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Toronto & Ontario area Detention Centre Research
this is in memory of Michael Akhimien, a Nigerian asylum seeker who died in solitary confinement 9 years ago this week. he was in custody at the detention centre (in a converted motel) near the airport, about 15 minutes from where i live.
i've got a lot of stuff here, so i'll start with the basics, and then if you are interested, you can read on down.
here is the outline of this email:
-the list of detention centres (first the main ones that we *know* hold refugees, then later on, i've attached the full listing from Corrections Canada)
-the list of groups who work on migrant defense issues
-the list of profiteering corps
-1996 notes on canada's detention policies, incl. the old infamous "Celebrity Inn", and notes on Mr. Akhimien's death
-full Corrections Canada address listings
- gov't notes on DETAINEE ISSUES (from the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General, regarding Refugee legal aid and detention centre processes)
- notes on Metro West Detention Centre (also near airport, and the '96 hunger strike there)
- callout from a Marxist Leninist paper in 2002 re: an action against Metro West, we did this in solidarity with another hunger strike there.)
- notes from the Campaign to Stop Secret Trials (recent, their focus is on the illegal detentions of Arab men, in secret, without appeals, since Sept. 11th)
- the March 2004 OCAP call out for a demo against the construction of the Heritage Inn (a bigger jail, for all the more families which CIC is grabbing off the planes and marching over there. It replaced the Celebrity Inn in April.)
- notes on the very exciting art project that No One Is Illegal activists are doing at the Heritage Inn (formerly the Celebrity Inn) with mostly women and children detainees
- info on the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Campaign
------ here goes: -------------------------
THE MAIN MIGRANT DETENTION CENTRES in our area are:
Heritage Inn (Toronto Immigrant Holding Centre) at 385 Rexdale Blvd. (near
the airport). a new, larger detention centre which opened in April and
replaced the old 'Celebrity Inn'... same old shit tho, with men, women and
children behind razor wire, locked up, poor conditions, endless waiting.
Toronto West Detention Centre
631 beds (it's huge, and 1/4 of this place are migrants!)
111 Disco Rd. Box 4950 Rexdale, Ont. M9W 5L6
416-675-1806 Fax: 416-674-7515
Groups in Toronto working on status and detention centre issues..
ACTIVIST (not a very thorough listing!!! needs additions)
No One Is Illegal
Anti-Racist Action
Heads Up Collective (not sure if they're still active.)
-Metro Toronto Chinese and South-east Asian Legal Clinic
-Justice for Children and Youth Legal Clinic
-STATUS Campaign of OCASI (Ontario Coalition of Agencies Serving
-Community Social Planning Council of Toronto
-Access Alliance Multicultural Community Health Centre
-INTERCEDE for the Rights of Domestic Workers, Caregivers and Newcomers
(CIC funded)
-Migrante Women's Collective (also a Filipina women workers collective but
w/o CIC funding)
-Migrant Sex Workers Advocacy Group
- Don't Ask, Don't Tell -- a campaign to get all municipal employees
(incl. Police) to refrain from asking any questions about a person's
status, so that people without papers can better access services, without
fear of Immigration Canada finding out where they are.
-Campaign to Stop Secret Trials -- Under the CSIS (Canadian Security
Intelligence Service) Certificate, Canada's spy agency has largely Muslim
men or men of Middle Eastern or Arabic background thrown behind bars,
without charges or bail, threatened with deportation to a country where
they face torture or execution. Neither they nor their lawyers are allowed
to see the "evidence" against them under the blanket claim of "national
security." There is no appeal of the Federal Court ruling delivered by a
CSIS-approved judge. The Campaign to Stop Secret Trials organizes court
support, engages in research and political action and tries to provide
support for the families of Canada's "disappeared." The campaign is rooted
in anti-racist principles, and explicitly condemns Islamophobia,
anti-semitism, and all related forms of religious and political
PROFITEERING CORPS (remember, most of Canada's prisons are still "public",
but there is a lot of outsourcing, especially around transport of
prisoners and so on which is creeping into the system.)
-Metropol private security firm (with the Pearson international airport,
and the nearby Missisauga Immigration Detention Centre, aka. Heritage
Inn, they do transport, and initial holding mostly)
- Management & Training Corporation -- this is a Utah, US-based company
which runs one of Mike Harris' new "superprisons", the Central North
Correctional Centre near Penetanguishene. It is vying for a UK contract,
also runs prisons in Costa Rica, Mexico, Australia, and of course, the US,
where it is a key player in the private prison industry, with 9.2% of the
market in 2003 at 10,927 beds.) In Ontario, the staff of the prison did
vote to join the Ontario Public Service Employees Union. According to the
Prison Privatisation Report International, MTC admits to being constantly
in breach of their $34.16 million contract with the government, and many
of the breaches have threatened the safety and health of inmates, one of
whom died last year of blood poisoning and delays in getting him into a
hospital. Although I'm not entirely sure how many immigrants and refugees
end up at Central North, the MTC has a nasty enough reputation... John
Ashcroft, the US attorney general, put MTC director Lane McCotter in
charge of reopening Iraq's prison system. McCotter helped to rebuild Abu
Ghraib and trained Iraqi citizens to work in prisons. (more info at:
http://www.thetruthseeker.co.uk/article.asp?ID=2402) You should type in
his name on google and see all the shit that corp. has done. but back to
our story on local detention centres....
From: Anti-Colonial Action Alliance, Sept. 1996
According to a prisoner at a federal correctional facility in Ontario,
"the over-zealous attitude of the Immigration Department's removal section
detains inmates for an indefinite amount of time before carrying out the
deportation order. This is called, a 'deportation hold'. This prevents all
immigrants from being processed through the correctional system to minimum
security facilities. All day paroles, and full paroles are being denied.
They are eligible, but are not considered for any accelerated release,
work related plans, or escorted or unescorted temporary passes. They are
not even considered for release to any halfway houses. The only way they
can be released is to file for parole with deportation when they are
deported to their foreign homeland." As a result many immigrants who have
completed their sentence are arbitrarily detained until they are deported.
Refugees and immigrants can be arrested or detained without a criminal
charge and held indefinitely for any reason or no reason, anytime and
anywhere once they arrive in Canada until they are granted citizenship. In
an article written in Refugee Update (winter, 1994) by Chris Boles it
states "Cases of Detention appear to be increasing. In 1991/2 there were
almost 6800 cases of detention throughout Canada. In 1992/3 that figure
had increased to a total of 7796 detainees, almost 5000 of them in
Ontario." There were no figures available for later years but refugee
advocates suggest strongly that the numbers of detainees has continued to
In the majority of these cases, the people have no criminal record and are
not a threat to Canada or Canadians. Refugees and immigrants are being
arbitrarily detained in violation of the Canadian Charter of Rights of
Freedoms section 7; "Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security
of the person and the right not to be deprived thereof except in
accordance with the principles of fundamental justice."
On December 18, 1995, Nigerian Mike Akhinen died from medical neglect at
Celebrity Inn, an Immigration Holding Centre outside of Toronto. His death
highlights the situation of many refugees held in detention centres across
Canada. Approximately one quarter of the prison population at the Metro
Toronto West Detention Centre, a maximum security prison, are immigrants
and refugees placed under a deportation hold, held without a criminal
From Amnesty International.s 1997 Report on Canada:
Michael Akhimen, an asylum-seeker from Nigeria held in detention in the
Celebrity Inn Immigration Holding Center in Toronto, died of diabetic
ketoacidosis after receiving inadequate medical attention in December
1995. A coroner's inquiry made recommendations to prevent future
unnecessary deaths of asylum-seekers in similar circumstances. The
recommendations are currently being considered by the Department of
Citizenship and Immigration.
From his family.s court case vs. the State:
Mr. Akhimien was arrested on 28 October 1995, after having filed an
application for asylum in Canada. He was held at the Canadian Immigration
Detention Centre of Niagara Falls until 30 October 1995 when he was
transferred to the Canadian Immigration Holding Centre Celebrity Inn in
Mississauga, Ontario. Mr. Akhimien remained at the Celebrity Inn until his
death, caused by pneumonia and/or untreated diabetes, on 17 December 1995.
On 6 December 1995, Mr. Akhimien first complained to other detainees at
the Celebrity Inn that he was experiencing health problems, including
blurred vision. Subsequent to a new request to see the medical doctor on
13 December, Mr. Akhimien was put in solitary confinement. Counsel states
that he was put in solitary confinement because he was perceived to be a
troublemaker, constantly complaining about living conditions in the
Celebrity Inn. Mr. Akhimien remained in solitary confinement until his
From The Nigerian Canadian Association v. Dr. Trevor Gilmore (a coroner)
This case involves Nigerian refugee claimant Michael Akhimien, who died of
diabetes related keto-acidosis while on detention at the Canada
Immigration holding centre at the Celebrity Inn in Mississauga. Prior to
his death Mr. Akhimien made repeated requests to the Immigration officials
at the holding centre to be seen by a doctor. Despite these requests Mr.
Akhimien was not given any medical treatment while in custody. Mr.
Akhimien was disciplined by a guard for going to get a glass of water
without the guard's permission. A symptom of Mr. Akhimien's medical
condition was that he was always very thirsty. The punishment for this
act was that he was thrown into solitary confinement where he died soon
after in his cell. A Coroner's Inquest was held in which the Nigerian
Canadian Association, which represented Mr. Akhimien's family, was denied
the opportunity of calling several witnesses who could testify about Mr.
Akhimien's condition prior to his death. The ACLC assumed the task of
