text:
How a "landscape" approach could be the key to securing the Sahel – Sebastiaan Soeters
Conflict sensitivity to the development and climate change approaches in the Sahel will be determine the stability of this vast and complex region. One critical but often excluded group, argues Dr Sebastiaan Soeters, are Sahelian pastoralists, without whom the current approaches to development will be compromised. Dr Soeters presents findings from his research on how a "landscape" approach could be the key to securing the Sahel as part of the DFID-funded, NWO-WOTRO managed Conflict and Cooperation in the Management in Climate Change programme (CCMCC).
Decision-makers in London, The Hague and Paris, amongst others, are clamoring to exert some control over the Sahel. Fears about immigration and radicalisation seem to have moved this previously-remote part of the world onto Europe's doorstep. The Mediterranean Sea and Sahara Desert – in the past regarded as impenetrable buffers against migration from West Africa – suddenly appear trivial and European policymakers recognise that more will need to be done.
The current push to prioritise development for security takes place as climate discourses surge to the centre of development policy debates. Furthermore, pastoralism, as a key feature of Sahelian landscapes, is re-emerging as a focus of European thinking about the Sahel. Exactly how pastoral livelihoods fit into new Sahelian development frameworks will largely determine the level of success in terms of fostering a meaningful stability in the Sahel.
There is significant complexity involved in integrating pastoralism into broader development frameworks, both for national governments, as well as donors. Pastoral livelihoods in the Sahel, as elsewhere, have traditionally been supported by practitioners and policymakers in a distinct and isolated 'pastoralism silo'. These efforts have been driven largely by livestock departments within government structures as well as amongst donors.
In both instances these departments are staffed overwhelmingly by veterinarians, who as matter of skillset, have paid little attention to broader development policy concerns. For instance, a $248 Million project supporting pastoralism in six Sahelian countries, funded by the World Bank, aims primarily to increase the productivity of pastoral systems by improving access to essential services (veterinary services, market access etc.) for two million pastoralists. However, the programme seems to have taken no consideration of the impacts which increasing livestock numbers might have on sedentary, crop-based, farming livelihoods in targeted areas.
A much larger policy arena focusing on crop-based agricultural developments and strengthening the resilience of farmers in the Sahel, equally, pays precious little attention to pastoral dynamics within targeted landscapes. The Ghana Commercial Agricultural Project (GCAP), also funded largely by the World Bank and USAID, recently earmarked 20k hectares of 'unused' land along the Nasia river in northern Ghana's semi-arid zone, for expanding rice farming. This area, the Nasia-Nabogo Valley, also happens, however, to be a hotspot for farmer-pastoralist conflict in Ghana as competition for access to the very same river intensifies.
The Towards Inclusive Climate Change Interventions (TICCI), funded by DFID, through the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO), set out broadly to situate pastoral dynamics within larger agricultural development and climate change policy frameworks in West Africa and, in so doing, attempted to break down isolated silos dealing with crop-based agricultural development on the one hand, and pastoral dynamics on the other.
Two case studies from the TICCI project in Ghana are particularly illuminating in terms of demonstrating the impacts of siloed development thinking on farmer-pastoral relations. One is a dry-season farming initiative implemented on a low-lying flood-plain in Ghana's Upper East Region, by a local NGO, whilst the other is a large scale, private sector, in-growers irrigation scheme in Ghana's Northern Region.
In each we see the same dynamic; the project is successful in engaging farmers in dry-season farming, increasingly and diversifying household income streams, and reducing exposure to increasingly unreliable rainfall. However, as household incomes rise (largely as result of the success of project), farmers invest in livestock, and as the number of heads of livetsock increases, ethnic-Fulani pastoralists in search of work as contract herders, are drawn into the landscape, many of whom also bring their own livestock. The landscape comes to be congested from two sides; the area under cultivation increases (as too does the length of the crop calendar) and, the number of livestock increases which, as a result, increases the frequency of conflicts between farmers and pastoralists.
These dynamics at scale, even in the most watered down version, in which 'unused' bushland (often used as pasture by pastoralists) is converted to cropland, has profound implications for the development in, and the security of, the Sahelian belt. Coupled with population growth, agricultural development and climate policy frameworks have initiated the mass conversion of bushland to cropland.
In Mali, land identified as cropland expanded at an average of 1365 km2 per year between 1975 and 2013. In Burkina Faso, 1720km2 of bushland has been converted to cropland on a yearly basis over the same period, whilst in Nigeria, that number is a massive 4912 km2 per year. Incidentally, Nigeria is also a country which has seen a significant escalation of farmer-pastoral conflicts.
Whilst much of this is undeniably driven by population growth, certainly, national and donor-driven agricultural development efforts, with an increasingly strong climate orientation, has made a significant contribution to this expansion.
The expansion of the agricultural frontier in the Sahel has, in turn, resulted in a, by equal measure, reduction in the availability of pasture. Whilst the drivers of farmer-pastoral conflict are diverse, complex, often localised, and poorly understood, at its heart, it is the manifestation of a competition over resources, and it is unrealistic, and perhaps irresponsible, decouple the increases in the intensity and frequency of farmer-pastoral conflicts across West Africa, from the transformation of bushland to cropland, and/or the decreasing ease of access to resources upon which for pastoral production systems fundamentally depend.
The current siloed development trajectories in the Sahel, as they gather speed following renewed strategic interests in the Sahel, are thoroughly unsustainable in terms of relations between sedentary farming and pastoralists dependent upon mobility. Localised conflicts between farmers and pastoralists potentially lock-in the marginalisation of pastoral societies, with implications for long-term security in the Sahel more broadly.
Certainly, to avoid inadvertently worsening the security situation in this way, policy frameworks (both of national governments and donor) require a new point of departure for thinking about agricultural development and resilience in West African dryland areas. This new point of departure should focus on multiple resource users within targeted dryland landscapes, and on how access to natural resources is negotiated between those multiple-users.
Such a view would account for both farmers and pastoralists, but also for fisherfolk, landless youth who supplement protein intake through hunting in bushland and forests, and women, whose livelihoods may depend upon foraging amongst parkland trees. This new point of departure would require the tearing down of silos which currently define development and resilience thinking in the Sahel, marking an end of projects which seek to support either farmers or pastoralists, and instead, support landscapes and all those who depended upon it.
Sebastiaan Soeters was part of CCMCC's "Towards more inclusive, cooperative and participative climate change interventions in Kenya, Ghana and Burkina Faso" project. More information on the programme's key findings and case studies related to pastoralists can be found at www.nwo.nl/ccmcc


text:
Your business is built on a great idea. We make sure it's also built for immediate success.
Your business is built on a great idea. We make sure it's also built for immediate success.
Businesses today have four key constituents: employees, customers, business partners, and devices, which are constantly interconnected through technology. Not only has this ecosystem expanded, but it has also become considerably more complex and dynamic. Fail to engage the members of this ecosystem effectively, and they can switch brands, service providers, employers more easily than ever.
The leaders of tomorrow will be those that engage key constituents in a powerful, differentiated way. Powerful engagement is the result of efficient interactions that deliver accurate, timely information through a customer's preferred channel and that foster user trust in in the security and use of the data. That's where we come in.
At West Monroe, we build solutions that harness the power of technology to change the way people work, collaborate, and interact, leveraging today's best technology capabilities that enable you to do two things very well: build effective interfaces that deliver a compelling experience and establish analytics and reporting capabilities that allow you to understand engagement. This allows you to adjust engagement strategies in tune with the accelerating pace of your market.
By equipping your organization to connect people with the information they need and want, we help you create relevancy, optimal experiences, and rich and intelligent engagement that makes it easy for people to do business with your organization and difficult to leave. That translates to success and brand value.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Each state has its own set of laws concerning child custody. In most cases, these laws are similar across the nation, which can be a comfort to divorcing parents. Despite the similarities, it is important for you to learn how the process works in whichever state you live in. This blog post contains a few important facts about child custody in the state of Texas.
Best practices of a good Texas divorce lawyer
It is a given that if you are getting a divorce, then you want a good and effective attorney on your side. Unfortunately, it is all too easy to find negative articles across the internet focusing on the worst practices of a divorce attorney. This is unfortunate for those getting divorced as it can discourage them from making the right decisions during this difficult time. It is just as unfortunate for effective divorce lawyers who may suffer from these articles as well.
Adoption: A joyous area of the family law field
In most cases, when people contemplate a visit to a family law attorney, they feel a sense of dread or negativity. It is perfectly natural response because many times these attorney visits occur to prepare for a divorce or to talk about child custody and support issues. However, there are some occasions when visiting a family law attorney can make you feel happy. Preparing to adopt a stepchild is one such occasion.
Why should the kids have to bounce from house to house?
In a divorce, two of the biggest considerations are what to do with the children and what to do with the family home. The traditional solution looks something like this: One parent stays in the house and the other moves out. The children then bounce back and forth between mom's place and dad's place.
Smart and civil ways to deal with missed holiday parenting time
We begin this post by wishing that our readers had a happy and memorable Fourth of July weekend. The holiday weekend ended with a bang this year on a Tuesday, which meant that many divorced and separated parents were able to split the holiday given that two days occurred during the normal work week.


