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Senator Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi represents Kaduna North Senatorial District of Kaduna State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was a guest of a recent media chat on Liberty Television Kaduna where he lampooned the administration of Governor Nasir Ahmad el-Rufai for brainwashing members of the public with falsehood over the rejected loan. He pulled the rug off the feet of the state government when he disclosed that the loan, contrary to claims by state government officials, was never for the development of the state infrastructures, among other issues. Below is the transcript of the interview, as monitored by ISHAKU YOHANNA
The Senate unanimously rejected the request by the Kaduna State Government to borrow $350 million from the World Bank. What informed the resolution of the lawmakers?
You need to know the procedure for accessing and viability of such request is an objective procedure. One erroneous fact I wish to correct quickly is that the decision to reject the loan was only hinged on the decision of the three senators from Kaduna. No, it was the decision of the entire Senate. The Senate comprises 109 elected representatives, and each, on their own honour , is in that chamber to objectively make decisions they believe tally with their conscience. The decision to reject that loan was a decision of the entire Senate. It was only coincidence that the Senate was on the same page on the need to reject the loan request. So, we the three senators from Kaduna State need to be given a pat on the back, as we did toe the line of saying: 'Nasiru is my brother, and that since he is the governor, I should tally along the line that my brother wants'. It was a decision based on our conscience; based on objective analysis of the needs, the necessity, and the capacity for the borrower to offset the amount in question. The President of the Senate has clearly given reasons why the loan request was rejected. One of them is that from 1960 to 2018, the loan portfolio of Kaduna state stood at $231 million. Regardless of what has been borrowed and what has been paid over time, the loan stood at $231 million, making Kaduna State the second highest most indebted among the 36 states. If the state is allowed to borrow $350 million, you would then have a total debt burden of almost $700 million! The Senators viewed the fact that if such loan is approved, the debt profile will be excruciating for the state. One of the gauges is to determine whether or not the borrower has the capacity to borrow and offset what he has to pay or what the state has to pay and yet do the minimum primary obligations that is necessary for the state. All parameters and measurements were returned negative against the indices of reasons for borrowing $350 million.
Now, the Senate is not in the position to say, "Okay, it is too much, now let us give you $100 million." No! The credit numbers of the two loans from the World Bank put together $350 million to finance one and the same thing for five years. Another reason is that the state lacks the capacity to repay without plunging into serious problem. Even if the governor is reelected, he will only serve for another four years, and then another government will come and be faced with the consequences of the lack of capacity and ability to do two things together: one, the basic obligations of state; and then servicing the same loan. There are so many reasons but these are on the frontline.
From your submission, it will seem that you found a basis for not approving the loan. Coincidentally, the Federal Government, which is the platform that the state is using to access this loan and your colleagues in the House of Representatives, went through these same documents for the loan request and found it sufficient enough to okay it. Why is it difficult for the Senate to toe the same line?
You have answered your question, because the two situations you have put have different obligations. The Federal Government is not obliged to access the loan. That is why the Constitution bestowed it on the National Assembly to do. You cannot be the borrower; be the spender and at the same time be the one to test whether what has been done is worth what has been borrowed. It's a division of labour. So, the Federal Government is not responsible for that. And that is part of the reason why the National Assembly decides with those parameters. Mark you, part of the indices of gauging the loan request comes from the Executive – the DMO (Debt Management Office). How much does Kaduna state owe?; how much does Lagos State owe?; how much does Oyo owe?? All these are facts that are available at the DMO. Part of what I have told you now is from the report coming from the DMO and the DMO is just a section or unit under the Ministry of Finance. Hence, part of what we used to gauge it is definitely from the Executive. Borrowing is not the issue, but what the money is put to use.
Governor el-Rufai had said the state government has satisfied the World Bank conditions for the loan. Why did the Senate turn it down?
When you come back to the money, how is it going to be utilized? The drawdown is broken into five years; and within this five years, Kaduna State Government is not only rushing, but running to spend $170 million out of the $350 million in the first year. Why the rush? Government is a continuous process; so, why the rush? Could it be for development of course? No! Since the scope of the drawdown of the loan is five years, why the rush to spend $170 million in one year?
Secondly, the Kaduna State Government, using the media, has brainwashed the general public that this loan is going to be repaid in 50 years. I tell you that it is a lie. The loan repayment schedule is 25 years. So, why lie to the general public? Why lie to the State Assembly; why lie to the National Assembly? Thirdly, on the application of the funds, I have shown here the schedule of drawdown in five years in 11 different catchments. These 11 different catchments totaled $350 million. Yet, we have been told that schools are to be renovated; schools are to be built; roads are to be constructed; some are to be rehabilitated. I have not seen in any of the 11 schedules of drawdown the narration that so and so amount would be applied for road construction. Why another lie again?
Here is the loan agreement (pointing at some of loan documents); it is an official document. This is the financing agreement of that loan between Kaduna State Government and the World Bank. These are facts that have been enumerated. Why is Kaduna State Government lying to the public? Why are they presenting application of funds as if the $350 million would be spent on infrastructure, while actually the entire spending is in three parastatals, and all of them are appendages to the office of the Governor? KADGIS is one of them; the Revenue Board under the Governor's Office is another; and then the office of the Special Adviser. Where are the projects? How does KADGIS build roads? How does Internal Revenue Service of the state build schools? Definitely somebody somewhere is fooling members of the public! (Pointing to documents on the loan agreement), Here is the division, one after the other. And item one says 'Simplify business process; reduction in the time required to start a business deal with construction permit and register properties.' That is under KADGIS, and N7.6 billion will be spent for ease of doing business under KADGIS to register property. How much was spent in establishing AGIS as a digital registry in Abuja? How much did Nasarawa State Government built and now operating a digital land registry? As KADGIS is today, it has been upgraded already. So, why are we spending N7.6 billion, to do that? What they have told the general public is simply a coated lie; that is not what has been provided in the financing agreement.
People might have been surprised that being in the Senate, that perhaps you know better than the governor the requirements that need to be met for such a loan to be granted, which make them feel that there should have been consultations between you and the Kaduna State Government as a form of guide to the government to access the loan. Was there any consultation?
Even if there was in the first instance, we would have advised that $350 million loan is too much for what Kaduna state can carry. However, I was not contacted. Two, even if they agree to borrow less, still it is on us to guide and make sure the application of those funds would be as indicated. Three, like my colleagues have asked: if you talk of roads, how many would be buil tin Kaduna Central, and the zone I belong? Don't I deserve to ask? If you are going to build seven roads and you ended up concentrating five in one area, and my zone has two, while the other zone has none; is that fair? The people need to ask such questions and the government is duty bound to tell the people the truth. The little they told people was lies, and I have proven that to you.
One of your responsibilities as lawmakers is on oversight function. You are not the chairman of the committee on foreign and local debts, but it is the responsibility of the Senate to interface with government officials with a view to harmonize their positions. Why are you now talking about some of the lapses in the media instead of addressing…
(Cuts in…) The duty of the National Assembly does not include aiding the borrowing agencies in documentation. You have just said that one of the responsibilities of the National Assembly is to oversight, but that does not extend to projects that are done in the states. The State Assembly is duty bound to do that. So, you should ask why the State Assembly allowed this to happen.
But did you make any effort to reach out?
There is nothing wrong in making effort to reach out, but the onus is on the state government to reach out to us. That is the way it should be. Like I have said, if you go advising someone who did not solicit your advice, the likely thing is that your unsolicited advice may resort to another thing. It might be said that you have another motive. So, what do you say? But some of these issues were raised during discussions. But for them to feel the amount they require; the amount they want to borrow, and the application of the amount, and they feel the advice of the National Assembly may not be necessary; so, they are in a better position to answer this question.
Based on your explanation, and considering the fact this loan request was to be approved by the National Assembly, it seems there wasn't consultations between the State government and members of the National Assembly from Kaduna State before the request was sent to the Senate for approval?
The state government does not send to the National Assembly; the request is received from the Office of Mr. President. But usually there is always a gap between what the law provides and sense. What you have said would have mitigated some of the pitfalls. You are all living witnesses; there is no amount of blackmail that the Kaduna state had not done to force us into approving the loan request. But unknown to them, there is no amount of blackmail that can make me to mortgage myself, my children, my grand children, and that is what the loan is all about.
On one of the social media platforms of the Governor, he accused you and your colleagues of political frustration, as he put it, to go against the interest of the people of Kaduna state. What is your reaction?
What is frustration; who is frustrated? I want to understand the meaning of frustration here? We would see who is frustrated. Under the present scenario, who is frustrated? I did not originate the loan request; neither did I process the request. So, how am I frustrated? I only acted like a referee will do; a yellow card and at the end a red card!
Was it a tit-for-tat thing?
My people are happy that the loan was rejected. I represent a people; they elected me, and I tell you they are happy. I am their representative, so I tell you that what I have done is in tune, is in line with the wish and feelings of the majority of the people who sent me to the Senate.
Were there meetings between you and them?
Yes, there were many. I have had different encounters with my people about this loan. We have received a lot of letters and delegations from our constituencies concerning this loan. But put that aside, it is not about Senator Hunkuyi, Shehu Sani, or Danjuma La'ah, but about the conscience of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that has a constitutional responsibility to gauge, to measure, to protect the general public from falling into what is likely be as another colonization after the colonial rule. When you make the general public to swallow a pin they cannot contain, that to me is unacceptable.
I don't know how you can explain the feeling or impression that the people have that the rift between the two of you senators who belong to the same ruling party with the governor; that if it continues it will cost the state a lot in terms of development..
(Cuts in..) No, no, I don't think so; don't go there, after all, the Governor is a very powerful person; the office of the Governor very, very powerful; somebody who carries bulldozer to demolish people's houses. Very, very powerful indeed, while a Senator is only a representative of the people, and we are suffering like the rest of Kaduna people are suffering. However, there is nothing extraordinary when we do things that are required of us to do under the given laws of the land.


