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We all know that the market is very volatile right now. Among all those volatilities there are certain indicators those are pointing towards a rate rebound. The short term interest rates like variable rates will go up in 2015 according to RBC Financial Market Forecasts. It hasRead more →
Ultra long term bonds that will mature in the end of 2064 were issued by the Government of Canada with a yield of 2.96%. According to the press release by the government – there are two major benefits – one is low cost long term refinancing andRead more →
Many lenders are still qualifying borrowers with an above 5% interest rate. According to Bank of Canada the lending rate (Conventional mortgage – 5-year) stands at 4.99%. The same rate is generally used to qualify a borrower who is seeking less than 5 years fixed terms orRead more →
Please don't let the headline fool you. Variable rate discounts are drying up a bit too. So, when fixed rates are descending then variable rates are running towards an opposite direction. Bond yields are sinking like a stone in water. Obviously recent share market hiccup forced theRead more →
Since Bank of Canada declared that it has no intention to kick start the bullish run for the overnight rate – the bond market started to show strength. Our expectation from the debt deal in US was that it may return the bond yields to their pastRead more →
The politicians in United States have reached a deal to end the latest political fiasco on the debt ceiling. (Somewhat like spouses quarrelling over whether to increase the limit on the credit card) As a result the fear of US default is pushed back till February 7th.Read more →
Zero coupon yield curve may not be an important chart for our daily schedule but when you are deciding what to do with the future of your mortgage then it comes handy. Yield curve is a reflection of the mind set of bond investors. It shows whatRead more →
The debate in US congress is still raging if to pass the law that funds several government programs. The existing law expires tonight and the political tug-of-war continues with the life of government employees at stake. This debate is not the end. Next political showdown will beRead more →
Last Friday, Canadian five years bond yield went just below 2% mark. It fell about 15 basis points in just ten days. Not a significant drop but the rate of drop was noticeable. The market was waiting for the Federal Reserve's announcement and then bonds made aRead more →
The US Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke did not want to withdraw stimulus from the market. There were recent speculations that feds may start to tighten the market soon – but that is not happening now – not till end of this year. According the US FederalRead more →
Paying penalty to break a mortgage term is not a pleasant experience. You have probably experienced the pinch once or twice during your homeownership. It is interesting to see how the penalties decide pool types on mortgage backed securities. The NHA mortgage backed securities guide speaks aRead more →


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The day when our farm is reduced in size by half. When corn fields, and bean fields and hay field are no longer ours. A day as a farmer you know might one day come. But you don't really acknowledge it in your heart of hearts until it's there staring you in the face.
We've known of this for a month or better now, been planning for it, but I couldn't find the words to speak about it. Or when I thought I did, emotion got the better of me and I couldn't. In some ways we're lucky – more so than many. We aren't losing the land to foreclosure or fire, flood or drought, hurricane or tornado. It's our own decision and one we are so grateful to God for being able to make. We are giving in to old(er) age and health. And a need to be debt free and a bit more secure than we are right now. We're lucky that at least for the time being we will still have the Burnham Barn and Round House and Woods and some acres around our daughters house. We'll only be selling farm ground. Only farm ground?!?
Only what we see when we stand in our daughters yard and look north, what the sale bill calls "Parcel One" ~
Or when you stand in the yard and look south, at "Parcel Two" ~
When you come out of the woods looking to the east and the Burnham Barn and you see all of this ~
Only farm ground. I think not. It feels more like a death, it's that profound of a loss. You feel like you have failed the land somehow, like you haven't been able to keep it safe and part of the family. You grieve. You really and truly grieve.
Other farmers especially know how you feel. Its been evidenced by the phone calls and visits we've been receiving especially over the past few days as the sale looms closer. "Just wanted to see how you are doing" "Is there anything I can do to help?" "Do you need anything, just let me know. I can be there if you need me to" "How 'ya doing, Doc?" "Do you need me to drop off a pie?" (Yes, as farmers we always associate food with comfort and rightly so!) You can tell by the hugs and the handshakes you get in the grocery store, coffee house and barber shop. Farm friends, and farm family. If you have ever had an attachment to five acres or fifty or five hundred, you understand it.
It has fed our livestock and it has fed us, both physically and spiritually for a long time. Now its time that it do so in a bigger way. And we're thankful for the opportunity.
Like all grief and loss, time will help ease the painful sting. We'll keep our eyes focused on God and the direction He continues to lead us in. We'll work harder and hopefully smarter and more efficiently with what we have left to farm…our wee house and barn and pastures on the west side of the Burnham property. We'll still enjoy the Round House and Woods and our children and grandchildren and beyond, God willing!
But for today – at least for today, if you are reading this, will you remember us in prayer as we say goodbye to this dear friend? Especially for my husband, who knows every single square inch of that dirt, where every stone in the stone pile came from. Especially for him.
And if you're reading this and have a similar story to tell, I would love to hear it if you would like to share. Just drop us an email or leave a comment. I'm not sharing this because I want anyone to feel sorry for us, not at all. We are able to make this choice with a lot of thought, and planning and prayer. And though it may not have been our first choice, if we had been able to do it otherwise, it is still the right one for us at this time of our lives. So no, I don't share looking for sympathy but only to help ease the sadness and help us to look forward from here.
God Bless ~

subset: commoncrawl


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A while ago The Guardian compiled World Bank and United Nations data and created an interactive snapshot of countries' legislation in 5 areas of women's rights: violence, harassment, abortion, property and employment rights, discrimination and equality. Let's take a look at Vietnam:
We fare quite well in terms of property law, abortion rights and employment rights. Our constitution explicitly recognises gender equality before the law.
However, our legislation does not address domestic violence, sexual/physical/emotional/financial abuse of women and sexual harassment in education, work and public places.
Does this surprise you?
For me this is alarming given that women constitute 24% of members of our parliament.
Link: http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/ng-interactive/2014/feb/04/womens-rights-country-by-country-interactive


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The Speech I Can't Give
Wednesday, June 06, 2012 7:13 am Email this article
A good friend of mine who worked at Goddard Space Center suggested I give a lecture there.
I eagerly wrote a speech about many of the themes you have read about here.
After I wrote the speech, I found out that the colloquia at the Center are not just lectures by leaders-in-their-field, but are about leadership itself.
The tone of the speech was to be like a college commencement address.
I didn't fit in.What do I know about leadership? You know how I know I'm not a leader? because if I was a leader, I would look over my shoulder and see a lot of followers. If I was a leader, I would get my books published easily and be invited to give lectures. If I was a leader, the A.S.B.P. would have treated me respectfully. If I was a leader, I would be rich or have the patronage of a rich organization. What is the practical value of freedom of speech if poor people who read and think freely and wisely–so many that I know–have no means of being heard? Silence of the mind, the death of the intellect, is not a quiet affair; it is a daily babble. It is a commencement address.
Articles on the same subject can be found here:
Please feel free to share your comments about this article.
© Copyright 2003-2017 - Michael Anchors, MD, PhD - All Rights Reserved.


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Want to win a free print of any of my photos?? (Yes, past wedding clients, this includes your wedding photos too!).
Just comment on this photo on the Facebook page and tell us which photo is your favorite and why and then you'll be entered to win the print shipped directly to your home! Beautiful Kodak Lustre print up to 20x24 inches - pick your size.
Here are some links to see photos not posted on the Facebook page:
Smugmug Prints
Smugmug Prints


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The Navigator is offering a 10% discount deal for residents of Great Shelford and Little Shelford.
In January 2015, they are offering their special 2 courses for £10 on Monday to Wednesday evenings. And they will also have free delivery for takeaways in Great and Little Shelford.
However, for residents of Great Shelford and Little Shelford, Mark and Ella are offering a special 10% discount off all food orders throughout January on Thursdays, Friday, Saturdays and Sundays.
See The Navigator website here
See the Navigator menu here:
Terms and conditions:
1. 10% discount will be given on meals (eat in only) but not drinks at the Navigator if the following conditions are met.
2. The offer is only available for residents of Great and Little Shelford. Proof of residency (ie driving licence or utility bill) must be presented at the pub on payment of the bill.
3. One proof of residency is needed for each group of four people.
4. The offer is available from January 1st 2015 until January 31 2015.
Home >
Navigator offer for Shelford residents
Subpages (1): Navigator menu


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Are you fed up with your stamina? Then it the time to know about this spartagen xt which is becoming a boom in the market to increase the testosterone level in human body. People must be aware of this drugs which has both the benefits and also the negative side where it may produce some adverse effects in the human body. Being an extraordinary and also a pure natural supplement, it really gives a great effect in the body. But before using this in the daily diet a person must have the awareness to read out the reviews of such medicine. This is because it very much essential to read out all the factors of the spartagen xt and thus it may give a better result. Here some important factors of spartagen xt reviews
When to use and how to use
Creating only the interest to use the spartagen xt is not a remedy to enhance the body health. So start collecting all the reviews and the related article regarding this spartagen xt. It is been clearly mentioned in the drug about the uses and the effects of the medicine. So when a person comes to understand all these factors then it will be a great effort to improve the body health. Thus the questions for when to use and how to use can be answered only when the person reads out the details and the reviews clearly.
Purely natural ingredient
This spartagen xt is said to be a purely natural ingredient and it is not mixed with chemicals and thus the people do not want to worry about this adulteration factors. There are several useful ingredients which are added to this spartagen xt and this makes the level of testosterone increase in the human body. When the level of testosterone increases in the body it gives a good and better result to the person. Hence, being a purely natural supplement to the body the people can take it daily. But it is very much necessary to note down the dosage to take this drug. It is because it may bring some effects in the body. The dosage may vary from person to person and thus this must be noted down properly. Consulting a doctor will be very best before taking it and it will surely be a best supplement to the human body.
There are some disadvantages which are found in this spartagen xt and they are also mentioned in the review. So the people can have the knowledge of this disadvantage also. One main disadvantage is that it is high in cost and because of its cost effectiveness it may be difficult for everyone to buy. It is not found in all the countries and so as this may also become a bad effect for the people who are in need of this drug. Thus there are other side effects also and all must be notes down properly before using this and continuously using such spartagen xt will give a better result than the other supplement found in the market. Hence all the spartagen xt reviews will give a detail description about this and people must have in mind to read these reviews before using it.


