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Advanced applications of crystal engineering: semiconductors, photochromism, thiophene photoreactivity, and thermal expansion
Document Type
Date of Degree
Spring 2015
Degree Name
PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)
Degree In
First Advisor
MacGillivray, Leonard R
First Committee Member
Tivanski, Alexei V
Second Committee Member
Quinn, Daniel M
Third Committee Member
Forbes, Tori Z
Fourth Committee Member
Wohlgenannt, Markus
Crystal engineering is a rapidly developing area of research with goals aimed at designing functional molecular solids using reliable intermolecular interactions. By designing these intermolecular interactions using principles of supramolecular chemistry, favorable molecular arrangements can be achieved, which is manifested in desirable properties. We have applied crystal engineering strategies to the synthesis of unique materials for advanced applications including a metal-organic semiconductor, photochromic co-crystals, and a co-crystalline thin film for photolithography. We designed a metal-organic complex based on Ag(I) that exhibits π-π stacking interactions in the organic ligands, which is favorable for electrical conductivity in organic-based semiconductors. The nanocrystalline complex exhibits remarkable electrical conductivity and is also designed to undergo a [2+2] cycloaddition reaction, resulting in over a 70% increase in electrical conductivity. The increase in conductivity is supported by an increased contribution of Ag(I) ions to the top edge of the valence band, as well as new Ag···C(phenyl) interactions that can provide a charge transport pathway. Co-crystallization strategies were used to switch a non-photochromic compound photochromic upon incorporation into a series of co-crystals. Previously in our group, a co-crystalline thin film was applied for photolithography, and here, the crystal structure of the co-crystalline film is elucidated.
We have also applied principles of crystal engineering to the synthesis of materials that are candidates for electrical property characterization measurements. First, we utilize Ag(I) to synthesize 0D and 1D metal-organic complexes. These complexes are also designed to undergo [2+2] photocycloaddition reactions and upon reaction, an increase in dimensionality by at least one order (i.e. 0D to 1D) is achieved. In one complex, photodimerization resulted in a 3D metal-organic framework (MOF), and we successfully applied a 'green' synthetic method to the synthesis of the 3D MOF via vortex grinding. We also report the X-ray crystal structure and solid-state packing of an organic molecule involving tetrathiafulvalene, a classic organic semiconductor. The molecule is susceptible to solvent uptake/loss and exhibits π-π stacking arrangements that are not ideal for favorable electrical properties. Through co-crystallization strategies, we achieve a unique 'lock-arm' motif that results in infinite stacking in the tetrathiafulvalene core, an ideal property for semiconductivity.
This thesis will also focus on the solid-state [2+2] photodimerization reactions of styrylthiophenes, molecules that rarely undergo the reaction in either the solution or solid state. There have been very few efforts to attain regiocontrol of the products and high yielding photodimerizations of thiophenes are rare. We utilized a ditopic resorcinol template to afford the head-to-head photodimerization product, and by using a dicarboxylic acid-based co-crystal former, we were able to synthesize the head-to-tail photodimer. Both products were achieved in quantitative yield. We have also expanded our approach by employing silver templates, which have previously been successfully applied to photodimerizations of olefins substituted with six-membered rings (i.e. phenyl). We examined photoreactivity in Ag(I) coordination complexes with both α- and β-substituted thiophenes. Both head-to-head and head-to-tail products can be achieved and, in some complexes, both products are produced.
In our studies examining thiophene photoreactivity with dicarboxylic acid templates, we discovered a unique co-crystal wherein two strong supramolecular synthons contribute equally to the solid-state packing. Due to this rare observation, we performed a survey of the Cambridge Crystallographic Database for co-crystals dominated equally by the same two strong supramolecular synthons. We found that co-crystals including both of these synthons are quite rare, and our co-crystal was the first to include a monopyridine. We discuss differences in pKas between the hydrogen-bond donor and acceptor to understand situations where these interactions do not form. We also highlight optimization of crystal symmetry and favorable secondary interactions, such as weak hydrogen bonding and π-π stacking, which may lead to and support the unique synthon formation.
Lastly, we utilize co-crystallization strategies to modify the degree of dynamic molecular motion in the azo functional group, a group that is known to exhibit pedal motion in the solid state. The molecular motion is related to the thermal expansion behavior of the crystals and only upon co-crystallization with a ditopic receptor is the molecular motion capability of the azo group unlocked and 'colossal' thermal expansion properties achieved. By systematically modifying the non-azo component, we achieve thermal expansion ranging from 'colossal' to nearly zero, as well as rare negative thermal expansion.
Public Abstract
New materials with specific applications or uses in mind are constantly being designed and discovered. Some materials, when synthesized, do not exhibit properties that are desirable for their intended application. In the materials involved in my research, the lack of desirable properties can often be attributed to how the molecules interact with one another in a solid (crystal) form.
My research focuses on incorporating a second molecule into the crystal to alter the molecular interactions such that the desired property can be achieved. There are many choices in the type of secondary molecules that can be utilized, so the desired interactions in the solid must first be designed. After the new molecular interactions are designed, a second molecule is chosen and the new solid is synthesized. The new material can be tested to determine if the desired property has been achieved. In my work, the idea of molecular design has been applied to a wide range of materials, and specific properties including electrical conductivity and response to temperature or light have been achieved. Materials that exhibit these properties are applicable in electronics, lenses, and sensors, and the use of organic-based compounds has the potential to lower the cost of these devices as well as offer more environmentally-friendly synthetic routes.
publicabstract, crystal engineering, supramolecular
xxiv, 257 pages
Includes bibliographical references (pages 199-216).
Copyright 2015 Kristin Marie Hutchins
Recommended Citation
Hutchins, Kristin Marie. "Advanced applications of crystal engineering: semiconductors, photochromism, thiophene photoreactivity, and thermal expansion." PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) thesis, University of Iowa, 2015.


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As contouring is becoming the biggest trend in the beauty world at present, it can be difficult to grasp an understanding of which is the best highlight and shading product to buy. How dark do I go with the bronzer… should the highlighter be shimmery…. should I opt for a matte tan… it can be quite a complex decision when it comes to shopping around.
For the past week, I've been trialling out the Illamasqua Sculpting Powder Duo in Heliopolis & Lumos – a matte bronze shade for razor sharp cheekbones and a shimmering champagne to highlight and illuminate. The duo compact complete with a mirror costs £27.00 and seems to have a lot of strong online reviews. So the question is – how do I rate this for shaping and contouring my face?
So I have known about Illamasqua as a brand for a long long time, and recently attended a session with Alex Box from the brand, discussing make-up artistry and her own inspirations and creativity (take a read here). I have used the products when practising make-up or borrowing friends favourites, but owning an Illamsqua product is actually something I have never done before – believe it or not seeing as I am a beauty blogger! The good news is that this particular product did not disappoint, and has actually converted me into a huge Illamasqua fan due to the quality of this product, and for doing exactly what it says on the tin so to speak.
Once my foundation is applied, I set my skin with a finishing powder to absorb shine and create 'a base' for my bronzer, blusher and highlighter. This Sculpting Powder Duo actually works as all three combined for me, starting with sucking in my cheeks and sweeping over the Heliopolis shade. It isn't a dramatically dark shade, and would work best for fair skin people over those with tanned skin looking for something dramatic. It creates a subtle contouring cheek look, however the more times you sweep over with this, the more intense the colour builds up. I like wearing this as part of my everyday make-up, so I just sweep over a couple of times.
I finish off with using a fluffier powder brush and sweep the Lumos across the tops of my cheeks, forehead, nose and chin. This shade is absolutely lovely – the shimmer isn't too obvious (nothing worse than sparkly bits glittering under every light) yet it creates a stunning glow and adds luminosity to my face. The two shades combine together to create a subtle shading and highlighting effect, blending into my foundation seamlessly.
Top tip: The tan shade actually doubles up as a soft neutral brown eyeshadow too! I am wearing this on the photos below, which really brings out the grey-blue colour of my eyes.
A fantastic product, and one I recommend if you have never used contouring palettes before and want to experiment with one that is easy to build up and of a premium quality.

subset: commoncrawl


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11-year-old sixth grader and artist, Charles Gitnick, from Los Angeles is the talk of the town in the art world, boasting title features at the Washington Post, Yahoo! News, Huffington Post, and the LA times. The young prodigy's current work involves spray painted guns ranging in size and color, splattered with "Jackson Pollock-esk" paint drips, intended to bring awareness to America's epidemic of shootings and violence. He calls his art work "3-D gun art" and claims that he was seven when he first started creating abstract artwork. He also asserts was inspired to be an artist by the work of Andy Warhol, Lenonardo Da Vinci, and Basquiat.
11 Year old Charles Gitnick poses with his "3-D Gun-Art".
(AP Photo/J Pat Carter) Photo Taken from: Yahoo News
"Rainbow Drip"
He writes in his website bio: "My feelings about guns are that they are scary and dangerous. When I make one of my pieces, I create a background and then I camouflage the gun to make it almost invisible. The gun is still there but it's hard to see it or you don't see it for what it really is. Hopefully my art will get people talking about guns, gun safety and gun violence. I wish guns were only in an art gallery."
"Dozen Guns"
In a recent interview conducted with LA times, Gitnick talks about how he first sold his art in Venice Beach. The LA times asks:
LA Times: Last December's Sandy Hook school shooting in Connecticut affected you – and your art – deeply. Can you elaborate on that?
Gitnick: I stopped making art for 18 days because of it because I was afraid people would think I was promoting guns and not like my art. My dad talked to me about it and told me when those bad things happen it's not a time for artists to back down; that's when everyone is talking about it, it's the best time to get the message out. So I started making art again.
We rented a house in Venice a few years ago and we were walking on the boardwalk and I sold some gun art on the boardwalk — we got a permit. That was the first time I sold to the public. This summer we sold every weekend in July. We made $1,100 in one day, the most I've ever made in a day. I'm saving for a car.
Read more about Charles Ginick's interview with the LA Times here and check out his website!!
"Flower Power"
Blogged by:
Gabrielle Wooden
Gabrielle lives in So Cal. She's black.


