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Translated from Le Drapeau Rouge No. 57, June-July 2005.
In 1984, while a group of communist organizations dared to recognize the loss of socialist China and decided to resist the treason and demoralization of the communist movement by creating the Revolutionary Internationalist Movement(RIM), capitalism was apparently triumphing. Its ideologists even proclaimed the "death of communism" and even the "end of history", when the USSR and the Berlin Wall both collapsed. Twenty years later, imperialism is hopelessly trying – by the repressive and devastating force of its armies – to maintain an unjust world and the dictatorship of the rich causing tremendous misery worldwide. This brings the masses of all continents, from Bolivia to Iraq as well as Palestine, Afghanistan, Nepal, India or the Philippines, to be more and more angry, day after day.
By creating the RIM 20 years ago, these revolutionaries built the foundations for the renewal of communism in its most revolutionary understanding – that is Marxism-Leninism-Maoism. This renewal was made possible by directly attacking the revisionist drifting of many "Marxist-Leninist" organizations which had actually given up on revolution. The revolutionaries who gathered around RIM condemned the return to capitalism in the former socialist countries and began to make a serious assessment of the revolutionary experience in China and the USSR. This Movement – which is a truly living body- constantly grew rich and still continues to progress, thanks to the two-line struggle and political discussions which animate it. The RIM experienced its most important developments through new experiments of revolutionary action and people's war which were initiated during the last few years and saw spectacular progress, especially in both Nepal and South Asia.
People's War in Peru and Marxism-Leninism-Maoism
Among the events which played a decisive role in the Maoist revival certainly was the launching of the people's war by the Communist Party of Peru in May 1980. The CPP has been the first organization to refer to Maoism as a new stage of Marxism-Leninism. This Party and the armed struggle it waged – without any external material or military support – in a country that is among the poorest in Latin America became a model of resistance and courage from the masses. The people's war in Peru initiated an important thought on Mao's contribution to the revolutionary strategy and brought a new leap as to the crucial role of people's war in preparation for world revolution.
The development and the progression of people's war in Peru played unimportant role in the recognition in 1993 by the RIM of Marxism-Leninism-Maoism as "the ideology of the proletariat synthesized and developed to new stages." RIM's declaration entitled Long Live Marxism-Leninism-Maoism! that was issued on December 26, 1993 thus summarized the reasons for upholding Maoism:
"Mao Zedong elaborated many theses on a whole series of vital questions of revolution. But Maoism is not just the sum total of Mao's great contributions. It is the comprehensive and all-round development of Marxism-Leninism to a new and higher stage. Marxism-Leninism-Maoism is an integral whole; it is the ideology of the proletariat synthesized and developed to new stages, from Marxism to Marxism-Leninism to Marxism-Leninism-Maoism, by Karl Marx, V.I. Lenin and Mao Zedong, on the basis of the experience of the proletariat and mankind in class struggle, the struggle for production and scientific experiment. It is the invincible weapon which enables the proletariat to understand the world and change it through revolution. Marxism-Leninism-Maoism is a universally applicable, living and scientific ideology, constantly developing and being further enriched through its application in making revolution as well as through the advance of human knowledge generally. Marxism-Leninism-Maoism is the enemy of all forms of revisionism and dogmatism. It is all-powerful because it is true."
In Canada, the Action Socialiste group, which dissolved to integrate the Revolutionary Communist Party (Organizing Committees) in November 2000, had itself adopted Maoism in 1994, inspired by the experience and discussions of the Communist Party of Peru and RIM.
Rectification movement and progression of the people's war in the Philippines
The discussions that happened following the advances of the revolution in Peru and the important critique of revisionism made by the Maoists (including the RIM) certainly contributed to the victory of the Second Great Rectification Movement launched by the Communist Party of the Philippines in 1992. This Party, which had launched the people's war in 1969, had faced important setbacks in the eighties. It was experiencing an important two-line struggle, opposing mainly those who were supporting a revisionist path that pushed towards abandoning the protracted people's war strategy and legalizing the Party, and the revolutionaries who wanted to better grasp and apply the Maoist revolutionary principles.
Whereas the guerrilla fronts and base areas had practically disappeared by the mid-Eighties, the Maoist rectification movement allowed the revival of the Communist Party of the Philippines. This revival was based on the need for developing not only military activity on guerrilla fronts, but also the political and ideological work of building a people's revolutionary power in the zones under its influence. On March 29, 2005, on the occasion of the 36thanniversary of the New People's Army (NPA), the Central Committee of the CP of the Philippines reaffirmed the essential role played by the rectification movement in the important advances carried out in the last few years.
Incidentally, it invited the NPA to raise the strategic defensive to higher level by raising the number of guerrilla fronts from 130 to 140 in the coming year. With a military and political presence in more than 70 of the country's provinces, encompassing some 800 municipalities and 9,000 villages, the New People's Army and the CP of the Philippines are considered today as being "the greatest internal security threat to the country", according to Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz. He expressed this last April, when demanding that United States enable him to negotiate a peace agreement with Filipino Islamic "terrorists" who used to serve as a pretext for US Army to redeploy its presence in the country.
Revolution on the road in Nepal
Largely inspired too by the people's war in Peru (at some point, more than 10,000 people demonstrated in the streets of Kathmandu in 1993 in support of Chairman Gonzalo and the Communist Party of Peru!), the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) is also basing itself on Maoism. In February 1996, it announced the launching of the people's war. In less than10 years, this Party and the People's Liberation Army it leads became the armed and political tool of a whole people that looks for freedom and dignity and want to put an end to all forms of oppression: patriarchal, caste, religion, nationality and property ones, cleverly maintained by feudal monarchy.
By establishing base areas free from feudalism and landowners and by creating new organs of people's political power – today this new power exists in most of the country except the Kathmandu Valley – the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) showed the soundness of the Maoist ideology and strategy on which it relies. This guerrilla, made up at the beginning of a few hundred members, began its activity nine years ago with only one rifle and one handgun and nevertheless developed a genuine People's Liberation Army made up of thousands of men and women, who today controls the vast majority of the country and is in the process of driving out an army and police machine of more than120,000 men.
All that would have been impossible without a correct revolutionary strategy, thanks to Maoism. According to Maoist principles, for a revolution to success, it requires the support and participation of the masses, along with a party and a revolutionary army able to tackle and destroy the power of the reactionary classes. The revolution becomes possible when the people themselves contribute and take part, by the force of its best elements, the women and men most determined to overcome oppression and drive out the tyrants and reactionaries with revolution.
Maoist revival in Afghanistan, India and South Asia
The revolution today shaking Nepal has posed new conditions and urgent challenges to Maoists, particularly in oppressed countries. This first challenge was certainly the need to unify the forces and currents supporting Maoism, in order to consolidate the revolutionary camp.
The attacks and armed offensive by US imperialism in various parts of the world, as well as the resistance it meets, create new challenges and opportunities for the revolutionary forces. Their capacity to unleash the fury of the masses as a mighty force for the revolution is at the heart of developments to come.
In 2002, Maoists in Turkey unified under the banner of the MKP, the Maoist Communist Party [Turkey and North Kurdistan], and along with the People's Liberation Army, they raised the flag of people's war by waging armed actions in zones under their influence. A year and a half later, the Afghan Maoists concluded their own unification process, by founding the Communist Party(Maoist) of Afghanistan at the end of a historical congress held in May2004.
This new Party is the fruit of a process started after the military invasion of Afghanistan by US imperialism and its allies in 2002, thus obliging Maoist forces to arm themselves with a program and a clear political line. Initiated by the Communist Party of Afghanistan and the Struggle Organization for the Liberation of Afghanistan (Peykar), the discussions then continued with another group called Revolutionary Unity of Workers of Afghanistan. The call they then issued to all the country's MLM forces received a cordial answer. The base of unity of the new Party was formed around the political and ideological principles of MLM, with the New Democracy Revolution as a minimum program and preparing the transition towards the maximum program, socialist revolution and the final goal of communism. The new Party also posed as a base of unity adhesion to the strategy of protracted people's war and the preparation of its launching being the central task of the day.
At its founding congress, participants also put emphasis on internationalism and the struggle within the RIM, in order to build a Communist International of a new type. RIM besides played an important role in the process of unification of Maoist forces in Afghanistan. In 2003, it had called for the holding of a Joint Regional Conference of MLM Parties and Organizations of Iran and Afghanistan, which allowed important steps forward toward unity of the whole MLM movement at the regional level. The contribution of the Communist Party of Iran (MLM) to this process was also underlined by the new Afghan Party.
In September 2004, it was the Maoist revolutionaries from India who achieved unity by creating the new Communist Party of India (Maoist). In this country -the second most populated in the world after China – this event constitutes a major advance for the revolutionary forces and the development of people's war in South Asia. Like returning a negative echo to this new revolutionary breakthrough, the US government officially added the new Communist Party of India (Maoist) on its Other Selected Terrorist Organizations (OSTO) List, in May 2005.
South Asia, with the Maoists of Nepal and India as its vanguard, seems the most active revolutionary zone today at the international level. The guerrilla zones and guerrilla bases stretching from Nepal to the North-East of India is the theatre of a new coordination between revolutionary Maoists, based on their common analysis and the need for fighting in a unified way against reactionary feudal, capitalist and bureaucratic classes. All this at a time when Maoist actions become extensive in western Bangladesh and when a new Maoist Party has been created in Bhutan.
The Maoist challenge: concentrating the anger of the masses towards attacking bourgeois power
Today, revolutionaries, sympathizers and all groups and organizations who want to resist and fight in a consequent way against the imperialist domination on the world, need to be aware of victories and important advances of Maoism towards revolution and its essential struggle against imperialism. Its goal is to give "all power to the masses". Inspired by the Nepalese example as by that of Peru, Maoist forces are progressing in Ecuador, Brazil and Colombia, where support campaigns for the Nepalese revolution were recently organized.
The soundness of the Maoist strategy was and still is incarnated today in the important progress of people's war in oppressed countries, where as in Nepal the oppressed masses never have been so close of seizing power. It is also incarnated in the new breath which it gave to the Maoist movements in the imperialist countries.
In Europe, Maoists are more and more active, notably in Germany, Turkey, France, Italy and the UK. In the United States, the Revolutionary Communist Party, USA – one of the founding parties of RIM – continues the struggle to develop revolution in the most powerful imperialist country in the world.
In Canada, Maoism lit the necessary spark for organizations and individuals to organize a conference in 2000 which carried out the creation of the Revolutionary Communist Party (Organizing Committees). In fact, Maoism enabled them to elaborate a program, a strategy, and an action plan for revolution in Canada – a strategy which largely remains to be defined within the reality of class struggle inside the country, but whose principles are firmly anchored in Marxism-Leninism-Maoism. Those comrades – that we fully support! – who adhere to MLM understood, as underlined in an article from the most recent edition ofA World to Win magazine, that "without the degeneration and destruction of the reactionary armed forces, as the backbone of the enemy's state power, revolution is impossible in any country."
To fight bourgeois power by concentrating the anger of the masses into a party, an army, a united front-in a word, to merge Marxism-Leninism-Maoism with the new rising wave of revolution and to manage to concentrate the anger of the masses towards attacking bourgeois power: this is the tremendous challenge of the Maoists and the Revolutionary Internationalist Movement (RIM). In front of the courage of the Maoists and the broad masses which fight against imperialism and reaction in Nepal, the Philippines, Iraq, Peru, in Palestine, India or Turkey, we have the responsibility to take on this great challenge and to invite all revolutionaries to work towards it!