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Welcome to Italy
Few countries hold as much romance for travellers as Italy. It boasts a beautiful, diverse landscape, legendary art, succulent cuisine and an epic history of friends, Romans and countrymen. From the arts and culture that have thrived in the streets of Florence since the birth of the Renaissance to the living history that envelops Rome, its breadth of experiences keep travellers entranced time after time. Sit back and enjoy a cappuccino at a roadside café, walk in the footsteps of Julius Caesar, or soak up some sun at the beach on Italy's awe-inspiring coastline.
Historic Rome
Once the centre of the known world, Rome is bursting with historic sites. From the haunting silhouette of a once revered stadium to the imposing dome of the impressive St. Peter's Basilica, travellers will continuously stumble into postcard perfect scenes. Travel up the Spanish Steps, make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, or enjoy a slice of pizza or dollop of gelato while you watch the crowds flood through the ancient Forum.
Artistic Florence
The former home of the Medici family, Florence is revered as the birthplace of the Renaissance and is often considered the most beautiful place in Italy and the epicentre of European art. Don't miss the impressive array of the Uffizi Gallery, which houses Giotto, Rembrandt, da Vinci and more, and make sure to visit Michelangelo's statue of David and ascend the Duomo — the city's most recognizable landmark.
Bohemian Venice
In Venice, with its story book canals and impressive arsenal of artistic masterpieces, you'll find a sense of romance quietly flowing through every lyrical, market-studded corner. Check out the Bohemian-chic street vendors that sell glittering masks beside the city's famous canals and don't miss the impressive St. Mark's Square — a hodgepodge of Greek, Byzantine and Gothic design.
Delicious Tuscany
This area of Italy is known for its patchwork vineyards, undulating hills and picturesque villas. It's a mecca for food and wine aficionados, especially in the Chianti region where the country's famous red wine originates. It's also home to one of Europe's greatest Medieval squares, the Piazza Del Campo in the popular Medieval town of Siena, and to the famous architectural blunder the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Scenic Amalfi
A stretch of scenic coastline on the southern stretch of Italy, the Amalfi Coast is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises Sorrento, Ravello, Salerno and more. In this particularly picturesque area of Italy you'll find pastel homes reaching up the mountainside while boats dock languidly on the sparkling water. It's a popular hub for cruisers and a great place to lounge by the beautiful azure waters.
Italy Travel Guide
Florence: The end of spring is the perfect time to visit Florence, particularly in the month of May, as temperatures level around a pleasant 18°C. Autumn is also pleasant as temperatures begin to drop from the humid summer months.
Venice: Autumn offers visitors superb weather with an average of 16°C in Venice. Spring and summer can remain quite humid, though temperatures tend to stay in the low to mid 20s.
Rome: March to May is the ideal time to visit the Eternal City. Rome's largely Mediterranean climate means that things heat up dramatically in the summer, and winters only cool to about 15°C.
The Amalfi Coast: The best time to visit this area of Italy is April to June and September to October when temperatures are most pleasant, but the beach culture does draw visitors in the steamy summer months.
Tuscany: The best time to visit Tuscany depends on what you wish to do. Summer is a great time to visit the beaches but the hot, humid temperatures can be unpleasant in the hills and cities. October is a great time to visit when its cool and uncrowded.
If you plan on renting a car during your stay you'll need to acquire an international driving permit (IDP) through CAA. Your Canadian drivers license is also required.
There is a toll to use most of Italy's autstrada's which is payable with cash or credit card, and prepaid cards are a good way to avoid time consuming lines.
Large ferries called Navi service Sicily and Sardini while hydrofoils service smaller islands.
There are underground transportation systems in Rome, Milan and Naples, and the new and partially operational MetroTorino in Turin. Make sure to validate tickets before entering the train to avoid fees of up to €50.
Most towns have comprehensive city and intercity bus systems but services on Sundays are sparse.
Spoken Languages
In addition to Italian you can find French spoken (mainly in the Aosta Valley) as well as German (mainly in Trentino Alto Adige)
Tourist Attractions
Many cities sell tourist cards that will package main attractions like museums and cathedrals for a fraction of the price.
Canadian passport holders are free to visit the country for up to 90 days without a visa.
- The main currency is the € Euro
- Most credit cards are accepted but may need to be accompanied by an ID
220 volts AC (50Hz)


text: Perhaps the most well known art forms on the African continent are masks and performances. Practiced by many cultures, masking encourages discussions about secrecy, knowledge, and entertainment. Masking in Africa is about revealing and giving shape to spirits, ancestors, and forces that otherwise cannot be seen. The Wè, which encompasses several ethnic groups that live in Liberia and Cote d'Ivoire, have a diverse masking tradition that is visually similar to the neighboring Dan group. The Von Gla mask gives form to a bush spirit and incorporates wild boar tusks, bullet casings, and a mane of aluminum and wood faux leopard teeth to create a mask of actual and figurative power objects. The bold colors and protruding tubular eyes bring to life a dangerous and wild character from the spirit realm that can enter the human space of the town or village. These masks serve a judicial function but their aggressive appearance also repels negative energies.


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Liquid XML Studio 2010 SP1 126.96.36.19943
Program İndir CenqoOo | 4 Kasım 2010 - 02:00:03 | 0
Liquid XML Studio 2010 SP1 188.8.131.5243 | 41.03 MB
Liquid XML Studio is a comprehensive XML Development enviroment, comprising a set of editors and XML tools designed for developing XML solutions. The following provides an overview of the core tools.
XML Schema Editor
A graphical XSD editor, allowing you to visualize and edit your schemas. The editor provides an abstracted view of the XSD making it simple to understand your data. Context sensitive properties make using the more advanced features of the XSD standard simple, while drag and drop, cut & paste, and multi step undo functionality makes editing your schema simple and intuitive.
XML Data Binding Code Generator
'XML Data Binding' involves the creation of a class library from an XML schema (XSD). Liquid XML Data Binder uses its code generator engine to generate a class libraries specifically for use with your XML data allowing XML documents to be manipulated programmatically, in a simple, intuitive way. This allows you to deal with strongly typed, named, properties and classes instead of generic XML nodes, reducing the amount of coding needed, increasing productivity and reliability, and reducing development costs.
Liquid XML Data Binder is the most comprehensive XML Data Binding Code Generator tool available. With Support for all major development languages, hardware environments, and schema standards.
Using Liquid XML within your software development project will radically simplify your interaction with XML documents, increasing reliability, reducing development time, and testing effort. Simply put it bridges the gap between your development language (C , C#, Java, VB6, Vb.Net) and XML. Once you try it you'll never go back to a basic DOM or SAX parser.
WSDL Editor
The WSDL editor abstracts much of the complexity of the WSDL standard, presenting the structure of the WSDL without showing the unnecessary complexity. This provides a view that makes understanding and editing the your WSDL document simple. Access to the full range of related facets is availible via the properties window and the WSDL can be edited directly within the Source view.
XML Editor
A graphical XML Editor to allow intuitive editing of xml data in a tree and tabular grid. Syntax highlighted XML Editor, providing validation against the XML standard or an XSD schema. Auto complete, and intellisense are based on an external XML Schema. XSD Schemas can also be inferred from an existing XML document.
Microsoft Visual Studio Integration (2005, 2008, 2010)
Provides seamless integration of Liquid XML Studio within Microsoft Visual Studio 2005, 2008, 2010. Integrated features include:
Graphical XML Schema (XSD)Editor
XPath Expression Builder
Web Service Browser Web Method Invocation
Infer XSD From XML
Generate Sample XML From XSD
Generate HTML Docs From XSD
Web Service Test Client
Makes it simple to explore the functions exposed by a web service. Individual web methods can then be called though the UI, which will automatically generate the XML required for the chosen method.
XPath Expression Builder
Highlights the results of your XPath query in real time against any XML document. Intellisense XPath expression builder. Code samples are provided for mainstream languages (C#, java etc).
HTML Documentation Generation
Generate HTML documentation from an XML Schema. The documentation contains indexes, search, diagrams (hot spots to link to child entities), XSD source code, textual description of its properties, all within collapsible sections so irrelevant information can be easily ignored. The documentation can be generated as HTML pages or as an ASP.Net source.
The documentation templates can be modified making it possible to customize the output. See Sample Site.
XSLT Editor & Debugger
Liquid XML Studio includes a powerful XSLT Debugger that makes it possible to step through an XSLT stylesheet. The XSLT engines available are the Saxon HE engine and the Microsoft .Net XSLT engine. Using the debugger it is possible to set breakpoints within the XSLT source. When the execution gets to these break points the execution is paused and the environment can be examined. The call stack, local variables and current context are shown when the debugger is paused. It is also possible to set up watch expressions.
The XSLT editor also supports intellisense, validation, auto complete, outlining (code folding) and may other features making it quicker and easier to author XSLT stylesheets.
XQuery Editor & Debugger
Liquid XML Studio includes a powerful XQuery Debugger that makes it possible to step through an XQuery module or library fie. Using the debugger it is possible to set breakpoints within the XQuery source. When the execution gets to these break points the, its paused and the environment can be examined. The call stack, local variables and current context are shown when the debugger is paused. It is also possible to set up watch expressions.
The XQuery editor also supports intellisense, validation, auto complete and may other features making it quicker and easier to author XQuery expressions.
Large File Editor
The Liquid Large file editor makes it possible to open and edit extremely large file (> 4GB). Files are opened instantly regardless of the size, and the memory footprint for the application is tiny. Changes to the document are also instant, so no delays while you type. The editor also supports extremely long lines, so unformatted XML files are no problems. This is a great tool for examining and correcting huge files, data feeds, log files etc.
XML Diff - Compare XML Files
XmlDiff is Liquid Technologies XML differencing tool, enabling users to quickly compare 2 XML files.
A host of XML aware options allow you to filter out the changes that are not of interest (i.e. whitespace, comments, processor directives etc).
Key Features
Includes all the Designer Edition Features Plus
XML Code Generator / Data Binding
Cross platform C
Silverlight 2.0 (C# 2008 & VB .Net 2008)
VB.Net 2003, 2005, 2008, 2010
Visual Basic 6.0
Royalty Free distribution of your compiled code & the Liquid Runtime*
Fast Infoset Support in C , C# and VB .Net
HTML Documentation Generation for the Generated Code Library
Projects can be saved
Full support for XML Schemas with include/imports
Branding can be turned off
More Features
Fully featured Graphical XML Schema (XSD) Editor
Fully featured Graphical XML Editor
Fully featured Graphical WSDL Editor
Integrates with Microsoft® Visual Studio® 2005, 2008 & 2010, adding a Graphical XSD Editor, Web Service Test Client and XPath Expression Builder to the Visual Studio® environment
XML/WSDL/XSD/DTD/CSS Editors
Web Service Test Client
XPath Expression Builder
XSLT Editor
XML Differencing Tool
XSD Document Generation
Visual Schema Agent - visualises the structure of inter dependent XSD files
Liquid XML Studio 2010 SP1 18.104.22.16843 programının en son versiyonunu ve Liquid XML Studio 2010 SP1 188.8.131.5243 programına ait crack, serial, pachları bulabilirsiniz. Bunun yanı sıra Liquid XML Studio 2010 SP1 188.8.131.5243 ait altyazı veya türkçe dublaj içerikleri, mp4 formatında ya da DVDRip halinde çekilmiş görüntülerini bulabilirsiniz. Liquid XML Studio 2010 SP1 188.8.131.5243 tam sürümdür ve sorunsuzca kurulabilmektedir. Dilerseniz Liquid XML Studio 2010 SP1 220.127.116.1143 türkçe yama (pach) ile türkçe olarakta kullanabilirsiniz. Hepsi bir yana Liquid XML Studio 2010 SP1 220.127.116.1143'i hotfile, rapidshare, filesonic, uploading, fileserve, uploadstation, netload vb birçok download sitesine ait download linklerini bulabilirsiniz.
Hiç yazılmış yorum bulunmamaktadır.


