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Project profile: Shams Ma'an solar plant, Jordan
Big Project ME speaks to First Solar, the EPC contractor of the largest PV plant in the Middle East
Earlier this year, First Solar, an American-owned photovoltaic solar energy solutions provider, announced that it had commissioned the 52.5MW Shams Ma'an project in the Kingdom of Jordan.
With the project owned by a consortium of investors consisting of Diamond Generating Europe, Nebras Power QSC and the Kawar Group, the plant accounts for approximately 1% of Jordan's total energy generation capacity. Shams Ma'an currently has a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the National Electric Power Company (NEPCO), Jordan's power generation and distribution authority.
First Solar significantly contributed to the development of the project before divesting its stake and being appointed as the Engineering, Procurement and Construction contractor.
The plant produces clean electricity through the use of more than 600,000 high-performance thin film modules provided by First Solar, which deliver up to 5% more specific energy in Ma'an than conventional crystalline silicon panels, it says. The modules themselves are mounted on single-axis trackers that allow the facility to generate up to 20% more energy.
First Solar constructed the facility with a workforce that was almost entirely Jordanian, with the company spending more than 40,000 man-hours on training alone, which had the by-product of creating a new skills resource for the country.
With the plant now up and running, First Solar's Dr Raed Bkayrat, vice president, Business Development, Middle East, sat down for a chat with Big Project Middle East to discuss the construction and development of the plant and the impact it will have on Jordan's energy grid, while also examining the wider implications of its success for the Middle East's renewable energy quest.
What did you face as EPC contractor during the construction of the project?
Building a power plant in a new market always presents its own challenges. The biggest challenge we faced was the absence of a technical knowledge base in Jordan and we addressed this by investing in over 40,000 man hours of training. I'm proud to say that, as a result of Shams Ma'an, Jordan now has a valuable pool of personnel that are experienced in building utility-scale solar in the country.
Can you talk about some of the technology used on the project? How has it improved performance and durability, compared to existing technology in the market?
Shams Ma'an produces clean electricity using over 600,000 high-performance First Solar Series 4 thin film modules, which deliver up to 5% more specific energy in Ma'an than other crystalline silicon panels. These panels possess a superior temperature coefficient and spectral response, resulting in greater energy yield in typical field operating temperatures and a proven energy yield advantage in humid environments.
In addition to this, Shams Ma'an is the first PV project in the region to feature the use of the First Solar Tracker, which allows the plant to generate up to 20% more energy.
What are the biggest challenges around the operation and maintenance of the plant? How is First Solar addressing them?
The primary challenge that projects in the region face is the impact of soiling on the modules. While First Solar's thin film modules offer a superior spectral response which minimises the impact of soiling when compared to crystalline silicon panels, our solar power plants in the Middle East still require a cleaning regime.
The Shams Ma'an power plant is being cleaned using dry brushes mounted on a trolley that is manually guided across the arrays. This is a method we piloted with the 13MW first phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, and it has been tremendously successful in lowering the impact of soiling on energy production without using water.
Other challenges typically posed by the region include the ability of PV panels to withstand the rugged conditions that they operate in. Shams Ma'an, however, uses First Solar Series 4 modules that have been independently certified for reliable performance in high temperature, high humidity, extreme desert and coastal environments.
These are among the toughest PV modules available and one of a select few that have successfully passed the Atlas 25+ durability test, which is the gold standard for PV module durability.
How much of an impact will the project have on Jordan's energy needs and production?
The development of Shams Ma'an, and other renewable projects like it, keeps Jordan on track to achieve its energy generation objectives. The Kingdom has historically relied on imports to address its energy needs, as it does not possess large fossil fuel reserves, unlike its regional counterparts.
In fact, recent reports indicate that an estimated 97% of the Jordan's energy is imported, accounting for a big percentage of the annual government budget – budget allocations that could be spent elsewhere. Also worth mentioning is the regional instability and the repercussions that accompany it – this has not only affected energy supply from neighbours like Egypt and Iraq, it has also increased Jordan's refugee population, and thus its energy demand.