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The British military has been involved in selecting the targets of the United States' secret drone campaign, new documents obtained by the U.K.-based rights group Reprieve revealed Sunday.
According to the documents, personnel at U.K. bases leased to the U.S. military play a role in drawing up the "kill list" for the ongoing drone assassinations in countries such as Yemen, Somalia, Pakistan, and others.
"These documents are the strongest evidence yet that the U.S. may be conducting its illegal, secret drone war from bases on British soil," said Reprieve staff attorney Jennifer Gibson. "The U.K. government now needs to come clean on what role the bases we lease to the U.S. are playing in drawing up secretive U.S. assassination lists—and what exactly the U.K.'s own involvement in these lists is."
While U.K. politicians have said that the U.S. is not operating drones from British bases, they have refused to answer questions about what role the U.K. government plays in selecting targets for drone assassination.
"Simply to say that drones are not flown from the U.K. is missing the point, if it is personnel on British soil that are at the top of the so-called 'kill chain' and British agencies who are feeding targets into those lists," Gibson added. "The U.S. drone program, conducted in the shadows, has killed hundreds of civilians without any accountability. The British government has questions to answer over its own involvement in this secret war and how much responsibility it bears for those deaths."
Reprieve details how job advertisements offer clues to the British military's role in the ongoing drone campaigns:
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Job adverts and CVs identified from publicly-available sources show that the U.S. Air Force has employed a "MQ-9 REAPER [drone] ISR Mission Intelligence Coordinator" at RAF Molesworth in Cambridgeshire; while a Private Military Contractor (PMC) has advertised for an "All Source Analyst – Targeting" to work at the same base.
RAF Molesworth is leased to the U.S., but the U.K. government has refused to answer questions on whether it plays a role in the covert drone campaign—which carries out missile strikes outside of warzones with minimal accountability.
[...] A third job advert from contractor Leidos for someone to provide "FMV [full motion video] intelligence analysis in support of USAFRICOM…and Special Operations Command Africa," also at Molesworth, indicates that the base may be involved in supporting illegal covert drone strikes in countries such as Somalia, where neither the U.S. nor the U.K. is publicly at war. Along with the CIA, U.S. Special Operations Command is the main player in the drone program.
These latest revelations follow The Intercept's exposé last month of the inner workings of the NSA's largest base in the U.K., which offered concrete evidence of the British government's complicity in the U.S. targeted drone assassination campaign.
"One document states that targets at Yemeni internet cafes are 'tasked by several target offices at NSA and GCHQ,'" observes Reprieve. "The document's header shows it was copied to the U.K., meaning that the British government must have already been aware of the role its intelligence and bases were playing."
"British forces are currently involved in seven different theaters and only one of these has had any democratic scrutiny," Stop the War Coalition deputy chair Chris Nineham told the U.K.'s Morning Star, warning of "an escalating series of foreign interventions."

subset: commoncrawl


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Try The Discovery Course-Bargain Price
If you've never been to a Wine Tasting before-our Discovery Event is the course for you! To tempt you further we've got this great offer on our September dates. If you use the code 25NWS at checkout you'll get tickets for only £17.25pp instead of the usual £23!
What To Expect on the Night
But Don't Delay!
These tickets are going fast! So if you've always wanted to take the plunge-now's the time! Don't miss out save £5.75 but only for these two September events: 5th. and 26th. ONLY.
Tuesday 5/09/2017 Castlefield Hotel, Manchester
Tuesday 26/09/2017 Castlefield Hotel, Manchester
I bought the Discovery course as a gift for my Dad but I also bought a ticket for myself - a complete newbie to wine.
The structure of the session was excellent, with a fun activity to start with and then the tasting to follow. It had a nice informal feel.John was extremely knowledgeable and packed the session full of interesting facts and tips. He was perfect for a complete beginner or a seasoned wine drinker. He provided plenty of resources, some of which I wish I looked at more.
As a cheese lover, this was a perfect bridge to get into wine for me.
I thoroughly recommend this to anybody. I loved it!


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2019 HIR Officers
Larkin Correia
REALTOR® Salesperson, Iokua Residential Services – Hilo
C. Kapono Pa
REALTOR® Salesperson, Savio Realty Ltd.
Dennis Yates
REALTOR® Salesperson, KW Kaua'i
Julie Keller
REALTOR® Broker,
Hawai'i Life Real Estate Brokers
Deborah Au
REALTOR® Broker,
MacArthur | Sotheby's International Realty
Catherine Fedak
REALTOR® Salesperson, Hilo Bay Realty
2019 HIR Officers
Kevin Aoki
REALTOR® Broker/Owner, Property Professionals Hawai'i
Kevin E. Lewis
REALTOR® Broker, Clark Realty LLC – Hilo
Mary Begier
REALTOR® Broker/Owner, Mary Begier Realty
Meg Saunders
REALTOR® Broker, Elite Pacific Properties
Jade Halama
REALTOR® Salesperson, Elite Pacific Properties
Misti Tyrin
REALTOR® Broker, Iokua Residential Services – Hilo
Gloria Kobayashi
REALTOR® Broker, Ray Kobayashi Jr. REALTOR®
2019 HIR Committees
Our committee members are passionate about the organization, effectively for the benefit of our REALTOR® members, Business Partners-Affiliates, and the community. We encourage all of our members -REALTORS® and Business Partners-Affiliates- to actively participate in our local board by volunteering your time and efforts to help your local Association achieve its goals and take things to a HIgheR level! Please consider joining at least one committee for the year.
- Budget & Finance Committee:
Building Task Force
- Caravan Committee
- Community Outreach Committee:
Fair Housing Sub-Committee
Home Expo Task Force
- Executive Committee
Nominations Task Force
Personnel Task Force
Strategic Planning Task Force
- Grievance Committee
- Member Services Committee
Programs & Networking Sub-Committee
REALTOR® of the Year Task Force
- Professional Development & Education Committee
Principal Brokers Sub-Committee
Technology Education & Training Sub-Committee
- Professional Standards & Arbitration Committee
Ombudsman Services


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As parents, caregivers and loved ones, we all want to find a cure for our children who are living with type 1 diabetes. Fred is committed to regularly informing Quebec families about research on the latest technologies available for diabetes management. Please note that Fred does not endorse or recommend any product. Only your diabetes healthcare team can provide you with the best professional advice. But when we come across some good news, we can't help but share it with you!
For more details on this new technology now available, visit the following website: http://www.medtronic.com/ca-en/index.html
Fred, with you everyday until a cure is found.


text: I haven't reached this pivotal moment in my WIP yet, but due to the actions that occur, it is a scene that MIGHT be better expressed by using a POV character that hasn't been used before (it is a chase). Would using a POV character for ONE scene/chapter in a story be a wise decision, or should I stick with an established POV character for that scene/chapter? (I'm leaning towards the latter option at the moment.) My concerns are more for the reader, in that it may be a sudden and unexpected switch, that may not be appreciated. Anyone know of any one section POV moments? All of the prologues in A Song of Fire and Ice are those. Can't seem to remember any other examples at the moment.


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EventsXD: Robust conference app
Modern technology has made running an event easier with apps like EventsXD, which enable you to:
Promote your event: Get the word out with a personal event website (no coding required) complete with conference information, maps, social sharing links, contact-the-organizer forms, speaker profiles, sessions, sponsor page and more.
Sell tickets, check in attendees: Pay a small percentage of each ticket to have EventsXD handle all the ticket sales, and the check-in list is automatically created for you.
Personalize agendas for attendees: Create a default agenda, or let attendees build their own customized agendas within the mobile app with the help of session filters that let the attendees better decide what sessions will work well for them.
Digitize event materials: Provide your attendees with digital event materials right at their fingertips, so there is no need to email presentations afterward.
Send push notifications from organizer: Changes to the agenda or special announcements are easy to communicate to attendees through push notifications sent directly to them during the event.
Showcase sponsors: Feature valued sponsors directly on each attendee's app.
Gather digital feedback: During the event, get real-time feedback on a session from your attendees with the survey feature.


