text:
Welcome to SCARS™ RomanceScamsNow™
A Website Of The Society Of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
A U.S. Charitable Tax-Exempt Nonprofit Corporation
SCARS Is The Official Scam Avoidance Education And Scam Victim's Assistance & Support Division Of The Society Of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. [SCARS]
SCARS Is Independently Supported By Private Grants
Welcome To The World Of Romance Scams!
Actually, they are not about Romance, they are Socially Engineered Scams!
Romance Scams and Socially Engineered Scams Are Corrupting Almost All Social Media Platforms and Dating Websites Today. In Fact, On Some Social Media and Dating & Romance Websites Almost 90% Of All Profiles Are Now Scammers From African Or From Behind The Former Iron Curtain. Scammers Are Usually Easy To Spot, But Some Are Adapting, So Always Watch For The Tell-Tale Clues, And When In Doubt Don't Respond – If She Or He Looks Too Good To Be True, They Probably Are!
Always Assume A Stranger Is A Scammer Until You Know For Sure!
The opinions expressed on this website are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the publisher of this website, and are protected speech under the laws of the United States of America. If any fraudsters or scammers are offended by our statements, Good On Us, we win! This website is not intended for use by minors and does contain adult situations, articles about criminal conduct, and photography that may be frank in nature. Parental discretion is suggested.
Our Team Has Changed Over The Years.
We Leave This In Place Out Of Respect For Those Not With Us Anymore!
RSN Team:
Over The Years We Have Enjoyed The Hard Work Of Many Talented Staff Members
SCARS Officers:
Dr. Tim McGuinness, Chairman & Founder
Mr. L. Tshua
Ms. S. Zhang
SCARS Is Now Managed By:
Tom Borman
SCARS Managing Director
Cynthia Reyes
SCARS Compliance Officer
We would like to thank all of our past and present staff, and the incredible volunteers that have helped in an unbelievable number of ways!
Those that are no longer with us, we miss you!
Thank You All!
SCARS™ Romance Scams Now™
Is the Scam Avoidance Educational & Scam Victims Assistance & Support Division Of SCARS Since 2017
Previously Was An independent Member Organization of SCARS Since 2015
More About SCARS™ Romance Scams Now™
SCARS™ Romance Scams Now™ is a Member Of or Affiliate Of The Following Groups or Organizations:
- U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security Cybersecurity Program Partner
- U.S. Dept. Of Justice Office of Victims of Crime Registered Victims' Assistance Organization
- National Center for Victims of Crime®
- VictimConnect® Registered Crime Victims' Assistance Organization
- NOVA – National Organization for Victims' Assistance
- E.U. Octopus Cybercrime Initiative
- Europol Affiliate
- European Union Council of Europe Affiliate
- Ethics in Scam Reporting [founded in 2016] Member
- Content Compliance Council [founded in 2005] Founding Member
- Anti-Scam Alliance [founded in 2013] Founding Member
- Committee for Data Standards in Scam Reporting [founded 2016] Member
- Plus additional governmental agency affiliations around the world
SCARS is also one of the original two developers of the SCARS|CDN Cybercrime Data Network – an Anti-Scam Data Reporting Network. This website serves as one of the several hundred SCARS|CDN Entry-Points, as well as an End-Point in the SCARS|CDN Network.
Private Grants & Services Donated By:
- Walmart®
- McAfee®
- Target®
- AdPort Creative™
- Lima Consulting™
- Global Commerce Partners™
- Safety Harbour Creative™
- Global Verification Authority™
- AdvertisingExperience®
- DroneCyclone®
- ePayables Solutions
- Others
Site Verifications:
- Alexa®
- United State Department of Homeland Security
- Global Verification Authority™
- Good Business Commission™
- McAfee®
- TrustSite®
SCARS Is Owned By:
SCARS RomanceScamsNow.com is owned and published by the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. [SCARS] Previously owned and published by PerfectReputations® as an independent unit. PerfectReputations® is a part of the WebFossil® Group of Companies. Originally published by McGuinnessPublishing™ in 2003. All SCARS Team members are employees or subcontractors of SCARS. Our domain name is listed as privately registered (for security purposes) through 1and1® which provides services and hosting for RSN & SCARS websites and web-based applications. The current registration was transferred to 1and1 in 2013.
SCARS™ Romance Scams Now™ is funded by two methods: 1) grant funding per month which covers about 90% of the IT, website, and team costs. Additionally, we obtain a very small amount of revenue from ads (these are primarily for SEO value) but provide about 5% to 10% of our costs. In addition, we receive donated time and services from other groups and organizations, and external companies. Neither SCARS nor its parent company derive ANY profit from the operation of SCARS™ RomanceScamsNow™. The Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Incorporated is a Tax-Exempt Nonprofit Non-Governmental Organization [NGO] incorporated in the State of Delaware.
A Brief History of SCARS & RSN:
- 1981 – Dr. McGuinness first use of the Internet (then known as ARPANET) while a Research Scientist at Atari Inc.
- 1982 – Dr. McGuinness invents online advertising and online product reviews, and co-invents internet software download and the ecommerce shopping cart while at ROMOX Inc. (he was a founding shareholder) – these were never patented but based upon the patent applied for ROMOX Video Game Distribution System/Network
- 1982 – Experimented with a Crime Reporting BBS system run from the ROMOX offices in Cupertino California
- 1983 – Collaborated with Japanese National Police on use of personal computers in law enforcement
- 1984 – Dr. McGuinness presents the first white-paper/presentation on the subject of Online Ethics and Safety at COMDEX Chicago
- 1983 – Collaborated with U.K. Scotland Yard on use of Teletext in law enforcement and crime reporting
- 1986 – Presented paper about online safety at West Coast Computer Faire, San Francisco California
- 1987 – Presented use of improved computer-based crime data collecting to police departments around the United States as an officer of BLOC Development Corporation (the founding name of TigerDirect) based upon the company's FormTool software
- 1988 – Presented papers on the use of computer data gathering techniques for law enforcement at the American Forms Management Association annual meeting
- 1988 – Trained U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation on customized computer-based data gathering techniques
- 1990 – Co-authored one of the first Anti-Viral software products while at BLOC Development called "PopDrop"
- 1991 – Began observing scams through an AOL Group/Forum/Chat Room about Scams on AOL – converted to Romance Scams about 1993 – founded by Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. (PC Industry Pioneer – Research Engineer at original Atari Inc. and co-founder of TigerDirect)
- 1995 – Added anti-scam information under Webmasters page on TigerDirect.com (Dr. McGuinness was a co-founder, officer, and webmaster for TigerDirect)
- 1995 – Dr. McGuinness created the first online dating website called Date.com – was owned by TigerDirect and discontinued
- 1996 – TigerDirect (Dr. McGuinness) was a contributor to the language of the U.S. Communications Decency Act Section 230 – to allow for User Generated Content Online (with vast unforeseen consequences)
- 1996 – Began reporting scammers to U.S. Federal Agencies
- 1997 – Began tracking and reporting on "ICQ" scammers worldwide
- 1997 – TigerDirect (Dr. McGuinness) was a contributor to the language of the U.S. Children's Online Privacy & Protection Act (COPPA)
- 1998 – Spun out to separate website under McGuinnessOnline.com [now defunct]
- 1998 – Began reporting to European Police Agencies
- 2000 – Created Separate Scams Related Website (first use of brand)
- 2001 – Dr. McGuinness helped Netherlands authorities break up terrorist scam group in Holland – triggering a more urgent recognition of global scamming problem
- 2003 – Launched First Generation of RomanceScamsNow.com
- 2005 – Dr. McGuinness developed a process for scam & nudity screening for MySpace – services available for Dating sites screening also but rejected by Dating Industry
- 2005 – Launched Content Compliance Council – standards body for Social Media & Dating Website Industry
- 2006 – Began large scale harvesting of scammers on dating websites
- 2006 – Dr. McGuinness' company offers scammer detection and clean-out service commercially to dating websites – ultimately rejected by industry
- 2007 – Launched Second Generation RomanceScamsNow.com
- 2012 – Website massively attacked by African & Russian hackers and shut down during hacker war against our website because of exposure of scammers & frauds
- 2013 – New RSN website launched RomanceScamsNow.com
- 2013 – Expanded Social Media pages / accounts begun
- 2014 – Romance Scams Now named Expert Witness in $1.5 Billion Dollar lawsuit against Match.com (case was ultimately dropped)
- 2014 – RSN has social media pages, groups, or profiles on: Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, MySpace, Instagram, Pintrest, Google+, LinkedIn, Skype, DeviantArt, VK
- 2014 – Works with the parent company to create a Scam Data Clearinghouse "GOFCH" with the idea of distributing data to dating websites and social media services and government entities.
- 2015 – RSN passes 4,000,000 visitors (in 3 years) and highest trafficked U.S. anti-scam website
- 2015 – Develops link between Romance Scams and Addiction
- 2015 – Launches marketing program "Campaign Against Online Fraud" to educate consumers of risks
- 2015 – Works with other NGOs to help launch SCARS – the Society of Citizens Against Romance Scams (named changed in late 2018)
- 2016 – RSN releases the only Scam Victim Recovery Program – it is offered free to all here
- 2016 – RSN offers 10 separate scam related support groups on Facebook supporting hundreds of scam victims
- 2016 – Launches Boyati Miskun Foundation to help prevent scam victim suicides
- 2016 – RSN added Minds.com to it's social media coverage
- 2016 – RSN is a founding member with 10 other Anti-scam Groups from 13 counties on the Ethics in Scam Reporting Project
- 2016 – With other Scam Data Clearinghouses in Europe & Asia forms the Committee for Data Standards in Scam Reporting [CODS] to finalize the SCARS Anti-Scam Data Reporting Network and take live
- 2016 – RSN becomes formal Member Organization of the Society of Citizens Against Romance Scams along with dozens of other professional anti-scam groups, professionals, individuals, and members of the U.S. Government
- 2016 – RSN transfers to SCARS the Boyati Miskun Foundation and the Campaign Against Online Fraud
- 2017 – Acquired by the Society of Citizens Against Romance Scams [SCARS] to be their official Scam Avoidance Educational and Scam Victims' Assistance & Support Division – becomes SCARS
- 2017 – Closed Las Vegas Nevada office, shifting to Miami offices
- 2018 – SCARS opens SCARS|China
- 2018 – SCARS adds new Board Members Mr. L. Tshua from Singapore and Ms. S. Zhang from China
- 2018 – SCARS filed for re-registration to become a full tax-exempt nonprofit corporation
- 2019 – SCARS re-registration completed with incorporation now in the State of Delaware as a tax-exempt nonprofit corporation the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
- 2019 – SCARS is now a charitable nonprofit corporation registered in the state of Delaware U.S.A.
- 2019 – SCARS goes to the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas to meet with tech industry titans for dialog about scams and scammers – met with great success
- 2019 – SCARS awarded special recognition by the Consumer Electronics Show for outstanding work as a nonprofit in raising public awareness about online dangers
- 2019 – U.S. Government shutdown delays SCARS' final 501(C)(3) status
- 2019 – Jackie Corbett, Debby Mongomery, Elina Juusola Ph.D., and others, nominated to SCARS Board of Directors to be finalized on February 15
- 2019 – SCARS formally establishes new Advisory Board with Board Members to be finalized during the annual Board of Director's Meeting on February 15
Legal Stuff:
The contents of this website and extended social media pages is a scholarly work for non-profit educational purposes in the subjects of geography and social studies. Presented FREE to students, teachers & educators, and the public in the interest of developing awareness of the subject and in helping to preserve our common global heritage. Some content is original, some public domain, some provided by visitors, some content used under "Fair Use" provision of section 107 U.S. Copyright Law. Some content from third-parties. All third-party copyrights acknowledged. Sources credited where possible or known. If we have not correctly credited a source – please let us know. All original works are copyright by the published of this website and related social media pages – all right reserved worldwide.
Scammer Grammar™, Act Against Scams™, Say No To Scams™, Boyati Miskun Foundation™, SCARS™, Society of Citizens Against Romance Scams™, Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams™, SCARS™, RSN™, Romance Scams Now™, SCARS|CDN™, SCARS Cybercrime Data Network™, SCARS|China™, SCARS|UK™, SCARS|Worldwide™, SCARS|Global™, SCARS|GOFCH™, in any form, are all trademarks of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Incorporated. PerfectReputations®, McGuinnessPublishing™, WebFossil®, and MentalWard® are registered trademarks of their respective holders. This website and unique content is Copyright © 2009-2019 the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Incorporated. All Rights Reserved Worldwide and WebWide. Images of private individuals are presented because they were believed to have been used in criminal activities, and we ARE NOT stating or implying that the persons depicted are involved in any way other than being victims themselves unless otherwise indicated.
Stuff our lawyers say we have to say: You use this website as is, and we make no warranties about its function, behavior, content, or accuracy. You use this website at your own risk. By using this website, you agree to hold harmless the publisher, their staff and principals, the design guys, the content peeps, the hosting company, and Bob the Water Delivery Guy. In short, if you don't like it or it doesn't work the way you think it should go away – we'll miss you though! For more legal information please view our Privacy Policy and our Terms & Conditions. Your use of this website also means you agree to allow the use of Cookies.
Important Pages:
Contact The RSN Team
- Email: email@example.com
- Address: 9737 NW 41st Street, Suite 530, Doral Florida 33178 USA
- Phone: NOT DISPLAYED – However, if you are in crisis? Do you need to talk to someone now? Call 1-800-273-8255
Unsolicited email, regular mail, or phone communications without authorization may be a violation of applicable law. Spam emails received will be considered scams and added to our Scammer Email Database.


