing 2020 Graduates
May 19, 2020
A Message from Bishop Mark W. Holmerud
May 12, 2020
A Message from Mt Cross Ministries
May 05, 2020


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Should Teachers Be Allowed to Ban Laptops in Classrooms? I know some college teachers are starting to ban laptops from classrooms. I think that laptops should not be banned. Yes, some students surf the web or play games in class, but that doesn't mean the rest of us who use laptops responsibly should be punished for the actions of a few. In this essay I will argue that using laptops is a right that teachers should not infringe upon. For starters, many of us who have grown up with computers have very poor handwriting and sometimes our fingers get sore if we have to use a pen to write a lot.
That's why I like to take notes on my laptop, I can type much faster than I can write, and I can keep my notes organized in one place. A second argument for laptops is that students should have a right to take notes as they choose. We pay good money for our courses and we all have different learning styles, so we should be free to choose the methods that work best for us. Teachers complain that having a laptop is too much temptation for some students.
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They just can't keep themselves from browsing Facebook or playing solitaire in class, so they don't pay attention and miss out on important information or don't participate in class discussions. To this I say that college students are adults and need to be treated as adults, and that means they should take responsibility for their own education. If someone wants to chat on Facebook all day let him, it's his choice to fail, not the teacher's. In conclusion, I feel strongly that laptops should not be banned from classrooms. Laptops may be a distraction for some students, but that's not a good enough reason to ban them.


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TWS Earbuds
Jieli TWS Earbuds
Airoha TWS Earbuds
Realtek TWS Earbuds
Pixart TWS Earbuds
Smart AI Speaker
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What is Digital CCTV?
Recent advances in technology over the past couple of years have revolutionized the security sector and, in particular, the methods available to monitor movement and access within a specific area. Not only affordable by big businesses, but digital CCTV is also now available to the open market due to significant reductions in price and availability.
Digital CCTV
Digital CCTV comprises a PC based, multi-channel video surveillance system that utilizes the most advanced compression technologies to bring you the highest picture quality and video performance. Compared to analog CCTV, a far greater number of CCTV cameras can be connected to your network and viewed, all through a single PC monitor.
Completely upgradeable, your network can be expanded quickly and easily by simply installing additional cameras. In addition, you are not restricted to the type of camera you wish to install as the CCTV software is able to support all cameras within our product range.
If you already have an analog CCTV system installed at your site, you may only require a simple upgrade of some of the elements on your network in order to adapt to a digital CCTV system.
The picture quality of a digital CCTV system is far superior to that of an analog system and has been used successfully in the prosecution of thieves, vandals, and trespassers through the UK's criminal justice system. All digital CCTV systems supplied by CCTV Surveillance Ltd are fully compliant with the UK Police Requirements.
Digital Video Recorders
The CCTV footage generated by your camera network is recorded on a dedicated digital video recorder, which can be located either onsite or offsite. Triggered by motion detectors or movement on a CCTV camera, the DVR only records footage of activity so no "dead time" is unnecessarily stored. Sophisticated buffering means that the DVR also records events of up to 5 minutes previous to the trigger.
A digital video recorder is able to achieve digital storage multiplexing across up to 16 channels in one standalone box so all CCTV footage from your site can be recorded on a single unit.
What is Frames Per Second?
The frames per second (fps) relates to how many pictures the DVR will record in a second. Real-time recording is about 30 fps on each camera. To calculate the fps per camera take the total fps in the system and divide it by the number of video inputs.
For example, a 60 fps digital video recorder with 4 video inputs would result in about 15 fps per camera. The technology has finally gotten to the point now where real-time recording is affordable. If you are recording cash registers or something similar then you should definitely invest in real time recording.
How Does Digital CCTV Work?
Digital CCTV is a relatively new technology that has proclaimed itself to be the next level in security monitoring systems. Recent advances in technology over the past couple of years has made digital CCTV available and affordable for virtually everyone to implement on their premises.
Versatile in design, digital CCTV operates across a standard Ethernet, so no extra wiring is required in the majority of situations. Once installed on your premises, your digital CCTV network can be added to quickly and easily simply by installing new CCTV cameras and adding these to your CCTV software package.
Once your network of CCTV cameras has been installed on your site, you are able to analyze both live and historic event-based video clips through your PC monitor using the CCTV software supplied with your system.
Digital CCTV is unique in that it will only record images when movement is detected. This ultimately means that you will only have CCTV footage of activity: when something occurs across the camera's field of view.
The quality of the footage generated by your digital CCTV cameras means that evidence quality images are generated, which can be used in a court of law to prosecute perpetrators. Analog CCTV systems invariably are unable to do this.
The integration capabilities of digital CCTV mean that in addition to working extremely well as a standalone security system, it can also be connected to other installed security equipment.