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*** The May Board Meeting has been moved to Wednesday, April 26th ***
Monthly Downtown Neighborhood Association Board Meeting, generally held on the first Wednesday of each month. Locations vary.
Interested in presenting to the Board during a meeting or have a topic you would like DNA to address? Contact us at email@example.com.

subset: commoncrawl


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Leadership Lessons from Luke 3.18-20
A leader's aim is to deliver vision that brings good news to people. The motive behind the vision should always be to benefit the lives of others. Anything less than this only serves the selfish ambition of the individual sharing vision.
Leaders also realize that in the midst of sharing the good news, there will be some who will oppose you on what you bring. Some will not understand and others will not want to understand. They choose to ignore your vision because it wreaks damage to theirs.
As a result of you being led by God to bring hope you now find yourself locked away. Perhaps not physically as John was but you find yourself having encountered a roadblock to getting the message out to others.
Your voice to many has been silenced by a few.
Your stance against the atrocities of others has put you behind bars, so to speak. You find yourself unable to move, leaving you in a prison of self doubt. Did God really speak to me? Where did I go wrong? Why is this happening to me?
Your influence has been severely diminished.
Perhaps the lesson from these two verse is found in realizing that we only play a small part of the overall vision. John got the message out. His role was coming to an end. As leaders we do well to understand that we have just a piece of the message.
Have you ever felt locked up, unable to adequately bring forth the entire vision? What did that feel like?
How does knowing that we have only a piece of the message encourage us in our walk?
This entry was posted in Faith, Leadership and tagged Ambition, Damage, Encourage, Message, Prison, Selfish, Vision.


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Ryan Douglas Invited to Spotlight Emergent Growth Technologies at 2018 U.S. Cannabis Conference & ExpoIndustry News
Ryan Douglas, President of Manizales-headquartered Ryan Douglas Cultivation, LLC, an emerging regional leader in the legal cannabis space, is a featured speaker and panelist at the 2018 U.S. Cannabis Conference & Expo, being held August 24-26th in Miami.
Ryan Douglas Invited to Speak at 2018 Cannabis Learn Conference & ExpoIndustry News
Mr. Douglas is a featured speaker in two panels, where he will examine regulatory issues, technology innovations and investment trends in the evolving legal cannabis marketplace.
Ryan Douglas Presents "The Export Opportunity: Five Tips for Cultivators of Colombian Cannabis" at ExpoMedeWeed 2017Industry News
The 2017 International Medical Cannabis Fair gathers regional and international specialists in cannabis research, policy and commerce.


text: Contact the Source We are very grateful for your visit to our business. Please let us know how we can help you. If you do not hear back from us within 24 hours, please phone us at 970-748-8436 (Vail Colorado). ContactUs General Contact Form Name First Last Email Tell us about your business - what you doWhat do you want your web site to do for you? Provide information Sell Products Allow me to update parts of it on my own Other things (you can tell us more) Other things you want your web site to do


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9 P.M. (13); 10 P.M. (49) SISTER ROSETTA THARPE: THE GODMOTHER OF ROCK & ROLL From the 1940s through the '60s, Ms. Tharpe (1915-73), above, accompanying herself on a newly electrified guitar, introduced spiritual passion into the secular world of rock 'n' roll and inspired stars like Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and Little Richard. "American Masters" begins its 27th season with this chronicle of Ms. Tharpe's life, from her impoverished childhood as the daughter of cotton pickers in Arkansas and her adolescence in Chicago, where she developed her distinctive performing style in church, to her move to New York. There she caught the eye of Cab Calloway and Duke Ellington through songs laden with sexual innuendo at the Cotton Club and Café Society. But soon she returned to her gospel roots and drew packed houses throughout the United States and Europe. Directed by Mick Csaky, this documentary merges archival performance footage with new interviews with Joe Boyd, the tour manager of the 1964 American Folk, Blues and Gospel Caravan; Howard Carroll of the Dixie Hummingbirds; Roxie Moore, a lifelong friend; and Gayle Wald, a Tharpe biographer.
NOON (Hallmark) MARIE In an Oscar-related episode, Marie Osmond interviews Shirley Jones about her career and her coming memoir. Kym Douglas, a lifestyle expert, peeks inside award show gift bags. Scott Mantz, the "Access Hollywood" film critic, shares his predictions for this year's Academy Awards. And Jeanne Benedict of DIY Network's "Weekend Entertaining" offers Oscar party tips.
2:45 P.M. (HBO) RED RIDING HOOD (2011) Amanda Seyfried, below, boogieing down in a bacchanal that's more Burning Man than Bruegel, portrays the young woman in the red cloak as a natural-born killer in this adult adaptation of the fairy tale, directed by Catherine Hardwicke. Julie Christie is Red's grandmother, rocking the screen in dreadlocks. And Gary Oldman is Father Solomon, a religious zealot summoned to vanquish the computer-generated wolf. "The suggestion that Red Riding Hood might be as much predator as prey isn't new," Manohla Dargis wrote in The New York Times. "She may be the intended victim, but she's also the one who (after sizing up the wolf in bed) ends triumphant. It's this blurring between the antagonists as well as the flexibility of the story's morals and meanings that make it work well for different readers and writers."
8 P.M. (LMN) WINTER'S BONE (2010) Jennifer Lawrence received her first Oscar nomination for this role as Ree Dolly, a teenager living in the Ozarks of southwestern Missouri who goes in search of her meth-cooking father after he puts up the family home to cover his bail and disappears. But her efforts to find him place her in a terrible dilemma: either betray the code of silence that keeps her clan proudly on the wrong side of the law, or face destitution. John Hawkes, left, plays her uncle, whose silent menace soon erupts into violence, though he's more compassionate than most. The harshness in Debra Granik's "regional-realist morality tale," based on the novel by Daniel Woodrell, "is not there to illuminate a sociological condition," A. O. Scott wrote in The Times. "Something more primal, almost Greek in its archaic power, is at stake in 'Winter's Bone,' and its visual and emotional starkness do no not feel like simple badges of authenticity." He added, "In Ms. Lawrence's watchful, precise and quietly heroic performance, Ree is like a modern-day Antigone, making ethical demands that are at once entirely coherent and potentially fatal." The film's setting, Mr. Scott said, "is finally subordinate to the main character, as memorable and vivid a heroine as you are likely to see on screen this season."
10 P.M. (NBC) ROCK CENTER WITH BRIAN WILLIAMS Dr. Nancy Snyderman reports on male Marines with breast cancer who believe that their disease was caused by contaminated drinking water at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. Kate Snow travels to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in China, where a fertility clinic is used to help save this species from extinction. And Chelsea Clinton visits the author Judy Blume in Key West, Fla., to discuss the adaptation of her book "Tiger Eyes" into a feature film.
1 A.M. (13) THEATER TALK In "Top Casting Directors Explain It All," James Calleri, Tara Rubin and Bernie Telsey discuss their profession as "gatekeepers" to getting parts. They also reveal a secret to becoming a working actor. KATHRYN SHATTUCK


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Avoiding Germs in the Gym - Seven Simple Steps/
Eww, gross. That phrase is often heard (or thought) in gyms and it becomes a reason many people avoid working out at a gym. But seven simple steps will keep the germs in check. Plus, remember that exercise improves your immune system. Even if you are exposed to a few germs at the gym, you are still healthier in the long-run for going.
1. The most effective advice outside the gym is most effective in the gym. Do not touch your face. (Admitted, this can be a challenge if you have sweat sliding toward your eyes.)
2. Based on the first tip, bring your own face towel to wipe your face. Even if your gym provides towels, you don't know how (or by whom) they have been handled, so at least for your face, bring your own.
3. Before you get on the exercise equipment with your personal towel, use the disinfecting spray and gym-provided towel (see number five) to wipe down any areas hands usually touch. Bars and control boards are the most common.
4. If someone is coughing and sneezing, avoid them by at least three feet. If the gym is small, that may mean switching the order of your workout. Usually do weights first and there's a someone dripping their runny nose on the bench press? Time to head to the treadmills.
5. If your gym does not provide disinfecting spray and cleaning towels, talk to management about how you come to the gym to get healthy.
6. Oh, we must talk about the gym mats and carpet. Nasty, smelly, germ-containers that you don't notice until you are doing a push-up with your nose a couple of inches from them. No problem. Either go to a hard surface which does not trap as many germs or bring your own mat.
7. The locker room is a treasure-trove of germs. Here are two essentials. First, wash your hands thoroughly, especially before touching your face to apply make-up or shave your face. Second, never let your feet touch the floor to avoid athlete's foot and toenail fungus. Wear your "beach shoes" even in the shower and steam room.
These basic tips have proven central to staying well at the gym. The shoe tip became personal when working at a high-end gym. (Side note - germs do not discriminate by monthly dues.) I went into the steam room without shoes. I came out with athlete's foot. Learn from my mistake.
Follow these simple steps - even when you are not at the gym - and avoid the germs.


