text:
CEO Brian Chesky on Why Airbnb Works 'Surprisingly Well'
In just four years, Airbnb has grown from three guests staying at CEO and co-founder Brian Chesky's apartment to a service that has allowed people to stay in others' homes for more than 10 million nights worldwide. Airbnb now has 500 employees and recently raised money at a $1.3 billion valuation.
Chesky explained at Fortune Brainstorm Tech how he started Airbnb. When he moved to San Francisco, he only had $1,000 in the bank but rent on his apartment was $1,150. The International Design Conference was coming to town and he and his roommate, co-founder Joe Gebbia, had three airbeds. So, they built a website in 72 hours and sheltered their first three customers. "We got paid to monetize the space we already had," he said.
It ended up being the right idea at the right time. "What if you could book someone's home the same way you book a hotel, anywhere in the world?" he asked. His advice for entrepreneurs is not to look for big markets, but find your own problems and solve them. "The difference between us and everyone else is we experienced it."
He is focused on providing an amazing experience in the travel business. Inspired by Walt Disney's creation of Snow White, he uses storyboards to help figure out how to plan the best travel experience. "People like to stay in homes," Chesky said. "That's why they live in homes."
Despite the apparent fast growth, the company tried to grow slowly. It has had a lot of slow times, and was initially financed on his credit cards. He spent nine months living in apartments he found on Airbnb, which gave him good insight into his customers.
His biggest mistake was in the summer of 2009 when he noticed there were people who were renting 100 apartments on the site, so for about six months, the company went after property management groups. Property managers wanted different features and didn't deliver the personal experience of homes, so that turned out to be a distraction. The company focused back on individuals instead.
Asked by Fortune's Leigh Gallagher about the potential for government regulation and taxing, he said Airbnb wants to be transparent and create something where the traveler, the host, and the neighborhood all win. He believes Airbnb has helped save thousands of homes from foreclosure.
Asked if people have had bad experiences with Airbnb, Chesky said, "The thing that surprises everyone is how well this works." He noted the importance of using real names, just like on eBay. With 50,000 people staying at an Airbnb residence every night, there have obviously been problems, he said. In one high-profile incident, someone's home was trashed, leading to a $50,000 theft and vandalism policy (now expanded to a $1 million policy covering theft, vandalism, and accidental damag).
He compared the growth of Airbnb to eBay in a number of ways, and said that it is growing faster after four years. He thinks it can be bigger than eBay.


text:
The Busy Parent's Guide To Exercising With Kids
Being a parent, do you find it difficult to fit exercise time into your chaotic schedule? Here's how you can incorporate exercising, back in your life and this time around, together with your kids.
Being a parent, do you find it difficult to fit exercise time into your chaotic schedule? Here's how you can incorporate exercising, back in your life and this time around, together with your kids.
Being a parent wreaks havoc with your routine. Whether you are parents to a new-born, a pre-schooler or a teenager; the urge to find time for your needs will always be suppressed by the necessity to cater to those of your child's. At such times exercising is the last thing on your mind.
However, if you want to be fit and healthy to be able to play together and be there for your children as they grow older; good health is very important and so is the need for you to get back to exercising soon. Also, as parents you can not ignore the fact that, just like adults, kids too require regular exercising of over an hour of physical activity every day. Keeping this mind, what better can it get if both parents and kids can exercise together and add loads of fun to this family regime.
|Fitness Trivia: The percentage of overweight and obese kids and teens has more than doubled over the past 30 years. Children are on an average spending 6 hours a day doing sedentary things like TV, computers, and video games. Children who exercise do better in school, control themselves better, and have fewer behaviour issues. A child, who exercises at least an hour a day, has 75 percent less chance of being overweight as an adult. Exercise may help prolong your life: people who engage in physical activity for 7 hours per week have a 40 percent lower chance of dying early, than people who are active for less than 30 minutes a week.
Together as a family you can take time out from your busy schedules and try some of these kid-friendly activities with your children. Soon you'll realise how making room for some fun filled family exercise time, benefits your family in the long run.
Exercising with your infant or toddler
Exercising with your infant around will imbibe in the child the importance of exercising from a very early age. You could use the following tips on exercising with infants:
- Walk as much as you can. Brisk walk when you take your baby out on the stroller.
- As baby grows a little older, its best to carry the little one in a baby sling on your back as you take your daily walk. The extra weight will help you burn more calories.
- When in the park, push your toddler in the swing and do a squat after every push.
- Dance with your toddler. Put on some music and while your baby dances his own way, you make sure you catch up on your aerobics. It would be a fun- filled fitness activity for both of you.
- Exercise while your child sleeps. Home videos, treadmill and skipping ropes could be of aid.
- Squats and tricep dips take just 15 minutes; instead of ignoring them, take out some time as the baby plays in the crib.
Exercising with your pre-school and school going kids:
Children in the age group of 4-10 enjoy physical activity, but in the form of play. Hence one needs to be a little creative with the workouts in this case.
- Kids in this age group can easily pick up stretching exercises and would love to join you as you do some toe-touching, shoulder and neck rotating exercises as well.
- There is no harm fixing a 15 minute exercise time for the whole family together where you teach your kids some basic exercises and yoga as well.
- Go the parks or playgrounds everyday and ensure you exercise while your child plays about.
- You could enjoy playing a ball game along with your child and his friends.
- Go cycling, rollerblading, skating or swimming together as a family.
- On wet or cold days, exercise in the house. You could run up and down the stairs with the child or maybe making him count while you engage in push-ups.
Exercising with your teenager:
Getting teenagers to exercise can be challenging. They often are more interested in sedentary activities like watching TV or playing computer games. You really have to be involved yourself, to push them to exercise.
- You could get them to watch TV and run on the treadmill at the same time.
- Play outdoor games like tennis and basketball with them.
- Make family walk a routine and ensure everyone follows it.
- Take up a family gym membership and workout in the gym together.
- Involve them in other family tasks such as gardening, mowing the lawn, washing the car or even house cleaning.
You and your child could soon become fitness buffs. All you need to ensure is that the activity selected by you is fun, so you can count on your child to come back for more.
Get our Tips and Tricks to your Inbox

subset: commoncrawl


text:
LINX Martial Arts students (2nd – 6th grade) who are currently enrolled in a martial arts class at LINX may participate in Ninja Games, a fun nontraditional martial arts conditioning class. The class is a valuable complement to all traditional martial arts classes, and is unique because it is taught by the martial arts instructor, Mr. T. Conditioning helps kids meet the challenges of learning martial arts skills, and will help with sparring, Kung Fu, flexibility, stamina, athletic skills, balance, endurance, agility and belt progression. The 50-minute class includes stretches and core conditioning challenges for fun and stamina:
To add to the fun and more casual environment, leave your ghee at home! Kids may wear comfortable clothing for maximum flexibility.


text:
I've done a lot of reflecting this week…on where I am, where I've been….where I have yet to go.
My weight is continuing to drop (I can't believe it's this low…when was the last time I weighed this much?!) and so is my clothing size.
I am by far in the healthiest place mentally that I've ever been in. I have conquered many demons and learned to love the one person that I seemed to have the hardest time having an ounce of respect for: myself.
Now that I have learned to love myself unconditionally…can I truly love another the same way? Years and years of a detrimental self-image also lead to years and years of looking to another to fill the holes that I had created in myself. Looking elsewhere for fulfillment I should have been getting myself only created bigger voids and more confusion on what it was I really truly wanted.
While thinking this week about all the things I may have done right or wrong in past relationships…I kept asking myself: What is true love? Does everyone really have a soul mate?
I certainly think this to be true. I yearn for it to be true for me. I choose to believe that there are 2 people that are created with the other in mind. I also feel like many of us go through life trying to force the wrong person into that mold…or never finding it at all.
My sister found it. She found the one made with her in mind.
Her wedding is going to be a blast, and enormously emotional all at the same time….my baby sister…married. The girl who crawled in my bed when she was little because she was scared of the dark…the girl who refused to leave the house without her infamous stuffed animal, a lamb named Stuffy Puffy…The girl who I've seen grow from a precious pigtailed girl to a beautiful, talented, brilliant woman.
She found what I and so many others have searched for their entire lives…her soul mate.
If I had been given the task of crafting the most perfect man for her, I could not have asked for more than Dan. He is her perfection. He flawlessly balances her quirkiness, and is patient with her sensitivity. He loves her without question, as she loves him the same. They are amazing together.
Watching her this weekend at the wedding shower being thrown for her, it was evident, even without him present how excited she was to be marrying her best friend. Not just about the guests, not just about the presents or the dress…she is truly 100% excited about meeting him at that altar to begin the rest of their lives together.
I've certainly searched for that one special person that would make my life complete. Plenty of times I thought I had found it. Society (and Nicholas Sparks) has made it hard for people to live up to the expectations of the fairytale relationship…the fairytale like my sister and Dan have…the fairytale my Grandmommy and Poppy Doc have.
I am grateful that I am starting to uncover this fairytale…that I am learning that my perfect person may truly exist after all. But I think this notion that finding my true soul mate is possible has more to do with me than it has to do with 'him.'
As I'm sure it's obvious to you now, I've had a strong inability to find the perfect relationship.
During a counseling session a year or so ago, my therapist asked me to write down what my 'ideal' relationship looked like and to describe my perfect partner. I don't remember what I wrote specifically, but I do know one thing was very clear regarding my perception of what a healthy relationship is…it was a lot about me and what I was demanding from a partner. I believed and required that someone make me happy…without any effort on my part. My 'ideal' was all about what I needed, not about what I can offer.
And trust me, figuring out what I have to offer hasn't exactly been easy. I was only able to do so in finding out who I really am. Finding who this person is was scary initially. I struggled with the constant fear that I might hate who the real me actually was. It's hard to take a good look at yourself when you've been running from it for so long.
As I discovered the real me and started to find peace in myself, I realized that I had often times felt uneasy in nourishing, communicative and emotionally involved relationships because I had NO IDEA how to be in one. (Obviously given my track record.) My confusion in myself was evident in the relationships I was attracted to. If we're unable to have a healthy relationship with ourselves, how can we expect to have one with someone else?
I truly believe that I have finally found my true self. The self that wakes up happy and goes to bed with a smile on her face….the self that doesn't look to validate herself by the actions of others…the self that can finally, after many years and many rocky relationships, say that she knows what it means to be fulfilled.
And while not every relationship was devoid of love and happiness, without being able to accept what it was supposed to feel like, I couldn't experience true unconditional love… complete acceptance…total devoutness and trust.
But that was then…
I am starting to experience true happiness and give it in return. I am starting to understand what it means to trust 100%. I am discovering I have a lot to offer…I am discovering what this so-called life is supposed to be about…
I am starting to write the pages of my fairytale…and it is certainly time for my happily ever after.
"People often say that this or that person has not yet found himself. But the self is not something one finds, it is something one creates." ~Thomas Szasz