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Boots!! I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am about being able to wear my boots again. They make me feel pulled together even when I'm just wearing jeans and a tank. These ones from Stuart Weitzman work with basically everything and have a thin enough calf that I can't wear them on their own. Three cheers for no slouching!
Tank: Equipment, Jeans: J Brand, Boots: Stuart Weitzman, Bag: Tommy Hilfiger, Necklace: Target, Ring: Forever 21


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Hazelnut Pesto
Alright, I know that I've posted a pesto recipe before. But this one is different because I used hazelnuts! Plus I fiddled with the ratios on this one to get a more standardized version. If you've made a pesto before, you understand how easy making this can be. But you also understand how important it is to use high quality ingredients. If anything you use is of a lesser quality, you will definitely notice it.
Now using hazelnuts in this recipe can be slightly problematic, since they do have those pesky husks on them (I am not sure that terminology is right). It does take some effort to get those things off, but I think it's worth it. This recipe makes a big batch. Here's what you'll need:
- 3/4 c. hazelnuts
- 5 c. fresh basil leaves, packed tight
- 5-6 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 c. olive oil
- juice and zest of 1/2 a lemon
- 1 c. grated Parmesan
- salt and pepper, to taste
1. Roast the hazelnuts in either a preheated 350 degree F oven or in a pan over medium heat. Roast them until they become fragrant and slightly browned. Transfer them to a plate and cover with a light towel and allow them to cool. While they are covered they can steam which helps release them from the husks. Now rub the nuts with the towel to clean off husks and set aside.
2. In a food processor, place hazelnuts and pulse to chop for a few seconds. Add the basil and pulse again. Do the same when you add the garlic.
3. With the food processor running. drizzle in the olive oil to combine. Add the lemon and pulse for a few seconds. Transfer to a serving bowl or storage container. Stir in the Parmesan. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Notes — I made a batch of Garlic Confit and added a little bit of the infused oil into the pesto. I didn't put too much because I just wanted a hint of the flavor. Maybe I used a couple of tablespoons. . . I like putting lemon in my pestos which most people don't. Maybe it makes it too much like a gremolata for folks. I just like the brightness it adds, plus it helps keep everything green. . . Roasting hazelnuts is made more idiot-proof because of their husks. The husks help protect the nuts from burning so even if you get a little charring on the husk, the nut may actually be just fine.
Grilled Corn with Radish Butter
Corn, a grill, and compound butter. How can that combination be wrong? I love grilling corn and I'm on the side of the spectrum that grills the corn without the husks on. In my opinion, if you grill with the husks on you're really not grilling the corn but steaming it. I, for one, like a nice, smoky char. And I like nice, simple, summer recipes. You can't get much simpler than this — corn, butter, radishes. That's essentially all you need. I just add some herbs for some additional flavor (just some basil and parsley, but use whatever you want).
I would serve this as a side, but it is easy to get full from this because you can get carried away. Here's what you need:
- 1 stick of butter, softened
- 1 -2 radishes, chopped
- chopped herbs, to taste
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 – 8 ears of corn, husks removed
- vegetable oil
1. Prepare your grill (I use charcoal). Meanwhile, combine the butter, radishes, herbs, salt, & pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
2. Brush the corn with the oil and place on the grill over direct heat. Grill until nicely browned, about 8 – 10 minutes. Turn the ears as needed to cook evenly. Transfer to a serving plate.
3. After the corn is removed from the grill, brush with the radish butter. Sprinkle on a little salt & pepper if you like and serve.
Notes — You can bush the radish butter on the corn while it's on the grill, but I'd wait until the last couple of minutes because the radishes could burn. . . You can keep the husks on. Peel them back and tie them to make a handle. Just keep the husks off the heat — hang them over the edge of the grill. . . Make some extra radish butter — it's great on a nice toasty baguette!
Cranberry Peanut Granola
So I'm planning on doing some hiking soon and I was thinking to myself, "Waterlily, what would be something tasty that you can take on your expeditions?" And that's when granola popped into my head. It's something that's good to eat when you're on the go, plus you can eat it on its own or on top of stuff like yogurt, ice cream, cobblers, and the like.
I use a simple formula here: 4 cups of stuff + 1/4 cup of vegetable oil + 1/4 cup of honey. That's just for the mixture that goes into the oven. You can add as much fruit as you like afterwards, like raisins (yuk!), or dried hibiscus flowers, or dried apricots, etc. Just don't bake the fruit in the oven because it will burn. This recipe is very simple, and I love it when things are simple! Here's what you need:
- 2 c. old-fashioned oatmeal
- 1 c. peanuts
- 1 c. shredded coconut (I used the unsweetened big shavings)
- 1/4 c. vegetable oil
- 1/4 c. honey
- pinch of salt
- 1 c. dried cranberries
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with a Silpat or foil. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, toss the oatmeal, peanuts, coconut, oil, honey, and salt to combine. Pour onto the pan into a single layer and bake in the oven.
3. Bake for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally while in the oven, until the granola is golden.
4. When done, scrape the pan to loosen the granola and allow to cool in the pan. After it has cooled, mix in the cranberries and store in an air-tight container at room temperature. Should last a month, but I have no clue — a batch usually lasts me a couple of days before it gets eaten up.
Notes — You can mix things up by changing the ingredients. Try different nuts, different fruits, add spices. The possibilities are endless. . . If you are still getting some moisture left over from the oil and honey, try baking at 325 degrees F for about 30 minutes
Kale and Herb Pesto
I had a whole lot of kale to use I was thinking how could I make this without having to make kale chips. When I made this, it was unseasonably hot here in SE Michigan (and 85 degrees F is very hot for that time of year — I think it was in March) and I didn't want to turn my oven on unless I really really had to. So I saw the title of a post for a Killer Kale Pesto and wanted to give my take a shot. I didn't want to go to the grocery so I wanted to use what I had already. Lucky for me I had everything I needed. And I was surprised at some of the similarities between what was in the recipe and what I had in my freezer.
Some of you may already know, making things like pesto are very organic and free form for me. I really don't have specifics here since I go by feel and what the pesto looks like. And with this one, I really like the tarragon in here. It adds a nice subtle twist. And the toasted pecans give a nice butteriness. Here's what you need:
- 1/2 c. toasted pepitas
- 1 c. toasted pecans
- 1 bunch kale
- 1/2 bunch parsley
- 4-5 sprigs tarragon
- juice of 1 lemon
- 2-3 cloves garlic, chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 c. olive oil
- 1/4 c. grated parmesan
1. Place the nuts in the food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Cut the stems from the kale and cut the spine out of the leaves. Coarsely chop and place in the food processor. Do the same for the parsley. Strip the leaves from the tarragon and place in the food processor as well.
2. Add the salt, pepper, garlic, lemon juice, and the olive oil. Process until smooth. Fold in the parmesan. Can last about a week in the refrigerator. You can freeze them in an ice cube tray to have quick portions of pesto that you can just add to warm pastas and such.
3. Don't forget to visit me on Facebook!
Cranberry Compote
Here's my third post from my "holiday menu". To be honest, I think "cranberry compote" is just a fancy term for a cranberry sauce. But again, alliteration is always a nice thing! In case you're wondering, a compote is basically fruit stewed in some kind of syrup. It can serve as a topping for ice cream or just served on its own. I did use some of this to make a cheesecake for my Winter Feast. Of course, that's going to be the next post. Exciting stuff!
- 1 1/2 c. water
- 1 1/2 c. sugar
- 2 – 3 cinnamon sticks, depending on strength
- 2 whole star anise
- 6 green cardamom pods
- 1 orange, juice and zest
- 4 c. cranberries, divided
- 1/2 c. cognac
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a gentle boil until the sugar has dissolved. Reduce by about 1/4.
2. Add the orange juice and cook for 1 minute. Add the cinnamon, anise, cardamom, and 3 c. of the cranberries. Bring to a boil. Once you start to hear some of the cranberries pop, reduce the heat and allow to stew for about 10 – 15 minutes.
3. After the mixture has thickened, add the remaining cranberries. Once the cranberries have started to pop, reduce heat to low and cook for another 3 – 5 minutes.
4. Remove from the heat and stir in the cognac. Let sit for about 30 minutes. Can be served warm or at room temperature.
Notes — theoretically, this should last for at least a week, but it usually gets used up quickly in my house. . . you could try brown sugar which might be a nice change. . . I have seen some recipes that use maple syrup. . . another thing to try would be to add some ginger. . . I did make a double batch and just reused the whole spices. It worked out fine. You could cut down the amount of spices if it might be too much for you. . . Adding cognac is optional, but I think it helps round everything out. But of course, I don't need an excuse to booze something up!
Smoked Fish Dip #1
I know I did this a little bit backward, but here is my Smoked Fish Dip #1. Sure, I posted to #2 recipe first, but like I said before, that one isn't as strong with the "tang". This one is my favorite of the two just because the flavors are bigger — the ratio of smoked fish:cream cheese is higher, there's some tang from the sour cream, lemon juice, and capers; and there's some heat from the horseradish. The instructions are pretty much the same as the other recipe.
Here's what you need:
- 6 oz. smoked fish
- 8 oz. cream cheese
- 1/2 c. sour cream
- 1 T. lemon juice
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 t. horseradish
- 1 T. capers
- fresh dill, to taste
Coarsely chop the fish; if you like a smoother dip, chop the fish into smaller bits. In a bowl, beat the cheese until nice and creamy. Mix in the sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the horseradish, capers, dill and mix well. Fold in the fish. You can let this sit for an hour or so if you like, but it is ready to serve.
Smoked Fish Dip #2
Here is one use of all that smoke fish I got in the UP (Upper Peninsula of Michigan, if you haven't been following my most recent posts). Now this is called "Smoked Fish Dip #2" because it is my second favorite. But it's the one that we made and it's still very good. This recipe is a lot milder than my #1, which may appeal to more folks, especially if you don't eat a lot of smoked fish. The flavor can be a little intense, but I love that smokey goodness. And what's nice is that this is quick and easy to make, although you may want to let the dip sit for a little bit so that the flavors can marry a little bit.
Here's what you need:
- 8 oz. smoked fish (this recipe used whitefish, but use what you like)
- 16 oz. cream cheese, softened
- salt and pepper, to taste
- a couple of dashes of Worcestershire sauce
- a couple of dashes of hot sauce, to taste
- 2 T. chopped chives
Coarsely chop the fish; if you like a smoother dip, chop the fish into smaller bits. In a bowl, beat the cheese until nice and creamy. Add the fish, salt, pepper, hot sauce, Worcestershire and mix well. Fold in the chives. You can let this sit for an hour if you like, but it is ready to serve!


