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The ATV-14 Splash- Enjoyable swimming and fitness with enough room to party
ATV-14 Splash – 14′ Swim Spa
If you're a water enthusiast who wants a less intense (mild) swim, stretch, soak, or splash then the ATV-14 Splash is the vessel for you! The Splash operates off of a single 160 GPM / 606 LPM dual-speed pump for a more relaxed flow for your aquatic activity. It is equipped with a single swim tether point and a resistance rowing option to provide versatile activity or relaxation for your lifestyle.
The ATV-14 Sport- Professional swim training and conditioning with reduced length
ATV-14 Sport – 14′ Swim Spa
Designed to fit into a relatively smaller area, the ATV-14 doesn't skimp on features or benefits. With a true 4 foot of water depth you can stand up submerged in water and exercise away! Plus even tall swimmers will get the workout they desire. Butterfly, breast stroke or freestyle your way to fitness! Plus the ATV-14 will look great in your space.
The ATV-17 Sport: Professional swim training and conditioning for vigorous workouts
ATV-17 Sport- 17′ Swim Spa
If you're looking for the same resistance for rigorous workouts that the ATV-14 Sport offers, but want an expanded swim and workout space, the ATV-17 Sport is the vessel for you! It has more versatility for your swim and workout needs with an extra 3 ft. / 91.4 cm of length and 5 in. / 12.7 cm of depth (53 in. / 135 cm total water depth) than the 14 model. The ATV-17 Sport still includes 3 dual-speed pumps (160 GPM / 606 LPM) to create a flow rate of 480 GPM / 1,817 LPM to deliver swim workouts.
The ATV-17 Kona: Top of the line EXTREME swim and conditioning training
ATV-17 Kona – 17′ Swim Spa
The innovative Kona exclusive Whitewater-4™ jets provide a wall of water to maximize your swim pace options and workout rigor. Class 4 white water is known as 'advanced' in the outdoor sports world. With Whitewater-4, you will feel the flow difference…for real! The Kona's exclusive system design actually uses the Whitewater-4 jets to deliver water flow beyond the volumes created by the pumps, delivering up to 39% more flow than comparably sized jets available anywhere else in swim spas.
The V150 Swim Spa
V150 Swim Spa
Spacious, powerful, and versatile — Aquatic Training Vessels™ by Marquis® deliver the ultimate swim spa experience. Made in the USA and engineered to perform in a variety of aquatic scenarios, from intense training, to gentle conditioning and fitness, to stress-free relaxation and playtime. ATV™ adapts to your fitness level and goals, whether you are an athlete, outdoor enthusiast, or simply love the water and want a fun place to relax. Get the portability of an above-the-ground pool, the endless swimming of a lap pool, and the hydrotherapy of a hot tub all rolled into one.
The V150W Swim Spa
V150W Swim Spa
Marquis'® V150W Swim and Workout Vessel has all the attributes of the V150, with the focus on providing ample space to swim, row, jog, cycle and workout. It's a personal aquatic multi-use gym, perfect for any age and fitness level. V150W features four Whitewater-4™ jets in the swim end and 21 Jetpods in the therapy end.
Four massage seats with enormous therapy benefits, including two lower Jetpods for foot and leg massage, offer room for the whole family.


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Hotel Piccadilly, Manchester
Provenance: Gift of L&TM5K reader Thom J, June 2010.
Now THAT's a boring postcard! Quite sublime!
And I've just spent the last few minutes reading about the complete redesign of Piccadilly Gardens--large elliptical fountain, tilting black granite w/catwalk--oh, hey, I do remember reading about Tadao Ando's pavilion there--and look, the Ramada Manchester Picadilly hotel has been "newly-transformed" with a major refurbishment--well, it's quite the place I'm sure. But the building still looks pretty darn boring, you'll be happy to know.
Note the Union Jack rendered in respendantly accurate 2:1!
Wooh! 2:1 ratio. Doesn't it just set your heart afire with patriotism?

subset: commoncrawl


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Las Vegas: Murdered teen was turning life around through boxing at City Boxing Club
LAS VEGAS -- At City Boxing Club, the news of Aaron Rodriguez's death has hit hard.
"It ruined me for days," Keegan Cirillo said.
Aaron worked out at city boxing club with the troubled youth program. When Aaron was younger he got in trouble for fighting.
"Aaron was excited about boxing and being a boxer," Sean Doak said. Doak was Aaron's probation officer. "The idea was to keep him busy and off the streets, and it was working. Aaron was turning his life around."
Fighting got Aaron in trouble, and through City Boxing club was helping him turn his life around.
"He was going to be a professional boxer. He was that good," Keegan Cirillo said. "In 5 years he was going to be a top prospect. You know you see those specials about fighters that come from nothing, and then are monsters? That was him."
The boxing for troubled youth program was created by Armin Van Dam. Van Dam believes all kids can be saved, so he works with the county and juvenile system to get the most troubled kids into his gym. He charges them nothing, but they have to stay in line. Van Dam ends up covering a lot of costs, but he says it's worth it to see kids like Aaron succeed.
"If Aaron can turn his life around anyone can turn his life around," Van Dam said. "You know what he would say? "I just want to make it up to my mom"."
Keegan Cirillo went through the youth boxing program, he know helps mentor troubled youth at City Boxing club. Cirillo adored Aaron.
"I just saw something in this kid. If I had a son, I would want him to have the type of heart and courage Aaron had," Cirillo said.
Aaron celebrated his 18th birthday, then two days later was gunned down. For the people at City Boxing Club, Aaron's story feel's unfinished.
"There is going to be something and it's going to be massive and it's going to help kids and it's going to be all because of him," Cirilo said.
For Van Dam, the hardest part is that Aaron was going to be a success story, someone he helped save. He says he won't let Aaron die in vein and will continue fighting for other teens just like him.
"Aaron in my mind was a success story. This will never end. We don't need to lose another kid. I will keep fighting, for Aaron."
Saturday, November 17th the City Boxing Club is holding an event for Aaron's family. Professional boxers like Jessie Vargas will be there to raise money. It'll be at 3401 Sammy Davis Jr. Drive , the event starts at 1:00 P.M.


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In the News
Bergen County Sheriff Saudino announces new partnership to sustain recovery from opioid addiction
May 21, 2018
Hackensack, NJ – Bergen County Sheriff today announced a new technology-driven program to help released inmates accelerate their recovery and re-entry into society and reduce recidivism. Read more
New Technology-Driven Program to Help Inmates Accelerate Recovery (News12 NJ)
Coverage by News 12 NJ about the new Team Patient App which helps with recovery for ex offenders after leaving the Bergen County Jail. Go to video


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After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Acts 4:31 (NIV)
Speak Boldly
That is what I would like to be able to do. What's that? I would like to be able to speak your word boldly. Why is that? I want to be used by you. I want to bear fruit for your kingdom. I want to bring glory to your name. I would like to see a multitude of people come to know and love and follow and serve you through the work you give to me. I am very tired of operating under my own strength. I know that I will not be able to go where you guide me and do what you ask me by functioning under my own power. No, you will not.
How do you think I will make you able to do the work I give you to do? You will empower me by your Holy Spirit living and moving and working in and through me. You know that? Yes, I know that. If you know that, then why do you not ask for that? I'm not sure what you mean. How often have you asked for my Holy Spirit to fill you? How frequently have you asked my Holy Spirit to move and work in and through you? Not nearly enough. Not frequently enough, of that I am certain.
What is more important your hard work or your hard prayers? I am sure that my prayers to you are far more important than the work that I might attempt to do for you. Don't think that one is not needed. Both are required. But, what have you done? I have launched off on my own and used my best efforts to accomplish your purposes and fulfill your plans. Is that all? Is there something else that might be out of alignment with my will and my ways? I suppose so. Tell me about it. I have frequently engaged in many solo efforts. I have not joined together with my fellow believers. Both not relying on my Holy Spirit and not working together with your fellow believers is not good. No, it is not.
What will you do differently? I will ask your Holy Spirit to fill and empower me to do your work. I will gather in prayer with my fellow believers to engage in the work that you have given us to do for you. That will be very good. Then you will be able to speak boldly for me. Then you will bear an abundance of fruit for my kingdom. Then a multitude of people will come to know and love and follow and serve me. That is what I want. That is the desire of my heart. That is very good.
Holy Spirit, here I am. I am waiting for you to fill me. I am waiting for you to empower me. I am asking you to powerfully use me. Help me to boldly speak the word of God so that a multitude of people will be able to come to know and love and serve God. Amen
For today's complete 4 page Discipleship Devotional Study Guide click here:
God's Word – Hebrews 13-7 – Spoke The Word – 4 Page Discipleship Devotional Study Guide
Please consider sharing these devotionals with others through the social media you use.
Individual users may save the Discipleship Devotional Study Guide to their desktop for private use. All the blanks in the study guides are fields that allow typed responses. To use the fields on the study guide you may need to open the guide with a free version of adobe reader.
By Jon Ulrich © All rights reserved Copying not permitted www.GrowingAsDisciples.com


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- This event has passed.
Climate and Spirit- Climate Interactive Role Playing
March 31, 2019 @ 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
March 31, 5:30-7:30pm
First Congregational Church
20 Oak St, Asheville, NC 28801 Sign up Here
Join the Creation Care Alliance as they share Climate Interactive World Climate Role Playing Experience in collaboration withClimate Collider's Climate City Expo Faith Track. This will be an interactive experience that explores, global poverty, power, UN climate negotiations and spirituality. intimate and interactive experience of the U.N. Climate negotiations. Learn more about World Climate here. Light food and beverages will be provided. You can see a short video of the basis for this experience here.
Sign up for this free event here.


