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Project Safety is Critical in Construction and Commissioning
With events such as the BP Macondo blowout in the US Gulf of Mexico (2010) and the Pemex Ayatsil-C platform accident (June), the safety risks inherent in oil and gas projects are evident. While there is no foolproof solution to fully eliminate these risks, companies are working to establish the proper protocols to help mitigate them.
In a webinar sponsored by the SPE Gulf Coast Section's Health, Safety, and Environment study group, Steve Frampton, construction and commissioning manager of Marathon Oil's global project organization, outlined a road map using his experience with the company's front-end loading system as a template. He laid out the keys to improving on-site safety, emphasizing the importance of a clearly defined scope of work in every stage of the development process from engineering to design to construction and beyond. He said getting all stakeholders involved and invested in the early stages is important to the success of any project, as is the staffing of competent and experienced personnel.
Frampton highlighted the importance of a realistic schedule for project delivery. In many cases, the commissioning and hookup phases may be rushed because of an aggressive schedule, which can be dangerous. "Consider the back end of the project right at the beginning," he said. "Rushing during commissioning and startup is typically when the unexpected happens and safety is compromised."
Similar to other project management processes, projects must undergo checks at eight "stage gates" or levels of development, when the company can review decision quality: identification, acquisition, exploration, appraisal, selection, definition, execution, and operation.
At each stage, a project team categorizes the opportunities available, confirms deliverables, and assesses the project's progress. An outside group then performs a peer review, after which it can recommend that the company moves the project to the next stage, recycle it through the previous stage, or abandon it altogether.
Frampton said that establishing the safety culture with builders is crucial and is made a priority with every project. "We want to influence the safety culture wherever we are, even on construction yards and we make that very clear from Day 1. We have standards and we want to maintain those on the yard, not just for our own people but for our contracted people as well," he said.
Frampton stressed the importance of certifying that the completed construction work was done to the desired specifications and maintaining records of all aspects of construction through every discipline. These include material records, quality control records, operative records, and mechanical completion checks. "There's a whole slew of paperwork," he said. "Don't underestimate the resources needed to collate and review and maintain these records."
In the installation and hookup phases of a project, companies must evaluate whether the site in question is a green- or brownfield. If it is a brownfield, they should engage the operator early to determine what assets are already present above and below the surface. Regardless of the type of site, Frampton said field safety procedures should be established and observed, and there should be alignment between the installation contractor and the field operator.
The installation process typically involves much work done in a short period of time, so it is important to consider the associated risks. Like every phase, a successful hookup phase involves detailed planning and successful execution. By this point, the operations team will be heavily involved in the project, and Frampton stressed the importance of involving the operations team in the planning of the hookup. Adequate resources must be allocated for a proper project closeout.
Incorporating "lessons learned" into the front end of future projects has become a priority within the industry. Frampton noted how, in the past, the inclusion of lessons learned was "a real afterthought" and not very thorough. But now, companies produce reports from the project closeout sessions that can help with project management processes.
"Learning from the past is essential, and that goes back to the experience and the competent people as well. The demographics of the industry are such that a lot of people within this industry are retiring, and leaving the legacy of lessons learned can only help the next generation of people," he said.
Study Finds Most Workers Prefer WFH as Companies Return to Normal From COVID-19
In a survey of 448 workers across the oil and gas industry, UH Energy asked key questions about returning to work during the global pandemic.
OGUK Survey Aims To Find Supply Chain Solutions
Results of the survey will provide support for the UK's initiatives to help businesses affected by the industry downturn and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aker Solutions Joins Ranks of Service Companies To Reduce Capex and Workforce
Sandvik and SNC-Lavalin made similar announcements in late March and would take further action if necessary.
Don't miss out on the latest technology delivered to your email every two weeks. Sign up for the OGF newsletter. If you are not logged in, you will receive a confirmation email that you will need to click on to confirm you want to receive the newsletter.
20 May 2020
20 May 2020


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Published: 13 June 2018
Roy Clinton is a psychotherapist and Western author who divides his time between Texas and the Canadian Rockies. All of his books are about real places and are historically accurate.
As a fourth generation Texan, he has lived his in Texas his whole life. He loves everything western. Most of all, he loves the western culture. Cowboys may have a rough exterior but most he has known are true gentlemen with hearts of gold and integrity in abundance. Roy writes about these western heroes and the places they live and travel.

subset: commoncrawl


text: One of the cool things about Mobile World Congress is the new tech that is announced or demonstrated. I have been playing around with the hovering stylus on my Note 2, but it only shows options or information when hovering. This new tech will allow complete control over the touch screen of any device, without ever touching the screen. Very cool. Check out the video:


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I've said before that I don't watch much television anymore. Maybe the internet has degraded my attention span past the point I can sit still long enough, I'm not sure.
So I sometimes have to forcibly remind myself that there are shows I ought to keep track of. This, as it turns out, gets considerably easier if the show in question has the name 'Joss Whedon' tacked to it somewhere.
Like a lot of people my age, my adolescence was defined in part by the example of Buffy the Vampire Slayer; like a lot of people generally, I mourn the fate of Firefly, and Dollhouse…okay I completely missed the boat on Dollhouse.
I felt as though Joss was flying below the radar for the last several years. Then I found out that he wrote and directed the great Marvel crossover event the Avengers (thanks so much everyone for telling me it was his so very promptly!!!). I finally got round to watching it, and I found it…awesome. The classic Joss Whedon blend of rapid-fire wordplay comedy, character bonding and contests against the pettiness of evil.
Whedon's talent for making good characters was exemplified there as elsewhere. One of the fan-favourite secondary characters in Avengers was Phil Coulson, an agent of the government-superhero-regulation-bureau S.H.I.E.L.D.
Apparently his demise at the hands of Loki wasn't as final as it appeared, because Joss has spun off a new show set in the same universe focusing not on the superheroes, but on their stage crew, so to speak, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
Inexplicably raised from death, Agent Coulson starts pulling together a team to specialize in finding people exhibiting superpowers of one kind or another and whisking them away before they either wreak havoc or somebody less scrupulous gets to them first.
The pilot sees Coulson pulling together a hotshot secret agent, a traumatized ace pilot, two eccentric British tech geeks and a anarchic hacker to track down a laid-off blue-collar working man who has been the subject of a superpowers experiment which will cost him terribly if they don't get to him in time.
Joss Whedon has made a career out of taking clichéd premises and tying them into balloon animals. With Buffy it was the helpless blonde girl who gets attacked by the monster – and now kicks its arse into next week. With Firefly it was cowboys…IN SPACE. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D is secret agents in the style of Mission: Impossible or the A Team, with a hint of the X-Files…but what its special twist, other than 'superheroes' will be is not entirely clear to me. Not yet anyway.
One thing that does make it unique is our leading man, Agent Coulson, is, unlike leader figures like Malcolm Reynolds, not the straight man. He's the big cheese of this operation, but he's also a massive nerd. So right off the bat he endears himself to me.
Having said that, I'm a little worried. Agents in suits flying around in a giant plane regulating superpowers seems a little…I don't know, bland? It lacks the novelty of Firefly's premise, or Buffy's.
The eccentricities of the team members also seem a little bit by-the-numbers. The two tech geeks gleefully tinkering, the hotshot agent who doesn't want to be there at first, the Asian secret agent who does crazy martial arts and never smiles (and also flies the plane, see above). I feel like we're starting from first principles here. Mind you, I find them rather charming, but where they can be taken remains a vague question.
The themes of the show, however, show great promise. The 'villain' of the piece, the unemployed worker was suckered into being experimented on by playing on his helplessness, his disaffection and his compromised sense of how to 'be a man.' He appoints himself a hero and embraces a black-and-white comic book worldview to cope with this, to give himself a mission. The way playing the hero plays merry hob with his definition of right and wrong and he goes on a power trip is inspired. It can be read as an examination of the concept of revenge fantasy, the disaffection of today's 99% and masculinity. Coulson's earnest and emphatic desire to save his subject and the psychology of both sides gives the show a real heart strongly reminiscent of Flashpoint.
Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, then, has a good heart and a lot of potential. Joss Whedon's offbeat sense of humour and silly wordplay (I especially treasure the line 'God, are you dismissed') remain strong as ever. He's brought back Clark Gregg as Coulson and a few actors he's worked with before, not least J. August Richards as our would-be superhero, formerly James Gunn of Angel, and best of all Ron Glass, formerly Shepherd Book of Firefly.
Probably the only thing that Whedon has taken some legitimate heat for is he has a bit of a blind spot for racial diversity in his casting; he's had two African American actors, one in Angel and one in Firefly (the two listed above), but despite the use of spoken Mandarin and Chinese symbolism in Firefly there wasn't a single Asian actor to be seen above extras and few of any other persuasion. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D is a marginal improvement there, albeit we have one secondary African American, one in a single appearance and one regular Asian actress who is worryingly stereotypical to start with. Hopefully we can expand on this a little bit as the series progresses.
All in all, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D is charming, classic Whedon, and the continuation of a movie-verse that has been quite the smash. Possibilities abound for superhero appearances and examination of our concept of heroism which started with the pilot. Arcs on the exact nature of Coulson's recovery, the backstories of our characters and the motives behind the superhero experiments that kicked this off await.
The Tide is Rising.


