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We all, arguably, say things when we're young and immature that might come back to haunt us five, 10, 15 years down the line, but chances are those mouthy formative years didn't play out in front of millions of people on national television. Twenty-one-year-old America's Next Top Model contestant Liberty Netuschil hadn't planned to forge such a path for herself, but thanks to what fans perceived to be a controversial stance on contemporary politics, her legacy on the show has since entered dark, choppy waters, and has cultivated a false persona she fears could haunt her — and her potential standing in the modeling industry — for the foreseeable future.
A native of Lava Hot Springs, Idaho (population: 412), Netuschil previously lived an admittedly sheltered life in the deepest corners of rural America, and joining the cast of America's Next Top Model's 24th cycle meant adapting to different facets of adulthood (next to women from different walks of life, no less) with cameras capturing her every move. She approached the program with an open mind, she says, but what viewers saw, however, communicated anything but.
In an age when divisiveness is rife in U.S. politics, Netuschil appeared to become a political pariah on the first episode of the season. "I'm actually pro-Trump," she told fellow model hopefuls — some of whom reacted with disgust — vying for a chance to be judged by Tyra Banks and her panel of fashion experts on the reality competition series. It was a quick moment, and little context was given, but the sentiment stuck. Hard. More so because Netuschil alleges the show didn't air her quote in its entirety.
"A statement from a TV show that was cut [by producers] doesn't necessarily mean I believe in everything our president stands for. That's the biggest misconception: People think I'm a die-hard," Netuschil tells EW on the eve of her elimination episode, which saw her exiting the program Tuesday night after an underwhelming performance during a photo shoot with Katya from RuPaul's Drag Race. "Just to clarify…. I didn't vote for Donald Trump. I never stood by [his anti-LGBTQIA+ policies]," she continues. "My family has both liberals and conservatives. My father, who is not pro-Trump, talked to me about business, so I said, 'I'm actually pro-Trump because my family owns a small business, and I heard he helps small businesses because that's his background.'"
In essence, she might have been "pro-Trump" with regards to a single facet of his platform, but she never meant for a cut-and-paste soundbite to speak for the entirety of her being.
"It made me more aware of needing to talk to people about judgment — namely focusing on that simple statement. People make assumptions too quickly," she says. "In the first episode [of cycle 24], one of the girls who didn't make it on the show said I probably came from a racist family. That's the craziest assumption I've ever heard and it's so hurtful…. At the end of the day, I may not even be 'pro-Trump,' but people didn't ask. They just assumed everything. If you're curious, don't assume. Let's talk and discuss it. That's how we can [affect] change."
Regardless of her intentions, viewers weren't pleased that a woman supporting a presidential candidate who stands against the queer community was asking for a career in the land of gay icons Karl Lagerfeld and Marc Jacobs — an industry largely built and sustained by members of the LGBTQIA+ community. When Trump was elected president on Nov. 8, 2016, Netuschil "was an optimist that he would take the responsible and correct actions to 'Make America Great Again,'" she wrote on Instagram in January. "But," she explained, seemingly referencing the 45th commander-in-chief's growing list of perceived offenses, "As time has progressed, I have been just as disappointed as you. I am no different, and I do not stand by [Trump's] divisive speech and action choices."
In fact, she didn't stand by Hillary Clinton's policies, either, telling EW, "with my knowledge [guiding me], neither [candidate] in the running represented our country the way it should be."
Despite attempting to clarify her statements, Netuschil says she has received threats and hateful messages from Trump detractors as a result.
"The backlash has not only directly affected how I feel walking to the store to get groceries in fear of assault, [but also] career issues where clients feel wary of hiring me in fear of representing what the show has labeled me as," she elaborates.
Though she appeared to be apprehensive about posing with a drag queen during L.A. Pride Week for her ANTM swan song ("It was [actually] a beautiful experience, my first time meeting a drag queen. I felt honored and excited," she says, contrary to how she feels the moment is communicated on the episode), Netuschil says she actively resisted regressive attitudes regarding gay people in Idaho, despite religious factors coaxing her in the opposite direction.
"That's not family and friends, that's coming from a religion I was raised around. In Idaho and Utah, it's kind of a big area for Mormons, and that [thought] goes back to the roots of their [religion]," she says of a statement she made in an ANTM confessional, in which she recalls certain people from home viewing LGBTQIA+ individuals as mentally ill. "It was definitely something I was told at some point when I was younger. But, my family never believed that. My family felt the complete opposite…. I wasn't raised around people who were gay, but it never meant that I was against it, and it never meant I was disturbed by it or I believed they had an illness. I can't believe that I had to grow up around people that believed that something was so wrong, when in reality gay people are often bullied and [sometimes] feel that they can't live in their skin."
With the sun setting on her ANTM tenure, Netuschil is trying to take the negative parts of the experience in stride as she begins a new life in Los Angeles, where she plans to do a lot of "soul-searching" to broaden her perspectives on a number of topics, from politics to simple matters of the heart. She doesn't feel like America has the proper perspective on her as a person, but she's grateful for having taken the reality TV plunge with other contestants like bisexual beauty Brendi K. and liberal activist Kyla — the latter of whom Netuschil says educated her on the dynamics of feminism and the gender pay gap.
"We all walked away from the show with more dignity and respect for each other, and that's where we need to step for our future so we can all be better… there's so much more to life than all this petty sh— we talk about on the daily," she finishes. "Hearing about the background of the LGBTQIA+ community and how our president doesn't stand with it and how [the administration] is trying to take their rights away, that's something I will fight [against]. I don't believe in it, I don't believe progress in the world will continue [with that mindset]. It's unfortunate, and it says a lot about who he is, but not who I am. Because I'm not him."
America's Next Top Model airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on VH1.


