text: An Oscar-winner for the screenplay to The Killing Fields, Robinson debuts in the novel with the hilarious and engaging story of a working-class British teen growing up in the 1950s. Book's end will bring explanations for the behavior of all, but at the start a person might well doubt it—when meeting Thomas Penman, for example, nearly 15 but still preoccupying himself with moving his bowels anywhere but on the toilet and wrapping the results in bags for the discovery and delight of others. This is a boy also (when not constructing bombs) who lies, spies, and eavesdrops obsessively—traits possibly inherited from his grandfather, who likes to —[creep] around in the attic with his penis out.— It's a credit to Robinson's Chaucerian skills and enormous human sympathies that he magically guides his material along the cliff-edge of slapstick and, without losing the least bit of its comic spirit, transforms it into the humane, subtle, and moving. Near the seacoast in Kent—with a passel of rather vile dogs as well—live Thomas and his sister Bel, their parents Mabs and Rob, and grandparents Walter and Ethel. Rob, tough and built as if of bricks, is a walking fuse of near-rage, while wife Mabs, sleeping on the other side of the house, guards her own secret silence. Dying now of cancer, grandfather Walter somehow survived WWI (his tale is unforgettable) but lost his one true love—a void in his life that gives him a special bond to young Thomas, this being the case for reasons that will grow clear at last as the boy falls in love, searches the past, gets into terrible trouble, thanks in no small part to his weasely friend Maurice and his outrageously stolid and ruinous parents, the Rev. and Mrs. Potts. Love, youth, and satire delivered with the verve and allure of, say, Amis—the real one, that is, not the modernized Martin, but lordly and hilarious Kingsley.


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The Inaugural Miracle on Main Street 5k was this afternoon and it was a race that I am definitely adding to my calendar every year.
It started and finished on Main Street in Sylvania, Ohio, located just outside of Toledo. A field of almost 500 runners lined up as holiday music played, setting a festive atmosphere. The race course ran through Sylvania and started with a hill just before we passed Flower Hospital. Northwest Ohio is known for being flat so any kind of hill is a big deal. The rest of the course was essentially flat and fast.
There were spectators at the finish line who did a great job at helping give me that final boost needed to finish the race strong! This is always appreciated!
When I finished, my Garmin time was 2 seconds slower than my PR on Thanksgiving at Dave's Turkey Chase 5k. I was really hoping for another PR today and that the actual chip time was different from my Garmin. My final chip time was 30:53, one freaking second slower than my PR of 30:52. Ughhhhh. Of course I'm thinking of the shoulda, coulda, woulda's of the race. But I'm thrilled that I ran a race almost exactly as I did 11 days ago.
Part of my team of Mercy Health Glass City Marathon Ambassadors also ran the race. I think we all enjoyed it immensely! The race was executed to perfection, which is a hard thing to do during a new race.I'm not sure if I'm running anymore races in 2016, but my 2017 calendar is packed!

subset: commoncrawl


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permissively licensed,
async/await-native I/O library for Python. Like all async libraries,
its main purpose is to help you write programs that do multiple
things at the same time with parallelized I/O. A web spider that
wants to fetch lots of pages in parallel, a web server that needs to
juggle lots of downloads and websocket connections at the same time, a
process supervisor monitoring multiple subprocesses... that sort of
thing. Compared to other libraries, Trio attempts to distinguish
itself with an obsessive focus on usability and
correctness. Concurrency is complicated; we try to make it easy
to get things right.
Trio was built from the ground up to take advantage of the latest Python features, and draws inspiration from many sources, in particular Dave Beazley's Curio. The resulting design is radically simpler than older competitors like asyncio and Twisted, yet just as capable. Trio is the Python I/O library I always
trio alternatives and similar packages
Based on the "Networking" category
uvloop8.7 8.4 L4 trio VS uvloopUltra fast implementation of asyncio event loop on top of libuv.
Twisted8.4 9.1 L3 trio VS TwistedAn event-driven networking engine.
curio7.7 6.5 L3 trio VS curioCurio is a modern library for performing reliable concurrent I/O using Python coroutines and the explicit async/await syntax introduced in Python 3.5
pyzmq7.5 7.7 L4 trio VS pyzmqA Python wrapper for the ZeroMQ message library.
NAPALM6.7 7.6 trio VS NAPALMCross-vendor API to manipulate network devices.
pulsar6.4 0.0 L3 trio VS pulsarEvent-driven concurrent framework for Python.
asyncio5.2 0.0 L4 trio VS asyncio(Python standard library) Asynchronous I/O, event loop, coroutines and tasks.
LDAP34.0 7.7 trio VS LDAP3a strictly RFC 4510 conforming LDAP V3 pure Python client. The same codebase works with Python 2. Python 3, PyPy and PyPy3
diesel3.9 0.0 L4 trio VS dieselGreenlet-based event I/O Framework for Python.
txZMQ2.6 0.0 L4 trio VS txZMQTwisted based wrapper for the ZeroMQ message library.
amqpstorm2.0 6.4 L5 trio VS amqpstormA fully thread-safe RabbitMQ library for Python based on pamqp.
quick-net0.7 0.0 trio VS quick-netThis is a top level socket library, making servers and clients EASY!
* Code Quality Rankings and insights are calculated and provided by Lumnify.
They vary from L1 to L5 with "L5" being the highest. Visit our partner's website for more details.
Do you think we are missing an alternative of trio or a related project?


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Alternating Current is a three part audiovisual interview of myself in conversation with writer and translator Quentin S Crisp. Crisp is responsible for the Chomu Press and his works include texts such as Dadaoism, an anthology exploring the affinities of Dada and Daoist thought.
This is a 3 part series of audio interviews. In these interviews we embark on a post-humanist reading of the ancient taoist text, the "Tao Te Ching" in which we discuss the state of the human identity in the light of the rapidly shifting political map of 2016. During one of our interviews, Quentin uses the analogy of 'alternating current' to describe human identity, in which 'the gaps in the frequency allow for possibilities'. This idea of the human identity as occupying both a negative and positive space is explored in this interview.
Part 1


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Wet sprayed concrete means delivery (handling) of a ready-mixed sprayed concrete consisting of aggregate, cement, water and sprayed concrete admixtures in a workable mix. For spraying, the wet sprayed concrete is mixed with air and shotcrete accelerators and then applied. The wet sprayed concrete can be processed by the dense-flow or the thin-flow method. Dense-flow sprayed concrete is the latest high-performance process.
Wet sprayed concrete is always used when high set concrete quality is specified and high output is required. This process is by far the most popular in mechanical tunneling. Ultimately the choice of process is also determined by the contractor's preferences! The main applications of the wet sprayed concrete process are:
- sprayed concrete works with high output capacity
- substantially improved working conditions in the spraying area
- higher durability due to controlled mixing water quantity
The advantages of the wet spraying process cover many different areas. Wet sprayed concrete is the more modern and efficient method.
- increased spraying output, up to 25 m3/h in some cases
- rebound level reduced by a factor of two to four
- substantially improved working conditions due to less dust generation
- reduced wear costs on the spraying equipment
- low air requirement during spraying
- higher quality installed sprayed concrete (constant water content)


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Approximate 1.5 acre parcel lot set in the Havenwood Hills subdivision. Awesome wooded lot with cleared area for your home! Utilities include electricity and gas at the road. Approximately 3000 yard of fill already added. See lots of wildlife in your own backyard! Easy access to highway and only minutes from Green Bay.
Features Land
|Lot Size:
|Approx Acres: 1.5
|School District: Oconto Falls
|High School:
|Middle School:
|Elementary School:
|Taxes: $572
|Tax Year: 2016
|Body of Water:
|Lot Description:
|Subdivision: Havenwood Hills


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Stephen King's iconic clown, Pennywise, also known as "It," who was responsible for striking fear in many children upon the release of the horror novel "It" is heading his way towards modern audiences this September.
The film portrays a group of neighborhood friends, led by 14-year-old actor Jaeden Liberher, who encounter the terrifying clown, played by Bill Skarsgård, as they try to solve the disappearance of other young children in the neighborhood, including that of the protagonists' younger brother, George.
Pennywise, responsible for the disappearances, greets the children with his iconic pointed smile and colorful, yet disturbing, ensemble, ready to prey on new meat.
In their strive to be the heroes of the story and find the missing children, as well as prevent future disappearances, the pack of friends tries to hold on to their bravery all the while enduring the terrorizing antics of Pennywise as well as neighborhood bullies who bring new conflict into the mix.
Released as a horror novel in 1986, King's "It" reached publication during a time in which the horror genre became popularized in American culture. The 1980's saw a swarm of horror films, including "A Nightmare on Elm Street" (1984) and "The Shining" (1980). Many of these films would later become icons. "It" is looking to join the ranks with its release on September 8, 2017.
Check out the exclusive trailer below!
Featured image courtesy of Cinema Blend


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We serve h
igh-net-worth individuals and families
, corporate, executives
, professionals and b
usiness owners.
We serve h
igh-net-worth individuals and families
, corporate, executives
, professionals and b
usiness owners.
For more information, please contact us.
We prepare federal and state income tax returns for individuals, trusts, estates, partnerships and corporations, estate and gift tax returns, pension and profit sharing plans and foundation returns. We perform tax research, planning and consulting year-round in order to develop tax saving opportunities for our clients as situations arise. We have an ideal combination of finance and legal expertise to respond to notices and represent you before the IRS and States in the event of an audit. We have a good record of resolving disputes and abating penalties.
We prepare unaudited financial statements and provide bill payment, bookkeeping services and related administrative services for individuals, trusts, partnerships, foundations, and corporations. Our goal is to provide our clients with the accurate and unbiased details needed to make important decisions.
Elderly clients may have specific needs and/or require extra help when it comes to managing their financial matters. We provide bookkeeping and bill paying services to ensure that all deadlines and due dates are met. Tracking the income and expenses also facilitates tax return preparation and can aid with estate planning.
Your business can rely on the solid financial analysis and legal advice we provide. We have the experience and expertise to analyze your situation and develop a plan for financial success.
We can provide comprehensive financial reporting at various timeframes (monthly, quarterly, and annually). We can aggregate all of your assets, including your share of partnerships, trusts and other jointly held assets, into one "big picture" report, while also providing the option to breakout the information in virtually any way that is needed to track performance, transactions and balances.
We can help you develop and implement your estate plan with a range of approaches. We have extensive knowledge in estate planning techniques, tax laws, accounting and wealth management. Of equal importance, we have the experience to ensure your plan is properly carried out.
We can provide legal services you need in forming and maintaining entities, preparing wills and trusts, administering estates and trusts, performing real estate closings, and resolving tax disputes. We build on our existing relationships and context to save your time and resources. We are dedicated to obtaining favorable outcomes for our clients. We take a positive approach and manage all matters efficiently, helping you focus on what is most important to you.


