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Date: September 18, 2003
Location: RBC Center, Raleigh, North Carolina
Commentators: Michael Cole, Tazz
It's a big show here with Brock Lesnar vs. Kurt Angle in a one hour Iron Man match. What else can you really ask for here? These two are capable of putting together any kind of match you want them to and here they'll have a chance to showcase whatever they want. The rest of the show….does it really matter? Let's get to it.
Vince welcomes us to the show and hypes up the main event. Undertaker comes in to say he won't interfere tonight but he's not going to forget Vince sending Brock out to interrupt his title match. Better than him wanting the next title match at least.
Opening sequence.
Cole calls this the season premiere of Smackdown. They did that with the Billy and Chuck wedding episode so I guess we have a tradition.
Rey Mysterio/Chris Benoit vs. Rhyno/Tajiri
Tajiri gets a Cruiserweight Title shot next week. Benoit shoulders Tajiri down to start and snaps off some of those loud chops. Tajiri is right back with the Tarantula and a non-existent tag brings in Rhyno for a spinebuster. A clothesline gets Benoit out of trouble though and the hot tag brings in Mysterio with the springboard seated senton. Everything breaks down and Mysterio rolls the German suplexes on Tajiri. Rey hits the 619 on Rhyno, setting up the springboard legdrop for the pin.
Rating: D+. This didn't have the time to go anywhere and it didn't really accomplish much as Rey and Tajiri didn't interact all that much. The action was good while it lasted though, which isn't all that surprising given the four people involved. Thankfully it seems that Rhyno vs. Benoit is done though, which should be the case after last week.
Shaniqua vs. Torrie Wilson/Nidia
It's a double team to start with Shaniqua actually being knocked outside, which is a lot more success than I was expecting. Shaniqua remembers that she's fighting Torrie and Nidia though and it's a double clothesline to take them down in short order. Torrie gets thrown outside and a powerbomb ends Nidia in short order. Keeping this short was the only option they could have had.
Dawn Marie comes out to check on her friends and gets posted.
Stephanie is drawing a mustache on a picture of Sable when Vince, Big Show and Sable come in. Vince tries to get Stephanie to quit but she won't do it. In other words, nothing has changed since last week. Stephanie brings up the logical question: why doesn't Vince just fire her? He doesn't want to because he wants her to quit. Playing rough is mentioned and I don't want to know what Vince means by that.
Long recap of Brock vs. Angle. They're treating this like the big match that it should be.
Los Guerreros are ready to win the Tag Team Titles back. Tonight, they're doing it for GRANDMA!
Earlier today, John Cena was on top of a building and saying he underestimated Los Guerreros. Next week, he fulfills his destiny. No word on what that means.
Tag Team Titles: Los Guerreros vs. World's Greatest Tag Team
Charlie and Shelton are defending. Eddie starts with Benjamin but it's quickly off to Chavo for some forearms to the back. The fast tags continue but this time Eddie is driven into the champs' corner, followed by a hard whip. It's already back to Chavo though and unloading ensues, including a monkey flip to send Benjamin flying. Back to back dives take the champs down and we take a break.
We come back with Eddie poking Haas in the eye, which of course gets him cheered even more. Chavo comes back in as the challengers manage to keep control for a lot longer than you might have expected. Eddie's sunset flip gets two on Benjamin but a kick to Chavo's arm cuts off the offense. A hammerlock northern lights suplex gets two and it's back to Shelton for a keylock.
Chavo dives out of an arm hold and makes the hot tag….which doesn't count as Benjamin has the referee. Instead a running dive into Benjamin's arms is enough for the hot tag off to Eddie and it's time to speed things up. Everything breaks down and house is cleaned but Eddie's frog splash is broken up.
Eddie rolls through the second attempt and Charlie brings in a chair. Chavo dropkicks it into Shelton's knee though and Benjamin is down. Back up and Charlie gets double backdropped but stays on the Guerreros' back for some reason, crashing HARD onto his head. Apparently that gave him a concussion and that's not even slightly surprising. Eddie frog splashes Haas for the pin and the titles.
Rating: B. Nearly breaking Haas in half aside, this was a good match with both teams getting to show off what they can do. Los Guerreros are an awesome team and there's nothing wrong with putting the belts back on them. That US Title suggests that Eddie is in for bigger things so I don't think the titles are staying on them for very long. It's very nice to see another match on this show get some time though and the talent involved made sure that it was quality stuff.
Tazz has keys to victory for the main event. For Brock: a lot of F5's. For Angle, ankle locks. And this man is a professional.
Bets are being taken on the match.
Smackdown World Title: Brock Lesnar vs. Kurt Angle
Angle is defending in a sixty minute Iron Man match. Lesnar jumps him before the bell and stomps the champ down in the corner early on. Angle comes out of the corner with a hard clothesline and the first suplex sends Brock out to the floor. Back in and a trio of armdrags send Lesnar outside again and we hit a long stall. We're five minutes in now as Lesnar gets back inside. The threat of a single leg takedown sends Lesnar running again, though not for quite as long this time.
Back in again and Brock pounds him down, only to be sent outside yet again. This time Kurt follows him out but gets posted to give Lesnar his first real advantage. Instead of following up by normal means, Brock chairs him down to give up the first fall at 8:42. There's a fifteen second rest period, after which Brock hits a great looking F5 to tie it up at 10:21. Brock talks a lot of trash and an ankle lock makes Angle tap at 12:08 to make it 2-1.
We take a break and come back with the same score and 44:00 to go. Brock hits a shoulder in the corner but a second attempt only hits post, allowing Angle to slug away. The rolling German suplexes have Lesnar reeling but he sends Angle outside for a breather. You can tell they're filling time and for once, that's completely understandable as there's only so much you can do in an hour long match. An F5 on the floor is good for a countout and Lesnar is up 3-1 with 40:03 to go.
We take another break and come back with 36:05 to go and Angle punching away. A hard shoulder puts Angle down but he's right back with an Angle Slam to make it 3-2 with 34:05 left. Some suplexes rock Lesnar and there go the straps! Both finishers are escaped and it's the ankle lock to put Lesnar in trouble. Lesnar rolls out in short order and the referee gets bumped, meaning there's no count off the Angle Slam. By the powers, what a coincidence.
A low blow takes Angle down again and Brock gets in a belt shot as we hit the halfway mark. Cole: "Now the true colors of Brock Lesnar are coming out!" Sweet goodness you've spent the better part of a month telling us how Brock is a monster after he BROKE GOWEN'S LEG THEN THREW HIM DOWN THE STEPS but a belt shot proves he's evil? Anyway said belt shot gives Brock another fall at 29:32 to go.
We take another break and come back with 25:00 left and Angle taking it to the floor for some right hands. A top rope ax handle to the floor keeps Lesnar in trouble, followed by a missile dropkick for another near fall. Kurt misses the moonsault though and it's a double knockdown. A clothesline drops Angle again and a suplex gives Brock two. Angle slaps on a quick ankle lock but the counter sends him outside all over again. We're under twenty minutes to go as Lesnar grabs the steps, only to have Angle kick them into his face. That's only good for a pair of near falls and we take another break.
Back again with Lesnar up 5-2, having hit a superplex during the break to extend the lead even further. Angle is trying to get to his feet on the floor as we have 14:00 left. Brock follows him out but Angle F5's him knee first into the post, which excites Cole way too much. A half crab into the ankle lock doesn't work (probably because it was on the leg that didn't go into the post) as Lesnar makes the rope again. Lesnar's knee is fine enough to hit another F5 but that's only good for two.
Brock goes up for the sole purpose of being taken down with a belly to belly superplex as Angle gets a fall back with 9:52 to go. Kurt wins a slugout and pounds Brock down in the corner, followed by a suplex with 8:00 left. There go the straps again but Brock plants him with a DDT for two more. Lesnar snaps off a German suplex of his own and the time is being eaten up faster and faster. Even more German suplexes get us down to 6:00 left but Angle gets a series of his own.
Lesnar's next suplex is reversed into the ankle lock and it's a shortened version of the Summerslam ending with Brock grabbing two ropes but having to tap with 4:07 to go. I still don't get how that works but it's 5-4 Lesnar with 4:00 on the clock. They're both down for a good while until Kurt slaps the hold on again. This one is broken up in short order and we're down to 3:00.
Kurt goes with something like an STF with Lesnar on his side but it doesn't last long. Lesnar rolls outside with 2:00 left so Kurt sends him head first into the steps. Back in and Kurt hits three straight German suplexes as we have less than a minute to go. A low blow behind the referee's back gets Brock out of trouble but Kurt is back with the grapevined ankle lock with 15 seconds left. Brock somehow hangs on to win the title back.
Rating: A-. This match falls into the same problem that so many Iron Man matches fall into: aside from a spot or two, the first fifteen to twenty minutes don't really add anything to the match. That makes sense as you have so much time to kill in a match like this, but it doesn't exactly make for the best TV experience. It's similar to a tournament: you know the drama is all going to be at the end and it makes a lot of the falls feel a little uninteresting.
Now that being said, this was a heck of a match with both guys beating the tar out of each other with all kinds of holds and suplexes. It was the match these two should have had and felt like a big deal. The ending had good drama which was set up by Lesnar tapping not too long before the final hold went on. The rest of the second half of the match is great and the whole thing is very good, but it's no Rock vs. HHH.
Overall Rating: A. Now that's more like it. This was all about the wrestling (save for the nothing women's match) and it was a great time watching the thing. This was supposed to be the pay per view style TV show since Smackdown didn't have a pay per view in September and it certainly delivered. Great main event, a really solid tag match and nothing stupid (aside from the stupid McMahons segment) make for a really outstanding show.
Remember to check out my website at kbwrestlingreviews.com and pick up the 2018 Updated Version of the History of the WWE Championship in e-book or paperback. Check out the information here:
And check out my Amazon author page with cheap wrestling books at:


