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Title Insurance: What is it Good For?
If you're in the process of purchasing a home or you've done any research into buying a home in New York, you've likely heard about title searches. A title search is an important part of the home-buying process. It give assurance a home is free of encumbrances and liens prior to closing, so buyers aren't forced to pay for something that occurred long before the home was theirs.
Unfortunately, title searches sometimes fail to bring up all of the financial and legal issues tied to a home, which is why title insurance exists. Title insurance provides your mortgage lender, and you, with protection against any of the problems that could be associated with the transfer of the property. It requires a one-time premium paid to insure the owner's title to the property, and covers you for as long as you own the property.
How Does a Title Insurance Policy Protect You?
Title insurance protects you from the unexpected. Most commonly, if you purchase a home that already had an unpaid mortgage that was inadvertently missed by the title searcher, the mortgage remains a lien against the property, which means you are responsible for that mortgage and could face foreclosure, even though you had nothing to do with that transaction and you are a new owner with a different mortgage. With title insurance, the insurance company is responsible for paying off that old, unpaid mortgage and removing the lien.
Though it might seem far-fetched that something as well-documented as a mortgage could be missed in a title search, it's more common than most people realize. Errors arise when mortgages and other documents related to a home are lost, misfiled, or indexed incorrectly in the county recording office. Issues regarding fences, adverse possession, legal use of a property, unpaid taxes, judgments and liens can also be missed—making title insurance protection critical. Delays can also play a role and many of New York's larger counties are known for their delays, making title insurance essential for New York State homebuyers.
If you're fretting over the cost of title insurance, it's important to consider what it costs in comparison to not having it. In a 2011 New York Times article, First American Title Insurance Company estimated title insurance on a home with a $240,000 mortgage would be under $1200. Compare that to the hundreds of thousands of dollars you'd be on the hook for if a title search missed a previous mortgage on the home.
In addition to the mistakes and oversight that can happen, fraud is also an issue. Title insurance also protects against forged or fraudulent deeds. Should you purchase a home from someone who claimed to be the owner but had actually forged proof of ownership, the title insurance company would pay the associated legal fees and be responsible for reimbursing you for any loss.
Other issues title insurance provides protection for include:
- Misreported marital status, resulting in a claim by a spouse
- Defective deeds
- Deeds executed by people declared mentally incompetent
- Deeds executed by people with invalid powers of attorney
- Confusion about ownership due to owner's names
- Legal issues created by the death of an owner and related estate issues, including taxes
- Clerical errors
- Unpaid property taxes
Title insurance is one of the most important purchases you'll make related to your home. If you would like to know more or you need assistance with the purchase of a home in New York, contact the Law Offices of Elan Wurtzel by calling 516.822.7866.
Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/31/realestate/paying-for-title-insurance-mortgage.html


