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saga/title/fandom: Touched: Twisted Up (X-Men)
author: Viridian5
rating/genre:(NC-17) - Drama/Romance
warnings: slash, sexual content, language
summary: Shatterstar struggles with his newfound emotions, while Rictor struggles with himself.
comments/disclaimers: They belong to Marvel Comics. No infringement intended, and I'm not making any profit from this.
Sequel to "Loves Company" in the Touched series and even more AU. I start to diverge from the X-Force series midway through the after-nightclub conversation Rictor and Shatterstar had in X-Force #43. The Age of Apocalypse never happened.
Twisted Up
Rictor laughed. "This is worse than I thought."
"The dubbing is blindingly obvious. Substandard," Shatterstar agreed.
"They cut out the whole conversation about getting her to sit on his face too. No sex talk and no four-letter words. I guess I should have expected TNT to go this way."
"If this version is heavily edited and badly dubbed, why are you watching?"
"I could use a laugh, and I like the film."
Shatterstar watched Ric's hands. After his recent confession of his feelings, he found it hard to look at Ric's face. "I don't see why you have to hold on to the remote." Or idly caress the buttons.
Neither had said a word about it since then.
"I can't take your channel surfing during the commercials. I've never had an epileptic fit, and I don't wanna start now."
"You know I'm fast enough to flip through all 215 channels during the commercial break."
"Yeah, but you never flip through them just once. I don't want to miss anything."
"Most of your world's commercials are inept."
"Well, yeah. But you don't get the cultural context either. It's like Tabs trying to make you watch the John Hughes oeuvre. No way you could understand them."
"They were neither funny nor insightful. I also doubt they reflect the adolescent experience."
"And nobody died. Unlike in this film."
Before, Shatterstar had been curious about the movie purely because Ric professed to like it. Now he felt a spark of his own interest. "I thought this was a film about a high school."
"Kind of. But it's also a film about somebody picking off his enemies."
Shatterstar glanced at Ric to confirm that his friend indeed had the "gotcha!" smile he expected. Yes. Instead of admitting defeat, Shatterstar leaned back into the couch and trained his eyes back on the screen. Ric briefly gripped his shoulder, a comradely gesture that made Shatterstar's heart jump.
What practical use did these feelings have? They clouded his mind and reason. They made his body react in unpredictable ways. They fixated him on his friend to the point that he struggled not to stare at or touch Ric. Surely honor should be bond enough without needing this physical pull to cement comrades together. Honor and loyalty would make Shatterstar watch Ric's back, help defend him, and kill anyone who tried to hurt him.
Knowing that Ric knew about his feelings left him with an unfamiliar sense of shame. How Ric must pity him for his confusion and his unrequited emotions.
Yet Ric had gripped his shoulder, so he must not find him too pathetic. That night Ric had stroked the side of his face in a gentle brush of callused fingers over the black starburst pattern he had around his left eye.
Ric had kissed him.
Even the memory of it hit Shatterstar like the adrenaline rush battle gave him. Fingers stroking through his hair, a hard body pressing and melting against his, and surprisingly soft lips brushing against his. And they had belonged to his best friend, the person he cared most for, the only person he'd ever cared for in this way. He knew how to read bodies, and everything in Ric's posture and movements had spoken of reciprocation, of wanting more.
Until Ric had started to shake, becoming rigid in Shatterstar's arms. Frightened. By himself, by Shatterstar, or by what they were doing? Probably all three.
Ric had intended that kiss to be proof that Shatterstar hadn't been feeling what he'd said he was. It hadn't worked out that way.
Ric had said that they couldn't go any further with it.
These thoughts didn't profit Shatterstar at all, so he returned his attention to the movie and found himself drawn into it despite the cultural differences. Was it jealousy that made him so... bitter over the way JD and Veronica immediately acknowledged and consummated their mutual attraction?
Then the deaths started. Shatterstar watched with increasing interest as JD found inventive if underhanded ways to dispatch Veronica's enemies and realized that he noticed ironies that would have eluded him not so long ago. He shook his head as JD became corrupted from the rush of having the power of life and death--his increasing bloodlust making him forget his cause and intentions--and the madness that had apparently lurked within him all along grew and flourished, to Veronica's horror. When she refused to help him anymore, he turned on her as well.
The confrontation in the boiler room showed little martial skill on the part of the combatants, but much spirit. The badly injured JD recognizing himself to be a maddened creature, beyond salvation, and immolating himself shocked Shatterstar beyond measure. A warrior's choice, yet what was it doing in a movie from this culture? Veronica saluted him and set about achieving their dream of a school without castes in a non-violent fashion.
And through it all, their love for one another was obvious, overwhelming. It left Shatterstar very disturbed.
Rictor muttered something, drawing Shatterstar's attention. Asleep, Ric had burrowed into the back of the couch a bit, the remote sliding from his slack hand. The recent battle had been a hard one, a test of endurance and strength. As Shatterstar rescued the remote, Ric started to slide sideways himself until he came to a halt, his face against Shatterstar's bare arm.
There were so many things one could learn about Rictor if he let one get in close. One thing was that his body always had a mild vibration running through it....
Shatterstar's self-control could withstand this. He was master of his own body, and he would will the erection away. He would not think about the hot breath or stubble rubbing against his skin.
Ric breathed hard and started to move. "Stop," he whispered in Spanish, sounding panicked and angry. "I'll kill you if you get any closer."
"Ric. Julio, wake up," Shatterstar answered in the same language. He knew that people often used touch to comfort, but he didn't know if it would be appropriate here. Or if he wanted to touch Ric simply because he wanted to touch Ric and not out of any concern for his friend.
As Ric twisted, sliding down into Shatterstar's lap, his hands started to come together into a familiar gun-like shape, something Shatterstar had to stop immediately. If Ric had ever used his powers in his sleep before, the whole compound would have known about it once the floor started to shake or the building to come down, but that didn't mean he shouldn't intervene here. "No, Ric. Julio, it's okay." He had to strain to keep Ric's hands apart, odd since he was much stronger than Ric was. Fear must have been lending Ric strength.
Of course, Rictor didn't need to use his hands to direct his ability. However, that seemed to be the course the dream wanted to take, so stopping that might prevent it all.
This wasn't working, and he could feel bones grinding beneath his fingers. "Julio!" Shatterstar let go of Ric's wrists, noticing only then that his grip had warped and bent the thin, cheap metal bracelets Ric wore.
But Ric's hands remained separated, and he opened his eyes a little, showing a glimpse of their odd brown against black. "Shatty?" he asked softly, sleepily, as he looked up at his friend.
"You were having a dream."
"Was it The Right you fought?"
"No. Guatemala," Ric murmured before he slipped back into sleep.
On Shatterstar's lap. With his worry ended, he couldn't help being overwhelmed by that. He should move Rictor away.
But he didn't. Instead, his hand, which no longer deigned to follow his brain's commands, started to stroke the back of Ric's neck, trying to work some of the stress out of the tense, bunched muscles, which earned him what sounded like a contented sigh. He missed the long fall of hair that had once tumbled to the small of Ric's back, much like his own in span. One day recently Ric had come back with his hair shorn to jaw length, an abrupt change.
When Shatterstar had asked why, Ric had only shrugged. He didn't understand it himself, and, if it bothered him that he didn't, Ric never showed it. Ric had only a few emotions he ever wanted to show, and doubt and confusion didn't have entries on that list.
The impetuous action and lack of self-knowledge smacked of mental instability, yet emotions seemed to be leading Shatterstar down the same path. Why was he petting his friend? Because he wanted to. Why did he want to? He had no answers.
Shatterstar missed that mane, unhappy that so much of it had been taken off before he had a chance to stroke its length or wrap his hands in it. Instead he had to content himself with Ric's now shoulder length hair. Fortunate that it grew so quickly. And he knew now that it did feel as soft as it looked. The red highlights the Arizona sun had placed in it had begun to darken back to brown now that X-Force had moved its operations to New York.
"If I had hair like yours, I wouldn't ever cut it," Ric said against Shatterstar's knee.
"Hair like mine? Are we referring to color or texture or--"
"It feels like mink. Like really soft fur." Ric turned over to look up at Shatterstar. He seemed troubled.
With Ric talking and awake, Shatterstar realized that he shouldn't have taken advantage of Ric's unconsciousness so. "I apologize for taking liberties with you in your sleep."
"I...." Ric shook his head. "I liked it. I don't want to like it. I'm not used to--" He made a gesture with his fingers that seemed to suggest the depths of his bewilderment. Then he noticed the bracelets.
Before Ric could use them as a distraction, Shatterstar quickly answered, "I bent them a bit in my effort to restrain you from using your powers in your sleep." Bent them "a bit." Some of the once round bracelets were now long, shallow ovals, while others had sharp points where the metal had folded. It wouldn't be easy to return them to their original shape.
It might be impossible.
"I never hurt anybody in my sleep before," Ric said.
"I thought it wise not to give you a chance."
Ric's lips twisted up in amusement. "Gracias."
"De nada."
Ric closed his eyes and took a deep breath. "I'm not used to being touched by people who don't wanna hurt me with it. My reactions are all twisted. I'm seriously fucked up, 'Star."
"I don't mind." Maybe Ric simply needed time and space to talk himself into it. Shatterstar could provide that. "Is high school really like that?"
"Like in the movie. Heathers."
"Dunno. Never went to high school. I was too busy doing my own version of your living weapon thing. But I doubt it."
Shatterstar forgot sometimes that Rictor didn't have what many considered to be the average youthful experiences for an American or a Mexicano.
"You don't mind?" Ric asked suddenly.
"I don't mind." Shatterstar knew a loosening of defenses when he heard it.
Ric took advantage of Shatterstar's distraction to reclaim the remote but didn't get off of Shatterstar's lap. "Conan should be starting on USA in a few minutes. You can critique their swordwork."
A true warrior knew when to strike and when to wait.
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subset: commoncrawl