text:
Hi all,
the new gvSIG Mobile, the open source GIS application for field data
has been released.
The new gvSIG Mobile is
based on Geopaparazzi, and was born with the aim of having a
mobile GIS application for professionals, having different tools
that facilitate its integration with the rest of the gvSIG
Suite. For example, it has a data importer and exporter from/to
gvSIG Online. Besides, the next version of gvSIG Desktop will
include a plugin that will allow data dumping between both
With this new version it
will be possible to carry out census or inventories, update or
audit information and all of that integrated with the SDI. You
can gather field data, edit existing data, attach images, notes
or sketches to geolocated elements, etc. Without forgetting the
ability to have forms that make gathering easier.
All the information about
documentation for users and developers, videos, etc. will be
included at the project website [2].
We hope that you enjoy it!
[1] https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.gvsig.gvsigmobile
[2] http://www.gvsig.com/en/products/gvsig-mobile
Language and Communication Manager. gvSIG Association
de Formación, Internacionalización y Difusión. Asociación

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Shain's Cell phone
Please leave a message
Debbie & Shain fell in love with each other at the cabin. Shain's grandparents built the cabin just next door and met Debbie there in early 2012. On March 7th of 2015 Debbie and Shain got married at the cabin with only close relatives and a couple friends. We hosted a potluck style wedding and with the river running in the background it was such a wonderful and surreal time for them.
The cabin is a very special place for Debbie and Shain. They now live at the Cabin and Shain works in Payson full time. Debbie works at home from the cabin. Debbie currently works with University of Phoenix and ASU. Shain works for Anderson Merchandizers. Currently they are spending time cleaning and repairing and recently just finished a complete remodel on an apartment they also rent out to couples.
They own property in San Diego they rent out. They are really not sure were they will settle, if at all. But the EVRC is such a special place for them you will be able to find them there from time to time as weekenders themselves. Thanks for visiting.
Please Tour our property by visiting this link:
Read about where Water Wheel got its name here!
Walk on the Elk Trail
Bathroom Remodel pics
2014 Arizona Fish & Game Trout Stocking Schedule
New bridge construction on the river
Water Flow on East Verde River ceased for season 2014
Carl & the peanut
Happy Hoidays & Merry Christmas!!!
2015 Trout Stocking Schedule updated
C.C. Cragin Operations & The East Verde River
Tonto Natural Bridge Pinic


text:
You attempted to reference a method or property that is not supported by this object. Not all objects support all actions.
To correct this error
Check the properties and methods to ensure there were no typing errors.
See the object's documentation for more information.
See Also
ReferenceCreateObject Function
GetObject Function


text: Nick Sisley - November 03, 2010 Muzzle Speed Match the pace of the target, then fire. By Nick Sisley When you set up on a clay target, you already know: 1) where the target is going to come from, 2) where to place the muzzle, 3) where to look for the bird initially, and 4) where you are going to break the clay. For your best chance of smashing that clay, you should know all four of the above. It's a little difficult know all four on any given duck or goose shooting situation, but it is a shooting philosophy worth thinking about.Let's talk ducks. Is the shot at a bird coming into the decoys -- lowering and then extending its feet to plummet even faster? Or is the duck crossing in front, say from left to right? Or how about an escapee for the second shot, quartering away from left to right? Since we are talking real ducks and not clay targets, Nos. 1 and 3 above are already defined. You already know 1) where the duck came from and pretty much where it is going, plus 3) you are already looking at the duck, hopefully with an intense stare at its head. So only Nos. 2 and 4 are left: 2) where you are going to place the muzzle and 4) where you are going to kill the duck. Muzzle speed comes into play. Many excellent shotgun shooters come from behind, pulling the trigger as the muzzle overtakes the target. Such folks are known as swing-through shooters, and I've seldom shot with an experienced swing-through shooter who wasn't an excellent duck shot. That said, I know most shooters tend to be of the sustained or maintained lead persuasion. Of course, experienced shooters are able to kill ducks both ways.But let's say you are a sustained lead-type shooter like most of us. The idea is to be in front of the bird, more or less, depending upon the duck's speed, angle and distance -- right from the beginning. Again, this is where muzzle speed matters. Let's call it "controlled muzzle speed." The idea I'm promoting is to match muzzle speed with duck speed. How do we accomplish that? It's not easy, so I suggest you practice the concept on clay targets. To make these suggestions easier to understand, let's use the imaginary face of a clock. Check the accompanying illustrations. You, the shooter, are at the six o'clock position. I'll outline several scenarios incorporating this shooting philosophy.Quartering ShotThe quartering shot has the target flying from seven o'clock to one o'clock. Again, you are shooting from the six o'clock position. This bird does not require much lead, so let me suggest you give the target a 1-inch lead. Of course, I'm talking 1-inch at the muzzle to the bird. The 1-inch lead gives you a helpful reference, so bear with me.Set up to practice this shot on clay targets. Don't start with a long bird. Start with a bird you break at 20 to 25 yards. With a new concept like this, you have to walk before you can run, so forget 50-yard practice initially. The setup is the quartering bird flying from seven o'clock to one o'clock. Or, if necessary, set up a clay bird flying from five o'clock to eleven o'clock. Set up your muzzle position so when the clay comes out and you start your move, and when the gun mount is completed, the muzzle will be 1-inch in front. Keep that muzzle 1-inch in front briefly, and then quickly pull the trigger.What you have done when successfully making this shot is match muzzle speed with bird speed. Use the same approach on a quartering-away duck: get the muzzle 1-inch in front, match muzzle speed with bird speed briefly, and then hit the trigger. Because it is probably a new concept to most of you, it will pay to practice on clay birds.Deep Quartering ShotMany of the ducks we shoot at are flying from eight o'clock to two o'clock. Let's call it a "deep quartering shot." You can set up this type of shot on a clay target course as well. Give the target 2 to 3 inches of lead at 20 to 25 yards. Your muzzle position is critical -- as the clay comes out and you mount the gun, you want to be 2 to 3 inches in front. In a real duck situation, it is a bit different because you already see the bird. But if it's a deep quartering duck, just get the muzzle 2 to 3 inches in front, allow yourself a brief time to match muzzle speed with target speed, and then hit the trigger.Full Crossing ShotLet's go to a full crossing shot, a duck that flies from nine o'clock to three o'clock. As the clay comes out, insert the muzzle 3 to 4 inches in front, match muzzle speed to target speed, and hit the trigger. Now you have a reference point of how many inches at the muzzle to lead most any duck shot you are going to see: 1-inch for a quartering bird, 2 to 3 inches for a deep quartering bird, 3 to 4 inches for a full crossing bird. All will work on a clay target or a duck at 20 to 25 yards -- standard range for decoying ducks.At longer ranges, don't worry on the quartering bird -- within a reasonable distance, the 1-inch lead will still work. With a deep quartering or full crossing shot, more lead will be required, but don't worry about how much until you practice all three shots at 20 to 25 yards. The key is matching muzzle speed with target speed. Any time you don't, you are going to be racing the muzzle to catch up or be too far out in front and have to slow down or stop. Either means it is going to be very tough to make the shot successfully. If you are too far in front, the shot string is going to go in front of the bird. Practicing what I'm suggesting will cause a light to go off in your head. You have finally figured out what it takes to lead various duck shooting angles. It doesn't matter how fast or slow the duck is moving. As long as you match muzzle speed with target speed, the system works.A duck coming to the decoys is moving downward. Such a shot is simply a crossing shot in a different direction. So shoot just like you would a duck flying from nine o'clock to three o'clock. Insert the muzzle three to four-inches in front -- in this case, below -- match muzzle speed with duck speed and hit the trigger. You can practice this shot on a sporting clays course. Don't forget, however, that a clay target is really going to accelerate the more it falls. A duck won't. So to practice properly for this shot, don't let the clay fall too far before breaking it.Focus on the TargetPossible problems? Shotgunning shooting is a visual game. To ensure your chances for success, you have to look at the target. I mean really look. Zero in on the duck's head. Because I've given you various leads in inches, many of you are going to have a tendency to check the lead to see if it really is 1-inch -- or whatever distance. Don't do that. Stay locked on the target or duck with your eyes. You will see the proper lead with your peripheral vision. Match muzzle speed with target speed and then immediately upon doing it, hit the trigger. If you don't pull the trigger as soon as muzzle speed matches bird speed you will probably keep riding the bird farther than necessary. Practically every time that happens, you will take your eye off the duck and look at the muzzle to check the lead. If you do it even for a fraction of a second, your muzzle speed will slow and no longer match the duck's speed. And you'll miss.Nick Sisley can be contacted at firstname.lastname@example.com. GET THE NEWSLETTER Join the List and Never Miss a Thing. Sign Me Up


