text:
First off, my kid was stunned that Bethany Hamilton was in the show. She loved the movie and sees Bethany as a great role model. So I know what team she's cheering for. I think this is the first time the US race has had a contestant that's had an amputated limb. Amazing Race Canada did it in Season 1 with former soldier Jody Mitic and Amazing Race Australia did it with Geoff "Sticky" Stick. Some tasks are going to be tough for her but she looks tough and determined.
Teams leave Time Square in NYC, in front of a live audience no less. Phil talks about the Save, a new development in the race that eliminates the Salvage Pass. The Save goes to the winner of the first leg and it allows them to "Save" themselves if they are the last time and about to be eliminated. Seeing how they made a big deal about The Save, I believe it will be used sometime in the race. Shame to make a big deal about it and then not see it used.
After Times Square, teams zip to Queens and they are told to head to the US Virgin Islands where they must sign up for a seaplane trip, a series of five or six (can't recall exact number and I'm not going to look it up). Oh yeah, there are two flights, one arriving about 40 minutes or so before the other. And only five teams get on that flight. Five teams do, can't remember them all but the fun begins when they get to the US Virgin Islands. But not for the first teams. The first bunch of teams sign up easily, jump aboard the seaplane and fly out to some bay then take a boat out to Carval Rock (weird the things you remember). Then they have to clamber over the rock, jump off of it (it's about 2 storeys high to get their next clue.)
So the first teams fly out on the seaplanes. But when the rest of the teams arrive, they race to the sign up sheet. It's a madhouse, some teams get there first and sign pretty quickly but when the Firefighters (two dudes from Boston) start signing up for the second to last flight, one of the Realtors (two blondes from Florida), grabs the pen out of his hand and writes their name on the spot. Whoa, that's intense. The guy was in the middle of writing his and his teammate's name, and you can see his writing right on the line, when she pulls this stunt. Surely there's got to be some kind of penalty for that, for intentionally impeding another team's profess. I mean this isn't like the Twinnies and the Texans finding another team's money on the ground and keeping it for themselves (Still a bad move but not officially a penalty). This is physically pulling the pen out of the guy's hand while he's writing. Not something Gord and I would do. We'd U-Turn you, maybe not give you directions but we wouldn't steal from you. Let's see what happens next.
Well, the Firefighters are all indignant, as well as the Wrestlers (those guys seem fun) because now they are on the last flight. Meanwhile, the rest of the teams, including the Final 2 on the final plane, climb over the rock and jump in. Some do it better than others. Then it's over to a pirate ship to get their next clue. And this part is totally a time waster. Nothing really happens save for the "pirate captain" giving them a clue and telling them to get off his ship.
Once off his ship, they have to use a rope to pull a small boat across to the beach. And at the beach it's a Roadblock. Using a compass that shows your head when it faces you (a bit opposite of normal compasses), a yard long shovel and a starting point, you must find a treasure chest buried in the sand. Pretty self-explanatory, but then many teams break the first rule of Amazing Race: Read the Clue. And the second which is also: Read the Clue. Also, don't jump to hard into that tiny boat, especially if you're a big wrestler, cause you'll sink it. And still have to pull it ashore.
So teams are flaying around, dazed and confused, a good number of them unable to use a compass. And despite the hope of The Dentists to become the tough, no-nonsense, almost villains of the race, the male half of the couple helps a number of teams on how to read the compass. And later, so does one of the Flight Attendants. But the chaos is obvious as teams search in vain for their treasure, and soon, almost everyone's on the beach digging in the sand. Some complain about the heat or being scratched or the bugs but you know, you don't have to wear a bikini while lying in the sand.
Anyway, the Dentists get done first. And they have to head into town, find Phil and the mat in some fort. No problem and the Dentists are first. They get The Save. No other prize; just the Save. And like I said, it will probably be used. Or at least I'll hope it will be used.
Moving on, a bunch of teams get done and find Phil. And soon we're left with three teams on the beach: the Firefighters, the Realtors and Team Nashville, an engaged couple. It's dark and the Realtors have had enough. They approach Team Nashville and propose that they quit this task and take their chances racing each other to the Pitstop. Nashville says yes but they need to ask the Firefighters. Those boys also say yes. Personally, I think it's a big mistake for these teams to quit. Or for one team to join the pact. A penalty for quitting is four hours and chances are, you could find that treasure in that four hours. Based on what was shown on the show, teams were very close to their treasures.
Still, the Realtors think they can outrace at least the Firefighters. So they quit and the boat takes them into town. And it's a race to the taxis. Nashville gets the first, the Firefighters are partly in the second, well, one dude is sitting in the seat while the other is climbing in. But one of the realtors tries to push herself in, thinking she can use her charm or whatever to convince the cabbie to toss out the Firefighters. But one of the Firefighters gives the realtor a little shove and she bumps against the door. Maybe not gentlemanly behaviour but if you're going to try to push yourself in, you have to expect that someone may push back. Especially since you've shown you're willing to play dirty.
In the end, there is a race to the mat and the Realtors arrive last. They are eliminated. They aren't happy to lose but so it goes.
Next week teams head to the UK. Stuff happens, teams worry about elimination, more stuff happens. Maybe I'll see you here next week if I find another break in the week.


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- Judging and Trade Day Tuesday 30th July 2019
- Show Day Wednesday 31st July 2019
If you live in Cheshire – or even if you're just a long-time follower of our social media channels – you'll probably be familiar with Reaseheath College. Located in the heart of the Cheshire countryside and just down the road from us in Nantwich, Reaseheath looks after the education of over 4,500 students every year and offers a range of courses in further and higher education as well as apprenticeships. The college is a long-time friend of the International Cheese Awards, and we're thrilled that to celebrate their upcoming Family Festival, Reaseheath is offering one lucky winner the chance to scoop a hamper of goodies in our Spring competition.
Reaseheath College is one of the country's leading providers of Engineering further education courses, with a particular specialism in Plant and Agricultural Engineering. With industry standard equipment, facilities and a modern working environment, students receive teaching and learning in as close to an industry setting as possible. Reaseheath College has close links with major engineering industrial partners such as JCB and Case New Holland and ensures that teaching closely mirrors current sector developments. It's not just Engineering on offer though - there's a whole host of courses available, from Adventure Sports to Conservation and Wildlife Management. Have a look at the full list of courses here, or pop along to one of their open days to really appreciate the range of opportunities for students of all ages and levels.
Reaseheath College Family Festival
The Reaseheath Family Festival is one of the highlights of the local calendar, and has been held here in Cheshire for almost 40 years now. This year's show takes place on Sunday 13thMay between 10am and 5pm, with a host of fantastic activities that the whole family will enjoy. Highlights for 2018 include The Dog and Duck Show, an entertaining and educational demonstration involving trained and untrained sheepdogs and a herd of unruly ducks. There's also the chance to see the professional extreme sports show team, Team Extreme; The Sheep Show; and world-leading display falconer, Jonathan Marshall. The festival is an absolute must for anyone who loves the countryside, and tickets are unbeatable value at £4.50 for adults (£5 after 7thMay) and £3.60 (/£4) for concessions. Full details and tickets available here.
Enter our April Competition with Reaseheath College on Twitter and Facebook
To celebrate the upcoming Family Festival (and the fast-approaching ICA2018), Reaseheath College has come up with an amazing prize for us to give away to one lucky follower: a hamper packed full of cheese, chutney, crackers, chocolate and wine – and there's even a family ticket in there for the Family Festival so you can pop along and enjoy the fun if you're local to Cheshire.
There are two ways to enter and stand a chance of winning this amazing prize. Firstly, like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/theinternationalcheeseawards and make sure you like and share the competition post. You can also keep an eye on our Twitter feed (@iCheeseAwards) for one of the special competition tweets over the coming week, then simply retweet and make sure you're following both us and @Reaseheath. Winner will be drawn at random from entries across both sites at 8pm on May 2nd 2018 - UK residents over the age of 18 only please. Good luck everyone!
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The Powerbrokers
National brands with name recognition, profit potential.
Firehouse Subs
Total U.S. Unit Count: 576 (539 franchised)
Franchise Fee: $20,000
Total Start-Up Costs: $178,376–$625,801
Royalty: 6% of net sales
Renewal Fee: 25% of then-current franchise fee
Marketing Fee: 3% of net sales
Last year, Firehouse Subs opened 95 restaurants, added 144 new franchisees, entered nine new markets, and watched AUV jump 12.7 percent to $731,000. For the 19-year-old, Jacksonville, Florida–based concept—founded by firefighting brothers Robin and Chris Sorensen—the chain's ascent has been one wild ride.
"We've been afforded an incredible opportunity to help a lot of people [and] the more we grow, the more opportunities we're able to provide," Robin Sorensen says.
Firehouse says its franchisees can be in business for themselves, but not by themselves. The concept consistently sits near the top of Franchise Business Review's franchisee satisfaction rankings, and executives tout its litigation-free history with franchisees.
"[Our team] embraces a culture in which we strive for excellent communication with our franchisees—both individually and collectively—and we ensure that we are fundamentally fair in our business practices," says CEO Don Fox.
The chain's "family-style" franchising includes an area representative model that provides a higher caliber of local training support and a continuity of relationships. Firehouse also offers financing to its established franchisees to spark additional system-wide growth with long-term partners.
An Outside Perspective: Citing its positive relationship with franchisees and track record of AUV increases, McKee calls Firehouse "one of the premier opportunities for a franchisee." She credits Firehouse for developing its systems and business model prior to attempting a major growth program and commends leadership for its transparency with franchisees.
Papa John's
Total U.S. Unit Count: 3,130 (2,482 franchised)
Franchise Fee: $5,000
Total Start-Up Costs: $175,000–$250,000
Royalty: 5% of net sales
Renewal Fee: $4,000
Marketing Fee: 7% of net sales
In the 2012 American Customer Satisfaction Index, Papa John's claimed the top spot among all
limited-service restaurants and national pizzerias. The Louisville, Kentucky–based chain was also named Pizza Brand of the Year in a 2012 Harris Poll. Such honors underscore Papa John's credibility with consumers, but also excite current and prospective franchisees, who are eager to participate in a proven, streamlined system where AUV tops $800,000.
Ongoing corporate support includes quarterly visits with a franchise business director and operations support person, a regional marketing director, online training, and a no-cost secret shopper program that helps breed positive customer experiences.
"The history of our brand has demonstrated that franchisees have a high degree of success if they follow our culture and recommendations," says Papa John's vice president of global sales and development Joe Smith.
An Outside Perspective: "Papa John's will continue to be a darling of the pizza industry for years to come," McKee says. With its national advertising program, industry reputation, and steady record of making impactful decisions that drive franchisee ROI, McKee says, Papa John's will continually attract new franchisees and see its existing operators open new units.
Total U.S. Unit Count: 565 (467 franchised)
Franchise Fee: $35,000
Total Start-Up Costs: $209,500–$646,100
Royalty: 6% of net sales
Renewal Fee: 50% of then-current franchise fee
Marketing Fee: 2.5%–4.5%
Chicken concept Zaxby's has watched its system-wide sales surge toward the $1 billion mark and its AUV surpass $1.7 million. The compelling numbers continue to silence early concerns that the 23-year-old concept would struggle to grow beyond its Southern roots.
Zaxby's executives cite a proven growth record built on a sound financial and business model that includes distinctive store design, high repeat-diner frequency, and a collaborative culture driven by mentoring and sharing best practices among operators.
"Coaching, mentoring, and consistent franchisee support give our licensees a jump-start on profitability by focusing on proven processes, systems, and efficiencies, and eliminating problems and risk before they occur," says Zaxby's senior director of franchise administration Amy Camp Pritchett.
An Outside Perspective: "Some brands develop across the U.S. without truly realizing how their resources, both financial and personnel, will be impacted," Simon says. "Zaxby's has built the right way: grassroots, one restaurant at a time."
Simon adds that Zaxby's training, operations systems, and franchisee support procedures have produced high-revenue restaurants and a solid foundation of 500-plus units that should galvanize prospective franchisees.
Jersey Mike's Subs
Total U.S. Unit Count: 584 (566 franchised)
Franchise Fee: $18,500
Total Start-Up Costs: $215,843–$394,063
Royalty: 6.5% of net sales
Renewal Fee: 0
Marketing Fee: $7,500
Though Jersey Mike's has been franchising since 1987, methodical early development has given way to robust expansion. In 2012 alone, the fast-casual sandwich chain opened 92 new stores, a 33 percent jump in new-store growth over 2011. While Jersey Mike's does not disclose AUV, an estimate from research firm Technomic places that figure near $640,000.
Jersey Mike's Franchise Systems president Hoyt Jones says leadership is consistently seeking ways to help franchisees improve, whether it be through staff training, corporate-backed customer loyalty programs, or ROI-generating technology such as the advanced "Super App" Jones says will debut next year.
"Ultimately, success breeds success," Jones says. "Our existing operators are excited to extend the Jersey Mike's brand … [and we're] attracting interest from new multibrand, multiunit franchisees that share our passion."
An Outside Perspective: Simon says Jersey Mike's has expanded by focusing on store profitability and training, elements that promote additional development by existing franchisees.
"The training and simplicity of the model allows the owner to focus on growing his business outside his four walls [and] becoming a part of the community," Simon says.
The Hall of Fame
Some brands are destined to make this list year in and year out. The Best Franchise Deals Hall of Fame includes quick serves worthy of this year's list that have already made an appearance at least two times.
• Subway
• Popeyes
• Bojangles'
• Saladworks
The five times weekly e-newsletter that keeps you up-to-date on the latest industry news and additions to this website.