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Daniel has captured over 18 World titles to date from numerous Competitions Circuits along with many International Titles, for his high flying and dynamic performances.
Volume 1: Kama Basics
Volume 2: Intermediate Kamas
Jessica demonstrates how to properly perform a musical form for competition. She begins by performing the form full speed to music, and then breaks down each segment.
Vol. 1 Marcel gives you comprehensive and detailed instruction on his legendary tricking style. This volume includes training on the 540, cheat 720, cheat 900, aerial, butterfly, double leg, and suicide swipe. Marcel also include variat
Volume 1: Chuk Basics Learn to select and hold chuks. Keys to stretching before training. Basic blocks and chops, block punch combos, drills and combinations. Approx. 50 min. #189286D Volume 2: Intermediate Chuks Diagonal strik
Preston Clements continues to be a dominate force and a #1 rated competitor in NASKA, NBL and WSKF sparring and fighting tournaments.
Volume 1: Sparring Fundamentals
Volume 2: Intermediate Sparring
Volume 3: Advanced
Jarrett Leiker has been a lifelong practitioner of martial arts, starting at age 3 under the instruction of Jill and Bob Leiker. Jarrett is a 16-time professional world champion, including titles in NASKA, WKA, WSKF and NBL. He is also a 3-time SKIL
Volume 1: Introduction to Sword with Kalman walks you through the core basics every sword student should know. He starts with tying the hakama and continues with drawing the sword, standard and reverse grips, chiburi and noto.
Volume 2:
Caitlin is the 2008 WAKO Weapons and Forms Junior World Champion and has won over 40 other world titles in weapons and forms. She is currently ranked number one in extreme and creative forms on the NASKA competition circuit.
Volume 1: Basi
Ross Levine is a 3rd degree black belt in Taekwondo. He has been studying Taekwondo for over 12 years and has been training with a bo staff for 8 years. Ross is the only martial artist to win a double Warrior Cup Championship in one year for weapons


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I've literally been scanning the internet lately like a madman looking for anything remotely entertaining concerning the Pirates. And I can't find shit. Not even a minor bullshit free agent signing. Not even a meaningless trade rumor. Not even a simple butt tweet from one of the players. I'm starting to get impatient. How in the hell is one supposed to run a blog on Pittsburgh sports when there isn't any Bucco news (other than writing a Pirate blog post complaining about how there ins't any news to report)? I know it's only February 1st and we're still over a month away from spring training, but can I at least get an Instagram video of Andrew McCutchen using shitty form in the gym like Bryce Harper? God, these other bloggers out there have it easy! Or maybe I'm just a shitty blogger that doesn't know what the fuck am I doing? That, very well, could be the case. After all, I am new to the game. I'm still knocking off my bloggin' dust.
Maybe there is some sort of relevant Pirates news other bloggers are tackling that I'm missing. But you what I do know – nobody wants to read about how pitchers and catchers are going to be reporting to spring training in two weeks. That shit doesn't generate the page views. People want to hear how fucking pissed off Andrew McCutchen is after an embarrassing offseason of trade rumors. People want to read about how stupid Jung Ho Kang is for getting like his 34th DUI. And people want to find out what Bob Nutting will do next to fuck up the Pirates chances of ever contending again.
I guess what I'm trying to say here is that you will not get unentertaining blog posts out of me when it comes to the Pirates. Or anything else for that matter on Barstool Pittsburgh! I'm going to give provide you with stories you want to read, videos you want to see, and original content that you need! You're going to fucking love it.
*Comes back to reality for a second.*
Please, oh dear Lord, give me some decent material to use or it's back to the perpetual hell that is the office desk job.
Update: As soon as I hit publish on this blog post I find out Josh Bell is uncertain for Opening Day after undergoing knee surgery. Fuck me.


text:
Something to keep you company while you're hiding out from your family. On this very special Thanksgiving edition of the show we talk about some of the high/low-lights of Thanksgiving past and present then wrap it up with a couple segments we haven't done in awhile.
Happy Thanksgiving and we'll return to our regularly scheduled podcasting next week!
As discussed on the show:
- Check out Better World Radio (Jeremy's other podcast)
- Sign up for the mailing list to hear about Jeremy's side project at tenseventen.com
- You won't be able to tweet from @_twit_for_all because I already had to shut it down due to someone going all hitler on us.
To download right click here and select "save as"
You can find us on the web: www.nerdoutloudpod.com, facebook.com/nerdoutloudpod, @nerdoutloudpod on twitter, and please subscribe/review us on iTunes. You can find all our contact information, including voicemail and text line on our website: http://nerdoutloudpod.com/contact


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10701 Battleview Parkway
Manassas, Virginia 20109 USA
Phone:+1 703-335-1300
Fax:+1 703-335-9442
Sales:+1 703-335-1300
Sales fax:+1 703-335-9442
All public areas non-smoking
Beauty shop
Car Rental
Coffee/tea in-room
Housekeeping service daily
Laundry on-site
Laundry on-site, coin operated
Local restaurant dinner delivery
Mobility accessible rooms
Newspaper in lobby
Safe deposit boxes, front desk
Valet dry-cleaning
Local restaurant dinner delivery
Sundry/Convenience store
Your food and beverage destination for refreshing breakfast choices in the morning, and a variety of dinner and cocktail options in the evening. The Bistro also offers specialty beverages made with Starbucks® coffee to help you get a jump on the day.
Open for breakfast and dinner Dress code: Casual Phone: +1 703-335-1300
Bowling (0.9 miles)
Miniature golf (6 miles)
Outdoor Courts (5 miles)
Volleyball (10 miles)
Courtyard Manassas Fitness Center
Indoor Pool
Broad Run Golf and Practice Facility (6.7 miles)
Broad Run Golf and Practice Facility
Stonewall Golf Club (8 miles)
Stonewall Golf Club
Virginia Oaks Golf Club (6.7 miles)
Virginia Oaks Golf Club
General's Ridge Golf Course (8.7 miles)
General's Ridge Golf Course
Prince William Golf Course (10 miles)
Prince William Golf Course
Westfield's Marriott Golf Club (10.8 miles)
Westfield's Marriott Golf Club
Bristow Manor Golf Club (9 miles)
Bristow Manor Golf Club
7800 Cellar Door Drive
4.5 miles W from hotel
12521 Lee Highway
0.5 miles N from hotel
15th St. and Constitution Ave.
30 miles E from hotel
101 Cave Hill Road
63.7 miles W from hotel
Commerce Street
24.1 miles E from hotel
9431 West Street
5.2 miles S from hotel
14390 Air and Space Parkway
9101 Prince William Street
5.3 miles S from hotel
10624 Dumfries Road
12 miles SE from hotel
7878 Sudley Rd.
1.8 miles S from hotel
7500 Ben Lomond Park Dr
3.5 miles S from hotel
11750 Fair Oaks Mall
10.2 miles NW from hotel
FBI - Northern Virginia Resident Agency
9325 Discovery Blvd.
4.7 miles S from hotel
10400 Terminal Road
5.2 miles SE from hotel
10900 University Drive
14.3 miles from hotel
8300 Sudley Road
3 miles S from hotel
2700 Potomac Mills Circle
19 miles from hotel
30 miles NE from hotel
5.8 miles from hotel
Airport Phone: +1 703-572-2700
Hotel direction: 18 miles SW
This hotel does not provide shuttle service.
Proceed to airport exit, Take Rte 28 South (Manassas/Centreville) for 10 miles to I-66 West, Follow about 6 miles and take exit 47B, turn right at the 2nd traffic light onto Battleview Pkwy. Turn right again after the Cracker Barrel Restaurant, the hotel is on the right.
Airport Phone: +1 703-361-1882
Hotel direction: 0.5 miles E
This hotel does not provide shuttle service.
Exit airport onto Gateway Blvd., Follow to end and turn left onto Godwin Drive, follow to 1st traffic light and turn left onto Rt 28 South, take immediate right turn onto Rt. 234 North, follow to 3rd light and turn right onto Balls Ford Road, follow to 3rd light and turn left onto Sudley Road, turn right at 1st light onto Battleview Parkway, turn right again after Cracker Barrel Restaurant, hotel is on the right.
Airport Phone: +1 703-417-8000
Hotel direction: 32 miles W
This hotel does not provide shuttle service.
Take Rt 1 to Rt 110 toward Rosslyn. Look for I-66 West. Take I-66 West 30 miles to Exit 47B Rt 234 Manassas Exit. Turn right at 2nd traffic light onto Battleview Parkway. Turn right again after Cracker Barrel Restaurant. Hotel is on the right.
Copy service
Fax service
Network/Internet printing
Overnight delivery/pickup
For more information about the physical features of our accessible rooms, common areas, or special services relating to a specific disability, please call +1 703-335-1300.


