text:
For Hotel Hosting Ahmadinejad, Just Another 'International Event'
It's no surprise by now that the United Nations continues to host Iran's Mahmoud Ahmadinejad at "high-level" events at its New York headquarters. At the UN, despite its charter stipulation that membership is open to "peace-loving states which accept the obligations contained in the present Charter," it is by now obvious that a welcoming hand (including that of the Secretary-General) is routinely extended to Ahmadinejad as leading envoy of Iran's regime. Never mind that Tehran's proliferation-loving mullocracy is the world's leading sponsor of terrorism, a persistent and flagrant violator of UN sanctions, a gross violator of human rights on its domestic turf and a self-advertised hub of genocidal desires regarding the democratic state of Israel, and ultimately the United States (that's the meaning of "Death to America! Death to Israel!").
Hey, welcoming folks like this is part of UN business as usual. As administration officials like to remind us, the UN may be imperfect, but why let that get in the way of the utopian dream?
And that is exactly the message that still seems to be registering with some in the Manhattan private sector, where -- Tehran's track record of terror and proliferation notwithstanding -- it seems it is still possible for Ahmadinejad to find a luxury hotel room for the night. In recent years he has migrated from one plush New York hotel to another -- the Barclay Intercontinental, the Hilton, and so forth -- apparently shut out of return visits after public protests naming the hotels. But it seems there is always another willing establishment. This year it appears to be the Warwick New York Hotel, on West 54th Street. There, if the Warwick brochure is any guide, Ahmadinejad can enjoy fat pillows on which to lay his Holocaust-denying head and dream his radioactive dreams of a new Holocaust. There, he and his entourage will presumably have the pick of the "richly appointed suites, several with private terraces offering breathtaking views of Manhattan."


text:
Giving Affirmation
Give BeautyClick thumbnail to view full-size
Blessing Others
You might ask what is Affirmation and why do we need it? Well we all need it both from others and from ourselves. We need to know that we are valuable and good at things.
I know that it is hard in a society that has so few healthy examples of affirmation in their media. We do have some really healthy models in Feature Films for Families and The Janette Oak series of healthy happy working together families that help each other and show each other that they value them as a person.
I think that the hardest thing for me is to remember to do it for my children. I think they are wonderful but I don't always remember to tell my oldest you are so strong, bright, gifted, such a good runner, so considerate of little people, such a great protector of your brother, you are wonderful at trying to be funny and telling jokes and making people laugh. I am so glad you want others to be happy. I am so glad you have such a terrific imagination.
I forget with my youngest too but he has a habit of reminding everyone that he needs affirmation and is quite willing to demand it. This does not always make him popular but I am glad he is willing to ask for both affection and affirmation. He has always been a cute, cuddly, vivacious child that is curious about everything and not very afraid of anything. He is the child that jumped off the playhouse and bit a hole almost completely through his toung. This is also the child that put baking soda all over his bed playing in a box of it. He has been both wonderful and exasperating. I love him dearly and do a better job of telling him he is wonderful because he demands it.
I think back over my own life and how many wonderful people God had put in my life to tell me that I am valuable. I remember the first time I did the exercise that allowed me to tell others good things about them in writing and have them say nice things about me in return. I have come to enjoy this exercise and think that it is very healthy for many groups. I have also realized that I want to take the time to thank and praise the people God has allowed me the privilege of having friendship with.
There are several ways to affirm people one is through actions and affection. We tell people we value them by expressing a desire to spend time with them and thanking them for spending time with us. We also enjoy those moments when good friends meet and hug with no words exchanged. We can even affirm people through a kind look or a smile.
Another way to affirm people is to give them a note or a card that they can enjoy your words or the words you have chosen for them. I always wondered at my dad's love for large beautiful cards with wonderful sayings in them. He was not an extravagant man but He did like to get a nice big card on occasion for people.
Gifts are a way we tell people that we value them. We give a flower here or a box of fruit there. I like chocolate so tend to give it to other people. I sometimes wonder if it would not be better to come up with something that individual likes instead. I like to give seeds to people who like to garden. I like to give flowers people can plant to people who enjoy planting flowers.
I owe much of what I have accomplished or will accomplish to the people who believed in me as a child and found value in me. It was something that I valued more and more as I got older. We will always have plenty of people around that are willing to be negative and tell us our faults. It is good to cherish and foster relationships with those who are willing to appreciate us for who we are and what we have to offer.
I recently read a book that I enjoyed very much. The book is written by a set of twins and is called Struggling for Wholeness. It was a wonderful reminder to me of many of the struggles I have had. The authors take turns telling about things in their lives that they struggled with. They are both wonderfully successful middle aged women. They still struggle with all the same value issues that most of us have. What is better is that they talk candidly about how they feel and where they have been able to heal. The book was a wonderful reminder to me that all of us struggle and need affirmation.
I hope this article inspires you to express value to several people in your life. I also hope that it inspires you to take the time to affirm the children that touch your life.
No comments yet.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Biomass-to-activated carbon research receives $45,000 grant
Mitacs, a Canadian not-for-profit organization, awarded $45,000 to the Cape Breton University and BW BioEnergy Inc. for a biomass-to-activated carbon research project.
The project aims to utilize torrefaction technology to produce activated carbon from local woody biomass to remove water contaminants through adsorption. Contaminated waters containing heavy metals due to mining operations are an example where activated carbon can be applied to address water pollution, said Barrie Folek, CEO of BW BioEnergy Inc. "We're finding that our particular species of biomass, once activated, has a high efficiency for capturing heavy metals that are left over after years of mining activity or industrial activity."
While using activated carbon to clean polluted water bodies can be a great opportunity, Folek added the biggest potential for activated carbon applications are within drinking water purification operations. He explained that because of demand and more regulations around drinking water, more water will have to go through the charcoal-type filters in order to meet those guidelines.
Unlike other activation processes, which may require harsh chemicals or release harmful emissions, the carbon activation method is aiming to utilize environmentally friendly methods. "We tried to make the carbon in a closed-loop process so that there's very little, if any, emissions," said Folek.
Currently, the on-going tests are coming along "quite well," Folek said, and are awaiting patents and publication. Once the process is patented, BioEnergy will begin seeking investors and looking at commercialization costs and building a facility.


text:
Whyte-Hall's range of portable purging fans are designed to meet the rugged needs of today's tradesman. The range of portable purging fans offer an affordable means of ventilation or air movement for areas that have poor air flow and other workplaces inherently dusty or smoky.
The complete range of portable purging fans ventilation packages give fast, easy way to ventilate and purge confined space sites. Other systems offered include centrifugal or axial blowers (air powered and Ex(e) electric explosion protected fans for hazardous applications), plus all the accessories to give flexibility for the user's specific needs. Put Whyte-Hall's experience in ventilation equipment to work in meeting the requirements of job budget, OH&S obligations, and the job specification. With outputs from 700 L/sec to 3800 L/sec, the ventilation blower/fan that the user requires plus all the accessories to make the job easier.
Key features:
* Light Weight
* Powder coated steel construction (safety yellow)
* On/Off switch incorporated in lifting handle (400mm separate starter)
* 240volt single phase
* Padded feet to provide grip on slippery surfaces and limit damage
* Safety wire mesh grilles inlet and outlet
* Reversible ventilate or extract (non hazardous substances only)
* 5 metres of flexible semi rigid ducting supplied. Suitable for ventilating or extracting.
Available models
* 200mm (8") portable purging fan/blower including 5mt of semi-rigid ducting
* 300mm (12") portable purging fan/blower including 5mt of semi-rigid ducting
* 400mm (16") portable purging fan/blower including 5mt of semi-rigid ducting