text:
Concord Lytelab
This spotlight is designed for areas with high-ceilings and features a unique adjustable and lockable Fresnel lens, which allows the beam angle to adjust from 14 to 45 degrees.
Lytelab provides significant energy savings due to its total power consumption being just 45W. Lytelab contains high powered Sharp LEDs, which have an impressive output of 800 Lux at five metres. Ensuring energy and cost efficiency, the Lytelab comes with on-board DALI track dimming, resulting in quicker ROI. Lytelab has 50,000 hours of life at 70% luminous flux, providing a maintenance-free solution.
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text:
Get the Link to This Publication
You can copy and paste this link into any site, or bookmark it online or offline with any service.
- Done
- Details
- Description
- Published by:
- Michael Bojkowski
- Published:
- 1/22/2016
- Specs:
Standard / 8.25" x 10.75"24 pages Saddle-stitched
- Category:
- Lifestyle
- Tags:
This issue of Line feed Magazine looks at the year 2015 and all the things that made it worth remembering. All the magazines, TV series, music, cinema and more. Visit @linefeed for updates and keep an eye open for the #allthethings2015 hashtag.


text:
We often hear the words "So, you manage customer feedback therefore you are a market research company?" No, Feedback Ferret is not in the business of providing market research. We are providers of customer insight. But what is the difference between the two?
Let's start with some basic definitions:
To better demonstrate the difference, below are two very similar looking surveys but you can see from the questions, the market research survey asks the "WHAT" and the customer insight surveys asks the WHY?
Sample market research survey:
Sample customer insight survey:
Let us give an example of how customer insights work in practice:
One of Feedback Ferret's automotive clients undertakes regular customer surveys with their Service clients and was keen to dig deeper into the reasons behind the lower Net Promoter Scores (NPS). By diving deep into the survey results, Feedback Ferret found that surveys containing comments about "oil change" were often from customers very ready to defect from either the brand or dealer, and the customer's propensity to recommend the dealer.
So why was this? Further customer insight was required. It was only by digging deeper into the verbatim comments that the following issues were uncovered:
As a result of this customer insight and analysis, the following recommendations were made to our client:
This is real customer insight, not market research. And it's insight that, if acted upon, can really make a positive difference to the customer experience.
Here are some further differences between market research and market insight – all food for thought:
In conclusion, research tells us WHAT is happening whereas insight tells us WHY it is happening. More importantly, insight helps us understand what to do about it to increase customer satisfaction, customer loyalty and help boost the bottom line.
Both are equally important elements of any business but if we are to create solutions to problems, we need deeper and more actionable customer insight.


text:
Status Update | Update 1.2 Fixes: Wave 1
Fixes for Update 1.2 are on their way -- and the first wave of them has arrived! I have gone through and updated all of my non-legacy skin packs to fix the issue which caused textures to incorrectly render in battle. These updates apply to the following mods:
*Important Note: If you currently have previous versions of either the Chinese Military Green or Brown Drab packs installed, then you will need to uninstall the old version before updating, as the mod has been migrated to .wotmod format.
Currently, I am planning to roll out these updates in three waves. The first, which is already out (shown above), focuses on fixes for my skin packs, while the second (next) wave will focus on fixing my vehicle skins and mods / remodels, as they are also in need of updates (both in order to fix the rendering issues mentioned above and to bring the vehicles' XML scripts up-to-date with to the current versions [as they have since been changed rather extensively]). The third (and final) wave will focus on new releases and content updates, but that will happen a bit later.
For now, hope you enjoy! If you happen to encounter any bugs, let me know and I'll have a go at squashing them. Thanks for your patience, and stay tuned for waves 2 - 3!
P.S.: For a full list of changes, check out the Github pages for each pack. I will be posting a full set of Update Notes after the next wave is released, so that everything will be in one place.


