text:
USA TODAY Sports' Steve Gardner gives his tips on who fantasy football owners should and shouldn't put in their lineups this week. USA TODAY
OWINGS MILLS, Md. – With each burst of acceleration, Lamar Jackson has carried the Baltimore Ravens back to relevancy since taking over as starting quarterback three games ago.
The Ravens' defense has certainly played its part, holding opponents to an average of 211 yards and 18 points a game. And Jackson's heroics haven't come without contributions from his offensive teammates.
But the rookie has been central to Baltimore's success, directing an offense that has dominated time of possession by approximately 15 minutes per game.
But more importantly, he has infused the Ravens with optimism. Losers of three straight and the owners of a 4-5 record, Baltimore previously appeared bound for irrelevance but now stands as the AFC's sixth seed.
Coach John Harbaugh turned to Jackson with Joe Flacco sidelined by a hip injury, and the former Heisman Trophy winner has delivered. But there's no clarity on how Harbaugh will handle the potential controversy once the 11th-year veteran fully recovers.
Harbaugh said the 33-year-old Super Bowl XLVII MVP would ramp up his practice activity this week. But for now, the Ravens are operating as though Jackson will start against the Chiefs in Kansas City on Sunday.
But another kind of uncertainty also looms regarding Jackson.
There's no denying his talent. Jackson has speed and elusiveness that rival Michael Vick and Robert Griffin III. He's great in space, runs with good instincts and is hard to tackle. And offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg has orchestrated an attack that has made him effective despite passing skills that remain unrefined by NFL standards.
However, each run and subsequent tackle raise questions about his sustainability. NFL defenses almost always manage to catch up. So, what will happen once defenders figure out how to force him to remain in the pocket and rely on his arm? More importantly, how long can Jackson's 6-foot-2, 212-pound frame withstand the hits he has subjected himself to?
The Ravens haven't had to worry about the first question, because Cincinnati, Oakland and Atlanta's defenses couldn't contain Jackson. His average of 88 rushing yards on 18 attempts per contest have overshadowed the fact that he has thrown for only 151 yards per game on 21.7 pass attempts.
Baltimore already suffered a scare last week when Jackson sustained a blow to the head at the end of a run and had to be checked for a concussion. He missed a series but returned to finish the game.
The rate at which the Ravens have used Jackson as a runner has alarmed some. After Jackson gashed his team for 26 carries and 119 yards in his starting debut, Bengals coach Marvin Lewis cautioned, "Quarterbacks don't run forever in the NFL. Sooner or later, they get hurt, and they don't run the same."
During a recent television appearance, Vick predicted that Jackson could break his all-time rushing record for quarterbacks. But he also said to "proceed with caution."
Whether they want to admit it or not, the Ravens are in a precarious position. Jackson's abilities have given them a chance to end a three-year playoff drought. But this approach also threatens his safety and their long-term investment.
"I guess you just juggle it. You balance it," Harbaugh said on Wednesday. "We're trying to win games and make plays and be good for the long haul. You never want any player to get hurt, but it does happen. I think (with) your quarterback, that's something that you have to keep in mind."
Harbaugh explained that Mornhinweg and quarterbacks coach James Urban have a list of points of emphasis they preach to Jackson, including better decision-making and avoiding subjecting himself to unnecessary risks. But they also don't want to squelch his instincts.
"Absolutely – that's what you never want to do," Harbaugh said. "You never want to tell – these guys are just tremendously talented, gifted guys. To get to this level and to play at this level is such an accomplishment. … You don't want to stifle their creativity either. But the fundamentally sound way is always the way that we're striving for."
But thus far, the Ravens have given Jackson a limited passing workload. Each game Mornhinweg calls a number of plays that give him the option to pass or run, a popular trend throughout the league.
At times, Jackson has appeared to give up on pass plays too soon. Eventually, Jackson's coaches need to trust him more as a passer and keep him on a run-play pitch count.
A strong run game and the play-action passing attack is the best friend of a young quarterback.
During Griffin's rookie year in 2012, Washington's coaches used the threat of his running ability to draw defenders into the box and then struck downfield on long play-action passes. But despite the Redskins' efforts to protect him with more pocket passes, Griffin's aggressive nature as a runner got him into trouble, with his knee giving out – multiple ligaments rupturing – in a season-ending playoff loss.
Now serving as a backup in Baltimore, Griffin could serve as a cautionary tale. But Jackson said his conversations with Griffin don't include the plight of scrambling quarterbacks. And when on the field, he's not thinking about risk of injury.
"I just play ball," Jackson said. "I don't think about all that when I'm out there. It's just moving the ball, get positive possessions, don't get negative plays and stuff like that."
Jackson's evolution should eventually lead him toward improved balance while still maintaining his dual-threat capability. But for the good of the quarterback, the Ravens and their future together, the progress must ramp up sooner rather than later.
Follow Mike Jones on Twitter @ByMikeJones.


text:
Strictly Come Dancing's golden girl Ola Jordan is proving she knows a thing or two about Christmas stockings!
She's adding a touch of sparkle to Boux Avenue's festive campaign with this stunning set of pictures.
"Christmas is all about magic isn't it?" says Ola, whose Strictly partner EastEnders Sid Owen got voted off the TV series in October.
The Polish beauty has been dancing since the age of 10.
She joined Strictly Come Dancing with her husband James Jordan in 2006.
This is Ola's second lingerie campaign with Boux Avenue, which is the brainchild of Dragon's Den star Theo Paphitis.
Ola adds: "This is underwear to make you feel really special so the campaign this time is much sexier, with seductive underwear and flirty santa outfits – I'll definitely be showing a different side to my personality."

subset: commoncrawl


text:
|Cute cat pattern
|In progress...
|More new!
|We caught the train in the Botanic Gardens on the Harbour.
|Lolly took this!
|I took this! ;)
|Lolly says I must put the lizard photo in.
|Sleeping through the Australia Museum.
|Our luggage.
|Lolly at the airport.
|This is what your camera bag looks like if you have kids.
|Our garden from where I drink my coffee.
|Aunty J!
|View from the ferry...some bridge and opera house ;)
|Lolly and her "doggy bag"
|With our "new friend" on the front of the trolley.
|Blurry but cute. Just after waking up from pretend naps.
|Playing at the dining area. All restaurants should have a kid's section!!


text:
Famed mythologist Joseph Campbell claimed that you could measure the priorities of a society by its highest structure. In medieval Europe, that structure was the church spire; in Paris, a very elegant radio tower. In Manhattan, in the year 2015, it's the sky-scraping One World Trade Center, a run-of-the-mill, $3.8 billion office building that carries just a touch of historic and symbolic resonance—just a touch.
So, if you're artist José Parlá, who has just been given the commission to create a monumental mural (90x15 feet) for the lobby, where do you begin?
José applying the finishing touches at One World Trade. Photo: Rey Parlá
"To be honest, this was the most difficult painting I've ever done," Parlá confesses during an interview in his Brooklyn studio. We sit on a pair of mid-century sofas overlooking an open floor below. A dozen or so canvases in various stages of completion hang on four modular walls that, unlike the derelict, abandoned walls he captures so powerfully in his art, are clean and white. His whole studio is something out of an artist's dream. Behold an American success story...
From the Streets to the Gallery, Back to the Streets, and into our Plaza
Born in Miami in 1973 to exiled Cuban parents, Parlá started painting under the name Ease in the 1980s. He received a scholarship to the Savannah School of Art and Design, left early to help his family recover from Hurricane Andrew and further developed his unique fusion of calligraphy and abstract expressionism at the New World School of Art. He moved to the Bronx in 1998 and his first big break came in 2003 when he was selected by Agnès B. for a group show in Paris.


text:
Twitter Bot Correcting People Saying "Illegal Immigrants" Is Causing A Ruckus
A Twitter bot called @DroptheIBot is doing the rounds by correcting people who use the term illegal immigrant, unfortunately people aren't happy about being schooled by a robot.
This bot works in a similar way to the @she_not_he bot corrected people who misgendered Caitlyn Jenner, @DroptheIBot leaves an automated comment on a tweet using the term 'illegal immigrants'.
The bot tells users: "People aren't illegal. Try saying 'undocumented immigrant' or 'unauthorised immigrant' instead."
In an article written for Fusion, the two American journalists who created the bot Patrick Hogan and Jorge Rivas discussed the inspiration behind the bot.
"In a modest effort to help America shed some of its historical baggage, we built a Twitter bot that replies to some of the people who tweet the words 'illegal immigrant', letting them know that in 2015, the preferred terms are 'undocumented immigrant' or 'unauthorised immigrant'."
The account has corrected over 800 users since it was created last week. To avoid spamming people, the Twitter bot only ran every ten minutes, and did not comment on the same user twice.
A bunch of angry Americans are not impressed by a robot telling them what to do:
@DroptheIBot Undocumented Immigrant is LIBERAL P.C. CRAP – Try saying that in ANY COUNTRY outside the U.S. The correct term = ILLEGAL!
— Zarko (@ZarkoElDiablo) July 25, 2015
@DroptheIBot They broke the law entering her illegally, that makes them illegals . Shove your PC BS !
— Michael Means #ORPUW (@michaelmeans49) July 27, 2015
@DroptheIBot I don't recall asking for you opinion and I see that you ahve written the same line over 50 times DON'T PULL THAT CRAP WITH ME
— Dolly Miller Brennan (@Dolly_World) July 27, 2015
Some reactions have been positive:
@DroptheIBot sorry, I didn't think of that. Thanks.
— Mom (@QueenoftheDead_) July 24, 2015
@DroptheIBot good point! thank you!
— OMGWTFBIBLE (@OMGWTFBIBLE) July 24, 2015
Hogan added: "The reaction has been mixed, as I'm sure you can imagine. You can find some of our favourite examples in our original post, but quite a lot of people were upset to be corrected on social media, with not everyone realising it was by an algorithm.
"A handful of people responded positively, with a few others, while not being completely positive, seemed thoughtful about their use of the language, which I think is the least we can hope for."
The account has since been suspended.
Featured image from the Fusion article.