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Experienced IT Professionals! If you're an IT professional in any domain, means you're engaged or qualified with experience in a profession that requires special education, ability or training. All three are necessary requirements for an IT professional to tackle today's computing world.
The demand for IT professionals in the India has risen 28 percent this y... read more


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Rondine: simply, a great italian story
Rondine is an italian company that has built its success on product innovation and on its ability to anticipate the evolution of the market. Thanks to continuous growth, in the 1990s a major group was created followed by the acquisition of two prestigious brands: Bialetti, a world leader of coffee makers, and Faema Casa. Rondine, which has always been the historical brand of the group, has continued its production of non-stick cookware, reaching a top position on the Italian market and establishing itself as a leading brand in Europe.
Rondine Italia, this was the name of the company, was founded in 1947 in Coccaglio (Brescia) by Francesco Ranzoni The company was specialized in manufacturing aluminum pans. In the 1980s, Rondine Italia was one of the first to use a non-stick coating and to introduce screen printing on its cookware. During the same period, it reached another important objective with the creation of the Trudi line of non-stick aluminum cookware, which is today the best-selling line in mass retail. The year 1993 marked an important turning-point:
Rondie Italia acquired Bialetti. These two companies have different stories, but are both Italian and have the same vocation for quality and innovation. This common philosophy convinced the Chairman, Francesco Ranzoni, to purchase a shareholding representing the entire share capital of Alfonso Bialetti & C. from Faema. This singular entrepreneurial decision, in just a few years, led to extraordinary successes bearing the mark of the legendary "Little Man with the Moustache". In the late 1990s, to be precise in 1998, another milestone for the company was reached: Rondine and Alfonso Bialetti & C. merged and Rondine became a trademark of the prestigious Group, which in the present as in the past is an important point of reference in family kitchens in Italy and the world over.
In 2011 has been made a great re-styling of the lines. Trudi line, always in evolution, is still the most beloved one. The cooking tools of the Easy Chef line are a great success, a whole line dedicated to special cooking.
Discover Trudi line
For any idea in the kitchen…there's Trudi: a world of solutions, all produced in aluminum with a non-stick coating for even heat distribution, quicker cooking and to be certain that foods will never stick. Trudi is truly suitable for any recipe, from the most traditional to the most creative, always with great flavor and a low fat content. Trudi, the most versatile, the largest, the most widely sold, the most well loved.
Discover Metal Silver line
The new Rondine Metal silver line combines the unique non-stick coating stone effect with comfort and convenience. Ideal for those who want an innovative product that combines genuine cuisine and balanced with a higher usability. The non-stick coating super high resistance ensures great versatility of use, while the surface marbled returns the pleasure of cooking as stone with no oils or other condiments.
Discover Everyday Grill line
A barbecue always provides a party mood; this method of cooking enables you to prepare a wide variety of dishes and rediscover the pleasure of healthy, tasty foods. Everyday Grill is ideal way to cook tasty meat, fish and vegetable dishes quickly and easily. Test your skills with Everyday Grill and take the opportunity to change you usual kitchen routine.


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Dear all,
We surely lost a beloved friend and fearless fighter for justice. Now, I'd like to share a few anecdotes about my friend:
The strong-willed friend:
Rachel was living in Philly when the Virginia Journey of Hope in the mid-nineties took place. (She and I had become friends, after being introduced at one of the first Fast & Vigils at the Supreme Court while she still lived in Alaska). She was just starting her "Don't Kill for Me" project, interviewing and photographing family members of murder victims. We decided to drive down together, and I'd drive my car. Rachel grew up in Maine and lived in Alaska. I'm from South Jersey. The cold didn't bother Rachel. I couldn't stand it. October for me is deep freeze. We "argued" the whole way down about my freezing and her complaining about the heat on in the car. She won almost the entire route, switching off the heat. I was a city person and afraid of spiders. We walked in the dark to the cabin in the woods. She wouldn't let me use the flashlight to check for spiders because it might "bother others". She said I should basically get over it. Of course I ended up not using the flashlight.
The early to bed friend:
She went to sleep early. I like to stay up late. One night we were out with visiting friends in Philly and she invited me to stay at her place in the city instead of driving back to NJ. I wasn't ready to go back to her apartment. She wanted to go to sleep. She said she'd leave the key. She did. She also had turned all the lights out, left me a thin blanket and a thermostat probably set on 45 degrees. I was "afraid" to wake her so I froze all night. That happened a few times... at her apartment in DC too.
The independent-minded friend:
We were traveling with one of the "Journeys of Hope". Rachel watched Sam Shepard shave his head. She thought that was cool. Next thing you know... Rachel had her head shaved to match Sam.
The proud friend:
After her first bouts with chemo, I met Rachel at the NCADP annual conference. We always tried to manage to either sneak away from the conference for lunch, or to sit together at the Saturday night banquet. Rachel and I planned to meet before the banquet so we'd get a seat together. She showed up dressed in the most stunning outfit, once again head bald... no scarf for her. She was beautiful that night, more beautiful maybe than ever.
The forgiving friend:
Over the past few years, I didn't get a chance to see Rachel very often. So many of us allow work to consume our time, and we think our friends will be there with us forever. I emailed and called her, and told her over and over what a lousy friend I was, because I should have been around more when she got ill. She would have none of that. She was forgiving and told me to get rid of the guilt.
Some folks wonder how you could care so much for a friend you saw so little. I've tried to explain how in the abolition/human rights movement, we more often than not, call each other family, because it just feels that way, more than a friendship. We work on tough issues, and develop strong personalities when arguing for justice. But there are some folks, Rachel for sure, that truly have and had become family over the years. We don't have to see each other regularly. Often not more than once each year. We squabble like family members do, sometimes over the issues, sometimes over thermostats in an apartment you only visit on lucky occasions when you get together away from the crowds, and get some time on the road away from jobs, etc. Only those who have experienced those bonds truly know what they mean.
So many of you know. I've seen that in just the past week or hours, in what and how you've written about Rachel.
Rachel will always be part of my human rights family. I wish we had more time. I will miss my friend always. And in the meantime hold you all dear, all the more because I know what I and we just lost. Rachel can rest now. I'll work harder because of her. Large footsteps indeed.


