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Macro Monday:: Week 13
These macro shots are starting to really grow on me. I'm 13 weeks in or a quarter of the way through this adventure and I'm having such a blast searching around for material. The next couple months I'm sure will be filled with flowers. I'm loving the spring weather! We got up to 88 in Northern Virginia today. Anyways, I'll stop rambling and bring you this weeks image:
I wasn't sure I had this shot nailed, with the wind and people, and honestly wish it was a bit more sharp. Overall though, I love the pinks and soft feel of the whole image. This was taken yesterday while in DC visiting the Cherry Blossoms. I had so much fun and will be sharing some of my shots with you later in the week.
*Admin Note: Yesterday I posted on Facebook and wanted to mention this change here for everyone who follows this blog and has an interest in my photo walks. Please like my nicoleinbold facebook page for further updates and events. I am going through a reorganization, which means I will not be posting these things on my personal Facebook page starting this week. Oh and don't be alarmed that my web page isn't working, I'm in the process of switching hosting companies, things will be back up shortly! Thank you for you patience and support!
Be Inspired. Live Boldly.
walkinbold: crochet coral reef
Last weekend I took the opportunity to go downtown and visit the Hyperbolic Crochet Coral Reef. It was so overwhelming. To think over 300 people contributed to the making of this exhibit to showcase art and science in one place was amazing. With that said, I wanted to share some of my shots. I tend to experiment when I take these adventure trips, so they aren't always perfect. I hope you enjoy!
I would also like to take this time to plug what I am calling "walkinbold." I wanted to create an informal group for local photographers to just get out and shoot. Sometimes we get stuck, shutter block, or just feel lost. These events are designed for you to take pictures, ask questions, share your images and critique for the next event. These outings don't cost money, as in I don't charge anything, however there are a couple venues that do charge an admission fee. Please see my events page or like my facebook page to be alerted when events are happening. There is no pressure to go on all of them! I've complied a list of places with dates that I have chosen, want to see and share with you. I encourage people to make further suggestions, let me know about your favorite place to take pictures, or somewhere you have always been dying to go and lets make an event of it! Photography is a never ending learning career and hobby. We are always honing our skills. Feel free to ask questions and always bring your manual! I hope to see some you out and about!
Be Inspired. Live Boldly.
my favorite thing…
…and wander the places I go frequently. Happy April everyone! (The above is a print by the lovely 3LambsGraphics)
This weekend I plan to visit the DC Mall. I am so excited to see the Cherry Blossoms this year, one of my favorite events! I hope to see some of you down there soaking in some sun and the scenery. Here are a few shots from years past.
Do you have a special place that you like to revisit and wander?
Be Inspired. Live Boldly.


text: Here is the Loyalstar Microsoft Band 2 charging stand. Very nicely designed. Allows the Microsoft Band to charge and be available to display the time or incoming items, if needed, without tangling with the charging band lying on the table. your existing charge cable with the stand. Inserts magnetically into the stand, and can be removed quickly and easily if necessary. The Band is nicely propped and away from being harmed by spills or being crushed by books or other items. Available on the Microsoft Store for US$20. Reflection - not a crack

subset: commoncrawl


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The Compact Disc popularly known as CD is the data storage device used to store and retrieve datas encoded in digital format. It is an optical disc made of a special polycarbonate plastic known as Polymethyle Meta Acrylic. The CD reading and writing uses Laser beam generating from the Laser diode of the CD drive. Using the 780 nanometer near infrared Laser beam, the data can be stored in the Bits and Pits of the CD. Based on the Reflection and Scattering of the Laser light, The Optoelectronic tracking module in the CD drive retrieve the data.
The CD weighs 15 – 20 grams and has a thickness of 1.2 mm. Its reflecting side is coated with a thin layer of Aluminium and protected with a layer of Lacquer. Standard CD has a diameter of 120 mm and can store 700 MB uncompressed data. This can run around 80 minutes. Mini CD and Digital Video CD are also available to suit the requirements of the user.
CD may be Recordable CD and Rewritable CD.
Recordable CD
It is injection molded with a "blank" data spiral. A photosensitive dye is then applied, after which the discs are Metalized and lacquer-coated. The write laser of the CD Recorder changes the color of the dye to allow the read laser of a standard CD Player to see the data, just as it would with a standard stamped disc. The resulting discs can be read by most CD-ROM drives and played in most audio CD players.
Re Writable CD.
Rewritable CD is designed for 'Write and Erase' functions so that it is easy to erase the old data and record new data over it. Unlike the readable CD, the Rewritable CD has a Phase change compound coated in its reflective surface. This phase change substance is the compound of silver, antimony, tellurium and indium. This compound changes its physical state on heating depending on the temperature applied. When the temperature rises above its melting point (around 600 degree) it changes to liquid form and in its crystallization point (around 200 degree) it becomes solid. Unlike the ordinary CD, in Rewritable CD, the bumps are represented by the phase changes in the compound. When it is in the 'Crystalline form', it remains translucent so that laser light can reflect back. When the compound becomes 'Amorphous' due melting, it becomes non translucent and laser light will not reflect back. These changes during melting can 'lock' the phase change in place.
The erasing process changes the crystalline and amorphous states of the compound through melting. The high temperature from the Laser beam will change the states of the compound so that the data in the form of translucent and non translucent areas in the reflective layer will be erased. During writing, the high power laser beam melts points corresponding to the bumps of the conventional CD. They block the read laser so that it will not reflect. These non reflective melted points remain as opaque and represent 0s. The crystalline reflective areas represent 1s.
Storage Capacity
The CD can store large quantity of data as series of tiny indentations known as "pits", encoded in a spiral track molded into the top of the polycarbonate layer. The areas between pits are known as "lands". Each pit is approximately 100 micrometer deep by 500 nm wide, and varies from 850 nm to 3.5 micrometer in length. CD-ROM capacities are normally expressed with binary prefixes, subtracting the space used for error correction data. A standard 120 mm, 700 MB CD-ROM can actually hold about 737 M. Scanning velocity of the CD is 1.2–1.4 m/s equivalent to approximately 500 rpm at the inside of the disc, and approximately 200 rpm at the outside edge. (A disc played from beginning to end slows down during playback).
CD Reading
CD players use laser technology to read the optically recorded data in the form of Bits and Pits on a CD. About 20000 or more tracks are found in a CD's recording surface. The distance between the tracks, the pitch, is 1.6 µm. A CD is read by focusing a 780 nm wavelength(Near Infrared)Semiconductor Laser through the bottom of the polycarbonate layer. The change in height between pits and lands results in a difference in intensity in the light reflected. By measuring the intensity change with a Photodiode, the data can be read from the disc. The digital information is defined as the length of pits and distance between them. The pits and reflective surface represents logic 0 and logic 1. The pits and lands themselves do not directly represent the zeros and ones of Binary Data. Instead, Non returned to zero Inverted (NRZI) encoding is used: a change from pit to land or land to pit indicates a one, while no change indicates a series of zeros. There must be at least two and no more than ten zeros between each one, which is defined by the length of the pit.
The Magic of Eye
The laser diode- lens assembly forms the optical system of the CD player. The laser diode- lens assembly is generally known as 'Eye of CD player". The lens system focuses the laser beam reflected onto the CD and reflected back light is collected by the objective lens and transmitted to the detector system. When a Laser beam is focused on to the CD, because of a difference between the depth of pits and wavelength of the laser beam, a phase difference develops between the light reflected from pits and the reflecting surface. The reflected light is then modulated by the receiver system. Before passing to the detector, the reflected laser beam is polarized and aligned to 90 degrees. The detector is a photo sensor that produces corresponding electrical signals which are then amplified and separated into corresponding video and audio signals.
CD Burning
CD burning is an amazing technology and its working principle is really fascinating. CD burners encode music and other datas on to the blank CD which can be retrieved through CD reading. CD stores the datas in digital form represented by a series of 1s and 0s. The 1s are represented by tiny bumps and the 0s as flat areas. Such millions of bumps and flats areas are present in a standard size CD.
CD-R recordings are designed to be permanent. Over time the dye's physical characteristics may change, however, causing read errors and data loss until the reading device cannot recover with error correction methods. The design life is from 20 to 100 years, depending on the quality of the discs, the quality of the writing drive, and storage conditions. The bumps and flat areas are present on the reflective side of the CD which is arranged in continuous tracks. These tracks measures about 0.5 microns and can stretch about 5 Kms. During CD reading, a 'Read laser beam' passes over the flat area in the track. The laser beam will reflect back which will be passed onto a photo sensor assembly. The Photo sensor interprets the reflected laser light as 1. When the laser light bounce back from the bumps, the photo sensor will not get it and the CD player recognize it as 0.
CD writer is used to burn the CD to record the data in the digital format. The CD burner darkens microscopic areas in the reflective side of the 'Blank CD'. During burning, both reflective and non reflective areas are created in the CD that can be interpreted as 1 and 0 by the CD player. The CD burner has a laser assembly similar to the CD reader. But the laser is 'Write Laser' with high power around 40 mW. The write laser interacts with the CD and alters its surface.
The movement of the Write laser assembly is exactly similar to the read laser assembly. It moves outward from the centre of the CD while the CD is spinning. The bottom layer of the 'Blank CD' has grooves pre pressed into it to guide the write laser in the correct path. By calibrating the spin speed and speed of the laser assembly, the burner will guide the laser assembly exactly through the track at a constant speed. During the movement, the laser diode will turn on and off in synch with the pattern of 1s and 0s in the track. The high power laser then darkens the CD material to encode 0 and leaves the material translucent to represent 1.
The CD writing speed can be varied depending on the choice. The CD burner can write at multiple speeds. 1x is the writing speed exactly similar to the reading speed. That is ,it takes 60 minutes to write 60 minute duration data. At 2x rate, the burner will take 30 minute to write 60 minutes data. The general writing speeds are 8x, 16x, 24x, 32x etc. It is better to avoid high speed writing since at high speed, some of the data will not be stored especially when writing Music files. The normal writing speed is 16x or 24x.
CD Writing Software
To control all the functions of the CD writer, software like Nero is used. The datas accessible for all types of CD players are encoded in the understandable form by the software. The programme also reduces the data errors during writing. This is achieved by incorporating a number of extra digital information with the recorded data and arranges them carefully. The format gives 'Time Codes' during writing so that the CD player can recognize which part is reading at a particular time. The format also gives 'Table of contents' at the beginning of the track (centre of CD) so that the CD player can recognize, which file is reading. 'Extra data bits' are also added so that the player can fix the mistakes if the laser misread the data bit. The recorded data is not arranged sequentially but in an 'inter laced pattern'. This prevents the loss of complete data from the CD, if a portion of the CD is damaged
CD damage
CDs are susceptible to damage from both daily use and environmental exposure. Pits are much closer to the label side of a disc, so that defects and dirt on the clear side can be out of focus during playback. Consequently, CDs suffer more scratch damage on the label side whereas scratches on the clear side can be repaired by refilling them with similar refractive plastic, or by careful polishing.


