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It is going to be a record-smashing year for Independent Baseball in the number of the non-affiliated game's players heading into major league spring training camps, with the total continuing to grow. We will have it all summed up, including a full roster, when subscribers to the Independent Baseball Insider receive their final pre-training column on Thursday. Subscribe for a month or the season at www.WirzandAssociates.com.
The American Association has had a bonanza of good news in this arena already this week with three additions to its already sizeable pool of talent headed to the 30 major league camps.
For anyone fortunate to check out the Caribbean Series on television this week, see how much participation there is by current or former Independent players. Puerto Rico has 11 such players on its roster, and the most amazing part may be that eight of them were in Indy leagues last season. Every team has at least four players with an Independent Baseball background.
One of Puerto Rico's 11 is Sergio Espinosa, who made 14 appearances with the Can-Am League's Newark (NJ) Bears (1-0, 4.10) last season. Espinosa was credited with the victory Monday when Puerto Rico, which had lost its first three games, upended the unbeaten Dominican Republic (3-1), a team managed by new Lincoln, NE (American Association) field boss Ken Oberkfell.
American Association all-star outfielder Chris Roberson (Winnipeg) has probably been as busy a participant as anyone as the leadoff man for Mexico (2-2).
Two former Indy pitchers have turned in very strong starts. Angel Castro (Lincoln, 2010) hurled the Dominican to a victory over Venezuela (2-2) with seven innings in which he allowed two earned runs while striking out seven (no walks). Ken Ray, among the most venerable of those in the series at 39, pitched Venezuela to a win over Puerto Rico when he allowed only one run in six innings while fanning nine and not walking anyone. Ray last worked in an Independent league when he was with the Long Island (NY) Ducks (Atlantic League) in 2009.
It is guaranteed at least eight players with an Independent background will be eligible for Thursday's new championship game.
SUBSCRIBE TO THE INDEPENDENT BASEBALL INSIDER FOR 2013. 40 issues for only $48 through December, 2013; Scouts: $32
Get the independent minor league baseball trivia question of the day by clicking this link: Independent Minor League Baseball Trivia Questions
Get the independent minor league baseball trivia question of the day by clicking this link: Independent Minor League Baseball Trivia Questions


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This events page showcases all the events that are open to your attending. Stay tuned for more.
List of events
26-28 July | The Wedding Village @ Suntec City
27-28 July |My Dream Wedding Open House
27 July | Hotel Fort Canning Open House
28 July | Wedding Tea Party @ Alkaff Mansion
Date: 26 – 28 July 2013
Venue: Suntec City International Convention Centre Hall 403
Admission: Complimentary
Website: http://theweddingvillage.com.sg/
One of the largest wedding exhibitions of the year, this place is your one-stop for all wedding-planning needs. Tons of exhibitors will be present at this event, ranging from bridal shops, wedding photography services, wedding favours, entertainment, florists, decorations and much more. Take a walk on their themed walkways featuring Parisian and Garden Wedding theme.
Bridal boutiques will be having a fashion show on the 27th of July and there would be talks given by Marriage Central on the 28th of July. There will also be lucky draws held on the event days!
Date: 27-28 Jul, 3-4 Aug 2013
Time: Register with preferred timeslot
Venue: 33 Tuas Street #01-01, S078973
Admission: Complimentary by appointment
Exclusive wedding packages up for grabs! For more information/registration, click here.
Date: 27 July 2013
Time: 12 – 5 pm
Venue: Hotel Fort Canning, Legends Ballroom
Admission: $28 nett per couple
*Special admission price for OCBC credit card holders: $20 nett
Highlights of Fort Canning's wedding event include afternoon tea, exclusive workshop perks and special promotions! Register via Singaporebrides.
Date: 28 Jul 2013, Sun
Time: 1pm
Venue: Alkaff Mansion, 10 Telok Banglah Green
Admission: $68 nett per couple
Alkaff's first wedding show showcases Singapore's top wedding specialists and finest wedding professionals like Heaven's Gift Wedding Concierge, Plush Photography, Bryan Jean Photography, Feldberyl Photography, Live Studios, Substance Films, Vocalise, The Make Up Room and more! Indulge yourself in their distinctive high tea spread and be captivated by a runway of International gown labels brought in specially by The Atelier Bridal. Call 6510 3068 or email email@example.com to register.

subset: commoncrawl


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When you stay at Balangan Cottage in Jimbaran, you'll be next to a golf course and convenient to Balangan Beach and New Kuta Golf. This hotel is within the vicinity of Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park and Uluwatu Temple.
Make yourself at home in one of the 8 air-conditioned rooms featuring LCD televisions. Rooms have private balconies or patios. Complimentary wireless Internet access is available to keep you connected. Bathrooms have showers and complimentary toiletries.
Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as bicycles to rent or take in the view from a terrace and a garden. This hotel also features complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services, and babysitting/childcare (surcharge). Getting to the surf and sand is a breeze with the complimentary beach shuttle.
Enjoy a meal at a restaurant or in a coffee shop/café. Or stay in and take advantage of the hotel's room service (during limited hours). While enjoying a refreshing dip in the hotel pool, you can order your favorite drink at the poolside bar.
Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, multilingual staff, and luggage storage. A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge (available on request), and free self parking is available onsite.