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This week's blog is a review of the Jeffree Star X MannyMUA collaboration. This collaboration is limited addition but it is coming back in stock on Jeffree Star Cosmetics website this Saturday, May 13th at 10 am PST (Pacific Standard Time) so I said I would review it. There are three products in the collaboration a Skin Frost highlighter named "Eclipse" and two Velour Liquid Lipsticks "Daddy" and "I'm Shook". I'll be talking about:
- Product Description,
- My thoughts on the Products,
- Packaging and
- Price.
- Product Description:
The descriptions of all 3 products are as follows on Jeffree Star Cosmetics (JSC) website:
The Skin Frost Highlighter Eclipse is described as: "This shade is a blinding pale icy peach."
The Velour Liquid Lipstick shade Daddy is described as "This shade is a gorgeous cool toned brown." Lastly, I'm Shook which is also a Velour Liquid Lipstick, is described as "This shade is a beautiful medium toned burnt coral."
I agree with all of the product descriptions I think they perfectly surmise the shades.
A look I created using Eclipse Skin Frost.
- My Thoughts on the Products:
I have used Eclipse about 3 times I think and it is a beautiful blinding highlight. However, each time I have had the same issue when I apply it to my checks using the Real Techniques Setting Brush – which is the brush I always highlight with – it seems to wipe away what ever products I have underneath it, such as my foundation and concealer. It still applies to my checks and highlights my checks but I wish my base wasn't wiped away. I only have this problem on my checks it applies to my nose, chin, Cupid's bow and brow bone perfectly. I do not have any other of the JSC Skin Frosts so I cannot say if the others would do the same on my cheeks with the same highlighting brush. I really love this highlighter so I will continue to use it in the areas it does not wipe away my base and try different application techniques to get it to work on my checks.
Onto the Velour Liquid Lipsticks:
Daddy first, it is a lovely colour but I am not fond of it on myself. I feel it makes my skin look as if it has a greyish tinge and washes me out. I will continue to keep trying it and I hope I will eventually love it.
Onto I'm Shook. I love it, it is a very pretty summer colour and is very flattering on. I do have two of JSC's permanent Velour Liquid Lipsticks Celebrity Skin and Mannequin and in comparison I'm Shook is much more drying and uncomfortable on the lips than the permanent ones I own. I wear liquid lipstick often so I am used to them being drying and somewhat uncomfortable so that did not bother me. I find I'm Shook to be long lasting. As I have not worn Daddy for more than a few minutes I can not say whether it is long lasting or not. On application both Daddy and I'm Shook are highly pigmented and non-streaky.
Essentially I would recommend all three of the collaboration products. With Eclipse maybe use a different brush with it? The only reason I don't love Daddy is because I don't currently like it on me but that could change. There is nothing actually wrong with the product, it is just my own personal preference. I highly recommend I'm Shook I love it and will definitely be wearing it a lot.
Above are swatches on my hand of the Velour Liquid Lipsticks. I'm Shook is on top and Daddy is on the bottom.
- Packaging:
The packaging is amazing, you can tell a lot of thought and work went into it. The outer packaging on all three items is holographic black with a triangular effect which is very different for JSC whose permanent packaging is pink.
I will talk about the Skin Frost packaging first. The outer packaging is a square cardboard box. The inside of the box is pink. On the outer packaging, there is Manny's and JSC's logos and names, the product name, what the product is and the net weight which is 15g/0.53 oz. On the back is the barcode, states the product is vegan and cruelty-free, beauty tip on application, Manny's logo, ingredients, an American postal address, states it was made in the USA, JSC's web address and Instagram and Jeffree's YouTube channel URL. There is nothing on the sides of the box except for the top which has the shade name on it.
As for the compact that contains the Skin Frost, it is large, circular and matte black. On the lid is Jeffree Star Cosmetics logo and name in holographic. On the bottom of the compact is a lot of the information that was on the box except in pink font. Inside the compact on the lid, is a really big mirror which is fantastic. The skin has Jeffree's and Manny logos risen up from the compact which I think is a nice touch.
You can see in the photo how the logos are embossed and rise up from the Pan.
The Velour Liquid Lipsticks packaging which is the same for both Daddy and I'm Shook. The outer packaging is rectangular and cardboard and the inside of the boxes are pink. On the front are both YouTubers logos, what the product is and the net weight 0.19FL.0Z/ 5.6ML. On the right side, it states that they are long lasting, has a Matte Finish are Cruelty-Free and Vegan, application instructions the JSC's website and Instagram and Jeffree's YouTube Channel URL. On the back, it states the shade, has a barcode, says shake well before use and has Manny's logo. On the left side of the box is the list of ingredients, an American postal address and states it was made in the USA. The top of the box has the shade name and is blank on the bottom.
The Velour Liquid Lipstick container is clear on the bottom so you can see the product through it, has a black rim around the top with holographic stars. The lid is also black with the JSC logo which is holographic as well. There is a Doe Foot applicator attached to the lid for a clean, precise and easy application. The collaborations applicators are the same as Jeffree's permanent ones.
A collage of the packaging. In the top left is a photo of the products. The top right is the back of the outer packaging. The bottom left is the front of the outer packaging and the photo you get with the order. Middle bottom is the doe foot applicator for the Velour Liquid Lipsticks and on the bottom right is the front of the Skin Frost compact.
- Price.
I was unable to get the bundle so I purchased each item separately. The bundle whiich is exclusive to the JSC website contained all 3 items that come in a box and retailed for $50. The Skin Frost costs $29 which is the same price as the other JSC Skin Frosts. The Velour Liquid Lipsticks costs $18 each which is the same price as the permanent ones. The total was $65 but for the first time they had a discount code on JSC which is MANNYMUA for 10% off the products, plus shipping to Ireland which was $8.79, so my total was $67.29 which on that day was approximately €63. I did not get charged customs but that does not necessarily mean that other people didn't or that you will not if you order on Saturday.
Eclipse and I'm Shook are currently individually in stock on the Jeffree Star Cosmetics Website and Daddy is out of stock, I presume it'll be back in stock individually on Saturday. The bundle box is coming back into stock on Saturday.
I think for the size of the products and the fact that they are of a high-end quality that they are worth the money.
I will try new application techniques for Eclipse and if I find one that works I will post it on my Instagram: The Irish Unicorn Beauty Blog. Also if you want to know any of the products I used in look featured in this blog post they will be up on my Instagram also.
For this look I used Eclipse and I'm Shook.
I'd love to hear any thoughts you have on my blog, and if you have any of the products please let me know your opinion of them in the comments!
Disclaimer: all opinions expressed and photos used are my own. Prices quoted are correct at time of writing. This post is not sponsored.
Thank you for reading! I shall be posting another blog next Wednesday so stay tuned and I hope you have a fantastic week.

subset: commoncrawl


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Today is the day all of the math nerds come out to play, or at least 'fess up to their math nerdiness. I'm one of us. I openly admit today that I am fascinated with many math concepts and could happily solve complicated math problems all day long (as long as the word problems were limited). But enjoy the merciless teasing while you can because we all retreat back into our caves or alter egos tomorrow.
(By the way, today is March 14, 3-14. Pi is 3.14 for those of you who have selective amnesia about anything from high school math.)
My in-laws are planning to visit this week. I don't know any specific plans, but I think they were planning to get here sometime tomorrow. Considering the state the house is in right now, I hope they clarify "sometime" in enough time for me to feel comfortable letting them into the house. And I'm actually looking forward to the visit, even if it limits my blogging time. It's been long enough since we've seen them or my parents that I'm anxious for PJ to have some distraction. Besides, they always spoil the boys when they see them, almost to the point of embarrassment.
This morning was our once-a-year lawn overhaul. Early spring, the lawn needs tending again, and it's always bad after the winter. It needs much more than a simple mowing, so M decides it's worth paying someone to do all that hard work once a year. It was so weird being awakened by a lawn mower in our back yard. It was like being taken back in time to my high school years when my dad or older brother would get up early on Saturday mornings to do the lawn–every week during the spring, summer, and fall without fail. I griped about it back then, but the familiar drone behind our bedroom window was comforting today and lulled me right back to sleep.
Hehe, right now PJ is trying to share some of his big boy toys with his baby brother. BabyN doesn't have a clue what to do with them. I'd better go take some pictures while I can. This is too funny.


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Tropospheric sources and sinks of gas-phase acids in the Colorado Front Range
Published Date:2018
Source:Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, 18(16), 12315-12327.
Personal Authors:Mattila, J. M. ; Brophy, P. ; Kirkland, J. ; Hall, S. ; Ullmann, K. ; ... More ▼
Description:We measured organic and inorganic gas-phase acids in the Front Range of Colorado to better understand their tropospheric sources and sinks using a high-resolution time-of-flight chemical ionization mass spectrometer. Measurements were conducted from 4 to 13 August 2014 at the Boulder Atmospheric Observatory during the Front Range Air Pollution and Photochemistry Experiment. Diurnal increases in mixing ratios are consistent with photochemical sources of HNO3, HNCO, formic, propionic, butyric, valeric, and pyruvic acid. Vertical profiles taken on the 300 m tower demonstrate net surface-level emissions of alkanoic acids, but net surface deposition of HNO3 and pyruvic acid. The surface-level alkanoic acid source persists through both day and night, and is thus not solely photochemical. Reactions between O-3 and organic surfaces may contribute to the surface-level alkanoic acid source. Nearby traffic emissions and agricultural activity are a primary source of propionic, butyric, and valeric acids, and likely contribute photochemical precursors to HNO3 and HNCO. The combined diel and vertical profiles of the alkanoic acids and HNCO are inconsistent with dry deposition and photochemical losses being the only sinks, suggesting additional loss mechanisms.
Document Type:
Main Document Checksum:urn:sha256:5ca82e3934e0cd02123737fa23110f296c2f6044a642d1dbba98078b5d03edd8
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Personal Author:Jordan, C. E.; Pszenny, A. A. P.; Keene, W. C.; Cooper, O. R.; Deegan, B.; Maben, J.; Routhier, M.; Sander, R.; Young, A. H.;Published:2015Source:Journal of Geophysical Research-Atmospheres, 120(2), 678-694.Description:The Nitrogen, Aerosol Composition, and Halogens on a Tall Tower campaign (February-March 2011) near Boulder, Colorado, investigated nighttime ClNO2 production and processing. Virtually all particulate Cl was in the form of ionic Cl-. The size distrib...
Personal Author:Millet, D. B.; Baasandorj, M.; Farmer, D. K.; Thornton, J. A.; Baumann, K.; Brophy, P.; Chaliyakunnel, S.; de Gouw, J. A.; Graus, M.; Hu, L.; Koss, A.; Lee, B. H.; Lopez-Hilfiker, F. D.; Neuman, J. A.; Paulot, F.; Peischl, J.; Pollack, I. B.; Ryerson, T. B.; Warneke, C.; Williams, B. J.; Xu, J.;Published:2015Source:Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, 15(11), 6283-6304.Description:Formic acid (HCOOH) is one of the most abundant acids in the atmosphere, with an important influence on precipitation chemistry and acidity. Here we employ a chemical transport model (GEOS-Chem CTM) to interpret recent airborne and ground-based measu...
Personal Author:Alvarado, MatthewCorporate Author:


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Interline treaty signed between Aeroflot and Sibir (S7)
Moscow, 11th November 2008: The Interline treaty on commercial cooperation between «Aeroflot Russian Airlines» and JSC «Sibir» (S7) comes into effect today. Both airlines are going to mutually recognize their transport documents as well as the agreed terms of transportation and clearing procedures.
Presently, Aeroflot is working closely with 200 leading airlines around the world in the form of Interline treaties. This treaty with «Sibir» (S7) extends the cooperation of Russia's two largest airlines. Both airlines have been cooperating in cases of flight interruption since August 2006 regarding the transportation of passengers and their luggage.


