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No Tottenham players asking for transfer this month - Mauricio Pochettino
LONDON -- Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino believes all the players who were in his squad against Fulham are committed to the club, stating none have told him they want to leave this month.
Toby Alderweireld, Mousa Dembele and Danny Rose were all expected to depart this summer, and they could still move abroad. But all three were included in the 18-man group for Saturday's 3-1 home win over Slavisa Jokanovic's Cottagers at Wembley, and only Rose did not get onto the pitch.
"Players that are not happy, from my point of view, everyone can leave," said Pochettino. "Then it's different if they can negotiate with Daniel [Levy] and be agreed.
"For me, I want players who are fully committed with the team and want to fight for the team. The players that are here are all committed. Not one told me today that they wanted to find a solution [to leave].
"If I am here, in my position like a manager, it's because the club trusts in my decision, not because I am so handsome.
"I understand every single situation. I understand agents, I understand everything, that football becomes a business, a big business too, and [the clubs must] protect their asset.
"There's a lot of things that I can say, but I promise you I'm not going to waste time talking about individual situations.
"It's not going to change. You're not going to put pressure on me, or put pressure on my decision. Nobody is going to blackmail me. The club is not going to put pressure on me. I want to enjoy football, I promise you."
Tottenham led 1-0 at half-time against Fulham after Lucas Moura's opener but the visitors equalised through Aleksandar Mitrovic, and Spurs needed strikes from Kieran Trippier and Harry Kane to maintain their winning start to the season.
"I am so happy with the victory and so happy because the performance was good and we fully dominated the game and we deserved the victory," said Pochettino. "I want to give the full credit to the players.
"But of course we need to improve. We want to challenge the big teams. I think it's a situation that we need to improve. We need to push to improve in different areas, be more clinical in front of goal.
"Playing so well after 20 or 30 minutes, dominating the game and positional game, we created a lot of chances and a lot of situations where we must or should be more aggressive and more clinical in front of goal, in these situations in the last 15 minutes of the half. Then we cannot afford to start so sloppy in the second half.
"When you have three centre-backs, two wing-backs and I think one more defensive holding midfielder in front, to concede the chances we conceded, we need to review everything and analyse and take the best decision.
"But it's good to start like this. I am a little bit disappointed but I am so happy with all the players. Mousa [Dembele] and of course Erik [Lamela], they helped the team [off the bench] and increased the tempo.
"That is what we want from the players that are outside, being focused when the manager or team needs them to be available to do."
Trippier, who was used as a wing-back, scored another free-kick after also doing so for England against Croatia in the World Cup semifinals, but Pochettino feels he too can perform better.
"I think the team worked very hard to find that space that Kieran can be bright in," said the manager. "That position when he arrives in the side, a higher position, he has a very good quality in the cross.
"But it's true that he had a lot of possibility to connect with offensive players but wasn't. I think I am happy because it was a great goal, but he still needs to improve."
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In 1976, the apple company was established as a company of computers. In the recent past, the company has experienced a complex expansion that not only deals in computers but much more. The apple company detached the barricade with the iPod; as a result, it became the dominant leader of music player market. In 2007, apple joined the phone manufacturing with the widely successful I Phon. this company is a company of consumer goods which makes it require a proper understanding o its consumers n and products when evaluating the company`s value (Eric, 2008). Apple experiences competition with other companies. Apple is well-known for its exceptional reputation in the industry of consumer electronics because it is supple from its viewpoint of inclusive artistic plan to its typical.
The apple chain of stores operates more than 150 worldwide branches, where the software and devices are serviced and sold. Apple does not supply software for Microsoft windows operating system, due to its Quick time connectivity suite of iTunes and media player for the iPod. Most takings of Apple's software draw closer in form of potential software for the OS-X operating system exclusive to Macintosh computers of Apple. Today the main source of revenue in the Apple's company is from the iPod media player. I Phone, which was launched recently, anticipated to outperform is production allowance, as a result, making the appliance expensive and exclusive
History of Apple Company
Apple computer is majorly responsible for the massive development of private industry. His company manufactures, designs, and markets software, computers and peripherals concentrating on lower cost that are designed uniquely computers like power Macintosh models and IMAC. Apple was established by Steve Wozniak, in April 1976 and Steve jobs both dropouts in college (Eric, 2008). They began their partnership some years back a self-taught and talented engineer, initiated building of boxes that made him able to make phone calls at long distance for free. In1976, Wozniak was making another box- the apple I computer without power supply or keyboard for a hobbyist club of computer. Wozniak and job sold their most precious property two calculators and a van amounting to $1,300 in order o start a company.50 computers were ordered by a local retailer which were built in the garage owned by job.
Eventually, they sold 200to computer hobbyist in the bay area of San Francisco for$666 each. And Wozniak started top w3ork on Apple II later that summer, in order to appeal a larger market than computer hobbyists. A local enthusiast of computer was hired by job to design software and assemble circuit boards. Ancient microcomputers ordinarily had been housed by metal boxes. Jobs instead planned to use modular beige plastic container which is more attractive, to house Apple II.
In order to come up with a larger company, Job consulted an electronic engineer who had retired; mike Markkula a former marketer for Intel co-operations. Later Markkula bought a third of the company shares .Jobs, with the help of Markkul established their business plan and later, in 1977mike Scott was hired as the president. In his engineering capacity, Wozniak worked full time for apple. Job recruited Regis McKenna to devise strategy for advertising the company. McKenna designed the emblem of the apple company and commenced with the advertisement.
The apple computers were the earliest microcomputers to use tint graphics with a small screen set at the screen. In 1979, apple launched the apple II+ which had more memory then Apple II and a system that has an easier start up and the first printer of the company. In December 1980, Apple went open it was presenting 6 million shares at $22 each one sold away within minutes. In September 1980, Apple III was released and was received well. However, most units attested to be faulty; they had to halt their production and fixed the problem. Despite the hurdles they had to move on.
The company's overview
Apple incorporated on january3, 1977, manufactures, markets, and designs a variety of personal computers, media devices, and mobile communication. They also sell a variety of related software, peripherals, networking solution, services and third party digital application and content. The company globally sells its products through, online stores, retail stores and third party cellular network carrier's retailers and wholesalers. The company has designed a variety of products, programs and services to focus on the customer education needs and programs of individual laptop (Eric, 2008). The apple manufactures high definition display of Apple cinema and sells a variety of products which are apple branded including storage devices, printers, computer memory, still cameras and other computing supplies and products.
The company also sells its software and hardware to customers in creative market, government and enterprise. This company conducts its operation in five segments; retail, Japan, Asia-pacific Europe and America. It offers a variety of personal computing products like portable computers and desktop, third party hardware products, and peripherals. The desktop computers of the company include; McMinn, McPro and iMac. The iMac is a design of all in one that incorporates memory, graphics card, processor, display and in a single enclosure, other components. The McMinn is a desktop computer in a compact enclosure. One of the main focuses of the company is integration delivery with internet access throughout the services and products of the company. The web browser version of the company, which is well-matched with Macs and computers that are windows based, is safari 5.mobileme on the other hand is an internet service, subscribed annually and delivers contacts, calendars and e-mails from and to native applications on window-based computers, iPod and Macs
Strengths and Weaknesses (HIFORMS)
Apple is continuously listed as one of the most admired companies by a variety of publications. This is an attribute to its strong focus on research and development. Innovative products such as the IMac, IPod, IPhone have changed the computer, music, and mobile industries. As competitors work on imitating Apple products, Apple is one step ahead-working on the next best thing. Its strong brand recognition is what gives it its edge over competitors. Consumers expect great things from the company and for the most part are rarely disappointed. Over the past 3 years Apples net income has increased from $4.8B in 2008 to $14B in 2010. However, fierce competition in the smart phone and tablet industry is affecting Apples market share. Google in particular is winning over many consumers with its Android operating system. Patent infringement suits are also a concern as an unfavorable decision can have a major financial impact on the company. For this reason Apple can't rely on innovation and brand recognition alone for competitive advantages. Discussed below are different areas (HIFORMS) of Apple's company and whether it's a current strength or a weakness.
Human Resources
- Weakness: Although Apple is knows to be a top notch tech company and one of the best tech companies to work for, it still doesn't measure up to competitors like Google and Microsoft. It's no secret that Apple's perks fall well short of those of Google and Microsoft. Concerns of employees are that it's too corporate, employees work long hours, and pay is low compared to other tech companies. Also opinions on CEO Steve Jobs vary from a charismatic leader to someone who is very demanding and hard to please.
