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The Cohabitation Rights Bill is a result of The Law Commission's report and proposals in 2007. The first reading of the Bill took place on 5 July 2017. This is a formality to start the procedure of the Bill passing through the House of Lords.
The present position
It is widely believed that when cohabiting couples separate they have similar rights to married couples – the so-called common-law marriage. In fact, this does not exist in English Law and cohabiting couples, whether opposite-sex or same-sex, are not nearly as protected as their married/civil partnered counterparts.
There are no rights on separation for a cohabitee who has given up their career to care for children. Similarly a cohabitee who has invested their savings to help their partner establish a business could be left with nothing when they separate. Where it is a married couple separating, these circumstances can be taken into account in financial proceedings under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973.
The proposal
The purpose of the Bill is to "to provide certain protections for persons who live together as a couple or have lived together as a couple as cohabitants; to make provision about the property of deceased persons who are survived by a cohabitant; and for connected purposes". Broadly, the Bill defines "cohabitants" as those who have lived together as a couple for 3 years or more, or couples who have a child together. The Bill provides that:
- Part 2 – Financial Settlement Orders
Applications for Financial Orders may be made within 2 years of the relationship ending compared with married couples where there is no time-limit following separation or divorce. Either the respondent must have retained a benefit or the applicant must have suffered an economic disadvantage as a result of the applicant's contributions – which is not required in the case of married couples.
The court may make orders for 1) payment of a lump sum, 2) transfer of property, 3) property settlement, 4) sale of property, and 5) pension sharing. These provisions mirror the orders available to married couples with the exception that, for married couples, the court may also make an order for spousal maintenance.
A significant difference between the Bill and the existing legislation for married couples is that cohabitees may choose to opt out of the financial settlement provisions. They must take legal advice before doing so and must each sign a statement.
- Part 3 – Insurance and Intestacy
The Bill would also ensure that a cohabitee has a presumed interest in the life of their partner for the purposes of life insurance under the Life Assurance Act 1774.
It would insert "qualifying cohabitant" into the Administration of Estates Act 1925 so that a cohabitee would have the same rights as a spouse should their partner die without a will (intestacy).
The Bill would also amend the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 so that a cohabitee may apply to the court where they believe that their partner's will does not adequately provide for them, just as a spouse can at present.
Arguments for and against
The number of cohabiting couples is increasing. The myth of the common-law-marriage is widespread and so many cohabitees also believe that their financial position is protected on separation when, in fact, it is not. This results in thousands of couples who are unwittingly exposed to the risks outlined above. Supporters of the Bill argue that given the proportion of the people affected, and that this number is increasing, it is appropriate that the government intervenes to protect those who are most vulnerable – usually women who give up their careers and their children.
Opponents highlight that cohabiting couples can already obtain this protection by getting married, particularly now that this right has been extended to same-sex couples. They state that cohabiting couples have specifically chosen not to marry and that they should not therefore have marriage-like rights and obligations forced upon them by legislation. The counterargument is that if one party does not wish to marry, the other cannot force them to and so only one party may be choosing not to take on the financial protection of marriage.
Other countries already have cohabitation laws. Scotland has had legislation similar to the proposed Bill since 2006 and Ireland since 2010. In previous attempts to introduce a Cohabitation Bill, opponents had suggested it was necessary to see whether the Scottish legislation was successful. Supporters argue there is now more than 10 years of evidence from the Scottish model and that it has received a positive response from senior members of the judiciary including Deputy President of the Supreme Court, Lady Hale. Australia, Canada and New Zealand also have laws for dealing with the separation of cohabiting couples.
What happens next
The next stage is the Second Reading which involves a general debate between those for and against the Bill. There have been several previous attempts to pass Cohabitation Bills. In 2014 a similar Bill reached the Second Reading. It did not progress any further. In 2015 a Cohabitation Bill did not reach the second stage. The Second Reading for the present Bill has not yet been scheduled.
References taken from Daily Hansard – 12 Dec 2014


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Rare1989 GI JOE Steel Brigade Mail Away Figure/ 6 years ago
Hasbro were smart when it came to marketing their toys. They took the mail away concept from cereal companies and changed it. GIJOE's came with points that could be clipped from the packages and mailed away for exclusive figures or vehicles. ramessesgreat is selling a mint Steel Brigade figure from 1989. The figure comes complete with back pack and an embroidered patch.2 Comments

subset: commoncrawl


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A deficiency of a simple vitamin B12 can be deathly, literally a killer! Who knew? Not me…Until I had to understand it to save my life
June 15th 2015. I had an appointment to see a specialist, one I held responsible for my current health dilemma. When I say dilemma, that's maybe a bit weak, I'll explain. I had waited 6 months for this moment, 6 weeks was the guidance but 6 months had become the reality. Is this normal?
Armed with a book I had researched (in English, visiting a Spanish doctor…..I'm digressing)
I searched a trusted translator locally so there would be no confusion in what I had to say as I remembered my specialist had struggled to understand me in either Spanish or English, mind you in the moment I had misunderstood myself quite alot and now it makes sense. Imagine now, writing a letter to relative stranger knowing the impact it will have on her and trusting you don't become talk of the village. Crazy but true!
The letter went along the lines of….."Dear Doc, please help me. I have waited 6 months, I feel unsafe, I feel very unstable, very confused, very worried, extremely distressed and seriously, I repeat I am not safe and I can't explain it right now". Can you imagine? An admission of this kind is like saying " I need locking up! " It's all about trust in yourself I realise, the ability to articulate your feelings without sounding like a nut job! In a nutshell, I was desperate, the pain, the neurological problems that were indescribable (largely due to word finding issues in my own native tongue).
"I'm breaking down, physically, emotionally, mentally and non of this is depression, I'm not depressed, of course I have worries…. no more than most other folk I know but my doctor has prescribed me drugs after drug after more and more based purely on how I'm feeling…..medication I do not want nor believe I need. I survive, I work, sleep and with a new unhealthy penchant for gummy sweets gaining kilos upon kilos, excercise sets me back and i don't know what i can do unless you help me! Anti depressants help someone, but they're not going to help me. I need B12! I need it like I need water everyday!"
I was surprised not unpleasantly to find the doctor was not there and was replaced by a different specialist who although he appreciated my efforts in the letter in his mother tongue insisted on speaking in mine so I as the patient would be in no doubt at what he was about to tell me. I had a very good friend at my side who was able to describe my demise (in their language) over the past few months but how my determination and honesty in how I was feeling and reaching out for help had kept me going, waiting for this moment. Physically I was a complete train crash! My hands were numb, my spine was twisted, inside felt like a constant boiling kettle, dressing took 30 minuses. Can you imagine explaining to friends why just meeting for coffee was like planning a world trip in 2 days? Imagine your young (ish) friend explaining to you that just putting on her pants takes 10 minutes of considered yoga being unable to reach your feet! No, my friends didn't get it and the loneliness had krept in.
This man, Miguel his name, he took the prescriptions, the anti depressants, the lyrica and the pain killers, threw them in the bin and said "you need B12,I'm prescribing a shot every week for a year and In this time we'll explore the cause" He saw my book which I had felt was important to have ready with some corners folded on important and relevant pages and said he knew this book and did not scold me for researching as many doctors might.
I could have kissed that man! That was the beginning of getting my life back.
If you found this blog interesting, please like by pressing the option below this photo and follow me if you are interested in the whole topic and discovering more.


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After its plans to develop state-of-the-art railway stations on public private partnership (PPP), the Indian Railways is planning on similar lines, computerised passenger reservation system (PRS)-cum-unreserved ticketing system (UTS) run by authorised agents or Rail Travellers Service Agents (RTSAs).
The new booths will be called Yatri Ticket Suvidha Kendra (YTSK). The move comes three months after the railway administration stopped RTSAs from booking tickets and banned entry of agents into computerised reservation centres.
The move will help passengers who cannot avail of online reservation facilities.
"They won't have to run to railway reservation counters at railway stations. Every RTSA can open four terminals in the city. Those wishing to buy a current or reservation ticket can go to any of these centres and buy a ticket," said a spokesman.
Pune city has about 20 authorised RTSAs, thus 80 new YTSKs can come up in the city. Apart from making ticket booking more convenient, the railway will benefit from this arrangement, said railway officials.
"Railways has limitations in expanding facilities of passengers reservation centres (PRS). By this arrangement, railways recruit fresh manpower. It just has to create the infrastructure," said the official.
The railway board had issued a circular this month. To prevent malpractice, timings of operations of terminals are fixed an hour behind opening timing of PRS counters.
As per officials, railways will provide the licensee with computer terminals, ticket printers, modems and the licensee will need two data/communication channels between his location and the nearest computerised PRS centre.
📣 The Indian Express is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@indianexpress) and stay updated with the latest headlines
For all the latest Pune News, download Indian Express App.


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Magenic CTO Rockford Lhotka shares his insights on what technology trends to prepare for in the upcoming year.
Today's digital marketplace is moving with unprecedented speed. At Magenic, we're always looking forward and working fast to get great digital ideas to market sooner.
Here's some of our thinking on how you can move at the speed of business and win big in the market.
One of our experts will be contacting you directly within the next business day.Return To Home


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I would recommend GTI to any community association in the Las Vegas Valley because I know it would not take long for them to see how truly amazing their work and ethic are, and you will not be disappointed. Dallas R. Holmes, Board Director, Seven Hills Master Association
Welcome to GTI of Southern Nevada
GTI specializes in all types of landscape construction and maintenance, from the typical front yard to 100 acre parks to master associations. We take pride in our work and treat every project as if it were our own backyard.
GTI is a locally owned and operated company that has been providing high quality landscape service in the Las Vegas Valley for more than a decade. We use the latest technology and industry practices to keep your landscape looking its best year round.


