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VA improves "My HealtheVet" website
Under the latest improvement to VA's "My HealtheVet" website, veterans will be able to update personal information and record medical data such as prescriptions.
"VA is committed to making it as easy as possible for veterans to take care of themselves," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi. "Today, we are adding wellness reminders to this website. In the near future, we'll be adding other helpful features."
A new capability now added to the site allows veterans to record their personal information and medical data – including emergency contacts, health care providers and insurance, prescriptions, tests and allergies – in a private, secure Internet environment. Eventually, veterans will be able to receive their medical records from VA online. Another new feature will be a "Learn About" tab, which will lead veterans to a variety of topics in health education.
"My HealtheVet will give veterans easy access to their health information at the same time it protects their privacy," said Dr. Robert Kolodner, VA's acting chief health information officer. "The new features will significantly expand the information veterans can record and share with anyone they choose – medical professionals, family members and others."
Kolodner said My HealtheVet establishes a veteran-clinician partnership that will result in better-informed decision making and move veterans toward more proactive management of their health care."
"The idea is to make it as easy as possible for veterans to take good care of themselves," said Kolodner.
VA launched My HealtheVet on Veterans Day 2003.The site is located on the Internet at www.myhealth.va.gov.


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Plus, a couple days ago, Gore was on the "Today" show (right after his son was arrested), and we got this:
"I've kind of fallen out of love with politics."... which I blogged about. But there was also this, which I didn't mention:
Gore laughed when asked if he was ready to endorse a candidate for president. He said his evaluation would be based on what each decides to do about climate change.Come on! It's obvious. He's not a seer. He's talking about something within his own personal knowledge.
"Some of them have made good, positive statements, but it's still treated as a side issue. I will predict for you that within the next 500 days that this issue will be the Number One issue on the agenda," he said.

subset: commoncrawl


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This is an inactive web page.
Formely supported by NSF, CISE: Design Automation Program, and by CISM (Center for Integrated Space Microsystems) at JPL,
Israel Koren, Professor
People that were involved in this project
Tutorial: "Yield: Statistical Modeling and Enhancment Techniques," (PS format) (or PDF format) presented at the Yield Optimization and Test (YOT'01) Workshop, Nov. 2001.
Presentation at JPL, System-on-a-Chip Meeting, April 20-21, 1998.
Research has focused on the following directions:
Yield Analysis and Estimation Techniques
Yield Enhancement Schemes
Reliability of Digital Circuits and Fault-tolerant Mixed-signal Circuits.
koren 'at' euler.ecs.umass.edu


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What a pleasant surprise the BUKA TC class had last night!
Sensei Jim Maloney was a guest at the TC Class. Master Maloney was in the area for a special assignment and paid a visit to the BUKA with Van. What a thrill it was to have two great masters teach the subject of their art that makes them so unique in the Uechi-ryu community. I relished the times that Jim used to come to Bob Bethoneys dojo in the past and I was looking forward to this opportunity to learn more from this Uechi-ryu legend who was now making an appearance at my dojo for the first (I hope not last) time.
Van, reiterated his rotation and compression for the class and to show Jim how the TC class was progressing in this concept. Sanchin, Seisan, and Sanseiryu were broken down and disected for Master Maloney. Jim liked Van's "shake like a wet dog" technique while performing the groin strike.
After 75 minutes, Master Canna turned the class over to Master Maloney. The relationship of the stance to your height was discused and Jim stated that while in the sanchin stance you should be 40% of your basic height, in effect dropping your weight. In this stance, the more a person weighs in proportion to their height, the stronger they will be. Mr Maloney had me stand in my normal sanchin stance. Although it was pretty good, it was not perfect as demonstrated by Jim while placing a pole on one side of the body. The center line of the body in relation to pole, had more of the body behind the poll than in front. By rotating the shoulders forward and sinking the hands down a bit, the stance shrunk. Now the body center (from the side) in relation to the pole was exactly centered on the pole. In this stance, you appeared like you were leaning, but while looking at it from the side with the pole you could clearly see that the body was centered. Master Maloney then proceded to push on my arms trying to force me backward. The resistance to his push was incredible! A few TC members assisted by pushing on his back and the stance still held. He now positioned me in a kiko dachi and using the same stance it was nearly impossible to push me back. Next we performed sanchin strikes while in this stance. The energy and power, using the TC principle of rotation and compression combined with the 40% stance and the centering of the arm, during the strike was eye opening to say the least. The speed was increased and the effort was decreased.
I could immediately feel more power on extension and less strain on the elbow.
Jim then did some demonstrating on how the principle worked and believe me he has a tremendous amount of power with very little forward arm movement using this stance. I was pushed at least 10 feet across the dojo and he never chambered the strike! His arms moved 6 inches forward, if that much!
We then did sanchin steps while a partner put his belt through our belts in the back and tried to hold us back. While stepping in the traditional shoulders back and down and upright arms stance, we were not able to step easily. As soon as we rotated the shoulders forward and placed the hands lower in realation to the shoulders, we became plow horses and pulled our partners along behind us.
Sensei Maloney closed out the class by performing a Sanseiryu for us using the stance that he showed us. His remarkable speed and agility was devistating and his kata showed power, speed and finess. A slowed down (by his standards) Kanchin was then performed for our benifit, to detect the rotation and compression that the TC class has learned under Sensei Canna's tutalige while combining the stance and speed of his movements. Phenominal to say the least!
If you ever get a chance to take a class with Sensei Maloney, drop everything that you are doing and go. You will not regret it!
Thank You, Master Maloney for visiting the Brockton Uechi-ryu Karate Academy. Once again you have given the students of a Brockton dojo a little more insight into the fabulous movements that eminate from your kata. And thanks always to Sensei Canna for bringing such special guests to the BUKA.
I will forever be grateful.
Len Testa


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Lands of the Bible Cruise 2020 with Fr. Dwight Longenecker
Join us on the Lands of the Bible Cruise aboard the Celebrity Reflection, September 25-October 8, 2020 with guest speaker Fr. Dwight Longenecker. This cruise explores places such as the Sea of Galilee, Athens, and Turkey. Pricing for this 14-day trip starts at $4,898 including flights from New York. (See brochure for other stateroom options and prices.)
Rates are per person and based on double occupancy.
What's Included
- All Inclusive Pricing
- Deluxe A/C Motor Coaches
- Fuel Surcharges and Gov't Taxes
- Entrance and Program Fees
- International Airfare from NY
- Meals on Ship
- Port Charges
- Select Shore Excursions
- Cruise
- Overseas Transfers
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 Sept. 25 - Depart the USA
Your pilgrimage begins as you depart the USA and arrive in Rome.
Day 2 Sept. 26 - Arrive in Rome
Time permitting, take a panaromic tour of Rome before transferring to Civitavecchia to board the luxurious Celebrity Reflection.
Day 3 Sept. 27 - At Sea
At Sea
Day 4 Sept. 28 – At Sea
At Sea
Day 5 Sept. 29 - Paphos, Cyprus
Arrive in the picturesque harbor of Paphos. It is in Paphos that Paul was flogged and had 39 lashes because of his belief in Christianity (Acts 13). The Pillar of Paul now stands on this spot. Visit the House of Dionysos, House of Theseus, House of Aion and House of Orpheus where the finest mosaics in Cyprus are located. Visit the Tombs of the Kings, also known as Palaiokastra, where hundreds of burial chambers are cut into the rock.
Day 6 Sept. 30 – Jerusalem, Israel
We dock at Ashdod. Explore Jerusalem and see the House of the High Priest Caiaphas, where Jesus was tried before the Sanhedrin. Stand upon the Mount of Olives and view the city as Jesus did. Wander among the olive trees of the Garden of Gethsemane. Enter the Old City and see the Pool of Bethesda. You'll walk along the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, built over the sites of the Crucifixion and Resurrection.
Day 7 Oct. 1 – Bethlehem, Israel
Travel to Bethlehem, where you'll discover the cave revered as the place where Jesus was born (Matt. 1; Luke 2). The church, which was constructed on the site, is the world's oldest functioning church.
Day 8 Oct. 2 - Sea of Galilee, Israel
We dock at Haifa. Venture inland to the Sea of Galilee. You'll stand on the Mount of the Beatitudes where Jesus gave His most well-known sermon (Matthew 5). At Tabgha, the traditional location for the calling of the disciples and the feeding of the 5000, you'll find the Church of the Fish and the Loaves (Luke 9). Visit the Chapel of the Primacy where three times Peter professed his devotion to the risen Christ (John 21). Travel to the shore town of Capernaum where Jesus called Peter, Andrew, James, John (Matt. 4) and later Matthew.
Day 9 Oct. 3 - At Sea
At Sea
Day 10 Oct. 4 - Ephesus, Turkey
Journey to Ephesus, the marble city where Paul spent three years of his ministry. The ruins of Ephesus have been restored much like the city was in Paul's time. You will visit the ancient Agora and view the Great Theater. View the terrace houses, also known as "the houses of the rich," which give a true impression of the ancient lifestyle. Also, visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum for a look at some of Ephesus' most prized artifacts.
Day 11 Oct. 5 - Athens & Corinth, Greece
The architectural splendors of the ancient city of Athens are as magical as ever. View the world-renowned Acropolis, the Propylaea, and the Parthenon. Time permitting, view Mars Hill where Paul debated with the intellectual community of his day. Walk among the ruins of the Agora, the ancient market place and center of Athenian public life. You will view the Olympic Stadium, home of the Olympics. Travel to Corinth (Acts 18), a city that inspired St. Paul's most familiar letter. You will visit the Archaeological Museum, the Market Place, and Temples. Walk among the ruins and stand on the Bema where Paul stood. Read Paul's letter to the Corinthians and visualize his address to the Gentiles as he began the task of building Corinth's church.
Day 12 Oct. 6 - Katakolon, Greece (On Own)
The small port of Katakolon on the Ionian coast is your gateway to ancient Olympia, the home of the original Olympic Games. Olympia has preserved both athletic and mythological monuments, many dating back to 776 BC. Most intriguing is the stadium, which is still standing, and the gymnasium. The museum also offers a peek at fabulous Greek sculptures. This Grecian port city is also the gateway to one of the most important archeological sites in the world, the ruins of ancient Olympia. Take a scenic drive through the small Greek villages on the way to Kouroutas Beach and spend three hours relaxing under the sun, swimming, and soaking up a perfect Greek beach day. Soak up the gorgeous Katakolon waterfront views while savoring traditional Greek specialties, like pastitsio or moussaka at one of the quaint tavernas and cafes offering shady outdoor tables. Shore Excursions are booked through Celebrity.
Day 13 Oct.7 - At Sea
At Sea
Day 14 Oct. 8 - Return to USA or continue on the exciting Rome Post Tour.
Return to USA or continue on the exciting Rome Post Tour.
Enhance Your Journey
Rome Pre Tour
Sept. 23 & 24 Depart USA/Arrive in Rome Arrive and check in to hotel.
Sept. 25 - Christian Rome The Vatican, St. Peter's Basilica, Trevi Fountain, Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo's Frescoes, St. Paul Outside the Walls
Sept. 26 - Ancient Rome Colosseum, Campidoglio, Pantheon Board Your Ship
Guests taking an extension may be on a different flight than their group and/or traveling companion.
Taxes, tips & fees for extensions are charged separately.
Rome Post Tour
Oct. 8 - Ancient Rome Colosseum, Campidoglio, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain
Oct. 9 - Christian Rome The Vatican, St. Peter's Basilica, Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo's Frescoes, St. Paul Outside the Walls
Oct. 10 - Return to USA
Guests taking an extension may be on a different flight than their group and/or traveling companion.
Taxes, tips & fees for extensions are charged separately.
Departure Dates
Friday, September 25, 2020From $4898


