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Men's Shop
SilverTQ, LLC has specialized in selling Native American sterling silver handcrafted jewelry since 1978. We personally handpick all of our jewelry and crafts to assure that every piece passes our vigorous inspection, no matter if it is a smaller earring, up to the largest necklaces, concho belts and statement pieces.
Our Men's Shop classification is not designed to be exclusive, as much of Native American jewelry is unisex, worn by men and women. However, we have categorized our jewelry items to help distinguish them and make searching on our website easier. Here, we will be discussing authentic Native American handcrafted buckles, bolos, rings, bracelets, money clips, keychains, and concho belts. These items tend to be more commonly associated with men's wear being either made exclusively of solid sterling silver or those being sterling silver set with stones. The stones might be cabochon style, or one of the few different styles of inlay. Stone on stone inlay is characterized by stones set tightly next to each other. Channel inlay is characterized by thin slivers of sterling silver separating the stones. Cobblestone inlay generally has the stones set tightly next to each other but does not have a smooth top as the stones are of varying heights. All styles of inlay are completely hand fitted by the artist.
Buckles are made to be used with full-sized or dress belts, the difference being the width of the belt. The narrower dress belts use a generally narrower and smaller buckle to match the width of the belt so it will look balanced. Standard size buckles will fit wider belts. Some buckles will have differing sized widths and lengths of the buckle face but the connectors for the belt will be similar. The belt connector will be mostly identified as a "finding" being the only component not completely Native American Indian handcrafted. There are some instances where the connector is handmade, but these are the exception rather than the rule, and do not have a swivel built in like the finding does. Buckles might be all silver with stamping, repousse' and saw work, bezel work with cabochon stonework or one of the varieties of inlay work. (See the Classification paragraph above for descriptions)
Bolos are made of silver bases that slide up and down on a hand-braided leather cord also created by the Native American Indian artist. The base might be all silver with stamping and repousse', saw work or file work, or sandcast technique, and might have cabochon stone setting, or differing styles of inlay, as described in the Classification paragraph above. The back of the bolo generally has a slide connector soldered to the back of the base. This is a "finding", a commercial component that tightens against the cord when down, and releases the cord when opened up to allow the bolo body to slide up and down on the cord. The artist sometimes elects to hand craft the cord connector with two silver loops that are flattened up and down to squeeze against the cord and to hold the bolo body in place. The ends of the bolo cord will be finished with sterling silver cord tips, sometimes hand crafted but also allowable to be a 'finding' category. Bolos are also worn by women.
Rings are popular jewelry items worn by men and women. We at SilverTQ, LLC loosely classify rings of size 10 and above as being those more likely suited for men and those under size 10 as being more suited for women. However, this should be deemed no more than a very casual classification. Some men wear sizes smaller than 10 and, conversely, some women have ring sizes at 10 or above. Which finger is chosen to wear the ring also plays a role in the size needed. Wider bands on the rings will dictate that a slightly larger size will be needed as opposed to a narrow band. The wider band will rest on more of the width of the finger. Rings are made in many different styles from solid silver to cabochons to the various styles of inlay mentioned in the Classification paragraph sited above. The ring you choose should be one that "speaks" to you.
Money clips are designed to hold credit cards or paper money, generally folded in half, for those that prefer to not use wallets. The body of the money clip is not sterling silver as it is too soft a metal to grip and hold the money and/or cards. The metal used is generally 20-gauge nickel silver (sometimes called German Silver but is not silver) that mimics the look of sterling but will maintain the "spring" needed to hold the money or cards. All of the work on top of this will be sterling silver. If there is a solid silver top with stamping, the whole top of the clip will be overlaid with sterling that is worked with stamping, etc. Sometimes stones are set in bezels soldered directly to the nickel metal and extra scroll and leaf work soldered as well so you have sterling silver soldered directly onto nickel. Money clips might also be set with one of the varieties of inlay work. (See the Classification paragraph above for descriptions) This very useful item is a popular men's gift.
Keychains are obviously designed to store keys using a product that is uniquely Native American Indian handcrafted. Keychains maybe all sterling silver with stamping and repousse' work or stones set in a cabochon style, or one of the varieties of inlay work (see the Classification paragraph for descriptions). The base of the keychain will be a 'finding' made typically of nickel (sometimes called German Silver, but it has no silver content). Typically the opening (bail) will be squeezed to release so that keys might be added. The body will have sterling silver work either as bezel set cabochons or one of the varieties of inlay work. (see the Classification paragraph above for descriptions) This is a unique Native American Indian handcrafted item is commonly used by men and women.
Bracelets, a popular jewelry accessory, are commonly worn by men and women. However the men's bracelets are typically heavier in weight and larger sized, as one might expect. The bracelets may be either solid sterling silver, sometimes with 14 KG appliqué, and stamping or repousse' favored by many men, or they might be set with stones in bezel cabochon fashion or might have inlay work of differing styles (see the Classification paragraph above for descriptions). There is not a set definition to say male or female orientation, just what suits your fancy and the design(s) that appeal to you. The "look" and style is determined solely by the Native American Indian artist. They are created in narrow, medium and wide styles and use about every combination and look as envisioned by the artist. Let the bracelet "speak" to you and you will enjoy this unique Indian handcrafted jewelry for years to come.
Concho belts are a unique accessory that is worn equally by Indian men and women in the southwestern USA. A concho usually consists of a belt buckle and various numbers of sterling silver Conchos, usually 11 to 13 in number depending upon the size of the belt. Sometimes there is a smaller piece called a butterfly that is spaced in between each concho. These belts can be considered as heirlooms and might be passed through generations in a family. The belt might be strung on leather with the ability to slide and move the Conchos tighter or loser, and holes in the belt leather to adjust the size. This would be called a leather concho. The belt might be hooked together with silver loops connecting each concho into one longer unit. This is called a link concho and is adjustable by hooking the hook on the buckle into various links. It should be noted no leather is used for a link Concho belt. Concho belts might be all silver with stamping and repousse'. They also might be sterling silver bodies with bezels and cabochon stonework or any combination of the various inlays described in the Classification paragraph above. These belts are truly statement pieces.
Navajo "Old Style" 3-Stone Natural Kingman Turquoise Bracelet – STB#1312$1,185.00
Navajo "Old Style" Kingman Turquoise Belt Buckle – BU#1027$385.00
Navajo "Old Style" Kingman Turquoise Belt Buckle – BU#1042$395.00
Navajo "Old Style" Kingman Turquoise Belt Buckle – BU#1043$395.00
Navajo "Old Style" Kingman Turquoise Belt Buckle – BU#1050$385.00
Navajo "Old Style" Natural 5-Nugget Lone Mountain Turquoise Row Bracelet – STB#1273$575.00
Showing 19–24 of 414 results


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Who Do We Work With?
The Fellowship is by invitation only. We look for partner organisations who are serious about their commitment to becoming more responsible organisations and are dedicated to improving and sharing the ways in which their future leaders are helping to tackle society's challenges.
Serious exploration of responsibility, even when the conversations get tough is difficult and requires senior support. Each organisation we work with has a Senior Sponsor who is responsible for nominating candidates to apply for the programme.
We have a number of criteria that are used for selecting nominated candidates for the programme, which are listed below:
Be successful
Candidates should be accomplished leaders with a clear track record of success and usually ~20 years of outstanding professional work experience. For large organisations they are typically one or two levels beneath the main Board.
Be high potential
Candidates should exhibit very clear senior leadership potential.
Have influence
We aim for practical results. So we look for individuals that have influence in their organisation (strategically and with their peers), have a strong internal network and are committed to putting new ideas into practice.
Be willing to come open and engaged
All candidates should be intellectually curious, open to new ideas and willing to engage with diverse points of view. They should be comfortable with a programme that requires self-direction and self-reflection.
Candidates must commit to attending all of the programme - at least 16 days over 18 months.
Be committed
We aim to assemble our cohorts from a wide range of personal and professional backgrounds. We ask organisations to nominate candidates that reflect the diversity they aspire to in their future senior leadership team.

subset: commoncrawl


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Support for Transitions
We all experience change daily and we can move through stressful transitions moment to moment, aging with grace.
Change can motivate you to more deeply seek your purpose. But, sometimes change feels too hard and it's difficult to do it on your own. It requires someone who can be present with you in the emotions that you're feeling. I will help you to have a sense of perspective and guide you to refine your intuition by respecting your emotions. I have a history of experience with cultures and working with family and relationship stress. I deeply feel our body's connection to nature and the cycles of life. Self care is the first step in healing.
Practical and spiritual tools can be helpful to you as I guide you step by step with your challenges for personal and professional goals. Over time daily meditation creates a familiar base in your life. You begin to feel more inner space to develop your intuition and more perspective. I have meditated for over 30 years and I can guide you with various simple meditations.
Having a conscious plan can help you to focus your time, reduce stress and live each moment more effectively through a deeper connection to the present. The International Coach Federation states "Those who undertake coaching can expect appreciable improvement in productivity, satisfaction with life and work, and the attainment of relevant goals."
It is important to be seen for what you can offer to lead a fulfilling personal and business life - and discover your passion. In the end the answers will come from you with the right supportive inquiry.
When you are clear with your priorities, your boundaries, and your pace, your life and relationships will have new flow and meaning. I will support you in your transitions.
For sessions contact me.


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Style Sunday | First pigtails
So I thought that I would do a style Sunday for you.Lilly is wearing a simple green Ladybird dress with white poka dot. She also has some cute little pig tails for the first time ever. Such a nice summertime outfit as it is very airy material. She looks so cite I'm the outfit too. Sorry about the blurry pic and curly hair.