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I'm a bit late with this post but a couple weeks ago I gave a public lecture at the British Science Festival in Bradford. The talk was on the surprising similarities and differences in the social behaviours of animals and humans. I'd never been to the BSF before but it was an amazing event with an incredible line-up of speakers. I'll definitely be aiming to speak again there next year (when the BSF will be held in Swansea) and will also be planning to stay to attend more of the talks.
My talk went well with around 120 people in attendance. Everyone was extremely interactive, asking lots of questions throughout the talk and offering a lot of engaging discussion. So much so that I didn't manage to get through my entire talk within the one hour time slot! One of my favourite things about these sorts of events is seeing this sort of genuine interest in science among members of the public. As a scientist it definitely gives you renewed enthusiasm for your own work every time you run one of these events. The interesting discussions come from a different perspective than you get when conversing with other scientists and its very refreshing. I'm already looking forward to next year!


text: One of the neat ideas we had right after school ended last semester was to visit the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro. There were five us all together (Amy, David, Chase, Wee and Me) and we had a great time. There were tons of wonderful animals to see, some I had seen before and some I hadn't: polar bears, sea lions, wolves, bears, otters, zebras, alligators, lions, panthers, chimpanzees, baboons, giraffes, ostriches, bison, elk, puffins and my personal favorite, the gorillas. I loved watching them, but I also hated it. I was drawn back over and over again, every time we passed them to and from the many parts of the park. They sit like I would it I was in an enclosure without hope of leaving. They play as I would if I didn't have much else to do and they think like I would if I knew I didn't have freedom. I know the overall goals of our zoological parks is to educate, inspire and create a sense of wonder, enjoyment and discovery in those who visit. I know we have a responsibility for taking care of animals in our world and for recognizing our interdependence with one another, but sometimes I wonder what that means for me. Is it excusable to use animals to educate people? Is it reasonable to put animals in enclosures which simulate but never provide the true sense of freedom that an animal desires? Do animals deserve freedom? I know most zookeepers probably answer these questions early in their careers tentatively, but ultimately with a "yes." We are all interconnected with one another, but seeing it face-to-face in the case of a gorilla or giraffe helps drive home the point even further. I think it certainly did with me when I saw it, as I hope it does with many others as well. Animals deserve our love and our respect and, as much as we can possibly provide it, they deserve their freedom. It is my belief that we have far too much in common to think anything otherwise.


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Stay a while
CITY BREAK MALAGA:IT'S A SMALL town with big ideas. Not so very small, actually: with a population of more than 550,000, Malaga is currently the fifth-biggest city in Spain. Once known mostly as the place people flew into before heading straight for the distinctly inauthentic Costa resorts, it's now on a mission to persuade visitors to stay a while and experience a slice of authentic Andalucia – with a modest but satisfying helping of culture on the side.
Culture, you ask? What culture? Well, it may not be Madrid or Barcelona, but Malaga unquestionably punches above its weight in the culture department. The city already has two top-notch art venues in the Picasso Museum and the Carmen Thyssen Museum, and work is well under way on an enormous new fine arts museum at the Palacio de la Aduana, which will bring visiting exhibitions from the Prado in Madrid.
Add a graceful Arabic fortress, a great hunk of cathedral right out of Spanish Inquisition central casting, a museum of contemporary art and an up-and-coming football team whose blue-and-white striped jerseys will be competing in next season's Champions League pre-qualifiers, and you'll find all the angles are covered.
And that's without even mentioning the pleasures of browsing through a maze of pedestrianised streets on warm evenings, stopping here and there for a glass of wine and a plate of tapas. Or strolling through the park to the port for a café solo with the beautiful people on brand-new Muelle Uno, a gleaming modern harbourside location which, up until a few years ago, was a rusting, unloved eyesore. Now lined with shops and restaurants – there's everything from a sandwich place to a Michelin-starred joint – it has a vibe which is uncannily like that of Sydney's fabled Circular Quay, except without the jetlag.
The combination of cultural chutzpah with geographical compactness makes Malaga hugely attractive as a weekend citybreak destination. A two-and-a-half-hour flight gets you there in the blink of an eye. Hop on the train at the airport and you'll arrive in the city centre in less than 10 minutes, having paid the princely sum of €1.30 for the privilege. There is a brace of hotels within five minutes' walk of the Centro Alameda station. After that, everything you'll need is accessible on foot – and for the rest, or when the sun-drenched local microclimate makes walking too bothersome, there's the hop-on hop-off bus.
First port of call, even for those who don't profess to be mad about Picasso, has to be the Museo Picasso Malaga on Calle San Agustin. You'll find paintings here which have never been displayed elsewhere, as well as some fantastically funky ceramics. The building itself, meanwhile, is a treat; light and airy inside, its 300-year-old mahogany ceilings are intricately carved, and the modern architectural touches — a courtyard filled with bamboos, windows dressed with simple but elegant blinds made from local reeds, an outdoor café where single pots of massed red geraniums glow in the sunshine, a gift shop crammed with tasteful Cubist knick-knacks — make it an uncommonly pleasant place to spend a couple of hours. Be warned, though, everyone else has the same idea, including the hordes who arrive from the cruise ships which glide into Malaga's harbour at the crack of dawn. Book before you go, or wait until the afternoon, or both.
Around the corner, just off the large square La Plaza de la Constitución, is the Carmen Thyssen Museum, a brand-new cousin of the gallery of the same name in Madrid which opened in March 2011. Another glorious giftshop, another salubrious café, another exhibition of hugely tasteful art works, many of which have a specifically Andalucian connection.
If all that indoor culture has you longing to be outside with the wind in your hair, you can always get on your bike. There's no better woman to get you going than Kay Farrell, whose cycle rental business is tucked into a tiny pasaje just off Malaga's main traffic artery, the Alameda. Push off by yourself or join one of her guided tours, in which you'll find yourself hurtling along Calle Cervantes at a satisfying clip. Before we knew it we were cycling right into the Malagueta – the bullring where the infant Picasso sat on his father's knee to watch the action – and out on to the beach of the same name.
Malaga's cathedral, La Encarnación, is nicknamed La Manquita, or one-armed lady, because it has only one belltower. Not that you'd miss it because the interior is cavernous. It's a relief to get out from under the heavy-handed medieval crozier and back into the sunshine to head up the hill to the Islamic fortress and former royal residence known as the Alcazaba.
The tip here is to take the elevator – tucked discreetly under the hill, so it's easy to miss – then wend your way downwards. From the top there are, of course, stunning views of the city and if you've been wondering why the canny seafaring Arabs who ruled Malaga for so long would build their castle so far back from the harbour, you can see at once that the shoreline used to come up to its very doors. It's a hugely evocative place where it's easy to imagine yourself striding down those elegant fountain-strewn gardens in your manly white robes (women, one suspects, didn't have such an elegant time of it).
After that you might want to spend a day just lolling around on the beach – make sure you camp near one of the chiringuito barbecue restaurants, which offer delicious fried fish al fresco – or indulging in some retail therapy. Malaga is a stylish shopping town, with bags and shoes especially tempting. But if you're still not museumed out, there are still a fistful to choose from. Visit the tourist office at the Plaza de la Marina for an astonishing variety of themed walking maps: romantic Malaga, contemporary Malaga, botanical Malaga, religious Malaga, or my favourite, Malaga: Ruta de la Piedra y el Agua (Malaga: Route of Stone and Water).
The Automobile Museum is located in a magnificently restored tobacco factory. A stupendous collection of vintage cars which belong to a Portuguese millionaire – from a diamond-studded affair once owned by Elizabeth Taylor to a Mercedes which carried Himmler to do his day's dirty work, plus dozens of others including a custom-built "picnic car". La Concepción, Malaga's botanical garden, is home to a wide range of sub-tropical plants and a beautifully sane way to avoid the heat of the midday sun.
After that, take your pick. There's a doll museum, a wine museum, a football museum, a flamenco museum, a science museum and an eco-museum. Somebody counted and got 27. But after that first bottle of rioja, who's counting?
How to . . .
FLYBoth Aer Lingus and Ryanair fly to Malaga. Return flights in early June work out at approximately €250. The annual Feria de Malaga runs from August 10th to 20th this year, which means expensive hotels and thronged streets but also flamenco, processions, live music, bullfighting and general mayhem. Holy Week is also a major annual festival in the city. Malaga's film festival – the brainchild of its second most famous son after Picasso, Antonio Banderas – takes place in April.
STAYFor understated and utterly contemporary luxury, try Malaga's only five-star, the Hotel Vincci Selección Posada Del Patio. A double superior can be had in early June for less than €115. vinccihoteles.com.
If you want to look down from a great height in great old-world style, nowhere is situated better than the Parador of Gibralfaro, perched on the side of the mountain near the fortress. A double superior costs €240. paradores-spain.com.
For a quiet waterside location check out tiny three-star La Chancla. It's on the beach in an attractive, quiet suburb a 15-minute bus ride from the city centre, but one of its eight rooms will set you back a mere €50 a night.
EATNeed fuel to keep you going on the retail therapy front? Perch on a high stool outdoors at Tabernas-Casa el Volapie on Strachan Street, where you can join the locals in munching such favourite delicacies as banderillas de boquerones (anchovies wrapped around olives; €6). Salted prawns in a paper cone (€10) go down really well with a bottle of Banderas Ribero del Duero Tempranillo (€13.50).
For a super-stylish lunch head to the new marina area, Muelle Uno, where Gorki offers a new, blini-based take on tapas with "enteras" portions priced at under €5, salads at €8 and a plate of first-class foie gras for €12.50.
It's hard to go wrong on the eating front in Malaga: there are fistfuls of good tapas bars around the city centre, including the easygoing D-Gustar on Plaza de los Flores, just off the main shopping street, Calle Marques de Lorios.
Afterwards, head around the corner for ice-cream at Casa Mira. The best in Malaga, say locals – especially if you try the rum-and-raisin flavour made with local wine.
* Arminta Wallace travelled to Malaga courtesy of Aer Lingus, and stayed as a guest of Malaga Tourism.


