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Braga, Kevin L.C.S.W.
My name is Kevin and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist. As a highly skilled and trained therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and groups, taking a collaborative approach to the treatment of anxiety, depression, substance use/misuse, and overall relationship issues. In addition, I have a special interest in working with the LGBT community. My approach draws upon Motivational, Psychodynamic and Interpersonal traditions. Subsequently, I believe what makes therapy most effective is the relational fit between the therapist and the client. I would describe myself as having an integrative approach, which varies and adapts to your unique needs, strengths, and goals for your therapy. I obtained my Masters in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University in 2006. My undergraduate degree is from the University of California, Berkeley, where I studied Psychology. I have completed several post-graduate training programs including a psychodynamic/analytic program at The Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy and a group psychotherapy training program from The Eastern Group Psychotherapy Society (EGPS). I have also had additional training in Motivational Enhancement Therapy and Integrative Harm Reduction Psychotherapy. I am a member of both the National Association of Social Workers and the American Group Psychotherapy Association.
LGBT Issues
Psychotherapy is an invaluable tool for LGBTQ-identified people. Affirmative therapy can help you improve your relationship with others and with yourself. My approach is extremely sensitive to the social stigma, and homo/bi/trans-phobia, that permeate our society and often complicate the life of those who so identify.
My practice has helped people with the coming-out process, medical and sexual health and behavior, and overall increasing of self-worth from the shame, judgment, and stigma that can sometimes plague the community.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse
I work closely with both the person currently using/abusing drugs and alcohol, and the people whom are impacted by their loved one's use. One size doesn't fit all. Are you looking to abstain from all drugs and alcohol? Great. I can assist you with that. Are you looking to cut back your current use of alcohol, to eliminate the problems it's creating in your life? Excellent. I can also help you figure that out.
I offer a self-empowering, comprehensive, and individualized approach, utilizing Integrative Harm Reduction and Motivational Enhancement Therapies.
Depression & Anxiety
Most people feel anxious or depressed at times. Going through a loss, changing jobs, divorce, or other difficult situations can lead a person to feel sad, lonely, scared, or nervous. These are normal reactions to life's many stressors. However, you may feel you experience these feelings more often, even daily, and for no apparent reason. You may find that these feelings are making it more difficult to function in your daily life. If so, it may be time to seek a professional to explore your options for potential treatment. Both of these disorders are highly treatable, either alone or together.
My approach to treatment is specifically tailored to each of my clients, however, my treatment 'lens' is through a focused, integrated approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness Based Psychotherapies.


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Enter to Win $2,500
By taking our brief survey and helping us bring the best of Bothell to you.
Now a Seattle coffee institution, Caffe Ladro opened our first location on Upper Queen Anne in 1994. People ask about the company name origin. Caffe Ladro is Italian for "coffee thief."
Ladro has always valued sustainably and ethically produced coffee. In 2000, we were the largest chain in the country serving only Fair Trade coffee. Later, in 2011, we launched Ladro Roasting. That division of the company sources green coffees through relationships with coffee farmers and millers. Then it also roasts all the coffee it purchases at our Seattle coffee roastery. Our cupping lab and training program ensure customers always receive perfection.
We offer a range of coffee blends and seasonally changing micro lot coffees at our cafés and for our wholesale partners. We happily ship coffee all over the country and world through our online store. We're profoundly dedicated to serving our customers and community.ADD TO FAVORITES
By taking our brief survey and helping us bring the best of Bothell to you.

subset: commoncrawl


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18K yellow gold
0.98 carats of pavé & baguette diamonds
Asymmetrical ĀZLEE hoops with pavé diamonds on top and baguette diamonds below. These deco-inspired hoops seem to defy gravity, with just the smallest connection joining each section of diamonds. A subtle yet unique hint of unconventional glamour makes them perfect for everyday wear.
To ensure the best experience possible, all domestic shipping fees are complementary. All shipments are sent via overnight delivery. Signature is required upon delivery. Please note your billing and shipping address must match.
All international shipments incur a flat $200 shipping fee that will be added to your total balance at checkout. For more information regarding INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING, click here.
Prices are shown in US Dollars, and we will charge your account in US Dollars. The bank that will send your wire transfer to us will determine the exchange rate
In order for Material Good to consider your return or exchange eligible, the item purchased must be in completely unused and unworn condition, in its original packaging. Material Good reserves the right to refuse any return or exchange if the item appears to be damaged or shows signs of wear, which is judged at the sole discretion of Material Good.
In-Stock fine jewelry: Products purchased which are in-stock are eligible for a return for a full refund within 7 business days from the date the product was delivered to you. All in-stock domestic online returns and exchanges for fine jewelry are subject to a restocking fee of $165. This will be applied to the original form of payment used to make the purchase.
Made-To-Order Fine Jewelry: Any finger size, bracelet or necklace length not in-stock will be considered a made-to-order piece, rendering it FINAL SALE, NON-RETURNABLE. Any alterations made to the ring renders it FINAL SALE, NON-RETURNABLE.
Made-To-Order bracelet lengths: Our in-stock bracelet length size is 6.50-6.75 inches. All other lengths are considered made-to-order. We typically carry only one length per style for non Material Good branded items.
Made-To-Order necklace lengths: Our in-stock necklace lengths are 15.5-16 inches. All other lengths are considered made-to-order. We typically carry only one length per style for non Material Good branded items.
Get In Touch
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-- Thank You For Choosing Paragon --
Douglas Westfall
These include fascinating true life experiences of Amelia Earhart, San Francisco's 1906 Earthquake & Fire, the American Civil War, Custer's Last Stand, and the Ranchos of California. His lectures come from the books he creates through his company, The Paragon Agency, Publishers and his books are offered for sale on his website: SpecialBooks.com and at book stores and shops across the nation.
Douglas has given presentations throughout the United States, Canada, The Philippines, Latin America, and Europe. As an educator, he has taught from the fourth grade through community college levels, and he offers historical presentations weekly, to grade schools for free. He chairs the Board of Trustees at the Orange Library and History Center, and the Orange County Santiago Library System, and is actively involved in the curation of historic archives and photography collections.
He also frequently donates manuscripts, photography, and artifacts to museums in California. To request a lecture on one of his stories of America's History, contact Douglas Westfall at his office, or reach him via email through his website.
Download a copy of his biography here:
To request a lecture on America's History:


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One of my favourite November activities for the kids is Disney on ice. This year is extra special as they are bringing one of our Mexican traditions and favourite character: The day of the dead and Migueelito with Disney's Pixar Coco!
This brand-new immersive ice skating experience will take place on the ice, in the air and in the seats, as performer athleticism mixes with acrobatic and aerial stunts to bring skating skills to new heights.
This all new show will include Disney-Pixar's Coco, Frozen, Moana, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Toy Story and The Little Mermaid, and will be playing in Vancouver from November 28th– December 1st
This will be Matia's first Disney on Ice experience so I'm very excited for him! Last year a friend of mine asked me if this show was more for girls, and the answer is NOT. Matias has been a toy story fan since he was born and I can't wait to see his reaction when he sees them!
Rumours said that attendees will embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook's treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic.
We will journey across the Marigold Bridge with Miguelito into the magnificent and mystical Land of the Dead. We are also going to travel to the wintry world of Arendelle and sing along with Elsa ( oh yes, I remember this from last year, Mia won't stop singing let it go for days after the show lol!)
Join this magical search and help look for clues to unlock an epic journey when Disney On Ice presents Mickey's Search Party delivers an unforgettable experience with your family!
Click Here to view the Mickey's Search Party Show Trailer
WHEN: November 28 – December 1, 2019
Thursday, November 28 7:00 PM
Friday, November 29 7:00 PM
Saturday, November 30 11:30 AM, 3:30 PM, & 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 1 11:30 AM & 3:30 PM
WHERE: Pacific Coliseum at the PNE – 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1
TICKETS: Family-friendly ticket pricing available visit www.DisneyOnIce.com
Tickets now available for purchase online at TicketLeader.ca, charge by phone at 604-252-3700
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DisneyOnIce
Twitter: @DisneyOnIce #DisneyOnIce #MickeysSearchParty
YouTube: www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce
Instagram: @DisneyOnIce


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It seems this year we can only dream of catching a nice bright Steelhead, but a few are out there even if the run in the Deschutes is not up to past years. Anyway the Trout are still about and we can enjoy the fall days stalking them.
The club has been moving right along with interesting speakers and fun outings to some new venues. Things will keep on being fun as we begin the fall of 2019.
The speaker in September was Garth Wyatt, PGE biologist, who recapped the efforts to restore the Chinook, Coho, and Steelhead runs to the Clackamas River basin. Good progress has been made which will bode well for the fishery in the future.
Next we have John Wall from Portland Fly Fishing Shop to discuss local fishing opportunities. Join us to listen to this guides thoughts.
The fish-a-long this month will be on the Deschutes where we can pursue Steelhead and Trout. Of course good food and company included. Stay tuned for more information. Also, the fish-a-long for November will be on the Kilchis River for Chum Salmon. This is an annual event and is usually a lot of fun, but is also weather dependent. Again more information to follow.
As you saw on the site we have a joint meeting with the Fly Fishing Club of Oregon. The speaker location is downtown so leave early to avoid traffic. It will be well worth the trip.
Remember our sponsors are they are the lifeblood of the club. Stop by their shops and let them know your appreciate their support. Better yet buy something or book a outing with them.
Gil Henderson


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Pursuing my dreams, I've learned, isn't just about doing what feels good in the moment. That will alienate a lot of people and you'll fizzle out.
A First-Generation American Shares Thoughts On 'Pursuing Your Passions'
If you want to pursue something creative, strip away all the visions of extrinsically-motivated end results and do it despite what the skeptics say.