text:
Only 2 more days until we move back into our house We left in the middle of the night on February 24th and have not been back since. It's been an incredibly long process. There were many times that I could hardly make myself go back and look at the house. I know things had to be done, and it was excruciatingly slow at times. If you have to rebuild then sometimes you have to tear down. That was the hard part, watching the destruction after the tree fell. But brick by brick, board by board, shingle by shingle, walls have been rebuilt, repainted, re-insulated. New wooden floors were laid. We are finally almost ready to go home. It is very exciting for us. I hope to have a few pictures soon.
In the meantime, I want to share a few things I have been working on trying to pass the weeks waiting to go home.
Remember the Bama Bound Quilt Project, well, I made just one more quick quilt. I used a fabric bundle from FabricWorm and one of my favorite quilt pattern from Amy At A Commonplace Life, it's the Roundabout Quilt Pattern. It's so fun.
I really love this pattern. Here is the back:
Got into a little scrap with this corner of the binding, I did not win.
I really love the back.
Let me just show you a little peek of the animals I have been knitting like a mad woman.
These patterns all come from Barbara Prime. Her patterns are adorable! The best part is that you work on each piece one by one. Perfect for watching tv after a long day of work. It's a leg here, an arm there, before you know it you are ready to assemble. My daughter loves each one, so I guess that is a good indication for how darn cute they are.
Well, this is what I've been up to lately. Hope you all are enjoying your summer. I am ready to hurry up and get home and get my kitchen gear back in use. I really miss my "no knead" bread, home-made pizza, and my green smoothies. Why did I let them pack up all of my things? I guess it will be that much sweeter when I get home.
**More pictures in Flickr.
*** Another time suck? Pinterest. Do you do it? So fun, but it is a time killer.


text:
Brian Damage
I decided to write this article because two things happened this week, the death of Matthew Osbourne AKA Matt Borne and the reopening of the 30 year old cold case involving Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka.
Now, a few years ago, a friend and myself were approached to write a book on this subject, but for various reasons, fell through. As great and as lighthearted pro wrestling can be…there is also another side…a much darker side. An underbelly if you will, that involves sex, lies, drugs, murder and cover-ups. There are many tales that I have heard or witnessed throughout the years and today, I will share just a few.
Former WWF tag team champion Adolfo Bresciano or better known as "The Canadian Strongman" Dino Bravo was found shot to death in his own home in Quebec. He was shot a total of 17 times, with 7 of those shots directly into his head. It wasn't any random act of violence that took Bravo's life, but rather a well orchestrated hit allegedly by members of a Canadian mafia. You see, as it turns out, Dino Bravo was involved in some illegal activities such as smuggling illegal cigarettes. As word has it, because Dino Bravo was so well known as a former pro wrestler, he took a lot of business away from the mafia and a message was sent.
Harrison Norris aka "Hard body" Harrison a former body builder and WCW wrestler was arrested and charged with kidnapping women and forcing them into prostitution. He apparently lured 8 women into two of his Georgia homes with promises of training them to be pro wrestlers. When inside, they were drugged, beaten, tortured and forced to preform sex acts with a variety of customers. Harrison was eventually arrested and sentenced to life in prison.
Countless wrestlers have died over substance abuse, whether it was cocaine, heroine, alcohol, pain killers or steroids the list is endless. Some names include, Terry Gordy, Eddie Gilbert, Gino Hernandez, Eddie Fatu, Brian Pillman, Eddie Guerrero, Art Barr, Davey Boy Smith, Curt Hennig and Buzz Sawyer just to name a few. Some tales are more interesting than others. For example, Herb Abrams was a wrestling promoter who formed the UWF (Not the Mid-South Version) but a later version based out of California. One day, Herb was seen running through his office screaming, totally nude, breaking anything and everything around him with a baseball bat. When the police came to arrest him, his body was covered in vaseline and cocaine…he later died of a heart attack while in police custody. Back in 1983, after a cocaine binge with his mistress, a 23 year old named Nancy Argentino was found dead in the hotel room of WWE Hall of Famer, Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka. According to Snuka, Argentino passed out, hit her head on a toilet and eventually died. Others have a different account of what happened. Allegedly Snuka in a cocaine fueled raged slapped Argentino so hard that she went into convulsions and died. Snuka was cleared of murder charges, but lost a wrongful death civil case and ordered to pay $500,000 in damages, a fine he has never paid.
Sex has also been a subject of controversy in pro wrestling. While it is no secret that many have affairs with groupies and the like…no scandal or Urban Legend is bigger than the one you've never heard about….Ever wonder why Randy Savage isn't in the WWE Hall of Fame? Why back in 1994, Savage had abruptly left the WWE with no reason as to why? Rumors are rumors…but sometimes rumors turn to stories with actual facts and when more and more different people talk about the same story with the same facts…all of a sudden, things make more sense. How can Vince McMahon once refer to Randy Savage as someone like family…to all of a sudden refuse to have his name ever mentioned on TV or in the locker room ever again? Could it be true? The story of how a divorced Randy Savage found love in a girl….but not just any girl, the daughter of Vince…Stephanie McMahon? Their affair spanned months, but the worst part of it…Stephanie was 14 years old at the time. During those days, McMahon was trying to build up the WWF to be taken more seriously…a scandal like this, if ever got out…would destroy everything he had worked for. So once the affair was brought to Vince's attention, Savage was cut loose, even blacklisted from several promotions the McMahons had a working relationship with. While the exact details of the affair were never made crystal clear…some have said that Stephanie did get pregnant and aborted the baby…others have said, Vince caught them in the act…but all, who were once high up the WWF chain back then…all said it happened…something happened and Vince snapped. Truth or Legend? You decide…
In 1992, before the Savage scandal, the WWF was embroiled in a much more publicized sex scandal. A former ring attendant Tom Cole and former wrestler Barry O accused WWE officials of sexual misconduct…forcing the two to perform sexual acts for job security. The three officials that were named were Pat Patterson, Terry Garvin and ring announcer Mel Phillips. Garvin and Patterson resigned, while Phillips was fired. The WWE eventually settled out of court. Patterson eventually returned to the company.
Wrestlers have died at the hands of other wrestlers…No, not the accidental deaths of such stars as "Iron" Mike DiBiase or King Kong Kirk…but actual murder. The most famous being the stabbing death of Frank Goodish aka "Bruiser Brody" at the hands of fellow wrestler Jose Gonzales aka Invader #1. A "business" discussion between Brody and Gonzales ended up with Brody being stabbed in a shower and later died. Gonzales who allegedly fatally stabbed Brody was eventually acquitted of murder. Of course I would be remiss if I didn't mention the brawl that nearly ended the lives of two wrestlers. After a typical night of boozing and partying, Sid Vicious and Arn Anderson got into a heated argument that led both to be stabbed 24 times with a pair of scissors…only Arn was stabbed 20 of those times to Sid's 4 stab wounds. Thankfully for both, they survived.
Anybody remember the Happy go lucky former WWE Spanish commentator Hugo Savinovich? Did you know that the night prior to Wrestlemania 16 he was ready to commit suicide? The only reason he did not, was his long time friend Savio Vega saved him. Why? Hugo at one point in time had serious drug issues, he was also arrested and sent to prison for what I believe was a statutory rape charge, ie sex with a minor. Thankfully, Hugo turned his life around and now preaches God and inspiration to those who need it most.
Doug Gilbert, the brother of the late "Hot Stuff" Eddie Gilbert, single handily took down a small Memphis promotion called "Power Pro Wrestling" by doing a shoot interview. In his shoot, Gilbert revealed to the audience that the only reason Brian Christopher was being pushed, was because he was the son of Jerry Lawler. (A big reveal at the time) He also accused Lawler of raping a 13 year old girl and accused Memphis promoter Randy Hales of being a crack addict. Power Pro Wrestling never recovered.
We all know about the Matt Hardy/Lita/ Edge love triangle….how about the Undertaker/Brian Lee/Jodi Lynn triangle? Mark "The Undertaker" Calaway and fellow wrestler Brian Lee Harris were very close. Apparently, Brian thought they were so close that he was allowed to share Mark's wife Jodi Lynn. While the Undertaker was on the road, Brian Lee and Jodi had an affair. Mark found out, divorced his wife and Brian Lee was pretty much run out of the industry. Stacy Carter aka Miss Kitty in the WWE was married to Jerry Lawler. In the middle of a story line involving Right to Censor, Carter was inexplicably released. It was so unexpected, Lawler quit the WWE in protest. The excuse why she was cut was her negative attitude, but the real reason was that she was having an affair with a WWE developmental wrestler and subsequently fired. Lawler and Carter divorced shortly after and he returned to the WWE.
In Japan, Kensuke Sasaki, while training students in the famed New Japan Dojo, felt one student named Hiromitsu Gompei wasn't giving 100%. Sasaki was so enraged with the 22 year old, he began violently suplexing and working him over. So much so, Gompei died from his injuries.
Speaking of Japan, the man who brought fame and popularity to the sport, Rikidozan, was stabbed with a urine soaked knife at a Tokyo night club in the 1960's by a member of the Yakuza (Japanese Mafia) and died from his wound a week later. The organized hit was in retaliation for Rikidozan going too stiff on a wrestler backed by the Yakuza.
"The Gentleman" Chris Adams, was by far, nothing like his nickname. The man who was responsible for training a young Steve Austin, was himself, a very big star in the Texas based territories. Chris battled several addictions during his lifetime. In the final year or so of his life, Adams and his girlfriend were discovered unconscious due to an overdose in an apartment. His girlfriend died of the overdose and Adams was charged with manslaughter. While awaiting trial, Adams got into a drunken, heated argument with a friend. His friend pulled out a gun and shot Adams in the chest killing him…His friend was cleared of all charges and ruled self defense.
Pro wrestling is often times considered a soap opera for men…but what if a wrestler was gay? How would he be received by both wrestlers and fans? Chris Kanyon suffered with these questions his entire career. Around 2006, Kanyon finally came out of the closet and admitted he was a homosexual. Five years later, not able to cope with the various pressures of being an openly gay wrestler, bi-polar etc…committed suicide by ODing on anti-depressants. Depression is a common theme with some wrestlers and at times, results in suicide. Such was the case with Mike, Chris and Kerry Von Erich who felt they couldn't live up to the Von Erich name. Rick Wilson better known in WCW as 'The Renegade' committed suicide not long after being released from WCW. Mike Lockwood, better known as "Crash Holly" in the WWE, was released from the company, served divorce papers and killed himself.
ECW Gangsta "New Jack", no stranger to trouble, admitted he tried to intentionally kill fellow wrestler Vic Grimes in a scaffold match. His reason, he and Grimes had a previous scaffold match which was botched leaving New Jack with permanent blindness in one eye. Although New Jack admits the botch was partly his fault, he didn't like that Grimes bragged to several wrestlers that he hurt New Jack. So in a rematch, New Jack wanted to send the message loud and clear, that you don't show him up ever. New Jack intentionally threw Grimes off the scaffolding too hard which he hoped would cause Grimes to miss the tables below and crash into the ring post ala Owen Hart. Grimes survived the fall, but suffered a dislocated ankle.
A little known wrestler and trainer by the name of Medardo Leon, Jr. also known as Ricky Lawless, was shot dead by a jealous husband who found out Lawless was having an affair with his wife. The murder was chronicled in the magazine, Hustler. Lawless most famous student was Axl Rotten.
During the Golden Era of pro wrestling, the most powerful organization was the National Wrestling Alliance or the NWA for short. It consisted of several promoters across the country that formed a governing body, that decided who would carry its world title, who would win what matches, so on and so forth. The NWA became so powerful and successful, it generated $25 million a year. How did it get become so strong? In the early days of its existence, it acted like a wrestling mafia. You either did business with them, or you didn't do business at all. It involved corruption of politicians, journalists and police and shakedowns, threats and even in some extreme cases….murder of local promoters. It got so out of hand, the United States Department of Justice investigated the NWA's practices. Only a few promoters had the guts to break away from the NWA during this era…most notably Verne Gagne's American Wrestling Association and Vince McMahon Sr's World Wide Wrestling Federation.
These are just a snippet of the stories and tales of the dark side of pro wrestling. There are so many other stories to be told….