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Welcome to the German newsreel archives,
Here you can do research amongst the newsreel films free of charge. Created as part of a pilot project in 2002, the website has by now been replaced with the Federal Archive's digital film library ("Digitale Filmothek des Bundesarchivs",
). The film library presents films about World War I as well as post-1945 newsreels from West Germany, allowing you to research, view, and order films and film clips.
If you are interested in ordering newsreel clips from the former German Democratic Republic (DDR) or the pre-1945 era, please contact the Federal Archives (
). Ordering such newsreels online is currently not possible.
As the portal is no longer updated, it is not possible to register a new account. Existing logins can still be used.
If you are a registered user, please login here
If you would like to do research without obligation,
please use guest access.


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When New York City's schools declared an emergency two years ago because of problems in its food delivery system, U.S. Foodservice rode in to help. When a company that delivered to schools in south Brooklyn and Staten Island hit the brink of bankruptcy and left the city's service in late 2005, U.S. Foodservice picked up that slack, too. And this year, when the city asked for new bids for a restructured delivery program, U.S. Foodservice made an offer.
But now the firm is pulling out. U.S. Foodservice will finish its current contracts for the rest of the school year, but its departure further narrows the field of vendors capable of handling the massive job of keeping New York's school kitchens stocked. And to the extent that it increases costs or stalls efforts to improve nutrition in city schools, that's a problem.
Every day the city's schools feed more people than live in San Francisco in cafeterias located in hundreds of schools spread across 300 square miles. There's frozen chicken and fresh produce, food the city buys as well as goods the federal government donates, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner, and different menus for different grade levels. It's a complicated system and it sometimes things go wrong. In 2000, for example, officers at several food delivery companies were indicted on federal bid-rigging charges, and some went to prison.
Two years ago the city tried to put that scandal behind it and save money by agglomerating its contracts for delivering food to put only three firms in charge of delivering all the food to all the schools.
It didn't work. The companies were too small, the computers didn't operate properly, and deliveries reached the schools late or not at all. The city slapped the delivery firms with big late fines and brought in extra help. Service improved, but fines and disputes over payments persisted. In the summer, one of the original vendors dropped out. And in December, another one (the one mentioned above that was under financial pressure) was forced out or quit, depending on whom you ask.
People from those companies and other firms have questioned whether the delivery program can ever be made to work. Developed on advice from Accenture, the idea was to use fewer companies to take advantages of economies of scale. But the volume of food was simply overwhelming, delivery guys say.
Now, U.S. Foodservice—by far the biggest company involved in the delivery program, with 28,000 employees nationwide—is dropping out, citing "highly complex and resource-intensive administrative requirements of providing foodservice to the city schools."
"The Department of Education billing systems are not a good fit with mainstream foodservice practices, and can therefore create unusually high costs in terms of both time and expenses," Rob Meyne, Vice President of Corporate Communications, says in a statement to the Voice.
A spokeswoman for the Department of Education says there's no specific timetable for awarding the new contracts that U.S. Foodservice has passed on.


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A. Collection of Website User Information
Tamimi Markets may collect information about users when they:
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Tamimi Markets uses "cookies" to recognize users when they use or return to the website. This is done to provide a continuous and more personalized shopping experience for users. A cookie is a small text file that a website or email may save to the user's browser and store on the user's hard drive, which includes the pages visited on the website, the user's web address, and the user's type of browser. This information helps Tamimi Markets customize the user's website experience and provide more relevant marketing messages. In order to provide the best guest experience possible, this information also is used for internal reporting and analysis purposes, such as how users browse the website, performance measurements for marketing efforts, and users' response to those marketing efforts.
Tamimi Markets has automatic access to receive and collect certain anonymous information in standard usage logs through a web server, obtained from cookies sent to users' browsers from web server cookies stored on users' hard drives, including but not limited to:
- Computer identification information.
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- The domain server through which the user accesses the website.
- The user's type of computer.
- The user's type of web browser.
Tamimi Markets also collects personally identifiable information that users may choose to provide while they are on the website, including:
- First and last name.
- Email address.
- Contact details, including phone numbers.
- PIN/ZIP code.
- Demographic profile (such as age, gender, occupation, education and address).
- Personal preferences and interests.
- Opinions about services, products, and features on the website and in the stores.
Tamimi Markets may also collect the following information about:
- The pages users visit/access.
- The links users click on in the website.
- The number of times users access the page.
- Items users view, add to a shopping list, or select for purchase.
- Other websites users open simultaneously while browsing this one.
Tamimi Markets collects information about users when they:
- Purchase, order, return, exchange or request information about products and services in stores, on the website, or on mobile applications.
- Create a Tamimi Markets online account.
- Visit the website or participate in interactive features of the site or mobile applications, such as product reviews or the weekly ad.
- Use a social media service, such as Tamimi Markets' Facebook page or YouTube channel.
- Create a shopping list.
- Sign up for e-mails, mobile messages, or social media notifications from Tamimi Markets.
- Respond to a survey or participate in a focus group.
- Conduct a transaction where information is provided by the user.
- Provide comments, suggestions, or other feedback.
B. Use of Information Collected
Tamimi Markets may use information collected on the website to:
- Manage and improve the website.
- Personalize services to users.
- Administer and operate user accounts.
- Tell users about important changes to the website and services.
- Understand users' shopping behavior to develop and improve products and services.
- Manage promotions, customer surveys and questionnaires.
Please note that:
- Tamimi Markets is the sole owner of user information collected at different points on the website.
- Tamimi Markets will collect personally identifiable information about users only as part of a voluntary registration process, guest check out, online survey, or any combination of these activities.
- Tamimi Markets may send users updates upon registration, updates regarding status of orders, and promotional emails about new products, special offers, etc.
- Tamimi Markets does not share or rent users' information with third parties except agents and alliance partners.
- Tamimi Markets shares email addresses with agents and alliance partners who use the email address to confirm deliveries, send notices and offer services related to the service.
- Tamimi Markets does not rent, sell or share users' personal information and will not disclose any personally identifiable information to any other third parties unless required by special circumstances such as compliance with subpoenas, court orders, or requests/orders from legal authorities or law enforcement agencies requiring such disclosure.
- Users may offer their views, suggestions, and comments, if any, by submitting an online feedback form.


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Speedster CAbinets (for Paul Carmody speakers)
Three color choices of Gig Harbor Audio "Rodney" cabinets: Dark Walnut, Padauk, Purple Heart. These have the most amazing bass response and rich mids from any monitor speaker around for the price. Listen to them in person. Then build a pair. We'll show you where to order the parts and can show you how to build them. These were designed by Paul Carmody. We modify them in various ways, but it is hard to beat the original simple design that Mr. Carmody came up with.


