text:
10 major challenges for content marketers
This popular strategic approach can generate many enduring benefits for your organization. There's more to it, though, than simply cranking out and publishing a few blog posts.
Research shows many businesses don't have a content strategy and, not surprisingly, aren't seeing results. Getting the most from content initiatives involves a shift both in the way marketers operate and how they serve and support sales teams, and they face many challenges along the way.
Let's examine the state of content marketing today and the major challenges we face.
Many B2B companies jump on the content bandwagon without any substantial strategy—much like their approach to social media—and wonder why they aren't getting any ROI.
Think that's a stretch? Think again. A recent survey by the Content Marketing Institute found that 88 percent of B2B marketers use content as part of their marketing campaigns, yet only 32 percent have a strategy for those efforts.
Furthermore, only 6 percent of survey respondents said their content marketing initiatives were "very effective." That's dismal, but it gets worse: Data show that many marketers don't have a content strategy and that what efforts they are making aren't delivering results.
Fifty-five percent of B2B marketers, though, said they don't even know what a successful content marketing program would look like within their organization. If there is no goal, how can you strive to reach it?
There's clearly a disparity between what marketers want from their content initiatives and what they're getting. All hope is not lost, though—the first step in finding a solution to any problem is to fully understand the underlying challenges.
Let's look at what's routinely plaguing content marketers in their quests for success:
1. Mapping. To get the most traction from a piece of content and provide the most value to your customer, it's best to map your content to a particular stage of the buyer's journey. What's relevant to consumers when they're in the awareness phase, for example, won't be as helpful when it comes time for them to make a buying decision. Many organizations have trouble mastering this concept.
2. Tone. Knowing how to develop content in different iterations to support the buying journey can be a struggle. The marketers' inclination (and the sales team's as well) is often to sell, sell, sell. My thought on that is barf, barf, barf. Trust me, your customers feel the same way. They know when they're being sold to, and they aren't interested in being inundated with BS marketing messages. They want information. They want resources. They want to learn everything they need to know before they have to sit through your demo or sales pitch. If every piece of content you produce is a thinly veiled marketing piece, you're not going to get very far.
RELATED: Tell better brand stories on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and your blog.
3. Measurement. Measuring the success of your content marketing is crucial to establishing the business case for further investment, but exactly how to do that isn't always obvious. Many marketers need help when it comes to the tools and systems they'll need in order to quantify the efficacy of their content initiatives.
4. Patience. Good content marketing takes time (just like networking, relationship building, etc.), but that's hard for many marketers to swallow. There's often a desire to establish authority with content, but you can't expect it to happen overnight. Reputations don't get built overnight, and networks don't magically appear. That is all stuff that you have to commit a budget and resources to, work on and earn. This gap between perception and reality of the process can lead to frustration. Marketers have to allow time to get buy-in from senior leaders, too, so they can start putting them out front with bylined content and a social media presence—all steps that help to build trust and credibility in niche markets.
5. Credibility. Yes, executives must develop and maintain credibility in their industry by publishing smart, authoritative content under their bylines. This trustworthiness, however, isn't reserved for the executive suite. That same credibility must support blog content written by other members of the content team.
6. Budgeting. This is a challenge for marketers—especially those looking to find ROI on content that may or may not be effective (or that they don't know how to measure).
7. Personnel. Internal conflicts can arise when content initiatives aren't well planned. Marketers should remember that not everyone with a keyboard can write for the web and that unilaterally soliciting content is a quantity-over-quality approach that will fail. Also, executives shouldn't be expected to contribute to the corporate blog at the expense of doing their jobs. For example, no one is going to put writing a blog post ahead of serving a customer or completing another billable project; that is where outsourcing your writing can deliver big value.
8. Approvals. All too often, blogging gets tied up in approval processes. When content has to go through too many channels and get past too many eyeballs, progress can slow. When your legal team is driving the train, expect even more delays. Learn to trust your marketing and content teams on this front. Chances are good that they'll deliver.
9. Distribution. Writing great content is relatively easy; getting anyone to read it is the difficult part. That's where many content marketing initiatives fail, as far too many marketers overlook the distribution step. A legitimate presence on social media and ongoing online community building and engagement come into play. This is also where strong networks, great relationships, internal advocates and influential friends can make or break your content operations.
10. Commitment. Succeeding with content marketing takes a commitment to an evolving set of rules. Writing teams have a lot on their plates—understanding the nuances of SEO, writing effectively for the web, adapting tone to different personas, understanding what content works for each part of the customer journey and knowing how to create that. In short, conceiving, developing and distributing the right content in the right channels, along with knowing how to evaluate and measure the efficacy of that content, takes a grand investment by your organization.
Successful content marketing requires commitment to a shift in how you serve your customers, how you develop and use your resources, and how you measure success. If you do it well, the payoff can be huge. Getting around those initial challenges, however, can be difficult. When you do it right, content marketing delivers—for you and for your customers and prospects.
What solutions can you offer to the challenges listed above? Any problems you've had that we've left off this list? Please contribute your thoughts in the comments section.
A version of this post first appeared on V3B's blog.
Ragan.com Daily Headlines
Sign up to receive the latest articles from Ragan.com directly in your inbox.