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Top Tips to Reduce Your Chances of Suffering a Stroke
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Has any of your parents or other relatives suffered from stroke in the past? Chances are, you might also be a candidate for stroke. Stairlift companies say they receive hundreds of requests for home mobility assistance and stairlift information each month … Continue reading
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4 Ways to Avoid Sweating Too Much
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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Radiation Necrosis: Does It Really Work?
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If you're an athlete or a cancer patient, you're probably familiar with hyperbaric therapy. If you're not, you should be. It's a treatment option for people suffering from different conditions, including sports injuries and radiation necrosis. Hyperbaric therapy offers 100 … Continue reading
Testosterone Deficiency: Should You Get Tested?
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MULLER, Lillian 1921-2008
Posted By: Tammy (email)
Date: 11/6/2010 at 13:56:13
Lillian Muller, 86, of Grundy Center, Iowa, died Friday, May 2, 2008, at the Grundy Care Center in Grundy Center, Iowa.
Lillian was born on December 1, 1921 in Lincoln Township Grundy County, Iowa the daughter of Heiko and Tena (Grimmius) DeLange. She attended Lincoln Township Country School #8 thru the 8th grade.
On January 14, 1947 she was united in marriage to Sievert P. Muller Jr. in Grundy Center. Lillian was a school cook for many years retiring in December 1983. She was a member of Bethany Presbyterian Church in Grundy Center. She is survived by her 2 sons, Roger Muller and his wife Wendy of Grundy Center and Les Muller of Steamboat Rock, Iowa and Gaye Muller of Grundy Center; 2 grandsons, Scott Muller and his wife Somer of Grundy Center, Iowa, and Jordan Muller of North Liberty, Iowa; 2 granddaughters, Jessica Eilers and her husband Jeremy of Reinbeck and Angela Thoren and her husband Brent of Grundy Center; 5 great grandchildren Kolby Muller, Alaina Thoren, Kayden Muller Drew Eilers and Ryker Thoren; 2 sisters-in-law: Marilyn DeLange of Grundy Center, Iowa and Lena DeLange of Grundy Center, Iowa; and many neices and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Sievert; 3 brothers Tony, Gus and John DeLange; and 3 sisters Gertie Schmidt, Grace Schipper and Alyce Flater.
Grundy Obituaries maintained by Tammy D. Mount.
WebBBS 4.33 Genealogy Modification Package by WebJourneymen
Grundy Obituaries maintained by Tammy D. Mount.


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Psychologist, Therapist, or Post-Doctoral Fellow at Pica & Associates Psychological Services and Holistic Medicine
Saint Charles, IL 60174
About the Job
Pica & Associates Psychological Services and Holistic Medicine in St. Charles, Illinois, is seeking a full-time or part-time Psychologist (PhD or PsyD, license eligible, or post-doctoral fellow) or Psychotherapist to join our team. Experience with a wide age range of patients (children, adolescents, and adults) is preferred.
Practice opportunity details include:
- Provide assessment, psychotherapy and testing services in an outpatient setting to patients including: children, adolescents, adults, and families (psychologists only).
- Join a team of psychologists as well as Drug & Alcohol Professionals, Art Therapists, Naturopathic and Holistic Physicians, Post-partum Depression Therapists, and a variety of other practice specialties.
- Opportunity to create and run group therapy options under the approval of and oversight of the Clinical Director.
- Participate in community outreach and referral opportunities including but not limited to: Behavioral Health Fairs, Health & Wellness Expos, and more.
- Offices conveniently located in St. Charles and Geneva, IL offer the ability to see patients from a variety of cities in the Chicagoland Western Suburbs.
- Be a part of a large and growing practice that continues to expand services on an annual basis.
Qualifications Required:
- Doctorate from an APA-approved Clinical or Counseling Psychology program and Internship preferred.
- Applicants who are post doc should possess interest in continuing to work at Pica & Associates beyond post doc year.
- Ideally, candidates would possess a clinical interest and experience with a wide range of patient ages including: children, adolescents, and adults.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Contract


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Formal Tender - £2,500,000 Sold Subject to Contract
Haywood, Callow, Hereford
Haywood Poultry Site is the most outstanding broiler unit to come to the open market in Hereford for 20 years. The site covers 15 acres with 15 enrich ...moreView
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*Post sponsored by Discover Telford
Last weekend we were invited to enjoy a weekend of family fun in Shropshire by Discover Telford. They had invited us to stay in the region, enjoy some of the Christmas festivities at Shropshire's most popular tourist attractions and try out the delicious local foods. It was a weekend we were all really looking forward to and we were not disappointed. Grab a cuppa, it's a long one and don't forget to check out the vlog from our weekend towards the end of this post.


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Camp Hooded Quilted Shell Down Jacket - Red
by "Canada Goose" from "NET-A-PORTER"
Sold Out
Sizes: Small
Canada Goose's 'Camp' jacket is as practical and versatile as it is stylish. Made from water and wind-resistant shell fabric, it's cut for a slim fit and insulated with the brand's signature down padding to keep you warm on even the chilliest days. Zip up the funnel hood for added protection from the elements.


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- ALL Mass Intentions for the three churches will be taken in CTK Parish Office ONLY during office hours (8:30 AM-4:00 PM). Masses can be booked in person (in-person requests take precedent) or by phone.
- Because of our limited availability and the high demand for Mass Intentions, some restrictions will be necessary.
- Candle Intentions and the Saint Kateri Memorials are always available to honor a loved one. Cards are available to present to the family. Please call or visit the parish office to arrange.
Info: 585-544-8880


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CBD and dogs are an awesome pair, especially for Animals with precise overall health conditions. For this reason, additional businesses are acquiring new varieties of CBD Pet dog treats, liquids, tablets, gel pens and various products to take advantage of CBD oil's health benefits.
Urinary incontinence is actually a condition wherever your Doggy is unable to maintain his urine. Incontinence in senior dogs is a reasonably prevalent issue that...
Cannabidiol solutions are used for the therapeutic benefits without the need of suffering from psychoactive signs and symptoms of clinical marijuana.
In 1974, a analysis staff within the Clinical College or university of Virginia (acting in the behest on the federal govt) found out that cannabis inhibited malignant tumor mobile advancement in mobile tradition and in mice.
In some instances, anxiety is likewise a result of the activation of Mu-opioid receptors inside our body. CBD functions to be a modulator of the receptor and therefore, regulates its action resulting in a lessen in anxiety.
You'll find no less than two different types of cannabinoid receptors in mammalian tissues, dubbed CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are not just within the brain and spinal cord but in peripheral tissues too.
"Taken with each other, these effects strongly propose that CBD's common sebostatic action is accompanied by considerable anti-inflammatory effects, which would be greatly desired during the scientific treatment method of acne vulgaris." Watch Source
There's no difference between these 3 and it primarily depends on benefit and also your Canine's desire; nonetheless, it's achievable that CBD oil for dogs might have better absorption premiums.
Cannabis consists of various hundred compounds, together with a variety of flavonoids, aromatic terpenes, and lots of insignificant cannabinoids in addition to THC and CBD. Every of such compounds has certain therapeutic attributes, but when put together they build what researchers confer with as a holistic "entourage influence," so that the therapeutic affect of The complete plant is larger compared to sum of its one-molecule elements. The Food stuff and Drug administration, nevertheless, isn't within the enterprise of approving plants as drugs. [See the scientific proof
There are many CBD makes in existence! We feature only those who we have experimented with ourselves, and had tested at a 3rd social gathering lab. We want to make certain that all the good issues (like an correct number of cannabinoids) are in there!
According to the Life Sciences journal, scientific studies demonstrate a link in between cannabidiol and its likely to offer an antipsychotic outcome in bipolar sufferers.
"We'd like to keep up a demanding scientific point of view and protocols when it comes to new drugs," he claims. "We need double-blind experiments relevant to marijuana and all parts, analysis over the harms as opposed to the benefits, identification of the side effects and precise ailments identified by these research -- even for CBD,'' he claims.
Stephen see it here Valentino, MSc, has Formerly prepared about CBD for dogs As well as in his proof-centered article went via in excess of one hundred research that have witnessed the efficacy, basic safety and favourable effects of making use of CBD solutions for several different health circumstances.
As a result, we advised that GMSCs preconditioned with CBD possess a molecular profile That may be far more valuable for that procedure of Advert."
Detailed Notes on best quality CBD oil
CBD and dogs are an awesome pair, especially for Animals with precise overall health conditions. For this reason, additional businesses are acquiring new varieties of CBD Pet dog treats, liquids, tablets, gel pens and various products to take advantage of CBD oil's health benefits.


