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This past week has been a flurry of activity preparing for my upcoming trip. The most immediate task was packing my gear for Antarctica. For this project we are collecting a variety of samples. Some samples will be of rocks, looking for microbes that can thrive inside the rocks. There are also frozen lakes in the area and I hope to be able to drill a hole in the ice to sample the water underneath. Additionally, we hope to collect snow and ice samples, as microbes can live there too. Finally, we will also attempt to collect pockets of dark colored material where microbes like to live in the ice. Because of the wide variety of samples that we plan to take, this also requires a wide variety of sampling gear.
My science luggage consists of three well-insulated coolers and smaller instrument case. I chose the very fashionable and hard to miss colour of hot pink for the coolers. While I would normally gravitate towards black or a more understated colour, I figured they would be easy to spot on the luggage carousel and on a cargo palette. One cooler is filled with water sampling gear (clean bottles, filtering apparatus, hand pump), another cooler is filled with gear to collect samples of ice (gloves, ice picks, notebooks, sampling bags, scoops, etc), and finally the third cooler is mainly empty apart from some sampling gear (rock hammer and chisel, pH meters, thermometer). The smaller instrument case contains a drone because I hope to be able to collect some useful aerial footage of our sampling sites to share with you later. Being a good citizen of my current university that loves the school mascot, I also packed a small mascot for photo opportunities later. I may or may not have also packed a rubber chicken because you never know when you might need a rubber chicken.
A new-to-me piece of "equipment" I am excited to take on this journey is an infrared thermometer. Using this thermometer we can measure the temperature of the rock, ice or water simply by pointing the laser at it. Just to test it out, I measured both the temperature of my dog and my lab freezer accurately!
While there were many administrative things to take care (due to being out of the office for five weeks), the major thing that I took care of this week was getting an all clear from an endodontist. In my last post, I mentioned how I needed to have a thorough medical exam before I was cleared to travel to Antarctica. Well, once I was medically cleared I had a dental accident. The week before Christmas, I cracked a molar while eating popcorn. Luckily, I was able to get the molar repaired within 48 hours. However, as the trip approached, so did my general stress level increased and this led to some teeth clenching. This past week I started developed tooth pain that also involved some sensitivity to cold and sweets. Did this mean that the cracked tooth had become infected? Bless my dentist's heart for being patient with my impromptu visit to his office this past Tuesday morning about the integrity of my filling. Sensing my worry, my regular dentist got me an appointment with an endodontist. Long story short, I ended up seeing the endodontist today, the last business day before I was scheduled to fly away on this journey. If I ever need to get a root canal, I now know who to see. The endodontist evaluated my teeth, determined that they were normal** and then, because I was obviously overanalyzing my "symptoms", he went on to spend the next 30 minutes showing me data from other patients to reassure me that it will be OK. I learned a lot from him today and he made me feel a lot better. Thank you Drs. Gillespie and Brantley!
So tomorrow I will pack the boxes for the last time, pack my duffel bag of personal gear, and say my final farewells before I start my journey on Sunday.
**That said, I am travelling with a 10 day supply of antibiotics and some prescription strength pain medication, just in case things go awry!


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Manishka knitting needles for a child: nuances in knitting
- Knitting Bachelorette
- Tips for making mannies for children
- Patterns of patterns for the front man
- Video: We knit a baby shirt front
Manishka is an interesting and practical accessory,Able to decorate the child's winter wardrobe. It is designed to protect the baby's chest and throat from winter colds. There are many ways how to tie a shirt. Most masters use knitting needles for this. Their differences are only in the technique of execution and the methods of knitting.
It is enough simply to tie the front of the baby to the baby, soAs its dimensions are small. It consists of a mantle and a neck. In the front part, the product is usually slightly elongated. The width of the arm is equal to or slightly less than the width of the shoulder. The throat surrounds the neck quite tightly, and its height is usually up to the middle of the chin.
Knitting Bachelorette
For a child can be connected in three different ways. The first way is to start knitting from the neck and then follow down to the shoulder strap. Equipment
Perfect for beginner needlewomen. For the second method, you can also use the technique of knitting in a circle. In this case, start from the outer edge of the shoulder strap and move upwards. The third way is to start from the shoulder and then move in circular rows (the abbreviation P is applied hereinafter).
In order for the shirt-front shirt to be seamless,You can use circular or stocking knitting needles. If the scheme assumes the presence of a seam, you can sew a zipper into it or make loops (shorten P) and sew in buttons. It will be interesting to look like a shirt for a girl. You can tie the mantle and collar separately, and then sew them together.
Calculation of hinges for the neck
We knit a small sample. The pattern is the same as that used for the shirt-front. We measure it at maximum tension and in a calm state. We divide the second indicator by the first. Thus, we know the coefficient of stretching of the sample. We measure the head of the child, more precisely - its circumference. The index is multiplied by the coefficient obtained in the first step. The result should be added 3 cm. The obtained value is the necessary circle of the product throat. We use a control sample to calculate the density of knitting - that is, we count how many centimeters of the sample contains P. Multiplying the result by the circumference of the neck obtained at the previous step, we get the number of P that is required to be typed.
Video: Knitting for Beginners
Choose a pattern
For beginners, you can advise the schemeChildren's shirt-front - it's much easier to make than an adult. The first thing that needs to be done is to choose a pattern according to the sex of the child. Knitting for children is always interesting. Girls are more suited to a scheme with flounces or ruffles. You can use all kinds of weaves, lace or openwork drawings. For the boy choose interesting drawings, to tie them to the usual smooth surface will not be difficult even to inexperienced knitters. Scandinavian patterns will be a decoration for children of any age and sex.
Boys will not be approached with complicated knitting patterns, which,Undoubtedly, will benefit the inexperienced skilled workers. The master class is quite simple in execution. For the gate is assumed a pattern of knitting with an elastic band of three by three dots. Therefore, it must be taken into account that the dialed number П should be divisible by 6.
Knitting of the neck occurs on four spokes,The length of it does not reach the desired value. Now you can go to the shoulder strap, knit it a bit harder. The first two P are usually knit. In the third P, one by one, we make an increase in front of the face loops (LP) and after them, that is, from one purl. Two knits are loosened. Knitting is stopped when the size reaches the plan.
Manishka usually requires more effort from his mother, if it is created for the girl. It can be decorated around the edges of a beautiful fringe or lace pattern, knitted or crocheted.
The standard scheme is simple, the master is alwaysWill try to make the product more interesting. The child will have to like a delicate knitted article, as in the photo. The main feature of this knitting is the use of shortened R.
Another simple scheme for beginner needlewomen. It's very easy to show a class and surprise everyone with a simple and spectacular thing.
The neck of the article is knitted with an elastic band 1X1. The height depends on the measurements taken earlier. You can tie 10 cm or more, make a neck with a bend or a single P. Next - the first circle is knitted according to the scheme 2 PI, 10 LP. Second circle - nakid, 2 IP (purl loops), nakid, 10 persons. And so to the end of R. The third circle - we bind the LP (we need to knit behind the wall from the back) from the cusp of the previous P, 2 PI, again, from the mantle obtained from the previous P, the LP is loosened, then - 10 persons .. And so, until it ends P. Then repeat the pattern from the first circle until the length of the product reaches the desired size.
How to decorate a car Spokes are much easierTo connect an unusual and interesting shirt-front. For girls on the older age, an important role is played by jewelry. If the scheme with a description of the complex technique of knitting you can not do it, you can decorate the finished product with fringe. Children's fringed thing will become an ornament of the wardrobe of any modern girl.
It is interesting to see a product created by combining knitting techniques with knitting needles and crochet.
Tips for making mannies for children
Anything a child should be in a time. Therefore, start knitting with fairly accurate measurements. In no case should bunny tighten the neck of the child too tightly. Knit should be free - the elastic of the neck should be free and pleasant to wear.
If the child is small and can not independentlyDress and spread your clothes, the shoulder strap should not be knit longer than the shoulders. In this case, it will not stray and curl under the clothes. Spokes can easily decorate clothes with different patterns. It will bring great joy to the child.
Patterns of patterns for the front man
For a boy of 2-3 years the following scheme of the front man is perfect. For its production it is necessary to purchase woolen yarn. The master class is simple in execution.
We start with a set of 10 П on spokes. We knit them with any viscous, after two P add 2 P. We do this with the help of nakids, usually at the end of P. We knit until the number of loops. In P will not reach the number 32. By this time, the size of the canvas will be about 15 cm.
Then, knitting another 6 cmCanvases. After that, on a separate spoke or pin, "throw" 14 P in the middle. We continue knitting the knitting needles of the two canvases separately from each other. It should be rounded off the sides. To do this, we need to P through P together. Thus we knit about 13 cm of cloth. After that, close in the shoulder area of 3 P. Thus, it turned back and in front of the product. On the circular knitting needles, we transfer Π from the middle of the knitting. Continue to knit the neck to the desired size. It remains only to sew the shoulder seams together and the shirt for the boy is ready.
The stocking pattern is perfect for the front man. Knit his knitting needles. He will be able to even a professional knitter, with his description, we now get acquainted. Odd P from the 1st to the 9th knit according to the scheme: 3 IP, 1 add, 25 LP, two together as front, 18 LP, then again two П together, LP - 25 pieces, 1 add and three again at the end. Even P we bind the IP. 10 Р knit by the scheme: ИП - 3pcs, persons - 26 pcs, ИП -20 pcs., Persons 26 pcs., ИП -3 шт. Beginning with 11 Р the drawing is repeated as from the 1st P.
The size of the shirtboy depends on the age of the child. We knit from 15 to 20 cm in this scheme, then go to the rack. If the rack is circular without seams and buttons, then it is knitted on circular knitting needles.
For children 1,5-2 years old the followingKnitting scheme. In the usual way, you need to type 72 P on the stocking knitting needles. Knit will be on 4 spokes, so P is evenly distributed over them. We use a rubber band to fill the neck with a length of 7-8 cm. Then, 4-6 Р should be fastened with LP. Next, proceed to the shoulder. At the front and back we assign 22 P, on the right and left shoulder - 12 P. At the junction of the parts of the shoulder strap, there will be raglan. We continue knitting.
From the side of the Raglanov we add by P. one P. We try to tie the surplus loops so that no holes remain. For this, under the broach we grab the working thread with the right knitting needle, transfer it to the left knitting needle and tie it.
The children's shirt, decorated with a pattern "rhombus" on the canvas and the back, looks simple and tasteful. The wizard will perform this pattern very simply. Another rhombus is somewhat more complicated in execution.
Video: We knit a baby shirt front