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NEW SMYRNA BEACH - Chowder lovers with spoon, map and grading card in hand walked along Flagler Avenue Sunday going from chowder station to chowder station as they participated in the 23rd Annual New Smyrna Beach Chowder Festival.
For a $10 donation, chowder fans got a plastic spoon and a site map that also served as a grading card. After trying the various chowder combinations they graded the particular chowder on their card. The chowder at the various stations was judged by a panel of judges and the public with the grading cards.
Restaurants participating in the event were: Barracudas, Peanut's, The Cork and Bottle, Flagler Tavern, New Smyrna Beach Moose Lodge 1835, New Smyrna Beach Moose Lodge 1515, Suds & Subs Deli, Merk's, Hidden Treasure, Townes Moose Lodge 655, Amalfitano Catering, Manzano's, Clancy's Cantina, Cafe Verde, JC Riptides, That's Amore, Beachside Wine Boutique, Cafe Heavenly and First Turn Lounge.
"Everything was perfect today, the weather was great, the crowds were great and there's a lot of good chowder up and down Flagler Avenue," said Shelley Pestine, who was serving chowder alongside his wife, Vicki, at Peanuts Sports Bar. "Everyone that took part in this event today had a chance to sample some real good chowder, but the youth ranches are the ones that really benefited. I have to say, whenever there is a fundraiser or an event to help someone, members of our community immediately step forward and give a big helping hand."
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Sheriff's Youth Ranches. The benefit started Saturday with a golf tournament hosted at Turnbull Bay Golf Course and continued from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday with the Chowder Festival along Flagler Avenue.
During the 23-year period the events have raised more than $125,000 to send local at risk children to summer camp.
New Smyrna Beach resident Ellen Redford, who was walking Flagler Avenue with her husband, Fred, said, "What a perfectly wonderful day! The weather is awesome and the chowders are all delicious. When we got out of our car I was amazed at the number of people participating in this little festival. You can tell by the look on their faces and the way they casually strolled from place to place that they were all having a good time."
Chowder Festival raises funds for Sheriff's Youth Ranches
NEW SMYRNA BEACH - Chowder lovers with spoon, map and grading card in hand walked along Flagler Avenue Sunday going from chowder station to chowder station as they participated in the 23rd Annual New Smyrna Beach Chowder Festival.


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A2 Level Photography Essay – Manipulation
Word Count: 1407
Within this topic I wanted to address the concept of manipulation, to somewhat play with the contrasting idea of what is real and what is fantasy. I will do this by looking at two photographers, Victoria Siemer, who alters her photographs before printing to imply how she adapts her own life to fulfil her imagination, whereas my other photographer, Lucas Simoes, manipulates the images afterwards to suggest the destruction of reality.
Victoria Siemer
Victoria Siemer is a conceptual graphic designer based in Brooklyn, New York. As a creative artist Siemer adapts visual spaces to create an unusual visual effect. Her manipulation of both people and landscapes has led to her being known as 'Witchoria', contemplating her photographs it does not take long to see where this name originates from, as her work deals with emotional and visual disintegration, which originated from her college thesis.
Most famous for her recent series 'Human Error', Siemer creates the photograph by overlaying an existential or lovelorn computerised error message and scans it on to a Polaroid image. The selection of the photographs appears to be random and without the "error" message, it would somewhat appear emotionless and less meaningful. In most of this series, Siemer uses the typical heart break, teenage quotes to possibly highlight Siemers own encounter in her past affairs to fulfil a depressed atmosphere.
Image Analysis "Reminder"
Within the photograph 'reminder' it displays a morbid, nostalgic mood, to somewhat signify how nothing lasts forever; everything must come to an end at one stage in everyone's life, this situation can be fulfilled either with happiness or with great sorrow and disbelief.
Typically when looking at any Polaroid picture, we associate it with a previous generation, therefore we immediately assume it is old; so in this instant, within the image "Reminder" you are able to recognise how this frequent fact of life: "Someday you will be dead" is repeating itself throughout previous generations, and it will continue to do so in the future.
Also with Polaroid's, the photographs are ironically printed instantly to capture and to preserve a moment, a memory, as a hard copy in comparison to the unreliability of a modern technology such as a mobile phone.
This instant nature of a Polaroid photo can also be compared to the message displayed which is short and sharp, instantly grabbing the viewer's attention. However once the photograph has the viewers' attention, the bleak and morbid quote contrasts with the fast characteristics of both the Polaroid photo and the profound message, by making the viewer reconsider and indulge in deep thought over the drastic issue mentioned. This contrast therefore marries both speed and long contemplation in one image.
The blue tones of the image give it a sad, depressing quality; the presence of fog possesses a cold quality to the image which matches the blues in the sea. The shallow depth of field suggests a large aperture of possibly f2.8 or f4 which in turn creates a sharp drop off in focus. This aids the overall feel of the image, suggesting there is little hope, or that our lives are fading away in front of us.
Lucas Simoes
Lucas Simoes is an artist based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, who has a background in architecture and design which explains his accurate use of geometric shapes within some of the photographs. With the combination of collage and use of fire to manipulate the face, it provides a sense that artist is attempting to destroy a memory the photo holds, arguably this could symbolise Simoes' detachment of his own past, or simply it is somewhat too hard to reencounter.
ImageSimoes created a number of series for his work, with fire being a recurring theme amongst the majority of them. However one series titled "desmemorias" the Spanish for 'un-memories' explores the loss of people and friendships from his life, as he layers the photograph ten times manipulating their faces, representing their removal from his life. The other series all draw on the aspect of fire, "Adios", "Nostalgic", "Absence" and "Who play with fire", they all play with an element of destruction and manipulation of the human face to physically erase a memory, which contrasts my previous photographer, Siemer, as she somewhat preserves the memory through the instant nature of a Polaroid camera.
Image Analysis
Within this image, we are able recognise how the burning technique is in a controlled manner to somewhat suggest Simoes intent of controlling and altering someone else's memories or even the person within.
My initial thought when looking at this image, was how this person could be perceived to have magical influences due to the glow which forms around him. However it also appears that something is stopping him from looking through the window, providing a concept where the model is stopped from seeing something which could alter his perception, a perception that there is hope within the external environments.
Before the burning technique took place, I believe this photograph captured the first encounter after washing, due to the towel being used to dry the hair and by the placement of the model being by the window it could simply suggest how he is looking what the weather is on this particular day.
Also there appears to have a vintage effect used, as the corners somewhat to appear darker to the rest of the image, this suggests how the photographer desires the image to be old looking to show the issues within modern society today. Due to modern technology, hardly anyone looks out the window to determine what the weather is or even what their mood will be like on each day, instead many use their mobile phones to check the weather to even see whether they should go out that day or even that week, now many do not have to leave the house to socialise, they can use multiple networking sites within the confined space of their bedrooms instead of being within nature and the natural, refreshing air the external environments provide.
Through my own burning experiments, I believe Simoes process consists of burning prints from film due to the orange tones and small dots as when the prints are burnt tiny bubbles can form. I also believe this photo is burnt with either a candle or lighter, with the underarm closest to the flame which has caused the surface of the paper to melt rather than simply change colour. From my own work I have discovered that burning with the portrait facing the sky it would have formed a larger bubble like in example A in the previous photographs shown above to somewhat create a blistered effect.
In conclusion both Victoria Siemer and Lucas Simoes portray the concept of manipulating memories. Siemer does this by drawing on the previous sadness she experienced in her own life in an attempt to manipulate the viewer to recall dark memories from their own life. In contrast to this Simoes attempts to erase the sadness from his life through the use of his work, rather than recall sadness for the viewer. This is represented by the manipulation of his photographs through the use of fire. This inspired my own work as I explored Simoes' use of fire to manipulate faces in my own photographs, both before and after printing. Furthermore I developed the concept of looking through the manipulated photo to display how memories can be altered, and through the use of layering a material or alternative photograph behind the burnt image i portrayed the concept of destroying one memory but creating a new one. I was also inspired by Victoria Siemer's manipulation of landscapes and use of Photoshop within her 'error messages' collection as I explored this technique to rotate and reflect parts of portraits to manipulate the faces. Therefore both Siemer and Simoes inspired me to explore the manipulation of memories and people through a range of techniques. If I was to extend the topic further I would like to explore the contrasting idea of preserving memories rather than destroying them. I would attempt to do this through layering/plastering images/objects in order to emphasise the concept of protecting and preserving memories.
Above all I was most fascinated by the comparison between Simoes' use of destroying memories to terminate the past and Siemer's use of morbid, depressing images which somewhat destroys all hope for the future. This concept will continue to inspire me throughout my work to come.
Accessed on: 02/12/2014
This is Colossal – Victoria Siemer
Accessed on: 02/12/2014
Beautiful Decay – Victoria Siemer
Accessed on: 02/12/2014
Lucas Simoes
Accessed on: 02/12/2014
Wikipedia – Lucas Simoes
Accessed on: 02/12/2014
Flickr- Lucas Simoes
Accessed on: 02/12/2014