Infrastructure/Information Systems
- Strength: Without a strong infrastructure, Apple wouldn't be in the position it is today. Its infrastructure consists of strong leadership (Steve Jobs), R&D (IPod, IPhone, IPad), and brand recognition (marketing). Even though Apples core is developing new cool products to the market, its leadership is what takes the company to another level. As long as Steve Jobs is in place, Apple is in great hands. Look no further than the IPod + ITunes relationship, genius! He also turned the company around from near bankruptcy in the 1990's to one of the most admired companies today.
- Strength: The Company's growth over the past couple of years is direct result of its successful products it has introduced to the market. Apple's current market cap is $337B (five times its book value!). Apples earnings and financial position allows it to invest more into research and development but fierce competition in the smart phone market is limiting profits and market share. However, the smart phone industry is one of the fastest growing industries and Apple with only 14% of the market, the room for growth is enormous.
- Strength: The introduction of an Apple product has become a major event. Lots of buzz and speculation usually precedes an Apple announcement. The introduction of any new product is usually introduced by CEO Steve Jobs who many people see as a visionary. A major reason there is so much buzz around an Apple announcement is because the general public usually has no idea of what is being introduced. This is a compliment of the company's tight lipped secret policy. The one negative that irks people the most is the stubbornness of the company to not make their products compatible with others. For this reason, many people don't even consider an Apple product because it can't be used with all software applications. At some point Apple must learn to be more flexible or they might risk losing customers to competitor like Google as it did in the early 90's with IBM.
Research & Development
- Strength: Apple is an innovative company. It success is dependent on introducing "the next best thing" to the market. Technology is evolving at a pace greater than ever seen before and if R&D was to ever slow down, Apple will be left behind. Due to Apples high focus on R&D, it is the trend setter when it comes to tech products. While Apple is busy creating, everyone else is busy following. However, like all new products introduced to the market, there are setbacks (glitches). To their credit Apple has listen and acknowledged when something was wrong and usually fixed the issue at hand. Also, next generation products such as the IPhone 2, 3, and 4 have all addressed problems previous models incurred.
Marketing & Sales
- Strength: Plain and simple, Apple's marketing is what drives its earnings. Sure they make a neat product, but somebody has to make it cool. Apple has created a huge brand image that consists of quality, design, and entertainment. The main objective of marketing is to convince more people to buy a product that they don't necessarily need. How many people can honestly say they don't need an IPhone today? Not many which means Apple has done its job. Also, its Retail stores have been very successful. Apples retail stores are specialized for Apple products only allowing users to have access to the actual product before purchasing. This worked well since Apple products are known to be very cool in design and having hands on access increased a consumers desire to purchase.
- Weakness: Although, exceptional customer service, Apple has to rely on other companies for full use of their products. For example, an IPhone can only be as good as AT&T's and Verizon's networks allow it to be. One of the main concerns many consumers have is that ATT's and Verizon's networks weren't as reliable as other networks, therefore purchasing an IPhone is not an option for them. Unlike Google where users can go to any network provider, Apple relies on only two networks. This frustrates many users who would like to purchase an IPhone but don't because of the service providers they are limited to.
External Analysis DEPMTS
Demographic Opportunities and Threats
- Opportunities: The U.S. population as well as the global population as a whole is growing which provides a terrific opportunity for consumer electronic companies to sell their products to more people (Day 2010). It has been shown statistically that the use of consumer electronics is on the rise as well. In 2050, the population of the United States will be approximately 392,000,000 people (Day 2010). The world population by 2050 will be approximately 9.1 billion people (UN 2005) With electronics being an integral part of many peoples' lives and this is true now for much of the nonwestern world as well, the demand for such products will increase also. Those companies that effectively meet the needs of this growing population stand to make a great deal of money. Within this population, 27% of Internet users own a digital media player (MacDaily 2006). 37% of these Internet users are between the ages of 18-34 (MacDaily 2006). Women are also increasing in number as users of tablet PCs (Salkever 2010). The 18-34 age bracket represents a large percentage of the population that can be effectively targeted by these companies.
- Threats: People are living longer and therefore the average age is increasing which could pose a potential problem for consumer electronics companies. As I mentioned above, a large percentage of this tech savvy customer base is a young population where the average age is getting older. The average age is increasing with the U.S. population with it reaching 39 by 2050 (Day 2010). While 39 is by no means old, if consumer electronic companies continue to target and wish to associate with a young population to equate their products with being hip and cool then they will become a smaller percentage of the population as a whole. The U.S. population is also becoming more diverse with a rising Asian, Hispanic, and Black influence (Day 2010). Purchase patterns for electronics could change as a result but only time will tell.
Economic Opportunities and Threats
- Opportunities: While U.S. economic growth has slowed, there has been tremendous economic growth in emerging markets including India and China which has led to a growing middle class, "A new global middle class is rising up from poverty in emerging economies around the world, providing competition for labor and resources, but also enormous promise for multinationals that tailor products and services to the burgeoning ranks of first-time consumers, according to Wharton faculty and analysts" (Wharton 2008). China and India have economic growth of 9.5% and 6% respectively (Engardio 2006). Increasing affluence within a population leads to an increase in discretionary spending. This includes spending on electronics. Demand in India and China for tablet PCs, smartphones, PCs, music players, etc. has increased.
- Threats: The U.S. unemployment rate as of June 2011 was 9.2% (Trading 2011). That statistic is quite a significant number that cannot be ignored. With so many people out of work, it is difficult for them to have discretionary spending on luxuries like electronics. The price of education is going up, the price of gas is going up, and the price of goods and services is going up while income is increasing at a slower rate or even going down, "Consumer spending was flat in May, government data showed Monday, as higher gas prices at the pump and a weak labor market made consumers reluctant to open their wallets" (Robb 2011). All of these factors shift consumer spending from luxuries to necessities.
Political Opportunities and Threats
- Opportunities: With the free trade agreements that exist right now, countries like China are able to accumulate enormous wealth by sending their products to the United State without a tariff. This wealth which was mentioned above has led to a growing middle class in China. Chinese consumers have greater discretionary spending as a result, "Over $2 trillion in discretionary spending will come from China, India, and Indonesia seen over the next 5 years" (Wall 2010). An increase in discretionary spending leads to an increase spending in luxury items like tablet PCs and smartphones for example.
- ThreatsFree trade agreements have indirectly shifted manufacturing jobs from the United States to countries like China, the Philippines, etc, "The rising trade deficit in manufactured goods accounts for about 58% of the decline in manufacturing employment between 1998 and 2003 and 34% of the decline from 2000 to 2003. This translates into about 1.78 million jobs since 1998 and 935,000 jobs since 2000 that have been lost due to rising net manufactured imports" (Bivens 2004). The unemployment rate reflects this trend and has led to a decrease in discretionary spending for Americans. This could pose a problem for consumer electronic companies in the future if more Americans are unemployed or have their salaries cut and as a result and have to cut back on luxuries like electronics. As a result, sales efforts might have to be targeted overseas.
Mother Earth Opportunities and Threats
- Opportunities: Electronics can be very helpful if a natural disaster were to occur. People would be trying to use their cell phones or get on the Internet to contact their friends and family to make sure they were alright. This is assuming cell phone towers were not destroyed. They would be using their cell phones for text messaging as well using Facebook as means of communication also, "Social media/networking sites have become a vital tool in the disaster that recently occurred in Japan. Phone services came to a halt, preventing victims from contacting their loved ones. Services such as Facebook, Twitter, Mixi (The largest social networking in Japan) proved more reliable than phone service, becoming a lifeline for people looking to find lost loved ones, tell others they were safe, or send encouraging words" (Hosaka 2011). The Internet would be heavily used to provide information on the magnitude of the disaster. Overall electronic usage would increase.
- Threats: If access to fresh water becomes even scarcer in the future, then growing middle class populations in poorer countries will care less about purchasing electronics and rather would be using whatever money they had to get water, "Some believe that fresh water will be a critical limiting resource for many regions in the near future. About one-third of the world's population lives in countries that are experiencing water stress. In Asia, where water has always been regarded as an abundant resource, per capita availability declined by 40-60% between 1955 and 1990. Projections suggest that most Asian countries will have severe water problems by the year 2025. Most of Africa historically has been water-poor" (Postel 2006). This point once again reflects the shift from luxury consumption to necessity consumption if this were to occur. Providers of consumer electronics will obviously suffer as a result.
Technological Opportunities and Threats