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St. Gregory's Catholic High School is fully committed to ensuring all pupils fulfil their true potential. To support them in their learning journey from Y7 to Y11, we provide a range of packages offering guidance, advice and support.
Miss Herridge
Numeracy Co-ordinator
A structured course that builds on basic mathematical skills, delivered with the assistance of Y10 student coaches.
Reading Advocates is a paired reading scheme that runs during registration lead by Miss Herridge. It allows Year 9 Reading Advocates to work in a leadership role to support Year 7 and 8 pupils with their reading.
Specific Year 7 and 8 pupils are invited to attend one session a week and work with a specific Year 9 advocate who supports their reading and understanding. They will support and challenge pupils in their choice of books and also aim promote regular reading for pleasure.


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Big Pharma Round-Up III
A lot happened in the world of pharmaceuticals this year. The opioid crisis worsened. The FDA got a new chief. There were big failures and prices reemerged as a major issue. Industry needed to contend with the new Trump administration and gene therapy 'came of age.' By the way, here is one year in review … More Big Pharma Round-Up III


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Chained by silk and jewels
Across the bustling nightclub, bodyguard Zahir El Hashem watches his latest charge swaying temptingly on the dance floor, his pulse quickening. Returning the Princess to her bridegroom might not be such a simple operation after all…
Soraya Karim has always known one day she must resume her royal obligations-just not so soon! Clinging to the last shreds of her freedom, Soraya insists they take the long way back to Bakhara – and their attraction reaches a dangerous fever pitch…
Once they reach the gates of the palace such a liaison will be utterly forbidden. From then duty must reign…Read an Excerpt Behind the Book
"A flawlessly written romance written by a mistress (mistress? I mean this as a compliment!) of the art of romance writing. The dilemma of duty versus the heart is fully explored. Full of emotion and sparkle, this is a novel which won't let you go until you turn the final page." ~ Maria, GoodReads
"A compelling book, DEFYING HER DESERT DUTY, draws the reader in with passionate characters placed in morally challenging positions. Soraya's and Zahir's allegiance to a good man and leader of their country collides with their love for each other, providing tension and emotional intensity that only the brilliantly gifted Annie West can create." ~ 5 stars, Donna Zapf from CataRomance
"Loved this book! I've read and loved a lot of Annie West books, but this would have to be one of my favorites. So much tension between two very headstrong people. I felt like I was on an adventure with Soraya in this road trip with a twist. " ~ Margie, Amazon
"DEFYING HER DESERT DUTY is a story of an honorable hero, who appears uncompromising and domineering on the outside but really is intensely emotional and tender. It's also a tale of a heroine who is wholly loyal to her family and the crown, yet punched in the gut by love and its emotional consequences. Author Annie West's mastery of subtleties in relationships is amazing to read. Her characters are amazing in their complexities, their interaction and their growing love for each other." ~ 4.5 out of 5 stars, Nas Dean from Contemporary Romance Reviews
"This is a wonderful story with lots of tension as Zahir and Soraya travel through France and Italy on their way back to Bakhara. They learn that first impressions are not always true and as they get closer both realize they are falling in love but they must think about their duty to their country…I loved this story – it kept me up late. Ms West really knows how to write a story that is filled with angst and passion." ~ Helen S from Romancing the Tome, Newsletter of the Australian Romance Readers Assn
'Soraya. What are you doing down here when the party's in full swing upstairs?'
Zahir halted several paces away. His eyes ate her up, luscious in a long dress of dusky rose. A gown that was innocently demure by the standards of the scantily dressed socialites at the party. Yet it skimmed her body in a way that reminded him too clearly of the hour glass figure that tempted him during each day's swimming lesson.
Heat clutched deep in his belly.
Her scent, wildflowers rather than hothouse exotics, teased his nostrils. Her hair, held back by jewelled clips, cascaded down her back in a ripple of thick silk.
More than one man had cast covetous eyes on her tonight and Zahir had been busy staking a possessive claim on her to prevent any untoward advances.
Staking a claim on behalf of Hussein, he reminded himself.
She half turned but didn't meet his eyes. 'I wanted some peace and quiet.'
At her words he stiffened. He'd seen her excited, happy, indignant and angry but never listless.
There'd been inevitable tension after their kiss. But he'd worked hard not to let her see that taste of her had driven him to the brink of endurance. For her part, Soraya had thrown herself into sightseeing with a fervour that gave no hint she wanted anything else.
At first he'd wondered if she was a little too enthusiastic, then chided himself. It wasn't that he wanted her pining for what could never be.
'You're not enjoying yourself?' Tonight he'd sought safety in numbers. This exclusive society party had seemed a perfect alternative to a night alone with Soraya and the terrible gnawing tension within.
Beautiful women with come hither eyes and smiles that promised pleasure were here tonight in droves. Yet none had drawn a second glance from him.
Not one could hold a candle to Soraya for beauty or character. She was gentle, despite her bravado in standing up for herself, capable, caring, inquisitive and deeply fascinating. Her fierce independence, her determination and natural exuberance entranced him. With her he'd felt more than he had in a decade and a half. It was like emerging from a grey half life into a world of sunshine and colour.
'The party is amazing. Thank you for bringing me.' Yet she didn't sound as enthusiastic as when she discussed her research project. 'So many interesting people. So many celebrities. And I've never seen so much bling in my life.'
She shook her head and those long tresses slid and curled around her slim back. Was it ridiculous to resent the fact she wore her hair down tonight? He hated the way men looked at her, imagining that bountiful hair loose around her shoulders as she made love.
He knew they did. Any man would.
He did. God help him!
'But it's only days till our flight from Rome to Bakhara.' Her husky words drew his belly tight. 'It's crept up on me and I needed time to digest it.'
She went home to marry the finest man he knew.
Zahir ignored the wave of nausea that passed through him at the thought.
'I know Hussein is looking forward to seeing you.' If Hussein had any idea of the lovely woman she'd become, he'd be eager for her arrival.
Soraya bowed her head as if in assent. But her grip on the railing reminded him of a falcon's claws clamped hard and sharp on a leather glove.
'Soraya?' He took a pace towards her then, realising, stopped. 'Are you all right?'
'Of course.' She tilted her chin up as she stared across the shimmering brightness. 'What could be wrong?'
Something was. He'd come to recognise the way she angled that neat chin as a defence mechanism.
He reminded himself his duty was simply to return her safe to Bakhara, not delve into her thoughts and fears.
Yet telling himself couldn't make it so. Nor could he banish the suspicion he knew exactly what was wrong. That despite her proud front, Soraya felt as he did. That they'd circled an unspoken truth for weeks.
'Tell me!'
Perhaps the harsh gravel in his voice surprised her for she turned her head, eyes wide and it was there again, that jangle along the senses as if lightning had sparked between them.
Damn it. He shouldn't feel this. He shouldn't feel anything except impersonal concern for her wellbeing.
Yet what he felt was personal. Far too personal.
Did she feel it too? Is that why she whipped her head round so fast?
'Soraya. Please.' It was no good telling himself this was merely a job. It had ceased to be just a job the moment he saw her in that Paris nightclub.
'I don't want to go back,' she said at last. 'I don't want…' Her voice dipped and she swallowed convulsively. That single movement spoke of a vulnerability that tugged at something in his very core. Something he couldn't name.
He found himself behind her. Not touching, but mirroring her body with his as if to protect her. He couldn't keep back.
'What don't you want, Soraya?' His breath held.
A deep breath lifted her narrow shoulders. 'I don't want to marry the Emir.'
Soraya and Zahir's story owes a lot to the old Tristan and Iseult legend. There are various versions but one I know is that Tristan is sent by his king to the lovely Iseult to escort her back with him for her royal marriage to the much older king. Along the way Iseult and Tristan fall in love and that's where things become complicated. The versions vary on what happens next and whether the ending is tragic or romantic
As a romance writer I had to believe my pair could find a happy ending, but frankly, when I started writing, I wasn't sure how that would happen. All I knew was that both Soraya and Zahir feel they owe a lifetime's debt to the Emir who is planning to marry Soraya. The last thing either of them wants to do is betray him. But from the moment they meet they discover an instant, blood-sizzling attraction for each other. That makes their journey, alone together, a real test of character and willpower. Soon things get worse as they begin to realise it's love they feel, not simple physical attraction. That's when things become really difficult! This is an intense story fuelled by the tug of forbidden love vs duty
My characters come from a Middle Eastern kingdom where arranged marriages aren't unusual. But Soraya has been studying far away in Paris, where she's begun to discover a world and a way of life outside her own. She's begun to dream of the life she might have if she were free to pursue her own goals rather than marry out of obligation. When she discovers she's got no option but to travel with the brooding and far too sexy Zahir, she makes one stipulation – that they travel the long, slow way home. She's not ready to marry yet.
As a result the early part of this book is set in Paris and parts of rural France including the Loire Valley and the lovely Perigord around the Dordogne River. The pair travel by way of Monte Carlo and Rome before finally arriving in the desert kingdom of Bakhara.
I was lucky as I wrote this story as I'd not long ago spent some time travelling in France. Most of the places you read about in the book are based on real locations I had the luck to visit and enjoy. In some cases I changed them a little, for instance the Chateau Azay le Rideau provided inspiration for a luxury hotel surrounded by forest and rose gardens. Others, like Clos Luce, where Leonardo da Vinci once lived, are as I recall them.
I hope you have a marvellous time with Soraya and Zahir, as they battle the odds to find their happy ending.