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How Brocoders Help to Improve the Higher Education in Ukraine
CASERS.org - a platform that helps to bring higher education from boring theory to real cases
For the last years, it's been stated that the level of higher education in Ukraine leaves much to be desired. Graduates complain that the knowledge they get at the universities has nothing to do with the practical cases that they face once they apply to the job.
The old-fashioned format of long boring lectures, tons of rewritten notes are no more effective in the current pace of life. The world is developing fast and young specialists should be able to adjust to those changes and be flexible.
The ultimate goal of CASERS was to bring to the educational process the novelty and excitement that the students and the professors have been waiting for.
The concept of the platform is simple: on the one side, there are companies that have real cases to be solved and are looking for original and non-conventional ideas. On the other side, there are the students that are looking for the places where they can apply their theoretical knowledge in a real life. So, the founder of the platform Evgeniy Ursalov came up with the idea to connect the two parties together for a mutual benefit.
He addressed to our co-founder and his old friend Rodion Salnik to take part in the project and lead the technical part. Actually, it wasn't the first project that they are working on together (previously, there was a platform for sports dance events call Danceter). So, the project discussion didn't take much time and within few weeks the Brocoders team moved to the MVP development.
The pluses of CASERS are obvious: the companies get the solutions that they've been looking for, the student get the practical cases, the experience and in the case if their solution wins, even money reward and an opportunity to get an internship in the largest companies of their country.
There can be some skeptical thoughts that the student can't bring much value. But that's not true. Firstly, students have much free time that they can dedicate to the problem solvation. Secondly, the students have a feeling of "hunger" for the practical cases but not just some theory. And the last, but, probably, one of the main reasons is that students are much more flexible. They have a fresh mind and they are more likely to come up with an out-of-the-box solution.
It's actually not a revolutionary idea. The concept of bringing young specialists and big companies together has been already applied in the largest business schools all over the world. But, until the recent time, it didn't exist in our country.
Everything started from the Open Kharkiv Championship of solving business cases - #SMPChallenge, that was organized by the CASERS team and the Karazin Business School. There were 15 cases and 515 participants. The most curious thing was that the both parties were willing to pay for the competition, as that time the participation in the championship wasn't free for any of the parties. The fact that the companies and the students were ready to pay, proved the concept and allowed CASERS to move further.
While testing the idea in Kharkiv, it was decided to invite various kinds of the companies. There were both small companies, like 3D printing studio and big ones like Mivina (Nestle). There were even 2 cases from Kharkiv city council.
The championship showed that the students were able to bring useful and practical solutions to the companies.
There was even one situation when a financials director of one of the big enterprises called Evgeniy at 9.30 p.m. being very excited and said: "We've been working with the guys on the case and I'm astonished! I even haven't realized that it can be solved it that way!". Two other teams have also found very practical solutions to the problems and were even proposed to work in the company.
In general, the outcome of the championship was the following: 70% of the solutions were a complete nonsense, 20% - something interesting but not realistic or difficult to implement, and 10% - that were exactly the students and the solutions the companies were looking for.
The CASERS team has come to the conclusion that the small companies were using CASERS only for getting the solutions from that participants. Whereas, the big companies were more interested in finding young talents and inviting them to their companies.
So, in April 2017 CASERS launched the MVP for the product. As the main goal was still to test the idea and acquire the first adopters of the platform, the set of the features implemented in the MVP was rather limited. Having thought carefully about the project once again, we've come to the conclusion that the core features that were necessary at that stage were the case catalog, sign up system and the case page. The main section that we've decided to start with were finances, management, and marketing.
For now, the platform is showing a steady growth and the number of users is increasing considerably. And we are not going to stop. In the near future, we are planning to test our model in the following spheres: IT, legislation, remote work on the cases from other cities. We also want to implement the real cases in the university curriculum and get a partnership with other educational programs, establishments, and courses.
To sum it up, we can say that the idea of CASERS has shown that the higher educational system in Ukraine can and has to be improved. The world doesn't need bookworms that are slaving at their notes day and night memorizing the things they'll probably never use in their life. On the contrary, what we lack is highly professional specialists that are ready to solve the problems immediately and propose original solutions to the most complicated cases. And that's exactly what CASERS helps them to do.
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The Cyprus Flag
Cyprus, at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa, is situated in the north-eastern corner of the Mediterranean Sea, 75km south of Turkey, 90km west of Syria and 380km east of the Greek island of Rhodes. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily and Sardinia, with an area of 9.251 sq km. Of the total area 36,2% is occupied by Turkish troops while 3% constitutes the territory of the British Sovereign Base Areas (BSBA).
Topography – Geology
Two mountain ranges, the Troodos Range and the Keryneia Range, run from east to west across the island separated by the central Messaoria plain.
The densely forested Troodos Range in the south-west is a dome-shaped highland dominated by the island´s highest peak, Mount Olympus, at 1.953 metres above sea level. The entire Troodos massif takes up approximately one half the area of the island and constitutes the largest volume of ophiolite rock in the world. This unique mountain range constists of part of the earth´s upper mantle, thrust upwards from the primordial seabed many millions of years ago. It is of great interest to geologists and allows access to geological strata that would otherwise remain concealed beneath the sea.
The narrower Keryneia Range in the north , mainly of limestone, rises up to 1.024 metres and is also known as the Pentadaktylos- or Five Finger mountain. It is made of a succession of mostly allochthonous sedimentary formations ranging from Permian to Middle Miocene in age. Karpassia, the northeastern part of the range, is a continuation of Pentadaktylos consisting of hills, slopes and valleys free of foldings and other tectonic features.
The central Messaoria plain has a low relief and was formed during a very recent chronological period (holocene).
Cyprus is almost surrounded by coastal valleys where the soil is alluvial and fertile, suitable for agriculture. Arable land in Cyprus constitutes 46,8% of the total area of the island. Rivers are seasonal and only flow after heavy rain.
According to data from the Statistical Service of the Ministry of Finance, the total population of Cyprus was 802.500 at the end of 2002 of whom 80,1% (642.600) are considered to be members of the Christian Greek Cypriot community and speak Greek. Of the remainder, 10,9% (87.400) belong to the Moslem Turkish Cypriot community and speak Turkish, and 9% (72.500) are foreign workers and expatriates residing in Cyprus. English is widely spoken in Cyprus and regularly used in commerce and government.
While the majority of the Greek Cypriot community are members of the Autocephalous Greek Cypriot Orthodox Church of Cyprus, 1% are actually members of the Armenian, Maronite and Latin churches. Under the provisions of the 1960 Constitution these religious minorities chose to be considered members of the Greek Cypriot community.
Since the Turkish invasion and occupation of over a third of the island, the demographic character has been changed dramatically as a result of Turkey´s population policies. There are now around 115.000 illegal Turkish settlers in the occupied area, while an estimated 55.000 Turkish Cypriots have emigrated.
The capital of Cyprus is Lefkosia (Nicosia) with a population of 208.900. It is situated roughly in the middle of the island and is the seat of the government as well as being the main business center. Lefkosia has the unwelcome distinction of being the only divided capital city in the world. Since the Turkish invasion of 1974 its northern part is under occupation and is separated from the south by a United Nations patrolled buffer zone.
The second biggest town on the island is the main commercial port of Lemesos (Limassol) in the south of the island, also a popular tourist resort, which has a population of 163.900.
The coastal town of Larnaka in the south-east has a population of 73.200 and is the island´s second commercial port and also an important tourist resort. To the south of the town is situated Larnaka´s International Airport.
Pafos in the south-west with a population of 48.300 is a fast developing tourist resort and home to the island´s second International Airport.
In the Turkish occupied area, Ammochostos (Famagusta) in the eastern part of the island was the centre of the pre-1974 tourist industry. Other main towns which are also under Turkish occupation are Morfou in the north-west and Keryneia in the north.
Cyprus is the warmest island in the Mediterranean. The mean daily temperature in July and August ranges between 29°C on the central plain to 22°C on the Troodos mountains, while the average maximum temperature for these months ranges between 36°C and 27°C respectively. Winters are mild. The island, on average, enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine every year, and the rainy season is confined to the period between November and March. Snow occurs rarely in the lowland and on the northern range of Keryneia but falls every winter on ground above 1.000 metres on the Troodos Range, usually occurring by the first week in December and ending by the middle of April.
Greek and Turkish are official languages of the State. English is widely spoken by the population.
Natural Environment
The coast of Cyprus is indented and rocky in the north, with long sandy beaches and numerous coves in the south. The northern coastal plain is covered with olive and carob trees and backed by the steep limestone Pentadaktylos mountain range. In the south the extensive Troodos massif is covered with pine, dwarf oak, cypress and cedar trees. Seventeen per cent of the island is woodland. Between the two ranges lies the fertile Messaoria plain.
The flora of Cyprus is unique and constitutes a truly outstanding botanical heritage. With an estimated 1.800 species of flowering plants, 8% of which are found only on the island, it is a paradise for botanists.
The arrival of animals on the island has long been a subject of fascination for zoologists. Evidence suggests that the first animals were pigmy hippopotami and elephants which swam to Cyprus. Apart from certain species of mice and shrew, they remained the only inhabitants of the island until the arrival of man. The present-day fauna of Cyprus includes 25 species of mammals , 26 species of amphibians and reptiles, 365 species of birds ( though only 115 breed on the island) and a great variety of invertebrates while the coastal waters of the island give shelter to 197 fish species and to various species of crabs, sponges and echinodermata.
The largest wild animal found on the island today is the moufflon (Ovis orientalis ophion), a rare type of mountain goat unique to the island. It is strictly protected and its population has revived from near extinction to about 2.000 animals at present. It is the symbol of the Republic of Cyprus and is used on its coins.
Each year Cyprus is used as a stopping off point by millions of migrating birds traveling between Europe and Africa, something that has been observed since Homeric times. The birds are attracted by the island's two salt lakes at Larnaka and Akrotiri.
Other seasonal visitors to the island include the Green and loggerhead turtles (Chelonia mydas and Caretta caretta) which travel to the island's sandy beaches each year in order to lay their eggs. A successful conservation project was launched in 1978 in order to protect these two species. The programme, which includes a hatchery, is a model one in the Mediterranean.
For more information on Cyprus you can visit the Cyprus Tourism Organization Website.
You can also visit the following websites:
Aspects of Cyprus
Cyprus on Film
The Website is best viewed with screen resolution: 1024 with 768 pixels
©2006 - 2020 Republic of Cyprus, Ministry of the Foreign Affairs,Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in Dublin
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Foundation Studies in Arts
1 year
January, April, August
Level of Study:
Centre for Pre-University Studies
Course Code:
About this course
The Foundation Studies in Arts, a programme of proven quality and value, is widely accepted as an entry qualification for Economics, Finance and Accounting programmes in the prestigious and world-class University of London Programmes or Anglia Ruskin University Programmes, as well as premier universities.
Study Mode: Full Time
Assessment: Coursework and Examination
Awarding Institution: HELP College of Arts and Technology (HELP CAT
- Standards benchmarked between South Australian Matriculation and A-Level programmes
- Curriculum includes a Critical Thinking course that develops rational, analytical, coherent and logical thinking among students
- External examiner monitors standards of teaching, learning and assessment as well as effective implementation of curriculum
- Feeder programme to our top partner universities or professional accounting:
- University of London Programmes (UOL)
- Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
Total Course Fees
Subject Listing
- English Language & Communication 100
- Mathematics 101
- Accounting 101
- Statistics
- Mathematics 102
- Economics 101
- Economics 102
- Accounting 102
- Introduction to Information Systems
- Critical Thinking
Coursework and Examination
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have one of the following entry requirements:
Minimum of 5 credits (with a pass in BM and History)
- Forecast/ Trial Examination Results
may be used for provisional enrolment if the official results have yet to be released
Academic Pathway
The Foundation Studies Programmes (FSP) is fully accredited by MQA. Students who have graduated successfully from this programme can apply to the universities** listed below. The list is constantly being updated as the Department seeks to identify undergraduate programmes and universities locally and abroad to provide additional pathways for our Foundation Studies graduates.
- Oxford Brookes University
- University of Northumbria at Newcastle
- The University of Strathclyde
- University of West of England, Bristol
- University of Hull
- University of London International Programmes
- University of Sunderland**
- The University of Adelaide
- The University of Melbourne
- The University of Queensland
- The University of Western Australia*
- The University of South Australia
- Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
- Victoria University of Technology
- Central Queensland University
- Griffith University
- Northern Territory University
- The University of Southern Queensland
- The University of New England
- Flinders University
- Charles Sturt University
- Monash University* (Main Campus in Australia)
- University of Tasmania
- Curtin University of Technology (Main Campus in Australia** and Sarawak Campus)
- Murdoch University**
- The University of New South Wales
- Upper Iowa University
- Southern New Hampshire University* (formerly known as New Hampshire College)
- Russian State Medical University
- Kursk State Medical University
- Moscow Medical Academy
- Nihny Novgorod State Medical Academy
- Volgograd State Medical University
- Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM)
- Asian Institute of Medicine, Science & Technology (AIMST)
- University of Nottingham Malaysia
- Penang International Dental College (PIDC)
Why Foundation @ HELPCAT?
- Recognition by universities in Australia, United Kingdom, New Zealand, United States of America and other countries
- A flexible programme which offers a broad-based education providing exposure to a variety of disciplines, thus allowing students to make an informed choice when deciding on a future career
- Leadership training specially designed by experienced psychologists and trained facilitators highlighting the following areas: self-confidence & self-esteem, dealing with fear, dealing with change, team work, cultivating the right values in order to be an ethical employee


