text:
Main navigation | Main content
New technologies delivered to your inbox Subscribe
20180330 – This technology encompasses novel vaccine adjuvants with limited systemic exposure. The development of vaccines based on antigen subunits have been plagued by struggles with inducing the necessary T-cell response to confer protection while maintaining minimal toxicity. This technology overcomes these challenges using a two-pronged approach. First, the use of novel agonists for TLR7 and... Read More
20180382 – Adjuvants are required to potentiate the immune response to increase efficacy and longevity of many vaccines. The need for new adjuvants is becoming increasingly recognized. The few adjuvants that are commercially available fall into a small number of classes, and the creation of new adjuvants has been hindered by issues of toxicity. Using systematic high-throughput screening, the very... Read More
2019-196 – This medical device is a modular vaginal dilation and flushing device that helps improve patient compliance and prevent serious postoperative complications associated with vaginoplasty. Patient compliance is improved by reducing the number of painful dilation and douching procedures required during the 90-days post-op period. The device can be used for preventing both acute and chronic... Read More
2019-238 – This technology is a new peritoneal dialysis (PD) connection interface that simplifies the process of connecting and disconnecting a peritoneal dialysis cycler or solution bag. It is expected to reduce rates of PD-associated peritonitis. The technology features a redesigned transfer set and transfer set caps. The patient inserts a capped transfer set and capped disposable tubing... Read More
20180320 – A smartphone app (iTorsion) for diagnosis of ocular torsion by physicians. It is not intended for self-diagnosis by patients. Patients wear standard red/green glasses. While holding the smartphone perpendicular to the ground, the patient should predominantly see one line out of each eye. The patient is asked to make the lines parallel with each other and with the ground. After finishing... Read More
20180109 – New enhanced-affinity MHCII molecules could improve current research tools for the study of CD4 T cells during cancer, infections, and autoimmune disease. A novel process uses directed evolution to create modified MHCII molecules with better binding affinity than their wild-type counterparts for the co-receptor CD4 found on T cell surfaces. Current methods for detecting and... Read More
2019-018 – This technology is a new 3D bioprinted method to create in vitro tumor models. The 3D printed microenvironments reconstruct the chemical, physical and/or spatiotemporal aspects of native biological microenvironments. The design incorporates the vasculature and stromal elements involved in tumor microenvironments (e.g., tumor cells, fibroblasts and blood vessels). In addition, the... Read More
20170226 – New membrane-permeable synthetic peptides could slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other tauopathies. These new peptides inhibit tau phosphorylation by targeting specific and multiple phosphorylation sites. This halts disease progression by inhibiting tau mislocalization to dendritic spines and subsequent tau-mediated neural deficits. The technology is anticipated to... Read More
20180155 – A fast, simple and accurate quality control test can determine water quality where a very dilute level of contamination by pathogenic bacteria is suspected. The test uses a novel dielectrophoresis (DEP) step that concentrates and recovers a high fraction of bacteria. Then, inactivated free DNA from no-longer-viable bacteria allows nucleic acid amplification technology to measure DNA... Read More
20160146 – A novel catheter system performs a targeted form of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to provide blood to the heart and brain during cardiac arrest or cardiogenic shock. The targeted cardio-cerebral ECMO (TC-ECMO) system is easy for average-trained, less specialized healthcare personnel to use, it provides time to transfer the patient... Read More
20170241 – This new method obtains populations of neural progenitor cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). For obtaining primitive neuroectoderm in particular, it uses specific growth factor and signaling inhibitors to cause undifferentiated hPSCs to transition to a neural phenotype within just 24 hours. Current methods to generate ectoderm in vitro requires at least 6... Read More
20170166-20170167-20170168 – A portfolio of three skin care formulations aims to prevent and even treat skin cancer. The portfolio consists of a base lotion, a sunblock lotion and a pharmaceutical skin cancer treatment. Moisturizing creams, cosmetics and other topical home care products may contribute to increasing non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC) and/or melanoma in humans. While moisturizing creams... Read More
20160345 – A novel ultrasound hearing aid noninvasively restores hearing by activating the auditory system of the brain. The technology uses ultrasound stimulation to create waves and vibrations in the brain fluids. These waves and vibrations vibrate cochlear fluids through the inner ear canal, which activates the auditory brain and induces hearing. The ultrasound can also vibrate cochlear fluids... Read More
20150307 – A pre‐filled syringe featuring Broselow color-coding system weight markings accurately calculates pediatric doses based on the patient's weight. A circumferential ring-shaped stopper slides up and down the syringe plunger. This stopper allows medical providers to "dial in" the patient's weight (in Kg) to select an accurate dose, thus preventing over/under dosing. Designed mainly for... Read More
20150147 – A new type of soft surgical robot capable of safely travelling through vasculature offers surgical robotic benefits in treating cardiovascular disease (CVD). The worm-like design is based on fiber-reinforced elastomeric enclosures (FREE). It features hydraulically powered actuators with pressure-threshold valves, offering integrated sensing and precision control at the end-effector. The... Read More
20160338 – A new biosynthetic pathway leads to synthesis of serofendic acid, a potent neuroprotectant compound. The process begins by using a Streptomyces host bacteria to synthesize ent-atiserenoic acid (EAA), a precursor molecule in synthesizing serofendic acid with high yields. Serofendic acid has been shown to be an effective neuroprotectant that protects various cell types (neurons,... Read More
20180342 – A wearable technology uses light therapy to speed brain recovery in a new, point-of-care concussion therapy. The adjustable headgear device, designed like a helmet, provides homogeneous, low-level, near-infrared light for application to the entire head, speeding concussion recovery by helping the brain produce more of the energy needed for healing. The wearable device provides... Read More
20150351 – A pre-surgical pulmonary nodule localization coil system moves with a patient's respiratory cycle, allowing the patient normal respiration without dislodging the device prior to surgery. The localization coil system has two components: The localization coil is pre-loaded into a delivery needle, and a pusher rod inside the needle deploys the coil and allows the needle to retract... Read More
20170057 – A new cancer-fighting technology uses non-invasive local hyperthermia to kill metastasizing breast cancer cells. The approach builds upon existing poly(ε-caprolactone) scaffolds that recruit and trap metastasizing breast cancer cells in vivo. An electrically conductive/semi-conductive metal disk placed in the center of the porous polymer scaffold can generate enough heat to kill cancer... Read More
20160398 – A double-walled aortic stent graft is compliant to luminal pressure in the aorta. The outer layer of this new design is rigid, similar to current stent grafts, and the inner layer is comprised of a compliant, flexible material that exhibits elastic properties similar to a healthy aorta. The space between the inner and outer layers can be filled (i.e., with sterile saline) to create a... Read More
20180153 – New derivatives of pseudo-glutathione (ᴪ-GSH) can be used as prodrugs for potential Alzheimer's disease (AD) treatment and prevention. The prodrugs and salts convert to ᴪ-GSH in plasma and show increased stability in the gastrointestinal tract and plasma. The prodrugs have demonstrated working memory restoration in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease, and also have potential... Read More
20160149 – A novel metabolomics method can detect pre-invasive and metastatic breast cancer cells by measuring aerobic glycolysis (conversion of glucose to lactate). The ability of cancer cells to produce lactate through aerobic glycolysis is a hallmark of cancer, and increased glucose uptake and elevated aerobic glycolysis are closely correlated with increased tumor aggressiveness and poor... Read More
20180212 – A Bayesian optimization algorithm can be used for selecting and tuning operational parameters of medical stimulation devices such as deep brain stimulators (DBS) and spinal cord stimulators. The algorithm helps select the optimal set of parameters to test so as to find the therapeutic minimum/maximum in as few evaluations as possible. This optimization approach may be used in a wide... Read More
20180323 – Polylactose, a novel dietary fiber, shows great promise as a prebiotic additive to human food products or supplement. Created by polymerizing lactose (a component of dairy whey), polylactose is highly fermentable, and had a profoundly positive effect on the colonic microflora. Preclinical studies showed significantly reduced body fat, lowered plasma leptin concentrations, improved blood... Read More
20180120 – A new design for a shape memory alloy compression garment (SMA-CG) provides dynamic compression for therapeutic relief. The garment features nickel titanium (NiTi) alloy SMA spring actuators that provide compressive force when electrical power is applied. A novel tension limiting switch gives patients independent control of compression and offers hands-free power switching for constant... Read More
20170232 – New compounds inhibit activity of multiple bacterial histidine kinases (HKs) and hold potential as therapeutics or antibiotics. These scaffolds could provide valuable starting points for designing broadly effective HK inhibitors, globally reducing bacterial signaling, and ultimately, developing a class of antibiotics with a new mechanism of action. HKs are one part of the bacterial... Read More
20160320 – Chimeric peptide molecules that potentially activate the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) are derived from molecules that both activate and block the receptor. The chimeric molecules contain a group that activates MC4R and inserts it into a chemical structure that potently blocks MCR4. This novel chemical scaffold incorporates an activating sequence (His-DPhe-Arg-Trp) into an antagonist... Read More
20160189 – A noninvasive technology can treat tooth decay at its earliest sign through remineralization of tooth enamel. This technology combines two nonsurgical methods: polymer-induced liquid precursors (PILPs) and elastin-like recombinamers (ELRs). These methods deliver a void-filling organic substrate and supersaturated amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) deep into the lesion. Early stage... Read More
20090032 – A new algorithm tracks exterior and interior surfaces of organs to provide a surgeon with a real-time, 3D view of organs as they deform. The 3-D reconstruction allows the surgeon to "see" through the wall of an organ during surgery rather than just look at its surface. The algorithm is based on sparse sampling of the exterior surfaces tracked by identifying subspaces in which the... Read More
20180031 – A new traumatic brain injury (TBI) catheter features an extra ventricular drain (EVD) with integrated redundant pressure transducers and multi-focal electrical stimulating and monitoring electrodes. The following innovations address the new era of traumatic brain injury neurocritical care: Two independent, continuous pressure transducers. Built into the tip of the EVD catheter,... Read More
20170124 – A new method will help achieve specific DNA editing events with fewer off-target issues by using modified Cas9-APOBEC fusion polypeptides. Crystal structures for ssDNA bound APOBEC3A and APOBEC3B can be used for rational design of inhibitors to impede the evolvability of viruses and tumors and for development of APOBEC-mediated base editing reporter (AMBER) systems. Better tools... Read More
z04188 – A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) method performs in vivo imaging of amyloid plaque in the brain, with or without a contrast agent. The image is reconstructed using data acquired from a very high resolution spin-echo imaging pulse sequence, which achieves contrast using a respiratory gated and cardiac gated spin-echo pulse sequence to reduce motion artifacts at the very high image... Read More
20170394 – A novel bottom-up approach allows magnetic resonance users to custom design optimal radiofrequency (RF) pulses. The method generates pulses using an algorithm that allows users to design RF pulses with a control variable not normally available to them. The tool optimizes pulse shapes up front to match desired bandwidth, thus minimizing power, boosting the signal-to-noise ratio and... Read More
20170106 – ADA-07 is a novel potent T-LAK cell-originated protein kinase (TOPK) inhibitor that effectively suppresses solar ultraviolet (SUV) induced skin carcinogenesis. The novel compound, 5-((1s, 3s)-adamantan-1-yl)-3-(hydroxyimino) indolin-2-one, directly inhibits TOPK, an upstream activator of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades involved in inflammation, DNA damage and tumor... Read More
20160307 – A cholecystokinin receptor (Cck1R) agonist may treat symptoms of ataxia. Cerebellar ataxia disorders occur when cerebellar Purkinje cells degenerate and die. The protective pathway identified involves upregulating the Cck gene by administering a Cck1R agonist. When Cck (or Cck1R) was knocked out in mice models, the mice showed progressive ataxia, Purkinje cell degeneration and death, but... Read More
20160148 – A new platform technology uses laser assisted gold nanorods (GNRs) to warm cryopreserved zebrafish embryos, germplasm and other millimeter-sized tissues and biomaterials. Biocompatible gold nanorods absorb pulsed laser energy to generate rapid and uniform warming (up to 14,000,000 °C/min) in frozen biomaterials. Laser assisted GNR heating is the only method able to generate such high... Read More
20110139 – A new technology is an innovative combination of two independent data acquisition acceleration techniques: Simultaneous Image Refocusing (SIR) and Multiband excitation (MB) using multiple receiver coils. The new technology provides significantly faster functional and diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and works on all modern MRI scanners. SIR and MB techniques... Read More
20160347 – The MnMotion System™ is an easy to use clinical tool to accurately measure, diagnose and objectively track progress for shoulder movement disorders. The system consists of a physical component that attaches to a mobile device or smartphone and accurately measures shoulder positions. The handle maximizes accuracy of measurement, including location of fingers relative to important bony... Read More
20180269 – An intraoral device offers targeted drug delivery. The self-contained apparatus (which may or may not contain cartridges) is placed in the mouth between the upper and lower teeth. When compressed, the fluid chambers expel fluid through a nozzle onto the target surface (i.e., posterior oropharyngeal surface and palatine tonsils). The device provides rapid, targeted therapy for several... Read More
20170266 – An algorithm uses prognostic models based on electronic medical record (EMR) data to predict one-year mortality risk. The random forest model, which predicts the risk of death within a year of the last day of hospitalization, is remarkable as a broadly applicable prognostic model that does not focus on a specific disease. The model is derived from about 100,000 hospital discharges, is... Read More
20170276 – A new technology targets asymmetrically signaling homodimers using biased unmatched bivalent ligands (BUmBLs). Four new compounds have a functional effect on melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) signaling and are the first-ever melanocortin biased ligands that favor cAMP signaling pathways over β-arrestin recruitment pathways when targeting the MC4R. This strategy is the first to... Read More
20170242-20170352 – Fluorophore conjugated beta-lactone (β-lactone) chemical probes can selectively label penicillin binding proteins (PBPs). The selective activity-based probes for PBP labeling in S. pneumoniae use novel β-lactone scaffolds and uniquely feature PBP2x localization at both the septal ring and the center of the septa during division. Adding clickable groups or affinity groups such as biotin... Read More
20180242 – A new method to repair collapsed central airways (trachea and main bronchi) includes inserting a prosthesis that mitigates some of the current stents used to open the airway. The method also applies radiofrequency energy to remodel the muscles of the trachea. While inherited central airway collapse is relatively rare condition found in children, it is becoming more recognized as... Read More
20170418 – Base editing is an exciting new genome engineering technology. C-to-T mutations in genomic DNA have been achieved using ribonucleoprotein complexes comprised of rat APOBEC1 single-stranded DNA deaminase, Cas9 nickase (Cas9n), uracil DNA glycosylase inhibitor (UGI), and guide (g)RNA. Here, we report the first real-time reporter system for quantification of APOBEC-mediated base editing... Read More
20170289 – A new sensor design features a three-dimensional (3D) metamaterial consisting of microcubes patterned with split-ring resonators (SRR). Depending upon the pattern used (C-shape with tilt or an octagram shape) the 3D cube can act completely anisotropic or completely isotropic. The polymer-based fabrication of the cube also makes it transparent to light apart from the metal... Read More
20150354 – A micro-fabricated, layered graphene sensor detects formaldehyde gas based on an electrochemical method. A layer-by-layer method using poly(diallyldiamine chloride) (PDDA) immobilizes formaldehyde dehydrogenase to a single layer sheet of graphene, where an enzymatic reaction links formaldehyde to the graphene sheet, changing the graphene's electrical resistance in proportion to... Read More
20110151-20120311-20130272 – A functional cosmetic portfolio offers UV protection, UV damage repair and anti-aging benefits for the skin. The compounds, ProteXadine, mimic the skin's natural responses upon exposure to UV light and not only protect DNA from UV damage but also stimulate the body's natural defense mechanisms by activating DNA repair enzymes, the "first steps" of DNA damage repair pathway. In addition,... Read More
20180040 – Recombinant immune cells are genetically modified to express a heterologous high affinity IgG Fc receptor. The IgG Fc receptor is a chimeric construct. One iteration is referred to as hCD64/16a, created by cloning cDNAs of CD16a and CD64 from human peripheral blood leukocytes and fusing components of these two FcγR cDNAs to create a chimeric receptor. It consists of the extracellular... Read More
20140266 – A new, multi-purpose arm ergometer design improves patient access to exercise in many situations. The system was initially designed for patients lying supine in a hospital bed, providing upper extremity exercise for bedridden persons. The device uses a lightweight arm ergometer with a self-contained mobile frame that safely provides access to arm exercise. The device is mobile, for easy... Read More
20160346 – Targeted nucleases are used for the first time to optimize gene editing in primary human natural killer (NK) cells. The new method, which boasts never-before-seen efficiencies, includes a genome-edited primary NK cell, methods for editing a primary NK cell genome, and methods of administering a genome-edited primary NK cell. The primary NK cell may be rested or stimulated: it may be a... Read More