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TPB Financial advisers forum report – 10 November 2015
On Tuesday 10 November 2015, Ian Taylor (Chair) and Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) colleagues held a TPB financial adviser forum in Sydney with representatives from associations that have an interest in financial planning.
The key points discussed at the forum are summarised below. This brief report is intended only to provide an overview of the issues that were discussed and does not represent the final views of the TPB, nor is it intended as minutes of the forum.
Update from the TPB
The following was noted during the overview provided:
- As at the end of October 2015, there were 16,937 registered tax (financial) advisers - comprising 846 Australian financial service (AFS) licensees and 16,091 authorised representatives.
- The TPB is continuing to receive a small but steady number of applications from AFS licensees and authorised representatives. It was noted that there may be a further spike before the end of December 2015 (when the notification period ends). Overall, the notification process has worked well.
- While notification is a largely automated process, it was noted that the TPB encourages those large AFS licensees that are seeking to register more than 20 authorised representatives to notify as soon as possible, so as to facilitate a streamlined process and enable the TPB to answer any relevant queries before the Christmas shutdown period from midday on 24 December 2015. It was also noted that, from 1 January 2016, unregistered entities that continue to provide tax (financial) advice services for a fee or other reward may be liable for civil penalties, regardless of whether they use a disclaimer.
- The TPB is continuing to progress preparations to ensure operational readiness for the transitional and standard registration phases commencing from 1 January 2016, including testing forms and correspondence, and expansion of communications activities. Information will also soon be published on the TPB website in relation to what is included within the application form (including noting what is needed for the purpose of submitting an application) to assist those entities seeking to register from
1 January 2016.
- It was also highlighted that when an entity seeks registration under the standard or transitional option, their registration will not automatically be granted and the entity will need to wait until the TPB has made a decision and processed the application (as distinct to the largely automated notification period).
Communication activities
- The forum noted the listing of recently issued TPB information products and observed that a range of material continues to be developed, including the:
- tailored editions of eNews for tax (financial) advisers in August and October 2015
- regularly updated Board approved Australian taxation law and commercial law course lists for tax (financial) advisers
- TPB 2014-15 Annual report
- latest online edition (No. 4) of the Summary of penalties, sanctions and terminations, which includes some of the most recent compliance outcomes and decisions by the TPB's Conduct Committee, and cases that have been heard by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
- Website improvement: The TPB is progressing work on reviewing and improving website content for the purpose of enhancing the user experience and reducing the time taken for processes, with usability testing informing this work. This work will continue into 2016, wherein there will be a focus on website structure (providing user-segmented information) and improved search and navigation functionality.
- Webinars and Outreach: The TPB is continuing to present webinars (over 300 attendees across three sessions as at the time of this forum) and also recently provided face-to-face information sessions (around 270 tax (financial) advisers had attended across four sessions – comprising of two sessions in Sydney on 7 October, and two sessions in Melbourne on 19 October), covering what AFS licensees and authorised representatives need to consider now to be ready to renew their registration. These events have been well received, with a good level of attendance and interaction.
It was noted that additional webinars for tax (financial) advisers are being delivered on 23 November and 14 December, with further details regarding webinar scheduling to be made available on the TPB's website. It was also reiterated that the TPB would welcome opportunities to participate in association conferences and speaking events on relevant topics.
Current consultation re standards and potential TASA implications
- It was observed that the Government's 20 October 2015 response to the Financial System Inquiry included the acceptance of a number of key recommendations made by the Parliamentary Joint Committee on corporations and financial services, with the Government intending to introduce legislation to raise the professional standards of financial advisers by mid-2016.
- It was noted that the recommendations may have an impact in relation to the Tax Agent Services Act 2009 (TASA) and the TPB is currently engaged in relevant consultations, with the message being reinforced that the TPB will need to work closely with the Government and Treasury to address any matters.
Annual declarations for registered tax and BAS agents:
- It was highlighted that the first release of the annual declaration for registered tax and BAS agents, to demonstrate that they are meeting their obligations as a registered agent, will commence on 17 November (for those who have an anniversary renewal date on 1 January).
- It was noted that the annual declaration is a simple way for all registered tax and BAS agents to show that they meet ongoing registration requirements, including:
- having Professional indemnity (PI) insurance cover (with pre-filled details where the agent has previously provided this information to the TPB)
- undertaking continuing professional education (individuals only)
- any changes in practice structure and/or personal details (including information voluntarily provided by the registered agents concerning recognised association affiliation)
- satisfying fitness and propriety requirements
- meeting personal tax obligations.
- It was observed that while the annual declaration process is not being applied to tax (financial) advisers at present, it will eventually be in place for tax (financial) advisers when the transitional arrangements are finalised.
Policy matters
Code of Professional Conduct item 6 – Confidentiality of client information
- The forum noted the draft Exposure Draft (ED) for the purpose of providing guidance to tax (financial) advisers in relation to confidentiality obligations under subsection 30-10(6) of the TASA (Code Item 6), which is one of the obligations under the TASA's Code of Professional Conduct (Code). It was observed that the document had been updated pursuant to consideration of feedback received at the previous financial adviser forum.
- The forum supported release of an ED for a 45-day comment period, noting that any further comments can be provided during the public submission period and that there will be referral back to the forum for further guidance in the event that any contentious issues are raised during this public submission period.
Cloud computing and the Code of Professional Conduct
- The forum noted the draft ED providing brief guidance to tax practitioners in relation to how interaction with Cloud influences meeting the Code obligations.
- It was observed that the document is specifically targeted to tax and BAS agents in the first instance and had been updated pursuant to consideration of feedback received at, and subsequent to, the previous TPB Consultative forum and Financial adviser forum meetings.
- The forum noted that the ED is being released for a 45-day comment period and that any further comments can be provided during the public submission period. It was confirmed that there will be referral back to the TPB Consultative forum and Financial adviser forum meetings for further guidance as appropriate, in the event that any contentious issues are raised during this public submission period.
- It was also noted that the TPB's forward work program includes the development of other guidance in relation to software and that the TPB is in ongoing discussions with software providers to address other issues separately (outside of the information sheet), for the purpose of assisting providers and their clients to comply with relevant requirements under the TASA.
On-hire firms
- The forum briefly noted that the TPB considered comments and submissions received on the original ED (on labour hire firms) and that it was reissued for a second exposure draft period on 20 October. It was observed that the ED was prepared for the purpose of assisting on-hire firms involved in the provision of tax related services to understand the operation of the tax agent services regime and whether or not they need to register with the TPB. It was also observed that submissions on the ED close on 4 December.
Other policy work in progress
It was noted that pre-exposure draft material is expected to be provided to future meetings of the
forum, for the purpose of seeking further guidance and feedback.
- It was noted that the TPB will continue to develop guidance on the Code for tax (financial) advisers, having due regard to previous feedback received from the forum (including in relation to priorities), with work currently progressing on the following:
- obligations in relation to reasonable care under subsections 30-10(9) and 30-10(10) of the TASA (Code items 9 and 10)
- obligations in relation to managing conflicts of interest under subsection 30-10(5) of the TASA (Code item 5)
- review of the TPB's foundation explanatory papers on the Code, and on Fitness and propriety.
- It was also observed that while the TPB is currently prioritising work in relation to a BAS services legislative instrument, work will also progress to allow certain services to be included in the definition of a tax (financial) advice service in relation to interaction with the ATO. It was noted that, as part of the consultation process, the TPB will issue an ED discussion paper to the forum in due course.
Next meeting
The Chair thanked the forum members for their attendance and consultative approach during the current Board's term, and noted that he would commend to the incoming Board the continuance of the Financial Advisers forum and scheduling of meeting dates for the 2016 calendar year early in the new Board's term.
Last modified: 1 December 2015


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This strawberries and cream protein smoothie is a perfect pre-bed recovery smoothie to give a slow and steady release of protein. Made with just four every day ingredients, this is a wholesome, nutritious drink that tastes good and won't break the bank either.
When it comes to bumping up protein intake, many people automatically assume they have to resort to expensive protein shakes. Not so! There are plenty of naturally sourced foods that are great sources of protein, more satisfying, much tastier and much more affordable than supplements.
Cottage cheese has been frequently appearing in my kitchen as of late. Cottage cheese is a great quality source of casein, but there's only so much cottage cheese you can eat without getting a bit sick of it (in my experience at least).
Casein is a slow-releasing protein that provides your muscles with the essential proteins they need to grow and repair while you sleep. A bit of experimentation in the kitchen led me to create this nutritious, creamy strawberry protein smoothie. Thanks to the frozen berries it's so thick that you pretty much need a spoon to drink it.
This smoothie only contains small amounts of natural carbohydrates to prevent it being stored as fat overnight, making it the perfect bedtime recovery snack.
- 150g 0% fat cottage cheese (1/2 a tub)
- 125ml skim milk (1/2 a cup)
- ½ tsp vanilla essence
- 6 frozen strawberries
- Combine the cottage cheese, milk and vanilla essence in a blender and blitz until smooth.
- Add the frozen strawberries and blend well.
- Drink immediately for a thickshake consistency.
I've topped mine with some red berry powder from Lyo Foods for an extra micronutrient and antioxidant boost.
If you prefer, 0% fat Greek yoghurt also works well in this recipe with very similar nutritional profile.