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Pauline Kapoun Anterior Approach THR with Dr. Boese 2015
Read Article Here Council Bluffs, IA 08/26/2015 – Pauline Kapoun, 60, had put off hip replacement surgery for years until the pain made walking and daily activities difficult. That was when she decided to see Dr. C. Kent Boese, an orthopedic surgeon with Miller Orthopedic Specialists, who performs a less invasive surgical technique for hip replacement called the Anterior Approach. This procedure helped Pauline, and other patients, recover sooner with less pain and fewer restrictions than traditional hip replacement surgery.… Read the Rest


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the italo, hi-nrg nd dance station of the 80s - 24/7 on Internet !!!
Radioline gives to users access to more than 60.000 News, Sports, Talk, Music radio stations and podcasts worldwide. The user can easily find and listen to his favorite radio stations, and discover new ones according to his mood, location, musical taste and more!


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Personal Contract Hire at Lipscomb provides hassle free motoring - you benefit from low initial outlay, regular rentals and no worry about disposing of your car at the end of the contract. You can also include a full maintenance package within the monthly rental. This covers regular servicing costs as well as the cost of wear and tear to things like brakes and tyres.
How It Works:
Simply choose the car you wish to drive, agree your annual mileage and decide your hire period of between 24 and 60 months.
Choose whether to include a full maintenance package within the monthly rental.
Your rental is calculated based on your choices.
At the end of your term, simply return the car to us (within the agreed mileage and in good condition), choose your next car and start again.
For further information on Alfa Romeo finance please contact a member of our sales team in Maidstone or use our contact form above.


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Plasmodium Falciparum is one of four malaria parasites that can affect people and by far one of the most dangerous and is therefore the most likely to lead to fatalities. This parasite is responsible for most cases of malaria in humans, which is why so much emphasis is placed on malaria prophylaxis before you travel.
Other than Plasmodium falciparum, people can also be affected by Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium malariae. Plasmodium malariae is least likely to cause a serious malaria infection and is quite rare, while Plasmodium ovale is similarly rare and 'mild' but can stay in the liver for years without causing any symptoms to a carrier. Plasmodium vivax is slightly more serious than the aforementioned two parasites, but not as likely to lead to complications as Plasmodium falciparum. Plasmodium vivax can stay in the liver for many years, leading to a possible relapse years later.
Plasmodium falciparum can cause symptoms to develop quite rapidly after infection, in some cases in as little as eight days. Complications are also likely to follow the first symptoms relatively quickly, which is why treatment within the first 24 hours is incredibly important.
Once the plasmodium parasite is in the blood, it travels to the liver, where it waits to mature. In the case for the falciparum parasite, this happens quite quickly. As soon as it's ready, the parasite starts taking over red blood cells, eventually causing them to burst, leading to a malaria attack, which can be uncomfortable and extremely dangerous.
At first symptoms of a plasmodium falciparum infection might be no different from flu symptoms and they'd normally start around seven to eight days after the transmission of the parasite has occurred. However, symptoms could potentially be delayed if you have used antimalarial treatments on your trip.
These symptoms may then worsen, leading to a malaria attack, which is when the plasmodium parasite has started to cause red blood cells to burst. This attack could be signified by a fever higher than 38% that can fluctuate over the course of a couple of hours, headaches, influenza, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting. In the case of plasmodium falciparum, this attack could lead to further complications.
Plasmodium falciparum could cause cerebral malaria, anaemia, pulmonary oedema and kidney problems. Cerebral malaria is extremely rare, but it can happen when the parasite within red blood cells causes them to stick together, resulting in obstruction of blood vessels to the brain, starving the brain of oxygen, leading to swelling on the brain.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a plasmodium falciparum infection, you need to go to a doctor as soon possible in order to get diagnosed. Although a doctor can generally relate from your symptoms or travel destination that you possibly may have an infection, they'll have to conduct a blood test to ensure that the correct treatment is used and all other possibilities are ruled out.


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So...I got fabric and pillows on my brain and I need some input. Below is what we have going on in the bedroom right now.
1. Wall Paint: Poetic Princess (very light icy lavender) from Ace Hardware 2. Bed: Upholstered bed from Ikea in a charcoal (similar to the Floro model, but not really!) 3. Bedding: duvet cover from Ikea in a very light gray 4. Trim work: basic white 5. Ceiling: soft white. Hardware is in stainless.
Any ideas for the question marks? I need some advice for fabric additions with print (maybe some ikat?) and should I stick with shades of gray or add an accent color.
Here's an old post with a good idea of what the space is like (hello angled ceilings). You can also see another bench at the end of the bed that still needs to be covered too. I have some Amy Butler fabric for it, but am willing to change it.
Thanks guys! Hugs and Kisses.


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Fruitcake seeks frosting
18th May 2017 - 15:11 | London UK, Middlesex | Age 32
Where to start? Well like most people my age I'm 32
Three interesting facts about me:
* I once climbed mount Everest carrying a bath tub on my back and wearing nothing but a mankini (sexy)
I recorded a single that got to Number 3 in 17 countries around the world.
* I have a tendency to lie when under pressure
In reality; I'm a charming and outgoing gentleman from sunny London. I enjoy making up nicknames for people I don't know but see all the time, eating food I've never heard of and I will always go out of my way to step on 2 drains for good luck.
I currently work and am seriously underpaid for my talents. Hoping to become a star studded actor, but still waiting for Scorses to call me.
I'm looking for a fun, interesting and intelligent woman. A good sense of humour is a must and if she owns a Lamborghini it would be a bonus, but it's not a deal breaker.
I would love to continue chatting, but I'd much rather do it over a drink, and I'm probably scaring you off.
I look forward to hearing from you soon
PS well done for making it this far. A choice of a Blue Peter badge or cookie will be sent to you once I begin my charm offensive.
Ad No: 74109 | Views: 487 | Replies: 17 | Report Abuse


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R&E Council of NAPL Names John Humrich Pressroom Operations Manager of the Year
Friday, June 15, 2007
Press release from the issuing company
PARAMUS, NJ, JUNE 14, 2007 – John Humrich, Vice President of Operations of Monroe Litho, Rochester, NY, has been named the 2007 Pressroom Operations Manager of the Year by the Research & Engineering Council of NAPL. The annual award, established in 2002, recognizes excellence in pressroom production management. The award will be presented to Humrich at the R&E Council of NAPL Applied Technology Conference (June 20-22 in Atlanta, GA).
Industry News
Copyright © 2019 WhatTheyThink. All Rights Reserved


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When putting Lightning 5.4 on a server, every time it refreshes the entries are duplicated - refresh 3 times and you get 3 entries. Set refresh to manual, but the same thing occurs when restarting TB.
EDIT: Should have said that they are duplicated in the Events List, but if you duplicate any one of the duplicates, it deletes all.


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Obama Wants Your Guns!!!
Posted by The Wild Zimarik in Education, General, Government, Guns, Politics, Speaking Out, We The People
On Wednesday the Obama administration took its first major step in a plan to ban all firearms in the United States . The Obama administration intends to force gun control and a complete ban on all weapons for US citizens through the signing of international treaties with foreign nations. By signing international treaties on gun control, the Obama administration can use the US State Department to bypass the normal legislative process in Congress. Once the US Government signs these international treaties, all US citizens will be subject to those gun laws created by foreign governments. These are laws that have been developed and promoted by organizations such as the United Nations and individuals such as George Soros and Michael Bloomberg. The laws are designed and intended to lead to the complete ban and confiscation of all firearms. The Obama administration is attempting to use tactics and methods of gun control that will inflict major damage to our 2nd Amendment before US citizens even understand what has happened. Obama can appear before the public and tell them that he does not intend to pursue any legislation (in the United States) that will lead to new gun control laws, while cloaked in secrecy, his Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton is committing the US to international treaties and foreign gun control laws. Does that mean Obama is telling the truth? What it means is that there will be no publicized gun control debates in the media or votes in Congress. We will wake up one morning and find that the United States has signed a treaty that prohibits firearm and ammunition manufacturers from selling to the public. We will wake up another morning and find that the US has signed a treaty that prohibits any transfer of firearm ownership. And then, we will wake up yet another morning and find that the US has signed a treaty that requires US citizens to deliver any firearm they own to the local government collection and destruction center or face imprisonment. This has happened in other countries, past and present!