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Bay Area, Baltimore Stations Converge on NOLA
A handful of happy station reporters are in New Orleans, following the Ravens or the Niners for their hometown viewers in advance of the Bowl.
The most viewed story on WBAL Baltimore's site today, not surprisingly, is a slideshow of Super Bowl pix from New Orleans.
Sinclair's WBFF Baltimore site has a section, "Ray's Last Ride to New Orleans," dedicated to Ravens 'backer Ray Lewis.
The WBFF talent also puts together a little song and dance that puts the '86 Bears' Super Bowl Shuffle to shame.
WJZ reports that Ray Lewis is "agitated" over allegations that he used illegal substances, while WMAR's site checks out a Ravens cheerleader deemed "too fat" to lead cheers in New Orleans.
Out west, the joint CBS San Francisco TV and radio site proclaims itself Your Source For Everything Niners, along with a Guide to Kaepernicking, which is actually not that radically different from Tebowing. CBS is a winner regardless of who takes the trophy Sunday, owning stations in both Baltimore and San Francisco.
KNTV's NBCBayArea.com leads with the proclamation that Beyonce will, indeed, sing live (unlike those WBFF morning anchors), while the KGO site has an AP story featuring Chris Culliver of the Niners apologizing for anti-gay comments he made earlier in the week.
I'm not seeing any football on the KRON homepage right now, while KTVU checks in with Randy Moss. Remember him?
The television industry's top news stories, analysis and blogs of the day.


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Page content
Erik Tengen
Erik Tengen, co-founder of Oaky, has a vast experience in the hospitality technology landscape, with a passion for consumer behaviour and innovation being at the core. Most people don't know that before Hotelschool, and Oaky, Erik spent five years as a professional poker player. Other than hotel tech, you can find Erik on the golf course, skiing, listening to techno or being on stage where he loves to be the most.
About Oaky
Oaky is the automated and personalised up-selling platform for hotels, hostels and serviced apartments to maximise profits and enhance the guest experience. Oaky´s data-driven up-selling technology has the highest upsell conversion in the industry. Thanks to the commission-free business model, Oaky´s customers have an unlimited ROI potential, and the freedom to innovate the guest experience by offering guest services with low margins alongside room upgrades with high margins. Oaky is a trusted partner by more than 1,000 hotels across 60 countries.
Contact data
Hall 7.1b, eTravel Lab


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Mitcham Industries Inc. (MIND) is Trading Higher on Unusual Volume for September 08Equities Staff Follow |
Mitcham Industries Inc. (MIND) experienced unusually high volume on Sep. 08, as the stock gained 3.41% to a closing price of $3.03. The stock saw 96,782 shares trade hands over the course of the day on 278 trades. Given that the stock's average daily volume over the last month has been 11,838 shares a day, this represents a pretty substantial spike over the norm.
Mitcham Industries Inc. has a P/B ratio of 0.36. The stock has traded between $5.00 and $2.24 over the last 52-weeks, its 50-day SMA is now $3.23, and its 200-day SMA $3.32.
Mitcham Industries Inc leases and sells geophysical and other equipment used primarily by seismic data acquisition contractors to perform seismic data acquisition surveys on land, in transition zones and deep water marine areas.
Headquartered in Huntsville, TX, Mitcham Industries Inc. has 210 employees and is currently under the leadership of CEO Guy Malden / Robert P. Capps.
For a complete fundamental analysis analysis of Mitcham Industries Inc., check out Equities.com's Stock Valuation Analysis report for MIND. To see the latest independent stock recommendations from Equities.com's analysts, visit our Research section.
The Russell 3000 is not well known outside the world of finance, but it's one of the strongest indices out there for getting a broad sense of the stock market. Unlike the better-known Dow Jones Industrial Average or S&P 500, membership on the Russell 3000 isn't selected by committee. It's simply the 3,000 most valuable companies in the country.
With 3,000 stocks making up the index, it gives a broad look at the markets, including the small-and mid-cap companies that aren't on the Dow or the S&P 500. And with a rules-based system for determining membership, there's no bias that could potentially limit membership. That's why many financial professionals will turn to the Russell 3000 long before the better-known indices when trying to take the temperature of the market.
For more news on the financial markets, go to Equities.com. Also, learn more about our independent proprietary equity research reports and our robust do-it-yourself Stock Valuation Analysis reports in our Research section.
All data provided by QuoteMedia and was accurate as of 4:30PM ET.
DISCLOSURE: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors, and do not represent the views of equities.com. Readers should not consider statements made by the author as formal recommendations and should consult their financial advisor before making any investment decisions. To read our full disclosure, please go to: http://www.equities.com/disclaimer


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Chorus *(Phats Bossalini & Val Young)* 2x
That's the Ballers Feud
A thug changes, and love changes
That's the Ballers Feud
And best friends become strangers.
Verse 1*(Yukmouth)*
Survey says...
You know some fake mutha fuckas
I know some bustas too
this fake mutha fucka been causin rukus in my crew
since '92
at first I thought he was cool like Dru
always hollerin the Dangerous Crew, but if you only knew
them niggas don't wanna hang wit you
cuz of the thangs you do
learn a thang or two
talkin bad bout yo homies, two bitches who juss be framin you
niggas thinkin bout hangin you, the game is true
everywhere we go the punk hoo bangin you
makes it kinda hard for me to swang wit you
that's why niggas only hang wit Dru, my pimpydoo
folk-el, smoke out my Range Rove-el
What? What?
fuck these broke-els
I hate it when niggas be playin wit yo mail, because they only end up
smoked out
broke as hell
drivin buckets
I'm drivin luxury cars and plus shit
Benz the Lexus the roughest to fuck wit
so you wanna be P-I-M-P?
You need to get a bitch to fuck you fo free
you payin G's fo pussy.
*(Chorus)* 2x
Verse 2 *(Numskull)*
There's too many playas
too many ballas
too many hustlas
too many killas
too many pimped out mutha fuckas
so now we got the east coast and the west coast feudin to see who's
the cleanest mutha fucka is the richest and the genius
what if you stumbles, like buyin too many houses
wit rims to put on yo shit, too many furry couches
who the mouses nigga, I think you knowin
sheadin tears from bitches who take yo shit and keep goin
an don't come back, cuz they done sucked you dick and yo cabbage
got 20 hoes across America livin lavish
hatin is juss a hoe thang, yo, I gotta live like that
a bitch can roll wit me, or hit the track
you can talk about pimpin, you can talk about killin
but when that shit goes down, sound minds will be revealin
when you die and comeback, maybe you can try again and beat me
but don't try now, cuz you niggas can't see me
22, ready to hoo ride at moments notice
first to swang, hittin noses, eyes can't focus
hocus pocus
now 25 niggas on ya
juss because you moved from California
Ballers Feud.
*(Chorus)* 2x
Verse 3 *(Kastro)*
We went from loved ones, on the way up
to no love at all
time to go though, so I don't give no fucks at all
cross the game
don't be playin, stoned get right
I shed blood wit this, and that can't be gone, overnight
this hate
man, could be a cold mutha fucka
close friends, close as cat scan, love 'em like my brother
now I
see 'em dyin like a mutha fucka
slow death, no breath
man I love it like my mother
and that's some cold shit, I'm on some mo' swole shit
listen quick
fingers thick
lady clit
piss this shit, on yo clit
niggas know I'm flossin K-Cash
cash foldin
you want what I'm holdin, my wife an my life stolen
worse enemy, authority
police are all enemy
richeously, this life fo' me ain't as bad as it seems to be
but still in all I love, all I love
take my ten fingers, my ten toes, an mash outta love
do it fo ya'll, all ya'll
my baby girl an God
this crazy world like a knife in the heart of my cause
now half part of me hard
the other part of me scarred
death wit out health, but still a nigga prayin to God.
*(Chorus)* 4x


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Humans breathe by inhaling and exhaling. For sharks, it is a little more complicated.
Read More
One of the most recognizable animals in Blacktip Reef, the Queensland grouper, has grown exponentially since arriving in our care.
Read More
Calypso joined our National Aquarium family in 2002. Look back on her past 15 years to celebrate the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Sea Turtle Week!
Read More
Nine yellowstriped cardinalfish have been added to Blacktip Reef!
Read More
Subscribe to one or more National Aquarium newsletters to receive updates about animals, activities and more!
© 2019 National Aquarium | 501 East Pratt Street | Baltimore, MD 21202