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Volume 35 Issue 7: (Dec 2012)
The Greening of Brazil
Kathleen Maher
Issue: Volume 35 Issue 7: (Dec 2012)
The Greening of Brazil
Brazil is the land of re-invention. Brasilia, the capital, was founded in 1956 and inaugurated in 1960. What a crazy idea: Don't wait for the future, build the future, and let it rise out of the jungle to show the world what Brazil can really be.
The decision to move Brazil's capital from Rio de Janeiro on the east coast to the more centralized location where Brasilia now sits, was born of a desire to create a capital that represented all the people of Brazil, and not just those on the coast. Today, Brasilia is the largest city in the world that did not exist at the beginning of the 20th century.
Brazil has changed dramatically since the founding of its current capital. It has become a major world economy, but the people of Brazil see a bigger future for themselves, and not too surprisingly, it starts with the sport of soccer.
In 2014, Brazil will host the FIFA World Cup soccer championship, played every four years on an international stage. Not only is soccer immensely popular in Brazil, but it is also recognized as the most popular sport in the world. So what better showcase for the country to re-introduce itself to the world?
Early work using Autodesk's Sketchbook Designer
And Brazil is determined to use the opportunity to show itself as a modern, dynamic country, an economic powerhouse for the 21st century as it tries to scrub its reputation for those who only know the country from limited images of jam-packed Carnival and the sights of the Rio ghettos perched high on the hills surrounding the former capital city.
Making Plans
The architect firm Castro Mello specializes in sports architecture. Its founder, Icaro Mello, was a track and field Olympian. His son and grandson, Eduardo and Vicente, respectively, have continued the architectural legacy. The company has heavily involved itself in the development of new stadiums and infrastructure for the coming soccer event.
In 2007, in early preparations for the World Cup, Castro Mello participated in a study on Brazil's infrastructure for the World Cup led by Brazil's National Association of Engineering and Architecture companies (SINAENCO-SP) and its president, Jose Roberto Bernasconi. The study found that the country is good at building stadiums, but it was not good at maintaining those facilities. In fact, the study revealed that the current stadiums were in disrepair even though some of them were relatively new.
Construction of the new stadium in Brasilia.
Bernasconi contends that the poor conditions of the stadiums was both a cause and a consequence of low ticket prices in Brazil. Soccer might be Brazil's national obsession, but it has not been paying for itself. The report made waves in Brazil and, tragically, it was released just before the terrible collapse of a stand at the Fonte Nova stadium that killed seven people who fell from its highest point. That Brazilian stadium in Nazare, Salvador, held the last-place position in the study.
The year 2007 is a watershed for Brazil: The country was officially awarded the World Cup for 2014 at the same time the study reported the country's stadiums were far from ready to host such a large event. Bernasconi describes the coming of the World Cup as a challenge and as an opportunity. Castro Mello was determined to make the most of the World Cup as an opportunity.
The firm spearheaded the formation of CopaVerde, an effort to use the World Cup to kick-start a new round of sustainable infrastructure building in Brazil that included airports, highways, hotels, and stadiums. Castro Mello partner Ian McKee calls the CopaVerde a competition in which everyone wins.
In fact, McKee and Vicente Mello are leading the charge for sustainable building around Brazil's World Cup. To this end, all the stadiums for the 2014 World Cup will be built according to sustainability standards, and 11 of the 12 stadiums are applying for LEED certification. Only Sao Paulo is not going for LEED certification, a rating designation for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance green buildings.
Going for Platinum
The young Castro Mello architects are competitive. They are building the stadium in Brasilia, and they're determined to make it a showcase design and LEED project for Brazil. As the team focused on the design, they looked at the work done in China for the Bird's Nest Olympic venue from the 2008 summer games and in South Africa for their "green" stadiums built for the World Cup games hosted there in 2010. Clearly, the Bird's Nest just bugs the Castro Mello guys.
A look at the final design of the new Brasilia stadium, produced in Autodesk's 3ds Max Design Suite.
"The façade serves no purpose," says McKee, noting that it's a waste of steel. However, he will admit that there were energy-saving advances made in the design and building of the Bird's Nest and that the Olympia Village in Beijing is completely LEED certified.
The Castro Mello architects also point to the South African stadiums' pioneered water-saving techniques, which are consistent with the water challenges in that part of the world. As a matter of fact, sustainability has become an important qualification for buildings designed for mega events such as the Olympics, World Cup, and Pan American Games. Brazil's work being done for the World Cup represents the largest green building effort to date, encompassing airports, hotels, hospitals, public transportation, parks, and public spaces. The CopaVerde initiative is a plan to leave Brazil with 12 green cities after the World Cup is over.
Castro Mello is going for LEED Platinum certification, the highest rating, for the Mané Garrincha multi-purpose stadium in Brasilia. If they succeed, Brasilia will have the first ever LEED Platinum stadium. The architects are taking advantage of Brasilia's climate, called by some "an eternal spring."
"It's hot, but it's dry," says McKee, so it's cool in the shade.
Like South Africa, Brasilia has water constraints. And, as McKee describes it, stadiums are surge buildings. They accommodate lots of people for huge events, but after all is said and done, they usually will be called on to host much smaller crowds. Brasilia's stadium can be downsized to accommodate smaller audiences for concerts, in the range of 27,000 people. Its capacity for the full World Cup soccer crowd will be 70,000.
Castro Mello is relying on open ventilation with a screen roof made of magical white photocatalytic membrane that helps neutralize pollution and foster cool shade. Around the top of Mané Garrincha stadium will be a very large bank of solar panels. The solar panels will produce 2.5 MWp (watt-peak) of capacity, and when not in use, it will be able to feed electricity back into Brasilia's grid. When the stadium is at capacity, the solar panels are expected to meet 50 percent of the power demand. Overall, it is believed that the stadium will help save $3.78 million in energy costs per year.
The complex design for the stadium was created using Autodesk tools.
Then there are the aesthetics to consider. The stadium has to fit into Brasilia's very design-conscious architecture—structures are set back from large plazas. The stadium is supported by pillars around the outside of the building, facilitating airflow. Moreover, the design reflects other buildings in the city, yet adds a more modern commentary. The plaza features reflection pools that function as reservoirs to catch water during the rainy season and save it for the dry months.
As a planned community, Brasilia itself already cooperates with the grand plan of greener living, but there's more that can be done. "This is an opportunity to transform the city," says McKee. The city is laid out with logical areas for business and entertainment. Many of the visitors coming in for the World Cup will be able to walk from the hotels—there will be bike lanes, as well, and public transportation will help alleviate traffic congestion. Less traffic, less emissions polluting the air.
Visual Tools and BIM
Castro Mello is not only handling the design of Brasilia's stadium, but is also overseeing the project throughout construction—a situation that's not unusual for large-infrastructure projects, and, of course, the firm has long experience in this area. The company is Autodesk's poster child for the firm's suite of products. Castro Mello is using everything in the box—and even some tools that are not. The firm has experimented with the Project Vaseri Ecotect Wind Tunnel tool (from Autodesk Labs) and used virtually everything Autodesk offers for visualization.
Yet, it's always helpful to remember that the real bread-and-butter tool for the company is AutoCAD. It's used in most of the design and for the construction work, as well. The advantage of AutoCAD is that it's a common language for CAD and design. Everyone knows how to use it, and changes are easy to make from the construction site to the office. Revit can sit in the middle and add 3D intelligence, which helps everyone understand what's going on in the project.
In a way, it's kind of heresy to say this, but in reality, it's not what the products are used to do, it's how the tools enable people to work. Castro Mello is planning a system that takes advantage of basic CAD for documentation and communication. It uses 3D visualizations and simulations, and in the end, all this work is designed to produce a building that can be managed. As mentioned, the size of the building can be adapted to be comfortable and efficient for smaller crowds. It has a sleep mode. It's designed to keep the promises made through the design and build phases.
Other Problems
Castro Mello reports that the Brasilia stadium is on track, but while the building and design of the stadiums have been high profile and inspiring, the devil is at work in the details—well, he's been at work in more than the details. Charges of corruption have been thrown all around.
As reported in Forbes, International Olympics Committee (IOC) Board Member João Havelange quit after he was accused of taking millions in kickback payments during his reign as FIFA's president. His son-in-law, Ricardo Teixeira, was president of the Brazilian Football Confederation up until March 2012, having resigned from his posts after the accusations of corruption started piling up to an embarrassing degree. Teixeira finally resigned from that post as well as from the FIFA executive committee.
There are also some doubts that all the stadiums will be ready on time. While there's corruption on one hand, there's bureaucratic bungling on the other. The hope was to have some of the stadiums ready for the FIFA Confederation Games in 2013. FIFA is looking at these preliminary rounds in 2013 as an indicator of how ready Brazil will be by 2014, and they may seek to shift venues or reduce the number of cities planned for play. Ironically, it was Teixeira who pushed for 12 cities. The original plans called for eight.
Now, this hasn't been researched, but has there ever been a giant undertaking like the Olympics, the World Cup, an election, or a war that hasn't been plagued by corruption charges, bureaucratic problems, and delays?
Bernasconi insists that the World Cup is Brazil's opportunity to leapfrog progress. He notes that as better stadiums are coming online, ticket prices are going up. And the infrastructure being built now will last the country for decades. No question, the country can't afford to fail. After the World Cup, Brazil has to prepare for the 2016 Olympics in Rio.
Kathleen Maher is a contributing editor to CGW, a senior analyst at Jon Peddie Research, a Tiburon, California-based consultancy specializing in graphics and multimedia, and editor in chief of JPR's "TechWatch." She can be reached at
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A former news outlet converted into a proudly progressive personal political and public policy blog. I'll surely make people angry. Good. I hope I make them think.
I've never had a FB or Twitter account. G+ is the social media platform for topics, opinions, and information, but you disabled comments on your G+ post of this, which is not very social. There are literally billions of blogs now - and the vast majority are read by no one.