Why Buy a Wireless Charger?
Picture this: You just tapped the dismiss icon on your smartphone after it alerted you that the battery was at 10 percent.
It's late and dark and you can't find your charger. After your search ends, you fumble to plug the adapter into your device. You put the cord in upside down, flip it over and try again. Wait a minute, you were right the first time after all and it wasn't upside down. It's an annoying process that we've all been through.
Wireless chargers are a solution of easy and affordable to this minor, but we are still incredibly frustrated by such common experience. With a wireless charging pad, you can charge your smartphone conveniently. It is much easier to just plop your phone down on a wireless charger rather than fumbling with cords. Since charging pads are energy efficient, you can keep them plugged in and not have to worry about losing your cord. They come in all sorts of different colors, shapes and sizes allowing you to choose one that matches not only your phone but your personality as well. Wireless chargers save your time and free up some space by eliminating "rat's nests" of cords on or around your desk. They are inconspicuous and powerful (pun unintended) devices. They will certainly make your life much easier if you chose to invest.
How does wireless charger work?
The qi wireless charger can charge for all smart cellphone. It consist of two parts, the receiver and the transmitter.
Current flowing within the receiver coils is converted into direct current (DC) by the receiver circuit, thus charging the battery of the device.
The magnetic field generates cut tent within the receiver coil of the device.
Alternating current flowing within the transmitter coil creates a magnetic filed which extends to the receiver coil (when within a specified distance.
Mains voltage is converted into high frequency alternating current (AC).
The alternating current is sent to the transmitter coil by the transmitter circuit.
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Hey everyone,
I had a course named "Calculabilty and Complexity" last year and I implemented a Turing
Machine simulator using Pharo just to see how easy/hard it would be (it was quite easy 🙂 ).
I also wrote a little thing on medium about it [1] (I just took half an hour to review it and
I thought it was time to publish it).
Just announcing it in case it case someone need/is interested by this.
There is also a github repository for the source code [2].
[1]: https://medium.com/@juliendelplanque/a-turing-machine-simulator-written-in-pharo-fda74e1a705b#.mo3s1a1g1
[2]: https://github.com/juliendelplanque/turing-machine


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Barberschere/Modellierschere Apollo
Article details
Modeling scissors 7.5 "
with black Titan coating
- It is suitable for all cutting techniques (Allrounder),
- but especially for dry hair or beard cuts.
- 38 teeth bent above and in W-shape provide a section without squeaking. The hair can slide away nicely.
Technical details:
- With the elaborately chiseled knurled screw, one-handed fine adjustment is possible at lightning speed.
- The thumb-eye is slightly exposed to the rear to provide even greater comfort without bruises.
- It allows fatigue-free working thanks to the ergonomic handles (extra large eyes).
- Comfortable edition for index and middle finger.
- With the fixed finger rest, the scissors are ideal for large fingers and provide better grip.
- A high-impact ball bearing makes the scissors smooth and ensures both a butter-soft cut, as well as gentle gliding through the hair.
- 100% hand made.
- Our high-performance tool steel, Made in Germany, undergoes additional, complex cleaning processes during production, which guarantee the highest possible degree of purity.
- The resulting very high material density guarantees the above-average service life of the cutting edges of all of our hair scissors.
- The cobalt content gives the steel extra wear resistance without, however, reducing the necessary elasticity of the steel.
- The Titan coating is high-gloss black, anti-allergenic and scratch-resistant, goes directly to the cutting edge, which thus receives additional hardness and significantly increases the cutting capacity.
- Apollo modeling scissors in 7.5 inches
- Tool for adjusting the screw
- LED illuminated case in black leather look (can accommodate two hair scissors up to 8.5 ")
edge :
cutting techniques:


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Nashrul Quran, the world's second largest Quran printing complex, built at a cost of RM60 million, officially began its printing and binding operations in Malaysia on Tuesday.
Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi who officiated at the ceremony, said Nashrul Quran was built starting last year not to compete with other Quran-printing countries but was Malaysia's contribution to upholding and propagating the teachings of the Islamic holy book to the world.
"We respect the biggest (Quran) printing center in Madinah but as a nation that subscribes to the principles of wasatiyyah (moderation), Malaysia too wants to contribute to the effort through its own bound volumes of the Quran."
"This effort is made not for elation or conceit but to place Malaysia as a Quran-printing landmark as occurring in the Middle East and other countries."
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Home Minister, said this when launching the National-Level Wakaf Al-Quran 2017 and the operations of Nasyrul Quran.


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|This article is about the Telltale Games director/cinematographer. You may be looking for the crew member.
Dennis Lenart is a former director and cinematographer at Telltale Games. He worked as a cinematic artist on The Walking Dead: Season One, and directed "All That Remains" and "No Going Back" of Season Two.