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Florida Investor Hard Money Programs, to 55% ltvs
Investor Hard and Private Money
Equity Loan Programs
Specialized Florida Hard and Private money programs have been customized for Florida Real Estate Investors. Usually these are investors who have been declined by the banks and who own more than 4 properties and the banks will not help them with the loan request for a refinance or purchase loans. At AHL Hard Money Network we leverage our relationships with our hard money partners who are seeking equity driven and collateral based loans from real estate investors in Florida. If you need a 40% to 55% loan to value on your free and clear Florida rentals a refinance and close in 3 to 10 days we may be able to help you. Our Investors specialize in self employed loan programs for the real estate investor with less than prefect credit. At AHL Hard Money resources our network of private investors offer alternative and assest collateral based program tailored to each Florida investors specific financial needs.
Reasons Florida Investors Need a Florida Refinance Or Purchase Hard Money Loan .
Expand their current portfilio of rental properties
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The Banks have turned you down.
You are self employed and can't show all your income.
The banks will not accept rental income.
Your credit scores or to low.
You have had a previous short sales or recent floreclosures.
Florida Banks follow strict lending guidelines and if you dont have positive cashflow and prefect credit 700 scores the banks might turn your loan application down. Our Investors cater to the less than prefect real estate investors who need a fast, easy, no hassle streamlined Florida hard equity loan program. If you fill out our 2 minute application, get the free investor hard money programs special report, you can expect an answer or approval by our Private Money Partner withins 24 hours. This make sense underwriting approach our investors take will use other sources of income to get you deal to work like rental income, disability income, annuitiy income, pension income, bank statements the banks will not use these sources. This helps the Florida Investors get more loan approvals as the Program is focused on not a credit based approach but the EQUITY in your rental properties. Bad credit loans is our niche and our investors will always work with you for and exit strategy to improve your credit with the goal of getting you on a better loan.
Highlights of the Florida Investors Hard and Private Money Programs featured by our Investors
Equity Driven Programs on your Free N Clear Florida Rental Properties
Fast, Easy and Quick Approvals if your deal makes sense.
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Loan sizes 30k to 7 million. Case by Case basis
Close in 3 to 10 days with free and clear title
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All properties show well Pride of Ownership
Speical consideration given to lower credit scores, short sales, or foreclosures with a letter of explanation
What makes the investor program different is our investors will work with the borrower who owns more than 4 properties and will leverage all the properties under one blanket loan, a Florida investor blanket loan is using 4,7,10,15 properties and putting one mortgage a blanket over all the properties. This loan program has helped hundreds of experienced real estate Florida investors get the funds they need to purchase more properties or upgrade their current rental properties. If you or doing lite rehab under 20k and purchasing bank reos our investors will work with those investor deals as well. Investor construction loans where the property must be 65% toi 70% complete and only done on a case by case basis.
If your a mortgage broker, realtor, commercial borrowers or direct client experienced investors who owns a property in Tampa, Oralndo, Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Sarasota, West Palm Beach, Clearwater, Winter Park, Naples, Ft. Myers, Hollywood, Daytona, Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Largo, Brandon, Valrico, Boca Raton. Please take 2 mintues to fill out our short applcation, request our investor special report and our experienced investors will call you directly and give you a tailored approval usually within 24 hours or less. You deal is very important to us.


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- Population: 14.15 million people
- Electrification rate: 40.00%
- Renewable energy consumption: 75.60%
- Access to non-solid fuel: 29.65%
Source: World Bank
MUTARE, ZIMBABWE — Priscilla Mazanga coughs as she stares expressionlessly into a small crackling fire in her makeshift kitchen.
"I use firewood for cooking during power outages," says the mother of three. "Cooking is now a nightmare."
Mazanga, like many others in rural and urban Zimbabwe, now depends on wood for preparing meals during frequent electricity outages, which have become a fact of life here since ongoing droughts through 2014 and 2015 parched the rivers that supply most of the country's electricity. At the height of electricity shortages last December, some areas of the country were without electricity for up to 20 hours a day.
Under such conditions, people turn to alternatives like firewood (or worse) to meet their daily energy needs. Mazanga, who ekes out a living selling small wares on the streets of Zimbabwe's eastern border city of Mutare, admits she has resorted to using dirty plastic to make her cooking fires. "Life is really tough. I finish my work late in the night and when there is no electricity I have to make a fire and cook for my children."
Fears are growing in Zimbabwe that the rising number of people resorting to primitive fuels will result in a spike of deaths related to bad household air. Exposure to indoor air pollution from cooking is the fourth leading risk factor for disease across the developing world, exceeding mortality associated with malaria and tuberculosis. According to the World Health Organization, in 2012, up to 4.3 million people across the developing world die each year from household air pollution — including from strokes, heart disease and more than half of all pneumonia deaths in children under five. Much of this death toll can be prevented with better access to clean energy.
In Zimbabwe, up until recently, much of that clean energy came from hydro power.
Inside an African hydro crisis
In 2011 hydro accounted for about 60 per cent of Zimbabwe's [annotate info="Total installed electrical capacity is the maximum electric output that a system is designed to produce. According to the US Energy Information Administration, Zimbabwe had a total electricity installed capacity of 2.0 gigawatts in 2012."]total installed electrical capacity[/annotate], but there are dire challenges on the horizon. A drop in water levels at the Kariba Dam on the Zambezi River in north Zimbabwe (and many smaller hydro facilities across the country) has been attributed to the effects of climate change and El Niño, sparking a debate about the country's dependence on hydroelectricity generation.
El Niño is a recurring natural phenomenon that's triggered by warming surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, on an irregular basis, usually every two to seven years. As warming oceans are among the consequences of climate change, it's likely we'll see an increased frequency of extreme El Niño events. In this way, climate change is "loading the dice" for more extreme weather, including El Niño.
Experts have linked the 2015-16 drought in Zimbabwe and other countries in southern Africa to the El Niño weather phenomenon — which they say has been intensified by climate change. Zimbabwe's drought during the 2014-15 farming season was not induced by El Niño, but solely by climate change.[/factbox]
By the end of January 2016, the Kariba dam was generating at roughly half its capacity (less than 400 megawatts instead of the installed capacity of 750 MW). This year alone, water levels have declined to 12 per cent of its full capacity.
That's a serious problem because the country needs 2,200 MW at peak consumption to meet demand, but is currently only capable of generating about half of that (around 1,300 MW). By January this year, Zimbabwe was importing 300 MW from South Africa, which resulted in an improvement in electricity supply. But the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority is now planning to increase electricity tariffs by 49 per cent from US 9.86 cents to 14.69 cents per kilowatt hour. (The power utility said the hike, still in the planning stages, will be necessary because Zimbabwe is forced to pay much higher prices for the imported electricity than it is charging to local consumers.)
Many other sub-Saharan African countries are facing similar dilemmas. "Most of the countries in sub-Saharan Africa depend on hydro power for their electricity needs," wrote Ugandan energy expert Barnabas Nawangwe in a news release from The Competitiveness Institute. "The fall in levels of lakes and drying up of rivers has meant that the generation capacity has fallen drastically. Many countries have been forced to purchase and operate [fossil fuel] thermal generators, which has led to an escalation of electricity tariffs," Nawangwe said.
Nawangwe warned that climate change has made an already bad situation for competitiveness of African businesses even worse.
Stark choices: irrigation or electricity?
As the droughts bite deeper, privately-owned small hydro power plants in Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands have been hard hit by water shortages. [annotate info='The Chipendeke and the neighbouring Himalaya hydropower project are part of a sustainable energy initiative spearheaded by Hivos, Zimbabwe Regional Environment Organization, Practical Action and the Zimbabwe Energy Council.']One such hydro power station is Chipendeke, located about 70 kilometres south of the eastern city of Mutare near the Mozambique border.[/annotate]
On a late January visit to the 25 kilowatt capacity Chipendeke hydro station, up Himalaya Mountain in the Eastern Highlands, the water levels on the Chitora River (which supplies water to the hydro facility) were so low that electricity generation had been temporarily suspended. A small building that houses the plant's power turbines was under lock and key; the generator was switched off.
Phillip Muwungani, a resident of the Chipendeke village, , confirmed that the hydro station had been shut down on Jan. 27 due to low river water levels. "We use the same water for irrigation and electricity power generation," he said. "We are using the little water available to irrigate our crops."
Another villager in the same area, Joseph Nakai, said the power outage had affected a local school, clinic and business centre. "We hope things will improve if we receive some rain. The clinic needs electricity to preserve medicines," he said.
Elijah Ngwarati, who resides in the same area, said the future of hydro power in this area does not look bright. "The future is gloomy. We hope the rains will come soon."
The stunting human impact of energy poverty
While energy demand continues to rise in Zimbabwe, the International Energy Agency estimates that 40 per cent of the population (this is a national average) has access to electricity, dropping to just 21 per cent in rural areas. This shortfall in energy has a debilitating effect on virtually all sectors of the economy.
"Energy for lighting is poor in households, schools and health institutions," said Amy Wickham, a Climate Change Officer with UNICEF Zimbabwe. "Poor quality light affects studying period for children especially during the evening, contributing to poor academic performance. It has been reported that some children have been forced to burn old rubber slippers to get lighting," she said.
Wickham said a lack of funds and limited available technology is limiting access to sustainable energy in remote rural areas. She added that a transition toward reliable energy for cooking is a complex issue, because cooking cannot be viewed in isolation from lack of access to basic health, education and information services.
The path forward?
Gloria Magombo, CEO at the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority, said the country needs at least US$9 billion to increase national power generation to a target amount of 5,000 MW by 2030.
It is now the government's goal to produce 300 MW from renewable energy sources by 2018; with international help, the country hopes to push clean energy research and financing forward.
Projects to be complete by 2018 include the Hwange Thermal Power Station extension (coal powered), small thermal repowering projects (plants used when there is high electricity demand or during a power outage), Kariba South Power Station extension (hydro), the Gairezi hydroelectric plant and more solar power plants not yet started.
Within two years Zimbabwe hopes to generate about 20 per cent of its electricity from solar, although this is not without challenges.Within two years Zimbabwe hopes to generate about 20 per cent of its electricity from solar, although this is not without challenges. "The problem is that [solar] storage is very costly and has a limited life span at present," said economist and elected official for Bulawayo South Eddie Cross. "Therefore we will still have to rely on coal for our [annotate info='The power required to satisfy the minimum demand']base load[/annotate] and perhaps gas."
Cross added that, despite droughts, hydro remains the least costly option. The Kariba dam produces power at US 1.5 cents a kilowatt hour, while coal costs eight to 12 cents and solar is 20 to 30 cents. "Providing we use hydro as a peak supplier and not as base load, we should be okay at 85 per cent of the water in the Zambezi River (Kariba Dam)."
A wider African energy crisis
Zimbabwe is not alone in facing an energy crisis driven by climate change-induced droughts.
Neighbouring Zambia and Tanzania have been particularly affected by what is a regional energy crisis. A recent article from South Africa's Independent Online Business reported that the 2015 drought left the three countries generating far below their capacity because of low water levels in the catchment areas feeding hydro plants.
Tanzania was forced to shut down all of its hydroelectric generation in October 2015 due to fears that the generator turbines would be damaged by air entering the systems. The country has since launched a US$1.33-billion project to pipe natural gas to the city of Dar es Salaam to alleviate power shortages in the city.
Zambia is by far the most dependent on hydro, generating 90 per cent of its electricity from three hydroelectric power plants at Kariba (both Zimbabwe and Zambia use this dam for electricity), Kafue Gorge and Victoria Falls. (Tanzania receives about 60 per cent of their electricity supply from hydro.) In late January of this year, Zambia's power utility ZESCO Limited was forced to cut electricity generation to a quarter of capacity at the Kariba hydropower plant due to low water levels. To date, the power crisis has also affected the mining industry operating in the country.
"We have a power deficit of 630 MW as of January 2016," said ZESCO spokesperson Henry Kapata in a recent interview. "We expect this to reduce to below 160 [MW] by August 2016 as mitigation measures are put in place."
These mitigation measures include adding power imports and establishing a 300 MW coal-fired plant due to start output in June. This adds to the reliance on coal for electricity, which as of this writing stands at about 40 per cent.
Climate change impact on electricity a global issue
Climate change impacts on rivers and streams may substantially reduce electricity production capacity globally, according to a [annotate info='Worldwide Electricity Production Vulnerable to Climate and Water Resource Change International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), Austria and Wageningen University, Netherlands http://www.nature.com/nclimate/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nclimate2903.html']recent study[/annotate], and it's not just hydro generation that could be threatened.
In a wake-up call to the world, the researchers called for a greater focus on climate change adaptation efforts in order to maintain future energy security. "Hydropower plants and thermoelectric power plants—whether nuclear, fossil-, and biomass-fueled plants converting heat to electricity—all rely on fresh water from rivers and streams," wrote lead International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) researcher Michelle van Vliet. "These power-generating technologies strongly depend on water availability, and water temperature for cooling plays in addition a critical role for thermoelectric power generation."
The researchers crunched data from 24,515 hydro and 1,427 thermoelectric plants around the world, and found that climate change impacts, and associated changes in water resources, could lead to reductions in electricity production capacity for more than 60 per cent of the power plants worldwide from 2040-69. According to the study, hydro power and thermoelectric power currently contribute to 98 per cent of electricity production worldwide.
"This is the first study of its kind to examine the linkages between climate change, water resources, and electricity production on a global scale. We clearly show that [thermoelectric] power plants are not only causing climate change, but they might also be affected in major ways by climate," said IIASA Energy Program Director and study co-author Keywan Riahi.
The study identified southern Africa, the United States, southern South America, central and southern Europe, Southeast Asia and south Australia as particularly vulnerable regions because declines in mean annual stream flow are projected, combined with large increases in water temperature under changing climate.
"In order to sustain water and energy security in the next decades, the electricity focus will need to increase on climate change adaptation in addition to mitigation."[end]
We welcome your ideas. Get in touch.