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An excellent coach will help you:
- Clarify your real goals
- Identify a plan that will work
- Follow-through on your "good" intentions
- Give you honest and helpful feedback that will inspire you
- Raise your game to another level
- Believe in you even when you don't
- Push you to achieve only what you dreamed about in the past
Do you need a coach, take this quick assessment:
- Are you getting pressure to achieve better results from your boss?
- Do you desire a promotion and a higher income?
- Do you know your team can do better but they are under-achieving?
- Do you need to improve your leadership skills based on others feedback?
- Do you want to recapture your excitement for your career and ramp it up?
- Do you know you can be a better leader but you just aren't getting the help you need?
- Are you committed to being more effective and want to improve your confidence and competence?
If you answered YES to one or more of these questions, coaching can help you get where you NEED or WANT to go-FASTER? WHY NOT MAKE THIS YEAR YOUR BEST EVER?
Check out our 4 COACHING options to ACCELERATE RESULTS!


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It's true, the restaurant critic's fridge is brimming with boxes and bags of leftovers. But sometimes you just bring the stuff home because you really didn't like it at all, and felt guilty leaving a plate full of uneaten food for a friendly waiter to inquire about.
I'm not going out to eat every single day, though. When I have the time to cook -- and especially when I have the foresight to plan and shop for a meal -- it's usually the most Zen part of my day. Chop chop chop chop . . .
Most of the time, I'm putting things together, not exactly cooking. Sandwiches, salads, simple breakfasty things.
I also love to cook MacGyver-style, whipping something up out of semi-desperation, using whatever's handy. Winging it is generally more fun than following a recipe for me.
Unless, of course, it comes to baking. One of my all-time favorites is my mom's recipe for made-from-scratch chocolate cupcakes with cooked cream filling. These are absolutely to die for, better than Sprinkles and Tammie Coe combined, as far as I'm concerned. They're also labor intensive -- each cupcake needs to be hand-cut and filled -- so I haven't made them in over a year. Can you tell I'm getting hungry for them again?
I appreciate the occasional quirky recipe from one of the food mags. But sometimes I'm content to just read the recipe and imagine what it tastes like when I don't have the time or the fancy equipment to actually make it.
Usually I head out for Asian food, but if I make it at home, it's a stir-fry or something Japanese. Okonomiyaki and a cold beer never does me wrong.
My "gourmet" kitchen is that of a tiny 1940s house with an antique stove (only one rack in the oven, babe!), so it's much easier to make traditional Sunday dinner meals -- roast chicken with waffles and gravy (that's PA Dutch-style chicken and waffles), or roast pork tenderloin with mashed potatoes. Come grilling season, I'm happy for an excuse to bust out of that tiny kitchen and play with meats and marinades in the great outdoors.
For far too long, I only had two working burners on my stovetop. My attempts to find someone to repair the old O'Keefe & Merritt never got me anywhere. And then a third burner stopped working. At that point, it was hard to even make spaghetti. How lame! I know.
So I killed an entire afternoon by obsessively taking the stovetop apart, figuring out how it worked, and cleaning the small tubes that take the gas from two pilot lights to each burner. While I was at it, I wiped away a few decades of dust and grease that had built up in there. It was disgustingly satisfying.
And then, whoosh! The burners were all working. And now I can, boil, fry, and saute all at once. How MacGyver of me.
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We were on a journey that would eventually take us to those seven historical locations. The first one, where we are standing in the picture, was the ruins of the city of Ephesus, John, while complimenting most of those seven churches for something good, also challenged them over something that was a failure in their lives and needing correcting and to the church at Ephesus the problem he addressed was one of "forsaking their first love."
I suppose that was proven by their church attendance falling off because they were more excited about doing other things than they were going to church on Sunday. Or maybe they were not witnessing to the lost as much as they used to. Worse yet, they may not have been giving their tithe the past several months because of their busyness doing other things that had taken them away from church attendance.
You get the picture.
In that condition the church cannot function with the effectiveness it needs. Workers can't be found for the organization, new members aren't being added to the rolls, and money will be tight and programs have to be downsized as a result. The church is simply in a bad way because it's members have "Lost their first love."
This word can be and has been translated "to hold fast or to hem in" in some translations. But a better translation, I think, is found in the NIV which translates συνέχει as, "To urge, to impel, to excite one to press on." Paul is saying that Christ's powerful love for us is the driving inner force for the living a life of grace and love. In other words, knowing "How much we are loved by Christ" is our motivation for the doing of anything because then it will simply be our responding to His love. Paul had passed this idea along to those in Ephesus as well. It was obviously a real conviction with him.
They needed to "repent" of that [change their way of thinking] and "return" to their original heart of responding to God's grace and love. [Loving Him and others BECAUSE He loves them.]
Paul B.


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Medical Imaging Center of Hoffman Estates, IL provides a variety of high quality medical and diagnostic imaging services at a fraction of hospital costs including open field MRI, CT scan, Nuclear Medicine, stress testing, EKG, Ultrasound, whole body scan, and X-ray–a wide range of radiology services.
Call our office at 847-310-8378 to schedule same-day appointment and results to your doctor within 24 hours of the test. Doctor referral letter required outlining desired test.
All tests are monitored and interpreted by board certified technologists or radiologists.
Magnetic resonance imaging or MRI is a "high-tech" system using high strength magnetic fields, radio waves, and computers to derive series of detailed two dimensional "slice" images.
Due to its revolutionary open design, this high-quality, state-of-the art imaging equipment gives even larger or claustrophobic patients better access to testing. Our patients benefit from improved comfort because the equipment is open. The 0.7 Tesla HIGH FIELD strength gives a higher quality image too!
Learn more about "The MRI Scan: Medical Discovery"
CT Scan
Medical Imaging Center is proud to offer the state-of-the-art multi-slice spiral CT Technology.
This imaging allows the radiologist to look at different levels of the body "slice by slice." The results from this rapid and painless scan can offer you peace of mind for a healthy future.
Learn more about "CT Scans: Diagnostic Power"
Cardiac Stress Tests
Medical Imaging Center offers a variety of diagnostic stress tests for the heart.
Learn more about "Cardiac Stress Test: Heart Health Check-Up"
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear Stress Testing is a non-invasive procedure that allows for the imaging of blood flow in and through the heart. This frequently performed test helps your physician evaluate your heart's fitness and screen for possible heart blockages.
Learn more about "Nuclear Medicine: Getting to the Heart"
Ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging technique that allows a physician to see inside the body. This painless procedure relies on the computer assisted processing of high frequency sound waves produced by a transducer. It requires no radiation. Our highly trained technologists perform these important diagnostic procedures.
Learn more about "Ultrasound: Seeing is Believing"
An echocardiogram, often called "echo," is a graphic outline of the heart's movement. During this test, ultrasound waves provide pictures of the heart's valves and chambers. This important test allows us to evaluate the pumping action of the heart and make sure your heart is working properly. It is an effective tool that can be used to follow the progress of heart valve disease over time and also to evaluate the effectiveness of medical or surgical treatments performed on the heart.
Learn more about "Echocardiogram: Results from Echoes"
We also offer Vascular Studies, Bone Density Testing, Neurological Testing, Wellness Testing, and Digital X-rays.