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Personal Banking
Small Business Banking
Commercial Banking
Private Client Group
Personal Financial Services
For the quickest answer, search previously asked questions below. Chances are, others have asked a similar question and there's already an answer waiting for you. If you can't find a match, ask a new question and our team members will answer.
Janice, Indianapolis
February 8, 2015 04:15:15 PM
1 Response
In reply to Janice, Indianapolis
Thanks for writing in today, Janice!
First, if you've received a check from a third party, we do recommend that you reach out to the person or company who paid you the check for more information as to the reason for the payment. We apologize that even if TD Bank is the issuing bank for this check, we won't be able to tell you the purpose of the refund, unless we were providing the refund to you as our Customer.
If you're uncertain that the check you received is valid and you'd like to verify the status of the account that it is drawn on, you can call one of our Banking Specialists 24/7 at 888-751-9000, as long as TD Bank is the issuing bank. Please note that TD Bank will not be able to verify if the funds are available in the account for anyone not listed as an account signer.
Typically, we'd recommend you to visit a TD Bank Store to deposit or cash the check. As we noticed that you're writing in from Indianapolis, we understand you may not be able to do so at this time. In this case, if possible we'd recommend that the person writing the check verify the funds for you by contacting a Banking Specialist at the above number with you on the line.
If this isn't a possibility, we encourage you to speak with your financial institution regarding a deposit of the check and their returned check policies, including any fees they may assess.
Thanks again for the question, Janice! Hope this helps and all the best to you!
Kristen P, Mount Laurel
February 8, 2015 04:16:46 PM


text: We are very proud to announce the opening of our new patio. We've expanded our seating area so more guest can enjoy our outdoor space. A bubbling rock fountain enhances the atmosphere, and our new fire ring creates the best place to enjoy a summer's evening on the shore of Lake Superior. There's nothing quite like a warm fire, a summer breeze, Lake Superior waves crashing on the beach, and great friends sitting beside you. We hope you enjoy the new patio area made just for you!


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Robbers - Special Edition
Booklist (starred review)—
"High-octane… Cook takes the noir chase novel on some remarkable detours."
Los Angeles Times Book Review—
"An adrenaline bomb of a crime novel… a rhythm that is strictly four on the floor."
The New York Times—
"Classic noir bones… with fearless originality, in a lyric voice that sings itself raw."
Two drifters on the prowl in a stolen Caddy ragtop. A woman on the run from a killing she couldn't help. And a tough but aging Texas Ranger with a nose for chasing down fugitives. Put them all on the road in a chase across Texas… then watch the mayhem unfold in a twisting tale full of surprises at every turn.
This is the award-winning novel a reader can't—and won't—put down.
Note: This Kindle Edition has a special Author's Preface.
What they are saying about Robbers—
"If Elmore Leonard lived in Texas, his name would be Christopher Cook."
—Kinky Friedman, author of The Mile High Club
"My kind of book."
—James Ellroy, author of L.A. Confidential
"Christopher Cook writes like an angel…I haven't enjoyed a novel this much in years."
—James Crumley, author of The Last Good Kiss
"From Elmore Leonard's laconic flair with the dumb and dangerous to James Lee Burke's lyric feel for dark hearts in a New South—Robbers ranges wild and wide, deep through the heart of Texas."
—Michael Malone, author of Time's Witness
Publishers Weekly—
"Cook's plot tumbles from scene to scene with jarring brilliance."
The Dallas Morning News—
"A full-tilt boogie of a tale... a book to stay up all night with."


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Contact Details
The Law Offices of Hart J. Levin
[email protected]
Practice Areas
Social Networks
We offer expertise in DUI / Drunk Driving cases due to our rigorous training and experience as LA prosecutors. We build your winning defense strategy by identifying and targeting specific vulnerabilities in the State's case, and aggressively attacking those issues. We handle each part of your case so you donÍt have to appear in court. California is incredibly harsh on people arrested for DUI / Drunk Driving. DUI / Drunk Driving penalties consist of significant jail time, huge fines, long and expensive DUI/alcohol classes, community labor, ignition interlock device, vehicle impounding, and more. DUI / Drunk Driving convictions can also permanently ruin your criminal record and DMV record, making finding employment very difficult, and getting insured extremely costly. It is critical to seek a Los Angeles DUI lawyer for your DUI right away to ensure a proper DMV hearing so the DMV does not automatically suspend your driver's license.
_´ Super Lawyer
_´ District Attorney
Super Lawyer Rising Star 2014-2016, AVVO Clients' Choice Winner 2012-2016, Top 100 Trial Attorneys and former LA Deputy District Attorney
LA's toughest and most successful DUI defense team in your corner. We are the highest rated DUI team in Los Angeles. Call today for a free consultation.
Matt L.
After getting my third DUI (first in 10 years), I was scared to death at what the consequences would be. I feared doing serious jail time, countless hours of community service, $10's of thousands of dollars in fee's...I had no idea. I found Hart Levin here on Yelp, and must say I was a little skeptical at first because there were nothing but 5-star, rave reviews. Well my case was finally settled this week, and there's a reason for the stellar reviews (Yelp is not hiding any negative ones at the bottom...please trust me on this because I can't fathom that any exist)!
With Hart and his team representing me, I am 100% confident that I could not possibly have gotten a more favorable outcome. From beginning to end (roughly a 1 year process), they were always available, responded to my questions promptly and they essentially handled everything for me...there was minimal work required by me.
This could have been a very devastating, life-changing event for me. From the bottom of my heart I can't thank Hart and Jill enough for making this turn out the way that it did. I did no jail time, no community service(!) and the fines were half of what I'd expected. Simply amazing. You can NOT do better than Hart Levin representing you!
Girly G.
We retained this firm to help with my sons second DUI case and probation violation.
Our attorney Matthew Cohen was the absolute best! right from he start he showed us what he can do. We were extremely happy with the results and with Matthew Cohen
Definitely this is the team to call.
Karinna Z.
Look no further! 1000% the best experience.
Can't even begin to explain how AMAZING this law office is. From start to finish, Hart personally helped me by easing the stress that is involved with a case like this. They appeared in court for me, informed me of everything every step of the way, and they were extremely honest about the entire process.
I had called a few other attorneys and they all made it sound so complicated. Not to mention that Hart has experience in the LA Court system and everyone knows who he is and he has earned a great level of respect from the Judges and DA.
Thank you to the entire office and to Hart for representing me so well and making the process so easy.
Highly recommended!
Recent reviews
The best attorney I\'ve ever worked with! Smart, kind, compassionate - and the best results. I couldn\'t be happier!!! Thank you!!
March 7, 2017


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I have been searching for ages for the perfect top to cover my extremely cool tie-dye leggings (I'm one of those people that can't have my bum showing whilst wearing leggings, not even if I'm 100% sure they aren't see through). I stumbled across this gem of a piece in Topshop, the top is quirky enough (with the cut out detail) to compliment my leggings but also simple enough not to 'out do' them.
I paired the outfit with my favourite boots of the moment from Office, they have literally not left my feet since buying them last weekend (comfy is an understatement!). And for accessories I decided to wear my chunky silver necklace and bracelet, as well as another cool new ring from my online store kilajewel.com.
|Top - Topshop
Leggings - Topshop
Boots - Office
Necklace - River Island
Bracelet - Market from Italy
|Ring - kilajewel.com


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Poll Ends: Wednesday, 1st October, 2008 12:30, the results so far are:
Conservative 1.8%
Labour 21.3%
Liberal Democrat 32.7%
Any other 0.3%
Fraser has been LibDem Councillor for the West End on Dundee City Council since 2001 and has topped the poll in all of the five council elections he has contested. He has served as the Council's Education Convener, Finance Convener and Planning and Transport Convener. Fraser was appointed a Bailie by the City Council in 2017, in recognition of his 16 years of service to constituents.
Another irrelevant blog entry … but an all time classic, from the late Patsy Cline.
Gordon Brown did his best today but the plaudits should really go to his wife. My favourite politician is Vince Cable, gravitas, substance and everything that 'new' Labour has long since lost. Judge for yourself.
We have had a bit of a debate about this - so Janet's competition of the week. Best version:
* Elvis Presley
* Willie Nelson
* Leon
* Michael Buble
* Ray Charles
* Dinah Shore
* Anyone else you care to think of - the song is brilliant and loads of people have recorded it
Votes on a postcard to my wife - email@example.com - she thinks the Elvis version is best, but some of us think Willie Nelson is rather superb.
Nick Clegg's Keynote Speech to the Liberal Democrat Federal Conference.
Tavish's speech to the Liberal Democrat Federal Conference - good stuff!
Congratulations to Iain Gray, winner of the poisoned chalice. Oh dear.
* Scottish Broadcasting Commission - recommends a Scottish network - potentially good for local TV
* 7th Mux - what is that? Why it means local TV for all instead of just 1 in 3
* Ofcom DDR consultation - Fife Tayside TV submission now submitted
You can read more at : www.tayscreen.com/page.cfm?page_ID=27&menu_ID=1
Another irrelevant blog entry but brilliant nonetheless!


