text:
Missed one of the Drive South Africa newsletters? Below is a collection of past Drive South Africa publications sorted in reverse chronological order.
[To sign up to our newsletter use the form on the right.]
Namibia 4x4 Trails and the 2011 Cape Argus February 2011
The festive season has simmered down, leaving a few singed bank accounts in its wake, and the gears of 2011 are back in full motion, our focus now shifts towards Namibia and the approaching 4x4 safari season. We've also got some beginner photography tips and news on the Cape Argus cycling event.
Best South African Travel Routes for 2011 January 2011
This month we're featuring some lesser know self-drive routes, re-visiting the Cape Winelands and Route 62, exploring the Panorama Route and the Kruger Park and highlighting South Africa's most famous and popular drive, The Garden Route.
Cape Town, Winelands and the West Coast December 2010
This month we're turning our attention to the Mother City, she's in full splendor over the festive period and we'll be taking a closer look what Cape Town and her surrounds hold for tourists, travellers and locals.
Word of Mouse, e-Tourism and World Records November 2010
It's been an exciting few weeks since the official launch of the new Drive South Africa website. We've found ourselves stretched in a variety of directions this month past, but in the interest of all things flexible we've covered some great stories, uncovered some gems regarding African tourism from the annual E-Tourism Frontiers Africa Summit, squeezed in a TCD Trust event and weaved together some 4x4 and car hire specials.
Save 15% on Car Hire in October October 2010
Drive South Africa is pleased to announce the launch of our new website!
Over the past few months we've been busy giving the Drive South Africa chassis a completely new look and working on extensive under-the-hood modifications. To celebrate this re-launch we're offering discount car rental with savings of up to 15% on a selection of our vehicles for the month of October.
3 Cars big enough to fit your bike in the back March 2010
3 Cars big enough to fit your bikes in the back - How to get your bike to Cape Town for free - Recommended accommodation for the Argus Cycle Tour - Luke cycles for St Lukes! - Clyde Hayward - 13 Argus Cycle Tours under the belt.
Download the official 2010 World Cup Match Schedule February 2010
World Cup Match Schedule (11 June to 11 July 2010) - Plan your 4x4 safari either side of the World Cup - World Cup Travel Packages (include match tickets) - Argus Cycle Tour (14 March 2010) - Ayesha Cloete: Travel Consultant.
View photos of Cape Town Stadium - FIFA World Cup 2010 December 2009
Book now for the World Cup (11 June to 11 July 2010) - Now accepting immediate online payment for car hire - New logo and branding - Favourite customer comments for 2009.
Use the dropdowns on the left to select where you'll be picking up and dropping off your vehicle.
Make sure the dates above are correct for your rental period.


text:
'Somewhat expensive.'
'The LN46B750's $1700 street price may seem high for a 46-inch HDTV, but when you consider its excellent images and sound, its Internet and home-network connectivity, and its all-around ease of use, it's definitely worth the price.'
'LN46B750 easily usable'
'impressive 150,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio'
'It's worth noting, however, that scenes dark enough overall to trigger this loss of contrast are relatively rare, and most dark scenes had plenty of pop.'
'the picture may seem too sharp, too clean.'
'sharpest, smoothest picture possible'
'Enough brightness to compete with sunlight from lots of windows.'
'It looks fantastic–amazingly realistic, clear, and crisp.'
ReviewGist helps you find the best products to buy by making sense of online reviews.
We are currently aggregating 376,500 reviews
covering over 29,493 products.
© 2018 ReviewGist.com. All Rights Reserved.

subset: commoncrawl


text: I can get PAL backups working just fine, but run into trouble with more than half of the NTSC backups i tried. Which is particulary annoying given how many PAL Wii owners have praised the BLs regionfree capabilities, so i know they SHOULD work. Given that all my PAL backups run and some NTSC do as well i don't think i am doing anything wrong with the way i burn the DVSs. Therefore i think i simply use the wrong settings. So some info to help you guys help me isolate where i go wrong: Running as i said a PAL Wii set to PAL60 in the system config. Console connnected via RGB cable. Several NTSC games like HM - ToT, Super Swing Golf and others still just go greenscreen and freeze when trying to start them via the BackupLoader Gamma. In this one i always use the options menu to change screen from "default" to "Force PAL60" leaving other options as they were. So is there any settings in the BackupLauncher i should set to something else to get them to run? PAL50? NTSC? Leave on default? (My TV can display both PAL and NTSC) or change any of the other options (been wondering in particular if i should change "region" from it's default) from their default to something else for better compatibility? As i said these are games that have been said to work by other PAL users and burned on the same media with the same methods as my backups that do work, so i cannot think of any other causes of the problem, but wrong settings.


text:
New 2019 GMC Yukon 4WD 4dr Denali VIN 1GKS2CKJ4KR102088 Stock Number KR102088
See Important Disclosures Here
White Frost 2019 GMC Yukon Denali 4WD 10-Speed Automatic EcoTec3 6.2L V8 4WD. Plus license and title, and $115 title and registration processing fee. A 0.5% state sales tax will be added to new vehicle sales. Plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, $80 dealer document processing charge, any electronic filing charge and any emission testing charge. (Eff 7/1/12). Price contains all applicable dealer incentives and non-limited factory rebates.
The people at Buick GMC are friendly and helpful. The whole process was quick and easy.
Katie kept open and honest communication with me the whole time
I was helped at the front checkin desk by Katie. She was friendly, efficient and very knowledgeable. The techs answered all my questions to my complet...
Helpful and friendly
The overall experience was good, the one thing that I wasn't super stoked about was being told to wait for the shuttle driver until 7:30, but when I w...
every thing went smooth and pretty quick .
I was immediately greeted and my car was taken right away to the repair center. I waited for an hour and they changed my oil and rotated my tires. I e...
Fast, friendly and competent!
We had an initial issue as there was an internal miscommunication at the dealer, but they quickly corrected it, apologized, and gave us great customer...
Did a excellent job and made it easy


text:
|08 August 2013
random acts of kindness
Petar Stamenkovic
Novi Sad, Serbia
Originally Posted by Erka2: 3ds max needs another Steve Jobs, not the Tom Hudson.
Steve did everything he could to slow down and sabotage development of realtime 3d. His ideology is responsible for the poor condition Mac pro line has found themselves in the last decade. Ever since they switched to Intel CPUs, Macs had great computing powers with extremely limed GPU capabilities. Mac pros have been using 2-year-old-barely-midrange-in-their-time GPUs for a very long time now- when you buy the latest and greatest (read most expensive) Mac pro- you'll get the mentioned 2-year old midrange GPU- if you're lucky.
To matters worse, OpenGL is still dependant on "professional" cards to work without the artificial limitations and any hope of a Mac user to do 3d is hindered at every turn. It is both extremely costly in both money, and then productivity limitation that OpenGL imposes even when not artificially limited. Khronos group did an admirable job, but at best, they are playing catch up to DX and Apple did less than nothing to help.
Jobs was a great man and a visionary to be sure, but 3d just wasn't his forte. In short, I wouldn't let Steve Jobs come in a 10 mile radius of my Max. Not that he would want to, anyway. He clearly had no love for 3d and Cook is following in those footsteps. Jobs may have liked the cartoons, but he showed no appreciation for what goes into making one.
Ideas drift like petals on the wind. You need only to lift your face to the breeze.
|share thread
« Previous Thread | Next Thread »


text:
"Pleasant flight with a lot of leg room"
Berkeley199015 August 2018
"It got the job done, poor customer service"
Rachel C14 August 2018
"Average seating space"
keith r w15 August 2018
"Business class was average"
Highflier15 August 2018
TripAdvisor uses cookies to improve your site experience. Learn more or change your settings. By continuing, you consent to our cookies.


text:
New Music: Jordin Sparks – 'They Don't Give'...
Friday, 31 July 2015 21:11:00
Labels: Jordin Sparks , New Music
Labels: Jordin Sparks , New Music
Jordin Sparks unveils another new song 'They Don't Give,' off her new album 'Right Here Right Now' (due August 21st). It's a nostalgic love ballad about the odds being stacked against her relationship. However, when it comes to her man, it's them against the world.


text:
One by one, the seeded giants have fallen this weekend in the NCAA baseball regionals.
Florida. Florida State. South Carolina. Miami. That Ragin' Cajuns team from Louisiana.
And that loud thump that loomed late Saturday night was the nationally seeded TCU Horned Frogs.
For want of a timely hit — any hit, actually — the Frogs squandered a masterful pitching performance by Preston Morrison and found themselves mired in extra innings for the second consecutive night.
With Morrison gone, the Sam Houston State Bearkats made the most of two TCU fielding misplays in the bottom of the eighth inning to tie the score 2-2.
Throughout the Frogs' monthlong drive into the postseason, defense and opportunistic offense had seldom failed them. But both did Saturday night.
Two botched fly balls in the first inning led to the first Sam Houston run. The eighth-inning rally began with Frogs second baseman Garrett Crain losing sight of Luke Plucheck's pop-up.
Plucheck came in to score when third baseman Derek Odell failed to cleanly field Hayden Simerly's grounder.
For the Frogs, winners of 28 of their last 31 games, trouble came as simply as that.
When your lineup isn't hitting the ball consistently, all the mistakes can seem large.
Morrison's effort was matched by the Bearkats' Jason Simms, a senior from Argyle who was a reliever before this season. Simms went seven innings and allowed the Frogs only five hits, four of them singles.
TCU had multiple base runners against Simms only in the sixth inning, when they put together a walk, a sacrifice and Boomer White's single to score their second run. Other than that, Simms only faced one batter over the minimum from the first out of the first inning through the fifth inning.
You could blame it on the new bats. That's always a convenient refrain around college baseball these days.
You could also blame it on TCU's home park, where home runs are spotted about as often as unicorns.
But the Frogs have been living — and winning — with all that for the whole season.
Pitching and defense have been the Frogs' bread and butter. And when the latter failed them Saturday night, the timely hitting wasn't there to save them.
Morrison did his thing, going 7 1/3 innings and allowing only three hits. In 15 Morrison starts coming into the tournament, opponents batted only .200 against him.
His first inning of the night Saturday, however, was not without controversy. Sam Houston base runner Carter Burgess, sliding into second base, was ruled out for interference, erasing a throwing error that would have given the Bearkats at least a second run.
As the night went on, the lost run blossomed in importance.
But Morrison did his part. From the second through seventh innings, he held Sam Houston hitless.
Stellar pitching, we have been reminded this weekend, tends to abound in the NCAA Tournament's first couple of days. Stingy pitching helped to speed the end of top seeds Florida and Florida State and send others into the losers bracket.
The Frogs labored long into the night Saturday not to become one of them.