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Want to become a social entrepreneur? Join the Master's program at Deshpande Centre for Social Entrepreneurship
- +0
- +0
About DCSE:
With an aim to demystify social entrepreneurship for young and creative minds, this residential program is carefully designed from a practitioner's perspective. MSE is hosted by the DCSE that has been a breeding ground of several start-ups, an international network of enterprises and concrete partnerships with over 100 for profits and not –for profits who all are engaged in solving social issues with a compassionate heart and entrepreneurial mindset.
About the Course:
The two year program has 25 different courses that blend practical experience with personal mentor-ship with real entrepreneurs. Deshpande Centers have been launched in renowned universities throughout the US and Cananda, with the sole objective to make "learning relevant and responsive to real time challenges" and to embark on an even more ambitious aim to help students not just 'learn' about entrepreneurship but find the inspirations and tools of becoming an entrepreneurs themselves.
Learn more about their international work at http://www.deshpandefoundation.org/ and India work at www.deshpandefoundationindia.org
Infrastructure and other facilities:
MSE will be hosted at Deshpande Centre for Social Entrepreneurship campus that has fully equipped classrooms, featuring audio and video facilities and WiFi. The center has additional facilities such as an incubation space, auditorium, digital lab, seminar hall and a robust library containing books, magazines, journals and contemporary digital content. Being located at DCSE, the MSE program brings the possibility of getting incubated in their Entrepreneur in Residence program, where students can develop transform their entrepreneurial dream into a reality.
Fifty per cent of the students have started student ventures, some students got paid internships, which included opportunities outside of India.
Who should join MSE?
Graduates in any field who are looking to step into creating or managing a social enterprise themselves and individuals who are passionate about social issues and display entrepreneurial acumen.
How to apply?
Last date to receive applications is 15th Feb 2014. Applications can be downloaded through their website (www.detmse.com)
For more information call +91 9686113996 or email email@example.com
Want to make your startup journey smooth? YS Education brings a comprehensive Funding and Startup Course. Learn from India's top investors and entrepreneurs. Click here to know more.
- +0
- +0


text:
Download Solution Sheet
Omada Identity Suite
Highly Configurable Solution
Omada Identity Suite provides a comprehensive integrated identity management and access governance solution. The solution empowers organizations to manage identities across heterogeneous IT-systems and offers a highly configurable data model that enables organizations to make changes and scale the IT platform according to business requirements.
Built-In Standard Processes
Omada Identity Suite is based on Omada's process reference model which is built on concepts from COBIT and other process frameworks. Built in processes are available for identity lifecycle management, access management, and business alignment. All functional areas are bookended with full governance and administration processes for a complete IGA solution.
Please complete the registration form to download the Omada Identity Suite Solution Sheet :


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This year my family and I celebrated Day of the Dead on October 30. Traditionally it's celebrated on November 1 and 2. We all went to Hollywood Forever Cemetery where they have a huge celebration every year. There's music, craft vendors, food, art, and beautiful offerings to remember the dead. I did all the makeup for 7 people.
My man, Alex
Sister-in-law, Julie
Sister-in-law, Susie
Nephew, Julian
Nephew, Quinlan
Niece, Flower
and a picture of my working


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Limit and offset in Oracle
If you are considering about using some kind of pagination like will_paginate or some pagination of your own flavor, and you are stuck using Oracle i have a solution for you. Oracle is known not to have limit and offset helpers for the select statements. Those two pieces of code that are missing are helping us to paginate properly. Yeas, you can use rownum, and i am using it too, but we have to encapsulate our select a few times, so it won't make trouble for us(bad data, not ordering properly or something).
I have already made a patch for arel, so it's embedded in Rails, if you really have use Oracle as your database.
Let's say that we want to list all the employees from scott.emp table, and order them by empno descending and fetch the records from rows of that data 41 to 50.
Yes, i know it looks stupid, but it works, and until Oracle implements limit and offset into it, sadly, this is the only way.


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International Trust Fund (ITF)
Bureau of Political-Military Affairs
($ in thousands)
NADR-ITF funds are administered by the Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement. Read more about the International Trust Fund.
The program supporting the International Trust Fund (ITF) for Demining and Mine Victims' Assistance is a special component of the U.S. humanitarian demining program, which supports our nation's strategic objective to "Advance sustainable development and global interests" by providing a "humanitarian response" to the harmful social and economic effects generated by landmines, unexploded ordnance (UXO) and abandoned ordnance (AO). In addition, U.S. contributions to the ITF foster regional stability through mine action projects funded by more than 20 countries, the European Union and more than 30 international non-governmental organizations, commercial firms, philanthropic foundations and other donors.
The ITF was established by the Republic of Slovenia, yet operates as an independent international organization. It commenced financial operations in September 1998, initially focusing on Bosnia and Herzegovina. The ITF has been a success both operationally and financially and has become the demining instrument of choice for the international community in the Balkans. Currently, the ITF provides financial support for over two-thirds of all demining operations being conducted in the region. Among ITF's successes are:
In May 1998, Congress appropriated $28 million for the ITF to assist mine-affected countries in the Balkan region. Since then, the United States has contributed more than $82 million in matching and unilateral contributions to support mine action in the Balkans and the Caucasus. These funds have been provided to the ITF to match other donor contributions, thus effectively doubling funding available for humanitarian mine action projects executed by the international donor community through the ITF. Without the United States matching funds as a draw for other international donors humanitarian mine action in the Balkans would be drastically reduced with significant negative consequences for mine and unexploded ordnance casualty rates, economic development and regional security.
The FY 2007 request for $10 million will continue matching dollar-for-dollar the contributions of other international donors. In 2005, the ITF operated in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia and Montenegro, coordinating a broad range of mine action activities. The bulk of the FY 2007 contribution will fund humanitarian mine action in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia, which despite the assistance provided through the ITF remain the most heavily mine impacted of the Balkan states, as well as continuing assistance to Albania and Serbia and Montenegro. Some sustainment assistance such as equipment and training will also be provided to indigenous demining capabilities in Macedonia and Kosovo established with past U.S. assistance. [Source: FY 2007 Congressional Budget Justification.]


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Bees for Development respects your right to privacy so the only web cookies this website deploys are those which are strictly necessary for its correct operation and which enhance the experience of our site visitors – no personally identifiable information is collected. If you continue to browse our website we will assume that you are happy with our policy and to receive cookies from our website. If you choose to follow a link to third-party website please be aware that other organisations may have different cookie deployment policies from our own. You can change your cookie preferences in your web browser at any time.
The specialist international beekeeping organisation
Bees for Development Ethiopia was established as a locally-registered charity in 2012. Bees for Development Ethiopia is headed by our long term colleague and partner Mr Tilahun Gebey. In 2015 we started a three-year Project to help 1,200 of the most vulnerable families in Bahir Dar Zuria and Dera, to get started with beekeeping to increase their family income. The Project has four outputs:
This important work in Ethiopia was made possible with kind funding from our supporters. Bees for Development Ethiopia could not have begun work without this crucial support at start-up.


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My father was a Scot who may take a whack at me from the hereafter for this item. But I believe it might also make him wonder what's happening to his beloved Scots. Today we hear more and more about the medical problems of obesity. But a report from Edinburgh illustrates that obesity has many other rarely mentioned ramifications.
Doctors told the Scotland on Sunday newspaper that obesity was straining hospital budgets. Beds, mattresses and chairs were all too small. Radiologists reported that some Scots have become so overweight it's impossible to squeeze them into CT and MRI machines. Surgeons found that operating tables were too narrow and surgical instruments too short when trying to operate through layers of abdominal fat. And even hoists that had been used to lift overweight patients were now not strong enough to support the heavier ones!
The result? Surgery had to be postponed until patients lost weight. But the report made no mention of what happened when diagnosis depended on the use of CT and MRI equipment.
This sad commentary indicates what's happening in many other countries as well.
Here's an interesting item from Dr. Charles R. Bateman of Waterloo, Ont. I had written about demolition drivers who often sustained whiplash injuries but quickly recovered without the aid of litigation. Obviously the reverse is true in the general public, which resorts quickly to the law for therapy.
Dr. Bateman reminded me of a study done by Dr. Barney Barrett, a neurologist at Toronto's Sunnybrook hospital in 1964. He found that cliff divers in Acapulco, diving from great heights, frequently suffered fractures of the neck. But they also quickly recovered and returned to diving again without litigation and insurance claims!
I like simple medical tests that don't cost an arm and a leg, so this one caught my eye. It's called "The jug test" and is the brain-child of Dr. Bernard Roos, a specialist in aging at the University of Miami.
The simple test determines how speedily patients can move five 3.7 litre jugs (i.e. five 1 gallon jugs) of water from a knee-high shelf to another shelf at shoulder height without changing hands.
Dr. Roos claims it's a quick, efficient way for health-care providers to determine if people are able to deal with the physical tasks of daily living.
Sacred cows are not always that sacred. We all know high blood cholesterol is bad for you. But is it? A report in the Archives of Internal Medicine claims high levels of cholesterol are associated with decreased overall mortality in the elderly. It seems that high cholesterol may help to protect against infection.
Again, every menopausal woman now knows that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is associated with increased risk of breast cancer, heart attack and stroke. But suppose a heart bypass operation is needed? A report in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery says HRT significantly improves the survival rate regardless of age. For women on HRT, the death rate was only 2.7%. For those not on HRT, 6.7%!
There's one sacred cow that will always be sacred. Plumbers who have fixed hundreds of leaking pipes are more likely to be successful in fixing a leak than those who have just repaired a few. It's the same with surgeons.
A report from The Harvard Medical School studied 7,257 patients with colorectal cancer who underwent surgery. Patients treated at hospitals performing the fewest of these surgeries were more likely to require a colostomy or die within two years. The rate of permanent colostomy was also 7.1% higher in patients treated at hospitals performing fewer than seven of these operation per year. It's the old story that practice makes perfect.
The authors of the study believe this is important because patients who end up with colostomies have higher rates of depression and poor social functioning.