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You finished your deck and landscaped your entire backyard and now you're ready to add some lighting so everyone can see your masterpiece at night as well. Let's begin with a little explanation of different lighting products available and then we can add in some pros and cons to give you an even better idea and make an informed decision. Installing landscape lighting is a fairly simple DIY project that can easily transform your home and yard with security and/or aesthetically pleasing lights at night.
There are several categories in outdoor lighting and we will try and touch base on all. By now you have seen countless solar powered or hardwired lights throughout your development. Some are even hard-wired, Low Voltage or LED, how do you choose which is your best solution?
Let's first explain that energy-efficient lights save in electricity costs and reduce environmental stress and damage. Low-voltage LED lighting and solar lighting are both excellent alternatives to standard lighting setups. Both options are likely to reduce the cost of lighting your home. However, they have different benefits, and one may be a better option for your unique lighting needs.
Solar Lighting Defined
By nature, solar lighting is highly efficient. Aside from the cost of installing solar lighting fixtures and infrequent repairs and maintenance, solar lighting is entirely dependent upon the sun and requires no additional electrical fee. Because of this, solar lighting is reliable even during normal power outages. Similarly, solar lighting is extraordinarily energy efficient. Solar energy is a renewable resource and is not damaging to the environment.
On the other hand, low-voltage LED lighting provides a greater degree of control than solar lighting. Low-voltage LED lights can be brightened and dimmed to suit your mood and at your discretion. While low-voltage LED lighting is not as inexpensive as solar lighting, it generally costs quite a bit less than standard lighting setups. Low-voltage LED lights are also energy efficient, though not as much as solar lighting. Finally, low-voltage LED lighting is safe for use with children and pets, as the risk of electric shock is very low.
Solar landscape lighting is gaining popularity as more people become environmentally aware; however, low-voltage electric lights are a proven, time-tested lighting option. Before you make your final decision on which lighting option is best for you, take the time to compare both options. Adding landscape lighting to your home can make a major difference in your curb appeal.
Unlike electric lighting, solar landscape lights use LED lights. LED lighting is one of the longest lasting lighting options, sometimes lasting 10 years or more. Solar-powered lighting is great for those that don't have much experience working with wiring because they don't have any wires. They are exceptionally energy efficient because they run off the energy produced by the sun and they are virtually a no-cost lighting option.
What are the pros and cons of solar landscape lighting?
Instead of dying or blowing out, like conventional bulbs, LED lights simply lose brightness over time. Solar-powered lights don't contain mercury. This may not be a big consideration now, however, as focus on the environment increases those with solar landscape lighting won't have any environmental issues to consider. Magnifying the energy efficiency and sustainability of solar lights is the fact that they run off the power of the sun and don't have a carbon footprint.
On the downside, solar landscape lights don't usually offer the brightness of low voltage electric lights. Brightness is a large consideration if the lights are placed in areas that don't receive much direct sunlight. Maintenance can also become an issue. The lights can become covered in dirt and then aren't able to absorb sunlight and recharge. If you are looking for bright white lights, solar lights many not be the best choice because they tend to look blue. The lights don't offer you much control as they come on at night and go off during the day.
LED Deck Lighting
LED lights are another excellent choice for lighting your deck. Recessed LED solar deck lights can be added in the floor of the deck to illuminate where you step without blinding you as you walk over them. These up-lighters are one of the most widely used deck fixtures and their kits come with twenty to a set, making them an economical choice. LEDs last much longer, use significantly less energy, will not burn a bare foot, and come in solar or low wattage options. They are also perfect for recessed lighting on stairs. Deck lighting kits for floor and step options are available for do-it-yourselfers, as well as other designer kit choices.
Now that we have explained that a few general words of caution: Always use UL listed, outdoor-rated lights outside. Always turn off the power before doing a lighting project. Homeowners can undertake low-voltage, i.e., 12v, projects themselves, but outdoor lighting solutions that are hardwired to the home's 120v system must follow housing code, and must be installed by professionals. Professionals should also be engaged if low-voltage wires need to cross driveways or pathways.
Before you being, if you are installing outdoor lights or attempting to light a large indoor space, low-voltage LED lights may be a better choice than solar lights. Low-voltage LED lights cast high-quality, bright light that is capable of providing adequate light to an outdoor deck or patio as well as a large space within a house. Solar lights, on the other hand, have a fainter light and tend to cast a light that is slightly blue in color.
Although solar lights are cheaper and less environmentally costly than low-voltage LED lights, you may find that your lighting needs are better met by LED lights. Many homeowners find that the extra time spent performing installation and the more frequent maintenance are worthwhile sacrifices for the brighter, high-quality lights. Both varieties are good alternatives to standard lighting, and neither requires particular expertise to install. If you have any questions about solar or low-voltage LED lighting or the installation and maintenance required for either, consult with an electrician or home improvement specialist.
Low-Voltage Electric Landscape Lighting
Low-voltage electric lights are the choice of many professional landscapers. The brightness of these lights is usually very high and they come in a variety of styles and finishes. The lights do require wiring; however, the wiring process is not terribly difficult. Low-voltage lighting options also allow for the addition of a timer and are a low-cost landscape lighting option.
Low-voltage landscape lights are ideal for lighting up your garden at night without spending too much on your electricity bills. It is powered by a transformer that can be attached to normal outdoor receptacles. Below are the benefits of low voltage lighting system.
Low-voltage landscape lights, when properly positioned and installed, enhance your landscape during night time without the dangers associated with line voltage lighting systems such as short circuits that are the common causes of home fires. A low-voltage landscape lighting system is also not a potential shock hazard since it is especially designed to operate in moist and wet areas.
What are the pros and cons of low voltage lighting?
An electric lighting system of professional grade can increase the value of your property and is a feature that new home buyers are usually interested in. The brightness of low voltage lighting also allows for visitors to locate your property at night with ease. Low-voltage lighting works great when you are looking to illuminate social areas, such as decks and gazebos. An overcast day won't leave you entertaining your guests in dim light.
On the downside, even the little bit of wiring required may best be left to a professional. The bulbs on low-voltage lights will need to be replaced and the wiring may require care as well. Though these lights do offer timers, the timers will need to be reset for daylight savings time.
Since we are on the subject of landscape lighting, this also includes any fences, trees, or even your house itself that you'd like to illuminate at night. If you do have accessibility to a standard 120V AC current known as line voltage lighting, you can install a spotlight kit in plug-in or in hard-wired form. You'll see lots of these lights around the holiday season that plug in, but with careful planning, you can install a line-voltage fixture that will last for years. While this may take extra work by way of installing wires and possibly using conduit, it produces the highest lumens/watts of any lighting system.
Another Category in the Deck and Stair Lights is called flush mounted. This kind of light is sometimes lumped together with low voltage lighting, but is really in a class of its own. These lights can be purchased in standard hard-wired (120V) as well as in low-voltage, so you have many options. They are installed flush in the stair riser, which will require accessibility behind it to wire it. I've seen customers use these indoors are well, it's really the safest night for stairs you can get. In this category we will also include post cap lights which are placed on top of a post to give higher lights that look amazing on a deck.
PROS: gives safety and security to seeing steps and decking outdoors/ post lights can come in wired or solar versions
CONS: accessibility behind and under the step/deck is required to install them/ needs proper placement to ensure no excessive water and moisture is contacting the internal electrical components
Other Exterior Lighting Options
This category is very broad, as it can be described as wall task lighting to even post lantern lights. Additionally, security and area exterior lighting is a different category than landscape lighting, but when done in unison, you can get a nice looking light display to compliment whatever you are illuminating.
PROS: 120v line-voltage lighting gives you the brightest landscape lighting possible/ no transformers or batteries to maintain over time/ can be controlled via an indoor switch
CONS: is the most time-consuming and complex wiring installation than other systems/wire will require direct burial/ local electrical codes should be addressed before starting job/ may require an electrician to install. After deciding which is the right lighting system for you, now is the time to set everything up! Some systems like line and low voltage systems will require you to plan out where and how to run the wire. The line voltage systems can be highly unique and can be installed in various lengths and ways.
With recent advances in lighting technology, there are more choices than ever when it comes to deciding what outdoor landscape light is right for you. So before you buy make sure you have an informed decision, this can save you hours of time in the long run.


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"New York Jets Express" Illuminated Train Collection
HO-scale, engine and cars light up, solid metal chassis, steel alloy wheels, team colors, symbols, player art. FREE track and power-pack, $100 value!
Train cars run on HO train track; complete oval track measures 38" x 56"
From Hawthorne Village
- Price:
- s&s◇
Wherever the New York Jets go, the fans are sure to follow. Now you can follow your team with a special NFL electric train collection, available only from The Bradford Exchange, Hawthorne Village Division. Proudly sporting the revered Green and White, this NFL football collectible is rollin' into your town with its starting line-up in Issue One featuring an impressive diesel locomotive. You won't "go long" before you receive Issue Two, the coordinating Jets engine, which includes a FREE HO-gauge track. The HO-scale train collection continues with Issue Three, a passenger train car, which includes your FREE power pack. Additional coordinating Jets train cars, each a separate issue, will follow.‡
Celebrate your favorite team all season long with this officially licensed collectible New York Jets train that will delight any fan, especially you! This sleek and classic electric train collection is boldly decorated with the colors and symbols of the New York Jets plus dramatic, full-color art of your favorite players in action - from the rookies to the tried-and-true veterans! Every inch of this handcrafted New York Jets NFL electric train set is precision scaled with authentic details - from the solid metal chassis and steel alloy wheels to the passenger train cars that actually light up. Hurry to bring home this unique NFL football collectible for you or give as a treasured football fan gift. Strong demand is anticipated. Order now!
- An HO-scale train collection celebrating the beloved New York Jets, available only from The Bradford Exchange, Hawthorne Village Division
- Officially licensed by NFL Properties LLC and PLAYERS INC
- Included FREE 16-piece HO-gauge track with Issue Two and a power pack with Issue Three - together a $100 value
- NFL football electric train collection is carefully handcrafted with precision detailing and authentic features including a solid metal chassis and steel alloy wheels to bring you years of enjoyment
- Each train car in this collectible New York Jets train set is richly detailed with the colors and symbols of your favorite team plus dramatic, full-color art of players in action
- The locomotive headlight and passenger train cars really light up for a fully illuminated display of the team's symbolic imagery that showcases your team spirit
- The heirloom-quality trains are precisely scaled: train is designed to run on HO-gauge track
- The perfect memorabilia to celebrate your team or give as a unique football fan gift
- Accompanied by Certificates authenticating your train cars are originals from The Bradford Exchange
- Individual train cars run on HO train track, complete oval track measures 38" x 56"; 96.5 cm x 142.2 cm
- Reserves the New York Jets Express Train Collection from The Bradford Exchange in your name so you never risk an increase on the price of other collectibles in this collection
- ‡Each issue will be shipped to your for your review, about one every month or two (pending availability), at the same low issue price and charged to the credit card on which your order was placed. No need to order each one separately
- You may cancel your collection at any time with no obligation
- "Issue One - the diesel locomotive" will be followed by "Issue Two - the B-unit engine with FREE HO gauge track," "Issue Three - a passenger collectible train car with FREE power pack" and additional collectible train cars decorated with New York Jets artwork as they become available
©2007 The Bradford Exchange


