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*Okay, this asterisk doesn't mean anything, but it is indicative of something that is becoming an epidemic – add-ons and exclusions.
I understand people buy based on the bottom line so companies price accordingly, but the hidden charges and exclusions are getting out of hand and as I surmise, businesses will be nickel and diming themselves out of business.
We all know about airlines charging for every checked piece of luggage. Sure they may make a few extra bucks, but how many people are they annoying because they have to check a bag at the gate or because there isn't enough room in the overhead compartments. Do they have a sense of how many people are making the choice to drive or video conference for their next meeting?
But the airlines aren't the only ones, mechanics have disposal fees, big box retailers have appliance removal fees and hotels have spa fees – even if you never use the spa.
I recently read about a New York hotel that costs $1,499 a night but still charges for wireless internet access.
In a Sunday circular, Toys R Us told us buy any Lego, get the other for 50% off*. The asterisk went on to tell us that four different Lego series were not included.
Department stores aren't much better and should focus on having sales for specific lines versus store-wide sales that exclude half the merchandise.
With a more frugal consumer, companies are quick to focus on the advertised price to make sure they "win" someone's business, when in actuality they run the risk of losing a long-term customer because they have charged for every little thing.
Look at your business, are you finding ways to run off your customers with add-on services?
So how do you compete? Be open with your customers. Show them how you ultimately provide a lower cost of ownership.
If you aren't sure what your competition is charging, mystery shop your competition to see what they add on. If possible build these items into your price (ideally still providing a cost savings for potential customers).
You'll spend less time explaining everything to you customers and more time building relationships.
Your customer service costs will go down because they'll be focused on making appointments versus dealing with unhappy customers.
Finally, customers will reward you with loyalty because there won't be any surprises when they do business with you.
Consumers are focused on their budget and bottom line, but if they think they are on budget and then go over due to hidden fees, you'll never get that customer back, and chances are they'll let a few of their friends know about it too.
Don't let your need to quickly bolster your bottom line do damage to your long-term growth.
IIR's Social Media & Community 2.0 Strategies conference will address "Cashing in on the Conversation". To learn more visit http://bit.ly/d7mUWG and use code XM2205SMB to save 15%.


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Hasn't April been the most up and down month? Glorious sunshine, hailstones, a barmy 20 degrees and then the threat of snow a few days later. Crazy! During the Easter holidays, we spent mornings by the sea and afternoons ambling around beautiful gardens. We picnicked in the sun, and made pizza wrapped up in several layers to keep us warm. Looking at our calendar, there doesn't appear to be much free time for exploring or adventures in May but I'm sure we'll squeeze something in.
For those of you who are new to my blog or the hashtag, #UKexplore is an Instagram community for sharing your favourite places in the UK and your outdoor adventures. It could be the most marvellous of meadows, the perfect place for a picnic, the loveliest lake for skimming stones, or rambling routes for running along. Wherever and whenever you're out exploring, simply take a snap and upload it to Instagram so we can all share in your adventures and explore the UK with you.
Every month, both Karen (from Mini Travellers and Fuelled by Latte) will feature our favourite images on our blogs and we'll also select one winner each to receive a National Trust Family Day Pass. Nice, right? #UKexplore will run from the 1st to the last day of the month and anyone can join in and be in with a chance to win.
It's never easy to pick a mere handful of favourites from the hundreds that are shared each month, but here are the images that caught my eye in April and had me longing to head out and explore.
And my winner in April was this photo from @tinyexpats of St. Michael's Mount in Cornwall. Congratulations, Yuliya! You win a National Trust Family Day Pass.
You might remember that we teamed up with the National Trust's official outdoor retail partner Cotswold Outdoor in April and therefore have a third overall winner (chosen by the team at the National Trust). So, a National Trust Family Day Pass and a huge bundle containing all the gear for the perfect family camping trip worth over £1250 in total will soon be on its way to @cathybussey1. Huge congratulations, Cathy! We all agreed that your photo was stunning.
Clouds on the hills ☁Today Noel took the children and their grandparents out on a boat and I walked the dog, re-read my novel for the first time without making any edits and did some sketching in my nature journal. I'm in a funny kind of limbo, I want to let go of the book for a while and pick up the parts of me I put on hold but at the same time I want to hold on to the magic. Tomorrow Noel and I are going mountain biking. That will help 😂💫🚲
We're really looking forward to seeing all your photographs in May and huge thanks to the National Trust and Cotswold Outdoor for providing April's prize.
We're really lucky to have another guest sponsor of #UKexplore in May. Outdoor clothing specialist, Trespass, has kindly offered to send each winner a waterproof jacket of their choice up to the value of £60 - it excludes the DLX range and the winner must have a UK address.
Now, why not head over to Mini Travellers to see who Karen has chosen as her April winner.
Terms & Conditions
1. Please only submit (on Instagram) your own photos.
2. Add the #UKexplore hashtag.
3. The challenge runs from 00.00 on the first of the month to 23.59 on the last day of the month.
4. Only photographs uploaded during those times are eligible for that month's competition.
5. Winners will be announced on Mini Travellers and The Ordinary Lovely on the second day of the following month and will be notified on Instagram.
6. Winners have 28 days to provide their address in order to receive their National Trust Family Admission Day Pass (exclusions apply and can be made available upon request). The pass can be used by up to 1 adult and 3 children, or up to 2 adults and 2 children for one day only. There is no cash alternative.
7. Including the #UKexplore hashtag indicates approval for the images to be posted on Mini Travellers and The Ordinary Lovely, and the corresponding social media channels.
8. The judges' decision is final.

subset: commoncrawl


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This past week's unexpected death of Prince at age 57 is a sad reminder that life is short. Age has been on my mind anyway as I approach another milestone birthday this year – 60! There was a time where that number sounded so old. And while my body may be showing some 'laugh lines' and grey hairs, I still feel vibrant and young at heart. Clay and the pursuit of creativity help with that.
It's been a productive week in the studio and around the house. I'm preparing for several upcoming events and have been working on a couple of custom orders. It's great to have goals to attain and ultimately accomplish.
I'll be teaching a fun class through one of my favorite Frederick shops, The Muse, on the evening of May 15. I'll provide all the materials to create a colorful wind chime. The class is filling up, so if you're interested, click here to register!
I've created limited edition items for an "Indie Pop Up Shop" at The Knot House in Frederick, Md. May 6 - 8. It's a weekend-long fiber-lovers dream come true featuring hand-dyed yarns in a rainbow of colors and every stitching accessory you can imagine. I've created special drinking tumblers, small catch-all bowls and some fun yarn-lingo paper clips for the occasion. Once they are sold out, they will be gone!
The Potomac United Methodist Strawberry Festival is a well-attended annual event in Maryland. On May 21 between 10 and 4, I'll be there. Of course I've created a bunch of Berry Bowl sets for the occasion! I'll bring along some of my other useful serving dishes and lots of my garden décor too.
I'm creating a custom totem for a special garden in the New Mexico. It's filled with symbolic shapes and personalized with the family's names. It's truly invigorating to develop and collaborate on an idea and make it come to life in clay. Let me know if you have an idea for a totem! I'd love to work with you.
I also fiddled with some home improvements that have 'been on my list' this week including setting up this birdhouse my friend Will made for me. As in the studio, success with these projects relies on having the right tools and knowing when to ask for help. When these projects are complete, I get that same adrenaline satisfaction that happens in the studio.
Prince's often cited quote about life and his on-going legacy is strong. He set an example for living a life that stayed true to his musical passion. His songs remain with us as a lasting reminder of his talent, message and influence. Life is short, so be sure to make decisions that contribute to your daily passions.


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Ryan Adams, whose current album covers Taylor Swift's entire "1989" record, spoke with The Guardian and compared the "Wildest Dreams" singer to William Shakespeare. Ryan revealed that beginning his work on the tracks for his "1989" project was like "being in Ghostbusters or something, and then all of a sudden I have to go do Shakespeare."
Some people may think Ryan comparing Taylor to perhaps the greatest writer of all time is a bit of a stretch, but when it comes to Taylor's talents, Ryan is fully drinking the Kool-Aid. "Well, look, those songs are popular for a reason," he defends. "She's a popular artist for a reason."
"The first time I heard [Taylor's 2008 song, "White Horse"] I got chills head to toe," Ryan continues. "I remember feeling shocked by her voice, shocked at how clean that song was. I like stuff that sort of penetrates through my regular consciousness and hits me where I'm not looking. That's usually stuff that's a little darker. You know, that song is really about disillusionment on such a grand scale. I just thought about how this is hitting me like a tidal wave, it's so romantic and so beautiful, and yet so sad and so disillusioned — it's all the stuff I love about the Smiths."
What do you think about Ryan's comparison of Taylor with Shakespeare? Or even his comparison Taylor and the Smiths?


text: 上海乌托邦 The development model of "killing the hens to get the 2019年5月6日 weimiaow eggs" and "draining the lake to get the fish" has reached a dead end, Xi said. "We should protect the ecological environment as we pro tect our own eyes, and treat the environment as we treat our own lives," he said. The president, who has advocated building a community with a shared future for mankind, also brings an international perspective to environmental protection. "In the face of environmental challenges, all countries are in a community with inter linked destinies, and no country is immune," Xi said at the opening ceremony. The exhibition attracted more than 110 countries and internati onal organizations, as well as more than 120 unofficial exhibitors. About 10 heads of state and prime ministers attended the opening ceremony. iglhlg.cn


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Are you among that particular segment of the business world that owns a WordPress site but faces multiple issues including poor page-load time and hacking? Or you belong to that set of agencies in the hosting industry that face different issues in providing seamless hosting service to their large pool of clients? Are you looking for some expert that can efficiently manage your WordPress site while resolving every problem of yours? Well, your quest comes to an end here. Cloudways, a renowned name in the Managed Hosting Industry, brings an entire Managed WordPress Cloud hosting solution for the Agencies, businesses and developers.
A large percentage of WordPress sites perform inadequately mainly due to the hosting issues. With optimized and pre-configured WordPress platform, Cloudways offers fully managed WordPress Cloud hosting. Not only this, unlike other managed hosting service providers, Cloudways offers an absolutely Free Migration of your entire data and setup for a limited time period. Isn't that great?
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So, forget about your WordPress site security and its hectic management as Cloudways is there to let you live a hassle-free life. Leave all your WordPress site's management responsibilities with Cloudways and enjoy an astounding user experience.