text:
Mercedes' Marvellous Mondays… Center Parcs Woburn Forest Adventure…
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/MercedesPrunty/
Twitter – @MercedesPrunty
The sun was beaming down, and it was only 8am, the leather seats in my car where burning my bum and the sun was shining in my eyes as I drove down the M1 and also onto the M25 (Sunglasses were a must on that day), yet my spirits were high… It was our first ever, proper family holiday! My hubby booked the holiday as a treat for us, as we had been through a difficult few months and well actually few years, and knew we needed some time away as a family and he chose Center Parcs in Woburn forest as he had read brilliant reviews about the place. We were soon to find out if the reviews were wrong or right.
We arrived around 10.25am, a whole five minutes quicker than the Satnav had predicted. We drove down a small traffic coned lane which led us to a small wooden hut like building which reminded me of the McDonalds drive through, a lovely woman named Zoe greeted us, handed us a map of the parc and gave us two bands to wear like watches around our wrists… These would become our life line at the parc, they acted as house key, payment device for much needed coffee in the swimming area and also for us to get lockers at the pool.
As our lodge wasn't ready till 2pm we decided to check out the swimming facilities first, the 'Tropical Swimming Paradise' area soon became our daily routine and we went there almost every day of our holiday. The changing rooms were super clean, nothing like the local pools which tend to look a little grimy once people have been swimming, but this place was like a palace. A man on a machine was going around every so often cleaning away the soggy watered floor, the changing rooms were immaculate, and the family ones were so family friendly, they were a lot bigger than normal family cubicles, and even my hubby with his dodgy leg had room to change with us. After we showered we entered the pool area, which like the name suggests was very much a tropical paradise! A wave of tropical warmth hit us, the sun shone down through the huge almost green house like building. Everywhere we looked were huge trees, ferns and greenery which had been planted, it even trailed up the walls up wooden trellises giving the whole area a jungle like feel to it. In the pool building there were actually 6 areas you could go to: First up a toddler friendly area with small slides, fake beach looking sand tiles, a small watery seated area for the kids to splash in and toilets (Obviously the toilets were not in the pool as such but through a door near it). Then there was an area for bigger kids with what looked like a ship wrecked pirate ship with bigger and much wetter slides, a huge bucket that tipped every few minutes and that shocked unsuspecting parents that happened to be standing underneath it and cemented in place water guns which the kids tried to fight their parents with. Next was a wave pool which every half an hour gave a jungle call and the waves began to splash for a few minutes. My husbands favourite part was the relaxing hooped area where you jumped inside huge rubber rings and let a fake current sway you down a fake river. My favourite part was the outside pool which included a rapids ride, it literally had the force of a real rapid river and flowed you off downstream until it ended in a pool at the end. The last part which none of us went on because it was HUGE was the waterslide area for bigger kids and adults. The slide for this started at least four stories up and the slide actually left the building in a hoop on the outside before splashing back down to Earth… I sooooo wasn't brave enough for that. Inside the Tropical Paradise is also a much needed and appreciate 'Starbucks' coffee shop, which is where you can use your wristband to buy coffee and food from. I have to admit, we did become 'Starbucks' addicts over the course of this holiday.
After swimming for hours and turning into prunes we headed out for lunch and to our lodge. The place we went for our first food outing was 'Café Rouge' which although the food was delicious, the staff were less desirable… But this became the only place on the whole holiday where the staff were not up to scratch. We were, I admit greeted by a happy fellow who sat us down and made the kids laugh but from then on the food date went sour. It took three attempts and asking three different members of rather grumpy staff to get an apple juice for my youngest, by the time it came she was so thirsty it was gone in seconds, the same also happened for ketchup for my eldest who wanted it with her burger and wouldn't eat without it. Then came the first food bill and Wowsers did my jaw drop! Hence, we did not go back to that one…
2pm arrived and we headed off to our lodge (We paid a little extra to be able to go to it at 2pm and not 3pm which was a great idea as the small roads became unmovable at 3pm but people soon moved for me and my car… Haha, don't worry it's not a posh car or anything, in fact it's far from it, but my breaks were hot and screaming that day, so most people ducked for cover as I came along, all of them wondering what machine beast was attacking them). Plus, they only allow you to use your car when unloading on your first day and on leaving day, for the rest of the week your car is a no, no. Anyway, back to the lodge, ours was number 776, and was beautiful. The outside was a proper wooden cabin which my husband has always said he wanted to live in, 'A cabin in the woods'. But the outside to me was nothing compared to the inside, which was spacious, modern and decorated to my high standards (Plus it was bigger than our house!) The girls immediately went to explore their bedroom which came with its own en-suit, I went to explore ours and jumped on the huge bed which was super comfy. The kitchen came equipped with everything you could need, plates, cups, wine glasses, kettle, sink… DISHWASHER… OMG YES!!! No washing up for me on this holiday. We were so pleased with the lodge and decided to spend the rest of the day there and ordered in pizza and wine and whilst we ate we were greeted with nature at our backdoor, we had two ducks, a squirrel and a Hedgehog.
So, I've told you all about the swimming which became a daily thing but alongside swimming there were many, many more activities and adventures to do and take the kids on but it's not all about the kids, they had grown up activities too. The one activity I found the best for 'us' adults was the SPA. My lovely hubby went and booked me in for a back, shoulder and neck massage for half an hour which at £49 I found to be quite reasonable (As I went for a Thai massage once and it cost around £99, so this was a bargain). So, let me tell you all about the Spa, which was called 'Aqua Sana'. The rest of Center Parcs is one huge outdoor adventure centre but in here it was like a different place altogether. You walk in and are greeted with a warmed dressing gown which you must change into bar your undies (I got to keep those on) the changing room was warm and clean and there were hundreds of lockers to keep personal stuff safe and although they have a no phones rule I managed to take mine in (My daughter is Epileptic and I wanted make sure I could be contacted in an emergency by my hubby) and they were more than happy to accommodate that for me, plus I got some wicked pics. After changing you leave the changing room and come out to a huge spiral staircase full of light and bamboo looking sticks decorating the walls then head up to the treatment waiting room. This room was calm and beautiful, with comfy seats, dimmed colourful lighting and orchid flowers along with gentle relaxing music that played in the background. I was soon called in by my beauty therapist 'Kat', who took me to a treatment room which smelt amazing with all the essential oils out for me to test before she began the treatment. The massage I had was brilliant, she knew exactly where my body held tension which is all around my neck where I lean over to write all the time and she proper worked all of it out (So much so even my hubby commented on how my posture was a little straighter than normal). After my much appreciated massage she took me to a 'Candlelit relaxation room', which was peaceful and calm and full of… You guessed it… Candles. This room was lovely and when it came time to leave I was a little disappointed, I wanted to stay there for ages and chillax, I should have taken a book! So that was my little treat and I adored it, but what was my husbands treat? Going on the lake on a pedal boat… He loves water and wanted to go across their small lake, and wow did he make me work, I pedalled for ages (He did too but I know I worked harder than him haha).
So, I have told you all about swimming, the lodge, what is good for us adults but what did my kids do and enjoy the most? My youngest's favourite activity was pony riding which lucky for us was right outside our lodge and then they went for a walk around the parc. The girls and guy who looked after the ponies were extremely friendly and chatted to us as we walked alongside them and told us all about their ponies. My eldest's favourite activity was the mini Land Rovers, she felt so grown up driving her own car and she bombed it around the track and picked up driving fairly quickly… she also thought that she could then drive us home, but I said how different Motorway driving is to a small dirt track, but I appreciated her offer.
Some of the other activities we took part in were: Pottery Painting, Face Painting, Build-A-Bear, Bowling, Shopping, visiting the outdoor and also indoor playparks and eating! And speaking of eating, our favourite restaurant was Hucks, an American diner. The food and the service there was amazing and the portions were American sized too, and you definitely got what you paid for. There were loads of other activities that we couldn't do yet due to the kids being too small or they didn't want to do such as: Tree climbing, Zip wire, Rock Climbing, Adventure golf, Archery, Crossbows, Laser guns and so on… But when we go again, those I think will be next on our list.
My conclusion for Center Parcs Woburn Forest… AMAZING!!! The whole holiday was awesome and when it came to be coming home we were all a little depressed and even now, two weeks later we wish we were still there. I will say that Center Parcs is expensive but it does make some fantastic memories, memories that you cannot get unless you bite the bullet and go for it. So, if your thinking of doing it, I would say… Book it now!


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10 Misconception about Weight Loss Surgery
We often hear dismissing and various misconceptions about weight loss surgery. We decided to gather more information and help you better understand what is fact and what is fiction when it comes to weight loss surgery.
People who go through bariatric surgery regain the weight back
According to the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric surgery, ASMBS, 50 % of patients may regain 5% of weight two years or more after the surgery. This does not mean all the weight taken off the patient will come back. If patients keep up a healthy lifestyle of consistent diet and exercise they will have the ability to prevent large amounts of weight from reappearing. This statement really depends on the patient's ability and motivation to be able to prevent this from happening.
Weight Loss surgery is a cure for obesity
This is not fully true. As mentioned before some patients may regain some weight after surgery, depending on their lifestyle choices. Weight Loss surgery is not a cure for obesity but a step necessary to take to help with long-term weight loss. After surgery, the only way to prevent the weight from coming back includes diet, exercise, and adjustments to your previous lifestyle. You can gain weight if you keep up an unhealthy lifestyle.
Bariatric patients are prone to serious health issues due to deficiencies
Patients who undergo bariatric surgery do experience an inability to absorb certain nutrients due to their reconstructed digestive system. Dependent on the type of procedure some patients have an increased risk for nutritional deficiencies. Doctors are well aware of this and immediately assign patients a diet paired with supplementation to prevent any health issues from occurring. Patients will be given lists of vitamins and minerals to be taken. If patients follow their doctor's and nutritionist's instructions, there will not be any development of life-threatening health issues after surgery. Fortunately, here on Bariatric Lifestyle Diet, we sell bariatric-friendly vitamins and supplements you need before and after weight loss surgery.
Surgery will leave behind unsightly scars
This all depends on the type of procedure is done will scars be seen. For example, there are three types of surgical procedures that are conducted: single-incision laparoscopic surgery, multi-port laparoscopic surgery, and open surgery.
If your procedure is performed under single-incision laparoscopic surgery, you will have a small scar hidden in your belly button. This is becoming most popular due in the medical world because it does not leave behind unsightly scars.
In multi-port laparoscopic surgery, about four to five scars can be seen across the abdomen. Open surgery results in a large scar across the abdomen, this is done only for emergency surgery and not considered in simple weight loss procedures. These procedures do leave behind scars but with proper maintenance and incision care instructions, the scars can fade. If you follow your health care professionals care advice, scars will not be a worry after weight loss surgery.
People with obesity don't need surgery, just diet, and exercise
Many people believe diet and exercise is the answer to losing excess weight, but it is more difficult for those who are clinically obese. The weight their body cares can become harmful to their health and can make it difficult for them to exercise. According to an interview with LA Times, clinical psychologist Christopher N Ochner said: "the average adult with sustained obesity has less than a 1 % chances of retaining and maintaining a healthy body weight without surgery."
Undergoing weight loss surgery like gastric sleeves or bypasses also allows your body to limit the intake of food and focus on stored fats as energy. This allows weight loss to occur and eventually patients will reach their ideal weight goal. It is much harder for obese patients to lose weight without surgery to kick-start the process.
Patients can only drink their food from then on
Only for a short period will patients have to follow a liquid diet. After completing bariatric surgery, your internal wounds need time to recover and solid foods will only irritate the process. Drinking water, consuming liquid protein, protein shakes and meal replacement shakes are ideal for your body to absorb nutrients without irritating your stomach. Upon receiving the okay from your bariatric doctor will you be able to slowly begin to merge more solid foods. Eventually, you will be able to eat a piece of chicken and more hearty meals.
You are unable to have children after
It is often recommended to patients to not have children immediately following weight loss surgery. Your body is still recovering from surgery and needs time to sustain weight loss before adding another human into it. Another reason it is not recommended is due to your body's inability to absorb certain nutrients and its dependency to oral supplementation. If your body cannot naturally create nutrients for itself, it cannot give the nutrients necessary to sustain a healthy pregnancy. Doctors generally recommending a two-year wait to allow your body to adjust and revert back to normal functionality. The idea that having weight loss surgery means no babies at all is not true, just wait a little while before having one.
Bariatric surgery is a dangerous procedure
This procedure is done all too often for it to be dangerous. According to Bariatric Surgery Source, weight loss surgery has a 99.9% survival rate. Remaining obese is more of a health risk than undergoing weight loss surgery. The idea that it is a dangerous procedure is just your fears getting to you. If you have any questions about your weight loss procedure, speak with your bariatric physician. Not only will they give you every detail, but will make sure you understand it is a safe procedure that has many benefits.
All patients will experience dumping syndrome
This only occurs in patients who do not follow their recommended diet portions or plan. Dumping syndrome occurs when food moves too fast from the stomach to the small intestines. This occurs often when patients eat sugary foods, have fluids with their meals, and eat too large portions. It can happen anywhere between 30 minutes to three hours after a meal. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, sweating, dizziness, and irregular heartbeat. Not everyone will experience dumping syndrome so long as they follow their recommended diet plan.
Patients become raging alcoholics
Bariatric patients are advised to avoid alcoholic beverage after surgery, especially during a rapid weight loss period. After surgery alcohol sensitivity heightens and fewer drinks are needed to feel the effects of alcohol. According to the ASMBS, most but not all patients who abuse alcohol after surgery had problems with drinking beforehand. Only a small amount bariatric patients have reported issues with alcohol consumption after surgery.
If you ever have any other questions about bariatric surgery or feel you need to weight loss surgery always consult your physician to see what is the best option for you.


