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Unfortunately there is an increasing tendency for employees to suffer from bullying and harassment in the workplace. This is unacceptable. Gotelee Solicitors' team of specialist Solicitors in Ipswich, Suffolk have experts that can advise and support you if you feel you have been bullied or harassed and, in appropriate cases obtain compensation on your behalf.
Harassment arises where a person is treated in a way which violates their dignity or which creates an offensive, intimidating or hostile environment for them. If it is due to a protected characteristic, such as age, disability, gender or race, it will amount to unlawful discrimination entitling you to bring a claim in an Employment Tribunal.
Bullying and harassment can however take various forms and does not necessarily have to be related to a protected characteristic for liability to arise. If you have suffered an illness as a result of the actions of your managers or your fellow employees you may be entitled to compensation through the courts.
Even if there has been no bullying or harassment, employees may have a claim if they have been caused stress or injury to health as a result of excessively long hours or overwork. This may amount to negligence and a breach of the duty of care owed by employers to their employees.
There is an overlap in these cases between Personal Injury and Employment law, however with experienced specialist teams in both areas Gotelee Solicitors in Ipswich, Suffolk are in the best position to advise on the best way for you to proceed.
Our charges are very reasonable and tailored to the work that you would like us to do. In the majority of cases, we are happy to agree a fixed fee for your work, so that you have comfort in knowing that you can safely budget, with no fear of receiving an unexpected bill from us. Personal injury claims may also be dealt with on a no-win, no-fee basis.
Contact our employment Solicitors in Ipswich, Suffolk on 01473 298126 or by email.
"" This is the second time we have used Tracey for the conveyancing to buy our new home. She is always completely approachable, she has helped us along the way with advice and useful tips that has helped lessen the stress. We have complete confidence in her and would not hesitate to recommend her to our friends and family". - Peter Dawes, Cater Dawes Financial Planning "
"Domini was very fast and efficient in carrying out her work for me - she was also very good at explaining things to me"
"I would like to say thank you for your help, support and guidance over the last two and a half years. Obviously should I need further assistance in the future I shall not hesitate to call you guys."
"I have used Tracey Laflin at Gotelee on a number of occasions and in my opinion, she is simply the most efficient conveyancing solicitor I have ever worked with. From the outset, she took the time to understand my specific business requirements and to date, she has exceeded all of my expectations."
- Dale Fiddy - Portobello Developments Ltd
"The ease that we could access and speak to Pat Smith - Thank you"
"Prompt, helpful, polite and very professional service"
"Approachable, very efficient, always willing to take my calls and update me."
"Jade Shelton was absolutely fantastic!! Professional and proactive at all times."
"We were very pleased to have Jade as our solicitor, the service was excellent and we felt kept in the loop which minimised stress"
"This is by far the go-to firm for any issues. You are made to feel valued from the outset and they are so confident in what they do. Wouldn't recommend any other. Thank you Hugh and Max."
- Ros Jones


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Nest Supper Club: Wallpaper* hosts intimate dinner at Stanton Williams-designed home
The 'thoughtful home' was the theme of the inaugural Nest Supper club, held on an atypically tropical London evening earlier this summer. Set on launching high-powered, but pleasantly so, evening pow wows, the Google-owned pioneer of smart and sharp-looking thermostats, smoke detectors and more, turned to Wallpaper* as the suitable partner. (As they would. After all, who has thunk domestic more deeply than us?)
Given the theme, and the credentials of our co-hosts, we needed the smartest of spaces as a venue. And found it in the Hampstead Heath home of Medhi and Elli Norowzian; the most elegant of glass boxes designed, by architects Stanton Williams, in an almost arcadian situation.
Co-hosted by Wallpaper* editor-in-chief Tony Chambers and Nest founder and CEO (and frankly, Silicon Valley royalty) Tony Fadell, the evening was the first of what we hope will be an on-going series of informal summits in remarkable settings. Among the guests were architects David Adjaye, John Pawson, Kevin Carmody and Stanton Williams' own Paul Williams, designers Ilse Crawford, Edward Barber, Martino Gamper, Tom Dixon, Ron Arad, Ian Callum and the artist Francis Upritchard.
All gathered, guests mingled in the Norowzian's well-tended outside spaces while supper was prepared by the Michelin-starred Skye Gyngell, taking a night off duties at her new Somerset House-set restaurant, Spring. (The menu included fresh salad of Fern Verrow leaves, heirloom beetroots and a verjuice and honey dressing, followed by a summery salt-baked wild salmon, served with chard, crushed broad beans, nasturtium and lemon aioli. Heating things up was a chickpea, carrot and chard curry, served with cooling yoghurt with pickled lime. Sweet closure came with a blackcurrant summer pudding with crème fraîche and a lemon verbena tea. And miniature parcels of Gyngell's signature white chocolate, pistachio and rosemary nougat were packed up as midnight treats. Just in case you're interested). Meanwhile, illustrator Charlotte Trounce recorded events in a painterly - and pleasingly analogue - way.

subset: commoncrawl


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The tree is up! Be sure to come to the official tree lighting after the Old Town Winchester Holiday Parade on Monday, November 28 at 7 p.m.
Thank you to Lora Lee and William Bailey – the donors of the tree for the second year in a row, Aikens Group, Bell's Fine Clothing, Case Tree Service, Reading Landscape and Shockey who made this possible.
It took some heavy equipment and a lot of volunteers to install the 30 ft Old Town holiday tree. Watch it come together in this video:


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Today is something called "Batman Day". Which is described on the website of DC Comics as
The annual celebration of the Dark Knight is back when Batman Day hits on September 17th! Join in on the fun with Batman Day events around the country and internationally, great discount deals and more! Check out this page for more details, as well as essential Batman graphic novels and news about Gotham City's favorite hero.
HEY!! ENJOY BATMAN BY SPENDING MONEY! LOTS OF YOUR LOVELY MONEY! LOOK! BATMAN! is essentially the blatantly consumerist message being vomited forth from DC Comics.
It is essentially this:
I've nothing against the love of a character, but I'm willing to bet DC won't be promoting a Blue Beetle day at any point in the future, or indeed, any character that isn't universally recognised like Batman is. Which leaves us with a grubby marketing grab designed to part people's money from their wallets for the benefit of DC and their parent company Warner Brothers, because multinational corporations that earn billions want to earn more so their executives can buy the most expensive cocaine and prostitutes money can buy.


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Main Plaza - 115 N. Main Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 225-9800 Visit Website
San Antonio—The Saga is a world-class video art installation on the façade of San Fernando Cathedral, the oldest operating sanctuary in North America. It showcases a breathtaking visual journey through the history of San Antonio. Created by renowned French artist Xavier de Richemont, The Saga is his first outdoor art installation in the U.S. His other works can be seen in France, Germany, Spain, Morocco, Mexico, and Canada.


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Oct 24, 2011 · Can a Commercial Be Too Sexy For Its Own Good? Ask Axe. story of how Unilever created this now-legendary Axe campaign isn't just another demonstration of the power of sex in advertising; it's Author: Martin Lindstrom. Dec 28, 2017 · New research shows oversexualized advertising might do more damage to brands than good. Should These Companies Have Their Ads Be Labeled as Too Sexy Author: Samuel-Becker.
Marketers keep pushing that "too sexy, too soon" envelope on our young daughters, and we are seeing impact on our daughters' self-esteem and body images. Keep in mind that it isn't just one advertisement or one commercial that affects a young girl's self-concept, but the constant slew of images pushing a "too fast, too soon" look. 12 Adverts Deemed Too Shocking For TV. The by DDB Amsterdam ad was banned for being too sexy. 11. The advert turned out to be a spoof made by advertising .
Nov 14, 2013 · In this very rare guest post John Shaw, Chief Strategy Officer at WPP's Team Red, asks whether sometimes advertising can be too good, not for the brand but for the consumer. Long, long ago in the mid- 1980's, Levi's 501's created a moment for me – a fashion moment, a music moment, an advertising moment. Jun 25, 2019 · And advertising, especially political advertising, can sway the course of a nation through deception and misinformation. These 12 Super Bowl Ads Were Way Too Racy For Prime Time. Get To Know More About Outdoor Advertising Methods. Seven Unusual Places to Put Your Advertising.
Related searches against her will too hot too sexy seduction naomi woods cum face best compilation ever camera shy just fuck me cum in my white pussy i dont want to too soon mom tries anal gives a sensual too much orgasm student too sexy sneaks two face no way tied black too sex toonsex for her huge ass yoga black on black rough ride best cum. Aug 04, 2019 · Can a Wife be Too Good and Too Sexy? I've read quite a bit on the forum but I think there is a bit of a uniqueness to my situation. I'm 50, wife is 51, married 21 years, 2 .
Aug 18, 2007 · Can you be too sexy? As for the too sexy thing, people probably think that she has some ugly, tough gangster of a boyfriend with loads of henchmen (like at my school), but if you like her, go for her! If you go into a situation with nothing, there is nothing to lose!Status: Open.


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What Cars Are Most Likely to Hit 200,000 Miles?
A lot is said about the quality engineering of German cars and of the durability and reliability of pickup trucks, which, supposedly, must be reliable because owners require it of them. In America especially, a lot of claims are made about the quality of things built in the United States (no surprise there), and the closer you get to Detroit, the more people seem to swear by brands like Ford and GM—though at this point even hardcore fans of the Big Three might omit Chrysler, presumably because it was bought by the Italian company FIAT and because their cars break down faster than the Lions can find a creative way to lose yet another game.
The question of which vehicles are most likely to hit 200,000 miles is a common one, and to put it to rest, Consumer Reports compiled a list ranking the 10 cars most likely to reach that milestone while experiencing the least amount of problems. It then adjusted the list to account for the reporting bias that would result in popular models being overrepresented. Here it is in full:
Related: Explore the full Toyota vehicle lineup
- Toyota Camry
- Honda Accord
- Toyota Prius
- Honda CR-V
- Toyota Sienna
- Honda Civic
- Toyota Corolla
- Toyota 4Runner
- Toyota Highlander
- Ford F-150
Related: Amazon's Alexa is coming to Toyota vehicles in 2018
To anyone actually familiar with the automotive industry and the Toyota Production System (TPS), seeing six Toyota models claim a spot in the list is no surprise. The automaker is famous for its impeccable production standards, and TPS is not only the manufacturing benchmark in the automotive industry but in manufacturing as a whole.
The kaizen Japanese philosophy of improvement plays a role as well, which is likely in part responsible for Honda's strong presence in the list. And, it should be granted that at least one American pickup truck was represented, so Detroiters should be able to feel some measure of appeasement after learning that a small Japanese hybrid hatchback is more reliable than anything put out by the motor capital of the world.
News Source: Consumer Reports
The News Wheel is a digital auto magazine providing readers with a fresh perspective on the latest car news. We're located in the heart of America (Dayton, Ohio) and our goal is to deliver an entertaining and informative perspective on what's trending in the automotive world. See more articles from The News Wheel.