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Do you find your sex drive to be low these days? If you are, you're not alone. According to researchers, one third of women and 15% of men experience a problem with low libido. All though in some cases this may be due to medical reasons, for most of us it's a matter of making a few lifestyle changes.
If you're looking to enhance your sexual desire and spice up your sex life, read on to learn about these five tips. Follow them and you may be ready to jump back in the sack.
Get More Sleep
If you are tired and aren't getting enough sleep, don't be surprised that you've lost that loving feeling. You can't be exhausted and expect to be running on all cylinders! Lack of sleep messes with your hormones and it is especially detrimental to your testosterone production, a crucial hormone for libido.
Make sure that you're getting at least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night. It's important to have a steady circadian rhythm, so go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day. Also, make sure to cut off technology at least an hour before bed time in order to make sure you are getting high-quality sleep.
Eat Better
Want to turn up the heat between the sheets? Change your diet! Follow a heart-healthy diet in order to feel good and prevent cholesterol buildup. In fact, studies have shown that there is a link between high cholesterol in women and difficulties in getting aroused and having orgasms.
Additionally, cholesterol and being overweight reduces blood flow to the pelvic area and genitals, which can negatively affect your sex life.
In addition to eating a heart-healthy and well-balanced diet, there are foods, vitamins and certain components that can enhance sexual function and libido. Strawberries, avocados, almonds, and oysters to name just a few of the foods that have been shown to increase desire and make for better sex.
Find the Right Supplements
There are various herbal supplements that can increase your sexual function. Depending on your needs, you can add some of these supplements to your diet in order to improve your overall health and sexual function.
Ginko and biloba can improve blood flow to the sexual organs and the brain. Epimedium Brevicornum is a supplement that has been demonstrated to have aphrodisiac potential and to boost testosterone. Ginseng can boost energy and the secretion of hormones. Another great libido-boosting supplement to try is Maca, because it helps bring your entire system to equilibrium, increases energy and libido.
Exercise More
Exercise has many benefits for your health including improving your mood, lessening stress, improving self-esteem, and improving the overall physical condition of your body. All of these effects can help to improve your sex drive. But doing as little as 30 minutes of exercise three times a week a dulled libido can be improved.
Regularly exercising will help to improve blood flow to your sexual organs. Additionally, working out will help you lose weight, which is important because being overweight can really be detrimental to your sex drive.
Get Creative in bed
Most couples' sex time can become stale. They get comfortable with the same positions (like missionary, woman on top, doggy style, etc.), having sex in the same place or even always at the same time. But changing things up in the bedroom can go a long way to boost your libido and bring back fireworks in your bedroom.
A great way to change things up in the bedroom is to introduce sex toys. Sex toys can break up the monotony and spice up your sexual relationship. Start by searching out sex toys with your partner through an adult novelty website. It can be a sexy date that you and your partner can have from the comfort of your own home.
Introducing the idea to your partner and having them agree may not occur immediately. It can be tricky getting them to try something new, but if you put it out there and take the time to learn about sexy toys together, it will make it easier for the other person to appreciate and embrace the changes.
On the other hand, if your partner is an adventurous person, surprising him or her with toys while already in the sack can be a great way to change things up for the better.
It's a lot of work to have successful. Once you have figured out all the big stuff, the little stuff may need some extra work. But keeping the romance alive should be a huge priority if you want to keep your intimacy and relationship healthy. By following the five tips listed above, you can increase your libido and not lose out on the intimacy and closeness that all couples crave.


text:
|Passion flower at the National Garden.
Incarnate Love,
we lift our hearts to You in thanksgiving:
hear our prayer.
May God bless us at our rising,
that we may dedicate this day
to the praise and glory of God's kingdom.
May God bless us in our meditations,
that we may seek wisdom, compassion,
and unity with God and each other.
May God bless us in our travels,
that our steps may take us toward reason, justice, and peace
through the power of the Spirit.
May God bless us in our struggles,
that we may be strengthened and renewed
to persevere in the face of trial.
May God bless us in our relationships,
that we may love and care for each other
and embody lovingkindness to all.
May God bless us at day's end
with the peace of Christ,
which surpasses all understanding.
Holy One, let your light of compassion and comfort
envelop these, your beloveds, for whom we pray.