text:
Around this time of year we do a "Monster Study" at the Kindergarten. All week we read different books about monsters. Last year I was searching for an art project to do during our monster study. One of the parents at the Fox Hill School is an art teacher at a local elementary school and she sent me pictures of the AWESOME monster project she had done with her kids.
As always, I started art class with a story, this week it was one about monsters, of course! I read ThereWas an Old Monster by Rebecca Adrian and Ed Emberley. The illustrations in this story are very whimsical so it was rich with ideas for their monster creations!
The project is done with construction paper and glue. The time consuming part is making all the monster pieces. If you have older kids, they may be able to cut out their own shapes, but for Kindergarten I found that they could use their imaginations more if they just focused on designing their monster and not worrying about cutting out the shapes. One of the parents at our Kindergarten kindly cut out all sorts of AMAZING shapes for us this year. They were not ordinary shapes - we had swirls, accordions, stars, wiggles, zigzags - you name it!
I explained to the kids that there were only 2 rules for their monster creations: they had to glue some sort of body or head or both to start with and that their monster must NOT fit on the paper! All of the arms, legs, horns and hair should be glued on in such a way that they are not contained by the paper. Some of the kids thought it was "so cool!" that they didn't have to stay on the page but I could tell it was a little troubling to some of my "rule-following" kids.
Once everyone glued their monster bodies on their paper I put out the bowls of shapes. The bowls only lasted a few minutes because they wanted to see all the shapes at once, so we spread them out all over the art table and they were off to the races!
The conversations during the project were great! They talked about what kind of monster they were making, why theirs only had one eye, that the horns give their monster magic powers - just amazing conversations! One of the kids was done quickly, one of the kids struggled a bit with the openended-ness of the project, but the rest of them were completely absorbed in their creations and had reasons for adding all the pieces they chose. We missed school yesterday due to Hurricane Sandy but this project even tamed the "extra-long-weekend-extra-energy" that we expect after a long weekend of being cooped up inside! Such a fun project! Although we study monsters around Halloween, these wonderful monsters would be great any time of year!


text:
Get the FREE 3-Part Video series to get you started...no excuses, no fears!
PLEASE NOTE: Your information will be used to send you this quiz and to subscribe you to our weekly mailings. We will only send you relevant information. We will never sell your information to any third partiers. You can of course unsubscribe at any time. View our full Privacy Policy
Happy Friday Everyone! There seems to be a lot of negativity floating around these days. That's ok. It happens. Especially when there is change and uncertainty. Yet, it's all happening for us. So stay positive. Easier said than done! Rather than take a bath is victimhood and self-pity, why not ask yourself these 5 Powerful,…Read More
It's practically the weekend. For some of you, it is already the weekend. Regardless of where you fall on the international dateline, this weekend I'd like to invite, not scratch that, challenge you to do something different this weekend. Don't worry, this isn't going to be like bringing work home, or studying for a final…Read More
It's that time. Love you…Love you not! Well maybe it's Sweetheart time and not "Love You Not" time. Yet, ironically, many will feel unloved this Valentine's Day. Maybe even yourself. If so, I want you to explore a possibility for this lack of love that you may be feeling. Here's what I believe may be…Read More
Let's be honest with each other, we all have crazy, chaotic lives and the last thing we need is more stuff to do. Right? So here's what I've done to keep myself sane. At any given time, I only allow 5 true Sanity Savers, in my life. You might be asking, "What's a Sanity Saver?"…Read More
Don't hide who you are just make others like you. You've heard people say it, from your kid to your co-workers (and maybe you've said it yourself) — "I just want to fit in." Seems logical; after all, every human craves connection, right? Definitely. But, I'm here to tell you, word choice matters a great deal in our pursuit of connection. Why? Because there…Read More
I'm in the middle of a lot of contractual agreements right now. My book Frankly My Dear I'm Gay: A Late Bloomers Guide, just came out and there's been lots of damn contracts. Publishers contracts PR contracts Collaboration contracts Book tour contracts The list goes on, and on, and on. PHEW, I'm tired and my…Read More
It's time to unscramble that brain of yours. Happiness is waiting! #Winning at life!! Is that you? If not, put the blame for failure where it really belongs — with you — and then see what happens. I confess. I, myself, have been failing. Failing to, truly, be productive. Failing to, wholly, be in my relationship. Failing to, unconditionally,…Read More
It's been a rough couple of weeks in our household. Let's just say, our young adult daughters have been dealing with adult stuff, of the boyfriend kind. Not pretty stuff and emotions are running high. Of course, this puts Poppa Bear on the defensive. Don't mess with my gurls is the first response I had,…Read More
We all need to STOP infecting others with our own stigma. I was recently scanning through the world's favorite past time (Facebook, of course) and saw a post by one of my gay friends. That boy had called forth his inner diva and was on a roll about the stigma towards people with HIV. I…Read More
Hide and Seek was one of my favorite games as a kid. Mostly because it was the one game I was damn good at. Ironically, I'm still good at it, but in different ways, and I suspect some of you are good at it for similar reasons. I'm good at… Hiding what I'd really like…Read More
Chris Brogan
CEO Owner Media Group
Rick Clemons is the kind of guy you want to open up with. He's smart, compassionate, and great at pulling the best story out of a guest for the benefit of the community he serves.
Meridith Elliott Powell
Business Keynote Speaker
& Business Growth Expert
Visionary, creative and cutting-edge, Rick is a true game-changer. His message is original, different, and a complete paradigm shift on obstacles and challenges. But more importantly the power of his delivery inspires audiences to take action! If you're looking for a new type of keynote speaker, someone with a unique story and innovative message, Rick is all of that and so much more!
John Janstch
Ducttape Marketing
Rick speaks with such honesty and emotion that his message is felt as well as heard.
As seen in...
Don Fuller
Orange County PFLAG Speakers Bureau
"Be prepared; Clemons does not suffer fakers and he is merciless with hypocrisy. He has no time for pity. He just says find your Truth and your peace, be good to yourself and those you love, and get on with your life."
Chris Brogan
CEO, Owner Media Group - ChrisBrogan.com
"Rick Clemons is the kind of guy you want to open up with. He's smart, compassionate, and great at pulling the best story out of a guest for the benefit of the community he serves."
Grant Baldwin
Founder, TheSpeakerLab.com
"Rick is a giant teddy bear. He may look rough and tough, but he's extremely compassionate, genuine and has a huge desire to help people make bold moves in their lives."
Jessica Pettitt
Good Enough Now
There are a lot of speakers out there that can talk about these issues. Rick provides a space for real conversation, connection, and a sense of calm that allows for relationships and change to develop and take hold towards something better together. His experience paired with his calming energy and good sense of humor separates him from the pack.


text:
Now that I have your attention, are you ready to develop/build Windows 8.1 Phone Apps, or better yet, do you want to see what Cortana, your personal assistant, can do for you? Then keep reading and follow the links provided below.
First, let's talk about building Windows Phone and Windows Applications with no coding and at the same time. About 8 months ago we launched Windows Phone App Studio Beta and ever since, over 400,000+ developers have used, created, and published Windows based applications. This includes Novice Developers, College Professors, College Students, and Experience Developers alike building apps of all shapes and sizes. Click the link below and start building on your ideas and then let me know what you were able to accomplish. Who knows, if it's something really cool, maybe I will reference on my blog... What do you have to lose?
Windows Phone App Studio- Windows App Studio lets you swiftly build apps for immediate publishing, testing, and sharing with clients, co-workers, friends, and family. Need to make changes or try variations? With Windows App Studio it's a snap! And when you're ready to add advanced programming features, Windows App Studio generates your source code - a feature no other app-builder tool provides.
Want to update you phone to 8.1 Preview? Start Here: https://dev.windowsphone.com/en-us/develop/devpreview
I am looking forward to seeing what you can do and if you have any questions let me know.