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Date: October 16, 2012
Analysis Report Balances
|Balances As Of:
* Assumes estimated revenues in fiscal year 2012 in the amount of $25,514,400
RESOLUTION NO. RS2012-448 (MATTHEWS, BENNETT & OTHERS) – This resolution appropriates $1,382,661.50 in community development block grant (CDBG) funds for neighborhood improvement projects. CDBG funds are designated by federal law to be used for affordable housing activities and for neighborhood community improvement projects. A detailed list of the neighborhood improvement projects to be funded is attached to this analysis. Although the council approved the allocation of CDBG funds in broad terms in December 2011 as part of the approval of the annual action plan, the December legislation did not provide a specific project list. Return to Agenda
RESOLUTION NO. RS2012-449 (MATTHEWS) – This resolution approves an application for a grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies to the department of finance to sponsor workforce wellness initiatives to reduce health and injury-on-duty (IOD) costs. Metro is seeking a grant award of between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000 for this program. If awarded, the funds would be used to develop an employee wellness program targeting the highest IOD departments (fire department), and to provide a health incentive plan that would provide multi-year grandfathering of health insurance premium rates for employees meeting the wellness targets. The program would also provide "super incentives" for obese and tobacco using employees and for public safety employees that meet increased fitness standards. Return to Agenda
RESOLUTION NO. RS2012-450 (MATTHEWS) – This resolution approves an annual grant in the amount of $78,700 from the Tennessee Arts Commission to the Metropolitan arts commission. These funds will be used to make grants to well-established Tennessee nonprofit arts organizations. This grant consists of $54,200 in state funds and $24,500 in federal funds. There is a required local match in the amount of $78,700 to be provided from the Metro arts commission budget. The term of the grant is from July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013. Return to Agenda
RESOLUTION NO. RS2012-451 (BENNETT & MATTHEWS) – This resolution approves a third amendment to a grant from the state board of probation and parole to the state trial courts to fund the Davidson County community corrections program. This program provides alternative punishments for non-violent offenders consisting of offender supervision, residential programs, and day reporting center programs. The goal of the grant is to divert felony offenders from the prison system by providing community supervision and treatment services. This amendment increases the amount of the grant by $21,637.25 for a new grant total of $4,295,480.75, with no local match required. The increased amount is to provide a staff pay increase and to cover the increased benefit costs. The grant expires June 30, 2013. Return to Agenda
RESOLUTION NO. RS2012-452 (WEINER & MATTHEWS) – This resolution approves an agreement between Vanderbilt University and the Metro board of health to participate as a member site for disease control tuberculosis epidemiologic consortium studies. Vanderbilt, through Duke University, is the recipient of a grant from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for this tuberculosis project. Vanderbilt is responsible for conducting clinical research under the study and desires to engage the health department to perform certain duties. The health department's responsibilities under this contract are to provide a health department employee devoted to this study full-time whose responsibilities will include conducting studies, enrolling patients, reporting data, and assisting in the development of presentations and publications of the study results. The health department will also provide Vanderbilt with office space and administrative/facilities support for Vanderbilt staff, including information systems, utilities, medical records management, patient registration, and data entry. Vanderbilt will reimburse Metro up to $172,628 for these services. Both Vanderbilt and Metro agree to maintain comprehensive general liability and professional liability insurance in the amount of $2 million per occurrence and $4 million in the aggregate, which is being provided by both parties in the form of self-insurance.
The term of this contract is through September 30, 2014, but may be extended by written agreement. The contract may be terminated by either party upon 30 days written notice. Return to Agenda
RESOLUTION NO. RS2012-453 (WEINER & MATTHEWS) - This resolution approves a seventh amendment to a grant from the U.S. environmental protection agency (EPA) to the Metropolitan board of health to achieve established ambient air quality standards. These funds are used to collect data and to monitor the ambient air concentrations for ozone, fine particulate matter, regional haze, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and mercury on behalf of the EPA. The amendment increases the grant amount by $321,000 for a new grant total of $1,509,000, and extends the term of the grant through September 30, 2013. Return to Agenda
RESOLUTION NO. RS2012-454 (BENNETT & MATTHEWS) – This resolution approves an agreement between the federal emergency management agency and the mayor's office of emergency management for access to the integrated public alert and warning system. Access to this national system will enable timely alerts and warnings to be delivered to Tennessee residents through the state's 24-hour warning point located at the Tennessee emergency management agency headquarters in Nashville. This agreement sets forth the terms and conditions for access to the system and interoperability via the internet. There is no cost to Metro to access the system. The term of the agreement is through the expiration of the system's authority to operate or three years, whichever comes first. Return to Agenda
RESOLUTION NO. RS2012-455 (MATTHEWS & GILMORE) – This resolution approves a grant in the amount of $5,900 from the state arts commission to the Metropolitan board of parks and recreation to supplement the Big Band dance program in Centennial Park. This program provides twelve free big band dances to the public. The parks department will use this funding for the purpose of continuing the dance program this year. There is a required local in-kind match of $5,900 to be provided by the parks department. Return to Agenda
RESOLUTION NO. RS2012-456 (GILMORE & MATTHEWS) – This resolution approves an application for a grant in the amount of $15,269.75 from the Tennessee state library and archives to the Nashville public library to purchase ereaders and iPads, along with associated material, for two pilot programs. The first pilot program would target children 12 and under to make ereader devices available for parents to check out that would be preloaded with children's material. The second pilot program would be to provide iPads for teenagers to check out for use in the young adult areas and to encourage teens to download material for ereaders. The funds would also be used to purchase five Apple computers to be used for staff training. There would be a required local match of $15,269.75. Return to Agenda
RESOLUTION NO. RS2012-457 (GILMORE) – This resolution authorizes the installation, construction, and maintenance of an aerial encroachment by 4 Tees, LLC, dba Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches, over the public right-of-way at 424 Church Street. The applicant has agreed to indemnify the Metropolitan Government from all claims in connection with the construction and maintenance of this wall-mounted building sign, and is required to post a certificate of public liability insurance with the Metropolitan clerk naming the Metropolitan Government as an insured party. This resolution has been approved by the planning commission. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-241 (DOMINY) – This ordinance amends the Metropolitan Code to require the annual contract for services between the Metropolitan Government and the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce ("chamber") for the Partnership 2020 economic development program to be approved by resolution of the council. The Partnership 2020 program (formerly Partnership 2000 and Partnership 2010) is a public-private partnership developed by the chamber whose purpose is to recruit new businesses to the greater Nashville area. Metro's appropriation for the Partnership 2020 program in recent years has been $300,000 annually. The chamber membership consists of businesses in ten counties, several of which provide some level of financial support for the Partnership 2020 program. According to data provided by the chamber, the program receives approximately $3.4 million annually in private funding. The chamber data further indicates that all other regional chamber/economic development entities plus regional governments combined provide $130,500 annually for the program.
Once the funds are appropriated by the council through the operating budget ordinance, Metro enters into a grant contract with the chamber outlining the business recruitment services to be performed. According to the grant contracts for the past several years, these services have included:
• Project management of 50 relocation and expansion projects in Davidson County, with 75% in targeted sectors and a minimum job creation goal of 1,000 new jobs
• Targeting 500 professional site location consultants with direct mail campaigns, marketing materials, and personal outreach
• Three outbound target market business recruitment missions and five inbound showcase Nashville events with face-to-face meetings with site consultants and corporate executives
This ordinance would require the grant contract with the chamber to be approved by the council by resolution receiving 21 affirmative votes. The contract would have to be approved by resolution annually before any funds are disbursed to the chamber. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-262 (MATTHEWS) – This ordinance amends the Metropolitan Code to establish a procedure for the use of honorary street signs. The code currently prohibits all types of honorary street signs. This ordinance would allow the council, by ordinance, to authorize and direct the department of public works to install honorary street signs beneath the official street name sign for any street identified on the official street and alley acceptance and maintenance map. Such honorary street signs would be brown in color with white lettering. No honorary street sign could be installed honoring a living person, and no more than five honorary street names could be approved by the council in each calendar year. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-265 (TYGARD & LANGSTER) – This ordinance names the bridge on Georgia Avenue over Richland Creek in honor of Audrey Baker, who passed away on November 15, 2011. Ms. Baker was a longtime resident of west Nashville, and was very active in the community. The Metro code provides that no Metropolitan Government building or structure can be named except by ordinance adopted by the council. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-266 (CLAIBORNE & TODD) – This ordinance amends the Metro code to eliminate the subsidized health insurance benefits for future members of council after they leave office. The code currently allows all elected officials participating in the comprehensive health care plan to continue participation in the plan after they leave office. If the elected official has served eight years, he/she may continue to participate in the plan by paying the Metro subsidized rate paid by employees, which is 25% of the premium. However, if the elected official has served less than eight years, he/she must pay 100% of the premium in order to continue participation in the plan.
This ordinance would eliminate the subsidized health insurance benefit for members of council after they leave office unless they have served 10 years. For those who do serve at least 10 years, which is the modified minimum vesting period under Ordinance No. BL2012-237 on third reading, such members would be eligible to continue participation in the medical plan under the same terms and conditions as retired Metropolitan Government employees hired after January 1, 2013, and at the contribution rates based upon years of service as provided in BL2012-237.
The ordinance grandfathers in all current members of council and those former members of council that already participate in the health insurance plan. All other members serving a first term beginning in 2015 could participate in the plan after leaving office if they pay 100% of the premium.
According to information provided by the department of human resources, the subsidized health insurance for former members of council costs Metro approximately $300,000 per year. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-267 (GILMORE, WESTERHOLM & MOORE) – This ordinance authorizes Nashville Downtown Partnership to install and maintain bike kiosks within the public right-of-way at fourteen locations in the downtown area. The bikes and kiosks are funded through the federal Communities Putting Prevention to Work grant administered by the health department. The kiosks will serve a total of 190 "B-cycle" bikes in the bikeshare program. B-cycle member riders will be able to swipe their card at the kiosk to unlock the bike. The kiosks will be powered with AC or solar electricity, where available.
This ordinance will allow the installation of 20 total kiosks at the following locations:
• Commerce Street and 2nd Avenue North
• Deaderick Street and 5th Avenue North
• 4th Avenue North and James Robertson Parkway
• Church Street between 5th Avenue North and 4th Avenue North
• 3rd Avenue North and Union Street
• Victory Way at the base of the Pedestrian Bridge
• 6th Avenue North and Union Street
• 11th Avenue South/12th Avenue South
• 16th Avenue South
• 9th Avenue South and Demonbreun Street
• Jefferson Street and Dr. D.B. Todd Boulevard
• Wedgewood Avenue and 21st Avenue South
• Hermitage Avenue and Middleton Street
• 3rd Avenue North and Symphony Place at the base of the Pedestrian Street Bridge
The Downtown Partnership has agreed to indemnify the Metropolitan Government from all claims in connection with the installation and maintenance of the kiosks, and is required to provide a $2 million certificate of public liability insurance naming the Metropolitan Government as an insured party. This ordinance has been approved by the planning commission. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NOS. BL2012-268 and BL2012-269 – These two ordinances authorize the acquisition of interests in property for Metro water services projects. The ordinances provide that the acquisition of additional easements or property rights for the same projects may be approved by resolution. These ordinances have been approved by the planning commission. Future amendments to this legislation may be approved by resolution.
Ordinance No. BL2012-268 (Potts, Matthews and Baker) authorizes the acquisition of property located at 6950 Charlotte Pike for the Davidson Branch equalization facility project. The estimated acquisition cost for the property is $100,000. Return to Agenda