text:
You might know that in Linn Park there are 40 bird boxes! Well Friends of Linn Park have just been supported even further by Travis Perkins (Muirend) allowing us to double that number! The local merchant gave Friends of Linn Park an absolutely amazing deal meaning more wildlife homes around Linn Park and the local area. We cannot thank them enough and we would highly recommend them as their wood is FSC approved and very competitively priced.
Category Archives: Wild
Waxwings in Hamilton
A couple of Waxwings were spotted at the junction between Quarry Street/Tuphall Road, Hamilton. They were reported to have been showing reasonably well.
Jack Snipe Ringing
Some of you might know that I take part in Ringing! Different ringing projects run across the year but as Winter approaches, Jack Snipe ringing has started again. This is done at two places, one place called Cathkin Marshes (Scottish Wildlife Trust) and another called Windlaw Marsh.
Help Hedgehogs!
Hedgehogs need our help more than ever and its up to us how we tackle this problem of depreciation caused by some whose carelessness and thoughtlessness has caused such a negative impact to our hedgehog population. There are around 7 billion people on earth and only 1 million hedgehogs in the UK!
European Bee-eater at Crawford, South Lanarkshire
This species had not been seen in the Clyde area since 1869 making this an extremely exciting species to see. After my previous fail of seeing this European Bee-eater a few days ago, This day absolutely made up for it. This has to be one of my birding highlights of all time!
Continue reading European Bee-eater at Crawford, South Lanarkshire

subset: commoncrawl


text:
GREENOCK parkrun welcomed 125 participants to the five-kilometre Esplanade course.
Twelve people achieved personal best (PB) times including Neil Lafferty, who finished first for the first time and ran sub-18 minutes (17.27) for the first time.
Others improving their times were Richard Newsome (20:35), Stephen Fulton (23:49), Seonaid MacPhail (27:34), Lynsey McALees (28:26), Andrew Sutherland (29:42), Susan Hunter (29:45), Angela Devlin (29:52), Colin Devlin (30:38), Claire Cassidy (33:21), Roslyn Mitchell (34:41), Irene McIntosh (40:04).
The first female over the line was junior runner Ava Beaton with a time of 21:50, only four seconds off her personal best. Second female Cheryl Thomas was agonisingly only three seconds off of her PB that she set in June last year.
Event volunteers