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The holidays are just a few weeks away, so it's time to get shopping. In keeping with previous posts in 2020 and 2021, we've put together another gift guide outlining the best holiday gifts for apartment residents. These gifts will make the lives of apartment dwellers easier and help them ...Read More
The Blogs
Whether you're single or in a relationship, Valentine's Day is a time to treat yourself. There are many places in Buffalo to celebrate all of the best parts of Valentine's Day. The city has plenty of scrumptious sweet shops, quality florists and fantastic restaurants that can help you make this ...Read More
The holidays are quickly approaching, but there's still time to get some awesome gifts for the apartment dweller in your life. We've written holiday gift guides for apartment residents before, but we've put together a whole new list of items for the 2021 holiday season. Most are available at local ...Read More
There's no doubt that we've all spent more time at home than ever this year. For many, their home has become their office, gym and entertainment center. And for people that live in apartments, the COVID-19 lockdown has meant that they've had to be creative and make the most of ...Read More
It's the end of the decade -- which means you know New Year's parties are going to send it out with a bang. Being a fun drinking town, Buffalo has a ton of exciting parties and events on New Year's Eve. But even if you're not a big drinker, there ...Read More
It's no secret that the night before Thanksgiving is one of the biggest party nights of the year -- especially here in Buffalo. An abundance of bars in walkable areas, college students home from school reuniting with friends, bars open until 4 a.m. and a few days off from work ...Read More
It's Valentine's Day, which means many people will be indulging in chocolate and other sweet treats. According to History.com, 58 million pounds of chocolate are purchased during Valentine's Day week alone. But why is it so popular to gift loved ones chocolate on this holiday? History Of Chocolate & Valentine's Day The ...Read More
Dec 15, 2016 - The holiday season is in full swing--and there's no place we'd rather be than here in Western New York. There are so many fun activities to participate in around Buffalo and Niagara Falls during the holidays. From cutting down your own Christmas tree to shopping for ...Read More
Oct 26, 2016 - The spookiest night on the year is less than one week away!!! So we've compiled a list of some of the great festivals and parties all over Western New York leading up to and on Halloween. So no matter how you like to celebrate October ...Read More
March 19, 2016 - Once fish fry season ends and Easter is over, it's time to celebrate Dyngus Day in Buffalo, NY. If you're not of Polish heritage or not from Buffalo, you may not have heard of the holiday--but Buffalo, NY is the Dyngus Day capital of America, according to Dyngus Day ...Read More
Dec 21,2015 - Christmas is a time to relax. For most of us in Buffalo and Niagara Falls it means time with family, good food, and presents. It is a time to forget about the stresses of our jobs and focus on the lighter side of life. But not everyone ...Read More
Dec 10, 2015 - While Western New York hasn't been much of a winter wonderland so far this December, you can still get into the holiday spirit this season by checking out one of the many Christmas festivals and lights displays around Buffalo, NY and Niagara Falls, NY. We've rounded up some ...Read More

subset: commoncrawl


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About those nightshades…
And not the ones in your bedroom. These are a certain group of veggies in the "Solanaceae" family.
Nightshades include:
It reads like part of the grocery list for an Italian meal, I know. These are pretty common veggies in many cuisines. Before you get concerned, let's stop and go over why we're talking about nightshades.
Nightshades contain solanine – among many other constituents – which is an alkaloid that may exacerbate inflammation in the body. That doesn't mean that everyone needs to avoid it. Those who may benefit include people with chronic inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis. Usually people notice a difference within a few weeks of avoidance, or even reduction.
Avoiding nightshades doesn't have to be super strict – unless you're avoiding them for a food allergy situation! Reducing how MUCH and how FREQUENTLY you consume nightshade veggies reduces the inflammation-exacerbating effect.
In addition, other good news is that there are plenty of alternate dishes and substitutes so you don't have to miss your favorite food, just adjust how you prepare it. For example, sweet potatoes are an excellent alternative to regular white potatoes, and squash can be used instead of eggplant in many recipes.
As always, you are an individual and your own doctor can guide you better as to what is right for you as an individual. If you're considering avoiding nightshades or other dietary changes, talk with your doctor first.
May you be well.
The information provided here is not intended to replace medical advice or to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Please consult your doctor with specific questions and prior to beginning any significant diet or lifestyle changes.


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The agony and ecstasy of Oscar night is nothing new. Everyone wants to see their favorites win, and no one enjoys seeing a movie they dislike canonized as Best Picture. This happens every year, of course, but some winners — and losers — have been more shocking than others. Here are eight of the latter, and the stories behind their surprising losses.
"Citizen Kane" (1941)
Despite being the consensus choice for Greatest Movie of All Time, Orson Welles' masterwork wasn't even named the greatest movie of 1941. That honor went to How Green Was My Valley, which doesn't often get discussed outside the context of its Oscar glory. That's unfortunate, as it's actually a wonderful movie and not at all the undeserving usurper it's sometimes portrayed as. Citizen Kane's loss is more surprising in hindsight than it may have been at the time: Welles based his eponymous character on newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, who used his massive influence to limit the film's theatrical success.
Welles himself received an honorary statue in 1971 but never won a competitive Oscar — nor did he receive another nomination after Citizen Kane. That too is unfortunate, as his 1942 follow-up, The Magnificent Ambersons, is even better.
"High Noon" (1952)
It's a dynamic we've since seen several times: The lighthearted crowd-pleaser beats out the more conventionally "serious" picture. In this case it was The Greatest Show on Earth taking home the big one over Stanley Kramer's classic Western, whose reputation has brightened as the Cecil B. DeMille big-tent production's has dimmed. The Greatest Show on Earth frequently appears on lists of the worst Best Picture winners of all time, a dubious distinction it shares with the likes of Crash and Around the World in 80 Days.
"Dr. Zhivago" (1965)
Not unlike Citizen Kane, David Lean's epic adaptation of Boris Pasternak's novel is considered one of the greatest movies ever made. The Academy didn't seem to agree, though the competition was admittedly stiff: The Sound of Music claimed the top prize that year. Even so, the film was hardly a failure: Dr. Zhivago won five of the 10 Academy Awards for which it was nominated (three technical prizes along with Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Score), is among the 10 highest-grossing films of all time when adjusted for inflation, and has seen its legacy grow in the half-century since its release. The same can be said of Lean, who received seven Best Director nominations and won twice, for Lawrence of Arabia and The Bridge on the River Kwai.
"Network" (1976)
1976 was such a stacked year that it's genuinely difficult to pick only one surprise loser; true to the scrappy underdog nature of its title character, Rocky triumphed over Taxi Driver and All the President's Men. Network may have been the biggest shock on Oscar night, however, for the extent to which it captured the late '70s zeitgeist. "I'm as mad as hell, and I'm not going to take this anymore!" is among the most-quoted lines in movie history, and each passing year has shown just how frighteningly prescient this story of a TV network's attempt to rebound from lagging ratings truly was.
"Goodfellas" (1990)
It's easy to forget now, but Martin Scorsese used to exemplify the phrase "always a bridesmaid, never a bride." Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, Goodfellas, Gangs of New York, and The Aviator were all nominated for Best Picture before The Departed finally won in 2006, which was also the year Scorsese finally took home an individual trophy (for Best Director) after seven unsuccessful nominations. None of those losses stung quite like Goodfellas, which came up short against Dances With Wolves. Kevin Costner's sweeping Western had such a troubled production that some jokingly referred to it as Kevin's Gate, a riff on the disastrous (and, in hindsight, unfairly maligned) Heaven's Gate, but the film was instantly successful with critics and audiences alike. Its Oscar glory wasn't a huge shock at the time, but looking back on Goodfellas as anything but a Best Picture winner remains jarring nevertheless.
"Saving Private Ryan" (1998)
Despite being only the second-best World War II movie of 1998 (hello, The Thin Red Line), Steven Spielberg's blockbuster was easily the year's biggest film. It earned $482 million at the global box office, inspired countless parodies, and cemented Spielberg's status as one of our era's defining filmmakers. If you're curious how it lost Best Picture to the comparatively breezy Shakespeare in Love after all that, the answer is fairly simple: Oscar campaigns are ruthless, especially those masterminded by Harvey Weinstein before his well-deserved fall from grace.
Shakespeare in Love's win is considered such an upset, in fact, that the movie's Wikipedia page has a section named "Best Picture and Best Actress Oscar controversy," and a poll of Oscar voters taken last year indicated that Saving Private Ryan would have won if there had been a do-over.
"Brokeback Mountain" (2005)
In that same poll, Academy members said they would now name Brokeback Mountain 2005's Best Picture over Crash — something the vast majority of pundits and industry insiders expected at the time. Not only was Ang Lee's gay romantic drama a critical and financial success, but it also won top prizes at the Venice Film Festival, Golden Globes, British Academy Film Awards, Producers Guild of America Awards, and Directors Guild of America Awards — all of which are Oscar precursors that frequently align with the eventual Best Picture winner. Crash's surprise victory was instantly criticized, with many attributing it to homophobia. Those accusations have not lessened with time, and the film has often been called the worst Best Picture winner of all time.
"La La Land" (2016)
There's surprising, and then there's the moment that La La Land was mistakenly announced as having won Best Picture after Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway were handed the wrong envelope. The error didn't come to light until the musical romance's producers were well into their acceptance speeches, with producer Fred Berger ending his speech by saying, "We lost, by the way." Moonlight — an LGBTQ+ drama directed by a Black man and made for just $1.5 million, a shoestring budget compared to the amounts allocated for most awards contenders — would have been an unexpected winner under any circumstances, but being part of the most shocking moment in Oscar history elevated its victory to an unprecedented level. To their credit, the makers of La La Land handled their not-quite-victory with utmost grace; after realizing the error, producer Jason Horowitz said he was "really proud to hand this to my friends from Moonlight."
Despite not being the kind of movie that usually wins Best Picture, Moonlight is the opposite of undeserving. It was far and away the most well-reviewed film of 2016, won a total of 161 awards, and has since been named the best movie of the decade by several groups.