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Commentary: PERIOD[+quantity][+span][+time][+continuous]
NOTE: focus is on amount of time, measured in units of time (unlike sense 6, which is identified by a trait)
NOTE: does not imply a regular repeating amount of time. (that is what sense 7 does)
A period of 30 years passed before they met again.
For some period now Mary hasn't been returning my phone calls.
This gift certificate has no limit on the time period it is valid for.
Our vacation seemed to last such a short period.
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1
Commentary: PERIOD[+form][+symbolic][+notation][+punctuation]
You should place a period at the end of this sentence.
In England they call a 'period' a 'stop'.
Death put a period to his endeavors. (figurative)
He just won't do it. Period. (figurative)
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 7, 5
Commentary: PERIOD[+event][+cyclic] The interval taken to complete one cycle of a regularly repeating phenomenon
NOTE: focus is on the repeating nature of the event, not how many minutes or hours it took.
NOTE: implies the event repeats on some regular basis
Seven periods of day and night constitute a week.
She is studying the up and down periods of a manic depressive. (regular, repeating intervals of behavior)
We are not currently in a period of high solar activity.
Investors take more chances during boom periods.
Those bushes were in a period of dormancy through the winter.
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2
Commentary: PERIOD[+process][+biological][+regular][+menstruation] The monthly discharge of blood from the uterus of nonpregnant women from puberty to menopause
Stress and illness can both cause a woman's period to be late.
Girls in her family start their periods earlier than average.
Sally worried when she missed her period.
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 6
Commentary: PERIOD[+time][+demarcated][+allotted][+game/+school/+business] A portion of the total allotted time for an activity, e.g., sports game (hockey) or academic class
NOTE: the allotment is set by convention, this is not true for sense 6 below, which describes external empirical factors.
The other team caught up two minutes into the period.
Suzy has study hall during third period.
The company has just entered its quiet period before the IPO. (legally defined number of weeks)
Their academic day consists of seven periods, including lunch.
My team got fifteen goals before the second period.
They are inviting beta testers to use the product for a trial period.
They managed to tie up the game before the end of the period.
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 3
Commentary: PERIOD[+time][+span][+demarcated][+named][+historical/+geological/+personal]
NOTE: focus is on a defining trait of the time span, not the number of hours, minutes (this is sense 1)
A geological period is a subset of an era which is a subset of an eon.
The Romantic era was a period of rapid development in musical styles.
This is a novel from the Victorian period.
Mary likes Picasso's blue period the best.
His teenaged daughter has passed from her punk to her Goth period.
The Jurassic is the second period of the Mesozoic Era.
This style of statue is not characteristic of the later periods of Greek culture.
Their country is entering a period of unrest and possible civil war.
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1, 4
Commentary: PERIOD[+quantity][+value][+numeric][+repeating]
NOTE: a single numeric value that repeats in a predictable way.
The period of this sine function is 2 pi.
There exists no period P for an aperiodic function.
Astronomers have determined that the period of that planet around its star is only four days.
The waves in that ocean swell have a period of about 14 seconds.
WordNet 0.0 Sense Numbers: 3b
Commentary: PERIOD[+form][+symbolic][+pattern][+arranged] A meaningful component of a larger scheme.
Each row in the periodic table of elements is called a period.
Cicero was a master of the rhetorical period, a sentence composed of phrases that build one upon the next.
A rhythmical unit of Greek verse composed of cola is called a period.
WordNet 0.0 Sense Numbers: 3


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The very first Google Smart Display — basically, a Google Home with a screen on it — was launched by Lenovo last week. And now, JBL has started taking preorders on its own smart display, called the Link View, which looks like it'll be the second model to hit stores. It's supposed to start shipping on September 3rd, as spotted by 9to5Google.
JBL's smart display sells for the same price as Lenovo's, but it appears that it'll fix one of the Lenovo model's shortcomings: sound. JBL is known as an audio company, so you can expect the speakers on the Link View to be much better than the single speaker grille on what Lenovo made.
A better speaker, a worse design
The downside is that JBL's model is horrendously ugly in comparison. That's not necessarily out of line with Bluetooth speakers, though, and if you're looking for a smarter version of that, then this might fit the bill. But it certainly won't blend into your kitchen as naturally as what Lenovo's offering.
The Link View is selling for $250. While its function as a smart speaker is a large part of the appeal here, one of the core selling points is the built-in Google Assistant display. The tech still seems to be pretty early on, but it can be used to display the time, weather, recipes, YouTube videos, and to look up the kinds of information a Google Home would normally tell you by voice. For more details on how they work, you can check out our review of the first model from Lenovo.
Additional Google-powered smart displays are expected from LG and Sony, but there's no info yet on when they'll come along.


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Love the skin you're in.
As an slightly-off-white medical rapper, I take this to heart. Especially since tanning beds lead to hella wrinkles, Kesha!
So when dermatologist/researcher/mom and former medical intern of mine Dr. Eleni Linos of UCSF medical school reached out about making a video to raise awareness of the dangers of indoor tanning, I was like LIGHT THIS UP!
Also: I GET TO PUT ON A DRESS AGAIN!!
(Editor's Note: the makeup for this video shoot spawned Dr. Zena McDrag…DEFINITELY not a character safe for work…or safe for anything, really.)
May is skin cancer and melanoma awareness month, so share the video with young folk you wanna see unwrinkled and un-cancered, and check this to find a list of places to get free skin checks.
Also, check out this front-page news article, which contains some dope behind-the-scenes photos…and stream/download the track here!
Addendum 8/13/19: Now a clinically-proven prevention tool, see the Stanford article here.
Wake up in the morning feeling pale and icky (Naw, you're beautiful girl)
I'm gonna hit that tannin' bed and bake it nice and crispy (Oh no)
Before I leave, brush my cheeks with a bottle of crisco
When I leave for my prom I'm looking hella fit tho!
Got that "base tan" for spring break break
Peeling out like a snake snake
Spray tanning looks so fake fake
I'm betting errrybody loves my tan tan
Salon folk, they my fam fam
Wrinkled up like my gran….ma…
Just stop, tanning shop
Damaged skin is so not hot
I'm white, it's alright
Artificial light ain't right
Tik Tok, yeah this sucks
Tanning bed got sweat and yuck now
Oh oh oh oh
Your UV-A
It breaks skin down
I may get brown
But it's ugly
Base tan's a myth
Wrinkled AF
The boys swipe left
Tanning's ugly
Salons they lie
They break me down
Fake orange clowns
Yeah they fooled me
I won't tan up
Please don't tan up
Please don't tan up
Now the party's just lit with my real skin
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text:
CBSE Syllabus for Class 11 Biology
Biology is one of the most important subjects and it is also very important while preparing for various competitive exams and therefore it is essential to prepare it from the very beginning.
Biology and also enhance awareness about environmental issues, problems and their appropriate solutions.
Along with the complete course structure, the syllabus also provides information about the distribution of marks for each topic and subtopics and time duration for each topic. CBSE syllabus for Class 11 Biology for the academic year 2020-2021 also includes practical syllabus, assignments and projects information.
Download Revised CBSE Class 11 Biology Syllabus
CBSE Board Class 11 Biology latest syllabus for students to download for the academic year 2020-2021
Unit-wise CBSE Syllabus for Class 11 Biology with Marking Scheme
|Diversity of Living Organisms
|Structural Organisation in Plants and Animals
|Cell: Structure and Function
|Plant Physiology
|Human Physiology
Students can also have a look at syllabus of all the subjects by visiting CBSE Class 11 Syllabus from https://blog.schoolconnectonline.com/
Find also the deleted portion of the Biology syllabus 2020-21 from the link below:
CBSE Class 11 Biology Deleted Portion of the Syllabus 2020-21
CBSE Class 11 Biology Practical Syllabus with Marks Weightage
|Evaluation Scheme
|One Major Experiment Part A (Experiment No- 1,3)
|One Minor Experiment Part A (Experiment No- 4,5, 6)
|Slide Preparation Part A (Experiment No- 2)
|Spotting Part B
|Practical Record + Viva Voce
|Credit to the students' work over the academic session may be given
|Project Record + Viva Voce
|30 Marks
CBSE Class 11 Biology Practicals
A: List of Experiments
1. Study and describe a locally available common flowering plant, from any one family: Solanaceae or Liliaceae (Poaceae, Asteraceae or Brassicaceae can be substituted in case of particular geographical location) including dissection and display of floral whorls, anther and ovary to show number of chambers (floral formulae and floral diagrams).
2. Study of distribution of stomata in the upper and lower surfaces of leaves.
3. Separation of plant pigments through paper chromatography.
4. Study of the rate of respiration in flower buds/leaf tissue and germinating seeds.
5. Test for presence of sugar in urine.
6. Test for presence of albumin in urine.
B. Study/Observer of the following (spotting)
1. Parts of a compound microscope.
2. Specimens/slides/models and identification with reasons – Bacteria, Oscillatoria, Spirogyra, Rhizopus, mushroom, yeast, liverwort, moss, fern, pine, one monocotyledonous plant, one dicotyledonous plant and one lichen.
3. Virtual specimens/slides/models and identifying features of – Amoeba, Hydra, liverfluke, Ascaris, leech, earthworm, prawn, silkworm, honeybee, snail, starfish, shark, rohu, frog, lizard, pigeon and rabbit.
4. Tissues and diversity in shape and size of animal cells (squamous epithelium, smooth, skeletal and cardiac muscle fibers and mammalian blood smear) through temporary/permanent slides.
5. Mitosis in onion root tip cells and animal cells (grasshopper) from permanent slides.