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One of the worst new shows, and by worst, I mean very worst, is HART OF DIXIE. Being on the CW network, with it's historic low ratings doesn't really help much either for this incredibly lame displaced person romantic comic drama show where Manhattan Doctor Zoe Hart decides to relocate into the deep South. Actress Rachel Bilson, despite her O.C. experience as an actress seems wholly unable to carry the lead in this show, filled with laughable, if not out-rightly insulting one-dimensional Southern stereotypes. The Southern stereotypes are so awful that at any moment you almost expect to see barefoot slaves working the cotton fields or a KKK group riding around on horses. It's a silly and horrid image of the South, along with the light as a feather acting strengths of Bilson.
Some years ago, Eric LaSalle directed a special episode of ER where he spent some practicing medicine in a remote deep South area. It was a great episode. A Northern doctor practicing medicine in the deep South can really work as a premise as long as the characters aren't absurd stereotypes like this HART OF DIXIE mess.
The TV viewing audience also sure had every right to expect better than this dreck considering that Josh Schwartz is among the executive producers of this show. Not only was Schwartz responsible for the O.C., but CHUCK and GOSSIP GIRL as well. But, this show is so bad, even a pair Schwartz couldn't help. The premise is bad, the script is bad, the acting bad. It's a hopeless show. CW sure missed the mark here.
With so many better shows on Monday night on CBS, or even, God forbid, NBC, to choose from, why someone would choose to waste time on HART OF DIXIE shows little discernment for watching good programming. What a stinker this show is.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
If the e-newsletter
does not appear properly in your email, click here to view it online.
E-Newsletter: May 2009
Phoenix Perennials E-Newsletter
May 2009
from Phoenix Perennials!
Yeah for Spring! It's as if Mother Nature felt guilty for this winter she just put us through and decided to give us some sun for a bit (except perhaps for this week!). The nursery is now jam-packed with plants with more arriving or coming ready from our production side every day. Every week, even every few days the nursery changes dramatically!
Speaking of mothers don't miss our special Mothers' Day Stargazer Lily give-away. If you're a Mom bring your kids or a picture of them to get a free lily! We also have a contest to win a guided tour for four people on the Greenheart Canopy Walkway at the UBC Botanical Garden.
In this e-newsletter you'll find pics from last month's Easter Plant Hunt, you'll meet the Phoenicians, you'll find out about workshops, home renovation tax credits, our In-Nursery Design Service, and upcoming talks, events and Charity Shopping Weekends. You'll also find this year's first installment of Fabulous at Phoenix filled with a small selection of not-to-be-missed plants.
And [drum roll please!] introducing our extended summer hours. We'll be staying open an extra hour on Thursday and Friday (so you have more time when you rush to the nursery after work) and on Saturday so you can browse to your heart's content.
Extended Summer Hours
Sunday to Wednesday 10-5
Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10-6
(Until July 18th, 2009 when we go back to Seven Days a Week, 10-5)
See you soon at the nursery!
Gary and the Phoenicians
The search for B.C.'s best garden is on.
Enter yours for a chance to win a $3,500 prize package including a $500 Phoenix Perennials gift certificate!
Click here for more details
In this Issue
1. Free Stargazer Lily for Mothers on Mothers' Day Weekend!
2. Contest: Win a Guided Tour for Four on the new
Greenheart Canopy Walkway at UBC Botanical Garden
3. The Great Easter Plant Hunt: Pics from last month's special event
4. Meet the Phoenicians
5. Upcoming Workshops
6. The Home Renovation Tax Credit
7. The In-Nursery Design Service
8. Upcoming Talks by Phoenix Perennials Owner Gary Lewis
9. Upcoming Events: The World Rose Festival
10. Charity Shopping Weekend to Benefit the Richmond Therapeutic Equestrian Services
11. Fabulous at Phoenix:
Gary's Picks of New, Notable and
Luscious Plants at the Phoenix Candy Store
Free Stargazer Lily
for Mothers on Mothers' Day Weekend!*
Bring your children, grandchildren
or furry children or a picture
of them to get your free lily!
*With purchase over $10, Saturday and Sunday May 9th and 10th, while supplies last.
Win a Guided Tour for Four on the new
Greenheart Canopy Walkway at UBC Botanical Garden
Experience nature high above the forest floor with a guided tour on the new Greenheart Canopy Walkway. Located in the David C. Lam Asian Garden at UBC Botanical Garden and Centre for Plant Research, this 308-metre (1010 feet) aerial trail system offers a rare perspective on the natural beauty of the west coast forest canopy eco-system. (Tour aprox. 40 mins.)
For more information please visit
To enter the contest:
1. Send an email with "Greenheart" in the subject line.
2. Answer this skill testing question:
What height does the Greenheart Canopy Walkway reach?
Phoenix Perennials presents
The Great Easter Plant Hunt
An Easter "egg" hunt for gardeners
On a very rainy cold Easter Sunday 45 brave souls came to the nursery at 10am sharp for our first annual easter plant hunt. They won lots of fabulous prizes by hunting for easter eggs to see what was inside - chocolate and fabulous prizes. They won gift certificates, books, t-shirts, free plants and discounts off of plants. Here are some images from the day.
These Easter Plant Bunnies sure were tired after hiding over 200 eggs!
Waiting for the Hunt to start.
The Easter Plant bunnies had to hide the eggs in the greenhouse because it was raining so hard outside. Here are people hunting for the eggs.
Opening up the eggs to reveal the prizes!
Mother and Daughter both win some big prizes.
More winning bunnies!
See you next year!
the Phoenicians
They're not long lost people from the ancient world, they're my lovely and talented staff. When
I took over at Phoenix five seasons ago I had two wonderful
part time employees. Now there are a lot more! Each one of them brings
their unique personalities, talents, and enthusiasm
to the nursery. Together they are working hard to bring
you a fun, exciting, and inspiring nursery experience.
Here they are, the Phoenicians:
Diane - You'll appreciate Diane's dry sense of humour
and her keen knowledge of plants and of gardening (especially
using earth-friendly methods). This
is Diane's third year at Phoenix. Diane offers a number of workshops at the nursery on gardening and design for which she is much appreciated by her students for her wealth of experience and knowledge. Diane is also one of the certified
designers that will be working with clients of our
In-Nursery Design Service. She has a great sense for design and a keen desire to help you discover your perfect garden.
For more information on our In-Nursery Design Service visit the main page of our website at www.phoenixperennials.com.
Shelley - Shelley
is a dynamo who started on our production side but has been working the past couple years on retail where she shares with customers her great love of plants and design. Last year Shelley completed the UBC Certificate in Garden Design with great accolades from her instructors. Watch out! This woman has talent and a passion for plants and design. Shelley will be helping out with our In-Nursery Design Service this year.
Diana - Our irreplaceable "cash girl" and my step mom Diana keeps the line moving at the front of the nursery and helps divest of you fill credit cards and empty bank accounts - in trade for fabulous plants of course!
Léa - Léa will be joining us in late June as our second Phoenician Intern. She is from France and is currently enrolled at the National Institute of Horticulture in Angers where she is working on her degree in Landscaping and Horticulture.
Léa is looking for two months accomodation while working in Vancouver from late June until mid August. Please see below for details.
Gary - I'm Gary, the owner of Phoenix
Perennials and a lover of all things botanical, especially if they look like an alien maw about to swallow my head!
When I took over at Phoenix five years ago I wanted
to create a nursery that I would want to shop at
- a place brimming with an unparalleled selection
of garden plants. I have drawn inspiration from
all of my favourite nurseries at home and abroad
and combined those ideas with many of my own to
create a place that I hope you'll think is something
The flower posing malevolently with me in the picture is a tropical Aristolochia or Dutchman's pipe.
A Home for Léa our new Phoenician Intern
Léa will be arriving in Vancouver from France in late June (about June 20th) to complete a two month internship required by her degree program in Landscaping and Horticulture. She will be spending two months living in Vancouver and working full time at the nursery. She is looking for accomodation with a Canadian family. She would prefer accomodation within cycling distance to the nursery or on a convenient transit route. If you are interested in billeting her for two months this summer please contact Gary at email@example.com. Let me know your address and about the members of your household. Léa expects to pay her way though she is looking for accomodation that is also easy on her budget as she is a student.
Upcoming Workshops
This Weekend!
CONTAINER SERIES | Containers to Die For: Discover the Easy Secrets to Success with Perennial Containers | Instructor: Cliff Thorbes | Saturday May 9th, two workshops starting at 10am and 2pm | $15 | This is a fun hands-on workshop for gardeners of all levels who are interested in learning how to successfully create gorgeous perennial containers. After some practical and design instruction each participant will plant up and take home their own container. Please bring your own large pot (minimum 12-14 inches in diametre) with enough space for at least 3 to 5 one gallon perennials. A large, black, seven gallon plastic pot can be provided at an additional cost of $6. Please order your pot when you book your workshop.
POWER OF PERENNIALS SERIES | Grasses that Captivate: The Transformative Powers of Ornamental Grasses | Instructor: Shelley Brignall | Saturday September 12th, 10am | $15 |
DOWN TO EARTH SERIES | Phoenix Fresh Winter Veggies: Plant Up a Container with Cool Season Edibles | Instructor: Shelley Brignall | Saturday September 19th, 10am | $15 |
CONTAINER SERIES | Jewels of the Spring Garden: Bulbs for Spring Containers | Instructor: Shelley Brignall | Saturday September 26th, 10am | $15 |
CONTAINER SERIES | Winter Containers to Die For: Plant Up a Container to Create Winter Interest | Instructor: Cliff Thorbes | Saturday October 3rd, two workshops starting at 10am and 2pm | $15 |
Spaces are limited. Please call (604-270-4133) or
visit the nursery to book your space. Payment is required
when booking. If you would like to take advantage of
one of our special offers please let us know at the
start of your booking.
Each workshop requires a minimum of 10 people and
a maximum of 15-25 depending on the workshop. If the
minimum is not met we may not be able to run the workshop
in which case we will contact you a few days before
the scheduled date of the workshop and give you a credit towards another class, a credit at the nursery, or a refund.
Workshop participants will receive a 15% discount
on any purchases they wish to make the day of their
workshop. We cannot give rainchecks on this discount so please plan for enough time to do some shopping after your workshop or head off for some lunch and then return in the afternoon.
The Home Renovation Tax Credit
[Note: I'm reprinting this article from last month just to remind you. It's a great year to make improvements to your home and garden.]
The Government of Canada has introduced a special tax credit for gardeners and home improvement afficionados. For expenditures between $1000 and $10,000 you can receive 15% back up to a maximum of $1350 when you file your 2009 tax return. The eligibility period is from January 27th, 2009 until February 1st 2010. So this upcoming year is a great time to make improvements to your house and garden - put in new beds, renovate old beds, or put in that new garden feature you have always wanted.
You can view more information here.
What Can I Claim?
• laying new sod
• purchasing trees, shrubs, perennials
• decks, retaining walls, pathways
• irrigation and lighting systems
• ponds and waterfalls
• garden sheds
• professional landscape design services
• professional landscape contractor services
This is the perfect time to landscape your front and/or backyard. To be eligible, expenditures incurred in relation to a renovation or alteration to an eligible dwelling (or the land that forms part of the eligible dwelling) must be of an enduring nature and integral to the dwelling, and includes the cost of labour and professional services, building materials, fixtures, rentals, and permits.
Who Can Claim? About 4.6 million families in Canada are expected to benefit from the credit. Taxpayers can claim the HRTC when filing their 2009 tax return. Eligibility for the HRTC is family based. For the purpose of the credit, a family is generally considered to consist of an individual, and where applicable, the individual's spouse or common-law partner. Family members will be able to share the credit.
In-Nursery Design Service
you new to the vast world of perennials?
Or just stuck
for design ideas?
Do you want to plant a brand new garden bed?
Or do you
need to spruce up an existing border?
We offer
in-nursery consultations with trained design professionals
in a fun streamlined process that will get you
the results you crave at a great value. Our goal is
to help you design a garden that reflects you and your
tastes. To do this we will work with you at the nursery
to develop a design that you'll love filled with plants
that you love. This service will also save you time and money by helping you avoid
many of the pitfalls related to plant selection and
design that can detract from the success of your garden
space. This is a service for the do-it-yourself gardener
who wants to plant the garden themselves. While we can give advice on hardscape, our main focus
is on softscaping, that is the selection and artful
combination of plants for an existing space.
What we do:
What we don't do:
(If what you are looking for is listed in this last section you will need to hire a designer or landscaper. We would be happy to make some suggestions.)
How it
Fill our our questionnaire with questions about your goals for your space, your
taste in design and plants, and details of the size,
soil and light conditions in your garden. We would also
like you to provide us with some pictures of your space
at this time. Part of the questionnaire requires you
to list plants that you like. We recommend that you
spend a half hour to an hour at the nursery perusing
our vast selection of perennials and listing the ones
that you find interesting.
2. Hand
in your questionnaire and book a time to return to the
nursery for your design consultation.
Before you return, your designer will look over the
information you've provided and begin thinking about
your space.
3. Return
to the nursery for your design consultation at the pre-arranged
time. Your designer will work with you to select the
perfect perennials for your site and goals and then
show you how to incorporate them into a beautiful design.
If you like, we will send you home with a plant-by-number
4. Take
your plants home and get planting. We would love it
if you could send us your before and after pictures!
service will cost $45 per hour, much less than the average
cost of a design consultation. The minimum is one hour.
Periods less than an hour will be charged in half hour
increments of $22.50 each. When we have done these kinds
of consulations in the past we have found that the average
time required is usually one to three hours, though
some larger projects have required four or more hours. For larger spaces we suggest a few separate visits so you can work on manageable pieces each time.
If you have any questions, please call the nursery at
604-270-4133 or view our website for more information.
Upcoming Talks by Phoenix Perennials Owner Gary Lewis
Among Kangaroo Paws and Grass Trees: The Incredible Spring Flora of Western Australia
Wednesday May 13th, 7:30 pm, VanDusen Botanical Gardens, Floral Hall, 37th and Oak, Vancouver.
Presented by the Alpine Garden Club of BC. Please call Philip MacDougall for more information 604 580 3219.
Upcoming Events
World Rose Festival
The Ultimate Rose Experience
June 19th-21st, 2009
Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre
Roses, rose shows, rose gardens, rose workshops, rose markets, rose artwork, rose culinary treats – join us in celebrating and experiencing the Rose!
The World Rose Festival offers an amazing variety of events, all highlighting the beauty of the rose. Thousands of rose blooms will be on display!
Phoenix Perennials will be presenting a 1000 square foot signature display garden at the Festival which will be held in the new portion of the Convention Centre under the giant green roof.
Advance tickets available at Phoenix Perennials.
Advance tickets $18
At the door $22
Seniors/students $16 available at the door only with valid ID
For more information visit the World Rose Festival website.
Phoenix Perennials
Charity Shopping Weekend
to benefit the
North American Intestinal Disease Education and Awareness Society (IDEAS)
Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st, 2009
to our upcoming Charity Shopping Weekend -- a fun way for Phoenix Perennials to give
back to the community and for customers of Phoenix
Perennials to feel less guilty about their plant buying habits.
What is the North American Intestinal Disease Education and Awareness Society (IDEAS)?:The mission of IDEAS is to raise awareness of gastrointestinal diseases and disorders through education and public campaigns based on ability rather than disability. The emphasis is on funding education and related activity programs for children, youth and young adults to improve understanding of gastrointestinal disease and to remove the stigma associated with the illnesses; and on funding research with an emphasis on children and youth living with gastrointestinal diseases particularly in respect to quality of life, health and well being.
For more
information please visit: www.ideas-na.com.
How it
Works: Gardeners who wish to support IDEAS
can come shopping at Phoenix Perennials on the designated dates. When you pay for your
plants, tell us that you have come to support this charity and we will donate 25% of the price of your
plants to this worthy cause. But remember: you must tell us why you have come to the nursery on that day
or we won't know to donate the proceeds from your sale.
Other than that, it's pretty simple: all you have to
do is shop!
your Calendars! See you at the Charity Shopping Weekend!
at Phoenix
Gary's Picks of New, Notable and
Luscious Plants at the Phoenix Candy Store
Romneya coulteri - California Tree Poppy - These upright blue-green foliaged poppies are deciduous subshrubs that prefer a large sunny space in well-drained soil. For this you will be rewarded with an almost continuous display of large, pure white, crinkled petals with prominent raised yellow stamens that appear on the ends of each stem and look like fried eggs sunny side up! Hard to establish and resents being moved - so choose the spot well! Cut back to the base in winter and mulch, if exposed.
Thamnocalmus crassinodus - Blue Stem Bamboo - Billowing masses of exquisite tiny leaves on upright culms that emerge with a blue-grey bloom and turn deep-red with good light. Very tightly clump forming with a height of about 4 metres (12 feet). Best planted in shade.
Visit the nursery to discover a number of other truly clumping bamboos!
And much, much more!
Changing Email Addresses?
Be sure to let us know your new email address!
this E-Newsletter with a Friend
Word of mouth has been such an important part of our success and growth at Phoenix Perennials. Thank you to everyone who has told their friends about us and thank you in advance for continuing to introduce new people to our nursery! We couldn't do it without your kind patronage and support!
you have any other questions please contact us at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Perennials and Specialty Plants Ltd.
One of the largest and most exciting selections of perennials
in the Lower Mainland.
Specializing in distinct perennials, fragrant shrubs,
hardy subtropicals and the botanically intriguing.3380
No. 6 Road, Richmond (Between Bridgeport and Cambie)
visit our web page for information on the nursery, driving
directions and a map.
We are near the south end of the Knight Street Bridge
and very easy to get to from all of the surrounding
municipalities and beyond.
Days a Week 10am-5pm
February 27th through November 1st, 2009
Copyright Phoenix Perennials and Specialty Plants Ltd.
to the Articles Page
Contact Us | Home | © Phoenix Perennials


