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Alert: W-2s and 1099s for 2014 will soon be arriving in the mail. So it's not too early to start thinking about putting together your Form 1040 for last year. For 2014, there are only two important federal income tax changes for individual taxpayers (beyond the usual inflation-indexing of tax rate brackets and various other tax parameters). Both changes have to do with Obamacare. Here's what you need to know at tax preparation time.
Penalty for failure to carry 'minimum essential coverage'
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act - also referred to as Obamacare - established a new federal income tax penalty for failure to carry so-called "minimum essential coverage." Last year was the introductory year for the penalty, which can potentially be owed for any month when qualifying health coverage was not in force. (In IRS-speak, the penalty is called a "shared responsibility payment.")
You don't have to worry about the penalty if you (and all members of your family, if applicable) had qualifying coverage for all of last year. In this case, simply check the box on line 61 of Form 1040, and you're done.
If you did not have qualifying coverage for the entire year, the first task is to determine if you are exempt from the penalty. For that, see the instructions to new IRS Form 8965 Health Coverage Exemptions (and instructions for figuring your shared responsibility payment). If you were exempt for last year, file Form 8965 with your 2014 Form 1040 to prove it. For additional information on exemptions, see IRS Publication 5187, Health Care Law: What's New for Individuals and Families. Both Form 8965 and Publication 5187 can be accessed at irs.gov.
If you were not exempt, the next step is to calculate the penalty amount that you owe using the worksheet in the instructions to Form 8965. Enter the penalty amount on line 61 of your return. For 2014, the penalty can range from $95 or less to a good deal more for higher-income folks. For plain-English details, see Owe the IRS money? Here's some good news. Also be aware that the penalty for 2015 and beyond can be much higher than the penalty for last year.
See Beware of 2015 health insurance individual mandate penalty
Premium assistance tax credit
The other Obamacare change for 2014 was the debut of the so-called premium assistance tax credit (PTC in IRS-speak). It is available to eligible individuals and families who obtain health coverage in a qualifying plan by enrolling through a state-run insurance exchange or through the federal exchange (healthcare.gov).
In general, you are eligible for the PTC if your household income was between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty line and you did not have access to affordable employer-sponsored coverage last year. The allowable credit amount can vary widely depending on your specific circumstances. For additional information on the PTC, see IRS Publication 974, Premium Tax Credit.
The PTC can be advanced directly to the insurance company to lower your monthly premiums or it can be claimed when you file your return. You may not know the exact amount of your allowable PTC for last year until you actually file your 2014 Form 1040. Calculate the PTC using new IRS Form 8962, Premium Tax Credit. Taken together, Form 8962 and its instructions add up to a daunting 17 pages. Enjoy!
If advance PTC payments were made on your behalf last year, the amount of those payments should be reported by the exchange to you on new Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement. You should receive Form 1095-A by no later than early February. Then calculate the difference between your advance PTC payments (if any) and the PTC amount you are actually entitled to claim on Form 8962. Enter any excess PTC amount on line 46 of Form 1040 and pay it when you file.
Finally, you should know that the PTC is a so-called "refundable credit." That means you can collect the full allowable credit amount even when it exceeds your federal income tax liability for last year. Specifically, the PTC amount is first used to reduce your federal income tax bill. After your bill has been reduced to zero, any remaining PTC can be either refunded to you in cash or used to make estimated tax payments for the 2015 tax year.
The bottom line
The good news is there were very few changes to the 2014 Form 1040, compared with the 2013 version. The bad news is the two Obamacare-related changes are very complicated. You may need to hire a tax pro to sort things out. The other bad news is that the Supreme Court may decide to disallow the PTC for folks who got their coverage through the federal exchange. (See The year's biggest tax stories.) However, if that happens then some sort of accommodation will probably be reached for folks who relied on collecting the credit for last year. Stay tuned. I'll keep you posted.


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CORK, IRELAND, and LONDON, UK– 23 July 2009 – ShoZu Ltd (www.shozu.com), the award-winning social media hub, and MAXroam (www.maxroam.com), the global roaming provider, today announced a partnership that gives mobile users a fast, convenient way to minimise the cost of sharing photos and video clips while roaming in more than 139 countries. Available immediately and initially for unlocked Apple iPhones, the service is the latest example of how ShoZu is adding value for customers of its paid smartphone applications.
Under the agreement, iPhone users who have purchased the ShoZu application – available for $4.99 from Apple's App Store – have access to MAXroam's service, which provides data roaming discounts of up to 70 percent in 139 countries. Additionally, MAXroam users also have access to the paid ShoZu iPhone application.
To sign up for MAXroam's service, ShoZu users request a coupon code from ShoZu.com and then redeem it on the MAXroam Web site to receive a $4.99 credit toward MAXroam service. ShoZu users also must purchase a MAXroam SIM card, which is included in the MAXroam service bundles.
Additionally, iPhone owners who visit the MAXroam Web site will be invited to purchase the ShoZu application from Apple's App Store if they don't already have it. They then will receive a coupon code that will give their MAXroam account a $4.99 credit.
After activating MAXroam's service, iPhone owners can use the ShoZu application to upload photos, videos and other content to multiple social networking sites simultaneously via ShoZu's media hub service, eliminating the chore – and expense – of uploading to each site one at a time. Users pay only the initial $4.99 cost of the ShoZu's iPhone application; there are no additional charges from ShoZu for using its media hub service.
"Smartphones make it easy it take photos and videos while travelling, but the steep cost of data roaming forces many users to wait until they get home to share that content," said Chris Wade, chairman and CEO of ShoZu. "By partnering with MAXroam, ShoZu eliminates that financial penalty, so users can inexpensively and quickly upload their photos and videos to multiple social networking sites simultaneously, allowing friends and family back home to keep up with the travels in real time. ShoZu's partnership with MAXroam furthers our goal of providing ShoZu customers with real savings and real value."
"MAXroam is delighted to be involved with innovators such as ShoZu," said Pat Phelan, CEO of MAXroam. "With MAXroam's bespoke technology, ShoZu users should save up 70 percent over carriers' standard roaming charges while enjoying near-global coverage and 24/7 customer support. MAXroam is perfectly poised to save money for ShoZu users."
Later this year, the ShoZu app will be available through additional app stores, including Microsoft's Windows Marketplace for Mobile, Nokia's Ovi and Research in Motion's BlackBerry App World. The application also is available for the BlackBerry and Windows Mobile operating systems directly from ShoZu at www.shozu.com and its mobile site at m.shozu.com.
About ShoZu
ShoZu is an intelligent social media hub currently used by people worldwide to enrich connections with the people in their lives by effortlessly exchanging video, pictures and commentary between mobile devices and favorite social networks, photo sharing sites and information resources. The company's patented technology provides fast, easy, one-click uploads of photos and video clips from the mobile to the Web, full-resolution photo and video delivery without compression, an emerging suite of services that push content to the phone, the ability to work in the background even if a connection is dropped, and other unique features that simplify and enhance the user experience. The company was founded in 2000 and has formed partnerships with some of the leading players in the mobile ecosystem, including Motorola and Samsung. For more information, visit www.ShoZu.com/AboutUs.
About MAXroam
Headquartered in Cork, Ireland, MAXroam is a brand name of Cubic Telecom. Cubic Telecom was established in 2006 and is a wholly Irish owned company. As a global mobile communications provider, Cubic brings the benefits of real competition to millions of global travellers. With our global cellular product, we enable travellers to stay in touch with home, office and family with a minimum of fuss. With its MVNE architecture, Cubic expects launch more than 100 virtual MVNOs before the end of 2010. Cubic has partners in USA, Hong Kong, Europe and Australia. For more information visit www.maxroam.com.
Media Contact:
Sue Huss
+1 619-379-4396

subset: commoncrawl


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I'm not a videographer, my skills don't really stretch that far. Although I would absolutely love to making videos it's just not something I feel comfortable getting into, my preference lies in still images. I prefer the much wider creative scope and the power a still image can hold. However, I want to change that.
I'm a huge film fan, my respect for history of cinema and filmmaking in general has grown and grown since I was in 4th year in school where I did a filmmaking course, a film studies class and a history of cinema class. And over the past few months I've become more and more attracted to the idea of directing a film myself. One thing that often pushed me away was the amount of people who work on a film set to make the project come together, I'm quite the control freak and not only do I like to be in charge of everything, but there's very few people I'd trust to help me and I like learning the extra skills involved.
I did a photo story to be used as my portfolio to get into college to study photography, and the issues in the story which the shoot addresses is one which I strongly believe in and really want to get out there and have it gather more attention. I've decided to take the plunge into the world of filmmaking in an effort to get this story out there and hopefully have these issues addressed by more people. So, a few weeks I started piecing together a script and developing my idea to suit the different medium. But the best thing is, my portfolio pretty much acts as a visual shooting guide/basic storyboard.
Instagram photo from Stuart Comerford
It's been rather difficult to contain the world I've created in the script, it's hard to not let other storylines drift into the spotlight. I'm trying to replicate a real world environment and keep it as realistic as possible without going too over-the-top and I'm finding it rather difficult but the script is coming together and is practically done, all other tweaks would be done during filming.
As I'm in the middle of my Leaving Cert exams I can't start it quite yet, but at the end of this month the production will be in full swing! Hopefully everything will be wrapped up and released by August (actually, it needs to be into post-production at least by August since my leading male is moving to England in the first week of August!). I'm really excited to make this.
The film is a documentation of the frequently avoided subject of teenage depression, following the story of one teenage girl as she deals with bullying, social exclusion, isolation, and domestic violence during a pivotal time in her life when she's finishing school and concerned about the purpose of her existence. Not everybody "fits in" as a teenager due to it being such a crucial period of personal development and self-discovery, and I hope to create something that at least opens people's eyes to a topic which is very serious and demands attention.
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram


text: Winner of the Sundance Special Jury Prize in Documentary and the inspiration for a 2008 U.N. Resolution classifying rape as a weapon of war, this extraordinary film, shot in the war zones of the Democratic Republic of Congo shatters the silence that surrounds the use of sexual violence as a weapon of conflict. Many tens of thousands of women and girls have been systematically kidnapped, raped, mutilated and tortured by soldiers from both foreign militias and the Congolese army. A survivor of gang rape herself, Emmy Award winning filmmaker Lisa F. Jackson travels through the DRC to understand what is happening and why.


