text:
Lake County Captains/ 4 years ago
Chiang Shines in Lake County Captains Win over Bowling Green
EASTLAKE, OHIO – The Captains used a gem from Shao-Ching Chiang and drew 12 walks to defeat the Bowling Green Hot...
Indians/ 4 years ago
Lewis Shakes Off Demons of the Past at Progressive Field; Shuts Down Indians in Rangers Win
CLEVELAND – The Indians offense had another tough night for the second straight game, pounding out eight hits, but scoring just...
Akron RubberDucks/ 4 years ago
VIDEO: Akron RubberDucks Outfield Prospect Clint Frazier Post-Game Interview
Akron RubberDucks outfield prospect Clint Frazier spoke with reporters following Tuesday night's 11-4 win over the Altoona Curve. It was Frazier's...
Akron RubberDucks/ 4 years ago
Clint Frazier Returns from DL; RubberDucks Snap 2-Game Skid, Slugging Out 11-4 Win Over Altoona
The first-place Akron RubberDucks (35-15) hosted the second-place Altoona Curve (28-21) on Tuesday night at Canal Park. Akron snapped a two-game...
Main/ 4 years ago
Triple Threat Podcast Episode 2: Money In the Bank And Hottest Storylines
Eli, Payton and Vince talk about the hottest storylines going on in the WWE. Click the link below to listen. May 31,...
Indians/ 4 years ago
Rangers Bats Stay Hot; Take Down Kluber and the Tribe 7-3
CLEVELAND, OH – Game two of the three-game set between the Cleveland Indians and Texas Rangers had a somewhat similar start...
Lake County Captains/ 4 years ago
Captains' 2B Tyler Krieger Wins Weekly Prospect Award
EASTLAKE, OHIO – Lake County Captains second baseman Tyler Krieger was named to the MLB Pipeline Prospect Team of the Week...
Cavaliers/ 4 years ago
Cavaliers Fan Pays Off Bet – Eats Shirt After Warriors Beat Thunder in Western Finals
Making silly bets over sports is nothing new, but one Cavalier fan took it to a new level, as he was...
Columbus Crew/ 4 years ago
Columbus Crew's Ola Kamara Named the MLS Player of the Week
Columbus Crew SC announced earlier today that Ola Kamara was voted MLS Player of the Week by the North American Soccer...
Main/ 4 years ago
5 Takeaways From The May 30 Edition Of Raw
So, like every Raw, there's things that you take away from the show. Like maybe a bad segment or match. Maybe...


text:
The European Commission said today it would create a multi-stakeholder committee to advise it on energy and transport polices. Originally proposed by transport ministers, the European energy and transport forum will bring industry operators, union representatives and environmental and consumer campaigners together to discuss competitiveness and restructuring in the sectors, with an emphasis on environmental, social and safety concerns. Among its main tasks will be to "organise and analyse debates and actions" relating to two major Commission initiatives: a recent green paper on energy security and a forthcoming transport white paper. See Commission press release.
Please enter your details
Having trouble signing in?
Contact Customer Support at
or call 020 8267 8120
Not a subscriber?
Take a free trial now to discover the critical insights and updates our coverage offers subscribers.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
A new beta version of Helium 13.2 is now available for pre-testing.
This version is not ready for official release yet, but you can start to test the new features today if you like. Just install it on top of your current Helium 13 release and start to work with it. The version does not contain any database changes so it will be fully compatible with the current official release.
Major changes
- New tool, Action manager – The scripting support introduced in Helium 12 is very powerful when it comes to created automated tasks with custom logic. It is a bit complex though, since it requires that the end-user has knowledge of basic programming within the .NET language. The Action manager is similar to the tool which existed in older Helium versions which allows you to automate tasks without the needing of scripting knowledge. Please note that this tool is not fully completed, it is missing some translations and QA testing.
- MySql 8 support. Several SQL statements has been updated to support MySql 8. This version of Helium also comes with updated MySql drivers.
- Visual icons has been added for several columns. You can control if you would like to display icons only for this columns or icons together with text.
- Quality column introduced.
- The window (task-bar) title can scroll to show the full information about the song currently being played.
- Possibility to multi-select suggested tracks and perform actions against them.
- A specific artists age is calculated and shown in artist details. (requires that at least born date is filled)
- Possibility con control how downloaded track-information should be merged/overwritten more in detail.
- Extended error logging when adding tracks to the Library.
- Possibility to set favourite from scripts.
- Possibility to work with multiple artists from scripts.
- Track download plugins can use multiple artists.
Apart from the above improvements, this version also contains bug corrections and minor improvements.
Working with the beta version
Please note all functions in this beta version is not fully completed. Functions might not have passed all QA testing and can miss translation texts.
This beta version cannot be installed parallell to the official Helium 13 version.
Please work with backup files when working with new tools such as the Action manager in this version.
If you find any bugs or if you have feedabck, please let us know by clicking here.
Click here to download Helium 13.2 beta.


text:
Senior Machine Learning Engineer
- Job Title
- Senior Machine Learning Engineer
- Job ID
- 27379163
- Location
- Nashville, TN 37221
- Other Location
- Description
As a Machine Learning Engineer you will be working in one of the most complex data environments in healthcare. You will be responsible to determine ways to intelligently use this data to enhance the users' experience and to inform customers of trends identified by the data. You should have excellent business and communications skills to be able to work with both technical teams as well non-technical teams and direct with our clients. You should be someone who loves to bring data together to answer business questions and drive change.
- Create machine learning models and applications. Use your strong multiple programming languages to lead the design and development of the next generation machine learning algorithms that will drive operational improvements across the healthcare continuum of care and dramatically improve insights for all our stakeholders both internal (analysts, business leaders, etc.) and external (clinicians, health system CEOs and CIOs, etc,).
- Select appropriate databases and data representation methods that ensure successful testing of machine learning models and are representative of our client's data.
- Perform statistical analysis and fine-tuning using test results.
- Run machine learning tests and experiments.
- Keep abreast of developments in machine learning and statistics.
- Bachelors in Computer Science, Machine Learning or related field
- Masters preferred
- 8 Years of total software engineer experience of which 4+ years of experience building functional ML applications for prediction, utilization (e.g., commercial products or government projects), NLP.
- Previous experience in using Hadoop ecosystem ML tools (SparkML, Mahout, etc.)
- Experience validating software through industry accepted testing strategies
- Experience working in an Agile development environment
- Proven experiences on delivering distributed systems and services in a production setting
- A portfolio of relevant publications or open-source projects to share with us
- A desire to keep up with the field by attending or publishing at relevant conferences (ACL, EMNLP, NAACL-HLT, ICML, NIPS, etc.
- Graduate-level expertise (or equivalent industry experience) in machine learning, natural language processing, or related field
- Expert knowledge in implementing ML systems at scale in Python, Java, Scala, SparkML, or C/C++ (i.e., not just R or MATLAB)
- Be responsible for the architecture, design, development, and operations of large-scale systems designed for machine learning. These may include, but not limited to, data management systems, data engineering workflow systems, distributed compute systems, and their web portal & web service components
- A strong mathematical background in statistics and machine learning. Understands data structures, data modeling, and software architecture.
- Great presentation and communication skills
- Experience with some or all of the following:
- REST API's
- Amazon Web Services
- Windows and Linux


text:
Soy Vay Veri Veri Teriyaki Clone
A wonderful base to give meats and other dishes a sweet teriyaki flavor.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
- 2 cups soy sauce I prefer the light soy sauce but any will work
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp garlic minced
- 1 tbsp ginger grated
- ¼ cup sesame seeds toasted
- ¼ cup sesame oil
- ¼ cup onion dried, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- 1 tbsp cornstarch dissolved in water
- Whisk all the ingredients together in a small bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a small sauce pan.
- Heat the sauce over low heat until the sugar begins to dissolve. This should take between 10 – 15 minutes. It's alright if all the sugar doesn't completely dissolve, it will eventually dissolve over time.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, dissolve the cornstarch in ¼ cup of water and add to mixture. This will help to make the sauce a little thicker without changing the flavor very much.
- Allow to cool and transfer to a bottle so you can put it in the refrigerator. It's best to all to cool overnight before use, but if you are in a hurry, you can use it to marinate right away. Works great on vegetables for soy meat products.