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My time in Australia was drawing to a close. I'd learned a lot, but I needed some practical tips which would help my friends in UK to come over to the Australian digital market.
It was time to grab the biggest smoothie in town and sit down to talk with nuclei's Managing Director Dorota Dopieriala.
Polish-born Dorota started nuclei recruitment a little over 3 years ago, responding to the growing demand in the digital media and marketing sector. Since then, she and her company have helped hundreds of people into new roles across the breadth of the Australian digital market. Dorota is also a sponsoring employer as well, having employed people from the UK. Definitely someone in the know.
So what were her top tips for people looking to come over from the UK?
Dorota's top tips
1. "Do it sooner rather than later"
"It's getting more difficult for companies to sponsor people" she begins. "One of the people I hired 2 1/2 years ago wouldn't qualify for sponsorship if I were to apply to sponsor them now."
So why is this?
Unemployment is at a ten year high in Australia, so the government is focussed on encouraging employers to hire local candidates across the market. The rules are just getting tighter. You'll need a relevant degree and a few years relevant experience now and this could become tighter. Demand is still high in digital but Dorota's advice is to do it while you can.
2. "Make yourself available"
Linked to the above, companies need to forecast the ratio of native hires they'll make alongside sponsored employees, and this is being watched. If a sponsored employee doesn't work out, they don't get the license back, so they lose it. "You need to show them you're serious about moving here" remarks Dorota, "You need to win their confidence."
This comes down to little things – making yourself available, for a start. Accept the fact that you might need to interview reasonably late in the evening and make sure you can take the call – the process can drag on for a while if calls are missed and you may well be interviewing against people in Australia already.
3. "Brace yourself for the reality"
According to Dorota, this is a pretty important one – "It sounds so obvious, but many candidates don't do this before they start to interview, and then it hits them." Moving to Australia is a big move and it's worth thinking things through properly.
What will you do with your stuff? How will you stay in touch with friends and family? What will Christmas be like away from everyone you know? If you have a partner, talk things through properly and make sure you're both in the same boat.
4. "Set your expectations right"
"People from the UK will be interviewing against Australian candidates at the same level" says Dorota – the difference is that there's just not as many Australian candidates in the market. It's not that the demand is specifically for UK candidates, it's more to cover shortfall. "We get a lot of candidates expecting a huge premiums for moving from the UK" adds Dorota, "But it rarely happens."
5. "Be selective on the recruitment front"
The market's not huge over here.
Much like the UK, it's also saturated with recruitment companies and much like the UK, these include the good, the bad and the very bad. Some recruiters will send your CV out to every company in the market and in a market this size, that's not going to be great.
Dorota's advice is to talk to people in the market and get a measure for which recruiters are good and which recruiters are not. You can cover the market with one good recruiter and more importantly, get genuinely solid advice on things like salary level. More is not merrier.
[A little note from yours truly at this point – nuclei is actually the third recruitment partner we've had in the Australian market and at the time of writing, we've partnered them for about 2 years. They genuinely are head and shoulders above the rest (and I'm not just saying that because I'm sitting in their office)]
6. "Get ready for an adventure"
"It really is an exciting market" reflects Dorota, as she sips from her gigantic smoothie. "I think a lot of people move over here for the lifestyle and are surprised by how good the market is here. I came to visit for a year, and here I still am. It's a great place to call home."


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@titude Dance Leeds was founded in 2010, initially as a street dance club. There are currently over one hundred and sixty pupils from 2 to 20 years of age, who are offered classes in a wide range of dance styles.
@titude Dance Class Timetable
Classes, times, locations and information about each of our classes.
@titude Events & News
Find out what is going on at @titude, with information on shows, parties and events.
@titude Merchandise
View all the merchandise which is branded with the @titude Dance logo.


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Nepali short story has achieved its present state of development in shorter time than other genres. This area of literature has already been enriched by a number of classic world-class short stories. The contribution of the figures such as Guru Prasad Mainali, Pushkar Samser Rana, Posan Pande, Indra Bahadur Rai, Biseswor Prasad Koirala, Bhimnidhi Tiwari, Bhawani Bhikshu, Paarizaat can hardly be exaggerated.
© Online Sahitya Digital Library, All rights reserved. Online Sahitya is a digital library dedicated to Nepali Art and Nepali Literature.For further details contact: email@example.com.


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Boiler and Machinery Coverage
Boiler and machinery coverage provides protection for damage to the heating and ventilation systems, air conditioning and generators within the participant's buildings. This coverage also includes any structural property loss arising out of damage to the above-noted machinery and systems. For example, if the failure of a mechanical system results in overheating, fire or explosion, the resulting damage from this system failure would be covered under this policy.
In addition to paying for these damages, many boiler and machinery programs (including our own) also provide the mandatory inspections of the boilers or pressure vessels. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires these annual inspections, which are sometimes referred to as "jurisdictionals." Engineers perform the inspections and file the reports with the state.
CNA Risk Control is RCAB's insurance company for Boiler and Machinery.
CNA Risk Control
4 Century Drive, 2nd Floor
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Steve Kapnis
Tel: (978) 536-5116
To arrange an inspection, please contact:
Renee Henderson
Tel: (973) 540-3644
For more information, please contact the Manager of Risk Analysis and Reporting.


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Crosby kids recall duet with Bowie
David Bowie's duet with Bing Crosby on the entertainer's 1977 Christmas television special left an indelible impression on Crosby's teenage children.
Harry, Mary and Nathaniel Crosby were on set when Bowie arrived to tape his appearance. The mash-up between the cardigan-clad singer known for White Christmas and the glam rocker who was in his Ziggy Stardust phase required some last-minute reworking of The Little Drummer Boy.
The result was a new melody and lyrics called Peace On Earth. The duet remains a holiday staple and a curiosity. Bowie was 30 and Crosby was 73 at the time. Crosby died of a heart attack a month after the taping in September 1977.
Mary Crosby remembered Bowie arriving on set.
"The doors opened and David walked in with his wife. They were both wearing full-length mink coats, they have matching full make-up and their hair was bright red," she told the summer TV critics' tour. "We were thinking, 'Oh my god'."
Nathaniel Crosby added: "It almost didn't happen. I think the producers told him to take the lipstick off and take the earring out. It was just incredible to see the contrast."
Watching in the wings, the Crosby kids noticed a transformation.
"They sat at the piano and David was a little nervous," Mary Crosby recalled. "Dad realised David was this amazing musician, and David realised Dad was an amazing musician. You could see them both collectively relax and then magic was made."
The Crosby siblings - now all in their 50s - and their 80-year-old mother, Kathryn, made a rare public appearance together to discuss the American Masters episode, Bing Crosby Rediscovered, airing on December 2 on PBS.
PA Media