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In Torrey, Utah at an art gallery I bought a framed photograph/media of this slot canyon. The photographer told me the location where he took the picture. This is the place where it was taken In Long Canyon. Actually this … Continue reading
Monthly Archives: September 2014
Out running the rain after 8% dive from Bryce. I was waiting at a great little coffee shop drinking a double espresso … Continue reading
Rain in Bryce Canyon. We didn't get to do much as the rain, wind and fog moved in. But still a good visit. … Continue reading
Rain today. This is Harolds Place with great little cabins and restaurant about 12 miles west of Bryce and at the start of Utah 12 scenic highway. Harpo standing there. … Continue reading
Good day in Zion. The flag flying stiffly in front of the Mt Carmel motel. It is blowing the right direction for riding to Harold's Place. Good clean little motel and by anyone's standard cheap. … Continue reading
On a hike. At the west entrance to Zion there is great overlook we hiked to to look into Zion. Oren, our tour guide knew about all these great little hikes. … Continue reading
On the trail. This is a shot of Harpo on the Zion overlook trail. … Continue reading
See Oren and Harpo? This is a picture of where Interstate 70 cuts through the San Rafael Reef / Swell. … Continue reading
Morning hike goal Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. I found it fairly strenuous 3 mile hike up and back as I had not walked that kind of terrain or distance for two to three years due to foot problems. It … Continue reading
Dead Horse State Park. I had an extra day before meeting up with the others and one of the places I went was Dead Horse Point which had this view. … Continue reading


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Our Conference & Events team are so proud to announce that on Friday night our Bognor Regis resort won the C&IT Award for Best UK Conference Venue!
Conference and Incentive Travel is the UK's leading dedicated magazine for the event industry and their 'Conference & Incentive Travel Excellence Awards' recognise and celebrate companies applying best practice to the creation, planning, production and management of innovative and successful events.
We're absolutely delighted to have been awarded this title as it recognises the hard work the whole team put in to deliver successful events for our clients.
C&IT Magazine
"In this highly competitive category, Butlin's Bognor Regis impressed the judges with its flexible approach to each client brief and for implementing a range of creative ideas to enhance its offering."
The Times, Business Section
"Banks, retailers and major businesses are flocking to the Butlin's resort, which won the coveted award for best conference venue in the UK..."
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I've not written any posts on this blog or elsewhere online in a while because I was busy with the dissertation phase of my masters degree. I learnt a lot over the past year, especially from working on my final project. I am thankful for successfully completing the course.
BarCamp Ho 2014 is upon us; this is Volta region's fourth barcamp since the first event in 2011. Find details about this year's event in the flyer below.
We're dedicating this year's barcamp to the memory of Eli Aidam, our colleague from GhanaThink who tragically passed on earlier this year.
|Eli Aidam: Youth leader- GhanaThink, CCY, etc [Credit: Elvis Bomassah]
Eli, Eric Nii Tackie Tawiah, Bless Nkegbe and myself held the initial meeting at the Ghana Tourist Board Office [Eric's workplace] in October 2011, to plan the first BarCamp Ho. Back then, I quietly admired Eli's pragmatism, resourcefulness, and extensive networking skills. Eli then moved on to become the 'engine' of the Ho barcamps in later years. He was a true connector, and this came to bear in his work with Centre for Creative Youth, a youth-led initiative focused on nurturing the creative talent of the youth for social change. When Ghana Decides was looking for partners for youth engagement, and later social media training, towards the 2012 elections, Eli was instrumental in bringing CCY on board. We remember Eli for his dreams, hard work, and selflessness, But, perhaps more importantly, we would remember him for being our friend.
So join us at the University of Health and Allied Sciences this Saturday 25th October to map out creative ways of personal development to aid youth to function in an increasingly entrepreneurial world, while we remember a dear colleague who exemplified that philosophy.


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Well its been awhile since I painted any US units for Vietnam. I was a bit worried about matching the paint jobs on my previous efforts. My magic wash tub had dried out and GW has stopped selling the flesh colour that I had used. I think the finished figures are a little darker than the earlier figures but match well enough to game with.
Rambo was painted before I started wearing reading glasses to paint with and I was never happy with him. I repainted the flesh while I was doing the other figures and like him now. These figures are still done to a basic finish as I don't really think that I have time to do an expert job on them which they don't really need.
This is the complete Mortar Platoon with the previously done bases. Luckily I can tell the separate sections apart as one has an African American crew, one has a white crew and the last has a 50/50 mix. (I of course have listed them in reverse order just to be difficult). The Platoon Big Man is on a slightly larger base with some extras.


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Congratulations to DDFlores for being the winner of the rolled canvas print!
We sure do and one of my favorite pieces is a large framed photo canvas print of our family that was taken by a local photographer. This print looks amazing because it is a photographic piece of art! The stretched canvas gives it a museum quality look which is great for hanging on the wall all by itself. No frame needed!
OnlinePosterPrinting.com is giving one Tech Savvy Mama reader the chance to win a 16×20 Rolled Canvas Print worth $50.
To enter, browse the products on OnlinePosterPrinting.com and leave a comment letting me know which one of the photo printing products you might be likely to order in the future. Be sure to include your e-mail or Twitter handle so I can contact you when you win!
Fine print: You must be at least 18 years old to enter and this contest is only open to US residents only. Winner will be selected in approximately 2 weeks.
No monetary compensation was received for this post. I am offering this giveaway as part of Giveaway Blogs and will receive my own canvas print for hosting this giveaway.


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Back to TOEFL Essay Sample Page
to the TOEFL Home Page
to the TOEFL Essay Home Page
Remember: All essays are reproduced here as they were
Note: This is a great
essay, but it does not address the topic directly--it talks about why
games are important, not about why games are important for adults.
Game is played between two or more teams (depending on the nature of
the game) and one team emerges as a winner at the end of the game. The
team with best skill set wins the game. The team members have to put a lot
of efforts to hone in the required skills for winning the game. This is an
important lesson of our life. To succeed in activity or career, one has to
persistently put a lot of efforts. We need to word hard to attain our
goals in life.
When we play games, we might end up on a winning or losing side. We
should stay calm and poised, no matter what the result of the game be. The
fun of game should not associated with winning or losing a game.
Similarly, we go through ups and downs in our daily life. We should
neither feel disturbed when our life shows the darken side, nor feel
overjoyed in success, but should stay focused on duties and
We should follow certain rules when we play games. It is illegal to
break the rules and we get penalised when we do so. We need to be a
disciplined follower of rules in order to win a game. Similarly, in our
life, we need to follow the legal, social and ethical rules and any
distraction or deviation from them may cost us dear. Thus, playing games
makes us a better disciplined personality in our life.
From the above discussions, it is cleared that playing game teaches us
about life and it is essential for all ages of people not only for adult