- Opportunities: There is a great deal of opportunity for tech companies that are innovative and stay one step ahead of the competition. Introducing the newest product tends to win customer praise and admiration. Those companies that embrace the newest technology and satisfy customer demand could make a great deal of money, "Innovation is the engine of long-term business growth. To generate consistent returns and sustain performance, companies must continually refresh their portfolio of offerings and the business models that drive them. With so much at stake, innovation can't be a hit-or-miss proposition based on vague prescriptions about fostering creativity" (Johnson 2010). For consumer electronic companies not to pursue being innovative it could have an adverse effect on the organization in the long term. By that we mean the organization might not survive in the long term.
- Threats: While those organizations that introduce the newest technology could potentially reap huge profits and gain market share, companies that are playing catch up because they didn't introduce the newest technology could suffer. Customers have a tendency to stay loyal to those tech companies that have a reputation for being innovative rather than copy cats. As we mentioned above, for an organization that is in an industry built on innovation, accepting the status quo could be detrimental for long term success.
Socio-cultural Opportunities and Threats
- Opportunities: In society, the importance of aesthetics or visual appeal has been growing all over the world. The same holds to be true with regard to the aesthetics of a product. Organizations in the consumer electronics industry are no longer able to get away with providing devices that have functionality but lack aesthetic appeal. The look of a product plays a key role in a consumers desire to purchase the product, "Product design has been recognized as an opportunity for differential advantage in the market place. The appearance of product influence consumer product choice in several ways" (Creusen 2005). Those companies that succeed in providing the look of a product along with the functionality win the customers. Aesthetics plays an integral role in several ways, "A product's appearance can have aesthetic and symbolic value for consumers, can communicate functional characteristics and give a quality impression, and can communicate ease of use" (Creusen 2005).
- Threats: Societies around the world might look down on an increasing dependence on electronics as well as the openness of information available with electronics. Some might feel that people are becoming too dependent on these devices and as a result would discourage rather than encourage usage. This societal mentality could discourage demand in the long run.
- Low Risk of Substitutes: The risk of substitutes is low for organizations in the industry. A tablet PC and a smartphone can be a substitute for a PC in some ways but the chances of it completely replacing one device is highly unlikely to happen. Each device has its own distinctive qualities that are desired by consumers today. Although their power and capabilities will increase over time, we do not see them disappearing any time soon.
- Low Risk of Entry: The major players in the industry are large organizations that are involved in supplying consumer electronics. This is a direct result of the large capital expenditures to enter and stay in the industry. These large corporations can also benefit from economies of scale to an extent where smaller companies cannot. Economies of scale allow these organizations to increase their profitability and pass those savings onto consumers by lowering prices. As a result, the corporations already in the industry can spend money to aggressively advertise their products.
- High Risk of Rivalry: Competition in the consumer electronics industry is fierce and as a result the risk of rivalry is high. Large organizations like Apple, Hewlett Packard, Microsoft, and Google are heavily invested in winning customers. Each company is constantly trying to innovate and offer a more advanced product to get customers.
- High Risk of Buyers: Retailers and consumers can be very price sensitive to purchasing electronics especially during a recession. With retailers, if they do not see much demand because of a lack of consumer spending it would have an adverse effect on organizations in the industry because retail demand would decrease. Consumers can also be very price sensitive especially during a recession where needs are satisfied first before wants. Although organizations in the industry do successfully differentiate their products, economic conditions dictate demand.
- High Risk of Suppliers: Many organizations in the industry have successfully differentiated their products and can charge a higher price to consumers as a result. As mentioned above, many of the products have really no direct substitutes. Suppliers would not want to lower quality because they could lose current and potential customers, but they would be able to raise price for the reasons mentioned.
- What Do Customers Want? Customers want electronics with the most advanced technology that is also visually appealing. Having only the former or the latter is not enough. It has to be a combination of both. Price point is also important, but consumers have a tendency to pay a premium for quality. Certain brands are synonymous with good performance. Consumers also want more features but offered in a simplified manner.
- How to Survive the Competition? Successful differentiation is the ticket to stay ahead of the competition. If an organization in the industry does not offer a superior product then they will lose market share to the competition. This holds true for a variety of products ranging from music players to PCs. Also, what the product can do is not enough, what the product looks like and if it has a sleek design to appeal to consumers is very important. Competition is fierce and offering a mediocre product is not enough.
Strategic Analysis
Organizational culture as a competitive advantage
The culture of Apple was designed with the idea in mind that employees will achieve more and work harder if they are not micromanaged. Apple was among the first organizations in the 1970's to gain a competitive advantage over their competition by transforming the way that their employees work.
The Apple organization is flat and informal verses formal and tall. This flat structure allows Apple to move quickly and be very nibble. Projects have few layers of approval which aids them in getting new and fresh ideas to market quickly. Apple touts that they offer an environment in which things happen fast, meeting aren't long and drawn out and their employees are free to make things happen. Employees are encouraged to collaborate in open spaces and large open rooms. At Apple they believe in innovation that creates an impact, this philosophy encourages employees to look at working at the organization as a calling and not a job. Over the years Apple has trampled their competition and the organizational structure and unique culture have contributed to significantly to this.
Additionally the Apple culture has a strong work hard and play hard component to it. Employees work the necessary long hours to get new products and services launched but they also enjoy the cool benefits and rewards that the company offers. They offer product discounts, wellness programs, an onsite fitness center and even an organic café onsite. However, working in this environment is not for the faint of heart. It is demanding and many people have left to work for other less cultish organizations.
Retaining key talent in the Silicon Valley can be extremely difficult and with deadlines and secrecy being two strong driving forces in the Apple culture it takes individuals that are mentally astute to survive this environment. Although casual in dress it requires very quick minded, sharp and internally motivated individuals to Think Different at Apple. The culture promotes individuality and focuses on individual achievement for employees. This can be very counter intuitive given most organizations strongly encourage team work. Below outlines ten areas in which Steve Tobaks, author of "Inside Apples Cult-like Culture" synthesized as key components/lessons of the Apple culture.
- Empower employees to make a difference
- Value what's important, not minute
- Love and cherish the innovators
- Do everything important internally
- Get marketing
- Control the message
- Little things make a big difference
- Don't make people do things, make them better at doing things
- When you find something that works, keep doing it
- Think different
Lastly, CEO of Apple, Steve Jobs has a large impact on the culture of the organization. Apple was shaped by the visionary leadership of Jobs with everything from marathon Mondays to the style in which he empowered key individuals throughout the company to execute on projects of the utmost importance. Jobs has been criticized for his autocratic style of leadership. Often called a tyrant Jobs rules with an iron fist and has been know to be very threatening and intimidating to employees at all levels within the organization.
It is however, undisputed that under his leadership the company has excelled and Apple is at the top of its game with products spanning from iPad's, iPhone's, iCloud's and iMac's. Jobs style of leadership has created an environment that focuses on results and innovation. There is little tolerance at Apple for mediocrity and with the major focus on output and the production of top notch products and services only the strong survive. At Apple all employees are on notice that the environment is one of excellence and high achievement. This has proven to be a strength in the competitive strategy for Apple but can also be viewed as a weakness because the sometimes harsh treatment can lead to lack of retention of key talent. Apple clearly acknowledges that a large portion of their future success hinges on their ability to continue to recruit, develop and retain key talent in the Silicon Valley at all levels of the organization. There is no guarantee that they will continue to be a viable employment option for up and coming talent in one of the most competitive markets in the country.
Mission Statement
"The Company is committed to bringing the best user experience to its customers through its innovative hardware, software, peripherals, services and Internet offerings."
COMPACTS/Mission Statement Analysis
The purpose of a mission statement is to describe what business your organization is in, describe the organizations customer and outline what level of performance should be anticipated. An organizations mission statement is the step which moves your strategic planning process from the present to the future. The mission statement must be concise enough to work for today but broad enough to be used in the future. The mission statement should allow for growth within an organizations products, services and expansion into new markets. It should not be narrow or constricting. Fluidity is key! Additionally, as with all goals the mission statement should be SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound).
According to the COMPACTS theory an ideal organizational mission statement includes a customer focus, has an overarching role in society, has a component of morality, is particular, has aspiration, and concise, transmitted and stable.