text:
Carillon Assisted Living
of Fayetteville
Carillon Assisted Living of Fayetteville located in Fayetteville, North Carolina offers area seniors an unparalleled living experience. The caring and dedicated team members provide the care and support residents need to age gracefully and live fully.
Carillon Provides the Best Accommodations and Amenities
The community offers spacious accommodations, with fully furnished rooms, or residents can feel free to bring their own furnishing and decorate their home as they please. It also provides numerous beautifully decorated common areas, like the formal dining room, the Country Kitchen, and the Southern style porches complete with rocking chairs perfect for a peaceful afternoon. All this comes in a beautiful building on meticulously maintained grounds. Carillon Assisted Living of Fayetteville also provides residents an unmatched dining program that serves meals that are both nutritious and delicious. Families often dine with us in our dining room that is both formal and inviting.
Engaging Activities
Fun, creative, inspiring – when it comes to activities, residents of Carillon Assisted Living of Fayetteville are never at a loss for something to do. The community van is always on the go, to local museums and area shopping malls to cultural and patriotic events sponsored by community groups at nearby Fort Bragg. Additionally, there are a variety of Signature Carillon events like Jazz and Juleps and A Carillon Victorian Christmas Concert hosted by the community that invite the people of Fayetteville and surrounding areas like Spring Lake and Hope Mills, North Carolina to come together and raise money for some wonderful and deserving organizations. In addition to remaining active, the team at Carillon Assisted Living of Fayetteville strives to keep residents connected to the greater Fayetteville community, and giving back is a pillar to all Carillon communities across the state. The team is consistently an integral part of the Alzheimer's Association Walk that happens annually in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
The Garden Place – Highly Regarded Memory Care
Carillon Assisted Living of Fayetteville is also home to North Carolina's highly revered Memory Care Program, The Garden Place. We offer a safe and secure wing that has its own secure patio and dining area in which seniors needing Memory Care can live fully. Our philosophy is to meet residents where they are, while still respecting who they are and helping to maintain their dignity. The team that serves in The Garden Place is trained, caring and compassionate. The Garden Place also offers a variety of spiritual, physical and mental activities to keep seniors engaged.
Ready to experience all that Carillon Assisted Living of Fayetteville has to offer? Call the community at 910-764-2020, schedule a tour through our convenient online scheduling tool, or come to the community, and one of our wonderful team members will be happy to provide a tour.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
In just six issues, the ongoing "X-Men '92" series has covered a lot of ground. The team's seen new members like Psylocke and Bishop join, taken in a whole student body of heroes in training, fought villains ranging from Dracula to Alpha Red -- and served as security for the rock festival Lilapalooza. But even with so many big moments in the rearview mirror, there are curves and warning signs ahead -- because there's one big, blue ancient mutant angling for a comeback.
This week in X-POSITION, "X-Men '92" writers Chad Bowers and Chris Sims answer your questions about everything from Apocalypse's arrival to the X-Men of 2099 and more.
CBR News: Welcome back to X-POSITION, Chad and Chris! We'll start this week with a Q from Pedro.
Hi guys, got a question about the X-Men 2099 (maybe 2092) that we saw in the Scott/Jean issue. Are they the original X-Men 2099 or an alternate version? And when are we going to go back to them? I recently read the old "X-Men 2099" series, so seeing them in your book was pretty exciting.
Chris Sims: Well, the complicated answer is that they're from the 2099 of the '92niverse, but I think that's probably close enough that you can consider them the same bunch that you read about in those comics. As for seeing them again, we'll definitely be catching up with them at some point, and you won't even have to wait another 83 years for it!
Chad Bowers: Glad you enjoyed their appearance, Pedro. I can honestly say, we were both shocked with the enormous fan reaction to seeing the 2099 X-Men again (I'm looking at you, Brett). As a kid, I always enjoyed the 2099 line, but those books don't get talked about a lot or tapped creatively, so it was a great surprise to find out we weren't the only ones missing those guys.
Okay, yep, their cameo in "X-Men '92" #5 led me to write a whole big thing about them and their history. And also reread the series. I could keep going, but I'll throw to a few questions from Emily instead!
I know it's going to be a good month when there's a new "X-Men '92" to look forward to! I have a question regarding your guest stars. Did the Flaming Lips and/or the Toadies have any input on how they are portrayed in the comics? Did they give you guys any requests or restrictions, or were you both given free rein?
Sims: I'm pretty sure our only instruction came from the Lips' manager, Scott Booker, who said he also wanted to make an appearance, which is coming soon in #7. Other than that, we were pretty much allowed to do whatever we wanted, which was a really cool experience!
RELATED: Future Shock: Explore The Past and Present of the X-Men 2099
Also will Dazzler be featured? We got to see her fan club, so will she be part of Lilapalooza?
Sims: She's on the bill, but unfortunately, the rest of the concert got canceled before she could go on. That's what happens when your headliner disappears in the middle of a show!
Now here are a couple questions from MarvelMaster616.
Can you tell us a bit more about this secret cabal of mutants who have been conspiring against the X-Men since Alpha Red? When will we learn about their full agenda?
Bowers: The Upstarts. They're a ruthless group of rich and powerful young mutants brought together by the mysterious Gamesmaster who's challenged them to destroy the X-Men. Their membership consists of Fabian Cortez, Shinobi Shaw, Trevor Fitzroy, and the Fenris Twins, Andrea and Andreas Von Strucker. They're each utterly despicable in their own way -- the antithesis of what it means to be an X-Man -- and they're hungry to find out who the Gamesmaster's working for, and win the ultimate prize… despite not really knowing what the prize is. The sad truth is, they'd all probably be trying to kill the X-Men anyway. All the Gamesmaster's done is just turn it into a competition.
You can also read more about the Upstarts and their debut back in 1991 in our big ol' Hellfire Club history lesson. Back to MarvelMaster616's questions...
In the old cartoon, Jubilee's role was limited due to her age and inexperience. Now that Jubilee has a lot of other mutants her own age at the mansion, what will her role be moving forward?
Sims: Jubilee is in a really interesting position in our book. The two things that we did at the end of the miniseries were to have the X-Men re-open the school -- something that allowed us to bring in the Generation X and X-Statix characters -- but also we made sure to include that they were promoting Jubilee to full X-Man status. The thing is, she's still young, so with the new teenage characters showing up -- like Chamber, Monet, and even Dead Girl -- those are the people that she's connecting with and forming friendships with. That makes her the sort of bridge between the two casts, connecting everything to a whole. You're not going to see her in any of the classes because she's already earned her spot on the team, but you're definitely going to see her hanging out with the other teenagers -- and maybe getting involved in a love triangle or two.
Speaking of all the new cast members, Rachel has a question about your take on the X-Men.
Since you're writing versions of the characters that are sent in the '92niverse, is there potential for them to grow and change in unexpected ways? Are there any X-Men right now that you're writing that you feel growing in a different direction than their 616 counterpart?
Bowers: Mixing in the Gen X kids with the pre-X-Statix cast opens a lot of doors for us to explore some different outcomes, sure. Dead Girl and Chamber seem to be hitting it off, and I can't recall them ever having a scene together prior to "'92." And we'd be remiss if we didn't mention Doop's hair.
But all kidding aside, there's some things coming up that we can only do in "'92" and with the cast we've put together. Already, our team is a team that never existed in the core universe, and that's just naturally changed the dynamic quite a bit. Bishop and Psylocke are maybe our two most changed X-Men, as their histories already differ quite a bit coming out of the mini-series. Neither have ever been an X-Man before, so we not only get to see them figuring things out in a way we never have before, but they also share an interpersonal connection we've never seen them have before, and that's going to continue to grow over the course of the next couple issues.
Sims: We've gotten a lot of questions about Cable, too, after we revealed his all-new (or at least all-'92) origin story in #5. That one was really fun for us to put together, just throwing in all the weird future stuff that we could think of in the far off year of 3992. Clearly, "our" Cable -- the guy who shows up in the miniseries leading X-Force and may just be coming back pretty soon - is a little bit different than the main-universe version. But don't worry, he still has a metal arm, a glowing eye, and a truly gigantic laser gun.
Those are all of Cable's key ingredients, to be sure. Next up is a question from NewMutant about one super '90s mutant: Morph.
Morph is a defining element of '90s and the animated series. As the book is heavily rooted in that series, and obviously that era, will we see a comic version of Morph hit "X-Men '92"?
Sims: Morph, huh? Doesn't ring a bell… You sure you're not thinking of Mystique?
Bowers: Must be what they meant. Probably just a typo.
It is easy to confuse shape-shifters -- that's what their powers are for. Anyway, here's a question from Jeanpaul123.
Will the deal that Dead Girl made with the Darkhold Dwarf be relevant in the future?
Sims: Oh yeah.
Bowers: It's important to think of reality as one big cosmic game of Jenga. Removing the wrong piece can bring the whole thing down.
RELATED: X-POSITION: "X-Men '92's" Bowers & Sims Cut Loose in the Fast-Paced '92niverse
Next up, MiddlePegasus wants to know if you'll explore a specific '90s trope.
One of the things I loved most about the '90s X-comics were the quiet issues, the ones where you just saw the team talk to each other and spend time together. So far the series has been packed with awesome action, but I wonder if there are there any plans to unwind for an issue like in the good old days?
Bowers: Y'know, this is a great question. I loved those issues myself, and really would love to do something along the lines of a Gambit and Rogue date night story, or kind of "A Day in the Life of Professor Henry McCoy" issue, but here's the thing… Fabian Nicieza and Scott Lobdell already did those stories in the 90s, and as good as me and Chris are, our version of those stories will never top what you read back in the day.
"X-Men '92" is such a strange animal, in that it's main cast is already so well defined that it's difficult to work in something new or around what's already in place. The whole point of and the charm of our book is that our X-Men are kind of the idealized and most fondly remembered versions of the X-Men (and before you dive into the comments, I realize that's not the case for everyone, but it's the conceit of our book, so work with us here…), and so often the purpose of those issues was to allow us a glimpse at a side of the X-Men we don't typically get to see. But Chris and I want you guys to see everything in our book, so we've chosen to try our best and work in those little character moments with these huge, over-the-top Saturday morning cartoon-inspired narratives that, as you might have noticed, don't leave a whole lot of time for the X-Men to even breath -- let alone take in a movie or celebrate a holiday! Hopefully we get a little bit of what you're looking for in some of the upcoming issues.
Sims: Chad mentioned doing a "Date Night" issue, and I think we'd both really love to do that with all the romantic pairings that we've been setting up in the story. I mean, we've seen Jubilee and Chamber's first date already, but that didn't really go so well. But at the same time, we want this book to be action first and foremost, and to keep things moving as fast as we can. If you look at that first arc, you can see how we were trying to keep things moving from Omega Red to Alpha Red to Dracula and then into the Darkhold in the span of a single story. As much as we'd like to do something quiet -- and we really would, because Monet and Jubilee hanging out together has been the most fun thing to write -- we really want to make sure we get all that adventure and excitement out there first.
So I assume fans need to petition Marvel for a "Jubilee & M" limited series from you guys? That's what I'm picking up. Next, Garry wants to know about how you balance the book's tone.
I love how this book balances humor and action, and also some serious moments too. As the book goes on, do you see it moving in one tone direction over another? Or are you striving to maintain a humor/drama balance?
Bowers: When we got the greenlight for the ongoing series, we certainly had a long talk about what we wanted for the project and where we saw it going, but tone was never a big topic of conversation. I know writers say this all the time, but we honestly just write the kind of book we'd like to read, and hope it works. And in the end, let's face it -- the other X-books do such a good job of telling stories with a slightly darker and more contemporary tone, if we'd done the same kind of stories, just with different costumes, it would've been real easy to get lost in the mix. When we were first hired for this book, it was little more than a name, and we've been extremely lucky in that we've been allowed by Marvel to essentially do whatever want to do with a comic that could've very easily just been a one-note rehash of a bunch of X-Men/Magneto fights. But instead, we chose to make it a celebration of everything we love about that era of X-Men comics! A 20-page X-Men party every month!
Sims: I think our primary goal when we're writing is to make a book that's fun to read -- fun for us, fun for you, and fun for Alti [Firmansyah] (and Cory [Hamscher]!) to draw. Every time we send in a script and hear that she can't wait to draw a certain scene, or that the editors can't wait to see what it looks like when it's done, it really feels like we're on track with something that readers are going to respond to.
The comedy, I think, is a big part of it -- especially because those books from the '90s that inspired the series are quippy as heck. You can't go two pages without Jubilee cracking a joke about Wolverine's attitude or Beast making some needlessly highbrow reference, even when they're fighting the Brood with Ghost Rider standing there. So for us, all that comes naturally, and a lot of humor comes from doing the unexpected. If we're surprising people, and if they're coming away from it with a smile, I think we're doing our job. Plus, Alti's so good at drawing expressive faces and body language that we'd be fools if we didn't want to take advantage of it. A ton of the humor in the book comes purely from the way she nails everyone's reactions.
And we'll close out this week with a question from jawbreaker about what's coming up.
My question is, with Apocalypse coming to the book soon, will we see a '92 version of Clan Akkaba? Also will Chamber and Blink have any distant relation to Apocalypse like they do in the regular continuity (which unfortunately has done very little/almost nothing with that plot point)?
Sims: I don't know if we're getting into all of that, but I can tell you that when Apocalypse comes back, it's going to be in way that I don't think we've ever seen before. The hints of what he's been doing that you've seen at the end of the miniseries, or even that we mentioned through the Askani in #5, are all going to come together in a way that's hopefully going to be a surprising new take on him that still rings true with what people expect from the all-out action of the '90s.
Bowers: Exactly. I wouldn't be too surprised if we see a lot of "Apocalypse Was Right" t-shirts next year.
Special thanks to Chad Bowers and Chris Sims for taking part in this week's X-POSITION!
Keep checking CBR for more information on the next installment of X-POSITION!