subset: commoncrawl


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Arizona is a state in the southwestern region of the United States. It became a part of the country as a territory in 1863 and achieved statehood on February 14th, 1912.
As a part of America's "Sun Belt," Arizona has always been a destination for people looking to take advantage of its arid, warm climate. The state's low humidity level has positive effects on chronic diseases like asthma, arthritis, bronchitis, and osteoporosis. The state's ideal geography also makes it the home of the Grand Canyon, and the Colorado River gorge that is considered one of the Wonders of the World. The site hosts over six million visitors every year.
Arizona has seen a steady population growth since the 1950s, which led to the rapid growth of sprawling suburbs around cities like Tucson and Phoenix, which is now the 5th largest city in America. Arizona is the 14th largest state by population, home to more than 7.1 million people. Within the past decade, Arizona has increased by more than 12%.
Top 10 Cities in Arizona (by population)
- Phoenix 1,608,139
- Tucson 542,629
- Mesa 504,258
- Chandler 275,987
- Gilbert 267,918
- Glendale 248,325
- Scottsdale 241,361
- Peoria 190,985
- Tempe 180,587
- Surprise 143,148
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the state has an employment rate of 56%, with a median household income of around $62,000. Major employers in Arizona include the education, healthcare, retail, and financial services industries.
Personal Loans in Arizona
Arizona residents have options for loans from banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions. Among them, personal loans are some of the most versatile loans available. Simply put, a personal loan is a loan that can be used for any purpose the borrower sees fit. Personal loans are installment loans that you repay in fixed amounts over time. Typically, these installment payments are due every month.
Types of Personal Loans in Arizona
People can get personal loans to cover various expenses, and different needs call for different types of loans.
Secured and Unsecured Personal Loans
Personal loans in Arizona can come in two different forms. The ideal personal loan depends on the borrower's needs and how much money they want to borrow. The two basic types of personal loans are secured and unsecured.
Secured Personal Loan
A secured personal loan needs collateral. Collateral is property owned by the borrower. Collateral is like a piece of insurance for the lender. If you can't repay the loan, the lender may take your collateral to sell and recoup the money they lost lending to you. However, collateral lowers the loan's risk, so lenders can provide installment loans with fixed rates and flexible payment plans. Mortgages and car loans are good examples of secured personal loans.
Unsecured Personal Loan
Unlike secured loans, unsecured personal loans do not require collateral. It is a loan backed by your creditworthiness. That means that unsecured loan approval will largely depend on your credit score and credit history. Since they are a higher risk to the lender, unsecured installment loans have tighter loan terms and higher interest rates. Student loans are one of the best examples of an unsecured loan.
How Credit Scores affect Personal Loans in Arizona
While personal loan options can vary from state to state, the best personal loans depend on your credit score.
What Is a Credit Score?
Your credit score is a number that rates your overall creditworthiness or ability to repay debt responsibly. All of your creditors (utility companies, lenders, credit card issuers, etc.) report your financial behavior to data collection companies called credit bureaus. These credit bureaus use this information to calculate your credit score. A credit score typically ranges from 300-850.
Good Credit vs. Bad Credit
People with fair to excellent credit (a score of 650 or above) are seen as low risk, as they have consistently managed debt well and made payments on time. That means that they can find the best personal loans—ones that have good loan terms with low-interest rates.
On the other hand, a person with bad credit is usually seen as a higher risk, as their credit history may show a record of late or delinquent payments. Because of that fact, a less-than-perfect history can affect your options for a personal loan.
How to Take Out a Personal Loan in Arizona
To get a personal loan in Arizona, you need to fill out an application with the lender of your choice. Each lender uses their criteria to decide if they want to approve or deny your application. You should consider any potential lender carefully. Before you apply for any loan, take a look at any information you can find about application fees and interest rates—these fees increase any loan amount you need. While some loan approval decisions take days to process, some lenders provide instant approval for personal loans.
When a loan is approved, the lender will give a loan agreement that explains the loan terms. These terms are essentially the rules by which you must agree to follow in exchange for the loan amount. The significant parts of the loan term will include the monthly payment amount, schedule for repayment, and the loan's Annual percentage rate (APR).
After you accept the terms and sign the loan agreement, your lender will either send you a check for the loan proceeds or transfer the loan amount to the savings or checking account of your choice.
When managing your personal loan, you must make every payment on time. Making payments on time will help you avoid late fees and penalties that add to your balance. Additionally, some loans have pre-payment penalties for repaying debt before the last payment is due.
Alternatives to Personal Loans in Arizona
Some Arizona residents may determine that even the best personal loan options aren't right for them. If you are one of those people, here are some personal loan alternatives.
Credit Card
A credit card gives you access to an unsecured line of credit. Instead of borrowing a lump sum of money, a credit card allows you to borrow the specific amount you need. You can use credit cards almost globally to pay for goods, services, and living expenses. Because banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions secure them, you can easily cancel and replace credit cards they become lost or stolen.
Because a credit card is essentially an unsecured loan, credit approval depends on your credit history. However, credit cards are available for people with bad credit.
Credit products, like credit cards, don't just offer spending power. Debt consolidation credit cards are an excellent way to avoid using personal loans by allowing you to repay multiple accounts and focus on making a single payment. If your credit card comes from your bank, you can easily set up automatic payments from your bank account.
Although they have their benefits, it's essential to learn how to manage a credit card wisely. If it's possible, you should pay off your credit card balance every month. But if you can't, make every effort to pay more than the minimum payment due every month. Either of these actions will help you save money in interest and late fees.
Payday Loan
A payday loan is a short-term loan that costs borrowers a lot of money in the long run. Payday loans are available in most parts of the country in thousands of locations. These fast cash loans have incredibly high-interest rates and hidden fees and require making payments quickly to avoid penalties or additional fees. These tight terms cause many payday borrowers to go into default, resulting in severe financial hardships.
Online payday advances might seem like a good idea if you're in a pinch, but make sure to review the terms before you agree to one.
Why Should You Choose a Personal Loan?
The best personal loan you can get is the one you can get as soon as possible. Luckily, this may be the case with many personal loans. CreditNinja personal loans are one solution that is always quick and easy.
If you're in need of loans for bad credit make sure to do plenty of research to find the right solution for you.
- Arizona|Wikipedia.org
- When Are Personal Loans a Good Idea? | Investopedia
- Change in Resident Population of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico: 1910 to 2020 | Census.gov
- Living in Arizona Improves Health Conditions Like Osteoporosis | Desert Investor
- 15 Things to Consider Before Moving to Arizona | ApartmentGuide.com