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It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.REGN . Shares have added about 7.9% in that time frame, outperforming the market.
Will the recent positive trend continue leading up to the stock's next earnings release, or is it due for a pullback? Before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted of late, let's take a quick look at the most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the important catalysts.
Regeneron Beats on Earnings & Sales, Raises View
Regeneron reported second-quarter of 2017 results wherein both earnings and sales beat expectations on the back of strong performance of eye-care drug Eylea.
The company reported earnings (including the impact of share-based compensation expenses and tax adjustments) of $4.17 per share in the second-quarter beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.20.
Excluding share-based compensation expenses, Regeneron's earnings came in at $4.17 per share, up from $2.82 reported in the year-ago quarter. Total revenue in the second quarter increased 21.2% year over year to $1.47 billion driven by strong sales of eye treatment drug, Eylea. Revenues were above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.36 billion.
We note Regeneron has co-developed Eylea with the HealthCare unit of Bayer. The company is solely responsible for the U.S. sales of the eye drug and is entitled to profits. However, it shares profits and losses equally with Bayer from ex-U.S. Eylea sales, except in Japan, where the company receives a royalty on net sales.
Quarterly Highlights
Net product sales increased to $924.1 million in the reported quarter, up 10.8% year over year. The majority of sales came from Eylea in the U.S. ($919 million, up 10.6%). Sales of Eylea in ex-U.S. markets were $542 million, up from $486 million reported in the year-ago quarter.
Revenues also include Sanofi and Bayer collaboration revenues of $432 million, compared with $355 million in the year-ago quarter. Collaboration revenues from Sanofi were $222.1 million in the quarter, compared with $163.4 million a year ago. Praluent recorded global net sales of $46 million in the reported quarter, up from $24 in the year-ago quarter. We note Praluent has been co-developed in collaboration with Sanofi. Product sales for Praluent are recorded by Sanofi, while Regeneron shares profits or losses from the commercialization of the drug.
Dupixent sales came in at $29 million. The drug was approved earlier in 2017 for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD).
R&D expenses decreased 8.9% while selling, general and administrative (SG&A) increased 5.1% during the quarter.
2017 Outlook Updated
Based on a strong first half, the company raised its sales guidance for Eylea. In 2017, Regeneron expects U.S. Eylea net sales to grow around 10% (earlier guidance: growth in single digits). The company now expects adjusted unreimbursed R&D expenses in the range of $925-$965 million, down from the earlier guidance of $950-$1,025 million.
We note that the European Medicine Agency's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) rendered a positive opinion for the marketing authorization of Dupixent, recommending its approval for use in adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis who are candidates for systemic therapy in Jul 2017. Meanwhile, a phase III study of Dupixent in pediatric patients (6-11 years of age) with uncontrolled persistent asthma was initiated in second-quarter 2017.
In May 2017, the FDA approved Kevzara for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis who have an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). The drug was also approved in Europe in Jun 2017.
In Jun 2017, the European Commission granted marketing authorization for Kevzara in combination with methotrexate (MTX) for the treatment of moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis in adult patients who have responded inadequately to, or who are intolerant to one or more DMARDs; Kevzara may be used as monotherapy in case of intolerance to MTX or when treatment with MTX is inappropriate.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?
Following the release, investors have witnessed an upward trend in fresh estimates. There have been seven revisions higher for the current quarter compared to two lower. In the past month, the consensus estimate has shifted by 33.5% due to these changes.
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Price and Consensus
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Price and Consensus | Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Quote
VGM Scores
At this time, Regeneron's stock has a subpar Growth Score of D, however its Momentum is doing a bit better with a C. The stock was allocated a grade of D on the value side, putting it in the bottom 40% for this investment strategy.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of D. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.
The company's stock is suitable solely for momentum investors based on our style scores.
Estimates have been trending upward for the stock. The magnitude of these revisions also looks promising. It comes with little surprise that the stock has a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (REGN): Free Stock Analysis Report
To read this article on Zacks.com click here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.


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In order to begin building wealth, you must understand the big picture. So, what is the big picture of wealth?
The "elephant in the room" is often stated when people are avoiding a discussion that might be uncomfortable. Finances and wealth are often "the elephants in the room" for many people. But wealth should not be an elephant in the room. In fact, it should be talked about and taught more.
One of my biggest passions is to equip people to know how to build wealth in order to make a difference. That is why Wealthbuilders was founded. The mission of Wealthbuilders is to help people make sense of money in order to make a difference in the world. Although I teach on the many different aspects of wealth building individually, today I want to help you see the big picture of wealth building. I want to talk about "the elephant in the room".
If this is difficult for you, I understand. I struggled for a long time to understand the big picture of wealth building. I would listen to teaching after teaching hoping to finally see the big picture. But each time I felt like I was standing too close to the elephant and was only able to see part of the animal. I could see the trunk or the tail, but I wasn't able to see the whole elephant—the big picture!
How does this relate to wealth building? Well, I would hear a teaching on how to become debt-free, and I would put that into the debt-freedom compartment in my brain. Or I would hear a teaching on investing, and I would put that into the investment compartment of my brain. Every time I heard a teaching on some aspect of wealth, I would file it away in a separate compartment. Maybe you do this too.
It was like looking at the trunk of the elephant and saying, "Oh, an elephant is shaped like a hose," or looking at the side of the elephant and saying, "Oh, an elephant looks like a wall." The truth is that the elephant is more than a trunk or a side. It's both of those things plus more. The big picture of an elephant includes the trunk and the side.
The Big Picture of Wealth Building
It is the same with wealth building! The big picture of wealth building includes all the separate parts of wealth. Over many years of experience, discussion, and learning, I was finally able to put all the different aspects of wealth into one solid idea. I call this the Triple X Factor. It gave me a true view of wealth building and I was finally able to see the whole elephant!
What is The Triple X Factor? The Triple X Factor includes 3 levels, which I simply call The First X, The Second X, and the Third X.
The First X
The First X is where many people seem to sit on the wealth building continuum. With First X Income, you work and then you get paid. You use this money for asset-building and living. This is known as "non-leverage income".
Basically, if you rely on a weekly/biweekly/monthly paycheck to live, then you are at the level of the First X. This is not a bad thing – many people stay here forever – but you don't want to be one of those people!
The Second X
The Second X is what we call asset income. The point of Second X income is to live off of the income from your assets. This is known as "foundational wealth". At this point, you would be able to quit the job that you had in the First X – if you wanted – and live off of the income that your assets are creating.
Some popular ways of creating asset income are real estate, stocks, businesses, and more.
The Third X
The Third X goes beyond all of this. The amount of money at this stage of the game is excessive. Basically, it's beyond what you need and so you can give all of the excess away. What a feeling, right?
To begin wealth building, you must understand the three levels of The Triple X Factor. You need to evaluate where you are financially – the First X, Second X, or Third X. You may even need to discuss "the elephant in the room" with someone close to you. They may be able to point out truth that you cannot see yet.
Where do you lie on the wealth building scale? Are you at The First X, the Second X, or the Third X? Does this big picture view help you understand the wealth building process even more? If you're interested in learning more about wealth building, check out my book, Money Mastery.


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Halime of Ertugrul, is that you?
As I have already written about our very dear nation's obsession with a dressing of actors in reel life or real life in detail. If you want to read it click the following link ??
Also Read: De-Glamourization a by product of desi industry
This time it is not our industry's bahu, beti (daughter-in-law or daughter) but, Queen/Princess or whatever, 'HALIMEEE' from our recent obsession 'Ertugrul', a Turkish series based on the great warrior of Islamic history. It actually depicts the backdrop of the Ottoman Empire, but who cares ??? Our obsession started with 'THARKI-i-ZATION' and led us to search our Halima Baji on Instagram, Twitter, etc, etc.
What we discovered was;
Lo and behold!!!!
She turned out to be not so Haleeme…!!
Why? Why? Why?
What we saw was Esra Bilgiç, a normal yet gorgeous actor living her life, totally ignorant that a nation of possessed mindset is fixated on her. Not only they are fixated on her but they also started schooling her for how un-Islamic is her lifestyle. As our desi-netizens were shattered and enervated to see Queen Halime wearing short dresses, skirts, off-shoulders, lying on the beach, and simply chilling.
Its off-limit!!!
How could she? She is OUR HALIME (though even the play is not our's) but Halime is our property.
'I expected you to be more devout', commented by someone whose tiny opinion does not even matter to the actor.
So Halime un-Islamic, Halime not so Queen, Halime enjoying normal clothing and not so modest lifestyle according to the FANS, is something all about happening in Pakistan right now.
Why do we behave like this???
A few days back I was watching a drama review show which is on fire these days on youtube and I adore the reviewer, she is spunky, she is cute but what I can't take is her regressive views.
She sits with her son and talks about various dramas. Though the bashing comes as candid as a mother's love though when she says
'Haiiiiii Honey (her son) peechoon aiiidaaaaa waddda galaa paa ke koi janda ae Piyoooo de samne??' (Translation for non-Punjabis; 'do anyone wears such a deep back neck in front of their Father?)
Whereas, Honey bechara have no clue how to react because he is totally into Hollywood stuff and gives a damn to what Ama believes in. Honey loves to flaunt his dis-interest in Pakistani dramas and tell viewers that he can only suggest some Hollywood seasons. *sighsss* which makes me feel bad for Ama, the innocent soul who thinks that Nirma ka Gala would make her Honey a pervert and all the HONEYS of Pakistan should not see it and therefore, Nirma should hide her gala from Back!!
Though Ama has no idea that what extent of nudity these Desi-Honeys have already seen.
The way we are bringing up our
'kathey angrez' and inculcating double standards in them is horrendous. We divulge into the private space of every celebrity or any half-known person, dig out their personal life and bash them to set an example for a new set of perverts that we are bringing up.
So dear Pakistanis kindly stop bullying Halime, she is just an actor who performed a character and that too amazingly. Next, you would want her to marry Ertugral, Engin Altan Düzyatan, the actor who is already married and have two kids.
Kindly keep your fantasies and obsessions to yourself and stop humiliating the name of Pakistani people in the world. Please think about us, the people who give a 'DAMN' to the personal life or even a reel life of someone.
Thank You so much!!


