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22 Amp Mobility Batteries saved the day for Child's Christmas Present
Two new 22 Amp Mobility Batteries saved the day.
Every now and then we get a letter from a customer who needs our help. Sometimes we do not know if they are genuine or just some person trying it on. Last Christmas we learned about
a lady in Lancashire called Eileen. I bumped into Eileen when delivering a battery to a customer's house and she was in the property next door, tending to her friends horse (cleaning the stables out). Eileen looked very short and I noticed that she had no legs.
When Eileen saw the battery signage on my van she came over and told me that she had a wheel chair but could not afford to buy any. This tugged on my heart strings and as soon as I got back to Halifax, I sorted out two new 34 amp Lucas mobility batteries at took them back to Lancashire to give to Eileen as a Christmas present. I had to leave the batteries with the guy next door because Eileen was not at home, but a couple of days later, I received a very nice thank you letter in the form of a Christmas card from Eileen.
Then a similar thing happened just before this Christmas 2013. We received an e-mail from a guy in Devon who was making a three wheel electric bike for his sons Christmas present. He had problems with another online company who had sent him the wrong batteries. For some reason the company could not be contacted online or by telephone. I also tried out this company, but could not get any reply.
Mobility batteries sent out to Devon
His son was a very ill young man and so this bike was going to mean the World to him as he needed one with a small electric battery driven engine, his son could not peddle like a healthy child could. The guy was desperate and had no money and asked us for help. I remembered what had happened to Eileen the year before and so decided to give him two 22 Amp Mobility Batteries, which fitted his bike.
The guy in Devon was over the moon and could not thank us enough for our help. His son had a Christmas present that worked thanks to the 22 Amp Mobility Batteries and I was pleased to be able to help someone in distress.
Eric Roberts
Hi I would like to introduce myself. Working in the Garage and tyre and Battery business now for 40 years. So. worked for a couple of national tyre companies before starting my first business. Of course, I now own a company here in the UK called Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre. Blogging about anything to do with cars and their related products. Naturally, that will help my business. We are members of Point-S and Trading Standards and are also a Unipart Car Care Centre.


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Governor Greg Abbott said the federal Renewable Fuel Standard is stunting oil and gas refineries and threatening jobs in Texas. But refineries on the Gulf Coast aren't exactly struggling.
Per that federal mandate, refineries have to include in their mix a certain amount of "renewable" fuels like ethanol. Facilities owned by majors like ExxonMobil can handle the requirement, but that's not always the case with smaller refineries. So, the smaller ones buy renewable fuel credits instead.
Abbott is asking the Environmental Protection Agency to give Texas a pass on that part of the program.
In a letter to EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt, Abbott said rising costs for the credits are causing a "severe economic hardship" for refineries and blocking new projects.
Still, that doesn't mean it's all doom and gloom in the refining sector.
"U.S. refining capacity is at an all-time record as we speak today," said Houston oil and gas consultant Andrew Lipow.
Lipow said while the credits can be costly, they aren't necessarily killing the sector.
"We have seen a number of expansions led by Valero at McKee, Corpus Christi and Houston, and we've had some grassroots construction of what are known as 'splitters' down in the Corpus Christi and Houston area," Lipow said.
Still, refineries do broadly oppose renewable fuel standards, and the smaller players want a fairer playing field against the big ones.
An EPA spokesperson said the agency is reviewing the governor's request and "will respond through the proper channels."
The agency recently dealt a blow to refiners when it turned down their proposals to change the renewable fuels program.

subset: commoncrawl


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Last Sunday Mila and I traveled over the mountains to Seattle, just the two of us. She's finally at the perfect age to just go with the flow, I didn't have to worry about nap time or packing a diaper bag in case she had an accident. It was great, I can't wait to take more little trips with her. Randomly I would turn around to look at her and she would smile at me and say, "Love you," it was the best :)
We left around 8:15, not in a rush or anything and it would have been fine if we needed to stop along the way but we never did. However there was a lot of, "Mom are we in Seattle yet?"
Woodland Park Zoo was our first stop. I had an umbrella stroller in the back of my car that I thought about taking in but decided against it since she is 4 1/2, but I should have remembered that she is the world's laziest 4 1/2-year-old because she made it about 20 feet before whining about walking...long story short we rented a dumb wagon for $9.
Most of the animals were either sleeping or too far away. The bears on the other hand out on quite a show, in the little cave view area we could see the two brown bears wrestling each other in the water, it was really neat!
After walking around for 2 hours it was time to go. On our way back to return the wagon she spotted the carousel, this was the highlight for her.
Our next stop was the Patagonia store to exchange David's hat for a smaller size, Mila chatted up the cashier for a bit and then we were on our way. We walked a couple of blocks to the market for some goodies.
My plan was to walk to Nordstrom to exchange some shoes but I didn't think Mila would be up for the trek, instead we made our way to bell square. I was planning on going over the 520 bridge but guess what?!?! It was closed! So I had to drive all the way back down to I-90 and go that way.
We shopped for a few hours, ate some pizza and got back in the car around 5:30.
Ran into construction/wreck near Cle Elum which added 30 minutes to our drive and finally made it home around 8:15.
Every now and then throughout the day she would say things like, "Just me and mama, no brothers!" or "Just love our 'Girl's Day' mama!"
We had a blast, so glad I have a daughter!
Instagram pics from our day:


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Check your start date in the cart! Online registration closes the Sunday a week prior to the week of program. After you finalize your purchase, if you need an earlier start date, please contact Craig Houston, School Age Child Care Director, at 603.232.8670 or firstname.lastname@example.com for assistance.
The Y's School Age Child Care (SACC) is a fun, safe and productive way for your child to spend their time before and after school. SACC offers a wide range of activities including structured homework time, physical fitness, arts & crafts, and thematic programs with a variety of enrichment opportunities including swim lessons, sports and more!
Please note that payments will be withdrawn two (2) days prior to each week of childcare.
The Y-Kids program serves the following schools by bus:
Bakersville, Gossler, Jewett, Hallsville, McDonough, North West, Parker Varney and Smyth Road


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7 Aug 2017 18:00 - 19 Aug 2017 23:00
Lipa at Jerusalem Arts and Crafts Fair
Annually, Czech Centre Tel Aviv participates at the Jerusalem Arts and Crafts Fair. This year we are happy to present a story of the legacy of Czech crafts in combination with modern design created by studio Lipa.
Lípa is the place where you won't find any of typical souvenirs from Czechia as there is not much of Czech on them. The team of designers wants something else for you - gifts you can bring your family, friends and colleagues and proudly say they are from Czechia. Designed in Prague, the hearth of Czechia, connected with traditional symbol of our country - the linden tree - lípa. Connected with a symbol of love, tradition, stability, hot summer shelter with stupefying scent, cure of longevity. Connected with a tree which is majestic as Czechia.
The Jerusalem Arts and Crafts Fair is designed for people of all ages, especially families, and takes place in the Sultan's Pool and Mitchell Gardens which lie just across from the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem, opposite the Tower of David. Artists, such as designers, painters, sculptors, and jewelers, represent continents from around the world, including Central and South America, Asia, Europe, and Africa.
The fair opens daily Sunday to Thursday from 6 pm to 11 pm, Friday it is closed, and Saturday the fair runs from 9pm to midnight.
Photo: Pavlina Schultz
Venue:Sultan's Pool, Jerusalem
From: 7 Aug 2017 18:00
To: 19 Aug 2017 23:00
Czech Center is a coorganizer of the event
Date 9 Aug 2017 15:32:00


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AKA Marie Flayer, Independent Close To My Heart Consultant. Welcome to my creative corner of the kingdom where I'll be sharing whatever pleases me.
I love Dreamin' and I REALLY love all of the old Quickcard stamps! I had to run and dig out mine when I saw the 2 in the new Idea Book! Wish they'd bring them all back! :) Great card, Marie!
Such fun colors and a great card! Thanks for playing along with Mojo Monday 300!
Your comments are always appreciated.


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Web Spinner DVD - Amazing JoeJoe
I thought everythong he told you was very good but, i wish he would have explained more about other tricks and set ups. I thought it was expensive for a 45 minute video. But yes for tje most part I really like the movie and joejoe.
Date Added: 04/17/2013 by bryan s


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"In an age like ours, in which the principle of authority is grievously disturbed, it is absolutely necessary that the priest, keeping the precepts of faith firmly in mind, should consider and duly accept this same authority, not only as the bulwark of the social and religious order, but also as the foundation of his own personal sanctification."
-- Pope Pius XII (Menti Nostrae)
Prayer for Priests (Cardinal Carberry)
O Jesus, our great High Priest, Hear my humble prayers on behalf of your priest, Father [N]. Give him a deep faith a bright and firm hope and a burning love which will ever increase in the course of his priestly life.
In his loneliness, comfort him. In his sorrows, strengthen him. In his frustrations, point out to him that it is through suffering that the soul is purified, and show him that he is needed by the Church,he is needed by souls, he is needed for the work of redemption.
O loving Mother Mary, Mother of Priests, take to your heart your son who is close to you because of his priestly ordination, and because of the power which he has received to carry on the work of Christ in a world which needs him so much.
Be his comfort, be his joy, be his strength,and especially help him to live and to defend the ideals of consecrated celibacy. Amen.