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By this time, you might already have a list of the best things to give your dearest father and celebrate dad on his day. But make the list complete by bringing him to the White House Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge for a sumptuous dinner to honor and celebrate all the best that your father has given you and your family.
The White House Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge has prepared only the best to ensure that Father's Day celebration is nothing less than perfect.
Because celebrating dad is special, we are offering two sets of menus for you to choose from.
The first set is composed of Unagi and Torchon of Foie Gras, Fish and Chips, Raspberry Salad, Cream of Asparagus, Pan-seared Salmon, US hanging Tender Steak, Cheesecake, and a glass of wine.
The second set is composed of Smoked Toro, Salmon Tartar, Raspberry Salad, Tomato Soup, Pan-seared Seabass, Steak Frites, Crème Brulee and a glass of wine.
Always the White House takes the pleasure of sharing the best moments with you and your loved ones and on Father's Day, as we have set everything for you to show how much you appreciate and care for him—for teaching you life, guiding you through the way, showing you the world.
Two of the suspects who took part in the abduction of three foreigners and one Filipina in the Holiday Oceanview Resort in the Island Garden City of Samal on September 21 have already been identified. One of them was said to have been arrested by the authorities.
This was the revelation made by Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte Monday afternoon after attending the founding anniversary of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.
The mayor released the information amidst the continued refusal of the Special Investigation Task Group Oceanview to release any update regarding their probe on the incident.
For the past two weeks, SITG Oceanview had only released one official update on their ongoing probe and had been tight-lipped since then.
Mayor Duterte identified one of the arrested suspects as Bandajar Adona alias Banon. He said the suspect was positively identified thru the CCTV footage retrieved by the authorities during the kidnapping incident.
Duterte however refused to give further details saying that he is not in authority to speak. The mayor however admitted being privy to the information as he attended the briefing by the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in relation to the Samal kidnapping.
It can be recalled that it was Duterte who revealed that the kidnappers and their victims are already in Sulu just as the SITG Oceanview kept on insisting that the culprits are still within the Eastern Mindanao.
Duterte also revealed that the kidnappers could be Abu Sayyaf Group or their affiliates while the SITG said it could be the handiwork of the New People's Army rebels based on the note left by the kidnappers which claimed that they are NPAs.
Efforts to confirm Duterte's latest revelation from the police and the military proved futile as of this posting.


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Every once in a while I read an article about an elected official in some town riding the bus to work. It's a great way for mayors and councilors to check in on the current state of their public transportation system and start thinking about how they can work to make those systems better. Toledo's Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz has agreed to take the bus to work once each week, and points out some of the benefits of public transit: "It is convenient, affordable. Everything about it is positive. From a health standpoint, it is pointed out to me — and I agree — that I could use the exercise." I know most of our elected officials in the Richmond area are part-time, and those from Chesterfield and Henrico would have a much harder time getting to work via bus (and in the former's case, impossible). But I'd love to see those that could make a public commitment to take the bus to work—maybe just once a week for the next month?
Catherine Komp at Virginia Currents has a great piece on the newly-opened Front Porch Cafe in Richmond's East End. The Cafe is an excellent place to get coffee, but it's also a great place to employ young people. Later on in the article, Councilmember Newbille weighs in on the need for a good public transportation network to connect young people—and all people, really—to the region's jobs. Luckily, the #7 bus runs right past the Front Porch Cafe.
This piece in Business Insider, while not specifically about Richmond, speaks to the same issues brought up by Councilmember Newbille in the previous link: "America's highly segregated and car-dependent cities and counties make it difficult for many workers to reach the facilities where the jobs are. And the jobs are increasingly is the suburbs." Interesting side note, a lot of the research in this article comes from the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.
Here's a delightful love letter to taking the bus.
Indianapolis is one of the 20 finalists for Amazon's HQ2, and here's a letter to the editor at the Indy Star that points out why: "One of the requirements Amazon stipulated is direct access to mass transit, such as rail, subway or bus lines. The system we've had for decades – and still have today – wouldn't qualify, but, fortunately, progress is underway thanks to Marion County voters, who approved a tax increase in 2016 that's allowing the Marion County Transit Plan to be implemented."
Now for your regularly scheduled update on Nashville's transit funding initiative! Mayor Megan Barry's transit referendum proposal has passed the second of three votes required to put it on the ballot this May. The next, and final, vote will take place on February 6th.
If you'd like to support RVA Rapid Transit's work to bring a truly regional transit system to Richmond, consider picking up an awesome transit map T-shirt or making a tax-deductible donation.
—Ross Catrow


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PHOENIX -- When Louisville center Gorgui Dieng drained a 3-pointer in the first half of Louisville's 57-44 win over Michigan State here Thursday night -- the first made 3-pointer of his career, and just his second attempt all season -- he smiled. On the sideline, Cardinals coach Rick Pitino couldn't help but smile back.
Believe it or not, Pitino had seen this movie before.
"About a week ago in practice after it was over he kept shooting 3s," Pitino said. "I said, 'It looks pretty good, Gorgui.' He said 'Next year, I'm shooting a lot of 3s.' I said, 'No problem, as long as you make them.'
"When he made it, I said, 'I thought it was next year.' He just smiled. It was great."
Not that Dieng will have license to fire at will in the future, whether this season or next. But the story of Dieng's post-practice shooting sessions, just one more check box for the Senegalese player that seems to improve with every outing, is one of the main reasons Louisville can delay talk of "next year" for at least two more days.
Thanks to Dieng's nine rebounds and seven blocks (which tied the all-time UL tournament record held by Pervis Ellison), the Cardinals dominated top-seeded Michigan State on the defensive interior, setting a score of tourney records and superlatives along the way. The Spartans' 44 points were the fewest scored by any No. 1 seed in the shot-clock era. That point total and the 28.6 percent field-goal percentage were all-time tourney lows for MSU.
Thanks to a press that harried the Spartans, that wore them out and changed their style, Pitino is now a remarkable 10-0 all-time in the Sweet 16 -- the best record of any coach in the history of the tournament. And Michigan State, the West Region's clear Final Four favorite, ended its surprisingly successful season on an entirely uncharacteristic night.
"I think we ran out of gas a little bit -- emotionally, mentally and physically," MSU coach Tom Izzo said. "Louisville had the gas. They deserved to win."
"You know what our press does a lot of times? It just wears people out," Pitino said. "We didn't really want to trap them. We wanted to run and jump to get to the legs. ... Certain people we try to create steals or traps or rotate. Tonight we just tried to get into our zone, wear them out and neutralize the backboard."
That plan couldn't have worked out better for Pitino and his team. The Cardinals' pressure was never overwhelming on any specific occasion, and more often than not the Spartans were able to get into the half court with minimal issue. But the constant pressure clearly made Michigan State uncomfortable.
The Spartans finished the game with a 24.7 percent turnover rate. But it was their shooting -- a 33.7 percent effective field-goal percentage, a 5-for-21 mark beyond the 3-point arc (and how many of those shots missed even the rim?) and a staggeringly low 22.2 percent offensive rebounding rate -- that truly caused a team averaging nearly 1.17 points per possession this season to score just 0.72 on Thursday night.
Indeed, it wasn't just the pressure, or a matter of winning the purported size-vs.-speed matchup. It was all-court defensive solidity, usually by way of a stifling 2-3 zone. According to ESPN Stats & Info, the Cardinals played zone on 45 of Michigan State's 48 possessions, holding Draymond Green & Co. to a mere 22.2 percent shooting in the zone.
It came from everywhere. Dieng's shot-blocking and interior defense utterly erased MSU big men Adreian Payne and Derrick Nix from the game. (Nix's constant combinations of head fakes never remotely fooled Dieng. He stood, waited and repelled Nix with ease.) Peyton Siva, Russ Smith and Chris Smith applied the perimeter pressure.
And freshman Chane Behanan did much to eliminate the matchup problems caused by the multitalented Green. His nine rebounds -- five of which were defensive -- were the perfect complement to Dieng on the glass. His offense, which came mostly on efficient (and impressively patient) interior shots, provided a handful of key baskets throughout the second half. And his three steals helped seal the game in the final minutes.
Behanan's matchup was Green; he was a freshman facing off against the Big Ten player of the year, one of the nation's most experienced players. And he won.
"I respect him a lot," Behanan said. "I've watched him play this game, and I really love the way he plays. ... But it felt good [to play well] against him."
From the inside out, Louisville was -- well, pick your adjective. Smothering. Stifling. Twitchy. Ruthless. Anything positive you can say about a defensive effort, say it about this one. Team defensive efforts don't come more comprehensive than this.
And Dieng, the sophomore from Senegal, was always at its heart -- literally and figuratively.
Asked to describe Dieng's performance, Behanan was succinct.
"Lottery pick," he said. "He played like he wanted to get drafted tonight."
Dieng does want to get drafted: According to his coach, it was the first goal Dieng stated when he arrived at the program as a freshman last season. Pitino said he promised Dieng he would "drive him like [he'd] never been driven before."
"My freshman year I was complaining a lot," Dieng said. "I said he worked me so hard, I'm tired, my legs hurt. I thank him for that, [because] he changed my whole mentality. He made me tougher. He teach me [what] this game can do in your life."
Maybe that's why Dieng wanted to get that 3-pointer up Thursday night, maybe that's why he took a break from swatting Spartans' shots to do his best Kuric impression: If he keeps playing like this, he may not have a "next year" at the college level.
But that's a concern for another time. For now, Pitino's perfect Sweet 16 record remains intact and, thanks to a Dieng-led defense, on the verge of a trip to the Final Four. The Cardinals aren't pretty, but after seven wins in a row -- including four in a Big East tourney title run -- their defense, their knack for timely 3s and their legendary coach make them one of the most fearsome teams in the country.
In other words, your favorite team doesn't want to play Louisville right now.
Who would?


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Holidays Lounge reveals some of the things that make North and South Carolina unique. North and South Carolina are home to history, shopping, and great golf. From the coastal beaches to the mountains, the terrain and outdoor activities are plentiful. Here are suggestions from Holidays Lounge to complete a vacation …Read More »
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Stow that book and get out for some sun - it's going to be a beauty of a weekend even if a bit nippy in the mornings.
"Taupo north, from [today] onwards is really beautiful," said MetService meteorologist Ravi Kendula.
"There may be a couple of showers on the east coast of Northland north of Whangarei; otherwise, just fine."
A ridge of high pressure is delivering the sunshine to the upper half of the North Island, along with frosts for inland areas.
Aucklanders will be glad of some sun after rain and showers to mid-week. The city is set for daytime highs of 16C, with overnight lows of 6C predicted for last night and 8C tonight.
Light winds and a big blue sky are expected at Mt Ruapehu for the weekend, where skiers and boarders have been in action this week with an early start at Whakapapa's Rockgarden, thanks to repeated pre-season dumps of snow - on top of machine-made snow - that have lasted into winter. The Happy Valley learners' area opened more than a week ago.
The Remarkables skifield near Queenstown opened early this week too, but is in for gales and snowfall today.
Rotorua, Taupo and Taumarunui are among areas expected to see a touch of frost this morning and tomorrow morning. Hamiltonians too might notice a morning freeze at ground level today but tomorrow's sunrise temperature may hover a touch higher.
In contrast to the Tolaga Bay floods at the start of the week, the east coast of the North Island from Gisborne to Wairarapa is expected to have a fine weekend, after the predicted clearing of remaining showers north of Wairoa last night.
South of the central North Island high country, however, the sunny end to the working week turns generally to areas of cloud and isolated showers.
And the South Island is in for a mix of cloudy areas and showers today, with rain tomorrow in Westland and Canterbury.


