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The term Indo Pacific gained a lot of traction after the President of the United States (US), Donald Trump, used it repeatedly to highlight his country's foreign policy posture in this region as opposed to the regularly used term, Asia Pacific. The reason for doing so would seem simple enough – to contain China's rise.
Linguistics is a cardinal factor in diplomacy and through the use of the term Indo Pacific the Trump administration has sought to realign the focal point of a region which is increasingly being courted by Beijing's orbit of influence. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) – the grand infrastructure ambitions of Chinese President, Xi Jinping – has noticeably raised the eyebrows of the US and its allies which have always been ambivalent of Beijing's intentions and plans. Besides that, the US has also been increasingly wary of China's aggressiveness with regards to its maritime claims in the region.
Another key development which took place alongside the calls for a "free and open Indo-Pacific," was the re-emergence of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad. The Quad, which is made up of the US, Australia, Japan and India is not an old idea – having been first mooted by Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe in 2007.
Source: RSIS Commentaries
A shifting regional order
These developments point to a shift within the regional order.
Since the end of the Second World War, the US has always maintained a "hub and spokes" relationship with countries on this side of the world. The relationship meant that East Asian countries could gain access to the American market and in return, the US, gained strategic geopolitical partners in this region.
In recent times, the US has ensured the continuity of this dynamic even when less attention was paid to this region during the Bush administration. However, when Barack Obama was in the Oval Office, he turned US attention back to East Asia amidst growing concerns that China was fast establishing itself as the regional hegemon.
Nevertheless, in a post-Cold War era, great power states like the US and China can't afford to only take the path of hard diplomacy. Hence, over the past few years, we saw both sides pulling out all the stops with displays of leadership charisma to grand banquets in order to woo states to their side.
Herein, the regional order once based on the "hub and spokes" system has changed to reflect what Gilford John Ikenberry, Professor of Politics and International Affairs at the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, calls a "dual hierarchy." It is characterised by a security hierarchy led by the US and an economic one by China with both powers competing for the loyalties of smaller states.
"In the end, it will be the middle states that have the ability to shift the regional order in one direction or the other - or to make choices to preserve the double hierarchy," Ikenberry postulated.
Staying central
In order to preserve the delicate balance between the two, states must continue to rely on China for economic gain while not completely shunning the US, allowing for their security presence as a bulwark against Beijing.
Member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have seemingly mastered the art of centrality – a cornerstone tenet of the organisation – by welcoming Chinese investments via the BRI which would aid their own individual development agendas. Besides that, except for Cambodia, other ASEAN member states have continued to maintain good strategic security ties with the US and its Quad counterparts against Chinese maritime assertiveness.
Ultimately, whether Indo Pacific or Asia Pacific, foreign policy is no longer a zero-sum game – especially for smaller states like ASEAN's members. There is no shame in polygamy within the rubrics of international relations, but, in balancing the interests of a state against prevailing great power rivalry, it is difficult to delineate exactly the boundaries to which beyond that, a state falls within the sphere of influence of either great power.
Perhaps this is where linguistics plays a role. When there is a need to decipher the allegiance of a state, one need only listen and look out for the use of either term or both.


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|My Account Tip Center Report
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text:
Once again the mind of a brute struck me!
The exasperating feeling of my body becoming lighter. The likelihood of my footsteps landing softer on pavement. The ailing reflection of an aura becoming comforted by much refinement in femininity.
I don't question the bully who mocks my pacing of an indecisive vista of a prize to be earned. I plunge uncertain in the continuous reel of a rampant stomach bloated like a tub full of fat-bellied quadruplets with my menstrual cycle stringing my hormones in high streaks similar to the musical score of The Shining.
I qualm in a horrid practice of running around every inch of the apartment as if my ass caught fire and all the imaginative ants dropped onto the floor burnt over self-indulgent panic attacks and suddenly I'm at square one bemused due to the fear and speculation of losing weight.
Why am I dieting better?
All day and night I've dressed in layers of overbearing shapeless clothing in attempts to hide any inch that might have been vanished from sight. I'm utterly exhausted in this heat and humidity of both my bloody rotation and the gloom of New York City weather copying the cat of Seattle.
I dislike the idea, the thought and the response of being remotely skinny.
Shrinking down into the thought of centimeters torments my fragile ego. I feel like at any moment I'll drown and disappear resembling the Wicked Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz except water wouldn't be the offender in this self-made barrier.
Is physical existence vastly different from my mass taking up space on Earth?
(I'm unfamiliar about Science.)
Stupidly and viciously I jumble the idea of 'size and weight' as if they equal to muscle defeat when they don't. But in this fictitious brain of mine I cannot get over this cemented design as of yet. Sooner or later I must breakthrough one of my mental hurdles.
Like my Partner in Crime has stated, 'You shouldn't be resistant to the idea of losing weight as long as it's the right kind.' But many concepts are easier declared than done.


text:
Order Your Revitalash To Grow Longer Lashes Now
Developed my a medical doctor, an MD, better yet a doctor who is a specialist in eyes or an opthamologist for his wife who was recovering from Cancer. He wanted to give her a gift that would bring back not only her beauty but her self esteem and confidence. So successful was his attempt that people started asking about this product and it turned into a business.Portions of the proceeds from RevitaLash® sales go to benefit non-profit breast cancer research and education initiatives.
"Often we feel helpless when someone we love is suffering. I am very fortunate, in my own small way, to have been able to help Gayle through her recovery. Watching her be excited about her beautiful looking eyelashes has been a real joy."
— Michael Brinkenhoff, M.D.


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Nov. 1, 2017
Maintain access to essential resources throughout the year and renew now.
We appreciate your support of AGA and don't want you to lose any of your benefits. If you haven't already — renew today. Membership renewal is due Dec. 1.
If you do not renew by the deadline, you will lose access to some of the most comprehensive and reliable resources in GI. This includes journal and publication subscriptions along with discounted Digestive Disease Week® (DDW) registration, members-only access and discounts on AGA programs, products and services. Don't delay — renew now.
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Kroodsma, D.[David]
Co Author Listing * Cross-Matching VIIRS Boat Detections with Vessel Monitoring System Tracks in Indonesia
Kroodsma, R.[Rachael]
Co Author Listing * Fundamental Climate Data Records of Microwave Brightness Temperatures
Kroodsma, R.A.
Co Author Listing * CoSMIR Performance During the GPM OLYMPEX Campaign
* Extension of Vicarious Cold Calibration to 85-92 GHz for Spaceborne Microwave Radiometers
* Vicarious Cold Calibration for Conical Scanning Microwave Imagers
Krooks, A.[Anssi]
Co Author Listing * Accuracy in estimation of timber assortments and stem distribution: A comparison of airborne and terrestrial laser scanning techniques
* Automated 3D Scene Reconstruction from Open Geospatial Data Sources: Airborne Laser Scanning and a 2D Topographic Database
* Change Detection of Tree Biomass with Terrestrial Laser Scanning and Quantitative Structure Modelling
* Monitoring Changes in Rice Cultivated Area from SAR and Optical Satellite Images in Ben Tre and Tra Vinh Provinces in Mekong Delta, Vietnam
* Radiometric Calibration of Terrestrial Laser Scanners with External Reference Targets
* Radiometric Calibration of TLS Intensity: Application To Snow Cover Change Detection
* Seamless Mapping of River Channels at High Resolution Using Mobile LiDAR and UAV-Photography
* Topographic and Distance Effects in Laser Scanner Intensity Correction
* Using Stationary And Mobile Laser Scanner To Detect Forest Defoliation
* Using Stationary And Mobile Laser Scanner To Detect Forest Defoliation
* WebGL Visualisation of 3D Environmental Models Based on Finnish Open Geospatial Data Sets
Includes: Krooks, A.[Anssi] Krooks, A.
11 for Krooks, A.
Kroon, B.[Bart]
Co Author Listing * Accurate eye localization in low and standard definition content
* Comparison of face matching techniques under pose variation
* Eye localization for face matching: is it always useful and under what conditions?
* Eye localization in low and standard definition content with application to face matching
Kroon, H.M.
Co Author Listing * Interactive Histogram Equalization
Kroon, L.
Co Author Listing * Deduction of Passengers' Route Choices From Smart Card Data
Kroon, W.[Wilco]
Co Author Listing * Constitutive Modeling of Cardiac Tissue Growth
* How to Choose Myofiber Orientation in a Biventricular Finite Element Model?
Index for "k"


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"We live in a dark time, while jokers blinded by power cast a shadow of despair over the land, our people crouch in run-down huts, the children do not dance and the birds are silent, hope is destroyed.
Where are the heroes who need this world, the heroes who deserve this world?
Leave the despair behind, friends, for the tide will turn! We're men in tight costumes and we're ready to fight any weapon our ancestors left us – the guitar ax, the drum gavel, the jeweled seat and the piercing howl of anger.
And we will not be intimidated by the No-Speakers, nor will we be lured by the financiers, nor will we be silenced by the stench of the indifference of these jokes of rulers. When the day comes, the band comes. We are The Darkness and we bring you the light!
This is the first day of our new world, and EASTER IS CANCELED! Let's start … death or glory, my friends, what will it be?
Place: Simm City Festsaal Zentrum Simmering, Simmeringer Hauptstraße 96a., 1110 WIEN
Date: 10.2. 2020
Start: 20:00
Admission: 37€
More info
Simmeringer Hauptstraße 96A, Simmering 1110 Viedeň, RakúskoPrice


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The Heartbreakers - Episode 5
- Publish Date
- Thursday, 12 July 2018, 12:00PM
Welcome to The Heartbreakers - a podcast where Brodie Kane, Gracie Taylor and Caitlin Marett take a deep dive into all the drama of Heartbreak Island.
This week was the final! We made it! The team chat to winners Harry and Georgia about how they took out the competition.
And what's more, is there is a second season of Heartbreak Island coming to TVNZ 2! How exciting!