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Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT) / Micro-needling & Introduction to PRP
This CIT Pen / Micro-needling Course is based on peer-reviewed research, many hours of protocol/product development testing, and now hosts the latest micro-needling certification training available.
Why offer CIT with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Clinical research proves that one of the best ways to improve skin's tone and texture is by stimulating the body's own healing process. CIT/ Micro-needling improves skin's firmness while reducing the appearance of fine lines and acne scars, all with minimal downtime. PRP has a long history of use in sports and orthopedic medicine as well as dentistry and reconstructive surgery. PRP has also proven that it can also significantly benefit cosmetic facial rejuvenation, dermatology and rapidly speed skin wound healing.
How Does CIT/ Micro-needling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) work?
With the CIT Pen, Needles are used to break down old tissue, causing deliberate, minor injury to the skin's surface, thereby stimulating a healing response. Over time, new collagen is produced and the result is younger, healthier, more beautiful looking skin. By creating these microscopic channels, topically applied nutrients can be absorbed at a much higher level. In fact, within the hour after treatment, they can be absorbed at a 3,000 % higher rate. When combined with PRP, the results are enhanced tremendously.
Brief description of how PRP is obtained and why:
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) occurs naturally in our bodies. To harvest a patients PRP, a small amount of blood is drawn from the patient and placed in a sterile tube, then spun in a centrifuge to separate red and white cells from platelets and plasma (buffy coat). This plasma now has a higher than normal number of elevated platelets, thus making it platelet-rich plasma. When applied to the skin, PRP grows new collagen and elasticity by softening sun damage, smoothing and tightening the treated skin. It is an effective treatment as preventative and in correcting common age-related skin concerns such as uneven tone and texture in the skin due to hormonal Melasma, hyper pigmentation, sun damage, scarring (acne, surgical, and thermal), fine lines, sagging, decreased firmness, and pore size reduction.
Course Overview:
- Significant opportunities for hands-on micro-needling treatment on live patients, guided by an experienced educator/practicing professional - Phlebotomist on site will draw each course participants blood (as long as they are willing and there are no contraindications). Each course participant will get to experience the benefits of this treatment by working hands-on to separate their plasma or models plasma, along with giving and receiving topical or transdermal delivery of PRP.
- Skin anatomy and skin physiology
- Skin nutrition (topical and internal), Lifestyle factors
- Patient Selection
- Contraindications to both PRP and CIT.
- Benefits and lifecycle of the treatment
- Understand protocols for client preparation with pre and post procedural care instructions and what to be expected
- Advantages of mechanical fractional modalities compared to other treatment modalities
- Topical absorption compared to transdermal delivery of product absorption
- Comparing and combining CIT with other modalities
- Reducing wound stress and inflammation
- Wound repair physiology and differential healing responses
- Treatment planning and case studies
- Work hands-on to learn the techniques used to separate the highest concentration of plasma from red blood cells.
- Understanding additives
- Choosing the proper topical products for CIT and timing of application
- Methods to increase topical absorption
- Mechanisms of action
- Variety of CIT methods for specific skin concerns and treatment areas using, the nano, 12-tipped, and 36-tipped disposable cartridges
- Product knowledge and key term review
- FDA Restrictions and Indications for use
- Legality, liability, and state requirements (applications will be provided)
- Implementing these services into your treatment menu
- Marketing techniques
*Work book, study guides, full protocol for both CIT and CIT with PRP, consent forms and marketing material with participants company logo, state requirement applications, post care enhancement serum, shade factor supplement, lypospheric Vitamin C, and Glutathione supplements will be provided.
* Available through our vendors:
- PRP referral service placement discounts
- Blog publishing opportunities
- Dermesse minimum order dropped
- Discounted Phlebotomy and IV Nutrient Therapy certification courses through Clinical Solutions
Course Options:
The Esthetics Academy is proud to partner with Herbal Skin Solutions and the CIT Pen. This course is offered with three separate options:
Option 1: Participants that register with this option will be provided with the CIT Pen Package from Herbal Skin Solutions. This is a great opportunity for participants to start practicing with the tools that they are taught with in this course. Please visit HerbalSkinSolutions.com for more details on the CIT Pen Package. The CIT pen package will be provided at the start of the course.
Option 2: Registration without the CIT Pen Package.
Option 3**: Current Owners of the CIT Pen from Herbal Skin Solutions can register for this course for a REDUCED FEE!
** Only one participant per CIT Pen may register with Option 3.


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FREDERICTON—New Brunswick's trade-policy minister says he's confident Atlantic Canadian lumber exports will remain excluded from U.S. duties once President Donald Trump sees the facts.
Roger Melanson, who is also president of the province's Treasury Board, says he's been working alongside the federal government to secure exclusions in place since 1982.
The U.S. Commerce Department is expected to release a preliminary decision by Tuesday whether to impose duties on Canadian softwood, which American producers say is overly subsidized and unfairly floods their market.
Read more:
'It's not a surprise': Morneau downplays Trump's sudden trade attack on Canada
Donald Trump says what Canada has 'done to our dairy farmers is a disgrace'
Trump has called Canada's actions a "disgrace" when it comes to dairy, lumber, timber and energy.
There have been estimates the duties could range from 20-40 per cent.
"We do not know for sure what the determination will be, but certainly a duty in that range would have an impact on the New Brunswick economy, and certainly on New Brunswick communities where the forestry industry is so important," Melanson said Friday.
He said there could be very serious local impacts if specific mills are idled or permanently closed.
Duties have the potential to impact 14 companies operating a total of 25 sawmills in New Brunswick. Representatives of those companies declined any comment as they entered a meeting with the provincial government Friday afternoon in Fredericton.
More than 86 per cent of the province is forested. The forestry industry contributes $1.45 billion to the New Brunswick economy each year and employs more than 22,000 people.
For more than 30 years, Atlantic Canada has been excluded from every softwood lumber agreement and all trade litigation due to unique market conditions.
Melanson said he has had meetings in recent weeks with state officials in Massachusetts and Maine to explain why the exemptions should continue.
"I think when we show the facts, and the results, to the new administration in Washington, I think they'll get it," he said.
The minister uses the example of Junction Lumber in Bathurst, N.B., which he says creates 20 jobs in New Brunswick because of the partnership and access to the U.S. market. Can-Am Cedar, which creates playground equipment with wood from Junction Lumber, creates 12 jobs in Maine.
The New Brunswick government has set up a task force to address the possible duties. Melanson said it aims to determine and mitigate the impact that next week's ruling could have on New Brunswick communities.
Opposition critic Ross Wetmore says the task force is a case of too little, too late.
"A month before the duties are to take place, they decide to appoint a task force," he said. "We should have been at the table long ago."


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Top 5 Deals of the Week
Call 01327 300 016 for more information.
Hadley S1
Classenti CDP1 in cherry
Second Hand Broadway B1 in rosewood
£650 (Ex-Demo)
Rimhoff (acoustic upright piano)
£995 (was £1495)
Baby grand (acoustic)
All second hand digital pianos
All second hand uprights
All second hand grands
Looks can be deceiving
Some used pianos (often called secondhand pianos or reconditioned pianos) look fantastic on the outside but are often in need of a complete overhaul on the inside. Only a piano tuner or piano technician will be able to advise you if you should buy it or not, and it is well worth the money to pay a professional to take a look at a used piano before you have committed to buying it.
Does the age of a used piano matter?
If your acoustic piano was built within the last 20 years then you shouldn't have a problem (providing it has been looked after!). Older pianos are only worth considering if they are in excellent condition or if they have been built with good quality materials. In some instances a 70 year old used Bechstein or Steinway piano is often in better condition than a modern piano of only a few years old.
Used Upright Pianos
Browse through the used upright piano section. You can compare the age, condition, quality and rating of each second hand upright piano. All used upright pianos in this section have been reconditioned and have passed the UK Pianos quality control check.
You need to be careful when buying a used digital piano. Digital pianos are electronic and can be quite expensive to repair if something goes wrong. Repairs can cost between £100 and £300.
Before you buy a second hand digital piano, make sure you play each note in turn, check that all the sounds are even throughout, and there aren't any strange noises coming from the keys. You might also want to check that all the different musical instrument sounds are working.
Have You Heard Of Piano Rental?
Not sure if your child will take to playing the piano?
Are you worried about the initial investment?…
Then check out our 'rent-to-own' programme!
Click here for details.
Questions and Answers
Dear Graham,
Thanks for your helpful ebook on buying a piano which I got hold of through your website.
We are thinking of getting a used 2nd hand Clavinova through eBay having already got a CLP430 as
we live in two different locations. Have you any advice on this? Most Clavinovas that are
advertised are older models that have been discontinued and so are not covered in your guide.
Best wishes,
Reply/ Hi Cal
Buying an old piano on eBay is a bit of a risk…
There's no way of knowing how much the piano
has been played. Mechanical parts start showing
signs of wear and tear after 10 years of moderate
playing. Noisy, clicky and sticky keys are the most
common problems.
A piano that has been hammered with scales and
arpeggios on a daily basis is likely to be worn out
in a much shorter time.
If you want to buy second hand then I recommend
getting something no more than 3 years old.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Confused about which used piano to buy? Need more information? Join the UK Pianos newsletter and get regular tips on used digital, upright and grand pianos.
Check out the Piano Market for more used pianos.
What Our Customers Say…
"Many thanks for all your replies and help with this — the piano indeed was unsuitable, as many of you suggested, so I will keep looking."
Best wishes,
Richard Charlton