text:
ACE Responds to Report About Decline in Laundry Packet Exposures
Posted June 10, 2019
Washington, DC – The Alliance for Consumer Education (ACE) issued the following response to a recent report from the journal Pediatrics which showed that exposure to liquid laundry detergent packets among children under the age of six has decreased since 2015.
"Accident rates due to laundry packet exposure among children under six have declined 53 percent. This decrease is the result of manufacturer led changes," said Beth Ludwick, Executive Director of ACE. "Additionally, hospital admission rates due to laundry packet exposure for children under six years old have declined by more than 50 percent."
In 2015, a broad coalition of manufacturers, consumer groups and regulatory bodies came together to develop packaging and labeling changes that focused on safe use and storage of laundry detergent packets. The resulting product safety standards were approved by ASTM International, the highly respected standards-setting body.
Government bodies, NGOs, non-profits and industry groups, like The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Prevent Childhood Injury, Safe Kids Worldwide and the American Cleaning Institute's (ACI) Packets Up campaign, all share educational information about liquid laundry detergent packets, laundry safety and how to prevent ingestions.
"This educational video from Safe Kids Worldwide is just one example of how groups are working together to build public awareness and prevent injury," said Ludwick.
The Alliance for Consumer Education (ACE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation founded in 2000. ACE works to educate consumers about the correct use, storage and disposal of household and commercial products. ACE's core program areas are Consumer Care, Health & Wellbeing and Inhalant Abuse Prevention. ACE is affiliated with the Household & Commercial Products Association (HCPA).


text:
OPPOSITION MPs have delayed the implementation of the repossession legislation until the end of January. The proposal, which was submitted by the Movement for Social Democracy (EDEK), passed by 39 votes to 19.
Communist party AKEL had earlier proposed that the legislation should be suspended until the end of June, but this was rejected by MPs.
Reacting to the decision Finance Minister Harris Georgiades had some harsh words to say in a statement. "Today's decision by parliament critically undermines our country's credibility," adding that "Suspending enforcement of legislation, which is not enforced anyway, is an unnecessary and unjustified act. It simply sends the message that we have not, unfortunately, rid ourselves of the mentality and behaviour that cost us so dearly."
The suspension comes just a few days after the disbursement of the €350 million tranche of the bailout loan; the foreclosures law was a requirement for its release.
The disbursement of an additional €86 million from the IMF has yet to be confirmed. A meeting of the IMF board to decide whether to release the money is scheduled for tomorrow. But according to a government source, the subject may not be discussed.
The international lenders had informed Cypriot authorities before today's decision that the suspension of the legislation could jeopardize the planned return of the Troika for the sixth assessment.
The Troika planned to visit Cyprus again on 27th January.
Readers' comments
Comments on this article are no longer being accepted.
@ Steve R: "….ten years to obtain Title…"
I'm hoping to get mine next year, which will make it a quarter-century :)
Finance Minister Harris Georgiades, no less:
"Today's decision by parliament critically undermines our country's credibility,â€Â
: "Suspending enforcement of legislation, WHICH IS NOT ENFORCED ANYWAY, is an unnecessary and unjustified act. It simply sends the message that we have not, unfortunately, rid ourselves of the mentality and behaviour that cost us so dearly.â€Â
ABSOLUTELY. True colours, mainly Yellow, being shown here!
What AKEL and their chums have outrageously and shamelessly done is show the rest of Europe and probably beyond!, the truly cynical underpinnings of Cypriot culture. Take the Troika money and then stick the proverbial 'two fingers' up to all and sundry. How's that for Christmas Spirit?? Future Goodwill? These actions truly Beggar Belief.
And wasn't it AKEL, well Christofides, who negotiated the €5bn Loan from Russia? In today's vastly changed Russian environment Mr. Putin, never apparently the ex Cyprus President's 'best friend', may already be checking whether there are grounds for demanding early Repayment!
It seems to me that our, dare I say childish/moronic representatives are playing 'chicken' with the troika. Just saying and promising barely enough to ensure the next payment is agreed whilst all the time knowing that once release of funds is agreed they will repeal or suspend qualifying legislation proposals.
Now if the troika are only interested in burdening the country with unsustainable debt then the charade will go on, if they are serious in helping government reach a point of self sustainability and financial good health then they will stop all aid until conditions are met. It is painfully obvious to all the world that has any interest remaining that we are all but a lost cause and not to be trusted. Thankfully the Finance Minister together with the Auditor-General have at least realised that, some 54 others to go and educate now.
Assuming there was any vestige of credibility left to undermine, Harris Georgiades has rightly confirmed that Cyprus has still not rid itself of the mentality and behaviour that resulted in the bailout becoming necessary in the first place.
Playing fast and loose with the Troika by suspending compliance with its MoU requirements once the €350 million tranche has been released, reveals the fundamental dishonesty that pervades virtually every aspect of government and commerce in Cyprus.
However, despite all the shenanigans of this parliament and its obvious contempt for the Troika and the MoU, Cyprus knows it can never be allowed to exit the euro-zone and thus ruin the United States of Europe dream so beloved of the European Union.
They are artists in delaying tactics. That is probably why it takes 10 years to obtain your title deeds
The views expressed in readers' comments are not necessarily shared by the Cyprus Property News.


text:
View all Recent News
The Open Innovation in Mining Program EXPANDE invites you to prequalify for a new Challenge of the company CODELCO "Characterization of drawpoints in underground mining".
To participate, follow this link: https://fch.brightidea.com/COD022019CaracterizacinpuntosdeextraccinenMS, register and upload the requested information in the enclosed sheet until August 26, 2019, 15:00 hrs (UTC/GMT -4 hrs).
The prequalification notice for the companies that fulfill the technical requirements of the Challenge will take place in September 9, 2019.
The status of your proposal can be viewed in the Challenge page https://fch.brightidea.com/COD022019CaracterizacinpuntosdeextraccinenMS,"Proposals" section.
Characterization of drawpoints in underground mining PDF
Share This Page


text:
The search is over: welcome to your turn-key Tamarak two storey! This bright and spacious home offers a beautiful kitchen with a large granite island and eat-in bar, corner pantry, stainless appliances including a gas oven, and ample storage. Open to the dining space and its patio doors, you can head outside during the warmer months to BBQ and eat on the deck! The open layout, which includes 9ft ceilings and a skylight, makes the home feel light and airy. Enjoy relaxing or entertaining in the main floor living room, which offers a gas fireplace. The main floor also boasts convenient laundry and a tasteful 2-pce bath as well as a den/office space. Upstairs you'll find the spacious master with spa-like ensuite, two good-sized bedrooms, a 3-pce bath, and a massive bonus room! The basement is fully-finished with a family room, bedroom and 4-pce bath—great for teens or guests! All this plus A/C, a heated garage, and fully-fenced yard! A MUST SEE!
Residential Detached Single Family
Carpet, Hardwood, Non-Ceramic Tile
Dishwasher-Built-In, Dryer, Garage Opener, Hood Fan, Microwave Hood Cover, Refrigerator, Stove-Gas, Washer, Window Coverings, Garage heater
Fenced, Playground Nearby, Public Transportation, Schools, Shopping Nearby
Listing information last updated on April 8th, 2020 at 4:31am MDT.


text:
Recently, most financial technology websites are reporting that consumers have reportedly lost interest in the traditional banking system, this is due to the enormous benefits Fintech startup offers it consumers by making life more comfortable through the use of digital technologies.
Also, new financial technology index shows that the provision of seamless financial services online is mainly responsible for the considerable success of Financial Technology and this is possible with the introduction of new technologies which are making investing, managing and spending easier.
Even with these developments, there are key technology trends which will positively affect the Fintech Industry in the coming years, and they include:
Blockchain: Financial Technology ratings shows that distributed ledger technology or blockchain can be relied on to bring transparency to a world filled with threats of fraud and uncertainty. A significant number of financial players are joining hands in a consortium to rebuild infrastructures based on this new technology to replace the incompatible and legacy systems. From cross-border payments to trade finance platforms and digital identification, removing these inefficiencies caused by lack of transparency is a primary reason for implementing this new technology. The blockchain is streamlining the exchange of value all across ecosystems by establishing innovative networks and eliminating these intermediaries in business processes.
Human Digital Interfaces: Most of us cannot go a day without using any of our digital devices, so it is a conventional seeing mobile technology becoming an integrated part of our lives. We are already using our voices to make commands rather than typing or tapping on our touchscreen. The biometric finger is taking over passwords while retina, eye check have become part of security checks. Our emotional state is now being gauged on our interaction with our devices by technology as you can trigger action through gestures. In the coming years, it is expected that these interfaces will be perfected.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Artificial intelligence and machine learning have become a discussion which has been dominating the tech world for many years. IBM refers to it as cognitive computing, and this emphasizes that artificial intelligence should not replace human knowledge but augment it. Most Financial Technology websites state that artificial intelligence in finance is helping to detect and fight fraud before human recognizes it. Several compliance regulations are being fed into Artifical Intelligence like IBM Watson to help businesses stay on top of the dynamic world. Chatbots built with AI can help agents address and satisfy customer questions or problems, with no human power. Similarly, in wealth management, Artificial Intelligence is assisting with stress testing in market scenario and to help in removing market biases from decisions to make during investments.
APIs: Creating applications with the aid of APIs is now seen as the best way to address the business and economic challenges affecting the financial industry. Fintech startups are taking over the landscape through the creation of mobile applications that have challenged and surpassed the banking industry. Through the use of APIs, these dynamic and small businesses can innovate with speed and agility that even the more significant and more prominent sectors are unable to duplicate. Banks are now investing heavily in creating mobile applications while taking part in developer sandboxes and API economy. Due to the number of data banks have collected over the years, they are likely to regain dominance in this area.
Quantum Computing: Quantum Computing enables a computer to store an enormous amount of information with little energy required. A traditional computer system uses bits which are either in0's or 1's while Quantum computing uses qubits. Quantum Computing will not replace the computer system but will address and solve computational problems. In addition to providing solutions to the problematic computational issues such as maximizing the investment returns, the accuracy to be achieved in AI or machine learning should be considered.
Finally, new Fintech ratings show that the Fintech industry will remain at the forefront of innovation for many years. Technology developments that will take years to design and execute by big financial institutions are going to the real world in little time due to Fintech Startup. While the security risks remain unchanged, we, the consumers who are seeing the benefit and functionality in our banking and financial experiences are the winners.
Recently, most financial technology websites are reporting that consumers have reportedly lost interest in the traditional banking system, this is due to the enormous benefits Fintech startup offers it consumers by making life more comfortable through the use of digital technologies.