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The Chapter on the Prohibition of Arrogance and Self-Conceit : Explanation of Imam Nawawi's Riyadh Saliheen (Shaykh Muhammad bin Saleh al Uthaymeen)
An in-depth explanation of Riyadh us-Saleheen's chapter on the prohibition of arrogance and self-conceit.
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The Chapter on Moderation in Acts of Obedience & Preserving Deeds : Explanation of Imam Nawawi's Riyadh Saliheen (Shaykh Muhammad bin Saleh al Uthaymeen)
An in-depth explanation of Riyadh us-Saleheen's chapter on moderation in acts of obedience and preserving deeds.
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A selection of ahaadeeth from the most authentic book after the Qur'aan to soften the hearts in our chests.
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A thorough explanation of Soorah An-Naba.
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An important explanation of the rights of Allah, the Prophet (sallahu allahi wasallam)?, parents, children, relatives, spouses, and many more.
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Detailed explanation of Hadith 54-59 of Riyaadh Saliheen in which the virtue of truthfulness is examined.
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A short yet concise manual on the legal rulings of marriage authored by one of the beacons of light in his time, Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen (rahimahullaah).
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Arousing the Intellects with the Explanation of 'Umdatul Ahkaam and The Book of Taharah, the Ritual Purification (Allaamah Muhammad ibn Saalih al Uthaymeen)
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A Summary of al-Qawl al-Mufid (The Explanation of Kitab at-Tawhid) (Ash Shaykh Muhammad bin Salih al Uthaymeen)
A summary of the book Al-Qawl Al-Mufid Sharh Kitab At-Tawhid by Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymin.
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Youths' Problems : Issues that Affect Young People Discussed in the Light of the Qur'an and Sunnah (Shaykh Muhammad Salih al Uthaymeen)
Addresses some of the ideological and sociological challenges faced by the modern youth today.
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Fiqh of Worship (Purification, Doctrine, Salat, Zakat, Siyam, Hajj) (Shaykh Muhammad Salih ibn al Uthaymeen) GREEN/BROWN COVER
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Short concise booklet discusses how the prayer is the 2nd most important pillar, is numerous benefits & rewards, and much more.
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Exemplary Principles Concerning the Beautiful Names and Attributes of Allaah (Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Saalih al Uthaymeen)
Provides a detailed description of the principles of Allah's names and Attributes while clarifying misconceptions formed over the years regarding Allah's names and Attributes.
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Commenary on the famous treatise written by Shaykh-ul-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah that clarifies the beliefs of ahl-us-sunnah wal-jama'ah.
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Intended to be an important companion to the sincere student of knowledge; highlighting the virtues of seeking knowledge, the etiquettes of doing so and the means which assist in acquiring knowledge
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Upright Moral Character : A Concise Guide to Attaining Dignified Islaamic Character (Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen)
Guidelines based on the conduct of the Messenger of Allah (pbuh).
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Fatawa : Essential Rulings for Every Muslim Woman (Ibn Maqbool Husain)
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Uses verses from the Qur'an and Sunnah in showing how the woman (sister) can improve and upgrade a society.
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Explains in great detail Imam an-Nawawee's Forty Ahadeeth, giving the many benefits of each Ahadeeth at the end of each chapter.
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Islamic Verdicts on the Pillars of Islam : Volume 1 Creed & Prayer and Volume 2 Prayer, Zakah, Fasting, Hajj (2-in-1 book) "Arkan ul Islam"
Legal rulings by the mufti of Saudi Arabia.
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English translation of "Min Thamaratit al-Taqwa."
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Collection of legal rulings, based on the opinions of scholars & muftis in Saudi Arabia.
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Explanation of the Three Fundamental Principles of Islaam (Hardcover) Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen
Written in order to convey to every Muslim that which is obligatory upon him to know.
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Examines the four principles of Shirk that Allah has mentioned in the Quran.
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An Explanation of Muhammad ibn Abdul Wahhab's Four Principles of Shirk (Abdullah ibn Jibrin, Salih al-Shaykh, and others)
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The Foundations of Islam : Being a Translation of "Masa'il al Jahiliyyah allati Khalfa fiha Rasulullah Ahal'l Jahiliiyya" with Accompanying Arabic Text (Imam Muhammad ibn Abdul Wahhab)
Consists of 128 aspects that the disbelievers adhered to at the time of the advent of Prophet Muhammad (SAWS).
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Though small in size, this mighty book contains numerous beneficial points pertaining to Tawheed, sincerity, unity, and a warning against Shirk.
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Wahhabi Islam : From Revival and Reform to Global Jihad, A Study of Muhammed ibn Abdul Wahhab (Natana J. Delong-Bas)
An in-depth study of the written works of al-Wahhab that focuses on four areas: theology, legal theory, proselytizing through education and jihad, and the laws on women.
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A fair and accurate presentation of the life and teachings of the famous Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhaab.
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This book contains three little known epistles by Muhammad ibn 'Abd al Wahhab written toward the end of his career.
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An explanation of a short treatise on the illustrious sooratul-faatihah.
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The Obligation of the Servant When Allah Commands Him A Command : Explanation of the Treatise (Sh. Muhammad Abdul Wahab)
A brief treatise that enlightens the reader on the obligations of the servant towards Allah.
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Explanation of the 'Aqeedah of the Imaam, the Reformer, Muhammad ibn Abdul Wahhaab (Dr. Saalih Ibn Fawzaan al Fawzaan)
Excellent book on the treatise written by Muhammad Ibn Abdul-Wahhaab explaining that his aqeedah (creed) was of Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamaa'ah and nothing else.
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Kitab At Tawhid (Imam Muhammed ibn Abdul-Wahab) The Book of Monotheism Kitab al Tauhid Tawheed Wahab Wahhab
The essence of the Qur'an and Sunnah is placed in a very simple and appealing manner.
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The Book of Tawheed Explained : Kitab At-Tawheed : New and Revised 3rd Edition (By Muhammad Ibn Abdul-Wahhab)
A compilation of Qur'anic Verses, Prophetic Ahaadeeth, and narrations of the Salaf related to Islamic Monotheism.
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Kitab At-Tauhid (Full Color Edition) The Book of Tawheed (Oneness of Allah) (Shaikhul-Islam Muhammad bin Abdul-Wahhab)
New full color edition of Kitab At-Tauhid - the most authentic source of information related to Islamic monotheism.
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Commentary on the Three Fundamental Principles of Islam : English translation of (Muhammad bin 'Abdul-Wahhab)
A clear explanation of the basic principles we should all know about our religion by the famous Muhammad bin 'Abdul-Wahhab.
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The Three Treatises : Shaykh ul Islam Muhammad bin Abdul Wahhaab's Introduction to Three Fundamental Principles Explained (Shaykh Dr. Saalih bin Fawzaan al Fawzaan)
An explanation of the Three Fundamental Principles written by Shaykh-ul-Islam Muhammad Bin Abdul Wahhaab as explained by Shaykh Dr. Saalih bin Fawzaan al Fawzaan.
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An Explanation of the Conditions, Pillars, and Requirements of Prayer of the Imaam and Mujaddid Muhammad bin Abdil Wahhaab (Shaykh Muhammad Amaan al Jaamee, Shaikh Abdul Muhsin al Abbaad)
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The Explanation of the Comprehensive Worship Exclusively for Allah Alone (Shaykhul Islam Muhammad bin Abdul-Wahhaab)
A concise booklet detailing the meaning, purpose, and obligatory rights of tawheed.
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Teaching Children Tawheed : A Guide to What is Obligatory Upon Us to Teach Our Children (Shaykhul-Islaam Muhammad bin 'Abdu-Wahhaab)
Illustrates the way of Ahlus-Sunnah in various aspects of child-rearing, from establishing the proper environment in the home and teaching them the correct belief and methodology, to marrying off one's daughters.
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An Explanation of the Four Rules Regarding Shirk of the Imaam and Mujaddid Muhammad bin Abdil Wahhab (Council of Ulema including Bin Baaz, Fawzaan, Luhaydaan, Raajihee, Najmee, Madkhalee, al Shaikh, ar Rayyis)
Consists of the four fundamental rules in which one can distinguish a believer from a disbeliever and a polytheist from a monotheist.
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Always ship fast, and great books! ... read more


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Cleveland Funeral Home & Cremation Services announces that Ronald William (Ron) Firestine, 72, passed away peacefully at home on July 21st, 2019. Born in Irvington, New Jersey on January 18, 1947, he spent most of his young life in Miami, Florida before moving to Georgia in 1982 where he lived for the remainder of his life, settling in Cleveland, GA in 2014. He worked in the automotive industry for 50 years, and his hobbies included working on cars, watching WWII documentaries and Atlanta Braves games, and spending time with his grandchildren. He will be missed for his long, meaningful conversations, his sage advice, and his love of cooking Italian food. He is survived by his wife of almost 33 years, Janet; two daughters, Kathi and Kasey; one son, Cory; and two grandsons, Cooper and Jackson.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ronald Firestine, please visit our floral store.