The development of projects like Shams Ma'an reduces the Kingdom's dependence on foreign hydrocarbons, with solar power being a sustainable locally sourced alternative, given Jordan boasts one of the highest rates of solar irradiation worldwide.
The facility is the largest operating PV solar power plant in the region and is silently generating enough clean electricity to power 35,000 average Jordanian homes. The plant will also reduce Jordan's carbon footprint by displacing approximately 90,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year, equivalent to removing about 20,000 cars from its roads.
The development of Shams Ma'an also contributes to the Kingdom's energy goals in a different way. Shams Ma'an is considered a project that was built for Jordan by Jordanians, as the core team was made up of Jordanians, as were the 600 workers that were on-site at the peak of its construction. Additionally, a number of workers were locally hired from the region of Ma'an.
Prior to working on the plant, these employees lacked any experience in the solar industry, but by the time it was completed, First Solar had invested 40,000 man-hours in the training of its workforce, thereby equipping its Jordanian workforce with a valuable set of skills.
As a result, due to First Solar's investment in the professional development of its employees, these citizens are now well positioned to play a role in their government's ambitious efforts to achieve energy security through renewable energy.
Finally, what is First Solar's view of the energy market in the MENA region?
We foresee bright futures for the renewable energy market here in the MENA region. We are now seeing investments in solar energy being made as a genuine way of addressing the increasing energy needs plaguing the region, as opposed to just a means of complying with eco-friendly legislation. Solar energy's proven reliability and sensible economics are driving countries like the UAE to lead the way with investments in clean energy.
In fact, the emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai are leading the energy transition with innovative policies designed to encourage renewables in general and solar in particular. We're also witnessing a growing momentum in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which just announced a revised target of 9.5GW as part of its Vision 2030 plan.
When you take into account that these initiatives are being taken by countries rich in fossil fuels, it only reinforces the fact that sunlight has truly come of age as a reliable and affordable energy source, capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with conventional power generators.
We believe that the industry's continued success will stem from its technology and innovation capabilities, combined with global expertise and the local insight that can be provided to clients – qualities we take great pride in at First Solar.


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Dear all,
until Thursday I have been using the older client on my Mac Book Air Mid 2012 running on macOS High Sierra, Version 10.13.6. Since the experience with the new client 7.5.1 on my PC has been great, I decided to install the new version also on my MacBookAir. I did not take any particular precautions, just downloaded the zip file, extracted the package and installed it (I also wanted to test if something wrong could happen by simply installing the new client without uninstalling the older version first).
After the installation was completed without particular errors it was not possible to load the client. Accessing from the browser would not work, as it would try to connect without finding the client, while if I tried to start FAHControl it would fire up, but I could not do anything, since the client was not detected. Worse, the UserEventAgent and the launchd daemons were clogging my CPU, fans spinning fast, notebook getting hot, batteries being emptied ultr@fast. On Friday I took some time to understand a little bit better what was going and soon realised that by uninstalling the client the correct way (using the supplied uninstaller) I could solve the issue related to the UserEventAgent and Launchd, with both going back to normal CPU loads.
I did try to install the 7.5.1 client a second time without success, with the same issues regarding UserEventAgent and Launchd: also this time, uninstalling the software with the uninstaller would solve the issue.
I have the feeling that my Security & Privacy settings are interfering with the installation of the client, but I do not know how to correct the situation: usually, if I try to install software which is downloaded outside the apple store circuit, the installation stops and I am asked to confirm my decision (of installing such a software) by inserting the administrator password. But this time, it does not happen, I do not get any warnings and in Settings>Security & Privacy, where I usually find the blocked applications, there is nothing to unlock.
Does anyone have any suggestions that could help to install the new client on my Mac?
Thank you!

subset: commoncrawl


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About Ring Sizes
Ring sizes are numerical or alphabetical values assigned to rings or fingers according to their size. The wide range of sizes allows for a system where people can find a ring that fits perfectly. A well-fitting ring is especially important for items such as wedding rings, which are expected to last a long time.