text:
Monday, September 14, 2009
the sound of me going mental
Remember when I said I would go mental if I ever found one of the cats curled up in the wash basin I use to hold dirty dishes?
'Nuff said.
(Because, you know - LITTER BOXES. And little cat paws carrying E.COLI AND PARASITES.)
For added entertainment value, above is Guy on the other end of the counter, glaring at me as if to say, "Oh yeah, punk? We OWN this counter."
Posted by Michelle Lynne Goodfellow at 6:46 AM
Labels: animals, cats, things that make you go "hmm"
No comments:
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Brian S. Krauss
After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, Brian started his career with Arthur
Andersen & Co. He worked in the audit division and specialized in operational reviews.
Brian has held various executive level financial positions including CFO with a public
company where he led restructuring initiatives focusing on streamlining operations to
achieve profitability objectives. Brian also provided broad-based consulting services
such as business process reviews, merger and acquisition integration, and served in
transformational interim executive roles. These services included working with firms in
turnaround situations to help them reorganize and optimize cash flow.
Brian's most recent corporate experience was with Accenture, L.L.P. He had an
operational role that concentrated on transferring large accounting and purchasing
functions to the Accenture platform. Through his operational work Brian developed
proprietary methodologies that focused on reducing transition time while maintaining
and improving service levels.
After a successful career in corporate finance and consulting Brian decided to take his
career in another direction. The "corporate life" was not providing the same satisfaction
and challenges as it had in the past. He utilized his financial background to tap into and
learn more about investments, the entrepreneurial community, and the financing of early
stage companies. Focusing on managing his own portfolio led Brian to pursuing
learning more about alternative investments and financial planning education. His
ambition is to raise awareness and provide training to increase financial competency
and expand his philanthropic efforts.
Brian is currently affiliated with the following organizations:
- Irish Angels, Investment Committee Member
- University of Chicago – Private Wealth Management Program, Participant
- The Financial Planning Association, Member
- AICPA, Member
- Illinois CPA Society, Member
Brian received his B.B.A. in Accountancy from the University of Notre Dame. where he
was a pitcher on the varsity baseball team. He is a CPA and has an M.B.A. with a
concentration in Finance from DePaul University. Brian grew up in the western suburbs
of Chicago where he still resides. Brian enjoys baseball, golf, and driving as fast as the
law will allow in his Tesla.


text:
Remember to like DIY FIX on Facebook and PINTEREST to be updated every time we post new and interesting articles.
35 Cold Weather Hacks to Keep You Cozy This Winter
"If winter weather is getting you down, try out these cold-weather hacks to keep you nice and toasty even during the coldest winter storms. Repurpose things on hand or find super cheap items to use for these winter hacks. Learn how to de-ice your car and outdoor steps naturally, keep the chill out of your home with household items, and other little tips and tricks to keep you warm and cozy this season. Use these old tips and new techniques to keep warm and safe during the cold. Some of these are tried, tested, and absolutely effective in my homestead. So better read each hack and find out what suits you best!"
Make this winter your easiest winter yet with this collection of simple hacks. From the simple, no-brainer tips (like recommending you drink something hot to warm you up from the inside out) to the unexpected (like making a dead-battery hand warmer), you're sure to find some tips and tricks that will work for you!
35 Cold Weather Hacks to Keep You Cozy This Winter


text:
Rare Disease Day in Poland
Poland's Rare Disease Day celebrations began in 2009, and since then, there have been many conferences and photo exhibitions. The First Lady of Poland offered her patronage to the day in 2013 and personally participated in key events. Every year there is a conference in Warsaw Royal Garden at which NGOs, doctors, politicians, media and patients are present.
In 2018 the focus of the Rare Disease Day conference was 'From experiment to treatment'. Earlier in the month Poland also celebrated with a charity concert.
Do you know of any events not listed here? Or would you like to get involved? Email us at [email protected].
Friends in Poland:


text:
Évolution récente de l'emploi industriel dans les territoires ruraux et urbains : une analyse structurelle-géographique sur données françaises
Download full text from publisher
CitationsCitations are extracted by the CitEc Project, subscribe to its RSS feed for this item.
Cited by:
- Michel Blanc & Bertrand Schmitt & Éric Ambiaud, 2007. "Orientation économique et croissance locale de l'emploi dans les bassins de vie des bourgs et petites villes," Économie et Statistique, Programme National Persée, vol. 402(1), pages 57-74.
- Nadine LEVRATTO & Denis CARRÉ, 2013. "La Croissance Des Établissements Industriels : Une Question De Localisation," Region et Developpement, Region et Developpement, LEAD, Universite du Sud - Toulon Var, vol. 38, pages 93-120.
More about this item
Keywordslocal manufacturing employment growth; shift and share analysis; urbanrural areas;
JEL classification:
- R11 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Regional Economic Activity: Growth, Development, Environmental Issues, and Changes
- R12 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Size and Spatial Distributions of Regional Economic Activity; Interregional Trade (economic geography)
- O4 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity
StatisticsAccess and download statistics
All material on this site has been provided by the respective publishers and authors. You can help correct errors and omissions. When requesting a correction, please mention this item's handle: RePEc:cai:rerarc:reru_051_0003. See general information about how to correct material in RePEc.
For technical questions regarding this item, or to correct its authors, title, abstract, bibliographic or download information, contact: (Jean-Baptiste de Vathaire). General contact details of provider: http://www.cairn.info/revue-d-economie-regionale-et-urbaine.htm .
If you have authored this item and are not yet registered with RePEc, we encourage you to do it here. This allows to link your profile to this item. It also allows you to accept potential citations to this item that we are uncertain about.
We have no references for this item. You can help adding them by using this form .
If you know of missing items citing this one, you can help us creating those links by adding the relevant references in the same way as above, for each refering item. If you are a registered author of this item, you may also want to check the "citations" tab in your RePEc Author Service profile, as there may be some citations waiting for confirmation.
Please note that corrections may take a couple of weeks to filter through the various RePEc services.


text:
It's time for the UK to become a real democracy in which votes match seats.
The UK's voting system is a tragic mess. FPTP inflates the support of the two largest parties while diluting support of smaller players. It limits voter choice at the ballot box - and at constituency surgeries - and leads to minority rule. Furthermore, its proponents say results in strong and stable governments, but in 2010, there was a hung parliament. In 2015, the Tories managed a small majority, but two years later the system crashed again. Even under its own criteria, the system is a failure.
Proportional representation in some form must be achieved as soon as possible.
But how?
Any election outcome involving a Conservative-led government will result in the status-quo. However, it is worth continuously making the argument that the Scottish Tories' success in Holyrood is resultant of the Additional Member System, as well as pointing out that there is in fact a group called "Conservative Action for Electoral Reform". Furthermore, my colleague Matt Gillow recently wrote an excellent piece for Make Votes Matter outlining the Conservative case for PR.
Putting that to one side, there are two options.
One is to get Labour to support proportional representation in some form and hope it is implemented if they achieve a majority. A significant minority of Labour MPs already back reform. Politics Home even reported in 2016 that Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell called on Jeremy Corbyn to back PR. Furthermore, a joint Labour Campaign for Electoral Reform and Make Votes Matter report highlights the significant share of Labour MPs who back reform, as well as the Labour case for change.
However, if Labour were to get a majority following endorsing PR – perhaps even a massive one – they could fall into the Blair-Trudeau trap.
Following the 1997 election, the Jenkins Commission was set-up to look at reforming the UK's voting system. The eventual report backed AV+, but change was never implemented. Once Tony Blair had a colossal majority, why would he threaten that? Almost two decades later, the Liberals' Justin Trudeau won a significant majority in Canada's House of Commons. His party went from third to first place and was elected on the back of a pledge to reform Canada's outdated FPTP voting system. But he too has gone back on that promise.
A PR-backing Labour majority could end up implementing change, but there is a serious risk that it fail to deliver, especially if Corbyn plans on radically transforming Britain over the course two or three parliaments.
The best option is therefore a Labour-led hung parliament. Whether or not Labour formally backs PR, this is still the best outcome as there is a significant minority of Labour MPs who back electoral reform. With this in mind, the Liberal Democrats, the SNP and the Greens would be in a fantastic position to secure PR while also being part of a progressive alliance within the chamber.
Of course, much will depend on the parliamentary arithmetic, but this would create the right climate for change.
PR is within our grasp and Labour holds the key.
We are long overdue real representative democracy; it's time for reform.
Have something to tell us about this article?