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First Try Wednesdays
Boo Johnson and Justin Schulte at SXSW
March 26, 2013
We are switching things up a bit this week with a First Try Wednesday. We tracked down Boo Johnson and Justin Schulte while skating the House Skatepark in Austin during our trip to SXSW to see if they could put it down first try. And since we were with the Mountain Dew team we figured we would see how many "Dew" phrases we could fit in a three minute edit... enjoy.


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YELLOWOOD Riser pad high
- Ytrucks white/silver high riser pads
8 longer torx 5 mm screws
2 risers 1.5 mm
Get more pop on your tricks and extra space for your carving without wheel bits.
Tuning options for the expert Fingerboarder.
Torx heads were designed to resist cam-out, thereby offering improved torque transfer between the driver and the fastener. This feature also reduces wear on driver bits.


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LAS VEGAS -- He still remembers the boat, that 30-foot speeder that careened off punishing waves in the Atlantic Ocean, waves that dumped gallons of icy water onto the deck, soaking the 25 or so passengers stuffed like sardines on it. He can still hear the screams of the women and children ringing in his ears. For Erislandy Lara, it was the price you pay for defection.
In 2008, Lara was desperate. The Cuban boxer had attempted to defect a year earlier, in Brazil. He spent a month holed up in a hotel with fellow fighter Guillermo Rigondeaux before giving up and returning to Cuba. This time was different. This time he was going to get out, or die trying.
For Lara, Cuba had become unbearable. He grew up in Guantanamo, sharing a makeshift two-room home with his mother, Marisol, and sister, Janet. Food was scarce, sometimes just sugar and water, and what little the family did have Lara made sure went to his mother and sister first. Boxing wasn't so much a passion as an excuse to get out of school. He rose quickly in the Cuban boxing system and traveled the world competing -- and often winning -- international tournaments.
"I started to slowly think, 'This sport is for me,'" Lara told SI.com. "My time is coming."
Here's the thing about boxing in Cuba: Awards don't yield rewards, at least not financial ones. Lara's status as one of the national team's elite afforded him a nicer room and some stylish training gear. But there was no stipend for fighters and certainly no purses to be won. Cuban fighters were amateurs for life, bound by birthright to win medals for the country.
To discourage defection, officials terrorized young prospects with tales of greedy professional promoters -- Don King's name would come up a lot, Lara says -- who would rob them of their winnings. They would show videos of U.S. fights and bemoan the brutality of fighting without headgear.
"They said it was too dangerous," Lara said. "Amateur boxing was classier."
Lara saw something else. The streets of Havana were littered with the broken bodies of former Cuban greats. Fighters Lara grew up following, gold medalists, world champions, walked around drunk and penniless, brains bruised from a lifetime of battering in the ring.
"It was such a shame," Lara said. "These were men that did so much."
The thought of becoming them terrified Lara. He loved his family, which in 2007 included two young children. He couldn't let that be his future. And after his failed defection in Brazil, Lara was banned from boxing. He walked those streets, saw those broken men, saw his life and theirs begin to phase together.
So in 2008, he resolved to make one last attempt. He walked 15 miles to a beachfront where the boat was waiting for him. The price for defection was $15,000, but once at sea the men in charge recognized him and raised the price to $200,000, to be paid by Lara's sponsor.
Pay it, they told Lara, or we will throw you overboard.
"It was like an American seeing Floyd Mayweather said Luis DeCubas Jr., Lara's co-manager. "They wanted what they wanted, and they were going to get it."
Lara agreed. The boat was at sea for 14 hours, stealthily traversing the 125-miles to Cancun, Mexico. The transport fee - - negotiated down to $40,000 by Lara's first promoter, Ahmet Ohner -- was paid in cash and Lara was off to board a plane to Hamburg, Germany, off to begin a new life. That life has led him to Las Vegas, where Lara will face Mexican star Saul Alvarez on Saturday at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in a showdown between the world's top junior middleweights (9 p.m., Showtime PPV).
"To be here, it's incredible," Lara said. "This is the reason I came to this country, to fight in these types of fights, and to fight at this level."
The smile split his face from ear to ear, a toothy grin Lara flashes often these days. For most fighters, public workouts are a chore. But on Thursday, standing in the middle of a makeshift ring on the MGM Grand casino floor, Lara wore the look of a man who didn't want to be anywhere else. He shadowboxed for a few minutes, posed for pictures with anyone who asked and signed autographs for many of the hundreds of fans standing ringside.
For Lara, the hype surrounding a fight with Alvarez -- a fight that will earn him a career-best $1 million -- is a welcome experience. The road here hasn't been easy. He turned pro in 2008 and marched through his first 15 opponents. In 2011, Lara, in his biggest fight to date, lost a disputed decision to Paul Williams, a decision that was so bad the New Jersey State Athletic Commission suspended all three judges.
Lara rebounded with three wins -- with a draw against Vanes Martirosyan sandwiched in the middle -- including a knockout of heavy handed Alfredo Angulo. Last December, Lara picked apart former 154-pound champion Austin Trout in a lopsided decision win.
No one has ever questioned Lara's talent. But his technical style -- which has contributed to just 12 knockouts -- isn't exactly fan friendly. So while the hard hitting Alvarez became a star, Lara toiled in his shadow. While Trout, Angulo and James Kirkland were in the mix for mega fights, Lara waited his turn.
"He asked for every fight that he's been in because nobody wants to fight him," said Lara's trainer, Ronnie Shields. "He only wants to fight the best fighters."
Against Alvarez (43-1-1), he will finally get the chance. When Alvarez stopped Angulo last March, Lara (19-1-2) crashed the press conference and demanded the fight. And against the advice of his promoter, Alvarez, who has developed a reputation for being willing to take on all comers, eventually accepted.
While Alvarez picked Lara over a handful of safer opponents, Lara says he doesn't owe Alvarez a thing.
"Absolutely not," Lara said. "I don't owe him anything other than left hands. I forced this fight. It wasn't because he wanted to take this fight. We've been after this fight for two years and I've been putting pressure on him through social media [and] interviews and jumping on stage. That's what pressured him to take this fight. I know he didn't want this fight, and on [Saturday] you're going to see the reason why he didn't want this fight."
These days, Lara's life is fairly settled. He lives in Texas with his wife, Yudi, and their two children, with another on the way. He has aligned himself with boxing power broker Al Haymon, is making good money and is in a position, with a win, to thrust his name into the mix of opponents for Floyd Mayweather in 2015.
"The kid trains as hard as anybody I've ever seen," Shields said. "And this is every day."
Lara's days in Cuba are gone, but not forgotten. His mother and two sons are still there; he hasn't seen them in six or years. They talk a few times a month but his defection has made it impossible to go and see them. He longs for the day they will be reunited, though he openly admits he has no idea when that will be.
For now though the focus is Alvarez, on winning the fight he has long felt he deserved and becoming the star he has long desired to be.


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Earlier this week, the UFC's award-winning media rankings (officially known as the "UFC Rankings presented by RAM") expanded from a list of the top 10 contenders in each division to a list of the top 15 contenders in each division. So why is this important? It's not. Nothing about the UFC rankings is important in any way whatsoever. But the timing is awfully convenient.
As you may recall, welterweight contender Tyron Woodley is facing Carlos Condit in a #1 contender fight at UFC 171 in March. Originally, UFC president Dana White dismissed this matchup because Woodley wasn't ranked. But shortly thereafter, Woodley got the fight anyway, mostly because he was the best 170-pounder available at that exact moment.
It would seem silly to put on a #1 contender match between the current #2 welterweight contender and a guy with (NR) next to his name. And so, the UFC arbitrarily expanded their rankings to include the top 15 contenders in each division — and that, my friends, is why Tyron Woodley is now officially ranked at #11.
In related news, Scott Jorgensen is currently ranked as the #12 flyweight contender in the UFC, despite a lifetime record of 0-1 at 125 pounds, and Chael Sonnen is still ranked higher at light-heavyweight than he is at middleweight. Don't even get us started.


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They don't want to talk about it.
That appears to be Penn State trustees' consensus reaction to the news Tuesday that their top candidate to succeed outgoing University President Rodney Erickson is under investigation for padding his pay with "unauthorized income."
Trustees had no interest in outing the name of a candidate they had decided not to hire last week, when a meeting scheduled to elect a new president was abruptly cancelled because of last-minute concerns.
But even after Dr. David R. Smith's woes at the State University of New York system became public Tuesday night, most Penn State board members contacted by Penn Live last night either did not respond to interview requests or declined comment on search specifics.
Trustee Keith Eckel, one of the board's agricultural delegates, stuck to the board's party line, saying only that the board is continuing to "pursue the search aggressively, and I am very optimistic about the outcome."
Alumni Trustee Anthony Lubrano, one of the more outspoken board members, added that he sees the revelations about Smith as buttressing his argument that the full board should be involved in interviews with two or three finalists.
Lubrano has been critical of the current process in which the full board is only being presented with one finalist for a quick meeting, and then an up or down vote.