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Exceeding Excellence
Augusta, GA 30909
United States
ph: 706-394-2343
fax: 706-243-4749
alt: 706-799-0479
ComTac is a supplier of spare parts for commercial and military vehicles worldwide, including all installations and direct to DLA / TACOM. We can offer you immediate shipment on most parts, and if we don't carry it in stock we will find it or order the item directly from the manufacture, ie. AM General, Lockheed, AxleTech, BAE, Oshkosh, etc. Supporting a wide range of vehicles. We use the same numbering system as the military or the O.E.M., so if you have a NSN, NIIN, or commercial part number, we can identify the item and get to work to help supply your needs. We have an extensive research facility and the resources to find whatever you require if we do not have the part in stock. With over 60,000 NSN/commercial numbers available, we can give rapid response & service.
Vehicles for which we can supply parts and assemblies:
HMMWV (all variations)
CUCV Utility
M35 Series (2 ½ Ton)
M800 & M900 Series (5 Ton)
M915 thru M920 Series, (Al & A2)
HEMTT family of 8X8 vehicles
PLS - Palletized Loading System
All M-Series trailers of any size
All Generators/Power Units
M113 Family of APC
M48, M60, M88 Tanks
SEE, (Small Emplacement Excavator)
FMTV (all variations)
M1 Abrams
M2 & M3 (Bradley)
MRAP's (all variations)
V150 Series
…and MORE !!!
ComTac is working with the following military and defense customers:
Active Motor Pools and DOL maintenance facilities on major installations throughout the U.S.
National Guard Maintenance Shops
United States Army Reserve ECS and AMSA facilities
Deployed military and contractor units throughout North America, South America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East
Prime Vendors, Major Govt. supply chain programs, DLA, TACOM, etc.
Augusta, GA 30909
United States
ph: 706-394-2343
fax: 706-243-4749
alt: 706-799-0479


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A number of the alternative performance indicators used in this press release are not envisaged under IFRS accounting standards (EBITDA, Net Financial Debt, etc.). These terms are defined in the Appendix.
2010-2012 Strategic Guidelines and targets approved
Approved a 240 million euro capital increase, the cancellation of nominal value and a reverse stock split (one for ten)
Content Competence Centre contract with Telecom Italia renewed
Executive Deputy Chairman Giovanni Stella appointed CEO following the resignation of Mauro Nanni
Andrea Mangoni co-opted as company director. Nomination to be submitted to the forthcoming Shareholders' Meeting for the approval of the 2009 financial statements
Shareholders' Meeting called; proposal to appoint PricewaterhouseCoopers as external auditors for the period 2010-2018
Increased revenues and stringent cost-cutting measures during the year enabled the company to close 2009 with a nearly 80% reduction in EBITDA losses
LA7 posts excellent +12.0% gross advertising income, against a 10.2% slump in the television market as a whole
As a result of the disposal of a majority 60% stake in the TM News company on 15 May 2009, pursuant to IFRS 5, TM News earnings are classified as "Net profit (loss) from discontinued operations/assets held for sale". To foster greater clarity in this presentation of the Group's earnings, historical income statement data used in comparisons with the 2009 figures have been restated and recognized under like items. Similarly, accounts figures up to 31 December 2008 pertaining to Pay-per-View operations, which were sold off on 1 December 2008, are classified as Discontinued Operations.
At today's meeting, chaired by Berardino Libonati, the Telecom Italia Media Board of Directors examined and approved:
- The Group's FY 2009 financial statements;
- The 2010-2012 Strategic Guidelines and targets;
- The proposal to increase share capital by 240 million euro through the cancellation of nominal value and a one for ten reverse stock split;
- The renewal of the Content Competence Centre Contract with Telecom Italia;
- The appointment to CEO of Executive Deputy Chairman Giovanni Stella following the resignation of Mauro Nanni; the co-optation as company director of Andrea Mangoni, whose appointment will be submitted to the forthcoming Shareholders' Meeting;
The call for a Shareholders' Meeting, and a proposal to appoint PricewaterhouseCoopers as external auditors for the period 2010-2018, following the revocation of Reconta Ernst & Young's mandate.
A. Draft FY 2009 Group Financial Statements
FY 2009 closed with a marked improvement on 2008. The Parent company's share of net losses (-72.5 million euro) improved by 21.4 million euro compared with the preceding financial year (-93.9 million euro), despite the impact of 14.5 million euro in charges associated with the disposal of equity interests, predominantly generated by the sale of 60% of TM News. This improvement is all the more impressive considering the major slump in the TV advertising income market, which was down 10.2% over the year (Nielsen figures, December 2009). Against this backdrop, LA7 put in a particularly strong performance, registering a 12.0% rise in gross advertising income (up 13.8 million euro) compared with 2008.
Consolidated Group revenues in FY 2009 were up 12.5 million euro (5.8%) to 227.3 million euro, compared with 214.8 million euro for FY 2008, predominantly as a result of higher revenues for TI Media S.p.A. and the Network Operator (TIMB).
FY 2009 EBITDA amounted to -7.3 million euro, compared with -35.6 million euro for FY 2008, a 28.3 million euro improvement (+79.5%). This excellent operating result is attributable to the above-mentioned increase in revenues, 14.2 million euro in lower programming costs, aggressive efficiency gains at LA7 and, to a lesser extent, 10.4 million euro in efficiency gains at MTV, following aggressive company restructuring.
FY 2009 EBIT amounted to -67.6 million euro, a 29.2 million euro improvement (compared with -96.8 million euro for FY 2008).
The net result for Parent company shareholders, excluding discontinued operations/assets held for sale, improved by 21.4 million euro to -72.5 million euro (-93.9 million euro for FY 2008).
Net financial debt at 31 December 2009 amounted to 345.1 million euro, up 58.3 million euro compared with 31 December 2008 (286.8 million euro). Compared with 30 September 2009, net financial debt rose 27.7 million euro, predominantly as a result of funding requirements for operations over the period.
Results Breakdown by Sector
1. Telecom Italia Media S.p.A.
Telecom Italia Media S.p.A.'s FY 2009 revenues amounted to 113.7 million euro, up 16.3 million euro (+16.7%) compared with 2008 (97.4 million euro).
EBITDA amounted to -37.8 million euro, a 28.0 million euro improvement compared with 2008 (-65.8 million euro).
EBIT amounted to -65.4 million euro, a 26.3 million euro improvement compared with 2008 (–91.7 million euro).
The Parent company's share of the net result amounted to -64.8 million euro, a 15.6 million euro improvement on 2008 (-80.4 million euro).
Net financial debt at year-end 2009 amounted to 245.8 million euro, compared with 179.0 million euro at year-end 2008.
Telecom Italia Media S.p.A.'s revenues were driven by net advertising income, which in 2009 registered growth in excess of 13.2% compared with the previous year. This performance is all the more impressive considering the industry-wide slump registered in 2009: as noted earlier, TV advertising income posted a 10.2% drop (Nielsen figures, December 2009). Turnover also benefited from service operations on behalf of Dahlia TV (around 3 million euro), which were completed at the end of June 2009.
LA7's excellent FY 2009 results are also in part attributable to a fine performance by the Cairo concessionary, and to benefits arising from sharp network-wide cuts on operating costs amounting to around 12.6 million euro.
Such action involved mainly a cost review for the LA7 schedule, in particular for entertainment programmes, as well as reorganization measures to recoup efficiency and raise productivity, resulting in reduced labour costs and external costs.
With an average daily share of 3.0%, down slightly on the figure of 3.1% registered for 2008, LA7's FY 2009 result was sufficiently excellent to enable the network to hit its viewer figure targets. This was achieved despite the year being characterized by significant cuts to the programming budget, and the competition from digital terrestrial television as more and more parts of Italy went "all-digital".
Digital Content operation revenues generated 15.3 million euro, up 6.3 million euro compared with the figure of 9.0 million euro recorded in FY 2008. Growth in operations was achieved by developing new offerings for IPTV clients, which grew in number compared with the same period in 2008.
2. MTV Group
MTV's revenues amounted to 97.4 million euro, down 14.3% compared with 2008 (113.6 million euro). This performance was impacted primarily by a reduction in net advertising income over the period (down 22.7%, from 69.7 million euro in 2008 to 53.9 million euro in 2009).
MTV implemented a corporate reorganization programme to counter this slump in advertising revenue. Focusing predominantly on the production side, the drive generated 14.2 million euro in cost savings and made it possible to offset the impact of lower revenues on EBITDA , which at the end of 2009 amounted to 10.9 million euro (down 3.6 million euro compared with 2008). Excluding one-off charges of 2.1 million euro associated with the restructuring programme, EBITDA posted a fall of 1.5 million euro compared with the previous year.
EBIT amounted to 3.0 million euro, essentially reflecting EBITDA performance, and was down 3.6 million euro compared with FY 2008.
3. Network Operator (TIMB)
Revenues from Network Operator activities amounted to 49.7 million euro, up 5.3 million euro (+11.9%) compared with FY 2008 (44.4 million euro). This performance is essentially attributable to higher revenues from digital multiplex hosting services.
EBITDA amounted to 17.8 million euro, up 2.2 million euro compared with 2008 (15.6 million euro), and was driven by revenue growth.
EBIT amounted to -7.0 million euro, after registering a 4.8 million euro improvement compared with 2008 (-11.8 million euro). This was achieved thanks to the revenue growth mentioned earlier, but was partially offset by an increase in operating costs.
FY 2009 capex amounted to 21.7 million euro, up 9.1 million euro compared with the same period in 2008, as TIMB digitized its networks in regions where the analogue TV switch-off has gone live.
As at 31 December 2009, the three digital multiplexes (excluding the fourth, which at the time of writing is operational in Sardinia only), respectively covered 79.3%, 88.9% and 29.5% of the Italian population (the third operating in "all digital" areas only).
B. 2010-2012 Guidelines
TI Media's growth strategy is based on actions designed to extract value from its role as a publisher and service provider. In pursuit of this goal, the Group is focusing on content creation and aggregation, and the development of new channels as part of its multi-platform approach. The company's role as a Media Service Provider will see it offering broadcast services and platforms to support other media players' content creation, aggregation and distribution.
Strategic Guidelines and targets in individual sectors are as follows:
TELECOM ITALIA MEDIA SpA/LA7
- TV: consolidate the channel's editorial approach, which is noted for its creativity, innovation, pluralism and diversity of opinion, while maintaining programming efficiency enhancement policies; launch a second channel (LA7D) on DTT at the end of March targeted more towards female and young viewers;
- New Media: develop LA7.TV, the new over-the-internet catch-up TV venture, which was rolled out in December with the goal of: a) maximizing advertising income by reusing TV content; b) positioning the network as a leading-edge player on the Italian market; c) utilizing the platform to evaluate innovative advertising formats and try out offerings of web-specific content and Over the Top TV (OTTV). As a result of the renewed Telecom Italia contract, content selection activities will continue for IPTV and OTTV, leveraging media competencies and relationships with broadcasters and content providers.
MTV Group
- TV: maintains innovative positioning and youth target leadership by generating value from MTV International network productions; counter the reduction in advertising revenue by launching a new channel in "all digital" areas, offering music-only programming, while continuing with the aggressive efficiency enhancement and cost control drive;
- Theme-based channels via satellite: increase the number of channels under the Nickelodeon and Comedy Central brands to confront increasing competition;
- Multimedia and "Mobile": make MTV the go-to destination for music on the internet in Italy, in part by launching an online store for music videos (for example, MTVmusic.com); strengthen positioning on the Mobile market by focusing strongly on music as the key USP compared to other carriers' offerings.
Network Operator (TIMB)
- Obtain the fourth MUX ;
- Complete roll-out of the digital network by implementing an effective investment plan that achieves the target of 95% population coverage by the switch-off deadline;
- Focus sales efforts on DTT newcomers by highlighting the network's status as the most attractive operator thanks to greater bandwidth availability;
- Grow turnover by increasing the amount of bandwidth sold and offering new services, seizing opportunities generated by market growth as new content providers emerge; continue with ongoing cost efficiencies in order to hit profitability growth targets.
The Telecom Italia Media Group expects the above strategies to make it possible to achieve the following targets over the three-year period 2010-2012:
Average revenue growth of around 10% annually, driven particularly by TI Media Broadcasting.
Confirmation of EBITDA break-even in 2010 and a target of a 15%/18% EBITDA Margin by 2012.
Investment of approx. 200 million euro, of which approx. 90 million euro in the Network Operator (predominantly to convert analogue networks to digital), and approx. 85 million euro in TV rights acquisitions.
A significant reduction in financial debt and the restoration of financial balance following the 240 million euro capital increase.
C. Capital Increase
The Board of Directors has furthermore examined a proposal to undertake a capital increase. The Board resolved to call a Shareholders' Meeting in extraordinary session to consider:
(a) Cancelling the nominal value of ordinary and savings shares;
(b) A reverse stock split at a ratio of one ordinary / savings share for every 10 ordinary / savings shares held, without modifying the nature or extent of rights vested in the savings shares;
(c) A capital increase of 240 million euro through the issue of ordinary shares to be offered on an optional basis to ordinary and savings share holders, revoking the Board's previous power to raise share capital to a total 10 million euro. In the run-up to the offer, the Board of Directors is empowered to set the subscription price, the maximum number of shares to be issued, and the option ratio.
Majority shareholder Telecom Italia, which controls Telecom Italia Media via a 69.2% direct and indirect equity interest, has guaranteed its support for the initiative and pledged to subscribe its portion of the capital increase, in addition to any residual portion that remains unassigned.
On receipt of all necessary authorizations and completion of fulfilment requirements, should market conditions allow, the capital increase will go ahead subsequent to shareholders' approval during the first half of 2010.
The capital increase is part of the 2010-2012 Business Plan approved today by the Board of Directors. It has been designed to reinforce the company's asset structure and support growth in the extremely dynamic market in which it operates.
D. Renewal of Content Competence Centre Contract with Telecom Italia
The Board has approved the renewal of the Content Competence Centre Agreement with Telecom Italia, which will allow TI Media to continue and expand its activities in conceiving and planning programming, research, and acquisition of media content for distribution over Telecom Italia's various TV platforms (IPTV, CUBO, WEB - formerly Yalp!-). As part of its innovative broadband service strategy for growth, Telecom Italia recently launched its Cubo Vision device. Commonly known as "Over the Top TV", this multimedia broadband device makes it possible to view digital terrestrial TV channels and leading WebTV content on a home TV, purchase pay-per-view films, and manage personal content such as photos, videos and music offline.
Telecom Italia has asked TI Media to step up its IPTV, Web and Mobile platform consultancy by renewing the above-mentioned contract early. Telecom Italia has also appointed TI Media to assist the Parent company in conceiving and producing content offerings for Cubo Vision. TI Media's remuneration consists of both fixed and variable additional fees. The latter have been agreed on the basis of price metrics that take into account Telecom Italia's commercial growth targets for its IPTV and/or OTTV customer base, and revenues from content access over these platforms. To verify the validity of the agreed prices, the company commissioned a leading consultant to evaluate the pricing scale, which gave a positive opinion. Based on estimates within Telecom Italia's Commercial Plan, these revenues are expected to grow to exceed 20 million euro annually by 2012.
E. Corporate Governance
Following the resignation of Mauro Nanni who has assumed another important position within Telecom Italia Group, the Board of Directors has appointed as CEO the Executive Deputy Chairman Giovanni Stella - granting him all management powers and overall governance of TI Media Group, as well as legal representation of the company - and has co-opted as company director Andrea Mangoni, whose appointment will be submitted to the forthcoming Shareholders' Meeting. Andrea Mangoni's CV is attached with this press release. The Board of Directors and Statutory Board of Auditors warmly thank Mauro Nanni for his highly valuable contribution, professional experience, and the managerial abilities that he brought to the company.
The Board of Directors has verified the suitability of members of the Board as a whole, and found that directors Adriano De Maio, Candido Fois, Lorenzo Gorgoni, Gianfranco Negri Clementi, Alessandro Ovi, Sergio Ristuccia, Fabio Alberto Roversi Monaco, Mario Zanone Poma qualify as independent.
The Board of Directors further noted the appointment of Piero Vigorelli as Chairman of Telecom Italia Media Broadcasting (TIMB), as resolved by the TIMB Board of Directors' meeting of yesterday 24 February 2010.
F. Shareholders' Meeting Called
The Board of Directors has called a Shareholders' Meeting in ordinary and extraordinary session, on first call for 8 April, and on second call on 9 April. In addition to approving the FY 2009 financial statements and the extraordinary share capital operation described above, the shareholders will be invited to reappoint the Board of Statutory Auditors, whose term ends with adoption of the FY 2009 financial statements. The Shareholders' Meeting is also called upon to pass a resolution regarding the revocation of Reconta Ernst & Young's mandate as principle external auditor and the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers as external auditors from 2010 to 2018.
The Manager designate for the preparation of accounting and corporate documents, Paolo Serra, hereby declares, pursuant to paragraph 2, Art.154-bis of the Italian Consolidated Financial Law, that the accounting information contained herein corresponds to the company's documentation, accounting books and records.
The Group's FY 2009 results and its strategic guidelines for the three-year period 2010-2012 will be illustrated to the financial community during a conference call at 3 p.m. (Italian time) on 26 February. Journalists may listen in to the presentation by phone on 800 408 088 (callers from Italy) and +39 06 33 485 042 (International callers). It will also be possible to listen to the presentation again over the following seven days by calling +39 06 334 843 (access code: 280298# for Italian; 179187# for English).
> Appendix
Milan, 25 February 2010


