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When you are at the bottom of the trough of a wave, always remember that the next wave will come under you and lift you up again. Life never stays static. It is forever moving and changing.
This is true in our personal lives. Nobody stays down all the time. Nobody stays up all the time. One wave is slamming you down while another is lifting you up.
It is true in politics. Sometimes I think we select our leaders out of curiosity, just to see what they will do. Then we slam them down when we discover they are imperfect. Then we get all excited about someone quite different for a while, just to experience a new kind of endorphins. Very few of us have a well-døeveloped political philosophy to guide our choices. Oh, we say we do, but when we look at the ups and downs of our national flow, we see no consistent philosophy there. Just one binge after another.
How do we go from a Bush to an Obama if there is any semblance of a consistent political philosophy? I am telling you, curiosity and a desire for some kind of change are at work.
It's all a search for magic. We keep hoping someone will pull some magic solutions out of the hat. When they don't, we boo them off the stage while another set of would-be magicians is polling to see what is on our minds. As usual, nothing great is on our minds. Just frustrations and fears. So they relabel their magic potion bottles according to their polls, and here we go again.
If a generation is roughly 21 years, each generation has something unique about it. Maybe a new generation wants free health care for all. They have seen so many people die unnecessarily, and they want the problems corrected. Then as the correct "cure" is debated, they grow weary of the debate and the wait. Such a simple dream becomes a severe political hassle. Nobody said it would be this hard and complicated. They throw the baby out with the bathwater.
Republicans and Democrats are forever on a seesaw of popularity. In 1978, we elected eight democrats and one Republican to the Hamilton County Commission. Now there are more Republicans than Democrats. Part of the Democrat decline was redistricting. Part of it was the Republicans got smarter. They saw the advantage of keeping your philosophy in the news and started a weekly luncheon group. Speakers there keep them in the news in a positive way for several days a month. But the main reason was their positions at the national level seem to be more popular in this part of the country.
It's been going that way since the original civil-rights bill passed (remember the Dixiecrats?). Republicans used those changes to their advantage.
Now some elements of change are working against them. Democrat-leaning groups, such as the Latin vote, are growing.
Many things that determine which party ascends are beyond local control, but two are not: organization and smart thinking. Organizing at the precinct level is making a comeback. And surely the Democrats will come to see that they must find a way to showcase their talent other than the annual Kefauver Dinner.
Change is always on the way, and those who manage change well will prosper.
E-mail Dalton Roberts at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Over the past year, DC's digital Adventures of Superman anthology has played host to some of the most exciting creative teams working in comics today. With the current story, though, the scale of the whole project has gotten much bigger in both creative team and subject matter. Writer Joe Keatinge has been joined by an incredible roster of talent that includes Ming Doyle, Brent Schoonover, Dave Williams, Tula Lotay and Jason Shawn Alexander to chronicle a three-part epic that spans Superman's life from 1939 all the way to the end of time, and the end result is one of the best Superman stories I've read in a while.
To find out more behind how the project came to be and what he wanted to accomplish with it, I spoke to Keatinge and got his thoughts on the reason for multiple artists, the influence of Jack Kirby on the story, and how he compares and contrasts Superman and Dracula.
ComicsAlliance: It seems like every time I talk to you, you have a new and exciting project going on, and we talk pretty often.
Joe Keatinge: That's good news, for me. Thank you. I'm glad that's the case.
CA: You're getting ready to launch Shutter, and next week is the final chapter of this big Adventures of Superman story. How long ago did you start working on Superman?
JK: It was a long time coming. In fact, it might've been this time last year that I got an email from Alex Antone, the editor of the digital comic. It was just like "Hey, man, I like your stuff." We'd never talked before or anything, he just said "We're doing this Adventures of Superman anthology, are you interested?" I said of course, and we got on the horn and ran through the whole concept. It's an anthology, you can do whatever you want, you can have Superman wear underwear or whatever…
CA: They're trunks, Joe. They're not underwear. They're trunks.
JK: [Laughs] Excuse me, trunks. I respect that correction. But yeah, I was jut like "that would be awesome." He was asking for done-in-one pitches, but the selfish part of me was like, when in comics history have people been told "just do whatever you want with Superman, in any continuity"?
It's such a rare thing, and I think the idea that he was having was that if we done-in-one stories, we can have more creators involved, and so I was like "well what if we do one story with a bunch of people? It's thirty pages, but there's five different artists involved doing different eras of Superman." Because at first, my immediate gut reaction was that if you give me Superman, my favorite era of Superman is when he's got a lion head because of all the Red Kryptonite, and I want to do something in that era. But then, it would be cool to do a Fleischer style story, something earlier, or something that nobody's ever seen before. So I just thought, screw it, I'll do it all. I'll do everything.
So I thought that we could do this three-part story where each part took place in a different era, and then, just because he's kind of the Holy Grail, I thought "I'll throw Kamandi in there and make that work." I needed a framing sequence, so, Kamandi in the future. That's perfect. Then I gave them the pitch and thought he was going to reject all of this. If you read it, there's a part where, in 1939, Superman, Batman and Dracula fight Frankenstein's monsters.
CA: Oh, we're going to talk about that, Joe. Do not worry.
JK: Yeah, I was like "This is the Chris Sims panel." But then, he sent it to Hank Kanalz, and they were both like "Yeah, this is fine." What?
And then came the part where we were casting the artists, and it was awesome. They said they were talking to Ming Doyle. She's awesome for Kamandi, done. Then I knew Brent Schoonover, and he had just posted some designs for Golden Age Superman, and Alex said "What about him?" He's a buddy, let's put him on there. Then he mentioned that Dave Williams was looking to get back into doing comics regularly, he's awesome. Then, in the third part, there's one page in 1926, and I wanted this kind of Days of Heaven look, with the farmland, and he was talking to Tula Lotay, and she's perfect, and then the rest of the third part takes place at the end of time, and it's kind of a ghost story, in a way, and he suggested Jason Shawn Alexander. I love the stuff he did on B.P.R.D., so he's perfect.
So yeah. It became this whole undertaking, and now it's finally a real thing. It's one of those things where I started working on it a year ago, and now it's a real thing. Now that it's finally here, it's hard to keep up with. Time really speeds up. It felt like forever waiting for it to come out, and now that it's here, it's gone by so quickly.
CA: I've had that experience too, where you work on it forever, and then it's out, and it's done.
JK: Exactly.
CA: I did want to talk about the multiple artists. A lot of the Adventures of Superman and Legends of the Dark Knight books are done by a specific writer/artist team, which is great, because you get to see teams that don't usually work on those characters. But with this, you've got this big story and all these different artists handling it. That was something you pushed for from the start?
JK: That was my initial suggestion, even before I had the story formulated. Part of it was completely selfish, in that I wanted to have the most amount of space to tell the biggest story with Superman. I don't know, when else in my career is someone going to tell me to do whatever I want with Superman? Probably never. But then, I was thinking about it, and the best way to use people is to set it all in different time periods, because then it has a different impact. When you switch from Ming Doyle to Brent Schoonover or Dave Williams, it's interesting from a mechanical perspective, how you're telling your story and your ability to work with different artists to convey it. That was what I wanted to do.
One of the things I love so much about Superman and the bigger characters, it applies to Batman, certainly, is just the different interpretations over time, and how much of the core of the characters remain the same over different iterations in different media, especially in comics. You go from the initial 1938 punching out politicians, leaping over buildings, to the Silver Age, lion head sometimes, every superpower ever, then getting more developed in the Neal Adams stuff. I always wanted to convey that, at least in a microcosm.
CA: Was that a challenge in terms of scripting? To cram in this story that starts in 1939 and goes to the end of time?
JK: It wasn't hard in a bad way at all. I've heard Jonathan Hickman talk about this, too, and I think I've heard Fraction talk about it: the idea of giving yourself games with every script. The game of this one was to take thirty print pages, sixty digital pages, to tell the biggest Superman story that I could possibly do. It was fun.
That's one of the reasons I love comics so much, the ability to do that. Can you even imagine trying to make a movie of that? It would drive someone insane. It's so much more fun to do it with comics. So yeah, it was a challenge, but that was the point. Why not? Why take the easy way out? I keep saying this, but it's run in my head so much over the past year: I'm fairly certain I'll never be given the chance again to cut loose on Superman like this.
CA: The thing that I noticed is that there's so much that happens, but these pages use splash panels, they're three and four panels per page, so the pages don't feel like they're overstuffed. Everything feels well-paced. Did you end up cutting anything out?
JK: No, not really. I'm trying to think. I would love to write more comics about Superman in 1939, but that part was done.
I think my general philosophy of comics, and it changes over time and with every project, but the general idea is to tell the most with the least. You've got Ming Doyle drawing comics, why would you cover her art with a bunch of word balloons? What are you going to add? It's a visual medium, man. You want to write a bunch of prose, write a novel. Write a book. What are you even doing? [Laughs]
So how can you take the storytelling mechanics of comics and tell the most with the least? That's one of the things that's so great, among the other things. You can do so much without being overbearing. When I look at comics that are 90% text, it just drives me nuts. Sometimes it works. That's how I do it.
CA: There are a few specifics that I wanted to talk about, and one of them is obviously that there's a framing sequence, and then the first thing we see — the first time we see Superman in this comic — is a team-up with 1939 purple gloves, double guns Batman, and Dracula, fighting Frankenstein's Army in a gothic castle that is "just outside Metropolis."
JK: [Laughs] I'm glad someone else appreciated that. I love that idea. The idea of the castle came from the Fleischer Studios stuff. There would always be that stuff. A mad scientist would have some ridiculous castle right outside of Metropolis city limits. What's the real-world equivalent of Metropolis, New York? That's like having a castle in the middle of New Jersey. But I love that absurdity of the Golden Age stuff. "There's a castle outside of Metropolis, whatever, go deal with it!"
I think the Dracula stuff came from the Universal Monster era of the time and the transition from Dracula. The truth of the matter, what it boils down to, is that I thought it would be cool to have Dracula team up with Batman and Superman, and again, when else am I going to get that opportunity? But part of it was to show the transition of old fiction, old fantasy and science-fiction, to superhero fiction. Stoker to Shuster. I thought that was a cool element to have in there.
CA: I'm a fan of adventure hero Dracula, and what struck me about it is that the usual setup for that idea is that Dracula is the bad guy and Frankenstein's Monster is the good guy, and here, you switch that around. It's a heroic Dracula. It's a Batman-Dracula-Superman team-up. Why did you want Dracula to be a good guy — in this one panel that I'm asking you all these questions about. [Laughs]
JK: I seriously thought at one point, I'm not just saying this, "If this thing totally bombs critically, I know one guy who will love this one panel."
CA: You know you're going to get one five-star review, two pages in.
JK: Five stars for one page! So, yeah. I always kind of figured that Dracula's immortal, he probably goes through different stages of his life. By 1939, maybe he'd go in another direction. It just seemed right and natural.
CA: That's interesting, because you have Superman as an immortal in this story, and he's eternal and unchanging. He's always the best of us.
JK: Right.
CA: So, and this might be the dumbest interview question I've ever asked, is that the difference between Superman and Dracula?
JK: Kind of! I love that notion, so I'm going to say yeah. I feel so silly getting into it like this, but in a way, it is kind of how we deal with our own sins in our lives in general. Superman is what we want to be, and maybe Dracula is what we actually end up being in our lives. I've had times in my life that I regret, when I was kind of a dick. I mean, I've never been a vampire, I don't know what that's like. But yes, that's a very key point I was trying to make with that Superman-Batman-Dracula page.
CA: The other thing I wanted to talk about is that there's a huge Kirby influence in this story, which is interesting, because it's not in the way you usually see. Usually when you see Kirby stuff applied to Superman, you see Darkseid, the New Gods, and historically, there's been a connection between Superman and Kamandi. The idea that Superman's costume is this precious relic in the days of Kamandi, I love that. But here, you don't stop with using the characters. Kamandi shows up, the New Gods show up briefly in the second part, but there's a lot of phrasing that's very Kirby. Professor Potter tells him "Behold the World That's Coming," which is from OMAC.
JK: And the first line of the story is "there came a time when the old Earth died," which is obviously from New Gods #1.
JK: I think New Gods #1, page one, is the best opening of a comic, period. I was just thinking about this because there's a Kirby group on Facebook, and Scott Dunbier was posting scans from the New Gods Artists Edition, and one of the first ones was that page. I was obsessing over it, despite the fact that I've read it so many times, just seeing the original art. It's such a great way to start a comic, with Ragnarok. That line is burned into my brain, it's come up in a couple of things I've done.
Kirby's a huge, huge influence on me. I always hated having stickers on my laptop, I never lied that idea. Why, I don't know. But at New York Comic-Con last year, the Kirby Museum was selling stickers of Kirby's signature, and I finally had something I could put on my laptop. Around the same time, I figured out how you can have your desktop wallpaper switch out, and someone posted these amazing scans of Kirby double-page spreads, so my background for the last year and a half has been Kirby spreads, every five minutes, a new one.
My point is, obviously, I have this obsession with Kirby's work. Of course Fantastic Four, of course Darkseid and Orion, but Kamandi? '70s Kirby is my favorite era of his stuff. Kamandi, OMAC, 2001: A Space Odyssey, particularly #5, is one of my favorite comics of all time. There's a lot of his stuff that the people who love Kirby, which I hope would be everyone, is into. The fact that he basically invented adventure comics as we know them, double-page spreads, whatever. There's all that, but my favorite thing about him is the sense of scale he brings to everything. Even at the age I'm at, if I discover something new of his that I haven't read before, or recently, I'm still surprised by it. Especially when you get to the later stuff like Silver Star and Captain Victory, it's so nutty. Even the stuff he didn't write, like Super Powers. I love it.
So Kirby's all over my work, just in general, but I felt for this comic in particular, since I had a 30-page comic to go from the '30s to the end of time, that sense of scale is definitely Kirby. So there were a few direct nods, but some of it is just in my comics-writing DNA at this point.
CA: It does have the sense of a Kirby story, that you're opening at the apocalypse, at the deat of Earth, and telling this big story behind it. So since it's such a big story, and you've mentioned that you don't think you'll have this chance again, is this a story where you've gotten everything you wanted to do with Superman onto the page here, or do you want to do more that you don't think you'll get to?
JK: I've debated saying this publicly before, but I think I'm going to: If I was given free reign, completely, to do whatever I wanted to do with Superman, this story would be the prequel to that run. My run would start where this ends. I don't want to say too much more than that, because I like to keep my ideas to myself, but theoretically, Superman is a character I could write forever. If you read this, this would be #0 for, potentially, a much larger run. I have a massive story in me. Will I be able to tell it with Superman? I don't know. We'll have to see.
"Strange Visitor" is available digitally in Adventures of Superman #46-48.
Superman Takes A GoPro For A Spin In Awesome Fan Film
From: http://comicsalliance.com/joe-keatinge-adventures-of-superman-interview/