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Fullmetal Alchemist
Availability: This product is currently out of stock.
Overview: Fullmetal Alchemist
Search hundreds of online stores that deliver to Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Canberra, Perth, and all over Australia and find the best offers for Fullmetal Alchemist book. Only on ShopMania you can find the lowest Fullmetal Alchemist prices available, learn about the latest discounts and compare books deals. Here you can browse through the Fullmetal Alchemist photo gallery, find out all about its features and specs and read the product reviews and user comments from our community.


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Butler Lumber
Butler Lumber Company is looking for more cash due to a fast-paced lumber market and a shortage of funding. Their regular bank, Suburban National Bank, is not willing to expand their exiting loan to an amount greater than $250,000 without securing the loan with real property. Another loan is being offered by a second bank, Northrup National Bank, for $465,000, with the understanding that the previous loan would be rolled into the second. The interest on the new loan would be prime + 2%.
The co-founder, Mark Butler, owes a major note to the other original partner, who Mark bought out. He has a mortgage on his 12-year-old house and no other significant investments. Mark's personal references indicate that he is hard-working and watches his business very closely.
Mark's current outstanding debts are as follows:
Bank note for $247,000
Outstanding debt from trade partners $157,000
Accounts payable $343,000
Accrued expenses $51,000
Current portion of long-term debt $7,000
Long-term debt $43,000
Total liabilities $848,000
Net income is projected at $56,000 based on projected sales of $3.6m. Butler's business relies more heavily on the repair industry than on new construction, so it is somewhat protected against market fluctuations on new construction.
Major recommendations
Northrup National Bank should extend the loan to Butler. The company will roll much of its existing debt into the new loan, without extending itself significantly further than it currently is, and at a more favorable rate. Butler has been successful in keeping current on its debts, and based on projections should have the means to start paying these debts down. From the bank's perspective, there's little risk involved. With the industry expected to grow so much in the next year, Butler will be in a strong position, and potentially interested in borrowing more at the end of 1991.
Butler Lumber Co. should take the short term loan and if necessary roll the $157,000 trade credit into it.
Nature of the problem
Butler's short-term loan options are completely maxed out, so the company has no cash flexibility. Inventory levels indicate Mark is ramping up in expectation of the massive influx of sales in the warmer months. More of Butler's sales are in the warm months, when repairs are easier to make in the Inland Northwest. The loan will give Butler the ability to finance more inventory to meet the expected growth in sales.
Why does Mr. Butler have to borrow money to support his profitable business? Theoretically, according to the balance sheet, no additional funding is necessary to meet the growth in sales in 1991. In fact, the balance sheet shows that Mark can pay down his debt by $33,000. However, there are advantages to borrowing additional funds to improve his cash flexibility and to consolidate his debt at a lower interest rate.
Do you agree with his estimate of the company's loan requirements? Butler can meet their expected sales without additional funding. If the goal is to eliminate the trade debt, while maintaining the current bank note at $247,000, Mr. Butler would need an additional $124,000, the remaining balance after subtracting $33,000 from the trade credit of $157,000. But the current bank will not offer this additional funding, which would then come to $371,000, resulting in the discussions with Northrup.
As Mr. Butler's financial advisor, would you urge him to go ahead with or reconsider his anticipated expansion and his plans for additional financing? We feel that Butler should go ahead with the anticipated expansion because the business is profitable and growing. However, as shown above, this will require additional working capital to meet his current obligations to his lender and suppliers. Current liabilities total $404,000, so the credit line under consideration will provide additional financial flexibility, which is needed...
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March Sales: How Retailers Fared
Many large retailers reported their March sales numbers this week, with most of them coming out the morning of Thursday, April 8. Following an announcement last May, Wal-Mart and its units no longer publish monthly sales figures. Updates to come as more retailers report sales. (Last updated April 8, 2010) Also, see February's chart.
Click Continue Reading for a chart sortable by company name, category, change in total or same-store sales, and total sales.


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Marjorie Searcy is a vocal coach and the creator of the Middle Voice Method. She has been singing professionally and coaching singers for over 25 years. Marjorie has helped thousands of singers learn simple, practical techniques for overcoming vocal difficulties. Her method helps singers increase their range, improve their tone, flexibility and control while eliminating strain. Marjorie's clients include pop, country and contemporary Christian music artists as well as professional musical theatre performers, actors, and radio, and TV personalities. She has coached singers who have been featured on The Voice, American Idol, awarded college scholarships and vocal performance awards. Her clients have included CMA performers, Dove award winners and Grammy nominees. Marjorie is especially proud of her 3 children's accomplishments as performers, songwriters, and director. Her children have been featured on NBC's the Voice and in numerous professional musical theatre productions.
Intrigued with the pedagogy of modern music styles, Marjorie has continued to study techniques from the top coaches and programs around the world. She synthesized ideas of speech level singing with the style and communication techniques she learned from Belmont University's commercial voice program and from classical voice study. Her vocal teaching courses The Singer's Workshop and Rx for Your Voice have been sold world-wide. Marjorie's coaching has been influential with performers of pop, musical theatre, singer-songwriters, jazz, folk, rock, R&B, gospel and worship music. She has served as vocal coach and clinician at Camp Electric for 11 years.
698 Cedar Ave
Fairhope, AL
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Web: marjoriesearcy.com
Vcard: import to my address book


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This would pop up when my computer and I were out of action. Still, the proposer got an immediate pasting and my blood pressure was saved from reaching crisis point. With 493 comments, I'll leave well alone except to express horror that the man proposing it claims to be a former science teacher and - worse - inspector. It makes it easier to believe that there are moles about, I fear.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree ... ign-school


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Product (RFP/RFQ/RFI/Solicitation/Tender/Bid Etc.) ID: SW-30479
Government Authority located in California; USA based organization looking for expert vendor for enterprise content management and enterprise scanning solution.
[A] Budget: Looking for Proposal
[B] Scope of Service:
(1) Vendor needs to provide enterprise content management and enterprise scanning solution,
- The system should be either cloud-based Software as a Service (SAAS), web hosted
Infrastructure as a Service (IAAS), on-premise, or hybrid solution. The administration and
security for the Enterprise Content Management software adheres to all CIPA, and COPA
requirements in addition to user log in tracking and monitoring of document access, editing,
and downloading,
- Assigned system administrators shall be able to assign, approve, and remove user roles and
permissions through active directory security groups,
- The system should be hosted on either Windows or Linux operation systems if installed on
- The system should support document ingestion through TWAIN and/or ISIS Driver supported
scanners, iOS and Android Mobile Devices, Faxes, MS OneDrive, Google Drive, MS Office 365
- The system should support federated search with Office 365 SharePoint online,
- The system should allow defining/configuring of workflows and online Electronic Forms through
user friendly design/development tool,
- The system should support records management and support document auto categorization
and implement different document retention policies based on document category,
- The system should support content automate categorization with intelligent content services,
- The system should support high volume transaction activities and process automation,
- The system should equip built in analytics and reporting tool,
- The system should support integrations and web API/database interfaces with common line of business solutions, including SAP, Office 365, MiSiS, Integrated Operational Data Warehouse (IODS), and other major systems,
- The system should support monitoring of network folders and importing file automatically or
through scheduled file import job,
- The system should support digital signatures,
- The system should equip with public document access portal/library and support public
document publishing with approval workflows and versioning control,
- The system should allow access through web browsers without downloading any plug-ins and
support all major web browsers. The system should be mobile responsive and support Android
and iOS operation system,
- The system should support document access monitoring, audit trail, watermark, versioning
control, and life cycle management,
- The system should support records in different format, including all Microsoft document
formats, commonly used photo, video, audio file formats.
(2) A pre-proposal meeting will be held on January 21, 2020.
(3) All the questions must be submitted no later than January 23, 2020.
[C] Eligibility:
- Onshore (USA Only);
[D] Work Performance:
Performance of the work will be Offsite. Vendor needs to carry work in their office location.
Expiry Date : Monday, 10 February, 2020
Pre-proposal Conference Date : Tuesday, 21 January, 2020
Question Answer Deadline : Thursday, 23 January, 2020
Category : Software, System and Application
Country : USA
State : California
RFP Expired
You can either pay for Single RFP/Bid document or Subscribe with Monthly Subscription for whole Software, System and Application Category/Categories. If you will obtain monthly subscription for Software, System and Applicationcategory/categories, you will be able to access all the RFPs from that Category. Here are the Monthly Subscription offers. So, subscribe for Monthly offers and get rid of Individual RFP payment. *No commitment =


