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Ranked first among the "big four" operators in customer satisfaction by Consumer Reports, and hands down the network with the strongest marketing muscle nowadays, T-Mobile still has trouble markedly boosting its subscriber base.
People are often too comfortable or just outright lazy to ditch the carrier they've embraced years back, no matter their dissatisfaction for overage fees, meager coverage or high device prices. Not to mention all the exclusive benefits offered by Sprint to folks switching from T-Mobile, or Magenta itself when you hail from AT&T or Verizon.
Yes, disgruntled Big Red users, T-Mo has a freebie and important discount to give you for swapping carriers between tomorrow, December 11, and next Thursday, the 17. Namely, a gratis $100 Hulu gift code, which you can "spend" on a full year of "normal" service or eight-month ad-free subscription, and additional 50 percent off "select" accessories.
Wait, no, that's up to half off, and unfortunately, we don't have details on the exact savings applied to the "latest smartwatches, UE Boom and JBL Bluetooth speakers, top-of-the-line headphones, Fitbit fitness trackers and more."
Therefore, we're left dreaming of entry-level Apple Watch Sport configurations costing less than $200, absolutely no trade-in required, or perhaps a Fitbit Charge HR up for grabs at $75 as part of the promo. Maybe a $125 Moto 360? Come on, Magenta, give us something good, besides Hulu's amazing library of hit TV shows and hot movies, as well as unlimited LTE Binge On streaming, if you really want to throw a monkey wrench into the growth plans of America's already prevalent service provider.
Source: T-Mobile Newsroom


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Sime Darby expands in Asian vehicle distribution
Sime Darby Group, the diversified Malaysia's conglomerate, is rapidly becoming a significant regional automotive player following an aggressive campaign of acquisitions and organic expansion over the last two years. Established in 1910 as a rubber plantation company, the Sime Darby Group (SDG) now encompasses around 200 companies operating mostly in Asia and employing some 32,000 people, writes Tony Pugliese.
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subset: commoncrawl


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St. Paul Peterson -DNA Of A Legend Prince
California Ballroom A (Level 2) Hilton Hotel (adjacent to Anaheim convention center)
I'll be on this panel with Brent Fischer and Jacqui Thompson Every legend you know and love has a humble beginning. Becoming a legend takes hard work, laser sharp focus and a creative vision. We will explore DNA of the legend, PRINCE
Meet those who worked with Prince and helped realize his singular vision
From choosing musicians, arranger and music director for each album or live show, it takes matching skills, mixing personalities and more...finally you need an expert to promote your work and reach out to your fans! It all takes thoughtful orchestration that's made to look easy and produces results.
Join us for an inspiring afternoon at NAMM and recharge for 2019!