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Separate names with a comma.
Discussion in 'Design and Graphics' started by marchcapital, Apr 8, 2006.
I can't take my eyes off the attrocious logo of doom. Otherwise it looks fine for the type of site it is.
lol it is the logo of doom...ive been telling the ppl that...there close to changing it i think
I really like it! I actually want to buy a couple lamps/furniture. too bad there are no prices or customizable pieces (ie black leather instead of 'chocolate') nice job.
The 'O' has to go. Give the whole logo a more 3D effect, bevel it, emboss it, something, for a website that looks that nice, the logo is the only sore spot
It is certainly not a bad site at all. I don't care about the logo either.
How about opening it in Photoshop and filling with white as a good start.
Just try scalling down the "O" on the tittle or make it smoother.
Makes a good starting impression. Yet, from all the UI testing that I do, I have seen interest dropping to almost zero among users the minute they realize a site is no more than one click deep. Right after that, they will even find the transparent product info. rather annoying.
didn't we do this site before march? Why bring it up again? I'm guessing your client wants you to copy it exactly or something because you keep referring to it's style.
I think it looks like one huge pop-up ad.
The poll doesn't really give you many options - it goes from great to very good to unacceptable. Where is the choice for "eh, it's aight."?
Anyway - the logo is horrendous, like mentioned before, and overall it feels too loose. I know that it is supposed to be open and airy, but the proportions and layout are just too loose.
I can't really explain - you can tell it is trying to emulate a style, rather than having one.
I think it's just a little too 'ham-handed', especially the big type elements. They just don't seem crafted very well. The photography is nice, the typography is not.
Not knowing an awful lot about webdesign but a lot about shopping (!) I am able to offer a consumer viewpoint.
The actual design (including the O which I like?!) is very striking and I like it! However as somebody mentioned, the fact that there are no pricing, product information, ordering or anything more than one click deep mean that I am likely to google for other home furnishing (etc) online emporiums.
It's basically a huge advertisement, and nothing more. it doesn't serve a purpose. Also, I was trying to click on the three blobs in the top right to take me to the "home" page of the relevant topic...no such transfer occured.
Nice design, work to do...
EDIT : it appears MarchCapital has been banned...


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Full-time undergraduate (3 years)
UCAS code: W281Apply via UCAS
Develop art skills relevant to the fast-moving computer games industry on modules designed with the help of key professionals. Learn how you can make an impact in games creation using visual research, creative experimentation and technical development, by working with programmers, audio technicians and musicians.
Our BA (Hons) Computer Games Art degree will equip you with 3D computer games skills in modelling, texturing and animation, enabling you to create characters, environments and special effects.
You'll learn how to plan your designs using concept art and bring them to life using animation and interactive games software such as Unity 3D. You'll also be given access to the latest technologies, supported by a dedicated Computer Graphics Technical Officer.
According to Microsoft, "65% of today's students will be doing jobs that don't even exist yet". Our flexible modules will allow you to explore different aspects of the digital arts as well as specialise in your chosen area, helping you future-proof your career.
Thanks to our close links with other Cambridge School of Art courses, you'll also have the chance to work with illustrators, animators, graphic designers and film students, preparing you for future collaborations and employment in creative industries outside of gaming.
With help from industry-based lecturers as well as our own teaching staff, you'll be shown the most up-to-date practices for artists working in computer games. We have links with many local games companies including Ninja Theory, Jagex and Frontier. We're also partners with the Global Science & Technology Forum, giving you access to cutting-edge research materials.
Course Leader: Baris Isikguner
The Guardian University Guide 2018
Find out more about working with the creative industries or our placements and work experience.
The skills and knowledge you'll learn on our Computer Games Art course will not only help you get a career in the gaming industry, but are also in demand across other sectors including film and television production, marketing, advertising, web design, production and broadcast media.
The management skills you'll pick up can be transferred to project management roles in many different industries.
Our industry partners not only provide expert speakers for the course – they also get involved with our annual festival Brains Eden, co-organised by local gaming network Games Eden. This four-day event includes:
ARM, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, Frontier and Just Flight have recently offered internships and work opportunities to our students.
This course is based in Cambridge, where 18% of the UK gaming industry is based (source: nesta.org.uk).
You'll show your progress through a combination of written and practical work.
Cambridge School of Art has been inspiring creativity since 1858 when it was opened by John Ruskin.
Engaging with current debates surrounding contemporary practice and with the state-of-the-art facilities, Cambridge School of Art houses light, bright studios, industry-standard film and photographic facilities, and 150-year-old printing presses alongside dedicated Apple Mac suites. Our digital art gallery, the Ruskin Gallery, exhibits both traditional shows and multimedia presentations, from national and international touring exhibitions and our own students.
We are the only university in Cambridge offering art and design courses at higher education level. A tight-knit community of artists, academics and over 900 students, we collaborate across our University, the creative industries, and other sectors. Cambridge is a centre for employment in the creative industries and there are rich opportunities for collaboration with the city's entertainment, technological, scientific, arts and heritage industries.
Our graduates have a history of winning national and international awards and an excellent employment record. They include Pink Floyd's Syd Barrett and Dave Gilmour, Spitting Image creators Peter Fluck and Roger Law, and illustrator Ronald Searle, the creator of St Trinian's.
We're part of the Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences, a hub of creative and cultural innovation whose groundbreaking research has real social impact.
Our campus is close to the centre of Cambridge, often described as the perfect student city.
Your course will have a new home in Compass House, which will extend our campus along East Road. You'll have the latest technology at your fingertips and be able to collaborate with other students on innovative projects to hone your skills.
Your learning will take place on a dedicated suite of high-end PCs with graphics tablets, all running top of the range 3D modelling, animation and compositing software such as Maya, Motion Builder, 3DS Max, After Effects, Mudbox, ZBrush, and Unity 3D.
You'll also have access to our motion capture equipment and an arsenal of HD cameras and Digital SLRs (for HDRI capture). All your work will be supported by our dedicated Computer Graphics Technical Officer.
For more information about tuition fees, including the UK Government's commitment to EU students, please see our UK/EU funding pages
Estimated cost of materials across the three years is £500
Most English undergraduates take out a tuition fee loan with Student Finance England. The fees are then paid directly to us. The amount you repay each month is linked to your salary and repayments start in April after you graduate.
How to apply for a tuition fee loan
If you choose not to take out a loan you can pay your fees directly to us. There are two ways to do this: either pay in full, or through a three- or six-month instalment plan starting at registration.
You must pay your fees up-front, in full or in instalments. You will also be asked for a deposit or sponsorship letter for undergraduate courses. Details will be in your offer letter.Paying your fees
Most new undergraduate students can apply for government funding to support their studies and university life. This includes Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans. There are additional grants available for specific groups of students, such as those with disabilities or dependants.
We also offer a fantastic range of ARU scholarships, which provide extra financial support while you're at university. Find out more about eligibility and how to apply.
We offer a number of scholarships, as well as an early payment discount. Explore your options:
You will be required to attend an interview of around 20 minutes, during which you will evidence your discussion with a portfolio or, if you are resident outside of the UK, an e-portfolio.
For more information on how to prepare and submit your portfolio please visit our portfolios and interviews page, or go straight to the detailed guidance for BA (Hons) Computer Games Art portfolios
Important additional notes
Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements. Other equivalent qualifications may be accepted for entry to this course, please email firstname.lastname@example.com for further information.
All tariff points must come from A levels. Points from AS levels cannot be counted towards the total tariff points required for entry to this course.
We welcome applications from international and EU students, and accept a range of international qualifications.
If English is not your first language, you'll need to make sure you meet our English language requirements for undergraduate courses.
If you don't meet our English language requirements, we offer a range of courses which could help you achieve the level required for entry onto a degree course.
We also provide our own English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT) in the UK and overseas. To find out if we are planning to hold an ELPT in your country, contact our country managers.
Full-time undergraduate (3 years)
Full-time undergraduate (3 years)
Full-time undergraduate (3 years)
Read this institution's report
01245 68 68 68Enquire online
+44 1245 68 68 68Enquire online


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Last Friday I made an impulse buy. I saw on makerist.de that they were having a sale which also included the Frau Ava pattern by Hedi näht and since I was thinking about that pattern from the moment it popped up on Instagram I quickly hit the "Buy" button. On Friday night I taped the PDF pattern and on Sunday I made the coatigan. Of course, I wore it to work on Monday.
Hedi, a German blogger and pattern designer, ist a loose fitting coatigan with wide three quarter sleeves and pockets in the front. It only consists of two pattern pieces, the pockets and the facings. A very quick make indeed.
Stadtmantel by Crafteln, but it's comfy.