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More About KPELEVEN
Recipes I've Shared:
Creamy Coconut Crockpot Chicken with Pineapple and Rice
This is a great meal to throw into the Crock Pot on the way to work. Easily modifiable to make it the way you like it!! Enjoy!
Hit the spot Chicken Burgers
These "hamburgers" are fantastic. Moist, delicious and they have plenty of flavour!
Recipes I've Rated:
- Roasted Beet Salad
- Kale with Sesame
- Roasted Kale Chips
- Spinach and Roasted Beet Salad with Ginger Vinaigrette
- Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares
- parmesean sweet potatoe fries
- Salmon and corn chowder
- Coconut Meringue Cookies
- Roasted Garlic & Sweet Potato Soup
- Corn Flake Chicken Nuggets
- Cheeseburger soup
- Cottage Cheese Pancakes
- No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars
Recipe Collections I've Shared:


text: Greeting from Lord Michel mac Donnchaid, In the setting of a bustling trade city on the Mediterranean in the time of the Crusades, come join the Barony of the Eldern Hills and enjoy the Tourneys to select the new Eldern Champions of Chivalric, Rapier, and Schlagger fighting. More information is available at the weblink located on the Unofficial Kingdom calendar, and in the June issue of the BlackStar. Autocrat: Feastocrats Lord Michel mac Donnchaid HE Adria Lorelle (mka) Mike Gideon (mka) Terrie Smith (580) 252-2520 Lord Armand de Chartres (mka) Daniel Pipe (580) 248-5708 Please no calls after 10 pm. Feast is limited to 65, so reservations are suggested ============================================================================ Go to http://lists.ansteorra.org/lists.html to perform mailing list tasks.


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The Union Project, launched in November 2013 by first-time entrepreneurs Max Shaw and Chris Capewell in Queen's Circus, Cheltenham has teamed up with Charlie Noble, another Cheltenham business.
An independent menswear store, The Union Project stocks a curated selection of the finest contemporary men's fashion and sneakers in a space that reflects the pair's strong commitment to quality products and service.
Charlie Noble, started by Luke Baghdadi, produces high quality bags, made with Scottish leather, backed with British weaved cotton and stitched in East London.
Inspired by Charlie Noble, a mid-19th century eccentric captain, Luke set out to capture his spirit, flair, and attention to detail with his products. Combining traditional British craftsmanship with stylish contemporary twists in design, Charlie Noble have produced a modest yet gorgeous range.
Both Charlie Noble and The Union Project were supported with a government-backed Start Up Loan from SWIG Start Ups with business support from Gloucestershire Enterprise as part of the scheme.
Luke said: "I was looking at the SWIG Start Ups Facebook page and I saw the Union Project case study. I gave them a call and we had a meeting. They really liked the Charlie Noble bags and were happy to stock them.
"Max and Chris are really great guys so we exchanged stories about starting up and financing and it's great to be working with another start up business."
If you're visiting Cheltenham as part of the Cheltenham Festival starting this week, make sure you check out these talented new start up businesses.
Visit The Union Project 6 Queens Circus, Cheltenham GL50 1RX
Find out more http://theunionproject.co.uk/ & www.charlienoble.co.uk
Link up with other SWIG Start Up Businesses on our LinkedIn page and share stories, get peer to peer support and business opportunities.


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Hello Being A Wordsmith readers! Welcome to my first edition of Food Facts and Hacks. This will be a weekly post about interesting tidbits and tips related to food. I hope you enjoy it.
coffee credit: dictionary.com
[kaw-fee, kof-ee]
Oh coffee, how I love thee, let me count the ways.
Americans drink approximately 3 cups of coffee daily. How about you?
- Coffee's origin can be traced back to the 16th century.
- It doesn't matter how fresh-picked they are, coffee beans are actually tasteless until they're roasted.
- Using cold filtered water to make coffee improves its taste.
Interesting stuff, right?
What do you find surprising about these coffee facts and hacks?
Are you a specialty coffee drinker?
See ya later,
Linking to: The Mommy Monday Blog Hop, Friday Feature Linky Party, Meandering Mondays


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The idea of selling the courageous message of a brand, as opposed to a product, intoxicated these CEOs, providing as it did an opportunity for seemingly limitless expansion. After all, if a brand was not a product, it could be anything. [Naomi Klein, No Logo, 22]
The BwO is what remains when you take everything away. What you take away is precisely the phantasy, and significances and subjectifications as a whole. [Deleuze and Guattari, A Thousand Plateaus, 168]
My first guilty feeling in putting these quotes beside each other is that it's a cheap-shot, or a lazy shot at least. No Logo was one of those Important Books of the noughties, but we have – it would seem – so completely absorbed everything it says that we can afford to be dismissive and cynical about it. Having a copy of it on your bookshelf is an invitation for a masochistic circle-jerk of the right-on. Naomi Klein as the Alain de Botton of the left. Continue reading