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Hurricane Alice (June 1954)
|Category 2 hurricane (SSHWS/NWS)
Track map of Hurricane Alice
|June 24, 1954
|June 26, 1954
|Highest winds
|1-minute sustained: 110 mph (175 km/h)
|Lowest pressure
|≤ 975 mbar (hPa); 28.79 inHg
|$2 million (1954 USD)
|Areas affected
|Mexico, Texas
|Part of the 1954 Atlantic hurricane season
Hurricane Alice was the second-strongest Atlantic hurricane to make landfall in the month of June since reliable records began in the 1850s. While not a major hurricane, the storm was linked to catastrophic flooding in southern Texas and northern Mexico, especially along the Rio Grande and its tributaries. The third tropical cyclone and first hurricane of the 1954 Atlantic hurricane season, Alice was one of two storms to receive the same name that year, the other being an unusual post-season hurricane that persisted into the new year of 1955, becoming one of only two January hurricanes on record (the other having formed in 1938). The first Alice developed rather suddenly on June 24 over the Bay of Campeche, though it may well have formed earlier but went undetected due to limited surface weather observations. Moving northwestward, Alice strengthened rapidly as it neared the Mexican coastline, becoming a hurricane early the next day. By midday on June 25, the hurricane reached peak winds of 110 miles per hour (177 km/h) before moving inland well south of the U.S.–Mexico border. The storm struck an area with few inhabitants and caused relatively minimal impacts from wind near the point of landfall and in southern Texas.
As it moved inland, however, Alice produced prolific rains along and near the Rio Grande, resulting in some of the worst flooding ever seen in parts of northern Mexico and southern Texas;[1] in some areas, the flooding amounted to a one-in-1,000-year event. The Pecos River crested at 96.24 ft (29.33 m), which joined with the Rio Grande to produce significant flooding. The floods destroyed bridges and dikes and flooded many cities along the inner reaches of the river, which reached its highest water levels since 1865. As the river overflowed its banks, floods breached the dikes at Piedras Negras, Coahuila, destroying large sections of the town. Other communities in Mexico reported significant flood damage. In the United States, damage was heaviest in Ozona, Texas, where the floods killed 15 people and caused $2 million in damage (1954 USD). Rainfall peaked at over 24.07 in (611 mm), most of which fell in a 24‑hour period. In all, flooding from Hurricane Alice killed at least 55 people, including 17 in the U.S. and 38 in Mexico, though many deaths in rural Mexico may have gone unreported; the total death toll could have exceeded 150.
Meteorological history[edit]
At 12:00 UTC on June 24, 1954, a moderate tropical storm formed about 270 miles (435 km) east of Tampico, Tamaulipas, with winds of 60 miles per hour (97 km/h).[2] In 2015, NOAA researchers working on reanalysis with the Hurricane Research Division examined observations to determine whether Alice formed earlier, but were unsuccessful due to sparse surface weather observations over the Bay of Campeche.[3] The first observation of gale-force winds occurred at 18:00 UTC on June 24, when a ship reported 60-mile-per-hour (97 km/h) winds and an atmospheric pressure of 999 millibars (29.50 inHg), indicating a well-developed cyclone in the area. Based on these data, scientists concluded that Alice likely formed earlier than indicated, but went undetected until that day.[3] Regardless, Alice steadily intensified almost immediately upon detection as it headed northwestward, strengthening into the equivalent of a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale by 00:00 UTC on June 25.[4][2] Early on that day, a ship calibrated the rapid strengthening of the storm, measuring winds of 85 mph (137 km/h) at 08:17 UTC.[3] As Alice neared the coast of Mexico, reconnaissance aircraft known as Hurricane Hunters began tracking the eye of the hurricane, but apparently did not penetrate the center of the storm. They did, however, provide information about the position of the storm.[3]
The storm continued to intensify rapidly as it approached the coastline south of the United States–Mexico border. Based on aircraft observations, research suggests that Alice made landfall about 60 mi (97 km) south of Matamoros, Tamaulipas, at 14:00 UTC on June 25.[3][2] The storm affected a thinly populated segment of the Mexican coastline, and few observations were available to determine the strength of the hurricane. One report, taken about 100 mi (161 km) south of Brownsville, Texas, suggested top winds of at least 70 to 80 mph (113 to 129 km/h).[4] Prior to scientific reexamination, HURDAT—the official database containing tracks and intensities of cyclones in the North Atlantic and Eastern North Pacific regions—listed top winds of 80 mph (129 km/h) at landfall in Mexico.[3] However, a radiosonde, launched from Brownsville in time for the 12:00 UTC observation, recorded winds of 150 mph (241 km/h) from the southeast at 3,000 feet (914 m) in elevation. Based on this measurement, which may have represented winds in the eyewall, researchers determined that Hurricane Alice was likely significantly stronger at landfall than previously assessed.[3] They analyzed Alice as having struck Mexico with winds of 110 mph (177 km/h), while noting the great uncertainty and the possibility that the storm may have even been much stronger than this.[2] The central pressure in the eye was probably 975 mb (28.79 inHg) or lower, as corroborated by observations well inland in Texas.[3] Therefore, Alice was at least equivalent to a high-end Category 2 hurricane at landfall and conceivably could have attained major hurricane status.
After landing, Hurricane Alice gradually weakened as it approximately followed the Rio Grande, crossing into southern Texas near La Grulla just before 00:00 UTC on June 26.[2] The storm by then had weakened back to a moderate tropical storm with winds of 60 mph (97 km/h), but it still produced gale-force winds in several communities across southern Texas; a few areas in Texas may have even experienced hurricane-force winds for brief periods before the storm entered the state, but there are no observations to confirm such winds.[3] The storm likely caused winds of at least 70 mph (113 km/h) in southern Texas. As it crossed into Texas, Tropical Storm Alice curved more to the north-northwest early on June 26 before assuming a sharp bend back westward later in the day.[2] The storm degenerated into a tropical depression by 18:00 UTC and dissipated early on June 27 near the Big Bend National Park in Texas.[4][2]
Before Alice moved ashore, about 50 Girl Scouts at a camp were evacuated to a center in Brownsville, Texas.[5] The residents of Padre Island were also evacuated. Residents in the storm's path were unprepared due to the storm forming suddenly. The United States Coast Guard spread the word about the storm by traversing the coast and advising residents to seek shelter. Officials at the U.S. Weather Bureau posted northwest storm warnings for the Brownsville area, recommending that small boats to stay at harbor.[6] Damages along the coastline at the point of landfall were relatively light.[4] Winds in Brownsville reached 62 mph (100 km/h), which created flying debris that injured one man.[6] Moderate to strong gales affected the Rio Grande Valley inland over southern Texas.[3] Across the border, minor damage was reported in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, and one person there was killed by a fallen power line.[6] A few shrimp fishing boats were driven ashore by heavy winds.[7] Although later there was severe flooding further inland, a dam along the Rio Grande prevented significant flooding in the Brownsville area.[8]
Most of the damage resulting from Alice was caused by heavy rain in the inland areas of Texas, Tamaulipas and Coahuila; damage was exacerbated in these areas by drought conditions that rendered the soil especially vulnerable to erosion.[7] Estimates of peak rainfall within 12 hours vary from 22 inches (56 cm)[7] to 26 inches (132 cm),[9] and a total of 35 inches (89 cm) of rain fell in 24 hours, approaching the world record that had been set by an unnamed hurricane in Texas in 1921.[10] However, a 2010 report on the storm's rainfall indicated a maximum of 24.07 in (611 mm) near Pandale,[11] of which 16.02 in (407 mm) fell in a 24‑hour period.[12]
The peak rainfall occurred in a small area centered near the Pecos River. A location along the Johnson Draw reported 11 in (280 mm) of rainfall after receiving minimal precipitation in the previous three years. In addition, some locals in western Texas experienced rainfall from Alice that exceed yearly averages. This contributed to significant flooding along the Pecos River, reaching a flood stage of 55 ft (17 m) in Pandale. The flooding swept away a group of fishermen in Sheffield as well as at a location 10 mi (16 km) north of Pandale, killing four. Downstream, the river crested at 96.24 ft (29.33 m), which washed out a highway and three railroad bridges.[12] A temporary bridge was built between Eagle Pass and Piedro Negro by July 10, or two weeks after the storm.[13] The destroyed rail lines stranded a Sunset Limited train, which prompted the passengers to evacuate to nearby Langtry.[12] The flooding also stranded a Southern Pacific train, whose occupants were later evacuated by helicopters.[13] The peak river crest corresponded to a discharge rate of 948,000 ft³/s (26,800 m³/s), which the International Boundary and Water Commission remarked was "probably the greatest rate of runoff for a watershed of [that] size in the United States."[12] Heavy rain fell across all of southern Texas and northern Mexico as a result of Alice, causing flash floods in inland areas.[7] Ozona, Texas was the town most affected by the floods, sustaining $2 million in damage (1954 USD),[14] as well as 15 deaths. Early on the morning of June 25, a "wall of water" as high as 30 feet (9.2 m) poured out of a dry gully and overwhelmed most of the town.[7] Roughly a third of Ozona had to be evacuated, and many livestock there were killed.[13] About 500 families were left homeless in the town.[15] United States military helicopters worked to rescue people trapped by the floodwaters.[8] In all, at least seven towns experienced flooding from the storm on either side of the border,[14] including Lamesa and Laredo, Texas which were badly damaged by flash floods.[7]
The Rio Grande rose well above flood level at the cities of Eagle Pass, Texas and Piedras Negras, Coahuila. While the city of Eagle Pass was evacuated, Piedras Negras was not. Both cities were completely flooded, and the dike intended to protect Piedras Negras from floods was washed away. At least 38 people (some sources say 39) were killed in Piedras Negras after the dike collapsed.[4][7] In Eagle Pass, the commercial sector was flooded by over 8 ft (2.4 m) of waters, which let heavy losses.[13] Before the storm began producing heavy rainfall, officials anticipated moderate river flooding that would peak at less than the flood of 1948.[12] The river crested at Laredo, Texas, where waters reached a peak of 62.2 feet (19 m), at least 10 feet (3 m) above the previous record flood.[7] High waters caused the water treatment plants to fail there, which prevented the safe delivery of fresh water until July 1.[13] The International Bridge connecting Laredo and Nuevo Laredo was swept away.[7] Although severe damage occurred in the latter city, no deaths were recorded in either city due to evacuations.[13] Flooding along the Rio Grande was the highest since 1865,[11] and was considered a 1 in 2000 year event.[16] About 12,000 people were evacuated from nearby Ciudad Acuña following the flood.[14] There, the floods left heavy damage.[13]
Estimates for total death toll range from 55[4] to 153.[7] Death toll estimates for Texas range from 17[4] to 38,[9] though official records indicate that the 38 deaths occurred in Mexico rather than Texas.[4] Estimates of the deaths in Mexico, where records are less complete, vary more widely.[4][7] Several of the deaths in Texas were homeless people attempting to enter the United States, and as a result their deaths were not counted.[13] Monetary damage figures are not available, but it is known that flooding from Alice caused considerable damage to crops, primarily cotton.[4]
Aftermath and records[edit]
While Alice left almost unprecedented flooding in its wake, the storm itself was not an unheard-of occurrence: a similar storm in 1921, which followed a comparative track, caused significant flooding in Texas as well, albeit not in the same areas affected by the floods of 1954.[3] Following the devastation left by Alice, members of the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Army flew 21 helicopters with over 81 tons of relief supplies to the affected people of Mexico and Texas, including food, water, medicine, and clothing.[8] The disastrous flooding caused by Hurricane Alice along the Rio Grande accelerated the joint US–Mexico Amistad Dam project, a series of flood control dams designed to prevent similar catastrophes in the future. The project, in the planning stages for decades before the storm, was finally begun in 1960.[17]
Leftover waters from the storm led to an increase in mosquitoes in Texas, which prompted a widespread application of larvicide via airplane. On July 1, the flood areas of southern Texas were declared a major disaster area. This followed a delivery of 2 flood specialists, 20 laborers, 2 portable water treatment plants, 7 trucks, and a quantity of insecticides and water treatment tablets.[13] Residents in Laredo, Texas provided citizens of its neighboring city Nuevo Laredo, Mexico with food and water. The Mexican government provided temporary homes for the affected citizens of the flood. American officials distributed typhoid vaccinations, water purification tablets, and insecticides to the American cities along the Rio Grande. Safe water was eventually restored to Laredo, Texas on July 12. All emergency work related to the disaster was finished by September 3.[13]
Besides flooding, Hurricane Alice was also notable for another reason: it made landfall with some of the strongest winds in a June hurricane on record. With top winds of 110 mph (177 km/h), the cyclone was the second-strongest Atlantic hurricane to make landfall in the month of June, behind only Hurricane Audrey in 1957, which made landfall in Louisiana with winds of 145 mph (233 km/h).[2] The storm was somewhat analogous to Hurricane Alex, which also affected the same region in 2010 with winds of 110 mph (177 km/h), though Alex made landfall in early July.[2]
See also[edit]
- ^ "Texas – Climate". city-data.com. 2006. Retrieved 2007-02-07.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i "Atlantic hurricane best track (HURDAT version 2)" (Database). United States National Hurricane Center. December 12, 2019.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k National Hurricane Center; Hurricane Research Division; Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory (May 2015). "Atlantic hurricane best track (HURDAT) Meta Data". United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Office of Oceanic & Atmospheric Research. Archived from the original on 2011-06-04. Retrieved 2015-05-26.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j Davis, Walter R. (December 1954). "Hurricanes of 1954" (PDF). Monthly Weather Review. United States Department of Commerce. p. 370. Retrieved 2007-02-06.
- ^ Staff Writer (1954-06-23). "First Hurricane is Reported". United Press. Retrieved 2011-08-06.
- ^ a b c Staff Writer (1954-06-23). "Gale Hits Mexico". The Victoria Advocate. Associated Press. Retrieved 2011-08-06.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k "Evil Alice". TIME Magazine. Time Inc. July 1954. Retrieved 2007-02-06.
- ^ a b c Daniel Haulman (1998). "The United States Air Force and Humanitarian Airlift Operations 1947–1994" (PDF). Air Force History and Museums Program. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2011-07-22. Retrieved 2011-08-06.
- ^ a b Freeman, John C. (2007). "Texas Tropical Storms and Hurricanes". Weather Research Center. Retrieved 2007-02-06.
- ^ Metz, John (2006). "Weather Outlook for Texas, 2006" (PDF). National Weather Service (NWS). p. 55. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2006-09-21. Retrieved 2007-02-06.
- ^ a b David Roth (2010-01-13). "Hurricane Alice – June 24–27, 1954". Hydrometeorological Prediction Center. Retrieved 2011-08-05.
- ^ a b c d e Jonathan Burnett (2008). Flash floods in Texas. Texas A&M University Press. pp. 151–161. ISBN 978-1585445905. Retrieved 2011-08-05.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j F. J. Von Zuben, Jr.; et al. (November 1957). "Public Health Disaster Aid in the Rio Grande Flood of 1954". Public Health Reports. 72 (11): 1009–17. PMC 2031412. PMID 13485295.
- ^ a b c Staff Writer. "Rio Grande Floods 7 Towns; 6 Die, Thousand Homeless". Sarasota Herald-Tribune. United Press. Retrieved 2011-08-06.
- ^ Staff Writer (1954-06-29). "Rio Grande in Biggest Flood Ever". Greensburg Daily Tribune. United Press. Retrieved 2011-08-06.
- ^ John Nielsen-Gammon; Howard Johnson (2004-04-01). "Texas and Oklahoma's Greatest Hits". Texas Office of the State Climatologist. Retrieved 2011-08-05.
- ^ "The Great Acuña Flood of 1954". Del Rio Chamber of Commerce. 2006. Archived from the original on 2007-02-25. Retrieved 2007-02-07.