text:
As part of the ReMarkAble series at First Baptist Church, I will be releasing weekly posts with my notes for those who are using the Studying the Gospels Together (STGT) method in their Adult Community Group. You can read more about the STGT Method here and how this site is integrating the ReMarkAble series here.
Introductory Comments
In the second chapter of Mark's gospel, there is a cluster of four stories known as pronouncement stories, or sometimes also known as conflict or controversy stories. There is actually a fifth within this cluster as well, which begins the third chapter. We see Jesus heal the paralytic (2:1-12), call Levi and share a meal with tax collectors and sinners (2:13-17), Jesus teaching on fasting and old vs. new (2:18-22), questions about picking grain on the Sabbath (2:23-28) and healing on the Sabbath (3:1-6). Each of these stories puts Jesus at odds with the pharisees or other religious leaders of the day. Further, each of these stories tells us something about who Jesus is and why he came. In each of these stories, there is typically a climactic point where Jesus makes some sort of pronouncement. For example, when Jesus heals the paralytic, the actual act of healing and statement that accompanies the act are so that "you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins (2:10 ESV)." As you study, look for the climactic statements, it will help you understand the primary message of each pronouncement story.
Things to Note
In the STGT Method, we begin by noting five different activities of Jesus.
(P) Prayer
There is no specific reference to Jesus praying in this chapter.
(W) Reads or references God's Word
(2:2) The setting for the paralytic man being healed is Jesus teaching from God's Word to a packed room of people. It is important to note that Jesus came to teach and preach as well as heal and restore - they are often linked together in Mark's Gospel. Jesus has a message he wants to communicate, we are now ambassadors of that message and God's Word is an integral part of what Jesus wants people to hear.
(F) Relates to God the Father
(2:12) Jesus does not interact directly with God the Father in this chapter, but we do see Jesus' actions bring glory and praise to the Father. Jesus wants to glorify the Father (John 7:17-18, 12:28), and we see it happening here.
(HS) Relates to the Holy Spirit
We do not see Jesus directly relating to the Holy Spirit in this chapter.
(R) Overflows in loving relationship with people
This will be the most common category we see. Jesus is constantly interacting with people through his teaching, preaching, healing, casting out demons, or discipleship. I will not list all possible ways that this is seen in this chapter, but only mention a few.
(2:1-12) Jesus overflows in loving relationship throughout the entire paralytic story. First, he is teaching people from God's Word. It is a loving thing for Jesus to spread the message we so desperately need to hear. Jesus then forgives the sins of the paralytic (2:5) and then heals him (2:11-12). This story is packed with ways Jesus overflows in loving relationship.
(2:13-17) Here is another story that is packed with ways Jesus loves people. First, he invites Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him. Levi would have been an outcast to the Jewish people, but Jesus looks past his transgressions and calls Levi to Himself. Then we see Jesus sharing a meal with tax collectors and sinners. This would have been a significant violation of cultural norms and purity laws. Jesus is not concerned with those things. He is changing the dignity of a person, and inviting people to follow Him. Jesus is not made dirty by spending time with these people, they are made clean by spending time with Jesus.
Questions for Reflection
What does this passage tell us about who Jesus is?
In chapter two, Jesus' identity is being further clarified. The first chapter was already leading us toward seeing that Jesus is God, and chapter two only furthers that claim. The story of the paralytic is a great example. After Jesus declares the mans sins forgiven, the question comes forward, "Who can forgive sins but God alone? (2:7)" This question preempts the answer. Jesus responds by suggesting that while forgiveness is hard to measure and easier to fake, because it is unseen, physically healing a person is more visible and therefore great evidence that Jesus has authority to both forgive and to heal. Jesus proceeds to heal the paralytic man as evidence that he also has authority to forgive sins. If only God can forgive sins, and we see Jesus forgiving sins, the only logical conclusion is that Jesus is God.
Another claim to Jesus' identity and authority comes in the questions about picking grain on the Sabbath. Jesus claims that he is :"lord even of the Sabbath (2:28)." Once again, making a statement about the kind of person he is and authority he has.
What does this passage tell us about why Jesus came?
In this chapter, there is one statement that shines forward in regard to why Jesus came. At the end of the story of Jesus calling Levi and then sharing a meal with tax collectors and sinners, Jesus says "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners (2:17)." Given the context of the statement, and who Jesus is talking with, I take the word "righteous" to mean self-righteous. Those who believe they are righteous enough to attain God's favor on their own. Jesus has come for those in need, and self-righteous people don't think they have any need at all. The incredible part of this story though, is not the confrontation with the pharisees as much as the message that anyone and everyone can come to Jesus. He invites all people to follow him. It doesn't matter if you are a tax collector, sinner, social outcast, scoundrel, down-and-outer, or scum of the earth. Jesus came for them - he came for you! But we do need to follow-him, which will require all of us. Jesus invites all types of people to follow him, but he requires all parts of the people who do.
What does it say about what it means to follow Jesus?
There is a lot in this chapter that can inform our following of Jesus. First, I think we need to recognize our need for Jesus, because he came for sinners and not the self-righteous. Do you recognize your need for him? Second, if we follow Jesus, then we need to be prepared to invite all types of people to follow him. Jesus did not put limits on who could or could not follow him, only that they recognized their need. We should not put limits either. Those are just two ways, can you think of others?
Questions for Application
The questions for application will change with each person. I have given a few comments below about how we should think about answering them, but it will be highly dependent upon each individual person and how God is stirring in their hearts based on their own study and reflection.
In response to what you have read, what is one action step you believe God is calling you to make this week?
The answers to these questions are very subjective to the person answering them. Try to consider what it means to follow Jesus, and ask yourself what is one practical way you can respond to what you have read, learned and discussed.
One suggestion might be to be more aware of the way you see other people. Do you put limits on who God might invite to follow Jesus? Take account of your own perception of who can or cannot follow Jesus this week.
Another suggestion might be to consider your own sin and need for Jesus. Do you recognize how good Jesus is, and how much you need him?
What is one thing you learned this week you could share with someone else? Who do you plan to share it with?
This question is meant to simply help us learn how to share what we are learning from Jesus. We do not need to feel the burden of sharing everything we know about Jesus in every conversation we have, but it can be more natural to share something we are learning. What is something you learned that you could share with someone else? Think about who you might want to share it with.


text:
You can delay or stop items in the startup folder, or registry run keys for the current user ('you'). The "Buy Now" is for the PRO edition that allows you to delay for All Users; HOWEVER, you NEVER need to pay money to use this program! It is free for you to use forever. Customized program groups for access via the system tray, with the ability to run all or just one item in the group. Customizable startup modes. Can be 'never', 'if delayed items exist', 'always for me', 'always for everyone' Multi-language menus and forms (providing text files exist for them). You can customize the delay before programs are run, and the delay time in between programs being run. Items in the tree view are in bold if a known safe (legitimate) program. Right-Click access to Google for program information.
|File Size
|Operating System
|Windows Windows XP Windows 98 Windows Me Windows 2000
|System Requirements
|Windows 98/Me/2000/XP


text:
Things to Know When Buying a Used Car
Make sure you check the brand power. There are different safe and dependable brands in the market. There are better brands that are known for their quality, dependability and low fuel consumption. This is seen in different brands that are known to one of the world-class cars even if they are second hand they can still push you for some time.
When buying used car you should give complete mechanical inspection. This is more than standard checking and carrying test drive it requires the skills of an expert. With his knowledge and skills he will do comprehensive review and point out all the faults that the car has. Because of his experience and knowledge he can point out problems instantly. Crash damage, corrosion, fluid leaks, engine problem, hidden frame damage and others are some of the defects the mechanic can see. It is recommended that you involve a mechanic to carry out inspection to prevent difficulties with the car after buying.
When buying a used car you should check the vehicle history report. Car history report includes the people who have used it, title status, commercial record, accidents caused and other reports that you are not aware of. The Car fax has the capability of providing car history report by the use of VIN number. As You will be kept off from buying a car with bad history. This will prevent you from losing your vehicle and your money.
It is advisable that you research first. It is important that you carry out some research on the best vehicle models, look at their prices, fuel consumption, durability, the agencies selling used cars, some of the features they possess . It will be necessary since you will have enough knowledge when you meet the merchant.
Car rental companies are the best places to buy used vehicles. The benefit of buying a used car with car rental agencies is because the driving force behind their cars is always in good condition . The engine may be perfect even if the body looks dented or destroyed. The possibility of getting a new vehicle with them is high since they sell their cars after 2-3 years of usage.
You should take your time when you want to purchase a car. This will prevent you from the purchase of a good car. Take your time to shop around as you look for better ones. Don't stop searching because you have found a better one keep searching you will find the best. Make sure that the car undergoes all the tests before you finally buy it.
It is also important that you check credit history and of the dealer too. If you have a bad credit history you will have to pay more for the loans.


text:
- Eagles Tribute Night
23rd February 2019
7:30 pm - 11:55 pm
The Alter Eagles are an experienced, authentic Eagles tribute band. Formed in 2003, they perform the whole repertoire of Eagles tracks, from tasteful country rock – complete with full harmonies – through to hard rocking numbers, showcasing the Eagles' trademark duelling electric guitars.
Lauded for their accuracy, the Alter Eagles are a tribute to the Eagles, pure and simple and in a typical two hour set play many of the band's greatest hits, including Hotel California, Desperado, Life In The Fast Lane, How Long, Lyin' Eyes, Take It Easy and One Of These Nights.
To find out more about the band visit their website by CLICKING HERE.
"What a fantastic gig at the Komedia. I honestly enjoyed it far more than seeing the real thing at Twickenham a few years ago. Rock on!" ~ Sarah Fisher Morgan
"The whole band were individually brilliant and excellent as a piece. A great set choice too. See you again" ~ Mark Butterfield
Tickets for this night of amazing music are just £15 and include fantastic live performance from The Alter Eagles,Disco and Buffet Supper!
Venue: Oake Manor


text:
Survey Over Willingness to Buy Domestic Products
EghtesadOnline: More than 63.9% of Iranians are willing to purchase locally-made products provided they have satisfactory quality and reasonable prices, a survey conducted by Iranian Students' Polling Agency showed.
According to the findings of the survey conducted earlier this month, 25.1% of the participants said they would buy Iranian products no matter what, 9.4% said they prefer foreign products over locally-produced ones under any circumstances and 1.5% had no comment, the Persian Daily Donya-e-Eqtesad reported. The most popular category for domestically-made products was foodstuff with 91% of the participants voting for it and the least popular was electronic and home appliances group with only 31.5% of the respondents voting for it. In a bid to help make the domestic economy more self-sufficient, Iranian authorities have selected the motto of "Support for Iranian Products" in the new Iranian year that started on March 21, according to Financial Tribune.