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Thursday, 25 February 2016
Chainsaw Carving
It is truly entertaining in a "I wonder if he'll cut off his arm" sort of way, but truly, what do you do with it when he's finished?
Garden fish in Camphor.
© Sunshine Coast Daily Photo - Australia
1 comment
- William Kendall said...
Quite a difference in material from what I've been showing! Good work, too!
- 25 February 2016 at 11:05
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© Sunshine Coast Daily Photo
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Historical documents
230 Minute From Durie To Menzies
Japanese Trade Agreement-Deputation from ACMA
For your meeting with ACMA this afternoon, Jones has prepared the
attached papers. They comprise:
(a) A general note;
(b) A brief outline of the provisions of the Agreement;
(c) A commentary on the particular points made in the ACMA letter.
Also attached is a copy of the letter from the Chambers and a copy
of the Agreement.
The following observations may be helpful in determining the
response to the deputation.
(1) Tariff Protection Policy. It would be reasonable to say that
this is not an entirely relevant argument. Whether or not
manufacturers are dissatisfied about the Government's general
tariff policy and the recent treatment of individual Tariff Board
reports, is not a principal factor in considering the Trade
Agreement with Japan. In any event, Mr McEwen has already said
publicly that these matters are being considered and no doubt he
would welcome the considered views of the Chambers of
Manufacturers on this problem.
(2) Emergency Action under the Agreement. This appears to be the
key to the complaint. The Chambers have either misunderstood or do
not accept Mr McEwen's assurances that the Agreement entitles us
to take emergency action in certain circumstances. The fact is
that if the Agreement does not allow emergency action, then the
whole Agreement must be regarded as one of the most successful
confidence tricks of all time.
However, I imagine that the real concern of the Chambers is their
expectation that Mr McEwen will be unwilling rather than unable
and in the event the Chambers will undoubtedly claim that they
were right in their expectations because they will produce
individual cases where, in their view, emergency action was
clearly needed but the Government failed to act.
There are, therefore, two aspects of the problem. The first is
that clearly the Government has a right to emergency action; the
second is that the Government is not going to be panicked into
using that action every time the Chambers of Manufacturers make a
claim. The Agreement has got to be given an opportunity to work
and it would perhaps be as well to be quite frank in putting it to
the Chambers that the Government would expect that the use of the
emergency provisions would be the rare exception.
(3) Japanese Voluntary Restraint. It will not be possible now or
in the future to convince the Chambers of Manufacturers that this
is a worthwhile provision and that Japanese intentions are
honourable. The Government could be well satisfied that the
provision is working effectively, but it only takes one
manufacturer to claim that Japanese imports have put him out of
business and the undertaking is discredited. There will be
references to Canadian experience where the Government and
officials have been well satisfied with the arrangement, but not
manufacturers, and the case just cannot be proved. It is only left
to us to emphasise our belief in the efficacy of the arrangement
and the Government's view that this provision is an integral part
of the Agreement and if it does not work to the Government's
satisfaction, the whole Agreement is invalidated.


text: BadVlad Posted April 27, 2019 Ive been following the discussions on running speed and there seem to be two major camps on the subject, one thinks the increased running speed makes the game too arcady/COD in close quarters ... and they are right, the other camp thinks the speed increase makes the game less of a running simulator, especially on large maps ... and they are also correct. I personally agree with both camps, i like the running speed but i dont like the arcady gameplay, i believe a way to properly fix the problem is to introduce a delay between running at full sprint and firing, that way a person taking it slower around a corner gets an advantage over someone sprinting around trying to speed frag, this way we get to keep the speed for large maps and remove the COD shooting garbage. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites


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The latest, greatest Belinda meme from an adorable reader. Thank you, Shirley K.
Click the titles below for the first two installments.
The latest, greatest Belinda meme from an adorable reader. Thank you, Shirley K.
The Erotic Adventures of Belinda are available now.
Click the titles below for the first two installments.
The latest e-poster form the The Erotic Adventures of Belinda series
When Belinda Moorland steps across the threshold of Ravencrest Manor, she feels as if she's entered a fantasy world. The mansion is breathtaking, and her new employer, Eric Manning, is as mysterious as he is handsome.
But after just one night, she begins to suspect there is more to Ravencrest than she was told. Haunted by nightmares and seduced by erotic dreams, Belinda realizes her new home has a dark side. By day, the house and grounds are sublime, but the night is alive with dark shadows and phantom footsteps in empty corridors. Eyes – and hands – are upon her, and not all of them belong to the living.
The third installment of Belinda, titled Darker Shadows, is underway and will be available in September. The first two installments, The New Governess, and Awakening, are available now! Click on the titles below to read them.
Here's what people are saying about Belinda:
"If you've finished all of Sylvia Day's Crossfires novels and are craving more, look no further. In The Erotic Adventures of Belinda, Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross have created a world that is rich, opulent, and smoldering with the promise of seduction. You'll be able to feel the slide of the satin sheets, taste the fizz of champagne."
-Sylvia Shults, author of Double Double Love and Trouble
"The Erotic Adventures of Belinda" by Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross is a fun, intricate read. The erotica is well crafted and the ornate setting descriptions are breath-taking. Most importantly, from page one, readers fall in love with Belinda. We care about what happens to her, and we hope exactly what that is remains deliciously extensive!"
-Michael Aronovitz: author of Alice Walks
"Shocking and fun! The Erotic Adventures of Belinda by Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross will leaving you shivering with excitement as the innocent Belinda breaks free of a minimum-wage hell hole only to move into a sprawling Gothic estate where her body becomes the focal point of a mysterious specter. Out of the pan and into the fire? Only time will tell."
-William Malmborg, author of Jimmy and Text Message
The latest Belinda meme from a reader!
Two installments of The Erotic Adventures of Belinda are now available in e-format. The third installment, Darker Shadows, is underway…
#1 The New Governess – http://www.amazon.com/Governess-Erotic-Adventures-Belinda-Book-ebook/dp/B00M0DU4XS/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1406311283&sr=8-6&keywords=the+new+governess
#2 Awakening – http://www.amazon.com/Awakening-Erotic-Adventures-Belinda-2-ebook/dp/B00LZGDQSG/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1405968423&sr=1-1&keywords=awakening+belinda
In The New Governess, Belinda Moorland became governess to the children of handsome and mysterious millionaire, Eric Manning. She met several interesting employees at Ravencrest Manor, including the mischievous butler, Grant, and the frightening house administrator, Mrs. Heller. During her first night, Belinda was also greeted – and groped – by other inhabitants of the house; ones who are more phantom than flesh.
The second installment of The Erotic Adventures of Belinda, Awakening, is now live on Amazon! In coming weeks, it will be available in all other formats, too.
Naming characters is a surprisingly phenomenal thing, because, more often than not, they name themselves – as strange as that sounds. What I mean is that they tend to present themselves to their authors fully-formed; they know their own appearances, personalities, and often, they come pre-named. That being said, this wasn't the way it worked with Belinda.
The name Belinda and I go way back, but first, I thought its historical meaning was interesting. As I researched it, the name struck me as fitting for this story line because in German, Italian, and American, Belinda means: From the Old German Betlindis, which is derived from the word for snake. Images of snakes draw my mind to the Garden of Eden scene in the bible, and Belinda's story, at its roots, is one of a similar nature.
Still, as interesting as this was to learn, it wasn't the reason I wanted to use the name Belinda. My reason, I'm afraid, was far simpler.
When I was a kid, I happened upon a book called The Ghost That Goofed by Edith W. Boutelle. This little book had everything I wanted in a story at the time: a ghost, a talking pet, and a grand Halloween party. The ghost's name, of course, was Belinda. (I feel I need to note here that Boutelle's ghost and our Belinda Moorland, of The Erotic Adventures of Belinda, have nothing in common except the name.) But this wonderful little book, I believe, set the course for me in terms of storytelling, and because of that, I've long wanted to pay some kind of tribute to it. Unfortunately, that has not turned out to be an easy task.
I have tried to use the name Belinda in just about everything I've previously written, and for one reason or another, up until The Erotic Adventures of Belinda, it hasn't worked out. Belinda is a strong name and not – in my mind – well suited for a minor character. As for main characters, like I said, they tend to name themselves, and none of them jumped up and said, I'm Belinda! I'm Belinda! Then, on the few occasions that I did find a suitable place for the name, I was told no.
No, because it stands out too much.
No, because it's too long and unusual.
No, because it will remind readers of Belinda Carlisle.
While I had my doubts that the front woman of the Go-Go's really dominated the consciousness of today's audience – and I certainly didn't think the name was too lengthy or foreign for readers to manage – I was new to the business and I took advice easily. Too easily. But I think these things happen for a reason.
When Tamara Thorne and I began to discuss writing an erotic serialization, I knew Belinda was our girl. But I also knew that Tamara had to agree to it. After all, if she had wanted to name our heroine Gonzarella, I would not have been pleased – and I owe Tamara the same respect. We both had to love this name. So I didn't present it to her right away. I would wait till the time was just right, then – like the snake that the name Belinda is derived from – I would strike! But as fate would have it, I didn't need to do that.
Tamara knew about The Ghost That Goofed. She knew how much I loved that story, and when it came time to name our girl, Tamara herself basically suggested 'Belinda' when she asked me, "What was the name of that ghost you loved as a kid?"
"Belinda," I said.
She thought about it for about three seconds and said, "I think that would be perfect here."
And with every cell in my body, I knew she was right, and I was suddenly very glad that I hadn't used the name somewhere else.
That was many many months ago, and since then, Belinda's first installment, The New Governess, has been released. Her second installment, Awakening, is in the last stages of publication and will be available in a matter of days.
Belinda's is a story of handsy spirits, envy and ecstasy, the elusive hit-and-miss nature of love, and magic of the right and wrong kinds, all set in a beautiful Gothic mansion on a breathtaking estate. On the surface, it's a fun little romp down the haunted hallways of Ravencrest Manor – but at its core, it's a story about a woman coming into full possession of her sexuality; a woman harnessing her own power, and this new installment, Awakening, is aptly titled. This is where it really begins for her.
I've never had as much fun writing anything as I have this story. It's a pleasure to sit down to every day… and I happen to think her name, Belinda, is just right. I'm grateful to Tamara for agreeing with me on that.
And that's the story behind the name…
Our article, Extreme Collaborating, is up at Beneath the Lake: On Writing Horror. In it, we discuss our unique form of collaboration – how we get in the Cloud and literally write together, often in the same paragraph. Go on over to Crystal Lake Publishing and check it out. While you're there, look around; you'll see all kinds of good stuff!
Meanwhile, back at the old Thorney-Cross Ranch, we've put the final touches – and strokes – on Belinda's second installment, Awakening, and you'll be holding and caressing her with your warm, loving hands very soon! The first installment, The New Governess, is available now!
Here is the (almost) finalized cover for Awakening, the second installment of The Erotic Adventures of Belinda, due out later this month!