Ordinance No. BL2012-269 (Potts, Evans and Matthews) authorizes the acquisition of a portion of property located at 826 Cammack Court for a reservoir and detention basin project. The council already authorized the acquisition of an easement for the project, but Metro water services has determined that it needs to acquire the property in fee simple. The estimated acquisition cost for the property is $56,500. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-270 (POTTS & MCGUIRE) – This ordinance accepts 868 feet of an 8" water main, 1,284 feet of an 8" sewer main, and two fire hydrants on property located at Duncanwood Drive, unnumbered. This ordinance has been approved by the planning commission. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-271 (POTTS, GILMORE & MATTHEWS) – This ordinance abandons 570 feet of existing 10 and 12-inch sewer lines and the corresponding easements for property located at 1515 Demonbreun Street at the corner of Demonbreun and Division Street. This abandonment is needed for the private development of the property. This ordinance has been approved by the planning commission. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-272 (TENPENNY) – This ordinance changes the name of a portion of Powell Avenue to "Old Powell Avenue". This street name change is being brought at the request of the emergency communications center to assist emergency service response by eliminating two separate segments of Powell Avenue.
This name change has been approved by the planning commission and the emergency communications district board. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-249 (A. DAVIS & WESTERHOLM) – This ordinance amends the zoning code to add "nano brewery" as a use permitted with conditions in the mixed-use and commercial zoning districts. Prior to 2008, the zoning code considered the manufacturing of alcoholic beverages to be a "medium manufacturing" use, which is only permitted in the industrial zoning districts. In September 2008, the zoning code was amended to create a new use called "microbrewery" to be permitted by right in the downtown, IR (industrial restrictive) and IG (industrial general) zoning districts. The code defines "microbrewery" as the production of beer in quantities not to exceed 5,000 barrels per month. The zoning code was subsequently amended to also allow microbreweries in the downtown area and the IWD (industrial warehouse/distribution) zoning district.
Several smaller craft breweries, known as "nano breweries", that brew less beer than the standard microbrewery have expressed interest in locating in certain commercial and mixed-use areas of the city, as opposed to the downtown or industrial areas. This ordinance would allow breweries producing less than 1,250 barrels per month to be located in the mixed-use and commercial (CL and CS) districts if the following conditions are satisfied:
1. No outdoor storage.
2. All beer production activities must be within completely enclosed structures.
3. Loading docks cannot be oriented toward the street or toward property zoned R, RS, RM, OR, MUN, or MUN-A. Where these districts abut all sides of the nano brewery, the loading dock must be screened by a solid wall or opaque fence.
4. Service doors facing a public street or a zoning district permitting residential use must also be screened by a solid wall or opaque fence.
5. All by-products or waste from the production of the beer must be disposed of off-site.
This ordinance has been approved by the planning commission. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-250 (GARRETT, BENNETT & OTHERS) – This ordinance, as amended, amends the Metropolitan Code to provide for the care of retired law enforcement animals. The police department currently uses dogs for the K-9 unit and horses for the mounted patrol unit to assist officers in the performance of their duties. In 2002, the council enacted an ordinance allowing the chief of police to donate horses and dogs deemed unfit for use by the Metropolitan Government and not suited for sale to the public "to other law enforcement agencies able to care for and use these animals and/or to not-for-profit organizations or individuals willing and able to care for and control these animals." A dog is often donated to the officer that partnered with the dog once the dog is no longer fit for service. The police department has continued to cover the veterinary expenses for these dogs after they are donated, but this policy is not set forth in the Metro code.
This ordinance provides that it is the policy of the Metropolitan Government that former police department K-9 unit dogs and mounted patrol horses be adequately cared and provided for following their service to the Metropolitan Government. The police department would be responsible for covering the veterinary and shoeing expenses up to $2,500 per year per animal for current and future "retired" police dogs and horses. Former K-9 unit dogs would be allowed (continued on next to temporarily board at the police department's canine facility at no cost to the active or retired police officer to whom the dog has been donated, provided notice is given to the facility at least 48 hours prior to the dog being boarded and adequate space is available at the facility. The division commander would have the authority to deny a boarding request for any dog with a contagious disease or a dog that is deemed by the division commander to be disruptive to the other dogs at the facility.
The ordinance also provides that the police department would be responsible for providing food for every former police dog or horse in the custody and control of an active or retired police officer at such officer's request for the life of the animal. All persons, organizations, or agencies accepting a donated animal from the police department must sign a general release form prepared by the department of law releasing the Metropolitan Government from any liability for the future actions of the animal and indemnifying the Metropolitan Government. Such a release form is currently being used by the police department.
Finally, the ordinance gives the officer that last worked with the animal at the time it is retired the right of first refusal to accept the animal. If the officer declines, the animal is to be offered to the person that donated the animal to Metro, if any, before the animal is given to someone else. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NOS. BL2012-253 through BL2012-255 – These three ordinances abandon sections of right-of-way no longer needed by the Metropolitan Government. These ordinances have been approved by the planning commission and traffic and parking commission. Consent of the affected property owners is included as an attachment to the ordinances.
Ordinance No. BL2012-253 (Blalock) abandons a triangular portion of Cherrywood Drive right-of-way adjacent to property located 476 McMurray Drive. This closure has been requested by St. Mina Coptic Church to make room for expansion. The ordinance retains all existing utility easements. Return to Agenda
Ordinance No. BL2012-254 (Bennett) abandons a portion of Saunders Court from Saunders Avenue southeastward to its terminus. This closure has been requested by Barge, Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon to facilitate a consolidation of lots. The ordinance retains all existing utility easements. Return to Agenda
Ordinance No. BL2012-255 (Gilmore) abandons a 613-foot strip of Franklin Street right-of-way adjacent to 400 Fifth Avenue South. This closure has been requested by Barge, Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon. All easements are being retained. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-256 (BEDNE, GILMORE & MATTHEWS) – This ordinance authorizes the exchange of a Metro right-of-way easement for property on Culbertson Road next to Mill Creek for use by the department of parks and recreation. Sugar Valley G.P. and SAF Properties own 16.2-acres of property that they are interested in transferring to Metro in exchange for a 0.05-acre right-of-way easement to be used as part of the proposed extension of Blake Drive.
This property exchange has been approved by the parks board and the planning commission. Future amendments to this ordinance may be approved by resolution. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-257 (MATTHEWS & JERNIGAN) – This ordinance amends the stormwater provisions in the Metro code to allow existing commercial or industrial facilities within the floodway of the Cumberland River to be modified or enlarged. In December 2010, the council enacted an ordinance to prohibit development from having an adverse impact as it relates to flooding, which included a prohibition on the construction of any new structure within the floodway. A structure that is already located in the floodway may be repaired in the event of a casualty loss up to fifty percent of the appraised value of the property.
The code was subsequently amended to give the stormwater division of Metro water services the ability to allow the construction of certain types of structures within the floodway as long as the structure is designed and constructed so as to have no adverse impact on other properties along the same waterway and will not result in a rise in flood elevation. The structures for which a variance may be granted include surface parking lots, temporary structures less than 100 square feet in size that are not used as a dwelling unit, athletic facilities, water-related features (such as bridges, wharfs, docks, and boat ramps), and water/sewer infrastructure.
This ordinance would allow an existing building or structure located within the floodway of the Cumberland River to be modified or enlarged so long as such building or structure was in active commercial or industrial use as of July 1, 2012, and modification of the building would have no adverse impact on downstream properties. The MWS stormwater division will have the authority to determine whether a proposed structure will have an adverse impact or not, which decision may be appealed to the stormwater management committee. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-258 (GILMORE & POTTS) – This ordinance abandons approximately 265 feet of existing 10-inch sewer line and 135 feet of 12-inch sewer line, and authorizes the acquisition of an easement for 307 feet of a new 12-inch sewer line for property located at 615 Nestor Street needed for a Metro water services project. This ordinance has been approved by the planning commission. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-259 (JERNIGAN & POTTS) – This ordinance abandons a Metro water services pumping station and the associated easement located at 801 Stoner Mill Lane. This pumping station is no longer being used by Metro water services. The abandonment has been requested by the property owner. This ordinance has been approved by the planning commission. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-260 (JERNIGAN, MATTHEWS & POTTS) – This ordinance authorizes the acquisition of utility easements for properties located at 3009 Darrington Road and Chandler Road, unnumbered. These easements are needed to construct a 6-inch water line as a result of the Hidden Hills Reservoir being taken out of service. The estimated total cost for these easement acquisitions is $20,000, which is to be paid from the water and sewer extension and replacement fund. The acquisition of additional easements for this same project may be approved by resolution.
This ordinance has been approved by the planning commission. Return to Agenda
ORDINANCE NO. BL2012-261 (EVANS, WEINER & GILMORE) – This ordinance amends or deletes a number of outdated code provisions that are either no longer enforced or are not consistent with current laws and practices. The idea behind this ordinance is to acknowledge the fiftieth anniversary of Metro by drawing attention to some of these anachronistic code provisions. The ordinance would make the following modifications to the code:
• Clean up some outdated language pertaining to the Metro jail and workhouse to clarify that the sheriff determines the personnel needs of the jail. The ordinance also deletes provisions pertaining to the refusal of prisoners to work, which are not consistent with state law.
• Re-writes the "school mothers' patrol" ordinance. First, it reflects the name that has been assigned to the division for many years, which is the school crossing guard division. An amendment to the Charter formally renaming the division will be on the November 2012 ballot. Second, it deletes the outdated job requirements, such as a letter of reference requirement from a minister and the 50-year-old age limitation.
• Deletes the licensing requirements for "motion picture projectionists". The Code currently provides that the board of electrical examiners is supposed to be licensing the operators of movie projectors, though this has not been done in years.
• Deletes the inspection and permitting requirements for "coin-operated or self-service dry cleaning establishments".
• Deletes the requirement that billiard rooms close at midnight.
• Deletes the Code licensing provisions for charitable solicitors. Metro was enjoined from enforcing this ordinance over a decade ago because it was found to be unconstitutional. Keeping it in the Code has caused much confusion over the years.
• Deletes the provisions governing "nursing, convalescent and old age homes". Such establishments are now regulated by state law, as well as the fire and building code.
• Deletes the requirement that Metro post signs within "public conveyances" alerting the public that spitting is illegal.
• Deletes an ordinance prohibiting throwing "stones or other missiles likely to cause breakage of windows of glass or the destruction of property". Such activity is already prohibited by other trespass and vandalism laws.
• Deletes the antiquated definition of "trackless trolley coach". This is defined as "every motor vehicle which is propelled by electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires but not operated upon rails."
• Amends the Code provisions pertaining to attire within Metro parks. The Code currently prohibits "appearing in bathing costume or any other than ordinary attire" unless at a swimming pool. This ordinance would provide that no person "shall bathe, wade or swim, or appear in any such area unless covered with a bathing suit which must be kept in place at all times, and appropriate public park attire must be worn outside of such areas."
• Deletes the requirement that sidewalks in the downtown area be constructed so as to accommodate flag poles for use on "patriotic and other special occasions". Current federal ADA requirements would not allow flag poles to be in the sidewalk.
• Eliminates the Code provision prohibiting dragging timber "on the public square" or on any street in the USD. This law has been on the books since at least 1917. The penalty at the time was one dollar per offense.
• Deletes the provisions pertaining to the old curb market that was located on what is now Public Square Park. These code provisions date back at least to the 1930's. The use of this property was restricted to "bona fide farmers and growers" including those selling live poultry.
• Amends the Code to clarify that residents can perform "work or labor" on their own property on Sunday. The law would still restrict contractors from working on Sunday without permission of the Codes department. Return to Agenda