text:
Today I'm pleased to host Lorrie Unites-Struiff, author of GYPSY BLOOD, a fantasy based on the Roma culture. Welcome, Lorrie!
Being released within the next two weeks:
The COD club series with BTGN.
Story 1&2 will be included in the first book.
Come and meet Winnie Krapski who hugged a cherry tree during a lightning storm. The bolt slammed her, splitting the tree in half. The near-death experience bestowed her with a gift–one she'd rather not have.
Drafted into the C.O.D. Club (Call on the Dead) by Fat Phil Phillips, her mission is to grant the newly deceased's ghost one last reasonable request. Can Winnie honor her oath?
Well, she tries, but not before she lands in humorous situations that almost get her killed. She's one spunky broad.
I hope you try a copy and look forward to more of Winnie's adventures.
Also coming this fall from MuseItUp:
A Heap of Trouble.


text:
|You are in: World: Asia-Pacific
Wednesday, 29 August, 2001, 17:48 GMT 18:48 UK
Analysis: South-East Asia's Chinese
By Mangai Balasegaram in Kuala Lumpur
In most countries, Loh Yee Leng, a bright 21-year-old with a string of 'A' grades, would be a winning candidate for university. But in Malaysia, grades aren't the only criteria for entry into universities - race is as well.
Only a limited number of places at public universities are available for ethnic Chinese, who comprise 26% of Malaysia's population. Places are set aside for native Malays - even if their grades are lower.
The racial quota system at universities is part of a three-decade long policy to advance Malays, the "bumiputra" (sons of the soil). Malays also have special privileges in business and property, and dominate the civil service.
"The Chinese accept that many Malays deserve help. But these policies should now be structured according to need, not race," says Malaysian opposition politician Lim Guan Eng, adding that these policies have been misused and encourage cronyism.
A similar situation has existed for years in Indonesia, where the "pribumi" are accorded special rights in land ownership and business.
These policies were justified as affirmative action, to promote native populations against the economic muscle of the ethnic Chinese. The unwritten social contract across South-East Asia was that ethnic Chinese have to lose certain rights in return for citizenship.
'Jews of the East'
Ethnic Chinese have settled in South-East Asia for centuries, but most today are descendants of 19th century migrants from southern China.
Today, they are effectively the region's business class, controlling the bulk of listed companies in the region's stock markets - more than 80% in Thailand and Singapore, 62% in Malaysia, about 50% in the Philippines. In Indonesia, they control more than 70% of corporate wealth - although some dispute this figure.
The Chinese have faced similar segregation policies and laws controlling property to the Jews, notes south-east Asian expert Professor Amy Freedman, from the US Franklin and Marshall College.
Ms Freedman disputes the popular belief that the Chinese are naturally good businessman, looking instead to history for an explanation.
"The Chinese were kept from owning land and were used as middlemen by colonialists, leaving them in a position to own and operate business once colonialism ended," she says.
Divide and rule
Integration - and inter-marriage - of the community has been greatest in Thailand and Philippines, so much so that some are hardly recognisable as Chinese. Former Filipino leader Cory Aquino, for example, has Chinese blood.
The varying relations of ethnic Chinese with local populations are due to differences in religion as well as history. "The colonial powers treated the Chinese immigrants in different ways - the Dutch and the British used a divide and conquer method, the Spanish and the Americans worked on assimilating the whole population," Ms Freedman says.
Discrimination has been most acute in Indonesia, with the community the target of mob violence and riots. In May 1998, Chinese properties were looted and burnt and many people attacked. Nearly 170 Chinese women were also systematically raped, of whom 20 later died.
Many Chinese were also killed during Indonesia's 1965 anti-communist purge, in which some 500,000 lives were lost.
Many Chinese changed their names, but their identity cards would still mark their ethnicity.
However, such regulations have since gone, after former President Abdurrahman Wahid allowed the use of Chinese script and celebration of their festivals.
The community are now enjoying a cautious cultural revival - an indication that the culture has been as resilient as "bamboo", to quote one ethnic leader.
See also:
13 Aug 01 | Asia-Pacific
Cupid takes aim at Malaysian Chinese
18 Aug 01 | From Our Own Correspondent
Religious tolerance in Indonesia
04 Jul 01 | Asia-Pacific
Timeline: Malaysia
Top Asia-Pacific stories now:
Links to more Asia-Pacific stories are at the foot of the page.
Links to more Asia-Pacific stories
|^^ Back to top
News Front Page | World | UK | UK Politics | Business | Sci/Tech | Health | Education | Entertainment | Talking Point | In Depth | AudioVideo
To BBC Sport>> | To BBC Weather>>
© MMIII | News Sources | Privacy