Customer Focus
In order to be truly effective a mission statement must be customer focused. Customer focus is an organizations ability to orient it's self toward satisfying the needs of its customers. It appears that Apple has acknowledged it's customers in their mission statement and in their business. Presently, Apple is one of the world's super powers in the technology arena. By creating a wide range of products and services such as Mac computers, iPhone, iPad, iPod, Apple TV, Zserve and iCloud the company has propelled it's self to the forefront of most consumers minds.
Apple historically has created products that exceed the expectations of their customers. The business model of the company is set up to encourage a customer focus. In lieu of a brand expansion and a world wide takeover Apple has decided to focus on the following three areas pertaining to its customers; customer experience, application of proprietary technology to enhance the customer experience and crowd sourcing or open-source collaboration (Gerson Lehman Group, 2009).
At its infancy the iPhone was conceptually a different way to look at a cell phone carrier/cell phone manufacturer relationship. Apple had a very special way that they wanted to do business and it took years before the AT&T deal was solidified. It is important for Apple to continue to control their own destiny. In doing so with AT&T they have been able to continue to find ways to continue to offer better and more innovative offerings to their customers.
Apple has single handedly redefined how its customers use technology. They obviously did not create the needs that their customers have instead they redesigned how their customers needs can be fulfilled. An example is the full internet browsing that is available on the iPhone verses the limited browsing that is available on other phones like the BlackBerry Curve. Apple saw an opportunity to create something that would better suit the needs of consumers in the market and they ran with it. In conjunction with the iPhone the invention of the Apple Store allowed Apple to continue to offer greatness to their customers but it also allows their third party suppliers to tap into the nitche that they have carved out. It is reported that Apple gets 30% of revenue of every app created (Gerson Lehman Group, 2009).
As of September 25, 2010 Apple has opened a total of 317 retail stores (Gerson Lehman Group, 2009). Apple determined that the best way to control their customer's experience is to expand their retail store division. The stores employees are very seasoned professionals that have a high level of product knowledge and this offers a way to enhance the presentation and marketing of the company's products and services.
Apple's mission statement neglects to include the COMPACTS overarching component. Overarching is the overview of the firm's impact in society. Although the company does not address this specifically in their mission statement it is at the forefront of the organizations mind. Apple views their position in society as one of an educator and innovator. Apple historically has focused on the use of technology in education and has focused on delivering tools to help educators teach students to lean (Gerson Lehman Group, 2009). By investing millions into the lives of students all over the world Apple has been able to use technology to win over the loyalty of those not yet older enough to work. The Apple.com website has an entire section devoted to Apple in Education. Although on the surface it appears that Apple is enhancing our society by giving back selfishly they have also created a grassroots way to expose the younger generations to their products and create little Apple soldiers.
An organizational mission statement that includes morality components addresses an organizations economic, ethical, legal or philanthropic responsibility. In April 2010 Jobs was quoted saying, "that its Apple's moral responsibility to protect everyone from porn" (Hruska, 2010). The availability of porn on the internet is at an all time high. However, Apple has taken the stance that they want to keep porn out of the hands of our youth. The end result is a lack of access to applications that are porn related on the App Store. Some view the superpower as the morality police but the reality is that they have made a business decision not to include apps with porn and this breaks no laws.
According to Apple.com in 2009 Apple estimated they were responsible for 9.6 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emission. This number is staggering and has since prompted Apple to reevaluate their "total footprint". Apple breaks their "total footprint" into manufacturing, transportation, product use, recycling and facilities components. This comprehensive life cycle analysis is what Apple uses to determine what emissions are generated and where they come from. In order to reduce their impact on the environment Apple is forced to improve their products including packaging through to the components that make up the products. Because of the reach of power of the Apple brand similar to that of Wal-Mart they are able to also force their suppliers to follow suit.
Apple touts programs such as the Apple Recycling Program and Supplier Responsibility. These programs and others are ways in which Apple can take part in being socially responsible for the community around them. Apple dedicates a significant portion of their website to their dedication to environmental considerations. They are aware of how just by making small changes in the way that they do things that can impact both the environment and the way that consumers view them.
According to Wikipedia in 2010 Apple filed more than 350 cases with the US Trademark office alone. Apple is no stranger to litigation and most recently Apple has been in the media for its well publicized lawsuit against the Korean company Samsung. Apple alleges that Samsungs Galaxy line of mobile phones and the Galaxy Tab computer tablet have copied their technology, interfaces and product packaging. Apple can be viewed as the Wal-Mart of the information technology world. They have a lot of muscle and leverage. In some areas they have blocked all entrants to certain markets. Does this create a fair market for competition? Likely not but they are still willing to go after anyone that even appears like they are going to threaten their territory. This territorial approach and opposition to playing nice in the sandbox has proved successful but yet very controversial.
The Apple mission statement is specific to the firm and its activities. It is however generic and does leave the reader confused about what line of business that the company is in. Apple is an organization that is very complex and they have lots of products and services that all lead ultimately back to information technology. They create software, hardware, technology and services. Creating a statement to encompass all areas of focus would probably be daunting. Conversely, Apple does a great job of identifying what their products and services are and communicating them through other channels. Although it is unclear in their mission statement who they, they are still succeeding in the market place and have clearly made a space for themselves in the market place.
Good mission statements have an element of stretch to them. Apple has identified that they are "committed to bringing the best user experience…" According to dictionary.com the word best means, "most excellently or suitably; in or to the highest degree; most fully." It can be concluded that aiming to be the best is definitely a stretch goal. Apple has proven that they want to continue to offer innovative, cutting edge, unique and high quality products and services to their customers. Although they have taken heat recently for what some call too much of a rush to get products to market. It appears that apart of their strategy is to get products to market quickly even if it means sacrificing quality.
Concise, Transmitted & Stable
The COMPACTS model says that a good mission statement is concise and clear. Apple's mission statement is direct and to the point. Apples mission statement is short and sweet however extremely difficult to find. It is not located on the Apple website it is however buried in their 10-K/Annual Report and even then it is not easily identifiable. A well transmitted mission statement would be clearly accessible and easily located for all shareholders. Lastly, it is stable and unchanging. Stability means that there will likely be little change to it because of how generic it is. This allows longevity in the use of it.
Business Strategy
"The Company's business strategy leverages its unique ability to design and develop its own operating systems, hardware, application software and services to provide its customers new products and solutions with superior ease-of-use, seamless integration, and innovative industrial design."
Business Level Strategy Outlined (Goals)
The business strategy of Apple includes its ability to design and develop its own operating systems, hardware, application software; invest in research and development; the enhancement of innovative products and technologies; the building of a robust platform for the discovery and delivery of third-party digital content and applications through the iTunes store; a community for the development of third-party software and hardware products and digital content; expansion of distribution to effectively reach more customers and provide them with a high quality sales and sales support experience ( Apple, 2010). Apple is aware of and has acknowledged that in order to compete successfully in today's market they must continue to introduce new products and technology to the market place.
Research and Development
Organizations that truly embrace the needs of their customers create products and services that their customers want. In order to determine what these products are companies invest resources in research and development. In 2010 Microsoft invested over 8 billion in research and development compared to the almost 2 billion that Apple invested. Apple's total research and development expense was $1.8 billion, $1.3 billion and $1.1 billion in 2010, 2009 and 2008 respectively (Apple, 2010). In recent years the trend has been for companies to invest more heavily in product support and less in innovation. In 2010 Microsoft was granted 3,094 patents compared to Apples 563 (Gralla, 2011). Microsoft however still lags behind Apple when it comes to innovation. Microsoft invests more dollars and clearly has more patents being granted however they are viewed as far less superior when it comes to innovation and outside of the box thinking.
In order for Apple to stay ahead of their competition they must continue to invest resources in developing new products in addition to enhancing their old ones. Apple admittedly must increase the resources allocated to research and development and marketing in order to maintain and expand its position in the market place. They have a loyal following that is built upon the premise of a new toy coming out every so often to replace older outdated ones. However, more importantly they must continue to stay in tune with the ever so changing market and the needs of their customers.