text:
Defamation of Character
Category: Family and Home
Asked by: sjh-ga
List Price: $100.00
10 Sep 2003 15:20 PDT
Expires: 10 Oct 2003 15:20 PDT
Question ID: 254368
My father died two weeks ago and I was accused of murdering him. He was 82 and had a form of dementia, and he was living in my home in North Carolina. I have been his caregiver for almost three years. Due to family conflicts, last year he was deemed a ward of the court, with a social agency as the guardian of his being and a bank as the guardian of his estate. He fell out of bed and twisted his spinal cord. He was in the hospital for two days. After learning of his death, my sister in Louisiana had her friend, a lawyer in West Virginia, send a letter to the cemetery in Illinois to stop the burial because she believed there was foul play and wanted an autopsy performed. When I attended the funeral service on Saturday, I was not told that my Dad was not being buried until after the service. Everyone there knew, and acted strange toward me. When I learned what was happening I was devastated. The fax the lawyer from WV sent to the funeral director in IL stated Re: Possible murder of On Monday, I learned from the funeral director in Illinois that the sheriff in my county in North Carolina had conducted a criminal investigation, and that there was nothing to prevent his burial; however, Illinois law requires all beneficiaries (there are four sisters) to be in agreement and because one sister was still insisting that an autopsy be performed he was not buried at the time of the funeral service (which was Saturday). A burial has now been planned for Tuesday, as the sister who wanted the autopsy performed has changed her mind. I have called the lieutenant who conducted the investigation, and I am waiting to hear back from him. I have been trying to speak to a lawyer in North Carolina but have not been able to connect with anyone, yet. One of my career plans was to go into caregiving. I had also taken care of my grandmother and have other caregiving experience. I am now concerned that the investigation may have caused a black mark on my future plans. There are many more details, but I want to keep this concise. If you need more information, please let me know. I would appreciate an answer as soon as possible. Thank you. Here are my questions: Should I now insist that an autopsy be done? This would clear my name proving that there was no foul play. What action can I take against the lawyer in West Virginia? What evidence is required for a lawyer to initiate possible murder charges? Can I sue my sister for defamation of character? If so, what type of attorney specializes in this field?
Re: Defamation of Character
Answered By: omniscientbeing-ga on 10 Sep 2003 23:34 PDT
sjh-ga, First of all, you have my condolences on the loss of your father. Now, allow me to provide my consensus of the situation as you have described it, after which I'll answer all of your specific questions directly. Although last year the court took over your father's being and estate (presumably because his dementia had progressed to a point where he was deemed unable to take care of those matters himself), you remained his primary caregiver and he lived in your home. This means that as of one year ago the court found you to be a suitable caregiver (unless they didn't know he was living with you for some reason--let me know if this is the case). Then, two weeks ago, your 82 year old father-- a ward of the court in North Carolina and suffering from dementia-- fell out of his bed, seriously injuring himself. He was taken to a hospital (the question of who found him first and called 911 does come to mind, but I'm assuming it's you) where doctors determined he had twisted his spinal cord. He died two days later in the hospital, under the care of physicians and nurses. Although your sister (in a different state) had a lawyer (in yet another state) write a letter of inquiry to the cemetery (in still another state) regarding your father's death in an attempt have an autopsy done, you were never formally accused of or charged with any crime, nor was an autopsy ever conducted. The net result of your sister's actions was to have the burial/funeral delayed until Tuesday. You are now concerned about your reputation in general and as a professional caregiver due to the fact that your sister's lawyer sent a fax with the subject "Possible murder of.." and was generally quite vocal about possible suspicious circumstances surrounding your father's death while in your care at the time of his accident. You felt uncomfortable at the funeral (when it finally happened after the untimely delay) with people looking at you after your sister's informal allegations. Please correct me if I have made any incorrect assumptions in my assessment, as it significantly affects my Answer. Barring any omitted information or seriously incorrect assumptions I have made due to my distance from the situation, I do not think you have anything to worry about from a legal or professional standpoint. Your father was very old and mentally ill. You cared for him a full three years before the accident occurred, and let him live in your own home. Falls of one type or another kill many seniors every year, not to mention the fact that no charges were ever filed--not just against you, but no charges of any kind have been filed whatsoever (correct?). There is nothing here--no case. And therefore, nothing for you to worry about. The death of a parent is an extremely traumatic and stressful life-event for all people, and many do not react well, especially in the "denial" phase. Putting off the burial may well be your sister's way of prolonging her denial that your father is no longer with her, and so she acted out in whatever way she could think of in order to delay his burial, if even for a short time. Then, from a purely speculative, mystery-reader type of standpoint, what would be your motive? Did you stand to gain financially from his death? Even if you did, at the age of 82 you wouldn't have long to wait anyway. Are you suffering from financial difficulties so extreme that you would benefit immensely by receiving your share of his estate a few years early? Now let us consider your questions. 1) "Should I now insist that an autopsy be done? This would clear my name proving that there was no foul play. " I do not suggest you request an autopsy. Any further attention to the matter will only fuel your sister's efforts to drag things out and focus the spotlight on you. "Let sleeping dogs lie" so to speak, and allow your father to Rest In Peace. There is no reason to "clear your name," since first of all you haven't done anything wrong, and second, you haven't been charged with or formally accused of anything. I would maintain an air of "My poor sister, she's very distraught over his death," type of thing, and stay very calm, cool, collected and forgiving (of her) during your grieving process. The fact that your sister has changed her mind about the autopsy and that the burial is planned for Tuesday shows that she realizes you haven't really done anything wrong. 2)"What action can I take against the lawyer in West Virginia? What evidence is required for a lawyer to initiate possible murder charges?" I do not see that you have any "actions" to take against your sister's lawyer friend. Further, I don't even see that he "initiated murder charges" against you, which would be done by lawyers from your city's District Attorney's office, anyway. A sheriff briefly investigated, but found nothing and you were never charged (nor was anyone else, because the death was determined to be accidental). Any time a person dies, it is normal for police and other relevant parties, such as the coroner, to ask a few questions. I think your best course of action is to let it "blow over" so to speak, and ignore it, barring any further legal developments involving yourself. To file formal charges, the D.A. would usually require a motive (what would be your motive, as I mentioned above), a murder weapon (pushing someone off a bed involves no physical weapon and would be an awfully difficult thing to prove), and at least one witness. It doesn't seem like any of those are present here, but charges were not filed against you anyway. 3) Can I sue my sister for defamation of character? Keep in mind that you were not defamed in a public forum, such as in a magazine, newspaper or on television (as most libel or slander cases involve). What your sister says verbally in conversation among family members and close friends will be very difficult to prove unless you have recordings of it, and a facsimile from your sister's lawyer friend to the cemetery hired to conduct your father's burial is fairly private as well. However, your question was *can* you sue her, and given our litigious society, I'd have to say that you might be able to. I don't think you *should*, however, simply because, as I said previously, it would just drag the whole matter out and give your sister even more reason to continue to dredge up dirt against you. I would let it go. However, should you feel so inclined to look into the matter further, here is a link to a general information site ( injury-law.freeadvice.com) on libel/slander/defamation suits: [ http://injury-law.freeadvice.com/libel_and_slander/ ] Their definition/description of "defamation" is as follows: "Defamation, sometimes called "defamation of character", is spoken or written words that falsely and negatively reflect on a living person's reputation. If a person or the news media says or writes something about you that is understood to lower your reputation, or that keeps people from associating with you, defamation has occurred. Slander and libel are two forms of defamation." Here is their definition of slander: "Slander is a spoken defamation." And their definition/description of "libel": "Libel is a written defamation. Generally, radio and television broadcasts that are defamatory are considered to be libel, rather than slander." In your situation, I suppose the fax could be considered libel, while your sister's verbal accusations could be slander. Again, however, lawsuits involving these types of defamation *usually* involve more public settings with wider audiences, such as the media, or perhaps a speech at a public assembly. From the same legal site: "CAN I SUE SOMEONE WHO SAYS OR WRITES SOMETHING DEFAMATORY ABOUT ME? In order to prove defamation, you have to be able to prove that what was said or written about you was false. If the information is true, or if you consented to publication of the material, you will not have a case. However, you may bring an defamatory action if the comments are so reprehensible and false that they effect your reputation in the community or cast aspersions on you." It would seem to me that your "case" is not on a scale that most lawyers who handle defamation suits would take, but given the gravely serious nature of the accusations against you, you *may* have a case against your sister. From the same site: WHAT DAMAGES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SLANDER OR LIBEL? If you have been defamed you may seek both actual damages, to recover the harm that you have suffered, and punitive damages to punish the person who made the remark (and serve as an example to deter others). If the defamation improperly accused you of a crime or reflected on your profession, the Court or jury can assess the damages. For other types of defamation you must prove some actual damage to be able to recover." This would be good for you to read in more detail (from [ http://injury-law.freeadvice.com/libel_and_slander/libel_claim_defenses.htm] : "WHAT ARE THE DEFENSES TO A LIBEL CLAIM? [i.e., what your sister would likely do in her defense if she were sued by you for defamation]: There are three main defenses to a libel claim (other than asserting that it never happened or that you were never involved): ...The third defense is claiming, and proving, that the statement was an opinion, not an assertion of a fact. Since this last defense is only as good as the weakest or worst, but still reasonable, misinterpretation, it's not one you really want to rely on. There's a world of difference between saying "I think he's a crook," and "he's a crook". Especially if a third party might inadvertently leave out the first two words when passing your message on." And finally, (from the same site): "CAN I SUE SOMEONE WHO SAYS OR WRITES SOMETHING DEFAMATORY ABOUT ME? In order to prove defamation, you have to be able to prove that what was said or written about you was false. If the information is true, or if you consented to publication of the material, you will not have a case. However, you may bring a defamatory action if the comments are so reprehensible and false that they effect your reputation in the community or cast aspersions on you." 4) If so, what type of attorney specializes in this field? They're called, believe it or not, "libel and slander lawyers/attorneys." Here is a link to AttorneyPages.com's page on libel/slander lawyers for your state of North Carolina: [ http://attorneypages.com/576NC/index.htm ] One page back from that is the main libel/slander lawyer directory page: [ http://attorneypages.com/576/index.htm ] [ http://attorneypages.com/576/index.htm ] Google search strategy: Keywords: personal defamation suits: ://www.google.com/search?hl=en&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&q=personal+defamation+suits libel slander law: ://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&safe=off&q=libel+slander+law libel slander attorneys: ://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&safe=off&q=libel+slander+attorneys I certainly hope that this will help you to deal with this most pressing and difficult time. If any of the assumptions I have made are incorrect to the point that it severely impacted my Answer, please let me know in a Clarification. Do not hesitate to ask for Clarification on anything I have written here. I wish you the best of luck in resolving this matter to everyones mutual satisfaction, and againmy condolences on the loss of your father. Sincerely, omniscientbeing-ga P.S.: Here is a link to the Google search results page for keywords "loss of father grieving process", on which you may find links to pages that cope with the grieving process, which may be of help to both you and your family (including your sister) at this time: [Note: click the "similar pages" link under any link that you found to be particularly useful and would like more of] ://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&safe=off&q=loss+of+father+grieving+process Here is a link to a page that outlines the true purpose of a funeral, and how they begin the "transformative process": http://www.learningplaceonline.com/stages/transform/funera
Re: Defamation of Character
From: omniscientbeing-ga on 11 Sep 2003 00:34 PDT
sjh-ga, One thing I forgot to add in my Answer-- Even if an autopsy were conducted which showed that death occured due to the spinal cord injury, or natural causes resulting from or related to the injury--that doesn't mean that he couldn't have been pushed off the bed by someone. In other words, the autopsy might prove what event killed him, but it can't necessarily show how that event itself was caused. omniscientbeing-ga
Re: Defamation of Character
From: expertlaw-ga on 12 Sep 2003 13:11 PDT
Dear sjh, Your question poses some interesting jurisdictional and "choice of law" problems, due to the fact that actions occurred in several states and thus several states' laws could be involved in any litigation. While the general tort of "defamation" remains very similar to its common law antecedent, pretty much every jurisdiction has modified the law by statute, and thus the elements of "defamation" and immunities offered as a defense to that charge, will vary to some degree from state to state. Although the analysis in the following Google Answer is under California law, I think the issues raised in Part IV build on some of what omniscientbeing was getting at, with regard to why you might want to consider if bringing a defamation suit is your best step: http://answers.google.com/answers/threadview?id=244096 If you do decide to proceed with litigation, one of the things you will wish to consider is whether some of the conduct at issue might have risen to the level of "defamation per se". In an ordinary defamation case, the plaintiff must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that he was defamed. In "defamation per se", the *defendant* must prove that the remarks were not defamatory. Most jurisdictions recognize an accusation that somebody committed a crime of "moral turpitude" as "defamation per se" - and it seems that accusations of murder should qualify. There can also be a fine line between "opinion" and "accusation". Depending upon the law that governs and the precise statements made, a nebulous accusation such as "I think he may have murdered our father" may qualify as opinion. Opinions are not ordinarily actionable as defamation. At the same time, depending upon the facts and circumstances, even a somewhat ambiguous statement may qualify as an assertion of fact, or the jurisdiction (like California) may have amended its statute so as to eliminate that distinction and instead interpose a different test for when a statement is defamatory. - Expertlaw
Re: Defamation of Character
From: expertlaw-ga on 16 Sep 2003 07:34 PDT
Dear sjh, I should have added that I am sorry to hear about your loss, and the unnecessary additional troubles you are going through. I didn't mean to overlook the human side when commenting on the legal issues involved with your situation. - expertlaw
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How to Create an Animated Flag
Share this video
In this Cinema 4D tutorial, you'll learn how to create a flag on a pole that flaps in the wind. First you'll use Cinema 4D's Cloth tag and learn how to anchor parts of the flag that you want to stay in place, using Fix Points. Fix Points is good when the flag pole doesn't move around, like a flag on a castle. You'll then use the Cloth Collider tag to stop the flag from intersecting the flag pole, and adjust Forces to get the flag flapping nicely. You'll literally stick a texture to the flag, using the Stick Texture tag. Lastly, you'll deal with a flag pole that is being waved around, like at the start of a car race. Here you'll use the Cloth Belt tag, which will directly attach the points to the flag pole.