text:
Whether you are looking to recruit or find your next position, review our list of
recruiters and register with them.
Alternatively, use our CV Broadcast service
to register with multiple recruiters by completing one form.
Choose a letter » | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | 0-9 |
UK Wide, International - Global's specialist team includes former teaching professionals who understand how to meet and exceed the needs and requirements of UK schools, international schools and overseas teachers.
International - Specialises in the placement of high quality nannies, governesses, tutors and English teachers to mainly high profile clientèle who demand the very best levels of service.
UK Wide, International - Specialises in the placement of nannies, maternity nurses and mother's help.
arts, admin, care, education,
finance, health, housing, HR, IT,
revenue, social work, transport jobs
Help us spread the word!
Twitter can help you find your next job!Simply follow us for our live job tweets:


text:
|Olympic medal record
|Men's ice hockey
|Competitor for Canada
|1932 Lake Placid
Victor Carl Lindquist (March 22, 1908 – November 30, 1983) was an ice hockey player.
He was born in Gold Rock, Ontario.
Lindquist led the Winnipeg Hockey Club, the Canadian team which won the gold medal at the 1932 Winter Olympics. He played five matches and scored three goals.
He was inducted into the International Ice Hockey Federation Hall of Fame in 1997.He is also a member of the North Western Ontario sports hall of fame. He coached the Swedish national team at the 1936 Olympics and was a referee of international fame.
Awards and achievementsEdit
- Allan Cup Championship (1931)
- Olympic Gold Metalist (1931)
- World Championship Gold Medalist (1935)
- Inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame in 1997
- Inducted into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame and Museum in 2004
- "Honoured Member" of the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame
External linksEdit
- Victor Lindquist's biography at databaseOlympics.com
- Vic Lundquist's biography at Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame and Museum
- Vic Lindquist's biography at Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame
|This page uses content from Wikipedia. The original article was at Vic Lundquist. The list of authors can be seen in the page history. As with Ice Hockey Wiki, the text of Wikipedia is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike License 3.0 (Unported) (CC-BY-SA).
Community content is available under CC-BY-SA unless otherwise noted.


text:
All Things Concrete knows concrete sealants like Bill Gates knows computers, and sealing concrete and masonry work is one of our specialties! We highly recommend all porous surfaces outdoors and usually in be properly sealed if you want to keep the usage cost down.
Due to our geographical location, and extreme weather patterns, exterior substrates especially during the winter months need to keep moisture and precipitation out. Moisture within concrete, pavers, natural stone etc., in conjunction with freeze thaw cycles will undoubtedly cause surface deterioration and then integral damage. This process will result in the need for "repairs", and if ignored long enough, replacement. It is not a matter of if, but a matter of when.
There are countless concrete sealers on the market that are usually engineered for one specific application or another, but be assured that not all sealers are created equal. Save on the annual maintenance budget by getting your concrete and other porous substrates at sealed correctly. Let the experienced staff at All Things Concrete steer you through the hectic marketing jargon, unrealistic warranties and headaches of not knowing. Get the right product and an effective treatment to protect and preserve your concrete and masonry investments!
Great for: Reread the first sentence of Sealing and Protecting and give us call!
Ideal For: Driveways, Garages, Sidewalks, Patios, Pools decks, any raw concrete, Basements, Stone of any sort; real or synthetic, Pavers. Once again, if it absorbs water, it needs to be sealed!
Kansas City Metro including, Johnson County, Wyandotte County, Jackson County. Cities of Kansas City Missouri, Kansas City Kansas, Overland Park, Leawood, Stilwell, Mission, Olathe, Roeland Park, Lenexa, Shawnee, Prairie Village, Waldo, Brookside, and Lee's Summit, Blue Springs, Independence & Grandview.
© Copyright 2020, gorockkc. All Rights Reserved.4225 West 107th Street Suite 11572, Overland Park, KS 66207 913-890-3688


text:
The Eagles dominated every phase of the football game this past Friday versus the Fightin' Scotts from Rim of the World High School. The Eagles were reflective of their perfect 7-0 record in winning every phase of the football game from special teams to offense, and defense. The Eagles even won the pre-game coming out of their inflatable, smoke-filled tunnel at Ronnie Lott Stadium donning pink game jerseys symbolizing and honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Eisenhower is off to its best start to a season in years with a 7-0 record. Folks close to the historic Rialto high school program know just how dominate Eisenhower was in the '80's and '90's and they're excited about the possibility of the post-season and possible CIF championship. But, head coach Al Brown will not listen to any of the rhetoric right now. In his post game addresss to the entire team after the big win against Rim of the World, Coach Brown enfatically pointed out that "there were too many mistakes, and too many penalties from a team that is undefeated. You cannot continue to perform this way if you have any hopes of winning a championship." Coach Brown said exactly what you would expect a head coach to say, especially one who is preparing this team for a long awaited return to championship football.
Joel Ayala, the cousin of the quarterback, Caesar Ayala was unstoppable and was the HSPN Sports West Player of the Game, earning the honors with two long touchdown runs that put Eisenhower in complete control of the football game.
Next week Eisenhower travels to San Gorgonio in a very intense league contest where San Gorgonio has successfully defended its league title in past years. San Gorgonio is 5-2 overall with a 2-0 league record. Coach Brown knows exactly what his team has to do to make it 8-0 on the year, "go 1-0 each week."
Be sure to watch full interviews with Coach Brown, Joel Ayala, and features from HSPN Sports West Correspondant, Kathryn Gallo on HSPN YouTube. You can link to our YouTube channel by clicking on the links below.


text:
Software Sales and Business Development Position
Vortext Analytics is seeking a seasoned Salesperson/Business Developer with experience in healthcare software sales and a focus on business development. Ideal candidate will have a hunter approach to sales, with strong initiative and high sense of urgency. Able to drive sales through all stages of the sales process.
With this position, you will be in on the ground floor of a well-funded, growing start-up with seasoned leadership, excellent technical and product management team, and a strong healthcare client and development partner. If you are interested, send your resume to email@example.com.
- Execute the go-to-market strategy for the launch of a new product initiative
- Identify and develop relationships with executives who are prospective clients or business partners
- Identify and generate new business and sales opportunities
- Identify and qualify OEM/partner alliances with other healthcare organizations
- Identify and qualify high value opportunities
- Create, manage and strengthen strategic alliances with clients
- Actively participate in strategic deals
- Establish the company's ability to deliver business value through reference and use case selling and proof of concept engagements
- Understand the formal and informal buying process in the customer's environment
- Manage the closing process, including negotiations, terms and conditions, and procurement activities
- Execute business plan to engage with appropriate partner teams for distribution; report on all actions and activities
- Develop key relationships within the industry to gain insight to enhance product features and become market leaders
- Consistently communicate and brainstorm with management and extended team around all aspects of account and opportunity development
- Meet or exceed sales and other relevant organization goals on a consistent basis
- Maintain an active sales pipeline that achieves/exceeds revenue goals
- Establish with Executive Management quarterly and annual product sales and revenue goals and meet/exceed sales/revenue targets
- Keep up with industry news and trends
- Attend tradeshows as required
- Minimum 50% travel required
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent. Master's degree preferred.
- Minimum of 5 years of healthcare solution specific software sales experience
- Direct or indirect experience in data sciences or analytics and the ability to communicate and position software technology
- Managed CRM software experience
- Excellent PowerPoint, Excel and Word skills
- OEM partner sales development experience
- Demonstrated success with relationship marketing and consultative sales activities resulting in revenue generation through new business development
- A demonstrated history to consistently meet or exceed annual quota and performance targets
- A sense of urgency in performance and executing objectives
- A strong commitment to quality assurance
- Excellent health insurance coverage
- Great 401k match (up to 6% of your salary)
- Long term disability insurance coverage at no cost to you
Vortext Analytics™ is committed to providing equal employment opportunity without regard to an individual's race, color, religion, age, sex, veteran status, national origin, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal or state law.
Job offers for this position are conditional on passing a background check and drug screening.
To apply, send a copy of your resume to email@example.com.