subset: commoncrawl


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Superior 100 Frequently Asked Questions
(with a lil help from John Storkamp)
1. How far is it?
Great question. Trail races are rarely standard distances, and the organizers like to make sure you get your money's worth. The current course from Gooseberry State Park to the finish line at Caribou Highlands on Lutsen Mountain is actually 103.3 miles long. Don Clark and Bonnie Riley have measured this distance twice with a measuring wheel.
2. Do you run it all at once?
You run, walk, and crawl it all at once, if you are lucky. Many (usually 40 or 50%) will not make it to the finish line.
Runners have 38 hours to finish. In addition, runners must reach certain aid stations before cutoff times. The first cutoff time is at Silver Bay aid station at 4 pm on Friday. That means runners have 8 hours to cover the 25 miles from the start to Silver Bay. If they don't get there by 4 pm, a course sweeper (someone who follows the race running/walking the course picking up markers, stray trash, and runners) will pull them out of the race.
The 38 hour cutoff is one of the more generous of 100 mile races. Cutoff times can be an indication of course difficulty. The Lean Horse 100, a relatively flat race on a former rail bed in the Black Hills of South Dakota, has a cutoff time of 30 hours, while the Hardock 100, a ridiculously mountainous Colorado run, has a cut off of 48 hours. With that said, any time someone runs 100 miles it's difficult, and climbing and elevation are only some indicators of difficulty. Lean Horse is not easy—after all it's 100 miles, in August, with little shade.
3. Do you run the whole way?
Most don't. Many power hike the hills to keep their heart rates somewhat level (less energy expenditure). Some walk because it's all their legs will allow them to do at the time. Forward progress and staying ahead of the course sweepers is key to finishing. "Run when you can, walk when you must," is mid-race advice that helped me get through my first hundred.
4. But I don't even like to drive a hundred miles.
That's not a question. Many ultrarunners don't like to drive that far either. Although they will to get to a race.
5. What is a pacer?
A pacer is a life-size, walking and running punching bag / glutton for punishment—not really necessary but runners are welcome to have them. A pacer can run with the racer after the 43-mile point (County Road 6 aid station) after 6 pm on Friday. A pacer gives company to the runner, keeps him or her moving, and can be an aid to safety if the runner is out of his or her mind and not paying attention to important landscape challenges like cliffs and waterfalls. Pacers have been known to fight off possums and other wildlife. Pacers tell stories and bad jokes and sing songs. They can't carry, or "mule," equipment, food, water, etc. for the runners. Some runners use pacers and others don't.
6. What's a crew?
A crew is the runner's posse. A crew is like a pacer but they get abused by their runners just once every few hours, at the trailheads. These people drive from aid station to aid station, wait and wait, and then when the runner comes through, they experience a couple minutes of chaos, then drive to the next aid station and wait some more. During the chaos period, crewmembers may provide emotional support, cowbell, foot rubs and blister drainage, food, a change of clothes, a much-needed pep talk, sympathy, and Facebook updates. My wife tells me not to be a Sally. She unlaces muddy shoes at 3 am when my fingers won't work and the smell makes her gag and she puts fresh socks on my swollen feet. She refills my hydration vest with Tailwind and Gu packets. Then she tells me to get moving and sometimes offers a kiss (or maybe I ask for one), unless I've been puking in the woods. The emotional benefit I get from seeing her at aid stations is priceless.
|Lisa's instructions
7. People run marathons in just over two hours. Why is the pace so much slower for this?
As the race director says, "It's a little hilly and the terrain is not what most people would consider ideal running surface."
Wynn Davis once said that running the Superior 100 is like trying to solve a puzzle with your feet for two days straight.
Aside from the obvious (it's longer), trail running is a much different beast than road running. Road running is about repetition, putting many quick strides together over an even, paved surface, while with trail running every step is different and unique. The Superior Hiking Trail is a challenge not only with its constant climbing and ascending, but also with the roots, rocks, and mud that runners dance through. Running or hiking it helps a person find humility. And blisters and broken toes and lost toenails. When people unfamiliar with this trail experience it with a runner, the first question or comment is often, "You really run on this?" Adam Schwartz-Lowe's winning pace in 2014 was just over 13 minutes per mile. That's beast-mode fast on this trail.
8. Do you eat while running?
Fueling is key to a successful finish and that means eating. The body burns an incredible amount of calories in these events. Aid stations are buffets.
9. What do you eat?
An easier and simpler question to answer would be: What do you not eat? Visualize army ants eating their way through the jungle. They eat what you put in front of them. Hopefully most of it stays down. Standard aid station foods are boiled and salted potatoes, cheeseburgers, pizza, quesadillas, grilled cheese sandwiches, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, bacon, pancakes, cookies, potato chips, oranges, bananas, grapes, Gummy Bears, Twizzlers, Coke, Ginger Ale, chicken noodle soup, potato soup, energy gels, electrolyte capsules, and so on. And runners bring their own variations too. Salts and simple sugars that the body can easily break down are popular. Some odd favorites are Pop-Tarts, burritos, Ramen noodles, even Spaghetti-Os and chocolate milk.
10. Where do you sleep?
Most runners don't sleep. Some do, usually out of necessity. It's possible to see runners dirt napping under tents in aid stations, on rocks on the course, on gravel parking lots, etc. Some runners claim to have slept while actually running. The lack of sleep can cause emotional roller coaster rides and hallucinations.
11. What are the hallucinations like?
They can be nonexistent, fun, or irritating. Mostly they're irritating. They usually aren't the kind of cartoon-like hallucinations one might experience when tripping on LSD. They're softer than that. They might begin with auditory hallucinations—I often think someone is running behind me only to turn around and see no one. Then the visuals might kick in, maybe after a full night without sleep. In the 2014 Superior 100, tree stumps, rocks, and branches were dogs for me on first glance. Since I'm a dog person, it was a good thing.
12. Do you get lost?
It's possible, but the Superior Hiking Trail is one of the best-marked long trails in the country, with regular signs and blazes (a blue paint stripe on rocks and trees). In addition, before the race, markers walk the course, placing an incredible amount of orange ribbons on the trail. At Superior there are at least ten ribbons per mile. These ribbons are reflective and easy to see at night, based on a marking system that Don Clark developed. In the early years, these ribbons were placed on tree limbs. Don realized that most runners have to keep their eyes focused on the ground, so the race switched to a system of ribbons attached to metal wires (originally clothes hangars that Don, Bonnie Riley, and Maynard Lagace cut and straightened) that are placed in the ground.
Still, it's easy to get confused when you're tired. Runners have gotten lost, but they have all been found. Eventually.
Remember Storkamp's pre-race instructions to "keep Lake Superior on your right."
13. How do you train for such a long race?
Lots of time spent on the feet. Long runs are a must, sometimes in daily succession, what is called back-to-back or even back-to-back-to-back (say Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) long runs. The goal is to teach the legs to run when they are tired, when they don't think they are capable of running more.
Lots of hills, or hill repeats, help. Some do speed training as well, but the strength training of running hills is a necessity.
Because trail running is such a full body sport, cross training is helpful too. Cross-country skiing, biking, yoga, and swimming are all popular.
The idea of training specificity, of emulating course conditions, is especially important, and one of the only ways to emulate the unique nature of the Superior Hiking Trail is to run the Superior Hiking Trail. When they can, runners will try to invest some miles on the course itself.
14. Do you take bathroom breaks?
Yes. Runners will pee, shit, and vomit in the woods. If they're smart they carry toilet paper too. Knowing how to go in the woods is a critical skill in any long ultra.
15. What happens to your feet?
Few runners leave the course with perfect feet. They will hurt. They will be swollen and blistered. The amount of rocks and roots at Superior triggers broken toes, ankle sprains and so on. Some people lose the skin under the heel pad. After the race, toenails continue to turn black or purple, and eventually fall off. Some runners like to share pictures of their post-race feet on social media like a badge of badassery. Please don't do this.
16. How long does it take to recover?
Few runners cross the finish line thinking, "I can't wait to do this again." Some may take a blood oath right there to never run again. Conveniently they may already have plenty of available blood spilling out of them. Some runners are back at it within a week, while others might take a month or more off. During the week after running a hundred miler, I often experience increased appetites, fatigue, and an inability to focus, but a runner like John Taylor spends that same time packing for his next hundred-mile race.
17. What is wrong with you that you would run 100 miles?
18. What's the deal with belt buckles (or, Whose idea was this anyway)?
In 1974 Gordy Ainsleigh completed the Western States Trail Ride in California on foot. Buckles were given to finishers of the horse ride, and Gordy got one too. His feat evolved into the Western States Endurance Run, and the idea of awarding buckles to finishers stuck.
In 1983 Harry Sloan, the original Superior Race Director, completed his first Western States Endurance Run (he now has 13 finishes there) and Western States became his model for Superior 100. The first Superior buckle was awarded to Bob Stavig in 1991. That buckle was the shape of a wolf's face, with a runner's profile between the wolf's eyes.


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Slow Burn Studio — streaming
Green Screen vs Set Design
Posted by Summer (slowburnstudio) on
Or, how nice it is to be somewhere pretty.
When I started Twitch, I knew I wanted a green screen. I wanted to be set into my background, to be able to change it at will, to be a PRO STRIMMER. So I have one, I bought a collapsible one before the El Gato ones came out. But I rarely use it. Most gamers use one exclusively. Let's discuss the pros and cons.
Stream Etiquette - The Cringe (and how to avoid it)
Posted by Summer (slowburnstudio) on
Alright. You ready? Because you're about to hear awesomely bad things I've actually encountered in chat. There are a lot of what seem like straight-forward, common sense things you do and don't say while in someone's chat. But, as my dad says, common sense ain't so common. Like these examples. Viewer: Hey! How are y...
Variety Streaming vs Creative Streaming
Posted by Summer (slowburnstudio) on
When what you're doing isn't working - it's time for a change.
A Change of Direction
Posted by Summer (slowburnstudio) on
Up until now I've only blogged about products and very bland things, but going forward I'm going to blog process, challenges, and thoughts on making a living as a creative streamer. There are so many things no one talks about that could help people starting out, there's so many things I want to discuss regarding streaming, income sources, what seems to work, what doesn't.
Let's talk.


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muthu, 16 Sep 2014nice mobile Don't have any file manager plz tel me name in any spacific file manager lots of file manager in ply store I don't understand which is best I have already 7 file manager download not single file manager is good that's what I need a help
SREERAJ, 16 Sep 2014i bought this phone yesterday through amazone, i cant find file manager in this phone, and how... morego to play store...download file manager...
hi frds i am intest to buy this phone so plz tell me the user about this battery backup
i bought this phone yesterday through amazone, i cant find file manager in this phone, and how to add a song as ringtone in this phone please reply
Dear friends iam using this mobile past 10days no issues no hanging HD video supporting good mobile on that price range
I a m experiencing a challenge with storage on my LG Optimus dual sim.It says storage space running low when there is unused memory of more than 600Mb I installed an SD card but none of its memory's been used. Now I can't download or upload because of space limitations can anybody help?
rups, 30 Aug 2014Friends, i'm going to buy Lg L60 which offer 5mp camera wid led flash. It's packed with 1.2 gh... moreits pathetic
Friends, i'm going to buy Lg L60 which offer 5mp camera wid led flash. It's packed with 1.2 ghz prosessor & 512 mb ram. Here is my question. Is 512 ram enough for apps and games? What dificulty i should face with 512 ram??
It's very urgent. So help me.
HD and Gorilla glass protection are missing otherwise it could have been a nice phone
512MB RAM is not bad for KitKat..KitKat was created to run smoothly and decrease it's consumption on 512RAMs..But I think ASUS Zenfone 4 and 5 are way better than this because of its Intel Atom processor with Hyperthreadening Technology (which is faster than quadcores out there and sometimes even octacores) with decent 1GB RAM and 2GB RAM for z5..it's really worth your money that's why i'll buy 1 this Christmas :)


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Posted on Friday, October 4, 2013
by Jeanie Bartz
It has been a year and a half since my Mom passed away!I miss her so much I can hardly stand it!She was a few days away from turning 81...I know ...she lived a long life and was healthy up until about 4 years before that.I had always told my parents I would never put them in a nursing home...I did...and I'm feeling awful about it.My Mom passed away 4 months after placing her there..I watched her slowly die!!How can I stop feeling so awful about putting her in a nursing home???The day I took her there she turned to me and said,"I never thought YOU of all people would do this to me!"That flash back is a common thing...Jeanie
Sorry to hear that you feel so down about this - please be kind to yourself. Do you have any siblings?
Can you remind yourself of the reasons your mom needed nursing care? If someone needs care 24/7 to be safe and well, it is impossible for one person to cover that on their own.
Thanks for the response...as it turns out I only have one sibling...my sister.She is mentally challenged and has lived with my husband and for the past 11 years.I know I need to stop beating myself up over this.....
Let's share our stories and support each other!