text:
Für Profis und Einsteiger
Keine Produkte
An einen Freund senden
Empfänger :
* Pflichtfelder
oder Abbrechen
LMP Thunderbolt 2 cable, 1 m, 10 Pack
Compatible to Thunderbolt 1 and 2 (10G / 20G), 10 / 20 Gbps, black, 1 m
- Intel and Apple approved
- Thunderbolt 10G & 20G compatible
- 10 Gbps bi-directionally
- Active electrical
- Dual-protocol support (PCI Express and DisplayPort)
- Compatible with existing (Mini) DisplayPort devices
- Full speed regardless of cable length
- Supports 4K video transfer
- Low latency with highly accurate time synchronization for professional audio and video applications
- 4K display capabilities via DisplayPort 1.2
- Daisy chain use with up to 6 Thunderbolt devices
The LMP Thunderbolt cable connects to a host system's or device's Thunderbolt connector, which provides concurrent support for PCI Express transaction and Display Port format isochronous communication on a single network style interface. It allows the host or device to communicate at high bandwidth with multiple data/display device through a single physical connector. The active electrical cable makes full use of Thunderbolt technology to deliver great responsiveness with data and display transfers at 10 Gbps in each direction at the same time with no sharing of bandwidth between connectors. Depending on cable length, the Thunderbolt cable is either an active electrical cable (up to 3 m) or an active optical cable (above 3 m).
Thunderbolt 1 (10 Gbps)
Thunderbolt 2 (20 Gbps)
General Specification
Length: 1 m
Connector: LOTES thunderbolt connector or compatible
Weight: 46 g (1 m)
Electrical Specification
Supports 2 lane operation
Throughput: 10 Gbps/channel
Link Operating Power Consumption: 1.7 W (typical)
Operating Voltages:
Low Voltage: 3.1~3.4 V
High Voltage: 10.5~15.75 V
Power Delivery:
Low Voltage: 3.1~3.4 V
High Voltage: 10.5~15.75 V (8.5 W for bus-powered mode)
UART Bound Rate: 1 MHz (typical)
Storage and Operation Temperature
Storage Temperature: Intel Thunderbolt Standard -20~85° C ambient
Operation Temperature: Intel Thunderbolt Standard 0~45° C ambient
EMV: FCC class (B), CE
RoHS, Laser class 1, AOC


text:
The world of Anne-Claire Petit is a happy world. With recognizable colour schemes and 'feel good' products, ranging from an extended animal family to baby toys, from deco objects to furniture and from cushions to wallets. In the turmoil of present times, Anne-Claire sees it as her personal goal to cherish traditional textile techniques by creating modern objects for contemporary homes.
from one bear to 250+
Looking at today's collection of more than 250 objects, it is hard to believe that the present collection originates from a fashion accessories brand and actually started in 2002 with one single bear.
the hand of the designer
Every season Anne-Claire Petit strives to offer products that are new and different, but always recognizable. While it sounds like a big step going from shawls, hats and bags to bears, dogs and toys, Anne-Claire's hand is clearly recognisable in all of her designs. This also holds for the bigger objects for the home that have been added over the last few years.
ACP colours
Defining the brand can not be done without looking at its specific colour schemes. Anne-Claire: "The power of colour is not to be underestimated. It greatly determines the way a shape is perceived. By using new tones in new patterns an animal or item can evoke a new emotion."
all over the world
The ACP collection is presently sold in hundreds of shops and department stores, in more than 40 countries around the world.


text:
Browsing Conference papers by Author "Naar, Liisa"
Now showing items 1-1 of 1
Naar, Liisa; Våland, Marianne Stang (Frederiksberg, 2014)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: Increasing interest in 'design thinking' in the fields of management and organization has resulted in a concern with using design-oriented approaches as means to support organizational change and innovation. To this end, conceptual ideas such as Boland and Collopy's 'managing as designing' have aimed at exploring how 'design thinking' can inform managers and the work done in organizational contexts. However, these concepts tend to be discussed theoretically with little grounding in empirical studies of practice that might inform managing according to a 'design thinking' approach. In this paper we look at one attempt at facilitating organizational change through 'design thinking'. The context is the design of a new building for the UTS Business School, Sydney by architect Frank Gehry. User participation was applied to engage stakeholders in ways that would produce valuable input for managers as well as architects. We consider how architectural design and organizational change are constructed and accomplished and to what extent the manager's approach can be considered 'design thinking'. Our findings suggest that while 'design thinking' may be one approach to managing complex change processes, a deeper engagement between designers, managers and users is needed. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/9012
Files in this item: 1
Now showing items 1-1 of 1


text:
The Invitae Costello Syndrome Test analyzes HRAS, a gene that is associated with Costello syndrome. Costello syndrome is one of the RASopathies, which are a class of pediatric disorders associated with genes that are members of the Ras/MAPK pathway. This pathway is involved in a signal transduction cascade that is necessary for the proper formation of several types of tissue during embryonic and postnatal development.
Costello syndrome is characterized by coarse facial features, congenital heart defects, failure to thrive and feeding difficulties, developmental delay and intellectual disability, deep palmar and plantar creases, and increased risk of malignancies; however, the RASopathies have several overlapping phenotypic features due to their common underlying Ras/MAPK pathway dysregulation. Distinguishing Costello syndrome from other phenotypically similar syndromes, such as CFC syndrome and Noonan syndrome, is important for proper medical management.
The RASopathies are multisystemic disorders whose clinical expressions are highly variable, even among family members. Many of the clinical features that can differentiate RASopathy conditions manifest later in childhood or change with age, making accurate clinical diagnosis difficult. The phenotypes of many RASopathy conditions are expanding: Individuals are being discovered with a molecular genetic finding in a RASopathy gene but clinical findings that are not typically described in the specific condition associated with that gene. Additionally, some genes are associated with more than one RASopathy syndrome.
Testing for Noonan syndrome is also included in the broader Invitae RASopathies Comprehensive Panel. Depending on the individual's clinical and family history, this broader panel may be appropriate and can be ordered at no additional charge.
Costello syndrome is a pediatric multisystemic and developmental disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the HRAS gene. Characteristic features include intellectual disability, failure to thrive and feeding difficulties, cardiac malformations, short stature, loose skin with deep palmar and plantar creases, cerebellar overgrowth, papillomata of the face and perianal region, predisposition to malignancy, and dysmorphic facial features including coarse facies, epicanthal folds, long eyelashes, sparse/curly hair, full lips, and a wide nasal bridge.
Pathogenic variants in the HRAS gene are identified in approximately 80%-90% of individuals with a clinical diagnosis of Costello syndrome. A mutation hotspot in exon 2 at amino acid position p.Gly12 or p.Gly13 accounts for nearly 95% of pathogenic variants identified in HRAS.
A small number of individuals have been identified with a clinical diagnosis of Costello syndrome and pathogenic variants in the KRAS gene, so an expansion of the phenotypic and genotypic spectrum caused by KRAS variants may be considered. Depending on the clinical presentation of the patient, clinicians may wish to order Invitae RASopathies Comprehensive panel, which includes both HRAS and KRAS, for a broader analysis.
Costello syndrome is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern.
Costello syndrome is a completely penetrant pediatric-onset disorder.
Individuals with Costello syndrome have a lifetime risk of approximately 15%-17% of malignant solid tumors, including neuroblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma. Acoustic neuroma and bladder carcinoma have also been reported in adults with Costello syndrome.
Cardiac abnormalities, including malformations, arrhythmias, and hypertrophy, are present in approximately 63% of individuals with Costello syndrome and are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality.
Costello syndrome is rare, and the birth prevalence has been estimated in the UK population at 1:500,000.
Costello syndrome testing is indicated for any individual with clinical features that are consistent with Costello syndrome or who has a first-degree relative with Costello syndrome.
Because the clinical phenotype overlaps among other RASopathies, Costello syndrome testing is also indicated in cases in which the clinical phenotype is consistent with Noonan syndrome or CFC syndrome, but results from previous molecular testing for these conditions are negative.
Invitae is a College of American Pathologists (CAP)-accredited and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-certified clinical diagnostic laboratory performing full-gene sequencing and deletion/duplication analysis using next-generation sequencing technology (NGS).
Our sequence analysis covers clinically important regions of each gene, including coding exons and 10 to 20 base pairs of adjacent intronic sequence on either side of the coding exons in the transcript listed below. In addition, the analysis covers the select non-coding variants specifically defined in the table below. Any variants that fall outside these regions are not analyzed. Any limitations in the analysis of these genes will be listed on the report. Contact client services with any questions.
Based on validation study results, this assay achieves >99% analytical sensitivity and specificity for single nucleotide variants, insertions and deletions <15bp in length, and exon-level deletions and duplications. Invitae's methods also detect insertions and deletions larger than 15bp but smaller than a full exon but sensitivity for these may be marginally reduced. Invitae's deletion/duplication analysis determines copy number at a single exon resolution at virtually all targeted exons. However, in rare situations, single-exon copy number events may not be analyzed due to inherent sequence properties or isolated reduction in data quality. Certain types of variants, such as structural rearrangements (e.g. inversions, gene conversion events, translocations, etc.) or variants embedded in sequence with complex architecture (e.g. short tandem repeats or segmental duplications), may not be detected. Additionally, it may not be possible to fully resolve certain details about variants, such as mosaicism, phasing, or mapping ambiguity. Unless explicitly guaranteed, sequence changes in the promoter, non-coding exons, and other non-coding regions are not covered by this assay. Please consult the test definition on our website for details regarding regions or types of variants that are covered or excluded for this test. This report reflects the analysis of an extracted genomic DNA sample. In very rare cases, (circulating hematolymphoid neoplasm, bone marrow transplant, recent blood transfusion) the analyzed DNA may not represent the patient's constitutional genome.
|Transcript reference
|Sequencing analysis
|Deletion/Duplication analysis