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Top 10 device companies in spine surgery product market & where they standPrint | Email
Here are the top 10 device companies in the global spine surgery product market, according to a Trusted Business Insights report.
1. Medtronic: The company reported $7.38 billion in first quarter 2019 revenue, a 0.1 percent decrease year-over-year. However, Medtronic saw a 6.8 percent increase in organic revenue growth.
2. DePuy Synthes: The company generated $845 million in second quarter 2018 sales, a 7.7 percent decrease year-over-year. The company's trauma segment reported $675 million in sales, a 5 percent increase.
3. NuVasive: NuVasive experienced an 8.5 percent increase in year-over-year revenues, topping $281.6 million for the second quarter of 2018.
4. Stryker: Stryker reported $3.3 billion in net sales, a 10.3 percent increase year-over-year.
5. Globus Medical: The company's sales spiked 13.8 percent year-over-year, reaching $173.4 million for the second quarter of 2018.
6. Zimmer Biomet: The company reported $2 billion in sales during the second quarter of 2018, a 3 percent increase year-over-year.
7. K2M: The company's second quarter of 2018 revenue was $73.6 million, a 12 percent increase year-over-year.
8. Orthofix: Orthofix's sales for the second quarter of 2018 jumped to $111.5 million, a 2.4 percent increase year-over-year.
9. Alphatec: Alphatec reported a 6 percent increase in net revenue during the second quarter of 2018, hitting $22 million.
10. RTI Surgical: The company reported $70.7 million in revenue for the second quarter of 2018, compared to $72.1 million in the same quarter the prior year.
More articles on devices and implants:
Kathie Lenzen joins Xtant Medical as CFO: 4 things to know
Medtronic, IRS dispute over $1.4B sent back to U.S. Tax Court: 4 key notes
These device companies pay physicians the most
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We present ourselves as a Best Mehandi Artist in Delhi i.e. Kundan Mehandi. We are satisfied to inform you that our services are available at your doorstep. The experts of our Mehandi art/design is that we have associates in our social occasion who has experience of 30 years in this feild. They hold designer's design/Mehandi as shown by our need of culture and customers, additionally, the substance of Mehandi mix are made absolutely of characteristic things and don't usechemicals that harm the skin.
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bipolar, coloring, coping skills, depression, foot surgery, Mental Health, Mental Illness, mixed episode
The last few days were bad bad bad days. If you missed it, you can read all about it here.
But, today. Well, today I feel so much better. I've still spent a good portion of the day coloring. My mood is definitely elevated. But those swings into depression were not nearly as pronounced today.
A couple of things went right, which helped. My husband came home yesterday and his presence is really quite calming for me. Then, this morning I went to the podiatrist for my checkup from surgery. And NO MORE BOOT!!! Coming home and putting on a pair of sneakers and walking out to the garden was such a great feeling. I haven't been out there for a month. In another week, I hope to be able to start going for short walks with the dog in the morning. The left foot is still bad, so I can't go far, but even a short walk is a longer walk then I've been on in ages.
I think all of that has a LOT to do with why I'm feeling better today. Hopefully, tomorrow will build on today and be even a little better.
One of the issues that came up while I was in the throes of my mixed episode was coloring. It's a coping skill that I used when I was first released from the psych hospital last year. I convinced myself that since I had to go that far back to find a tool that worked that it meant that was how far my mental state had slipped. I thought that the sheer fact that I was coloring to keep myself, however loosely, together meant that I was a step away from the hospital because that was where I learned it.
But, I was wrong. My brain was tricking me, yet again. Turns out, it doesn't matter how long that tool has been in your box of tricks or how long it's been since you had to use it. As long as you are picking it up when you need it, it's a GOOD thing!. I think that hearing that from my therapist was a major point in the good column as well. Here I was, using a coping skill, like I'm supposed to, and I was kicking myself about it. She had some work to do, convincing me that coloring did not mean an automatic slide into the psych ward, but she did it.
So, the next time you're feeling crappy and you feel foolish about the coping tool you choose to reach for, don't. Using any tool is better than using no tool. And I suppose it's possible that the tools we've had the longest, work the best, since we've had the most practice with them.
Now, back to my coloring book.


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Robotic Drilling Market Worth 923.2 Million USD by 2023
07 Jun, 2018, 15:30 BST
PUNE, India, June 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --
According to a new market research report "Robotic Drilling Market Application (Onshore and Offshore), Installation (New Builds and Retrofits), Components (Hardware and Software), and Region (North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East) - Global Forecast to 2023", published by MarketsandMarkets™, the market is expected to grow from an estimated USD 658.0 Million in 2018 to USD 923.3 Million by 2023, at a CAGR of 7.01% from 2018 to 2023. This market growth is driven by the increased drilling activities due to the development of unconventional hydrocarbon resources and the adoption of automation and robotics in oil and gas drilling, which results in higher efficiency drilling and improved safety in rigs.
(Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg )
Browse 68 market data Tables and 30 Figures spread through 111 Pages and in-depth TOC on "Robotic Drilling Market"
Early buyers will receive 10% customization on this report
"The onshore application is expected to hold a larger share of the Robotic Drilling Market during the forecast period."
The onshore segment accounted for a larger market for robotic drilling, based on application, in 2017. Globally ~70% of the oil and gas production takes place at onshore oil and gas fields. These fields require less capital investment in comparison with offshore fields and the costs related to automation in these fields are relatively low. Formations in onshore wells are more stable during the drilling process than those in offshore; therefore, the adoption of automation in such areas is faster for improving the drilling efficiency. The market for onshore robotic drilling systems is expected to grow at a significant rate in the coming years. The US and China with vast onshore reserves present ample opportunities for the providers of onshore robotic drilling systems.
Ask for PDF Brochure @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownload.asp?id=227235522
"North America is expected to be the fastest-growing Robotic Drilling Market."
In this report, the Robotic Drilling Market has been analyzed with respect to 5 regions, namely, North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Rest of the World. North America is expected to be the largest and fastest-growing market, based on region, during the forecast period. The increased shale gas production and faster adoption of advanced technologies in drilling drive the growth of the Robotic Drilling Market in the region. Asia Pacific is expected to be the second fastest-growing region in the Robotic Drilling Market.
To enable an in-depth understanding of the competitive landscape, the report includes the profiles of some top players in the Robotic Drilling Market, including Nabors (US), Precision (Canada), Weatherford (Switzerland), Huisman (Netherlands), and National Oilwell Varco (US).
Know more about the Robotic Drilling Market:
About MarketsandMarkets™
MarketsandMarkets™ provides quantified B2B research on 30,000 high growth niche opportunities/threats which will impact 70% to 80% of worldwide companies' revenues. Currently servicing 7500 customers worldwide including 80% of global Fortune 1000 companies as clients. Almost 75,000 top officers across eight industries worldwide approach MarketsandMarkets™ for their painpoints around revenues decisions.
Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets™ are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model - GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets™ now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets™ is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve.
MarketsandMarkets's flagship competitive intelligence and market research platform, "Knowledge Store" connects over 200,000 markets and entire value chains for deeper understanding of the unmet insights along with market sizing and forecasts of niche markets.
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SOURCE MarketsandMarkets