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50 Greatest WordPress Travel Themes For Blogs, Lodges And Agencies 2018
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Manchester City are among a host of prominent European clubs showing interest in Lyon midfielder Tanguy Ndombele after his impressive season in Ligue 1.
The 21-year-old has been on loan from Amiens, but Lyon have an €8million option to buy which they will use, with the player's value having skyrocketed over the past year.
According to Paris United, a reliable source for French transfer news, City along with Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Liverpool and Roma are showing interest in Ndombele.
Two other clubs, Tottenham and Juventus, have already opened talks with Lyon about signing the French under-21 international, with Manchester United also set to 'take action'.
L'AS Roma, Arsenal, Liverpool et Man City ont pour l'instant montrer un simple intérêt pour le joueur.
— Paris United (@parisunited6) June 2, 2018
City's interest in Ndombele was first revealed by Goal journalist Sam Lee on the City Watch Podcast in mid-March, with Sam telling us that Blues scouts had been monitoring him.
An athletic and technically gifted defensive midfielder, Ndombele has the ideal profile to replace 33-year-old Brazilian ace Fernandinho when his City spell comes to an end.
Napoli's Jorginho is the main target to reinforce the midfield this summer and replace the outgoing Yaya Touré, but if City's interest in Ndombele is solid, they may have no choice but to move for him now or watch him join neighbours Manchester United, Tottenham or another of the interested clubs.
Pick up a limited edition Manchester City Premier League Champions shirt – while stocks last!


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Pattern Mixing (conservatively)
Pattern mixing is not that appealing to me but for some reason I find myself playing around with outfits that break an old rule. Many fashion rules are deeply ingrained in me from childhood. Living in a small rural town where people had strong beliefs, and even to a point, were judgmental, influenced me more than I realized until adulthood. My natural impulse is to follow rules and usually do what is expected but sometimes the rebel in me comes out, especially in fashion. It doesn't bother me at all to break old fashion rules anymore, I even embrace doing so. Pattern mixing is something that I don't wear well, and that is the reason, I am not all over it. But sometimes I can put an outfit together, that mixes patterns that I really like. This outfit is one of those. I am wearing a black and white window pane button up shirt, a black and tan southwestern graphic cardigan, black jeans and booties with a thin leopard belt. The contrasting tan bag took me from conservative to a little edgy. I grew up, in a time, when your bag should match your shoes. Now, mixing black and tan is probably one of my favorite fashion trends.
Thanks for stopping by!
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Located on the seventh floor of the Tate Modern is the bar which is not run by an independent caterer but it is 100 per cent part of the art space, with all profits supporting the gallery. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the Tate Modern Bar delivers one of the best views of London. http://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern/eat-drink-and-shop
Back to All Events
Earlier Event: October 29iVisit.... the Puppet Theatre in Angel
Later Event: October 31iVisit.... the Most Haunted House in London


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This is the lovely, and preternaturally stylish and glamorous, Jane Aldridge of wellknown blog Sea of Shoes. I love her as she loves shoes, Japan and small dogs even more than I do.
'Style yourself: inspired advice from the world's fashion bloggers'.
Jane wrote the introduction to this new style guide, which the library has recently acquired. (It also features advice from Susie Bubble and Tavi). It's not on the shelves yet and I can't wait till it arrives – it looks like a goodie. You can read about the book here, reserve it here, or read an interview with Jane (about this book) here!
Dip-dyed hair.
What once looked cute and was taken up by our favourite reality-celebrity, Lauren Conrad, has now trickled down to Snooki and JWoww. That makes it questionable and perhaps a trend to skip.


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Akiko Takizawa: Where We Belong | Text by Akiko Takizawa, Paul Thirkell
Akiko Takizawa: Where We Belong | Text by Akiko Takizawa, Paul Thirkell
Published by Actes Sud/HSBC, 2015
285 x 220 mm, hardcover, 104 pages, 45 colour
A recipient of the 2014 HSBC Prize for Photography, Japanese photographer Akiko Takizawa (born 1971) prints on traditional Japanese paper using a delicate technique called Collotype, working from a studio in Kyoto. This publication documents the artist's return to her grandparents' home in Northern Japan.
"Her practice centers around the 150-year-old Collotype printing process, which originated in France, but has now been all but discontinued on a worldwide level. For the past few years she has worked closely with Benrido in Kyoto, Japan, the last remaining Collotype company in the world, to produce her prints.
Takizawa's work takes in many themes, which include: home, family, a sense of loss, displacement, death and the afterlife, and what it means to live in the modern world. The majority of her work focuses on her home country, and Japanese culture and traditions feature strongly. For example, in one series, Osorezan (2012), Takizawa explores the Japanese belief that there is not a clear boundary between life and death. The images were taken in Aomori at the north end of the main Island in Japan where people flock from all over the country to 'connect' with lost relatives and friends. It is thought that after death, human spirits rise up into the mountains, and at Mount Osore or 'Fear Mountain' it is possible to speak to the deceased through a blind shaman. While queuing to see the shaman, strangers often open up to each other and share their stories, says Takizawa.
"I am constantly questioning this modern time we are living in," Takizawa writes in an artist statement. "I was fascinated by the contrast between Japan as a fast, modern society, which is dominated by high technology and people who live in isolation, and what I have seen in Osorezan – how people secretly believe in such supernatural things, hope to get some answers for their lives, and open up to talk to strangers. By capturing such people in a specific place through photography I hope to understand the world we are living in, and where we belong." British Journal of Photography online


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fall tones/
| pants calvin klein
| shoes
| purse
| hat
| necklace and bracelets
| watch
A little apology for being so MIA last week on the blog - life has inevitably picked up its pace -
and now look where we are! the official first day of fall.
It makes me feel a twinge of sadness to see summer go,
and to see how busy I am really causes me to put the blog to the side (for a little).
But...I've got a little getaway coming up so that is something to look forward to.
- - -
Anyway - it's now fall!
A few weeks ago I picked up this gorgeous BCBG generation hat at Nordstrom Rack,
and it was love at first sight.
It was kind of peeeerrrfffeect timing because lately I've been not sure to do with my hair.
This covers it up and it makes everything look instantly polished -
with the right accessories and colors, it cinches it all together and I feel so dressed up.
The rest of the look is a bunch of pieces from here and there,
but I am getting slowly into the fall jewel tones and deeper, richer colors like maroon and navy.
These ponte skinnies are SO comfortable, they almost feel like leggings but they have a cool leather detail around the 5th pocket.
(also...they are calvin klein...but I got them at Costco...unbelievable!!!)
I'm thinking the next thing I need to do is invest in a nice plum colored lipstick and I'll be pretty much set!
It's not usually my thing to let the accessories do the talking but I've got to try it again more often.
already dreaming up new looks with this hat! can't wait.
ciao, xo!


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U.N. Thumbs Up Africa On Treatment Of Refugees
The secretary-general of the United Nations has told African leaders that the west has much to learn from them about the treatment of refugees.
Antonio Guterres
Speaking during the opening day of the African Union Summit in Ethiopia, he said the continent has kept borders open to millions of displaced people despite its limited resources.
Africa hosts more than a quarter of the world's refugees and internally displaced - a total of more than 20 million people.
Their plight is high on the summit's agenda, along with the AU's attempts to build a continent-wide free trade zone.
A deal was signed last year but it's yet to come into effect as only 19 countries have ratified the agreement.
Reports say the AU's new chairman, Egypt's president Abdel Fatah Al-Sisi of Egypt is likely to be less effective at pushing that agreement through than his predecessor, Paul Kagame of Rwanda.
Previous: Egypt's Al-Sisi Takes Over From Kagame As A.U. Chairman Next: No End In Sight For Oil Spills – NOSDRA


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Nurturing Authentic Friendships With The Help Of God
Relationships matter to God.
Our relationship with Him, as well as our relationship with others, truly matter to Him.
With His help, we can nurture relationships with the richest of feelings.
When was the last time you experienced the hand of God in the mist of your relationships with family, friends, or strangers?
For me, it was a Wednesday evening in the middle of the dinner rush, and I couldn't have been more grateful. To read more about how God blessed my life that evening in the most unexpected way, head on over to Be Thee Inspired, where I'm guest posting today.