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"Is SWTOR worth playing?" This is the question that swtor beginners often ask before they start playing it. Therefore, Mmogah summarizes the newest opinions shared by some elite gamers on reddit, and hope to help you make the proper decisions.
1%, 2% and 3% discount via signing up on Mmogah.com Level 1: The total money you have spent is between 0-1999 USD - 1% discount Level 2: The total money you have spent is between 2000-3999 USD - 2% discount Level 3: The total money you have spent is larger than 4000 USD - 3% discount
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Welcome to the Word Art Wednesday/Stampin' Sisters in Christ Valentine's Blog Hop.
If you arrived here from Tabitha's blog, you're in the right place, but if you found me by chance, please go back and start at Word Art Wednesday. We are celebrating LOVE......God's love. All you need to do is visit each stop on the Blog Hop and leave a comment on each blog to be eligible for the Grand Prize from Stampin' Up.
I truly enjoy the "fluffy" worldly Valentines day we celebrate - heavens, any date that celebrates LOVE is so welcome, but there is a LOVE, a love that is deeper, more profound than anything we ever experience and that is a love that was borne out of the the sacrifice upon the cross which was made for us.
This is the love that steps in when the world crushes us and puts us out in the cold, leaves us alone, takes from us - this love is waiting right there to put His arms of love around you.
I constantly hear the question "Why does He allow bad things to happen to us?" It's because we live in a fallen world. He never promised things won't happen, that's life in our broken world. No, He never promised us we will not suffer at times, but He did promise He will be here to comfort and guide us when we allow Him in.
I don't know what you might be struggling with today but I'm praying as I post that you allow yourself to accept the greatest gift in life - the gift of God's pure love.
I hope you enjoy the Vintage Image or Fun Froggy Cut I've made for you as prizes for stopping by but don't forget to visit all the blogs to be eligible to win the big Stampin' Up prize.
My Vintage Image is in PNG format so will work for all your projects as it has a transparent background.
click on the flower graphic to be taken to Ge.tt
where you can download the FULL sized image!
You may use the Vintage image as you wish!
click on card picture above to be taken to Ge.tt to download zipped folder
My Frog file is for PERSONAL Non-Commercial use only.
Designer Paper - Junkitz Essentials Paper Z
My Froggy is my very own design, made specially for use with the Silhouette SD or Cameo. I was coveting this little feller but ah when love pierces one's heart it does funny things so I've decided to allow him to hop into YOUR life too! He's a sweet addition to a greeting card but can also perch on his own to cheer you up at work atop your computer monitor or even a "hoppy" addition to a child's lunch bag. I'd be delighted to see how you use him.
Both of these files will be archived in the TABS sections up top of my blog so you are able to come and visit any time should you misplace these.
When you've left your comment here, Miesje is next on the Hop, and I know she has something lovely for you to see. We hope you enjoy the Blog Hop, and we'd love to have you visit Word Art Wednesday regularly. Thanks for stopping by, and have a blessed day!
We will announce the Grand Prize winner on our Word Art Wednesday blog the afternoon of Tuesday, February 14.
Make sure your last stop should be at Stampin' Sisters in Christ where you will tell us you finished the entire blog hop.
Barbara (Me - you are HERE in the list, continue on until you've coverd each place!)


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Volume 3, Issue 4
April 15, 2004
In a consolidated appeal of two automobile injury cases in which the litigants were denied a jury trial in justice court, the Nevada Supreme Court invalidated a 1999 policy of the Las Vegas Township Justice Court that provides for jury trials only when the claimed damages are $5,000 or more. This policy was approved by the district court in order to preserve judicial resources. The Nevada Supreme Court, however, held that the Nevada Constitution secures to all the right of trial by jury, and provides that the right shall remain inviolate forever.
The Court further clarified that Nevada's jury trial right is defined by English common law as modified at the time of the adoption of the Nevada Constitution. Unlike other states, no dollar amount was attached to the right to a jury trial in Nevada. Thus, the Nevada Supreme Court concluded that the Nevada constitutional guaranty of trial by jury covers justice court civil actions even when small amounts are in controversy. The Court noted that a different conclusion may be warranted with respect to small claim actions in justice court, but did not reach the issue as the actions on appeal were not commenced as small claims actions.
As employers often find themselves in justice court, both as a plaintiff and defendant, this renewed right to a jury trial is an important development.
Aftercare of Clark County v. Justice Court of Las Vegas Township, No. 38625, 120 Nev. Adv. Op. No. 2 (Jan. 23, 2004).
KZA Employer Report articles are for general information only; they are not intended and should not be construed to be legal advice. Reading or replying to such articles does not establish an attorney-client relationship. In addition, because the subject matters and applicable laws discussed in Employer Report articles are often in a state of change and not always applicable to every type of business entity or organization, readers should consult with counsel before making decisions based on the same.


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Quote notes (#48)
Mass idiocy diagnosed at AoS:
Give a man a fish, and he'll eat for a day.
Teach a man to fish, and he'll eat for a lifetime.
Give a man a Cult of Fish, which talks a lot about the Wonders of Fish and the cult-leaders' ability to provide fish to all who want them (despite not doing so), and then he won't mind that you're not giving him any fish or teaching him how to fish either.
Because you've given him something better. You've given his empty life a semblance of meaning, and you've given his incoherent and craven thoughts some structure.
And he'll thank you for that forever. Even though, still, no fish.
He'll blame the Cult's list of approved devils for the lack of fish, and he'll praise you for your wondrous intentions to provide fish.
Or at least your determination to talk a lot about fish.
FILED UNDER :Political economy
TAGGED WITH :Fascism , Idiots , Politics , Religion