Other works
Lenart has worked on a number of other Telltale productions, including:
- Back to the Future: The Game
- Sam & Max Series
- The Wolf Among Us
- In 2017, Dennis Lenart left Telltale Games for a design director job with Ubisoft.
Community content is available under CC-BY-SA unless otherwise noted.


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Table of Contents
- The Importance of Setting up a Virtual Office
- Variety of Virtual Office Services Available
- Setting up a Virtual Office
- Popular Virtual Office Providers
- Questions to Ask before Setting up a Virtual Office
Manufacturers based outside USA, especially in countries like China and India, find it difficult to establish credibility and reliability without having a physical presence in the US. As a result, they risk losing business orders, with no fault of their own. This need to present a professional and experienced brand image to a global audience has given rise to 'virtual offices', which offer a virtual address and phone number to firms struggling to make their presence felt on the global map.
>> Click here to see the top rated virtual office company for 2020
For a fixed fee, services like a business mailing address, local telephone number, call answering, mail receiving, fax, conference room facilities, dedicated live business assistants, personalized voice mail and so much more is on offer. Let's attempt to understand how these services can help you and your business grow, and how you must go about availing them.
The Importance of Setting up a Virtual Office
Before jumping in, let's take moment to understand the various ways in which your business can benefit by setting up a virtual mailing address and telephone number in the US.
Establishes Credibility
Cultivating a professional business 'image' with multiple locations is a crucial aspect of establishing credibility and trust for your business. Prospective clients and customers in the USA that are interested in your products and services might be wary of doing business without a local physical address. A virtual office removes this doubt and skepticism by offering local contact information.
Expands Scope of Business
Lack of on-ground business operations at a location can prove to be a deal-breaker for many prospective business partners. However, a virtual office address and telephone number removes this bias and helps you and your business establish new global partnerships with ease. This can really help your business evolve to its potential and drive growth.
Cuts Down on Expenses
Owning or renting an actual office space in the USA, especially in the urban centers, comes at a hefty price. Having a virtual office address and phone number, however, comes at a fraction of the cost. What's more, you can also avail additional services like mail and call receiving in order to provide legitimacy to your operations at a virtual location of your choosing.
Variety of Virtual Office Services Available
Another thing you need to be aware of is the kind of virtual services on offer. Largely, three major virtual business services are available:
Virtual Address
A virtual business mailing address of your liking can be chosen to give your business a business location in USA. Most organizations that provide this service also offer digital mailing options as well, wherein digital copies of all the mails you receive on the chosen address are sent to you. You can further choose to reply to them, discard them, deposit cheques, pay bills etc. A fixed local address provides legitimacy, continuity and credibility to your business
Virtual Telephone Number
A local area code business number is provided to you in order to help local customers reach you easily. If you expect frequent orders, you can route expected calls to a variety of phone numbers as well. In addition to making telephonic conversations convenient, virtual telephone numbers also usually offer discounted rates as the calls are placed over the internet.
Virtual Business Office
In addition to a virtual address and phone number, some companies also offer services like a live receptionist to answer calls instantly, virtual assistants, conference facilities, order placement, fax and so much more. These services have become extremely popular with businesses entering new markets such as the US, for they are provided with end-to-end virtual office solutions in one place.
It is important to note that organizations providing just a virtual address or telephone number are as popular as those that offer the entire package.
Setting up a Virtual Office
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you set up your virtual office in the United States of America:
Finalize Your Requirements and Budget
First and foremost, you need to ask yourself what your business needs are. Will you be getting a lot of mail at the address, or will a lot of customers be calling for queries? Would a live receptionist add an extra layer of professionalism, or would it be a wasteful expenditure? Once you know exactly what features and services you require, zero in on a monthly budget. Standalone services of only a virtual address or telephone number begin for as low as $5 per month. If, however, you go for more features, the monthly cost also goes up.
Register Your Virtual Address
Probably the most important component of your virtual office is the virtual address you choose. Using services like NYMail.com or iPostal1 or USA Corporate Services Inc., you can register a professional business address on some of the most popular streets in the biggest cities in USA. Remember, you need not have an actual physical store or presence at the address of your choice.
Once your virtual address has been booked, all your business mail will be collected at the same and forwarded to you (usually in a digital format). Registering and obtaining a virtual address in USA is easy, and you must have all your business details and communication information handy while doing the same.
Sync Your Business Information
Although your virtual US address will be visible to customers and business partners on your website, you need to ensure that any activity that happens at the address is notified to your actual business. Hence, setting up your business information, like address, telephone number, email and payment gateways to ensure a smooth flow of services is important. Most organizations that offer a virtual address forward all business mail (orders, brochures, magazines, queries, payments, bills, etc.) in a digital format to a registered email and also have the functionality to forward, recycle, shred, pay a bill or deposit a cheque.