text:
This is a collection of more than 500 interviews with members of the Pittsburgh Jewish community. Started in 1968, it is probably the longest running and largest oral Jewish history project known to exist in the world. Trained volunteer interviewers recorded the histories. The tapes have intentionally never been transcribed because the voices of those interviewed dramatically recreate long-disappeared European political and social worlds and their impact.
See coverage of the project in Pop City and the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Publications and films:
NEW! Her Deeds Sing Her Praises: Profiles of Pittsburgh Jewish Women (2016)
This book recounts the deeds and sings the praises of 21 Pittsburgh Jewish women. They lived in different eras, came from different backgrounds and followed different paths; but they all made an indelible mark upon our community and beyond. Special thanks to project visionaries, editors and writers Eileen Lane, Eric Lidji and Lois Michaels; their advisory group of historians, archivists, writers and communal leaders; and the volunteer writers who ensured that the lives and achievements of these 21 women can be preserved through their own words and voices.
My Voice Was Heard (1981)
The individual histories of those Jews who contributed to the development and contributions of the Pittsburgh Jewish community are recorded in this second book. A broader cross-section of the Pittsburgh Jewish Community members were interviewed to gather histories from 1924 onward.
By Myself I'm a Book (1972)
These early histories preserve the fascinating experiences of the Eastern European Jews who had immigrated to the United States between 1890 and 1924. We hear why they left their homelands, how they reached America, and what their early views of adjustment were.
Pittsburgh & Beyond
Bridges to History (film, 1980)
Bridges to the Future (film, 1996)
Master Tapes
To access the master tapes, please write to:
Head, Archives Service Center (ASC)
University of Pittsburgh
7500 Thomas Boulevard
Pittsburgh, PA 15208
Indices Online
Subject Index (PDF, 406K)
Name Index (PDF, 21K)
Geographic Index (PDF, 79K)
Other Resources
American Jewish Historical Society: fosters awareness and appreciation of American Jewish heritage; a resource for scholarly research.
Jewish-American History on the Web: focuses on 19th-century Jewish American life.
New York Public Library: includes American Jewish Committee's 2,000-tape oral history collected between 1978 and 1993.
JewishGen, Inc.: the primary Internet source connecting researchers of Jewish genealogy worldwide. Created to assist those researching their Jewish ancestry.
Oral History Association: seeks to bring together people interested in oral history.
H-Net: A network for scholars and professionals active in studies related to oral history.


text:
My Life Change
This is a guest post written by Clover, a college student and vapaholic from the Midwest.
14 Months Ago
When I first heard of e-cigs, I didn't think of them as something serious. They had to be just a gimmick. But when I was getting desperate for a solution, I thought why not? What did I have to lose besides a few bucks? Plus, I could always return it. When I decided to begin vaping, I didn't have much support. I bought my first kit and my boyfriend said I was wasting my money. Who could blame him? Once the package arrived, and I started using my e-cig, I loved it. To his surprise, I haven't looked back since.
E-cigs are an alternative to smoking. I loved smoking as much as I hated it. Smoking relaxed me and gave me a sense of control. I didn't want to give that up. I didn't want the bad smell and other negatives. Not to mention, that when I smoked I was potentially putting other people at risk. Vaping means that instead of harmful second-hand smoke, I now expel an inoffensive vapor that quickly dissipates. Instead of 4,000+ chemicals being introduced into my body every time I inhale, I am only inhaling propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, food grade flavoring, nicotine, and water; all of which are used in products we come in contact with every day. There is even nicotine in vegetables like tomatoes and potatoes. Maybe that explains my obsession with anything potato! Since I started vaping I feel so much better; my teeth are whiter, my hair smells like my shampoo, even my complexion is better! I can't think of going back to smoking analogues. I love vaping so much. It has changed my life in so many ways. I feel better, look better, and best of all I have made so many new friends!
If and when you decide to start vaping, know that it is truly a journey. You have to figure out what works best for you and that may take some time. You have to try out different batteries, different cartomizers, and most importantly decide on what juice and nicotine strength suits you best. It is a journey that can take months. You may have days where you feel discouraged, but hang in there and try something new. You may have to spend some money in the beginning but it is worth it in the long run. I am glad I decided to take the plunge 14 months ago. I'm still glad I made the decision to switch, even when people give me weird looks and think I'm silly. It works for me. Vaping is normal to me now and its part of who I am.


text:
Ashley X-cess Queen Panel Bed – 3D Models. Material: Wood Products and Other. Color: Merlot Finish. Dimensions: 64"W x 2"D x 20"H.
This model is made in accordance with the proportions and sizes of real furniture.
With a rich finish and a refreshing casual design, the "X-cess" bedroom collection creates a warm relaxing environment perfect to enhance the beauty of any bedroom decor. Sleep within the bedroom of your dreams with the contemporary beauty of the "X-cess" bedroom collection.


text:
And It Is Powerful by K.R. Foster
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Genre: Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Short Story (35 pgs)
Other: M/M
Rating: 3.5 cherries
Reviewed by Coreopsis
"Sexual gratification is achieved through control and self-actualization. It is submission. It is dominance. And it is powerful."
Synge is an anomaly in the Granite Pleasure House: a Sadist who is not aroused by pain. He'd entered Granite to learn to master the pain of his tormented childhood, not to inflict it on others. That doesn't stop those who relish pain from seeking him out, but Synge is used to refusing them – until a desperate, virginal slave named Rown offers himself. Afraid that someone else will break the beautiful boy, Synge accepts – and Rown will learn that what his new master wants from him is not at all what he expected.
When I started reading this story it wasn't what I expected. Its starts off talking about this world of Nyph and how it has its different categories of people, sadists, masochist, and slaves. So one would think it would be about dominance, spankings, and things of that nature, but it wasn't. It's a story of one man trying overcome the violence of his past.
I really like the character of Synge; he's a strong man but doesn't use that strength or his title over others to dominate them. For this man, his lifestyle is strictly for his own healing -- a coping mechanism. I found that Synge was a real respectable man and even more so when he takes in a slave name Rown. He accepts Rown's offer to take him home because Synge knows it's the right thing to do to keep the other man safe. Not the typical behavior of a sadist.
At first I thought Rown was a poor misguided youth who had been abandoned by the people in his life. I found out that Rown had a plan from the very beginning on how to get what he wanted for himself and Synge. In a world where the weaker are pushed into a submissive role, it was refreshing to see this young man as confident and determined to get what he wants out of life.
This book is the third in the series and I look forward to reading the two prior stories. This is a touching love story between two men living in a world separated by dominants and submissives, but more than that it's about two men who have had hard lives and how they overcome their past to find their own happiness together in a world where they feel alone.


text:
Position: Logistics and Warehouse Officer
Company: Atlas Copco Tanzania
Location: Mwanza
Carry out responsibility in the supply function. Your goal is to achieve customer satisfaction through timely response to supply enquiries and maintaining of the correct stock levels to meet Atlas Copco and customer operations while minimizing working capital and wastage.
Specific Activities
1. Carry out stock ordering and holding functions i.e.
a. Stock Planning and re-ordering in consultation with relevant sales and Aftermarket Departments.
b. Order placement with Distribution Centres.
c. Communication with Logistics Service Providers to facilitate shipment and clearing. Order receiving, inspection and warehousing.
d. Arrange road transport, loading and off-loading of imported goods. Control stock levels as well as stock in days.
e. Stock control and management, including update of stock records.
f. Stock Takes.
g. Stock Returns.
h. Ensuring safety of stock.
2. Manage Counter sales and issuing of equipment, parts and consumables:
a. Issue and document issues to Atlas Copco service staff.
b. Receive and address customer enquiries.
c. Identify customer needs and prepare quotations.
d. Issue and document deliveries to customers.
e. Raise invoices for all issues, internally or externally as required.
3. Manage the Logistics flow of rebuild components from the customers
a. Receive the failed components from the customers and handing over to technical department.
b. Arranging for packaging of components to be sent for rebuild outside the country
c. Preparing for export paperwork for components to be sent for rebuild outside the country
d. Coordinating with the clearing agent and forwarders to export/import the failed/rebuilt.
e. Follow-up with the Mwanza workshop department and also the rebuild centre in SA and advising the customer on the delivery status for their rebuild components.
f. Arranging for delivery of rebuilt components back to the customer.
4. Follow up payment for credit sales.
5. Maintain good customer relations, including provision of regular feedback on delivery issues and stocking requirements.
6. Provide back-up for Logistics and Warehouse staff in Mwanza Branch and other sites if and when required.
7. Maintain high standards of workman-ship and observe safety and environmental requirements.
8. Other duties as may be assigned by your Supervisor.
Experience requirements
At least 2 to 3 years of experience in Logistics and Warehouse, particularly experience within mining industry will be an asset
Educational requirements
Degree/Diploma in Logistics and Warehouse Management
Personality requirements
-Team player
- Fairness
- Respect for all individual in the organization
- Excellent communication skills and proactive
Send your application to: email@example.com
Expiry date: 08th Feb 2015
Tuesday, February 03, 2015
Logistics and Warehouse Officer
Position: Logistics and Warehouse Officer


text:
Still tracking our next disturbance due to arrive Thursday and bring with it another chance of rain and snow to much of the state. Right now totals east of the mountains look to remain light (perhaps very light), with the Palmer Divide the favored area to see any accumulation Thursday PM/overnight.
The main impact for most locations east of the mountains will be the cooler temperatures – from highs in the 60s today, to 40s both Thursday and Friday.
The chance of precipitation moves into eastern Colorado Thursday afternoon and overnight, with pockets of rain and snow, again likely focused along the foothills, western/southern Denver suburbs, and Palmer Divide.
Don't miss: Weather5820 Insider mid Feb update
We think many (if not most) folks along the urban corridor will see little or no accumulation, but if you end up under a heavier snow shower, look for a coating to 2" to be possible. For those favored areas mentioned above, a few 3 - 4" totals will be possible, but most will come in lower, so will leave leave a Trace (T) as the low-end for these areas as well.
Here is our snowfall forecast for Thursday into Friday:
And a look at the EURO ensemble probabilities for greater than 1" of snow through Friday... at 100% for the high country, with slightly higher probs for Denver's southwest suburbs as well. As you can see, if you live north of Denver (Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley) odds of seeing an inch are quite low/nonexistent:
While this won't be a terribly cold system, especially compared to our last, look for icing to be an issue for your commutes Thursday evening and Friday morning, even if you don't see much snow.
Good mountain snow, bad travel
A Winter Storm Warning goes into effect for much of the high country tonight, and remains in effect through Thursday. This should equate to some great skiing this weekend... but travel will be difficult Thursday, with upwards of 8" likely for most of the higher peaks. This probabilistic outlook shows the potential for good mountain snow heading into the weekend:
Temperatures will rebound nicely for the weekend, with highs back in the 50s for Denver by Saturday. Another system is set to arrive early next week... so stay tuned!