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In other updates, Sun Life Financial Philippines' the Sunpiology Resolution Run. opened the year by rallying Filipinos towards health and wellness which were able to raise over Php 5 Million for charity. Held last January 20 at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, the event attracted over 3,000 runners, who tackled obstacles designed to raise awareness about diabetes.
A limbo rock challenge reminded everyone to keep their health in check, a 100-step challenge gave reminders on how to infuse exercise in one's daily routine, while a sugar tunnel prompted everyone to watch their sugar intake.
A limbo rock challenge reminded everyone to keep their health in check, a 100-step challenge gave reminders on how to infuse exercise in one's daily routine, while a sugar tunnel prompted everyone to watch their sugar intake.
Sun Life has been championing diabetes awareness since 2015, after studies that it commissioned showed that many Filipinos lacked knowledge about the debilitating disease. In fact, part of the funds raised will go to the Institute for Studies on Diabetes Foundation (ISDFI), which facilitates diabetes awareness and prevention initiatives for Filipinos. Other beneficiaries are Noordhoff Craniofacial Foundation, Hebreo Foundation, and the Star Magic scholars.
Now on its 9th year, the run was once again co-presented by Star Magic and led by actor and Sun Life brand ambassador Piolo Pascual. His fellow artists, such as Matteo Guidicelli, Enchong Dee, Robi Domingo, Kisses Delavin, Edward Barber, and Maymay Entrata also joined the event. Other artists were Ashley Colet, Bailey May, Belle Mariano, Chantal Videla, Christian Morones, Claire Ruiz, Franco Rodriguez, Hannah Ledesma, Hannah Lopez Vito, Henz Villaraiz, Jai Agpangan, Jameson Blake, Jessica Marasigan, Joe Vargas, Joj Agpangan, Kyle Velino, Lance Lucido, Loren Burgos, Marco Gallo, Maris Racal, Mark Rivera, Mikee Agustin, Nico Antonio, Nikki Valdez, Inigo Pascual, Pamu Pamorada, Raine Salamante, Ria Atayde, Sam Shoaf, Sam Thurman, Tommy Esguerra, Vivoree Esclito, Xia Vigor,Yesha Camile, Ysabel Ortega, Zeus Collins and Zonia Mejia.
The Resolution Run was presented by Sun Life Financial Philippines in partnership with Brooks, Cherifer, Diabetasol, DMC Marketing Services, Dr. Kong, Fitbar, Gardenia, Green Stevia, Hi-Precision Diagnostics, Mega Sardines, RUNNR, Saucony, Stable, Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc., and TrueTea; supported by Glorious Blend, Nurture Wellness Village, PhilRice, and Silka; with media partners Business Mirror, Business World, Cinema One, Lifestyle, OUTCOMM, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, and Star Studio. Gatorade (official hydration partner), (My Health Clinic (official medical partner), Garmin (official timer); and Toby's (official registration partner) also helped mount the event facilitated by RunRio.
The event completes Sunpiology Duo, Sun Life's bike-run event, which commenced last November 2017 with the Sun Life Cycle PH.
Xoxo, 💋
All my images copyright to THEMERMAIDINSTILETTOS.COM


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13 Tips on How to Fix Painting Mistakes on Walls
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The most useful tool to calculate your home renovation costs for free.
Are you an enthusiastic DIYer, who tried your hand at painting your walls, but were left with a less-than-perfect finish? Don't worry. It happens to the best of us. Not all do-it-yourself home improvement projects turn out flawless in the first go. And, that's why we'll help you figure out how to fix painting mistakes on your walls.
We understand that occasional painting problems are inevitable — no matter how careful or experienced you are. If you're unsure about your painting skills, it's never too late to put down that paintbrush and hire a painter — leaving the hassles of painting to them.
Looking for a professional painter? Let Kukun help you hire the best.
Fortunately, you can clean up most paint mistakes without too much trouble. So, the next time you're wondering how to fix paint drips or spill, try one of these foolproof ways to prevent goof-ups and their solutions for damage control.
Fixing painting mistakes on walls
Painting mistake 1. Uneven coverage
If you want a flawless paint job, you must apply the right number of coats — and at the right time. For instance, if your painted walls look patchy, it means that you didn't apply enough paint layers. Moreover, you need to let the first coat of paint dry completely before applying the next one.
Painting mistake 2. Paint bubbles
If the topcoat of your wall paint doesn't adhere to the undercoat properly, there's a chance that paint bubbles or blisters may occur. The reason could be a moisture or heat problem. First of all, try to identify the underlying cause. Once the temperature problem has been addressed, you need to scrape off the bubbles or blisters with a paint scraper and sandpaper. Then, coat the wall with a primer before repainting.
Read more: Interior & exterior house painting financing
Painting mistake 3. Paint splatters on windows
Getting latex paint drips or paint splatters on your windowpane is almost inevitable. Fortunately, removing the stains is easy enough. Simply allow the paint to dry completely first. Then, scrape off the unsightly spots off with a razor blade — keeping it at an angle. As you work, keep wiping off the razor blade with a damp rag in order to remove the excess paint.
Painting mistake 4. Roller marks
If you're working with paint rollers, you'll have to be very careful lest the roller marks or lap marks show. They usually occur if you've failed to maintain a wet edge while painting. You need to restore the wall's smooth finish. Simply sand down the uneven portions until they are smooth. Wipe the walls down to remove all traces of dust. Finally, prime and apply an even, thick coat of paint.
Your interior paint is important. Get the best estimate with us.
Keep in mind that short-napped rollers work best on plain walls, ceilings, and trim. Longer-nap roller covers are ideal for textured walls. Moreover, rollers with steel frames are sturdier to work with.
Painting mistake 5. Paint on the trim
A good way to avoid paint splatters on the trim is to keep a damp cloth close by while painting around trim work. Use the cloth to immediately wipe off any accidental skimming. But, if you've missed a spot and it has dried, you can still sand the paint off. Wipe off the dust and when it's completely dry, touch up the trim area with trim paint.
Painting mistake 6. Drips and runs
If your paintbrush has excess paint, there will be drip stains on your wall. The trick is to always remove any extra paint from your brush before the application. But, how to fix dry paint that has drips? Well, you can use a paint scraper and sand the area smooth. Repaint the section carefully. Make sure it blends in with the rest of the wall color.
Read more: Remove dried paint drips from wall
Painting mistake 7. Paint spots on the ceiling
If you've inadvertently splashed some paint on your ceiling, immediately spray some window cleaner on a clean paintbrush and use it to wipe the paint off while the spot is still wet. If the dab of paint has already dried, you'll need to touch up the paint with a small brush. You must be careful to feather the edges so that the paint blends in perfectly.
Painting mistake 8. Peeling paint along tape lines
If you wait too long to remove your painter's tape, chances are, you'll end up pulling some paint off as you pull the tape. To fix peeling paint, you need to sand the damaged area with a sanding block. Wipe the area thoroughly with a damp cloth and carefully repaint the section.
Painting mistake 9. Carpets stains
If your paint spills on the carpet, don't panic. Carpet cleaning is easier than you think. If the paint is still wet, you can use a wet paper towel to blot it up. Make sure you don't rub the area. You'll end up pushing the paint particles further into the carpet fibers. If the paint has dried, you will need to make a solution of hot water and dish detergent and pour it onto the stained area. Wait until the paint softens. Then gently scrape out the particles with a table knife.
Painting mistake 10. Patchy filler
In case your paint job requires you to fill or patch some sections of the drywall, always remember to prime the area before painting it. Or else, you will notice unattractive lighter spots. Therefore, it's important to cover those patchy sections with a quality primer. Once it has dried completely, apply a fresh coat of paint.
Painting mistake 11. Brush marks
Brush marks happen. But, they give out uneven, messy results. That's why it's important that you're extra careful while painting your room walls. In case the brush marks are still visible, you should sand down the area, wipe it clean, and then repaint for a flawless finish.
Read more: How to remove paint from wood floor
Painting mistake 12. Too bright a color
More often than not, the paint sample you see in the store looks and feels quite different than when it's applied on your walls. If the color looks a little too bright, consider using a glaze to lessen its intensity. The type of color glaze you use will depend on the effect you're trying to create. You can even get a custom glaze.
The best way to find your interior painting cost calculator, try our estimator tool!
Painting mistake 13. Lint splotches
Before you use a new roller, you must remove any lint or dust from it. Otherwise, it can transfer onto the walls and ruin your paint job by creating a splotched spot. In case such a situation happens, remember to lightly use a sanding block from the area to remove the lint from the wall. Take a damp cloth and wipe off the dust. Once it's dry, repaint for a seamless finish.
Read more: 6 most effective steps on how to estimate a paint job
Last thoughts on how to fix painting mistakes on walls
Painting is one of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to transform your home. You can either hire a painter or take up the job yourself and paint like a pro. But, if you've painted your walls and are not satisfied with the results, you can still rectify a bad paint job. Always remember that the damage isn't permanent. With these tips, you can quickly fix common painting mistakes and have beautiful walls.
Read more: What not to fix when selling a house


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March 19, 2019
Learn more about Florida's commitment to transport the disabled and disadvantagedRead More
Oct. 24, 2018
Learn more about Florida's texting and driving lawsRead More
Sept. 6, 2018
Ch. Law 2018-130 Defines "autocycle" and revises the definition of "motorcycle." Requires safety belt usage by autocycle operator/passenger under the age of 18, and authorizes autocycle operation without a motorcycle endorsement.Read More
July 27, 2018
The best way to address questions that you (someone who has a personal injury and is not an attorney) is to first know what those questions are for which you are seeking answers.Read More
July 27, 2018
If you have never been injured in an auto accident in Florida, you may wonder why you would need an attorney. In a perfect world, insurance companies wouldn't fight or haggle and simply pay the money for your bills and other losses. This, unfortunately is not the reality. Sometimes, even your own insurance company won't treat you fairly.Read More


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Canada - Montreal
The Branch in Montreal is led by a local volunteer alumnus. The Branch aims to enable alumni and students in Montreal to meet regularly during after work events, visits, or other casual events.
Branch Objectives
The Branch's main objective is to enable alumni in Montreal to meet, expand their network, share experiences and have a good time.
Organizers / Managers
Gwendoline DUVAL (2010) - Manager
Rédactrice en chef du média Profession Voyages et consultante en marketing du tourisme
- Email :
- email@example.com