text:
Swiss Agrees To Provide Details of Black Money: Jaitley
Published: 18th October 2014 12:09 AM | Last Updated: 18th October 2014 12:47 AM | A+A A-
NEW DELHI: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today claimed a breakthrough saying the Swiss government has agreed to share information on Indians stashing illicit money there in certain cases, but blamed a 1995 agreement as the constraining factor in disclosing their names.
Watch Video: Not at All Reluctant to Reveal Names Says Arun Jaitley
Also Read:
Talking to reporters here on a day his government came under attack for expressing inability in the Supreme Court in disclosing names of black money holders abroad, he said, Switzerland has agreed to share information related to HSBC and Liechetenstein lists, provided there is independent evidence collected by Indian authorities.
Besides, the Swiss government would "confirm the genuineness or otherwise" details of foreign accounts of Indian citizens procured by intelligence agencies, Jaitley said.
"The Government of India is taking all necessary steps to access tax-related information from foreign governments... Black money stashed abroad will be brought back," he said, disclosing details of the discussions held by an official delegation with Swiss government which returned this morning.
After the government toed the UPA government's line in the Supreme Court hearing today, Jaitley blamed the agreement entered into by the Congress government with Germany in 1995 as a constraining factor in disclosing details of black money stashed abroad.
He rejected the charge that the Modi government was reluctant to part with information about the names of persons having black money abroad.
"Is the present NDA government led by Modi in any way reluctant to make some names public? Certainly not. We have no difficulty in making names public. But they can be made public only in accordance with due process of law.
"And the due process of law has been constrained by DTAA (Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement) which was entered into between India and Germany when the Congress Party was in power on June 19, 1995," he said.
Earlier in the day, Congress had slammed the Modi government for refusing to disclose the names of persons having black money accounts to the Supreme Court. Referring to the recent meeting between Indian and Swiss authorities in Berne, he said the crucial question was details of the people whose name have been given with regard to the accounts of the HSBC Bank list.
"We only have a list of names and we wanted details of those accounts. The Swiss so far has been completely refusing to give us any details on the grounds that these were stolen documents.
"A breakthrough was reached that in cases where there is independent investigation in India and evidence is collected in India, those details in relation to those accounts will be provided even if those accounts are on the HSBC list. So, that absolute prohibition which the Swiss had imposed no longer exists," the Finance Minister said.
Jaitley said the Swiss authorities have also agreed to provide the requested information in a time-bound manner or else indicate the reasons why the cases cannot be answered within the agreed timeline.
Also, he said Switzerland has assured that they would commence talks with India for concluding an Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) Agreement between India and Switzerland at the earliest, after completion of their domestic procedures.
On Congress party charges, an official statement said the Government is taking all necessary steps to access tax related information from foreign Governments.
"If the Government is not able to give a commitment to maintain confidentiality of information exchanged under tax treaties...it will not receive information about Indians hiding their money in other countries including offshore financial centers and tax havens through multi-layered entities with non-transparent ownership," it said.
The Finance Minister also said that government will make public the names of people who have illicit wealth in offshore accounts once formal charges are framed.
"We have no difficulty in making the names public," Jaitley said, adding that it was constrained in making the disclosures due to a double taxation pact signed by the then Congress government with Germany in 1995.


text:
Winters are almost over and here I am, finally with the look book I had drafted almost two months ago and wasn't able to put it up because of the photographer I did the first shoot with. The man turned out to be an absolute laid back dimwit. And after chasing him for several weeks for the pictures, I had to finally give up and redo the entire shoot. Let's face it, obstacles and people like these are everywhere, but then nothing and no one can come between you and what you want to do, period!
When I shot this look-book, all I thought of was black and white, basics, classic and a retro, or, vintage feel for the whole shoot. Having one hero piece, and creating the whole look around it with basics like a white shirt, a pair of black trousers, etc. Minimal is what I had in mind, styles that anyone can create with what they already have in their wardrobes.
Look 1 – Animal Print
I bought this zebra print hoodie from Sarojini nagar in 2009 and I actually thought it looked hideous and had dumped it aside, you know, that one guilty corner that every girl has, packed with clothes which are never worn? Yup there. So the poor guy has been lying there for over 7-8 years, unused, until the other day I found it while looking for something animal print for this shoot and thought, 'Hmmm, it's actually not that bad.'
As I said earlier, styling these hero classic pieces with basics was my motive for this look-book, I paired this hoodie with a crisp white shirt and black skinny pants. And well, red heels because for some reason when I think of a black and white outfit, I cannot help but add a dash of red into it.
Look 2: Checks
Confident and comfortable is what I feel in this all baggy everything look! If you like wearing loose clothing even during winters, then try a boxy top and pair it with an over-sized blazer, loose trousers and chaplin shoes. Winter layering cannot get cozier than this!
Look 3: Beret Hats/ Caps
This whole look to be honest is dedicated to the little beret for ever since I bought the cap, I wanted to create a look with it. When I think of beret, I somehow think of Paris, french artists and hence, with this outfit I went all out looking French keeping it simple with a black and white check skirt .
You can wear full tights and boots instead if you feel keeping yourself warm is more important than going more adventurous with knee length socks and heels.
So here they are, three simple and stylish outfits that you can create easily with the staples from your wardrobe this winter. And if you don't already have them, I suggest you buy them right away because like I said, these outfits are all about creating looks with timeless fashion pieces and basics, which means you would be able to use them through out the year, well, until they last!
Let me know which one is your favorite and if any of these looks inspired you to create something of your own!


text:
Discussion Starter • #1 •
I recently bought my 1998 SLK230K, The tires on it dont exactly match factory recommendations which may be attributing to my handling dissatisfaction. however I have put less then 1K miles on the SLK and may be expecting it to hold the road and handle closer to the luxary sedans I use as everyday drivers. My problem is the SLK doesnt hold the road well in the tire tracks in the pavement, rough pavement or crossing the groove between lanes, they all throw the car. I am hoping if the tires are changed this problem can be taken care of. Not a race type driver and car has factory rims, would like smooth ride and handling. What suggestions would you make on tires to buy? thinking about Michelin Pilot Primacy front 205/55R1691V rear 225/50R1692V ???[?]


text:
Pack Year Calculator
This pack year calculator finds out how many packs of cigarettes you smoked in your life and provides a pack year value. A pack year is a unit used to measure the amount of tobacco a person has smoked over a long period. It is used for example by clinicians, as a parameter for eligibility to screening for lung cancer. If you are shocked after seeing the result of your pack year value and cigarettes smoked in a lifetime, check out our other useful tools:
How to calculate the pack years?
The pack year (PY) is calculated by multiplying the number of packs of cigarettes smoked per day (Packs) by the number of years (Years) the person has smoked.
PY = Packs * Years
PY = (Cigarettes per day/Pack size) * Years, if your pack size is different than standard 20 cigarettes.
If you want to know how many packs (PL) or cigarettes (CL) you already smoked in your life, use the formula:
PL = Cigarettes per day * 365.24 * Years
CL = (Cigarettes per day/Pack_size) * 365.24 * Years
Example of pack year calculation
One pack year is equivalent to smoking 20 cigarettes a day for one year (1 pack * 1 year). If you are smoking ten cigarettes daily for two years (0.5 pack * 2 years), or two cigarettes per day in your ten years smoking history (0.1 pack * 10 years), it still gives us one smoking pack year.
However, it is still debatable if the pack years are good enough for assessing the risk of the lung cancer. Some researchers claim that longer exposure to smoke (e.g., 40 years, a half pack per day) poses greater risk than shorter periods (10 years with two packs per day) even though the number of pack years is the same in both cases.
Advanced mode information
In the advanced mode of the pack year calculator, you can change the pack size, if your packs differ from the standard ones. Also, you can display the packs and cigarettes smoked in a lifetime - this values usually speak more to our imagination than abstract smoking pack years.


text:
When facing large scale budgetary decisions for their commercial operations, most top executives rely on carrying forward what was historically considered important and on fresh input from their managers.
Are You Seeing the Whole Picture?
There May Well Be Disconnects — Mirror Audits Reveal Wasted Resources
To deepen the approach, a similar mirror survey can then be conducted with the sales reps (fig.2), which gives them the opportunity to establish how they themselves gauge the impact of each of the resources vs how well they believe the company performs.
Mirror Analysis Produces Further Key Insights
Several conclusions can be drawn from this exercise:
Mirror analysis highlights the areas where budget should be allocated in priority–or cut!
However, explanations of such changes need to communicated to the sales force and focus placed on increased corporate communication and training, so that each sales team member becomes an "advocate of change."
|Henry Gazay, CEO Medimix International
Direct Line: + 1 973 845 4378
|Kathryn McAdam, Dir BD North America
Direct Line: +1 786-363-4602


text:
Slant bed CNC lathe flat bed CNC lathe What's the difference?
slant bed CNC lathe flat bed CNC lathe What's the difference? China Machine Tool Business Network Tracy: slant bed CNC lathe peaceful bed CNC lathe machine layout Contrast: flat bed CNC lathes, two rails parallel to the plane and the ground plane. Slant bed CNC lathe two rails and the plane of the ground plane intersect into a bevel angle has 30 °, 45 °, 60 °, 75 ° points. From the machine side, flat bed CNC lathe bed was a square, slant bed CNC lathe bed right-angled triangle. Obviously, under the same circumstances rail width, slant bed to the X carriage than the flat bed is longer, in practical significance is that it can arrange more lathe knives digit slant bed CNC lathe bed CNC peace lathe machine cutting rigidity contrast: slant bed CNC lathe large cross-sectional area than the flat bed of the same size, that is resistance to bending and torsional ability. Slant bed CNC lathe tool is diagonally above the workpiece is cut down, consistent with the direction of cutting force of gravity and the workpiece, so the spindle running relatively smoothly, cutting unlikely to cause vibration, and flat bed CNC lathe cutting tool and cutting force of gravity with the workpiece into the workpiece 90 °, easy to cause vibration. Slant bed CNC lathe flat bed CNC lathes machining precision Contrast: CNC lathe screw drive are high precision ball screw, lead screw and nut drive gap between the small, but it is not that there is no gap, as long as there is a gap, when the screw towards one direction and then reverse drive, will inevitably produce backlash, there is backlash will affect the repeatability of CNC lathes, thus affecting the machining accuracy. Gap slant bed CNC lathe can directly affect the layout of the X-direction ball screw, gravity acts directly on the axial screw, so that backlash when the drive is almost zero. X direction flat bed CNC lathe axial screw is not the influence of gravity, the gap can not be directly eliminated. This is designed to slant bed precision CNC lathes bring inherent advantages. Slant bed CNC lathe flat bed CNC lathes machine tool chip capacity comparison: because the relationship between gravity slant bed CNC lathe is not easy winding tool, which will help chip; in conjunction with the center screw and sheet metal guard rails, can be avoided in the chips stacking the screw and guide rail. Slant bed CNC lathes are generally configure automatic chip conveyor, can automatically remove the chip, increasing the effective working time workers. Flat bed structure is difficult to adding automatic chip conveyor. Slant bed CNC lathe peaceful bed CNC lathe machine automatic production of contrast: configuration machine tool-digit increases, automatic chip conveyor, in fact, are laying the foundation for the automation of production. One unattended more than one machine, the machine has been the direction of development. Slant bed CNC lathe and then the addition of milling power head, automatic feeder bed or robotic, automatic feeding, a fixture to complete all of the steps chips, automatic cutting, automatic chip removal, it would be very efficient automatic CNC lathes. Flat bed CNC lathe structure at a disadvantage in terms of automation. Although slant bed CNC lathe comprehensive advanced than the flat bed CNC lathes, but the market share is far behind. Advantages flat bed CNC lathe production and other easily occupy more than 90% of the CNC lathe market share.


