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Summerfield Healthcare are pleased to announce that we now offer a weekday, out of hour's private GP service.
The evening GP service has begun following requests from our patients who want to see a doctor when it's convenient for them. This is in addition to our weekend GP Service.
Summerfield healthcare evening GP provide all the services that you are available from your NHS GP as well as some additional services which aren't in a standard NHS practice including:
- Wellperson Clinic
- Pre-employment Medicals
- Work Visa Medical
- Dermatology
- Blood Testing
- Sexual Health
And you will be able to book half an hour appointments if you want more time with the doctor.
Pay as you go GP
Summerfield healthcare offer pay as you go medicine which means that you only pay for what you need. Without additional membership costs or insurance requirements, you can get an as and when service which cannot be matched in Shropshire.
Fast Track Appointments
Whilst the national average to see an NHS GP is 2 weeks, with Summerfield healthcare often even non-emergency appointments are available the same day as you enquire.
Inexpensive Medicine
Prices to see the GP start at £59 for a 15 minute appointment because you want be back at work without taking lengthy time off. Seeing a doctor faster also means getting the prescription you need quickly too.
Summerfield healthcare won't share your with NHS GP that you have had a consultation with us with unless you ask us to.
"I didn't trust the opinion of my GP regarding my daughter's condition so I gave Summerfield Healthcare a call.
Dr Charlesworth-Jones was friendly, better informed and gave me the advice, with prescription, my daughter required to get well quickly."
Book Your Private GP Today
To book a private GP appointment is easy, choose to fill in the contact form, email your enquiry firstname.lastname@example.com or call our reception team on 0333 9000 010. Summerfield Healthcare's medical reception team are specially trained to deal with all enquiries in a professional, prompt & private manner.


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Seeing the hidden files and system files in vista is not much different from windows Xp but Windows Vista has made it a little harder one when you are going to find the Folder Options settings. In the earlier version of the windows you can easily find the Folder Options just browsing through the start menu then Control Panel then Folder Option. But don't be disappointed I am here to teach you how you can easily view the hidden files and folders as well as system files also. Just follow the following carefully:
- First move your cursor towards the left corner of your windows.
- Then click on the round blue start menu.
- Then browse your cursor to Folder options.
- There you will find many options, just click on the View Tab options.
- Next go to the show hidden files and folders.
- And click on it.
- If you make up your mind to see the system files then do unclick on the protected operating system file command.
- Then click on the OK button.
So, how simple is that and if you perform the previous options carefully then your hidden files and folders as well as system files will be successfully visible in front of you. So don't waste your time just try it on your pc.
[Note: Don't perform any unnecessary action with your system files, unless your windows may be corrupted.]

subset: commoncrawl


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This film is part of Free
Indian Durbar
The "rich and vivid spectacle" of the Durbar held for the Maharaja of Alwar is captured in gorgeous Technicolor by Jack Cardiff in this travelogue.
The "rich and vivid spectacle" of the Durbar held for the Maharaja of Alwar (in Rajasthan) is captured in ravishingly beautiful colour in this travelogue. The condescending commentary grates, but the stunning images - capturing the spectacle of the Maharajah's lavish parade (complete with elephant-pulled carriage) the dancers and the succession of tributes in the opulent palace courtyard - more than make up for it. They were shot by Jack Cardiff, world-recognised (and Oscar-winning) master of Technicolor.
Indian Durbar was one of a number of short travelogues shot by Cardiff in India (and many more elsewhere) in the late 1930s and early 1940s. Others include A Road in India and A Village in India. For the Technicolor company, the exoticism of the films' subjects offered a very useful demonstration of their vibrant colour process.


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East Toowoomba renovated low maintenance - For Sale #011210
Price: $649,000
Beds: 4
Bathrooms: 2
Garage/Car Space: 4
99 Curzon Street East Toowoomba, QLD 4350
This recently renovated home in East Toowoomba, now has 4 bedrooms all built in, main bathroom and ensuite, 2 separate living areas, internal fireplace, rear deck with spa, water feature, double enclosed garage with side office/gym, easy to maintain yard, fully fenced. Situated close to schools, restaurants, shopping centre. On the edge of the Vincent's Hospital medical precinct, you can walk to doctors, dentists, and most medical professionals in minutes.
Home Features
Community Features
Location on Map
Contact Details
Call, email or text John to find out more and book an inspection time.
0408360228Property #: 011210
Listed by John Fitzgerald
This listing has been viewed 318 times


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0 Law360: Will Allen Sentenced to Six Years In Prison for Ponzi Scheme
Former NFL defensive back Will Allen was given six years in prison for his role in a Ponzi scheme, a much harsher sentence than courtroom observers expected. Brian Amaral, a reporter for Law360, said Allen got twice the average sentence for fraud. Former banker Susan Daub also got six years, according to Law360. Both pleaded guilty last year. Allen, a cornerback, played 140 NFL games with the New York Giants and Miami Dolphins from 2001-11. He was the Giants' first-round pick in 2001. Allen (not to be confused with fellow former NFL defensive back Will Allen, who played mostly for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Pittsburgh Steelers from 2004-16) was charged with fraud in 2015. In this Ponzi scheme, Allen and Daub convinced investors to fund loans to professional athletes, but the loans were bogus or oversubscribed and they used the money for personal expenses and other business ventures, Law360 said. Amaral said some in the courtroom were stunned at the sentences of six years in prison, and he reported that even the U.S. attorney's office seemed surprised. The scheme cost investors about $17 million, Law360 said. "This was a huge fraud," U.S. District Judge William Young said, according to Law360. If you are the target of a criminal investigation, or have recently been arrested, call Robert Gluck at 1-877-GLUCK-LAW for a free consultation and learn about your criminal rights. You can also see Mr. Gluck's web page at www.robertgluck.com.
Copyright © 2020 Robertgluck.com All Rights Reserved.


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3 in stock
The Grumpy Old Aircraft Mechanics GOAM Logo 5″ Patch
They will be in for shipping in about 2.5 weeks.
Orders usually ship within 1-2 business days by USPS.
GOAM shirts are on Teespringwww.GOAMSHIRTS.comClick here to visit our shirt store
Aircraft Mechanic Shirts, Chemtrail Technician Shirts, DILLIGAF Shirts...


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The Detroit Public Library is hosting a meeting this evening about the future of the Mark Twain Branch on the city's east side. WDET's Rob St. Mary spoke to Karen Nagher of the group Preservation Wayne about the branch building and the meeting.
(click the audio link above to hear the interview)
The Detroit Public Library's meeting about the Mark Twain Branch is scheduled for 6pm evening:
Mark Twain Annex inside the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church 4741 Iroquois Detroit, MI 48214 313-481-1790
For more on Preservation Wayne: http://www.preservationwayne.org/
For more on the Mark Twain Annex: http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/mark_twain/mark_twain_index.htm
For more on the Mark Twain Branch Library check out: http://www.detroitfunk.com/?p=1108


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Kerry M. Bell, PE, Chair of the NFPA Standards Council, presides over the Technical Meeting in Chicago. Mr. Bell is a Principal Engineer and Corporate Fellow at UL.
The following eight NFPA documents will be considered by NFPA members today in Chicago as part of NFPA's Technical Meeting at McCormick Place.
- NFPA 1710, Standard for the Organization and Deployment of Fire Suppression Operations, Emergency Medical Operations, and Special Operations to the Public by Career Fire Departments
- NFPA 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus
- NFPA 1917, Standard for Automotive Ambulances
- NFPA 652, Standard on Fundamentals of Combustible Dust
- NFPA 24, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances
- NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
- NFPA 13R, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Low-Rise Residential Occupancies
- NFPA 72®, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
Download the full agenda for the meeting (PDF), which includes Certified Amending Motions for NFPA standards in the Fall 2014 and Annual 2015 revision cycles that will be considered at the 2015 Technical Meeting in Chicago.
Read full coverage of the NFPA Conference & Expo on our blog.


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sew small things with great love
A set of Swivel Hook Clasp and D Rings for bag making handles straps.
Color : nickel silver
Owner & Founder
Hi and welcome to Chez Vies!
Feel free to browse all categories and if you don't find what you're looking for, you can always contact me.
Don't forget to sign up for updates!
I hope you enjoy your visit & have a wonderful day!


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So, why am I writing about this incident you ask? I am not writing to point out any failure on the part of the parents in disciplining this child. Her mother followed through with what I started with my granddaughter. No, I'm writing this to point out a basic truth about human nature. Children do not think like adults so we cannot expect them to behave like adults. There is a saying: "When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me." For this reason we are to train our children to be responsible and thoughtful adults.
Parenting is more than providing for their needs: food, clothes, shelter and entertainment. It is about their education too. We are their primary teachers in life. They go to school where a teacher has one year to input into their life. As a former teacher I know you can have a big impact upon students over the year. But I also know that next year another teacher can undo all the good that was done the year before. I also know the one who made my job easy or difficult was the mother or father in the home. If they taught their children to respect authority, to honour the adults in their life and to be obedient, then teaching them was a breeze. These children were only reflecting the quality of input they had received at home.
By the end of the school year I would be desperately looking forward to the holidays. I was wrecked and so tired. I had time to recover and return to face the fray once more come September. But as a parent there is no rest. You are centre stage for at least sixteen years. So what does all this labouring bring about as a reward? You get to be amazed at how wonderful your adult children are and how appreciative others are of them. They are the reflection of your good character for the apple does not fall too far from the tree.
Photo courtesy of: Arvind Balaraman / FreeDigitalPhotos.net (Visit website by clicking on photo)


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Raw chocolate
Raw chocolate contains phenylethylamine (the love chemical) and anandamide (the bliss chemical) which have the ability to boost your mood, without adding negative side effects, such as the ones coffee may cause.
If you don't fully enjoy snacking on raw chocolate itself, you can mix raw cacao powder with breakfast oatmeals, or add a healthy dose of cocoa powder to your smoothies and desserts.
Milk is an excellent source of proteins rich in tryptophan, carbohydrates and vitamin D. Low levels or lack of these have been associated with increased depression levels. Milk is also rich in calcium which soothes one's anxiety.
Coconut has become well known for its soothing properties. By both inhaling and/or consuming coconut, you help reduce your blood pressure and anxiety levels.
Oysters have numerous remarkable energy- and mood- boosting ingredients, such as omega-3 fatty acids. They also improve overall blood circulation and increase your energy.
Coffee is practically a magical mood lifting tool; its amazing ability to boost alertness and brain focus make it an elixir of choice by numerous people all over the world. Coffee consumption, in moderation, decreases the risk of depression and Type 2 Diabetes.


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Bobs Worth provided Nicky Henderson with his 50th Festival winner as Barry Geraghty steered the eight-year-old to win the 2013 Cheltenham Gold Cup.
The 11–4 favourite asserted his dominance in the latter stages of the race, despite being hampered, and battled hard to defeat his rivals by seven lengths.
Long Run, a stablemate of Bobs Worth, made the running early on to try and turn the event into a stamina test. However, the champion and runner-up Sir Des Champs were equal to his efforts.
Three fences from home, the Henderson-trained horse was obstructed badly by Silviniaco Conti falling, but Bobs Worth managed to rally back and fought gallantly to take the lead from Sir Des Champs half a furlong from home.
The son of Bob Back then stretched his advantage up the hill and claimed Gold Cup glory with his opponents shattered.
William Hill went 5–1 straight after the race for Bobs Worth to retain his crown in 2014.
Although AP McCoy was defeated on Sir Des Champs in the Gold Cup, he did register two wins on the final day of the Cheltenham Festival for JP McManus.
Alderwood secured the Grand Annual Handicap Hurdle, beating Kid Cassidy by three and a quarter lengths in the last contest of the afternoon, but earlier, At Fishers Cross (pictured right) was an impressive victor of the Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle.
The Nigel Twiston-Davies-trained African Gold pushed the six-year-old close in the final stages, though McCoy was able to utilise his mount's stamina in soft ground and eventually cruised to the finishing line.
Yet, the most striking performance of the day was Our Conor (pictured) in the Triumph Hurdle for rider Bryan Cooper, who scored a double following yesterday's success on Jewson champion Benefficient.
With Rolling Star the subject of a big gamble, focus was turned away from the 4–1 shot, but Dessie Hughes' juvenile produced an outstanding display to win comfortably from Far West and Sametegal.
Cooper was also successful in the County Hurdle aboard Ted Veale.
The Andrew Martin-trained six-year-old stayed on well to defeat fellow Irish raider Tennis Cap by a small margin.
A Cheltenham Festival without a winner for Paul Nicholls is unheard of, so Salubrious taking the Martin Pipe Conditionals Handicap Hurdle was a welcome result.
After the race, Nicholls was understandably emotional and dedicated the victory to the late son of Clifford Baker, Dominic, who tragically died late last week in a car accident.
Photos and report by James Yellen. M: 07889 085535. E: firstname.lastname@example.com
James Yellen is a 22-year-old freelance racing journalist from Newbury, Berkshire.
He is currently in his third year at university studying for a degree in Sports Journalism and will be graduating in July this year.
James has previously written copy for the Racing Post and Press Association, as well as writing numerous articles for Eclipse Magazine.
He tips Champion Court in the Ryanair Chase at 10–1 as his nap bet for the Cheltenham Festival. Follow him on Twitter @JamesYellen.


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This is the most amazing "needle in a haystack" story I have ever heard!
The men who built this haystack have found themselves in serious legal hot water but they do deserve credit for their genius, law-breaking plan.
It is hard to believe, but three men were running an illegal cannabis farm from inside a massive haystack. Reportedly, many of the giant bales used to build the hidden farm were so big that a tractor was required to move them.
One man, Raymond Nichols, plead guilty to the production and cultivation of cannabis with the intent to supply. He is said to be suffering from cancer and was released on bail. The other two men, Martin Young and Ian Locked, were also jailed for their efforts. Young was sentenced to two years and three months and Locke three years and two months.
Take a look at their incredible operation in the photos below.
I wouldn't mind camping or living in a room like this. It looks to be warm and cozy, but this photo is simply the beginning.
Look at all of that equipment. It is like an indoor, hay-bale, artificial green house. Think of how long it must have taken to engineer and construct this monstrosity.
Evidently, the practice of growing marijuana indoors is easier than you may think. Some say it is better, as well?
Howtogrowmarijuana.com reports:
Growing marijuana indoors has many advantages over growing marijuana outdoors. In a grow room you are in control of the environmental conditions from temperature to light to humidity to CO2 levels. You can adjust ambient conditions to suit a particular strain or stage of growth. Plus, your cannabis crop is much safer from theft or discovery by the authorities if you are growing illicitly.
The site goes on to list materials that are needed with specific instructions.
I do not believe that I am going to try it out though!


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Who run the world? Girls! Sure, but when it comes to pop music, there are also some boys who are more than deserving of our undivided attention. If it's not their mesmerizing musical talent that's got you going, then it's the perfect bodies and dashing looks that make your jaw drop, or even both in some cases. The world of pop isn't reserved for girls only, guys have been topping the charts, breaking records and keeping the gender game balanced, and these 10 hottest male pop stars are here to prove that!
10 – Zayn Malik
The offspring of One Direction, Zayn Malik managed to build up quite an impressive solo career in the short period after leaving the band. Massively successful singles and collaborations have launched him to the top of the charts, and he even hooked up with Gigi Hadid who starred in his video for the famous single "Pillow Talk". Zayn's latest collaboration with Taylor Swift is still rocking the charts.
9 – The Weeknd
Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, aka The Weeknd, hasn't been on the scene for a long time, but has already managed to propel himself to the top. It seems like every song he releases becomes an instant hit, so it wasn't all about the unusual hairstyle like some people thought. If a tune has his name on it, you can bet it's going to be big. His unique color of the voice has many people quivering, but he fell in love with just one girl – Selena Gomez.
8 – Calvin Harris
The Scottish hunk, who is also a record producer, DJ, singer and songwriter, Calvin Harris is the mastermind behind many of the biggest pop hits. His frequent collaborations with Rihanna and other pop stars always result with overwhelming reception from fans worldwide. On top of a widely successful music career, Harris is a known model for underwear brands such as Armani, making him one of the hottest pop stars around.
7 – Charlie Puth
Another youngster on our list is Charlie Puth. His career was launched sky-high almost overnight, making him one of the fastest rising singer-songwriter stars in the pop world. With several #1 hits already behind his name, Puth says he feels lucky that people are simply listening to his music. However, surely a few crushes have developed as well considering the fact he's quite easy on the eye.
6 – Justin Bieber
Love him or hate him, Justin Bieber is here to stay. His popularity has been unyielding ever since "Baby" hit the charts back in 2010. He ditched his "cute young boy" approach and embraced the "grown up" style both musically and personally. He is still making girls scream wherever he appears, and the Calvin Klein underwear modeling campaign surely added a few more reasons to scream about.
5 – Nick Jonas
He started off his musical success with the Jonas Brothers, but it wasn't until he decided to go back to his solo career that Nick Jonas truly managed to shine. After a few more sexy collaborations with other popular artists, Nick Jonas pushed his name to stardom. Add a ripped body with chiseled muscles and you got yourself the whole package.
4 – Ed Sheeran
He may not have six pack abs, but he'd be one of the coolest dudes to share a six pack with. Ed Sheeran is the kind of talent that has become extremely rare these days. This singer-songwriter will blow you away with his excellent guitar-playing skills, unmatched creativeness, captivating voice and a charming persona that exudes talent. It's not always a chiseled body that makes you hot!
3 – Adam Levine
The lead singer of Maroon 5, judge/coach of "The Voice", and occasionally and actor even, Adam Levine captivates audiences both with his vocal attributes and his physique. The heart-throb recently received his Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and cemented his popularity. When he's not hypnotizing the audiences with his moves like Jagger, his voice is enough to make you believe everything he sings about.
2 – Bruno Mars
He may be 5'5″ tall but when he performs, he's bigger than giants. Bruno Mars has managed to bring back the funk and introduce a new vision of style to the scene. The Hawaiian singer-songwriter, record producer and choreographer simply exudes style, confidence and sincerity in everything he does. Bruno Mars merges R&B, funk, pop, soul and a lot more, all the while keeping his swagger like no one else.
1 – Justin Timberlake
He has come a long way since the Mickey Mouse club, and through his best and worst phases, Justin Timberlake maintained a loyal fan base that just keeps on growing. The super talented former NSYNC lead vocalist has been slaying the charts for more than a decade. And with all the records broken, we can only presume some hearts were broken as well. Timberlake's irresistible persona, superb musical talent, sweet dance moves and dashing good looks make him the hottest male pop star right now. He is 36 years old and showing no signs of stopping, with many younger contenders around, he still manages to stay on top of the game. Always reinventing himself, adopting new styles and keeping it fresh, Justin Timberlake just seems to be getting better and better with age.


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Contemporary dance troupe Bouge de là's piece The Studio/L'atelier is the perfect way to introduce young audiences to the world of dance. Coming to the Fredericton Playhouse on Sunday, April 6 at 2 p.m., this performance will captivate children and adults alike.
Created by choreographer Hélène Langevin, this show combines dance with visual arts, incorporating movements like Expressionism and Pop Art for a show that's full of fun, innovation and colour.
Onstage is an artist's studio. This space for invention and creativity is full of surprises. It is a place where ideas burst forth, blending together and taking off in all directions. The four dancers treat the studio as a magical treasure chest, playing with everything they find. Paintings spring to life before our eyes, turning into enchanting dance and movement in an ebb and flow that is driven by the whims and imagination of the performers, who joyously plunge into a universe of their own making.
This performance also includes a video component, as some of the dancers' motions are filmed, immediately processed and transformed by means of image capture software, and then projected as a live onstage broadcast. The video provides a different view of what is happening onstage, making it an integral part of the performance, which offers a vibrant mingling of dance, painting and the visual arts.
The Studio is an ode to the creative spirit that lies in each of us, exploring colours, line and movement, and transporting young audiences into an enchanting world that stimulates their senses, inherent performing ability and curiosity.
The Playhouse is also offering an Experience More! workshop immediately after the show on April 6. Families are invited to join the dancers from Bouge de là for an on-stage workshop, a 25-minute physical response to the performers. This event is designed for family involvement, and ticketholders can register by contacting the box office.
Tickets for Bouge de là: The Studio/L'atelier are available through the Playhouse box office 1-866-884-5800, or online at www.theplayhouse.ca.


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Yesterday, we reported the sad news that ABC is ending Once Upon a Time after seven seasons, Now, the cast has responded to the TV series' cancellation on social media.
The fantasy drama saw a major reboot with season seven after several main cast members, including leads Ginnifer Goodwin, Jennifer Morrison, and Josh Dallas, left the show. The cast now includes Lana Parrilla, Robert Carlyle, Colin O'Donoghue, Andrew J. West, Gabrielle Anwar, Dania Ramirez, Alison Fernandez, and Mekia Cox.
On social media, several Once Upon a Time cast members (including long-time stars Lana Parrilla and Colin O'Donoghue) paid tribute to the cancelled ABC TV show. Season seven returns with new episodes on March 2nd.
View this post on Instagram
I'll never forget the day I walked in to audition as Evil Queen Regina for Eddy and Adam. I was wearing all black (of course) and had this crazy, dreadlock looking wrap draped over my shoulders. I had no idea where this pilot was going to go but I knew it was something special. I walked out of the audition room and down the hall was an old photograph of the OG Evil Queen herself. I knew then, something magical was about to begin. It's been 7 years now and I couldn't be prouder of what we all have created. Adam and Eddy had this crazy idea in their minds years ago and it turned into a fantastical phenomenon. This show has touched so many people's lives, changed them for the better, has inspired us to grow in ways we never could've imagined. It's brought hope, joy, friendships and love to so many. I am lucky and blessed to have been a part of it for 7 years. I want to thank the cast, our incredibly, hard working crew and the writers for your dedication and hard work over the years. Thank you to the studio and network for believing in us, supporting us and giving us a home to tell our stories. But most importantly, I want to thank our fans. We honestly wouldn't be here without your love, support and loyalty to ONCE. Thank you for standing by us all of these years. We hope we've made you proud and that the magic this show has brought in to your lives never dies. Thank you for all you've given back to us in return and always remember to keep that magic alive. Signed with love, respect, gratitude and honor, Lana ❤ #OUAT 🙏
View this post on Instagram
Thank you to the fans of Once Upon A Time. You graciously welcomed me into the OUAT family as a new version of a character that you have loved for many years, and for this I am forever grateful. I also love this character, and I'm so excited for you to see where this journey will take him and his family over the final twelve episodes. So happy to have been a part of such an epic and long-lived tale. See ya in a few weeks. #march2nd #onceuponatime
View this post on Instagram
Thank you @adamhorowitzLA and Eddy Kitsis for their incredible talent and imagination. You have the ability to make nonbelievers believers by simply allowing us to enter your mind through your scripts. Thank you for allowing me to come play in your magical kingdom! I will never forget my time on @onceuponatime and I will forever be grateful to you both and @abcnetwork @abccasting for having such an open mind in your diverse casting choices and allowing me the opportunity to be your #latina #cinderella. It is such a joy to bring her to life and I am honored to be a part of such an amazing cast. To all the cast and crew members of season 7, I have loved every moment we have shared on screen and most importantly off. You are all one of the most talented group I have had the pleasure of working with and one of the most fun and genuine group I've spend time with. Finally to the fans, please know that we have the 2nd half of the season to share with you and we look forward to being back on your screens March 2nd! Thank you for your continued support and loyalty to a show that has been yours for 7 seasons. Many thanks to you all for sharing this time with me respectfully. I feel so blessed to have my children, family and friends live this life knowing as a latina woman I got to play a #badass #cinderella for @disney #womenrock @adamhorwitz and #EddyKitsis You have changed my life forever. #happyendingsarereal #theamericandream
I'm hurting,
'OUAT' has been an amazing journey for us all and for our fans worldwide". "Everyone is so proud & appreciative of the hard work and creative talent that Eddy Kitsis, Adam Horowitz and all of the cast and crew has brought to this show. I will truly miss you all.
— Alison Fernandez (@TVAlisonActress) February 6, 2018
View this post on Instagram
Grateful. This is the first word that comes to my mind when I think of #onceuponatime This role of #Zelena came to me at a time in my life when I needed it most. The show came in and scooped me up in its arms and took me on a journey I couldn't have imagined. I have learned so much as an artist but more importantly as a person. You, the fans have embraced me and made me feel loved and seen in a way that has changed me for the better. Zelena taught me how to be me. That no matter your past or your mistakes every day is a new opportunity to get back up, dust yourself off and keep going. Thank you Adam and Eddy for giving me the gift of playing the Wicked Witch. Thank you all for watching and being there all the way. So much love. Today and forever 💚 #mypretties
What do you think? Are you a fan of Once Upon a Time? Do you think season seven is the right time to end it?


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No one can deny how important is the hair in enhancing one's physical appearance! therefore, it is not surprising at all to know how frustrating it is for both men and women to suffer from balding or thinning hair!
So, if you are tired of using those expensive treatments and chemical leached hair products, here is a better, powerful, and most effective natural ways to help your hair grow stronger, thicker, and healthier.
Should you click on Next to continue reading!


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Our aim is to bridge the gap between the guided study of GCSEs and the self-discipline that is necessary to succeed at higher levels. The support and co-operation of tutors and subject teachers ensures that this is a smooth transition.
Students are also encouraged to consider undertaking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), a research-based one year project that involves the preparation of a mini-thesis and a presentation on any chosen topic. We believe that the EPQ provides both a good introduction to university-style academic work as well as the opportunity to differentiate on university or job applications.
A-level & BTEC Results 2019
Students have taken up places this autumn at universities including Leeds (Economics), Loughborough (Economics), CTC Foundation School (Performing Arts), University College London (Philosophy), Kings College London (Mathematics with Management & Finance), Lancaster (Business Management and Business Economics) UEA (Geography & International Development), Sheffield (Electronic Engineering), York (Accounting & Management) and Durham (Business & Management).
BTEC Sport & Exercise Science
50% Of all grades at Distinction* in Sports and Exercise Science Studies
50% of all Business Studies grades at Distinction to Distinction*
Distinction* is the equivalent to A* grade at A-level and recognised by top British universities.
Destinations include Nottingham Trent, St Mary's, Essex and Suffolk Universities.
Read more about our Level 3 results here
The minimum academic standard required for entry into the Sixth Form at St Joseph's is four grade 6 GCSEs for A-level study or five grade 4s for BTEC study, including both English and Maths.
For an overview of our courses please see below under each subject heading. For full details, please consult our Sixth Form Options booklet.
At St Joseph's College we study both the AS and A-level courses in Biology. Each is a one year course and is assessed independently – the AS mark does not contribute towards the A-level mark.
The AS course consists of four modules and two exam papers which develop understanding of the foundations of biology, exchange and transport, biodiversity and practical skills.
The A-level builds on that understanding to discover through two modules in greater depth the subjects of communication, homeostasis and energy, and genetics, evolution and ecosystems.
Biology is an excellent A-level if you wish to pursue a career in medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, nursing, psychology, medical sciences, human biology, biological sciences, sport science, agriculture, horticulture, and forestry, or any associated undergraduate courses.
The Business Studies A-level is a useful complement to other A-levels, particularly Mathematics or Economics, and you should have at least a GCSE grade B in English and Mathematics to consider this course.
It consists of one year each of AS and A-level courses in which you will learn about marketing and people, managing business activities, business decision-making and strategy, and the nature of global business.
It is a useful introduction to key concepts in business finance, in entrepreneurship and how businesses are structured and operate in competitive environments.
The course could lead to a degree in general business management, or specialisation in a discipline such as finance, accounting, marketing or HR. It is common for Business Studies to accompany another subject in a combined degree.
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma Sport Science and Coaching
Equivalent to three A-levels, this course is preparation for a career in the sports industry or for entry to a university degree.
Designed for potential athletes in any discipline, the course provides full-time, tailored training in your chosen sport. This will include access to the gym with a personalised strength and conditioning programme.
In addition to developing your competition potential, the course teaches a wide range of sports theory and science, including anatomy, sports psychology, fitness testing and biomechanics.
After successful completion of the course, you may progress to relevant employment, either as a professional sportsperson, sports coach or fitness instructor, or go on to Higher Education.
Level 3 BTEC Applied Science
This provides a progression for those students who wish to carry on studying Science but for whom A-levels are less appropriate. It may be because you prefer a portfolio type of course, you have studied Applied Science at GCSE, you wish to have a more 'hands-on' approach, or you are considering seeking employment within a laboratory setting straight from school rather than going to university.
The course reflects aspects of employment within professional science organisations such as quality control laboratories, research and development, biotechnology and the pharmaceutical industry. Units include Fundamentals of science; Working in the science industry; Science practical techniques; Perceptions of science; Mathematical calculations for science; Using science in the work place; Physiology of human body systems; Medical physics; Chemical laboratory techniques. Students can opt to take the one A-level or two A-level equivalent course.
It will gain you entry to university for a science-based degree but some courses will demand traditional A-levels (e.g. medicine). Applied Science will combine well with Sports Studies and is ideal for students considering the nursing profession.
Level 3 BTEC Business
This course is designed to offer a more practical approach to the study of business. You can opt to take the one A-level or two A-level equivalent course. It is largely coursework-based but there are some examinations. Units will include; Understanding business resources; The principles of marketing; Communications in business; Business accounting; and Starting a small business.
The assignments are based on business scenarios and students are asked to investigate business activities, going on to analyse the success of the activities and in some instances make recommendations. Links are made throughout the course with real-life business situations.
This qualification is designed to prepare a student for entering a business workplace at the age of 18 or to allow a student to go onto to a degree course in Business at university.
Creative Media
The creative industries are an important growth area in the UK, bringing significant cultural and economic benefits. The Level 3 Cambridge Technical in Media offers a wide range of units to reflect the range of opportunities available within the media sector. It is an ideal foundation for students, providing them with understanding of media through engagement with media products, production processes and technologies. You will understand how to plan an advertising campaign for a product, and how to produce print-based advertisements for this product. You will also present your ideas for a print-based advertisement, having the opportunity to make refinements to it from the feedback you receive. This course will combine well with Business Studies, ICT and English Literature.
The course leads to the application of practical and creative skills that transfer easily into the workplace. Equally, however, you will be well equipped to go on to media-based degree courses at university.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Information Technology
This course is designed for learners who are interested in an introduction to the study of creating IT systems to manage and share information. You will develop a common core of IT knowledge and study areas such as the relationship between hardware and software that form an IT system, managing and processing data to support business, and using IT to communicate and share information.
This course is very practical with plenty of opportunities to implement the theory that you will learn. It is mainly coursework-based, which means that you will have a very clear understanding of your progress throughout the course to help you plan and achieve your next steps. It will combine particularly well with the Creative Media and Business Studies courses.
Students who follow this course progress onto a wide range of courses and careers. These include digital media, information systems, network support, business, accountancy, advertising, TV and film production.
Through AS and A-level courses you will learn foundations of Chemistry, delve further into the periodic table, explore organic and physical chemistry and develop your practical skills.
There are four modules in the AS course and two in the A-level course. Each is assessed through examination, although the A-level includes a practical element which is assessed separately.
Although the coursework is structured, it is advantageous to do some independent research through extra-curricular activities such as science master classes or personal projects.
Chemistry is essential if you are considering a career in medicine, dentistry and physiotherapy and it is useful for nursing, psychology, medical sciences, human biology, biological sciences, sport science, agriculture, horticulture, forestry and associated undergraduate courses. Many of our students go on to study Chemical Engineering having first experienced the wealth of application that a sound knowledge of Chemistry gives.
This course establishes a balance between practical theatre-making and the theoretical understanding of Drama and Theatre. Stimulating and engaging, it encourages you to make connections between dramatic theory and your own practice.
You will study five performance works representing a range of social, historical and cultural contexts. You will also study two influential theatre practitioners (individuals or companies) and produce three performances; one text performance, one devised performance and one performance based on a creative reinterpretation of an extract from a text.
You can follow your own talent or interests in either performance, design or technical aspects of theatre production using the range of facilities available in our performing arts centre. You will produce a final performance and a creative process log both of which are internally assessed and externally moderated.
The course can lead to a place at a dedicated Drama school or a degree course in Drama or Performing Arts at university. The academic aspects of the course make it a valuable qualification towards any degree application for the Humanities. Apart from the entertainments industry, communication and teamwork skills that are developed in Drama are highly valued in people-related careers such as the police, teaching, public relations and social work.
Economics discovers how markets operate, based on the behaviour of companies and consumers. We discuss the strengths and the weaknesses of the market, national and international economies and look at issues such as growth, inflation, unemployment and government policy.
There are many links between economic theories and important news on economic issues and, during the course, we relate much of the syllabus to the news. We also discuss government policies to manage the economy including action to reduce the budget deficit in the United Kingdom. These discussions enable students to make sense of national and international economies.
With its strength of academic content, Economics is an excellent core subject for any student. It forms part of many courses at university, or could open doors to careers in business, the Civil Service, insurance, management and finance.
The two year course of AS and A-levels contains two components, drama and poetry before and after 1900, and comparative and contextual study. A wide range of classic texts from Shakespeare to Bram Stoker explore the scope of literature enabling you to develop your capacity of critical study and expression.
You will learn to read texts in a variety of ways, learning how to respond creatively and critically. You will explore comparisons between texts and different authors and periods, establishing the links and relationships between them, and examining how attitudes and values are expressed through them.
English Literature is a core subject for any further degree study, particularly in the Humanities, primarily due to its development of critical thinking and expression, research discipline and the understanding of how to use quotations and to build and communicate an argument effectively.
A-level Fine Art develops your aesthetic and intellectual capabilities using a range of media and techniques, exploring your talent for self-expression as an artist.
You will produce a coursework portfolio during the course and be assessed on practical work and supporting study. An important component is the personal investigation, which gives you an opportunity to generate and develop ideas, undertake primary and contextual research, experiment with media and processes and to record your observations and reflections.
You will also develop a capacity for critical judgement, learning how to justify ideas and communicate to others your understanding of the context of your work.
Fine Art A-level can lead to further Art and Design courses including degrees and diplomas, or careers in architecture, fashion, advertising, film and TV, graphic design, specialised police professions, specialised insurance, or curation.
The A-level French course develops your GCSE study of the language, concentrating on skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing in French. It also provides further insight into the culture of other countries and encourages you to reflect on various aspects of contemporary society.
The majority of teaching is done in French with a wide range of authentic materials including press and media, literature and film.
An A-level in French can open a wide range of employment prospects and can facilitate foreign travel. As well as being personally rewarding, the qualification is highly regarded by universities and higher education colleges. It can form the basis of a language degree course or is highly compatible with other subjects as part of a modular or joint honours degree.
Geography is an enjoyable subject that enables you to be inspired by your understanding, to engage critically with real world issues and places, and to apply your knowledge, theory and skills to the world around you. It develops independent thinking and understanding of the world's changing peoples, places and environments.
A mix of fieldwork and theory, research and analysis will engage you from the start in a subject that is enjoyable as well as informative. Course content includes water and carbon cycles, landscape systems, global systems and governance, and forces for change.
Geography is particularly compatible with Science, Mathematics, English, History, Economics and Business Studies. Geography qualifications are valuable in that they have wide scale applications; geographers are broad-based, employable people in industry and administration n sectors including environmental science, ecology, surveying, conservation, geology, tourism, landscape, architecture, meteorology, oceanography, town-planning and transport.
A-level history is both the study of broad themes or timeframes, and the in-depth study of specific issues. Study in breadth includes such sweeping subjects as democracy and empire, or the World Wars and their legacies. The in-depth study is of the Cold War from 1945-1991.
In addition to these important subjects – vital background to developing your understanding of the world today – you will also embark upon your own historical investigation. This personal study will develop your research and analysis skills as you discover the birth and early development of the USA.
History A-level provides the skills and intellectual grounding that will open doors to any arts degree or arts-based career, particularly law, journalism, research, public relations, management, teaching, Civil Service, museum and archive work.
As many as half of the Sixth Form choose to study Mathematics. You will have met, at GCSE, many of the topics to be studied at AS and A-level but these will be extended and studied in greater depth. Exciting and powerful new techniques such as calculus are developed in Core Mathematics and applied to the real world through the study of Mechanics, the study of moving and stationary objects, and Statistics, the study of probability and relationships between quantities. Emphasis is placed on applying knowledge to problem solving, both in Mathematics and in other A-level subjects.
If you are considering taking Mathematics at A-level, you will be expected to gain a GCSE grade A or above in the GCSE Mathematics higher tier or equivalent. If you obtain a grade A* you might be encouraged to consider Further Mathematics.
An AS in Mathematics is very valuable as a supporting subject to many courses at Advanced GCE and degree level, especially in Science, Geography, Sociology and medical courses. There are few areas of employment where Mathematics is anything but an important qualification.
Studying Music at A-level demands a combination of skills and techniques, broadening the subject beyond your mastery of an instrument.
You will begin to learn composition to develop your understanding of the process and your ability to express ideas. Composition subjects might include the traditional, such as chorale and counterpoint, or the contemporary – arrangement and remixing.
You will also develop your capacity for appraisal, in which you will analyse important works. You will learn to evaluate music of different styles and must use specific musical vocabulary to assess and reflect upon the work. Your familiarity with all musical traditions will be an advantage here.
The performance aspect of Music A-level is worth 30% of the overall mark and a high standard is expected. You will be required to perform (either playing, singing, or using music technology) for a total time of eight minutes in the exam, with a repertoire of ABRSM Grade 8.
Music A-level is a flexible subject recognising the diversity of musical styles and traditions right up to contemporary music. It can lead on to further study, a career in teaching or performance, in arts administration, retail or journalism.
Photography records, documents and presents examples of everyday life in both ordinary and extraordinary circumstances. Through studying Photography you will learn how to convey personal identity more widely than in other art forms, looking at social, commercial and scientific contexts.
You will develop your own talent for Photography in its purest form, whilst also considering the application and implications of new and emerging technologies that can be used in conjunction with traditional and digital photography materials.
Photography complements other A-level courses and could lead to an Art or Design degree or diploma, or a future in architecture, fashion, specialised police professions, specialised insurance, curation, graphic design, ICT-graphics, forensic science, or journalism.
Studying Physics is an attractive option for the adventurous, offering fascinating challenges and many opportunities to engage in problem-solving both during the course and outside school.
You will begin with foundation study of essential concepts then develop your knowledge through further modular study, including: forces and motion; work, energy and power; materials; electrons, waves and photons; astrophysics; particles; and medial physics.
Physics is a vital subject for further science study and for many careers including engineering, theoretical physics, aeronautics, forensic science, medicine and related areas as well as computing, communications and any subject where solid, mathematical analysis is required, for example in accountancy and banking.
This course is designed to provide opportunities for you to develop your creative, technological and entrepreneurial skills. You will produce high quality products, establish a critical understanding of the influences of products and processes and learn to recognise the social, moral and cultural values inherent in any design and technological activity.
This A-level Product Design qualification offers excellent progression from GCSE Product Design. The course structure comprises four units: Advanced Innovation Challenge; Product Study; Design, Make and Evaluate; and Product Design.
This qualification would lead naturally to a wide range of design courses including product design, industrial design, advertising and fashion, but with its broad consideration of communication methods and the impact of technology on society and the environment, it can complement almost any further study or employment. The knowledge and problem-solving skills developed in this course will also give a huge advantage to those going on to take science and engineering qualifications.
Psychology studies the human mind and behaviour. It is a science with cutting edge research that has direct applications to issues in everyday life. If you are fascinated by the idea of understanding the brain, if you want to grasp the complexities of human behaviour, then Psychology A-level is for you.
To study the subject you should be able to learn and memorise terminology, analyse and evaluate scenarios as well as apply the knowledge gained to various aspects of life. There needs to be a high level of commitment and the willingness to work on an ongoing basis. You must learn to express your knowledge effectively in writing using evidence that can be found in theories or studies in Psychology. The subject requires you to master all relevant theories and studies - the crucial elements in Psychology.
Psychology complements all areas and subjects. Its focus on the human mind, behaviour and thinking is of value in many careers, including law, management and human resources. The subject also instils skills in research, data-handling, analysis, communication and organisation that go well beyond the value of the material covered. It is, of course, relevant to those interested in Psychology at degree level, but also popular amongst students who plan to follow other paths. As a university subject, Psychology is popular and graduates enter a wide range of employment sectors, with only a minority pursuing careers in Psychology.
There can be few better subjects to get a thorough understanding of the world around you. Sociology encompasses so much of life that it is hard to conceive of anything it ignores. Key concepts in the operation of society will be discussed during the course including, the family, education, crime, social class, inequality and diversity.
You will encounter and discuss the many Sociology research methods – themselves often the subject of independent study – as well as analysing in-depth the important themes in sociological research.
Sociology is an excellent course that combines well with any other AS or A-level subject. It is useful for a wide range of university degree courses and is of specific use for careers in teaching, civil service, law, management, police, and social work.
Spanish is a language that opens doors around the world as it is the second most widely spoken language after Chinese. The course, which is mostly taught in Spanish, develops your ability in speaking, listening, reading and writing the language.
In addition to coursework texts you will use native language materials to explore the culture as well as the language, broadening your understanding of society and different contexts of the language.
In the final paper for the A-level you will write an extended essay either in a discursive or an imaginative style, displaying your flair for the language acquired during the course.
An A-level in Spanish can form the basis of a language degree course or is highly compatible with other subjects as part of a modular or joint honours degree course, such as Engineering, Law, Science, Business, Teaching, Journalism, Leisure and Tourism, Art and Design and Media subjects. Having an additional language is highly likely to enhance your earnings capability.


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I like Lawrence Tynes. I do. My friends and I even call him the "other LT". But, when he misses a 21 yarder, there is cause for concern. See, the thing with Tynes is this: He's one of the best clutch kickers, as evidenced by the NFC Championship game, the Dallas game, etc. But he'll miss a chip shot. And that has to concern you. So I put out to you: Should the Giants keep Lawrence Tynes? Should they bring in another kicker for competition? Just for short field goals? What say you?
Should the Giants Keep Lawrence Tynes?
September 29th, 2009 Jeremy Fuchs Posted in Opinions
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6 Responses to "Should the Giants Keep Lawrence Tynes?"
I don't think the Giants should have let Carney go. Tynes is inconsistent at times and I agree another kicker would be a great idea just to balance out things in the kicking game.
kickers run hot and cold
I say keep him, when u have faith and trust in a player that goes a long way. For example our recievers.
Carney did not make the field goals that counted. When were they? Against the damn birds in the playoffs at home.
I love Carney's streak as much as anybody, but you have to make the big kicks in the big games under crucial conditions.
Let's stay with Tynes but this is a bit of a warning sign that won't be forgotten.


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CCTV & Security Project
CCTV Video Access and CCTV Monitoring
A CCTV & Security project we recently completed for a customer comprised of us fitting a Sony lens 4 mega Pixel dome vandal proof camera a fully integrated Videx video panel with touch button code and Paxman fob access. All of this was then neatly secluded in a main operating area with full control enabled via a smart phone and any selected TV inside the home. As you can see from the final photos the picture is clear giving the user and if required the police to clearly see who and at what time the unwanted visitors came to the property. With this fully record-able and recoverable system data can continue to store data without overwriting old information for 80 days, that means your home can be fully secured for almost 3 months without needing to remove any old data. If you would like larger CCTV storage systems concept digital are able to do this for you on request.


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Hi! I'm Jen Sodowsky and I'm excited to be on the Quick Quotes team! This will be my third term on the design team and I'm looking forward to crafting with their amazing products in the upcoming year. I will also be teaching for Quick Quotes at a few scrapbook conventions, so stop in and say "Hi" if you happen to be at one!
I live in Oklahoma with my hubby and three kids who are my inspiration for scrapbooking. So you'll be seeing a lot of my kiddos in the upcoming year!
My first project is a double page layout using the new Fancy Free paperline featured in January's Club Q. I started off by layering a lot of my papers and inking all of the edges with Blue Hawaiian PowderPuff Chalking Ink.
I cut a few banners and used one as my title and the other contains a quote. I tied a ribbon around the top, added a cutout from the kit and popdotted it onto my layout. I then added small dots of paint around the bottom.
One of the papers in the Club Q kit features small squares that I cut out and overlapped. I added another cutout and embellished the cluster with gems.
To finish off the layout, I added Prima flowers and button paperclips!
Items used:
Club Q – Quick Quotes
Blue Hawaiian PowderPuff Chalking Ink – Quick Quotes
Prima Flowers
Bling – Want 2 Scrap
Paper Clip Embellishment – KI Memories (Celebrate Life)
Pen – Stampin Up! (Garden Green)
Pearl Pen – Viva (Light Green)


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Momtrends Must-Haves: Baby Carriers
BEST BABY CARRIER - Best Overall: líllébaby Complete
The name really does say it all. The líllébaby Complete offers the most carrying positions of any baby carrier on the market - without the need to buy additional accessories, extenders or infant inserts! Suitable for newborns up to 4 year olds (45 lbs), the líllébaby Complete allows six different carry options - fetal, face-in, face-on, toddler face in, hip or back. We love the unique patent pending seat design that allows you to adjusts to baby's size and provides ergonomic spread-leg support in every carry position. There are also thoughtful features like a removable lumbar support, a padded chest strap clasp, and optional accessories like teething pads, stirrup straps and cell phone pocket. Choose from the líllébaby Original, Designer, Organic, AirFlow or All-Season version to get all these features without breaking the bank. BUY: Amazon
BEST BABY CARRIER STYLE: Beco Gemini and Soleil
If you cringe at the thought of wearing a baby carrier in a boring solid, then you'll love our top carrier pick for style. The Beco Baby Gemini and Soleil carriers come in an array of gorgeous modern prints and patterns - many of which we gave you a sneak peak of at the recent ABC Kids Expo. Lucky for you, these Beco carriers are more than just a pretty face. Both of these carriers can be used from infancy, offer a front, back and hip carry option, and have the ability to cross the shoulder straps which can make baby wearing more comfortable for many. Choose the Gemini for babies 7-35 lbs. and for the additional face-out position or go with the Soleil for a higher weight limit (up to 45 lbs.), Dual Adjust Shoulder Strap System to make breastfeeding a breeze, and the snap-on zippered clutch. Gemini or Soleil, you'll be sure to be carrying baby in style. BUY:Amazon
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT BABY CARRIER: BityBean
We've all been there - your new little walker desperately wants to do it himself, but you just know he's not going to last for your whole walk to school. BityBean to the rescue! This lightweight, compact baby carrier weighs just 8 ounces (!) and folds up to the size of a child's water bottle, making it super easy to throw into your purse or under the stroller as a carry option. The BityBean offers both a front and a back carry option for children from 3 months up to 40 lbs, and is made out of a lightweight nylon/polyester blend that is machine washable and comes in four fun colors. BUY: Amazon
BEST BABY CARRIER UPDATE : Ergobaby Four-Position 360 Carrier
Ergobaby has long been the standard for providing an ergonomic carry position for babies, but with their latest model, the Ergobaby 360, Ergo has created their best baby carrier yet. The new Ergo offers a fourth, forward-facing position parents had been asking for while still keeping baby's knees, hips and spine in a safe, comfortable position. The 360 has a new structured bucket seat, button adjustments to adjust the seat width, an extendable back panel, and an extra wide Velcro waistband. You'll still enjoy the same padded shoulder straps, included sleeping hood and machine washability you've come to expect from Ergobaby. BUY: Amazon or Nordstrom
BEST AFFORDABLE BABY CARRIER: Infantino Fusion Flexible Position Baby Carrier
A lot of inexpensive carriers leave us wanting more function or comfort, but the Infantino Fusion Flexible Position Carrier offers the perfect balance of features and affordability. Suitable for babies 8-32 lbs., the Fusion allows four carry positions - facing-in narrow or wide seat, facing out, or backpack. The adjustable seat width helps you get the best fit for your baby, and the padded shoulder straps and lumbar belt ensure a comfortable carry for you. We love that this carrier isn't as bulky as some others which keeps you and baby cooler and makes it easier to stash in your diaper bag. The Fusion only comes in this one color, but as we recently reported, grey is one of the hot new trends in baby gear and we love that it is both gender neutral and hides dirt well. Best of all? The Infantino Fusion will cost you under $40! BUY: Amazon or Kohl's
BEST TODDLER CARRIER - Tula Toddler Carrier
True, some other infant carriers have weight limits that allow you to carry your child past 30 lbs., but the Tula Toddler Carrier is designed for carrying toddlers. This carrier has a higher back and wider seat than many other carriers providing the support for a larger, heavier child. With a weight limit up to 50 lbs, we could still comfortably carry our 4 year old around the farmer's market in it! The Tula carrier allows for front or back carrier positions and keeps your child in an ergonomic, comfortable and hip-safe M-position. We also love that the Tula carrier has a convenient Velcro pocket on the padded hip belt, an included hood and extra long straps to allow the carrier to be adjusted to fit a variety of body shapes.BUY: Amazon
BEST BELLS & WHISTLES BACKPACK CARRIER: Kelty Pathfinder 3.0
Backpacking can be challenging enough on its own, but with a baby on your back? If you're buying a backpack because you actually want to head out into the Great Outdoors with your little one, it's worth splurging on the bells-n-whistles Kelty Pathfinder 3.0. Kelty was the first company to introduce backpack-style kid carriers to the market and with their experience in making serious backcountry backpacks, you can be sure that this carrier is designed for comfort.
Pathfinder 3.0 has tons of adjustability - from waist belts and shoulder belts to the suspension system that means you can dial in the perfect fit for whoever is wearing the pack, regardless of shape or size. Parents will also love the lightweight frame, included changing pad and water bottle pocket, hydration-ready pouch, and zip-off daypack. Your little rider will enjoy the included sunhood, padded, adjustable seat height and toy loops. We also are fans of this backpack because of its auto-deploy kickstand (perfect for those snack breaks), under-seat storage and removable, washable drool-pad because as exciting as nature can be. BUY:Amazon or Zappos
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACK CARRIER: Kelty Mijo
Walks around the block. Trips to the farmer's market. Trying to make dinner without a little one crawling up your leg. There are lots of great times to use a backpack carrier. But these are times you don't need a heavy-duty backpack that could let you scale a mountain and pack enough food to survive for three days. You need something compact, lightweight and simple. You need the Kelty Mijo. Soft-sided back carriers can be a great option, but for kids who like a higher perch to really look around, the Kelty Mijo provides an adjustable height seat, 5-pt harness, and a 30 lbs weight limit all in a lightweight 3 lbs. 9 oz frame. No bells and whistles here, but the Mijo does still come with a small storage pocket and an auto-deploy kickstand. Everything you need, nothing you don't. BUY: Amazon
BEST LUXURY BABY WRAP: Poe Woven
Love buying local? Then meet Poe Woven. We adore these gorgeous American-made woven wraps by Poe Wovens. The dense-weave wraps are easy to tie, comfortable to wear, soft for baby, and come in an array of simple, timeless patterns. The prints are inspired by everything from the rolling hills of Vermont to the city lights of Paris to the fields of Provence, creating wraps that compliment, not compete with your wardrobe. Poe Woven uses a variety of yarns for their wraps including cotton, linen, hemp, merino wool, and alpaca hair, and sources everything from the material to the labor in the USA. Whichever wrap you choose, your Poe Woven will be comfortable and beautiful way to carry baby. BUY: Poe Woven
BEST AFFORDABLE BABY WRAP: Boba Wrap
Wraps are one of our favorites ways for keeping baby close, and the Boba Wrap makes babywearing cute and affordable. The Boba wrap is designed for use with infants up to 35 lbs and comes in a handful of simple solids and patterns. We love the super soft material, variety of holds, and the ability to customize the fit without adjusting a bunch of buckles and straps. Perfect for moms and dads alike, the Boba Wrap costs $37-$45 depending on the style. BUY: Amazon or Target
BEST LUXURY SLING: Sakura Bloom
We'll admit - these luxury slings are not for everyone, but if you thrive on turning heads, you'll love the gorgeous fabrics and vibrant colors of the Sakura Bloom ring slings. We dare you to try to pick a favorite. From beautiful linen chambrays to stunning shimmery silks, these slings are not meant to blend in. More than just a fashion statement, these sling also hold your baby securely, are easy to use, and leave you draped in beautiful, eye-catching fabric. BUY: Sakura Bloom or Amazon
BEST NEW BABY CARRIERS: Baby Bjorn Baby Carrier We (soft-sided) & Tula Wovens (wrap)
New carriers are launching all the time, but these are two new ones that have especially caught our eye.
Bjorn Baby We - Bjorn is one of the elders of the baby carrier market and their latest release shows how they are continuing to create carriers that meet the needs of modern parents. The new Bjorn Baby We baby carrier has three carry position, is easy to adjust to find your perfect fit, and our favorite feature, allows you to move your child from a front carry position to a back carry position without removing baby or taking the carrier off. Brilliant. Check out our video review of the Bjorn We here. BUY: Amazon
Tula Wovens - We were already big fans of of Tula's toddler carriers when we got our hands on their brand-new woven wraps. These 100% cotton wraps are soft, medium weight and come in a collection of fun beachy, tribal prints. A gorgeous new way to carry your baby on your front, hip or back. BUY: Tula
Ready to win? One lucky winner will be entered to win our Must-Have Best Overall Baby Carrier – a beautiful líllébaby All-Season Complete – in the color of your choice. Choose between Black, Summer Sand or Stone.
Click here to enter. Full Disclosure: Winner must be 18 years or older and a US Resident. No purchase necessary. Winners will be notified via email with the specifics on how to claim their prize. Contest ends October 20th at 11:59PM EST. Winners will be picked by random.org. By entering this contest, you will automatically be signing up for the Momtrends newsletter.
For more Momtrends Must-Haves Click the links below:


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NEW DELHI, Jan 31 (Bernama) -- Tourism Malaysia (TM) will take advantage of the Indian government's move to simplify the travel (passport) process for its nationals by intensifying the agency's promotion in India's Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
Its International Promotion Division senior director Datuk Musa Yusof said other than Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and New Delhi, TM had already identified other cities to promote Malaysia as a family leisure and shopping destination.
"These cities have potential as the next growth areas, where Indians can receive their passports within a week, compared to one to two months previously.
"Furthermore, India has been showing good GDP growth of seven to 7.5 per cent for the past few years with people here enjoying better purchasing power and traveling opportunities," he said.
He said other than traditional destinations in Peninsula Malaysia, TM would also step up efforts to promote tourist destinations in Sabah and Sarawak.
Speaking to Bernama in conjunction with the South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE) travel fair here at the Indian capital, he said about 770,100 Indians visited Malaysia in 2014 and 650,989 in 2013.
Malaysia earned RM2.2 billion and RM1.9 billion respectively from the arrivals, which was a growth of 18.3 per cent.
Only 539,820 arrivals were recorded between January and September 2015, a decrease of four per cent compared to the same period in 2014.
Musa attributed the drop to two incidents involving MH370 and MH17, as well as the world economic slowdown.
"However, India is still among the top 10 tourist generating markets for Malaysia and TM is working closely with local tour operators and regional airlines to bring in more visitors from this sub-continent (India, Bagladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Maldives)," he added.
He said Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia and Malindo provide a total of 172 flights weekly to Malaysia.
Meanwhile, a member of TM's Board of Directors, Datuk Daljit Singh Dalliwal who headed the Malaysian delegation to the 23th edition of SATTE, said 63 million Indians hold valid passports and are therefore considered potential tourists to Malaysia.
"Even though our budget has been slashed by one third compared to last year by the ministry, we already restrategised ourselves with minimum funding with better tourist arrivals," he added.
Malaysia Truly Asia X Cuti-Cuti Malaysia. Visit Malaysia Year 2020 + Visit Johor Year 2020 + Visit Sepang Year 2020 + Experience Penang Year 2020 + Visit Kelantan Year 2020 + Malaysia Year Of Healthcare Travel 2020. compiled and managed by Farsa.
Sunday, 31 January 2016
How will you book your next holiday: online or through a travel agency?
Datuk Seri Dr Victor Wee – Malaysia's former Tourism Ministry secretary-general and the man who played an instrumental role in setting up the Cabinet committee on tourism and Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) One Stop Centre – is back to doing what he knows and loves best: tourism and culture.
The avid photographer, whose eyes light up when he speaks of his favourite destination, the Tibetan Plateau, is now a professor at Taylor's University. He joined the university's School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts last year, after serving as Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board chairman.
Having run the successful Visit Malaysia 2007 campaign, he led the Tourism Laboratory under the Economic Transformation Programme to formulate the 2010-2020 tourism industry roadmap and is now taking young Malaysians "beyond the books" by sharing his years of experience.
The former Finance Ministry advisor, Economic Planning Unit senior director, and National Economic Action Council deputy head talks to Sunday Star about the boom in digital tourism and explains why travel agencies must venture beyond the traditional brick and mortar set-ups to survive.
>What is digital tourism?
It's using ICT to transact tourism business, sell and buy travel services, search for travel information, visualise travel destinations, get traveller feedback, and share travel experiences over the Web. The digital platform and IT are perfect tools for servicing travellers and doing business in the tourism industry.
>Do travellers really go online for travel inspiration and research, or is digital tourism just a trending buzzword?
The Internet has become one of the most important platforms for travel-related services and to share information with customers. A 2013 (Ipsos MediaCT/Google) survey of 5,000 travellers found that 61% of travellers researched an upcoming trip; 68% use the web for travel research and planning and seek value by engaging in comparison shopping; 70% share their experiences on social media while on vacation; 46% researched a destination, flight, hotel or vacation as a result of seeing an online ad, and read reviews from other travellers; 35% requested more information related to an upcoming trip and watched a travel video; and 31% looked at travel content or reviews by friends and family.
>How has technology changed the face of tourism?
The evolution in the travel industry challenges traditional retail travel agencies. Since the 1960s, travel agencies have used global distribution systems like Amadeus, Galileo and Worldspan to access real-time reservation and booking information. During this era, hotels, airlines and other hospitality product suppliers depended on travel agencies and paid them a commission for each reservation.
This began changing from 1993 onwards. There was tremendous development in online travel.
Suppliers became more independent and gradually decreased their dependence on travel agencies. They started investing in brand websites and booking engines to offer cost-effective tools for direct marketing to travellers. This led to the "dis-intermediary" process.
At the same time, Web technologies enabled Internet users to automate searches through search engines. The entire content of web pages, not just titles and URLs, could be indexed, which lead to the intermediating role and search services of Google in 1998. This led to the "re-intermediary process" when portals began to emerge to perform the role of traditional retail travel agents. These online travel agents (OTA) provide consumers with Web access to the central reservation systems of hotels, airlines, car rentals and suppliers of other travel-related products and services.
OTAs like Travelocity and Orbitz let consumers check availability of accommodation, do price comparisons and allow the use of various payment modes. OTAs provide one-stop convenience, empowering travellers to find the best value for their travel needs. Some OTAs even specialise in last-minute reservations with the purpose of selling airline seats and hotel rooms at heavily discounted prices.
Then, technology became even more sophisticated, with innovative online business formats like Priceline.com which collects demand from consumers and communicates it to suppliers. In 2000, "cybermediaries" came along. These third parties – like Skyscanner and FareCompare – charge a fee for negotiating or conducting transactions over the Internet.
As travellers became more confident about buying directly from suppliers, they were exposed to a wide range of travel information, including real-time reservation and booking information. The Internet lets them compare prices and buy tourism packages so they can do their own planning and purchase travel packages without going through a travel agency.
The Internet and social media allow the visualisation of travel products and services through video clips and graphical images. Travel community sites like TripAdvisor and Facebook have shifted the traditional one way supplier-to-consumer communication to an open consumer-to-consumer communication.
>Does all this mean that Malaysian travel operators are in trouble?
Traditionally, travel agencies create value by facilitating the sale and delivery of tourism services from suppliers to consumers. Since all these online tools allow travellers to directly access products and services, commissions paid to travel agencies are shrinking, and travel agencies are being by-passed with bookings made directly with the service provider.
The role of travel agencies as middlemen seems redundant, raising questions about their future. They have to give travellers more than what the Internet offers otherwise why would anyone bother with the agents? The challenge is for traditional travel agencies to re-invent themselves. Those able to do so are prospering, while those that haven't are barely surviving or have left the industry.
The Internet has the potential to serve as a new communication and distribution channel for servicing travellers as well as the suppliers of travel services and products. For travel agencies that are Internet savvy, this channel enables tourism businesses to improve their competitiveness and performance. But ICT for the tourism business requires huge investments.
>How can travel agents take advantage of technology?
Travel agencies must meet the changing customer. ICT and the Internet must become part of an integrated, customer-centric marketing plan that includes online and traditional marketing tools.
The industry players need an active social media presence to build brand awareness, influence consideration, drive sales or grow loyalty. Social media is an excellent channel for real-time feedback.
Traditional retail agencies must familiarise themselves with online marketing. Pay attention to content posted on sites like TripAdvisor as more travellers are relying on them.
For travel agencies to be relevant in the age of digital tourism, they have to improve their knowledge, increase professionalism and specialise, so that they can give advice that's in the traveller's best interest. The digital age travel agent must not only sieve through Internet reviews and packages, but they must have firsthand knowledge of what they're promoting.
So agents that offer high quality professional service, placing the traveller's satisfaction – not a commission – as a priority, will prosper.
>Are there any Malaysian digital channels that have impressed you?
AirAsia's flight ticket sales and promotions get high hits. Online purchase is the main way of buying a ticket from AirAsia. It was the first local airline to popularise online bookings, forcing Malaysians to overcome their apprehension and learn how to buy flights on the Internet.
Also, the award-winning Tourism Malaysia website doesn't just provide tourist information on places of interest and events, it also has a trip planner and allows online bookings. Other national tourism organisations are trying to do the same.
>Any tips for the digital-savvy traveller?
Everyone does everything online these days. There are many online travel sites claiming to provide the best deals but how can you be sure?
Even if you've done your homework, booking a trip that meets, or exceeds your expectations, can be stressful, daunting and time-consuming.
There is so much information coming in from all directions. Travellers are faced with a wide range of choices which complicates the decision-making process. What to buy? It's a guessing game because not every detail appears online.
Online reviews are merely the views of individuals and pictures can sometimes be misleading. Experienced travel agents keep up with developments about resorts and tours. They know what the service and facilities are really like because they've experienced it. They can advice on and recommend the option that best suits you because they know the pros and cons of the hotels and the suitability of the area.
For instance: You select a hotel but you may not realise that it's located next to a noisy club or is very far from the places you want to visit. Travel agents not only arrange the various modes of transportation, but may also save you money with early booking discounts, special fares, hotel deals and travel advisories.
Take cruises for example – an experienced tour agent can probably negotiate freebies and upgrades for group bookings. So there are more benefits when booking with an experienced travel professional versus a faceless computer.
>But isn't it still cheaper to do away with travel agents?
This is a myth. Talking to agents is free. Travel vendors pay a commission when agents book a trip at no cost to the traveller. You may think you're getting a better deal by booking online but travel agents offer experienced, personalised service. If you wake up late and miss a flight, who's going to help you make last-minute adjustments to your travel itinerary if you book online?
>NGOs have pointed to the growth of sex tourism as the world gets smaller in the digital age, warning that Malaysia could be a sex tourism destination with perpetrators grooming their victims online before swooping in. Are you concerned?
Malaysia isn't the only country at risk. The Internet is borderless. Any country can be targeted by perpetrators. Paedophiles can be traced from footprints left in the search engines. There must be education, awareness and child protection programmes.
-thestar online.
Perak Wants Charter Flights To Draw Tourists From China
KAMPAR, Jan 30 (Bernama) -- The Perak state government wants to introduce special charter flights from China to draw more tourists from the republic.
State Tourism, Arts, Culture, Multimedia and Communications Committee chairman Datuk Nolee Ashilin Mohammed Radzi said the move could attract more tourists from China especially in the light of Visit Perak Year 2017.
She was commenting on visa exemption for tourists from China as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak when presenting the recalibrated Budget 2016 in Putrajaya on Thursday.
She was speaking to reporters after handing over ownership grants for a village structured settlement scheme at Tanjung Bangkong, Malim Nawar here Saturday.
Najib, who is also Finance Minister, when announcing the recalibration of the 2016 budget, said tourists from China need not obtain a visa to visit Malaysia from March 1 to Dec 31, 2016.
Meanwhile, in KUALA TERENGGANU, the visa exemption was seen as a boon to the tourism industry and economy in the state.
State Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jidin Shafee said, in line with the announcement too, the state government was now planning to introduce numerous facilities, including increasing return flights, to lure more tourists from China.
"Other than increasing the entry of China's tourists, bilateral trade will continue to go up and exchange of technology will continue to expand," he said when contacted by Bernama, here, today.
In SANDAKAN, Sandakan Tourism Association chairman Johnny Lim said visa exemption for China nationals to Malaysia would boost their presence in Sabah, which was currently negligible in the district.
In this regard, he hoped the move to get direct flights to Sabah from destinations in China could be realised.
In the meantime, Kinabatangan-Corridor of Life Tourism Operators Association chairman Alexander Yee said the association would identify the specific conditions for visits not exceeding 15 days to brief members before the move was enforced in March.
State Tourism, Arts, Culture, Multimedia and Communications Committee chairman Datuk Nolee Ashilin Mohammed Radzi said the move could attract more tourists from China especially in the light of Visit Perak Year 2017.
She was commenting on visa exemption for tourists from China as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak when presenting the recalibrated Budget 2016 in Putrajaya on Thursday.
She was speaking to reporters after handing over ownership grants for a village structured settlement scheme at Tanjung Bangkong, Malim Nawar here Saturday.
Najib, who is also Finance Minister, when announcing the recalibration of the 2016 budget, said tourists from China need not obtain a visa to visit Malaysia from March 1 to Dec 31, 2016.
Meanwhile, in KUALA TERENGGANU, the visa exemption was seen as a boon to the tourism industry and economy in the state.
State Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jidin Shafee said, in line with the announcement too, the state government was now planning to introduce numerous facilities, including increasing return flights, to lure more tourists from China.
"Other than increasing the entry of China's tourists, bilateral trade will continue to go up and exchange of technology will continue to expand," he said when contacted by Bernama, here, today.
In SANDAKAN, Sandakan Tourism Association chairman Johnny Lim said visa exemption for China nationals to Malaysia would boost their presence in Sabah, which was currently negligible in the district.
In this regard, he hoped the move to get direct flights to Sabah from destinations in China could be realised.
In the meantime, Kinabatangan-Corridor of Life Tourism Operators Association chairman Alexander Yee said the association would identify the specific conditions for visits not exceeding 15 days to brief members before the move was enforced in March.
Saturday, 30 January 2016
PLUS Gears Up For Lunar New Year Traffic Increase
PLUS Malaysia Berhad (PLUS) anticipates 1.6 million vehicles will use the North-South Expressway (NSE) everyday on Peak Days throughout the Chinese New Year holidays, a 20 percent increase from 1.3 million traffic on normal days.
"As such, PLUS will implement various strategies to cope with the traffic increase and at the same time, help the public enjoy smoother journey during the holidays," said PLUS Managing Director, Dato' Noorizah Hj Abd Hamid.
TTA for Peak Days
As implemented during previous festive seasons, PLUS is issuing a Travel Time Advisory schedule (TTA) for Peak Days travel on the NSE between 5 February and 14 February.
The TTA focuses on traffic distribution and is aimed at reducing traffic congestion on the mainline, most notably at major stretches, toll plazas and rest areas. The schedule is based on studies on the public travel pattern during previous festive seasons.
"As such, we advise the public planning to travel on the NSE on these Peak Days to follow the TTA. Based on our studies, higher adoption rate of the TTA by the public for outbound and inbound journey had resulted in smoother traffic flow on the mainline," Noorizah said.
Improving Highway Level of Service
PLUS will also implement various strategies to improve its overall highway operations and level of service during the upcoming festive season.
"Among the initiatives are deploying more staff on the highways and the traffic monitoring centre (TMC), increasing the number of PLUSRonda teams and patrolling loops, stationing emergency rescue teams at strategic locations, providing additional parking areas and portable toilets at major rest areas, providing additional tow trucks at selected locations, deploying more than 3,200 staff at toll plazas, conducting aerial traffic surveillance and many more," Noorizah explained.
In addition, "PLUS will open up contra flow at selected stretches on the mainline. However, the contra flow can only be activated based on the current traffic situation and approval from the Police", Noorizah added.
Up to 30 Percent Toll Rebate
"As part of an effort to distribute the traffic, PLUS will be offering 30 percent toll rebates on 4, 11 and 15 February," Noorizah elaborated.
A 30 percent toll rebate will be given to Class 1 highway users paying toll electronically (via PLUSMiles, Touch 'n Go cards or SmartTAGs) on 4, 11 and 15 February. The rebate is given to those travelling more than 100 kilometres on the NSE, ELITE and NKVE highway.
For example, a highway user travelling between Jalan Duta Toll Plaza and Ipoh Selatan Toll Plaza will be able to save RM7.95 in a form toll reload as follows:-
Entry Toll Plaza
Exit Toll Plaza
Toll Charges
Savings Through 30%
Eligible Toll Rebate
Jalan Duta
Ipoh Selatan
Sungai Besi
Jalan Duta
Ipoh Utara
Ayer Keroh
The toll rebate can be redeemed at all Customer Service Centres on the PLUS highways between 15 March and 14 June this year.
Highway Traffic Updates
PLUS also advises the public to get the latest traffic updates on the NSE through the PLUSTrafik Twitter service, the PLUS Mobile Apps, the toll free PLUSLine 1800 88 0000, major radio stations and electronic message boards at strategic locations along the highways.
Noorizah was quoted at a media briefing on the PLUS preparations in coping with the traffic increase on festive season at the Persada PLUSÂ on 28 January. Also present was PLUS Chief Operating Officer, Mohammad Fuad Khusairi.
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Deep neural networks are powerful black box predictors that have recently achieved impressive performance on a wide spectrum of tasks. Quantifying predictive uncertainty in neural networks is a challenging and yet unsolved problem. Bayesian neural networks, which learn a distribution over weights, are currently the state-of-the-art for estimating predictive uncertainty; however these require significant modifications to the training procedure and are computationally expensive compared to standard (non-Bayesian) neural networks. We propose an alternative to Bayesian neural networks, that is simple to implement, readily parallelisable and yields high quality predictive uncertainty estimates. Through a series of experiments on classification and regression benchmarks, we demonstrate that our method produces well-calibrated uncertainty estimates which are as good or better than approximate Bayesian neural networks. To assess robustness to dataset shift, we evaluate the predictive uncertainty on test examples from known and unknown distributions, and show that our method is able to express higher uncertainty on unseen data. We demonstrate the scalability of our method by evaluating predictive uncertainty estimates on ImageNet.
Author Information
Balaji Lakshminarayanan (Google Deepmind)
Alexander Pritzel (Google Deepmind)
Charles Blundell (DeepMind)
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The parliamentary banking standards commission's recent report reflects the same stinging criticisms as the first of 2013's horrific depictions of boardroom failure and inadequacy – the Francis report on the scandal at Mid Staff NHS foundation trust .
Together these two damning reports defy anyone to generalise about the superiority of the public or private sector when it comes to "corporate governance". Together they prove that the reams written about boardroom performance may not have got us very far.
At Mid Staffs, Francis describes a board out of its depth, its directors incurious and unknowing about what was and wasn't happening in the hospital's wards and clinics. The banking commission, chaired by Tory MP Andrew Tyrie, ridicules the "self delusion" of HBOS directors: they were preoccupied with process and ignorant of what the bank executives, themselves amateurs, were up to.
Together these reports tell us huge amounts about dysfunction. No one should get a senior board appointment in the public or private (or third) sector without having read them. Yet their lessons aren't exactly new. Codes of conduct abound. After umpteen examples of corporate failure, we're no nearer understanding the relationship of organisational performance to boardroom shenanigans.
There's an odd absence of evidence on corporate governance, and certainly nothing exists akin to a formula for adding skills, attitudes and experience together on a board, from which high performance can be extracted.
Perhaps corporate governance has been inflated out of proportion. Perhaps we stop spending time peering into boardrooms. Francis said "the demands for corporate governance are understandable. But it is not the system itself that will ensure the patient is put first." Look at the private sector and the way boards simply will not tackle excess payment for executives and perpetuate a bonus culture that amounts to approved theft.
Corporate governance has been made more complex – perhaps even diminished – by the growth of regulation. To say the buck stops with the board is often wrong. In the NHS, amid what Francis called "the plethora of organisations with commissioning and performance management responsibilities", boards now answer upwards to Monitor and the Care Quality Commission and sideways to elected governors and across to commissioners.
Of course, clinical commissioning groups themselves also have corporate governance and non-executive directors, as do the regulatory bodies. So what's the relationship of a non-executive on one to that on another?
In the private sector, at least in finance, some people have tried to defend the directors of HBOS by saying that they weren't really responsible (their fat honoraria and bankers' bonuses aside): blame attaches to the Financial Services Authority, which should have stopped them behaving irresponsibly. This is a neat argument, allowing attention to be shifted to the performance of a government body, allowing some commentators to claim the financial crisis was all the state's fault.
From past studies, we can list general attributes that the board of a high-performing organisations is likely to have. At Mid Staffs, Francis found "a culture of secrecy in which the trust board shut itself off from what was happening in its hospital." Information, in other words, is vital but there will always be asymmetries of knowledge between directors and staff; relying, say, on auditors to bridge the gap doesn't work.
We also know weak governance can accompany high performance and vice versa – one of the HBOS non-executives called it the best board he'd ever been on, just as it steered the company to disaster.
At a recent seminar Gillian Fawcett, head of public sector at the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, cited studies showing NHS trusts with problems tended to have boards lacking in skills and unclear lines of accountability. But which is the chicken and which the egg; do better performers grow better boards or vice versa?
Fawcett says it may be time for some subversive thinking: "Are we expecting too much of governance rules? Most shareholders are not interested in the internal affairs of companies, and the same goes for the electorate in respect of the public sector.
"Should we as a society just concentrate on regulating those issues which are of clear public interest, and leave trusts and companies to sort out their own internal arrangements?" she asks.
David Walker is contributing editor to the Public Leaders Network
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