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Sixth grader Delvis Kaliqui told Action News, "When you are on the Internet, it teaches you a little bit about it, but it doesn't ruin the entire book."
The book is called 39 Clues. Scholastic is hoping it will be the next Harry Potter bookshelf blockbuster. But this 10 book series has a twist. Each novel, written by a different author, will have web-related games, prizes and clues to supplement the mystery novels.
Library assistant Brenda Meskill says it has even the most reluctant readers hooked.
Sixth grader, Armela Vruzhaj said "It's a really good book, it's a mystery you can go online and it makes you want to keep reading it and never stop."
The novels tell different stories of the most powerful family in the world, the Cahills. The readers are given 39 clues both online and in the books to the secret behind the family's power. There are also history lessons in the book. Real historical figures like Ben Franklin and Mozart are rumored to be a part of the Cahill family.
Dana Cummings from Scholastic said, "To really participate in this you have to read the book, so if they really want to find the 39 clues, they have to read the book."
Other publishing companies are using video games to entice readers as well. David Mitchell of Temple University believes the publishing industry is in a crisis as the population increasingly uses the Internet for it's reading material.
Mitchell told Action News, "The relationship of the development of Internet and video games to books is a way of trying to revive the currency of books themselves."
But Mitchell warns although this integration may cultivate a child's interest in reading, it can stifle a child's creativity.
Mitchell said, "It used to be when we read materials we often took those materials and we acted them out in our play lives and video games are substituting that translation to imaginative life that children actively engage in."
On a positive note, Mitchell added that videogames alone are finite, so once you achieve the goal or the end of the game you're done. However these games are supplemented by books, which feed the imagination because most novels contain some irresolvable human problems that may cause you to think about the book after you're done, which of course is good for the brain.
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Find Out Everything From Your Wedding Vendors
A wedding planning puts at a test many of your organizational abilities: it is about the stress, the time pressure, the skills of negotiation, the self control in many situations and attention focused in many sides. You have lots of tasks to accomplish, lots of to think about, bet first you go in the research to see the offers. Once you meet with a vendor you have lots of concerns and questions. You may forget some and as no to remain with doubts and questions marks, as not to go back and show lack of professionalism you need to be organized and have a plan to follow.
What are the main questions to ask wedding vendors? First of all, it all has its ground base: speaking about flowers, about the wedding location, about the wedding cake and so on. For each and every part of the wedding, for each and every category of wedding supplies you have a whole list of concerns and needed to be explained facts.
The first part is the religious ceremony the questions to ask wedding vendors about this may these:
- What date is available, as well as what hours?
- How long the ceremony will be?
- What are the prices?
- Do they have music-choirs- included or you have to pay it separately?
- Is there a chance for you to select the type of ceremony, the readings?
Apart from this, in particular with the priest you have to establish the rules as if you want to come up with your own decorations many priests will not agree, as well to share words about the wedding vows.
Next, the wedding location. Here you have to establish everything about the time and wedding program and services, the questions to ask wedding vendors being about the prices for the waitresses, about the price for the entire location, about their flexible decision to be at your service, on regards of the program as you cannot fix a time for the party ending, about the capacity and number of guests, parking included or not.
For the others parts, the flowers, the cake, any delivery needed to be made, for the music and so on the questions to ask wedding vendors will be about first the experience in the domain- you need to have a balance in the quality and the price and so this is the first reference. Then, ask about the payment part, if there is needed an advance, if there is needed for a contract to be signed, the delivery part included as fee or not, the time to place the order, terms and conditions as everything to be as planned– no delays, no complete payment if something goes wrong and many others.


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Originally posted by MystikMushroom
That almost doesn't look real. That looks like a J.J. Abrams or Michael Bay movie scene!
It reminds me of a real-life Transformer.
I must own one for my daily commute!
Indeed. Its a great rip off of the Yak-141
Speaking at Eglin Air Force Base, Lt Cdr Tidball – who has 1,300 hours behind him in the cockpit of Harriers, followed by time flying the American F-18 Super Hornet – says the F35 is "a great aircraft to fly". He continued: "It's extremely responsive, it's got a lot of thrust and the fly-by-wire control system makes the aircraft simple to fly. "My background is the Sea Harrier – a pilot's aeroplane, a stick and rudder type aircraft. This takes away that sort of demand and frees up the ability of the pilot to operate the mission systems and sensors so that he can deploy the aircraft operationally, effectively." The small British team are based with VMFAT 501 – Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, known as the Warlords, who were formed specially in 2010 to bring the F35 into service with the US Marine Corps.
I posted this on another thread, but it's pretty damn cool to watch, so reposting here for any to enjoy...
This is the carrier variant of the JSF, and really shows some major advances in VTOL technology.
Skip to about 30 seconds in to get to the takeoff.
This one also, has a lot of info


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URW3 XG Wiki
This is the wiki for the Uncertainty Reasoning for the World Wide Web Incubator Group (URW3-XG). See the charter for an explanation of the XG's work.
URW3 Work Plan
Final Report Status and Specific Instructions on Each Use Case
Draft Final Report
Draft of Final Recommendations
Final Report Planning and Assignments Page
Submitted issues and resolution status
Quick Links
Table of Use Cases
WineSweetness (from URSW 2006)
Recommendation (from URSW 2006)
Ontology based reasoning and retrieval from large-scale databases
What is web specific versus problems that are hard even on your computer
Collection of Uncertainty Examples/Use Cases from the Healthcare and Life Sciences
And also some other links, to save scrolling
Use Cases
Creating Use Cases
To create a new use case:
- Edit this page
- Copy one of the use case links. Paste it under the existing use cases. Change the title inside the quotes to the title of the use case you want to create.
- Save this page.
- You should now see a link to your new use case. Click on this link.
You will see a notice that the page does not yet exist, along with a list of templates. Click on UseCaseTemplate. This will create a new use case page using the template.
- Edit the template to add the information for your use case.
- Save your new use case.
Use Case title: Discovery
Use Case title: SOAExecutionContext
Use Case title: AppointmentMaking
Use Case title: WineSweetness (from URSW 2006)
Use Case title: Recommendation (from URSW 2006)
Other Use cases from URSW Workshop 2006
Use Case title: Use Cases from the Charter
Use Case title: Extraction-Annotation
Use Case title: User prefference modelling for top-k answers
Use Case title: Belief fusion and opinion pooling
Use Case title: Soft Shopping Agent
Use Case title: Ontology Mediated Multimedia Information Retrieval
Use Case title: Ontology based reasoning and retrieval from large-scale databases
Use Case title: What is web specific versus problems that are hard even on your computer
Collection of Uncertainty Examples/Use Cases from the Healthcare and Life Sciences
Use Case title: Ontology Mapping
Uncertainty Ontology
Evidence Discussion
URSW 2007 at ISWC
Workshop web page: http://c4i.gmu.edu/ursw2007/
People from URW3 who are going to URSW 2007 in Busan
Open Issues
Open Issues Regarding Use Case Discussions
Uncertainty Reasoning Methodology References
Useful information for writing to the wiki
Interesting starting points:
RecentChanges: see where people are currently working
WikiSandBox: feel free to change this page and experiment with editing
FindPage: search or browse the database in various ways
SyntaxReference: quick access to wiki syntax
SiteNavigation: get an overview over this site and what it contains
How to use this site
A Wiki is a collaborative site, anyone can contribute and share:
Edit any page by pressing Edit at the top or the bottom of the page
Create a link to another page with joined capitalized words (like WikiSandBox) or with ["quoted words in brackets"]
- Search for page titles or text within pages using the search box at the top of any page
See HelpForBeginners to get you going, HelpContents for all help pages.
To learn more about what a WikiWikiWeb is, read about WhyWikiWorks and the WikiNature. Also, consult the HelpMiscellaneous/FrequentlyAskedQuestions page.
This wiki is powered by MoinMoin.


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As a parent, one is responsible for one's child. This includes signing them up to attend day care. It is, at the most basic level, simply polite to inform the day care that a child will be absent. In addition, with a society that requires multiple levels of security just to log onto a website, how could we not justify accountability for the whereabouts of children who are young enough that they require supervision by a provider.
I think that Day Care Providers should have a phone number for parents to call if children are not there. If the parents don't call then I think it is a great idea for the center to call them. I think in this day in age with everything that happens it is a great added security feature.
I believe that child care providers should check on the child if they have an abundance of absences. I deem it very inappropriate to inquire if a child just misses one day. If the child is missing days in a row then yes of course it is fine to check and see if everything is okay. in the case that the child is absent for a minimum of 3 days it is okay anything less should not be allowed especially if the child care providers want to maintain a "non-stalkish" reputation
Day care providers should check with parents as a matter of caution if a child is absent. Part of caring for a child is making sure they are okay during the hours you are caring for them. Schools call when children are absent and day care providers should do the same.