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Here by popular demand…introducing the Artesprix Sublimation Stamp Ink Refill! Our 0.5 fl. oz. bottle of specially formulated Iron-on-Ink will enable you to refill your Sublimation Stamp Pad so that you always get the best black impression of your stamps.
- For use with Artesprix's Sublimation Stamp Pad
- Squeeze Applicator prevents ink leaks/drying and keeps your hands and workplace clean
- Meters ink onto Sublimation Stamp Pad evenly and thoroughly
- 0.5 fl. oz. bottle
- Nontoxic


text:
In their textbook, Kinicki and Williams explain that "out of balance" needs create a managerial "monster." The combination of low Need for Affiliation (nAff), moderate Need for Achievement (nAch), and an overwhelming need for power begets control freaks – people who possess the need to dominate and forcibly persuade others to their respective opinions.
These individuals make for an uncomfortable work culture, to say the least. In her article, Help, I can't motivate my employees, Ryan explains that a stick is an inappropriate, albeit insulting way to push workers to better performance. Motivation in her opinion is ". . .the natural energy boost that people get when they're connected to their own power source." People will remain unplugged if they feel cornered, managed too closely, coerced, or spit upon.
When your need to dominate supersedes your ability to hear others' viewpoints, you have lost your perspective (and possibly your audience). Instead of command and control, what about encouragement and support? I love one of Ryan's pieces of advice; she urges managers to ask their employees "what am I doing that's useful," and "what am I doing that you find unhelpful?" Issuing edicts leaves little time for self-reflection, or what's most needed from referent power bereft bosses – self-development.
Pointing fingers diverts attention from polishing one's persona. It puts the recipient in a strait jacket of (1) don't touch anything; (2) don't talk to anyone; and (3) don't say anything. This behavior is helpful to those who "manage" employees, but does little to help one feel like a peer. People on a profound level want an understanding of "I don't work for you, you don't work for me, but together we accomplish mutual goals." Synergy is forged through equality – not forced from directives. Individuals enjoy being asked what to do, not told what to do. Kindergarten superimposed upon adults evokes rebellion. More than that, the grownups don't appreciate it. It's difficult to perform at your best when someone is standing behind you with a stick.
In an experiment this term I tried the "flipped classroom" concept, in which instructors transform from a "sage on the stage" to a "guide on the side." When I provided general guidelines and let students run with the project, the results were astounding. Hopefully they will be treated in a similar fashion at their employer post-graduation – instead of in the master and commander style to which many are accustomed. People don't perform at their best when there's a downside for non-compliance, but no upside for top performance
Motivational theory suggest higher order needs are motivational – these being recognition, achievement, and autonomy. Discretionary effort is thus elicited by offering instruction per request. Instead of using others to make yourself feel important, why not instead instill in them a sense of pride? Help others to be their best selves, and they will rise to the challenge. Put obstacles in their way, and you will shut them down. The end product reflects your quality of choosing.


text:
David Teten
Investor, Founder
For my new Fast Company column, my coauthor Scott Allen and I had a chance to have a conversation with Greg Head, ACT!'s former General Manager, about the need for increased privacy, interoperability, and personal responsibility as contact management and social networking software converge:
Contact management software will always be centered around a database of contact information that tracks basic name, addresses, and other data — combined with powerful methods of managing countless commitments and a history of all relationships. That said, we will be doing more contact management activities using an Internet browser or PDA phone, as opposed to just Windows applications. These new methods will allow more integration to the phone and to Web services that can integrate into contact managers — to scrub addresses, to integrate with accounting applications, or to share your relationship data with others.
Head also had some thoughts about Microsoft's role in the social networking space, as well as centralized directory services like Plaxo:
I may be a little biased in this regard, but I think that Microsoft will have to make some fundamental changes to develop the level of trust that is required for people to track, share, and leverage social network information in a Microsoft-hosted world.
In fact, even centralized public directory services such as Plaxo might not be able to meet every users' needs because of concerns with privacy and inconvenience.
These services might be useful for the user — but are not so useful for the recipient of the "update your contact information" request. As the centralized nature of some of these become known, people will be even more reluctant to send their contact data off across the Internet.
Ultimately, though, Head says it's more about personal responsibility and process as the tools themselves:
The majority of salespeople and businesspeople are still fighting the first phase of this battle:
just tracking all of their follow-up and project commitments in a reliable system.
Contact managers provide the tools, but the habit of tracking all commitments and managing them effectively can be different for each person.
Copyright © 2023 David Teten
Return to top of page


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Choice and Agency in the Writing Workshop: A Conversation with Fred Hamel
Date: June 8, 2017
Summary: Fred Hamel, author of Choice and Agency in the Writing Workshop: Developing Engaged Writers, Grades 4-6, joins NWP Radio to talk about why upper elementary children need ways to become literate as kids, not merely as prototypes of adults or teenagers.
Excerpt from Show
Fred Hamel on the benefits of allowing children to pursue alternative forms of composition:
I would say to educators that the visuals that Carla and Ricky and Martin were composing in the classroom that serve these variety of purposes to really help them acquire a writing identity, the visuals were a huge source, a kind of groundwork for them to be meaning makers. And I think that's the piece they needed—they needed to shape a meaning world that they could have access to. And if they're not feeling confident immediately writing the two-page narrative in double-spaced writing, and doing that alphabetically with all the complexities of that kind of composition, they needed a way to sustain a kind of meaningfulness, and the images, the pictures often became that."
Please Note: The final seconds of this show were cut off due to a technical error, we apologize for the abrupt end.
Listen to the Show
Duration: 1 hour
Download the Show
Right-click (PC) or Control-click (Mac) to download "Choice and Agency in the Writing Workshop: A Conversation with Fred Hamel"


text:
Arc news: November 2016
Vote to keep Raised Voices alive and shouting!
This month we are asking you to spend a moment of your time to help enable our Barking & Dagenham female empowerment group in the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham to keep tackling the issues that young women face today.
As you might have heard, we are very excited to be taking part in the Aviva Community Fund 2016! Our ambition is to keep our Raised Voices female empowerment group alive and (still) shouting, now our three-year Paul Hamlyn Foundation funding has ended. Please click the link below and vote for us and we will be indebted to each and every one of you! VOTE FOR ARC'S RAISED VOICES HERE!
It takes a few moments to register and you can cast up to 10 votes! Voting closes on 18 November, so there's just a short time to use your votes! Please also share with family, friends and colleagues! Thank you from all of us at Arc and all of our young female participants from the Borough.
Watch our latest Raised Voices film on YouTube here!
To find out more about Raised Voices, contact Natalie Smith at Arc Theatre on 020 8595 8509.


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What is Chitika adware (Chitika virus)?
Chitika (http://chitika.com/) is an online advertising serving platform, categorized as adware, and is often referred to as the Chitika virus, Chitika malware, Chitika Premium virus, or simply Chitika adware. Chitika displays unwanted advertisements in the form of Chitika pop-ups, in text advertisements, and mobile adverts on a variety of websites to targeted users. Chitika collects minuscule and personal information about the computer user's browsing activities, such as browser history in order to display unwanted targeted advertisements.
Chitka ads will often state that they are from Chitika in the top corner of the pop-up advertisements, as well as provide links that may include premium, settings, eMiniMalls, and others that lead to a webpage that may allow victims of Chitika pop-up advertisements to "opt out" of the Chitika advertising service. Some Chitika adverts will have text that states "click to continue by Chitika". Please note, opting out of any adware serving platform is never recommended.
Are Chitika advertisements dangerous? Is Chitika safe?
Chitika is not essentially dangerous and most advertisements displayed in Chitika pop-ups (etc) do not pose a threat, but Chitika is not entirely not safe either. Chitika is more of a nuisance than malicious entity and does invade the privacy of it's victims and entrap them to unethical terms. Chitika is even known to install to a computer and attach to an internet browser without consent from the computer user and/or owner, but having said this there have been no reports or anything to indicate that the standalone Chitika adware platform will destroy computer functionality or involve collected information in cyber crime. There have also been no reports that indicate that advertisements displayed by Chitika are malicious, though some may be irrelevant, off topic, and appear without permission. Still, I would not click on any advertisements displayed by Chitika for any reason.
Chitika may bundle with third parties, including browser attachments, who pose a threat to an infected computer system. Please note, though Chitika standalone is not essentially dangerous, the third-party software Chitika may associate with or bundle with are potentially dangerous. If Chitika has infected your computer system without your consent, it is very important to check for third party malware infecting your computer system.
How to remove Chitika & Stop Advertisements
- Chitika Removal Software And Tools – Scan for and remove Chitika and additional malware
- Uninstall Chitika platform
- Remove Chitika Add-on And Extension
1. Chitika Adware Removal Software (Antivirus Scan)
Scan and Remove Chitika from your computer system using Malwarebytes Anti-Malware (other suggested removal tools).
Instructions: 1. Install Malwarebytes 2. Update the software 3. Perform full scan (Image).
2. How To Uninstall Chitika
The instructions below detail how to uninstall Chitika and third party programs using Window's Uninstaller.
1. Access Windows Start Menu and navigate to the Control Panel.
2. Click Uninstall a program or Add and remove a program.
3. Search for Chitika and additional/suspicious software in the list of installed software. Double click Chitika to uninstall it, or highlight the program and click the Uninstall button.
3. How To Remove Chitika Add-on And Extension
Mozilla Firefox
1. Type Ctrl+Shift+A.
2. On the Extensions and Plugin search for Chitika and additional third party add-ons and remove them.
Google Chrome
1. Click on the Customize icon (wrench or 3 bar icon) next to the address bar and navigate to Tools > Extensions.
2. Search for the Chitika and additional third party extensions. Remove them by clicking the trashcan icon adjacent to them.
Microsoft Internet Explorer
1. Click Tools and select Manage add-ons.
2. On the Toolbars and Extensions tab search for Chitika and additional third party add-ons and remove them if located.
Alternative Chitika Adware Removal Options & Tips:
If Chitika is difficult to remove, please refer to alternative removal options and tips to bypass symptoms of the Chitika virus below.
System Restore
A System Restore is an easy solution to restore an infected computer to a date and time before issues. System Restores can be used to remove software that may have installed without consent, including adware serving platforms.
- To learn more please visit: http://botcrawl.com/how-to-restore-microsoft-windows-vista-microsoft-windows-xp-and-microsoft-windows-7/
Deny Flash
Many adware platforms serve pop-up advertisements utilize flash to serve pop-up ads.
- To disable (deny) flash visit: http://www.macromedia.com/support/documentation/en/flashplayer/help/help09.html and select the "Deny" radio option (pictured below).
Hosts File (Advanced)
127.0.0.1 chitika.com
Remove Hijacked Home Page
If Chitika or related websites have changed your intenet browser settings without consent including the home page use the intructions below to repair home page and trouble shoot issues.
CCleaner ↔ Install
An alternative recommendation is to use a program such as CCleaner to repair all browser settings at once with productive accuracy.
1. Install CCleaner.
2. Navigate to Cleaner > Windows/Applications and click the Analyze button. Afterwards, click the Run Cleaner button on the bottom right of the program interface.
Manually Remove Hijacked Home Page
In Google Chrome click the customize icon (wrench or 3 bars) and navigate to Settings. Click "Set pages" under the On startup option. Remove any malicious websites and replace with your preferred URL.
In Mozilla Firefox navigate to Tools > Options. Under the General tab remove any malicious URL from the "Home Page:" field and replace with your preferred home page.
In Microsoft Internet Explorer navigate to Tools >Internet Options. Remove any malicious URLs from the Home Page field and replace with your preferred URL.
Remove Hijacked Search Engine
If Chitika or related websites have changed your intenet browser settings without consent including the default search engine, causing your browser to redirect to unwanted websites use the instructions below to repair your browser's internal search engine.
CCleaner ↔ Install
1. Install CCleaner.
2. Navigate to Tools > Startup and search through each tab starting from windows, internet explorer, etc., all the way to Content Menu, for additional suspicious entries and click Disable and Delete once anything is found.
Manually Remove Hijacked Search Engine
In Google Chrome, click the customize icon (wrench or 3 bars) and navigate to Settings > Manage search engines… click the X next to any suspicious search engines.
In Mozilla Firefox, click the small search magnify glass near the search box (not url/search field) and click "Manage Search Engines…". Remove any suspicious search engines from the list by highlighting the selection and clicking remove.
In Microsoft Internet Explorer navigate to Tools > Manage Add Ons and remove the malicious search engine from the list.