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Q&A With Greta Bellú
Italian foreign exchange student Greta Bellú reflects on her first semester in the United States
January 30, 2020
What is the biggest difference between American and Italian high school?
"The biggest difference is the school because you change classes every hour and classmates, while in Italy, we just had the same class and the same classmates for all five years. And we have five years ."
What is your favorite memory with your host family?
"I think it's Christmas because it's a lot of family time. I obviously miss my family, but is like a second family. It's quality time and I love when like we laugh a lot. They're so funny and I really like them."
What's the weirdest experience you've had in America?
"It might sound weird, but we would never go to school without pajamas on, while here, I've come to school multiple times with my pajamas on. I know it's normal here, but it's very weird for me."
What activities are you involved in at NW?
"I'm in yearbook and I'm a cheerleader."
What is a lesson you've learned since coming to the US?
"I've learned a lot about myself. If I have a problem, I can just solve it alone. I'm strong enough to solve my problems without having my friends and my family right beside me. I can just do that alone. I can do it. And being more confident."
What did a typical weekend look like in Italy?
"I have school on Saturday morning, so we just have Sunday off. On Saturday afternoon, I just have dinner with my best friends. Then also with them and other friends, we used to go to parties and nightclubs. On Sunday, I basically just study and spend some time with my family. In winter, I often go skiing with my dad. Then on Sunday evening, we have family dinner with cousins, uncles, aunts and grandparents."
What do you miss most about Italy?
"Food and my friends. More than my family, I miss my friends."
Was there anything that really surprised you about American culture?
"I wasn't expecting that people were that nice. I don't know if it's just an impression, but I feel like Americans are really nice. They really put an effort and be kind and nice to everyone. That's the thing that I wasn't expecting."
Is there anything that makes you nervous about going back to Italy?
"Sometimes when I write, I misspell words. I forget how to spell Italian words. I have a little niece and she's very little, so I'm afraid that when I come back she's gonna be more close to my brother than Aunt Greta. My friendships change. I'm not really afraid about my family because the family's always the same, and I'm really afraid of changes. My best friend moved another city while I was here, so that's gonna be a huge change. I don't really want to think about it because I'm gonna get depressed."
What was the foreign exchange program process like?
"It had always been a dream of mine, and I just said it to my parents. It was difficult to let me do that for them, but I wanted to come here so bad. You basically just like sign in this organization. I have an American and Italian organization. It's easy but it's hard to explain – you sign up and you just go."
What is your favorite American food?
"I would say Costco pizza, or I love cheeseburgers, donuts and pancakes and breakfast food. I like a lot of American food, but they're just not healthy. I'm used to healthier food."
What does a typical American weekend look like for you?
"It's like more boring than in Italy. On Saturday, I kind of help my host dad with the kids. Then I just hang out with friends. We just like go to the mall or Walmart, or we go to the movie theater or to the park; just normal things."


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Ruby Rose has added to her already impressive collection of tattoos with a quirky new inking. The Orange is the New Black star took to Instagram on Tuesday to reveal she has opted for a paint swatch-inspired design, covering the middle part of her back.
Ruby Rose unveiled her new tattoo on Instagram
The 30-year-old unveiled the artwork in a close-up snap which showed off the colourful artwork. The design features a series of small squares in different colours, with a tiny number painted in the corner of each one, much like paint swatches in DIY stores.
Ruby showed off her sense of humour, quipping that she had become a walking advert for home improvement retailers Home Depot.
"Guys Home Depot is trying to save paper," she joked in the caption to her 8.7 million followers. "So now you can order me and I will stand facing your wall until you pick the color you like. I'll even stand facing the wall as you have breakfast and as you're watching tv at night so you can see the colors at different times. Offer limited. Conditions apply. *this is a completely false ad."
The actress already boasts an impressive collection of inkings
The Australian beauty is renowned for already having a large number of tattoos, including sleeves on both of her arms. Her designs include everything from boxing gloves on her right shoulder, in a tribute to her godfather, to lyrics from singer Sia's hit song Breathe Me.
Best known for her role as Stella Carlin on Orange is the New Black, Ruby inspired her fans earlier this year when she spoke candidly about her battle with depression.
Ruby stars as Stella in Orange is the New Black
The actress posted a photo of one of her tweets from 2013 which read ""It is with great sadness that despite everything I have tried in the short time I was given I am still losing my battle with depression."
In the snap's accompanying caption, Ruby opened up about her struggle and admitted that her old tweet "shook [her] up".
Admitting that she had "hit a rock bottom" when she first shared the message, the actress then explained how depression had affected her.
She recently opened up about her battle with depression
She wrote: "I thought I had failed at being a human being an adult. I didn't know what to do so I left for America to work with trauma therapists and I spent pretty much all the money I had made in my life on an overpriced rehab and a lot of therapy. (There are definitely other ways to do it)... I slept on a blow up mattress when I got my first apartment in Santa Monica, I adopted a dog before I furnished my place.. My dog, Ru, had a bed before me..."
Ruby then explained how her life eventually grew better by fighting her depression, and how her new found success was beyond anything she ever expected. "I don't want to ramble on, I'm just feeling reflective because I chose to fight and I thought it meant I'd be able to live," she confessed. "I DIDN'T think it meant I'd be able to live my dream. I DIDNT think it would result in this extraordinary life I get to be a part of now...
"It just makes me wonder how many others are days, hours, seconds away from realizing their worth.. Their potential.. And once the dark cloud is lifted will be truly happy and free."