subset: commoncrawl


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BEIRUT (Reuters) - Syrian forces foiled an attempted suicide car bombing in the northern city of Aleppo on Friday, state television said, a day after two bombs in the capital killed at least 55 people.
The security forces killed the bomber, who had 1,200 kg of explosives in the car, it said.
(by Dominic Evans, editing by Diana Abdallah)


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Entrance Tests and Interviews
Bryn Mawr College provides undergraduate applicants the option of submitting standardized test scores.
Students submitting test scores must have them completed by the January test date.
Interview: An interview either at the College, with an alumna admissions representative, or via Skype or telephone is strongly recommended for all candidates. Interviews should be completed by the deadline of the plan under which the candidate is applying. Appointments for interviews, information sessions, and campus tours can be made in advance by completing the campus visit request form online or calling the Office of Admissions at (610) 526-5152. The Office of Admissions is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, and is open on select Saturdays throughout the year. A student who is unable to visit the College can arrange an alumna or Skype interview by visiting the website as well.


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Zingyland acknowledges the importance of security and privacy of users' personal data, therefore has taken all appropriate measures, using the most updated and advanced methods, to safeguard the privacy and security of personal data in the most effective way. All information relating to users' personal data remain secure and confidential.
More specifically, by visiting Zingyland website and/or application, the users are requested to provide only their personal information related to their email address, which are further collected by Zingyland, in case they wish to receive newsletters. In order to ensure the privacy of transmitted data, Zingyland uses the SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption protocol. SSL Protocol is currently an international standard providing security for websites visited by internet users, used for the encryption of data transmitted between internet users and web servers. An encrypted SSL connection requires all information sent between a client and a server to be encrypted by the sending software and decrypted by the receiving software, thus providing a high degree of confidentiality while transmitting personal information. In addition, all data sent over an encrypted SSL connection are protected with a mechanism for detecting tampering – that is, for automatically determining whether the data have been altered in transit.
Access to Zingyland's servers is controlled by a firewall, which allows the use of specific services by the users while it blocks access to systems and databases which include confidential information owned by Zingyland.
Any personal data related to user's email address submitted in Zingyland's website and/or application are solely intended for the purpose of communication with users in the context of promoting Zingyland's application and are not allowed to be used by any third party, unless in compliance with the provisions of L.2472/97 on protection from personal data processing, as currently in force.
Maintaining confidentiality is considered self-evident. All information transmitted by the user to Zingyland is confidential and Zingyland has taken all appropriate measures in order to make use of it only when such is deemed necessary. More specifically, access to user's information is restricted solely to authorized employees only when such is reasonably required. Should Zingyland use third parties for its system support, it shall take all measures to safeguard confidentiality.
The user may request to access and receive any data that concern him, as well as their correction if he can provide evidence of errors. Archived data may be disclosed to competent judicial, police and other administration authorities upon their legal request in accordance with the current legislation in force. According to laws on telecommunications confidentiality, the user has the right to receive prior notice and raise objections as provided by articles 11 – 13 L.2472/1997, as in force.
For his own safety, the user should also handle all information provided through our service as confidential and not proceed to any disclosure of such information to third parties.