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The Fourth of July-Independence Day of USA
The Fourth of July Independence Day of USA
Probably, the most awaited event, in the lives of American people is the Independence Day celebration. Also , popularly referred to as 'the Fourth of July", this is the day that holds special regard in the heart of many Americans, as on this day , in the year 1776, independence was declared publicly for the first time. It is celebrated in the United States of America with pomp and gaiety.
According to history records, the 4th of July is celebrated to mark the anniversary of the first public announcement and reading of the Declaration of independence from Great Britain in the year 1776. Great Britain's rule over New England came to an end when people revolted against the British in the year 1775, following which, the government voted against their rule on July 2nd, 1776. It was only after two days, on 4th of July that independence was declared. The treaty was signed by the authorities like Thomas Jefferson and John Adams on 2nd August, 1776. Though, declared a national holiday for citizens, there were no festivities to mark that day. It was, however, on the insistence of John Adams that the Independence Day came to be associated with opulence and grand celebrations. It was only in the year 1791 that people began to address this day as Independence Day.
About The Day:
Tourists traveling to the USA during the 4th of July should prepare themselves for a gala time as the whole nation joins in the festive fervor. Mostly, all houses get decorated with American flags. The roads and junctions come alive with parades that add to the enjoyment. With people carrying their nation's flag and parades to lift your mood, the 4th of July offers great entertainment. The day is a national holiday; hence, all offices remain closed. People gather in various public places like Statue Of Liberty to ring in the fireworks. This day is celebrated with family and friends, all bringing in baskets of food and drinks to be shared and enjoyed. There are many local communities that organize their own entertainment shows, barbecues and fireworks. Competitions like hotdog and watermelon eating are held at every nook and corner. Tourists can also savor sporting events like tug of war, swimming, baseball and various other games. Many television channels broadcast the epic history of America. Many political events also mark this day with many leaders addressing the general public about the importance of brotherhood and peace. On this day, tourists can see huge gatherings of people who come together to pay their respects to the great men who brought about the freedom. With most school and colleges closed, 4th of July becomes a celebration wherein all the citizens join in the festivities.
Travel Tips:
The Independence Day on 4th of July, is a closed holiday with most offices closed. Tourists visiting any state in the USA, would have to make advance reservations of hotels and guest houses, since, most of the Americans plan their weekend getaways during this time. The heavy traffic of people may make it difficult to get proper and desired accommodation, unless booked in advance. Travelers should also plan their road journeys in such a way that they do not get delayed in massive traffic congestion.
Final thoughts:
The Independence Day is worth a watch, as tourists can really get to know the American culture, history and the ethnicities that comprise and bind this nation. We salute the great men who fought for the freedom of this magnificent country and contributed a lot to its present state – powerful and respected. Happy Independence Day to all!
Category: 2012 US Federal Holidays, Calendar, Holidays 2012, Public holidays, USA Holidays


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To disable ads when browsing websites in Google Chrome, download and install an ad-blocking extension, such as Adblock Plus, from the Chrome Web Store. Once the extension is activated, modify the ad-blocking parameters via the Adblock Plus Options window in the extension settings section of Google Chrome.
- Download and install Adblock Plus
Use Google Chrome to navigate to the Chrome Web Store home page. In the search field, type in "adblock plus", and press Enter. In the Extensions section, click on the Adblock Plus option, click on the Free button, and select the Add option once the confirmation prompt pops up. Once the download is complete, the installation process should be done automatically. Restart Google Chrome once the process is complete.
- Improve and update the filter list
Start Google Chrome, and click on the Menu button in the top-right corner represented by three horizontal bars. Select the Settings option from the drop-down menu, and click on Extensions. Click on the Options link below the Adblock Plus extension, and click on the Add Filter Subscriptions button in the Filter Lists tab. Select the ones you wish to use, and click on the Add button. Click on the Update Now button once you're ready. Restart Google Chrome, if necessary.
- Disable the ads manually
Adblock Plus should automatically prevent the ads from displaying; however, you can manually add specific ads to the filter in case not everything gets blocked. Click on the ABP button next to the address bar, and select the Block Element option. Hover over the ad you wish to block, and click on Add once the prompt pops up.


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New Benzene Detector Tubes now Available
Two new low range detector tubes for monitoring airborne levels of benzene vapor are available from Sensidyne. Benzene tube No. 118SD has a measuring range of 0.1 to 75 ppm, and can monitor in the range of the OSHA PEL in just minutes. Tube 118SE has a range of 0.2 to 15ppm and is selective to benzene in the presence of other aromatic hydrocarbons. The system includes a precision piston pump for optimum repeatability and is expandable with direct reading detector tubes available for about 300 additional substances.


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Study: Miami's economic recovery ranks No. 18 in U.S.
The longest downturn since the Great Depression officially ended five years ago, and personal finance company WalletHub crunched the numbers of the 150 largest U.S. cities to identify 2014's most recession-recovered cities. Miami ranked No. 18 on the list of 150, scoring in the top 10 for population growth (9th), its decrease in violent crime (3rd) and increase in college-educated workers (5th).
To evaluate the progress of local cities in propelling their economic growth, WalletHub used 18 key metrics — from the number of new businesses to unemployment rates and home price appreciation — to examine how each city has performed in the last few years.
According to the study, among other metrics, Miami came in 45th for median home price appreciation; 49th for the decrease in the ratio of part-time to full-time jobs; 20th for average credit score increase; 42nd for its decrease in its public assistance rate; 23rd for its decrease in consumer debt; and 47th for new business growth.
Nattonally, the top five most-recovered cities were: Laredo, Texas, Irving, Texas, Fayetteville, NC, Denver, CO., and Dallas, Texas. The bottom five: San Bernandino, CA, Stockton, CA, Coise City, Idaho, Newark, NJ and Modesto, CA.
Nancy Dahlberg


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Ahmedabad: The Ahmedabad Crime Branch has been handed over the reins of investigations into the brutal murder of Jamnagar-based lawyer Kirit Joshi. Joshi was killed in his office by unknown men. According to the orders of DGP Shivanand Jha, the investigation of the case has been now transferred to Ahmedabad Crime Branch from Jamnagar Police.
The cold-blooded killing of Joshi has riled up the lawyers across the state. They've been skipping work from metropolitan court to the high court and have been protesting against the shoddy investigation into the murder. The cops have been unable to catch the killers even after 10 days of the murder. According to the primary investigation of the Jamnagar Police, the reason behind Joshi murder could be his involvement in a land-deal case. The police have been unable to find out if this is a supari-killing (contract-killing) and who is behind it. The rising anger amongst lawyers across the state prompted the state police chief to take this decision of transferring the investigation to Ahmedabad Crime Branch from the local police.
It's a rare scenario where the crime branch of a different district or a city is brought in to investigate cases where the local police fail. The previous instance where the Ahmedabad Crime Branch's help was sought was the horrific rape and murder of an 11-year old child and her mother's murder in Surat.


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It is currently Aug 24, 2019 9:36 am
radical mental health in a crazy world
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text: I wonder why I am not allowed to be single. When men do it, they are swinging bachelors (insert 60's go-go music). When white women do it, they are living the urban lifestyle (insert Sex and the City theme song). When I, a black woman, do it I am suffering from a national epidemic - Single Black Woman Syndrome. SBSW! Being in my early 30's, SBWS is supposed to be the most pressing concern in my consciousness. Curiously, when I wake in the morning, my first thoughts are never "Where are you Prince Charming?". I lean more towards, "How am I going to use today to build the life that I want for myself?". Don't get me wrong, I love the idea of companionship. Cuddling is fun. I just don't feel this desperation for it that all the magazines and news programs are telling me I should feel. I doubt I am the only one. So why the hype? Is it an attempt to create another "otherness"to put on black women? Is it another attempt to make us feel inferior, unloved, and non desirable? I'll leave you to draw your own conclusions. Either way, for all the other black women who refuse to suffer from SBWS - stand strong and proud of your choices! For those of you starting to feel a few of those suffocating symptoms - I say cast your net wide. Stop limiting your choices - give your number to that cute Asian guy hitting on you on the R train. Enjoy your life ladies (insert the Pharrell remix of 60's go-go music)!