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That title is a little deceiving. We DID celebrate Meredith & Chris's wedding at the Pauley Center near the VMFA in Richmond, VA, but first . . . we got them married in Charlottesville! On Friday, a small group of family and friends gathered at Chris's brother & sister-in-law's house for an intimate ceremony and dinner.
There was something really special about having their ceremony at a place that is special to them. It seemed like everyone felt right at home!
It's not often I get to tell my couples, "See you tomorrow!" after their sparkler exit!!
The next day, we headed to Richmond for part II! I got to meet Mere & Chris at the The One, a quirky little bed and breakfast in my old stomping grounds. Since we were so close, we headed to the spot where Meredith & Chris's love story began. They both lived in an apartment building on Hanover owned by the sweetest little Polish woman. After a while, Chris worked up the courage to talk to the cute blonde he kept seeing. 😉 I think it turned out well.
Meredith, Chris, and Penny (who was present everywhere, from Chris's socks to the guestbook to Meredith's bag!!),
Thank you so much for making me a part of such a fun wedding weekend! I hope you guys are having an AMAZING time in Italy!!
xoxo, Shalese Danielle
Photography | Shalese Danielle Photography
Friday Venue | Chris's brother's house!
Saturday Venue | VMFA Pauley Center
Dresses | BHLDN
DJ | DJ Luxxlife
Dessert | Gearharts Chocolates, homemade cookies
Accommodations | Omni Charlottesville, The One B&B in Richmond
Honeymoon | Amalfi Coast, Florence & Tuscany


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State of Homelessness
Study on Homelessness
A comprehensive study on homelessness in Placer County was conducted in 2015 by consultant Robert Marbut. The study collected data on who the homeless are, how they came to be homeless, where they came from and how long they've been homeless. The data compiled by Marbut shows that most of those who are homeless in Placer County have a connection to the county. They were living here when they became homeless, have family in the area or went to high school here. Many are chronically homeless. Additionally, there are three distinct homeless populations:
- Auburn
- Eastern portion of the county
- Roseville
This information has informed the county's understanding and approach to combating homelessness. Explore the full report (PDF).
Point-in-Time Count
A point-in-time count is conducted annually by the Homeless Resource Council of the Sierras. In 2019, a total of 617 homeless individuals were counted across the county, from Roseville to North Lake Tahoe. Click here for more information or here for a quick guide to the count results. Point-in-time counts are not a comprehensive measure of an area's homeless population, but rather snapshots from a single day that can be used to approximate broad trends. Typically, they are viewed as undercounts for a community's yearly overall homeless population because many people may move in and out of homelessness throughout the year.
Homeless Management Information System
Data around individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness is collected in a Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), administered by the Homeless Resource Council of the Sierras. This helps agencies and service providers securely share information about the needs of the individuals, to better coordinate services. The data is also used to inform community planning and public policy.


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The Education Minister has taken the unusual step of drawing attention to press advertisements placed by his department for two HMIs in pre-school education.
Raymond Robertson said this was evidence of ministers' commitment to quality in its scheme of pre-school vouchers. The closing date for applicants for the posts, which carry a salary of Pounds 29,975 to Pounds 43,537, is February 2.


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During the Regency, as had been the case for over two centuries, most upscale funerals were comprised of a number of attendants, including "mutes." Like the majority of funeral attendants at this time, these mutes were provided by the undertaker as part of their services. Though most of these "mutes" were perfectly capable of speech, it was their responsibility, not only to remain silent throughout the duration of every funeral, but also to maintain an exaggeratedly mournful expression while they served in the capacity of mute. Macabre as it may seem, during the Regency, there were men and boys who regularly supplemented their income as professional mutes.
Funeral mutes during the Regency . . .
The earliest concept of the funeral mute can be dated back to Ancient Rome. It was the custom for a mime to walk in the funeral procession of a deceased member of an important family. The Roman mime dressed all in black and wore a mask made of wax which was fashioned to look like the departed. Each mime was chosen based on their physical resemblance to the person who had passed away. As he walked in the procession, the mime did his best to mimic the mannerisms of the deceased and his family. This masked mime was intended to represent the physical personification of the ancestors of the newly departed, come to earth in order to provide their relative with an escort into the underworld.
About 1600, the mute had become a required attendant at the funerals of the English upper classes. Like the Roman funeral mime, they dressed all in black and walked in the funeral procession. At about this same time, it became customary to have two mutes rather than just one. But unlike the Roman mime, mutes did not mimic the deceased person, but walked solemnly behind the feathermen, who typically led the procession. Nevertheless, by the turn of the eighteenth century, similar to the Roman funeral mime, the mute was considered to be the symbolic protector of the newly departed person. A pair of mutes would stand near the door of the home of the deceased while the body lay within. The mutes would then walk in the funeral procession when the body was taken to the church. Once the coffin was carried into the church, the mutes would take up their position at the door of the church during the funeral service. Though there are few records from this period, it appears that mutes were hired directly by the family of the departed, or might even have been servants of that family.
With the rise of the professional undertaker at the end of the eighteenth century, the undertaker took on the responsibility of hiring all of the attendants for a funeral, including the mutes. The undertaker also had the implied responsibility for safe-keeping of the body until the burial. Many mutes deputized for the undertaker, who was often managing more than one funeral at a time. As had mutes in previous decades, two mutes would take up their position on either side of the door of the departed's home while the family kept vigil around the body. Mutes often helped to place the coffin in the hearse, then walked in the funeral procession when the deceased was taken to the church. There, they took up their places outside the doors of the church during the funeral service. Often mutes accompanied the coffin to the graveside, standing back during that final service. Once the mourners departed, the mutes often helped to fill in the grave as part of their duties.
In accordance with tradition, funeral mutes typically wore a white shirt, black suit, black shoes, black gloves, and a large black sash across their torso. They also wore a black beaver hat, swathed with crepe with a narrow length which trailed down their back. For most funerals, the mute's hat was swathed with black crepe, unless the funeral was for a child or an unmarried person. In those cases, the mute's hat was wrapped with white crepe and the mute wore a white sash and white gloves. Mutes also carried tall staffs which were believed to harken back to the staves of the castle porters who stood watch during ancient baronial funerals. These staffs had a cross-piece affixed near the top from which a length of crepe was hung. The crepe was secured with a large bow near the middle of the staff. The crepe which was draped over the mute's staff was usually black, again, with the exception of funerals for children or unmarried people, when the staff was draped in white crepe.
There appear to have been two rather distinct classes of mutes. The more prominent undertakers who served the better classes hired professional mutes who also stood as their representatives to their clients for the duration of the preparation for the funeral, the funeral procession, service and burial. In quite a number of cases, these professional mutes came from a family whose male members spent their working lives as funeral mutes. Their wives, sisters and daughters may also have found work in the funeral industry preparing bodies for burial, a task usually assigned to women. However, there was another, less savory class of men who worked as mutes for less prominent and less affluent undertakers. These men often did not have steady jobs and took whatever work they could get. There were some advantages to working as a mute. In some cases, they would be provided with a full suit of clothes. At the very least, they would be given the hat, sash and gloves they were expected to wear. These garments might become part of their wardrobe, or, they could be sold for extra cash. Those who were required to provide their own garments were often seen to be wearing dingy shirts, thread-bare coats and time-worn hats. Men who picked up casual work as mutes might not be as diligent in their responsibilities, such as keeping silent and maintaining a mournful expression while they were on duty. These men also tended to have a fondness for liquor and it was quite common for them to go directly to the nearest tavern or public house after a funeral, which routinely caused comment about how by so doing they made a mockery of the solemnity of the funeral rites in which they had just participated.
A pair of mutes was considered de rigueur for any Regency funeral with any pretension to superior social standing. The mutes provided by an upscale undertaker for a prominent family would typically have been professional mutes who were dressed well and appropriately. They would have taken their work seriously, remaining silent, with a mournful expression whenever they were on duty. For less affluent families, the mutes provided by their undertaker might be any pair of men whom they could get to take the work. Their garments might be slightly shabby and they might not maintain silence or a mournful expression while they were on duty. And, they were quite likely to make for the nearest tavern or pub once the funeral was over, while still wearing the clothes they had worn at the funeral. Such behavior certainly caused comment.
Though perhaps a bit macabre, mutes might be employed to serve the purpose of a story set during the Regency. Dear Regency Authors, could it be that your hero needs to keep an eye on someone in a home where there has been a recent death? Will he arrange to have his men assigned as mutes to that house so they can monitor the comings and goings there? Or, perhaps the heroine is accosted by a drunken mute coming out of a pub, to be rescued by the hero just in the nick of time? Are there other ways in which a mute might make an appearance in a Regency story?


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When you're working through your property division arrangements or community property partitions as it is called in Louisiana, it can be hard to know what you want to give up. Louisiana is one of a few states that recognizes community property laws, which require an equal split of marital property upon divorce.
While you might be fine with that 50-50 split, that doesn't mean it's always going to be simple. To divide your property, you'll still need to know the value of your marital property and decide how to divide it between you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse.
Here's an example. If your marital property is worth $250,000 and includes a home, a boat, two vehicles and a hunting cabin, each item might work out to amounts such as:
- $150,000 for your home
- $25,000 for one vehicle
- $25,000 for a second vehicle
- $30,000 for a large boat
- $20,000 for a small hunting cabin
As you can see, even though there is an easy method to see how much each asset is valued at, it won't necessarily be easy to divide those assets. One person might want the boat, a car and the marital home, while the other might want both vehicles and the small hunting cabin on top of the marital home.
So, how do you divide your property in this case? One option is liquidation. Selling the items gives you cash in hand, which you can then split. You also have other options such as selling only the marital home and keeping other assets or buying your spouse out of certain assets that you'd like to keep and paying them cash in exchange.
Your attorney can talk to you more about your options if you find yourself in a difficult situation with your property division arrangements. Creative thinking can help you resolve this situation.