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The skyline forever changed, January 2002
FDNY 343, Never forgotten.
Engine 1, National 9/11 Memorial
FDNY Engine 1, on the 6 Month Anniversary of 9/11
Flight 11 Gate, Logan International Airport
Logan International Airport, July 2012
United 175 Gate at Logan
Flight 93 Memorial at the WTC
Newark Liberty International Airport, Winter 2009
National 9/11 Memorial Reflecting Pool
One World Trade Center, April 2013
One WTC, August 2012
North Tower Reflecting Pool
One WTC, Sunrise 2013
The Lone Bike Messenger
United 175 Memorial at the WTC
The Tribute in Light on the 5th Anniversary of 9/11
The 9/11 Museum at the WTC Site
2010 Tribute in Light Memorial from Jersey City
Album Releases on September 11, 2001
World Trade Construction, Fall 2011
September 2011 Construction at the WTC
The One WTC Spire, Pre Installation April 2013
The Sunrise over Manhattan, March 2013
The Tribute in Light seen in 2012
The Pentagon Memorial, 2013
The Pentagon Memorial, June 2013
Flight 77 Memorial in New York City
Pentagon Memorial benches in Arlington
Michael is a CLIO award winning designer and digital content producer. At Fanbrandz Michael has design and branding background in developing sports and event identities for MLB and the NHL. His digital content has received international exposure and has been featured on the Guardian, Brand New, HOW Design, People Magazine, the Smithsonian Channel, BuzzFeed and CNN.
"Story of a Real-Life New York Ad Man"
"The Day I Met Paul Walker"
"The Rise of One World Trade Center"


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I provide (almost) all of my courses as open content a.k.a. open educational resources. Currently available are these courses:
- Advanced design and programming
- Agile methods and open source (The AMOS Project)
- Free/libre, and open source software
- Nailing your thesis (Performing scientific research)
- Software product management