text:
Challenge provided by Chuck Wendig. I rolled noir and heist/caper and came up with this, based on a loose idea I've had rattling around my head for a few years.
"Hi, Dozer, I'm … home …" The last word died on Vanessa's lips as she walked into the living-room and saw the four men sitting there.
One of them had picked up Dozer and was scratching the cat behind the ears.
They had to have gotten in through a window. The door hadn't been disturbed.
There was a brief silence as Vanessa looked them all over. Then she dumped her keys on a small table next to the door and folded her arms. "You could have called ahead, you know. And what made you think it was okay to help yourself to coffee?" She looked meaningfully from the cups on the coffee-table to a tall, dark and handsome man, who was leaning against the mantelpiece with the grace of a very large cat. In fact, he looked more like a predator than Dozer, who was currently looking silly with his legs at odd angles.
"You were late from walk in the park," said the man, who had used the name Cornelius, when she had known him. "We got tired, needed something to pick us up."
She raised an eyebrow. "So you've been stalking me for long enough to learn my schedule, but not long enough to know that on the first Tuesday of the month, I get a haircut."
Cornelius shrugged, a movement which managed to covey both that he admitted to having made an error and promised that he would not forget this small tidbit, ever again.
Vanessa walked over to the man sitting with Dozer and took the cat from him. She carried it out into the kitchen, Cornelius following her, where she put it down and poured food into its bowl. She then put the kettle on to make tea and only then did she turn to look and him.
"What do you want?"
"I need money and I need them now."
"Let me stop you right there. If you're were planning to borrow from me, I only have enough available assets to pay my rent and day-to-day expenses. The rest are tied up in some very secure and very longterm investments to make sure that I can live modestly, but comfortably for the rest of my natural life." More comfortably, than modestly in fact. Vanessa's apartment was not large, but it was situated in one of the most expensive neighborhoods. And there wasn't anything in it, from the largest piece of furniture to the smallest piece of cutlery, that wasn't either antique or custom-made.
"How very sensible. But no. Actually, I've gotten my old gang together, along with a few fresh faces and we are planning hit the Dawbert Estate, get our hands on the collection of diamonds."
There was a long silence. Dozer finished his food and walked out of the kitchen to see if he could get some more head scratches from the nice stranger. The silence dragged on, until it was broken by the sound of the water boiling.
Vanessa turned, took the kettle off and poured water over the tea-leaves. Then she whirled around and hurled the empty kettle at Cornelius. He ducked and it crashed into the wall behind him before clanging to the floor.
"What the fuck is wrong with you?" asked Vanessa, her voice low and trembling, "You think all you have to do is walk in here and mention diamonds, the way you would wave a bottle of whiskey at an alcoholic and I'll come running to be a part of your ridiculous scheme?"
"Look," Cornelius held his hands out in front of him. "I'm not asking you to get involved. At all."
"Oh, pull the other one, why don't you? It got bells on it."
"But I was just wondering, if you, being the greatest diamond thief who ever lived …"
"I'm retired," Vanessa said flatly, but she had never had much stamina for conflict and the fight was already leaking out of her.
"That doesn't make you any less great. And old habits die hard, I know that better than anyone. I was wondering, if maybe you had – out of purely academical interest, of course – maybe done some research on the Dawbert Estate? You know, taken a stroll around the perimeter and admired the security measures, looked up a few blueprints, maybe even taken a tour. And if so, if you would maybe be willing to share your findings with a few fellow diamond-acquiring-enthusiasts."
Vanessa narrowed her eyes. "I thought you had some nerve a minute ago, but apparently I didn't know the half of it. You're asking me if I have done preliminary work on a heist on the Dawbert Estate and then you want to borrow it? Just like that?"
"Well, I would offer to pay you, if you seemed to insulted at the very thought of being a full member, I wasn't sure you would take kinder to the idea of being a paid consultant."
"No, I wouldn't."
"Vanessa, please. These people who are after me, they're not like the people we're used to working with. They're the kind of people who'll kill and maim and torture and I know you'll say that it's my own fault for getting involved with people like that and you would be absolutely right, but done is done and … Vanessa, I don't want to die, especially not the way they would kill me. I'm sorry I'm not as sensible as you. I truly am. I wish I could have saved enough money and made some sensible and legal investments and retired and lived a quiet life, but I didn't and I may be an ass-hat because of that, but I don't think I deserve to pay with my life."
Deep in though, Vanessa poured herself a cup of tea.
Cornelius let her think in peace and discretely picked up the kettle, which had been slightly dented, but was otherwise no worse for its resent flight. He placed it back on the stove.
Vanessa reached a decision. "So if I give you what I have on your target, you'll get out of my hair?"
"Yes, and speaking of that, may I say what a lovely job your hairdresser … "
"You may not." Vanessa sighed and rubbed her eyes. "Okay, then." She picked up her tea-cup and went back into the living room.
The rest of the men were all sitting there with the awkward looked worn by everyone ever forced to wait in someone else's living-room. Dozer was back on the lap of the man from before. Vanessa gave the cat a look to let it know what she thought of its treacherous ways, but was firmly ignored.
She put her tea-cup on the mantelpiece. "Wait here," she said and went into the bedroom, closing the door behind her. She was gone for about five minutes before returning with a small bunch of tightly rolled up papers.
Vanessa placed them on the coffee-table and started unrolling them. They were covered in very tiny writing with a few diagrams. She could see the eyes of one of the men next to her widen, when he realised that what he was looking at was all tiny handwriting with hand-drawn diagrams.
Cornelius reached for the papers, but Vanessa pulled them away from him.
"One condition," she said. "You will do this on March the 21th or not at all. I'm will be at the opera that night and will thus have an airtight alibi, if anyone should think to connect the crime to me."
"March the 21th?" Cornelius was silent for a moment whilst think, but then nodded. "It will be tight, but we can do it."
She smiled. "They're playing Rossini's La Gazza Ladra."
He returned her smile. "The Thieving Magpie."
"I thought you would appreciate the coincidence." She handed him the papers and he squinted at the tiny letters. "What is this anyway? Notes? Schematics?"
"A manual."
"A … manual?" He looked up at her, puzzled.
"A manual for how to do it. How to steal the diamonds. It's all there. Of course, I wrote it for one person with my particular skill-set; you'll have to modify it to get it to work for your group. But it's all there. All you need to do."
Cornelius looked from her to the papers, then back at her. She could just about remember the last time she had seen him at a loss for words, but it had been a long time ago and she was savoring this new moment.
"I'm not sure what to say," he admitted finally.
"According to our agreement, I believe the words you're looking for are 'Goodbye', 'Thank you for the coffee' and 'Won't be seeing you around'. You may choose the order yourself.
"But … you did all this work," he waved the papers at her vaguely, "and you're telling me that you never intended to go though with it?"
"Cornelius, I don't know how to make it any plainer. I'm done talking to you. Get out."
"Okay. Sorry. Okay." He stuffed the papers in the inside pocket of his jacket, then immediately patted it to be sure they were there. "Goodbye. And the rest of the stuff you said."
The three other men also go to their feet, looking relived that it was over. Dozer was placed on the floor and the man tried discretely to brush the cat-hairs off his trousers, but merely managed to distribute them over a larger area.
Vanessa walked to the door, opened it and gave each man a curt nod as he passed. Cornelius was the last one and of course he paused in the door.
Vanessa rolled her eyes. "Don't make me regret helping you, more than I already do."
"I just can't help wondering if the Dawbert Estate just so happened to be the only place that you have a complete plan for how to burgling. Or if you have made plans for every major diamond collection …"
His words were cut off, when Vanessa closed the door on him. She stood for a moment and listened to the sounds of his footsteps on the stairs. Then she walked back into the living room to her rapidly cooling tea.


text:
With a few taps on an iPhone, you can now search for someone in the U-M directory, navigate campus, access the Magic Bus system, and even check out what's being served in the dining halls. Designed to connect students, faculty, and staff, Michigan is a free iPhone app that provides access to news, events, and other university information. Michigan and the Mobile Center, a new website with mobile resources, were created by Information and Technology Services (ITS) to encourage and support mobile computing needs at U-M.
The Michigan app began life as a student-designed app called iWolverine, which was built by CSE students Kevin Chan and Mark Yang as a project in Elliot Soloway's EECS 498 Mobile App Development class in Winter 2010 (both have since graduated). Information and Technology Services, which had plans to develop an app for Michigan, purchased iWolverine in March 2010. "Mark and Kevin had an excellent start on a general U-M app with iWolverine. Their app allowed us to jump start our development," said Cassandra Carson, mobile applications product manager at ITS.
The app allows users to:
More Info:
U-M News Service: Michigan iPhone App Offers Access to Range of Campus Information
U-M News Service: Michigan Students Create iPhone App to Provide Campus Information
Posted: July 6, 2010


text:
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year's Eve! We had a busy holiday away visiting family and friends. Our NYE was spent quietly at home over wine and an ol' school game of Monopoly! I wish you all a great start to 2014 :)
Now on to a cute little rocking horse that I finished up this week! I picked this one up at Value Village in Bellingham. The before picture is included at the bottom. If you're interested in purchasing this cutie visit my For Sale page HERE for further info.


text:
Funny story – everyone in the comments on this video are like "what is this song?" I actually have it on a David Pearce collection I picked up in Whales.
Very pretty, but I'm holding my breath until the reviews come out. There are certian cultural traditions that come with games made in Korea, and they tend to clash what I consider good design philosophy – for example – requiring tons of grinding, effort or time to get even the smallest things done.
Also – why did no-one heal that poor caster? I felt bad for her…


text:
Whoops! We're a day late for the SBIM Weekly! It was a public holiday here in Melbourne, Australia and we weren't in the office to get this one out yesterday – hope you don't mind.
Here's what's news this week:
1. Search engine ranking factors – a fantastic article to help you understand Google
2. How to get dropped rankings back – it's easy once you know how 😉
3. Our PingBack Optimizer review – a great WordPress plugin to get you more backlinks
4. 7 essential pages for a small business website – do you have these?
5. Video marketing tip – know your customer's pain and add a good call to action
6. YouTube case study: Orabrush – how can you model this in your biz?
7. Optimizing the YouTube thumbnail – it's quick and easy but has a big impact
Did I miss anything? What did you see this week?
By the way, I just returned from an internet marketing conference over the long weekend and I'll be sharing some interviews I recorded – keep an eye out for that.
Also, have you watched the Competition Crusher workshop yet? We're getting some amazing feedback – a couple of the comments even made me blush. Click here to check it out.


text:
Did you know that 81% of shoppers conduct online research before making a big purchase? The same goes for both consumers and businesses seeking services, which is why it's important to have a website that shows your business and its products or services, or both, in the best light.
An engaging website will increase the chance of prospective customers enquiring with or purchasing from you, thereby increasing leads and sales and growing your business in the best way possible – digitally. At Digital Reflow, we offer complete, affordable Web Design Essex and Web Development solutions. A website that ensures your business stands out from the crowd, above your competitors.
Our passionate team of web designers have years of experience creating attractive, engaging websites for businesses both big and small, including online retailers, regional service providers and international brands looking to improve current customer experience and attract and convert new customers. At Digital Reflow, we never use generic templates. Everything we create is from scratch.