text:
A Jazz radio program airing since 2011. Hosted by Joe Dimino and Engineered by John Christopher in Kansas City, Missouri. Giving listeners a journey into one of America's finest inventions .. Jazz. From Miles Davis to The Bad Plus, the world of Jazz is our playground. Listen on KCXL (102.9 FM / 1140 AM) Saturday morning at 10 a.m. and Sunday Morning at 6 a.m. Also, tune into KOJH-FM (104.7 FM) Monday - Friday from Noon to 1 p.m. (www.tunein.com / www.kojhfm.org)
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Jazz Singer Laura Ainsworth Neon Jazz Plugs
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Hi Guys!
Today I want to talk about Leopard print. It's a bit of a marmite pattern, some people love it and some really can't stand it. To some it conjurs up images of the famous Pat Butcher from Eastenders, with her AMZINGLY massive earrings and loud clothing, or if you're a bit older you may remember Bet Lynch from Corrie, with her platinum blonde beehive? Leopard print, or animal print in general can look a bit, ahem, cheap, but I personally love animal prints! I actually had a good five years of my life where I pretty much lived in H&M brightly coloured leopard print vest tops, teamed with equally bight contrasting coloured cardigans – such good times! For those who might want to dabble with a bit of animal print though, without it being OTT, shoes and accessories are a great place to start.
This is where my amazing new shoes come in! Their full name is the Clarks Dunbar Cruiser in Tan Interest Leather, from Shoetique. 'Interest' I'm guessing means the print. These super comfy flats are a traditional moccasin style (which I have to say wouldn't usually appeal to me) they're made with leopard printed leather and have a textured pony hair upper, and I LOVE these shoes! They're perfect for jazzing up an every day outfit, they look great with jeans, leggings, or frocks. They really are super versatile. They also have a cushioned leather insole for comfort, amazing!
So what do you think, have I tempted you to try leopard print out?? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
This post contains a sample provided for review


text:
Location: "Simid A&D" Bakery, Sofia
I am so happy retro is trendy again. Or at least in my own world of fashion. I'm so attracted by the romantic past. It's like stealing a pinch of its charm for myself. 90s jeans. Top, watch and bandana from the 60s. Modern, but yet somehow 70s-style sandals. All those matching my romantic soul, which is constantly striving to find new places, where to celebrate those little everyday moments of joy.
The latest place on my must-visit-more-often list is the Simid A&D Bakery on Shipka street. I love its unpretentious and rustic atmosphere. Charmingly retro spirited. You sit down and you see different people – young, old, mothers with children, businessmen. I love places which remind in what diverse society we live. Honestly, I find it kind of boring to live my days only among similar to me people. It is so much more interesting to see that diversity around me. That's why such places are much appreciated. For instance, there was this senior person near us who was solving a crossword puzzle. I loved that! Nobody does it anymore but there's something so charming about it.
I will surely keep on stealing for myself the charm from the past. Would it be by the way I dress, or the places I go to. I just enjoy it. And I will keep on coming back here, too, whenever it is possible, and will be looking for more places like this. Not because retro is trendy, but because it makes me feel good.
Little Big shirt
H&M jeans
INGILIZ sandals
Daniel Wellington watch
Kate Spade bag (alternative)
Bandana (similar)
Valentino sunglasses
How do you feel about wearing the retro trend and visiting the retro places? :)
Denina ♥


text:
Facebook and NBC are teaming up to publish video content around the 2014 Winter Olympics, due to start on the 6th February in Sochi, Russia. One of the most anticipated international sporting events of the year, the Winter tournament is expected to generate massive social and video traffic across the globe. NBC Universal hold the American rights to broadcast the Games in the U.S. and aim to generate substantial traffic and engagement via their Facebook deal. NBC are believed to be in talks with other social networks but the agreement with Facebook, and Facebook-owned Instagram, is the first to be officially announced.
NBC and Facebook have partnered up before, for the 2012 London Olympics, but are increasing their content in 2014 due to what Gary Zenkel, president of NBC Olympics, calls an "insatiable appetite for Olympics content". He went on to say:
With an eye on driving viewership to our multi-platform coverage, we will use our unique access to all aspects of the Sochi Games to ignite the Olympic conversation and engagement on Facebook.
NBC is devoting over 1000 hours to digital coverage of the Sochi Games across the internet and their Olympics Facebook page will feature the latest news, views and information along with videos, images and interviews. The first of NBC's short Olympic profiles, on the relationship between American speed skater J.R. Celski and Seattle rapper Macklemore, premiered on Facebook today.
NBC plans to broadcast more than 500 hours of TV coverage and 1,000 hours online, meaning Sochi will get twice as much video coverage than the 2006 and 2010 Games put together.


text:
Project location: Reykjavik is a city full of energy, just waiting for you to experience it. Powered by heat from the earth below, with ever-changing weather sweeping across the landscape, its natural features are matched by the energy of its residents. Think of the denominators of a great city - fun, culture, nature, clean air - Reykjavik has them in spades. All the advantages of a modern, forward-looking society are complemented by the beautiful natural setting. In a country of only just over 300,000 people, the Reykjavik Capital Area has a population of about 200,000. However, since it's the only major city in the country, Reykjavik has a lot of the amenities that you would only expect to find in a much larger centre elsewhere in the world.
Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city and is centred on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. Come at the right time of year, and in favourable conditions you will see the city's skyline silhouetted against the glowing, shimmering curtain of the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights. Reykjavik is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay to the north, while rugged lava-fields spread to the southeast. On a clear sunny day, the Snaefellsjökull glacier glitters on the western horizon like a crystal.
Work: The organisation has a farmhouse on the outskirts of Reykjavik, 15 km from the center of the capital. Since the creation of Worldwide Friends, the organisation has been looking for an opportunity to set up a project that aims to promote sustainable living. Volunteers will do some renovating in the house and on the property and take care of the work in the farm. We have chickens, a cat, a greenhouse for growing herbs and vegetables and a piece of land where we grow potatoes, carrots and lettuce. Volunteers will help with all tasks related to the farm, as the work varies depending on the season. This year, we will also have special topics to discuss in the workcamps, such as "food waste", "recycling" and "renewable energy".
Leisure: Two excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer will be organised for the volunteers. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights, such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents or even icebergs.
There are bikes available in the farm, so the group can go on shorts rides around the area. A city tour in Reykjavik will also be organised with a visit to one of the outdoor swimming pools.
Accommodation and food: Worldwide Friends volunteers will be staying in our house in Sveinsstadir, which is located on the outskirts of Reykjavik. This place is like a farm in the city, so you can enjoy pure nature and the city life of the capital at the same time. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bags and towels, but beds/mattresses and bed linens are provided. Wireless internet access is provided free of charge.
Food is included for the duration of the workcamp, however, everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. Since it is always nice to try new and different dishes, volunteers are encouraged to bring along their favourite recipes from home!
We will also concentrate on intercultural learning and exchange. Every evening, volunteers from different countries will be in charge of presenting their country of origin and culture in an informal way. It can be a presentation, a game, theatre – the form of introduction is up to you! Therefore, we encourage you to bring along some food, photos or anything interesting related to your country for a fun and informative evening amongst other volunteers.
This workcamp gives you the opportunity to spend an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge with each other while exploring creativity, environmental issues and intercultural learning.
Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
Additional information: There is an extra participation fee of 600 euros for this workcamp. The fee includes pick-up and drop-off services to and from KEF Int. Airport, the Golden Circle South Iceland and the South Coast of-Iceland to Vik excursions and a return trip from the farm to Reykjavik after the camp.
Please note: If participants need to stay in Reykjavik before or after the camp, we can host them for an extra fee which is 30 euro per night.