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Writing a book is hard. Trust me, writing a blog and maybe a poem every other week is enough for me. So I give a thumbs up to Ernest Cline, the author of Ready Player One, and everyone else who decides to make art. So in this post, I'll give RPO a thumps up with one hand and use the other to write (yes, this was all on paper originally) my critique.
The pervading problem with this book is that it is way too extra for me to enjoy, allowing for both contradictions and superficiality that lessen the immersion and importance of its subject matter. The paragraphs will focus on poverty, A.I., Wade's skills, Wade's love interest, a list of other ways the book was extra, a passionate discussion of Aech, a complaint on how the'80s theme was handled, and a conclusion. So While I encourage you to read all of it, becauuse it all points a thesis that I hope you'll agree with, if not also feel in your bones, at least there's a guide if you just want to pick and choose from my buffet of complaints.
One of the first contradictions that this book makes is between the overwhelming poverty in its dystopian setting and the isolation Wade feels for being poor in the OASIS. This book doesn't really hold back on describing the world as being impoverished: energy crisis, mass migration, stacks, etc. So on one hand there is a world of poverty, which is fine on its own. On the other hand, there is a social elite, complete with virtual space ships, teleporters, planets, expensive virtual clothes, etc. So lots of stories explore this dichotomy, but they are consistent in a way that RPO is not. In this story, Wade seems to be the only poor person in school, and this is a major factor to his character and narrative. Every time Wade mentions the poverty or the rich people in his school, I found myself asking: where are all the poor students? Wade barely had decent grades, and halliday made sure that the OASIS public school system would receive funding forever, so why was Wade given a headset and no one else who was poor? This is a relatively unimportant contradiction, but it was the first I saw and it was repeated often, so I thought I'd start here and give harsher criticism later.
Another way that being too extra makes a thematic contradiction in this story is when Wade plays against the A.I. guarding the first key. On one page, he says that A.I. could never be like humans because the software can't "improvise," (82). In the story's logic A.I. could never beat humans because they cannot do what humans do, so thus they are definitely not human. This would have been fine, but then the book goes further by having Wade also think that he "was actually playing against Halliday," (83). He could have thought that he was playing against Halliday's creation or something, but instead he breaks his own internal logic by saying both that A.I. can never be like humans and that the A.I. is Halliday. This is a simple contradiction that could have been easily avoided if the book wasn't trying to be so extra.
Speaking of being too extra, let's talk about how much praise the book gives Wade for his video game skills and 80's knowledge. Wade, after not playing a game for 2 years, beats the A.I. on his first try. Then he goes on to beat every other challenge without breaking a sweat. This means that our hero never fails, never has to reflect on the fact that he isn't a perfect gunter, because he is. This really takes out the tension of each challenge and makes the story less interesting, since we don't know how Wade reacts to not being perfect, which is something that everyone deals with. Not only this, but it is also unrealistic for him to be so good. UNREALISTIC!? But it's just a book, who cares. The author, for one, seems to. He also seems to think that we will, since he goes into a lot of effort to show how much time Wade puts in to playing games to justify his perfection. In bragging to us about how much Wade knows, Wade concludes by telling us that he studies "Twelve hours a day, seven days a week" (64). If we factor in 40 hours for school and only 7 hours of homework a week, that means that he only sleeps for 37 hours throughout the week, which is just 5.3 hours per week every day during the school year. I'm no doctor, but I'd imagine that if someone only got that much sleep for the school year for 5 years, he'd be dead, or at least unable to function even in the virtual world. His knowledge, talent, and obsession is just too extra to be realistic or entertaining narrative-wise.
Wanna talk about the character of Wade being extra? Let's talk about how far the author goes to show how genuine and accepting he is. When describing how his crush is pretty much the only person in OASIS to have a female avatar to not have "the absurdly thin yet wildly popular supermodel frame, or the top-heavy, wasp-waisted porn starlet physique" we get the impression that his crush is genuine because he likes her for who she really is (35). First, the stereotype of almost everyone changing their body in such stereotypical ways is too much to even be called cliche; second, the fact that she is one of the few who break it is such a "she's not like other girls" trope used to – third – show why Wade isn't like other guys, because he likes the genuine girl. Also, he has a crush on her. No, not a crush, more like an unhealthy obsession, going so far as to keep a picture of her to look at. Next, lets look at her narrative: she gets helped (read: saved) by the protagonist for parts of the egg hunt, opens up about her personal life to someone she really doesn't know and thus of course falls in love with him, breaks up with him to work on her own, then realizes what a great guy he is after the final battle and gets back together with him. Her journey revolves around realizing how genuine the main character is. Blegh.
I could talk about a LOT more: Halliday's inconsistent, unimportant platitude to live in the real world, Wade's lack of reaction about the deaths he caused by refusing Sorrento (wow look how alpha and determined he is!), their portrayal of internet culture with I-Rok and how the WORST aspects of the internet were staged in front of a cheering crowd without any deeper reflection (for heaven's sake, they call him a retard and two derogatory terms for gay people without a blink of an eye), the constant insistence that just because Wade knows a lot about 80's culture means that he somehow deserves to win the prize attached to the contest (does anyone remember how he wanted to spend it all on escaping Earth?), Halliday's creepy and unrealistic, and seemingly justified obsession with someone who doesn't like him, the total lack of anything but superficial character growth, predictable ending, the constant use of deus ex machina explained after-the-fact (oh he bought a tool to hack IOI's network! and Pacman gave him the extra life!), the undeserved and superficial reference that turns out to be totally irrelevant of ""No one in the world ever gets what they want and that is beautiful," (199), the constant spelling-out of references, and the amount of times that the book gives us the same exact piece of exposition over and over again (how many times have I read that about Halliday's backstory?). Sure, this is all extra, but there are two more topics that I want to talk about in more depth.
The first is the reveal of Aech. I'll start with the artistic decision to make her a checkmark for every victimized identity he could think of: female, black, lesbian, and heavy. This would be amazing if Aech's character was actually influenced by her identity. Instead, we get a short backstory that seems to only explain why she has a van and why she doesn't live with her parents. Before and after this, Aech's identity DOES NOT MATTER. It impacts nothing, and we learn nothing more. Is Wade interested in how she feels about not representing her race/gender and thus not providing a good model of those minorities? Surely she has some opinion on that. What about how weird it is that she feels discrimination in the real world and not in OASIS? Or how her family feels about this? Or about how her behavior is sort of encouraging her to be ashamed about her identity? What about how she feels when people talk poorly about any of her identities in the game (what about when Wade calls I-Rok a twink or when I-Rok calls them fags?). There is a wealth of characterization here, and we don't get more than two paragraphs about it before we return to how Wade feels about all of this.
All of this, all of her identity checks, backstory, possibility for characterization, is all just there to show that Wade is a good person and that he will still be friends with Aech despite this. F*ck that bs. I already disliked this book a lot, but this made me throw the book against the floor. Marginalized identities to a side character should not be used to make the main character look more accepting. They should not be used as just a plot twist. And they do not deserved to be ignored, as Wade so easily does by continuing to refer to Aech as a "he." Does he ask her which pronoun to use? He couldn't care less. How Wade wants to refer to Aech is all that matters, her identity is nothing more than Wade's interpretation of it (much like how Cartman is treating Token in the picture above). But so, while for a brief moment there could be an interesting character in this book, is then taken away because the author really doesn't want to explore the issue beyond how it can make the protagonist look tolerant. In short, the book is so extra in making Wade look genuine that it makes one of its characters fit every marginalized identity and explores it with as much brevity as possible to keep the focus on how Wade is so great for accepting Aech. This alone is pathetic enough to make me hate the book.
One more thing. The book is filled beyond the brim to '80s references. The narrative is constantly interrupted with explanations about references, and many more are name dropped in there. This would be fine if there was more, but that's it. There is no theme to connect everything. It's just there, and it could easily be replaced with anything else and not change anything. The '80s references are just there as wallpaper, having no significance beyond letting the reader feel good about remembering some references. What is significant about the '80s that Halliday became obsessed with it? Why does it pervade everywhere? No reason, just that he was a kid there.
It's more of a trivia challenge than something interesting. The author could have expanded upon how the escapism of that culture matches that of the OASIS, or it's origin in the powerful economy of the '80s and how that relates to their society, or something. Instead all we get is a list of things that people remember from the '80s. And I didn't care. Nothing about it was interesting.
In conclusion, this book isn't so much suffering from a few flaws as much as it is filled to the brim with problems. That is why I can't just find it fun. However, I don't mean to offend anyone who did enjoy the book, since reading is a subjective and personal experience. I'm just suggesting that if you want to swim in this book's water, don't dive headfirst; brain injury may occur in shallow waters.
Hint about my username: Art isn't easy. ___ is a major decision.


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Hello all I hope you have all been entering the giveaway in my last post. Well it is Sunday again I'm really getting fed up of watching the days go by and not achieving much, I know I have Jared and we do things and go places I just think I really need a job. We don't struggle on Liams wage, but I would like a job so I could earn so money so we can have luxuries like a car. We do want to buy our own home so if I get a job then that money can go towards a deposit or a holiday. A much needed holiday!! I haven't been on holiday since 2004, so it's about time I got one. I would love to go visit my aunt in Florida next year which is where I'm hoping we will go next October, any readers in Florida?? if you are a reader and live in sunny FL then please let me know and if I get over we could meet up for a chat and a coffee. My was over with my sisters yesterday so we nipped into town and I bought some new clothes as I had some money left on a gift card for new look, my mum got me some shoes which were a late prezzie for my birthday. I also got one of the Odd Thomas books (written by Dean Koontz) I had only read the first 3 I didn't know there was more mum bought Odd Apocalypse and I got Odd Hours just Odd Interlude (which I can not find) and one other to get as far as I know that will be all of them. I love his books there are so many that I need to read, the one I'm currently reading is a bit slow going and I wouldn't say it is the best but I'm going to give it a chance I just feel like it is a bit repetitive atm.
Anyone have any plans for this bank holiday?? I will be in Rothwell (not the alien place but sounds similar) they have some kind of fun day going on. Tombolas tombolas and more tombolas so I will be very skint after as they are my weakness I love them, I'm not sure why?! my Nan always used to give me money for them when I was little and I would always win (no as lucky anymore) maybe that is why I like them so much it is like a connected memory to my Nan. I enjoy these fates or fun days which ever you call them, the community get together and just enjoy themselves, kids can run about with face paint smeared across their faces and alcohol and chocolate is always won. I will take a day like that over a trip to a pub garden any day of the week. Have any of you been following the Berkshire Bloggers May Picture Challenge (#BBMPC on twitter)? there are plenty of us doing it, and it's not to late to join in. Well my lovely readers I'm off for now I have an essay to plan :-( see you all Tuesday xxx


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In addition to providing business machines which increase your print and copying efficiency, CSL can help future-proof your business with workflow management, archiving and print production software solutions. These applications allow increased control over print costs, manage and analyse network devices, reduce waste, move towards a paper-free office, create and manage an electronic library or archive and much more. Talk to us about:
At the core of the PageScope Enterprise Suite is a central database that handles all user and machine-related details. Its operation is web based via an intuitive graphic user interface. The monitoring and management functionality covers performance, cost control and rights administration for all registered users and connected output devices.
Produce reports which reveal equipment inefficiencies and bottlenecks then relocate your devices and redirect jobs to the most effective machine to ensure that the most efficient use of available resources. Notify users of costs to facilitate informed decision making to reduce waste and abuse of printing facilities.
PaperCut MF is a simple, low cost software application that lets you take control and manage your printers, copiers and multi-functional devices. PaperCut MF includes embedded software that runs on your copier / MFD to enable tracking, control and secure print release directly from the device's panel.
Connect to existing email, fax, cost recovery and other enterprise applications to combine advance scanning options with a reduction in the cost and time taken to distribute paper via traditional methods. Increase document security with encryption and audit trails with user authentication.Manage eCopy enabled devices centrally to minimise IT admin time.
For excellent colour calibration, consistent accurate colour across Fiery and non Fiery output devices and colour profiles that are fully compliant with Internal Colour Consortium (ICC) standards.
With PageScope Mobile, users can easily store and individually organise frequently needed documents on their smartphone or mobile device. This way, they are always prepared in case a hardcopy document is needed. Using "My documents" to store, manage and preview documents and photos on mobile devices, allows instant printing and scanning.
Centralises document archiving, removing the idiosyncrasies of independent, individual filing systems to reduce onsite storage, administration costs and resource overheads. Automatically indexes and files scanned documents and provides online access to documents in a secure environment for staff and clients.
Under the new i-Option umbrella Konica Minolta presents clever function enhancements for the bizhub product portfolio. The "i" in i-Option stands for such attractive attributes as innovative, interactive, and intelligent. i-Option is all about streamlining user operation and increasing convenience.
Nuance® eCopy® ShareScan® lets users scan documents securely and seamlessly via their multifunctional office systems into business applications that support electronic business processes. The software provides a consistent, easy-to-use interface across any capture device, promoting user adoption and increasing the value of enterprise hardware and business software investments.
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As a straightforward desktop document management solution, the Unity Document Suite supports office workers in creating, organising, combining, splitting, searching and converting PDF and other files. The user-friendly suite of three applications integrates fully into existing business processes. The application is of particular interest for users in corporate offices who work with multifunctional printers (MFPs) and want to optimise document workflows.
In today's competitive market, documents must provide more data, graphics, and bright, crisp colour. EFI® Colour Profiler delivers a key tool for getting the best colour out of your printing workflow and ensuring consistent, accurate colour across output devices. This seamlessly integrated solution offers all the necessary tools to creating colour profiles and the flexibility to deploy them in any workflow.
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This is a professional software solution allowing organisations to maintain and grow their customer base by adding value to business documents and distributing them in a format that best suits the recipient's preferences. Its ease of use, affordability and open architecture make it the perfect solution to quickly and easily enhance, produce and distribute documents with relevant content that is sure to capture the reader's attention and get the message across.