The correct ring size ensures comfort and prevents the ring from falling off or becoming too tight.
Your ring size is measured using different methods depending on where you live. In the United Kingdom, sizes are symbolised by different letters of the alphabet, and in other European countries, numbers are used. In the United States, numbers are also used, but they differ from European numbers. In general, the average size of a woman's ring finger is about 51 to 56mm on the inner circumference. In UK terms, this is L to P, European numbering 11 to 16, and 5 ¾ to 7 ¾ in the U.S.
Ring sizes take into account different types of finger shapes. Average fingers need rings that fit closely around the joint when slid on, but that stay comfortably in place once on. People whose joints are similar in size to the rest of their finger may have difficulty finding rings to stay on. The solution in such cases is to choose a slightly tighter size. The skin underneath the ring will eventually adapt for a more comfortable fit.
There are a few tools to help determine correct ring sizes. You can try to do-it-yourself measurement wrapping a piece of string around your finger or leave it to the professionals. Professional jewellers have a set of different ring sizes that can be tried on for accurate measurement. They might also use a chart that can be wrapped around your finger.
Time Frame
Getting your ring size measured is quick and easy. You can conveniently measure your ring size at home wrapping a piece of string around your finger and then measuring that string. At a jeweller, it usually just takes a few minutes as well. When ordering rings measured to specific sizes, if it's a typical size, it usually takes about two weeks to receive your ring.
Expert Insight
Whether you are purchasing a ring for yourself or for a loved one, finding the right size is extremely important. Thankfully, you do not have to work this out yourself. Go to any jeweller and they will be able to offer you advice on finding your ring size--or your loved one's. A jeweller will also suggest the best time of day for measuring, as fingers can be swollen or dry and "skinny" at various times during the day.
- http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1052398


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AIIMS jodhpur 2014 July recruitment 70 Senior Residents vacancy : Online applications are invited from Indian Citizens as per Govt. of India's Residency Scheme, for the following post of Senior Residents initially for a period of one (01) Year extendable upto three (3) years, in prescribed format and on the terms and conditions as mentioned in annexure 'A'.
Name of Post:- Senior Residents
Eligibility:- MD, DNB, M.Sc., PhD
Job Location:- Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Pay Scale:- Rs. 15600 – 39100/- Per Month
Last Date:- 31st July 2014
Hiring Process:- Written Test and Interview
Total no. of Posts:- 70 Posts
Age Limit:- 33 Years
Qualification:- MD, DNB in relevant field or MSc (physiology) with PhD (Medical Physiology).
Age Relaxation:- The upper age limit is relaxable for the following specified categories to the extent indicated below.
i) By 5 years for candidates belonging to SC/ST communities.
ii) By 3 years for candidates belonging to OBC communities.
iii) By 5 years for PH candidates.
Selection Procedure:- The Screening Interview / Written Examination may be conducted depending upon the number of Applications received.
Application Fee:- Rs. 1000/- for General and OBC candidates and Rs. 800/- for SC / ST Candidates. PH Candidates there is No Fee. You can pay only using online payment gateway. The gateway can accept Debit Card/ Credit Card or Net banking.
How to apply:- candidates are required to Apply through AIIMS, Jodhpur website www.aiimsjodhpur.edu.in between 10th July 2014 to 31st July 2014.
Click here to view the advertisement
LIKE InGovtJob.com on Facebook to get yourself updated towards latest Jobs.


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Slow the Aging Process-Be Chemical Free-Live Longer and Stronger:
Mindful Minerals Store is here to provide the consumer with 100% Natural options for Healthy Skin Care all our products have been researched and tested. Being a Consumer of Natural Products for your family can be hard. So we are here to let you know that we have taken the guess work out for you. All our products are Chemical Free and do help by slowing the aging process, all the Essential Oils we carry are 100% Pure. Everything from Deodorants, Scrubs, Bath Salts, are all 100% Natural and Safe for you. We campaign for healthy skin care in the world that is all. All the products have top grade ingredients and formulas nothing else. We just offer our products at a fair cost that is affordable for every house hold.