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A Life of Adventure
I have always gravitated toward adventurous people, lured by a desire, the same way I always watch planes taking off with a bit of envy. Perhaps it is being able to live an adventure by being close to it. When I was young, Indiana Jones was one of my favorite movies and I watched Star Wars over and over. I read every Hardy Boy book I could get my hands on. I loved reading about their adventures and the dangerous mysteries they solved.
I love adventure. Most men do.
And women like adventure too. How many women have secretly longed to be swept up in a fairy tale romance? It is not just the romance aspect that excites them. It's the danger and excitement of the situation. A dashing hero rescues them from a wicked witch, an evil stepmother, a ferocious giant and takes them on an adventure.
That's why so many women in today's society go after bad men. Nice guys play it safe. Nice guys are boring. Nice guys don't have any fun. It's not always true, but it so often is. Women have the opposite perception and feeling when they meet a bad guy. Ooh! They are dangerous and exciting. Something is always about to happen around them. Flirting with that danger is an adventure that many women crave because it satisfies a longing within them to be part of something important and be worth saving.
So what is an adventurous spirit? Is it wanting to go hiking every weekend and preferring jeans and sneakers to a dress and high heels? No. Although, an adventurous spirit will see a mountain and want to climb it rather than go around it. That is a problem these days. So many of us want the quickest, easiest way around situations and problems in our life, rather than going through them, or over them. But that is the beauty and reward of an adventurous spirit. They realize the opportunity that mountains present and desire to grow and learn as people by pursuing these kind of challenges. The adventurous spirit wants to live life rather than avoid it.
A mountain takes effort and determination to climb, but the view at the top is incredible. Unencumbered by the confusion, noise, and distraction pressing in below, you can see clearly and far. What seemed like such a large mountain before, seems smaller and simpler from the top. When we struggle through our problems, it seems we grow and learn and equip ourselves so the problem doesn't seem so daunting or scary. But only the adventurous are willing to climb the mountain.
A friend asked me, "What do I do? I don't have any adventures to pursue. Nothing interesting ever happens around me." I asked him what all the great adventure stories had in common. A goal. Indiana Jones had a woman to rescue, a magical jewel to find, Luke Skywalker had a space station to destroy and a history to uncover. Adventure needs a goal to propel it forward. The danger and excitement will follow.
Goals require a dreamer. Someone willing to have aspirations that they want to pursue. And that's all of us. Some of us have forgotten them. We have allowed ourselves to become dulled by the things around us. We have allowed ourselves to become complacent in where we are and what we have now. We have allowed ourselves to let the pursuit of what the world values (money, position, recognition) steal our dreams. But those dreams still lurk within us, buried, yet eagerly hoping to get out. Because that is who we are. We are men built for dreaming.
Make no mistake, man is happiest when he is pursuing his dream, when he is on the adventure. It is at that time that he feels most alive. When he achieves it, he realizes what he was created for.
© Seth Crossman


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Overlooking beautiful Little Sabine Bay and located in the heart of Pensacola Beach, Cabana Inn is just steps away from shopping, dining, fishing charters and the boardwalk. Meeting facilities accommodates up to 75 people. Based on your dates of travel, you can check room rates and availability online for the Cabana Inn Pensacola Beach. Formerly the Comfort Inn Pensacola Beach.
If you require five or more rooms, find group rates with HotelPlanner.com.
|40 Fort Pickens Road
Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 | vCard |
|Getting There:
|Take I-10 exit 4 (I-110), to SR 98 East to Pensacola Beach exit. The Comfort Inn is located 2 miles on the right.
|Part of Chain:
|Comfort Inn
|Meeting Space:
|1 room. 1,000 sq. ft. total.
|Rate Range:
|From $79 to $169 per night *
|Nearest Airport:
|Pensacola Regional (PNS)
|In Rooms:
|Air-Conditioned. Complimentary Newspaper. Cable TV. Coffee Maker. Hair Dryer. Data Line.
|City Transportation. Valet/Laundry.
|Special Amenities:
|Complimentary Breakfast. Fitness Center. Golf Course. Pool, Outdoor.
|Other Info:
|Non-Smoking Rooms. Smoking Rooms. Self Parking.
|Area Hotels:
|(Profiles of 5 additional hotel options in the area of the Cabana Inn Pensacola Beach)
Pensacola Beach Resort
SpringHill Suites
ResortQuest Portofino
Paradise Inn
Hilton Garden Inn
|Credit Cards:
For additional hotel rates and availability, click here.
|Are you staging or managing an event at the Cabana Inn Pensacola Beach? To post your event(s) online, please click here.
|Navigation Links:
*Because rates may vary outside of the range, please confirm applicable rates online or via telephone.
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There are a few simple guidelines when creating a rain garden.
A rain garden is a great way to beautify your home, plus it helps absorb stormwater – keeping it out of storm sewers. The captured rain water filters down through the soil and into groundwater.Otherwise, stormwater ends up in the street where it picks up garbage and pollutants and dumps them into our streams, rivers and lakes.Learn how to build a rain garden by downloading this helpful manual:http://learningstore.uwex.edu/assets/pdfs/GWQ037.pdf
Pick a Good Site – Find a spot where the garden gets discharge from a downspout or runoff from the lawn, patio or driveway.
Call Diggers Hotline – (1-800-242-8511) at least three business days before you start digging.
Select the Plants – Pick out native plants that are drought tolerant.
Keep it Level – Dig 4-8 inches deep and heap the soil around the edge for a berm. The goal is a flat and level bottom.
Build a Berm – A berm is necessary to keep water in the garden so it can soak into the ground.
Space Properly – With the plants in their containers, set them one foot apart. Spread three inches of mulch throughout the garden and on the berm to keep in moisture and prevent weeds.
Give It Some TLC – Water immediately after planting and continue to water twice a week until the plants appear established or until a good rain. During the first year, water if there is an official drought. Do not water after the first year.
For a downloadable PDF file about how to create
a rain garden, click on the button above!
Respect Our Waters
Milwaukee area offices:
600 East Greenfield
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53204
Brought to you by:


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A.M. Creative Recap: John Reitzammer/
A.M. Creative Recap: John Reitzammer
Written by Felicia Ingram
John Reitzammer, simply put, is a creative who preserves memory. But there is more to his own history. For example, his name, Reitzammer, represents his heritage of German immigrants who settled south. Formerly the principal of Newbridge Biofilms in Miami, Florida, as well as the State Film Commissioner for the State of Florida, the documentarian started a new chapter in 2007 with New Bridge Bio Films. Reitzammer is not interested in telling the stories of the rich and famous. Instead, he chooses to preserve the distant memories of family and plain ol' regular folk.
His instrument of choice is a camera, and his subject is anyone with a memory to share. If a camera makes a person an artist, why then aren't there more compelling stories? But it doesn't. What Reitzammer has is the intangibles. Not everyone can take video captured on an iPhone from random ramblings to a seamless recollection of one thought.
Piece by piece, he stitches the story together weaving in scenes of old. What comes through every bit of Reitzmammer's work is his signature editing style. His LinkedIn page advertises him as a media producer, an accurate description for the variety of content he has created from "Jackson: First To Rock."
Today Reitzammer is creating memories in a different way in order to preserve the history of Jackson's historic rock-and-roll history. He wants people to know that Jackson isn't just a place where legends in Rockabilly once lived; according to him, Jackson is the birthplace of rock-and-roll. So he appropriately named his most recent film Jackson: First to Rock. During his presentation at July's A.M. Creative, Reitzammer shared the documentary telling Jackson's music story. The film included sounds cultivated in our backyard over sixty years ago. He described the music's origins as "white people who wanted to dance to country music" and blues sung by blacks in Jackson. This blend of sounds become the roots of the music loved by the world.
"Jackson: First To Rock" is displayed at The Carnegie Center for Arts & History in Jackson. The museum is under the vision of Jimmy Exum, the execution of Steve Little and Randy Williams who compiled the collection and is host to exhibits including the Carl Perkins exhibit. Reitzammer simply sees himself as a piece of the puzzle and the efforts of those to memorialize the history of Rock and Jackson's role in the American Music history.
Check out Reitzammer's work at newbridgebiofilms.com.


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Two weeks ago I went to a silent meditation retreat. During a group interview, one student asked the teacher, "I see all these stern faces and I wonder, where's the joy?" I loved his question. Meditation can seem so serious: turning inward, facing our hidden places, and staying no matter what. This is serious business. And it's also a pathway to joy.
Moments of wonder, joy, and awe cannot be manufactured. They occur spontaneously. And they're easy to miss. If I'm lost in thoughts, I don't feel wonder as I view the evening sky. If my heart is armored, I don't feel joy as I witness an act of kindness. If my mind is closed, I don't feel awe when I experience something new.
To feel joy, I must be aware and non-judgmental; I must pay attention. If I cram my schedule, limit meditation, and disconnect from myself, there's no space for joy. Where's the joy? It's in little moments when I'm fully present; it's in daily life when my heart is wide open; it's in raw places when I feel the preciousness of human life.
Joy isn't forced laughter or planned fun. Joy isn't having things exactly as we want them to be. Joy happens in spacious awareness--when we're cracked open with grief or when we walk silently in nature. It's all around us, if we really pay attention; if we allow for our experience to be just as it is.


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Here is a pic of my current mani: I'm wearing China Glaze Wagon Trail (dark, shimmery olive-y goodness) and as an accent on my thumbs and ring fingers, I've got Impala (a Brazilian brand) I am totally in love with the Impala polish! I was lucky enough to spend August in Brazil with my hubby's family, and even luckier to score some awesome polish.
I don't think there are enough adjectives to describe how amazing this polish is. At first I thought it was my answer to a black linear holo, but it looks more like a mix between a linear and scattered holo. Also, once I applied it, I saw that not only is it holographic, it also has an awesome, camera-shy pink flash to it. It looks to be on the sheer side, but I've only worn it layered over dark colors (I'm scared of it finishing!) I should've purchased a back-up bottle, but ya know hindsight being 20/20 and all... Here is a close up of it on my thumb.
I've also included a bottle shot as well. I know that several Brazilian brands are being offered on Llarowe , but unfortunately Impala is not one of them. Boy, did I clean up shop in Brazil! I also picked up two different flaky polishes from Impala as well a good amount from the Speciallita HITS collection (flakies in a colored base). If only the HITS MariMoon and the HITS No Olimpo had been out when I was in Porto Alegre...
My opinion: Na Mira 3D applied a little thin on the first coat but was good in two coats. I can't speak for the drying time since I always use Poshé quick dry top coat. It dries smooth and removal is not difficult. If you can get it, I highly recommend it!