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Miley Cyrus did it again—she still has us talking, tweeting, and writing about her most recent performance. This time, rather than shocking us with sexy time and barely-there clothing (well, I guess this kitty bikini is pretty teeny), Miley rocked the Nokia Theatre as well as the entire Internet with a lip-synching cat that shed diamond tears at the American Music Awards on Sunday night. It seems so obvious now that the only thing more viral than miss Miley is cats doing cute things. So there you have it, the perfect formula for TOTAL WORLD DOMINATION.
Follow Hallie Gould on Twitter.


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Nowadays, there are so many options available. You can endow a designer and fashionable it to male, because they are especially fond of designer jewellery and new type of fashion jewelry such their wardrobes and shoes. Now you can easily find all kind of designer jewelry and all type of designer brands. There are so many online websites available, where you can find all kind of jewellery. They provide all kind of jewellery in reasonable prices and they have lots of verities.
If most of us appreciate the low cost of silver, some women still look for the most expensive earrings in the world. Of course those can be found in Hollywood's, preferred jeweler to the stars, Harry Winston's store.
As a teacher and a reader and a writer, I am always learning. It is something that i crave and dive into with both feet. I love psychology and all that it entails. A huge part of my learning and growing comes from watching, observing, and listening to people. Human behavior is so linked to the mind and to our childhood programming, it is amazing. I can watch and listen to someone and know a whole lot about their childhood without asking any questions.
Harry Winston is known as the jeweler to the stars. Every year Harry Winston lends out hundreds of millions of dollars worth of jewelry to stars to wear at the Oscars. In 2006 Harry Winston created a pair of diamond earrings consisting of two pear-shaped diamonds in a platinum setting totaling 60.1 carats. Buying the world's most expensive earrings will cost you .5 million.
Of course, women love diamonds. But they also have an innate sense of style. That is why they wear earrings that suit the occasion and their dress. If it's a formal event, like a day at the office, you would find her in a pair of simple yet striking studs, just enough to call attention to the sophisticated elegance of the diamond earring without being overbearing in any way. In case of a corporate party, she may opt for a larger pair of studs, may be with pearls and diamonds. This time, the idea is to draw attention to the rock and tell others that here is a woman of means! Obviously, diamond studs are an indispensable part of her jewelry collection and every woman should have 2-3 pairs that she can wear according to the occasion.
MM: You've designed engagement rings for today's hottest stars like Kat von D and Jessica Simpson. Both rings have that Neil Lane sense of glamour – but at the same time capture their very unique personalities. What's your secret?
To get rid of a tired look brush some highlighter under the end of your eyebrows and where your eyelid closes in on your nose. This will give your face a more youthful appearance. Guys should make sure they are shaved and trimmed in whatever style they like-its best not to look sloppy.


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The image that usually springs to mind when you think of the perfect honeymoon is probably along the lines of lying on a golden sandy beach shaded by palm trees, overlooking clear blue waters as you sip a Pina Colada next to your newly wed.
However whilst Bora Bora, Fiji or The Bahamas are all popular and wonderful destinations for you to kick back and relax as you celebrate the union of your new marriage, this type of honeymoon isn't for everyone.
The accommodation is obviously an important part of the trip that you want to get spot on, however there are plenty of other ways that you can spend your honeymoon and perhaps do something a little different to the conventional beach holiday.
Therefore let's take a look at what some of the alternative options for your honeymoon suite could be in order to help ensure that your honeymoon is as special and memorable as possible.
If you're looking for the ultimate romantic getaway, then it doesn't get much better than sleeping under the stars.
Although you might be opposed to spending your honeymoon on a camping site which we understand isn't for everyone, glamping makes a fantastic alternative for a slightly more interesting getaway with your loved one.
We're not talking about pitching a tent in the rain and sitting next a camp fire heating up baked beans in a pan, but glamping helps to combine luxury outdoor living so that you can enjoy fantastic countryside whilst also being comfortable.
From shepherd's huts to yurts and even tree houses, there are plenty of glamping options to suit your preferences. For example Long Valley Yurts located in Cumbria could offer you a glamorous camping experience and is also fabulously situated close to the Lake District giving you plenty of options to explore the fantastic scenery and really embrace the outdoors.
However if you're looking for a warmer destination but still like the idea of trying your hand at glamping, then the benefit of glamping is that it is worldwide and gives you the opportunity of going on holiday whilst reconnecting with nature. Take a look at Bridal Guide's article highlighting The Most Luxurious Glamping Honeymoons.
A Cruise
A cruise is something that you might not have considered before, but honeymoon cruises are the perfect way for you to escape all of the post-wedding hustle and bustle and enjoy some quality time as a couple.
If you're still looking for a tropical getaway, then cruises do offer the opportunity for you to visit a number of beautiful destinations meaning that you still have the flexibility to choose exactly where you would like to go.
Many cruises also offer special packages for newly weds adding a romantic touch for your holiday. For example Princess Cruises Honeymoon Celebration Package includes a bottle of champagne with engraved souvenir glasses, flowers, a framed formal portrait and chocolates. You can upgrade the honeymoon package even further and enjoy a visit to their Lotus Spa, champagne breakfast in bed and even a personalized invitation from the Captain for you to visit the bridge while in port.
Choosing the right cruise for you may take a bit of research depending on what you're wanting to do whilst you're away, but the benefit is that they are often more hassle free and sometimes even cheaper than traditional holidays. Head to Cruise Critic to find out about making the most of your cruise trip and tips for what to do whilst you're away.
A City Break
Peaceful and remotely located holidays aren't for everyone, therefore if you'd prefer a honeymoon escape where there is a bit more going then a city break could make a great alternative for your honeymoon.
However just because you aren't located on a remote beach front with miles of sandy beaches and waters surrounding you, this doesn't mean that your accommodation should be anything less than luxurious for your city break honeymoon.
Apartments are great alternatives to hotels as you have the benefit of having being more spacious for you to enjoy and make the most of, for example most apartments will include cooking facilities and have a lounge area so that you have the option of spending more time in your apartment as opposed to escaping your hotel room at the fist opportunity.
Clarendon London offer a variety of stylish accommodation in London, throughout the UK and across the world, therefore if you have a city in mind that you're keen to visit but are still looking to secure the perfect accommodation for your holiday, then Clarendon could be the perfect solution for hassle free, luxurious accommodation.
Your honeymoon destination doesn't necessarily have to be outside the UK, therefore why not think of keeping it local and renting out a lodge for your honeymoon getaway?
Located all over the UK, lodges and holiday cottages can offer you the perfect escape to experience a new location whilst staying in luxurious self catered accommodation.
Not only do you have the flexibility of being situated throughout the UK and avoid the hassle of having to book flights and transfers, but the advantage of lodges is that you can choose how long you would like to go for.
If you are more limited for time, then you can often book lodge accommodation for long weekends and you won't loose out on travelling time and waste time feeling jet lagged and drowsy during your time away.
Your honeymoon is a chance for you to spend some quality time as a newly wed couple, therefore a luxury lodge situated in a secluded location such as Log House Holidays is the perfect way for you to enjoy a memorable and romantic stay.
Each of the Log House Holiday cabins located on a stunning nature reserve in the Cotswolds includes a lakeside hot tub, traditional log fire and Irish loch boat.
Therefore if you love the outdoors and would enjoy opting for accommodation with more privacy and serenity, then lodge style accommodation could be the perfect choice of honeymoon suite for you!
The type of honeymoon suite that you decide on is down to your personal preference and what you would like to do whilst you are away. If a quieter setting giving you the opportunity to mix with nature is for you, then glamping or a lodge style accommodation could be the one for you, yet if you would prefer to be amongst the hustle and bustle of city life and mingle with other people, then a city break or cruise are also great alternatives.


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Precision Perlite
Out of stock
This coarse, yet lightweight volcanic rock is perfect for starting seeds, rooting cuttings or adding aeration to any growing medium. Aurora Innovations Precision Perlite has the advantage of being graded by size to give growers options for improving soil texture.
• Lightweight, natural soil amendment
• Increases water retention and airflow in soil
• Sterile growing medium for seed starting and rooting cuttings
• Registered Organic Input material
• Grade: Coarse Horticultural (#4)
Grower's Tip:
Add generously to your favorite growing mix or potting soil to make a lightweight, well-drained medium for containers.