text:
Contact Information
Woodsprings Animal Clinic primarily focuses on cats and dogs. However, we have fully trained professionals ready to handle ferrets, rabbits, snakes, lizards and other exotic animals. We provide all levels of care with a specialty in surgery.
Woodsprings Animal Clinic offers early morning drop-off service as well as 24-hour emergency care service for our clients.
Woodsprings Animal Clinic
2408 Alexander Drive
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Phone: 870-933-7077
Business Hours:
Monday: 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday, 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. - Noon
Sunday: Boarding Pickup and
Drop-off Only from
5 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.


text:
"Parenting" magazine's list of fun places to take kids includes amusement parks, farms, zoos, aquariums, sporting events and museums. "Philadelphia" magazine adds mini-golf, bowling, indoor rock-climbing and trampolining facilities as potential day-trip destinations for kids. "Kiplinger" also suggests taking kids to the public library as a fun and free option.Continue Reading
Children of different ages enjoy different activities. "Travel and Leisure" suggests planning age-appropriate trips to destinations that attract other families with children. School-age children are at just the right age to get the most enjoyment out of visits to a character-themed amusement park, such as Disneyland, or experiences as junior rangers at a national park. For older children and teens, involve them in the planning process to find activities they would enjoy or places they would like to visit. "Parenting" also advises parents to be aware that some attractions, especially at amusement parks, have minimum height restrictions.
Both "Philadelphia" and "Parenting" suggest kid-oriented exhibits and programming at museums, aquariums and zoos as fun, educational and interactive options.
"Kiplinger" notes that public libraries also often have children's programming, including free children's theater, book clubs and workshops. On selected weekend days, some The Home Depot and Lowe's stores offer workshops and clinics for children to work with wood or learn home improvement skills. Alternatively, a dollar store can be a fun place to take children to learn about budgeting their allowances and pick up a few small prizes in the process. Finally, consider window-shopping at a pet store. Kids are often mesmerized by the array of pets available.Learn more about Geography


text:
13054 Canal Road Unit E • Gulfport, MS
We service, repair, maintain and install all makes and models or Air Conditioning and Heating Systems
At Barnes Heating and Air we take responsibility for quality. We offer the best home comfort products along with reliable advice on how those products can best work for you.
We are dedicated to satisfying our customers. We believe in respecting our customers, listening to their requests and understanding their needs.
We are a full service company offering installation, service and new construction setup to residential and commercial customers across Mississippi.
Turn to the experts at Barnes Heating and Air to improve your home or business comfort and efficiency.
Our Services
Air Conditioning Repair
New A/C System Installation
Precision Tune-Ups
Indoor Air Quality
13054 Canal Road Unit E • Gulfport, MS
Hours: Monday - Friday • 7:30 - 4:30
Please call 228-832-9457
Site designed by Velocity.


text:
Latest figures show almost 20pc of shares in Weir, the FTSE 100 company, are being shorted – or sold down – ahead of a trading statement on Wednesday.
The short position, of 18.6pc, is almost 20 times that of the average FTSE 100 company, of approximately 1pc, according to information from Data Explorers.
It has risen from 6.6pc at the start of the year, as investors bet that the company's interest in the American fracking market will backfire.
Fracking is a relatively new technique using hydraulic fracturing to access gap trapped in shale rock at low cost. Weir's SPM business is a market leader in providing pumps to the industry, but it accounts for just 9pc of group sales.
Hedge funds have taken the positions with the view that the US gas price will fall, making fracking less economic. At the same time, Weir's own house broker, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, has downgraded its forecasts for 2013.
Last week, analyst Alex Toms said, due to more cautious comments regarding SPM than expected, it has cut its earnings per share estimate for next year to 9pc below consensus forecasts. A Weir spokesman declined to comment.


text:
A supplement to the qqAmerican National Biographyqq that offers approximately 500 biographical entries. This edition recounts the tales of the different people who shaped America-leaders, composers, entertainers, entrepreneurs, writers, scientists, and outlaws. The entries bring forth a narrative of America's past.A brief autobiographical essay is aPreserving the Heritage, a in First Person Singular, ed. ... orthopedic surgeon and one of the first two black students to desegregate the University of Georgia, was born Hamilton Earl Holmes in Atlanta , Georgia, anbsp;...
|American National Biography
|Mark C. Carnes
|Oxford University Press - 2005-05-12
You must register with us as either a Registered User before you can Download this Book. You'll be greeted by a simple sign-up page.
Once you have finished the sign-up process, you will be redirected to your download Book page.How it works:


text:
The Asian Futures Trading Group has been established in July 2003 by a team of financial professionals and IT/Technology experts. Since August 2013 Asian FTG has launched the website: www.asian-ftg.com. The website was launched to keep a close contact to clients and customers and to be up to date with the latest developments in the industry.
For the Asian Futures Trading Group Charitable Foundation Ann Guohua has been appointed as the organization's Chief Philanthropic Officer.
As Ann Guohua was appointed Asian Futures Trading Group Charitable Foundation President, Mr. Gill T. Ping stated: "Ann Guohua and her proven success in relationship management is extremely valuable in FTG's efforts to have deeper, more strategic conversations with their donors on how they can effectively fulfill their philanthropic goals and amplify their impact through a consolidated blueprint for giving."
The Hong Kong Business Journal recognized Ms. Guohua as a "Woman of Distinction". The Hong Kong College graduate is a board chair emeritus of the HK Career Center and a member of the Forum of Business Women.
The Asian Futures Trading Group is clearing more than 100,000 client accounts. FTG provides a full range of services to the industry's largest global network of introducing brokers (IBs) and to institutional, commercial, individual and international clients. These include more than 200 IBs and many of the world's largest agricultural, industrial and financial institutions.
The Asian Futures Trading Group is a premium partner for it's clients when it comes to finance and charity.
For more info about Asian FTG – Asian Futures Trading Group and the Charitable Foundation of FTG, please visit: http://www.asian-ftg.com/
Company Name: Asian FTG
Contact Person: Jason Green
Email: Send Email
Phone: +85258019271
Address:Millennium West Tower, 387B Kwun Tong Road
City: Kwun Tong
State: Kowloon
Country: HongKong
Website: http://www.asian-ftg.com/


text:
TheFW Staff
Smart Aleck Kid Mouths Off to Fireworks-Inquiring Reporter
Kids really do say the darnedest things.
Study Reveals America's Most (And Least) Patriotic State
Are you proud to be an American? Maybe, but you'd be hard-pressed to be as proud as the people in this state.
'Watermelon Dresses' Are Dominating Instagram (And What Is a Watermelon Dress, Anyway?)
One of summer's most refreshing treats is also one of the season's most unusual fashion choices.
Weatherman Predicting Wind Nearly Gets Blown Away
This forecast was right on the money.
Watch a Troubled Flight Shake Like a 'Washing Machine'
How this flight touched down safely is a miracle.
Watch Motorcyclist Kick Car, Trigger Ugly Road Rage Wreck
This is one of the nastier road rage accidents you'll see.
Spinning Boy Endures Hilariously Adorable Walking Fail
What happens to this kid is no surprise, but it's still funny. Very funny.
Girl's Tongue Stuck to Popsicle Is Pure Slapstick Summer Silliness
A delicious and refreshing treat turned into a delicious and refreshing problem.
Befuddled Weatherman Has No Clue What 'Swinging' Means
This guy is swinging into viral infamy.


text:
Chicago Bulls at Washington Wizards
Time: 8:05 PM ET, Apr 25, 2014
Spread: WAS -2.5
Total: 182
Betting odds courtesy of Bovada
Excitement is building in Washington following the Wizards taking the first two games at the United Center to take a 2-0 series lead in this best of seven. With the series back in Washington, Wizards owner Ted Leonsis implored fans to come out for a "full game of basketball…please."
Whether the Wiz have a full arena at tip off or not, NBA oddsmakers have given a 2.5 point edge to the Wizards in Game 3 action Friday night.
The Wizards were not an overwhelmingly threatening team at home this season. The Wiz finished 22-19 at home and ranked 18th in attendance. In the four sellout games, however, the Wizards won: two over the Miami Heat, once over the Brooklyn Nets and a victory over the Thunder.
Washington is establishing itself as a tough team to defend in the pick and roll, guided by a hot shooting backcourt. Bradley Beal and John Wall combined to shoot 15-of-35 for 42 points in game two, while Nene contributed another strong game from the 4-spot with 17 points, seven rebounds and three assists.
The Wiz will hope to get more from center Marcin Gortat, who struggled in game two, hitting just 2-of-9 from the floor. Gortat averaged 13.2 points, 9.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks this season while posting an above-average PER of 17.66. He had been playing well prior to game two, and over his last 10 contests, the Polish Hammer is posting 14.9 points and 10.4 rebounds per game.
The Bulls have found that its lack of offense is likely going to be its demise. Chicago ranked last in the league in scoring this season (93.7 points per game), and it's been tougher to generate offense in the playoffs. D.J. Augustin is having a phenomenal series, but he's getting very little help. The 5'10" combo guard had 25 points and seven assists in game two, but the Bulls are getting very little from Carlos Boozer and Jimmy Butler.
Joakim Noah was selected as 2014 Defensive Player of the Year and he's been huge in the Bulls success this season, but his big assist numbers have vanished in the playoffs. Noah had just three dimes in game two to go with his 20 points and 12 rebounds.
At the times when the Bulls have most struggled finding good shots this season, it has been Noah that has been making the plays. But Gortat has been frustrating Noah and doing his best to keep the former Florida Gator out of his comfort zones.
CHI Trends: 0-4 ATS in last 4 when opponent scores 100 points or more in previous game; OVER 6-0 in last 6 Conference Quarterfinals games; UNDER 6-0 in last 6 games on 2 days rest.
WAS Trends: OVER 4-0 in last 4 overall; OVER 4-0 in last 4 following ATS win; OVER 4-0 in last 4 after scoring 100 points or more in previous game.
Head-to-head: Bulls 2-8 ATS in last 10 meetings; UNDER 17-5-1 in last 23 meetings in Washington; Bulls 6-2 ATS in last 8 meetings in Washington.