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#WeAreAllUkrainians gemeinnützige GmbH
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E-Mail: [email protected]
Altnerative Kontaktmöglichkeit: Kontaktformular
Internet: https://www.weareallukrainians.de/
Vertretungsberechtigte Personen: Geschäftsführung:
Dörte Kruppa, Tatjana Kiel
Registergericht Hamburg HRB 176431
USt-IdNr: DE357174703.
English version:
#WeAreAllUkrainians gemeinnützige GmbH
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Contact us:
E-Mail: email@example.com
You can also use the contactform
Internet: https://www.weareallukrainians.de
Authorized representatives: Managing Directors: Dörte Kruppa, Tatjana Kiel
Commercial register: Registergericht Hamburg HRB 176431
VAT-IdNr: DE357174703.
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Almac flies high at Aer Lingus Viscount Awards
May 1, 2014
Presented with Best Large Business and Overall Excellence Awards
Almac has been awarded with both the Best Large Business and Overall Excellence category awards at the 6th annual Aer Lingus Viscount Awards in London.
Run in association with Ulster Business Magazine, the awards are designed to honour companies which have forged vital economic ties between Northern Ireland and Great Britain as well as recognising Northern Ireland's best businesses across a wide spectrum of specialist areas.
The Best Large Business award recognised Almac as the most entrepreneurial large company, excelling in all functions of business by demonstrating significant commitment to producing and marketing its products and services and contributing to the NI/GB commercial relationship.
The award for Overall Excellence was presented to Almac in recognition of the company's positive contribution and impact on the Northern Ireland economy, strong commercial performance, business growth and innovation in addition to its commitment to export excellence.
Both awards were presented to Almac's VP Corporate Marketing, Doug Cookson, during an awards luncheon at the Royal Automobile Club in London.
As part of the award ceremony Dr Laura Hill, Almac's Team Leader Clinical Bioinformatics, participated in a panel session alongside other Northern Ireland business leaders and award judges. Dr Hill discussed Almac's remarkable progress over the past 12 months and explained how its continual innovation has enabled the company to achieve sustainable growth.
Doug Cookson, VP Corporate Marketing at the Almac Group, said: "We are delighted to have won two prestigious Aer Lingus Viscount Awards. It's great to be acknowledged for the pioneering work our teams across the globe undertake and we're proud to be recognised among the best of Northern Irish businesses.
"Our heart is very much based in Northern Ireland but our reach is truly global.
"Some of our notable achievements in the last year include significantly increasing our turnover to £300m, the development of a novel, state of the art, diagnostic test to assist in the treatment of breast cancer and enhancing our existing presence in Asia by starting the development of a new facility in Singapore and opening offices in Japan to further expand support for our customers."
The awards come just one month after Almac picked up two category awards at the Belfast Telegraph Business Awards for Excellence in Innovation and Excellence in Technology in addition to being recognised at The Irish Laboratory Awards by winning "Laboratory Team of the Year" in December.


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Infantry Armor Artillery Support Paramilitary Reserves
Warplanes Air Weapons Air Defense
Surface ForcesSubmarinesNaval AirMarines
Counter-TerrorismSpecial OperationsInformation WarfarePeacekeeping
MoraleLeadershipIntelligenceMurphy's LawWinningPeace Time
Electronic WeaponsSpaceNBC WeaponsStrategic Weapons
Sea TransportationAir Transportation
November25, 2006: The recent opening of a $300 million headquarters for GRU (Russian military intelligence), was but another demonstration of Russia's increased interest in espionage. The 670,000 square foot GRU complex contains the latest of everything for one of the smallest of Russia's intelligence services (the domestic, and foreign, intelligence services are larger). Over the past five years, the increasing flood of oil revenue has made it possible to rebuild the intelligence services. After the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, there followed a decade of decline for the intelligence services. The feared KGB became the threadbare SVB, with domestic intelligence taken over by the FSB. Many Soviet spies defected, and sold their secrets to Western intelligence agencies.
That's all changed, party due to the current Russian leader, president Vladimir Putin, whose previous career was as a KGB officer. But the Russians are also back to their old Soviet ways, in that most of their espionage appears to be directed towards stealing technology. In a way, this doesn't make a lot of sense. During the Soviet period, the Russians did not recognize a lot of foreign patents, did not export their best military technology, and stole Western technology they needed. For the Soviets, stealing technology was a cheap way of keeping pace, although always behind, with the West. Now Russia has Western quality manufacturing capabilities and the ability to license most of what they need. But there are some military technologies it cannot license. So whatever tech Russia steals, it can now duplicate more effectively than during the Soviet period. But it can't let any stuff, built using stolen technology, get discovered by foreigners. Otherwise, the lawsuits and trade sanctions will arrive, and cause more harm than the lack of foreign technologies.
What the Russians are looking for are not so much patented technologies, as the "trade secrets" that are not filed with the patent office, and given legal protection from copying. Russia is especially eager to get military technology, and intel on government and business decision making. But mainly, the Russians are eager to get ahold of whatever foreign companies or governments do not want them to see. So, after a ten year hiatus, Russia spies are again being found everywhere, as they have been for the last 70 years. It's estimated that there are at least a hundred Russian spies active in the United States, with most other industrialized countries having 20-40 of them. Some are locals, working for the Russians, the others are Russians pretending to be something else.
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Are you a fan of the Limo services? Also, did you think that the luxurious limo cars were hired only during prom nights and weddings? Have you answered YES to both questions? If your answer is YES again, then you may be surprised to know that there are several other events where the limousine services can be availed. Read on to know more about the other occasions where you can hire limos.
Pub or Party Hopping
There are many times when you and your group of friends may want to go pub or party hopping. In such cases, for a group of around 20 persons, you surely must consider renting limos to travel in style and for a comfortable journey too. When you hire a limo, you do not have to wait like cabs and thus, can make the most of the night out with your pals.
Business Travel
If you are the owner of a business (whether small or large one), availing luxury car rentals is an effective way of making a good impression among both potential and existing clients. In most cases, local businesses hire cars to entertain prospective clients, but renting a limo for dealing with corporate professionals is a popular choice. Moreover, you must consider hiring limo services to pick up a group of experts.
Date Nights
If you are planning to surprise your girlfriend by taking her on a date and want to make the night a romantic and enjoyable one, hiring limo services is your best bet. You have an option between the grand luxury cars or the traditional stretch ones. Depending on your budget, you can avail the given choices. Also, if any special occasions such as Valentine's Day, anniversaries, proposals, or birthdays are around the corner, all you have to do is to rent a limo to make the event memorable.
Spa Visits
Renting a limo to commute to and fro from the spa is a great way to pamper yourself too. Besides, you along with your partner can ride in a limo to the spa center for 'Couples' treatment. During a bridal party too, opt for a limo to take you to the spa, to feel relaxed and rejuvenated.
Also, for a group of 30 people or so, you can avail the option of limo-buses, compact sedans, and stretch SUVs. You can shop around depending on your budget.
Alumni Meetings
Alumni gatherings are not organized often. However, whenever you have to attend such functions, opt for a chauffeured luxury car to heighten the fun quotient. You are sure to make an impression when you arrive in a limo; also, in the limo, you can practice your presentation or have group conversation that will help to make your meeting great.
You have an array of chauffeured car services that can be availed. However, make sure you scrutinize all your choices and make a balanced decision after taking into account all the related aspects. You sure do not want to have any regrets later on, now do you? Guess not!