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Dr. Craig Reading is a dentist devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile using conservative, state-of-the-art procedures that will result in beautiful, healthy, long lasting smiles! He and his dental team have received either the 'Best Dentist of Yuba-SUtter' or 'Favorite Dentist of Yuba-Sutter' every year since 2004.
High Standards
Dr. Reading's standard is to provide the quality dental services patients deserve. We provide residents of the Yuba-Sutter area with exceptional treatment. We specilize in the use of restorative and cosmetic dentistry to achieve your optimal dental health and appearance. Should a dental emergency occur, we make every effort to see and care for you as soon as possible.
Education & Prevention
As a practice, we truly believe that preventative care and education are the keys to optimal dental health. We strive to provide our patients with "dental health care" vs. "disease care". That's why we focus on thorough exams – checking the overall health of your teeth and gums, performing oral cancer exams, and taking x-rays when necessary. We also know that routine cleanings, flossing, sealants, and fluoride are all helpful in preventing dental disease. Not only are we focused on the beauty of your smile, we're also concerned about your health. A review of your medical history helps us stay informed of your overall well being, any new medications, and any illnesses that may impact your dental health.
Uncompromising Safety
Infection control in our office is also very important to us. To protect our patients and ourselves, we strictly maintain sterilization and cross contamination processes using standards recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
Training & Expertise
Our team is always excited about our continuing education opportunities. We want you to be confident knowing that we are a team of highly trained and skilled clinicians. We pride ourselves in providing the care you need to keep your smile healthy. To give you the best possible service and results, we are committed to continual education and learning. We attend dental lectures, meetings, and dental conventions to stay informed of new techniques, the latest products, and the newest equipment that a modern dental office can utilize to provide state-of-the-art dental care. Also, being members of various professional dental associations helps us to stay abreast of the changes and recommendations for our profession.
A Positive Experience
Building a foundation of trust by treating our patients as special individuals is vital to our success. We understand how uneasy some patients may feel about their dental visits, and how we can make a difference in providing a relaxing and positive experience. Our entire team is dedicated to providing you with excellent, personalized care and service to make your visits as comfortable and pleasant as possible.
We thank you for allowing us to take care of your dental needs and look forward to serving you.
Make an appointment today…..we'll give you a reason to smile! (530) 671-1770


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24 Pages – Color Cover – FULL COLOR interior!
Class Comics continues its prestigious Portfolio series with the Art of Mike. This beautiful volume offers up some of this brilliant artist's most exquisite pieces of male erotic art.
Mike's gorgeous creations blend humor and sex appeal into one very potent package. His men are gorgeous, sometimes realistic, sometimes more cartoonish in flavor — but always hung, and always hot to trot!
This beautiful book features some of Mike's most colorful illustrations from Freshmen and Men magazines, but also boasts a number of brand new, never before printed images. Plus you'll love his take on Class Comics favorites, such as Camili-Cat, Naked Justice and Ghostboy, to name just a few.
True collectors of male erotica will not dare miss this impressive collection of one of today's most gifted artist.


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I Love Pumpkins
Yes… I Love Pumpkins! I hope you love pumpkins too.
Does your heart light up when you see a pumpkin? Does your pulse quicken when you see pumpkin foods? Do you love pumpkins?
My goal in creating this website was to share my love of pumpkins with you, and to provide like-minded individuals with a format – International Pumpkin Day© – for sharing the joy of pumpkins.
I created the first International Pumpkin Day four years ago. It took place on September 25, 2004 when a group of pumpkin lovers from around the world – Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Milan – celebrated the first-ever Pumpkin Day by eating only pumpkin foods. The day was not without its challenges, especially for the Milan celebrants, but we supported each other throughout the day by emailing updates and encouragement. The Los Angeles pumpkin clan ended International Pumpkin Day by enjoying pumpkin martinis at a bar called Lola.
Everyone loved International Pumpkin Day, and we've been celebrating it ever since. Now we're throwing the doors open to the entire world to join us!
Make love grow like a pumpkin.
Care for the land you walk on.
Celebrate International Pumpkin Day.
Light up the world with your smile.
Cucurbita Tecum©!
As the site develops over time, I plan to add new functionality and new tools to help you enjoy pumpkins, and find pumpkin-related products and foods. I'll also be featuring guest writers. If you would like to write a review or an article, please contact me.
Also feel free to send me your feedback about my beta website! I look forward to hearing from you.
2 Responses to "I Love Pumpkins"
I am so glad that there is now a site that recognizes the worldwide human love for pumpkins. I had always thought that I was alone in my passion. My wife Juanita and I often sit on our porch and gaze at the growing splendor of our pumpkin patch. We have tried often to have children but Jesus has seen it fit to not bless us. Instead he has given us a bountiful harvest of pumpkins. Now that Juanita is in a wheelchair and unable to fulfill her marital duties, I on occasion will look at our pumpkins with carnal lust. I know that this is a sin that Jesus frowns upon, but it was His will to tempt me with such tender orange victuals. Surely He knows the sweet embrace of a squash could overwhelm even the stoutest men. With great shame I must admit that I revel in my poor, dear Juanita's inability to mount the staircase to my study. I could not live if she ever gaze upon me performing unnatural acts upon one of our sweet pumpkins. Even now I know she suspects me. Always hovering at the base of the staircase saying Carlos! Why have you taken a pumpkin to your study? To which I cannot reply truthfully. Even during the act of gourd coitus Juanita hounds me from below. Oh Carlos, how could you. Carlos, but it is our pumpkin. When she is finally asleep I am able to dispose of the perforated hull in shame. I love pumpkins. I love them with all my heart and every fiber of my being. Who can fault a man for acting on that love? But then I see the befouled and defiled remains of my acts before me. The realization sets in that my lustful sin has destroyed one of G-d's beautiful and perfect creations. An innocent pumpkin sacrificed at the alter of my sin. It is at these times, when I am sobbing myself to sleep, that Jesus speaks to me and tells me that all is forgiven and that there is an endless field of sweet delicate pumpkins in heaven and that while rare, intimate knowledge of a pumpkin is not looked down upon and even celebrated. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for building this wonderful site. I am printing a copy of you web log as I type this. My dear Juanita does not know of the Inter-net since it is only available within my study. I have printed her selected articles and editorials to slowly acclimate her to the information superhighway. I believe that this web site will help her understand my condition and accept that it is Jesus' way. G-d bless you Ilovepumpkins.com. You have changed my life.
I've seen mountains. I've seen sunsets. I've seen babies being born. But, none of those were as beautiful as this blog!
I thought I was a pumpkin fan with a deep and broad passion for the orange wonders. That was, until I read this blog! This blog taught this old dog a new fact or two about the autumnal delight known as pumpkins.
Not only is the content interesting - and from what I can tell, extremely unique - but the author crafts the blog as if you were sitting at the park and enjoying a pumpkin pie with a side of pumpkin ale while reminiscing with an old friend.
Total comps to the author!


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The Politics of Order in Informal Markets: Evidence from Lagos
Property rights are important for economic exchange, but in much of the world they are not publicly provided. Private market organizations can fill this gap by providing an institutional structure to enforce agreements, but with this power comes the ability to extort from the group's members. Under what circumstances will private organizations provide a stable environment for economic activity? Using survey data collected from 1,878 randomly sampled traders across 269 markets, 68 market leaders, and 55 government revenue collectors in Lagos, I find that strong markets maintain institutions to support trade not in the absence of government, but rather as a response to active interference. I argue that organizations develop pro-trade institutions when threatened by politicians they perceive as predatory, and when the organization can respond with threats of its own. Under this balance of power, the organization will not extort because it needs trader support to keep threats credible.
Shelby Grossman is a Postdoctoral Fellow at Stanford University's Center on Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law. Her primary research interests are in comparative politics and political economy. Her book manuscript explores the politics of property rights in informal markets in Nigeria. Other research projects include a study on the political economy of diversified business groups, a project on casual inter-group interactions in the informal economy, and a paper on the politics of non-compliance with polio vaccination in northern Nigeria. Shelby received her Ph.D. from the Department of Government at Harvard University in 2016.