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How Iron Status Affects Iron Absorption in Infants
Nutrition is complex, especially in the realm of bioavailability. For nutrients with known deficiency disease, such as iron, assessing the effect of an intervention is more complicated than a simple dose-response effect. Iron absorption depends on the type of iron that is provided in the food or supplement (particularly heme vs. non-heme iron), the levels of iron absorption promotors such as vitamin C in the meal, the levels of iron absorption inhibitors such as phytate or tannic acid, and the health and iron status of the individual. This is particularly important because nutritional anemia, caused predominantly by iron deficiency, is a significant worldwide problem and the most common nutritional deficiency (according to the World Health Organisation) that roughly 1.6 billion people suffer from. In particular, women of child-bearing age (especially pregnant women), infants and toddlers are most affected.
Finkelstein and colleagues investigated the role of prenatal iron and iron absorption in a group of 59 breastfed infants aged two and five months. The infants lived in a semi-urban area in Lima, Peru. Infants were divided into two groups based on provision of iron to their mothers during pregnancy: those that received regular supplemental iron during pregnancy, and those that did not. The iron absorbance using 58Fe iron isotopes in the infants was determined at both 2 and 5 months of age, as were a number of important measures of iron status in both the mothers and infants at both time periods.
At the baseline measurement when infants were aged around 2 months, almost two thirds of the women were anemic, as were three quarters of the infants. At this time point, iron deficiency anemia was found in 37% of the mothers and 2 months, and this was reduced to only 21% at 5 months, presumably as these breastfeeding women recovered from the iron demands of pregnancy. No infants had iron deficiency anemia at 2 months, however 25% had developed the condition by the age of 5 months. Infants of mothers that were iron deficient at 2 months were much more likely to be iron deficient at 5 months than the offspring of non-deficient mothers.
There was a slight decrease in the iron concentration in breast milk between measurements taken at 2 and 5 months, although it was not statistically significant. The iron absorption in the infants increased significantly between 2 and 5 months; it is well known that iron uptake increases in people who have low iron stores (see open access review from Finberg). This also appears to be the case in infants.
Although parents are advised that infant iron stores at birth are enough to last through the first 6 months of life, the data from this study show that iron stores were depleted in a quarter of infants by 5 months, in this Peruvian population. A high proportion of postpartum women were also iron depleted. Although low maternal iron status appears to be associated with increased risk of iron deficiency by 5 months of age in infants, presumably due to a better iron status and transfer during pregnancy, increases in supplemental iron did not have an effect. Information about iron supplementation was observational, however, and other factors may have affected infant iron levels.
Vulnerable populations like infants and postpartum women appear to be at risk of iron deficiency in Peru. The prevalence of iron deficiency was much higher in this population compared to in well-nourished populations. Interventions that improve the iron status of people living in developing countries are urgently needed to improve the health of infants and their mothers.
Main citation:
Julia L Finkelstein, Kimberly O O'Brien, Steven A Abrams, and Nelly Zavaleta. Infant iron status affects iron absorption in Peruvian breastfed infants at 2 and 5 mo of age. Am J Clin Nutr 2013 ajcn.056945; First published online October 2, 2013. doi:10.3945/ajcn.112.056945
Supporting citations:
Finberg KE. Unraveling mechanisms regulating systemic iron homeostasis. Hematology Am Soc Hematol Educ Program. 2011;2011:532-7. doi: 10.1182/asheducation-2011.1.532. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22160085
Kraemer K. Nutritional Anemia. 2007. Sight and Life Press, Basel, Switzerland. http://www.sightandlife.org/fileadmin/data/Books/Nutritional_anemia_book.pdf


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How to Import a Laptop From Dubai
Purchasing or importing technical devices like laptops from other countries especially from Dubai is far cheaper than purchasing it from home country's markets. People are more prone towards importing such items from other renowned countries because they have the perception in mind that importing is more satisfactory instead of buying from own country. I have bought a laptop from a Dubai website online and imported it to Pakistan last week. You can place your order of laptop through an online website because it would be more easy and cheaper instead of going yourself and purchasing it specifically. On a website like Laptopdukan.com, you can place the order according to the specifications that best suit your needs and requirements. I did enough research and found laptopdukan.com has offered a good deal at laptop price in Dubai. Then it would be applied custom duty for getting entry into your country that is some percentage of your laptop's price if it exceeds the limit price stated by the custom. This is for the person who wants to purchase it for its individual purpose but if you want to import more laptops to start a business in your own country. The proper paperwork is needed to be shown highlighting your purpose of import along with the documents of your business and company name. as you are bringing from other countries to your home country then you have to pay the shipping cost for it as well. It is bit complex method but once you get used to it then there would be no hurdle in import. The process would be legalized according to the rules and regulations of the state. Buy Dell laptop in UAE at discount from laptopdukan.com


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April 15, 2009
Smartphone use surges among docs
The number of physicians using smartphones in 2009 surged to 64%, according to the results of a study by Manhattan Research.
The study, Taking the Pulse v9.0, focused on physician adoption, use and impact of the Internet and other technologies. The group of physicians who use mobile devices such as iPhones and BlackBerries increased by 20% between 2008 and 2009, according to the study, and the number of physicians using iPhones alone more than doubled in the past year.
Survey results indicate that physicians' increased reliance on smartphones is not cannibalizing internet usage on computers. Data from the study reveals that physicians are spending more time online overall and are using both computers and smartphones to gain access to the most up-to-date online medical and pharma resources at a variety of points throughout the day.
In addition, physicians who use smartphones are an important group to take note of for strategy planning, particularly for brand teams looking to leverage the evolving physician media mix in building relationships with their target audiences, according to the study.
Physicians with smartphones on average are younger than their counterparts, pointing to continued increases in mobile adoption rates in coming years. Also, this group spends more time on the Internet and is overall more multimedia-savvy than non-smartphone users.
Monique Levy, senior director of research at Manhattan Research, said that while physicians have always been advanced in terms of their mobile use, now, the growth in smartphone ownership in the last year has been remarkable. Levy said that mobile is delivering on its promise to allow doctors to be "always on," and accounts for why so many doctors say the internet is essential to their practice.


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Fashionista Blooms
Tropical Sunset
Victorian Romance
Pure Happiness
Beautiful in Blue
Your Sweet Smile by Teleflora
Floral Gardens & Gifts in Palm Beach Gardens, FL� is located at the
entrance of the PGA National Community. We provide delivery to all of Palm Beach Gardens as well as the cities of North Palm Beach, Juno, Lake Park and Jupiter and
including zip codes 33408, 33458, 33412, 33408, 33410, 33477, 33403, 33418. Daily
delivery is also available to Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center, Jupiter Medical Center, Columbia
Hospital and St. Mary's Hospital. We also serve the following Funeral Homes:
Taylor/Modeen, Aycock, Howard/Price.
Floral Gardens & Gifts in Palm Beach Gardens, FL specializes in the
following flowers and gift arrangements: -Large inventory of fresh flowers
including tropicals -High-style contemporary and traditional arrangements
-Plants/Dish Gardens/Fruit and Gourmet Baskets -Experienced Wedding/Party
Planner -Custom Silk arrangements -Extensive gift line including: Ganz Webkinz,
Yankee Candle, Papyrus Cards and stationary, Caspari paper goods and Romero
Britto Giftware.


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FUMC Plano Care Ministries
Here at FUMC Plano we strive to meet all the needs of our congregation during all seasons of life. Below you will find access to the various services we offer.
If you have any questions concerning caring ministries, contact the Rev. Ed Volfe.
Wellspring Counseling Center
Affordable, supportive and hope-filled counseling by Christian mental health professionals for children, youth, adults, seniors, families, couples/ partners, and caregivers.
Call (972) 423-4506 ext 155. Please leave a message and the intake counselor will return your call as promptly as possible.
More information can be found on the counseling center's website.
Care Ministry
Trained volunteers support the pastoral care of FirstChurch with phone calls and visits to homebound members and to those who have been hospitalized or lost a loved one, taking communion to the homebound, participating in our prayer ministry, providing receptions after funerals, and providing transportation for those in need. Volunteers need to have a background check and complete MinistrySafe for many of these ministries.


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Many people use the terms grocery and convenience stores interchangeably because the two businesses seem similar. They sell a lot of the same products, offer common services, and locations are plentiful in almost every city and town. While the line between the two store types is getting fuzzier as grocery stores offer more services and convenience stores grow their product offerings, there are still some key difference between the two.
Product Offerings
Most grocery stores offer a wide variety of food products, including perishable items like meat, produce and dairy, along with general merchandise items like cleaning supplies, paper products, and health/beauty care products. Convenience stores' inventory is typically limited to high-convenience items and food basics that people commonly use and need quickly, such as toilet paper, soft drinks, and microwavable and prepared foods. Grocery stores also sell many different name-brand products whereas convenience stores carry only a few brands.
The biggest difference in services between a grocery and convenience store is that the latter usually sells gasoline. About 80 percent of convenience stores sell gasoline and these stores accounted for approximately 80 percent of gasoline sales in the United States annually according to "NACS" magazine in February 2011. Convenience stores also offer money order and wire services, however many grocery stores are now providing these services, along with dry cleaning/laundry, photo processing, banking, floral, and pharmaceutical services. Convenience stores aren't far behind, though. Some are expanding to offer these services as well.
Store Size
Grocery stores tend to be larger in size than convenience stores with an average size of 46,000 square feet. The average convenience store is 4,700 square feet -- 2,800 square fee of sales area and 1,900 square feet of nonsales area reported "NACS" in May 2009
Ownership and Operation
Many convenience stores are independently owned and are often part of a franchise of convenience store chains, while the majority of grocery stores are part of a chain that is run by a national or regional corporation. These stores also differ in their hours of operation. Convenience stores offer longer business hours and are open on most holidays, whereas grocery stores have shorter hours and are closed during some holidays.
References (5)
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Career Guide to Industries, 2010-11 Edition -- Grocery Stores
- "NACS"; Fueling America: A Snapshot of Key Facts and Figures; February 2011
- Food Marketing Institute: Glossary of Supermarket Terms
- Food Marketing Institute: Supermarket Facts -- Industry Overview 2010
- "NACS"; Convenience Stores Offer More Convenience; May 2009
Photo Credits
- George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images


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What you'll find us reading this summer
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by the latest handbags and heels — we've got your latest wardrobe addition, whatever the occasion.