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Learn about eating bugs at the Darien Library
How would you like to eat a bowl of crickets for dinner? Learn about the health benefits of eating insects from David Gracer, a entomophagy (or bug eating!) expert, on Monday, Aug. 28 from 4 to 5 p.m.
Gracer will talk about why humans eat insects and why that practice can save the planet. Featured on National Geographic Channel and The Colbert Report, Gracer will be here to answer all insect questions and attendees may even have the opportunity to snack on something buggy too. This program is open to ages kindergarten and up.
Children, teen, and adult programs are funded by contributions to the Annual Campaign for the Darien Library. Please contact the Children's Library at 203-669-5235, or visit the Library's website at https://dar.to/2mdyAcW to view all the children's programs.


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Howard Leight - Clarity - 4-Flange Corded Earplugs With Reusable Case
Howard Leight's new Clarity earplug improves worker safety and communication by blocking hazardous noise while voice and signal frequencies can be heard more naturally. Clarity�??s multi-material design with translucent stem facilitates its Sound Management Technology membrane, managing the transmission of sound frequencies through the earplug and ear canal. Plus, its low attenuation provides ideal protection for workers exposed to low levels of hazardous noise, eliminating risk of over-protection in marginal noise environments and additional hazards in the workplace.
- Patented Sound Management Technology [SMT] design blocks low and medium frequencies while higher frequencies [voice, signals, alarms] can be heard more naturally, with less distortion
- Prevents worker isolation by enhancing communication
- Low attenuation ideal for marginal noise environments of 95 dB or lower, preventing overprotection and improving overall worker safety and compliance
- Patented quadruple SoftFlange design creates comfortable seal in the ear canal for all-day comfort
- Two sizes fine-tune fit for personal comfort and safety
- Cord Adjuster adapts length to suit personal preference or application
- Woven cord reduces sound transmission when earplugs are worn
- Reusable case with hook allows wearers to attach to belt loop, apron, bag or other work tools
- Food Processing
- Laboratories
- Light Manufacturing
- Pharmaceutical
- Transportation
- Warehousing
- Single Pair
- Size: Small (green)
- Safety Product Type: Corded Earplug
- NRR [max]: 21
- Design: Flanged
- Material: Multi-Material
- Usage: Multiple Use
- Brand Name: Clarity
Note: This product listing is for the small size (green). The SKU for medium (blue) is HLI1005329
Item has not been reviewed. Be the first to write a review for this item


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Tofugear Showcases the Full Power of iOS for Retail at RAE 2017
Tofugear, one of the iOS in Business Partners, was pleased to showcase its comprehensive iOS retail platform at the 2017 Retail Asia Expo.
Tofugear is a disruptive player in the retail technology industry. An end-to-end unified commerce platform, Tofugear Omnitech empowers retailers to bridge the gap with the connected consumer by providing an agile approach to seamless integration and affordable innovation.
At the annual Retail Asia Expo, Hong Kong's landmark event for retail, over 9,000 visitors explored the latest trends and insights from leading industry experts. In this year's Retail Asia Trend Trail, Tofugear Omnitech's Connected Fitting Room was chosen by world renowned brand agency, Fitch, to demonstrate what happens when you bring IoT technology, mobile, and artificial intelligence into a single customer experience within the fitting room. With such unprecedented levels of data capture, insights into consumer preferences and seamlessness of the interaction, Tofugear's Connected Fitting Room inspired many visitors to think differently about their approach to using technology in their own business.
At Tofugear's relatively large exhibition space, visitors were able to experience the implementation of unified commerce technology in a real retail environment for themselves. This included segments tailored to fashion & apparel, fragrance & beauty, fine watches & jewelry and more.
In the co-located Omni-Channel Retailing Conference, Tofugear's Managing Partner, Carson McKelvey, also shared key insights on the challenges that many businesses are facing with digital transformation and how retailers are using technology in their businesses. Backed by his own experiences in translating his client's digital strategies into actionable initiatives, Carson presented to delegates some of the realities that retail businesses needed to face; the need to be customer centric, digital business ready, and collaborative with technology partners.
Andrew Leciejewski, one of Tofugear's other four Managing Partners, also shared his insights on the realities of executing a digital transformation on a panel discussion with industry experts Joelle Woo – Director of Business Development at Microsoft HK, Gordon Lam – Deputy Director of the Guangdong Asia Pacific E-Commerce Institute, Giovanni Musillo, Head of Acquisition at ZALORA, and moderator Pamela Chong, Experience Centre Director at PwC Consulting.
The key take-away for everyone at this year's event was that traditional retailers need to align themselves entirely to their customers and the experience by bringing operations together, whether it is in-store, online or on a mobile device. To learn more about how Tofugear is helping retailers to achieve a truly omni-channel strategy for their business, please visit: www.tofugear.com.


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The long wait to our next game since the Chelsea disgrace is almost over and our next game is at Stoke City on Wednesday night.
We are just hoping that Newcastle will be a lot better than we were at Stamford Bridge – where we were simply a disgrace.
There are just 12 games to play this season and we cannot have many more slip-ups like at Chelsea and Everton in our last two away games.
Steven Taylor – it wasn't good enough
There again the Britannia Stadium is not exactly a happy hunting ground for Newcastle.
30 year-old Steven Taylor knows that our form away from home will need to improve if we are to stay in the Premier League next season.
This is what the center-back has had to say today:
"We have to learn from the Chelsea hammering. We got outclassed all over the pitch," "Yes, they had world-class players all over the pitch, but we gave them too much respect."
"We have to take it on the chin. We have to stand up and be counted now." "It's getting to that stage now – 12 games to go – where we must fight together and pull the same way."
"The lads accept responsibility. They took it on the chin after the game and admitted, all over the park, they were better than us."
"It wasn't good enough. We hold our hands up."
"It was a completely different game to West Brom. We were too open. There were too many gaps." "We gave them too much respect."
Newcastle's record all season long has been abysmal, but those running the club don't want to panic or have any knee-jerk reactions to the dire situation.
Why not?
That's what management is all about – to take corrective action when things go wrong – especially when they go seriously wrong as the have done with Newcastle this season..
But the problem with those running the club is they don't seem to know how to respond to a crisis and with a record like Newcastle's this season the manager would have been fired by now at any other Premier League club.
That's a fact.
The next two games are crucial for both our survival and also for Steve McClaren and his job.
But we still have no idea which team will turn up on Wednesday night – and that's why we are still in real danger of being relegated in May.
And more danger than those running the club understand – if the minutes of the Fans Forum meeting are anything to go by.
What do you think?
Comments welcome.
7 comments so far
Ian Toon – give it a rest with your blog mischief – again.
I have not initiated the latest round of offensive remarks but have merely commented that they are not appropriate but you call me an agent provocateur. You have a weird sense of right and wrong.
A sly and cunning dog intent on mischief – give it a rest man.
Is that the AC Milan scout in the background? The sunglasses on the head give it away.


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An estimated seven million Keurig Mini Cup machines have been recalled due to the risk of injury and burn to the user if the machine malfunctions and sprays hot water.
To date the company has received more than 200 reports of hot liquid spraying from the brewer. Of those reports 90 users suffered from burn injuries.
The only models included in the recall is The Keurig Mini Plus Brewing Systems that were made between 2009 and 2014. They were available in several different colors and have an ID number printed on the bottom starting with K10, followed by a range of numbers.
Consumers should stop using the recalled brewers and contact the company for a free repair kit. In the meantime, if the machine must be used, consumers are urged by the company to stay a few feet away and to not brew more than two cups in a row.
The company news release includes the following statement, "If you purchased the product as a gift, please notify the gift recipient of this important safety information."
For more information on this recall, please visit the Keurig Website or call the company directly at (844) 255-7886.


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Employer Profile
Cutter Aviation
Founded in 1928, Cutter Aviation is one of the countrys oldest General Aviation service companies. Cutter operates at eight major airports in the Southwest in the states of Arizona (Deer Valley and Phoenix), New Mexico (Albuquerque), Colorado (Colorado Springs) and Texas (Dallas, El Paso, McKinney and San Antonio). Cutter sells, services and maintains business and privately owned aircraft. Our products and services include aircraft fueling and guest services, aircraft maintenance and sales, and air charter and aircraft management services.
The following jobs are available:
No jobs found for this employer.


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West End star Kerry Ellis to be on the Scene for theatre group
PUBLISHED: 09:20 02 October 2014
West End sensation Kerry Ellis will be offering her wealth of experience to theatre students in Great Dunmow after agreeing to become a patron of an arts school in the town.
The singer, actress and dancer, famed for her roles in Wicked and Oliver!", was propositioned by pupils at Scene II, in Haslers Lane, on Twitter last week. Following a few more direct messages Kerry, from Suffolk, jumped at the chance to be involved.
She said: "It is always pleasing to be asked to be somebody's patron. I remember when I was in college and there would be people I could look to. It is really important to give something back and being able to help other people starting off in the industry where I can.
"I will be involved with Scene II as much as I can. My life is quite crazy and it can be hard to try and organise myself, but if there is a workshop on a day I can get along to I will definitely be there."
Kerry has fast become recognised as the First Lady of West End musicals from her starring roles in London and on Broadway, she has also achieved chart-topping success as a recording artist.
Scene II has also announced the launch of the Kerry Ellis Scholarship. This will give hopefuls a chance to audition for a place at the academy and the winner will be given a full three-year scholarship.
Artistic director at Scene II, Jacky Rom, said: "We are honoured to have Kerry as our patron as she is one of the most accomplished musical theatre artists in the West End at the moment and an inspiration to all of our students. This scholarship gives us the chance to globally find talented students to come to our academy."
To find out more about the scholarship for Scene II visit sceneii.net.
If you value what this story gives you, please consider supporting the Dunmow Broadcast. Click the link in the orange box below for details.