text:
OST Wallet App
FAQ related to the OST Wallet App released in June 2019
The OST Wallet App is a non-custodial wallet app that lets you explore basic wallet features, enabled through the OST Wallet SDK. The wallet app lets you add your brand token, invite users, and experiment with sending and receiving tokens. You c...
The OST Wallet App lets you experiment with your brand token without doing a full blown integration. Behind the scenes, a server that represents the role of your backend systems is deployed. The OST Wallet App is intended for developers and br...
To connect to the OST Wallet App, login to OST Platform and select Wallet. Or navigate to the following URL https://platform.ost.com/testnet/wallet Note: You must have created a brand token and initiated stake and mint to access the Wallet.
This step will create your token economy in the OST Wallet test app. You and your team members will be able to download the test app on iOS and Android, run test transactions, and explore the wallet security features. There are three main sec...
Yes: there is a cap of 100 users per brand token economy. If you wish you add more users, please contact us at email@example.com.
Each user is airdropped 10 Brand Tokens when their wallet is set-up.
At the moment, no. The easiest way to receive more tokens is to request another user to send you some :)
Yes. We recommend you invite your colleagues so you can send and receive tokens with each other. To invite more users, login to OST Platform and select Wallet. Or navigate to the following URL https://platform.ost.com/testnet/wallet
OST Wallet App is running on Ethereum testnet. Transactions do not involve real value.
Yes. Click on any transaction to view the transaction details on the side chain / blockchain. The transactions details are shown via OST VIEW, our block explore for the side chains.


text:
Since our launch in Spring 2018, Hydro has been committed to blockchain products that really matter. We initially launched our first product called Raindrop as a blockchain based multi-factor authentication that rivals the highest competition in the space. After that, we have Snowflake, a blockchain identification system, along with the upcoming Tide, a crypto and blockchain payment app that streamlines the peer-to-peer crypto process.
We have many more products on the roadmap and we have done all this without the need to launch an ICO and in the heart of arguably the worst year for cryptocurrency and blockchain products in 2018. Hundreds of companies that raised an embarrassing amount of money failed to sustain enough to even keep the doors open. But we have succeeded without a single dollar raised – a hydrating relief that we are here to commit to great products.
Anatomy of Blockchain
Blockchain technology is the heart of the cryptocurrency and digital asset econosphere. With blockchain, we have discovered a plethora of possibilities on what we can do in the future for things like security, payments, records, data, and much more. The inherent features of blockchain can vary but typically include core features such as decentralization, encryption, and openness (by either open source or a public ledger to all participants, or both). If you want to learn more about blockchain in general, check out this guide.
So what does blockchain and Project Hydro have in common? Certainly, the products are made with blockchain technology. Yet what makes us unique and successful is how Project Hydro is modeled after the way blockchain ecosystem works.
Project Hydro and the Vision of Blockchain
One thing Project Hydro excels in is the example we give in the blockchain and cryptocurrency space by modeling our method of operation much like how blockchain technology is today.
Decentralization – just like blockchain technology, a key element in our operation is that we all do different things but are all on an equal footing. Each person and component of Project Hydro is just as important as the other, whether this is developing apps, articles and public relations, marketing, sales and more.
Encryption – we are secure by default, bringing you projects like Raindrop and ERC-1484 prove to you that we think about security naturally.
Openness – we are open source on our products and have a welcome stance to ask us any questions and showing you progress.
The Team Behind the Scenes
We have a globally distributed, agile framework loving team. Every member is as important as the next one, bringing the best quality possible. This allows us to work both independently and as a team to strive in all areas.
What kind of roles do we have?
- Developers Blockchain ecosystem can't be done without people coding the blockchain themselves! This team is hard at work behind the scenes brewing up the next great thing! You can learn more about development at Hydro through our HCDP Bounty Program
- Designers Just like Doc Brown from Back to the Future said "if you're going to make something, why not do it in style!" Designers make everything look great!
- Social Media/PR Working on the front lines, this team helps communicate directly with people like you to vocalize our roadmap! Writers! This team is committed to make sure everything is communicated the best way possible.
- Business Development Developing awesome products but not sharing them in the market space would be a job half-done. Our Sales team works round the clock with global clients, partners, and exchanges, ensuring Hydro is on top of their radar.
Could You Be the Next Team Hydro Member?
We have a dedicated goal to bring you the best in blockchain with creativity, innovation, and security. We are always welcoming new members to help be part of this as well. Our Hydro Community Contributors is a special wall-of-fame dedicated to our amazing community members.
If you like what Project Hydro is all about and believe you are a great fit, please apply at projecthydro.org or write to us at [email protected]


text:
Choosing A Personal Injury Attorney
- March 8, 2018
- Jake
- No comments
If you have been injured through no fault of your own and have not been healing properly it might be time to consult a personal injury lawyer . This course of action might seem a bit drastic to some, but consider the other option. Not seeking…


text:
Softeq is a leading company in the IT industry and in operation for 20+ years serving clients across the world in different software domains. The company offers a rare environment where software and hardware team work together as one entity to produce hi-tech applications and digital software. Softeq provides high-performance web and mobile services including iOS, Android, BlackBerry, Windows, Native, Hybrid, Cross-platform, and Xamarin Development.
- Chris Howard
- >200
- email@example.com
- 1997
- $10k-$15k
- +1-281-552-5000


text:
Welcome to our News Section. Here we post our news articles.
Please use the posts listed on the right hand side to view older articles.
Success at the RDA Regional Show
On 12th May 2019 our group attended the RDA Regional Show in Crosby. Katie Riley competed on Boo in Countryside Challenge and dressage classes. She has qualified for the RDA National Championships taking place later in the year.
Fallon also qualified for the National Championships Arts and Crafts competition in the sculpture category.
Pegasus RDA Newsletter May 19
Pegasus RDA Horse
We are proud to announce that as of May 2019 we now joinly own Cooper aka Bob the Cob with North Cheshire Equestrian Centre. Cooper is currently settling in but will be joining our lessons soon!
Please find below links to previous editions of our newsletter.
Pegasus RDA Newsletter Oct 18
Pegasus RDA Newsletter Dec 17
Pegasus RDA Newsletter May 19


text:
That's enjoyment! There's no question about it, your visitors are going to have a good time at a Hollywood concept party. The combination of silver display environment and cinematic activities will guarantee you rave reviews. Make certain that the place you decide to consider a energy nap in, is not very noisy. When you go to take a power nap ensure that there is absolute silence or some calming music that helps your thoughts relax which is the primary objective of the energy nap.
Underground Hip Hop Producers is the most favored songs because it has a very calming effect on the thoughts. Depending on the place exactly where you rest, you can see if you would like some modifications to the lights whilst going to take a energy nap. This is optional, and as mentioned it depends on the place and also the individual's choice. Midway- Monday Might 30th at 11 PM. A sprawling Pacific theater epic from 1976 detailing the titular fight. This movie has Charleton Heston, Peter Fonda, and legendary character actor James Coburn?
Yes make sure you. This would have been an amazing set to get to evaluation, but sadly I could only get a sampler CD. This disc pulled together fourteen tunes, including radio hits "29 Palms," of which I can never get enough, and "Ship Of Fools," which is 1 of the soundtracks to my lifestyle. It also has B-sides, "Far Publish" and "Oompa (Watery Bint)," and previously unreleased songs. "Turnaround" is traditional Plant with a rocking blues beat and his cool melodic vocals.
I swear that this guy seems just as great in 2006 as he did back again when Jimmy and John heard him wailing the blues in 1968. An additional unreleased demo is a sweat tune known as "Rollercoaster". A jazzy, retro keyboard sound offers the backdrop as Plant causally recants a tale of adore in almost a whisper. After our celebration, we instantly moved to Muhlhausen exactly where Johann had already begun his function several months previously. I will now be with Johann to support him, offer a home for him, and to encourage him in all his musical efforts.
The second query was, "When you began approaching companies for permission to use songs from their games, how did they respond? Were they skeptical or energetic?" This came as a little bit of a shock but Tommy stated "They believed I was insane." Video game businesses basically went on to say, "Who would want to see a symphony perform instrumentals for video games?" He mentioned that Square Enix asked him who Nobuo Uematsu was, which, of program, Last Fantasy followers will inform you he worked on Final Fantasy VI's soundtrack , Last Fantasy VII's soundtrack, and Last Fantasy VIII's soundtrack.
Additionally Tommy mentioned that from the time they began planning it took three years to get to the first display. Listen to their tune quality: An additional essential tip to hire a wedding ceremony band is to do a comprehensive listen to numerous wedding songs bands before using the final decision.