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Article by James Blatt
Mobile is now getting used by almost everyone. It is hard to believe but almost all the handsets supports the net connection. This is the major reason why the marketing is taking a new bend with the name of the – Mobile marketing solutions! It really works well.With the bliss of the popular search engines, you can now get the client who even doesn


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See New Photos of Hannah and Adam Together on the Next Season of Girls
Looks like the lovebirds are working things out.
Girls' fourth season has started filming, and even though Hannah is heading to the Iowa Writers' Workshop eventually, these on-set photos suggest she and Adam will be spending at least some time together in New York. Ah, young love. When we last saw Adam and Hannah, they had had a pretty serious fight: He was mad she'd told him about her graduate school plans just moments before his Broadway acting debut, and she was mad that he didn't understand why she'd want to share important news with him. Perhaps they work things out? Or maybe this lovey-dovey stuff is just the eerie calm before the really brutal breakup storm? Either way!


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Ralph Uwazuruike, founder of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, has described the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu and Igbo people as "backbiter and blackmailers."
Uwazuruike made the remark while reiterating his earlier claim that Kanu took over Radio Biafra from him in London.
Speaking with Punch, the pro-Biafra agitator stressed that people of the South East are good at "double-crossing" their own.
He said, "I formed MASSOB. As a matter of fact, I am the originator of the new Biafran struggle. I originated it in 1999 and no other group spoke of Biafra before 1999. I also said it that we would allow the formation of other groups. I studied Political Science and Law and I have read many issues on struggles and revolutions and concluded that there was no way one body (a group) could achieve Biafra without other factions.
"I went to London and floated Radio Biafra there. I needed somebody to operate it and I appointed Nnamdi Kanu as the director but he felt that the best thing he could do was to blackmail me with the radio.
"Yes, with my own radio station! It is not new because that is the nature of an Igbo man. It is for the Igbo man to backbite, to double-cross his brother; and that is why we are behind the Nigerian scheme. As long as the Igbo man continues with that mentality, the Igbo race is doomed. Look at what is happening in the political parties."
Welcome to Street Journal Forum, Our motto is "We Disagree To Agree", you can have an open discussion here on anything, you can respond to Topics freely. Upload pictures you want to share and please invite your friends!
Biafra: Nnamdi Kanu, Igbo people are blackmailers, backbiters – Uwazuruike
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Perambahan hutan lindung di Kabupaten Aceh Besar dan upaya penanggulangannya1 edition - first published in 2000
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As we arrived at Playa Escondida (on Santa Cruz Island) we first landed on a outcropping of rocks where there were a number of animals.
There were a number of blue footed boobies, marine iguanas and sally lightfoot crabs. The adult blue footed booby has to be one of my favorites, because of its blue feet (of course) and its empty-looking eyes.
One of the amazing things about the Galapagos is that the animals are generally unafraid of humans. I was able to walk within about 5 meters of this blue footed booby. He didn't even budge, even when we left in the boat.


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Shortly before the Las Vegas Bowl last December, Brent Pease heard a familiar voice booming across the room.
Pease was preparing for his final game at offensive coordinator at Boise State University when NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon spotted him and called out his name.
Shortly before the Las Vegas Bowl last December, Brent Pease heard a familiar voice booming across the room.
Pease was preparing for his final game as offensive coordinator at Boise State University when NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon spotted him and called out his name.
"I hadn't seen him much the last couple of years, but when we talked, it was like old times," Pease said. "I immediately felt comfortable."
Pease, UF's new offensive coordinator, was a backup quarterback for three seasons behind Moon from 1987-89 with the Houston Oilers. During that time, the two forged a friendship that has lasted for more than 20 years.
"He was a guy that kind of took me under his wing a little bit, a very good teammate," Pease said. "A lot of people who play the same position can say that, but we were probably a little closer. He gave me an opportunity to learn from him and get better."
Moon remembered Pease as being shy at first.
"Because of Brent's personality, he was so laid back and quiet, I didn't initially see him as going into coaching," Moon said. "He was a guy who was smart, always prepared well and was always ready whenever he went on the field. But as for the coaching side of it, I didn't see that right away."
But Moon said Pease's quiet nature included a dry wit.
"He was a funny guy," Moon said. "He was laid back and quiet, but he was funny at the same time. He had a dry wit to him and guys were really attracted to that part of his personality."
Pease had an explanation for why he was so quiet.
"I was intimidated because I knew everyone was so much better," Pease said. "You are a rookie guy, you don't know how to run things, I was trying to get comfortable."
Pease's NFL career got off to a notorious start. He crossed the picket lines during the 1987 NFL strike and started three games during his rookie season with the Oilers, winning all three. When the NFL regulars returned, Pease remained on the roster as a backup quarterback. Moon said it was hard for the strike-breakers on the team to gain acceptance at first, but said Pease handled the situation well.
"He was a guy who didn't let a lot of things bother him," Moon said. "It took a while for all of those guys to earn the respect of their teammates, and Brent did a good job not overreacting to anything that happened to him and just went about his business
"It says a lot about his character, even though he was in a situation where it wasn't ideal. He was taking advantage of a situation to get to the league and I don't fault him for that. I probably would have done the same thing. They were 3-1 and they put us in position to make the playoffs. Brent continued to do what he was asked to do and was ready when it was his turn to play."
Pease said he viewed the 1987 season as an opportunity to gain experience.
"Once those guys came back, I knew where my place was," Pease said. "I think the next year, I was able to earn my seat back again, it set up a situation where I was able to earn some more respect."
In 1988, Pease came off the bench when both Moon and backup quarterback Cody Carlson were injured to lead Houston to a 7-6 win over the Kansas City Chiefs. Pease threw three interceptions, but scored Houston's go-ahead touchdown on a four-yard run late in the third quarter.
"You earn respect when you do things like that, that are not expected," Moon said. "He was a scrappy guy. He wasn't a spectacular thrower. He wasn't going to wow you with his arm, but he was smart and could anticipate and deliver the ball where it needed to go."
That anticipation has carried over into Pease's coaching career, which began in 1991 at his alma mater, Montana. Moon said he's followed Pease's coaching moves every step of the way.
"He told me (at the Las Vegas Bowl) he had a few opportunities and that there was the possibility he may move on," Moon said. "He'll do a great job at Florida. He incorporated some elements of the run-and-shoot at Boise State and he'll bring some of those elements at Florida."
The run-and-shoot was the prolific, four-wide receiver, no tight-end offense that Moon and Pease both ran with the Oilers in the late 1980s. Pease said the run-and-shoot has influenced his playbook during his coaching career.
"I think the main element of the run-and-shoot are the pass concepts, some of the routes with receivers and how to attack coverages," Pease said. "As for the quarterback having no pass protections, four wideouts, I don't think you will see that, but there are some pass concepts incorporated within the offense."


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Adolescent Development Graduate Certificate
The Department of Human Development and Family Studies at the University of New Hampshire offers a one-year, 14 to 15-credit, multidisciplinary program of study leading to a graduate certificate in adolescent development. The certificate program is intended for individuals who are working in the field but who lack specific knowledge about adolescent development, such as professionals employed by social-service agencies, juvenile justice facilities and child welfare programs, educational institutions, and independent programs that provide programming and services to adolescents. A certificate in Adolescent Development is ideal for professionals in a variety of youth related fields. Areas include youth-serving organizations like 4-H; Boys and Girls Club; non-profit organizations; faith-based groups; community recereation facilities; correctional professions; elementary, middle and high school educators; and extension educators.
The certificate program builds general competence in understanding and applying theory and research regarding adolescent development, with particular emphasis on the influences of families and communities. The program is grounded in an ecological approach that focuses on supporting the health and well-being of all adolescents, with special attention to using a developmental perspective to develop programs, policies, and other interventions that address contemporary risk and protective factors.
|Completion of the 2-course core curriculum:
|HDFS 950: Contemporary Issues in Adolescent Development
HDFS 995: Seminar and Special Problems - Human Development
|Two elective courses, one of which must be a Human Development and Family Studies course:
HDFS Electives (choose at least one)
HDFS 846: Human Sexuality
Multidisciplinary Electives
EDUC 810C: Youth Organizations
Other Human Development and Family Studies or multidisciplinary electives may be selected with advisor approval.
Program Advantages
The certificate program in adolescent development is:
Timely – The certificate program may be completed in one year.
Affordable – The certificate program costs far less than a two-year master's program, providing an efficient, affordable avenue for students to acquire expertise in adolescent development.
Flexible - Many of the suggested courses are offered once per week in a three-hour block, and/or are offered in the late afternoon or evening, and one of the two core courses is an independent study that gives working students flexibility in scheduling.
Transferrable - Up to 12 credits may be applied to the Human Development and Family Studies master of science program in Adolescent Development or Child Development.
Contact Information
For more information, contact Corinna Jenkins Tucker, HDFS Graduate Program Coordinator,
at 603-862-2146 or via e-mail at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Blue patent snake print purse in genuine leather. With zipper closure. Pocket inside. Made in Portugal.
Width: 17 cm. Height: 11 cm. 100% Leather Use impregnation spray
• SHIPPING METHOD Sweden: DHL, International: UPS • DELIVERY TIME Sweden: 1-3 working days, International: 3-4 working days.• FREE SHIPPING: On all orders!
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Returns within 14 days of receiving the item(s)
Find out more about our return service.