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This is a really unique gift item. We use genuine vintage stamps from around the world to make a unique keyring, The keyring is presented in a black box, with information about the stamp including the country and year of issue, plus details about the actual stamp image and a full stamp. As no two stamps will ever be exactly the same, postmarks will vary.
The keyring is made of a hardwearing black leather and the stamps are covered with a crystal clear resin dome that magnifies and protects the image, making them durable and scratchproof.
Some of our most requested stamps are available to order via the drop down selection list. If, however, you are looking for something specific (every pair is different and we can make keyrings to order), please email firstname.lastname@example.com and let us know what interests you. We are often asked for particular countries, colours, years and topics (e.g. birds, sport) and will source stamps for you and then send you a photo for approval. If you like the stamps, then we will make them into a bespoke keyring!


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A non-profit clay arts studio providing a home for a growing clay arts community. We offer ceramics classes and host workshops by nationally and internationally recognized visiting artists.
ClaySpace NFP was conceived by a small group of people who formed a bond while taking continuing education ceramics classes. They envisioned a studio where one could study and work free of the constraints of the traditional college model. Their divergent backgrounds and educational disciplines came together in a shared desire to cultivate their learning in the ceramic arts. Pooling their talents and resources they created a studio that addressed their wishes, founding ClaySpace NFP in 2006 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Illinois corporation designed to provide a rich learning and working environment to its members, as well as offer ceramic classes to the public at large.
Our Mission
To develop, sustain and promote a nonprofit art-centered community that provides outstanding educational, artistic and collaborative programs in the ceramic arts to its Resident Artists and to the general public.
There is great joy in creating a new work in glass or clay, starting with raw material headed towards a desired outcome. The process of building the new work teaches patience, eases anxiety, and can show us a new way of being. Each creation in glass or clay sets in motion the maker's energy which is then made permanent through fire. The end result is a physical memory that can last for generations or break into pieces if dropped. Even broken, there is much to be learned. Children and adults build on life skills by working in the arts. Communication, problem solving, fine motor, social, and emotional skills are all honed as the person enters the world of creation, learning ay each step of the process lessons not taught in their daily routine. This is a process as opposed to a product, it is not necessary to create a masterpiece to have a meaningful experience. ClaySpace endeavors to provide this experience on multiple levels for all those involved in the mission.
Our Resident Artists members receive full and unlimited access to the studio and equipment and are also responsible for active participation in running of the enterprise.
The internship program is designed as an extension of the educational experience for individuals seriously planning to pursue a career in the ceramic arts. Our intention is to provide a supportive, mentoring environment to assist the intern in developing the skills needed for the next level of their ceramic career. Click here for the online application.
Classes are taught by experienced educators and are available for all levels of ceramics knowledge. Customized classes can be designed for special subjects or to host events such as team building exercises, anniversary events, as well as kid friendly events such as birthday parties and scout events.
Our on-site gallery features work by our resident artists, interns and students.
ClaySpace regularly hosts workshops conducted by notable local artists as well as internationally celebrated artists.
Empty Bowls
Participating in the Naperville Women's Club Art Fair, ClaySpace added
approximately $3,000 to the Empty Bowls campaign. Empty Bowls is an
international effort by potters and other artists to raise money for local food
pantries. ClaySpace members and students produced work to sell at the fair, the
proceeds of which help to fight hunger.


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By Sha' (a fun post from my personal blog)
I'm a Libra. If you tell me you are a Libra, there are certain traits I'll look for you to have: a strong sense of balance about life, a forest outlook rather than a tree view (see the big picture), enjoy being social (even if it's just with YOUR friends instead of general groups), be creative in some way (ability to draw, deep understanding of music, etc…), have a great sense of humor, be a peacemaker and a few other things.
I can tell you that we have an internal barometer that takes in information that is used by our "scale".
If we are off balance, all hell can break loose. We will miss you but if you are causing that scale to tip in the wrong direction too many times….BYE! We love our happiness but more so, we treasure it. If we are unhappy, we can't function. It flows into everything we do and by any means necessary we HAVE to get back to happy. We often make rash decisions and mistakes when desperately trying to get back to happy. BUT when we are happy, all is right with the world and we spread joy where ever we go.
I love a Libra. Four very important people in my life are Libras: my Nanna, my oldest son, my soul mate of a friend Shelia and my brother Shunii (Libra²). I am also connected to a few other Libras in the goings on of my life. Shout out to LaVonda, Isaac, Myesha, Wendy, my niece Nyla and my nephew Ryan. A few celebrities that are Libras: Former President Jimmy Carter, Lil Wayne, Mahatma Gandhi, Will Smith and Gwen Stefani. Quick shout out to local celeb & Dee's boo…Eskimo Joe. Scale Lyfe!!!!
I do believe that most people's personality and way of doing things is described in the basic description of their zodiac sign. I do NOT believe every Libra has every Libra trait. I do NOT believe in horoscopes. Horoscopes are the telling of your future based on your zodiac sign. Your zodiac sign is based on your birthdate and simply have specific traits that each person under your sign is likely to have a combination of that makes them uniquely alike. Big, no HUGE difference. I mean they even have horoscopes for dogs. Really? That's what's hot in the streets?
No one should live their life totally by the zodiac nor horoscopes. You do not have to follow it, it is not a leader. You don't have to believe in it, it is not a religion. As with anything else, the average person under a certain zodiac sign is most likely to have certain characteristics. It's no different than other classifications. There is always some exceptions to the normal. Also true of any classification, there is a range. From extreme to moderate to not really… there is an array of ways the traits within a zodiac sign's notable traits can be displayed. Because men and women are different, you have to expect that a male Libra will display a different spin to the same trait than a female Libra. Always take that into consideration. But when looking at the traits, don't just look at the positive traits. There are common negative traits associated with a zodiac sign too. As with the good traits, EVERY negative trait won't fit EVERY person under a zodiac sign. I'm sure my close friends are looking at some the traits listed under Libra with an eye brow raised because some don't pertain to me at all.
Now with those disclaimers please know it doesn't affect me if you think it's bullshit, voodoo, etc… Read on if you wish or stop right here. IDGAF What I will say is being educated on the traits of the zodiac signs is helpful with interpersonal relations.
I'm not "up on" all the zodiac sign traits. I have people in my life like Keisha Bennett and Coleridge Tillman (aka Sebsatian Kole) that could probably run down each sign to you without missing a beat. I can only tell you about the signs I have the most experience with (mostly meaning a family member, an ex-lover or one of the few people that are adverse to me). I happen to know about Cancers because I am greatly attracted to Cancer men. I happen to know a huge amount about the sign of Aquarius because my mother and my sister Pasocca are under that sign, so is my greatest love. I can give you a little insight on a Sagittarius because two of my sons are under that sign. I am very close to a few Aries, Scorpios and Capricorns, therefore I can give you a little on them as well. But anytime I'm having a problem with someone or I wish to know more about them, I look up their zodiac sign. What I don't do is hold them to EVERY trait listed under their sign. I simply look for traits that could be the reason for their behavior. All people aren't open about themselves. Some people don't even know why they do the things they do. BUT if you care enough to figure them out, why not consider the inside information that zodiac traits can give you? If you can't figure out why Bob has suddenly pulled back from you and isn't around as much, why not look up Aquarius and find out that he probably needs his space but he'll be back so don't stalk or bug him. If Kim was a cool down to earth girl when you met her but now she seems to be acting erratic and you can't figure out what you did to make her act like that, then why not look up Cancer and find out that she's naturally moody and it probably has nothing to do with you but the bad mood will pass….but come back again and again. To know things like that simply make dealing with the other person less stressful. It goes to understanding them a little better. It should also open the door to conversation. Ask Kim if people in her life thinks she's moody. If she's aware of that fact then she'll probably hang her head and tell you that people tell her that all the time. Ask Bob if you've done anything to him to make him not want to hang around you as much lately. He'll probably tell you it has nothing to do with you and that things between you two are great then plan you're next interaction.
Dealing with other people can be hard sometimes. Why not use all the information you can as a resource? Maybe you'll understand your child better, "get" that anal co-worker more, know how to improve your dealings with that difficult boss,
see where your friend is coming from, etc… If you can go by what a friend says about someone, then why can't the zodiac be your friend? I betcha my friend zodiac is correct more often than that gossip of a friend you have!!


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Apple has sent out invites to an event taking place in Chicago at 4pm BST today, 27 March, and speculation is building that a new iPad, a cheaper MacBook Air, and an upgraded iPhone SE – the iPhone SE 2 – are going to be unveiled.
Nothing has been officially confirmed by Apple, but the launch of one or more of these three new products would make sense. That's in part due to some recent Apple news leaks, but also because the event, which is taking place at a high school, is billed as focusing on "creative new ideas for teachers and students", which suggests products at the affordable end of the company's line-up.
- New, cheaper iPad for education isn't even official yet and it has its first Chrome OS tablet rival
- How to follow the March 2018 iPad event live
Considering that an updated new iPad range, including a bezel-free iPad Pro 2018, has reportedly been in development, we feel that Apple could easily relaunch its current iPad as a new, more affordable model with Apple Pencil support, aimed at teachers and students. Our colleagues at TechRadar also reckon that the Apple Pencil itself might get a refresh.
Further, two weeks ago we reported that a more affordable MacBook Air was on its way, with a respected smartphone analyst indicating Apple was looking to enter the lower price band for laptops this year.
In addition, two days ago we also reported on a leaked video that apparently shows off the iPhone SE 2, an upgraded version of Apple's budget iPhone SE mobile phone with a new iPhone X-inspired design, so again we feel it's perfectly plausible that a new affordable handset could launch next week.
While Apple may still save some of its new hardware reveals for WWDC 2018, which kicks off on 4 June, this dedicated, invite-only Apple event in Chicago seems to indicate something major is about to land.
Be sure to check back in to T3 later today for the full story.