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Providing high quality customer service and insurance expertise since 1996
As a Bay Area resident for over 20 years, I am proud to serve the people of Danville, CA. We specialize in home, auto, life, and commercial insurance, helping our customers find the insurance that fits their needs!
I founded Allen Insurance in April of 1996 with the goal of providing the best customer care possible. Since then, our agency has insured hundreds of families and businesses, giving them peace of mind through some of life's most difficult moments. We will take the time and care to learn your needs, understand your risks, and educate you on your coverage options.
At my agency, we treat our customers like family. We make sure to consistently review your policy, respond to every phone call and inquiry, and lend a helping hand in times of need!
Our agency is conveniently located on Front Street, in the heart of downtown Danville, so stop by today and say hello!
We welcome our clients to enjoy personal service with a smile. At Allen Insurance, we realize that people do business with those they trust and like. With all our clients, we strive to be both.
185 Front St., Suite 204
Danville, CA 94526
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We know that insuring your vehicle is more than just a basic obligation. It's a vital and legal necessity in your world, and these days, your needs may go well beyond "basic." Our auto insurance comes with quality coverage, convenience, and personalized service far beyond basic. It can cover injuries and damages caused by an accident, if you're legally responsible. Additionally, we deliver the accessibility, convenience, and options you want.
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The Olympic ice skating duo, Rena Inoue and John Baldwin, are engaged, and in the cutest way imaginable. John proposed to Rena on the ice, during a performance at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, in St. Paul, Minnesota. From People:
"John Baldwin didn't win a gold medal at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships this weekend – but he did get the girl.
Moments after he and Rena Inoue, his skating partner of seven years, completed their silver-medal-winning pairs performance Saturday, Baldwin, 34, got down on one knee in the middle of the ice and proposed.
As the crowd of spectators at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minn., read Baldwin's lips on the jumbotron, they began chanting, "Yes! Yes!" But Inoue, for one, stood there dumbfounded.
"I was shocked!" Inoue, 31, tells PEOPLE. "I saw him on one knee and thought he was going to tell me how proud he was – and then he asked me to marry him. Then I started crying and I said yes."
The two began skating together in 2000, after completing the respective singles careers (he skated for the U.S., she for Japan). They competed together at the Torino Olympics (finishing 7th) and have won two national pairs titles.
On Saturday, they finished second to skaters Keauna McLaughlin and Rockne Brubaker – but that hardly seemed to matter to the ecstatic bride-to-be.
"I always thought we would never get married," Inoue said. "He was always saying, 'You can propose to me.' He seemed serious."
What prompted the change of heart? "When I woke up [that] morning, I decided now was the time," Baldwin explained. "We have been together as a couple for five years and everything I have accomplished is because of her. I didn't want to let anyone else have the chance."
In all the rush, Baldwin didn't have time get his fiancée a ring. "Even if I had one, it would have been hard to find a place to hold it on my outfit," he pointed out, adding that he already has something in mind for their wedding bands. "She thinks of me asSnoopy and herself as Woodstock," he explained. "I'll probably do something with that.""
It's rare when a man actually puts thought into what a woman would want, and it's so adorable that John's choosing Peanuts characters. Also, how romantic and sweet is proposing after a performance? The couple look beautiful together on the ice.
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The 5 Things I Learned Last Year In Europe And How I'm Applying Them To This Year's Trip
Last year I went on a pretty crazy trip – hitting five different countries across Europe over about two weeks, and then following that up by meeting my girlfriend in New York City for a few more days. As if I wasn't exhausted enough from pulling six all nighters in 14 nights while rolling through Europe solo-dolo.
Not long after I got back from that trip, I penned this article, in which I listed 5 things that I took away from the trip. They were:
1.) The creative juices are on crack while traveling.
2.) America is breaching all other cultures.
3.) Solo travel can potentially be lonely.
4.) I fucked up by seeing so many countries in so little time.
5.) Post vacation hangover sucks.
Making notes on things to improve on doesn't mean squat if you don't follow through on it, so here's what I'm doing differently this time around. To understand this post in it's entirety, you'll want to go back and read the entire previous post.
1.) The creative juices are on crack while traveling.
Last year, I wrote:
Once I was relieved of my usual cubicle duties, my mind was freed. It is difficult to explain how exactly these floodgates open up so drastically, but I was amazed at how much deeper my thoughts were once I had stepped away from work for a few days. I would say it took about three days of freedom, as well as a fair amount of drinking, admittedly, and all of a sudden ideas began coming.
Last time, I made the mistake of waiting until I got home to write everything down. I went on hiatus for the entire time, didn't touch writing, and then struggled to think back through all of the booze filled all nighters and put it on to paper. Of course, I didn't even have a personal laptop at the time, but this time I do and I have no excuse not to be taking a half an hour of each day to write something up. I plan on keeping a running journal of everyday, detailing the highs and lows of the days and nights.
I'll have my buddy Jeremy there to keep me accountable and make sure I write something every day. Who knows, maybe he'll actually start blogging again as we go on the trip.
2.) America is breaching all other cultures.
Last year, I wrote:
I suspected that Poland and the Czech Republic would be the biggest culture shock to me. I suspected London, Barcelona, and Rome to be relatively Westernized. However, even in "poor" countries like Poland (one girls reaction as I nearly ripped apart a 10 PLN bill was priceless), the American way of life is spreading fast. Smartphones are common. McDonald's and Kentucky Fried Chicken are everywhere, and you'll be hard pressed to find a coffee shop more popular than that garbage chain Starbucks.
I was picky as fuck about where I was going on this trip. My buddy who was originally going with me wanted to hit some of the Baltic countries – but I was pretty much dead set on Budapest or Istanbul. No desire on my end to visit countries that are supposedly more Westernized with high(er) prices.
This is exactly why we're going pretty far east and not even touching any of the Western European countries. I've already seen London, which was way too much America for me – with worse weather and more history. I already live in a great part of America, the last thing I want to do when I go on vacation is to visit another version of the culture here.
Budapest is a place that seems to fly under most people's radar, so I have high hopes that the European lifestyle that I loved in Poland (and to a lesser extent, Prague) will hold true in the capitol of Hungary.
3.) Solo travel can potentially be lonely.
Last year, I wrote:
I had by far the most fun in Poland, when I had a great wingman with me (Lucky Lothario), and in New York City with my girlfriend. Traveling solo can get lonely, especially during the day. While I met other tourists every day, and made friends at night, the amount of energy it took to get myself into a social mood constantly was draining. By the end of the trip, I had almost nothing left in the tank to go out and meet people. I nearly fell asleep in a bar in Prague at about 9:30pm on one of my final nights.
I regret nothing about my trip last year. Going solo was a fantastic experience, in many ways. But the best parts of the trip involved meeting Lucky in Poland and my girlfriend in New York City. Simply getting the motivation to go out at night and get the social juices going was a lot of work. Add in all of the all nighters, multiple 6am departure flights, and general travel exhaustion – I was running on fumes.
I'm pumped that I'll have a social guy like Jeremy to roll out with at night.
4.) I fucked up by seeing so many countries in so little time.
Last year, I wrote:
Five countries in the amount of time I had is simply way too much. It is hard to account for travel time for airlines and public transit to city centers, in many cases what was supposed to be three days in a city turned into two due to being delayed. I knew going in that I was really going to be pushing the limit, and I learned my lesson.
I wanted to see Poland because I'd heard so many good things. I needed to see London with the possibility of moving there for work. I had heard Barcelona's nightlife was legendary (quite the contrary, I found it to be a bit of a disgusting shit hole). I have always loved Roman history, so I wanted to sight-see there. I'd heard Prague was a gorgeous city with a lot of gorgeous girls (truth).
Yeah, I'd never do that again.
This time, I'm sticking to one place for all ten days. We're tentatively planning on doing a day trip to Vienna, which is $20 and only a three hour train ride away. Other than that, we'll be sticking around in Budapest. By the end of the ten days, I think we'll have a real good grasp on the life there, which is something I never got to experience last year.
Other than Poland, where there wasn't that much sightseeing to do, I spent more time in the other four countries doing the "tourism" activities that left me drained to go out at night. Yeah, there was a night in London that I had to wander home at 4am, and another in Barcelona where I gave up after a sausagefest – but I went to sleep early on more days than I'd care to admit.
I'm sure we'll do plenty of wandering and sightseeing, but it'll mostly be local, allowing us to enjoy the nightlife to it's full extent.
I am really intrigued by getting to fire some old school WWII weapons though…
5.) Post vacation hangover sucks.
Last year, I wrote:
The materialistic items pale in comparison to the experiences and memories of this trip that will stick with me for years to come. When I'm lying on my deathbed, it won't be my 401k bringing me happiness; it will be my memories of the world; and the people and cultures within it.
No getting around this. It'll hit Jeremy worse than me, and at least I'll have someone who made all the memories with me who can relate.
This time around, I'm closer to being location independent due to Cracking OKCupid and other endeavors, so hopefully I'll shrug the hangover off faster than last year.
I can't wait to share the adventure with all of you loyal readers.
Click here for a free OKCupid profile review, too.


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Citizen Science and Habitat Restoration
FNPS members across the state bring expertise for a broad array conservation projects:
- seed collection for restoration projects
- propagation of plants for restoration projects
- monitoring of plant populations
- native plant surveys and floristic inventories
- invasive plant species removal
- prescribed fire
- plant rescues from sites slated for development
Our partners include Florida State Parks, Florida Water Management Districts, Florida Forest Service, Orlando International Airport, county and city parks, local nature preserves, private landowners, Peninsular Florida Landscape Conservation Cooperative, Florida Wildflower Foundation, Florida Association of Native Nurseries, and many more.
Restoration Projects
Beginning in January 2018, major restoration projects began at a number of public properties. The plants and seeds were all collected in our emergency Sandhill rescue from a nearby development site. Nearly 1,000 of the rescued Sandhill plants were introcucted at Lake Louisa State Park and several…Read More >>
Land Acquisition and Preservation Project
The Longleaf pine ecosystem once encompassed 90 million acres and spread from Texas to the Carolinas. Despite being reduced to fewer than 3 million acres, the remaining lands still contain some of the most diverse plant and animal communities in the world. The Florida Native Plant Society…Read More >>
TorreyaKeepers Project
The Florida Panhandle is home to the most endangered conifer in North America: Florida Torreya (Torreya taxifolia). The Florida Torreya is a Federally Endangered tree that only occurs in the ravines east of the Apalachicola River in Liberty and Gadsden counties. Unfortunately, this area…Read More >>
Rare Species Mapping Project
We are documenting occurrences of Florida's rare plant species throughout the state, especially those in the path of development or that are located within road right-of-ways and utility easements. This is important because many companies and contractors have begun using herbicide in place of…Read More >>
Milkweed Mapping Project
Under the leadership of FNPS Conservation Committee member Scott Davis, we are documenting occurrences of Florida's native milkweed (Asclepias) species throughout the state. Many of our milkweed species are important hosts for monarch butterflies. Mr. Davis has documented 21 native milkweed…Read More >>
Projects by Region
The FNPS Conservation Committee and members throughout the state are working to restore our public lands and conserve the genetic diversity in our native plant populations. This work benefits people and all living organisms that depend on our native plants, plant communities and Florida's natural lands for survival.
North Florida
Wolf Creen Trout Lily Preserve On the second Tuesday of each month, a volunteer group from the Magnolia Chapter works at Wolf Creek Trout Lily Preserve to remove invasive plants, including privet, Japanese climbing fern, Japanese honeysuckle, and Nandina. This 140 acre property in Grady County, Georgia…Read More >>
Central Florida
Sandhill Habitat Restoration Our members are working on numerous Sandhill habitat restoration projects with our partners throughout central Florida. Projects are located at Lake Louisa State Park, St. John's River Water Management District, Oakland Nature Preserve, Mead Gardens, Lake County Parks…Read More >>
South Florida
South Florida Rare Species Conservation Partnerships Much of our focus in south Florida is on critically endangered plant communities such as Pine Rocklands and Scrub. Because so many of the lands supporting these plant communities have been lost to development, many of the plant species native to these…Read More >>