text:
BONN, Germany (PAMACC News) - Multilateral Development Banks and other financing institution have been urged to boost climate finance in support of new international agreement and sustainable development pathways especially in Africa in line with the COP 21 Paris Agreement;
The call was made at climate discussions in Bonn May 13, 2017, on how Multilateral Development Banks can mobilize and deploy climate finance in developing countries to permit them carryout the different projects outlined in their NDCs.
According to Dr Stephen Singer, CAN International, multilateral banks have crucial parts to play in achieving the goals set out in the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals.
"Delivering on the Paris Agreement is all about radical economic transformation and fostering sustainable, low-carbon and strong growth. Economic policy and finance, and this multilateral banks and finance ministries, will be at the core," he said.
Experts called for a strong partnership between multilateral banks and the provide sector to be able to stand the challenges of growing urbanization and emerging markets.
"What these financial institutions do over the next two decades will determine whether we succeed or fail to deliver this global agenda.
During that time, the size of the world's economy is likely to double, and the amount of infrastructure will probably increase by a still larger factor, with strong urbanization and growth in developing and emerging market countries," noted Peter Bett of the Department of Business, Energy and industrial Strategy, Robert Moore UK.
According to conference participants,investments in sustainable infrastructure will not only help us to realize the goals of the Paris Agreement but will also allow the different countries meet up with the challenges to reach the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gareth Philips, of the African Development Bank Group pointed out that the world is set to invest aboutUS$90 trillion in infrastructure over the next 15 years. That means spending will increase from about US$3.4 trillion per year to about US$6 trillion with most of this investment located in developing and emerging market countries.
"If this infrastructure is not sustainable, and instead locks in high-carbon activities, the world will lose its chance of meeting the Paris Agreement goal of holding the rise in global mean surface temperature to well below 2 Celsius degrees above its level in the middle of the 19th century," he said.
Sustainable infrastructure is not only low-carbon but it is also climate-resilient. It must be able to cope with the current climate and with those impacts of climate change that we cannot now avoid. And it is clean, efficient and smart.
All new infrastructure, including for energy, transport, water and communications, must be sustainable, as was emphasised by the report on 'The Sustainable Infrastructure Imperative' by the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate in October. This is particularly true for cities and towns, which already host the majority of the world's population.
Urbanisation is taking place at a remarkable speed. Only sustainable infrastructure can help to reduce pollution, waste and congestion, and ensure that we can live and breathe in our cities. If we get the infrastructure right, we will have resilient and inclusive towns and cities
where poor people have a chance to raise their living standards and escape from poverty. And those in rural areas will see new opportunities to move, and more will be able to access, energy, transport and water supplies.
Participants agreed that the 'nationally determined contributions' to the Paris Agreement can help each country to have sustainable and inclusive growth and to reduce poverty. But noted that building low-carbon and climate-resilient infrastructure will drive growth, and will allow countries tackle together economic development, and climate change mitigation and adaptation, the two being intimately intertwined in both urban and rural areas.
" Success in financing climate resilience projects will create huge economic opportunities. But there are also great dangers in delay and severe risks of locking in unsustainable infrastructure, said Said Chakri of the Moroccan NDA secretariat to GCF.
"The urgent need to invest in sustainable infrastructure is a central issue for both finance ministries and for the national and regional development banks," he added.
Experts noted that finance ministries should be concerned with growth, investment, policy and resources because only credible policies will raise finance, through both direct revenue and economic growth itself.
Mithika Mwenda of PACJA raised the issue of the absence of pre-prior consents of local communities that have never been respected by investors, citing the case of Congo Basin in Africa.
"The question is whether this is going to affect financing of projects in these areas or not. Most of these investments are profit driven but there is need to balance investments and climate change challenges," Mithika said.
This entails the need for consistency, clarity and credibility, creating an environment that is conducive for both investors and the indigenous communities, he added.


text:
Honored guest will enjoy responding to
an RSVP using the web or simply using
a toll free number. It doesn't matter if the
RSVP is for a wedding reception, class
reunion, seminar, or any special
Guests will enjoy the convenience of
responding at their leisure
24 hours a
. Should guests fail to respond, we
will call them for you.
Save money, time and stress!
Call now for y
our event
correspondent number.
Toll Free:
RSVP Management Service
Guest Gateway
It's a breeze! Just send out your invitations, sit back, relax, and let
us do the work for you.


text:
Enter your best email below to let me know where to send this FREE SEO Training...
Your Privacy is protected.
From the desk of: Gugulethu Sgz
Subject: How to Get High Quality Traffic on Demand!
Dear Traffic Enthusiast,
First off, I'm not going to insult your intelligence and try to sound interesting by acting like those self-proclaimed wannabe gurus telling you that "You can get traffic at the push of a button."
As you may know, you can find this redundant cliche all over the internet, and I know that you agree with me that it is very annoying to see this statement on almost every single website that you visit.
The only thing that separates the successful marketers that have thousands upon thousands of unique visitors from the broke newbie trying to get a few measly "clicks" is just one simple concept. But, before getting into that sick and powerful concept, I would like to ask you something…
If you responded affirmatively, that's really good for you. You may now leave this site and keep on generating traffic to your websites, as this letter may not be for you.
But, if your answer is a BIG and resounding NO, then I'm really glad to announce that you're about to discover bullet-proof tactics to melt your server away with floods of traffic. You're at the right place, at the right moment.
And we're talking about the most sought after kind of traffic - QUALITY traffic. Now, let's get back to the simple concept that we talked about before. This interesting concept can skyrocket your blog/website to unlimited profits, or it can destroy your business in almost no time...
See, most newbies have the mentality of mechanically consuming course after course and guide after guide in hopes of finding a "magic pill" to solve all of their traffic problems. Please, allow me a few seconds to expose their thinking pattern.
This is more or less what they're thinking every time that they see a new shiny thing:
"Wow, I'm sure that if I purchase this guide
I will finally get the traffic I'm looking for."
They completely ignore the fact that the "magic pill" that they're looking for doesn't exist. I call this the "Negative Buying Circle" (how's that for a name?). Unfortunately, it's like a pandemic virus spreading all over the Internet and affecting only frustrated newbies.
On the other hand, successful marketers know their stuff by sticking like glue to old-fashioned strategies. They never give up no matter what, and they deeply know that by sticking to the basics, they are getting guaranteed RESULTS. And these results are thousands upon of thousands of targeted visitors waving dollar bills ready to buy anything that you have to offer….
Rich marketers are not afraid of working their a**es off because they know that, in the long term, it's more than worth it. A few hours could mean THOUSANDS of dollars in their bank account later – that's money ready to be spent!
The question is, would you like to be in the broke newbies category, or would you like to join successful marketers with thousands of dollars sitting in their PayPal accounts?
See, I've been there.
I know what it feels like to refresh your stat counter over and over again, and sadly discover that visitors are never coming to your site. It really sucks.
That's why I'm here today.
I really want to help marketers wanting to finally put an end to the traffic problem that they're suffering from. Marketers who want to tear apart all of those lies and false promises on products that deliver nothing but a dream.
But, before continuing, I have to be completely honest with you. I can only help you to generate traffic if you don't run away scared every time you hear the word "work."
I'm not going to jump on the last wagon of the "push-button-traffic-software" trend that we have seen lately, because what I have to show you simply beats everything like that.
It's something that only a few traffic generation insiders know…and I'm sure that they will be pissed off when they see that I'm unlocking the traffic secrets and revealing them to you.
But, you know what? I don't care.
Listen to this crazy story...
When I first started out (like all marketers out there), I was fully loaded with an unrealistic motivation. I wanted so eagerly to make money online and to finally achieve my financial freedom. I purchased plenty of guides promising thousands of dollars per month the easy way.
Then, I started to compulsively buy domains and began to create micro niche sites like there was no tomorrow. I remember that I spent up to 10 hours per day creating sites! But, the truth is, time went by and none of those sites made me a single dime. Don't get me wrong - they were great sites with loads of quality content.
But still, I was making zero, nada, zilch.
After I failed miserably with this approach, I decided to start autoblogging. Then, like it was black magic, I found myself spending more money - and still without getting any kind of results.
Boy, that was MORE than frustrating!
Something was really wrong, but I didn't know exactly what. After a few weeks of seeking answers, I came to a very basic and obvious conclusion (even today I'm still laughing about this!):
Well, I know it seems pretty obvious, but at that time I didn't know that.
Back to the story…
After all of the suffering and the frustration, I made a promise to myself. You know, those kinds of promises that you have to keep or else you would be deceiving yourself BIG TIME: I would find, at any cost, proven ways to generate traffic.
It wasn't easy and after so many "trial and errors" finally I've cracked the code. It was always in front of my nose and I just couldn't see it! Fortunately for you, in a few clicks, you can have access to the "traffic secret" that no one is talking about.
So to answer the question of why I'm sharing my method instead of keeping it just for my eyes is plain and simple:
I want to stop all the non-sense and hype about traffic generation and help other fellow internet marketers to achieve their dreams!
And this message is for the most skeptical:
There you have why I'm giving you this chance to literally saturate your websites or blogs with targeted traffic. I can bet that if you have a proven system that can send to your sites thousands of "I'm-ready-to-buy" visitors - and it doesn't matter how many people are using it because it would still be effective – You wouldn't mind to share it with the rest of the world… Am I right?
So now, prepare the DRUM ROLL because I'm introducing to you…
One of the smartest ways to send targeted traffic anywhere that you want…without killing yourself!
This is what is included in this course…
"Easy Traffic Club" is the real deal when it comes to FREE traffic generation techniques. Unlike many paid traffic haters, I won't bash PPC. In fact, I do believe that it is a profitable way to send traffic.
But you know, not everyone grew up rich.
In the economical recession we're living in now, money doesn't grow on trees, and not everyone has the budget or expertise to use PPC. Plain and simple.
Some time ago, I had a friend (who was a complete newcomer) who wanted to exploit only PPC. As you may know, if you don't know what you're doing, you can lose your t-shirt in a breeze when you are paying for traffic. The thing is that he created some landing pages, and a few campaigns in Adwords.
I tried to dissuade him (after all, I'm his friend) and explain that first one should focus on FREE traffic at the beginning, but he just ignored me… And his stubborn mistake cost him huge losses (I'm talking about $4,000 in one week).
Clicks were drumming up really fast, but he made a few measly sales that weren't enough to cover the expenses.
He basically lost his shirt, fast.
As fast as the blink of an eye.
Surely I know that you don't want this to happen to you!
One of the best things about "ETC" is that it can operate in ANY niche. It doesn't matter if you're on the Make Money Online, Dating or even Gardening niche. It WILL work no matter your niche!
It's also EASY and FUN to implement. Who said that generating traffic is boring? You can surely enjoy all the traffic that you're going to direct to your sites! (And of course, enjoy all of the earnings!).
You only have to read my guide, implement it and see your server crushing!
You have here a complete solid blueprint that delivers REAL blazing fast results in a simple way that you've never imagined before.
If you're anything like me, you might be a bit skeptical about all this…"If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is"… So many years of hype and B.S. can cause you to have problems with believing people…But NOT this time.
You just stumbled upon something that's going to change the way that you see marketing forever!
All of the techniques laid out in this guide are TRUE and DO WORK. In order to receive insane amounts of traffic, you only have to be willing to work a little…
In exchange for a few hours, you'll gain traffic. That is something that nobody would EVER reject. Would you trade a few hours of your spare time for GOLD?
Sure I would, and I know that you would too!
Before getting into pricing, let's discuss all of the great benefits you're getting today if you secure a copy of "ETC":
Discover how to make an income online. Become your own boss & work your own hours by learning these 20 methods to success.
With the right 'gig' you can earn a full time income and get out of the 9 to 5 rat race. There are many ways to make money online quickly and without a lot of effort.
In this guide you'll learn the best ways to earn a passive income online. There's some great strategies for using content to generate an income. This guide will also help you think outside the box.
Included are some fun as well as unusual ways to make money online. I'll also show you my simple 10 step guide for having success when flipping websites. And a whole lot more...
Learn the most powerful technique for building an email list in less than a week. Many of the top email marketers have used these types of methods to build their list to over 100,000 members.
If you go to any of the top email marketer's websites, you will see that they are still using the same methods to quickly add members to their list.
In this course, I have outlined everything you need to know to set up this system and start making money in the next 24 hours. And you can get everything started today without spending a dime.
I am sure that you have heard that the Money Is In The List!
Now you have the secrets to building a buyers list that you can use to get paid daily.
And much more ....
If you're still sitting on the fence, let me tell you that this will be one of the best moves that you could ever make to help your business expand like a virus over the internet.
Imagine thousands of visitors just raving about your products, clicking on your ads, subscribing to your opt-in pages and virtually everything else that you want them to do!
Easy Traffic Club is a brilliant guide on how to best drive scores of much needed traffic to your sites.
In the current trend of online marketing, where so many focus on paid techniques (burning large holes in their pockets in the process) it's refreshing to see the other side of the coin.
Free traffic rocks!
Sure, many argue that free traffic methods take up a lot more of your time but every great marketer needs to master paid and unpaid, anyway. So just get stuck in and do it.
This guide covers everything from social media, seo strategies and a secret formula on how to become a popular force online.
There were plenty of tips I had never even thought of and I've been in the game for almost 5 years.
Don't miss out.Gareth Morgan
CEO, www.garethmorganofficial.com
Look, You better act NOW because I have already invited thousands of traffic generation marketers, and I can't guarantee that this offer will last forever. Once I have enough places taken, I may possibly pull this offer off the
market, and it won't be open again – ever!
Secure your copy and let others struggle when it comes to generating traffic. While they wish for a guide like this, you will already be enjoying all that traffic and ALL those earnings that will take your life to the next level!
See you on the inside…
Gugulethu Sgz
P.S. See, this is the real deal of your life. Back when I started, I wish I could have had such a detailed guide like this.
Certainly I would have killed for it! I'm sure that this traffic guide will be life changing for you… Follow the techniques laid out in my guide, and there's no WAY that you can fail…
P.S.S. TICK, TICK, TICK... Hear the clock ticking? That means that while you're hesitating, other smart folks are taking advantage of "Easy Traffic Club."
If you're not fast enough, you may be late to the traffic party…so you have no choice but to act NOW.
P.S.S.S. If you have any questions, please shoot me an email to the following email address: firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
This I believe – Life does not turn out the way we wanted. It is said that to find happiness we must want what we get. Reaching this esoteric position is not easy to achieve. As I look at the faces of the people around me I find that I am not alone.
Over the years there have been difficult losses. When I was younger I buried myself in activity; physical challenges, working long hours, taking care of many pets, moving for yet another job. No time to think.
Recently my life has been turned upside down with what seems to me to be the loss of losses. My only child died by his own hand. The faces of the unhappy people are becoming my face. Trained from childhood I always do the socially acceptable thing when someone asks "How are you?" saying brightly "Just Fine!". "Smile and the world smiles with you, cry and you cry alone". Only now it is not possible to escape into frenetic activity.
This morning I sat in the barn on one of the milking stands gently squeezing the white liquid as valuable to me as gold from the teats of one of my goats. The little Aussie Shepard, who had been my son's dog, came through the milking area to get to her favorite corner. As I watched she suddenly stopped, startled, and then backed away from the other milking stand. I got up to see what frightened her. Then I saw the one thing out of the ordinary; a handful of black and white hair trimmed from one of the goats the day before that was lying flattened on the floor. Picking it up, I offered it to the little dog. She tentatively sniffed the hair, wagged her tail as if to say "of course" and went to her comer.
A single thing, that patch of hair, a crack in the floor, a piece of paper, can cause panic because that is all the animal sees at that moment. They are unable to put that single thing it into perspective with the items around it. With the little dog's fright I realized that this is how I see the death of my son. It is like a patch of black and white hair. It is all I can see at the moment.
Life has not turn out the way I wanted. But, if somehow, just once in a while, I can see the golden threads in a stream of fresh milk, recall sweet memories, or feel the pleasure of a treasured gift weaving into the pit of this loss, then perhaps I can keep going until there is again a reason to live.
If you enjoyed this essay, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to This I Believe, Inc.