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I can't hear that John Mayer song without thinking about our four daughters and not just because they'll probably choose my nursing home.
The Lovely Marianne and I managed to have four daughters in three years. We had three of those kids in just 13 months. OK, so we cheated the last time around with twins, but still.
Erin, our youngest by five minutes (she's a twin), took an interest in the heating business and went on to buy HeatingHelp.com and the rights to my books from TLM and me. She's better at it than I ever was, and she sees things in the industry that I missed. I'm so proud of her.
I'm also proud of the others, but in different ways. They're all very successful in their fields. They married good guys and we now have all these adorable grandkids knocking things over, but the heating bug bit only Erin. I'm blessed by that because we got to keep the family business in the family and I'm having a ball watching her do the things she's doing. I also like the checks she sends us each month.
Meghan, who is 13 months older than her twin sisters, works for the United States Agency for International Development and travels the world trying her best to keep tuberculosis from showing up in the U.S. We're supposed to be done with that horrible disease, but it's always as close to us as the next arriving commercial jet from an African nation or the Philippines. Growing up, I had no idea Meg would choose this as her life's work, but it serves to remind me that no matter the plans we have for our kids, they will become who they will become. I raised all four daughters with delicious tales of the heating industry, but only Erin's eyes lit up.
After college, Meg joined World Teach for a couple years and went off to teach little kids in a tiny village in the mountains of Costa Rica. She lived with a very poor host family and learned Spanish quickly. One day, I asked her how they heated their water for the shower.
"I don't know," she said.
"Well, I'm curious, Meg. Could you find out?"
A day later, she sent me a photo of an electric showerhead that plugged into an outlet.
With an extension cord.
In the shower.
"Are they crazy?" I asked.
"What do you mean?" she asked. "They said that's how everyone in the village heats the water. I mean those who can afford it."
You know those electric heaters you drop into a cup of water to make instant coffee? Yep, that's how this showerhead worked.
"Meg," I said. "Do you think you could unplug that and just take cold showers?"
"Dad, you're being silly."
When she was a junior at The College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass, she lived on Caro St., with lots of other students. She was very excited about this move because Caro St., is slightly off campus and the place where the parties were. She and her five friends had put in their names two years earlier to get the privilege of living in a three-story Irish Battleship, built, or so it seemed to me, without a level or a plumb line. When I was moving her furniture in that summer, I noticed the building had no heating system.
"You're being silly, Dad. This is Worcester. It gets really cold here. There must be a heating system."
"There isn't, Meg. Trust me."
"That's crazy, Dad. There must be."
You know what it was? The stove in the kitchen. That was the heating system for the whole floor. The landlord told them to keep the doors between the rooms open and use fans to blow the heat around.
"Even the bathroom door?" Meg asked.
"Sure," he said. "You're all girls."
Meg and her roommates were OK with all this and the parties were good enough to draw the Worcester Police each weekend. I suppose this dump was good preparation for the Death Shower of Costa Rica.
The New York life
When she had enough Pura Vida in that tropical country, she returned home and moved into an apartment in Manhattan with one of her college roommates. They lived on the fifth floor of this old tenement that had steam heat from the 19th century. She called me one day to tell me there was a noise coming out of the "little silver thingy" that stuck out of the side of the pipe in their kitchen. At least she thought it was a pipe. "It's hot."
"Who is this?" I said.
"It's me, Dad. Meghan? Your favorite daughter?"
"Little silver thingy?"
"Yes. The noisy silver thingy. On the hot thing. It's noisy. Why?"
"Who is this?"
So be good to your daughters, but don't be surprised if they have no idea how a building stays warm.
But then, in fairness, I know nothing of TB.
To each her own.
Meg married John, a mechanical engineer, which was a blessing. John's job has him traveling to foreign countries to project-manage HVAC systems as complicated as John Mayer's social calendar.
Our John was off ministering to one of those systems, so The Lovely Marianne and I stayed with Meg and the two grandkids for 10 days when the wind was rattling Bethesda, Md., and even the thermometers were shivering. They live in a rented townhouse. It's a lovely place for three of the seasons. Not so lovely during the winter.
The two-story townhouse has a heat pump.
The heat pump has one thermostat.
It's downstairs.
Hot air rises.
So there we were, sitting on the couch on a day when even sunlight was freezing. Upstairs, where everyone slept, was sort of OK if you had enough blankets. Sort of.
Downstairs was like a meat locker. The curtains were moving because Bethesda contractors don't know what caulking is. The wind was clawing its way under the door and through that ridiculous mail slot in the door's center. John had stuffed insulation in the hole but the wind just laughed at that.
"Are you cold, Dad?"
"No, Meg. I'm fine," I lied, not wanting to add to her already-high electric bill. She asked this because I was wearing all the clothes I owned.
"We'd love to buy one of these townhouses. It's so convenient to the stores and the Metro," Meg said.
"What are they asking for these?"
"About six-hundred thousand," she said. "It's out of our price range, but we can dream."
That's what they get for these drafty iceboxes. Because it's convenient to the stores and the Metro. No insulation or caulking, but convenient to warm things that can get you away from it.
I sat there shivering and thinking about how oblivious most Americans are when it comes to HVAC, and how marble countertops and soaring ceilings will always win out over well-planned building envelopes and delicious hydronic-heating systems.
The reason the frigid countertops win is because most Americans are blind to the mechanical features of a home. That stuff hides in basements and closets. They don't see it. They feel it when it's not working, sure, but they don't see it. And sight always beats touch. So does sound. Meg didn't notice the little silver thingy on the hot thing until it started whistling at her.
We raised four wonderful daughters in the same house, treating them equally. One out of the four had an interest in the stuff that interests you and me. The other three, as brilliant as they are, rarely wonder about how it all works. Why is it warm (or supposed to be warm) indoors when it's so cold outside? How does all that happen? Who cares?
It's just the nature of people, and our daughters are your customers. We all have different talents and different interests, and as I said, I know nothing about tuberculosis. That's Meg's specialty.
I do have to admit, though, that when she called the Hoffman Specialty #40 steam air vent a "little silver thingy," I did consider taking her out of the will.
But then that nursing-home decision lurks.