representing the Nigerian Canadian Association in the Judicial Review of
the actions of the Coroner with the aim of achieving broad guidelines with
respect to the conduct of Coroner's Inquests. The transcripts of the
Coroner's Inquest in this case have been completed and forwarded and the
ACLC is currently drafting the legal documents to be submitted to court.
A hearing date has not yet been set.
Correctional Services Jurisdiction
In carrying out its correctional services mandate, the Ministry of
Community Safety and Correctional Services has jurisdiction over:
· offenders 18 years of age and over who are:
o sentenced to terms of imprisonment of less than two years, and/or
o terms of probation of up to three years, or
o conditional sentences of up to two years less a day;
· offenders under parole supervision, as granted by the Ontario
Parole and Earned Release Board;
· adults on remand, awaiting trial or sentencing;
· adults held for immigration hearing or deportation;
· offenders awaiting transfer to federal institutions to serve
sentences of two years or more.
The ministry maintains the following facilities:
· 26 jails and detention centres;
· 10 correctional centres (9 publicly operated and 1 privately
· 2 correctional complexes; and
· 125 probation and parole offices.
Elgin-Middlesex Detention Centre 450 beds 711 Exeter Rd.
London, Ont.
Fax: 519-686-0352
Hamilton-Wentworth Detention Centre --114 beds 165 Barton St. E.
Hamilton, Ont.
Fax: 905-529-0977
Niagara Detention Centre -- 260 beds Hwy 58 1355 Uppers Lane
Box 1050
Thorold, Ont.
Fax: 905-227-0032
Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre 326 beds 2244 Innes Rd.
Ottawa, Ont.
Fax: 613-824-1297
Quinte Detention Centre 228 beds 89 Richmond Blvd.
Napanee, Ont.
Fax: 613-354-1209
Toronto East Detention Centre 473 beds 55 Civic Rd.
Scarborough, Ont.
Fax: 416-750-3345
Toronto West Detention Centre 631 beds 111 Disco Rd.
Box 4950
Rexdale, Ont.
Fax: 416-674-7515
DETAINEE ISSUES (from the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General,
regarding Refugee legal aid and detention centre processes)
At any given time, a number of immigrants and refugee claimants are
currently detained at the Celebrity Inn in Toronto, Metro West Detention
Centre in Toronto, and elsewhere in the province. Some are brought into
detention directly from the Port of Entry on suspicion that their identity
documents are fraudulent. Some of these persons are refugee claimants;
others are persons who say they are visitors or students, but are
disbelieved. Other people are detained out of suspicion that they will try
to enter the United States illegally through Canada, or are suspected of
criminality. Another class of detainees have been picked up in Canada.
These include persons with failed or abandoned refugee claims, visitors
and students who have overstayed their visas, potential refugee claimants
who entered illegally and went underground, and refugee claimants or
permanent residents who committed criminal offences in Canada and are
subject to deportation as a result. Certificates are rarely, if ever,
granted for detention reviews. Community legal workers, law students, and
on occasion, private lawyers have furnished advice and representation, but
the arrangements are patchwork and unsatisfactory in relation to actual
representation at detention reviews.
A serious and unaddressed need exists with respect to legal representation
for detainees. Clearly, not all people in detention would qualify for
legal representation in respect of the immigration process to which they
are subject, such as deportation for overstaying a visa. On the other
hand, even summary advice in such cases can enable detainees to make
informed choices about their options, including a decision to return to
their country of origin rather than remain in detention with little
prospect of success on the merits of the case. As for detained refugee
claimants, those who are released could enter the general pool of
claimants who apply for legal aid.
There appears to be a consensus that whoever provides representation to
detainees, it ought to be a designated person or persons who do so on a
consistent and regular basis. This is critical for purposes of
establishing familiarity and competence in dealing with the institutions
and the staff who run them. Whether this service is provided by counsel
from a community legal clinic, or from the Refugee Law Office (RLO), or by
duty counsel, is less critical than simply ensuring that the service is
Some random activist notes on Metro West and the hunger strike in 1996
(there was another one in 2002, I believe)
(from 1996/1997).
An estimated 100-125 refugee claimants and others being detained on
immigration matters at the Metro Toronto West Detention Centre (MTWDC)
went on a hunger strike for a week in July. Other prisoners, those
awaiting trial on criminal offences, joined in the protest, because of the
overcrowding and forced transfers Canada's Immigration detention policy is
creating. The refugees, who alone account for 20% of the Metro West's
adult male prisoner population and others facing deportation were hoping
that the strike would bring local and international attention to the
following concerns:
1. Indefinite detention
2. Poor living conditions
3. Lack of access to community resources and legal services
4. Arbitrary deportations
5. Human rights abuses & brutality by staff
6. Racism and discrimination
Many of those awaiting deportation are kept languishing in jail for 2-3
years at a time (more time than some federal sentences), with many never
even being accused of committing any criminal offences in Canada and many
others never seeing any more of Canada than the inside of a jail cell.
Many were previously detained at the Celebrity Inn, a private detention
centre run by Immigration Canada and Metropol private security firm, which
was built to hold some 80 inmates but which usually ends up holding more
like 150. A large number have refuted their refugee claims, preferring to
face potentially deadly fates in their home countries than to die of abuse
and neglect in a foreign jail. Such was the case with Michael Akhimen, a
Nigerian man who had been sick with diabetes, who died from medical
neglect and physical abuse at the Celebrity Inn in December 1995, after he
was thrown into solitary confinement with no food and water for more than
one week, after he complained about the lack of medical attention.
The Metro West Detention Centre is one of the only Toronto area jails
without a Streetlink centre, making it especially difficult for prisoners
to get in contact with legal clinics, community organisations, and other
agencies that provide services to refugees. Since the provincial cutbacks
to legal aid, access is severely limited for everyone, doubly so for
people who are not recognised as Canadian citizens.
All prisoners at the MTWDC are double and triple-bunked in single person
cells, further adding to an already tense situation where people have zero
personal space or privacy. In a setting where health care is virtually
non-existent, this makes people extremely vulnerable to illness and
The criteria on which they are kept in detention is extremely arbitrary,
the most commonly cited pretence being that immigration thinks it has
reason to believe a person won't show up to their hearing, with
alternative arrangements for supervision very rarely being tried. People
with claims in more than one country are frequently detained, with no
consideration paid to the fact that many of the refugees - the majority of
whom are continental Africans - went to Europe first, where many
encountered neo-nazi violence and racist immigration policies identical to
Canada's, where many found themselves detained under identical
Improper travel documents are another commonly used justification, an
especially frustrating situation for Africans from nations such as Rwanda,
Liberia, or Nigeria (which lack either governments or diplomatic relations
with Canada), and Palestinians, who are not allowed to return home because
of the Israeli government's genocidal expulsion policies.
Physical abuse, brutality, and racist insults and provocations from the
mostly white staff is very common, with many people citing an incident
June this year, when Steve Williams, a failed refugee claimant from
Nigeria, was beaten severely both at the jail and at the airport on the
eve of his deportation, and citing attempts by certain guards to
deliberately incite tensions between different ethnic groups when they
don't exist, and exploit them when they do.
The Metro West Detention Brothers are urging the public to get involved in
making their demands and their situation an international issue, to shed
light on Canada's hypocritical and racist policies and practices.
Struggling in obscurity and isolation is no longer an option; as Kashif
Ali, a man from Ghana who has been in detention for the past 28 months has
put it, "I have nothing to lose, I have lost everything already."
From the Marxist-Leninist Daily, 2002.
Detainees are segregated from their families (children being separated
from their parents or parents), denied access to basic sanitation and
medical care and prevented from quick access to legal counsel, among other
things. Immigration hearings to review the cases of those detained are
conducted by video-camera instead of a face-to-face hearings in court, so
that even their basic humanity is violated. All this is being done in
secrecy by the Canadian state, away from the scrutiny of the Canadian
The Heads Up Collective (Colours of Resistance), Anti-Racist Action and
Ontario Coalition Against Poverty are organizing a Rally at the Celebrity
Budget Inn (Airport Road, just north of American Drive) and Toronto West
Detention Centre (111 Disco Road) on Saturday, February 16 as another
action to demand:
No Punitive Segregation!
No Secret Hearings!
Full Disclosure of Information on Post-9/11 Detainees!
Rights and Dignity for Detainees!
Amnesty for Undocumented Migrants!
An End to the Secrecy!
From The Campaign to Stop Secret Trials..
Jackman asks him about a planned superjail for immigration detainees, and
asks whether it will be set up for families too. Dietrich baldly sates,
"CIC [Immigration] does not detain kids," something which would come as a
surprise to the children often detained at the Heritage Inn (formerly
Celebrity Inn), an ill-named prison in which babies and young children are
often interned with their parents.
She is followed by Head of Security at the West, Frank Geswaldo, a
soft-spoken man who details the command structure at the jail and says as
many as 15-20% of the detainees there are immigration holds. He is bemused
that there actually is a range called immigration, given that it is no
different than any other range at the facility. "My question is what's the
difference?" he says. "Cells are cells, a unit is a unit."