text:
Pat RabbitteCeist:
1 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Taoiseach the progress made to date by the National Economic and Social Development Office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31079/03]Amharc ar fhreagra
Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2004
1 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Taoiseach the progress made to date by the National Economic and Social Development Office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31079/03]Amharc ar fhreagra
2 Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach the proposed work of the National Economic and Social Council during 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1021/04]Amharc ar fhreagra
3 Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach the costs which have accrued to his Department in respect of the National Centre for Partnership and Performance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1043/04]Amharc ar fhreagra
4 Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach if he will report on the recent work of the National Economic and Social Development Office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1044/04]Amharc ar fhreagra
5 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Taoiseach if he will report on the work of the National Centre for Partnership and Performance. [1576/04]Amharc ar fhreagra
6 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Taoiseach if he will report on the work of the National Economic and Social Development Office. [1577/04]Amharc ar fhreagra
7 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Taoiseach if he will report on the recent work of the National Economic and Social Development Office. [1843/04]Amharc ar fhreagra
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 to 7, inclusive, together.
The National Economic and Social Development Office, NESDO, comprises the National Economic and Social Council, NESC, the National Economic and Social Forum, NESF, and the National Centre for Partnership and Performance, NCPP. Legislation underpinning the establishment of NESDO has completed Second Stage in the Dáil and, when enacted, will place the three bodies on a statutory basis as part of the office.
The primary role of NESDO is to add value to the work of its constituent bodies by creating the conditions under which synergies can be released, joint projects pursued and the potential for duplication minimised. The office promotes the development of a shared vision for realising these goals and encouraging the constituent bodies to maximise their efforts through collaborative policy development initiatives.
Over the past year, NESDO has overseen the provision of new accommodation for its constituent bodies in Parnell Square. All the staff of these bodies are for the first time located in one building. Not only does this facilitate the sharing by the three bodies of administrative costs and overheads, but also the sharing of knowledge and ideas and the devising of complementary work programmes. This was particularly evident during the preparation of work on the recent NESC report, An Investment in Quality: Services, Inclusion and Enterprise — No. 110. Both the NESF and NCPP had a considerable input into the drafting of the report. Another example of this type of co-operation between the constituent bodies was evident over the past two months when the NCPP linked with the NESC and NESF in developing teams for each of the panels on the Forum on the Workplace of the Future.
NESDO has also produced its policies and procedures statement, which defines the functions and responsibilities of NESDO regarding its constituent bodies, outlines its financial and human resources policies and procedures as well as its customer service principles. The statement is currently being circulated to all staff for their observations before formal adoption by the board of NESDO.
On the NCPP specifically, the centre was established to bring about change and improved performance in both the private and public sectors, through partnership in the workplace. It is doing this firstly by developing models of good practice in the area of partnership and improved performance. Examples of the centre's work under this heading include: the publication of case studies of good practice in the private sector, which will be followed shortly by the publication of similar studies in the Civil Service; a conference last November on best practice in the area of information and consultation within organisations, which, again, will be followed by the publication of case studies covering both the public and private sectors; and ongoing work on the development of guidelines on innovative forms of employee financial involvement.
A second strand of the centre's work is the development of practical supports for those involved in managing change through partnership. Examples of the centre's work in this area include: the preparation, in association with IBEC and ICTU, of two training modules on developing partnership and on joint problem solving, for publication later this month; the development and promotion of a competency framework identifying the behaviours, attitudes and skills necessary for the effective management of change through partnership; and the establishment of an interactive facility on the centre's website designed to educate and inform those interested in improving performance through partnership.
As a third strand of its work, the centre is in the business of promoting partnership and performance. Activities in this area include: the recent publication of a major review of the international experience of partnership, highlighting its value as a positive force for change; and the centre's ongoing work both with its Strategic Alliance Network, consisting of Departments and agencies concerned with workplace issues and with the Research Advisory Panel, which is a national network of leading Irish researchers in relevant disciplines.
The fourth strand of the centre's work is to further develop our overall thinking on how workplaces can best adapt to competitive pressures, improve the delivery of services, and respond to the changing needs of employees. It is doing this through the recently established Forum on the Workplace of the Future, which the centre both services and oversees. The forum is the main focus of the centre's work at present. Its opening plenary session was held in Dublin Castle on 6 and 7 October and four expert panels which were established to support it have held a number of meetings, most recently on 9 December. The forum and panels are to meet next week on 5 and 6 February and the forum is scheduled to report this autumn.
To assist in the work of the forum, a consultation paper was published in July and a major survey was commissioned on employer and employee attitudes and experiences. The paper and preliminary survey results are available on the centre's website, together with the centre's other publications. Over the next few months, the centre will publish the key themes and trends from the survey. The costs which have accrued to my Department since the centre's establishment in 2001 to date are just over €2.26 million.
On the NESC, Deputies will be aware that a new council has recently been appointed by Government, and it will continue the work on housing policy begun by the previous council. In the coming months the council will determine the remainder of its work programme for 2004, which will be done in co-operation with the two other bodies, namely, the NESF and the NCPP.
During the Irish Presidency of the European Union, NESC and the European Economic and Social Committee, EESC, are jointly organising a conference entitled, Public Services: The Role of Civil Dialogue in Provision of Quality Economic and Social Services. The conference will take place in Dublin Castle on 6 and 7 April. The conference is motivated by two challenges facing the provision of economic and social services in the European Union: the challenge of internationalisation, arising from European integration and globalisation; and the challenge of complexity, arising from the need for high-quality services tailored to citizens' needs and provided from constrained public revenues. The purpose of the conference is to consider the role of the economic and social councils, the social partners and the other components of organised civil society in addressing these challenges.
I am grateful to the Taoiseach for the long answer and I promise I will not put this question down again for at least six months. The Taoiseach will not have to read any script during his time as President that will beat that. I hope he knows what it means because I do not. The Taoiseach told us, "The primary role of NESDO is to add value to the work of its constituent bodies by creating the conditions under which synergies can be released." Can the Taoiseach give us an idea what that means? For example, would it apply in the case of Aer Rianta or Dublin Bus? Would there not be a role for all this partnership, cohabitation and assistance in those companies? Sometimes one gets the impression that the Minister for Transport, Deputy Brennan, gives the same amount of thought to policy initiatives in transport areas——
A question, please, Deputy.
——as Britney Spears does to marriage. The Ceann Comhairle should time his interventions more appropriately. Believe it or not, this is absolutely pertinent to the question. What is the practical application of all this bureaucratic gibberish that we listened to for the first 11 minutes of Question Time?
I hope Deputy Rabbitte is not saying that the three organisations that make up NESDO are involved in bureaucratic nonsense. They all play an extremely useful role — I will not remind him who runs the three organisations.
I would not write that answer.
They do extremely good work that is clearly focused on what they are endeavouring to do, to organise best practice and disseminate best knowledge on how good partnership, change and adaptation to change works across the public and private sectors. All the work NESDO does helps to improve both industrial relations and change management, and is relevant to all organisations because all organisations are involved. NESC works on the strategic analysis of what we do in much of our public policy, NESF works on the social dimensions and the NCPP works on deriving best practice, based on research in other countries and case studies in Irish industry. All three function well together with a small number of staff to assist the public and private sectors. I know Deputy Rabbitte does not mean it, but they do an extremely good job. If there are faults in the system, no one in the three organisations can be blamed for them. I gave a long answer because they have been criticised in reports about what they have been doing recently and those involved are anxious that we show the good work they are doing.
Returning to the practical application in the sundered industrial relations in Aer Rianta and the unilateral imposition of change management in various areas of the public sector, I am at a loss to understand how the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell, and the Minister for Transport, Deputy Brennan, are in keeping with the long answer the Taoiseach read out. They seem to believe in the unilateral imposition of change.
Will the Taoiseach clarify the purpose of the NESDO umbrella? He published with great fanfare recently a "less red tape" document on regulation. The fanfare and trumpets were to signal the message that red tape was being cut back. How is this cutting back on red tape? Is the NESC still going to exist, quite distinctively and separately? Are the NESF and NCPP going to remain in separate existence? Is there any amalgamation of staff? Is the number of staff employed under the single organisation less than the number employed under the three? Do the three continue to have a separate existence? What is the point of NESDO? We are trying to establish the practical application in terms of this initiative and how it is in keeping with the Taoiseach's stated commitment to the minimisation of red tape.
It is saving money. The NESC has seven people, the NESF has six and the NCPP has nine. One person has a dual role in NESDO. The director of the NESC is included in both sets of figures. He is also chief executive officer of NESDO, so that is essentially the co-ordinating body for administrative purposes. There is a saving. The budget for 2003 was less than 2002, so not only have efficiencies been achieved from the fact that the three bodies are in the one place, but money has been saved in real terms. The figure saved is 8%. This year their Estimate will be increased because they received an allocation for their major project — into which they have put enormous effort — the Forum for the Workplace of the Future. They have generated a vast amount of interest in that regard across the public and private sectors. Members of Deputy Rabbitte's party were at the launch of one aspect of the project earlier last year and again in October.
The priority of NESDO for the coming year is to promote the complementary programmes of research analysis and discussion by the three organisations that are already there. NESC has been in existence for about 30 years and the NESF for about 12 years. The NCPP is a more recent organisation. They will continue to provide shared administration and support services for the three bodies to obtain the best value for money. Each is a small organisation. I have given the number as 24 for the three bodies. They are giving value for money and making a contribution to those who engage with them, because there is a cross-over between the social and reporting objectives as carried out by the NESDO. The fact that they are working together and co-ordinating is good. All of the social partners and others who deal with them believe this is an effective process and it was widely welcomed in the House when the Bill was introduced.
Will the Taoiseach outline the case studies to be published this year to which he referred? Following Deputy Rabbitte's question on the practical implementation of the verbiage surrounding these bodies, the National Centre for Partnership and Performance was established to support and drive change in the Irish workplace. That was designed to enable public and private partnerships to respond to change, to build capability and to improve performance. In the case referred to, it seems as if the Minister for Transport, in sending a detailed letter to the president of SIPTU, has taken unto himself all change and all partnership. In respect of the practical implementation as regards the consumer, the customer and the ordinary person, how does the Taoiseach see these bodies being able to do the job for which they were set up when Ministers send letters of comfort or letters of assumption of job stability, thereby creating confusion and conflict within workers in various semi-State bodies? Is the Taoiseach happy that the remit of the bodies referred to is working in terms of practical results and consequences for the average person on the street?
I do. The three organisations, two of which have been in existence for a long time, are fulfilling their roles. NESC has been compiling reports for almost 30 years but that does not mean everybody has always agreed with them. The NESF has been doing a good job and there has been active participation by Members of this House in its work for the past 12 years. The National Centre for Partnership and Performance is highlighting best practice. There has been enormous change and many issues have been resolved through their advice and work. There will always be difficulties. These organisations are not in the business of changing the entire industrial relations structure but they can significantly help in the efforts towards change. I could outline numerous reports and work undertaken by these organisations but I do not think that is necessary because Members are aware of them. Many of the publications issued by them illustrate the work they are doing.
These organisations are modernising our workplaces, delivering more competitive and social visions and achieving higher performance in partnership works in the public service. They have provided effective learning and training programmes through the Civil Service conference and are involved in a great deal of work involving management, employers and unions. All those involved in the three organisations are fulfilling their roles and doing good work. Since the organisations came together the executive chairperson has done an excellent job and is highly thought of by employers and workers.
It is with some regret that I ask the Taoiseach if he agrees that the National Centre for Partnership and Performance is but an expensive talking shop? Is it not the case that this is a departmental quango that justifies itself through the publication of occasional bulletins and through creating meetings for the sake of creating meetings? What product does the centre produce; what is the outcome of its work?
The Department of the Taoiseach suggests the centre has an important role to play in supporting and facilitating organisational change based on partnership in the public and private sectors. We are told the overall aim is to improve performance and to provide better public services and so on. Would the Taoiseach not agree that in this the 21st century, all these objectives could be achieved through two important and simple measures: the recognition of the right of employees to trade union membership; and the requirement on employers to recognise trade unions as the negotiating team of workers for workers' interests? These are the critical changes needed. Will the Taoiseach accept that it is outrageous that workers' rights in terms of trade union membership and the recognition of trade unions——
The Deputy is wandering from the questions submitted.
No, I am not. This is a substantive area which this body has been established to address.
The Deputy is wandering from the substance of the questions.
Sadly, I wish that were the case, but it is not. I am dealing with what is at the core of this matter. Looking ahead, are these the workplaces of the future where workers' rights are not recognised and the right of trade unions to represent employees is denied?
The National Economic and Social Forum, which is now part of the NESDO, produced a very damning report in 2002 on equity of access to hospital care. I wish to ask the Taoiseach about the outcome of the work of the NESF and the NESDO. The report made a strong case for the evaluation of the waiting list initiative. What has been done, for example, in regard to that recommendation, given that it is now January 2004?
The Deputy should submit his question to the Minister for Health and Children.
The collective aim of my question is to stir some attention and interest in all this. These bodies are not being given the opportunity to make an effective contribution——
The Deputy is making a statement. He should allow the Taoiseach to reply.
——because the Government refuses to implement any of their recommendations. That is the core of the problem.
For about the past 30 years the NESC has prepared the reports upon which social partnership has been based for the past 17 years and has done more than anyone else to influence the key policies of successive Governments in that time. The current report addresses very effectively housing issues. Were any of the reports to be examined it would be seen that they have influenced thinking in Departments, at the Cabinet table and in society. They have driven the approach to many social, economic and environmental issues.
For the past 12 years, NESF has driven social issues such as unemployment. It was set up to deal with such issues at a time when we had the highest level of unemployment in the history of the State, approximately 360,000 people. A great many Members of the Oireachtas are involved in the organisation, therefore, it is not necessary for me to outline its work because Members are familiar with it.
The NCPP works to help the process of change, moving away from a time when everything ended up with industrial disputes and management made decisions without the involvement of workers. It has followed good case studies and carried out excellent work in recent years. The NCPP is a successor to a group which was in place for the previous six or seven years. The body has done outstanding work.
I will not do so but I could list two pages of major public and private companies with which the organisation has worked. I will list the first half dozen companies to demonstrate the extent of its involvement: Abbott plc, Allianz, Allied Irish Banks, Aughinish Alumina, Bausch and Lomb, Beaumont Hospital and Cavan County Council. The NCPP engaged with these companies to bring to the organisations best industrial relations and change practice. It is significantly involved in driving this change.
I understand why my officials supplied me with such a long reply — they felt Deputies were not aware of the purpose or value of the organisations, and that is clear now. The collective work of these organisations, the experience of the people behind them and the executive chairpersons' effort is enormous. The system is also cost-effective since the organisations were already in place and have come together with a small staff. They are not trying to solve the industrial relations problems of the entire country — other agencies are in place to do so — but to force the process of change, and they are doing so very well.
Any of the reports which the organisations have prepared, including those to which Deputy Ó Caoláin referred, will go to the relevant Departments for action.
Why then will the Government not legislate?
That happens in an effective manner.
Given that the National Economic and Social Development office incorporates the National Centre for Partnership and Performance, is the Taoiseach aware that the director of that centre said last year that there is growing evidence that involving and empowering employees through partnership builds trust and good relations? Does the Taoiseach agree that the word "partnership" for the Government is similar to the word "sustainability", rather like nylon stockings that can be stretched to fit all sizes and occasions, even to make a balaclava behind which the identity and purpose can be hidden? How does he reconcile his commitment to partnership and that of these organisations with the actions and policy of his Ministers which are directly contrary to such commitment, whether they be the bullying of prison officers by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform or the bullying of transport workers by the Minister for Transport?
In particular, what confidence can workers have in the Government in the context of what the Taoiseach states is his commitment to partnership——
These questions relate to two agencies. The Deputy should ask a supplementary question appropriate to the seven questions tabled.
What confidence can workers have in the aims of these organisations when, for example, the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources blatantly reneged on an agreement with post office workers that was signed, sealed and delivered in regard to the employee shared ownership? I must come down to the specifics because we want to hear——
Supplementary questions must be related to the questions tabled.
As long as the Taoiseach is allowed to give rambling replies and use generalities and synergies and so on which are in contrast to the policies enacted by his Ministers, we will not obtain the information we need. I have asked a valid question as to how the policies of the Government, especially that of the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources regarding post office workers, sit with what the Taoiseach stated in his opening reply?
The Deputy should table a question to the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources on that issue.
If Deputy Joe Higgins looked at the questions being discussed, he would see that I answer the questions I am asked. Good partnership arrangements, as enunciated by these agencies, should be followed. That does not mean that there will not occasionally be friction about implementing policy or trying to organise change. That is inevitable but it should be done on the best basis. Information should be exchanged and there should be proper dialogue because people should try to work out issues together. That is the Government's policy.
The Taoiseach stated that, if there are faults in the system, they do not relate to the three organisations. Those of us who see the Government as a problem agree with that statement. Is the Taoiseach teaching the National Economic and Social Council a lesson in coping with competitive pressure by reducing its funding? Is that an effort to get the council to see how far it can stretch its resources or is it a diminution of its significance and a Government message in that regard?
Regarding recommendations made by agencies such as the NESC, can the Taoiseach instance a recommendation that has been implemented and one that has not? Does he agree that the attitude of the Government to recommendations generally from the NESC is similar to the popular attitude to the Bible? Whatever measures suit thestatus quo are implemented and those that bring about equity and sustainabilty but upset a few vested interests, such as the NESC's recommendation to introduce more carbon taxes rather than labour taxes, are seen as too difficult for the Government to act on. However, given that it was an NESC recommendation, does this indicate the Government is picking and choosing and not taking the council seriously?
When Deputy Rabbitte asked if there was cost effectiveness, I answered that there was a saving of 8.3%. Combining the three organisations made a saving.
The agreements reached in all the NESC reports of the past 17 years, but especially the last five or six on social partnership, have formed the basis for the implementation of policy. The reports were, by and large, accepted almost whole in partnership discussions. That happened with the most recent agreement, Sustaining Progress. Recently, when I attended the 30th anniversary of the NESC, it was pointed out that the council had advocated the tax credit system at the same time as the Commission on Taxation did so. Many of the council's policies have been implemented.
But not carbon tax.
That has not been dealt with yet but that does not mean that there are some policies which will be dealt with in the future. They do not go away.