text:
Mobile Veterinarian in Richmond, VA
Capital Home Veterinary Care
Welcome to Capital Home Veterinary Care! We are a mobile housecall veterinary practice providing comprehensive health care services to companion animals in Richmond and surrounding counties of Henrico, Powhatan, Midlothian, Chesterfield and Goochland since 2007. Our goal is to provide life-long veterinary care for cats and dogs with compassion, commitment, and extraordinary service.
We offer routine preventive and wellness care, early detection and treatment of a wide range of animal diseases, full reference laboratory and minor surgical care. When the time comes, we also offer hospice care and private in-home pet euthanasia. Capital Home Veterinary Care has the expertise to provide the veterinary care your pet needs. Most importantly, all of this is performed a few steps away from your home! Your pet no longer needs to travel to receive great medical care. There are no car rides or waiting room stressors with a mobile visit!
Please browse our website to learn more about the Veterinary Services we provide for companion animals. Read information about Our Staff, view our Pet Library, find helpful tutorials and videos, read testimonials, or request an appointment on the site. You can also read about our in-home pet euthanasia services and what to expect during an in-home pet euthanasia visit and watch a video to help guide you through the process.
Our friendly and professional staff is here to answer any questions you may have about our services. Call or email Capital Home Veterinary Care today.


text:
Join our unique resource for Olympus Four Thirds E-System DSLR and Pen and OM-D Micro Four Thirds photographers. Show your images via our free e-group photo gallery. Please read the e-group.uk.net forum terms and conditions before posting for the first time. Above all, welcome!
|Forum Index
|Olympus Hire
|Members List
|Social Groups
|Today's Posts
|Mark Forums Read
These are the 70 most-searched-for thread tagsSearch Tag Cloud
|14-42mm 17mm 50-200 af targeting pad batteries battery birds blank screen blinkies bride bridge c-8080 c-af dim calibration cf cover clamshell colour e-5 e-300 e-m1 e-m1 mark ii e-m1 mkii e-m5 mark ii e-pl5 e-pm1 elb400 elinchrom em-5 hld-6 em1 em1mkii emi markii features firmware fl-900r flash for sale future grip haiku iso kingfisher lens location lighting mk i nature olympus omd pancake pen pen-f portrait priority raw raw+jpg remote control review rg-1 screen settings shutdown speedlights tablet unresponsive updater vf-2 viwer 3 wedding wildlife zoom zuiko


text:
4652 Clovelly Walk, West Vancouver MLS®: R2279104
Incredible, totally private and level lot on this most sought after country lane in Caulfeild. Almost 22,000 sq. ft. Comes with a full set of plans from Formwerks Architectural Inc. A rare opportunity.
Taxes (2017): $7,639.92
Similar Listings
Listed By: Royal LePage Sussex
Disclaimer: Listing data is based in whole or in part on data generated by the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley Real Estate Board which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy.


text:
Cell Organisation part 1
HideShow resource information
- Created by: ShadowHunterXD18
- Created on: 21-04-16 17:50
What is the order from smallest to largest of cells?
Organelle, Cell, Tissue, Organ, Organ System, Organism
1 of 47
What is the order from smallest to largest of muscles?
Nucleus, muscle cell, Muscle, heart, Circulatory system, Human
2 of 47
What are proteins?
long chains of amino acids
3 of 47
What are enzymes?
a biological catalyst made up of Protein
4 of 47
What is the enzymes role?
to speed up reactions
5 of 47
What is the lock and key method?
enzyme attaches To substrate, specific shape for substrates and breaks it down into smaller pieces
6 of 47
What does fat break down into?
fat--lipase--glycerol+fatty acid
7 of 47
What does protein break down into?
protein--protease--amino acids
8 of 47
What does starch break down into?
9 of 47
Name 4 adaptions for exchange in the small intestine:
Large Surface area, Thin wall, Good blood supply, Wet surface
10 of 47
Name the parts of the respiratory system:
Heart, Lung, Liver, Trachea, Larynx
11 of 47
What is the larynx essential for in the respiratory system?
Larynx: The larynx is essential to human speech
12 of 47
What is the tranchea in the respiratory sysytem?
Trachea: Located just below the larynx, the trachea is the main airway to the lungs
13 of 47
What are the lungs responsible for in the respiratory system?
Lungs: Together the lungs form one of the body's largest organs. They're responsible for providing oxygen to capillaries and exhaling carbon dioxide.
14 of 47
What does the diaphram do in the respiratory system?
Diaphragm: The diaphragm is the main respiratory muscle that contracts and relaxes to allow air into the lungs.
15 of 47
What does the heart do in the respiratory system?
The heart pumps the blood throughout the body to distribute the oxygen to all the tissues and to bring the carbon dioxide back to the lungs to be exhaled.
16 of 47
What does the liver do in the respiratory system?
Liver: Largest solid organ in the body, filters harmful chemicals from going through the body and stores them inside the organ
17 of 47
Why are parts covered in a layer of white fat cells?
Because it provides energy storage and insulation in the tissue e.g. the adipose tissue
18 of 47
How many pumps does the heart have?
The Heart has two pumps that beat together about 70 times a min
19 of 47
What does one carry in the heart?
One carries blood from your heart to your lungs and back
20 of 47
What does the other carry?
The other carries blood around the rest of your body and back again
21 of 47
What animal is this vital too?
This is vital for WARM blooded active animals
22 of 47
What are the walls that protect the heart called?
Coronary arteries-Walls of heart are supplied by own blood supply
23 of 47
Both the artery and the vein has the same features, but how are they different?
Because the artery is a round circle whereas the vein is more of an oval shape
24 of 47
The capillary is also a blood vessel, but how is this one different to the others?
It is smaller in size and has a single layer of endothelial cells and a nucleus of endothelial cells
25 of 47
What do the arteries do?
Carry blood away from the heart and Carry oxygenated blood (except for the pulmonary artery)
26 of 47
what does the artery wall consist of?
A basement membrane, a tunica intima, a tunica media and a tunica externa
27 of 47
List 4 things that the arteries do or do not have:
High pressure, Small lumen, Does have a pulse, No valves
28 of 47
The arteries have thick muscular walls, but how many layers do they have?
3 layers
29 of 47
What are the 3 layers made up of?
Thin tough outer layer, Thick muscular middle layer, Thin inner layer of cells
30 of 47
What do the veins do?
Carry blood toward the heart and Carry deoxygenated blood
31 of 47
What does the vein consist of?
A tunica intima, a tunica media and a tunic externa
32 of 47
List 4 things that the vein has or not:
Low pressure, Large lumen, Does not have a pulse, Valves present
33 of 47
The vein has thinner more flexible walls, but how many layers does it have?
3 layers like the arteries
34 of 47
What are the 3 layers made up of?
Thick tough outer layer, Muscular middle layer, Thin inner layer of cells
35 of 47
What do the capillaries do?
Penetrate all tissues
36 of 47
Are the capillaries narrow?
Very narrow – only one cell wide
37 of 47
What happens in a cell in the capillaries?
One cell thick walls – allows transport of oxygen and nutrient into body cells and wastes out of cells
38 of 47
What do the capillaries consist of?
An arteriole, a venule, an artery, capillaries, tissue cells and a vein
39 of 47
What are white blood cells for?
They find and destroy pathogens and can change shape = engulf pathogens
40 of 47
What is plasma?
Plasma is the liquid part of blood
41 of 47
What are plasma blood cells for?
Transport soluble substances, Liquid = substances can dissolve and contains platelets = clump together to clot wounds/ stop bleeding
42 of 47
What else travels in blood plasma?
Glucose, ions, carbon dioxide, urea, proteins, hormones, amino acids, other sugars, Anything that needs to get transported around in our body
43 of 47
What are red blood cells for?
They Carry oxygen around the body and are Made of haemoglobin which Binds to oxygen in lungs = oxyhaemoglobin. Oxygen dropped off at tissues.
44 of 47
Red blood cells are:
Flexible = fit in small spaces, Small/compact = large surface are, have No nucleus = space for more oxygen,
45 of 47
What is an advantage of artificial hearts?
useful where no other treatment is available or patient is near to death
46 of 47
What are the disadvantages
low success rate, device has limited lifespan/battery ill need changing, discomfort from heart, risk of infection
47 of 47
Other cards in this set
Card 2
What is the order from smallest to largest of muscles?
Nucleus, muscle cell, Muscle, heart, Circulatory system, Human
Card 3
What are proteins?
Card 4
What are enzymes?
Card 5
What is the enzymes role?
No comments have yet been made


text:
Feminism is an interesting topic to look at in the context of today's college students because in many ways they're leading what I call the third wave of feminism and it's a wave that ironically is in many ways personified by Lady Gaga.
Lady Gaga embraces her sexuality, but it's okay for her and for women today to be sexy and smart, to be sexual and serious, to embrace sexual liberation without having baggage attached to it by either men or women. And what we're finding in today's college students is very much a culture that embraces feminism, but not feminism from an activist's point of view, but feminism from a women's rights point of view.
It's naturally embraced because these kids in college grew up on the Internet where human equality is a birthright, where acceptance of diversity is embraced. Women's rights are a norm. They're expected. It's not something to be encouraged or enforced. And in that same way, sexuality is embraced and accepted as a woman's right.
So what we're finding for this generation that's grown up on the Internet, whether you're a woman or a man or whether you're black or white or Asian makes no difference. You don't know the differences when they exist on the Internet. They go into their day-to-day experiences in much the same way and embrace feminism, embrace diversity, embrace human equality in the same way they do online.
In Their Own Words is recorded in Big Think's studio.
Image courtesy fo Shutterstock.


text:
Build Guide by Lord Wevilspore
Not Updated For Current Season
This guide has not yet been updated for the current season. Please keep this in mind while reading. You can see the most recently updated guides on the browse guides page.
Thank You!
Your votes and comments encourage our guide authors to continue
creating helpful guides for the League of Legends community.
Cho'Gath Build
Ability Sequence
Not Updated For Current Season
The masteries shown here are not yet updated for the current season, the guide author needs to set up the new masteries. As such, they will be different than the masteries you see in-game.
Major rework
AP heavy Cho'Gath. Use either smite against the mid wraiths for early xp or go for exhaust if you are going to end up laning.
Open either with Meki Pendant and convert to Deathfire grasp or, if the enemy team has no potential tanks, open with Faerie Charm and convert to Tear of Goddess then eventually to Archangel's Staff.
If your team is doing poorly, get Warmog's Armor instead.
How is this build now?


text:
Dictionary of Euphemisms & Other Doubletalk
Dave Wilton, Friday, January 05, 2007
Rawson, Hugh. Rawson's Dictionary of Euphemisms and Other Doubletalk. 2002 reprint ed. Edison, N. J.: Castle Books, 1995.
As the title suggests, this book focuses on euphemisms and slang.
Filed under: Profanity/Swearing/Euphemism
Page 1 of 1 pages
Powered by ExpressionEngine
Copyright 1997-2018, by David Wilton
Copyright 1997-2018, by David Wilton


text:
Welcome to The Bonnington Bar
Your local bar in Leith, Edinburgh
Real Ales, Live Music and Dog Friendly Scottish Bar!
Come and relax at the Bonnington Bar and try our refreshing selection of rotating real ales, fine wines, champagne, processco or just a soft drink! We serve a selection of freshly prepared food until 8.30pm everyday! Watch live sports in the bar and relax with a hot drink whilst you browse online with our FREE Wi-Fi! We also welcome dogs at the Bonnington bar! We host a regular pub quiz nights and live entertainment at the Bonnington bar! View the up and coming events!
Sign up to our mailing list and like us on Facebook to hear the latest news at the Bonnington Bar.
We look forward to seeing you soon...