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Designing your company's first logo! Be creative, thoughtful and logical because your logo is your brand's face. A good and attractive logo will create a good impression on others and as you know how important the first impression is.
So, design a well-created logo that describes the values and vision of your brand. The logo is not just a symbol, it's a powerful asset therefore it requires more than an attractive graphic design.
Designing a logo also needs a specific skill, practice and experience as well. Therefore knowledge about the company and graphic designing is must to create a successful logo.
That's why we have listed 7 important golden rules to follow while designing a corporate logo.
1. Understand your need
Creating a logo is like planning for a date where you can attract the right customers for your brand. Customers will be attracted to your company and product when they see the logo. They will take more interest in learning more about you.
All your products, website, pull up banners, pop up displays, business cards and other materials that you will use for branding will have a logo. Therefore, it is very essential that you know your needs. The logo has more power than you think so get it done by the best professional logo designer.
2. Brand identity
A logo communicates or reflects the personality of your brand. Hence you have to identify it and have clarity of mind on how unique or different your brand is. Once you know it, you will be able to make the right choices for the logo design that will complete or complement your brand's personality.
- Why did you start the company?
- What are the values and beliefs that are important for your company?
- What makes you better than others?
- How would you describe your brand?
- How your customers should see your company?
Ask the above questions to yourself to know about the identity that your company holds.
3. Get inspiration
Your corporate logo should have an inspiration factor for other business however it is the hardest part. But, you are lucky as we have got some tips to help you find some inspiration for your design.
Brainstorming- gets all the good and bad ideas onto paper
Think like the customers– simply think what a customer would think of your company when they see the logo.
Involve everyone– don't do it alone, involve your partner, friends, employees or others to help you design a logo.
4. Competition
Your competitors can really help you in getting more ideas for your logo. Yes, really as you can understand how they put their values in the logo and what makes them special. Think of the part they have missed out and use them in your design.
Don't copy any ideas but do something different out of it. You may go for the same color or style but be creative or you can go for a traditional one.
5. Design style
Once you got inspiration and understand the brand's identity you are ready to fill your paper with some designs. However, some elements are needed to be figured out like shapes, graphics and color. Think of each element carefully, like what color is good and go step by step.
You can try out different styles right from aesthetic to modern or traditional. Try out everyone and check out which one fits best for your brand.
- Classic– classic style is good to reach broader audience and stay in power. This style logo tells the audience that your brand is worthy and reliable.
- Vintage– vintage or retro styles are always trendy and they quickly evoke romantic feelings while telling them that history also matters along with beauty.
- Modern-a minimum and modern look with simple lines and detailing is enough to tell your customers about your cool and fresh brand.
- Fun and quirky– the popular choice of style is one that has some fun and colorful illustration of the company. This creates positive and friendly feelings in the customer's eyes and your brand shines more than others in the market.
6. The right type
There are 7 different types of logo. You can either pick one or use their combination.
- Letter marks logos
- Word marks
- Pictorial marks
- Abstract logo marks
- Mascots
- Combination mark
- Emblem
Try any of these to make an effective logo for your company.
7. Color
Different colors have different meanings. Emotions and ideas are attached to each color so before you pick any color learn about the psychology behind them. For example- red color reflects passion, anger and excitement and orange reflects vibrancy and invigorating. You can also use complementary colors or triadic colors.