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Touring Exhibition – Black Mirror: Magic in Art
*Please note, this exhibition is currently unavailable for tour. Please check back for more information
Curated by Dominic Shepherd
TheGallery, AUB
Black Mirror: Magic in Art explores the influences and roles of magic, enchantment and the occult in contemporary art and how they function as aesthetic, conceptual and political forces. Through a multi-disciplined curatorial approach of 2D, 3D, film, video and performance art, Black Mirror will showcase the work of fourteen internationally recognised artists.
Modernism was built in the late nineteenth century, we live within its legacy; the same period created the foundations of modern magic as it is practised and understood today. The magical and occult have been much marginalised within the scholarship of twentieth century art, seen in opposition to enlightenment and progressive values. This exhibition challenges this premise, taking fourteen artists whom draw on the magical to propose that enchantment and occult are intertwined with contemporary issues.
Covering a period over the last thirty years a magical aesthetic is intrinsic to an engagement with environmentalism; feminism; gender; post-digital; neo-liberalism and nationalism. Black Mirror is an exhibition where the magical, occult and enchanted are activated as progressive forces that question and direct the flux in this uncertain age.
exhibiting artists
Jesse Bransford, Clinical Associate Professor; Department Chair, NYU Steinhardt
Siân Bowen, Professor of Drawing, AUB
Lindsey Bull, Artist
Tom Butler, Artist
Willem de Bruijn, Senior Lecturer in Architecture, AUB
Tessa Farmer, Artist
Heywood and Condie, Artists
Jason Martin, Artist
Judith Noble, Associate Dean Media, Plymouth College of Art
Paula Rego, Artist
Dominic Shepherd, Associate Professor Fine Art, AUB
Mark Titchner, Artist
Suzanne Treister, Artist
Marie von Heyl, Artist
Meet the exhibition curator: Associate Professor Dominic SHepherd
Dominic Shepherd is Dorset based Artist and Senior Lecturer in MA Fine Art at the Arts University Bournemouth. He studied at the Chelsea School of Art and graduated with both a BA and MA in Fine Art. Dominic is a prize winner of the 2004 John Moores Prize, a prestigious prize that showcases avant-garde paintings. In 2008, he undertook a research fellowship at AUB and in 2015, he was made an Associate Professor at the University.
He has exhibited internationally with an extensive record of group and solo shows in London, New York, Berlin and Los Angeles and is represented by Charlie Smith London. He has also been included in and written for, various publications.
Dominic is presently the co-coordinator (with Judith Noble and Jesse Bransford) of the Black Mirror Network that explores the influence and role of Enchantment, the occult and magic in modernist and contemporary art.
MEET THE Publication CURATOR: Dr. Willem de Bruijn
Willem de Bruijn is a Senior Lecturer in Architecture at the Arts University Bournemouth, where he teaches Contextual Studies and supervises research degrees. He holds an MSc in Architecture (2001) from the TU Delft and a PhD in History and Theory of Architecture (2010) from The Bartlett School of Architecture, London. Willem previously co-curated several research-led exhibitions at The Bartlett School of Architecture and is currently publication curator and designer for the catalogue accompanying the Black Mirror exhibition.
As part of his doctoral research, Willem investigated the historical and conceptual connections between architecture and alchemy, focusing on texts published during the early seventeenth century (the literary baroque). He has made books incorporating material drawn from these sources to construct spaces for contemplation and wonder in the largely forgotten tradition of the emblem, a favourite medium of literati, occultists and alchemists alike. The Black Mirror: Magic in Art publication will again revisit this tradition through its emphasis on the interplay between the verbal and the visual in its design.
Touring venues
The exhibition will be available for tour, for enquiries and further information please contact: firstname.lastname@example.com
Past Venues
23 November 2017 – 1 February 2018
TheGallery, AUB
The Black Mirror: Magic in Art exhibition began and originated at the TheGallery, Arts University Bournemouth in 2017. The exhibition explored the influences and roles of magic, enchantment and the occult in contemporary art in conjunction with the work of The Black Mirror Research Network. This network originated at AUB with their work exploring the influence and roles of magic in modernist and contemporary art in an international context.
The Ancient Art of Rituals: Palo Mayombe
TheGallery at the Arts University Bournemouth presents as part of Black Mirror: Magic in Art, the documentary, The Ancient Art of Rituals: Palo Mayombe.
In response to the exhibition, staff and students from AUB performed their interpretation of the Palo Mayombe ritual dance that originated in Cuba. The performance was part of The Ancient Art of Rituals event held on 18 January 2018 and has been adapted into an art film showing behind the scenes with the curators and dancers.
The documentary goes into more depth about the ritual dance and its origins and features interviews with each of the dancers and the exhibition organisers. It will be featured on display as a part of the touring exhibition.
Black Mirror Featured Publication
Black Mirror: Magic in Art features works and biographies by the artists participating in the Black Mirror: Magic in Art exhibition hosted by TheGallery, AUB. It also contains an introduction by Dominic Shepherd, which contextualises the work on display; a contribution by Professor Emma Hunt, AUB; and essays by Jesse Bransford and Willem de Bruijn that open up further avenues of investigation into the realm of magic, art and architecture. Not exactly a conventional exhibition catalogue, the publication aims to present a selection of work within a space different from that of the gallery, but equally committed to bringing about thematic connections between the artists and their work.
Black Mirror: Magic in Art
Published by text + work, TheGallery, AUB
2017, Softcover with images
Publication includes contributions by Associate Professor Dominic Shepherd, Willem de Bruin and Professor Emma Hunt
Available to purchase from TheGallery Office or the AUB online store
Interview: Dominic Shepherd on Black Mirror, art and the occult
Interview by Rupert White on artcornwall.org
Art Cornwall is an online art journal compiled and edited in Cornwall, UK.
How did 'Black Mirror' first come about? Who was behind it?
Judith Noble and I met at the Arts University Bournemouth in 2013. We established fairly quickly our mutual interest in the occult and magic. Judith saw my artworks in an exhibition in London (eg 'Baptism' (2012) right), and she was organising 'Visions of Enchantment' conference at Cambridge University with Dan Zamani.
Through discussion we realised there was a space and need to create a platform that explored the influence of the occult, magic and enchantment on modern and contemporary visual arts. We formulated, with the help of Arts University Bournemouth, the premise for the Black Mirror research network. Very quickly Robert Ansell of Fulgur Esoterica joined us in wishing to publish a series of volumes to further our aims, which was fantastic.
Through Robert we met Jesse Bransford (cf picture below left) of New York University and so it has grown into an international network. Still it grows.
Read more of the interview at artcornwall.org
Black Mirror Research Network
The Black Mirror Research Network originated at Arts University Bournemouth and explores the influence and roles of magic, the occult and enchantment in modernist and contemporary arts in an international context.
The network is a partnership between AUB, Plymouth College of Art, NYU Steinhardt and publisher Fulgur Esoterica. The network promotes and facilititates publicates , exhibitions, conferences and other events. The next Black Mirror event is Seeking the Marvellous: Ithell Colquhoun, British Women and Surrealism, 22nd and 23rd March 2018 hosted by Plymouth College of Art.
The peer reviewed publication 'Black Mirror', soon to launch its third issue Elsewhere, is a platform to articulate and share the remit of the Network. The editors of the Black Mirror publication series are Robert Ansell (Fulgur Esoterica Press), Jesse Bransford (NYU Steinhardt), Merlin Cox (Warburg Institute), Judith Noble (PCA) and Dominic Shepherd (AUB). Many of the thirteen artists in this exhibition have previously appeared in the Black Mirror publication.
Steinhardt – New York University
NYU Steinhart's mission is to advance knowledge, creativity, and innovation at the crossroads of culture, education, and human development with their integration of education, communication, health, and the arts.
Plymouth College of Art
Plymouth College of Art opened in January 1856 with the aim of providing high-quality education for life in contemporary arts practice, as the creative catalyst for personal, professional and cultural transformation.
Fulgur Esoterica
FULGUR is the leading independent publisher of esotericism and magic in visual culture. They work with artists and writers to develop projects that explore ideas of enchantment, relevance and agency.
Charlie Smith London
Charlie Smith London was established in October 2009 with the objective of running an exhibition programme of dedicated one person exhibitions and dynamic curated group shows. Specialising in emerging to mid-career artists, the gallery's approach is collaborative and curatorial and emphasizes work that engages critically with profound human and historical themes.


text:
We build commercial and enterprise software
services, for commerce and music.
We're a software company, owned and operated by brothers, Nick & Tom Mango. We build large scale commercial and enterprise software services, with a specialization in commerce and music.
Our direct to fan products, Limited Run & Card Included, help labels and artists sell millions of dollars worth of music and merchandise around the world. We also run the Rails Rumble, a yearly programming competition for Ruby developers.
A premium direct to fan solution.
A self-serve download card service.
A distributed programming competition.
In addition to our commercial offerings, we build, deploy, and manage custom enterprise platforms.
With more than 10 years in the software industry, our experience allows us to design and develop any solution, large or small.
If you're interested in learning more about a custom deployment, please contact us.
P.O. Box 823, Manorville, NY 11949