text:
Say it visually.
Find and work with animators, designers and artists. Whenever you need it. 24/7.
Have a design challenge?
Work remotely through our fully serviced on-line platform or meet your designer. Get your rendering, animation, UX and UI projects done on time, to budget and with the best professionals.
Conceptual Sketches
Art & Illustration
Graphic Design
UX, UI & Web Design
CAD & Render
Collaborate with junior, intermediate and highly experienced professionals.
Every design job you do through our remote creative agency is reviewed for Quality and fully managed on-line.
Bo M
I'm a illustrator who likes to dabble in 2D animation and narrative work. Science fiction, fantasy and LGBT subject matter is where much of my work lies, and I'm currently completing my Masters of Design.
Isabelle M
Designer - UX + UI, illustration, print and identity. GD DIP YB 2010 GMA DIP YB 2012 Currently studying BDI at Victoria University Based in Wellington, New Zealand.
Zoe E
As a pro-active, innovative and creative designer specializing in Architectural Drawings, Rendering and 3D modeling, managed two businesses over the last five years.
Are you a freelancer with a portfolio to show?
Work directly with your designers, animators and artists. Connect with the right talent when you need it.
Tap helps companies in New Zealand, Australia and UK get design projects done quickly and to the budget. It's hassle-free, fast and simple.
Upload your Project
Meet your designer/s
Work Remotely or F2F
Get your Finals On-time
Focus on your core business. Use Tap when you need professional UX, UI, animation, design and render services
Startups and young companies
Set your budget or get a quote
Established companies
Scout talent. Find ideal designers.
Urgent and one-off jobs
Set your time-frames. Get matched right away.
When you need niche skills
From CAD drawings to rendering services and 3D models -we have a wide range of expertise.
Personal Projects
Connect with creators who love what you are up to.


text:
Senators showed no backbone on guns
I am outraged and sickened that our Senate has been bought and paid for by big money/gun special interests. There was absolutely no reason not to pass the background checks into law as 90 percent of Americans supported it. But these cowardly senators care more about retaining their high-paying, full-benefits jobs and keeping the favor of the powerful gun lobby than they do about children massacred in senseless attacks.
Until we fix our broken Congress and Senate we will never be a great nation again. We will never do big things when we cannot even do the right thing on an issue like background checks. I implore everyone who is in the 90 percent who supported background checks to see if your senator voted against this and, if so, vote them out next election.
John Staples


text:
Hajanlet was one of the village elders of the Mud People.
Biography Edit
Hajanlet was amongst the village elders who refusd to grant a gathering for Richard Rahl during his quest to defeat Darken Rahl. However, Richard returned the lives and honor of the elders after Siddin was almost killed by spirits summoned by the Night Stone. Hajanlet then confirmed Richard and Kahlan as Mud People and took part in the gathering that Richard requested.
Hajanlet was also one of the elders that took part in a later gathering requested by Richard.
Appearances Edit
- Wizard's First Rule (First appearance)
- Stone of Tears


text:
- Huge Tokyo 2020 boost for SA Paralympians
- Team SA named for African Youth Games
- SASCOC condolences for wrestling fraternity
- SASCOC host breakfast of appreciation for NLC
- Team SA kit unveiled ahead of Commonwealth Games
- Wilson named in Team SA for Winter Olympics
- President's Voice – Gideon Sam
CEO's Chair ÔÇô Tubby Reddy
- Updated: August 27, 2012
One to remember and one to look forward to… that's the latest update from Olympic House.
We recently got back from what can only be termed an extremely successful Olympic Games in London.
Six medals, three of them gold, represents Team South Africa's best performance at an Olympic Games since we returned to the international sporting fold in Barcelona, back in 1992.
Hats off to all our medal winners, those who came very close to medalling and indeed to the entire team who truly gave their all. Thanks also to the officials under Project Manager Chef de Mission Patience Shikwambana and the administration team who saw to it that the team were able to perform.
And thank you also to the host nation Britain, who put on a truly memorable Games.
Now we have headed back to London for the Paralympic Games which start on 29 August and end on 9 September, slightly shorter than the Games.
South Africa and the Paralympics have always had an extremely happy relationship and we seem to perform superbly at these Games. In Beijing we ended sixth on the table with 30 medals and ideally we would want to equal or better that performance.
Having said that its going to be no easy task as the world of Paralympic sport gets tougher and tougher. I must take this opportunity to wish all our Paralympians well at these Games as they settle in under the leadership of Chef de Mission Pieter Badenhorst.
Since we got back from the Olympics we were able to fit in our Annual General Meeting here at Olympic House and the positive vibe was great to see. Our success at the Olympics has clearly rubbed off on the various National Federations and I have no doubt that they will be even more determined to produce a whole new generation of Olympic (and Paralympic) stars going forward.
PS ÔÇô I have been amused by the column from the ÔÇ£Sports JokerÔÇØ to ÔÇ£Wannabee-JournalistÔÇØ, and now ÔÇ£the Boxing AfficionadoÔÇØ!
Not even into Round 2.
This individual believes that he boxes against ÔÇ£a heavyweight administration that punches low, below its weightÔÇØ. Or does he mean he throws a low-blow punch?
I therefore pose the following for him to ponder, prior to punching out: ÔÇô is he sure that the information being supplied to him (which I must presume arises from disgruntled officials or individuals), is in fact correct, accurate and truthful?┬á His contention that he will withdraw any incorrect information published would be interesting.┬á As to the statement that he would gladly retract same ÔÇô let's see if he is true to his word.
He makes mention of Investec and their support for the Women's Hockey Team ÔÇô surely a man of his so-called Sporting Knowledge would be well aware of the provisions of the Olympic Charter with regard to national federations personal sponsors and how they relate to the country's national team i.e. Team South Africa.┬á Is he suggesting that we have ÔÇ£Investec South AfricaÔÇØ, ÔÇ£Barclays Bank of Great BritainÔÇØ, ÔÇ£Morgan Stanley, United StatesÔÇØ and ÔÇ£Bank of China, ChinaÔÇØ?┬á┬á Surely not, he must be jesting!
The fact that all national federations were made aware of these provisions long before they engaged in sponsorship agreements, must have slipped his mind.  As did the fact that SASCOC has repeatedly on numerous occasions endeavoured to resolve the issues between the national sponsor and the federations, as we successfully did with SASOL and Banyana Banyana which must have also slipped his mind.
Believe it or not we are in agreement with something:  his example of Lance Armstrong is certainly not the right one in regard to sporting behaviour.
The so-called ÔÇ£self-preserving systemÔÇØ is also a neat little jab, but misplaced, and would suggest he takes the trouble to look at the Sport and Recreation Act together with the amendments thereto, as well as SASCOC's Memorandum and Articles- which were in existence long before Team SA 2012.┬á Has he ever considered why it is only now that Power Boat South Africa or the disgruntled officials thereof, raise their hands in protest?
FACT:  Mr Marais is, as he mentions, appointed by the Board of SASCOC and endorsed by the entire membership to look into the affairs of Power Boat SA due to the fact that the membership of PSA complained about the executives not complying with corporate governance and their own Constitution. Where were the audited financial statements that the federation is obliged to give to their members on an annual basis?
Why have the now terminated executive members refused to allow  auditors Deloitte to conduct an investigative/forensic audit into their affairs, and  further refused to hand over to either the administrator or to the auditors the financial documents or banking records?
FACT: In fact he has not had sight of Cost Orders against Power Boat SA and the now terminated former executive members, nor has he had sight of the Court Orders against them in their personal capacity.  Surely a man of his stature would have perused the Court Orders?
FACT:  Why did the terminated previous executive members of Power  Boat SA sign a contract with a foreign promoter which required a substantial deposit to be paid upfront to stage an international event in the Republic,  without consulting with either the Department of Sport and/or SASCOC, in terms of the statutory requirements?  It seems it was good enough for the 2010 World Cup to comply, but not good enough for Power Boating.  Furthermore why was the membership not aware of this?  Surely those persons would implement the decisions of the membership?
Strange but true. Where are the funds of PSA?┬á Should they not be in an official bank account, or could there indeed be such a thing as┬á ÔÇ£Slush AccountÔÇØ or alternative accounts?┬á One would hope not, but┬á surely one must question where the deposit for the above event originated from, as it can only come from a national federation, whether it be to host a general assembly or any other event.
FACT:  The Sport of Power Boat SA is not suspended, and programmes in the various disciplines of Power Boating have, are, and will continue to be implemented for the benefit of the athletes, whilst the membership of the previous executive has been terminated by SASCOC in terms of their powers. Bearing in mind that these  are the same members who refuse to comply with the Administrator despite a court ruling for them to do so, and further object to the entire membership democratically electing a new executive to serve them.
FACT:  If  he was  in possession of the agreement relating to the F1 Nations Cup he would see the terms and conditions contained therein, and pose the same question:  Where did the deposit come from, and why a private promoter? Lots of punches!
FACT:  He again falls short in his analysis of both the Weightlifting and Equestrian cases.  A mere glance at the actual Court/ CAS Orders would clearly have cleared his dazed mind.
FACT:  His quoting of the salaries of myself as Chief Executive Officer, is quite astute- seeing that this is presumably derived from a public document in the audited financial statements approved and agreed upon by the membership.  Has he given any thought to comparing the salaries to those of other Federations and Section 21 Companies before gasping in amazement?  He would certainly stutter and stammer!
FACT:  He makes mention of duly elected officials in the Sport of Volleyball, and his contention of a Conflict of Interest.  I wonder if he has seen the Minutes of any Meeting of the Sport, or is even aware of any conflict of interest.  I certainly am not, and would not place the Sport or myself in any conflict situation, but obviously that does not warrant a mention by him.
FACT:  Maybe, before assuming the cost of air flights, you should check with SAA the cost of travel between different air lines, and even SASCOC's Partner Agreement before surmising it is more expensive.  Has he checked seat availability or has he secretly arranged an agreement with SAA on our behalf that they will always have seats available for SASCOC.
FACT:┬á His assumption and protestation at the athletes in the Olympic Village and at the Closing Ceremony ÔÇô surely he is aware that all federations were required to leave the village after their event had concluded?┬á This information had been made available to all concerned, and no questions were ever raised – long before Team SA was constituted or announced.
SECONDS OUT – ROUND 10 ÔÇô FINAL ROUND
Finally his contention relating to an investigation by the Public Protector – information that only he has knowledge of, and his further contention that our President is serving as a Trustee , is truly amazing investigative journalism!┬á He should consider looking at the definition of trustee and the duties of a trustee.┬á His final blow and┬á coup de grace ÔÇô an invitation in an open letter ÔÇô is a true ÔÇ£Haymaker PunchÔÇØ ÔÇô similar to┬á ÔÇ£stand up and let me hit you-┬á but please don't hit me backÔÇØ
I really do enjoy your column.
Yours in Sport,
Tubby Reddy