text:
LEGAZPI CITY, Dec. 13 (PNA) — The first-ever Agrarian Reform Information and Marketing Center (AIM-C) in Bicol has been established by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in the island-province of Catanduanes.
Constructed for an amount of PhP8.6 million through funds provided by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the facility, sitting on a donated lot in Barangay Datag, San Andres town, now serves as a post-harvest complex cum information provider.
Its operations and maintenance have been assigned to a huge group of local agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) organized into a multi-purpose cooperative but its use is open to all other farmers, surrounding communities, researchers and students, among others, who may need its services as a venue for learning on agrarian reform and agricultural market trends.
As a post-harvest service provider, the AIM-C also functions as a crop processing, rice and corn drying and storage facility as well as a marketing arm of farmers in the province, DAR Regional Director Luis Bueno Jr., based here, said on Thursday.
The complex is provided with a concrete building housing an office, library and conference and training hall, a warehouse and a solar dryer.
"Primarily, the AIM-C was established to develop agrarian reform communities (ARCs) into more productivity by way of training and seminars, promote their welfare through continuous education and enhance their earning capabilities through proper product marketing," Bueno said.
The project, which is the first in Bicol, is implemented under DAR's Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Project (ARISP), a national government development strategy with the primary goal of reducing poverty via agri-enterprise development, food security and enhancement of economic activities for ARCs throughout the country.
The ARISP, assisted by JICA, involves provision of rural infrastructures such as irrigation facilities, farm-to-market roads, post-harvest facilities, and rural water supply systems; organizational or institutional development; and agricultural and agri-enterprise development in the ARCs through appropriate training and capacity building approaches.
The ARISP, Bueno said, was conceptualized for the development of ARCs to give greater emphasis on agri-business enterprise development, provision of support infrastructure and formation of people's organizations (POs).
It provides ARC connectivity through support for the establishment of agri-business enterprises by promoting linkages between and among them to facilitate marketing of agri-based products with the provision of micro-finance and agricultural extension services within the province through the AIM-C, he explained.
Nationwide, the project covers at least 129 ARCs in 54 agrarian reform provinces where nearly 70,000 ARBs are targeted as beneficiaries.
Among the ARISP's objectives, according to Bueno, are to increase crop productivity; develop viable agribusiness enterprises opportunities in ARCs, thus, improving technology, agribusiness linkages and provision of appropriate facilities; and organize and strengthen POs to improve connectivity between and among cooperatives, resource institutions and business partners.
It has also been serving the improvement of the efficiency of commodity flow and mobility of people within, to and from the ARCs in support to agribusiness, livelihood and domestic activities; improving access to and availability of potable water in the communities and strengthening water users associations (WUAs) to operate and manage facilities.
At the end of the day, the ARISP is building upon and enhancing existing project management and monitoring and evaluation systems, the DAR regional chief said.
Among those involved in its implementation are the DAR as lead agency in charge of overall project management and carrying out of the institutional development component; and local government units (LGUs) that implement the potable water supply component and maintenance of the project's farm-to-market road (FMR) structures.
Also tapped as partner agencies are the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Agriculture (DA) and National Irrigation Administration (NIA).
The DPWH provides pre-engineering studies and implements the construction, rehabilitation and improvement of FMRs; DTI, TESDA and DA support agricultural and agribusiness development; and NIA does the implementation of irrigation sub-projects and the institutional development for irrigators' associations' component for irrigation.
Through the participation of these agencies, Bueno said, the ARISP uses the tripartite approach—a collaboration in the provision of rural infrastructures such as irrigation facilities, FMRs, post-harvest facilities and rural water supply systems aimed at increasing average household income of ARBs by at least 30 percent by way of rendering integrated package of support services.
Before the completion of the construction of the Catanduanes AIM-C, he said selected members of agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) in the province were made to undergo the Farmers' Field School (FFS) on organic farming as part of their institutional development.
The FFS, which focuses on technology transfer through a combination of lectures and actual field demonstrations on what have been previously discussed in the classroom, is where farmers are given a chance to have new field experiences.
It is a three-month training program composed of 16 sessions starting from planting until the time that the crop would be ready to be harvested.
The training program also equip farmers with the technology as a measure to further increase local production as it includes pests and diseases prevention, appropriate fertilizer application and water management that contribute immensely to a more efficient and improved plant growth to attain high yield.
After completing the program, which provides them knowledge on proven agricultural practices based on organic system, Bueno said, these ARBs are expected to increase their production out of their learning on crop protection and organic fertilizer and pesticide applications provided by the FFS through experts from the DA's Agricultural Training Institute.
They are also tasked to showcase to their peers the "miracles" of organic farming based on what they learned from the FFS using the facilities of the AIM-C, he added. (PNA)


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Alpine Loop in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. The road wasn't as narrow or the elevation as high but the scenic values were similar.
The infamous switchback and an editorial comment about how drivers negotiate this corner: While we were camped at the lake six vehicles drove through the switchback and down to the lake. Every single driver chose to make a two or three point right hand turn on the corner. Turning sharply to the right and driving to the edge of the road and then backing up. Repeating the process until their vehicle was headed down the road. A dangerous maneuver that risks catastrophe if an error is made.
The old timers did not make the turn in this fashion. In fact the vehicles that they drove couldn't have negotiated the corner the way modern drivers do. They constructed the road to avoid all the drama and used the "pull in, back up" method" to negotiate a tight pair of turns.
We could have driven the corner just like the old timers but a truck was parked on the upper landing blocking our path. So we had to make the three point turn. We would have pulled forward into the upper landing, backed about 60 yards down to the lower landing and then continued driving down to the lake.
My answer was that I didn't understand how to drive using landings until 1974 when my 70 year old grandfather explained to me how he drove roads in the Rockies back in the 1920's. He and his partner drove a two-wheel drive Model T Ford into some really remote locations. Sometimes I feel like a real light weight driving the back roads with four wheel drive, steel belted tires and a rear locker.
camped on the western flank of Glass Mountain and after sunset observed the lights of vehicles driving down this road.