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Loudoun County, Va. — The Jeffrey C. Fowler Memorial Scholarship committee is pleased to announce Loudoun County High School senior Spencer Davis, Freedom High School senior Amanda Peña and Potomac Falls High School senior Stephanie Son as the 2018 recipients of the JCFM scholarship.
Davis, Peña and Son will each receive a $1,000, nonrenewable scholarship to use at an accredited higher education institution starting in the 2018-2019 school year.
"As our scholarship continues to grow, we were so grateful to get a glimpse into the lives of so many fantastic applicants this year," JCFM Scholarship Committee member Natalie Fowler said. "While the pool this year was as competitive as ever, Spencer, Amanda and Stephanie all stood out from their peers. All three have a tremendous passion for sports, and through active participation in their communities, have passed that passion along to future generations."
The Jeffrey C. Fowler Memorial Scholarship recognizes a graduating senior from Loudoun County Public Schools each school year. To apply for the scholarship, LCPS seniors must write a 500-word essay titled "How My Passion for Sports Has Influenced My Life."
Spencer Davis was a four-year member of the swim program at Loudoun County, who plans to attend the University of Virginia in the fall. On top of her athletic endeavors, Davis is an avid participant in global young scientists programs. In 2018, Davis presented her findings to more than 800 cardiologists, nurses and other healthcare professionals at Cardiology 2018 in Arizona.
"Spencer continually works to improve herself as a student, a member of the Loudoun County community, and most importantly, as an individual," Loudoun County Director of School Counseling Daniel Croyle wrote. "She is dedicated to learning [and] spends time trying to improve herself as a student by participating in programs to enhance her academic thirst."
Amanda Peña was a captain of the volleyball program at Freedom, who plans to attend George Mason University in the fall. On top of her athletic endeavors, Peña was an active member of her community, who serves as a youth volleyball coach with Dulles South Youth Sports.
"Amanda models the best attributes of a leader and student athlete," Dulles South Youth Sports commissioner Christopher Campbell wrote. "In donating her time back to the community, she emphasizes those qualities that made her a great player and teammate – the importance of fundamentals, the importance of teamwork, hard work and fair play. The players that have been fortunate enough to have worked with her have thrived under her tutelage."
Stephanie Son was a four-year member of the soccer program at Potomac Falls, who plans to attend the College of William & Mary in the fall. On top of her athletic endeavors, Son was an active member of the Panthers' National Honor Society and Key Club, where she organized several fundraisers to support the global community.
"Stephanie's transcript can speak to her impressive intellect. However, it cannot begin to convey Stephanie's generosity, humility and sincerity," Potomac Falls soccer coach Michaela Ottenberg wrote. "I have known Stephanie all four years of high school, and I am still consistently impressed with her work ethic and dedication to our school. Stephanie has a genuine concern for others."
About the Jeffrey C. Fowler Memorial Scholarship
Jeff Fowler, or "Fig" as his Patriot teammates called him, was a 1983 graduate of Park View High School where he played baseball and basketball for the Patriots. On and off the field, Jeff Fowler dedicated his life to his family and teaching his 15 nieces and nephews – hence the moniker Uncle Jeff – everything he could about sports, but more importantly served as a lifelong role model for everyone he ever met.
On March 23, 2013, Uncle Jeff lost his 14 year battle with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. In 2015, Jeff Fowler's family started a scholarship in his honor, to give back to local students who display remarkable passion for sports. In four years, the JCFM scholarship committee has awarded eleven students more than $8,500 in scholarship money.


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Please call or text to set up you first service: 817-313-2717
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Dr Ross Lawther
Email: email@example.com
Room: C0.10
Tel: 01223 765917
Lookup R. Lawther in university directory
Research Interests My research is in the area of Group Theory, particularly algebraic groups and their finite analogues. A long-standing collaboration with Professor D.M. Testerman has resulted in two Memoirs published by the American Mathematical Society.


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When Less is More/
You never have to be partially naked or pose a certain way yo get a man's attention, because a man should only see what he can get and imagine what they can have. Being a lady never goes out of style!!!!
Now can i get an amen!?!?!?!


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How Online Retailers Use Predictive Analytics To Improve Your Shopping Experience zite.to/12DQnG1
Tag Archives: shopping
New service tells you when to buy
The travel industry has had these types of services for a while. Kayak.com and others allow you to track the trends of a fare from place to place and then highlights if the price is likely to trend up or down in the future. Now there's a similar service for electronics devices (cameras, laptops, tvs) called decide.com. In addition to predicting the future price, the service also highlights when new models will be released. Read the techcrunch article.


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Oh I love my "little" Addise.../
We were at the doctor again this week for another round of immunizations. I think that marked at least 12 doctor appointments since we brought them home less than 3 months ago. Geesh... that's a lot of co-pays. Our pediatrician always makes time to see our kiddos, ask update questions, and do a well-child physical. LOVE.
As a part of the exam, they weighed our kids. Judah weighed 26 lbs. He's gained 1 pound/month since we got home, and has grown from the 1% to the 10% percentile. YEAH buddy! Addise on the other hand...also weighs 26 lbs!!!!!! She's moved from the 50% in weight to the 95% percentile!!! Let's just say that we had a good laugh and our doctor affirmed their growth.
Here's a few pictures of our walking Addise. She's fully walking everywhere all the time. I think she thinks she's the same age as her brother [why wouldn't she? she's the same weight!] so she's constantly trying to keep up with him.
It's really hard to get a good picture of her because she moves so fast. Proof?
If Addise spends all summer in dresses, I'd be perfectly ok with that.
All ready to go to work with mommy. LOVE LOVE LOVE this little one!


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Engineered timber necessitates hardly any care comparative to Different forms Of timber, thi sis specially vital that you look at if it regards exterior seats, vulnerable to rain and sun within regular basis. In case your teak stair seats have a unprotected locale, afew simple treatment help could continue to keep your seats in fantastic form for quite a lengthy moment. Re-conditioning your teak Adirondack seats isn't hard todo with all the parts and course of action beneath. Seats which are onto a backyard or differently partially shielded in the parts may go further between maintenance compared to those which are fully unprotected.
Is blossom oil. Olive oil, an infusion from walnut timber and is also your natural and also best option for teak timber maintenance.
Actions to Re Conditioning a Adirondack seat
8 steps under to re-condition your teak stair seat.
- Assemble your walnut acrylic, fabrics and Locate a workspace at which spilled teak Oil isn't the concrete or flooring. With a fall fabric Might Be a Great notion. Additionally, achieving so at a well-ventilated field is most useful.
When There Is a deposit or dirt in your own teak stair seat Squirt off this using a hose, then wash or sand when necessary after which let Dry.
- Put the bathroom mat onto a level surface area. You might need to set out any paper or cardboard for simple clean up.
- Attach the fabric into a sq and put in lavender oil to a facet. Don a set of latex or nitrile gloves with this particular specific step
- start off massaging against your teak stair seat with all the quilted fabric. Can This at a systematic manner in order to don't overlook any problems. A round Motion may assist ensure decent protection.
- Insert additional oil into the material as essential predicated by what much oil that the walnut timber absorbs.
- After completed, make use of the Adirondack seat to break for 5-10 minutes throughout which time it's going to consume a lot of this cherry acrylic.
- Eliminate any excessive walnut oil having a sterile fabric.
- Permit the Adirondack seat take in the dry and oil for a couple hours previous to sitting.
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The Domestication of Ubiquitous Communication
Site of research: School of Social Sciences & Humanities, University of Tampere
Project director: Professor Pertti Alasuutari
Sponsor: Academy of Finland, Research Programme MOTIVE
Duration: 2009 - 2012
PhD Jari Aro
PhD, MS Jari Luomanen
MA Li Wang
Ubiquitous communication and information technology refer to those technical devices, services and practices which have become habituated elements of everyday life. Domestication of technology is the social and cultural process whereby technology is actively adopted and adjusted into everyday practices. When domesticating technology users familiarize themselves with it and choose and mould the ways it is used to fit their own particular needs and habits. At the same time they negotiate with their social and cultural environment about meanings and norms of using that technology; what are the proper ways of using it and what are not.
This research project will study the domestication of communication and information technology by comparing research materials from various cultural settings. Informant's experiences are observed and collected for one year. Information will be amassed by carrying out interviews and ethnographic observations of the informant's ways of using social media. The research group also provides the informants with Internet based services and invites them to take part in a social communication process where they can share their experiences, ideas and impressions of using technology.
This study contributes to basic research in social and cultural studies of technology as well as relevance for applied research and development of technology. Our aim is to generate conceptual knowledge of the social and cultural processes whereby new technology is being adopted to ubiquitous elements of everyday practices. Practices of domestication are studied at the levels of individuals, groups and social networks and also in relation to more a general social and cultural process. This project will also contribute to methodological development of social and cultural studies of technology by innovating and testing methods of collecting research materials.
Cooperation and Services
About Us
Research & Study
Career Services
Finnish Social Science Data Archive
Centre for International Education
IT services
Language Centre
Language Services
Registrar's Office
Sports Activities
» more