From OCAP, March 2004, Demo callout against Heritage Inn construction.
Immigration Canada.s infamous Toronto detention centre, the Celebrity
Inn, is closing down. In its place, a larger jail is set to open on
April 1st. The Heritage Inn, a former hotel on Rexdale Boulevard in the
city.s north-west end, will hold even more (im)migrants and refugees -
people imprisoned because they do not have landed status, because
Immigration Canada does not believe their identities or their stories of
flight and persecution, because the authorities need only have .suspicion.
in order to throw people inside.
On Saturday, March 27th, we are calling on people to converge on the new
prison before it opens. We are living in a time where Immigration
authorities are moving faster and harder to arrest, jail and deport
(im)migrants and refugees - peoples. lives, their homes, their families
are being destroyed. People are hunted down in their apartments, at
their workplaces, stopped in cars and on the streets by cops and
enforcement authorities who work together to carry out policies that try
to ensure many people are denied the chance to get landed status in this
country. The Canadian state has imposed laws designed to welcome select
people with wealth and priviledge and deny many others the right to secure
homes, income, health care, or education.
The Heritage Inn, with higher walls and taller fences, epitomizes a
shift by Immigration Canada to jail people first and ask questions
later, decent access to lawyers or translators, to set bonds for
peoples. release from detention in the thousands of dollars, to deny
jailed children and parents access to fresh air, schooling or healthy
food - and for many people, to rip them from live built in Canada
without fair hearings, appeals processes, or any just opportunity to
have safe and secure futures in our communities.
In light of the recent retribution dealt by the Canadian state against a
courageous and tireless non-status Alergian organizer, Mohamed Cherfi,
targeted for risking his own status by refusing to back down against
Immigration policy that would have resulted in the deportation of a huge
community of Algerians to a country wracked with civil war, the call to
resist rings even louder. Mohamed and members of the Action Committee of
Non-Status Algerians organized relentlessly, taking repeated action and
winning a major concession that saw hundreds of people win landed status.
In the spirit of this victory and all people fighting for status both in
this country and around the world, we must act.
Fight back against this attack. Resist the racist and inhumane detention
and deportation machine, operating under the guise of .security. and the
untruth that all people coming to Canada have equal and easy access to
applying for papers that would allow them to stay. In a world where power
and greed has tilted the balance of resources and standard of living so
heavily in favour of so few, people should have the freedom to move, the
freedom to choose a safe and decent life for themselves and their
Join us on March 27th at Immigration Canada's newest racist jail, The
Heritage Inn. All participation welcome.
No Detention.
No Deportations.
No Prisons.
No one is Illegal.
To book a free seat on the bus, to make a donation or for more
information, contact OCAP (416-925-6939 / email@example.com).
December 12, 2004 - Guest/host event: Fundraiser for No One Is Illegal .
Toronto.s Art Group Project.
No One Is Illegal . Toronto has put together an art group for women and
children held in immigration detention since December 2003, at the
Heritage Inn (Toronto Immigrant Holding Centre) at 385 Rexdale Blvd. This
event showcases the artwork created in Toronto.s detention centre,
bringing the messages of those incarcerated within its walls to the
outside world and undermining nationalist assumptions of Canada as a
multicultural, immigrant-welcoming nation. As a space to open up
discussion on the issues faced by non-status immigrants in Canada, this is
a fundraising event to raise money and art supplies in order to continue
the art group project. Snacks and beverages will be served. Admission
Non-status immigrants are among the most marginalized groups in Canada.
Economic exploitation through underpaid wage labour and mistreatment at
the hands of employers, landlords and others are typical experiences faced
by people living without full legal immigration status. This is compounded
by the fact that they face significant barriers to public services, such
as legal support, education, emergency services, housing, health care, and
social services. As well, non-status immigrants in Canada face significant
risks including detention, deportation and surveillance.
No One is Illegal . Toronto is a group of immigrants, refugees and allies.
We work to educate, mobilize and network to defend immigrants, migrant
workers, refugees, and indigenous peoples, to oppose war and racism, and
to deepen our understanding of colonialism, capitalism, patriarchy and
migration in today.s world.
Our demands:
* regularization of all non-status people in Canada
* no deportations
* no detentions
* no racial or religious profiling
* recognition of the right to free movement
* recognition of Indigenous sovereignty
from the New Socialist article on the Don.t Ask, Don.t Tell Campaign..
These Are The People in Your Neighborhood
There is no official count of people living illegally in Canada nor is
there a way to verify their numbers. Estimates vary but the number most
often cited in studies is 200 000. Many of these people have overstayed
their visas. Others have had their refugee/humanitarian and compassionate
claims turned down. According to the 2003 Auditor General.s report on
Citizenship and Immigration Canada.s control and enforcement, .The gap
between removal orders issued and confirmed removals has grown by about
36,000 in the past six years.
(http://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/domino/reports.nsf/html/20030405ce.html). This
number is projected to grow despite tightened immigration laws and
borders. (These statistics do not include individuals who have voluntarily
left Canada without reporting, those who are appealing their removal, and
illegal entries that are not on immigration Canada.s radar.)
The vast majority of illegals in Canada live in Toronto, Montreal and
Vancouver with Toronto being home to the largest number. Illegals are
drawn to large cities like Toronto because the employment opportunities
are greater in large cities. They are able to remain relatively invisible
among diverse populations, and their settlement may be facilitated by the
existence of common cultural and language communities. There are intricate
well-developed networks through which illegals are able to obtain work and
housing. It is not uncommon for illegals to reside in Canada for years
establishing families with children born in Canada: legal children with
illegal parents. (Children born in Canada of illegal parents receive
Canadian citizenship.)
Good Enough To Work, Good Enough To Stay
Illegal workers make a significant contribution to the Canadian economy.
Jim Murphy of the Greater Toronto Home Builders Association put it
bluntly, "If we didn't have them, we wouldn't be able to build houses"
(November 13, 2003, Canadian Press). In any given day most Canadians have
used a commodity that at one point involved illegal labour. Be it the
clothes they wear, the spaces where they live and shop, the food they eat,
or the manufactured goods they use. Illegals work .underground. in a
variety of jobs including restaurant work, construction, child care, sex
trade work, farming, manufacturing, day labour and cleaning. In 2001, the Ontario Construction Secretariat estimated that the underground economy cost the province about $1.3-billion a year in unpaid income taxes and that underground construction workers accounted for about one-quarter of that industry (about 76,400 workers) (November 15, 2003, The Globe and Mail). Though they do not pay income taxes, illegal workers pay sales taxes on the goods and services they use directly contributing millions of dollars to the governments coffers.
Despite well-publicized, regular crackdowns on illegals, the Canadian state has neither the wherewithal nor the inclination to fully remove illegals nor to stop their entry into Canada. The state lacks the wherewithal because a program to completely eradicate illegals would be too costly. The state lacks the inclination because, as noted previously, illegal workers are an important component of the economy. Mainstream economists have stated that .the economically optimal level of illegal migration is almost certainly greater than zero. The possible fiscal and political costs generated by illegal labour need to be weighed against the economic benefits of cheap and often complementary labour, as well as the often high costs of border controls and internal checks.
Illegal workers are a "flexible" workforce. That is, they are highly exploitable, willing to work for little pay, with no job security, no benefits and in unsafe conditions. Their precarious status and the fear of deportation make it difficult for them to collectively organize. Illegal workers are the ultimate surplus army of labour; their illegal status ensures that capitalists are able to maximize their profits by keeping their expenses down.
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Ayurveda means "Science of Life." The focus of Ayurveda is on long-lasting holistic health, not just a short-term cure. It offers a unique blend of science and philosophy that balances the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual components necessary for long term wellness. A time-tested, ancient system of disease prevention and healthcare, Ayurveda is a complete system of natural medicine and has been a way of life for millions of people across the planet. In Ayurveda, specific therapies are developed for each individual as opposed to a generic cure commonly prescribed by modern medicine. Ayurveda addresses disease from the root cause and provides a permanent cure instead of a quick fix.
Pancha means "five" and Karma means "to cleanse" and so Panchakarma is the ultimate healing experience for detoxifying the body and mind, strengthening the immune system, and restoring balance and well being. It is a deeply powerful yet gentle cleansing process that utilizes deep rest, herbs, body treatments, enemas, steam baths, diet, and specific treatments catered to an individual's unique constitution and health concerns. This extended retreat allows each participant adequate time to release deeply held toxins and blocks that adverse affect the mind and body, allowing the opportunity to reorganize and heal on a profound level.