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Oakland Park Music & Food Trucks on Main Street concert series are held at Oakland Park City Hall. This month, the free community event will host Tom Jackson Band on Friday, March 24th. Jackson and his band will bring their unique style of Country/Rock Oakland Park. Tom Jackson Band will take the stage playing from 7-10pm at Oakland Park City Hall 3650 N.E. 12th Avenue Oakland Park, FL 33334
Food for purchase will be available from a variety of food trucks as well as beer, wine and cocktails will be available for purchase from the host bar, Big Dog Station.
Music on Main Street is from 6:00pm-10pm in front of Oakland Park City Hall on Main Street. Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome. Ample free Parking.
Sign up to be on the South Florida Food and Wine mailing list


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Our Listings
13 HILL CREST Court in NIVERVILLE: Glenlea / Ste. Agathe / St. Adolphe / Grande Pointe / Ile des Chenes / Vermette / Niverville Residential for sale (Winnipeg area) : MLS®# 1304394
13 HILL CREST Court NIVERVILLE R0A 0A2 : Glenlea / Ste. Agathe / St. Adolphe / Grande Pointe / Ile des Chenes / Vermette / Niverville
Welcome home to this amazing 1400 square foot 4 bedroom bungalow in Fifth Avenue Estates in Niverville! This home is move in ready and features a gorgeous open concept kitchen/dining/living room area complete with vaulted ceilings. Living room has rich laminate flooring and a tile front gas fireplace. The kitchen boasts maple cabinets and a large corner pantry, pot drawers, under cabinet lighting and a gas stove. Dining room/eating area has a phone desk and garden door leading to a large deck. Master bedroom features a walk-in closet and 3 pc ensuite. Two more additional bedrooms and a 4pc bath finish the main floor. The basement is a man's dream cave featuring a huge rec room w/ built in shelving a 3pc bath with corner shower, a 4th bedroom and a den which could also be used as a 5th bedroom. Very large backyard and a 27x24 attached double garage complete this property. A mere 20 minutes from the city! Book your appointment today!
Listed by Century21Carrie.com
Listing information last updated on May 10, 2013 at 03:00 PM (UTC)


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DENVER (CBS4) – Investing in a lawn now can save vast amounts of money in both upkeep and water this summer.
Those in the business of gardening suggest getting a soil conditioner to sprinkle on the lawn now to help it grow, and to help condition it to retain more moisture. They can be purchased at any big box store and should cost less than $10 per container.
"It's a soil conditioner that conditions your lawn over a 6 week period. You have granular and liquid forms that will actually condition your lawn to hold and retain more moisture," Ryan Weston of Home Depot said.
Other tips are as follows:
— Rake out dead grass before treating a lawn
— Aerate now
— Fertilize now
— Water now
Try to fix the patches in grass rather than putting new sod down. It will save money in supplies and watering and also save time.
Tom Zingaro of Blue Lotus Designs says don't give up on grass and don't ignore it this spring. The hot days of summer are the worst time and the most expensive time to try and nurse a lawn back to health.


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Best Diaper Bag Reviews
Top Diaper Bags in 2019
Whether it's for an on-the-go diaper change or a whole weekend with the grandparents, selecting a great product from the best diaper bag reviews is essential to managing a successful nappy change. With the sheer number of supplies you have to fit into the unit, the diaper bag has to provide enough room and compartments for good organization.
Skip Hop Versa Diaper Bag
The Skip Hop Versa Diaper Bag is available in black, bronze, graphite, khaki brown and cream links design, giving you more options. The bag is made of polyester, ensuring waterproof ability. It is BPA-free, phthalate-free and PVC-free, just what the doctor ordered. The expandable center makes the bag larger by 20%, so there's more room to fit in baby's essentials, even a change of clothes. This best diaper bag in 2019 looks great hanging on a stroller and looks stylish when worn over the shoulder. Its non-skid stroller straps fit any standard stroller handle.
Not sure where to find the best deal? Click here to visit Amazon.com and get the best price for this model!
Carter's Zip Fashion Front-Stripe Diaper Bag
Made of 100% polyester, the Carter's Zip Fashion Front-Stripe Diaper Bag deserves all the praise it's been getting in the best diaper bag reviews. It has eight organizer pockets that let you put those tiny little baby essentials that your precious one may suddenly need including pacifiers, diaper pins, baby wipes, diaper rash ointment, sun block, small toys, etc. The zip down removable changing pad helps you manage a quick diaper change without laying baby on a dirty surface. The side bottle pockets let you have easy access to baby's milk without having to dig inside.
Not sure where to find the best deal? Click here to visit Amazon.com and get the best price for this model!
Skip Hop Duo Essential Diaper Bag
Whoever thought that diaper bags could be fashionable? Thanks to the Skip Hop Duo Essential Diaper Bag, being a mom on-the-go never looked more stylish. This best diaper bag in 2019 is made of textile, ensuring a nice, soft texture. The shoulder strap is 51.5 inches long so you won't have to reach into it awkwardly while carrying baby in the other arm. The large interior pocket and three small exterior pockets provide all the room and easy organization you might need. The bag comes with a changing pad and stroller straps for convenience.
If you are interested to read more on this product, click here to visit Amazon!
Diaper Dude Diaper Bag
Dad can still be a cool dude when bringing baby on a coffee run and a stroll in the park, thanks to the Diaper Dude Diaper Bag. Made of durable nylon, this bag is water proof to protect its contents and stay strong, just like mom and dad. It carries an ergonomic across-the-chest design that frees the hands to hold on to baby while on the go. The wide, adjustable padded strap ensures no-slip carrying on the shoulder. The large main compartment, three exterior zip-closed pockets plus elasticized bottle pocket on the side provide all the room you need for baby's essentials.
Click here to visit Amazon and find more customer reports!
JJ Cole Satchel Diaper Bag
The JJ Cole Satchel Diaper Bag doesn't even look or feel like a typical diaper bag. It is available in stylish colors and design that makes mom look chic while travelling with baby. The bag is fitted with stroller attachment grips for easy integration with a stroller. The bag comes with a lovely coordinating changing pad that enables on-the-go nappy change. The padded messenger strap is removable and gives you multiple carrying options. The diaper bag is safe to have around baby as it is PVC-free and phthalate-free. You can keep track of baby's necessities in style.
Click here to visit Amazon and check out the best offers on this model!


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Last week, twitter celebrated it's 8th birthday and to honor the occasion the social network let users relive their very first tweet. We joined twitter right in the heart of the 2012 Presidential campaign and our first tweet was about the Vice Presidential Debate between Joe Biden and Paul Ryan. We're so nerdy!
With all this power, we went back in time to find the first tweets from some of twitter's most popular users.
Katy Perry joined twitter with a cold!
Rihanna plugged an upcoming album? Let's go with that.
Justin Bieber asked us to check out his MYSPACE.
Seth Green confused his followers even more. (We think this is a joke, right?)
Oprah kept it classy.
Taylor Swift talked about her cat.
Kim Kardashian was like, "Hey guys, it's me, it's me! Look at me!"
What was your first tweet? Find it here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author's alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ora Media, LLC, its affiliates, or its employees.


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Pub Nights on the Brew Deck
Pub Night on the Brew Deck at Wagner Valley Brewing Co and Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery is an excellent way to enjoy a beautiful setting, fun live music, and of course, our own Wagner brews and wines! Our weekly Friday night summer concert series begins Memorial Day weekend and runs through Labor day weekend to help you kick off every weekend of your summer.
Wagner Valley Brewing Co. beers are available by the pint, pitcher, or growler during Pub Night. In addition, Wagner Vineyards offers all of its estate wines by the bottle or glass. Estate bottled grape juice, homemade Wagner Valley root beer, bottled water and other soft drinks are available for those looking for non-alcoholic options.
The cover charge is only $3 and picnic-style dinners are available for purchase on the brew deck by the Ginny Lee Cafe from 6pm-8pm. Pizzas are available for purchase beginning at 8pm and are available until we run out.
The 2019 Pub Night Band Schedule will be announced just before Spring 2019. Dinners available from 6-8pm, and music will be from 7-10pm. To keep up to date with Pub Night news – sign up for our e-news here!
Pub Night Schedule
To add any event to your own calendar or to subscribe to this calendar click on the "add to my calendar" link in any event.
There are no upcoming events.


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Advertise Here
Mahjong solitaire, also known as Shanghai Solitaire is an easy-to-learn but tough-to-master puzzle game, based on tile matching logic. In the game tiles are laid out in beautiful 3d shapes, and you have to remove all tiles from a layout to win the game. The rules restrict you to remove only matching tiles that have at least one side free, as well as its top.
Our Free Games and Puzzle Newsletter


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Jordan recognizes Westbrook's 2-Way game
After releasing the "Mirror Image" Why Not Zer0.1 last month, we're getting the 2nd colorway this weekend. For this sneaker, Jordan Brand recognizes that Russ is a force on both sides of the ball. The two contrasting shades of this new colorway celebrate his dynamic movement from one end of the court to the other. The Why Not Zer0.1 "2-Way" features a mesh upper, full-length Zoom Air for responsive cushioning and internal laces and a toggle similar to the Air Jordan VI to keep you locked in.
The Why Not Zer0.1 "2-Way" retails for Php 6,595 and will be available at Titan (Fort/Jordan @ Titan Vertis, Conrad, Shangri-la, Alabang, UPTC, Circuit) this Thursday, February 15.