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Looking for a Security Camera Company? Consider the Following Factors.
There have been several cases of theft in different business premises, one way to improve the security around your business premises is through installation of security cameras. Despite the many options of security camera companies in the market, business owner find it overwhelming to pick one company. The tips below can ease your search when looking for a reputable video surveillance company.
Some business owners want cameras that they can install outside their business, while other prefer camera they can use indoors, ensure the company have the security cameras that you need. Also, the cameras should operate reliably in harsh conditions, whether it is a place there is dust or too much heat or during the rainy season.
What services can the security camera offer your business? You can call the company and inquire the features of their security camera. Can you listen to the audio from the recordings of the camera? If your business covers a large area, ensure the company has cameras for such a business. There are business that will need cameras that are big and visible as a way of alerting people they are been watched so that they don't steal. Go for a company who main goals is to meet the security needs for various businesses.
Before you settle for a company, ensure the company is registered and licensed. You can request for the copy of the licenses from the company. Also, check if the staff at the company doing the security camera installation are well trained and equipped.
Another thing you should look out for it's the reviews that have been done on the company. Most clients will leave reviews and testimonies on the company's website ensure you check them. Satisfied customers will always leave positive customer testimonies. Also, check if there are any complains that have been filed against the company on reputable business bureaus websites.
How easily accessible is the company? Sometimes the security cameras may have issues, a reputable company will give you contacts that you can contact them with. The will also have technicians on standby to have a look at them.
Does the company issue a warranty for their security cameras? It is advisable to not deal with a company that does not give warranties after they install for you the cameras. It is important to also check the duration of the warranty, the longer the duration the better.
Are there other clients that the company has worked with in the past? Once you call the security camera company past clients, the response they will give you will help you in knowing what to expect if you settle for the company.
What is your budget for the security cameras? It is advisable to ask for quotes from other reputable companies then compare, choose a company that is within your budget.
Incredible Lessons I've Learned About Solutions
If You Think You Get Security, Then This Might Change Your Mind


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At this time, we're looking for articles on these eras: Medieval, Renaissance, Regency, Teens and 20th c Vintage eras, but welcome articles from other periods as well.
We particularly welcome articles on these topics
Content should be at the advanced level, but accessible and well explained. It must have references to period sources, eg archive.org, museum examples, etc.
The articles must concentrate on ultra-practical how-tos. It needs to be advanced: 33% of readers have over 20 yrs experience, half describe themselves as "pretty advanced". The content should be new and not yet published in another form (website, print)
Current payment rates are UK£60 (currently US$100) per article.
Articles should be at least 2-3000 words long and 25-30 pictures apiece. A single article or a series would be fine.


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Keeping up with the Joneses!
I was so excited to have a session with Steve, Tess, and their kids last week! They just moved into their amazing house over the summer and decided it was time to get family photographs. What a rainy day! It poured all day long. We worked mostly indoors. The techniques I learned at a recent workshop worked great! Their house is a photographer's heaven! It is beautiful! The colors, hardwood floors, and furniture amazed me! Tess is a talented decorator!
With a little coaxing and a treat we were able to get Buster (who hates pictures!) to look at the camera!
The kids and I spent some time having fun in their rooms! Look at those eyes!
Both have really cool lights!
Amazingly, the rain stopped for just a little bit and we headed outside to have some fun!
Then it started pouring again so we went back inside for pictures of the kids with their instruments. I love the dramatic lighting!
Mom and Dad lookin' pretty good!!!
You guys are so much fun! Thanks for letting me spend the evening with you! Here's your slideshow. Hope you enjoy! (Can you tell they are VT fans!!!)


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Find venues available for hire for fashion shows in Port Seton whether you're looking for something elegant, chic, or fashionable. You'll find small boutique event space perfect for unusual styles, function room hire for charity fashion show events and prestigious venues that engender a certain air of exclusivity, sophistication and class.
1 Fashion Show Venues in Port Seton, East Lothian, Scotland
© Copyright 2004-2019 - Company Registered in England & Wales - Company Number 3799991


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Ferry Point Park
Park Map
This map is designed to represent parks as they are used by the public. It should not be used to represent the legal boundaries of property under Parks jurisdiction. If you would like to view all City property under the jurisdiction of NYC Parks, please visit NYC OpenData.
Directions to Ferry Point Park
- Ferry Point Team Honored As Commissioner's Employees Of The Month
- Ferry Point Golf Course Construction Completed
- New Forest Site at Ferry Point Park Benefits from Global Coca-Cola Enterprises Sustainability Week


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High Speed Automatic Instant Noodle Horizontal Packing Machine
QNS720 single Servo Control Packaging Machine
This machine is suitable for automatic packaging of instant noodles, rice noodles, vermicelli and other five bags and bags of large bags, also suitable for large bags of soup, biscuits, medicine, etc.
Main technical data:
Capacity:20-60 packs/minute(as per Packaging film material, thickness and packaging specification)
Packing size:(QNF720B)length 150-400mm,width 80-215mm,height 50-140mm
(QNF820B)length 150-400mm,width80-305mm,height 50-140mm
Total length:(QNF720B) length * width * height,6730mm*1310mm*1480mm
(QNF820B) length * width * height,6730mm*1560mm*1480mm
Power consumption:4.24kw, single phase 220V,50Hz
Net weight:(QNF720B)1100kgs
Mechanical Features:
1. High precision, high efficiency, save manpower.
2. The machine finishes the whole procedure of feeding, weighing, bag making, date printing, air charging (exhausting), outputting.
3. New design with perfect fashion, more reasonable structure, more advanced technology.
4. Imported PLC control system, colorful touch screen, easy operation, intuitionist and efficient.
5. Imported servo film drawing system and color sensors, accurate positioning, and superexcellent capability for complete machine, perfect packaging.
6. With auto warning protection function to minimized loss.
Our Mission:
To provide a More Cost Efficient Solution for our customers. Suitable is the Best Way, Best for customers, for local market and even for our future. We treat it as our responsibilty in every business.
Our Culture:
To be Professional and Progress together. We treat every staffs as a family member, We learned, We shared and We worked together to reach our goals. We will be better and better as long as we ALL progress together every minutes. A little change everyday makes a big difference someday.
Vermicelli Horizontal Flow Wrap Packing Machine QNS720 Single Servo Control Images


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The photo at the top of this post is of my family and me during one of our past Christmases. Christmas takes different shapes for different people different years. Today we identify five different types of Christmases and what they look like. As you read about them, see if you recognize yours.
1) The Going to Dad and Mom's Christmas
On the way to Dad and Mom's, your stream of consciousness sounds something like this: "I'm bored already and we're not even there yet. The Cavs play the Heat tomorrow, and I won't see it. I wonder if any bad blood will boil over. I hope Dad doesn't bug me about my job. Battle of the 5 Armies is out. No chance we'll see that. I hope he doesn't tell me why he thinks libertarians are "clueless." Yeah, "clueless." That was the word he used last time. I think I have one of the Lord of the Rings movies on my phone–maybe, if I sit at the table and hold my phone low…"
2) The People Coming Over Christmas
Oh those three words, people-coming-over, and what they mean. The People Coming Over Christmas means, do these things, and do them fast: Clean the house. Fix the broken doorknob. Run to the store and buy a new doorknob because you couldn't fix the broken doorknob. Hide the Continue reading


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Spiritual Nutrition 101: The Basics
Wed June 8th
Learn what spiritual nutrition is and how eating a more plant-based diet can benefit your health and energy.
This workshop will feature the basics of adopting a mindful eating practice and discuss nutrient bio-availability, the role of enzymes and probiotics, the truth about sugar and the many forms it's disguised as and feature easy ways to sneak fruits and vegetables into your current dietary habits so the change from meats, dairy and acidic foods isn't so drastic.
We will also discuss the problems with "smoothies" and why they are not as healthy as you may think and how to make them alkaline so that you can achieve the health benefits you're looking for.
Healthful refreshments will served and an alkaline smoothie will be made and the recipe given.
Spiritual Nutrition: The Architecture of a Salad
Sat June 25th
If you could find more excitement in a salad you would probably eat more raw veggies, right?
Many people think salads are boring.. .lettuce, a tomato, maybe some slices of onion and ranch or Italian dressing. And we agree! That IS boring!!!
This workshop covers the proper way to construct a wildly exciting salad filled with color, nutrition, enzymes, favors and even plant-based PROTEIN!!! Lots of it! There is a formula for creating salads that sizzle and offer nutrient dense alternatives to dead, nutrient-void foods. We will even show you how to make salads that stay fresh for ON-THE-GO lifestyles!
We will actually make a salad for you to sample and see how easy it is to include more plants into your current lifestyle without feeling bummed about your meal.
Space is limited.
Please register in advance to secure your spot in this workshop.
You must register for this workshop.


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Its almost that time of the year again! Here's a list of things to do before the start of Ramadan to ensure maximum productivity and benefit:
1- Make a list for EVERYTHING. Including:
Grocery lists! I cannot begin to explain how many headaches, heartaches and stomach aches this has prevented! Buy everything except fresh produce in bulk; such as wheat, rice, sugar and flour.
Activities you want to take part in such as charity events, lectures, seminars, workshops, study groups
Areas in your life you want to work on and reform on the spiritual, physical, personal level
Your reflections on last Ramadan and how you would like to improve this time around inshaAllah
2- Start memorizing, revising and researching. Memorize more of the Quran and start revising what you have already memorized. This will definitely make your Taraweeh/Tahajjud more special, more so if you are studying the translation or tafseer as you go. Remember that a little goes a long way! Contact your local Imam in case you have any doubts or questions, and do some research yourself by reading Fiqh books that explain the rulings in a simplistic manner.
3- Cut down on garbage: Music, movies, television, magazines and immoral books will be a definite barrier between you and serious spiritual reform. Give yourself a break and cut down on screen time; including social websites such as Facebook and Twitter. Know your weaknesses and keep yourself busy to avoid getting into difficult circumstances and situations. Fasting is all about consciousness.
4- Plan a study circle with your friends to revise, memorize, contemplate, or to take notes on a recorded lecture series. It would be preferable to plan this at the time of the day when your energy level is low so that you don't find yourself dozing off until Maghrib salah, or worse, fixed in front of the brain-freezing television set.
5- Find healthy recipes and resolve to eat moderately. Baked appetizers, soups and salads are a much better choice especially if you want to stay active and energetic for extra 'Ibadah.
6- Fasting in Sha'ban as preparatory 'Ibadah. Its like warm up before exercise.
7- Pray more Nawafil. Take extra care to incorporate the Sunnah prayers in your day such as two before Fajr, four before and two after Dhuhr, two after Maghrib and two after 'Isha. Memorize du'as for your Witr prayers and make it special.
8- Make a list of du'as you want to make. Remember that you are beseeching the King of Kings and He does not tire of answering you. Remember to pray for the Ummah, your family and loved ones.
9- Buy all necessities before hand such as 'Eid clothes and gifts. Clean out your closets and give away what you do not need. Clear up your kitchen and if preferred, freeze some food for emergency iftars.
10- Plan an act of charity per day with your family. Keep it small, but keep it consistent. Making iftar for the neighbors, giving a Riyal a day and installing a water cooler at the local masjid are all small acts of charity.
Finally, be proactive and don't give up. Repent, repent, repent, and remember that your waking up every morning is another chance that Allah gives you to come back to Him.
Keep an eye out for our Ramadan series!
– The Sahara Bloggers (Umm Saifullah)