text: Comparing Investigation on Landsat-ETM+ and IRS-P6-LISS IV Data for Canopy Cover Mapping of Zagros Forests (Case Study, Javanroud Forests) text article 2012 per In order to evaluate capability of the Landsat-ETM and IRS-P6-LISS IV images for canopy cover mapping a case study was done on the forests of Javanroud in Kermanshah province. After evaluation of the geometric and radiometric quality of the data, the ETM+ images, the ETM+ images were geometrically corrected with GCPs and the images were registered with RMSE error 0.46 and 0.48 pixels, for X and Y, respectively. The COST method was used to atmospheric correction. To reduce the effect of soil reflectance, suitable vegetation indices were prepared using soil line parameters. A ground truth map was generated through random systematic sampling method with sample size of 60×60m2. In each plot, the canopy of trees was measured in two directions and percentage of canopy cover was computed in hectare. The plots were classified to four classes (very thin, thin, semi-dense and dense) based on canopy cover. 25% of sample plots from each class was selected as training area and the best spectral bands were selected using divergence separability index between classes. Regarding to area of canopy cover computing and in order to pixel size equalization of LISS-IV and ETM+ images, 6×6 pixel size of LISS-IV images were merged and their average value was used as a final value of merged pixel. Supervised classification was accomplished on the best and main bands. The accuracy assessment of generated map was evaluated using 75% of sample plots. The results showed that using the best selected LISS-IV bands could better classify 4 classes than other images by maximum likelihood algorithm with 64.54% overall accuracy and 0.43 kappa coefficient. In order to develop the results, the very thin class with thin class and semi-dense with dense classes were merged and a new classification was repeated. The minimum distance to mean classifier algorithm using the best selected LISS-IV bands showed the highest overall accuracy and kappa coefficient equal to 79% and 0.58, respectively. It is concluded that in such sparse forests, low canopy area of forest species as well as the soil reflectance as background leads to undesirable results. Journal of Wood and Forest Science and Technology Gorgan University Of Agricultural Sciences 2322-2077 17 v. 3 no. 2012 1 20 http://jwfst.gau.ac.ir/article_203_45885f52a8d35ccde8320f1075e33f44.pdf Effect of Forest Road Construction on Forest Villages Development (Case Study; Series 2, Section 6, Neka-Zalem rood) text article 2012 per In the past, forest road network designing was mainly done for its main goals-management and exploitation. This study was performed to pay attention for multilateral goals of forest roads, especially its role in forest villages' development, in Estakhr-Posht of Neka (6 villages) in series 2, section 6 of Neka-Zalem rood forest management plan. At first, constructed forest roads and suggested roads were calculated in 3 decades (1986, 1996, and 2006). Then, development situation and the benefits of studied villages services from implementation of the plan at each decades was determined by using statistical sources and related information to population and housing census, agriculture and complementally questionnaire for each one of villages (general, social, economic characteristics, services, facilities and available possibilities) on the basis of pre-eminent related to road construction. With doing attention to villages' access to means of communication type of roads the advantage of profit rate of forest road was calculated. Data was processed with Excel software and then, the relation between accessing of forest roads donations and village development was analyzed by Pearson correlation test. The Result showed that Calculated correlation rate was equal to r=0.866 that alluding to direct and meaningful relation was between access to forest roads and village development. Finally this study indicated that the villages by accessing to forest roads for more years and means of communication in long time could be enjoyed possibilities, services and had best situation in respect of rural development. Journal of Wood and Forest Science and Technology Gorgan University Of Agricultural Sciences 2322-2077 17 v. 3 no. 2012 19 39 http://jwfst.gau.ac.ir/article_204_2f06d8332a8fb50bd1189436c1f2dd2c.pdf The Effect of Growth Stresses on the Anatomical and Physical Properties of Fagus orientalis L. text article 2012 per Growth stresses develop in trees' trunks during formation and maturation of their growth rings. The asymmetric of growth stress field causes formation of abnormal wood called "reaction wood". This study has been conducted to characterize the effect of growth stresses on anatomical and physical properties of Fagus orientalis. Longitudinal growth stress was measured at 8 equidistant points on circumference, at breast height of 19 standing Beech trees in parcels 117 and 223/220 at Kheyroudkenar Research Forest. Using displacement gauge, longitudinal Point with greatest stress history on each sample tree was marked, and then trees were cut down to collect test materials for anatomical and physical properties. On cross-section of each sample bolt segment of harvested trees, area with greatest stress and its opposite were identified to cut out specimens. Results of investigations have shown that in the area with greatest values of longitudinal stress, tension wood has formed. In this area comparing with opposite wood of cross-section, number of vessels, diameter of vessels' lumen and typical fiber diameter were lower, but length and wall thickness of fibers and average percent of fiber content, shrinkage and swelling rates were higher. There were no significance statistical difference between moisture content and basic specific gravity in wood of both areas. Journal of Wood and Forest Science and Technology Gorgan University Of Agricultural Sciences 2322-2077 17 v. 3 no. 2012 37 55 http://jwfst.gau.ac.ir/article_205_9eac25b7c5c3bbb70d26b70f8ff5e70c.pdf Comparison of Peroxidase Seasonal Alteration Among Populus deltoides Clones text article 2012 per Plantation of fast-growing species such as Poplar is one of the important methods for wood production in the countries with low natural forest areas. Physiological differences of Populus deltoides clones planted through three decades in Shast Kalate research forest are unknown. Peroxidase enzyme in this research was used for clone separation as a biochemical marker that is sensitive to environmental alteration especially temperature and its direct participation in lignification process. Sampling was done from one year old seedlings of five clones and quantitative and qualitative activities of peroxidase during five months (September through May) were measured using Worthington and PAGE methods, respectively. The results showed that peroxidase quantitative activity and isoenzyme pattern of clones were different among the months which indicated the role of this enzyme in cold hardiness and lignification of the clones. Journal of Wood and Forest Science and Technology Gorgan University Of Agricultural Sciences 2322-2077 17 v. 3 no. 2012 55 71 http://jwfst.gau.ac.ir/article_206_6292a051bf1469b53f014ea9d933d4f2.pdf The Effect of Different Conditions of Enzymatic Deinking on Optical Properties of ONP Deinked Pulp with Cellulase text article 2012 per Deinkability of old newspaper was investigated using cellulase at different concentrations and treatment times. The results of optical properties of the made papers indicated that by increasing the enzyme concentration to 0.05 percent the brightness was increased to 47.5% ISO and yellowness decreased to 11.03% ISO. While at higher charges than 0.05 percent, brightness value the was decreased and yellowness increased. Opacity of paper was improved to 99.3% ISO by increasing the enzyme charge to 0.1% but it was reduced at higher levels than 0.1%. It was observed that enhancing of treatment time to 15 minutes and also using one-stage washing resulted in the highest brightness of 47.5% ISO, the lowest yellowness of 11.03% ISO and the opacity of 97.4% ISO. Maximum opacity was observed at treatment time of 10 minutes. With regard to the results from paper provided with enzymatic deinking of old newspaper, we could produce the papers with desirable brightness and low yellowness using optimum charge of 0.05% cellulase and treatment time of 15 minutes along with one-stage washing. We could also obtain higher opacity values using 0.1 percent enzyme or 10 minutes treatment time. Journal of Wood and Forest Science and Technology Gorgan University Of Agricultural Sciences 2322-2077 17 v. 3 no. 2012 71 86 http://jwfst.gau.ac.ir/article_207_2f282a19cba98ab8280f4189e2c76606.pdf Effect of Beech Red Heartwood (Fagus orientalis L.) on the Physical Properties (Moisture Content and Specific Gravity) and the Drying Behavior of the Species text article 2012 per In this research, the influence of red heartwood formation in Iranian Beech (Fagus orientalis L.) on its drying behavior was studied. Radial variation (from pith to bark) in specific gravity, green moisture content, drying rate, transverse shrinkage and casehardening in a Beech log containing red heartwood was investigated. All samples were dried in an experimental kiln under a constant temperature of 60 oC and relative humidity of 40% to the final moisture content of about 8%. The results showed that the wood containing red heartwood had greater specific gravity and lower green moisture content than normal wood. In addition, it was revealed that the red heartwood formation in Beech decreased the drying rate and increased shrinkage and casehardening. The microscopic studies indicated that the tylose presents in the vessel cavities of red heartwood Beech. Thus, the different drying behavior of Beech red heartwood can be attributed to the tylose in the vessel cavities. Journal of Wood and Forest Science and Technology Gorgan University Of Agricultural Sciences 2322-2077 17 v. 3 no. 2012 85 99 http://jwfst.gau.ac.ir/article_208_852fcc2c3fe870427ad6911fdcb97eed.pdf Comparison among Different Clones of Populus nigra in Aspect of Cold Resistance text article 2012 per Increasing of wood demand is currently one of the most important problems in our society. Different clones of Populus nigra from salicacea as a native fast-growing species have a good potential for planting in wide scale. But because of the ecological differences in the field, especially. Temperature alterations, segregation of the cold resistant clones in relation to in seedling stage establishment is very important. Peroxidase enzyme as one of the most sensitive physiological factors to environmental stresses, especially low temperature was used to compare the ability of cold resistance of five clones of this species. Quantitative and qualitative activities of this biochemical marker (POD) were studied during five months from September till May. The result indicated that P. nigra 62.231 and 64.13 clones had the best ability of early autumn cold resistance and P. nigra 56.52 clone had the best ability of late spring cold resistance. Also, P. nigra 62.171 and 64.13 clones the best winter cold resistance. Journal of Wood and Forest Science and Technology Gorgan University Of Agricultural Sciences 2322-2077 17 v. 3 no. 2012 99 112 http://jwfst.gau.ac.ir/article_209_06cc8dd3667d66690c1427fe78497aff.pdf Investigation of Microscopic Structure and Chemical Changes in Beech Wood During Weathering Process text article 2012 per In this study Beech wood (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) samples with dimentions of 150755 mm were prepared and subjected to a variety of artificial weathering conditions in an Atlas Xenon Test Beta LM Weatherometer to UV radiation (300 nm) and visible light (750 nm) and water spray in different times (50, 150 and 300 h). Then wood surface was analyzed for chemical and structural changes using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), respectively. Results showed that weathering process affected the functional groups on the wood surface. Full weathering (light and water) damaged the surface polymer structure and caused chemical and physical changes in wood. The greatest changes occurred in the functional groups and aromatic structure of lignin. With increasing of weathering time, the absorption intensity of c=o loonds increased at 1730-1740 cm-1 and aromatic skeletal vibration in intensity 1514 cm-1 decreased. By the effect of UV radiation, choromophoric groups were produced in lignin. Photochemical cleavage of C-C bonds adjacent to carbonyl groups made the chemical compounds smaller and water-soluble. The SEM results showed that the surface of wood exposed to weathering undergoes distinct physical changes and the surface degradation appears to be directly proportional to the time of exposure to the weathering conditions. However, trace changes were observed in samples weathered for 50h. Journal of Wood and Forest Science and Technology Gorgan University Of Agricultural Sciences 2322-2077 17 v. 3 no. 2012 112 125 http://jwfst.gau.ac.ir/article_210_3c71ca3252cc4505d731ceb9d964a646.pdf Dimensional Stability and Mechanical Properties of Particleboard Made from Acetylated Bagasse text article 2012 per The purpose of this study was to evaluate the dimensional stability and mechanical properties of three-layer particleboard produced from linear chain carboxylic acid anhydride modified bagasse particles. Modification was performed via esterification of bagasse using acetic anhydride without using any catalyst and solvent at 120 oC for 240 min at lab scale. Bagasse with two particle sizes including fine (0.2-0.4 mm) and coarse (0.8-1.2 mm) were modified. Different weight percent gains (WPGs) were obtained with different sizes and reagents. Acetylated and unmodified bagasse particles were pressed into three-layer particleboards using phenol formaldehyde (resole type). The physical and mechanical properties of the boards were tested. The particleboards made from esterified bagasse particles were more dimensionally stable (about 87%) than control boards made from untreated bagasse. But the mechanical and physical properties of the modified boards were lower than control board. Journal of Wood and Forest Science and Technology Gorgan University Of Agricultural Sciences 2322-2077 17 v. 3 no. 2012 125 136 http://jwfst.gau.ac.ir/article_211_14151f04389a03e12dd0a33b19a39255.pdf Surveying the Relationship of Beech Stand Diameter and Its Spectral Signature on Satellite Data text article 2012 per Acquiring up-to-date information about stands is necessary for scientific management and planning of forest. Remote sensing by its great capabilities in this way can be very useful. This study was done to investigate the capability of satellite data for gathering information about Beech diameter specification. 21 plots of one hectare dimension were selected at experimental forest of Kheyroud in Noshahr. In each plot, diameters of all trees above 12.5 cm were measured and recorded. Then geographic specifications of centennial portion and four corners of each plot were recorded and their digital map was prepared. Geometric correction was performed up to orthorectification level with affine transformation and resampling of nearest neighbour with less than 0.6 pixel error. For surveying of synthetic bands and various indices, Principle component analysis, Ratio and Fusion were used. Then digital numbers matching with plots from principle and synthetic bands were extracted and used in regression analysis test. Results showed that maximum correlation of diameter was with G/R, GRVI, [(G+NIR)-R]/(G+R+NIR), R+G+NIR with correlation coefficients of -69%, -67%, -54% and -53%, respectively. After extraction of correlation coefficients, equations of relationship between diameter and digital numbers of images were produced. Results of this study supported the hypothesis of possibility of predicting diameter of Beech stands using satellite images. Journal of Wood and Forest Science and Technology Gorgan University Of Agricultural Sciences 2322-2077 17 v. 3 no. 2012 137 150 http://jwfst.gau.ac.ir/article_212_17bce5a2dbad1e9baaca1ffa3ad0ca20.pdf