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Seattle Mariners
John McGrath's Major League Baseball rankings
1. Oakland Athletics (1): Baseball Prospectus estimates Oakland's playoff odds to be 99.7 percent. So they're saying the A's have a chance.
2. Los Angeles Angels (4): Garrett Richards (11-2, 2.55 ERA, holding hitters to a .196 batting average) is an All-Star-caliber starter without an All-Star invitation.
3. Detroit Tigers (3): Streaky Tigers could be a nightmare to face in a best-of-five division series.
4. Los Angeles Dodgers (6): Outfielder Carl Crawford OK with reduced role after return from disabled list.
5. Milwaukee Brewers (2): Crew's huff-and-puff approach to break has turned NL Central into four-team race with Cards, Reds and Bucs.
6. Baltimore Orioles (9): Winning two of three in Beltway Series against red-hot Nats was a statement.
7. Washington Nationals (8): Will Bryce Harper ever come halfway close to living up to his ridiculous hype?
8. Atlanta Braves (7): Aaron Harang, former M's punching bag, has allowed two earned runs or fewer in 14 of 19 starts.
9. St. Louis Cardinals (12): All-Star catcher Yadier Molina, who could miss the rest of season with a torn thumb ligament, is as close to irreplaceable as anybody on Cards.
10. San Francisco Giants (10): Nobody needs midsummer break more than Giants.
11. Seattle Mariners (5): University of North Carolina product Kyle Seager is M's first home-grown All-Star drafted out of a four-year college program since Tino Martinez in 1995.
12. Cincinnati Reds (15): Just as Reds appeared primed for second-half run, they learned Brandon Phillips would be joining Joey Votto on the DL.
13. Kansas City Royals (13): Raul Ibañez, 42, last week became oldest Royals player to hit a home run.
14. Pittsburgh Pirates (14): Switch-hitting second baseman Neil Walker has settled in as Bucs' cleanup hitter.
15. Toronto Blue Jays (11): Jays' injury epidemic might have them interested in Rainiers' infielder/outfielder Nick Franklin.
16. New York Yankees (16): Masahiro Tanaka's right-elbow injury worst news yet for a rotation rocked by injuries to CC Sabathia, Michael Pineda and Ivan Nova.
17. Cleveland Indians (17): Lonnie Chisenhall finally has accrued enough plate appearances to qualify for the batting title.
18. Miami Marlins (18): Third baseman Casey McGehee, who began the weekend hitting .320, with 53 RBIs, denied a deserving All-Star invitation.
19. Chicago White Sox (19): Carlos Rodon, the Sox's first-round pick from N.C. State, figures to join a 2015 rotation featuring fellow lefties Chris Sale, Jose Quintana and John Danks.
20. Minnesota Twins (25): Any chance they were fired up by the Mariners' decision to swap Felix Hernandez's Thursday start for a "big-series" game Friday against the A's?
21. New York Mets (22): Shaggy-locked right-hander Jacob deGrom looking like hair-apparent to the Giants' Tim Lincecum.
22. Philadelphia Phillies (23): Four-game road sweep of Brewers evidence that Phils still have a pulse.
23. San Diego Padres (26): Padres have interviewed seven candidates to fill GM vacancy, with no clear front-runner.
24. Tampa Bay Rays (27): Weekend series vs. Toronto looking like a line-in-the-sand juncture for down-but-not-quite-out, Rays.
25. Boston Red Sox (21): A.J. Pierzynski earned his DFA: The subpar defensive catcher was an indiscriminate hacker at the plate and an indifferent teammate in the dugout.
26. Arizona Diamondbacks (29): Outfielder David Peralta, fast-tracked from Double-A on June 1, emerging as a Rookie of the Year candidate.
27. Chicago Cubs (20): Fans got a glimpse of the future with the MLB debut of 22-year old second baseman Arismendy Alcantara. More to come.
28. Houston Astros (30): Sweep of Rangers finally liberated Lastros from fifth place.
29. Texas Rangers (24): You know the wheels are off the track when Yu Darvish is torched by Houston.
30. Colorado Rockies (28): Ex-Clemson quarterback Kyle Parker, a former college rival and minor league teammate of Russell Wilson, picked up his first big league hit Wednesday.


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SHOP NOW—free delivery anywhere in Australia
In the aftermath of the first war in Iraq, Theo Griepenkerl is visiting the looted museum of Mosul when a bomb explodes outside the building. As Theo seeks shelter, he stumbles across the discovery of a lifetime: nine papyrus scrolls that have lain hidden for two thousand years.Theo believes that he has found the fifth gospel, and its significance is extraordinary. It offers a shocking new account of the last days of Christ, calling into question the conventional narrative of events. As Theo sets out to share his discovery with the world, he can scarcely imagine where his journey will take him, and the trials and dangers that lie ahead.
The Fire Gospel is on one level a hugely entertaining tale. At its heart lies a profound and powerful message about the power of words to resonate across centuries. As an indictment of fundamentalism, it is as controversial and provocative as The Last Temptation of Christ. It is a revelatory piece of storytelling.


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Australia's money laundering watchdog, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre — AUSTRAC — will be boosting its IT systems using funding included in the $630 million counter-terrorism package announced by the government.
The government announced last week that AUSTRAC would receive $20 million in funding from the package. The funding will be used "to improve detection and disruption of terrorism financing", an AUSTRAC spokesperson said.
The organisation will use the funding to establish a new national intelligence team.
The government said AUSTRAC will work with security agencies to prevent Australians who are fighting overseas from receiving financial support, monitor financial activity related to overseas conflict 'hot spots' and "identify opportunities to disrupt attempts to undertake terrorism".
Earlier this week AUSTRAC took action to suspend the registration of Sydney based remittance provider Bisotel Rieh Pty Ltd because of the "risk the entity poses in relation to terrorism financing", federal justice minister Michael Keenan announced.
"AUSTRAC welcomes the opportunities provided through this funding to enhance its ongoing cooperation with law enforcement and intelligence agencies in identifying and combatting terrorism financing," the AUSTRAC spokesperson said.
"A portion of the new funding will be used to implement new data capture and enhancements systems. This will enhance and complement other IT systems designed to monitor financial transactions."
Coinciding with the funding announcement, AUSTRAC released a report (PDF) based on a on a classified national risk assessment of the "Australian terrorism financing environment".
AUSTRAC worked with a number of partner agencies including the Australian Federal Police to produce Terrorism financing in Australia 2014, which identified three key features of the terrorism financing environment.
Terrorism financing "is largely motivated by international tensions and conflicts", the report states, "conduit" countries are often used for transmitting funds on the way to their ultimate destination, and funds are often commingled with "legitimate" funds, such as donations to charities.
AUSTRAC's report also identified online payments and digital currencies as an "emerging terrorism financing risk".
"Many of these systems can be accessed globally and used to transfer funds quickly," the report states.
"A number of online payment systems and digital currencies are also anonymous by design, making them attractive for terrorist financing, particularly when the payment system is based in a jurisdiction with a comparatively weaker AML/CTF [anti-money laundering/counter-terrorism financing] regime."
However, "traditional financial channels" such as the banking and remittance sectors are still more likely to be used in terrorism financing, AUSTRAC's spokesperson said.
The organisation has previously indicated it considered digital currencies as being an emerging avenue for money laundering.
"Use of online payment systems and digital currencies for illicit purposes, including terrorism financing, is likely to increase as overall use of these systems grows," the spokesperson said.
"Online payment systems and digital currencies are at greatest risk of being used to solicit donations by extremist groups engaged in radicalisation, recruitment and communication online, especially through social media.
"There are also factors that limit the attractiveness of online payment systems and digital currencies for terrorism financing. Funds held in digital currencies often need to be converted to a mainstream global currency before they can be used, which provides opportunities for authorities to detect illicit activity.
"In conflict regions such as Syria and Iraq, it may be more difficult to convert funds held electronically into a readily useable format (such as cash) which will limit use of these products."
Asked whether AUSTRAC had specific programs to track the use of digital currencies such as Bitcoin, the spokesperson said the organisation "can track the use of digital currencies and other online payment systems where this activity intersects with the regulated financial sector."
"This has provided important intelligence leads to AUSTRAC's partner agencies in criminal investigations," the spokesperson said.
Follow Rohan on Twitter: @rohan_p


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To kick off wedding season at The Center, we're sharing a helpful tip to make sure your wedding day goes off without a hitch. Bridesmaids, listen up! With the emotions of the big day and the forgetfulness of those lovely groomsmen, the wedding day survival kit will most likely fall under your responsibility. We are here to help with the planning so you won't forget a thing.
|Additional Suggestions:
What are some of the essentials for your wedding day survival kit?