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Our client is one of the largest asset management firms in the world, with over 50,000 employees across 35 countries. They are committed to excellence for their customers and employees. Our client is dedicated to diversity and inclusion within the workplace that extends to their culture of social responsibility. They are currently seeking an Application Engineer to join their innovative team.
This position has a great benefit package that includes Medical, Dental and Vision benefits, 401k with company matching, and life insurance for those who qualify.
Responsibilities of the Application Engineer:
Requirements of the Application Engineer:
Key Words: Application Engineer, Ruby on Rails, SQL, PL/SQL, Rabbit MQ, IBM, MQ, Financial Services
Job ID: 321894
About Eliassen Group:
Eliassen Group provides strategic talent solutions to drive our clients' innovation and business results. Leveraging nearly 30 years of success, our expertise in IT staffing, Agile consulting, creative services, managed services, and life sciences enables us to partner with our clients to execute their business strategy and scale effectively. Headquartered in Reading, MA and with offices from coast to coast, Eliassen Group offers local community presence, deep networks, as well as national reach. For more information, visit http://www.eliassen.com.
Eliassen Group is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Don't miss out on our referral program! If we hire a candidate that you refer us to then you can be eligible for a $1,000 referral check!


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Quick Tip Thursday: Baskets in the Fridge
What I love about this basket system:
- It is easy to remove the basket and take to the counter for easy food prep and replace back into fridge when finished.
- All like items are corralled together, making it super simple for even the littlest in our family to help herself.
- Makes shopping easy, as baskets are clear and can see contents (or lack thereof).
- Helps create order, no more food falling out of the fridge.
Another fantastic option would be these bins from The Container Store that I love oh so much. My only reason for not using them versus the existing baskets was the height of the bins. These may be a better option for those of you with stacked fridge/freezer versus a side-by-side.
How would this quick tip work for you and your family? What types of food groups would you put together to make life more simple in your home?
Don't forget to join me tomorrow as I unveil Wednesday's Reader Challenge of toiletry storage. See you then!


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I write stuff, mostly for fantasy role-playing games. Nice to meet you!About MeContact Me
I just released a new thing: "I Want To Try! Tips on becoming a better player" is live now and shipping on the Guild.
There is tons of helpful information out there about how to be a better DM. Books, websites, blogs, Youtube video series, you name it. I've noticed, however, that there is precious little about how to be a better D&D player. This monograph seeks to address that lack, if only slightly, and in a more-than-slightly opinionated way.
It is based on more than 30 years of experience playing D&D and other tabletop roleplaying games, as well as observations about basic human nature and inspiration from such luminaries as Kenneth Hite, Robin Laws, Dawnforgedcast, Matthew Mercer, Geek & Sundry, Matt Colville, "DnD" and "RPG" on Reddit, con panels, and many more I can't possibly remember.
This is the companion volume to my best-selling "You Can Try: Tips on becoming a better DM."


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Highlights of 2017
As 2017 is wrapping up, I wanted to share with you all some of my favorite highlights from the year. It's been an exciting year filled with lots of changes and growth. With photos of course, I'll share some of it with you!
Business Highlights:
This was a unique year for me. I opted for the first time ever to not spend the entire summer in Michigan for my clients. This was a hard decision, but I decided ultimately it would be the best for my married life to work on growing my business where my husband was at. I only came up once this past summer for two weddings and instead took on weddings in WA for the rest of the summer. I miss my MI clients, but WA provided me with new opportunities.
1. I shot some of my most unique weddings yet (including a traditional chinese tea party) with clients from all across the globe. It was really fun experiencing how nuptials are exchanged and celebrated within different cultures.
2. I was hired on by Nikki Closser Photography to help photograph her clients in her beautiful Seattle studio. She has taught me so many amazing new things, especially in photographing women. She also photographed me and made me feel so beautiful.
3. I was told by an egotistical priest at a wedding that I was banned from taking photos in his church again if I couldn't send him 3 photos of himself by the end of the night. I was photographing the wedding for another photography company I was hired on by until 11pm and by contract, I personally couldn't share any of the photos. He raged at me and I professionally held my ground and didn't cave into his demands. It makes my highlights because I see growth in myself in this moment as I emotionally blocked his bad energy, didn't get upset/return his anger and kept my focus on the client.
4. I've narrowed down my niche and deepened my love for photographing 1-1 portraits (seniors and women especially) and love stories (couples, engagements, anniversaries and small intimate weddings). This means I took on no newborns, limited family sessions and accepted fewer large weddings so that I could be more intentional and focused on telling my client's stories better.
5. I took new lighting courses, practiced hours in studio and learned more about lighting, branding, value, etc... Always growing!
Personal Highlights:
This was a year of adventure and growth. I solidly believe that these go hand in hand.
1. Moving to WA and experiencing the ocean, mountains, rainforests and all the beauty of the PNW. It's been a refreshing change of scenery from North Dakota.
2. Went on my first Cruise to the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands with family. This was one of the most fun trips I've ever been on! I snorkeled on all of the islands and constantly pushed away my fear of sharks over and over again while doing so.
3. I did alot of hiking and experienced some of the most breathtaking views ever, while learning the importance of getting outside when you're feeling down or discouraged. (Also learned a painful lesson on the importance of sporting SPF when hiking high altitudes in snow.)
4. Met my oldest sister in Sedona, AZ for a killer trip that included experiencing the Grand Canyon, sunrise at a vortex and falling in love all over again with travel.
5. Crossed a few things off of our PNW bucket list, including seeing the Christmas lights at Leavenworth, going white water rafting and seeing Thor's Well.
6. I've spent hours this year tracing my ancestry and learned just how deep my Finnish roots are. I've learned a deeper appreciation and understanding of my family and myself. After living away from my Finn family for so long, I realize how dearly I miss a good sauna night with homemade nissu and coffee.
7. Self Discovery was big this year for me. I poured into studying about different personality types, which has given me new found confidence in understanding both others and myself (especially in learning how to deal with people who don't understand me). I've found power in being an introvert and don't feel shamed when people tell me "you're so quiet" or tell others that "Janelle is really shy". (FYI I'm not shy.) I've become proud of the fact that I'm a really good listener and adding that to the fact that I'm very empathic, helps me realize why I've had complete strangers tell me their life stories and pour out secrets to me that they felt they couldn't tell others. I'm okay with that fact that I process things better in my own time, in quiet personal space than in large groups and that I need my down time to recharge after big social events. I'm no longer embarrassed about my sensitive side and know when I need to distance myself from bad energy before completely draining myself. I've learned how to love my traits, whether the people around me do or not. Even more, I've learned to appreciate the opposing qualities in friends and family. If you're looking to grow in self respect and improve relationships with those around you, I encourage everyone to take times to teach themselves about different personality types. I promise it will be beneficial!
Thanks for reading! Share with me some of your highlights from 2017 in the comments below!
P.S. Click on the images below to see a few more photos from my adventures!


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Luxurious Kitchen Design: Check Out These Amazing Trends/
The kitchen holds a special place in many homes. Each homeowner has different tastes, so knowing the various trends in kitchen design is helpful. Some cool luxury kitchen design items are discussed below.
The walk-in pantry trend is great for kitchens where you want to hide cupboards and even some appliances out of sight. Other popular cupboard designs include streamlined surfaces such as cupboards with pulls rather than handles. Hiding outlets so that they become a part of the design is also common. Streamlining kitchen designs make for a smooth look that is neat and simple.
Smart Kitchen
Make your kitchen tech friendly by using appliances that you can manipulate by using your cellphone or other electronic devices. You can install refrigerators that can adjust the temperature depending on the temperature outside. Motion sensor faucets are another nifty feature in modern kitchens.
Kitchen Islands
Islands are no standard in almost any kitchen that has the space. A single level, all-purpose kitchen island can be the focal point in a kitchen. Newer designs for kitchen islands see them being larger, and with more storage added as cupboards underneath. In kitchens that are large, seats can also be added so that the island can be both a work area as well as dining table.
Flooring & Ceiling
Ceramic tiles and hardwood are popular choices for kitchen floors. These flooring materials are strong and can manage the foot traffic in a kitchen. These types of flooring can also withstand moisture and stains that will get on the floor in any kitchen.
Lighting Magic
Like any other area of the home, special lighting in the kitchen can make the area magical. Modern kitchens are not confined to one type of lighting. Some good lighting options for the kitchen include focus lights, pendant lights, skylights, under counter lights are just a few. The placement of the lighting fixtures should serve a purpose such as brighter lights in meal prep areas.
Some homeowners go the extra mile by having two of everything such as two double sinks, two kitchen islands and even two ovens. This is especially useful for large households.
Modern luxury kitchen designs are both beautiful and useful since one of the most important aspects of any kitchen is practicality. These trendy designs will give any kitchen a unique look.