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Devolver Digital Films is proud to announce the digital VOD release of the whimsical romantic comedy-drama, Don't Know Yet. Directed by Terry Linehan, the feature-length feel-good film follows a heartbroken man who lets the hitchhikers he picks up determine his direction and destiny. Everything changes when he meets a free-spirited woman who guides him on a journey of healing and self-discovery. Filmed entirely in North Carolina, the film serves as a love letter to the state and stars James Kyson (Heroes, Hawaii Five-0, Justified) and Lisa Goldstein Kirsch (One Tree Hill). Also appearing in the film are David Andrews (Terminator 3, World War Z, House of Cards) and Jane McNeill (The Walking Dead). The digital VOD (Video on Demand) release is scheduled for Tuesday, August 12, 2014 through Devolver. The film will be available via iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, PlayStation, Xbox, VUDU, Vimeo on Demand, VHX, Google Play, and others. A cable VOD release date is set for Tuesday, October 7, 2014 (check local listings). Read the rest of this entry »
More info...Devolver Digital Films, Film, Press Releases David Andrews, Devolver, Devolver Digital, Devolver Digital Films, Don't Know Yet, Film, James Kyson, Jane McNeill, Lisa Goldstein Kirsch, Lynn Tejada, PR, press release, romantic comedy, Romantic Comedy-Drama, Terry Linehan
Based in Austin, TX, Devolver Digital distributes independent video games and guides indie filmmakers through digital distribution and film promotion. Devolver Digital's outspoken passion for independent games, developers, and fans has earned the company no minor measure of game industry notoriety. With its expansion into film, in 2013, the company applies that same fiercely creative devotion and digital content expertise to support and celebrate indie filmmakers and projects. Spring & Summer 2014 releases include…
More info...Devolver Digital Films, Entertainment, Events, Film, Press Releases Allyson Sherlock, cable VOD, Charlie LaVoy, Circle the Wagen, Cleveland, comedy, Danny Trejo, dark comedy, Devolver Digital, digital distribution, digital releases, Diving Normal, documentary, Don Thacker, Don't Know Yet, Drama, dramedy, Drew Tobia, Entertainment, event, feature films, Feeding Mr. Baldwin, Film, film promotion, Green Galactic, Home, Home James, Horror / Haunted / Ghosts, How We Got Away With It, In the Shadow, James, Jeffrey Combs, Jon Lindstrom, Jonathan Rossetti, Joseph Laraja, Kristjan Thor, LA, LeBron James, Los Angeles, Losing LeBron, Lynn Tejada, Mike Wilson, Mocumentary, Motivational Growth, movies, Nathan Silver, Nicole Elmer, Nicole Prowell Hart, North America, PR, press release, public relations, publicity, releases, Ryan Steven Green, screening, See You Next Tuesday, Soft in the Head, Steve Chong Finds Out That Suicide is a Bad Idea, Terry Linehan, The Golden Scallop, theatrical releases, United States, upcoming releases, vod, Will Prescott


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The Hypothalamus and Weight Gain Connection
The hypothalamus is the body's master gland that controls many of the body's essential systems. It regulates metabolism and the physiological trigger of hunger. In fat people this gland does not operate normally. It is too toxic. That is why people who are often overweight feel like they are starving.
The gland must be reset and normalized in order to eliminate constant and intense physical hunger. The only way to do this is to eat an organic, natural diet that is good for you.
People are often very puzzled by the functions of the hypothalamus and how exactly it can control us and especially how it can control our urges to eat.
There are many reasons that this important master gland might be operating abnormally in the first place and these include –
* Candida yeast overgrowth
* Lack of digestive enzymes
* Nutritional deficiencies
* Stress
* High fructose corn syrup
* Artificial sweeteners
* Microwaved food
* Heavy metal toxicity
* Insufficient oxygen
* Environmental allergies
* Food allergies
* Parasites
* Yo yo dieting
* Air conditioning
* Lack of sleep
* Lack of fiber
* A clogged liver
There are also many other factors as well that can cause intense constant hunger including two very unusual influences that you may never have suspected could be a factor.
The first unusual factor is the lack of taste. The hypothalamus thrives on being able to experience the basic tastes that are present in most foods. This includes saltiness, sourness, sweetness, bitterness and savories. When you are on a diet the mouth is deprived of these tastes and the hypothalamus triggers you to crave foods even though the reality is that you are not hungry.
The hypothalamus also needs to experience a variety of experiences including a change of temperatures, textures and smells. It also needs to experience astringency, numbness, spiciness, blandness and coolness.
When the body is not constantly stimulated with all of these tastes then the hypothalamus starts being tricked into believing that your body is lacking food. This sensory deprivation also lowers your metabolism and increases hunger.
Therefore, in an ideal world, your hypthothalamus would be kept the most healthy if it had all of these tastes and scents at its disposal always. Who knew that deprivation of a variety of foods could actually slow down your metabolism? This is why diets based on food deprivation just do not work. Perhaps eating as many different foods every day is the answer to accelerating your weight loss because eating this way keeps the hypothalamus happy too.
If any of you ever have any questions, please contact me or leave me a comment and I will do my best to answer it. I hope you will achieve your objectives! All the best to you!


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New IT Direct Office Building!
As we continue to grow our number of employees and clients – our office space needs are also growing!
We are excited to announce that IT Direct has purchased a new 19,000-square-foot office building at 67-69 Prospect Ave. in West Hartford.
Some details can be found below and also at this link or here as well.
We'll be sure to throw a great Open House for you to attend when we move into the building later this year!
W. Hartford office sale
IT Direct has purchased a19,000-square-foot office building at 67-69 Prospect Ave. in West Hartford.
The information-technology services vendor will occupy most of the building purchased from Hartford CRE Holding Co. LLC.
The building, constructed in 1989, has three stories atop covered parking for 73 vehicles.
Chozick Realty represented Hartford CRE. Eagle Rock Retail LLC represented IT Direct.


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Yunustech specializes in lighting products for many applications. From hospital operating rooms, to horticulture and trade-shows, to retail, we provide the lighting products and services to fit your needs.
Our team includes several Certified Illumination Engineers (CIEs) with many years of lighting experience. Our strength is designing custom solutions unique to each customer in terms of lighting intensity, colour, programmability and more.
Our customers consist of leading corporate, institutional and government clients. Our products bring in our customers and our service keeps them coming back.


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Boeing 1942 Stearman A75N1 (PT-17)
Two-owner aircraft since complete rebuild/restoration by Jim Kimball Enterprises in 1998
110 TT aircraft since rebuild/restoration and 5,630 TT aircraft
Annual February 2019
Prop Hamilton Standard Model: 2B20-317
No known damage history since rebuild/restoration
Excellent ownership history/care
Engine: Lycoming 300 Model: R-680-13
110 TT E SMOH (since rebuild/restoration 1998)
Fuel – 46 Gallons
Avionics / Radios / Equipment:
Rear Cockpit:
Wet Compass
Airspeed indicator
Turn and Bank Indicator
Vertical Speed Indicator
Oil Temp/PSI Gauge
RPM/Tach Gauge
Manifold Pressure Gauge
Garmin 296
KY97A Transceiver
KT76C Transponder
Two-place intercom
Front Cockpit:
Wet Compass
Airspeed Indicator
Turn and Bank Indicator
Vertical Speed Indicator
Oil Temp/PSI Gauge
Manifold Pressure Gauge
RPM/Tach Gauge
Additional Equipment:
Navigation lights and strobe
Heavy duty steerable tailwheel from Dusters & Sprayers, Inc.
Many spare parts including extra Hamilton Standard Propeller, spare tires, original tail wheel assembly, wheel bearings, etc,
Two National backpack parachutes & two military style seat parachutes
Two leather flying helmets – each one with a Mic and Earphone
Complete 12 VDC electrical system with a Jasco Starter
Round faced BT-13 type wing-mounted fuel gauge
Air Repair red line brakes
Battery Minder 12 VDC charger Kit
Air Wolf oil filter
Full size fuselage storage compartment with lock
Aircraft Exterior:
Custom white with red and blue Navy markings
Finish – Stits fabric and dope with Amerfleet finish paint
Condition – 10
Aircraft Interior:
Standard with military bucket steel seats
Condition 9
Aircraft Status:
Offered at: $149,500
Verification of all details and specifications is the sole responsibility of buyer. Aircraft is subject to prior sale and/or removal from market.
Additional Pictures:
For additional information please contact:
Ralph Ragland
(713) 208-8822


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Lactic Acid Peel in Draper, UT
This moderately aggressive treatment is a mild AHA acid that is derived from milk. A much weaker acid than glycolic acid, lactic acid is best known as an acid peel for the removal of sun spots, hyperpigmentation, liver spots and other skin discolorations. A Lactic Acid peel is also recommended for the reduction of Rosacea as it is the mildest of AHA peels. Cosmeceuticals are then applied to supplement the skin and to assist in correcting specific conditions such pigmentation and fine lines.
Introductory Offers
Hand & Stone offers a full complement of specialty massages, facials and enhancements. Introductory Offers valid for One-Hour* Swedish Massage, Classic (or Teens/Men's) Facial or Hot Stone Massage services only. Call the spa for specialty service availability.
(Per Person)
Draper Esthetics Room
Hand & Stone Draper
Couples Massage
Hand and Stone Draper
Come Visit us at Hand and Stone Draper!
Hand & Stone Draper
Hand & Stone Relaxing Facial Room
Couples Massage Room
Hand & Stone Draper is a Clean Touch Zone
Front Area Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa
East Side Building
Front Desk with Logo
Front of building
Facial Room
LED Skin Phototherapy
The secret of the stars available now for everyoneLearn More
Join Our Lifestyle Program
Your monthly oasis with no long-term commitmentsLearn More
First Time Visit?
If you've never had a Massage or Facial, you may be wondering what to expect on your first visit to Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa. During your visit you'll experience relaxation and comfort, dedicated to your well-being and peace of mind. We want your spa experience to be a memorable one.Learn More