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Welcome to the gateway to your perfect happiness.
Love is real, and love never fails.
Jeff and Shaleia understand the principles of the Universe that attract ALL LOVE to you.
Through the mastery of these principals, they manifested their Ultimate Lover, Best Friend, and Perfect Divine Complement.
They call this your "Twin Flame."
As they discovered how powerful, beautiful, perfect, satisfying, and loving harmonious Twin Flame Union is, they knew they could not keep it to themselves.
So many were espousing what others called "Twin Flames," but Jeff and Shaleia saw these entertainers knew nothing of real love, and set out to teach the real thing.
We guarantee permanent harmonious Union with your True Twin Flame through Twin Flame Ascension School
Jeff and Shaleia are the pioneers of harmonious Twin Flame Union on this planet and have successfully brought many to meet their Twin Flame, to come into Union with their true Twin Flame, and even attain the eternal spiritual status of harmonious Twin Flame Union with their True Twin Flame.
Have you come here searching for true love, forever?
Have you longed for a love so perfect, it could have only been created for you specifically by your Creator?
Have you desired for a safe place to call home while you are supported in your spiritual work?
Then you have arrived.
Twin Flame Ascension School is your portal to not only perfect love, but your total spiritual ascension.
Achieving harmonious Union with your True Twin Flame means you have finished your internal spiritual journey to the center of your Divine Self, and you have found another there with you, your True Twin Flame.
In this place you see what God has created for you, and who you were created to be with eternally.
In this place, you accept yourself and your Twin Flame as Divine, beautiful, perfect, and loving, and you commit to each other eternally.
Once this has happened, you will have an eternal, harmonious Union with your True Twin Flame.
Don't understand how, what this means, how to get there, or even anything else spiritually?
Don't worry, Jeff and Shaleia speak in a way that everyone can understand.
From the most advanced spiritual students, to those brand new to spirituality, relationships, love, and inner work, Jeff and Shaleia communicate in a simple, yet profound and powerful way that gets straight to the core of your heart. They will guide you all the way home to your core self, where you realize you are perfect love, perfectly loving, and perfectly lovable. You are deserving of all your Good, and attaining harmonious Union with your True Twin Flame dissolves the foundation of the painful illusion of separation from your Good. In other words, take the class and embody the teachings, and you'll find a state of consciousness within yourself which creates your reality for you perfectly.
Classes are uploaded weekly with students you will come to know and love as you watch their Twin Flame journeys unfold. You'll develop a relationship with each of the students, and with Jeff and Shaleia as love moves through them to share with you your specific message each week. Love is the real teacher, and you'll come to find that even though classes are recorded, you are treated with limitless personal attention and consideration by your Creator through this class.
In addition to recorded classes, we maintain a facebook group where open discussion of classes takes place. The group is cared for intensely by Jeff and Shaleia, and you will find a safe and loving place to open up, share, and discuss your Twin Flame journey, and connect with others on theirs. Joining the group is absolutely free. CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP.
The first three classes are free, so you have an opportunity to deeply explore this path for you, get to know some of the students, and learn how this scientific process of coming into harmonious Union works.
Over and over again Jeff and Shaleia's work on Twin Flames has proven that yes, everyone does have a Twin Flame created for them by God. Yes, all you need to do is choose love and move forward into your loving choices. Yes, all is handled for you by God. And yes, Jeff and Shaleia are lovingly guiding you in the fastest, most direct, and most compassionate way possible.
Manifesting your Twin Flame is easy, and coming into harmonious Twin Flame Union is simple. Join Jeff, Shaleia, and their beloved students in Twin Flame Ascension School. It will be the best decision you have ever made in your life.


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How Our Ancient Brains Face Our Modern Diet
Monday, November 26, 2018 - 6:00pm to 7:30pm
Franklin Theater
- Adults
- Families
- Free
- Educators
- Evening
- Members
- Public
Obesity is a global epidemic with roots that lie in our early senses of taste and smell. Yet both the biology of the human body and complex social factors make this a challenging problem to solve. How do our senses drive our food habits, what are some strategies to help us make better decisions, and what are the innovative programs that are improving health in Philadelphia?
Join the lively conversation led by Franklin Institute Chief Bioscientist Dr. Jayatri Das with special experts Dr. Shiriki Kumanyika from the Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health and Dr. Nancy Rawson from the Monell Chemical Senses Center.
Dr. Jayatri Das, Chief Bioscientist, The Franklin Institute
Featured Guests:
Shiriki Kumanyika, Ph.D., M.S., M.P.H. | Research Professor, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health
Nancy Rawson, Ph.D. | Associate Director, Monell Chemical Senses Center
The speaker series is free and open to the public, with advance registration required.
Ticket Prices:
Free; Advance Registration Required


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Gionee Elife E7 Officially Announced: Specs, Price, India Release Date And Competition
Chinese smartphone manufacturers have been excelling in the business quite well these days. Following the footsteps of Huawei which has already occupied the third position in the global smartphone market share in Q3, Gionee also looks to capture some market share and has announced the their latest handset in the Chinese market.
The device that was unveiled in Shanghai yesterday, comes dubbed as Elife E7, the proud successor of E6. Talking about the specs, the handset comes with a 5.5-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) IPS touch screen display based on One Glass Solution from JDI with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection and a 2.33mm ultra-narrow frame.
Powering the handset is Qualcomm's most powerful 2.2 GHz quad-core Snapdragon 800 MSM8974 processor. However this processor is meant for just the 3G variant of the handset. While the 4G LTE version will be clocked to 2.5 GHz quad-core Snapdragon MSM8974AC processor. Both the variants of the handsets run on Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) OS with a layer of Amigo 2.0 UI.
Moving on to the imaging domain, the Elife E7 features a 16-megapixel auto focus rear camera with 1/2.3″ 1.34 µm Largan M8 sensor, 5 element Sapphire Lens and a unique and stunning 8-megapixel auto focus front-facing shooter.
Again, Gionee Elife E7 comes in two variants 2GB RAM with 16GB internal memory and 3GB RAM with 32GB internal memory.
Connectivity options include LTE/3G, WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, WiFi Direct, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, USB,OTG and NFC.
Further, Elife E7 measures 150.6 x 75.0 x 9.5mm-6.2mm and weighs 150 grams and draws its energy from a 2500 mAh built-in battery.
Concerning the UI features, Elife E7 has new ways to wake up the screen such as Double Tap, Black Screen Gesture that lets you draw the gestures on the black screen to go to customized apps and Voice Control. On top of that, this handset also incorporates 3 microphones for noise cancellation as well.
The Elife E7 comes in Black, White, Blue, Green, Orange and Red colors and is priced at 2,699 Chinese Yuan (approx. Rs. 27,665) for the 16GB variant and the 32GB variant will cost 3,199 Chinese Yuan (approx. Rs. 32,790). It would be available for pre-order in China later this month and would go on sale on December 12. The Gionee Elife E7L with LTE support would be available in the first quarter of 2014.
The Elife E7 would launch globally in the early 2014 including India. Gionee has also announced that the company would launch the E7 mini with a Mediatek octa-core chipset in the coming months.
Amid growing popularity of phablets in India, it is for sure that Gionee Elife E7 will have to face a tough battle in the market from lot of others which comes from the roots of strong tech manufacturers. First of all the major native rival Huawei will be one with utmost concern. Others like Samsung and LG will also be suffering.
If the device comes in India, it will rival with almost all the Indian premium handsets like Micromax Canvas Turbo and Karbonn Titanium S7 as well. But GizBot has chosen Samsung Galaxy Note 3, Lenovo K900, LG Optimus G Pro, Galaxy Note 2 and also Sony Xperia Z Ultra as its potential rivals. All these devices come with a similar size and features somewhat similar specs as well. There are differences in the price.
Take a look at the specs and price of the devices followed by a verdict in the end in the slider below.
Click Here For New Gionee Elife E7 Smartphone Gallery
Samsung Galaxy Note 2
5.55-inch Super AMOLED Capacitive Touchscreen
1.6 GHz Quad Core Cortex-A9 Processor
Android v4.1 (Jelly Bean) OS
1.9 MP Secondary Camera
Expandable Storage Capacity of 64 GB
Full HD Recording
8 MP Primary Camera
FM Radio
Wi-Fi Enabled
Click here for full specs
Price: Rs. 31,500
LG Optimus G Pro
5.5-inch 1080p Full HD IPS Screen (400 ppi Resolution)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 1.7 GHz Quad Core Processor
Android Jellybean (v4.1.2)
3140 mAh Battery Capacity
13 MP Primary and 2.1 MP Secondary Full HD Camera
Dual Camera / Dual Recording
VR Panorama
Click here for full specs
Price: Rs. 27,499
Samsung Galaxy Note 3
5.7-inch Full HD Super AMOLED (1920 x 1080) Display
Octa Core Processor (1.9 GHz Quad + 1.3 GHz Quad) and 3 GB RAM
Android v4.3 (Jelly Bean) OS
13 MP Primary Camera with Auto Focus and BSI Sensor
2 MP Secondary Camera with Smart Stabilization and BSI Sensor
Full HD (1080p) Recording and Playback Support
Dual Shot / Dual Recording / Dual Video Call
S Pen Optimized Features
Click here for full specs
Price: Rs. 46,900
Sony Xperia Z Ultra
6.4-inch Full HD Display
2.2 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 Quad Core Processor
Android v4.2 (Jelly Bean) OS
16 GB Internal Memory and 2 GB RAM
8 MP Primary Camera with Auto Focus
2 MP Secondary Camera
Full HD Recording
Wi-Fi and WiFi Hotspot Support
Click here for full specs
Price: Rs. 44,990
Lenovo K900
5.5-inch LCD Capacitive Touchscreen
2 GHz Dual Core Processor
Android v4.2 (Jelly Bean) OS
13 MP Primary Camera
Full HD Recording
2 MP Secondary Camera
16 GB Internal Memory
Wi-Fi Enabled
Click here for full specs
Price: Rs. 26,299
Looking at the specs of all these devices, they are all equally powerful except for the Lenovo K900 which comes with a dual core processor. Moreover, the competition will be most crude against Samsung Galaxy Note 2 and 3. The Note 3 comes with a 3 GB RAM and so does the Gionee Elife E7. Moreover, the handset also comes with a perfect combination of a latest chipset and a best RAM and imaging technology as well. However, the Chinese company has made a little compromise on the battery front. They should have installed a little more powerful cell in the phone. The company has also enabled the 4G LTE support to the phone which makes it quite advanced. Thus this handset will definitely give a harsh time to most of the premium handsets that are currently selling in the market.