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Monthly Archives: February 2018
The LOVE BoatLeave a comment
February 24, 2018 by phicks2012
Years ago, not long out of college, I worked for a while as a travel agent, and, let me tell …
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Elevating My Lifestyle, Part TroisLeave a comment
February 13, 2018 by phicks2012
So, I blogged the other day about my latest campaign to get my home elevator running again without being mercilessly …
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A Wing & A Prayer?Leave a comment
February 10, 2018 by phicks2012
Okay, so the other day, while out-and-about, I was in the mood for chicken wings. There are still places that …
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"Imperfect Lives"Leave a comment
February 7, 2018 by phicks2012
I sometimes think that far to many human beings are motivated by fear. They hate those they believe are favored …
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The annual open enrollment period for all participants of the State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP) is January 1 to March 1 of each year. During this period, State ORP participants may change their State ORP service provider or, if eligible, may irrevocably elect to participate in the South Carolina Retirement System (SCRS).
Details about the 2019 open enrollment period are available online.
The Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR) for the South Carolina Retirement Systems for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, is now available. The 2017 PAFR is available on the Archives page.
The Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the South Carolina Retirement Systems for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, is now available. The 2017 CAFR is available on the Archives page.
Last week, the IRS announced an increase in the contribution limit for Medical Spending Accounts (MSAs) for 2019. The limit increased from $2,650 to $2,700. Employees who elected to contribute to an MSA during open enrollment may increase their contribution if they wish. Employees cannot decrease the contribution they elected during open enrollment.
Employees must complete a paper Notice of Election form and return to PEBA by December 15, 2018, to increase their contribution. Note, the NOE currently indicates $2,650 as the maximum contribution, but that will be updated to $2,700 soon.
The IRS announced an increase in the maximum deferral limit for 401(k) and 457 plans in 2019. For those who participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program (Program), the maximum deferral will increase from $18,500 to $19,000. This is the amount an employee can contribute to the Program from his paycheck. A Program participant may contribute up to $19,000 in the 401(k) plan and 457 plan, for a combined maximum of $38,000. Those who participate in an employer-sponsored 403(b) plan must coordinate deferrals to that plan with Program's 401(k) deferrals.
For participants who are age 50 and older, the catch-up limit remains the same for 2019 at an additional $6,000 in deferrals allowed under both the 401(k) and 457 plans. The special catch-up provision available under the 457 plan will increase from $37,000 to $38,000. A participant in the 457 plan may apply the greater of the regular catch-up provision or the special 457 catch-up provision, but not both.
The contribution limit for a Dependent Care Spending Account (DCSA) is capped at $1,700 for highly compensated employees. The IRS recently announced the salary used to define these employees will be $125,000 or greater in 2019. This is up from $120,000 in 2018. The contribution limit cap remains unchanged.
Employees who make $120,000, but less than $125,000, no longer have a cap on their DCSA contribution. As such, if they elected to contribute to a DCSA during open enrollment, they may increase their contribution if they wish. Their maximum contribution is determined by their tax filing status. Contribution limits are available here. Employees cannot decrease the contribution they elected during open enrollment.
Employees must complete a paper Notice of Election form and return to PEBA by December 15, 2018, to increase their contribution.
October 16, 2018
Power has been restored to PEBA's MoneyPlus administrator, WageWorks, which is located in Tallahassee, Florida. This means the FBMC systems used to access MoneyPlus accounts are now available.
September 12, 2018
Blue CareOnDemand video visits are being offered at no cost to State Health Plan primary members of zones impacted by Hurricane Florence. Through a video chat, which is available 24/7, members can talk to a doctor about issues like cold and flu symptoms, allergies, sinus infections, migraines, rashes and more. Doctors can even call in a prescription to the nearest pharmacy, if appropriate. Members can access Blue CareOnDemand through the mobile app or at www.bluecareondemandsc.com. Members should select "Hurricane Support" when starting their visit. This program has ended.
At its July 25, 2018, meeting, the South Carolina Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA) Board of Directors elected John A. Sowards chairman and Joe W. "Rocky" Pearce, Jr., vice-chairman of the PEBA Board.
Sowards has served on the PEBA Board since September 2012. He is former chairman of the board for Nexsen Pruet, a position in which he was responsible for shaping the firm's vision and strategy. A leader within Nexsen Pruet, his practice is focused on the areas of real estate, corporate and finance law.
Pearce, also a Board member since September 2012, has served as vice chairman since the Board's first elections in December 2012. He also chairs the Board's Health Care Policy Committee. Pearce, now retired, was Head of Student Health for American International Group (AIG).
The Retirement System Funding and Administration Act of 2017 set a schedule for retirement contribution rate increases for SCRS and PORS. Under the schedule, employer contributions rates for fiscal year 2019 increase by 1 percent. Employers should implement the scheduled rate increase July 1, 2018, and begin reporting and remitting contributions accordingly.
There are no member contribution rate increases scheduled for July 1, 2018.
Employers should continue to calculate employee and employer contributions as they have always done, taking into account the increase in the employer rates. Employers should calculate and submit their remittances using the new rates.
The State has appropriated funds for the General Fund and EIA share of the 1 percent increase in the employer contribution rate effective July 1, 2018. The Executive Budget Office will allocate these funds to state agencies and school districts.
The General Assembly has also funded a one-time credit, similar to that received last year, for employer contributions for most employers in SCRS and PORS for fiscal year 2019. However, credits will not be issued for certain employers for fiscal year 2019, including:
Additionally, credits will not be issued for the employer contributions related to covered employees who are funded with federal funds. PEBA will collaborate with the Department of Administration, Executive Budget Office and the Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office to determine the credit amount excluded for federally-funded employees employed by state agencies.
Just as last year, this amount will not flow through the normal appropriations process. Rather, the General Funds have been appropriated directly to PEBA to issue a credit invoice to applicable employers in SCRS and PORS. The employer's credit amount is available on PEBA's website at www.peba.sc.gov/assets/pensionfundingallocationcredit.pdf.
The credit invoice will be a one-time credit. Employers can use this credit invoice for the quarterly deposit for the quarter ending September 30, 2018 (due to PEBA by October 31, 2018). An employer cannot use the credit on a monthly deposit or for the quarter ending June 30, 2018, since the funds are allocated specifically for fiscal year 2019.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact Employer Services at email@example.com. You may also contact Jennifer Dolder at 803.737.4075, George Hazin at 803.737.6882 or Paul Graham at 803.737.4388.
The General Assembly included in the Appropriations Act the addition of adult well visits as a contractual service for the State Health Plan Standard Plan effective January 1, 2019. Governor McMaster must review the Act before it becomes law.
Adult well visits are not currently covered by the Standard Plan. Beginning with the 2019 plan year, adult well visits will be subject to copayments, deductibles and coinsurance. A member who has not met his deductible will have to pay the applicable copayment plus the remaining allowed amount for the visit. A member who has met his deductible will pay the applicable copayment plus his coinsurance for the well visit.
The benefit will be available to all non-Medicare primary adults age 19 and older who are covered by the Standard Plan. Adult members can take advantage of this benefit at a network provider specializing in General Practice, Family Practice, Internal Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology. The Plan will only cover one visit in covered years based on the following schedule:
Eligible female members may use their well visit at their gynecologist or their primary care physician, but not both, in a covered year. If a female visits both doctors for a well visit in the same covered year, only the first office visit for which a claim is received will be allowed.
Well visits are a key part of preventive care. They can reassure members they are as healthy as they feel, or prompt them to ask questions about their health. Evidence-based services, with an A or B recommendation by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), will be included as part of an adult well visit under the State Health Plan.1
Services not included as part of the adult well visit are those without an A or B recommendation by the USPSTF. Find these recommendations at www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org. Other services, including a complete blood count (CBC), EKG, PSA test and basic metabolic panel are only covered if ordered by your physician to treat a specific condition, and are subject to the copayment, deductible and coinsurance, as well as normal Plan provisions. Follow-up visits and services as a result of your well visit are also subject to normal Plan provisions.
Details about specific services and other member resources will be available in September 2018.
1Beginning January 1, 2019, Savings Plan members' covered well visits will only include those based on USPSTF A and B recommendations.
ASIFlex was awarded the contract for the state flexible benefits plan beginning January 1, 2019. The flexible benefits plan, known as the MoneyPlus program, allows employees to pay insurance premiums before taxes come out of their paycheck for health, dental, vision and up to $50,000 of Optional Life coverage. The program also includes medical spending accounts, dependent care spending accounts and health savings accounts. MoneyPlus helps employees save pretax money to use for their health care expenses.
The initial contract term is three years with two one-year extensions. The maximum contract term is January 1, 2019, through December 31, 2023. We restructured this contract and included new requirements with three main goals:
There are also performance guarantees associated with the contract to ensure the vendor complies with the requirements. An example of a performance guarantee is that health savings account contributions must be available in a participant's account within five business days. There are several changes to the MoneyPlus program, which will take place with this new contract.
Employees will be able to enroll in MoneyPlus through MyBenefits and employers will use EBS to finalize enrollment just like other benefits. PEBA will send daily electronic enrollment and eligibility files to ASIFlex.
Claims processing
ASIFlex will receive data from other insurance vendors for health, dental and vision services to substantiate debit card transactions and other claims submitted by the participant for reimbursement. If transaction amounts equal those shown on the explanation of benefits, participants will not need to submit documentation for services because the insurers will automatically forward the information to ASIFlex. Reimbursements will be made to participants within three business days following receipt of an accurate and complete reimbursement claim. Participants will have the option to set up a direct deposit for all claims reimbursement.
Payroll submission
To facilitate efficient and cost-effective coordination of payroll data, ASIFlex will implement one common payroll submission mode (electronic data exchange file format) to process and report payroll data during calendar year 2019. ASIFlex will work with each employer to set up the electronic file format. Payrolls received electronically will be posted to participants' accounts within one business day following availability. During the first year, payrolls provided manually will be posted to participants' accounts no later than 72 hours from receipt.
The South Carolina Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA) has released a Request for Proposal (RFP) to provide Fiduciary Liability Insurance. The RFP is located here. Please see the RFP for instructions on asking questions or requesting additional information.
Beginning March 15, 2018, State Health Plan primary members age 50 and older can receive the Shingrix vaccine for a $0 copayment. Shingrix is a new vaccine to prevent shingles. The CDC recommends adults age 50 and older receive the vaccine to prevent shingles and the complications of the disease.
Shingrix is a two dose vaccination. After the initial shot is administered, a second shot will be required within two to six months to complete the vaccination process. Members who have had the Zostavax vaccination are encouraged to also receive the Shingrix vaccine. Members should talk to their healthcare provider to determine the best time to get the Shingrix vaccine.
The State Health Plan covers adult vaccinations as recommended by the CDC at no cost to the member through PEBA Perks. A member can receive a vaccination at a network pharmacy without a prescription. Coverage includes the cost of the vaccine and administration fee if a member receives the shot in a network doctor's office. Any associated office visit charges will follow regular Plan coverage rules.
Learn more at www.PEBAPerks.com.
PEBA has released a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to solicit information from prospective offerors interested in providing a new benefits administration system for PEBA. The RFQ is located here.
The South Carolina Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA) released a request for proposal (RFP) for third party administration of the State Flexible Benefits Plan. The RFP is located here.
The annual open enrollment period for all participants of the State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP) is January 1 to March 1 of each year. During this period, State ORP participants may change their State ORP service provider or, if eligible, may irrevocably elect to participate in the South Carolina Retirement System (SCRS).
Details about the 2018 open enrollment period are available online.
The South Carolina Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA) has released a Request for Proposal (RFP) to Provide Brokerage Services for Cyber Risk Insurance Services. The RFP is located here. Please see the RFP for instructions on asking questions or requesting additional information.
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2010 F1 Race Rankings
I'm an active follower of Formula Ones and I'll be giving my opinions on various topics relating to the sport. Every Saturday and Sunday when there is a race weekend I will be giving my personal opinions of what happened. In the Race Reports I'll be listing the Top-10 Drivers, the receiver of the Golden Pineapple Award (coined by Keke Rosberg and meaning the highest position of the race with no points – this season 11th), the list of most important retirements or Drop-outs, and Back of the lot news where I'll update everyone on the progress among the three new teams of the season: Lotus, Virgin and Hispania Racing.
Here's my ranking of what were the best races of the season
- Australian Grand Prix – A fantastic race with many over-takes and surprises, mainly due to wet conditions. Jenson Button took his first win of the season which no doubt shut his critics up for at least a couple of races.
- Chinese Grand Prix (Shanghai) – Driven in extremely varied conditions. Despite starting from the front of the lot, the Red Bulls fell victim to poor tyre choices as did many other teams. The winner was Jenson Button who roughed the difficult weather with slick-tyres. With team-mate Hamilton catching up towards the end the team took a double victory. Also other drivers who were more conservative with their tyre choices got to bask in the glory of driving in the Top-10, albeit momentarily. 2 safety cars were deployed, one due to Liuzzi's crash and again when Alguersuari's broken front wing left debris on the track.
- Belgian Grand Prix – Although Lewis Hamilton lead the race from start-to-finish there were plenty of events on track and no less than three safety car sessions. The changing weather, driving blunders and "bizarre" accidents made this a really exciting race to watch.
- Malaysian Grand Prix – Despite the fiasco that the race turned into last year the Malaysian GP was free of rain and was still fairly exciting with the Ferraris and McLarens starting from the back. Red Bull took their first double-victory.
- Singapore Grand Prix – Fernando Alonso lead the race from start-to-finish unchallenged. Plenty of on-track crashes and two safety car sessions kept the drivers on their toes, the new teams provided some excitement and Robert Kubica performed several impressive overtakes.
- Japanese Grand Prix – An exciting start with Red Bull taking a double victory and Sebastian Vettel leading for much of the race and until the end. Kamui Kobayashi made several daring overtakes providing some genuine excitement for the Japanese F1 fans.
- European GP (Valencia) – An exciting start and a dramatic crash between Mark Webber and Heikki Kovalainen brought the Safety Car onto the track. This would have dramatic effects on the final standings as several penalties were handed after the race. Sebastian Vettel dominated the race from start to finish with Kamui Kobayashi providing much-needed excitement towards the end of the race.
- Brazilian Grand Prix – There was major confusion on track due to so many drivers getting lapped though only one retiree (and one driver not qualified). After over-taking first time pole-starter, Nico Hülkenberg, at the start – Sebastian Vettel lead team Red Bull to a double victory and secured the Constructors' Championship.
- Canadian Grand Prix – After an exciting start, the race then calmed down to a more normal pace for an F1 race. Superior tyre-strategy brought McLaren a double victory, with Lewis Hamilton taking top-spot on the podium.
- British Grand Prix – Mark Webber lead the race from start-to-finish. The most excitement was provided by Sebastian Vettel, who after dropping to the back of the lot during the first lap was able to rise up to seventh position by the end of the race.
- Barcelona Grand Prix – A rather uneventful race with only a hand full of over-takes and most of the action taking place on the pit-lane. However, Hamilton's rather dramatic crash towards the end and Vettel being able to rough it out with failing breaks was still fairly exciting to watch. Mark Webber lead the race from start to finish.
- Monaco Grand Prix – Although the Monaco GP wasn't short on happenings and retirements, it was unfortunately short on genuine excitement. Red Bull took another fantastic double-victory in a relatively static race and Williams suffered two rough accidents where the participants thankfully walked away unscathed. Trulli and Chandhok were responsible for the final fantastic crash where no-one was hurt but which lead to the race being finished behind the Safety Car.
- Korean Grand Prix – A race driven for much of the first half behind the safety car was only exciting for the crashes and Vettel's engine failure which permitted Fernando Alonso to take victory and the lead in the drivers' championship.
- Hungarian Grand Prix – A largely static race only saw excitement at the very beginning when a Safety Car session caused major havoc on the pit-lane. After the Safety Car session Mark Webber drove to victory unchallenged.
- Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – After Alonso fell back it was only a matter of waiting to see if Sebastian Vettel would win – and of course he did. =) Also, apart from Schumacher's rather terrifying crash with Liuzzi, the race was largely static.
- Turkish Grand Prix – The Red Bulls and McLarens took the lead early and though some overtaking took place the race was very short on happening. Mark Webber was close to leading the race from start to finish but a collision with his team-mate dropped him to 3rd position. The McLaren's took another double victory with Lewis Hamilton being the number-1 guy this time around.
- German Grand Prix – Ferrari lead the race after the first turn, finishing with a double victory where Felipe Massa was forced to allow Fernando Alonso to over-take him to keep him in the championship race. The top-10 standings were decided by pit-stops and generally there was only over-taking in the middle-to-back lot which meant the race was rather short on excitement.
- Monza Grand Prix – With most drivers only making one pit-stop there was very little excitement on track, though some commendable overtaking attempts. Fernando Alonso took the victory through a well-timed pit-stop.
- Bahrain Grand Prix – Though a good indicator for where the teams stood at the beginning of the season, the starting race of the season was short on exciting events. The most dramatic was probably Sebastian Vettel losing a near perfect victory to engine trouble. Ferrari started the season with a double victory.