text:
Introducing Inspirato Pass The world's first luxury travel subscription Enjoy endless travel for $2,500 per month with no nightly rates, taxes, or fees. Browse thousands of luxury trips and custom experiences in hundreds of destinations around the world, all at an extraordinary value. Never pay a nightly rate again. Inspirato Pass. Look. Book. Stay. Repeat.
Inspirato Pass
7/14/2019 | 0:30


text:
Today's Scripture: Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Psalm 119:11
One word can change everything. In 1631, an English Bible printer forgot the "not" in one of the Ten Commandments. His version of Exodus 20:14 read: "Thou shalt commit adultery." This edition became known as The Wicked Bible, and the printer had to pay a large fine, £300.00. King Charles I commanded that all the copies of this Bible should be destroyed.
The devil knows the importance of words. He knew exactly what he was saying when he spoke to Christ in the wilderness, "If thou be the Son of God . . .." Satan directly challenged Christ's deity by asking Him to prove it with a miracle. He tries to get people to do the same thing today. He whispers the word "if" in the middle of their most trying times so that they will doubt God's power or character: "If God really loved you, then He would have given you a promotion instead of your lazy co-worker." "If God is faithful, then He would have given you a mate by now." "If God really cared about you, then He would have helped you sell your house sooner." "If God was really your Protector, then He would have kept you from being hurt by your closest friend or family member." "If, if, if, if, if. . .."
The word "if" can take our faith if we're not careful. We can keep this from happening when we respond with Scripture as Jesus did. The Word of God has positive truth to counter every negative statement from the devil. We don't have to outsmart the devil; the Bible tells us to resist him, and he will flee from us.
Maybe you have been wrestling with doubt. You know God's there, but you just can't understand what He's doing in your life. Don't let Satan's "ifs" take your faith. Rest in the certain promises of God's Word, and your enemy will flee.
Devotional by Dr. James A. Scudder


text:
What is Open Registration?
Open Registration is the period of time where players can register for the fall season. As long as their team exists, players who register during this period are guaranteed a spot on their old team. Priority is not given based on the date you register as long as you register sometime during Open Registration. Players registering after Open Registration are placed on teams on a space available basis.


text:
At the height of the CHIMURENGA war, the struggle for independence in Zimbabwe, a Malawian missionary family arriving at Harare airport was stranded inside the terminal while chaos took over the city streets. Oblivious to the muted panic in the airport lounge, two year old Peter Mawanga broke the tension as he sang Amazing Grace, perfectly in tune, to an amazed audience. His uncle pronounced there and then that the boy was destined to be a great musician. Read More
August 16th, 2016
Talents of the Malawian Child is a registered youth non profit organisation and an affiliate of National Youth Council. Talents of the Malawian Child latest project is Guitars for Malawi . ...
August 12th, 2016
In 2010, Peter Mawanga and Andrew finn Magill collaboration on a concept album to tell true stories of people living with HIV/AIDS called Mau a Malawi, which was launched at the University of ...
Skirball cultural center
08:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Doors and DJ set at 6:30 p.m. ADMISSION: FREE | No reservations Admission and seating on a first-come, first-served basis PARKING: $10 per car (cash only) | ...
The Cooperage Project
07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Andrew "Finn the Fiddler" Magill has straddled the tenuous line of "fiddler" and "violinist" for the better part of his thirty years. Raised in an Irish musical


text:
President | CEO | Visionary – Shared Wealth | John 10:10
Green arrow is a soap opera for men. Each episode is like a Power Rangers episode.
House – Raven
House - Raven6/16
Music – Awake Album Launch Event
Music - Awake40/100
Phoebe Ryan
Anna Negyesi
Katherine Lucia
Shayla Montalvo
Carson Nance


text:
Health and social care 'join up' plans unveiled
Minister announces proposals to integrate services by 2018 to stop people being passed around hospital and social care staff
Randeep Ramesh, social affairs editor. The Guardian, Tuesday 14 May 2013
The government has announced plans for "joined-up" health and social care by 2018, potentially imposing a financial penalty on services if they ask patients to retell their stories to different layers of professionals.
Under the proposals unveiled by health minister Norman Lamb, hospitals would also be paid based on how patients rate their experiences.
The government has asked the regulator and NHS England to come up with a system that would stop people being passed around between doctors in hospitals and community services.
The government aims to "make joined-up and co-ordinated health and care the norm by 2018" – in effect stealing a march on Ed Miliband who has made integration the cornerstone of Labour's health policy.
NHS England, the quango running the health service, will have a budget of about £1bn to ensure there are integrated projects in every part of the country by 2015.
Lamb said this would help end patients suffering disjointed care and support. In a recent study a third of bereaved people said hospitals did not work well with GPs and other services.
The government also pointed out that patients were facing long waits in hospital before being discharged, in part because of inadequate co-ordination between hospital and social care staff. Delayed discharges cost the NHS £370m a year.
Lamb said that "people are falling through the cracks". He said that he wanted to end the fact that people are "having to retell their story every time they encounter a new service".
"It's a crisis point really," he said. "People not getting the support they need because different parts of the system don't talk to each other; older people discharged from hospital to homes not adapted to their needs, only to deteriorate or fall and end up back in A&E. Cutting emergency readmissions will bring a much better experience for patients."
Chris Ham, chief executive of the King's Fund, said the government's announcement was a step change in the debate. "Feedback from our work with local health and social care leaders indicates that some aspects of current policy and regulation are acting as barriers to delivering co-ordinated care," he said. "This should be addressed by giving pioneer areas freedom and flexibility to overcome these restrictions when they are rolled out from September."
The coalition is attempting to mollify critics of its health policy who claim hospitals will have to compete with each other rather than co-operate to provide patient care. They point out that GPs buying treatment from the NHS's flagship "joined-up hospital" – Torbay's pioneering integrated health organisation – are taking legal advice amid fears they can no longer buy care directly because of a legal requirement to competitively tender some services.
Lamb said he had met Torbay to discuss the problem. "I don't think these will be a barrier at all. We are looking to measure patient experience along a care journey and pay [hospitals] for it. It is a move forward."
The idea of paying hospitals on the basis of patients' ratings has been lifted from President Obama's healthcare programme. In the United States nearly $1bn (£630m) in payments to hospitals a year will be based partly on patient satisfaction. Patients will fill in a 27-question government survey and US hospitals with high scores will get a bonus payment. Those with low ones will lose money


text:
On reaching a certain purchase price range, these promotional products would be visible to your customer and allow them to proceed for purchasing. This price range can entirely be decided by you! It gives you the liberty to display the promotional products only to exclusive customers who purchases products that exceed certain price slab, as defined by the admin!
Core Features
- Displays Promotional Products in frontendYou can display the promotional products in the frontend of your e-store in the cart page.
- Manages Promotion PriceIt retains the predefined price range of purchase set by the admin, crossing which the customers would be able to view and select the promotional products.
- Displays in Cart Page or Checkout PageThere is provision for the admin to decide where to display the promotional products – on Cart page or directly on Checkout page in frontend.
- Easy to Install and UseThis extension is easy to install and configure and equally simple to use by the admin and the customers both!
- Works for Multiple Stores This extension can be installed and managed for multiple store, given specific need and choice of the store owner.
- Chance to get Promotional ProductsOnline shoppers would be able to avail free gifts or promotional products on purchases that exceeds a predefined price range!


text:
The 8 Types of Motorcycle Riders
Motorcycling is a pastime full of variation. There is something for everyone, which is just as well, because life generally gives rise to many interesting types. Different characters can become very easy to spot on two wheels, so here's a light-hearted look at some of the types of motorcycle riders you may encounter in the wilderness.… Read more


text:
Author Archives: Representative Mary Wolfe
Just Being Drunk in Public Shouldn't be a Crime, Right?
Iowa House File 2023, which I filed, proposes the repeal of the criminal offense of "Intoxication and Simulated Intoxication in Public Places" (which crime was first enacted in 1928). As far as I can determine, Public Intoxication is the only … Continue reading
Please Don't Veto Senate File 385, Governor Branstad!
Last week, the Iowa Senate and Iowa House passed Senate File 385 unanimously. It's now sitting on the Governor's desk, and assuming the Governor signs off on the bill, then beginning January 1st of next year a person who has … Continue reading
Let's expunge info on dismissals/not guilty verdicts, right?
This Friday (i.e., tomorrow) marks the end of this session's "second funnel" – which means that (with quite a few exceptions) the only bills that remain viable are those bills that have passed out of either the House or the … Continue reading
House File 527, the "Omnibus" Firearm Bill
So this week the Iowa House of Representatives passed House File 527 (https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/Published/LGI/86/HF527.pdf), a bill dealing with firearm issues. The bill has several provisions, some of which are clearly good and some of which are arguably problematic; however, it is … Continue reading
We're Done – Here's What We Did …
The Iowa House adjourned earlier this morning (Thursday, May 1st) at about 4:30 a.m., after passing more bills in 12 hours than we had passed during the prior three months (ok, not really, but that's sure how it seemed). It … Continue reading
If you're a teenager with a coaching authorization (or the parent of one) – YOU WANT TO READ THIS.
So last night the Iowa House unanimously passed House File 2474: An Act expanding the criminal offense of and related penalties for sexual exploitation to include persons issued a school coaching authorization. This is a leadership bill intended to address a specific … Continue reading
Why I Voted No on the Kidnapping Bill (SF 2201)
So … yesterday the Iowa House passed Senate File 2201, An Act Relating to Kidnapping and Providing Penalties. I was one of three NO votes on the bill, and my mom told me I darn well better explain to everyone back home … Continue reading


text:
11/1/2017: We are updating our site design to work better on mobile devices. Please bear with us as we get the entire site updated. Thanks!
by Ingrid
(Hilton Head, SC)
Guapo came into my life 2 years ago. I am Guapo's dog walker. Guapo's mom has bad lungs and hired me.
I am in love with him and give him way extra care and attention. The first 1 1/2 years was really good, satisfying with him. He could do 40 minute walks and had no health problems. Now it's been one thing after another. It's been heartbreaking to watch him deteriorate.
Just could use support to talk about all his issues. So if anyone out there has an older Basset I'd love to hear your stories and experience.
Like right now he just got off of anti-fungal for his feet and inner back leg; antibiotic for his ongoing sneezing problem that they have been trying to fix since Christmas. The long standing ear infection that we can not get rid of. Always comes back. He hates the ear wash.
The ear infection bothers me the most. I could go on and on. We have been to the vet so many times the past 6 months and Kristi, Guapo's mom, has spent so much money. I want her to bring him back in for the ear infection, like never, never, never give up kind of thing but I know they are going to tell us to use the freaking ear wash once a day and the freaking medicine twice a day for two freaking week! Any similar experiences out there?
Comments for Senior Basset Hound, Guapo (handsome in spanish)
Click here to add your own comments
Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Basset Hound Stories and Information.
Like or Share this Page!