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Fire Damage Repair ^1500 Water Damage Repair ^1500 Storm Damage Repair ^1500 Hail Damage Repair ^1500
Faulkner Restoration offers a full line of local disaster recovery and restoration solutions. Experiencing a disaster can have a devastating impact on your daily life. Picking the right partner to navigate you through the recovery process can make an otherwise difficult time more manageable.
Faithfully Restoring Lives and Homes for over 20 Years.
Should a disaster strike, Faulkner Restoration can provide full-service emergency response and restoration services. A disaster doesn't have to be a large catastrophic event like a tornado. It can be something unforeseen like a burst pipe in your basement.
Faulkner Restoration has been faithfully restoring lives and homes for over 20 years. We want to be the best Water Damage Cleanup, and Fire Damage Restoration company serving central Indiana. With sufficient planning and preparation, your loss of time and property damage can be minimized.
Faulkner Restoration provides a comprehensive portfolio of cleaning, maintenance and restoration services for commercial operations. From water and flood damage, to fire and construction services our commercial restoration specialists will be there every step of the way.
- Emergency Response
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When disaster strikes your business, every hour spent on recovery could negatively impact your revenue opportunities. That's why fast and efficient disaster cleanup is crucial. With adequate planning and preparation, a facility's downtime and subsequent impact on revenue can be minimized.
Over 20 years of experience has allowed us to develop a seamless claims management solution. Our certified insurance specialists will work hand-in-hand with your adjuster to settle your claim. Together, we will determine the scope of work needed to repair the damages. We will complete all repairs to put your property back together safely and efficiently.
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Faulkner Restoration is the preferred choice of leading insurance carriers in Greenwood, Plainfield, and surrounding areas. We will always be truthful about whether repairs are actually needed. We do this to maintain our certifications as well as to operate Faulkner Restoration with integrity.


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Print Homemade pesto
If your basil's fresh enough, your homemade pesto will far more vibrant than the shop-bought kind. Pour a little oil over the top of your jar, store it in the fridge, and you can keep summer's taste saved up for months. You can make it in two ways: in a pestle and mortar, which is satisfying but arduous, or in a food processor. Toss with pasta, marinade meat and veg, spread on sandwiches...
Key facts
- Preparation time
- 10 mins
- Cooking time
- 0 mins
- Total time
- 10 mins
- Serves
- 100g pine nuts, toasted in a dry frying pan until golden
- 2-3 garlic cloves, depending on size, finely chopped
- 200g fresh basil leaves
- 250ml olive oil, plus an extra 50ml or so, depending on how thick you want the pesto
- 100g Parmesan, finely grated
- Lemon juice, to taste
- Salt & pepper
- To make in a pestle and mortar: Grind the pine nuts and garlic with a good pinch of salt. Add the basil and 2 tablespoons of olive oil and pound to break up the basil leaves. Gradually add a little more oil, a little at a time. Add the Parmesan, lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste. Check the consistency and add a little more oil to loosen the pesto if you like.
- To make in a food processor: Blitz the pine nuts with the basil and Parmesan, gradually adding the oil to make a paste. Squeeze in lemon juice and season to taste.
- Keep in the fridge, making sure the leaves are covered with a layer of olive oil or they will blacken. Or freeze in small tubs or bags.


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Started this discussion. Last reply by Calie Gihl Jul 21, 2017. 1 Reply 0 Likes
Hi,I am having consistency issues while looking at Daylighting Results in Rhino, using Diva.For a building, two regularly occupied rooms were analyzed using the LEED v4 and sDA analysis in DIVA…Continue
Tags: LEED, DIVA, Rhino, Daylighting


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-Fruit juices & purees
-Fruit preparations / syrups / sauces for dairy & other applications
-Australian Pineapple Juice and Crush
-Aseptic Australian Kensington Pride Mango puree
We hope you enjoy browsing our site and more importantly, continue enjoying our premium products
Tropico has been working with key vegetable suppliers in the Queensland regions, exploring the range of cucumber varieties, in order to create new vegetable lines for our customers to ennhance their beverage and savoury offerings.
Tropico has significant capability in the area of stabilised fruit preparations. Most of our fruit preps are used in dairy application, such as yoghurt or ice-cream, but we can design products for many applications. We have access to a wide range of fruits and ingredients so can make anything from a chocolate orange syrup to a tangy passionfruit fruit preparation.


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PREPARING FOR D-Day
When I first found out I was pregnant, I was filled with both excitement and trepidation. The excitement was obvious, but the trepidation arose when I thought of the birth process. Images of women screaming in agony flashed across my mind.
I didn't attend any birth class with my first child, didn't know what to expect and felt rushed through the process. I was told (wrongly by the nurses in Hong Kong) to start pushing at 8 cm dilated. I was too exhausted by the time I was fully dilated to push.
Luckily, the baby rotated (more in section on Spinning Babies) and slid out. With my second child, I was determined to enjoy the birth and savour every moment. There are so much more about the birth process that cannot be covered sufficiently in most pregnancy textbooks or generic hospital ante-natal classes and I know a specialized childbirth class would be necessary for me.
Birth Classes
There are three (3) popular methods that each teaches a particular method of childbirth. They are not exhaustive, but they are the more commonly known ones.
A. The Bradley Method
The Bradley Method starts off with the idea that childbirth can be a natural process, and with the right preparation, most women can achieve a drug-free and intervention-free childbirth. The programme teaches the importance of diet, exercise during pregnancy, teaches deep breathing techniques to manage pain and involve a birth partner (spouse) as an integral participant in the birth process.
B. The Lamaze Method
The Lamaze method offers simple and practical advice for women to cope and comfort themselves during childbirth. The Lamaze philosophy is about empowering women to work with their body's natural ability for a natural, drug-free birth without medical intervention.
C. HypnoBirthing – The Mongan Method
HypnoBirthing is about positive affirmation (or self-hypnosis), visualization, deep relaxation to expect and achieve a serene and comfortable birth. The preference is on achieving a natural birth, but the philosophy and ultimate objective is to achieve the serene birth that women desire. In a nutshell, HypnoBirthing is akin to using Law of Attraction to create and achieve the birth you desire, and using positive affirmation for pain management.
HypnoBirthing is the only one of the three (in above list) that is available in Malaysia. When I was pregnant with my second child, the number of HypnoBirthing instructors was limited in Malaysia. It felt to me there was some overlapping between Lamaze and HypnoBirthing. Many instructors were offering HypnoBirthing method but infusing Lamaze philosophy.
There are other, less well-known methods locally (such as Amani birth) but HypnoBirthing remains the most popular choice of birth preparation class. In the last two years, the supply of Hypnobirthing instructors in Malaysia has increased significantly to meet the demand.
Daphne Lee-Yang, a popular Hypnobirthing practitioner, shares that her students are parents who could be expecting their first or even third child. Their motivation to attend the class is to dispel the fear about childbirth, seek better control of the birth process and achieve the desired birth outcome.
In her HynoBirthing class, one can expect the following taught in a format of five, 2.5 hours classes:
- Learn self-hypnosis and breathing techniques to achieve and maintain deep levels of relaxation
- Use visualisation, affirmations, fear release and self-hypnosis to positively reposition birth mentally
- Education about normal, healthy pregnancy, labour & birth, and practical physical approaches to birthing effectively
Baby Positioning
In most of the pregnancy books I bought, the coverage on labour and birth was brief, disproportionate relative to the rest of the book. It wasn't until I came across the website, Spinning Babies, that I had an epiphany. A smooth and pleasant birth can be achieved, but it would not be luck of the draw.
Spinning Babies educates one about the optimal foetus position within the uterus to make a smooth debut. The contractions from a body help the baby to rotate and deliver the baby through the birth canal. On Spinning Babies, I learn that head down is not enough, and that the baby should have his chin tucked, the baby's back is to the mother's left or directly in front (occiput anterior) to minimize the pain during labour.
I learn that our modern lifestyle with less physical activities and more slouching encourages the baby into a less optimal position within the uterus, reducing the probability of a natural birth.
Birth Plan
As we realise, there are many steps during the course of pregnancy we could take to increase the chance of a good birth outcome. The finishing touch would be to put these preferences down and articulate these to your birth plan. You would share the birth plan with your obstetrician who would work with you to achieve your desired birth.
There are subtle but distinct differences in these three birth classes. If I could choose freely, I would go with the Bradley Method in a heartbeat as the all-rounded curriculum resonates most with me. Throughout both my pregnancies, I swam, practised yoga, ate nutritiously and mindfully maintained good posture.
I felt HypnoBirthing certainly did help me a relaxed, serene and pain-free birth. I have always likened childbirth to race day of a marathon. We have the whole of pregnancy to prepare for an awesome race, we should definitely prepare for it but expect to go with the flow.