text:
The top league heroines are many but if you were to name that one starlet who is a complete package of striking looks, irresistible sex appeal, and high-quality performance quotient, the only name would be that of the milky white beauty Tamannaah. Now, her name is being taken for film production.
Well, Tammu's name started flashing in the posters of the movie Queen which is the remake of the Bollywood blockbuster featuring the curly haired cutie Kangana. Some doubted whether Tammu is also the producer because artist's names are not mentioned along with that of makers.
As a result, many asked the film's director Neelkanta but he said no. Meanwhile, he is making a comeback of sorts through this project and shared his thoughts like this- 'Hello everybody my films Queen starring Tamannaah in Telugu & Zamzam starring Manjima Mohan in Malayalam remakes of Hindi film Queen have been officially launched. Super excited to work on these two films and happy to make my debut in Malayalam. Looking forward to the shoot of these two films starting this month end.'
ALSO READ : Samantha-Naga Chaitanya Wedding Cost


text:
If you are new to crochet and want to have a go at this new skill here is a good place to start your amazing journey of creations – learn how to chain stitch (ch)
Creating a chain will help you to get the feel for crochet and practise the basic elements – wrapping your yarn over and pulling through. I think when you're starting you feel like it's just hard enough holding onto everything and getting good tension so this is a good way to find your groove.
So how to chain stitch? You might have created chains at school – we used to call it finger knitting – only this time you need to use your crochet hook…
(I am left handed so this one is for you fellow left-handers! But if you're right handed I hope you like my demonstration too)
To start you need to create a slip knot (or it can be called a slip stitch, or starting slip stitch). To do this you simply make a loop [1], line your yarn across the gap [2] and push through to create another loop [3] Pull on the tail end of your yarn to tighten [4].
Insert your crochet hook into this loop and pull your yarn (the end attached to your ball) until the loop is snug around your hook [5](but not toooo tight though).
Next you need to wrap your yarn around the hook from back to front [6] securing your yarn around the fingers of your right hand while simultaneously gripping your yarn tail with your thumb and middle finger. Using this grip pull the loop open and pull your hook through the hole [7-8] (I tend to hold my yarn so that it is wrapped over my little finger, under my ring finger, over my middle finger and gripped between my fingers, then held taught by my hooked index finger as in picture #8)
And that is one chain stitch worked!
From here, don't change your grip on your yarn with your right hand, but use your hook to wrap under the yarn (hook facing up) [9] and grab it, then turning the hook to face down [10] to bring through the loop [11-12].
Continue wrapping your yarn and pulling through, wrapping yarn and pulling through, until you have a loooovely long chain (or for as many stitches you need for your desired project…)
And well done if this was your first crochet stitch! The crochet abbreviation for chain stitch is ch so when you see that on your pattern you will know what to do.
If you are wondering what will be nice to do with your chains – take a look at the sweet chain stitch bracelets coming next, with instructions for the slip stitch (slst) to turn your chain into a loop. See you there!