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Migrating From Universal Dashboard 2.9
PowerShell Universal Dashboard v2.9 is a PowerShell module that allows you to create dashboard with PowerShell script. It is the predecessor to PowerShell Universal. The technology the enabled UD has been migrated into PowerShell Universal. You should be able to run the same PowerShell scripts in PowerShell Universal that you would in Universal Dashboard with some minor modifications.
In Universal, all you need to do is return the result of New-UDDashboard from your script. There is no need to call Start-UDDashboard. The configuration of the webserver is taken place using the PSU
file.New-UDDashboard -Title 'My dashboard' -Content {
This cmdlet has been removed from Universal Dashboard. There is no longer a need to call it.
You do not need to pass the value of a scheduled endpoint to anything. You can just call
with a endpoint schedule and it will automatically be registered with PSU.$Schedule = New-UDEndpointSchedule -Every 10 -Minute
$Endpoint = New-UDEndpoint -Schedule $Schedule -Endpoint {}
Authentication and authorization are now handled by PSU and there is no need to configure UD login pages. Authentication and authorization are configured with the PSU
file. Dashboard's themselves can be either authenticated or not authenticated. A license is required to enable authenticated dashboards.To enable role-based access controls, you can assign roles to pages and use the automatic
variable to check which roles the user is a part of. The $User
variable will provide the name of the user.Authorizations policies in Universal work very similar to the ones in Universal Dashboard, you will define them using the
cmdlet. When you define the role, you have the option to define a policy that will assign that role automatically to a user.For example, let's adjust a claims policy from Universal Dashboard for Universal.
Universal Dashboard
$AuthorizationPolicy = New-UDAuthorizationPolicy -Name "Policy" -Endpoint {
$User.HasClaim("group", "administrator")
New-PSURole -Name 'User' -Policy {
$User.Claims | Where-Object { $_.Type -eq 'group' -and $_.Value -eq 'administrator' }
Much like the
cmdlet in Universal Dashboard, you also have access to the assigned roles for users in Universal. Simply check the $Roles
variable to see which roles the user has.PS C:\Users\adamr> $Roles = @('Administrator')
PS C:\Users\adamr> if ($Roles -contains 'Administrator') { $true }
This section contains migration information for upgrading from UDv2 to UDv3. They are vastly different frameworks and will require rewriting your dashboard. Many of the concepts are the same.
Pages have a different behavior in v3. All pages are dynamic pages. This means that you don't have to worry about whether a page will be generated at run time or doing start up. Pages are always generated during runtime.
If you have a page such as this one:
New-UDPage -Url "/myPage/:owner" -Endpoint {
You can convert it to a v3 page by changing the syntax to:
New-UDPage -Name 'myPage' -Url "/myPage/:owner" -Content {
Rather than having two cmdlets for tables (New-UDTable and New-UDGrid). The New-UDTable in v3 provides the ability to display data in a table, filter, page, and sort it. It supports both client and server-side processing.
Unlike in v3, components do not have
and -Content
parameters. Each component will instead simply have a -Content
parameter. To achieve dynamic sections of a page, you can instead use the New-UDDynamic
cmdlet. This cmdlets let you define an entire section of a page as dynamic. It also provides auto refresh functionality so you can refresh sections of a page all at once.New-UDDynamic -Content {
New-UDTypography -Text (Get-Date)
New-UDGrid allows you to define a grid layout using the Material UI library. You use this single cmdlet to define rows and columns within your dashboard.
has been replaced by New-UDForm
. The UDForm component allows far more configuration that UDInput did. You will use the standard controls like UDTextbox, UDCheckbox, and UDSelect instead of New-UDInputField. This means that there are a single set of input cmdlets to use for UD.Instead of using New-UDSideNav, you will now use a combination of New-UDAppbar and New-UDDrawer. When New-UDAppBar is used with the default position, it will overlay the AppBar at the top of the page. You can then specify a drawer to customize the navigation experience within your dashboard.
The Nivo and sparklines controls are now open source and on the Universal Dashboard repository. You can now use them without purchasing a license.
The map control is also open source and on GitHub.
Last modified 2yr ago


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Dream Cruises brings the world's first lavender fields of Hokkaido and Torii gates of Kyoto at sea on board World Dream for a virtual Super Summer Seacation escape to Japan.
Embark on World Dream from May 28 to August 31 for the ultimate Super Summer Seacation to discover wonders from the North to the South of Japan without having to leave Singapore. Iconic travel destinations and landmarks such as the lavender fields in Hokkaido and the Torii gates in Kyoto, as well as local specialties and cultural experiences will provide guests with the "next best thing" to visiting the Land of the Rising Sun. In the spirit of the international sports event to take place in Tokyo this summer, guests will also have the opportunity to put their athleticism to the test for a chance to win a Dream Champion Gold Medal.
Experience summer in Hokkaido in the world's first-ever lavender field at sea
The Wonders of Japan journey will begin in the North, starting with Hokkaido – the perfect summer holiday destination renowned for its lavish fields of lavender during the month of July. Take the most Instagrammable photos in the world's first-ever lavender field at sea and feast your eyes on over 1,200 square feet of purple shrubs under the sun in the fresh sea breeze or indulge in special lavender spa treatments at the Crystal Life Spa, the world's largest beauty and wellness haven at sea. Guests can also learn to make their own lavender sachets and crepe paper lavender bouquets to bring a piece of Hokkaido back home.
Tokyo – For Anime Lovers and Adrenaline Junkies
In celebration of the Tokyo Summer Olympic games this year, Dream Cruises will host its first-ever Dream Championships on World Dream, where guests can test their strength, agility and stamina in a series of challenges ranging from S.A.F.E. ARCHERY ®, a ropes course and climbing wall, waterslides and more, to win a Dream Medal. Then, to embrace the spirit of Akihabara, the haven for all manga and anime lovers in Tokyo, guests will be invited to dress up as their favorite characters and join the Cosplay Video Game Challenge, where the most well-versed manga and anime enthusiasts will put their knowledge to the test; for those who wish to create their own Manga Japanese comics, the Manga Drawing Class is not to be missed.
Photo hotspot in the world's first Torii gates at sea, explore the Ancient Cultural Heart of Japan
The Wonders of Japan journey travels further down the main island of Japan to the Kansai region, where Osaka, the ancient capital city of Japan is located. The famous vermilion Torii gates of Fushimi Inari-taisha, one of the most iconic landmarks in Kyoto, will be re-created at sea for the first-time ever on World Dream and provide shutterbugs with another eye-catching beauty spot for photos. Also known as the Geisha Central, geishas dressed in elaborate kimonos and strolling in the streets of Gion is one of the most exquisite sceneries that can only be found in Kyoto. Guests of World Dream will have the opportunity to witness the magical transformation of the iconic Geisha look by makeup artist; for those who wish to channel their inner Geisha, they can also learn to create their own Geisha hair ornaments to complete the look.
Guests are also invited to learn and appreciate the Japanese culture through live performances of the traditional parasol dance, which originated from the Japanese dance-drama Kabuki, as well as Yukata fashion shows, the traditional Japanese attire usually worn during the summer season. Food lovers won't want to miss specialties from Osaka served in The Lido, the complimentary onboard restaurant, as well as decadent desserts made with Uji matcha, the green tea that hails from the cultural city of Uji in the Kansai region, at the Lobby Café.
Explore the Island of Shikoku, Kyushu and Okinawa
Dream Cruises has curated distinctive cultural and culinary experiences from the islands of Shikoku, Kyushu and Okinawa for guests to enjoy, without stepping foot outside of Singapore. Arts and crafts from Okinawa such as origami, star-sand bottle making and Bingata dye craft workshops provide family fun time at sea, while guests of all ages can indulge in local delicacies from the islands in the complimentary and specialty restaurants on World Dream, including Okinawa Wagyu beef and Kyushu delicacies.
Summer Fun for Little Dreamers
Kids aged 2-12 will enjoy exclusive access to the Little Dreamers Program, the signature program of Dream Cruises that inspires children to tap into their potential and learn new skills, while being creative and having fun at sea. Year-round complimentary activities feature the popular STEAM Education workshops "LEGO BOOST Robot Coding" and "Advance Maze Challenge", music sessions, craft workshops and the Little Dreamers Story Club. Special chargeable summer programs will also be available from May 28 to June 26, including the Kids Theatre Workshop, the Little Scientists Workshop and the Creative Slippers Workshop.
These special summer programs will wrap up with a graduation ceremony, where the Little Dreamers will receive a commemorative certificate signed by the Captain as a unique souvenir of their Super Summer Seacation on World Dream.


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6.28.22 | Millbridge Speedway
You are purchasing a single night Pay Per View for the Weekly Racing event at Millbridge Speedway on June 28.
If you're a Monthly or Yearly Fast Pass subscriber you can watch the race here.
6.28.22 | Millbridge Speedway
Millbridge Speedway hosts another action-packed night featuring Cadet, Beginner, Box and JR Wing divisions.
If you require immediate assistance during a live broadcast, please check out the help center here or email [email protected].


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Former Airbus CEO Tom Enders joins Lilium Board
Longtime aviation executive and former Airbus CEO Tom Enders joins the board of directors of eVTOL startup Lilium. The company is developing an electric jet with five seats. Series production is expected to start in 2025.
"Lilium, unlike hardly any other aviation company in Europe, stands for fresh pioneering spirit, for a bold departure into new territory," wrote Enders on the company's blog. He added that "This kind of pioneering spirit, innovation and entrepreneurial courage" had driven his nearly 30-year career in the aerospace industry. When CEO Daniel Wiegand asked Enders if he would accept a position on the board, he said he didn't have to think twice.
Next to Enders and Wiegand, the Swedish entrepreneur Niklas Zennström, German founder and investor Frank Thelen, and David Wallerstein, Tencent's chief exploration officer build the Lilium board.
In January, Lilium announced that Alastair MacIntosh had moved from Rolls-Royce to Lilium, where he assumed responsibility as Chief Technology Officer and Head of Design.
The software development team is based in London and managed by Carlos Morgado, previously CTO of Just Eat. The London unit links to offices in Munich and Zurich.
The start-up had raised close to 400 million euros last year. Their electric VTOL differs from more drone-like concepts as it takes its design cues and flights from jets. While competitors see the urban air space as next territory, Lilium suggests mid-range flights within a 300 km radius, i.e. racing from London to Manchester in 20 minutes.
They also specified the US a key market and announced their expansion last November. They had reached a corresponding agreement with the Tavistock Development Company and the City of Orlando, Florida. Lilium wants to serve "several large cities" such as Orlando, Tampa, West Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Daytona Beach and Jacksonville from their hub.
In Europe, Lilium had initiated the certification process for the VTOL in spring 2019.