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Whether you call us your technical writing assistant, copywriter, rewriter, document reviewer, messaging consultant, editor, grammar checker, or proofreader, it comes down to this. You've got something to write, and it's important that it's the best it can be. Let us help.


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I've been trying to write an email to a friend who has been struggling with similar issues as me. Try as I might, it continues to come out wrong. Rather, it doesn't come out at all. The words are stuck in my head and never make it down to my fingers.
I want to tell her that everything will be okay. Someday. Not now. Not tomorrow. But someday. We just need to keep plugging along and have hope. Because, really, hope's all we've got. But hope is certainly something worth living for. And with our hope in hand, we know that there will be sunny afternoons and mornings; laughter in the evenings; and peace in our heads when we lie in bed late at night. Just not now. But in a little while. Someday. Maybe soon.
I want to tell her that there is such beauty in the world. No matter how dark our minds are. No matter scary the outside world may seem with all of those people who keep moving, moving, moving and talking, talking, talking until it's just a cacophony of sound and color. No matter how much we want to put our hands over our ears, close our eyes, and rock back and forth. There is such beauty. There's snow on the ground right now. And come spring, that air that's the perfect temperature will envelop us, and we'll flop onto the damp grass. And it will be lovely in that moment. It will. Because there is such beauty, and it's worth sticking around to see.
I want to tell her that there is so much love, in spite of everything. That there are too many people to hold close. Too many cats to pet, too many dogs to run with. That just because we're messed up doesn't mean that we're unlovable. That we aren't loved despite our differences. We're loved because of them. That our parents would cut off all of their limbs before loosing us, because they love us so much. We could lose everything, and there would still be that love. That love will never, never, never go away. No matter how much everything collapses. It's worth slamming back against the darkness for all of those people. Hanging on so that we can love them back. And holding each other up with love. That love matters more than anything else.
I want her to know that our demons are only demons and not anything more. Sure, they are a part of us. And perhaps they always will be. But they don't define us. We're ourselves when we've pushed the demons into hiding. When we're cheerful and rosy. The dark thoughts and electric jolts of anxiety don't outshine our ability to read or write. Sometimes we can't get out of bed. Sometimes we can't move or speak or open our eyes. Sometimes we can't do a whole slew of other things. But we can still give awesome hugs. And we can still get out of bed or move or speak or open our eyes. It just happens a little later. A little later on. They're only demons after all and not our whole selves. We're too good for that.
I want her to know that there is some sort of romance in the life that we lead. That the power to feel emotions more intensely than others can be a good thing. Such a good and wondrous thing. That the picture of the postcard that I saved from PostSecret many months ago is entirely true. We are a special breed. I firmly believe that if we can feel darkness as deeply as we do, then our happiness can also outshine "normalcy." We have these moments when we feel a burst of joy, right where that ball of anxiety is normally lodged, and we just know that maybe a few of those scarier times when we thought that nothing could ever be better were worth it.
It is too easy to feel alone. But we never are. We're standing at the center of a spider-web. That little dot at the center. And all the strands that stick out from that dot to form the first band is our family. And the next, our friends. And after that, our doctors. All the way out until we've covered every piece of grass from every place we've loved and every grain of sand from every beach upon which we've stood. Until it's all there. Surrounding us and twinkling with dew. And it is lovely, and we aren't alone any longer. But when the sun comes up and the dew dries, it's harder to see, but it's still there. We just have to learn to trust it.
I want her to know that she isn't lost. We're right where we're supposed to be. We're loved and supported, even when we can't feel it. We have our spider-webs and our beauty and our gifts and ourselves and it's never too late for things to start being right. We're not lost if we're doing everything we can to push our demons into hiding. Besides, it's impossible to be lost when you're loved.
I want her to know that she is understood. That there are so many people reaching out their hands to us, asking to help, asking us to let them in, asking to relieve some of the pain. We just have to learn to let them. We have to hold out our arms and ask for help, cry out for it, when the darkness threatens to swallow us whole. They know that we need help. Sometimes, we just have to learn to better ask for it.
Most of all, I want her to know that I care. That even if she doesn't think that anyone else does (And they do, oh I promise her that they do.), I care. I am here. I am here with an open laptop and phone. I am here waiting to listen. To understand. To crack horrible, terrible, horrendous jokes. To listen when she cries. To try to offer some sort of advice. I am here. Ready. Waiting. Even at three a.m. I am here. And I care. Just like everyone else in her spider web. And I am holding out my arms, begging for her to let me in when she needs it.
[Insert name here], I am here. And I love you.