The Ingredients from Dead Sea Water and Mud has over 35 minerals and trace elements that we believe should be shared with everyone.
Being Mindful Minerals Store, all our products are free of parabens, synthetic ingredients, petrochemicals, phthalates, artificial fragrance and fillers. Instead our products are packed with Dead Sea minerals, and highly effective natural ingredients.
Here is more food for thought!
In Mindful Minerals alone their are 35 minerals & trace elements to assist in removing the toxins and letting in the minerals:
- Fight free radicals that age our skin
- Assist in detoxification of bio accumulated chemicals & radiation exposure
- Assist in the drainage of our lymphatic systems
Our Dead Sea Salts and Mud are Guaranteed 100% pure, unrefined, unbleached minerals from the Dead Sea, Jordan.
What you gain from Bathing in Mindful Mineral rich bath salts from the Dead Sea: SLOWING OF THE AGING PROCESS
- Improves circulation and the skin/moisture barrier.
- Relieves certain symptoms of Psoriasis–watch CNN video Helps to relieve certain symptoms of Psoriasis
- Contain the highest content of 21 minerals which are essential for proper skin function and cell to cell communication between the skin cells.
- Contain high concentration of Magnesium helps to reduce muscle and joint aches
- Deeply hydrates skin and provides the minerals needed to maintain a natural moisture balance
- Calms the skin and reduce redness and irritation caused by various skin conditions
- Helps to relieve certain Rheumatoid Conditions as the minerals are absorbed into the blood stream improving circulation
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles — up to 40% improvement in the depth of deep lines see: Skin Aging – Further research into Dead Sea salt benefits has shown a 40% reduction in the depth of wrinkling.
- Detoxifies the skin and body
- Helps improve Eczema and Acne
We fully guarantee the quality of our Dead Sea salts and Mud refunding any customer who is not completely satisfied.


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Street Snowboarding in Grand Hirafu
Seth Hill and Andy Stern getting hyped to hit this gnarly street spot.
Today we had a successful street mission gapping to this pillow on top of this pillar in Grand Hirafu. It was a big drop with a landing in the street. Andy Stern and Seth Hill both were there to get some shots. The feature was high profile, right near one of the main walkways in front of Grand Niseko's Family Lift. People were watching from the hotel balconies right above the feature, and tossed us each an Asahi beer off their deck. The second we finished building the feature, all the ski schools got done for the day and a huge crowd gathered to watch the session go down. Dropping to hoots and hollers Seth sent it into the landing which spit the rider into the middle of the street. They each got straight airs then went for spins off the pillow and got a couple cool shots. Unfortunately Seth took a spill at the end of the session, but not before he got a 360 tapper to drop.
Andy Stern sending it over the pillow to STOMP!
Seth Hill Discussing the Angle of the Jump with Tim Cole, an Aussie who has been living in Niseko for a while. Notice some of the fans gathered who were watching Seth and Andy's every move intently.
There is 1 commentAdd yours
Mark O
Those in the background looking on intently, the one with the beer and other with the log splitter jacket ready to cut dome some trees are friends, Niseko Grand Hirafu is such a good place, 😀 good shredding times, so good!


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If Americans love football, New Orleanians worship their Saints.
Yes, there are some fans locally and abroad who hopped on the bandwagon more recently. The Saints, as most football fans know, weren't always the team they are today. Many New Orleanians stayed loyal, but not without incorporating that local satirical spirit.
During those dark days, diehard fans would attend games with paper bags covering their faces and others, sometimes out of heartbreak, referred to the home team as the Aints.
After Hurricane Katrina, when the team stayed in New Orleans, the amazing 2006 season united the city and gave its people a whole lot of hope.
I remember signs throughout Louisiana that read "Bless You Boys" — a perfect depiction of the welcome return to normalcy that provided such a service to Louisiana's people.