"PK" is effective for treating a variety of health concerns and imbalances, including but not limited to: stress, anxiety and depression, migraines, arthritis, digestive issues, hypertension, chronic fatigue, joint pain, obesity, diabetes, back pain, ulcers, IBS, muscle and tendon disorders, skin disorders, respiratory diseases, urinary and bowel diseases, chronic constipation, sinusitis, insomnia, addictions, infertility, reversed hearing loss, eating disorders, and more.
Location: Ayurveda Yoga Retreat Center, Coonoor
This idyllic Ayurvedic center is located in the mountains of western Tamil Nadu, close to Kerala is one of the prettiest parts of India. Nestled amidst a lush 10-acre green tea plantation, healing eucalyptus forests, nearby waterfalls, and surrounded by the pure Nilgiri Mountain air, the retreat is in the perfect environment for rejuvenation. Away from the hustle of the city and surrounded in natural beauty, expect a profound transformation to take place! Every meal is made fresh with the retreat's own source of pure mineral water and organic vegetables and herbs. With world-class Ayurvedic physicians and panchakarma therapists, and an amazing staff of chefs and gardeners, this peaceful retreat center combines modern comforts with the best of ancient medicine and a beautiful setting you will come to call home. Should you want to venture out for day trips, there are also many optional excursions to personalize your once in a lifetime experience in India, including the markets of Coonoor City, a train ride through the mountains to the town of Ooty, and even a day trip to an elephant reservation, not to mention endless walking and hiking just steps out of the retreat!
The beautiful thing about this retreat center is that it offers an opportunity to be intimate with the Indian villages nearby and to offer Karma yoga either by participating with school children or donating time to families in need. We'll explore some of these villages together and meet some of the families John has come to know well over the years, and here you will find opportunities to give of yourself and receive the warmth and brightness of their spirit. It's a living, breathing reminder of our interconnectedness on this planet. To get a flavor of these villages, watch John de Kadt's music video "The Village" on YouTube
John de Kadt is a percussionist, poet, and storyteller. He has played ethnic hand percussive instruments for over 30 years and plays drums from across the globe. He has performed around the world, taught drumming on PBS and live nationally on NBC, and has performed with Krishna Das, David Darling, Subash Chandra, Ganesh Kumar, Jai Uttal, Robert Bly, Baba Olantunji, Colman Barks, and many others including being a founding member of Internationally acclaimed group, The Hanumen. John has released five CDs and travels world wide performing his unique and powerful blend of poetry, story, and percussion. Before doing music full time, John was an acupuncturist, herbalist, and Ayurvedic consultant for 15 years. He loves and still practices many aspects of these holistic medicines.
Katie O'Connell has been practicing yoga for almost 20 years and is an Ayurvedic Health Practitioner and Ayurvedic Yoga Therapist. Katie owns her own retreat center, Dragonfly Yoga Barn, in the beautiful White Mountains of NH with her husband of 24 years, where they facilitate retreats and events of all kinds. Katie is a singer, poet, mother, gardener, and life-long student of Nature. She has over 700 hours of yoga study with Paula Tursi, Sudha Lundeen (Kripalu), Cora Wen, Sadie Nardini, and many others, and nearly 1,000 hours in the study of Ayurveda with Dr. Paul Dugliss (New World Ayurveda) and Dr. Marc Halpern (California College of Ayurveda) as well as certifications in Thai Yoga, Yoga Nidra, Restorative Yoga, Reiki, and more. Katie runs international retreats, teaches daily yoga classes, provides education in Ayurveda and yoga, offers Ayurveda consultations, private yoga therapy, Thai bodywork, and yoga coaching at Dragonfly. Her greatest teachers of all are her students, her children, and her husband and parter in everything, Declan.
February 19 ~ March 11th, 2016
Two and Three Week Options!
This retreat is a true blessing. In our very chaotic and busy world with what often feels like its unstoppable stresses, taking three weeks for yourself is a true act of self-kindness. It will allow you to unwind and jump start into a whole new level of health and well-being.
Panchakarma is the ultimate mind-body healing experience for detoxifying the body, strengthening the immune system, and restoring balance and well-being. It is a deeply powerful yet gentle cleansing process that utilizes deep rest, herbs, body treatments, enemas, steam baths, diet, and specific treatments all catered to the individual's unique constitution and health concerns. The extended 2-3 week retreat allows our body to release deeply held toxins and blocks that adversely affect our mind and body, giving ourselves new opportunity to reorganize and heal on a profound level. This will be a life changing retreat for your body, mind, and spirit.
You will have ongoing Ayurvedic consultation with on-site Ayurvedic doctors, meals to support your treatment plan, and cleansing practices specific to your needs are all facets of this retreat, which will leave you feeling clear, vibrant, and deeply healed. Your group leaders have designed a retreat experience that includes daily yoga classes with Katie, storytelling and drumming with John, Ayurveda presentations, and lots of free time to walk into the Indian countryside that borders the retreat, investigate the town, or visit local attractions. Nestled beside a lush green tea plantation, eucalyptus forest, nearby waterfalls, and surrounded by the pure Nilgiri Mountain air is what makes the retreat center so special; away from the hustle of the city and surrounded in natural beauty, expect a profound transformation to take place! There are also many optional excursions to personalize your once in a lifetime trip to India!
Feel free to email Katie and John if you are interested in this very special retreat! Space will be limited, and you won't believe the great rates!! Basic single rooms begin at only $1,819.00 for Mini-Panchakarma (2 weeks) and $2,729.00 for Maha-Panchakarma. Deluxe rooms are available at very reasonable additional rates There are two components of the registration process; first contact either Katie or John so that we can send you our registration form and get to know you a little better! You can reach John at [email protected] or Katie at [email protected]gmail.com for more detailed info. We will then prompt you to register for the retreat with Vandana, the retreat representative who will work with you to choose a room and either the Mini or Maha Panchakarma option. Katie is working with a travel agent who will offer special rates to all who book via Katie, so please inquire about this opportunity. We are excited to share this amazing journey with you!!! Please note, dates on the brochure will be updated on next printing.
My new music video The Village is live on Youtube.
I filmed this last year in two little villages in South India. These people are the most remarkable and beautiful souls. I feel honored to have gotten to know them through this process. Presently I'm in India sharing the Video with them and there response is truly heart warming and deeply touching. With this video I wanted to capture how less can be more in some ways….indeed these people are rich in community and spontaneous Joy …Bless Them All !!!!! Thx for watching …here is the link
Check out my new meditative music Video "One Name" filmed last year in Thailand, India and Bali. This film was gratifying to film as it brought me into the middle of many sacred moments which are so familiar to the people of these lands. This video depicts the common mood and sentiment of prayer and devotional practices people share despite cultural, religious and indigenous spiritual differences. The video was put to my song Middle Way which is available on I-Tunes…. I hope you enjoy….Jai Jai
After a year of travel around the globe, and a bunch of time in the music studio recording drums and hang, I'm happy to release my new music video, One Hoop. We truly are all one on this planet and so similar in more ways than we often realize. May this video go out to the world and may we all share the common joy that is felt when we move our bodies and play together. We are never too old to be alive in the One Hoop :-).
Special Thxs to so many who help make this possible….namely Mark Kelso , Carrie Grossman, David de Kadt, Jenay Martin, Cindy Parish and many more! Much love to you all!
*****One Hoop will be available on itunes as a single on 2/22/13!!*****
One Love Immersion: A Celebration of CommUnity
Kirtan. Yoga. Activism. Sangha.
Jason Nemer, John de Kadt, Billy Sadia andNadine McNeil
a celebration of unity through asana, song, dance, massage and community. Benefit from the collective experience of these inspiring teachers Billy, Jason, Jon, Nadine as you immerse yourself in practice, play, sun, sand and sangha. Revel in an all-encompassing experience invoking transformation through devotion and delight. This powerful intensive will offer practical, effective tools so that you may utilize yoga as a vehicle for taking your practice off the mat and into a vaster place of connectedness and love. Each night culminates in a moonlit kirtan, call-and-response chanting of stirring mantras that create a loving vibe enhanced by the magic of Jamaica.
One Love Immersion: A Celebration of CommUnity
Kirtan. Yoga. Activism. Sangha.
Jason Nemer, John de Kadt, Billy Sadia andNadine McNeil
a celebration of unity through asana, song, dance, massage and community. Benefit from the collective experience of these inspiring teachers Billy, Jason, Jon, Nadine as you immerse yourself in practice, play, sun, sand and sangha. Revel in an all-encompassing experience invoking transformation through devotion and delight. This powerful intensive will offer practical, effective tools so that you may utilize yoga as a vehicle for taking your practice off the mat and into a vaster place of connectedness and love. Each night culminates in a moonlit kirtan, call-and-response chanting of stirring mantras that create a loving vibe enhanced by the magic of Jamaica.
Join the amazing and talented Brenda McMorrow and the fabulous yoga teacher Franco Marini and myself for a beautiful Kirtan and Yoga retreat in the magical Costa Rican rain forest In December of 2012. Come and experience this healing and heart opening time as we slow down our rhythms to pulse of nature surrounded by rain forest and ocean. We will tune in with yoga, kirtan, meditation and healthy food and a lot of time in nature. Come relax and restore yourself as we begin to enter a new time of living individually and globally. To lean more and pre register at a discounted price go to Rain Forest Rhythm and Song in Costa Rica