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I was just reading an article on when to get your daughter's ear pierced. When Marguerite was born, we decided that it would have to be her decision. My own case wasn't the same; my mom had my ears pierced when I was still a baby. Nothing really untoward had happened although I do remember the nut/clutch got pushed too hard one time (through time and my fault) and I ended up with a wound on my lobe. I wasn't being responsible. They were just on my ears and it didn't occur to me to check on them, clean them, etc. My ears looked pretty though and I started wearing dangly earrings way too early (all my contemporaries at St. Scholastica - where dangly earrings were forbidden, at that - know that; one time my sister wore dangly earrings to school and a batchmate of mine told her, "You really are Ivy's sister."). Before everybody started wearing them, outré earrings were sort of my thing. I lost the passion when they got ordinary, lol.
Going back to ear piercing. I guess we, especially I, felt that it should be part of a rite of passage, thus making it more meaningful and appreciated being one of the "major" decisions of her early life; that it would be safer and less complicated to do it when Marguerite could be responsible for it; that little girls look more their age (for want of a better term) with unpierced ears... I did have second thoughts when Marguerite started demanding to put on earrings. While she's this age, she can be satisfied with hanging hook earrings from the top of her ears. Later, I might get her some clipons, but overall, I'm happy with the decision not to get her ears pierced yet. Plus, I read the following from here:
Please, please read this and be warned! My oldest daughter is 15 1/2 now. We had her ears pierced when she was small. She had no problems with the piercings themselves however, when she was 5 she woke up one morning and her lobe was torn completely. There was no blood, no open flesh to be sutured back together. We were at a loss and consulted with our doctor right away. The doctor said that since there was no open flesh or wound, he could not suture this back together and we would have to consult with a plastic surgeon, which we did. The plastic surgeon advised us that it is NEVER a good idea to have childrens ears pierced at a young age because the cartlidge in the lobe is too young and it's VERY easily torn. He said that over time the posts had acted like a little saw, slowly working their way down the lobe until this morning when they finally tore the lobe completely. Since she was so young, he said that she would have to undergo general anesthesia to have it repaired.


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"Don't Tread on Me" Coast Guard coin
Exhibiting fierce pride and an insatiable appetite for victory, America's military has vigorously defended the cause of freedom for more than 200 years.
Battling America's enemies on near and distant shores, the courageous warriors of America's Armed Forces have confronted each and every threat to the nation's security with trademark tenacity and unparalleled skill.
The bold fighting spirit of America's military men and women is captured in the classic slogan: "Don't Tread on Me." This enduring motto, which traces its origins to America's Revolutionary War, still serves as an emblem of the strength of the world's most powerful military force.
This coin pays tribute to the men and women of America's Armed Forces, who risk their lives to secure our freedom. The obverse replicates the design of the original ensign displayed by American forces in the Revolutionary War. The reverse bears the U.S. Coast Guard seal.
Minted in a brass alloy and finished in bronze, this coin is imbued with enamel accents on both sides. Each coin comes packaged with a header card that contains a tribute to America's Armed Forces.
1-7/8 inch (47mm) round


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By completing your order, you understand that the products(s) you are purchasing are U.S. models and may have power / voltage requirements different from that of your country.
Prices shown in currencies other than US Dollars are estimates based on current exchange rates. We will charge your credit card in US Dollars on the day your order is shipped, and the conversion to your local currency will be done at the prevailing rate by your credit card issuer.
ProSound and Stage Lighting will not mark your parcel as a "gift", declare a value lower than the actual price paid, or otherwise prepare false customs information.
The Color Pac 150N is a 15W RGBW LED that illuminates a long and narrow beam. It consists of a 10° beam angle that can be used in many remote applications. With a long lasting battery and compact portable design, it is simple and easy to operate. The Color Pac contains WDMX protocol, which facilitates the creation of mapping walls, pathways, and even dinner tables. This unit is 64 IP rated, making it compliant in both indoors, outdoors and damp locations. This light is available in black and white housing and has multiple accessories available. Adding a vase over it can illuminate any flower arrangements, making a center piece pop. Using multiple units to create a wash effect or better uplight can add a luminous and colorful addition to your vision. These small compact fixtures are the future of low profile lights.


text: tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3934468926586776765.post7250884094183368398..comments2019-02-17T14:00:38.891-08:00Comments on Travels With Carole: Good Eats: Chun Shui Tang Cultural Tea House, Taichung, Taiwan Carole Terwilliger Meyershttps://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-3934468926586776765.post-13526428934903739432017-02-25T17:44:30.400-08:002017-02-25T17:44:30.400-08:00Thanks for giving us this bit of history. I love b...Thanks for giving us this bit of history. I love bubble tea, too. So does my whole family. Like you, I prefer the pearl milk tea, especially the taro flavor. Envy that you learned how to make it!carol colbornhttps://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-3934468926586776765.post-91931076030459159442017-02-24T10:56:32.480-08:002017-02-24T10:56:32.480-08:00Interesting article. I love the fact that you went...Interesting article. I love the fact that you went to a make-your-own bubble tea class. That just sounds like so much fun and it looks very tasty too.Sue Reddelhttps://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-3934468926586776765.post-16001236453534063372017-02-23T14:51:36.500-08:002017-02-23T14:51:36.500-08:00Taiwan sounds like just my kind of place - I love ...Taiwan sounds like just my kind of place - I love iced black tea and although I've never been keen on the tapioca balls in bubble tea, this chocolate milk tea with pearls sounds and looks delicious! A Taste for Travelhttps://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-3934468926586776765.post-74321930799759926752017-02-21T09:02:57.404-08:002017-02-21T09:02:57.404-08:00What a fun experience. I did not know this history...What a fun experience. I did not know this history of bubble tea. So cool to find out how to make it.Donna Jankehttps://email@example.com


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So things are not quite so clear any more. We had an echocardiogram done on her, and they said that her heart was working like a normal heart. So if it was "mild heart disease," it is gone now? They advised to continue giving the diuretic and eventually take her off of it, since it seemed to be making her feel all better. However now she is back to wheezing, even though we have stayed on the same med. that had seemed to stop the wheezing before and made her more active. Now she has been sitting in a sort of tensed position most of the time, with her fur ruffled up, wheezing.
My other guinea pig Mimi is also exhibiting some weird symptoms(?) She has watery eyes, however this is a problem she has had on and off since she was a baby, I frequently need to keep her eyes clean from watering just because of the way her fur type is I believe. However she has started smacking her mouth/licking her tongue around and making a mouth smacking noise pretty often, which she never used to do before. She also makes a bit of a rough breathing or grunting sound when she folds in half to clean herself. I could just be being very paranoid on this stuff with Mimi, but they are a combination of odd things which are unusual for her. And since Lulu has an apparently mysterious illness, I'm just not sure what could be going on now.
Thanks for any opinions/ideas.


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K-12 STEM Activities (REMS): Overview
The REMS Program is funded by the Toyota USA Foundation.
The Toyota U.S.A. Foundation supports K-12 education programs with a focus on math, science and environmental science. The Foundation partners with leading organizations and institutes serving diverse populations across all 50 states.
"The industrial engineering lab activity was interesting and it gave me an opportunity to explore an engineering field."
~High School Student
"This robotics program and the engineering lab activity in the Toyota Lab has made me confident in my choice to become an industrial engineer and even more confident on which college to go to."
~ G.E.A.R.s participant and middle school student
"The Skateboard Assembly was my favorite activity because I felt like an engineer and I love putting things together."
~ WE @ RIT summer camper
at RIT on YouTube
Especially for educators using this site: We tried to make navigation through the sites for each of the nine activities as easy as possible. We suggest that you first open the Lesson Plan for each activity as it describes the sequence of steps to follow when using this activity in the classroom.
The Relevant Education in Math and Science (REMS) Program uses real-world scenarios to make math and science fun and meaningful for students in grades 5-12. Activities are designed to provide improved understanding and retention of mathematical and scientific concepts through the use of engineering practices.
Made possible through Toyota USA Foundation funding, the REMS curriculum options include nine online lesson plans and interactive activities themed to examine three pressing challenges in the US: preserving sustainable, competitive manufacturing; distributing products and services across the world; and developing and delivering efficient health care services. Each of the lesson plans provides age-appropriate math and science curriculum that tie to the Common Core Learning Standards for elementary, middle and high school students.
These On-line lessons capture the essence of the in-lab laboratory experiences and bring interactive activities to a national audience of educators and students who would not otherwise have access to the laboratory lessons. The project is producing in-lab and on-line engineering activities that will reach more than 1,500 students in grades 5 -12 over the life of the grant and potentially thousands of additional students via the on-line lessons.
The REMS program grew out of a collaborative effort between two programs at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) – the Toyota Production Systems (TPS) Lab and the Women in Engineering Program (WE@RIT).
Project Goals:
- Create an effective math and science curriculum for grades 5-12 with a hands-on engineering focus
- Increase number of 5th – 12th grade math and science educators using age-appropriate activities linking math and science to real-world engineering challenges
- Increase the number of students who have access to fun, age-appropriate hands-on activities that link math and science to real world problems.