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If you're looking to make a move, you may be wondering if you can tow a trailer with all of your belongings inside of it. If you plan to do so, you need to keep in mind that this can lead to significant wear and tear on your car — or even the trailer unhitching from your car — if you're not careful.
In this article, we'll help you determine how much weight your vehicle can tow. This means explaining the difference between gross vehicle weight and gross vehicle weight rating, why your trailer hitch is so important, and more. By the end, you should have a clear understanding of how to safely tow your belongings.
Understanding Gross Vehicle Weight and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
When determining how much weight a vehicle can carry, you'll encounter two numbers: its gross vehicle weight and its gross vehicle weight rating.
The gross vehicle weight refers to how heavy the vehicle is without anything inside of it. The gross vehicle weight rating, on the other hand, refers to how much weight the vehicle can carry in total.
When determining how much weight your vehicle can hold, you need to subtract the gross vehicle weight from the gross vehicle weight rating. This will allow you to know how much extra weight you can put on the vehicle.
Are There Any Other Factors You Need to Pay Attention To?
Along with your car and your trailer, you also need to make sure that your hitch can handle the weight it's carrying. Trailer brakes are designed to automatically stop a trailer when it disconnects from your car or truck. That said, you don't want to rely on this, and the stopped trailer can still cause a major accident on the road.
You also want to make sure to put 20-25% of the trailer's wait near the tongue. This helps stabilize the trailer and prevent it from tipping or flipping.
Need a Professional Moving Company?
Moving can be difficult. Along with making sure you're ready to start your life at your new home — making sure you understand any necessary working situations, making sure your kids are at the right home, making sure your old home has been sold — you also have to take care of numerous logistical challenges.
If you don't want to rent a trailer, Interwest Moving is here to help. Please reach out to us to get your free moving estimate.


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They always say two things in life are for sure: death and taxes. But, here at Royal Home Improvement, we think they should add storms to that list. If one thing is for certain, we see a lot of storm damage and know how you can prepare your home to weather the storm. No matter where you live, whether you're on the coast, in tornado alley or up north, one thing is certain – we all get hit with inclement weather. We have just what you need so you can stay comfortable, safe and secure during a storm.
Durable metal roofing
Storms can often rip shingles off roofs, and roofs off of homes. But metal roofing? Not a chance. Hail damage? Doesn't stand a chance. Wind? Metal roofing can withstand winds up to 140-miles-per-hour. Have we mentioned storms don't stand a chance against our metal roofing? While branches and wind tend to do the most damage to roofs and siding, our Decra residential metal roofing provides extreme weather protection for your home. Now is the best time to prepare your home to be a safe place for you and your family.
Provia Siding
Our siding is specifically designed to stand up to severe weather. So much so that Provia Siding from Royal Home Improvement is ranked highly by consumer reports. Protect your home all the way around with durable siding.
If your gutters have seen better days, it's time to replace them. Gutters that don't drain properly can end up costing you more in the long run due to water damage to your roof, siding, insulation, landscaping, foundation and so much more. Help your home be ready to face heavy rain storms with gutters that can handle the weather by quickly and properly moving water away from your home. In the meantime, be sure to clean them out to avoid overflow during a storm.
Hurricane strength windows
Windows can often break during storms due to high winds and objects penetrating them. Our ThemoKing windows are built to last. These windows can weather the storm and keep your home dry, safe and comfortable. Our windows are made with two pieces of tempered safety glass that do not allow water and wind to pass through these windows. The seal will not break if hit repeatedly by strong force, which will prevent water and debris from entering your home. These are the highest quality replacement windows on the market.
If you're wanting to make sure your home can handle the elements and is prepared to keep your family safe, call Royal Home Improvement today!


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Christmas is certainly going to be different this year but I am sure we're all going to make the best of it. One thing I always look forward to is the delicious food. There are certain things that I only buy at Christmas. The obvious things like Christmas cake and pudding but also things like Advocaat, Twiglets, salted peanuts, posh marmalade, fancy cheeses and treats for us all.
This year I have been sent a selection of products from Opies who are celebrating their 140th year in the food business! With families having experienced such an uncertain, challenging year Opies have come up with clever ways to ensure that this Christmas families can enjoy an indulgent and tasty festive season. I think we all deserve this Christmas to be a good one!
Opies Pickled Walnuts.
A great English delicacy these pickled walnuts are harvested before their shells form whilst they are still green. They are then cooked and pickled in spiced malt vinegar and hand-packed into jars.
On Christmas Day Opies Pickled Walnuts add depth of flavour to a Vegan Nut Loaf and can be mixed into stuffing to serve with turkey, duck or goose. On Boxing Day, serve with leftover cold cuts and a cheeseboard selection. There's plenty of opportunities to finish off the jar once the festive event has passed pop them into a leftover Turkey Casserole, mix into some grated cheddar for a luxurious Welsh Rarebit or just enjoy with leftover cheese.
New Christmas Fruits with Alcohol!
Opies fruits steeped in syrup infused with alcohol have long been a popular festive treat or Christmas gift for a foodie friend. This year, three new luxury fruits have been added to their collection with each taking inspiration from popular and best-selling fruits and alcohol.
Opies Red Berries steeped in syrup infused with Pink Gin!
The finest combination of redcurrants, raspberries and sour cherries infused with a delicious yet delicate pink gin. With back notes of juniper, the red berries effortlessly enhance a Gin and Tonic and are absolutely sublime in a boozy ice-cream sundae.
Opies Figs steeped in syrup infused with Luxardo Dark Rum!
A classic combination! Juicy figs steeped in the finest dark rum which perfectly brings out rich, indulgent and slightly spicy tones.
Opies Apricots steeped in syrup infused with The Famous Grouse Blended Scotch Whisky!
When you combine carefully sourced, sweet juicy apricots with the UK's best-selling blended whisky the result is sheer perfection.
The fruits infused with alcohol collection make great standby ingredients whether you decide to throw a last minute get together or have a simple need to satisfy your own sweet tooth. Simply top a meringue nest or cheesecake or just accompany a generous scoop of ice cream. Presented in globe jars the collection could also make wonderful gifts for foodie friends and neighbours, grandparents, stocking fillers, teacher 'thank you's and Secret Santa.
For the cocktails there is Opies Cocktail Cherries!
Simply put a cherry into a glass of Prosecco or use to make a simple Daiquiri!
You can also use them to make succulent cherry scones, cover in chocolate for a homemade gift, chop and add to granola. use to create character noses on top of iced fairy cakes, cheer up home-made Christmas cakes and puddings and use the liquid as a substitute for cherry syrup in cocktails!
You can buy Opies products from selected Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose and Morrisons stores and independent retailers and see a whole heap of recipes on their website.
I was sent these jars of Opies products free of charge in exchange for this blog post.