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|Washoku Goen @ VivoCity
Washoku Goen ('WG') is a Japanese stall located in Food Republic Outlet in VivoCity and Wisma Atria. Established itself in Singapore since January 2015, Washoku Goen has a reputation for serving gigantic katsu portion and delicious Japanese Curry Rice.
|The Menu
Since their opening, they have consistently adding variety to their menu. WG have just introduced Sumibiyaki - Japanese charcoal grill. After you placed your order, the grill master will do the hard work for you and grill the meat to perfection. There are two type of sauce you can choose from Japanese BBQ (using eel sauce) or Singa BBQ (using local flavour).
|Sumibiyaki - Japanese Charcoal Grill - Chicken
We decided to order Japanese BBQ Menu, Sumibi Yakiton Juu ($6.80). The chicken is well marinated, with a sweet flavour sauce. It is tender and coated with smokey charcoal BBQ flavour. The proportion of rice and chicken are huge. Good Value.
|Sumibi Yakiton Juu
On top of that, we also tried Ultimate Original Curry Rice ($19.90). This consist of Fish Katsu, Tonkasu, Chicken Katsu, Sumibi Beef, Croquette and Half Boil Egg, on top of huge plate of rice and curry sauce. This suppose to be good to fill the stomach for 2 to 3 person, but I think it can feed 4 pax easily.
|Ultimate Original Curry Rice
To start, we dig in to the Katsu: Fish Katsu, Tonkatsu and Chicken Katsu. We must agree, the size of both the chicken katsu and fish katsu are huge. Each of them almost as big as my two palms combined. The fish is tender and flaky. While the chicken is juicy and succulent. For tonkatsu, they use the lean part of the pork instead of the fatty one. So it is a bit dry and harder compare to the chicken katsu, bur from price point, it is pretty good.
|Fish Katsu
The one that catch my attention is the Sumibi Beef. It is tender, succulent, perfectly grilled filled with smokey flavour. The croquette is crispy on the outside while soft in the inside. While the egg is nicely boiled where the yolk will ooze out when it cuts into half.
|Sumibi Beef, Tonkatsu, Chicken Katsu and Half boil egg
Meanwhile the portion of the rice and curry are just to big for two of us to finish. The curry is robust and flavourful. It is thick but not sticky, with a hint of smoky flavour as well.
FYI, we tabao (packed) half of the katsu + 3/4 of the rice home because we were to full to eat it all. So imagine the Ultimate size.
Overall, We find the portion of the food served are extremely generous. The food is delicious and definitely worth the try. Kanpai!! Cheers!!
Thanks to Washoku Goen Team & WCC Solutions Team for the tasting invitation.
Food & Drink: 7/10
Value: 8.5/10
Service: N/A
Ambiance: N/A
Budget per Person: $0 – 10; $11 - $25
Washoku GOEN
1 Harbourfront Walk
#03-01 Food Republic (Stall 23)
Singapore 098585
Sun – Thu: 10.00 – 22.00
Fri, Sat & Eve PH: 10.00 – 22.30
Other Outlet
Udon GOEN @ Wisma Atria
435 Orchard Road
Wisma Atria
#04-02/38 Food Republic (Stall 11)
Singapore 238877
Sun – Thu: 10.00 – 22.00Fri, Sat & Eve PH: 10.00 – 23.00


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I am going to post a few comments by Walt Disney artists that were originally published in an issue of Storyboard Magazine from 1993. The topic is mostly about their relationship with Walt.
At the time these essays were submitted to the magazine by the artists, and as far as I know are unedited.
Ollie drew these charming sketches at his home in Flintridge around 1963.


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New ETFs for Canadian traders and investors
By Jack Chan at www.simplyprofits.org
January 11, 2007
Leveraged and inversed ETFs have come to Canada. Horizon Beta Pro launched two ETFs yesterday using the S&P/TSX 60 Index as the underlying index. Following is a summary of terms:
Horizon BetaPro 60 Bull + ETF
Symbol: HXU
Horizon BetaPro 60 Bear + ETF
Symbol: HXD
These two ETFs effectively eliminate the trouble trading the related Betapro funds, which has an early cut off time, and early redemption fees. As ETFs become more mainstream in Canada for Canadians, I expect more ETFs to be launched in the soon future for metals, energy, and tech. This will help to supplement our current Cdn ETFs such as XGD and XEG, and finally a chance to play the short side using a Cdn ETF.
$SPTSE – currently on TLBSS. Traders should be short or in cash.
This index comprises of energy, metals, financials, transportation, and growth stocks, therefore, similar to our energy and gold sector cycles, but could lead or lag sometimes. The $BPTSE will help to confirm the buy/sell signals within this index just like our BP cycle charts confirming the three sectors of energy, gold and tech.
HXU.TO – the leveraged bull ETF.
HXD.TO – the leveraged bear ETF.
January 11, 2007
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September 21st, 2023
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25-year old Iranian-American rap megastar Sharia 2 Dope lit up the stage yesterday at a sold out concert in Queefingham, New York. Known for blockbuster hits like : "Hate Bacon, Ain't Fakin", and "Mohammed Is Just Alright With Me", the icon took a moment out of his performance to wax poetic about Democratic Presidential candidate Kamala Harris. During a ten minute diatribe he told audience members he was "100 P" behind her run, and referred to her as : "Allah's messenger in America."
Born in Al Mxyltlpk, Iran, Sharia (Real name Numpsy Shamon), emigrated with his mother in 1999 to Minnesota after hearing the Prince song : "1999" for the first time and believing it to be a message from God. A straight-A student, young Numpsy became fascinated with rap music and the giants of the genre, including Coolio, Kriss-Kross, Wang Chung, and Queen Laquifa. Seeing an opportunity to spread a calming influence after 9/11, he took the stage name M.C. Picklebitch, and later changed to Sharia 2 Dope after being threatened with a lawsuit by a different M.C. Picklebitch in New Jersey.
As a performer, 2 Dope admits to espousing his personal politics in his raps. His 2016 hit "Kick Trump In Da Ballz" for instance, contains a devastating critique of the President, as does his later single : "Racist President Slap My Dick", which shot up the charts to number three within a week.
It stands to reason that with millions of albums sold and a huge fan base, the artist's endorsement could go a long way with the Millenial voting crowd. Will Harris see a "Sharia Bump?" I got five on it.


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Seamless coordinate your Road Show activities in a organization-wide format to ensure the smooth running of your events. Our Road Show Manager can interface with the main CRM of your organization to give users a simple one-stop solution that keeps all data, decision making and resource directories coordinated and readily available to the various participants on demand wherever in the world they may be. Planning, Invites, Scheduling, Travel Bookings, Local Resource Directories and Reporting all integrated in 1 simple app that keeps your entire team connected at all times.
The ePlatform is a powerful 1-stop Sales Force Automation Tool. The system combines Customer Relationship Management (CRM) functionalities with a powerful Content Management (CMS). This helps keep all customer interactions from planning to execution to reporting in 1 easy-to-manage place.
ICMM is an event management tool which enables the host bank to smoothly schedule numerous meetings with rapid response times to real world changes as they occur. The application uses a complex algorithm to handle conflicts, automates key tasks and presents the user with a very simple interface to manage their event.


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MH Educational Specialist of the Year Named
February 3, 2015
Mr. Jonathan Roman is a highly regarded guidance counselor here at Morris Hills, and his hard work and formidable efforts have lead to his being named the first Educational Specialist of the Year. This is Mr. Roman's fourth year at Morris Hills after working for two years in Roxbury. Having graduated from Morris Hills, Mr. Roman is familiar with its campus and even some of its staff when he transferred here. According to him, this high school is home, and its staff and student body "like family". However, the award still took him by surprise and he explained, "I heard the same time as everyone did. I actually couldn't really hear my name being announced because I was helping a student at the time."
Mr. Roman didn't always want to become a guidance counselor; in fact, he started off majoring in pre-law in college. It was once he joined The Impact Project, a private children and youth agency, that he really decided which direction he wanted to go with his future. With that program, he was able to help inner-city students get back on track under probation. He also worked with kids at a day camp in his spare time. These experiences influenced him to take a different career path and brought him to where he is today.
Being a guidance counselor can be challenging; dealing with so many students makes for very busy days. Mr. Roman said his motivation lay in "being able to work individually with kids and watch them change and grow from freshmen until they are graduating seniors."
When not working, Mr. Roman enjoys working out. He runs every morning before work and also coaches the schools boys JV soccer team. He states that these activities "relieve a lot of stress" throughout the day. As a guidance counselor committed to his work and to the students he helps, Mr. Roman is the most deserving recipient of the Educational Specialist of the Year award. As a school and a family, we applaud Mr. Roman for his hard work and dedication.


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Please enter a keyword and click the arrow to search the site
Or explore one of the areas below
Executive Fellow of Finance
PhD (Berkeley)
Stan Beckers is Executive Fellow and Chair of the AQR Asset Management Institute at London Business School and Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Risk Committee at Rothesay Life in London. He was until April 2017 member of the Management Board of NN Group and CEO of NN Investment Partners (previously known as ING Investment Management). He has more than 30 years of professional and leadership experience in global finance and asset management with organizations such as BlackRock, Barclays Global Investors, Kedge Capital and WestAM. Stan was also one of the early partners at BARRA (now MSCI BARRA) where he started and ran the non-US operations for 20 years.
Over the years, Stan Beckers has served as a member of the investment committee of several pension funds and on the supervisory boards of KAS Bank and Robeco in the Netherlands. He has taught at various Universities such as UC Berkeley, VU Amsterdam, Cass Business School, London School of Economics and KULeuven. Stan has published over 50 papers in various academic journals such as The Journal of Finance, JFQA, The Financial Analysts Journal and The Journal of Portfolio Management.