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Retiring Soon
Evander Side Table
Drawing inspiration from the lining of a coat jacket, this stylish side table features gold leaf lined geometric cutouts contrasting with a smoked mushroom gray acacia veneer. Complete with an adjustable shelf and clear glass top.
Dimensions: 20 W X 25 H X 20 D (in)
Weight: 44
Ship Via: Small Parcel
UPC Number: 792977778968
Availability (East Coast): AVAIL: JUN 08, 2020
Adding to cart...
Please note: If you will be placing an order for 15 or more pieces of an item, please call our customer service group or your sales rep to confirm availability.


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Maybe I'm just resistant to change. But I don't care for the new drag-&-zoom feature in Photoshop CS5. I believe Nature intended for you to drag a zoom marquee to enlarge an area of the photo, and it's an old habit. In CS5, the same drag zooms the image enormously, as if it's pulling it toward you, without centering on the area you've intended to capture. I looked in Preferences and the User Guide for a way to disable it, to no avail. So I settled for gingerly clicking and cursing under my breath.
I mentioned this to a group of SAS folks I was training in CS5 this week, and one of the guys sent me an email afterward, calling my attention to the "Scrubby Zoom" option in the Options bar. Doh! Now, of course, it's obvious. If I'd known it was called "Scrubby Zoom" instead of "Pain-in-the-Butt Zoom," I could've looked it up. Now I know, and I'm passing it on to those of you who like the Old Ways better.
*If you live in the South, no translation is necessary. But, for the rest of the world, the subject means: "Had it been a snake, lurking so close, in the same obvious location as the Scrubby Zoom option, it would have bitten you."


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We created an intuitive, flexible application process that puts you in control by allowing you to start anytime, save your work, and come back later to submit your application.
Completed applications will be considered by the admissions cycle deadlines. Admissions decisions are made four to six weeks after each monthly admissions deadline.
Our team will provide personalized assistance to ensure that the Wisconsin Executive MBA is a good fit for you. We will support you throughout the admissions process by answering questions, and by reviewing your résumé and other qualifications before you apply. We encourage you to meet with an admissions professional for an informal review of your credentials.
Learn about the admissions process »
Complete the online application form to provide details on your intended area of study, prior education, and work history.
The required short essay provides an opportunity for you to share details about your career goals and leadership experience. Please address the questions in full.
Why have you chosen to apply to this specific program – the Executive MBA Program? How will earning your MBA align with your career goals and influence your development as a leader?
Click here for a sample résumé
Submit a résumé outlining your academic achievements and professional experience. To assist in the review process, please indicate the type of firm and scope of operations for each organization for which you were employed. Your résumé may include personal achievements, community involvement, global experiences, and other areas of interest. Upload your résumé when you submit the application.
One professional recommendation is required to apply, and you may submit two. You will enter your recommenders' names and email addresses into your application. Each recommender will then receive questions from the admissions committee.
The recommendation forms are submitted separately from your application. You should not wait for your recommender to submit his or her recommendation before submitting your application; however, your application will not be reviewed without the recommendation forms.
An appropriate member of your organization must demonstrate willingness to authorize your participation in the program by submitting the online authorization form. Authorization implies that:
A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required. The target undergraduate grade point average is 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale). Candidates with additional degrees should include details regarding their other advanced degrees.
You must submit official transcripts/academic records. Records must have a seal and signature in ink from the institution's authorized official, such as the registrar or recorder of records. For degrees from international institutions, records must be in the original language of the institution attended, and accompanied by official English translations. Have transcripts sent directly to the Executive MBA Program Office from your schools. You may submit unofficial copies of your transcripts which will be used by the admissions committee for review when you submit your application; however, you must submit original hard copies sent directly from your schools at or before your admissions interview, which is by invitation only.
For non-native English speakers, a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of at least 600 (paper-based test) or 106 (computer-based test) is required. International applicants with undergraduate degrees from U.S. universities may contact an Executive MBA Program admissions representative to request a waiver of the TOEFL.
The test must be taken within five years of your intended start term. Please direct the testing service to forward your test results to the University of Wisconsin–Madison (institution code: 79K-2S-72).
Wisconsin Executive MBA applicants must have either a H1-B visa or Permanent Resident status. No student visas are issued to Executive MBA students. Submit a copy of the H1-B visa or Permanent Resident documentation.
A target minimum of eight years of full-time professional work experience is required, with a target of five years of leadership experience. The program is designed for students who will hold a full-time professional position throughout the program.
Admissions interviews are by invitation only, with invitations extended after applications have been reviewed. Interviews with one or more members of the admissions committee take place on campus; in rare cases, an interview may be conducted by videoconference.
When you submit your online application, you will be asked to pay the application fee.
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We look forward to
hearing from you!
What are the benefits
of Vehicle Leasing to
my business?
I started my career in the motor trade back in 1991, joining Ringways Ford Leeds Dealership in their Fleet Department. Gaining promotion to Group Fleet Key Account Manager, I personally managed the group's Key Fleet Customer requirements.
2001 saw a move to Polar Motor Company (now TrustFord). In this new role as a Corporate Sales Executive I was tasked with growing the Business Centre at Polar Ford in Barnsley. 2004 saw the company become Ford Retail Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ford Motor Company.
I was awarded Group Fleet Sales Executive of the Year in 2007. 2008 saw my promotion to Business Centre Manager leading an experienced team, with a strong focus on customer service excellence. Another accolade came in 2011 when I was awarded Business to Business Manager of the Year for the Group.
The department experienced year on year growth to achieve a volume of 4,000 vehicles supplied in 2011 with a turnover of approx. £60M. Our client base consisted of varied business sectors such as Retail, Manufacturing, Construction, Rail, Utility, Vehicle Rental, Leasing and Public Sector.
I made the very difficult decision to leave Ford Retail Group in 2013 in order to follow my desire to start and run my own business. trueFleet® was therefore established with the aim of assisting the Small and Medium sized local businesses by sharing my knowledge, connections, services and best practice gained from many years of experience in the fleet industry.
"We have dealt with Paul O'Leary for many years, during which time he has handled our small fleet of company cars with enthusiasm and first class service. Handling a small fleet means occasional contact and it can be difficult to generate interest in you as a customer.
Paul has always made us feel wanted and valued and has built an understanding of our needs. I would not hesitate in recommending him and look forward to doing further business with him in the future."
Malcolm Vaughton | Managing Director | Lilleheden Ltd, Barnsley
"I used trueFleet to sort out my lease car after briefly meeting Paul at a networking event and then being referred to him by another business contact. Paul was extremely helpful right from the start and was patient, not only with all my questions (I've never leased a car before so had no idea of the process) but also when my phone kept cutting him off!
Paul made the process easy and painless and it really didn't take up much of my time at all. I would definitely recommend using trueFleet if you are looking at leasing a vehicle as he seems to know his stuff and his customer service is great and that makes a huge difference to any purchase."
Sarah Gathercole | Managing Director | The Office Fixer Ltd, Huddersfield
"I have known Paul O'Leary for some years now during his previous role, which gave trueFleet the opportunity to get through the door. From this point on, his professional approach and timely responses to all my questions was excellent.
I was happy to select trueFleet to supply my new car. Interaction and communication was excellent at every point from quotation, ordering, updates, delivery and follow up have all been consistantly professional. I would not hesitate in recommending trueFleet to any of my contacts."
Paul Clark | Managing Director | Clarks Vehicle Conversions Ltd, Doncaster
Please click to follow the web link below to see our most recent client reviews over on our Google Business Page.
trueFleet® Google Reviews (click here)


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Growing up Gay in South Chicago
"Its not where you live; its how you live," Terrence Chappell's mother, Marilyn, explains it well in this nicely done WBEZ piece. Chappell is a nightlife and society columnist for ChicagoPride.com who lives in Auburn Gresham. Take a look at his life in photos as WBEZ explores growing up gay from a south side perspective:
View the full story from WBEZ here.
View the full Auburn Gresham series here.
*The Photo Roman style of digital storytelling is a great way to express your own story by using still images! It gives the viewer a chance to reflect on your images while listening to the words or sound. Share your own story in this style. You just need pictures and a story to tell! Submit a link or comment if you'd like to share your own photo roman story here.