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I ADMIRE the man for his conviction, for standing up for his principles, for not listening to his idols and mentors on what he has to do, for having deaf ears on their never-ending opinions for him to stop innovating, to back out and forget the idea of challenging this world's perspectives.
He makes it seem like his bourgeois status is irrelevant whenever he speaks, when he tries to explain things. His eyes glitter like the stars in space.
But aren't we tired of the congestion, of inhaling toxic gases everyday from petroleum-fueled cars?
We are all witnesses on the rising effects of pollution to humanity caused by petroleum-fueled cars. There's tons of health problems and issues that the governments of the world have to deal with for its citizens. Global warming is happening not because of the of nature's processes, or the imbalance in the ecosystem. It exists because of our own actions.
And so, he built Tesla, Inc..
It takes guts to build a company out of nowhere and get over the hump of the financial crisis in 2008.
Wikipedia described Tesla Inc. as an "American automaker, energy storage company, and solar panel manufacturer based in Palo Alto, California. Founded in 2003, the company specializes in electric cars, lithium-ion battery energy storage, and, through their SolarCity subsidiary, residential solar panels."
When I first heard that company name years ago when I was still studying electrical engineering in the university, I remembered right away the inventor and engineer Nikola Tesla, who I look up to because of his genius and passion for science. As someone who wanted to work in one of the hardest and most challenging fields ever, he inspired me. There I was, imagining who I could become someday. I also once told myself that it's so fitting that Elon named his company after Nikola Tesla because of his contributions. It's a form of respect.
All creatives works, all novel ideas come from those pioneers and thinkers who are courageous enough to question everything, to take the status quo head-on. They are those who do not dwell too much on the "now" but on what the future holds. We are where we are today because of the continued search of humanity for advancement and progress. But sometimes, we hinder each other, demotivate those who oppose us, those who are different from us, and tell ourselves that we are right without conducting objective examinations. Sometimes, we unknowingly victimize the creative genius in all of us.
While it is true that owning an electric-powered Tesla car will cost you a fortune, still we should appreciate the attempt to turn this world upside down.
I hope to meet Elon Musk someday. I hope to have coffee with him. I hope to finish reading all of the books that influenced him. And I hope to personally tell him: "Thank you for your efforts on building a better planet despite all the criticisms, despite all odds. Thank you for weathering the storms. Thank you for being brave."


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A very trippy optical illusion. Don't look at it if you have visually-induced epilepsy. Also, it might cause nausea or headaches if you look at it for too long, so be careful. (h/t/: Bad Astronomy)
The blobfish -- yes, this is a real fish, despite its resemblance to my Uncle Mike.
(There are lots of other freaky fish on the site as well.)
The Top 10 things you didn't know about Iran
The sunflower boy's smile


text: « previous next » Print Search Pages: 1 ... 12 13 14 15 16 ... 18 Go Down Author Topic: Rugby League 2019 (Read 86932 times) 0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic. JWesleyHarding Group 1 User 231 Posts: 19890 « 2019-May-06, 09:37 AM Reply #325 » bumpseems there's another thread with same name # Logged JWesleyHarding Group 1 User 231 Posts: 19890 « 2019-May-06, 09:38 AM Reply #326 » Bumpthread with same name # Logged westie Group 1 User 8 Posts: 14921 « 2019-May-09, 09:52 PM Reply #327 » Threads merged. # Logged JWesleyHarding Group 1 User 231 Posts: 19890 « 2019-May-11, 04:37 PM Reply #328 » Why is this round called the "Magic" round? # Logged arthur Group 2 User 446 Posts: 2809 « 2019-May-11, 05:04 PM Reply #329 » If you take you family to all of the games, your money will disapppear . . # Logged JWesleyHarding Group 1 User 231 Posts: 19890 « 2019-May-11, 05:55 PM Reply #330 » Thanks Arthur. # Logged Gintara Group 1 User 16 Posts: 12667 « 2019-May-12, 09:05 PM Reply #331 » Quote from: JWesleyHarding on 2019-May-11, 04:37 PM Why is this round called the "Magic" round?https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Weekend # Logged JWesleyHarding Group 1 User 231 Posts: 19890 « 2019-May-12, 09:43 PM Reply #332 » Thanks Gin. # Logged Jeunes VIP Club Group 2 User 296 Posts: 3954 « 2019-May-12, 11:26 PM Reply #333 » The crowd reported is around 133-137k. There is a spin on highest number of spectators for some of these matches etc.It is a joke because if you had the games at the normal venues, I think you probably down only 20-25% at most. Considering the tickets were being sold from $60-100 for a 8 game package, it is hard to see financially how the NRL were better off significantly.Also who paid the costs of flying and accommodating the players, staff and officials etc? Was it the clubs or NRL?The concept needs a bit of tweaking as it is better playing in other states rather than Brisbane and Sydney. This way the NRL can attract different fans.It will be intriguing to work out how many of the crowd on the weekend were players, staff etc. Also how many spectators attended all 4 days etc. # Logged Antitab# Group 2 User 234 Posts: 2153 « 2019-May-13, 10:13 AM Reply #334 » The Qld state Govt through Tourism Queensland paid several million to the NFL for the event.Huge profit for NRL.WA tourism is doing the same to host Origin, that is why its played ion a Sunday not a Wednesday so visitors may spend a weekend in WA # Logged Jeunes VIP Club Group 2 User 296 Posts: 3954 « 2019-May-17, 10:28 AM Reply #335 » I honestly cannot recall if the injury list has been higher than this year. I cant think of any clubs being unaffected.It will affect the salary cap for the future as we have now fringe players playing more grade games and getting a chance to prove their talent. # Logged wily ole dog Group 1 User 218 Posts: 27229 « 2019-May-17, 12:28 PM Reply #336 » Very true mate. The bunnies have 5 of their backline out of play # Logged JWesleyHarding Group 1 User 231 Posts: 19890 « 2019-May-17, 06:21 PM Reply #337 » I always have a chuckle when it happens.The first time I think was in the 60s when Newtown announced that to improve performance it was dropping Dudley Towers.This week Josh Mansour was the latest.That is: team management blames recent weeks' losses on a winger and drop him to improve the next week's prospects. # Logged gunbower Group 2 User 2463 Posts: 1004 « 2019-May-17, 07:10 PM Reply #338 » Great point JWH -may as well sack the runner ; or in racing parlance, the strapper. # Logged Jeunes VIP Club Group 2 User 296 Posts: 3954 « 2019-May-18, 11:25 AM Reply #339 » Interesting comments from Ivan Cleary. Looks like there are off field issueshttps://www.msn.com/en-au/sport/rugby-league/ivan-cleary-urges-rock-bottom-penrith-panthers-to-come-together/ar-AABvZXu?ocid=spartanntp # Logged Jeunes VIP Club Group 2 User 296 Posts: 3954 « 2019-May-29, 08:37 PM Reply #340 » Another sad story post sports career if allegations are true. As a knights fan, really appreciated his skills and one stage there was comparisons to Andrew Johns.https://www.9news.com.au/national/jarrod-mullen-former-newcastle-knights-player-charged-over-alleged-cocaine-supply/28b7375f-099a-41fc-b423-3e8472e34e16Some highlights including the length of the field effort off a deflected field goal.https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=TpeUMddjrfY # Logged wily ole dog Group 1 User 218 Posts: 27229 « 2019-May-29, 08:45 PM Reply #341 » Certainly a fall from grace # Logged firezuki VIP Club Group 1 User 259 Posts: 18888 « 2019-Jun-07, 01:18 AM Reply #342 » # Logged gunbower Group 2 User 2463 Posts: 1004 « 2019-Jun-07, 07:24 PM Reply #343 » They would quite rightfully be called a racist prat like you. # Logged Jeunes VIP Club Group 2 User 296 Posts: 3954 « 2019-Jun-07, 07:59 PM Reply #344 » Quote from: Jeunes on 2019-Apr-23, 08:55 AM Agree to a certain level but none of the three pairs of halves at the club have been consistent. More to the way they are playing or structure is up for debate.However still early days and next 4 rounds will have a big say in where they are headed.Ever since Brownie started to listen to me about the structures etc, we started winning.I will settle for a top 8 spot. That will be a nice solid season and next year with more development, hopefully a top 4-6 side.The forwards are underrated and doing superbly but long season ahead still. # Logged wily ole dog Group 1 User 218 Posts: 27229 « 2019-Jun-07, 09:02 PM Reply #345 » That was a horrible performance by the 3 teams tonight. Bunnies, knights and officials # Logged Jeunes VIP Club Group 2 User 296 Posts: 3954 « 2019-Jun-07, 09:28 PM Reply #346 » The big 3 are still the teams to beat this year. However if they are not at their best, there are other teams nipping at their heels.Teams like Sharks, Raiders, Knights seem to be a tier below them. Sea Eagles, Dragons, Eels, Broncos and Cowboys can challenge for top 8 if they can get their full strength teams on the paddock. # Logged firezuki VIP Club Group 1 User 259 Posts: 18888 « 2019-Jun-08, 03:16 AM Reply #347 » Quote from: gunbower on 2019-Jun-07, 07:24 PM They would quite rightfully be called a racist prat like you.So you're calling the rugby players who wouldn't sing the National Anthem racist?Might be the first time you got something right. # Logged Jeunes VIP Club Group 2 User 296 Posts: 3954 « 2019-Jun-09, 08:15 AM Reply #348 » NRL is becoming like US sports with players now being transferred mid season to other clubs.Interestingly some of the players are part of a trade deal involving a few clubs rather than a straight swop.Gold Coast has to be one of the unluckiest or absolutely horrible in some of their recruitment recently. Hayne, Cartwright, Peachey etc have not set the world on fire after coming across for big money. The sad part is the Titans do have a good roster too. # Logged Arsenal VIP Club Group 1 User 194 Posts: 16665 « 2019-Jun-14, 10:32 AM Reply #349 » Finally! A contract they want to honour ROBERT CRADDOCKCM today RING the bells. Stop the presses. Wake up the children.The sporting world has unearthed the most amazing discovery a rugby league contract that does not dissolve under pressure.A deal that actually sticks amazing.Shame its bad news for Queensland and a bad result for the game.ARL commission boss Peter Beattie has claimed the reason Queensland cannot host the NRL grand final is because of the contract between the NRL and the NSW Government, which sees Sydney hosting the decider for 25 years.Queensland league fans, how unlucky can you be?It seems the one contract in rugby league that cant be broken on the flimsiest of whims is the one that will stop you from watching a Suncorp Stadium grand final.And its hard to swallow.Barely a week goes by in league without someone breaking a contract or threatening to.This week, its Dane Gagai tipped to leave Souths with two years to go on his deal.Last week, James Roberts landed at Souths, despite being contracted to the Broncos.When it comes to player contracts, rugby league has become a game where yesterdays iron-clad deal is todays wet handshake and tomorrows U-turn.Its not pretty, but its the sporting universe at play. Circumstances change and so do peoples needs. The game moves fast, on and off the field.Players can move as they like, yet stadium deals are apparently anchored in bricks and mortar.Thats a shame because this situation was crying out for common sense to overcome the stifling rigidity of a longterm deal.With ANZ Stadium unavailable due to renovations for the next few years, it just made sense on so many levels to give Suncorp Stadium a crack at hosting the big day.Rugby league has moved past the days when fans would go to the SCG and be happy to watch a rectangular field inside a round ground. The SCG is a great cricket ground, but a dreadful rugby league ground.Suncorp is made for rugby league. And it can hold more fans than the SCG. Had the grand final been moved to Brisbane, there would have been no major protest from Sydney fans.And it would have meant Sydney would still have hosted 24 out of 25 grand finals in the contract period.The NRL claims the law is the law. But sometimes, particularly if you live in Queensland, the law is an ass.Giddy Up # Logged BACK TO ALL TOPICS Print Search Pages: 1 ... 12 13 14 15 16 ... 18 Go Up « previous next »