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Six Reasons to Love Linux
If you're considering making a switching from a Windows or Mac operating system to Linux, there is no reason you shouldn't go ahead and try. I previously suggested some disadvantages to Linux, but there are plenty of advantages to consider as well. No matter what your opinion on the matter, there is no substitute for just giving it a shot and seeing how it works out for you. You might find that any cons are quickly outweighed by the pros. Everyone will adjust at a different pace, and you may find Linux to be a better choice for your personal computing needs. Many people wonder why they didn't begin using Linux sooner. Here are some of the advantages of Linux over Windows or Mac.
The most clear benefit of Linux is that it costs you absolutely nothing to install or use. Windows or Mac operating systems will cost hundreds of dollars. You can install Linux on any computer at anytime, anywhere. After you have paid for Windows or Mac, you will be restricted on distributing it or be unable to use it more than once.
Open Source Code
Linux users have access to the source code, and as a result they can alter it in any way they see fit. Linux is very customizable, and it makes it easy to improve and develop. There are multitudes of patches available from other users. A great advantage to the open source code is that if you're interested in learned about operating systems, Linux will give you some hands-on experience.
Linux users also have thousands of programs to choose from. There are comparable programs for all Windows and Mac software with all of the same functions, and they are free and open source also. There are databases filled with choices for you to explore. You won't be restricted to Word, for example; you'll have a plethora of word processing options.
Linux users will experience fewer frustrating system crashes and reboots. You can realistically leave your computer on almost indefinitely and not experience a decrease in performance speed. Multiple processes and programs can run together with ease. A large network of users is better supported, also. You can even breathe new life into your old machines because outdated computers will run better on Linux than Windows or Mac.
There are fewer security threats or viruses to deal with on Linux. Linux is very secure because there are tons of walls for a virus to have to get through, and there are great security features, like the requirement to enter your password before a download begins. There are fewer existing viruses for Linux because it is not as widely used an operating system as Windows or Mac. When there is a virus, Windows and Mac users have a to wait a long time for developers to come up with a solution, while Linux users will instantly begin creating and distributing patches to fix the problem.
A generally tight-knit and vast community of Linux users exists on the web. If you need any help using Linux, there are tons of chat rooms and messages boards to take advantage of. Log on and you can quickly find a Linux enthusiast to assist you. It is the dedicated community that keeps Linux consistently growing and evolving.
Terry Ford created this article and edited the content for quality using Grammarly grammar checker. If your daily activities require the highest quality of writing a grammar tool is a must have. Writers, executives, students and web professionals around the globe rely on it for great results.


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Last Day on Earth: Survival Update 1.5.3
This week, we saw an update for Last Day on Earth, a popular mobile game for iOS and Android. In Last Day on Earth, players can find themselves building bases, fighting zombies and exploring for loot and resources.
The game is currently still in it's beta/early access phase, however we're constantly seeing updates like this one that makes Last Day on Earth much more polished. Below, we'll inform you on what came out with this update.
You can follow Last Day on Earth on Facebook to get updates as soon as they come out along with other news from developers.
Last Day on Earth: Free Coins & Cash
Want free coins in Last Day on Earth? If you're an Android or iOS User, you can use AppKarma. AppKarma pays you in points to play free games on your mobile phone. You can then exchange these points for Cash, Steam, Xbox Gift Cards or iTunes & Google Play cards to get free Last Day on Earth Coins or other cash! By using the link above, you will also get 500 Bonus Points just for signing up! You can also use our refferer code 'PwrDown' to get 500 points in-app.
Knocking down neighbours walls
Finally! A new update from Kefir Games who make Last Day on Earth allows us to knock down our neighbours walls. Previously when you went to visit one of your neighbours on the map, it was impossible to actually enter their base. You could only loot stuff on the outside such as rain collectors and tanning racks.
Previously, the only way to enter a base was with C4, however in a video posted by Kefir Games on YouTube, it shows that players can now enter bases with just a hatchet. This is a major improvement and I can't wait to see what loot lies inside!
Bunker Alfa Improvements
By popular request, developers of Last Day on Earth: Survival have further optimised Bunker Alfa. The area is very intensive on your mobile device, and it seems blocked off to less powerful mobiles.
I've received quite a few comments and messages personally about users seeing a "Not enough power" screen when trying to enter the Bunker after inputting the vault code. It seems that if you're receiving this message, it means your mobile device isn't powerful enough to enter the Bunker. It's unknown whether this update will help resolve this issue.
However if not, I'm sure you'll be able to enter Bunker Alfa in future updates as more optimisations come to Last Day on Earth.
Scam attempts
As well as receiving news on updates, Last Day on Earth developers sent us a warning. Apparently scammers are already beginning to pop up, offering resources and gold for real money.
You should be careful when addressing these people. There is no way of trading in Last Day on Earth currently, so every attempt by these people could be a scam. You will be putting yourself at risk of loosing money and you can't hold Last Day on Earth developers responsible.


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The director of transportation may secure suitable buildings for housing, storing, caring for, and keeping in repair, automobiles, motor trucks, road machinery, and other equipment owned by the department of transportation. Such buildings may be secured by purchase or lease or by the purchase of a suitable site and the erection thereon of suitable buildings. The director may equip such buildings with the necessary tools and equipment for the care and repair of such automobiles, trucks, machinery, and other equipment. The expense incurred by the director in providing such sites and buildings, and storing, housing, caring for, and repairing such automobiles, trucks, machinery, and equipment, shall be paid from any available funds of the department.
Effective Date: 09-28-1973 .