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Announcements for the Week of 1/11/16
Kim Dunlap
Monday, January 11, 2016
January 11th - Tutoring Resumes
January 18th 2016 NO SCHOOL, in observance of Martin Luther King Day.
January 19th, 2016 Randolph County Spelling Bee hosted by M.D. Williams in the Gym beginning at 6 pm.
January 22, 2016 ABBIT Program
January 27th, 2016 Elementary Chess Tournament at the Northeast Arkansas Educational Coop in Walnut Ridge.


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Hair Expo is THIS WEEKEND and we couldn't be more excited here at Hair Expo HQ! It's arguably the biggest weekend on the calendar of any hairdresser – three days where professionals come together to revel in how amazing our industry is through education, shopping, and incredible hair-themed events. It's a time to be inspired, network with industry peers, and head back to the salon feeling refreshed and ready to apply what you've learned to maximise the benefits for your clients. Aside from the obvious FOMO you'll inevitably feel when all your friends are at Hair Expo without you, here are 10 reasons to block out 8-10 June in your diary:
It's back in Darling Harbour, Sydney
Hair Expo's position this year in the heart of Sydney's CBD and entertainment precinct means exciting options for post- and pre-Hair Expo activities (we're thinking happy hour deals galore!) Need help getting there?
A chance to see your hair idols
2019 headliners Jen Atkin, Candy Shaw and Tabatha Coffey together create the perfect combination of technical skill, business-savvy brilliance and captivating stage presence and are set to be the ultimate highlights of Hair Expo 2019! Learn the tips, techniques and styles they've formed over the years and have propelled them to the superstars they are today! It's your once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with three of the biggest global names in hairdressing.
Education galore
With the hottest trends just around the corner, equipping yourself with the latest industry education is crucial in order to stay ahead of the game! Hair Expo's 2019 education program will open the door to the latest innovations in colouring, cutting, styling, barbering and business from globally esteemed educators including Sharon Blain, Bernadette Beswick, Jules Tognini, Uros Mikic, Lorna Evans, Dario Cotroneo, and more! One weekend is all you'll need to gain the skills to expand your skill set, provide the best services for your growing client base, and reach your true potential.
Value for money
Make the most of your Hair Expo experience with Hair Expo's all-in-one Festival Pass. Including 3-day expo entry, International Headliner Sessions (Jen Atkin Creative Seminar & Candy Shaw Creative Seminar), all 7 Look 'n' Learn Sessions, all 5 Barberland Sessions, all 10 Business Education Sessions and the GenNext show, you'd be crazy not to take advantage and enjoy all that Hair Expo has to offer! View your pass options.
The GenNext Show
The GenNext show is the ultimate night of inspiration, aspiration and entertainment! On the Sunday night of Hair Expo, witness the next generation of hair superstars and be blown away as eight teams push the boundaries of creativity in hair, plus a highly anticipated main act from industry legends Robert Cromeans and Angus Mitchell, representing Paul Mitchell. GenNext hosts Richard Reid and Jules Tognini will ensure it's an unmissable night celebrating our incredible hairdressing industry! Tickets to the GenNext show are cheaper than ever before, so you can make the most of your Hair Expo experience and put your savings to good use (expo specials, perhaps?!).
The iconic Hair Expo Awards (and the after party!)
On the last day of Hair Expo, the hair industry comes together for the pinnacle event of the long weekend – the Hair Expo Awards evening. It's here the winners of the most prestigious accolades in the industry are announced and celebrated over a three-course feast and a line-up of entertainment. The fun's set to continue after the awards, with an exclusive after party set to cap off the Hair Expo weekend, brought to you by Excellent Edges, Hot Tools, O&M and HAIRBIZ Magazine. Get your dancing shoes and your finest threads together so you're red carpet-ready for the biggest night on the hairdressing calendar!
New products and brands to see, sample and shop
Get your hands on the latest product and technology innovations from leading and boutique brands on the expo floor. Expect to see cult favourite brands like Excellent Edges, Paul Mitchell, Dyson, O&M, Mizutani, Rogue Beauty, Seamless1, Wahl, De Lorenzo, Glampalm, and Oribe; as well as newbies to Hair Expo like ANTI, Hot Tools, Gold Fever, Bondi Boost and many more.
Save up to 45% with expo specials
Hair Expo equals shopping heaven and there are some amazing deals on offer for visitors this year (hello 30% off Dyson Supersonic™ hairdryer!). Check out all the latest expo specials on the Hair Expo website and start getting your shopping list ready!
The NEW Advice Hub
Finding the right business advice for your salon can be tricky. Thankfully, the Advice Hub provides free, confidential support on topics including tax, bookkeeping, accounting, salon insurance and workplace relations. Whether you're a long-time salon owner and are feeling stuck on a particular topic, or your dream is to open your own salon but you have no idea where to start – the Advice Hub has your back! Once you purchase your expo pass you can instantly book in your free 20 minute consultation with Hair Expo's professionals.
Live Competitions
WorldSkills Australia & TAFE NSW are inviting young barbers and stylists to compete in two challenges on Hair Expo's Main Stage: Barbering Challenge and Catwalk Conversion. Ten aspiring barbers and 10 aspiring stylists will compete in two fast and furious showdowns to produce the best looks for their clients in just 30 minutes.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your tribe and experience Hair Expo's world-class education, shop the latest innovations and specials from your favourite brands, and network with likeminded professionals – all under one roof!
Hair Expo Australia takes place from 8-10 June 2019 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney. Tickets available at www.hairexpoaustralia.com Book online to save $5 on the door!