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C++11 introduces the concept of range-based for loop to iterate over data structures such as STL containers:
vector<int> aVector {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}; for (auto i : aVector) { cout << i << " "; }
Thanks to lambda expressions, the code above may be considered just a syntactical simplification to:
for_each( begin(aVector), end(aVector), [](int i) { cout << i << " "; });
Looking at this code, how is it possible to iterate over more than one container at the same time? I mean something like this:
list<float> aList {6.1, 7.2, 8.3, 9.4, 10.5}; for_each( aVector, aList, [](int i, float f) { cout << i << " " << f << endl; });
We could use smart libraries such as Boost.Fusion to achieve similar results, but suppose we cannot use anything but C++11 capabilities.
Here I'm going to show you a possbile way to iterate over several ranges with the same syntax of for_each. Along the way, some reusable utilities will be presented.
To start, this is the simplest implementation of for_each you can find:
template<typename InputIterator, typename Callable> Callable for_each(InputIterator begin, InputIterator end, Callable fn) { for( ; begin != end; ++begin) { fn (*begin); } return fn; }
My idea is to employ a couple of tuples: the first containing all the begin-InputIterators, the second containing all the end-InputIterators. For instance:
vector<int> aVector; list<float> aList; map<string, int> aMap; auto begins = make_tuple(begin(aVector), begin(aList), begin(aMap)); auto ends = make_tuple(end(aVector), end(aList), end(aMap)); // i-th range: [get<i>(begins), get<i>(ends)]
So, for_each_multi has the following signature:
template<typename Tuple, typename Callable> Callable for_each_multi(Tuple begins, Tuple ends, Callable fn);
Considering the simplest for_each implementation, we need three basic building bricks:
- check that begin != end (for each [begin, end] range)
- ++begin (for each begin)
- fn (*begin) (simultaneously for each begin)
Good news: 1 and 2 fall in the same support function that I called visit_tuple. This is just an "apply to all" for tuples that applies a function to each element of a tuple. Generalizing, visit_tuple receives any number N of tuples and a callable object having a function call operator which accepts N parameters.
For example, if we call visit_tuple with one tuple, the function call operator will be required to be single-argument; otherwise, passing two tuples, a two-arguments function call operator will be needed, etc.
My implementation is a bit verbose but I find it more readable. visit_tuple uses a support struct that makes the recursion and goes through each element of the tuple(s):
// visit_tuple template<typename Callable, typename Head, typename... Tail> Callable visit_tuple(Callable f, Head&& aTuple, Tail&& ...aTail) { const size_t size = std::tuple_size<typename std::remove_reference<Head>::type>::value-1; visit_tuple_ws<size>::visit(f, aTuple, aTail...); return f; } // support struct to iterate over the tuple(s) template<size_t size> struct visit_tuple_ws { template<typename Callable, typename Head, typename... Tail> static void visit(Callable& f, Head& aTuple, Tail& ...aTail) { visit_tuple_ws<size-1>::visit(f, aTuple, aTail...); f(std::get<size>(aTuple), std::get<size>(aTail)...); } }; // stop recursion here template<> struct visit_tuple_ws<0u> { template<typename Callable, typename Head, typename... Tail> static void visit(Callable& f, Head& aTuple, Tail& ...aTail) { f(std::get<0>(aTuple), std::get<0>(aTail)...); } };
I know there are several ways to make this code less verbose (maybe the support struct can be eliminated), I repeat this style may be more readable in some contexts.
Just for trying, printing a tuple is probably the easiest usage of this function. The code is straightforward:
struct Printer { // generic function call operator template<typename T> void operator()(T&& t) { cout << t << " "; } }; // print! visit_tuple( Printer(), make_tuple(1, 5.0, "Hello") );
Being first-class objects, functors can be passed to and returned from functions (maintaing a state). Let's write a simple functor that checks begin != end:
struct CheckBeginEnd { CheckBeginEnd() : BeginIsNotEnd(true) {} template<typename T> void operator()(T&& begin, T&& end) { BeginIsNotEnd &= (begin != end); } bool BeginIsNotEnd; };
Incrementing is even simpler:
struct Increment { template <typename T> void operator()(T&& t) { ++t; } };
So we completed the first part of for_each_multi:
// for_each_multi template<typename Tuple, typename Callable> Callable for_each_multi(Tuple begins, Tuple ends, Callable fn) { for ( ; visit_tuple(CheckBeginEnd(), begins, ends).BeginIsNotEnd; visit_tuple(Increment(), begins) ) {...apply...} return fn; }
The "apply" part of the algorithm is a bit more difficult because it requires tuple unpacking. The problem is general and the solution I propose can be reused. Unpacking is presented below:
Basically, given a function Fn and a tuple, an unpacker is able to call Fn passing the content of the tuple as parameters.
Our case is slightly different because we need to dereference each parameter before passing it to Fn. This fact encouraged me to be more generic, as you're going to discover.
So, is it clear why we need unpacking? If no, suppose to have these ranges and this lambda:
auto begins = make_tuple(begin(aVector), begin(aList)); auto ends = make_tuple(end(aVector), end(aList)); auto fn = [](int anInt, float aFloat) { ... }
At some point we'll have to call something like:
fn ( get<0>(begins), get<1>(begins) )
We need to call fn using begins' content as parameter. Generalizing:
auto begins = make_tuple(begin(aVector), begin(aList), ...); auto ends = make_tuple(end(aVector), end(aList), ...); auto fn = [](int anInt, float aFloat, ...) { ... } ... fn ( get<0>(begins), get<1>(begins), ..., get<size-1>(begins) )
And this is precisely the unpacker job!
To Write an unpacker, the role of variadics is pivotal. Consider what this trivial piece of code does:
template<size_t S, typename T> void apply_one_element(T&& aTuple) { my_function( std::get<S>(aTuple) ); }
Calls my_function passing the S-th element of aTuple as parameter. This can be generalized to:
template<size_t ...S, typename T> void apply_more_element(T&& aTuple) { my_function( std::get<S>(aTuple) ... ); } apply_more_element<0u, 1u, 2u> ( make_tuple(1, 2.0, "hello") );
The last line could be considered expanded to:
template<0u, 1u, 2u, typename T> void apply_more_element(T&& aTuple) { my_function( std::get<0u>(aTuple), std::get<1u>(aTuple), std::get<2u>(aTuple) ); }
If it was (sort of) automatic, it would be exactly what we need: we want a way to generate the size_t sequence from 0 to tuple_size – 1.
This can be done using a couple of support types: one that carries the sequence around and another one that generates it. The former is simple:
template<size_t ...> struct sequence {};
So a possible unpacker may be written like:
struct Unpack { template< typename Callable, typename Tuple, size_t ...S > static void unpackAndApply(Tuple&& tuple, Callable& fn, sequence<S...> ) { fn(std::get<S>(tuple) ...); } };
sequence<S…> is used just to carry around the size_t sequence. Now, the harder part. How to generate sequence<S…>? For example: given tuple<int, float, string>, we want to create sequence<0, 1, 2>.
A possible implementation is:
template<size_t N, size_t ...S> struct generate : generate<N-1u, N-1u, S...> {}; template<size_t ...S> struct generate<0u, S...> { typedef sequence<S...> type; };
Considering N=3, I hope the idea will become clearer through this figure:
If you have understood the transition from generate<2,2> to generate<1,1,2> then you have won!
The last part of for_each_multi consists of the apply_tuple function:
// apply_tuple template<typename Unpacker, typename Tuple, typename Callable> void apply_tuple(Tuple&& tuple, Callable&& fn) { const int size = std::tuple_size<typename std::remove_reference<Tuple>::type>::value; Unpacker::apply( std::forward<Tuple>(tuple), std::forward<Callable>(fn), typename generate<size>::type() ); }
The Unpacker template parameter is just a sort of policy that handles how the parameters are passed to the callable object. In our case, we have to implement a sort of "dereferencer unpacker":
struct Dereference { template< typename Callable, typename Tuple, size_t ...S > static void apply(Tuple&& tuple, Callable& fn, sequence<S...> ) { fn(*std::get<S>(tuple) ...); // aka fn(*it) } };
And finally for_each_multi takes this form:
// for_each_multi template<typename Tuple, typename Callable> Callable for_each_multi(Tuple begins, Tuple ends, Callable fn) { for ( ; visit_tuple(CheckBeginEnd(), begins, ends).BeginIsNotEnd; visit_tuple(Increment(), begins) ) { apply_tuple<Dereference>(begins, fn); } return fn; }
An example of usage:
vector<int> aVector {1, 2, 3, 4}; array<string, 4> anArray("one", "two", "three", "four"); for_each_multi( make_tuple(begin(aVector), begin(anArray), make_tuple(end(aVector), end(anArray), [](int i, const string& s) { cout << i << " is " << s << endl; } );
To reduce verbiage, if you need to iterate over full ranges (e.g. begin-end) , I propose a couple of possible utilities:
// begins tuple template<typename Head, typename ...Tail> auto begins(Head&& head, Tail&& ...tail) -> decltype(make_tuple(begin(head), begin(tail)...)) { return make_tuple(begin(head), begin(tail)...); } // ends tuple template<typename Head, typename ...Tail> auto ends(Head&& head, Tail&& ...tail) -> decltype(make_tuple(end(head), end(tail)...)) { return make_tuple(end(head), end(tail)...); }
Followed by:
#define ON(...) begins(__VA_ARGS__), ends(__VA_ARGS__)
Now we can write:
for_each_multi( ON(aVector, anArray), [](int i, const string& s) { cout << i << " is " << s << endl; } );
Without adding any support functions nor macros, another version (that I like a bit less because you have to put the callable before the containers) could be:
template<typename Callable, typename Head, typename... Tail> Callable for_each_multi(Callable fn, Head&& head, Tail&& ...tail) { return for_each_multi( std::make_tuple(begin(head), begin(tail)...), std::make_tuple(end(head), end(tail)...), fn); } ... for_each_multi([](int i, const string& s) { cout << i << " is " << s << endl; }, aVector, anArray);
As usual, my code is on ideone (just a note: begin/end non-members are not supported so I had to use .begin()/.end() member-functions).
It's presumable the existence of other smarter (and shorter) ways to accomplish the same target, but I hope this post can be useful to play a bit with tuples and variadics. At least I enjoyed a lot writing this stuff!