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As rumor mill swirls, it's time to ask: What makes sense for SEC?
Whether or not Texas A&M ultimately joins the SEC, the scenario I once scoffed at is suddenly becoming very real. It could perhaps be finalized as soon as Monday, when A&M regents will be meeting. Though if we learned anything from last summer's realignment madness, it's that this stuff rarely plays out exactly as first reported.
All those premature "done deals" played a part in my cautious skepticism when the latest rumors heated up, but more so, something about the A&M story has always seemed a little bit ... off. It's not that A&M's budding crush on the SEC doesn't make sense. It most certainly does. For one thing, it never really wore off after last summer, when the league was set to invite the Aggies and Oklahoma if the Big 12 imploded. For another, the appeal of escaping big brother Texas' shadow seemed to intensify tenfold when ESPN's attempts to televise high-school games and Big 12 contests on The Longhorn Network went public this summer.
The part that has never jibed with reality is the assumption that the SEC is equally fixated on A&M despite the fact that no one of import in the SEC has said a word to that effect publicly. It also doesn't fit with Mike Slive's repeated assertions last year that the league would only entertain expansion in the event of a major "paradigm shift" on the conference landscape. Even if that was a smokescreen, adding A&M by itself doesn't seem like a Slive move. Sure, all those Texas television sets are appealing. They'd certainly ensure renegotiated television contracts (currently worth $205 million a year), which would push the league back ahead of the Pac-12's recent $250-million-a-year deals. But it's not like the SEC is hurting for money, and it's not like the Pac-12's cash influx represents some tangible threat to the SEC's current dominance.
It hardly seems worth diluting the best on-field product in college football today for a few extra millions, which is exactly what the SEC would be doing in welcoming A&M, a program that last won a national title in 1939 (five different SEC schools have won one just in the BCS era) and has rarely even contended for a Big 12 title (winning its sole crown 13 years ago). Since the Big 12 began in 1996, the Aggies have won 106 games, which would tie them for seventh-best in the SEC over the same time period. Would the SEC reconfigure for a seventh-place team?
But think back to SEC Media Days last month. Slive mostly reiterated the same stance on expansion while on the podium, but in a later side conversation with reporters he made this eyebrow-raising remark: "I could get to 16 [teams] in 15 minutes." If the nation's premier football conference is really about to invite Texas A&M, it's likely as part of a grander plan.
In line with that thinking, Matt Hayes of the Sporting Newsquoted a high-ranking SEC source Thursday night saying any expansion would likely be to 14, not 13 teams.
Going to 14 or 16 makes more sense, since it would be incredibly risky for the conference to mess with one of its most compelling attributes: the symmetry of its two generally balanced divisions, which helped turn the SEC Championship Game into a marquee event. That said, Oklahoma is no longer interested in the SEC (it's not as threatened by The Longhorn Network and will likely remain tied to Texas and Oklahoma State), and the two schools Hayes mentioned as additional candidates, Missouri and Virginia Tech, aren't particularly sexy.
But then on Friday, longtime Florida State beat writer Tom D'Angelo of The Palm Beach Post reported that FSU officials "have been flirting with the SEC for several months" and that "the discussion is now getting more serious, according to sources." FSU President Eric Barron downplayed the rumors Friday, and these types of nebulous stories often generate far more buzz than may actually be merited. But I have to say: Adding Florida State would most definitely be a Slive move.
Obviously, the SEC already owns Florida's television markets, but much like the Big Ten's addition of Nebraska (and its meager 1.8 million population), this would be more about adding a brand-name program that attracts viewers nationally. A&M brings the massive Dallas and Houston TV markets, and FSU brings a whole new set of marquee TV games.
But conventional wisdom says that officials at Florida (and perhaps even Georgia, Alabama and Auburn, too) would try to block FSU's addition for recruiting reasons. And maybe this whole thing really is about TV sets. In that case, it may well be that Virginia Tech (Washington D.C./Virginia) and Missouri (St. Louis/Kansas City) are next in line. But Virginia Tech officials preemptively shot down potential SEC overtures Friday. And would Slive really go after a school (Mizzou) that his arch-rival Jim Delany deemed unworthy last summer? There's also been speculation about North Carolina, but considering the football program's current NCAA imbroglio, that would be a risky move for a conference that's struggled to clean up its own act.
None of these schools make perfect sense for the SEC. But if A&M to the SEC is as inevitable as is currently being portrayed, it's almost certain at least one of them will be following the Aggies.
I was dead wrong about realignment being done for the near future. The SEC's potential seventh-place program may soon set off more dominoes than we saw fall a year ago.


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(Photo: Betsy Nelson)
There was a time when Brussels sprouts were reviled by kids and adults alike. No longer. Brussels sprouts have been on trendy restaurant menus for years now, and some folks even refer to them as "the new comfort food."
That's great news for all of us because these miniature cabbages are nutritional powerhouses. A member of the cruciferous family, which is known for its cancer-fighting power, Brussels sprouts are loaded with vitamins and minerals and have a high antioxidant quotient.
Looking for a Cleanse-friendly recipe for Brussels? Try this Thai-inspired dish, which comes together in a flash.
Brussels Sprouts Coconut Curry
Nourishing bone broth and warming spices make this a comforting dish for all. Turmeric adds a beautiful golden color to the broth and is a strong anti-inflammatory. Works beautifully with added protein, such as grass-fed beef, organic chicken, and wild-caught fish.
- 1 lime
- 1 T. coconut oil
- 1 tsp. cumin seeds
- ¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup sliced shallot
- 1 tsp. ground turmeric or 1 T. fresh grated turmeric root
- 1 T. fresh grated ginger
- 12 oz. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (about 3 cups)
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 8 oz. organic chicken bone broth, grass-fed beef bone broth, or vegetable broth
- Sea salt to taste
Using a vegetable peeler, peel the zest of the lime in one large continuous strip. Cut the peeled lime into wedges for serving.
Heat coconut oil in a medium saucepan over moderate heat. Add the cumin seeds and toast for 1 minute. Add the black pepper and shallot and cook, while stirring, until the shallot is golden and softened.
Add the turmeric, ginger, and lime peel and stir for 30 seconds and then add the Brussels sprouts. Stir to coat with the seasonings, then add the coconut milk and broth.
Cover the saucepan and simmer gently until the Brussels sprouts are tender, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Season to taste with salt and serve warm with a squirt of fresh lime juice.


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You—a budding wine aficionado or a dedicated one-glass-before-bed sipper—might be wondering: Should I own a wine fridge? And, if so, what's the best wine fridge, really? It's certainly true that storing your wine at a consistent, regulated temperature (that's generally somewhere between 45°F and 50°F for whites and between 55°F and 65°F for reds) is important. Over time, temperature variations cause the wine cork to expand and contract, which in turn sucks unwanted oxygen into the bottle and kills your wine.
Fitted with horizontal bottle racks, standalone wine caves can store your wines at a fixed temperature to prevent oxidation and change in flavor—and, of course, they'll ensure that wines are held at the optimal temperature for serving, too. Plus, given the wide range of varietals and styles of wines you might be storing, many wine caves offer multiple temperature zones.
But, even so, is it really worth shelling out hundreds (or sometimes thousands!) of dollars if you're only keeping a few bottles around to be consumed relatively quickly? And if you are going to invest, what's the best wine fridge to buy? We tapped sommelier John Slover, currently corporate beverage director at New York City's Major Food Group, to answer these burning questions.
Should You Own a Wine Fridge?
"The decision about whether or not to buy a wine cave should have nothing to do with one's level of 'seriousness' about wine, but rather how many bottles you want to have in the house and how quickly you want to drink them," explains Slover. Storing just five or six bottles shouldn't justify the purchase. In that case, Slover adds, "Storing wine in a dark closet on its side is fine." Buy what you're going to drink in the new few weeks and replenish on a monthly basis.
If you're storing a couple dozen bottles at home and won't drink them within the month, definitely consider a wine fridge. And that isn't just limited to people collecting three-figure bottles—Slover advises keeping even your mid-range wines at an ideal temperature if they won't be opened anytime soon. "Even if they aren't blue-chip auction-ready wines, your wines that cost anywhere between $20 and $50 should be stored properly," he says. "Stuff that's good shouldn't sit around an apartment with rising or falling temperatures and variable humidity."
Criteria to Look For
If you've decided you're the type of wine drinker that needs a cave, there are several key factors you should consider. First, of course, is price. Wine caves run as low as $100 and as high as into the thousands depending on the make, size, and features.
Then, you'll want to decide if you need a dual-zone cave. "People who are a little more than casual drinkers should look into dual-zone caves, which allow you to set one part at 45 degrees and another at 55," says Slover. "Keep your red at the higher temperature and your white at the colder temperature so they are ready to serve."
Slover says the best wine coolers will have adjustable shelves. His favorite brand, Eurocave, makes shelves that can be moved around to accommodate Slover's collection of larger burgundy bottles. "They have a mix of static shelves and rolling shelves, with the flexibility to add more rolling shelves. So you can make a shelf for wider burgundy bottles and fat champagne bottles to avoid scratching up labels and jamming shelves." The other side of that coin, he notes, is they are the priciest on the market.
You'll also want to consider the storage space. The best option for most people would be to get a 40- to 50-bottle cave that would fit under a kitchen counter, Slover advises. More storage space will increase the price: At 100–120 bottles, wine caves tend to go over $1,000. While storage space will depend largely on the space you have allotted in your home, it makes sense, if you have over 100 bottles, that $1,000 is a reasonable investment to ensure your wines maintain their quality. At this point, a freestanding option might make more sense.