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Computers help us become more efficient and productive because they make complex processes faster and easier to finish. Get the most out of your computer and devices by using tools and equipment that perfectly cater to your home or office needs with the LG Accessories.
The LG Accessories have a wide range of surge boards that are designed to protect your computers and devices from damage against sudden electrical power disturbances. Sudden power surges and spikes can corrupt your files, and worst of all, harm your computers and devices. The LG Surge Boards are equipped with surge-protected sockets that keep your files and valuable devices safe and sound, even when you encounter a sudden electrical fluctuation or power interruption. The surge board can accommodate up to four devices at a time. Each socket is colour coded, so you'll never get confused about which gadget needs to be switched off and which one stays on. Standby power contributes to about 10 per cent of most households' electric bill; the LG Surge Boards have individual switches so you can skip the hassle of unplugging each device after every use to conserve energy and save money.
Find all the tools you need for your computers and other devices in varying features, lengths, and capacities with the LG Accessories.
Microsoft 3LR-00011 Bluetooth Wedge Mouse - Recertified
Special Price: $28


text:
Lovely face and expression and pleasant lighting. I would prefer it if there was a little bit more space above the hair but as the crop is so tight I think you may as well crop out the peach/red colour behind the head and maybe the white on the right side although it does not worry me as much as the peach/red colour. (vertical crops)
You should try and get her to sit for a portrait session as she is a great little model.
Her face looks a little pasty? Or is it that it is the same tone as the background?
I love her expression, could ou adjust the lighting to separate the tones between her skin and the background?
Maybe clone out the red to the left and the white to the right? or closer crop the sides.
There is such nice detail on her hair and eyes. What a cutie! You've really captured a sense of honesty in her expression.
Thanks for posting.
Oh yes, Travis, this redo is lovely. She is such a cutie! I like that there is more color on her lips as well.
Hi Travis!
Please tell your Friend from me what a Sweetie Granddaughter he has!
And a very nice shot of her I might add. I would imagine your Friend would be very happy with this shot.
Id toss out a couple of suggestions here for your consideration if I may? Though I may be a little late to the Party!
The lighting looks a little flat from where Im sitting. A setting of the black and white points would go a long ways to help that. And setting the white balance off of a lighter spot on your gray background would also probably work well.
There is a little red corner of your background down in the lower left corner of the frame that might be better off not being there. I believe it may also be visible through her hair as well.
Also Friends Granddaughter has some stray flyaway hairs that I would lose if this were my shot. Some strays on her face, too.
I personally think this is an excellent classic pose and she has a great expression. But since her face is turned away from the camera, I probably would have asked myself if I would have liked it better if she were looking into the lens (or at least more toward it, eyes only- without turning her head. Or maybe have her head turned just slightly more toward the camera) to get her beautiful iris a bit more centered instead of looking hard into the corners of her eyes.
As always, I did a little retouch to see if any of these theories hold water before I post with any comments! Some of the other things I did while I was at it:
Removed blemishes
A wee bit of skin softening (and toned down a few of the spectrals on her face and corner of her right [camera left] eye). The softening just to get her skin tone a tad more even
Reduced (but not entirely removed) the darker rings under her eyes
Some selective sharpening
Some dodging & burning
A little vignetting
I would have gone to the wall and filled in the gaps in the left (camera right) side of her hair had the shot been mine, but Im just anal that way! As it stands, I did do one of them anyway! (I probably need to get this particular disorder looked into!) And in retrospect, I may have gotten a little sloppy on her neck area, but if one hadnt seen the first version one probably couldnt tell!
It appears that you have a 5:4 crop going on! Nice! I did a little crop just to see how getting her eyes closer to the upper third would play keeping your same aspect.
So hey Travis? If I've overstepped here, or if these suck, or both, I'll be more than happy to pull 'em with my most sincere apologies.
Either way you have a very nice shot here, Travis!
Thanks Terry ..always open to suggestions, that's why I post here. Problem with the second crop is her head is cropped off.
She's a very shy little girl and I did all I could do to get her to pose for me..we were at a party and I asked her mom if I could take some photos of her and of course she agreed. I only had a few minutes and got very few shots. This was one of the last ones. Her expression says to me "Are you done yet" Hopefully I can get her in a serious portrait setting and get her to open up a bit. What a great face ..thanks again.
This little girl would be a joy to have in front of a lens and with a face like that she is definitely portfolio stuff!
Not to mention a thrilled Moms and Grandpa!
As for the crop, I wasnt real sure if I liked it so much that way or not either, but there are a couple of options there at your same ratio. I noticed a nice ultra tight one with a portrait aspect crop, too. I might add that for a party setting I think you did a great job of getting a really good background. Not always an easy thing to do off the cuff for sure!
Please post generously Travis if you get a chance at her in your portrait setting. I will be looking forward to seeing Friends Granddaughter again!


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Events Calendar
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- FDC News – Winter 2018 (pdf)
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- FDC News – Summer 2017 (pdf)
- FDC News – Spring 2017 (pdf)
Social Media
If you are not satisfied with the way things are going in this country, and you'd like to do something to support progressive values, social justice, fiscal responsibility, and good governance, there are many ways you can help make a difference.
Show up at events and make your voice heard. The need to help politicians and fellow citizens understand where you stand on issues of importance does not begin or end with election day.
Contact your legislators, governor, and president. Let them know which issues you support or oppose, and why.
Write letters to the editor. Reach members of your local community via the news.
Spread the word through social media.
Knock on doors and speak with voters. Ask them who they support, tell them why you support candidates, and make sure they know where and when to vote.
Call voters. Ask them who they support, tell them why you support candidates, and make sure they know where and when to vote.
Help drive voters who need assistance to the polls on election days.
Please donate to the Francestown Democratic Committee via our page at ActBlue.
The Francestown Democratic Committee welcomes new members. If you are a resident of Francestown, NH, and are a Democrat or Independent (aka Undeclared) voter who wants to play a bigger role supporting the fight for progressive values and social justice, we welcome you to join us.
Bring us your values, your skills, your ideas for improvement, and your passion to get things done. We'll find a seat for you at the table.
Monthly meetings are usually held at the George Holmes Bixby Memorial Library at 10 AM on the second Saturday of each month. Be sure to check the Events Calendar for details.
We are residents of Francestown, NH who are unsatisfied with the status quo.
We believe in government of the people, by the people, and for the people, and we're not going to stop until we get it.
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Comments Off on Make yourself heard in Concord, then fight hunger at a Community Supper


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Bob Yeoman of B&R Compliance updates on the latest revisions to the Food Safety Modernization Act for 2016 and 2017, including who must comply, when, and how.
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The Dunedin doctor accused of murdering teenager Amber-Rose Rush has lost his bail appeal.
Venod Skantha, 30, is charged with murdering the 16-year-old, who was found dead in her Corstorphine home on February 2 this year.
Skantha - then a doctor at Dunedin Hospital - was charged days later and granted interim name suppression.
That lapsed in May after he pleaded not guilty to the charge, as well as a count of indecent assault and four of threatening to kill. (more…)
September 9th, 2018 |
Tags: Amber-Rose Rush, immigrant crime, Immigrant Doctor, Venod Skantha


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Place the rolled out dough on a hot skillet. When small bubbles appear on surface, flip the roti and cook on other side.
. Cook until both sides are well cooked, about 30-45 seconds on each side.
Serve rotis immediately or store them covered in a box lined with paper towel for up to 8 hours at room temperature.
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 ripe, medium avocado, peeled, pitted and mashed
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon powdered cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt ( add more, if needed)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro (optional)
1 tablespoon finely chopped mint leaves (optional)
1. In a large bowl mix together flour, salt and spices. Add cilantro and mint and mix well.
2. Stir in mashed avocado and lemon juice. Knead well to form a soft and non-sticky dough. Add little water, if needed.
3. Cover the dough with a damp kitchen towel and set aside for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6 equal sized balls. Roll between your hands till they are smooth and without cracks.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each ball into a circle of desired thickness.
6. Heat a skillet on medium heat and place the rolled out dough on the skillet. When small bubbles appear on the surface, flip the roti and cook on the other side.
7. Cook until both sides are well cooked, about 30-45 seconds on each side. If needed, you can add 1/4 teaspoon of oil or ghee.
8. Serve with Indian pickles and plain yogurt.


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The German online meat store 'Gourtmetfleisch' is offering a unique method of packaging beef broth.
Rather than offering the 'T-Bone Tea' broth in typical liquid, cube or powdered form wrapped in standard packaging, the online meat store did something much more memorable. The beef broth is stored in tea bags which are hung up on hooks that allow users to hang them in pots when they are cooking dishes that require the ingredient. The hooks are also used inside the packaging to hang up the individual sachets, directly referencing the ways in which butcher shops hang up their raw meat.
This beef broth packaging is highly creative without being over-the-top, acting as an excellent standout product for kitchens.
Beef Broth Teabags
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Plant-Based Meat Packaging
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These Teabags Are Inspired by Butcher Shops
- By: Mishal OmarOct 27, 2016
References: gourmetfleisch.de & packagingoftheworld
References: gourmetfleisch.de & packagingoftheworld