text:
Let your loved ones blush in the colors this Sweet Splendor Gourmet Gift Hamper that brings with it as you gift it to them. Create a spark on someones day with this marvelous Gift comprising of Mozart Balls Wrapped in Fine Milk Chocolate (200 g), Dornfelder Palatinate Red German Quality Wine 12.5% vol. (0.25 cl.), Mousse Carres Pralines (130 g), Lindt Christmas Almonds (Roasted Almonds in Dark Cocoa Cream Wrapped in Chocolate) (100 g), 3 Christmas Balls Filled with Chocolate Coating (12.5 g each) and 6 Square Red Gift Box in Open Wave. This Gift Hamper also includes decorative materials such as Red Christmas Balls, Cones, Artificial Fir Green and Golden Curly Angel Hair.( Delivery Time: 2- 3 Working Days )
Delivery : This item is available for Next Day / Later Day Delivery.
For items available for Same Day Delivery : Click Here


text:
- Windows
- Internet & Network
- Browser plugins
- Google Gears
Google Gears
by Google
Download now 219 KB
3.9 on 58 votes
0/5 stars
License: Freeware
Total downloads:1,141 (2 last week)
Operating system:Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10
Latest version:0.5.3700
Download Google Gears 0.5.3700 from our software library for free. The latest installer takes up 219 KB on disk. Our built-in antivirus checked this download and rated it as 100% safe. This free software was originally designed by Google. The software is categorized as Internet & Network Tools.
From the developer:
Our mission with Gears was to enable more powerful web applications.
You may want to check out more software, such as GEAR PRO "Mastering Edition", GEAR Video or Registry Gear, which might be related to Google Gears.
You can also add comment viaFacebook
Thank you for rating the program!
Please add a comment explaining the reasoning behind your vote.
Please add a comment explaining the reasoning behind your vote.
Latest update:
Apps for Mac
GearHead Express
Latest updates
Device Assistants
Dante Virtual Soundcard
Device Assistants
Lossless Audio Converter
Editors & Converters


text:
eCite Digital Repository
DoDo game, a color vision deficiency screening test for young children
Nguyen, L-C and Do, EY-L and Chia, A and Wang, Y and Duh, HBL, DoDo game, a color vision deficiency screening test for young children, Proceedings of The ACM CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems 2014, 26 April - 1 May 2014, Toronto, Canada, pp. 2289-2292. ISBN 978-1-4503-2473-1 (2014) [Refereed Conference Paper]
Copyright Statement
Copyright 2014 The author
DOI: doi:10.1145/2556288.2557334
This paper presents "DoDos Catching Adventure," a new color vision deficient screening test for young children. Early detection of color blindness among children is useful for parents and teachers to better understand childrens needs, to overcome difficulties in learning, and for life and career planning. Unfortunately, current color screening tests are not designed for young children; most require more advanced verbal or cognitive skills. DoDo game has taken a new approach by embedding game elements into a color vision screening test. A user study conducted at Singapore National Eye Centre on twenty-eight children, identified fourteen as Red-Green deficient subjects as did by Ishihara screening test, showed that DoDo was adequately effective in identifying Red-Green color vision deficiency and comparable to two current gold standard colorblind tests, Ishihara and D15.
Item Details
|Item Type:
|Refereed Conference Paper
|digital game, color deficiency test, children game
|Research Division:
|Information and Computing Sciences
|Research Group:
|Information Systems
|Research Field:
|Computer-Human Interaction
|Objective Division:
|Information and Communication Services
|Objective Group:
|Computer Software and Services
|Objective Field:
|Application Tools and System Utilities
|UTAS Author:
|Duh, HBL (Professor Henry Duh)
|ID Code:
|Year Published:
|Deposited By:
|Information and Communication Technology
|Deposited On:
|Last Modified:
Repository Staff Only: item control page


text:
Or browse results titled :
Cascade Records
Paris, France
Contact Cascade Records
Streaming and Download help
Redeem code
If you like All The Best Remixes, you may also like:
Changesby Synkro
supported by 8 fans who also own "All The Best Remixes"
Un Lp magnifique. inrockuptible
Northby Sango
supported by 6 fans who also own "All The Best Remixes"
there's a potential
George score - 6/10 ⭐ GEORGE Angeles
Da Rocinha 3by Sango
Another sub-shredding masterpiece showcasing traditional brazilian music and rhythm. Sumoschro
SATURATED WARRIORS! (STRTLP011)by V. A.
Hard-hitting, aggro-techno bangers with synths that slash like serrated sheets of metal and booming beats that rock the body. Bandcamp New & Notable Jan 12, 2019
NEW RIVER E.Pby CLOUD MICHAELS
featured on Bandcamp Weekly Sep 5, 2017
Retina / Stay Remixesby Joe Turner
This remix collection from Joe Turner swings from soulful house to the outer edges of electronic music. Bandcamp New & Notable Sep 14, 2019
Unwise Gate Crash EPby Cut Records
featured on Bandcamp Weekly Aug 21, 2018
Bandcamp Daily your guide to the world of Bandcamp
The Best Albums of 2019: #20 – 1
A Roundup of The Best New Halftime Drum & Bass On Bandcamp
The Inventive World of Japan's Juke and Footwork Scene
On Bandcamp Radio
Best of 2019 pt.1 featuring an Interview with Helado Negro.


text:
The third forum in the HBA Workforce Housing series will be held Friday, June 29, focusing on state and local housing finance.
State and local housing finance agencies play a critical role in the availability of affordable and workforce housing, according to Marla Novak, director of government affairs with the Housing & Building Association of Colorado Springs.
"These agencies finance low- and moderate-income housing," according to a news release issued by the HBA. "With an understanding of the needs of local housing markets, housing finance agencies are uniquely positioned to responsibly underwrite mortgages — often with down payment assistance — for low-income, first-time homebuyers and to finance the development of multifamily affordable rental housing."
Novak said the forum is an ideal opportunity for organizations, community groups and individuals to learn more about the funding and programs available through the state and local entities participating in the panel.
The panel will include Irv Halter, executive director of the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA); Allison George, director of the DOLA Division of Housing; Cris White, executive director and CEO of the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority; DeAnne McCann, executive director for the El Paso County Housing Authority; Mike Burks, deputy director for city of Colorado Springs Housing Authority; and Steve Posey, HUD program administrator for the city of Colorado Springs.
"It'll be a great chance to learn more about how those organizations get their funding and how they work together to bring funding into our community at a state and local level, and how they then implement the funding in different projects that will help benefit affordable and workforce housing throughout our community here," Novak said.
The forum will run 8-11 a.m. June 29 at Centennial Hall (BoCC Chambers) at 200 S. Cascade Ave. Register at cshba.com/workforce-housing


text:
How Bespoke Italian Leather Shoes Are Made
I think the passion, you really need it to create something on a particular level. You need to give everything from yourself in there and that's the difference I think. Bespoke means for me, that I discuss really with the client what he wants. You have ideas here, you can see different materials, different models. It's very important to listen. Nowadays, many people don't listen anymore. The last is really the copy of your foot on which we create the shoe. But nobody shows you how to make a last, really, so you have to train it by yourself, and […]Read more