text:
Beer: It's why we were created. Our parents made us after having too much beer, and they nurtured us so that we could one day grow to love beer as well.
And it's a great time to be a beer drinker in Dallas. While local craft breweries continue to flourish, the places that serve their brews are increasing as well. Beer bars are offering wide selections that rotate regularly and keep your beer palate engaged. You'll never get bored with beer now. (Not that you ever were in danger of such a thing.)
Here are the best beer bars in Dallas. Before you dive in, let your boss know you'll be knocking off early today, and invite him along if you can stomach it. Beer is how promotions are born, too.
Goodfriend (pictured above) If you have any doubt as to Goodfriend's status as a premier Dallas beer bar, look to the first birthday party they recently had with Lakewood Brewing Company. Despite stifling heat, hundreds of beer nerds came out to swill everything from light summer pilsners to heavy double IPAs aged in oak.
If you missed that party, don't worry: Special events are commonplace here. In the meantime, drink till you're hungry, and then pound a burger to pad your stomach before you get back to drinking. There are plenty of taps to explore here.
See Also: Lakewood Brewery's First Birthday Party Was an Appropriately Drunken Celebration
Craft and Growler Just look at those shiny guns. You could mainline beer here. Craft and Growler's unique dispensing system grants you access to 30 brews, and the fact that they fill up to-go buckets for for customers on the run means they cycle through their inventory fast. The high turnover leads to a quickly rotating list of beers and also guarantees ridiculously fresh suds.
You also get a space that's filled with serious beer nerds. If you're the type to geek out on IBUs and ABVs, you'll likely meet your new best friend here. Maybe, if you're lucky, he or she will take a shine to you and you can get started on the next generation of beer drinkers.
The Common Table If you're in Uptown and you need a fix, The Common Table sports a respectable offering on the taps. Follow their Facebook page to see what they've tapped today. They're always offering new beers, often with a visit from the brewers responsible for the keg. And when the weather is nice, they have one of the nicest decks in Uptown. Bask in the warm sun and sip on a chilly Community Lager. Wait, what do you do for a living again?
We Believe Local Journalism is Critical to the Life of a City
Engaging with our readers is essential to the Observer's mission. Make a financial contribution or sign up for a newsletter, and help us keep telling Dallas's stories with no paywalls.
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See Also: The Reuben Chronicles: When Sauerkraut and Bacon Unite
The Meddlesome Moth The second you walk into The Meddlesome Moth you know you've stepped into a beer bar of the highest order. Nondescript black tap handles run the length of the bar, offering an endless array of craft beer from local and national brewers. That's not even counting the bottle list, which runs pages and describes the reach-in coolers behind the bar that are absolutely busting with obscure beers. If you've been craving something that's hard to find, the Moth may be your best chance of salvation. And the patio outside is the perfect spot to find a little beer zen.
Strangeways Strangeways is a bar with a little bit of an edge. It brings some grit to the beer scene and attracts a cast of characters that you won't find in any other beer bar in Dallas. There's always a scooter or seven parked out front, and tattooed skin usually outnumbers virgin flesh.
The beer selection is first-rate too. Come and sip a Velvet Hammer and see if you don't agree. You do agree, right? If not, just have another Velvet Hammer. Keep drinking until you revel in the fact that the beer scene in Dallas is actually pretty great. And don't worry about that paperwork you forgot to file before leaving the office. That was five beer bars ago and after a bender like this, you've likely been fired anyway.


text:
BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A hunter attacked by a wounded grizzly in a Montana forest was killed not by the bear, but by a gunshot fired by a companion trying to save him, authorities said Friday.
Lincoln County Sheriff Roby Bowe said an autopsy determined 39-year-old Steve Stevenson of Winnemucca, Nev., died of a single gunshot to the chest. The cause of death was determined by a medical examiner with the Montana State Crime Lab.
The shot was fired by 20-year-old Ty Bell, also of Winnemucca, as he attempted to stop the bear's attack. No charges are expected, Bowe said.
The autopsy found bite marks on Stevenson's leg caused by the bear.
"We're fairly convinced it was obviously an accident," Bowe said. "But the county attorney will review the final report once we're done."Read the rest here at Yahoo News


text:
Everyone No Matter Your Worth, How Small or Big You think you are?
Creative Arts Solution
a non-governmental Foundation
a non-governmental Foundation
Article :
Everyone No Matter Your Worth, How Small or Big You think you are?
Author: Olusola David, Ayibiowu
Edition: 23
Year: Dec, 2017
Published: Online by Creative Arts Solution Foundation
Find it on: Wikimedia Commons 1, 2, Wikia,
This article is written to address "Everyone no matter your worth, how small or big you think you are?"
You don't really need to worry or succumb to uncertainty about life, no matter what you have experienced in the past or you are experiencing presently like difficulty that you may be going through in life as the rich also cry, because we are all human beings with flesh and blood.
Generally speaking in the technical terms they use to say to identify or qualify a particular thing or points out a solution to a problem, when it comes to technicalities of the sect that's by relating it to a group of people following a specific ideas or leaders or human beings as a group.
We need to knowledge ourselves when it comes to humanity and until when we have come to the realization and recognizes the truth that "Everybody was born an original, but nowadays a lots of people end up being copies in their life time". Simply because of copycat attitude in which they process and never even border to discover who they are and what they are really created to do on earth?
Furthermore, so don't let health challenge or physical disability or monetary wise or people to devalue you because "There is ability in disability". You are a tremendous blessing, relevant and important personality to your environment, community, nation, from generation to generations, it doesn't matter what people says about you now because your story can change for the better at any point in time.
And this will insulate you from any form of attacks, arrows of undue criticism, fake rumors, and negativity that may occur in one way or the other as you remain original and be positive in your thoughts, body, soul and spirit.
To make this process in life easier for you, and that is why this nuggets of wisdom, it is written so that you can exercise your God-given authority.
Let's come to think of it when we contrasts and compare, meditate on a nugget.
Nuggets of what Life is all about?
- Why a man is born today, tomorrow he is dead?
- Why men's lives in a mansion today, tomorrow they lives underground?
- Why people drives a car today, tomorrow an ambulance drives them?
- Why man eats whatever he wants today, tomorrow he becomes food for insects?
- Strategy exist as human beings is seen resting in his mansion or house today, he or she is resting in a coffin tomorrow. And they say "Rest in Peace (RIP)"!
- Why human beings we eats all sort and all kinds of fruits today, and by tomorrow we becomes manure to those trees?
- A man is known as the richest man ever in the world's today, this same man tomorrow doesn't even know where or what will happen to his riches their after or when the person dies and leave all the wealth behind as death is inevitable for man
What's the meaning of life after all?
Sometime this question may cause people to give different meanings and opinions about life and may lead to confusion if care is not taking.
Things are happening in our lives.
For example, it is possible for a person to holds himself responsible, by wondering what's wrong in is life until now, what's the problem with relationships, family, friends, clients etc.
Why reading some quotes and watching some inspirational videos that tells you to take action, to be yourself, to be kind to make your life happier etc.
All that are nice but the question is how?
You may have your work, car, home, garden, family or going to the gym, but still doesn't understand life.
Seeing inspiration videos are saying about taking action and don't understand it.
You may want to be a better person and make everyone to like and love you but you may be missing something that you don't know.
Is it that the point of life? Is Work, fun etc.? Or should you have more activities?
You may be totally confused, and don't know the meaning of life and don't even understand if there is one.
So you may ask is life work-home-gym-fun-friends-home etc.? ,
In other words, If you have the mind-set of selfish ambitions, until when you begin to exchange ideas of selfish reasons or ambitions for selfless service, you may not be able to understand the true meaning of life and it's purposes..
On a daily basis we need to plan our life today, because someone's may not live to see tomorrow, but when your life is well planned you won't be afraid of anything.
Now let's think about this?
The breath of life that we breath in and out of our nostrils which is the life and power of God, given to man to animate him. The Hebrew word for spirit is ruach, which means "wind, breath, air, spirit." The life of God lives on and on; the immaterial part of man was designed to live eternally. The only question we may want to ask about breath of life is it free?
Breath of life= free, Church entrance = free, Christ's salvation = free, Eternal life = free, God's love = free
In contrast of others
Alcohol =pay, Cigarette = pay, Nightclub entrance fee= pay, Prostitution = pay, Powers to rule the world = pay.
Then we ought to begin to ask ourselves, why spend money on something you can get for free and why are people paying for hell, while Paradise is heavenly free?
The days we celebrate in delights.
We often think and celebrate all this days.
For example,
Valentine's Day, Birthday, Boxing day, Children's day, Christmas, Father's day, Farmer's day, Independence Day,
Mother's day, Our day, Teacher's day, This day, That day, Day in Day out, etc.
But have you ever thought of Judgement Day, do you think is going to be a day of celebration or condemnation for those that refuses to follow and obey His command?