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Faust is part of a winery/brand portfolio owned by Huneeus Vintners including Napa Valley based Quintessa, Illumination (a very limited production Sauvignon Blanc sourced from a tiny block on the Quintessa property), Flowers Vineyards & Winery (a Sonoma County based winery), Leviathan, a Napa Valley brand founded by winemaker Andy Erickson and Willamette Valley, Oregon based Benton-Lane Winery. See our separate review on this site for Quintessa plus notes from our visits to their other properties.
Both Agustin and his wife Valeria were born in Chile and are wine industry veterans. Valeria is a microbiologist and viticulturist and was the one who originally discovered the land for sale that is now home to Quintessa. By age 27 in 1960, Agustin was the CEO of Concha y Toro – a small winery at the time that he ultimately helped build into Chile's largest producer. In the early 1970's he worked at Seagram's and oversaw their worldwide operations. Later he became involved in a remarkable number of wine ventures including Franciscan Estate and Flowers Winery and in 1999 founded Huneeus Vintners (owns Quintessa among other brands and properties). Agustin and Valeria's son Agustin Francisco currently oversees their family's wine holdings.
The name of this winery is based on an old German legend. Faust is a tribute to this old legend about Dr. Faust who was described in the German poet Goethes' work. In the story, Dr. Faust was tempted by the Devil to exchange his soul in return for youth, energy and passion. The comparison can be made to Agustin's renewed passion for making wine in a totally different manner than all his other endeavors. Throughout his wine career, and it has been a long one, Agustin has always produced wines with the intent to showcase great vineyards – in other words directly reflect the individual terroir of the specific vineyard's location. However this is not the case with Faust – the premise behind this wine is to ultimately showcase Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa.
All fruit is sourced from Huneeus's own vineyards in Rutherford as well as from Coombsville, a slightly cooler growing climate found just east of the town of Napa. The same attention to detail that Huneeus gives his Quintessa wines is bestowed upon the Faust wines in the vineyards, during harvest and during the aging. Initially the winery specialized in one wine each year – but now they produce a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and The Pact, a rich red blend – both available in very limited quantities.
The first vintage ever of Faust was from 2002. We tried the 2005 Faust; this wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and a touch of Cabernet Franc. The minor blending varieties will change depending on the vintage, but Cabernet Sauvignon remains the dominant variety in every Faust wine. As with prior vintages this is a rich complex wine dark in color. An exotic combination of herbs, notes of cedar, blackberries & cherries coat the palate. This wine is designed to be consumed now and its styled to be paired with food but it can also be aged. The tannins are moderate and do not overwhelm; there are some spices on the very long finish. Wine & Spirits Magazine voted this wine #9 on their best restaurant Cabernet Sauvignons in the nation.
NOTE: as of 2019 the old St. Clement Winery (hospitality center) is being remodeled to eventually reopen as the home of Faust Wines. To date the exterior has been painted a solemn dark color – blending in the building more with the natural surroundings compared to the previous bright exterior look. This winery site is rich in history which we will outline in more depth once Faust actually opens the property to the public.
The historic home was built in 1878 by Fritz Rosenbaum (with the proceeds earned from his glass and mirror company based in San Francisco at the time). He called this mansion Johannaberg – named in honor of his wife Johanna. He made lots of wine here (fermenting primarily Riesling and Zinfandel in the basement of the home) but never sold the wine. William Casey, an ophthalmologist (who we met years ago at a tasting in St. Helena) founded St. Clement in 1976 and built a winery behind the iconic historic home. He chose the name St. Clement to honor his ancestors who helped found the state of Maryland. He eventually sold St. Clement to the Japanese brewer Sapporo USA in 1987. Treasury Wine Estates was the previous owner – they sold the winery, home, land + vineyard to Huneeus Vintners in late 2016.
NOTE: We are waiting to revisit as soon as Faust opens this property to visitors again. This is scheduled to open sometime in Spring 2020. At that point we will completely update this review including current release tasting notes.
Prices are mid range meaning the wine is quite reasonable in comparison to many other premium Napa Valley grown Cabernet Sauvignons. This wine is not available for tasting at Quintessa – until the tasting room opens, the best way to purchase is directly through their website. Visit: www.faustwine.com


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8GB or 16GB of RAM for Heavy Multi Tasking - Intro
RAM is fairly cheap and easy to install. But how much do you need for heavy multitasking?
8GB or 16GB of RAM for Heavy Multi Tasking - Observations
Prior to my upgrade I was running 4GB of RAM, but owing to 32 bit limitations of 3GB and two 500MB graphics cards, I can only see 2GB of available RAM in performance manager.
This 2GB of RAM was always maxed out, hovering around the 1.8GB mark most of the time during day to day use. I use a 4 monitor set up so can have a awful lot of stuff open.
I recently upgraded to a 64 bit system, and so now I can use more RAM. I have installed 16GB, but how much of this will get used.
Typically I have open:
- 4 Browser Windows (3 or 4 Tabs Each)
- 3 MS Word Windows
- MS Outlook
- >10 Large PDF Files
- MS Publisher with lots of Photos
- Modelling Software or,
- Sketch Up or,
- AutoCAD
So how much memory does all this stuff take up? Just 3.67GB:
Windows is actually using a lot more memory standby memory, if we look in resource monitor we can see only 1.4GB Free with around 11GB used in standby. Standby memory hold on to applications that have been closed, in case they are needed again, this will gradually "fill up" the longer you have your machine switched on and you open and close programs.
8GB or 16GB of RAM for Heavy Multi Tasking - Conclusion
8GB will almost certainly be plenty for heavy multitasking. Any more than 8GB and really you are looking at server amounts of memory that give no real benefit.
Would I have bought 16GB of RAM knowing what I know now? Probably not. But its would still be tempting because the more available memory for standby the better. . . . and there in lies the rub.
As a note aside the best performance upgrade you can ever make (in my opinion) is a solid state drive SSD. Even a old, low spec computer will work twice as fast with an SSD.


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Spend a minute to help Special Olympics Iowa
Vote online to help SOIA get $25,000
Special Olympics Iowa is in the running for a huge grant. Helping them out takes only one minute. State Farm's Neighborhood Assist program is giving away 40 separate $25,000 grants through an online voting process. Special Olympics Iowa hopes to secure the grant and fund its Unified Sports Program.
When VOTING, select the state of Iowa and then select "Play Unified." You are able to vote ten times with one click. Users can vote daily until June 3.
The money will be used to provide year-round sports training, athletic competition and wellness programs for those with intellectual disabilities.
The description online states: "For our Special Olympics Iowa athletes, it is crucial to offer programs like Unified Sports because many of these individuals have experienced discrimination and exclusion in their lives. Unified Sports teaches athletes that even though they may think differently, that does not mean they have to play on a different field from their friends and peers.
"Special Olympics Iowa currently serves 12,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities, so being able to fund additional Special Olympics Iowa Unified Sports efforts would have a high impact on a large population in Iowa. Because our organization is growing so rapidly, and more people want to be involved with Unified Sports, we have an increasing need for amenities to better serve our athletes. We would use these funds to purchase equipment, promote the events, provide training and services for our athletes, recruit volunteers, and expand programming statewide. In Unified Sports and through Special Olympics Iowa, everyone is equal."
The organization is encouraging supporters to spread the word on their Facebook pages.