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Hollow Columns Holding Up I-5, I-405 Bridges Could Implode In Major Quake
Some of Washington state's busiest bridges have a surprising design feature deep inside their massive structures.
It's air.
The concrete columns supporting these bridges are hollow, and it could mean big trouble in a big earthquake.
"If a severe earthquake hit, there's a high risk that the inside could break loose, and the column could actually implode," said DeWayne Wilson, a bridge engineer with Washington State Department of Transportation. "It would collapse on the inside. We don't know exactly the level and the mechanism. But it is a high concern."
More KUOW: The Story Behind Seattle's Obsession With Craftsman Homes
Some of those bridges are being replaced. Construction is under way to replace bridges along state Route 520 in Seattle and on Interstate 5 in Tacoma as it passes over the Puyallup River.
But there are no plans to prevent other hollow columns — beneath Interstate 405, Interstate 5 or elsewhere — from collapsing in a big earthquake.
Western Washington has more than 20 bridges built like this, many of them on the region's busiest highways.
WSDOT officials have known that the columns are vulnerable for at least 15 years. Engineers have known for twice as long.
Wilson said the agency is more concerned about regular deterioration on older bridges. He said the greatest risk of bridge failure in Washington and nationwide is from rivers scouring away bridge foundations.
More KUOW: Bernie Or Hillary? This Quiz Will Help You Decide
Hollow Hotbeds
WSDOT is responsible for some 3,200 bridges around the state.
Compared to other earthquake-prone regions, western Washington has an unusual concentration of highways on hollow supports.
In the early 1960s, when America's new interstate highway system was growing at breakneck speed, a Tacoma company called Concrete Tech pioneered the use of a stronger material called pre-stressed concrete on highway projects. The stronger concrete meant builders needed less of it to make a column strong enough to hold up a bridge.
More KUOW: Where Do Seattle-Area Crows Go At Night?
Those hollow columns were light enough to be built in the Tacoma factory and then trucked up to construction sites around western Washington.
Local bridge builders snapped them up, and the Puget Sound region became a hotbed of hollow-column bridges.
It made sense at the time. The hollow columns are nearly as strong as solid ones—at least when the earth isn't moving.
"Especially in the early 60s, earthquakes just weren't a thought to most bridge engineers," Wilson said.
On the East Coast and in other areas where earthquakes are rare, hollow-column bridges are still being built, according to Concrete Tech engineer Steve Seguirant.
"In areas where there aren't seismic concerns, they're still very popular," he said.
In western Washington, Seguirant said hollow-concrete columns are still used for docks and piers. In those waterfront applications, they're used in tandem with other columns built to absorb the sideways forces of an earthquake, so the hollow columns won't have to.
'Stop Talking And Run'
John Stanton, a University of Washington engineering professor, stood beneath Seattle's Portage Bay bridge on SR 520, which is supported by hollow columns. He was in a grove of concrete columns in the Montlake neighborhood, with the humming highway roughly 50 feet overhead.
If an earthquake hit, he would "stop talking and run to get out from underneath the bridge very rapidly." "This is not a good place to be in an earthquake," Stanton said.
Stanton's experiments in the 1980s showed that hollow columns could implode in a big quake.
"A couple of other people had noted the same thing before that, so it wasn't news," he said. "At the time, I was not aware that WSDOT had built a lot of bridges using these very large hollow columns."
Decisionmakers didn't pay much attention to WSDOT's large, hollow columns until a barge accident on Lake Washington.
One night in the summer of 2000, a wayward gravel barge plowed into the state Route 520 bridge. A column shattered. The accident helped spur the current megaproject to replace a half-dozen bridges on 520 and its various ramps.
A year later, the 2001 Nisqually earthquake generated more interest in making the region's infrastructure more resilient. But WSDOT engineers decided hollow-column bridges weren't a priority.
"Nisqually, these bridges survived very well," Wilson said. "They didn't experience any damage at all."
Wilson said he's pretty confident that most of the state's bridges can weather the moderately large earthquakes, like the Nisqually quake, that routinely hit the region.
But the Nisqually quake was nowhere near as big as what might hit us: a magnitude 9 megaquake from the Cascadia Subduction Zone off the Northwest coast.
"If we get the big one that they're expecting, which would be the subduction zone earthquake, there's a potential for damage at different places," Wilson said. "Probably the most logical place is up where the column meets the bridge."
Geologists say there's about a 10 to 15 percent chance of a big one from the Cascadia Subduction Zone hitting us in the next 50 years. A big one could also strike from the Seattle Fault that runs right through the city.
So far, WSDOT has spent $193 million to seismically retrofit old bridges that don't have the problematic hollow columns.
The agency has focused mostly on bridges that would be critical if the Seattle-Tacoma region needed to recover from a massive earthquake. WSDOT calls it the "seismic lifeline." Its goal is to prevent key bridges from collapsing in a megaquake.
That partially completed lifeline is in long-term limbo for lack of funding.
"The big picture is, we've addressed a lot of seismic needs, but there's a lot more to go," Wilson said.
"Over the next six years, we are not funding any additional seismic retrofits," he said.
"Wow. That's unfortunate," said Jugesh Kapur, former state bridge engineer. "California and others, they've really paid a lot of attention to their retrofit program and taken care of all their major bridges." Kapur has been working as an engineer in North Dakota after WSDOT fired him in the wake of major design flaws on the SR 520 bridge project.
An Expensive Operation
There's no known way to make hollow columns resist earthquakes better.
Attempting to fill a hollow column with concrete would probably just cause it to burst from the added pressure.
WSDOT has wrapped cylinders of steel around some solid bridge columns. But such a steel jacket wouldn't stop a hollow column from crumbling apart on the inside.
WSDOT has asked John Stanton to see if there's a way out of this conundrum.
Stanton said filling columns with some sort of lightweight material seems promising, though it would probably require pouring it in through a hole in the side of each column.
"And making a hole in the side of a column doesn't seem like a very good idea of the column is already thought to be too weak," he said.
Stanton believes the columns can be strengthened, but "with great difficulty. I suspect it'll be quite an expensive operation."
Stanton said if WSDOT funds the work, he would need about a year and a half to study a possible fix. Any actual fixes would be many years down the road.
The state legislature fully funded replacing the remaining hollow-concrete bridges near the western terminus of state Route 520 in Seattle last year.
That work will take more than a decade to complete.
Even if fixing the missing links in the region's seismic lifeline would be expensive, Stanton said doing so now makes sense.
"Right now, we're in a period of very low interest rates, and this would be a perfect time to invest in infrastructure because, essentially, you can buy cheap," Stanton said. "So, why aren't we doing that?"
Of course, all levels and agencies of government, not just WSDOT, have competing demands for the tax dollars they spend.
WSDOT estimates more than $1.4 billion of seismic upgrades are still needed on the state's highways. That figure doesn't include an estimate for replacing or fixing the state's hollow columns.
"Unfortunately, it will take another seismic event for this whole program to come in the limelight again," Kapur said.