text:
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manufacturer, distributor,
importer and exporter,
Saf-T-Gard is uniquely capable
and committed to quality, value and
service excellence.
Our vast product selection includes first quality products in compliance with applicable American and International safety standards. We offer nearly every major brand in the industry, as well as an expanded range of Saf-T-Gard products that combine industry standard quality with unsurpassed value. Some of our key products are shown below.
Full Product Line Card
A concise listing of our general product line and
factory-direct brand names supplied.
get details
download Product Line Card PDF
The Voltgard division of Saf-T-Gard supplies rubber insulating products, related accessories and dielectric testing services.
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Stainless Steel Mesh Safety Products
Our namesake product line features the ultimate in protection from cuts and punctures.
get details
Solva-Gard® Chemical Resistant Nitrile Gloves
Solva-Gard® gloves protect against the widest variety of industrial chemicals and provide superior resistance to abrasion, cuts, punctures and snags.
get details
Ambi-Gard® Disposable Gloves
The Ambi-Gard® product line includes nitrile, vinyl,
natural rubber and polyethylene disposable gloves in
both medical and industrial grades. Most styles are also available either pre-powdered or powder-free.
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Send mail to firstname.lastname@example.com with questions, comments or suggestions for this website.
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Phone: 1-800-548-4273 or 1-847-291-1600 | Fax: 1-888-548-4273 or 1-847-291-1610


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That's right, we're celebrating Seumas' masterpiece by making it completely free and open source!
If you haven't tried it yet, now's the time to get all 20 tanks and 58 maps for free. Get online and wreak havoc!
Currently it's only available on Windows, but it's almost compatible with Mac and Linux. If you think you can help, go ahead and download the code from GitHub. Patches welcome!
Tread Marks was designed to be modifiable by end-users, unlike most games produced by large companies which are highly restrictive of end-user modification. Making modifications to Tread Marks isn't the same as modifying Quake and Quake-based games, though. While it takes a bit of skill to make even a simple modification to Quake (since the files are packed into a single-file archive), the files in Tread Marks are out in the open, so even a novice can make simple changes to the way the game looks and plays. On the other hand, Tread Marks (currently) lacks the ability to have its game source code modified the way Quake can, so advanced programmers don't have the freedom to do whatever they want yet. Large aspects of the way the game looks and plays can be changed without any programming though (e.g. explosion and smoke effects, all weapon types and behaviors, tank speeds and armor, world gravity and friction).
The Full version of the game supports the "AddOns" directory, which will be searched before any of the main content directories. If you want to modify or override a file, copy or create the new version in the AddOns directory, with the same relative path as in its original location. This may require creating a few new folders in the AddOns folder to get the full path as the original file. For .ENT files, it should work to simply copy the .ent file into the base AddOns\Entities\ folder, as the file names of .ent files don't actually matter, only their contents. For the majority of modifications you will only need to edit .ent files, or add new Bitmaps, Sounds, or Models of your own. Entity files are simple text files, so when you double click on a .ent file you should choose to open it in Notepad or WordPad. The Full version includes a different readme.txt file in each Entity sub-directory that contains info on what the various parameters in the .ent files do.
We've received a lot of mixed feedback about the default physics settings in Tread Marks; some of you like the low friction that lets you do power-slides and skid turns, and some of you seem to want tighter, easier to handle controls that are more like a real tank than a Racing Tank. In an effort to make everyone happy, we've put together a little easy-download modification that doubles the game's default friction, giving you much more responsive controls (especially at high speeds). This modification works with both the Shareware Demo and the Full version. Simply click the link below to download the file (you may need to right-click it if your browser tries to view it as text), then follow these steps: If you have the Full version of the game, copy the file into the "AddOns\Entities\" directory in your Tread Marks folder. If you have the Shareware Demo, copy the file into the "Entities\TankGod\" folder, overwriting the old file there.
Please let us know what you think of the SuperFriction mod, and feel free to edit the file to try other amounts of friction and gravity as well. We'd like to know what you prefer, and we may add an in-game selection for friction in a future version.
If you plan to distribute your modification to others, please design your modification for the Full version of the game. The Shareware Demo version isn't intended to be fully modifiable, and it has some limitations on what can be changed and added. Also, please do NOT distribute tweaked, edited, or file-copied Bitmaps (.bmp, .img), Sounds (.wav), or Models (.lwo, .luv), from any version of the game. Distributing edited Entity (.ent) files is okay. This means you can't simply make an editing change to a Bitmap, Sound, or Model that is Copyright by LDA and then redistribute it, as it is a derivative work and still under Copyright. Imagine if someone's "modification" was simply all the files from the Full version with a few edits in each, and you'll get the drift. It is okay to create an all-new file with the same name as an LDA file with the intention of overriding it. If you want to distribute an edited LDA file or two (e.g. an edited intro screen or menu background for your mod) try asking for our permission. Note: Texture Bitmaps which are used by the original game as Racing Tank tesxtures are excluded from the above restrictions. This means it is OK to slightly modify (e.g. add a logo) a Tank Skin and to redistribute it for free.
LDA is not responsible for the content of user mods.


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WARSAW (Reuters) - One miner died and six were injured on Saturday after a tremor struck KGHM's copper mine Rudna, southwest Poland, around 700 metres underground, the company's spokeswoman said.
"The rescue operation has ended. Six people were injured and the seventh miner unfortunately died," Anna Osadczuk said.
(Reporting by Anna Koper; Editing by Ros Russell)


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Host a Clean Your Block Party/
Keep America Beautiful has just launched it's Great American Cleanup program for 2016. During the months of March, April, and May volunteers across the county will have the opportunity to participate in events that focus on litter cleanups, planting plants for beautification, and reducing waste. The Great American Cleanup is the country's largest community improvement program that kicks off in more than 20,000 communities and engages more than 4 million volunteers each year.
Jennifer M. Jehn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Keep America Beautiful states, "It is humbling to see the millions of volunteers that turn out each year to our affiliate's Great American Cleanup events. We look forward to a very rewarding 2016 with increased participant engagement, more impactful projects and to taking measurable steps to ensuring each community is a clean, green and beautiful place to live."
This year's Great American Cleanup theme is "Clean Your Block Party". This initiative provides the best practices, activity ideas, and online toolkits to help anyone conduct a Great American Cleanup event in their neighborhood. Learn how to host your own cleanup by downloading the volunteer fact sheet at www.kab.org. The simple guide outlines how to host your own litter cleanup, plant trees, and even revitalize a park with tips for what to do before the event and the day of the event.
Keep Dalton-Whitfield Beautiful, the local Keep America Beautiful affiliate encourages residents to volunteer or attend one of the following events where they will find the Clean Your Block Party guide and learn from other local volunteers.
• Saturday, March 19: Make your home a greener and cleaner place to live by properly dispose of old paint, swimming pool chemicals, and other household hazardous waste at the Old Dixie Hwy. Landfill and Convenience Center's household hazardous waste facility from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm. Learn more at www.dwswa.org or call 706-277-2545. The next collection days are April 16, and May 21.
• Friday, March 25: Clean up with Dalton State College's Alpha Kappa Lambda Fraternity at Lakeshore Park in Dalton starting at 11:00 am. While this litter cleanup is for the club member's other volunteers are welcome to participate. They will meet by the turf soccer field towards the center of the park.
• Saturday, March 26: A second cleanup day with the DSC Fraternity, but this time at Al Rollins Park in Dalton also starting at 11:00 am. Non-club members are welcomed to join in the litter cleanup efforts. They will meet at the picnic tables near the parking area.
• Saturday, April 2: Community Cleanup along Emery St. with St. Mark's Episcopal Church and The New Georgians Apartments. They'll start at 9:30 am with a litter cleanup along Emery St. and a trail cleanup at the apartments. Look for the signs that say Community Cleanup.
• Monday, April 18: Learn how to reduce waste in your home by transforming an old t-shirt into a reusable shopping bag or a scarf during a free Earth Day DIY Class at the Bradley Wellness Center in celebration of Earth Day. Bring an old shirt or two and a good pair of scissors, no sewing required. Register by calling 706-278-9355.
• Sunday, April 24: Visit the Keep Dalton-Whitfield Beautiful booth at Ecumenical Earth Day from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm to learn how you can help stop litter and receive a free litter bag for your car. This annual celebration is hosted by Christ The King Lutheran Church on Thornton Ave. in Dalton. This free family-friendly event includes the participation of many other local organizations with exhibits that teach about conservation, recycling, wildlife and insects, hiking and biking on nearby trails, native fauna, and more.
Shaw Industries is conducting several Adopt a Mile litter cleanups in Dalton for local employees. If you're a Shaw employee, please contact Liz Swafford at 706-278-5001 so she can put you in touch with the Shaw representative for Adopt a Mile. They will have a cleanup in late March and have several throughout the year.
After you attend an event you can host your own Clean Your Block Party this spring with neighborhoods friends, and family. Call Keep Dalton-Whitfield Beautiful at 706-278-5001 for some helpful information on having your own cleanup and possibly getting some supplies. Together we can show our hometown some love and make our community a more vibrant place to live.


text: "Yes sir I can boogie" - Baccara ! we've all heard it, but now we can see who was moaning in the vocal booth. please someone remind me which huge disco hit these chords replicate. was it "don't leave me this way"? I play the ell out of this track and it always makes me laugh in the best way!!!- lady miss kier


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Bonecreek Museum of Agrarian Art Exhibit/
The Bonecreek Museum of Agrarian Art in David City, Nebraska is celebrating Nebraska's 150th birthday with an exhibition titled "150 Artists, 150 Artworks, 150 Years of Nebraska Art in Miniature." My piece, North of Town, was accepted for the exhibition, wahoo, so fun! I am honored and grateful.
This painting is a scene very close to where we live. It was a foggy morning and I was out and about with my camera. As the fog started to dissipate, the sun came out behind me and lit up the road and the fields with beautiful warm light. The fog was still hanging in the distance making for a dramatic contrast. I'm not sure my painting does it justice. I really enjoyed painting it.
The exhibition with 150 pieces of art will be on display at the museum from May 3 through July 30, 2017, with an artist reception scheduled for July 29, 2017. I'm looking forward to seeing all those artworks. I have visited this museum and it is lovely and would be worth your while to go for a visit. I'll be posting more about that as the time approaches.