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Groundbreaking for Borinqueneers Monument in New Britain
I am pleased that after years of hard work, the much anticipated Borinqueneers Memorial is getting off the ground.
Many community activists, local and state leaders worked together for years to secure funding for this project, including fundraisers and rallies, in addition to the State Bond Commission granting $300,000 in 2016 to support our efforts.
Today, we are grateful to all of those who embraced our vision and helped us get this project started.
With my colleagues, Reps. Hilda Santiago and Geraldo Reyes
Local New Britain officials, community activists, US Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty, colleagues, friends and supporters
To read more about the groundbreaking ceremony, here is a link to a news story from the Hartford Courant.


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NIMR Automotive expands into Southeast Asia with new partnerships
Bangkok, 6 November 2017 – NIMR Automotive, the leading manufacturer of light and medium-weight wheeled military vehicles in the Middle East and North Africa, is actively expanding its reach into the Southeast Asian region following agreements with top industry partners in Malaysia and Thailand.
In Malaysia, NIMR and DefTech, the country's premier armoured and logistics vehicle producer, have announced plans to deepen their relationship with the aim to finalise a formal Strategic Partnership Agreement in early 2018. Under the agreement, DefTech will support NIMR through the marketing and sales of the complete range of NIMR vehicles to Malaysia and other territories in Southeast Asia.
Further signaling its growing role in the region, NIMR has been working closely with Thailand's FICO Technology and Engineering (FTECH) to explore potential opportunities in the country.
Through the partnership, NIMR's AJBAN 440A and Long Range Special Operations Vehicle (LRSOV) are earmarked to undergo trials arranged at Thailand's Military Transport Training Centre. Both vehicles, that will be trialed for testing and evaluation in the presence of senior officials from the Thai Armed Forces, are currently on display at Defense and Security 2017 in Bangkok (6-9th November).
Speaking on the importance of the partnerships,NIMR's CEO Dr. Fahad Saif Harhara Al Yafei commented, "Following on from the success of our strategic partnership with VOP in the Czech Republic, the ventures with FICO and DefTech represent a key milestone in NIMR's overall growth, providing a firm foundation for our expansion into the region."
Dr. Harhara added, "NIMR has a clear understanding of the threats faced across the region and with our partners we will be able to deliver proven, combat-tested armoured vehicles, capable of addressing these challenges."
Both ventures mark an important step in NIMR's international growth and its desire to expand into Southeast Asia, a key target market for the company. They also build upon NIMR's strong background in technology transfer programmes, including its joint venture with Algeria (NIMR Algerie).
NIMR has grown rapidly in recent years and is now one of the top five global OEMs for wheeled armoured vehicles. The company has expanded its range of vehicles to more than 15 variants in both 4×4 and 6×6 models in order to meet a broad range of user requirements, positioning it for wider growth on the international market.
NIMR Automotive is a subsidiary of the Emirates Defence Industries Company (EDIC), the UAE's integrated defence manufacturing and services platform.


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Sunday, April 27
Have a great summer everyone!
It was a pleasure sharing this semester with all of you. Through your posts I got to know you a bit better and you taught me a lot.
I know that many of you are graduating and moving on to other universities, some close, some far away.
So, what I have to say to you is this:
Go! Do it! And do it well!
God bless you all!
Posted by Athena Smith on 12:46 PM 46 comments:
Sunday, April 20
Suspects in video beating could get life in prison
(CNN) -- Eight Florida teenagers -- six of them girls -- will be tried as adults and could be sentenced to life in prison for their alleged roles in the videotaped beating of another teen, the state attorney's office said Thursday.
You may read the whole story at
Do you think girls' violent behavior is on the rise? And what are your thoughts on teens being tried as adults?
Posted by Athena Smith on 1:22 PM 140 comments:
Sunday, April 13
US high school dropout rate: high, but how high?
US high school dropout rate: high, but how high?
By Gail Russell Chaddock Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor
The national dropout rate is notoriously hard to pin down, and the latest effort to do so - showing alarmingly low graduation rates in some parts of America - is likely to intensify the statistics wars.
Nearly 1 in 3 high school students in the Class of 2006 will not graduate this year, the Editorial Projects in Education (EDE) Research Center reported Tuesday. ....
You may read the whole story at http://www.csmonitor.com/2006/0621/p03s02-ussc.htm
What is the problem with our school system so that that one in every three students will drop out of high school?
Posted by Shirley on 7:03 PM 135 comments:
Thursday, April 3
Beyond America's Original Sin
March 20, 2008
Op-Ed Columnist
Beyond America's Original Sin
By ROGER COHEN
Op-Ed Columnist
Beyond America's Original Sin
By ROGER COHEN
There are things you come to believe and things you carry in your blood. In my case, having spent part of my childhood in apartheid South Africa, I bear my measure of shame.
As a child, experience is wordless but no less powerful for that. How vast, how shimmering, was Muizenberg beach, near Cape Town, with all that glistening white skin spread across the golden sand!
The scrawny blacks were elsewhere, swimming off the rocks in a filthy harbor, and I watched from my grandfather's house and I wondered.
Once, a black nanny took me out across the road to a parapet above a rail track beside that harbor. "You wouldn't want me to drop you," she said. ....
You may read the whole article athttp://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/20/opinion/20cohen.html?_r=2&hp&oref=slogin&oref=slogin
Do you observe any types of segregation or discrimination on any of the following lines? Race, ethnicity,religion,age,sexuality,disabilities...?
Please share personal experiences if you wish.
Please share personal experiences if you wish.
Posted by Dawid on 12:08 PM 138 comments:
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)


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About Us
The iconic Detroit Bad Boys logo was created in late 1988 by Detroit native Billy Berris, president of ASL, a Michigan based silkscreen T-shirt company.
contact email@example.com for wholesale inquiries
This copyrighted design, with a skull-and crossbones motif over a basketball with the words "Detroit Bad Boys" was a collaboration with his art director Robin Brant.
The Detroit Pistons acquired the reputation as being "Bad Boys" late in the 1987-88 season. They entered training camp in the 88-89 season with a renewed focus and determination "to win it all." The key players established a set of rules and a style of play that demanded physical and mental toughness from every teammate. Every player had a role and they "stuck to the script." The "Bad Boys" were born and the rest is history.
The Detroit Bad Boys won back-to back championships in 1989 and 1990. The Bad Boys are the Detroit Pistons; they were the "baddest" team in the National Basketball Association.
Be on the lookout for Detroit Bad Boys Brand collaborations, exclusives and promotions.