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Syringe Services Program
Our goal is to help people who inject drugs stay healthy. We provide syringes and other sterile injection equipment in a non-judgmental, anonymous, and supportive setting.
If you inject drugs, please bring us your used syringes so we can provide you with new ones. Our clients who want assistance getting into a recovery program can depend on our experienced staff to help with this important work. Please call us at 419-213-2655 if you have any questions. Our locations and hours are listed below:
St. Paul's United Methodist Church: 1201 Madison Ave. Toledo, OH – Tuesdays 1-4 pm. Last client taken at 3:45.
Talbot Center: 732 Main St. Toledo, Ohio – Thursdays 1-4 pm. Last client taken at 3:45.
- Learn to avoid arteries and nerves:
- Get free Narcan (naloxone) to save someone who is overdosing. You can get free Narcan and training at our syringe access sites, or call the health department pharmacy at 419-213-4206 to arrange a time to get your free Narcan and training. Click here for our pharmacy's hours: http://www.lucascountyhealth.com/health-center/pharmacy/
- Recognize the signs of infection at your injection sites Abscess Prevention
- Get free fentanyl test strips and instructions on using them
- Answers to questions about treatment options
- Injection-site wound evaluation
- Safer sex supplies
- Safer injection education
- Overdose prevention education
- Health insurance sign-up
- Free fentanyl test strips
- HIV testing: Get your results in just 20 minutes.
- Hepatitis C testing: Get your results in just 20 minutes. If you have hepatitis C we can help you navigate the path to getting treatment
- Pregnancy testing: If there is any possibility that you might be pregnant we can provide you with a free pregnancy test. Pregnant women who inject drugs have many important decisions to make and we can give you information and referral assistance.
Between 1991 and 1997, the US Government funded seven reports on clean needle programs for persons who inject drugs. The reports are unanimous in their conclusions that clean needle programs reduce HIV and hepatitis C transmission, and none found that clean needle programs caused rates of drug use to increase. This research can be found at: DrugWarFacts.org
Crisis Services:
Rescue Mental Health and Addiction Services: 419-255-9585 http://www.rescuemhs.com/
Crisis Text Line- Text the keyword "4hope" to 741741 for free and confidential, 24/7 support
Recovery Services:
Lucas County Recovery Helpline 419-255-3125
Lucas County Mental Health Recovery Services Board http://www.lcmhrsb.oh.gov
Peer and Family Support Services:
National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) http://www.namitoledo.org/
Alcoholics Anonymous http://toledoaa.com/Meeting%20Schedule.htm
Narcotics Anonymous http://natoledo.com/
Cocaine Anonymous https://www.caohio.org/meetings/toledomeetings/
Heroin Anonymous http://toledoareaheroinanonymous.com/index.html
Racing for Recovery- 419-824-8462 http://racingforrecovery.org/services/support-groups/
Families After Addiction or Death (FAAD)- 567-318-5607 http://www.theteamrecovery.org/about
Families and Addicts Coming Together (FACT) https://www.facebook.com/groups/1866651693584843/
Northwest Ohio Syringe Services is a blood borne pathogens prevention program as required by the Ohio Revised Code #3707.57 and is supported by the Ryan White Program of the University of Toledo Medical Center and by the Lucas County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board.


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[VIDEO] "iPhone 5" Runs Android 4.2 Before Galaxy Nexus!
Apple has received a great deal of criticism for failing to be innovative with the Apple iPhone 5 and iOS. However one thing that you cannot criticize is the design of the handset. The Apple iPhone 5 is sleek and it is very light, with a beautiful body and there are not many Android handsets that can rival it in this regard.
iPhone 5 knock-off runs Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
The Apple iPhone and iOS is a great deal more restrictive than Android Jelly Bean 4.2. while this does mean that iOS is more stable and it is easy to use, this is one of the main areas of criticism and the reason why the Apple iPhone is said to be the most basic of high end devices on the market.
However there is a company in China who has just revealed a knock off iPhone which has Android 4.2 Jelly Bean running inside what looks exactly like the iPhone 5. The majority of knock off handsets have specs that compare with only the very cheapest of Android devices and the fact that this has Android 4.2 is shocking given that many carriers have yet to even roll that update out the Samsung Galaxy Nexus!
This iPhone 5 KIRF is different than the real deal as it comes with a display of 4 inches IPS with resolution of 1136 x 640. It has a quad core processor of 1.6GHz, supports GSM, WCDMA, has a camera of 8 megapixels rear and 1.3MP front, and runs on Android Jelly Bean 4.2 with Photo Sphere and Gesture Typing.
To look at the handset you would think it was an Apple iPhone 5 and you can get it in black or white. The 64GB version of this fake iPhone 5 comes with free worldwide shipping and has a price tag of $282 when you get it from China eCarts. This happens to be a lot lower than what you would have to pay out for the Apple iPhone 5, or for just about any Android device with a quad core and the latest Jelly Bean OS.