text:
CPIA @ Queen's University
Finance Impact
Sale price
Regular price
Learning objectives
- Assess the financial and social feasibility of a project in one integrated model
- Conduct analysis on working capital, inflation, exchange rate, and financing options
- Conduct sustainability analysis
- Measure and manage risk at project and portfolio levels
- Identify performance and payment indicators
Delivery method
- Lectures complemented by applied case studies and in-class discussions
We welcome participants of different academic and professional backgrounds. The course is designed so that individuals at any level of an NGO, foundation, international development, finance institution, or municipal and local government will advance their knowledge of project finance.
Please note that all fees are in CAD.
- Includes breakfast and lunch
- Excludes accommodation & taxes
- Have a discount code? Add it in checkout
- Municipal government employees are eligible for the not-for-profit rate
Payment instructions
- Our online check-out system accepts credit card payments. Applicants that opt to pay by wire transfer will be emailed an invoice along with payment instructions.
On-campus accommodations
Stay on Queen's University campus, a 5 minute walk to the training facilities. The price reflects a 6 night stay (check-in on Sunday before the program, checkout on Saturday after the program). Click here for more information about premium and traditional accommodations at Queen's University.


text:
Your Privacy
We use cookies to make your experience better. To comply with the new e-Privacy directive, we need to ask for your consent to set the cookies. Learn more.
I woke up like this..join the club
Start your day right with a hot cup of tea or coffee...
- Black and white ceramic mug
- Perfect for hot drinks!
- 11 oz
- With hand drawn text by Dom and Ink
- Text reads: Resting Bitch Face®
Each mug arrives in a protective cardboard box.
These mugs are exclusively designed for Rock On Ruby! Why not get the matching top to your mug!?
*Last few remaining!!*
Please allow up to 5 working days for delivery. Express and Intonational services have been suspended at this time xx


text:
TV Stands Casual Contemporary Metal Media Console with Bracket
This simple and stylish metal television console will fit in nicely with almost any home decor, great for a living room, family room, or even bedroom. The sleek black metal frame features arcing legs on each side, with two spacious lower shelves and a smaller upper shelf that are ideal for electronics components, movies, and other media items. A sturdy metal bracket is attached to this unit so you can mount your flat panel television for comfortable viewing. Cord holes in the back will keep your equipment organized. Add this functional TV stand to your home for an instant update. This console is recommended for a 36" or smaller TV, and will hold up to 130 lbs.
|Length (side to side)
|Height (bottom to top)
|Width (front to back)


text:
In Ghana, a new advisory center for returning migrants opens. Container homes for migrants on Lesbos finally arrive after locals had blocked the delivery since Monday. InfoMigrants visited the German town of Siegburg and talked to volunteers and officials about the changing mood two years after the refugee crisis. This and more in today's roundup.
German-backed center to help Ghanaians find their feet at home: A migrants advisory center has opened in Accra aimed at helping Ghanaians to find jobs and opportunities at home, instead of attempting the often treacherous journey to Europe.
EU reignites dispute over refugee quotas ahead of Brussels summit: Fresh tensions have flared up over a controversial scheme to move thousands of refugees across European Union countries. One senior official compared talks on the divisive issue to "fighting trench warfare."
Libyan government criticizes Amnesty, 'grateful to Italy': Libya's foreign minister has said that Amnesty International's accusations made to the EU on the torture of migrants in the North African country are ''exaggerated''. He added that Libya was grateful to Italy for its help.
Authorities end migrant container home blockade on Lesbos: Prefabricated container homes have been offloaded on Lesbos after being stuck in the port since Monday. Local authorities and residents had protested against further migrant housing on the island.
Long-format feature "A changing mood": Two years have passed since dramatic images depicting the refugee crisis of 2015 went around the world. The situation remains a major challenge – for refugees as well as for volunteer helpers in communities across Germany. One of those communities is Siegburg.
Refugee helpers in Germany sued for helping refugees: German refugee helpers who guaranteed the living costs of Syrian refugees are being forced to pay back costs by job centers. Refugee organizations say people are being punished for showing humanity.
Migrants 'essential for Italy' but inequality remains: A research publication on migration in Italy highlights how the economic contributions of migrants in Italy is essential, yet inequality persists in terms of work opportunities and education.


text:
The Spirit P40 design has been consistently customised to suit the needs of different owners over the years. In each variation of the P40 design, three things remain constant: performance, beauty and quality craftsmanship.
Crafted from sustainable timber using Spirit's highly developed wood-epoxy construction technique, the P40 is a performance cruising yacht weighing only 4.5 tonnes. Whilst the P40 has slightly less volume than production yachts of her size, the loss in volume is a major gain in performance. With a true planing lightweight hull, the P40 delivers a top speed of 35 knots and a comfortable cruising speed of 28 knots. Speed over the water is complemented by smooth handling and impressive fuel efficiency.
Semi displacement power boats of a similar size cannot reach these speeds and the inefficiency of such designs generates lackluster handling and poor fuel economy.
The P40 hull design stays true to Spirit Yachts' 1930s-inspired, elegant style and combines a flared bow with a tumblehome stern. The dramatic shape of the bow offers excellent wave-piercing characteristics with spray being thrown well clear of the yacht. The interior and deck layout can be designed to suit any criteria including layout, itinerary and appliances.
The cruising option layout includes an open-plan double-berth, although additional accommodation in the deck saloon can be incorporated. With options for dining space below or alfresco in the cockpit, there is also the possibility to specify an enclosed or semi-enclosed wheelhouse. The cockpit galley is well equipped with an electric hob, ample storage for crockery and provisions accompanied by a sink and fridge down below.
Fully air-conditioned with a fitted 220v generator, the P40 also includes an en-suite with separate shower and an electric flushing toilet. A bimini, aft deck shower and swim platform with fold down swim ladder on the transom provide added cruising benefits.
Displacing only 4.5 tonnes, the P40 is powered by two Yanmar 260hp inboard engines, which deliver a top speed of 36 knots and a cruising speed of 29 knots.
Stunningly beautiful with fast, electric performance, combining elegant looks with state of the art marine technology. Immensely strong, lightweight and easy to sail.
Offers the legendary performance of the 'Classic Spirits' in designs that now create more volume and even greater comfort. Designed and crafted to the highest specifications.
Spirit can custom design from a blank sheet. Over the years Spirit have designed a rich variety of yachts, both sail and power, which extend the scope of 'Classic' and 'Deckhouse'.


text:
Bidmead Cook have introduced state of the art touch screens into their window displays to give sellers the absolute best chance of selling their property.
No longer static window cards restricting the number of properties displayed in our prime High Street locations, but full HD ultra bright and vibrant display screens showing every property available and totally interactive from the outside.
This isn't some dimly lit TV screen rolling one property after another, but an interactive experience where potential buyers search and find exactly what they're looking for.
The interactive screen is available 24 hours a day giving buyers the opportunity to search for their ideal home even when the office is closed.
Updated automatically, the screens quickly show newly available properties and recent price changes.
Window shoppers become active potential buyers at any time of the day as they are able to access all properties for sale and to let around the clock.
Property details will be available and displayed in each and every location.


text:
Objective To understand how EPPS ERP has addressed critical business needs for cold storage, ripening chambers and heat pump drying machines industry. Industry Overview One of the major industry are manufacturer and traders of a wide range of finest quality of the cold storage & ripening chambers and heat pump drying machines. The various product…More
Why document management is necessary for an ERP
A good ERP system not only provides end-to-end business process management and organizational efficiency but also acts as a central repository for documents, orders, challans, delivery notes and a whole lot of communication documents that circulate both within and outside the organization. While there might be endless tools to manage documents online, but managing documents…More
Why simple and user friendly ERP is a must for emerging companies and startups
There may be a general belief that emerging companies and startups may be too small to go for an ERP. This comes from the mindset that the number of users drives the need for an ERP solution. As small companies and startups have less number of employees, they might not need an ERP to manage…More