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What are Common Core Standards?
What are STEM classes and how do they relate to Common Core?
What role do the arts play in today's classroom?
- Increasing the overall quality of the student
- Boosting the student's aptitude for problem solving, which supports the STEM curriculum
- Improving critical thinking skills
What do you need to know about effective learning?
- Reading new information
- Writing notes regarding what's discussed
- Seeing the information, such as on a board or computer screen, or in a book
- Hearing the information recited by a teacher or instructor
Studies show the most successful students understand how they best learn new information. With the help of teachers and parents, students can find the tools that make learning most effective and enjoyable.
How can you help with your child's learning?
- Encourage problem solving and critical thinking at home through games, mind teasers, and exercises.
- Support activities such as art, dance, theater, and other endeavors that encourage creativity.
- Demonstrate the importance of ongoing education yourself by reading, researching, and pursuing other educational endeavors. Children learn best by example.
- Don't forget to exercise! A recent Swedish study showed that an increase in physical activity led to an improvement in school performance.
What are some STEM programs and activities?
There are many exciting STEM initiatives right now:
- Virtual Environment Interactions (VEnvl): Students control the movement of virtual characters in a video-like setting, blending choreography and computational skills in a learning environment. Check out this study for more information.
- The Children's Museum of Houston has developed an afterschool program named A'STEAM that provides students with activity kits designed to build Common Core skills. The program has expanded to operate in 16 sites throughout the greater Houston area. You can read more about the program here.
- The Girl Scouts of America conducts the Girls in STEM program, and are helping to promote the STEM curriculum through various badges and activities.
Live Healthy. Live Smart.


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Contact the official recruiter for teaching jobs with the Abu Dhabi Education Council
Footprints Recruiting, Inc.
Vancouver Head Office
The Footprints Recruiting head office is located in the heart of historic Gastown. We love working in this great part of the city and have a great variety of good food and good coffee nearby. Housed in a historic red brick building, we enjoy the lively neighbourhood, the colourful characters of the Eastside and a great view across the water towards the mountains on the North Shore.
500-55 Water Street
Vancouver, BC
Phone: 604-677-6556
Fax: 604-677-6554
Main site: footprintsrecruiting.com


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In this Issue:
The Heroes Issue: Heroes of Conservation, My Hero (essays on mentors, heroes, and legends), Hero Shots (great shots, trick casts, master-level skills), The Stuff of Legends (gear used by hunting legends), Best Big-Game Guides. Columns: The Toughest Bird Hunt, The Early Deer Ambush, Predator Rifles, Fall Trout. Sections: Deke a Bachelor Buck, Fool Resident Ducks, Streamers for Fall Trout, Rutting Elk, Call in a Muley, Fall Crappies, Food, Bow Handbook, Whitetail Handbook, Waterfowl Handbook. Gear: Hunting Packs, Buyer's Guide to Sub-Half-Minute Bolts. Take a look for yourself.
Get every issue of Field & Stream Magazine and unlimited access to over 140 top magazines in one app, including back issues. Try Free at NextIssue.com
About Field & Stream Magazine:
The Field & Stream Magazine is "The World's Leading Outdoor Magazine." Completely devoted to the outdoor life and lifestyle, it provides priceless knowledge and inspiration regarding outdoor sports. Egging you on to pursue the sport you love, it celebrates the thrilling life with great stories, remarkable photography, and sound advice while paying homage to the traditions of hunters and fishermen that have passed down for generations.


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1. Re: Disable 3 & 4 finger resetkerrishotts Jun 14, 2016 5:44 AM (in response to josephw97627228)
Why do you want to disable these gestures? They are incredibly useful for development purposes. PG Developer is not intended for production deployment.
I'm not sure why changing the desktop version would make a difference though. You've made no other changes to your app's configuration?
Also you might double check to see if your developer app hasn't updated automatically -- I'm not sure what platform you're running on, but on my iOS devices, I have the apps configured to auto-update. Unfortunately, I don't see a great way to figure out the installed version of PG Developer. :-(
2. Re: Disable 3 & 4 finger resetjosephw97627228 Jun 14, 2016 7:12 PM (in response to kerrishotts)
Hi, thanks for the response.
I totally disagree about their usefulness, as PG Developer resets when you change a file. It seems like a no-brainer to me that having superfluous touch events could produce unintended behavior, as it did in my case: I went through a period of time (through multiple updates to PG Developer and PG Desktop) during which either a) My app, or b) PG Developer, itself, would crash. This was always instigated by touch, and my previously mentioned strategy for solving the problem worked beautifully until now.
Honestly, when developing for mobile devices on which every interaction depends on smooth handling of touch events, particularly considering that Phonegap is obviously less performant than native apps, it's perplexing to me that Phonegap would think it's a good idea to add unnecessary overhead to touch gestures. Weird.
Yes, it's entirely possible that PG Developer auto-updated, causing the change I'm seeing.
Thanks for the help!


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BMW of Freehold
A Distinctive BMW Dealer in NJ When it comes to finding a BMW, NJ has plenty of dealerships to choose from. At BMW of Freehold, we understand that you have a choice when it comes to selecting a dealership. We go above and beyond to earn your business each time you visit. In short, you're going to enjoy your experience here. Our state-of-the-art facility boasts a huge showroom where you canbrowse new BMW models and Certified Pre-Owned BMW models, as well as other pre-owned vehicles. This is where our sales and financing team work seamlessly to get you into the vehicle of your dreams. Located adjacent to the showroom is the modern BMW Service Center, which provides authorized BMW maintenance and a wide selection of BMW auto parts. We believe all of these things can come together perfectly with the right approach—and that's where our team of skilled, personable specialists come in. From knowledgeable sales people to factory-trained technicians, our team works together to ensure you get the solution that fits your needs and your lifestyle. BMW of Freehold is conveniently located on Highway 9 in Freehold, New Jersey. We welcome you to visit our dealership or take a virtual tour of it online.
4225 US Highway 9
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This is the 27th week of our pregnancy with Baby Agen. Apparently, he is the size of a head of cauliflower, which means he is about 2 pounds and around 14.5 – 15 inches long with his legs extended.
Given that the last few sonograms had him measuring two weeks bigger than average, I think this kid is way bigger. I can no longer see my feet! We still have about 89 days in the #CountdownToBabyAgen


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Who We Are
In 1879 Grandma Cora Johnson devised a delicious barbeque for the first Juneteenth celebration held in Arlington, Texas. Her recipe became a family tradition and a well guarded secret. Today, her grandson, Mario Johnson, uses the same original spices to create his masterpiece barbeque for patrons of Grandma's House.
Our Reviews
They provide the "perfect" combination of value and panache. I see myself working with Grandma's House for a long long time to come!


text: The latest macro photography series from Roman De Giuli/Terracollage deals with organic visuals created with fluids, inks and household ingredients. The 2017 edition shows a broad variety of forms and sculptures which are captured with a 50 MB stills camera and a macro lens. The composition of fluids take place on glass panes and petri dishes and have the approx size of a coin. The purpose of this work is to show the many artforms of nature and its ability to organize itself in countless formations and patterns.