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Personnel Research Psychologist
- Employer
- USAJobs
- Location
- Washington D.C.
- Posted
- Apr 30, 2019
- Closes
- Apr 30, 2019
- Function
- Analyst, Research, Human Resources
- Industry
- Government and Public Services, Federal
- Career Level
- Experienced (Non-Manager)
- Hours
- Full Time
Occasional travel - You may be expected to travel for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed No
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service
- Primary U.S. residency for the last three years (additional details below)
- You may be required to pass a background investigation and/or polygraph
- Upon appointment, you may be required to undergo random drug testing
Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree that included a major field of study (or equivalent) in psychology.
You qualify for this position if you meet the basic requirement listed above and possess one year of specialized experience as described below.
Experience: You qualify for the GS-13 grade level if you possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as:
- Serving as a team member in conducting job analysis and test development in accordance with regulatory and statutory guidelines governing the field of employee selection testing to include the Uniformed Guidelines on Employee Selection procedures
- Working independently or as part of a team applying research techniques and measurement theories, principles, and practices to develop tools such as surveys or other assessments to meet organizational needs
- Utilizing a major statistical analysis package such as Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) or Statistical Analysis System (SAS) to conduct statistical analyses
- Conducting research and development independently or with others which contributes to the field of industrial/organizational psychology or equivalent applied research field
- Leading a team in conducting job analysis and test development in accordance with regulatory and statutory guidelines governing the field of employee selection testing to include the Uniformed Guidelines on Employee Selection procedures
- Leading others in applying research techniques and measurement theories, principles, and practices to develop tools such as surveys or other assessments to meet organizational needs
- Utilizing a major statistical analysis package such as Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) or Statistical Analysis System (SAS) to conduct statistical analyses
- Conducting research and development requiring a high degree of insight and originality which contributes to the field of industrial/organizational psychology or equivalent applied research field
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
You must:
- Meet all qualification requirements, including education if applicable to this position, subject to verification at any stage of the application process; and
- Meet all applicable Time in Grade requirements (current federal employees must have served 52 weeks at the next lower grade or equivalent grade band in the federal service) by 04/29/2019.
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.
Background Investigation: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is a federal law enforcement agency that requires all applicants to undergo a thorough background investigation prior to employment in order to promote the agency's core values of vigilance, service to country, and integrity. During the screening and/or background investigation process, you will be asked questions regarding any felony criminal convictions or current felony charges, the use of illegal drugs (e.g., marijuana, cocaine, heroin, LSD, methamphetamines, ecstasy), and the use of non-prescribed controlled substances including any experimentation, possession, sale, receipt, manufacture, cultivation, production, transfer, shipping, trafficking, or distribution of controlled substances. . For more information visit this link.
Residency: If you are not currently a CBP employee, you must meet one or more of the following primary residency criteria for at least three years prior to applying to this announcement:
- Resided in the United States or its protectorate or territories (excluding short trips abroad, such as vacations);
- Worked for the United States government as an employee overseas in a federal or military capacity; or
- Been a dependent of a United States federal or military employee serving overseas.
Probationary Period: All employees new to the federal government must serve a one year probationary period during the first year of his/her initial permanent federal appointment to determine fitness for continued employment. Current and former federal employees may be required to serve or complete a probationary period.
Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) Eligibles: If you have never worked for the Federal Government, you are not CTAP/ICTAP eligible. Information about ICTAP or CTAP eligibility can be found here. You must submit the supporting documents listed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement. In addition, to be considered well qualified under CTAP/ICTAP, you must possess the knowledge, skills and abilities and/or competencies clearly exceeding the minimum requirements of the position. This will be measured by a score of 85 or higher.
Please see the Qualifications and Required Documents sections for more information if education is applicable to this position.
Bargaining Unit Status: This position is not covered under the bargaining unit
Special Appointing Authority: Veterans, military spouses, Peace Corps/VISTA volunteers, and people with disabilities possess a wealth of unique talents, experiences, and competencies that can be invaluable to the DHS mission. If you are a member of one of these groups, you may not have to compete with the public for federal jobs. To determine your eligibility and to understand what documentation would be required with your application, please click on the appropriate link below. You must provide documentation supporting your eligibility prior to the closing date of this announcement. If you have any questions regarding your eligibility, please contact the CBP Hiring Center via the contact information listed at the end of this job opportunity announcement.
- Veterans
- Military spouses Effective until August 12, 2023, any spouse of a member on active duty may be eligible
- Individuals with Disabilities The proof of disability documentation must specify that you are eligible to apply using Schedule A. It does NOT need to detail your specific disability, medical history or need for accommodation. For more information visit this link.
- Peace Corps/VISTA
- Other miscellaneous hiring authorities
Positions with known promotion potential do not guarantee promotion, nor is the promise of promotion implied.
Telework may be available on a regular recurring or situational basis.
CBP uses E-Verify, an internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify including your rights and responsibilities.
Every individual receives a fair opportunity throughout the federal recruitment and hiring process. Learn more here.
Follow U.S. Customs and Border Protection on Twitter @CustomsBorder Read more
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Applicants will only be considered for the Eligibilities for which they claim (and provide supporting documentation) based on the responses provided in the job questionnaire: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/10474944
We will review your resume and supporting documentation to ensure you meet the basic qualification requirements. If you meet the minimum qualifications, your experience, education and training will be rated using an online self-assessment questionnaire based on the competencies and/or knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below. You will receive a score ranging from 70-100 based on your responses. Your entire application package will then be reviewed. The final determination will be based on all the information provided in your application package.
If you are best qualified, you may be referred to the hiring manager for consideration and may be called for an interview. To preview the job questionnaire, see https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/10474944
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics (KSAOs):
Candidates who meet the minimum qualification requirements are required to possess certain Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, or Other Characteristics (KSAOs) to successfully perform the functions of this position. Candidates will be asked to demonstrate their attainment of these KSAOs in their resume. The KSAOs are:
- Ability to plan surveys to assess job skills, knowledge, abilities, and other characteristics of incumbents in various occupations
- Knowledge of all phases of the research process, including problem definition, planning, execution, analysis, interpretation, and reporting of results
- Ability to effectively communicate and provide consultative services to all levels of customers
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Try something new on a New England family vacation. From shopping at general stores and trading posts, to outdoor quests like whitewater rafting, whale watching, and hiking scenic trails, New England has a limitless selection of exciting, family-friendly activities to please kids and parents alike. Explore the beaches, farms, and amusement parks, or bring the kids on a train ride or sightseeing cruise. Plenty of family friendly lodgings welcome parents and kids with swimming pools, game rooms, discounted children's meal, and group activities for the kids. Many lodgings have a variety of accommodations and public spaces to be perfect for family reunions.
Route 16, Pinkham Notch Gorham, NH, 03581 Phone: 603-466-3988
Take the family and stand above it all
1281 Waterbury Stowe Road Waterbury, VT Phone: 866-258-6877
Chill out with a fun & friendly ice cream factory tour
49 Schoolhouse Brook Road Caratunk, ME, 04925 Phone: 603-215-0002
Family fun on the water, in the woods – and high above the trees
6655 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT, 05482 Phone: 802-985-3001 Toll-Free: 800-829-2327
Family Fun at Vermont Teddy Bear!
528 Presidential Highway Jefferson, NH, 03583 Phone: 603-586-4445
Pure Joy. Family Style. Every Summer.
Mayflower II, State Pier, 77 Water Street Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-747-3434
Plymouth by paddle wheeler – the calm, the stories
149 Pond Street Stoneham, MA, 02180 Phone: 617-541-5466
Get everyone up close to fascinating animals from the wild
137 Warren Avenue Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-746-1622
A compelling approach to history; a memorable visitor experience.
Adams National Historical Park Visitor Center - 1250 Hancock Street Quincy, MA, 02169 Phone: 617-471-1700
Families valued by this historic South Shore city
50 Walkers Brook Drive Reading, MA, 01867 Phone: 781-942-9816
Play together on this one-of-a-kind sky ropes course
Route 2 (Mohawk Trail) Charlemont, MA, 01339 Phone: 800-532-7483
Outdoor fun for everyone with this adventure center as your base
40 Sargent Drive New Haven, CT, 06511 Phone: 203-812-9981
Play nice together on a one of a kind indoor ropes course
26 Oxford Street Cambridge, MA, 02138 Phone: 617-495-3045
A memorable & amazing journey into our world's history
Visitor Center - 134 Court Street Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-747-7533 Toll-Free: 800-872-1620
History is just the beginning!
Endless list of activities, adventures to excite every family member
Multiple Centers & Dock Locations Providence, Newport, Westerly, RI and Fall River, MA Phone: 401-272-3540
Enjoy great family fun and help protect an environmental treasure
55 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA, 01609 Phone: 508-799-4406
Exciting family fun and learning at this central Massachusetts museum
Villages of East Burke, West Burke & Burke Hollow Burke, VT, 05832 Phone: 802-626-4124
Family fun from skiing to pond hockey in this corner of the Northeast Kingdom
95 Ocean Avenue Kennebunkport, ME, 04046 Phone: 207-967-4050 Toll-Free: 800-552-5651
So much to see and even more to do for families at this Maine resort
Route 1 - Animal Park Road York, ME, 03909 Phone: 207-363-4911
The fun is really wild at this Maine kingdom
1098 Fall River Avenue Seekonk, MA, 02771 Phone: 508-336-8307
Get the whole family behind the wheel
5 Pine Street Carver, MA, 02330 Phone: 508-866-8190 Toll-Free: 877-332-8455
Your kids will love you when you take them to this exciting theme park
32 Valley Road Jefferson, NH, 03583 Phone: 603-545-4533
A family sojourn never to be forgotten
37 Corey Road -- Route 43 Hancock, MA, 01237 Phone: 413-738-5500 Toll-Free: 800-882-8859
Have your own peak experience and bring the kids
961 Main Street Berline, NH, 03570 Phone: 603-228-0836
Let your family adventure begin in perfectly situated Androscoggin Valley
1225 Ocean Avenue New London, CT, 06320 Phone: 860-447-3031 Toll-Free: 800-510-7263
Everyone can be a kid at oceanside amusement park, beach
85 North Policy Street Salem, NH, 03079 Phone: 603-893-3560
Family fun, services and accommodations make this a grand day out
Three Great Locations Chichester, Hooksett and Alton Bay, NH Phone: 603-798-3555
True fun and games for everyone at these New Hampshire play parks
275 West Natick Road Warwick, RI, 02886 Phone: 401-889-5452
Off Route 302 Bretton Woods, NH, 03589 Phone: 603-278-5404 Toll-Free: 800-922-8825
Children never forget a trip aboard the Cog Railway
920 Bald Hill Road Warwick, RI, 02886 Phone: 401-828-5867
60 Loon Mountain Road Lincoln, NH, 03251 Phone: 603-745-6281 Toll-Free: 800-229-5666
Outdoor fun, recreation and inspiration in the White Mountains
1095 Ives Road Warwick, RI, 02818 Phone: 401-884-2010
3275 Post Road Warwick, RI, 02886 Phone: 401-738-2019
1712 Lost River Road -- Route 112W North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: 603-745-8031
Trek through a White Mountain wonderland at Lost River Gorge
38 Norcross Circle North Conway, NH, 03860 Phone: 603-356-5251 Toll-Free: 800-232-5251
Ride into the past aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad
110 Daniel Webster Highway (Route 3) Lincoln, NH, 03251 Phone: 603-745-8913
See a show, ride a train, try out a Segway - So much to do at this family amusement park
67 Main Street, Steamboat Dock Essex, CT, 06426 Phone: 860-767-8269
Inside and out, lots to fascinate and entertain families along our riverbank!
50 Ferncroft Road Danvers, MA, 01923 Phone: 978-777-2500
Wet, whacky, wild family fun!
Mathews Park - 303 West Avenue Norwalk, CT, 06850 Phone: 203-899-0606
A "wow" experience for all ages, even adults!
1355 Boston Post Road Guilford, CT, 06437 Phone: 203-453-2338
Find fantastic family fun and support your local farmer
67 Atlantic Highway Northport, ME, 04849 Phone: 207-789-2000
Families love this mid coast vacation destination
Visitor's Center at Exit 32 Off I-93 North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: 603-745-8720 Toll-Free: 800-346-3687
Wonderful scenery; terrific lodging and dining
2 Southwick Street Mendon, MA, 01756 Phone: 800-258-9182
Take the family into the wild right near home
545 Beach Road Pittsburg, NH, 03592 Phone: Toll-Free: 866-663-9777
Family-friendly ATV rides with Bear Rock Adventures
Sailing from Ports in Rockland and Camden, ME, 04843 Phone: Toll-Free: 800-807-9463
Journey aboard a schooner is treasured time for families
One Railroad Avenue Essex, CT, 06426 Phone: 860-767-0103 Toll-Free: 800-377-3987
Much more than a Choo Choo
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, off Route 20 Sturbridge, MA, 01566 Phone: 508-347-3362 Toll-Free: 800-733-1830
A family place with stories to tell
850 New Hampshire Route 16 Glen, NH, 03838 Phone: 603-383-4186
Every day is an unforgettable adventure!
3 Great Locations in New Hampshire and Maine , NH Phone: 603-367-4427
Monkey around in the trees in three New England settings
Route 1 Saco, ME, 04072 Phone: 207-284-5139
For family fun, together and one by one
Route 2 Charlemont, MA, 01339 Phone: 800-553-7238
Family Owned and Operated Whitewater Rafting Outfitter in the Berkshires
24 Clark Farm Road North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: Toll-Free: 888-407-4054
A spectacular frozen fantasy for the young – and young at heart
105 Haverhill Road Salem, NH, 03079 Phone: 603-893-8300
Let your kids explore the mysteries of America's history
66 Thunder Mountain Road Charlemont, MA, 01339 Phone: 413-339-6617
For families it's easy - bring your kids and play!
Renew your family's fun this summer in the Berkshires
Route 16 at Pinkham Notch Gorham, NH, 03581 Phone: 603-466-3988
Outdoor Fun That's Just Right for The Entire Family
5 Water Street Fall River, MA, 02721 Phone: 508-678-1100 Toll-Free: 800-533-3194
An exciting family adventure in America's naval history
Norwich Free Academy - 108 Crescent Street Norwich, CT, 06360 Phone: 860-887-2506
Family fun and learning in Norwich
200 Daniel Webster Highway Nashua, NH, 03060 Phone: 603-888-1940
Be a Family That Plays Together
1168 County Road Montpelier, VT, 05602 Phone: Toll-Free: 800-242-2740
The Morse family has some maple magic for your family
33 Village Road Waterville Valley, NH, 03215 Phone: 603-468-2553 Toll-Free: 800-468-2553
It's natural for families to bond, relax at this resort
6 Washington Street Dover, NH, 03820 Phone: 603-742-2002
Exciting and accessible destination for family fun and learning
One Museum Drive Greenwich, CT, 06830 Phone: 203-869-0376
Dinosaur tracks and mechanical banks: lots for kids to see at this lively museum
55 Coogan Boulevard Mystic, CT, 06355 Phone: 860-572-5955
A must SEA for every family
61 Laconia Road Tilton, NH, 03276 Phone: 603-286-8008 Toll-Free: 800-605-2537
Family fun the focus of attractions in the lakes region
12 Steamboat Wharf Mystic, CT, 06355 Phone: 860-536-0416
Haul Away! Bring the whole family sailing.
One Franklin Park Road Boston, MA, 02121 Phone: 617-541-5466
Lions and lemurs and birds - Oh My!
1000 Elmwood Avenue Providence, RI, 02907 Phone: 401-785-3510
Discover WILD Family Fun for Everyone
77 Forest Street Hartford, CT, 06105 Phone: 860-522-9258
Families learn together about issues of the 19th and 21st centuries
2300 Lafayette Road Portsmouth, NH, 03801 Phone: 603-427-1111
Something for everyone in the family
117 Long Pond Road Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-830-4470
Full-dome Plymouth planetarium a shining star for visitors of all ages
6 Main Street Ext. - Post Office Square Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-812-2020
Mark your calendar now for family-fun activities to celebrate Plymouth's 400th
185 Elm Street Fitchburg, MA, 01420 Phone: 978-345-4207
A creative adventure for the whole family
1650 Hartford-New London Tpke. (Rt. 85) Oakdale, CT, 06370 Phone: 860-443-4367
Convenient, affordable and dinosaur friendly
Family fun outdoors (and in) at wide variety of N.H. campgrounds
357 Morningside Lane Charlestown, NH, 03603 Phone: 603-542-4416
Flight fun for every age and skill level
U.S. Route 7 - P.O. Box 10 Shelburne, VT, 05482 Phone: 802-985-3346