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"I was travelling with Germans recently, and when they heard where I'm from, they said: 'Nothing good ever came from Braunau!'" recounts Monika Raschhofer at local paper Braunauer Warte am Inn to illustrate the pall Adolf Hitler casts over this small town on the border with Germany.
Coming from Braunau means being asked, and asked, about Hitler and the house at 15 Salzburger Vorstadt, where he was born on 20 April 1889. It is 80 years this month since Hitler made the most historically important of his rare visits to Braunau, passing through as he annexed Austria in 1938. He didn't stop: his family had moved away when he was three and, with the Anschluss to take care of, he headed straight to nearby Linz, the city he considered home.
He wasn't, however, blind to the lasting publicity potential of his birthplace: German soldiers were ordered to secure the brewery-cum-guesthouse at No 15, which was turned into a devotional attraction for the party faithful. In 1945, American troops reached Braunau just in time to stop a German detachment blowing it up.
Today, after decades of use as a centre for disabled people, the house stands unoccupied. A memorial stone on the pavement outside warns against the perils of fascism in the name of "millions of dead". Future plans for it have provoked a continuing controversy which, like a black hole, sucks in all attention focused on the town from outside, an issue journalist Holger Fröhlich explores in depth in this piece for Brand Eins business magazine.
"Braunau residents are genuinely friendly," says Fröhlich, "but you can tell they've had enough of being asked about the house." Things visitors don't ask about so much – and what locals would love to talk more about instead – are the beautiful natural surroundings on the banks of the Inn river, the fine late-gothic buildings, the impressive local Inn-Salzach-Bauweise architectural style, and the rich – if somewhat eccentric – assortment of non-Hitler-related historical facts.
Haunted by a house, beset by a border
"I consider it a sign of my destiny that fate assigned me Braunau am Inn as my place of birth, for this small town lies on the border between two German states whose reunification is felt, at least by the younger among us, to be a life's work, the completion of which is worth striving for with any means necessary." Yet before Braunau was made notorious by this prophetic mention in the first line of Mein Kampf, its most famous literary appearance was in War and Peace: in the second part of the first volume, Tolstoy's narrative follows Marshal Kutusov to his headquarters in Braunau during the Napoleonic wars. Napoleon himself also came, spending a night on 30 October 1805.
A year earlier, Arthur Schopenhauer, aged 15, and his parents were detained for an entire week in the town, waiting for the correct visas to enter Austria-Hungary. Ah yes, the border: Braunau's other burden.
Braunau in numbers
1 – number of mentions of Hitler on town's official tourism website
240,000 – approximate number of Google results including both the town and Hitler
97% – percentage of Braunau residents surveyed who said they'd been asked about Hitler
17,120 – Braunau's population
43,000 – number of overnight stays in 2017
History in 100 words
First mentioned in 788, Braunau received its charter in 1260. Its position (securing a crossing of the river Inn) made the town an attractive prize for both Bavaria and Austria, between whom it changed hands frequently, and for invaders. Oddly, given its inland location, it housed Austria-Hungary's naval academy from 1915 until the empire's demise in 1918, when it became Austrian. From 1938 to 1945, Austria was part of Nazi Germany. Since 1945, it has enjoyed peace and economic prosperity; the fall of the Iron Curtain and the Schengen border regime have been of considerable benefit to Braunau.
Braunau in sound and vision
One of the town's most enduring images is that of medieval mayor Hans Staininger (or Steininger), whose beard was 3 ½ ells long – around two yards. He tended to keep this impressive piece of male grooming wrapped in a pouch, until one day he neglected to do so, tripped over it and broke his neck, thus supplying the town with an unlikely but enduring mascot: his likeness adorns several buildings and is a tourist brochure staple.
Because Hitler so seldom visited, images of him in Braunau are few in number. Instead, countless photos of the building in which he was born illustrate Braunau's curse: postcards of the house (yes, they are available) tend to show it behind the stout and insistent form of the memorial stone – most likely to counter accusations of catering to thoughtless day-tourists or neo-Nazi pilgrims.
A visit by a far less controversial leader in 1903 was the occasion for Braunau's first appearance in film; the footage of Emperor Franz-Josef is also the oldest surviving reel shot in Austria.
On the move
The bridge to Germany has always been important, both as a threat and as an escape. In the Beer war of 1908, following an unreasonable price hike, disgruntled Braunauers demonstratively went over the river to drink; 30 years later, when German soldiers came the other way, extinguishing Austrian democracy, they were feared by some as conquerors and hailed by others as heroes. Germans and Austrians had been brothers-in-arms in the first world war; Hitler was given special dispensation to fight in the Bavarian army. Uniting the two nations as part of his "Greater Germany" was a popular policy at the time.
Today, only rightwing extremists still dream of a "united German people". Yet Braunau has never liked being a frontier outpost, and the benefits of the relaxed border regime are almost unquestioned here. Rather than being at the periphery of the Austrian economy, Braunau is now centrally placed between a booming region to the east, the Innviertel, and Bavaria, Germany's economic powerhouse, to the west. The free movement of labour is particularly crucial. "It used to be Austrians commuting over the border, but now, with the economy here growing fast – and in view of the better benefits and earlier pensionable age in Austria – Germans are coming the other way," says Raschhofer.
In late 2015, the surge in refugees crossing from Austria to Germany led to a sudden reinstatement of border checks at Simbach – with unwelcome consequences as refugees waited in tents to cross (or not). However, due to the strength of existing bonds between local government, police and emergency services, disruption to residents was minimised, refugees were given shelter and the blame game was left to national politicians. Nevertheless, the brief reappearance of an all-but-forgotten line has sharpened awareness of its presence – and of the need to cement ties across it. In devastating flash floods on the German side of the river in summer 2016, Braunau emergency services rushed to help, ignoring the lack of bureaucratic protocols for doing so.
What's next for the city?
"We don't see cross-border cooperation as a challenge, but rather as normality," explains Elke Pflug of STS Braunau-Simbach, a new joint venture to promote the two towns as a European region. The first of its kind in Europe, the bi-national company will be launching a new twin-town brand in April. "Regardless of borders, Braunau-Simbach will now be acting as a single unit, presenting itself with a shared identity and history," says Pflug, adding that the region's high quality of life and booming economy give it a strong position.
With major suppliers to the German car industry such as Dräxlmeier, headquartered 30 miles away in Vilsbiburg (Germany), and smaller start-ups such as cereal-makers Müslibär looking to hire, Braunau is bucking the trend for towns its size: its population is growing. With this dynamism has come new cultural events, such as a short film festival in September and a hip-hop weekend, premiering this summer.
Closer zoom
The local paper, Braunauer Warte am Inn, is at OÖNachrichten, while STS Braunau-Simbach lists local events. Florian Kontako's website Braunau History offers in-depth historical information on Hitler, Braunau and the Nazi years, as well as updates on the current status of the house, in German, English and Hebrew.
Do you live in Braunau? What key facts, figures and cultural highlights have we missed? Share your stories below
Follow Guardian Cities on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to join the discussion, and explore our archive here


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this weekend i ended up joining hin chua on one of his photographic exploits along the thames. we stocked up on pasties and jumped on the train to gravesend from where we wandered to higham. it was a bit of a trek but the sun was out, the company good and the food mediocre, what more could anyone ask for?
the aptly named gravesend owes its fame to being the last resting place of pocahontas. who we found immortalised in a mural just outside the station. (that's her on top of the bearded ginger white man on the left.)
on our way to the thames we passed an industrial area, where on the side of a van we found the following sage advice:
a couple of meters on we took this short course in hand signaling:
and rambling and clambering on, passing a power station and shooting grounds, dangerous waters and three separate forts we encountered some more signage. i was impressed with the trepidation of the wee man looking over the edge at the water and the other little man's balancing act.
it's not quite gravesend but in february i spent half a day in amsterdam and came across the image below outside of madam tussauds. if i'd had some time to spare i would have taken barry up on the offer.
i like knowing that all of the text and images above were carefully crafted by someone somewhere. someone woke up one morning and half asleep thought 'chance...choice...quality... eureka! quality is not a chance it is a choice!' then they got up and spent the rest of the day feeling chuffed.
we do what we can.
Monday, 23 March 2009
quality is not a chance
Labels: barack obama, gravesend, higham, hin chua, pocahontas, signage, thames
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Visitor Center Museum and Bookstore
Time to explore before the next movie? You might want to visit the park bookstore, the small museum within the visitor center, and of course, the restrooms.
Guided tours are provided from late November through early April, as staffing permits. Please call the day of your visit for tour schedules. Groups, especially school classes, need to call in advance.
Picnic with Family and Friends
Special Events
Check the calendar for events. Artist demonstrations, a speaker series, and tours are offered in cooler months, November to April.
Last updated: June 2, 2019


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Grab your bathing suits, surf boards, plastic shovels, picnic baskets and flip flops, because for this week's Drawing Contest we're going to the beach. Use PicsArt tools to draw your best depiction of what you like to do best when you go to the beach.
The contest this week will give users 4 days to draw, and then a 30-hour period to submit their works, starting on Saturday morning and ending Sunday afternoon. Voting begins at the start of submission and will last until midnight on Monday (PST). For specific times read the details below.
It is truly the world's favorite summer pastime, because the beach has something to offer everybody. Those who take pride in their appearance can work on their tan, the introspective can cuddle up with a good book, the children can build sandcastles, the romantics can take a stroll along the water's edge, the athletic can bring a football or volleyball, and when the heat just gets to be too much, everyone can run into the water together to cool off. This week, draw whatever is your favorite thing to do when you go to the beach.
Oh, and one more thing… don't forget to bring a towel!
IMPORTANT: New Submission Rules & Deadlines!!!
We will announce the tag for the contest right before the contest starts on July 20th, Saturday 9:00 AM (PST). All entries must be then submitted between 9:00 AM(PST) on Saturday and 3:00 PM(PST) on Sunday, July 21st.
Note: These changes are an attempt to give all drawings a fair opportunity. By extending the drawing period before submission begins, users will no longer be rushed to finish their photos early just to give themselves more time to accrue votes.
New Voting Rules
Voting will begin as soon as submissions start at 9:00 AM (PST) on Saturday, July 20th and will last until midnight (PST) on Monday, July 22nd.
Non-Original Artwork Will be Removed!!
All submissions must be original drawings created by users using only the PicsArt App drawing tools.
Users CANNOT copy images from our clipart files, other users, or the Internet.
Images that don't meet the requirements above will be removed, to ensure fair voting opportunities for authentic drawings! Thank you.