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There is no such thing as too much protection for your property. After all, your home is likely one of your biggest investments. If you have already installed an alarm system and added deadbolts to your doors but still do not feel safe, you should think about installing a steel security gate around your house. It might sound like a big investment right now, but the peace of mind you receive will be worth it. Here are seven good reasons to install a steel security gate around your home:
Deter Intruders and Burglars
The most obvious benefit of a steel security gate is its ability to keep intruders and burglars away. When there is a gate surrounding your property, it will make it extremely difficult for them to gain access to your home. Very few burglars are willing to climb over the fence because they are afraid of getting caught. You can also install an intercom on the gate, so you can speak to people who are trying to enter your home.
Protect Children and Pets
If you have small children or pets at home, you definitely want to think about installing a steel security gate. It will protect them from danger. When you let your kids play in the yard, you will not have to worry about them roaming into the street and potentially getting hit by a car. If your dog or cat escapes out of your home, it will at least be behind a gate and will not be able to roam into oncoming traffic on the street.
Lower Home Insurance Premiums
Cheaper home insurance premiums is another good reason to install a steel security fence around your property. Your insurance company will like the fact that you are making an effort to deter burglars from your home and may be willing to reduce your insurance rates. After you install the fence, take a photo of it and show it to your insurance company for proof.
Increase Curb Appeal
A high-quality steel security gate can also increase the curb appeal of your home. You can customize the gate so that it compliments your home well. When people drive past your house and see a security gate surrounding it, they will have a more positive impression of your home. When the time comes to sell your home, some buyers will appreciate the security it offers and may even offer you a higher price for it.
Control Parking
If you live on a large property, you may sometimes have to deal with other people parking on your driveway. This can be quite a nuisance. That is another reason why steel security gates are so beneficial. If you build a security gate around your entire property, you will not have to worry about others parking on your driveway without your permission.
Minimal Maintenance
Steel is more beneficial than other gate materials because it does not require a lot of maintenance. When you see insects or debris on your gate, all you have to do is wipe it down with a cloth and household cleaner.
Prevent Unwanted Visitors
Do you frequently experience solicitors coming to your door and selling you magazine subscriptions and various other services? If you are a private person and do not want to be bothered by unwanted guests, you have yet another reason to install a steel security gate. This gate will prevent these guests from coming to your door and ruining your privacy.
If you are ready to enjoy all the benefits that a steel security gate has to offer, have an experienced contractor install it soon.Share
13 September 2016
How secure your garage door is depends on several elements. How old is the garage door? How well is it maintained? Are there broken windows? Do you have a lock on the door? These are just a few things to check for to find out just how secure your garage door is. Chances are, the items that you store in your garage are of great value, and if they are stolen, they could be hard to replace. This blog is all about increasing garage security. You will learn when to replace the garage door, find out about the different kinds of locks and tips for making the garage as secure as it possibly can be.


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Candice Ware's Art
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Turtle Studies
I realized that I really didn't know how to draw turtles so I did a little study this past week and I really feel like I undertand them a lot better now. I enjoy doing little studies if I don't know how to draw something as well as I think I do. All drawings where drawn in my sketch book with col-erase then painted with water colours and gone over with black pen.
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We kicked off the implementation of our Reimagining IT Strategic Plan in fall 2017 after an in-depth planning process the One IT community undertook from October 2016 through June 2017. There are two groups helping to guide the Reimagining IT efforts going forward, the Program Planning Group and the Strategic Leadership Council. Our ReIT governance is working closely with campus-wide leadership to align our efforts with the Chancellor's goals as strategic planning for UC Berkeley is underway.
ReIT Governance
Program Planning Group (PPG)
Strategic Leadership Council
Ensure the success of the SLC:
Propose agendas;
coordinate communication with other campus governance groups and campus leaders;
ensure that SLC has a representative set of engaged members;
support SLC members and work to make the SLC is a highly successful governance group.
Update the Plan: Review and recommend major changes to the plan based on feedback from campus leaders and from the IT community.
Measures of Success: Help to define and choose the right measures of success for the plan's three central goals for this fiscal year and through FY 2020. We anticipate updating these measures on a yearly basis.
Prioritizing and Supporting Tactics: Choose and help to support the highest priority Tactics (projects) that will help us to realize the plan's goals.
Advise and Support the Re IT Program: Give overall advice on, and assess, the Reimagining IT Program so that we can best support the campus and the One IT community.
Larry D Conrad - Chair, AVC and CIO
David Greenbaum, Reimagining IT
Shelly Kleinschrodt, Reimagining IT
Liz Marsh, OCIO
Lyle Nevels, Deputy CIO
Jenn Stringer, Research, Teaching and Learning
Larry D Conrad - Chair, AVC / CIO
William Allison, CTO and IST-API
Angela Blackstone, SIS
Jon Conhaim, Technology Program Office
Patricia Donnelly, Law School
Eric Fraser, College of Engineering
David Fullmer, School of Social Welfare
David Greenbaum, Reimagining IT
Jon Hays, IST-API
Shelly Kleinschrodt, Reimagining IT
Liz Marsh, OCIO
Erik Mitchell, University Library
Neil Maxwell, VCRO
Lyle Nevels, Deputy CIO
Jenn Stringer, Research, Teaching and Learning
Mark Stuhr, Intercollegiate Athletics
Gerald Yerardi, Campus Shared Services IT
Decision Making Authority and Process
The SLC will function as follows:
We will reassess this approach after the external review is completed.
We welcome your input and feedback as we work together to implement the Reimagining IT Strategic Plan. Let us know if you are interested in getting involved with any of the projects or work being done in support of these efforts. Sign up for our mailing list to receive regular updates and identify new ways to get involved as they emerge. Just send a blank email to email@example.com(link sends e-mail).
Director, Reimagining IT
Program Manager, Reimagining IT


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Snowdrops traditionally are in flower every Sunday in February and what a joy they have been.
I don't know anyone who doesn't love them and over a number of years Pam and I have planted hundreds in our garden.
Sadly, because of the flooding at home last year we lost almost all of them in the centre of the garden because it was flooded for five weeks and the poor things drowned.
Would you like to grow some in your garden? Yes, you are thinking bulbs are normally planted in autumn, but these are tiny and I expect you have experienced disappointment because not many of them grew because they were dug out by squirrels, crows, cats or foxes.
This is a good time to buy 'snowdrops in the green'. This is a good description given to seedlings which can be bought from snowdrop specialists and you will see their adverts in gardening magazines. They cost about £10 per hundred.
If you have a street market you will be able to buy little bunches of doubles and singles. The single-flowered ones are cheaper and they produce seeds as well as baby bulbs.
Double snowdrops don't produce seeds but they do produce baby bulbs. But doubles don't produce drifts of flowers. If you want a good display buy the singles.
If you decide to buy some in the green keep in mind they look wonderful in a drift.
Mark out the area where they are to be planted and plant single seedlings with an apple corer. Plant the outside line of the design first followed by the infill.
If you don't have a street market you will be able to find snowdrops in little pots at garden centres. The flowers have finished, no one buys them and they are on special offer to get rid of them. This gives us another opportunity of introducing them into the garden. There will be several seedlings in the pots, don't break up the roots, simply plant them in a drift.
Have a good look at the tops of each stem and choose ones with plump seed heads. The seeds will fall on to your garden and they will have flowers in a couple of years.
If you have a wonderful display in your garden and would like to move them, the best time to do this is as soon as they finish flowering but while the leaves are still green. When they are dug out, the length of the roots is always quite a surprise because they are often a foot long. Dig out a clump and use fingers and thumbs to separate the bulbs.
Every bulb, even the tiniest ones, will produce a flower next year. Plant the bulbs in a drift and ensure they are planted deeply so all the white bases and part of the green leaves are buried too so that the leaves won't flop all over the ground.
Next year, there will be flowers on the snowdrops every Sunday in February.
This is the last chance to move shrubs and trees from one part of the garden to another. Make sure you choose a nice day. You would be surprised how many people leave this job until it is too late.


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Neuromodulators and biomimetic peptides are coming in USA. You will hear more about these superb
anesthetic molecules for skin augmentation. Recently the cosmetic media named them "the new anti aging buzz". I produced my first facial kit EWR serum and cream with neuromodulators
back in October 2004 and shortly after a few aestheticians from Beverly Hills named
the facial kit "the red carpet facial". It's
a quick fix, it tightens neck, face even upper arms, it gives the skin an
amazing glow, it does it all." Recently the cream was reformulated with a new emollient previously not available to optimize the efficacy. I also produced the Pro-10X Bee Venom Instant
Glow mask (all natural) to accolade the facial kit. New studies have
proved the numerous skin benefits of medical apitherapy, topical use of natural biomimetic peptides derived from bees
for improvement of skin texture, metabolic activity and in general skin quality. In USA apitherapy is consider the use of raw-honey but in fact
in Europe is more like using the extracts from raw honey and the bee-mother aka
epigen. The mask is no-rinse a complete absorption with superb rejuvenation
skin benefits, recommend as a sleeping mask and perfect for long flights. It's the best facial muscle fitness
that last approximately 7-8 hours after application.