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The Gallegan fashion retailer never fails to amaze us with its growth capacity, which is also healthy. As of now, it is not just the leading Spanish company in stock market terms but also one of the three or four in the Eurostoxx 50 worth over 100 billion euros. A surprising position given the fact that it its annual revenues 'barely' stand at a little over 20 billion euros and its profits are under 3 billion. And it is worth almost double H&M (46 billion euros), which generates more or less the same revenues.
It's no surprise then that its high PER, 31x, which is more suited to a technology company trading on the Nasdaq, scares more than a few. So much so that whenever it shows any sign of a slowdown, people start selling massively. And analysts have done nothing to help the public. Ye of little faith! They have frequently been sceptical and advised their troops to sell, fearing that such a stunning story has to end at some point.
At the moment in fact this almost superstitious mistrust has led to a situation where only 7 of the 32 analysts who cover Inditex have a buy recommendation on the stock, despite the company's spectacular first half results. There are 5 analysts with a sell recommendation and 20 with a hold stance.
Of course fear is free to do what it wants. And to justify such high valuations, the company will have to demonstrate that it is capable of beating its own records quarter after quarter. And is it achieving this? For the time being, it would appear so.
From 2008 up until last year, Inditex has doubled its revenues (and its net profit by around 130%). And in 2015, revenues increased by 15.4% and profits by 14.8%. But what is more important and even more encouraging is the fact that its like-for-like sales grew 11%, and only 5% as a result of new store openings. Its first half results were also more than just acceptable.
Despite the fact that during the first half the company opened 83 new stores, it has managed to make more money from the existing ones than with the new establishments. This is because the group is expanding its offers across all its chains. And the public is responding well to its new proposals. This increase in choice is so successful that Inditex, which has succeeded in boosting sales per store by 5% between 2000 and 2016, is seeing an even bigger rise.
And if that weren't enough, the company is improving its efficiency in an incredible way. Neither does it have any financial costs, given that it has enough 'cash' for its new stores and logistic warehouses. Its on-line sales are growing massively and this división is very profitable. Last year, Inditex's on-line stores in Europe grew 38%.
The inconvenient thing about all this is that the company is leaves investors and analysts with their heart in their mouth. It seems difficult to continue making more cost savings and generate even higher revenues by m2. It's posible, but the new stores seem to have infinite upside. At the end of the day, just one country, Spain, represents 17% of Inditex's business. The company has 7,096 stores in 91 countries, 1,314 of which are in Spain. But in China there are only 580: so the upside there is huge. There are also only 289 stores in France, 134 in Germany and 109 in the UK.
The opportunity for expansion in all its markets is wide open: it depends on the company opening more stores, which depends on its financial and management capacity (which may be limited in the latter). For the time being, there are no serious risks of cannibalisation. Inditex's brands, particularly Zara, are still very strongly positioned in Europe. They are the preferred brands in the middle-market segment, both in terms of design and price. In Latin America or Asia they are the aspirational fashion brands with the best image.
Hence the fact that many brokerage houses have relaxed their view a bit over the last few days and have published their estimates for Inditex's stock price. In the case of Goldman Sachs and Citi this is 37 euros. And it's very likely that this forecast is conservative.
These brokerages have decided to overlook the fact that there has been a slight slowdown in the pace of growth in both revenues and profits in the first half (11.15% and 7.7% respectively). And the firm's gross margin fell from 58.1% to 56.8%. But these are normal ups and downs, which are not indicative of any fundamental trend. The company appears to be holding on tightly to the spirit with which it was founded: grow more than anyone else.
*Image: Flickr


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Interpreting how we value parks through photographs from social media : a case study of Zilker Park in Austin, Texas
As social media such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have grown and evolved, users of these internet technologies have deposited a wealth of diverse data with the potential to inform research on a wide range of topics. In particular, the sharing of photographs of outdoor spaces through social media platforms provides important opportunities for analysis of meaning and significance, especially in terms of how planned landscapes such as public parks are perceived and socially produced. In this study, I chose to analyze photographs of Zilker Park posted on Instagram and Twitter in order to better understand how users value this important park in Austin, Texas. This report presents the content, quantitative, and qualitative analyses I conducted in order to develop a concise understanding of elements that people value most in Zilker Park. Through my research and methodological exploration, I seek to offer a new tool for public participation in park planning that can augment existing engagement methods.


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Job Detail
Job ID 16704
Career Level Others
Experience 3 - 4 Years or +
Industry Design / Production House
Qualifications Others
Job Description
Recruit Ref: L042556122
Posting Date: 2021-01-23
Petits' Photography
PETITS' PHOTOGRAPHY provides professional photography services, especially focusing on childhood and college students with up-to-date fashion trends. We have many years of experience in photography and are now working with more than 500 kindergartens and tertiary institutions. In addition, the scope of shooting also includes studio photography, outdoor photography and graduation photography.
To cope with our business growth, we are expanding our team and seeking high caliber professionals to fill the immediate vacancies.
Assistant Sales Manager
- To formulate and carry out effective strategies to meet sales target also boost the selling's volume;
- To ensure the team consistently delivers excellent service to clients;
- Participate in different marketing campaigns to promote our products and services;
- Increase group's popularity among the key customers and promote studios visions;
- Work closely with other group departments;
- Liaise with internal and external parties on business issues independently.
- At least 3-5 years in retail / customer service or related working experience;
- Excellent communication skills in spoken Cantonese, Mandarin and English;
- Commercial acumen, networking skills, strategic thinking;
- Aggressive, meticulous, result-oriented;
- 5.5 days working per week;
- Immediately available is highly preferred.
We offer a long-term career opportunity to the right candidate. If you aspire to an exciting and rewarding career, join us now!
Please directly submit your full resume with expected salary to firstname.lastname@example.com
- Personal data provided in the employment applications will be treated as strictly confidential and used only for recruitment purpose. All unsuccessful applications will be destroyed upon completion of the process.
Recruit Online


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By Louisa Hearn
An Australian technology venture is hoping to add a new audio dimension to games like World of Warcraft and Counter-Strike with a spatial voice communication system for multiple users.
While most gamers generally communicate with one another using tools such as text chat and walkie-talkie audio, the Immersive Communications Environment (ICE) offers real time, live conversation with location specific volume says its developer, The Smart Internet Technology Cooperative Research Centre.
Trials of the new technology have just concluded at Telstra's Launceston Broadband eLab and participants in the trial said ICE helped in the audible location of an enemy, freed hands for game control and improved team interaction.
It does not influence the existing soundscape in the game but will interpret voices based on their spacial location meaning that someone closer in the virtual space might sound louder, and be able to introduce facets such as geography and landscape into their team tactics. It will also scale for use among large crowds, such as the cities found in online games such as World of Warcraft
Jamie Wilson, a participant in the trial said: The sound is superior to other gaming voice applications. With normal voice technology you hear a lot of noise but with ICE you only hear those near you - which makes the scenario more realistic."
Dean Economou, director of health and media at Smart Internet said: "Big multiplayer games generally have little text boxes or have a walkie talkie add on and from that basis we thought 'surely can do better than this' and that is where the idea came from."
He said the technology could be configured in different ways by game manufacturers to suit their gaming environment and would take the form of a simple download that could run on standard stereo audio gaming or PC equipment.
The technology also has application in online conferences or social networking applications - basically anywhere that users of the technology could be defined by a virtual space, he added.
The Smart Internet Centre is a joint venture between industry, universities, and State and Federal Governments, with the mission of developing internet technologies with commercial application. Developers will now be approaching gaming companies to guage their interest in incorporating the technology into their products.


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I just found out that for the second year in a row, the Real Ale Fest 2005 has been cancelled, reportedly due (yet again) to the inability of its organizers to find a suitable venue/location. However, the organizers had over a year to work out something so I really wonder how much work they put into it.
I attended the RAF with my brothers in 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003. Each year got bigger and better with more and more sweaty attendees, including such colourful characters as the "Hop God" and "Margot Kidder". Each year my brothers and I would make off with more and more sampler glasses.
The record attendance for the 2002 event was the straw that broke the Goose Island Pub's back, causing the RAF to move to the Finkl Foundry in 2003 where my brothers and I continued to attend for our annual chance to be hopnoxious, walking around with a sampler of real ale in each hand.
Unfortunately, Chicago had a nightclub tragedy in early 2003 which caused a change in some of the local laws regarding public events and, as a result, the RAF lost its home in 2004 (apparently the Finkl Foundry did not meet requirements stipulated by the new legislation). While a Real Ale pub crawl supposedly took place, my brothers and I did not attend (for me, this mostly had to do with the fact that we were expecting the birth of our twin sons any day - - me and my wife, not me and my brothers).
To hear that the RAF is also not planned for 2005 means to me that the RAF is probably dead and remains now only a piece of Chicago history. It's a shame, really, because it did showcase a lot of small breweries and gave everyone a chance to sample ales from all over the country and even some foreign countries. It was also a growing tradition between my brothers and I. It gave us an excuse to get together and party (my brother Martin is turning 21 in 2006 and next year would have been his first chance to legally participate).
I do hold a hope that something magical happens for 2006, but I have my cynical doubts...


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As we approach the holidays, one unit we always get to do is Holidays Around the World. To get started, we're going to dive into all about Kwanzaa. I love getting to expose my students to holidays that they may not be familiar with. Plus, it helps build a strong, solid classroom community with empathy and understanding. Celebrating differences is so important with our young learners.
Today I'm sharing some Kwanzaa activities for the classroom that are educational and engaging. Then I have some Christmas freebies for you!
Kwanzaa in the Classroom
This week we have been busy learning about Kwanzaa. I don't have one student who celebrates Kwanzaa and I never have, but it is still important that they know about other holidays, cultures, and traditions.
We started by reading a book about Kwanzaa. Books are a fabulous way to introduce a new topic. You can read more about why interactive read alouds are so powerful HERE.
We then talked about the 7 principles with our own candle holder.
Next, we talked about traditions associated with Kwanzaa, such as the mat, or mkeke. We got busy making our own! It did take some time, but it was great fine motor practice for them and most of them had to do it over and over. It was great seeing them keep trying and keep trying! A few of them I had to get started, then I would tell them, "Now make your green and red look like my green and red." But they finished it!
I was very proud of their hard work!
Kwanzaa Activities for the Classroom Mini-Unit
If you want to check out some other engaging things to help you teach about Kwanzaa in your classroom, check out my mini-unit HERE. It's jam-packed with enough activities to effectively teach like vocabulary cards, graphic organizers to compare/contrast it with Christmas and Hanukkah, fact sorting, an emergent reader, and a purposeful craft!
Christmas Freebies!
In other fun news, the Holiday eBook is out and it is FILLED with freebies for Pre-K and K! Several teacher-authors got together to create a big list of tips and freebies. While it is from 2013, it still has great value. Check it out and see what you can find!
Click the image above to download the file. Once you download the file, you click on each page to grab the freebies you want!
Below is the freebie I included (you can also get it in my shop!) It's a subitizing activity that you can use in math stations or as morning work.