The Saints may not have won the Super Bowl that year, but victory came soon after. I had the wonderful experience of being in New Orleans the night the Saints won Super Bowl XLIV in 2010. I will do my best to describe this indescribable joie de vivre.
First, let me start off by saying it was Mardi Gras season, so locals were ready to party. After 43 years of losing gracefully, the Saints really needed a win. The city needed a win.
It was an emotional moment. Some lifelong fans who survived the losing streaks, and Katrina, were finally seeing their team, their home, victorious. This emotion was handled in many ways.
There was a small Saints "Baby Boom" nine months later. And, people who left the house fled to the French Quarter. I was Uptown and getting a cab was almost impossible. Traffic going into downtown resembled the line of cars at the end of the movie Field of Dreams.
When I finally arrived in the French Quarter, there were Second Lines to When the Saints Go Marching In, people shouting Who Dat and many costumes playing on the highly anticipated win. I have a photo somewhere with a man dressed as a Flying Pig.
In short, it was Fat Tuesday on Super Bowl Sunday.
People are still serious about their Saints. I recently attended the New Orleans vs. Washington game, September 9. I saw Super Fans wearing Championship Ring hats and playing up the religious satire that comes with a team called the Saints in a Catholic town. There were Black and Gold Popes, Clergy and loyal disciples of Drew Breesus. And, in New Orleans tradition, brass instruments were played and jambalaya was had.
While the game did end in a loss for the Saints, New Orleans has not lost the faith. Cheers to a good season and can I get a Who Dat?


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Accent Ultra
Accent Ultra by Alma Lasers is a non-invasive method which aims at reducing excess body flab and delivering a more toned contouring. Using a combination of ultrasound and radio frequency energy, it is alleged to attack the fat deposits and diminish the appearance of cellulite, thus delivering a firmer and more tightened body. Based on its innovative dual mode application, the company has received clearance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for placing Accent Ultra in the United States market.
How Does Accent Ultra Work?
As mentioned, Accent Ultra combines ultrasound (find how ultrasounds work right here) with radio frequency (find how radio frequency works right here) in order to eradicate abnormal fat. Before the treatment, an anesthetic cream is usually put on the skin of the treated area so as to lessen any discomfort or sensitivity. The main procedure is based on the application of the aforementioned two sources, being performed in two basic stages; first, a sequence of hot ultrasound waves is applied, which aim at preheating the area that is undergoing the treatment, with the cold waves following in order to eliminate the fat cells. At the second phase, radio frequency is put to use in order to complement the fat cells shrinkage, drain the treated area, dispose off the unwanted waste materials and ultimately render skin tightening. During the whole procedure, and owing to the high level of technology integrated, Accent Ultra is designed to exclusively focus on the fat cell membranes, posing no threat to nearby skin tissues, nerves or blood vessels, adding to the safety level offered.
An Accent Ultra session usually lasts from 45 minutes to one and a half hour. Finally, no recuperation time is needed, and the patient can immediately return to his / her normal activities.
The alleged advantages of Accent Ultra include the following:
- Non-surgical and non-invasive method
- Dual stage procedure
- Painless treatment
- No need for general or local anesthetic
- Effective skin tightening and body contouring
- No downtime
- Minimal risk of side effects like infection, bruising, scarring etc.
The results that Accent Ultra can deliver encompass fat removal, face and body contouring, body reshaping and tightening of sagging skin, even improvement in the appearance of cellulite. In order to enjoy these results, patients should expect to undergo more than one treatments, with the number of the sessions required varying depending on the wanted outcome or the individual's special needs. Typically, a total of 4 to 8 visits are required for results to become distinguishable.