text:
Please visit our Art Sales Page [1] for a current listing.
The collection will be updated regularly. If you are looking for something and we don't have it posted, we may still have what you're looking for. Drop us a line at firstname.lastname@example.com [2] for any questions or inquiries.
We will only work with USA Domestic customers. International shipping and payment methods are currently not available to us.
Thank you.
[1] http://www.cybergrass.com/Art/index.html
[2] mailto:firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
CBR's coverage of Comic-Con International in San Diego continues with the Mondo Marvel panel. On hand for the panel were Marvel SVP - Creator and Content Development C.B. Cebulski; Arune Singh, Manager of Sales Communications; and writers Jeph Loeb, Brian Michael Bendis, Jim McCann, Dan Abnett, and Andy Lanning, and editors Mark Paniccia, Tom Brennan, and Michael Horwitz.
Cebulski began the panel by announcing several series: "Loki" for October by Roberto Sacasa and Sebastian Fiumara; "Captain America and the Korvac Saga" by Ben McCool; "Captain America: Hail Hydra" in January by Brian Clevinger; "Captain America: Fighting Avenger," an all ages series retelling his origin and new series; and Mark Waid returning to Captain America with "Captain America: Man Out of Time" which Singh described as being about "After Captain America's defrosted, how does he react to the world?"
Then, two new Ultimate series came up, led by "Ultimate Thor" in October by Jonathan Hickman and Carlos Pacheco. "It's patented Hickman madness," Paniccia said.
"Ultimate Doom" launches in December, by Brian Michael Bendis, completing his "Ultimate Enemy" trilogy.
Next up was "Strange Tales II" for next year, and Abnett and Landing on "Iron Man/Thor," launching in November. "It's a great opportunity to pair up characters who are the epitome of mystical legendry and the character who is the epitome of technology," Abnett said.
"And we will be introducing Iron Raccoon," Lanning joked.
"Who is the new Man without Fear?" Apparently, it's Nova, as the teaser image and panelists made no attempt to hide his identity.
"Power Man and Iron Fist" launches in January by Fred Van Lente and Wellinton Alves, which will feature the new Power Man in the titular role.
Cebulski then introduced "Rocket Raccoon and Groot" featuring a cover by Mike Mignola and written by Abnett and Lanning with interior art by Tim Green. Lanning said he couldn't say much about the series without revealing details of the "Thanos Imperative," but would say "Groot will refer to himself as Groot, and Rocket will fire some unfeasibly large cannons.
The prize for good questions at this panel will be "Pieces of Groot," with a certificate of authenticity. Yes, these are simply sticks.
Cebulski then opened the floor to questions.
Asked whether "Secret Avengers" takes place before or after "Thanos Imperative," Abnett said, "They're sort of side by side-[Nova] is commuting between one event and another."
Abnett said that he enjoys using some of the more obscure cosmic characters, especially in a team setting. He would not directly answer the question about which heroes in particular he'd like to work with next, with Lanning concurring. Lanning added, though, "who would have thought only a couple years ago that we'd have a 'Rocket Raccoon and Groot' miniseries?"
Next question, will Sentry stay dead? "He's always dead in my book," Bendis said.
The origin will of Nowhere will be revealed "the first chance we get to tell it," Abnett said.
As to whether "Guardians of the Galaxy" will relaunch after "Thanos Imperative," Lanning said, "They're like Ross and Rachel at the moment-they're taking a break." Plus, he added, if there was a new series that would confirm they survive, which he's not eager to do in the midst of the cosmic event.
"Shadowland" and the "Power Man and Iron Fist" miniseries will "give a good indication of where [Iron Fist] is going," Singh said when asked about a solo "Iron Fist" relaunch.
Michael Horwitz said he's excited about editing the upcoming 'Daughters of the Shadow" miniseries, when the panel was asked which characters surprised them with their popularity or deserved more attention. McCann said, "I'm just happy Mockingbird is back." Cebulski offered Cloak and Dagger, while Bendis suggested Killraven would be moving into current modern continuity.
Asked about more "Nextwave," Cebulski said, "Warren knows our door's open whenever he wants to return to these characters."
After praising Tom DeFalco, Brennan confirmed that "Spider-Girl: The End" will be Mayday Parker's swansong for a while, as Araña becomes Spider-Girl in the new series. "You never know, though, she keeps coming back."
Should Teddy from "Young Avengers" become Captain Marvel? "Alan [Heinberg] does everything purposefully, and there is a plan," Singh said, directing readers to the current "Children's Crusade" miniseries.
Loeb said there would be a huge announcement Friday at 8:15 pm regarding Marvel and anime, and first scenes from the Iron Man Anime will be shown.
One fan was upset about Red Hulk, "I followed that book for two years and I have no idea what happened!" he said. "Did you mean for it to go down like that?" "Yes, that was what we intended," Loeb said, adding that the creators always try to tell the best stories they can.
"I understand Galactus has to eat planets all the time, but why?" Abnett spun an answer about Galactus being a necessary force in the universe, but ended with, "I don't know where this is coming from, I'm just making it up."
"Those of you who are wondering where the mustache goes, I could answer that," Loeb joked, "but I'll throw this back to you: when the Thing goes back to Ben Grimm, why does he have a full head of hair?"
Asked about another crossover between Marvel and DC, Cebulski said, "Go to a DC panel tomorrow, tell them Marvel said yes, what's your answer?"
When a fan asked about organizing various character appearances and events, Bendis talked about their editorial retreats. "We don't write in a vacuum," he said. "If Spider-Man's going to be trapped under a mattress for several months, that's going to have to be reflected somewhere." Bendis added that micro-continuity has never fully matched up, including in classic comics, but the writers do take the big picture into account.
The same fan was upset that the final four issues of "The Twelve" haven't been released, despite promises from Joe Quesada and Joe Michael Straczynski, and asked why the comic was now years late. "You should ask Joe Michael Straczynski that question," Loeb said. "You should ask him."
Asked about divvying up Avengers teams, Bendis said that he always knew there would be a Cap, Thor, and Iron Man series, and the others spun from there. Then, "you make yourself Luke Cage and say, who would I want on my team?"
Next came the lightning round of questions, though as things would happen the name didn't fit.
When will Spider-Man and MJ get back together? "Read 'One Moment in Time,'" Singh said, which begins this week in "Amazing" #638
Lanning asked, "Who would be interested in a 'Cosmic Avengers' book?" Lots of applause.
Will there still be an ongoing cosmic title after "Thanos Imperative?" "Stay tuned," McCann said.
When asked about the character, Bendis said "you will see [Rom] Space Knight show up in a future Avengers story."
More Blue Marvel after "Age of Heroes?" "Everybody likes Blue Marvel, but you've got to buy the book," Singh said.
Future plans for Squirrel Girl? "Ask Dan Slott," Singh said. "He loves talking about her."
"Illuminati will show up in Avengers #7," Bendis said, "they will be outed to the world for doing something even worse than they did last time."
Will more horror characters come back? Several: "Yes."
"Satana will be showing up in the upcoming 'Women of Marvel' digital miniseries," Horwitz said.
Loeb said "Captain America: White" should be finished in time for the movie, and he and the artist recognize that there have been delays.


text:
Monday, April 15, 2013
Mantis Shrimps of Singapore (ONETWOTHREE DEATH!)
Many people are finally clued in to the awesomeness of mantis shrimps, thanks to a hilarious comic by The Oatmeal.
This has been cited as an excellent example of science communication, and is also a great opportunity to highlight that Singapore has mantis shrimps too!
Friday, April 12, 2013
Pulau Ubin: Explanation, and Final Remarks
A house at Kampung Melayu, Pulau Ubin;
(Photo from TODAY)
After the kerfuffle over the last few days, with lots of voices of indignation and outrage being expressed on many different platforms, and even an online petition, there's finally a clarification about what was thought to be plans to evict some of the residents on Pulau Ubin.
I am glad that there is finally some explanation, and even happier that it was not the worst-case scenario that many of us had feared. Still, in light of all this information, there are some points to be made.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Should we care about Pulau Ubin? Seeking views and comments
One of the houses at Kampung Melayu, Pulau Ubin;
(Photo by Pod Boy)
Yesterday's post on the planned eviction of some of the residents on Pulau Ubin received a lot of attention. I haven't been able to keep track of what others are saying about the whole matter, especially on Facebook and various online forums, but I'm glad to see that a number of people care about what happens to Pulau Ubin.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Eviction of residents at Kampung Melayu, Pulau Ubin: What's happening?
Kampung Melayu, Pulau Ubin;
(Photo by Ria)
Pulau Ubin is often described as the last remnant of a Singapore that has all but vanished everywhere else, a place bypassed by the decades that feels as it must have done in colonial times.
Of course, this is largely a myth: the Ubin I now visit on a frequent basis is quite different from the Ubin I visited as a child in the 1990s. Change is constantly taking place on Ubin, even if we're not always immediately aware of it; familiar faces vanish, buildings change hands and exterior decor, and trees fall as a result of both storm and chainsaw.
But sometimes, there are signs of even greater upheaval lying in wait, hints of policies that some fear will destroy or irrevocably alter the Ubin that so many of us have grown to love and appreciate.
Labels: development, Pulau Ubin, social media, Storify, threats
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)


text:
The Samsung Galaxy S5 has a feature that automatically adjust screen tone. It analyzes on-screen images and amount of light in the surroundings to produce a more appropriate screen tone. The feature helps in saving up battery as well as make the screen soft to the eyes of the user.
For my readers who have been asking me why the screen of their phones change the level of brightness most of the time, it's either the Auto brightness that's causing that or this feature.
There are two ways you can enable this feature, continue reading for the tutorials:
Access Auto Adjust Screen Tone Via Settings
- From the top of the screen, swipe your finger to the bottom to pull down the Notification panel.
- Tap the Settings icon (cogwheel).
- Scroll to Sound and display section.
- Tap Display.
- Tick the checkbox next to Auto adjust screen tone to turn it on.
Access Auto Adjust Screen Tone Via S Finder
- From the top of the screen, swipe your finger to the bottom to pull down the Notification panel.
- Touch S Finder.
- Enter 'auto adjust screen tone' and tap the search icon.
- In the next page, under Settings section, tick the checkbox next to Auto adjust screen tone.
- The feature is now enabled.
I hope this short post helped you somehow. Feel free to leave a comment if you have questions, clarifications or problems with your phone.