text:
Environmental Management Research Themes
JCU has many world-renowned researchers who undertake cutting-edge research in their chosen field of environmental science and management.
We are at the forefront of research in a number of environmental science and management themes, including:
Corporate Environmental Management
As a multidisciplinary research theme, corporate environmental management builds on expertise from the disciplines of science, engineering, business, law and governance. We study what drives, impacts and determines corporate environmental practices and explore theoretical issues. Our research is varied, cutting across industries and issues such as sustainable and climate finance, mapping environmental and social co-benefits of corporate activities, corporate resilience, implications of the transition to a clean economy, sustainability, the theory and practice of corporate social responsibility and environmental disclosure.
Development Studies
Diedrich, Law, Sims, King, Gurtner
At JCU our development studies program draws on multidisciplinary expertise to critically interrogate the world's most prominent social, political, economic and environmental challenges. Key themes of research include: Environmental governance and sustainable resource management, poverty alleviation, inequality, geopolitics of development, disaster relief, urban transformations, community well being, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Students of development studies at JCU will work collaboratively with a broad range of stakeholders to acquire the academic expertise and practical field-based skills required to undertake diverse career pathways and to make positive changes in the world.
GIS and remote sensing
Duce, Joyce, Smithers, Dawson, Bainbridge, Beaman
We use satellite, airborne, shipborne, and field survey data to map and monitor the environment. Technologies used include drones and state of the art GIS software platforms. Ongoing projects include mapping the Great Barrier Reef, mapping reef islands on the GBR and further abroad, monitoring water circulation and thermodynamics on the reef, documenting sites of archaeological significance, long-term mangrove monitoring, coastal erosion and horticultural yield estimates.
Human-Environment Interactions
Diedrich, Benham, Lim, Nelson, Smithers, Duce
The conservation, sustainable use, and production of natural resources can only occur in conjunction with resilient, adaptive, and receptive societies. This research theme focuses on understanding the feedbacks and interaction between humans and the biophysical environment in a variety of contexts and settings. Our research spans a multitude of sectors such as ports, aquaculture, fisheries, farming and protected areas and societies throughout the tropical world.
Physical Geography and Geomorphology
Haig, Nott, Smithers, Wasson, Dawson, Duce, Bainbridge
This group examines the physical surface features of the Earth. There is a strong focus on the health and functioning of tropical riverine catchments and coastal environments and reconstructing climate and environmental change through a range of long-term natural archives. Specific projects include catchment sediment sources and transport rates, coral reef and reef island development and change, long-term patterns of extreme natural events and coastal change over time.
Urban Design and Planning
Gurtner, Harwood, King, Law, Sims, Tavares
Our researchers are committed to understanding complex land use and development issues in settlements across the tropics, in particular in Australasia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific. Our focus is on environmentally responsive and inclusive urban design, indigenous and remote settlement planning and disaster management strategies. We have close connections to government, industry and community stakeholders through our Tropical Urbanism and Design Lab and the Centre for Disaster Studies.
Water and soil science
Lim, Nelson, Smithers, Bainbridge, Orr, Bird
We study the processes and conditions of water and soil in natural and managed ecosystems of the tropics, including the cycling and transformations of carbon, nutrients and contaminants. This allows us to develop ways of improving the productivity and biodiversity of agricultural soils, improving the health of aquatic and marine ecosystems and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For more information visit our Land and Water Science Group web page.


text:
Weblink Items (6)
30 Years of the PC: A Timeline | PCMag.com
The last three decades have seen incredible changes in the concept of the personal computer. We have the biggest events of the last 30 years.
Personal Computers: A History of the Hardware That Changed the World
It's 30 years since IBM launched its first "Personal Computer," so we've taken a look back at some highlights of the information age.
70 Years of Supercomputers [Infographic]
The so-called supercomputer is now 70 years old, at least if you have a very expansive definition of supercomputer. The first supercomputer was used for government work during ...
Teaching Kids about Tropical Storms & Hurricanes
Learning about hurricanes and science.
BagTheWeb Recommends
Related Bags (0)
No bags have been linked.
BagTheWeb Suggests
Juvenile Prison Outreach for Libraries
A compilation of "best practice" resources for youth services librarians who are interested in or are currently providing outreach services to juvenile detention centers.
Abney and Associates
We know about the 10 kinds of people. (You know, those who can read binary and those who can't.) This is PC Speak: An Abney and Associates Internet and Technology Research Lab - Technology related to every day life!
Dyman & Associates Risk Management Projects
Dyman & Associates Risk Management Projects utilizes its decades-old track record in cyber security to provide protection for your employees, intellectual property, and other precious assets. Our consultants not only have many years of experience, but are also dedicated to the regular honing of their skills and keeping current on the innovations in...
Westward Group Alternatives
Westward Group Energy Alternatives is an autonomous service for patrons who want to save cash on their gas and energy bills. http://westwardalternatives.com/
Real Resume Help
Real Resume Help A resume is more than just a collection of dates and job functions. It is a sales pitch on your behalf. In fact, most resumes concentrate on dates and job functions, but decision makers don't care about what you did on a daily basis as much as how you affected the organizations you served, as that is the best indicator of the value you...


text:
Our Italian restaurant has the finest dinner menu in Bergen County.
Sandwich Platters Catering Saddle River NJ
Order Online
No time for an evening out? Just place your order online to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine for pickup or delivery.
Looking to save some money at a beautiful Italian restaurant in Bergen County? See what coupons we currently have available!
Are you looking for full service Italian catering in Bergen County NJ? Mangiamo Pizza Restaurant in Paramus is the only name you need to remember. A wide variety of delicious items that are both flavorful and fresh are capable of being found on our amazing menu. From wrap and hero platters to pasta and chicken Francaise trays, you'll be sure to find something which is going to meet the needs of your guests. A hot buffet is a great alternative that all of your guests will be sure to enjoy. One of the best things about hot buffets is that they can be customized to fit your preferences. Also, they are available for whatever size group you require. Not seeing an alternative on our website for the size of your group specifically? All you've got to do is contact us and make a custom arrangement. We are committed to making certain all of your needs are met when it comes to full service Italian catering in Bergen County NJ.
Catering Bergen County NJ
Are you looking for full service Italian catering in Bergen County NJ? Excellent tasting and authentic Italian cuisine is exactly what you are going to find at Mangiamo Pizza Restaurant. We're here to make things easy for you so you're able to focus on your event instead of being worried about the food. Our staff has a considerable amount of experience handling a broad array of kinds of events, so you're capable of being certain you will receive the service as well as the supplies you need. Complete customer satisfaction is what we strive for with every job that we perform. Your guests being totally satisfied is what we want, which isn't going to be an issue thanks to our extensive menu. Nobody has to be left out thanks to the broad array of vegetarian options we offer. These are all reasons why when you're in need of full service Italian catering in Saddle River NJ or the rest of the local area, there's no one else you've got to contact but Mangiamo Pizza Restaurant.
Corporate Catering Bergen County NJ
There is no job which is too big or too small when it comes to full service Italian catering in Bergen County NJ. Ensuring the experience is as stress free as possible by guiding your through the process is what our experts are here for, even if you aren't certain what your precise needs are yet. When it comes to events, we have a considerable amount of experience. Because of this being happy with the end result is something you're capable of counting on. Our staff is punctual, provides incredible tasting Italian food prepared fresh for your event, and offers impeccable service. Your guests are going to be certain to be satisfied because of this. Don't skimp when it comes to the quality of the food you offer if you want to leave your guests impressed when your event is over. Are you hoping to ensure that your event will be one to remember? Then be sure contacting Mangiamo Pizza Restaurant when you need full service Italian catering in Bergen County NJ is the first thing you do.