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The use we give our Android devices is very high. So much so that hackers and virus writers have developed specific malicious codes, to get sensitive and important data stored on our devices. In this mini tutorial we are going to see how to clean viruses online of our smartphones and talbets with Android.
It is important that we act immediately when we come across a virus, because they can be cause damage to the information we have.
Even if we do not know for sure if we are infected, from time to time it does not hurt to check if we have been infected with any virus online.
Steps to clean viruses online on Android
The first step we have to follow is to install a Analysis application in our terminal. Some of these allow us to attack even the most dangerous, such as rootkit virus, which are made with absolute control of the device and can make it completely useless. Once we have installed our Android antivirus, the steps to follow are always the same:
- We open the application and activate the service so that the program is responsible for reviewing the files that we download, the pages through which we navigate, etc.
- To make an initial analysis of our smartphone, we access the options and look for Analysis. In this way we start a review of our device in search of online virus that may already be working.
- We let the application finish the analysis, after which we received a report with the possible viruses in our terminal. All those files in which there is no doubt that they harbor a virus, will be eliminated immediately, so that there may be an infected application that disappears or stops working after cleaning.
The best programs to clean viruses online
Although the market of Android applications is full of antivirus programs, when selecting which clean viruses online we must be very careful, since some of these are traps that actually hide Trojans, so that instead of eliminating viruses we will only open the door for third parties to take our information, and even use our device to commit criminal actions.
For this reason, before installing any application, whether or not an antivirus, it is convenient to review the comments that other users have made in the application store. If there is any doubt about the possibility of being infected, it is best not to install this application.