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Latest Posts
SWOS 2020 preview - Win32 port31st July 2018 05:58
The times of emulation and dosbox are soon going to be over! zkz productions is working on a full Win32 port which will make SWOS finally available on modern Windows machines. Watch out for #swos2020 !
read more
SWOS WORLD FUNCUPS23rd May 2018 17:16
Quick guide:
Organized by BOCo23 & Gatifun
assura enters ASL glory1st April 2018 01:53
As only the 9th player ever, Polish SWOS master assura wins the top flight title of SWOS' online competition unbeaten (!!), the AMIGA Super League! And that, in a total of 12 years since ASL was founded.
Congratulations on this awesome performance!! Welcome to the club, assura!!
List of players to win the title unbeaten (name links to season):
– Redhair
– Playaveli
– Coolio
– Bobbiebobras
– Bobrix
– Blazej
– lemonheadiv
– andib
– assura
Russia Journal - Final Post!!!7th January 2018 16:41
by Gatifun & bill_bill
See all jounal's post at Sensiblesoccer.de
bill_bill interviews Gatifun
WC2018 Journal's Editor in Chief Mr. Gatifun arrested, on embezzlement charges!
Dear SWOS Journal readers, it is with great regreat we anounce the compulsive WC2018 Journal shutdown. Journal's Bank acounts were mysteriously emptied & bankruptcy became inevitable. We were although able to print one last edition with the interview to former Editor in Chief Mr. Gatifun, in an attempt to bring you the inside story of events…
1) Mr Gatifun, word on the street is once WC2018 ended you decided to bring the 20 geisha masseuses to Spain… against the Japanese Emperor's will. "La Voz de Galicia" newspaper recent investigation sugests you've housed your ladies in a luxury condominium in Sanxenxo, by the Atlantic ocean, but recently fell behind on your bills. Did you took Journal's money to feed this poor women?
Arrrgh, ;( I spent all my money on geishas pleasure, they told me they fell in love at me! Now geishas have disappeared, and I miss them! they even stole my tamagochi! aaaargh
2) Looks like you're facing a number of problems at the moment. Besides the embezzlement charges, Japanese emperor sent a ninja squad after you. Will you manage some "SWOS lob in the wind" type of move to get out of this situation?
Well, I hope that ninja squad will be the same at on the picture! I fall easily in love nowadays! Anyway, Japanese emperor is too angry, I can't walk on streets, tsubasa is too known and I made and aesthetical operation on my face to be like him!
Since you'll likely be in prison for a long time, I can attend to those geisha in the meanwhile… only as a token of my apretiation for you, of course. Anyway, you should know the SWOS community isn't judgemental and will receive you with open arms, once you serve your sentence. May SWOS gods be with you!
Thanks, I guessed you can take care of my geishas, but, as they have disappeared, I will send you my 4 dogs and my 8 cats, thank you very much for taking care of them!
Gatifun interviews bill_bill
1) Good morning Mr Bill_bill, recently you have taken over of Russia Journal interviews and developing a very nice work, making people enjoy and wait for your next posts. You even got a jounalism award! Well done mate. Have you planned to leave your current job and become journalism your main activity?
There are 2 complementary views on that. First, yes I should recognize my talents aren't in playing SWOS, so a full time job in Journalism would likely be the right choice. On the other hand, I can only fool the SWOS community as a serviceable reporter because they understand even less about journalism than me! Now, considering close-fisted godfather Playaveli isn't letting go of some coins to pay this poor fraudulent reporter, I actually got to find a 3rd option… does "Betting Tips Inc." sound good for a company name? I've noticed SWOS bettors need a hand in this department…
2) Everybody enjoyed your interviews, but, I can see not all was happyness after them: Playaveli lost his job as Arabia Saudi's trainer, Bomb decided to change to other sport, Nestoroide got in jail, Gatifun lost his job & his geishas crew, yourself was sacked as portugal's traineer, and hundreds of more victims after your interviews. Do you consider yourself guilty or innocent?
I was only a puppet in Sepp Blatter's hands… you've heard of him, right? He payed me substantially to ruin WC2018 as much as I could, hoping he can retake FIFA's presidency when he is 101 years old! So don't think, even for a moment, that DjowGer, Bomb & Nestoroide are any good! They only got to the podium because Sepp Blatter wanted to! All other tragic events that took place in the WC2018 were also of his doing.
3) Fans are eager to know: How is your relationship with your partner Gatifun? many people told really bad things about him: demanding, lazy, and specially very bad swos player. Can you tell us some goships to tell tomorrow at office?
Gatifun is a terrible boss! His idea of giving me a compliment for my reporting work goes in the lines of hosting me in the "Big Dick's Halfway Inn" during the WC2018! Can you believe it? Without minibar in the room, besides!!
On the "demanding" aspect, he really isn't because he doesn't have the time for it. Have you noticed he is always playing SWOS, organizing Fun Cups and so on?? The man dreams about SWOS day & night! He hasn't time for anything else (geishas included)!!
Truth is he saw too much Tsubasa cartoons since early age & been dreaming about flying kicks, acrobatics and such, ever since. So you see, his Managing position in Japan National Team was his dream job… once he lost that job, he also lost it up there. Lost his joy & never been the same ever since…
4) Well mate, hehe, to finish journal russian, I can't avoid to tell you thanks and thanks, in the name of swos community we appreciate very much and we have incredible enjoyed your apports. Thanks!
bill_bill at work, hard one nowadays!
Well, thank you! My goal was to arouse some insults from the interviewed WC2018 Managers, but they were all too polite… Couldn't get under their skin well enough, unfortunately.
WC2018 Journal is out! Thanks to all the collaborators and readers! Peace!
Russia Journal 7th - Bomb's Australia loses WC2018 final on the back of some costly mistakes7th January 2018 10:41
by Gatifun & bill_bill
See all jounal's post at Sensiblesoccer.de
January 7th
1) Mr Bomb, dispite the defeat in the final, Australia stunned the world with its performance! SWOS world managers are doing a written petition asking for your return to ASL league. Will you oblige?
Click play first and then double click to see fullscreen
Hi Bill, thank you very much for these nice words. I am happy to hear this! Congratz to Peru again! Unfortunately this month I will have a new internet provider and I am not sure how these fuckers will perform (regarding the ping) … next month I am not able to play. Maybe I can restart in March.
2) Australia pilled on mistakes in the match's 2nd half. Among those, a leg breaking penalty & uninspired attacking plays… or was this loss actually another one of those water tampring cases? Btw, did your gk lost his contact lens, on the 2nd goal?
Yeah, bitter this! My goalkeeper does not have anything to do with any goal… I think my defense was fallen into a deep – partly deserved! – sleep after the last 2 K.O. rounds with extra time and the deciding goal in the 119. minute (in bothe games) which caused such a big euphorie that my players couldn't resist to spent their free time in the best clubs in the city. I guess they did not sleep a minute between quarter final and final. But guess what?! The chicks in the clubs were hot as hell!!!
3) The saying goes "no glory for 2nd placers" but in some sports, coming in 2nd place is actually quite nice… do you regret chosing football over say… cycling?
I do not regret anything! Checks … uhm ehm, I mean Chicks were nice man! It is ok for our nation that we are second, no one would be cheering more if we have been first because – I mentioned it in one of the other interviews – Football is not the most important sport. Uhm, my manager just told me I have to leave now. Sorry! Bye! Cya next time!
read more
Russia Journal 3rd - Nestoroide's Peru locked in mental hospital after being crowned World Champion! - Videos and pictures added….3rd January 2018 14:25
by Gatifun & bill_bill
See all jounal's post at Sensiblesoccer.de
Russia Journal 3rd – Nestoroide's Peru locked in mental hospital after being crowned World Champion!
– Videos and pictures added….
1) Manager, Peruvians are ecstatic! Peruvian Shamans even say this is the beginning of the rebirth of the Inca empire! You think the Peruvian President will save you a seat in the future Inca world board of administration?
As i said before, i'm not interested in soccer anymore, but i will not accept that seat, cause i will be in a few years the future world dictator. muahahaha! (evil laugh).
2) On the other hand, FIFA said it may take away Peru's title because you disregard the sanctions on Paulo Guerrero by keeping him on the field. Besides FIFA punished you 6 months due to your middle finger stunt. How are you expecting things to unfold?
I don't mind what FIFA say, we just played for fun, we enjoyed all the games… and want the specs enjoy, the ref enjoy and the rivals too!. Thats the reason why, before all games, we offer some relaxing substances to our rivals. Fun for all!
Click play first and then double click to see fullscreen
3) On the match, critics say you surprised the world by playing, mainly, great defensive football. Was waiting on Australia's mistakes also part of the plan?
Hahaha!, plan? I just planned the after game party!
4) Recent news sugest Saudy Arabia's King feels the 1 Billion US$ winning bonus offered to Mr. Playaveli wasn't enough motivation & he is now prepared to offer you 10x that amont to have you as Manager in the next World Cup. Are you up for that task?
Im not for that, no alcohol in Saudy Arabia, THERE IS NO MONEY ENOUGHT FOR THAT!
Russia Journal 24th - First edition - Ridiculous Japan with happy manager Gatifun, How the hell?24th December 2017 02:13
by Gatifun & bill_bill
See all jounal's post at Sensiblesoccer.de
Russia Journal 24th – First edition –
Gatifun seems happy but he got 7 cucumbers on his net!!!
1) Manager Gatifun, harakiri is rounding your body, general strike on your country, big bet dealers are threating you. Why that stupid and idiot smile on your face?
Well, did you read 21th edition of this jounal?
I'm so so happy, never enjoyed as I did with my crew…
2) And what about your match? Really Djowger's Costa Rica played so good to score 7 times?
After last flight, I took some wrong steps: I sent players to another stadium for example. Fortunately, they could get the correct place by running due to the traffic jam. Don't get that angry at me, everyone could have a mistake, couldn't they? They are young men, doesn't matter…
3) Tsubasa has been very upset. He really hoped you team was going to make it. Costa rica didn't seem a very strong rival. Do you feel a complete failure by yourself?
No no no, I didn't failure at all. Stats show Japan played very well, see them, I shooted 31 times, and Djowger only 1 far shoot. No once can understand how he scored 7 goals.
Mister, these aren't stats, you are reading and old calendar, mate!
Ah, then, hmmmm, well, how could I tell it, better I run away!!!
read more
Russia Journal 22th – Last edition - Machu Picchu Spanish Nestoroide party & Galataplace's Brazil returning home after a very good WC23rd December 2017 00:17
by Gatifun & bill_bill
See all jounal's post at Sensiblesoccer.de
December 22th – Last edition
Nestoroide only try to get fun, but he keeps scoring hard…
1) Manager Nestoroide, another 2 high scoring matchs. What's the secret to keep scoring so many goals?
Well, Paulo shoots and the ball goes to the net, sometimes he does with the head and the ball goes to the net too. In fact i dont know anything about football, i said "yes" to be the manager cause i thought soccer was about to surfing in the caribbean. I started to suspect i was wrong when someone sayd that world cup was in Russia, but thought Russia have some land in the caribbean too.
2) Some managers raised concerns that Peruvian Shamans have been using hallucinogenic drugs to recover your players from fatigue, at a very faster rate than normal! Will you admit to this fact?
No, we didnt used hallucinogenic drugs for recover, we used it just for fun. Cause football its just a game, were here to enjoy the experience.
3) Peruvian president said he is already making arrangements for a WC20018 title celebration party, to be held in Machu Picchu, in a cerimony were Mother Earth will be praised for transmitting infinite energy to your players during matches! He also said you will be covered in Inca gold, as a token for your work! You really trick them, didn't you?
I didnt do it for the money!, im doing it just for fun, and a little for the drugs…, by the way, why do you ask so much?, im here just to buy stuff again, how many for the pills? You make family discounts?…
Last 16 KO round: Galatapalace's Brazil stopped by xflea's Sweden
1) Manager Galatapalace, Brazil goes home with more conceded goals than scored. You had luxury trio Neymar, Gabriel Jesus & William & the good old Brasilian coffee to keep them awake. What else did you need?
Unfortunately we lost and we put towels in the couch. I guess this is my fault not the players's. I wondered about brazilian dance before the match and wanted to learn samba. Somehow, We forgot to practice. There is a Turkish proverb which explains the situation: "If the imam (the religous leader) farts, the congregation will make shit" which means "If a leader makes a small mistake, his followers will then make big mistakes" I think this is the case: "what we do is shit".
2) Tiririca, a Brazilian Clown, used slogans including "What does a federal congressman do? I really don't know – but if you vote for me, I'll tell ya" and "It can't get any worse, vote Tiririca". He became the second-most-voted congressman in Brazil's history.
If Brazilians got fooled by such bullshiter, I'm sure it won't be hard for you to justify the WC elimination with some Samba music act with a Pele poster in the background. Are you up for it, to save your job?
There is no need for Tririca. I'm quitting work already. But Brazilians should think about it " at least as a manager i didn't conceded 7 goals" like Felipe Scolari did. Plus, i don't think he is my rival at dancing samba anymore.. I beleive, from now on, I am here at Brazil going on by dancing instead of coaching. Dance is better..
3) I'm sorry but I believe you will get fired, no matter how much Samba you dance. And sadly, due to high import taxes, a PS4 in Brazil costs roughly $1850. So it's likely you won't ever play Brazil again… not even in the PS4. Could life be any harder, at the moment?
I used to have PS4 which was taken from me by some of Brazilian fans after got a bashing from. At this point, The Brazilian Federation could give me some compensation but they even didn't recognize me on face ( little bloody). They behaved me as if they had forgotten even my name. I don't understand why that much of anger against me really.. Anyway, i called Felipe Scolari who is one of my best friend and asked him if he had LMA Manager's floopy disks for Amiga. I have Amiga and he has floopy disks. That is all…
Russia Journal - 22th - Portugal sacks manager bill_bill22nd December 2017 14:49
by Gatifun & bill_bill
See all jounal's post at Sensiblesoccer.de
Portugal sacks manager bill_bill, in the wake of World Cup elimination vs Nesteroide's Peru
Taking effective immediately, Portuguese Football Federation (PFF) relieved bill_bill from team management, following the quarter-final loss against Peru.
To our microphones PFF President commented on the decision:
"European Champions in title shouldn't get eliminated by some casual mountain potato growers, nor are we in tune with Mr. bill_bill's circus style communication. Clearly it was time for a change."
About the match PFF President has this to say:
"About 20 min into the game Peru had already put our key players Ronaldo & William Carvalho blinking like a christmas tree & our sissy subs then decided to came in with medieval armours for protection. Needless to say that once they fell, they weren't able to stand up ever again, so we played with minus 2 players in our lineup the rest of the way!"
We later managed to reach contact with Mr. bill_bill, who was clear in his message:
"Chubby PFF President should hit the gym!".
Invited to adress his professional future, Mr. bill had this to say:
"No kingdom of Arabia salaries here, so another job is in order. Going to open a kids football academy back home… you know how the saying goes: those who can, do; those who can't, teach!"
Russia Journal 21th - Japanese gheisa crew (photo added) - Kim Jong Un 's dreams...21st December 2017 21:29
by Gatifun & bill_bill
See all jounal's post at Sensiblesoccer.de
December 21th
gatifun's Japan secures win vs enbino's powerhouse England and advances to the quarterfinals stage
1) As the match where managers skill level was theoretically closer, when compared with the remaining 7 matches, SWOS analysts forecast this to be a close one? How was the match, Mr. gatifun?
Yeah, Enbino's England made a very good first half, really I was lucky. But on second half, I depeloped all my samurai soul and could make it.
Besides, we played on a hill, and I was in the higher side…
2) 52 year old Tsubasa Oozora spoke yesterday after the match, saying Japan is playing like never before! How good is to receive praising by Japan's football hero?
Oh yes, we have trained how to show shine eyes and got a good hair cut with Tsubasa style, I think It has been the most difficult part of our trainment, but good results are coming!
3) After this magnific win you are by now adored and respected by Japanese fans back home and harakiri (Japanese ritual suicide) is now off the table! However, your bowing has increased exponentially, as you keep saluting tourist Japanese fans here in Russia, and reports say you're having tremendous back pain. Deeply concerned by this, Japanese emperor decided earlier today to fly over a crew of 20 geisha masseuses to take care of your "health". Japan's quartefinals opponents managers djowGer and armandojimenez received this news with a smile on their faces, commenting your focus will never be the same as you'll be attending these "women in need". What response do you have for Managers djowGer and armandojimenez? Is Japan's performance really in risk, from here on out?
I tell Armando and Djowger than help if not necessary, Japan's manager always will take care of these poor and sad 20 geisha crew and make them happy. I will show them my personal tamagochi in order they can enjoy it as much as they wish!!! To be focused on next match is other story…
May Tsubasa's spirit guide you to the finals, manager!
Armandojimenez's South Korea to face djowGer's Costa Rica, after coming in front of Germany & Mexico in Group 6
1) Recent Journal WC2018 research sugests you will now be facing a very solid defense and prolific attack. On top of it, this is the match where teams are more equivalent, when compared with all other last 16 stage matches. All in all, you'll be facing a big challenge. Prognostics?
My prediction is that korea is different. We are good in penalty
2) Kim Jong-un is having unconfortable sleeping nights, as South Korea progresses in the World Cup. Are u looking to win the war preemptively by delivering him a long distance heart attack?
Kim Jong-un promises to make players with more talent than Messi. http://www.craveonline.com/culture/1164247-kim-jong-un-promises-produce-north-korean-footballers-talented-messi
3) In Valentine's Day, Korean women show boyfriends their love by giving them presents. Not the other way around. How did Koreans convinced their women this was the "proper way to be"? Are they more intelligent than the rest of us?
Woman in korea are now robots, like replicants, buy the model of samsung RX, not only give you a present..
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Sleep# v3
Sleep# receives several downloads a day (over a hundred a month) from all over the world and I have had plenty of positive feedback – there are obviously lots of people who like watching videos/films before falling asleep!
Whether you use it as a "sleep after" VLC/Windows Media Player or for fading out music after a countdown or as simply a countdown timer, it has been a success far beyond the niche I anticipated.
Since the last version was released, the BBC have changed the way iPlayer works, and now it no longer comes out of fullscreen Flash after playback has finished. This has required the development of a new (universal) Flash detection method…
I have released a beta version of Sleep# v3 with experimental Adobe Flash detection – allowing you to send your computer to sleep/hibernate/screen off after watching a fullscreen Flash video, e.g. YouTube, BBC iPlayer and countless other streaming catch-up TV services.
There is also a log/history dialog allowing you to review Sleep#'s previous actions.
As the (end of fullscreen) Flash detection is experimental I would welcome any feedback. Try watching a video (10 mins+) on YouTube (using Flash, not HTML5 video), make it fullscreen and leave it playing idly for at least 5 minutes. At the end of the video, Sleep# should trigger the grace period – fading the screen to black by default before triggering the sleep/hibernate/turn off display command. Alternatively you can turn the Flash Detection off if it is not required 😛
You can download v3 beta from the Beta folder at https://sourceforge.net/projects/sleepsharp/files/.