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Many of us are offended because we cannot control our tongues. We gossip and backbite, and many people are offended because of what people say. The Word says that, "Life or Death, is in the power of the tongue." When people continue to use their tongue whether it be people in the pulpit or people in the pews, it can cause divisions and factions among people. This is what Paul was talking about in Corinthians when he said, "Some of you say I am of Paul," "Some of you, of Cephas, and some of you of Apollos". He was talking about the divisions between the factions among the people. He was trying to unite people, while people were just trying to pick sides in the Body of Christ, when the Body of Christ is actually one.
One of the contributing factors to disagreements between church members is gossipping and backbiting. When we can't control our mouths, and this is part of the fruit of the Spirit, then this leads to areas of our lives that can lead to destruction because when we can't control our mouths, the destiny to love has been taken out of the picture.
This is why I find James 3 very profound, and very applicable to the way we are supposed to lead our lives.
Taming the Tongue
1 Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2 We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.
Sometimes we have church leaders, and they have their spiritual leaders, who in their preaching may cause others to stumble if they are not careful. They may be trying to preach the Word of God, and what God has revealed to them, but they have to take in to consideration and so does the rest of the body of Christ – 1 Peter 5
To the Elders and the Flock
1 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ's sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
5 In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
"God opposes the proud
but shows favor to the humble."[a]
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 11 To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
When we let their be disagreements between our leaders or others in the Body of Christ, then the whole body is hurting. These disagreements can also be dug in deeper when talk about the leaders or other members in the Church.
One of the things that deters forgiveness in a person life is not being able to control the tongue. There's a saying – if you can't say anything nice, then don't say anything at all. So what are Church members supposed to do when they are seething inside. This is a time to talk to God because the whole Christian walk is about your relationship to God and how much you know Him, and how close you walk to Him. You really need to spend time with Him. Sometimes that may include getting into His Word, but sometimes, and it should be more often cultivating this relationship with Him, where you can confide in Him, when you don't have anyone to confide in. You can trust God with your problems and He is there to answer, and He will be the solution to your problems. Some people have been so sheltered that they always have somebody to talk to, but the real test comes when you are alone with Him. When you are alone with Him, how do you spend your time? Some people might think, how can I come to Him always with problems, but that's what He is there for. He is your Counselor. He is there to meet your needs. He is El Shaddai, He is Jehovah Jireh. He is Jesus Christ our Lord, and in Him we can trust. Sometimes we just have to go through things with that relationship with Him without contributing to idle talk, gossip, and slander. If you know someone else is going to gossip about someone, avoid talking to them about the person they don't like and just stay on neutral issues.
James 3 continues:
3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
This particularly talks about how what we say can set a whole things in motion. What we say can affect our thoughts, attitudes, and emotions. They can keep us walking out of love. So we must bridle or pierce the tongue as not to start a whole forest fire of problems, which no one can control, and it just takes God's glory out of life.
7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God's likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
Apparently, the Holy Spirit had given James an understanding of human nature, which is so prevalent in society today. He says that we can be singing "Hallelujah!" at church, and then come home and say, "I don't like the way the pastor is preaching; I don't like the way the worship team is singing; I don't like the way someone does this or that." He new it was human nature, but it wasn't Christ's nature, He didn't gossip about people. Proverbs talks about widows that are true widows and false widows who are just busybodies, that like to go around gossipping about other people. That kind of reminds me of the Matchmaker in Fiddler on the Roof, (I have yet to finish watching that movie), but Proverbs talked women that had no other business than to go around and talk about other people. The Bible also tells us to "mind your business". It's your own life you need to be worried about, and not theirs. Proverbs like I mentioned before in one of my other blogs says "Foolish people vent, but a wise man keeps things to himself." It takes restrain on our part that helps in that area and discipline. We can be going two or three days without talking about the person, but then can we keep it up? Can we keep it up for the rest of our lives? Can we say to ourselves that I am not going to let anyone's actions defile my mouth? Because it may be too late in some cases and it can even tear you away from the Word of God because you won't be able to concentrate and have the proper focus and rightly divide the Word of God because you have set your rudder off course by not controlling your tongue.
Some Christians even though they think they are well intentioned say, "Please pray about this person. This person has this 'sinful issue' or 'unsatisfactory walk with God'" But they are defaming that person's reputation. No one wants to defame the person's reputation, but it gets defamed. I think we're all guilty of that as Christians at some point. Remember what you do in secret, God rewards you openly. The same can be applied to what we say about others in secret. Everything is going to be revealed. Nothing is hidden from God's sight. God is going to look at you the same as he looks at the next person. We shouldn't judge others because by the same measure we will be judged. You can start off your gossip by saying, "I don't want to judge, but…" Well if you don't want to judge then don't. If you don't want to criticize then don't. Jesus said, "Treat others the way you want to be treated." If you wanted someone talking about you everytime you walked out of the room then would you like that?
If you've ever been around a Schizophrenic person who has paranoia and thinks everyone is talking about them, then that is a devestating thing to watch especially when it's you who is going through it. If you wouldn't want everyone watching you and talking you and mocking you and gossipping about you then don't do that to other people. Stay away from people that like to gossip and learn to be happy in silence. If your still suffering in your heart then talk to God about it. I am sure He understands. He will bring peace to the situation. Pour out your heart to God. After a while of gossipping so much about a person you start to distrust them, and when you distrust them, then that shows that you have built distrust into into your character. Or that you have a critical nature that has to be put on the altar.
Remember in Exodus the Israelites were complaining about Moses and Aaron, and how they didn't like the way the two of them were leading the flock of the Israelites? Moses and Aaron said, "who are we that you are complaining against us?". Sometimes we hold people in leadership up on a platform that we judge them by higher standards, but essentially we are to not judge them as much as we judge ourselves. Jesus said, "We see the speck in our brother's eye, but we don't see the plank [or log]in our own eye." Sometimes when we hear a sermon we think, oh, so and so can use that sermon, but we fail to look at our own heart and say that this really applies to me and how can I change? If it doesn't affect you then, it will affect you later.
I think Joyce Meyer put it best, "Sometimes you have a nose brushed right up against an armpit". It may be uncomfortable for a while, but if you can endure to the point that you do not sin then that is victory for you and every little victory builds up in this tower of faith that's being built for the kingdom of God.
I was going to talk about this message before, and I don't know if I have a post with the same exact topic, but this needed to be said. Especially now. Especially now that the Church or Body of Christ and Pastors are being attacked like never before.
Heavenly Father,
I pray that You unite the Body of Christ each according to it's function and restore peace among it's members. Unite us with You being the Head of the faith, and let people founded on the rock of Your salvation enter into your rest. Help the Body of Christ in it's weak areas and help build us to be divine carriers of the Christ kind of love to the nations. As it declared in Heaven so shall it be on Earth.
In Jesus Mighty Name I pray,


text:
A stroke (sometimes called a "brain attack") happens when blood circulation to the brain fails.
A few minutes without oxygen and important nutrients from the blood can damage or kill affected brain cells.
Sometimes cell damage can be repaired and some lost skills regained. However, the death of brain cells is permanent.
Most strokes are caused by a blood clot or narrowing of a blood vessel (artery) leading to the brain. Other strokes are caused by a haemorrhage (bleeding) from an artery.
Other strokes are caused by a haemorrhage (bleeding) from an artery.
There are three major types of stroke:
Thrombotic strokes: are caused by fatty deposits (plaques) that have built up in the arteries carrying blood to the brain. This slows blood flow and can cause clots to form on the plaques that narrow or block the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the brain
An embolic stroke: is caused by a blood clot formed in another part of the body that breaks loose, travels through the bloodstream, and blocks an artery carrying oxygen and nutrients to the brain. When travelling through the body the blood clot is called an embolus
A hemorrhagic stroke: is caused when an artery supplying blood bleeds into the brain. The broken blood vessel prevents needed oxygen and nutrients from reaching brain cells. One type of hemorrhagic stroke is caused when an artery that has weakened over time bulges (called an aneurysm) and suddenly bursts
What are Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs)?
Transient ischemic attacks are episodes in which the symptoms of a stroke develop but then disappear within a few minutes of a few hours. TIAs may be a warning that a permanent stroke could occur.
It is very important to call an ambulance whenever
you experience any stroke symptoms.
Most TIAs are caused by partial blockage of arteries in the neck. As small blood clots attempt to pass through these partially blocked carotid arteries, they may become temporarily lodged in that area, temporarily preventing blood flow to a part of the brain. As the blood flow is restored, the symptoms the patient may experience generally disappear without any permanent damage.
A surgical procedure called an "endarterectomy" may be done to remove the fatty substance (plaque) formed on the walls of the artery. By removing this partial blockage, a larger and more permanent stroke may be prevented.
Recurrent Stroke
Recurrent stroke is frequent; about 25 percent of people who recover from their first stroke will have another stroke within 5 years.
Recurrent stroke is a major contributor to stroke disability and death, with the risk of severe disability or death from stroke increasing with each stroke recurrence. The risk of a recurrent stroke is greatest right after a stroke, with the risk decreasing with time. About 3 percent of stroke patients will have another stroke within 30 days of their first stroke and one-third of recurrent strokes take place within 2 years of the first stroke.
Stroke and Ischemic Attacks – Depression
Depression can strike anyone, but people with serious illnesses such as stroke may be at greater risk.
The Effects of a Stroke / Ischemic Attack
A person who has a stroke may suffer little or no brain damage and disability, especially if the stroke is treated promptly. But stroke can lead to severe brain damage and disability, or even death.
Do You Have High Blood Pressure?
Then you need to read this book, by New Zealand author, Dr. David Lovell-Smith.
In this book, Dr. David Lovell-Smith describes how his patients successfully used diet, lifestyle changes, and Transcendental Meditation to bring their blood pressure down.
This book offers new hope and insight for those with high blood pressure but it is not for hypertensives alone. The knowledge which Dr. Lovell-Smith presents in his book is timely and relevant, and its exposition is long overdue.
Click here to read more about "Perfect Blood Pressure"