text:
Impact of GST on working capital
Working Capital is synonymous to oxygen in any businesses. It is the backbone and support system for any business. A healthy working capital indicates a successful business. With GST being implemented from 1st July, there are various implications on the working capital of small and medium businesses. They need to fully understand these implications and harness GST to their advantage.
- Furtherance of Business Concept:
In the current tax, regime businesses can take input tax credit only on the inputs used or linked to taxable output. This means a trader paying VAT on the purchase of goods can take input tax credit only on taxable sales. Similarly, a service provider paying service tax on advertisement expenses cannot take credit on it as it will be treated as a business expense. Under GST, this will be different. GST has broadened the scope of input tax credit to include any input or services "used or intended to be used in the course of or for the furtherance of business". In this way, businesses will be allowed to claim the input tax credit on all inputs and input services including advertising as mentioned above.
This will further reduce the cost of operation, and directly increase the net margins for businesses, thereby, strengthening their working capital. But in order to use this, businesses need to procure goods or services from registered businesses and account for the tax paid on business overheads.
- Vendor Management under GST:
Currently, input credit availed by a business is not dependent on the real-time acceptance of tax liability by a supplier. However, under GST input tax credit will be dependent on supplier's compliance and responsibility to file the return declaring outward supplies along with tax payment. If this is not done then it will affect the cash flow and working capital. In a situation where the supplier fails to furnish the valid return, the input tax credit claimed by the business will be reversed and the provider shall have to discharge it along with interest. This also means the seller must identify those suppliers who have on-time compliance credibility.
But there will be a 2-month window to ratify the discrepancies before reversing the ITC claim. Hence, vendor management under GST is of prime importance.
- GST taxed during the sale of goods and services:
Under GST tax is levied on the transfer of stock, this means businesses cannot claim tax credit until the shipped goods are sold. GST arises on sale or transfer of the goods. This can take a long time in case of exports for the tax money paid by businesses to reach back to them.
- Increase costs for businesses:
Currently, if a business is paying 14% as import duty to import goods from abroad, under GST this rate will become 18% (for most products) which is the standard rate applied. This means a 4% increase in tax and an increase in their working capital too. This is mainly done to encourage home consumption and avoid using materials from abroad. However, in the earlier phases of GST, if you are straddled for working capital requirements, you can always opt for a working capital loan from https://flexiloans.com at suitable interest rates.
- Savings on warehousing cost
In order to avoid payment of taxes for shipping goods across state borders, businesses have multiple warehouses in different states. This implies an additional tax burden on each warehouse, as per each State law. This is in addition to the operational costs and working capital needs that the business endures. But under GST there is free movement of goods. With GST, companies will not need to comply with CST, Octroi, or entry taxes, making it simpler and affordable to move goods across the country. This will help businesses operate their warehouses more efficiently thereby helping them manage their working capital.
These are a few ways as to how GST will impact working capital of small and medium businesses. Evidently, it may become difficult to meet liquidity requirements in the earlier phase of GST, but at FlexiLoans it is possible to make these ends meet. All you need to do is apply for a working capital loan on https://flexiloans.com.
Also read: GST IMPACT ON SMALL E-COMMERCE VENDORS


text:
Mövenpick opens third hotel in Thailand
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts' third beach resort in Thailand has opened at Koh Samui island's most idyllic sunset location. The fifty room Mövenpick Resort Laem Yai Beach Samui features pool villas, beachfront villas and two-bedroom villas.
Mövenpick Resort Laem Yai Beach provides a tropical location for intimate weddings, special occasions and romantic encounters. Private beach dinners and pampering wellness experiences are arranged for honeymooners and couples at the resort, which is just 30 minutes from Samui International Airport.
Laem Yai Beach on Samui is the international hospitality company's third location in Thailand, alongside Bangtao Beach and Karon Beach in Phuket. The upscale hotel company counts Thailand as one of its most important destinations for further development and current expansion plans are in place for six additional hotels in the next four years.
Mövenpick's next Thai resort will open in Pattaya at the end of 2015 and will be followed by Chiang Mai, Suriwongse the year after. Two additional planned properties will be located in Hua Hin and Bangkok."With its stunning beaches, lush jungles and extraordinary cultural heritage, Thailand is a tourism epicentre. The contribution of travel and tourism to Thailand's economy and employment is significant and we are confident that the country will remain a key leisure destination in the long run," said Andreas Mattmüller, Chief Operating Officer of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, Middle East and Asia.
Within wider Asia, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is in the process of organically growing its brand presence in a systematic way. The company aims to operate at least 25 properties in the continent by 2020, strategically managed from its regional office in Bangkok. At present, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has 81 properties around the world.


text:
1. What's your definition of local for this challenge?
Local will be anything within 100 miles (as the crow flies) of San Francisco, CA.
2. What exemptions will you claim?
> Coffee. All coffee will be roasted locally.
> Salmon and halibut in my freezer that my dad caught in Alaska
> Steel Cut Oats. I haven't been able to find a local source of oats. Normally, I would say that we would just eat something different for breakfast, but morning oatmeal has been a pretty important part of Jason's regimen since we have completely changed our at-home diets. Therefore, it's going to stay. We will be buying organic steel cut oats from Rainbow Grocery. The oats come from Fiddler's Green Farm in Maine.
> Sugar. Each time we use sugar in the household, we will try to find a reasonable local substitute (ie., honey, orange juice, etc.) but when we need to use sugar, we will do so.
> Rice. We will be buying our rice from Lundberg Family Farms which is technically about 115 miles from San Francisco. It is organic rice, and is readily available in San Francisco. I am putting it under exceptions because it is a little out of the radius.
> Spices. A couple of posts ago, Barbara made a comment about how even many of the settlers carried spices from afar. This led to a discussion in our household about the amount of spices (by bulk) that we use, and will use in a month. It's a minimal amount, and I am going to keep spices from afar in my diet for this challenge. With the caveat that if there is a local and known provider I will use them (ie., Tierra Vegetables and Happy Quail farms for my chile powders).
I am a little skeptical of not making and exemption for other grains, soy and corn tortillas, however we have committed to at least start the challenge with only the above exemptions.
3. What is your personal goal for the month?
Anything that I buy or cook for the household will be locally grown. If we go to a restaurant that makes a claim of using foods from local farmers, then we assume that most of the food we will eat there is local, and it will work for this challenge. Other than that, I can eat out once a week at a restaurant that does not make local food claims.


text:
Today, Contemporary Fiction/"Chick-Lit" Author Fiona Gibson talks about her long standing relationship with Make-Up. If you live in the UK, you will no doubt find some really nostalgic memories. So, please give her a warm welcome and be sure to check out her latest release The Woman Who Met Her Match, which is out now on ebook and Paperback and published by Avon UK.
MAKE UP THROUGH THE AGES by Fiona Gibson
I adore make-up. Ever since I got my hands on a Miners eye shadow quartet from Woollies at age 15, I've loved how it can totally alter the way you look and feel. That's why I decided to work in a make-up theme when I started writing my new novel, The Woman Who Met Her Match. Lorrie, my main character, is one of those women who tries to coax you to sit on the stool at their beauty counter in a department store. I'm quite fascinated by those counter ladies – how some are so charming, so persuasive you simply can't resist, whereas others – thankfully a rarity these days – virtually accost you and tie to to the chair.
In fact, I'm usually not adverse to having some new product dabbed on my face, even in the middle of a busy branch of John Lewis on a Saturday afternoon. When I was younger, I'd have found it mortifying, but now it's quite a treat.
The way I do my face has obviously too. Just a teen when I started, I'm now 52 with a crazy amount of products stashed in my dressing table drawer, and an inability to stop buying new stuff ('It was on special offer – honest!'). Here's a quick summary of my life-long love affair with make-up…
Teens… It was all about Rimmel, Boots 17 and Miners – cheap and cheerful brands to spend our pocket money on. My friends and I would cluster around the counters in Boots, trying stuff out. Those roll-on clear lip glosses were a big draw; in the throes of a crush on some boy, I chose a chocolate-flavoured version. Plotting and sniggering, my friend Karen and I decided that I should apply the goo at the next local disco and ask said boy if he would like to kiss me. In the event, I bottled out. But the roll-on gloss remained a firm favourite throughout my teenage years.
Twenties… Bright red lips and heavy-handed stripes of blush – welcome to the eighties. I'd left home, and was working on teen mag Jackie in Dundee, then Just Seventeen in London. In fact my first job on Just Seventeen was Beauty Editor, which entailed writing about make-up and being festooned with tons of free products. My make-up heroes were Yazz, Madonna and Bananarama. Eye make-up was bright and brash, nails neon – we were like children let loose with a palette of paints. Getting ready had never been so much fun.
Thirties… My early motherhood years when, despite my vow to always wear lipstick on the school run, I was often lucky to be able to drag a comb through my hair. When my twin boys and daughter were little, make-up was reserved for nights out – and seemed all the more special for it. After a day spent running around in the park with the kids, it felt delightfully grown-up to extract my make-up bag from its secret location (away from pilfering little fingers) and put on my grown-up face.
Forties and fifties… While you might assume there'd be a desire to ramp up the make-up with every passing year, I've found the opposite is true – I'd rather go easy than look over-done. My 17 year-old daughter acts as handy barometer if I'm in two minds about liquid eye liner or whether a sparkly navy blue shadow is too much. Certain trends are definitely for her generation, not mine: eg, those full-on false lashes and contouring (in fact, is contouring really for anyone?). However, I have fallen back in love with red lipstick, which I hadn't worn since the eighties. An in-store Chanel consultant persuaded me to give it a whirl – and I loved it. A bold pop of red, to lift the spirits on an otherwise grey day? That's the magical effect of make-up.
Release Date: OUT NOW!!
Published by: Avon UK
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/ Chick Lit
What if your first love came back on the scene . . . 30 years later?
After yet another disaster, Lorrie is calling time on online dating. She might be single in her forties, but she's got a good job, wonderful children and she's happy. This, Lorrie decides, is going to have to be enough.
That is, until she receives a very unexpected request from France. Antoine Rousseau, who had once turned a lonely French exchange trip into a summer of romance, wants to see her – after thirty years.
But Lorrie is a responsible woman. She can't exactly run off to Nice with the man who broke her teenage heart . . . can she?
A wonderfully funny novel, perfect for fans of Jill Mansell, Joanna Bolouri and Milly Johnson..
Fiona Gibson is an author and journalist. Originally from Yorkshire, she started her writing life at the age of seventeen on Jackie magazine. She is a regular contributor to Red, Sainsbury's Magazine and the Sunday Herald, and lives with her husband and their three children in Lanarkshire, Scotland.Fiona Gibson is an author and journalist. Originally from Yorkshire, she started her writing life at the age of seventeen on Jackie magazine. She is a regular contributor to Red, Sainsbury's Magazine and the Sunday Herald, and lives with her husband and their three children in Lanarkshire, Scotland.