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James Haas, age 95 of Perry, passed away on Saturday, November 11, 2017 at the Perry Lutheran Home in Perry, IA. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Christian Church located at 1224 Lucinda St., Perry, IA 50220. Visitation will be on Friday, December 1, 2017 from 1:00 to 7:30 p.m. with family present from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Carris Family Funeral Home in Perry. A private family graveside service will take place in the Violet Hill Cemetery at Perry. Memorials will be given to the Alzheimer's Association, 1730 28th St, West Des Moines, IA 50266 or the First Christian Church and may be left at the Carris Family Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent at www.carrisfuneralhome.com.
James Richard Haas was born on January 10, 1922 in Perry, Iowa. He was the only child of Mayme and Harold Haas. He attended school in Perry and graduated with the class of 1940. While in school he played football and basketball. He was a member of the 1936 Iowa state champions in football. Since then sports were an important part of his life, especially golf and Hawkeye sports. Although sadly he never made a putt in his lifetime. After attending the University of Iowa for a year, World War II started, and he joined the Army Air Corps. He was a bombardier, in the 8th Air Force with the 398 Bomb group, 603 Squadron from the fall of 1942- June of 1945. He was stationed at Nuthamstead, England and flew 36 missions over Europe. He received the Purple Heart after being critically wounded. He also was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Victory Medal, Air Medal with six oak leaf clusters, and the European Theatre Award.
He was married to Diana Foster on March 6, 1945 while home on leave. The couple made their home in Santa Monica, CA until the war was over.
Jim and Diana returned to Perry where Jim worked 40 years as Sr Vice-President and trust officer at the Perry State Bank. Since he was a banker, he was asked to be treasurer of many local organizations. These included the Salvation Army, Perry Library Foundation, and the Perry School Board. Jim was very civic minded and gave many hours to local organizations. He was a member of the American Legion and served by speaking to area high schools about World War II and participating on panels at Veterans Day. He served as president of the Chamber of Commerce, Perry Jaycees, and Perry Golf and Country Club, and Exalted Ruler of the Elks. He was honored by many with the Kiwanis Business Man of the Year Award, the Perry Jaycees Distinguished Service Award, and recently was honored by the Perry Historical Preservation Commission who valued his volunteerism and devotion to the community.
Jim was very devoted to his church, The First Christian Church. During the War, he promised God that if he returned safely, he would serve him at the church. He did so as an elder and trustee, Chairman of the Board, and board member many times.
Family and friends were very important to Jim. After Diana was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, he faithfully took care of her, and when she needed more care, he visited her at 3:30 each day for three years and stayed through dinner until she went to bed. Their daughter Nancy and son Marty were very much a part of Jim's life. They golfed together, took vacations to Lake Okoboji, Texas and Minnesota, and Sunday rides in the car. He attended many Little League games, sporting events, dance recitals, and choir concerts. Jim especially enjoyed his Coffee group who met at Perry Perks each morning where they were treated well by Teri and solved the problems of the world.
Jim's grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the apple of his eye. Papa was very much loved by them. They called him often and visited him. Also, he was devoted to the family pets: Spot, Sam and Gerald.
Jim lived a full, active life for 95 years, dying at the Lutheran Home on Veterans Day, November 11, 2017. Some of the tributes which describe Jim include: "his years of service to the community," "he was an example of how we should lead our life," "patient and kind," "what a treasure," "beloved by many," "privilege to know him," "classy," "always friendly to me."
Survivors include daughter, Nancy (Thomas) Gilman of Las Vegas, NV, son Marty Haas of Johnston, IA, Grandchildren: Kate (Jesse Cox) Gilman of Las Vegas, NV, Timothy (Jeflyn) Gilman of Bondurant, IA, Matthew Haas of Keene, NH, Gregory (Amanda) Gilman of Las Vegas, NV, Steven Haas of Keene, NH, and Brian Haas of Pine Ridge, NJ. Great-grandchildren: Grace Gilman of Las Vegas, NV, Lennon Gilman of Bondurant, IA and Oliver Gilman of Las Vegas, NV.
Six step grandchildren: Macy, Ashlynn, Cameron, Malcolm, Abby and Lily. Two nephews, Jeffrey (Jan) Foster of Carrollton, TX, and John (Margo) Foster of Woodstock, GA. And one niece, Julie Gossett of Lake Kiowa, TX and special friend, Wilma Collins of Perry, IA.
You can reach us day or night, even on Sundays and holidays:
(515) 465-8100
Carris Family Funeral Home & Cremation Care
1721 Park St
Perry, IA 50220
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
If the death took place unattended at home, please immediately notify the local police department or sheriff's office as soon as the death occurs. Otherwise ask your health care provider to call us.


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Shipboard Trial of Primary and Secondary Ballast Water Treatment Systems
Principal Investigator:David A. Wright
Start/End Year:2000 to 2002
Institution:Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science
Co-Principal investigator:Rodger Dawson, Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science
Through a rigorous shipboard testing program under normal ballasting conditions we propose to demonstrate a comprehensive ballast water treatment system consisting of primary and secondary treatments that will be of immediate practical use to the shipping industry. One primary and two secondary ballast water treatments will be employed in a combination system that will be installed on a vessel in Baltimore Harbor. The primary treatment is a voraxial separator which relies on high centrifugal force to separate suspended particulates from the ballast water inflow. Ultraviolet irradiation and a chemical biocide will be used as secondary treatments to control biota which remain in the "filtrate." Both will be tested singly and in combination with the separator. Samples of treated and untreated ballast water will be analyzed for particulate content and for the viability of remaining organisms including phytoplankton, zooplankton and bacteria. Pigment fluorimetry will be employed to determine phytoplankton viability and a molecular live/dead probe will determine bacterial viability. Viability of zooplankton will be determined as signs of movement and heartbeat. Sizing and taxonomic identification of plankton will also be employed.
The Blue Crab: Callinectes Sapidus
An essential resource for researchers, students, and managers. Get your copy today!


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- 4 beds
- 2 baths
- $99,000 price
- 808042 mls id
- Square Feet: 1,575 sqft
- Year Built: 1973
Dont miss out on this 4 bedroom brick ranch! Amazing location for those who want to be near a school and park! New roof 2018. 10 year old furnace. Water heater is around 4 years old. Spacious kitchen and dining room. Enclosed patio with a private rear fenced yard with shed. Huge family room, painted interior, large master suite w/ walk-in closet & sink & vanity (tons of space for a spacious second bathroom). The garage is converted to a big storage unit and another room! This charming fixer-upper has loads of potential, its just waiting for the right family to show it some love and call it home. Come check it out!
- Site Link
- Style Other Style
Courtesy of: Coldwell Banker Heritage
Office Phone: +19374347600
Listing Agent: Marcus Negrelli
Updated: 4th April, 2020 1:06 PM.
136 Minnick St Franklin, OH


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the airdroid was great things before android kitkat , since its impossible to mange sd card externe with Airdroid.
So acctually i think about Asus zenfone 2 with 64Gb internal memory . that could help to manage the Data archived on its memory with Airdroid as delete the sms or photo ?
Otherwise any sloution for this with my sony z3 with external SD 64GB? acctually i have only 2gb free on its internal SD and Airdroid cant help to transfer to SD externe and no manage possible for SD external (no permission) .


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Together with the Niagara Falls in North America and the Iguazu Falls in South America, the Victoria Falls in Africa is one of the three greatest waterfalls in the world. Being the most photographed natural spectacle in both countries, tourists constantly asked: Which side of Victoria Falls is better: Zambia or Zimbabwe?
Category: Zambia
All you need to know about Victoria Falls.
The falls' stats, fun facts, how to get there, info about the visa, what is the best time to go, and more!