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Tanya is having a Giveaway at "Friendship Crossing". Draw will take place on 25 November 2011. Now extended till 30 November 2011.
Lisa at "Hocky Mom Stitchin' Hobby" is celebrating 3 years blogoversary and is having a Giveaway. There will be two winners!! Deadline to enter is 27 November 2011.


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Results 1 to 10 of 10
#1 Amtrak derailment: Train crashes near Tacoma, Washington, fatalities reported12-18-2017, 03:22 PMSeveral people were killed and dozens were injured Monday after an Amtrak train derailed while traveling on the first day of a new route outside Tacoma, Washington, careening off a bridge and onto a highway below.
"The casualties include multiple injuries and fatalities," Detective Ed Troyer, a spokesman for the Pierce County Sheriffs Department, said of the 7:40 a.m. crash.
No motorists were killed, officials said.
The National Transportation Safety Board said it was launching a team to determine what happened.
There were 78 passengers and five crew members on board the train headed from Seattle to Portland, Amtrak said.
Passenger Chris Karnes told MSNBC that the train derailed while traveling on tracks that are part of a new route in and out of Tacoma. The southbound train had just passed the city of Dupont and was traveling about 70 mph, he said.
It looked like something was on the track. A helicopter shot showed where the engine began plowing dirt as it entered the curve... and nearby was a hunk of metal.
No two derailments are the same and this one looked complicated. Some sort of energy-transfer caused the derailment to finish on the opposite side of the track it originally started on.
They said it was a new rail. Maybe there was something wrong with the construction or it was faulty equipment. They also said the rail's speed control equipment had not yet been activated.
- Join Date
- Oct 2017
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- Sunny South Fla.
- Posts
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going into a 30 mph curve doing 80 mph may have had something to do with it.
Of course the left thinks President Trump did it to draw attention away from the Russian witch huntI love the sound of liberal heads exploding in the morning!!
Toxically masculine and proud of it!
I will give up my guns when the liberals give up their illegal aliens.
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This isn't the first time this has happened. For a period of time Amtrak was infamous for trainwrecks so my money is on speed. As a fun note, an Antifa group in that area took down instructions on how to sabotage trains.
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- Jan 2017
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AMTRACK is a BLACK HOLE for $$$$$$$, their safety record is abysmal, they are just another worthless federal union that over charges and provides lousy service.Don
Major US Army Infantry (RET)
Hill Country of Texas
Conservative, Constitutionalist, Capitalist, Christian. I speak: John Wayne, Johnny Cash and John Deere...
#9 Amtrak train that derailed onto I-5 was reportedly going 80 in a 30-mph zone,12-19-2017, 04:16 PM
FourWinds has been proven right.
As noted in my original post
Don Anderson, mayor of Lakewood, a city along the new route, said he was among many in the area concerned about the speed of the trains that would be traveling through their communities. He said he was part of an unsuccessful bid to stop the switch, or change it.
"Our community has been very concerned about the safety of this modification of the rail route for several years," Anderson told MSNBC's Andrea Mitchell.
The Amtrak train that derailed Monday morning on its inaugural trip through a faster railway route was supposed to slow dramatically before entering the curve where the crash occurred.
The speed limit at the curve where the train crosses Interstate 5 is 30 miles per hour, said state transportation department spokeswoman Barbara LaBoe, while the speed limit on most of the track is 79 mph. She said speed-limit signs are posted two miles before the lowered speed zone and then just before the zone.
"Engineers are trained to slow trains according to posted speeds," she said.
Daniel Konzelman, who was driving on I-5 south parallel to the train, said he was traveling at 60 mph or more and watched the train pass his vehicle about a half-mile before the crash. A website that monitors locations and speeds of Amtrak trains, transitdocs.com, reported that the train was going about 81 mph shortly before the derailment, The Associated Press reported
And now this
Amtrak derailment: Train was traveling at 80 mph in 30-mph zone
The train that careened off a bridge outside Tacoma, Washington, killing three people was traveling at 80 mph on a 30-mph stretch of track, federal investigators confirmed late Monday
During a late-night briefing with reporters, NTSB board member Bella Dinh-Zarr added that Train 501 of Amtrak's Cascades service from Seattle headed south to Portland, Oregon, was carrying 80 passengers, three crew and two service personnel.
She said it was "too early to tell" why the train was travelling at 80 mph.
As a side note
The Amtrak train that derailed in Philadelphia in 2015 was doing 106 mph when it entered a curve with a 50 mph speed limit.
Amtrak must hire failed Formula 1 drivers as engineers
Last edited by Banacek; 12-19-2017 at 04:32 PM.
I took Amtrack to NYC in 1990. At the time, air fare was fairly expensive and my friend and I didn't want to drive and have to deal with parking. I had a great time and a positive experience overall. We sat in the coach on the way there and had a sleeper car on the way back. It cost around $350 or so, round trip. On the way out, we spent a good part of the night in the club car. We met some really interesting people-NYC residents who told us good places to visit and eat at, a German student travelling around the US for the summer, a church youth group on their way to do some community service, etc.
My only complaints were that we were stuck on the line for about an hour in the Hudson Valley. We were never told why. We also were stuck in Albany for a while, but we weren't stuck on the train at that stop and could go into the station and get food or whatever.
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The Rudder - Bound Magazine - Yachts/Yachting - 6 Monthly Issues - Volume XXVII - January to June..
Up for sale is this vintage 1961 catalogue of Nautical and marine goods sold by Dave Atwater's Ship ..


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A cutaway neckline and thin spaghetti straps bring a modern edge to the lace bodice, while a soft tulle skirt keeps things airy and romantic.
- By BHLDN
- By BHLDN
- Back zip with hook-and-eye closure
- Polyester; polyester lining
- Professionally clean
- Imported
- See fit guide for detailed sizing information
- This style runs true to size. Your typical size is recommended.
- Style #42884072


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A blackened copper finish and basket weave frosted glass shade contribute modern southwest style to this fascinating contemporary 3-light bath fixture from Varaluz.More Details >
This contemporary bath light features a three light design with woven basket accents backed with stylish frosted glass for a handsome, definitive Southwest look. Finished in a blackened copper finish, it gives new life to a variety of spaces, from hallways to bathroom vanities and beyond. The Dreamweaver is perfectly paired with any earthy, contemporary decor.


text: Aug 26th 2015Instagram Photo Right before riding the @CapitalWheel! #laroseontheroad #DC #suchatourist Comments Body * More information about text formats Text format Medium MediumImages with a data-picture-mapping attribute will be responsive, with a file size appropriate for the browser width. Post Image Add a new file Files must be less than 96 KB.Allowed file types: gif jpg jpeg. Leave this field blank


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Obesity is an Epidemic and is at an all-time high in the Unites States. Obesity increases the chance of developing multiple disease processes, such as Bone and Joint Diseases, Cancer, Coronary Artery Disease, Coronary Vascular Disease, Diabetes, Heart Attacks, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, and also increases the possibility of strokes.
In our office, we will offer you a lifestyle solution that you will be comfortable with while losing as much weight as you would like. Our trained professionals will consult with you and offer a proven program that will increase the quality of your life, decrease pain in your body, and help you feel in control.
Our proven medical weight loss program will help you change your lifestyle and not only offer you a temporary solution to getting healthier, but a long lasting permanent pathway to staying healthy.