subset: commoncrawl


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Quality Kindergarten through 12th Grade education is critical for ensuring children and youth develop the skills they need to be prepared for college, careers, and adult success. Over 2.7 million children, one million of whom are from New York City, attend one of the almost 5,000 public schools in New York State.
CCC's Work in Education
Citizens' Committee for Children of New York is committed to ensuring all children have access to quality education.
CCC advocates to:
Ensure all schools have the resources they need to provide students with a quality education:
- We advocate for increases in New York State Education Aid to increase the resources for schools statewide.
- We advocate to ensure all public schools have the resources they need for small class sizes, quality teachers, supplies, and support services so they can ensure all students receive the attention and assistance they need to succeed.
Ensure all children are able to obtain a high school diploma, or the equivalent:
- We support the development of early warning systems, which would allow teachers to assess student progress and address student needs before they fall behind academically.
- We advocate for decreasing the numbers of students expelled or suspended, so children remain engaged and connected to their schools.
- We support increased investments in programs, supports and alternative options for youth who have fallen behind in obtaining the credits they need to graduate from high school.
- We advocate for services and supports that close the achievement gap between students.
- We promote programs and policies that create positive school environments in which children can learn, including reforming the disciplinary code, ensuring security measures do not create punitive school environments, and eliminating bullying.
- We advocate for school curricula to be comprehensive and include physical fitness, art, music, nutrition, sexual education and money management.
For more information, please contact Stephanie Gendell at email@example.com.
Quick Fact
children in ACS EarlyLearn programs


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Indians set AL record for consecutive winsBy JIM INGRAHAM
The Sports Xchange
September 13. 2017 11:54PM
CLEVELAND — For most of his team's march into history, Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona has tried the low-key approach with a daily turn-the-page mentality.
But after his team did something no team has done in the 117-year history of the American League, even Francona had to stop and acknowledge it.
"It's pretty special," he said on Wednesday.
Jay Bruce and Roberto Perez each homered as the Indians set an American League record with their 21st consecutive win in a 5-3 victory over the Detroit Tigers at Progressive Field.
The Indians are now tied with the 1935 Chicago Cubs for the second longest winning streak in major league history. The longest is 26 games by the 1916 New York Giants, although there was a tie game during that streak.
"Our guys are enjoying it, and they should," Francona said. "When you do something and do it the right way, you should enjoy it."
The Indians, who haven't lost since Aug. 23, have outscored their opponents 139-35 during the streak.
"We're not consumed by the streak," Bruce said. "What consumes us is coming to the park every day getting ready to play that game. Nothing else. I actually thought we were playing the Royals today."
Mike Clevinger (10-5) gave up one earned run in 5 2/3 innings to get the win. Cody Allen pitched the ninth inning to earn his 27th save.
Detroit starter Buck Farmer (4-3) gave up four runs in four innings and took the loss.
The Indians have trailed for just four of the 189 innings played during the streak. Indians starting pitchers during the streak are 19-0 with a 1.67 ERA.
"Everybody pretty much has had a hand in doing something," Francona said.
"It doesn't matter who we put out there," Bruce said. "We've got guys up from Double-A ball taking meaningful at bats."
The only earned run allowed by Clevinger came in the first inning, on a two-out RBI double by Jeimer Candelario.
It didn't take the Indians long to respond.
"I knew we were going to score. I was just trying to think about how I could make better pitches to hold the lead," Clevinger said.
With two outs and two on, Bruce hit a 1-1 pitch over the left field wall to give Cleveland a 3-1 lead.
Bruce, who was acquired from the Mets in a mid-season trade, has matched his career high with 34 home runs, five of them coming with the Indians.
"Nothing against the Mets, but I went from the least fun situation to the most fun," Bruce said.
The Indians scored again in a wild third inning in which Detroit manager Brad Ausmus and catcher James McCann were both ejected.
After an RBI single by Edwin Encarnacion made it a 4-1 Indians' lead, Bruce, the next hitter, took a close pitch for ball four. McCann said something to home plate umpire Quinn Wolcott, and was immediately ejected. Ausmus, who was on his way to the mound, detoured to the plate to continue the argument, and he, too, was tossed by Wolcott.
"I felt there was a discrepancy in the strike zone for the two teams. We weren't getting the calls they were," Ausmus said.
After a walk to Carlos Santana loaded the bases, with Yandy Diaz the batter, Farmer threw a fastball that catcher John Hicks missed. The ball hit Wolcott in the left shoulder, knocking him on his back.
After a brief delay, Wolcott remained in the game.
"Hicks got crossed up on the pitch; he assumed it would be a slider away, and Farmer threw a fastball," Ausmus said. "Plus, the bases were loaded. For anyone to imply that that was intentional, that's a lie. If one of our players tried to intentionally hurt an umpire, we would handle it, severely."
The Tigers knocked Clevinger out of the game in the sixth inning, scoring two unearned runs. Miguel Cabrera hit a grounder to third baseman Yandy Diaz, who threw wildly to first for an error, allowing Cabrera to reach second base.
Castellano followed with a double, scoring Cabrera to make it 4-2. Clevinger retired the next two hitters, but Andrew Romine lined a single to right, scoring Castellanos as Cleveland's lead shrunk to 4-3.
The Indians added an insurance run in the seventh inning when Perez hit an 0-2 offering from reliever Daniel Norris over the center field wall to make it a 5-3 Cleveland lead.


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Microsoft Office Excel cannot convert the PivotTable to formulas.
One or more filtered fields are not completely visible. To convert a cell to a formula, all items that are used in the formula must be visible.
To make the filtered fields completely visible, do one or more of the following:
Expand the entire field for all fields in levels above the filtered fields.
If grand totals are displayed, display the subtotals as well.
Then, try to convert the PivotTable cells to worksheet formulas again.
For more information, see Expand or collapse details in a PivotTable report or PivotChart report and Subtotal and total row and column labels in a PivotTable report.


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Until November 12, 2018, the hotel is closed for renovations.
Room rates include the accommodation of children (12 years old or younger) who sleep in the existing bedding of a guest room. Rollaway beds and cribs may incur extra charges.
Hotel does offer a waitlist. Contact hotel directly.
The hotel will charge 100% of the room rate if early check-in is before 7:00am hotel time. Please contact the hotel for further information.
An early departure fee may be imposed on guests departing prior to their scheduled departure date. Departure date must be confirmed at check-in to avoid an early departure fee. Please contact the hotel for further information.
Pets are allowed. Restrictions and deposit may apply.
Personal checks are not accepted.
Debit and Credit cards will be authorized at check-in for the amount of your stay, plus an amount to cover incidentals. The authorization will hold the funds until check out, at which time the amount actually incurred during the stay will be charged. Authorized amounts may take up to 30 days after departure to be released by your bank or financial institution and the hotel will not be responsible for any resulting fees or charges.
Rates confirmed in USD are guaranteed in U.S. dollars when paid in U.S. cash or traveler's checks. Payments made by credit cards at the hotel will be charged in the local currency equivalent based on the daily exchange rate used by the hotel. Currency conversions by banks or credit card companies in processing payments are not within the control of the hotel and are subject to exchange rate fluctuations.