text:
REALVIZ announced the immediate availability of Stitcher 5.5 on Thursday with support for Google Earth. Stitcher builds wide-angle panoramas from a series of photographs. The updated version adds the ability to export panoramas for use in Google Earth. Stitcher is available in three versions: Stitcher Express 2 costs US$119, Stitcher Pro 5.5 is $349, and Stitcher Unlimited 5.5 costs $580.
REALVIZ also announced that ImageModeler 4.1 will be available in September. The image-based modeling tool now exports 3D image models for Google Earth using the Collada file format. Image models can be drug from the Desktop into Google Earth. It is priced at $850.


text:
Children's Entrance Red Oak Baptist Church. Directional Signs for Kids Hallways with Hand Painted Murals For Nursery and Preschool.
Imagination Atmospheres is maker of creative themed environments, murals, stage sets, props, children's church rooms, 3-D foam sculptures, kids spaces, retail and restaurant theming, pediatric murals, theme park environments, haunted attraction props and sets and other imaginative atmospheres. Contact us today to consult about your project.


text:
ERIC Number: ED178954
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1979
Pages: 17
Abstractor: N/A
Reference Count: 0
Ask Them: Action Research in Teaching Writing.
Woodworth, Sandra
One method developed by a teacher to help students improve their writing involved having the students analyze their skills based on a scale they themselves had created that described what a good writer should know or do. Having classified the skills mentioned by the students in a hierarchy from elemental to complex, the teacher evaluated the students based on what each thought were the most important skills. She found that her classification of students as advanced, average, or immature writers was related to the sophistication of their responses to the question about important skills for a writer to have. She used the hierarchy to create writing assignments appropriate to the skill level of each student. (The responses of each student to the questions used to form the scale are included in an appendix.) (TJ)
Publication Type: Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: Portsmouth Public Schools, NH.; New Hampshire Univ., Durham.
Note: University of New Hampshire/Portsmouth Teacher Corps Project, Cycle XII


text:
Oh My God!
News of Ben Roethlisberger's motorcycle accident has caught me a little off guard. Although it may be premature, I think that the only appropriate response at this time is a '06 version of Candle in the Wind in honor of Big Ben. Get well soon!
Goodbye Ben Roethlisberger
Though I never knew you at all
You had the grace to hold yourself
While those around you crawled
They crawled out of the woodwork
And they whispered into your brain
They set you on the treadmill
And they made you change your name
And it seems to me you lived your life
Like a candle in the wind
Never knowing who to cling to
When the rain set in
And I would have liked to have known you
But I was just a kid
Your candle burned out long before
Your legend ever did
Loneliness was tough
The toughest role you ever played
Pittsburgh created a superstar
And pain was the price you paid
Even when you almost died
Oh the press still hounded you
All the papers had to say
Was that Big Ben was found without a helmet on
Goodbye Ben Roethlisberger
From the young man in the 22nd row
Who sees you as something more than sexual*
More than just our Big Ben.
* That line is a little weird, but it might work if Elton John is singing it.