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Saturday, November 08, 2014
Rehearsal Rules
"I never trust rules that tell me never to do something." This came blurting out of my mouth during a rehearsal today, and I thought I'd share the sweet irony.
Posted by Elaine Fine at 1:15 PM
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The Spalding Education program is a complete language arts curriculum that will help all students grow in their understanding of reading, spelling, and writing. We believe that this curriculum will empower our students with not only an understanding of the language arts, but a lifelong appreciation as well.
What is the Spalding Method?
Also known as the The Writing Road to Reading, The Spalding Education Program is targeted for kindergarten to grade 6, to be a complete and comprehensive look at language arts. Its methodology consists of phonemic awareness in spelling, which separates words into individual sounds so that children get a better understanding of the language. Educational experts have shown that this type of learning improves reading comprehension substantially, as well as spelling. The program also uses other techniques, such as frequent spelling drills to ingrain the concepts of spelling and reading into children.
When teachers are using the method, they use explicit instructions, which assures that each portion of a given lesson is understood and demonstrated fully, meaning each child will understand the process before moving forward. The teachers also instruct using an interactive dialogue, allowing the kids to interact with the lesson, which helps them retain the lessons.
Finally, new words are taught in two ways: for spelling and for reading. The website explains this as
"When they read one-syllable dictated words for spelling, they say each sound to train the brain to process sounds sequentially for writing and spelling. When they read multi-syllable words, they say each syllable."
"Next they read the words for 'reading.' They read each word in normal speech as they will when reading in a book."
This method allows students to fully comprehend each word they learn.
Why Spalding?
We believe the Spalding method will give our students the best opportunity to succeed. Literacy is the gateway to all forms of education. A child cannot begin to grasp any other educational concept without being able to read.
According to a four year long study by Arizona State University, children who used The Writing Road to Reading program scored significantly higher on reading comprehension tests than students who used other learning methods. The findings suggested that this program is an effective method for enhancing reading performance in children.
Our students work very hard to be the best that they can be. Every day, week in and week out, our students put in a massive effort to achieve and surpass the goals we have set for them. We feel it is crucial that we provide them with the tools to learn everything they can, at a level we know they can achieve. We strongly feel that the Spalding Method will give them the greatest chance at being lifelong learners that take their education as seriously as we do.


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The city publishes a list of all the vacant and blighted properties for the first half of fiscal year 2013 on their website. I put together this map using the list of properties and Google Fusion Tables, a free, experimental tool. You can click each property for more information. It's not the prettiest map, but here's what the symbols mean:
Big red icons: blighted and unregistered
Big yellow icons: vacant and unregistered
Big purple: in blight, being appealed
Big blue: vacant, being appealed
Small red: registered as blighted
Small yellow: registered as vacant
Small green: exempt from being classified vacant
Small blue: exempt from being classified vacant
Small pink: status pending, which means it was vacant last year but hasn't been determined for this fiscal year
What does this all mean? Basically, if you own a vacant property, you are supposed to register it with the city. If you don't, you face a $2,000 fine. The difference between vacant and blighted is that blighted properties are considered unsafe or unsanitary. Vacant properties are taxed at $5 per $100 of assessed value while blighted properties are taxed at $10 per $100. And I just heard from DCRA that only vacant properties can be exempt, not blighted properties.
So, what can you do with this map? First, you can see if there are buildings missing that you think should be on there. If that's the case, you can report them by calling 311 or emailing email@example.com.
You can also see if a building is exempt -- for example, maybe they claim to be under construction in order to avoid the fine, but actually there is no working going on.
So, get to sleuthing! Let's bust these vacant properties.


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Christmas is coming and our city is ready, hope you can enjoy it with us.
You make a very special gift , a discount for you to come to our city!
Discount code: ChristmasXXX
by Manchester City Council 2014
Reserve by calling us at +34 900 123 456
or write to firstname.lastname@example.com
mentioning the code