text:
The Pile!
When my wife and I talk about our education we realize how different we were educated and raised. This should come as no surprise. She was raised in an area in Quebec where aluminum mining was the big industry. I was raised in an area of New York where the big industry was iron ore mining. That is where the similarity ends.
Her dad was the Assistant Superintendent of the company, my dad was the guy who went into the ground every day. A dangerous place. There were many mine widows in our town.
Sadly, my wife's dad could never become the big boss of the facility. He had the education. He spoke perfect English, but he was French Canadian. The facility was owned by English people. He could drink coffee with them but he would never be invited to join the country club.
It was very much like being a black man in Mississippi during the 60's. As long as you stayed in your place life was OK. The French Canadians were treated like second class citizens in their own province. This may help explain why "Parti Quebecois" became so powerful.
But that is another story.
This is about kids being educated and socialized.
My wife is surprised that I can remember all of my teachers from Kindergarten to high school. I am not.
She was educated by nuns. They all looked alike when she was in school. They wore black with white trim. Sister Mary Margaret and Sister Elizabeth looked like twins.
She did not have teachers with colorful nicknames like Peg Leg, Hose Nose, Frizzy, Fossil, Whitie, Bull, and Izzy, to name a few.
Some of the students had very colorful names also. Most of the names were some type of animal like Beaver, Horse, Dogbone, Mole, Cougar, Cub, Munger, Slats, and Carp, to name a few. That was my class only. I am sure some of the other classes had some colorful names also.
The teachers who survived and got tenure were actually quite good. You had to be pretty dedicated to hang around and teach at this school. The school was built on a pile of tailings. Our campus was dirt, gray dirt. If you left the windows open you could hear the sounds of ore cars coming out of the mines and the 2:20 PM explosion. The ground would rumble. They're getting more ore ready for the next shift.
One thing we have in that area is dirt, mountains of dirt.
The people who worked in these mines were a very diverse group. There were many names with "ski" at the end. I guess that would be the Polish People. We had black people who came from South Carolina to find work. We had numerous Spanish people, many French Canadians and of course, the Irish.
I lived a sheltered life for a while. I didn't actually meet a black person until I went to school. Let me correct that. I didn't actually see a black person until I started school.
I was waiting for the school bus which would drop off kids at the school.
The bus arrives and kids start getting off the bus. Suddenly this really black human gets off the bus. I was shocked. I never saw a person with that particular condition. Whatever he had I didn't want to catch it. I didn't know whether to run, poop my pants or go blind. I was traumatized. I eventually got over it. I made a full recovery from this trauma. The guy actually became a good friend later in my teen years.
My school never had a "gay" issue. Huh?...Well, maybe.
I knew of some people who were "different". The one person who really stood out as being gay was not really given a hard time. It was more insidious and subtle. He really wasn't "one of the boys". He was tolerated.
The odd thing, a couple of my classmate came out as gay later in life. I didn't have a clue that they were thinking of joining that club. It's a choice, right? (wink! wink!)
No child left behind? What a concept! There were no Special Education classes when I was in school. If you had an education issue, too bad for you. About half the class I started with in Kindergarten was left behind. It was a miracle that I didn't fall behind.
I made it through. I was horrible in math until 9th grade. The light bulb finally went on.
I was good at physical Education.(Gym)
Life on the dirt pile was interesting. This town of 5 hamlets had about 7,000 people in 1970. Numerous churches, 3 small high schools, 2 catholic schools, 5 post offices, numerous taverns and eateries and big brother, THE COMPANY!!!
The Company decided to close the mines in 1972. They could import steel cheaper.
Outsourcing began. 800 people lost their jobs. My dad retired in 1972. He collected a pension, social security, free health insurance for the next 33 years. Not too bad. I hope to do the same. That will take me right up to 2041. I don't know what I will do after that. I will be getting close to 100 years old.
The town is still there but they are dying a slow painful death. Me too. I hurt everywhere already.
Pictured: Miners on their way to work.
Note:While getting information for this blog I came across a side story that is interesting. It was a topix blog called "Remember when". It happened in my hometown.
Pictured: My school literally on a dirt pile.
December 1968: (posted by HWH)
I was at HWHenry(a car dealership) having a beer with Dick F, George B. , C. Henry, and Mark S.
Mark took a bottle of beer, put it on a steel beam in the back of the garage. He said he would drink this bottle when he gets back from Vietnam.
End of story? Not really. They say the bottle is still there. The building is now the firehouse.
April 26 would be 42 years. Mark would be 62 years old now.
Let me know for sure if the bottle of Genesee is still there.
I was at HWHenry(a car dealership) having a beer with Dick F, George B. , C. Henry, and Mark S.
Mark took a bottle of beer, put it on a steel beam in the back of the garage. He said he would drink this bottle when he gets back from Vietnam.
End of story? Not really. They say the bottle is still there. The building is now the firehouse.
April 26 would be 42 years. Mark would be 62 years old now.
Let me know for sure if the bottle of Genesee is still there.


text:
Fitness Gear to Help You Beat the Summer Heat
It's hot out there! (No, it's not just you -- although that bikini looks smokin'!) Even before July hit, the United States had already broken its record for the hottest first six months in a calendar year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The last couple of weeks have been no picnic, either, in most parts of the country, and hotter-than-average temperatures are expected to continue at least over the next few days.
During a prolonged heat wave, working up a sweat may be the last thing you want to do -- but it's no excuse to throw in the towel altogether. To help keep you motivated, we rounded up some summer-specific gear that can help get you through any outdoor exercise. (Just remember to stay safe and use common sense whenever possible: Work out in the morning or evening, choose shade over direct sunlight, stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and don't push yourself if you feel dizzy, sick or otherwise out-of-sorts.)
](http://blog.self.com/fitness/blogs/freshfitnesstips/Screen%20Shot%202012-07-10%20at%204.37.07%20PM.png)Set your legs free
Lululemon's Light as Air shorts are loose and free-flowing, but not too long or baggy to feel like they're in your way. They have a built-in wicking liner and venting to let hot air escape, and a hidden pocket to hold your keys and cards. $58, lululemon.com
](http://blog.self.com/fitness/blogs/freshfitnesstips/Screen%20Shot%202012-07-10%20at%204.20.04%20PM.png)Wipe yourself down
If you've ever run a marathon or half marathon, you might be familiar with the amazing feeling of an ice-cold towel placed around your neck at the finish line. Since you don't always have a bucket of ice water available, though, stash a Frogg Toggs Chilly Sport pad in your bag, instead. It's made from a special evaporative material, so just wetting the towel (even if it's with hot water!) and wringing it out makes it cool and refreshing to the touch within minutes. $13.95, froggtoggs.com
](http://blog.self.com/fitness/blogs/freshfitnesstips/Screen%20Shot%202012-07-10%20at%204.30.36%20PM.png)BYO ice packs
Finally, in the kind-of-weird-but-strangely-wonderful category, is the CoolWear IceTee: A lightweight wicking tank that comes with freezable, reusable gel packs that slip into pockets around the neck and upper spine. (The men's version has underarm pockets, as well.) It looked and felt a little goofy when I put it on, but two miles into my mid-afternoon slog I was really appreciating the cooling effects -- which lasted the better part of an hour out in the heat. I definitely wouldn't wear this one every day, but I'm keeping it handy for my next long training run. $59.95, theicetee.com
Related Links:
Should You Drink Enhanced Water?
Your Sweat-Free Workout
FitSugar: 4 Common Newbie Marathoner Mistakes
For daily fitness tips follow SELF on Facebook and Twitter.
Get SELF on your iPad and Kindle Fire!


text:
Wilbur Smith & Associates and Economic Development Research Group for South Carolina Division of Aeronautics, 2006
For the Division of Aeronautics in the South Carolina Department of Commerce, EDR Group (under subcontract to Wilbur Smith Associates) worked on a team study to assess the economic impact of airports and aviation in South Carolina. The study examined the economic role of each individual airport in the state.
The role of EDR Group focused on surveying airport rates, charges and fees to develop a revenue analysis of airports. This was in addition to developing a position paper on implications of global economic change on the economic role of aviation in South Carolina.