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Sharp Integration Improves Efficiency for Students & Educators
"Show your work!" Many people may remember that phrase when thinking back to any math course they took. While there are numerous math software programs and online resources on the market today, many schools and universities still require students to complete hard-copy assignments in order to show their work and prove they understand the concept of each equation. And it's not just math courses that require hard-copy materials. Whether it's primary source documents for a history course, handwritten lab notes for a science class, or sketches and illustrations for an art class, there are many instances where hard-copies are still preferred or required.
But in this digital age, what is the best way to organize and keep track of both online and printed resources? How can we help both students and instructors be more efficient when it comes to submitting and grading hard-copy assignments? The Sharp multifunction printer (MFP) integration for Blackboard Learn may be an answer.
Through this new integration developed by Blackboard, students will now be able to scan their handwritten and hard-copy assignments from any connected Sharp MFP on campus directly to their Blackboard Learn courses. This streamlined process enables students to do the following:
- View a list of their available courses, view a list of assignments, and submit an assignment using a document they have scanned through the Sharp MFP.
- View a list of their courses, view a list of their assignments, and print documents such as instructor-provided instructions or previous assignment attempts they have made.
By providing an easy and efficient way to submit assignments, the rate of timely submissions is likely to increase. Instructors will now have an easier time too. Scanned assignments can be graded and submitted on the spot in Blackboard Learn, rather than keeping track of hard copies and manually importing grades or submitting them one at a time.
The Sharp integration for Blackboard Learn in now available for clients on versions Q4 2015, Q2 2016 and Q4 2016. To download the Sharp MFP Assignment Submission Building Block, visit Sharp's listing on the Blackboard Extensions Site. For more information about the Sharp integration for Blackboard Learn, read the press release.


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NEW DELHI (Thomson Reuters Foundation) – Villagers in India will quickly able to join instantly with city lawyers and receive free legal recommendation by way of video conferencing as part of a government initiative aimed toward bettering entry to justice for the nation's poorest and most marginalized.
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Disease Prevention
Disease prevention is just one of the many benefits associated with principled chiropractic care.
When you think about disease prevention, you probably think that the only way to prevent chronic and debilitating diseases is to stick to a healthy diet and exercise regularly. While that is certainly important, at Greater Life Chiropractic, we strongly encourage you to keep in mind that regular chiropractic care can be an effective form of disease prevention, as well.
When you come in for your first appointment at our office in Charlotte, North Carolina, we will develop a corrective care plan for you based on your individual health concerns and past health history. For example, if you struggle with a neuromuscular or musculoskeletal disorder that could lead to serious health problems in the future, we can help you restore maximum physical health to your body through specific chiropractic adjustments. Once this acute problem is taken care of, it is crucial that you still abide by your corrective care plan, so we can catch small issues before they become larger and more concerning.
Even if you are healthy and fit, coming into our office for preventative care can not only help you prevent diseases, but also ensure that you continue to look and feel your absolute best. Additionally, with chiropractic care designed for disease prevention, we can help you establish lifestyle habits that promote total health on an emotional, mental, and physical level.
Remember, disease prevention is just one of the many benefits associated with principled chiropractic care. To schedule a time to come in and see us at Greater Life Chiropractic, give our office a call today.


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WASHINGTON — President Trump said on Monday that he was designating a powerful arm of the Iranian military as a foreign terrorist organization, the first time that the United States has named part of another nation's government as that type of official threat.
The designation imposes wide-ranging economic and travel sanctions on the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps as well as organizations, companies and individuals with ties to it. Iran's Revolutionary Guards carry out operations across the Middle East, train Arab Shiite militias and oversee businesses in Iran.
Monday's designation "will significantly expand the scope and scale of our maximum pressure on the Iranian regime," Mr. Trump said in a statement.
The designation was opposed by some top Trump administration national security officials who said it could incite retaliation by Tehran against American troops and intelligence officers. It takes effect April 15, but was announced Monday in what American officials described as a chaotic and rushed process.
In Baghdad, where some Iraqi officials have close ties to Iran, American officials said they had been given no guidance on how to enforce the policy.
The timing of Mr. Trump's announcement appeared aimed at giving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel a final boost in a tight re-election campaign before a vote on Tuesday. Mr. Netanyahu and Trump administration officials have said Iran is the greatest threat to Israel, and Mr. Netanyahu immediately thanked Mr. Trump in a Twitter post.
Mr. Netanyahu has repeatedly raised the specter of the Iranian threat to Israel and tried to reinforce the notion that his close ties to Mr. Trump strengthen Israeli security.
In thanking Mr. Trump on Twitter, Mr. Netanyahu took credit for the idea of the terrorism designation. "Once again you are keeping the world safe from Iran aggression and terrorism," Mr. Netanyahu wrote in English, while writing in a separate tweet in Hebrew, "Thank you for accepting another important request of mine."
Last month, in an effort to bolster Mr. Netanyahu, Mr. Trump recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights; the United Nations considers it occupied territory.
After Mr. Trump's announcement, Iran's Supreme National Security Council said it was designating as a terrorist organization the United States Central Command, which oversees American military operations in the Middle East.
Iraqi leaders had no immediate reaction, although Karim al-Nuri, a senior figure in the Badr Organization, an influential Iraqi Shiite militia, said there may not be much direct effect.
"But it will put more pressure on Iraq" from Tehran to grow closer to Iran, he said.
Some American officials said the broad designation potentially covers 11 million members of the Iranian group and affiliated organizations, including the large Basij volunteer militia.
In its statement about the new designation, the State Department sharply criticized the Quds Force, an elite unit of the Revolutionary Guards led by Qassim Suleimani. That unit and Mr. Suleimani are already under sanctions from lesser terrorism designations.
Top American intelligence and military officials, including Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, opposed Mr. Trump's action, which they argued would allow Iranian leaders to justify operations against Americans overseas, especially Special Operations units and paramilitary units working under the C.I.A.
But Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and John R. Bolton, the national security adviser, pushed for it, a Trump administration official said. The fighting among the senior administration officials intensified after The New York Times disclosed the pending designation last month.
The final decision belonged to Mr. Pompeo because the State Department controls the list of designated terrorist organizations.
At the height of the Iraq war in the mid-2000s, Iranian military officials and partners helped train Iraqi Shiite militias to fight American troops. The Defense Department says at least 603 American personnel were killed in Iraq by Iran-backed fighters — 17 percent of all Americans killed in hostile action there.
When the Islamic State, a radical Sunni group, took over large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014, the Quds Force helped train Iraqi Shiite militias to retake the territory. The American military also took part in the campaign, meaning the Americans and Iranians were on the same side.
Many Iraqi officials are opposed to the new terrorist designation, as it could impose travel limits and economic sanctions on some lawmakers in the Shiite-led government and other Iraqis who have ties to Iranian officials.
The new pressure from the Americans also could fuel a popular proposal among Iraqi lawmakers to limit the movements and actions of some 5,000 American troops based in Iraq.
In recent days, State Department officials had asked Mr. Pompeo to delay any announcement, arguing that the designation could have unintended consequences for unrelated countries, a government official said. But Mr. Pompeo dismissed their concerns.
Under a provision of the USA Patriot Act, low-level officials are empowered to deny entry to foreigners who are associated with an organization that the officials decide meet broad standards for terrorism — even when the United States government has not formally applied a terrorism label to that group.
Until now, American officials had never interpreted laws as permitting them to deem a government entity a terrorist organization.
The Trump administration's decision to breach that constraint with the Iranian group raises the question of whether other government intelligence services that use violence — including those of Israel, Pakistan and Russia — also now meet that standard. If so, should American officials deny visas to people who work with those agencies? State Department officials say the rushed announcement meant such policy details have not been worked out.
The George W. Bush administration considered a range of tough actions on Iran during the Iraq war, but held back.
"The potential blowback vastly outweighs the benefits," said Jeffrey Prescott, a senior Middle East director under President Barack Obama.
Wendy R. Sherman, a former top State Department official, said the Obama administration considered designating the Revolutionary Guards a foreign terrorist organization, but decided against it because there would be no practical payoff given the risks to Americans and the fact the group was already under other sanctions.
"By designating a foreign military as a foreign terrorist organization, we were putting our troops at risk, particularly our troops in Iraq, next door to Iran," she said.
The Revolutionary Guards oversaw the previous Iranian nuclear program, and some of the top officers were placed under United States and United Nations sanctions.
The Obama administration entered into a nuclear deal with Tehran and world powers in 2015. Mr. Trump withdrew the United States from that agreement last year in the start of a crackdown against Iran.
There are signs that Trump-era sanctions on Iran are undermining its budget for foreign military activities, meaning less money for Hezbollah and other Iranian allies. The new terrorism designation could expand on this by further undermining the Revolutionary Guards' finances.