text:
Gentle and effective pain relief
Knee Pain
Knee pain is very common and is most often successfully treated with osteopathy, surgery is very rarely needed.
Shoulder Pain / Frozen Shoulder
Shoulder pain can seemingly come from nowhere or can happen as a result of a trauma during sports or an accident.
Back Pain
Osteopaths have become known for treating back pain and osteopathy offers an effective, affordable and natural solution for the problem.
Headaches & Neck Pain
The head and neck are a complex and delicate area and are worked upon frequently by osteopaths.
Suzanne has been working with me on a long standing back problem that I have. She has taken the time to get to know me and my lifestyle so as to take into account all factors that may be contributing to the problem.
Suzanne has been fantastic at taking in to account the whole body health and has brought in other areas of exercise and relaxation to support the work that she is doing. I would have no hesitation in recommending Suzanne and her Osteopathy Clinic.
I just had my first treatment with Suzanne. Superb job!! Suzzie is a very professional and talented osteopath. I learned a lot about my condition and came away feeling hopeful. I've had this back issue for a few years and I got a lot more from her in just one 45 minute treatment than I ever have from my surgeon and my GP! Thank you
I've been seeing Suzanne for a number of weeks now to help treat my migraines. I've got to say it's going amazing and my migraines have dropped from around 2-3 a week to roughly 1 in three weeks. For me these are brilliant results and hopefully if I continue to go they will become even less frequent. I would highly recommend anyone suffering from migraines to try this.
Brilliant! I came away feeling very positive. Thank you Suzanne.
Request an appointment
To request an appointment with Suzanne, please provide your contact information by filling out the form below. Alternatively, call Suzanne on 07804 277093 to discuss booking a session.


text: Blue for me is a very hard color to work with. I`m always afraid that it looks like someone has punched me in the face. And when I do a blue eye makeup it always looks the same. Like the pictures above. This look is perfect if your wearing a black dress for new year`s eve or even a white one. It brings a pop of color instead of just having a smoky eye or a natural one. Haha and don`t you just love my hair today? Haha. I hope this gives you some inspiration for your blue makeup look :)


text:
What to do when a patient refuses vaccines
Ethically, it's wrong to vaccinate a patient against his will. But is it equally wrong to stay quiet? What's the best way to handle vaccine refusal? Dr. Brady and Nurse Rebekah tackle this issue as we head into another flu season.
Dr. Brady: It's often frustrating for me when I'm caring for a patient whose parents haven't had her vaccinated. I want to give those parents a piece of my mind, but I now realize that unless they ask me for my opinion, it's probably a waste of time—actually, a waste of time that I really don't even have. I'm just too dang busy when I'm at work.
I definitely feel that one of my main roles as a doctor is to be a health educator, and I always do my best to fill that role. However, it's often too hectic to spend as much time teaching as I would like. So I choose my battles, and when there is an issue I feel strongly about, but know that my audience may not be that receptive, I sneak in a quick and/or subliminal comment or piece of advice. For a young smoker, I may do no counseling at all, but rather simply ask after listening to his lungs, "Do you smoke?" in a way that scares him into thinking I can actually hear lung cells dying. For the parents of the unvaccinated, where the spin and possible conspiracy theories are all so potentially confusing, I may say something that simplifies it and breaks it down into plain English: "I have kids, too. I made sure they were vaccinated." That is the most powerful seed I can plant.
Nurse Rebekah: I don't have kids yet, but I make sure my dogs get vaccinated! And I'm fairly sure that I would love my kids—most of the time—even more than I love my dogs.
People tend to believe that bad things will never happen to them. Until they do. And then hindsight is 20/20, right? Your health is your choice—just don't come crying to me in the ER when you're having full-blown spasms from tetanus or body aches and rigor from the flu. I won't say, "I told you so," but you'll know and I'll know that you should have gotten your vaccines.
I love the debate that's going on right now about vaccines. Whatever your viewpoint, it's healthy for science and for healthcare in general to have a vigorous debate about vaccination. Debates move science forward. I'm hoping this debate moves forward to that common cold vaccine—one I will definitely get in line for! Or a cellulite vaccine…or a gray hair vaccine…or….
Today, more than ever before, patients come to us with their own thoughts, ideas and opinions about medical interventions. So talk to your patients. See where they stand on vaccination. Really listen to what they have to say. And then figure out where to go from there.
Career, Career Advice for Nurses, Featured Articles, H1N1, Health, Seasoned Nurse
Brady Pregerson, MD, a returned Peace Corps volunteer and winner of the 1995 Wise Preventive Medicine Scholarship, completed his medical school at the University of California, San Diego, and his residency at Los Angeles County General Hospital. He has authored three medical pocket books for nurses and doctors, as well as the educational web sites erpocketbooks.com and gotsafety.org.Dr. Pregerson currently works as an emergency physician in Southern California. He writes, "Although the ED environment may be quite different from working on the hospital floor or in an office setting, I am hopeful that you can take these tips and apply them to your own specific work situation." You can buy his books on lessons from the ER, including Don't Try This At Home: Lessons from the Emergency Department and Think Twice: More Lessons from the ER, at amazon.com.
By Brady Pregerson, MD


text:
While I was on vacation in Pennsylvania,
I had the pleasure of visiting the
Jimmy Stewart Museum in Indiana, PA.
It is a large museum dedicated solely to the actor.
He was born & raised here.
His career spanned the years from 1932 to 1991.
He won an Academy award for his role in
"The Philadelphia Story" in 1940.
He starred in a total of 81 movies and numerous TV appearances.
Some of the most famous films were:
"Mr. Smith Goes to Washington",
"It's a Wonderful Life",
& "Harvey".
A movie camera at the entrance of the museum...
A poster of his commemorative stamp...
That's me with "Harvey"...
The home where he grew up. This is just a short distance from the museum...
A view taken from the end of the street where his home is...
If you ever get a chance to visit here, this is a very well done and thought out museum. Plan to spend some time here, there is so much to see. I am sure you will enjoy it as much as I did!
'Til next time, Love ya, Jean