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|How long will delivery take?
|Delivery time will depend on the items purchased. For large furniture items we ask you to allow up to 7-10 working days for delivery, however we always endeavour to deliver as quickly as possible. This Includes 5 working days for Dispatch and 2 to 3 working days for delivery. Medium and small parcels are usually dispatched within 3 days and on a maximum 48-hour service and you will be notified when the goods have been dispatched and given a tracking number and tracking information where possible.
|Will I be notified of my delivery date before hand?
|As above this will depend on the type of item. For large furniture items you will be contacted when a date for your delivery has been booked. This will be either via phone or email. If possible you will be given an AM or PM slot. Medium and large parcels can usually be tracked online so you can check the expected delivery date with the carrier.
|Can I request a specific delivery date?
|Unfortunately we are unable to deliver on requested days; we deliver with our own drivers so routes must be planned efficiently. However, we always give you good notice of when delivery will be, and if required, we can arrange for the courier to call you on the day to let you know the expected arrival time.
|What happens if I cannot accept delivery on the day I have been allocated?
|If you are unable to accept delivery on your allocated date, your delivery date will be cancelled and you will need to wait until the next time we are in your area. In this case, we can unfortunately no longer guarantee that will deliver within 7-10 working days from the date of purchase.
|Can I pay for my item after it has been delivered?
|None of the items can be paid for after they have been dispatched/delivered. Full payment has to be received before any items will be dispatched, or a delivery date arranged.
|What happens if my purchase arrived broken/faulty?
|As per our terms and conditions, if you recieve a damged or faulty item we will offer you a free replacement. If a replacement is not available you will be given a full refund including all delivery costs paid.
|Can I return a product that is not damaged or faulty?
|Yes, please see our Delivery & Returns page for full details.
|Can I view before purchase?
|Yes. We have a small dedicated showroom next to our warehouse but not all items are displayed all the time. Our main Showroom and warehouse is in Nothamptonshire, and you'll need to let us know if you plan on dropping in for a visit so we can ensure that particular item/s you are interested in are ready for viewing.


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Trees are a precious commodity in today's world, and we are dedicated to providing the best care and service to ensure safe removal or state of the art pruning to ensure the health and longevity of your trees.
Owner / Operator Charles Emerson is an ISA Certified Arborist and a member of the Ontario Commercial Arborists Association (OCAA).
Charles Emerson Tree Service specializes in tree removal and pruning. We can safely remove any tree regardless of size, location or condition. Our arborists are fully educated and have the proper training to provide complete care for your trees.
Charles Emerson Tree Service is fully insured for liability and all employees are covered by WSIB.
All work is done in a professional manner by experienced personnel outfitted with the appropriate tools and equipment to complete the job properly.
We proudly serve the townships of King, Caledon, Mono, New Tecumseth and the GTA north.
References are available upon request.


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Why is it important that we never forget?
Hello Sweet Friends, How easily we forget......
This thought was lingering this morning as I begin preparing for a show in Lafayette, Louisiana this week. I was reminiscing of this same time five years ago when I would for the first time introduce Sweeteas. The thoughts of then still fresh today......is the printer right, will I be selling these books out of the trunk of my car for the next six years? Will they think I'm crazy? Is it good enough? And amidst the questions, there was this piece of hope that said, what if they are wrong?
In Deuteronomy 6 when the Israelites were about to enter their promised land, Moses said to them....never forget what He has done. And as I sit amidst boxes and curtains and books arranging my things to go, I hold tight to those words, because in knowing what He has done, we can hold tight to the truth.....He will do it again.
Priscilla Shirer says that some women never encounter the impossible God, because they would never put themselves in a position where He had to show up; I, on the other hand, live in a position where He has to show up. But it is in knowing that He has been faithful before that brings confidence that He will be faithful again. I believe. I love the thought of what happens next, because who could have imagined five years ago that those books would have sold in 6 months rather than 6 years? Who would have thought that I would have the courage to step out of the security of my pharmaceutical boat and step out on to water with Him, and still be standing? Who would have thought that God could do such a work as He has in a girl so bound to the world? But God........ Hmmmmm.....
I feel there are many of you today that need to remember. Remember what it was like when you fell in love with your husband, remember what it was like to put on your pjs and watch movies with your girlfriends, remember what it was like to laugh with your children, remember what it was like to feel His presence, remember what it felt like when He showed up, remember what it was like to dream, and remember all that He has done for you, so that you can with hope believe He will do it again.... in your marriage, in your relationships, in your heartache, in your great need. He can do it again.
I was listening to a pastor as I drove home yesterday, and he spoke of following God like ascending up a mountain. He said that like a climber there are places of exhilaration and places for rest, but there are also times that you feel like you can't go one step further. It feels like you have hit a wall. And so many of us get here and lose our focus through weariness or pain or doubt, and we turn back when we were two steps from breaking into the next level of His promises, mostly because we have forgotten what He has already done in our lives.
I just believe trust brings us to new places of inheritance just like with our children. If my daughter needed money to fill up her car with gas, I may give her $20. As my trust with her use of money grows, I may hand her my gas card, and then at some point, I may just say, "here is your own card." You see, as long as my daughter needs gas money she will keep coming back to me, but once I hand over the card do I trust that she will come back even though that need is met? It is so much like our spiritual journey....when we are in need, we stay close, but perhaps He will not fill that need until He can trust that we will remain close without it.
Sweet friends, if you are in a season of need or a place that feels like you have come up against a wall, perhaps God is drawing you close. He has not failed you or forgotten you, but is working on binding you together so that when that blessing comes that He can trust you will not forget the Blessor. When doubt starts to creep in, trust His timing, and never forget what He has already done in your life, and believe He will do it again!
Trust in His promise......Nothing is impossible with Me! Luke 1:37
Seek. Love. Follow.
In His Wings, Ro


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5 Reasons to Switch to E-CigarettesTerohan Nula September 3, 2018 0 COMMENTS
Since the e-cigarettes were introduced back in 2013, their popularity has grown tremendously. With the rising cost of tobacco and the consequences that go along with long-term cigarette smoking, it's no wonder many people have switched to vaping as an alternative.
E-cigs are cheaper and easy to use. Just refill your e-cigarette with your flavored "e-juice" and with a press of a button, you can enjoy vaping.
Need more convincing? Green Smart Living shares five more reasons to switch to vaping.
1. It's Cheaper
Cigarette prices have continued to increase and if you have been smoking for many years now, you have probably wasted thousands of dollars on your bad habit. A well-built e-cigarette can cost from 30-80 dollars and can last for many years. You can choose from a wide range of e-juice to refill your e-cigarettes.
2. Better Smell
Foul odor and bad breath from smoking cigarettes can be embarrassing. No matter what you do to cover it up, it's still there. With vaping, you can say goodbye to bad breath and foul smell on your hands and clothes. Vapors from your e-cigarette smell good and produce a sweet-smelling sensation that quickly disappears.
3. Better Health
Cigarette smoking can cause a huge amount of damage because of all the carcinogens found in them. E-cigarettes can reduce the risks of tobacco-related deaths because they don't contain tar, carbon monoxide, and cyanide that are produced by the combustion of tobacco. Studies have found that 91% of smokers had significant health improvements after switching to e-cigarettes.
4. Quitting Nicotine Use
With e-juice having plenty of flavors to choose from, you can also choose how much nicotine it should contain. You can start with a high amount of nicotine and slowly cut down to a lower concentration. Eventually, you'll be using an e-juice with zero nicotine.
5. No More Stains
Cigarette smoking can leave a yellow stain on your fingers, especially on your fingernails. You will be embarrassed to even shake someone's hand because of the stain and the foul smell. With e-cigarettes, you can proudly shake someone's hands without worrying about the disgusting stains that cigarettes can leave on your fingers.
Your health is your greatest wealth and asset. Choose the better option and enjoy good health for a longer life.


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Location: Syracuse, NY
Apply Now
- Salary, Comprehensive Benefit, and Retirement Programs
- The schedule is Monday through Friday, 36 hrs/wk, 3 - 12-hour shifts.
- This is a direct hire position
This RN position is responsible for the planning, implementing and evaluation of care for a given patient population within the established standards and practices of the Labor & Delivery department at the hospital.
Who Will Be a Great Fit?
- New York State Registered Professional Nurse license in good standing.
- At least one year of recent RN Labor & Delivery experience required.
- BLS, ACLS and PALS certifications
- Bachelors in Nursing