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Cambridge University approved online courses to be offered in 482 schools in India
LONDON: A UK-based online learning provider has been cleared by a University of Cambridge approved worldwide assessment system, which will offer 482 schools across India the chance to use a wider new range of online courses.
Pamoja Education has received its approval by Cambridge Assessment International Education, formed by Cambridge University as an examinations syndicate many years ago to raise standards in education by administering exams and inspecting schools around the world. It means that all the schools across India which already offer Cambridge Assessment curricula and programmes will be able to offer a new range of Pamoja courses online.
"UK-based online learning provider Pamoja Education has been approved by Cambridge Assessment International Education, the world's largest provider of international education programmes and qualifications for 5 to 19-year olds, to teach its world-leading IGCSE and International AS and A Level programmes online from September 2019," Pamoja Education said in a statement.
The company's analysis finds that the market for online learning in India is currently growing at 20 per cent per year and is estimated to reach a market size of USD 2 billion and 10 million users by 2021.
It notes that Indian schools able to offer the new courses online will benefit from broader subject offerings, fewer challenges caused by teacher shortages, and more flexible timetables. Students in those schools will have greater subject choice, gain practical experience of new digital technologies, and have greater flexibility of study.
"With 10 years of expertise in online learning exclusively for International Baccalaureate programmes, expanding our offering to Cambridge curricula is a natural progression for Pamoja," said John Ingram, CEO of Pamoja Education.
"Cambridge's global community and world leading curricula mean we can now help a new generation of students in India reach their potential, and we look forward to supporting Cambridge International Schools in India in broadening their subject offering through Pamoja Taught online courses," he said.
A series of courses are to be taught online for the first academic year via Pamoja's flagship "Pamoja Taught" solution, including Cambridge IGCSE Business Studies, Cambridge IGCSE Information and Communication Technology, Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics, Cambridge International AS and A Level Business and Cambridge International AS and A Level Mathematics.
According to the Oxford-based company, Pamoja Taught courses are taught online by teachers trained in online learning methodologies, and cover the same course content and prepare students for the same assessments as traditional face-to-face courses. Students use the Pamoja Taught online platform to access content at any time, interact with Pamoja teachers and join discussions with other students from around the world.
Cambridge IGCSE is believed to be among the world's most popular international qualification for 14 to 16-year olds, taken in over 150 countries and in more than 4700 schools around the world. There are over 800,000 subject entries for Cambridge IGCSE exams each year. Cambridge International AS and A Level qualifications are taken in 134 countries with more than 545,000 subject entries each year.
Christine Ozden, Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment International Education, said: "We are delighted to announce that Pamoja Education has joined our global community and we look forward to a long and productive relationship with them."
The Cambridge Assessment International Education programme is pegged as offering students from around the world a better chance of admission to some of the world's best universities.


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University of Basrah was established in accordance with the Code of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research since it was founded in 1964 for the first time, where it was affiliated with the University of Baghdad and then became independent within all its affairs in 1967 according to Code No. (8) in the year of 1967 (University of Basra Code).
BasrahUniversity seeks to enable young generations in our beloved country, Iraq, to acquire and employ knowledge as best as possible to meet the challenges of development and innovations in order to keep moving forward with the developments in a sustainable way stemmed from reality to deal with the challenges facing the civilized societies.
All rights reserved to Basrah University © 2018


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Preity Zinta's Ishkq In Paris which was recently shot in the city of love, Paris, faced a huge hurdle during its shoot, winter. In fact the crew was recently shooting there during the coldest winter recorded in the past 65 years in Europe. The shot involved the lead pair, Preity and Rhehan, shooting atop the Eiffel Tower and had Preity sans the usual fur coats and the insulation against the cold.
However, Preity being the professional that she is shot the scene in the biting cold since they had to complete the shot that day itself. The reason being, apart from the getting the permission and the weather conditions acting up, the location was one of the most expensive places to shoot at.
Speaking about the said sequence, director Prem Raj says, "We shot in Paris, which saw the coldest winter in 65 years. Apart from the fact that we withstood the weather and successfully shot there, we also managed to get permission to shoot at the Eiffel Tower and other iconic locations that very few manage to."


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Crooked teeth are more common than you think. While a little gap or kink can give your smile a little unique character, severely crooked teeth can have a more signifi cant impact.
From Madonna's distinct gap-toothed smile to Tom Cruise's pearly whites, a smile is a distinct and striking personal feature. While we all covet the perfect smile, very few people - less than 10% - have naturally occurring perfect tooth alignment.
Some level of tooth misalignment - crooked, overlapping or twisted teeth - is normal and at the lower end of the spectrum, cause no real issues at all. But when teeth misalignment is severe, three diff erent types of problems can result. For one, there may be emotional stress due to teasing during childhood that leads to low self-esteem and other psycho-social problems. Misalignment of the teeth can also cause issues with oral function including diffi culties in jaw movement that result in poor jaw muscle coordination or pain, problems with chewing, swallowing or speech. Crooked or overcrowded teeth can also lead to a greater susceptibility to trauma, gum disease and tooth decay.
Tooth misalignment happens for several reasons:
Concerning the last factor, childhood falls should be carefully monitored as jaw fractures or chipped teeth may result in problems in later years. Damage to the jaw and teeth may manifest as asymmetrical growth of the jaw with the aff ected side growing less well compared to the unaff ected side. In such circumstances, an orthodontist can start treatment to normalise growth as much as possible when the condition is noted.
Restoring a beautiful smile
The best solution for misaligned teeth is orthodontic treatment which is typically done with fi xed braces. Braces work by applying pressure to the teeth and jaws to move them into a more desired position. Braces can be made out of stainless steel, ceramic, plastic or a combination of materials.
These days, minor to moderate problems can be treated with clear plastic aligners that move teeth into beautiful alignment. Corrective treatment can start as early as six years old, but as most orthodontic procedures require good patient cooperation and acceptance, treatment is usually started at about nine years old.
Caring for braces and teeth
Dental braces with their wires and brackets trap food and plaque that can stain teeth and increase the risk of cavities. Regular brushing and careful fl ossing is important to remove any residue. To prevent braces from moving out of alignment or breaking, avoid chewing ice or hard foods such as whole apples or corn on the cob and sticky candy such as gum or caramel.
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text: Posted on November 16, 2013March 9, 2015 by Dan MooreMaintenance day Not sure how today ended up being the day but we ended up with all the trucks wedged around the shop getting some TLC. It was all needed so this works out. I am just glad to have a good place to work and a beautiful day to do it. Dan MooreFarmer at Ninja Cow Farm LLCDan is a dad, a husband, a business owner, a pilot, a sailor, a scuba diver, a machinist, a gunsmith, a welder, a woodworker, a day laborer, a teacher, a mentor and a writer. The short form of all the previous is he's a farmer.


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Growing up in a politically competitive community turns out to have important educational advantages. Gimpel, Lay, and Schuknecht find that young people who live in communities with competitive elections are more knowledgeable about politics, more confident in their own capacity to make a difference, more trusting in government to be responsive, more tolerant, and more likely to discuss politics than their peers, holding many other factors constant.
Competition probably enhances civic learning because politicians and parties must reach out to citizens when elections are close. They reach out with messages that make people feel important and that convey interesting information. Also, regardless of how politicians behave, one can learn from growing up among roughly equal groups of Democrats and Republicans. In politically diverse communities, young people are exposed to divergent political views and understand that disagreement is inevitable. (The same advantage also arises from religious diversity.)
Political competitiveness can compensate for economic disadvantage. In fact, Gimpel and colleagues found that in poor communities with a mix of Democratic and Republican voters, young people grow up more knowledgeable than their peers who live in wealthy, single-party suburbs. Political competition boosts the level of discussion "by an amazing 17 percentage points among those with no plans to attend college," because exposure to robust politics compensates for their relatively poor formal educations.
However, most Americans do not grow up in competitive districts. Only four incumbent Representatives were defeated in 2002, and only five in 2004. The same pattern occurs in many states. For example, in 2004, none of California's 153 legislative seats changed parties. The 2006 elections are expected to be more competitive than usual. Yet even a loss of 15 Republican seats in 2006 would represent only 3.4 percent of the House of Representatives.
One reason for the lack of competition is that districts have been drawn with increasing sophistication to favor one party over the other. But communities have also become more politically homogeneous. No one redraws county lines to benefit politicians, yet the segregation of Democrats and Republicans at the county level increased by 47 percent during the last quarter of the 20th century. This is a bad sign for the next generation of citizens.


text: attention uh ten shuhn n the process whereby a person concentrates on some features of the environment to the (relative) exclusion of others n the work of providing treatment for or attending to someone or something the old car needs constant attention n a general interest that leads people to want to know more She was the center of attention n a courteous act indicating affection she tried to win his heart with her many attentions n the faculty or power of mental concentration keeping track of all the details requires your complete attention n a motionless erect stance with arms at the sides and feet together; assumed by military personnel during drill or review the troops stood at attention Usage(s) A new study suggests that idly doodling during meetings or boring lectures helps people pay attention and retain more information. Winifred Gallagher's Rapt explains how what you pay attention to dictates the quality of your life. Doctors say huge numbers of kids and adults have attention deficit disorder. Synonym(s) attending care aid tending Antonym(s) inattention