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My friend Linda recently told me that she has some concerns about how her son is treating their cat. She said that her son locks the cat in cabinets, and plays too roughly with it. I told her that most cats will tolerate some roughhousing, and then when enough is enough will fight back. I suggested that she continue to put a stop to any mean behavior she sees, and keep telling her son that he must always be kind to animals. I also told her to watch and see how the relationship changes when the cat decides she's had enough, and her son comes crying with a bite or a scratch. At that point things can go two ways, her son learns to treat the cat with kindness and respect, or he punishes the cat further, and if the latter happens, she should be very concerned.
It made me wonder though, when should a parent be concerned that their child has crossed the line between being rough with a pet, and being intentionally cruel. If your dog or cat is ok with roughhousing, or being dressed up like a doll, you don't need to worry. You should always discuss how your child may be making your pet feel so that he learns compassion, and learns when to back off and give your pet a break. Your pet is also very capable of putting a stop to harassment, though in the case of a dog, this could be dangerous. Most dogs are incredibly tolerant of their human companion's behavior, but if they feel frightened, their reaction can turn violent.
It is important that you put a stop to cruel behavior immediately. Children don't usually grow out of this kind of behavior, and the natural progression is that they move on to human victims. Always set a good example in how you interact with pets to teach children to be compassionate and responsible pet guardians.
Watch For Signs
Signs that your child needs intervention to correct cruel behavior before it escalates:
If your child won't release a pet that is struggling to escape or continues to chase it when it is obviously running away in fear.
If your child becomes more and more secretive about his cruel behavior after being told to stop.
Putting the pet in dangerous situations to terrify it, like dangling it out a window or over a balcony, locking it in a washing machine or dryer - even without turning it on, leading it out to the street.
Restraining the pet in any way, like locking the pet in a closet or cabinet to hear it cry in distress. Tying it up near something that scares it like fire. Binding it's tail or paws tightly with rubber bands or string.
If your child appears to enjoy watching a pet in pain or frightened.
Obvious signs like cutting or burning a pet.
Getting Help
If discussing the problem with your child isn't working, the next step is getting some professional counselling. Talk to your child's pediatrician about getting a referral to a counsellor or psychologist. Don't be ashamed or embarrassed about getting help for your child, it is absolutely imperative that you put a stop to this kind of behavior to prevent it from doing permanent psychological damage to your child.
Danielle Nottingham is a veterinary technician and writer at DogTrainingCollars.com who often writes about bad pet habits, or bad pet-owner habits, and ways to correct them.


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Success in property restoration for insurance claims starts with Xactimate estimating mastery.
If you work with insurance claims you will want to familiarize yourself with writing and reading Xactimate estimates. This is true whether you are an adjuster or a restoration professional. Xactimate has become the standard for the majority of insurance carriers and third-party administrators (TPAs).
If you are new to Xactimate we have three tips that will help you master the best practices for this estimating platform.
Xactimate tip number one for beginners
You must learn from rejection. You are going to get rejected, it's part of the process. Pay attention to what you are getting rejected for. Try to not repeat the same mistakes with the same carriers. Every carrier has their general rules as well as their idiosyncrasies. For example one carrier will want contents as CON LAB and another will want to see it as CON ROOM. It should only take one rejection for you to understand and remember which carrier prefers the line item one way or the other.
Xactimate tip number two for beginners
You must learn from repetition. Xactimate is designed for the straight forward losses. While we may disagree on the percentage of claims that are "typical", there are going to be losses that break with the norm. For the majority of your losses, once you have a loss format that has been accepted you can either create a macro or just cut and paste that format. In my opinion macros can be more work than they are worth but there are plenty of Youtube videos on how to construct these. Memorize the codes and line items that you utilize most frequently and utilize prior approved estimates as standards for future claims.
Xactimate tip number three for beginners
You must learn from relationships. Get to know your local adjusters. For those losses that break from the normal, in and out claim, make contact early and often with your local adjusters. You will learn what they see as simple approvals and what their idiosyncrasies are for the carrier they work for. Once you know the adjuster, make their job easier. Don't contact them for every little change but rather have your items in order so that you can discuss the claim and make a reasonable request that serves the client as well as meets the guidelines of the carrier.
Xactimate best practices for success in claims estimating
It is helpful to have a consultant or mentor, whether this is an internal resource or someone you pursue from outside your company. There are helpful Youtube videos, independent training programs as well as courses that you can take. (If you are learning to sketch in Xactimate you may find this video helpful) Don't let fear prevent you from reaching out to someone through email, LinkedIn or for coffee. For most professionals in the industry mastery has come through trial and error. If you want to survive and succeed in the insurance property claims industry, you must learn from rejection, repetition and relationships.
Contact us for coaching and consultation with estimating, project management and process improvement.
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The important thing to remember is that this balance looks different for everyone and will likely change from time to time in your own life. Be gracious with yourself as stages change
Be 100% Where You Are :
Just Because You Can Doesn't Mean You Should :
No Emails to Your Phone : Why cue yourself up for stress? If you're not able to reply to emails at the moment you receive them, they will only linger
Schedule Schedule Schedule :
Big Things -
Little Things -
Time for Rest -


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National exposureReorganization garners attention from national magazineReorganization of the Idaho Transportation Department received more national attention this month when Roads & Bridges Magazine included a news story about the efficiency measure in its September 2011 issue. ITD Director Brian Ness outlined the strategy of reducing nine administrative layers to five, returned decision-making authority closer to the front line where the work is done, and reduced the number of one-to-one supervisory relationships.Continue
EfficienciesD-3 Introduces two unique cost-saving measuresIn these tight economic times, ITD strives to find new and innovative ways to improve efficiency and stretch available funds. District 3 in southwest Idaho has introduced a number of initiatives that help ITD achieve the most with available funding. Continue
TechnologyBe careful where you go during Cyber Security Awareness MonthThe most serious economic and national security challenges we face are cyber threats. America's economic prosperity and competitiveness in the 21st Century depends on effective cybersecurity. Every Internet user has a role to play in securing cyberspace and ensuring the safety of themselves and their families online.Continue
HighwaysITD equipment operators compete at national eventTwo maintenance workers represented ITD at the annual the equipment roadeo portion of the 2011 Western Snow & Ice Conference in Estes Park, Colorado, Sept. 28-30. Mike Rearden Foreman of the District 1 Sign and Striping Crew and Kelley Dick of District 3's Sign Crew, teamed for the Tandem-Axle and Single-Axle truck competitions.Continue
TrainingFall computer classes scheduled at HQHeadquarters Training and Development will offer nearly a dozen computer classes this fall, beginning with Microsoft Excel on Oct. 25. MS Excel includes three full-day sessions. The first series is scheduled for Oct 25, Nov 1 and Nov 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. The Excel course will be offered a second time on Dec. 6, 13 and 20.Continue
In MemoriamWASHTO donates funds in honor of PrahastoITD received a Western Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials' tribute in honor of the late Jonathan Prahasto. The Island Park maintenance employee was killed in the line of duty north of Ashton on U. S. 20 last year.Continue
HighwaysChallis Chamber honored for D-6 cleanupsThe Idaho Transportation Board, led by District 6 representative Lee Gagner, honored a Challis group for its continuing efforts to keep an eastern Idaho highway free of litter and debris. For the past two decades the Challis Area Chamber of Commerce has maintained the roadside décor of U.S. 93 between mileposts 158 ad 160 as part of Idaho's Adopt-A-Highway program. Continue
MobilityWorkshop promotes planning for Safe Routes to SchoolThe Idaho Safe Routes to School (SR2S) program held a national course in Mountain Home in September. Attendees included local stakeholders and community leaders who are working together to make walking and bicycling to school safe and routine for local students. Continue
Cultural diversityPerspective has large impact on communicationIndividual perceptions have a profound influence on the communication process in a culturally diverse workplace where there is "sameness in difference and difference in sameness," explains Cherie Buckner-Web, an Idaho Legislator from Boise (D-19). The founder and principal of Sojourner-Coaching gave a recent presentation on cultural diversity and communication at ITD's Headquarters in Boise.Continue
PreparednessEarthquake Awareness Month to include Oct. 20 drillGov. C.L. "Butch" Otter has proclaimed October as Earthquake Awareness Month. Throughout October, the Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security is working to educate Idahoans about the fact that earthquakes occur in Idaho, and there are simple things that can be done to prepare for them. Continue
PreparednessGet ready to 'drop, cover and hold'At 10:20 a.m., Oct. 20, thousands of Idahoans will all be dropping to the floor simultaneously. The Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security, in conjunction with the Idaho Department of Education, is conducting the Great Idaho Shakeout. The goal of the Shakeout is to familiarize everyone on the "Drop, Cover and Hold" method for personal safety during an earthquake and to practice the technique.Continue
EmployeesIcon opens Meridian branch amid fanfareIcon Credit Union
We really appreciate all of those who could join us for our block party and grand opening on Sept. 10. The event was a tremendous success and we had an excellent time. Hundreds of members came out to enjoy the day with the smoked pork lunch, giveaways and music by the Big Wow.Continue
TechnologyEncore (9-30-11): New 'PASS' process to streamline access approvalA new solution should be in place next month that will streamline the process and reduce the number of steps required to complete access requests. The joint effort involved ITD's Project Management Office (PMO), Business and Support Management, Finance, Payroll, ETS and Human Resource Services.
EmployeesEncore (9-30-11): Celebrate contributions of people with disabilitiesEmployers are learning that competing in today's global market requires a highly skilled talent pool from which to draw. October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month and serves as an annual reminder that people with disabilities have valuable skills and talents to contribute as part of the nation's workforce.
HighwaysEncore (9-30-11): Scaling operation removing hazardous rocks from U.S. 95A safety project to remove loose and threatening rock from a steep slope next to U.S. 95 is going smoothly, and motorists generally have been patient as they wait for debris to be cleared from the highway. The project to stabilize a rock slope next to the highway about 8.5 miles south of Grangeville, at the top of White Bird Grade, began Sept. 22.Continue
Admin workshopEncore (9-30-11): Registration accepted for administrative support workshopA committee of ITD's administrative professionals is planning the 23rd annual Administrative Support Workshop Oct. 13 in Boise. The theme of the 2011 workshop is "The Color of Change," focusing on ITD's goal to become the best transportation department in the country. Sessions will offer ways that support staff can be involved in that journey to become the best, according to Carla Anderson.