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SharePoint 2010 and Windows Azure Training Course
In this episode, learn about the new SharePoint and Azure Development Kit. The SharePoint and Azure Development Kit is a training course to help you learn different ways to integrate SharePoint and Windows Azure. SharePoint 2010 provides many ways to integrate with Windows Azure, from simple SQL Azure data-centric applications to complex workflows that leverage custom Azure services. There is great potential to integrate these two growing technologies. The kit contains eight modules including PowerPoint decks, hands-on labs, and source code showing how the SharePoint 2010 platform and Windows Azure platform can work together.
View Online: SharePoint 2010 and Windows Azure Training Course
Download: SharePoint 2010 and Windows Azure Training Kit
Learn More
Right click to download this episode
- High Quality WMV (121.2 MB)
- Mid Quality WMV (69.1 MB)
- High Quality MP4 (188.8 MB)
- Low Quality MP4 (26.3 MB)
More episodes in this series
Developing Windows Phone 7 Apps for SharePoint 2010
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The Discussion
Great stuff happening here! Thanks for tips.


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Water Treatment
The Water Treatment Facility, staffed 24 hours a day by state-certified operators, chemically treats raw water to make it safe to drink. Our treated drinking water and corrosion control consistently surpass state and federal standards for purity.
The facility is a silver partner in the Environmental Leadership Program, which recognizes drinking water facilities that go beyond compliance with state and federal regulations and are committed to continual environmental improvement.
In accordance with the City Environmental Policy (PDF 458KB), the water treatment facility is currently implementing an Environmental Management System to ensure we continue to meet and exceed our regulatory requirements, prevent pollution in all aspects of our operations and foster a culture of continuous improvement related to environmental performance. To learn more about our program or provide comments, contact V1RGRU1TQGZjZ292LmNvbQ==.
The Water Treatment Facility has a photovoltaic generation system on site that will produce approximately 100 kilowatts to help offset utility electric power needed to run the plant. The City purchases this solar power at a fixed rate from the system owner.
Water Treatment Process
The map and descriptions below explain each major section of the process.
- Presedimentation Basin
Before raw Poudre River water is piped to the treatment facility, it passes through the presedimentation basin. The basin screens out large debris and settles out sand and silt.
- Rapid Mix
The water is mixed at high speed while aluminum sulfate (alum) is added to chemically combine with contaminants and neutralize the electrical charges. This allows the impurities to begin coagulating, or forming small particles that can more easily be removed.
- Flocculation
The small contaminant particles formed in the rapid mix begin to collect and form larger particles, called floc, which are heavier than water. The water is mixed slowly at different speeds to assist floc formation, and a polymer is added to strengthen the floc.
- Sedimentation
The larger suspended particles (floc) formed in the flocculation basin settle to the bottom of the basin. Inclined plates are used to speed the settling. Clear water is skimmed off the top of the basin.
- Solids Drawoff
After settling to the basin's bottom, the floc is scraped into a pit and drawn off through a pipeline. The resulting material, residual solids, are spread out in a shallow pond, where they dry out for easier handling.
- Filters
The clarified water flows through layers of sand and anthracite coal to remove any remaining impurities.
- Clearwell
Is a small holding tank where the finishing process takes place, ensuring that the water is safe and healthy to drink. Chlorine is added as a disinfectant according to state and federal regulations. Fort Collins citizens mandated the addition of fluoride in the 1960s to enhance dental health. Lime and carbon dioxide are added to make the water less corrosive to home plumbing systems.
- Storage and Distribution
Once water is treated and ready for drinking, it is stored in underground reservoirs until needed. The reservoirs provide storage for 37 million gallons of water that can be used during high-use periods. Underground pipes carry the water from the storage reservoirs to your tap.


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There's a lot more planning and strategy involved in marketing a new brand than many entrepreneurs anticipate. Poor execution can derail even the best product.
To get some perspective, we spoke to Zach Beatty, Marketing Manager of Blue Fountain Media about what exactly is involved in the process, and how to successfully pull off a campaign.
Below is a slightly-edited transcript of our conversation:
What's the first thing a new brand should consider when it comes to marketing strategy?
The first step a new brand should take when developing their marketing strategy is making sure that they have a strong understanding of their target customer. Without this, it's easy to create messaging that is too broad or that doesn't address the customer's actual needs. This can be a challenge for new brands if they try to appeal to too large an audience from the start and end up not resonating with potential customers.
When should a young brand start marketing themselves? Is it ever too early to start?
It's never too early to start. Even in the early stages of bringing an idea to life, there are communities of potential customers that will not only become an early following, but also that will help spread the word about your brand.
What's the biggest marketing mistake a new brand can make?
One of the most common problems I see with new brands is lengthy or confusing messaging that alienates the potential customer. People tend to have short attention spans, so brands need to present a clear, concise and powerful message that draws their audience in.
Let's talk about digital marketing. This is one of the most popular ways brands get their names out there. Are brands that don't market online doomed to fail? Are there any exceptions to the rule?
Brands that don't market online aren't doomed to fail, but they are missing out on exposure to potential customers. For some brands a majority of business may come from referrals—but even in this case, potential clients will likely look the brand up online at some point. Ensuring that your online presence speaks well to the brand is important even for these types of brands.
Is there a difference in the strategies a brand employs when marketing online and when marketing offline?
Absolutely. The online and offline customer differ in part due to the mediums being used to reach them; so both messaging and value propositions may vary. Additionally, because of the different types of attribution and metrics available for on- and off-line advertising, new brands often approach the two mediums are often approached with different goals and success metrics.
What's your number one piece of advice to startups about creating brand awareness?
For a startup trying to create brand awareness, one of the most important things is to not lose focus on making a great product that address their customers needs. A great product will gather a loyal following, but if the offering doesn't address customer needs, efforts spent marketing it will not pay off.