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The name change is something that's going to be going on throughout the FWBO entities, but the hope is that it's going to all go down on Wesak Day, though obviously each entity could not change. There is no central authority, per se. The College of Precepts decides who and when people get into the order. Of course since Sangharakshita founded the order, people tend to listen to him. He has said he's just another order member, perhaps modestly. He's also relinquished his formal roles. The history of the name change is a convoluted one, but basically since the Western Buddhist Order is not just in the west, it's also in the east, they wanted a more neutral name. Similar problems happened in India, where a name would mean something for one group, but not another. They began to discuss this around 1995. It's hard to create a consensus, though many thought the name should change. A name was agreed on, and then it turned out that there were 2 other sanghas with the same name. So recently some India order member have asked for the change. And now it's trying to be implemented. And the FWBO/TBMSG News has reported on it.
Please note I'm outside the heart of things, and I'm not an order member, so you it's the view of a a mitra being expressed here.
Why we don't help and what we can do about it - My family and I have just returned from a very rich and varied week in New York, where we did all the usual tourist things, including a visit to the 9/11...
1 year ago


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A Friend of Medjugorje again looks at how we need to look at the truth of a situation, instead of looking at what the world, media or even other Christians may say...
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Last Updated April 6, 2020 | Mej v 3.8.29 Caritas of Birmingham. 100 Our Lady Queen Peace Dr, Sterrett, AL 35147 USA