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Thermography applications
Infrared thermography, a fast, non-invasive and objective skin temperature measurement technology, can provide information about the physiology status from a subject and his different body regions and structures (Vainer, 2009)
Technological advances in infrared cameras have allowed for a resurgence of investigation in the sport sector, enhancing new and old applications, such as the following: clothing design, detection of lactate threshold, DOMS, biomechanical imbalances or fitness condition, among others (Fernández Cuevas et al., 2017)
Nevertheless, there are three of them that are closely related to concept of injury:
- Before: Prevention. Thermal asymmetries on regions of interest (ROIs) could show a potential injury risk due to factors related to workload assimilation, biomechanics, tissue physiology and nerve dysfunction. Once we detect them we can easily intervent to reduce the thermal asymmetry (Corte et al, 2019)
- During: Diagnosis support. Infrared Thermography should not be used as a diagnosis tool standalone, but it can help identifying injury type based on thermal behaviour. Based on the injury type the skin thermal reaction can be hypo or hyperthermia (Sillero quintana, 2015)
- After: injury follow-up. Some of those thermal asymmetries last during the recovery time. If we quantify them we will be able to check the right evolution, speed up recovery time and objectify return to play decisions. Besides, we can avoid collateral injury risk due to potential compensation (Piñonosa et al., 2013)
Côrte, A. C., Pedrinelli, A., Marttos, A., Souza, I. F. G., Grava, J., & José Hernandez, A. (2019). Infrared thermography study as a complementary method of screening and prevention of muscle injuries: pilot study. BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine, 5(1), e000431. doi: 10.1136/bmjsem-2018-000431
Fernández-Cuevas, I., Arnáiz Lastras, J., Escamilla Galindo, V., & Gómez Carmona, P. (2017). Infrared Thermography for the Detection of Injury in Sports Medicine. In J. I. Priego Quesada (Ed.), Application of Infrared Thermography in Sports Science (pp. 81-109). Cham, Switzerland: Springer International Publishing.
Fernández-Cuevas, I. (2019). Aplicación de la termografнa infrarroja para la prevención, seguimiento de lesiones y apoyo al diagnóstico en el deporte y la salud. Paper presented at the 15º Congreso Internacional de Ciencias del Deporte y la Salud, Pontevedra, Spain.
Piñonosa, S., Sillero-Quintana, M., Milanović, L., Coterón, J., & Sampedro, J. (2013). Thermal evolution of lower limbs during a rehabilitation process after anterior cruciate ligament surgery. Kinesiology, 45(1), 121-129.
Vainer, B. G. (2009). The use of infrared thermography for the investigation of thermoregulation in humans. In A. B. Cisneros & B. L. Goins (Eds.), Body temperature regulation (pp. 123-153): Nova Science Publishers, Inc.


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A front will bring a narrow line of gusty downpours through the Finger Lakes tonight, followed by another round of very strong wind on Wednesday.
Evening Weather Forecast: March 7 Audio Transcript
This is Finger Lakes Weather meteorologist Drew Montreuil with your Tuesday evening weather forecast update for March 7th, 2017.
Another batch of rain has cleared out of the Finger Lakes and the next few hours should be primarily dry and quiet. However, the region is not done with the rain quite yet.
A narrow band of heavy downpours and gusty winds will develop along a cold front that will push through the Finger Lakes before midnight tonight. This line of rain and wind should move through Rochester just before 10 pm, Geneva and Penn Yan by 11 pm, and Ithaca, Cortland, and Syracuse around Midnight.
The front may be preceded by an hour or two of steadier showers, especially across the eastern Finger Lakes, with temperatures remaining near or above 50 degrees. Behind the front, temperatures will quickly tumble through the 40s and into the upper 30s. A couple more hours of showers are likely, and some snow may mix in over higher elevations with a dusting possible.
A few intermittent showers will be possible on Wednesday as well, but the big story will be the wind. Wind Advisories and Warnings are in place for the entire FLXWeather area with the strongest gusts, in excess of 50 mph, expected across northwestern areas.
Check back Wednesday morning for more details on the wind and the gradual slide in temperature to end the week. Have a nice evening.


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Incentive travel has always been about offering experiences that qualifiers typically couldn't arrange—or afford—on their own. But today that means more than a group dinner on the Great Wall. Your attendees want personal, authentic, unique experiences where they can snap selfies and share their awesomeness on Facebook and Twitter.
During this webinar learn about the move to an experience economy and hear other IRF research regarding the experiences people seek. Garner ideas as you see personalized experiences that have been created for a variety of events.


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WAMC Morning Edition Sports Update
Most of the NFL's top stars have taken part in another high-scoring Pro Bowl game in Honolulu. The best of the NFC won the annual encounter, beating the stars from the AFC 62-35. The NFC point total is a Pro Bowl record. Minnesota tight end Kyle Rudolph was voted the game's MVP with 122 yards and a touchdown. Checking the NBA the Celtics beat the visiting Heat 100-98 in double overtime to snap a six-game losing streak. Paul Pierce hit a go-ahead jumper with 31 seconds left and finished with a triple-double of 17 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists. Kevin Garnett had 24 points and 11 rebounds for the winners.
Afterwards, Boston players were told that All-Star guard Rajon Rondo will miss the rest of the season due to a severe injury to his right knee. He was injured in Friday's double-overtime loss to Atlanta.
Carmelo Anthony tied a franchise record with nine 3-pointers, then converted a go-ahead, three-point play with 12.5 seconds left to cap a 42-point night and lead the New York Knicks to a 106-104 victory over Atlanta. The Hawks shot a season-high 60 percent from the field but had their three-game winning streak snapped when Josh Smith, burned on Anthony's basket, missed a 3-pointer on Atlanta's final possession.
Elsewhere the L-A Lakers beat Oklahoma City 105-96.
Detroit 104, Orlando 102. New Orleans bested Memphis 91-83.
Dallas won against Phoenix 110-95. And the L-A clippers defeated Portland 96-83. In the NHL Winnipeg edged ahead of the NY islanders 5-4. Washington slid past Buffalo 3-2. Pittsburg beat Ottawa 2-1. St. Louis 5, Minnesota 4. Montreal 4, New Jersey 3. Tampa Bay blew out Philadelphia 5-1. And Chicago topped Detroit 2-1.
In top 25 College Basketball 2nd ranked Michigan shut out Illinois 74-60.
7th ranked Indiana defeated 13th Michigan St. 75-70. And 25th ranked Miami took on and defeated Florida St. 71-47.
And finally the Australian Open is over and it came to an end with Novak Djokovic winning an Open era-record third-straight title.


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How slimmed-down websites can cut their carbon emissions - BBC News
Interesting to see an article on web performance on the BBC. Perhaps we should be emphasising green over speed?
Behind the scenes, animation and interaction effects were added using HTML and CSS, two fundamental web languages. That meant there was no need to download large JavaScript files often used to do this on other sites.


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It's hard to argue that anyone does nautical style better than the chic inhabitants of the Côte d'Azur and French Riviera. So, whether you're kitting out your own superyacht or planning décor to appeal to charter clients, you could do much worse than channel a little interiors inspiration from Europe's most glamorous seaside destination.
An open-ended and highly flexible design genre that can be adapted to suit a huge range of tastes, colour palettes and boat layouts, Riviera style should capture the allure, sophistication and carefree elegance of the Mediterranean coastline. For obvious reasons, blues of all shades are key for a Riviera-style interior. Begin with your favourite hue and mix in patterns, bolder bright colours and more complimentary tones to build up a mood board. This is especially useful for choosing bed linens and, if you are having bespoke furniture made, upholstery fabric. Dedar's understated Basquette print fabric (£111.50/metre, dedar.com) is ideal for both saloons and sun decks.
For larger pieces of saloon furniture opt for bold shapes instead of prints - Amy Somerville's turquoise velvet bar stools (£3,475, amysomerville.com) find just the right balance between comfort and style – and choose bright cushions for added interest. It's hard to go wrong with a classic Breton stripe but for something with a little more impact mix and match fellow superyacht owner Roberto Cavalli's statement butterflies (£179, harrods.com) with Missoni's signature pastel chevrons (£175, selfridges.com). When it comes to beach club or poolside furniture, bolder, more creative pieces are ideal. Ralph Lauren's nautical-striped tray stand (£995, ralphlaurenhome.com) couldn't be more perfect for holding mid-afternoon sun lounger cocktails.
The classic American designer is, in fact, something of a go-to for yacht-ready interior furnishings. The aptly named Ralph Lauren Porte de Riviera collection features everything from stationary to sofas with a seaworthy edge but it is the new Côte d'Azur Batik dinnerware (£80 for four piece set, ralphlaurenhome.com) that has caught our eye this season. Pair with crisp white linen napkins, simple silver cutlery and Alessi's magnificent deep blue Joy n.1 centrepiece by Claudia Raimondo (£73, alessi.com) filled with fresh flowers to create a table that will turn even the most casual of lunches into a special occasion.
Of course, nowhere is Riviera style more appropriate than the superyacht bathroom. Intersperse gleaming white tiles with decorative flourishes in navy, sky blue and sunset orange and kit every bathroom out with the softest, fluffiest white towels you can find (finished with your yacht insignia, of course). As a generous finishing touch place one Ville & Campagne gift box (£29.50, villeetcampagne.com), containing three French scented soaps, a striped cotton washbag and pure cotton face towel, per guest in each cabin as a stylish reminder of your impeccable taste.


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United States Glanert, Bruch, Smetana: Katia Labèque, Marielle Labèque (pianos), Cleveland Orchestra / Semyon Bychkov (conductor), Severance Hall, Cleveland, Ohio, 9.5.2019. (MSJ)
Detlev Glanert – Weites Land: Musik mit Brahms (2013)
Bruch – Concerto for Two Pianos Op.88a
Smetana – Three Symphonic Poems from Má Vlast: Vyšehrad, Vltava (Die Moldau), Šárka
It is often interesting to hear forgotten byways of the repertory, particularly ones that disappeared for a period of time. I wish I could report that the restored original version of Max Bruch's Concerto for Two Pianos provided a notable diversion, but it does not, despite the game advocacy of sisters Katia and Marielle Labèque. Three of the work's four movements would be suitable enough for generic background music, because other than a vague warmth, they supply even less interest than the composer's two violin concertos — neither of which ranks high in my pantheon.
Only the third movement rises to a more communicative plane. Warmly romantic, the movement would stand nicely on its own outside the concerto, which Bruch adapted from his Third Orchestral Suite. For many years, only a simplified version of the concerto's solo parts was heard, as arranged by the original dedicatees, Rose and Ottilie Sutro. But in the 1970s, the original parts were discovered and published.
The Labèques have nothing to fear from the greater technical demands of the original solo parts, though all too often Bruch gives them little more than decoration and scales — lots of scales. The sisters were supported ably by guest conductor Semyon Bychkov and the Cleveland Orchestra. Suffice it to say, however, that the Labèques' encore, 'Le Jardin Feerique' from Ravel's Mother Goose Suite had more substance in its three minutes than its predecessor had in almost thirty.
Much more interesting was the opening, Weites Land: Musik mit Brahms (2013) from Detlev Glanert, a German composer little-known in the United States. Evoking 'the Brahmsian smell of marshland and wide skies' in northern Germany, the piece starts with gestures derived from Brahms's Fourth Symphony, but takes them different places, brooding in a richly cinematic manner. While the majority of the score is lyrical, there is also a considerable tension that at times erupts in a more angular manner. It is the sort of music to which any listener can imagine his or her own story, quite independent of the Brahmsian roots. It certainly whetted the appetite for more from the composer, and Bychkov was a strong and convincing advocate.
In recent years, the Russian-born conductor has been directing the Czech Philharmonic, to considerable acclaim. He closed this concert with a portion of a Czech classic, the first three sections of Smetana's patriotic cycle Má Vlast (My Fatherland), a set of six Lisztian tone poems.
Bychkov was a little more broad than most with the opening Vyšehrad, the Mighty Fortress, which evokes the medieval castle that overlooks Prague. He found grandeur that a more straightforward reading can miss, though it can't be denied that this first section is slighter than the other two. Nonetheless, the opening strumming of two unaccompanied harps is a classic moment, all the more evocative live, and Bychkov's emphasis on the fairytale atmosphere made it more vivid than usual.
Vltava, well-known in German as Die Moldau, is probably Smetana's most famous work, which too often slips into autopilot as a catalog of pleasant scene paintings. Bychkov resolutely refused to let it sound hackneyed. He delved into each turn of phrase as if hearing it for the first time, relishing the shape and development of Smetana's ideas, turning in the best reading I've heard in quite a few years.
Likewise for Šárka, the Warrior Princess, Bychkov left room for fresh evocation, only driving hard in the closing pages to the fiery end. The orchestra sounded rich and colorful under Bychkov's baton, delivering full justice to Smetana's fervent score.
Mark Sebastian Jordan