text:
Important facts that came to your attention just this morning can appear in your blog almost immediately. With no publishing deadlines and a quick publishing process, how fast you can get your information to your reader is limited only by how fast you can write. It is as immediate as you want (or need) it to be.
If you'd like, you may employ Web designers to make your blog look pretty, but many people can create an attractive, professional-looking blog from scratch in only a few hours. Blogs are easily manageable. If you want to make changes to the design of your blog, it's fairly easy to do so with just a few minutes' work. As an experiment, I created a blog from scratch in about half a day. Look for the results and some blogging resources at
Once your blog is online and your articles are in the hands of your readers, you have the opportunity to receive immediate feedback. How often have you wanted to write a letter to the editor after reading a provocative article? Blogs let your readers do just that: they can interact. If you allow readers to post comments, they can start a discussion with you or among themselves.
One of the biggest concerns for anyone who has a website, e-zine or online newsletter is, "How do I get my site noticed?" Blogs help to solve that problem. True, you may restrict your blog to a private audience; or you may even password-protect it to limit your readership to subscriptions only. Yet, if you choose to make your blog publicly available, it will get noticed quickly. One useful strategy is to draw people to your blog, then redirect them by including link to your website. Blog hosting sites are one of the first places search engines go. In fact, one free blog hosting site is owned and operated by Google.
If you publish a blog, you'll want to know what an aggregator is. An aggregator is a small (low-cost or free) program that you can download from the internet and run on your desktop. Aggregators, like all browsers, read HTML (hypertext markup language -- the "source code" that creates websites). Aggregators can also read XML
(extended markup language), a brand of HTML that allows the aggregator to read and digest web contents electronically.
This electronic reading ability is called RSS (really simple syndication). When you see a small orange XML logo on a website, you know that website is available in RSS. You simply copy the link found at the XML logo and paste it into your aggregator's address bar and click on the syndicate button. Once your aggregator has syndicated the selected e-zine, online newsletter, or blog, it begins checking that site for new content regularly. It then delivers the new content to your desktop automatically. If you're the publisher, YOUR content will automatically end up on all your syndicators' desks!
Is a blog right for your business? The answer very much depends on what you want to accomplish. Blogs are not good for keeping static content: things about you and your business that seldom change. That belongs on a static website. If you create a blog, your readers will expect to see content regularly. Also, remember that public blogs can be very public. Yet, for immediacy, manageability, interactivity, as well as for price, building community, and promotion, it's hard to beat a
Les Brown, MA, CFCC, co-founder of ProActivation (http://www.proactivation.com), is an innovator and change strategist who helps clients to effect deep and lasting change in their personal and professional lives. Read more about Les in the
WABC Coach Directory. He may be reached by email, at: email@example.com.
Return to In This Issue.
Click here to view or print entire issue for easy reading.
Copyright © 2002-2005 WABC Coaches Inc. All rights reserved.


text:
Sharpening Photos with the Photoshop Unsharp Mask
The Photoshop Unsharp Mask tool has a tendency to confuse people. Not because it's difficult to use but because the name seems odd. Before we venture into how to use this tool there are a couple of things to get out of the way:
- The Photoshop Unsharp Mask is a sharpening tool and is used to make images sharper.
- The name Unsharp Mask comes from a traditional (pre digital) process of sharpening photos by using a blurred copy of the image to be sharpened, hence the term Unsharp. You don't need to know anything about this in order to use the tool.
As we will be sharpening the following image using this tool.
It doesn't matter that the image is black and white, the process is the same for colour images. In the following shot we have zoomed in to 100% magnification on the face of the statue.
We can see that the image is in focus but that the fine details are a little soft and will benefit from sharpening.
The Photoshop Unsharp Mask Controls
To open the Photoshop Unsharp Mask dialog select "Filter | Sharpen | Unsharp Mask…" from the menu. You can see an example of the dialog below.
The dialog contains a small preview window which shows the effect of the sharpening. This shows at 100% magnification by default but the level of magnification can be changed using the + and – magnifying glass icons. You can also change the area of the image you are zoomed into by clicking on a point on the main image.
The three controls available in the dialog are "Amount", "Radius" and "Threshold". To understand what these do you first need to understand how sharpening works.
How Sharpening Works
Image sharpening is actually an optical illusion. Imaging for a moment that you have drawn a picture with a light grey pen. As you stand back to admire the image you will find the image isn't very clear and it's difficult to pick out the details. You therefore take a darker pen and draw around the outline of elements to make them better defined. Now when you stand back you can see the image more clearly.
Sharpening works by increasing the contrast along edges in the image, similar to the outlining example above. It does this by looking for differences in contrast levels between adjacent pixels and then increases this contrast further. This increase in contrast is controlled by the "Amount" slider. The higher the level of the Amount, the greater the contrast introduced and so the greater the sharpening effect.
Going back to our example of the drawing, the pen you used to draw the darker outline could have a narrow nib or a wide nib. If you used a wide nib the lines you draw will be thicker and so more obvious to see. How thick a pen you need to use will depend on how dark it is (the darker it is the easier it will be to see) and how far you stand back to admire the image. The further back you stand, the thicker the lines need to be that you draw otherwise you risk not being able to see them. The "Radius" slider controls how "thick a line we draw" when we apply the sharpening.
Previously we said that sharpening works by detecting the contrast difference between adjacent pixels. Some pixels may have a large contrast difference whilst others have a small difference. Putting this into context with our drawing example, we might only outline the strongest most obvious lines.
In the Photoshop Unsharp Mask dialog this is controlled by the "Threshold" slider. Where there is a low threshold setting there needn't be a big difference in contrast in order to apply sharpening. At higher levels you are only sharpening those pixels where there is already a strong contrast difference.
Why this is Important
If you are wondering why this is important, think again about the drawing example. If you were to outline everything with a very dark pen with a wide nib, this might look OK close up. But stand further back and your image would now lack obvious fine detail and would probably appear very false. Using the Threshold slider allows you to fine tune the sharpening so that it's appropriate to the level of detail and the expected viewing conditions.
What you may have realised from this discussion is that there are no magic settings that will work for every image. It's necessary to sharpen every image based on the level of detail in the image and the expected viewing conditions. For example you could be sharpening the same image for viewing on screen and for print output but it would be essential to produce two different versions of the image. The same sharpening couldn't be used for both purposes.
And in terms of the starting example photo, here is the before and after version of the image viewed at 50% magnification. First the version without sharpening.
Then the version with sharpening.
And finally the sharpening settings in the Photoshop Unsharp Mask dialog.
Get Essential Adobe Photoshop CC
The fastest way way to learn Adobe Photoshop CC.
30 day, no questions money back guarantee
Further Information
Learn more about using advanced Photoshop techniques in my Photoshop Layers and Mastering Photoshop Masks books. You can find these in the Lenscraft shop.
FREE Book Offer
Get "6 Steps to Shooting Brilliant Landscape Photography" FREE!
Subscribe to my monthly newsletter for your free copy.
I will never share or SPAM your email.