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Gresham and ANZ partnership progresses innovative cash management solution
Gresham Technologies plc has announced further details of its recent strategic licencing agreement with ANZ. More information features on the financial services news portal, Electronic Payments International.Coverage
Electronic Payments InternationalGresham partners with ANZ to launch cash management solution
Electronic Payments International is a digital publication dedicated to banks and financial services companies in retail and corporate payments sector. The publication provides bankers and payments professionals with the latest news and in-depth analysis.


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Rev. Bodhi's Biography
Beginning to Serve the people
1979 the year that Ven. Bodhananda arrived in Batu Ambe
he found the village did not have any basic facilities such as water, electricity, telephones and sanitary facilities. Although the villagers were a set of strong minded people they were indulging heavily on alcohol, cannabis and crime. It was alarming to note that the youth were following the footsteps of their adults. Amidst tough opposition the young monk began to instill cultural and moral values in them. The temple was used as a place for education and for development of spirituality.
Pre-schools, Children groups and Mothers groups were set up to improve the living standards. The men and women were trained to make use of the natural resources available, to their benefit. The struggle of 09 months produced results He was available to slowly but gradually turn the mentality of the villages around. The police left the youth alone and encouraged them to support the young priest. He was able to draw the attention of the government officers concerned, who on seeing the actual transformation of the village started releasing funds for development.
The strenuous work had its toll on the monk. Ven. Bodhananda had to retire to quieter, less exhaustive surroundings. His efforts were not in vain. He had begun what he always wanted to do. Today, Batu Ambe is one of the most developed villages in the Kandy district. It was an area where people were very malicious and illiterate and they were beastly. with all these obstacles and risking the life went ahead regardless. During which period he became seriously ill and on medical grounds he was compelled to relinquish his services much to his disliking.
1980 Ven. Bodhananda enrolled at the Sarvodaya Bhikku (Priest)
Training Center at Pathakada in the Ratnapura District to follow a course in 'Rural Leadership' and successfully completed same at the end of the year. He also made use of this period to recover and restore himself to full health to proceed in his interrupted journey fortifying himself with leadership training.
1981 Having heard of the pathetically
poor patients in hospital with not even the barest of essentials available to them, the monk launched out a campaign for donations of food items for the hospitalized patients. The first donation came from him-the 'Pirikara' (the offerings made to the priests by laymen) consisting of Powdered Milk, Tea Leaves and Sugar. He walked more than 16 kilometers from Pathakada to the Kahawatte Hospital with a few others, collecting whatever he got for the patients. Having distributed these items among the patients in the Maternity and Tuberculosis wards, he chanted 'Pirith' to invoke blessings upon them and entertained them to tea. (He chose these wards particularly because the mothers were under-nourished and too poor and to purchase extra nutrition and where the TB patients were concerned apart from being under-nourished they were shunned by the public. They needed love and concern.)
This became a practice every Sunday with the participation of school children.. As time passed the businessmen in the area too contributed voluntarily. This project launched to uplift the poor is carried out to-date.
1982 Soon after the Hospital Visiting Project
Rev. Bodhananda Thero initiated an extra education day at Gankanda Vidyalaya (School) every Saturday from 7.30a.m. to 2.30p.m.for Religious education and guidance to develop the spiritual values of the children. The afternoons were devoted to solving problems of parents and teachers and for counseling.
He conducted programmes to the Samanera Bikkhu (Trainees for Priesthood) on love and care for mankind. He instilled in them very essence of the Dhamma (the Buddha Teaching) through which he himself was leading his life. He conducted them through his visits to the hospitals, orphanages and prisons. These lives touched him deeply. He explained to the other monks and the Samanera the ways of life. He taught them how to feel for these miserable people, how to empathies with them. They needed love, compassion and human needs looked into in a humane angle. During his visits he brought them food and essential basic requirements and clothing. He gave them consolation physically as well as mentally by chanting Pirith and Preaching Bana.
1983 On the 24th July being a Full Moon Poya Day
a new spiritual guidance programme called "Sheela Samadhanaya for the Young" was inaugurated to instill moral values through spirituality.
"How to Lead A Quality life" was the subject of a series of lectures for school children in the Pelmadulla area conducted by the Ven. Thero. This programme was so conducted by him that it helped identify disturbed children, who were then removed to short term residential counseling programmes with the consent of parents. This was a popular programme for parents with problem children.
In 1983 the July ethnic riots broke out in all parts of the country. The Ven.Thero voluntarily called up the youth in setting up Home Guard Committees as a preventive measure in all of the Ratnapura District, to safeguard the minority estate workers.
1984 The Ministry of Justice called for public support
for the correction and guidance of prisoners. Ven. Bodhananda conducted several rounds of talks with the Secretary to point out the advantage of spiritual guidance and social service for these convicts in reformation and rehabilitation instead of imprisonment. And for the first time in the Judicial history of Sri Lanka 06 convicts were directed by a Magistrate's Court for rehabilitation in a private institution. At the end of the year, Police statistics revealed that of the 106 rehabilitated by Ven. Bodhananda only 08 have reverted to crime. In spite of the grave dangers that was prevailing amongst the underworld (Mafia) he did not hesitate to proceed with the brave stance he undertook.
The undisputed success ratio was the only point of argument needed with the Attorney General who accepted it and "Drug addicts and Minor Criminals Residential Rehabilitation Programmes"by NGO's was legalized by the Public services Act of 1993. Ven. Bodhananda Thero was recognized for this concept and honored.
Projects were launched to educate the public and prevent crime and child abuse and the new problem of drug addiction with its' horrid results. More than 300,000 children from 330 schools have participated in these awareness programmes.
This year also saw the Thero Coordinating his crime prevention programmes and cooperating with the Police and other Non Governmental Organizations with such intensity involving unemployed youth that drew the attention of the then Prime Minister Hon. Ranasinghe Premadasa, who created the "Home Guard Service" to assist the Police, whilst also providing employment to youth.
1987 Ven. Bodhananda had come a long way from whence he came
He named his little organization the "Mithuru Mithuro Movement" (meaning Compassionate Friends) and sought out new premises. He purchased a 7 1/2 acre plot of land from the government with the greatest of difficulty due to heavy financial constraints.
But that was not all, Ven. Bodhananda was becoming popular in the area. For some this was too much to bear. Undesirable elements spread ugly rumors and created antagonism among the community. The disruptive force was led by a politician of the area, who believed that his popularity was at stake. He made two attempts on the Thero's life. However, due to evasive moves upon receiving early information, he managed to escape unhurt. A third attempt was made by the JVP (Peoples Liberation Front), who were hardcore terrorists, whose area leader kept a gun on the Thero's head. This instance too he survived by meeting the leaders face to face to clarify details. On realizing their error they apologized and left.
The monk was ready to proceed from his new headquarters, a 10 by 12 ft. mud hut with a thatched roof. This was not as bad as the first, few days and nights, which were spent under a couple of slanted galvanized sheets. He had with him 05 residents and 01 staff member. Life was hard. There weren't even the basic facilities for him and his team. The villagers did not have electricity, drinking water nor sanitary facilities. There weren't any proper roads. Rev. Bodhi's first mission was to gather the people of area together, educate them on the importance of hygiene and together with the youth started building toilets and wells for drinking water. He coordinated with Dr. A.T. Ariyaratne of Sarvodaya fame and received assistance from the Embassy of the Netherlands for this project.
1988 More hazels were in store for Rev. Bodhi
There were still these henchmen of local politicians who were opposing his social work as the youth of the area were gathering around him. He was labeled as an government activist and harassed to extremes. But Rev. Bodhi is a "When the going gets tough, the tough get going" type of person. He kept going. He visited the illicit liquor dens and gambling spots in the villages to educate the people on the ill effects of liquor and gambling the repercussions and effects of it on family harmony and children mentality. The villagers started to accept him as their mentor. They brought their problems to him and sought his advice.
Meanwhile, Rev. Bodhi was progressing in the construction of the office and dormitory buildings and the Education center, the finances however, was hard to come by. His Village Re-awakening and Children and Youth programmes were not fund generating but were always with available resources. Finally he sought aid from diplomatic missions and other donor agencies and received support from:
- South Korean Embassy – Rs.1.5 million worth of Vocational Training equipment.