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Ink&Clog Studio along with MightyJaxx and Woes from ArmyofSnipers (LA) on our trip to Jakarta, Indonesia for the annual PopCon Asia 2013 convention.
Thanks to all for their generous hospitality and taking care of us! We appreciate and love you guys!
02 August, 2013
POPCON ASIA 2013 video
Posted by Clogtwo at Friday, August 02, 2013


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Learn More
Sampling Systems™ Stainless Storage Drum
Robust, hygienic design makes them suitable for the most demanding of applications. Samping Systems™ Stainless Storage Drum has a very high quality finish and is supplied with sturdy side handles, lid, gasket and clamband.
Marca: Sampling Systems™ A126-200
Detalles adicionales : Peso : 76.05000kg
- Open top pharmaceutical and chemical grade drums with lids
- Sizes from 5L to 200L (larger sizes available on request)
- High quality, heavy duty construction
- Product contact parts made from 316L Stainless Steel
- Crevice free interior
- Lid secured with clampband (304 Stainless Steel)
- Lid gasket - FDA acceptable silicone rubber
- Hygienic top rim
- Supplied with side handles
- Fully welded GMP correct construction
|Storage Container
|Stainless Steel
|Lid, clamp and silcone seal


text: In physics, the term phase has two distinct meanings. The first is a property of waves. If we think of a wave as having peaks and valleys with a zero-crossing between them, the phase of the wave is defined as the distance between the first zero-crossing and the point in space defined as the origin. Two waves with the same frequency are "in phase" if they have the same phase and therefore line up everywhere. Waves with the same frequency but different phases are "out of phase." The term phase also refers to states of matter. For example, water can exist in liquid, solid, and gas phases. In each phase, the water molecules interact differently, and the aggregate of many molecules has distinct physical properties. Condensed matter systems can have interesting and exotic phases, such as superfluid, superconducting, and quantum critical phases. Quantum fields such as the Higgs field can also exist in different phases.


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In late August, I arrived at the Free Church of St. John of Kensington eager to begin my year of service and intentional community living. I honestly did not know know what to expect. My doubts about my placement soon dissipated as I was warmly welcomed by a team of individuals who were active community members. The vicar of Free Church, Padre Jose taught me step-by-step about the various community services Free Church provides, including the Food Pantry and the After-school program. Not only do I work directly with the community but also with local officials to obtain funding and help address some of the needs of the community.
After personally speaking with community members about their vision of more accessible services and better outreach programs for the community, I have contacted three other churches and local organization for possible outreach initiatives. Some of my work included meeting with the Office of Councilman Maria Quinones to see how City Hall can provide grants for the after-school program, the food pantry and other service projects for this year. I was amazed to experience firsthand how the community can assess their own problems and seek government representatives to fortify the community. I envision my partnership with residents, the Councilman, and church advocates as a braid, constantly weaving different resources together to make the community stronger.Last week, Padre Jose and I attended an Open House (Conocenos) at Taller Puertorriqueno, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping students deepen their understanding of Puerto Rican and Afro-Latino culture through art and educational experiences. I absolutely fell in love with this organization! The Open House included a bomba and plena dance class, students illustrations, photographs, artwork and performance. I gained inspiration from attending the various activities and am currently brainstorming different activities for students at the Free Church of St. John program. I have high prospects for this year and can't wait to update you all with my progress! Anisa serves at the Free Church of St. John.


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Providing the highest quality lifts for 75 years
Nussbaum has been designing, manufacturing and selling the highest quality lifting equipment in the world for 75 years. From plants in Germany and North Carolina, only the finest materials are used to create a product that is the most productive and longest lasting you can purchase in the marketplace today. Old fashioned family values drive Nussbaum not a big corporation board room. We have the product to make you more profitable from our two post lift that can be installed in a 12' bay with 24" still between two lifts to the double scissor Jumbo that we introduced to the US 20+ years ago.
Technical issues? Please email us!
**Please note that this page is for logging into your MyPlanner account only, which allows you to create your NADA Show event itinerary and connect with Show exhibitors.
Looking for answers to registration questions? Visit the NADA Show Attendee Registration page for additional info, or call Experient Customer Service (the NADA Show registration vendor) at 800-465-7110 (International registrants, please call 844-460-4636). You may also email Customer Service at firstname.lastname@example.com.
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The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMA Pakistan) was
established in 1951 with the objective to regulate and promote the profession of
Management Accounting in Pakistan. By virtue of the authority vested in by the Act
and Regulations, the Institute has been entrusted with the responsibility to provide
education, examine competencies and confer internationally recognized post-graduate
professional certification. After qualifying and fulfilling prescribed requirement of
membership, the Institute awards following designations:
The students on qualifying examinations and meeting membership requirement are
awarded membership of the Institute which is a professional and legal status to
join the fraternity of Institute's members. The membership is a life-longassociation
which tends to continue by paying prescribed annual subscription fee. Currently,
the Institute has over 5,000 members in Pakistan and abroad. Out of total members,
about 20% of members are serving abroad which shows the contribution of the Institute
towards global economic development.
The Management Accountant is an official journal of the Institute which benefits both members
and students in particular and its readers in general to update their knowledge about International
Accounting Standards, new management concepts, changing business scenarios and spectacular
developments taking place in Information Technology.
To keep members and students in particular and other professionals in general,
the Institute as part of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) regularly organizes
nationwide trainings, seminars, workshops and conferences. The CPD activity helps in
the capacity building and is essential for a professional to remain updated with the
changes taking place in the profession.
The deliberations made and insightfulness shared in these CPD programs become a
source of immense learning for members and students. At an average, in a year, more
than 2,000 CPD hours are nationwide conducted at the Institute.
The Institute has a proper quality Control system in place that encompasses policies,
procedures and periodic reviews of the work of CMA Firms engaged in public practice.
The objective is to ensure that practicing members and firms are engaged in audit and
other practices are in line with the relevant rules, regulations and professional standards.
The well-defined Quality Assurance Review Framework helps firms in maintaining set benchmarks
and to keep them updated with the changes taking place in the profession to provide
state-of-the-art services to the clients. Through Quality Assurance, practicing firms
are not only meeting customers' expectations but also complying global standards followed
by practicing firms all over the world.
The Institute is continuously updating its members and industry through a regular
Technical Updates in the following areas:
A member desirous to do practice, after fulfilling the requirement, receives Certificate of Practice (COP).
The certificate is a license for members to do public practice and management consulting functions.
Under the license, a member may act as liquidator, trustee, executor, administrator, arbitrator,
receiver, adviser or as representative for costing, financial, company law and taxation matters or
may take up an appointment that may be made by Federal Government or Provincial Government or a Court of
Law or any other authority established under law, or may act as the secretary of a company in the
professional capacity.
The Corporate Relations function of the Institute assists students in their career development.
It creates training and internship opportunities for students and helps in bringing awareness about
the role of profession of management accounting in the industry. Keeping in view that corporate
sector is ultimate beneficiary of Management Accountants; the Corporate Relations function
invites dignitaries from the corporate sector and takes various steps to strengthen relationship
with the corporate sector.
The Institute has been providing professional education of high standard to its students since its inception.
To encourage the brilliant students, the Institute offers subsidies to position holders, at the time of admission as well as
during their education. Moreover, Proficiency Awards are given to candidates in recognition of their outstanding performance
in the examination.
A Special Certificate of Merit and Cash Reward is only awarded to the examinees who pass all the courses securing
the highest marks but not less than 70% marks in aggregate amongst all the examinees in same level and pass them
in first attempt. In addition to the Special Certificate of Merit, the examinee is awarded a cash prize of Rs. 10,000.
Note: Applicable to all four (4) levels.
A Certificate of Merit is only awarded to the examinees securing first position in a course in first attempt
with highest marks but not less than 70% marks amongst the examinees appeared in that examination. Moreover, he/ she
passes all the courses of that level in same attempt.
Note: Applicable to all twenty (20) courses.