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Editor's note: The following is an accounting of facts based on evidence presented by testimony, law enforcement, the Defense and the State. This is not an opinion piece. The following article contains graphic testimony and details that some might find disturbing. Read at your own discretion. A link to the full ruling given by Judge Holt is provided at the end of this article.
Jackson County made national news awaiting the decision of Circuit Court Judge Jennifer C. Holt on whether or not the defendant, Brittany Joyce Smith acted in self defense when she shot a man, Joshua Todd Smith (no relation), to death in her Stevenson, Alabama home on the night of January 16, 2018. According to Brittany's testimony, she and her brother, Chris McCallie, drove to South Pittsburg, Tennessee and picked up Todd because he was stranded and needed a place to spend the night.
Brittany testified that McCallie dropped her and Todd off at her residence and left them there alone. While Brittany and Todd were sitting in the living room, Todd became violent and head-butted her. She ran down the hall, and he followed. After a struggle, she was on the bed, and Todd was strangling her. She blacked out and upon waking, found she had urinated on herself. Todd threatened her life if she "even breathed wrong." When he began trying to break her neck on the side of the bed, she scratched him, and they struggled. They ended up flipped onto the floor, where Todd strangled her again, and once again she lost consciousness. When she awoke the second time, Todd was engaged in the act of raping her, and Brittany testified that she tried to be still until he finished. During cross examination with the State, Brittany confirmed that the word "finish" meant ejaculation. After which, she testified, Todd was a completely different person and asked for a cigarette.
During the exam conducted on January 16, 2018 at Crisis Services of North Alabama to collect evidence for a rape kit, completed by Jeanine Suermann, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE), Brittany was covered in bruises and abrasions, bite marks and strangulation marks. Petechiae, small red flecks of trapped blood just under the surface of the skin, were also present on her face, chest and neck. Suermann was unable to say with certainty that rape occurred. No genital or anal trauma, or indicators for violent penetration of any kind was evident or found. While being cross-examined by the State, Brittany defined the term sodomy and confirmed for the court that to her knowledge she was not sodomized by Todd. Upon swabbing the area, no other evidence of rape was evident or found. Brittany was offered a urine screen to test for the presence of drugs and sexually transmitted infections, but she declined. Forensic testing completed by Angela Fletcher, Forensic Biologist for the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences on the rape kit itself determined there was no semen present, and concerning the evidence collected in the rape kit, Todd was excluded as a contributor.
When the evidence collected from the bedroom, a fitted sheet, comforter and pillow case were tested after the rape kit, it was determined that there were bodily fluids. Other tests determined there was a mixture of at least two other individuals, both of which excluded Todd. There were also results indicating at least four contributors. In the third cutting from the bed clothes, it was determined it did come from a male, but Todd was excluded as a contributor. In the fourth cutting from the bed clothes, a mixture of at least two individuals was found, one of which was male and the other was a match to Brittany. Todd was also excluded as a contributor from this.
Post-mortem labs conducted on Todd detected the presence of illegal substances and confirmed he was under the influence of methamphetamines at the time of his death.
Brittany stated that after the rape occurred, she obtained permission from Todd to use her cell to contact someone to take them to the nearby Mapco gas station for cigarettes. Todd told Brittany, "No cops," to which Brittany agreed, and she called her mother, Ramona, who sent Chris McCallie back to take them to the Mapco. Brittany testified McCallie was the driver, she was the front passenger, and Todd was in the rear driver's side seat. Brittany testified she knew her brother had a registered pistol somewhere in the car but was unsure whether or not it was in the glove box.
Upon entering the Mapco, Brittany testified there was one woman, Paige Painter, working the cash register for a woman checking out. She also noticed a uniformed law enforcement officer fixing himself a cup of coffee, but she didn't ask for help because she was afraid of what Todd would do if she involved law enforcement. Brittany approached the counter and requested a pen and paper. Painter supplied them, and Brittany then wrote down the phone number for her mother and two other friends, Paige and Jeremy. She told Painter that if she ended up dead in the morning, Todd was the one responsible, and she wrote down his full name and mailing address. After which, she purchased the cigarettes and went back to the vehicle where McCallie drove her and Todd home once again.
In regards to the events at the Mapco, Paige Painter testified that Brittany appeared disheveled and, "…looked like she'd been in a fight." When Painter inquired into Brittany's condition and about the piece of paper, Brittany told her she'd been choked unconscious by Todd and had peed on herself. Painter also stated that Brittany called her friend Jeremy and told him that someone was trying to kill her. Jeremy instructed Brittany to call the police. Later, Brittany's mother, Ramona called Painter at the Mapco and Painter told her what she knew. To which, Ramona stated, "When Chris [McCallie] comes in there, tell him to come get me, and we'll go get Brittany."
Using Brittany's subpoenaed cell phone, the court was shown the transmission of texts that passed between Brittany and her mother during this time period, wherein Brittany stated that Todd had just tried to kill her. She then instructed her mother to call the Mapco and ask for Paige Painter. Ramona instructed Brittany to tell McCallie to come pick her up. Again, Brittany tells Ramona to call Paige and to not involve the police because "he" is leaving. Brittany also told her mother not to come over. Later, she was emphatic, and the text was in all caps. "No. DO NOT COME OVER HERE PLEASE STOP I AM FINE." After which, Ramona's reply stated, "If you would quit this [expletive] your kids would be home in no time…Calm down and go to bed and sleep it off."
According to Painter, the following night, January 17, 2018, Brittany came back in the Mapco with Ramona and a friend, and Painter inquired about the previous night's events. Painter testified that Brittany told her Chris came to the house to speak with Todd and brought his gun with him, and later she heard a gunshot. When she went into the kitchen, McCallie was performing CPR on Todd.
Brittany stated during her testimony that when Todd exited the vehicle after they returned to her home from the Mapco, she told her brother to return and speak to Painter. Brittany and Todd re-entered her home together, and once inside, Brittany testified she went to the living room couch with the puppy, and Todd went to the kitchen. He was rummaging in the refrigerator for something to drink when McCallie entered the home through the kitchen door.
However, in her written statement to Jackson County Sheriff's Office Lt. Baker, Brittany stated she was texting people on her way home from the Mapco, and these texts may have been how McCallie found out what Todd had done. She also stated that the three of them, Brittany, McCallie and Todd, went into the house together after the trip to the Mapco.
There are several versions of what happened next.
In her testimony given during the Stand Your Ground trial, Brittany testified that she heard a single gunshot and an argument between McCallie and Todd break out. McCallie was accusing Todd of trying to kill Brittany, and he ordered Todd to leave the premises. When Brittany rounded the corner and went into the kitchen, she testified the gun was on a small island, she was standing beside the island and the only entry into the kitchen, and Todd and McCallie were now hitting each other. Brittany stated she shouted for them to stop fighting and ordered Todd to leave the house. The fight escalated, and McCallie, now facing Todd, was put into a headlock by Todd and started to turn blue. Brittany then testified that she picked up the pistol and ordered Todd to stop several times, before telling McCallie to try to move out of the way because she was going to shoot. Brittany opened fire and stated nothing happened, so she fired again, with still nothing. After she fired a third time, both men fell to the floor. At this point, Brittany stated she thought her brother was shot, but he stood and reassured her that he was okay.
There were five bullets recovered; three were from the body of Todd Smith, one was from the kitchen floor, and one was from an upper kitchen cabinet.
According to Brittany's testimony, she called 911 and asked for an ambulance because a man had been shot. The actual 911 call was played for the court, and when the 911 operator asked Brittany who the shooter was, Brittany stated it was her brother. A few seconds later, the operator asked, "Where is the person that shot him [Todd]?" Brittany replied, "He's right here with me. He's my brother…he was trying to protect me." When asked if she had been raped, Brittany stated, "No, he did not rape me. He was trying to, and he choked me out, and I was like, seeing black, and my brother came in, and they got into an argument, and my brother has his pistol permit, and they were fighting, and then…he got shot."
With directions from the 911 operator, Brittany and McCallie performed CPR on Todd. Brittany testified she was instructed by 911 to disarm the gun and place it on the floor beside the front door before responding officers arrived. According to the bodycam footage from the responding officer that was played for the court, Brittany met him in the front yard and named her brother, McCallie as the shooter once again. In a signed, written statement given to JCSO Lieutenant Tony Baker on January 16, 2018, Brittany, once again claimed her brother, Chis McCallie as the shooter.
McCallie was taken into the custody of the Jackson County Sheriff, and his photos were taken, unclothed. These photos were shown to the court, and based on these photos taken by the JCSO, his condition in the photographs at the time of his arrest and four hours later was neither consistent with someone who had just been in a life or death fight, nor consistent with someone who had just been placed into an aggressive chokehold long enough to cause blue lips or loss of consciousness. McCallie had no swelling, bruising, redness or abrasions anywhere on his face, neck or body caused by a scuffle.In a signed, written statement later given to the JCSO on January 17, 2018, when Brittany confessed to being the shooter, she stated she told McCallie to wipe down the gun before placing it by the door as instructed. In the statement, Brittany confirms her brother's statement, that McCallie wrestled Todd to the floor, and that Todd was lying on the floor when he was shot; however, on the stand Brittany testified Todd was standing and had McCallie in a headlock when she opened fire. When the State cross-examined this discrepancy, Brittany stated she could not remember, and she did not recall making the statement to Investigator Woodall. When the State asked Brittany to confirm when Todd took her phone, Brittany could not recall.
In the report of the ruling filed by Circuit Judge Jennifer C. Holt, the judge stated, "Upon consideration of the all the evidence, the court finds that the defendant has given inconsistent accounts of the events surrounding Todd's death, beginning with the 911 call on January 16, 2018, and has attempted to alter or destroy evidence. The court further finds that the defendant's testimony about material facts was significantly at odds with the physical evidence, exhibits, and other witness testimony."
Brittany motioned for Stand Your Ground Immunity under Alabama Code 13A-3-23, citing defense for her actions that resulted in the death of Todd. A person is immune to charges after using force in self defense when that is the only recourse in order to prevent imminent harm to themselves or to another person. In order to establish her immunity, Smith underwent the Stand Your Ground trial on January 14, 2020 to provide adequate evidence of her innocence from committing a malicious act of deadly force. After deliberating for almost three weeks, Judge Holt filed her ruling on February 3, 2020 and stated, "The court has carefully considered all the evidence presented at the hearing and the law. The defendant did not credibly demonstrate that she reasonably believed it was necessary for her to use deadly force in this situation. The court finds that the defendant has failed to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that she was justified in using deadly physical force. Accordingly, it is ordered, adjudged, and decreed that the defendant's motion to dismiss and motion for immunity from criminal prosecution is denied."
Brittany was granted a stay of proceedings by Judge Holt on February 5, 2020. The next step for the defense will be to file a Writ of Mandamus to the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals. If ruled against her there, Brittany has the option of waiting for her new trial date in Jackson County Circuit Court or going to the Alabama Supreme Court for a final appeal and decision on the self defense ruling.
The full 19-page ruling issued by Judge Holt can be viewed by clicking here.


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Underarm Wax
For many women, removing hair from the underarm area is part of the daily routine with shaving a common choice here. While shaving your underarm area can help keep it looking beautifully clean and clear, it doesn't remove hair from the root and can even stimulate hair growth in the armpit, meaning more regular treatment is needed. Shaving can also cause irritation to the underarm area and in some instances leave a stubble like effect that can sometimes be noticeable. This leads to many woman seeking an alternative to shaving with waxing now becoming one of the most popular ways to look after your underarm area.
What is waxing?
Waxing is a form of semi-permanent hair removal which removes the hair from the root. New hair will not grow back in the previously waxed area for two to eight weeks and almost every area of the body can be waxed. When getting your underarm area waxed, regular waxing reduces the growth rate of hairs in between treatment sessions, something alternatives like shaving aren't able to do.
Why should you get your underarm waxed?
The hairs under your arm can be very noticeable even when short particularly if you have darker hairs growing in that area. This means regular treatment and maintenance of the area is needed and waxing helps to increase the time needed between each treatment session.
When should you wax your underarm?
There are a number of reasons that you may wish to start waxing your underarm area with the most common including:
Reduce the need for shaving: Shaving of the underarm is a much more frequent treatment for underarm hair problems. Time is the biggest benefit to use waxing over shaving although the end result is also a much better one. You should aim to wax your underarm area every 2 – 4 weeks depending on the growth rate of your hair. Shaving on the other hand can be a daily task for many,
Totally remove underarm hair: Waxing will totally remove your underarm hair, pulling it out by the root. This is something that shaving is unable to do as well as there may still be some small hairs remaining in the armpit depending on the type of blade you use. Think of the "4 o'clock shadow"! Waxing removes the hair, shaving just cuts it shorter.
Prepare yourself for special occasions: Think weddings, formal events and even the all-important Christmas party night. These occasions often require a sleeveless or strapless dress meaning your underarm area is going to be on show. Having some sign of hair or a stubble effect in the underarm can impact on the confidence of many women on occasions like this, so waxing will provide you with a clean and smooth finish, perfect for swinging those arms up in the air and hitting the dancefloor.
Benefits of waxing your underarm
As with anywhere else on the body, waxing your underarms has many benefits. With the hair removed from the root, the growth of new hair slows down. This means that the waxed underarm area can be hair free for anything from two to six weeks. As waxing makes it longer for hair to grow back to the surface, you can look forward to spending less time preparing your underarm each morning and can finally put those blades in the bin.
When hair is pulled out at the root during the waxing process it actually damages the hair follicle resulting in thinner and finer hair growing back in its place (less noticeable in many cases). Therefore it is important to continue with regular treatments of the underarm area as this will result in less growth in the area over time and fewer hairs coming through. While waxing will never provide your underarm area with a permanent hair removal solution, it does however provide an efficient semi-permanent solution.
Benefits of professional waxing of underarms
Many women will try to undertake body waxing themselves and while this is possible for areas like the legs and even bikini area, the underarm area can provide some difficulties if you are wishing to do it yourself. Waxing of the underarm area requires the use of both hands, something which is almost impossible if you plan to do it yourself. Seeking the help of a professional like a beautician will allow the underarm area to be waxed effectively, providing you with best results and less problems.
Getting your underarm area waxed by a beautician also helps your skin in terms of preparation and after care, both important factors in reducing the irritation that can come about from waxing. It's important that the area that is to be waxed in prepared in the right manner as this will help reduce your discomfort as the procedure progresses.
What are the steps to waxing your underarm?
- Preparing the underarm area
Before waxing the underarm area it needs to be properly prepared and the first step is to exfoliate the area and ensure any moisture has been removed. Then apply a cleaner to the area that is to be waxed.
- Waxing your underarm
Once the armpit has been prepared we apply hot wax to the area and get ready to apply the wax strips. The wax is then applied in the direction that the hair is growing and then a wax strip applied. Small areas of your underarm will be waxed for best results and some parts may need to be waxed more than once due to the direction of hair growth in the armpit. The wax strips are removed quickly against the hair and this process is continued until all hair has been removed
- Caring for your underarm after waxing
The after care of waxing is just as important as the treatment itself as we all have different skin types and some people may be more sensitive to the treatment resulting in redness of skin. A cream or Aloe Vera is applied after the treatment to ease this pain under your arm. Tweezers may be used to remove any stray hairs the wax did not remove.
How long will the waxing last for your underarm?
Waxing results will tend to vary from patient to patient as hair grows at different rates for all of us. Once your waxing session has been complete though, you can expect to see results lasting for at least 2 weeks – 4 weeks.
Book your underarm wax today
Waxing is a relatively quick procedure and a full waxing treatment of your underarm will be completed in 10 minutes, making it perfect for those of you with busy lifestyles requiring beauty treatments on the go. It also allows you to plan treatments around your nights out or big events by quickly getting the required area waxed and treated for the big event ahead.
Treatment Time:
10 minutes
Treatment Cost:
Number of Sessions:
4-6 weekly
Book Now