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Post Reading Questions for Bauerlein (2001) here
Tagged: Course Readings
This topic contains 10 replies, has 11 voices, and was last updated by Shengsheng Bao 5 years, 9 months ago.
August 30, 2014 at 7:26 pm #745
Adam Ingram-GobleKeymaster
Please post reading questions for Bauerlein (2001) in this topic.
August 30, 2014 at 8:18 pm #748
Unlike many other writers on related topics, Bauerlein at least acknowledges the influence of television viewing. The New York Daily News reports that Americans age 18 to 24 watch television an average of 22 hours, 27 minutes per week, according to the March 2014 "Cross-Platform Report" by the Nielsen media ratings company. That's 3.2 hours per day, which is actually less than the 5 hours per day average for Americans overall. Is the social "disconnect" of Millennials really a new phenomenon, or merely the next step in a progression of social disconnection which started with the Baby Boomers – the first television generation?
September 1, 2014 at 2:46 pm #782
Baurelein spends a good part of his article talking about how stressed out students are nowadays and have no free time compared to a few years prior. He says students only worry about success and that they are losing pieces of themselves to all of their studies. Has education changed at all since he wrote this article and do you think it has gotten better or worse?
September 1, 2014 at 11:46 pm #786
Baurelein mentions that teens and young adults are not taking advantage of the extraordinary chances to gain knowledge from the internet. Is this because we are "lazy" or is it how we view education in American culture where education separated recreation?
September 2, 2014 at 1:06 pm #789
Baulein's writing, rubbed me the wrong way as someone who worked with higher educational students. When he talks about watching tv, it seems like he's discounting that people do things while watching tv and the reasons why people watch tv (in addition to what they are watching). What are the methods used in the studies he is citing?
I think Baulein isn't looking at the big picture and the trend of civilizations and their changes. Did this book also start the trend of Millennial bashing that has been popular now?
September 2, 2014 at 2:06 pm #791
Janelle WilkeParticipant
I think I got lost momentarily in this reading and would be interested in a little clarity… That is, I'm trying to find the transition (that is, the connection) between Bauerlein's observation of students who invest too much time studying and students who spend most of their free time watching television (or essentially avoiding studying). Are these views both applicable to the younger generations? Is he attempting to create contrast? Both views seem to be negative; and I suppose he is trying to give a glimpse at a happy-medium…
September 2, 2014 at 2:25 pm #792
Kyle MyersParticipant
Bauerlein's writing perfectly demonstrated what Prensky warned readers about. While reading the excerpt, I envisioned Bauerlein as bitter old man who refused to accept the technological advancements of society. Although I believe he makes several thought provoking statements, I was under the impression that he himself had an unusually thick "digital immigrant accent." Is Bauerlein simply among an older generation that stubbornly rejects societal change?
September 2, 2014 at 3:39 pm #794
Jacob RobsonParticipant
Bauerlein, in this excerpt, seems to resemble the "old fogies" described in his book. He argues that as we are in the information age, kids of this era should strive to achieve for more as they have more information than ever before at their fingertips. Are Bauerlein's concerns about,paradoxically, students who strive too hard and students who strive too little justified? Or are these just the echoes of a previous generation?
September 2, 2014 at 3:44 pm #795
Sam RobisonParticipant
This writing reminds me of an old person rambling about how kids don't read as much as they should. Is there any validity to this writing? Is there any actual harm that come for too much time playing video games or using the internet?
September 2, 2014 at 4:25 pm #797
Sunny LiuParticipant
The students are doing a lot but are they learning? It says they are taking a lot of tough classes and is looking out for their SAT scores but then it goes to say that they do not spend a lot of time on their homework. Could it be just that our curriculum is not fit for the students? Maybe it is not personalized and diverse enough? Also, not all modern day media are bad it just depends on the case by case. Certain shows and games are very deep and filled with content that you need to think about, while some are just totally brainless. We need to go look below the surface. Maybe we should consider develop more specialized courses and more relatable content?
September 2, 2014 at 8:57 pm #803
Shengsheng BaoParticipant
Bauerlein has his worries about how technologies affect students' life. This is true that we are pushed to face mass of information nowadays rather than 10 years ago. some time we do not realize we are learning while we are facebooking or twittering. after read this article, I think we filter the information based on what we are interested in, and then, we absorb the useful information from tons of resources which we can approach.
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Some people in your life might sometimes be making you feel uncomfortable, or may be bugging you. This is easy enough to cope with, given some simple steps.
1.Beware the glamor effect.
Sometimes it is easy to fall for the role, position or the status that a person represents, rather than the actual person and their true character. This confusion of identity can be hard to untangle if you're struck by the glamor of what they "do", but if you don't try to separate the person from the position, then you might be falling for something that isn't even real. To elaborate, if this person is in a position of authority, power or respect in something that interests you or matters a great deal to you, whether it's a work, hobby, club or sports role, you might have confused the role or position of the person with who they really are. This is a common misunderstanding in a world where we overvalue what people "do" instead of who people are by way of their "character".
- For example, Jenna's got a crush on Gary. He is the top debater for the year and has an incredible way with words, which is something she wishes she had the courage to stand up and do too––indeed, hearing his delivery just causes her to melt inside. He is also the President of the debating society and has a lot of influence within the English faculty. He seems to have endless people surrounding him wanting a piece of his time. Jenna especially wants to be a debater and to be noticed for her word skills too. She knows Gary is not very nice to her and has even outright insulted her on a number of occasions but she thinks this is almost charming because it's a sign he's clever, witty and one day, may come to realize that she's good with words too. Jenna is sorely mistaken––she loves what Gary stands for, not the prig that Gary actually is.
- George is falling deeply for his boss. She is smart, clever, sassy and there is constant talk that management is so impressed with her that she's slated for promotion to a top role shortly. Yet, she is always snarky and cutting in remarks she makes to George and insists that he redo his work constantly, even though George has always been a top performer and other people recognize that he has excellent work outcomes. Yet, George is ready to put his own work down because he thinks that his boss is smarter than him and that if he does as she asks, she'll come to realize that he's special and will agree to go out with him. As with Jenna, George is sadly mistaken––he is struck by the glamor of his boss's role and the accolades she gets and downplays her rudeness to him in the hope she'll change. She won't change and he'll just keep on putting himself down.
2.Find your own place of self respect.
Continuing to like someone who disrespects you will often be grounded in your own insecurities and lack of self-respect. In some ways, you may see this insulting and rude crush as someone who could fill what you perceive as the empty spaces inside of you. In reality though, nobody can complete you; only you can complete you and if you have low self-esteem, low self-respect and a ton of insecurities, then you'll need to focus on yourself and your own needs rather than continuing to chase after someone who knows how to zero in on your weaknesses and turn the knife. Be prepared to stop putting yourself through this and start improving your own sense of self worth instead. Remind yourself that no person who insults you or puts you down deserves to form a part of your life.
3.Don't over-analyze their behavior.
Likely they're the way they are because of 1001 reasons, from their own insecurities through to attention-seeking. However, ultimately you should reach a point of saying to yourself "who cares"? You're not their guardian angel, you're not their health professional and you're not their personal trainer. If they have problems, you are not there to save or change them and you risk making up reasons to excuse their behavior if you over-analyze what impels them to behave in a certain way. If the way they behave toward you is getting you down and is hurtful, that should be enough of an alert for you to start extricating yourself from your one-sided crush on them.
If you're suffering from trying to be a people pleaser, see How to stop being a people pleaser for tips on overcoming this self-respect-destroying behavior.
4.Realize that you will have to get over this person.
A healthy relationship between two people is not possible if one lacks respect for the other. While this is the hardest part of the process, it's the most essential part. If you're unwilling to put your feelings for this person behind you, then you'll continue to long after this person and not put your own needs and respect first.
5.Focus on why you should dislike this person's attitude toward you rather than on why you like them.
Once they have shown a disrespectful attitude towards you on several occasions, this should be sufficient warning to you that they're not going to stop and that their view of you is always going to be unfriendly and unkind. If you keep excusing their behavior or treating their attitude as something other than what it is, you continue to let their rudeness and disrespect occur and allow them to get away with atrocious behavior toward you. Ask yourself how they're putting you down or insulting you. For example: Does this person embarrass you in public? Tease you relentlessly? Annoy you to no end? Throw barbs your way, especially when others are there to hear them? Mock you? Knowing why you should not desire to be linked with this person romantically or otherwise is an essential part of getting over a misplaced crush.
6.Protect yourself by disengaging.
Possibly you've been putting yourself into a position of being in their presence as often as possible, enduring their rudeness and insults for the sake of spending time near them, just to be in their presence. Whatever your current behavior toward them, it must end––for your sake. It is suggested that you pull away from this person completely and start pulling yourself together instead. Here is what to do next:
- Do not speak to this person. They clearly do not deserve your attention.
- If you have their phone number in your contacts, their e-mail in your address list, or their profile on a social networking site, delete every source of contact and connection. (You can even go as far as blocking them.) This will let the person know that you will not accept their past actions and won't put up with any future rudeness.
- If the person attempts to talk you, do not respond. Simply walk away. If saying nothing feels too rude to you (after all, you don't want to dip to their level), simply say one polite thing to excuse yourself and then leave.
- If you have no choice but to talk to them (such as at work), be perfunctory and say only what needs to be said, all in a professional tone and manner. Consider keeping a record of any insults relating to you personally or your work performance, to raise with your boss or someone else. Turn this type of situation right around in your mind from being a tolerable crush to being an intolerable harasser.
7.Stop talking about this person to anyone else.
Do not gossip or insult them behind their back. That is simply playing their game and failing to strengthen your own self-respect and character. When someone asks you what happened between the two of you, say something along the lines of "I was tired of dealing with him/her." Or simply say that both of you agreed to disagree and that you're not interacting much these days. Ultimately, it really isn't anybody else's business, so you're free to say "Why do you want to know? It's not something I care to discuss."
8.Get support from family and genuine friends or even from colleagues or team members you know you can trust.
Cutting someone off hurts, especially if you've been fantasizing about their potential future role in your life and you've been expending endless energies trying to get them to come around to seeing you in a better light. You may still have some feelings for them afterward and that's natural but it's not a reason to fall back into old patterns of behavior. Arrange a gathering for a few friends in order to get your mind off this person, spend time hanging out with people who see and acknowledge the good in you and be with people who are supportive of you, whether you're a success or not at any endeavor. Let yourself feel what it's like to be around people who respect you and don't give you grief.
9.Get on with your life in a more positive and self-thoughtful manner.
Be mindful in future of how you'll interact with the people who cross your path and don't allow your heart to run away with crazy ideas of saving or redeeming anyone. People will only change who they are of their own volition. Moreover, fantasizing that someone will come around and see the "real you" means that the "real you" isn't shining forth enough to begin with and spending time polishing the "real you" should now be your current focus. We attract and are attracted to like people, so sometimes we are attracted to a person who reveals something we've disowned inside of ourselves. It's important to learn from the fact that you've been attracted to someone deeply negative because it says a lot about how you feel about yourself inside. You do deserve more and you need to remind yourself of this constantly until it becomes second nature, as well as working on those aspects of yourself that you need to nurture with greater kindness.
- Stand tall and have confidence in yourself. You will attract like-minded people who share your positivity and who appreciate your strengths and personality when you choose this path. It may seem hard now but this is the only genuine way of attracting a person who sees the "real you"––by being a person who is unafraid to express yourself and to expect respect back from others.
- Read How to stand up for yourself for more ideas.


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My sister from another mister, Aditi Sharma Maheshwari looked like a piece of art today when we met for lunch. An ex-colleague, my namesake's sense of style spells sophistication. A brilliant writer and even better confidante, AM (as she's fondly called) brings her fun side to her dressing.
She's an insanely colourful and caring person and her outfits reflect that. Look at her pull off a Indian art print skirt with multi-coloured shoes and matte peachish-orange nail polish while looking very bit the dainty. Doesn't she look like a happy bird?
Aditi Sharma Maheshwari is wearing a V-neck black top from Lifestyle, a Zara midi skirt, vibrant kitten heels from Catwalk, a Versace handbag and matte nail polish from Colorbar. Similar top, skirt, heels, bag and nail polish.
Fun fact
Right before this post went live, AM texts me, "I hope I don't get too much fan mail". Don't you try denying this girlfriend, I've got proof.


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BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:50 A.M.) – The militants of Saraya Ahl Sham has delayed their departure from east Lebanon this week after they refused to leave the area on government provided green buses.
According to Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA), the militants demanded that their fighters be transported in cars, rather than the government provided buses.
Lebanese negotiators are currently working on a resolution to overcome these obstacles, NNA added.
The second batch of these militants and their families were expected to leave this weekend; however, due to this delay, they likely won't leave for another week.
- 336Shares


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VIDEO: Early View of Hybrid Advice Point of View (Future of Wealth)
I was invited to attend the Hubbis "Digital Wealth Asia 2017" event in Singapore on June 15th (after arriving on a red-eye from India a couple hours prior – cue the world's smallest violin!), in order to present a very early view of our research into hybrid advice models as the future of wealth management. The full agenda can be seen here.
On the sidelines of the event, the Hubbis team convinced me to do an un-planned video interview. If you want to have an idea of the messaging I covered, the video link below should do the job 🙂 Enjoy!
Video Link – https://lnkd.in/fRtAPzs
Article Link – https://lnkd.in/fxjkF7w


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This is Rob's off-grid, passive solar tiny cabin in New Mexico.
It's a 12′ by 48′ cabin including the porches. From the outside, you'll notice it has a slanted shed-style roof with rainwater collection.
When you go inside, you'll find a living area, dining, kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. Please enjoy, learn more, and re-share below. Thank you!
Off-Grid, Passive Solar Tiny Cabin in New Mexico
Our big thanks to Rob N. for sharing!
You can share this tiny house story with your friends and family for free using the e-mail and social media re-share buttons below. Thanks.
If you enjoyed this tiny house story you'll absolutely LOVE our Free Daily Tiny House Newsletter with even more! Thank you!
More Like This: Explore our Cabins Section
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Student Evaluation
Standards, Guidelines, and Procedures
At the end of each academic year, all students are evaluated by the clinical faculty with respect to progress in research, clinical activities, coursework, and general professional behavior. Students complete an Annual Report Form (PDF) and submit it to the Graduate-program Administrative Assistant prior to this annual evaluation meeting.
The General Evaluation Standards (PDF) are outlined by year to provide guidance for this process, and a summary of Major Milestones and Deadlines (PDF) helps orient students to key components and timelines of the training program. See also Research Training.
We only admit very qualified candidates, and have every expectation that they will succeed in our Department and their subsequent careers. As a faculty, we are committed to fostering the success of our students, and take great pride and delight in doing so. However, challenges can arise and extenuating circumstances can preclude timely progression. If a student does not progress satisfactorily, the Performance, Remediation, and Termination Standards and Procedures (PDF) specify the procedures to be followed.