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National Geographic : 1922 Jun
CONSTANTINOPLE TODAY alitv in the world cross it at least once an hour, it lacks some of its old charm be cause of the Turkish people's renuncia tion of color. The men for the most part have adopted the European business suit, with which they wear a red fez, and the women's costumes are usually of black. With this change, the human rainbow that once confused the eve has lost much of its brilliancy. What the Rialto bridge is to Venice, the Pont Neuf to Paris, the Westminster to London, so is the Galata bridge to Constantinople-the keynote to the city. A constant stream of polyglot peoples flows across the Golden Horn: Russian refugees, in pajama coats tucked into trousers grown too large; Armenian and Greek merchants and refugees; British, French, and Italian army and navy offi cers; American sailors; Chinese, Japa nese, and Persian merchants; the last of the outmoded eunuchs; dervishes in brown, with cone-shaped hats; Cretans in baggy trousers and embroidered vests; Greek priests with black chiffon veils streaming from their hats; hamals (porters) with roomfuls of furniture on their backs; Arabs in yellow burnooses; maimed and diseased beggars; Moham medan priests in pink or green robes; black troops in red caps and sashes; Jewish guides; American relief workers; Hindustani guards in twisted turbans and scarlet capes; an occasional woman gypsy in baggy trousers; Levantine tradesmen; Albanian peasants in em broidered white leggings; Hawaiians, Filipinos, and a few drummers from "points west of Chicago"-all these pass back and forth in the course of a day. TURKISH WOMEN EXEMPT FROM FORCE The taxes were recently doubled on the bridge, and the eight Turkish collectors were ordered to make the Turkish women, previously exempt, pay for the privilege of crossing the Golden Horn. The women, however, indignantly refused, and at both ends of the bridge a constant conflict went on between protesting offi cials and the women, who slipped by with exclamations of anger. The collectors did not have the temerity to lay hands on these toll evaders, be cause Turkish women were for so long a time the exclusive property of their hus- bands that custom still forbids a man detaining a woman by force in any sort of public argument. The traditional sacredness that sur rounds the person of a Turkish woman had a curious result during the war, for the Turks did not dare to search one of them, even though it was known that she carried unlawful messages in her gar ments. BOATS FILLED WITH COMMUTERS On both sides of the bridge are docks for small steamers that take commuters back and forth between the Golden Horn and Scutari, the fifteen stations of the lIosporus, and the Princes Islands. At rush hours these efficiently operated boats are as packed as a New York ferry. Many of the commuters are the pros perous Greeks and Turks, who maintain summer homes for their families on the Princes Islands, an hour or more away. Passengers bound for Scutari are chiefly the poorer class of Turks and wealthy Armenian business men. The Bosporus boats carry the largest crowds morning and evening because of the popularity of the beautiful villa sec tion on the Straits. On these boats are Turkish bankers, British tobacco merchants, English gov ernesses, and French officers, the latter availing themselves of the bench marked "For the use of the officers of the Allies." And even if there are no officers aboard, a civilian is not permitted to occupy this bench. All Constantinople is now safe for foreigners except, perhaps, certain parts of Scutari, against which European women are warned at night. If anything of the real Turkey is to be seen, Pera must be abandoned for Stam boul. In this ancient city, which was Byzantium and New Rome, the mosques, coffee-houses, turbchs (domed tombs), and fountains remind one, even in their dilapidation, of the city's past days of greatness. Although the houses are nearly all con structed of wood, they are never painted, for the Turks have a theory that if their property looks prosperous their taxes will be increased. So the window lattices crumble and fall, the boards sag, the shingles warp, and nothing is repaired. 651
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Hey, Bookworms!
This year I am going to be doing my most anticipated releases again. From January to June, I will be separating the list into 5 different categories listed below. So this is only part 2 of a 5 part list. Stay tuned over the next few weeks for all 5!
Part 1: Debuts
Part 2: New Series
Part 3: Sequels
Part 4: Finales
Part 5: Standalones
Let's get started on the Most Anticipated 2018 New Series from January to June!
The Cruel Prince
Release Date: January 2nd, 2018
Jude was seven years old when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King…
Release Date: January 2nd, 2018
In the kingdom of Sempera, time is currency—extracted from blood, bound to iron, and consumed to add time to one's own lifespan. The rich aristocracy, like the Gerlings, tax the poor to the hilt, extending their own lives by centuries.
No one resents the Gerlings more than Jules Ember. A decade ago, she and her father were servants at Everless, the Gerlings' palatial estate, until a fateful accident forced them to flee in the dead of night. When Jules discovers that her father is dying, she knows that she must return to Everless to earn more time for him before she loses him forever…
Release Date: January 16th, 2018
Most know Androma Racella as the Bloody Baroness, a powerful mercenary whose reign of terror stretches across the Mirabel Galaxy. To those aboard her glass starship, Marauder, however, she's just Andi, their friend and fearless leader.
But when a routine mission goes awry, the Marauder's all-girl crew is tested as they find themselves in a treacherous situation and at the mercy of a sadistic bounty hunter from Andi's past…
Reign of the Fallen
Release Date: January 23rd, 2018
Odessa is one of Karthia's master necromancers, catering to the kingdom's ruling Dead. Whenever a noble dies, it's Odessa's job to raise them by retrieving their souls from a dreamy and dangerous shadow world called the Deadlands. But there is a cost to being raised–the Dead must remain shrouded, or risk transforming into zombie-like monsters known as Shades. If even a hint of flesh is exposed, the grotesque transformation will begin…
Reign the Earth
Release Date: January 30th, 2018
Shalia is a proud daughter of the desert, but after years of devastating war with the adjoining kingdom, her people are desperate for peace. Willing to trade her freedom to ensure the safety of her family, Shalia becomes Queen of the Bonelands…
The Belles
Release Date: February 6th, 2018
Camellia Beauregard is a Belle. In the opulent world of Orléans, Belles are revered, for they control Beauty, and Beauty is a commodity coveted above all else. In Orléans, the people are born gray, they are born damned, and only with the help of a Belle and her talents can they transform and be made beautiful…
The Queen's Rising
Release Date: February 6th, 2018
When her seventeenth summer solstice arrives, Brienna desires only two things: to master her passion and to be chosen by a patron.
Growing up in the southern Kingdom of Valenia at the renowned Magnalia House should have prepared her for such a life. While some are born with an innate talent for one of the five passions—art, music, dramatics, wit, and knowledge—Brienna struggled to find hers until she belatedly chose to study knowledge. However, despite all her preparations, Brienna's greatest fear comes true—the solstice does not go according to plan and she is left without a patron…
The Traitor's Game
Release Date: February 27th, 2018
Nothing is as it seems in the kingdom of Antora. Kestra Dallisor has spent three years in exile in the Lava Fields, but that won't stop her from being drawn back into her father's palace politics. He's the right hand man of the cruel king, Lord Endrick, which makes Kestra a valuable bargaining chip. A group of rebels knows this all too well — and they snatch Kestra from her carriage as she reluctantly travels home…
Children of Blood and Bone
Release Date: March 6th, 2018
Zélie Adebola remembers when the soil of Orïsha hummed with magic. Burners ignited flames, Tiders beckoned waves, and Zelie's Reaper mother summoned forth souls.
But everything changed the night magic disappeared. Under the orders of a ruthless king, maji were targeted and killed, leaving Zélie without a mother and her people without hope…
Daughters of the Storm
Release Date: March 6th, 2018
They are the daughters of a king. Though they share the same royal blood, they could not be more different. Bluebell is a proud warrior, stronger than any man and with an ironclad heart to match. Rose's heart is all too passionate: She is the queen of a neighboring kingdom, who is risking everything for a forbidden love. The twins: vain Ivy, who lives for admiration, and zealous Willow, who lives for the gods. And Ash, who is discovering a dangerous talent for magic that might be a gift–or a curse…
Ash Princess
Release Date: April 24th, 2018
Theodosia was six when her country was invaded and her mother, the Queen of Flame and Fury, was murdered before her eyes. Ten years later, Theo has learned to survive under the relentless abuse of the Kaiser and his court as the ridiculed "Ash Princess." Pretending to be empty-headed and naive when she's not enduring brutal whippings, she pushes down all other thoughts but one: Keep the Kaiser happy and he will keep you safe...
Release Date: May 22nd, 2018
When assassins ambush her best friend, the crown prince, Rielle Dardenne risks everything to save him, exposing her ability to perform all seven kinds of elemental magic. The only people who should possess this extraordinary power are a pair of prophesied queens: a queen of light and salvation and a queen of blood and destruction. To prove she is the Sun Queen, Rielle must endure seven trials to test her magic. If she fails, she will be executed…unless the trials kill her first…
What new series are you looking forward to in the first half of the year?
Leave a comment down below!
Stay tuned for Part 3: Sequels coming soon!
Until next time,


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The pork and beef at my local grocery store was on sale so.................... I made 85 meatballs! For this smaller batch, I made some creamy beef gravy of the Swedish variety.
My friends tell me I should be more anecdotal in my blog, so: when I was young, my parents would illegally allow Scandinavian girls in their 20's to live in their house for the year. It sounds creepy, but it wasn't. The girls would serve as our au-pairs, in exchange for the opportunity to live in America for a year and experience all of its culture. And it turned out that many families in my town did the same thing, so the au-pairs always had friends from their countries of origin with whom they could battle homesickness. Most of the time the au-pairs would just want to go clubbing as one was want to do in Europe during the 90's, their main ambitions during their time America merely to visit Disney World.
My first au-pair that I can remember was called Linda, and she had the pleasure of helping to raise me during a particularly poorly behaved portion of my life: third grade. She was a sort of Mary Poppins for me, with a strict demeanor and a no nonsense attitude. But what I remember most about her time living in my house was her Swedish pancakes, which she seemed to just pull out of nowhere on unassuming Saturday mornings here and there, and her Swedish meatballs. She could make Swedish food in an instinctual kind of way. She would just pull some items out of the refrigerator and then seconds later there would be a massive plate of Swedish meatballs in front of me (food was always the correct way to get me to behave). The first time she made us Swedish meatballs, we were like "Ok, but where is the marinara sauce to go with them? And what is this creamy mess on top? And you put fruit on them??" But then we tasted them and obviously they comprised a well-balanced, perfectly seasoned, scrumptiously delicious meal just like everything Linda cooked. A few years later I went to Germany and tasted what quickly became my favorite German dish: Königsberger Klopse, which is a similar meatballs-in-gravy type entree, and I wondered if Linda might have played some role in my affinity to it.
These meatballs are nothing like Linda's. Since I was making so many, I made them in a generic Italian kind of way with fennel seed and crushed red pepper, with the goal of using them in a few different meals, each based on recipes from a different part of the globe. They nonetheless turned out pretty well with these Sweden-inspired accompaniments - deeply rich and savory, balanced well by a vinegary sourness and herby freshness from the gravy. I ate them with some crusty bread and raspberry jam, which was desperately needed to counteract the saltiness of the gravy. I also just desperately need bread.
NOTE: I made a ton of meatballs for a bunch of different dishes, and only made 1/5 of the sauce below, so the proportions might be off. To get it right, you can prepare about 12 of the meatballs and then divide the sauce ingredients by 5, and then just have lots of extra meatballs, which is exactly what I did. I will update the quantities below if I ever make this dish for 6 people.
Butter Count: 10 Tbsp
Canola oil
2 cups brown onion, minced
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 1/2 tsp salt, separated
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp fennel seeds, roughly chopped
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
Cooking Spray
3 slices stale bread, finely torn
2 lb lean ground beef
1 lb lean ground pork
20 tsp flour
1 1/4 tsp ground allspice
10 cups beef stock
15 Tbsp sour cream
10 Tbsp butter
7 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar
4 tsp fresh dill
1. Heat about 2 Tbsp canola oil over medium heat. Add the next 6 ingredients (through crushed red pepper (only 1 tsp salt)) and cook about 10 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are tender. Remove from heat and cool completely.
2. Line two baking sheets with foil and spray generously with cooking spray. Gently mix the cooled onion mixture, torn bread, and meat in a bowl. Shape the mixture into about 47 small balls and place them onto they baking sheets. Set four of the meatballs aside on a separate plate.
3. Preheat the broiler. Broil the meatballs about 9 minutes, switching racks half way through, until all of the meatballs are cooked all the way through and browned on top.
4. Heat about 5 Tbsp canola oil over medium high heat. Add the four uncooked meatballs to the pan. Crush them up and cook about 5 minutes until the meat is cooked. Add the flour and allspice. Cook about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to make sure none of the dry mixture sticks to the bottom of the pan. Add the stock and 1 tsp salt. Cook about 20 minutes until reduced to about 5 cups.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream, butter, and vinegar. Add the rest of the meatballs to the sauce, add the fresh dill, and mix to coat.


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Social Media Consultancy
Our Social Media Consultancy service is designed for organisations who would like support and guidance to ensure their social media channels are as engaging as they can be. This service is delivered through one-off or regular sessions, providing you with a space to ask questions and access our expertise.
This service is tailored to the scope of your social media ambition, budget, time and business needs.
Our consultancy service could help you:
• Align your social media use with your business aims – no more wasting time on things that will not work for you
• Get to grips with a new platform or use one you know better
• Learn new social media techniques
• Put together new targeted social media activities such as online networking activities, competitions or hashtag launches
• Support new staff as they take over the management of social media channel
• Enhance the impression given by and look of your social media channel
• Branch out and experiment with new types of content such as infographics or video
• Establish new practices or guidelines for company-wide social media use – this is particularly important for multi-user, multi-location use of social media
• Use guestblogging or networking to increase your social media followings
All of our consultancy sessions are bespoke – our advice is tailored to your organisation, your capabilities and your business aims. This means that we will only recommend activities and actions we think will help you strategically – and if we don't think it will work for you, we'll tell you.
Our consultancy service is highly flexible – it's your time, and we're dedicated to working in the way that will suit you best. If you'd like us to take control, recommend focus activities and prioritise your time, we are happy to help. Likewise, we're equally content if you'd prefer to set the agenda.
We offer both one-off and regular consultancy sessions to suit you.
Single or set budget service
Our one-off service is ideal for organisations who want external expertise to kick off or boost their social media knowledge. These sessions can be done one-to-one or in a workshop setting for multiple staff and they tend to be themed around a certain element of social media (such as expressing brand personality, finding content, etc.) or a specific platform. All sessions are bespoke and can be tailored to your needs.
These sessions are usually quoted as a fixed fee and can take place over multiple sessions to suit.
This service can work alongside or supplement our Social Media Strategy service. Get in touch to find out more.
Bespoke regular support
Our regular sessions are there for organisations who would like a 'mentor' to help guide their social media use. Suitable for social media managers of all skill levels, these sessions give you the time and space to ask questions, set goals and access expertise regularly. Sessions are normally run on a one-to-one basis or in very small groups. We can offer consultancy on a regular basis, such as monthly, or adhoc to suit your working style. We are also available by email and phone, should you need advice outside of sessions.
Our regular consultation sessions are charged on an hourly basis, meaning you only pay for the time you use.