text:
Robin Sharples-Ray
- Certified Professional Midwife 2005 – North American Registry of Midwives
- Licensed Midwife 2005 – State of Arizona
I am a wife and mother of 7 wonderful children – 4 boys and 3 girls. Keith and I have been married since 1981. I have had 7 unmedicated births at a variety of locations – from hospital, birth center to home. My first child was born in 1987 and my last in 2001.
I have successfully breastfed all of my children for as long as 9 months to 2 1/2 years! In that time span of giving birth I have seen and experienced a lot of change in the field of childbirth.
The birth of my first child, Kendall empowered me to pursue becoming a childbirth educator. My teaching has led me to teach for particular doctors, privately as well as publicly to larger classes in hospitals. I have taught 8 week-4week series, refresher and the all day, "everything you ever wanted to know about childbirth" in an 8 hour period. I have taught women with disabilities, single women, women on bed rest, women who have placed their babies for adoption, as well as those planning on homebirth.
I teach to turn the fear of birth into a respect for birth and help moms embrace and accept the body's process of bringing forth life. It continues to bring me great joy to share what I learn while working with laboring mothers in the field of birth. I love hearing of their empowered stories after they use some of the tools and techniques they learned in class or developed on their own. I don't practice with one particular philosophy of education. I have blended many birthing styles and philosophies as I don't feel there is ONE right way to birth.
My first doula work was supporting my sister in law with the birth of my first nephew as my brother in law has asthma and didn't feel he could be the only "coach". It was a great job to have in between giving birth and nursing my seven children! I started my work as a doula to help take some of the pressure off the support person- to help them enjoy the experience and to help them feel confident in their support of the mom. I continue to do this work to help families get off to a good start and feel positive in their roles of raising their children by helping create a positive birth experience. I have supported women and their families in a multitude of ways. I have been the doula hired to support the mother, father, grandmother, siblings only, single moms as well as those placing their babies for adoption.
My journey into midwifery started after the birth of my 6th child, Kellen at home with out the assistance of my midwives. His quick arrival and our calm handling of the situation had the midwives asking me if I had ever thought of becoming a midwife. His birth led me to feel the Lord had been nudging me in this direction the whole time. After a 5 year apprenticeship with a lovely local Glendale midwife and self study I opened AZ Womb Service in Glendale, AZ. My office is in the west Phoenix area in the city of Peoria, located just off the Loop 101.
Birth is not an illness or something to be feared. It is a natural physiological process that God made so perfectly! There are too many words to describe the powerful yet peaceful journey birth can be. I do see your care in a more holistic approach. I feel women can be responsible and make informed decisions regarding their care as well as that of their babies. I also see my role as advocating for those choices. It is my hope and prayer that AZ Womb Service can provide you with a nurturing, educational, empowering and enriching birth experience.
Arizona Womb Service Logo
The artwork was designed by Tara Kaplan from New Hampshire. She designed this in partial payment for work I did in helping her become a childbirth educator. She is also a doula. The art was painted on silk. I see this woman as a representative of all women- she is strong, loving and protective of the baby she is carrying. The baby is shown as the "star" in the mother's womb as he or she should be. If you look closely, you can see a hand holding the womb up. I see that as the hand of God, not only forming and creating this baby but also holding and presenting this baby as a blessing to the mother and to the world. The logo design was created by Julia Bullock, a retired logo artist who is a member of the church I attend.


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BMW showcases 94-MPG BMW i8 plug-in hybrid and i3 EV in Sochi olympics ads (video)
"Hello future"The Sochi winter olympics are a big media event, and BMW has decided to spend a truckload of cash to promote its new i8 plug-in hybrid 'halo' car, which should go for sale in 2014. I'm always torn on these expensive engineering and design showcase pieces. On one hand, they'll never be made in large enough numbers to put a big dent on fuel consumption in the transportation sector, but on the other, they are very influential on the rest of the market. New technological innovations tend to enter the market at the high-end and then become more affordable over time.
Seen from that point of view, I think it's great that many of the top auto engineers are working on making plug-in vehicles rather than V12 monsters. Those with enough coin to buy these are subsidizing the development of these technologies for the rest of us, kind of like how early computers are cellphones were out of reach for most people but someone still needed to buy them for the technology to be viable.
So anyway, here's the BMW olympics ad:
On the i8, BMW writes: "The three-cylinder combustion engine in the BMW i8 develops 170 kW/231 hp and drives the rear wheels, while the 96 kW/131 hp electric motor draws its energy from a lithium-ion battery, which can be charged from a conventional 110 volt power outlet as well as a 220 volt electric vehicle charger, and sends its power to the front axle. This bespoke plug-in hybrid system, developed and produced by the BMW Group, enables a range in everyday driving of up to 35 kilometers (approx. 22 miles) and a top speed of 120 km/h (approx. 75 mph) on electric power alone, coupled with a "glued-to-the-road" all-wheel driving experience headlined by powerful acceleration and a dynamically-biased distribution of power through enthusiastically taken corners.
The more powerful of the two power sources drives the rear wheels and uses the electric boost from the hybrid system to deliver hallmark BMW driving pleasure while at the same time offering groundbreaking levels of efficiency. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes just 4.4 seconds, yet average fuel consumption – as calculated in the EU test cycle for plug-in hybrid vehicles – stands at the equivalent of 94 miles per US gallon from launch."
Here's the artsy launch video for the i8:
Both the current i3 and i8 are based on concepts that were unveiled back in 2011 (the i8 is pretty similar to an earlier concept that was shown in 2009):
There are also some pretty cool ads for the more affordable and 100% electric i3. The first one is probably the best:
Via BMW USA
See also: BMW unveils production i8 plug-in hybrid (94 MPG, coming to US in 2014)


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On The Path to Wahhabizing Syria – Girls in Full Black at Elementary School
Never before throughout history would Syrian girls be dipped in black from top to toe at schools & at these ages. Were our fathers & grandfathers and their fathers & grandfathers all the way to first Muslims all misguided and only these new fanatic Wahhabis infesting Syria under NATO's patronage the 'Real Muslims'?!
At an elementary school in a city under Moath Al Khatib's Nusra Front control in Aleppo's northern countryside.
Wahhabizing Syria into small Islamist (not Islamic) Emirates to accept the new Caliph appointed by NATO, Erdogan thinks he's the one, each Qatari Hamad (the Emir and the Premier) thinks he's the one, each of the 30,000 Al Saud Emirs & their king think they're the ones, and only the black operation room in the Pentagon knows who will be the one they chose..!
River to Sea Uprooted Palestinian
The views expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of this Blog!


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Lost In Reefs
The story of Lost in Reefs revolves around an ancient city hidden beneath the sea where it was fabled to hold residence to a mutual bond between humans and dragons. As the game implies, you are the only one in the world who knows that this ancient civilization exists. Therefore, it is up to you to confirm the theories and unearth the ruins that were sunk deep onto the ocean floor. Your exploration will soon reward you with The Heart of the City, but you can only rebuild the town piece by piece, a total of 20 structures you have to purchase using supplies you collect throughout your journey.


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2015 SCV Winter Guard – Final Audition
The two-time World Champion Santa Clara Vanguard Winter Guard will host a second 2015 audition for their tenth anniversary season, on Saturday, October 4 from Noon to 8PM at Ida Price Middle School in San Jose. Registration and collection of necessary paperwork for any prospective members—which is available online—will begin at 11AM on Saturday, October 4.
REGISTRATION & Check-In begin at 11AM on Saturday, October 4.
Read the rest of the article here.
Posted by News Editor on Wednesday, September 24th, 2014. Filed under Winter Guard International News.