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Model Code17MM
Body StyleSport Utility
This fine automobile has been fully been fully serviced to factory specifications. New state inspection performed, complete oil change with new filter, nitrogen filled tires with one year road hazard tire protection, up to $125.00 per tire replacement. Fully detailed inside and out, with a fresh coat of wax for years of trouble free driving. Call or email for you VIP test drive today.
The 2017 MINI Countryman Cooper has been revamped inside and out. Last year's 1.6L 4-cylinder has been replaced by a brand-new 134-horsepower, 1.5L 3-cylinder engine. Transmissions remain a choice between a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Standard equipment includes such technology as rain-sensing wipers, panoramic sunroof, keyless entry, a rearview camera, dual-zone climate control The upgraded Countryman is the 'S' model. Starting at just under $30,000. The engine offered is a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine making 189 horsepower and paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Upgraded equipment on the S includes 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and fog lights and adaptive suspension dampers. The S is also available with MINI's ALL4 all-wheel drive. MINI offers an array of equipment packages are available to personalize the Countryman. The Convenience Package includes a rear armrest, vehicle alarm, cargo divider and cargo area flip-out seating cushion. The Premium Package offers power-adjustable front seats, a 12-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system and hands-free power liftgate. The Technology package delivers a touchscreen-based navigation system, heads-up display, wireless phone charging and an automated parallel parking system. Dynamic suspension dampers are available as well, a feature usually found on higher-end BMW models. The name 'John Cooper' is synonymous within MINI culture with performance race driving, for which he was famous. MINI offers appearance packages for both the interior and exterior of the Countryman. They include JCW-branded steering wheel, sport seats, special 18-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, additional stability control choices and aerodynamic upgrades. Other available customization options allow the driver to pick from an almost dizzying array of 19-inch wheels, bonnet stripes, roof and mirror caps and a range of interior accent trims.


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Article Title
First Page
Professor Agnor here traces the development of what he suggests is a bad rule of law which originated in a poor decision of a jurisdiction highly respected for its decisions on the law of future interests. The author's demonstration of how the case has been blindly followed by both bench and bar underscores his message that members of the legal profession must not rely on encyclopedic statements of the law without an examination into the policies and problems involved.
Recommended Citation
William H. Agnor,
A Tale of Two Cases,
17 Vanderbilt Law Review
Available at: https://scholarship.law.vanderbilt.edu/vlr/vol17/iss4/4


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Hanger accessories were traditionally worn as large gauge earrings that stretched the lobes that hung over the shoulder. Today, there are numerous types of ear hangers you can add to your everyday look; including thick spirals and U-shaped gauge earrings. Let's take a closer look at these hangers and how you can wear them to achieve your desired look.
What Are Ear Hangers?
Ear hangers are pieces of jewelry that you wear in already-stretched ears. Usually, they hang below the earlobes, hence the name 'hangers'. It is advisable to avoid using these hangers to stretch your ears; because, if they are weighted, they can lead to uneven stretching. Additionally, trying your ears with these can lead to tearing and prevent you from going back to a bit of stretch.
Ear hangers are more of a fashion statement rather than a tool to stretch your ears. Most of them are not very heavy and will not produce the required results. That said, to rock your great ear hangers safely; we usually recommend a minimum plug size of 6mm, which means 2-gauge ear hangers.
Ear Hangers Vs. Ear Weights
Hangers and ear weights tend to look the same, and the terms are sometimes used interchangeably. However, the deciding difference between the two is that ear hangers are hanging earrings for stretched ears; that typically weigh the same as a standard pair of earrings. Ear hangers can be made from several materials but mostly brass or wood; and are usually hooks, spirals, or hoops with dangling decorations.
On the other hand, ear weights are worn inside the earlobes; similar to ear hangers but are heavier. They come in a wide variety of sizes and weights. For instance, a 10mm ear weight can be used for an ear stretch minimum of 10mm and comfortably sit in overstretched ears.
The weight of ear weights usually varies from very light to heavy. A light ear weight can be worn all day comfortably and be barely noticeable; but a heavy ear weight might be too cumbersome for all-day wear. Consequently, you should consider your lobes before picking the best weight and design.
Also Read: How To Put On A Wig – Top 6 Common Steps And Methods
A Simple Guide to Stretching Your Ears
Over the centuries, many people have undergone the process of stretching their ears. However, if you are a beginner and wish to stretch your ears; make sure to consult an expert in a studio. A professional will pierce your ears and direct you to gauge your ears safely until you achieve desirable results.
Furthermore, professionals will provide you with essential tips on how to take care of your ears post-stretching; and train you on what measures to take after getting an ear infection. Alternatively, you can purchase a professional ear stretching kit and easily stretch your ears in the comfort of your home.
Also Read: Wearing Hair Wigs: How To Take Care Of Your Hair At Home
With options ranging from traditional hand-carved bone to hoops and spirals, our ear stretching kit comes with a wide array of ear hangers; in various styles to fit any individual's taste and preferences. You are most likely to get a 14-gauge piercing size but; once you fully decide on ear stretching, you can later upgrade to a size 12 gauge (2mm) taper.
Also Check: How Does Technology Cause Hearing Loss?


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Superslice 100: Best of 2012
Behold, our curated collection of what we found to be some of the best cultural bids of the past year. We opened our virtual doors on May 2011 — 2012 was our first full calendar year. We have grown since then, so the list has also expanded. The previous group of the Best 30 has […]Aaron SimsAckroyd & HarveyAerofexAirPanoAkiraAlex CourtesAlka Balbir
Rapperswil-Jona Municipal Museum Extension / mlzd
Here is Janus, a renovation and expansion of the city museum in Rapperswil-Jona, Switzerland by Swiss architecture group, mlzd. Between the medieval parts of the former Heritage Museum gives a modern building whose folded shell is derived from the openings of the two neighboring buildings. The new building provides the entrance next to the opening up […]ArchitectureMlzdSwitzerland


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Introduction: Rainbow Ambient Clock
Hello Instructables, Hello World.
This is my first ever project here. Hope you like it and sorry for any mistakes.
Here's a clock that not only tells the time, but it also shows temperature and humidity, using colors! Made with a 12 led ring. Helpful for people with poor eye sight that now may be able to tell the time much easier with this device. Also a colorful gadget to decorate and light up a corner in your house.
In time telling, blue led indicate hours, red tens of minutes and yellow unit minutes. If any indications overlap, colors add themselves accordingly as :
- Blue + Yellow = Green
- Blue + Red = Purple
- Red + Yellow = Orange
- Blue + Red + Yellow = White
Every 70 seconds a temperature and humidity display comes up. For temperature a green background is used (red indicates tens and yellow units) and for humidity a teal one (same color indications also). Then follows a rainbow and back to time telling. Note that although temperature and humidity tens use led numbering from top - like minute units, for time tens show up as would in a conventional clock (every two leds). Of course, all these can be changed at will...
Time can be set by pressing the two mini push buttons. By pressing the first one (line A4) you can set the time (blue led) and by pressing the second one (line A5) you can set the minutes (red and yellow leds). Overlap leds change their colors accordingly. If you miss your setting, the whole thing goes round again. By pressing simultaneously both buttons, you may reset seconds (set to zero). A time buffer of 100ms protect buttons from being pressed accidentally.
Step 1: Items Needed...
You will need:
- An Arduino nano (or whichever else you choose) with a usb connection to power up and program
- A 12-bit ring led type WS2812 for display
- An RTC controller to keep your time, type RTC3231, also capable to provide ambient temperature
- An RTH11 sensor for humidity
- Two resistors, 330R + 10K
- Two mini dip switches for setting the time
- Wires to connect everything up
- A breadboard
- Some plexiglass art as shown for the front (.cdr file provided)
I got these parts from ebay :
- Nano 3.0 Controller Board Compatible with Arduino Nano CH340 USB Driver
- 5050 12-Bit RGB LED Ring WS2812 Round Decoration Bulb
- DS3231 AT24C32 IIC module precision Real time clock
- DHT11 Digital Humidity & Temperature Sensor
- 100x DIP Through-Hole 4pin Tactile Tact Push Button Switch Momentary 6x6x5mm DAU
Dip switches come in a set of a 100!!! from ebay. Resistors can be purchased from your local electronics parts store, as also from ebay.
Cables and breadboard can too be found on ebay or a retail electronics shop.
Proposed plexiglass for face, as suggested here, can be ordered from a local cutting facility using the provided .cdr file:
Step 2: Schematics and Programing...
You may build this project in several ways according to schematics.
A breadboard can be used, but you can also glue all parts (boards) behind the ring led and its face in a sandwich like fashion separated by double side adhesive tape (photos of this will come up here soon). One may also build his/her own printed board to host all parts.
I have chosen to use a usb embedded arduino nano for the ease of providing power to the unit. A smaller and more compact version could be built using a USB to TTL converter like this one below from ebay, but you would have to find an alternate way to provide power (5Volts) because after programing the arduino, the TTL converter has to go:
- Pro USB2.0 To TTL 6Pin CH340G Converter + Mini Module Atmega328 5v 16M F Arduino
Programing file contains annotations for your understanding.
There are several libraries for DS3231 out there, so I am providing here the one that I use. Also note that you may find a version of DHT11 that already includes R1 (usually sits on a small board and is not a raw component). In such a case omit R1.
So you bring together all parts as shown and program your arduino with your computer. If you decide to use the mini module without the usb port, you can afterwards disconnect and remove the TTL adapter. Doing so saves you space and power.
Actual code:

#include //I2C communication library
#include "ds3231.h" //Real Time Clock library #include //Fast Led library #include //DHT humidity-temperature sensor