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It Wasn't Just The Elevation
I was at the entrance gate at Machu Picchu. That's when it hit me.
If you have ever booked a trip to Peru through a travel agency you were likely warned about what can make you sick. Don't drink the water. Don't eat uncooked fruits and vegetables. Don't touch any animals (After seeing this dog in Lima, I knew exactly the reason why.) Yeah, yeah. Not exactly new advice to anyone who has traveled.
People who are not used to living in higher elevations are often the victim of altitude sickness. It happened to someone I was traveling with. The good news is it doesn't tend to last too long. Eventually, your body adjusts and you'll be feeling better in a day or two.
As for me, I felt great. We had been to Lima and the Sacred Valley. Now we were on the train headed to Machu Picchu. I watched as the landscape changed from mountain desert to green vegetation, though it was still a bit drier than I would have expected by the time we reached the station at the bottom of the mountain. Images I had seen of Machu Picchu gave the impression it was a lush, tropical landscape surrounding the ruins. At least that was what I had in mind.
Once the train ride was over, we transferred to a bus that took us up the mountain on a less than smooth road. All of the bouncing around on the seat was actually the kind of experience I expected I would have in South America. I had my Nikon camera on my lap and I was ready to go!
I walked up the steps to the main entrance. Our group from Gate 1 Travel was following our travel guide, Edgar, as he found a good spot on the grass to sit down. Just in time for me.
Although the temperature was cool that day with an overcast sky, I was overheated and feverish. Obviously, this was not exactly the best time to get sick. I knew I was going to have to push myself hard and make the most of the limited time I had there to take it all in. I wasn't going to just sit there and wait to vomit in front of hundreds of tourists.
In the end, I did make the most of my time there. I took some great pictures and learned a bit about the discovery of the ruins by Hiram Bingham in 1911.
Every bump on the bus aggravated me on the way back down the mountain. I had a fever, tiredness, nausea, stomach pain and a loss of appetite. On the bus ride back to the hotel, our driver stopped at a pharmacy to buy me antibiotics.
After all of this, I spent the next several days trudging through the streets and sites of Cusco. I couldn't eat even though I was hungry. Passing on the llama steak and pisco sours in front of me was frustrating. Maybe I had hepatitis A. Maybe it was Typhoid. Either way, the antibiotics were not working.
I barely made it to Puno from Cusco. I was trapped in my hotel room before I took advantage of the travel insurance I had purchased. This experience taught me the value of having it and I highly recommend having it for certain destinations. As everyone went to see the man-made islands of the Uros on Lake Titicaca, I had a doctor come to my hotel room to treat me. I ultimately received a shot of something amazing and felt much better within hours.
I'd like to think it was something derived from coca leaves but it was likely just a healthy dose of penicillin.


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The online world is getting more and more like a virtual mirror of the real world; the real world is the things and stuff around your computer screen… The last decade has seen a duplication of so many concepts and elements from form to digital.
Remember when books were exclusively made of paper printed with ink? Before they were turned to screens with e-ink? And don't get me started with music. It's funny now to think how we all were excited (we = people who were born in the previous century) when Compact Discs came out. Wow, we thought, the digital revolution is upon us; little did we know. Before we even managed to amass a decent music collection of CD's they started disappearing right before our eyes, vaporising into a digital files.
Now don't get me wrong – I love my iPod. When I got my first, I was truly excited. My music collection exploded in few short months to a size I've never imagined possible. And I was walking around with my entire collection in my pocket! I couldn't believe it. I know it sounds goofy to go ga-ga about it now, with the cloud and all, but hey, it was 2002.
Your Great-Grandfather Didn't Scratch Cards
Anyway, with the hope that the real world won't disappear entirely, I have to admit that I do love the online world. It's convenient; it's right here and there, basically everywhere. It saves us time, and in many instances, money. In 1998 I took a really expensive cross Atlantic flight to Las Vegas because I really wanted to play American slot machines. And blackjack. And some roulette, alright. Now I can easily play numerous kinds of slot machines online, for so much less, with much higher chances of winning; if you're asking so yes, I did lose some money in Vegas, not a lot though. I was young and poor, didn't have much to spend. And everything you've heard about the buffets in Vegas is true!
I'm getting sidetracked here. What I actually wanted to talk about is real and online scratch cards. Scratch cards also started their way in the real world, surprisingly late by the way. They look like a really old trick no? Something your great-grandfather father scratched with watermelon seed while harvesting his fields or something like that? Nope. Scratch cards were invented in the US in 1974 and it took twenty whole years until they arrived in the UK. Weird no?
The Connection Between Kate Middleton and Online Scratch Cards
Anyway, even their name indicates what their prime objective is – to scratch. Scratching sounds immediately real, a physical action carried out with a fingernail, coin, key. Online scratch cards preserved the scratching side easily with the help of the mouse, or track pad or whatever comes next; virtual fairy dust? The whole experience was kept pretty much the same in the transformation online.
More than all, scratch cards, online and off, remained a very affordable way to enjoy a little gambling without risking too much money, but with the potential to pocket a really big win. Even huge. Last year, Grace Walker, a housewife from Hamilton UK won £1million with a £5 scratch card. That's pretty cool. In our own site, wins might be somewhat smaller, but they happen much more often than their offline equivalents. Just take a look at the PrimeScratch home page and see and never-ending roll of winners updated in real time.
Where online scratch cards triumph over paper ones is in ease and convenience of use, which can be said about pretty much anything else that lives and thrives online – want to read a magazine, it is online; want to listen the new Mark Ronson's album, it's online; want to buy that blue overcoat Kate Middleton wore last week, well, that one probably already sold out, but it was available online. Yup, as far as convenience goes, the real world is losing big time to the online one.
I Still Leave my Apartment Sometimes
I think that the bottom line is, it's pretty cool to have both worlds. As you can imagine, I spend a great deal of time online. I get to try all our new scratch card games before they hit the website. But even me, once in a while, I enjoy buying a real scratch card, for the fun of it. As I've already mentioned, I listen to most of my music on my iPod (I have a Touch one now) or on my computer, but I still buy CD's, because they make me feel nostalgic.
The only thing I worry about is, seriously it keeps me up at nights, if someone invented online beer. Then I'm afraid, I would never leave my apartment.


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Exciting news! The OmniMount RE12W 12U Wall Mount Rack System has been named a 2015 CE Pro Mark Excellence Award Product of the Year winner by The Consumer Technology Association (CEA).
The CEA's TechHome Division and CE Pro Magazine recognize the best firms working within custom integration and installed technology with these awards across more than 30 categories.
There's no doubt among our internal team that this product is awesome, but being honored by respected industry experts with this coveted award for our new technologies rocks!
Looking to manage components for networking, automation, hi-fi and home theater implementations, but have limited space? Check this product out. It secures and protects all your equipment but in a rugged, compact format, on the wall and out of the way.
By the way, this is the second year in a row that we've been honored in this category. Our OE1201W Ultra Low Profile in-Wall TV Mount was chosen for the same award in 2014.
Check out the March 2016 issue of CE Pro Magazine or online at cepro.com for more award news.


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Texas Board of Ed Continues Battle on Evolution in Biology
A Texas committee has written the first draft of a recommendation that would remove the requirement that state high school biology teachers teach theories that vie with the scientific explanation of evolution, according to Julie Chang of the Austin American-Statesman.
A ten-member panel of school district officials and scholars has been tasked by the State Board of Education to minimize the state's biology standards that are part of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). This whittling comes after teachers have for years complained about the volume of requisite material the state has them teaching in all subjects, which are too copious to fit into a single academic year.
In July, a majority of those on the biology committee voted to eliminate four curriculum standards that they said were at odds with the theory of evolution. Those who question evolution believe those same models, 58 in all, should be included because they encourage students to think critically on certain evidence that evolution cannot explain. Evolution proponents say the four standards promote creationism and intelligent design:
"I don't advocate for any kind of creationism to be taught in the school. That does not belong in the TEKS. I'm simply concerned about the fair representation of the evidence for evolution," said Ray Bohlin, one of two committee members who opposed removing the four standards. Bohlin works for Probe Ministries in Plano and holds a doctorate in cell and molecular biology.
But Ron Wetherington, an anthropology professor at Southern Methodist University, said the standards should be removed because they are irrelevant and redundant. He added that his reasons for wanting to remove the standards in question are because of duplications, grammatical problems, and non-sequiturs.
The recommendations have not been finalized, but when they are the result could be another ideological battle on the SBOE, which is the body that will decide how to streamline the curriculum. The compacted standards will be put in place next school year.
The four standards were adopted in 2009 and were the target of intense media coverage. The measures were supposed to be a melding between the backers of the teaching of evolution and those who were critical of the theory.
Dianna Wray of the Houston Press reports that board member Barbara Cargill lobbied vigorously to get a person appointed to the biology panel, according to Texas Freedom Network emails. Her choice, Charles Garner, a chemistry professor and an anti-evolution supporter, was added to the biology committee.
This appointment occurred when in July, Cargill instructed Texas Education Agency's Monica Martinez to put Garner on the panel. Cargill said his background did not match up with the requirements needed to be a part of the panel and explained that there was room for only a specific number of members based on financial and balance factors. In the end, Garner was selected.
Josh Rosenau, a programs and policy director at the National Center for Science Education, a nonprofit aimed at sharing evidence on controversial issues such as climate change and evolution, says this about the standards:
"The way that they're written includes some things that could be misinterpreted," he said. "In a small community, it's hard to be the parent who stands up and says, âI don't want my kid taught religion in schools.'"
A state Board of Education decision is expected in November, writes John Austin for Community Newspaper Holdings (CNHI).
09 29, 2016 Grace Smith