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You know that friend that loves change, speaks their mind and isn't afraid to be 100% themselves. Well that's me. I'm that wife that dares to take on my husband in a wrestling match and am even convinced that one day I will beat him. I'm that mom that makes up songs for my kids as we're driving in the car and acts like a complete dork just to hear them laugh. I'm that stranger who doesn't know a stranger and that person who smiles at everyone. This is me. I'm Britt.
Brittany went above and beyond not only to make our wedding pictures perfect, but to make us feel comfortable and less stressed during the process! I did not know the first thing about wedding photos or what all I wanted captured, but she did a great job of walking me through everything, what photos couples normally want, etc. she went through the timeline with us beforehand to ensure we knew everything happening on our wedding day and even gave us great tips to help the day run smoothly! To top it all off, our pictures turned out better than we could have ever imagined! Working with Brittany was the best decision we could have made!
Brittany's work is truly incredible! We had her do our engagement session first, she made us feel so comfortable, got great pictures all around the city and connected so well with us. We ended up having a lot of fun too! We were doing a destination wedding and just knew we had to bring her with to shoot our special day. She was very organized, relaxed, and made the process so easy. We are in love with all of our pictures and are so grateful to have these memories to cherish forever!
My husband and I absolutely love Brittany Spann and her work. From the very beginning, she went above and beyond to make us feel comfortable and special. We love how she listened to our vision and brought it to life. Seeing how wonderful of a job she did with my wedding, I helped two of my bridesmaids make the decision to use her for their weddings as well. We all love her. She was a huge part of making my wedding special and I would tell anyone who can to bring her on!


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Moomtaz Emrith
(Windsor, ON, Canada)
RUMI, or by his full name Jalal-Uddin Muhammed Rumi, is the most widely known of the Persian mystics in the West and, evidently, he is also the most read. His admirers transcend faiths and cultures. His influence in the evolution of SUFISM is deep and unmistakable and he ranks among those giants of the Spiritual Order. Rumi wrote mostly in Persian and till to-day enjoys immense popularity and influence in Turkey, Iran as well as in Tajikistan, Greece and other South Asians countries.
Indeed, his influence has always transcended national borders and ethnic divisions and, in many of these societies, his name is a household word. So much so, it is not surprising to hear common folks from the region quoting Rumi in the original Persian. Indeed, he is revered as a Master, a Mevlana — title by which he is generally known in the Middle Eastern countries. He is, indirectly, the 'founder' of Sufi mazhab — the Order of the Whirling Dervish — which enjoys high popularity in Turkey. In fact, in Konya, where he is buried, his tomb is a revered shrine where his followers and admirers gather in pilgrimage every year on December 17 — the day of his Urs — the anniversary of his death — and all Konya goes into a colourful festive spiritual mood. The city teems with spiritual fervour and activities on the part of his countless admirers and followers of the Mevlana highlighted by the impressive and stirring dance of the « Whirling Dervishes » who all go in a trance as they whirl round and round, round and round to the rhythmic beat of the drum and soothing music of the flute and the string instruments intoning to the sacred verses of the Holy Qur'an till the participants go into a trance and see themselves become one with the world about them. Is not what Sufism is all about? Unity with the Beloved, with God is what Rumi eloquent message is all about!
Like Farid-uddin Attar of Nishapur and Hakim Abul Majid Sana'i of Ghaznavi and other Persian Sufi greats, he was a highly beloved spiritual leader, affectionately known by his countless followers as Mavlana or Mevlana — which means « Learned Leader ».
Rumi was born on September 30, 1207, in Balkh, now in Afghanistan, to a Sunni-Muslim family. His father was a very learned man and Rumi grew up to be much more than a poet although it is as a sufi and mystic that his reputation has survived the centuries and his admirers and followers have ever continued to grow over the years. Rumi was also a great jurist, an Islamic scholar and theologian. His childhood was tumultuous. He lived at a time when Ghengis Khan and his Mongol hordes were ransacking the Islamic world. They sacked Baghdad and left in its wake nothing but destruction and desolation. They literally destroyed the flourishing Islamic Empire that was at the zenith of its golden age, destroying institutions and libraries, burning books leaving nothing but desolation and misery in its trail. So much so Rumi's parents were constantly on the move, looking for a peaceful heaven to settle down and raise their children. Thus, before he was thirteen, Rumi had been to Baghdad, Mecca, Isfahan and finally to Konya, in Turkey, where he would spend the rest of his life. Konya, Anatolia, which is now modern-day Turkey but which was then a part of the Roman (Rum) Empire — hence the name « RUMI » –which means « Roman. »
In the background the Shrine of Mevlana Rumi where he is buried, and his shrine is a site of pilgrimage for many of his The Dance of the « Whirling Dervishes » or Mevlana Order so called after Rumi himself countless admirers.
Rumi's work has great universal appeal and his admirers and followers transcends the barriers of race or religion and they include Muslims and non-Muslims alike. It is said his funeral was attended by Jews, Christians and Muslims alike. He was a giant of figure and was ever held high in esteem, reverence and respect.
For, Rumi's message is one of love — divine love –, peace and unity with God. Rumi wrote about longing, about pains, about sorrow and about finding inner peace and tranquility — which all form the eloquent themes of his works. He wrote Ghazals, Rubay'yat (Quatrains) and long poems in rhyming couplets. His Shams-e-Tabrizi that he wrote following the disappearance of his friend and mentor Shams Tabrizi and later his masterpiece — the Masnavi — in six volumes — all reckoned as unequalled masterpieces in their own right. The Masnavi is described by critics as « the Persian Qur'an » — in the sense that it is a work of great beauty in terms of style, content wrapped in enthusing rhyme and rhythm. Rumi was a musician and he loved to sing and dance to his compositions – a feature that would lead to the founding of the Mevlana Sufi Order or the Order of the Whirling Dervishes — after his death, by his eldest son.
Rumi is, undoubtedly, the greatest of the Sufi poets in Islamic history. He is a giant in his own right, revered and respected and adulated by his admirers wherever Persian is spoken. Eight centuries after his death, his memory lives on and his works are as admired and read as they have always been. His works continue to be translated in the major languages of the world and he remains among the most read poets in the world. In the U.S., his translated works are among the most read poet to-day. Jalal-uddin Rumi is, there is no gainsaying the fact that he is giant of world literature.