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How to build a travel industry giant in 3 years: 8 lessons from GetYourGuide
GetYourGuide recently signed for 'the biggest Series A round in Europe': a very sizable $ 14 million. In barely 3 years time, the online platform for booking guided tours became a bona fide travel industry giant, doing more than $ 10 million in revenue in 2012 and offering 18100 things to do at 1780 destinations worldwide. This week, it launched a French, Spanish and Italian site.
GetYourGuide followed a trajectory of pure growth, and it's not letting up, says CEO Johannes Reck in an interview with Whiteboard. "We're still in hypergrowth mode".
The story starts in 2008, when five students from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zürich launched a peer-to-peer platform where students could sell guided tours around the city where they lived. Anyone could host an activity and other people could book these activities. In a word, they started Gidsy (or Viable). Only it was called GetYourGuide, and it didn't work very well, says Johannes Reck, one of the founders.
"We had tremendous difficulty scaling it. The web was also a lot less open than it is today. It was 2008: the social networks like Facebook and Twitter weren't as strong in Europe as they are now. We just couldn't make it work."
1. When the market gives you lemons, make lemonade
But GetYourGuide noticed another thing: a gigantic gap in the market of attractions, activities and sightseeing. "Professional vendors of activities were not very well equipped when it came to reservations – they didn't have proper reservation systems, and they had no booking capabilities."
"So what we did: we took our extranet – the peer-to-peer marketplace – and upgraded it to a fully fledged reservation system where these vendors could upload their content and manage everything: from availability to pricing. And next, we built a B2C platform on top of it. We released it in January 2010, and it took off very quickly."
2. Don't scale before you have a proof of concept
"Our entire first year we survived with a team of five on less than 200k. We ate ramen soup every day. We didn't have much money for advertising, so we just rolled up our sleeves and started selling to these merchants. We did the sales, the business development, the engineering, everything. It was real bootstrapping, and it came very natural – you have to if you don't have a big name or reputation. Also, I think it's good to start out this way, because there's still so much about the product to figure out. If you start to spend before you have a real proof of concept, it will kill you."
3. Push the flywheel until it begins to turn by itself
The point that they wanted to reach early on was 30 bookings per day, says Reck. "To reach that point, we sold to a lot of small merchants, and really listened to them. We still have a close bond with them, we invite them to office parties. We knew that that relationship was crucial, so we invested a lot in it. There's a theory that says if you reach a 1000 fans of the product – in our case: suppliers – then a viral loop kicks in. And that's what happened actually. So what you need to do, is push that flywheel every day, until one day, it begins to turn by itself. It's very hard work, but it was critical to our success."
4. "Don't dream about scale. Instead, draw a clear path to profitability"
All that first year of ramen soup, the founders of GetYourGuide had a simple target: to get to those thirty bookings per day. "As a founder, you should have a very clear feeling for the unit economics of your product and your margins. You should draw a clear path towards profitability, a path that is realistic and that you feel good about."
"The myth in the startup world is all about scale. But I'm not a big beleiver in that. I believe in a real business: this is how we will make money. It's no use dreaming about a big company: dream about reaching that first milestone. When we got to a point where we could all afford our ramen soup every day, we started thinking: okay, and what if we would like to go to a restaurant once in a while (laughs)."
5. Focus on the channels that drive conversion
Asked if there was a big breakthrough moment, Reck says no, there wasn't. "An e-commerce platform is different from social or consumer applications. They seldom have a lot of virality, but you have to focus on the channels that drive conversions. We always focused on the conversion rate. So there wasn't a single moment, but rather a lot of different instances, where we tweaked small things that made us better at converting users. Things like restructuring the product detail page, testing things, moving to agile development. So many things made a difference that it's hard to point to just one."
"What we did evolve to, was agile development, with very fast iterations. We're now 80 people, but we try to have every team iterate fast and learn very fast."
6. Learn people management and hire slow
Reck says that managing these 80 people is probably the biggest challenge of the company at this time. "It's very difficult, especially because we have three offices – in Zürich, Berlin and Las Vegas, which adds to the complexity. So as a founder, you have to learn quite a bit about people management. But that's also part of the fun, right? It's part of the learning curve. And I personally think that startups make or break it with their team. So over time, we realised the importance of hiring only very good people, and executed against that. You have to build a great culture, with A players who really love their job."
"And we keep looking for good team members. Recently, someone from Orbit joined our team. This calibre of people get trashed with job offers every day. Someone who's a project manager at Google is tied up in very, very lucrative contracts. So you have to wait for the right moment to recruit. And take your time. I think every one of our top hires is the result of a relationship that we fostered for six months to two years. And it never started with the question: do you want to work here. Rather, it's: do you have some input on this or that?"
The same goes for the board of directors. GetYourGuide managed to attract board members from big names in the industry like Booking.com and Kayak. "We have some of the best people in the industry. I think they are attracted to three things: the notion that the market for this is big and exciting. I mean: we could be the next billion dollar company. Second: we have a great team. That's what people look at: does this team of management and c-level have a shot at this opportunity?"
7. Solving a chicken-and-egg problem is hard, but very, very good business
When asked whether he thinks GetYourGuide is in such great shape because it profited from a first mover advantage, Reck says not quite. "We were first in that market, which helped, but it's not our main competitive edge. We have the advantage of a marketplace, and that's even stronger. The difficulty of establishing a marketplace is that you need both supply and demand. If you have too much supply but no demand, people go elsewhere. And the other way around too."
"But when you manage to grow a real marketplace, you have tremendous lockin. Because suppliers will choose the marketplace with the most customers, and customers will go to the place with the best prices and the most choice. Any competitor has to work against marketplace mechanics, and you can't suddenly drum up a lot of demand. It's very, very tough to compete. Take Ebay: I think they've done a shitty job lately, but no one can gain market share against them – because they own the marketplace."
8. Don't think of an exit
Looking at the board of GetYourGuide, you might get the impression that it's already working towards an acquisition by a big player like Kayak, or Booking.com, or any other. But here's some advice, says Reck: don't think about that stuff. "Of course, you have to follow a strategy and investors will want a multiple at some point. But I focus on building a great company that scales, which in e-commerce means: build massive revenue."
"You will find someone to acquire you or if you're big enough, you can IPO. But building for an acquisition seems like a recipe for disaster to me. Because you'll shape your company with that in mind, and you become dependent on a few players. I spend very little time thinking about who acquires us. Instead, I think about growing the top and bottom line." It's not the kind of growth that apps show, he says – we don't necessarily grow in users much, but in revenues. "We still more than double revenue every year." (**)
In 2012, GetYourGuide pulled in $ 10 million in revenue, he says. The $ 14 million Series A round will be used to "go aggressively to a number of markets and improve the product." Meanwhile, he says: "We continue to feel the traction. I can't tell you the number, but it's still hypergrowth."
*updated to correct a typo: an earlier version said GetYourGuide launched in 'January 2012′ instead of 2010.
** updated for clarity: earlier version said 'We're beyond stuff like doubling revenues'
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Marks and Spencer celebrated its one millionth Facebook fan by supporting the Cannock-based group.
Nationally-active Newlife is currently working with the families of 25 children in the West Midlands, with equipment needs of £46,165.
With its Thanks A Million initiative, Marks and Spencer is inviting every one of its Facebook followers to help the retailer donate a million M&S pennies to charity.
To find out more about the promotion, go to: http://bit.ly/ThanksaMill.
At the end of Thanks A Million, M&S will double the total donation – to £20,000.
If you are an M&S Facebook fan and would like to help a disabled child, please donate to Newlife. If you are not already a fan but want to support the charity, 'like' M&S to get involved.
Newlife supports disabled and terminally ill children – and their families – all across the UK. It operates a national Nurse Helpline – 0800 902 0095 – funds over £1 million of essential disability aids each year and offers an emergency equipment loan service to end-of-life children.
To date, Newlife has funded 493 items of equipment for children in the West Midlands, at a cost of £655,795.
To find out more, go to www.newlifecharity.co.uk


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Arts for the Community at Thomas University's mission is to combine the gifts and energies of Thomas University personnel and students (Act One) with those of community members (Act Two) to provide excellent arts events for the community. For more information, please call 229-227-6964 or email firstname.lastname@example.com
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What is the Pectus Brace?
Also known as a Chest Compressor, the pectus brace is used to treat pectus carinatum, a disorder when the sternum (breastbone) is pushed outward. The Chest Compressor produces intracavitary pressure, anterior extends from three inches superior to pectus prominence to three inches inferior to pectus prominence, has rigid circumferential frame with rigid pads, anteriorly and posteriorly, and is custom fabricated and molded to patient model. If worn correctly, significant correction of deformity can be expected.
Wearing Protocol
The brace is to be worn at all times. The brace should be worn during the day, during physical activity as well as to bed. The more the child the wears the brace, the better effect it will have. The device is easily hidden under clothing and must be worn over a T-shirt. The average time required for the patient to wear the brace is about one year.
Casting Procedure
This is a custom brace that requires a cast of the affected area circumferentially. A fiberglass wrap extends from just below the sterna notch to 3" below xiphoid.
The cost of the pectus brace ranges from $800-$1,000. Please check with your insurance carrier or ask our office staff to contact your insurance company to see if this brace is a covered benefit.


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Following in the footsteps of David Koma and William Tempest, London designer Eudon Choi has been chosen as this year's winner of the Vauxhall Fashion Scout Merit Award.
Choi, who wowed the fashion crowd back in February when he showed as part of Vauxhall Fashion Scout's Ones To Watch Show, will now get his very own, fully sponsored fashion show during London Fashion Week come September.
The Royal College of Art graduate had his graduate collection snapped up by Dover Street Market, then headed off to become head designer at Twenty8Twelve. He launched his eponymous label back in 2007 and, judging by the buzz around his name right now, we don't think it will be long before he's a permanent fixture on the London Fashion Week schedule.