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In the last half-century, America has become the nation with the highest rate of incarceration in the world, authorized the execution of hundreds of condemned prisoners and continued to struggle to recover from a long history of racial injustice.
For more than three decades, Alabama public interest attorney Bryan Stevenson, Founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative, has advocated on behalf of the poor, the incarcerated and the condemned, seeking to eradicate racial discrimination in the criminal justice system. An intimate portrait of this remarkable man, True Justice: Bryan Stevenson's Fight for Equality follows his struggle to create greater fairness in the system and shows how racial injustice emerged, evolved and continues to threaten the country, challenging viewers to confront it.
Told primarily in his own words, True Justice shares Bryan Stevenson's experience with a criminal justice system that, he asserts, "treats you better if you're rich and guilty than if you're poor and innocent." The burden of facing this system is explored in candid interviews with associates, close family members and clients.
This feature documentary focuses on Stevenson's life and career – particularly his indictment of the U.S. criminal justice system for its role in codifying modern systemic racism – and tracks the intertwined histories of slavery, lynching, segregation and mass incarceration. Highlighting watershed moments involving cases and clients, True Justice offers a rare glimpse into the human struggle that is required when the poor and people of color are wrongly condemned or unfairly sentenced, and explores the personal toll it has taken on Stevenson and his colleagues.
The film chronicles Stevenson's work in Alabama, birthplace of the civil rights movement and home to the Equal Justice Initiative, as well as the early influences that drove him to become an advocate for the poor and the incarcerated. As a young lawyer in the 1980s, he witnessed firsthand how courts unfairly applied the death penalty based on race and how the Supreme Court ultimately declared that racial bias in the administration of the death penalty was "inevitable."
Tracing the trajectory of the Court since the 1857 Dred Scott decision, which ruled that African Americans are not citizens of the U.S., True Justice shows how the Court has long sanctioned inequality, oppression and violence. Illuminating the power of memory in cultural change, the film instills hope of a brighter American future through the insights of this pioneer.
The film also documents the monumental opening one year ago, on April 26, 2018, of the Equal Justice Initiative's Legacy Museum and its National Memorial for Peace and Justice, the country's only lynching memorial, which is dedicated to the more than 4,400 African American victims of lynching. These sites are part of the EJI's nationwide effort to engage in a truth and reconciliation process around this country's legacy of Native American genocide, slavery, lynching and racial segregation. As part of the campaign, Stevenson and the EJI are also working with communities to recognize lynching victims by collecting soil from lynching sites and erecting historical markers.
True Justice: Bryan Stevenson's Fight for Equality reveals a history that can't be forgotten in the pursuit of genuine justice.
In 2014, Stevenson published his critically acclaimed memoir, Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption, which, like True Justice, focuses on his life's work and most memorable cases. Just Mercy has spent more than three years on the New York Times bestseller list and has received several literary nonfiction awards, including a Carnegie Medal and an NAACP Image Award. Stevenson is also a recipient of the MacArthur Genius Grant, among other honors.


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James Franco is well on his way to being a gay icon given his performance in Milk, his portrayal of Allen Ginsberg in Howl, and his somewhat inexplicable cover shoot as a transvestite for the magazine Candy. And Alan Cumming, who starred as a pansexual emcee in Broadway's Cabaret and has been an LGBT activist for over a decade, is well established in the gay pantheon. So while a team-up between the two wasn't necessarily inevitable, it makes perfect sense, especially with Franco's mysterious performance artist pal Carter directing.
Cumming spilled the beans to THR about this strange project, titled Maladies and starring Franco as a young actor who retires due to what he believes is mental illness. Cumming explained that his part is small, "and just for Christmas" whatever that means, but Claire Danes and Catherine Keener also round out the cast. Cumming referred to the project as "really fascinating," and there's seriously no telling what to expect from it; Franco has shown a willingness to make any and every kind of art, and Maladies could be a straightforward portrait of an artist or something totally experimental. As with just about everything the unpredictable Franco gets involved with these days, though, it'll probably be worth a watch no matter what.
Your Daily Blend of Entertainment News
Staff Writer at CinemaBlend
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General Information
Director: Douglas Heyes
Writer: Richard Matheson
Cast: Agnes Moorehead
Composer: Jerry Goldsmith
Air Date: 1/27/1961
Production Code: 173-3646
While living in an isolated farmhouse, a mute, elderly woman (Agnes Moorehead) discovers an alien spacecraft on her roof. Two small robots later emerge from the ship, presenting a formidable challenge to the woman.
Similar in many ways to a 1950s science fiction classic (the flying saucer from Forbidden Planet even makes an appearance), "The Invaders" is rightfully regarded as one of the greatest installments of The Twilight Zone. Exceptionally worth praising are the inarticulate grunts, gestures, and mannerisms of Agnes Moorehead, the acting of whom conceals an important plot twist prior to the final scene.
Though somewhat dated by today's standards, the miniature robots generate a suspenseful, compelling atmosphere by two essential factors. First, the protagonist reacts to her home invaders by hissing, groaning, and crying in a manner that would suggest mental impairment, thereby allowing viewers to share in the horror felt by a slow, defenseless old woman. Second, a haunting score by Jerry Goldsmith offers a disturbing complement to Moorehead's performance, which, as implied above, serves as a physical embodiment of all the fear, paranoia, and irrationality that humans experience when confronting forces unknown.
Despite lacking the social commentary of a Rod Serling narrative, "The Invaders" should be commended for evoking terror from a simplistic and unremarkable concept. Especially phenomenal is Richard Matheson's ability to skew audience perception—a technique that, in this particular case, works to critique a flawed human tendency, i.e. to remain overconfident in even the most "alien" of circumstances (specifically, the invaders fail to immediately retreat when pitted against a hostile "giant," thus proving their own arrogance and foolishness in dealing with a superior opponent).
Concluding Comments
By employing science fiction as a vehicle through which to explore the human condition, "The Invaders" earns its reputation as the quintessential episode of The Twilight Zone. While stronger parallels between the farmhouse situation and Cold War policies would have been excellent, Matheson's narrative does, at least on a surface level, speak on the dangers of isolationism as an internalized philosophy.
Overall Quality: 10/10
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Investing in SIPs or Systematic Investment Plans isn't as complex or daunting as most young investors think it is. If anything, SIPs are a great tool for building wealth, saving tax, and meeting both short and long term goals. Yet, salaried professionals or businessmen don't use this to its fullest potential due to various myths and half-true facts they harbour about SIPs. Let's debunk some of the most common myths that keep you away from unlocking the full power of SIPs.
Myth 1: SIPs are compulsory investments. Missing an EMI is not an option.
The 'S' is for Systematic, not statutory. The fact is that SIP remain one of the most flexible investment instruments. With the right fund manager, you can modify or even skip your upcoming installment. What else, you can even change your portfolio to add a different mutual fund depending on market and recommendations from your fund manager. While it is okay to skip your SIP in case of a fund crunch or unexpected expenses, use this option as the last resort. A sum of Rs. 5000 that you don't invest in SIP next month can become Rs. 33700 in 20 years.
Myth 2: SIP is ideal only for small investors
Not at all. Sadly, most of the salaried class investing through SIP uses it for tax saving and not for wealth creation. Whether you have five thousand or five lakhs, the rules remain the same. You get more money than an FD or an LIC policy. You get inflation-beating returns and your investment enjoys compounding growth. If anything, large investors can generate more wealth by diversifying their Mutual Fund investments through SIPs. For those with a larger risk taking appetite, funds like SmallCap, MidCap, and Sector Funds are strongly recommended owing to their high risk high return potential.
Myth 3: SIP Mutual funds and lumpsum mutual funds are different
Let's understand this with an example. When you invest into Mutual Funds, you can invest either a lump sum once, or you can invest periodically, through a Systematic Investment Plan. SIP is just a mode of investing just like a lump sum, and you can use either while investing into Mutual Funds.
Myth 4: Rupee cost averaging in SIP is possible in stock investing as well
Let's under Rupee cost averaging first. When you invest fixed amount of money to buy units of a Mutual Fund (or any investment) at periodic intervals, you end up buying more units when the cost is low, and fewer units when the cost is high. This way you lower your average cost of investment. While this theoretically holds true for investing in single stocks, but the benefits are not even close. The magic of investing through SIP in mutual funds is in the diversification, the professional fund management, and of course, compounding.
Myth 5: Market is too high or too low so I shouldn't start an SIP now
Because of its systematic investment, SIP is a time-agnostic method. Since you invest every month or quarter (Systematic, remember?) you offset against the volatility of the market. In simpler words, some units are bought at low price and some at high price, balancing the overall cost and growth for the whole corpus. SIP investments hold their fort against short to mid term volatility.
Myth 6: SIP is only for tax saving
SIP is an investment plan, not a tax-saving plan. Using SIP you can invest under ELSS or Equity Linked Saving Scheme to save taxes. But that's only one of the places to put your money. As mentioned above you can invest into MidCap, SmallCap and Hybrid funds depending on your risk appetite and your goals. SIP's real potential is wealth creation, and not merely tax saving.
If you were harbouring any of these myths, I hope they are now dispelled and won't keep you from investing into SIPs as an instrument to meet your financial goals. Just find the right platform, and start investing.