text:
Other Guest Articles:
Constitutional Tools No Longer Valid
The Road to a United Soviets of America - Part II
The Road to a United Soviets of America - Part I
Constitutional Tools No Longer Valid
By Dean Tong, Forensic Consultant
September 15, 2003
If Kobe Bryant were an accused man by any other name, there would be no question of his right to face his accuser at his Oct. 9 preliminary hearing in Eagle, Colo.
But Bryant is not a nameless John Doe; he is a basketball superstar, and his legal travails are anything but ordinary. His Sixth Amendment rights allow him the right to call his accuser to testify at his preliminary hearing. At the hearing, the judge determines if there is enough evidence for a trial.
Bryant's attorneys have subpoenaed his 19-year-old accuser to appear at the hearing, a move fought vigorously by the Eagle County District Attorney who instead proposes having the woman appear by videotape.
Throughout his legal proceedings, Bryant has seen evidence that he will not be treated with the same consideration given to an unknown defendant. To date, he has been required to personally appear before the court at his arraignment, a formality that the district attorney would have foregone in a lesser-known out-of-state defendant charged with the same offense.
The latest move by District Attorney Mark Hurlbert to tread on Bryant's Sixth Amendment rights does not bode well for the basketball star's rights to a fair trial. For all of his money and fame, Bryant will not get a fair adjudication of the charges he now faces, and he has ever reason to be afraid.
The timing of Bryant's legal troubles could not come at a worse time: The Colorado Springs U.S. Air Force Academy has been embroiled in its own sex abuse allegations, and all eyes are on Bryant to see whether the D.A. will take a tough line against sexual assault allegations.
The U.S. Constitution affords defendants the right to face their accusers and to due process so that the court can size up their testimony, their personal credibility and any forensic tests that may be available. Bryant's case rests largely on the testimony of his teenage accuser, and allowing her to forego a personal appearance at the hearing will deny Bryant's attorneys a chance to question her, and for the judge to assess whether her testimony is believable, which is infinitely more difficult to discern in a videotaped testimony.
Instead, the D.A. proposes offering live testimony of the Sexual Abuse Nurse Examiner - a victim's advocate - as to the alleged victim's state of mind and physical injuries. As a victim's advocate, the nurse cannot be expected to give an unbiased accounting of facts and details. Her job is to support and believe the victim. "Innocent until proven guilty" is simply not in her job description.
Ironically, accused killer Scott Peterson has a better chance at justice than Bryant. Peterson's case rests largely on forensic evidence, meaning that he can bring in his own legal experts to examine the evidence and testify as to their own conclusions about its meaning and relevance. Bryant has admitted to committing adultery with his accuser, leaving the D.A. to prove the rape largely through the woman's own words, a so-called "he said, she said."
Bryant will be forced to prove a negative - that he did not rape his accuser - which puts him at a huge disadvantage at trial. The D.A.'s experts will undoubtedly provide emphatic support of the charge against Bryant, as the prosecution has a built in confirmatory bias, where it seeks to identify evidence and information that supports its allegations rather that provide an independent investigations of the facts and personalities involved.
If Bryant is to have a fair trial, it will be up to him to cut the D.A.'s biased experts off at the pass: Bryant must commission his own experts to conduct an examination of the facts. Having guided thousands of clients facing sex-abuse allegations over the past 10 years, I have found that the only way to ensure freedom for those innocent of sex-abuse allegations is to undergo a specific battery of testing , including a penile plethysmograph - a test that measures an individual's propensity toward sexual offenses - administered by an independent examiner, in addition to psychological and other forensic testing by independent experts not beholden to the prosecutor's agenda.
Unfortunately for Bryant, fame has only brought him greater and unfair legal challenges. Proving his innocence will cost Bryant a great deal of money, his privacy and, most likely, his reputation.
Fame may have its perks. Too bad for Kobe Bryant, justice is not one of them.
� 2003 - Dean Tong - All Rights Reserved
Sign Up For Free E-Mail Alerts
Dean Tong is a nationally known forensic consultant and author of the critically acclaimed book Elusive Innocence (Alpha Publishing, 2002). He may be reached at 1-800-854-0735 or via his website www.abuse-excuse.com E-Mail: [email protected]
"The U.S. Constitution affords defendants the right to face their accusers...
Bryant's attorneys have subpoenaed his 19-year-old accuser to appear at the hearing, a move fought vigorously by the Eagle County District Attorney who instead proposes having the woman appear by videotape."


text:
|Danville, Calif.
|High School:
|Monte Vista
|House Affiliation:
Named to Collegiate Water Polo Association's All-Academic Team ... Selected to Association of Collegiate Water Polo Coaches Academic All-America Team ... Earned Team's Coaches Award ... Had two goals in victory over St. Francis (March 9) ... Tallied a goal in victory at Connecticut College (April 10) ... Netted a goal in win over Queens (April 19).
Earned Team's Most Improved Player honors ... Named to Collegiate Water Polo Association's All-Academic Team ... Ranked second on the Crimson with 41 steals while scoring eight goals with two assists ... Scored a goal with three steals in her collegiate debut against Wagner ... Had two goals against Hartwick in the Northern Division Championship.
High School:
Attended Monte Verde High School and earned three letters in water polo ... Played the driver position and started during her final two years ... Team captain as a senior ... Team's Rookie of the Year as a sophomore ... Most Improved as a junior ... Two-time All-East Bay Athletic League selection ... led team to a pair of EBAL and North Coast Section championships
Daughter of Rick and Lynn ... Competed at the World Games five times, placing ninth in 2003 ... member of yearbook and speech and debate clubs ... National Merit Scholar ... Enjoys water skiing and wakeboarding


text: Yesterday morning I met with a major book publisher about some upcoming GFB projects…more to come on that soon. It was so nice to be back in New York City, and his building was right down the street from one of my former jobs at Miramax Films. After my meeting, I shot over to Hoboken to visit with some old friends from the block. One thing I've learned about non-stop travel is that you have to make time to visit with friends and family when you're away from home…it's one aspect of normalcy while roaming the nation. Last night I spoke to a crowd of 200 women and men in sororities and fraternities about how to have a safe spring break at SUNY Oneonta, and we had a blast. I end all these programs with a demo of self-defense techniques men and women could use if violently confronted on Spring Break. Not sure what me and my Scary Bad Guy are doing in the photo above, but clearly we're having a good time doing it!


text:
Director/A&R at Krafted, which includes labels Base, Krafted Underground, Krafted Digital, First Steps, Krafted Records, Sounds of Krafted, Sweep The Floor & Unrivaled Music.
Booking Agent for:
Chloe Fontaine, Paul Sawyer, Jethro Watson & more.
Demos & information : email@example.com
Advertising & Sponsorship Director DMC
Listen to all music and sounds of Darren Braddick (Krafted) and follow this user by signing in for free.
You can listen to 656 tracks and mixes and follow this user as 28 did before.
This artist liked 6 tracks, followed 28 others and reshared 5 tracks and mixes. 41 other people are following this page too.
soundcloud...aftedmusic krafted.co.uk soundcloud...renkrafted


text:
Tavon Davis
Founder of Victory Lap in Brooklyn ( a contemporary men's sportswear brand) & friend. www.victorylapusa.com
Mattoo's Corner
Mattoo's Corner. Something I created for the people in my corner. A brand based off of photography & minimalism. It is also a brand that is not, focused on being the center of attention, but having a standout quality that makes a crowd gravitate towards your corner. Visit my new portfolio site at www.mattooscorner.com
DJ Duo • Lily Vanilli & Joel Davis •
This wall space on Bleecker Street in the East Village of New York City is easily one of my favorites. It's tough to pick a favorite in such a vibrant city with different types of character in each neighborhood. This one though, I knew I'd be photographing some one in front of it. Merideth, a dear friend, supporter, stylist, & fashion blogger wanted to do a test shoot. I knew just the place.
Mattoo's Corner: "A Grand Stature" Exhibit at Victory Lap (Summer '15)
Summer 2015 has been an extremely progressive summer for me. A highlight of the summer came when I was able to exhibit my work for the 1st time. I was able to do it in a gallery format. The exhibit was held at a contemporary men's sportswear boutique in Brooklyn (Victory Lap) whom I've formed a great bond with. The opening reception was beautiful, the people were receptive, & responsive. I was overwhelmed with joy! To know that this is only the beginning of something grand, has me anxious to create more, bond with more genuine people who I believe in & believe in me & whatever it is that I bring to the table. Mattoo's Corner is stronger than it's ever been.
Lonesome Place.
March 26th. Happy Air Max Day!
The infrared air max 90 has been a favorite of many sneaker collectors. So it's only right for this day, I broke them out
What We Discuss.
Tatyana: The homie I discuss white sneakers, poetry, relationships, friendship, tinder dates, & do weird dances with from time to time.


text:
Google Sync for Microsoft Office (GASMO)
IMAP and POP3
See the differences in the following table. Specific details for IMAP and POP3 follow the table.
More POP3 vs IMAP References:
IMAP (Recommended)
Many clients will automatically configure the appropriate IMAP connection settings for your account, but confirm that the connection settings your client configures are the same as what's listed below.
If you're using a client that's not listed above, you can also use the following information to configure your IMAP. If you have problems, contact your mail client's customer support department for further instructions.
If your client does not support SMTP authentication, you won't be able to send mail through your client using your Gmail address.
If you're not using one of the clients or devices above, we offer general instructions on configuring some clients below. If you encounter difficulties, we suggest contacting your mail client's customer support department -- we're unable to provide assistance for clients not listed above.
Unless you're using recent mode to download mail to multiple clients, make sure you've opted not to leave messages on the server. If you do not, you will download massive quantities of email again, despite having already deleted much of this email earlier. Access your Forwarding and POP/IMAP settings and change your "When messages are accessed with POP" to "delete Your Organization Mail's copy".
If your client does not support SMTP authentication, you won't be able to send mail through your client using your Gmail address.
If you're having trouble sending mail but you've confirmed that encryption is active for SMTP in your mail client, try to configure your SMTP server on a different port (465 or 587).
Username and password not working? Some apps require you to also turn on access for less secure apps before setting up POP/IMAP connections.


text:
The Raging Buffalo Series has been around for about 22 years now. We offer all 6 disciplines and 4 events in each discipline. We've also expanded our offerings to include gymnastics training, competitive coaching, competitive focused camps and so much more. We pride ourselves on our team spirit, good sportsmanship, and helping one another progress in competitive snowboarding and free skiing.
If you are new to our series WELCOME!! If you are coming back for another season, WE CAN'T WAIT!!!