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30 Photorealistic Pencil Sketches and Portraits.
Pencil Drawings by Hann: Hann was able to draw, even as a child but he didn't take his ability to draw seriously until years later. Whether it was a funny portrait for a friend or a special school project, he always got the call. Being entirely self-taught, he took many years developing and refining his technique and style. His inspiration is found in his own family life and in the picturesque place where he lives. Both play a very important part in his work and are evident in many of his drawings and paintings.
(Image: Credit).
Photorealistic Pencil Drawings by P.L: This creative graphic artist from Hong Kong spends up to 60 hours sketching these photorealistic pencil drawings. He uses a 0.5mm technical pencil to draw everything from his family and friends to cats.
Photorealistic Pencil Sketches of Celebrities:
Created by artist Lukasiewicz:
Created by artist Heidi:
Created by artist A.Maria:
Created by artist Linda Huber:
Created by artist Per Svanström:
Created by artist Frost:
Created by artist Blair:
Created by artist Seo:
Created by artist NoName-Face:
Created by artist Mendoza:
Created by artist James:
Other Posts:
Milk Bottle Art.
Perfect Timing Photos.
Huge Girls On Streets.
Zipper Inspired Designs.
Conveyor Belt Advertisements.
Notebook Cases, Sleeves And Bags.


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BLOG (English)
Muni's Phoenix-Style takes you on a journey of hilarious adventures, a bouquet of sensual pleasures and stunning surprises. Become a Phoenix yourself, who enjoys the new life like a yummy holiday roast, garnished with – breathtaking men.
How do you want to spend your holy leisure time? Pilates? Dates? Or maybe with a PL4u? The perfect lover for you?
Right now the book is available in German only, but the first 14 chapters have been translated already. Be one of the first to read them. Amon all followers on Instagram, random winners will receive them (once I have the official winning conditions up and running). The English version will be available later in the year.


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I've spent a few articles celebrating YouTube channel that were a lot of fun and/or added to society in some small measure. But, I feel like it's time to show some love to other social media giants.
In all honesty, I have difficulty with Twitter. Its brand of 'micro-blogging' isn't conducive to the ramblings of a long-winded so-and-so like me. That said, I still make use of it to keep up to date on happenings and goings-on. But, in my searches, I've found a few feeds that were genuinely good on their own merits. Such as…
Penny Underbust
Let's start by talking about my favorite chubby cyborg (her words, not mine).
As a recently out-and-proud transwoman, I've been eager to look for positive female figures to add to my life – particularly where body positivity is involved. And Penny Underbust is all about making your body what YOU want it to be and being happy with it.
As her online moniker implies, Penny's defining trait is her rather ample bosom. And while breast augmentation isn't quite one to one with HRT and bottom surgery, she very clearly understands the need to feel comfortable in your own skin; a need that she's turned into a modestly successful career as a Youtuber and cosplay model who reviews clothing, plays ukelele, provides makeup tutorials, and generally spreads good vibes to all including transgender and non-binary people – "gender rebels," as she lovingly refers to us as.
If you have an eye for fashion or just need some positivity in your life, I highly recommend following her on Twitter and YouTube and consider supporting her on Patreon.
Speaking of positivity…
Good News Network
Anyone that has followed me on Facebook or Twitter knows that I try to start the weekend off right by proliferating the hashtag #GoodNewsFriday; my campaign to remind the world that there is good to be had in the absurdity of life. And these folks are my primary source.
The Good News Network, GNN for short, is dedicated to tracking down and reporting on people that are trying to make life just a little more pleasant for all of us. They do this through Twitter, on their website, and on their podcast. Think Buzzfeed, but less up its own tailpipe and more reliable.
There really isn't much else to say; it's a reputable news source that encourages people to do good in the world. What more do you want?
So, let's talk high-tech…
For those not in the know, a "Twitter Bot" is a kind of software that is scripted to perform certain actions on Twitter. Most of the time, it's something annoying or outright malicious like tagging everyone that uses a certain word in a tweet to send them links to buy a useless book. But some people have begun to use Twitter Bots to create auto-generated art.
Such is the example set by Pentametron, a Twitter Bot programmed to seek out and retweet other peoples tweets in pairs that just so happen to form naturally occurring, rhyming verses of Iambic Pentameter – the style William Shakespeare was famous for using.
This is essentially a high-tech fusion of the style of Shakespeare combined with one of my favorite literary styles; the "Cut-up technique" popularized by beat poet legend William S. Burroughs in which text is scrambled and rearranged to create new works.
It's a pleasant reminder of how art sometimes occurs by total accident and that we just need to stop and appreciate it some times.


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We suppose it was inevitable. Having exhausted all possible iterations of wearables for humans, manufacturers have turned their attention to animals. Introducing Beagard, an activity tracker for your dog.
It fits like a normal collar, but is equipped with sensors to monitor your mutt's activity. You'll see how active – or not – they've been while you were out and how many calories they've taken on, which is useful if you're wondering who ate that massive pie you left to cool on the side.
You can even set daily goals as well as more long-term ones, or use those proposed by the service. Either way, your pet will be on a strict regimen. Want to check if the data is normal? You can share it with a vet through the accompanying app, and get their verdict.
Like a standard fitness tracker app, you can see graphs relating to performance over time and earn trophies and rewards (though sadly there are no doggie treats).
It's powered by one watch battery, and according to the manufacturers, it will last up to a year before needing replacing. Which is longer even than smartwatches that take the same battery (they typically last six to eight months). It's also waterproof and dustproof, so no need to worry about it while Fido gets mucky in the park.
The firm claims it can upgrade the collar through software updates. It says it will soon be able to prevent potential problems for your dog by analysing the data, and then presumably sending a notification to your smartphone.
The campaign has only raised $808 at time of writing, which is a long way from the $199,000 goal. Still, there are 48 days to go, which is plenty of time. You can bone up on it over at the Indiegogo site.


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The Motley Fool Discussion Boards
|Previous Page
Investing/Strategies / Retirement Investing
|Subject: 401K & RothIRA + stocks?
|Date: 1/3/2005 2:35 PM
|Author: skfrey2001
|Number: 43850 of 98510
I would appreciate any advice concerning this retirement question. Currently, I contribute to my company 401K to get the match, I have fully funded ($3,000) a ROTH IRA for 2004 and would like to know if it is possible to set up another type of retirement account to transfer some of my stocks? I'd like to transfer a value of about $3,000 dollars. I have less than $10,000 in retirement accounts contributed during 2004. From my understanding, I am not eligible to set up another IRA since I have contributed $3,000 dollars to the Roth? Is there another retirement fund where I can transfer the stocks? If it matters, I am 36 and earn less than $95,000 and single.
Thank you.
|Copyright 1996-2020 trademark and the "Fool" logo is a trademark of The Motley Fool, Inc. Contact Us


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Indie Bookstores Embrace the Side Hustle
A rebounding industry is finding success by doing what Amazon can't. So grab a drink, make some friends, and stay awhile.
Your Favorite Delivery Options May All Come From a Shared Stove
In the age of on-demand food, is a restaurant more than a brand?


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Junkyard Tycoon Apk
Package :com.CeanDoo.JunkyardTycoon
Want to start your own vehicle business? If you love vehicles and automobiles, you will love this virtual business game of vehicles. It is unique and extremely entertaining.
Junkyard Tycoon is a game where you start your own garbage garage, buy vehicles or vehicle parts, detach vehicle parts, sell them and make profit. While you slowly make good business out of junk vehicle parts, you become a junkyard tycoon.Just keep buying and selling vehicles or vehicle parts. The twist of the game is that you can make profit while selling different vehicle parts. You can buy Car,Truck,Motorbike,Boats at junkyard prices and you will be able to sell vehicle parts individually to make good money. It is a perfect way to test your business and money making skills.
"Junkyard Tycoon" is the best time management game for unlimited fun and scrapyard business.
The game is all about right set of business skills needed at the right time.! Get ready for the most amazing vehicle business game where you can buy junk cars, trucks, vans, or any other moving parts of vehicles and test your business skills to become a junkyard tycoon. Focus and play carefully! This is an amazing business strategy game.
Decide on your business strategy to balance out your income and expenses. The junkyard economy game is really fun with thrilling sound effects and beautiful game graphics. Download the game and get ready to challenge your own skills.
We are constantly working hard on making the "Junkyard Tycoon" game better and more entertaining for you. We need your constant support to get going. Please feel free to email us for any queries/suggestions/problems or if you just want to say hello. We would love to hear from you. If you have enjoyed any feature of the game, do not forget to rate us on play store and share among your friends.
Apk Update
As Compensation: all player get a Bonus after Update.
30 Casino Coins and 30 Diamonds
ADDED: New Car (Oldtimer)
Lana Cristina
|Nov 14, 2017
|100,000+ downloads
Rating 4.23