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The goal of spine treatment is to address the underlying problem, whether it be neck or back pain, pain down the arm or leg weakness. Sometimes these issues can be resolved through nonsurgical techniques, such as physical therapy or injections, but some patients require surgery.
All Coastal Spine surgeons are not only experienced but also fellowship trained. We are specialists in scoliosis, tumor surgery, failed back surgery repairs as well as minimally invasive spine surgery and all common surgical problems in the neck and low back. We are also knowledgeable regarding innovations such as disc replacement.
Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a type of procedure that enables spine surgeons to make the smallest incisions possible while achieving identical results compared to open spine surgery. Traditionally "open" spine surgery can involve a long incision, and muscles and ligaments are stripped from the spine to gain access during surgery. This can result in trauma to the surrounding tissues and blood loss, which could mean a longer recovery period.
MIS techniques help successfully treat back problems with far less interruption to normal muscles and ligaments with the same results. By using minimally invasive techniques, access and repair to the damaged disc or vertebrae is achieved without harming nearby muscles and tissues. MIS recovery time is shorter with less visible scars, reduced pain and minimal blood loss.
There are many different MIS procedures based on a patient's condition. These include:
For patients whose herniated discs or bone spurs in the neck affect only the nerve roots, a posterior discectomy and foraminotomy can be performed. Discectomy is the removal of the herniated portion of a disc to relieve the pressure on nearby nerves as they exit the spinal canal. The disc functions as a shock absorber between two bony vertebrae.
An injury, damage from a lifting accident or a twist may cause the center of the disc to break through the wall of the disc. When a disc herniates, the center can press on nearby nerves. In the neck this can cause arm, shoulder, scapula and in extreme cases, spinal cord compression. These cervical spine surgeries are minimally invasive and avoid spinal fusion, which minimizes recovery time. These procedures are done on an outpatient basis in a local surgery center.
In this type of minimally invasive spine surgery, our surgeon will remove a piece of damaged neck disc tissue to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. In some cases, we will fuse the vertebrae to stabilize the spine after the disc is removed. Most cervical fusions are done in an outpatient setting in a surgery center.
A laminoplasty is a procedure performed on patients suffering from spinal stenosis in the neck. This cervical spine surgery creates more space for the spinal cord and roots by cutting a "hinge" into one side of the lamina. This allows it to swing open like a door, which relieves pressure on the spinal cord by increasing the size of the spinal canal.
A discectomy surgery removes the herniated portion of a disc to relieve the pressure on nearby nerves. In a lumbar discectomy, the surgeon typically only removes the portion of the disc that is causing a problem, because the removal of a disc may cause instability in the joint. As a result, your surgeon may recommend this procedure include a fusion to re-stabilize the area.
The goal of fusion surgery is to graft bone between two vertebrae, thus stabilizing the spine. The procedure can be performed with another spinal surgery or on its own.
In this type of procedure, the space between discs is fused by approaching the spine through the abdomen, thus not affecting your back muscles and nerves. This procedure is performed on patients with relatively stable spines but with significant collapsed disc space and in cases of degenerative disc disease.
This spinal fusion surgery is similar to anterior lumbar interbody fusion. Here, the surgeon approaches the spine through the low back for patients with less stable spines. The surgeons at Coastal Spine perform this procedure exclusively through a minimally invasive technique.
The transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) utilizes a slightly different approach to the disc space from behind. If this approach can be used, it minimizes the exposure of the nerve roots to injury with similar fusion results to a PLIF.
During extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF), a surgeon accesses the disc space and fuses the lumbar spine from the side rather than the front or the back. This surgery may be completed to treat lumbar degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis and deformity, some lumbar disc herniations and certain types of stenosis. This type of fusion surgery can be used from parts of the thoracic spine to L4-5 in the lumbar spine. When this approach is utilized, it may avoid injury to the abdominal area.
A laminectomy removes part or all of the bone covering the spinal canal. This can free nerve roots, remove a tumor, remove a bone spur or allow your surgeon to perform certain types of fusion procedures. Lumbar laminectomies are performed through a minimally invasive technique with one-inch incisions.
We often use this procedure to treat recurrent disc herniations or in cases where scar tissue is involved. Laminectomy may also be used for spinal stenosis where the entire canal is narrowed.
If caught early, many cases of scoliosis can be remedied through nonsurgical techniques. However, if not treated, cervical spine surgery may be required to correct the curve and prevent pain and deformity.
Surgery for scoliosis is done through the placement of hooks, rods and screws. This can be followed by a fusion, so the corrected position is made permanent. The fusion may be done through a transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) or an extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF).
For more information, please visit www.backsurgery.com.


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Hadimba Road Manali Himachal Pradesh - 175129 India
Hotel Broadways Inn, Manali, with a well-organized structure and favorable location tackle people on a trip to your charming valley. Engulfed by breathing-taking scenery for the Himalayan ranges, this hotel brings about a fascinating setting associated with the travellers. The providing of a must facilities, delicious meals and cosy places to stay makes sure a casual holiday.
Hotel Broadways Inn is based at Hadimba Devi road. The close by visitor hot spots include Manu Temple (Approx. 2km) and Tibetan Monastery (Approx. 2km). The radiant Tibetan Monastery illustrates the Tibetan form of structure with hued frescoes. Lord Buddha could be the presiding deity with this monastery. Handicrafts of Asian country art and beautiful rugs would be the main attractions of this early host to worship. Van Vihar National Park, Solang Valley and Gauri Shankar temple are other interesting tourist attractions to check out in Manali.
Guests at Hotel Broadways Inn might be offered deluxe rooms, superior rooms, super deluxe rooms and suites. Each room is well-designated with right decorating. The clean design, lovely exterior view and a pleasant environment make the stay comfortable. These rooms are facilitated with amenities such as colour television and telephone.
Hotel Broadways Inn along with its range of important facilities provides efficiency and comfort and ease through the entire stay. Room service, internet, 24-hour front desk, elevators, parking, travel desk, round the clock safety and doctor-on-call would be the basic services wanted to the customers. The company centre of the hotel comes with facilities such as meeting facilities, business services, audio visual hardware, LCD/projector, meeting rooms and conference services. A health club and living room for renovation while banquet facilities for social features are some of the advanced features for this hotel. Patrons can enjoy eating fine food together with the tasty snacks and beverages at the in-house restaurant, bar and coffee shop.
Broadways Inn Hotel Manali Hotel Rooms & Rates Information - Get best deals, discounted rates on Hotel Rooms of Broadways Inn Hotel Manali at Indiahotelsroom.com. Check room availability, discounted and compare rates for standard, deluxe, luxury or suite room types for Broadways Inn Hotel Manali. Contact For Booking +91 9599 169 919
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Broadways Inn Hotel Manali Hotel location & How to reach hotel. Get directions information, online route map for Broadways Inn Hotel Manali from airport, railway station, bus depot or other locations at Indiahotelsroom.com
Broadways Inn Hotel Manali Reviews - Read 00 Travellers Real Reviews of Broadways Inn Hotel Manali. Rated as 4.0 of guest rating. Write a review and Read for Broadways Inn Hotel Manali Online at Indiahotelsroom.com


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WASHINGTON — Chinese scientists have traced how the SARS virus genetically evolved during last year's massive outbreak, fine-tuning itself in ways that may have spurred the spread of the deadly respiratory illness.
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The work provides more evidence that SARS jumps from animals to humans, possibly frequently. And it suggests, says one of the researchers, that prompt control of new cases is crucial, before viral strains have much time to adapt to people.
"If there's any lesson from this, it's stop it early before they know how to spread in humans," said evolution specialist Chung-I Wu of the University of Chicago, who helped China's SARS Epidemiology Consortium analyze the findings.
The consortium's research, which genetically fingerprinted virus samples from several dozen infected people and animals from China and Hong Kong, is being published in Friday's edition of the journal Science.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome emerged in southern China in late 2002, and went on to sicken more than 8,000 people worldwide before subsiding last June. In that time, it killed nearly 800 people.
Civet cats, mongoose-like animals that are sold in live food markets in southern China, are the top suspect for first spreading the disease to people. Thousands have been slaughtered as a preventive measure.
But scientists don't know whether some other animals, perhaps rodents who live in the same markets, are the ultimate source of SARS and infected both civets and people at the same time. Determining SARS' natural reservoir is a top research goal.
The new study doesn't shed light on that question.
Rapid genetic changes
However, it does suggest that the outbreak wasn't caused by a single species jump. Instead, the study says 11 people apparently were independently infected in the Pearl River Delta area of Guangdong Province beginning in November 2002 — patients whose virus seems identical to viral samples found in some captive civets.
"The paper is fascinating to me because what it shows, with this careful documentation, is that the virus has jumped from the palm civet into the human more than once," said David Brian, a microbiologist at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.
What we know about the diseaseThen came what the Chinese researchers dubbed the outbreak's "middle phase," 130 cases beginning in January 2003, most caught in a single hospital.
SARS underwent rapid genetic changes between November and the hospital-based infection, the study found, suggesting the mutations made person-to-person spread easier.
One of those mutated strains came to dominate the outbreak. The Chinese researchers linked that strain's first appearance to a patient who got sick in February — and whose doctor a few days later traveled to Hong Kong and spread the virus in the Metropole Hotel, the launching pad for global spread.
Then, mutations slowed for the remainder of the outbreak.
But last month, China reported the first of three new suspected SARS cases, and that patient was analyzed in the new study, too. His strain is much more similar to SARS found in civets than to any yet-documented human infection, the Science paper concludes.
That's not proof a civet infected the man, cautioned Dr. Mark Denison, a specialist in pediatric viral infections at Vanderbilt University.
But, "it makes the continual looking for a reservoir host important. It also states that these kinds of transmissions may not be rare," he said.
© 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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In this 3 Day Short Break you are joining in on our scheduled day tours, Golden Circle, Northern Lights Mini Bus Tour (during Northern Lights Season from September 1st to April 15th) and Whale Watching (from April 16th to August 31st). Also included are 2 nights accommodation with breakfast, according to the accommodation level of your choosing. You can easily add day tours, activities, extras, additional nights and more to this Short Break. Feel free to contact our sales office, or take a look at our day tours from Reykjavik section.
You can select between Budget, Comfort or Superior accommodation options when booking this break. More information on these options can be found here:
You can add pick-up from KEF INTL Airport upon arrival to Iceland for your Short Break. We also offer a drop-off to the Airport at the end of your journey. Simply add it as an extra when finalizing your booking here below. We offer a comfortable Minibus pick-up that brings you directly to your drop-off location.
Same as above but as a private pick-up, giving you time and space for a worry free commute at the start and end of your journey. Please contact Saga Travel sales team for further information and booking.
The first day of your short break and arrival to Reykjavík. Enjoy a comfortable check in at your hotel in Reykjavík and take the day off to get ready for your relaxing break.
During the Northern Lights season (September 1st – April 15th) you will join in on our scheduled Northern Lights Mini Bus Tour
Overnight: Reykjavík← Frequently Asked Questions
The Golden Circle is a popular destination for good reasons, it highlights Iceland's main attractions, the saga, geothermal wonders and powerful nature. We visit historical location such as Þingvellir National Park in addition to beautiful sites such as Gullfoss Waterfall and Geysir Hot Spring. Our local guides will share their knowledge and insights on the history and geology of the area, enhancing your experience and understanding of the area.
Overnight: Reykjavík← Frequently Asked Questions
Whale Watching Tour (from April 16th to August 31st)
From April 16th to August 31st you will join a Whale Watching tour on this day. During the Northern Lights season you will enjoy a free time in the City. The city offers a variety of options, take a look at our selection of tours and activities on our Tour Finder.
No accommodation is offered after the third day, as this is the last day of the short break.← Frequently Asked Questions
Reykjavík City ● Golden Circle ● Þingvellir National Park ● Geysir Hot Spring ● Gullfoss Waterfall ● Reykjavík ● Northern lights (Sept 1st – April 15th)● Whale Watching (Apr 16 – Aug 31)
2x Nights Accommodation
2x Breakfast (D2-D3)
Golden Circle classic
Northern Lights tour (Sep 1 – Apr 15) or Whale Watching tour (Apr 16 – Aug 31)


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A grove of Trees has been planted to celebrate the birth and christening of Alec Graham Ross Braithwaite as part of Trees for Life's work to restore the Caledonian Forest in the Highlands of Scotland.
With love from Auntie Lucy.
Birch, juniper, willow, aspen and bird cherry were planted at the RSPB reserve at Corrimony in autumn 2008.