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text: Hi Just starting up the XRumer learning curve. I'm having a problem with the project email verification. Ive selected gmail.com filled in all boxes . Hit Register account. After a few seconds the captcha box displays. I then fill in the captch and then a few seconds later the catpcha box will come up again and again and again. What am I doing wrong


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The rules:
My 6 Things:
1. I love musicals. OLD musicals - Gene Kelly - ANY musical with him - but I detest The Wizard of Oz. Cyd Charisse, Ann Miller...
2. I love Country Music up to a point - but to relax - it's gotta be Sinatra or even better - Dean Martin. That man was cool to the nth degree.
3. I am a Nora Roberts/JD Robb fan - love my brain candy reading.
4. I love prunes. Yeah, prunes, pitted prunes. but ya gotta be careful with those...
5. I hate to drive here in DC. This could be a problem when DH deploys!
6. Love NCIS, CSI (except Miami... tell me who wears a dark suit in Miami in the summer...) and my secret vice - Organization shows, Clean House etc. But BBC dramas - especially Jane Austen and that ilk... yeah, I could watch those all day. And if anyone has seen the Sharpe series - that's another goodie (Sean Bean was just ... just....hmmmm)


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Consumer expert and spokesperson for Pissedconsumer, Vlad Nardin, shares six things you can do to make sure your holiday purchases make it on time
1. VERIFY THAT THE ITEM YOU WANT IS NOT ON BACK-ORDER – Even if you shop online, call the websites phone number and verify the status of the item you want to buy
2. WATCH OUT FOR "SHIP TO STORE" OPTIONS – Some retailers will offer free or lower rate shipping if they ship directly to your local retail store, but at check out your store may not be available. Go to your local retail location and if the item is not available there, have the store order it. This way there's no confusion and you truly get the free shipping.
3. DO NOT SHOP ON LAYAWAY – Many layaway options are very limited to toys and some electronics and the fees attached are prohibitive.
4. VISIT THE POST OFFICE OR UPS STORE EARLY IN THE MORNING – Many gifts fail to make it on time simply due to confusion at the post office or UPS store as the day wears on. Workers become tired, things get missed, so do your shipping early in the morning when the doors first open.
5. VERIFY CHRISTMAS SHIPPING DATES AND DEADLINES – Many retailers still do not offer an arrival for Christmas guarantee, so be sure to read the fine print carefully, and when in doubt, call for verification.
6. SHOP ONLINE AT E-RETAILERS AND NOT BRICK AND MORTAR STORES – A consumer has a better chance of receiving an item from Amazon rather than the hot item on a retail store's website. Amazon uses an advance distribution and inventory system, which increases the chances of your item arriving on time.


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source: http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/10620/info It is reported that CuteNews is affected by multiple cross-site scripting vulnerabilities. These issues are due to a failure of the application to properly sanitize user-supplied URI input. The problems present themselves when malicious HTML and script code is sent to the application through the 'id' parameter of the multiple scripts. These issues could permit a remote attacker to create a malicious URI link that includes hostile HTML and script code. If this link were followed, the hostile code may be rendered in the web browser of the victim user. http://www.example.com/show_archives.php?subaction=showcomments&id=<script>alert(document.cookie);</script>&archive=&start_from=&ucat=&&archive=&start_from=&ucat=&
Related ExploitsTrying to match CVEs (1): CVE-2004-0660
Trying to match OSVDBs (1): 7283
Other Possible E-DB Search Terms: CuteNews 0.88/1.3, CuteNews 0.88, CuteNews


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Explore music
By Country
01 Brisas Del Zulia - Reyna, F
02 La Muerte Del Animal - Lili
07 Son Chispitas - Lilia Vera
12 San Juán To Lo Tiene - Se
18 Carnaval - Trio Llanero
Pajarillo verde
Popular music in Venezuela emanated from a meeting of three cultures: the five-thousand-year-old musical traditions of the indigenous peoples became mixed with the Arab-Andalusian songs and dances of the Spanish conquerors and the complex sound patterns of the music of the African slaves forced to work along the Caribbean coast of Venezuela. These manifold ethnic and multicultural melting-processes turned Venezuela into a country of Mestizos. The complex tones, the numerous rhythmic variations and the virtuosity it demands of the singers of its folk poetry, have made Venezuelan folk music one of Latin America's most attractive. Prominence is given here to the national instrument, the cuatro, a small, multi-stringed guitar that requires a high degree of musicality and dexterity. Other string instruments included on this recording are the guitar, the mandolin, the bandola, the harp, plus drums and maracas. The songs and dance and instrumental pieces are performed by Venezuela's most renowned interpreters: Lilia Vera, the illustrious voice of Venezuelan folk music and winner of numerous national and international prizes; four thorough-bred musicians forming the Serenata Guayanesa who have been exploring their country's musical tradition for 25 years and have become almost synonymous with Venezuelan music, from traditional rhythms to coffee house music; Fredy Reyna, who made the cuatro famous all over the world; and the Trio Llanero, who in the late 1970s became the highly successful heirs of the country's harp-playing tradition.
<< back


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It's not official yet, but I got the phone call this morning from Joni Labaqui. I hope Joni doesn't mind if I blow it open via blog. This is a brand spanking new blog anyway, and I am sure Joni will have the other Finalist results posted by the time anyone gets around to reading this.
Wow, a Finalist at last. This is my fourth entry for WOTF and the first time I made the top list. Previously I went 3 for 3 on entries / Honorable Mentions, and I had hoped very much that my Q1 entry for the Volume 26 anthology would climb out of the HM pool. I can't express how pleased I am that my story made it, and now competes with 7 other entries for the coveted three placement spots — including the ultra-coveted 1st place win, which then goes on to compete with the other three 1st place wins from the other three quarters for the Grand Prize, which can net a writer up to $6,000 by the time (s)he is done collecting all their prize money.
That is some serious bread, people. As in, you can't find another professional short SF&F fiction market in the world that offers up that kind of bread. Especially to new writers!
Anyway, there are lots of adjectives to describe how I am feeling: excited, relieved, ecstatic, and newly apprehensive all over again. How will my story do, against 7 other entries of equal or greater calibre? Especially when being judged by heavyweight Name SF&F authors?? Thinking about it too much sorta makes me a little crazy, so now I have to go back to trying not to think about it, and waiting out the weeks and weeks while the judging takes place.
I do know one thing. This news came at exactly the right time for me. Just like when I got my first HM back almost two years ago. My writing discipline has sucked in 2009 and I've been letting the "everything else" part of my life swamp the writing part, and I've felt stuck, flumoxed, and utterly unable to be productive. Well, maybe now I can un-ass myself and get back to work. Maybe I just need to know. Know what, I am not sure really. Perhaps after working so long to attain pro recognition and publication, maybe I was in need of some kind of real validation: yes, this is possible and is going to happen.
I'm saving my most explosive joy for when I actually WIN the damn thing. But for now, I am feeling mighty, mighty pleased. If writing is a sport, and the WOTF contest is a basketball court, then getting HM is like driving to the hoop or shooting a jumper and watching the ball crawl off the rim. Getting a Finalist spot is like shooting a three-pointer and watching it almost go in — it's circling the inside of the rim as I write this. Around and around. Will it finally drop, and will I finally score? Or will it roll back out and force me to rebound, dribble out, and try for another shot?


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Animal-Assisted Social Work Certificate
comprehensive education & training in human-animal interactions
The Animal-Assisted Social Work (AASW) academic certificate is the first of its kind in the nation. It explores the therapeutic use of animals in many types of social work practice—a new and exciting aspect of the field.
By earning this certificate, you'll learn how to:
- Create, implement and evaluate Animal-Assisted Intervention programs in which an animal becomes a teacher, therapist, facilitator and support system.
- Select the most appropriate animals for particular therapy modalities and how to care for the animals in accordance with nationally recognized welfare standards.
- Understand how to identify, assess and intervene in "Link" violence—the frequent connection between animal-abuse and violence toward people.
- Integrate concepts of nature-based therapeutics and conservation in your social work practice.
- Become an advocate for animal welfare and ethics.
The AASW certificate adds three specialized, elective courses to the Master of Social Work (MSW) curriculum at the Graduate School of Social Work during the concentration year:
- SOWK 4795: Integration of Animals Into Therapeutic Settings
- SOWK 4796: Animal-Assisted Social Work Practice
- SOWK 4797: Issues for Evidence Supported Animal-Assisted Social Work Practice
Participation in the AASW certificate also includes a field internship offering opportunities for AASW practice and supervision. The Animal-Assisted Social Work certificate is available for Denver Campus MSW students. This certificate is not available to [email protected], Four Corners or Western Colorado students.
Service, Field and Experiential Learning
AASW students have the opportunity to examine critical human, animal and environmental connections in numerous established internships and research projects domestically and around the world. Here are some examples:
- Interested in exploring how animals change lives, transform trauma and improve the welfare of children, adults and families? Train a professional therapy dog during graduate school. Build your clinical social work skills to incorporate pets and other animals into the therapeutic environment. Create an animal-assisted intervention protocol to integrate into your professional practice.
- Wondering how human behavior influences habitat protection for animals such as the giant panda? Find out by studying biodiversity protection issues while doing an internship at the Giant Panda Research Base in Chengdu, China.
- Concerned about illegal wildlife trade and wild animal protection and advocacy? Participate in anti-poaching work while on assignment with our partner's at Africa Network for Animal Welfare in Kenya.
- Interested in helping individuals and communities develop their capacity for caring for one another, animals, and the environment? Become a humane educator and explore how high-quality spay/neuter programs and effective re-homing offer opportunities to reduce community violence in eastern Europe.
- Developing ideas every day of how you can make a difference in the lives of people, animals and the environment? Join our MSW program and consider the AASW certificate program- this could be the graduate program you've been searching for.
The Institute for Human-Animal Connection also hosts a variety of Experiential Learning Labs for AASW students to gain experience and exposure to the exciting field of human-animal interactions, including speaker events, conferences, community field trips, and more.
Learn More
If you are interested in more multidisciplinary, educational opportunities in the human-animal interactions field, please visit our professional development pages:
For more information about the AASW certificate, please contact Philip Tedeschi, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Professor at the Graduate School of Social Work, Executive Director of the Institute for Human-Animal Connection, and AASW Certificate Program Director.