text:
This year, I'm lucky enough to be on the guest list for two weddings (OK, I was on the list for three - one was my ex-boyfriend's though and I chickened out of going!). After not having any weddings for years, I now seem to be having at least one a year! In 2014 I watched my gorgeous mum get married (and I was a bridesmaid!) and last year my lovely stepsister got married. This year, one of my best friends from uni is marrying a guy she met while we were there and my stepbrother is also tying the knot.
So, what does that mean?
Well, it's time to start shopping for dresses of course!
I love dressing up for weddings. I think it's the perfect time to invest in a really, really pretty dress that's just a bit too classy for your typical standard night out. Here are some of the picks I've been eyeing up so far.
Alice & You Skater Prom Dress - £15 - House of Fraser
What drew me towards this particular dress is the unusual shape. While I own skater dresses and skirts in abundance, none of my skater dresses have a neckline like this - in fact, none of exisiting tops or dresses have a neckline like this! I'm always very safe in my clothing choices - I wear what I know. However my body shape has changed a lot over the past year or so and I think it's time to start trying new things. I also adore the shade of pink this dress is and the delicate black floral detailing.
Chi Chi Petite Aisling Dress - £64.99 - Chi Chi Clothing
I find myself more and more drawn to sky blue dresses as time goes on. Blue was never really a colour I was much fussed about, but a couple of years ago I bought a gorgeous lace sky blue dress from Missguided and since then it has been more on my radar. This Chi Chi number is absolutely stunning. Again, it's not a shape I would usually go for, but the stunning detailing is right up my street.
Girls on Film Coral Structured Back Bow Prom Dress - £21 - Debenhams
Now this dress is very traditionally "me." Both the colour and style would be right at home in my wardobe. Despite its simplicity, I really adore this dress and I think you could really go to town on accessories with it. However, I'm being drawn to the idea of this dress with simple silver jewellery and a nice flower crown.
Pale Pink Crochet Neck Trim Skater Dress - £26.99 - Quiz Clothing
Again, this is another dress that would be right at home in my wardrobe. I love the colour of this dress and the way the lace detailing takes it from a plain everyday summery dress to wedding guest perfect. As the crochet neck trim does a lot of talking, this is definitely a dress for minimal accessoring in my opinion.
Chi Chi Renata Dress - £57.99 - Chi Chi Clothing
Ah yes, yet another Chi Chi dress! I find Chi Chi has a fantastic range of dresses for very special occasions so of course, it was my first port of call when searching for the perfect wedding guest dress.
Chi Chi Allanah Dress - £79.99 - Chi Chi Clothing
Now this Chi Chi dress really is a sight to behold isn't it? Despite not being pink, it's probably my favourite in this list. It's unbelievably pretty and I think it would suit me quite well. It might be the most expensive on my list but I have a feeling it would be well worth the investment...!
Chi Chi Petite Selby Dress - £59.99 - Chi Chi Clothing
For me, there's just something about weddings that always makes me think "florals!" I adore the asymmetric cut of this particular Chi Chi number and the delicate nature of the print. Allanah might be my favourite dress on this list, but I feel like I really need to get my hands on Selby too.
Jessica Wright Isla Lace Midi Dress Pink - £32 - ASOS
So far, all my outfits have be muted, soft, pastel shades. It felt only right to throw a nice hot pink number in there too. I feel perhaps I'd prefer this midi dress for a night out with the girls but it could definitely still work for a wedding too.
Jasmine Colour Block Dress With Lace Detail - £20 - ASOS
Pink, white and black is one of my favourite colour combinations in the workplace, so I thought I might as well try to bring it into my personal life too. I think this dress is a little unusual, I've not seen many like this before. Again, this could easily work for both a night out and a wedding.
What do you think of my wedding guest dress wishlist?
This post contains affiliate links


text:
VANCOUVER, Sept. 29, 2016 /CNW/ - The United Nation's International Maritime Organization celebrates World Maritime Day today with a theme to remind us that "Shipping is Indispensable to the World."
Canada is a nation that is largely dependent on ships to move goods to and from coastal communities and international markets. An estimated 80 per cent of global trade by volume and 70 per cent by value are carried by sea and handled by ports worldwide.
Recognizing concerns voiced on the cumulative impact of shipping, we encourage the federal government to foster the collaboration on marine spatial planning that currently includes communities, Indigenous People and stakeholders, including the Chamber of Shipping. An integrated coastal strategy that is developed through meaningful dialogue and actions will protect our vital ecosystems and provide Canadians with greater certainty on the sustainability of their communities.
"Canada has an opportunity to get it right and develop a global model for sustainable marine transportation that supports trade in its strategy for coastal waters," states Robert Lewis-Manning, the President of the Chamber of Shipping.
The Chamber of Shipping is asking the federal government to:
SOURCE Chamber of Shipping
Image with caption: "Chamber of Shipping (CNW Group/Chamber of Shipping)". Image available at: https://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160929_C8214_PHOTO_EN_784616.jpg
For further information: please contact: Robert Lewis-Manning, President, 604.681.2351; Bonnie Gee, Vice President, 604.681.2351
Chamber of Shipping
Browse our custom packages or build your own to meet your unique communications needs.
Fill out a CNW membership form or contact us at 1 (877) 269-7890
Request more information about CNW products and services or call us at 1 (877) 269-7890


text:
- This event has passed.
Precious Nonsense
July 5, 2017 - July 15, 2017$35
Precious Nonsense
Written & Directed by Rachel Lampert
A screwball musical comedy featuring the music of Gilbert & Sullivan!
It's 1938 and the Carter Family Savoyards are on tour in upstate New York. They have been performing their Gilbert & Sullivan revue Precious Nonsense all across the country in any theater that will have them. Making up the Carter Family Savoyards is patriarch and reformed womanizer RDC Carter, his diva wife Angelina, and their son Frederic. Josephine Wellington, a ditzy beautiful soprano rounds out the troupe. The Carters are hoping to retire soon and expect their son Frederic to take over the family business and marry the silly Josephine. Not sure he wants to continue in his parents' footsteps (or that he is even really that into women), Frederic has a lot of soul searching to do in just two acts.
Arriving at their next venue, the Carter Family Savoyards are shocked to see they've been booked to perform 'Pirates of Penzance.' As they agree to put on a seven-person version of the quirky operetta, romances brew backstage, love affairs begin and end, and twist and turns that could only be found in a Gilbert and Sullivan inspired piece will make you laugh to your very core. Come on down to Auburn Public Theater this summer to see if the Carter Family Savoyards can pull this thing off!


text:
I'm Ben Frain, an experienced web developer living in Cheshire, England.
I build responsive web sites and applications and I've written three web development books.
Front-end developer
I've been developing for the web since 1998.
My speciality is CSS, including CSS architecture and writing CSS that scales across large projects. I've written a popular book on Responsive Web Design with HTML5 and CSS3 (now in its Second Edition). I'm also keenly interested in front-end code performance/optimisation and product design and dabble in JavaScript.
Besides writing web related books, whatever I learn I try and document in the blog section.
If you're curious how I got into this game, the tools I like using and who I admire, Workspiration interviewed me here: http://workspiration.org/ben-frain
In addition Leanpub interviewed me for their podcast. There's also a transcript of the interview there if you prefer reading.
Podcast appearances
I've had the pleasure of discussing web development on a number of industry podcasts:
- ▹ Leanpub (September 2016). Talking about my odd path into web development, writing books and CSS architecture. Listen on iTunes
- ▹ Sass Bites (February 2015). Talking about Front-end architecture. Watch on YouTube
- ▹ Word-Break Show (January 2015). Listen on iTunes or direct
- ▹ CTRL+CLICK podcast (April 2014). Listen on iTunes or direct
- ▹ Upfront Podcast (June 2013). Listen on iTunes or direct
- ▹ ShopTalk show (April 2013). Listen on iTunes or direct
I occasionally speak about web development:
In November 2017 I spoke at Mersey Code on 'Enduring CSS'. Here's a video of that talk on ECSS/Enduring CSS.
In August 2016 I talked at Frontrends about CSS architecture and the different ways of scaling CSS. You can view the slides here.
In November 2015 I spoke about 'Enduring CSS' at McrFRED in Manchester, UK. You can view the slides to that talk here or read the 'Enduring CSS' book here.
In early 2015 I spoke at the 2015 Responsive Web Design Summit about 'Architecting Code on Large RWD Projects'. You can view the slides from that talk on Speaker Deck.
At the beginning of 2014 I spoke at the #McrFRED (Manchester Front-end developer) meet-up about embracing a philosophy for front-end development I've coined 'Pin Cing Do'. You can view that talk here or read the 'text' version.
Back in 2013 I spoke at the 2013 CSS Summit about using the Chrome developer tools to troubleshoot CSS and Sass.


text:
It's been a long time coming, but a fully-fledged Metal Gear Solid iteration has touched down on PSP. After two moderately interesting 'Ac!d' games that proved to be little more than tantalising hints of what was to come, Portable Ops is as legitimate and well produced as anyone could hope for a portable entry in the series. Moreover, the storyline in Portable Ops is a direct sequel to Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, so those looking to continue the saga are going to need to fork out for a PSP.
Snake, now sans an eyeball and sprouting hair like a gun-toting hobo, is looking sharp on Sony's handheld. Set in 1970, about six years after the events in Snake Eater, the story revolves around resentment surrounding Vietnam War. For fans of Snake Eater, you'll be thrilled to know that several characters and plot points are referenced. Para-Medic takes a more central role this time around, and a baby-faced Roy Campbell takes command of the operation.
Gene, the main antagonist in Portable Ops, is heading up a warped FOX unit. The leader is bent on the idea of birthing of a new nation by overthrowing the US and Russia, to form the mightiest, most capable military in the world. Think Sparta, only with machine guns and genetic supersoldiers. Snake (known as Naked Snake or Big Boss this time around), gets caught in the middle, after he is accused of leading the renegade FOX unit and stealing a vital national secret known as 'The Philosopher's Legacy'. Hence, the US government, the Russian military and FOX unit all want him dead. Snake needs to clear his name and take out Gene - thereby preventing a nuclear holocaust.
Snake starts off as a prisoner in a South American military prison. In what acts as a kind of soft-core introduction to the main skills and enemies in Portable Ops, you must break out with a malaria-suffering Roy Campbell in tow.
Although Portable Ops' story is certainly continuous, the game structure is a departure for the series. The game is now missions-based, which is a laudable design choice by the team, as it perfectly suits the portable nature of the PSP (and its inherently crummy battery life). Between missions, you're taken to a 'mission-control' style screen where you can choose your next mission location from an overhead map. It is also here that you can tool around with Portable Ops' other major shake-up of the Metal Gear formula: squad tactics.
Yes, that's correct - Portable Ops is a squad-based shooting experience. Don't think Rainbow Six, necessarily. Rather, you'll be utilising the ability to swap between playable characters at any time during the course of each mission. The idea is pretty clever - no longer must you infiltrate an enemy compound as a lone operative.
You can now knock out or drug enemy soldiers, medics and prisoners, take them back to your hideout and convert them to your cause. Thus, your numbers are bolstered in the field, and the only effective restraint on the number of captured and converted allies you have is imposed by the squad size. There are four squads to be filled out, with four slots in each (minus one for Snake, who must remain on the team). Converts each have specific roles in the field, in line with more typical squad shooters - spy, medical, technical, independent, rookie, prisoner and sneaking. The Australian version also includes two new careers - 'Bait' and 'Stuntman'. You can pretty much guess how these two classes operate.
When you choose a mission, an introductory cutscene is triggered (which an impatient few will no doubt hate, despite the great production values and score) and you're placed into the field. At this point, you can pause the game and swap between other soldiers in your squad. Some might be better suited to different tasks, while others make inherently better spies, thanks to matching uniforms for the particular installation you're infiltrating, for instance.
It's not a gameplay revelation - the Metal Gear Solid credo of 'Tactical Espionage Action' is strictly adhered to. You'll be doing a lot of sneaking, killing and evading in the tradition of past entries. However, new characters add a fresh dimension to the gameplay that not even the inherently strategic Ac!d games managed to nail with this degree of fun and success.
On the Briefing Menu, you can also dabble in a bit of micromanagement. Each squad member's rank and statistics are tracked, and these are all performance based stats, too; it is wholly possible to stick with a handful of characters and 'grow' them into fully-fledged bad-asses.
Then again, you can also use the PSP's built-in Wi-Fi to search for other PSP-owning MGS: Portable Ops players. By detecting their frequency, your PSP can receive troops automatically while in sleep mode, or actively if you're feeling social. The idea is, by using Wi-Fi hotspots, you can play a micro-game that seeks out 'signals' of characters around the world that can be brought into your team. Generally, the weaker the signal, the stronger the character.