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You may have never heard of CrossRoads, but their MylarOne line-up of ear canal headphones has been well received at headphone forums as capable of offering good audio quality at a reasonable price level. As far as I know, their products are not sold in Europe, at least not in traditional outlets. However you can get them from Jaben.net (thanks to Uncle Wilson who has kindly supplied this review unit).
With the new MylarOne Quattro, Crossroads is aiming to bring a pair of reasonably priced customisable headphone to the masses. The Quattro features interchangeable "tuning plate" screw-on bass ports, that allows the listener to customise the desired sound to their liking. At US$88 inc. shipping, the Quattro is one of the cheapest in-ear headphones that allows the listener to option to do so, and significantly undercuts its competitors by a wide margin (price wise).
Specifications and stuff:
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 22 kHz
Sensitivity: 95 dB at 1 kHz
Nominal impedance: 16 ohms
Transducer: 7mm moving coil dynamic
Cable length: 1.25 meters
The Quattro arrives in a small and simple card box packaging that isn't a pain to open. Bundled inside includes four pairs of single flange silicon ear sleeves, a pair of dual flange silicon ear sleeves, an airplane stereo adapter, a shirt clip and a small pouch. You also get three pairs of the screw on bass ports labelled with '1', '2' and '3'.
The build quality of the Quattro is actually pretty good. The Quattro itself seems to be made of anodized aluminium and is very tiny. It is actually the tiniest IEM I ever held. The housing features a clinder design and holds a small 7mm moving coil dynamic transducer. The silicon sleeves are soft and supple, and reminds me a lot of the Klipsch ear gels (easily the most comfortable ear sleeves I have worn). Like the Radiopaq, there is no mesh or filters on the nozzles to prevent dirt and ear wax from entering. I am guessing that it features a similar design to the Radiopaq which features a built-in protection at the driver level. Overall, I have no complains about the build quality of the Quattro earpiece itself.
Unfortunately the cable appears to suffer from slight microphonics. CrossRoads cleverly supplied a shirt clip (already clipped to the cable), which can help with reducing the amount of microphonics. Wearing the Quattro over the ear will also help a lot. A Y-slider is included which you can also use to help reduce the microphonics. On the upside the cable is soft and do not kink as easily as the Radiopaqs or tangle much. It terminates at a 3.5mm headphone jack that is angled slightly (comparable to the Klipsch Image X10).
Because of the size and lightweight-ness, the Quattro is very comfortable on my ears. They feature a deep insertion design that allows for greater isolation in comparison to other headphones like the Sennheiser IE 8. Unfortunately my ear canals are quite shallow so the Quattro sticks out quite a bit more than say, IEMs that features a flushed design. This makes sleeping with it almost impossible. Still people with deep ear canals may find the Quattro to be ideal for sleeping, but mileage my vary.
Now, on to the important bit: the sound quality! Based on other owners experience I subjected the Quattro to 100 hours of intense burn-in. The three pairs of bass ports does affect the frequency response by quite a bit. Port 1 offers the heaviest bass response, with port 2 in between and port 3 offering the lightest.
Unfortunately before doing my final testing, one of my part 3 port suffered a mishap when the adhesive that held a cover that closes the port's vent loosened and fell out, trapped inside the Quattro itself. I was able to remove it, damaging the cover in the process. This does mean I am unable to accurately judge the performance of port 3 at this stage of burn-in. However based on previous tests (before the cover fell out), I found that that port 3 offered a very bass light sound, with greater treble detail at the expense of soundstaging.
Personally I found that the bass response with port 1 to be too much. The treble quality doesn't seem to be affected much, but they are slightly more recessed than port 2. Soundstaging wise, they are the widest and has an airy sound. Instrumental separation could be better, but they don't sound congested. They have a nice warm sound, but so does port 2 and 3. Port 1 also happens to isolate the less due to the vent, though not by much.
Port 2 is my favourite port to use with the Quattro. They offer a bit less bass than port 1, whilst not changing the overall warm sound signature much. The soundstage narrows a bit, but is still wide to enjoy classical music. The clarity is actually pretty amazing with port 2, with good amount of transparency. Mids are detailed and lush, with good but slightly recessed vocals. The treble isn't too bad either and I detected no apparent sibilance. Bass impact is punchy, but without the overwhelming quantity of the first port, and certainly no where near the speed, tightness and impact of the IE 8.
The Quattro is any interesting product. The price range puts it up against plenty of established brands and products, including Klipsch (with their new Image S4), Sennheiser CX 95, Denon AH-C551 and the Radiopaqs. The warm and fun sound will almost certainly please many people, but the sound quality isn't nearly as good as the CX 95, Radiopaq Jazz or the discounted Klipsch Custom 2. However if you want a customisable in-ear headphone without the large price tag, the Quattro comes highly recommended.
The CrossRoad MylarOne Quattro is available for US$88 with free worldwide shipping from Jaben.net


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Everything is handled through a CDARS® Network member of your choice. The thousands of financial institutions that can offer CDARS are members of a unique network. When you place a large deposit with a CDARS Network member, that institution uses the CDARS service to place your funds into CDs issued by other members of the CDARS Network.
This occurs in increments below the standard FDIC insurance maximum ($250,000) so that both principal and interest are eligible for FDIC insurance. By working directly with just one institution, you can receive coverage from many. And, you receive just one regular, consolidated account statement.
When you're ready to take advantage of CDARS, here's what happens:
For general information, please check our FAQs page.
The CDARS service has been designed to satisfy the FDIC's requirements for pass-through deposit insurance coverage.
If a depositor is subject to restrictions with respect to the placement of funds in depository institutions, it is the depositor's responsibility to determine whether the placement of its funds through CDARS satisfies those restrictions.
When deposited funds are exchanged on a dollar-for-dollar basis with other banks in the CDARS Network, the relationship institution can use the full amount of a deposit placed through CDARS for local lending, satisfying some depositors' local investment goals or mandates. Alternatively, with a depositor's consent, the relationship institution may choose to receive fee income instead of deposits from other participating institutions. Under these circumstances, deposited funds would not be available for local lending.
Placement of funds through the CDARS service is subject to the terms, conditions, and disclosures in the service agreements, including the Deposit Placement Agreement ("DPA"). Limits apply. Although funds are placed at destination banks in amounts that do not exceed the FDIC standard maximum deposit insurance amount ("SMDIA"), a depositor's balances at the relationship institution that places the funds may exceed the SMDIA (e.g., before CDARS settlement for a deposit or after CDARS settlement for a withdrawal) or be ineligible for FDIC insurance (if the relationship institution is not a bank). As stated in the DPA, the depositor is responsible for making any necessary arrangements to protect such balances consistent with applicable law. If the depositor is subject to restrictions on placement of its funds, the depositor is responsible for determining whether its use of CDARS satisfies those restrictions. CDARS, ICS, and Insured Cash Sweep are registered service marks of Promontory Interfinancial Network, LLC.
© 2020 Promontory Interfinancial Network, LLC | Patents


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With full-fibre infrastructure throughout the city, Nottingham can start taking advantage of some of the UK's fastest internet speeds.
Interested in connecting your location?
To check if you are within reach of our network, and more details on our service providers, click the link below to use our location checker.


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Please update your links to my new website/blog located at
Thank you! 🙂
Please update your links to my new website/blog located at
Thank you! 🙂
They are YOUNG. They are HAPPY. Their DREAM of being together is in full swing.
I met Amanda last October when she was modeling for an event I was shooting at. I have so much fun getting to know the models & clients I get to work with. Watching Amanda fall in love with Cody and make some of the biggest decisions of her life with him has been EXHILARATING.
I'm so HAPPY for these two beautiful, fearless & joyful individuals.
Get ready to drool a little & possibly explode into a little jealous fit if you haven't found the "love of your life" just yet.
You see what I mean. Are you feeling the love between them?
Lovely and Hot. What a combination.
I dare you to click on this next b&w close up…it's worth the exercise.
Love is so cool. So cool!
My all time favorite photograph of my sweetie of a friend…Amanda.
Please click on it to enlarge.
Murrieta Engagement Photographer
This REAL "Couple in Love" session is brought to you from the 1st Year Anniversary LA Shoot This event on held on 10/17/10
If you are a photographer who'd like to attend a future event sometime please contact Joelle Leder.
"I live on good soup, not on fine words."
This is my chunky version of corn chowder. One I'd have to make 10 more times in order to get the exact measurements on if I was to write up the recipe. I seriously just put a little of this and some of that…along with a ton of corn and ALWAYS lots of finely chopped red pepper. If you want a yummy recipe for this type of soup here is one that's tried & true.
Corn Chowder by Tyler Florence
If you want to try a great one at your local restaurant I love the one that Lucille's Smokehouse makes. They serve it with warm buttery biscuits…I know your mouth is watering for some right about now!
The Broncos are undefeated and only have a few games left in the season. The most recent game was a muddy mess, but it only added to their energy level!
The final score of that game was 47-13.
"There is an eagle in me that wants to soar, and there is a hippopotamus in me that wants to wallow in the mud."
~Carl Sandburg
Limited dates available so please contact me at email@example.com to book your family session this November! I will travel throughout the Inland Empire, Riverside, Los Angeles, Orange County & San Diego areas. 🙂
(please click to enlarge)
by me
"colored leaves, cider, soft scarfs & warm boots,
sweet pies, bonfires, cool breezes & rustic fruits
divine little treasures of Autumn's generous roots"


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Experience a daytime intro to Kundalini Yoga series, with emphasis on a gentle format. Each class will include warmups, stretches, breath practice, a kundalini yoga kriya, deep relaxation, and meditation. Modifications are offered to help you participate as fully as possible. Pillows, blankets, and chairs are available. Come on your own, or invite a friend or family member to join you for this supported practice of yoga and meditation.
Instructor Simrat Kaur has twenty years of experience teaching Kundalini Yoga and Meditation and has pursued an interest in warm ups, stretches and approaches that allow a wide range of people to gain the benefits of this simple, powerful yoga.
Clearance from your health care professional is always recommended before beginning any new exercise program.
Call her at (541) 357-3667 to sign up and to learn more about it.