text:
Nasdaq Riga decided to list AS "Storent Investments" bonds on Baltic Bond list as of June 29, 2018.
Additional information:
AS "Storent Investments" bond prospectus attached.
Nasdaq Baltic
Issuer Services
+371 67212431
Nasdaq Baltic is a common name for exchanges, regulated markets, alternative markets First North operated by Nasdaq companies in the Baltic states, i.e. Nasdaq Tallinn AS, Nasdaq Riga, AS and AB Nasdaq Vilnius.
Doc Storent prospectus 20180628 eng sign (ID 409217).pdf


text:
Didcot TRAIN works with young people who are at risk of educational failure, crime, child sexual exploitation, alcohol and substance abuse, and other risky behaviours. OCF funded their Young Leaders Programme, which turned the lives of a small cohort of young people around.
Didcot TRAIN Youth Project focused on improving the prospects of a small group of 10 young people (five girls and five boys). At the outset most of the group struggled with low self-confidence; having problems with school; and presenting challenging behaviour. Some of the group were known to the local police for low-level anti-social behaviour, and some were known for more serious crimes.
The charity partnered with Oxfordshire Youth to design a Young Leaders Programme for the cohort. This involved a residential away from home carrying out a series of physical challenges and teamwork; formal education, including written log books to help put the experiences into practice; and several social action projects that saw young people fundraise and campaign for local causes.
The programme resulted in a Level 2 Award in Leadership and Team Skills, and is accredited by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM). It is therefore nationally recognised, meaning that employers, colleges and universities will hold it in high regard, and it is also considered equivalent to an A*- C grade at GCSE.
The grant was made by OCF's #iwill youth social action funding, made possible by investment by the Big Lottery and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. Funding from the #iwill programme is distributed by community foundations all over the UK. In common with other youth social action projects, Didcot TRAIN's programme had a double benefit – making a huge difference to the young people involved, but also to the local community.
Participants gained confidence and self-esteem thanks to the programme. One young person is now acting as a representative for Oxfordshire Youth Voice Committee, and another who was previously a young offender has since been nominated for two awards from Princes' Trust. Two young people who were not in education, employment or training (NEET) at the start of the programme went on to full-time education, and another who has an autism-spectrum disorder has been accepted into university.
As a result of the young people's engagement they have gained enthusiasm and a desire to involve themselves within their community. The group organised and delivered two social actions: a collaboration with Secret Santa where Young Leaders helped delivered leaflets around Didcot, and a fundraising event during Didcot Christmas Street Fair. They were involved in a church clean-up, and acted as representatives for the young people in the local area by attending community meetings.
In common with many of the projects OCF has funded, this has been an example of how people receiving help through our funding go on to help others, creating a virtuous cycle. One of the young people on the programme was not attending school and often met Didcot TRAIN's youth workers in the field. During the preparations for the Young Leaders Programme they decided to return to school, and on the residential weekend they showed newfound leadership skills, motivated others and overcame their weaknesses. The young person said: "Due to the Young Leaders Programme, I have not only gained confidence in myself, but also helped to build confidence in others."


text:
Runners wait at the starting line prior to crossing the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge at the start of the TCS New York City Marathon on Nov. 1, 2015 in the Staten Island borough of New York City.
Clouds cast shadows over the Larung valley and its Larung Wuming Buddhist Institute, one of the biggest centers to study Tibetan Buddhism in the world, in the remote Sertar county of the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan province, China, Oct. 30, 2015.
A Palestinian woman paints a mural, depicting a masked Palestinian holding a knife, in support of Palestinians committing stabbing attacks against Israelis, in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, Nov. 3, 2015.
Israeli soldiers take part in a night-time drill on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea near the southern city of Ashdod, Nov. 5, 2015.
Troy Parkinson riding Excess Knowledge from Gai Waterhouse Racing during a trackwork session at Altona Beach on Nov. 1, 2015 in Melbourne, Australia.
A seagull flies past a statue seen in silhouette at sunset in Marseille, France, Nov. 6, 2015.
A Qantas Boeing 737-800 plane flies through heavy rain as a storm moves towards the city of Sydney, Australia, Nov. 6, 2015. Powerful storms swept across the city on Friday, with the Australian Bureau of Meteorology issuing a warning for severe thunderstorms with large hailstones, heavy rainfall, and damaging winds.
Big wave surfer Sebastian Steudtner of Germany drops in on a large wave at Praia do Norte in Nazare, Portugal, Nov. 1, 2015. The Praia do Norte beach has become a famous beach for big wave surfers around the world since Hawaiian surfer Garrett McNamara got a world record for the largest wave surfed in 2011.
A man stands on the top of a tomb, as he waits for a voodoo ceremony, at the cemetery of Croix des Bouquets, on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Nov. 2, 2015.
A Syrian refugee holds a baby at the port of Mytilene on the Greek island of Lesbos, Nov. 5, 2015. Greece's prime minister conceded on Thursday that the country was unable to cope with the thousands of migrants arriving daily on its shores, just days after saying that he was shamed by Europe's handling of the crisis.
A tree is partially fog covered near Mintraching, southern Germany, on Nov. 1, 2015.
An excavator is seen as peatland forest is cleared by burning for a palm oil plantation at a company's grounds on Nov. 1, 2015 in the outskirts of Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. The air pollution or haze has been an annual problem for the past 18 years in Indonesia. It's caused by the illegal burning of forest and peat fires on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo to clear new land for the production of pulp, paper and palm oil. Desperate civilians at the epicenter of Indonesia's haze crisis are taking the fight into their own hands, using whatever meager resources they have to confront the fires ravaging their communities as they tire of waiting for the government to take action. This disaster has been exacerbated by this year's long dry season, triggered by the El Nino weather phenomenon.
A deer stands on a field covered in spiders' silk as sun sets on Nov. 2, 2015 in Sieversdorf, northeastern Germany.


text:
Saco Father Jeffrey Monroe, Vicar of St. Augustine Anglican Church, announced to day the distribution of 75 backpacks with school supplies and other essentials for homeless public school students. The supplies were prepared and distributed by a junior members of the church for the school districts in Old Orchard Beach, Saco and Biddeford who will give the backpacks directly to students in their communities.
Today provides us with a wonderful example of church outreach support for student success. Our theme this year was 'Provide an Even Playing Field, said Father Monroe. When basic needs are not met they become barriers to attending school and learning. By providing these school and personal items, the church can help to remove some of those barriers. We Even the Playing Field. The supplies distributed today will go a long way for some of our neediest students, especially during these hard economic times.
The backpacks were stuffed by junior members of the parish. Jean Pierre Guillerault and his younger brother Antonie of Saco were joined by Danny Cheeks of Moosup, CT. They packed notebooks, crayons, glue sticks and other items into backpacks categorized into three different age groups. The categorized backpacks were delivered to the district offices by Danny Cheeks and other members of the St. Augustine family.
It is estimated that the Old Orchard Beach, Saco and Biddeford school districts will serve 75 homeless students at all grade levels. This project, then, has provided for 100% of these students. This project was funded through bottle drives and yard sales held by the church's Outreach Committee. Other projects provided by the Committee included support of the Saco Food Bank, providing clothing and other items to the York County Homeless Shelter and the Bicycles for Foster Children Project held every Christmas.
St. Augustine of Canterbury has a vibrant and growing congregation and is a member of the Anglican Church in America and the worldwide Traditional Anglican Communion and remains faithful to the Holy Bible and worships according to the traditional Book of Common Prayer. The parish worships at 168 North Street (the Grange Building) in Saco, Maine at 10:00 a.m. on Sundays. The parish is led by Reverend Jeffrey Monroe, Vicar and Reverend Deacon Allen Ryan, Curate. For information call 229-8700.
The Rev. Deacon Allen A. Ryan, 4 Far View Circle, Saco
Cell Phone: 207-229-8700


text:
15 years in fostering - Vaughan and Sian's story
Vaughan and Sian Jenkins from west Wales are both full-time carers. They work for a local authority scheme doing task-focused work with children with challenging behaviour, who are often at risk of going into custody or secure units.
Being in foster care feels like home - Amy's story
Amy is 12-years-old and is based on the Wirral.
Caring for teenagers - Andi's story
Andi lives in a small market town in the West Country and has been a foster carer for over 20 years.
Long-term fostering - Mark's story
Mark is a support worker for adults. He and his partner Kieran, a hairdresser, began fostering Will when he was 14-years-old. They live together in London.
Love and pride - Renee's story
Renee and her partner Jacqueline have been fostering for nearly 10 years.
My life as a fostered child - Pip's story
Nineteen-year-old Pip explains what it is like to be fostered.
Opening up our home - Abid and Shabnam's story
Abid and Shabnam live in Birmingham and have been foster carers for over 10 years.
Puzzle pieces - Jackie and Alan's story
Jackie and Alan have been foster carers for their local authority for over 10 years.
Transforming lives - Jim's story
Jim explains why becoming a foster carer is the best decision he ever made.
Whatever it takes - Sandie's story
Sandie has been a foster carer for over 10 years and lives in south London.