text:
Do you know what WatchItNoAds 2.7 is?
WatchItNoAds 2.7 is yet another worthless adware program that should be removed without any hesitation if it is found running on your PC. In quite a few cases, this adware application might be advertised as a great tool that should improve your online experience. While at times it might sound like an excellent tool to have, you must know that, in reality, this ad-supported program is only capable of causing significant disturbances every single time you decide to browse the web. Sadly, quite a few users get their operating system infected with this adware due to these hoax marketing strategies. Read the rest of this article and find out how this infection functions and why it should be removed without any hesitation. Below we provide a detailed removal guide that is easy to use and will help you delete WatchItNoAds 2.7 in no time at all.
As soon as WatchItNoAds 2.7 gains access to your PC it will ruin your online experience almost instantly. This is so because this adware will flood your web browser with tons of third-party commercial ads and annoying pop-ups. The third-party web content provided by this adware is utterly worthless and will be presented to you in a random way. This activity is obviously annoying, and of course invasive since you will be forced to fight through unwanted ads and annoying pop-ups every single time you browse the web. This activity will continue to bother you as long as this adware program is active on your PC. It is quite ironic that an application that should help improve your online experience will do exactly the opposite. If you are keen on avoiding such an invasive instance make sure to remove WatchItNoAds 2.7; otherwise this activity will continue to bother you.
While annoyance cause WatchItNoAds 2.7 is the most prominent feature, some much more alarming features of this adware were found. During the research of this infection, our team has come across some ads provided by it that were implemented with redirect links. While this instance is not an often one it still remains a possibility, and it obviously could have devastating outcomes. This is so because by clicking on an ad inserted with a redirect link you risk of being taken to suspicious websites. You could end up on a fake online shop, crafted by cyber criminals for one purpose only – to steal your credit card data, or you could be taken to a website that promotes malware. Both instances could obviously have devastating outcomes. Do not take any chances with WatchItNoAds 2.7 as the risks are too big, to say the least. Make sure to remove it as soon as you get the opportunity to do so.
The removal is imperative and should be carried out immediately since WatchItNoAds 2.7 does not hold valuable features whatsoever. Make sure to execute the removal without any skiing any steps as just one mistake could mean that the adware program was not removed entirely. This is important because even a few leftover files or registry entries could still be used by this adware to continue its invasive activity.
How to remove WatchItNoAds 2.7 from your operating system
Windows Vista and Windows 7
- Tap the Windows key on your keyboard.
- Select Control Panel and click Uninstall a program.
- Select the unwanted application.
- Click the Uninstall button.
Windows XP
- Click Start and the go to Control Panel.
- Click Add or Remove Programs.
- Double-click the unwanted program.
- Confirm that you want to remove it.
Windows 8
- Move the mouse cursor to the lower-left corner of your desktop.
- Right-click.
- Select Control Panel and click Uninstall a program.
- Right-click the adware application.
- Select the Uninstall option.
In non-techie terms:
The removal guide that we provide below is meant for users who might find manual removal too complicated. This is so because the instructions bellow will help you delete this invasive adware in an automatic way.


text:
Open Events Booking
You are invited to attend an open event at Kew House to learn more about our school. Following a talk from the Headmaster, visitors will have the opportunity to ask questions and will also be given a tour. We suggest you allow 1.5 hours for your visit.
Once you have selected an open event, please complete the short form to confirm your booking.
Children are welcome. Please only add your child's details if they are going to attend the open event.
If you find an open event fully booked, please contact the Admissions Department, firstname.lastname@example.com so that we can find you a place.
Friday, November 16th 2018 09:45am
|Head's Talk:
The Headmaster's talk will focus on the ethos and curriculum at Kew House School as well as the facilities and opportunities we offer to our students. The talk will begin promptly at 9.45am so please arrive at 9.30am to sign in. Please allow 1.5 hours for the visit.
|Dawn Hassett, 02087422038, email@example.com
Travel guidance can be found under our 'How to get to us' tab, where there is also a travel map.
There is no onsite parking at Kew House School.
Event is fully booked
Please choose another date or hour here


text: Live streaming direct to you from their webcam, come meet and watch hundreds of Durango girls on the biggest party line. Global Chatlines is a completely Free network of chatlines and online chatrooms from around the world. Click a city within Durango from the list below or scroll to the left and begin chatting with a live girl right now.


text:
Software Details:
Version: 1.0
Upload Date: 12 Dec 14
Developer: Macgamestore
Distribution Type: Shareware
Price: 6.99 $
Downloads: 4
Size: 112033 Kb
Why stop at having seconds? Dig into a third helping of hidden object fun in Gourmania 3: Zoo Zoom. Find the ingredients for spicy fajitas at Tres Amigos, or prepare a mouthwatering Greek Salad at Aesop's Tables. From pouring hot java at Bean Me Up to serving ice-cold treats at Beaches and Cream, there's never a dull moment as you work quickly to please your customers and increase your profits. Between levels, build a zoo featuring the five animals on Victoria's family crest.
60-minute trial


text:
Yidarton Water Aqua Sports Shoes Barefoot Quick-Dry Aqua B0728B6DD4 Shoes Yoga Yidarton Swim Beach Surf Slip-On For Men Women Kids Green ce3247a
Material:92% polyester+8% spandex Upper.Rubber Sole.
Multifunctional Lightweight Flexible Breathable Quick Dry Beach Aqua Skin Socks.
Perfectly design for swimming, surfing, diving, beach sports, water sports, beach volleyball, sand soccers, sailing, snorkeling, yoga, dance, gardening, parasailing, boating, kayaking, pool sports, hiking,running,Work out,excersize , shower, aerobics, bathroom, car driving and etc.
Attention : As different computers display colors differently, the color of the actual item may vary slightly from the below images, thanks for your understanding.
Please allow slight 1-3cm difference due to manual measurement, Size doesn't fit all, please carefully check size chart and select the size based on your real size thank you and nice day!
大 陸
臺 灣
兩 岸
國 際
綜 合
社 群
專 題
漫 説
即 時


text:
through highly customized school turnaround programs, academic leadership programs, professional development services for academic leaders, curriculum development, educational needs assessments, and more.
Whether boosting performance of turnaround schools, or taking your school to a blue ribbon level, Educational Directions will make a customized program to positively impact lasting student performance.
Education Training
Educational Directions was started in 1998 to enable a group of Kentucky "distinguished educators" to continue working with schools after their retirement.
Today, Educational Directions provides training programs to groups of educators, school leaders, and administrators aimed at improving the performance of students within a given school district, county, or state. Our program is designed to change the thinking about "practice" and then assist schools in finding relevant "best practices."
Our Process
When we are contacted by a district, we try to meet with the decision-makers and that district to find out exactly what they would like to have happen with their teachers and students. If it appears that we can address that set of expectations, we will make a proposal or a set of post-proposals with different cost structures to accomodate.
If the proposal meets with the school district's approval, we will write a contract and determine when, where, and how services will be provided.
EdManager Software
ED Manager makes it easy for teachers and administrators to enter assessment and writing portfolio results in a common database. As soon as information is entered into the system, teachers and administrators alike can use built-in reports to make assessments of what students are being challenged by what questions.
Our software will help you to understand what your students know, what they do with that information, as well as their aptitude level with each subject matter.