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Award-winning WCPT Congress arrives in Cape Town
The World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT) brings its biennial congress to the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from 2nd to 4th of July.
The award-winning congress is taking place in Africa for the first time and will welcome more than 2,000 physical therapists from 100 countries to Cape Town.
The South African Society of Physiotherapy (SASP) is hosting the event and guarantees a warm and friendly welcome to all, supported by nearly 200 volunteers, principally physiotherapy students from Western Cape universities and SASP members. The Physiotherapy Department at the University of Stellenbosch is also hosting the pre- and post-congress courses.
A WCPT Congress is where the world of physical therapy meets to share the latest research and practice advances, to debate hot topics and professional issues, to network and to learn from experiences across diverse settings around the world.
Alongside the scientific and educational programme a lively exhibition hall includes industry-wide support from a comprehensive selection of global and local companies.
The programme promises to engage delegates and speakers through a variety of session formats and learning styles. The Indaba, a new innovative meeting and inspiration zone, takes its lead from the traditions of meetings in South Africa and features, and includes among other things, a programme looking at global solutions for local problems.
Every day physical therapists make life-changing contributions to patient care and service delivery, as well as important contributions to health promotion and wellbeing. The WCPT Congress showcases the best in physical therapy research and practice to push the profession forward, which delivers direct economic and societal benefits.
WCPT and SASP are ensuring that the congress creates a lasting legacy, with a number of outreach activities. Fundraising has enabled 19 delegates from low resource countries to benefit from a bursary programme and attend the congress. SASP has collaborated with the WoW! (WesternCape on Wellness) initiative through health promotion activities out on the streets, and held a Brain Break Movement competition for primary schools to get children physically active.
WCPT and SASP have also partnered with the Shoes2Move!campaign, aiming to raise much-needed funds to buy new exercise shoes and engage people in community exercise sessions. Delegates and exhibitors will be encouraged to donate towards the campaign.
For further information (WCPT) please contact: Kiran Acharya,email@example.com, +44 7534904190
For further information (SASP) please contact: Magda Fourie,firstname.lastname@example.com, +27 833025365


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The new video from Daybehavior – Cambiare
A month ago Daybehavior released their new single and video for "Change". Now the band launches a video of the Italian version of the song, "Cambiare". You can watch the video below. At the moment Daybehavior are in the studio continuing the work on their 4th album, "Based on a True Story".
Video description:
Daybehavior will soon release their 4th album, "Based on a true story".
The first single released from the album is : Change/Cambiare. This is the Italian video with lyrics.
Watch the English video here:
Prodotto e diretto dai daybehavior
Styling: Pirjo Niemelä
Trucco e acconciature: Sofia Lewandrowski
Direttore della fotografia: Tommy Arell
Motion graphics e grafica 3D: Carl Hammar
(C) Graplur 2015
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/se/artist/da…
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/search?…
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_nos…
New video from Swedish synth pop act Daybehavior – Godspeed
This is a fan video for the song Godspeed by the Swedish act daybehavior that we here at SBC interviewed about a year ago, you can read it here >>
Visit www.daybehavior.com for info and please support the band! Buy the album! The song "Godspeed" is taken from the album "Follow That Car!", released in september 2012
It all started with the two friends Carl and Tommy who had both been making music in various constellations since the early eighties. In 1988 they met at a party and found out they shared similar musical references, particularly synthesizer-pop music from the early Eighties. In the summer of '93 they got together and seriously started to consider the possibilities of making music together. They decided in what way they wanted to work and a music project slowly took form at their own Graplur Studios. In the winter of '93 they started the search for a vocalist, and a little more than one year later, after having tried out more than 40 different vocalists, Paulinda entered the studio and the last piece of the Daybehavior puzzle fell into place. Half Italian, half Swedish Paulinda was able to add even more beauty to the Daybehavior sound, turning their music into something really special with her melodic voice, and her lyrics which she mainly writes in English, but sometimes in Italian. The first album was released by the indie-label North of No South (NONS) and was distributed and released in Europe, Australia and Japan.
Daybehavior out with a new single
Check out the new single from Dabehavior called Silent dawn.
Daybehavior – Silent Dawn (Single Edit) by Stereoklang Produktion
Silent Dawn, taken from our forthcoming third album Follow that Car! which will be released later this summer.
Silent Dawn is a suggestive, dreamy pop song, slow but yet with a catchy chorus. It's representative for our specific sound.
Read more about the band here: www.daybehavior.com
Stereoklang also has an interview with the band that you can find right here >>
Daybehavior's Paulinda interviewed on their come back on the synthpop scene
Stereoklang got an exclusive talk with lead singer Paulinda Crescentini in the Swedish synthpop act Daybehavior, who recently announced their come back after almost 7 years in complete silence. With a new single out "It's a game" and a new album planned for release this winter, we had to have a chat about their music and future plans. And of course a bit of insights into the hardware and software being used in their studio, somewhere hidden in central Stockholm.
Daybehavior is a trio consisting of Paulinda, Carl and Tommy, and having lost one of the band members for a retreat to Thailand it was a nice surprise to us all when suddenly after 7 years there was a sign of reunion. Although all members have continued with music in one form or another during that long period, e.g. Carl is a full-time musician and producer, the drive to making music together again brought them back together and the music video "City Lights" was released earlier this year.
Paulinda tells me that the new album, that will contain 12 new songs, is the best that ever has come out of the band and one success factor is that they now are all closely involved in the song writing process. Carl is the producer master mind, Daybehavior produces everything themselves as for now at least, Tommy often starts off the process by sending a demo from Phuket containing a general sound structure, to which Paulinda will add melody and lyrics. Paulinda and Carl, both frequent Logic users, will add to the song and after a few bounces across the globe they are ready for studio recording at Carl's place.


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Tagum City—Three Pearl Awards were bagged by the local government of Tagum, which resulted to the elevation of the city into the Hall of Fame, in the 13th Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) Department of Tourism (DOT) Pearl Awards last October 5, 2018 at Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental during the 19th National Convention of Tourism Officers.
The city government of Tagum's best practices on promoting and bannering tourism gained two of the highest recognitions an LGU could receive after a thorough and rigorous screening of the ATOP panel wherein only three finalists each category were able to defend their programs from a total of 102 hopeful entries at the National Commision for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) last September 21 and 22.
The first pearl was on community-based responsible tourism where Tagum, priding its banner program, the Tagumpay Gulayan which is aimed for a healthy and food-secured city while promoting farm-tourism, bested all other entries from different municipalities, cities, and provinces across the Philippines.
The bid for best tourism-oriented LGU, which highlighted the efforts of the city's Tourism Office in putting premium on its best practices relative to the promotion of tourism events such as Musikahan Festival given the absence of natural scenic tourist spots in Tagum, was hailed as the winner for three consecutive years and earned the second pearl; receiving the same award for three straight years yielded the third pearl which installed the City of Tagum in the Hall of Fame.
The prestigious convention and awards night was keynoted by the secretary of the Philippine Communications Operations Office, Jose Ruperto Martin M. Andanar where he highlighted the duties and responsibilities of the government and its constituency towards preserving Mother Nature.
He stressed out that, "We should rightly be proud of these gifts from nature. As we must, as a matter of obligation, preserve, protect, respect and cherish the land and the waters underneath the environmental circle that surrounds us."
Furthermore, Sec. Andanar underscored that while the government is exhausting all means to provide guidance for managing the natural resources, people must provide for conservation.
The tourism awards conferred to Tagum were considered to be keys in opening new doors to explore new means of creating programs that promote tourism in the city which would generate a multitude of benefits to people.
The Tagum delegation who attended the recognition ceremony was led by Hon. Ronald S. Eliot, the committee head on Agriculture, Hon. Rey Cyril T. Alba, committee head on Tourism and Sisterhood Ties, and Vicerjean Casiano, the Division Head of the City Tourism and Investment Promotions Division. JP Cordovero/CIO Tagum


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As reality TV goes, the Great British Bake Off must be the sweetest show with plenty of sugar, bunting and I suspect lashings of ginger beer being drunk behind the scenes. Behind the nostalgic ode to the eccentricities of middle-class-middle-England village fetes is a seriously supportive competition between amateurs who love to bake rather than wannabe celebrities seeking fame and fortune.
Sure, some previous competitors carve out new careers for themselves as professionals or cook book authors but mostly the stars of the show go back to their day jobs and being home-bakers. Now if that's not keeping it real, I'm not sure what is.
As someone who has struggled with various perspectives of baking over the years I fully appreciate the dramas that unfold in the Bake-Off tent. How misread recipes, lack of know-how and artistic inadequacies can leave you physically exhausted and mentally tortured. Yet when the conditions are right and you're in the baking flow producing a physical structure that both looks and tastes good can be one of the most satisfying things to do.
My cake baking is more intermittent these days much to the disappointment of my husband who sees not serving cake with afternoon tea as a sacrilegious act. Although I would never make the cut for GBBO I have been perfecting the art of the loaf cake over winter using a basic recipe a tweaking to bring a little variety to the plate. This edition was classic date and walnut I enjoyed best when indulged with one of my favourite blue cheese.
Date and Walnut Loaf
2 Cups of Ground Walnuts (Lightly toast the oven first and when cool whizz them up in the food processor until they are like fine breadcrumbs)
1 Cup Almond Flour
5 eggs
1 cup of dates (used dried dates or you could use the rather more expensive but sweet medjool dates)
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp baking soda
Pinch of salt
Pre-heat the oven to 160 degrees C and line a loaf tin with baking paper.
Put all the ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth. It takes a minute or so for everything to blend into a smooth pourable batter.
Pour the cake batter into the prepared loaf tin. Bake for 40-60 minutes (mine took 60 minutes) or until the a skewer prodded into the cake comes out clean.
Lift from the loaf tin and cool on a wire rack.
Serve on it's own with a steaming brew or for a luxurious treat with a crumbling of creamy blue cheese.