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You can boost your home's value by doing home improvement projects. These are some simple tips on how to remodel your home and maximize its value. Taking this advice will help you do these projects efficiently, and as such, getting the most value bang for your buck.
When replacing baseboards, stained wood offers more appeal than painted baseboards. The classic look of finished wood complements virtually any interior decor style. Less maintenance is involved in the upkeep of stained baseboards and touch-ups are less noticeable. Wood stain comes in lots of different colors to coordinate with any color scheme.
If you want to find a simple and easy way to improve your home, visit a paint store and buy some paint. Fresh coats of new color can add fresh energy to a home for little expense of money or time. When you are considering selling your home, repainting your home will increase its appeal to potential buyers.
Do not underestimate the amount of effort that your project will require. Make a complete list of all that you have planned. It is also valuable to get a second opinion in case you missed something during your assessment. You can save a lot of money just by keeping to a plan that includes everything you will need to do.
If your work takes place anywhere near a gas line, such as a fireplace, dryer or the kitchen, turn the gas off before getting into your project. Even if the gas is turned off, you should still be very cautious when working under these conditions. You could start a fire and hurt yourself if you are not cautious.
It's pretty simple to connect two PVC pipes together when you use primer and cement designed specifically for PVC. You must use these exact products. Other types of products will not work with PVC pipe, and leaking may result. In addition, make sure there's no moisture on the pipes.
Don't forget about landscaping when planning your home improvement projects. Your front yard is the first glimpse visitors get of your home, making a well landscaped lawn sure to impress. Keep your grass cut and neat, and you may even want to plant some shrubs to make your lawn look even better.
Using the few simple tips above, you can avoid losing money during remodeling and you can still get a higher return for your home. Use the information you have learned and incorporate it into your next home improvement project, ensuring a profitable sale. blog.thewoodjoint.co.za/parquet-flooring/
Posted by jostander111 on 2013-12-09 08:32:50
Tagged: , flooring


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By Leirum Rivas, Copywriter
The Spanish language is more alive than ever, and it's changing everyday. In order to approach the young, and not so young "Latino generations" in the U.S., we must turn our eyes and "ears" to this transformation. Just like all fusions (think kimchi tacos!), Spanish language is starting a new trend by incorporating different "Spanish-es" to the mix and blending them with English.
Data For Your Thoughts
Although many analysts and authors maintain that third-generation Latinos will primarily speak English, the truth is that Spanish will remain relevant and evolve into "New Spanish". It won't die off like many say, but more than likely will be different than how it's used today.
Nearly all U.S. Latinos say they value the ability to speak Spanish, with 95% saying it is important to them that future generations of U.S. Latinos speak the language. David Adams, Univision Noticias
Spanglish, an informal hybrid of both languages, is widely used among Hispanics ages 16 to 25. Among these young Hispanics, 70% report using Spanglish. Jens Manuel Krogstad and Ana Gonzalez-Barrera for Pew Research Center
Based on Pew Research Center data: Spanglish is used by many young Latinos in America… 57 percent of second-generation, young Hispanic Americans speak Spanglish "some of the time" and 26 percent speak it "most of the time." Panoramas – Daniel Snyder
¿Speak Spanglish?
"Hola! What's up?" this known, and more common, interchange of English and Spanish language will continue to evolve. Even younger English-dominant generations hold Spanish in high regard, especially considering that they want to be in the know and be able to navigate between different worlds seamlessly. However, Spanglish is just a part of the "New Spanish" and goes beyond a simple combination of Spanish and English words:
• Fluent and interchangeable use of English and Spanish in a conversation or written form.
• Spanglish is not homogeneous; it varies depending on country of origin and even location here in the U.S. Think about Puerto Rican communities in NYC, Mexican communities in L.A. or Venezuelan communities in Miami.
• Social Media plays a key role on this hybrid language. Just scroll through pages such as Pero Like or We are Mitú. This last one, with over 3,490,000 followers, proves this dual expression is still relevant and engaging.
• It may sound ironic, but there are some rules: it is not about alternating every word in a single sentence, but rather expressing the idea interchanging Spanish and English in a way that makes sense. So even if it doesn't seem so, there's an "art" to Spanglish.
Oye, quiero see you este weekend. Maybe mañana? Déjame know. ❌
Oye, quiero verte este weekend. Maybe tomorrow? Let me know. ✅
• Which brings us to another important point, authenticity. It has to feel real, like people use it, not just a random blend of English and Spanish.
• There's a neutral Spanglish, but then there's the Spanglish stem from each Hispanic community, with its respective nuances.
So, What's the New Español?
The New Español is the way Hispanics in the U.S. are using and adapting Spanish. We are not just bilingual… we are multilingual.
Just think of a Colombian fellow moving to Texas. He speaks "Colombian Spanish" and blends it with English, but he also has to learn Mexican slang, words, and idioms into the mix.
Spanish is transforming itself into a culture melting pot, where we speak a bit of Mexican, or Dominican, Argentinean or Colombian depending on where we are located. This goes for first generation Hispanics but also for younger generations.
• It's a mixed Spanish that varies depending on the dominant Hispanic community in the zone.
• Interchanges Spanish and English, utilizing Spanglish as a way to relate to both Hispanic and American cultures.
• It has its own words transliterated from English. For example: "Parking – Parquear", "Lunch – Lonche", "Truck – Troca" o "Copay – Copago".
• It's dynamic and adaptable. It incorporates words and idioms from different Latin American countries.
• It's curious and inclusive. It incorporates words, idioms and sayings from different "Spanish-es".
• For younger generations, Spanish serves as a strong emotional connector. Audiences react to Spanish emotionally but may communicate verbally in English.
How Does It Help My Brand?
In a growing multicultural America, brands that want to engage a diverse audience will have to speak different languages. Want to join the conversation in a Hispanic household and be relevant to both the first-generation Latino (mom or Dad) and the second-generation Latino? Try Spanglish! Translating that "cultural shift" into your creative will help your audience relate. Finally, your brand should be a reflection of the mixed world Hispanics live in. See our newest work for Goya Foods.
Language is more complex than what we think, especially with the cultural fluidity of Hispanic communities in the U.S. Even English dominant Hispanic generations have their own way of relating with Spanish o Spanglish when looking to connect with their roots. But in order to be "exitoso" a brand needs to connect in an authentic way. Be sure to subscribe to Provoke Weekly to learn more about the ever-changing America.
Lei is a Venezuelan-boricuan copywriter and innate storyteller. She's a bookworm who started her career in the world of literature, and then worked her way into advertising.


text: Alpha Laser Welders lead the welding industry in power and capability. They are finely tuned machines, engineered to perform the most difficult tasks with ease. Our objective is to make laser welding exceedingly accurate and exceptionally fast! Our industrial lasers are the most flexible, efficient, and reliable systems available! We prove this through live demonstrations for our customers.


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Contributed by – Pranab Bhandari
Pure ghee made from the organic dairy product is a natural antioxidant that inhibits the oxidation process and also eliminates free radicals. Therefore, it helps in preventing degenerative changes in our body to avoid premature aging. However, you need to consume it at an appropriate amount for better overall health.
Ghee (clarified butter) has been an essential part of traditional Indian cuisine since ages. While many health aficionados try to avoid eating ghee as they believe it is unhealthy, the reality is that it's packed with many health benefits. However, you must consume pure cow ghee in the right quantity but not in excess.
How much ghee must be consumed daily?
Some people consider Desi cow ghee unhealthy, as they don't really know its health benefits. Healthy people must consume around one to two teaspoons (15g) of desi ghee on a daily basis to remain healthy. Nonetheless, you must remember that it contains high saturated fats, so eating it in excess may increase your cholesterol levels.
Health Benefits of Pure Cow Ghee
If you eat ghee in the right amount, you can enjoy the following health benefits:
- Acts as a brain tonic
According to some nutritionists, desi cow ghee serves as a brain tonic and is good for your nerves. It includes high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids that are essential for your overall health. The deficiency of these acids may lead to the risk of Alzheimer's and dementia. Therefore, it is best to eat organic ghee regularly to help your brain function properly.
- Prevents cancer
Although pure cow ghee is rich in saturated fats, it is good for cooking Indian food, as it also has a high boiling point. This means it doesn't burn easily. It generates few radicals when heated and hence, known to decrease the risk of cancer. It is even rich in antioxidants that future prevents free radical damage.
- Helps in digestion
Desi cow ghee also helps in proper secretion of certain stomach acids that help in digestion. Therefore, it is recommended by certain nutritionists to consume it with khichdi, Puran Poli and other Indian dishes to improve digestion.
- Natural moisturizer
Organic ghee is also a natural beauty enhancer. If you have dry skin, dry scalp or chapped lips, you can apply some ghee before sleeping and wash it off the next morning. Your skin will become smooth and soft after repeated used of ghee on your skin.
- Melts stubborn fat
Are you suffering from any problem areas in the body where fat gets accumulated easily? If so, consider eating ghee regularly. This is because it contains essential amino acids, which helps in mobilizing fat and letting your fat cells to shrink.
Besides the aforementioned benefits, pure cow ghee is also good for people suffering from joint pain. It even has the ability to improve your vision and memory. Ghee also strengthens your immune system, as it has powerful antifungal and antiviral properties.
Now that you are aware of the benefits of adding ghee to your diet, you must not avoid putting it to your rice, roti, and dal.
Who should avoid organic ghee?
While ghee has many health benefits, people suffering from diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and high blood cholesterol must avoid it to evade further medical complications.