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Blade Runner 2049 Trailer Teaser
May 5, 2017 - Movies, Sci-fi,
Author: Theo
More teasing of Blade Runner 2
Happy Cinco de Mayo all, is Warner Bros. making it hard to get your work done lately? All these trailers and teasers. The latest addition is the Blade Runner 2049 trailer teaser. Just 15 seconds of enjoyment until the next official trailer is released in 3 days (May 8th). Thirty years after the events of the first film, a new blade runner (hopefully as good as the first) played by Ryan Gosling goes in search of a long-buried secret that could just blow up in his face.
And have you seen these teaser posters yet? Blade Runner 2 arrives in theaters on October 6th, 2017.


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- Rooms
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- Weddings
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- Blog
Nestled along the sunny Pacific Coast in northern San Diego and named one of the Top 15 Best San Diego Hotels, Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach is a top choice for the California resort traveler who seeks the unique. Our Carlsbad resort is only 150 steps to the surf and features balcony rooms with ocean views, on-site dining on at Chandler's, and our very own Travel & Escape Top 5-Rated Spa, Ocean Crest Spa.
Cape Rey Carlsbad resort places you minutes from LEGOLAND® California Resort and the historic Del Mar Race Track, while a short drive will bring you to SeaWorld® San Diego, the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, famous regional wineries, and award-winning craft breweries. For adventurous types, we have plenty to offer you, including local deep-sea fishing, sailboat cruises, horseback riding, paddle boarding, snorkeling, surfing lessons, and kayak explorations.
Take in the views, adventure, delectable eats, and pure relaxation at our ocean-view hotel in Carlsbad.
Beautiful hotel with great cuisine (Chandlers Restaurant) Everyone from the valet to front desk and restaurant servers are very nice. Rooms are super clean and spacious. The bathroom is very luxurious and there's a microwave and small freezer.
The Cape Rey Hilton is one of the most picturesque places to stay. You can get a room with a balcony that has the perfect view of the ocean. You can walk to the ocean in 5 minutes. There is nothing like waking up to the sound of waves from the ocean and watching the sunset over the ocean in the evening.
We had such a wonderful time here, felt like we were at a 5 star resort. We live in Carlsbad, but felt we were on a little vacation far away. Room was very clean, we had a ocean view. The gym and spa are amazing. Pool is beautiful. 100 percent will visit again.


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5 Reasons to Buy the Dow's Top Stock (and 1 Reason Not to)
McDonald's (NYS: MCD) has been the best-performing stock in the Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEX: ^DJI) over the past one- and five-year periods ending in 2011. Last year alone, the company delivered a total return of 35%.
Last week, the company reported that February sales came in lighter than expected due to weakness in Europe. Shares declined by 3%, which led many investors to wonder whether now is a good time to buy stock in this top performer. Below are five compelling reasons to pick up shares right now.
1. Outstanding performance. Despite the recent weakness in Europe, McDonald's is currently firing on all cylinders. In 2011, revenues increased by 12%, and operating income increased by 14%. Total comparable sales improved last year by 5.6%, which marked the eighth consecutive year of positive comp sales growth. Clearly, this is a company with a proven track record of outperformance. With a P/E of 18.3, McDonald's may appear a bit expensive, though it's considerably less pricey than Chipotle (NAS: CMG) and Yum! Brands (NYS: YUM) , which trade at P/Es of 59 and 25, respectively.
2. Attractive business model. McDonald's is known for having some of the best operating margins in the fast-food industry. This remarkable profitability is driven by its incredibly successful franchising model. In a recent interview, investing luminary Bill Ackman said he loves businesses like McDonald's, where you can charge a royalty on other people's sales. According to its most recent 10-K, 27,075 of the company's 33,510 restaurants were franchised or licensed. Revenues from the franchised restaurants include rent, royalties, and initial fees. Clearly, this model seems to be working very well for McDonald's and its shareholders.
3. Solid dividend yield. Currently, the company delivers a dividend yield of 2.9%, which compares nicely with Dow stalwarts Procter & Gamble and Coca-Cola, which have yields of 3.1% and 2.9%, respectively. The overall average for the Dow is 2.86%. Last year, McDonald's increased its quarterly cash dividend by 15%.
4. International growth opportunities. McDonald's is truly a global business, with 68% of its total revenue in 2011 coming from outside the United States. In the future, there is considerable growth potential in its Asia-Pacific/Middle East/Africa region, which was able to grow sales by 19% in 2011. In China alone, the company plans to open between 225 and 250 restaurants in 2012.
5. An enduring brand. As an 18-month-old, my daughter could already recognize the golden arches. Such is the power of this iconic brand. According to Interbrand, McDonald's is ranked No. 6 in its listing of the top 10 global brands for 2011, due to its reputation for consistency, quality, and consumer responsiveness.
As you can see, McDonald's looks like an excellent long-term buy from just about every angle you look at it. Here's one reason, however, why investors might take a pass:
Health and wellness trends may hurt McDonald's over the long term. Let's face it: This food is really, really bad for you. So far, the company has done an excellent job in addressing this public concern, but investors must consider whether McDonald's will be facing increasing regulation and public opposition over the longer term. A recent shareholder proposal raised concerns about McDonald's contributing to childhood obesity and diet-related diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Will governments around the globe begin to intensify their oversight of fast food? Will increased education about the dangers of sodium, fat, and sugar ultimately curtail the company's growth?
One little pie won't hurt -- will it?
From a purely investing point of view, I suspect that the reasons for buying McDonald's shares far outweigh any concerns about long-term nutritional trends. There definitely will be more regulation in the future, but the company has shown itself to be very effective in dealing with opposition. Right now, it seems like burgers, nuggets, and fries are here to stay.
Personally, however, I'm somewhat unsure about this company, and I wouldn't invest in its stock. McDonald's is a well-operated business, but its most popular products are extremely unhealthy. In the restaurant space, I'm more comfortable investing in Chipotle, which appears to have a far more sustainable approach.
McDonald's may or may not be for you, but if you're interested in learning more about additional dividend-paying stocks, then you should take a look at our latest free report. Just click here to get 11 additional dividend stock ideas.
At the time this article was published John Reeves owns shares in Procter & Gamble and Chipotle. You can follow him on Twitter where he goes firstname.lastname@example.com Motley Fool owns shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill and Coca-Cola.Motley Fool newsletter serviceshave recommended buying shares of Yum! Brands, Coca-Cola, McDonald's, Chipotle Mexican Grill, and Procter & Gamble. Try any of our Foolish newsletter servicesfree for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe thatconsidering a diverse range of insightsmakes us better investors. The Motley Fool has adisclosure policy.
Copyright © 1995 - 2012 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.


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We all loved Anne. She was warm, kind, and a beautiful soul. Please share your favorite memory of Anne with her family & friends.
Share a Story
If you would like to share an Anne story with us, please fill out the form below and we'll post it shortly to our memorial site. If you have photos you would like to share, please state that in your submission and Dave will email about it.


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Rialto Chatter: Bill T. Jones-Helmed SUPER FLY Coming to Broadway in 2013?
According to BroadwayGirlNYC, SUPER FLY, the musical based on the 1972 film directed by GorDon Parks, is coming to Broadway in late 2013. The Mottola Group and The Dodgers Developmental Lab held a developmental workshop for the show last Spring. Bill T. Jones, who also helmed the workshop, will direct and choreograph, as Tommy Mottola just announced on the Howard Stern Show.
Super Fly features a book from Seth Zvi Rosenfeld and musical direction from Ron Melrose.
Jones is a multi-talented artist, choreographer, dancer, theater director and writer, has received major honors ranging from a 1994 MacArthur "Genius" Award to Kennedy Center Honors in 2010. He was inducted into the American Academy of Arts & Sciences in 2009. His ventures into Broadway Theater resulted in a 2010 Tony Award for Best Choreography in the critically acclaimed FELA! He also earned a 2007 Tony Award for Best Choreography in Spring Awakening as well as an Obie Award for the show's 2006 off-Broadway run.
In addition to creating more than 140 works for the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company, Jones has received numerous commissions to create dances for modern and ballet companies, including Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Boston Ballet, Lyon Opera Ballet, Berlin Opera Ballet, and the Ravinia Festival which commissioned and premiered Fondly Do We Hope...Fervently Do We Pray in 2009. He last helmed Broadway's award-winning Fela!


text: Yep, see us! On Flickr that is. We uploaded photos from the recent 2012 Las Vegas Conference and Trade Show held November 8th and 9th at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, NV. Take a look and see if we caught you networking at the Trade Show. You can find The ESOP Association's Flickr page here. Below is a preview.


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Missed one of the speakers during the week? Want to watch the GEOINT Symposium keynote addresses?
Latest News RSS
November 10, 2009
Watch the GEOINT 2009 Keynotes Online
November 2, 2009
Winners Announced in the 2009 USGIF Geospatial Intelligence Awards Program
The United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation announced the winners of its 2009 USGIF Awards Program at the GEOINT 2009 Symposium.
Read more about this year's winners here.
October 20, 2009
Charles Allen Presented With 2009 USGIF Lifetime Achievement Award
USGIF announced during GEOINT 2009 Mr. Charles E. Allen, former Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Intelligence and Analysis, as the recipient of the 2009 USGIF Lifetime Achievement Award.


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Inquiry: Terrorists Exploited Israeli Soldiers' Benevolence
by Algemeiner Staff
The Israeli soldier killed on Friday in an attack by terrorists who opened fire near the border with Egypt has been identified as Corporal Netanel Yahalomi, and an IDF inquiry into Friday's incident shows that the terrorists – all of whom were killed by IDF forces – waited for people attempting to cross into Israel illegally to receive attention from IDF personnel, and then opened fire on the remaining IDF soldiers at a border post.
"He went to defend the State and land. That is what he fought and was killed for," Natanel's sister Avital said on Friday. "He died so we could live here. It was not an unnecessary death. God will give us the power to cope."
A group of terrorists followed 15 people attempting to cross the border into Israel illegally from Egypt. When a number of IDF soldiers left their post to hand out water to the people trying to cross the border, only 4 soldiers were left at the post, which was then fired at by the terrorists.
IDF Spokesperson Brigadier-General Yoav Mordechai said on Friday that the terrorists were carrying rifles, grenades and extra rounds.
Related coverage
"They were on a major killing spree, but were killed within 15 minutes from the moment they fired the first shot," he said.
The slain Israeli's family was alerted to the death just hours before Shabbat and spoke with the media from their home in the religious community of Nof Ayalon.
"Netanel was born in Bnei Brak, and then we moved to Nof Ayalon," his father Shmuel Yahalomi said. "He was a Torah student at the Mitzpe Yeriho Yeshiva. "He insisted on serving in a combat unit and joined the Artillery Corps, where I also served."