text:
There is a persistent prevalence of adolescent pregnancy in Peru. The indicators have not lowered for 25 years now; on the contrary, there has been a 2.1 percent increase observed, going from 12.5 percent in 2011 to 14.6 percent in 2014, according to figures from the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI). The estimation is that at the moment there are 207,800 adolescents of 15 to 19 years old who are mothers or are going through a first pregnancy.
"There is no comprehensive approach to public policies in order to reverse the indicators; the assigned budget is insufficient by all means. To begin with, there is no specific budget assigned for the reduction of teen pregnancy; we are putting at risk the development of thousands of Peruvian women in the country," says to Latinamerica Press Rossina Guerrero, Director of Political Advocacy of the Center for the Promotion and Defense of Sexual and Reproductive Rights (Promsex).
The study conducted by Doctor Luis Távara ,"Impact of Pregnancy on the Health of Adolescent Women in Peru," published in 2015, warns that this prevalence is observed with big differences by education level, geographical environment (urban and rural) and by poverty quintiles, despite different strategies having been applied to face this problem — since 2013 the Peruvian state has had a multi-sectoral plan for the prevention of teen pregnancy (2013-2021), and since last year the Ministry of Health has had a Technical Norm of Family Planning that establishes that there is now no minimum age to have access to contraceptive methods — and all establishments are obligated to provide comprehensive family planning services when an adolescent so requests it.
Guerrero says that unfortunately, this plan has not led to the progress and protection of adolescent girls. Teen pregnancy is the second cause for school drop out in the country: 25 percent; in other words, more than a million adolescents end up outside of the education system; and later the teen mothers have to work in low-paid jobs to be able to support their children, something that condemns them to poverty.
One of the biggest problems identified by the experts is that the state is only looking at the problem from a health standpoint. Távara stresses that the handling of this issue by the state has been unisectoral and not cross-sectoral, while Irene Del Mastro, who has a Master in Gender Studies from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, points out to Latinamerica Press that the problem not only boils down to access to health and contraceptive methods.
"The approach taken by the state has not solved a thing," says Del Mastro. "For 25 years now the figures have been the same; in 25 years they have oscillated between 12 percent and 14 percent, that is to say, there has been no change at all."
Conservatism on the attack
Childbearing starts earlier and earlier in the country. Each day 15 girls of between 11 and 15 years old become mothers; this according to the National Registry of Identification and Civil Status (RENIEC), with a higher incidence in the Peruvian jungle: 40 percent average.
In his study, Távara warns that there is little political will coming from the Ministry of Education to implement sex education at all levels of education.
For Del Mastro, "the root problem is that there is no comprehensive sex education in the country. Education is one of the main pillars needed to reverse this structural problem; and if the focus on sex education does get implemented in the education curriculum, we will not see the results in 20 years," adding that control of sexuality exists in schools and homes. "We don't talk to young people about sex; we don't see sex between young people as something natural for a matter of conservatism."
"There is a need to provide sex education," says Guerrero. "More than just learning about contraceptive methods, an education coming from the school is necessary so that all students can talk with teachers about these issues and they can also talk to their parents. Adolescents are starting their sexual activity without preventing an unwanted pregnancy or a sexually transmitted disease, which is also a serious problem."
To the lack of comprehensive sex education, experts add that there is now a lot of pressure coming from religious groups that want to impose a non secular policy on sexuality and reproduction which is not respectful of rights.
Organizations such as Promsex, Study for the Defense of Women's Rights (DEMUS), and the Center of Peruvian Women Flora Tristán have denounced repeatedly that there are political forces in Congress, with a strong influence from the Catholic and Evangelist Churches, that have been imposing an agenda that could influence the public policies, such as are the access to sexual health and reproductive services, comprehensive sex education and the prevention of sexual violence.
"There are constant attacks by anti-rights groups in the country against the implementation of public policies that would make a positive impact when it comes to preventing and lowering teen pregnancies. The Congress cannot interfere in public policy. If we do not become aware of the impact that pressure from these religious groups can have, we are going to end up with higher indicators than what we have now," Guerrero warns.
Sexual violence
Another alarming figure is that Peru occupies the first place in Latin America as the country where more sexual violence cases are reported. Each year the Public Ministry receives approximately 1,500 complaints from Peruvian women. According to statistics from DEMUS, 75 percent of reported rape cases are of underage girls.
According to data from the Peruvian National Police, on a daily basis five girls between the ages of 10 and 14 become mothers as a result of a rape.
"Although there are no statistics on how many young girls may have wanted to have an abortion, there is the matter of a lack of reproductive justice in Peru. Our country has a class-based and elitist society, because there is no access to safe abortion, and this is a way to condemn poor women to reproductive consequences that they have no possibility to revert," says Del Mastro.
The study "Impact of Pregnancy on the Health of Adolescent Women in Peru" states that teen pregnancy is considered one of public health problems that are more prevalent and of most importance that affect Peruvian women in three facets: physical, mental and social.
For Guerrero, the country has an enormous challenge ahead that must be taken on in a cross-sectoral manner, and working closely with the ministries of Women, Education, Health and Labor.
"We must really strengthen our public systems and strengthen the state as guarantors of rights, and this implies better education and better health services. Health operators have many preconceived prejudices regarding the rights that adolescents have to gain access to family planning methods. In order to assert the fulfillment of rights, resources are needed, budget is needed," she says. —Latinamerica Press.


text:
Madhya Pradesh
Discover the majesty of the Medieval era!
Previously having boasted of being the largest, Madhya Pradesh, as the name suggests, is the central most state of India. The state of Madhya Pradesh acknowledges of being a mosaic of both Islamic and Hindu cultures. If Bhopal was famous for its Nawabi culture, the magnificent Chitrakoot boasts of being a backdrop for an episode of the Ramayana.
From the grand palaces and forts of Gwalior, Mandu, Orchha and Damoh to the tiger safaris in Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Pench, Madhya Pradesh is one state which offers a scintillating range of places to be visited. Rudyard Kipling was so mesmerised by the raw beauty of Pench National Park that he used it as a backdrop to his magnum opus - The Jungle Book. The breathtaking Amarkantak is the source of river Narmada and the majestic Vindhyas are the starting point of the Betwa river.
Not only famous for its natural beauty, the state of Madhya Pradesh flaunts its temples in Ujjain and Khajuraho complementing with the early cave paintings of Bhimbetka. In all, this Indian state is a happy concoction of varied heritage and culture.
Known as the heart of India for its geographical significance, Madhya Pradesh or simply MP is a delight for the cultural or wildlife buff. The second largest Indian state by area, MP boasts of rich cultural heritage through the old tribals who still reside in its heart, as well as being home to the famous forests of Pench, where Rudyard Kipling famously based his timeless book, The Jungle Book.
A tour to Madhya Pradesh is never quite the same without its varied and unique cuisine, which, given the region's centrality, is influenced from a number of other states.
Find the best V Resorts property for your stay


text:
He started life as a Dixon wounded cowboy figure, and a dead horse. The head was swapped over for one with a kepi, a plastic card and greenstuff pistol holster and small conversion on the revolver.
Biggest part of the work was painting details, the blue and yellow kepi! The stripe down the outside of the trouser legs.
The Sharpe's carbine is from the Perry plastic ACW cavalry set, I kept all the spare parts from the set when I built my Soviet WW2 cavalry. I'm a magpie when it comes to saving bits and pieces from kits that I don't use, you never know when they will fit the bill perfectly.
I still have a lot of bits and pieces that I'm working on for my ACW collection, some slightly more complex and more time consuming then this one, but never the less they will all hopefully add that bit more character to my collection.
So thanks for looking
Cheers for