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How the loss of Charlie Davies will affect the U.S.
The car crash that killed one and left U.S. forward Charlie Davies with a fractured tibia, femur, and elbow, lacerated bladder, and facial fractures has much larger implications than soccer.
But for a federation coming to grips with expectations of success, the loss of Davies is as large a setback the U.S. has had to deal with. With no player seemingly able to fill in for Davies in a like-for-like manner, coach Bob Bradley will have to get creative in his lineups culminating in South Africa next June.
Bradley's 4-4-2 formation has always been employed with a combination of speed and strength at the forward positions. Rotating through players like Brian Ching, Conor Casey, Kenny Cooper, and many times inserting midfielders Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey often times left much to be desired from the forwards. The bulk of the scoring came from Donovan, Dempsey, and set pieces.
Davies and his strike partner and roommate, Jozy Altidore, changed that for the U.S. Although neither have the pedigree of young strikers from established soccer nations, both Davies and Altidore have the ability to score and complemented each other well for the national team.
In the final World Cup qualifying match against Costa Rica, just one day after Davies' accident, Bradley teamed Altidore with Conor Casey. Casey looked out of his depth for most of the match before being substituted.
The answer for the U.S. is not trying to find a like-for-like swap at forward with Casey, Ching, Cooper, or shoehorning in Donovan or Dempsey. What the U.S. needs to do is reshape its starting XI to accommodate its lack of quality and depth at forward and use its youth and depth of midfielders to their advantage.
Bradley has relied on a midfield consisting of Donovan and Dempsey on the wings with Ricardo Clark and Michael Bradley in the center of the park. When these four are playing as they can, this recipe has proven successful, if not entertaining. With these players, there is no direct link between the midfield and the forwards. Michael Bradley's distribution has improved since his inclusion in the squad, but he still lacks vision to make plays happen as his position requires.
What the U.S. needs is a link between midfield and forward. Altidore has proven he has the size and ability to play in a lone striker role — he just needs someone to get him the ball in dangerous areas and someone to play off him in relative proximity.
Freddy Adu has been an enigma for Bob Bradley. His small size makes him unreliable as a forward, his lack of defensive capabilities make him a liability as a central midfielder and his vision and passing would be wasted on the wing.
If Bob Bradley were to experiment with a 4-4-1-1 with Adu slotted in behind Altidore and in front of Michael Bradley, this could give the U.S. the creativity it's been lacking and help relieve some of the offensive pressure on Altidore, Donovan, and Dempsey. This would allow Adu the freedom to roam in advanced positions and utilize his vision and precise passing in the most effective manner.
Bob Bradley has been hesitant to use Adu, but the thought of a 4-4-1-1 may still be the best bet at effectively replacing the offense the U.S. will miss through the injury to Davies. Benny Feilhaber has the playmaking abilities to relish in this role as well.
Donovan spent years in an attacking midfield role under former coach Bruce Arena. There's no reason why he couldn't succeed there again and with the emergence of Stuart Holden and Dempsey's ability to play effectively on either wing, the midfield would be just as strong.
With the emergence of Holden, it brings up the depth of wingers and success of Donovan and Dempsey as strikers. Meaning that the likely answer is that Bob Bradley won't risk tweaking the way his midfield plays by inserting a Steven Gerrard-esque player.
The likely answer will be moving Dempsey's trickery and nose for goal up front to partner Altidore. It's the safe bet and the safe bet is always Bob Bradley's favored option.
Austin Lindberg is a contributor for Bleacher Report, the open source sports network.


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Video + Digital: So Happy Together
Video and digital go together like (please insert metaphor of choice). When your video presence - offline and online - is tightly coordinated with thoughtfully targeted SEO and SEM programs, robust remarketing, and powerful web conversion, good stuff happens. Deeper insight into your customers' behavior. Improved efficiency. More precise optimization.
It's a beautiful thing.
(Cue fireworks.)
Let's talk about how video can complement your digital program.


text:
LeaderTask Organizer 5.7.5
Set your goals. Work more effectively and have more free time than ever with LeaderTask! Forget the traditional task organizers. They are good if you live to work. They are great if you just want to plan things and be reminded. Have a life! Try the new generation organizer that helps you plan your work so efficiently that you have more free time than ever! Are you a self-employed professional? The whole point of self employment is the ability...


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Anyone else who thinks this band is fuckin shit? Can't get my head round how they've made it big. It's not like it's about having the taste for their type of music or anything, cuz I just think they're useless. The music is shit, the lyrics are shit, the singer is a fuckin wanker with a really terrible voice, I don't rate them as being talanted at their instruments at all either.
Sorry if I seem pissed off, cuz I am a bit like, just get frustrated that an absolute crap band like The Rakes can make it as big as they ave.


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Creative Assembly has responded to accusations that it is holding back existing content in Total War: Rome 2 so that it can charge gamers for its use in paid DLC later on.
This week, players on the Total War forums alleged that the Camel Cataphracts and Mercenary Naked Swords units, included in the paid-for Beasts of War and Caesar in Gaul DLCs respectively, were already in the game - and can be seen in promotional videos predating the DLCs' release.
Brand director Rob Bartholomew has responded to the criticism via a wordy rebuttal at Eurogamer, saying that the camel issue was a "misunderstanding of what's being shown combined with a marketing error which I certainly appreciate doesn't look good, but wasn't our intent to mislead."
Bartholomew claims that the camels in the early videos are not the same as those later released as DLC. "At the time of this video's recording," he says, "these units were not finished in terms of art, gameplay or design and as a marketing team we should have double-checked the likelihood of them making it into the final game."
"That's our basic human error and I apologise for letting that through... We've put checks in place now that should prevent that in the future."
Bartholomew has also addressed modders' concerns that Rome 2 contains on-disc DLC that is simply "switched on" by Creative Assembly when the player pays for it; he says that the content in question is included so that multiplayer games can work between players who do have the DLC and those who do not.
"We've done this with previous titles (as do other game devs)... We think it is the best solution all round to ensure that everyone's game is up to date."
The Beasts of War DLC sells for US$3 on Steam, while Caesar in Gaul costs US$15.
SEGA made Rome 2's official Assembly Kit available to modders last month. In our September 2013 review, we concluded that Rome 2 contained some of the "most satisfying and visually striking tactical battles" we've ever seen, even in spite of some persistent flaws.
Katie Williams is a freelance writer and games journalist. You can follow her on IGN. She also tweets at @desensitisation and hopes that one day, a bird will tweet back.


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Customer Reviews
All reviews are from people who have redeemed deals with this merchant.
The Fine Print
Promotional value expires 180 days after purchase. Amount paid never expires. In-store only. Must use reward value in 1 visit. Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services.
About Exotic Plants
Since 1972, Exotic Plants has encouraged locals to improve their interior air and go green with potted plants. The business stocks a range of low-maintenance plants that thrive indoors, including palms, succulents, cacti, and evergreen chia heads. Since other plants, such as orchids and bonsais, can require a bit more effort, the store holds plant-care workshops and even makes house and office calls to keep plants well maintained. The staff helps indecisive owners select plants during design consultations, and the store offers a selection of plants and blooms for short-term event rental. As Exotic Plants also carries bright pots and natural fertilizer made with Icelandic sea kelp, customers can grab everything they need to help their leafy, spiky, and persnickety friends flourish.


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The glass pan contains beach sand from Aruba and gemstones that the kids actually sifted from a mine! Albeit a mine at a zoo. :) I also provided a gemstone guide, a magnifying glass, and paintbrushes. If you want to pretend you are searching for gemstones found in a mine, you can use a container full of gritty sand and rocks, some Field Tools, a sand sifter, and a handful of gemstones. You could even provide a tray of water to sift the gemstones in.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience.
I placed the gemstones on top of the sand first, so that they could see each of the gemstones. Then I carefully shook the pan so that the gemstones became buried in the sand. (And actually, that tiny green stone in the middle is actually an emerald that Bean's dad found in Hawaii!)
While they dug up their gemstones, I read from our Rocks and Minerals Guide.
After they uncovered and matched each gemstone, I read the description and answered their questions.
Munchkin preferred using the fold-out gemstone guide, while Bean preferred looking through the book to find the different gemstones. She loved comparing them to similar gemstones and asked what made them different. Then they moved on to the next gemstone.
We set this activity up while I was watching my 1 1/2 year old cousin. He mostly sat on my lap and watched, but eventually he wanted to explore too. So I put 2 cups of sand and a handful of gemstones in a gallon sized Ziploc. He was then able to pick it up, shake the sand around, and check out the gemstones. He loved it!
I hope you enjoyed our short series! We will be back soon for a series on Life Cycles!