text:
Using the unemployment rate increasing and also the cost for each products growing, finding a method to pay the bills has become more and more difficult. The Worldwide Work Organizing reported greater than 197 million people globally are unemployed this year. That's roughly 6% from the world's workforce with no viable way of earnings.
Hi, Wes Pierre here and I am here to let you know that locating a real job in the current economy just grew to become as simple as pushing a control button.
If you're searching for any real job whether that could be a part-time job, full-time job, summer job, or perhaps a work from home job then your first factor you must do would be to believe that exist a job. Without that positive mentality, then every job the application of for and do not get will undoubtedly drag your moral lower and discourage you.
After you have that positive mindset, then you have to be ready to look for a job. I have using the liberty to publish a couple of job sites aside to assist together with your search.
Trying to get a job can invariably appear just like a hectic and confusing process. So to be able to take some confusion from it, I have created a couple of simple ideas to help you on the way.
First- you must have a resume ready. A resume is really a document that provides employers details about only you encounters for example special skills, achievements and education. You may be probably the most gifted part of the world and have the experience to perfectly fill a job if your resume doesn't catch employers' attention, then you'll never get the opportunity to demonstrate it or perhaps be observed. Asides from poor spelling and grammar the greatest mistake that individuals make when writing resumes is they really re-write the job description their trying to get. Employers don't wish to understand what the job description is. They would like to understand what qualifies you for that job. To learn to write an effective job description you need to consider you skill for the employer.
After you have your resume setup or perhaps without having a resume ready, then what you ought to do to obtain your name available. Many people are not fortunate enough to possess a job land directly on their lap. If they're then that's great, as throughout us, we have to perform some groundwork. Sure we're able to get out there and find different places which are hiring but odds are we will not be encountering that lots of job possibilities. We have to expand our horizon to check out jobs that people may not find simply by going for a stroll lower our neighborhood. The best method of doing that's by searching online and putting you r name available. I've come up with a summary of top search engines like google which makes putting your company name available and locating a job easy.
Indeed.com is among the best sources for locating job listing fast. Indeed uses a large number of web sites to compile countless job listings. Jobs search could be saved as email alerts so new jobs could be delivered constantly.
Knowing what you're searching for, then simply just Hired may be the job internet search engine for you personally. Even if you're unsure what you would like, searching by category or browse by job title, company or location. Simply Hired provides you with data about local job market too your area's employment and economy statistics.
LinkUp is really a secret internet search engine that gives you hidden jobs from company web sites. LinkUp publishes job opening round the country and provide real job possibilities. It offers awesome features to help you find jobs though their sites in addition to store your preferred job searches.
Monster lists jobs from hourly jobs to jobs that you simply supply you with a career. After you have your resume setup, Monster enables you to definitely publish up in addition to provide you with career advice and company and salary information.
CareerBuilder is probably the top job sites. It pulls ads from newspapers to supply local in addition to national job listings. Instead of you looking through numerous newspaper ads, this website does that for you personally.


text:
Episode 7 - Trial-Based Functional Analyses
Lambert, J.M., Bloom, S.E., & Irvin, J. (2012). Trial-based functional analysis and functional communication training in an early childhood setting. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 45, 579-584. doi: 10.1901/jaba.2012.45-579
Austin, J.L, Groves, E.A., Reynish, L.C., & Francis, L.L. (2015). Validating trial-based functional analyses in mainstream primary school classrooms. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 48, 274-288. doi: 10.1002/jaba.208


text:
Warren Law, P.C.
Call Today: (512) 769-3595
Warren Law, P.C. is proud to present our quarterly newsletter. If you would like to receive an email copy of our quarterly newsletters,
please email firstname.lastname@example.com or click here.
Please use the pull down menu under the left side bar to select a newsletter. Our archive of newsletters are available 2010 through the present edition.


text:
Ileke & Love: How He Asked
If you follow me on instagram, I'm sure you know by now I am engaged! My fiancé, Gabe and I have been engaged since July 9th 2016 and we couldn't be more excited! The proposal was both a surprise and something I had been expecting. Not too long after we started dating, we began to talk about the future, marriage, and children. Early on we also did this awesome Love Quiz from The New York Times, The 36 Questions That Lead to Love. It was a great way of getting to know each other a bit more intimately and knowing that we could be vulnerable with the other person really let us know we could trust one another.
They Way We We Met
We met Labor Day Weekend 2015 through our mutual friend Tobi. Tobi and I had made plans earlier that week to go to One Eyed Betty's for a bottomless mimosa brunch, and Tobi asked if his friend Gabe could join us. I arrived at the restaurant early and immediately noticed when an extremely, attractive, guy walked in. I was pleasantly surprised when he walked up to me and introduced himself as Gabe. We enjoyed a lovely brunch full of laughter and good conversation. The next few weeks Tobi kept suggesting that we all hang out together and the more time Gabe and I spent together, the more we learned we had in common. We both come from similar backgrounds, share common interests, and felt at ease with one another. After weeks of getting to know each other, Gabe finally asked me over to his place so that we could cook dinner together. Though things didn't go smoothly and we almost caught his kitchen on fire, we were both able to laugh through it, and have a great time. It didn't take long for both of us to realize we had met someone truly special, someone we could lean on in tough times and who was open and excited to build a future together.
How He Asked
Gabe and I always joke that we can't keep secrets from one another. We moved in together last April, and pretty much knew we were going to get married at that point. Gabe let me pick the ring I wanted, so I gave him a few suggestions. He went ahead and ordered the ring and though I knew a proposal was coming sometime soon, he was still planning to surprise me. However Heidi Gibson, our engagement ring designer, is so amazing that the ring came a lot earlier than Gabe expected. Our mail person left a note on the door the day it was delivered saying it was at the post office, and that a signature was required to receive the package. It just happened to be one of the days I came home earlier than Gabe and I immediately saw Heidi's name on the note! Gabe's original plan was ruined but he still gave me a super sweet proposal. He did romantic things all week leading up to it like buying flowers and cooking dinner each night (which he normally does anyway). He then proposed one warm July night on a hike after dinner, with the beautiful ring 💍 Though it wasn't the surprise proposal a lot of people would expect, it was perfect for the two of us.


text:
If you are a reader of business literature, especially profiles of people making a good go at a business career, then you've also read that these same people likely commit efficiency sins. They don't see it that way, however, often talking about their ruthless commitment to efficiency as a virtue. Efficiency sins: Compromising one's current quality of life through time/process management, intending to obtain a future and higher quality of life.
An efficiency sin looks like this:
- Scheduling too tightly. Doing this prevents the business leader from being present in the meeting they are already in. Whatever they are doing, they are already distracted by the next meeting or something that comes even later, or the next e-mail, phone call or task awaiting them, instead of bringing their best attention and mental resources to the moment they are in.
- Wolfing food. Some have even wondered out loud whether a nutritional infusion or diet of nutritionally perfect bars might work better than taking times for meals, let alone a meal they prepare for themselves or their families. Stopping to enjoy food is seen as harmful to the work output to which they aspire.
- Pride in a lack of adequate rest. It is no secret that while it might seem a show of ambition and drive, there are long-term consequences that come from sleep deprivation. Those long-term consequences impede enjoyment and the quality of life being pursued for some years hence by foregoing nourishing and healing rest all along.
- Work first. While doing hard tasks first before easy tasks or pursuing leisure is a good personal discipline, forsaking time with one's key relationships in order to do the work that keeps multiplying in the wake of success is not. Successful work multiplies opportunity beyond the capacity of any one person to cover it all. In the end, a work first priority that sacrifices participation in family and community ruins one's quality of life and leaves people alone and lonely.
Most people pursuing efficiency sins as if they were virtues have a declared purpose: to gather enough money so they can do what they want…later. And yet, quality of life items are abundant already and all along, surrounding us whether we are efficient or not. In fact, they beg us to stop and enjoy.
- One can enjoy an abundance of inexpensive picnics with their loved ones, rather than working extra hours in order to cover the cost of exclusive dining at a future time.
- Frisbee golf at any number of free or low-cost courses, with family and friends, adds to the quality of life way more than yet one more corporate golf outing. Other outdoor games like croquet can be just as fun.
- Reading a book or journal article on one's own porch can trigger deeper learning and more personal growth than traveling to yet one more seminar with day long supplemental workshops, or worse, working so hard and furiously that no learning takes place at all. And naps come with them!
As a former Chief Efficiency Sinner myself, deep insight for this came to me when my son and I were kayaking on a public waterway, through a championship golf course. Our kayaks, combined, cost less than one set of green fees. We would enjoy for years what the golfers were spending in hours. I was with my son, they were with business contacts. Insight dawned in that moment.
The point here has nothing to do with expensive green fees or to denigrate the importance of networking. The point is life priorities and whether they are being lived, or are sacrificed in a joy-sucking commitment to efficiency, something I've transgressed repeatedly over the course of my own life.
Passion, commitment and drive are needed to succeed in business. And, they need to be pointed to the right ends.
- Understanding success as something other than an amount of money. The quality of one's relationships, for instance.
- Sleeping well rather than sleeping less.
- Serving customers/clients as human beings—as neighbors we love better than ourselves—more than just landing the next deal.
- Enjoyment of the abundance of all things rather than measuring all things against personal financial success.
- Contributing to others and their flourishing rather than consuming others for our own selfish ends. Measuring our journey by our traveling companions rather than the accumulation of frequent flier miles.
Bigger is not necessarily better. Growth built on the sins of efficiency is like gaining muscle through steroid use. You might be bigger, but also grouchy, aggressive, and sliding toward impotence. It isn't natural. It certainly isn't healthy. Even if it brings a win for now, devastating loss will follow eventually.