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Forget VCs, try bootstrapping for a start
Tue, 29 October 2013Contributed by Tadas Labudis, Shell LiveWIRE Winner and Eventhread Co-founder
Applying to start-up competitions might seem daunting but from our experience it's absolutely worth it. Prizes from Shell LiveWIRE, Converge Challenge Kickstart and Startup Weekend Lisbon not only gave Eventhread seed money with no strings attached but also a place at a Microsoft BizSpark programme which gave us 3 years of free hosting, reducing our running costs dramatically. Another thing I really love about competitions is that they make us rethink and improve our business model every time we apply.
At Eventhread we never paid for office space and it's not because we are stingy. Even in Glasgow, which is not known for a big start-up ecosystem, there are several organisations that understand early-stage companies and are willing to help. Entrepreneurial-Spark and Digital Enterprise Glasgow have kindly provided us with free office space which keeps us going without the need to raise capital. I would recommend looking around for a space at your local university or incubator before splashing on a fancy co-working space pass.
F6s is a platform that allows start-ups to apply to hundreds of accelerator and incubator programmes from around the World all through a single platform. However, another very cool thing about F6s is their free discount card. At the time of posting the platform claims to have 484 deals worth a whooping $465,367 - all up for grabs! Deals range from discounts on hosting, advertising and design services to exclusive free trials and other goodies that you, as a start-up founder will surely love.
Even though start-ups are "supposed to be" hip and cool, every successful organisation needs structures and process in place to get things done. Luckily, most of the task management platforms have free-tier plans that will allow you to track things you need to do, map out your feature roadmap as well as collaborate with co-founders and employees. We have structured Eventhread with Asana and have seen a massive increase in our productivity since.


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Contents Summary
- Facts about vacuum cleaners and how they work
- 17 advantages of having a vacuum cleaner at home
- 1. Vacuum cleaners are small
- 2. They are ideal for small homes and houses
- 3. Vacuum cleaners are not heavy weighted
- 4. On the spot vacuuming now possible
- 5. Safe for everyone to use
- 6. Vacuum cleaners are very easy to use
- 7. They do not cause damage
- 8. Carry them around easily
- 9. Vacuum cleaners come in cordless forms
- 10. They are great for quick cleanups
- 11. They can handle all types of messes
- 12. You can take it and go anywhere
- 13. Cordless vacuum cleaners clean up the dust and sand
- 14. Does not damage surfaces
- 15. Various vacuum cleaners for various needs
- 16. You don't need to buy additional attachments
- 17. Vacuum cleaners are very powerful
- Key steps on maintaining a vacuum cleaner
- This should be done regularly
- Maintaining your vacuum cleaner
- Here's how to clean the filter
- Final words
In this day and age, where you look for comfort and easiness in everything around, cleaning up the home too should be the same- fast and easy.
This is why, a vacuum cleaner is idea to have at home, especially if you have a large rug or a larger floor space to clean, or bulky heavy carpets to manage. You should know that a vacuum cleaner comes in handy and reaches places where you may not even manage to, even by bending low. Read on and learn more, for we shall tell you many benefits of vacuum cleaner and why a vacuum cleaner should be a part of the appliance entourage in every home.
And if you looking for best vacuum cleaner in India then check out our list of 15 efficient vacuum cleaners.
Facts about vacuum cleaners and how they work
Even though you think your home is squeaky clean, it absolutely is not. This is because, the amount of dust and dirt unseen by the naked eye, is way too tiny and minute for perception.
Fortunately, most of us can still live without knowing this truth. But one quick run around the house with a vacuum cleaner, and the truth is out there.
In the day and age, almost every house has the latest appliance and gadget, and vacuum cleaners are one of them. We just cannot think of managing a home without a vacuum cleaner.
They suck up the dirt for sure, but let's learn how they work and what makes the modern ones so different from the older traditional ones.
Here are points to note before we tell you about the advantages of having a vacuum cleaner at home.
- The very name "vacuum cleaner", is a giveaway. When it comes to understanding how the machine operates, a vacuum cleaner works on the principle of suctioning.
- Did you know, there is know 'vacuum' involved as such in a vacuum cleaner. In fact, many say they should change the name to 'suction cleaner'.
- With the machine – vacuum cleaner, there is an air pressure difference involved. However, there is no ways that vacuum in involved in the making and the use of the cleaner.
Now that you have a few facts told to you about vacuum cleaners, let's take a look at the many advantages of having a vacuum cleaner at home.
17 advantages of having a vacuum cleaner at home
1. Vacuum cleaners are small
Less than half the size than most of their larger siblings, some models are small enough to fit right into your pocket too. The compact size of vacuum cleaners makes it very easy for the homemaker to carry them around, store them in a corner and to clean them too. This would be one of the biggest benefits of using a vacuum cleaner.
2. They are ideal for small homes and houses
Vacuum cleaners come in many shapes and sizes, and the small ones around are easy to store and maintain. They can be kept just about anywhere- a store room corner, the laundry room, in a dorm room too or under the bed. Since the size of the appliance is small, chances are that is can also reach the most hard to reach places to clean.
3. Vacuum cleaners are not heavy weighted
Most vacuum cleaners are models that do not weight heavy. While each make and model would have a certain weight as such, they are reasonably lightweight to carry around. This makes it very convenient for the homemaker to get her job of cleaning done quickly.
4. On the spot vacuuming now possible
Since they are lightweight and easy to tug along, you don't have to worry about bringing out the broom and mop, each time you see a mess. Pull out the vacuum cleaner and get the spot cleaned in a jiffy, with just one machine in hand. One of the best uses of vacuum cleaner in homes across the nation.
5. Safe for everyone to use
From teens to senior citizens around at home, the risk of lugging a giant vacuum cleaner around shall no more be a cause of worry. No more struggling with a heavy and a bulky vacuum cleaner around the house, when a smaller and a compact version of the same is ready for use. And the chances of falling or tripping over with the appliance is a thing of the past.
6. Vacuum cleaners are very easy to use
It is no rocket science to use a vacuum cleaner, even your kids around at home can pitch in to help when the cleaning is being done. They are lightweight, small and very easy to operate, sans complications and too many buttons to press and operate.
7. They do not cause damage
Vacuum cleaners are not heavy enough to cause damage just in case they drop. This is why, even when you have kids around the house helping with the vacuuming, it is safe for them to do so. Even if they drop the vacuum cleaner, the damages would be nil. Moreover, the house gets cleaned and the kids learn their duties too.
8. Carry them around easily
Vacuum cleaners are easy to carry around because of their lightweight and compact size. There is a handle on each of them, for you to have a grip when cleaning up a mess or the house. The handle has a good grip to provide and to carry around the model while you work your way through. One of the best uses of vacuum cleaner in daily life, we say is to easily carry them around when need be.
9. Vacuum cleaners come in cordless forms
These days, there is no need for you to worry about tripping over wires when using vacuum cleaners. Most models come in cordless forms and the worry about getting caught up or tangled up in the long wires, would be a thing of the past.
10. They are great for quick cleanups
When it comes to vacuum cleaners, one of the most important benefits is that it can be great when you have to use it for spot cleaning or to take care of single messes in small areas. Instead of tugging out the mop and the broom now and then, a simple handy vacuum cleaner can do the job in no time.
11. They can handle all types of messes
There are vacuum cleaners that can clean up dry messes and there are those that clean wet messes too, and some that do both. You can choose accordingly which vacuum cleaner type would best suit your lifestyle and needs. Surely one of the best advantages of vacuum cleaner in points.
12. You can take it and go anywhere
Vacuum cleaners such as handheld ones are best to piggyback around with. They can be your travel mate if need be and can go anywhere with you. Cordless models are great for outdoor activities and needs, while the ones with cords could be used indoors.
13. Cordless vacuum cleaners clean up the dust and sand
If you are planning to hit the beach and enjoy the sun and sand, remember to carry along with you your cordless vacuum cleaner. Before you get back to the car, you can use your cordless vacuum cleaner to clean up the sand and the dust on your beach towels and sheets, your slippers and feet too.
14. Does not damage surfaces
Vacuum cleaners that are small and compact, or even the medium sized ones would help you clean out any surface that needs cleansing. This is done without any surface damage to the items around.
15. Various vacuum cleaners for various needs
Depending on the size of your house, your lifestyle and the cleaning needs, you can now choose the type of vacuum cleaner you wish to have around. A steam vacuum cleaner would be best to use for wooden surfaces and floors, while a traditional one which is compact can be used for other cleaning needs.
16. You don't need to buy additional attachments
With handheld devices such as vacuum cleaners making life easy and cleaning up the space around well, to get to the nook and corners, each of the cleaners would come with a set of additional attachments. You don't have to go looking around for them.
17. Vacuum cleaners are very powerful
Vacuum cleaners are small and lightweight by nature, but they are very powerful- don't just go on the size. It varies from one brand to the next or one unit to the next, to know what potential the said vacuum cleaner would have. However, you would not be disappointed at all.
Here were the many benefits of vacuum cleaners that you should know about. Also remember, the average vacuum cleaner does get your cleaning job done faster, and you don't have to break your back bending over to sweep and clean anymore.
Key steps on maintaining a vacuum cleaner
A vacuum cleaner is one of the best investments you can make to maintain your home's cleanliness and hygiene. But to ensure that the vacuum cleaner works for a long span of time, here are a couple of very useful maintenance tips for you to try.
This should be done regularly
- You should change your vacuum cleaner bag once in a while
- You must check and see if the floorhead is clogged with debris or not, now and then, and
- The vacuum filter should be cleaned or changed regularly.
When you keep your vacuum cleaner in a good condition, you are assured that the service given by the machine is for long, and that there is value for money too. You can avoid expensive repairs when you indulge in regular inspection and care. Here are a couple of maintenance and cleaning measures that you should take. This is done in order to prevent the machine and its parts from wearing out prematurely.
Maintaining your vacuum cleaner
There are a couple of vacuum maintenance guidelines quite basic for you to use. This will help save you the time and energy on repairs that can take the world out of you.
- Always treat the vacuum cord with utmost care- When using the machine, never ever pull the plug with the cord.
- You must check the bag regularly- Keeping the bag full to the brim and then changing it is not advisable. Vacuum cleaners lose their suction power if the bags turn out to be more than half full.
- Hoses can get blocked when larger items are sucked into it- If you want to test the hose, it is best to push something thin and long into it or through it, to check if something is stuck or lodged inside.
- You should check the floorhead – This will tell you if there are blockages or not. The floorhead or the powerhead or the beater bar, is found at the hose's base. It is this part which contacts the floor. Flip it upside down and look underneath for blockages and debris.
- Unclip the floorhead once a week to clean out the debris- Removing the bottom plate from the floorhead, with a screwdriver or just unclipping it would do. Gently and carefully get the screws out if any and hold onto them, and then remove the brush roll at one end. Clean it and place it back, and the screw the lid again.
- When cleaning the roll brush- Remember to gently pull out hair, threads, fluff and debris of any kind that have been wrapped around the roll. In some cases, you may need the help of small scissors to remove what is entwined inside.
- You should check the vacuum belt- The vacuum belt is placed over the brush roll. This can be checked while the removal of the bottom plate is being done by placing your finger below the belt and checking its tautness. If there are sags and cracks or any wear which is visible, it may need replacement.
- Once a year a new belt should be bought- This again would depend on the frequency of use of the vacuum cleaner. A belt would need replacement at least once a year.
Here's how to clean the filter
A less efficient machine is because of a dirty filter, so you have to check the filters and if they are working properly on the hoover or not.
The filtering systems would be different for every make and model of vacuum cleaners available in the market. Some of them are washable, while others would need simple replacements. Hence, you should double check the model and its instructions and then go ahead.
Some vacuum cleaners also have various filters. Foam filters can be rinsed and cleaned, but ensure that they completely dry before they are placed back into the machine. Plastic filters on the other hand just need to be dusted. You should dust with a soft cloth or a soft bristle brush.
Final words
Vacuum cleaners are super versatile by nature and they have plenty of attachments with them as well. This means, you can get into the narrowest of crevices and creeks at home to clean them all out. Even the couch cushions, blinds, and the car seats too can be cleaned with ease. Since it is small and lightweight, it can be carried around and taken where you wish to. The soft tips of the brushes do not cause any damage to the surface area of furnishings or the upholstery, and you can use the vacuum cleaner to clean from ceiling to floor, vents to crevices, shelves to stairs, ceiling fans to couches and more. The possibilities are endless.