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One Tree Planted for Every Tree Sold
Whole Foods Market and American Forests
This year, thanks to a partnership between Whole Foods Market and American Forests, for every full-size tree purchased at your local Whole Foods Market, we will make a donation to American Forests, an organization that has been protecting and restoring America's forests since 1875, to plant new evergreen trees in state and national forests.
American Forests partners with organizations (such as Whole Foods Market) and the U.S. Forest Service to help restore forest ecosystems in all 50 U.S. states and nearly 50 countries around the world.
Working together, more than 50 million trees have been planted since 1990. These trees mean cleaner waterways and air, improved drinking water, reduced soil erosion and more vital habitat for wildlife, to name just a few benefits — not to mention making any area more beautiful.
More Than Just Trees
However, American Forests does more than just plant trees. American Forests' goal is "to inspire and advance the conservation of forests by protecting and restoring forest ecosystems, promoting and expanding urban forests and advancing the understanding of the importance of forests."
American Forests also works in and advocates for state and national forests, the greening of urban areas and informs policymakers about the ecological, health and economic benefits of having more trees.
Here's How to Help
Buy a Christmas tree at your local Whole Foods Market, and a new tree will be planted. Or help plant more trees by donating to American Forests.
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March 12, 2013, posted by Crumbs.
I was scrolling through my Instagram feed the other day, and I stumbled onto Randy Blythe's page. It'd been a while since I last visited his page (sometimes I disconnect from all social media for a week or two just to get away from it all) so I checked it out and MAN! He has a REALLY good page!! If you didn't already know, Randy became an amateur photographer when he went sober; I'm assuming to keep his mind occupied. I remember he started taking photos of us around 2011 and he's good, he knows "what" to shoot and how to "frame it."
He's always been an inspired writer, great lyricist, and just a really all-around smart dude. But, the writing he's put up alongside the Instagram pictures while he was in Prague awaiting his trial... it's truly some of the most emotionally honest and raw writings I've come across in forever. It was so painful, almost uncomfortable to read. The rollercoaster of emotions he's been on, it's powerful stuff, everyone should read this.
From Randy:
"Earlier today I walked across the Legion Bridge to see the Memorial to the Victims of Communism. It is a series of male statues going up a forested hill, each statue appearing to dissolve a bit more until only a single foot is left. It's an amazing memorial. I climbed up the stairs and looked back towards the Vltava River and Staré Mesto ("Old Town" in Czech). This shot pretty much shows how I've been feeling for a whole now-torn in half, stuck in between two worlds, neither here nor there, waiting and watching for an answer to come, so that I can move forward again as a whole man. What direction I will move in, I do not know yet. Regardless, I am ready for the waiting to be over. I will move forward no matter what, and I will not be split in two anymore, no matter where I wind up. This is frustrating for me, but I am slowly learning to be a patient man. Life just happens. Deal with it."
One of the last photos he put up, he spoke about how's he's been writing a "gratitude list." Basically a list of things he's "grateful" for. It reminded me that Genevra and I had once discussed doing this. We had gone to some classes to help us with patience when it came to the realities of raising kids. We were going through a rough time, it is the best-est-toughest job you'll ever have, and with both of us having come from dysfunctional families, we felt it would be a good idea to seek advice, learn some coping and additional parenting skills. They were great, very helpful, and one of the things they spoke about was the 'gratitude list'. To make a simple list of all the things you're grateful for.
"Big" things: Your kids health, awesome job at factory, tons of money, nice car, great sex...
To the "smallest": Healthy food, a heater that works in your house, at least one true friend...
Genevra and I had discussed doing this, but we never got around to making our lists, life just works like that sometimes.
I'm gonna make my first "gratitude list" tomorrow; I think I need that in my life right now. Inspired, in part, by "witnessing" Randy's ordeal/journey through Instagram and also in the fact that I've been "on the wagon" for over 70 days now. Although I have "come up a bit short" at times, it's something that has been working for me during this really stressful past couple of weeks, months.
I've realized that I think about having a drink everyday. I'll think to myself, "it's just to escape for a bit", but the truth is, I want to drink and I want to escape it all, all the time lately. It's crazy to me how much I think about it. Maybe I'll get to a place where I can control it again and have a few drinks and a little fun. But, maybe, I'll never be able to control it again and have to accept the fact I'm better off without it. Who knows??! I don't.
…But either way, there's always something to be grateful for.
What are you grateful for?
Randy's Instagram: http://instagram.com/drandallblythe
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Some Perspective on the Trump and Kim Jong Un Summit
The recent Singapore summit between president Trump and Kim Jong Un may not yield any substantive results or resolve any pressing issues; it may simple resort to the bellicose status quo, but it also may be an important first and bold step toward rapprochement, in much the same way that relations with China were initiated and over time, major hostilities subsided, in both word and deed.
North Korea has a history of deceit and duplicity in its agreements with the United States for promises to abate nuclear weapons development in exchange for foodstuffs. Pessimism is not unwarranted.
The Economist snootily calls the summit, "a triumph of showbiz over substance." They further intone that the U.S., "must be tough-minded and eagle-eyed." I'm not sure what The Economist said about Barack Obama's decision to kick the can down the road when North Korea was on the cusp of producing missiles that could hit the United States. Obama also was stridently opposed to a missile defense technology. One wonders was this an example of the application of Europe's and Obama's preference for "soft power"?
Remember that when Nixon sent Kissinger to China, the expectations were rather low in terms of having an effect on tempering Communist ideology leveled at the "running-dog capitalists" and "imperialist stooges" — terms that were used continuously throughout the Cold War to describe the "paper tiger" America.
Nixon had an historic meeting with Mao Tse Tong and Chou en Lai — both audacious moments in diplomacy; he was the first American president to set foot on Chinese soil. The supreme irony is that Nixon was a die-hard anti-communist, a fact that was no secret to the Chinese. For those acerbic Trump critics, a history lesson is in order. The first concrete diplomatic step taken after Nixon met with Chinese leaders was a ping-pong match between the top United States team and their Chinese counterparts. At the time, this sporting event was a big deal. The whole world was watching. After the ping pong match other activities were scheduled; with each step the gap between the two countries narrowed.
The fact that China was still a communist country ideologically at odds with the United States was immaterial. As Nixon said at the time, "You can't ignore a country of one billion people.
What is lost on those who have been critical, nay openly hostile, to Trump's approach is that Nixon was the least likely politician to go to China. During the 1950's and 60's, he was a stout anti-Communist and adopted a hard line on communist aggression; he firmly believed in the domino theory.
Thus, "Nixon goes to China" was a phrase coined at the time and that signified a bold and wholly unexpected reversal of one's long-held beliefs or policies.
Trump has taken a similar approach, dialing down the pugnacious rhetoric and taking a risk on a summit with a leader who has missiles that can incinerate cities on the West Coast.
For those anti-trump Bush Republican critics, a question: exactly what did either Bush do to insure that North Korea did not obtain offensive nuclear capabilities? What effective policy did any Republican president implement to thwart and parry North Koreas rapacious foreign policy?
I think the answer is they all did a splendid job following the kick-the-can-down the-road policy, later bequeathed to Obama.
And these establishment Republicans are attacking Trump?


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Superstar Shah Rukh Khan has made cricketer Virat Kohli acknowledge his relationship with actress Anushka Sharma.
SRK managed a feat of sorts as he made Kohli come on stage and, in a way, declare his love for the "Bombay Velvet" actress.
In the recently held Indian Premiere League (IPL) 7 opening party in Dubai, Khan once again became the witty host as he called on star cricketers like Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Shane Watson and others onstage to share some laughs.
And when it was Kohli's turn, Khan targeted the cricketer's romantic link-up with Sharma. He created a 'swayamvar' of sorts for Kohli and had posters of several leading Bollywood ladies brought up on stage. Kohli was made to choose among the posters, and quite evidently he went on to pick Sharma as his perfect bride. The actor went further and made Kohli wear the actress' poster on his neck.
Kohli choosing Sharma uninhibitedly in public is a clear indication that the cricketer is ready to declare his relationship with the actress to the media.
However, it remains to be seen whether Sharma would agree to Kohli's idea of going public, especially since she had refused to address the link-up with the cricketer during her appearance on "Koffee with Karan" this season.
Confirmed or not, the Sharma-Kolhi romance has been all over the news as the duo was spotted together in several locations in recent times.
The couple, who had celebrated the New Year together at Sharma's residence in Mumbai, was seen strolling on the streets of Auckland, earlier this year, when the cricketer was there during India's tour of New Zealand. Later, Kohli had followed Sharma to Sri Lanka during the shoot of "Bombay Velvet ", and recently to Jodhpur, where his lady love is shooting for "NH 10".
(Ed: VP)