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News > World's scientists meet to plan drought action
With the tragic consequences of drought unfolding in the Horn of Africa, the problem of how we cope - or do not - with large scale drought is top if the agenda yet again. With the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) stating that the world has been more drought-prone during the past 25 years, and that climate projections indicate an increased frequency of droughts in the future, some kind of concerted action is seen as increasingly necessary.
Scientists and policy makers from around the world have gathered at George Mason University in Virginia USA, for the 'Expert Meeting on the Preparation of a Compendium on National Drought Policy' from 14th to 15th July 2011. The meeting is being jointly organised by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the George Mason University's College of Science (COS), the US National Drought Mitigation Centre (NDMC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
"Drought is a serious problem in many countries. Without a coordinated, national drought policy that includes elements such as effective monitoring and early warning systems to deliver timely information to decision makers; effective impact assessment procedures; pro-active risk management measures; preparedness plans aimed at increasing the coping capacity; and effective emergency response programs directed at reducing the impacts of drought; nations will continue to respond to drought in a reactive, crisis management mode", said, Mr Michel Jarraud, Secretary-General of the WMO. "Our ability to lessen or mitigate the impacts associated with drought is contingent on putting in place comprehensive national drought policies. This expert meeting is an excellent first step in preparing a Compendium on National Drought Policy."
Currently East Africa is enduring its worst drought in 60 years. Ten million people are at risk after the worst drought in decades hit large areas of Somalia, Ethiopia, Djibouti and Kenya. A severe drought along the Yangtze River region in central China has left 315,000 people short of drinking water, and more than two million acres of farmland has been affected. This past October through May in Texas, USA, was the driest eight-month stretch the state has experienced in its modern history, and the impact on agriculture is approaching $1.5 billion
Content © Copyright theWeatherClub 2010
Registered Company No: 7341588
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Contact: Maria Blomgren
Karlavägen 108
Box 24184
104 51 Stockholm
Phone: +4687626832
Fax: +4686110828
Website: www.grafiska.se
Personal e-mail: maria.blomgren(at)grafiska.se
General e-mail: info(at)grafiska.se
SIS is the Swedish national standards organisation connected to ISO. TC 130 is a technical committee on graphical technology connected to the technical committees within ISO. SIS TK 434 is the Swedish technical committee for Graphic Technology, and also a participating member of ISO/TC130.
SIS TK 434 is constituted of a trade council called BRS (Branschrådet för Standarder och Rekommendationer). The objective of BRS is to follow and disseminate information about trade recommendations and up-to-date standards regarding handling of information. It also initiates and influences recommendations and standards for the benefit of the graphic industry. As a member of BRS, GFF is actively involved in the development of standards.
Currently, GFF is working with an ISO-standardisation project, whose objective is to develop guidelines in Swedish for standardisation of the printing process according to ISO 12647-2. The guidelines are compiled in a manual called CGP "Certifierad Grafisk Produktion" (Certified Graphic Production). Until now, all information about ISO 12647-2 has only been available in English or German. CGP aims to facilitate for Swedish graphic companies to achieve the ISO certification, and thus enable them to guarantee their customers a high and even quality of their production.
Contact: Linus Lehnberg
NAHP, c/o Animus
Box 63, SE-776 22 Hedemora
Phone: +46 (0)70 727 57 58 (NAHP)
+46 (0)70 230 94 95 (Linus Lehnberg)
Fax: +46 (0)225 300 44 (NAHP)
Website: www.nahp.nu
Personal e-mail: linuslehnberg(at)hotmail.com
General e-mail: anders(at)bovin.se (NAHP)
A subgroup within NAHP called TPC (Technical Projects Committee) manages all research projects. The outcome of the work done in the TPC is presented.
Intergraf © 2018


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THIS sexy celeb is renowned for her need to shock – usually by flaunting her bod in revealing outfits.
But now outrageous singer Ke$ha has raised the shock bar even higher, by Tweeting a pic of herself squatting by the side of the road and taking a leak. The pants-down pic even taunted police to 'come and get me if you can find me.'
The 25-year-old 'Tik Tok' singer says she was stuck in traffic and couldn't wait.
She could have been charged with a $270 fine under California law.