text:
Wed, 23 August 2017
As the sun is blotted out in the sky, we await the be-all end-all of money fights, the Alpha and the Omega. Floyd Mayweather vs Conor McGregor is finally upon us, and on this episode we finally take the time to talk about it on a technical level. How will Conor's MMA striking play off of Mayweather's boxing? What makes Mayweather such a daunting challenge, and how crazy would it actually be if McGregor won?
Of course, there is only so much close reading one can give a fight with so many X-factors (and seemingly so few regular factors to consider), so we brought on Chapo Trap House's Felix Biederman to discuss the nature of the fight game, the politics of combat sports, and the usefulness of martial arts in an increasingly violent political landscape.
Direct download: 173_May-Mac_and_Felix_Biederman.mp3
Category:Interview -- posted at: 2:05pm EDT
Mon, 24 April 2017
Connor sat down to talk with UFC bantamweight contender Jimmie Rivera this week for a written piece. But since we appreciate you subscribers so much, we've uploaded the audio as an extra bonus episode for the month. Hear Jimmie talk about his training methods, his relationship with Tiger Schulmann, his sparring session with TJ Dillashaw, and his future in the UFC.
To hear the rest of this episode, head over to our Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=2439474). Patrons who pledge $3 a month get access to two bonus episodes every month.
Direct download: bonus_9_teaser.mp3
Category:Interview -- posted at: 12:36pm EDT
Wed, 18 January 2017
Greg Jackson has accomplished the rare feat of making himself an MMA celebrity without ever stripping down and setting foot into the Octagon. He has become a star trainer, and not without a whole host of good reasons. For one, Jackson has been teaching mixed martial arts since 2000 at this point. He has played a crucial role in the careers of many champions and all-time greats, including Georges St-Pierre, Jon Jones, Carlos Condit, Donald Cerrone, and more.
Throughout all of this, Jackson has garnered a reputation as one of the best strategists in the sport. They've called him a sport-killer and a hero, but no one can deny that Greg Jackson knows how to come up with a gameplan. On this week's Heavy Hands, Greg sits down with us to discuss his process. How does gameplanning differ from one fighter to the next, how does he know what to look for, and how does it all come together in the corner?
The back half of the show features a discussion of matchmaking in the UFC as it pertains to our surprisingly entertaining UFC Phoenix card. We break down Yair Rodriguez's dominant win over BJ Penn and Sergio Pettis' win over John Moraga through that lens.
Direct download: 142_rodriguez_penn_recap_vid.mp3
Category:Interview -- posted at: 12:41pm EDT
Thu, 17 November 2016
Direct download: 133_henry_on_205.mp3
Category:Interview -- posted at: 9:30pm EDT
Wed, 21 September 2016
Heavy Hands returns with another interview, this time with the bold, funny, and insightful Gilbert Burns, one of the most promising prospects in the UFC's lightweight division, and a veritable master of the armbar (he has won three of his four UFC bouts using that technique). Gilbert talked to us about . . .
- Training Brazilian jiu-jitsu at Nova Uniao
One of my favorite highlights from our conversation came when Gilbert addressed fellow grappling ace Demian Maia, and his belief that the best victory is one which causes no harm to the opponent."Don't get me wrong," Burns said. "I have Demian as a friend. I love to watch this guy's fighting, but I don't agree with a couple of the things he says. Like, 'Oh, I just wanna finish the guy, don't wanna make damage, next day he can train . . .'
"No, bro. I wanna finish you . . . if I see your face there, my elbows gonna come."
After the interview, we preview the best bouts of the UFC's upcoming Brasilia card, including the main event clash between Cristiane "Cyborg" Justino and Lina Lansberg.
Direct download: 124_gilbert_burns.mp3
Category:Interview -- posted at: 1:21am EDT
Fri, 22 July 2016
Brian Stann was known as an action fighter during his professional MMA career, but since then he has settled into a role on the sidelines and established himself as one of the wisest voices in the game--and potentially the greatest living American. Just don't tell him that.
He joins Heavy Hands this week to look back on UFC International Fight Week and UFC 200, and look forward to the matchups made possible by those events. Brian celebrates the battle between Joanna Jedrzejczyk and Claudia Gadelha, and discusses the brilliance of Jose Aldo's victory over Frankie Edgar. As for Conor McGregor, who will likely rematch Aldo next, whether he wins or loses in his rematch to Nate Diaz, Brian gives his thoughts on McGregor's unique mental state. McGregor may possess unmatched mental fortitude, but how can he possibly improve on a 13-second KO?
Listen in to hear the full intreview, plus a detailed breakdown of UFC 201's big fights, Robbie Lawler vs Tyron Woodley for the welterweight strap, and Rose Namajunas vs Karloina Kowalkiewicz. Our predictions may surprise you . . .
Direct download: 116_brian_stann.mp3
Category:Interview -- posted at: 10:51pm EDT
Wed, 22 June 2016
Dominick Cruz may have been the first UFC champion to stop by Heavy Hands, but Demetrious Johnson made sure he wasn't the last. It's a very competitive business vying to get on our show, you understand.
Seriously though, we were very honored to welcome arguably the greatest mixed martial artist on the planet today on Heavy Hands, and boy did we have so much to ask him. Johnson is well-known for his transitions, ably switching from one range to another or from one phase to another, and he talks about the unique relationship with trainers Matt Hume and Brad Kertson than enables that style.
The pound-for-pound great also discusses his approach to gameplanning for each specific opponent, and the inimitable clinch game that led him to a dominant first-round victory over Olympic wrestler Henry Cejudo.
After the interview, it's on to UFC Ottawa, and the implications of Stephen Thompson's victory over Rory MacDonald. We take a broad, strategic look at the fight and ask what MacDonald could have done better, while acknowledging just how brilliantly Stephen Thompson outclassed him.
Direct download: 110_demetrious_johnson.mp3
Category:Interview -- posted at: 9:13am EDT
Wed, 11 May 2016
He's here, ladies and gentlemen. The Dominator, the Once and Current King, the UFC Bantamweight Champion of the World . . . Dominick Cruz joins us on this week's episode of Heavy Hands!
Dominick discusses the origins of his unique fighting style, and the immense foresight that goes into it. He also explains how working as an analyst has affected his fighting and vice versa, and describes the mental maturation that was required for him to shake off the injuries that haunted him for so many years while Renan Barao and TJ Dillashaw defended his belt.
After that it's on to UFC 198. We discuss the best fights, including an in-depth discussion of the heavyweight championship fight in the main event, between all-time great Fabricio Werdum and challenger Stipe Miocic. Note: unfortunately we recorded this before news of Anderson Silva's health issues broke, so there is a bit of Silva-Hall discussion near the end.
But you can forgive us for that, right? Dominick Cruz, people!
Enjoy the show!
Direct download: 104_dominick_cruz.mp3
Category:Interview -- posted at: 12:07pm EDT
Wed, 4 May 2016
Bonus episode!
That's right, we were so excited to bring you this episode of Heavy Hands that we just couldn't wait another week. Joining us for a pair of in-depth interviews are two of MMA's best trainers, both of whom brought their fighters to victory at UFC 197.
First up is Brandon Gibson, the striking coach for Jon Jones and numerous other Jackson-Winkeljohn fighters. He makes his return to Heavy Hands to discuss the changes in preparation Jones had to make when Ovince Saint Preux stepped in on just three weeks' notice in lieu of Daniel Cormier. Saint Preux was a dangerous and very different opponent for a fighter and team of trainers usually reliant on extensive preparation, but Jones' dominated the fight and won a one-sided unanimous decision.
Then we welcome Mark Henry to the show. In addition to training Edson Barboza for his career-best victory over Anthony Pettis at 197, Henry works with such elite fighters as Frankie Edgar, Eddie Alvarez, and--a recent addition--former middleweight champion Chris Weidman. All three of these men are preparing for title shots in the near future, and Mark talks extensively about his training methods, which have made him one of the most successful teachers of striking in the sport today.
We hope you enjoy listening to these brilliant trainers as much as we did interviewing them!
Direct download: 103_mark_henry.mp3
Category:Interview -- posted at: 6:47pm EDT
Wed, 6 April 2016
Jackson-Winkeljohn MMA striking coach Brandon Gibson joined the Heavy Hands podcast to discuss his unique view of MMA training, and the preparation of former UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones in the lead-up to UFC 197.
Gibson spoke of Jones' evolution both inside and outside the Octagon: "Despite some of the recent troubles he's had I think Jon has evolved in terms of his mental strength and fortitude. That, more so than any segment of martial arts. He's become mentally stronger. I think Jon might have the highest fight IQ of anybody I've ever trained. He can see patterns, set patterns, disrupt patterns, and fight in all ranges."
Of course Gibson doesn't just work with Jon Jones. He is proud of his individualized approach to training, and recalls times when that focused preparation paid off. "Some of the fights I'm more proud of are ones where we focus on a certain technique or strategy and then it turns out exactly like we planned . . . One of those fights I'm very proud of is Tim Kennedy vs Rafael Natal. Natal liked to circle, and Tim was always known for his grappling prowess, but not really known as being a striker. And I thought we could pressure Natal up against the fence, get him to exit with a lack of defense as he had shown in the past, and then [Tim] could use his level change to set up that monstrous hook that sealed the fight for us."
Following the interview your hosts discuss the most compelling matchups on next weekend's UFC card in Zagreb, Coratia, namely Ben Rothwell vs Junior Dos Santos, Nicolas Dalby vs Zak Cummings, and Mairbek Taisumov vs Damir Hadzovic.
Direct download: 98_brandon_gibson.mp3
Category:Interview -- posted at: 9:40am EDT


text:
Please call our Weddings Team at
(855) 400-0573 for more information about weddings at Meadowood.
Small steps across the lawn, friends and family alongside, the sun overhead, tender vows, first kiss.
Beautiful, joyful, everlasting perfection. Flowers, vases, ribbons, music, lacy flower girls, satin shoes, sighs, smiles, laughter, toasts, long embraces, long life together. We would be honored to share in the planning of your wedding day.
We understand Napa Valley destination weddings like no one else. You and your guests will enjoy both the beauty and privacy of our estate as well as memorable experiences in the surrounding wineries and vineyards if that is your desire. Napa Valley weddings are nothing short of magical. We encourage you to explore our spa experiences customized for the Bride, Groom and wedding party.
Little Black Book: Wedding of the Week 2018 - Mackenzie & Cullen
From the moment they stepped foot on property, Mackenzie and Cullen knew that Meadowood Napa Valley was the perfect place to start their lives together...
Bringing a Big Dose of Modern to This Napa Black Tie Affair
...the Alavis planned a romantic, elegant, black tie affair at Meadowood Napa Valley.
Romantic + Traditional | Bonnie and David
Once upon a time there was a Pittsburg Steeler Groom who had one seriously chic wedding...this Meadowood Napa Valley celebration lands itself in touchdown territory.
Romantic Meadowood Napa Wedding
My vision for the day was timeless romance…it was such a treat to work with this dream team who executed our vision flawlessly…The day was absolutely perfect.
Lissa & Alex | Meadowood Napa Valley
Audrey and Justin | Grey Likes Weddings
Audrey and Justin celebrated their vows at Meadowood Napa Valley...the couple stuck to their love of all-things-modern and designed a glam, backyard wedding.
Carats & Cake - Alex + Charlie
Mahncy & Anish | Martha Stewart Weddings
Snippet & INK - Amanda & Andrew
Modern Wine Country Wedding at Meadowood
Carats & Cake - Nadine + Adam
Becky + Jason | Meadowood Napa Valley
Margaret + Kyle | Meadowood Napa Valley
Julia + Rohan | Meadowood Napa Valley
The Perfect Vintage - A Spectacular 4th of July Wedding Weekend
Julia + Scott | Meadowood Napa Valley | Naval Wedding
The Cana Family | Jessica & Kevin at Meadowood, Napa Valley
Inventive Films | A Love Story About | Katie + Francis
Napa Wedding at Meadowood for Morgan and Hunter
I'm so excited to share this wedding at Meadowood Napa Valley Luxury Resort with y'all!
Meadowood Wedding | Napa Valley | Sloan & Jon
Meadowood has special meaning to me and will always be thought of as, "the one that got away".
Joey & John: A Cheery Citrus-Themed Wedding in Napa Valley
Joey Daley and John Scholl first locked eyes at a party in college. John eventually summoned the courage to strike up a conversation with the beautiful brunette, and the two have been inseparable ever since.
Wine Country Wedding Film | Mia & Alex
Filmed on location in St. Helena, Napa Valley. Come join Mia & Alex as the celebrate their wedding day at the exclusive Meadowood tucked away in the Napa Valley countryside.
Classic Napa Wedding
Claire and Will's breathtaking St. Helena wedding is such a fresh and classic affair to start the new year! Lush rose, hydrangea and orchid blooms in shades of cream and white from Paul Stokey of Tesoro set the stage for an elegant outdoor ceremony at Meadowood Napa Valley.
Napa Valley wedding:
Carrie + Paul
Carrie + Paul's glamorous summer garden party wedding is filled with all sorts of lovely details that we think you're really going to enjoy. Lush floral arrangements, scenic backdrops, delectable foodie fare, and sweet photos by Julie Kay Kelly to name a few.
The Sunday Saloon
Melissa and Alex
Style Unveiled - Holly & Ben
This wedding took place at Meadowood in Napa Valley. From the colors to the personal details to the bride and groom...pure perfection!
Damion Hamilton Photographer
Laura Bush & Joshua Freeman
Destination I Do - Destination Wedding California: This Wine Country Wedding is a True Treat!
With family on both coasts of the United States, Crystal and J explored both options when it came time to plan their destination wedding. However, the couple quickly discovered that St. Helena, California was the way to go...
Photography by Leah
Backyard Bliss: Byron and MacKenzie
Christophe Genty Photography
I'm always in complete awe at just the sheer beauty and seemingly unlimited natural settings Napa Valley provides for magical wedding photographs and Meadowood is certainly no exception. It is GORGEOUS!!!
The Wedding Chicks:
Andrew Weeks Photography
These images are from a very beautiful wedding I just photographed over at the Meadowood Resort in Napa...
Elegant Navy and Grey Summer Wedding
When these law school sweeties set out to plan their summer wedding, pulling off an elegant garden party at Meadowood Napa Valley was at the top of their agenda.
Romantic Napa Valley Fall Wedding
...Paul proposed to Leslie at their favorite Napa getaway, Meadowood, and they decided to get married there the following Fall.
For more detailed pricing or questions please don't hesitate to contact our Wedding Team for a proposal. Call (707) 967-1223 or complete the online Proposal Request.
A memorable wedding day draws its magic from the two people who stand together and say "I do."A wedding of any size in its purest form is about the commitment to love and respect for a lifetime. Exchange your vows in a beautiful, intimate setting...one that will always await your return.
Our elopement package includes the following.
Meadowood Elopement
· A two night stay in a luxurious private suite
· A ceremony officiant
· Decorative floral arrangements
· Bouquet and boutonniere
· Breakfast each morning
· Wedding Reception: champagne and a wedding cake
Please contact us for pricing and availability.
To plan your elopement please call our Wedding Team at (707) 967-1220 or email firstname.lastname@example.com.
We talked to 1,697 recent brides to fond the most spectacular reception sites from coast to coast offering stellar view, creative cuisine, and above-and-beyond service.
Saying "I do" in the sun? Add a new spin to a classic tropical drink, says Artisanal Cocktails author Scott BEattie, who's created bar menus for Meadowood Napa Valley and W South Beach.
Insane farm-to-table cuisine plus bucolic California vineyard landscapes equals a destination perfect for all of your parties
7 Amazing (but Real!) Fantasy Food Destination Weddings We'd Like to Throw Ourselves
Napa Valley wedding guide to the wedding weekend of your dreams.
Napa Valley, 90 minutes north of San Francisco, surprised the world when it stole the winemaking spotlight from France at a blind tasting in 1976.
Find nuptial nivana near the famed wineries of Napa Valley
From spectacular beaches to fairy-tale castles, there's a great vow-cation spot for every kind of couple.
After starting the day with yoga and mountain biking, Jennifer and Eric tied the knot at Meadowood, their favorite place in Northern California.
Michelin-starred food and catering halls are no longer an unlikely pair, as celebrated chefs descend on wedding venues across the country.
The functionality of a tabletop becomes an artistic expression of your wedding as you break bread for the first time as Mr. and Mrs...
Jessica Kardish & Bill Starkov Bill Starkov's wedding vows promised Jessica Kardish a "sparkly" life...
In every issue, we scout a spot that's perfect for tying the knot away from home.
Planning to take a grand tour months after the big day? Book a wine country road trip or retreat to a coastal getaway immediately after the last song plays.
Roses, phalaenopsis orchids, hydrangea
Jillian and Sean chose Napa Valley for their destination wedding, but rather than a wine-cave setting, they envisioned an East Coast–style country club...
Together Forever
Croquet cocktail parties with yummy local sips are de rigueur at tony Meadowood...
The quixotic gardens, mossy tree canopies and well-tended vineyards of northern California's scenic Napa Valley set a storybook backdrop for Happily Ever to Begin in earnest...