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Microsoft's New Keyboard Comes with a Hidden Fingerprint Reader
Microsoft has unveiled its successor to the Surface Keyboard — a new 'Modern Keyboard' which comes with a fingerprint scanner and although it comes with Bluetooth Smart tech, it has the ability to use a cable to make the connection wired.
The Fingerprint sensor on the new keyboard by Microsoft has been embedded in such a way that it stays hidden as it appears ' to be any other key' and functions like one too.
Microsoft's Modern Keyboard with Fingerprint ID will be available for $129.99 and will work with Windows 10.
"We iterated relentlessly to improve each layer, making sure they came together to create a flawless typing experience that felt like any other key." the company stated.
The keyboard comes with an aluminium top case as the company has embedded the fingerprint sensor within the Windows key on the right-hand side of the keyboard — below the 'Enter' and 'Shift' keys.
Since the keyboard can work both with and without wires, it'll appeal to a wider audience as it can accommodate needs of people in accordance with their preference — a wired connection or wireless.
"We optimized the Bluetooth pairing experience, enabling automatic pairing when you connect the cable at first OOBE," the company adds to the product description.
The Modern Keyboard comes in a silver-grayish finish and uses rechargeable batteries to support its power needs.
It works with any device supporting Bluetooth 4.0 or higher — be it a PC running Windows 8 or 10, a Windows 10 or Android phone and macOS. The Windows 10 Surface Studio, Pro and laptop devices are also supported by the keyboard.
Alongside the Modern Keyboard, Microsoft has also launched the Modern Mouse ($49.99), which doesn't have anything as unique as a fingerprint sensor, but is designed to work seamlessly with Windows as well as lend aesthetical value to your workstation and comfort to the user's hand.
The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.


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To all the awesome bloggers and readers who have followed me and read, liked and commented on my posts, THANK YOU!!!! I have added a new site titled "Confessions of a Novice Horsewoman" which will become a primary site for … Continue reading
Posted in Being human, Horses, Life Mission, Life Purpose Tagged Horses, Transitions 3 Comments
Thank You To Those Who Have Gone Before
It's Halloween. All Hallows Eve. Samhain. And as the veil thins this night, I sit here in the Georgia woods and give thanks to all those who have gone before. Here, in these Appalachian Mountains, where I walked on this … Continue reading
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"Now It Begins, Now It Starts"
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"Try To Remember The Kind Of September"….
….And on the eve of my birthday, I can't ever remember the kind of September I just had 🙂 Just when I thought that the inner journey and strengthening Year of 2014 was about to let up on the pressure … Continue reading
Posted in Horses, Personal Growth, Spritual Evolvement Tagged Appaloosas, Cats, Gratitude, Horses, Life Struggles, Love 6 Comments
A "Trip" To The Stars
Among the kaleidoscope of experiences and emotions experienced on our "Literature and The Landscape of the Horse" retreat, there is one image that hovers just outside my conscious mind as I go through the every day tasks and demands upon … Continue reading


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Having fabricated metal shelves for more than 20 years, we offer you the option of choosing among our standard shelves or getting new ones customized per your specifications.
Here at HMR, we treat custom metal fabrication as an art form. Our tested shelving specialists approach each design with a meticulous eye and attention to detail. Whatever the design challenge may be, whether you're looking for a basic storage solution or something for your warehouse shelving needs, HMR can build and design the ideal heavy-duty metal shelving system for all kinds of industry or application.
Visit our branches for inquiries today.


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Every Thursday afternoon, I'll post a video that I find funny. Mind you, I'm pretty easily amused, so don't expect these videos to be too thought-provoking.
This week's comes from the FAIL Blog. I find FAILs really funny...anything that makes me feel less clumsy, stupid, or weird is golden in my book.
More Video Picks of the Week:


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Tenneco Automotive Inc. (ticker: TEN, exchange: New York Stock Exchange) News Release
March 30, 2010
Lake Forest, Illinois, March 30, 2010 – Tenneco Inc. (NYSE: TEN) announced today that the company has modified its U.S. trade accounts receivable securitization program to extend the revolving terms of the program to March 25, 2011, add an additional bank investor and increase the available financing under the facility by $10 million to a total of $110 million.
In addition, as permitted under the revised first priority facility, the company has added a second priority facility, which provides up to an additional $40 million of financing against accounts receivable generated in the U.S. and Canada that would otherwise be ineligible under the first priority facility. The new second priority facility, which also expires on March 25, 2011, is subordinated to the existing securitization facility. Tenneco's accounts receivable securitization programs, both in North America and Europe, provide the company with financing at costs that are generally favorable to alternative sources of financing and allow the company to reduce borrowings under its revolving credit agreements.
Under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (FAS) No. 166, "Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets - an amendment to ASC Topic 860," which becomes effective for Tenneco in the quarter ending March 31, 2010, Tenneco's accounts receivable securitization programs in North America and Europe must be accounted for as secured borrowings. Under the previous guidance of ASC Topic 860 (FAS 140), these programs were accounted for as sale transactions and disclosed in the footnotes to the company's financial statements.
The impact of the new accounting rules on the company's consolidated financial statements will be to increase both receivables and short-term debt on its balance sheet and to decrease the loss on sale of receivables and increase interest expense on its income statement. In addition, under the new accounting rules, changes in the funding levels provided by the accounts receivable securitization programs will be reflected as a change in short-term debt and included in net cash provided by financing activities on the company's cash flow statement rather than reflected as a change in receivables and included in net cash provided by operating activities as under the previous guidance. Had FAS 166 been in effect in 2009, reported receivables and short-term debt would both have been $137 million higher as of December 31, 2009 and the loss on sale of receivables would have been $9 million lower, offset by a $9 million increase to interest expense in 2009.
The higher reported levels of debt and interest expense resulting from the change in accounting guidance will have no effect on Tenneco's debt covenant ratios because the definitions of those ratios in the company's debt agreements are based on U.S GAAP in effect on the date the agreements were executed, which preceded the effective date of FAS 166.
Tenneco is a $4.6 billion manufacturing company with headquarters in Lake Forest, Illinois and approximately 21,000 employees worldwide. Tenneco is one of the world's largest designers, manufacturers and marketers of emission control and ride control products and systems for the automotive original equipment market and the aftermarket. Tenneco markets its products principally under the Monroe®, Walker®, Gillet™ and Clevite®Elastomer brand names.
Linae Golla
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The use of boots as a fashion accessory can be traced back to as early as 19th or early 20th century when women started wearing the Russian boots to cover their ankles and calves as hemlines become shorter. But they soon became less popular with the invention of cars when they were seen as being too bulky and uncomfortable. In the 1960s fashion boots were given another revival as new materials emerged and hemlines were rising even more. They became very popular in the 70s especially in the colder season and since then they have been an integral part of every woman's wardroble. They come in different styles from ankle to calf length to thigh high and can be used in the office, for casual or formal occasions. Ankle boots are perhaps the most popular of the boots available and most designers in the footwear business include them in their collections.
Zara offers affordable fashion and their products are stylish and well made. It is no wonder that Zara has fast achieved international success with their clothing, shoes and accessories for men, women and kids. Zara boots offer many choices in ankle boots from flat leather boots with straps to high heel ankle boots with studs or zips, suede leather wide heel ankle boots to high heel peep toe ankle boots.
Zara boots are an accessory which needs to be paired up with the right clothes to make an impact. They look great when worn with skinny jeans as your legs appear to be longer when the jeans are tucked into the ankle boots or rolled up to be just skimming the edge of the boots. You can wear the peep toe ankle boots in a neutral color with denim jeans and a loose top for a cool effect. Ankle boots can also be worn with trousers but avoid wearing cropped pants or tights with ankle boots as this will give the effect of having shorter legs.
You can also pair your Zara boots with a short pencil skirt for a more formal look or if you want to wear them on an evening out try the high heeled version in a neutral color with a floral dress to complete a cute summery look. You can also try the black colored ankle boots with high heels to add character to any outfit. Another very popular look is the shorts and ankle boots combination. Ankle boots are no longer just a winter accessory, they can be worn with many outfits in all seasons.
Whatever length of heel you choose for your Zara boots make sure you are comfortable in them and they are not too long. If you are not comfortable you will not be able to carry off the style even if it is in fashion.
Zara boots can be purchased from online stores that stock Zara products. You will be able to get amazing discounts as compared to buying from a retail store and get a wider variety to choose from as well.
Get trendy and original Zara boots with mega discounts from https://www.tradesy.com/shoes/zara.


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Every night, Path of Life provides a hot meal, a clean bed, and safe shelter to 160 children, families, and individuals experiencing homelessness in Riverside County. Our Family and Community Shelter programs help get families off the street and into a place where they can access supportive services and begin restoring and rebuilding their lives.
Partner with us by becoming a sponsor. Your gift of just $500 goes directly to our shelters for food, linens, cleaning supplies and other immediate needs for a night. You can even choose the night you would like to sponsor or give for multiple nights. Sponsor a night in honor of a loved one or in celebration of an anniversary; sponsor a week for your 50th birthday, to mark your retirement, or to celebrate your new business. Sponsor because you want to directly impact those experiencing homelessness.