text:
Emphasising the positive
Lots of doom and gloom could be avoided by not reading newspapers, listening to news reports – or by heading into the Kalahari and cutting off the world!
How about good news? South African wine is climbing an ever steepening curve of positivity. Commentators far and wide are praising its quality, the dynamism of its producers and its value.
Writing for the influential Wall Street Journal recently, Will Lyons hailed SA for its fine wine – not value or branded wine, fine wine. Lyons singled out Bordeaux-style red blends for attention saying that of all New World producers, SA was best. Australia and the USA had good individual examples while both Chile and Argentina were able to deliver volumes of decent quality at a good price but hadn't really mastered the fine wine segment.
Neal Martin, the influential reviewer for eRobertParker.com, is on record as saying this country is the most dynamic and exciting wine region in the world today. And in the last month Tim Atkin produced his annual South Africa Report, even going so far as to classify wine producers modelled on the famous Bordeaux classification of 1855. It got tongues wagging since 13 of his top 15 producers only started up after 1994!
(Stalwarts Kanonkop and Klein Constantia were included in that top bracket, alongside Alheit, Boekenhoutskloof, Cape Point, Delaire Graff, David & Nadia, Keermont, Mullineux & Leeu, Newton Johnson, Paul Cluver, Porseleingberg, Rall and Reyneke.)
There is a palpable energy and excitement in the local wine fraternity. A new generation of winemakers are emerging – and they're not hairy hipsters from the Swartland but a second generation whose fathers are passing on the baton and wisdom.
Neil Ellis is an eminence grise of the local industry and his son Warren is showing the same measured calmness and attention to quality. Similarly, Peter de Wet of De Wetshof is impressing with his deft touch in the cellar. The transition was managed some time ago when Chardonnay pioneer Danie encouraged his son to study winemaking at Geisenheim in Germany.
Thomas Webb, son of the more famous Gyles who established Thelema Mountain Vineyards in 1983, opted to go the marketing rather than production route – but he's already making smart decisions about the label's future.
Etienne le Riche is probably one of the quietest and most unsung rocks of SA wine, responsible for some great Rustenberg wines before establishing his own Cabernet-focussed range which hasn't wavered from its perch at the top since inception in 1997. Son Christo is now handling the winemaking although Etienne is guiding him … gently, and passing on his experience of working with old SA staples like Cinsaut. As they say in the classics, "watch this space" about a new release from Le Riche in the future.
Jacques Borman was one of the early fans of Shiraz while still in harness at La Motte. His son, Reenen, must have almost been weaned on it so adept is he at making it! Boschkloof is not a well known label but is one to watch and seek out, with its Epilogue Syrah 2014 having been rated 98/100 by Atkin who called it: "a stunning achievement", making it his SA red wine of the year and likened it to top Hermitage.
South African wine is in safe hands and exciting times lie ahead for consumers.
Article written by
Fiona McDonald who is the former Editor of Wine Magazine and serves as a taster on numerous international competitions,including the International Wine Challenge and the International Wine & Spirit Competition


text:
2016 Audi S4by Garage Mike June 17, 2016
What's this, then?
Audi's latest S4. It's the sixth generation of the badge and arrives all-new.
What's so new about it?
Audi's dropped in the four-door sedan a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, replacing the old supercharged 3.0-litre MOTOR loved so much.
On paper it might seem Audi's simply bolted a huffer to the old V6 alloy block. It again uses 24 valves, six cylinders, and identical bore and stroke measurements. But bore spacing's changed, and its 14kg lighter. It's now also bolted to an eight-speed auto.
Also, like an RS6, the cylinder heads have been rotated to pump air through a twin-scroll turbo in its vee. It churns out 260kW and 500Nm, or 15kW/60Nm more than the old one.
Surely to help with new love handles…
Wrong. The new chassis, based on the MLB evo platform, sheds 15kg, while its panels, steering, and body in white slash another 16kg. Further kilos were outed by things like seats, and overall 75kg has vanished from the S4's hips.
Looks good too, but how do you even know it's an S4?
Badges, silver mirror scalps and a set of quad-exhausts poking from the rear diffuser are the subtle clues, but new front six-piston calipers are the real giveaways.
There's not much inside to reveal you're in an S model either. It's the same high-tech affair as the A4, in where you're greeted by a suave layered stack and rich materials.
How's it drive, then?
The new S4 is fast. Despite its Hankooks' low grip levels, the five-link suspension setup all-round and quattro drivetrain extract the most from them.
Adaptive damping and a rear sports differential are still its cornerstone dynamic weapons, and with inside-wheel braking now added you can power out of corners so early. It rides okay, too, but we didn't try a car without adaptive damping.
Okay, the important part, is the new engine any good?
With the turbine harboured in its vee gas paths are extremely short. The reality of this is the engine's super responsive. Even in the depths of its rev-range it pulls hard, making peak torque 1530rpm sooner than the old supercharged mill at 1370rpm.
It doesn't rev high as the old unit, but with the new turbo V6's delivery over by 6400rpm there's no point. And there's no aural treat to keep you hanging around either.
So less character, but is it better value?
If Audi can price it right (it's aiming for $106K for the sedan and $109K for the Avant) the S4's going to be hard to beat. There's so much technology available–Wi-Fi, inductive phone charging, matrix LEDs, automatic safety tech – that it comes down to what ends up standard.
It'll be most likely be the head-up display, virtual cockpit, and round steering wheel on local S4s. Which isn't a bad deal, but if Audi wants to tempt buyers out of serious sport metal at $100K, we'd also want either nappa seats, sports rear diff, or adaptive dampers.
What about its luxury competition?
Stay tuned for a stoush between Jaguar's XE S, BMW's 440i Gran Coupe, and the soon-to-arrive Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG after the S4 lands fourth quarter this year.
Engine: 2995cc V6, DOHC, 24v, turbo
Power: 260kW @ 5400-6400rpm
Torque: 500Nm @ 1370-4500rpm
Weight: 1610kg
0-100km/h: 4.7sec (claimed)
Price: $106K (estimated)


text:
Milestone. The Oxford dictionary defines milestone as 'a stone set up beside a road to mark the distance in miles to a particular place' or 'a significant stage or event in the development of something'.
People use them all the time, drug addicts (ahem), alcoholics, basically people trying to quit things. They are used as a benchmark. Marking that point in time where you've said enough is enough. This stops here. And we usually look upon them as some sort of positive thing. But are they really something to remember or just an unneccesary weight around your neck? Even the word itself sounds heavy.
Of course they are also used in remembrance of something good like how long you've been married, or that first time you met a loved one, or a birthday. But as this journey is about being better, which obviously implies letting go of bad habits, bad attitudes, I am going to focus on the former.
You see, given the week that it was, I have unfortunately been pondering a certain milestone that is arriving next month. The 1 year anniversary of the day my wife left. The day when all this really began.
The thing is I actually don't know what date it was. Of course I could figure it out if I wanted to. It was a couple of weeks before our 10th anniversary, near my father's birthday. But I don't want to. I don't want that milestone to remember. It's bad enough knowing what month it happened in. I don't need it to be anymore concrete than that. I don't want to be going to bed the night before worrying about the day that was coming or waking up that morning to that depressive thought.
That set me thinking. When anyone is trying to quit something, be it drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, they like to mark their journey and when they hit a certain milestone it gives them cause for celebration. I understand that. It's the celebration of a goal. A badge of honour.
At the same time however if they falter, if they fail, even once, that clock, that measurement, has been reset. Now how hard would that be to deal with? Especially if it was after one week, one month, one year. In fact, the longer and greater the milestone the greater the fall.
So what if the answer was to not have any milestones at all? People in recovery are often told to 'live one day at a time'. It's a saying attributed to the Alcoholics Anonymous and their 'Big Book'. Often told to help a person through a specifically bad day. To be present in that moment and not worry about yesterday or tomorrow. Some would argue that true recovery takes much more than that and you must look ahead also.
For example. Similar to not knowing what specific date my 'wife' left on, I do not know what date I stopped smoking marijuana. After 20 odd years, I just stopped. I didn't want to turn it into a big event. I don't even want to remember when it was. It's good enough for me to know I just don't need that in my life anymore.
If I think about smoking again, I will just let that thought go. But if I did slip, and that is a massive if, I wouldn't beat myself up too much about it. I wouldn't be worried about the fact I was 'clean' for so long. I wouldn't worry about whatever milestone I had achieved. It would only be one day, almost the same as any other day, with its challenges, trials and tribulations. A day that would pass and be followed by me setting out to try my best again.
It's not just the negative things I have taken this approach to. I haven't made a record of when I started exercising regularly either, when I started on this journey of being better. I don't even want to. The reason being I actually think it's pointless. I don't need to know when I started to improve. I'm just glad I did and will continue to do so.
The way I see it is, yes, one day at a time is the way to go. But it's not one day more where you muddle through, just get by. It's one day where you try that little bit harder, be a little bit better, improve on who you were the day before. It's not an extra day of stagnation or backward movement. It's a day of forward movement, of progression.
And if you have setback, or lose your way slightly, then it's only one day. No big event, no big disaster, no big letdown. It's just one day that will be followed by another. Another fresh new day at that.
So if you are happy with your milestones, good for you. It's whatever works after all and that's the most important thing. If that goal, that measurement, keeps you going, keeps you pushing forward. Great. Hold onto that.
But for me, I don't need them. I don't need these reminders (Unlike others. See: A Reminder). They are just a heavy burden to bear. It's enough for me to know I'm still travelling, still moving, on this path to being better.
And if I have a set back, so be it, it's no big deal. I just make sure I'll try that bit harder the next day and not worry about an extra weight around my neck, a greater sense of failure, just for having some notion over a date in time.


text:
Here's How to Cop Brian Lotti's Exclusive adidas Originals Campus 80s
Brand: adidas Skateboarding
Model: Campus 80s
Key Features: Premium nubuck construction with leather accents, the tongue features a woven "Brian Lotti" signature label, plus branded heel tabs, special sockliner showcasing Lotti's custom printed artwork, and herringbone rubber cupsole.
Release Date: September 22
Price: $90 USD (Campus 80s) & $28 USD (Tees)
Buy: adidas and select retailers
Editor's Notes: Renowned professional skateboarder, director and artist Brian Lotti is honored with a new drop by adidas Skateboarding including a customized "Respect Your Roots" collection — an ongoing series which pays tribute to skateboarding legends.
Featuring the classic adidas Campus 80s, the same silhouette Lotti adopted for his skating career, the model is essentially updated with the distinct features noted above, while the collection is rounded out with short and long-sleeve tees adorned with Lott's original artwork.
Now, here's how to cop adidas by Raf Simons' FW18 Ozweego and Stan Smith.
To stay updated on everything happening in the sneaker world, follow @Highsnobietysneakers on Instagram, check our sneaker release date calendar and subscribe to our sneaker chatbot on Facebook to receive lightning quick updates to your inbox.
Our designated shopping section features products that we love and want to share with you. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.