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2013 Scion FR-S: Coffee Is For Closers
November 23, 2012
The worst. Morning. Coffee maker's broken. Getting into the routine without a few cups is not an option. Starbucks is close. Man, I dislike that coffee. Always burnt, always acidic and over-roasted, the same way they make cheap Fender guitars in fast-drying kilns. Sucks all the tone right out of them.
But, the Mermaid is close. And it's better than the Maxwell House at the donut shop. Thought for sure that the Thermos would ride shotgun on the passenger seat, but it slotted right into the door panel pocket. It doesn't look very secure, and might not be around a corner at 70 mph. But it's wedged in there pretty well.
And on the way out, a guy maybe in his mid-40s stopped to ask about the FR-S. Said he'd been out shopping Mustangs, but all the reviews about the FR-S piqued his curiosity. I offered my quick spiel, then said "and look at this," pointing to the snug jug in the door panel.
The little things sell cars, people.
Dan Frio, Automotive Editor


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No end in sight for Eurozone's troubles
One year after the first bail-out package, the eurozone remains in crisis and managers are changing how they analyse and trade sovereign debt.
In the year since eurozone finance ministers agreed the first sovereign bail-out for Greece, bond managers have correctly predicted that Ireland and Portugal would follow.
On Spain, portfolio managers disagree. But they note that Madrid will have to boost, at least three-fold, how much it has already committed to recapitalise banks.
Even after multiple cuts in official ratings, debt markets remain pessimistic about all four countries, and managers say the drama has forced a re-evaluation of how to analyse names and invest in sovereign markets.
Chris Bullock, manager of Henderson Global Investors' Horizon European Corporate Bond fund, says rates imply Irish and Portuguese debt is like "single-B" rated paper, while Greece trades as CCC.
Tanguy Le Saout, Pioneer Investments' head of investment grade fixed-income, says, as long as governments of beleaguered nations follow "tough policies demanded by the IMF, they will continue to receive support, one way or another. Volatility will be here for a while and should create good opportunities."
He says the debt crisis led many managers to "revisit dogmas [and] going forward we need to be more flexible, not dogmatic".
"We also believe that government bonds are a different asset class now. It is not so much about relative value anymore, but a deep credit analysis is needed for each single country. Some countries are falling sub-investment grade due to a structural change in the market, which means we have to change the way we trade accordingly.
"The market has begun splitting countries into categories. We don't see too much opportunity in Greece as it looks like restructuring is almost inevitable. Ireland has a long and tough path to get out of the danger zone, however, some longer-dated bonds could be interesting."
La Saout says trading Spanish debt brings with it execution risk due to the recapitalisation of the banking sector. "Italy still looks the best risk reward country within the peripherals as the high level of private sector saving is able to finance the government debt."
Ultimately, says Bullock, popular unrest and unwillingness to live austerely could see countries abandon the euro – but not Germany, which has invested too much political capital to see the euro project fail.
Managers widely agree debt restructuring will occur in the periphery, and by mid-April Berlin was reportedly drafting plans to restructure Greece's debt if Athens' economic reforms failed to save the country – leading the spread between ten-year Greek and German debt to hit a record 1,000bps.
Joshua Feinman, global chief economist at DB Advisors, says restructuring is more likely from 2013 onwards. But he adds: "We doubt there will be a break-up of the monetary union because there has been so much political capital expended on creating it."
Bullock warns Brussels has given the trio "a bail-out package, but not a rescue", and painful haircuts for bondholders appear inevitable.
Henning Gebhardt, head of European equities at DWS Investments, says: "It is clear Spain, Greece and Ireland have to clean up part of their economies – that will be a difficult long-term structural issue." He draws similarities with the span of rebuilding in Germany, which lasted over five years from the late 1990s.
A diverse story
"Europe's economy is not uniform. Some parts are very healthy, others experience trouble. It is a totally diverse story in Europe country by country."
Of more immediate concern, says Bullock, is whether European voters will use forthcoming elections to vent growing sentiment against the support packages and their authors.
Additionally, Portugal's next government could face a hostile public if it inherits more punitive measures attached to its bail-out than those that the domestic political opposition has already rejected.


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Hi, I was following a 15:46 pass today in NY of FO-29, all my past experience's have been with the FM birds. I am using SatPC32 and LVB tracker, the program went into "Flip" mode at AOS, setting the elevation at 180 degrees. FO-29 passed overhead and I did not hear it, did I miss something in the setup? Thank you. 73, Pete, WB2OQQ _______________________________________________ Sent via email@example.com. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
AMSAT Home


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Financial assistance for domestic students
You may be eligible for financial help to study.
If you are an Australian or New Zealand citizen or hold a permanent visa, there are a number of financial assistance schemes, scholarships and loan options available to you.
Australian Government schemes for domestic students
- Youth Allowance for students aged under 25.
- Austudy for students aged 25 and over.
- ABSTUDY for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. You should submit your claim for ABSTUDY via Centrelink as soon as possible. You can also register an intent to claim ABSTUDY. This will help you receive your payments from the earliest possible date. You may also be able to claim ABSTUDY over the phone by calling Centrelink 13 23 17.
- Centrelink information for students enrolling in Winter Term.
- FEE-HELP for postgraduate and other fee-paying students.
- HECS-HELP for students enrolled in Commonwealth supported places. A HECS-HELP loan will cover all or part of the student contribution amount.
- OS-HELP for domestic students wishing to undertake part of their studies abroad.


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Teal Marbled Ring Dish
$13.00Ask a question
Store your jewelry with care in this teal marbled ring dish! Alcohol ink is hand marbled onto a melamine ring dish, finished with flecks of gold and a clear coat of glossy varnish. Even better? You can drop it and it's shatter-proof!
The dish measures 4" in diameter, the perfect size for a couple rings, or rings and earrings.
Interested in a different color combo? Message me to order a dish with colors of your choice! Ordered in bulk, these make a great bridesmaid gift!
Carefully packaged and shipped FREE via USPS First Class mail! Upgraded shipping and gift wrap options are available at checkout.
As the product is marbled and resin-coated by hand, some imperfections are to be expected due to the nature of handmade objects.
Looking for more?
*Raw Gemstone Jewelry: http://etsy.me/1NoFGEw
*Druzy Jewelry: http://etsy.me/1OcxcAw
*Rings: http://etsy.me/1SZD2FA
*Necklaces: http://etsy.me/1T7FBV0
*Earrings: http://etsy.me/1TypH3r
*Homegoods: http://etsy.me/1Ocx2co
Shipping from United States
Processing time
1-2 business days
Estimated shipping times
- Canada : 1 - 2 weeks
- North America : 3 - 5 business days
- Europe : 2 - 4 weeks
I'll do my best to meet these shipping estimates, but can't guarantee them. Actual delivery time will depend on the shipping method you choose.
Customs and import taxes
Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.
Payment Options
Returns & Exchanges
I gladly accept returns, exchanges, and cancellations
Just contact me within: 14 days of delivery
Ship items back to me within: 30 days of delivery
Request a cancellation within: 24 hours of purchase
But please contact me if you have any problems with your order.
The following items can't be returned or exchanged
Because of the nature of these items, unless they arrive damaged or defective, I can't accept returns for:
- Custom or personalized orders
- Items on sale
Conditions of return
Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.
Questions about your order?
Please contact me if you have any problems with your order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wholesale availability
Yes, I do wholesale! Please contact me directly for details.
Custom and personalized orders
Many items can be customized or personalized - contact me to discuss your custom order today!
Gift wrapping and packaging
All jewelry items are shipped in a gift box, but are not gift wrapped. Home decor items come carefully packaged and padded - for their protection, they do not come in a gift box.
Gift wrap options are available at check out.
Wedding Parties
I'm happy to do orders for bridal parties and be part of your special day! Processing time is longer for bulk orders, so be sure to reach out in plenty of advance so we can work out something just right for you and your big day.
Is your jewelry conflict-free?
I do my best to source my gems only from suppliers with ethical practices, though I cannot guarantee it 100% of the time.
All silver is recycled.
Can I return/exchange rings?
Because all rings are made to order, it is very important that you're sure of your size when ordering. Because of their custom nature, returned rings are subject to a 10% restocking fee, unless the ring arrived damaged. If you find that you've ordered the wrong size, I can resize rings for a fee, which varies depending on the ring type.


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What Does the Law Say About a Fine Arts Education?
Fine Arts courses are a part of the Enrichment Curriculum, a component of the Required Curriculum. By definition, enrich means "to make richer, to add greater value or significance." It does not mean "extra," "not necessary," "elective," or "optional." These courses are an integral part of the educational process and in many cases are the courses that give meaning and substance to a child's education and to his or her life.
Learning, Arts, and the Brain
In 2004, the Dana Arts and Cognition Consortium brought together cognitive neuroscientists from seven universities across the United States to grapple with the question of why arts training has been associated with higher academic performance.
Arts Education Has Academic Effect
Schoolchildren exposed to drama, music and dance may do a better job at mastering reading, writing and math than those who focus solely on academics, says a report by the Arts Education Partnership
Champions of Change: The Impact of the Arts on Learning
This report identifies how involvement with the arts provides unparalleled opportunities for learning that enables young people to reach for and attain higher levels of achievement. The research provides examples of and evidence why the arts should be more widely recognized for their current and potential contributions to the improvement of U.S. education.
Reinvesting in Arts Education: Winning America's Future Through Creative Schools
The report (by President Obama's Committee of the Arts and Humanities) is the first federal analysis of arts education data in more than a decade and was 18 months in the making.
New Study Reveals Strong Relationship Between Quality Music Education Programs and Higher Standardized Test Scores
Students in high-quality school music education programs score higher on standardized tests compared to students in schools with deficient music education programs, according to a study published in last week's issue of the Journal for Research in Music Education.
The Effects of a Theater Education
Numerous studies have demonstrated a correlation between drama involvement and academic achievement. In addition to having higher standardized test scores than their peers who do not experience the arts, student who participate in drama often experience improved reading comprehension, maintain better attendance records, and stay generally more engaged in school than their non-arts counterparts.
Michelle Obama Stresses the Importance of Art
"The president and I want to ensure that all children have access to great works of art."