text:
Fake Followers are Useless
Fake social media fans. They're a plague that have long eaten away at the legitimacy of many major brands on Twitter, Facebook and Yelp. Following Facebook's announcement in early August that they would be tightening security on the network, thousands of duplicate profiles, profiles for animals and spammers have suddenly disappeared from the network. Some business pages lost hundreds of thousands of likes overnight as a result of the new standards. While we can't speak for every brand, we're glad that Facebook is taking a step towards making social media more of a network we can trust, and here's why:
1. It Filters Out the Spammers
According to Facebook's own estimate, around 1.5% of all members are objectionable and were created with the sole purpose of disregarding at least one of Facebook's Conditions and Agreement Terms. In layman's terms, that means they're spammers and Facebook is actively working to shut them down as soon as possible. Treatment of these problematic members is pretty harsh once they've been asked to leave - if your account is permanently disabled by Facebook, you have to formally request permission before you can return.
2. It's Better for Business
Facebook's recent actions really aren't about picking on anyone - not even the companies who have lost nearly 200,000 in the past 48 hours. It's more about keeping Facebook a trustworthy platform for companies, according to the network. Gartner research analyst Brian Blau states the network is just trying to stop Facebook from becoming a ghost town of fake profiles and spam.
3. It Even Protects You
Even if your company has earned Facebook likes the hard way, through really innovative social media campaigns or outstanding visual content, there's a chance you, too could see a dip in followers over time. BBC Technology Correspondent Rory Cellan-Jones ran an experiment back in June 2012 to see just how many fans he could earn for a fake business page titled "Virtual Bagels" through Facebook advertising. He gained 3,000 followers in 4 days, a large percentage of whom were apparently fake consumers from outside the US or UK with little activity other than following brands.
These fake followers won't purchase your product, comment on your content or share statuses within their own networks. They offer no value other than adding some "legitimacy" to your brand. While your percentage of fake followers will largely depend on where you've targeted ads, the good news is that brands who haven't actively purchased likes shouldn't see a significant loss of likes in the coming weeks.
4. It Protects Consumers
As humans, we're wired to rely on word of mouth. In our digital age, social media reviews count big. A study by University of California, Berkeley found that restaurants noticed an increase in reservations with just an extra half star rating! Due to the fact that social media reviews work, some companies have turned to offering rewards for positive ratings or even more concerning - paying professional reviewers to leave fake, glowing comments. Gartner research has estimated that by 2014, a full 10% of online reviews will be fake. The Facebook network has always been a community based on real, verified identities - something difficult to prove and maintain online. If the social media network manages to make it difficult for companies to hide real feedback, it's going to protect consumers from purchased feedback.
5. Social Media Can Become Currency
Marketing visionary Seth Godin has long-predicted that social credibility may matter more than cash in the future: "Debit cards will be tied-in directly to your social media accounts. Loan approvals will be dictated by your Klout Scores. Yes, this is the beginning of the end for the dollar as we know it."
It seems the future is closer than we think, particularly following the mid-September announcement that Bank of Americas would be partnering with the US government and the National Business Stimulus Association to start working on a plan in which small and medium-sized businesses could use their social media reach as a substitute for cold hard cash. Companies who were struggling to repay loans could maintain positive credit just based on their sheer number of followers.
The announcement was exciting, but it left quite a few of the smartest marketers we know, including Dan Moyle and Marcus Sheridan, downright puzzled. It was an unfortunate reality that social media followers just wasn't a sufficiently reliable metric to cash in on. If a company needed an additional 5,000 Twitter followers to avoid action on a defaulted loan, what was going to stop them? If Facebook's steps inspire Twitter to similar action metric, we're excited to watch as social credits become increasingly value. Maybe in the future, you can eat a Facebook like!
image credit: stuart miles/freedigitalphotos.net


text:
We are back with David Kimball, CEO of Prosper for part 2 of our series covering marketplace lending. In case you missed it check out part 1 here! One thing that I want to stress after discussing many of the challenges Prosper and the P2P markets have been facing head on for the past couple of years is that the future economic opportunity for these organizations is bright.
After having an opportunity to sit down with David I left feeling energized and excited about the days ahead. It's his humbleness, and just as much his confidence in Prosper's approach to building a business for the long term, that reassured me that the news you may read neglects to see the longer term picture.
Profitability is imminent, and opportunity is abound for an organization that has had its ups and downs, but is finally finding its footing and is headed for a positive trajectory. Check out some of the highlights of where Prosper is headed in the days ahead thanks to the creative and talented team that is working tirelessly to change the lending markets for the better!
CL: Entering as CEO at Prosper during November of 2016 likely wasn't easy. 2016 was a challenging year in the headlines for marketplace lending, but how have you worked to set the direction of the organization and keep the noise out?
DK: The benefit of being here through 2016 is that it enforced to me that we had the right mission and company focus for a long-term trajectory.
We had to make a lot of tough decisions in 2016, but by the fourth quarter I felt confident that we were back on track. July of 2016 was our lowest month of originations and we've been growing on a month over month basis since then, and doing it in a much more sustainable way than we'd done it previously. By the time we reached the end of the first quarter of this year, I looked around at the collective team and said "Look at what we've been able to accomplish."
We've been playing not to lose for the last 12 months. Now we are playing to win.
CL: And winning you are doing. Prosper recently announced a major securitization across some major investors. What do you think attracted them to Prosper?
DK: When you think about the securitization, it's really the same motivation that drives the people and institutional investors who buy loans directly from us through our platform. It's the same concept. This is an attractive, short duration asset class. The securitization just lets us expand our investor base.
CL: How do you see Prosper and others in this industry building out service capabilities in order to prevent the commoditization of the space where it all comes down to competing on price?
DK: I think the space will always be a commodity. Loans have been around forever, and investment opportunities very similar. As a borrower, you want to find that lowest price loan, and as an investor you have a competing desire, you want to have that highest return. The ability to manage that is really a commodity.
What we need to do is continue to embrace technology and make the experience so intuitive, so human centered, that people flock to it. As demand grows, pricing will be driven down for the borrowers, which is exactly what we want. We want to provide people with better access to credit at a lower price and give access to the investors. The best thing we can do is to make it easier and more efficient for both sides of that equation.
CL: Does Prosper have plans to add additional loan products in the near term, be it auto loans, mortgages, etc.? Are any of these more attractive than others when thinking about entering new product categories?
DK: Our focus right now is on the asset that we have, because as I said, we can do an even better job at what we're doing right now. As far as what could be next, I'd say look at the banking system and consider what products are the most painful for the consumer, take the longest, and are the most intensive. Those are the ones that end up being prime opportunities for "disruption." It's an overused word, but it's true. Before we push into new products, we need to make sure that we've proven ourselves on the existing asset class.
CL: There are several SaaS startups offering "marketplace lending" type solutions to SME banks. Do you look at the proliferation of tools to mimic marketplace lending as a threat to, or rather as a validation of your business model?
DK: I think it's a natural evolution of the space. Part of the reason this started 10 years ago was that online access wasn't something that was common. Additionally, the unsecured personal loan space is an area where banks have not traditionally put a lot of their investment, for good reason. There are other places for them to spend a lot of their focus and their time, and probably for a better return. When you see others begin to lean into the space, you realize that they understand that it's worth the investment. Certainly, it's a validation in that regard.
Really, by having more groups in the space, I think it makes the industry better overall. You see better technology because there are more people thinking about what can be done to make it better, but ultimately it benefits the consumer. Whether they go to us or to Bank XYZ, they have an opportunity to have a better experience than they had four or five years ago. They hopefully have an opportunity to access lower cost credit, and on the investor side they now have access to a new investment class with a great return, as a result of bringing technology into a space that hadn't been invested in in the past.
CL: As a CEO something you probably face daily is how to grow the business in a market that is heating up while finding ways to be cost efficient. What has been your approach to managing this challenging proposition?
DK: We reduced our growth in 2016 in order to make sure we were focused on sustainability. If you look at the market correction that took place last year, I think ultimately it was a good thing for the industry, because it allowed us to take a pause. As we've grown since July of last year, the growth certainly has been at a decent pace, but it is probably at a slower pace than had historically been seen in this space. Now, when we look at growth, we ask ourselves if this is the right kind of growth. We want to make sure that it's sustainable and repeatable.
In the second quarter, we were able to generate cash at a lower volume that we've seen at our high-point. I'd rather have us have a slower pace of growth, but do it at a sustainable level. This gives us the ability to determine how we invest it and gives us more control of our own destiny.
The Minute Rundown with David Kimball
CL: If you could provide one tip to someone considering being the CEO of a startup or high-growth business like this, what would it be?
DK: If it was in the P2P space specifically, I'd say come work with us. We're looking to embrace new technologies that will help us innovate and differentiate ourselves in the industry so we can get back to being more of a disruptor. If you've got better ideas and that's the reason you want to start in this space, we're open to those new ideas. We can do this better and we know it. So, at the end of the day, I'd say, "Come join us."
CL: If you could model yourself after one founder, who would it be and why?
DK: I was told early in my career, when you're in marketing, don't sponsor one athlete, but sponsor a group. If you sponsor one athlete you're exposed to the pros and cons of that individual, and so I think the same thing goes on the founder side. I don't model myself after one, but try to take various learnings from those that I admire.
One thing that I love about certain founders is the passion and ownership that they bring to the business. The fact that no matter what, they want to see this great idea come to fruition, and they want to see people embrace it. I love even more those founders who continue to see that company through growth vs. those that tap out when there's a good amount of money to be made. They see it through because the vision and their commitment to it remains the same. As we look at this company, we want to make sure that we have a founder's culture. We want to make sure that we're in this for our customers, that we're in this because we want to make this space better. That's the passion I love from what I've seen in the founders in this area.
In Closing:
Walking through the Prosper office after our discussion continued to shed light on what this organization is building. From data scientists to marketing strategists, the future of lending and access to better credit products lies in the hands of a group of individuals who may not have been your traditional bankers back in the day.
What organizations like Prosper are doing is breathing life into a lending industry that was fraught with stale market tactics, predatory lending practices and an old boys club way of doing things. This new group of individuals taking an innovative approach to an old-school business is invigorating to see.
And sure Prosper went through its bumps in 2016, but what David said on our way out is that what ended up happening was the individuals who stuck around are really the ones who want to see this through and who truly believe in innovating the lending markets. With a tighter focus, stability from the top, and a passionate group of individuals I have a great deal of confidence that Prosper is positioned well to spur truly Simple.Innovative.Change
Thanks David, and the whole Prosper team for your vision and commitment to the future of financial services.