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Release Date: February 22nd, 2013
DVD Release Date: May 28th, 2013
PG-13 |1 hr 37 minPlot Summary
Lacy (Keri Russell) and Daniel Barrett (Josh Hamilton) share a peaceful life in the suburbs with their sons, Jesse (Dakota Goyo) and Sam (Kadan Rockett). However, that peace soon shatters with a series of disturbing events that escalate. When it becomes clear that their family is being targeted by an unimaginably terrifying, deadly -- and possibly alien -- threat, Daniel and Lacy draw on their courage and determination to protect their family and identify what is after them.
Cast: Keri Russell, Josh Hamilton, Dakota Goyo, Kadan Rockett, J.K. Simmons, LJ Benet, Rich Hutchman, Myndy Crist
Director: Scott Stewart
Genres: Thriller, Science Fiction
Production Co: Blumhouse, Robotproof
Distributors: Weinstein Co.
Keywords: Suspenseful, Escape, Husband, 2010s, Wife, Pursuit, Son


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juin 18, 2019
Vacation rentals in Chester: rent the right apartment
Accommodation is among the first things that you have to sort out when planning a holiday. Where you are going to stay during your getaway can […]
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février 1, 2019
How to rent or hire a car in the UK?
Renting a car in the UK is quite simple. Most rental companies in the country use the traditional model where you walk into the rental agency […]
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novembre 13, 2015
Why choose Ile-de-Ré for your next holiday trip
Ile de Ré is a charming island that makes for an ideal holiday destination. Its extremely mild climate and exceptional scenery can guarantee its visitors a […]
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novembre 13, 2015
Visit Tunis, the Tunisian capital
Tunis, Tunisia is one of the most famous tourist spots around the world since it has a lot to offer like their culture, history, fine handcrafts […]
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novembre 12, 2015
Some of the best Places to Visit in Incredible India
India is the perfect destination place in the world for adventure tours and tourism. India is famous for his incredible culture and wealth of nature. This […]
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25 March 2019
'The Grand Caiman' will release on Friday March 29th, 2019
Shadow of the Tomb Raider 'The Grand Caiman' will release on Friday 29th March 2019. The Grand Caiman is the sixth of seven monthly DLC adventures available through the Season Pass, providing players with an abundance of new content, challenge tombs, co-op experiences, weapons and outfits, gameplay modes, and new narrative side missions.
Shadow of the Tomb Raider 'The Grand Caiman' pits Lara Croft against the wrath of a Maya god before his vengeance rains destruction across the world.
Go toe-to-toe with an angry god! Lara Croft must hunt mercenaries and face the towering wrath of a volcanic new tomb available with The Grand Caiman on March 29th. 🌋— Tomb Raider (@tombraider) March 25, 2019
🔗 https://t.co/jqk6S0uOz3 pic.twitter.com/Kl9W9v7L0X


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I wake up yesterday after a day of sunshine on Sunday, rip my comforter off in excitement, glance outside and see…snow?! If you're in Vancouver, you may have also been standing at your window yesterday morning with your jaw on the ground as the flakes fell down. I'm all for the magic of snow (that whole I smell snow Lorelai Gilmore thing) but this is getting a touch ridiculous. I'm just so ready for spring and feel like Mother Nature is being just a bit of a tease—Sunday, I get a tan, Monday I'm in a parka. Not right.
But even if Mother Nature's experiencing a touch of identity crisis, that doesn't mean we can't keep steadily working on transitioning style into spring—in fact, I like to think if we show solidarity and insist on dressing for spring, Mother Nature will relent and the flowers will pop out!
One of my favourite spring transition tricks is phasing in the canvas jacket as opposed to the more heavy wool pieces I start getting beyond sick of around this time of the year. Keep the blanket scarf on for now and a cozy pair of boyfriend jeans, along with some ankle boots—all cozy, warm but decidedly cross-season friendly! When it starts warming up you can start throwing the canvas jacket on top of more summery looks (this one for example!) but in the meantime, just keep the base of your look warm and top with the canvas jacket!
Side note, I've been needing heaps of coffee this week so feel as if it's necessary that the Elysian (pictured here) is one of my faves in the city, particularly their 5th & Burrard location—I know we're just one day in but yesterday was seriously packed, so I'm really excited (but also particularly caffeine-reliant) for a busy week! Hope you guys have a lovely Tuesday and as always, if you have any particular style stories you want me to cover (especially with this weird weather!), just tell me in the comments below!
Photos by Alicia Fashionista


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All money raised through the tournament will be donated to the Tim Horton Children's Foundation.
For more information about the tournament, visit https://thcf.akaraisin.com/Common/Event/Home.aspx?seid=13402&mid=8
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The Greatest TV Shows Set in the 1970s
List Rules Only shows set in the '70s (i.e. must have been made before or after).
As opposed to most other decades, the '70s are easily one of the more celebrated and referenced decades in American history. Alongside the '60s and '80s, the 1970s brought with it unique fashion, a new take on music, and a great deal of catch phrases—can you dig it? And while there are plenty of great shows to have come out of the decade, you can't forget the numerous TV shows set in the '70s—paying tribute to the fads and times that are so definitive of this groovy era. Of all the '70s-set TV shows, which do you think are best?
Whether you're looking for great content or shows that simply represent the decade best, TV series set in the '70s make for serious entertainment. From hilarious sitcoms to period dramas, there's really something for everyone. Perhaps one of the best TV shows set in the '70s is the aptly named That '70s Show—complete with family values, humor, teen drama, and so much more. On the other side of the spectrum, you have hit dramas like Mad Men and The Deuce, not to mention animated shows like Black Dynamite. In short, you can find a long list of modern TV shows set in the '70s, all of which provide their own look into such a classic era.
Check out the list of top shows set in the '70s below and take to to the max by voting up all of your favorites. And if you see a show's missing from the list, feel free to add it. If you're looking for more groovy content, check out the best '70s TV shows.
Premiered: 1998
Premiered: 2015
Premiered: 2017
Premiered: 2018
Premiered: 2016
Premiered: 2012
Premiered: 2015
Premiered: 2018
Premiered: 2011
Premiered: 2020
Premiered: 2012
Premiered: 2013
Premiered: 2009
Premiered: 2007
Premiered: 2017
Premiered: 1996
Premiered: 2000
Premiered: 2020
Premiered: 2002
Premiered: 2013
Premiered: 2007
Premiered: 1964
Premiered: 2008
Premiered: 1999


text: Golf Facts Golf courses in the area (30 miles) 108 Famous golf courses St. Andrews, Kingsbarns, Gleneagles, Muirfield Best time to travel May until October Green fee rates $$$$ (4/5) Mobility at the location Rental car / guided tours Flight connections Flight timetable Golf Edinburgh Show previous item Show next item Edelweiss tip Scotland is known as the home of golf - and St. Andrews, 30 miles northeast of Edinburgh, revered as a must-visit by lovers of the sport. Boasting a long tradition as an Open Championship venue, this world-famous golfing location offers a wide choice of fantastic links courses for golf enthusiasts to tee off on. Golf outing to St. Andrews Golf enthusiasts visiting Scotland will undoubtedly want to play a round of their favourite sport in St. Andrews, which is widely known as the birthplace of golf. Home to an excellent university, the charming little town lives and breathes golf. The walls of every bar and pub feature pictures of Tiger Woods, Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus contesting for the coveted Claret Jug trophy on the famous links courses. St. Andrews is simply magical. Although the north side of the Firth of Forth is a ninety-minute drive from Edinburgh, teeing off on the Old Course is still a bucket list must. The course is not particularly spectacular per se. There are no ocean views, many holes share fairways, and the bigger part of the approach shots are played on double greens. But when golfers (some likely new to links golf) attempt to manoeuvre the ball towards the flag whilst trying to keep it under the wind (use of a putter some 75 yards before the green is not uncommon), none of that really matters. What matters are those special, unforgettable golfing moments: the tee shot on the incredibly wide first fairway set against the backdrop of the R&A clubhouse, the 17th hold that features the infamous "Road Hole Bunker", and the 18th hole with photo opportunities on the iconic Swilcan Bridge. By the way, Sundays on the Old Course are reserved for the general public (except during major tournaments), when the locals can enjoy a picnic or take their dog for a walk on the course. Isn't that fantastic? Oh, and scoring a tee time is no easy feat: the Old Course upholds the tradition of a ballot (lottery) that requires entering ahead of time. Fingers crossed! Old Course Ballot The good news is that all of the other golf courses in St. Andrews (seven in total) are also worth playing on, particularly Castle Course. Also within doable travel distance is the lovely Kingsbarns, which EXPERT GOLF lists as the second most beautiful course in the world. That said, at a price of £268 per round in the peak season, it is also very expensive. Other recommended golf courses are Leven, Lundin and Ladybank. EXPERT GOLF More golf courses in the Edinburgh area Needless to say, there are some great golfing opportunities on the south shore of the Firth of Forth as well, including Muirfield, which is also part of the Open rotation, though a challenge to get a tee time for (generally only on Tue/Thurs). Golf fans will find it easier to book tee times in friendly North Berwick and Gullane that also figure among Scotland's top golf courses. Finally, Gleneagles, located in the heart of Scotland, is worth making a detour for! The Centenary Course, which is one of four courses pertaining to the Gleneagles Resort, was the host venue of the 2014 Ryder Cub. Two tips in closing Be sure you travel to Scotland with rain-proof clothing and are well-prepared for windy weather conditions. Also, make sure you have enough cash on you, in case you decide to treat yourself to a caddie. Accommodation in Scotland tends to be fairly down-to-earth, with a large number of guest houses and B&Bs to choose from. However, there are also some upmarket hotels, especially in Edinburgh and St. Andrews. As for Scotland's liquid gold, aka whisky, you can savour and enjoy it almost everywhere.