#define LED_PIN 5 //Control pin for LEDs #define COLOR_ORDER GRB //Define color protocol #define CHIPSET WS2811 //Chipset set for WS2811 #define NUM_LEDS 12 //Declare number of leds #define BRIGHTNESS 35 //Declare led brightness

dht DHT; //Initialize DHT #define DHT11_PIN 2 //Data pin for DHT

CRGB leds[NUM_LEDS]; //Acknoledge number of leds to system

byte ora ; //Hour variable byte mindec ; //Ten minutes variable byte minmon ; //Unit minutes variable byte seconds = 0; //Seconds variable int counter1; //Counter variable for data show int idex = 0; //Variable for rainbow index int ihue = 0; //Variable for rainbow hue float temperature; //Temperature variable int humidity; //Humidity variable

void setup() { FastLED.addLeds(leds, NUM_LEDS); FastLED.setBrightness( BRIGHTNESS ); Serial.begin(9600); //Initialize serial port Wire.begin(); //Initialize I2C communication library DS3231_init(0x00); //Initialize Real Time Clock for 1Hz square wave output pinMode(8, INPUT); //Set pin for time/date mode button to input digitalWrite(8, HIGH); //Turn on pullup resistors pinMode(9, INPUT); //Set pin for time/date set button to input digitalWrite(9, HIGH); //Turn on pullup resistors //Initialize system with a rainbow for(int i=0; i<12; i++) {rainbow();} for(int j=0; j<12; j++) {leds[j]=CRGB::Black;FastLED.delay(100);} }

void loop(){ if((DS3231_get_addr(0x0E) & 0x20) == 0){DS3231_init(0x20);} //Init temperature sensor temperature = DS3231_get_treg(); //Get temperature from RTC struct ts t; //Structure for retrieving and storing time data from RTC DS3231_get(&t); //Get time to t structure int chk = DHT.read11(DHT11_PIN); //Obtain humidity variable from data line humidity = DHT.humidity; //Get humidity and store to variable mindec=0; //Initialize variable for ten minutes minmon=0; //Initialize variable for unit minutes

 FastLED.clear(); //Clear all display //Displaying actual time if (t.hour>=12){leds[t.hour-12]= CRGB::Blue;ora=t.hour-12;} else { leds[t.hour]= CRGB::Blue; ora=t.hour; } if (t.min<10 && t.min!=0) {leds[t.min]=CRGB::Yellow;minmon=(t.min);} else { mindec=int((t.min/10)*2); minmon=(t.min-((mindec/2)*10)); if (mindec==minmon && minmon!=0){leds[mindec]= CRGB::Orange;} else { leds[mindec] = CRGB::Red ;leds[minmon] = CRGB::Yellow ; //if (minmon==0){leds[minmon] = CRGB::Black;} } } //Correcting overlapping colors/indications if (ora==minmon){leds[ora]=CRGB::Green;} if (ora==mindec){leds[ora]=CRGB::Purple;} if (ora==minmon && ora==mindec){leds[ora]=CRGB::White;} //Toggle seconds to make seconds effect if (seconds==0){ leds[int(t.sec/5)]=CRGB::DimGrey;leds[int(t.sec/5)].nscale8( 64);seconds++; } else { seconds--; } FastLED.show(); delay(800); counter1++; //Increase counter for displaying temp/hum if (counter1>70) { //Time up to display temperature and humidity counter1=0; //Initialize counter for next data show //Display temperature if (temperature<=0){for(int j = NUM_LEDS; j >=0 ; j-- ) {leds[j] = CRGB::White; leds[j].nscale8(64);delay(20);}}//Subzero tempratures appear in white background else {for(int j = NUM_LEDS; j >=0 ; j-- ) {leds[j] = CRGB::Green; leds[j].nscale8(64);delay(20);} } if (temperature<10) {leds[int(temperature)]=CRGB::Yellow;} else {mindec=int((temperature/10)); minmon=(temperature-(mindec*10)); if (mindec==minmon){leds[mindec]= CRGB::Orange;} else {leds[mindec] = CRGB::Red ;leds[minmon] = CRGB::Yellow ; } } FastLED.show(); //Show temperature in green background for 4 secs delay(4000); //Display humidity for(int j = NUM_LEDS; j >=0 ; j-- ) {leds[j] = CRGB::Teal; leds[j].nscale8(48);delay(20);} if (humidity<10) {leds[int(humidity)]=CRGB::Yellow;} else {mindec=int((humidity/10)); minmon=(humidity-(mindec*10)); if (mindec==minmon){leds[mindec]= CRGB::Orange;} else {leds[mindec] = CRGB::Red ;leds[minmon] = CRGB::Yellow ; } } FastLED.show(); //Show humidity in teal background for 4sec delay(4000); //Rainbow effect call for(int i=0; i<12; i++) {rainbow();} for(int j=0; j<12; j++) {leds[j]=CRGB::Black;FastLED.delay(100);} } // Set time using buttons

 if(!digitalRead(8) && digitalRead(9)){ //Increment hour if button held dowm delay(100); //100ms delay to avoid accidental button triggering t.hour = t.hour + 1; //Increment the hour if (t.hour>23){t.hour=0;} Wire.beginTransmission(DS3231_I2C_ADDR); Wire.write(2); Wire.write((t.hour/10*16)+(t.hour%10)); Wire.endTransmission(); }

 if(!digitalRead(9) && digitalRead(8)){ //Increment minutes if button held down delay(100); //100ms delay to avoid accidental button triggering t.min = t.min + 1; //Increment minutes if (t.min>59){t.min=0;} Wire.beginTransmission(DS3231_I2C_ADDR); Wire.write(1); Wire.write((t.min/10*16)+(t.min%10)); Wire.endTransmission(); }

 if(!digitalRead(9) && !digitalRead(8)){ //Reset seconds if both buttons held down delay(100); //100ms delay to avoid accidental button triggering t.sec = 0; //Reset seconds Wire.beginTransmission(DS3231_I2C_ADDR); Wire.write(0); Wire.write((t.sec/10*16)+(t.sec%10)); Wire.endTransmission(); }

}

void rainbow() //Rainbow function { idex++; ihue=ihue+22; if(idex>=NUM_LEDS){idex=0;} if(ihue>=255){ihue=0;} leds[idex]=CHSV(ihue,255,255); FastLED.show(); FastLED.delay(100); }

Step 3: Finalizing the Clock!
Two marbles like the ones shown can be glued behind the two front legs of the plexiglass to keep the clock standing. Tilt may be adjusted to fit your taste and viewing angle. The standing clock shown above uses this principle. It also uses a nano-mini without the usb controller and the much smaller DS3231 without the memory chip (it also includes a rechargeable battery for time keeping). A simple smart phone charger of 5 volts is used to supply power to the unit.
Fritzing project file also provided for the ones that would be interested to make a printed board for their clock (Parts could be adjusted and moved around at will according to your needs). Project includes schematics and code.
May we all have HAPPY HOURS !!!
Participated in the
Tech Contest
Participated in the
Time Contest
Participated in the
Make It Glow! Contest


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Thorn Fit Kettlebell Rubber Black Keychain
- The most trendy key decoration created for everyone who loves kettlebell. The popular theme of the kettlebell in a rubber version, check it out!
This 20 kg kettlebell keychain is a real hit when it comes to gadgets. A small thing that will make you never forget your favorite weights :)
The unique shape resembling kettlebell 20 kg is the perfection hidden in simplicity. Thanks to the use of high quality elastic, thick rubber, the keyring will survive virtually everything! It's a great way to decorate your keys, but it will also be a great addition to your backpack. Mount the kettlebell where you want thanks to the classic fastening! - let them know that you like to lift :)
- Rubber elastic material guarantees mega quality,
- grooved elements imitating a kettlebell weight,


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• VIEWINGS: By appointment text or call – Kat 027 528 2746
• TO DOWNLOAD PROPERTY DOCUMENTS: bit.ly/4DouglasRdDocuments
• TO VIEW THE 360 VIRTUAL TOUR ON MOBILE DEVICE: bit.ly/360Virtual4DouglasRd
Sitting proudly on a large 809 sqm (approx) corner section, there are great spaces for all to enjoy from the garden to the garaging to the mountain views from this elevated 1960's home. The abundant fruit trees and established gardens provide privacy from the generous decking areas for al fresco dining!
• Three sunny bedrooms with built in robes
• Modern kitchen with open plan dining
• Family living area with sunroom and access to the balcony
• Separate free standing studio room
• Massive basement garaging and workshop space plus off street parking
• Year Built: CIRCA 1960's
• Freehold Title 809 sqm
• Floor area 150 sqm
• NCC Rates approx $2,669.30 per annum
• Desktop Rental Appraisal $540-$565 per week
**REGISTER FOR NEW LISTING ALERTS: bit.ly/kcandcobuyeralerts
Please be aware that this information may have been sourced from RPNZ/ Property Guru/ Land Information New Zealand/ Local Council and we have not been able to verify the accuracy of the same.
Kat Campbell & Co. Real Estate Limited Licensed Agent REAA 2008
- Bedrooms: 3
- Bathrooms: 1
- Living Rooms: 1
- Garage: 2
- Land Area: 809 Square metres
- Floor Area: 150 Square metres
- Wall oven and hob
- Dishwasher
- Fixed floor coverings
- Drapes
- Blinds
- Light fittings
- Heatpump
- Heat transfer
- Heated towel rail
- Bathroom heater
- Bathroom extractor
- ECO Panel heaters x 2
- Work bench in garage
Please submit your details to gain access to the documents of this property.


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The Great Big Green Week is probably the largest series of community events ever organised to focus on climate and nature in the UK.
So… here in the village we are having our own Great Big Green Day on September 18th!
We will be celebrating how groups in the village , and the Parish Council, are taking action to tackle climate change, protect our green spaces ,and care for our planet and its biodiversity.
Over twenty local groups will be taking part, and the morning will have activities and displays in the precinct, along with the official opening of our wonderful Community Fridge. You can have a go on a smoothie bike and enjoy Fairtrade refreshments at the Salvation Army.
The afternoon is a great chance to visit places all over the village to see what different groups are doing, and we can all end up at the Community Centre for tea and cakes.
You might like to visit the allotments or Brookside, or a new wildflower garden for example, and there is a quiz to do as you go round with activities for all ages.
We have an interactive map which will guide you round the sites and give you more information.
So… go to Our Great Big Green Day page to use the interactive map, or download a printable map below, then you can join in!
Look out on social media for the hashtag #PillOGBGD to stay up to date with what is happening on the day!