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The Canon Law Society of Australia and New Zealand began - as do many good things - in the late night conversation of good friends with a common interest. It began in Rome about 1960 in St. Peter's College, that forcing house of canonists in the days before Vatican II. In 1956 Owen Oxenham, John Clarke and I, newly-arrived innocents abroad, went to call on Archbishop Sigismondi, Secretary of Propaganda. He asked what we intended to study. In the manner of canon lawyers of the time Owen and John announced confidently that they were there for law. I was amused and a little puzzled when Sigismondi demanded : "Why do people come here from all over the world to study the Gospel of Gasparri and not the Gospel of Jesus Christ?"
Three of those who were to do much to change that situation were Owen, Joe O'Connell and Ron Mulkearns. In the course of his thesis research Owen came across the Canon Law Society of America. He proposed to the others that we could benefit from a similar society in our part of the world. They agreed and many nights were given to examining the idea and determining its functions and features. There is a great leap in faith from student vision to professional action. Eventually all three returned to Australia. When they met, Owen still spoke of the need for the society. Eventually Ron asked, in his forthright way, why he did not do something about it. Stirred, Owen returned to Brisbane and leapt into action. Anyone who has seen his formidable organizing abilities engaged will not be surprised that the Canon Law Society was born. With the aid of the late Frank Douglas and Miss Joan Lane, he set about finding the raw material of the Society - and very raw some of it was. They went through the Catholic Directory to search for anyone with a degree in Canon Law. Despite the universal Gospel of Gasparri, there were not enough to form a solid group. They extended their list to include all Marriage Tribunal members, seminary lecturers and holders of degrees of any kind. A number of things were illustrated in this decision - the intention to combine the professional with the practical, the breadth of vision which saw that Law did not exist in an ecclesial vacuum.
The result was a questionnaire sent 17 October 1966 to 165 possible starters, all clerics. Of these 42 had degrees in Canon Law, including a few Baccalaureates. There were 44 with other degrees, mainly ecclesiastical. Others , mainly tribunal functionaries, numbered 54. (The inconsistency of the numbers is explained by the fact that some, like the author, were approached personally, not by mail.) All were asked if they thought a society were desirable, what its aims should be, whether they were willing to belong to it, where and when the first meeting should be. There were 65 returned questionnaires. The answers revealed much about the condition of the Australian Church and of canonical practice in the year after the conclusion of the Second Vatican Council.
A number recognised that professional expertise had to break out of the seminaries. The obvious move was to the tribunals. No further need was mentioned. There were a few recognitions that the orientation should be pastoral, Kevin Barry-Cotter picked up a principal theme of Vatican II, suggesting that the aim should be service of each other and of the Church. Kevin pointed to another consequence of the Council which Australia and New Zealand were slow to take up - the need to make our distinctive contribution to our own life in the Church and to that of the universal Church. We were always looking to what others did and imitating it. He noted that, while we had been a testing ground of much contemporary missionary law, we were still a silent voice in the Church. The experience of more developed associations, like the Canon Law Society of America, was seen as a model, but few had significant knowledge of them. The almost unthinkable revision of the Code was mentioned, but it was difficult to imagine contribution to it. The state of mind was optimistic, practical, but largely blank. Of the 65 respondents 53 assembled in the New Farm Hall in Brisbane 19-22 June , 1967 for the constituent assembly, which became the inaugural meeting of the Canon Law Society of Australia. That makes this 1991 meeting the twenty-fifth. The representation was wide. One bishop came, through two left, F. Carroll being called to the Delegation from the Hall. There were 12 Religious and representatives of 14 dioceses, 5 in Queensland, 4 in NSW, 2 in W.A., 1 each in Victoria, S.A., Tasmania and ACT. One of the Religious, B. Courtenay, C.M., whose early death was a loss to the Society, came from Mosgiel, N.Z. Among the diocesans present Brisbane naturally had the highest number - 12 - but there were 7 from Sydney and 4 from Melbourne. From there Joe O'Connell, Ron Mulkearns, Frank Harman and Harry Jordan MSC came together by car, a travelling synod in themselves. Of the total numbers 26, almost exactly half, had Canon Law degrees, mostly doctorates.
The above is an extract from the presentation by Rev Dr Thomas Boland D.Eccl.Hist. at the twenty-fifth Annual Conference of the Society, September 1991, "Canon Law Society: 1967-1991 An Historical Perspective".
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Our beautiful little girl, Jessica Rose got diagnosed with a craniopharyngioma on the 10th March 2011. That date will hunt me for the rest of my life. The sadness, the hurt and confusing I felt that day is something I will never ever forget.
A craniopharyngioma is a benign brain tumour situated in the pituitary field. We rejoiced at the fact that her tumour was not cancerous, however we have recently been informed that this tumour can act as deadly as cancer. In Jessica's case, it is fast growing and without the aid or radiotherapy she will die! Our brave little solider has undergone 4 major operations, one lasting 8 hours (don't know how I got through that day) and we are currently waiting to hear if Jess will get funding for proton therapy in the states. Proton Therapy is a type of radiotherapy which is currently not available in the UK. The chief advantage of proton therapy is the ability to more precisely localise the radiation dosage when compared with other types of external beam radiotherapy. This however will not cure Jessica, but slow the growth down. And we just pray to God, that radiotherapy combined with operations we will be able to keep her tumour under control and stop cysts forming off her tumour.
Any parent reading this may be thinking how the hell are we coping. The fact of the matter is…we don't, but we have to. We just need to look at Jessica for inspiration. Jess is getting on with her life, I mean, you didn't think a brain tumour would slow her down did you? Even after major brain surgery she is up wanting to play and eating her marmite on toast, and wondering what the fuss is all about. She amazes us and her medical team every single day. I wish I could be more like her.
Radiotherapy can change a child's life forever, especially on the brain. It may slow/stop the growth of a tumour and in some lucky cases destroy it, but it may come with life changing consequences. In Jessica's case we have been warned that she may lose her eye sight again and have learning difficulties, there are other risks attached but I would be here all day listing them all. Because of where her tumour is situated the radiation will all most definitely destroy her pituitary gland. She will need meds for the rest of her life to work as her pituitary gland. The simple things like growing won't happen unless she has hormone injections every single day. In the grand scheme of things, we can live with this, as long as we have our little girl with us, it really doesn't matter what medication she has to take each day. It will become part of her routine, and because she is so young, she really won't know any different. I don't know if that is a good or bad thing. Guess it is pretty sad.
The support from all our dearest family and friends has truly been amazing. We are very lucky to have a great bunch like you guys. You have helped us raise thousands of pounds towards Jessica's treatment and rehabilitation. You have been there when I needed to chat or cry (wish someone was here now, I cannot type through my tears). So just a quick few thank yous. My girlfriends for taking me out when I needed cheering up. Zanne's patrons, was a great way to forget about this nightmare I'm living (think I lost three hours of my life that night). Fiona should win women of the year for organising our successful fundraiser £13K….YOU GO GIRL! Brandy for her delicious supply of yummy cupcakes, Nikki Power for my lovely manicures, Eveline for the yummy lunches, fun days out at Odds farm and for getting rid of some of that tension in my neck, Chrissie and Dan for treating me to a day at the races. Wicked afternoon! To all of you who donated/attended Jessica's fundraiser in May. To all our family who took the time and effort to come visit us whilst we were in hospital, you were a great support!
And most importantly to Ben, you have been my rock! We make a great team and I truly don't know how I would have got through all this without you. You have been a star. Jess is so lucky to have a Daddy like you.
Right – back to business. So the aim of this page is so that you can all follow Jessica's journey ahead. I will update the wall so you can all see what is going on. It will be a great way to stay in contact whilst we spend 8 weeks in America for Jessica's treatment. I will post pictures and updates every now and then so you can keep an eye on Jessica's progress.
And one last thing, I know I say it all the time, but please keep Jess in your thoughts and prayers. We want lots of positive energy heading our way!!
Mum, Samantha Ward.
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Sony Focuses on 3D
Sony is emphasising the importance of 3DTV to broadcast manufacturers with the arrival of new professional cameras and other production tools to enable 3D live production. According to Sony, it is now in the unique position of offering a complete end-to-end 3D production chain.
"Sony is committed to delivering 3D throughout the content value chain and today's news is yet another endorsement of that," commented Naomi Climer, vice president Sony Europe. "There are always barriers to entry with any new technology, these new product and solutions announcements help drive out many of the technical and cost issues that were stopping live 3D from becoming a reality."
First up, the new 2/3 inch HDC-P1 box style camera delivers the equivalent picture performance of the HDC-1500, but within a compact body, which is ideal for mounting on a 3D rig. It integrates into the current control system and provides a cost-effective solution for dual-camera acquisition.
Capturing a live event in 3D poses a number of creative challenges to successfully manage the 3D image and ensure viewers are not left feeling nauseous. In response to this, Sony Professional has developed the new '3D Processor Box'. While still only at the technology demonstration stage, the box can deliver camera pair alignment and correct for errors introduced in the rig, including image geometry and colour matching. It offers the stereographic engineers another option to manage alignment in addition to mechanical alignment rigs to enable the control of live 3D content capture.
Completing the 3D production chain for the company, the MVS-8000G vision mixer offers dual stream switching and can treat a 3D camera pair as a single source. For recording, the SRW-5800 is unique in the market, delivering direct dual stream recording, which is essential for 3D capture. At the entry-level, the SRW-5100 also provides this ability.
Lastly, the company is also showcasing two prototype 3D monitors, which deliver the final link in the production chain. Announcements on the availability of 3D monitors are expected in 2010.
Source: TVB Europe