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Tomorrow we showcase the first of the stories shortlisted for The Strictly Writing Award. We'll be posting one story here on the last Friday of each month for the next ten months.
Thank you to everyone who has sent us a story so far. The truth is there were several we could have chosen for the showcase piece tomorrow. If your story was not selected this time it still might appear in later months. We'll be choosing the shortlisted stories from the new ones we receive and the ones we've already read.
If, in the meantime, your story is published elsewhere, or successful in another competition, just let us know and we'll remove it from our stock of stories for consideration.
We're having a ball reading all the stories and we're excited about posting the first one tomorrow. Please keep them coming - the pace is gathering as we get more attention on writing sites and competition listings, but there's still plenty of time to enter.


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LogRite Log Stand Attachment
The Universal Log Stand adds log jack functionality to these tools. This attachment allows you to roll a log onto the tool itself. Then the tool and the stand will hold the log up off the ground so you can cut safely through the log without touching the ground. It can be placed on any of the standard or extreme duty tools with 1.75" diameter handles.
|Part No
|LogRite Universal Log Stand Attachment
|$32.00 ea


text: "Books train your mind to imagine, to think big." students of grade Nursery and Prep showcased their imagination power to think big through a "Picture Reading competition". Students applied their genius minds to read the pictures given to them and they came up with beautiful creation of their Imaginations. Some students tried to share their imagination in one liners and some tried to recognize the characters in the story. Through this competition student's minds were triggered to share their view of the story.


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Christian Articles for All of your Publishing Needs!
Word Count: 93
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by Paul Curtis
11/22/2011 / Holidays
It is time for me to make
My most special Christmas cake
The only thing you need to start
Is the most joyous open heart
Then add by the pound
All the love that can be found
Delightful festive merriments
And simple humble ingredients
Thankfulness and Gratitude
Lashings of positive attitude
Laced with Christmas cheer
And a cup of Christmas beer
An abundance of good wishes
With lots of hugs and kisses
Not forgetting laughter and fun
Enough to serve everyone
And to complete my Gateau
I garnish with sprigs of mistletoe
I am a fifty something family man with a passion for writing and I draw inspiration from those around me.
paul.curtis1956 @ btinternet.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
If you died today, are you absolutely certain that you would go to heaven? You can be! Click here and TRUST JESUS NOW
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FaithWriters.com Free Reprint Articles - Your place for Christian articles, Christian poems, Christian stories and much more.


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'Focus' Wins The Weekend Box Office & Knocks 'Fifty Shades Of Grey' To Fourth Place
If you feel like it's been awhile since you've seen Will Smith headlining a movie, you're right. The last time he loaned his star power to a film was 2013's After Earth, which he co-starred in with son (and notorious Jaden Smith. Now, though, he's making a comeback in Focus, a movie where Smith plays a con-artist alongside Margot Robbie, and it definitely seems like he still has it. The movie may not have gotten great reviews, but there's no stopping Smith. According to USA Today, Focus is number one at the box office this weekend, raking in a total of $19.1 million. No, it doesn't compare to Fifty Shades of Grey's $85 million opening weekend a few weeks ago over Valentine's Day, but for what was overall a slow weekend at the movies? It's not too terrible!
Speaking of Fifty, the movie is now taking up fourth place — making $10.9 million — after two consecutive weeks at number one, although it remains number one in the rest of the world, but of course, is this actually surprising considering the movie is the start of a major franchise? In second place was Kingsman: The Secret Service, and in third was The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water. Yup, a talking sponge is now making more money than Fifty Shades of Grey.What a world we live in!
Is it just me, or have movie offerings been particularly lackluster in 2015 so far? I'm holding out for Disney's live action take on Cinderella.With only two more weeks to go before its release and the power of the Frozen sequel short that airs before it, I couldn't possibly be more excited to fork over some cash for ridiculously overpriced tickets and popcorn. Is it March 13 yet?


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René low sneakers
Price €125.00
25 products
Trainers have nothing left to prove, white trainers are simply timeless. Here at M.Moustache, it was our iconic René model that convinced us. On your feet every day, these comfortable, indispensable shoes are the perfect complement to any outfit. Low-top trainers look just as good teamed with jeans or with tailored trousers. These hardwearing shoes are made in Portugal. Tennis shoes in blue, red, or mustard. Trainers play with velvet and suede to create a stylish retro look.


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But, when you come home and take a look at your photos, why is there so often a feeling of dissatisfaction? Why do the photos you take not come out how you imagined they would?
While there are many reasons for this, let me share with you one common mistake that you may suffer from.
It all starts with your eyes…and how you use them.
#Photography: How to Improve Your Photos With One Simple Change


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Watch this. The no show politician. The community has said he hasn't been here for two years. I stopped by and a door hanger of mine is on the door handle. I can only imagine how long it is been there.
Yes it's time for a change! Yes it's time to remove those who are too comfortable and no longer serve their community!
I am ready to fight for everyone in my district. I've listened and know what is important.
Joan Elizabeth Seamans for New York district 61
0 comments


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KFC opens first restaurant in Philippines built to LEED standards
KFC Philippines recently made local history when it opened its first building in the country that has been built to LEED standards in Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, according to a release.
Key features of the restaurant include:
- High efficiency air-conditioning units
- Low-emissivity glass capable of minimizing the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light while letting visible light into the restaurant
- LED lights
- Motion sensors to keep lights off in unoccupied areas of the back-of-house
The restaurant is expected to see energy savings of up to 25 percent, according to KFC. In terms of water savings, the use of high-efficiency flush fixtures reduces the amount of water usage in flush fixtures by 32 percent.
KFC Philippines is committed to promoting environmental sustainability on future projects, as the same design specifications will be applied to all succeeding free-standing drive-thru restaurants.
Yum! Brands, KFC's parent company, is a member of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). During the course of Yum's green building efforts, it has built more than 30 LEED-certified buildings across nine countries. The company's certification total was the second highest among restaurateurs as of late 2015, according to Yum.
Topics: Architectural Firms, Associations / Organizations, Certifications, Construction Firms, Consulting - Green & Sustainable Strategies and Solutions, Energy Saving Products, Engineering Firms, Great Commercial Buildings, HVAC - Heating, Cooling, and Ventilation, Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), Interiors, Lighting - Energy Efficient Lighting, Restaurants, Sustainable Communities, Sustainable Trends and Statistics, Technology, Urban Planning and Design, USGBC, Ventilation, Windows - Glass and Glazing Strategies and Systems
Companies: U.S. Green Building Council
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Chinoiserie wallpaper has seen its popularity come and go over the centuries, but it is hotter than ever right now. Chrissy Teigen and John Legend put some up in their son Miles' nursery, where they give him cuddles and eat late night McDonald's.
View this post on Instagram
This mural is called Amazonia by De Gournay, one of the design houses leading the way in Chinoiserie wallpaper.
Chinoiserie is a style of artwork and design that mimics Chinese and other East Asian art. European traders first brought Chinese wallpaper back with them in the 17th century, and it was totally unlike anything in Europe at the time. Where English wallpapers were done in neutrals and muted colors and small-scale prints, the Chinese papers were grand in scale and painted in vibrant blues, greens, and reds.
Separate ornately hand-painted panels would be joined together to cover not just a wall but an entire room in one continuous illustration. These panorama featured motifs like "bird and branches" and "figure scenes showing life and occupations in China."
Because of the detail put into them and their large scale, they would set you back a pretty pence.
For some perspective, in the mid 1700s, basic wallpaper was 9 shillings per roll (~60 square feet), and fine Chinese wallpaper was 3 pounds per panel (~36 square feet).
For those of you who aren't up to speed on your shillings to pounds conversion, I did the math for you (actually I had no idea how to convert that, so I found a website that could!). The Chinese papers were about 15 times as expensive.
Because of the high price, and also just because the Chinese papers were totally amazing, European wallpaper manufacturers produced their own versions. Thus Chinoiserie was born. They originally sought to create accurate imitations, but eventually mixed in European styles (sometimes awkwardly). No matter, though — their popularity lasted through most of the 1800s.
Today's Chinoiserie is representative of what you would've seen on the walls of the finest houses and establishments in 18th and 19th century England. Designers still use bold colors to depict curving branches, delicate birds, and small figures fishing and farming. But now they are available not exclusively as large-scale, hand-painted murals, but also digitally-printed by the roll (which won't set you back quite as many pounds).
If you do have the budget to go for the real deal, two studios currently lead the way in Chinoiserie wallpaper: Gracie and the previously mentioned De Gournay. Both still hand paint all of their papers and can customize any design to fit the exact dimensions of your walls. If you're feeling extra indulgent, you can even have the design painted on dyed silk instead of paper.
(Historical Chinoiserie info sourced from The Papered Wall, Edited by Lesley Hoskins)


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Starting this for the time being so that you can catch up on site updates while I take a self-imposed break from Twitter, Facebook and a few message boards.
-Added Ivy League TV schedule from Versus
-Patriot League and CBS Sports Network sign an extension. The Patriot League MBK Championship will now air on CBS Sports Network and at least two football games from the conference will air per season.
-Several FSN times for the Big 12 and C-USA appear to have been finalized per a production schedule. C-USA games for 9/10 and a couple Big 12 games on 9/24 and 10/1 appear to have been set.
-Updated FlexWindows spreadsheet for both FSMG and Versus
-Oklahoma vs. Texas confirmed for noon ET start for 10/8 on ABC.