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In the shadow of this election day, across the United States, millions of people are doing more than just hoping -- and more than just voting. With a vast array of activism, progressives have been struggling to make history by defeating the Bush regime.
I don't know anyone who has enjoyed this election campaign. We'll be glad to have it behind us. But what remains to be seen -- and what we have the power to make more likely between now and Tuesday night -- is the outcome that people around the world are deeply yearning for.
For those of us living in the United States, amid all the tedium and debates and acrimony of this election year, losing sight of bigger pictures has been easy. But the consequences of choices will soon become clear.
Bush can be defeated. The world is depending on us to make it happen.
Never Miss a Beat.
Get our best delivered to your inbox.
Last week, Left Business Observer editor Doug Henwood interviewed the insightful anti-imperialist writer Tariq Ali on WBAI Radio in New York. Ali, a leading international activist for several decades and the author of "Bush in Babylon" and "The Clash of Fundamentalisms," addressed progressives in the USA. "This is what I constantly say when I'm in this country to people on the left: Look, you have a responsibility to the rest of the world as well. This is no time to fool around. ... Do not mimic the imperial rulers of your country and think exclusively about yourselves and your own interests, whatever these may be. ... Just look at the situation globally and ask yourselves this: Would a defeat for George W. Bush -- how would this defeat be seen in the world?"
Ali went on: "I am 100 percent confident that from the Atlantic to the Urals, through Latin America, in Africa, in the Arab [world], this defeat would be seen as a victory. Now, the response to that comes, 'Yeah, but Kerry would do the same thing' -- but that's not the point. The point is Bush decided on this war, Bush took the country to war, the neocons and their supporters devised ... lies which they haven't been able to deliver that this was a war of liberation. It's been a complete and total disaster. Should Bush be punished for going to war or not? If you say 'yes,' then you have to punish him, and the best way to punish him is to remove him from office."
And, Ali continued: "Then you come to Kerry. As I said, pressure should be put on Kerry from Day One. And if he carries on the war, then attack him. But the position would be clear: we removed Bush because he went to war. If you carry on with the war, you could be removed as well. You won't serve a second term either. ... I honestly can't see any argument against this. And people who say, 'But we're not going to vote for Kerry -- are you advocating a vote for Kerry, you sellout?' But my response to that is: Are you seriously advocating that Bush should stay in power? Because that's the alternative."
The eyes of the world are on the swing states while the Bush regime desperately fights to win four more years of murderous power.


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Katie Marrow in year nine wins Buxton Poetry Competition 2014 (Youth category 12-17 years). read more .................
Many congratulations to Katie Marrow in year nine who has won Buxton Poetry Competition 2014 (Youth category 12-17 years).
The theme this year was 'The Natural World' and Katie wrote a poem called 'River' about Lathkill Dale. Lady Jasmine Cavendish will present Katie and the winners of the other two categories at a special reception held at Buxton Museum on July 8th.
Dancing, chattering over smooth, weed draped rocks
It leaps, glittering down each small waterfall.
Leaves, floating like small brown boats, slips past, tumbling
Dappled shadows, light, shade, light, shade, under the leafy arms of the trees.
Shafts of sun pierce the fluid curtain,
A flash of silver scales, flickering away through the emerald water weed
Moorhens squabble, bright beaks pointing with purpose.
In the bank, dark secretive holes- a water vole's haunt?
Trees slide past; willows bend their fingers down to the water.
A rock, standing sentinel in the current, parts the water like scissors through silk.
Atop it, smart in shiny dark brown coat,
With clean white bib like linen on a washing line,
Dipper dances, bobbing up and down to the music of the river.


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* Rousseff voices preference for Boeing in jets tender
* Brazil seeks more guarantees on technology, better terms
* Rousseff sees deal as way of bolstering ties with U.S. (Adds details, context)
By Brian Winter
SAO PAULO, Feb 8 (Reuters) - Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff has told visitors she believes Boeing's (BA.N) F-18 is the best jet among three finalists in a multi-billion dollar Air Force fighter tender, but she is still pressing for better terms on technology transfers that are critical to any deal.
Rousseff raised the issue of the jet tender during a meeting in Brasilia on Monday with U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, sources with knowledge of the conversation told Reuters. They spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the talks.
Rousseff told Geithner she considered the purchase of at least three dozen jets as a way to not only modernize Brazil's Air Force but also potentially to improve strategic and trade ties with the United States — a major goal of her foreign policy since taking office on Jan. 1.
However, Rousseff said she remained concerned about the transfers of proprietary technology that Brazil wants as a way to help develop its own defense industry as part of any deal.
She is seeking both improved terms from Boeing and further guarantees from the U.S. government that it will allow sensitive military technology to change hands, the sources said.
The other finalists in the bidding process are the Rafale jet built by France's Dassault (AVMD.PA) and the Gripen NG produced by Sweden's Saab (SAABb.ST).
Rousseff's comments — plus her previous decision to delay the tender instead of immediately awarding it to Dassault, as many of her defense chiefs wanted — suggest that she is leaning toward the Boeing bid but is still pressing companies to come up with better terms in a deal that will shape Brazil's defense alliances for decades to come. [ID:nN18151639]
A spokesman for Rousseff's office declined comment.
Boeing spokeswoman Marcia Costley said the technology transfer guarantee was an issue that would be decided by the two governments.
The company is willing to provide Brazil with further technological know-how and other assistance in areas such as transport, satellites and weapons systems as part of the deal, she added.
"Boeing has the capability and resources to live up to its promises on ... technology transfer and the track record to prove it," Costley said via e-mail.
The contract — which will be worth at least $4 billion, not including lucrative maintenance deals and possible additional purchases — has suffered several delays during the past decade as Brazilian leaders struggle to balance the Air Force's needs against diplomacy, cost and other factors.
Rousseff has made the development of national industries one of the centerpieces of her government, and it is conceivable that she could choose a jet she considers inferior if it provided a bigger boost to Brazilian industry.
The three finalists have already been working to improve their bids since Reuters first reported on Jan. 17 that Rousseff would delay the tender.
Officials for one company told Reuters they had submitted their most recent bid more than a year ago, so they would have to recalculate the terms. The officials declined to be identified because of the competitive nature of the process.
Meanwhile, the U.S. government is working to provide the additional guarantees Rousseff seeks. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has already provided a written guarantee that any deal with Boeing would be respected by the U.S. government, but Rousseff has asked for additional backing in the form of some kind of resolution from the U.S. Congress.
U.S. President Barack Obama is due to make his first visit to Brazil in March, which could advance the deal further.
Dassault officials continue to press their case. Dassault Aviation exports chief Eric Trappier told reporters last weekend that it was ready to transfer all of its available technologies to Brazil if it won the contract.
One silver lining for the companies: Instead of starting the tender process from zero, Rousseff is seeking modifications to the existing bids and is likely to make a decision on the contract by the end of the year, an adviser said.
Additional reporting by Cyril Altmeyerhenzien in Paris, Editing by Todd Benson and Ted Kerr


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Escaping Witch, an endless runner where you have to escape as long as possible
Only registered members can share their thoughts. So come on! Join the community today (totally free - or sign in with your social account on the right) and join in the conversation.
A variety of screenshots of 'Escaping Witch' that will allow you to see how looks the game.


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My dog is reactive to other dogs when on his lead, any tips?
Vinnie will be reading it to me later 😊🐾🐶 he'll report back 🤓🧐
I genuinely love seeing copies of my second book, The 20% Rule - How to ensure your small business is safe, sustainable and profitable - in their new forever homes.
This is Vinnie who owns @PAAW_House who owns that mug 🤣
Get your copy today over on Amazon or Kindle.
100% woofs to that & a dog friendly home is the best kind of property? The only kind, in our opinion? @RobertJenrick @BorisJohnson Great to see dogs in the press barking on behalf of those of us who oppose pet discrimination & promoting animal welfare! @APDAWG1 @rachelspenceruk
We were delighted to see our very own Chief of Happiness Reggie with his dog mum in an article in the Sunday Express yesterday! Thanks to @rachelspenceruk for the coverage, a dog friendly office is the best kind of office 🐶 @Daily_Express #barktowork #officedogs #modularhomesUK
Thanks so much for the feature. 🥰🐶🐾 Vins just been to the park to tell all his buddies ❤
Really pleased to be highlighting the work of some amazing people today in @TheSun Paws and Claws.
Thanks @Rerodgers1 for the lovely story about Dillon and @dogaid and Gabby from @PAAW_House for campaigning for more pet friendly landlords.
🐾🐶Calling all Animal Lovers 🐱💕
Please SIGN & RT this important #TuksLaw petition
More signatures = More awareness = More support
Together we WILL make a difference #DogsLivesMatter
Happy #InternationalCatDay PAAW friends. @Number10cat this might be a good day to have a word with your human colleagues about banning no pet clauses? @BorisJohnson @RobertJenrick - every pet deserves the right to a loving home? Every human deserves the right to love a pet?
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