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By Dr. Mercola
About 75 percent of California residents have flame-retardant chemicals in their bodies, according to a late 2014 study.1 Many of them had no less than six different kinds, including one (chlorinated tris, or TDCIPP) that was phased out of children's pajamas in the 1970s.
Also surprising was the discovery of tris-(2-chloroethyl) phosphate, or TCEP, which has never been detected in Americans before. TCEP is a known carcinogen and damages your nervous and reproductive systems.
The study highlighted an important finding, which was that those with the highest levels lived in homes with the highest levels in household dust. This means that flame-retardant chemicals lurking in your home – in your mattress and your couch cushions, for instance – are a primary source of exposure… but it's not the only one.
Flame Retardants Found in Swimming Pools
It's known that highly toxic disinfection byproducts (DBPs) form from reactions between pool disinfectants and organic matter, including hair, skin, sweat, dirt, urine and more.
Researchers from Purdue University wondered whether similar reactions occurred between disinfectants like chlorine and other chemicals in the water, such as those from personal care products.
To find out, they first needed to find out what kinds of chemicals are in the water. So they tested water from three indoor swimming pools in the US – two public pools used mostly by college students and one pool located inside a high school. They found 32 different chemicals in the water.2 Of them, three were most common:
- TCEP, the carcinogenic flame retardant that's found in 75 percent of Californians (and probably is equally prevalent in other Americans)
- Caffeine
- DEET, an active ingredient in insect repellants
It's unclear just how much flame-retardant and other chemical exposures may be coming from swimming pools, but it deserves a closer look, especially if you spend a lot of time swimming in pools. The study's lead author noted:3
"Swimmers are exposed to chemicals through three different routes: You can inhale, you can ingest and it can go through your skin. So the exposure you receive in a swimming pool setting is potentially much more extensive than the exposure you would receive by just one route alone."
It was also unclear just how the flame retardant TCEP was being introduced to the pool water, although the researchers noted other chemicals, like caffeine, were likely introduced by human excretions (sweat and urine).
If 75 percent of Americans excrete flame retardants in their urine, then perhaps that is responsible for the levels found in pools as well. It's also possible flame-retardant chemicals contaminate the water before anyone gets in. As the National Resources Defense Council explained:4
"During manufacturing, use and disposal, these [flame retardant] chemicals are released into the environment where they can be found in air, water, and wildlife. They are carried on air currents as far away as the Arctic where they pollute native human populations, marine mammals, and even polar bears."
Should You Avoid Swimming Pools?
Most public pools are overloaded with chlorine, as the well-intentioned people who maintain public pools overly shock them with chlorine to make sure bacteria and other organisms get snuffed out quickly.
But even the swimming pool in your backyard could be toxic if you treat it with chlorine – even if you're relatively confident there aren't other chemicals (like DEET) in the water.
Any organic matter – including hair, skin, sweat, and dirt – can react with chlorine to create DBPs. It's known that trihalomethanes (THMs), one of the most common DBPs, are Cancer Group B carcinogens, meaning they've been shown to cause cancer in laboratory animals.
They've also been linked to reproductive problems in both animals and humans, such as spontaneous abortion, stillbirths, and congenital malformations, even at lower levels.
People who frequent swimming pools have an increased risk of bladder cancer compared to those who do not,5 and DBPs have even been suggested as partially responsible for the increased risk of melanoma cancer among swimmers.6
According to one study published in the Journal of Environmental Sciences,7 the cancer risk of DBPs (in this case THMs) from various routes in descending order was:
- Skin exposure while swimming
- Gastro-intestinal exposure from tap water intake
- Skin exposure to tap water
- Gastro-intestinal exposure while swimming
The cancer risk from skin exposure while swimming comprised over 94 percent of the total cancer risk resulting from being exposed to THMs! The authors even went so far as to conclude that swimming in a chlorinated pool presents "an unacceptable cancer risk."
Can Swimming Pools Be Made Safer?
One of the best solutions is NOT to chlorinate your pool and just use a maintenance "shock" treatment every five or six days, which will kill the algae buildup. The shock treatment volatilizes in about 24-48 hours and gives you a several-day window in which you can safely use your pool.
You can also reduce the amount of organic material you bring into the pool, and thereby the amount of DBPs created, by showering prior to entering and teaching your children not to urinate in the water.
This will be difficult if you're visiting a public swimming pool or waterpark, however, since many people do not shower prior to entering, and you can't control what other types of chemicals (from personal care products, sunscreens, insect repellants and, yes, urine) might be in the water.
Swimming in an ocean is an excellent alternative, as is swimming in a lake or other natural unpolluted body of water. Although, even these are, sadly, mostly contaminated.
Flame Retardants, Plastic Ubiquitous in the World's Oceans
A new study published in PLOS One found there are more than 5 trillion plastic pieces weighing over 250,000 tons in the world's oceans.8 The data came from 24 expeditions involving surface net tows and visual spotting of large plastic debris.
There was actually less plastic found floating on the water than expected, but that's because the researchers believe the plastic is broken down quickly. It either sinks and gets caught in deeper water currents or it's eaten by marine animals, including barnacles, zooplankton, fish, birds, and whales. Said the study's lead author:9
"Plastic in the ocean is basically a hazardous waste, as it absorbs this plethora of persistent chemical wastes and… delivers these toxins to these animals that unknowingly ingest them."
Chief among those chemical wastes are, you guessed it, flame retardants, which past studies have shown are persistent ocean pollutants. Research from the University of California-Davis has revealed that when fish eat plastic contaminated with flame retardants they show signs of endocrine disruption, tumor formation and malformed gonads.10
As Newsweek reported:11 "It stands to reason this is also happening in the wild, and that plastics may serve as a vector to transfer pollutants into fish, and then perhaps the humans who eat these fish…"
Reducing Flame Retardants in Your Home Is a Good Place to Start…
Flame-retardant chemicals have been linked to serious health risks, including infertility, birth defects, neurodevelopmental delays, reduced IQ scores and behavioral problems in children, hormone disruptions, and various forms of cancer. If you want to reduce your exposure, it's wise to start in the place where you spend the most time – your home (not the swimming pool). Tips you can use to reduce your exposure around your home include:12
- Be especially careful with polyurethane foam products manufactured prior to 2005, such as upholstered furniture, mattresses, and pillows, as these are most likely to contain flame-retardant chemicals called polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). If you have any of these in your home, inspect them carefully and replace ripped covers and/or any foam that appears to be breaking down. Also, avoid reupholstering furniture by yourself, as the reupholstering process increases your risk of exposure.
- Older carpet padding is another major source of PBDEs, so take precautions when removing old carpet. You'll want to isolate your work area from the rest of your house to avoid spreading it around, and use a HEPA filter vacuum to clean up.
- You probably also have older sources of the PBDEs known as Deca in your home, and these are so toxic they are banned in several states. Deca PBDEs can be found in electronics like TVs, cell phones, kitchen appliances, fans, toner cartridges, and more. It's a good idea to wash your hands after handling such items, especially before eating, and at the very least be sure you don't let infants mouth any of these items (like your TV remote control or cell phone).
- As you replace PBDE-containing items around your home, select those that contain naturally less flammable materials, such as leather, wool, and cotton.
- Look for organic and "green" building materials, carpeting, baby items, mattresses, and upholstery, which will be free from these toxic chemicals and help reduce your overall exposure. Furniture products filled with cotton, wool, or polyester tend to be safer than chemical-treated foam; some products also state that they are "flame-retardant free."
- PBDEs are often found in household dust, so clean up with a HEPA-filter vacuum and/or a wet mop often.
- If you want to avoid flame retardants in your mattress, you can have a licensed health care provider write you a prescription for a toxin-free mattress, which can then be ordered without flame retardants from certain resellers. You can also find certain natural mattresses on the market that don't contain them. For instance, most wool mattresses do not have flame-retardant chemicals added because wool is a natural flame retardant.


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Don't miss your change to join our Sep 13 Workshop (re-launch)~
For more details, please contact HK Memory Chest.
Instructor: Crystal Tang
I am a lifelong artist and crafter. I grew up in a home full of arts and crafts supplies with creative. Since 2006, I know more about stamping, cardmaking and Scrapbooking. I love all types of crafts but find my true crafting passion in papercrafts, scrapbooking, cardmaking and mixed media. I love to combine elements of into my projects – special creating gifts for the friends.I have been fortunate to be the instructor for some craft shops and scrapbooking stores shops in Hong Kong.


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How do you count words? Ashley Wagner discusses the question as part of our video on the number of words in the English language.
Definición de ampulosidad en Español:
nombre femenino
- 1
Exceso de artificios o falta de sencillez o naturalidad.
le molestó la ampulosidad de los gestos del pianista
Further reading
'Compliment' or 'complement': what's the difference?Read more
A lot of people get compliment and complement confused: they're pronounced in the same way and have very similar spellings but they have completely different meanings.
Should you capitalize the word "Internet"?Read more
The question of whether the word internet should be capitalized is so passionately debated and rife with controversy that it has its own Wikipedia article.
14 ways to hugFind out more
We've delved into the Historical Thesaurus of the Oxford English Dictionary to come up with some historical substitutions for hug as a verb.


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Conexant HSF modem drivers
The following modems, available in some ThinkPad models, use the Conexant HSF softmodem chip, and require an appropriate driver:
- ThinkPad 56K Modem (MDC-1.5)
- IBM Integrated 56K Modem (MDC-2)
- ThinkPad Modem (MDC-3.0, 56kbps HDA)
- IBM Integrated Bluetooth III with 56K Modem (BMDC-2)
- IBM Integrated Bluetooth IV with 56K Modem (BMDC-3)
Two drivers are currently available.
The Smartlink slmodem driver
The Linux driver from SmartLink, may support the BMDC-2 device assuming your ThinkPad does not have a newer Intel ICH6 controller (e.g. ThinkPad R52 or T43).
Latest version of this driver is 2.9.11.
The ALSA AC'97 modem driver (snd_intel8x0m) should be used instead of the proprietary kernel module from SmartLink (see README ALSA mode), as it avoids tainting your kernel, and does not require a recompile each time you update your kernel version.
For Debian there is a sl-modem-daemon deb.
There is a slmodem rpm in the RPM-Fusion nonfree repository. Once you have installed the package, you need to edit /etc/sysconfig/slmodem and set INTERFACE=alsa and ALSA_DEVICE=modem:1
cat /proc/asound/cards and use the number before the Modem line
In addition you can set the country for the correct recognition of dialling and busy tones, and to adhere to any local (possibly legal) requirements. If you do not set the country, it will default to USA.
You can then start the service, and set it to autostart on boot
service slmodem start chkconfig slmodem on
After this you should have a /dev/ttySL0 device
The Linuxant hsf driver
The commercial Conexant HSF driver from Linuxant supports these modem and work also on ICH6 models (e.g., ThinkPad R52, R51, T43, and Z60m).
It offers free limited evaluation at 14.4kbps, and the full version costs $19.99. The license is tied to the specific CDC modem daughter card, so if you replace your modem card you will need to buy a new license.
Download: http://www.linuxant.com/drivers/hsf/full/downloads.php
- For Ubuntu, Dell released an OEM version of the linux driver (with 56K and fax support). You can download it here. Newer versions for i386 and x86_64 packaged in .tar.gz, .deb and .rpm can be found here
This driver works well with reliable connections. It does not support voice or telephony features.
2010 Jan 04: I've found new driver with full speed support. Everyone can find it by hsfmodem-7.80.02.03full-dellhybrid.tar.bz2 keyword. Then unpack source and read INSTALL.
- Fedora Core: use the provided RPMs. If using a custom kernel, choose the "Generic packages with source" in the HSF downloads page.
- Debian: run
# dpkg -i hsfblablabla.deb. When asked you for the code, enter "FREE" for the 14.4kbps evaluation.
- Sidux: How to install ThinkPad Modem (MDC-3.0, 56kbps HDA) under sidux 2008-03 (Ουρέα)
- Gentoo: the hsfmodem package is in portage.
If you are running a 2.6.15.* kernel, you might consider running:
# hsfconfig --patch
first, and apply the appropriate patch (there is an issue with hsfmodem and 2.6.15 tree that results in kernel oops. The patch provided by Conexant fixes that). It looks like this command has to be run in console (rather than e.g. xterm, as the menu issues some escape sequences that garble the output in xterm)
The hsfmodem driver may prevent your machine from going into suspend. If so, you may remove them prior to sleep by adding to your suspend script:
modprobe -r hsfmc97ich hsfserial hsfengine hsfosspec hsfsoar
The drivers should be automatically re-loaded upon resume by the hotplug system, if not, just manually restart hotplug or modprobe the individual drivers, adding this to your suspend script if needed.
If you use the hibernate script on Fedora Core, simple add this to /etc/hibernate/hibernate.conf:
OnSuspend 12 service hsf stop OnResume 12 service hsf start
Problem with Software Suspend 2
Version 7.47.00.01 works fine with Software Suspend 2.
The version 7.43.00.01 of the HSF driver conflicted with Software Suspend 2. The needed patch isn't available from Linuxant anymore.
For Fedora systems, the procedure for generating and installing a patched RPM is as follows:
- Download tarball and patches:
# wget http://www.linuxant.com/driSoftware Suspend 2vers/hsf/full/archive/hsfmodem-7.43.00.01full/hsfmodem-7.43.00.01full.tar.gz
# wget http://www.linuxant.com/drivers/hsf/full/archive/patches/hsf-7.43.00.01-suspend2.patch
# wget http://www.linuxant.com/drivers/hsf/full/archive/patches/hsf-7.43.00.01-try_to_freeze-2.patch
- Build the RPM:
# mkdir hsf-workdir
# cd hsf-workdir
# tar xzvf ../hsfmodem-7.43.00.01full.tar.gz
# cd hsfmodem-7.43.00.01full
# patch -i ../../hsf-7.43.00.01-suspend2.patch -p1
# patch -i ../../hsf-7.43.00.01-try_to_freeze-2.patch -p1
# cd ..
# tar czvf hsfmodem-7.43.00.01full.tar.gz hsfmodem-7.43.00.01full
# rpmbuild -ta hsfmodem-7.43.00.01full.tar.gz
- Install the RPM:
# rpm -e hsfmodem
# rpm -Uvh /usr/src/redhat/RPMS/i386/hsfmodem-7.43.00.01full-1.i386.rpm