text:
Republic of the Niger
Niger, officially the Republic of Niger, is a landlocked country in Western Africa, named after the Niger River. It borders Nigeria and Benin to the south, Burkina Faso and Mali to the west, Algeria and Libya to the north and Chad to the east. Its size is almost 1,270,000 km², making it the largest nation in West Africa, with a population of just under 13,300,000, mostly clustered in the far south and west of the nation. The capital city is Niamey.
Niger is one of the poorest and least developed countries in the world, with over 80% of its territory covered by the Sahara desert, and much of the rest threatened by periodic drought and desertification. The economy is concentrated around subsistence and some export agriculture clustered in the more fertile south, and the export of raw materials -- especially uranium ore. Niger remains handicapped by its landlocked position, poor education, infrastructure, health care, and environmental degradatio
Niger is a landlocked nation in West Africa located along the border between the Sahara and Sub-Saharan regions. Its geographic coordinates are latitude 16°N and longitude 8°E. Its area is 1,267,000 square kilometres (489,000 sq mi) of which 300 square kilometres (115 sq mi) is water. This makes Niger slightly less than twice the size of the U.S. state of Texas, and the world's twenty-second largest country (after Chad). Niger is comparable in size to Angola.
Niger borders seven countries on all sides and has a total of 5,697 kilometres (3,540 mi) of borders. The longest border is with Nigeria to the south (1,497 km; 930 mi). This is followed by Chad to the east, at 1,175 kilometres (730 mi), Algeria to the north-northwest (956 km; 594 mi), and Mali at 821 kilometres (510 mi). Niger also has small borders in its far southwest frontier with Burkina Faso at 628 kilometres (390 mi) and Benin at 266 kilometres (165 mi) and to the north-northeast (Libya at 354 kilometres (220 mi).
Niger's subtropical climate is mainly very hot and dry, with much desert area. In the extreme south there is a tropical climate on the edges of the Niger River basin. The terrain is predominantly desert plains and sand dunes, with flat to rolling savanna in the south and hills in the north.
The lowest point is the Niger River, with an elevation of 200 metres (722 ft). The highest point is Mont Idoukal-n-Taghès in the Aïr Massif at 2,022 metres (6,634 ft).
Niger also has a rich past as the geology and the famous dinosaur fossils demonstrate. Human presence in Niger goes back approximately 60,000 years. Rock carvings in the Aïr and Djado, in the deserts of the north of the country, testify to the former presence there of elephants and hippos at a time when the Sahara was lush and green. The no longer extant town of Takkada, also in the Aïr, was a centre of copper production from approx. 1360 BC. It was still active as such in 1354 AD, when it was mentioned by the traveller Ibn Battuta from Morocco.
Regional and local kingdoms waxed and waned throughout Niger until colonisation by the French took place around 1900. Niger as a sovereign nation has existed since 1960. Civilian and military governments have alternated over the past 40 years, but throughout that time Niger has on the whole been remarkably peaceful, unrest in the north of the country during the 1990s notwithstanding. Islam helps give the country a structure, and the people are very friendly. There are some seven major ethnic groups in Niger. French, however, is the most widely spoken language, and it adds a lot to your visit to Niger if you know at least a few words. Although lacking in tourist infrastructure outside Niamey, Parc du W and the Aïr, there certainly is suitable accommodation in Niger for birders on tight budgets.
Bird-wise much remains to be discovered in Niger. Only the area around the capital Niamey, Makalondi district and Parc National du W, all in the southwest of the country, and the Aïr Mountains in the north, have been birded more or less systematically. Even in those areas new species for the country are still found regularly. The country list stands at approximately 530 species at present. These include colourful Afrotropical residents, enigmatic Afrotropical migrants, and familiar Palearctic migrants in surroundings that make you appreciate them anew.
Niger has no endemic or restricted-range species, but it is an excellent country to see Sahara-Sindian, Sahelian and Sudan-Guinea Savanna biome species. The nature of the terrain and the vegetation are such that you actually get to see most birds, rather than only hear them. In many places you can also go off the beaten track quite easily. Only in the extreme southwest, in and around Parc National du W, do you need to watch out for large predators.
Banding and satellite-tracking studies have shown that Niger shares at least some of its birds with 80 other countries, from Guinea to the Shetland Islands, across Scandinavia to Russia and Kazakhstan, and via the Kaukasus, Middle East and East Africa down to Madagascar, South Africa and Namibia. For a further 7 countries, links are probable based on likely migration routes between banding and recovery locations. Further countries will no doubt be added as new information becomes available. With all these comings and goings, the composition of the avifauna of Niger truly changes all the time, throughout the year.
While in the country you will not want to miss the giraffes 70 km south-east of Niamey nor perhaps the hippos at Ayorou on the Niger River, near the border with Mali. When birding in Parc du W, you will obviously also enjoy looking for the considerable variety of antelope, monkeys, buffalo, elephants, and with a lot of luck even a lion, leopard or cheetah. In relaxed Niamey itself a visit to the National Museum is a must, with its various ethnological and natural history collections, and its artisans at work in an open shed. After a hard day birdwatching or sightseeing, don't forget to relax with a drink on the terrace of the Grand Hotel overlooking the Niger River watching the camels, pedestrians, motorbikes and cars cross the bridge, and the local longboats plying their trade. As the sun goes down you will see the flying foxes spreading out from their dormitories, pitch black in the fading light. You will be glad you came to Niger.
Joost Brouwer
Brouwer Envir. & Agric. Consultancy
Manager Niger Bird DataBase & ABC Niger Country Coordinator
Number of Species
Number of bird species: 530
iGoTerra Checklist
Fatbirder Associate iGoTerra offers the most comprehensive and up to date birds lists on the web
Useful Reading
Birds of Western Africa: An Identification Guide
Nik Borrow and Ron Demey Series: CHRISTOPHER HELM IDENTIFICATION GUIDE SERIES 832 pages, 147 col plates, 1100 dist maps. Christopher Helm
ISBN: 0713639598Buy this book from NHBS.com
Field Guide to the Birds of Western Africa
Nik Borrow and Ron Demey Series: HELM FIELD GUIDES 496 pages, 150 col plates, 1300 maps. Christopher Helm See Fatbirder Review
ISBN: 0713666927Buy this book from NHBS.com
African Bird Club
Bird-wise much remains to be discovered in Niger. Only the area around the capital Niamey, Makalondi district and Parc National du W, all in the south-west of the country, and the Aïr Mountains in the north, have been birded more or less systematically. Even in those areas new species for the country are still found regularly. The country list stands at approximately 530 species at present. These include colourful Afrotropical residents, enigmatic Afrotropical migrants, and familiar Palearctic migrants in surroundings that make you appreciate them anew…
West African Ornithological Society
The West African Ornithological Society grew out of the Nigerian Ornithologists' Society, which was founded in February 1964. Its object is to promote scientific interest in the birds of West Africa and to further the region's ornithology, mainly by means of its journal Malimbus (formerly the Bulletin of the Nigerian Ornithologists' Society). This journal is biannual and bilingual, a unique feature in Africa.The West African Ornithological Society grew out of the Nigerian Ornithologists' Society, which was founded in February 1964. Its object is to promote scientific interest in the birds of West Africa and to further the region's ornithology, mainly by means of its journal Malimbus (formerly the Bulletin of the Nigerian Ornithologists' Society). This journal is biannual and bilingual, a unique feature in Africa.
Aïr and Ténéré Natural Reserves
The resident avifauna of the region consists of Saharan, Saharo-Sahelian and Saharo-Montane residents (Newby et al., 1987). Sand grouse Pteroclididae, doves Columbidae, barbets Capidonidae, larks Alaudidae, crows and ravens Corvidae, buntings Emberizidae and weavers Ploceidae are the most conspicuous residents. The last significant population of the West African race of the ostrich, Struthio camelus camelus, estimated at 800 - 2,000 head, and substantial numbers of Nubian bustard, Neotis nuba also occur (Magin, 1990a). The reserve is visited by some 85 species of Palaearctic passage and overwintering migrants…
Lists of species and maximum counts found at each IBA mentioned below can be downloaded in a spreadsheet from Niger IBA checklist. Additional sites close to Niamey that are good for birding are mentioned in the section - Visiting…
W National Park
Some 150km southeast of Niamey, on the bank of the River Niger and extending to the point where the borders of Niger, Burkina Faso and Benin meet, in Niamey Department…
Trip Reports
CloudBirders was created by a group of Belgian world birding enthusiasts and went live on 21st of March 2013. They provide a large and growing database of birding trip reports, complemented with extensive search, voting and statistical features.
2008 [01 January] - Mary Crickmore
…Park W is one of these West African parks, located at the corner where the boundaries of Niger, Benin, and Burkina Faso meet. It is named for the 'W' shape that the Niger River forms in that part of its course. The northern entrance to Park W can be reached in about a two and a half hour drive from Niamey, the capital of Niger, over mostly good paved or laterite road. You need to have your own vehicle or go with an organized tour. You must always travel with a guide, and at the park entrance there are guides waiting their turn to be assigned…


text:
Press release 173/2017
9 October 2017
The 8th High-Level Seminar on Gender and Inclusive Mediation Processes is taking place in Helsinki between 10-12 October. Hosting the High-Level Seminar in Helsinki amid Finland's centenary celebrations marks Finland's historical legacy and expertise in peace-making and gender equality.
The seminar is an UN training aimed at advancing the participation of women in peace mediation and promoting the implementation of gender sensitive peace processes. The seminar is arranged by UN Department of Political Affairs together with Crisis Management Initiative (CMI) in Finland and Peace Research Institute of Oslo.
Finland and Norway provide the funding for the seminar which is held alternately in the two countries. Strengthening inclusive mediation and women's role in peace processes is a priority for Finland, and the seminar is also a showcase of Nordic cooperation in practice.
The seminar is hosted in collaboration with CMI, and brings together diverse mediation actors including UN envoys and high-level representatives from regional organizations, civil society and academia. Throughout the years, the seminar has proved to be a key forum in which senior mediators can learn from each other's experiences and share their practices.
Inquiries: Eero Väisänen, attaché, tel. +358 295 350 221, Unit for UN and General Global Affairs.
The Foreign Ministry's email addresses are in the format firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
(Jerry) is a member of the Brierley Resident Acting Company and co-founder of Second Thought Theatre. DTC: The Book Club Play; Les Misérables; Clybourne Park; Henry IV; The Beauty Plays; The Good Negro (a co-production with The Public Theatre in New York). Theatrical credits: King Lear (Trinity Rep); Love's Labour's Lost and The Cherry Orchard (Peterborough Players); Thom Pain (based on nothing), King Ubu, and The Glory of Living (Second Thought Theatre); Romeo and Juliet; As You Like It and A Midsummer Night's Dream (Shakespeare Dallas). TV: Chase; My Generation; Friday Night Lights; Trauma; Dallas; Salvation; Prison Break; Mammas Dallas.
is a member of the Brierley Resident Acting Company and has worked extensively at DTC and other regional theaters around the country. In addition to her work on stage, she is a voice over and media actress and is proud to be represented by The Mary Collins Agency. Sally was a 2011 Lunt-Fontanne Fellowship Award recipient, and is a Co-Founder and company member of Dallas' Kitchen Dog Theater. She serves as Associate Professor of Acting and Voice in the Department of Theater at the University of North Texas.
*AEA member
(Book / Lyrics / Composer) is an award-winning playwright and performer. Plays include: Stagger Lee (Dallas Theater Center); Fetch Clay, Make Man (New York Theatre Workshop, Marin Theatre Company, Roundhouse Theatre); Steel Hammer with SITI Company (Humana Festival); The Seven (Lucille Lortel Award Best Musical, New York Theatre Workshop, La Jolla Playhouse); Five Fingers of Funk! (Children's Theatre Company); Honey Bo and the Goldmine (La Jolla Playhouse); and two acclaimed solo shows, The Gathering and Flow (solo shows toured to over 70 cities nationwide, Europe, Australia). Mr. Power is currently on the faculty at Meadows School of the Arts/SMU, and the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Playwright-in-Residence with Dallas Theater Center.
(Stanley Levison; FBI Agent; Rep. John McCormack; Reporter; Network Correspondent; Andrew Goodman; Seymore Trammell; Rev. Edwin King; Witness) is a member of DTC's Brierley Resident Acting Company, where his credits include A Christmas Carol; Sense and Sensibility; The Rocky Horror Show; Les Misérables; The Fortress of Solitude; Fly By Night. Regional: Cincinnati Playhouse; Repertory Theatre of St. Louis; Epic Theatre Ensemble; Elm Shakespeare Festival; Houston Shakespeare Festival. DFW: Second Thought Theatre; Undermain Theater; Theatre Three; Watertower Theatre; Trinity Shakespeare Festival; Shakespeare Dallas; Lyric Stage. Film/TV: Law & Order: SVU; Second Guessing Grandma. Alex is the Artistic Director of Second Thought Theatre in Dallas where he recently directed A Behanding in Spokane and Cock. MFA Yale Drama.
(Director/Choreographer) is Associate Artistic Director at DTC, where his directing/choreography credits include: The Rocky Horror Show; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor® Dreamcoat; Cabaret; A Christmas Carol (2005-2009, 2011, 2012). DTC directing credits include: Clybourne Park; Red; God of Carnage; Dividing the Estate; reasons to be pretty; The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later; and Cotton Patch Gospel (starring its creator Tom Key). DTC choreography credits include: It's a Bird... It's a Plane... It's Superman; A Midsummer Night's Dream; The Who's Tommy; and My Fair Lady. DFW Credits: Gruesome Playground Injuries (Second Thought Theatre);Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, and The Baltimore Waltz (Stage West); the premiere of Huck Finn by Lee Trull (Classical Acting Company). Mr. Ferrell is a former Artistic Director of Casa Mañana Musicals Inc. in Fort Worth, Texas. He has worked extensively around the country for Portland Center Stage, Papermill Playhouse, Ford's Theatre, Lyric Theater of Oklahoma and North Shore Music Theatre, among others.
(Ebenezer Scrooge) is a member of DTC's Brierley Resident Acting Company. Selected DTC credits include:The Rocky Horror Show; Sherlock Holmes: The Final Adventure; Clybourne Park; FLY; The Odd Couple; A Christmas Carol; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor®Dreamcoat; The Tempest; Cabaret; and A Midsummer Night's Dream. He has worked at numerous theaters nationally and locally including: Trinity Rep; Florida Stage; Stage West; Lyric Stage; Circle Theater; Casa Mañana, and Dallas Children's Theater. Film/TV credits include: Revolution; Parkland; Friday Night Lights; The Chase; Prison Break; A Scanner Darkly; Walker, Texas Ranger; and PBS's Wishbone. Chamblee can next be seen at DTC as Scrooge in A Christmas Carol. He was a 2011 Lunt-Fontanne Fellow and is a DFW Theater Critic's Award recipient. MFA from SMU. Love to his newborn son, Liam, and to Lynnie!
(Doctor Watson) is a member of the Brierley Resident Acting Company, where his roles include: A Christmas Carol; Red; The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity; Next Fall; Dividing The Estate; The Laramie Project Revisited; The Seagull. Regional credits: The Utah Shakespeare Festival; PlayMaker's Repertory; Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival; Centre Stage; Boston Repertory; Camden Shakespeare Festival. Other Dallas credits: Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf; King Lear (Kitchen Dog Theater); Bluebeard's Castle (The Dallas Opera); Much Ado About Nothing (Dallas Shakespeare Festival).
Resident Artists
Brierley Resident Acting Co.
Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre


text:
Quill Brand® Black Mesh Coordinating Desk Set; Drawer Organizer
Buy more and Save when you Mix and Match different products below
Quill Brand® Black Mesh Drawer Organizer
Quill Brand® Rotating Desktop Organizer
Quill Brand® Wire Desk Letter Tray
Quill Brand® Black Wire Desk Step File
Quill Brand® Black Wire Desk File Organizer
Quill Brand® Black Wire Desk Legal Letter Tray
Quill® Black Mesh Telephone Stand
Quill Brand® Black Mesh Legal Tray
Quill Brand® Black Mesh Letter Tray
Quill Brand® Black Mesh 3-Tier Desk Shelf
Quill® Black Mesh Magazine File
Quill® Black Mesh Office Manager
Quill Black Mesh Vertical Stepsorter
Quill Brand® Black Mesh File Box
Quill® Black Mesh "Doodad Cup"
Quill Brand® Black Wire Mesh Super Sorter
Black Mesh Letter Sorter/Holder
Quill Brand® Black Wire Mesh Pencil Cup
Quill Brand® Black Wire Mesh Business Card Holder
Quill Brand® Wire Black Mesh 9"W Drawer Organizer
Quill Brand® Black Mesh 2 Wall Hanging Files
Quill® Black Mesh Jumbo Pencil Cup
|Unit Price
|Total Price
|Add Items From the Left
- Made of sturdy steel
- Coated in epoxy for durability
- 6 compartments hold paper clips, rubber bands, pens and more
- Dimensions are 2-2/5H x 7-3/10W x 9-3/10"D
Quill Black Mesh Drawer Organizer Keeps It All Together
Keep important office supplies accessible with the Quill black mesh drawer organizer. These partitioned containers make organization easy.
Give all your employees Quill black mesh drawer organizers to help them keep track of office supplies. With separate compartments for items such as rubber bands, thumbtacks, pens and highlighters, everything has its proper place.
Reduce Waste
When your employees organize their office supplies with a Quill black mesh drawer organizer, they're less likely to lose items and request replacements. The mesh construction keeps supplies visible, so employees can easily see when they need to replenish something. Reduce waste and save money by keeping everything organized and accessible.
Improve Employee Efficiency
When your employees have to rummage around looking for writing instruments or correction fluid, their productivity takes a hit. Promote organization and efficiency with a Quill black mesh drawer organizer on every desk.
|Desk Organizer Collection Material : Wood
|Desk Organizer Collection Type : Stacking Supports
|Brand : Quill Brand
|Weight : 1.30 lbs. per Each


text:
Maybe Oprah's OWN network should be renamed Tyler TV.
Thanks to two new series from prolific producer Tyler Perry, the 2-year-old network is not only finding its audience but is challenging Viacom's BET, which has had a near-monopoly on African-American audiences for 30 years.
Perry's first two shows for OWN under their exclusive partnership generated the network's best ratings since it launched to much fanfare in January 2011.
Tuesday night's "The Haves and the Have Nots," a drama about a rich family from Savannah, Ga., drew 1.82 million viewers in its second outing, up from 1.77 million in its premiere.
Wednesday night comedy "Love Thy Neighbor" attracted 1.8 million, an increase from 1.65 million viewers for its debut.
Both shows have put OWN within striking distance of BET.
Last week, OWN was the No. 2 network among African-American women ages 25 to 54 years in primetime, — behind only TNT, which was airing the NBA playoffs, according to Nielsen data. BET came in third place.
Last year, Perry agreed to produce shows for Winfrey's struggling network instead of launching his own cable venture, called Tyler TV, with Lionsgate. He got a small equity stake in OWN as part of the deal.
Best known for his role of tough grandmother Madea, Perry has a loyal African-American audience that follows him across film, movies and the stage.
While OWN wasn't initially aimed at African-American viewers, it has found its footing among that audience with "Welcome to Sweetie Pies," a reality show set in a soul food restaurant, and "Iyanla Fix My Life," a self-help documentary series.
OWN is backed by Oprah's Harpo and Discovery Communications, which promises OWN will hit profitability by the end of this year.
Meanwhile, OWN is giving BET a run for its money.
Over the past 12 months, BET has lost primetime viewers while OWN has gained, according to an analysis by Horizon Media research chief Brad Adgate.
BET averaged 714,000 viewers in primetime, down from 816,000 in the period spanning June 2011 to May 2012. Over the same time, Oprah's average audience rose from 250,000 to 315,000.
BET didn't return requests for comment.
And OWN isn't far behind Viacom's BET when it comes to affiliate fees, either.
BET is expected to bag $220.8 million in fees from cable and satellite-TV operators this year, versus OWN's $197.6 million, according to SNL Kagan. Both collect around 20 cents a subscriber per month from distributors.
BET, acquired by Sumner Redstone's Viacom for $2.3 billion in 2000, is still ahead in ad revenue, raking in $360.7 million compared with OWN's projected $128.1 million.
Adgate said it remains to be seen if Perry's shows continue their ratings momentum after their big premieres.
"But it's very encouraging," he said. "It's very smart to bring in another strong, successful entrepreneur. That's a great way to grow the network."


text:
Ordering A-Frames shouldn't be a hassle! Quickly order your A-Frames for whenever and wherever you need it. Get chomping today!
When you order your A-Frame signs from Printchomp, you can source local printers to give you the highest quality, the best turnaround and the best price. Choose from our options, then search and order from your local printer based upon your needs.
The result: A-Frames that are perfect for your business' exterior to highlight a promotion or guide customers to your business or event.


text:
Accession Number: KFC 1481N
Description: Rose Fitzgerald, school year abroad. L-R: (unidentified), Rose Fitzgerald, Sir Thomas Lipton, Agnes Fitzgerald, John F. Fitzgerald. August, 1909.
Credit Line: Copyright John F. Kennedy Library Foundation. Photograph in the Kennedy Family Photograph Collection, John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston.
To license this image, see: http://www.jfklibrary.org/About-Us/News-and-Press/Press-Policy/Licensing-Photographs-in-the-Kennedy-Family-Collection.aspx
Date: August, 1909
Creator: Unknown.
Copyright: John F. Kennedy Library Foundation
JOHN F. KENNEDY PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUMColumbia Point, Boston MA 02125 (617) 514-1600


text:
It looks like you're using an Ad Blocker.
Please white-list or disable AboveTopSecret.com in your ad-blocking tool.
Thank you.
Some features of ATS will be disabled while you continue to use an ad-blocker.
"NO" Vote 232: H R 2862: Dorgan Amdt. No. 1665; To prohibit weakening any law that provides safeguards from unfair foreign trade practices.
Enforce existing safety laws against Chinese products
Q: What would you do in order to give the U.S. more leverage, to be able to deal with China at least as an equal partner? And are you willing to do that despite the consequences?
A: We have laws on the books now that aren't being enforced. This is what I mean in terms of us negotiating more effectively with them. Part of the problem is, is that the relationship has shifted over time. I would say toys cannot come in. We will have our own safety inspectors on the ground for food.
Insist on labor and human rights standards for China trade
The U.S. should be firm on issues that divide us [from the Beijing government] -like Taiwan-while flexible on issues that could unite us. We should insist on labor standards and human rights, the opening of Chinese markets fully to American goods, and the fulfillment of legal contracts with American businesses-but without triggering a trade war, as prolonged instability in the Chinese economy could have global economic consequences.


text:
Waking up after the hectic first day of vacation was luxurious; my mom and I were well rested after a comfortable stay at the inn and Roanoke Island was calling our names. Our second day was meant to be A LOT more relaxing than the day before. We wanted to explore some of the most popular attractions in Manteo and on Roanoke Island.
(Click on the following day to read more of my "Excursions on the Outer Banks" series. Blog post: Day One)
If you look on TripAdvisor at Manteo, the first six items on the top 10 list of things to do sum up what we explored during our second day of vacation. The following destinations and attractions all have the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence:
- The Lost Colony
- North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
- Elizabethan Gardens
- Roanoke Island Festival Park
- Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
- Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse
Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse
This lighthouse is small, but gives you a taste of what lighthouses are like on the Outer Banks. It honestly makes you want to get out and explore all of the North Carolina lighthouses. We enjoyed the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse because it was in walking and viewing distance from the inn; plus, it's free to visit!


text:
Ford bricks up the Explorer with Lego
As kids, if we heard that some lucky so-and-so got to spend their whole working day making cars out of Lego then we would be really rather jealous.
As adults (sort of), we are still a bit jealous of the 22 guys at Ford who were taken aside by their boss and told: "Chaps, we need you to build an Explorer out of these little plastic bricks. Life sized."
The result is pretty ruddy cool, and incredibly representative of the real thing, from distance at least, although Lego fans might shudder at the moment in the video below where it's shown that glue is used to hold it all together. They'll never be able to take it apart and make an F1 car or a castle out of those bricks now.
You'd have been able to make a fair few other creations out of those bricks, too – there were more than 380,000 used in total, and the Explorer took more than 2,500 hours to piece together.
Perhaps inevitably, the build was not just for kicks, and was a PR stunt to mark the launch of Legoland in Florida, but this meant the whole thing was filmed and turned into this rather natty time-lapse video.