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Portland Trail Blazers center Greg Oden has spent much of his first few NBA seasons injured and in street clothes. He didn't play at all in 2007-08, played 61 games last season, and lasted just 22 this season.
When actually on the court playing, he's been fairly solid and occasionally terrific for some stretches, but the story of his early pro career has been health issues. Still, there's hope for the future.
Now, there's a new distraction. Naked Greg Oden photos have surfaced. We at InsideHoops.com ignored all aspects of this story, made sure to avoid seeing the photos, and until now, didn't even mention this on our site at all. But on Tuesday, reporters met with Oden, who apologized for the situation. Which basically confirms that the pictures are real. If you want to check them out, I'm sure Google can help you, but we'll pass on guiding anyone to that sort of stuff.
Anyway, in the following video, Oden says the situation is embarrassing and that it was something that happened over a year and a half ago. Here's Greg apologizing for the naked pictures:


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Macedonia – MFA Milošoski Meets Italian Minister of European Affairs, Andrea Ronchi July 7, 2010Posted by Yilan in Italy, Macedonia.
Tags: Andrea Ronchi, Antonio Milososki, NATO
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The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Macedonia, Antonio Milošoski, had a meeting today with the Minister of European Affairs of the Italian Republic, Andrea Ronchi, who is staying in our country for a one-day visit.
At the meeting, the two Ministers expressed their mutual satisfaction with the thus-far development and the promotion of the bilateral cooperation between the two countries. Mr. Milošoski and Mr. Ronchi also discussed issues of mutual interest, particularly exchanging views and opinions on matters concerning the region of Southeast Europe, as well as on matters on the international agenda.
The current developments regarding the accession of the Republic of Macedonia to the European Union and NATO were also discussed at the meeting, leading to the presented expectation that our country could rely on the strong political support by the Italian Republic in the coming period, as well, serving as a certain encouragement to the Republic of Macedonia in the further fulfilment of its strategic commitments. Minister Milošoski underlined the necessity for promptly assigning a date for the start of the accession negotiations with the EU, particularly focusing on the dedication of the Republic of Macedonia in finding a solution to the dispute with Greece regarding our constitutional name.


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These Apps Made Me Easy Cash!
Have you ever gotten those invites to certain apps where if you download it, you add your card, then you invite your friends, and for every friend that joins you get cash? Do you ever wonder if those apps are legit? Well, I have some great news for you! They are LEGIT! So far I […]


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So, it's Sunday evening, and I'm in the Matron Hive, as I made so much XP the night before that I nearly ran the table on 88th level, after spending way too long at 87. I check in with Lanfear (read: get another buff-outfitting!), and off I go. Things are quiet, and if anything, I'm cocky. I've got the Redskins game on, and am delighting in them snatching defeat out of the jaws of victory once again (I'm a 49ers fan, so I am GOOD and bitter!).
A group shows up (it was some of the al-Thor clan). They were perfectly nice guys, and I figure "Woot! I'll show em that I can contribute! Look at my Infinity xp meter! I was rocking already, I'll really turn up my effort for them!"
The next thing I know, I'm at a long wall (mistake #1), allow myself to get surrounded (mistake #2), and then am slow on the draw to get some more stamina into me (strike 3!).
>>>Olthoi Swarm Eviserator runs you through!
>>>Death says, "Hiya gimp! Longtime no see! You didn't want that melee defense tattoo, did you? Ha ha ha!!!!one"<<<
I not only died, but I dropped my tattoo (don't ask why I'm not wearing it yet, long story). Funzor.
So it's back to Lanfear, and back to the hive. Vitae's gone like a second later, and I'm off to find a good spot to once again kick in my share to the fellow. Thank goodness for BS2 finding my body for me.
Anyway. You know those big acid pits? There had to be --minimum-- 20 bugs spread out in one, and there I am (Imagine a capital letter "M" with me in the middle at the entrance to the pit, but the bugs are clustered down a hallway along each side of the "M").
I run into the pit, and (in my mind) say, "Nyhha! Nyhaa!" and then run back out.
>>>You suffer 31 damage from acid!
Ouchie. But no big whoop. However, only like 2 bugs are following me out at a time.
So, I run back into the pit, and run (this is true) into a corner.
>>>Olthoi Swarm Noble says, "DOGPILE ON THE GIMP!"
>>>You suffer 31 damage from acid!
>>>You suffer 31 damage from acid!
>>>You suffer 31 damage from acid!
>>>Death holds his sides, laughing.<<<
I think I was down to about 50 health, when I kinda realized that I had better get the hell out. I just had to figure out HOW, since there was a wall o' bugs in front of me, like that movie "Joe's Apartment," except that the bugs were conga-line-dancing at the thought of eating my oh-so-tasty flesh:
>>>Olthoi Swarm Soldier says, "Tequila!"
Anyway. Tai thinks quick (or at least as quick as this gimp can think), and comes up with this series:
1. Jumping over them ---MIGHT--- work, but:
1a. If I died, I would look even more like a tool than I already did to the al-Thors, and
1b. One of them had asked me in public fellow why I was making him lag so much (he asked if I was gearing -- if he only knew that I'm so pathetic that I just started using decal in earnest a month or two ago, and only began experimenting with it a month or two before that!).
1c. Body recovery in an acid pit could only be done by people who remember the days of the Metos pits. Yes, I r teh old skool.
So I figured I'd already caused them (the al-Thors) enough grief, albiet without malice. That left option #2
2. Crack an Aphus Lassel portal gem and GET THE HELL OUT OF THERE!
>>>You have been teleported<<<
At this point, I've peed my covenant out of fear, but I send a tell in the Fellow, to the effect of:
>>>You say to your fellowship, "Thanks guys, and good hunting. See ya around!"
Yeah, assuming you're "around" monkey island that is.
A little known (I suspect) secret of Aphus Lassel is that if you just run on the beach and kill everything you see, you'll make pretty decent XP (well, assuming you're me. God help you if you are, though). I guess I can get it from 6-8 million an hour. You've got variety (you have to kill EVERYTHING you see, by the way), and no UCMers to deal with. I just shrug, buff my fire bow, and take off.
Yeah, I meant to do this. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.


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Tuesday, January 10, 2012
The Slover
John Slover helped set the terms of the conversation every sommelier will be having in the next five years, and for that reason, as well as his extraordinary palate, I will go ahead and say that he is a genius. Yep, that's what I said, genius.
John realized that the Next Big Thing for sommeliers would not so much be the new region or grape variety as it would be a pricing strategy. He figured out that in an era of vast price escalation and limited access for the consumer to mature wines, that the math had to somehow reward getting wine out of bottles and into patron's glasses. And so he invented the half a bottle program, by which customers can purchase half the wine in a full bottle, and leave the rest of the bottle for another customer to try. The majority of the wine list is offered in this fashion by John at both Ciano and Bar Henry, two restaurants where he oversees the respective wine programs. In effect, he doubled the glass pour size to make sharing the cost of a bottle easier for the guest and also tenable for the restaurants.
Sharing the cost of maintaining a publicly available wine cellar is largely what restaurant wine programs are all about, in a fundamental sense. By going back to the core precepts that define a restaurant and tinkering with the financial spread, John really broke new ground. It is something that other sommeliers have also found ways to do, for instance in offering large format wines to be shared by the glass, but few people have dealt with the subject of pricing as comprehensively as John has. The costs associated with running a restaurant seem likely to continue to rise, as do wine prices, making John's precedent all the more relevant, and I applaud him.
I recently sat down with John, whom I think of as the Bobby Fischer of New York sommeliers, and listened in as he explained the wine program at Ciano in his own words. If you want a sneak preview of what other people will also be saying in the next few years, you can go ahead and hear John now.
2 comments:
- TWG said...
You mean a young genius like Bobby Fischer was, right?
- January 13, 2012 at 3:55 PM
- What We Drank said...
I like John very much, and I think your touching upon his deference to the 27% wine cost, a raspberry to the old dog that is the P&L, is very apt.
- January 14, 2012 at 9:00 PM
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A Prayer For Our Country
"We're not Democrats first. We're not Republicans first. We are Americans first. We're patriots first. We all want what's best for this country." – President Obama
Have a blessed day everyone, and don't forget to smile. ♥
Serenity Spectrum is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.


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|go ahead... be a heretic
Re: rss feed titleby EvdB (Deacon)
|on May 20, 2005 at 08:24 UTC ( #458876=note: print w/replies, xml )
|Need Help??
Not strictly related but I thought I'd mention that there are also RSS feeds to perlmonks available at
You can also subscribe to feeds for individual nodes to see if they have any replies. For example this node could be watched using http://prlmnks.org/rss/458722.xml. This is useful as replies to replies do not cause you to recieve a message as they may not be a reply to a node you authored.
--Me, me, me: http://prlmnks.org/rss, http://scrpbk.com/~evdb, http://ecclestoad.co.uk.
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