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The new compact 2020 Jeep Compass crossover SUV is ready for first changes since it hit the second generation. Back in 2017, the model suffered big changes. Now, the restyling will modernize and upgrade the small SUV. Changes include visual modifications, as well as the tuning of the engine room. The most favorite model, Compass Trailhawk, remains a capable off-road vehicle. Minor updates there will make it even more exciting. An interior revisit will lead to a better layout and more cargo volume for the 2020 Compass.
All in all, the next season will be pretty exciting for the crossover. Currently, it uses only one petrol drivetrain. The 2020 Jeep Compass will add at least one new unit. Rumors are saying that could be either turbo-four engine or a diesel mill. We are not writing-off chances for the Compass Hybrid. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be standard services for the new crossover. Navigation and a few other advanced accessories are optional.
2020 Jeep Compass Changes
The front fascia is not going to suffer too much. The 2020 Jeep Compass restyling is not going to modify the famous seven-slot grille. headlights could get a new look. The further redesign will lead to major changes on the hood and the back of the crossover. Designers are preparing a new set of wheels. Also, the upcoming Compass should be lighter due to higher usage of aluminum in its body. This agile crossover is 174 inches long with a wheelbase of 104 inches. Width and height remain the same – 72 and 65 inches.
Under the hood of the base 2020 Jeep Compass remains a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This unit is capable to produce 180 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed manual gearbox. The automatic transmission is also available. By default, the engine sends power to front wheels. Another optional feature is the all-wheel drive. Some configurations also use a 9-speed automatic transmission with start/stop system. This compact crossover SUV has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. Fuel economy is decent with 27 mpg combined for manual gearbox and FWD. In case you want AWD and automatic transmission, be ready to sacrifice 2 mpg average. Still, the combination of towing capacity and fuel economy is pretty respectable for the crossovers of Compass' size.
Turbo and Diesel Engine
The vehicle lacks more drivetrain options. So, the FCA is considering other power sources for the 2020 Jeep Compass. The most likely outcome could be the turbocharged petrol unit. That is a 2.0-liter four-pot engine capable to produce 270 horsepower. It was already available for Limited Edition, but now becomes a standard part of the offer. A nine-speed automatic transmission is a power router.
Another option for the 2020 Jeep Compass is a diesel unit. Well, this vehicle is already using this kind of engine, but not in the USA. The arrival of the new market is still questionable since drivetrains Compass is using overseas are not meeting efficiency and emission standards. Two types of diesel engines are available for 2020 Compass – a 1.6-l and 2.0-l, both MultiJet II powertrains.
Go Off-Road With 2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk
The most exciting model of the lineup is Trailhawk. This is an off-road oriented crossover. Of course, special tuning will bring suspension and shocks setup capable to go over obstacles on toughest terrains. Tow hooks are available at both ends. All-terrain tires are wrapping 17-inch wheels. Leather seats, navigation, huge touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, are all part of this premium offer. Black decals on the hood will show you this is the 2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk model.
Compass vs Cherokee
Many buyers will compare again 2020 Jeep Compass vs Jeep Cherokee. Well, these two are both compact crossover SUVs with many similarities. First of all, Cherokee is longer and it comes with an extended wheelbase. Still, the same engine is under the hood of both crossovers. The extra length does not provide more space inside the larger vehicle. It is quite opposite though. After the Compass entered a new generation, its interior layout is offering more cargo space. Of course, there is a difference in price as well, since Cherokee is more expensive. Also, it gets a V6 engine as a bonus option.
Read a full review about 2020 Jeep Cherokee HERE.
2020 Jeep Compass Interior, Features, Cargo Volume
From the base unit to the top of the range models, we will find a lot of interesting accessories. The good thing is that Jeep is offering many options right from the start. The base model is going to be 2020 Jeep Compass Sport, with MSRP around $22,000. The most expensive crossover is High Altitude with a price tag of $31,000. Between these two there are at least six more trim levels. Apple CarPlay is available for the entry-level model. The standard vehicle includes 16-inch wheels, most trims are using 17-inchers, while the largest sets are 19-inch wheels. Upper models are using unique paintjobs. Inside the cockpit, there are 27 cubic feet of cargo volume. With second row seats folded, the space increases to 60 cubic feet.
When Will 2020 Jeep Compass Be Available?
The restyling of the 2020 Jeep Compass will take some time. However, the FCA must keep their mind on the competition. The new model will be available in the first quarter next year. Only major upgrades could bring the premiere this year. In case the engineers are going to present a hybrid or diesel engine, the new Compass will be available by the end of 2019.


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Delivers Powerful, Interactive and Personalized Multi-screen Experience
News Highlights:
-Features Broadcom's HD MoCA-integrated connected home STB technology
-Delivers Comcast AnyRoom DVR with interactive, personalized and social multi-screen TV experience
-Demonstrates Comcast's first deployment of the RDK on a hybrid client device
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- 2013 CES International – Broadcom Corporation BRCM, a global innovation leader in semiconductor solutions for wired and wireless communications, today announced that Comcast has chosen its connected home set-top box (STB) technology for use in the RNG150N interactive STB now shipping to subscribers. Based on the Broadcom BCM7125 system-on-a-chip (SoC) and running Comcast Reference Design Kit (RDK) version 1.1, the Comcast RNG150N STB powers the latest in interactive HDTV programming, connectivity, whole-home media distribution and advanced 3D user interfaces. Learn how Broadcom® innovation is enabling the Connected Life at home, at work, and on-the-go at Broadcom@CES.
(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20060609/BROADCOMLOGO)
"Broadcom's integration capability accelerates the design and deployment of powerful new connected home devices, maximizing the potential of our RDK," said Steve Reynolds, Senior Vice President of Premises Technology for Comcast. "We are committed to delivering rich, interactive and whole-home connected TV experiences and the RNG150N gives our subscribers a powerful new way to enjoy TV."
Key Features of Broadcom's BCM7125 STB SoC:
- Integrates five different major STB functions into one device while achieving power savings and reduced footprint and including a full DOCSIS cable modem, MPEG 4 HD decoder, MoCA® 1.1 modem, 1GHz tuners and 3D graphics.
- Supports video-on-demand (VoD), IP video streaming, and integration of the X1 user interface (UI) system with social networking, personalization and fast search.
- Features configuration option to run the X1 UI as a client device connected to an XG1DVR server. This provides greater deployment flexibility for Comcast to deliver the X1 AnyRoom DVR service to subscribers.
"Powered by Broadcom, the deployment of the RNG150N demonstrates a long-term commitment with Comcast to deliver even more interactive and rich multi-screen TV entertainment experiences," said Dan Marotta, Broadcom Executive Vice President and General Manager, Broadband Communications Group. "Our highly integrated and high performing technology simplifies device development to bring new services to subscribers and pave the way for the cable industry's IPTV transition."
Broadcom is currently shipping the MoCA-integrated BCM7125 single-chip, multi-format HD DOCSIS® 2.0 compatible silicon solution in high volume production.
For ongoing Broadcom news visit our Newsroom, read our B-Connected Blog, or visit us on Facebook or Twitter. And to stay connected, subscribe to our RSS Feed.
About Broadcom
Broadcom Corporation BRCM, a FORTUNE 500® company, is a global leader and innovator in semiconductor solutions for wired and wireless communications. Broadcom® products seamlessly deliver voice, video, data and multimedia connectivity in the home, office and mobile environments. With the industry's broadest portfolio of state-of-the-art system-on-a-chip and embedded software solutions, Broadcom is changing the world by Connecting everything®. For more information, go to www.broadcom.com.
Broadcom®, the pulse logo, Connecting everything®, the Connecting everything logo are among the trademarks of Broadcom Corporation and/or its affiliates in the United States, certain other countries and/or the EU. Any other trademarks or trade names mentioned are the property of their respective owners.
Dana Brzozkiewicz
Public Relations Manager
Chris Zegarelli
Senior Director, Investor Relations
SOURCE Broadcom Corporation; BRCM Broadband
© 2023 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.