text:
Skip to Main Content
Parks & Facilities
Programs & Activities
Special Events
I Want To...
Special Events
Imperial Oil & Plumbing Egg Hunt
South Windsor Parks and Recreation Egg Hunt
Join us on Friday, April 10, 2020 at the South Windsor High School Stadium at 161 Nevers Road For the 49th annual South Windsor Parks and Recreation Egg Hunt! Sponsored by Imperial Plumbing and Oil!
This is a free event! Don't forget a basket or bag to collect eggs!
Please bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to South Windsor's Food and Fuel Bank.
Rain or Shine! Check our cancellation hotline if EXTREME weather! 860-648-6349
Be sure to check your child's specified time below! Arrive early!
Sensory Friendly 9:00 am - 9:30 am
Age 2 - 10:00 am
Age 3 -10:15 am
Age 4 - 10:30 am
Grade K - 10:45 am
Grade 1 - 11:00 am
Grade 2 - 11:15 am
Enjoy the Kids' Fair in the South Windsor High School from 10:00-1:00. The Kids' Fair is sensory friendly from 9:00-10:00. Thank you to the South Windsor Community Women's Club for sponsoring the Kids' Fair!
Thank you to Imperial Plumbing and Oil for their continued support!
Annual Fishing Derby
Ann Masi Memorial School Vacation Magic Show
Doggy Dips at VMP
Farmers Market
Valentine Dance
Imperial Oil & Plumbing Egg Hunt
Free Friday Flicks
May the Fourth Be With You
Merry And Bright Holiday Lights Contest
July is Parks & Rec Month
Pokémon Go Training Guide
Porters Hill Pumpkin Roll
Skate With Santa
Special Events at VMP
South Windsor Classic Tennis Tournament
South Windsor Parks & Recreation 50th Anniversary
Trails For Charities
Trailblazer Poker Ryed
South Windsor Parks & Rec Summer Concert Series
Moon Light Walks
Dodgeball Throw Down
Letters to Santa
Sunset Walk
Heritage Day Bike Ride
Egg-Streme Egg Hunt
Arrow Left
Arrow Right
Slideshow Left Arrow
Slideshow Right Arrow


text:
Location: Penrith NSW
Project: Nepean Mental Health Centre
Structural engineer: Hughes Trueman
Builder: AW Edwards
Architect: Woods Bagot
Client: Health Infrastructure
Featured Products: Click Here
You may not have heard of salutogenic design. It's the concept that the quality of the built environment has an influence on our health.This has been especially taken up by architects as part of an inter-disciplinary approach to the design of healthcare facilities.
At first glance it may seem that precast concrete walling is the antithesis of a nurturing, healing environment but the mellow, tactile exterior walling of the Nepean Mental Health Centre demonstrates otherwise.
Of course, the design of a healthcare facility must also consider treatment requirements and budgets (capital and ongoing), as well as patient safety and security. Precast concrete walling also helps tick many of these boxes.
Built on the extensive campus of the Nepean Hospital in the outer western Sydney suburb of Penrith, the NMHC includes 64-mental health beds servicing high dependency, acute and specialist mental health services for older persons. The unit includes a dedicated inpatient ward and new facilities for the outpatient day program.
The design creates what the designers Woods Bagot call a "living architecture." A facility such as this requires a hard edge for security but the building, both internally and externally, must engage with the patients.
The structure uses conventional commercial construction technology with structural steel columns, steel roof framing and concrete slabs. The extensive glazing, hard steel and prefinished fibre-cement panels relate closely to the adjacent hospital buildings.
They contrast strongly with the non-institutional feel of the interiors, with large areas of glazing and comfortable lounges allowing a visual connection to the three therapeutic internal courtyards. Patients are encouraged to wander in loops through the courtyards and engage with the landscaping.
The most striking building element is the precast concrete walling, substantial areas of which are decorated with a bamboo pattern that is debossed (engraved) into the concrete surface. All precast panels (plain and patterned) are finished in a pleasant coppery green colour, applied on site using Austral Precast's PermaTint process.
The use of the green, patterned walling is most effective around the building entrance, on the long street elevation and most especially in the therapeutic courtyards where the colour and texture blend happily with the landscaping.
It's well accepted that colour has a direct effect on a person's wellbeing. You can see it in our language: colours are judged as warm or cold and we talk of feeling blue, seeing red or being in a black mood. Green is the benign colour of nature and has long been favoured as a positive colour giving permission and safety – think green light, green card, green room, green with envy.
The Nepean green was custom-formulated to an approved sample.The gold-bronze base is topped with a non-metallic weathered green. In certain lighting conditions the metallic base colour becomes more prominent.
The concrete panels were cast at Austral Precast's state-of-the-art facility in Wetherill Park NSW.The bamboo pattern is the result of a rubber formliner that is placed in the base of the casting form or mould.This is a process Austral Precast calls PermaForm®, part of their PermaTech® suite of precast concrete panel treatments and finishes.
A remarkable range of standard formliner patterns is available, from abstract geometrics to brick, stone and timber and in a variety of textures, subtle and overt. Custom formliner designs, including logos, are also possible.
Once the formliner is in place, steel reinforcement is positioned and finally the form is filled with concrete.When cured, the concrete panel is lifted out and the formliner stripped away, ready for reuse.
The 147 precast panels for the Nepean project were delivered to site and installed by . The company is proud to be able to offer a complete end-to-end service from design consultation through manufacture and finishing, to delivery and installation, all with one contract and one point-of-contact and total responsibility.
"The design sought to create a building that fits with the colour palette of the surrounding environment," explains Woods Bagot's principal Domenic Alvaro. "The copper green colour and natural patina of the precast concrete panels has depth and tactility, providing a unique 'on weathering' finish that will continue to evolve over time."
While meeting strict budgetary, treatment, and safety and security requirements, the centre's design concept also provides a level of humaneness and connection to landscape that will assist the patients on their healing journey.
The Nepean Mental Health Centre was officially opened on 31 March 2014.
Featured Products:
AUSTRAL PRECAST CONCRETE PermaForm and PermaTint
Three dimensional designs brought to life. Shapes, artistic designs, and intricate details are formed in concrete, and designed to last a lifetime. PermaForm allows shapes and textures to be imprinted into the panel surface. PermaTint a colouring solution offering a vast array of long lasting colour options.


text:
Member LoginForgot Password?
Not a Member? Become a Member Today! Join Now
WTS offers executive leaders an opportunity to grow their business while supporting the industry. Learn More »
A joint initiative with the Dept. of Transportation. Learn More »
Date: Friday, December 14th, 2012 at 12:00 pm
Location: 518 West Italian Cafe
518 W. Jones St.
Raleigh, NC 27603
Please join WTS NC Triangle Chapter to help us to collect clothing donations for "Dress for Success" Triangle. The mission of Dress for Success is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. This lunch is open to everyone and you can even invite a friend or colleague.
**Please RSVP to the lunch event by responding to this email or online at www.wtsnctriangle.com no later than Wednesday, December 12th.**
For more information about this event or clothing donation pickups, please contact Amy Skelding at email@example.com.
For more information on Dress for Success, see www.dressforsuccess.org/trianglenc


text:
Jakks Pacific Namco Ms. Pac-Man Plug and Play TV GameThis unit has 5 great arcade classics built in or pre-loaded including Ms. Pac-Man, Pole Position, Galaga, Xevious, and Mappy. Great condition. Tested and works like new. Hooks up directly to your TV through AV Jacks and needs 4 AA batteries, not included.
120 Day Warranty


text: This trap is very heavy duty with a guillotine style solid steel door. It is made from a 6" diameter, 7/32" thick pipe, 24" long, and has a solid steel backplate. A skunk can not spray while in this trap, they can not lift their tail, arch their back, or see out. They can be easily transported. Great for ADC work, or for that pesky skunk digging under the house. Can also be used for squirrels, cats, opossum, or any small critter.