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UVA Department of Medicine
(July 2013 to June 2014)
Hollins Lecture
Emma Eggleston, MD
Harvard Medical School & Brigham and Women's Hospital
Virginia Commonwealth University
Consultant Infectious Diseases, King Faisal Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Balancing Benefits with Harms and Costs
Bowman Lecture
Lies, D*!m Lies, and the Probability of Truth – High Value Biostatistical Concepts
Rebecca Dillingham, MD
UVA Center for Global Health
Brodie Lecture
Atuk Lecture
Liverman Lecture
Grollman Lecture
Crispell Lecture
Respess Lecture
The University of Virginia School of Medicine is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The University of Virginia School of Medicine designates this live activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)TM. Physicians should claim only credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The University of Virginia School of Medicine awards 0.1 CEU per contact hour to each non-physician participant who successfully completes this educational activity. The CEU (Continuing Education Unit) is a nationally recognized unit of measure for continuing education and training activities that meet specific educational planning requirements. The University of Virginia School of Medicine maintains a permanent record of participants who have been awarded CEUs.


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In April of this year, Dr. Deborah Birx was appointed as Ambassador-at-Large and coordinator of all U.S. government activities to address HIV globally.
As the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator, Ambassador Birx oversees the implementation of U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) as well as the U.S. government's engagement with the Global Fund. Together, the U.S. government's commitments through PEPFAR and the Global Fund account for nearly half of all global funding for HIV and AIDS.
Following her appointment, the Global Forum on MSM & HIV (MSMGF) coordinated with Ambassador Birx's office over several months to schedule a meeting during her planned visit to the San Francisco Bay Area in October. PEPFAR and the Global Fund represent two of the most important funding streams supporting HIV work among men who have sex with men (MSM) and other key populations worldwide, and it is essential that these funding mechanisms work as well as possible to support the health and human rights of our populations.
With funding from the Elton John AIDS Foundation, the MSMGF was able to support four of our partners to travel to the Bay Area to attend the meeting in person: Dr. Cheikh Traore, co-chair of the Solidarity Alliance for Human Rights (Nigeria); Serge Douomang Yotta, Executive Director of Affirmative Action (Cameroon); Claver Toure, Executive Director of Alternative Cote d'Ivoire (Cote D'Ivoire); and Brian Macharia, Program Coordinator, Ishtar (Kenya).
In advance of the meeting, the MSMGF consulted extensively with each participating partner as well as key staff from African Men for Sexual Health and Rights (AMSHeR) to develop a concrete set of top priority concerns to address at the meeting with Ambassador Birx. Following an introductory presentation by MSMGF Executive Director Dr. George Ayala, participating partners presented the six priority concerns to Ambassador Birx using concrete examples from their own experience. Points are summarized below.
1. More meaningful engagement of civil society, inclusive of MSM and other key populations, in the Country Operational Planning process, and making engagement opportunities more transparent.
Nigeria receives some of the largest amounts of funding from PEPFAR, with funding support for MSM work dating back to 2008. However, MSM and other key populations still face real challenges when trying to engage meaningfully and participate in development of PEPFAR's Country Operating Plan (COP) in Nigeria.
The COP process itself remains very opaque. We don't know when it happens or who is involved. Big implementers are often at the table, but they represent a variety of populations and interests that do not necessarily reflect the interest of key populations. Moreover, key population-led civil society groups are often left out of and not consulted in the process. For example, some of the funding and programmatic decisions made through the COP process are very far from what key population communities need or want.
2. Funding comprehensive, rights‐based responses inclusive of programs that are community-, MSM‐, and key population‐led.
In Kenya, key population civil society advocates have done significant work with the government over the last few years focused on HIV interventions targeting MSM. The Global Fund has led the way in supporting these interventions and pushing for greater transparency and accountability. However, it is much less clear what PEPFAR's mechanisms are for ensuring that funding trickles down to reach smaller community-based organizations, particularly those led by and serving MSM. This makes it difficult for key population civil society advocates to watchdog and hold organizations accountable if things need to be pushed or changed.
Things are further complicated in Kenya by the fact that some key implementers receiving PEPFAR funds are not supportive of advocacy campaigns or efforts to reduce stigma and discrimination for key populations, since most of their work focuses on other prevention and treatment programs. These large recipient organizations are implementing these programs without input from key population civil society organizations.
3. Securing country buy‐in for MSM‐ and key population‐focused work.
We are aware of the new PEPFAR funding targeting key populations through the five year USAID Linkages program, which will be an extremely important funding source for key populations. Moreover, we know that the success of this program will depend on country buy-in as a mechanism for increasing funding to key population programs and interventions.
All civil society participants at the meeting are committed to increasing government buy-in to fund HIV responses with targeted interventions for key populations. Civil society participants and Ambassador Birx's team discussed numerous options for increasing buy-in, including standardized processes for civil society to inform PEPFAR secretariat staff of exclusion from COP processes; adding staff to review COP processes for civil society inclusion; and adapting the country dialogue processes used in the Global Fund's New Funding Model to PEFPAR's COP process. The MSMGF has provided draft language for inclusion in the COP Guidance to facilitate greater civil society participation.
4. Creating mechanisms for getting funds to smaller, community‐, MSM‐, key population‐led organizations, including core funding and funding for leadership development and advocacy.
PEPFAR provides a great deal of support to Cameroon. However, PEPFAR funding is mainly directed to major NGOs and national authorities instead of grassroots organizations. Over a year ago, Affirmative Action applied for a small amount of funding provided by PEPFAR through the Local Capacity Initiative, which only offers funding for activities and not core operating costs. Affirmative Action never received any notice regarding the results of their application.
The HIV work done with key populations by Affirmative Action and similar organizations in Cameroon is very sensitive, and it does not have the support of the government. Cameroonian civil society organizations really need capacity and institutional support to do this work, and we urge more PEPFAR funding be directed to the needs of grassroots organizations.
The Ambassador explained that PEPFAR has had difficulty getting more funding to grassroots groups because there are limited mechanisms through which PEPFAR can do this. The Ambassador committed her office to exploring new and existing funding mechanisms to provide increased funding to civil society organizations, including through the Ambassador's Small Grants and the Robert Carr Civil Society Network Fund.
5. Ensuring PEPFAR‐funded implementers are human rights‐based and promote key populations.
Access to health cannot be delinked from human rights, even in difficult environments like Cote d'Ivoire. Some of the larger PEPFAR implementers that Alternative Cote d'Ivoire works with as a sub-recipient exhibit homophobic behavior.
For example, when Claver's office and home were ransacked, he reached out to the main PEPFAR implementer in Cote d'Ivoire to ask for help with personal security and a safe alternative work space. He was told by the implementer that they do not handle these kinds of issues as they are only tasked with working on HIV. They were concerned that they would be accused of promoting homosexuality if they intervened too much. Ultimately, the French embassy provided security to protect Alternative Cote d'Ivoire's office.
This example and many others like it highlight the need for PEPFAR to develop better mechanisms to respond to human rights emergencies and ensure the security of the people working on the ground. We need a mechanism that allows advocates to report human rights emergencies to PEPFAR secretariat staff, informing them of what is going on in their country. Ambassador Birx pointed out that PEPFAR already has non-discrimination clauses in all contracts with implementers, but enforcement remains an issue. She committed to continuing to work with embassies and State Department staff to respond effectively to human rights emergencies.
6. Facilitating better data collection and utilization to improve targeting of funding and interventions for MSM and other key populations, without sacrificing their safety and security.
Community members must be partners in data collection and research, including monitoring and evaluation activities. These are challenging issues, especially considering the sensitive nature of some of the data and the associated risks. Better systems are needed for south-south exchange, data collection, and data evaluation that protect the rights and safety of key populations involved.
Throughout the meeting, Ambassador Birx and her senior advisors were highly engaged in a very lively discussion and debate with the MSMGF staff and partners. The MSMGF and partners will follow up with Ambassador Birx and her team on each of the issues raised in this meeting, and we welcome additional input on PEPFAR and the Global Fund from our members, who are invited to write us anytime at firstname.lastname@example.com with concerns or requests.
Ambassador Birx continues to prove herself a passionate and committed ally to key populations globally. We look forward to working with her to ensure that issues impacting key populations are recognized and addressed based on evidence and input from the ground.