text:
Could your home use a bit of extra curb appeal? Your home's exterior is like the cover of a book, setting the stage for what's inside. And whether you're interested … Continue reading "16 Easy Ways to Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal"
Tag: design tips
14 Tips for Decorating a Small Space
Just because you don't have a huge home doesn't mean you can't flaunt your style. Decorating a small space, just like decorating a large one, simply requires ingenuity of design … Continue reading "14 Tips for Decorating a Small Space"


text:
Birth of the Dragon (HD/UV)
- This is an ultraviolet bluray code that should redeem in HD/HDX
- We do not in any way guarantee the format (SD or HD) of any title. The studio will set redeeming rights which we have no control over. We list them from the type of media they were removed from
- All codes are USA only and may not work in other countries
Set against the backdrop of 1960s San Francisco, BIRTH OF THE DRAGON is a modern take on the classic movies that Bruce Lee was known for. It takes its inspiration from the epic and still controversial showdown between an up-and-coming Bruce Lee and kung fu master Wong Jack Man - a battle that gave birth to a legend


text:
Recommended by 100%
31 User photos
Vicky · Married on 09/16/2017
I don't even know where to start! My husband and I had our wedding reception September 16, 2017 and it was absolutely perfect. This place is AMAZING. They exceeded all of my hopes and dreams. The staff was SO attentive and helpful all night long, not just to me and my husband but to ALL the guests! The food was absolutely delicious. My guests still talk about how amazing the food was, and just how it was basically the best wedding they've ever been to! I promise you will not be disappointed in choosing this beautiful venue. Wish I could relive that day over and over again!! Thanks again for making my wedding day the best party ever and the best day of my life !Sent on 10/11/2017
-Vicky & Steve Cohen
Hermaine. · Married on 08/08/2019
Best venue !!
The staff were very attentive to our needs and also to the guests. Great food, open bar, beautiful venue! Couldn't ask for it any other way!Sent on 08/13/2019
Navine · Married on 07/07/2019
Dream come true
This was a dream come true! My wedding was amazing! Everyone at Sand Castle made me and my husband feel so special! Muhammad is awesome! He made sure everything went well. Emily is truly fantastic! She was so good at making sure I was picture ready.Helping along the way, down the aisle, making sure I ate and much more. She is truly amazing! Sand Castle team is so fantastic! Hands down the best wedding venue ever.Sent on 07/11/2019
Nancy Jean-Simon · Married on 05/05/2019
Wedding at Sand Castle
Exceptional service & team!! The venue is absolutely stunning. Loula & Moe made my wedding experience memorable. They were phenomenal from the start of planning.Sent on 05/19/2019
Heather Erica · Married on 04/13/2019
Amazing experience and detail
We had our wedding at the Sand Castle, the best venue ever! All of the food was amazing (yes, we got to eat) and we had so much fun! Everyone was taken care of, and there was so much detail!Sent on 05/05/2019
Karey Fung · Married on 09/15/2018
Dream wedding!
Love this venue ❤ They made my dream come true! What a fairy tale wedding. The food was amazing. The desert station was everyone's favorite. What a great show from the bar tender!Sent on 11/20/2018
Nkosane · Married on 09/09/2018
Sand Castle created the "Circle of Love" theme for our wedding, and it was amazing. Even though it rained, Sand Castle recreated our outdoor garden theme, and brought it inside because of the rain. The Imperial wedding menu comes with seven wonderful entrees. Every food course on the menu was amazing, and the staff was warm, loving, and amazing as well. This was one of the best days of my life. Working with Lola Argyris, Mohamed Kessba, and Dina Vlamakis was an amazing and great experience. The warmest, and professional people you could ever ask for to be in charge over your wedding, at the venue. Making Sand Castle our venue choice for our wedding, turned out to be the "RIGHT" choice/decision we could have ever made!!!!!!!!! #ilovesandcastle #shesfinallycurtisSent on 09/12/2018
Stephanie · Married on 08/25/2018
Sand Castle is truly one of the best venues I have ever been to!!! My husband and I recently got married on August 25, 2018 and we chose Sand Castle as our venue. I can not explain how deeply happy we were that we chose them, I have not even one negative thing to say about them, they are just amazing. They went over and beyond to make our day extremely special. They even put the sugar flowers, that my sister and I made, on our wedding cake for us..and they did it perfectly!! A wedding can be extremely stressful with all the planning and obsessing to get everything perfect, but having Sand Castle as our venue took off so much stress, we are extremely thankful. They took care of anything and everything we wanted, when we had an idea they made it a reality - even better than we could have imagined it! I URGE you to check them out if you are getting married, you will not be disappointed. Dina, Mohamed, and Will are just some of the amazing team they have at Sand Castle working to make your day the most unforgettable, beautiful, blissful day you can truly ever imagine. Even the day of the wedding we had an amazing team, Lucas, Joe my bridal attendant Janin, and all of the amazing waiters all working together to make the day smooth and perfect. Sand Castle also has so much to offer, we used their beautiful centerpieces, added on the unique martini bar (that comes from above the ceiling) with our signature drinks that Sand Castle helped us with, took advantage of the discounted Rolls Royce price they offer to take you anywhere you want for the whole day of the wedding, and we worked with them to create a perfect cocktail hour! All of our guests still can not stop raving about how special that day was. I can go on and on about this venue, because I was truly blown away with their kindness, care, and perfection!! We are so happy we chose Sand Castle for our wedding! <3Sent on 10/04/2018
Leana · Married on 08/05/2018
My husband and I just got married at The Sand Castle on August 5th, 2018 and we can not even describe the wonderful and amazing experience we had. We even say now that we miss it and would do it all over again with the sand castle. Once we stepped in the beautiful venue last June we knew right away that this was the place for us. Loula, Mohamed, and our florist at the sand castle Maria were so so great to work with, they truly felt like family. They really made every effort to make our dream wedding come true. It was all perfect and straight out of a fairytale!! The service was superb and all the staff were very organized, detailed, coordinated, and accommodated all our needs. Maria the sand castle's florist did such an incredible job with our decorations (center pieces, chuppa, menus, table cloths, and chairs) it was so beautiful and very detail oriented, she really took what I have always imagined and created a fairytale garden in which we got married. The food was also sooo amazing and we loved that it was family style, our guests were even able to take their food to go for the next day. I want to thank the sand castle venue especially Loula, Mohammad,Maria and our bridal assistants Patti and Ricky from the bottom of our hearts for all your hard work, effort, and care to create our fairy tale dream wedding. It was everything we have always imagined and more!! Thank you so much and miss you guys already!!Sent on 08/23/2018
Courtney & Jesse · Married on 07/27/2018
We just got married at Sand Castle on 7/27/18. Sand Castle exceeded our expectations! They were absolutely amazing in every way. Our guests cannot stop raving about the service, food, and overall experience they had at our wedding! We wish we could relive our wedding day over and over again due to their exceptional service. I cannot say enough about their attention to detail and quality of service. Will, Mohammed, Joe, Lucas, Joanna, and the whole team were top notch!Sent on 07/30/2018
preeya · Married on 06/10/2018
mike was exceent he took of of us from start to finish . The staff was all on their A gameSent on 06/12/2018
Vanessa · Married on 06/09/2018
Everyone went above and beyond for my wedding!!! From fixing my dress to helping me with anything I needed!! I couldn't have picture a more perfect day and it all too the staff at the sand castle!Sent on 09/10/2018
Angela · Married on 05/11/2018
OMG! We just had our wedding three days ago and we have heard nothing but great things from our guests about our wedding that it was the best they've been to and full of surprises and they could not get over the abundance of food and fun! The Maitre'd and attendants were incredibly amazing. Even our guests said how the staff service was superb. Loula and Moe took care of everything for us in the planning process and made sure everything ran smoothly. We are beyond happy that Sand Castle helped create the wedding of our dreams and much more. I never thought I could have a wedding reception as nice as this one. It was just WOW! From the martini bar with signature drinks, to grand entrance and everything in between, we amazed each and every guest. I'm still in awe of what a great cocktail hour and reception it was. And the vienesse dessert tables-- perfect way to end the night! Thank you to everyone who helped make our day as perfect as it can be! And shout out to Joanna for doing my bustle in under a minute where it would've taken my maid of honors about 10 minutes! LOLSent on 05/14/2018
Marlene · Married on 05/05/2018
Start the process early and exore all options for your special day. The Sand Castle was an amazing venue to work with. My guests, my fiance and I have nothing but wonderful things to say about our overall experience. Moe, Loula, Amanda and Joe were super.Sent on 05/18/2018
Vernita · Married on 04/15/2018
We had our wedding Sunday April 15, 2018 and we are still overwhelmed the absolute best. Our guest are still sending us video and pics . Moe, Jamie, Loula, Joe and the entire staff we can't thank you enough. We went beyond what we could imagine. The food, desserts - martini bar oh my god. The venue is beautiful so classy, Thank you Sand Castle you guys Rock!!! I can't even explain our wedding was the BEST ever. I'm so sad it's over I need a do over. Thanks againSent on 05/14/2018
Sabrina · Married on 10/28/2017
We would like to thank Moe, Will, Jamie and the entire staff at Sand Castle for their exceptional service at our Wedding in October. They were extremely accomodating and made sure everything went smoothly from the moment we went to visit the venue up until our big day. We received so many compliments from the food/dessert served during cocktail hour, reception, and vienesse hour. We're hoping to attend a wedding there as a guest to enjoy the food. Thank You!Sent on 12/21/2017
Melissa · Married on 09/10/2017
We booked our wedding at Sand Castle for September 2017. The service we've received so far has been amazing and professional. We instantly fell in love with the beauty of the venue. We cannot wait for our wedding day to arrive.Sent on 04/19/2016
Erica · Married on 07/28/2017
Just like that it's been five months since our amazing wedding (July 28, 2017). I've been trying to find all the right things to say because I'm still speechless because our wedding was everything we have ever wanted and more.Sent on 01/05/2018
We cannot say enough great things about Sand Castle. From the minute we walked into the venue and met with Loula it felt meant to be. Loula made sure to make our planning process smooth and easy, she answered our hundredths of questions and was very informative. Mohamed (Moe) is the BEST of the best. He went above and beyond to make sure everything we wanted was incorporated into the wedding. We had two ice sculptures (we were so undecided on one) shout out to him for making that happen.
The day of the wedding Sand Castle exceed our expectations. My team for the night was amazing. Huge THANK YOU to these awesome Maitred's (Lukas, Joe) and Bridal Attendants (Joanna , Ricky). Joanna is a jack of all traits, from sewing the train of my dress to sewing my garter, making sure I ate and tending to my every need, she's the bomb!
From the service, hospitality room (started earlier than scheduled), decor, food (cocktail hour, seafood boat, 7main courses), drinks (martini bar, three signature drinks) and dessert hour (12 dessert tables, chocolate fountain and more) my wedding is still talked about to this day. Trust me you will make the right decision picking Sand Castle to make your dream wedding reality. I highly recommend Sand Castle to anyone looking to
Special thanks to Moe for making sure my family got back to the hotel safely.
Thank you to the best VENUE in Long Island!!
Simone · Married on 07/16/2017
My experience was exceptional all of my needs were met. The food was outstanding all of my guest said it was the best wedding they have ever attended. Thank you very much for making my dreams come live. July 16 2017. Mr and Mrs Schultz.Sent on 08/01/2017
Gerardo · Married on 07/14/2017
If your looking to have your wedding just somewhere then keep looking, BUT if you want your wedding to be somewhere AMAZING well then my friend you HAVE to go see Loula, Moe and the entire Sand Castle Staff!Sent on 07/25/2017
Simple put, the service and food was unbelievable!! Coming from a family who owns multiple restaurants on Long Island we know food! The filet migon is by far the best I've ever had at a catering hall by far, and most of our guest said the same.
Their service and attentiveness of the entire staff was simply unremarkable. They all were truly hospitable and professional and go way above and beyond! Joe and Lucas rock!!
The "stressful" process of planing a wedding is completely taken away the minute you sit with Loula and or Moe! They make the process fun and enjoyable.
So if you want your guest's to message or call you two weeks after your wedding to say that the food, ambiance, cocktail hour AND a half, Viennese hour, drinks, service was the best they have been to and better than their wedding then call the Sand Castle Rignt Now!!!!
Carlyne · Married on 06/17/2017
My daughter's wedding was a fairy tale thanks to Mohammed and the Sand's Castle CrewSent on 06/21/2017
Awesome crew
Christina · Married on 06/07/2017
WOW... What can I say I had my wedding here on 06/07/2017 and the attention to detail was off the charts. The food and decor were impeccable. The professionalism was exceptional from viewing the venue to my wedding day. I truly felt like a queen on my special day. I have to say I was truly pleased and till this day my guests are raving about how beautiful my wedding was, how much fun they had and how delicious the food was. It is one of the BEST wedding that have ever attended. My guest had the option of taking leftovers home which was a great idea because the food will not go to waste ( I never attended a wedding reception that offered me that) . The funny thing is Sand Castle was not our original venue I had book another local venue (which I loved) but when thing went south and that was my cue to go . So, I asked my husband if we can look at another venue and Sand Castle was on top of my list. Boy oh boy my husband and I were very pleased. From the minute we step inside I fell in love with the space, Will, Loula and Staff were great. I can't forget about Mohamed he is SUPERB he made sure we had everything in order and was set for the day. He is very nice and pleasant whatever I requested he made sure he was able to deliver it without a doubt. Most importantly, I felt stress free with my wedding and I have the Sand Castle team to thank for that. If I had to do it all over again I would still choose Sand Castle. It was worth every penny and it will always remain #1 in my book. Thanks Again Sand CastleSent on 09/29/2017
You guys rock,
Mr. & Mrs. Narcisse
User5542381 · 2+ years ago
I just booked my wedding at the sand castle for April 2017!!! It was the first place I looked and I really didn't want to go anywhere else. I worked with Will and he took so much time giving us a tour of the place and explaining every detail. The venue is so beautiful and you can't beat the service you receive there. I can't wait til my wedding day!!Sent on 11/05/2015
Diana · Married on 11/12/2016
I can't thank Jamie and Mohammed enough for making our wedding day the most memorable day of our lives. Everything from planning, to the flowers and food was beyond amazing. Our friends can't stop raving about how amazing the food was!! You truly went above and beyond in making my dream wedding a reality. For any bride looking for a venue, I highly encourage you to choose the Sand Castle!!!!Sent on 11/18/2016
User5611781 · 2+ years ago
I just booked my wedding on 9/26/2016 with sand castle. From the tour with Will, who is nothing short of exceptional. He is knowledgeable, understanding, extremely pleasant and the list goes on and on. The venue is absolutely beautiful!!! I left Sand castle knowing that I can have my perfect wedding! I did not want to look anywhere else.Sent on 11/20/2015
By clicking "Request pricing" I agree to sign up and accept WeddingWire's Terms of Use.Write a review