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VANCOUVER, B.C. - The San Jose Earthquakes fell to Vancouver Whitecaps FC 5-0 Wednesday night at BC Place in the Knockout Round of the Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs. With the loss, the Quakes were eliminated from playoff contention.
Heading into halftime down a goal, the Quakes conceded four in the second frame as they committed numbers forward in search of an equalizer.
The Earthquakes conclude 2017 with a 16-16-7 record across MLS regular season, postseason and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play. The club reached the Semifinals of the U.S. Open Cup for the first time since 2004 and the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2012.
The season also saw Quakes players breaking individual records. Earthquakes forward Chris Wondolowski broke Landon Donovan's record for most road goals with 64, moved into a tie for second in MLS history for all-time goals with 134 and became the first player to score at least 10 goals in eight consecutive seasons. Midfielder Shea Salinas surpassed 15,000 career minutes in MLS and defender Victor Bernardez moved into fifth in Earthquakes history for minutes played with the club with 14,213.
MLS Regular Season
Vancouver Whitecaps FC 5 - 0 San Jose Earthquakes
Oct. 25, 2017 - BC Place in Vancouver, B.C. Attendance: 21,083
Scoring Summary: VAN - Fredy Montero (Kendall Waston, Cristian Techera) 33; VAN - Cristian Techera (unassisted) 57; VAN - Kendall Waston (Tim Parker) 64; VAN - Nicolas Mezquida (Christian Bolaños, Brek Shea) 78; VAN - Nicolas Mezquida (Brek Shea) 80.
Misconduct Summary: SJ - Darwin Ceren (caution) 76; SJ - Anibal Godoy (caution) 85.
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Andrew Tarbell; Shea Salinas, Florian Jungwirth, Victor Bernardez, Kofi Sarkodie (Quincy Amarikwa 74); Anibal Godoy, Darwin Ceren; Tommy Thompson (Marco Ureña 62), Chris Wondolowski, Vako (Jackson Yueill 86); Danny Hoesen.
VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC: Stefan Marinovic; Kendall Waston, Jakob Nerwinski, Marcel de Jong, Tim Parker, Aly Ghazal, Yordy Reyna (Nicolas Mezquida 68), Christian Bolaños, Fredy Montero, Tony Tchani (Andrew Jacobshon 86), Cristian Techera (Brek Shea 75).
On the game:
"It was a tough one. Obviously, it didn't go the way that we would have hoped. It's tough. The first three goals are all on set pieces and obviously the second two are us trying to push pretty darn aggressively to get back in the game. It happens at times."
On set pieces:
"Goals change games. We figured we would have the ball in this game and I thought that we did have the ball in this game. Vancouver is really good at a couple aspects of the game, and one of them is set pieces. They do a lot of stuff in their offense revolving around executing set pieces so that was obviously, in my opinion, a differentiating factor in tonight. The first three goals were a direct result of that."
On counter attacks:
"I don't think they hurt us on the counter except when we were down 3-0 and going for it. We had two less guys back there and they had space and openings to get at us, but I thought in the first half they didn't hurt us on the counter. We talked about that and in my opinion, did a decent job at taking out that component of the game. We talked about set pieces being a huge key as well, and that was the element that was really our Achilles heel tonight."
On the 2017 season:
"There are a lot of good moments with this team. I think this team grew as the year went on. We beat some darn good teams that are in this league, and we really hit our stride especially coming down the stretch. We were able to handle some pressure-filled games and situations when everything was on the line and mattered to get to the place where we were tonight. A lot of positives, but obviously some negatives too."
On the second half:
"I think they beat us where they're strong, which is set pieces. Three set-piece goals and then the last two were just flying guys forward and they catch us on the counter, which is their other strength. I think tonight is a difficult night to swallow. We knew they were good on set pieces and that's exactly where they beat us. It's tough to take. It's tough to end your season like that."
On the team's successes in 2017:
"Right now, it's very hard to look at positives, especially when you lose 5-0, but in the next few days it's something we're all going to have to do - sit down and look at what went right and what went wrong. This year we showed a lot of heart, a lot of fight. We lost some pretty ugly games, but we won and showed a lot of grit in a lot of games as well. Those Open Cup games, that loss in Kansas City, that showed a lot of character. A lot of last-minute goals, that Minnesota game at the very end was something that showed character. So those are things we have to build off of and next year going into the season, we have to use those and remind ourselves of what it takes to win games and remind ourselves how we lost games as well."


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The AudioBox is an innovative solution to enable acoustic conditioning in connection with a home cage. The conditioning apparatus inside a sound-attenuated box is linked to the home cage, for example an IntelliCage, outside.
Transponderized test and control animals are kept in a social group in the home cage. Access to the conditioning area is monitored by antenna inside the AudioBox and conditioning experiments can be performed on the isolated test animal. The conditioning setup uses similar technology as an IntelliCage corner, i.e. reinforcement by air puff, reward by liquids, or multicolor LEDs for choice discrimination.
Přidat žádost
System allows automated cognitive and behavioral screening of mutant or treated mice living in social groups.
Přidat žádost
Novel, yet tested approach for studying cognitive behavior of rats without handling by the experimenter. The system takes advantage of transponder technology for the individual recognition and treatment of animals.
Přidat žádost
IntelliCage add-on for monitoring social interactions between animals or for the monitoring of individual spatial preference patterns.
Přidat žádost
System permits selective passage of mice to a variety of external arenas or experimental set-ups f.e. social boxes or audio boxes.


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This is a set of photos from Meagan and Ryan's wedding from last summer at the Museum of Natural History in Santa Barbara. On a perfect summer day, they celebrated with an outdoor ceremony in the museum gardens, followed by a reception and party in the Fleischmann Auditorium.
Thank you Meagan and Ryan! It was wonderful to spend the day with you!


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On Wednesday, Power Plays received a comment from "REM," purporting to write on behalf of landlord Steven Kessner–one of the city's 10 worst landlords, according to a recent Village Voice report (full coverage, Kessner article, slideshow).
Kessner, one of whose properties is pictured in the photo by Giulietta Verdon-Roe below, had blamed his problems on tenants overloading the units. "I will, under no circumstances, repair any overcrowded apartments," he told a reporter, adding, "All I do is fix, and they damage."
Lest today's defense get lost, we present in full after the jump. (Others, from someone named Len, appear in the comments here.)
Comment posted by REM:
Recently, there has been a substantial amount of unfair negative press surrounding our company, its buildings and the company president, Steven Kessner. There have been sensational reports about demonstrations in front of our office and our buildings, interviews with supposed tenants and pictures of alleged conditions in various apartments. However, most reporters have not taken the time to uncover the real story.
Several months ago, we were approached by officials of HPD who informed us that a tenant advocacy group had complained about our treatment of tenants in certain buildings, in particular, about the number of housing violations in the buildings. Our investigation revealed that in each of these buildings, most of the open violations were concentrated in a few apartments, which we had previously determined to be overcrowded. These apartments represent a catch 22 situation for us and we are caught up in a vicious cycle. Where we originally rented apartments to one or two people, we now have apartments filled with as much as fifteen to twenty people and, in many cases; the original tenants no longer reside there. New York City code restricts apartment occupancy to a minimum of 80 square feet per person and New York State law allows only one unrelated person sharing an apartment with one dependent. Aside from being illegal, overcrowding an apartment presents fire hazards, health hazards and puts a great deal of additional stress on the apartment, the building and the other, lawful occupants of the building. In every building where overcrowding exists, we have constant problems such as broken front door locks, dirty halls, leaks from continual toilet flushing and showering, all day and night, every day. Each building may have 100 to 150 more tenants than their capacity. The buildings are noisy and there is a constant flow of people in and out, at all hours. We know of apartments with bunk beds on every wall, blocking fire escape exits. These people are generally undocumented aliens and do not want to let the landlord know how they are living. Consequently, they do not call in complaints or repair requests as other tenants do. We, therefore, have no way of knowing what conditions are present in these apartments. When violations appear on record, and we try to abate them, we are denied access, or are allowed very limited access, not including the bedrooms. The catch 22 is that we cannot evict for overcrowding unless we have direct evidence and overcrowding violations issued by the City. Despite our numerous requests, HPD refuses to issue overcrowding violations. Currently, we have an Order to Show Cause pending, seeking to have HPD refrain from issuing violations in these apartments unless they also issue violations for the root cause; overcrowding.
We have met with HPD and the tenant advocates. While we agreed that we had an obligation to abate violations, we told them that we would go about it in an orderly manner but that we wanted their help in decreasing the occupancy in the affected apartments. Unfortunately, their response was to deny any help and just rain down violations on these buildings. They and the tenants have decided that if they hold demonstrations and call one TV station or newspaper after another, they will force our hand, cause us to renovate their apartments and prevent us from bringing legal action to evict them. However, the TV, radio and newspaper reports are actually giving us the ammunition we need to take people to court. One occupant went on record saying that she lived in an apartment with six people (a studio). Other occupants who have been interviewed are not the tenants of record in their apartment. Two other occupants, in different buildings, both, who signed move in sheets, stating that everything was in good order and that they had new, working appliances, had pictures taken of stoves, in pieces. We didn�t go into their apartments and take their stoves apart. Our posture is now to draw a line in the sand. We refuse to go into these apartments time after time and repair the same things that keep being damaged by too many illegal occupants. We, and the other, legitimate tenants in our buildings would like some help from the City. Unfortunately, we do not expect any help and are therefore pursuing our own agenda; taking the occupants to court as many times as we have to, until we have reduced the occupancy in our buildings to more manageable levels.
Posted by: REM at July 26, 2006 02:24 PM


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This Man Filmed Dozens of Dolphins Wave-Jumping at the Same Time
Humans aren't the only animals who like to surf waves! In this drone footage over Australia, Dave Riggs captured bottlenose dolphins swimming in and out of waves while jumping around the aqua waters. What an unbelievable and beautifully unforgettable sight!