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KINGSTON — Nancy Cooper Wight, 86, died Tuesday, April 22, 2008, at Langdon Place, Exeter.
KINGSTON — Nancy Cooper Wight, 86, died Tuesday, April 22, 2008, at Langdon Place, Exeter.
She was born May 29, 1921, in Melrose, Mass., the daughter of Stanley K. and Esther (Sayward) Cooper, and moved to Kingston in 1950. She went to Bonita Springs, Fla., in 2002 and returned to New Hampshire in 2005. She attended Hollins College and then worked in New York City for a time.
The widow of Robert A. Wight, who died in 2005, she is survived by three daughters, Callaway Decoster of Greenland, Suzanne Kokaras of South Hampton and Rebecca McKernan of Walpole, Mass.; 10 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by two sons, Andrew and Peter, and one daughter, Heidi.
SERVICES: A memorial service in celebration of her life will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday in Kingston Congregational Church, 5 Church St., Kingston.


text: Virginia Woolf's rich and imaginative use of language was partly a result of her keen interest in foreign literatures and languages - mainly Greek and French, but also Russian, German and Italian. As a translator she naturally addressed herself both to contemporary standards of translation within the university, but also to readers like herself. In Three Guineas she ranged herself among German scholars who used Antigone to critique European politics of the 1930s. Orlando outwits the censors with a strategy that focuses on Proust's untranslatable word. The Waves and The Years show her looking ahead to the problems of postcolonial society, where translation crosses borders. In this first in-depth study of Woolf and European languages and literatures, Emily Dalgarno opens up a rewarding new way of reading her prose.