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Staying Safe With Mini Skip Hire In The UK
Here at Skiphireuk, we are proud of our incredible health and safety record. We understand just how important it is to follow relevant safety legislation to ensure that not only your employees are kept safe, but also our operators and any passersby. As with most health and safety legislation and advice, it all boils down to common sense – however, it's always worth reminding ourselves of the basics.
When you make the most of Mini skip hire, your health and safety duty begins immediately to ensure that you don't create a dangerous environment for anybody, including yourself.
The Arrival Of Your Mini Skip
Before your skip arrives, you need to make sure that the area where it is going to be placed is clear and stable. Ideally, you want to ensure that the area isn't too soft either, as the skip will only get heavier and heavier as you continue to fill it with waste. A great idea, if your skip is going to be placed on soft ground like grass or dirt, is to position planks of wood in the area where it is going to go. This can provide a stable and safe placement area for the waste solution itself.
You also need to do your best to ensure that the delivery truck will have the ability to reach your property. This normally involves the movement of parked cars and other bulky items which could impede delivery.
When the truck arrives, you need to make sure that all young children and pets are kept indoors, or at least as far from the delivery point as possible. The delivery truck will often have to back up to deliver the skip; anyone hanging around the rear of the truck may not be visible to the driver and could be at risk.
Once the skip has been placed, make sure that you don't move it. It might be hard to believe, but there have been several examples of people dragging skips to different positions. Not only is this hugely dangerous, it can also make it impossible for the operator to collect the skip at the end of service, particularly after it has been filled.
Filling Your Mini Skip
You might think that something as simple as putting your waste into your skip doesn't bear much thinking about. However, you need to make sure that you know what you're doing. Just throwing your waste in without any kind of planning is a very ineffective way of filling your waste solution. It can also be incredible dangerous if you're just throwing your waste in without looking.
Even the act of throwing a heavy object into a skip can be very dangerous. Aside from the fact that anyone and anything could be hidden in your skip (especially if you've got children around), skips have high sides and even the act of throwing a heavy object can damage your muscles – especially your back.
Remember to bend your knees and lift with your legs, avoiding as much tension and weight on your spine as possible. Approach the skip straight on and, if your item is really heavy, get someone to help you. It's better to ask for help than risk causing long-lasting or even permanent damage to your muscles.
Keep Health And Safety In Mind With Mini Skip Hire
Here at Skiphireuk.co.uk, we are proud to offer a diverse range of waste management services, including nationwide and Mini skip hire. Staying safe around domestic skips is hugely important, and you have a duty of care to passersby and your employees when it comes to the dangers of skip.
For more information, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our team of Mini skip hire specialists today on 0845 241 3488. Alternatively, you can email any questions or concerns to email@example.com.
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A Skip For Every Garden : Your guide to garden clearances
Been tasked with a garden clearance? Remove some of that burden and stress with our complete full and easy to follow guide.Read more »
What Skip Size Are You? Your Guide To Skip Sizes
Order your skip too small and you could find your waste overflowing. Order too large and you could be paying to move and dispose of fresh air!Read more »


