text:
FIU program rewrites the rulebook for ADHD
To Laura Collins, ADHD was like an invisible force that controlled her daughter.
As a toddler, Lassha Pafford couldn't sit still. She ran so fast and her coordination was so poor that she ran into walls. In elementary school, her grades were low, even though an evaluation confirmed a high intelligence. She sometimes got into fights at school and frequently had meltdowns. Finally, Collins' desperation peaked when Lassha became so agitated that she sat in a corner screaming, begging her parents to help her stop.
At the same time, Collins and her husband, Thomas Pafford, were adjusting to a move to Miami from Durham, N.C., and raising their two other children. Lassha, now 9, Liam, 10, and Kieran, 6, are all adopted. She recalls asking one medical professional, "How do people survive this?"
Less than a year later, Lassha, a third-grader at David Fairchild Elementary, is on the honor roll, and her behavior has improved significantly.
"She's been on honor roll all year. She's been on behavior honor roll all year," Collins said. "That's never, ever, ever happened before. Now it's like old hat."
What happened? Collins says the difference was her family's participation last year in the Summer Treatment Program (STP) at Florida International University's Center for Children and Families. An intensive eight-week, all-day program, STP is available to a range of children from pre-schoolers (ages 4 to 6) to adolescents entering high school in the fall. The summer program also is treating children with autism and Asperger's syndrome ages 2 to 6. Most children in the program participate in ADHD research.
Through the summer program, Lassha was part of the first year of a five-year study funded by a $3.75 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The goal is to determine whether children with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) ages 5 to 12 who are taking stimulant medications, including Concerta and Adderall, will develop tolerance over a short time during the summer. The study, which will monitor 250 children over four consecutive years, is also attempting to determine whether taking weekend breaks from the medication will allow the drugs to keep working over time.
The program has completed the recruitment process for students for the summer program, the second year of the study, which will begin Monday. The third edition of the study will begin next year. Cost is determined on a sliding scale — for eight weeks, $800 to $4,600, depending on household income. Scholarships are available.
Lassha's doctor, Dr. Jeffrey Brosco, professor of pediatrics at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and associate director of UM's Mailman Center for Child Development, referred her to the program. Collins admits her expectations were low, as she had tried many strategies after Lasha was diagnosed with ADHD.
While the strategies helped somewhat, Collins said none gave the family and Lassha the tools to manage the disorder. Collins tried occupational and physical therapy, joint compression massage and brushing her arms and legs with a soft brush. She removed artificial food coloring and most processed foods from Lassha's diet. After Brosco prescribed a low dose of medication, she saw great improvement, but tantrums and other behavioral problems persisted.
Brosco, whose department deals with complex behavioral cases, says he continues to send patients to the program because the approach is backed by solid research, and it works for most families.
"The FIU program is a nationally and internationally recognized group of researchers and clinicians and a valuable resource to our community," Brosco said. "For the families who are able to get into the program, it's a really wonderful option."
Its unassuming director, William E. Pelham, Jr., Ph.D., who is the chair of the department of psychology, is a national figure in the field, along with Jim Swanson, professor emeritus at the University of California Irvine, who came to FIU as a part-time professor of psychiatry in 2010, specifically to work on research with Pelham. They have together and individually contributed to advancements in the study and treatment of ADHD over the past 30 years, including developing the popular ADHD drug Concerta.
Pelham, who had been running an ADHD program and summer camp at State University of New York (SUNY) in Buffalo for 14 years, was recruited by FIU in 2009 to establish the center. He moved the program to FIU in 2010. With a staff of 35, the center holds about $38 million in federal research grants and works with nearly 1,000 families per year.
It was Pelham, Swanson points out, who first developed the treatment program in 1980 as a professor at Florida State University. Recognized as one of the best, it has been duplicated across the country, including at the University of California Irvine, and in Japan.
"I was so impressed that I asked Bill to help me implement a similar program at UC Irvine, and he spent a mini-sabbatical to help me ," Swanson said.
The tolerance study addresses a core question: Is the medication working? Pelham said he suspects tolerance could be developing quickly, because during a previous landmark NIH study "we had to increase the dose to have the same effect over the course of the school year." While the child's growth and weight are also factors, so is the issue of tolerance, he said.
"And the question for the school year is are the children who are on the five-day-a-week regimen, do they end up on lower doses of medication? Because if that disrupted tolerance they shouldn't need as many dose adjustments."
"Simple idea, and a simple study," Pelham said, "but it could have enormous implications."
For parents whose children are part of the study, such close monitoring by professionals provides a wealth of information about their children's performance with medication and without, in addition to training children to regulate their behavior and training parents on how to best handle their children.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 11 percent of children ages 4-17, some 6.4 million, have been diagnosed with ADHD as of 2011. Rates were far higher for boys at 13.2 percent, compared with 5.6 percent for girls. According to survey estimates for 2011-2012, 7 to 9 percent of Florida children have an ADHD diagnosis.
"The research is pretty clear that children who have ADHD and do not receive proper treatment overall do much worse. They are children who are much more likely to drop out of school, be involved in the criminal justice system, become pregnant or have children before they're ready, get in car crashes and abuse substances," he said. "One of the most important things we can do for our society is treat this condition."
Pelham agrees but is concerned that the most effective treatment may not be understood by parents or is not available to them.
"The biggest problem with behavioral treatment is that it costs a lot of money," he said. "The biggest problem with medication is the dose, because of side effects, tolerance and disruption of growth."
His program combines medication and behavior modification, plus parent training, which his research has found to be far more effective than either medication alone or behavior modification alone. The program teaches parents to work with their children at home, while helping teachers develop a school environment that allows the child to learn and behave better. Clinicians work with teachers to develop a daily report card, which motivates and rewards good behavior and addresses issues that may cause poor behavior.
Too many parents, and often the medical community, focus only on medication to treat ADHD, Pelham said. While monitoring is an important component of treatment, it is often almost nonexistent, he said.
"That's what happens way too often. Some physicians, because of their training, only know how to do medication. The standard for medication monitoring is you see them for 10 minutes, ask about side effects. They might ask the parent do you think it's helping? Do you think we ought to go up in dose? They don't have a good sense of it, because they haven't talked to the school. So that's a bad way to do it," he said.
"Our lab has done more work on that than anybody else in the world. I personally don't think medication is enough for anybody. They all need something else," Pelham said.
Brosco agreed.
"I think of it as sort of a three-legged stool. One is what you do with the child, second is what you do with the environment and third is medication. I tell parents that medication doesn't fix the problem; it provides a bridge. It helps things go better until such time the child's coping skills improve and you get the environment to match his or her skill set," Brosco said.
Teaching parents how to help their child cope is critical, they say.
"You need to teach parents the skills that make them better parents," Pelham said. "There's a specific set of things that you can do to teach parents to be better with ADHD kids. It's the same skills that work with kids with Asperger's, autism, anxiety, conduct problems, they're all similar sets of skills."
Those strategies include attention and rewards for good behavior, "planned ignoring" of bad behavior, timeouts and point systems. Collins said while she knew about some of the parent training approaches, knowing and applying them to your child and busy household consistently are two different things. She said she now uses the same skills for all the children, and it has transformed her household.
"They would teach us how to apply it to your situation, knowing our children, and you get feedback for your specific situation," she said. "We [parents] did role plays in small groups. And they had child care."


text:
Thank You Beary Much! If a friend, co-worker or neighbor has done something sweet for you, repay the favor with our gourmet cookie box. Our adorable teddy bear cut-out cookie shares the spotlight with a golden heart and round cookie that "bears" your personal message in icing.
More About These Gourmet Cookies Select one, two, three or four dozen cookies to reflect their generosity.
NOTE - This item includes multiple personalization, size, color, and/or design options:
You may specify this information during our checkout process.

subset: commoncrawl


text: "Ramos Law Group, PLLC was prompt and courteous and made the divorce process run smoothly. They handled everything for me from start to finish at a reasonable price which I so appreciated during this difficult time. I will definitely be retaining their services should any further legal matters arise. Again…thank you Ramos Law Group, PLLC…class act all the way!"


text:
Although designed to complement our individual healthcare seating products,
our collection of occasional tables can be mixed and matched or specified on their own, as a finishing touch for any healthcare space.
Featuring a combination of European Steamed Beech, Powdercoated 14 ga. Steel and high-pressure laminate components, these tables are built to exceed BIFMA standards, and are designed for placement in 24/7 healthcare environments.
Wood and laminate components are available in our seven attractive
woodgrain finishes.


text:
Everyone on earth must have childhood experience. It is usual that when a child is scolded or beaten by his parents, he doesnÃÂt understand why he is punished in most of the time. However, the child must feel sad, painful or even angry and hateful hen he is being scolded or beaten.
In ÃÂLittle Boy CryingÃÂ, the persona slaps his son because he has been playing in the rain. The emotion of the son contrasts significantly, before heÃÂs playing happily the next minute heÃÂs howling desperately. ÃÂHurt, your laughter metamorphosed into howls.ÃÂ Indeed, the boy feels hurt when his father slaps him. ÃÂHurtÃÂ is repeated in the poem to emphasize the boyÃÂs feeling. He doesnÃÂt understand why his father slaps him, he describes his father as ÃÂthe ogreÃÂ, ÃÂempty of feelingÃÂ, ÃÂcolossal cruelÃÂ. Usually the boys think someone who cause them pain as a monster, because monsters hurt children and cause them pain in fairy tales.
The poem is a free verse. Free verse is used because actually the father is struggling. The father loves his son very much that he rather slaps him but dare not to ruin the important lesson. ÃÂThis fierce man longs to lift you, curb your sadnessÃÂ shows the father really wants to comfort his son. The other example showing that the father really cares his son is the poem includes a mixture of run-on line and end-stop lines, since they represent the crying sequence of the boy, stop and start crying uncontrollably. ÃÂThe hurt your easy tears can scald him withÃÂ proves that the father feels his sonÃÂs pain when he slaps him and when he sees his son crying desperately and innocently, since he doesnÃÂt understand why he is being scolded by his father.
Diction used to emphasize the sadness of the...


text:
A LEEP of Faith/
Here's the follow-up to yesterday's exciting foray into my gynecological world...
I need another LEEP ( Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) . I can take it. I cling to the memories of the warm, motherly nurse type who ushered me back to the room, took the time to carefully point out and explain all the equipment, and then rubbed my hand before winking at me and leaving me to undress.
No such luck this time. Nurse Ratchet's granddaughter with the hole in her nose belaying the fact that she sports a nose ring in her off hours told me unceremoniously and without meeting my eyes, to "disrobe to the waist down—wrap's on the table—doctor will be in shortly." Bing, bang, boom, out the door she goes. Whatever happened to introductions? The waitstaff at Cracker Barrel takes the time to tell me their names and I assure you, none of them come anywhere near the vicinity of my vagina.
I wait for the doctor in a subzero room, which first I think must be for the procedure, but then I decide is just for cruelty. Someone has stolen all the magazines, and I'm left reading the faded warranty patents stamped on the side of the medical equipment, most of which looks like it was last dusted before I was born.
The twenty-year-old nurse reappears and offers me a smile. That's more like it. She reaches into a drawer and whips out a rectangular packet which she rips open, and slaps onto my upper thigh something that resembles a thick white menstrual pad with glue on one side and two wire tubes dangling from it that hook into a machine which beeps.
"Um, excuse me," I venture, as the nurse speed walks to the door. "What would this be for exactly?"
"Oh that," She makes a dismissive gesture with her hand. "That's to ground you." She slams the door shut behind her.
Ground me? Ground me? As in electrical current grounding? I don't remember this from last time. Reminder to self, before doctor begins make sure they have me down for the right treatment. You read those stories about doctors amputating the wrong leg of a patient. No reason they might have me mistakenly listed for some new fangled zapping technique for venereal warts, while wart woman is off somewhere getting her insides scraped for the hell of it.
Grounding. I try to think of any other circumstance outside electricity discussions where I have heard the term used. Grounded, yes. As in punishment, or being down to earth, practical, realistic. Great, here I sit with a large, gooey tampon-like grounding thing stuck to my leg and I'm rattling off Webster's dictionary terms. Now think. What do I know about electricity that may come in useful here? Think…. Think….
Ah, current. Yes, I know that current is involved in electricity. And transfer of energy, I think. Not as sure about that one. And…damnit. Why didn't I pay more attention in eighth grade science when I had the chance?
The doctor and nurse come back in. She seems more subdued and older in the presence of the doctor. Faker, I want to tell her.
"How are we doing?" asks my doctor.
"Freezing," I reply.
"Yes, it is cold in here."
I take it this is to be all our conversation on the atmospheric conditions of the room. I hold off on mentioning the lack of reading material. No point in irritating him before a procedure.
The procedure is pretty much the same as before. Car jack inserted to prop me open, a tube that slide down the middle of that and splay apart inside me like a fist being spread open, each finger extending down a long tunnel. The pressure is, at times, intense.
Then I feel it. A tiny spark. Nothing that hurts. More like the small shock you got as a child when your sister dragged her feet across the carpet and then touched you. There is it again. I jump.
"All right?" asks the doctor.
I don't know why I am loath to complain at doctor's offices, but I am. Gynecologist, dentist, allergist, it's all the same. They put you in these vulnerable positions where you are at their complete mercy, hooked to machines and hearing squeals and whines and watching small pointy drippy needles being passed over the top of your head and they ask if you're all right and what you really want to do is sit up and say, "No, I am not all right. But I would be if I could just pull on my underwear, feel my tongue, etc…"
"Fine," I say.
There it is again, another spark. Only… I don't want to seem weird but I swear I felt the shock not in my vagina where tubes and cotton swabs and equipment of all sort is disappearing at a fascinating rate, but at the base of my buttocks. Again, I'm too intimidated to ask. The grounding thing was new so who knows what new branches the procedure has taken. Then I break into a cold sweat, remembering I forgot to have my little chat with the doctor about what procedure exactly we're doing here…
Another shock, big one this time. I don't just jerk, I buck.
"Did you by any chance feel a shock?" asks my doctor.
"Yes." Followed by another one, and another buck from me. At least I'm getting a good pelvic workout. Although I fear equipment may be soon thrown from my vagina and scattered about the room. How does one apologize for something like that?
"Oh, I get it," says my doctor. "You're grounded, but I'm not. I like to manually manipulate the specula, and when I touch it and then you, I must be shocking you."
He sounds pleased with himself to have come up with the solution. I raise my head and smile my most charming smile. "New rule," I chirp, and lose my grin to glare at him. "No more touching."
He loses his pleased look, nods, and goes back to peering down my vagina, hands well away from the specula. That's more like it.
We finish up and the doctor reminds me no sex until he sees me again. I debate whether to ask him to write this out on a prescription pad but decide that may be overkill.
The pain soon fades and the good news reaching me that this time they got all the abnormal cells and everything appears back on track. I'm glad to hear it. Still, that won't stop me from shuffling my feet across the carpet before my doctor enters the room for our next appointment.
I intend to give that man one hell of a shock.


text:
Visiting Places
About Lucknow -The city of Nawabs, as Lucknow is sometimes known as, is the capital of Uttar Pradesh, the largest state in India. The city has a glorious history and has been known as the cultural centre of Northern India for over two centuries. The arts, including painting, music, and dance, flourished under the generous patronage of the last Nawabs of Awadh, as the region around Lucknow was known as before the states were formed by the British. The city is a wonderful tourism destination and one of the highlights of Uttar Pradesh tourism. To learn more about Lucknow, you can log on to touristplacesinindia.com, which offers comprehensive information about the tourist attractions in Lucknow, tourist accommodation in Lucknow, and other facts about tourism in Lucknow.
Industrial Toxicology Research Centre (ITRC), Lucknow is a constituent laboratory of Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), Government of India.It was established in 1965. Its main campus is located near Hazratganj and another campus, Gheru campus is situated on the Lucknow-Kanpur highway.
Safety to Environment & Health and Service to Industry.
Achieve highest International standards in toxicological research to ensure safety to human health and environment and help regulatory agencies in prescribing safe limits of chemicals.
Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) Lucknow, is one of the pioneer research institutes under the realms of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).The Institute came into existence way back in 1957 and since then has heralded several important research work in the field of bio-medical research. CDRI is a multifaceted research laboratory consisting of scientific personnel of varied disciplines of biomedical sciences.
The Institute has 17 R & D divisions and some technical and scientific support divisions. Apart from that there are 2 data centers and 1 field station located outside CDRI aimed to assist in operational support. The Institute has rendered its valued infrastructure and expertise to develop a drug right from its conceptualization to its marketing. It employs the very latest techniques and methodologies for developing drugs, diagnostics and vaccines which act as a vanguard in preventing diseases prevalent among mankind in general and Indian population in particular.
Although the institute is currently housed in Chattar Manzil, a populous place in Lucknow, the upcoming campus at Sitapur Road plans to give the institute a new look with state-of –the-art-facilities.
Regional Science City, Lucknow was dedicated to the nation by Shri Nakul Dubey, Minister for Culture, Urban Development, Shahri Samaggra Vikas, Institution Finance, Trade Tax, Entertainment Tax and Environment, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh on Sept 21, 2007. Three galleries - "Underwater Exploration", "Biotechnological Revolution" and "Being Human" have been added to the existing facilities in Regional Science Centre, which has been upgraded as Regional Science City. There are also two major attractions - 3-D Science Show andLarge Format Film Projection system, first of its kind in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The Space Theatre shows a large format film on Niagara Falls.
Crocodile Park -Kukrail
Speaking on the occasion during his inaugural address, the Minister commended the efforts of National Council of Science Museums and said that learning is done through the process of hands-on activities and discoveries. He mentioned about knowledge enrichment that the visitors can attain by interacting with a series of exhibits on different scientific subject.
Smt Ambika Soni, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, in her message, complimented the efforts of National Council of Science Museums in developing a state-of-the-art Regional Science City in Lucknow. The Minister also appealed to the public at large and students in particular to take best advantage of the facilities for enhancing the understanding of science.


text: Take the muscle work out of making mashed potatoes. With the Salton Masha you can have consistently smooth mashed potatoes, guacamole, baby food, and more with the press of a button! The patented 'rotor-cone' technology forces all the ingredients through the outer mesh, leaving no lumps in your food. When you done simply run it under the tap for a quick clean up. Mashing vegetables has never been so easy!Add to cart


text:
Classic boat Admiraal HeijnRequest a free quote
Classic canal boat Admiral Heijn is a charming example of a Venetian saloon boat.
The boat is finished with a teak deck, mahogany woods and beautiful details such as facet windows and special upholstery. You'll sail through the Amsterdam canals in style. Whether you choose for a romantic trip with just the two of you, or for a trip with a small group of friends or business colleagues (maximum 12 persons), the boat and its captain will ensure a successful tour.
Request a free quote
- Largest selection of boats in Amsterdam
- Lowest price guarantee
- Including captain
- Free boarding in the centre of Amsterdam
- You will receive a free quote within 24 hours
- 100% electric boat
|Max 12 people
€ 185 per hour (inc. VAT)
|Has a roof
|Toilet on board
|Boat is electric
|Music available
|Heater on board
|Open back deck
|Catering possible
|Corkage rate € 25.00


text:
New Line/Warner Bros. has cast Jason Sudeikis ("Saturday Night Live") in director Seth Gordon's Horrible Bosses. He's joining a cast that includes Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jennifer Aniston, Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx.
Risky Business says "Sudeikis will join Bateman and Day as a trio of friends who conspire to murder each others' bosses. Aniston and Farrell are two of the offending office tyrants, while Foxx is a colorfully named scam artist who dishes killing advice to the three regular guys."
Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley wrote the script from an original spec script by Michael Markowitz. Brett Ratner and Jay Stern are producing via Rat Entertainment.
The studio is eyeing a July 29, 2011 release for Horrible Bosses.


text:
Bohemian Farmhouse Photo Shoot At The Allen Farmhaus/
We loved doing this bright and airy shoot at the Allen Farmhaus. When creating the arrangement, we wanted to incorporate lots of texture in order to make the white blossoms pop. It was an added bonus that we got to create and have some fun with a boho floral bracelet! We were obsessed with the makeup Makael Pritchard did for this shoot and could our model be any more gorgeous? It's always a pleasure working with working Grey to Blue Photography and we just love her light and airy style. The lace deatiling on this gorgeous boho gown from Celebration Bridal was perfect. Allen Farmhaus recently built their new outdoor chapel in New Braunfels, TX and we can't wait to design there. Check out more from this amazing team of vendors below.
Thanks to this dream team of vendors!
Grey to Blue Photography, Makael Pritchard, Allen Farmhaus and Celebration Bridals


text:
Sausalito, California
Nestled up against the Marin County end of the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito is a whimsical waterfront town that defies description. Once home to artists, writers, actors and poets, Sausalito retains a pleasantly offbeat character with an upscale attitude. Stunning views, art galleries, funky boutiques and open-air restaurants make Sausalito a favored tourist destination. Those same stunning views, a delightful climate, and an interesting selection of real estate make Sausalito a desirable place to live as well.
Sausalito - Great Proximity to SF, Activities Abound!
Sausalito is conveniently located for commuting to San Francisco. Only minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge, it is a relatively easy drive into the city. For those preferring not to drive, Sausalito also is a ferry terminus for the Golden Gate Ferry, offering quick, inexpensive transportation into the city.
As a center of activity, Sausalito offers a wide variety of things to do. Stroll along the waterfront or hike in the nearby Marin Headlands, visit the Bay Area Discovery Museum or take the Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour – there is, indeed, something for everyone. Every Labor Day weekend Sausalito hosts what is considered to be one of the finest outdoor art festivals in the country. In December, residents and visitors alike are treated to the Lighted Yacht Parade. Then there is the tantalizing peek into some of Sausalito's most fascinating real estate with the annual Sausalito Floating Homes Tour.
Sausalito CA Real Estate
Real estate in Sausalito is diverse and interesting. Although there are many custom homes designed by well known architects, Sausalito may be best known for its floating homes. These unique homes are located in several private marinas and have all the modern conveniences, including cable TV and computer services. Originally houseboats that served as holiday retreats and artist's lodgings, these homes have evolved into some pretty amazing structures, ranging from quaint, cozy cottages to elegant floating mansions.
For those who prefer terra firma beneath their feet, Sausalito provides an interesting array of traditional housing ranging from custom designed homes perched on the hillsides surrounding the bay to stylish condominiums close to town. Homes in the Wolfback Ridge neighborhood are exclusive and provide expansive views of the surrounding area; and for the discerning and patient mid-century modern enthusiast, homes designed by architects such as Mario Corbett and Roger Lee occasionally come on the market. Housing in Sausalito does tend to be expensive, especially for homes with a view, but proximity to San Francisco, the great Mediterranean climate, and interesting architecture make every dollar well spent.
Sausalito - Boats, Ceramics and More
Not all of Sausalito is glitz and glamour, however. Sausalito has a long history with industry, including boatbuilding, and has been home to many well-known boatyards, the most notable being the Spaulding Wooden Boat Center. As one of the last wooden boatyards on the west coast, Spaulding Center is a living museum dedicated to restoring historically significant wooden boats and the preservation of traditional boatbuilding skills.
Another piece of industrial history in Sausalito can be found in the Heath Ceramics factory. Founded in the mid-1940's by Edith Heath, Heath Ceramics is one of the few mid-century American potteries still in existence. Every facet of every piece is produced in the Sausalito factory, often using the original techniques developed by Edith Heath so many years ago. Heath Ceramics also has a Factory Store, open seven days a week, and offers tours on weekends.
Housing costs in Sausalito tend to be on the high side, especially for homes on the hillsides with their exquisite views of the Bay. The comfortable climate, transportation and commuting choices, and beautiful surroundings help to keep the Sausalito real estate market steady.
If you would like to call Sausalito home, please contact us to discuss your real estate needs. We would be happy to assist you with your Marin County home search.


text:
Indirect Auto Program
Balboa is currently not soliciting customers for loans, but Balboa does work with several local dealerships
Indirect Auto Program
An indirect auto loan is one that you get through the automobile dealer who will finance the original auto sales contract and then subsequently sell the contract to one of several financial institutions. This is basically like getting dealer financing. You are going to go to the dealer and choose your car first. They will then work with a number of financial institutions in order to help you find a loan that will work for your personal budget. Afterwards, the loan is transferred through a sales transaction from the auto dealer who originated the loan with the borrower and subsequently sold to the third party financial institution. For over 35 years, BALBOA has provided customized financial products and services to meet the needs in our community. Our Dealer Service staff works closely with the automotive dealerships to provide quality financing for both new and used cars. We offer competitive pricing and special finance programs to fit every borrower's needs.
Currently, BALBOA purchases auto contract for new or used vehicles through many franchise dealerships, and under certain circumstances independent dealerships, within the states of California and Arizona.
Balboa will finance new and used passenger vehicles and light trucks that will be used for personal use only. Vehicles must be 8 years old or newer and have 85,000 miles or less. Certain makes and models will not qualify.
Balboa can put together an auto loan that is right for you. With flexible terms up to 75 months, we will work with you to structure a monthly payment you can be comfortable with.
Balboa considers the amount and reliability of self-employment income when evaluating a credit application. If the customer meets these and other requirements, we may approve the loan.


text:
I was putting together events on i-heart-food.com's new event calendar and saw the bottles and taps were going to be flowing this weekend. It's been a while since I posted a map to the local booze trail. Here's what's going on and make sure to check out my calendar for more details on the events:
1 May - Beer Tasting at Grape & Gourmet
- Weekly selection of new arrivals and favorites to try in the store.
1 May - ABSOLUT Artini at MOCA (Sold Out)
- 1920s themed Artini event at Virginia MOCA. Sadly it's sold out but there are rumors of getting tickets if you go to their page and poke around.
2 May - Wine Tasting at Farm Fresh (Great Neck)
- Farm Fresh always pours a couple of wines in the store if you're shopping. Good if the kids are getting on your nerves and you want to take the edge off.
2 May - Wine Tasting at Grape & Gourmet
- Weekly Friday night tasting with regulars. Good stuff!
2 May - Wine Tasting at Yiannis Wine Shop
- Yiannis always has something good on the table and if you're lucky maybe something special.
3 May - Big Brew Day at Homebrew USA
- Big Brew Day is a collection of beer enthusiasts who setup shop outside of Homebrew USA and show you how it's done at home. Last year there was a whole pig, hot dogs, hamburgers and much more. Free to the public. I don't think I need to mention there is going to be a lot of beer there right?
3 May - Town Center Virginia Beach Craft Beer Festival
- Town Center will be cordoned off to keep merry makers in while they enjoy the area's finest craft brews. Food and entertainment will be there too.
3 May - Spring Town Point Park Wine Classic
- The 8th Annual Wine Classic returns to Town Point Park running both Saturday and Sunday. Lots of events and wine will be available.
3 May - Mariner's Museum Craft Beer Festival
- The Mariner's Museum will celebrate craft brews from the Southside and Peninsula in the museum. I haven't been to one yet, but they're supposed to be fun. The Hampton Roads Beard and Stache Society will be volunteering too.


text: Swedish ex-Death Metal band, Opeth, continue their evolution as a prog rock band. Their last album, Heritage, marked the transition from growls and double bass drums to softer stuff. Pale Communion sees their metal side being reduced to only a few brief moments, some atonality here and there and some chugging on 'Cusp of Eternity'. The rest is straight-up prog rock. Think Rush. Think King Crimson. Think Pink Floyd. There are some great moments here. 'Goblins' is a killer instrumental track, more bluesy than anything the band have done before and 'River' even has some sweet Deep South vocal harmonies. Unfortunately, the majority of it all feels a bit dated. There aren't any fresh key sounds - the Hammond organs feel like they're straight off a Gentle Giant record from the early 70s. I get dad rock vibes from the whole album, which isn't cool. In the past, the band's death metal side has always counteracted this. Of course, I'm not saying the band need to readopt the growls and blast beats. They just need to work on modernising their sound a fair bit.


text:
On a mission to watch over a biological research team on Planet SR388, Samus is attacked by a strange new parasitic life form known as the "X". Infected by this virus, Samus nearly dies, but a cure is found in time to save her; a cure coming from the DNA of the last Metroid creating a fusion of Metroid energy. Now Samus, as the last natural predator of the "XE is the only one who can stop them.Read More
Metroid Fusion
Love Hina Advance
Ever wonder what it would be like to be Keitaro and be surrounded by a harem full of cute girls dying for your affection? Well, now you don't have to wonder anymore. Take on the role of Keitaro and learn the hard way that a harem anime isn't all it's cracked up to be.Read More
Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
Sleeping forgotten by time a magical book is said to exist that has the power to bend and change the world to the owners will. Somewhere in the small town of Ivalice this legendary book's power is about to awaken by a young boy named Mewt. Transforming the snowy town into a desert kingdom and drawing all his friends into the "Final Fantasy".Read More
Enter the Matrix
The machines have launched an operation to wipe out Zion once and for all now you must do your part to stop them at all costs. Enter the Matrix as one of two of the crew members aboard the Logos and experiance why no one can be told what the Matrix is.Read More
Chobits for Gameboy Advance
In the not so distant future humans have come to depend on persocons, humanoid robots which replace desktop personal computers. Hideki is a poor farm boy ronin attending cram school when one day on his way home from work he discovers a cute abandon persocon in the trash. Turning her on he finds that he may be in over his head as he has to teach her like a new born child.Read More
The year is 2010 and you are invited to play the best selling MMORPG of all time 'The World'. You enter 'The World' as the newbie player Kite, but soon you find that 'The World' is more than just a simple video game when your close friend Orca is left in a coma after your first quest. Now you must journey into the depths of 'The World' in order to find out the truth behind the mysterious events that unfold around you.Read More


text:
Catering Menus
We realize that you're busy, sometimes so busy that you just don't have time to fix the home-style meals your family deserves. We'd love to help. Give us a call and we'll prepare our Sunroom Signatures for you and your family.
Please provide us with at least 24 hours notice so we can ensure you get the quality you deserve.
To place an order please email: email@example.com or call (740) 998-4060.


text:
I've become addicted to smocking. I can't help it! So here are some smocked Easter outfits I make for my kids.
My son just would not sit still.
My daughters dress is Daisy from Australian Smocking and Embroidery magazine #89. It's done in pink cotton with the prettiest subtle, swirly floral pattern. Lined in white cotton. The instructions called for crochet on the collar and sleeves, but I can't crochet, so I found some nice pink lace edging instead.
Here's a close-up of the smocking. 24 full and half rows of the same stitch, over, and over, and over again. I was quite glad to be done with it. But I've very pleased with the result. I love the little daisies with the button centers!
I had a time getting my husband to agree to smocking on my son! He vetoed nearly everything I suggested as "too girly." Hmph! But I finally managed to find something that he thought wouldn't embarrass they boy. Vogue #7504 in dark blue linen, lined with white cotton. The pattern had a shirt to go with the jumper, but it had a rounded collar and apparently that's on my husbands no fly list. So we just bought a white polo for underneath.
After the herculean effort that went into my daughter's smocking, this was a breeze! One color, eight rows, and I actually got to use a few different stitches!
One last pic just for fun! I was really happy with how they both turned out and was especially happy that the weather decided to cooperate for shorts!
Happy Easter!


text:
Hello, I have a process with several threads - the main "worker" threads typically use < 20% CPU - but after upgrading to a new version they're now using > 90% cpu. I'm trying to determine what function these threads are performing that's requiring so much more cpu. Is it bad code? I bug in a library I linked against? What? I've tried gdb with list, info threads, info stack, bt full. I can make sense of some of it. I guess what I'm hoping for is something like "top" at the thread level, such that functions that thread perform are sorted highest util (time/whatever). TIA for any help! Gary

 "This email is intended to be reviewed by only the intended recipient and may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, use, dissemination, disclosure or copying of this email and its attachments, if any, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please immediately notify the sender by return email and delete this email from your system."


text: Kona Earth Coffee - Farm Life Pruning Kona Coffee 4 March 2007 As soon as the season's last ripe Kona coffee cherry is picked off the tree then it's time to start pruning. With several thousand trees, pruning is a process that takes some time. This year's pruning took even longer than usual because the process was interrupted by flowers. I had put in two days of pruning when all the trees started to bloom. It was a heavy bloom and all those flowers means plenty of bees. The entire place was buzzing with bees. The bees generally don't bother people but pruning tree after tree covered in bees might be asking for it. Even if they're harmless, the bees presented a good excuse to put off pruning for a few days until the bloom was finished. Not only is pruning a lot of hard work, it also takes a fair amount of training. Pruning incorrectly can hurt the trees and decreases production while proper pruning keeps the trees healthy and maximizes production. The problem is every coffee farmer in Kona has a different opinion on the "proper" way to prune Kona coffee trees. There are two main camps: traditional Kona style and Beaumont-Fukunaga. Traditional Kona style pruning consists of removing only the oldest branches from each tree so there's room for new branches to replace them. Coffee branches require a year or two to reach full maturity and production starts to drop off by the fourth year. By constantly removing older branches to make room for younger branches the tree can produce at a steady level year after year. It's also possible to prune lighter some years to help boost production and prune heavier in other years to prevent over-bearing die back. The main disadvantage of traditional Kona style pruning is that every tree must be pruned every year. Beaumont-Fukunaga is a relatively new method of pruning that removes all of a tree's branches, leaving only the stump. This may sound drastic but it can actually help to reinvigorate the tree. Every third row is cut back to stumps once every third year, rotating to the next row the following year. This means every tree will be pruned once every three years and each year only one third of the trees need to be pruned. Sometimes it's done on a cycle of four or five years but three is more typical. The time savings gained from Beaumont-Fukunaga style pruning is the obvious gain. Another gain is that it takes considerably less training to stump a tree than it does to select which branches go and which ones stay. The big disadvantage is that every year a third of the trees have been stumped and produce no coffee. This loss of production is partially made up for by the vigorous growth in subsequent years. Being able to hire less skilled labor for less time also helps make up for loss of production. The larger farms usually use Beaumont-Fukunaga while the older, smaller farms often prefer traditional Kona style pruning. Here at Kona Earth we don't have a strong opinion one way or the other and prefer to use whatever method works best for a particular situation. Sometimes a tree needs a rest so it will get cut way back while other trees do great year after year so they don't get a heavy trim until they need it. This hybrid approach seems to be a good blend of the two methods and is working well for us. Home • Shop • Visit • Life Register • Sign In • Shopping Cart Site Map • Contact Us © Copyright 2005-19 - All rights reserved.


text:
Shipping & Freight Services in MD, DC & VA
Are you getting ready to move and want to take advantage of quality shipping and freight services in Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia? Do you need to ship items internationally and want a dependable shipping company? Platinum Moving Services is a full-service DC-area shipping company with more than three decades of experience shipping items of all kinds—including household goods, art, antiques, pianos, and other valuables—to locations across the country and around the world!
Located in Gaithersburg, MD, we are a one-stop shop for any shipping services in the DC area you need!
What We Ship and How:
At Platinum Moving Services, we are logistical problem solvers. Whether you need to ship household goods, automobiles, sailboats, pianos, art, or even small industrial machines, we can help you find the best and most economical way to deliver your cargo anywhere in the United States or to any part of the globe.
At Platinum, we offer efficient, dependable:
National Shipping Services in MD, DC & VA
If you're moving across the country, nothing is worse than arriving in a new, unfamiliar town and realizing half your belongings have been broken or damaged. And since you're in a new location, replacing certain household goods isn't easy! Moving should be as stress-free and convenient as possible, and this is what we strive for at Platinum. When we provide national shipping for you, we guarantee that your shipment will arrive in the exact condition it was in when it left your hands!
International Shipping from MD, DC & VA
When you need to ship freight overseas, take advantage of Platinum's expert packing and shipping services.
We have been shipping internationally via air and ocean for more than 30 years. We safely ship anything, anywhere. Your cargo will be in good hands, with communication throughout every step of the process.
Freight Shipping to and from MD, DC & VA
Platinum is one of the most experienced freight forwarders in the DC/MD/VA area. We ship freight via road, air, and ocean.
- Shipping via air – We ship air freight in passenger and cargo planes, depending on the size and scope of your shipment. If necessary, we can weigh your shipment and put it on pallets at our facility. We can even pick your items up from your location.
- Shipping via Ocean – We have been providing reliable ocean freight services to DC-region clients for more than three decades. We can do it all for you—from packing your items to loading them into a shipping container, taking it to port, and having the items delivered to their destination once they make it ashore. Contact Platinum today for a free ocean shipping quote.
Commercial Shipping in the DC Area
As a licensed international freight forwarder, we work with a number of partners across the United States and all over the world to provide seamless service to our valued customers. We are also plugged in to a network of brokers and customs agents worldwide to aid with problem-free entry, departure, and delivery of your commercial shipments.
In addition to many other commercial shipping services, we can provide:
- Temperature-controlled shipping
- Shared cargo space (shipping your freight with another client's to save you money)
If you have questions about unique cargo or shipping requirements, or any other commercial shipping issue, please contact us!
Vehicle Shipping in MD, DC & VA
As one of the most veteran car shipping companies in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area, Platinum Moving Services sends an average of one vehicle abroad every week. We also arrange car shipping within the United States. Learn more about our DC car shipping services.
MD, DC & VA Boat Shipping Services
Whether you have a canoe, speed boat, or yacht, our DC boat shipping company can ship it safely to its destination. When you're shipping your boat to or from the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia area or elsewhere, trust the team at Platinum Moving to make it a stress-free experience. Find out more about our boat shipping services.
Estate Shipping in MD, DC & VA
Platinum Moving provides complete, considerate estate shipping services designed to be as helpful and stress-free as possible. We can organize and formulate a thoughtful plan to expedite your estate shipping needs. From small apartments to large family homes, no job is too big or too small—and each job is handled with the utmost care.
Call us at 301-591-3858 to speak to a knowledgeable staff member about your estate shipping needs.
Packing & Shipping Services in MD, DC & VA
Whether your belongings are going across town, across the country, or across the globe, you want to make sure they arrive at your new location completely undamaged. We offer packing and shipping services with packing craftsmanship that is second to none! You can rest assured your belongings will arrive at your new location in the exact shape they were when they were packed.
Reliable Shipping & Freight Services in the DC Area
Call Platinum Moving Services today at 301-591-3858 to learn about our expert local, national, and international packing and shipping services!


text:
Jenny Engelke of Giddy Stamper
All About FRESHLY MADE SKETCHES
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Winners For Sketch 41
Jenny Engelke of Giddy Stamper
6 comments:
Beautiful card creations! I really like this sketch.ReplyDelete
Wow! Awesome cards. Can't wait for the next sketch! Such fun.ReplyDelete
Oh wow! Thanks so much for picking me as a finalist. I'm so happy that I recently found this site to play along. Super fun sketches!ReplyDelete
Whooo hoooo! I am so excited, or well, GIDDY about being chosen as the queen this week! What a tremendous honor to come out on top among many, many fabuous entries! Thank you!!!!ReplyDelete
Jen S, thanks for choosing my card as one of this week's princesses. I loved working with this sketch and am honored that you loved my card. Half of the credit must go to Shoregirl Creations where I got this great free image, she is wonderful about sharing her creativity.ReplyDelete
Thanks again guys, I am looking forward to tomorrow's sketch.
woot woot !!! congrats ladies :)ReplyDelete


text:
What happens in San Diego, stays in San Diego.
Or DC, for that matter. Filner's got victims on both coasts.
San Diego Mayor Bob Filner's chief of staff — who is a lawyer — is seeking City Council intervention in a dispute with City Attorney Jan Goldsmith as to whether she can function as a legal adviser on city business.
Deputy City Attorney Walter Chung wrote to Burdick on July 25, demanding she hand over some handwritten notes related to alleged misconduct or sexual harassment by Filner. Burdick is apparently resisting handing over the notes, which were requested by an unnamed party under the California Public Records Act.
Burdick is citing attorney-client privilege.
It gets worse. Filner's lawyer claimed, uproariously, that the city should bear the costs of Filner's legal defens and lawsuits because they had failed to give him the appropriate sexual harassment training. Left out of this argument was any indication about who, exactly, might have been in a superior position, in the city government hierarchy, to order the mayor to do some remedial Bad Touch homework.
But it turns out the city does offer online sexual harassment guidelines to new employees — Filner just didn't bother.
It probably would have been pointless for him to take the classes; he couldn't have heard the instructor over his giggling. But even so:
"Why didn't he do it?" Goldsmith said. "It's irrelevant to the lawsuit. Nice try, Harvey, but it really is irrelevant. If he committed sexual harassment with a city employee, we're going to be liable for his acts. That's why we sued him in a cross-complaint. Because he chose not to take his training doesn't mean somehow the city gets to pay his attorneys fees. It's ridiculous."
Now, with eight credible accusers against him, you'd think poor Mayor Friskyfingers wouldn't have a friend in the world left.
You'd be wrong. Two days ago, with seven victims coming forward to accuse Filner of gross sexual inappropriateness (and I do mean gross), the Democrats' Best Pal Politico helpfully, solicitously even, tweeted this:
Think you know @BobFilnerMayor? QUIZ yourself: How long did he spend in jail for a 1961 civil rights Freedom Ride? http://t.co/wVsYhDHHsv
— POLITICO (@politico) July 29, 2013
thanks to a pair of Merry Andrews, @awsiegel and @covenant_ins


text:
Psychics, mystics and witches are providing Silicon Valley with a supernatural form of tech support.
"Most people want me to protect their computers from viruses and hacks," Reverend Joey Talley, a Wiccan witch based in Marin, told SF Weekly, "so I'll make charms for them. I like to use flora."
But Talley also works with companies to alleviate issues ranging from haunted offices to bugged computer networks.
According to her website, "Issues too unusual or dangerous to take to the straight world of Western helpers are comfortably resolved with Reverend Joey's personalized Wicca help. No problem is too big, too small, or too weird. Resistant conditions and bizarre symptoms are welcome."
Private appointments are $200 per hour and apprenticeships are available.


text:
I noticed an interesting article through my membership in the Indoor Air Quality Association (in providing Phoenix commercial cleaning services, we concentrate on benefiting client health and indoor air quality). The article starts:
"Though many children with asthma eventually grow out of the condition, a severe case in childhood of allergies to furry animals may each signal asthma that will persist into young adulthood, according to a new study."
It brought to mind a client call I responded to, several years ago. Our client manages a building in which offices a fellow who treats asthma and allergies, mostly in kids. He'd complained to our client that some of his patients were having breathing difficulties when visiting his office, clearly not a good thing for someone purporting to treat the same. He was sure that the facility was causing the problems, and pointed to a recurring water stain in a couple of ceiling tiles.
My client asked me to assess the situation, and to take some indoor air quality readings (we use a hand-held particle counter to measure total airborne particles, in several size ranges, mostly in the range of allergens - all central to quality control within our Phoenix janitorial services).
First thing I noticed was that the ceiling tile was not the problem: no ongoing source of water overhead, so mold would be unlikely to grow; but an old stain, apparently from a since repaired roof leak, had been painted over - repeatedly - with a standard latex paint. Stains gradually work their way through latex, so over the months of repainting, and the stain reappearing, the tenant thought a new stain was emerging. That's what "Kills" is for.
IAQ readings were higher than I expected, but I could see no other source of potential problems - until I interviewed the tenant. It seems that, to make his patients feel more at home, he often brought his two long-haired dogs into the office. (The handsome canines in the photo are not the client's; they are two of mine, in the music room. I do have to vacuum dog hair out of the piano, but at least it is not allergic.)
You'd think that someone in the pediatric allergy business would be aware that some kids are allergic to dogs.


text:
Europe Code Week: IoT tutorial at SICS
Tutorial - Internet of Things Services for Homes and Cities
Participation is free, space is limited. Please register here.
This tutorial will give you some of the tools needed to create new Internet of Things services including knowledge about some of the protocols used - RESTful HTTP, MQTT, XMPP and a few of the existing sensor cloud services - Xively, IFFFT, and SICSthSense.
The tutorial starts with a short introduction to the IoT concepts, tools and technologies and after the first introduction the focus will be on hands-on labs. The hands-on labs show how to develop basic IoT services and get them to interact with local devices such as smart-plugs, LED-lamps and sensors. Focus on the labs is on connecting different existing devices with services using the protocols in the introduction part.
Finally we will, before ending the tutorial, start an IoT challenge with a focus on developing a new service of product within the smart city or smart home domain. The details of the challenge will be announced during the tutorial. The challenge will continue until early 2015 where a winner will be selected by a jury of experts within the IoT field.
The tutorial covers the case where an IoT device is already available for creating the IoT service. We will however have some documentation available for anyone who wants to do their own sensor or other IoT device using Contiki OS and uIP.
This tutorial is arranged by SICS and Swedsoft and part of Europe Code Week Oct 11-17.


text:
Jumpstart your job search. Get hired faster. Eliminate the guesswork & ditch the stress.
#ELB School is a 6-week-long guided job search for ambitious minds who are hungry to make their next big career move.
Within this course, you'll get 10 step-by-step lessons on topics that cover not just the application materials, but the more subtle strategies that are proven to get you through the door at hot startups & brand-name businesses alike.
My methods are the key to becoming the next rockstar new hire at your perfect-fit company.
#ELB School has a vibrant positivity to it, and is specifically designed to get you across the finish line and into the role you deserve. There are weekly 90-minute private Q&A calls for ultimate accountability.


text:
Clouds Above the Heather-Line, a work commissioned three years ago by the Carolina Chamber Music Festival, will be performed in Peru as a part of the Festival Internacional de Música Clasica Contemporánea. Lima, Peru.
The superb players will be: Jennifer Curtis, violin; Margaret Dyer, viola; Julia MacLaine, cello; Megan Levin, harp.


text:
Welcome to the family, Everly! As you can see, Everly is not a typical age for a "newborn" session; she's 2 months old here, but her family still wanted photos!!
Baby Bundles are a great way to guarantee that you'll have photos of your baby's first year. The most common thing to do is to document the following stages; Newborn, 4 Month, 8 Month and 1 Year. As you can see above, you don't have to follow the "normal" schedule! Just call me and we'll make a schedule work for you! For more info on prices and what to expect, click here. For more photos, click here.


text:
Second is an easy cutomizable wordpress v-card/portfolio template made entierly (95% with html and css) it allows you to introduce yourself with the most important informations to your features clients or employers.
The template is responsive that's allows you to view it in the mobile devices also.
All the html ,css, javascript code are well organized and commented to make any change easy to do without any problems. The template come whit a 3 sets of colors : red, orange and green to give you a lot of variety in the design plus a four different background pattern to change the look a little bit.
Because second is made with the popular cms Wordpress, it allows you to have a dynamic driven vcard, that you can almost change anything using a very simple to use option panel available under the wordpress interface.
It also supports a regular blog pages main blog page, category and single page.
The template is responsive, so basically you can view it in the mobile/tablets devices and it looks very good in thoose devices. All the html ,css, php, javascript code are well organized and commented to make any change easy to do without any problems.
If you like my template, please don't forget to rate it.
Version 1.3 : updated version 23/8/2013What update has been done :
Some minor changes in the footer.php file Some minor changes in the portfolio.php file Some minor css bug fixes
Version 1.2 : updated version 20/8/2013What update has been done :
Display / Hide option for continue reading button Replace get_template_directory_uri() with get_stylesheet_directory_uri() Display / Hide the socials icones Add previous and next button for the blog posts
Version 1.1 : updated version 14/8/2013What update has been done :
Fixed the navigation display in the mobile device Some minor css bug fixes
Version 1.0
Initial version
- Responsive (mobile/tablet/desktop)
- Html5 & CSS3
- Filterable portfolio
- Jquery powred animation
- Easy to customize
- 3 color skin
- 3 background pattern
- Google map
- Working contact form with a live validation ready to use
- Awesome blog
- Icon icluded
- Psd included


text:
Lifetime Film Portrays Stillbirth
The importance and heartache of watching this groundbreaking film
Return to Zero, a film that will air on Lifetime at 8 pm ET/PT on Saturday, May 17, follows Maggie (Minnie Driver) and Aaron (Paul Adelstein) as they experience the stillbirth of their son and the grief that comes with it. It is based on the true story of the stillbirth that filmmaker Sean Hanish and his wife Kiley endured in 2005.
As much as I looked forward to the release of this film, my palms became clammy as I sat down to watch it this past weekend. My daughter was stillborn in 2011, and at this point, I know how to keep my grief pooled in one corner of my brain. I knew this film would push me into that dark place.
The opening scenes – birthing class, a baby shower filled with happy conversations with family and friends – had me shaking my head in dread, knowing the heartbreak that would follow. Most of us are so unaware of stillbirth nowadays that few think twice about preparing a nursery and filling drawers with baby clothes. I once did the same thing and then lived through the same nightmare that Maggie does.
As Maggie lies on the exam table in her doctor's office, a nurse searches her belly for a heartbeat. The scene was so similar to my own experience that I shook watching it.
What follows is that unthinkable conversation sadly familiar to parents who have experienced stillbirth. How would you like to deliver your baby? Do you prefer a burial or cremation for your baby? This is the scene that gets to the heart of stillbirth. Birth and death collide. In the space of a few minutes, the happiest day of your life becomes the most devastating.
Thankfully, the film jumps forward (revisiting the delivery later) to the time after Maggie and Aaron return home. I needed the break because by this point I was a weeping mess and was worried that I wouldn't be able to watch the rest.
I traveled with Maggie and Aaron through the many facets of grief: numbness, anger, loneliness, and thought that this part of the film had the greatest potential to build understanding among those who haven't been through stillbirth. Yes, grieving parents spend a lot of time crying, but we also spend a lot of time staring at the wall, trying to figure out how to put our lives back together. Aaron, who had hoped to someday take his son sailing, begins to build a boat. This might seem a task that would only deepen his pain, but I understood his need to create some testament to his love for his son.
One of the most important parts of the film for couples that have been through this kind of loss is the relationship Maggie develops with her new doctor, who supports her in a way no one else has. I found similar help by attending a support group for pregnancy and infant loss. When everyone was waiting for me to get back to normal, I needed someone in my life who understood that I would never return to my old self, that I was profoundly changed.
The most emotionally difficult segment of the film is Arthur's birth, but it is the part that I most want my friends and family to see. My daughter's birth was a defining moment of my life, and yet I feel that I cannot talk openly about it. The film captures so well the sadness, fear, and love that come with delivering a baby who has died.
Without giving too much away, I will say that along with deep sadness, there is joy and hope in this moving film, and, though it is a difficult movie to watch, Return to Zero offers insight for every type of viewer.
Those who haven't been through stillbirth might better understand how to talk to and support those who endure this experience. People with a recent loss will see that they can reach a point of acceptance and hope. For me, the film brought a renewed sense of strength. I cannot fathom how people survive stillbirth, how I survived it. But we do, and then we reach back and offer whatever help we can to those behind us. Return to Zero is that helping hand on a grand scale.


text:
Each year, starting around the later weeks of September, there is a great deal of high-spiritedness and elation amongst Royal Arch companions as the Provincial Grand Chapter meeting in Southport draws ever closer.
This year, in coming to the decision to give their patronage to the full, many companions had been actuated by a diverse range of reasons. To those who had been listed for Provincial honours, be they first appointments or promotions, the decision was easy. It would be a fantastically proud day for them. The decision by others to give their custom was, however, less clear-cut. To some, the sheer pleasure of witnessing the spectacle was enough. To others, the resolution to attend came from a combination of that same enjoyment of the spectacle, the meeting of old friends and acquaintances and from a desire to support colleagues who were to receive due recognition for their contribution to Royal Arch Masonry.
Amongst the latter band was a sizeable contingent of companions from the Blackpool Group. There was a coachload of merry fans, dressed up to the nines and determined to make the most of the day and exercise their tonsils to the full in support of their fellow Royal Arch companions. Certainly the spectacle of the event was a key attraction. The camaraderie of the gathering was a huge consideration. And the company of the Provincial Grand Superintendent Tony Harrison and other leading personalities in Royal Arch Masonry was a major draw.
All these considerations counted with the party of revellers from Blackpool, but what really drew them to Southport like a magnet was the knowledge that some of their colleagues were to receive Provincial honours, some as first appointments and some as promotions.
Whilst the select coachload of ardent cheerleaders were celebrating the fortunes of all the recipients, they were particularly focused on two of their closest friends, Jack Monks and Melvyn Wainwright. And it was to execute a fitting tribute to Mel and Jack that the companions had gathered in Southport to support them on the occasion of receiving their Royal Arch promotions.
Mel Wainwright, a Mason to the core if ever there was, was being promoted to the rank of Past Provincial Grand Sword Bearer, an honour that could not adorn the chest of a more deserving man. One thing that can be stated categorically about Mel is that he has no shortage of chirpiness at meetings or during relaxation in the bar. Cheeriness and good humoured banter are in abundance in his presence. He definitely fulfils the wishes of the Provincial Grand Superintendent Tony Harrison when he encourages enjoyment in Freemasonry. Presently in the chair of King Solomon in his craft lodge, 2017 has been a big year for Mel and his fans heartily greeted his promotion.
No doubt readers of these chronicles who are regular visitors to the Masonic Hall in Blackpool will be fully aware of the workings of Jack Monks, but this report will give the readers the strength of them once again, just to keep the records straight. He is the dedicated fellow who, if one remembers, is largely responsible for the superb modernisation and decoration of the lounge bar, dining areas and other facilities in the building. As vice president of the Masonic Club, Jack has worked tirelessly to provide the members with the opulence and comfort that the club now enjoys.
No rank could have been more appropriate than the one with which Jack was awarded. It ranks him amongst the highest-ranking Provincial officers in the Province of West Lancashire. He is placed amongst the most elite of Royal Arch companions. Past Provincial Grand Scribe Ezra is a rank reserved for only the best of the best – a position which those who know Jack Monks will endorse as truly worthy of the man. None could be more deserving of the honour.
It was a proud occasion for Jack and Mel and a joy for all those who accompanied them on their special day. It was an occasion on which all celebrated these two most deserving of recipients.
But, typically of Jack Monks, once he had received his honour from the Grand Superintendent, he couldn't wait to get back to his beloved club. Recharged and buoyant, Jack and Mel, along with their jolly boys' supportive fans, embarked their coach and headed back to Blackpool. It was there that they continued the day's celebrations. Chirpy revelry over an A-class meal, repartee of high order between companions and cheery chitchat made for a perfect ending to a memorable and highly gratifying day. There was little doubt that Jack Monks and Mel Wainwright were the men of the moment during the festivities.
But, by this juncture, the casual reader may have wrongly assumed, because these writings have, so far, concentrated their contents on Jack and Mel, that the jolly boys' outing was only about celebrating the promotions of the aforementioned. This would be a total misconception. Yes, the party was especially enthusiastic in its celebrations of its closest friends but was equally delighted that others in the Blackpool Group had also received due recognition. The following paragraphs will therefore paint a fuller picture and pay tribute to all the companions of the Blackpool Group who were honoured by the Province. For clarity and preciseness, a comprehensive list now follows:
Acting ranks:
David Thomas, Peace and Unity Chapter No 3966 PrDGDC
Peter Maxwell, Peace and Unity Chapter No 3966 PrGJan
Juan Topping, Bispham with Norbreck Chapter No 4731 PrGStwd
First appointments:
Malcolm Woods, Peace and Unity Chapter No 3966 PPrGStdB
John Herdman, Bispham with Norbreck Chapter No 4731 PPrAGDC
Jack Monks, Blackpool Chapter No 1476 PPrGSE
Bryan Houghton, Blackpool Chapter of Integrity No5864 PPrGSN
Gordon Thomson, Peace and Unity Chapter No 3966 PPrGSN
Mel Wainwright, Blackpool Chapter No 1476 PPrGSwdB
Gordon Ivett, Blackpool Chapter of Integrity No5864 PPrGSwdB
Rodney Gee, Peace and Unity Chapter No 3966 PPrDGSwdB
Fred Vickers, Bispham with Norbreck Chapter No 4731 PPrGStdB
Barrie Hage, Peace and Unity Chapter No 3966 PPrGSoj
Steve Smith a member of Bispham with Norbreck Chapter No 4731 has previously received the rank of PPrGSwdB in East Lancashire.
An impressive list it makes and all are truly worthy of their honours. The 'jolly boys' outing featured in these chronicles formed only a portion of the total number of companions from the Blackpool Group who lent their support to the recipients. Some went as individuals, some in smaller groups and some in parties with companions from other groups. They all had one thing in common though; they enthusiastically applauded all the companions who were rewarded by the Grand Superintendent. There is little doubt many jolly boys are already planning next year's outing.


text:
Bringing new life to struggling churches...
St. Louis Metro is seeking to reverse the trend of churches in decline and closure. Toward that end we have established a Church Revitalization process that seeks to 1) identify congregations in crisis and need 2) assist them through a defined process and 3) identify, equip and resource called men who will lead these churches into a better future. We do this through relationships, leadership and partnerships.
Change is hard – it takes trust which is from relationships
Work should be done strengthening the churches relationship with the Lord
Consultant/Coach should work from both a Biblical and relational perspective
Time must be given for church leaders and membership to know coach/consultant of church revitalization. Do not rush process.
The more drastic the changes needed the deeper the relationships are needed
Levels of relationships: key leaders, CR team, church body
Consultant/Coach should lead change through the relationships
Church Revitalization requires "Intentional Focused Leadership"
Church Revitalization requires "uphill leadership"
Consultant/Coach must have strong leadership skills (people, plan, process)
Church members must be developed as leaders
Leadership that shifts from program leaders to process leaders
Leadership must be given both responsibility and authority
A new leadership standard and structure must be established
Churches need outside partners to help see and do what needs done
Associations are in a perfect position to provide partners – staff/churches
Each partnership will be unique but serve to supply needed resources
Partnerships should focus on both internal and external issues
Partners should strengthen and enhance but not enable or replace
Partnerships require good communication and time agreements


text:
handmade and eco-friendly
Our belly baskets are perfect for storing toys, books, linens, laundry, and more. They're also useful for taking to the beach, market, or picnic, and they make great homes for your favorite potted house plant. Collapse and stack them when not in use. Hand-woven by skilled artisans in Vietnam, each basket is unique and made with renewable seagrass.
large natural basket
large basket with pink pom-poms
large basket with black pom-poms


text:
My fellow wedding planner friend Emilie Duncan of Emilie Duncan Events in Ohio has put together a very short 9 question survey about websites and blogs. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I promise, this will only take a minute of your time! If you wouldn't mind, please click on the link below and answer 9 quick, easy questions about different design aspects of wedding vendor's websites.
We won't record anything about you other than what state or country you are from - we don't even ask for your email address so no spam or anything like that.
You will likely see this link on lots of other blogs and sites - this survey is being shared all over the blog-o-sphere so please take the survey only once.
If you have additional comments on the subject, please feel free to email me with those and I will share them with the other wedding vendors who are participating! We can't wait to hear what you have to say!
(If you are a wedding vendor and would like to participate, just copy this post to your blog and email the link to emilie {@} emilieduncan {.} com - I will send you the results once we have closed the survey in March)


text:
Shabbat (The Sabbath)
This is celebrated on the seventh day of the week. It is a day of rest and worship. It was given to commemorate the Creation and to confirm G-d's special relationship with His Chosen People. It is very important to observe Shabbat, more so than any of the holidays, as it is G-d's fourth commandment, "Remember the day, Shabbat, to set it apart for G-d."
Scriptural references: Genesis 2:2-3; Exodus 20:8-11, 31:14-15; Leviticus 23:3; Isaiah 56:6-7; Hebrews 4:9-10


text:
You can ensure good oral health when you keep your mouth and teeth clean at all times. Ideally, you should brush your teeth at least thrice daily and floss regularly to get rid of food debris. Moreover, you should visit your dentist for expert advice on how you can prevent common oral problems including gum disease, tooth decay and halitosis.check over here
What You Can Do to Maintain Oral Health
By following a healthy lifestyle and applying these tips, you can achieve excellent oral hygiene.
- Consult your dentist regularly
Regular visits to your dentist and professional prophylaxis are excellent ways to prevent oral problems. Your dentist will also search for signs of dental cavities and diseases, since certain oral issues may lead to serious health concerns. For instance, untreated cavities may be quite painful and cause infections. Only a dentist who has the expertise and professional training can diagnose and find the ideal treatment to all types of oral health concerns.
- Practice proper oral hygiene
You should consider using a soft-bristle toothbrush and brush your teeth twice or thrice daily with fluoride toothpaste. This way, you can remove bacteria and plaque that cause periodontal disease and cavities. Fluoride is effective in maintaining health teeth that are free from proximal caries.
- Eat nutritious foods and follow a well-balanced diet
Healthy food can help you maintain overall health, since certain nutrients support strong bones and teeth. You may want to consider drinking fluoridated water occasionally, as this can help maintain oral health. However, you should keep in mind that too much fluoride in your drinking water could cause damages to your teeth. It is also ideal to avoid eating sugary foods such as sweets, rich cakes, and carbonated drinks that may cause dental problems.
Foods and Drinks that You Should Avoid
Aside from brushing your teeth, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly, you should avoid certain foods and drinks that can lead to oral diseases. Individuals who drink alcohol are risk factors for throat and mouth cancers. Cigarette smoking is also detrimental to your oral health, as tobacco reduces the level of blood flow to your gums. When this occurs, your gums will not be able to receive the right amount of oxygen and nutrients that can prevent bacterial infection.
You should also avoid eating foods and other snacks that have high sugar content or starches. It is also ideal that you eat about five servings of fiber-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables that can stimulate salivary flow. This supports the re-mineralization of the surfaces of your teeth during the early phases of tooth decay.
Bottom Line
While the tooth enamel is considered as a hard substance, it is still prone to damages and decay. If the condition is left untreated or undetected, bacteria will continue to go deeper into your teeth. This will lead to serious pain, swelling and abscesses. You can avoid this problem and ensure the general health of your oral cavity by visiting your doctor and obtaining the right treatment for your dental problem.


text:
Allergen Information:
Additional information from the manufacturer: Manufacturer on equipment used to process Dairy, Peanut, Almond, Walnut, Pecan, Nutmeg, and Soy Protein.
Misc. info: Non-GMO Project Verified.
Gluten-free info: Gluten Free. Additional information from the manufacturer: Facility is gluten-free.
Vegetarian info: This item is vegan.
Kosher certification: KOF-K DE
Organic info: USDA Certified Organic by QAI
Made in:USA
About 168 individually-wrapped pieces per 2 pounds.
Serving Per Container: About 14
Calories: 60
Calories from Fat: 0
Total Fat: 0g (0% DV)
Saturated Fat: 0g (0% DV)
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
Sodium: 0mg (0% DV)
Total Carbs: 16g (5% DV)
Fiber: 0g (0% DV)
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 0g
Vitamin A: 0%
Vitamin C: 0%
Calcium: 0%
Iron: 0%


text:
Butterfly Sizer/
If you've been keeping up with our products on Etsy and 1st Dibs, you may have noticed the following comment:
"This ring may be sized down with the addition of a butterfly sizer."
What exactly is a butterfly sizer? Let us explain.
The innovative and creative individual that he is, Michael Barin came up with a solution to size down very intricate rings and accommodate women with large knuckles. By inserting flexible wings to the inside of the band, he achieved a more comfortable fit for rings that are difficult to slide on, but need to stay securely in place. Women with arthritic hands will be happy to know that the butterfly sizer will allow them to remove rings without any difficulties – the wings open to allow the wearer to slip off the ring and later put it back on again with the same ease.


text:
Our modern world is run by computers — they make our work and our play easier, more productive, and more fun. They've revolutionized how we function as a society and how we interact as people. Computer Science provides the framework for high-tech innovation and the underlying superstructure that supports our modern lifestyle.
It's no wonder then that Computer Science is one of the most popular and lucrative career choices. If you like problem solving, math, and science, or just see the future differently and want to make your own contribution a Computer Science major may be an ideal way to get started.
COMSC-072 - Discrete Mathematics
This course is an introduction to the discrete and combinatorial mathematics that serves as a foundation for advanced courses in mathematics and computer science. Topics include logic, predicates and quantifiers, validity of argument, mathematical proof techniques (including induction), sets, Boolean algebras, recursive algorithms, functions, relations, elementary number theory, combinatorics, discrete probability, and an introduction to graphs and trees.
Units: 4
Lecture Hours: 4 | Lab Hours: None | Repeatable: No | Grading: L | Credit by Exam: Yes
Prerequisite: MATH 021 and 022 or MATH 025; all with C or better
Advisory Level — Read: 3 | Write: 3 | Math:
Transfer Status: CSU/UC | Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COMSC-075 - Computer Science I: Introduction to Program Structures
An introduction to computer programming concepts from a computer science perspective. Programming structures of sequential, selection and repetition are covered using a high-level object oriented language. Using existing classes and creating classes, methods, argument passing, program and data abstraction (including arrays) are covered. Documentation, programming style, and program design and development are addressed throughout the course.
Lecture Hours: 3 | Lab Hours: 3 | Repeatable: No | Grading: L
Prerequisite: MATH 025 or MATH 021 and MATH 022, all with C or better.
COMSC-076 - Computer Science II: Introduction to Data Structures
This course covers abstract data types and structures in an Object Oriented environment and the use of advanced programming techniques. Students will learn to reason mathematically about programs, including Big-O methods. The principles of encapsulation, abstraction, and polymorphism will be applied to large programming projects. The course will cover data structures and algorithms for such task as searching, sorting, and collections, using sets and list implement with arrays and link-list and to implement stacks, queues, trees, graphs, iterators and hashing.
Prerequisite: COMSC 072 or MATH 070 and COMSC 075, all with a C or better
COMSC-138 - Work Experience
Occupational Work Experience is designed for students who work or volunteer in a field related to their career major. Students are required to provide evidence that they are enrolled in a career program (e.g., education plan or coursework in a career/occupational subject area). Students can earn one unit of credit for each 60 hours of unpaid volunteer time or 75 hours of paid work during the semester. Students can repeat Career/Occupational Work Experience, combined with General Work Experience, or alone, up to a maximum of 16 units. Internship/job placement is not guaranteed.
Units: 1 - 8
Lecture Hours: None | Lab Hours: 1.81 | Repeatable: 15 | Grading: O
Corequisite: Be employed or a volunteer at an approved work-site for the minimum number of hours per unit as stipulated for paid and unpaid status.
Transfer Status: CSU | Degree Applicable: AA/AS
Contact Info:
Dr. Antoinette Herrera, EdD, MSN, RN
Dean, Math, Science and Engineering
Vera NazarovSr. Division Administrative Assistant
(408) 270-6490MS3 Building - SA 212


text:
Standard 4, Equality and Diversity
|Key Information:
|Please contact us for the next available date
|North London Business Park or purchasing organisation's own venue
|Half day
Target Audience
This course is ideal for you if you are new to working within the Health and Social Care sector. It is also relevent for experienced staff who would like to refresh their knowledge and skills.
This course aims to define diversity, equalty, inclusion and discrimination and explore how your practice can deliberately or inadvertently discriminate and exclude others. You will learn how legislation and the Code of Conduct applies to your role. You will explore how to work in an inclusive way and how to challenge discrimination effectively. Finally you will learn how and when to access information, advice and support about diversity, equality and inclusion.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course you will be able to:-
- Know the importance of equality and diversity
- Know how to work in an inclusive way
- Know how to access information, advice and support about diversity, equality an inclusion
Course Contents
- Definition of diversity, equality, inclusion and discrimination
- Equality Act 2010, Human Rights Act 1998
- Skills for Care Code of Conduct
- Deliberate and inadvertent discrimination
- Challenging discrimination
- Accessing information, advice and support
Learners who complete the Care Certificate may wish to progress to the QCF Health and Social Care Diploma


text:
Custom Messages are a great resource to help guide your families along the application flow, and give them instructions in the Sign Up and Log In pages.
Custom Messages can be added in the following pages:
- Sign Up
- Log In
- Forgot Username
- Forgot Password
- Select School year / student / grade
- Select School
- Rank Schools
- Header Message
- Submit Application Confirmation Popup
- Student Dashboard
- Enter an Access Code
Steps to Create and Edit Custom Messages:
Go to Settings --> Custom Messages
You will have the option to Create, Edit or Customize the message for each page:
Custom Messages will appear in a yellow box along in their respective page. The Header Message will be visible in the top banner, throughout SchoolMint.


text:
Out year and a half ago Sony Ericsson gripped the attention of many with the Xperia X1, the first handset of the manufacturer to run the operating system of Microsoft. With its elegant look, compact size, powerful hardware and ingenious panel interface, the X1 managed to become a daydream of quite a few high-tech buffs. The market release of its successor, the Sony Ericsson XPERIA X2 had been delayed on several occasions, but the newcomer finally arrived at the beginning of this month. Before we get down to what it´s capable of, however, let´s take a quick look at its specifications. This is the second WM phone of the manufacturer - it utilizes the latest version 6.5 of the operating system and comes with improvements to the panel interface that should be able to deliver richer functionality and meet the whims of any customer group. The overall design has also been altered, the display has grown and the flimsy camera has been replaced by a heavyweight player, because the pixel count of the sensor has been increased from 3.2 to 8 megapixels. The hardware, however, remains virtually the same – the handset is equipped with 528MHz processor, 256MB RAM and 512MB ROM, with the only difference being the lack of FM Radio in the Xperia X2.
What´s in the box of the Sony Ericsson Xperia X2:
• The Sony Ericsson Xperia X2
• Stereo headset – the Sony Ericsson MH500
• microUSB cable
• Wall charger
• 4GB microSD card
• TV-out cable
• User guide


text:
Clients include: Sideshow Collectibles, Wizards of the Coast, Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: the Gathering, Llewellyn Worldwide, Paizo Publishing, Fantasy Flight Games, Applibot, Cygames, 3dtotal Publishing, Scholastic, Capstone/Stone Arch Books, New England Science Fiction Association, Little Brown and Company, and Random House UK.
Scott Murphy grew up in Western Massachusetts spending most of his time in the woods or climbing around in trees. Those being the places where he could conjure up all of the best adventures. Eventually, his love for adventure began to find it's way onto paper, and he never looked back. Scott graduated with a BFA in illustration from The Hartford Art School in 2006, and in 2014 obtained his MFA in illustration from the same institution. His work has been published in several books, articles, and games. Scott has always been intrigued and inspired by the various worlds and endless possibilities within the sci-fi and fantasy genres. He strives to employ the sense of adventure he's had since a very young age to inspire his artwork and give life to the stories and worlds within.
Scott lives and works in Western Massachusetts with his super talented wife, Elisabeth Alba, in their apartment filled with strange objects, medieval weapons, and art books.
If you would like to get in contact with Scott please email at:


text:
Showing Suppliers 1 - 20 of 22
Dillon Manufacturing, Inc.
Address: 2115 Progress Drive, Springfield, OH
Business Type: Manufacturer
Description: When you need it tomorrow Quality Chuck Jaws made in the USA Dillon Manufacturing knows the importance of well designed Top Jaws. Download their product catalog on their website to review many of the known facts and variables that influence Top Jaw design and in turn operate... (more)
Gem Air Controls Inc.
Address: 3033 Production Ct., Dayton, OH
Business Type: Distributor
Grainger Industrial Supply
Business Type: Distributor
Description: Grainger helps customers save time and money by providing them the right products to keep their facilities up and running. Grainger's customers are 2.0 million businesses and institutions in 157 countries. While each customer has a unique facility to operate and a different problem to solve, our... (more)
Address: 1455 E. 2nd St. Branch 207, Franklin, OH
Address: 939 W. 8th St. Branch 154, Cincinnati, OH
Address: 915 Industry Ave. Branch 298, Lima, OH
Address: 360 Victoria Rd. Branch 952, Youngstown, OH
Address: 1300 Third St. Branch 848, Perrysburg, OH
Address: 4420 Glendale Milford Rd. Branch 152, Cincinnati, OH
Address: 1040 National Pkwy. Branch 175, Mansfield, OH
Address: 2321 Needmore Road Branch 208, Dayton, OH
Address: 7576 Tyler Blvd. Branch 162, Mentor, OH
Address: 420 Kennedy Rd. Branch 161, Akron, OH
Address: 1721 6TH St. SW Branch 163, Canton, OH
Address: 1035 Valley Belt Rd. Branch 160, Brooklyn Hts., OH
Address: 8700 Le Saint Drive Branch 206, Hamilton, OH
Address: 3640 Interchange Rd. Branch 176, Columbus, OH
Address: 6999 Huntley Rd. Branch 177, Worthington, OH
Address: 1781 W. Main St. Branch 209, Troy, OH
Parker Hannifin Corporation
Address: 6035 Parkland Blvd., Cleveland, OH
Business Type: Manufacturer
Description: The Global Leader in Motion and Control Technologies Parker Hannifin is a Fortune 250 global leader in motion and control technologies. For 100 years the company has engineered the success of its customers in the mobile, industrial and aerospace markets. Parker's... (more)
Parker Hannifin / Automation / Actuators
Address: 135 Quadral Drive, Wadsworth, OH
Business Type: Manufacturer, Service


text: I absolutely love starting my day with a cup of coffee. The comforting warmth, a kiss of steam, deep chocolate-y brown... even the splotches and drips I used to make these illustrations are comforting to me. This set of coffee-fueled illustrations was published in the Bay Magazine's February issue. Enjoy!


text:
Our Caregivers
At First Health Care, we hire only highly skilled and qualified staff to provide services for you. Our in-home healthcare professionals include:
- Registered Nurses
- Registered Practical Nurses
- Personal Support Workers
We ensure that our in-home team are passionate about your care. Each of our caregivers receive an orientation, ongoing health and safety training and access to educational opportunities. All our health care professionals have been cleared through background checks, health clearances and reference checks. Their performance is evaluated and feedback is provided to ensure continuous improvement in our service levels.


text:
Realogy, SIFMA join dissent on qualified mortgage definitions
The debate over how lawmakers should draft the qualified residential mortgage and qualified mortgage rules proposed under Dodd-Frank picked up momentum this past week with real estate professionals attacking the two rules for being somewhat redundant and unclear in their approaches. Real estate and relocation services provider Realogy Corp. used the open comment period on the qualified residential mortgage rule (QRM) to suggest replacing the QRM with a set of enhanced disclosure requirements that would force issuers of mortgage-backed securities to highlight all of the risks tied to each securitization deal. In its current form, the proposed qualified-residential mortgage would give borrowers who put at least 20% down on their mortgages a chance to be exempted from the credit-risk retention rule. The proposed risk-retention rule in its current form requires firms to hold 5% of the risk on securitized loans. New Jersey-based Realogy submitted a proposal suggesting lawmakers forget about the QRM and instead create an "enhanced disclosure approach." "We believe the current QRM definition that includes a down-payment requirement of 20% would create unduly tight credit standards and place homeownership out of reach for millions of potential buyers," said Richard Smith, president and CEO of Realogy Corporation. "This was not the intent of Congress when the Dodd-Frank Act was passed, and we remain hopeful that the regulators will make a course correction, wisely choosing not to damage an already fragile housing market." In a written response to regulators, Realogy said "the focus should be on applying rigorous underwriting standards looking at various factors, not simply on the magnitude of down payment. Further, any minimum down payment percentage as QRM requirement should not exceed the percentage required under FHA rules in effect at any given time." The Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association also piped in, adding to the viewpoint of the American Securitization Forum by suggesting the drafters of the rules need to establish clearer definitions and standards of conduct when it comes to how real estate professionals meet the provisions of the qualified mortgage standard — which requires lenders to ensure a borrower has the ability to repay a loan — and the QRM, which deals with risk retention during the securitization process. "The definition of qualified mortgage will also need to work seamlessly with its related construct, that of a qualified residential mortgage," SIFMA said in its response to the QRM and QM. "This will require a high degree of coordination among the various regulatory agencies to ensure that standards are interpreted and applied consistently. To ensure that is the case, SIFMA proposes that any mortgage satisfying the definition of qualified residential mortgage should also automatically satisfy the definition of qualified mortgage." Write to Kerri Panchuk.


text:
The Critique of God as Being
To begin this journey, we start with some of the critiques that have been leveled against the religious understanding of God. The religious understanding of God is a substantive understanding of the divine as the highest being, that stands over the universe. As we take this journey together, we will see how there are different views of God in the theological tradition. This first understanding of God, which is the one we are most familiar with, has been critiqued throughout history, and is the main target of New Atheism.


text:
The neat parabolic design of the KHT-2005.2 satellite speaker is not just for aesthetics. Using computer modelling the Kef engineers have reduced the internal resonances and distortions to a minimum as well. The neat design does not just stop there either. Each speaker has a multi position base assembly that will sit the speaker on a flat surface, angled surface or a wall including a cable management system built in to keep the whole appearance neat and tidy.
All the 5 satellite speakers are the same so as the sound passes round you there are no discernible changes so an even, smooth soundfield is achieved.
The drive units are all 4" UNI-Q® with ¾" dome tweeters. Being centrally mounted the tweeters and mid range of the UNI-Q® form a perfect point-source for the sound. This give more flexibility in speaker mounting as the dispersion is much wider than conventional speakers. The 'sweet-spot' is therefore much wider and not confined to one cushion on the sofa but the whole sofa itself and the armchair and the other sofa......etc.
To supply the sub and low bass a 10" 200w active subwoofer is included that is subtle enough for your finest music and mean enough to stomp through a blockbuster.
Extra speakers can be added to create 6.1 or 7.1 systems.
Contact sales for details.
Satellite Speaker
Type Reflex ported 100mm / 4" UNI-Q® mid with 19mm / ¾" tweeter
Frequency range 80 Hz - 27 kHz
Power handling 100w
Sensitivity (2.83v/1m) 88dB
Maximum output (spl) 104dB
Impedance 8Ohm
Weight 2kg
Dimensions HxWxD 198 x 130 x 150mm
Colours high gloss black or matt silver
Subwoofer KUBE2
Type 10" and 10" ABR (auxiliary bass radiator)
Frequency range 35 Hz - 150 Hz
Amplifier 200w
Maximum output (spl) 112dB
Weight 12kg
Dimensions HxWxD 335 x 330 x 330mm
Finish black glass lid, black fabric sides