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Below are archived testimonials from customers. For more recent reviews, please see our Google and Facebook pages.
"Your technician kindly pointed out everything that was wrong with the bike. You could have quite easily carried out the repairs and stung me for quite a bit of money and I really would have been none the wiser. Thank you so much for your thoroughness and honesty."
"Just wanted to thank you for the excellent job you've done on my Birdy. The mudguard and rack are better than I'd dared hope. Thanks again. We'll be back..."
"I must say that I am impressed with the amount of information about my bike that you gave me when I collected it yesterday. I've never had so much useful information written down before from a bike shop. Thanks. And the bike feels lovely."
"I had a dutch handle bar conversion done at Jake's, talk about the ultimate professional, spot on with the appointment times and a top job carried out with the utmost efficiency, I would recommend Jake's without any hesitation whatsoever. 10/10"
"I (along with two friends) recently attended two maintenance classes at Jake's Bikes. Jake is very friendly, patient and is an excellent teacher. He even gave us evening slots to fit around our work commitments. I commute by bike to and from work every day and now I feel confident enough to remove, replace and maintain the headset, bottom bracket, brakes and gears. During the maintenance classes, whenever Jake found something on my bike that wasn't working as it should, he would always try to fix it (and show me exactly how to ... READ MORE
Farrington Gurney
"Thanks so much for the two hour tuition you gave myself and my wife with regards some simple bike maitanence. It was great and we both feel confident to undertake some simple things but to also be aware of when things may need professional help. Have already recommended yourself to my friends who also ride."
"You serviced my bike today. I was just so amazed riding it back home, it felt as if it had been turbocharged. It just feels so good ride it, as good as new. Sorry for gushing, but thanks ever so much for the transformation. I'll very definitely be using you people in future."
"Rode back from Jake's Bikes with a big smile on my face. Rack, mudguards and lock all installed. They even gave me the right fitting for my existing front light. Happy customer!"
"I can't imagine a friendlier, more helpful service, the work is brilliant and so is the price"
"Just wanted to say how pleased I've been with the customer service at Jake's bikes - I bought a bike a few months ago and my girlfriend bought one today. Both times Yael talked us through the options amazingly well and gave us so much useful information. I will recommend Jake's to anyone who wants to buy a second hand bike in Bristol - best customer service in the city!"
"Just rode home like the wind on my (feels like) new bike. My front light doesn't even wobble about any more! Thank you to Jake's Bikes, it was worth every penny."
"Can I say that I felt that my experience with you yesterday was very good. Really appreciate your prompt, efficient, friendly service... thank you and well done"
"Very well priced. Jake took time out to help me fix my gears. Brilliant shop. Wholeheartedly recommended. :)"
"I LOVE MY BIKE! It's great, thanks so much. It's very comfortable and perfect for what I needed it for which is cycling around Bristol. It's also been good with a big trailer of stuff and for some longer bike rides. It's sturdy for carrying the shopping home... it's also good for cycling to work and around to home visits etc. in my normal clothes."
"The tuition yesterday left me with the confidence that I'll be able to tackle all routine maintenance by myself. I really enjoyed the ride home with crisper gears and better brakes - that I had help to do myself. Thanks again!"
"Just a quick word to say many thanks to Jake and Yael for turning the end of our trip into something more memorable!! The wheel is great... Thanks again, and good luck with your very interesting venture to get more of us cycling."
"This is brilliant, well done [on being nominated for a Bikebiz Award] Jake's Bikes! You are great, I so enjoyed coming to your tuition sessions and then your workshop on Thursday evenings for months while I did up my bike. You were so helpful and almost as interested as I was in my little project! Thanks so much and you deserve to win - good luck!"
"Just how a bicycle shop should be - lots of great advice, a good range of products. They have just fitted a rack and some superb pannier bags to my commuting bike. The whole process was a pleasure - from help in picking the right equipment through to leaving the bike with them for collection later with all the products fitted. Brilliant, friendly and honest bike advice right in the centre of Bristol."
"Just wanted to thank you for doing a really good job with my bike yesterday. I could really tell the difference when I cycled it home, it feels so much smoother and easier to ride and my new knowledge of the gear workings is a big help!!"
"Thanks for your help and advice on Thursday. Really useful as always. If only every £20 I spend was as good value!"
"I just wanted to say thanks for the tuition on Saturday - despite being hungover I learnt tons. The bike is running like a dream too!"
Brecon Beacons
"I bought this bike to use around the brecon beacons. Excellent machine. Fantastic value for money. Quality 531 frame and components for a fantastic price. Would certainly recommend buying from Jakes bikes"
"I REALLY enjoyed riding home on my new bike today - like Christmas had come early! Thanks again for my wonderful bike!"
"I've been meaning to thank you for sorting the bike. Mmmm, fresh gears, I forgot how good it felt. And working on it with you was good fun."
"Jake is a genuine individual who wants to help you spend as little as possible on repairs of your bike [ed: no wonder I'm not making any money!!! - jake], helps you to undertake basic repair yourself, engages with you on a personal level and is most importantly the most switched on bike mechanic ever. I met Jake after knocking the quick release on my rear wheel causing a lot of damage when the wheel came off and the bike hit the deck. Thinking it would cost a bomb i contemplated buying a new bike until Jake quoted me a ... READ MORE
"Jake's Bikes is an amazing store, the best bicycle shop I have ever been in by a long way. I recommend anyone who wants a bike to see what Jake's Bikes has to offer. The staff are friendly, honest and open. I felt I could talk about what I wanted without a barrage of sales pitches. Discussion with Jake allowed me to narrow down how to acquire what I was after: A fast, reliable, second-hand tourer, within a budget of £500. Basically I wanted a bike for life; a long term investment that would keep on repaying me every time ... READ MORE
"I'm getting way less pain in the shoulders and neck, the handlebars you fitted are great... The seat is also bonzer and has almost completely put a stop to Dead Rear Syndrome. In all, I think you have done a *great* job and I wanted to say thank you. I know that if you hadn't modified the bike for me, I would never have been able to ride it again."
Aberystwyth, Mid Wales
"When Jake and I started off discussing what I needed for my ideal bike, I wanted a high-quality but tatty usable bike, with all the best bits from Danish designs for everyday transport, and the gears and brakes from the mountain-bike world. Little did I expect that Jake would find me a second hand but unused frame with perfect geometry for me (long legs and chronic neck pain). Jake haggled the price down for me and began to build my perfect bike. After finding such a beautiful frame, it seemed churlish to have tatty mudguards and wheels, so Jake built ... READ MORE
"My bike was almost unrideable before Jake (and his magic cycle fingers) came along. Thanks for fixing it up for me, and at a very reasonable price. I would highly recommend you to anyone"
"My second-hand bike was sourced and adapted by Jake to suit my cycling style and needs in Bristol, and it's been great ever since I got it a year and a half ago. He adapted the gears so that even I can get up the hills of Bristol and added the vital basket and bell that I really wanted. Jake still provides all the routine maintenance on my bike and has been great."


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RightSource is Humana's mail order pharmacy. Users create an online account and can log in to have prescriptions filled and speak to a pharmacist without leaving the house.Continue Reading
RightSource allows users to fill prescriptions for three months at a time. Pharmacists are also available to speak to online or by phone, and to review each new prescription for accuracy and possible contraindications. Additionally, pharmacists are able to compare prescriptions to a drug catalog photo. New prescriptions and refills are delivered by mail and are sent to and from Cincinnati in containers sealed by foil. Users can have their doctors call in prescriptions for them.Learn more about Social Services