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like the white dwarf, i am composed of degenerate matter
yesterday, at naptime, my three year old called me into her room. she said "daddy! my hands smell funny when i do this." and then she stuck both fists into her undies and begins vigorously masturbating. then she stuck them under the nose and inhaled deeply. "see?!"
i didn't quite know what to say. i want her to maintain a positive body-image and a develop a healthy relationship with sex. but, "i love the way your vagina smells" would have sounded, well, creepy. and i can't afford any more therapy than she'll already need. so i shrugged and said "uh, do you want to wash your hands?" she said yes. and then she did. and then she napped. the end.


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The most sweeping changes to Ontario's liquor laws since the end of Prohibition mean some grocers will soon sell beer and craft beer will have better placement on shelves.
Ontario: beer in grocery stores, more craft beer on shelves
The most sweeping changes to Ontario's liquor laws since the end of Prohibition mean some grocers will soon sell beer and craft beer will have better placement on shelves.
The provincial government announced Thursday that it will expand sales of beer to as many as 450 grocery stores — about the same number of Beer Stores that exist, and in addition to the 600-plus LCBO outlets across the province.
The new framework, which still has to be made law, would open up ownership of the Beer Store — currently controlled by three foreign-owned multinationals — to small brewers. It will also create a new craft category to better profile microbrewery products.
"I think more people will be drinking craft beer now," said Jordan Goure, a brewer who runs the new Brew microbrewery at 635 University Ave. E., with his brother Joshua. "It will just be more accessible for people. It was the convenience factor that we were missing with craft beer before."
Though the microbrewery east of Caesars Windsor only opened in December, the Goures hope to start selling Brew craft beer in their distinctive cobalt-blue bottles with hand-tied labels in stores within two years — something they couldn't have counted on even last year.
"Craft beer will actually sell more now," Jordan said. "It won't just sit there in the back where you can't see them, with Coors Light and Molson Canadian up front. Craft beer will also be more up front and centre."
Along with the expanded beer sales, Ontario will extend its program to return empty alcoholic containers to 2017 and expects to generate an additional $100 million a year in revenues for the province, phased in over four years.
The province also said that beer prices would be better controlled, producing among the lowest, if not lowest, beer prices in Canada.
Domenic Giglio, manager of Giglio's Market, hopes the government will allow smaller players to sell suds along with the chain grocers.
"I hope they open it up to smaller and more independent stores because originally they talked about only allowing large supermarkets to sell beer," Giglio said. "We'd love to have beer sales at our store here."
Giglio said his family store already sells an unusually large volume of non-alcoholic drinks and that customers have long expressed interest in the Quebec model — where small convenience stores can offer beer and wine.
"It goes without saying that most customers would be thrilled with being able to buy beer along with their groceries, not to mention the added cost savings," Giglio said. "It would be a great convenience."
He thinks Ontario's current agreement with the Beer Store — owned by American, Belgian and Japanese conglomerates — is a bad deal for Ontarians.
"A government monopoly technically benefits all of us, whereas with the Beer Store, controlled by three foreign companies, it doesn't," Giglio said. "I don't think there's any other industry that has that kind of set up."
Besides loosening beer sales, the Ontario government also announced Thursday that it would sell part of Hydro One. Under the plan, which would be introduced in stages, Ontario would retain the largest share while no other shareholder would be allowed more than 10 per cent ownership.
"These changes will strengthen our economy, create thousands of jobs and generate $4 billion for investment in infrastructure projects — representing the largest infrastructure investment in Ontario's history," Premier Kathleen Wynne said in a news release. "By making smart business decisions now — decisions that unlock the value of assets and that ensure that every public dollar is at work for the people of Ontario — we are positioning our province to thrive, long into the future."
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Dermatology and Rejuvenation
The experts at CSC Steil Dermatology are dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment and restoration of your skin, hair and nails. We offer clinical procedures as well as aesthetic procedures designed to fit you and your lifestyle. Our Staff, trained in dermatology, treat common conditions including, rosacea, acne, psoriasis, and warts as well as cancers including melanoma and lymphomas as well as offering costmetic procedures including fillers, neurotoxins, cellulite treatments, laser procedures like Exilis and Fractora and laser hair removal, acne scar treatments and more.
Learn more about CSC Steil Dermatology:


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It's probably just a personal prejudice on my part, but I'm a bit hesitant to embrace any product with the word "genie" in its name–expect for the Game Genie. Well played on that one, Galoob.
For those of you who don't harbor such hesitancies, meet the Gadget Genie. It's a little Ziplock Bag-like product that promises to remove all of the moisture from your electronics, should you get caught in a sudden downpour, accidentally drop the thing in a toilet, or become a surprise contestant on reboot of Nickelodeon's You Can't Do That On Television (though, for the record, the company makes no claims about the device's ability to work with slime).
If you find yourself in one of the aforementioned pinches, turn off the device, towel it off, pull out the battery (unless, of course, you purchased an Apple product), drop it in the Gadget Genie, seal it up, and leave it overnight. Then the beads will get to work.
But wait, there's more. The company is giving you three products for the price of one ($14.95 plus $3.95 shipping), and it's offering a $100 money back guarantee if the thing doesn't work for you. But how could it not? There's an "As Seen on TV" logo on the site. They don't give those out to just anyone, you know.
So, who wants to be the first person to see if the Gadget Genie works any better than a bag full of dried rice? Anyone got an extra iPhone lying around?
The spokesman in the informercially video on the site puts in best when he says, "Liquids are the enemy to all personal electronics." The enemy, people! Product is not available in stores, operators are standing by, blah, blah, blah.
Gadget Genie: Because You're Gonna Drop Your iPhone in the Toilet Sooner or Later
By gearlog 09.30.2010 :: 11:54AM EDT 09.30.2010
This site may earn affiliate commissions from the links on this page. Terms of use.


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Cisco Kayakers Clean-up Iconic Sydney HarbourLife At Cisco
We love giving back to our local communities! Freya L. shares how Cisco Australia came together to help clean Sydney Harbour.Read More
How is Cisco Celebrating Pro Bono Week?Corporate Social Responsibility
From engineers to project managers, everyone has the skills to help organizations make an impact. See how Cisco employees are doing just that for Pro Bono Week.Read More
Cisco's International Volunteers Make a Difference in ChinaCorporate Social Responsibility
CAAN's skills-based service trip was the first global give back program within Cisco which offered employees the opportunity to volunteer their time and expertise on an international level.Read More
A "Blessing" Comes To Life Thanks to CiscoLife At Cisco
This Cisco employee got to meet her sponsor child, Blessing, thanks to Cisco's program of time off to volunteer.Read More
CSR Volunteer Program Connects Employees to Students and Instructors in RioCorporate Social Responsibility
The final countdown to the 2016 Olympic Games is on – the Opening Ceremonies are a week away, and people around the world are working tirelessly to ensure that everythingRead More
There's Never Been a Better Time to Mentor in STEMCorporate Social Responsibility
A wise man once told me, "There's no better title than 'Dad'." We were talking about career achievements and family, and how to balance the two. I have to hand…Read More
"Earth Aware" Cisco Employees Go Green on Earth DayCorporate Social Responsibility
Every April 22, Cisco joins the world in celebrating Earth Day, an annual event held in more than 193 countries each year. Historically, Cisco has used Earth Day to holdRead More
Cisco's Inaugural Be the Bridge Campaign Raises Millions to Change the WorldCorporate Social Responsibility
Every day, there are millions in need in our communities and around the world– a mother who is not able to feed her children before putting them to bed; a…Read More
Cisco's RTP Employees Give Big to Local CharitiesCorporate Social Responsibility
Cisco is a great company to work for – with an even bigger heart. It is a privilege to work alongside great people who give of their time, talent, and…Read More
Be the Bridge, Change a LifeCorporate Social Responsibility
Every day, we have the opportunity to make the world a better a place. Here at Cisco, we take that opportunity to heart and find ways to multiply the impact…Read More


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Wholesome and flavorful, these multigrain chips were made for those who appreciate great taste and strive to eat healthy. Enjoy them right out of the bag or with a Harry & David salsa or relish.
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Place this blue swivel armchair in a living room or den to create and comfortable and versatile seating area.More Details >
In neutral blue polyester fabric, this upholstered swivel armchair blends in perfectly with any setting or style. It boasts solid wood and plywood construction and high density foam. A black metal swivel base is hidden at the bottom of the design, sure to surprise guests expecting a non-swivel seat.