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Potential Partners Gather at MF Global Headquarters
The board and management of MF Global Holdings Ltd. continued to labor on a deal to sell all or part of the broker-dealer Saturday, with bankers and potential partners conducting due diligence at the firm's midtown Manhattan offices, according to a person familiar with the matter.
MF Global's board of directors continued to meet as a wet snow fell, with Chairman and Chief Executive Jon Corzine leading efforts to negotiate an arrangement for the firm, which could include the sale of assets or the entire company.
"People are moving as quickly as possible," said the person, though no immediate deadline looms for striking a deal for MF Global.
The New York-based firm has come under intense pressure in the past week, reporting its largest-ever quarterly loss and suffering a series of credit downgrades tied to the firm's exposure to European sovereign debt, increased inclination to take risk and a challenging environment for trading. Its shares on Friday closed at $1.20, down 67% in five days and 86% year to date.
Moves by two credit raters to place MF Global's debt below investment grade has prompted some of its trading counterparties to dial back their exposure to the firm, and MF Global has in recent days moved to raise cash, including fully tapping a $1.3 billion credit facility, according to people close to the situation. A research note Friday from Keefe Bruyette & Woods noted that other assets on MF Global's balance sheet are "relatively liquid."
Firms reported to be evaluating a deal for some or all of MF Global's business include Goldman Sachs Group Inc. GS -3.15% State Street Corp. STT 3.94% and Macquarie Group Ltd. MQBKY -0.90% Private equity firm J.C. Flowers & Co.., which already maintains a 6% stake in MF Global and backed Corzine for taking over the top job at the brokerage in March 2010, is in talks on a potential deal, according to people familiar with the matter.
Write to Jacob Bunge at email@example.com
Copyright ©2019 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8


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Studio Mariska Jagt was set up by interior designer Mariska Jagt in 2010. Mariska's personality, refined taste, and vision of home, work and life are all directly reflected in her creative work. She has an outstanding ability to empathise with the wishes and requirements of her clients. Through intensive collaboration with these clients, she presents contemporary and stylish design solutions. Building on her passion for interior design together with her specialist partners, Mariska also focuses on developing new products.
The studio has a strong reputation as a specialist for luxury interior architecture and design as well as for producing distinctive interiors that breath a serene elegance. Besides paying close attention to detail, Studio Mariska Jagt aims for individual solutions involving high-end interiors where the user feels at home but is also challenged to think for themselves.
The portfolio of Studio Mariska Jagt comprises a wide range of national and international projects: from villas to hotels, from public spaces to head offices. The studio initiates a tailor-made process for each project, always firmly centred on the client.
Good taste | Contemporary Elegance | Quiet Luxury | Camouflaged Glamour


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Welcome to Purposeful living today. Our mission on this blog is to inspire you through the word of God and by the power of the Holy Spirit to discover and fulfill your purpose on earth with the gifts and abilities of God in you. Our vision is to see people live a fulfilled and balanced life in all areas of life only in Christ Jesus. Join us in making our mission and vision a reality by sharing this gospel of love and purpose to your friends on your social media platforms. Thank you and God bless you. We love and celebrate you.
Good morning dear readers, it is such a delight to have you here. Hope you had a great night.
Today I want to share with you on the difference between Begging, Asking and Partnership .
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you (Matthew 7:7 KJV).
I grew up with a very independent mindset that made me believe that I don't need anyone to succeed in life, I can do things all by myself without asking help from anyone or partnering with people. I thought if I ask people to help me I will be a burden to them and this I don't like to be to people. I thought that I was begging people when I ask them for help. I was wrong! Until I learnt that there is a difference between asking, begging and partnership, I wallowed in ignorance of not making use of the gifts and resources in people which is referred to as human capital . So let me show you the difference that I have learnt so that if you are in my shoe, you can get your mind renewed today.
See also: Purposeful Courtship
See also: Purposeful Courtship
People is one of the greatest asset you need to fulfill your purpose and destiny in life.
This is the practice of requesting help from someone earnestly or humbly for something, often in the form of money or to plead with someone for a favour. A person doing begging is called a beggar, panhandler or mendicant.
Begging is having a dependent mindset on people, it is when your survival in life is tied to a person(s) or thing(s). Beggars on the street don't think of how they can be creative so that they can be independent of others financially.
You are a beggar when you always ask people to help you to take care of your daily needs because you don't want to develop the capacity to be financially independent.
You are a beggar when you ask always for money to feed not money to invest in a business so you can create wealth.
You are a beggar when you always run to wealthy people so they can give you peanut.
God did not create beggars, you are created to be prosperous.
No one can succeed alone. Your capacity to form and maintain right relationships is your capital in life. Relationship are costly. Be wise! - Korede Komaiya.
This is the act of posing a question or making a request or petition. To say something in order to get an answer or some information or to invite (someone) to one's home or a function.
Asking is very important in the fulfillment of purpose and destiny. It is only those that ask questions that demand answers. Asking does not make you dependent on people. You know what you want from life and what you want to do with your life, unlike the beggar that does not know what he wants in life, he does not even use his thinking cap.
You can ask for direction from someone when you don't know where you are going. Not to ask is a display of pride which will cost your time, talent and resources.
You can ask for financial help to start a business or to foot a bill this is if you are experiencing financial crisis. Don't allow people to keep giving you.
See also: The Most Important Question Of Your Life.
See also: The Most Important Question Of Your Life.
He who keeps giving you will keep leading you.
You don't ask anybody or everybody you meet for financial help or favour, the people you should ask for help should be people with a track record trust.
A partnership is an arrangement where parties, known as partners agree to cooperate to advance their mutual interests. The partners in a partnership maybe individuals, government, schools, interest-based organisation or combinations of organisations may partner to increase the likelihood of each achieving their mission and to amplify their reach. A partnership result in issuing and holding equity or may be only governed by a contract- Wikipedia
You need partners in fulfilling your purpose in life, you don't have everything you need in the fulfillment of purpose an d destiny. You may have a business idea but don't have the capital to start up. You need to partner with someone who has the capital so you can begin the business.
No man is an island; recognize, maximize and celebrate the gift in others.
Dependent Attitude
Independent Attitude
Interdependent Attitude
Don't be a beggar you can ask, those who ask receive
Don't be a beggar, partner with people in the fulfillment of your dreams. One will chase a thousand and two will chase ten thousand to flight (Deu 32:30). You alone can go fast but with a team you can go far.
God wants us to ask and partner with people, but with whom and when should you is a very important question that your relationship with God can help you to reveal. Many have asked for help and have partnered with someone that turned their lives and destiny around negatively.
You can accept Him now if you have not done so. If you will like to do this, please say this prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ I acknowledge that I am a sinner, I believe in your death and resurrection. I ask you to forgive me my sins, I reject the devil and all his works and l welcome the Holy Spirit into my life. I declare today I am born again and I am a child of God in Jesus name. Amen.
If you just said that prayer I welcome you to God's family. Look for a Bible believing church where God's word is taught and fellowship there.
Lord Jesus Christ I acknowledge that I am a sinner, I believe in your death and resurrection. I ask you to forgive me my sins, I reject the devil and all his works and l welcome the Holy Spirit into my life. I declare today I am born again and I am a child of God in Jesus name. Amen.
If you just said that prayer I welcome you to God's family. Look for a Bible believing church where God's word is taught and fellowship there.
If you made this decision please send a mail to firstname.lastname@example.com
Thanks for visiting and reading, please do share with a friend on your social media platforms so you can bless others. Let's together share the good news of building purposeful relationships for the Glory of God and for our blessings.
Always remember that Fulfill Purpose Blog loves and Celebrate you. Please do share with us your thoughts on this topic in the comment box below, we will love to see your thoughts on this topic.
Follow us on Twitter @ Fulfill Purpose Blog .
Our Instagram page is @fulfillpurposeblog.
Like our Facebook page @ Fulfill Purpose Blog.
Our Instagram page is @fulfillpurposeblog.
Like our Facebook page @ Fulfill Purpose Blog.
Thanks for Reading.