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Disneyland California vacation planning guide. Plan your Disney vacation to Orange County including shopping, Los Angeles attractions and San Diego beaches. Discount #Disneytickets with other attractions. Find Disney Secrets on Fast Passes and Anaheim hotel deals to help you plan your summer #vacation.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Top 10 Kid Friendly Attractions at Disneyland
Here is our list of the top 10 attractions in both Disneyland and California Adventure that are kid friendly. (see our list of NOT kid friendly attractions at the bottom)
1. Fantasyland - pretty much all of the rides in Fatasyland are kid friendly. Snow White can be a bit scary at times during the ride. Dumbo and Peter Pan are the most popular. The castle has been re-done to add more special affects.
2. Tiki Room - Kids love anything with music. Young kids think the bird are real and that it's really raining.
3. Aladdin Show - In the Hyperion Theater in CA the Aladin show is very funny and kid friendly
4. Crush the Turtle - Located in the Animation building in the Hollywood section of California Adventure, kids love interacting with Crush the Turtle in real time. This is always funny and fun for kids and adults too.
5. Small World - Since it has been updated it's a lot of fun to see in you can find the new characters in each section.
6. Toy Story Mania - this is easy for kids of all ages to play. The line is usually 45 minutes or more so be prepared to wait.
7. Buzz Lightyear Astro Blaster - its fun but it's hard for younger kids to hit the targets with the laser to gain points. Never the less it's just a great ride.
8. Autopia - kids love to drive. They may not be able to reach the peddle but they can steer.
9. Nemo's Submarine Voyage - this is the new submarine ride with very cool special effects inside and outside the sub.
10. Monsters Inc. - this ride is fun for all ages. Takes you on a taxi ride through Monstropolis. At the end Roz ask questions of a personal nature, which an interactive element.
Young children usually find the following attractions a bit scary. Our recommendation is that if you want your child to enjoy the day don't start off with one these attractions, build them up to it or go on them last. If you take them on an easy roller coaster such as Chip and Dale, then Thunder Mountain, then they may be ready for Space Mountain or the Matterhorn later in the day.
Young kids usually 6 and under may NOT like these rides as they have scary elements.
Indiana Jones - fire and snakes
Haunted Mansion - ghosts
Space Mountain - flashing lights and darkness
Splash Mountain - big drop
Matterhorn - abominable snowmen
Pirates of the Caribbean - dark drops and scary skeletons ( I have seen young kids hold on to the corral chains at the entrance Screaming No No No! while parents try to pull them onto the ride.)
Posted by Anaheim Visitors Guide at 11:01 PM
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In writing this post, my intention was to use a recent post by Austin Cline as a springboard for addressing atheist identity and the cohesiveness (or lack thereof) in the atheist movement. I did not mean to imply that Austin himself was attempting to classify people into "real atheist" and "Uncle Tom atheist" categories. Those who read his post realized that this was not at all what he was saying.
The mistake I made was in simply referencing his post and then assuming that those discussing it in the comment thread would have all read it as I did. This was an absurd expectation on my part, and I failed to frame Austin's post appropriately. Moreover, the title of my post was a poor choice in this context. The question of who deserves to be called "a real atheist" was mine and not his.
Some of those who commented on my post merged my question with Austin's post and then criticized him for something he never stated. My apologies to Austin and to my readers. I botched this one by leaving too much to the inference of my readers and failing to frame the discussion clearly.
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Due to the popularity of my post Pinterest – Turning Procrastination into Classroom Preparation, I've decided to follow up with ways to use Pinterest with students. When using Pinterest, keep in mind that not all pins are safe and secure, and monitoring will be necessary to ensure students don't stumble upon inappropriate content. Nonetheless, Pinterest provides some creative opportunities in the classroom, and could be a great method for instruction, collaboration, and classroom projects.
Here are 10 ways to use Pinterest with your students, including some example boards online:
- RESEARCH BOARDS – have students create boards for different classroom research topics/assignments where they can pin relevant articles, images and videos
- HISTORICAL FIGURES PRESENTATION – have students use a board as an online poster with pins to online content and images relating to a famous historical figure; then present them in class
- ONLINE BIBLIOGRAPHY – have younger students create pins of all of their online references and add as a link to websites, presentations, or blogs in lieu of a formal works cited
- GROUP COLLABORATION – have students create a board that multiple users can post on (see how to do this here) and then use it for group collaboration or team projects
- CLASS BOARD – create one board for the class where students can post interesting articles, images, and videos they find at home relating to classwork
- COLLEGE PLANNING – have students research a college they plan on attending by using different boards for each college and pinning relevant information like mascots, dorm pictures, virtual tours, famous alumni, etc.
- DECADES BOARDS – have students research specific decades and create boards that visually reflect the important people, trends and culture of that time period
- CLASSROOM MUSIC BOARD – if you ever play music while students work or write, create a board where students can pin their favorite songs and artists so you can use their favorite music in class (remember to check to make sure their suggestions are language and theme appropriate first!)
- PROJECT SIGNUP BOARDS – have students visually signup for projects by posting a pin of an image with their name as the caption; for example, if you are assigning students to study individual countries, students would post a picture of their country with their name as a caption
- CLASS PARTY/EVENT PLANNING – if you are trying to divide up duties or food assignments for a class party, use a board to have students claim responsibility for individual items so everyone knows who is doing what; for example, one student might post a picture of pizza with their name as a caption to claim responsibility for bringing pizza while another posts a picture of balloons to signup for bringing balloons to the event
Hope these 10 ways can help you incorporate Pinterest into your classroom! If you have any other ideas, please post them so we can add to this list! Happy pinning all 🙂


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Walk No. 6
For similar walks try:
| Heritage |
Beyond each filigree gate and behind every manicured hedge there are stories to tell; crumbling walls, terraces reclaimed by ivy, hidden dolmen, and an ancient manor house with a visit to a Jersey herd of young cows. Discover the adventurers of pioneers and artists, peacocks and red squirrels around every corner of this beautiful parish. All this within sight of our French "cousins" on the coast line of Normandy.
Duration & distance
This walk is approximately 4 miles and should take about 3.5 hours.
Time of day & season
Wednesday 1400 to 1740 hours. Rozel Hidden Surprises is a spring walk.
Route #3 from Rozel Valley.
Rozel Hidden Surprises covers the following categories:-
|Heritage, Scenic, Photographic delights.
Moderate walk with hills.
Each walk can be reserved as a Private Walk or you can put your name down for a Shared Walk.
Here are 3 views you might see from this walk (show all 10 views):
|<< Walk No. 5
|Walk No. 7 >>


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A motorway junction has been partially closed as emergency services investigate a chemical spillage in Rochdale.
Specialist hazardous waste officers have joined police and Highways Agency on the scene near Thornham Island on the A627M.
The fire service were called to the incident at around 12.15pm. It is understood a lorry has shed around 20 chemical bags which are marked 'toxic'.
Some of the bags have been split after being hit by cars and yellow powder is now in the carriageway.
Experts have now established that the chemical is road paint, which is not harmful to humans.
Officers are also examining CCTV in an attempt to trace the vehicle which shed its load.
The M62 westbound access from Thornham Island and north side of Thornham Island from Weighbridge is currently closed.
It will remain closed until Highways Agency officers are able to fully clean up the spill.


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Long before it was taken over by a trio of brothers who repurposed it as a senior center, the Melting Pot in West Scranton served as a warm gathering spot for parties, banquets and special occasions.
Under a new moniker, the Melting Pot Intercultural Activity Center, the Washburn Avenue venue now welcomes guests 60 and older for daily activities as well as free lunches. The cuisine centers on Western Indian and American vegetarian styles while also complying with nutrition standards state and county agencies set.
Area business owners Ashwin and Achyut "Eddie" Dalsania used to host local fellow Hindus five or six times a year for religious celebrations at their homes in Clarks Summit and Scranton. There, their wives, Bhavna and Sonal, cooked sumptuous feasts of traditional food for their guests.
The gatherings grew so large that they decided to buy a building, leading them to the Melting Pot. It took an additional year and a half to earn the clearance and accreditation needed to become an official county senior center, but when they finally opened the site's doors in July, the brothers knew it was worth the effort and personal expense.
"We wanted to do this for a long time," Ashwin Dalsania said. "So many people came and were so energetic. We are happy to do something for the community."
While a majority of the 35 to 80 daily visitors at the multicultural center are Indian, people of all faiths and ethnicities are welcome as long as they or their spouse are over 60. In addition to the free meals (still prepared by Bhavna and Sonal Dalsania) served Mondays through Fridays starting at noon, the Melting Pot offers a variety of activities for seniors, including computer classes, crafts, chair exercises, English as a Second Language classes, yoga, chorus and musical chimes lessons. A third brother, Dr. Atul Dalsania, a local internist, often comes in to do private health screenings.
The Dalsanias brought on Jeanne Hugenbruch as center director, and her decades of experience — including a stint as director of aging services for United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA and other area senior centers, such as Dunmore's — guides their programming and services.
"It's almost like a throwback to when I first started (working in the field), because it was a large immigrant population, but from Europe then," Hugenbruch said.
Since joining the Melting Pot's team, she has witnessed the positive effect it's had on people she used to see in Dunmore who now feel at home in the new space.
In Dunmore, Hugenbruch watched as many Hindu seniors passed on eating canned fruits or processed foods, such as white bread, offered on the daily menu. And since it also was against their beliefs to waste food, she was saddened to see many of the guests take the bare minimum so as not to go hungry.
"They weren't asking for seconds, like they do here," she said with a smile.
The center's September menu boasts a range of vegetarian delights made from scratch using only fresh ingredients, including Falafel, Gujarati Dal with Curried Vegetables, Indian Soft Tacos with Corn and Black Bean Salad, Khatta Dhokla with Chutney (made with ground rice and beans formed into patties) and Chana Masala (a type of chickpea-based curry dish). Soft Indian teas and coffees prepared with sugar and milk complement the spices and flavors found in the food.
The center plans to hold a grand opening celebration Friday, Sept. 29, when Pennsylvania Secretary of Aging Teresa Osborne will be among honored guests invited to sample the cuisine and enjoy entertainment, but the honor of serving the seniors is what motivates its keepers day after day, they said.
The Dalsania brothers see the dramatic changes in their own 86-year-old mother, whose health and happiness improved as she found camaraderie in her daily visits.
"I used to tuck her in five or six times at night, but now that she's more active, there's no depression, she's cut down on medications and sleeps better," Eddie Dalsania said. "She's our example. We have so much pride to do something for people who cannot express themselves otherwise. This is just the beginning of great things, and it was well worth it. Our goal is to make it the No. 1 center in the state of Pennsylvania."
Hugenbruch finds the Melting Pot's name a promising sign of a trend she hopes grows as the multicultural center gains an even bigger neighborhood following.
"The culture is extremely fascinating. I'm really looking forward to integrating with different populations," she said. "Life's too short. You should experience all you can of different foods and people."
Contact the writer: firstname.lastname@example.com; 570-348-9100 x5369; @pwildingTT on Twitter
The Melting Pot Intercultural Activity Center
Address: 2119 Washburn St., Scranton
Phone: 570-703-0582
Hours: The center is open Mondays through Fridays, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., with lunch served starting at noon.
Cuisine: Western Indian and American vegetarian
Established: July 2017
Online: Visit meltingpotinterculturalcenter.org or the center's Facebook page. The monthly calendar and menu also are posted on the county's website.