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Stockholm reggae club 3 years anniversary
Hey guys!
Hope all is well, I am so freaking exahusted from this day and it's not even over yet for me, been studying since I got home tonight and I have to finish a few other things before resting tongiht :( Ouuuh
Anyways I haven't left a little info about my saturday night out with my cousines, baby and his friends :)
We went to slakhuset to the big 3years anniversary of Sthlm reggae club. It was a really nice night, I wanted to party all night, it was a shame they closed 3oclock cause that was when I was getting in the mood haha.
The main floor was hosted by the big dj Rodigan and the other two were a little mixed, and a perfomance by govenour andy. It was all together a very good mixture :) It was all together, reggae,dancehall and soca most of the night. I hope they do that again sometime it was really nice! Mixed people too. I enjoyed myself no doubt.
Here a few mingle pictures we took from that night. Sorry didn't have anymore. But it was wicked :)
Glad you could join :)
♥ Dude got the peephole to my soul


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'The hardest part is getting started'. How many times have we heard that when beginning something new? Many of us are guilty of dwelling on a situation for too long before realising we could have already made the initial step to being who we want to be. Whether it be a completely new venture or simply a case of seeking City & Guilds accreditation, our Home Study Electrician Courses allow students the flexibility in the following ways.
The Able Skills Home Study Electrical Course allows students to come in and train on a 2 week on/2 week off basis. This allows him to utilise their advantage of studying the remainder of his course in their own time with the comprehensive study pack given to them.
The 2 week on/ 2 week off basis tends to be popular but we like to offer students further flexibility by allowing them to pick and choose their 2 week on period WHENEVER it suits them. For example if you started your 2 weeks this coming Monday, you are entitled to coming straight back after 2 weeks off, or if you are unable to come due to personal commitments, feel free to come back a few weeks later instead!
Why such flexibility? We offer this perk on our Home Study Electrical Courses so we can put extra emphasis on allowing students to learn a trade at a pace that suits them.
Electrician Courses from Able Skills on Vimeo.
Not only do we allow students to pick and choose the weeks they train, but we also offer flexible payment options. Starting something new can sometimes cost a lot, however our reasonable costs are matched with reason payments options too!
A previous student on our Home Study Electrical Courses even commented on the course saying, 'a course such at this one opens up doors for me to earn more money and become self employed. These are the things I simply didn't have offered to me in my previous job'.
A new idea, a new opportunity, a new course, a new career. It's that simple and we encourage those out there to get the ball rolling and to finally get started!
If you would like to see what our Home Study Electrical Courses could do for you, click here for more information. If it sounds like it could be for you then why not pop down and see the centre for yourself! No heads up needed just turn up between 8.30 and 4.30 ANY day of the week!


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NHC Stories
August Newsletter
Monthly Newsletter: August 2017Monthly Newsletter is our club update that highlights our recent activities, upcoming activities and other important information for current and prospective members. . Almost There... 6 months ago it seemed like Opening Day would...read more
NHC- July Newsletter
Monthly Newsletter: July 2017 Monthly Newsletter is our club update that highlights our recent activities, upcoming activities and other important information for current and prospective members. Here's what's been happening in July. Trail Cam Photos Here are few...read more
The True Cost of a Hunting Lease
While some people say having access to hunting property is "priceless", I assure you that it is quite the opposite. The cost of maintaining your own hunting lease is quite significant and in addition to the hard $ costs, there are significant soft $ costs ( time off...read more
Unchecked Wildlife Results In Significant Crop Damage
Crop damage is a serious issue and the real impacts are not clearly understood by many farmers. The TWRA website has an Purdue University study which does an excellent job of quantifying the damage from wildlife. If you need something late at night to put you asleep...read more
Nashville Hunt Club launches fish stocking program
NHC has allocated funds to support a fish stocking program for up to 4 landowners in Williamson, Rutherford, Maury or Davidson County. The program will include a full habitat evaluation, upfront preparation work needed to maximize survival, cost of stocking a mix of...read more
Former Navy SEAL assumes role as Club President
We are pleased to announce Jim Howard (founding member) as our new Club President. Jim will focus his efforts on managing NHC's landowner and member relationships, and ensuring our Club delivers a world-class experience for both groups. Jim is currently a Vice...read more
NHC selects Intellicorp as Background Check Provider
We are pleased to announce that we have selected Intellicorp to provide detailed background checks for all members. Most, if not all, traditional hunt clubs fail to properly screen their member base and that can cause trouble for members and landowners. We are not the...read more
Nashville Hunt Club (NHC) comes to Middle Tennessee. Nashville Hunt Club will soon open Southern Middle Tennessee operations in Williamson, Maury and Hickman Counties. We are actively seeking new property to lease and are pre-registering new members for the 2017-2018...read more


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For international students at the Carey Business School, there are several resources available to assist in the transition to academic life at Johns Hopkins.
Johns Hopkins University Office of International Services (OIS)
The Johns Hopkins University Office of International Services (OIS) assists international students with the visa and immigration process. International students new to Carey will work with the OIS staff to ensure that they have a smooth transition to life at Johns Hopkins. New degree-seeking students should consult the OIS website for more information on the visa process.
All questions should be directed to the Office of International Services via phone at 667-208-7001, or email at email@example.com.
STEM-Designated Programs
Our full-time MS in Information Systems program qualifies as a STEM program, offering an Optional Practice Training (OPT) benefit that allows international students to stay in the U.S. for an additional 24 months. Starting Fall 2019, our full-time MS in Finance and MS in Business Analytics & Risk Management degrees will also qualify for STEM-designation, with the OPT benefit.
Learn more about OPT Eligibility
Summer Intensive
The Summer Intensive program is uniquely designed to empower international students entering the Carey Business School to think critically and creatively, communicate clearly and work with both independently and collaboratively.
All international students beginning their programs in Fall 2019 are required to attend the Johns Hopkins Carey Business School Summer Intensive unless the student has earned a degree in the United States from a U.S. institution. Students who earned or will earn a degree from U.S. institutions located abroad are required to attend.
For more information visit the Summer Intensive webpage or contact firstname.lastname@example.com.


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*okay – so I didn't quit the internet – I had to do something for April 1st.
If I believed in evolution (which I'm not going to debate here – Love YA!), I would wonder if we were headed in to some sort of devolution – going the opposite way. Or maybe I'm about to prove evolution and just don't know it (Hey! I'm the missing link!!).
What in the world is she talking about?!?!
During my first pregnancy, I developed red itchy flaky spots on my scalp and around my nose. They become really painful and sore.
And eewwww, the flaky scaly stuff.
Here, let me show you:
Lovely, isn't it. (Do I really need to try to explain how I tied evolution into this post? 'Cause it's late and at the time, it seemed pretty obvious… so keep your hats on).
(Actually, I think it's just eczema, but my doctors have not diagnosed it as that yet.)
I spoke with my doctor who told me to apply just a bit of Head and Shoulders around my nose while I showered and to leave it there for a minute or so. I maybe tried it once. It didn't work, so I didn't try again. Then I just plum forgot about it… hmmm
It's never really gone away. But it will subside and then get all inflamed again. The past year, it has been awful and the area around my nose stayed red. I'd been using Cortizone, but I have gotten nervous about that because it has become an everyday thing. Cortizone thins the skin. Not a look I'm shooting for. I'd rather be Rudolph than transparent.
About a month ago, I remembered this bit of advice my doctor gave me, nearly eight years ago, and decided to try it.Guess what?!? It worked! It took about two days. But I haven't had to use the Cortizone cream since then, which is huge! And the redness and inflammation has disappeared. And most importantly, the 'scales' are gone.
It's a good thing Head and Shoulders didn't exist when we were crawling out of the swamps. That could have stopped it all dead in its tracks.
*For the record: those scales are PhotoShopped. But you knew that. Right?