text: After college (in the 80s), several friends with a passion for German cars had purchased used grey market vehicles. I did some research and found several grey market cars for sale in the classifieds. Some made their way to US soil because the owner purchased it while working in Europe and they brought it home with them. I still remember my friend's 1971 Mercedes coupe with its speedometer in kilometers per hour. With the exception of the "classics" section of the classifieds on Web sites like this one, it is very rare to see grey market cars listed for sale. I am not sure if there is a specific cause or reason. Maybe the Government regulations don't permit expats and military personnel to bring EU models home to the US. As I read postings here and on other forums, I sense a common desire among other BMW enthusiasts to have EU models brought to the US. Whether its the 1-Series sport wagon or a twin-turbo diesel powered 5-Series, there seems to be a demand that BMW is failing to meet. Remembering my friend with his grey market Mercedes, I can't help wonder if there is an opportunity for a grey market now. Is there a market for used 120d or 535d models? I would love to see more diesel drivers who can achieve Prius-like fuel efficiency, but can quickly accelerate onto the freeway. With so many quality BMW-certified mechanics in major metropolitan areas, I would love to make a deal for them to service 120d and 535d models and start my own business bringing quality used cars to the US. My question is whether car club members who have posted their desire for these cars would purchase them if they were available.


text:
Tuesday Market in Lauraville
begins on
June 3rd, 4-8pm
Many of our familiar vendors are returning for the sixth season,
and a few new vendors have joined. Check the list to the right to see who will
attend the 2014 market. A few others will join soon.
Please mark your calendars for the opening of the market
and spend some time greeting your neighbors!
St. Veronica's Youth Steel Orchestra
will help to bring the market back to life!
Mark your calendars for an evening of neighborhood fun every Tuesday evening, 4-8pm
June - October
More music, more vendors, more fun...
right in your own back yard!
Hike or bike & leave the car at home.


text:
The fun and exciting moment arrives when everyone finds out the gender at the same time as the new mom and dad cut into the cake to discover whether they are welcoming a boy or girl!
Mountain View, CA (PRWEB) October 24, 2012
Beau-coup (http://www.beau-coup.com), an online destination for favors, supplies, decorations, and gifts for all of life's special events, predicts today that non-traditional baby showers will be the norm in the new year. The company has observed a trend among its baby shower customers – many are opting to skip traditional baby showers in favor of celebrations that more closely reflect their personal style and beliefs. Below are the top ten baby shower alternatives Beau-coup predicts will be big in 2013.
1. Diaper Showers
How it works: Diapers are the one thing every new parent needs – and they will need a mountain of diapers in the coming months. Each guest is asked to bring diapers and diaper changing supplies like wipes and ointments in lieu of gifts. Diaper showers are common for mothers who are having a second or third child, but they are also a great way to help out a new mom.
Make it unique: Request a particular brand or type of diaper –biodegradable diapers are popular among eco-conscious new mothers right now. Cloth diapers and diaper rental services are also growing in popularity. To encourage participation, enter guests into a "Diaper raffle" – one entry per pack of diapers. Have a drawing at the end of the shower, and present a prize to the winner.
2. Casserole Showers
How it works: It is important for mom and dad to stay happy and healthy while they focus on those crucial first months of their new baby's life. With a casserole shower, friends and family can ensure the new parents have enough food to last them through those first few weeks of sleepless nights spent looking after the little one. Between caring for baby and work, many a mom and dad would forget to eat entirely if it were not for caring friends and family.
Make it unique: Request that guests bring an easily-stored family meal designed to go directly from freezer to oven. For guests who do not cook, they can opt to bring a gift card to a local take out restaurant, or be on call to babysit in the event mom and dad need a night out. If freezer space is an issue (and it likely will be!), have some participants sign up to bring their home-cooked dishes on a designated day instead.
3. Book Showers
How it works: Parents who are bibliophiles may hope to pass on their love of books to their little ones. By having a book shower complete with cute bookmark favors, mom and dad can build a child-friendly library of books that will help their little bookworm grow and learn.
Make it unique: Encourage guests to be creative with their books. Have a "Once Upon a Time" or "Tall Tale" theme, or ask people to bring a copy of their favorite childhood books to share.
4. "Dadchelor" Parties
How it works: New dads are celebrating their impending fatherhood the same way they are celebrating their weddings – with one last day of freedom before the big day. With a "dadchelor" party, the father-to-be gets to spend a day with his buddies doing…well, whatever he wishes.
Make it unique: These celebrations can be as elaborate as the bachelor party, complete with a trip to Vegas and guys' night out. Alternatively, they can be a low key day of golf, or gathering of guys who come together to grill, drink beer, and watch sports before baby's arrival.
5. Girls' Night
How it works: Instead of showering the new mom with gifts, her best gal pals can get together with mom-to-be and spoil her rotten before baby arrives. Many new moms truly enjoy one last day of pampering with close friends before their lives become all about baby.
Make it unique: This kind of celebration can suit any number of personalities. Make it a girls' night in with a home-cooked meal and "mocktails" (non-alcoholic for mom, of course!). Or the girls can take mom-to-be out for manicures, pedicures, and a shopping spree.
6. Gender Reveal Party
How it works: A gender reveal party requires early planning. Parents-to-be have to keep the baby's gender a secret from friends and family, and maybe even themselves, for it to work. Ask the ultrasound technician to write the sex down on a piece of paper, and seal it in an envelope. That envelope gets handed to the baker who then bakes either a pink cake or blue cake depending on whether the baby is a girl or a boy. The cake then gets covered in white frosting until the pink or blue cake is completely hidden. Have guests show up at the party dressed in either pink or blue to indicate which sex they believe the cake will reveal. The fun and exciting moment arrives when everyone finds out the gender at the same time as the new mom and dad cut into the cake to discover whether they are welcoming a boy or girl!
Make it unique: Get creative with the reveal – it does not need to be colored cake. Fill a giant box with pink or blue colored helium balloons for a dramatic and pretty way to share the big news. Or, get custom-printed scratch-off cards. Each guest can feel like a winner as they scratch off their cards to expose the new baby's gender.
7. Adoption Celebrations
How it works: Many new parents adopt or foster rather than conceiving traditionally. Many of these new parents may have adoption celebrations called "Welcome Home" parties, or "Meet the Baby" gatherings. Adoption celebrations are a great way to ensure the new parents have everything they need to help raise their adoptive child.
Make it unique: Take into consideration the adoptive baby's origins. Consider throwing a party that pays homage to their country of birth, or having a themed party that celebrates an older child's interests.
8. Sip 'N' See
How it works: A sip 'n' see is a "meet the baby" party. It is the perfect opportunity for friends and family to come visit the new parents and their little bundle of joy a few weeks after the birth. A smaller production than a traditional baby shower, a sip 'n' see is a great way to get in some quiet bonding time with light refreshments.
Make it unique: Make it a themed event, whether it is tea time with mom and dad or happy hour with the happy family.
9. Blessingway
How it works: In a blessingway, the new mother's friends and family share their well wishes and positive thoughts for mom and baby. Traditionally, a blessingway (also called a mother blessing ceremony) is a ritual carried out with the mother's female friends and family members. It comes from a Navajo tradition meant to heal and invoke positive blessings. The focus is more on positive energy and shared bonds rather than gifts and games.
Make it unique: Plan the ceremony to celebrate mom-to-be and her interests. If she loves art, make a belly cast or have canvases on hand for guests to paint. If she loves jewelry, invite guests to make bracelets and necklaces for one another as a reminder of their special bond.
10. Baby Naming
How it works: A baby naming ceremony is a non-religious way for parents to make a spiritual and emotional commitment to their baby. Traditionally, the new parents choose the baby's name and reveal it to close friends and family, while making a vow to love and protect the child. This is an increasingly popular event where parents can publicly welcome the new addition to their family.
Make it unique: Unlike Baptisms and Christenings, naming ceremonies are more informal and festive and can be held at any time, on any day of the week. Plan a themed naming ceremony at home with family, or have the ceremony in a public space with important people in the new parents' lives. Then send guests home with beautiful baby shower favors as a special keepsake.
Beau-coup is an innovative and leading retailer in the online party favors, gifts and supplies industry. Founded in 2002, Beau-coup's mission is to offer an unmatched selection of unique and quality products to help celebrate all of life's special occasions.