text:
Supplementary Materialstumor appropriate protein. solid tumor heterogeneity. With continuing study and marketing of the technique including evaluation of extra medical specimens, this approach may lead to an improved understanding of tumor heterogeneity, and serve as a platform for solid tumor biomarker discovery. em 2 Peptides /em in Table 1. Of the 367 proteins germane to tumor, 250 were unique to tumor and 117 were also common with stroma. Regarding the 164 proteins relevant to stroma, 47 were unique to this tissue type. Open in a separate Rabbit polyclonal to EGFR.EGFR is a receptor tyrosine kinase.Receptor for epidermal growth factor (EGF) and related growth factors including TGF-alpha, amphiregulin, betacellulin, heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor, GP30 and vaccinia virus growth factor. window Figure 3 Venn diagram depicting the relationship between proteins identified from tumor proper and tumor stroma. Of the 367 proteins strongly identified from tumor samples, 250 were unique to tumor, and 117 were common with stroma. Regarding the 164 proteins found in stroma, 47 were unique to this tissue. Table 1 Summary of LCM-MS Analysis of Lymph Node with Breast Cancer Metastasis thead th valign="bottom" align="left" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ tissue type /th th valign="bottom" align="right" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ total peptides /th th valign="bottom" align="right" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ unique peptides /th th valign="bottom" align="right" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ total proteins /th th valign="bottom" align="right" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ unique proteins ID via 2 peptides /th /thead Tumor26561760986367Stroma1532935486164Total418826951472531 Open in a separate window Table 2 Western Blots of Selected Proteins Identified in Tumor Proper and Stroma thead th valign="bottom" align="left" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ cells type /th th valign="bottom level" align="remaining" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ accession /th th valign="bottom level" align="remaining" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ proteins /th th valign="bottom level" align="correct" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ peptide count number /th th valign="bottom level" align="remaining" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ gene name /th /thead Stroma"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"P68133″,"term_id":"61218043″,"term_text message":"P68133″P68133Actin, alpha skeletal muscle tissue2ACTA1Stroma"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"Q96QV6″,"term_id":"74752099″,"term_text message":"Q96QV6″Q96QV6Histone H2A type 1-A4HIST1H2AATumor"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"Q13509″,"term_id":"20455526″,"term_text message":"Q13509″Q13509Tubulin beta-3 string2TUBB3Tumor"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"P08727″,"term_id":"311033484″,"term_text T-705 distributor message":"P08727″P08727Keratin, type 1 cytoskeletal 1920KRT19Tumor"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"Q02539″,"term_id":"18202479″,"term_text message":"Q02539″Q02539Histone H1.12HIST1H1ATumor"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"P16403″,"term_id":"417101″,"term_text message":"P16403″P16403Histone H1.22HIST1H1CTumor"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"P12830″,"term_id":"399166″,"term_text message":"P12830″P12830Epithelial cadherin precursor2CDH1Tumor"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"Q07812″,"term_id":"728945″,"term_text message":"Q07812″Q07812Apoptosis regulator BAX2BAXCommon"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"P08670″,"term_id":"55977767″,"term_text message":"P08670″P08670Vimentin30VIMCommon"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"P62736″,"term_id":"51316972″,"term_text message":"P62736″P62736Actin, aortic soft muscle16ACTA2Common"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"P62805″,"term_id":"51317339″,"term_text message":"P62805″P62805Histone H413HIST1H4BCommon"type":"entrez-protein","attrs":"text message":"P08758″,"term_id":"113960″,"term_text message":"P08758″P08758Annexin A54ANXA5 Open up in another home window Subcellular localization aswell as protein practical analyses for both tumor and stroma were performed using Ingenuity T-705 distributor Pathways Analysis. Outcomes for subcellular analyses are shown in Numbers 4 and ?and5.5. Percentage structure for stromal cells was plasma membrane = 14%, cytoplasm = 39%, nucleus = 11%, extracellular space = 27% and unfamiliar = 9%; as well as for tumor cells these outcomes had been 5%, 58%, 26%, 4%, and 7% respectively. Immediately noted are higher percentages of plasma membrane and extracellular space assignments for stroma. Regarding tumor samples, higher percentages of cytoplasm and nuclear assignments are noted as well. Figures 6 and ?and77 show the results for protein function analyses. Evident in this analysis are higher levels of enzyme assignments between stroma and tumor (16% vs 28%), and transcription regulator assignments (5% vs 8%). Open in a separate window Physique 4 Subcellular localization: tumor. Open in a separate window Physique 5 Subcellular localization: stroma. Open in a separate window Physique 6 Protein function: stroma. Open in a separate window Physique 7 Protein function: tumor. Cross-validation studies using Western immunoblotting were performed on proteins identified in stroma, tumor, and both tissue histology types (common). Table 2 list the relevant tissue type, protein accession number, protein name, peptide count, and gene name for the 12 proteins for which westerns were performed. Body 8 shows the Traditional western blots from the six tumor related protein, specifically, Bax (20 kDa), Keratin 19 (40 kDa), Histone H1 (H1.1 33 kDa; H1.2 25 kDa), E-Cadherin (100 kDa), and Beta-Tubulin (50 kDa). Traditional western blots of both stroma related proteins, Histone T-705 distributor H2A.
GP30 and vaccinia virus growth factor.
Alcoholic steatosis is normally a simple metabolic disorder in the progression
Alcoholic steatosis is normally a simple metabolic disorder in the progression of alcoholic liver organ disease. Zinc supplementation improved alcoholic beverages fat burning capacity and attenuated oxidative tension and liver organ injury. Zinc supplementation also normalized alcohol-mediated raises in plasma triglycerides and partially reversed decrease in gonadal adipose depot (GAD) mass. Studies in HepG2 cells showed that zinc deprivation significantly suppressed the DNA binding activities of HNF-4 and PPAR-, and reduced HNF-4 and PPAR- target proteins. As a result, zinc deprivation caused cellular build up of lipid droplets, triglycerides and free fatty acids in the HepG2 cells. Conclusions: Zinc supplementation reverses alcoholic steatosis, and reactivation of HNF-4 and PPAR- by increasing zinc availability and inhibiting oxidative stress are potential mechanisms underlying these Adriamycin distributor beneficial effects of zinc on hepatic lipid homeostasis. for 10 min, and the producing supernatants were used. Fatty acid -oxidation was assayed as palmitoyl-CoA-dependent NAD+ reduction by using an Adriamycin distributor assay combination comprising 50 mM-potassium phosphate, 0.5 mM NAD+, 0.2 mM CoA, 1 mM-dithiothreitol, 0.005 % (w/w) Triton X-100, pH 8.2. The reaction was started by addition of 50 M palmitoyl-CoA, and the reduction of NAD+ was recorded at 340 nm. Estimation of hepatic lipid export Hepatic VLDL triglyceride production was determined with the Triton WR1339 method as explained previously.22 In brief, mice after an overnight fast were anesthetized with Avertin (300 mg/kg body weight), and injected via tail vein with Triton WR1339 remedy (Tyloxapol, Sigma Chemicals, St. Louis, MO) at 500 mg/kg body weight. To injection and at 90 min after Triton WR1339 shot Prior, 40 l of bloodstream was attracted by retro-orbital bleeding, and plasma was separated and assessed for triglyceride focus. The hepatic VLDL triglyceride secretion price was portrayed as mg/g liver organ/h. Real-time RT-PCR assay The full total RNA was isolated and invert transcribed using the Moloney murine leukemia trojan invert transcriptase and oligo-dT primers. The forwards and invert primers had been designed using Primer Express Software program and shown in Desk 1. The SYBR green PCR Professional Combine (Applied Biosystems, Foster Town, CA) was employed for real-time RT-PCR evaluation. The relative distinctions of gene appearance among groups had been evaluated using routine time values. The info had been normalized to 18s and portrayed as adjustments fairly, setting the beliefs of control mice as you. Desk 1 Primer sequences for real-time RT-PCR thead th align="still left" Rabbit polyclonal to EGFR.EGFR is a receptor tyrosine kinase.Receptor for epidermal growth factor (EGF) and related growth factors including TGF-alpha, amphiregulin, betacellulin, heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor, GP30 and vaccinia virus growth factor. valign="best" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ Gene /th th align="still left" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ GeneBank br / Accession no. /th th align="still left" valign="best" rowspan="1″ colspan="1″ Sequences (Forwards/Change) /th /thead Acadl???"type":"entrez-nucleotide","attrs":"text message":"NM_007381″,"term_identification":"425876784″,"term_text message":"NM_007381″NM_007381GGCTTGCTTGGCATCAACAGAGTACGCTTGCTCTTCCCAAGTApoB???"type":"entrez-nucleotide","attrs":"text message":"BC100607″,"term_identification":"71680086″,"term_text message":"BC100607″BC100607GCGTCTGGGCTCAAGATGAAACACGTACTTTCGGAGGTGCTTCpta1???"type":"entrez-nucleotide","attrs":"text message":"NM_013495″,"term_identification":"162287141″,"term_text message":"NM_013495″NM_013495CCTGGGCATGATTGCAAAGACGCCACTCACGATGTTCTTCHNF4a??"type":"entrez-nucleotide","attrs":"text message":"NM_008261″,"term_identification":"921274054″,"term_text message":"NM_008261″NM_008261CGGAGCCCCTGCAAAGTCCAGTCTCACAGCCCATTCCMttp??"type":"entrez-nucleotide","attrs":"text message":"NM_008642″,"term_identification":"1243938627″,"term_text message":"NM_008642″NM_008642TCAAGAGAGGCTTGGCTAGCTTGCCTGGTAGGTCACTTTACAATCCPpara??"type":"entrez-nucleotide","attrs":"text message":"X89577″,"term_identification":"1051294″,"term_text message":"X89577″X89577CCATACAGGAGAGCAGGGATTTTTACCTACGCTCAGCCCTCTTCAdh1??"type":"entrez-nucleotide","attrs":"text message":"M22611″,"term_identification":"191719″,"term_text message":"M22611″M22611GGCCGCCTTGACACCATGCACTCCTACGACGACGCTTAAdh4??"type":"entrez-nucleotide","attrs":"text message":"NM_011996″,"term_identification":"121247378″,"term_text message":"NM_011996″NM_011996GCAGTCCCCTTTGCATTGAACGTGGCGATTACCTGAATCCAdh5″type":"entrez-nucleotide","attrs":"text message":"NM_007410″,"term_identification":"568384758″,"term_text message":"NM_007410″NM_007410GGCAACGTGAAGGTCATGAGAGCTACTCCCACTACCACACTGACAAldh2″type":"entrez-nucleotide","attrs":"text message":"NM_009656″,"term_identification":"817379472″,"term_text message":"NM_009656″NM_009656AGCCAATTACCTGTCCCAAGCTAGACTGGGCCCCAAACACA18s??"type":"entrez-nucleotide","attrs":"text message":"X56974″,"term_identification":"50872″,"term_text message":"X56974″X56974CGAACGTCTGCCCTATCAACTTCCGGAATCGAACCCTGATT Open in a separate windowpane HNF-4 and PPAR- DNA binding assay Adriamycin distributor Nuclear components from mouse liver and HepG2 cells were prepared using a kit from Active Motif (Carlsbad, CA). The HNF-4 and PPAR- function was assessed by measuring the DNA binding ability having a Trans-AM? HNF Family Transcription Element ELISA Kit from Active Motif (Carlsbad, CA) and a PPAR- Transcription Element ELISA Kit from Cayman Chemical (Ann Arbor, MI), Adriamycin distributor respectively. Each kit consists of a 96-well plate into which a specific oligonucleotide sequence comprising the consensus site of HNF-4 or PPAR- is definitely immobilized. The HNF-4 or PPAR- bound to the consensus site is definitely identified by a rabbit polyclonal antibody against HNF-4 or PPAR-, followed by incubation having a horseradish peroxidase-conjugated secondary antibody for the colorimetric quantification. Measurement of hepatic oxidative stress The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase were measured using assay packages form Cayman Chemical (Ann Arbor, MI). The lipid peroxidation product, malondialdehyde, was measured as thiobarbituric acidity reactive chemicals (TBARS) using a Cayman TBARS package. Immunoblotting evaluation Aliquots filled with 30 g proteins were loaded to a 8C12% SDS-polyacrylamide gel. After electrophoresis, protein were used in polyvinylidene fluoride membrane. The membrane was.