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I've technically raced twice this year (3,000 m on the track and the 8
mile Re-Fridgee-Eighter, both in February), I feel like New York City
Half was my 2014 season opener.
lingering), like many I was looking forward to spring racing. I flew
from Billy Bishop in Toronto to NYC and had a great weekend. David Monti
and his NYRR pro athlete crew were amazing. Like Alan Brookes and his
CRS crew, they were attentive to every detail, in a very professional
and personal manner. The food, communication, race details, and
friendliness was exceptional. I had been told the team was great, by
Mary Davies (who just wrote an amazing post on running and pregnancy, here) and many others, and they did not disappoint.
travel Friday was a bit long but that is to be expected in big cities.
So once I finally checked into my room, I headed out for an easy 5 km in
Central Park, which was conveniently 500 m from the hotel. Runners
galore are in that park as well as horse n' buggy rides for tourists who
want to pay $4 USD per minute! Being among some of the world's best
made for some entertaining scenes. More than once I saw people stop in
their tracks and drop their jaws after spotting people like Olympic
medalists, Meb Keflezighi and Mo Farah.
briefly meeting my roommate, I headed out to get some dinner and take
in a bit of the city. I knew I'd have time to check things out Sunday,
after the 7:30 am race, so I just wandered. It was really neat to come
across so many big NYC sites like Time Square and Broadway. Our hotel
was located in the heart of the action, that's for sure.There was a buzz
in the air!
low key with breakfast, an easy 8 km in Central Park, massage, lunch,
rest, technical meeting, and dinner with my friendly roommate, Laken
from Total Sports Management . It was nice to get to know her, an athlete and mom herself. She was there to represent Sally Kipyego who later won and broke the course record in her half marathon debut! Sally
may be a super fast Olympic and World Silver medalist in the 10,000 m
but I was the expert in teaching her about toenail losses! She had to
wear flip flops Sunday because of the pain in her big toe! Clip first. Then run.
was "cool" as forecasted but I knew that wouldn't bother this Canadian!
Warm up of a 20 min jog and gentle stretching while staying warm and relaxed with cheery US runner,
Lauren W. from the Asics Mammoth club (Andrew and Deena Kastor) went
well and shortly after the American Anthem, we were off. It was a very
deep field in which I was seeded at about 11th or 12th with my 70:52
from Scotiabank Vancouver 2013. US 5km record holder and fellow Saucony
athlete Molly Huddle was also debuting. And Des Linden was there after
her 6 week training block with Lanni in Kenya, preparing for Boston. I
knew the girls would be fast and well ahead of me but was hoping to tuck
nicely into a chase pack. This didn't happen. The rest of us were
sprinkled throughout and ran mostly solo. I did have one guy with me for
about 5 km or so, which was helpful. The NYC half and full marathon
courses aren't easy. Starting with several km of rolling hills in
Central Park really threw me off. It seemed to take forever to get out
before reaching a flat section. I didn't find the hills that difficult
but the start was slow and I simply lost time, early in the race. I'm
used to pushing hard in the end, maintaining pace regardless of the
hills. So it was no surprise, and an increase in my confidence as my
season opener, that I had such a big negative split. The last, long
stretch of the race (7 km or so?) felt like I was flying (and it was
somewhat downhill, not sure how much). My finish was 72:26, which is
technically a PB for a certified, record eligible course. My placing was 12th, good for the last bit of prize money!
3:12 and slowest 3:36. What a difference.
chatted a bit, talking about the ages of our kids, injuries and future
plans. What a kind, down to earth man. Here's 2 quotes from his website:
"Like the marathon, life can sometimes be difficult, challenging and
present obstacles, however if you believe in your dreams and never ever
give up, things will turn out for the best." – Meb. And
"I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me!" – Phil 4:13.
What a great guy!
afternoon we had a wonderful after race dinner at an amazing Italian
restaurant. Laken and I sat with some athletes and coaches from Germany
and Japan. It was great to get to know them.
the dinner I set out to take in the city. After 3 hours of walking, I
stopped to get souvenirs at the massive M & M store, enjoyed
something to eat at a diner across the street and packed my things. I
wanted to get in an easy run and breakfast before our 9 am departure so
was in bed by 11 pm.
next is the Around the Bay 30 km road race. Rachel Hannah is running and
that girl is fit so I must stay sharp. I'll be racing more this spring
than ever so recovery will be key to stay healthy and injury free.
|It was such an
honour to meet fellow Canadian, Diane Roy who won the first ever
wheelchair title at the NYC Half Marathon. Canadians John Mason, Reid Coolsaet and
Eric Gillis also raced.
|A little promo picture for our September Harvest Half Marathon with proceeds going to the Kenyan Kids Foundation.
Wesley Korir (2012 Boston Marathon Champ) will be running the Ottawa
Marathon in May and his wife, Tarah will be returning to Ontario to run
some races in April and May. Read about it here.
|Was great to get to know Team Japan. These guys are huge celebrities at home where running is equivalent to Canada's hockey.
|Lots of Irish gear this weekend.
|Rockefeller. Should have packed my skates! Our kids would love this with the lego store nearby.
|The Plaza.
After confirming it was indeed the hotel from Home Alone – Lost in New
York, I snapped a picture as this kind man replied, "Yes, but I'm not
the man from the movie and Kevin is much older now.".
|Central Park.
|Sunday, March
16 was also Jonathan's birthday. We had his cake last week and the kids
and his sister took good care of him while I was away racing. Thanks,
Trip home NYC to Brantford, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm:
taxi to train to air train to airplane to ferry to shuttle to gotrain to van!
Sites seen in NYC:
of Liberty, Empire State Building, Grand Central Station, Rockefeller
Centre, Radio City Music Hall, Broadway, Plaza Hotel (Home Alone!), Time
Square, David Letterman Building, NBS News, CNN, Trump Tower, Central
Park and hundreds of yellow taxis.
Krista DuChene,
Marathon Mom


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WATConsult, the digital and social media agency from Dentsu Aegis Network India, has added Domino's Pizza to its roster of clients. The agency will be managing Domino's social media platforms i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat. The account won in a multi-agency pitch will be managed by WATConsult Delhi.
Rajiv Dingra, Founder and CEO, WATConsult said, "We are very delighted to welcome Domino's Pizza in our bouquet. The space that Domino's operates in is a very complex and extremely competitive one thus we are looking forward to produce some really exciting work in the coming future."
Also Read: StayHappi announces Vidya Balan as their 2nd Brand Ambassador
Commenting on the development, Mr. Anand Thakur, Chief Digital Officer, Jubilant FoodWorks Limited said, "We are delighted to announce that we have selected WATConsult as our digital media partner after a rigorous selection process. We believe their innovative approach will take the brand to the next level. Through this collaboration, we look at harnessing their rich experience in digital space to strengthen and expand our digital outreach".
WATConsult is one of the leading and most awarded full service digital agencies headquartered in Mumbai with branches in Delhi and Bangalore. Since its inception in 2007, the agency has handled digital and social media mandates for more 200 clients including Vero Moda, Only, Mother Dairy, Nikon, Croma, Godrej, Radio Mirchi, Sony Six, Dabur, Himalaya, SBI Mutual Fund, Tata Housing, BabyCell ranging across various sectors like Fashion & Lifestyle, FMCG, Consumer Electronics, BFSI, Education, IT, Real Estate and Decor, Auto and Entertainment and many more.
WATConsult has always been in talks for winning awards nationally and internationally as it has won more than 200 awards including a GRAND PRIX at Prague International Advertising Festival. It is the only Indian Digital Agency to have made its way to Cannes Lions 2018.


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Christine Graham
Hiring Manager
Dayjob Ltd
120 Vyse Street
10th April 2016
Dear Ms Graham,
In response to your recent advertisement on the Dayjob.com website for a Field Service Engineer, I would like to be considered for the position and have attached my CV with this letter for your kind consideration.
With my previous experience in carrying out routine planned maintenance servicing, and my expertise at working with the customer service teams to ensure complete client satisfaction, I feel I would make an ideal candidate for you opening.
I am totally committed to delivering unrivalled service levels and a high quality of work to any clients who I look after. I strongly believe in delivering first class solutions that will contribute to the success of those businesses whom I am tasked with looking after.
Your insistence that an applicant is able to take part in client facing situations, fits perfectly with my ability to communicate effectively with and build good working relationships with clients, colleagues and contractors alike. In addition to this I must also point out that I have in the past worked on contracts that have included many well-known brands and household names.
In my current role I am the go to person for all engineering related issues, queries and problems. During the course of my work I am required to travel to satellite locations, including factories, power generating stations and other sites as required by customers. I am involved in logging faults, escalating jobs to relevant members of the team and keeping users updated on progress and completion of all incidents.
Right now I would like to work for a company that is supportive of its staff and works hard to help them realise their potential and build a successful career.
I enclose a copy of my CV and hope you will look favourably upon my application.
If you feel that my expertise is a close match to your requirements and that an interview will be to our mutual benefit, then please do not hesitate to contact me.
Yours sincerely,
Address 1
Address 2
Tel: 0044 121 638 0026
Email: email@example.com
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Dr. Nicole R. Basa, Certified in Breast Ultrasound by the American Society of Breast Surgeons
Dr. Nicole Basa is board-certified in General Surgery by the American Board of Surgery, Certified in Breast Ultrasound by the American Society of Breast Surgeons and is fellowship trained in Minimally Invasive Surgery at UCLA. Dr. Basa is the Assistant Clinical Professor of Surgery at Texas A&M University and graduated at the top of her General Surgery class at USC. For the last three years in a row Dr. Basa has been awarded the Patients Choice Award from Vitals.com, which is given to fewer than 5% of the physicians in the country.
The first and currently the only breast surgeon in Austin and the surrounding areas to be certified in Breast Ultrasound.
Dr. Basa is a member of The American Society of Breast Surgeons and performs breast surgeries for treatment of breast cancer such as mastectomies and lumpectomies.
She also treats non-malignant breast masses and uses the latest in ultrasound imaging technology. She is able to perform ultrasound guided breast cyst aspiration and small mass removals in the office by using the Terason Ultrasound Imaging System. This saves our patient's time and resources by having their ultrasound done by the surgeon, in the surgeons office. Many patients can get the necessary biopsy, cyst aspiration or removal of a mass during the same visit without being referred out to a radiology facility and then waiting for the results to come back.
Above: Ultrasound guided needle aspiration of breast cyst which Dr. Basa performs in the office.


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Iota Collection
Shape Divider - Style mountains
Shape Divider - Style mountains
Polaris AB: Cosmic Messages - Iota Collection
Understanding the creative process
The reality of the world around us is based on learning to understand the creative process of our own unique belief system. We recognize the vibrational patterns and frequencies of energy as forms projected from our thoughts. The range of thought forms are determined by the awareness of what we believe to be real.
From early age, we are taught by parents, teachers, governments, society and culture what 'our' reality should be. We live in a world built up from a number of collective thought forms created from these beliefs.
Each of us exist as a 'signature vibration' held within a combination of energetic bodies – this provides us with a unique perspective from within the unified field known as Source energy. Our own signature vibration operates within a range of frequencies that attract thought forms that resonate on the same vibrational frequencies – like attracts like. We each determine what we want to believe and so attract the vibrations required to perceive the associated thought forms.
The thought forms are stored as patterns of energy held in the collective consciousness known as zero point. From our point of perception, we project these thought forms onto a Toric field that flows from our heart centre. The toric field is comprised of a crystalline Sacred Geometry Flower of Life pattern overlaid by an electro-magnetic hexagonal geodesic pattern. Within each thought form, the various frequencies of vibration determine the behaviour of individual elemental particles which arrange themselves into the pattern of the form. Science see these as quarks, neutrinos, leptons muons and photons which are the building blocks of energetic vibrational forms known as matter / data.
New ideas are always criticised, not because they lack consideration but because they may turn out to be correct and that can be uncomfortable for some. For something to exist in a duality world, it must have an opposite, a polarity. For an idea to be considered right, it must firstly be considered wrong. This is the nature of Third Density and all participate in this daily routine. There are those whose reputation depends on their opinions, theories and current beliefs which may be in opposition to that which is being proposed. Their jobs may depend on defending their own position regardless of the validity of the new information. It requires proof and rigorous testing which demands this is satisfied until accepted as proven - and to be proven, it must be approved. In fact, those given power to determine what can be approved decide what can been accepted as proven. This type of world is where we find ourselves NOW.
Until such time information becomes knowledge, it exists in a theta state known as theory. We exist in a sea of information and we can individually decide how to interpret, understand and believe what we wish to perceive. Our experience of information becomes our personal knowledge and that is what creates our wisdom.
Polaris AB
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Paul is available for consultations to assist with activation and connection to higher dimensional aspects of Self, manifesting and understanding Life purpose events, establishing and maintaining higher expanded consciousness states of awareness.
Paul is available for consultations to assist with activation and connection to higher dimensional aspects of Self, manifesting and understanding Life purpose events, establishing and maintaining higher expanded consciousness states of awareness.