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When Angie Douglass decided to apply to college two weeks ago, she wanted to know right away if she was admitted. So instead of mailing her application, she walked down the hall of her high school to the guidance counselor's office.
There, a visiting admissions officer from Western Michigan University at Kalamazoo greeted her, took her application, and began checking grades and test scores. Minutes later, the woman looked up, smiling.
"You're in," Ms. Douglass recalls her saying. Instantly, she felt relieved and excited, the load of college-hunting lifted from her senior-year shoulders.
Some call it "instant admission," while others dub it "immediate" or "on-site" admissions. Whatever you call it, a trend toward rendering speedy decisions in person is turning on its head the long wait for a "fat envelope" in the mail.
Public universities, community colleges, and even a selective college or two are adding this approach to their repertoire.
Some charge that it "manipulates" the process. But high-schoolers say they like the speedy decision, personal service, and ability to weigh various scholarship offers and shop around even after being admitted.
On the downside, it can be a wrenching experience. And students might tend to limit their search once they've been admitted somewhere.
Nobody knows exactly how many schools practice instant admissions. Fewer than a dozen institutions responded to an e-mail survey by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers. But about three dozen references to instant or immediate admissions programs appear at different university websites.
Barmak Nassirian, associate executive director of the association, says many colleges now wield speed and personal service as a competitive weapon.
"What is driving this is a customer-oriented approach, which began in the 1980s," he says.
Most of California's 27 state universities now offer "instant admission days" on selected high school campuses, says Selma Mayhew, supervisor of admissions and records at the Northridge campus. On the East Coast, William Paterson University in Wayne, N.J., began doing so about three years ago.
Advocates concede that the fast-answer system may not work for highly selective institutions, and probably works best for universities with clear-cut admissions criteria based mainly on grades and test scores.
The advantage for such schools is that those who apply this way are generally better students. And, because of the personal touch, a higher percentage of these applicants go on to attend that university after being admitted.
"If a student comes to an on-site interview, it's an indication that student is very interested in us," says John Fraire, dean of admissions at Western Michigan.
Other schools, however, find a middle ground: They keep the personal touch when delivering the admissions decision, but still review applications in advance. Thomas Reason, assistant director of admissions at the University of Wisconsin at Madison, says the "immediate decision" approach involves far too much manpower to be broadly useful with so many applicants.
Each fall, Wisconsin representatives attend a gathering of 40 universities at Barrington and Deerfield, two top high schools in the Chicago area.
At these unusual, high-intensity information sessions, a key feature is that school representatives also tell students face to face if they've been admitted or not. The news is often good, but not always. "It can be pretty awkward and troublesome," Mr. Reason says. "We word our [denial] letters very carefully so individuals have time to read and digest what we're telling them, to help them understand."
The in-person method doesn't allow students time to reflect, he says. "I've had students crying at my desk - followed up by phone calls by mom and dad."
Even so, students get deferrals more often than outright denials.
For representatives from Western Michigan, the occasional letdown is just one more opportunity to help kids plan more effectively. It's a skill their officials hone while barnstorming dozens of high schools throughout Michigan and elsewhere. "We turn it into a counseling session, a service to help them understand what they need to do," Mr. Fraire says.
At least some students say the face-to-face option is worth the risk.
"It's no more stressful than the rest of the college-application process," says Leda Ghannad, a senior at Deerfield who was admitted on the spot to the University of Wisconsin.
Bruce Scher, a college adviser at Barrington who started the event six years ago, says in-person admissions decisions do not diminish the admissions process, a criticism he says comes from competing high schools.
"Even if it's difficult, it can become a useful teaching moment," he says. "Kids are getting the word faster. And it humanizes an application process that can seem mysterious."
Even elite Bard College in Annandale-on-Hudson, N.Y., offers an "immediate admission plan." Students call to reserve a time during a visit, sending applications in a week or two ahead. Each is interviewed individually on campus.
"It's almost an old-school, old-world approach to admission," says Mary Backlund, Bard's director of admissions. "Students leave that day with a clear idea of whether they are, or are not, accepted.... Nothing has the level of quality of this kind of conversation."
Jessica Leinwand, a senior at Hereford High School in Parkton, Md., went through the Bard process a few days ago.
"I'm very very relieved [college hunting] is off of my list," Ms. Leinwand says. "A bunch of us walked over to the office as a group and [an admissions officer] had our letters waiting for us. We opened them as a group, you know, - you just open your letters and say, 'yeah!' "
E-mail firstname.lastname@example.com


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Sevak Om | Sevakji's Vision | Sevakji's Message | Sevakji's Life In Pictures
Sevak Om (Sevakji) is a kriya-yogi who has achieved a high level of spiritual insight and is an Awakener™ and a Navgraha Siddha™ (attainment in healing planetary malicious effects) and is in direct communion with the Supreme Divine Energy. He is an enlightened being who spent his first 32 years performing family & social duties (dharma) all the way leading up to his life transformation. His objective is "To spread unconditional love giving emphasis to the universal family-hood and dedication towards universal spiritual awakening to enhance collective consciousness thereby providing the full potential to experience divine love & attain Bliss".
Through his unique way of mixing Spirituality & Destiny he prescribes life solutions which brings back anyone to the path of success.
Although he was born in a Vaishnava family (worshiping God Krishna) he was always attracted towards God Shiv. And often in his sleep saw himself sitting on top of earth meditating and connecting with a bright object (The Divine) radiating warmth. Right from his early childhood he had been observing divine experiences with him. He has always been religious but he had been focused in lifestyle taught by the society. There was a time when Sevakji was pushed to limits in his life and he decided to not rest until he sought an answer from God (The Supreme Divine Energy). Yes, quite dramatic, but that was when the Divine Energy appeared before him. He was told whatever happened in his life was to purify him and make him walk the path of spirituality, indeed truly a blessing in disguise. The Supreme Divine Energy made him realize the core purpose of his being. It is during these days when Sevakji was blessed by the Supreme Divine Energy with the unveiling of life secrets and experienced communion with Supreme Divine Energy through three Maha-Shaktis – Sri Maha Pratyangira Kaali, Sri Sharabheswar Shivji and Sri Jagadambe Durga. On divine advice, he started his special diet consisting of fruits and liquids and did meditation for sufficient energy intake for a few years. As he was coming out of his tapasya (sort of penance) he was gifted with Tri-Shakti Energies and thereby Tri Shaktipat, Tri Kriya, Tri Meditation, Tri Yog & Tri Vidhya came into being through his own personal experience.


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Religious Education for Children
Religious Education for Children presents the Catholic Faith as knowledge, as commitment, and as a life-style. The programming is for children, grades k-8, if they are not enrolled in a Catholic School. Religious Education Classes are on Sundays at 10-11:15 am, and the classes begin on Sunday, September 23, 2018. Classes continue through April, 2019.
The program is supervised by the Director of Religious Education, Cindy Flaten. Volunteer catechists conduct the classes. These volunteers are required to participate in a certification process defined by the Archdiocese.
2018-19 Religious Education Calendar
2018-19 Religious Education Registration Form
Christ the King Catholic Church
5884 N. Crittenden Ave
Indianapolis, IN 46220
(317) 255-3666
Contact us via email
Office Hours 8:30 am - 4:30 pm M-F
July Office Hours 8:30 am - 3:00 pm M-F
Weekend Mass Times
Saturday Vigil: 5:00pm
Sunday: 8:00am, 10:00am, 11:30am


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Welcome to my online home, and congratulations on taking the first step in realizing your home ownership goals. I greatly look forward to putting my expertise and mortgage services to work for you!
We are confident that we are the lending relationship you are looking for because at AMEC Home Loans, we invest in what really matters…PEOPLE.
When you are ready to start your home loan process, click my Apply Now link to begin the conversation.


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Why don't you have life insurance?
A big reason many Americans don't have life insurance is carriers haven't asked them to purchase coverage, according to a new survey by Deloitte.
The study shows insurance companies have a long way to go to improve outreach to consumers. Life insurance ownership is now at a 50-year low. Fifty-six percent of U.S. households don't have individual life insurance, and 30 percent have no life insurance coverage at all, according to LIMRA, a global research and consulting group that tracks the life insurance industry.
Deloitte's study found that many consumers consider life insurance important. Forty-five percent of people who haven't bought coverage and 70 percent who have coverage include life insurance among their top five financial priorities.
Yet many survey respondents are unfamiliar with the broader roles and benefits of permanent life insurance as a long-term financial planning solution. Less than half are aware of how life insurance can help them save for financial emergencies, pay for children's college expenses, save for retirement or increase the value of their estates.
The survey highlighted other gaps in consumers' knowledge about life insurance.
"A significant number of respondents frankly don't know if they need more insurance -- or if they do, they don't know how much they might need to buy," Sam Friedman, insurance leader for Deloitte Research, said in a press statement. "Still others say they want life insurance but cannot afford it -- leaving open the question as to whether these cost-conscious prospects might in fact purchase a policy if they realized what the price and value for coverage might actually be."
A recent study by LIMRA and The LIFE Foundation found that consumers on average overestimate the cost of term life insurance by almost three times. The average cost of a $250,000 level-premium term life policy for a healthy 30-year-old is about $150 a year. Consumers on average estimated the cost of such a policy at $400 annually. Younger people overestimated the premium by almost seven times the actual cost.
Deloitte researchers found five key factors explain why uninsured people haven't bought life insurance:
- Don't see a need for it
- Think it's too expensive
- Lack knowledge about life insurance
- Mistrust insurers
- Find the process inconvenient
One-third of respondents say they lack coverage because no one had offered to sell them a policy, and 26 percent say the buying process is too difficult.