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- Designing public spaces using Minecraft brings refugees and local communities...
- UN Habitat Commits to Implementing the Global Compact on Migration
- Residents, diplomats and UN-Habitat staff join hands to clean up Nairobi
- UN-Habitat Executive Director unveils Youth Declar-Action at the Sustainable...
- Blue economy forum will boost water's potential
- Op-Ed By Maimunah Mohd Sharif on Sustainable Blue Economy Conference
- UN-Habitat leads Africities session on effective local government planning for...
- Chinese Cities Improving in Global Competitiveness
- Resilient cities, a matter of planning for and with children
- UN-Habitat Executive Director: World Cities Day Message
Competências chave para melhorar a governança local , Volume 2
Now more than ever, local governments are at the forefront of responding to growing social, economic and environmental challenges. In response to this changing context, local elected officials need to be knowledgeable about an increasingly complex set of interrelated issues. They must also develop competencies including decision making, communication, enabling, facilitating, overseeing and empowering, to effectively perform their political leadership and representation roles. Capable local leaders can greatly contribute to improved local governance
The Local Elected Leadership (LEL) series presents two roles and ten competencies essential for every elected official to effectively perform their job when serving local communities. The series contains many training exercises and tools that can be used as practical on-the-job guide long after the leadership training workshop has ended.
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Cover&Layout takes your book from manuscript to fully designed files ready to upload or print.
Cover design
Our custom-made covers are designed with both ebooks and print editions in mind: they look great as a small thumbnail, but with enough detail to be interesting at full size. Unlike many other designers, I will work on your cover until you are 100% happy with it. After all, you've spent days, weeks, months, maybe years writing your book – it deserves a cover you love.
Interior layout designs
We can prepare your manuscript for uploading to digital platforms such as Kindle and Kobo, and provide the design and typesetting of your print editions. While we don't offer editing services, we are happy to make any editing changes needed during revisions.
Marketing materials
When your book is ready to be published, we can create marketing materials to help you promote your book: 3D images, business cards, postcards, bookmarks, posters and website banners, all using the design of your book's cover artwork to create a clear, consistent look for your book and marketing campaign.


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Nothing beats fresh carrot juice. Except when you're craving it and can't have it. Then you wish you had never thought of it because now you can't stop thinking about it but you know you can't have it. Was that confusing enough? That's how my brain works.
Will someone bring me some right now? Oh, and don't forget to add in some ginger. That's the secret!
Carrot Juice with Ginger
(You'll need a juicer for this recipe)
- 4 large organic carrots
- 1 inch cube of ginger
- ½ lemon
How to Make
- Prepare carrots: wash and cut off tops. cut to fit in juicer.
- Peel the ginger and slice to fit your juicer.
- Chop the skin off the lemon.
- Juice and enjoy.
The ginger can be tricky so add it bit by bit until you've got the taste juuuust right. Make a little extra for me, please!


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Aquarian Age Quotes 1982 - 1993
Aquarian Age Quotes by the Siri Singh Sahib, Yogi Bhajan are a collection of quotes about the times that we are in right now. It starts off with the year, 1982 to 1993. The Aquarian Age is when the truth will not only be understood but will also be lived. (July 9, 1982)
Whatever time and privilege - I have to be with you to prepare you for these cusp years. When the Ages cross, your past shall be obsolete. It won't work for you. Your values won't work, your methods and procedures won't work, but in your memory of these teachings you will have the knowledge to cross the Age. Submitted by Dr. Shanti Shanti Kaur - July 6, 1993
In your Piscean thinking you always find one thing, "What is in it for the man who is talking?"
In the Aquarian Age thinking is "What is in it for you (the one) who is listening."
Do you understand? Talking doesn't mean anything anymore. If your presence cannot talk, your words will not mean anything. It is the age of experience, experience, experience.December 27, 1991
"Pioneers in the Age of Aquarius" - Summer Solstice
You have come here from all the lands, and you will keep on coming here from all the lands for centuries to come. This land has its karma and this land has its dharma to enrich you whenever you come here, as it has done for centuries. It has a practice, it has a habit, and it has blessings. It is the dwelling place of the guardian souls of this planet.
It's a human history. It is a path that will always be there—that will live, will flourish, and will expand. This path belongs to those who are not cold, whose hearts have not become stone, whose heads have not become so swollen that they can't hear the voice of the soul. This path will belong to those who will do justice to themselves, who will listen to their souls as well as their mental and spiritual passions, who will not be spiritually blind or fanatic, and who will not be too lazy to walk.
This path will belong to those who, with all their strengths and weaknesses, will still serve others. And I promise you that those who shall serve others, the Almighty God shall have no power but to serve them, that is the only way. Your power is not in your strength and weakness, in your show and your capacity, in your titles and your achievements, in your money, and in your playing games.
Your power is to uplift others. Those who uplift others, God shall uplift them, because it is God's Will to uplift everybody. When you live in your Godliness, He will not let you fall.
We are all pioneers in the Age of Aquarius. No man can give a man anything other than love. No man can give a man anything other than hope. No man can give a man anything but service. The only thing you can do is act like a forklift - go into the dirt and lift the other person and put him on track, so he can proceed.
You will ask me the question, "If I start doing that all the time, what will happen to me?" Then the big forklift called God will come, and He will go into the dirt and lift you up. Is there a better deal than that?
Please remember, we are here to start an era, to start an Age, to celebrate the transition from the Piscean Age into the Aquarian Age. We are here to celebrate that. We are the pioneers. We are the pioneers of the Dharma. Let's bow our heads in prayer and let us open our hearts. Let us walk on this blessed land for a few days in spirit.
With these words, with your likes and dislikes, your loves and hatreds, your affection and understanding, I hope you will carry the Guru, that which takes you from darkness to light, to all the lands, cross the boundaries which have never been crossed, touch the boundaries which have never been touched walk into hearts which have never been open, shake hands which hate to be shaken, go and bring people out of their holes so they can be holy, and pull people out of their heights, so they can save their height in the eyes of God.
You should be smart, learn the art, and go across the world and heal God's creation. This is your job, and what you are actually going to say is, "Hail, hail Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru, embodiment of compassion, healing, and service. and heal the world." Your job is to heal the world and elevate and uplift everybody.
Everybody shall be healed. Take a person from his lower self, from his ditch, and raise the pitch so he can be uplifted. The mantra of the Age of Aquarius is "keep up" - help keep everybody up. When you never let yourself down and never let anybody else down, God shall serve you. He shall never let you down. June 20, 1993
© YB Teachings, LLC 1993
Source: Harbhajan Kaur Khalsa Aquarian Age reading Ministers' meeting Winter Solstice in Florida, 2010.
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LAFD: Do You Have a 'Killer' Christmas Tree?
In light of fatal fires involving Christmas trees and holiday decorations, the Los Angeles Fire Department reminds you:
"It can take seven years to grow a Christmas tree... and seven seconds for it to become an inferno."
Along with caring properly for your tree by keeping it watered at all times and away from any heat source, the LAFD asks you to pay close attention to the video, so as to understand The Facts About Fire:
Fire is FAST
There is little time! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house. In minutes, a house can be engulfed in flames. Most fires occur in the home when people are asleep. If you wake up to a fire, you won't have time to grab valuables because fire spreads too quickly and the smoke is too thick. There is only time to escape.
Fire is HOT!
Heat is more threatening than flames. A fire's heat alone can kill. Room temperatures in a fire can be 100 degrees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees or more at eye level. Inhaling this super hot air will scorch your lungs. This heat can melt clothes to your skin. In five minutes a room can get so hot that everything in it ignites at once: this is called flashover.
Fire is DARK!
Fire isn't bright, it's pitch black. Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke and complete darkness. If you wake up to a fire you may be blinded, disoriented and unable to find your way around the home you've lived in for years.
Fire is DEADLY!
Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do. Fire uses up the oxygen you need and produces smoke and poisonous gases that kill. Breathing even small amounts of smoke and toxic gases can make you drowsy, disoriented and extremely short of breath. The odorless, colorless fumes can lull you into a deep sleep before the flames reach your door. You may not wake up in time to escape.
In the event of a fire, time is the biggest enemy and every second counts!
Escape first, then call for help. Develop a home fire escape plan and designate a meeting place outside. Make sure everyone in the family knows two ways to escape from every room. Practice feeling your way out with your eyes closed.
Never stand up in a fire, always crawl low under the smoke and try to keep your mouth covered. Never return to a burning building for any reason; it may cost you your life!
Having functional smoke alarms and practicing your home escape plan will dramatically increase the chance that you and loved ones will survive what you hopefully now have learned - are the facts about fire.
The LAFD wishes you a joyous and *safe* holiday season!
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Warm Bodies (2013)
Warm Bodies is a 2013 American romantic zombie film based on Isaac Marion's popular novel of the same name. Directed by Jonathan Levine, the film stars Nicholas Hoult and Teresa Palmer. This film focuses on the development of the relationship between Julie (a teenage girl) and R (a zombie), their romance sets in motion a sequence of events that might transform the entire lifeless world.


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Charlie Farren
CHARLIE FARREN is an American musician, composer and guitarist best known as the lead singer of the rock bands The Joe Perry Project and FARRENHEIT. He's long known for his acoustic performances – capturing audiences with his unique delivery, soaring vocals, and innovative guitar style.
He emerged onto the national scene in the early '80s as lead singer and guitarist with The Joe Perry Project. In that band, Charlie established himself as one of Boston's hottest young singers – writing the hits 'Listen To The Rock,' 'East Coast, West Coast,' and 'I've Got The Rock And Rolls Again'.
In 1986, Charlie formed the band FARRENHEIT, along with Dave Hull (Joe Perry Project) and John Muzzy, and released their self-titled debut album on the Warner Brothers label. With three hit singles from that album and strong video exposure on MTV, FARRENHEIT established themselves as one of the premiere new rock acts of the decade.
He recently launched his 16th release through his own FMan Media label, and is dedicated to managing his extensive CD and publishing catalog.
This year, Farren is kicking off the 5th Season Premiere of On Stage with Mantis – performing a solo set of classics, with a few new songs blended in.