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Adding color to your hair can make you look fabulous and put a little extra bounce in your step. However, there are certain ways to maintain your colored hair and here are seven helpful tips that will keep you looking beautiful.
Wait Before Washing
It is recommended that you wait to wash your hair for at least two full days (48 hours) after it has been colored at your hair salon. And when you shower during that period, keep your hair dry with a shower cap. Remember, washing your hair too often can…
Find the full article at https://thecolorbarhairsalonwaxhaw.blogspot.com/2017/11/7-important-tips-on-caring-for-your.html


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By Tyler Knudtson
The best Airbnb hosts do one thing better than their less-successful counterparts.
But it's much simpler than you might think.
What is it?
They do what other successful hosts have done.
Yep. That's it.
Rather than try to figure out everything on their own through trial and (lots of) error, successful hosts find the best Airbnb tips for hosts and put them into practice themselves.
They essentially cheat off of the notes of those already at the head of the class.
But there's still one problem for new hosts: Sifting through all the so-called "tips and tricks" posted online, then deciding which Airbnb advice is actually worth following, takes time. Lots of time.
Until now.
In this guide, I'm handing you the best Airbnb listing tips on the web so you can skip to the front of the line and become successful on day one.
>> View the complete guide for FREE. <<


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Amazon recently announced that it is rolling out the Alexa app for iPhones. And you don't even need Echo to use it on iPhone. This means that you can now directly speak via iOS. All you need to do is download the Amazon App and tap on the 'speak' button. Immediately it answers to your queries about news updates, online orders, music.
Till now Amazon's Alexa was limited because one had to be near Echo to make all these demands. Thanks to its latest update, you no longer need Echo. Use your iPhone to get all these done. Except there is one problem – there is already Siri for all these things in your iPhone. Amazon doesn't seem to care as it has rolled out the app for the iOS users.
Amazon's Expanding features on Alexa
You can use this feature to play various media, watch movies, and listen to music or audio books. But it is worth mentioning that you can take advantage only if you subscribe to Amazon's Prime Music, Video, etc. features. Those who use Echo can still use this to integrate their Alexa skills into it.
But it is worth noting that Amazon is trying hard to expand Alexa's reach. The e-commerce giant has recently sought support to expand its virtual assistant. It struck a deal with Huawei, which it revealed in January. Apparently, you can integrate Alexa with Mate 9 handsets from Huawei now.
Also Read: Chrome 57 Offers Longer Battery And "Read Later" Feature On iOS
But will Alexa beat Siri?
Amazon doesn't seem to hold back. Apple has been diligently trying to improve Siri. Recently, Siri got some drastic upgrades. Its recent update has made it more conversational and easy to interact with. But iPhone does not have its own smart home device yet. This is one aspect Amazon can leverage on. You can download the Amazon App on iOS later this week.
Alexa cannot be used as a standalone app, though. Siri can be – which can become a plus point for the Siri users. You need to launch the Amazon App every time to use Alexa via this app. Rumors suggest that the Amazon App will get another update. It will allow Alexa to distinguish the users by the sound of their voice.
Amazon App Voice ID
The new 'Voice ID' feature will make it easier to do song requests. It will deliver personalized experiences. The Voice ID will also help Amazon App keep track of the adults. This means that a child cannot suddenly end up buying a lot of useless stuff. It could also contribute to tailoring the weather and news information as per the tastes of the different users.
Other reports suggest that Amazon App will allow you to make voice calls and receive them. Currently, you can make voice calls via Alexa through voice commands. This feature might also evolve to become a long range intercom service around the world. It will connect in the same way it does right now using Echo.


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DICTUM is about extra than just tools - For greater than a hundred and sixty a long time, DICTUM has actually been giving an in depth selection of equipment, like backyard instruments, elements, finishes along with knives to the kitchen and for outdoor use that meet the highest requirements and needs.
Correct 256-bit SSL certification assures the safety and confidentiality of all our consumers' information.
The abroad shipping and delivery with a great monitoring just 4 days for Italy is something which a professional vendor of Axminster can give you. It's really a usefull equipment and revenue well put in !!!!!! Features
We've been delighted to incorporate a greetings card with a personal message coupled with your gift. Your reward are going to be wrapped attractively and despatched to your deal with you delivered.
If you purchase the LV and judge in 6 months you actually required the LN, market the LV (or vice versa). These planes keep their worth and with slightly endurance inside the sale and negotiation you can be out only about 10% of the buy rate. Think about that to be a rental fee.
You may undoubtedly argue that a pointy chisel plus a mallet will do the exact same work but, for consistent mortise depths,
My inquiries are: has any individual utilised the new router plane - and what do they imagine it?; So how exactly does its Procedure Examine to conventional router plane designs?; and is also it worth the expense of admission?
Comprehensive Delivery Info Click the link > We all know there might be a time when you need to Trade or return an merchandise. We offer a 35 day No quibble returns plan.
Bronze and brass alloys have lead, a chemical acknowledged to your Condition of California to lead to most cancers and beginning defects, or other reproductive hurt. Wash hands soon after handling.
It planes the bottoms of recesses to your uniform depth and will perform into corners that may be attained only by the usage of a chisel.
How the multipurpose Veritas medium router plane is certain to become a favourite. To find out more check out: ...
Features sharpening pass Products marked using this image have a sharpening pass, which entitles you to two absolutely free sharpenings. Just ship us your chopping Instrument with its sharpening move and We'll sharpen it cost-free and return it inside of a couple of days. All you veritas medium router plane spend could be the shipping and delivery expenses.
The Veritas comes with two blades (in Europe? Or maybe it used to be be a few blades…), straight and place 1/two inch, and no fence. The more substantial blades dismount with the stem in order to simplicity sharpening, provided is actually a jig that lets you position the iron in a normal honing guideline.
Tooling requires a long time to provide, and is dear....we just can not go much too immediately. We also have to combine the new stuff into our manufacturing schedules - and new merchandise is considerably disruptive... but it is a excellent disruption!
Top Guidelines Of veritas small router plane
DICTUM is about extra than just tools - For greater than a hundred and sixty a long time, DICTUM has actually been giving an in depth selection of equipment, like backyard instruments, elements, finishes along with knives to the kitchen and for outdoor use that meet the highest requirements and needs.


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So you might have heard of a website call Pinterest. I'm had my account for about a year, and I absolutely love it. I'm sure if I spent all the time on Pinterest for other things I would be a billion times more accomplished.
But here are some really sweet pins that I've seen recently.
For my nerd stuff board:
|From the artofgaming on Tumblr
|From Anita at tardisboard,proboards.com
Okay last one from my nerd Board. Not sure if this counts as a nerd think but...
|From mathieuhervouet on Flickr
Now from my Cute Craft Board:
I really like this, although I know I won't ever make it, because it would take forever and I would use those pins for sewing projects. I really enjoy the concept.
|From Martin at Behance.net
|From oneaviandaemon
|From Martha Stewart
That's all for now I think it's a good spot to stop. I might make more posts like this to show you more about the stuff that inspires me, and that I find pretty
Much love,


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for independent travel. SOTG is a great place
to meet others interested in travel and more.
Enjoy, not only group travel abroad, but local social
gatherings as well. SOTG encourages its members to
participate in its various clubs and committees.
Our members are a wealth of knowledge
gained through first hand experience
travelling the world.
We are a Travel Club for solo travelers, we offer a variety of opportunities for its members by sponsoring two or three International and national trips each year, including cruises, to a variety of destinations. Diverse one-day trips and get-a-ways are also organized for your enjoyment.
Three nights in Cape Cod, three nights in Nantucket. Visit parks, museums, historical sites, beaches, salt marshes, and cranberry bogs. Ride on roads and bike trails. The summer tourists won't be here yet so we'll have the whole place to ourselves!
We invite you to join Grand Circle Travel's "The Great Rivers of Europe" July 2019:
Pre-registration procedures have been sent to those who signed the Trip Interest Sheet. Please see co-trip leaders, Norma and Dottie at the Travel Table at the Sunday SOTG meeting to sign the Trip Interest Sheet if you haven't already done so.
This land tour is planned for late September/early October of 2019 in hopes of seeing the seasons change.
It will include 14 days/13 nights of travel to this beautiful part of North America. You will fly into Halifax, Nova Scotia and begin your journey with Grand Circle tours.
With Grand Circles' excellent local guides, we will visit Nova Scotia, Prince Edwards Island, New Brunswick and St James.
Croatia, Montenegro,Bosnia & Herzegovina
"Explore the Dalmatian Coast in the winter when the crowds are less and the weather is milder, on or about Nov.14-29, 2019 with Grand Circle Travel"
5 days from $3395 (2018 price) including International Air from Tampa, unless you choose to make your own airline arrangements. 14 days from $2195 (2018 pricing)
SOTG Members are encouraged to participate in any of our committees.
Organizations benefit greatly from the participation of members. In turn, members who are actively involved in an organization find it far more enjoyable. We encourage you to take this opportunity to put your unique skills to use.
We encourage those interested in finding out more about Singles On The Go by attending one of our meetings.*
*Travel excluded.
Additionally, by leaving your email address above, we will be happy to contact you via email with additional information.
Download our Member Application
Monthly meetings on the 2nd Sunday of the month. Meet and socialize at 2:30pm, meeting 3:00-4:00.
*except in July, August or December
Faith Church
1201 N. Beneva Rd.
Sarasota, FL 34232


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I've only recently started messing around on KGS, and mostly I watch other people's games to learn a thing or two; for the most part my online play has been on IGS/Pandanet, until now. My switch to KGS is because it simply is easier to navigate, and they have a South African room as well as an Esperantujo room; IGS might have those as well, but if I've got to click more than a predetermined number of times to get there, I won't get there.
So I played a teaching game with a 3k, under the watchful eye of a 1d, with a 9 stone handicap; the outcome was… well of course I lost, severely, but I learned a few things here and there. The outcome is here on the right. My usual attempt to take the corners went nowhere, though I managed to secure quite a bit in the middle; his invasion à la Omaha beach was thwarted by some over-defensive playing, which of course lost me even more territory in other places. You give, you get I guess, though I gave a lot more than I got…
Final results:
White 176.5 (terr. 121 | capt. 49 | 6.5 komi)
Black 77 (terr. 64 | capt. 13)
What was interesting about this, is that it was the first time I've used a timing system, byoyomi in this case… I'm not so sure how that all works yet, or if it was really active; all I know is that every time I was approaching 30 seconds when it was my turn my laptop started vomiting beeps and flashes. There are a few cases where I just plainly made the wrong move because of it, though that in the end wouldn't have influenced the outcome that much I think.
Overall, I think the issues is my understanding of the basics of the game; beyond the actual rules that is. Therefore, I've ordered Go for Beginners by