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"Nestled on the southern portion of the upland, 315 will allow guests to experience casual dining in an extraordinary setting. The open and airy satellite dining area nestled along the riverbank will offer breathtaking views of the Hudson River, bar service and an abridged menu from Costera."
– From the winning Manhattan River Group bid to operate the Dyckman Marina concession, describing the cafe area that later became the ticketed concert venue instead.
As has been described elsewhere on this site, in 2007 the Parks Department sent out two Requests For Proposals to find a new concessionaire willing to invest in and operate a Marina and a Cafe. The documents were issued separately as it was envisioned that the two entities might be operated independently, although combining the bids was encouraged. Because of the troubled history of the site, the RFP was only for those two uses, the ones identified by Parks and the community as being suitable.
The RFP for the restaurant included some very clear language about what was expected. To break down some components of the vision (along with what actually happened):
- Use as a cafe was clearly defined:
Parks is seeking proposers with a solid background in the food service business to operate a high caliber café. The café should make a significant improvement to the ambience of the park and surrounding area while providing a convenient service to the public.
As operated: No cafe was ever built.
- The cafe menu was also noted as follows:
The food and service provided must be of high quality yet affordable. Proposers should include some low-cost items on their menus.
As operated: No cafe was ever built. Restaurant menu has a $16 hamburger and $11 garden salad.
- The proposers could also propose an enclosed restaurant in addition to the cafe:
If proposers choose to submit a proposal which includes the construction of a new year-round restaurant, they should also include a detailed operational plan for the restaurant. This plan should clearly outline the dimensions and design of the proposed restaurant, the proposed menu, price list and hours of operation. As with the café, the design, menu, price list and hours of operation are all subject to Parks' approval.
As operated: Enclosed year-round restaurant was built as described.
Alcohol on the premises was defined very clearly:
Alcoholic beverages may only be served during sit-down service and must be consumed within the licensed premises.
As operated: Three standing bars were built, two of them outdoors. Most drinking takes place standing up.
- Access was described explicitly:
The concessionaire must ensure free and open public access to the seating areas.
As operated: Part of the seating area is a VIP section that requires bottle service (typically $1,500 for bottles of champagne or liquor). The seating in the concert area requires concert tickets.
- Music was given special attention, due to the past problems with noise at the site:
Proposers should note that the café will not be permitted to have any outdoor, amplified music without prior written approval from Parks. All amplified music must be at sound level reasonably acceptable to the Commissioner…. Concerts will be strictly prohibited at the site.
If the proposer plans to build an enclosed, year-round restaurant, then amplified music may be played within the structure. All amplified music at the café or restaurant (if proposed) must cease at 10:00 p.m. and must be at a sound level reasonably acceptable to the Commissioner. Music and all other noise emanating from the café and restaurant (if proposed) shall comply with the rules for noise control in Title 24, Chapter 2 of the Administrative Code of the City of New York.
As operated: Amplified music is played outdoors every night, using speakers rated at up to 130 dB. Amplified music is played until 1 am, which does not comply with the noise code.
- Hours were clearly defined:
The café and restaurant (if proposed) will not be permitted to operate past 11:00 p.m. on Sunday through Wednesday and 12:30 a.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
As operated: Hours were changed to 1 am every night, including Sunday.
- The RFP did not include any mention of parking.
As operated: The adjacent parking area was turned into a private valet lot that overflows far down Dyckman Street, illegally and without any agreement from DOT.
The separate Marina RFP had its own vision and list of requirements, mostly related to professional marina operations. But there were a few points worth noting:
Parks is seeking proposers with a solid background in the marina services industry to operate a high quality marina. Parks would like to see this site developed into a first class destination that draws visitors from all over the area while providing a convenient service to the public.
Additionally, Parks will look favorably upon proposals that include a storage area for kayaks and canoes. This storage could be offered for a fee. Parks will also look favorably upon proposals that include theinstallation of a floating launch.
As operated: The marina docks did not open until 2014, two years after the restaurant opened. They are little used, but well known through verses of explicit songs. No canoe or kayak storage or floating launch was built.
How did such a stunning reversal of what was promised occur? Was the accepted bid from Manhattan River Group for what was then called "Dyckman Marina and Cafe" (and later "Dyckman Landing") inconsistent with the original requirements? No; in fact it complied very much with the RFP (see below). But nowhere in the exhaustive 179-page bid response document was there any mention of a 3,000 person events venue, of a massive concert facility with stage and huge sound system hosting dozens of club concerts each summer, of nightclub bouncers and bottle service areas. Nothing about opening at 4 pm and closing at 1 am. What happened?
Children's Menu from RFP compared to the Bottle Service Menu as-built.
Yes, there were delays, changes in the design team, costly infrastructure-related design changes, value engineering and all of the other difficulties involved with constructing a multi-million dollar facility in New York. No finished building ever matches its RFP documents exactly. The Manhattan River Group design did evolve, but as late as early 2012 was still being presented like this:
Only Parks can explain how and why they inequitably and inappropriately (if not illegally) allowed the vision to become so distorted from the original, approved documents. One clue may lie in one of the bids that was not accepted. There was a bid submitted that included the following components:
- a huge 400-seat restaurant, with a strong emphasis on employment
- a desire to control street parking spaces along Dyckman Street all the way to Staff Street
- a willingness to operate the cafe without the marina (which was viewed as requiring subsidy from the cafe operations)
This bid was supported by a local restaurant owner/investor/spokesman who later bought into the Manhattan River Group and now owns a controlling stake. The name of the proposed restaurant in the rejected bid? "La Marina"
Suffice to say that this long, sorry tale of broken promises and twisted visions is a disgrace to the Parks Department, the area residents, the City of New York and respect for due process. A perfectly acceptable RFP was issued, a wonderful bid was received and accepted, a contract in accordance with both was executed. And yet a few years later, instead of a smart, green marina and cafe with a sailing school, kayak storage, picnic tables, open grounds and lunch service as promised, it was a terrific high-end restaurant and very problematic nightclub/concert venue that opened, more resembling the bid that was not accepted rather than the one that was. Complete with overflowing valet parking and traffic and numerous noise and capacity violations, with an emphasis on alcohol and smoking, the waterfront reclaimed with such grandeur from industrial boat storage in the name of public access was now being used for filming explicit videos instead of being open-air dining with a children's menu. Unacceptable.
Restore Dyckman Marina and make good on the original promise for this facility. The Parks Department owes Inwood nothing less.
To take a closer look at what might have been, here are some excerpts from the Manhattan River Group winning bid:
Of course, the marina and restaurant will also draw bicyclists, boaters and diners from across New York City with the lure of an aesthetically appealing waterfront, a well-run marina, great food and a pro-active approach to improving the river ecology.
MRG plans to excavate a portion of the upland to establish a thriving salt water marsh, the spawning ground for many of the Hudson's native species.
Dyckman will be divided into four distinct zones, each of which is fully accessible to the public. Zone 1 is an integrated parking and staging area; Zone 2 includes a Spanish-themed restaurant and snack/picnic window open to the public; Zone 3 includes marina operations, including launching services, a 22-slip dock, limited short-haul space, a ship store, a new-boat showroom, facilities for mooring customers, offices and sailing school; and Zone 4, to the south of the quonset hut contains a casual waterfront lounge running between the Hudson's shore on the west and the Manhattan Greenway on the East.
The marina operations were to be overseen by a marine sales and marketing executive and also an instructor from the New York Sailing Center on City Island.
The bid included a heavy emphasis on environmental factors and "green strategies", going so far as to promise "a facility whose carbon footprint will not crush future generations of users and that will, more importantly, set an example for other waterfront developments." (Reality ended up being rather different.)
Access was very open, consistent with architectural renderings that were later developed:
Bicycle, pedestrian traffic, kayakers, and other park users will have access directly from the greenway, encouraging the kind of flow that sustains successful gathering places and sending a message to the community and visitors that NYC respects and nourishes the Hudson River.
The project approach was based on four "significant concepts". Excerpts from the document include:
1) Increasing community access to the waterfront – principally through the eateries — restaurant, cafe/lounge and snack window, along with cleverly outsourcing the land-based marina services and improving the surrounding walkways and pier:
MRG will transform the Dyckman riverfront into a comfortable gathering place for all of its visitors. The site plan will offer two distinct dining facilities: A full service restaurant to the north (in the current location of the existing restaurant facility) ("Costera"), and a lounge at the south end of the property ("315")
Costera will offer elegant, yet casual dining in an area modified to comfortably hold 300 guests under our towering semi-permanent canopy and amongst the native vegetation and flowering plants in the sand-dusted garden area just south of the DEP structure. Costera will offer a menu of dishes inspired from the culinary traditions of Spain and South America. For 315, MRG will convert he southern portion of the upland (the narrow strip south of the Quonset hut) to a full-service dining area; complete with stand-alone food prperation facilities, a wine and beer bar and bocce bal courtts. MRG will create a unique dining experience literally inches from the Hudson River and increase available seating by almost 20%. Set off from the rest of the facility, 315 will be available for private events. This area will provide stunning waterfront views of the Palisades and George Washington Bridge.
In addition to the sit-down service available at Costera and 315, MRG will provide seating and picnic tables in the portion of Inwood Park immediately adjacent to Dyckman, outside of the formal restaurant area. Visitors can bring their own lunches or take advantage of the walk-up snack window ("Bocados") at the eastern end of the public fishing pier, which will offer sandwiches, ice cream, and other easy-to-serve finger food. While remaining simple, the Bocados menu and ingredients will reflect the high quality that has continued to fill tables at Solera and other Villano family restaurants over many years.
This notable expansion of seating along the waterfront recognizes the value premium placed on open space at the expense of low-margin, environmentally stressful industrial uses. Not only will the public have greater access to the river under the MRG plan, but the additional seating will generate additional revenue through rental for private and corporate events, as well as increased food and beverage sales when not under private contract.
To make up for the loss of upland waterfront maintenance and repair facilities, MRG has made arrangements with Monte's Marine Service at the Englewood Boat Basin, which lies directly across the river from the Dyckman property, to handle all of MRG's watercraft servicing needs. By outsourcing repairs and maintenance, in exchange for a royalty payment, to an existing facility, MRG is able to provide human access to a stretch of reclaimed waterfront; in its current use the upland is neither safe nor accessible.
Access to the facility is integral to the success of the Manhattan River Club. Thus, MRG will provide limited internal parking, a valet service during peak times, an unloading area for buses and bicycle racks within the grounds. We will also evaluate the feasibility of creating a landing for the New York Water Taxi, which has recently begun to ferry passengers from more northern reaches of the Hudson River.
While outside the immediate scope of this proposal, MRG has initiated discussions with the New York Restoration Project, which has an excellent track record in Northern Manhattan, and will work with other community and political leaders to (a) connect the portion of the greenway running along the eastern border of Dyckman with those sections that have already been budgeted for restoration; and (b) develop and spearhead funding of a long term maintenance plan for the public fishing pier running along Dyckman's northern border. Both of these areas have endured many years of neglect, yet are essential elements connecting the upper Manhattan waterfront.
2) Creating a high-quality dining establishment at a riverfront oasis – again through the multiple eateries.
Costera and 315 will serve as (g) a stopping off points for cyclists taking advantage of the Manhattan Greenway, (ii) an easy getaway for city swellers, (iii) the local restaurant and gathering place for Inwood residents, and (iv) the only high quality restaurant in the local area offering dock-and-dine service.
3) Offering unsurpassed marina services — of every type and description.
Boating in and around Manhattan, as gorgeous and inviting as it would seem to be, is scarce. With an average 95% occupancy rate at area marinas, and a meager 12% of facilities available to transients, there are not nearly enough facilities to support the NYC boathing community…. The marina will offer standard services in its basic package…. Additional services currently offered by no other New York City marina will also be available. These include pick-up and drop-off with our licensed, coast guard approved launch, boat wash and interior cleaning, catering/restocking, garbage pick-up, battery charging, and onboard mechanical/repair services through our service partner. MRG will be the only marina in Manhattan to offer on-site dry storage in the winter.
4) Providing a safe and clean environment – mostly through prior restaurant experience and high standards.
The rebuilt Dyckman facilities will be reshaped into an accessible and safe location for boating and dining…. These repairs will create the foundation for a clean, safe and well-maintained propoerty in which the boatyard activities are substantially curtailed in favor of landscaped pathways and dining areas well suited to its unique location.
The eateries were further described in the response document in great detail. Excerpts include:
Costera will be MRG's casual, waterfront cafe experience… Costera's aim is to provide quality food and service, in a comfortable atmosphere, coupled with a distinct and unique dining experience.
Program elements to include: Outdoor dining tables and chairs to accomodate 275 guests, Bar accommodating approximately 15 guests
Nestled on the southern portion of the upland, 315 will allow guests to experience casual dining in an extraordinary setting. The open and airy satellite dining area nestled along the riverbank will offer breathtaking views of the Hudson River, bar service and an abridged menu from Costera.
Program elements to include: Outdoor dining tables and chairs to accommodate 50 guests, Outdoor quasi-covered kitchen/bar area.
Bocados is the Spanish word for 'snacks". Located and services in the Costera unit, Bocados will provide take-out service for those patrons who would rather "get and go"… The menu will consist of "simple snack food"…. Picnic baskets will also be available so people can enjoy a romantic getaway, a stopover in one of upper Manhattan's array of well-maintained parks and playgrounds, or a freshly prepared meal while cruising around Manhattan's waterways.
Program elements to include: Picnic tables around the North Beach (north of the fishing pier)
Private events were envisioned from the beginning, but not as concerts:
Individuals, corporations, and organizations will have the option of renting the Costera pier area, the Costera garden area, or 315…. In addition to hosting weddings, communions, bar/bat mitzvahs, bridal showers, corporate functions, tour groups, birthdays, anniversaries, rehearsal dinners and other private events, MRG proposes to use the property for community events such as Memorial/Labor Day picnics, clambakes, 4th of July fireworks displays, and a regular farmer's market. Furthermore, MRG would propose to host an annual festival at the start of the season, in which all profits would be donated to community charities. The festival would offer rides, various concessions, live music, arts and other activities…
The 22-slip marina programming was described in the response to include:
- Storage and launch facilities for kayakers, canoers and rowboaters;
- A sailing school complete with training boats and classroom
- Mooring and docking facilities for power-boaters
- Boat service facilities; and
- Concierege services
The sailing school was to be operated by the New York Sailing Center & Yacht Club from City Island, offering "a variety of programs including one-day workshops to brush up on skills, private instruction at any level, personal vessel instruction, navigation courses, bareboating and facing. Furthermore, experience sailors can even rent our larger vessels for day trips and overnights."
The kayak, canoe and rowboat storage would have gone into the existing quonset hut. Furthermore. "MRG will apply to become a designated Hudson River Valley Greenway Water Trail site".
Duck tours and a boat dealership are also mentioned in the document.
Great attention was paid to public access. Under "Intended Uses for the Facility", it was stated that:
Manhattan River Group recognizes the importance of public access to the waterfront. Our objective is to increase public use by providing a venue and facilities. By expanding the area dedicated to hospitality uses, withing and outside the concession, we accomplish this goal. In addition to the various boating and restaurant facilities explained in detail above, MRG may also offer:
- Community events
- Free kayaking through a not-for-profit partner
- Power boat rentals
- Bicycle rental
- Neighborhood tours; and
- River ecology tours
Finally, the hours more than met the intent of the RFP. The restaurants would open at 11 am on weekdays for lunch and 9 am on weekends for brunch, and close by 11 pm every night.
All of the above sounds appealing and perfectly consistent with the goals of the RFP. Parks would have been wrong not to have selected the bid. It outlines, in great detail, the exact kind of facility that the area craved and that would revitalize the site. So why was almost none of it built as described?
Instead, this is what opened in 2012, five years after the RFP was first issued:
This is what was built and opened in 2012. Contrast with the earlier renderings and site plan
A Broken Promise indeed. Parks must restore Dyckman Marina, and restore the uses as originally promised.