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The Unbelievable Benefits of Cold Showers
by Janet Ashforth
Are Cold Showers Good for You?
The answer is yes. Cold showers are a game-changer with a slew of benefits that may make you want to take one every day. Yes, a cold shower can feel like an icy blast from the Arctic, but you don't have to endure endless minutes in a cold shower to receive the benefits. You can incorporate a few minutes of cold into your regular shower and slowly increase the duration of cold as you grow accustomed to the temperature.
However, when we say cold, we mean all the way cold. Just a bit chilly isn't going to cut it, so turn that faucet handle all the way up to reap these remarkable benefits, including:
- An improvement in depression
- An improvement in mood and motivation
- A decrease in body-fat (by increasing brown fat and decreasing subcutaneous fat)
- A decrease in chronic pain
- Assistance in exercise recovery
- An increase in immune function
- An increase in willpower
- A stronger immune system
- An increase in testosterone
- Weight loss stimulation
- Stronger hair and skin
- An increase in focus and alertness
- Tightened pores in your skin
- Better blood circulation
- A decrease in stress by regulating your autonomic nervous system
- Less fatigue and/or insomnia
- An improvement varicose veins and/or hemorrhoids
It's an exhaustive list with so many benefits that it may seem impossible, but these benefits have been scientifically proven by numerous studies. Cold showers are nothing new. Hydrotherapy dates back to the 1820s when Vincenz Priessnitz, a farmer in Gräfenberg, Austrian Silesia, started touting hydrotherapy as a new medical treatment. The practice soon spread to the rest of Europe and eventually made its way to the United States. Its popularity declined in the 20th century when doctors began to favor drugs for illness treatments. Now, cold showers seem to be making a comeback. But please keep in mind that if you have heart problems or any other medical issues, you should check with your doctor to make sure cold water therapy is right for you.
Janet Ashforth has been a personal fitness trainer for over 20 years and currently owns her own fitness company. She uses fitness training, yoga, meditation, nutritional guidance and massage to guide her clients in health and wellness. Ashforth has held certifications from the American Council on Exercise and American College of Sports Medicine, and is also a licensed massage therapist.
1. Shevchuk, NA. 2007, November 13. Adapted cold shower as a potential treatment for depression. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nl2007, m.nih.gov/pubmed/17993252
2. Knox,R. 2009, April 9. Fat Could Help You Lose Weight Someday. Retrieved from https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=102964807
3. Mooventhan, A. 2014, May 6. Scientific Evidence-Based Effects of Hydrotherapy on Various Systems of the Body. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4049052/
4. Siems, W. ND. Uric acid and glutathione levels during short-term whole body cold exposure. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0891584994900302


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The History of Twin Bayous – How Long Was I Gone?
Mike remembers very little of what happened to him when he was suddenly abducted by a strange beam of light.
One second he was out on deserted road outside of Twin Bayous and then the next second he standing on the rooftop of a building in some weird city face-to-face with some weird-looking dude.
The man said he was the official welcomer of the Source and he welcomed Mike to the Source by saying "Welcome to the Source!" with a great deal of enthusiasm.
Yet before Mike had a chance to ask where he was…
…he was told to go to the place called the headquarters of the Ministry of Legacies.
There at the Ministry of Legacies Mike was met by a strange little man who introduced himself as the director of the Ministry of Legacies. The man said his name, but Mike did not quit catch what the man said and he was way too put off to ask the man to repeat what he had said.
As far as Mike was concerned the little man was speaking Gibberish (an archaic dialect of Simlish), but he did catch something to effect that man was thanking him for having done a great job of "moving the story along."
It was at this point that Mike started having flashbacks to something that happened to him when he was a teenager.
Mike was given an orb which contained a "sprite" and he was told to communicate with this thing whenever he felt like it.
Then he was taken to a room and told to go to sleep in a bed without any bedcovers.
It was a sort of a pod with an energy field that acted as a blanket.
When he woke the next morning, he felt refreshed, but then he also felt oddly different.
As he had been directed, he communicated with the sprite. He did not realize that his personality had been altered and that he now had the Proper trait and that he had also become Charismatic.
Before he left and was sent back home, Mike was given instructions that he was too continue to dispense fortunes to young folks in Twin Bayous. What he was not told was that he had also been given some other instructions – instructions that had been planted deep inside his sub-conscience.
Just as quickly as he had arrived, he departed. In another beam of light, Mike was set down on top of Clemen's Tower.
From up there he needed to figure out how he was going to get home.
It was getting a bit chilly out, so Mike donned a coat and he jogged along the highway.
He was lost for a while until he came upon the Old Quarry.
He was puzzled at first when he discovered that someone had left a fresh keg of beer just sitting out in the middle of nowhere.
But as he sipped the beer he thought this must all be part of the plan.
Then Mike sat on makeshift sofa in the middle of the Old Quarry and proceeded to contemplate the vast absurdity of it all.


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Our Commitment to You during Covid-19
Our Associates, Clients and Partners are at the heart of everything we do. We remain committed to providing critical medical device development services while protecting our communities throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic.
NAMSA is the only Medical Research Organization…
…that reduces time to market & costs for medical device product development.
We do this by providing global expertise in Consulting, Laboratory Testing Services & Clinical Research.
It's called the MRO® Approach.
Concept / Feasibility
Your innovation starts here – Charting your strategy from bench to bedside is underway. Do you know how to minimize product development risk at this stage?
Design Validation & Preclinical
Your innovation becomes a product that needs to be evaluated, refined, and finalized. Have you created a testing strategy to save you time and money?
The successful evaluation of your product through human clinical trials in a timely manner requires experience. Do you know how to streamline this stage in your development?
Market Approval
Device approval by the appropriate regulatory governing body is critical. Does your submission meet all requirements for clearance and is your team commercially ready?
Post-market surveillance to monitor the safety of your device is imperative. Does your post-market strategy include physician training, lot release testing, or quality audits?
NAMSA's medical device experts work across a multitude of therapeutic areas including Cardiovascular, Orthopaedic, IVD, and Wound Care. The combined experiences of our specialists, enables us to customize your quality system, design validation, testing, and clinical trials to your specific therapeutic needs.


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So in the wake of Apple missing analyst expectations for sales and profits during the December quarter, some members of the media have decided that Tim Cook has to go. It's all his fault, and they need to get someone in there to fix what ails Apple. Or maybe call a medium and contact Steve Jobs in the afterlife and get him involved once again. Calling Dr. Frankenstein!
So why should Cook go? What did he do wrong, and where were the calls for Apple to fire all those failed executives who trashed the company after Steve Jobs was sent packing in the 1980s?
The main reason appears to be the fact that Apple has been missing estimates for sales and profits in recent quarters. It's not that Apple is necessarily failing their own guidance, but the inflated numbers from others who may be using mediums and tea leaves to arrive at those figures. Or perhaps dragging them from dark places in their anatomies.
The failures? Well, Maps for one. Steve Jobs would never have allowed that thing to be released if he were on the job. Only the lessons of history show that Jobs had his missteps too, and I'm not going to bother to list them. The journalists who clamor for Cook to go just need to do their homework.
I suppose the critics are also complaining because the iMac was late, and is still constrained. The same is true for the iPhone 4, surprisingly, production of the iPhone 5 has only recently caught up with demand, and the iPad mini won't catch up till later this quarter. Was there a failure, or is Apple pushing the supply chain as hard as possible to get these products out in sufficient quantities?
Consider the result to sales and profits if the iMac arrived with full availability a month earlier, without production bottlenecks, and the iPhone and iPad mini weren't similarly constrained. Imagine how the results would have fared if Mac sales were on a par with last year, or a tad ahead, and Apple moved a few million more iPhones and iPad minis during the quarter. Forget about every other factor in Apple's numbers, and tally the results. Revenue would be several billion dollars higher, and profits would have exceeded last year. End of complaint.
If Apple's problems occurred because of a falloff in demand, that's one thing. If the products weren't almost universally praised by customers, and given high marks by reviewers, that would be another. If the production problems were somehow due to a Cook screwup of some sort, that would also be a factor in considering his future at Apple.
But Cook has been doing the operations thing at Apple since the 1990s, and he's been a tremendous success at it. If, after their best efforts, Apple can't meet the full demand for their products, that's actually not a bad thing. It's only a bad thing if lots of customers lose patience and go elsewhere rather than wait for delivery, even if the shipment arrives a few weeks later.
The other argument, which also betrays serious ignorance, is the claim that Apple must revolutionize a product category every single year. How, then, do you explain the lapse of six years between the introduction of the iPod in 2001 and the launch of the iPhone in 2007? Did the arrival of the iPad in 2010 mean that Apple must now enter a three-year cycle? If so, the year is still young, and, other than the usual product refreshes, nobody outside of Apple really knows what's on tap for this year.
Sure, Cook is still dropping broad hints about something in the TV space. That two million copies of the Apple TV were sold in the last quarter would be amazing for any company other than Apple. To them, two million is still a hobby, though I can see where it can grow into a fairly mainstream product assuming a new generation model expands the ability to control your TV experience. I am not convinced that Apple really wants — or needs — to build a TV set to make a dent in that market. A pretty smart TV with a spiffy interface and some unique control functions might be a big seller, but hardly a revolution.
On the other hand, I'm not apologizing for Tim Cook. Were he to leave tomorrow, he could retire and travel the world for the rest of his life and never worry about the next car payment or electric bill. But I don't see evidence of his failure, and I see sensible reasons why Apple didn't do quite as well as the financial community expected.
The next six months, however, will be the key to how Apple's ongoing prospects are perceived. But even if the growth rate slows to "normal" levels, that's nothing to apologize for.


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Animal Behaviour: Keeping Ourselves Safe Near Dogs (for year 5 & 6 pupils)
This resource has been designed with year 5 and 6 pupils in mind and is suitable for other year groups and PSHE lessons. It will enable teachers to feel confident when covering these lesson objectives:
- to realise the importance of human interactions with dogs
- to realise dogs usually become aggressive to defend themselves and their possessions
- to understand that there is a graded ladder, or sequence, of aggression for both dogs and humans
- to realise that certain actions and situations can trigger aggressive behaviour in both dogs and humans
- to understand that dog bites can be avoided
- to stop dogs feeling like biting.
This is a FREE resource and is made of two parts: A set of comprehensive teacher's notes, background information, glossary, suggested activities and answers, as well as, a pack of sixteen worksheets.
Download the Free Resource by clicking on the links below.