text:
Data Privacy & Cyber Security Law
How companies collect and use consumer data – and how they inform consumers of those practices – is increasingly in the public eye. With several high profile data mining debacles, online privacy is a hot topic among government regulators, consumer advocacy groups and industry leaders. It's also a topic generating attention among consumers. These days, consumers are more regularly reading websites' and apps' terms and conditions, which they used to hastily click through. And government agencies and private groups are policing companies' practices to monitor whether companies are complying with their own privacy policies.
Companies doing business online need to think hard about their privacy policies. Increasing numbers of enforcement actions to ensure companies comply with privacy policies leads to the reality that companies also need to vet their data collection and usage practices.
Ifrah Law offers extensive experience in drafting privacy policies for various clients and website operators, as well as in litigation of privacy matters dealing with issues of data and information. Attorneys represent businesses and individuals with counsel on information storage and rights of retrieval, including criminal background websites and children's privacy protections online through COPPA.
Ifrah Law's GDPR Services
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) became effective on May 25, 2018, and dramatically changed the way that companies which collect, store, or mine the personal data of European residents do business. Failure to comply risks lawsuits and significant fines.
Ifrah Law can help you navigate the requirements for how companies handle personal data. Our reasonably priced fixed fee program will review your current business practices and update your provisions and protocols to help your organization ensure that it is GDPR compliant.
Does GDPR Apply To You?
Data Privacy
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Takedown Notice Success for an International VIP
When a blogger posted information from a hacked computer about an important Middle Eastern leader, Ifrah Law was asked to help. The site contained threats to the national security of the politician's country as well as the United States – and to the life of the politician. The matter needed immediate attention and we responded to get the site (and others where the statements had been posted) taken down.
The case was made more complex when two web hosting companies created a sub-domain for the website, and refused to disclose their users – as is their privacy policy.
But the law offers some remedies of its own. One is the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), which is U.S. copyright law as well as part of two World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) treaties. The DMCA assigns no liability to an Internet service Provider (ISP) for transmitting information that may infringe a copyright, but it forces the ISP to remove materials from users' websites that appear to be copyright infringement. The DMCA provides for a takedown notice to be sent to an infringer's ISP.
Ifrah Law successfully utilized takedown notices with two of the blogger's ISPs as well as Facebook and is pursuing other sites. We impressed upon the web hosting companies that the content posed an immediate threat to national security. We also emphasized to one company that the blogger had violated their terms and conditions.
Privacy issues on the Internet may be rampant, but they do not have to be a fact of life.
Ensuring TCPA Compliance for a Global Provider of Customer Management Services
On behalf of our client, a leading provider of customer management services with call centers around the world, Ifrah Law led a full-scale review of its customer communications to ensure that they comply with federal and state requirements, including those of the TCPA and the FTC's Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR). We addressed the many different types of calls that the company undertakes on behalf of its varied customer base – service calls, appointments, live sales calling and pre-recorded calls – to ensure that its call centers are using consistent protocols and controls in the United States, and that these protocols are in compliance with the TCPA and TSR. Our client trusted Ifrah Law with this extensive project due to our long history with managing TCPA matters – we have been involved with the TCPA since its inception in 1991 – and due to our prior work for the client, including successfully representing the client in two FCC inquiries.
We worked with the company's Director of Privacy to develop a thorough understanding of the types of calls that the company makes for its customers, and the contractual protections that are in place and which could be revised to protect the company further. A critical aspect of this project was to educate leaders within the company that there are different TCPA requirements based on the type of call: technology used, person being called, whether the call is pre-recorded or live; mobile or business. We also wrote the call center guidelines and controls to ensure that all employees – from those being trained to the marketing team – had the same information regarding how to handle different types of customer call projects.
This large-scale process took a year to complete. Once the documentation was finalized, our client was ready to begin a company-wide training program on the guidelines, well in advance of TCPA rule changes.
Equifax Settlement Teaches The Dos and Dont's About Data Security
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The California Consumer Privacy Act: The Who, What, When, Why…and How.
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The Spite Girls: It'll be all smiles today as they reunite to launch a musical. But behind the scenes, it's been one heck of a catfight!
Despite the tantrums it's taken to bring all five of them together, it will be broad — if rigid — smiles all round at today's press conference to announce the Spice Girls' new stage musical, Viva Forever!
At the event, the producer Judy Craymer, who brought Mamma Mia! to the stage, will confirm the show will open before Christmas at the Piccadilly Theatre, London.
And, after protracted negotiations, she will be joined by the five girls themselves — Victoria Beckham, Mel B, Emma Bunton, Mel C and Geri Halliwell. Jennifer Saunders, who wrote the script for the musical will be there, too.
Early days: Each member of the group, pictured in 1996, was given their own nickname - from left to right - 'Sporty' Mel C, 'Ginger' Geri Halliwell, 'Baby' Emma Bunton, 'Scary' Mel B and 'Posh' Victoria Beckham
Who Do You Think You Are?: The Spice Girls giving one of their most memorable performances at the 1997 Brit Awards
But it is a singular irony that the 'Girl Power' musical has done little to bring the five Spice Girls together. They may have once sung: 'Friendship never ends' but the association between them remains uneasy as the women approach their 40th birthdays.
They have agreed — under a three-line whip from former manager Simon Fuller — that they will appear together for today's press conference and be in the same room together on opening night.
But that is absolutely it. They won't give joint interviews to a forthcoming ITV documentary tracing their lives from the early Spice Girls days. And they certainly won't sing together or reunite as a band.
Indeed, Mel C and Mel B took to Twitter to express their disappointment at not being involved in the Diamond Jubilee concert earlier this month.
Together again: The Spice Girls briefly reunited for a world tour in 2007
The girls performing in Vancouver, Canada, in 2007, on the first night of The Return of Spice Girls World Tour which was cut short 'due to family and personal commitments'
High flyers: The Spice Girls after naming a Virgin Atlantic Boeing 747 plane 'Spice One' in their honor at Los Angeles International Airport in December 2007
Mel C said: 'Bit miffed I'm not down at Buckingham Palace'; while Mel B tweeted, 'Makes me sooo sad spice girls wasn't part of the queens jubilee, break my heart big time, i was so up for it, watched some of it on tv, amazing!'
But it wasn't for lack of asking that the Spice Girls weren't on stage that night. The group had been approached. Mel B, Mel C, Geri and Emma Bunton were all available. However, Victoria Beckham told one newspaper that they were all too busy with 'lots on our plates'.
In truth, the only person who was 'too busy' was Mrs Beckham herself. She and her husband, David, remain Simon Fuller's biggest clients. They are so close that she even uses his offices as a base for UK meetings of her fashion label, and she regularly parks her daughter, Harper, in his office with a nanny and bodyguard while she works.
Geri Halliwell is currently a judge on the X Factor alongside Simon Cowell, Cheryl Cole and Louis Walsh
Victoria, 38, who has made a success of her second career as a fashion designer, has no interest in revisiting her first as a singer.
In a recent interview, she conceded that she hadn't been any great shakes as a pop star and found the whole episode rather an embarrassment.