Put in Place a Virtual Phone Number
Selecting a virtual business phone number to enable calls and queries is the next important step to complete your US-based virtual office. You can record a customized telephonic greeting, forward calls to dedicated departments or employees, or even operate a local toll-free number to ensure a smooth order booking. Organizations like CallHippo, Sonetel and eVoice help you manage local virtual numbers at attractive rates and tariffs. In addition to providing features like call forwarding, voice responses and receptionist, other features like call recording, order registration and voicemail is also offered by most companies.
Customize Your Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants are an optional, but attractive addition to your virtual office. Specialized firms offering virtual assistants on flexible price models are available in the market. Virtual assistants can be easily customized and trained according to the needs of your business. Ideally, you should seek a bilingual, intelligent and intuitive virtual assistant that can follow instructions, understand rules and follow procedures to the 'T'. If you want them to undertake specific tasks, you will have to list out comprehensive rules for them to follow as well. Virtual assistants are a great way to cut back on costs while increasing efficiency and productivity.
Conduct a Dry Run
After everything has been set, make sure you conduct a dry run to assess any glitches your customers might face. Call from a local number and interact with the receptionist or the virtual assistant to place an order, or mail a package to your virtual address to see how its contents reach you. You need to be well-versed with the process of managing a virtual office and also pre-emptively solve any challenges, technical or otherwise, your customers might encounter.
Popular Virtual Office Providers
Opus Virtual Offices
Opus Virtual Offices offers a wide range of services to help you establish and manage your virtual coordinates. Cost-effective, reputable and trustworthy, Opus has built a name for itself by offering virtual offices at more than 500 locations in USA. For $99 per month, Opus offers a business mailing address, a business phone number, a live receptionist available between 8.30 am to 5.30 pm from Monday to Friday (PST), two voicemails, call forwarding and other services like voicemail to email, faxes to email, etc. You can also avail addition features like additional voicemail or extensions ($25 per month) and callout ($10 per month) if your budget allows.
A leading name in the market, Opus is ideal for small businesses, home-based businesses, start-ups and one-employee organizations. It has also been recognized for providing quality services at an affordable fee, alongside a robust customer services support.
DaVinci Virtual
DaVinci Virtual offers more than 1,500 business locations all over the world as your potential business address. In a short span of time, DaVinci has proven itself to be an effective, innovative and competitive player in the virtual offices domain.
Other than providing you with a virtual business address DaVinci offers mail forwarding services, virtual telephone number, answering services, long distance calling, appointment scheduling and what not! Although most of these services are chargeable depending on the level of their usage, DaVinci more than makes up for it by offering you the best-in-class services. Their virtual assistant services have also been recognized to be outstanding. What you must know is that the first 6 months with DaVinci are contractually bound, and then the month-to-month plan is activated.
However, if all you want is a virtual address with no frills, iPostal1 and Earth Class Mail are some alternatives to be explored.
On the other hand, if you are looking to obtain only a virtual telephone number, organization like Grasshopper, CallHippo, and Sonotel can be suitable options to be considered.
Questions to Ask before Setting up a Virtual Office
Now that you are aware of how virtual offices are set up, and which organizations you can go for, there are a few things you should be mindful of:
Host Location
Knowing where your virtual office vendor is hosting its operations from is crucial. Ideally, renowned hosting services like (Amazon or Teraco) should be considered, for they are known to provide premium hosting services. Do enquire about the same and understand how robust the host providers are.
Enhanced Support
You can expect a healthy growth in your global business once you set up your virtual office. Hence, the pertinent question is, will the virtual office provider be able to keep up with your growth trajectory? If your orders increase, or customer queries go up, will the provider be able to handle the influx? Make sure you know the answer to these questions before proceeding.
Data Security
How safe is the information hosted by the virtual office provider? What sort of tools and technologies do they have in place to ensure data protection and security? Since business information is sensitive, you should have unambiguous and definitive answers to these questions.
Customer Service
How prompt and efficient is the customer service? If, at any time, your service provider is unable to offer you the benefits of mailing address or telephone number, or if their services are interrupted, how quickly will they be restored? How will your grievances be addressed?
There you have it! You now know the most important and basic information regarding setting up a virtual business address and telephone number in USA. Thousands of businesses all over the world are making the most of these services and rapidly expanding their global operations. While it might be a tad bit intimidating to subscribe and pay for a service that you do not have a complete knowledge of, be assured that you will be able to use it efficiently in no time. Leave the doubts and scepticism behind, and confidently step into a new business world that is dictated by technology, innovation and collaboration, and be sure of reaping the rewards that come with it.