text: Vinyl Crisis spent time on the airwaves with Houston Person. Houston first became known for a series of albums for Prestige in the 1960s. There are more than 75 albums recorded by Houston Person as a bandleader, on Prestige, Westbound, Mercury, Savoy, and Muse, and he has most recently been recording on HighNote. Houston has recorded with Charles Brown, Ron Carter, Bill Charlap, Charles Earland, Lena Horne, Etta Jones, Lou Rawls, Janis Siegel, Horace Silver, Dakota Staton, Cedar Walton, Billy Butler, Don Patterson, Sonny Phillips, Johnny "Hammond" Smith, Richard "Groove" Holmes and many others. Enjoy our interview with the sax man and one of the coolest cats of all time!


text:
Chicken with lentils
An easy one-pot supper for a cold night, this is started off on the hob, then transferred to the oven to bake.
Serves 4
2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
4 garlic cloves, chopped
Leaves from 2 sprigs of rosemary (optional)
200g red lentils, well rinsed
500ml chicken or veg stock (from a cube is fine)
8 bone-in chicken thighs (skin on or off)
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Flat-leaf parsley, chopped, to finish (optional)
Preheat the oven to 180°C/Gas 4. Choose a flameproof casserole dish or a wide,ovenproof pan that will hold all the chicken pieces snugly but comfortably.
Put the casserole on a medium-low heat. Add the oil, then the onion and cook, stirring regularly, for 6–8 minutes until it begins to soften. Add the garlic, rosemary if using, and some salt and pepper. Cook gently for a further 5 minutes, then stir in the lentils and stock.
Season the chicken thighs and place in the casserole. Bring to a simmer on the hob, then transfer to the oven and bake, uncovered, for 1 hour. Check that the chicken is cooked right through and the lentils are soft. If not, return to the oven for 10–15 minutes and test again. Skim off any excess fat from the surface.
Taste the lentilly liquor and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve, scattered with chopped parsley if you like, just as it is or with steamed broccoli or greens on the side.
Share your recipes and images online with us using #NewcastleCan and #BritainsFatFight.
Recipe adapted for Newcastle Can from River Cottage Light & Easy by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall (Bloomsbury)
Photography © Simon Wheeler


text:
Our site uses cookies to allow easier access for Members and subscribers and to improve our site. You agree to our use of cookies by closing this message box or continuing to use our site. To find out more, see our Privacy Policy.
Join! ►
BARE BONES content is posted to these pages in real time.
Monthly compilations are available in PDF form.
RTI Surgical achieved the milestone of 5,000 implants of Fortilink®-C, -TS and -L interbody fusion systems in the U.S. Fortilink-C IBF for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion launched in 4Q17, and was the first in a family of devices to incorporate TETRAfuse® 3D Technology. The -TS and -L systems followed in 2Q18, for use in lateral lumbar interbody fusion and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion or bilateral posterior lumbar interbody fusion, respectively. TETRAfuse 3D features a nano-rough surface with antibacterial characteristics designed to participate in fusion without compromising mechanical integrity or radiographic visibility. (RTI Surgical Holdings, Inc., 6/6/19)


text:
Welcome to BlackGirlsPictures. Here you will find free content.
Share with friends
Related materials
0 2170
Just a skinny girl with nice boobs on bed 5.
0 3378
Login Sign Up.
0 2788
0 4089
Teen beauty with big natural tits rubs her love tunnel.
0 3896
Ebony Twink Takes Cock
0 1746
Suggest new Production x.
0 3642
Old black big asses.
0 1156
Seductive bums recorded on voyeur's hidden camera.
0 1026
This beautiful blonde is getting naughty while playing with her phone, so she lies back on her couch, spreading her legs wide open and massaging her wet cunt over her soft cotton panties.
0 2013
Mexican BBW takes on 2 black cocks.
0 4087
Mass Indian Sex Tube gives you big collection of indian porn.
0 1067
FFP - Exclusive photos and siterips in one place.