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Nothing, besides karaoke, gives me more joy than cooking for and eating with my favorite people. But you'd never know it since I spend so much time focusing instead on my number three favorite thing to do, binge-watch TV shows on Netflix. So in an effort to really fill my time with what matters most (and to spread out my remaining episodes of Gossip Girl), I emailed a handful of my best friends about a month ago with a proposition: come over for dinner and I'll cook you your favorite meal-- the catch being that I get to take pictures of you eating and put them on the Internet. The response from my small focus group was overwhelmingly positive in the "yes, please cook for me" category, but less successful in the "this is my favorite meal" category. Most everyone politely responded that I should cook whatever I like, but not Iris and that's why we're BFFs.
If I'd thought for a second, I probably could have figured out Iris's favorite meal on my own. We became friends when we were roommates in college and many-a-night we stayed up studying, procrastinating, napping sitting upright at the kitchen table, staring at our blinking cursors, and expounding on what we wanted to eat when the nightmare of finals/midterms/homework ended.
While my snacking daydreams could vary from disco fries to chocolate cupcakes, for Iris the ultimate comfort food was always Filipino breakfast. Warm, freshly baked pan de sal, garlic fried rice, eggs over-easy, and fatty, salty corned beef, fried up with onions. The dish is served at a lot of Filipino restaurants as a nostalgic treat to Fil-Ams (who might eat it for any meal of the day) and, as I learned quickly, will keep you full for hours worth of whimpering in the Fordham University library. Iris got me hooked on it and by junior year, we were pretty much always stocked up with cans of tinned corned beef for those most desperate of moments.
Note: if you want to brine your own corned beef, plan ahead by at least 5 days. I learned this the hard way and had to buy a pre-brined version from my butcher; still delicious!
We'd also occasionally head to Iris's parents' house on Long Island for a weekend with the sole intent of waking up to the smell of crackling corned beef and garlicky rice, made expertly by her dad. While we usually just stuffed ourselves silly with rice, eggs, and meat, an added treat would occasionally be pan de sal. These sweet and simple rolls remind me a lot of Pillsbury dinner rolls and are super simple to make from scratch, but as with any bread baking, make sure you plan ahead.
The meal, which was such a staple of our college career, obviously brought back stories this time around. Like the time Iris caught her beef on fire and set off the fire alarm or how very aware we were of which tinned corned beef was superior to the others. FYI, you want the stuff in the purple can from the Filipino store. The garbage from Morton Williams most certainly will not do.
Once the reminiscing was over, we then spent the remainder of the evening asking Iris's hunky boyfriend and future MD, Blase Ferraris (given name, not kidding) about our billions of perceived ailments including Iris's potential toe amputation and my obsession with my blood sugar levels. Some exemplary quotes that sum up his superb bedside manner included, "birth isn't that bad" and "you don't have diabetes."
Thank you to Iris and Blase for coming over and giving me recipe inspiration! If you want to be subjected to my amateur cooking and photography, let me know your favorite meal in the comments! The more the merrier.
Pan de Sal
2 cups warm water
1 package active dry yeast
1/3 cup sugar plus 1 tsp
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 tsp salt
6 cups all purpose flour
1. Stir yeast and 1 tsp sugar into water and let sit, approximately 10 minutes, until foamy. If not foamy, start again. Your yeast may have died. If water is too hot, you can kill the yeast. Aim for approximately 110 degrees F; will feel like warm bath water.
2. Combine the remaining 1/3 cup of sugar and the oil and mix until smooth. Add salt, 1 cup of flour and the yeast mixture; stir well. Affix electric mixer with dough hook and add the remaining 5 cups flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Knead an additional 5-7 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Grease the surface of the dough with vegetable oil (1-2 tsp) and place in a mixing bowl. Cover with damp kitchen towel and let sit in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
4. Turn dough out onto lightly floured surface and divide into 4 equal portions. Roll each portions, with your hands, into a log until it's about 1 in in diameter. With a sharp kitchen knife, cut into portions of about 1 inch wide. Place portions onto lightly greased baking sheets, touching slightly.
5. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cover buns with damp kitchen towel and allow to double in size (approximately 30 minutes). By this point, rolls may be snug against one another-- you can break apart after baking. At this point, you may wish to dust the top of each roll with sugar or, as is done traditionally, corn meal.
6. Bake until golden brown, approximately 25 minutes. Allow to cool and then break apart.