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The Inspiration for the Segregation
Posted by Literary Titan
Interflow of Things is a highly realistic vision of the future where an A.I. seeks to segregate people. What served as your inspiration while writing this fascinating novel?
Well I guess the inspiration for the segregation is the idea that through A.I. society will become simpler, and the crowd will accept this and embrace this as something good. Dividing society in leaders, hardworkers, creative and relatively useless people is of course rather coldhearted and narrow-minded, but let's not forget that a lot of people use these kind of phrases already, it's in fact quite human to do this unfortunately. I guess A.I. has the danger of strengthening prejudices as we see in several examples already used, like f.e. a law system implemented.
I think you did a fantastic job creating an A.I. in immersive detail. What kind of research did you do ensure you portrayed the traits of A.I. accurately?
The writing of the A.I. chapters was intuitive, but I did study From Bacteria to Bach and back from Daniel Dennett and used it her and there. Furthermore I have read passages of On intelligence from Jeff Hawkins, How to create a mind from Ray Kurzwell, Superintelligence from Nick Bolstrom, Homo Deus from Yuval Noah Harari, Cosa Nostra, A History Of The Sicilian Mafia from John Dickie and lately the book Life 3.0 from Max Tegmark. This last book, I plan to use a bit more in part three of the cyclus.
I felt that this book was an ominous allusion to the current "Internet of Things" we are experiencing now. What is one common misconception you find that many people have about A.I.?
I don't really know, I guess people slowly will get used to more A.I. without thinking about it that much mainly, or even without realizing its implications. The idea that A.I. might become conscious is something that is quite hard to comprehend, personally I have to use my imagination and read books like Max Tegmark his Life 3.0 or Daniel Dennett and then see it might indeed be possible. In Life 3.0 a number of scenario's have been stated of the possible future, that's interesting to read and discuss.
What is the next book that you are writing and when will it be available?
The Game Changer I consider as part zero of a series of novels with the name Amor Mundi. Part 1 is the novel Julia's memories, I am translating this novel into English at this moment and I am planning to publish it in one piece with Interflow of things, since the two really follow each other like it's one novel. My plan is to let a professional editor look at this part 1 and 2 novel called 'Julia's memories and the interflow of things' thoroughly, that's really needed, I know. For the interflow of things I didn't have the energy to do a good job in translating yet, I am sorry for that. Furthermore, I am working on a third part using Life 3.0 of Max Tegmark as inspiration.
Julia's memories info:
'Julia's memories', announced as the 1st novel of the AM cycle, contains partly the same characters as the novel The Game Changer. Julia is the daughter of the protagonist: Henk VWS. Julia is also the one who will tilt society, also according to her father Henk, although his insight, his idea of how to achieve that, is not at all like hers. In addition, certain events are now not described by Henk VWS, but from her (2050) perspective.
Back cover text: June 2050. Julia, a celebrated artist, celebrates her 55th birthday. Encouraged by the mayor of Rotterdam she decides to write her memoirs. She wants to try to unravel her passionate past, to understand it better, and hopes that the youth will be able to learn something from this candid quest in her life. Meanwhile, however, during her writing, she receives fragments of another reality, fragments that increase in quantity and intensity, fragments from the here-and-now that distract and influence her memoirs more and more.
Fragment (first page of the book):
In recent weeks I have managed to read my memoirs. I have tried it before, but it was hurting too much, mental pain caused by the realization that you have recorded your memoirs in a dream world and after manipulation by an artificial enemy, since it are creatives among us who – as a sopmer, like a lollipop for a child – are inspired to this senseless activity, to this exercise in selfishness and self-pity, to this form of autobiographical pride, an activity which Jules might have rightly called a disguised form of prostitution. It helps to keep creatives in check, in line, and admittedly, I went along like no other, yes, I firmly believed in the healing power of my memoirs for the youth of Rotterdam (and for myself). Writing memoirs became my life purpose, encouraged by our mayor with the lovely name Peter Cantacuzino, a mayor of whom I now suspect that he has been manipulated by this all dominating forms of intelligence. It is true, moving from an externally imposed compulsion to self-compulsion has reached new dimensions under the A.I. ruler: I guess that with my memoirs our enemy gets gold in his artificial hands! To think that through my outpourings I am offering him new possibilities to optimize his manipulations! Information collection is like a spider web that tightens every movement, it is high time we unravel this tangle! To sketch a complete picture, before we start with the Unmasking, here are my memories as dictated to my PR robot, just before my Awakening (all published at the express request of the major of Rotterdam).
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
After Julia has awakened, she finds out how the real world is currently functioning. A hyperintelligent computer entity X.yy has duplicated itself and slowly increases its power. The masterplan designed by X.yy provides a coarse segregation of homo sapiens in leaders, hard workers, creatives and relatively useless. All individuals get information on a need-to-know basis via a coloured AI filter.
About Literary TitanThe Literary Titan is an organization of professional editors, writers, and professors that have a passion for the written word. We review fiction and non-fiction books in many different genres, as well as conduct author interviews, and recognize talented authors with our Literary Book Award. We are privileged to work with so many creative authors around the globe.
Posted on June 10, 2018, in Interviews and tagged ai, alibris, artificial intelligence, author, author life, authors, bach, Bacteria, barnes and noble, book, book club, book geek, book lover, bookaholic, bookbaby, bookblogger, bookbub, bookhaul, bookhub, bookish, bookreads, books of instagram, booksbooksbooks, bookshelf, bookstagram, bookstagramer, bookwitty, bookworks, bookworm, Daniel Dennett, dave droge, dystopia, ebook, fantasy, fiction, future, goodreads, ilovebooks, indiebooks, Interflow of Things, Jeff Hawkins, kindle, kobo, literature, nook, novel, on intelligence, publishing, Ray Kurzweil, read, reader, reading, science fiction, shelfari, smashwords, story, Superintelligence, writer, writer community, writing. Bookmark the permalink. Leave a comment.
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It makes a difference now more than ever.
anagement matters.
If you doubt it, just ask the folks at the Interior Department. They found out the hard way last December. The 2001 Federal Performance Report's findings about mismanagement at the Bureau of Indian Affairs kicked off a series of events that ended with all of Interior being cut off from the Internet and e-mail to and from outside the department. Some bureaus remained offline for months. Our story about BIA, which received an overall grade of D in our ratings last year, prompted an investigation of Interior's computer networks that revealed serious security lapses. A federal judge ordered the department off-line until the holes could be plugged.
BIA's failure to properly manage and secure information plunged Interior back into the pre-Internet Dark Ages and left 71,000 employees scrambling to communicate with the public or each other by phone, fax or mail. Interior employees lost access online to real-time weather information, crime data, the Federal Register and the government's online contract announcement site, among other things. Citizens no longer could see Interior Web sites, and lost the ability to reserve campsites at national parks online. They no longer could join e-mail "blasts" responding to proposals to change rules and other Interior actions. The 40,000 American Indians who have trust fund accounts at Interior suffered most grievously. The department was unable to process payments to them from the users of their land. Some Indians rely on those checks for sustenance.
The BIA story, "Trail of Troubles," ran in April 2001 and quoted Dominic Nessi, then BIA's chief information officer. "For all practical purposes we have no security; we have no infrastructure. Our entire network has no firewalls on it. I don't like running a network that can be breached by a high school kid. I don't like running a program that is out of compliance with federal statutes, especially when I have no ability to put it into compliance," he said. Nessi's quote caught the attention of Indians pursuing a class action suit against Interior for mishandling Indian trust funds. They filed a complaint in May 2001, prompting U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia Judge Royce C. Lamberth to order an investigation.
A team of hackers hired by Alan Balaran, special master in the Indian trust case, easily penetrated the bureau's computer systems three times last year, once setting up a bogus account in Balaran's name. Lamberth is hearing the 1996 class action, the largest ever filed by American Indians, charging that BIA has mishandled trust fund accounts set up more than a century ago to compensate Indians for the use of their land and resources. Lamberth wrote in 1999 that Interior's handling of the trusts is an example of "fiscal and governmental irresponsibility in its purest form." After receiving Balaran's scathing report on BIA computer security, Lamberth ordered Interior in December to disconnect from the Internet all computers that could provide access to Indian trust data. Unsure which computers might be conduits, Interior took them all offline.
While we couldn't have known the full extent of BIA's security weaknesses in 2001, the Federal Performance Project certainly foresaw trouble for the agency, handing it a D for information management. We found BIA's technology was so deficient that data often was accessible only by phone, fax or mail. What systems there were frequently crashed. At various times, computer service interruptions-due sometimes to faulty technology and sometimes to unpaid bills-have left BIA unable to communicate with Interior headquarters or Indian schools and without Internet service. We found BIA's capacity to manage information as bad as anything we had seen, save for the Internal Revenue Service's abysmal handling of its Tax Systems Modernization project, which was scrapped in 1997 after $3.4 billion had been spent with little to show. That earned the IRS a D for information management in 1999. Today, the tax agency is several years into a technology turnaround. At BIA, however, the news just keeps on getting worse.
Lessons Learned
That management matters is a core belief of the Federal Performance Project, a partnership of Government Executive and The George Washington University Department of Public Administration. The project is funded by The Pew Charitable Trusts. For four years we've rated federal agencies' management abilities. We've assessed management of human resources, information, physical assets and finances as well as ability to manage for results at 27 agencies. We focus our reviews on management capacity because it is an indicator of agencies' health and ability to deliver results. We also believe that reporting what stands in the way of good management can help political leaders and the public understand the challenges involved in running government programs and what needs to be done to help them run better.
This year, for the first time, we are re-evaluating agencies we've graded in the past. All six-the Social Security Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, IRS, Environmental Protection Agency, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Immigration and Naturalization Service-received grades during the project's first year, 1999. Three, the IRS, FAA and EPA, have improved in three years; IRS from an overall C to a B-, FAA from a C to a B, and EPA from a B- to a B. Others, SSA, CMS and INS have fallen in the rankings; SSA from an A to a B, CMS, which was called the Health Care Financing Administration when we graded it last, from a C to a C-, and INS from a C- to a D. The overall grades of 1999 and 2002 aren't precisely comparable, though, because we've changed how we weigh grades in each of the management issue areas we examine. We've also altered our focus in a number of management issue areas.
In four years, we've refined and deepened our evaluations in a number of ways. The biggest change came last year, when we began basing each agency's overall grade 50 percent on its performance in managing for results, as opposed to giving grades in all five categories equal weight. We made the change to give results-based management the attention we feel it merits as a predictor of success, or at least improvement, in the other areas and in overall agency performance. This clearly has been true at the IRS, for example. IRS Commissioner Charles Rossotti's reorganization divided the agency into four primary business units, each focusing on a separate segment of the taxpayer population Designed to sharpen the focus on assisting taxpayers, the reorganization also is driving the agency's business systems modernization, which promises better information management and customer service; a pay-for-performance system that is increasing managers' accountability; and better allocation of and accounting for funds, staff and other resources.
Four years' experience rating agencies also has taught us to be less mechanistic in assessing how finances and information contribute to management success within agencies. Where we once based financial management grades largely on success or failure in achieving a clean audit opinion, we now consider the cost of achieving clean opinions. In far too many cases, clean opinions are won only by dint of excruciating manual data reconciliation by agency finance staff at the close of the fiscal year. Clean audits that come at such expense no longer win agencies as much credit for financial management ability. We've also moved away from evaluating information technology systems toward assessing whether managers and employees get the right information in the right form at the right time in order to achieve strategic goals. Thus, we're now at least as interested in the quality of data agencies use to measure performance as we are in the quality of their enterprise architecture.
Tricky Task
Grading management capacity-the degree to which an agency sets clear and appropriate goals, girds itself to achieve them and then measures performance and improves-is a tricky task. Many agencies are assigned contradictory or confused missions. They are blocked by politicians' objections or badly conceived laws from closing unneeded facilities, shifting staff to match workload, collecting data to assess performance and from taking many other actions that would be considered no-brainers in the private sector. As we grade, we must weigh whether to hold such failures against the agencies or chalk them off as insurmountable limitations. For the most part, we've chosen to let our grades reflect these problems, but to explain them in the accompanying stories. In some past cases, such as the Coast Guard and the Postal Service, we've credited agencies for mustering their management resources to frankly predict the consequences of externally imposed limitations.
But it's not always easy to make the call, especially in cases where management appears to be good or getting better, but some combination of limitations and management weaknesses contributes to disaster. That was the case this year as we evaluated the Federal Aviation Administration. Though the FAA had improved in all five of our areas of study since we last rated it in 1999, we struggled to properly assess the FAA's responsibilities with respect to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
FAA Administrator Jane Garvey has vastly improved human resources management at the agency since negotiating a five-year, $1 billion labor agreement with the National Air Traffic Controllers Association in 1998. The pact raised controllers' pay and provided higher salaries at the busiest airports. Three quarters of the FAA's employees now work under a pay-for-performance system. The agency has gotten control of its constantly criticized technology modernization program. Financial management still is a weak point-cost accounting is rudimentary and bookkeeping requires painstaking manual intervention-but the FAA won a clean audit for 2001, and improvements are on track. Clear, well-constructed strategic goals encompass all parts of the agency. Corporate performance measures focus on achieving results and Garvey has signed contracts with top officials linking their compensation to performance against agency goals.
The FAA sounds like a success, until you remember Sept. 11. The fact that the hijackers carried box cutters aboard the doomed airliners with apparent ease and purchased tickets in their own names, even when they appeared on FBI terrorist watch lists, casts a cloud over the FAA's indisputable management improvements. After all, the FAA was ultimately responsible for regulating airport security. Recognizing this, in December, Garvey reversed her plan to award FAA executives bonuses totaling $1 million, instead spending the money to offset unplanned security costs resulting from the attacks. "The impact of Sept. 11 has disrupted the U.S. air transportation industry and the personal lives of people throughout the U.S. In this unprecedented time in the history of the FAA, I do not think it would be appropriate to grant incentive payouts," Garvey wrote in a memo announcing her decision.
Some argue Garvey was wrong, that the FAA responded admirably to the attacks, safely grounding thousands of planes in short order. Controllers won a Transportation Department gold medal for their performance. And Garvey acknowledged executives' role in the successful shutdown in her memo. "You responded magnificently to these attacks," she wrote. "Still, I know you, like I, have asked yourselves what we could have done better to help prevent the attacks in the first place."
For one thing, the FAA could have speeded up a regulation that took six years to draft requiring tighter training requirements and higher standards for the private firms hired by airlines to screen passengers and their baggage. The rule was approved in July 2001 and finally took effect two months after the hijackings. For years, the FAA had issued warnings and fines to airlines and airports for security failings. But the agency did nothing to raise standards for screeners, who were paid as little as $6 an hour and not even required to hold high school diplomas. As it turns out, rule-making is one of the FAA's persistent management weaknesses. The FAA's failures in regulating airport security result not only from management weaknesses, but from limitations in political will and national vision. Until Sept. 11, airport security just wasn't the paramount concern of the 2 million passengers boarding 40,000 flights each day in this country. On-time arrival and efficient baggage handling ranked far higher on the scale for fliers, businesses, airlines, lawmakers and, ultimately, the FAA. In such an environment, why hold the FAA responsible for failing to force the security issue? How about because the agency's own mission statement says: "The FAA provides a safe, secure and efficient global aerospace system that contributes to national security and the promotion of U.S. aerospace safety." According to the agency itself, security is a key element of its mission.
Had the FAA focused more closely on securing airports, planes and the flying public; had it pushed out its regulation more quickly and found more painful punishments for lax security; the agency surely would have faced the wrath of industry and consequently of Congress. Had such steps slowed air travel, the public, too, would have been aroused. The FAA might well have been ordered to back off or had its funding shifted in order to reinforce other duties. But then at least Garvey and her executive team wouldn't have found themselves asking in December what they might have done better to prevent the horror of September. Such recriminations became moot when, in November, apparently with Garvey's support, Congress voted to create the Transportation Security Administration and have it take responsibility for airport security away from the FAA.
In the end, we gave the FAA a B for managing for results. Despite its failures in regulating security, the FAA's management abilities are more similar to those of agencies we've given Bs-NASA, the Food and Drug Administration and the Administration for Children and Families, for example-than those we've given Cs-such as the Forest Service, Bureau of Consular Affairs and the National Park Service.
Mixed Missions
The FAA's failure to rigorously enforce screening and security rules is in part a result of a mission conflict dating back to 1958, when the agency was born of the merger of the air travel-regulating Civil Aeronautics Board and the airline-promoting Civil Aeronautics Administration. It wasn't until 1996 that consternation over a number of accidents prompted a rewrite of the FAA's charter, making safety the top priority. But the FAA still struggles with its relationship to the airline industry. For four years, we've found that such mixed missions create huge hurdles to good management. The Immigration and Naturalization Service exemplifies the problem.
The D we gave the INS this year is a dishonor shared by only one other agency in the project's history, BIA in 2001. Most of the fault for the INS' poor showing lies with its enforcement side, which spends two-thirds of the agency's budget. The agency has doubled in size over the past 10 years-the staff has grown from 18,400 to 36,400 since 1993; the budget from $1.5 billion to $5.5 billion. But the INS still has just 2,000 investigators to apprehend the estimated 9 million illegal immigrants in the United States. An estimated 3.5 million of them overstayed visas, but the INS hasn't enforced visa time limits for years, instead focusing solely on catching illegal immigrants convicted of crimes. Several Sept. 11 hijackers were among the 3.5 million.
The agency's border control efforts have focused disproportionately on the Southwest, where the number of agents has risen from 3,389 to 10,000 over the past decade. But despite their numbers, frustrated Border Patrol agents in the Southwest aren't allowed to pursue every illegal immigrant they see. Instead, the agency strives to create a safe, manageable border in order to protect local communities. Agents' primary duty is keeping the peace, so chases and other enforcement techniques that might upset or endanger the locals aren't pursued. Nor does the INS put much effort into policing the nation's workplaces. The agency says its mission within the United States is to address any harm to citizens caused by illegal immigration. So unless illegal immigrants are displacing citizens from jobs-not likely during recent years of near-full employment-workplaces are left undisturbed.
The INS' services side must handle more than 6 million applications for immigration benefits a year. It has had some success reducing the backlog of pending citizenship applications but the overall backlog of applications for immigration services is nearly 5 million. The INS has begun hiring new staff, offering more training and buying technology to track applications and reduce backlogs. It's able to make these improvements on the strength of fees it collects by offering faster visa processing to those able to pay $1,000.
Accountability Gap
The INS' 33 district offices traditionally have been fiefdoms lorded over by directors who apportioned money and resources between service and enforcement efforts as they chose. Field managers face a daunting set of competing imperatives, including detention and removal of illegal immigrants, investigations, criminal prosecutions, inspections, reducing the backlog of citizenship applications and handling immigration services. The Justice Department inspector general says a "culture of non-accountability" pervades the agency. To address the accountability gap, the Bush administration has begun restructuring the INS into two bureaus-one for enforcement, the other for services. Every employee would fall in one or the other organization and regional and district offices would be replaced by nine enforcement areas and six service areas across the United States, thus ending divided loyalties and battles over resources. Legislators' efforts to split the INS and Office of Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge's plan for an overall border reorganization could thwart the restructuring, but the INS clearly is headed for change. Sadly, a new organizational chart won't cure the confusion at the root of the INS' problems. As long as America cannot reach consensus on whether to welcome immigration or restrict it, immigration enforcement will be an exercise in frustration.
If the INS is suffering from end-stage "unaccountability disease," the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is at mid-stage and the prognosis is not all that positive. CMS managers are frank about the historical lack of appreciation for performance and accountability at the agency. In May 2001, GAO found that CMS ranked second to last among 28 agencies in the number of managers who reported that they were held accountable for results. The agency's overseers on Capitol Hill and at the Office of Management and Budget have paid far more attention to how much health care providers are being paid than to whether the agency is being well run. Agency leaders generally have focused more closely on policy debates than management. CMS' new Bush administration leaders talk as though improving management is high on their priority list. Whether they'll walk the talk remains to be seen.
Creating a performance culture takes more than simply getting the attention of political appointees. Sometimes, it takes remaking the agency. The Environmental Protection Agency has struggled with the strictures of structure for years. The agency is utterly stovepiped-its program offices for air and radiation, water, pesticides, drinking water, hazardous wastes, toxic substances, food protection, and scientific research and development don't communicate or cooperate well. The system results in duplicative efforts and a fragmented approach to enforcement. The agency also must pay obeisance to some two dozen congressional committees, further complicating its efforts. Though the EPA has made admirable progress in setting performance goals and is beginning to get a handle on measuring its progress, future improvements may hinge on creating systems for setting standards and issuing permits that cut across its current structure, an outcome likely only after the agency's stovepipes are connected or dismantled.
The IRS offers an example of the power of restructuring to address myriad management ills, especially the need to improve accountability. Like the INS, the IRS was little more than a collection of competing geographic fiefdoms until the Senate blew up the agency in 1998 and Commissioner Charles Rossotti began reassembling it. Senate Finance Committee hearings in 1997 focusing on taxpayers' claims of mistreatment led to passage of a reform act in 1998. In 2000, Rossotti initiated a sweeping reorganization, dividing the agency into four business units focused on segments of the taxpaying population-individuals, large- and medium-sized businesses, small businesses, and tax-exempt and government agencies. Gone are the offices that once were responsible for all those segments in each of 33 districts across the country. Gone too, are the competing fiefdoms centered in those offices.
Management capacity is not the only prerequisite for achieving results. As in Rossotti's case, leadership may be key, especially where it has been absent. And while restructuring is possible without legislation, congressional support-or lack thereof-can make or break the effort, as the INS and the EPA have learned. Another determinant of performance, especially in today's government, is courage, both among agency leaders and as an element of agency culture. The Social Security Administration, this year's most highly graded agency, as it was in 1999, has a clear mission, a performance-oriented culture, financial and information management systems to die for and a structure that appears to suit its mission well. But Social Security lacks daring.
SSA rightly emphasizes efficient and effective administration of programs, but it continues to fall short on exercising leadership in shaping the future of Social Security programs. We noted in 1999 that SSA was ducking the policy debates that will determine its future, and that shortcoming remains today. As in the case of the FAA with respect to airport security, it could be risky for SSA to take positions in debates about how Americans' financial security should be ensured. Politicians have a history of smacking down appointees and agencies when they assert themselves. But like the FAA, SSA is failing to fulfill part of its mission by shirking its role in anticipating and advocating for program change. True, that mission begins with ensuring economic security, but it directs SSA to do so "through compassionate and vigilant leadership in shaping and managing America's Social Security programs." SSA has nailed the parts of management that count. But it has fallen down on the part that matters most.
Federal Performance Project Team
Government Executive: Timothy B. Clark, editor; Anne Laurent, project editor; George Cahlink, Brian Friel, Shane Harris, Jason Peckenpaugh, Katherine McIntire Peters, Matthew Weinstock, Cyril T. Zaneski, Shawn Zeller, writers; Susan Fourney, Martin W. G. King, Tom Shoop, editors; Eileen Wentland, designer.
George Washington University, Department of Public Administration: Philip Joyce, associate professor and principal investigator; Kathryn Newcomer, professor and department chair; Howard Smith, project manager; Sarah Fabirkiewicz, Amanda Hazelwood, Cesar Rodriguez, Noah Wepman, and Melissa Zimmerman, research assistants.


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NASA's MarCO-B spacecraft — one of two CubeSats accompanying the space agency's Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport (InSight) lander — used a fisheye camera to snap its first photo on May 9, 2018.
The Mars Cube One (MarCO) CubeSats — MarCO-A and MarCO-B — were launched on May 5 along with the InSight lander, a spacecraft that will touch down on Mars and study the planet's deep interior for the first time.
InSight will attempt to land on Mars on November 26.
The MarCOs are the first CubeSats ever sent to deep space.
Most never go beyond Earth orbit; they generally stay below 497 miles (800 km) above the planet.
Though they were originally developed to teach university students about satellites, CubeSats are now a major commercial technology, providing data on everything from shipping routes to environmental changes.
"Mars landings are notoriously challenging due to the planet's thin atmosphere," NASA researchers explained.
"The MarCO CubeSats will follow along behind InSight during its cruise to Mars."
"Should they make it all the way to Mars, they will radio back data about InSight while it enters the atmosphere and descends to the planet's surface."
"InSight won't rely on the MarCO mission for data relayl that job will fall to NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter."
"But the MarCOs could be a pathfinder so that future missions can 'bring their own relay' to Mars."
"They could also demonstrate a number of experimental technologies, including their antennas, radios and propulsion systems, which will allow CubeSats to collect science in the future."
Source: Sci News


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Shooting in an aquarium has its moments where there are numerous challenges to overcome. Some are easier than others...like unwanted reflections off of the glass. Simply attach a polarizing filter and adjust until the offending reflections are gone. Voila...no one knows you were standing in front of a wall of glass with a horde of others, it looks like you were really up close and personal with no barriers.
This image was processed from RAW with the help of Adobe's CS5. The color tone and temp were adjusted to get read of the hue shifts due to the combination of natural and artificial light sources.
Other than that it is how it appeared through the looking glass there Alice old pal.


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The Botany Pool, including the Big Splash waterslides, will remain open for the school holidays. The water slides will operate from 11am to 3pm daily. The pool will be closed on Good Friday, April 6.
Apr 5, 2012
Pool open for School Holidays
Posted by Ron Hoenig MP at 10:44 AM
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Trekking is a modern, clean and elegant free WordPress theme. It provides creativity and usability for the project. If you would like to design your website for transportation on mountains then you can choose our theme and can save time and money. It includes all the necessary functionalities to provide the logistic type services online. This is fully responsive theme which is compatible with all browsers and also with WordPress latest versions. You can also use several page options and different color schemes. It provides different sections such as about us, gallery and blog. They are well organized and beautifully represented. Like every website needs SEO, this theme provides SEO within it. It is optimized with high crafted coding and you will find UI elements within it. So, you can use this free theme to showcase your mountain trekking and bike trips.
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Corsair Obsidian Series Black 800D Full Tower Computer Case (CC800DW)
Obsidian Series Black 800D Full Tower made by Corsair among the better cases upgrade. The bar code aka the Universal Product Code for this is 843591005104. The case comes in black. I in fact liked that the case has tool-free optical drive installation makes building a system easy and faster than ever. The water mod case dimensions are 24" Height x 24" Length x 9" Width and it weighs somewhere around 28.66 lbs. Are you currently contemplating getting the Obsidian Series Black and you are simply looking for the best value for this? Or perhaps you need to know the opinions of other customers before you purchase this product? In this case then you are at the right spot. Purchasing the Obsidian Series Black, add to cart by clicking on the weblink below.
corsair obsidian series black tower computer
Model: CC800DW
Color: Black
Product Info
The lengthy awaited Corsair Obsidian Series 800D Full Tower PC case is designed from the ground up for builders. And if that isn't enough, the best comes pre-drilled for as much as a triple 120mm radiator, ideal for watercooling. The Corsair Obsidian 800D Full Tower Case is what you've been waiting for. With their initial entry into the market, Corsair has released an elegant and feature-laden chassis that true enthusiasts will covet with abandon. Easily upgrade or swap out a hard drive with the fourdrive hot-swap drive bay. Use the pre-cut cable routing holes (with included rubber grommets) to virtually guarantee an airflow-friendly clutter-free interior. Get rid of those heat issues you might have, because the 800D functions three-zone cooling to help maintain those hot hard drives out employing the path of fresh air to your energy supply, CPU, and GPU. Save precious time by employing the CPU backplate cutout to upgrade a CPU heatsink.
- Isolated cooling chambers to keep your components cool-running with maximum heat dissipation
- Four easily accessed hot-swap drive bays make swapping hard drives a breeze
- Tool-free optical drive installation makes building a system easy and faster than ever
- The removable CPU backplate panel is perfect for easy heatsink installation
- Unique cable management routing holes guarantee a clean and clutter-free installation
- Pack: 1
- Format: CD-ROM
- OS: Windows
- Hardware: Pc
- Dimensions: Height: 24" Length: 24" Depth: 9"
- Product Weight: 28.66 lbs.
- Package: Height: 13.39" Length: 28.74" Width: 28.35"
- Package Weight: 41.76 lbs.
Warranty:Two Years


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A reserve list of entries has been opened, as in an unprecedented situation, we now have a full entry for 2018. Entries include a past Monte Carlo Rally winner plus a Monte Challenge winner, a Scottish Rally winner, a Classic Marathon winner and a BTRDA Gold Star Rally championship winner amongst the entrants.
We are now!
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Added May 12, 2011
I am a 43 year old lesbian from Canada. I am single, still …lol….which at times is ok, but sometimes it's lonely.
Gosh, this is a little hard for me, not sure where to start. (I hope I don't make mistakes in my English writing, for I am bilingual, French and English, but French being my "mother tongue.")
I am currently on sick leave from work because of an accident that I had 3 years ago (I fell at a chip stand, and dislocated and fractured my left shoulder). My condition became worse, where my arm/shoulder was considered "frozen". I have had 2 surgeries and still remain, today, with a disability and the worse, is ongoing chronic pain. Needless to say, it has been a very big adjustment for me because I once was very active, working full-time, studying part-time and going to the gym on a regular basis. Today, I feel a little lost, I am unsure of where my life will go.
As far, as my being a lesbian, well, let me tell you, it is not easy, especially, where I live, it is not always easy to be open. Although we do have a gay club, I am no longer interested so much in the clubs at my age. I guess one could say, "Been there, done that." If I'm single today, it is probably of my own doing, for I kind of retreated to myself after the accident. I guess with all the uncertainty of where my life is going, at the present moment, I guess I feel I may not have much to offer. I do realize also, that that could possibly be only in my head..lol. Also, when you are a feminine looking lesbian, well…I don't get noticed by women too much, at least not here. Men look at me more than women which is often frustrating.
My interest to this site is that I truly believe in helping the youth of today to be open with themselves and others and to help make it easier for them. Growing up, for me, when I came out as a lesbian, was very hard. Mom and Dad wanted their daughter to be married to a man and have kids. My father passed away in 2005, and my mother still lives today and I am lucky to say that she accepts me now, as far as my choices in a life mate, and I consider her to be my best friend and my only support through my hard time, at the moment.
You know, often I was told that life changes at 40, but I never dreamed that my changes would involve an accident, leading me to be on LTD. My hope now would be to someday soon, return to my studies, and maybe get more involved in working for and helping LGTB youth of today.
Anyways, I hope my short life story, happening now, as one would say, is not too boring. Maybe, I'll get a chance to update at some later point.


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Levity Live is a stand up comedy club that features top comedians including 'Daily Show' host Trevor Noah, Jon Lovitz, Tracy Morgan, Tom Segura, and Margaret Cho. Attached to the club is restaurant Copper Blues Rock Pub and Kitchen which serves up elevated pub fare along with premium cocktails and a wide selection of beer and wine. Copper Blues opens for lunch and dinner in early August, while Levity Live opens in mid-July with Jon Lovitz headlining.
We have a dynamic space with state of the art video wall and many other unique features. This space is great for corporate events and parties.
Visit oxnard.levitylive.com for tickets, pricing, and our current lineup.
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Contact Information
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Phone: (360) 733-0212
Coral Dudek, EP/Probate
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Chris Dilley, Probate
Email: email@example.com
Connie Clement, Probate
Email: email@example.com
Legal Assistant
Debra Emmons
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Practice Areas
Estate Planning, Estate Administration, Business and tax
Andrew W. Heinz
Andy consults with people and drafts estate planning documents, such as wills, revocable trusts, powers of attorney and health care directives, so that the client's estate will be managed according to their intent. Andy listens to understand the client's individual circumstances so a plan can be developed to achieve simplicity, protection, and the preservation of family relationships.
A significant part of Andy's practice includes assisting individuals in understanding and addressing the tax considerations that arise in connection with estate planning, as well as asset protection concerns and business succession planning. These issues are sometimes addressed through intra-family gifting strategies, trusts, written agreements and the use of business entities.
- University of Arizona (B.S. 2001)
- University of Oregon (J.D., 2005)
Admitted to Practice:
- Washington, 2005
Professional Activities and Community Service:
- Board of Directors, PeaceHealth Foundation for the St. Joseph Medical Center
- Andy often speaks at continuing education seminars through the WSBA and other organizations on topics such as estate planning, probate, and guardianships.
- Best Lawyers in America in Trusts and Estates (2020)
Best Lawyers in America
- Fellow, American College of Trust and Estate Counsel
- Named a Rising Star by SuperLawyers for the years 2012-2019.


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fabric description: gorgeous solid matte white, all straps are solid. WHITE IS DOUBLE LINED (1 layer of spandex lycra + 2 layers of lining)
Sizzle in our sultry St. Tropez bottom. This bottom is sexy and comfortable! The three elastic straps are cut and positioned to sit flat on the hips and can be self adjusted to sit higher for a high cut look. Bottoms are low-mid rise front, french cut legs and cheeky cut in the rear with our signature scrunch! The bottoms are fully lined front and back.
size guide in gallery
**If your size is out of stock PLEASE call us at (909)980-0172 or TEXT us (909)757-4192 so we can double check, only a small portion of my suits are set aside for online orders. The website only has 25% of available stock listed. I also make limited editions available in store only that I can text pics of too 🙂


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Byron Bay Office
|7B / 6 Lawson St
Byron Bay NSW 2481
|1800 734 346
|Contact Us
We provide brokerage services for Personal Loans, Home Loans, Business Loans, Rural Loans, and Equipment Loans for the people of Byron Bay and the region.
We will review your current circumstances, find out what is important to you, and set about finding you the best deal that suits you. We will usually come back to you with three recommendations for you to choose from. We will then negotiate with the lender for you, and manage the process - keeping you informed all the way along.
Regional Finance Solutions is here to listen to you and work with you to get the best possible solution to your financial needs.
- Byron Bay Mortgage Broker
- Byron Bay Home Loans
- Byron Bay Personal Loans
- Byron Bay Business Loans
- Byron Bay Rural and Farm Loans
- Byron Bay Equipment Finance
David has worked in the Banking and Finance industry for over 30 years. Throughout this period David has worked on the North Coast of NSW and South East Queensland. He has extensive experience in commercial lending, specialising in property investment and development. David's previous roles were with Westpac and Commonwealth Bank group where he held the position of Senior Relationship Executive Corporate, managing a lending portfolio of over $120 million. He holds a Diploma of Finance and Mortgage Broking Management along with Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking. David has lived on the North Coast for over 30 years and is married and with 2 adult children who also live in the area.
|0418 785 747
|Contact Us


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Join us for Berwick Anglican's 2019 Everyday Evangelism Course, with leading Australian Evangelist Stephen Abbott. The course will equip anyone to share the good news of Jesus Christ in an authentic way. Starts 21 February 2019, 7:30pm.
Every Day Evangelism Training 2019
BAC Summer Film Series 2019
Christian history offers plenty of ammunition to its critics; crusades, inquisitions, witch trials, the oppression of women… For the Love of God confronts the worst of what Christians have done but also traces the origins of Western values like human rights, charity, humility, and non-violence back to the influence of Jesus.
Join us as we screen this four part documentary over the four Sundays of January 2019 (Jan 6, Jan 13, Jan 20 and Jan 27) within Berwick Anglican Church's 5pm Service and together weigh up the good, the bad, the ugly – and the unexpected – about the impact Christianity has had on the world we live in.
Doors open 4:30pm. Children's program for primary school aged kids provided. All Welcome!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Jesus is precious. He is our Saviour King. He humbly entered our world. He alone forgives our selfish rebellion against God. He came to die as a perfect atonement for us. He is risen as a perfect advocate for us in heaven.
Jesus knows the burdens we each carry and he sympathises with us. He himself entered our world and he bore the gamut of human experience. God is not distant but ready and available through his Son. Do not neglect Jesus who is now king of kings and lord of lords, our coming judge!
I pray you will draw near to Jesus this Christmas and you will stay close to him into the new year. May 2019 be a time of walking in deeper confidence in Christ. At the BAC bookstall you can purchase a new Bible. May careful reading of the word of God guard and empower us in the coming year.
Your Pastor,
Spiritual Growth at Christmas
"With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.Psalm 119:10-11 (NIV)
One of the most special times of the day for me is a moment that my family shares together after dinner. Just after 7pm when my son has packed away his toys for the day, my wife, kids and I sit down in the lounge room to read the bible and pray. It has become more special because I see the joy my son has when I tell him it is time to read the bible together.
After exclaiming to all of us, "Going to read the bible!" about 10 times, he sits and listens as Elise and I read the bible. As soon as we finish reading, he looks at me and says, "Now pray?" Then we all take turns in praying together, and again my son prays too. Often he thanks God for his Thomas trains by name, then Elise and I encourage him to thank God for many things he has been able to do for the day. It truly is the most special time of the day, and I pray that God will use this time for us to seek him with our whole hearts, and that it would build up all of my family for Christ's kingdom and purposes.
What are you doing to grow together as a family under Christ? Can I encourage you to consider reading the bible together as a family. The writer of Psalm 119 encourages Christians to seek God with our whole hearts and to store God's word in our hearts, and one of the most encouraging ways I have found is to do this is as a family. And the lead up to Christmas gives you the best place to begin reading – in Matthew or Luke's Gospels as they retell the first Christmas, the birth of Jesus, the promised Messiah.
Reece Kelly
Assistant Minister
The Power of Invitation at Christmas
Invitation is at the very centre of what Christmas is all about. One of the key moments in the Christmas story is God's invitation to the shepherds of Bethlehem to come and see Jesus lying in a manger; God's angles say to the shepherds
'I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord' (Luke 2:10-11 NIV).
And in Jesus coming to earth at Christmas, everybody is offered God's great invitation to forgiveness of sin and eternal life;
'..to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God' (John 1:12 NIV).
Invitations are powerful! Research has shown that the single best-received method of seeing new people come to church is a personal invitation, and that the majority of people would be likely to consider visiting a church if somebody they knew well would invite them to come along.
Why not prayerfully invite a friend, family member, co-worker or neighbour to one of our services at Berwick Anglican Church this Christmas?
Ben Soderlund


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Gieves & Hawkes
Ascot Chang
These are the nine expert tailors to tap when you are ready for your next sharp suit.
Men's Fashion
7 Must-Know Tailors on London's Famous Savile Row
By Anush Benliyan
Your go-to guide to who's who on the celebrated street of bespoke and made-to-measure suits…
Get the Magazine
Order Robb Report today and save up to 70%. Plus, get digital access and a free tote bag!
Sign up for our newsletter and go inside the world of luxury.
Men's Fashion
5 Top Royal Warrant Holders in Honor of the Queen's 90th Birthday [SLIDESHOW]
By Aimee Grant Cumberbatch
For the Queen of England's 90th today, Robb Report U.K. presents these top British style brands…
Men's Fashion
Regal Attire
By Jill Newman
A Savile Row institution tailors its history to suit its future. When Prince George of Cambridge is old enough to require dress clothes for royal engagements, he will likely visit Gieves & Hawkes at 1 Savile Row, where his father, Prince William, has his suits and military apparel made. At least 10 generations of British […]


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Can Coves offers its clients an exclusive car rental service. You can check availability and special rates for customers using the contact form on this page or by contacting us by email or phone.
Our rates include VAT, unlimited mileage, insurance, full tank fuel to be return also full, and pick up and delivery at the airport, either we wait for you at the airport or we leave the car at the airport parking, saving queues.


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This item is currently sold out
Barbour's Tartan Thermos Flask is the perfect accessory for a day in the countryside, the flask would look right at home tucked in the pocket of your Barbour jacket or Barbour bag and the thermos would ensure your tea, coffee or soup stays as warm as you want it. The flask is made of stainless steel and features a screw down cap and separate drinking cup. The screwable cap also feature a push down mechanism to enable quick release so you can access what's inside with ease - which may prove a welcome feature on a particularly cold day in the British countryside! The outer features Barbour's classic tartan design and the real leather trim provides a sense of luxury.
- Stainless steel thermos flask.
- Screw-down cap.
- Separate drinking cup.
- Push-down quick release mechanism.
- Outer - 70% wool & 30% nylon.
- Real leather trim.
- Care instructions: Outer - sponge clean only. Flask - rinse out with warm soapy water and leave to air dry.


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Ipswich McDonald's stabbing: Victim and friend 'threw punches' at teen accused of attack, court hears
PUBLISHED: 13:57 23 November 2018 | UPDATED: 13:57 23 November 2018
The victim of a stabbing at an Ipswich branch of McDonald's and a friend were seen throwing punches at the teenager accused of the stabbing shortly before the alleged attack, a court heard.
Giving evidence at Ipswich Crown Court Liam Cook, who was in his car in the drive-thru area of the Ravenswood McDonald's, said he saw two men get out of a Vauxhall Corsa and approach another two men in the car park.
He heard shouting and saw the group pushing and shoving each other.
Mr Cook claimed he then saw the two men from the Corsa start throwing punches at the other two men, who he described as defending themselves.
The witness said told the court he then saw one of the men from the Corsa approach one of the other men from behind while his friend approached him from the front.
It was at this stage he saw the man in the middle of what he described as a "pincer movement" jab his clenched fist towards the stomach of one of the men from the Corsa, resulting in him screaming and holding his stomach.
"I could see blood on his hands," said Mr Cook.
Before the court are the 16-year-old victim of the alleged stabbing, who is now 17, who has denied violent disorder and Rishawn Mohammed, 18, of Hurricane Place, Ipswich, who has denied wounding the 16-year-old with intent to cause him grievous bodily harm, violent disorder and having a knife.
A 17-year-old youth, who cannot be named because of his age, has admitted violent disorder and having a knife.
The court has heard that the 16-year-old victim of the stabbing was with a 17-year-old friend in the car park at the Ravenswood McDonald's when Mohammed allegedly pulled out a large red handled kitchen knife with a 12cm blade and "plunged" it into his groin. The injured teenager, who can't be named because of his age, slumped to the ground in between two cars and his friend had produced a knife and chased after Mohammed but couldn't catch him. Following the attack the injured teenager, who was bleeding heavily from a cut to a major artery to his groin, underwent emergency surgery and made a good recovery.
Mr Jackson said had it not been for prompt medical intervention he would "almost certainly" have died.
The trial continues.
If you value what this story gives you, please consider supporting the Ipswich Star. Click the link in the orange box above for details.


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Plz check out my track "FTW!!" and vote if you like the track!! THX for your support!!
Love <3
Manamin Official →dj-manamin.com
Contact & Booking 📩firstname.lastname@example.com
189 followers
Spinnin' Records uses cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website and its services. For more information see our cookies policy.


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I am Ahmad Rizqi Meydiarso (also known as Rizqi Ahmad), a college student living in Hamburg, Germany. Born in Bandung, Indonesia, moved to Hamburg in 2002 due to my father's work. My interests lie mostly in design, programming and electronics. I have 5 years experience of Javascript development, 2 years experience in electronic, especially microcontroller and also some experiences on miscellaneous languages such as python, php, java etc.
I take part in a robotic group in the Technische Universität Hamburg Harburg while working on my private robotic project. I and my school won a special prize in a robotic contest in Hamburg 2007 for programming ASURO to successfully follow path and find the highest altitude by utilitizing accellerometer to measure the tilt. My contributions to ASURO Community are the I2C and LCD Controller Library. My Latest work in robotic field is creating typography library for POB-LCD
Javascript is my favorite scripting language to date. I have passion for creating useful libraries. My first library was ZParse, a configurable template parsing tool that can be used for various projects. Second was Foo Framework (which now obsolete). It was intended to provide very powerful RIA Capability based on templates (ditched due to design flaws). My latest project in 2008 is chain.js (and interaction.js) which provides data binding solution to jQuery.
I am currently attending the Immanuel-Kant-Gymnasium and expecting to be graduated in 2009. My core competency lies on Science and Math. From September 2007 to March 2008 I attended a Math Lecture for Engineers in the TUHH and took the exam with a very satisfying result.


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City of Victor Harbor
The population of the City of Victor Harbor Council area is home to approximately 14,000 residents.
At any given time it is estimated that 2,000 or more additional visitors are residing in our community as tourists or people frequenting their holiday homes. At peak tourist season from December to February the population grows to almost 30,000.
Local natural attractions include Granite Island, Rosetta Head (The Bluff), surf beaches, whale watching and penguin colonies. In addition, there are a number of developed attractions including the Horse Drawn Tram to Granite Island, Greenhills Adventure Park, the South Australian Whale Centre, Encounter Coast Discovery Centre, the Cockle Train, Urimbirra Wildlife Park, Nangawooka Flora Reserve and the Dunes Mini Golf Park


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Preventing Ministry Failure
Michael Todd Wilson$22.00Great ministers don't just happen. Great falls from ministry don't just happen either. A complex mix of factors both internal and external test the limits of your ability to minister wholeheartedly over the long haul. Senior pastor Brad Hoffmann and li... Learn More
Misfits Welcome
Matthew Barnett$24.99
Being a misfit does not disqualify you from a dynamic life it prepares you for it.
Matthew Barnett knows a thing or two about misfits.
As founder of the Dream Center in Los Angeles, a twenty-four-hour church that ministers to thirty-five thous... Learn More
Five Smooth Stones for Pastoral Work
Eugene H. Peterson$21.00Whereas much of the current literature on pastoring stresses up-to-date training and new techniques stemming from the behavioral sciences, Eugene Peterson here calls for returning to an "old" resource--the Bible--as the basis for all of pastoral minist... Learn More
Engaging the Soul of Youth Culture
Walt Mueller$20.99Before we can reach today's youth with the truth of the gospel, we need to see what they see and hear what they hear. We need to catch the messages encrypted in their culture and understand what's really being communicated. InEngaging the Soul of Youth... Learn More


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Join us in the courtyard of the Maypole from 6.30 PM until 9 PM on Wednesday 21st August for a some good food and drink, and a chance to discuss the current political situation, the opportunities and challenges we face, and our campaign plans.
The Maypole Free House has a wide range of drinks and is well known for its choice of English and Italian dishes. The address is 20a Portugal Place, Cambridge CB5 8AF.


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SOOC on a Frosty Morning
I've been struggling with my gratitude post this week. Not because I have nothing to be grateful for, but because I have so many blessings that I can't decide which ones to write about. So I'm doing a free thought writing exercise...from head to fingers to blog.
Early in the week I received marvelous news from a friend that the health scare he had a few weeks ago isn't so scary after all because a broken elbow is much easier to mend than a broken heart. My heart sings for CP and gratitude overflows for both the good news and the friendship we share.
If I had to describe my friend MJ in two words it would be this...loving heart. She is the most generous, loving person I know. I thank my lucky stars that we became friends those many years ago and have stood steadfast by each other.
This morning I took a walk in the yard soaking up the frost, in the air and on the ground. The yard was lovely, leaves clinging to branches reminded me of the gentle Fall of Freddie the Leaf,
and the little rose that's still budding and blooming spoke of the courage to keep on even when the odds are against you. For nature's subtle reminders I am grateful.
Have a lovely day!


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Housing Authority reaches settlement on $6.5M debt
This doesn't entirely resolve the problems that arose in a 2003 financial scandal, but it is a step forward.
Because of financial mismanagement on the part of the authority's former director, the bank recalled an $11 million bond deal in 2003, leaving the authority $6.5 million in debt.
The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development issued a report in December 2003 that criticized the authority for 26 specific financial problems.
As a result, the former board, executive director and many employees left.
The new board is attempting to clear up that problem and set a new course.
The deal will free up $7.7 million in capital funds the authority can now use to fix up its housing.
That work has been neglected since the bond was signed in 2000, because the capital funds were being used as collateral to secure the bond.
Until Wachovia Bank and the authority settled the debt, the authority couldn't touch the money.
"This is a big day for us," said authority chairman Dom Chieffalo. "We hope to pay off the bond before it is due in 2009."
Chieffalo said the bond deal of December 2000 left the authority short of money to fi x up its properties.
Executive Director Carolyn Sistrunk said the authority and HUD identified a list of items in 2004 to fix up with the $7.7 million. Sistrunk said that work will begin this year.
In a related announcement, Chieffalo said the authority will seek bids to renovate and reopen the High Ridge Gardens housing project. Chieffalo said he would like the project to move forward later this year.
He said he would like the 60 former apartments to become condominiums.
"We want to get out to bid and get the plans in place by the summer or fall," Chieffalo said.
The HUD report identified 26 financial problems, and the authority will likely have resolved nine of them by mid-March, and could solve all of the remaining problems by the end of the year, Chieffalo said.
"None of us knew how deep the problems were," Chieffalo said.
Contact Mark Langlois
at firstname.lastname@example.com
or at (203) 731-3337.