text:
What is Wisdom, Really?
Based on the following Scriptures: Proverbs 31: 10-31, Psalm 1, James 3: 13 – 4.3 Mark 9. 30-37
I don't know about you, but I thought we had some really different scripture readings for today. I usually focus on just one reading for my homily, and frequently the gospel, but because of the uniqueness of the readings, I had some trouble making up my mind which one to preach on, and the more I worked with them, the interconnectedness (is that a real word?) of them also became apparent. They all had interesting points I wanted to speak to and I couldn't decide which one to focus on. So I decided to preach on them all!
The last couple of weeks we've been talking about 'wisdom' books in the bible. These are books or letters primarily written for the instruction, guidance or sharing of insights to specific groups of people. The letter of James which we've also been reading from these last few weeks is such a letter, and the only wisdom book in the New Testament. There are 7 other wisdom books actually, from the Old Testament: Job, the Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon from the Old Testament and two in the Apocrypha, Sirach and the Wisdom of Solomon.
Three out of the four scriptures for today come from wisdom books, and in our gospel reading Jesus has pulled his disciples aside for special teaching so as to impart some of his wisdom to them. Wisdom then, is the theme that pulls all our readings together.
My Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church notes that "wisdom occupies a prominent place in the Old Testament. Divine Wisdom (the wisdom of the Almighty God) is manifested in creation and (can be seen) in God's guidance of nations and individuals."1 Next I went to Merriam Webster's on-line dictionary for a more worldly definition. Wisdom is "knowledge that is gained by having many experiences in life; knowledge of what is proper or reasonable (ie) good sense or judgment; (It is) the natural ability to understand things that most other people cannot understand."2 Wisdom, it seems is more than just knowledge gained from experience, it is a bit like common sense, which I've heard it said, is not all that common. Wisdom is an inherent discernment and understanding that not all have. Human wisdom is a gift, a gift of God's grace, a sharing with humanity of God's own divine wisdom. And Paul actually says that in first Corinthians, wisdom is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Faithful and faith-filled people know that God-given gifts are to be shared, and that too is what we are called to do, share of the bountiful gifts God has given us. And so wisdom sayings have been written down for millennia, so they could be transmitted to others, teachings to be shared and learned from.
The Book of Proverbs is an ancient book of "wisdom literature of the Hebrew Bible and also of the ancient Near East, especially Egypt. … The original audience of Proverbs was primarily young men preparing for adult responsibilities (in a patriarchal time so) a male-centered perspective prevails in the book. There is intense interest in finding a 'good wife' and in governing a household successfully."3 Proverbs is a combination of the folk wisdom of ancient Israelite villages and families and writings from royal scribes, which can give an elitist point of view. 4 And we have an example of just that for our first reading. What didn't get read today is the introduction to this piece of sage advice from a king to his son, which would be helpful to put this poem into context. This King is sharing with his son what he, the King learned from his mother; for example how to behave as a proper royal son, and qualities a prince should look for in an ideal spouse, which is this poem. It is often subtitled 'A Capable Wife'. "The NRSV translates the descriptive (Hebrew) word to 'capable', but "the Hebrew carries a far stronger meaning. This woman is more literally a 'strong woman' a 'woman of worth'."5 And a strong and worthy woman is one of great value, to be valued more than diamonds or emeralds.
We know this 'perfect' woman is an idealization, the opening line actually says that because the poem begins with "A capable wife, who can find?" And then we get the laundry list of the capabilities of this prototype of the perfect wife for a prince. Please note: this is not the measuring stick by against which women are to be, this is an ideal personification. This woman is portrayed as never sleeping and always working. No real woman could live in this manner, even a Queen! But what we do see, if we read between the lines of idealization is a pattern of behaviour of wise and faithful living and a life centered on care for others and service to others. Now, that's a wisdom message we all need to hear, man or woman!
The book of Psalms, also called the 'Psalter', is a grouping of 150 sung poetic prayers collected over centuries. Our Psalm for today is known as a 'wisdom' psalm. It is no accident that this particular psalm was chosen to be the introduction to this book. The Psalter was recorded to be 'a repository of divine instruction'6 for the Hebrew people, the people of Israel. It is full of wisdom for those who are trying to live a virtuous life, and Psalm One tells us how: happiness comes from following the laws and ways of the Lord and choosing not to tread the same paths as the wicked and sinners. Simple black and white ancient Hebrew wisdom: the righteous will flourish, the wicked will perish. If only life's choices were that simple!
Our third reading comes from the only wisdom book in the New Testament, the letter of James. No poems or flowery language for him, James gets right to business, he cuts to the chase in his words of wisdom to his first century church in Jerusalem. He asks them, "Who among you is wise and understanding?" (3:13); the two kinds of wisdom he sees as necessary to correct the problems in the community. It seems wisdom is a gift that not many in James' community seem to possess either, and he too acknowledges that wisdom comes 'from above' (3:17). James warns about the perils of envy and selfish ambition being the root of the apparent conflict in the community–devilish he calls it. And why is the community beset with these issues? Well, because they focus on their own needs, their own pleasures. This then leads to the question that is inferred here. If the church community's problems have come about from fulfilling their own needs and ambitions, essentially living for themselves, what would it take to live in peace together? Well, by doing just the opposite, — living for the other. 'If you are wise and understand God's ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom.' (v. 13) For James, 'true wisdom… is not (only) about actions as much as the integration of thought, will, action and context… faith and works made coherent in wisdom."7
This selfish ambition issue was a problem for Jesus' disciples too, as our gospel reading reveals. Jesus has taken his chosen 12 aside and confided in them about his death by betrayal, and his resurrection, and they just don't get it and were too afraid to ask what it all meant. Sometimes we'd really rather not ask the hard questions, because we don't want to hear the answers we're afraid we'll hear. We tell ourselves that it's easier not to know, because then we don't have to act on it either. I think it's a defense mechanism we can succumb to, rather than facing or dealing with something we don't want to face. And the disciples just couldn't face the fact that the one who they have come to believe was the Messiah would be betrayed and killed, never mind the implications of a resurrection. Just to contemplate the whole idea would have been overwhelming. However, the thoughts of their futures without Jesus must have made some impact because along the way to Capernaum they were debating what life without Jesus would mean for them, and which one of them would be the greatest. Jesus asks them what they were talking about and their response—silence! I suspect they were probably a bit embarrassed to be caught in such a conversation. Jesus, being Jesus would have known of course what they were discussing and takes advantage of the teaching moment. He points out to them what is all included in the role of being the king of the castle, so to speak. It means you are actually the servant to all of the inhabitants of the land; including the lowliest. And in biblical times, children were some of the lowest in the class system. To illustrate his point, Jesus picks up a child and puts it on his lap and tells them: "Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes not only me but also my Father who sent me." (v. 37) Well, that would have turned their world upside down. So, to be the one on the top of the heap meant literally cleaning up and working for those who lived on the bottom of the heap. That's the total opposite of what we figure being 'at the top' means—working on the bottom is not generally the thing most strive to accomplish.
Many centuries of wisdom have come together in these scriptures we heard today. The writings for Proverbs began more than a thousand years before Jesus time, Mark's gospel written mid first century and the letter of James dates from the late first century. And yet, the topsy-turvy wisdom message remains the same. "So you want first place? Then take the last place. (And) be the servant of all." (Mark 9: 35 GNT)
The Rev'd JoAnn Todd, Rector
The Regional Ministry of Hope
1 The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church, 'wisdom' p. 558
2 http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wisdom. accessed Sept 15.15
3 Oxford Annotated Bible, commentary for Proverbs. p. 904 Hebrew Bible
4 Ibid
5 Kathleen M. O'Connor: Exegetical Perspective for Proverbs 31: 10-31 in Feasting on the Word, Year B Vol 4 p. 75
6 Oxford Annotated Dictionary, commentary for Psalm 1, p. 777 Hebrew Bible
7 Mark Douglas: Theological Perspective for James 3: 13-4:3, 7-8a in in Feasting on the Word, Year B Vol 4 p. 86


text:
The Children Loved Herriard Estate Day
Earlier this year Tony Rolfe, one of NGO Educational Trust's trustees, attended a schools day at Herriard Estate in North Hampshire on behalf of the Educational Trust. 155 schoolchildren from 4 schools attended and attached are a few thank you letters.
Letter1 Letter2 Letter3 Letter4 Letter5,
Posted: 26 Sep 2017


text:
The CommonsCall: A New Forum for Community Problem Solving
As John Dewey, the great pragmatist and 20th century philosopher, writes: "education is not preparation for life; education is life itself." His sentiment of learning through living – learning through action, is core to our work here at Farm Commons.
Though Farm Commons was founded almost 7 years ago by powerhouse farm advocate and attorney Rachel Armstrong, our team has been and continues to work towards better understanding of the work that we do. This evolving understanding in turn evolves the way we approach our mission, being to empower farmers with the law to be more legally resilient.
So, what exactly is our work, you may be wondering?
Farm Commons is a non-profit organization that offers legal education services to farmers and farmer educators that empower farmers to learn the law in order cultivate legally resilient businesses.
Another way we think about our work is that we facilitate a learning structure through which farmers' create legal solutions for themselves on matters including land access, sales contracts, food safety, and employment, in order to legally sustain and grow their businesses into the future.
We understand our work as facilitating community-centric action – being work for the community, guided by the community.
We recently learned from our friends at Public Lab that this community-centric work is part of a long tradition of "action research," being a process of problem-solving conducted by and for those taking the action.
The Public Laboratory for Open Technology and Science, aka the Public Lab, is a fellow non-profit organization that is steeped in action research - facilitating collaborative open source environmental research in the model known as Community Science. They support communities facing environmental justice issues through a DIY approach to environmental monitoring and advocacy.
One of Public Lab's forums for community problem solving is through the OpenCall, a regularly scheduled call that serves as a conversational forum for peer-to-peer networking and problem solving.
We caught up with Public Lab co-founder Liz Barry about the OpenCall model, which is informing our communal development and outreach forward.
"Opening this [OpenCall] space for questions to bubble up and people to realize that they share common concern is the start of "action research". It's another way to look at things for and by the community… by putting farmers at the center, beginning with their questions and then going out to engage experts as needed, is a general way of producing knowledge in a long tradition of "action research."
In action research the people are in charge." – Liz Barry, co-founder and director of community development at Public Lab
Inspired by Public Lab's OpenCall forum, Farm Commons has launched our own call-in, the CommonsCall, for 2019 as a way for you, our community, to come together on a monthly basis every third Wednesday to engage in farm law problem solving together.
Join us for our next CommonsCall on Wednesday February 20th, from 3-4pm EST. We'll be talking all about food safety, and invite you to join us with your questions and ideas! Register to attend the next call here.
Call-in Info:
Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/547237007
One tap mobile
+16699006833,,547237007# US (San Jose)
Dial by your location
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
Meeting ID: 547 237 007