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Set Dates & Guests
Know Before You Go...
Kyody Villa has tall rooms with natural wood and stone décor. Artistic windows open up to an ocean view. There's a balcony and outside barbeque, and equal bedrooms make Kyody Villa a good place for families that have older children. There's even a formal dining room, so a romantic honeymoon with a sunrise view is in good order. A hammock adds to the atmosphere, but if you prefer to sleep inside, the bedrooms have partial air-conditioning. The nearest beaches are the Grand Cul de Sac and Petit Cul de Sac, so you can take your pick.
Shawna , 214-350-6220 x9102
4 unique multi-level decks with hand-cut slate pool
Kyody Villa was originally designed and built by Miles Reincke for Russian ballet superstar, Mikhail Baryshnikov, a long-time resident of St. Bart's. Totally renovated, this two-story South American-style hideaway with the ambience of a manor offers two deluxe air-conditioned master bedrooms, each with its own bathroom and ocean views overlooking Grand Cul de Sac, Marigot, and Tortue Island.
The living room and dining rooms are complemented by a rustic country kitchen overlooking the immaculately kept courtyard garden.
Four totally unique outdoor patio decks surround the house and offer various views, outdoor dining, and plenty of sun or shade options. Kyody Villa's secluded hillside location offers peace, quiet, and complete privacy, as well as providing for a constant breeze to keep the house cool in the daytime and at the ideal sleeping temperature at night.
The hand-cut slate pool, resembling a lagoon, is located in the gardens, with palm trees, sun deck, and natural cliff side rock formations. The heat-absorbing quality of the slate, combined with a full day of direct sun exposure, make the pool both practical and fun to use year round. The pool and deck are both private and secluded.
Kyody Villa is an extraordinary property and a second home to its visitors.
Additional Amenities:
Kids TV/VCR/game room; cell phone; 2 personal safes; US Satellite. TV, DVD and computer in the small room in mezzanine before bedroom 2.
|Apr 15, 2019 to Nov 22, 2019
5 Night Minimum
|1-2 people
|3-4 people
|Nov 23, 2019 to Nov 29, 2019
7 Night Minimum
|1-4 people
|Nov 30, 2019 to Dec 14, 2019
5 Night Minimum
|1-2 people
|3-4 people
|Dec 15, 2019 to Jan 5, 2020
14 Night Minimum
|1-2 people
|Rates Upon Request
|3-4 people
|Jan 6, 2020 to Apr 14, 2020
7 Night Minimum
|1-2 people
|Rates Upon Request
|3-4 people
|Apr 15, 2020 to Nov 20, 2020
5 Night Minimum
|1-2 people
|3-4 people
|Nov 21, 2020 to Nov 27, 2020
7 Night Minimum
|1-4 people
|Nov 28, 2020 to Dec 14, 2020
5 Night Minimum
|1-2 people
|3-4 people
Notes on Rates:
- All rental rates are based on two persons per bedroom.
- This property charges rates in US Dollars (USD).
- Rates do not include: tax of 5%, island charges of 10%.
- Rates are subject to change.
Choosing the right villa is just the first step in creating the perfect vacation experience. We help you plan every element of your villa vacation, from rental cars to spa treatments, completely personalized to you.
- spa services
- chef/cook services
- butler service
- car rental
- restaurant reservations
- activity and sightseeing
- ferry/airport transfers
- grocery provisioning
- laundry service
- Bedroom 1: Main Level
- 1 King, Air Conditioning, Safe
- Ensuite Full Bath with Shower, Two Sinks
- Bedroom 2: Upper Level
- 1 King, Air Conditioning, Safe, Ocean View, Exterior Access
- Ensuite Full Bath with Shower, Two Sinks
Beds & Baths
Main House
- 1 Housekeeper: Off Sunday and holidays
- Balcony
- Bathtub
- BBQ Outside (Gas)
- CD Player
- Ceiling Fans
- Clothing Optional Pool
- Coffee Maker
- Computer
- Dishwasher
- Docking Station
- DVD Player
- Equal Bedrooms
- Family
- Fax
- Formal Dining Room
- Hammock
- Honeymoon
- Internet Access/WiFi
- Microwave
- Pool at Villa
- Private
- Safe
- Satellite
- Stereo System
- Sunrise View
- Telephone
|9.8 x 23.0 ft.
|Air Conditioning
|A/C in bedrooms
|Hillside in Marigot
|Nearest beach: Grand Cul de Sac, Petit Cul de Sac.
|Your personal concierge will greet you at the airport or ferry dock on arrival, assist you with picking up your rental car and will guide you to the villa where you will receive an orientation. Departure transfers not included.
|Free american long distance calling.
|(5.00 out of 5)
|Traveler Satisfaction
|100% Traveler Satisfaction
|# of Reviews
|1 for Kyody Villa
Relaxing Stay at Villa Kyody
Kyody Villa, St. Barts villa review
My wife and I celebrated our 25th anniversary at Kyody Villa on St. Barth's. The villa was excellent, with constant breezes to keep things cool and mosquito-free. The on-island staff were excellent - our water was shut off due to construction during our visit, but someone was onsite within 30 minutes of notification to switch the house over to the cistern system. We had a very relaxing stay and hope to return.
My experience with WhereToStay was excellent, and Shawna was very patient and informative with my endless questions.


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Add a day of excitement, and a few dozen downloads
The last few tips have gone deep into detail and been kind of lengthy. So, I will keep this one brief!
A Flash Tournament is an opportunity for you to take a day that you have a relatively full tee sheet but no real events scheduled, and create a huge buzz at the course, a great golfer experience for the day, and capture a bunch of new downloads all at once. The most recent Flash Tournament a client course of ours held yielded 31 new downloads and a great time had by all.
Here's the plan:
- Pick the day---Saturdays are usually very good because the course is full
- Build a Leaderboard in the app---We highly recommend a Skins game because it is competitive for everyone and doesn't embarrass a not so great golfer by blasting his score all over the place. Plus you don't have to worry about handicapping or flighting it
- Choose your prizes---hats, sleeves of balls, towels, rounds of golf, food or drinks
- As each golfer comes to check in, alert him/her to the fact that you're hosting a "Free Skins Game" today that the only requirement to be 'in the hunt' is to download and keep score in the app
- Broadcast the leaderboard on televisions in your clubhouse and at the bar, and have a handful of food and drink specials---make it a complete Skins day with Potato Skins, etc on the menu, and keep the buzz going about who is going to win all day
- Award your prizes
- A couple weeks later, send out a push notification hosting another Flash Tournament, or just any general reason for the golfer to come back---after having such a fun time in the last event, he will be sure to return
- Be the FUN Course in your market!
Need any help setting one of these up---let me know: 858.437.9262, or email@example.com


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READING, PA — Ryan Lee Gehris could not help but feel the gravity of his visit to City Park on Thursday.
The 44-year-old has spent much of his adult life in California but Berks County was his first home.
Gehris remembers riding his Schwinn Scrambler through the streets of Muhlenberg.
At 12, he sold hats, pins and shirts to help raise money for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in City Park.
His maternal grandfather, Leon Charles Stein, is listed on the memorial, third from the top. He was killed while serving in the Navy during Vietnam.
On Thursday, Gehris was back in Reading, perched on his beach cruiser while thinking about what it all meant to him.
"I thought this would be a perfect place to stop first," he said. "It's wild to come back in this way, to be standing by this memorial, standing in this city."
Gehris is reaching the final leg of his 3,000-mile journey from his home in San Diego. He has made the trek on his beach cruiser, which has been outfitted to carry his camping gear, food and supplies. An American flag posted on the front of the cruiser rippled perfectly as he pedaled through the Reading park.
Dubbed "Pedaling for Pattie," the cross-country bike ride is a tribute to Gehris' mom, Pattie Stein, who died in 2001. It also serves as a fundraiser for the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation, which helps provide college scholarships and educational counseling to all students who have lost a parent in the line of duty.
"My mother was 14 years old when she lost her dad on July 9, 1965, in Vietnam," Gehris said. "I felt like this idea hit home with me because my mother was a Gold Star kid."
Gehris dreamed up the trip about a year and a half ago, while trying to figure out the next step in his life. He said he felt "bored and complacent" and hoped to do something important.
Eventually, he settled on the journey across America.
"This is all in memory of my grandfather, my grandmother Betty and my mother, Pattie," he said.
He said he's had some assistance from a few dozen loyal supporters who are helping him make his way. He said he's received a lot of support from VFW posts, as well.
"At this point, I feel like I've never met a stranger," Gehris said. "People have come out of the woodwork to help me and support me and cheer me on."
The journey has been planned in 50-mile increments with a strong assist from Google Maps, he said. Gehris has stayed at some cheaper hotels, but lately he's been camping because funds are tight.
"I underestimated what it takes to go this distance," he said. "What it takes financially, mentally emotionally."
His cruiser, which weighs about 85 pounds with all the gear, has held up reasonably well, especially since it was made for the California boardwalks Gehris typically travels. He's had only three flat tires along the way.
He said he's been amazed at how receptive everyone is to his message and mission.
"They want to know what you're doing," he said. "When you tell them, they want to help you. They want to invite you to their house to sleep on their couch. They want to buy dinner for you and take you home to meet their family."
In about two weeks, the trek will end in New York City, where Gehris hopes to continue to spread his message.
"We shouldn't take our freedoms for granted," he said. "There's a high cost."
In Berks County, he planned to spend time with his dad, Daniel, and his siblings, Steven and Katie. For the entire trek, Gehris has carried the flag that was draped over his grandfather's coffin when he was killed. He plans to pass off his grandfather's military medals to his nieces and nephews.
After about 45 minutes at City Park, Gehris made his way down the hill, pedaling off for a reprieve from the heat, a cold drink and a chance to plot the rest of his day.
"It's a spiritual journey, a mission, a pilgrimage," he said.
Contact Matthew Nojiri: 610-371-5062 or email@example.com.