text:
It's been a bad, bad seven days, but one perfect thing just happened. Every kernel popped in my bag of jalapeno flavored popcorn without scorching. (My house smells like a gym, because this popcorn maybe shouldn't have rec'd the go ahead before they worked that smell out, and then I add butter, garlic powder and parmesan - green can - to the mix, which isn't helping, but I don'curr, because I can barely smell it. Two good things!)
I'm also here to share the perfection of eating popcorn with chopsticks if you're not already down with that, but (womp womp) it doesn't work well if you're sick and shaky and stuff.
tl;dr Popcorn is good, better with garlic powder, parm and extra butter, and chopsticks so you don't get stuff all over your fingers.


text: Year in Review Last Year Was Booming for Telcos in Ad Tech. Here's How 2019 Could Be Another Strong Year They could have a major say in the ad-tech M&A narrative. How the Marketing Technology Landscape Will Transform in the New Year We're in the midst of a tech renaissance. 3 Major Ways Agency Culture Will Change in the New Year Embrace your millennial workforce or risk isolating new hires completely. How the Advertising Landscape Will Continue to Evolve in 2019 Holding companies and Amazon will see big change in the coming year. The Top 10 Changes to Come to Marketing and Technology, According to Marketers It's a continuation of some familiar themes. How Using Addressable TV Can Reduce Repetitive Ads It's accessible enough that even smaller brands can do it. Publishing Underwent Massive Disruption but Remains Grounded With Quality Content and Emerging Tech Rumors of print's demise and accusations of fake news consumed 2018. Esports and Gaming Flourished in 2018, and Brands Won't Want to Miss in the New Year It's a market that deserves more attention from advertisers. 6 Trends Agencies Need to Prepare for in 2019 The past year saw a lot of upheaval in advertising. A Month-by-Month Look at the Most Engaging Brand Content on Social Media in 2018 These 24 marketing moves paid off, from Burger King to Harley Davidson. 1 2 3 … 5 Next »


text:
Most judges favor custody arrangements that maximize a child's contact with both parents. Overall the guide is always the "best interests of the child", but barring situations of neglect or abuse, chances are you will be sharing custody with your ex in some form. Do you wonder how you will communicate about parenting when you couldn't communicate during the marriage? Child custody agreements … [Read more...]
How to Navigate Shared Parenting: Communication Tips & Strategies
Child Support Q and A
Child support can be a very complicated area. While the state formulas can churn out numbers for the actual monthly payments, there are a lot of other issues that aren't so black and white. It's good to talk to your lawyer up front about the range of child support concerns that might develop in your situation. Depending on the age of your children, any specific plans you have for their schooling, … [Read more...]
Financial information important when divorcing in Summit County
If you have filed a complaint for divorce in Summit County (Ohio), or if you are the party against whom a divorce complaint has been filed, financial information supplied to the court and the other party will be a critically important part of the process. Do not misconstrue the previous statement to mean that money is the number one concern in a divorce.If you are undergoing a divorce, … [Read more...]
"Dual arrests" in domestic violence may hurt victims; New laws help with possible consequences
Police across the country have been making more arrests in domestic violence cases where BOTH parties wind up being arrested. In Ohio, these arrests are termed "dual arrests." A high number of "dual arrests" were being reported in the state of Connecticut, particularly in the past two years. The figure more than doubled the national average (NBC Connecticut Feb. 13, 2018). As a result, … [Read more...]
Tax Reform And Spousal Support: What You Need to Know in Ohio
If you are currently involved in a divorce or thinking about one, and a possible issue between you and your partner is likely to be spousal support ("alimony"), pay close attention to the new federal law on the subject. Here's why. Due to the tax reform measures which Congress passed on Dec. 22, 2017 the laws concerning spousal support have changed. One Ohio attorney described it as "one of … [Read more...]
Grandparents' Rights in Ohio Explained – Visitation and Custody
Grandparents often develop natural affinity with their grandchildren, even taking on vital duties in the grandchild's life. This relationship may, however, undergo a change when one parent passes away, or when the grandchild's parents obtain a divorce. In some cases, the father or mother who is awarded the child's custody may try to curtail or even entirely deny any visit by the parents of … [Read more...]
Living Arrangements During an Ohio Divorce or Dissolution
Reasons Not To Move Out The first piece of advice I give to a person seeking consult about an Ohio divorce or dissolution with children is, "Do not move out". If a divorce is filed by either you or your spouse, it is likely that temporary orders have or will be requested. A temporary orders hearing serves the purpose of determining how the parties are to act with and around one another, what … [Read more...]
Child Visitation Rights in Ohio for People Who Are Not The Parents
Are you a grandparent, relative, ex-stepparent, or other person who has had a continuing and beneficial relationship with a child? If so, the Ohio courts and legislature recognize the meaningful impact you can have in the development of young people. There are certain safeguards codified in the Ohio Revised Code (Ohio law) that will ensure that continuing relationship as long as it remains … [Read more...]
Children and an Ohio Divorce
When a parent contemplating a divorce calls our office for a free consultation with one of our domestic relations attorneys, most of the time the main concern is whether or not they will see their children ever again. The answer to this question is absolutely. Ohio Courts are not in the business of severing a relationship between parents unless the parent is not suitable to care for a minor … [Read more...]
Telling Your Children About Divorce
Divorcing couples sometimes become so focused on the issues between them that they almost forget about other members of the family and how the divorce may be seriously affecting them. Children, of course, are a very important part of the family. They need to be told what's going on in a manner that is considerate and supportive. The website, Today's Parent (todaysparent.com), defines three … [Read more...]


text:
Brothel Danvers
I'm willing to try stunning sex with hookers Danvers pay from 60$ and enjoy all night such varieties sex as urological massage or strapon.
Cheap Prostitute Danvers
Charming and appetizing, cute appearance. I will do everything at the highest level and I will satisfy even the most experienced guys.
Information about a naked prostitute Mariana
Town: Danvers
Age: 36
Cup Size: 2
Weight: 65
Height: 165
Votes: 82
Departure - At any time
Night - 750$
Tags: prostitutes in Danvers, how much are girls in Danvers, Affordable girls Danvers
Elite Whore Danvers
Want quality to pass by hours surrounded by attractive chic? I'm ready help relax)
Information about a hot skank Sofia
City: Danvers
Age: 33
Breast Size: 2
Weight: 49
Height: 171
Votes: 126
Departure - 20$
Night - 200$
Tags: Golden shower of rendition without problems, Professional massage will do, I practice Sex toys in Danvers
Best Prostitute Danvers
I Want caress you his home in bed, i'm very bored here when I'm alone!
Info about a hot prostitute Elizabeth
Place: Danvers
Age: 29
Breast Size: 3
Weight: 70
Height: 163
Votes: 87
Departure - Only in saunas
Night - 800$
Tags: how much are whores in Danvers, Danvers rent whores to the sauna, skank Danvers
Verified Slut Danvers
Call Me and your leisure will best.
Information about a hot hooker Samantha
City: Danvers
Age: 35
Cup Size: 4
Weight: 48
Height: 158
Votes: 136
Departure - For an additional fee
Night - 950$
Tags: telephones skank Danvers, Lesbian show easy easily, Foot fetish will do
Verified Prostitute Danvers
Stuck on appetizing images, do not decide, fearing?! I must now phone and spend an unforgettable time
Info about a hot whore Sofia
City: Danvers
Age: 25
Breast Size: 4
Weight: 74
Height: 166
Votes: 103
Departure - No problem
Night - 450$
Tags: Danvers order hookers to the party, I will come at a party in Danvers, I will come on corporate in Danvers
Real Girl Danvers
Passionate girl width gentle face misses, call me!
Info about a naked prostitute Keira
Town: Danvers
Age: 27
Breast Size: 3
Weight: 69
Height: 160
Votes: 33
Departure - At any time
Night - 300$
Tags: I do Classic massage in Danvers, Services of Mistress in Danvers, Sex with two girls in Danvers
Hot Hooker Danvers
Hangs at the beckoning pictures, do not decide, postpone?! I advise now see and spend time together
Information about a nude slut Lucy
City: Danvers
Age: 25
Cup Size: 3
Weight: 66
Height: 167
Votes: 19
Departure - No
Night - 800$
Tags: Easy domination in Danvers, Danvers order prostitutes for corporate, Kopro delivery without problems
Naked Girl Danvers
Call Me Now and time with me will unforgettable.
Info about a hot girl Avery
Town: Danvers
Age: 30
Cup Size: 4
Weight: 75
Height: 161
Votes: 114
Departure - In the area
Night - 400$
Tags: I will come in a sauna in Danvers, telephones sluts Danvers, how much are girls in Danvers
Everyone will be able to select himself skank for yourself.
Tags: I practice Fetish in Danvers, Oral without sex without problems, Classic massage in Danvers