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Lutheran Social Services of Illinois Child Foster Care Center Makeover
Media: Acrylic and Ink on Custom Cut Wood
Artist: Tony Passero
Hand cut various hot air balloon shapes on quality wood at varying sizes, then sanded and primed them. Using a palette of bright colors to pattern the 30 cut balloons, I was able to ensure that each piece was unique and provided dimension. Next, I sourced wooden baskets of varying sizes, and hand cut them to proper size in relation to the balloons, and added holes that would allow each one to be hand threaded with rope to secure the baskets to the balloons. The pieces were then applied to the walls via a custom-designed spacer and a screw system, bringing an element of depth to the project. Custom hot air balloons with "available" and "occupied" indicators were also created for each of the three family meeting rooms. Finally, over the course of two nights, a large, concrete pillar in the center of the waiting room was painted to match the style of the balloons.
The idea here is beyond providing visual interest through the installation of the art pieces—the actual baskets can be used in varying interactive ways. For instance, children can work with a counselor to write out a wish and add it to a basket, or they can draw out a frustration, add it to a basket and have it "carried away." Alternatively, some baskets have inspiring fortunes added to them.
Serving Illinois since 1867, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) is a nonprofit social service organization of the three Illinois synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). LSSI is the largest statewide social service provider, serving over 70,000 people across Illinois last year. The demographics of clients served by LSSI generally reflect those of Illinois' population, with one important exception—more than 80% of clients report an annual household income under $15,000, compared to just 12% of all Illinois households. The organization provides critical programs for the state's most vulnerable residents including foster care, mental health services, alcohol and drug treatment, affordable senior housing, residential programs for people with developmental disabilities, and programs that help formerly incarcerated individuals integrate back into society.
Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, Foster Care Branch provides supportive services for children in need and their families. Foster care services focus on placing children who have experienced neglect or abuse into a loving and secure home. Children's Community Services offers numerous other services to at-risk children and their families in their communities.


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Thor Heyerdahl Facts & Figures
Thor Heyerdahl Facts & Figures
Named after the famous Norwegian researcher and adventurer, Thor Heyerdahl, this majestic three-masted topsail schooner has voyaged around the world on countless journeys. From spring to autumn, the ship sails mainly on the Baltic Sea as a venue for sailing training events. In the winter months, it has repeatedly crossed the Atlantic Ocean and sailed in the Caribbean, especially as a 'classroom under sail' with teenage crews.
|49.48 m overall
|6,52 m
|29 m
|2.95 m
|Main Engine:
|400 HP Deutz-Diesel, 6 cylinders, constructed in 1951, max. 410 RPM
|Sail plan:
|Three-masted topsail schooner (830 m²)
|Navigation system:
|Radar, echo sounder, satellite navigator, VHF radio, transient and shortwave radio, Inmarsat C (according to GMDSS), magnetic compass, weather fax, satellite telephone and fax, AIS
|4 cabins for captain and regular crew, 10 guest cabins with berths for 34 persons


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One of the difficult jobs to start a blog is choosing a WordPress Theme. A good theme depends on many factors: code structure, SEO optimized, fast loading, security… It will affect your growth and revenue in the future.
Before viewing out the best MythemeShop themes, I want to tell you that Why You Should Buy MyThemeShop WordPress Theme?
- Fully Responsive: MyThemeShop's all themes are fully responsive. It has awesome reading experience on different screen resolutions from iPhones, smartphones, and tablets to laptop and desktop computers.
- SEO Friendly: All themes have clean and efficient coding as per SEO point of view, so it will load your site faster and also improve your page rank. Coding is also one of the important factors for SEO purpose.
- Translation Ready: MyThemeShop's most of the themes are translation ready, you can easily add a translation file and be off and running thanks to the translation-ready features.
Now in this post, We'll see the top MyThemeShop theme in 2019.
- Premium Support: This is an important thing because if you have no idea how to customize it then you stuck on it. But don't worry MyThemeShop's premium support is available to help you if you face any problems.
Well, below is a list of best WordPress themes by MyThemeShop, I hope this post is useful for you.
1. SCHEMA – Fastest SEO WordPress Theme
Schema is the fastest loading, ultra-SEO friendly WordPress theme. Featuring all the best MyThemeShop features, including our custom options panel, all our shortcodes and widgets, and a pixel-perfect design, Schema also includes rich snippets in order to help search engines your site and rank you higher.
2. Magnus – An Aesthetically Pleasing Theme
Magnus is a powerful WordPress theme that helps you create elegant blog posts. It is an SEO-friendly theme with clean and schema-ready code. It also works with page-builder plugins flawlessly so that you can enjoy customizing every bit of your website.
6. Cyprus – A Beautiful WordPress Theme
Cyprus theme is unique in the way it looks and functions. Its clean and optimized design will improve your rankings, get you more traffic and generate more leads. It is an SEO-friendly theme with clean and schema-ready code. It also works with page-builder plugins flawlessly so that you can enjoy customizing every bit of your website.
4. SOCIALLYVIRAL – WordPress Blog Theme Will Boost Social Shares, Traffic & Revenue
SociallyViral is a beautifully developed WordPress style that is developed to be interesting, quickly, and most notably, boost viral web traffic. With attributes to aid boost social sharing, you'll obtain more website traffic from the internet's leading social media sites as well as additionally improve your search engine positions.
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If you have actually even intended to gain even more cash from ads on your website, Ad-Sense is the one you must obtain. It is one of the most advertisement pleasant themes out there and comes with attributes like much better ad administration, ad placement, advertisement blocker discovery and content securing for advertisement block users. Basically, this theme aids show advertisements to individuals who do not want to see the advertisements.
6. Coupon – Best WordPress Coupon Theme You Always Wanted To Earn More
Coupon WordPress Theme is a beautiful and professional theme built from the ground up for the coupon business. Impress your visitors and convert more sales with this highly professional and fully customizable theme. The best theme for selling coupons, full stop!


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Traditional red sauce isn't quite as quick to make as alfredo sauce, but it's another simple option. This simple recipe will produce a very nice, yet simple, homemade pasta sauce.
Pasta Sauce Ingredients
You're going to need:
- six to eight nice large tomatoes
- two green peppers
- four garlic cloves
- three onions
- olive oil
- and a bunch of salt and pepper
How to Cook Homemade Pasta Sauce
Chop your tomatoes, peppers, onions, and garlic as finely as you want. If you prefer a smooth pasta sauce you can chop everything as finely as possible. For a chunky tomato sauce, leave everything big. In chunks, even.
Pour a quarter cup of olive oil into your pot and heat over medium heat. Wait until the oil is hot before you add all of your veggies and your garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and simmer for at least thirty minutes. Longer is usually better.
If the mixture seems too thick for your liking, add water and continue simmering.
Pasta Sauce-Making Tips
- There are hundreds of possible variations you can make on pasta sauce. Don't be scared to experiment with different spices and ingredients.
- Mushrooms are a nice addition, if you're into that sort of thing.
- If you're going to bother making your own homemade pasta sauce, you should consider making your own fresh homemade pasta as well.
- When making this recipe don't be shy to multiply the ingredients and make a giant batch up in an oversized pot – this pasta sauce can be easily frozen and used for a while.
More recipes:
This is a very easy chili recipe that you can cook on the stovetop with any decent sized pan. Prepar...
Today we're going to learn how to make a classic. A traditional beef stew. This takes a little while...
This is a simple recipe for sweet homemade salsa. While less popular than a good spicy salsa, a swee...
Since we're already making tomato sauce, let's throw some of the leftovers in a bowl and make up an ...


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'ArcheBlade' is a multi-player action fighting game in which users take sides and fight against one another. Archeblade is inspired by arcade fighting games and multi-player FPS games, and it provides both the special moves and combos found in an arcade fighting game and the team play and strategy found in an FPS game.
Multiple Champions to Choose: Taking a queue from the MOBA genre, ArchBlade tries to keep each match fresh with a large selection of champions to choose from, each featuring starkly different abilities (5 total).
Varied Maps: From team deathmatch style maps to Capture the Point, ArchBlade attempts to keep the action strategic to prevent everyone from just clashing in one big brawl in the middle of the map.
Fighting Game Elements: While basic players can just spam attacks in any order to try to deal out damage, more advanced techniques including hitstuns, juggles, and EX-moves allow pro players to dominate their opponents once learning the nuance of each champions skills.