text:
Nymbler is the smart baby name guide that responds to your personal taste.
Nymbler makes name connections with insights from baby-naming expert Laura Wattenberg, author of The Baby Name Wizard.
AugustineInspire Nymbler with Augustine
A boy's name of Latin origin that has a traditional but eye-catching style. Augustine was most popular in 1927 and is currently not among the top 1000 U.S. boys' names. Meaning: Latin: majestic. Religion: Saint Augustine was the first archbishop of Canterbury.
U.S. popularity statistics:
|Peak year:
|Rank in 2008:
|3-year trend:


text:
Valerie Frankel's Totally Revamped and Focused Website
Book Doctoring
Books & Articles
Travel Writing
Contact & Bio
No filter (obviously) photo my husband likes because cleavage
I've heard that a website is the new business card. This is my actual business card (redacted):
Email me
The Grudge Boat
Kindle Single!
Four of a Kind
"Engrossing!"—Publishers Weekly.
Hex and the Single Girl
The Girlfriend Curse
Nominated for a Quills Award! Now in its fourth printing! "Wickedly entertaining."—People "Draws laughs."—EW
I Take This Man
The Not-So-Perfect Man
Now in its fourth printing!
The Accidental Virgin
Now in it's tenth printing!
Smart Vs. Pretty
Now in its eleventh printing!
It's Hard Not to Hate You
"Refreshing! Entertaining! Funny! Warm!"—PW "Hilarious! Helpful, hard-won insight!"—Kirkus
Thin Is the New Happy
"Funny! Satisfying!"—People "Witty! Candid!"—Kirkus
Fringe Girl: The Revolution Starts Now
Nominated for a Cyril Award!
Fringe Girl in Love
Nominated for a Cyril Award!
American Fringe
Book #3 in the Fringe Girl series
Fringe Benefits
Book #4 in the Fringe Girl series
For whatever reason, you have landed at my website. Maybe you heard my name in connection to a famous person and were curious? Maybe you are a famous person, were given my name by an editor or agent and wanted to know something about me before telling me your whole life story? Maybe you've read one of my books or articles and felt compelled to learn more about me?
Well, for starters, thanks for coming! Being a writer is kind of isolated, and it's very nice to have visitors.
I have been a professional writer for thirty years, and a full-time ghostwriter for ten. My career started in magazines (remember them?). For ten years, I was the articles editor at the late, great Mademoiselle. For that mag and dozens of others, I wrote articles about sex, dating, health, so-called women's issues, parenting, style, body image, confidence, etc. Because of my background in journalism, I have the chops to report and write books in a wide range of subject matter. I've collaborated with authors in the non-fiction spheres of health and wellness, sex, style, true crime, memoir, self-help, science, business and relationships. (Click on the Ghostwriter tab for a listing.)
As an author under my own name, I've also written non-fiction books (business, style, relationships), memoirs (on body image and toxic emotions) and sixteen novels for women of all ages. (Click on the Books tab above for descriptions.)
I've applied my novelist skills to ghostwriting as well, and have helped a few famous people create their own worlds and give life to their characters in funny, heartfelt stories.
Many people have asked me, "Why do you ghostwrite for other people? Why not just keep writing your own books?"
If you are thinking about hiring me, you are probably wondering the same thing.
The answer is, I like working with people. I like learning new things. I love a challenge. I am also a bit of a workaholic. Also, I am, have been, on a lifelong quest for inspiration. After thirty years as a writer, I know that inspiration from one's own life and experiences will only get you so far. I am inspired by the stories and messages of the people I work with.
The relationship between an author (you) and a writer (me) might seem artificial and bizarre at first. It can be awkward to hire a complete stranger to translate your words and stories to the page in your voice for your readers to enjoy. Someone you don't know at all is to become your confessor and confidante from day one? How does that even happen?
Many authors feel this way. First meetings can be uncomfortable. They think, "I'm supposed to tell this strange woman my life story, my emotions, things I haven't revealed to some of my best friends?"
I want you to know that my job is not to forcibly extract your secrets. My job is to help you share yourself and your message with humor (if applicable), accessible language, honesty and integrity. Sometimes, people need a little guidance getting to the heart of the matter, and as a veteran reporter and no-bullshit artist, I can help you figure that out, and structure your stories and message in book form. I'm very good at coming up with the one compelling theme, the one thread that will run through your entire book, the "hook," if you will, that makes your book easy to explain to people.
Anyway, let's talk. Let's figure things out. My ultimate goal with any collaboration is to make everyone happy and proud of the work we do together. So let's get started!


text:
Days after a selfie that caught smiling Miss Universe contestants from Israel and Lebanon posing together was posted on Instagram, fallout from the photo flap has spread from the Middle East to South Florida.
The picture was posted on the account of Miss Israel, Doron Matalon, touching off a firestorm of controversy for Miss Lebanon, Saly Greige, according to the Beirut-based Daily Star.
Lebanon and Israel are sworn enemies, and Lebanon prohibits contact between the countries.
On Monday, officials with the Donald Trump-owned beauty pageant issued a statement decrying the controversy.
"It is unfortunate to know a photo of four smiling women from different parts...


text:
The fate of financial reform may be decided in the coming year as congressional leaders on both sides of the aisle try to modify the Dodd-Frank Act.
In the two years since Congress passed the far-reaching regulatory overhaul, lawmakers have railed against the law for either not going far enough to reform Wall Street or being too burdensome to the industry. Republicans have sought to dismantle Dodd-Frank through a series of failed bills, placing Democrats on the defensive despite their own misgivings about the law.
But rhetoric has softened and bipartisan alliances have formed, leading some analysts to anticipate that meaningful legislation will be on the agenda next year.
"There is no repealing Dodd-Frank, but there will be efforts to eliminate duplicative parts of the law to avoid unintended consequences," said Jaret Seiberg, senior policy analyst at Guggenheim Partners.
Republicans remain motivated to gut key statutes, as evidenced by the failed "Plan B" proposal to avert the fiscal cliff. GOP leaders tucked language into that bill that would have cut automatic funding to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and stripped regulators of the power to unwind "too big to fail" institutions.
If the Plan B amendments are indicative of things to come, critics say, polarizing ideology may continue to prevent lawmakers from working together on technical fixes to Dodd-Frank. They point out that the makeup of the House and Senate will generally be the same in the next Congress, raising fears that gridlock will continue.
"Until the Republicans have an opportunity to control the Senate, it's very unlikely they will be proposing much reform legislation in the House," said Peter Wallison, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. "Most of what will happen will be a studying of reforms, but no legislation."
But there are signs that lawmakers have the political will to modify financial reform. Late Friday, the Senate unanimously passed a bill that would direct the Government Accountability Office to examine the economic benefits large banks receive for being "too big to fail."
The bill, sponsored by Sens. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, and David Vitter, R-La., asks the agency to study whether institutions with more than $500 billion in assets enjoy favorable pricing of their debt because of inflated credit ratings built on the perception that the government will always step in to prevent their collapse. It's unclear whether the House will take up the bill before the end of the session, but advocates of reform are encouraged by the broad support in the Senate.
Brown and Vitter are part of a small but growing group of Democrats and Republicans interested in exploring whether the nation's largest banks need to be downsized to protect financial stability. Analysts say the addition of Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., the architect of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, to the Senate banking committee will strengthen the coalition.
In a recent interview, Brown said he intends to reintroduce an amendment he co-sponsored with then-Sen. Ted Kaufman, D-Del., to limit the size and scope of bank operations. The Senate rejected the bill in 2010, but Brown said his colleagues have expressed interest in revisiting the measure.
"You can't do everything at once. Dodd-Frank was pretty comprehensive . . . but we're going to see legislative initiatives . . . on everything from capital requirements to dealing with the size of the banks," he said. "I'm optimistic that this isn't over."
Even if Brown's bill dies in committee, there are other proposals from influential policymakers that could make it to the floor. Federal Reserve governor Daniel Tarullo, for one, has called on Congress to restrict the expansion of big banks by limiting their non-deposit liabilities - funding that comes from sources other than consumer deposits in savings or other accounts.
"There is a potential for an alliance between liberals and conservatives," said James Kwak, co-author of "13 Bankers: The Wall Street Takeover and the Next Financial Meltdown." "Liberals don't like that big banks have lots of market power, which enables them to act in a predatory manor. Many conservatives don't like the fact that these banks have an implicit government subsidy."
Conservatives, however, are even more opposed to the government interfering with the financial markets by limiting the size of banks, said Kwak, who is also an associate professor at the University of Connecticut School of Law. The balance of power in Congress, he stressed, has not shifted enough for substantial reform to come from the Hill.
Getting any legislation passed will depend on the political will of the House Financial Services Committee. Incoming chairman Jeb Hensarling, R-Tex., is a staunch advocate of community banks, but he doesn't favor breaking up big banks. He has said that ending "too big too fail" is a top priority but has been vague on a plan. Hensarling could not be reached for further comment.
For her part, Rep. Maxine Waters of California, now the ranking Democrat on the Financial Services Committee, supports the blueprint that Dodd-Frank has already created for ending government bailouts, including orderly liquidation, said her chief of staff, Mikael Moore.
Economist Phillip Swagel, who teaches at the University of Maryland School of Public Policy, said, "It's clear Congress is thinking about the extent of government involvement in the financial markets, but the legislative approach will likely be incremental."
He added that parts of Dodd-Frank are still being phased in, and lawmakers may wait to judge the impact of the new rules before making changes.
Like many market watchers, Swagel wonders how housing finance reform will play out in Congress next year. There is a broad consensus that the secondary mortgage market must be reformed, but congressional leaders appear to be miles apart on strategy.
Hensarling opposes federal guarantees for home loans and wants to wind down Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Waters is not on board to place the mortgage market solely in the hands of private companies. Yet there are aspects of housing reform that she and Hensarling may agree on, even if their motivations are different.
Both lawmakers have questioned whether risk-retention rules, which force banks to hold 5 percent of mortgages on their books, will stall recovery in the housing market. Guggenheim's Seiberg said Waters has raised concerns that the Dodd-Frank provision might restrict credit availability, while Hensarling probably considers the rule a regulatory burden that could preclude the return of the private securitization market.
"Hensarling and Waters could become the new power couple in financial services. They're polar opposites from their political backgrounds, but they will share key objectives," Seiberg said.


text:
Homeowners that don't have underground drainage systems on their properties and experience houses shifting or basement leaks from water pooling in the yard should consider installing a dry well. A dry well is an inexpensive system that drains excess water from saturated low spots on a property.
A dry well consists of a buried drainpipe that runs from a catch basin near where the water is pooling to a collection container somewhere away from the house. Cutting holes in the bottom of the collection container (a plastic garbage can works well), allows the water to drain into the surrounding soil away from the house instead of pooling in the yard or leaking into the basement.