Go team! Mel C has been announced as one of the official supporters of Team Great Britain in the lead up to the Olympics
'I enjoy what I'm doing now so much more,' she said. 'Being in the Spice Girls was fantastic, but I was never going to be the best singer and it wasn't my passion.'
As you might imagine, this may put Fuller in a tricky position from time to time as he also represents the other Spice Girls. This, perhaps, led to the snarky comments from the rest of the group who would have liked to take another bow — if only Victoria had consented to join them.
Eighteen years after the girls were first brought together, fierce feuds divide the group. The principal battle-line is the one drawn between Victoria and Mel B, 37 — although there have been several spectacular fallings-out in recent years between Geri and Mel C, who objected to Geri's attitude during their ill-fated reunion in 2007, and another between Geri and Victoria, fuelled apparently by jealousy.
Friends of Mel B say she and Victoria haven't spoken in two years — and it would take a miracle for them to reconcile.
The origins of the latest feud are petty. The pair apparently fell out when Victoria declined to lend Mel a dress from her collection to wear on her reality show in the U.S.
This may have been wise as the show, Mel B: It's A Scary World, fell far short of the upscale image of the Victoria Beckham brand.
Mel tried to get her solo career off the ground amid heavily staged bickering with second husband Stephen Belafonte. Her daughter by first husband Jimmy Gulzar and Angel, a love-child by Hollywood actor Eddie Murphy, looked on.
Mel B and Victoria pointedly send tweets to the rest of the band without including each other. And the divisions do not end there.
Not happy: Mel B took to Twitter to express her unhappiness that the Spice Girls weren't part of the Jubilee concert
Actions speak louder than words: Emma Bunton retweeted fans messages that said the Spice Girls should have been part of the show
Viva Forever! has unleashed a fresh wave of discontent and in-fighting. The five girls have been consulted about the show, which will use the band's greatest hits as a backing track to an original storyline.
The musical will tell the story of a young woman, Viva, who appears on a reality talent contest. She's then put together with four other girls in a manufactured band, who go on to enjoy global success — but at the price of broken friendships.
'The show isn't about the Spice Girls directly, but it is sprinkled with their essence,' says producer Judy Craymer.
It will include the songs Wannabe, Who Do You Think You Are? and Mama — all number ones during the Spice Girls' heyday.
Royal approval: In 2002 Emma Bunton, now a Heart FM DJ, performed at the Golden Jubilee concert
Royal seal of approval: The Spice Girls met the Queen in 1997 after appearing in The Royal Variety Performance
The deal to bring the show to the stage was struck with Simon Fuller in late 2009. Negotiations, however, have been protracted.
One report in the U.S. suggested: 'Melanie Brown and Melanie Chisholm can't agree on anything. It's driving Jennifer Saunders crazy.'
A spokesman for the show denied that there had been conflict, but did concede that the girls had very different levels of involvement.
Mel C, 37, Emma, 36, and 39-year-old Geri have been to meetings in London as the show has been slowly put together over the past few years. Mel B and Victoria, who both live abroad, have had far less input.
A spokesman for the show insists: 'The girls are tremendously supportive of it. Judy has kept everyone up to date with what is going on, and no one has put their foot down about anything.'
Look at my work! Former popstar Victoria Beckham, pictured surrounded by mannequins showing off her latest designs, is now concentrating on her successful career as a fashion designer
In an interview, Jennifer Saunders said: 'Before I started writing, I chatted to Emma and Mel C together because they live in London. I later talked to Geri, while Judy spoke to Mel B and Victoria.
'Geri was the one who wanted to know most about how the girls in the fictional group got on. What was lovely was explaining which song went where, and then they'd share memories of what happened when they recorded the individual songs.
A-list celebrities: David and Victoria Beckham have become famous all over the world
'They have real affection for each other, and it's also clear this was a very special time of their lives.'
Her comments ring hollow, however, when you know that each interview had to be conducted separately.
For, as was proved by the Spice Girls' comeback tour in 2007, these are women who have moved in very different directions.
Indeed the much-publicised tour was such a miserable experience that it was cut short — ending in February 2008 before planned dates in Sydney, Beijing, Cape Town and Buenos Aires.
The band had barely spent any time together since breaking up in 2000 and some of them — particularly Mel C — didn't want the reunion in the first place.
The band were originally put together following a 1994 advertisement in The Stage newspaper. 'R U 18-23 with the ability to sing/dance? R U streetwise, ambitious, outgoing and determined?' it asked.
The five that were eventually settled on were given aliases Ginger (Geri), Baby (Emma Bunton), Sporty (Mel C), Scary (Mel B) and Posh (Victoria Beckham), and had a period of false starts before being signed by Virgin record label.
In 1996, Wannabe — their debut single — was a global smash that went to number one in 31 countries. It was followed by another eight number one singles, as well as a semi-fictional film and numerous worldwide tours.
Together with a series of huge marketing tie-ups — with the likes of Pepsi, Cadbury's and PlayStation — they became the best-selling female group of all time.
Trouble, however, soon emerged, and the group's original split was acrimonious. Geri had left after a huge row with Mel B in 1998, the year that both Victoria and Mel B were pregnant with their first babies.
Comedian Jennifer Saunders, pictured as Edina in Absolutely Fabulous next to former 'Baby Spice' Emma Bunton and Joanna Lumley as Patsy, wrote the script for the musical Viva Forever!
Their third album, recorded after Victoria's wedding in 1999, sold only a fraction as well as their previous ones. In December 2000, they each agreed to concentrate on solo careers.
Mel C strongly resisted the reunion tour. She had suffered depression after the split and developed an eating disorder.
She agreed only when she was told that it would go ahead with or without her. Afterwards, she said she only joined so she couldn't be painted as the villain.
Melanie Brown now has own reality TV show and is a judge on the Australian X Factor
However, she was worried that she might throw away the credibility she had fought hard to gain as a solo artist. Her first solo album, Northern Star, sold an impressive four million copies.
During the tour, there were clashes between Mel C and Geri, with Mel apparently finding Geri deeply irritating. Geri was late several times to rehearsals and insisted on halting proceedings to meditate.
To complicate matters, all of them were by that point mothers, apart from Mel C (who has since had a baby daughter), and the presence of the children and their various nannies made the tour even more exhausting and complicated.
In the end, it was Geri who pulled the plug on the tour. It was alleged that she was jealous of how famous Victoria had become since the five girls had gone their separate ways.
Emma Bunton, ever the peacemaker, was upset and had wanted to continue with the tour — but all the rest of them had been happy to call it a day.
In any case, after the first few dates they didn't socialise with each other after the shows, and even stayed in separate hotels.
When it was over, they went back to their respective careers: Victoria as a fashion designer, Mel B on her reality TV show and as a judge on the Australian X Factor, and Emma as a DJ for Heart FM.
Melanie C had her solo career — and a stint in a revival of Jesus Christ Superstar in the West End.
Geri enjoyed some success as a solo artist, but now designs clothes for Next and has a brief role as a judge on the forthcoming series of The X Factor.
So why have they agreed to Viva Forever? As one source on the show says: 'All they have to do is sit back and count the money.'
Musicals of this sort are huge commercial juggernauts. We Will Rock You, the musical based on the hits of Queen and written by Ben Elton has grossed more than £150 million. Mamma Mia! has a worldwide gross of £1.2 billion.
As Simon Fuller will have told them, they can hope to make far more than the £10 million each they netted from the comeback tour by lending their songs to the show.
It is estimated they could make £3 million a year each for years to come if the show is a hit. Not bad for a pre-fabricated group, brought together via an advertisement in The Stage newspaper.
And even though the friendships were ephemeral, the music cheesy and the Girl Power philosophy not much more than a raucous slogan, the Spice Girls' money-making juggernaut still thunders on.
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