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By Obi Nwakanma
The word "colony" has a very fraught implication for Africans who were themselves "colonized" by European powers from 1895. The use of the term, "cattle colonies" is doubly contentious, and it is at the heart of the current, fierce resistance by people over the recent declaration by the Federal government, through the minister of Agriculture, Mr. Audu Ogbeh, that the federal government would establish "cattle colonies" nationwide to solve another problem, the increasingly intractable problem of the so-called "Fulani Herdsmen." Perhaps Mr. Ogbeh, a trained linguist, should have used another word, as has been suggested by some other interlocutors, and there is great sense in that suggestion, because words themselves carry the weight of our actions, and signify the codes of meanings implicated in those actions.
Governments often strive for subtle conversations on double-edged issues. The wrong choice of words could lead to consequences as devastating as wars. This is where Mr. Ogbeh showed a profound lack of insight and sensitivity – in the choice of the word "colonies" as the operative language of the government's policy for resettlement for the Pastoral Fulani. The image it conveyed is of humongous implication – the forceful expropriation of indigenous lands nationwide for colonial purposes – for resettling the wave of Fulani pastoral herdsmen and migrants streaming in from outside of Nigeria in search of arable land for occupation. This of course will not fly, and will be resisted, and is being resisted as a policy.
There are a number of fundamental questions which all these talk about cattle colonies have thrown up about the rights of the Fulani as Nigerians; about the current status of pastoralism in cattle production; about the rights of the federal government to intervene on behalf of a single group by imposing a policy literally of land expropriation in order to settle a historically migrant group, and indeed about whether the federal government is not creating or even abetting a national security quagmire in its Fulani policy, by initiating a program which would hobble the sovereign capabilities of other existing sub-nationalities within the current Nigerian nationality. These are important questions that ought to be fully addressed.
First, it must be made very clear, that a population of Fulani are Nigerian citizens, and as Nigerians, they have a right to seek residency transact their businesses practice their crafts, and resettle in any part of Nigeria, where they should, if it pleases them seek integration to existing cultural lifestyles, or if they want preserve their lifestyles if it suits them, without violating standard municipal laws, including laws that forbid the clogging of streets and public spaces with their cattle. Violations of such laws must follow the prescribed penalties and consequences including fines, seizures of the cattle, and even jail for repeat or defiant offenders. Nigerians are actually saying that new methods of animal husbandry, including ranching must be explored by the Fulani operators of the cattle business, as well indeed as other Nigerians willing to invest in the business of animal production.
The pressures on the Fulani are clearly environmental. As the traditional grazing grounds of the savannah disappear, these pastoral nomads are now forced to seek newer and newer grounds for water and fodder. The disappearance of grazing land leads to new, often violent encounters, and these encounters have created the fear of the armed intruder who is harassing and displacing long tenured owners of the land, as they move southwards, and who are backed by the force or the might of the federal government, with a Fulani president playing possum. But we must also realize that the Fulani cattlemen serve a social and economic need in Nigeria, and in the discussions that have gone on, and in the hysteria that has largely accompanied their increasingly violent encounters, we have failed to factor in these facts. Many a Nigerian family will go without meat without the Fulani herdsman – that hardy, defiant, agnostic wanderer with his cattle.
The quality of Nigerian beef is also high because of the leanness of the meat, the result of its grass-fed, organic, and generally more environmentally friendly production. The quality of Nigerian leather, the by-product of this cattle, which has been falsely called, "Moroccan leather," is also a testimony for the quality of the Fulani cattle. Those who have been talking about ranching have not factored in the environmental impact of settled cattle breeding or other animal husbandry. Ranching has its place certainly, and so does the open grazing of pastoral herding.
We must therefore not throw away the ancient experiences of these pastoral herdsmen, who have by a long history of delicate symbiosis and balancing between their practice of cattle production and mastery of the environment, created a formidable, hardly studied model of effective agricultural practices thatmanages the environment. My point is quite simple: it is the federal government, through a generally incompetent policy or mechanism that has created this problem of the Fulani herdsmen.
There is the question of distrust: the Miyetti Allah, armed to the teeth, has been given the full license to kill without consequence, and have taken to forceful occupation of places they consider grazing areas. This must be curbed. The Federal government cannot use the term "cow colonies." Otherwise, who says those whose business it is to produce sheep, may not soon form their own violent Shepherds Association, "Otu Ndi n'achi Aturu N'aha Chukwu" and force the federal government to build "Sheep Empires" alongside the "Cattle colonies." It is of course preposterous.
And of course, the proposed cattle colonies are unlikely to work either, particularly in the Igbo areas, with their unique land tenure systems, and the unique land pressures in any case, in these areas. Yet, this problem must be solved because it is now a uniquely Nigerian problem: the pastoral Fulani, as I should emphasize again does have a right to his livelihood and lifestyle. But where his rights end, the rights of other Nigerians begin.
The Fulani does not have the right, even so forcefully backed by a central power and a policy of appeasement by Nigeria' Federal government under the Buhari presidency, to occupy land that they just feel like occupying, but which belongs to another by long tenure. If he wants, he can negotiate the purchase of land, and that transaction should give him his legitimate claims on the right of tenure and residency. But to forcefully occupy another's property and kill them too is an act of war and brigandage.
The Fulani herdsman must be domesticated to the civil laws. Nigeria must also establish the clear nationalities of these Fulani herdsmen. Two leading Fulani – the Sultan of Sokoto and the Emir of Kano – have frequently denied that the armed Herdsmen are actually Fulani that they know, and have advocated severe reprisal for anyone caught to that claim. This calls for the immediate protection of Nigeria's northernmost borders. The Fulani of Niger or Chad or Mali, cannot be given the license to displace the Berom or the Tiv or the Igala, and surge increasing southward to take over parts of the Yoruba, Igbo, Edo, and the minority communities of the south, because that seems to be exactly what's going on with their pattern of infiltration.
The armed, trans-border, and trans-national Fulani seems to be fighting an intense war of colonization right at the very noses of Nigeria's modern national state, and are given the coverage of Nigeria's own national security apparatus. This is why the word, "cattle colony" seems profoundly thoughtless. But to the question of cattle production: it does seem that the National Assembly would ultimately have to weigh in on this matter, and enact an Act of parliament creating grazing routes with weigh stations; Veterinary stations, Campsites,Commodities exchange pits and the cattle markets, with the compliments of police and military stations on what should be rural routes. These clearly marked routes must be isolated from, and closed off to urban developments. Clusters of modern farming communities could emerge and develop around them, and these intentional farm communities might therefore complement these grazing routes, and supply those who might choose to settle for more ordered or organic ranching for their own production.
It is imperative that Nigeria solves this problem thoughtfully, quickly, and within the principle of a sustainable framework, otherwise, we may have the "Tutsi situation" in our hands! Everybody now is pissing on the Fulani, and blaming them for the Nigerian condition. We must be wary of such easy conclusions, as the Fulani must of giving it legitimacy or justification.


text: Share: Comments Print June 26, 2012 at 7:30 PM Nora Ephron, 1941-2012 Posted by Moira Macdonald Very sad news this evening: Nora Ephron, the writer and filmmaker, died of leukemia at the age of 71. Though she directed many films, including "Sleepless in Seattle" and most recently "Julie & Julia," she began her career as a journalist and was, I think, always a writer at heart. (Read her collected essays if you want to experience her wit and sophistication; read her novel "Heartburn," a thinly veiled tale of her bitter divorce from journalist Carl Bernstein, for writing-well-is-the-best-revenge, and some good recipes.) When I think of her, I'll most often remember "When Harry Met Sally," one of the great grown-up romantic comedies, which Ephron wrote in 1989 and which is still imitated (and aspired to) today. Here's its ending, which is vintage Ephron: sentimental music welling; two friends speaking lines that feel utterly right and yet perfectly funny; unabashed, old-fashioned romance. "And then we fell in love." Best last line of a movie ever? It's definitely up there. Ephron's last collection of essays, the 2010 book "I Remember Nothing, And Other Reflections" hints that she knew that her time was drawing short; it ends simply and touchingly with a list titled "What I Will Miss," whose entries include "My kids," "Spring," "Fall," "Waffles," "Reading in bed," "Twinkle lights," "Dinner with friends," "Pride and Prejudice," "One for the table," "Taking a bath," and "Pie." Here's something I will miss: knowing that Nora Ephron was out there, in her beloved New York, writing something I couldn't wait to read. Say hello to Dorothy Parker for me, Ms. E. Rest in peace. Comments


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Metallography and Microstructures
Toughening Methods for Thermoset-Matrix Composites[1]
This article describes the dispersed-phase toughening of thermoset matrices by the development of multiphase-structure thermosetting matrices using rubber and/or thermoplastic materials. It discusses two main methods for manufacturing prepregs, namely, single-pass impregnation and double-pass impregnation. The article illustrates reflected-light optical microscopy techniques to evaluate the morphology of thermoplastic materials for determining the material quality and correlating key microstructural features with material performance.
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Brian S. Hayes, Luther M. Gammon, 2004. "Toughening Methods for Thermoset-Matrix Composites", Metallography and Microstructures, George F. Vander Voort
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ASM Reference Publications Catalog
More than 200 books and data products on topics related to materials properties, performance, processing, and evaluation.