text:
Withdrawn Rationale:
This test method covers determination of the operating characteristics of home reverse osmosis devices using standard test conditions.
Formerly under the jurisdiction of Committee D19 on Water, this test method was withdrawn in July 2016 in accordance with section 10.6.3 of the Regulations Governing ASTM Technical Committees, which requires that standards shall be updated by the end of the eighth year since the last approval date.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers determination of the operating characteristics of home reverse osmosis devices using standard test conditions. It does not necessarily determine the characteristics of the devices operating on natural waters.
1.2 This test method is applicable for spiral-wound devices.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.
ASTM Standards
D512 Test Methods for Chloride Ion In Water
D1125 Test Methods for Electrical Conductivity and Resistivity of Water
D1129 Terminology Relating to Water
D1193 Specification for Reagent Water
D1293 Test Methods for pH of Water
D2777 Practice for Determination of Precision and Bias of Applicable Test Methods of Committee D19 on Water
D4194 Test Methods for Operating Characteristics of Reverse Osmosis and Nanofiltration Devices
D4516 Practice for Standardizing Reverse Osmosis Performance Data
D6161 Terminology Used for Microfiltration, Ultrafiltration, Nanofiltration and Reverse Osmosis Membrane Processes
|Link Here
|Link to Active (This link will always route to the current Active version of the standard.)
Citation Format
ASTM D5615-07e1, Standard Test Method for Operating Characteristics of Home Reverse Osmosis Devices (Withdrawn 2016), ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2007, www.astm.orgBack to Top


text:
New law helps Texans challenge surprise medical bills
Health care consumers in Texas have an important victory to celebrate. A new state law is in place to help patients push back against surprise medical bills that occur from the unexpected use of out-of-network medical providers.
Medical billing and health insurance are often confusing, even to the best-educated patients. But one thing is supposed to be simple. If you have insurance and see a doctor or get medical treatment from a provider in your insurance network, your costs should be lower than going outside the network.
Finding the right provider usually involves some shopping around. The process can be frustrating, and virtually impossible when it's a matter of a health care emergency. But what's really aggravating is doing the research and still getting clobbered by an unexpected medical bill.
There's no certainty of how often – or by how many thousands of dollars – Texans are getting surprise medical bills. Those records aren't kept, or at least not shared with the public. But based on consumer complaints in Texas and throughout the nation, it's clear that surprise medical billing, or what's also known as "balance billing," is not uncommon. It may have even happened to you – perhaps even more than once. And for many people, unpaid medical bills from these out-of-network services can be a source of credit problems or even bankruptcies for consumers.
Many people do not realize that the doctors working in the hospital or free-standing emergency clinic, especially certain specialists, are usually not hospital employees. They may not participate in the same insurance plans as the hospital. This is why patients can sometimes go home from the hospital or neighborhood emergency clinic thinking their care was covered under their insurance network. In reality, though, maybe only a portion of their care was in network. They might later get separate bills from the hospital, the ER doctor, and other providers like a radiologist.
A comprehensive solution is warranted. And this year, AARP Texas and other consumer advocacy groups called for an outright ban on surprise medical billing in this state. Powerful medical industry forces fought against us in the Legislature and the topic wasn't even considered seriously. But consumer advocates succeeded in advancing a significant compromise in the form of Senate Bill 481 by Sen. Kelly Hancock, R-North Richland Hills.
The measure, which took effect Sept. 1, gives consumers additional tools to challenge surprise medical bills that exceed $500. In the past, the limit was $1,000. This change will help more Texans avoid unexpected medical expenses, and the credit-damaging debt that it can rack up.
Though it could be even easier, it isn't difficult for consumer to challenge a surprise medical bill. The Texas Department of Insurance maintains a website on the topic – TDI's Consumers Guide To Health Care Billing.
Consumers must first fill out a short form. Then, the agency arranges a phone call between the doctor, insurance company, and patient, to determine if the parties can reach an agreement about the medical costs and payments. Many challenges are settled with this informal phone conference. But when the parties cannot agree, a challenge goes to mediation, with the costs for mediation split between the insurer and the doctor – not the patient. (Consumers can learn more about the mediation process here.)
It's my expectation that the changes under SB 481 will not only empower Texans with tools to combat surprise medical billing, but will also create disincentives from the inappropriate billing to occur in the first place. Meanwhile, I remain hopeful that insurance companies, hospitals, doctors and other medical providers will join consumer groups in continuing to work toward even stronger protections from surprise medical bills that, when unchecked, threaten Texans' financial stability.


text:
|Australian Mr Michael Chan (R), the brother of death-row prisoner Andrew Chan, arrives for visiting Andrew at Kerobokan Prison in Bali, Indonesia, February 17, 2015. Photo: Made Nagi/EPA
The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has decided to put off the execution of eleven inmates on death row, including two Australian drug traffickers, according to the Jakarta Globe on February 17.
|The Thai labour market relies heavily on migrant labour, workers who on occasion are under age. Fishmongers push a cart of fresh fish at the Bangkok fish market on January 20, 2005. Photo: Udo Weitz/EPA
At least three textile and electronics factories in the Thai border province of Tak were found to be using Myanmar immigrant child labourers aged under 15, according to The Nation on February 17.
|Illegal immigrants from Myanmar and Bangladesh escorted by Thai navy officers on a navy patrol ship at Similan island southern Thailand, January 19, 2019. Photo: Royal Thai Navy/EPA
Police in Indonesia's West Sumatra province have detained 30 undocumented migrants from Myanmar and Bangladesh in Padang on their way to Christmas Island, according to the Jakarta Globe on February 14.
|Australian PM Tony Abbott has called on the Indonesian authorities to spare the lives of two Australian citizens facing the death sentence for drug trafficking. Ms Halen Chan (L) and her son Mr Michael Chan (R), family of death-row prisoner Mr Andrew Chan, leave after visiting Andrew at Kerobokan Prison in Bali, Indonesia, February 10, 2015. Australian Mr Myuran Sukumaran along with his compatriot Mr Andrew Chan are facing execution by firing squad. Photo: Made Nagi/EPA
Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott pleaded with Indonesia to heed Australia's call for clemency for two death row convicts, and warned that Canberra would make its displeasure known should the executions go ahead.
|12th ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Forces Informal Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on February 10, 2015. Photo: MOI
The chiefs of the defence forces of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations have called for more military cooperation and the transformation of current bilateral exercises into multilateral ASEAN drills, according to recent media reports.
|Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha (L) and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe shake hands prior to their meeting at Abe's official residence in Tokyo, Japan, February 9, 2015. General Prayuth was on a three-day visit to Japan. Photo: Franck Robichon/ EPA
Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha sent a clear message to the Japanese government, its business leaders and the media that elections would be held in Thailand at the end of this year or early next, according to the Bangkok Post on February 10.


text:
Managing diabetes can be complex. But with Dexcom CLARITY®, diabetes data reporting and management are now made simple.
You will have quick access to important insights that help in the assessment of your health: highs, lows, daytime, nighttime and best day. Additionally, you can find your estimated A1C, average glucose reading, risk for hypoglycemia and more.
With CLARITY's compare feature, you can evaluate your glucose improvement over time. Identify problem areas with the comprehensive data tool and evaluate if your diabetes management solutions are working.
Dexcom CLARITY's overlay report compiles each day of glucose trend data into a weekly overview.
The Overlay report puts into context the frequency, duration and intensity of patterns of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. This gives you the ability to prioritize problems and find quick solutions.
Dexcom CLARITY offers immediate insight to patterns and potential management solutions to discuss with your health care team.
CLARITY's Ambulatory Glucose Profile (AGP) is a licensed, standardized glucose report created by the International Diabetes Center (IDC). AGP provides a big picture view of your diabetes management and is only one part of understanding your glucose patterns.
View glucose statistics and get weekly notifications* to track your progress anytime, anywhere! Download from the Apple or Google Play store and log in with your Dexcom account information to:
*Notifications and emails are only available for users who opt in and use the Dexcom CGM app.


text:
Jerseys China Shipping Products Tottenham cheap Hotspur Wholesale Nfl Free Jersey Wholesale
(Definition of "listening" from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)
Examples of "listening"
In English, many past and present participles of verbs can be used as adjectives. Some of these examples may show the adjective use.
These examples are from the Cambridge English Corpus and from sources on the web. Any opinions in the examples do not represent the opinion of the Cambridge Dictionary editors or of Cambridge University Press or its licensors.
Music listening activities were conducted using tonal music of different genre and styles.
We use memory in all verbal activities whether reading, speaking or listening.
Perhaps this can be a good thing, encouraging more careful listening.
One child, for example, may have a core deficit in phonological awareness but strong listening comprehension and oral vocabulary.
These differences included not feeling rushed, and the nurse practitioner listening, giving full explanations and being easy to talk to.
The sections on listening and performance in particular reinforce the creative cognitive engagement that occurs during those activities.
The other timer function is the control of the maximum time of listening for the echoes.
In this way, the exterior world of music and the internal processes of listening echo through life the replaying of an original auditory bliss.
In general, the more speakers, the better a system will perform, so long as they are evenly distributed around the central listening position.
He states that captioned films can narrow the gap between students' reading comprehension ability and both their listening comprehension and ability to discuss such matters.
The activities were ranked in the following order: playing instruments, movement/dance, singing, listening to music, composing and talking about music.
Have we got the right balance between performance and listening in lessons?
Teachers were actively involved in listening to their pupils in lessons, moving them on where appropriate.
If we discussed listening comprehension in the morning, lessons involving this would be prepared and given next day.
The message which the caller leaves is then stored for future listening.
My Dictionary
Create and share your own word lists and quizzes for free!
More meanings of "listening"
- listen
- easy listening
- listening skills
- listening figures
- listen in (on
- China Nfl Goalie 60 Authentic Jersey And From Shipping Jets Crown amp; Martin Free Off Wholesale Times 2018 Brodeur Won Winnipeg Division The Four Jerseys
- listen in on
Jerseys China Shipping Products Tottenham cheap Hotspur Wholesale Nfl Free Jersey sth/sb
Word of the Day
someone who interrupts a public speech or performance with loud, unfriendly statements or questions