text:
To resolve the challenge of turning Russia into a leading country for innovation, the Kremlin should first understand the reasons why Russia's home-grown start-ups are leaving for the West.
Viktor Vekselberg, president of Skolkovo Foundation, chairman of the directors' board of Renova Group, speaks at the Startup Village international conference of startup companies and investors. Photo: RIA Novosti.
For a different take read: "Russia's startup migration could help repair relationship with the US"
As more and more Russian start-ups relocate to the West, there have been growing concerns about the permanence of this trend and its potential effects for the Russian economy. What, then, are the reasons behind these young companies moving out of Russia and what does it mean for the future?
First of all, it is worth taking a look at what an emerging company, often in the high-tech sector, needs in order to grow and capture or create a new market segment. Creative ideas combined with managerial talent and a small pool of qualified staff are essential at the initial phase.
Next comes the seed funding round, in order to move from the idea to the implementation, when a given product can enter the market. There are also important advantages related to the location of a given start-up.
Proximity to other start-ups enhances the exchange of ideas, helps in building networks, and eases access to potential investors. Often, proximity to customers is very important in order to be able to realize the potential of a given market segment. Finally, stable market conditions are essential for strategic planning.
What is Russia's innovation potential?
Now, let's see how these factors compare in Russia.
With a relatively high number of researchers, especially in the sciences, a high number of patent applications, and the like, there seems to be lots of human capital for start-ups in the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) field or ICT-using fields. And indeed, this market has been expanding.
For example, the Russian online retail sector, which often uses newly developed applications, expanded by 10-15 percent in 2014 in dollar terms. During 2010-2013, the e-commerce sector (which has been the main destination for venture capital investment in Russia) attracted nearly $1.3 billion.
On top of venture capital investing in local start-ups, the Russian government provides seed money and grants, predominantly in the more technical market segments. As TNW News writes, the Russian government financed almost 40 percent of seed deals and one-fourth of all start-up early stage funding in 2013.
When thinking about the market potential, it is enough to mention that in 2010 there were nearly 260 million Russian speakers globally, 137 million of which live in Russia. About 68 percent of the population uses the internet, which falls just a bit short of the densely populated and highly developed euro zone, according to the World Bank World Doing Business 2013 database.
Only half as many people is connected to the broadband in Russia as in the euro zone, but given the geographic size of the country, the Internet penetration rate is still impressive. On top of that, Russia has one of the highest rates of mobile penetration in the world, which shows the extent of the market potential.
Recommended: "To innovate, Russia needs to unchain itself from state control"
A broader look at Russia's macroeconomic situation
The picture gets blurred when one reflects on whether the Russian economy is governed by a stable and predictable set of rules. The general business environment does not seem to be very conducive to sustainable economic growth.
Russia ranks 62 out of 189 countries in the World Bank 2015 Ease of Doing Business rating. It does not look that dramatic as it is still higher than the regional (Eastern European and Central Asian) average, yet certain regulations hamper business development.
For example, companies willing to sell beyond national borders may find doing it very difficult, as compared to conditions in many other countries. Moreover, the perception of corruption is still very prevalent, as Russia ranks 136 out of the total 174 countries in the Transparency International Corruption Perception Index, which puts it among the most corrupt countries in the world.
Moreover, the unfavorable macroeconomic situation does not provide lots of grounds for optimism. The Russian economy by and large is still dependent on fluctuation in oil and commodity prices and has been suffering from economic sanctions.
Russian gross domestic product (GDP), after practically stagnating in 2014, ended the first half of 2015 with a broad-based contraction of 3 percent. The decline of real incomes and, what follows, consumption, has been larger than earlier expected.
The high cost of credit has hampered business investment. As a result, the growth of the e-commerce sector (still the most important tech sector in Russia) has been slowing down considerably in 2015. Attracting venture money became more difficult in 2014 and 2015 as opposed to earlier years.
In comparison to this fluctuating business environment, the U.S. or the UK markets offer more mature conditions to develop an enterprise. The potential pool of venture capital or the average funding from "business angels" is considerably larger than in Russia, even in good times.
The proximity to other ventures in tech clusters like those in California, New York or London, plays a very important role, too. Some of the start-ups from Russia would have gravitated to those innovation hubs anyway, as a natural consequence of their development.
The Russian market continues to offer large untapped potential. However, new companies do respond to the same overall conditions as more mature companies. In order to grow, they require stable economic conditions.
Currently, with the Russian economy sliding, the start-up sector is affected, just like any other sector of the economy. The balance of economic push and pull factors resulted in the net outflow of some new, innovative undertakings out of Russia.
The primary reasons behind this outflow are an unstable environment, uncertain future, and decrease in demand (both regionally and nationally). Even the availability of highly skilled Russian ICT specialists, researchers and government seed money do not seem to offset it.
On the contrary, the pull factors of global start-up clusters are as attractive to Russian firms as they are to entrepreneurs coming from elsewhere. As a consequence, at the moment there are good reasons for Russian start-ups gravitating towards these global clusters. As long as the overall macroeconomic prospects in Russia do not change, this trend is unlikely to be reversed. In this context the Russian government's incentives seem to work for some but, overall, may be outweighed by grander promises elsewhere.
The opinion of the author may not necessarily reflect the position of Russia Direct or its staff.


text:
It's funny. I hadn't seen WOODSTOCK in its entirety in probably over 20 years. I had watched performance clips on Youtube and, of course, remember certain moments and statements and "characters" from the film, but I had completely forgotten what an absolute masterful piece of cinema it was. WOODSTOCK is so much more than a compilation of musical performances. And what's frightening is how easily the film could have been shot or reduced to that very thing if it had fallen into the hands of different filmmakers other than the team that ultimately defied the impossible and brought this film to life.
Director Michael Wadleigh, along with a ragtag team of some of the best documentary cameramen and women ever assembled, ace editor Thelma Schoonmaker and a very young editor and assistant director, Martin Scorsese, managed to work through some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable to capture the entire experience that was WOODSTOCK.
We all know the basic story: They expected between 150,000 to 200,000 people max to attend. They ended up with over half a million. A small city. No one was prepared. But that didn't matter. From audience to performers to coordinators, everyone worked in unison to pull off an event that was almost entirely peaceful and cooperative. And people from all over came to help with medical attention, food, shelter, whatever was needed to turn this state of emergency into one of the greatest events ever successfully undertaken. It truly was an unintended statement to the world at large. It was proof of something better, a way of thinking, a way of being. It wasn't just artifice, but a sampling of humanity. It was a living alternative. And everything that was said and done then, still resonates today.
And the film puts you right smack in the middle of it all. But it does so with a unique and powerful vision. Shot entirely on 16mm, the film was designed for and released in the 70mm format. Quite a leap. But Wadleigh and team pulled it off with some of the most daring split screen opticals ever seen. Suddenly, the stories within the story start to appear. What is being said or done on one side of the frame is being commented on, visually and otherwise, on the other. And the performances are each approached with a unique individuality to best capture the feel and flavor of the music, the performers, the environment in which they were playing and the audience to whom they were playing for. It wasn't just about capturing the music, it was about becoming part of the whole event. Thanks to the visionary talents of the folks behind the cameras and in the editing room, WOODSTOCK the film doesn't just show you the event, it is an elemental part of the event. And because of that, we are as well.
A great example is the CANNED HEAT segment of the film. One camera, one take. It's a testament to Wadleigh's eye, fluid camerawork and sense of the music (he was the handheld camera operator for this particular shot) and the great restraint and vision of the editors. It's a powerhouse moment that personalizes the performers and the environment around them. Around us. There is no desire on the part of the filmmakers to disguise the fact that they are there. They are as much a part of what is happening on that stage as the band members themselves.
Then there's THE WHO. Suddenly, we find ourselves with three separate frames within our single 70mm frame. The juxtaposition of images, many simply duplicates reversed to create a moving, breathing bookend to the center image, offer us not only different angles on the performers and crowd, but enhance–nay, recreate–the psychedelic and energetic nature of the music itself. It's an all-absorbing journey deep into the psyche of the adventure that was taking place on Max Yasgur's unsuspecting farm that evening. It is as much a visual feast of great complexity and wonder as it is a testament to the band's unmatched musicianship and tirelessly vital performance.
And after each band completes their set, we return once again to the ongoing saga happening behind the scenes. Be it one hell of a rainstorm that nearly stopped the show in its tracks, or the thoughts, fears, hopes and dreams of the people attending, or the amazement, horror or joy of the local townsfolk at witnessing the behavior of their new neighbors, or the social impact one senses the event is already starting to have long before its conclusion is in sight, WOODSTOCK cinematically captures a world that is, in many ways, still with us.
While the "hippie" movement and Summer Of Love have faded into history, the remnants of those recent times have been absorbed into our everyday society, our very way of life. Health food stores have grown into chains, yoga is now as commonplace as school, spirituality has moved into new regions where the choices are endless and mainstream. It's a far cry from the world that those who attended Woodstock may have envisioned, but changes were made nonetheless. Yeah, we still have wars and we moved into an age of greed and consumership that reflects the fear and confusion inherent in all societies and we still exhibit some of our puritanical roots, but we also have rallies and protests and the ability to call our leaders out and ask for something better. These are all things that were validated and given life in these times and the times that came before.
While there are many who believe the movement was misguided, short-lived and, ultimately, a failure, one has only to look around to see the effects it has had on the world in which we live. And the music that reflected the era, that spoke to a generation and beyond, is still some of the most powerful and heartfelt musical expression to be seen or heard anywhere throughout our long history. And WOODSTOCK the film shows us that in all its shades of light and dark. One need only witness the performances by Janis Joplin or Jimi Hendrix to understand and realize that there were geniuses in our midsts. And I do not throw that word around lightly. These were men and women who tapped into something rare, that segment of humanity who grace us with their inner voice, with a talent that belies their youthfulness, with a form of expression that deeply touches the soul of man and reveals it, naked and for all to see, with exquisite delicacy and wonder.
WOODSTOCK: THE DIRECTOR'S CUT is part of that revelation. And I am grateful for its existence. Both for its cultural value, its spiritual value, and its extreme artistic value, which I was far too young to comprehend when last I viewed the film. It is a place I hope to return to again and again. And next time, perhaps, I will take some others with me.