text:
The first is by Nina Allan for her story "The Silver Wind":
Shooter's Hill had a rough reputation. The reforestation policy had returned the place to its original state, and the tract of woodland between Blackheath and Woolwich was now as dense and extensive as it had once been in the years and centuries before the first industrial revolution. The woods were rife with carjackers and highwaymen, and scarcely a week went by without reports of some new atrocity. The situation had become so serious that there were moves in parliament to reinstate the death penalty for highway robbery as it had already been reinstated for high treason. During the course of certain conversations I noticed that local people had taken to calling Oxleas Woods by its old name, the Hanging Wood, although no hangings had occurred there as yet. At least not officially.From this I deduce the story is set in the future, but probably not too far into the future (an alternative reality is another possibility). The place names sound like England. A reforestation policy suggests some kind of ecological decline from which a recovery is in progress. The word "carjackers" tells us there are still cars. There is a certain lawlessness, but still a parliament and harsh penalties for lawlessness.
The phrase "certain conversations" suggests to me that the narrator is involved in subterfuge of some kind. A spy, perhaps. Or is someone well-connected. In any case, the narrator is noticing things not officially recognised. We don't yet know if the narrator is a man or a woman, or have any real sense of where the story might be going. This could all be simply background information with no immediate relevance to anything. But I doubt it; surely we are to learn a lot more about the Hanging Wood.
A lot is being conveyed in not many words. I think I have a good idea what to expect from this story and I am keen to learn more. A possible criticism is that we are being told a lot of information in a fairly static kind of way. But of course this is only the opening sentences and the story might move forward quickly in the next few paragraphs.
The next story is my own "Tell Me Everything":
It was raining the night Sandra died. Remember that, it's important. / I stared at my own handwriting from a year ago. This was written in my own file, not in the official case file because I was not officially allowed to work on the case. / I shook my head, picked up my towel and wiped a layer of sweat from the back of my neck. Stein police house was packed with people, a coiling mist of spores and voices bubbling up through the hot, stuffy air, telling stories of guilt, regret, and denial.The opening sentence is intended to be intriguing from a plot point of view. How did Sandra die? Why was the rain important?
What is the relationship between Sandra and the narrator? We're in a "police house" so is the narrator a policeman? Why was the narrator not allowed to work on the case? What is this "coiling mist of spores" and why does it tell "stories of guilt, regret, and denial." This isn't something that happens in our world. So are we in some kind of alternative reality?
Tethered to the Cold and Dying by Ray Cluley:
Two-Nine is hilly terrain to cross on foot. It's tiring work, and treacherous in the dark, but I have to keep going to charge the kin-gen. Without it, if the batteries die I die with them. Even in full outgear. As it is, I've got regulated temperature, zero grade rads, and a nav-com that crackles too often but is otherwise fine. I can't afford to be without any of it.Immediately we're in very different territory with this one. A place where you need some kind of suit or "outgear" to survive. Probably an alien planet. The title, too, suggests this kind of a harsh/tenuous existence, though perhaps more so for someone other than the narrator? The "kin-gen" is a cool SF notion right off the bat. The narrator must keep moving to charge his suit (I'm cheating and inferring from the illustration that this is a male character), and has to keep going even in the "treacherous" dark.
But is he walking on foot purely to charge the suit or does he have a specific destination in mind? And I wonder, in what way specifically is the terrain treacherous?
Crosstown Traffic by Tim Lees:
I worked for Reuben then, a stubby little tub of a guy from some place unpronounceable; he showed me where it was one time, pointing in the sky up over Houston Street. "Oh yeah," I said, "I see." "Got damn good eyesight then," he told me. Reuben wore a yarmulke, though he obviously wasn't Jewish. "I have a small blowhole in the top of my head like a porpoise," he said. "This keeps it warm." I said, "That's really funny, Rube." He didn't smile, just gave me this peculiar sideways look like I was some sort of an idiot. Well, maybe he was serious. You never knew with these guys. In fact, that's just about the only thing I ever learned in all my time there: that you never, never knew."Houston Street" makes me think this one takes place on Earth, or at least we're on a planet where Earthlings name the streets. But there are aliens too. They come from somewhere you can point to in the sky, but far away. They're not that unlike "us," although difficult to read. And they're doing well; the narrator works for one of them.
The last sentence leaves me unsure of the narrator's perspective in time. Is he/she looking back on events at a much later date? Or merely emphasising that they have been in this place a long time?
As openings go, this one suggests a comedic tone for the story, in a way that none of the others do.
All four stories are first person narratives. I assume this is just random chance rather than any particular bias on the part of the editors. Three of the four are in past tense, one in present tense, though it is always possible that any of the authors may play narrative tricks with this stuff as the story progresses. I think it is true to say that they all have hooks, and they all do something I call "setting out your stall." They give a clear indication of the kind of story they're going to be, right from the start.
At least I think they do. Time will tell.


text:
Join Small Business Majority on June 18 for a webinar to learn how to navigate the federal procurement, purchasing and contracting process to grow revenues for women-owned small businesses.During this webinar, you will hear from veteran business owners Ann and Elizabeth Sullivan of Madison Services Group, Inc. in Washington, D.C., whose combined decades of experience on procurement makes them experts on the subject. This webinar is geared towards established businesses owned by women that have been operating for three or more years with revenue.
A question and answer period will follow.
Copyright © 2019 Small Business Majority. Small Business Majority is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization.