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posted by Robert Hall Friday 18th April 2014
The other Sunday afternoon I climbed the Worcestershire Beacon, one of the Malvern Hills. It's a climb of over a thousand feet and, at my age and condition, a useful exercise. I love walking for all the obvious reasons, including the ability to think, talk to God and work things out in a way which I cannot do in the office. My eyesight is deteriorating, so the view from the top was not as clear as once it was, yet to look over our beloved kingdom, created by God for His purpose, is still a joy. Praise Him!
At the very top there is a triangulation point. Although made redundant by satellite technology, four young people sat on three sides with their backs to the concrete. I occupied the fourth side, and together we surveyed the distant horizon. They could doubtless see more clearly than me, but I perhaps knew more about future dreams, achievements and disappointments. I silently prayed for them. They decided to get up and one of the girls said 'Goodbye' as she left. How nice to be acknowledged. I prayed for them as they disappeared into the distance. Praise Him!
The going down is frequently more hazardous than the going up and I found myself on loose stones and began to slip. I found myself running downhill to maintain my balance, very grateful for the stick I had brought with me as a last-minute thought. After a few metres, I managed to regain a safe walking pace. Praise Him!
Some time later, as I descended, I met a woman toiling uphill, head down, busy with her smart 'phone. On her back sat a child of around eighteen months. We stopped to speak and the child gazed at me with the kind of wonder experienced when seeing an elephant for the first time. As I walked on, I prayed for the child, her whole life spread out before her, again with its delights and hazards. Praise Him!
At our evening service I sat by a friend who said he had seen me during my walk, "striding out with a staff like Moses". Hardly, I thought. On the other hand, all we Christians in education are leaders. Yes, some more than others, but if we have children in our care we are, necessarily, leaders. Like Christian leaders down the years, our business is to seek him when our feet begin to stumble. Let's ask Him for guidance in our dealings with people. Even in the briefest of exchanges a kind word can be remembered. Praise Him!
posted by Gill Robins Friday 4th April 2014
Earlier this week I spent an enjoyable hour discussing the RSA report 'Schools with Soul' (the focus of last week's blog) with Simon Marsh on his radio show, 'Caught or Taught'. In the course of the conversation, I mentioned in passing the poem 'What is this life if, full of care, We have no time to stand and stare' – wrongly quoted and wrongly attributed, for which, apologies to the author. It set me thinking though, particularly when I read the whole poem, kindly emailed to me after the broadcast by Robert Hall. Where, in the midst of all our busyness, is there time to watch the world go by; to meditate?
Now there's a current buzz word – meditate. Anthony Seldon, writing in Resurgence and Ecologist recently, described the value of stillness in school life. Ever ready to embrace any idea that might raise standards, the idea has been picked up by Liz Truss, who is apparently looking at introducing Buddhist mindfulness training into the classroom to help children pay attention (and thereby, of course, increase the potential value of each economic unit, aka each human child). But Christian meditation is quite different from any other form of meditation. It involves focusing your mind on God rather than emptying it or thinking of yourself, and there are three components to Christian meditation. These are: grounding our thoughts in the Bible, responding to the love of God and then worshipping God. The following is written not to improve your well being (although it may) or to improve your work output (although that may be an outcome, too) but just because God is.
Here is the complete version of the poem 'Leisure' which I misquoted, written by W.H. Davies, with the Bible verses that it brought to mind. As you breathe a sigh of relief at having made it to the end of another term and as you look forward to a well-earned rest, take time to be still, to meditate and to worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness, reflected for us in His creation.
What is this life if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare?—
'Be still and know that I am God Psalm 46:10
No time to stand beneath the boughs,
And stare as long as sheep and cows:
'ask the animals and they will teach you ... in his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.' Job 12:7,10
No time to see, when woods we pass,
Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass:
'all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together' Colossians 1:16-17
No time to see, in broad daylight,
Streams full of stars, like skies at night:
'The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands' Psalm 19:1
No time to turn at Beauty's glance,
And watch her feet, how they can dance:
'He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has ... set eternity in the hearts of men' Ecclesiastes 3:11
No time to wait till her mouth can
Enrich that smile her eyes began?
'Worship the LORD in the splendour of his holiness' 1 Chronicles 16:29
A poor life this if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare.
Be still and know that I am God;
I will be exalted' Psalm 46:10
May you know God's richest blessing and deepest peace during Easter, as you recharge your batteries for the final lap of the academic year.
posted Friday 21st February 2014 by Gill Robins
The Royal Society of Arts published the first of its RSA Investigate-Ed reports this week – a series of planned investigations into key issues which aim to offer 'new ideas for policy and practice in response to emerging evidence and changing concepts' to 'give policy makers, practitioners and other stakeholders structured spaces to diagnose problems and generate solutions.' The first report, Schools with Soul is an in-depth consideration of the role of spiritual, moral, social and cultural education (SMSC) in our schools – ideals enshrined in the 1944 Education Act.
The report is well worth taking the time to read, with an outline of the history of SMSC education, the details of the investigation and its key findings and, crucially, some design principles and recommendations for a way ahead.
The central premise of the study is that the prevailing culture of measurement and attainment-driven accountability has taken the soul out of schools - an argument which has been well rehearsed in many arenas and which is now fairly widely accepted as being an accurate analysis of current education practice. This relentless drive to raise academic standards has left SMSC in a parlous state, with the sidelining of so-called 'soft' skills of possessing a moral compass, being able to empathise with values different from one's own, and developing resilience and cultural capital. But in the words of American educator Stephen R. Covey, 'We are not human beings on a spiritual journey. We are spiritual beings on a human journey', and we ignore that reality at our peril.
But while the analysis of current practice and the resulting impact is incisive, and while the nine suggested steps informing future developments are cogently presented, the thinking behind this report did present me with some interesting questions on which Christian teachers might usefully ponder. There are two key research foci:
As a Christian, I find puzzling the idea that SMSC education can flow alongside academic education as some sort of significant tributary, rather than forming the current which directs the river itself. Surely it should be embedded in the very DNA of my teaching? Being a Christian teacher isn't about teaching RE well, taking assembly more often or smiling a lot because I have to be nice. It's about how I teach, rather than what I teach. It's about embedding Christian values within whatever subject I am teaching. It's about how I work with colleagues and the model for human flourishing which I offer to my pupils. Of course explicit teaching of SMSC has its place, but in advising teachers 'to reflect on their pedagogical repertoire to exploit SMSC-related "teachable moments"' is to suggest that this is just another bolt-on, rather than the foundation on which we build all that we do.
Another of the findings of the SRA suggests that 'fear of controversy is leading to an unhelpful 'sanitisation' of schools' SMSC provision' – again, I find this puzzling. Galatians 5:22-23 tells us that the fruit of the Holy Spirit (ie the attributes of a Christian) are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self control. These values can't cause controversy, and what's more, as the apostle Paul points out in verse 23 'Against such things there is no law' (NIV 1984). I think this is why faith schools are so successful in creating cohesive communities – they begin with core values and allow them to oxygenate all that they teach.
If, in fear that losing teaching time will impact on standards, you have any doubt about embedding SMSC in the very DNA of what you teach, read the story of Gary Lewis, Head of Kings Langley School. He understands the need to grow pupils holistically and in doing so, the academic standards in the school have risen commensurately.
The message, I think, is that if pupils are told about values, they might listen. If values are aspirationally modelled, pupils may conform within the school community. But when they see values being lived out daily, making a difference to the lives of real people, then there is a possibility of inner growth. There is no greater challenge to Christian teachers today than that. Do you see your pupils as 'spiritual beings on a human journey'? If so, how can you support and encourage them as you accompany them on their journey?
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Browsing Theses by Subject "Vietnam War, 1961-1975--United States--Evaluation"
Now showing items 1-1 of 1
United States Intervention in Vietnam: A Critical Evaluation of Policy and Decisionmaking (Drake University, 1978-05)The United States intervened in South Vietnam in an attempt to prevent formation of a communist state there. The intervention was a failure; the country came under communist control. This thesis describes and analyzes the ...

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Close My Eyes (1991)
Written and Directed by Stephen Poliakoff.
Close My Eyes was made for Film Four in 1991. It was released theatrically and received great critical acclaim, won several awards and ran in the cinema for 8 months. Inspired by one of Poliakoff's early stage successes, Hitting Town, it traces an incestuous relationship between Richard (Clive Owen) and his sister Natalie (Saskia Reeves) during one blistering hot summer. Alan Rickman gives a remarkable performance as Sinclair, Natalie's dominating husband, in this intense story, filmed in strong vivid colours.
The locations in the film move from the lush Home Counties atmosphere where Natalie and Sinclair live, to the rebuilding of Docklands where Richard is working as an environmental activist, to the secretive world of mansion flats in central London. Canary Wharf is seen in the film as a ghost town, shrouded in scaffolding, as it rises on the edge of the Thames.
The film was widely interpreted at the time as a metaphor for the last moments of Margaret Thatcher's reign in England and was filmed in the summer of 1990, one of the hottest of the century.
Among the awards the film won was the Evening Standard Best British Film of the Year Award.


text: Goodbye banjo, hello electric guitars. Mumford & Sons have drastically changed their style of music and surprisingly I have fallen more in love with them. That's why this weeks' song of the week is one off their new album, which dropped yesterday, titled 'The Wolf.' I adore this song from them because its a huge departure from the folk music they played a year ago. This song is filled with drums and electric guitars, that just want to make you jump up and down and rock out.


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WHS class of 2012 graduates June 11
Two of the top four Warwick High School seniors will speak at commencement June 11.
They are Charlie Good, Korey Johnson, Justin Pennypacker and Natalie Weaver.
Graduation for the 357 seniors will be held Monday at Calvary Church in Manheim Township, starting at 6:30 p.m. Baccalaureate will be held June 8, 6:30 p.m., in the high school auditorium.
"This is the first year that Warwick will be using the end of the fourth marking period grades to determine the valedictorian and salutatorian," said Lori Zimmerman, public relations director for the school district. "In the past, the results were determined at the end of the third marking period.
"We have four students who could potentially be the top two," she continued. "They will all be developing speeches, with only the top two actually delivering their speeches at graduation. The third and fourth place students will be notified this Friday (after baccalaureate) that they will not be delivering speeches. The actual valedictorian and salutatorian will be announced at the graduation ceremonies and will be unknown until that night."
Charlie Good
Charlie is the son of Barbara and Marlin Good. He will speak on the theme "Dream Big." He is active in all facets of band, including qualifying for district, regional and all-state ensembles. He was the Science Fair Grand Champion in 10th grade. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA, he is a member of the National Honor Society, the German Honor Society, and Tri-M Music Honor Society.
He has performed community service, mostly of a technical nature, for The Mennonite Church USA Convention, Kairos School of Spiritual Formation and the United Way. He has been employed by Clair Global, Creek Haven Retreat and the PA Association of Milk, Food and Environmental Sanitarians. Charlie will attend Eastern Mennonite University.
Korey Johnson
Korey is the son of Karen and Dan Johnson. He will speak on the theme "Never Give In." He is a member of the German Honor Society and National Honor Society, SAT Club and FBLA
He participated in the Jets Competition and played football, baseball and basketball during his high school career. Korey will attend Lebanon Valley College.
Justin Pennypacker
Justin is the son of Kori and Blaine Pennypacker. He will speak on the theme "Serving Others." He is a member of the National Honor Society, Junior Engineering Technical Society and served as Junior Class President.
He is a member of the Youth Advisory Council of Congressman Joe Pitts, the Knowledge Master Open Academic Competition Team and The Warwick Chess Team. Justin will attend Grove City College.
Natalie Weaver
Natalie is the daughter of Shirley and Jay Weaver. She will speak on the theme "Community." She is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and Tri-M Music Honor Society.
She is active in the concert choir and production companies and participated in Track and Field. She will attend Grove City College. More GRADUATION, page A18


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Last week we featured articles on SEO trust signals, the FCB Grid and seven easy steps to create a web analytics framework.
Miss any of these stories? Keep reading.
The Role of Design in SEO Trust Signals
Lance Padgett, SEO Specialist at Formstack, shares 4 key areas where design and SEO can work together.
The FCB Grid: What It Is and How It Works
Joshua Bains spoke with Creative Director Bruce Bendinger, author of the Copy Workshop Workbook, about the FCB Grid. Learn how it can help your marketing.
7 Easy Steps to Create a Web Analytics Framework and Improve Your Marketing
The best way to measure your digital marketing campaign? By building a web analytics framework in 7 easy steps! Learn more.
Upcoming Webinars
How to Increase Your Website Revenue Using a Data-Driven SEO Campaign
Amel Mehenaoui will join SEMrush on March 4 for a free webinar, "How to Increase Your Website Revenue Using a Data-Driven SEO Campaign."
Find the Words That Stick: Make Your Brand Googleable
Jeremy Miller will join SEMrush on March 5 for a free webinar, "Find the Words That Stick: Make Your Brand Googleable."


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Of course!! We accept orders from everyone! Student organizations, local businesses, your dad's business, NASA. No Campaign is too small and as long as it meets our order minimum of 24 pieces then we're more than happy to get it done for you!
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Born & raised in NJ with the city skyline in his backyard. He was led straight to NYC's legendary dance club "Avalon" (formally the Lime-Light) where Tony was invited to make his NYC debut in 2006. Immediately, this young, self-taught individual began astonishing crowds. Quickly climbing the ladder & giving the people what they want. His style of mixing continues to evolve with the influence from today's recognized DJs/producers.
The past few years have kept Tony extremely busy. Headlining major NJ/NYC clubs, as well as, being invited to play official EMC events in Miami. Florida. From clubs all over the Tristate area, he has catered to the most diverse population of club going crowds. Making him not only one of the most sought-after DJs but a local celebrity in his own right. All while drawing hundreds to the areas biggest name venues.


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Excellence in Digital Transformation
Ralph Rivera - BBC
Ralph was the catalyst for the digital transformation journey that repositioned the BBC as an open public service platform serving the broader creative ecosystem.
His vision, strategy and implementation have driven a culture change in an organisation that primarily saw itself as a programme maker and distributor. Initiatives such as MyBBC now enable the organisation to engage with individuals, create personalised products and develop CRM capabilities. There are now over 6 million active registered users, with real-time analytics informing curation and editorial decisions.
Ralph was instrumental in launching BBC Taster to incubate and distribute new online native formats, and driving digital creativity and coding through the micro:bit distributed to Year 7 students. His input has extended the BBC's overall UK online reach to a peak of 88% – second behind Google and just ahead of Facebook.
Runners up
Jora Gill - The Economist
Jora has delivered a complete overhaul of the customer experience through new CRM, eCommerce, access to digital content and segmented subscription management.
He's led a change of culture to an agile mindset, and an organisational shift built around products not job families.
He's effectively created a start-up culture within an established mainstream organisation, an approach that has significantly cut lead-times for new and better digital products, features and service ideas.
A move to the Cloud – completed in 6 months – has led to greater agility and significantly cut costs, setting budgets free to support new digital ventures.
Mark Dearnley - HMRC
Mark set out the digital vision for HMRC's ambitious transformation plans.
At its heart are digital tax accounts that bring together everything in one place online for customers. Over the past year, Mark has overseen the growth of the business tax account to more than five million users, and the launch of the personal tax account, now serving one and a half million taxpayers. In all, his teams have brought 18 new digital services to life, achieving user satisfaction levels of up to 90%.
Mark has completely changed HMRC's delivery culture, introducing a multi-channel digital model, and championing the use of open source, agile, and DevOps. HMRC now has the biggest digital operation in government, with more than 700 digital specialists in six state-of-the-art digital delivery centres which Mark opened over the last two years.
Andrew Brem - Aviva
Ash Roots - Direct Line Group
Gleb Tritus - Lufthansa Innovation Group
JJ Van Oosten - Rewe
Sean Cornwell - Travelex
Múirne Laffan - RTÉ
Jeff Moriarty - Johnston Press


text: Lime City Development Committee Add to Report The Lime City Development Committee serves as a standing committee/membership association of Huntington County Economic Development, raising awareness of economic development activity in the City of Huntington. The committee takes its name from nickname given to the City of Huntington, "Lime City" for its many limestone quarries and kilns. Annual Membership dues are $30.00. Members meet for lunch every other month on the last Friday of the month at various locations throughout Huntington. Lunch is $10.00 per person in addition to the annual membership fee. Voting members of the governing board Lee Pasko President Tina Bobilya Huntington County Visitor & Convention Bureau Steve Kimmel Huntington Co. Chamber of Commerce John Neiderman At Large Brooks Fetters Mayor, City of Huntington Tom Wall Representing Huntington Co. Commissioners John Wilson At large Rose Wall Committee Vice President & Member At large John Easterday At large Wayne Grisby At large Mike Hartburg At large Dale Hawkins At large Associate members Randy Sizemore Mark Wickersham Megan Greve Brooks Fetters Tom Carnes Leon Hurlburt Rick DeLaney Tom Lund John Mignone Andy Eads Lucas Bectol Nicole Supple Rose Wall Scott Trauner Diana Smith Darlene Stanley Kendall Mickley John Klingenberger Justin Drerup Lisa Smith


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Sheep industry education key at annual convention
DENVER – More than 400 sheep producers, feeders and affiliated businesses from across the nation descended on Las Vegas, NV, for the U.S. sheep industry's annual convention, which ran from Jan. 23-26, 2008. Attendance once again surpassed that of the previous year as multiple sectors of the industry gathered during this annual event.
Joining the membership of the American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) and the National Lamb Feeders Association (NLFA) were the American Lamb Board, American Sheep and Goat Center, Food and Fiber Risk Managers LLC (FFRM), National Livestock Producers Association, Western Range Association, ASI Women, and contestants for the national Make It With Wool competition.
Brandon Willis, legislative assistant on agriculture for Sen. Max Baucus (MT), shared with participants the programs in the next Farm Bill that will affect the sheep industry. Inclusions consist of an increase in the base rate of the wool loan deficiency program, re-authorization of the federal sheep center, new tax credits for companies willing to develop pharmaceutical products for the health of U.S. sheep and a provision allowing livestock grazing for control of invasive species on Conservation Reserve Program ground.
Another important addition in the Farm Bill is the permanent disaster bill, which provides farmers and ranchers with a reliable and dependable program to protect against disasters each year rather than only one in every three years.
"The sheep industry is grateful for Sen. Baucus's leadership with the Farm Bill as the Senate legislation provides programs for sheep farms and ranches of all sizes and geographic locations," said ASI President Burdell Johnson of North Dakota.
Willis complimented the industry by saying, "It is evident by the outcome that this industry worked cooperatively to communicate its needs during the re-writing of this Farm Bill."
The Senate Farm Bill also includes a disease research prioritization related to animal health issues, including infectious diseases of bighorn and domestic sheep under range conditions. Domestic sheep grazing has been seriously impacted by conflicts with bighorns despite the void of scientific findings on disease mechanisms.
The hot topic of bighorns was evident during the convention culminating with a board presentation by Jim Logan, DVM, assistant state veterinarian for Wyoming. Logan led an in-depth discussion of the iss ues surrounding this crucial topic describing the many possible causes contributing to the die-offs in the bighorn population that have been occurring for decades, in many cases without any association with domestic sheep. It has been shown that contributing factors range from bacteria, viruses and parasites carried by numerous wildlife species to predators, stress, weather and habitat.
"We must continue to encourage collaborative efforts in research, surveillance, diagnostics, epidemiology and policy decisions if there is to be a resolution," concluded Logan. "This issue will be resolved using good sound science and working side-by-side with land managers to get to a result everyone can trust."
Wool company officials, Rick Honaker, Entrenos Inc., and Jason Bannowsky, Lempriere USA Inc., shared how wool buying and processing has changed over the last 10 years. According to Bannowsky, the biggest change to the industry in general is that 10 years ago, 75 percent of the U.S. wool clip was being consumed domestically with only 25 percent going to exports. Today, these statistics are reversed – 75 percent of the clip is exported with 25 percent utilized domestically.
In the 1990s, three combing plants consumed nearly 50 million pounds of greasy wool per year and now only one plant remains, using 10 million pounds of greasy wool annually.
Currency fluctuation represents a high risk for wool buyers. The change in rates from the time wool is purchased to when it is sold can be very different. In addition to currency risk for the wool buyer, some changes in sheep production have also led to increased contamination risks for exported wool. Contamination leads to claims against the wool buyer and, due to wool blending at the processor level, a small amount of contamination can result is a huge amount of non-usable wool product, hence costing the buyer far more than the price paid to the grower.
Where polypropylene was the worst contamination in wool, kemp/hair has now moved into that position. As wool buyers, the advice given to growers was never mix hair with a wool clip. Dye-resistant fibers such as these dramatically limit any textile use of the product and make business overseas more difficult. If growers run both wool breeds and hair breeds, keep the animals totally separate to avoid any possibility of cross-over and to assist in building a superior reputation for U.S. wools.
Lamb feeders and processors reported to the organizations during the convention that while lamb supplies are current, the historic high prices for feed and fuel are the number one concern. Costs of gain on lambs due to the run up on all feed supplies combined with fewer acres of pasture and alfalfa as farmers convert to grain crops dealt uncertainty to lamb buyers and feeders this winter. Johnson was pleased to note that reports from feeders showed an increase in fed lambs in South Dakota, attributable to bankers willing to lend money for feeder lambs because the Livestock Risk Protection-Lamb (LRP-Lamb) price insurance was available this fall.
Johnson said, "A goal of securing LRP-Lamb was to increase credit opportunities from financial institutions. It is encouraging to hear our new pilot program is doing exactly that."
The ASI insurance agency, FFRM, and university officials conducted educational presentations during the convention on LRP-Lamb. As the new lambing season began on the West Coast in November and begins in earnest across the Midwest and farm flock areas, it is important that farmers and ranchers become informed on the use of this new risk management tool.
The board of directors re-elected the existing slate of officers to lead the organization for the next year: Burdell Johnson (ND), president; Glen Fisher (TX), vice president; and Margaret Soulen Hinson (ID), secretary/treasurer. Also re-elected to the executive board were DA Harral (TX) representing Region V, Angelo (Butch) Theos (CO) representing Region VI and Tom Watson (OR) representing the lamb feeders.


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Tablet Local
Restaurants at College Park District close
A third restaurant in the College Park District permanently shut its doors within the past few weeks, with the owner saying the development "never materialized."
Digg's Taco Shop was an original tenant in the 22-acre development, which opened in 2012 and includes student housing, restaurants, shops, lofts, garage parking and a state-of-the-art welcome center at the University of Texas at Arlington.
The Dallas-based restaurant served tacos and other Mexican cuisine across the street from the 33,000-plus student campus before closing in late January.
Digg's Taco Shop opened across the street from UT Arlington in December 2012, the same time as the Grapevine-based restaurant Pho Xpress, which closed last month.
Another restaurant in the College Park District, Grip Mediterranean Grill, also closed in December.
"This entire development never materialized," said Joey Milan, Digg's Taco Shop owner and restaurateur. "I've been in restaurant industry for 35 years. I have never closed one in my life."
Milan said his Dallas location is thriving, and he plans to move his UT Arlington restaurant to Southlake in a few months. He is also finishing up the lease agreement for a Digg's Taco Shop in the Lakewood area of Dallas.
Grip's is another restaurant with a thriving Dallas location, but the Adam and Jay Chanaa brothers, who also own Ali Baba and Terra Mediterranean Grill in Fort Worth, had no such luck in a university setting.
The Chanaas closed their Grip locations near UT Arlington and the University of North Texas because there wasn't enough foot traffic for dinner and during the summer and winter, said Natalie Gamez, marketing director for the restaurants.
"It came down to sales," Gamez said. "Realistically, to stay there we needed to do at least three to four times what we were doing."
Milan said Digg's sales were only 50 percent of what they had projected because a lack of density in the area.
"There is no nighttime business. I marketed that place for a year 10 times more than what I've ever done in my life," Milan said.
Gamez said that between making their fresh product affordable for students who might already have meal plans, and keeping up with business during the summer and winter, the fast casual concept struggled.
"To get a student to spend $7-$10 on lunch as opposed to the University Center — that was a big struggle. I think most restaurants around UTA kind of feel the same way, too," she said.
Restaurants including Smiling Moose Deli and Blaze's Sports Grill closed temporarily during the university's winter break but reopened this month.
University spokeswoman Kristin Sullivan said the development of the Arlington Lofts student apartment complex and Sapphire Inspired Living will provide "more of a customer base to support the restaurants."
She pointed out that free parking is available right across the street from the restaurants.
Sullivan said that with more than 21,000 students in summer classes, and fall and spring enrollment exceeding 33,000, the demand is there and will increase as new residential communities are built near downtown Arlington.
The university doesn't have new tenants lined up, but Texas Trust Credit Union will open a branch at the College Park District in the spring.
Milan said the rent is too high, and downtown Arlington does not exist yet.
Gamez said that though UT Arlington is moving away from being a commuter school, it's not there yet.
"I think they just put too many restaurants in the area and really thought people would come to them," Gamez said.


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I have always prided myself on being able to make great things with little resources. While I wouldn't say our workshop has "little resources" necessarily, we definitely have room to grow to be a much more professional working and learning space. Our workshop has evidence of ten years of resources being poured into it: donations and donated tools, products sold, countless hours of prayer, a lot of sweat and a few tears, with triumphs all along the way. ESVO is about to enter into a new season of growth thanks to a new big gift.
Thanks to Whip Industries, Plant-A-Seed Foundation, Renew Church Modesto, and Redeemer Modesto Church, we have a container full of new equipment making its way down to Nicaragua!
This 40-foot container is on a barge filled to the brim with goodies that will transform our program into the training space we need as we grow.
If you're not excited yet, just wait until you hear what has been donated!
Some of the equipment included:
-3 hydraulic lifts for our mechanics program
-A motorcycle lift
-A Rolling Bridge Jack
-A plasma cutter with all the extras
-A new beautiful bandsaw
-A drill press
-Service carts
-A 29 piece drill set
-Enough wrenches, clamps, pliers, blades, sanders, ratchets, and tools to supply us for years to come
-And even more!
Imagine how each of these items will drastically change the quality of work we produce and the quality of time with each student. Our students and apprentices will be able to grow their skills to the next level, giving them more job opportunities throughout Nicaragua. Our teachers will save time and resources, and be able to invest more of themselves into our students.
We are honored to receive such generosity from Whip Industries, Plant-A-Seed Foundation, Renew Church Modesto, and Redeemer Modesto Church. To those involved, thank you! We greatly appreciate your hearts to serve and impact Nicaragua.
We're patiently awaiting the arrival of this container in a few short weeks. Once it arrives, we're excited to share the impact of this new equipment with you in real time!


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Nicole and I attended the Rose Bowl Flea Market a few weekends ago to find some unique pieces for my new home, and just in general, check out what people were selling. This was the first time that I have ever gone to the RBFM and I must say it was a blast!
We got there early and were able to scope out a large chunk of what vendors had to offer in terms of house goods. If you go, get there early! We were able to walk empty aisle and look at pieces closely. We found a TON of awesome chairs, seriously, be ready to see and want to buy almost every chair you see- I am considering getting rid of the couches in my house and replacing them with all the awesome chairs we saw! (lol, not really, but it was a thought).
Overall, the day was awesome, I picked up the zebra stool you see in the photos, the 'SR' letters, the sunglasses I am wearing in one of the photos, a dress, and a new bag that I will use as my camera bag!
These photos were taken on my iPhone 5s and edited with the VSCO ap.


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I know I'm not the only person trying to make sense of the past year today.
I know that my efforts to rehash or interpret the simultaneous panicked haste and glacial slowness of the past 365 days will seem trite and contrived by any comparison.
I know that there is no reasonable adjective and no concise term for what this year has been, has meant, has proven.
We truly now know what it is to be fully human, to truly have existed in this time. To be wholly flawed and decimated and demoralized, and to have woken back up anyway. To have looked our neighbor in the eye, ourselves in the mirror, and seen things we never thought we would, and to have to go on anyway. There is no way to rewind from this raw and painful reality we have all found, in each other and in ourselves, and no way to go back to the illusion that our past, present, and future could be separated by the privilege of time served. There is no golden thread to suture this fresh and still-beating truth or to lead us out of this maze we've foolishly wandered into. We have seen our whole selves. We have seen the worst we have to offer, with heavy-handed mercilessness.
But we have seen something else, too. In our clamoring desperation, we have seen the truest, purest, most infallible goodness. In a year when everything blared with irreverent audacity, the good was often quiet, and while shock loomed large, the sweetness was often small. But it was always there, in the door held open, the nod of solidarity; the gratitude for each fragment of relief and the resolve to pass that relief on, to lessen the burden of another.
As long as we can cling to that resolve tomorrow, the next day, and throughout the second year of this unprecedented, unknowable wilderness, we will prove that we are not the victims of our own shadows, our own darkest parts. We will prove that we will not succumb to our blistering hatreds and scorched divides. We will be defiantly good.
I know that I have truly felt every fractal in the prism of human emotion. Deep, dejected defeat, chronic bewilderment, days spent in melancholy sonder and moments of pure and rapturous joy, top-heavy burdens and sudden, fleeting relief chased me home to the haven of my bed each night, where I deflated, sometimes fulfilled, often tear-stained, always exhausted.
At midnight, I won't leave this year behind. But, like a worn-out coat, I'll take off its burden and hang it beside its predecessors, to look at but never again to touch, and to occasionally find something of value, something I've lost, in the pockets.


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Sunrise Buick GMC Inc
1800 Covington Pike, Memphis, TN 38128
(901) 410-5902
(901) 410-5902
|Mon - Sat:
TollFree: (866) 979-3457
TollFree: (866) 979-3457
Sunrise Buick GMC Truck
GMC dealer Memphis, Memphis Buick, Memphis Chevrolet dealer, Memphis GMC
Warranties: Yes
Parking: Lot
Services: Tires, Wheels & Alignments, Automotive Accessories, Brake Service, Battery Services, Oil Changes
Parts Available: Yes
Appointment Needed: Yes
Brands Serviced: GMC, Buick, Chevrolet
Sunrise on Covington Pike is a great place to buy a vehicle and have one repaired
07/28/2011Provided by Citysearch -
Bought certified used car and they had a clear car fax. Found out had damage to car and dealership gave me the run around. Called an made appointment for on star problems and general service. I asked if I could get a vehicle to drive or a ride to work and the lady in service said that wouldn't be a problem. Got to dealership and service very rude and told me that he couldn't give me a ride or a vehicle. Told me to go to West Memphis dealership if I needed a ride to work for needed repairs!!! DON""T BUY FROM THEM!!!!!!!
03/07/2011Provided by Citysearch -
I recently purchased my new Terrain from Sunrise Covington Pike, and I must say I was very pleased with the entire process. The salesman explained everything in detail, no pressure and no hassles. He introduced me to the service manager and explained how, and where to get my Terrain serviced, and the hours of operation. Being a woman, I was concerned about how I would be treated. I'm happy to say I was treated with the upmost respect by everyone involved. There were several dealerships I could have purchased my Terrain from, but as I pulled away in my new Terrain I felt totally satisfied knowing I had selected the right vehicle and the right dealership. I would highly recommend this dealership to anyone (especially a woman) purchasing a new, or used vehicle.
03/04/2011Provided by Citysearch -
The sales staff at Sunrise is highly professional. They spend a lot of time explaining features and benefits. The service Department is extremely professional.
12/13/2010Provided by Citysearch -
The salesman told my father and his friend. F*** you, go back to Albania, you sorry f***!"" After I said I was going to contact the owner of the dealership, the salesman said, "I don't give a F***, I go hunting with the owner!"
06/30/2009Provided by Citysearch -
I bought a brand new Pontiac G6 2009 basic and wanted to add fog lights and cruise control on it. They said ok we'll take care of it,paid $700+. I wanted them to do it because I wanted the original one but they took the car to a small shop to get it done. I left the car at the dealer and picked it up from the same place after 6 hours and I'm shocked. There is a switch button attached to front panel and a cruise control attached to steering wheel. They cut the lower grill to fit the fog lights in it and you can see the cables from outside. I didn't want to say anything since it was done but fog lights broke down in 2 weeks and they took me to that small shop to fix it, I just noticed at that time they took the car here at the first place to put the fog lights and cruise control on it but they didn't tell me. It has been 3 months now and fog light burned out 3 times. Cruise control is working sometimes and sometimes you need to push a few times to get it work and stop. Called the customer service and they sent me to GM Goodwrench at Sunrise. It took 2 days (total 20hrs) to change the lower grill and couldn't fix anything else. If you want GM, go somewhere else...


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Mohamed Al Braik
Mr. Mohamed holds a BSc degree in Petroleum Geology from the United Arab Emirates University (AL-Ain). In 2005, he started his career with Schlumberger as a Log Analyst where he had a wide exposure to most types of logs acquired in the Middle East Carbonates (onshore and offshore). After 3 years with Schlumberger, he joined Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Company (ADMA-OPCO) as a Petrophysicist working on different offshore green fields. Currently, Mohamed is the main Petrophysicist of Umm Lulu Field which recently started production.


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First of all, WHHHHAAAAA! SPX IS OVER. And it was too short and way too much fun and I met all the good people and all the old friends. Everyone talks about how overwhelming the show is so I'll try not to beat a dead horse, but I came away from the show with a host of regrets: people I failed to reconnect with, books I failed to buy, trades that were not traded, drinks that were not drunk. BUT I also believe in everything in due time and there is only so much of that. The people I did meet, the books I managed to get my paws on: It was all meant to be. Andrea Tsurumi's Why Would You Do That? was the only book I planned on buying and I was not disappointed. It is so good: funny and dark, whimsical and true. In terms of aesthetics and tone it is almost as if Gary Larson cross pollinated with Shel Silverstein, but then again it is entirely her own and I loved every bit of it.
Here is me eating breakfast with my official "SPX Comix Haul." Confession: this is staged. This is actually my husband's breakfast. I ate too many ribs last night so I could only handle coffee. AND while the coffee is mine, I don't drink it black. I just put it there for show. I had to take it back into the kitchen to add milk and sugar. My coffee tastes like a milkshake. Anyways, included in my haul is The Ultimate Laugh because I discovered Sara Lautman at SPX. And by discovered I mean we sat next to each other and I became slowly aware that not only was she an Ignatz nominee but also insanely talented, funny, prolific, learned, and wise. Don't worry, I totally kept my cool and now have to buy all her comics because I ate all of The Ultimate Laugh and I need more. Also seen here is Meghan Turbitt's hilarious SELF, the harrowing and hopeful Flocks by L. Nichols, the ingenious The Film Empire Records From Memory by Cyn Why, and the deeply moving Wallpaper by Whit Taylor. Not pictured: A true regret. I forgot to get a copy of the new 3:00 Book from Beth Heiny. So that sucked.
There are more people and more comics than I can list here but ... what's that? You want to know about my book? Well, I have finally updated my Etsy and Store Envy shops with the new book, Over Ripe. It is a collection of short comics and the cover might be misleading. It's a sloppy gooey mess on the outside and fuzzy textured thing on the inside. Like an inverted puppy.
I also made these cute "hand bags" (get it) inspired by the hamsa. It's all part of this hand project I am working on and there will be more bags and stuff so if this design doesn't do it for you check in later.


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I really couldn't find anything, so I took him down to the indoor and put him on the longe for around ten minutes. His only "off" step was switching behind while cantering to the right, but it was because he was trying to chase Darcy and canter on a circle at the same time and he almost fell over. Not only is he sometimes a tool, but he's also sometimes just plain dumb.
|"I iz a smart horsie. Yes I iz."
He really liked the area along his crest, and of course the area where his neck injury was, and he was surprisingly willing to let me rub his girth area. Usually that gets me within inches of being bitten. He must like his new elastic dressage girth. As for his bum, it took me forever but he finally had loose, jiggly muscles. He was so super tight back there. No wonder he didn't want to jump. I've upped my workout and I don't even feeling like moving let alone piggy backing someone up and down hills and over jumps. He was far less interested with any neck work on the right side, choosing instead to show me all his stretching poses and trying to pull my coat off. "Carrots live in your pocket! I need them now!"
Another longe and he looked fab. Light on his toes, a bouncy walk and trot, and a topline that wiggled as he went. I let him graze for twenty minutes as grass has exploded this week and all the poor, starving ponies have been locked into their sacrifice areas. Poor, poor ponies.
So I'm hoping that between the bute, the time off, the massage, and the much underrated bonding time, I'll have a happy, willing horse on Sunday. Let's make this a better schooling than last year's April go-round, Robert!


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Upcoming Events
Host Your Own Fundraiser
Over the years, Al's Angels has been blessed because of the incredible work of so many volunteers, organizations and companies that have held fundraisers to support our organization. Retailers, manufacturers, service companies, schools & civic groups have held : Penny Challenges, Special Shopping Nights, Sales, Concerts, Dance Shows & more to benefit the work of Al's Angels. We are open to all ideas and would love to discuss ways in which you, your family, organization, school or company can craft a fundraiser to support Al's Angels. If you would like to help, please fill out the contact form.
Family & Kids
Al's Angels is always in need of volunteers. Families working together, side by side with their kids, instill a deep sense of selflessness and compassion. Whether it's wrapping a gift, assembling a holiday basket, filling a food bin for a family at Thanksgiving or hosting a fundraiser, we can never have too many volunteers. Please fill out form below to volunteer.
Angels in Action
Angels in Action Members of Al's Angels are active all year long performing acts of kindness and love to those in need. It is in this area that we pay tribute to so many people and families that have stepped up to help and serve as examples to others on how to live a life of service. May God Bless each of these people and the work that they do.
In order to achieve our yearly goals, Al's Angels needs a large number of volunteers to host lemonade stands, toy drives and packing and loading holiday meal bins for Thanksgiving, Christmas & Hanukkah. The work of Al's Angels demands that we have great people doing their best work to help those in need. We always need more Angels, since there is always something to do. There may be ways in which we can use your "elbow grease" and other talents to move forward with our mission. All that we ask is that you come to this mission with a pure heart and respect for the children and families that we serve. What makes Al's Angels so special is the dedication and reverence around all our efforts. Whether you are young or not-so-young, we can use your help. Please to be on our volunteer/donor database. You will receive our emails and notifications about upcoming events that can use your support. Thanks for being an Angel.
Donate Today
Al's Angels is able to provide holiday meals, gifts & toys to thousands of children and families battling cancer, rare blood disease and severe financial hardship thru the amazing generosity of our donors and volunteers. You can rest assured that 100% of the donations that we receive go directly to providing holiday joy and gifts to those in desperate need. Al's Angels has no paid employees. We are a 501(C)3 charity and have built a virtual organization of thousands of volunteers who work very hard all year long so that we can achieve our goals and objectives. Your dollars and donations bring hope and joy to many children in desperate need.
Special Thanks To...
There is a growing group of children, adults, organizations that are hosting their own Al's Angels fundraisers and we want to acknowledge them and thank them.
How Can You Help?
Al's Angels always needs more Angels. You can help by spreading the word to your friends, family & business colleagues about the mission of our organization. We continue to work with many hospitals, clinics, and groups that provide aid and support to children in desperate need. Any help that you can provide in alerting us to grants available and/or organizations that are interested in supporting our efforts, would be greatly appreciated. We have numerous volunteer events throughout the year. Please sign up to be an Angel.
Calling all Amazon Shoppers!
How would you like to still be able to shop on Amazon at the same great prices, (yes, even Amazon Prime members) and have a small amount of the proceeds go to help Al's Angels' mission of helping poor, sick and underprivileged children and families in need? Too good to be true? Not at all!
Introducing AmazonSmile! AmazonSmile is the same Amazon you know. Even if you already are an Amazon Prime Member, it's the same products, same prices, same service. And it will donate 0.5% of the price of most purchases to the charitable organization of your choice (we hope Al's Angels! ☺)


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On Wednesday 11th August at 12.30 pm banned company director Steve Crow and Miss Erotica 2010 will be heading a parade of scorpion tanks, motorcycles with bare-breasted pillions and vehicles down Queen Street Auckland – in order to promote Crow's failing hardcore pornography empire. Eden Digital Ltd directed by John Malcolm Carr, a San Antonio Texas based CPA, is the business entity linked to the parade of tawdry titillation that promotes a forthcoming three day event – Erotica Lifestyles Expo – featuring a collection of imported US-based porn stars, sex toys and lewd acts. On Thursday 12th August at 12.30 pm the same boringly predictable parade will head through Hamilton city streets.
Steve Crow is intending to hand out $250,000 worth of free vouchers to those attending the porn parades, so they can purchase hard core pornography DVDs marketed by his failing business Vixen Direct. [Read more…]


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Volcanic Ash Clouds Europe's Skies
With the start of a new week the issues that have been made by the volcanic eruptions in Reykjavik, Iceland still burn on. With the skies now a serious risk for any passenger plane throughout the most of Europe delays are affecting practically everybody. Holidaymakers can't make it abroad or back home, business are being held up and airline themselves are losing millions everyday as a result, in fact the only winner in this whole predicament is the environment.
The volcanic ash cloud has spread far and wide hitting the Mediterranean Coasts and shores of Russia all the way from the Arctic Circle. While flights are cancelled for the foreseeable there are still plenty of people trapped on foreign soil without a way of getting home, enter the government and their plans to rescue stranded UK nationals. Gordon Brown plans to use Royal Navy ships to transport the UK holidaymakers from destinations around Europe back home.
The footballing world is also suffering in this crisis as the semi-final Champions League tie between Barcelona and Inter Milan is set to take place Tuesday evening but the Barcelona team has to travel by coach to the San Siro stadium covering a distance of around 985km.
British soldiers expecting to return home have had to be delayed also as many troops leaving Afghanistan made their way to Cyprus only to find out they would have to sit tight, although the forces have been making special effort to see them home.
The pockets of airline owners will be hit dramatically as a result of this natural disaster as with around £130 million lost every day. Airlines like British Airways have been losing £25 million and EasyJet £5 million.


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Blanca Lake - Washington/
Trail Distance: 12.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,300 ft
Terrain Rating: Moderate
Hike In: 10:23AM
Hike Out: 5:15PM
Trailhead: Blanca Lake Trailhead, about 1.5-2 hours from downtown Seattle.
Blanca Lake was my favorite Seattle hike of the summer. The photos look like something out of Banff, but it's actually only 1.5 hours from Seattle! You don't have to travel too far to see the beautiful aqua colors of this lake.
Due to a washout, this hike is now 13 miles instead of the usual 9 miles. The first two miles are along a wide, flat road until you reach the "actual" trailhead. The washout is really bad for the last 0.4 miles or so. I don't see this changing any time soon as WTA looks to clean it up!
Once you reach the actual trailhead, the elevation gain begins slowly for the first half mile or so. From there, the switchbacks begin. The trail is completely shaded for the switchback portion. The roots here can be tricky, so watch your step - especially if it has recently rained.
Your next 3 miles will be all switchbacks. The elevation is steep and you might find your muscles tightening. I was never truly out of breath, but I definitely felt my legs working. This is a great workout!
Once the trees open up, you know you're done with the heavy elevation portion. The trail climbs slowly now through ridge lines and dramatic views of nearby mountains. Soon you will reach Virgin Lake, a muddy and otherwise uninteresting body of water. From there, it is another mile or so until Blanca Lake.
The trail descends about 700 feet through narrow paths of roots and rocks. The opening to Blanca Lake is quite sudden and dramatic. We were all blown away when all of a sudden we saw the turquoise waters open in front of us. We arrived at Blanca Lake at 1:11PM, 2 hrs and 45 minutes after we started hiking.
We had lunch here for a little over an hour. The bugs weren't too bad - 1 or 2 bees. Some hikers went in for a dip. And this reminds me - I should bring an inflatable kayak next time. After enjoying the views and soaking in some sun, we headed back for our car.
I can't recommend this hike enough. Be sure to start early! As we were almost at the trailhead, we saw some people -just- starting the hike, and in white jeans nonetheless. Come on a weekday if you can take the vacation days. The serenity is worth it.
Gear Specs:
- 4L of water
- 3 bars, a sandwich, and Nuun tabs
- Hiking poles (recommended to save your knees on the steep descent)
- Nike sneakers
- Osprey Pack
- Extra clothes packed away: extra socks, hat, rain jacket
- Emergency Gear: Map & GPS, Headlamp, reduced First-Aid Kit, Swiss Army Knife, hand/feet warmers
More photos:


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Small businesses struggle to get financing from banks
When Jill Holmes was looking for financing to transform the former KFC building in the Fountain District into a bistro last year, she believed she had the credit history and a good business plan to get loan approval.
Banks were interested at first; one decided to finance the remodel. However, this was a time of worsening economic conditions and the bank backed out of the project before giving formal approval, Holmes said.
"We had to scramble to find other financing, which was very difficult because of the economic climate," said Holmes, who also owned the building.
She was eventually able to get financing through North Coast Credit Union, as well as some funding through the Small Business Administration. She opened The Fountain Coffee & Wine Bistro earlier this month, and in the first few weeks sales have exceeded expectations.
The struggles with getting financing for commercial projects is not new; businesses across the country have been struggling to get access to credit since the financial meltdown in the fall of 2008. As banks, particularly community financial institutions, continue to struggling with loan portfolios, the expectation is this economic climate will remain in place throughout much of 2010.
Read the complete story at bellinghamherald.com


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Edwardian Gibson Girl Celluloid Hair Comb
What a pretty thing! This celluloid hair comb dates from the 1910s when women grew their hair long and piled it on top of their heads in the famed "Gibson girl" style. A comb like this one is just the decorative tool they needed to keep their hairstyle in place. This particular comb is in a pale, translucent butterscotch color with ethereal little green flowers painted along the uppermost border. The row of flowers undulate in a naturalistic way and are enhanced with citrine and emerald colored rhinestones. This type of comb is perfectly suited for a wedding up-do or is a chic way to improve your bohemian messy bun! The teeth are approximately 3" long and span 1-3/8" wide. The angled decorative portion is 1-1/2" high on the short side and 3" high on the tall side. The flower border spans approximately 5-1/4". This comb is in excellent condition with no breaks or cracks in the celluloid and no paint loss whatsoever. This is a beautiful antique object that is 100% wearable! A real beauty!


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There are many reasons for measuring LAN speed; one of them is when there's a central server, like in LTSP, and the network speed is mixed, i.e. the server ⇔ switch connection is 1 Gbits/sec, while at least some of the clients connect to the switch with 100 Mbits/sec connections. In that case, the flow control issue might reduce the server ⇔ switch connection to 100 Mbits/sec as well!
To benchmark your LAN with Epoptes, first verify that you have iperf installed in both your server and your clients.
Second, open a terminal on your server, and run:
iperf -s -xS
"-s" means to run in server mode, and "-xS" to exclude the Settings report, in order to have less output.
Third, from the Epoptes UI, select all the clients, and press the Execute command button in the toorbar. Use this command:
sudo iperf -c server -r
"-c server" means to run in client mode and to connect to "server", the special DNS name that LTSP clients know their LTSP server as. If you're not using LTSP, put your server IP there instead.
"-r" means to do a bidirectional test individually. So, two parts of output will be shown; the first one will correspond to data transferred from the clients to the server (94.0 and 93.9 in the example below). We usually don't care about that part, but for the next part, which shows data transferred from the server to the clients (92.6 and 62.5 in the example below). For optimal LTSP experience, ensure that all numbers in the second part are > 50 Mbits/sec, and that their sum is > 500 Mbits/sec.
Sample output for two clients:
$ iperf -s -xS
[ 4] local 10.160.200.11 port 5001 connected with 10.160.200.242 port 32833
[ 5] local 10.160.200.11 port 5001 connected with 10.160.200.155 port 43712
[ ID] Interval Transfer Bandwidth
[ 4] 0.0-10.0 sec 112 MBytes 94.0 Mbits/sec
[ 5] 0.0-10.0 sec 112 MBytes 93.9 Mbits/sec
[ 4] local 10.160.200.11 port 48337 connected with 10.160.200.242 port 5001
[ 5] local 10.160.200.11 port 45048 connected with 10.160.200.155 port 5001
[ 5] 0.0-10.0 sec 110 MBytes 92.6 Mbits/sec
[ 4] 0.0-10.0 sec 74.8 MBytes 62.5 Mbits/sec
Documentation >


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These are Mad World and Forgotten, both shown in natural light. Forgotten is one of my "artifact" paintings, which I realized this week is how I refer to them.
We had an insane heat wave last weekend and I was able to work double-time for days. Sometimes the paint dried faster than I could paint it.
Unfortunately, the temperature has dropped 30 degrees in 2 days.
More on the way soon!


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Is it weird that there are certain people (a few of whom I've never met) whose opinions I value so highly that I Facebook stalk my own posts to make sure they specifically "liked" them so I can do a happy dance? And it's so much now the worse with the "love" option. The bar has been raised on my happy dance.
Okay, if not weird, it must at least be lame.


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HD Pentax-D FA 28-105mm Review Posted
A versatile, compact, high-performance zoom
By PF Staff in Review Announcements on Jul 28, 2016
We are happy to finally kick off our series of in-depth reviews of the D FA full-frame zoom lenses launched alongside the Pentax K-1! In this first installment, we take a close look at the HD Pentax-D FA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 ED DC WR. Expect us to cover the remaining lenses in the coming months.
This ultra-portable lens costs just $446 (in the US) and covers a convenient range of commonly-used focal lengths. It's also packed with the latest Pentax lens technologies, including the HD coating, silent DC autofocus, and weather sealing. But how does it fare in the field when it comes to image quality? Is it a consumer-grade lens, or does it stack up against its more expensive rivals? Read on to find out:
HD Pentax-D FA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 Review
More from the Pentax Forums Homepage
28-105, 28-105mm, d fa 28-105mm, full frame, hd pentax d-fa 28-105mm, k-1, lens, pentax k-1, review


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carried out under ACE Corp Sec Pte Ltd
We have a dedicated team that provides corporate secretarial services for both private limited companies as well as public listed companies. The corporate secretarial services for private limited companies are carried out under our company, ACE CorpSec Pte Ltd. We have a team of experienced corporate secretarial executives who are supported by the lawyers in Aquinas Law Alliance LLP to provide clients with timely and effective service and advice on their corporate secretarial and compliance matters. We currently have a portfolio of core international clients as well as local SMEs where we are providing corporate secretarial nominee directorship services and registered office servicer. We are known for our corporate administration, project and transactional services to companies and branch offices, and for our advisory work on corporate governance and compliance.
The listed company corporate secretarial and compliance work is undertaken by our lawyers in the Corporate Practice. We currently are providing such services to several listed companies listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange.
We also provide corporate secretarial services and compliance advice to charities, VWOs associations and other not for profit organisations. Some of these services we provide on a pro-bono basis as part of our corporate social responsibility initiative.
We work closely with other professionals like accountants, auditors, book keepers, tax consultants to support our clients in this area of practice and would be happy to recommend our clients to their services.


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Lassa Impetus Revo
The Impetus Revo is a summer tyre from Lassa which is part of their high-comport range. Awarded the globally recognised TÜV SÜD certification, the tyre also receives positive, impartial ratings across review websites.
Designed, and manufactured, for use on all vehicles. Also fitted on saloons and campervans, it offers a wealth of benefits at a competitive mid-range price point.
The Lassa Impetus Revo has a unique tread pattern which minimises the risk of aquaplaning. The tread drains more water when it connects to wet ground, to enable high levels of durability during the life of the tyre.
The tyre's unique tread design is also a major selling point. The increased performance and good looks will mean that even a soggy English summer shouldn't put a dampener on your driving experience.
As with the entire Lassa Tyres range, it is owned by the Turkish manufacturing giant Brisa and is part of the Bridgestone stable, it enjoys the trickle-down benefits of the R&D which also goes into making their premium brand, but with a much lower price tag.
Lassa Impetus Revo features
- Quiet ride due to special simulation programme which reduces tyre related noise levels.
- Driver confidence thanks to short stopping distances on all road conditions.
- Enhanced control on wet roads which is courtesy of an optimised tread pattern designed to minimises the risk of aquaplaning.
Impetous Revo Tyre Test Video
Lassa Impetus Revo tyre sizes
The Impetus Revo is available in a wide range of sizes, including:
14″ available in – 175/65 R14, 185/55 R14, 185/60 R14, 185/60 R14 and 185/65 R14.
15″ – 185/55 R15, 185/60 R15, 185/60 R15, 185/65 R15, 185/65 R15, 185/65 R15, 195/50 R15, 195/55 R15, 195/60 R15, 195/60 R15, 195/65 R15, 195/65 R15, 205/50 R15, 205/50 R15, 205/55 R15, 205/55 R15, 205/60 R15, 205/60 R15, 205/65 R15, 205/65 R15, 205/65 R15, 215/65 R15, 215/65 R15 and 225/60 R15.
16″ – 205/50 R16, 205/50 R16, 205/55 R16, 205/55 R16, 205/55 R16, 205/60 R16, 205/60 R16, 195/55 R16, 215/55 R16, 215/55 R16, 215/60 R16, 215/60 R16, 225/55 R16, 225/55 R16, 225/55 R16, 225/60 R16, 225/60 R16, 205/55 R16 and 215/55 R16.
and 17″ raduis in – 205/50R17, 215/50R17, 225/45R17, 205/55R17, 215/45R17, 215/55R17, 225/55R17 and 235/45R17.
More information
More information can be found about the Impetous Revo here, on the official Lassa website


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Chapter 106: Domestic Animal
The dark-haired child under Yue Zhong struggled after hearing the words of the eight mad survivors. But no matter how hard he struggled, he couldn't shake of Yue Zhong.
As soon as she heard the insane words of the eight men, Guo Yu's eyes flashed with fear, and she tightly grabbed onto Yue Zhong's arm. She already knew the cruelty and madness in men's hearts after Z-Age, especially since she had been captured in Always Bright Village. But eating people, this type of madness greatly exceeded her psychological limit. Guo Yu never thought she and Yue Zhong would run into this type of insane survivors, and her heart began to shiver with fear.
"Follow!" Yue Zhong said to Guo Yu in a low voice, after waiting until those eight insane survivors left.
Yue Zhong carried the dark-haired child, completely restricting him he said: "Calm down. We aren't their partners."
Hearing Yue Zhong's words, the fury in the small child's eyes settled down a little bit, and he no longer struggled.
"Right here!" The male survivor pointed at a small mountain cave and ferociously smiled.
Hearing footsteps, a small nine year old girl poked her head out of the cave and took a look. Her face suddenly changed. Like a bird startled by the mere twang of a bow, she retreated back in to the cave.
The eyes of them men flashed with a color of ferociousness upon seeing the nine year old girl. Licking their lips, one strangely smiled: "It's a girl! This time we can have a little pleasure!"
The eight men rushed into the mountain cave. They grabbed the young girl and two other small boys, and brought them out.
The three children sat shivering on the ground. One of the male survivor's eyes flashed with a maddening light and said: "Three fat little sheep. There's also a girl. This time we can have a little fun!"
Yue Zhong quietly looked at the eight men. The small child at his side flashed with dread, ready at any moment to rush towards the three children.
But the young child couldn't budge under the pressure of Yue Zhong.
The dark-haired child stared, eyes filling with rage at Yue Zhong. Yet Yue Zhong didn't have any movement.
The survivor who had the stature of a leader with a ruthless look said in a commanding voice: "We are leaving! There will be trouble if the dark-haired sheep returns.
The remaining survivors nodded. They detained the three crying children and took them in the direction of Stone Horse Village.
Yue Zhong quietly snuck behind the eight survivors, following them along the way.
The eight men arrived at a tent on the outskirts of Stone Horse Village. There was a large pot set up outside the tent. Some bones were also discarded next to the tent. The absolutely horrifying thing is that among those bones were three human skulls.
A survivor looked at the small girl, and his eyes flashed with a lewd light. He took off his pants in front of everyone: "Fuck! Big brother! Hurry up! let everyone first have a little fun!"
"Good!" The leading ruthless survivor's eyes flashed with lewdness. His hand extended towards the young girl to grab her.
Looking at the ferocious survivor, the little girl's eyes flashed with dread and hopelessness, and she struggled to retreat away.
The ruthless looking survivor creepily smiled. The struggling of the little girl gave him even more pleasure. He extended a hand and grabbed onto the little girl's shoulder.
As soon as the man's hand touched the girls shoulder, a gunshot sounded off. A bullet easily passed through that man's skull.
The ruthless leader immediately fell powerless to the ground.
"We have enemies!!"
The seven leftover survivors immediately looked astonished, one by one seeking cover.
Yue Zhong's face became ice cold. He strode out of the underbrush, type 79 assault rifle in hand, and he spread fire at the seven mad survivors.
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After emptying the clip, three of the men were filled with bloody holes. The remaining four survivors fled into the darkness of night.
A cold light flashed in Yue Zhong's eyes. He swapped the clip and commanded to White Bones at the same time: "Kill them!"
The ever-present White Bones shot like an arrow, rushing towards the remaining four men.
Yue Zhong could still see objects for thousand meters in the darkness of night. He held the gun and took large strides, spreading fire. Another two men were shot down by his gunfire.
White Bones zoomed after the few remaining men at the speed of three times a normal person. Each step cut down the distance between the two by a huge amount. After a few steps, he appeared among a survivor. Waving his axe, he brought a whirlwind that sent his head flying, blood splattering everywhere.
The remaining man's face had great changes seeing the cruel end of his partners. He hated himself for not being faster.
White Bone's image flashed. It rushed behind the man in a few steps. The axe waved, sending the last man's head flying.
"Don't kill me!!……Don't kill me!!" Yue Zhong looked at the men who had been shot to the ground. A Few of them still hadn't died yet. They struggled toward Yue Zhong, begging.
"Go die!" Yue Zhong's eyes flashed ice cold as he walked before the remaining survivors. He placed a bullet in each of their heads.
Yue Zhong was extremely lacking in manpower, but he didn't need these kinds of lowlifes who had already forfeited their humanity.
Finishing off the wicked men, Yue Zhong walked over to the three small children.
The three children looked at Yue Zhong, and their eyes revealed a trace of fear. They couldn't help but huddle up and retreat back several steps. The survivor's who had lost their humanity had cast a psychological shadow on them. Even though Yue Zhong saved them, they still feared Yue Zhong.
Looking at the three children, Yue Zhong's brows wrinkled. He grabbed three pieces of chocolate from his pocket and tossed it to them. Yue simply said: "Eat! I'm not a bad person. Eat up and follow me."
Seeing the three pieces of chocolate on the ground, their eyes released a light. They quickly snatched the chocolate, then they peeled the wrapper and began eating.
The small girl mustered up some courage. Holding on the the remaining half of her chocolate, she walked over to Yue Zhong and asked: "Uncle! Can you release Yao Yao?
"Yao Yao? She is a girl? Yue Zhong turned his head and looked at the child with short dark hair. He originally believed this fierce little monster was a boy. He never thought this fierce little monster who had the speed of an S1 is a girl.
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text:
Today, just this. Time to clean out the cobwebs, wipe away the gunk and get a fresh start. Time to make a new plan. Time to breathe crisp air. Time to let the light in. Time to eat well and sleep well. Time to be open to possibility. Time to be thankful.
source: chris tubbs


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Latest insights from our experts
Christmas Parties – The Danger of the Season of Goodwill
As many offices are finalising their plans for a Christmas party, an interesting article provides details that 39% of workers are likely to be drunk or involved in some kind of sexual behaviour at their Christmas office party. HR and IT departments are mentioned as being amongst the worst offenders.
Christmas parties are events to be enjoyed and can be a great boost to staff moral but be aware of the potential dangers that may exist and arise out of such an event, for example, possible sexual harassment claims, drunk fuelled arguments and discrimination. An employee's poor behaviour at an office party may come back to haunt them in the New Year.
Employers are responsible for the protection and safety of their employees even at office parties and are obliged to take disciplinary action where necessary.
Enjoy yourselves but be aware of the perils.
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Request a call back or ask us a question using our quick-contact form.
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Destination Management Company
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Curtis-Straus NRTL/SCC Mark
Market Access to North America
Business Challenge
Products come and go, but manufacturers and retailers must sell safe products. The brand image and reputation a merchant has carefully nurtured for years can be tainted in an instant if their product suffers a major recall or a liability for injury suit. One incident can wipe out previous efforts in a single loss. Access to the lucrative North American market is a must for most manufacturers of electrical or electronic products. To access this market, certification is required for the U.S. and Canada.
What is safety certification for USA / Canada?
There are several third-party organizations that are recognized as having the capability to provide product safety testing and certification services to manufacturers for a wide range of products in North America. They are represented in the U.S. by Nationally Recognized Test Laboratories (NRTLs) and recognized by the government agency OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration). In Canada, they are represented by Testing Organizations/ Certification Bodies recognized by SCC (Standards Council of Canada). The testing and certifications handled by these bodies are based on product safety standards developed by U.S. or Canadian-based standards development organizations such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
Bureau Veritas provides the necessary tools to meet certification requirements with an enhanced process. Our Curtis-Straus laboratory (http://www.curtis-straus.com/) is an approved NRTL listed on the OSHA website (www.osha.gov/) and in Canada as listed on the SCC website (www.scc.ca/). Its employees are skilled in handling all aspects of testing, report writing, final reports, certification, initial plant inspections and follow-up service. This allows us to provide rapid turnaround, resulting in a shorter time to market and ultimately less expense. We can also provide you with the added convenience of arranging a transfer of existing Certifications.
What are the key benefits?
• Gain access to the U.S. retail market through NRTL/SCC certification
• Demonstrate compliance with requirements to U.S. retailers
• Combine the Curtis-Straus NRTL/SCC Mark with other certifications such as CB Scheme,CE marking, CCC, and GOSTR, to further reduce time and costs
Bureau Veritas (Curtis-Straus LLC) is "one of the approved" safety agency labs for a large number of retailers. Click to view the most recent list of retailers that accept the Curtis-Straus NRTL mark.
Why Choose Bureau Veritas?
Reputation Founded in 1828, Bureau Veritas is a leading global quality assurance provider with more than 46,000 employees operating out of 900 offices and laboratories in over 140 countries.
Worldwide Locations With dedicated and experienced test and approvals engineers and inspectors in every major sourcing area worldwide, Bureau Veritas offers you the convenience of global coverage with local service where you need it.
Technical Knowledge and Time-to-Market Bureau Veritas knows that getting your product through the certification process on time and within budget is a critical part of your product launch goals. With knowledgeable approvals engineers in the U.S., Asia and Europe, and safety inspectors worldwide, we can partner with you to help achieve your product release goals. We also offer a turnaround time of five days from the receipt of an acceptable application.
Personal Personalized Service Bureau Veritas recognizes the value that certification can bring. As such, we offer customized and specialized services to meet your safety compliance needs throughout your supply chain. If asked to intervene at an early stage, we can offer suggestions to enhance the product's approval success without sacrificing innovation or creativity.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the Curtis-Straus NRTL/SCC Mark and other NRTL Marks?
There is no essential difference between the marks. All the bodies that issue the marks are accredited by OSHA and/or SCC, and all marks indicate that the product has met relevant safety requirements demonstrated by independent review and assessment.
Which retail outlets accept the Curtis-Straus NRTL/SCC Mark?
Bureau Veritas (Curtis-Straus LLC) is "one of the approved" safety agency labs for a large number of retailers. Click to view the most recent list of retailers that accept the Curtis-Straus NRTL mark.
What variations in the Mark do you offer?
• The mark with "us" identifier means the product has been tested and deemed compliant to U.S. product safety standards only
• The mark with "c" identifier means the product is compliant with Canadian product safety standards only
• The mark with "us" and "c" identifiers means the product is compliant with both U.S. and Canadian product safety standards
Can I move my existing certification?
Yes. Simply contact one of our personnel below and we can arrange a transfer.
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Chapter Seventy-Five/
Greeted with the warmth of the rising sun, Dion and Liam emerged from underneath the city. Part of Dion believed they'd arrive to find another ruin for him to move on from.
Shipping containers jutted from the sea. Most had maintained their seal, but some had burst open, leaving coffee, food, and other sundries littering the sea. Birds circled, screaming and swooping. Turning, he saw that Sandhyanen hadn't fared much better.
In the receding gloom, the newly risen tower lashed out, pulling, ripping. A set of wires drew back, then launched into another building, ripping, tearing it down in moments.
"What do you want to bet that's Pryor's doing?" Liam asked.
"I think —"
The rumble of cascading debris cut him off.
"We have to stop him."
In his docile tone, Liam commented, "I'm surprised the city made it through the night."
As if complimenting his statement, the gloom deepened, followed by a violent pulse. Dion turned, staring into the clouds circling over the water. They weaved together, drawing ever closer.
"Don't count that out just yet. Looks like we're in for another round."
An audible sigh escaped Liam as he slumped. Dion offered the jug of alcohol. This time Liam grabbed it, taking a mouthful of the stuff. He coughed, sputtered.
"Proud of you," Dion stated. "I can now call you one of mine." He regarded the bottle. "Stiff stuff. Not everyone can handle it."
Before Liam recovered, the first rain came down in thick waves. Lightning exploded in the sky, several bolts in quick succession. The lighthouse erupted in a shower of sparks. Bits of mortar and stone pelted the docks. The percussive rattling shook the entire harbor. Dion dropped the bottle, letting it swing from his waist as he grabbed Liam.
The wind howled after them as they moved down the shattered planks.
Cale's eyes fluttered open. Deep, hearty thunder roared all around him. Somehow muted and distant even as the ground vibrated underneath him, a wetness flowered around his forehead. Absently, he rubbed the spot, pushing the damp tangle of black hair away.
He rolled over. His thoughts came into jagged focus and pain erupted down his left side. Raising a trembling hand, his fingers grazed the edges of bloody, shattered glass jutting from his face. He gripped a shard, tugged it out. His cheek parted, fluid streamed down his chin. Casting the shard aside, he heard it strike cloth, clatter against the pavement. The movement revealed an array of glass embedded in his right arm. He stifled a scream and gingerly touched the first of many.
Rain curled around the buildings, creating thick streams that poured over the metal frames, pelting the concrete. Bits of broken glass fell from the shattered window above. Something growled.
Cale looked up, caught the glimmer of white eyes. Drawing back, he screamed as he brushed his arm. His attention shifted as he quelled the shout then fought to keep himself from causing any more damage. The crack of thunder fell hard, rattling debris in growling, violent waves that deafened him. Summoning his last reserves of strength, he pushed himself up to his scraped knees, then to his feet.
His head pounded as he limped from the wreckage, the off-kilter laughter from before reverberated in his head. He didn't want whatever was in that building to catch up with him. He checked his holster to find the gun gone. A curse rolled off his swelling tongue and he looked behind him. Swaths of shadow complimented the precipitation, but no white eyes dwelled in the dark corners. His heart pounded in his chest and he didn't want to gamble his life on it not being there. Mindful of the glass shards in his arm, he pulled his torn jacket up around him in an attempt to shield himself from the rain, then turned the corner.
He emerged from under the edge of a fallen skyscraper, catching sight of the tower. Its wires lashed out, pulling chunks of surrounding buildings, signs, and the like toward its center the mass. Like creeping vines, they were voracious as they consumed the city around. Cale almost stopped from the pure shock of it, at these things that seemed to stretch into the sky, but the cacophony coming from the tower broke him from his daze and he pressed forward.
Whatever was tearing his home apart, he would find it there. What he'd do then, he wasn't sure. First thing he needed to do: get some bandages. Every step had a hitch to it and the pain wracked his body unlike anything he'd experienced before. Each movement jostled the glass and he slowly picked at them, trying to rid his arm of the foreign objects. As each one came loose, more blood flowed down his arm, mixed with the rain. Cale was light headed, most likely in shock, but he forced his body forward into the city proper.
Shouts echoed through the alleys, but far away. Though he could see evidence of the riots everywhere he looked, there were few signs of life. The power had gone out through most of the city, but occasionally Cale would come across a flickering neon sign, a whole building lit up like a cure against the darkness. He took refuge when he could, but each time he'd hear some movement just out of sight, he retreated from it. He was in no shape to fight.
He turned down Lye Street and found an all-night drugstore, abandoned, the windows ripped out like empty sockets. The image brought to mind Terach's building and he almost turned around rather than face the event, so fresh and unreal. But, there it was, sitting in the back of his mind. Terach coughing. All that blood.
Cale froze in the middle of the street, watching the building, as if expecting it to come to life. He wondered if he still had Terach's blood on him, but knew that it had probably been wiped away in the torrent. In the distance, he heard the rumble of the tower claiming yet another structure. If he wasn't in so much damned pain, he would swear he was dreaming. But, no. He was alone on the street. No one was foolish enough to leave the safety of their homes with all the madness he'd seen today.
He approached the building cautiously. Perking up his ears, he eased onto the shattered glass outside the building. His mind was already working overtime, but he knew that meant someone — or something, he corrected himself — was trying to get out. He wasn't sure if that was a comfort or made this place all the more terrifying. Glass crunched underfoot. He used his sleeve to brush the remnants of the window from the frame. He leaned in, listening for any movement but found none.
Shelves had been overturned, fallen over themselves with different products littering the floors. Shadows draped the inside of the building, dispelled only briefly by flashes of lightning. He fought the urge to retreat as the thunder followed right after. His body wasn't suited to this fight or flight thing. He hadn't been this on edge since the last time he was sure the Stalker was here. But that was years ago. Hoping the adrenaline would sustain him until he could get some painkillers in his system, he sucked in two deep breaths and pressed into the building.
Cale crossed to the cash register to find it undisturbed. Just another bit of evidence that the place had been abandoned, not merely ransacked. He tested a hunch and crossed into the work area behind. He searched a shelf two down, found a 12 gauge shotgun. A sound came from just outside the glass. Panic trailed a horrible path through him, etching into his muscles.
His body revolted in the wake of it. Each movement made his joints ache, each step sent spirals of pain through his ankles, knees, and groin. He stiffened, all too aware of his injuries, at the burning wound in his cheek, the handful of holes in his arm. He fingered the magazine tube, found it empty except for one shell. He searched the area, found four more and slotted them in.
He held the pump action carefully as he searched the toppled shelves for any sort of bandage. He'd just about given up hope then he tripped and caught himself on a rack. The shotgun fell, clattering against the wet floor. The rack creaked in protest, then gave, collapsing on top of the shotgun. He cursed, trying to find a way to easily get it. He then spotted a dark shape moving in his periphery, approaching with swiftness of a predator.
Their bodies collided and Cale hit the ground hard. The figure pinned his arm to the ground, his body wrapped in darkness. A hot liquid dribbled on his cheek. He turned his head, thrashing from it. Heat poured from his opened wounds, leaving him cold and wracked with chills as he struggled to get up. Lightning flashed, giving him a perfect view of the figure's mangled face. She was missing multiple teeth, her jaw seemed to have been broken, ripped partially into a Chelsea smile. Ragged flaps of skin were covered in blood, dancing as her wild eyes searched his. He broke away from the mad gaze, instead he clawed amidst the smashed packages, the crinkled wrappers, for anything of substance. Then he spotted the shotgun, wedged underneath the metal shelving.
Cale struck the woman across the face. The wounds in her cheek parted around his fist, coating it in bloody sinewy tissue. She shrieked, recoiling just enough for him to wrench his arm free and scramble across the floor. The wounds in his arm reopened, screaming as he trailed against the dirty floor. Blood splattered the floor and her nails lodged into his scalp. He shouted, focused on the shotgun just out of his reach. He pushed a leg underneath him, catapulted himself forward into the shelf.
It scraped against the linoleum floor, spilling another bevy of loose packages onto the floor. His fingers toyed with the butt of the shotgun, then the woman's full weight fell onto him, trying to pin him down.
Another tremor worked its way through the city, through the door, Cale saw a rolling cloud of dirt and debris. He shifted, in attempt to buck her off, but her twisted nails had dug into his jacket and wrapped around his hair. His head jerked back and his eyes twisted toward the approaching cloud. He slammed his eyes shut, struggling for breath but managing to take one deep breath before —
A roaring horde consumed the building as thunder clambered after. The debris filled the air and burned his skin. The woman shrieked but held steady. He angled himself, throwing his elbow into her ribcage. He felt something give and snap beneath his strike, but he fought the urge to gasp in revulsion. Suddenly, her weight was gone. With his eyes closed tight, he just hoped he'd survive this. He drew up into himself, pulling his jacket up to his face, trying to shield himself.
Then the roar was silenced, like the carefree click of a remote snapping off a television. Not trusting the cluttered air, he continued to breathe through his jacket. His ears rang, but he listened intently for the woman. All was deathly still.
Then another loud screech, a sonorous exhalations that rushed toward him. Without daring to open his eyes, he scrambled for the shotgun. A viscous mixture of saliva and dirt escaped his mouth as he craned his arm and --
He had it. He jerked the shotgun toward him clumsily pulling the fore-end down. He rolled over, squeezed the trigger. The woman's face erupted in fleshy bits of bone and brain matter. Thunder rumbled in the distance.
Cale's insides seized and suddenly he was retching. Bile struck the debris-strewn linoleum, coating the now stained packages - with a lovely mixture of blood red and off-white stomach acid. He plopped against the fallen shelving and studied the remnants of the woman's body, recognizing the telltale Blue Fey addict, but he'd never seen them this violent. He thought of the disembodied shouts coming from the interior of Terach's apartment and could see exactly what Terach had to deal with. If the entire city was like this . . . no, he couldn't think about that.
He pulled the jacket back up to his face, fully pulling in the stench of expelled fluids. Through the disgust, he used his sleeve to wipe away the caked on dirt then chanced a breath. The debris filled his lungs and he coughed and sputtered, shifting over to his knee and trying to hack it back up.
There, tucked under the edge of the front counter, was a battered first aid kit. He laughed despite himself, fumbling with its contents while holding the shotgun, not wanting to lose it for any reason. He pocketed bandages and some antiseptic before rising to his feet.
A loud bang came from the ceiling, then a smattering of smaller ones. Cale straightened, staring out the doorway for what was coming. Giant hailstones struck the pavement, shattering and fanning out. They pinged off the surrounding buildings in the darkness. Two, three ricocheted off the ground, as if trying to crawl after him. He snatched one from the ground, rolling it around in his hand before setting it aside and focusing on his task.
He watched the doorway as he bandaged himself, with no idea of what he'd find in the tower . . . and how he'd deal with it.


text:
Eenie Balance
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|Eenie Balance
|Your task in this fun physics arcade game is to keep your little red hexagon on the see-saw at all times. Sounds easy huh? But it is way more difficult as lots of other cute characters will try to knock you off. Use LEFT and RIGHT ARROW KEYS to tilt the see-saw. Have fun!
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|(Avg: 3.4)
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text:
I wonder what breakfast is like with Donald? In our house, like with most meals, there's a degree of tension. This is because not everyone has the same agenda. Some want to talk. Some what to eat. Some want to go back to bed. Some want to get out the door to school or work 5 minutes ago. Some want to get down and play with their toys.
I'm still a little naive about meal times. Reality hasn't led to cynicism yet. I expect to be able to bring "Breakfast Peace". That state of blissful food consumption interspersed with quiet conversation that would remind me of one of the happier episodes of the Waltons or Little House on the Prairie. A meal where everyone makes their menu choices and then eats them without complaining. A meal where we all use a knife, fork or spoon solely in the way that the great cutlery designer ordained for them to be used. A meal where the conversation was humorous but affriming. Where questions were answered in English not grunts and involved the happy and voluntary sharing of information.
The issue isn't just that I am incapable of imposing the sovereign will of Daf on breakfast, but also that I'm as much a part of the problem as the other combatants gathered round the table.
And that's why I'm neither hopeful nor terrified about Donald Trump's inauguration. Because I don't think he'd be any more effective at getting his own way at breakfast in our house.
In the end Trump, for all his bravado and boasting, is just a man. A man who, because he is going to be president in a democracy, has to convince other people to agree with him before he can get anything done. He might make some bad decisions over the next four years, he might even surprise people by making some good ones, but what he won't be able to do is to exercise the sovereign will of Donald. Because none of us can.
The writer of Proverbs says:
"In their hearts humans plan their course,
but the Lord establishes their steps." (Proverbs 16:9)
So as Trump begins his presidency I am praying that God in His mercy will use him to govern in a way that brings many to turn in repentance and faith to the one who truly sits on the throne, the Lord Jesus Christ. I don't know how he might do that, but I do know that would be the best outcome of the next four years, whoever is in the Oval office.
Now I wonder if I could use a nuclear deterrent to bring peace to breakfast? Being realistic I don't think even that would work.