text:
Sorry for the rough voice this week. Content planned for this episode will be shared next episode.
Take care and Happy New Year.
– Dave
Sorry for the rough voice this week. Content planned for this episode will be shared next episode.
Take care and Happy New Year.
– Dave
I'm quickly approaching ninety days since returning to ministry which finds me day to day in the local church. And for that all I can say is I'm grateful. I thought I'd would be good for posterity to share some reflections on this return.
I'm Preaching Without Notes
This has been one of the biggest changes since the last time I was preaching to the same people week in and week out. Folk that know me half-decently know that I'm a wordsmith and that I love crafting just the right turn of phrase. There's nothing wrong with this. It just turned out that in my first 15 years of preaching, I either fretted about that phrase to the point of doing nothing but reading my manuscript or I would work so hard at memorizing my manuscript that the first hiccup would derail to that there was no chance of return. There's 2 particular Sunday's I'd prefer to forget and hope, one day I will.
A three different things clicked for me during me three year journey away from the local church:
Where to Spend Energy
One of the great lessons I learned from our CEO while at my appointment to a nonprofit was that I could not control when (or whether) folks would trust me. All I could control was whether or not my actions are trustworthy. A large part of this in my first 90 days is how I spend my time and energy. And I have been spending a large part of my time investing in leaders–both those who are on staff and those in elected office. I'm listening to a lot stories, asking lots of questions and telling my own story, as well. I cannot tell you how important this has been.
Confidence in the Midst of Ambiguity
This is the other lesson I've learn and I really cannot tell you how important this is. First, let me be clear about what this is not–I'm not talking about arrogance, neither am I talking about deceiving folks. Confidence that has nothing backing it up, nor one that lacks any sense of a kingdom-minded trajectory soon rings hollow. And to "fake it until you make it" when it comes to vision is vulgar and disingenuous.
Confidence comes from a few different places:
I'm sure none of this is new but I'm grateful for the lessons learned in extension ministry and to share those lessons learned.
There's a whole other blog to share about finally learning good business and administrative practices. That will come later.
Albergues—you gotta love 'em.
Seriously, you do. Anyone who has done a lot of backpacking through Europe will probably think of—and mistakenly call them—hostels. All the accoutrements of a hostel are there—dorms filled with bunk beds, shared communal bathrooms, lockers, opportunities to wash your clothes in a tub, and hard-limit lights out.
There are differences, though. Namely, these are:
Beyond these three, albergues and hostels are pretty similar. Never been in a hotel before? Keep reading….
There are definite codes of conduct for albergues—mostly they can be summed up in the rule of be courteous and respectful. But for some helpful remdinders, here's a few details:
Recommended Albergues
The below are albergues that I have stayed in and I highly recommend each of them.
Sarria- Albergue La Casona de Sarria: On the eastern outskirts of Sarria, this albergue gives you either a head start on the day's walk or let's you have a few minutes extra sleep! The property has 2 medium sized dorms as well as double/ twin accommodations. There's a large cubbie in the room for your stuff. There are men's and women's bathrooms and the bathrooms are arranged so that even the most modest won't have any issues—and plent of hot water. The hosts provide disposable sheets, pillow, and blanket. There are reading lights at each bunk as well as a power outlet to recharge your phone and keep it nearby. The owners love engaging pilgrims and offer a happy hour with complementary drinks—coffee, soft drink, matcha, beer, and wine. The owners also are great to recommend a restaurant for dinner and will call ahead for you.
Portomarín- Albergue Gonzar: Probably my least favorite. It was a great location, at the top of the steps climbing into Portomarín—and there was a bar on the main floor, which was convenient for snack and breakfast. There were only 2 bathrooms, each with one toilet and shower. Again, the host provided blankets, pillows, and disposable sheets. The amazing part about this albergue was that the host did our laundry for us—4 Euro to wash, 4 Euro to dry. There were lockable lockers for our stuff. There was not an ample supply of power outlets—which were all taken up by a group of inspiring men in their 70's. They had been friends for years and walked part of the Camino together. They all had CPAPs which was both loud and strangely soothing. And they took up the few power outlets. The establishment did have WiFi.
Palas de Rei—Albergue A Casina di Marcello: Another albergue on the outskirts of town. Another opportunity to get an early start or sleep a little later. The owner, Marcello, is great and a jovial host. His albergue is cozy, clean. Probably my favorite shower. He has laundry facilities (4 Euro to wash, 4 to dry). He'll also cook dinner for 10 Euro. We chose not to and went out for pizza. He offers fresh linens to guests, a pillow, and blankets. I like that each lower bunk has a curtain to tamp down on light. There's also a power outlet for every bunk, has WiFi. He also seems to have drinks available for purchase in the afternoons. I will say that you either need to get your breakfast the night before or be prepared to wait a while. It's a walk to the first cafe.
Ribadiso— Pension Albergue Los Caminantes. I loved this village and this albergue. There were 3 establishments in the village—the municipal albergue (owned by the government), a private albergue (possibly regularly staffed by American volunteers?) and a cafe. That's it. The albergue had many rooms, which it seems they had the option of partitioning during slower seasons. During high season its just first come first serve bed-wise. Again, there was a blanket, Pillow, and sheets. There was laundry and WiFi. This was the one place where there was the potential for a little embarrassment for the modest. The bathrooms were unisex—but the toilets were in each of their own private rooms. The showers had walls between the shower heads—and were completely enclosed, even if the walls were opaque glass. For a tall person like myself (6'4") if I didn't follow the golden rule of Albergues—don't stare at another person's junk—there could have been the potential to get an unintended eye-full! Thankfully I was the only one in the bathroom when I showered—and I was quick. I think what I loved about this albergue was that this was the one night we didn't stay in a town—so we were "forced" if you will to socialize more with the folks we were staying with.
O Pedrouzo- Albergue Mirador de Pedrouzo. From a sheer quality of accommodation, this place was tops. A converted large house, this place had just opened. There were several smallish dorms—each with clean sheets, blanket, pillow, reading light and power port. There was a lockable locker and there were many, many bathroom—all newly installed or remodeled—throughout the building. I will say this was the one place I had a cold shower. Apparently I timed it poorly. They had laundry facilities, a cafe, WiFi and what looked like would eventually be a restored pool. Found as you are coming into town, this albergue is along the route but unlike others, you'll have to get an early start—especially if you want to make it into Compostela for the pilgrim mass. This one was a little more expensive—14 Euro per night. But it was worth it. This was also the only place where they gave us key cards to get in and out of the building. I passed out before I found out if there was a hard lock-out time.
Santiago de Compostela- Hotel Rua Villar. I certainly do recommend, if you can afford it, to splurge a little when you get to Santiago. While you might assume the only place to stay in relative luxury is the Parador, there are many 2 or 3 star hotels that seem like the lap of luxury. I loved Hotel Rua Villar. You were not even a block away from the Cathedral. They have breakfast available, happy hour. Bathrooms are en suite. WiFi is great and there was air conditioning! They even had room service if you wanted it. I would note, especially if you haven't travelled in Europe much, that there's a difference between twin and double rooms. A double room is one double bed. A twin room is 2 twin beds, often pushed together. My very favorite thing about this hotel from a customer service view was this: I sent everything I didn't need on the Camino ahead to the hotel. They held and had my extra bag in my room upon arrival. They helped me check into my flight and even helped arrange a taxi to the airport at an ungodly hour of the morning.
Are there other places to stay along the Camino besides Albergues? Heavens no! All along the Camino there are pensiones (lower cost hotels akin to a bed and breakfast) and even the occasional hotel. They just aren't as frequent. But your travel costs are going to go up. Many folks seem to budget staying in either a double room in an alburgue or in a pension once per week—to knock the dirt off, talk a long shower or not have to worry about an early check out.
I also heard a couple tell of a farmhouse they stayed in. The owner opened their home, provided 2 amazing meals and gave them a lovely room to stay in. Accommodations like these—pensiones and farmhouse arrangements usually require some booking or enquiring at the tourist office in the local municipality.
Part of traveling anywhere that is not "home" is experiencing (and hopefully enjoying) the local cuisine. The Camino is no different. Each region has its own unique twists on common themes. And when burning 5,000 calories per day, there's amply opportunity to try them all. So what's the food like in Spain? Read on to find out!
It's the most important meal of the day, right? Breakfast in Spain is simple. Most mornings my breakfast was a pastry of some sort—usually a chocolate croissant—and coffee.
But not just any coffee—cafe con leche. I don't know what alchemy Spanish cafe owners practice but they take coffee, milk, sugar, and turn it into this delightful elixir unlike anything I've had before—and I was a barista . It's not a latte. Its not cafe au lait. Neither is it Cuban coffee and it is definitely not coffee with milk and sugar. That said, like much of Europe, you are not going to find a "bottomless cup" of coffee like was have in many restaurants in the US. And if you don't want cafe con leche, you can always order a cafe americano (coffee + hot water) or cafe negro (coffee without water or milk).
About two hours after you finish breakfast, you've probably walked around 10km… a little over 6 miles. Time to gas up! For me this meant another cafe con leche and, probably a glass of fresh squeezed orange juice. To each I would have some variation of toast (with butter, with butter and jelly, with ham, with egg, with ham and egg—get the picture?). Spaniards call this tostada (sorry Taco Bell, yours doesn't cut it). Occasionally I would get a tortilla—think frittata, but not baked.