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Today, a new toy arrived for the cats. It's the Cat Toy Catit Senses Food Maze. It looks pretty space age and I was worried the cats might just ignore it but it was an instant hit. It's a toy that gets cats thinking and is a great way to give them biscuits so that they eat them slowly. Arty especially likes to eat his food so fast and then moments later is meowing for more. I put a handful of biscuits in the top of this and it took him a good twenty minutes or so to eat them all and it looked like he was having fun. They have to move the biscuits down through three levels before they fall out of the bottom into the dish.
Arty worked it out straight away and he was so cute to watch.
Pixie wasn't that interested to start with but she's not as in love with food as Arty is.
She soon got the hang of it though.
Being the clever one she realised it was easier to get the biscuits this way. I think it could do with a lid!
Oscar was too busy sleeping to try it out.
All in all I think it's a great way to occupy cats, especially if they get bored easily or wolf their food down too quickly. I'm not sure I would pay the full price for it though (I got a very good deal).
(Note, also in the pictures is theCat Toy Catit Senses Speed Circuit which isn't included with the feeder)


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We understand sometimes you need a home inspection done fast or during times that are not considered convenient. That's why our Real Estate agent customers love us!
If you ever find yourself in a bind and needing a home inspection, you can count on us!
Your clients depend on you to make the home purchase a smooth experience. They expect your team of experts to be professional and reliable. When the closing date nears, you want someone you can turn to who will get the job done at a moment's notice. But just as important is that the inspection is thorough and complete.
Another great job with my (First Time) Home Buyers. Ken understands building and construction and at the same time he understands what is going on in the minds of first time home buyers. I never have to worry about Ken using "scare tactics" or trying to impress folks with knowledge that doesn't necessarily apply to the situation with which we are confronted. Ken shares information that is useful in the real world and makes sure they understand the points that should not be overlooked as well as makes sure that the items that are simply for them to "keep on their radar" don't become overblown in their minds. This is crucial for folks who may be getting a rude introduction to home care all at once. They are searching for things they can understand and grasp and sometimes just "lock in" on things that truly are inconsequential. Thanks for a great job once again!
Ken is very knowledgeable, thorough, diplomatic, considerate, flexible and efficient. He adheres to the highest standards of integrity, has a great sense of humor, and provides a great value. His reports include video links explaining FAQs and showing how homeowners can easily repair many commonly found items on inspections. Even though he has been building/repairing homes for 60 years, he always wants to know more, and is happy to look up topics where he thinks his answer is less complete than it could be. His paramount objective is helping prospective homebuyers know what they are getting in a home, what to worry about, and what to not worry about. I am confident that, if you hire him, you'll be very happy with the results.
Kenneth brings a unique perspective to the table. As a former Real Estate Broker - Ken knows how to communicate with my clients and level with them on any concerns he may discover - while not scaring them half to death. This is very important when clients are considering an older home (which may very well have some serious issues). He has "bailed me out" on more than one occasion when I needed a home inspected on a tight time frame. Always careful and observant - he hasn't missed anything yet! Thanks for superior work at a reasonable price Ken!!


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« Religious Expression in Texas | Main | Measuring Learning Growth »
Civil Rights and NCLB
The No Child Left Behind Act does little to ensure educational equity for English-language learners, James Crawford writes in this Education Week commentary.
Because their test scores are used to determine schools' adequate yearly progress, he says, ELLs spend far too much class time on basic reading and mathematics, test preparation, and English-only instruction, while their more-advantaged peers are free to study a broad array of subjects and participate in academic activities such as field trips and the arts.
"In numerous ways, No Child Left Behind is increasing the achievement gap," Mr. Crawford writes, "if academic achievement is understood as getting an all-round education and, with it, an equal chance to succeed in life."
What do you think? Does the NCLB law stress equal test results at the expense of equal educational opportunity?


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Coolest Creative Birthday Cake Ideas and Photos
Cake by Trina E., Naivasha, Kenya
I made this creative birthday cake as a simple spice cake for a close friend who believe it or not loves his "fry up" breakfast! I iced the cake with "fluffy icing" made with caster sugar and egg white. I then made the plate out of pastillage moulded over a real plate and painted the design around the edge once it had dried.
The bacon, eggs, sausage and tomatoes and tomato sauce I made with homemade fondant icing which I then painted. The bacon was first cut into the bacon slices and then I added strips of varying Bacon colors as the streaks in the bacon. The "topping" was then placed onto the top of the cake.
Seeing as I was looking for a free cake recipe, I got the idea from a picture in a cake book by Jane Asher. The "birthday Boy" still has the topping as a keepsake which was the best compliment I could have received.


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Attis to Provide Project Update During Presentation at Biorenewable Deployment Consortium
Opportunity to collaborate with industry experts in the biomass conversion to high value product market
MILTON, GA, March 12, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE -- Attis Industries Inc. (NASDAQ: ATIS) (the "Company" or "Attis"), a diversified innovation and technology holding company, announced that it will be attending and presenting at the Biorenewable Deployment Consortium ("BDC") today in Jacksonville, FL.
This will be the fourth time that Attis has attended the BDC and the third time as a presenter. Attis is looking forward to providing an update on its various projects and technologies to a very well attended conference that focuses primarily on the valorization of biomass across multiple markets. Attis plans to provide an update on its recently announced planned acquisition of the Sunoco LP corn ethanol plant in Fulton, NY as well as its biorefinery project in Barnesville, GA.
The BDC is the perfect opportunity for Attis to discuss its suite of biomass conversion technologies, specific project updates and end product market development. Year after year, the BDC continues to draw some of the industry's most influential minds with regards to the valorization of biomass and its various constituents. Attis welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with industry experts and looks forward to receiving input and new perspectives from the attendees.
"We are always eager to participate in conferences like the Biorenewable Deployment Consortium," stated Jeff Cosman, Attis Industries CEO. "Conferences like the BDC are a fantastic opportunity to partake in discussions that directly impact one of Attis' core business segments. The conference format and level of competency of its attendees presents a great chance for Attis to gather alternative perspectives and network with numerous potential customers and partners."
Presenting at the conference will be Attis' VP of Marketing, Chris Kennedy. Mr. Kennedy is a 15-year veteran of the renewable fuels industry and works closely with senior management on the development of Attis' various biorefinery projects and end product market development.
Attis Industries, Inc.
Attis Industries Inc. (NASDAQ: ATIS) is a diversified innovation and technology holding company focused on developing and building businesses that play important roles in the new economy. We strive to encourage our employees to be entrepreneurs focused on innovation and technology. We will remain dynamic, persistent and motivated to our mission of winning. The growth of our company will rely on our integrity and our vision for the future. Today, each of Attis business sectors provide high growth opportunities that collectively account for more than a third of our nation's GDP. For more information, visit: www.attisind.com
Forward-Looking Statements
Any statements contained in this press release that do not describe historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify forward-looking statements by words such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "plan," "should," "would" or similar words. You should consider these statements carefully because they discuss our plans, targets, strategies, prospects and expectations concerning our business, operating results, financial condition and other similar matters. These statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, but not limited to, risks and uncertainties relating to the Company's ability to develop, market and sell products based on its technology; the expected benefits and efficacy of the Company's products and technology; the availability of substantial additional funding for the Company to continue its operations and to conduct research and development, clinical studies and future product commercialization; and, the Company's business, research, product development, regulatory approval, marketing and distribution plans and strategies; the ability of the Company to continue to meet the listing requirements of NASDAQ; the ability of the Company to execute on a business plan that permits the technologies and innovations businesses to provide sufficient growth, revenue, liquidity and cash flows for sustaining the Company's go-forward business, and the risks identified and discussed under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Attis Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on April 16, 2018 and the other documents Attis files with the SEC from time to time. There will be events in the future, however, that Attis is not able to predict accurately or control. Attis's actual results may differ materially from the expectations that Attis describes in its forward-looking statements. Factors or events that could cause Attis's actual results to materially differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Attis to accurately predict all of them. Any forward-looking statement made by Attis in this press release speaks only as of the date on which Attis makes it. Attis undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
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Mother's Day 2010
I have something to say about Mother's Day…. It's important to mothers. It has significance that anyone who isn't a mother will not understand. Let me try to make it clear to you why you don't want to forget Mother's Day.
Your mother fell in love with you probably before you were born. She would throw herself under a train for you and would gladly give you all of her organs if you need them. While she was raising you and even to this day if she's still alive, the sacrifices she has made for you can't be counted. Except by your mom. She has a ledger in her head that keeps a running total of all the sacrifices. She wants you to realize how hard it was to raise you, and she wants you to be incredibly grateful. You can show your gratitude by always remembering and honoring her on Mother's Day. Truly, mothers are sometimes realistic and don't expect much. A card that isn't late is very much appreciated. If you write a sweet note in that card she will cry tears of joy. Anything more than a card is bonus points.
Woe be unto you if you forget or are late. Your thoughtlessness will be entered into the Book of Shame. Mothers don't forget Mothers Day slights. If you forget her on her big day (bigger than her birthday) her feelings will be badly hurt. She will know that she isn't important to you if you can't take a few minutes out of your busy life to remember her and honor her. You might as well just tell her flat-out that everything she's done for you means nothing to you. She might say "oh, that's ok, I know you're busy" but that isn't what she's really thinking. She's really wracking her brain, trying to remember what in the world she could have done to make you hate her so much.
A word to the wise. Let your mom know that you're happy she's your mom.
I lost my mom 20 years ago. I still miss her and I think of her especially on Sundays, because we used to talk by phone every Sunday. She died suddenly and unexpectedly just a couple of hours after one of our Sunday chats.
This picture was taken when Mother was 23 years old. I think she was beautiful. I'm glad I spoke to her often (she lived across the country) and I always remembered Mothers Day. Really!


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Vincent Aveni
Mcfarland High Mcfarland, CA Class of 1945
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