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Custom Search
Combination-Picket Holdfast
A COMBINATION-PICKET holdfast consists of two or more pickets. Figure 6-2 gives you an idea of how to arrange pickets in constructing a 1-1-1 and a 3-2-1 combination-picket holdfast.
In constructing the 1-1-1 combination, drive three single pickets about 3 feet (0.9 meter) into the ground, 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters) apart, and in line with the guy. For a 3-2-1 combination, drive a group of three pickets into the ground, lashing them together before you secure the guy to them. The group of two lashed pickets follows the first group, 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters) apart, and is followed by a single picket. The 1-1-1 combination can stand a pull of about 1,800 pounds (810 kilograms), while the 3-2-1 combination can stand as much as 4,000 pounds (1,800 kilograms).
The combination of the pickets grouped and lashed together and the small stuff secured onto every pair of pickets makes the combinationpicket holdfasts much stronger than the singlepicket holdfasts.
The reason for grouping and lashing the first cluster of pickets together is to reinforce the point where the pull is the greatest. The small stuff links each picket to the next, thereby dividing the force of pull so that the first picket will not have to stand all of the strain. Using 12- to 15-thread small stuff, clove hitch it to the top of the first picket. Then, take about four to six turns around the first and second pickets, going from the bottom of the second to the top of the first picket. Repeat this with more small stuff from the second to the third picket, and so on, until the last picket has been secured. After this, pass a stake between the turns of small stuff, between EACH pair of pickets, and then make the small stuff taut by twisting it with the stake. Now, drive the stake into the ground.
If you are going to use a picket holdfast for several days, it is best to use galvanized guy wire in place of the small stuff. Rain will not affect galvanized guy wire, but it will cause small stuff to shrink. If the small stuff is already taut, it could break from overstrain. If you HAVE TO use small stuff, be sure to slack it off before leaving it overnight. You do this by pulling the stake up, untwisting the small stuff once, and then replacing the stake.
Combination-Log-Picket Holdfast
For heavy loads or in soft- or wet-earth areas, a COMBINATION-LOG-PICKET holdfast is frequently used. With this type, the guys are anchored to a log or timber supported against four or six combination-picket holdfasts. (See fig. 6-3.) The timber serves as a beam and has to be placed so that it bears evenly against the front row of the pickets. Since the holding power of this setup depends on the strength of the timber and anchor line as well as the holdfast, be sure to use a timber big enough and an anchor line strong enough to stand the pull.
Rock Holdfast
ROCK holdfasts are made by inserting pipes, crowbars, or steel pickets in holes drilled in solid
Figure 6-2.Å\Combination-picket holdfast: A. 1-1-1 combination, B. 3-2-1 combination.
Figure 6-3.Å\Combination-log-picket holdfast.
rock. Using a star drill, drill holes in the rock 1 1/2 to 3 feet (75 to 90 centimeters) apart, keeping them in line with the guy. Remember to drill the holes at a slight angle so that the pickets will lean away from the direction of pull. Make the front hole about 1 1/2 to 3 feet (75 to 90 centimeters) deep and the rear hole 2 feet (60 centimeters) deep (fig. 6-4). After driving pickets into the holes, secure the guy to the front picket. Then, lash the pickets together with chain or wire rope to transmit the load.


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Wicklow is known as the 'Garden of Ireland', and one look at the place will tell you why. Nothing but lush green fields, wooded hills, and delightful small villages make up this county. To boot, it also boasts the magnificent glacial valley and monastic settlement of Glendalough, the stunning Wicklow Mountains that just beg to be hiked through, and the charming woodland village of Avoca, whos small shop of handicrafts now has branches all over Ireland.
Known as 'the Kingdom', Kerry is the heart of ancient Ireland and still the most stunning spot on the island. From quaint seaside villages like Dingle (where a dolphin voluntarily puts on a show for the boats every afternoon) to the busy tourist spot of Killarney, not to mention one of the most breathtaking road trips in Europe, the Ring of Kerry, and the simply astounding Killarney National Park a visit to Kerry is unforgettable.
Stay at Ballyroe Heights Hotel or Similar or hand selected Bed and Breakfast
From the out of this world limestone plains of the Burren and the misty, magical Cliffs of Moher to the golden beaches and buzzing towns and villages, Clare is a county not to be missed on your Ireland holiday. Whether you want to relax and enjoy the fresh sea breeze in bustling Kilkee or Ballyvaughan or explore the spooky underworld of the Aillwee Caves and other hair-rising activities, Clare really does have it all.
Stay at The Inn at Dromoland or Similar or hand selected Bed and Breakfast
Galway is the wild west of Ireland at its best. Rugged coastlines, dramatic hills and valleys, isolated islands, emerald fields and towns filled with traditional music, dancing, and language. Galway city is a tangle of cobbled streets, cosy pubs and mouth watering restaurants, the magnificent Connemara landscape is just a short drive away and the traditional Gaelic community of the Aran Islands are reachable with a quick boat trip too, although they both seem a world away.
Stay at The Salthill Hotel or Similar or hand selected Bed and Breakfast
It's impossible not to fall in love with Dublin's stately Georgian houses, gregarious locals, laid back lifestyle and yes, even the rainy weather! This incredible city has a lifetime's worth of attractions, so don't be surprised if you want to come back as soon as you leave. Just some of the must-do's include pouring a pint of the 'black stuff' at the Guinness Storehouse, viewing the Book of Kells, and people watching on Grafton Street from Bewley's Cafe.
Stay at Croke Park hotel or Similar or hand selected Bed and Breakfast


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The Pawstry Chef
The Pawstry Chef creates delicous dog biscuits for the – get this "expert whinemaker" in your house. Now, come on. How could you not get these for your dog after you see such clever wordsmithing? Whine Stoppers come in several fun flavours such as Barko Noir, Bonejolais, Shar-Peigne, Pinot Grrrigio and more. All use organic ingredients and come in resealable, recyclable bags. You can find Pawstry Chef biscuits at retailers across Canada, or online at K9Excel.


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Stifling sobs, Oscar Pistorius took to the witness stand for the first time in his murder trial and apologised to the family of the girlfriend he shot dead.
The Olympian described himself as traumatised and now on antidepressant medication, saying he sometimes woke from nightmares to the "smell of blood" since shooting his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp on February 14 2013.
Pistorius' voice quavered so much and was so low at the start of his testimony that Judge Thokozile Masipa asked him to speak up as he addressed a packed courtroom.
Pistorius said he mistook her for an intruder when he fired four times through a locked toilet stall door in his home. Prosecutors said the double-amputee shot his lover as she screamed in terror after they had an argument in the pre-dawn hours of Valentine's Day.
"There hasn't been a moment since this tragedy happened that I haven't thought about your family," the star athlete said as Ms Steenkamp's mother, June, looked straight at him in the courtroom, stone-faced.
"I wake up every morning and you're the first people I think of, the first people I pray for ... I was simply trying to protect Reeva. I can promise that when she went to bed that night she felt loved," Pistorius said after asking for permission to make the apology at the start of his testimony.
Prosecutors allege Pistorius, 27, murdered the 29-year-old model with premeditation by shooting her in the head, arm and hip after an argument and have sought to paint him as a hothead with an inflated sense of entitlement and an obsession with firearms.
Defence lawyer Barry Roux says the disabled runner mistook his girlfriend for an intruder and shot at the bathroom door in self defence.


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OT - Moving to Detroit
This has kind of been a long time coming for me, but I just accepted an offer to come work for an advertising agency in Dearborn, and I will be moving to Detroit from Cleveland. I'm from Michigan originally, but have never lived in southeast Michigan. I was wondering if anyone who lives in the area could give advice on where to live, any nice apartments, etc.
I've been strongly considering moving downtown. I've looked at a couple apartments that look pretty cool, and it might be fun to have a downtown lifestyle. However, I don't want to get stabbed.
I've also considered Ann Arbor, but I'm not sure how much I would enjoy the commute from AA to Dearborn everyday on 94.
Anyways, thanks in advance for any tips or advice you can give. They are greatly appreciated.