- Forut – Rs.1.2 Million worth of equipment for Vocational Training.
- Canadian High Commission – Rs.100,000/= worth of educational equipment and books.
- Phasellus auctor augue
In addition, he persuaded the Colombo Plan Secretariat to extend their sponsorship for local and overseas training on Drug Rehabilitation to others too, than only to government officers. Rev. Bodhi was selected for training and successfully completed a 20 day national and another 15 day overseas (Singapore) training programme which helped him immensely in his rehabilitation of drug abusers programme.
In the meantime, Juvenile Crime and Child Abuse Prevention Units were organized in 350 schools in the Ratnapura District as a project to protect children. In the terrorist uprising of 1988/89, only very few youth from the district were involved. Of these, a majority surrendered to the government. As a result of the Ven.Thero's involvement in social reforming activities he was appointed to the Independent Committee of Inquiry by His Excellency Ranasinghe Premadasa – President of Sri Lanka, and was responsible for organizing rehabilitation camps for these disillusioned youth, one of which was located at the premises of the Mithuru-Mithuro Movement.
As an Adult
Ven. Bodhananda is a tireless worker. There seems to be nothing that can deter him. He seems to have been born to be of service to others. This far thinking man is involved in total dedication to persevere to achieve success in his projects.
Ven. Kuppiyawatte Bodhananda has a deep rooted desire to create a totally Drug and Substance abuse free nation of Sri Lankans. All his social activities are aimed at prevention of abuse, rehabilitation of abusers and successful re-integration into society of ex-abusers. The key function of his organization Mithuru Mithuro Movement is to design, introduce and implement programmes for the prevention and rehabilitation of addicts.
The issue of drug abuse is a critical social problem and a development issue in Sri Lanka. Having extended its vicious tentacles to shatter the decent and peaceful lifestyles of citizens, it has also deteriorated the cultural, moral, human and spiritual values in a closely knitted Sri Lankan society, particularly of its youth. Nearly 40% of the inmates of our prisons are those convicted for drug related offences(NDDCB Reports). According to surveys conducted by our groups it is estimated that there are 100,000 heroin addicts and over 200,000 cannabis addicts (Mithuru-Mithuro Files).
Addressing the drug issue, both the Government and Non Governmental Organizations believe that it is a development issue. Hence, it is our opinion that not only drug prevention or demand reduction should be given priority, treatment and rehabilitation shall also be integrated into the programmes. Prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of addicts shall be the total components of the programme; such an approach provides opportunity to consider habits and behaviors of individuals and also their functions in a subjective manner enhancing the quality and the effectiveness of the programme.
"Mithuru Mithuro" which means "Compassionate Friends" was initiated in 1984 and was registered under government ordnance as an NGO in 1993 to provide assistance and support to the rural communities and its youth in particular. The actual reforming and rehabilitation of youth began back in 1987 with the youth offenders being directed by the judiciary to Ven. K. Bodhananda of Mithuru Mithuro & is the first ever of its nature in Sri Lanka.Prevention programmes became an integral part of the ongoing treatment programme.
Juvenile delinquency and youth offenders in crime grew at an alarming rate with these groups falling victim to drugs. Ven. Bodhananda opened the doors for all drug addicts who wished to reform and parents who desired support for their children. The rehabilitation programme with active participation of parents and family was launched with all clients in residence.
The year 1993 saw the Ministry of Justice legalizing
Community Service by criminals as well as drug addicts as a penalty, whilst in the care of non-governmental organizations. This was based on the success achieved by Ven. Bodhi of Mithuru Mithuro Movement in the implementation of the Therapeutic Community System and was taken as a Pilot Project.
His Excellency D.B.Wijetunge, President of Sri Lanka acknowledged the programme and honored the efforts of Ven. Bodhananda with a personal visit to the Institute to see for himself the achievements and to express his encouraging sentiments.
The Government and Non-Governmental Organizations soon recognized the programme for its effectiveness. Support and advice for its activities was forthcoming. The altruistic enthusiasm in protecting the vulnerable and providing hope for the hopeless, led to the sponsorship of Ven. K. Bodhananda Thero for a special training programme, by the Colombo Plan Secretariat, at Day Top International Inc. USA, on the Therapeutic Community System.
The Thero was the only member of the two NGO and 12 government officers who participated in the training programme, to impart with the knowledge and experience gained, to affect a Therapeutic Community System for the benefit of the so many victims of drug abuse. In effect, Ven. Bodhananda Thero brought the TC System to Sri Lanka and implemented it.And so the Therapeutic Community System was introduced for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of drug addicts and to date Mithuru Mithuro is the only organization in Sri Lanka to do so.
In view of the increase in the rate of addiction in the country and it's dangerous consequences an extensive campaign was launched in the latter part of 1999, for the prevention of drugs abuse for children and youth and for the society in general in the form of rehabilitation and awareness using every conceivable method.
The Mithuru Mithuro Movement, which began with one center at it's inception in 1994 has expanded its activities up-to 05 centers in three districts in the island. Rev. Bodhi has separate programmes for residents in different stages of rehabilitation. The 05 centers together have a total of over 500 residents in various stages of rehabilitation.
Mithuru Mithuro Movement was expanded over
four major populated districts in island wide (Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara & Ratnapura) up to 10 residential rehabilitation centers. Currently nearly 700 residents are being enrolled with the T&R program and also more than 10,000 addicts have been socialized.
The firm belief in the programme centered on prevention of drug abuse through awareness, has proven realistically effective with true commitment and sheer perseverance, in achieving the objectives. In a clear demonstration of support, sections of the public have voluntarily joined our efforts which have been tremendously encouraging.
Thus, Ven. Bodhananda, has been successful, through public awareness and community inducement, on preventive measures against drugs from grass root level. "What Goes Around, Comes Around"-it certainly has. For the Pelmadulla Division in the Ratnapura district is already a heroin free zone!
If one is to get an opportunity of meeting the Venerable Thero his story about his Center For Drug Rehabilitation And Human Values Development Research Studies would be a brief;
"This center is my life. At a time when human beings themselves have become inhuman, and human values have deteriorated the world over, I find the strength to go on, here-the strength to re-double my efforts to succeed."
"When I first came to this place, it had nothing. The villagers had no basic facilities, no electricity, no drinking water, and no telephones and there wasn't even a road. I established base on a hill one mile from the main road with the 05 youth in rehabilitation and 01 staff member. A little mud hut was put up, 10ft. by 12ft in size with a thatched roof. Life was difficult, yet we were determined to make this place productive. Our efforts were not in vain, for today we have here the Headquarters of the Mithuru Mithuro Movement consisting of an Office complex, a hostel for about 80 residents, a meditation center, workshop, a community hall, vocational training unit, counseling room and a library. Construction has begun on an auditorium with a capacity to seat a hundred people. I have expanded my services to a total of 05 centers now in which are about a 500 residents recovering and rehabilitating."
He would at this stage proudly continue…
"Today ours is the largest and most successful Rehabilitation Organization, whether government or non government in the whole of Sri Lanka. Various tools of measurements are been used to assess and evaluate the success of our programme. The Therapeutic Community System of Rehabilitation is being conducted in 71 countries the world over and in Sri Lanka ours is the only organization to adopt it."
….and would conclude,
"My vision is a drug free society. We are responsible for the next person, in my capacity as a Buddhist monk; I will do the maximum possible to help any person to lead a better life through love and concern. When there is love, with a little effort everything is possible. Through the development of moral, human, cultural, social and spiritual values there would be no requirement for drugs and other intoxicants."
Probably the Venerable Kuppiyawatte Bodhananda is treading on the footsteps of the Reverend Mother Theresa of Culcutta.A Rare Gem Indeed, of Humanity and Love…..
It has been learnt then that drug addicts need to re-consider their positions
attitudes and behavioral patterns and identify themselves through self-realization. They need to change positively from the hedonistic culture they yearn to live in. This they cannot do alone, they need help from another.
Venerable Kuppiyawatte Bodhananda Thero has dedicated himself for the uplift of man, in a deep rooted desire to create a drug free society, by identifying the contributory factors to addiction as socio-economic, socio-environmental and self discipline.
Ven. Bodhanada Thero has strived hard to rehabilitate drug addicts and prevent future addicts through a combination of development of human, moral, cultural and spiritual values with a healthy lifestyle and economic stability. These ever innovative methods and activities involving community education and participation and his determination, has proved beyond reasonable doubt, the success of his efforts.