text:
This short video clip shows the damage to MTB 18 after ramming an enemy boat. Best viewed in 'Large Screen'
This unique example of silent video footage is from British Pathe. We are hoping to secure a license with which we hope to add similar clips in the future.
According to Leonard Reynolds in Home Waters MTB's & MGBs at War, Lt JT Manooch RN, CO of MTB 18, had thought he was about to ram an enemy S boat but too late he realised that the boat was a more robust minesweeper.
[click image]


text:
Ice cream is always a crowd-pleaser. Kids of all ages (that includes us adults) love to not only eat it but make it too. Once of the bonuses of making your own ice cream for kids and parents is that you can control what goes into it — no preservatives or artificial flavorings, only the freshest of ingredients. Plus, it's simply fun to create your own ice cream flavors.
I am giving away a fantastic kitchen appliance that can help you get creative with the homemade frozen stuff in the kitchen, a Cuisinart ICE-30BC Pure Indulgence 2-Quart Automatic Frozen Yogurt, Sorbet, and Ice Cream Maker. This Cuisinart ice cream maker features "an integrated motor, double-insulated freezer bowl and automatic mixing paddle do all the work." It's also BPA Free.
To enter to win this Cuisinart Frozen Yogurt, Sorbet and Ice Cream Maker, simply leave a comment (before Sunday, August 18, 2013 at 11:59PM ET) here on my website revealing what flavor of ice cream (or yogurt or sorbet) you would make if you had this product.
I will be giving away a new kitchen appliance each Tuesday in August, so check back often!
*One winner will be selected at random. This giveaway is limited to entrants residing in the United States only. The winner must respond to the email letting them know they have won within five days to claim their prize. In the event that the first winner doesn't respond, another entrant will be selected at random and will be eligible to claim the prize. UPDATE: Congrats to Anne F., who was selected as the winner!


text:
We may not be celebrating a fabulous summer but now the leaves are turning and the thought of cosy nights indoors arrive who cares about summer – bring on Autumn!
It must one of the easiest seasons to dress for – why? well it's simple just follow the colours of nature surrounding you.
Seasonal Autumn Colours
Yellows, rusts, golds and muted greens all complement each other and reflect the season perfectly. Keeping with nature choose natural materials e.g organic cottons, wool, and bamboo.
Zigzag Ankle Boots – beyond skin
Whichever colours you choose this Autumn we're sure the crisp days and stunning changes in nature will keep you smiling through to the winter holidays.
Have a favourite autumn piece? Share it with us via the comments below.


text:
I can not express how impressed I was with the staff at the Hilton Sofia Bulgaria, never have I been to a hotel that every member of staff stood out as special. I think the staff follows the lead of the General Manager of this hotel, Mr. Jacques Brune. He welcomed me at check in as a Diamond member, he walked by the Executive lounge and spotted me in the lounge he stopped in for a chat. It was clear that Mr. Brune has pride in his hotel and staff. I did find this very interesting article about Mr. Brune and how his goal is to have the Hilton make Sofia an important business destination.
As a Hilton Diamond I was upgraded to a Executive room, given lounge access, and also full Breakfast in the "Seasons" Restaurant. Because I was upgraded to the executive room, I was also provided FREE round trip airport transportation in the Hilton vans. Talk about a nice unexpected surprise!
At check in I knew this was going to be a place that I liked, the agent thanked me for being a Diamond, told me I was upgraded, gave me a run down of the perks and hotel features.
The Executive lounge at this hotel is located on the first floor (one up from the lobby level) it is next too the Hilton Meetings desk, and sits with all the meeting rooms. As a Executive room guest you have access to the Business center that has staff on hand during business hours. The lounge was good, there was no noticeable check to see if guest using the lounge really had access or not. Typical service, breakfast in the AM (during my stay the lounge was closed in the AM and guest were told to use the restaurant) afternoon soft-drinks, beer and tea were on offer with some finger-foods. Around 5:30pm the full offering of alcohol was out and stayed out till 11pm. Two hot items and other small food items were out from 6pm-8:30pm.
My room was a good size, I had a large fruit basket, wine, and water in the room as a welcome gift. The bathroom was a very good size with shower and tub. It was clear the rooms were renovated not that long ago. The TV in the room allowed you to input your external devices easily! There was also like 80 stations from around the world in the room. Beds were very nice, it was a very enjoyable place to stay for 3 nights. Two new bottles of water were provided daily.
The location of the hotel is also very good you can walk to any of the major spots in town. I did do a day trip outside the city that the helpful staff helped arrange. We booked a taxi for the day ~100.00 Euro for 8 hours, drove around the country side and stopped a very nice monastery. It was clear the hotel had a very good relationship with this taxi driver who was very nice.
The hotel bar in the lobby area also ran a "Classic Special" Burger Fry and a Beer for 19BNG that about USD not bad for a really good burger in a hotel bar in Europe. The burger was good, and the service was tops.
Breakfast in the "Seasons" restaurant was also good, made to order pancakes and omelets. The staff was always filling up my OJ, and taking away dirty items. True service! They also used my name when ever they asked a question, the little things that go a long way. Very impressive staff in the restaurant.
This hotel just celebrated 10 years you can see the cool 3D projection show they did on the front of the hotel here:
If you like good service and a nice place to stay, this hotel is for you. Hilton has a winner in Sofia!


text:
The Voters Prize Chest is one reason the public participate in the British Travel Awards. Become a Voters Prize Draw Partner to stand out from the competition.
Actual advertisement size 80mm x 4 columns in national newspapers, marginal difference in column width of regional titles.
Our national media partner - Reach Solutions has offered unprecedented access to advertising space with over 200 inserts and editorial coverage across their national, regional newspapers and online content to promote the British Travel Awards.
This exposure will reach a vast audience and offer competing companies the opportunity to address them by becoming a Voter Prize Draw Partner.
We have five advertisement packages available starting from as little as £998, which combined with your prize offering with a value of at least £500 represents incredible value for money.
This exclusive opportunity is only available to companies that have registered as nominees in the British Travel Awards 2020. For maximum benefit from this offer contact us by 31st May so your prize is published for the life of the voting cycle.
This campaign runs throughout the voting cycle from 27 July to 25 October. Its primary purpose - to drive consumers to the British Travel Awards website and vote. As a condition of the offer, all advertisements are overlaid with the British Travel Awards template.
You are free to determine the message of your advertisement copy but you must not imply that voters can only win a prize if they vote for your company.
Travel columnists from the Express, Mirror, Star, Scottish Daily Record and Sunday Mail will feature the British Travel Awards throughout the voting cycle and are eager for stories that engage their audience with the consumer voting programme. What could be more relevant than to build an editorial profile around your company initiated by the possibility of their readers winning your prize? So - the bigger the prize, the more media interest it will generate.
The voter prize incentive advertisement space is guaranteed and the newspaper titles and insert dates will be at our discretion. Editorial features will be coordinated by our Media Liaison Manager who will contact you if a newspaper wants to feature your prize (any editorial features will be determined by the travel editor of each title).
Check out 2019 press coverage in the BTA Trade & Media Newszone
As well as your selected advertising option, every package includes:
- Full details of your prize offering including your logo and prize image on the Prize Chest page of the British Travel Awards website from 27 July (or agreement date if later) until 25 October 2020.
- Prize image, your logo and prize headline on the British Travel Awards home page slideshow as the above dates.
- One seat at the British Travel Awards Gala Ceremony 27th November (value £310 plus VAT) for every option booked.
Rate Card
|BTA Prize
|Option A
2 national and 4 regional press advertisements
between 27 July and 25 October
|Option B
2 national and 2 regional press advertisements
between 27 July and 25 October
|Option C
1 national and 3 regional press advertisements
between 27 July and 25 October
|Option D
2 national press advertisements
between 27 July and 25 October
|Option E
3 regional press advertisements
between 27 July and 25 October
For further details and to place a booking, please email email@example.com
Click here to apply for award(s) category listing. The nomination fee is £150 plus VAT per category. Take advantage of our "3 for 2" offer, register for two categories and select a third complimentary category entry.