text:
Kia Ora, (Hello) I am a 46 y/o teacher at a Middle school in Nz. I currently have 1 active loan for a robotics teaching project I am undertaking, but did not get enough funding on the last loan to fully equip my self with the required hardware. I have also fallen in love with Bitcoin and now not only wish to fund my robotics class but to also make a modest investment in bitcoin its self. Hence I am requesting a little more than I had originally envisioned .95 btc to to finish funding my Robotics project and the balance as an investment for the future.
Both my regular income and profit from running these classes will easily service the loan.
There is also a high probability of paying back the loan much earlier.
A sincere thanks to those of you who have backed me thus far,
Hey , get the conversation started!
{{ comments.error }}


text:
Season of giving: This community has put a priority on caring this year
If you want to feel good about Wayne County — and focus a bit more on the true spirit of Christmas — just open up the Spirit of the Season section in today's newspaper.
Inside, you will find dozens of accounts of projects big and small that were done to help others this holiday season. Reading them will make you feel pretty good about where you live.
On this day before Christmas, most of us will still be rushing around trying to get our holiday preparations completed. We will be concentrating on presents, dinner preparations and ribbons and wrapping paper. And, we just might lose a little perspective on just what we are supposed to be celebrating this weekend.
The projects in the Spirit of the Season are not all huge — one is a group of students who raised $72, just because they wanted to make sure needy children had a Christmas. Others are much grander in scope, but no less meaningful. All will touch your heart.
And that is what Christmas should be about — taking time to care for one another. The presents and the merry-making, while fun and a worthwhile tradition, are not what put the heart in this season of giving.
It is the giving.
So as you prepare to enjoy the holidays with your friends and family, take the time to think about what matters most. And if you need a reminder, take a look at the good you and your neighbors have done this holiday season — and beyond.
Of all that has been accomplished in 2006, the fact that we took care of one another is the achievement of which we should be most proud.
Merry Christmas from all of us at The News-Argus. We look forward to telling more of your stories in 2007.
Published in Editorials on December 23, 2006 6:54 PM


text:
As a former Gartner analyst with more than 12 years of IT service management industry experience, Jarod understands the market from the vendor, end-user, customer, and analyst perspectives. His proficiency in IT service support management processes, organizational structures, and technology is sought after for speaking engagements, customer consultations, and product development. He has published numerous white papers, research articles, blogs, and delivers innovative IT-focused presentations at events around the world.
Effectively responding to the complex requirements of today's IT customer demands a framework that is robust, agile, and adaptable to the modern, ever changing business paradigm. This Essential Guide to Developing a First-Class IT Service Catalog will provide an introduction to the IT service catalog and promote the value a well-designed catalog can bring to any organization.
The IT service catalog was originally introduced as part of the IT Infrastructure Library's (ITIL®) set of best practices for IT service management (ITSM). The British Government was the first to introduce ITIL to the world, stemming from its dissatisfaction with the quality of IT service being provided during the 1980's. As such, the Office of Government Commerce (OGC) was given the responsibility to develop a fiscally re¬sponsible framework for the efficient use of Britain's IT resources within the British government, as well as in the private sector. ITIL versions include V2, V3, and the most recent, ITIL 2011. ITIL is comprised of five primary publications, which include:
Service Catalog Management is an essential IT process contained within the IT Infrastructure Library's Service Design publication. The Service Design publication is especially important to overall business operations, including everything required to identify, conceptualize, design, and improve the services your business requires.
This guide defines the IT/ITIL service catalog, explains its purpose, and outlines how to develop a catalog that works for your business, metrics you should measure to monitor success, pitfalls to avoid, and how to leverage technology to implement your service catalog.
Back to Top
The service catalog is at the core of IT service delivery and contains a centralized list of services from the IT service portfolio (the service portfolio includes the entire lifecycle of all IT services – services in development, services available for deployment, and retired services) that are available for customer use. Within the IT service catalog, you will find an organized, digitized presentation of all of the IT services that your company provides – from resetting a lost password to accessing a financial system.
The typical service catalog is composed of two views:
This is how the end-customer experiences the service catalog. Usually presented using an IT self-service portal, this view presents services in customer terms and gives them the means to initiate service requests. For example, the following are customer views into higher-education service catalogs:
This is intended for internal IT resources and includes technical information that is required to effectively deliver a service, including important relationships, approval processes, and impact on related services.
The service catalog should be designed with the end customer in mind. Most importantly, the information necessary to request a service needs to be clearly defined with easy to understand instructions. Some of the key service information includes:
The service catalog should be tightly integrated into the customer-facing IT self-service portal, through which business users can request IT services that are defined within the service catalog. In other words, the service catalog powers the options displayed within the portal's user interface (UI). Services are pre-defined (and bundled when necessary) and associated with automated workflow processes that notify approvers and staff of the tasks or activities that need to be performed in order to deliver the requested service(s). The business user can then monitor and track the status of their service request throughout the approval and delivery process.
There are no "right" or "wrong" ways to develop an IT service catalog. That said, based on the best practices contained within this guide, we have compiled a set of real-world service catalog examples that were built to accommodate the unique needs of their businesses.
In the slide share to the right, you will find examples that illustrate the following:
The perception of IT has gone through enormous change in recent years. IT has historically been undervalued – viewed as "a necessary evil," simply managing the company's information technology systems without a clear understanding of how they impact the overall business goals. With the advent of the service catalog, the value of IT is now becoming more apparent. The delivery of services that are critical to the daily operation of business, such as company web access, email, software solutions, and related services, clearly demonstrates its present and future value to business.
Visibility into the essential business services IT delivers is one of the main benefits the IT service catalog offers. Additional benefits include:
Developing a service catalog may sound simple, but in order to encourage customer engagement and set proper expectations, it helps to consider the following tips to make it work:
Developing a service catalog is an exercise in good communication. Know your company and learn about its wants and needs. Business unit managers and other decision makers should work with both end users and stakeholders to determine what they need to perform their jobs. Differentiate between the services that your service desk and other IT teams currently provide and what may be missing. Are they essential and, more importantly, do they align with company goals?
Who will have access to the service catalog and specific services? Restricting access to the service catalog or specific services is important. You may want to allow end-users to request a keyboard or mouse, but limit items with a higher price tag, such as laptops or tablets, to management.
Categorize services with your end user in mind. Simplify whenever possible and keep technical jargon to a minimum. For example, would a business user know to look under 'infrastructure' for backup services, or should 'backup' be front and center? Think about the intuitiveness of Amazon categorization. Confusion creates dissatisfaction, and dissatisfaction will defeat the purpose of your service catalog.
Make the user experience a friendly one with an easy-to-access, simple-to-navigate IT self-service portal that contains all of the services that they will need to do their job.
Test a representative portion of your user pool with a small selection of services. Find out what works and what doesn't. Solve the "glitches" and slowly increase the user base and offerings within your catalog.
Once you feel confident in the design of your service catalog and processes that support it, select a software product that best manages your company's specific service needs – and automate delivery whenever possible.
Don't quit after you create and release your service catalog. It is equally important to continually measure and improve your service catalog by removing unnecessary or unused services and adding new services. Review your processes and learn from both your successes and failures. And, most importantly, be sure to share your successes with both business stakeholders and management.
Consider metrics such as:
Each of these metrics helps define the effectiveness of your service catalog.
There are "do's and don'ts" to consider when implementing any ITIL process. You can achieve success when creating your service catalog by avoiding some of the most common mistakes:
The key role of service catalog software is to provide simple access to services, creating a user-friendly experience, and automating the service delivery process. Your service catalog will be similar to a self-service portal, simulating an "online shopping" experience with web and mobile accessibility. It must therefore be flexible enough to add additional services and related details, with the ability to automate approvals, and communicate via email and web.
In addition, and depending on your industry, growing regulations and more complex business demands may have increased your need for technology solutions that support or are compliant with best practice frameworks/methodologies, such as ITIL, COBIT, ISO 20000, ISO 27000, VAL-IT, or Risk IT. Consider compliance, risk management, and industry regulations when selecting your solution.
The software solution you choose may offer IT service catalog templates that can be configured to include your IT and business services. The tool should allow the creation of multiple service catalogs that can be accessible via a single self-service interface. It should also have broad functionality that includes the ability to provide automatic service progress notifications, monitor metrics, and the flexibility to implement on-premises or in the cloud (software as a service, or "SaaS").
According the Gartner, organizations should "select an IT service catalog tool from one of these options, according to your organization's I&O maturity:
Finally, consider integrations with related IT support applications, IT asset management systems, human resource management solutions, a CMDB, and financial solutions.
As customer demands on IT continue to escalate, key shortcomings in IT service delivery practices become readily apparent. Automating the delivery of IT services is acknowledged to be the wave of the future, as business and technology are inextricably linked. Implementing agile, mobile, adaptable, and user-friendly capabilities within your service catalog will be an integral part of your company's success.
Download White Paper
View ITIL Guide
Read Blog Post


text:
In Stock
Waterproof Outdoor Alphabet Line
A waterproof, train themed alphabet line featuring a variety of animals in different carriages.
Reinforce literacy skills indoors or out with this colourful, wipe clean alphabet train.
Each carriage denotes different letters and corresponding images to support phonic awareness. Can be tied to fences, railings, etc.
Related Blog Posts
Really colourful in the playground
this was easy to install and looks good


text:
2009-09-15 48 9
Tue 15 Sep 2009 in 48,9:
Near Mössingen-Öschingen, in the forest on the very steep slope to the Meisenbühl mountain. There might even be cliffs. You would probably need a helicopter or a chainsaw to actually reach the point.
By bike it's about 17 km from Tübingen, buses go at least once per hour from Mössingen and Reutlingen to Öschingen.
ekorren got as close as 60 metres.
I didn't start before around 4 pm this time. There wasn't anything actually new to expect, as I had already visited two other hashpoints around the same village, and came through here on the way to a third one, even only about 200 m from the hash.
I spent a little bit of time detouring for OSM, passed through the village, and went up on the small gravel road to the Filsenberg mountain range, featured already in March. The printed topographic map and the satellite photo agreed that there should be a forest track parting from the road and leading not too far from the hash. Reality also agreed. With the slight difference, that in reality the meadow the track passed before turning into the forest was a cow paddock, with actual cows in, and fenced.
Of course the fence was probably more to keep the cows in than humans out, but I respect it anyway. So I called that a No Trespassing and turned...
... not away, of course, as there could totally exist a way around, couldn't it? I went along the road until the fence ended, found a place to park my bike, and started fighting my way through the middle of the mountain forest, as the fence did not leave any open space around. After about 150 m of stumbling through luckily rather open forest, and a few metres through a muddy meadow-like place, I reached the track again, this time above of the fenced-off area, and followed it uphill.
I had expected extremely steep slopes around the hash, even cliffs. I had not expected the kind of densest forest which I now encountered. I got as close as 60 m on the track, give it a few more or less (the GPS had kind of the worst reception possible in "open" landscape), but there was basically no chance to get off the track by more than a few metres into the right direction without using a chainsaw. Which I unfortunately hadn't brought.
MNB it was, then. The third MNB hash in my collection, and the second failed hash on the area of this one village. But since there weren't any achievements in, I didn't really care.