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We love a good party and this year we are thrilled to be a part of the Cedros Design District's annual Holiday Open House! There is so much to see and do this year, I feel like I need bullet points!
- Trunk Show with Parpala Jewelry - Delicate and feminine, Parpala Jewelry is perfect for layering and with price points starting around $40, it's the perfect gift for all the ladies on your list!
- Pop-Up Beauty Lounge with EC Stylebar - If you haven't met the ladies behind EC Stylebar, your missing out! This mother daughter duo is the go to for all your hair and make-up needs and their mobile beauty salon is SoCal cool! They will be on hand doing braids, updo's, make-up touch-ups, false lashes and more, plus they will be offering booking specials for all your holiday parties!
- Live music from Zack David because every good party needs an amazing sound track!
- Gourmet Food trucks in the parking lot including Casanova Fish Tacos and The Grater Grilled Cheese
- In store discounts & raffles (not just us, but all the shops in the 'hood)! We'll have some special in store promotions and we're raffling off a custom JCM fedora


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In the July 2010 issue of ONE Peter Lemieux reported on the fearless work of the Deivadan Sisters in Kerala, India and the community that stands with them:
Siji Valavanal and her two daughters visit the Deivadan Home in Thankamany, in the Idukki District, a few afternoons each week. Established four years ago, the home takes in abandoned elderly women. On those days, Mrs. Valavanal picks up her daughters, 5-year-old Anna and 12-year-old Irin, from school and takes them to the market, where they purchase sacks of rice, tapioca, vegetables and other staples. They then head over to the Deivadan Home, knock on the door and offer the groceries. But more important for Mrs. Valavanal, she and her daughters stay awhile and visit with some of the residents.
Anna, wearing a bright pink-checkered dress, and Irin, wearing a pretty green dress, approach the bedside of a reclining resident. The frail woman sits up, reaches her hands out and clutches Irin's hands. Irin smiles. She then gently caresses Anna's cheeks. Anna blushes. The elderly woman beams.
On any given day, visitors drop in unannounced. Some bring sacks of rice, while others offer financial support. Together, as a community, they keep afloat these homes for the abandoned elderly. Some, such as Mrs. Valavanal and her daughters, have adopted the residents as additional parents and grandparents and stop by regularly.
"We're happy when we come here. We sit and enjoy their company, feel their pain and hear their problems," explains Mrs. Valavanal.
"Nowadays, society is always looking at the top level, not the low levels. Most people want to make relations with those with status, not to serve those in need. I want to create in my daughters' minds the desire to serve others," she says, echoing the wisdom of Father Kaippenplackal's mother. For that lesson, Mrs. Valavanal could not have found her daughters better teachers than the Deivadan Sisters.
For more from this story, see, Fearless Grace by Peter Lemieux.
Tags: India Sisters Caring for the Elderly


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"When a relationship doesn't work out, we all know what we do—take a break, introspect, maybe cheat, and then call it off. In a marriage, it isn't so simple. There are the fat wedding albums, the memories of shared stresses, the hungry relatives searching for scraps of scandal, the terrified parents and the stigma of
Dealing with changing priorities
Madhumitha Prasad got married when she was 24 years old. In the eight years since then, she has had a child, moved cities thrice, moved countries once, and gone back to work. She feels an early marriage makes sense. And 24 didn't strike her as particularly early, because most of her friends were also getting
You can't hide and seek
At 28, Smriti Rao was doing very well in her career. A branding and talent development consultant, she had lived in four metros over the past few years, and worked in fields that ranged from education to brand management to corporate training. Her professional life was on a high, but she was beginning to feel
Peeling of the gloss
Sara Jacob, now 29, was used to looking out for herself Raised in Kuwait, she moved to India to do her under graduation. She headed off to England to do a Master's degree, and when she returned, at 23, the questions began.
From the artiste's eye: scripting a successful marriage
Writer and poet Ruhani Kapoor met Saadhil Khosla through relatives. They happened to be in the same town at the same time, it was suggested they meet, and soon they were married and settled in New York. Both were in their early twenties, and each worked in completely different industries.
From the artiste's eye: staying in tandem
An arranged marriage may be easy enough for the regular girl with a regular job. But what if you don't fit into the staple mould? What if you're a writer, dancer, painter or musician?
In a new country
When Meera Anthony came across Arnav Joseph's profile on a matrimonial site, she had already turned down several men who wanted to know what her hobbies were.


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Dawson and Gretchen's eyes locked. Heat radiated from his eyes and penetrated into hers. His bedroom was dully lit. Only one yellow lamp illuminated the right side of their faces to a burnt orange glow. Gretchen's heart pounded in her chest, the beating sound rung in her ears. Slow, fast, faster...soft, hard, harder....quiet, loud, and louder. Her mouth slightly agape, her breathing matched the pace of her thumping heart. Fingertips curled into palms, long nails grazing the soft skin. She attempted to control the wild pulsation of her heart. Dawson listened to her breath and broke their fiery stare just to peruse the way her body curved beneath her tight blue jeans and v-neck shirt. He brought his eyes back up to hers and snaked a single hand around her leg, right above her knee. Dawson too felt a throbbing in his chest, and his breathing quickened to where it eventually matched Gretchen's. Their eyes danced, searching for some sort of sign. The room suddenly felt hot, or maybe it was the heat of their bodies. The air was heavy and thick with romance mixed with pure sexual desire. Gretchen licked her lips slightly. The tip of her tongue touched the rim of the inside of her mouth, and she brought it back into her mouth as she pressed her lips together, spreading and dulling the shine of the gloss. Dawson's eyes became fixated on her full lips as they separated, springing back to their normal position. Gretchen's breathing was slower now, but deeper. Again her lips parted a little in order to obtain more air. Involuntarily, his hand tightened its grasp on her leg. He looked back up at her large brown eyes. They were wide with excitement, longing and desire. Two small spots of yellow light decorated her pupils. Gretchen broke their gaze and dropped her eyes to whereDawson's hand lay. She uncurled her right hand and placed it softly on top of the hand that held her leg. The muscles in Dawson's hand relaxed automatically. Lifting her seductive, suggesting eyes back up to his, she slowly guided his hand up her leg to her inner thigh, his fingers tickling her skin through her coarse jeans. She saw him swallow nervously and felt his hand tense. For comfort, Gretchen left her hand on his. Dawson didn't know why he felt so nervous, but he was heating up and breathing heavier. He wet his dry lips. His fingers moved in small, slow, and soft back and forth patterns on her inner thigh and he inched forward towards Gretchen. He wouldn't move his eyes from hers. Their stare was full of fever. Now it was Gretchen who swallowed as Dawson brought his free hand up to Gretchen's face. He traced the contours of her lips with his thumb. Delicately, the tip of his thumb lingered along the smooth, curving line of her lower lip and back again over the same path. The pulsations of her heart accelerated. Dawson then slid his palm along her cheek to brush some auburn hair away from her neck, his fingers entangling in the silky strands. Soft fingertips glided over the sensitive skin on her neck, and Gretchen's body tingled from head to toe. Gretchen firmly placed her free palm on Dawson's chest in between his lightly defined pectoral muscles. He liked the feeling of the pressure on his chest. With her arm extended and hand touching him, it was as if a sudden current was flowing between them. Their energy was transferred back and forth, nonstop. He began to lean both his body and his face in closer to her. Still, their intense stare was never broken. Little by little, Dawson's lips came closer to Gretchen's. Because she kept her eyes so intently on his, she could only sense how close he was by the heat of his breath on her mouth. And his breath was hot. Dawson's eyes slid shut and teasingly he grazed his lips against Gretchen's. He retraced the path his lips had taken. With each slow, back and forth brush that lingered on her lips, Gretchen wanted Dawson more. She moved her face closer to his and that's when their lips finally locked. His tongue parted her lips slightly to where the tips touched. Taunting her, he then retracted. Again she leaned forward, begging for more. He repeated his previous action, over and over. Just when Gretchen thought she was going to explode, Dawson deepened their kiss. Their tongues danced slowly, passionately, and deeply. Her lips tasted sweet to him. Gretchen's hand, the one that was positioned on Dawson's chest, curled slightly, taking the cotton of his shirt in her grasp. She moved her other hand to his cheek. He ran his hand up and down her leg while the other pushed her closer to him. Their kiss was full and both Dawson's and Gretchen's senses tingled with pleasure. She didn't want to stop kissing him. He didn't want to stop kissing her. And they didn't stop. They kissed.
I hope you enjoyed "The Kiss". Please don't hesitate to tell me what you think!


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You all know the music awards.. the Grammys. Because of your help we submitted FIRE IN THE RAINSTORM. FYC - For your Consideration Grammy voters...
58th Grammys® - FYC
Kori Carothers
A musician's path to her/his muse is sometimes an easy one. Other times, it is filled with potential pitfalls or unexpected obstacles. Kori Linae Carothers faced just that when, during a kindergarten health screening at the age of 5, it was discovered she was deaf in her left ear. Her young peers found out and the teasing began. In addition, throughout elementary and high school, Kori was constantly told she would never become a musician. Undeterred, she kept learning and practicing, never surrendering her dream. Despite these discouragements, Carothers was passionate about her calling and now, years later, she is an acclaimed pianist and keyboard player with four albums to her credit. Clearly, she is an example of a person following her muse with courage, humor, and determination. - Bill Binkelman