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Book Reviews
It has been said that every life is like a book. It may be more accurately stated that every life is like an entire library. This is particularly so where one has sought to live according to what Socrates termed an examined life.
Culturally, we place a high value on education, for it enables us to become familiar with the mental tools that can empower our lives and actions. Our educational forms also provide a common basis for communication with each other and the traditions that have helped to shape the many disciplines that contour material and social reality.
This section of The Healing Project carries a range of literary resources that I have found personally useful in the development of a holistic view of life. The phenomenon of healing is multidimensional. It is not only our bodies that may be in need of healing. We are also mental, spiritual and social beings situated in an energetically-charged material world.
Our social realities are conditioned by familial, occupational, institutional and political structures. Each or any of these may be in need of healing. And we live within political and occupational complexes that often undermine our biological, mental and social health.
The purpose of these literature reviews is to provide visitors to this site with a brief overview of a number of texts that have been influential in the development of many of the ideas that have found expression in Holism and Complementary Medicine.
These reviews, with representative excerpts from the texts, will hopefully provide visitors with a sense of each author's style and scope, and thereby offer encouragement to seek out the texts themselves, for that is where the real nourishment resides.
I wish thank my former secretaries Louise Leone and Annie Gillison who have, over the years, carried the lion's share of transcribing much of the material that follows.
The Categories
Alchemical Traditions
David Crow (2000): In Search of the Medicine Buddha.pdf
Arthur Edward Waite (1888): The Works of Thomas Vaughan (Eugenius Philalethes).pdf
David White (1996): The Alchemical Body. Siddha Traditions in Medieval India.pdf
Complementary Medicine
Meredith McGuire (1988): Ritual Healing in Suburban America.pdf
Critiques of Biomedicine
E.R. Brown(1979): Rockefeller Medicine Men. Medicine and Capitalism in America.pdf
Kenneth Pelletier (1994): Sound Mind, Sound Body. a New Model for Lifelong Health.pdf
Ivan Illich (1976): Limits to Medicine; Medical Nemesis: The Expropriation of Health.pdf
Rick Carlson (1975): The End of Medicine.pdf
Critiques of Complementary Medicine
Cultural and Historical Studies
Francis Bacon (1625): Essays.pdf
Leopold Kohr (1957): The Breakdown of Nations.pdf
Stephen McKnight (1989): Sacralizing the Secular: The Renaissance Origins of Modernity.pdf
Ecological Studies
History and Philosophy of Medicine
Jeanne Achterberg (1990): Woman as Healer.pdf
Donald Atkinson (1956): Magic, Myth and Medicine.pdf
Warren R. Dawson (1926): Magician and Leech: A Study in the Beginnings of Medicine with Special Reference to Ancient Egypt.pdf
Integral Studies
Stanislav Grof (1985): Beyond the Brain. Birth, Death and Transcendence in Psychotherapy.pdf
On Genocide
Martin Gilbert (1987): The Holocaust. The Jewish Tragedy.pdf
Joachim Fest (1970): The Face of the Third Reich.pdf
Poetic Consciousness
Kathleen Raine (1970): William Blake.pdf
Political Studies
Andrew Dobson (1995): Green Political Thought.pdf
Psychological Studies
R.D. Laing (1967): The Politics of Experience and The Bird of Paradise.pdf
Qualitative Research Methods
Sociological Studies
The Wisdom Traditions
Bernard Ruffin (1991): Padre Pio. The True Story
Nicholas Berdyaev (1939): Spirit and Reality.pdf
Teresa of Avila. Autobiography (trans. J.M. Cohen, 1957).pdf
Thomas a Kempis. The Imitation of Christ.pdf
The Asian Journal of Thomas Merton.pdf
The Yoga Tradition
Theos Bernard (1950): Heaven Lies Within Us.pdf
Ragavan Iyer (1983): The Golden Verses of Pythagoras.pdf
Signe Toksvig (1948): Emanuel Swedenborg. Scientist and Mystic


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Artbox | Excerpt Magazine Video Art CALL OUT
Your video art going public...
Michael Meneghetti will be presenting a new series of screen-based exhibitions and would be absolutely thrilled to feature your brilliant ideas and work in our growing network of public and private screens (Fed Square - Big Screen, VCA, Excerpt Magazine (online), Loop and more...)
If you are interested in being part of this new project, please complete the attached artist registration form by November 30. If you have any specific queries please contact Michael.
Long live video art!
Michael Meneghetti - artist and curator of moving image
Artbox | Excerpt Magazine


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Tennessee's own guide to great gardening and landscaping. A State-by-State Gardening Publication
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LESS REALLY IS MORE: Pruning Fruits and Vegetables to Increase Harvest
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Create a Hummingbird Habitat in Your Own Backyard
Control Caterpillar Pests
by Blake Layton
Where Are They Now?
by Steve Frank
Stop the Vampires!
Gardening Practices to keep mosquitoes down in your yard
by Yvonne L. Bordelon
Douse the Flames
Yes, you can control fire ants.
by Blake Layton
Fire ants prefer treeless grassy areas such as pastures, roadsides, parks and lawns, and densities can reach 50 to 200 mounds per acre in areas where they are not controlled. Fire ant mounds are unsightly, but it is their stings that make them so notorious. Unlike honeybees, fire ants do not have barbs on their stingers, and this means they can sting more than once. A single fire ant sting is painful, but unsuspecting gardeners sometimes sustain dozens or even hundreds of stings as a result of unknowingly stepping in a fire ant mound. The raised white pustules that result usually persist for about a week. >> read article
First Aid for Summer Squash
by Bob Westerfield
The Perils of Beneficial Insects
by Larry Caplan
Critter Wars
Dealing With Common Garden Pests
by Theresa Schrum
Fungus Gnats
by Blake Layton, Ph.D.


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1 John 3:1 "See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are!"
- Rejoice that as a daughter of the King you share in an inheritance.
- Let's pray for our daughters and spiritual daughters today.
- Pray she would be a woman of joy and laughter whose Christ-centred character is what makes her most beautiful (Proverbs 31).
- Pray her thoughts would be pure.
- Pray she would not be unequally yoked in relationships, specifically a marriage relationship.
- Pray for our daughters to discern God's voice in their lives.
- Pray for her ability to rise above the traps of people-pleasing so she can be kept safe by trusting Jesus. (Proverbs 29:25).
Read this account of the woman who had a hemorrhage for twelve years:
Luke 8:43-48 "A woman in the crowd had suffered for twelve years with constant bleeding, and she could find no cure. Coming up behind Jesus, she touched the fringe of his robe. Immediately, the bleeding stopped.
"Who touched me?" Jesus asked. Everyone denied it, and Peter said, "Master, this whole crowd is pressing up against you."
But Jesus said, "Someone deliberately touched me, for I felt healing power go out from me." When the woman realized that she could not stay hidden, she began to tremble and fell to her knees in front of him. The whole crowd heard her explain why she had touched him and that she had been immediately healed. "Daughter," he said to her, "your faith has made you well. Go in peace."
- Jesus affirms this woman by calling her daughter. Hear your Heavenly Father calling you daughter today as you approach him for a need in your life. Ask Jesus to give you a strong faith in the midst of a place of suffering today.
Julianne August, Prayer Catalys