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The Edmonton Oilers gave a better effort last night, losing 2-1 to the Los Angeles Kings and setting up shop solo 30th. They had some great looks early, but the Kings made the third their own and that's all she wrote. Balance: It's the real thing.
- Oilers in October 2014: 4-5-1
- Oilers in October 2015: 4-8-0
- Oilers in November 2014: 2-9-3
- Oilers in November 2015: 4-7-2
- Oilers in December 2014: 2-8-4
- Oilers in December 2015: 7-6-1
- Oilers in January 2015: 5-7-1
- Oilers in January 2016: 4-5-2
- Oilers in February 2015: 5-6-1
- Oilers in February 2016: 3-8-1
- Oilers after 62 in 2014-15: 18-34-10, 46 points (-65 GD)
- Oilers after 62 in 2015-16: 22-34-6, 50 points (-37 GD)
These Oilers are locked in now, the losses are piling up and February is officially the worst month of the year. Two more losses—it seems inevitable—and it will be the first 10-loss month in some time. In G63 one year ago, they lost 2-1 to the St. Louis Blues.
- Three: Connor McDavid
- Two: Taylor Hall
- One: Nail Yakupov, Anton Lander, Jujhar Khaira, Matt Hendricks, Benoit Pouiot, Darnell Nurse
- Sekera—Fayne were not as effective as they usually are to my eye, and despite Sekera's possession number he seemed plodding and slow. Fayne was also slow on the box out on the first goal, needs to be quicker there—although he was up against a world-class forward. Fayne made a dandy play later to save a goal, veteran defensemen have value even on nights they make mistakes.
- Davidson—Oesterle had a nice evening, especially the first two periods. They can both wheel, and Davidson was playing with authority last night. Man, what a story. I would like to see more of Oesterle as well, suspect Chiarelli's summer changes will bury him but you never know.
- Nurse—Clendening struggled, Nurse with the details (second goal he did everything right but cover the stick, which of course is a major item) and Clendening with the speed and quickness. Rookies. I think it is pretty certain Nurse stays up, but a trip to Bakersfield for a week might be the ticket. He is 'also in photo' a lot these days and he has now hit double digits in the minus column (sometimes that motivates teams).
Davidson rush (courtesy Ben)
Keep up the pressure, fellas. #EDMvsLAK pic.twitter.com/cxqhM4XRbm
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) February 26, 2016
- Anton Lander played almost 14 minutes at evens, I suspect someone wanted to have a look. I was impressed with the entire line, hope we see them again. Lander was solid if unspectacular, effective (all three men on the line had a high-danger scoring chance) and they sawed off the opposition.
- Mark Letestu and his veteran crew were less effective, although they did have their moments. This line is making too much to bring so little offense at 5×5.
- Leon Draisaitl and his group had a good night despite the possession numbers. Kassian scored the goal, but the entire line was effective on the tally. Had some very good looks later too, noticing many tweets and posts about his lack of conditioning—don't think that is it. I think he is injured, ribs in the Ottawa game and other maladies.
- Connor McDavid had some fantastic chances (I counted three, matching the War-On-Ice) early, but couldn't find the range. He is dangerous at all times, starting with the anthem. Doughty is an effective defenseman against everyone, Oilers need Leon to punish opposition more, so the kid can grab some clean air.
- Khaira—Yakupov formed a solid line with Anton Lander, and at even strength Khaira ranked No. 5 in TOI among wingers, Yakupov No. 4. Someone was getting showcased in my opinion. Yakupov was aggressive, had the puck on his stick a lot and was tough to handle. Khaira has some nice things, including an ability to calm play and re-set, something this forward group needs badly. A strong effort from the rookie.
- Korpikoski—Hendricks also faced the lesser opposition, but didn't get as much done. I don't like this line, save Henricks.
- Hall—Kassian had some good-to-great moments, have to say they seem to work well together. Kassian is the most skilled 6.03, 217 winger employed by the Oilers in a long time. Hall picked up an assist and drove to the net on many sorties, couldn't cash. Made a terrible pass in the third period, five feet too strong, and it was noticed by everyone. That tells you how good he is. Kassian looked good, capable, on this line.
- Pouliot—Eberle seemed to have a lot of try, but like McDavid nothing rhymed. Eberle battled for the puck very well in at least one instance, but Pouliot appeared on the wrong side of things often (he is not that kind of player, so it stands out when he is having an off night). Fell some, and seemed to have a hard time locating the puck (and Sekera was Mr. Magoo out there, Jesus), while also missing passes or not getting to loose pucks. Motor skills looked off.
Dreger: "The Boston #Bruins are an example of a team I'm told has some interest" in Schultz. #Oilers
— Chris Nichols (@NicholsOnHockey) February 26, 2016
I am not certain the Bruins would trade for Schultz (why not wait until the Oilers don't qualify him?), but the insiders are all saying there is a market. The baseball trade deadline may have changed since I followed the sport closely, but you would never trade for a poor hitter at the deadline. I remain convinced Mark Fayne is a far better trade option for a contender.
Re, Purcell: CHI, DAL, FLA, LA were are circling. Have to assume CHI is out. We'll see where it goes
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) February 26, 2016
Someone is going to get a good player, and the Oilers may get something interesting back, as well. You may recall I had a look at all 30 teams (and all levels of prospects) earlier in the month, here are the possibles I found for each team:
- Dallas Stars: L Brendan Ranford. Bill is his uncle, Brendan is a solid AHL scorer looking for an NHL opportunity; R Brett Ritchie. Injuries have impacted the young PF prospect (he is 6.03, 220 and 22), so he could shake loose now or in the summer; L Curtis McKenzie. Another power forward, he is a little older (24, 6.02 205) and has some NHL experience. D Niklas Hansson. A raw talent when drafted, he is a talented offensive defender with all kinds of useful tools. He is 21, has 21 points in 37 SHL games.
- Florida Panthers: R Rocco Grimaldi. Very small forward who is something of a buzzsaw, Grimaldi is in year two of his pro career and is running in place a little; F Brandon Pirri was mentioned by Elliotte Friedman in his recent 30 thoughts, he is an interesting offensive player; D Ian McCoshen. He is a very nice prospect, combining size, speed and two-way ability. He has been very consistent in college. C Jayce Hawryluk. A quality offensive center who also plays a strong game without the puck. He is 5.10, 197 but plays a more complete game than a lot of the smaller forwards mentioned here.
- Los Angeles Kings: L Michael Mersch. Scored goals from the moment he arrived in pro hockey, from bad angles and on good shots; R Justin Auger. I have no idea if he is a real prospect, but at 6.07, 229 (and 21) he can score a little; R Valentin Zykov. A new pro who has some promise (he was part of that crazy deal involving Oilers picks), and has shown reasonably well as an AHL rookie; D Erik Cernak. Big defender, reports have him as a wrecking crew who can move. L Austin Wagner is a speedy winger who can score, having a nice year with the Regina Pats.
Frank Seravalli of TSN set trade values for various rentals, has Purcell (2nd) and Schultz (3rd) covered in this article. Those assessments match mine, here is my list (I put Gryba back on the list, but he is injured and his being dealt seems doubtful):
- RW Teddy Purcell—He is gone, suspect we will see a second-round pick (or a legit prospect).
- F Matt Hendricks—Chiarelli is unlikely to trade Hendricks, but there is always a chance an offer changes his mind. I recall someone mentioning there was significant interest last deadline. Second-round pick.
- D Mark Fayne—A bit tricky, for two reasons. He is helping now, so the Oilers could use him for the first 60 games next year and shop him at the deadline. Call it righty blue insurance. Return? Second-round pick if the Oilers retain salary (defensemen are always worth more at the deadline).
- D Justin Schultz—He is gone if they can find a taker. Third-round pick.
- D Eric Gryba—I think they will sign him unless a team offers up full value (and his being injured is a major development). He should fetch a fourth-round selection, about what he cost the Oilers.
- L Lauri Korpikoski—Perhaps Chiarelli can save Todd McLellan from himself. If he can trade Korpikoski, Chiarelli is a mad genius. Fifth-round pick obo.
- C Anton Lander—He played a lot last night, after not playing much at all for a long time. Has to be a showcase. Sixth-round pick.
This might be the saddest thing I've read all week. #Oilers pic.twitter.com/vevXb9hK7j
— Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) February 26, 2016
Yes. It has been a difficult time for everyone, including the players, management and the fans. Organizations follow the man at the top, and since he arrived as owner Daryl Katz has not proven to be a fantastic franchise owner. As bad as the Pocklington threats and ridiculous mutt moves like selling Gretzky were, at least they were winning. I don't give a rat's ass about his politics, his personal life, how he earns his money or what kind of car he drives. I do worry that Daryl Katz interferes in the hockey side of the business, and if he is still doing it, whether on his own or via his lieutenants, this organization is doomed to failure. And that I do not forgive.
A busy show, as you might expect with the trade deadline just around the corner. Scheduled to appear, beginning at 10 this morning, TSN1260:
- Steve Lansky, Big Mouth Sports. The importance of getting something out of the last 20 games of the season, and producing a live television event like the trade deadline—how much is the crazy?
- Antony Bent, FC Edmonton. Eddies made another signing and are well into their training. The EPL is back in action and the top of the table features some unusual teams.
- Gerry Moddejonge, Edmonton Sun. The Eskimos signed the good Getzlaf, and attention will soon turn to the draft.
- Ryan Batty, Copper & Blue. I haven't had him on in forever, and that is my bad. We will talk trade deadline, Grateful Dead and this article by Paul Freeman.
10-1260 text, @Lowetide on twitter.
My sources confirm Teddy Purcell was told he will be a healthy scratch vs Anaheim today due to imminent trade. #tradedeadline
— Mike Commodore (@commie22) February 26, 2016
Also, Ryan Rishaug telling us to stay by the phones.


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Table Tennis
What is Table Tennis?
From beginner to pro, competitive to recreational, table tennis is an social sport suitable for all ages and abilities. To win (and hopefully build up a first-class victory dance), you need to score 11 points before your opponent – either by getting them to miss the ball, hit the ball but miss the table, or allow it to bounce more than once on their side of the net. Unsurprisingly, it's a lot like tennis – on a table. You can hire a table at leisure centres or join an organised session, but if you're unable to make it to your local gym or leisure centre, transform any table into a table tennis table, have fun and reap the benefits of improved coordination.
What are the benefits?
- Improved balance and agility (very important when travelling in London)
- Offers a social outlet
- Easy on your joints
- Lifelong sport
What will I need?
Normal sportswear is suitable for both indoor and outdoor table tennis. Organisers may specify what you wear and usually provide all necessary equipment. If you choose to play at your leisure, you will need a table, bats, a net and a ball which can be found in sport shops.
Upcoming Table Tennis sessions in London
There are currently no 'sport' sessions listed on Get Active London