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An alien insect or small animal in the sand. It reminds me the beetles I covered with sand at the beach, when I was a child on vacation. And they always found their way out to the light, so quickly...living their tracks behind.
¨Red and Slim found the two strange little animals the morning after they heard the thunder sounds. They knew that they could never show their new pets to their parents.¨
Isaac Asimov. Youth


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Recreation Connection gives exclusive reductions on tickets and services to members of Printing Industries Credit Union. The opening of the Highline Trail is a major step in linking trails to each other and creating connections throughout the valley. If you're an activity skilled needing continuing schooling credits in your NCCAP / NAAPCC certification or would identical to to broaden your information of the occupation, then Activity Connection is the resource for you! I believe most individuals with some sort of military connection should buy the discount tickets, and it is not limited to these dwelling within the DC space with Pentagon entry. Reposted jobs will even be listed in the profession connection electronic mail of the week they are re-printed. Recreation Connection handles ticket discounts for a lot of corporate HR departments throughout the country.
Subscribe to the Chino Connection e-mail checklist and get the updates sent on to your inbox! I actually have additionally included hyperlinks to two genuine early silent films in order that the reader can examine this recreation to the actual thing. Several walk-up service places are available for ticket purchases in Los Angeles and Orange County. Recreation Connection at the moment offers special offers and services to over 2500 organizations nationwide. Whenever we're trying to find one thing new and exciting to attempt we all the time test the recreation connection web site first to see if they've any new occasions and more often than not they do. The premier on-line exercise useful resource for activity and recreation professionals. Please be aware that program availability and schedules might change after publication of Connections.
Once you're a registered group with Recreation Connection, your staff/members are capable of entry our web site and order their tickets on their own. With over 25 years of expertise within the worker services discipline, Recreation Connection was created to supply organizations of all sizes with a whole and complete low cost ticket and companies program. The Activity Connection discussion board requires a legitimate account login to take part in our community. But deal-seekers also should purchase direct by Recreation Connection's web site For what it's value, we have found that the lineup of points of interest sold by this source changes extra usually than with different resellers.
Disneyland: Recreation Connection sells one park per day and Park Hopper tickets to Disneyland, at prices $8-29 off the gate price of those multi-day tickets. Recreation Connection provides 121RN members reductions on film tickets, theme parks, performs and shows, concert events, and sporting events. Job listings will have to be resubmitted after expiration to remain on the profession connection longer than forty five days.
When on the Recreation Connection landing web page, click on on present members click on right here" after which sort AHFCU below the corporate identify when inserting your order. Recreation Connection was based in 1995 by employee companies professional Bobbie Menkes. As the program director for Recreation Connection, I take great interest in what our customers should say about us. Where there is an issue, I know there is a answer and a option to convey it to our prospects in a polite and useful manner.


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In my continuing series of posts on misconceptions around veganism, I continue today with a question that's asked with a surprising amount of regularity, "Would you be vegan if you were stranded on a desert island?"
Outside of that actor from Lost who is vegan, I personally have never known any vegans who have suddenly found themselves trapped on a desolate island with an imaginary friend made out of a Wilson soccer ball or an iPhone made from a conch.
Yet this question still comes up to vegans sometimes…
Would you be vegan on a desert island?
I think the purpose of this question when asked by non-vegans is to test the vegan's resolve. They want to know, just how deep does this thing go?
Would the vegan waste away, too hungry to even spell out HELP with rocks in the sand?
It's kind of a no-win question, honestly.
If the vegan says, "Yep, if it came down to a life or death situation, I would sharpen a rock to use as a weapon against a wild boar or grab fish with my bare hands," then the listener feels vindicated.
The listener thinks, "Aha! When push comes to shove, you'd eat meat too. You're a hypocrite."
And if the vegan says, "No, even if a bird came up and perched on my shoulder, I would rather die of hunger than harm," then the listener is left thinking that the vegan is a bit of a martyr or a zealot.
At the essence of this question is the curiosity, "How vegan are you?"
But here's the thing. I don't base my day-to-day life on what if scenarios. I don't alter today's choices based on worst-case hypotheses.
If someone broke into my house and threatened to hurt me, I would have to fight back. But I don't go around in this world hitting people.
If some guy was stranded on a desert island, he might have to drink his own urine, but I doubt that they'll be sticking a tropical umbrella in that and serving it at my corner bar anytime soon.
Personally, if I was stranded on a deserted tropical beach, I think I'd follow any animals on the island around and see what they were eating like berries or foliage. Perhaps I'd procure bananas or drink the water from inside of a coconut.
But first, I think I'll just stay away from anyone advertising a three-hour tour. (A three hour tour…)
What we would do in an imaginary set of circumstances makes very little difference in comparison to what we do when we have the ability to make other choices.
When I have the choice to go with a more compassionate option, then that is what I do. And since thus far I haven't crash-landed or shipwrecked, that's working out pretty well for me.
I have access to fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, mushrooms, and legumes. And so did anyone who has ever asked me that question.
This series on misconceptions around veganism continues here with: Is Yeast Vegan?


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Who was Christianity's greatest enemy in the book of Acts?
And its greatest friend, in the end?
Takeaway: Religious divisions predict nothing.
Meet the Darth Vader of Ancient Judea: Paul's Dramatic Entrance
Paul's first appearance in the bible came at the end of chapter 7. He is shown presiding over the stoning of a Christian leader named Stephen, who had been sentenced to death for being an insufferable ass.
Stephen was a model Christian, "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5, Stephen's bible debut) and "full of God's grace and power" (6:8). In some ways Stephen was a lot like Christ. So much so that some mean ol' "bible scholars" argue that the story of Stephen is just a retelling of the story of Christ. Some parallels I offer for your measured consideration:
- Like Christ, Stephen annoyed the public and the religious leadership by pointing out their unjust and hypocritical behavior.
- Like Christ, Stephen stood before his butthurt persecutors and told them God was going to kick those butts.
- Like Christ, Stephen proclaimed a new kingdom of God, i.e., he committed treason by making people think about the overthrow of the government.
- Like Christ, Stephen died beseeching God to take pity on his own executioners.
Stephen's entire story is in Acts chapters 6 and 7, for those of you following along at home.
At the end of 7, the people stoning Stephen "laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul." The purpose of these people taking their coats off was to afford themselves more freedom of movement as they chucked rocks at Stephen's head until his skull caved in. The reason they laid the coats at Saul's feet and not someone else's feet was because Saul was the man presiding over the execution. He made sure no one made off with their stuff while they participated in the good times.
Fun Fact: Saul was Paul. It was the same man. This is a point of fact first made clear in Acts 13:9, almost in passing: "Yadda yadda, Saul — by the way he also goes by 'Paul' when he's talking to Roman people — anyway so Paul, yadda yadda." (New Cynical Version. For the New International Version, see the BibleGateway entry.)
While Stephen was getting stoned, he begged "Lord Jesus" to receive his departing spirit and, by the way, to "don't hold this sin against them."
That's the last thing Stephen ever said.
The next chapter, Acts 8, opens with:
"And Saul approved of their killing him." *
Now we see that in addition to serving as a sort of coat check at a restaurant that only served Christians — rare, bloody if you please, hold the bun — it was Saul's job to say, "Ready, aim — whoa, hold on there, I didn't say 'fire'. Oh, okay. Right you are."
The second sentence of the chapter reads:
"On that day, a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria."
By that alone we can safely assert that Stephen's execution was the major event that rallied the anti-Christian movement to a fever pitch — and Paul, having presided over that event, became a hero of the movement as a whole.
But we don't even need our powers of inference to argue that Paul was the figurehead that exemplified and embodied what it meant to be a good, clean-cut bigot. Chapter 8, verse 3 spells out that Paul was not only a poster boy for Christian-hating, but was zealously committed to eliminating the church once and for all:
"Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison." (8:3)
Paul's role as Persecutor-in-Chief is clinched at the beginning of chapter 9:
"Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem."
So Paul got formal permission from the most powerful religious figure in the region to go to a Christian refuge and "drag off" more men and women to the pokey for safekeeping.
Vader Joins the Rebellion and Writes Its Manifesto: Paul's Conversion and Apostleship
And so he went. But on the way to Damascus, Paul had a little run-in with Jesus in which Paul instantly became the most committed Christian in the history of Christianity.
Yeah. Kind of a sudden turn, I know. There's more to the story than that. Read Acts 9.
For now, consider this: Paul, formerly the Supreme Commander of the Imperial War on the Christian Rebellion, ended up writing half of the New Testament. He didn't know he was writing for any "testament" — the Christian canon was compiled and codified much later. Paul was just writing letter after letter to various nations, churches, and individuals.
In his letters, or "epistles", Paul rebuked straying Christians, praised committed ones, and doled out advice and theology by the truckload. Paul's words became the basis of a massive portion of the sum total of Christian thought.
Paul, erstwhile Church Enemy Number One, made an about-face and came to exemplify what it meant to be a Christian.
Like Stephen, Paul's victim of yore, Paul spoke loudly and fearlessly about Christ, traveling throughout the known world to spread the word. He defied the dominant religious regime and warned of its promised demise at the hands of God. He suffered and was imprisoned (and likely executed) at the hands of persecutors just as he had made Christians suffer in the time before his conversion.
You never know where your friends may come from.
Your best friend might even be the person or thing you fear most. Expect the unexpected.
Postscript: Don't Judge a Stormtrooper by Its Armor
There's a new book out called Zealot. Maybe you heard of it. It's an examination of the man Jesus Christ. The book is raising some eyebrows because it was written by a Muslim.
Back in July, a Fox News interviewer questioned Aslan's motives for writing a book about Jesus, and in characteristic Fox News form completely ignored the actual content of the book.
Her passive-aggressive implication was that Aslan, being a Muslim, is probably just trying to undermine Christians' faith with his book, and that he should be stoutly ignored as a possible enemy agent against the church.
Obviously the interviewer never gave much thought to the book of Acts, Paul's miraculous conversion, and what it means to followers of the Way in our time.
I find her lack of faith. Disturbing.
*All bible quotes are from the New International Version, except the one that says "yadda yadda". That one is from my own version that I'm making up as I go along.