While stopped for my second breakfast, I would make sure I refilled my water bottle, got a stamp for my credencial, and did my first changing over of socks—to prevent blisters. Yep, I'd have second breakfast barefoot. When it was time to go, I'd don fresh socks, clip the already worn ones to my pack, and head out.
A couple of hours later it would be time to cycle The socks because its now time for—
The most common lunch food I had was a bocadilla—very crusty bread, Spanish ham (jamon iberico), and—if you're lucky—a little olive oil. I cannot tell you how spoiled I was eat fresh baked bread and not sandwich loaf slice. And the ham—thinly sliced and dry cured (but not smoked). I don't know how they do it but its amazing. To wash it down, there's always water, cafe con leche, or the regional American-style lager—low gravity but refreshing.
After that, its time to get the pack back on and head back on The Way because you've probably got another 2 hours of walking before arriving at where you are going to sleep or where ever you are going to stop for:
If it's going to be a long day walking, you'll need to keep your energy up. Maybe its time for a slice of Santiago cake and cafe con leche. Some folks simply sat down at a cafe and ordered a beer or two before finishing out their walking for the day.
Once in town and settled for the evening, its time for:
An early dinner (5 or 6). There's a couple of different options for dinner. Some pilgrims will huddle together with other pilgrims and cook for one another. This is a great community building exercise and a way to learn about other cultures. Sometimes the folks running the alburgue will offer a meal, for a nominal extra fee. If you're staying at one of the more rural alburgues, this might be your only option for dinner. In the larger towns you can eat at restaurants—most of whom will have a three-course pilgrim menu:
First Course—pasta, salad, or soup
Second Course—some kind of meat, fries
Third Course—Santiago cake, cheese cake, ice cream
On the table—bread, red wine
All of this food for 10 Euro! Is it the best food you ever ate? No. Is it tasty with plenty of calories (again, remember you're burning as much as 5,000 calories per day). Of course!
There's things you'll want to try along the way:
Just remember, some of these regional special meals—tapas, pinxtos, pulpo, paella will blow your budget. So save and spend accordingly.
If you budget 40 Euro per day for food, you'll live like a king. Need to economize? Buy breakfast and a picnic lunch in the local market. Drink water. Keep your discipline to the pilgrim menu at night. You can get by for 20-25 Euro per day this way.
While it is foolish to think that there's no preparation involved in walking The Way of St. James, its also… convenient… to think that it takes years of preparation to walk. In fact, it is one of the simpler trips to plan.
For most of us that are not retired or between jobs, we may or may not have unlimited time. Family, work, and other responsibilities can dictate how much time you have. Also, maybe you are worried about distances. Generally, folks can travel 20-30km per day. That's 120-180 km if you walk 6 days and rest 1 (a recommended practice). At an average of 160km per week, you could finish from St. Jean Pied-de-Port in 5 weeks But, if that's not appealing, there's a myriad of starting points but the major cities seem to be:
After you figure out how much time you've got, everyone I've talked to, every blog I've read, every podcast I've listened to begins with this advice—buy your ticket. When it comes to large international airports, you have 3 options:
I'm sure folks have their favorite travel sites but let me recommend:
This is simply the single most important purchase you will make. Factors to consider include:
This is the other major purchase you'll need to make—and make it early. You'll want to not only break your shoes in but go on several long walks to make sure your shoes fit well and don't rub. A word of warning—I broke my shoes in, wore then on long and short walks and never had an issue. In Spain, I couldn't keep my heel from slipping and wound up with blisters on both heels—ouch!! I survived but if I was walking longer, I would have had issues.
What shoes did people wear?
Folks that wore a fuller boot were comfortable with the familiarity but didn't like the weight. Trail runners loved the weight but sometimes felt like they didn't have a rigid enough shoe for some sections. Low-cut boot folks felt good about their choice but wondered if the lighter trail runner would work.
Another question folk ask about their shoes is whether to wear Gore-tex or not. I chose not—to wear ventilated shoes, as they are called. While you can keep your feet a little bit more dry when walking through puddles, on a rainy day it won't matter. What does matter is that Gore-Tex boots are hotter and if your feet sweat even the least bit, this can raise your potential for blister. Just like there's no one type of shoe, there not a right answer to this one, either.
For people who walk long distances of a Camino…. possibly those that are that walk shorter distances alone… find themselves walking with others at a similar pace. Of those, you'll get along with some more than others. The ones you get along with become your Camino Family.
What does a Camino Family do? They will look out for one another, share meals, tend to try to stay in the same alburgues, etc.
Since I walked with a very long time friend and we hadn't caught up in a few years, we kinda stuck to ourselves. If there had been a Camino Family, here's who mine would have been:
The first folks I met on the Camino was a family—husband, wife, and adult daughter. Given my daughter's determination that our family, of the same composition, will walk the Camino in a few year, I was intrigued. Every year the family did a big adventure and the Camino was their 2019 adventure. We saw them a lot the first day we walked and then nothing until the last day. We must up on Monte Gozo.. Mountain of Joy.
It was this family that took the above photo. We reciprocated, exchanged pleasantries and went on our way. We didn't see them again.
We met a young man that was taking the summer off his consulting job before heading to Law School. We never stayed in the same alburgue or walked together but we ended up stopping at the same places for food… a lot. So we shared several meals, coffees, and snack breaks. The last time we visited over a meal was in Santiago over tapas—a true delight.
One of the lessons I realized I needed to re-learned on the Camino was talking with folks just for the sake of talking—no agenda, no "sizing up" as to whether they could be a donor, no opening question of "what do you do for a living?", Just acknowledging each other's common humanity and that, for a season, we're sharing a common journey. In church work, many times when we ask someone about their faith journey or ministry they tell us what committees they serve on. When we meet someone in our communities, do we acknowledge them as a fellow human being and beloved child of God before we objectify them as a potential church member? This isn't an anti-evangelizing statement. Rather, its an acknowledgement that non-churched folk can smell inauthenticity and objectification a mile away. As my wife says, instead of trying to get people to like us, are we adding value to their lives?
The standing greeting on the Camino… to everyone is "Buen Camino"… "Good Way". You say it to everyone you meet that is a fellow pilgrim and every merchant of any sort that serves you sends you forth with this blessing.
One of my take-always from the Camino is seeking to—in some way big or small—bless the lives of each person with whom I come in contact. And it also starts with recognizing we're all fellow sojourner on the way.
One of the gifts that the Church received in the second half of the 20th Century was the liturgical renewal movement–both in the Roman Church as well as Protestantism. Ironically, both happened in response to the Second Vatican Council's Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy. There was an explosion of interest and activity in rewriting our liturgies loosely based on the same text given to the church by Hippolytus.
I have always relished that when I, a United Methodist, lead worship it is essentially in the same shape (and using many of the same words) as all the other flavors and tribes of Christianity. It has helped us live a little closer to Jesus' prayer that we might be one.
Walking into a pilgrim mass, I didn't know what to expect but in retrospect I should have. The priest was praying many of the same words I do when I lead worship. So I could connect with the service. Also, this meant that when there were congregational responses–the Creed, The Lord's Prayer, the Benedictus Qui Venice, the Memorial Acclamation, or others I not only knew where we were in the service but I could join in and pray the prayers in my own language.
Walking away from the Pilgrim Mass, my friend (an Episcopal Priest) and I were reflecting upon this phenomenon. We were approached by a younger British pilgrim–whom I believe remember her saying she started in Paris. She asked us if we understood the service so we explained not exactly the Spanish but how we knew the same service in English. She was someone who was not a person of faith but attended the masses. She had walked for weeks on end and these last 100km were valedictory as much as anything.
She kept asking questions… there was an openness there. Probably not looking to profess faith in Christ but at least process what she had experienced along this Christian pilgrimage route.I regret that as we were all turning towards the restaurants we parted company with her. My friend wanted pizza and, apparently, it was in a different direction.
We have so much more in common than what separates us and there's a real strength in that. It seems as if we're so bent to be original and innovative in the fleeting moment that we forget the rich shared language we have as a resource.
I think this rich legacy might be part of the renewed interest in The Way of St. James. We can speak of Ley Lines, the Milky Way, or even appropriate whatever sensibilities. But the Camino is deeply rooted in a 1,000 year old Christian tradition. And there's power in that. There was no difference in the dirt I walked on in Spain versus the dirt I walk on in the Georgia Mountains. The purpose is different, the destination is different and who has walked on that dirt is definitely different–Francis of Assisi, El Cid, Charlemagne, even Jed Bartlett!!
Tying into a deep tradition and finding belonging are two of the pieces I think churches need to pay heed to. How do we help those walking into our doors find those things without having to fly across the Atlantic? And how do we help people ask their questions, process them, and either ask deeper questions or live into the responses?
Yeah, there's lessons for the Church on the Camino, as well.


text:
Meeting Planner is on Wefunder Inc. They are not conducting a Regulation Crowdfunding campaign. You can follow them and get notified of their progress.
|Envato Tuts+ Series: Building Your Startup
|Preview (beta) launch
|Launch of Simple Planner
Meeting Planner is not conducting a Regulation Crowdfunding offering. Hosted by Wefunder Inc.
Privacy: We won't share your data, or post to your wall, without your permission.
Already have a Wefunder account? Login
Don't have a Wefunder account? Signup
Tell us the email you used to sign up, and we'll get you on your way.