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When you are raising your family away from the place where you were raised, you have to build your own traditions. One of ours is to make Spanish hot chocolate every time it snows, which in Chicago, is quite a bit. Actually, I write this as we are getting a Valentine's Day snowfall.
Thin and sugary American hot cocoa will never do for a Spaniard. Our hot chocolate is thick, and dark, not so sweet and it even has a hint of bitterness. You need Spanish chocolate to make it.
I will always remember the birthday parties of a childhood friend, whose mom used to make hot chocolate on a wood fueled kitchen's iron stovetop, and who always served it in this tin coffee pot. In my set of memories, it will always be the best hot chocolate I ever tasted. Since my kids won't have a chance to taste that one, I have come up with my own version.
It is not complicated, although it requires some love and patience, since you have to cook it "a fuego lento", Spanish for low and slow fire. And some digging. Spanish chocolate comes in bars and powder form, although I prefer the former. I bring mine from Spain every time I go, and if you visit from there in the winter, the price of room and board with us are a few bars of it. You can find it in the US. Treasure Island and World Market often carry it, as do some delicatessen stores like the gourmet shop at Binny's, Latincity's market, or the little shop at Café Ibérico. Online you can find it on Amazon and La Tienda. Alternatively, you can befriend native Spaniards and convince them to bring you some when they travel there.
Normally you accompany it with something to dunk in it. We prefer plain white bread, but churros (you can find frozen ones at Trader Joe's) and Maria cookies are popular options too.
Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients (for six servings):
-5 cups of whole milk -20 onzas of Spanish Chocolate a la taza. Roughly 4 onzas per cup. Onzas in Spanish refers here to the little squares in which a chocolate bar is divided). I personally mix two brands, Valor and Pedro Mayo, because the second one adds a touch of bitterness. But you can use any other brand.
1. Pour the milk in a 2 quart pot, and turn the stove to medium.
2. Break the chocolate in pieces following the square lines, and add it to the milk.
3. Start stirring with a wooden spoon, the same way you would do with risotto.
4. Keep stirring, for about 15 minutes, until the chocolate is bubbling. I told you it requires a bit of love.
5. Once the chocolate is bubbling, let it raise a bit, very carefully. When it's close to overflow the pot, remove it from the heat.
6. Repeat step 5.
7. Let it rest for ten minutes. Stir again, and serve. Enjoy!
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We are coming up on the five-year anniversary of our center's (Charlotte Buddhist Vihara's) opening ceremony which took place on a full moon day, in July 2013.
~ Five years of goodness, service, of introducing people to Buddhism and meditation, Dhamma teaching, spiritual development, and countless acts of generosity and kindheartedness. ~
Now that's worth celebrating!
On Saturday July 21st we will hold a traditional Buddhist full moon (Esala Poya or Asalha Puja*) program early in the morning, including meditation, then enjoy pleasant social time to celebrate the Vihara's anniversary.
Next we will hold the traditional chanting program prior to lunch dana (Refuge & Precepts, offerings), along with a special annual "Invitation" ceremony to formally encourage Ayya Sudhamma to continue to reside here at Charlotte Buddhist Vihara.
Schedule (welcome to drop-in at any time):
7:30 am: Welcome and Set up
7:45 am: Eight Precepts ceremony**
8:00 am: Breakfast potluck
8:45 – 10 am: Meditation; short Dhamma talk; discussion of the Vihara's past five years
10 – 11:15 am: Social time (welcome to bring snacks for this)
11:15 – Noon: Refuge & Precepts, Invitation, Blessings chant
Noon: Potluck lunch
1:15 – 1:45 pm: Teaching for children
2:00 pm: Our regular Meetup Meditation (Please RSVP separately for the Meetup, here: https://www.meetup.com/Meditate-with-Monk-Buddhism-in-Charlotte/events/252171530/)
2:45 pm: Group Discussion: "What Meditation and Buddhist Teachings Mean to Me".
* History of Asalha Puja/Esala Poya: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asalha_Puja
** All are welcome to either take 8 Precepts for the day, or to watch and assist. Explanation of 8 Precept observance; http://www.accesstoinsight.org/lib/authors/nanavara/uposatha.html


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It's hard to believe that I've been a Dungeon Master for almost 28 years. It's crazy! And Gods knows, I probably spent a lot of that time sucking at it, too.
(My players would probably argue that I still suck at it, but I digress.)
Anyways, I've learned a few tricks along the way that make my games enjoyable. Or at the very least, ensure that I've got a regular crowd of folks that want to play every week.
Here are some of those of philosophies that I've learned to live or die by.
#1 – It's the players' story, too.
Man, I love storytelling and coming up with stuff. But ultimately, it's the players' stories, too. It's just as much about what they want to see happen and you doing your best to make it happen. Now, that doesn't mean you hand them everything they want. There's gotta be some challenge. But make sure they've got a voice in how the story flows, too.
#2 – Read the room.
Not too long ago, I had a young kid playing in my campaign. He had some nutty love story concocted for his character and was really leaning on it. So I worked it in; however, I made it so that the other person wasn't interested in him and was dating someone else. Not saying that they wouldn't someday, uh… "hook up", but hey. Love is work.
Well, I don't think the dude saw it that way. A couple weeks later he quit the group claiming his parents wouldn't let him play anymore. Of course, we all saw him a month later with another group. Ouch.
The mistake I made, I think, was not reading what the guy actually wanted. He was young and still had an idea that romance comes easy (old guys like me know all too well that it doesn't). So I think he got offended. After all, some people play to live in fantasy worlds. Had I detected and respected that, maybe he would have continued playing?
Of course, we would have had to listen to him roleplaying his tabaxi making out with another tabaxi, so maybe I dodged a bullet there.
#3 – Don't penalize players for life things or playing the game a way you don't like.
Yo, it's a game. And it's one people do in their spare time. Nothing grinds my nerves more than people saying, "I'm going to penalize my characters because they're murder hobos" or "this guy was late, so he didn't get any experience." That just plain sucks and it's a shitty way to play the game. Life penalizes us plenty. People don't need that shit in the game, too.
I've done that stuff in the past and let me tell you: it only ends with people getting pissed.
Now, if they're disruptive, shitty, or consistently causing problems, that's a different story.
#4 – Get rid of toxic players fast.
On the same token, if you've got a player that's disruptive, shitty, or just doesn't seem to care, don't keep them around just because you need an ass in a seat. Boot that knucklehead.
Of course, that involves confrontation. But I go to my stock phrase:
"Hey, dude. I don't think this is working out. Out of respect for the other players and myself, I'd kindly like to ask you to leave."
Toxic players ruin the game for everyone. Plus, I suspect that 9/10 campaigns that fall apart do so because of a toxic player in the group.
#5 – Set a play time that works for you and keep it.
You're the Dungeon Master. You put all the work in. Therefore, the game should be played when you're available, not when your players are. Now I know that there's some fear that you won't be able to have some of your favorite people in the game because it doesn't work for their schedule, but if you start doing the schedule shuffle, you'll end up driving yourself (and the players) crazy.
The only time I ever move my game is when I have a scheduling mishap of my own and I let the players know way, way in advance. Otherwise, it's the same day and time each and every week, even if one or two people can't make it.
You must be consistent.
#6 – Prepare but don't go crazy.
I'm an insane person. I write 10,000 words per day. But that's my full-time job. You don't have to do the same thing. It's okay not to write out the name of every single person that lives in a village. You don't have to map out every "what if" situation for your campaign. That kinda stuff creates burnout. Don't do it! Unless, of course, you enjoy all that stuff.
Just make sure that you've got enough together that it doesn't seem like you're just pulling stuff out of your ass. And these days it's easy! There's shit all over the internet. Hell, this website alone has 300,000 words worth of free shit for you to use.
There ain't no shame in using an adventure module or someone else's resources. Hell, I almost never draw my own maps. And despite having some 200+ monsters of my own, I still turn to the Monster Manual all the time for ideas.
#7 – Don't be a Dungeon Master just because nobody else will.
This is another one of those things I hate to see. Being a Dungeon Master isn't easy, I get it, but if you're the Dungeon Master because nobody else will, then chances are you probably aren't going to enjoy it. You're probably not going to prepare enough, you're going to make overpowered DMPCs (which, I fucking detest by the way), and you're going to do shit that's going to annoy the other players. Simple as that. Be a DM because you want to be a DM not because you drew the shortest fucking straw.
#8 – Know the rules.
This sounds pretty obvious, but man, unless you want to watch your games fall apart pretty quick, you better learn the rules. That's not to say that your players are going to take advantage of you. But little details can get missed and really imbalance the game.
For example, I had a 9th-level monk in my campaign that kept running up the ceilings like Spider-man and punching my flying/climbing monsters. Turns out, that it couldn't actually do that. Not his fault! The wording was tricky. But it sure did make tougher challenges less tough and ultimately kind of boring.
And I get it. It's three huge, college-sized textbooks worth of rules you need to learn. You ain't gonna be able to cram this shit in overnight. If you could, you should probably consider a career in the legal field or as an actuary. But try to learn a little something new every day. Hell, I'm still learning stuff!
#9 – The goal is to have fun.
This is another one that seems obvious (and probably a little redundant with some of the others) but Dungeons & Dragons is a game. It's for people to have fun. If people stop having fun, it's no longer a game, it's a chore. And I hate chores.
I will continue to Dungeon Master until it stops being fun. I suggest you do the same.
#10 – Be the Dungeon Master you'd want to play for.
Finally, this is the big one, but imagine how you'd like to play the game. What sort of challenges would you like to see? What would make it fun for you? What sort of experience would you want to have? Now, that doesn't mean you're putting yourself into the game (again, I hate DMPCs, ugh), but by being your own ideal DM, chances are you'll become the ideal DM for your players, too.
Thanks for reading!
Did I miss anything? Am I full of shit? Let me know down in the comments!
And if you aren't already, be sure to follow along with the blog. Sign up using the form in the right sidebar or down in the footer.
See you next time.
Art by Wizards of the Coast.


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NedFest Soldiers On Under New Non-Profit Group
BY Brian F. Johnson
August 24 – 26
Jeff Guercio Memorial Baseball Park, Nederland, Colo.
NedFest suffered the tragic loss of its founder Michigan Mike Torpie in late 2011. But luckily for the festival, the town of Nederland and Torpie's legacy, the event is soldiering on.
In Torpie's name, a non-profit organization named Peak to Peak Music Education Association has been formed, which will preside over the event. The group's goal is to raise money through the festival that will be donated to organizations along the Peak to Peak corridor to enhance and increase instructional and experimental music education among children.
The annual three-day festival started in 1996 in Chipeta Park, and after a short hiatus it moved to its current location at the ballfield, where it's been going steady since 1999. Over the years, the bluegrass and improv-heavy festival has attracted some legendary artists from David Grisman and Leftover Salmon, to the Grateful Dead's Bill Kreutzmann and the Funky Meter's George Porter, Jr.
You're going there to see: Steve Kimock, Keller Williams and Kyle Hollingsworth together, Melvin Seals and the JGB, and the Jimmy Herring Band.
You're going to come home talking about: The surprise headliner that will be announced in early May.
Travel time:
(As calculated by maps.google.com from
Denver, Colo. to Nederland, Colo.)
Total Est. Time: 1 hour, 7 minutes
Total Est. Distance: 48 miles
YOU NEED TO KNOW: NedFest can sometimes overwhelm the little mountain town. Simply put, parking can be a bitch. But NedFest has something few festivals can offer — RTD bus service. Those who are wise will park in Boulder and take a short, and very cheap bus ride right into downtown Nederland. For less money than you pay to park at regular concerts, you can park and be chauffeured to your destination in RTD style. Barring that, though, sticking your thumb out at the bottom of the canyon usually works just as easily.
Camping: Not on-site, but family camping is available in Chipeta Park only a few hundred yards away and several other off-site locations, many of which are free.