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Exclusive 'Jobs' TV Spot: Watch Ashton Kutcher Risk Everything to Change Our Future Forever
"If we want to be great, we have to risk everything!"
The world lost one of our greatest visionaries when Apple cofounder Steve Jobs passed away, but now his story is set to play out on the big screen in Jobs, with Ashton Kutcher getting the first crack at playing Jobs as a spirited risk taker who stopped at nothing to see that his dreams came true.
Kutcher (who eerily resembles the younger, more vibrant tech revolutionary) is joined by Josh Gad, Dermot Mulroney, Lukas Haas, J.K. Simmons, Matthew Modine and James Woods in the film, which was directed by Joshua Michael Stern. For those with any kind of interest in the story behind the technology (we're talking Mac computers, iPhones, iPads) you obsess over every day, you'll definitely want to carve out some time to watch and be inspired by the one man who changed all our lives forever.
Jobs hits theaters on August 16. For more, hit up the film's official website.
Movies.com, the ultimate source for everything movies, is your destination for new movie trailers, reviews, photos, times, tickets + more! Stay in the know with the latest movie news and cast interviews at Movies.com.
Copyright © 2020 FANDANGO MOVIES.


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GRAMPS saves your changes as soon as you apply them. This means, for example, that any time you clickwhen using GRAMPS, your changes are immediately recorded and saved. There is no separate "save" command (although there is a "save as" command that we'll discuss later.)
You can undo changes you've made by selecting Undo History dialog available from the Edit menu.→ . If you select this command repeatedly, your most recent changes will be undone one at a time. To roll back multiple commands at a time, you can using the
If you want to return your database to the way it was when you opened it, select→ . (This is just like quitting without saving in other programs.)
If you would like to save your database under a different name, you can do so by choosing→ and specifying the name (and, optionally, the format) of your new database. Note that will allow you to continue editing the newly saved database. If this is not what you want to do, you may wish to use the command instead.


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— Main Menu —
Leadership Lessons Are Not Only in Books
February 12, 2018
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Years ago, I realized that leadership lessons come from many areas of life and business. I was reminded of this fact recently. For two weeks I was sick, sicker than I have ever been. I had the flu with severe body aches all over and fatigue, followed by bronchitis with continued pain
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The Pursuit of Entrepreneurship
June 07, 2017
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Entrepreneurship is a goal that many dream to achieve at an early stage of life. In the pursuit of entrepreneurship, analyzing and adjusting your lifestyle is essential to your success. Working from home should be a breeze if you master the skills below: Communication Skills. Communic
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Consistent Follow Up is Key!
April 27, 2017
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Have you ever been told "we will return your call at our earliest convenience", and never received a call back? You sit around patiently by your phone waiting to be called, one day passes then two until finally three weeks later you receive the call back. By this time, you have
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Becoming the Top Selling MLM Distributor(s) Tips
April 18, 2017
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You can always discover ways to advance your sales and business skills through Team National's training materials, sales book, and blogs. These are great ways to get a head start on building your business to its maximum potential. If you want to get more, best online casino One
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Practice is The Key
March 31, 2017
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"If you can't explain it to a six-year-old, you don't understand it yourself. "~ Albert Einstein The Direct Sales business is an industry some consider complex. One of the main reasons why is because they just simply do not understand the business. Once you understand the conce
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Team National Donates Personal Finance Curriculum to South Florida Schools
March 08, 2017
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Team National is donating Ramsey Solutions' Foundations in Personal Finance curriculum to Dillard High School, Fort Lauderdale High School, Stranahan High School, and Whiddo Rogers Education Center. Foundations in Personal Finance is the premier curriculum for teaching financial liter
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Overcoming Procrastination
March 02, 2017
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Have you thought about what has stopped you from living the life you dream of? If that question was asked to a large crowd, the overwhelming response would probably be financial restrictions, when in fact the real reason is typically procrastination. There are many factors that contri
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Kick off 2017
January 18, 2017
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It's a new year and you are probably thinking, another year has passed and I still did not accomplish my goals. Don't be alarmed, because research shows only 8% of people actually achieve them. It is never too late to switch gears, buckle up, and refocus. To reboo
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Worth The Wait
June 08, 2016
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Greater Appreciation can come from discipline, faith & waiting. In today's fast paced microwave quick world often we believe success, dreams and goals can and should be microwave quick. Yet, I believe microwave quick can often be too quick. Sometimes the waiting and working
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Allow Your Inner Light to Sparkle!
December 15, 2015
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I love the quote I've seen many times: "Don't allow anyone to dull your sparkle" author unknown. Recently, I was in Las Vegas a city known for lights, bling, action and anything goes. The airport itself is different from any other airport I have been in.
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We offer naturist stays in a beautiful location exclusively for couples. Hopefully the government will relax lockdown restrictions allowing stays here from July 4th.
Naturist stay
You will need to be comfortable about being in a naturist setting. A feature of the stay is nudity in a mixed gender setting. Couples new to clothes free holidays are welcome.
Our accommodation location is clothes free whenever weather makes it comfortable. The hot tub is the only place where nothing is ever worn. For the rest, it's according to the temperature conditions.
Our location
Our accommodation is called "Oak Lodge". We are near Monmouth on the edge of The Forest of Dean. Oak Lodge is within the Wye Valley area of outstanding natural beauty. This makes it an ideal location for visiting the many beauty spots, historic buildings and activity centres in the region. It is also easy for popping into the historic market town of Monmouth.
Our grounds
Oak Lodge is located on a South West facing hillside. This is a quiet location. It has a large garden on a series of levels or terraces. Above the main house the garden is surrounded by woodland - our sunny glade. In the central area is delightful lawn area - our liberty lawn. It's an ideal sunbathing spot for an all-over tan.
The hot tub and patio are in the lower garden. The view from our hot tub is stunning! While soaking in the hot tub you can enjoy the views of Monmouth, the Wye Valley and in the distance Sugar Loaf mountain and the hills of the South Wales.
It's worth noting that our hillside location means we are not suitable for people who find climbing steps/stairs difficult. There are two flights of steps to climb to our front door from the front gate and three flights behind the house to the Studio Cabin.
Please check our Availability Calendar. The Availability Calendar is at the bottom of the Studio Cabin page.
All year round
It's always a great time to have a naturist break with us. The hot tub is always ready for use whatever the season. In the main house a roaring log fire lit inside during the colder months. In the studio cabin there's thermostatically controlled heating and the thick log construction insulates you from the outside weather.
In the Summer, the huge oak tree at the front provides shade in the afternoon over the front sitting area providing a pleasantly cool space even in the hottest of weather.
Never mind the weather! It's always warm and cosy inside and you can enjoy the view. Outside you can enjoy the hot tub in almost any weather. But if you are wondering about the weather follow this link to get the current weather and the forecast for the next few days: Our Local Weather.
Book in advance
We only take advance bookings, not last minute bookings. This means we need a day or so notice before the planned arrival date for your booking. If you need more information, you can contact us via on our Contact page.
Check in and departure
Check in - you can arrive at any time from 3pm on weekdays, 3.30pm on Saturdays. On the day of departure 11am is the normal check out time but this can be varied if our circumstances allow it. We are also sometimes on weekdays able to offer an earlier check in so a request will be considered.
Sorry, we aren't able to do Sunday arrivals.
Suspended for 2020. Sorry.
Local attractions
You are welcome to stay around the lodge and simply relax. However, if you'd like to get out and see the sights there are many possibilities.
Our location is perfect for exploring the Wye Valley from Synmonds Yat all the way down to Tintern Abbey. Equally easily, you can go off into the Forest of Dean with its trails, view points, lakes - for example, Cannop Ponds and Mallards Pike Lake - and places of interest like Clearwell Caves and Puzzlewood.
Parking is very limited. We have just one space for visitors directly in front of the house. The space directly in front of the house is not suitable for commercial vehicles and large vans, if you've got a vehicle like that you'll need to park in the place lower down the lane. There is another place to park lower down our lane by the gates of the small Welsh Water Board facility.
This is a no smoking location.
We are not able to accept pets.
In order to allow for good administration of our stays, all stays must be booked using the Booking Form. Stay bookings can't be accepted in any other way and no stay is reserved/secured until a deposit has been received.
Conditions of stay
Stays at Oak Lodge (The Forest Spa) are only for couples who are comfortable in a naturist setting. This condition must be agreeable for both members of the couple intending to stay. By "comfortable in a naturist setting" we mean, having no problem about being without clothes in the company of others of both sexes who are likewise going without clothes.


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By Norwich Bulletin (September 7, 2018 Edition)
A Meet The Candidates Night will be held at 7 p.m. Sept. 17 at Ekonk Community Grange, 723 Ekonk Hill Road, Sterling.
Candidates for attorney general Democrat William Tong and Republican Sue Hatfield, candidates for State Senate 18th District Democrat Bob Stratchen and Republican Heather Somers, candidates for State Legislature 45th District Democrat Steve Mikutel and Republican Brian Lanoue, candidates for judge of probate Democratic Andrea Truppa and Republican Carolanne Rowe and candidate for Registrar of Voters (Sterling) Republican Katherine Hermonot were invited to participate.
Each candidate will be given two minutes to present their elevator speech, expressing their platform. Grange legislative director Russell Gray will serve as moderator. A one-hour Q&A session will follow the introductions.
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