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Just Be Yourselves: Stars Who Are Trying So Hard To Be Like Other Celebrities
- By Bossip Staff
1 of 11
The Biggest Celebrity Swagger Jackers
Shouldn't we all just want to be ourselves? That's what our parents told us to do. Stay true to who we are and don't try to be other people. Well, some celebrities aren't quite like that. In fact, these celebrities try their best to mimic others by jocking their style on the way to fame. It's quite sad to see, actually. Just take a look at these celebrities who want nothing more than to be just like other famous people.
Ciara- Remember when she thought she was the new Janet Jackson? And she was the only one who thought that?
Dwight Howard – He says he doesn't want to be Shaq but he took the Superman gimmick and moved to LA.
Continue Slideshow
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Bossip Comment Policy
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.


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The "thinkopad," a 3D mouse pad allowing users to rest their wrists on the scrotum and testes of a crossdressing bunnyboy, has lately been exercising the disgust and opprobrium (and in some cases, naturally, the desire) of Japanese online, being quite out there even by the standards of Akihabara and 3D mouse pads.
The pad, available in certain select Akiba stores:
The pad's bulging testicles are said to be quite soft, and a much better fit than the now staid penis pad, although probably not as effectively shaped as the other major anatomical features favoured for such products.
Incidentally, the "thinkopad" name is pronounced "chinkopad" in Japanese, which just happens to sound like "penis pad."
This is all too much, even for 2ch:
"This is crazy!"
"Who thinks of these things…"
"Totally messed up."
"Right, ¥4200 is way too expensive for this."
"The name is pretty clever though…"
"I like the way they make you ask for it by name at the register!"
"This is an otoko no ko, right?"
"An ahegao version would be choice."
"Tourists: '…'."
"If you don't like it, don't buy it! I'd like one."
"Japan is done for."
"Just where is Japan headed?"


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SOURCE: Kandi Technologies, Corp.
July 23, 2012 09:37 ET
JINHUA, CHINA--(Marketwire - Jul 23, 2012) - Kandi Technology Corp. (the 'Company' or 'Kandi') (NASDAQ: KNDI), a leading Chinese manufacturer and developer of pure electric vehicles (EVs) and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), today announced that the Company's wholly owned subsidiary, Zhejiang Kandi Vehicles Co., Ltd. ("Kandi Vehicles"), has signed a framework agreement with the government of Weifang Binhai Economic Development Zone ("Weifang Development Zone") in Wei Fang City of Shandong Province, under which Kandi Vehicles intends to invest and establish a project company in the development zone that will have a capacity annually to produce key components and parts for 100,000 EVs (the "Project").
Shandong is the first province in China that commercialized EV and has the biggest EV market in China. Weifang Development Zone (http://www.wfbinhai.gov.cn) is a national level economic and technology development zone and a key automotive industry base approved by the National Development and Reform Commission. It is also the National Priority Area in Shandong Peninsula Blue Economic Zone and the Yellow River Delta Efficient Eco-economic Zone.
In order to gain market position for Kandi EVs in Shandong province and receive the support from the local government, upon the invitation of Weifang Development Zone, Kandi Vehicles has discussed and executed the framework agreement with Weifang Development Zone on July 13, 2012 after extensive discussion and negotiation between the parties. The main provisions of the framework agreement are as follows:
1. The Project is invested by Kandi Vehicles. The annual revenue of the Project is expected to be approximately RMB3 billion when it reaches its full capacity.
2. Weifang Development Zone will nominate the Project as one of the key projects to be supported in Shandong Province and will try to receive support for this Project under the provincial government's preferential policies.
3. Weifang Development Zone agrees to provide Kandi Vehicles 500 mu (approximately 333,300 square meters) construction land for project use at a favorable price.
4. Upon the completion of the Project, Weifang Development Zone will work actively to gain national, provincial and municipal supportive policies for the EV industry, and fully promote the use and acceptance of Kandi EVs in Shandong province. In principle, the government will have a special supportive policy for no less than 20,000 EVs every year.
5. The Project will receive local government tax incentive and preferential treatment.
6. The entire project is expected to be completed within 2 years as soon as Kandi Vehicles obtains the land-use right.
Mr. Xiaoming Hu, Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer of Kandi, commented, "Shandong provincial government's strong support is essential for Kandi to enter into the EV market in Shandong province. The practice is that local governments have various supporting policies for local companies, therefore the cooperation with Weifang Development Zone to establish a local project company will provide a firm foundation for Kandi to become the leader in the EV market in China. In the meantime, Kandi has full confidence that it will achieve success in the EV market in Shandong."
About Kandi Technologies, Corp.
Kandi Technologies, Corp. (KNDI) is a manufacturer and exporter of a variety of vehicles in China, making it a world leader in the production of popular off-road vehicles (ORVs). It also ranks among the leading manufacturers in China of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), specialized utility vehicles (UTVs), and a recently introduced second-generation high mileage, two-seat three-wheeled motorcycle. Another major company focus has been on the manufacture and sale of the COCO electric vehicle (EV), a highly economical, beautifully designed, all-electric super mini-car for neighborhood driving and commuting. The convertible and hardtop models of the COCO EV are available in the United States and other countries, while the Chinese government has approved the sale of Kandi EVs in China since 2010. More information can be viewed at its corporate website is http://www.chinakandi.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains certain statements that may include "forward-looking statements." All statements other than statements of historical fact included herein are "forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects" or similar expressions, involving known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including the risk factors discussed in the Company's periodic reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on the SEC's website (http://www.sec.gov). All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these risk factors. Other than as required under the securities laws, the Company does not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements.
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Phone: 86-579-82239856
Email: email@example.com
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iAbrasive.com is a professional business to business trade platform for abrasives and abrasive products only, which takes the advantages by its professional and vertical operations.
Zhengzhou, China (PRWEB) January 07, 2014
A new online attributes selection guide for "Diamond Core Drills" is available from iAbrasive.com. This convenient web application makes it quick and easy to determine which abrasive or abrasive products are suggested as the most suitable goods in applications involving specific cutting, grinding and polishing.
As is known to most insiders, a core drill is a drill specifically designed to remove a cylinder of material, much like a hole saw. The material left inside the drill bit is referred to as the core. Core drills are used for many applications, either where the core needs to be preserved (the drilling apparatus used in obtaining a core sample is often referred to as a corer), or where drilling can be done more rapidly since much less material needs to be removed than with a standard bit. This is the reason that diamond-tipped core drills are commonly used in construction to create holes for pipes, manholes, and other large-diameter penetrations in concrete or stone.
While, iAbrasive sets five choices as for the attributes of diamond core drills, including the diameter, weld type, work condition, product color and applications. Users just need to choose one or more specifications upon their own requirements, then the system will automatically filter out the irrelated products, thus to save online purchasing time and improve working efficiency. For example, if buyers want to purchase sintered diamond core drills, then they can select directly from the weld type, very convenient!
About iAbrasive.com
iAbrasive.com is a professional business to business trade platform for abrasives and abrasive products only. It takes the advantages over some comprehensive commercial platforms by its professional and vertical operations. The website concentrates on building up an information bridge to link domestic sellers and overseas buyers together. Here, they can exchange both information and goods freely.
Diamond core drills are available at: http://www.iabrasive.com/products/diamond-core-drills.
For more news about iAbrasive.com, link here: http://www.iabrasive.com, http://www.iabrasive.com/blog/.


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TOKYO (AP) — The U.N.'s top humanitarian official called Thursday for major changes in the delivery of relief, as funding falls short because of a growing number of conflicts and disasters.
"Needs are growing so fast, the funding cannot keep pace," said Valerie Amos, the undersecretary general for humanitarian affairs.
With crises in Iraq, Syria and elsewhere, U.N. funding appeals have risen to a record $16.9 billion in 2014 to help more than 50 million people, up from $6 billion in 2004.
Amos, who is in Tokyo for a U.N.-organized meeting on improving relief in Asia, advocated a "step change" in the way humanitarian aid is delivered. One lesson from last year's Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines, she said, is the need to involve local governments and organizations more and make the international community a last resort.
In an interview in Tokyo, she offered several ideas for improving aid delivery and addressed the crisis in Gaza:
"You have a lot of countries that have been major donors to the humanitarian effort that have themselves been going through difficult economic times. So how do we deal with that? We need to have a step change in a number of areas. We need to review how we do humanitarian response, who does it, who's involved, how we equip communities ... to come in, step in, support each other, so that the global international response becomes almost the last resort. We need to invest a lot more in prevention, in managing risk. A tiny proportion of the money spent on humanitarian aid and on development goes into those disaster preparedness measures. It makes a huge difference in terms of lives saved but also in terms of the money spent on responding to crises later on.... We also need to look at innovation. How can we do our business differently? What are the practices that are emerging in other sectors that we can borrow or we can use to make humanitarian response more effective."
"I was in Tacloban (in the Philippines) and was astounded by the total, total devastation that existed. We've learnt a lot of things. We've learnt that those first few hours and days, we really need to get the logistics right. We were stuck for the first few hours, because although we had people on the ground, they just could not get through. So those first few hours and days are absolutely critical. We've learnt that we have to do more to support the people on the ground. Coming in as the international community must be the last resort, because it's the first responders, the people in the community, the local authorities, the local government who are there who know the terrain. The national local Red Cross Society, for example, were the people who were able to get to some of the most far-flung places more quickly. We know that when necessary we need to call in military assets which were so helpful with the Typhoon Haiyan response."
"Some kind of ceasefire and stop to the violence is absolutely vital.... People are running out of food, water is also a serious concern.... The majority of those killed in Gaza are women, children, men who have nothing to do with the fighting. That is the major concern that we have, that children, so many children have been killed as a result of the violence in the last few days. It's a terrible, terrible situation."