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As the summer vacation in the Philippines comes to an end, high school graduates who are now bound for college should start taking life more seriously, especially if they have not done so in high school.
For most of us who have taken our high school education in the Philippines, it was a time when we enjoyed the most. We met friends and continued to be friends even after high school. This is why today, the veladas, homecomings and alumni gatherings in the different schools are growing more popular, with more people taking time to attend these events.
As parents, we now enjoy taking trips down memory lane. We still enjoy the company of our friends from high school, some who have not changed at all in attitude, but mainly in looks. When my wife and her batch mates get together, they still think they're in high school. I guess this is how you build on a relationship that cannot be learned but experienced and developed overtime.
I am a parent with five children, with a one-year-old youngest child. Some people can't believe that, specially my friends who think I am over the hill as I turn half a century old next month. But, I am still able to pull off looking younger while on our summer trip in America. I was buying a cigar in a shop and a lady asked me for an ID. I asked her if she was sure about asking for my ID, and as she saw it, she was surprised to see my age. Another instance was in a restaurant in Washington, I was with my kids and I asked for a margarita. Again, a lady asked for my ID. She was surprised as I told her that the people sitting with me are my children. I told my kids, "You guys look 'our' age."
Taking time out and being with our children this summer is something my wife and I have been doing for many years. Now, as my only son is in college and with a daughter who is going to college, my dream is for them to be able to do what they really enjoy doing. Yes, they do need a bit of pushing and directing but that is the most one can do as parents. The best we can do is to teach the right values that will make them successful in life.
Success is not guaranteed even if one is a bright student. There are values that we are able to give our children in terms of what they have seen in us as parents. First and foremost, for parents to keep a good family relationship, both parents must hold on to their marriage vows. They must always remember to live a God-centered life and the rest of the values will just come along.
Carla Limcaoco, daughter of Carlos Salinas, a low profile entrepreneur who is into shipping and transport, has been able to live on her father's dreams. Presently a trustee of Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship, Carla was able to make her dream come true, with her daughter who is into teaching. Her daughter has started to put up her own school this June. Carla says that as parents, we provide our children with the roots and wings and let them fly.
This is the very essence of our role. We may make millions of pesos but in the end, if it is turned into waste because of chaos among family members, then all is lost. I guess what we all really want is for our children to live a happy life no matter what. Some might want just a simple life, but they may still be the happiest persons in the planet. I guess for those who have watched the movie "The Pursuit of Happyness", this movie best shows what life should be.
For the next two to three columns, I have asked other parents to share their dreams for their children. We all want the best for them, but we have to show them how to be the best. Remember that we are the examples of what they will follow.
I asked the following questions to parents from the Go Negosyo community: What would you want your children to be? Do you think local schools can help attain that goal? Do you see your own son or daughter owning a business one day? What would your advice be to other parents?
Here are some of their insights:
ATTY. FELIPE GOZON (CEO, GMA Network Inc.)
Apart from being professionals (if the college course they choose to take is not commerce or business administration), I'd like my children to also have their own businesses. I will advise other parents to encourage their children to have their own businesses and be entrepreneurs.
Eric Alberto (Senior Vice President, PLDT)
I would wish for my three pre-college kids (two girls and a boy) to finish post graduate studies in a course of their choice and best interest. Paramount to such wish is for them to all become socially responsible and productive Filipino citizens. I still believe excellent education can be obtained in the country which can mould any diligent student to be a successful corporate professional, better yet entrepreneur. Yes I would be thankful if one or all of my children would pursue entrepreneurship, as this would allow them to create value multipliers not only for themselves but for others as well. Their mother, Chari, and I do everything within our means to support each of our children to be the best of what they can be in their chosen vocation.
Carla S. Limcaoco (Vice-Chairman/Executive Managing Director, Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc.)
I would like them to pursue professions or establish businesses in accordance with their passions. I would like to see them succeed in all aspects of their lives and whether they work because of necessity or because they love what they do or maybe because they have to, I would like to see them happy.
Yes, I believe that the top universities are able to provide the foundation for this goal although they must constantly look at what is happening around the world and in the area of teaching and education to ensure that the youth are provided the standard and substance of education that will allow them to be competitive in today's globalized world.
What concerns me more are the other schools that may not have the capability due to limitations in teachers and equipment and since many of our youth go to these schools, we are once again challenged in terms of how we can help them compete and responsibly contribute to our society.
Yes (I see my children owning their own business someday), if he or she has it in his or her blood. From the time she was young, my eldest daughter wanted to be a teacher. After graduating she taught for awhile and then decided, together with a group of friends, to put up a pre-school. After a lot of hard work, this has become a reality and now they are marketing their pre-school which is scheduled to open in June. I believe that she is very lucky to be able to pursue a business which is also her passion. This is where it has to begin. There has to be that passion for something, whether it is a product or service, and then there has to be that willingness to venture out and take the risk to make your dream a reality.
Somebody once said that our role as parents is to provide our children with roots and wings. If we do our job right then our kids will have the foundation that they need to start their own lives and more importantly, take responsibility for their actions. In the end they must discover their happiness. We can continue to support and help them along the way, but ultimately, they must make their choices and stand by it.
There will be more insights and sharing from parents in next week's column. We will be featuring an interesting insight given by Dean Pax Lapid of the Entrepreneurs School of Asia.
Archive for May, 2008
OUR DREAMS FOR OUR CHILDRENThursday, May 29th, 2008
As the summer vacation in the Philippines comes to an end, high school graduates who are now bound for college should start taking life more seriously, especially if they have not done so in high school.
The John Maxwell Leadership SummitThursday, May 29th, 2008
Live via Satellite on June 10, 2008
Philamlife Auditorium Manila
Tickets: Balcony P750 (sold out) and Orchestra P1800
Tickets available at:
- TicketWorld outlets in National Bookstore, Robinsons
Department Store and Ayala Malls or through the TicketWorld website
- LBC branches
- Cebu Pacific Air website
08:30—Opening Remarks
08:45—Live Session: The Leadership Challenge by Lloyd
09:15—Live Session: The 360 Leader by Anthony Pangilinan
11:00—John Maxwell Live from Edsa Shangri-La Hotel
02:00—The CEO Leadership Forum
02:45—Closing Program
Reserve your seat! Text LUNA (space) MAXWELL (space) YOUR
NAME and send to 2299. For questions or inquiries, you can call Lloyd Luna at 0927-7562777
or e-mail him at firstname.lastname@example.com
Global Entrepreneurship MonitorThursday, May 22nd, 2008
Global Entrepreneurship Monitor
The Philippines, through the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE), has participated for the first time in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Research Consortium. GEM is the largest single study of entrepreneurial activity in the world. No other benchmark exists that can be used as basis for reliable international comparison. Because of its worldwide reach and rigorous scientific method, GEM has become the world's most influential and authoritative source of empirical data and expertise on the entrepreneurial potential of nations.
To learn more about GEM and the results, download the report .
Copyright 2007 by Imelda J. Madarang, Cielito F. Habito and the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship
No part of this report may be reproduced or otherwise used without
prior written permission from the publisher unless such use is
expressly permitted by applicable law.
Following guidelines must be followed:
Proper accreditation is given to the article writer
Proper accreditation is given to the photographer or artist (if material will be used)
Proper and prominent accreditation is given to Imelda J. Madarang,
Cielito F. Habito and the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship
Food for Thought on Food CrisisThursday, May 22nd, 2008
What is causing the insufficient rice produce in the country? Should we blame the free trade disciples who have been saying "let the countries with the lowest cost structure produce the crops which will make it cheaper for people"? While this may have some truth, I believe we now see what happens when things are overdone.
It shows that even in the Philippines, we cannot be overly dependent on the importation of lower cost products because the situation can change; like what we see now on major categories like rice, wheat, sugar, beef and other commodities, prices of which have gone up to record levels. There are cases when orders of these products are not being served as the exporting countries would prioritize their local needs.
We see the interplay of several factors, such as the phenomenal increase in oil prices and the tragic combined effects of limiting supply and growing demand. We all observed the increasing purchasing power of two of the world's largest markets; that of China and India has raised the demand to all-time-high levels. Meanwhile, the continuing increases in oil prices have encouraged several countries to search for oil substitutes. Countries have started to allocate land to plant crops for biofuel, while oil producing nations have also started efforts to buy farms all over the world, especially in Asia in a bid to assure themselves of food supply (or perhaps to encourage the use of land for food rather than for oil substitutes). How serious will this food crisis go? These things will be corrected in time; but as commodity prices are also exaggerated with many hedge funds buying commodities, prices of commodities will stay high.
Moreover, uneven playing fields or plain market forces in source countries may lead to undue comparative advantage. Typical example would be the exportation by the US to the Philippines of dark chicken meat, which to them is given very low value since the American consumer would prefer white meat parts. This reality almost killed the local chicken industry in the Philippines.
As I was driving down from Los Angeles to San Francisco (and the last time I did this was five years ago), I was amazed to see areas near Santa Barbara and noticed a remarkable change. For over 100 miles on both sides of the road, huge tracks of land were converted to vineyards and planted with other fruit crops. I am sure lots of investments were made. This reminded me of the potential we have in the Philippines, especially in Mindanao. You can imagine Mindanao and the huge tracks of land we also have there. With an almost perfect weather, Mindanao has the tremendous potential of becoming the food basket of the Philippines.
The real situation lies in the Philippines considering we used to be one of the main exporters of rice and good potential in fruit and root crops. We actually trained people from China and Thailand in terms of rice production. As a goal, we must bring up rice production in the Philippines and eventually become self sufficient. How can this be done? What opportunities do this present for entrepreneurs? Likewise, the risks of the weather have been a deterrent to many entrepreneurs venturing into agriculture.
I have asked active Go Negosyo mentors like former Agriculture Secretary and 2007 Entrepreneur of the Year Senen Bacani, together with Arsenio Barcelona and Henry Lim Bon Liong, to share their thoughts on the notion of the Philippines being self-sufficient with rice in the next five years and on what opportunities it presents to entrepreneurs. These are their thoughts and recommendations on the country's agriculture and food security.
From SENEN BACANI:
Realistically, it may take two to three years for our country to be self-sufficient in rice as we need to build/rehab and restore some of our irrigation facilities as well as generate enough certified and hybrid seeds. Programs are in place and what we need is a more effective implementation. Previously, prior to the world crisis, there seems to be ambivalence on the national policy on becoming self-sufficient in rice, whether it takes 100 percent or just about 90 percent of the requirement. Under normal times, it makes economic sense to import rice as other countries like Vietnam and Thailand can produce rice at 200-300 US dollars per ton vs. the Philippines' 400 US dollars per ton. Plus, having self sufficiency also runs the risk of having surpluses at certain times which drives down farmgate prices. But, we see the reality now that when the crisis becomes a global scale, exporting countries will first prioritize their local requirements before serving buying countries like the Philippines. Thus it pays to ensure preparing for our full requirement. Moreover, there is the phenomenon of population growth that must require agriculture planners to prepare for the requirement of the growing population.
On the risk of excess production, assuming we have reached the point of self-sufficiency, there must be a support fund that will allow buying off buffer stocks to keep a good price for farmers, for future use and for possible exports (if price and cost warrant). Export price of course would depend not only on global price but also on the forex rates.
On foreign companies wanting to buy farmlands, our constitution prohibits ownership but investments in JV operations and long term leasing are always possible and would oftentimes make more sense for foreign investors.
Negosyo opportunities would be in the commercial production of organic fertilizers, which right now has remained mostly backyard operations. There are also opportunities for certified and hybrid seeds supply and rice-based value added products.
From ARSENIO BARCELONA of Harbest Agribusiness Corporation
The spiraling prices of basic commodities such as rice and corn have brought up concerns on the soundness of our agricultural policies regarding the efficiency of our development program and their sustainability in the municipal level. Many reasons were given. The doubling of chemical fertilizer costs, high cost of transporting the farm produce to market or to processors, the pressure on labor cost and the increased cost in the procurement of imported rice and corn brought about by the steep increase in Petroleum price per barrel. Many technocrats are also questioning the soundness of Bush's national policy of producing ethanol from corn which placed a lot of pressure on corn price, with fuel competing with feed for cattle. The queuing up of Metro Manila's "poor" before the NFA rice rolling stores seemed to show the reality of a rice shortage. Or is it a "price" shortage for cheaper rice?
With this scenario, our attention is again focused on the rice and corn situation of the country's agricultural output. However, there is sector that ought to have the attention of our local executives to address urgently and immediately the supply of affordable food for the daily needs of Filipinos. This is the vegetables sector. The often neglected yet highly effective means to provide an affordable substitute for imported food that will provide the basic nutritional requirement of most Filipinos with rice.
As an immediate action to address the high prices of rice and corn, as well as food items in the market, it is suggested that LGUs take the lead in implementing a serious vegetable production in the barangay level, with logistical support for basic inputs and irrigation system that can provide the necessary element for success in its vegetable self-sufficiency program.
From HENRY LIM BON LIONG and JOH DUNGCA of SL Agritech Corp.:
The government will succeed in its rice self-sufficiency program which was started by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in 2001, if we will go into hybrid rice production in a more massive scale. The average yield of the inbred rice variety is only three tons per hectare whereas; hybrid rice variety can yield more than 10 tons per hectare. At present, only 200,000 hectares out of the 3.9 million hectares of the country's total rice farms are planted with hybrid rice. If we can increase the hectares planted with hybrid rice by 800,000 hectares, this will produce an additional 3.2 million metric tons of palay or two million metric tons of rice (800,000 hectares x 4 tons per hectare = 3.2 million metric tons of palay). With this production, we will be able to attain self-sufficiency in rice and would not need to import a single grain.
There will be more recommendations and thoughts on the country's agriculture and food security from Go Negosyo mentors and entrepreneurs next week.
PAGBABAGO 2010.2016Thursday, May 15th, 2008
As the USA elections unfold, I took time to visit Washington with my kids just a week ago. We went to see the tourist attractions, one of which was the World War 2 Memorial. I was surprised to see the Philippines as one of the countries recognized for helping America. Our country's name and flag were acknowledged, together with the 51 states of America. For a while there, I thought the Philippines was the 52nd state. I'm sure a number of Filipinos would have wanted the Philippines to be the 52nd state.
Kidding aside, Americans take pride in honoring their nation, same as in honoring their heroes, like Abraham Lincoln and George Washington, who have brought America to its present democracy and political maturity. It will take generations for the Philippines to get to where America is in terms of their mature political system – a two party system and a bicameral presidential system, with senators representing each state. The Philippines has basically copied the American system, but not quite completely. We don't have a two-party system and our senators are not representing a particular region or province.
For more than 20 years since the EDSA revolution, we have gone through a Philippine boom and bust cycle brought about mainly by political ramblings. We have come to a point when we need to put forward more serious discussions on the country's future; and it starts from a review of our current constitution. We have started a movement called Pagbabago 2010.2016, which calls for our country's leadership to start taking the desired changes that our people want to see.
The presidential race in America has Obama as the favorite with his unique advocacy to change the culture of American politics and failed policies of the past through the grassroots movement. People see him as someone who will lead change in America.
So far, our country has a number of possible aspirants planning to run for presidential elections: Mar Roxas, Manny Villar, Loren Legarda, Chiz Escudero, Richard Gordon, and Noli de Castro. This list will become longer as we come closer to the 2010 elections. As elections approach, we hope that discussions will center on issues and platforms that need to be changed. What political structure is fit for us? What economic structures need to be changed in our constitution? What provisions need to be re-examined like on the extent of foreign investments in our country's utilities, education and media. How can we allow more recognition and participation from provinces towards national development? These are only some of the questions that voters have to ask themselves as the 2010 elections approach.
Time has come for aspiring candidates to come forward and present their clear programs for change. Will the Philippines have an Obama in the making? America may have their first woman president or the first young African-American President. For us, this is our chance to elect the Philippine President who will start real changes.
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In line with the objectives of PAGBABAGO 2010.2016, Go Negosyo continues to move forward in our desire to build an entrepreneurial nation. Our stories of success reached as far as the Middle East as the Go Negosyo: Joey Concepcion's 50 Inspiring Entrepreneurial Stories was featured in the Times of Oman Magazine. "Stories that Inspire" referred to the book as it was acknowledged as one of the top-selling books in the Philippines.
Let me share with you some comments on the book from the article:
STORIES THAT INSPIRE by Nasima H. Khan
"In this collection of stories written by different people, there are valuable entrepreneurial lessons to be learnt."
"The actual stories are exciting and cover entrepreneurs of all ages irrespective of gender. The sole factor in featuring them is their success as entrepreneurs."
"The write-ups are short and precise by different writers – almost like newspaper articles – focusing on the person and how the entrepreneurship was built up. The reading is simple and, well, inspiring. Entrepreneurs are not born, this book convinces the reader. Indeed, they are discovered and developed…"
We also got very good feedback from new entrepreneurs from as far as Davao and Dipolog, who have credited their venture into entrepreneurship and their current strategies from Go Negosyo mediums like our weekly Bigtime TV show, forums and the books we published.
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We were also happy to see a good crowd in our Go Negosyo: Joey Concepcion's 50 Inspiring Stories of Entrepreneurs Celebrity Edition book tour last Mothers' Day in Powerbooks Greenbelt. We would like to thank the people who participated in the intimate business forum with Tintin Bersola, Abby Arenas-deLeon, Cathy Brillantes-Turvill and Mike Turvil. It was inspiring to hear their stories and their learnings as they were too generous in sharing their entrepreneurial advice. We also invite you to join us in the next mini forum with our celebrity entrepreneurs. Go Negosyo will be in Powerbooks Trinoma on May 25, 3-5 pm for a mini-forum and free business consultations.
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Last Tuesday night was also a proud moment for entrepreneurs, as the Nokia Mobile Entrepreneur Awards recognized the innovative Filipino entrep. Nokia Philippines General Manager William Hamilton-Whyte and Go Negosyo Exec. Director Mon Lopez presented the award to two very young entrepreneurs, who have shown creativity and innovation and who have also been using extensive mobile technology in their business. They are Alvin Tan of Technominds and Oliver Kuy of Kuy Digital. The other 4 finalists are Mary Grace Pauline S. Llamas of Asian Link Bath and Body Essentials, Francis Anthony Zapanta of Netland Cellcard Station and Cellphone Repair Center, Dennis T. Camus Autozone Paint and Bodyworks, and Paulo M. Tibig Vintel Logistics, Inc.. We are glad to be a part of this project that aims to surface new inspiring entrep business models. We thank Go Negosyo advocates who helped in the judging – Dondi Mapa and Dickie Gonzalez, together with Director Myrna Pablo of DTI and Nokia's Nikka Abes Singson. Joint efforts of various sectors for the common good really go a long way in touching lives.
The Perfect StormThursday, May 8th, 2008
As recession hangs over America today; it brings about memories of the Asian crisis during the late 90s, which was also the last three years of President Ramos' tenure. If not for the Asian crisis, Ramos would have scored close to a ten for bringing the Philippines to greater heights. But, the Asian crisis was brought about by greed, pushing property prices and development as if there was no end to good times.
This was not a Philippine problem to start with, but more of our Asian neighbors – Thailand, Malaysia, Korea, etc.. Their rapid expansion in property development led a lot of companies to borrow money in US dollars. As the foreign funds pulled out of their country, it led to a massive devaluation, which caused the property bubble to burst.
In the Asian crisis, the property bubble and foreign exchange losses hit the developers and larger corporations. In America, the property bubble which led to the financial crisis is hitting not only the financial institutions but the American consumer who has borrowed with very low equity, even for as low as ten percent. Before the crisis, at that time, even a zero down gets a consumer to finance a house. People live by credit in America, compared to Asians who would rather pay cash. Now, financial institutions have realized this mistake. They have increased standards in lending, which is now making it difficult for people to finance the homes they want to buy or refinance homes. This reminds me of how lax traveling in America was prior to the 911 incident. After the terrorist attack, travel security has been so strict to some extent, maybe even to an extreme point. This is how credit in America is and this is how it will be in the future.
I hope I am wrong, but America is still going through the same denial stage as what I saw in Asia. Now, the questions are how long will this recession last and how will it affect us in Asia.
Stock markets surely don't reflect a recession. Having dropped to 12800 from a high of 14200 is not a major correction. In fact, China, Asia and especially the Philippines have dropped a lot more – close to 30 % on the average.
Jobs are becoming more difficult. Now people have to face the high prices of gas and other commodities, from meat, milk, rice to wheat and sugar. Name it. All prices of food products are on the rise. This will hit the American consumers' pocket. This could be the making of the perfect storm. With a looming recession and inflation, not caused by high demand but by basic commodities and gasoline hitting the roof, the American consumer will surely be affected.
How will Asia be affected? We, too, will have our share of problems but more on the high prices of oil and other commodities. I always believe that these situations are exaggerated by the hedge funds who bet on commodity and oil prices. These are the speculators – all part of the financial derivative system we live in today. Luckily, these have been mitigated to some extent with the currencies in Asia appreciating to high levels. Can you imagine what it would have been if the peso were at the rate of 56? How much would rice, bread, milk and gasoline be? Despite all these, I believe that if Asia will be able to show growth even with the recession in America; China and other Asian countries will eventually decouple from America. In a way, however, we also benefit from a recessionary environment in America. Due to cost pressures, several American companies choose to outsource or import cheap labor through call centers and other services in Asia, especially in the Philippines. This presents us with a unique advantage, as Filipinos are one of the best English communicators in the world. We will continue to have a shortage of accountants, legal professionals, architects, etc.; but the best part is that we don't need to export these people. They stay in the Philippines. The high cost structure in America will force them to import this labor.
What we also need to build is our food security program. I think the current situation shows us that we need to manage a balance between the necessity of a food security program and import liberalization. While importation is a way to ensure the availability of basic food items in normal times, we also see that it may not be that reliable as a source during tight global supply situations. We see some supplying countries naturally ensuring first the ample supply in their country before exporting priced food commodities. We therefore have to secure our capability to produce the basic critical commodities like rice and corn at any time. Like I said, we need balance. We cannot allow industries to be destroyed because it's cheaper to import.
I believe that our ability to face challenges depend on the strength of our system and the resilience of our people. We have proven the resilience of Filipinos in facing one crisis after another, having lived with a boom-bust cycle over the previous decades. What we need is to further strengthen the very fiber of our economic and political structures to have a more robust growth. It is high-time we let the people and the experts review the important provisions in our charter; such as finding out the most effective form of government for our country, reviewing policies on land ownership by foreigners, development of natural resources, and foreign ownership in public utilities and telecommunications, to name a few.
Our advocacy to encourage Pagbabago in 2010.2016 presents us the opportunity to discuss these issues to have a more conducive Negosyo climate. We seek a stronger political-economic structure that allows greater unity and speed in moving the country and its people forward, a structure that can put us in a better position to face the perfect storms in our times… a structure that will empower the regions and create an entrepreneurial environment.
Time has come for real issues to be tackled. Let it start now…
Our Last ChanceThursday, May 1st, 2008
I guess we have been saying for many years now that the Philippines has its last chance, but somehow God has been gracious enough to keep giving us many opportunities to be a great nation. Last week, after a lot of consultations with some senators, entrepreneurs and professional managers, the basic conclusion is that 2010 is when we reach a very critical point to make correct decisions for our future. I am referring to the need to integrate in the forthcoming 2010 elections the modes and process in adjusting our economic and political structures that will spur a more robust growth cycle for the country. What should be our systems and policies? This is similar to what entrepreneurs do when they review their company's business model either thru the usual strategic planning process or the new Blue Ocean approach.
It's time for the so-called Philippines Inc. to start the review of its "business model", which translates to the socio-economic and political structures and policies that influence the overall macro-environment which we live in. We can expect the country's future leaders running for public office and the highest position of the land to be talking about real issues during the campaign, mainly their platform and positions on critical provisions in the constitution.
This is why I have launched the 2010.2016, a movement for change or "pagbabago". One of the senators that I had the chance to talk to was Sen. Nene Pimentel and we did share ideas. I told him 2010.2016 is not pushing for a parliament or status quo or Federalism. We are pushing for a mindset change for people to get involved and start the process of discussions, and the need to put in the agenda the review of our system. We need to start the debates and push for the process that will make this happen, either through a constitutional convention or a constitutional assembly, whatever Congress believes as the right approach.
Together with the national election in 2010, the process could include the election of the members of concon. Unless if congress feels a con-assembly is more practical, that could be the mechanism where elected members of Congress will constitute themselves into a constitutional assembly after the 2010 elections are held. We encourage the discussion to start now for people to understand. For example, which form of government is best for our country in light of all the socio-economic and political considerations? Should it be a bicameral or unicameral parliament or federalism? Or just a status quo of Presidential form with bicameral Congress? Other important constitutional provisions can be reviewed. We need the experts and the people to debate on whether or not it is better to have a geographical representation in Senate. What is the ideal term limit for national and local executives? What is the ideal degree of fiscal independence for local governments? Do we need to open up the foreign ownership of land just like in most Asian countries? Or determine first if ownership of land and the development of natural resources are critical at all to foreign investment decisions? Or what should be the degree of foreign ownership in media, public utilities, telecommunications and schools? These are just some provisions that can be revisited as we aim to strengthen our economic and political systems.
We are glad to see that Sen. Nene Pimentel filed Senate Resolution No. 10 which calls for a federal form of government. Ten other senators co-signed this resolution: Senate President Manny Villar, Senators Eduardo Angara, Pia Cayetano, Juan Ponce Enrile, Cheese Escudero, Jinggoy Estrado, Gringo Honasan, Panfilo Lacson, Kiko Pangilinan and Bong Revilla. Not to say if we are for or against federalism as many Filipinos would have their own views. But it is high time we consider all the pros and cons, or the modifications necessary. The point is we start talking and hopefully engage the electorate in voting for leaders that do make sense of the vision on how the new constitution will be able to help improve the lives of the Filipinos.
While Go Negosyo continues to inspire and empower people to have an optimistic and entrepreneurial mindset, it also wants to see a more stable entrep climate. Go Negosyo supports a move towards greater empowerment of the regions, encouraging leaders and the people to be creative and enterprising. Leaders should be elected on the basis of how much development they can bring in pushing for structures that will benefit a negosyo climate thru creative opportunities for people to invest in agriculture, tourism, and service industries. All these should lead in the development of products and services that are the strengths of the province. This will happen if we start to review our structures to enable our country to achieve a more sustainable progress. 2010 is not far away. Now is the time for 2010.2016 "PAGBABAGO".