text:
Chill Barware Tumblers, Set of 2
Easy, hassle-free returns online and in-store for eligible items.Learn More
Earn 5% Back in rewards4 plus free standard shipping3every day when you shop with your Williams Sonoma credit card at Williams Sonoma.Apply Now Learn More
- Summary
Our mouth-blown glass tumblers are sleek, simple and possess a decidedly elegant silhouette. Adding a sparkling touch to everyday dining and relaxed entertaining, they pair well with dinnerware of every style.
- Mouth-blown from clear glass.
- Tumblers and marble base are separate pieces; place base in freezer to keep drinks chilled.
- Perfect for entertaining and casual enough for everyday use.
- Coordinates with our Chill Barware Carafe with Marble Base.
- Set of two.
- Dimensions & More Info
- 3 1/2" diam., 3" high.
- 10-oz.-cap.
- Made in Turkey.
Additional Information
- Variations in the color and veining of the Milas Lilac marble make each base one of a kind; some of the veining may have a light purple tint.
- Use & Care
- Place marble base in freezer prior to chilling tumblers.
- Hand-wash.
- Place marble base in freezer prior to chilling tumblers.
- Shipping
Shipping Information
UPS can deliver most in-stock items within 3–5 business days. UPS is unable to deliver to P.O. boxes.
Shipping Rates
The shipping rate varies depending on your order total and shipping destination. View Shipping Options and Charges.
Next Day Delivery
For an additional charge of $26 per address, we can expedite delivery to most destinations. This service is not available for some oversize items, items shipped directly from the supplier (including perishable and custom-manufactured items), out-of-stock items and items to be shipped outside the contiguous 48 states.
Orders received by 9:00 p.m. ET Monday through Thursday will arrive the next business day; orders placed Friday through Sunday will arrive on the following Tuesday.
Return Policy
At Williams Sonoma, we take great pride in the quality and craftsmanship of our products. Attention to design, materials, safety and construction are our priority. Upon receipt, please inspect your purchase and notify us of any damage; we will arrange for a prompt replacement.
If within 30 days, you are dissatisfied for any reason, you may return your purchase for a refund of the merchandise value. An original receipt or gift receipt is required for all returns and exchanges. Returns with a gift receipt will be refunded in the form of a Merchandise Credit for the amount indicated on the gift receipt. Returns with original receipt will be refunded in the original form of payment, cash and check refunds over $100 will be issued as a company check (may take 14 business days from time of request).
For all cutlery returns (knife sets, single knives, cutting boards, knife sharpeners and knife storage), please contact us at 888.922.4108 to initiate the return.
We cannot accept returns on monogrammed, personalized, special-order items, custom upholstery, food, items shipped direct from the vendor or on items damaged through normal wear and tear. Final sale items ending in .97 or .99 cannot be returned.
Made to Order and Final Sale Furniture items are non-returnable and cannot be cancelled once the order is placed.
For returns of items purchased from your Williams Sonoma Gift Registry, we will gladly provide a refund or exchange for the merchandise within 90 days of your event or within 90 days of purchase, whichever date is later. View Full Returns Policy.


text:
Items where Author is "Abdul Naqib Eizzaz, Abd Samad"
|Up a level
Group by: Item Type | No Grouping
Jump to: Conference or Workshop Item
Number of items: 1.
Conference or Workshop Item
Roshahliza, M. Ramli and Nurul Aqilah, Herman and Muhammad Ridzuan, Mazlan and Azlin Suraya, Nazaruddin and Muhammad Arshad, Tuah and Abdul Naqib Eizzaz, Abd Samad and Kamal, Othman and Yanti Marliana, Esmail (2018) Development of robotic rover with controller & vision system. In: 3rd Engineering Technology International Conference 2018 (ETIC2018), 15 - 16 Aug 2018 , Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC), Melaka. pp. 1-6.. (Unpublished)


text:
Compact. Power Saving. HDMI port. Business orientation. Nice VESA mount. Packed in Altiris client.
Bloatware on a business system, including dialup services. Slow processing anything but web. No HD web video.
Bottom Line
The innovative Acer AspireRevo case shows up again in, of all things, a business system. While the Veriton N260G-U2802 nettop makes a good energy-saving terminal for an applications server or Web use, don't expect too much local performance with more strenuous tasks.
The Acer Veriton VN260G-U2802 ($399 list) is a compact Atom-powered nettop aimed at business. This nettop looks as if it would be a shoo-in for Intel's annual Innovative PCs award, and certainly packs a lot of Intel technology in a tiny shell. It's designed to give the business user a terminal for Web or Application Server use, plus it's a power sipper in day-to-day use. Since it's so stingy with the energy use, don't expect to be able to render CAD drawings and 3D models. That said, it's a good choice for the Web-based business or business that does most of its heavy lifting on servers.
Similar Products
The N260G is a relatively tiny thing, measuring only 7.6 inches square by 1.4 inches tall. It has a business-friendly black and silver-grey finish, and since it's so small, you can slip it to an included bracket and mount it right behind a monitor on the monitor's VESA mount holes. Add a couple of short cables, and this monitor/PC combo has the same footprint as a small all in one PC, like the Apple iMac or HP Pavilion All-in-One MS214 PC. You can also hook it up to a HDTV using the HDMI interface, making this PC ideal for presentation or display use. Since the system has 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi included, you can set it up virtually anywhere with Wi-Fi coverage. Add a wireless keyboard and mouse (rather than the included wired mouse and keyboard), and you'll instantly reduce clutter.
The N260G comes with a power-saving Intel Atom N280 processor and Intel integrated graphics, which means that the system uses relatively little power while operating. While the system includes a laptop style power brick with a 65W capacity, the N260G actually only uses about 15W of power while operating. This is about the same as a "60-Watt equivalent" compact fluorescent light bulb, so you know the N260G will save your company money on its power bills. Multiply this savings by 15 workers (or 1,500) and you'll start to see the appeal of the N260G.
Bloatware is a weight hanging around the system's svelte neck. The usual assortment of Acer bloatware is on the system, even though some of it doesn't make any sense. Microsoft Office 60-day trial is convenient if your business doesn't already own a copy, but otherwise is a pain to remove. Likewise, the system's McAfee Internet Security Suite only has 60 days of updates: way too short for a system meant to last your company years. Acer's ubiquitous eSobi news reader software is here, but if you use Google Reader or MyYahoo!, then eSobi is superfluous. Last but not least is the real head scratcher: Offers for earthlink and NetZero are on the hard drive, but these dial-up Internet Services won't work without a modem, which the broadband-oriented N260G lacks.
The system's integrated Intel GMA 4000M graphics and Intel Atom processor are certainly fast enough to run Windows XP Pro OS that it comes with (even with 1GB of memory), but the system won't exactly knock your socks off in terms of performance. We were only able to run one of our standard benchmark tests on the system. Cinebench R10 returned a middling 849 point score. This is well within the range set by previous 1.6GHz single-core Atom processors. Since the system has Intel integrated graphics and only 1GB of memory, it can't run our Window Media Encoder test and PhotoShop CS4 test. PCMark Vantage and 3dMark Vantage are also out of the question on this XP-based system.
Compared with the competition, the N260G is and isn't more business oriented. The system's low price, energy savings, and Altiris client (bundled with the system on a CD) certainly makes it an attractive choice for business users looking to keep overhead costs low, but the odd mix of bloatware mirror the drawbacks of Acer's consumer-oriented PCs. It competes well with similarly priced all-in-one nettops like the MSI Wind CS120 and ASUS Eee Top 1602 (when you take the Acer's extra monitor cost into account)However, our Editors' Choice all in one nettop, the Lenovo C300 (3012-2DU) is a much better system for $150 more. That's an even better bargain when you consider that a decent 20-inch monitor is $130-150 these days. For even more power, the Compaq Presario CQ5110f, the budget desktop Editors' Choice, is also a better performer. On the whole, the Acer Vertion VN260G-U2802CP makes the most sense when you measure your free desk space in millimeters, and your free money in pennies. It's an okay penny-pincher, but other desktops are more compelling if you needs are greater than simple Web surfing or pseudo thin client duties.
BENCHMARK TEST RESULTS: Check out the test scores for the Acer Veriton VN260G-U2802CP
More Desktop Reviews:
Dell Precision 5820 (2019)
Falcon Northwest Talon (2019)
Alienware Aurora R10 Ryzen Edition
Dell G5 Gaming Desktop
Dell OptiPlex 7070 Ultra


text:
On February 27th I participated in TMT.Ventures'08 conference for innovative technology entrepreneurs and ICT executives, local and regional VC's and angel investors, media people and industry opinion leaders. The event was held at the Warsaw Stock Exchange HQ, Poland.
The event gathered over 200 entrepreneurs and investment funds representatives. Over 400 people chatted and watched an on-line live broadcast.
I also co-moderated a '7 minutes' contest with Reshma Sohoni CEO of Seedcamp:
â7 minutesâ is a unique competition for innovative entrepreneurs and their projects from the space of telco, new media and new technologies. It is an express elevator up to the community of investors and experienced businesspeople with decision-making power whose recommendations and support are like rocket fuel for the projects aimed in the right direction.
â7 minutesâ is also a challenge for entrepreneurs trying to make an impression and deliver a convincing presentation in an extremely short period of 7 minutes. It is a test of self-confidence and charisma for the project-leaders standing in front of a demanding audience, their competition, world-class investors, bloggers, media people and TVN CNBC Biznes cameras transmitting the contest from the Warsaw Stock Exchange.
And I wrote that? wow! ;-)
The honorable '7 minutes' Jury making up it's mind.
I'll post a video and some more comments soon. Some pictures are available on New Europe Events' website: http://www.tmtevents.eu/7minut/PHOTO/