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As one might expect, the Norse ritual Yule is typically celebrated in late December. Many of the modern-day traditions during this time of year have pagan roots, so many groves use Yule logs, exchange gifts, hang evergreens, etc. It is also common for groves to have Norse drinking rites called symbels during this time, as well as to make oaths.
Norse Yule Rituals
Ár nDraíocht Féin: A Druid Fellowship, Inc.
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Family Literacy, Math, and Science ToolKits have been developed by Seattle Public Schools to assist families in helping with their children's learning at home and at school. These books are full of activities that you can do with your children in the summer and throughout the school year, specific to each child's grade and developmental level.
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BRUSSELS (Reuters) - A return to good times for Europe's economy may be sapping will to reform the euro zone before talks even start, so investors will be watching closely next Friday when EU leaders discuss how to deepen cooperation to protect against any return to crisis.
"In the absence of market pressure, the collective political will to make further progress has weakened," European Council President Donald Tusk cautioned in a letter, seen by Reuters, that invites the 27 leaders to the Dec. 15 euro summit.
The euro zone economy is set to grow at its fastest pace in a decade and unemployment is at eight-year lows. Despite the economic success, the bloc faces strong anti-EU sentiment among voters, expressed in Britain's decision to leave in 2019.
Weakened by Britain's departure, the EU also has to face the rising economic power of China, increased global protectionism, migration challenges and tensions with Russia. The best response to these risks is increased EU unity, top EU officials say.
The European Commission proposed on Wednesday ideas for deeper integration of the 19 countries that share the euro that will feed into the leaders' discussions next week.
But it was also careful to leave the door open for eight non-euro countries to join all the initiatives to help unite the broader European Union around the single currency, which all except Denmark — and Britain — are obligated to adopt one day.
But while all the 27 governments that will remain in the EU agree a stable and shock-resilient euro zone is in everybody's interest, they differ on what needs to be done and how quickly.
Top EU officials in Brussels have underlined that it is time to "fix the roof is when the sun is shining", calling on leaders to take advantage of the fastest economic growth and a less busy election agenda across the bloc to commit to reforms.
But Jeroen Dijsselbloem, the outgoing chairman of euro zone finance ministers who will do most of the work on euro zone reform before leaders take final decisions in June 2018, warned last week of growing complacency.
"Things are going so well, the banks are better, the economy is better, I see too many politicians relaxing and really we need to do more work," he said.
The 27 EU leaders will be asked next Friday to give their finance ministers the go-ahead to work on the various reform ideas, which include setting up a euro zone fiscal capacity and creating the post of a European minister of economy and finance.
Other reform topics include a simplification of the EU's fiscal rules and turning the euro zone bailout fund into a European Monetary Fund, which would also be a financial backstop to a bank resolution fund.
Finally the leaders will be asked to say how they would like to approach the gradual introduction of a European Deposit Insurance Scheme that would boost the euro zone banking sector.
Except for mandating further work on the various reforms and spelling out which ones should have priority, the leaders will not take any decisions next week, not least because of sharply differing views on most of the topics and the lack of a mandated government in the bloc's biggest member Germany.
Writing By Jan Strupczewski; Editing by Alastair Macdonald and Toby Chopra


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This slimy, sticky, worm bears a striking resemblance to humanoid entrails. Its lengthy body looks like a lumpy, veined, gray tube approximately 10 feet long, but no thicker than a sword handle. It has no eyes, and its large, round mouth resembles the suckered mouth of a leech.
Gutslug CR 3
N Medium aberration
Init +4 Senses blindsight 30 ft.; Perception +7
AC 17, touch 14, flat-footed 13 (+4 Dex, +3 natural)
hp 19 (3d8+6)
Fort +3; Ref +5; Will +3
Vulnerabilities gutslug vulnerabilities
Speed 20 ft., fly 50 ft. (perfect)
Melee type +6 (1d6+2 plus grab plus blood drain)
Space 5 ft. (coiled); Reach 5 ft.
Special Attacks blood drain (1d4 Con), sneak attack (2d6)
Str 14, Dex 19, Con 14, Int 2, Wis 11, Cha 3
Base Atk +2; CMB +4 (+8 grapple); CMD 18
Feats Skill Focus (Perception), Weapon Finesse
Skills Fly +12, Perception +7, Stealth +9; Racial Modifiers +8 Fly
Blood Drain (Ex)
A gutslug that grapples a foe drains blood. This deals 1d4 points of Constitution drain each round the grapple is maintained. Once a gutslug has drained 8 points, it detaches and flies or slithers away to digest its meal.
Vulnerabilities (Ex)
Gutslugs are vulnerable to salt. A pint of salt deals 1d4 points of damage to a gutslug for 1d2 rounds and causes it to lose its racial bonus to grapple checks. A pint of alcohol poured or thrown on a gutslug deals no damage but causes it to lose its racial bonus to grapple checks.
Environment underground
Organization solitary or gang (2–5)
Treasure none
These hideous creatures have many names—entrail worms, intestine crawlers, viscera worms, and several others. The most common name assigned to these leech-like parasites is gutslug.
Gutslugs are most often found in underground caverns, though some do lair above ground. Aboveground gutslugs build their nests in forested areas, often near lakes or rivers. They are never encountered in warm or cold regions as they detest both extremes. They are nocturnal hunters and generally avoid the sunlight if possible. (Sunlight does not damage them, they just don't like it.) Subterranean gutslugs nest in crevasses, or in small caves or natural caverns, sometimes near a source of water. The lair is coated with a thick layer of slimy and sticky mucus (regurgitated by the gutslug). This mucus has a strong acidic stench and is easily detected at ranges of 30 feet or less. At irregular intervals (especially after feeding), the body of a gutslug widens to accommodate a bag-like stomach.
When a warm-blooded living creature is detected, a gutslug flies or crawls directly toward it, attacking and biting almost mindlessly.
Gutslug from the Tome of Horrors Complete, Copyright 2011, Necromancer Games, Inc., published and distributed by Frog God Games; Author Erica Balsley.


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This is just surreal: the Associated Press has put together a must read profile of all the people who the mortgage servicing industry has been scrambling to get together since 2007. The outcome, and stereotypes, are stunning: "In an effort to rush through thousands of home foreclosures since 2007, financial institutions and their mortgage servicing departments hired hair stylists, Walmart floor workers and people who had worked on assembly lines and installed them in "foreclosure expert" jobs with no formal training, a Florida lawyer says." And it gets even scarier - these "experts" pretty much all confirm they participated in fraud, either willingly or unwillingly: "In depositions released Tuesday, many of those workers testified that they barely knew what a mortgage was. Some couldn't define the word "affidavit." Others didn't know what a complaint was, or even what was meant by personal property. Most troubling, several said they knew they were lying when they signed the foreclosure affidavits and that they agreed with the defense lawyers' accusations about document fraud." And here is punchline: " In what is perhaps a sign of things to come, a Simi Valley, Calif., couple and their nine children broke into their foreclosed home over the weekend and moved back in, according to television station KABC of Simi Valley. The family was evicted from their Spanish-style two-story in July. The home has been sold, and the new owner was due to move in soon." And this is a problem that will go away in a few months?
"The mortgage servicers hired people who would never question authority," said Peter Ticktin, a Deerfield Beach, Fla., lawyer who is defending 3,000 homeowners in foreclosure cases. As part of his work, Ticktin gathered 150 depositions from bank employees who say they signed foreclosure affidavits without reviewing the documents or ever laying eyes on them -- earning them the name "robo-signers."
The deposed employees worked for the mortgage service divisions of banks such as Bank of America and JP Morgan Chase, as well as for mortgage servicers like Litton Loan Servicing, a division of Goldman Sachs.
Ticktin said he would make the testimony available to state and federal agencies that are investigating financial institutions for allegations of possible mortgage fraud. This comes on the eve of an expected announcement Wednesday from 40 state attorneys general that they will launch a collective probe into the mortgage industry.
"This was an industrywide scheme designed to defraud homeowners," Ticktin said.
The depositions paint a surreal picture of foreclosure experts who didn't understand even the most elementary aspects of the mortgage or foreclosure process -- even though they were entrusted as the records custodians of homeowners' loans. In one deposition taken in Houston, a foreclosure supervisor with Litton Loan couldn't define basic terms like promissory note, mortgagee, lien, receiver, jurisdiction, circuit court, plaintiff's assignor or defendant. She testified that she didn't know why a spouse might claim interest in a property, what the required conditions were for a bank to foreclose or who the holder of the mortgage note was. "I don't know the ins and outs of the loan, I just sign documents," she said at one point.
Until now, only a handful of depositions from robo-signers have come to light. But the sheer volume of the new depositions will make it more difficult for financial institutions to argue that robo-signing was an aberrant practice in a handful of rogue back offices.
Judges are unlikely to look favorably on a bank that claims paperwork flaws don't matter because the borrower was in default on the loan, said Kendall Coffey, a former Miami U.S. attorney and author of the book "Foreclosures."
"There has to be a cornerstone of integrity to the process," Coffey said.
Unfortunately, there isn't. And the distant thunder in WFC and BAC CDS is just the beginning. And here is the confirmation of the total clusterfuck about to envelop the nation:
Meanwhile, the public outrage continues to mount. In what is perhaps a sign of things to come, a Simi Valley, Calif., couple and their nine children broke into their foreclosed home over the weekend and moved back in, according to television station KABC of Simi Valley. The couple, Jim and Danielle Earl, say they were working with the bank to catch up on payments until they discovered a $25,000 difference between what they owed and what the bank said they owed. The family was evicted from their Spanish-style two-story in July. The home has been sold, and the new owner was due to move in soon.
Read the full unbelieveable piece here.
h/t Ian