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Magic Touch
A 66-1 horse came in at the NBA draft lottery on Sunday. Should they close the betting windows? Jack McCloskey, general manager of the Minnesota Timber-wolves, says yes. After the T-Wolves drew the fifth pick in the June 30 college draft despite having the league's second-worst season record, 19-63, McCloskey grumbled, "We'll get a good player, but it won't be the guy we wanted." What a swell way to begin a relationship with Calbert Cheaney or J.R. Ryder, who figure to be the best players still available when Minnesota makes its selection.
Yes, Jack, you can curse the good fortune of the Orlando Magic, which had a 41-41 record and barely missed the playoffs. Under the lottery's weighted system, the Magic had only one of the 66 Ping-Pong balls used to determine the first three picks, yet Orlando got the top choice for the second year in a row. And, yes, it was a bad day for doormats like the Dallas Mavericks (who had the worst record, 11-71—and 11 balls—but will pick only fourth) and yourselves. But there are only so many ways to set up a draft. Does anyone really want to go back to a system in which all teams picked in inverse order of their records, an arrangement that invited tanking in late-season games?
Besides, getting a high draft choice doesn't guarantee success. Look at the No. 1 picks who've gone bust—LaRue Martin and Kent Benson come to mind. Whether the Magic drafts Chris Webber and teams him with last year's No. 1, Shaquille O'Neal, or trades down for, say, another pick and a veteran player (a deal with the Golden State Warriors, who have the third selection, is possible), the Magic will have to clear an awful lot of space under the salary cap.
And how about John Nash's idea? By rights, Nash, general manager of the Washington Bullets, should be as upset as McCloskey, having drawn only the sixth pick even though the Bullets had the NBA's third-worst record. But Nash suggests opening up the draft so that even the elite teams get a shot at No. 1. "Something bothers me about the principle that just because you're bad, you should get the best player," he says.
Very Tidy
The Chicago Cubs have bought a parcel of land near Wrigley Field for eventual use as a parking lot. For now, though, the Cubs have taken over a car wash on the site that they're running at a nice profit. "We don't have any labor problems with the car wash," says Mark McGuire, the club's executive vice-president. The Cubs have taken such a shine to the new venture that McGuire says, "Maybe we can keep it and divest our-selves of the baseball team."
The U.S. Olympic Committee is to be commended for increasing the bonus money it awards Americans who win Olympic medals. Although the sums—$15,000 for gold, $10,000 for silver and $7,500 for bronze—pale next to the loot paid out in other countries (for example, each of Spain's 13 gold medalists in Barcelona got an $80,000 bonus from the national sports federation and a $1 million pension from a bank), they represent a big leap forward for the USOC, which previously gave $2,500 to those who placed in the top eight at the Games.
One cavil: The USOC's largesse doesn't benefit college athletes, who are barred by NCAA rules from accepting money; it's time the NCAA relaxed its rigid stance and allowed collegians to put Olympic bonuses in trust funds. Another: USOC officials are fretting about the p.r. fallout of paying bonuses to Dream Teamers, tennis pros and other well-heeled Olympians. They should lighten up. One expects that the Michael Jordans and Jennifer Capriatis will be savvy enough to give their 15 grand to charity without any coaxing.
Missing Whistles
That gulp you've been hearing of late is the sound of NHL refs swallowing their whistles at key moments of playoff games. To wit: During the New York Islanders' 4-1 win over the Montreal Canadiens last Saturday in Game 4 of the Wales Conference finals, Montreal hatchet man Lyle Odelein clubbed New York's Ray Ferraro in the head with a stick. The blow felled Ferraro and put him out of action, but ref Dan Marouelli didn't call anything.
Such oversights have been most common in overtime. During a bungled line change in OT of the Canadiens' 2-1 win in Game 3 last Thursday, seven Canadiens—two over the limit—circled the ice in front of referee Kerry Fraser. No call. A nanosecond later, an egregious trip by Montreal's Benoit Brunet of Islander Brad Dalgarno went unheeded by Fraser. Brunet promptly set up the game-winning goal by Guy Carbonneau.
This year's playoffs have produced an unprecedented 28 overtime periods adding up to 279 minutes, during which a grand total of six penalties resulting in power plays have been called. That's one power play every 46 minutes, compared with a regular-season average of one every six minutes.
Nobody wants to see playoff games decided by borderline penalties. But the refs' refusal to punish even brazen infractions can be explained only by a collective failure of nerve that gives players license to clutch and trip and gouge. Such behavior has tarnished the NHL's otherwise exciting postseason.
Still Charlie Hustle
Pete Rose is going to Cooperstown.
He will sign autographs for money at a memorabilia emporium in the picturesque village on the two days preceding Reggie Jackson's induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame on Aug. 1. Rose, of course, already would be in the shrine himself had he not been banned for life from the game for his gambling activities and unsavory associations.
Rose's publicist, Doug Welsh, told Tim Sullivan of The Cincinnati Enquirer that Rose asked Jackson if he objected to Rose's appearance and that Jackson assured Rose he did not. Welsh also noted that Rose will be out of Cooperstown by the day of the induction. But what else was Jackson going to say? If he had said, "Pete, maybe you shouldn't be there," Jackson might have been accused of trying to curb Rose for his own self-aggrandizement. Somebody should tell Rose that he is showing all greed and no grace—and that such an unseemly public appearance will only hurt his chances of being welcomed back to the game.
Griffin's Goodies
The pregame notes that pro team publicists prepare for the press tend to be a bland mix of canned quotes and statistical minutiae, but Richard Griffin, who has been the Montreal Expos' p.r. man since 1973, dishes up far richer fare. Here is a sampling.
•When the porcine star of a pregame promotion at Montreal's Jarry Park took ill, Griffin wrote: "The greased pig competition had to be canceled because the pig pulled a hamstring."
•On the 20th anniversary of the break-in at Democratic National Committee headquarters, Griffin named an all-Watergate team that included a Ford at first base—Dan, who played for Minnesota, California and Baltimore and was known, Griffin wrote, for his "pardon-me swing at the plate." Griffin passed on Otis and Donell Nixon but made Russ Nixon the manager, because during his 12-year career as a catcher, Nixon had been "master of the caught stealing."
•Griffin wrote a travel guide for a 28-day Expo road trip in 1991 that included this sage advice: "Fifty-six bars of Neutrogena soap are not an acceptable present to your wife."
•When 6'10" Randy Johnson made his major league debut with the Expos in 1988, Griffin noted that he was the tallest pitcher in team—and major league—history but not the highest. Griffin reserved that honor for Bill (Spaceman) Lee.
•Griffin once listed the Expos' next-day pitcher as "Undecided" and provided a biographical note that said the mythical player's favorite color was plaid and his favorite food was waffles.
•Griffin billed a day-game matchup between pitchers Dennis Martinez of Montreal and Ramon Martinez of the Los Angeles Dodgers as "a revival of the two-Martinez lunch."
•On the 1991 death of Dr. Seuss, Griffin included with his pregame notes a four-page poetic tribute that contained these lines:
Staring down from his cave with a sour, Grinchy frown,
At the warm spring-like air that let baseball abound.
He knew every fan was unearthing his glove,
To go to the Stade and cheer Expos they loved.
Look-alike Logos
The American Professional Soccer League, a fledgling outfit with big-time aspirations, has a new logo. It features a silhouetted player and a red, white and blue color scheme, design elements that you may find familiar (above).
Presidential Ties
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram's Mike Fisher notes that quarterback Hugh Millen, who came to the Dallas Cowboys in April in a trade with the New England Patriots, is a nice fit for Dallas except for his birthday: Nov. 22, 1963. To which we would like to add that Millen has happier connections to presidents, having attended Roosevelt High in Seattle and the University of Washington.
They Wrote It
•Jim Henneman in the Baltimore Sun: "Owner Marge Schott says the Reds have embarrassed her so far this year. Does that mean they're even?"
They Said It
•Rusty Fricke, Cincinnati Rocker kicker, shrugging off the Arena Football League-record 60-yard field goal he booted in 1991: "I had the air-conditioning at my back."
•Don Nelson, Golden State Warrior general manager-coach, who was one of the 11 team representatives shown below (far right, top row) at the NBA draft lottery, discussing the experience: "If you don't get lucky, you just sit there like a big dork."


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Controversial memo suggests Lee School District's FEMA reimbursement in jeopardy
The Lee County School District said they filed a request for public assistance with FEMA on time, but a controversial memo seemed to cast doubt on whether they would receive all of the reimbursement money they requested.
Now, the district said that money is not in jeopardy.
"I recently met with a current district employee and whistle-blower who informed me of possible inappropriate actions from the district staff that may have jeopardized our FEMA reimbursement," the memo reads.
It was sent by Lee County School Board member, Melisa Giovannelli, raising those concerns at Tuesday night's school board meeting.
But when the rest of the board asked about the alleged inappropriate actions, she only said, "Cleaning up the debris without permission or, I don't know, what FEMA's not going to pay. That's what I was told, is that FEMA will not be reimbursing us most of that $22 million. So I'm like, really?"
She was not willing to identify the whistle-blower, either.
The school district is responding by denying their reimbursement claim is in jeopardy.
They released a statement that reads in part,
"The district has filed a request for public assistance with FEMA appropriately and on time. We have submitted damages in the amount of $23 million. The district has absolutely no indication of any inappropriate actions whatsoever that would jeopardize our FEMA reimbursement. It is disappointing that unsupported allegations have been made against those who worked so hard to reopen our schools after Hurricane Irma."
Some citizens are upset the school board decided not to explore the allegations in Giovannelli's memo.
"We need a school board that is going to be a watchdog for the taxpayers and not a lapdog for the Adkins administration. Unfortunately, you all have decided that's not the role you want to play," said Anthony Thomas.
Giovannelli did not respond to a request for comment.
The Lee County School District said they're not expecting to get 100 percent of the $23 million in damages they submitted after Hurricane Irma.
Most FEMA funding formulas stipulate federal funding will be up to 75 percent with the remaining 25 percent to be determined by the state government.
The school district continues to work with FEMA to get as much of that money back as possible.
© Copyright 2018 WBBH/WZVN (Waterman Broadcasting). All rights reserved.


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When you make your own pasta, you will always end up with some scraps, even more if you make ravioli. You can easily recycle this leftover pasta to make maltagliati, meaning "poorly cut" in Italian, which was traditionally meant as food for the poor. We are way past that, and today you can enjoy rich texture and amazing flavor of your pasta without the social stigma ;-)
Creamy scrambled eggs
I love the creamy texture of scrambled eggs, but I strongly dislike the idea of eating eggs raw, so I hacked a scrambled eggs recipe to be both completely set, creamy, and pack a crunchy punch as an extra. It's so delicious with fresh bread or toast, and the consistency makes it spreadable like a cottage cheese! I come back to this recipe quite often, because it's simple, fast and feels luxurious ;-)
Sweet potato quiche
Quiche is that one recipe that I love coming back to — it's easy to make, looks delicious and tastes heavenly :-) Plus, it allows me to come up with new fillings, which makes it very versatile!
Sweet potatoes are very smooth and creamy when boiled, then baked, and shallots add a crunchy texture. The combination of them is very mild and aromatic, so make sure you spice it up to your liking!
Spongy waffles
Usually waffles are served crispy, but from time to time I like to make them soft and spongy — perfect base for a plum jam! :-) This recipe makes 4 delicious, spongy waffles that you can prepare in no-time!
Fancy tamagoyaki bento
Oh my, this one is both a looker and tastes amazingly! :-) This bento idea is based on the basic tamagoyaki recipe, so feel free to use your favorite ingredients: champignons or chanterelle mushroom, herbs, different kinds of onion, bacon bits, ham shavings etc. Go crazy! :-) It's also a very good side dish!