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Archive for the ' Custom Work ' Category
See us on CBS NEWS Sunday Morning!
We were on CBS News this morning! (Sunday December 16, 2018) Click this link below to see the video: CBS NEWS Sunday Morning on Marimbas Click on this link for the story on CBS'S website: CBS WEBSITE MARIMBA STORY
Deagan Artists' Special #262 Xylophone Frame Fabrications
We were given the bars and resonators of two Deagan Artists' Special #262 xylophones, and no other parts. The instruments were built roughly around 1908-1910. We custom fabricated two new frames for these instruments from scratch. The new frames are in the same design as what the original frames were, but our added innovation is […]
The New York Ballet Orchestra
3.5 Octave Aluminum/Wood Hybrid Frame Xylophone with Brass Resonators delivered to The New York Ballet Orchestra. "Hi Matt, I just this week unpacked and set up the new xylo ( we are back in session now ) The instrument is great ! All the guys love it and enjoy playing on it. Thank you so […]
Ford Motor Company Order
Fourteen custom made 5 note steel bell sets made for The Ford Motor Company for use in their automotive trade shows throughout the world. Each color note will correspond to a specific metal alloy used in a new hybrid car they are producing:
We're on Broadway!
Custom "Two Note" marimba made for the production of South Pacific on Broadway for use in their very small pit!
Custom Resonators
Custom silver powdercoated aluminum resonator 5.0 octave marimba built for David Bergman, West Point, NY.


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World Ovarian Cancer Day 8th May 2018 #AGCF #OCRF #whteshirtcampaign
Please read our bulletin creating awareness about Ovarian Cancer.
Click on link to find out more information World Ovarian Cancer Day 8th May 2018
Key points
- Early stages of ovarian can cancer often have no obvious symptoms or symptoms frequently attributed to other causes . Symptoms can include bloating, eating- feeling full, pelvic pain , urinary symptoms-frequency/urgency
- Most women are diagnosed in the advanced stages of the disease.
- There is no early detection test for Ovarian cancer.
- An early detection test would help improve the five year survival rates as patients can be treated earlier.
- In Australia the five year survival rate for Ovarian cancer is 43% whereas the five year survival rate for Breast Cancer is 90%.
- An increase in research funding is required to help researchers find an early detection test.


text: Price will determine Demand and Supply Let's take for example Apple's iphone Let's assume there is only one market – Singapore The product life cycle is about 2 years Where after 6 mnths the price will be reduced 25% After 1 year the price will be reduced 50% After 1.5 years the price will be reduced 75% which is the lowest possible Upon introduction the iphone is priced $599 Where the demand is 10,000 pieces monthly If Demand=Supply the constant is Price=$599 If you increase Supply beyond that The Price will drop Fact is in real life other than that is the "Time" constant Where there is "multiple markets" to complicate things Considerations like the "Lowest Costs" to produce the iphone Where "Labour", "Materials" and "Land" Will be outsourced to countries with the "Lowest Costs" Based on these assumptions the ROI is 40% Which is the maximum possible for the manufacturer Apple With Total control of its Supply chain and Logistics With advanced monitoring of the Demand of iphone via its stores and website It is possible to "Maximise Returns" A new concept for the "New Economy" In fact with market data on multiple markets It is possible to tweak "Supply" To meet "Demand" To get the "Maximum Price" Thereby maximising the use of scarced resources Without overproducing to cause a drop in "Price" Giving maximum returns for "Wages" Whereby ending "Destructive Competition". The Old Economy method of overproducing until "Supply" is more than "Demand" Will only cause a drop in "Price" It will not help you get "Maximised Returns". Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:Like Loading... Related Author: Gilbert Tan TS IT expert with more than 20 years experience in Multiple OS, Security, Data & Internet , Interests include AI and Big Data, Internet and multimedia. An experienced Real Estate agent, Insurance agent, and a Futures trader. I am capable of finding any answers in the world you want as long as there are reports available online for me to do my own research to bring you closest to all the unsolved mysteries in this world, because I can find all the paths to the Truth, and what the Future holds. All I need is to observe, test and probe to research on anything I want, what you need to do will take months to achieve, all I need is a few hours. View all posts by Gilbert Tan TS


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My Nation expects me to be physically harder and mentally stronger than my enemies. If knocked, down I will get back up, every time. -- Navy SEAL Creed
As a Navy SEAL, I learned that physical and mental strength were essential for survival. During training, our instructors knocked us down every day, all day. To survive, we learned not only how to get back up, but how to get back up and fight harder. The only way we could do this was to be in top physical condition. If our bodies broke down, our minds and our determination to succeed were not far behind. Many good Navy men did not make it through SEAL training because they weren't quite physically hard or mentally strong enough.
In a fast-paced entrepreneurial organization, leaders need to be healthy, confident, and driven in order to move the company forward. Better fitness leads to better leadership. Similarly, a healthy workforce will be more likely to help fulfill the organization's mission, vision, and goals.
Here are seven reasons a focus on fitness leads to success:
If you want a top performing team, you need to lead by example. Get out from behind your desk and start moving.