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Remember back in February when those hackers stole more than $80 million from Bangladesh Bank?
According to a report from Jim Finkle at Reuters, not only did they get away with a large amount of money, they may have also hacked the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT), an organization which provides a network that enables financial institutions to exchange information about financial transaction details.
Investigators researching the recent Bangladesh Bank heist previously said the still-unidentified hackers had broken into computers and took control of credentials that were used to log into the SWIFT system. But it appears that the SWIFT software on the bank computers was probably compromised in order to erase records of illegal transfers.
So why is this such a big deal?
According to reports, the SWIFT messaging platform is used by 11,000 banks and other institutions around the world, though only some use the Alliance Access software. Exploiting privileged accounts is a critical stage of an attack lifecycle – and that is what appears to have happened when the SWIFT Software was compromised – resulting in an $81 million loss to the bank.
Today's typical, advanced cyber-attacks are normally designed to evade traditional threat prevention technologies that are focused on protecting the perimeter from outside breach. Once inside a network, many of these modern attacks follow a common lifecycle. Attackers usually attempt to advance from the initial breach, escalating their privileges and moving laterally through the system to identify and access valuable targets and confidential information so they can access their target systems and information.
Once an attacker has hijacked the privileged credentials of an authorized user, its activities blend in with legitimate traffic and is therefore much more difficult to detect. Attackers can therefore operate undetected inside an organization for long periods of time.
More than likely, this is how this particular breach happened:
Perimeter compromise. Attackers gain entry into a corporate network through multiple attack vectors including email, web and endpoints. Attackers have become highly sophisticated and are increasingly finding ways to evade traditional network perimeter threat detection technologies. In most cases, immediately after the initial compromise, attackers download malware tools and establish a connection to a command-and-control server to enable ongoing control.
Escalate privileges. External attackers, after the initial compromise, target privileged accounts to facilitate the future stages of the attack. Through a variety of tactics, attackers attempt to gain possession of the credentials used to access privileged accounts. Privilege escalation appears to have been the critical stage of the attack, because if privileged credentials are compromised, the attacker is able to move closer to sensitive data while remaining undetected.
Reconnaissance and lateral movement. Once armed with privileged credentials, attackers may conduct stealth reconnaissance across the network to locate other vulnerable systems, and then spread laterally across the network in search of target data and systems. As the attacker identifies an additional interesting target, it may again need to escalate its privileges to gain access to the newly identified system and then continue its reconnaissance.
Data exfiltration. The final stage of an attack lifecycle is typically to exfiltrate the desired information from the target's corporate network to a location that the attacker controls. Once the target information has been gathered in a staging area and is ready for exfiltration, the attacker can use its privileged access to bypass controls and monitoring technologies designed to prevent or detect exfiltration.
Enter Privileged Account Management
Clearly, there needs to be a solution put in place to protect organizations in the future from a similar incident. A Privileged Account Security Solution will provide organizations with the following capabilities that could be a critical part of solution:
Comprehensive platform for proactive protection of privileged credentials and target assets from cyber-attacks. A solution for privileged account security enables to proactively protect against and automatically detect and respond to in-progress cyber-attacks before they strike vital systems and compromise sensitive data.
Automatic identification and understanding of the scope of privileged account risk. A PAM solution automatically detects privileged accounts across the enterprise and helps customers visualize the resulting compliance gaps and security vulnerabilities. This automated process reduces the time-consuming and error-prone task of manually tracking and updating privileged credentials, thereby decreasing IT operational costs. This enhanced visibility significantly improves the security posture of our customers and facilitates adherence to rigorous audit and compliance standards.
Continuous monitoring, recording and secure storage of privileged account activity. A PAM solution monitors, collects and records individual privileged session activity down to every mouse click and keystroke. It also provides highly secure storage of privileged session recordings and robust search capabilities allowing organizations to meet their audit and compliance requirements. Session recordings also provide a full forensics record of privileged activity to facilitate a more rapid and precise response to malicious activity.
Organizations have invested heavily in security products to protect their IT infrastructure and valuable information. According to IDC, worldwide spending on IT security products is expected to grow from $32.0 billion in 2013 to $42.0 billion by 2017. Historically, the majority of this spending has been focused on perimeter threat protection products such as firewalls, network and web security.
While prevention of the initial breach is an important layer of an enterprise security strategy, at Thycotic, we do not believe that perimeter-based threat protection alone is sufficient to protect against today's increasingly sophisticated and targeted external security threats.
Despite significant investments in perimeter-based threat protection solutions, most enterprises are still being breached. Therefore, we believe that in the future, a greater portion of the overall spend must be dedicated to security solutions focused on the inside of the enterprise.
About the author: Jim Legg is the President and CEO of Thycotic and has more than 25 years of managerial and sales experience in guiding technology companies to accelerated, sustained growth.


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for those of you in the windy city this weekend, chicago restaurant week starts saturday! restaurant week is (besides the greatest idea ever) an ideal time to try out the city's hottest restaurants through pre-set brunches, lunches and dinners at reasonable prices. here's the list of participating restaurants.
also this weekend is randolph street market, discussed last summer here.


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Some people call them warm human dramas, others call them "people" movies. Whatever they're called, they don't rely on stunts or special effects to tell their stories. Ordinary People was the title of one such movie, and maybe the promise of no-frills, ordinary drama is part of the appeal.
Terms of Endearment probably wouldn't have been made without the success of Ordinary People. Human drama may be bankable now, and Terms of Endearment has nothing particularly extraordinary in its subject matter, just the behavior of people in the face of life, love, and death.
The people are a bit unusual—and that's all to the good. Aurora Greenaway (Shirley MacLaine) is a cool, eccentric widow who keeps a tight rein on her daughter Emma (Debra Singer), even after Emma moves away from home to live in Des Moines with her husband, Flap (Jeff Daniels), a college professor.
Aurora and Emma are amusingly at odds through much of their lives—and we get to see a lot of those lives, since the film's two hours and 20 minutes cover 30 years or so. Aurora so disapproves of Flap that she boycotts her daughter's wedding. That's an act characteristic of their testy relationship.
Emma is as trusting and open as Aurora is careful and tidy. Their lives start to look more similar, however, when they both find new loves: Emma, disenchanted with her ne'er-do-well husband, starts spending afternoons with a shy bank manager (John Lithgow).
Aurora really cuts loose. She takes up with the irresponsible, irresistible former astronaut who lives next door (Jack Nicholson, in a wonderful role). Their scenes together are the most liberating in the film, for both Aurora and the audience.
Terms of Endearment is full of such changes of plot and character. That's both a strength and a weakness. It's nice when you can't predict where a film is going, but too many of the plot devices in Terms of Endearment feel like—well, devices.
This is writer-director James L. Brooks's first job as director (he's had extensive work as a television writer—especially with "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "Taxi," and he wrote the Burt Reynolds movie, Starting Over). Brooks has written (from Larry McMurtry's novel) some terrific dialogue here.
One of Brooks's best scenes has the astronaut telling Aurora that he can't continue seeing her. He needs greater freedom, etc., etc. Halfway through his spiel, she looks at him, makes a face, and start muttering, "Blah, blah, blah." She's angered by his shallowness, and he realizes what a rotten egg he's being—and eventually slinks away, ashamed. "Blah, blah" may not sound like good dialogue, but at this moment, it is—and Brooks recognized that.
Unfortunately, Brooks doesn't have the knack for structure that he does for dialogue. The film has a lumpy shape to it, and it's sluggishly paced. There's also a melodramatic curve in the last 40 minutes that seems as though it might have worked better in the novel than in the film, where it feels rather contrived.
The strange coincidences of life sometimes feel contrived, too—and maybe Brooks was trying to make that point. But despite the good intentions, flavorful dialogue, and engaging performances, Terms of Endearment comes off just a little too pat. That's regrettable, because with fewer easy answers, the film might have been much richer, just on its own terms.
First published in the Herald, December 9, 1983
I sort of generally feel, when I see a movie, that I can predict what kind of a reception it is going to get. This is not very difficult to do. Terms of Endearment I did not guess. Before today's hype machine came along to prepare us all for a movie's box-office and Oscar chances well before it opens, I saw this film, enjoyed it, wrote a review, and expected it to pass along like the nice crowd-pleaser it was. I didn't have a clue it would be a smash and sweep the main Oscars in a few months. In fact I don't know when I've been so wrong when it comes to sensing how a movie is going to ride the zeitgeist. Winger and MacLaine are terrific, Nicholson is hilarious, and for almost a year there was no stopping the thing. Brooks had written, along with his great episodic TV work, one of my favorite TV movies, Thursday's Game, a wistful little should-be cult title with Gene Wilder and Bob Newhart.


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Broxy Coaching joined forces with Target MX to bring a massive pre-Junior Nationals experience to a keen group of 15 riders who literally ate their way through two dusty days of focused riding time, along with their share of Chlorinated water off the public diving board. Here's what went right- and terribly wrong!
Officially the camp started on Friday, but you wouldn't have thought so with a packed clubrooms on Thursday night with people arriving at all hours to sleep Marae style. We weren't deprived of the snoring that's for sure, which made the fact that arrivals happening after midnight looked after themselves with their own tent set up!
Coaching Hog
After an extra big breakfast that included bacon and eggs to help rub the sleep out of tired eyes, everyone had arrived and we got straight into my half day of techniques before Jade Thompson of Target MX was to take over the second half with sections and sprints. Well by the time I was satisfied that everyone was on the right track it was already well after lunch so a new plan was hatched.
Jade finished off the day with a short focused moto for each group and we agreed that day two would be his. But we still had an evening to kill before then so off to the public pools we went!
Washing Off
It ended up being the perfect way to wind down after another hot day, with plenty to keep everyone occupied and entertained- especially the spring boards that were just asking for carnage. Kurt Langford probably came out worst off with a very slapped back, even worse than Broxy after his double front flip and a couple of failed fade-away attempts that were far from a running forward backflip! Fortunately the pools lifesaver had some very good pointers that helped him get them dialed before there really was tears.
Another big breakfast helped clean up the left overs from the big feed of the night before, and our riders were divided into four groups with a coach each, Jacob Kneebone and Dan Bell taking groups three and four.
Launch Control
By the time they were finished and some full timed laps were over it was nearly time to go, but not before one last treat- or punishment, whichever it is you see concrete starts practice as being. Broxy showed them the best way to warm up a tire before literally wheelying off the gates. So, after plenty of practice and some well timed pressure we had the group seriously vying for that first corner position.
Check out the pics and pray for the right amount of rain. The club is keen but will need help in the way of water from the skies before they can hold their last two club rounds on the dusty surface. The more practice everyone gets, the better!