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Local MSP John Finnie, Scottish Greens, today won an important commitment during a discussion about the Railway Policing (Scotland) Bill. John Finnie, who was himself a serving police officer is a member of the cross party Justice Committee.
The Scottish Government Bill was introduced by the Cabinet Secretary for Justice, Michael Matheson MSP on 8 December 2016. It seeks to " make provision about the arrangements for the Police Service of Scotland to police railways and railway property; and for connected purposes." This is a service currently provided by the UK's Transport Police.
John Finnie MSP, who is also the Justice Spokesperson for the Scottish Greens has won a commitment for British Transport Police (BTP) Officers transferring to Police Scotland over their future terms and conditions.
John Finnie moved an amendment, "Limitation on redeployment of constables," during Stage 2 of the Justice Committee's consideration of the Railway Policing Bill, proposing that any BTP officer who transfers into Police Scotland would continue to work on railway policing duties unless they themselves chose to move.
John Finnie said:
"The amendment puts a previous verbal assurance from Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins onto a statutory footing and will provide a greater level of reassurance to officers who wish to continue their careers within railway policing."
"I am grateful to Committee colleagues and indeed Transport Minister Humza Yousef for supporting this change."
The Justice Committee was designated lead committee for the Bill and has been taking evidence on the implications of the changeover from the Transport Police to Police Scotland.
Reporter: Fiona Grahame
Categories: Uncategorized


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As Ireland opens up to international travel once more - experts are warning of the dangers 0f "re-importing" covid-19 into Ireland after months of lockdown.
Planes and ferries have started travelling once again between Ireland and the rest of the world and Cork Airport - which has implemented strict health protocols - is beginning to see more flights.
On Monday alone, airplanes were set to arrive on Leeside from Carcassonne and Bordeaux in France, Tenerife in Spain and four were due in from London.
However, a leading health expert says planes are the "ideal" place for Covid-19 to spread as he cautioned against foreign travel.
Professor of Experimental Immunology at Trinity College, Kingston Mills, warned that there is a major risk of resurgence from both those entering Ireland and people leaving on holidays.
He also says he believes people are "ignoring" Government advice to quarantine after travelling abroad.
Professor Mills said: "The idea of non-mandatory self-isolation is not really working in that I understand a significant number of people are either not isolating or they're not being followed up, so effectively ignoring the advice from Government."
He acknowledged that some European countries, including Norway, Finland, Hungary and Greece, have very low levels of the virus and "travelling to and from those countries isn't a huge risk".
However, he stressed visiting and allowing visitors from other worse-hit regions poses a serious risk.
He told RTE's Morning Ireland: "But there are other countries, particularly the US but also the UK, where the numbers have been very very high.
"There are flights coming in from places like Chicago, Chicago has significant numbers of cases right now.
"So if you have unrestricted flights where people are not isolating when they get here from cities like Chicago, then you're asking for trouble in terms of resurgence of the virus again.
"Most of the cases that started in Ireland was a direct result of travel from Northern Italy and we don't want to repeat those mistakes again."
Professor Mills added that even if people choose to holiday in a low-risk area, flying still poses a major risk.
He explained: "The problem is if you have to sit on a flight for an hour or two prior to getting there, that's where the real risk is. It's the ideal environment for transmitting the virus.
"I find it remarkable that we're debating whether schoolchildren can safely sit in their classroom if they're not two metres apart and yet people can sit in an airplane inches apart and that it's not risky?"
He added that mandatory wearing of masks and sanitising planes would "help" reduce risk but would not stop the virus transmitting if there was an infected person on board.
"The problem is, there are people that get infected that don't have any symptoms, in fact a significant number, probably the majority of people that are infected, don't show any symptoms, so they don't know they have it and they don't know that they're then potentially transmitting it to someone else, that's the big risk", Professor Mills said.
"Irish people should be encouraged to go on holidays in Ireland and support the tourist industry rather than having the risks of going abroad," he concluded.


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Guest Reviews
Customer Reviews
Marilyn Nolte , Bangkok , 12 years ago
I hired Ben for the second time this year in June. I was even more impressed with his attention to excellent service and his great sense of humor. I recommend him highly and hope to be able to hire him again for our next trip. Thanks, Ben!!
Beckah Reed , Missouir, USA , 12 years ago
Ben has been a wonderful taxi driver for both my family and my students. I have had the pleasure of working with him twice. He was always kind, professional, respectful, eager to please, patient, and flexible with the schedule. My 8 students were well treated, thoroughly enjoyed their time in Chiang Mai and will remember the day and a half as their "best days in Thailand"!
Jerry & Prasit , California USA , 12 years ago
What a great find! Ben drove us on two of his suggested itineraries and gave me and my Thai friend invaluable tips on the places we visited and shopping the local markets. He's fluent in English and was able to give us a multi-lingual commentary, as well as translate between the two of us! A real bonus and surprise. His SUV was immaculate and high powered and gave us confidence in any terrain we encountered. Finally, he was prompt and was always where he promised to be at the exact time agreed on...another bonus in Thailand.โ
Mark Hilliard , USA (Live in BKK) , 12 years ago
I stumbled on Ben browsing the internet for tour guides for my visit to Chiang Mai. As an American living in Bangkok, I hire drivers almost weekly for both work and sightseeing and Ben is by far the best driver and tour guide I have come across thus far. I hired Ben because I was wanting a flexible, unstructured and typical "tour" of the area and he was extremely flexible a taking me and showing me what I wanted to see. There were a couple places that were not on my list, but all of Ben's recommendations were excellent. Ben is extremely courteous and funny, excellent English (he taught me some Thai) and a very comfy vehicle (not always the case with many driver's I have hired in Thailand). I cannot wait to go back and have Ben show me more - there is so much to see in the area, and he is the best.
Bruno , Zuerich / Switzerland , 12 years ago
Hi Ben, Congratulations. You have so good reviews in your guestbook. Greetings from Switzerland. Bruno
Tom , South Carolina, USA , 12 years ago
:-) :cool: I utilized Ben's tour guide company in February 2011. I found the service to be friendly, efficient, professional, as well as value priced. His comfortable Toyota SUV is safe and well maintained. Ben is a cogenial and thoughful person who can help make your time in the Chiang Mai area a more enriching and interesting experience.
Jill Dyson , Melbourne , 12 years ago
Ben was a delight, a careful driver and very flexible. We hired him for 1.5 days: day 1 for a trip to Doi Inthanon, including various interesting stops, leisurely walks, market strolls etc, & home to Chiang Mai via Lamphun; and for a second half day where first we climbed steps up a hill & explored a cave, then on to hot springs where we relaxed, swam & had a Thai massage ... can't recommend Ben more highly, we thoroughly enjoyed our time with him. :-) :-)
Bernard Lim , Singapore , 12 years ago
It was my first time in Chiang Mai and I was totally clueless about the place. But after 7 days spent with Ben, it turned out to be one of the best adventure holidays I ever had. Ben is an excellent driver and guide, always charming and ever attentive to your needs, especially if you are looking to customise your tours. Be mindful though, that he provides just a taxi service, so it is best if you trawl the Internet on your own before hand for more specific details such as historical and cultural information. Ben is a safe and careful driver with many years of experience on the road and especially places that are off the usual tourist track. His sleek black SUV, immaculately tidy and clean, is arguably one of the most handsome cars in town. Ben leaves you to wander around on your own, at your own time, and somehow always manages to be around at the car when you are ready to leave, no matter how short or long a time you take. His charming smile and endless supply of wet towels and cold water are well-known trademarks of his personal service. Long drives into the mountains, fantastic scenery, watching the sun rise from behind a mountain, cooking eggs at a hot spring, a mineral bath, stunning views and temples. I will certainly go back for more! Thanks, Ben!
Marilyn Nolte , Bangkok (from Australia) , 12 years ago
I hired Ben to take me, my husband and friend on two day trips around the Chiang Mai area in February. He took us to some very interesting places - some of them well off the mass tourist track. He's a very personable man who went out of his way to provide great service. His vehicle is very comfortable and his driving safe. I plan to hire him again on our next trip to Chiang Mai, and have no hesitation in recommending him highly.
Melissa & Cesar Rosas , USA (Atlanta) , 12 years ago
We truly enjoyed our tour with Ben. He was so attentive and worked tirelessly to ensure we had an unforgettable day! We did a custom tour to Doi Suthep and Lamphun, with a stop at the hot springs and rice fields. His English is excellent, and car (SUV) is roomy, modern, and very clean. Ben was quick to accomodate all of our requests, and we would highly recommend him in all cases!!!
Anders and Bengt , Sweden , 12 years ago
Ben took us for a tour to Doi Suthep and other places around Chiang Mai. Ben is very considerate and friendly. He also speaks exellent english. He made our trip something to remember! :-)
Kevin Holmes , England , 12 years ago
Have known of Ben for many years, he was recommended to me by Thai friends. Have used his services for 2 x 3day tours. He is a friendly guy, who speaks excellent English. He goes out of his way to be helpfull and friendly, excellent local knowledge, with a clean comfortable car and a safe driver. I have no hesitation at all in recommending him, or using him again.***** :-) :-) :-) :-) :-)
andy and whichie , thailand and uk , 12 years ago
We have used Ben's service on several occasions in the past while in Chiang Mai and will do so again. He is friendly and honest with excellent English skills and an open, honest and easy-going personality. The vehicle was clean, well maintained and very comfortable. He let you to go at your own pace and wander then met up with you when you had finished with a cool towel and drink. See you again Ben.
Chris , Denmark/Spain/thailand , 12 years ago
Me my family and friends have all used Ben's tour service several times and have always been extremely pleased good service, good trips, and Ben has a very good knowledge and speaks perfect English, and one should not forget cheaper and better does not exist. We will be back for sure. :-) :-) :-) :-) :-)
Derek & Fiona , 12 years ago
We used Ben for a couple of days touring while in Chiang Mia just this week gone. We could not fault the service, the car and Ben himself is a very amiable guy friendy and very polite. He was prompt, explained all the costing of the hire which was good to avoid any misunderstandings on price. He left you to go at your own pace and wander then met up with you when you had finished with a cool towel and drink. He took us to non-touristy markets as well, after listening to what we wanted to do and not to his agenda. We went to places off the normal tourist trails and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. So we would highly recommend Ben as a driver (remember hes not a guide) with a toast of a cold Chang and some fried frogs!


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CBD Oil is helping children across the country. CBD Oil is nearly stopping dozens of violent seizures a day, giving children the ability to speak for the first time ever and has even killed that's right killed cancer in an 8 month old baby. Politicians apparently would rather watch these children suffer and make excuses on why than to just help these kids. Last I checked this was The United States. When did it become a political choice to allow our American Citizens to suffer and die because of a racist outdated law? Here is a link to contact The White House and ask why. https://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/submit-questions-and-comments
Don't let these children suffer any longer while politicians continue to make deals with the Pharmaceutical Industry. Why do these kids take on average 20 pills a day that have no results? Somebody is getting rich that's why! I will not stop until these kids get a chance a life that they should be given. I lost a son to Menkes Disease. He had dozens of micro seizures a day that CBD Oil could have prevented. He will never know if it could have worked. Don't let this happen to another parent!


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Surf Empire Stepdeck 9'6"
Features colour comp stripes, sanded gloss finish, winged nose with a slight concave for controlled, extended tip-time. The step in the deck reduces nose volume and weight. This, combined with double concave tail vee and slightly accelerated tail-kick, makes this a fast, fluid turning, nose rider.
Surf Empire staff fave.
Length: 9'6"
Width: 23"
Thickness: 3"
Volume: 73L