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Dalian University of Technology CSC Scholarships 2019 Ranking Agency Number and Faculty
Dalian University of Technology CSC Scholarships 2019 Ranking Agency Number and Faculty
Dalian University of Technology (DUT) will offer the Chinese Government Scholarship -Chinese University Program for doctor or master degree students in 2019(not including majors on literature and arts in other than Chinese).
This scholarship only supports graduate programs. Scholarship duration is three years for master's programs and four years for doctoral programs.
- Most programs at DUT are instructed in Chinese, and DUT also offer some English-taught programs. For more details on programs, please refer to the attachments.
- The scholarship duration specified in the Admission Notice, covering major study and Chinese language study, cannot be extended in general.
- Students are not permitted, in principle, to apply to change their specialties, institutions or the duration of study as specified in the Admission Notice.
- Qualifications
1.Applicants must be non-Chinese citizens in good health.
2.Applicants must be students who study in foreign countries (a graduate from Chinese universities for more than one year).
3.Education background and age limit:
– Applicants for master degree programs must have bachelor's degree and be under the age of 35.
– Applicants for doctor degree programs must have master's degree and be under the age of 40.
Details of the Dalian University of Technology CSC Scholarships 2019 Ranking Agency Number and Faculty
- Exempt from tuition, accommodation on campus;
- Monthly allowance is offered as followings:
* Master Degree Students: 3,000 CNY/month
* Doctor Degree Students: 3,500 CNY/month
Scholarship students shall receive their monthly living allowance after registration. New students who register before 15th (15th included) of the registration month will get the full amount of living allowance of that month, and those who register after 15th will get half amount of that month. Students upon graduation will get a living allowance for another 15 days after the graduation date set by the university.
The allowance will be terminated from the following month after students suspend their studies, drop school or complete schooling from the university. Monthly living allowance covers school holidays. Scholarship students who missed the monthly living allowance during holidays could be reimbursed upon their return on campus. The allowance will be suspended for at least one month for those students who do not register on time without permission from the university, leave for non-health reasons or are absent from university over a month Dalian University of Technology CSC Scholarships 2019 Ranking Agency Number and Faculty .
Students who have to suspend their studies for pregnancy or for health reasons are required to go back to their home countries for labor or for treatment. The international travel expenses should be covered by students themselves. With the university's approval, the scholarship status can be reserved for up to one year and their living allowances will be suspended during their leave. The scholarship status will not be reserved for those who suspend their studies for other reasons.
- Comprehensive Medical Insurance and Protection Program for International Students in China are provided by MOE for the scholarship students in China in case of hospitalizing for serious diseases and accidental injuries. The institutions or the entrusted medical assistance agencies provide advancement service for insurance expenses, and claim for compensation with relevant payment receipts from the insurance company according to the stipulated insurance articles. For scholarship student, the individual claim will not be accepted by insurance company.
4.Applicants are expected to pay for their own international travel expenses.
Ⅱ.Application Procedures and Time
The applicants shall submit the application forms and materials to School of International Education, DUT from January 16,2019 to March 17, 2019. (Application deadline: March 17, 2019 postmarked)
The applicants must fill in and provide the following materials truly and correctly (in duplicate):
1.Checking List for DUT Master/Ph.D Application (Refer to Attachments)
2.The applicants for Chinese Government Scholarship should fill in the online application and print the application form and sign it after submitting it online. The CSC Online Application System for Study in Chinais available athttp://www.csc.edu.cn/Laihua
Note:When you fill in the online application,
① Agency No. of DUT is 10141.
② Item 5. b) "Subject or Field of Study in China", please fill in the majors or subjects which are listed in the DUT Master/Doctor Degree Programs. (Refer to Attachments)
③ If you choose the English-taught programs, please indicate it on the application form.
For applicants who apply for doctor, programs can also submit Application Form for Liaoning Government Scholarship at the same time. (Refer to Attachments)
All the applicants are also required to submit the online application at our website: http://iso.dlut.edu.cn
3.Highest diploma (notarized photocopy). If applicants are university students or already employed, they shall also provide studying certificates or employment documents. Documents in languages other than Chinese or English must be attached with notarized translations in Chinese or English Dalian University of Technology CSC Scholarships 2019 Ranking Agency Number and Faculty .
4.Transcripts. Transcripts in languages other than Chinese or English must be attached with notarized translations in Chinese or English.
5.A study or research plan in Chinese or in English (no less than 800 words). Please expatiate on the major or research field you would like to study at DUT.
6.Two letters of recommendation in Chinese or English by professors or associate professors from the university which applicants graduated.
7.Photocopy of Foreigner Physical Examination Form (applicants should keep the original one) filled in English. It is printed by Chinese quarantine authority and only for those whose period of studies in China lasts up to six months. The medical examinations must cover all the items listed in the Foreigner Physical Examination Form. Incomplete records or those without the signature of the attending physician, the official stamp of the hospital or a sealed photograph of the applicants are invalid. The medical examination results are valid for 6 month. All applicants are kindly requested to take this factor into consideration while determining the time to take medical examination.
8.Photocopy of passport.
9.If the applicants have the HSK Certificates, please submit the photocopy of the HSK Certificates.
10.6 pictures (3cm*4cm).
The applicants should submit the above documents to DUT directly.
Ⅲ. Admission Notice and Enrollment Time
The admission notice will be issued to the applicants at the end of June, 2019, and enrollment time will be September, 2019.
If you cannot start your study at DUT in September, 2019, please do not apply for it. The study time cannot be extended.
Ⅳ. Contact Information
Contact Person: Ms. Luna
Mailing Address:
School of International Education
Dalian University of Technology
Linggong Road No.2, Gaoxinyuan District
Dalian 116024, P.R. China
Tel: +86-411-84706048
Fax: +86-411-84770361
Email: [email protected]


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Sage 100 Contractor Vs QuickBooks
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Expected to open in Manhattan's Lower East Side in 2021, the Lowline will be the world's first underground park. more...
August 25 , 1944 : Paris was liberated from Nazi occupation. more...
Learn something new every day
More Info... by email
A bentwood rocking chair is made from wood that has been steamed and bent into curved shapes. Craftsmanship is quite important when choosing the best bentwood rocking chair, and designs can be quite elaborate. When choosing the best design, look for a bentwood rocking chair that is as elaborate or simple as the overall aesthetic of the room in which it will be placed, and decide what type of finish you want for your room. Some woods finish lighter, while others can be quite dark. Above all else, be sure the chair is comfortable and strong enough to support sitting regularly.
Many designs of a bentwood rocking chair position the seat back in such a way that the chair tips steeply. Be sure that the chair is stable enough to support you when rocking backward; a poorly designed bentwood rocking chair may allow you to rock too far backward, thereby tipping the chair over. The front of the chair will often feature a large, sweeping curve that tilts the seat of the chair down and backward as well, so be sure to test for stability and comfort.
The seat and seat back may or may not feature a cushion. These parts of the chair can be made from wood, wicker, or other materials, so be sure to check these parts of the chair for durability and comfort. If the chair is upholstered, be sure to note the material used for the upholstery. Remember that upholstery may need cleaning at some point in the future, so be sure the upholstery used on the rocking chair you are considering can be cleaned easily. If the chair is not upholstered and you find it to be uncomfortable without cushions, check to see if it is feasible to add a cushion to the chair for added comfort.
A bentwood rocking chair tends to be highly ornate, so when it comes to choosing the best design, you are left up to your own preferences. Be sure to choose a chair that is appropriately ornate but also fitting with the aesthetic of the room. Some chairs tend to be so ornate they are simply not comfortable; try to avoid such chairs, unless you plan on using your bentwood rocking chair for display purposes only. If this is the case, consider searching for an antique chair; they will be more expensive and more fragile, but they will be more elegant and worthy of being a showpiece.
Post 1
My family makes a nice bentwood rocker, in a more modern style. It is top of the line, but at $2,000, only costs half what similar designer chairs cost. It won't tip over, and is easy to get in and out of, even for pregnant women. There are also more stylish solid wood rockers too. Rapson Bentwood Rocker: Good looking and practical. Great for a nursery.
One of our editors will review your suggestion and make changes if warranted. Note that depending on the number of suggestions we receive, this can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Thank you for helping to improve wiseGEEK!


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- +49 (0)521-44818616 Mon-Thu: 10am-6pm · Fri: 10am-4pm CET
|Depature flight
|Return flight
The Seychelles are full of highlights just waiting to be discovered, including the beautiful Anse Source d'Argent beach on La Digue, the famous Vallée de Mai nature reserve on Praslin, or the smallest capital city in the world, Victoria! With so much to see, the Seychelles are the ideal candidate for an island-hopping holiday, with the three main islands being connected via ferry transfer, and many of the Seychelles' other smaller islands being reachable by boat as part of a daily excursion or a short stay.
The third-largest of the inner Seychelles islands, Silhouette, is a 20 km² granite island located north-east of Mahé, rising up to 751 m above sea level at its highest point. With undisturbed beaches, extensive nature, and absolute isolation, Silhouette has many attractive characteristics to capture your attention. The island's two small villages house approximately 150 people, most of whom operate the island's two accommodation options: the five-star Hilton Labriz Resort and the La Belle Tortue Lodge. Silhouette does not have any roads or streets, and no supermarkets, but this makes it the ideal spot to enjoy a few days of relaxation.
Anse Source d'Argent is a fantastic beach on La Digue. In fact, it's so beautiful that it has been used as the set of both films and advertising shorts. Shallow turquoise water, incredible white sand, and contrasting, imposing granite boulders create a postcard scenery that makes the beach one of the most-photographed in the Seychelles.
The smallest capital city in the world will automatically be on the agenda of anyone travelling to another Seychelles island by boat, as it is also home to Mahé's harbour. Victoria has many other things to make it worth a visit, however, including restaurants, shops, cafés, and the beautiful Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market, where you can buy freshly-caught fish and exotic fruits, as well as spices, herbs, and much more.
This natural park on Praslin belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage list, and is one of the best-known sights in the Seychelles. Besides the endemic Coco de Mer coconut, which has the largest seeds of any plant in the world, there are many more floral species to see here. In total, there are around 5,000 different species that you can see here.
This widespread bay ranks among the Seychelles best-known and most-popular beaches, for holidaymakers and locals alike. Numerous accommodation options, restaurants, and tour operators make this beach a real 'all-rounder' for your stay on Mahé.
This environmentally-protected national park consists of six different islands, just off the coast of Mahé. The snorkelling grounds between the islands rank among the best in the Seychelles, so make sure to bring along your snorkelling gear!
This small island is the northernmost island in the Seychelles, and is a real natural wonder. From May to September, the island is home to millions of sooty tern birds, and is also home to Esmerelda, a 200 year-old giant tortoise, and the oldest of its species in the world!
Anse Lazio is a picture-book beach on Praslin, the second-largest of the Seychelles' inner islands. The mixture of turquoise water, powdery white sand, and incredible granite boulders make this beach one of the most beautiful in the Seychelles.
This small island is right next to Praslin, and is a popular destination for day-trips and excursions. Besides Praslin, it is the only island where the well-known Coco de Mer palm tree grows naturally. The island is also home to mangrove forests and many giant tortoises.
The 905 m-high peaks of Mahé are a treat for hiking fans. The Morne Blanc Tour (667 m) is an example of this, trailing through old tea plantations and tropical forests to the peak. The effort is definitely worth it for the view from the top, which is stunning.


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"Get Closer" is a song by American soft rock duo Seals and Crofts, released as a single in 1976. The song is the title track of their eighth studio album, Get Closer. It reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Billboard ranked it as the No. 16 song of 1976.
The song features vocals by former Honey Cone member, Carolyn Willis.