Areas To Be Treated
Accent Ultra can be performed in a wide variety of body and face areas:
- Stomach and waistline
- Arms
- Thighs
- Buttocks
- Love handles
- Face and neck
Accent Ultra Reviews
Unfortunately, and despite Accent Ultra's noteworthy technological traits, the available feedback is marginal, and thus very little in order to provide substantial evidence for its effectiveness. In fact, no real users' reviews can be located on the internet, making the method's assessment a task of extreme risk. Still, thanks to its innovative concept, Accent Ultra is very likely to deliver remarkable and safe results, however, this prediction is not yet confirmed.
Side Effects
In line with the above remarks, and in spite of the assumed safeness of the treatment, there is no real evidence supporting these allegations. Nevertheless, Accent Ultra is not expected to trigger serious adverse reactions except for the following:
- Heating sensation that can escalate to mild pain or discomfort during the operation or for the next few hours or days after the procedure
- Minor skin inflammation or reddening, also expected to vanish within some hours or few days
- Dry skin feeling
Accent Ultra Cost
Unluckily, locating an indicative price tag for Accent Ultra either on Realself.com or anywhere else on the internet was not possible, at least for the time being.
Before and After Photos
Our Advice
Obviously, assessing Accent Ultra is a considerably tricky task, mainly due to the lack of ample information to support its claimed advantages. Still, it can be viewed as a decent solution to melt excess fat deposits and achieve skin tightening and body contouring without forcing the patient to endure a painful surgical operation with considerable downtime; nevertheless, until solid evidence coming from real users' testimonials is available, Accent Ultra is not a guaranteed choice. With that into consideration, a potential user should be over 18 years old, in generally good healthy, free from skin diseases or infections, having undergone no previous treatments with dermal filler products (such as collagen) and, most importantly, not carrying electrical devices such as metal implants, pacemakers, artificial metal hip joints etc., to avoid hazardous interference with the radio frequency applied during the procedure.
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It may still be winter, but now is the perfect time to start thinking about summer! The Scholastic Awards have partnered with many organizations, colleges, and institutes to offer our students low-cost or free admission to some of the best summer art and writing programs across the country for teens.
Applying for a summer program scholarship is easy! Students should log into their Scholastic Awards accounts and click on What is the SAS Scholarships program? to find out if they meet the criteria. Then, they will need to complete their application and submit it to the Scholastic Awards by March 10. Below is a list of the great art and writing programs available to our students. To learn more about these programs and the Scholastic Awards Summer Scholarships Program, please visit artandwriting.org/SAS-Scholarships.
Belin-Blank Center Summer Program: NSI Creative Writing in Iowa City, IA
Iowa Young Writers' Studio in Iowa City, Iowa
Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop in Gambier, OH
Poets House Teen Workshop in New York, NY
The Jonathan Reynolds Young Writers Workshop in Granville, OH
Stony Brook YAWP Writing in Southhampton, NY
Writopia Lab NYC & Sleepaway Camp in New York, NY
Red Oak Writing @ Mount Mary University in Milwaukee, WI
The Writers Circle in Drew, NJ
Juniper Institute for Young Writers in Amherst, MA
Ashcan Studio Summer in New York, NY
Belin-Blank Center Summer Program: NSI Visual Arts Studio in Iowa City, IA
Center for Architecture Foundation: Summer@theCenter in New York, NY
CIA Summer Precollege in Cleveland, OH
Cranbrook Summer Art Institute in Bloomfield Hills, MI
Herron Honors Art & Design Summer Program in Indianapolis, IN
ICP Teen Academy in New York, NY
Massachusetts College of Art & Design Summer Intensives in Boston, MA
Maryland College Institute of Art Summer Precollege in Baltimore, MD
NY Studio School in New York, NY
Oogie Art in New York, NY
Otis College Art & Design Summer of Art in Los Angeles, CA
Parsons the New School for Design in New York, NY
Pratt Institute Summer Precollege in Brooklyn, NY
Putney Summer Programs in Putney, Vermont
Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design High School Programs in Denver, CO
School of Visual Arts Summer Precollege Program in New York, NY
SCAD Summer in Savannah, GA
School of The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, MA
The Drawing Center in New York, NY
U Hartford Art Precollege in West Hartford, CT
VMFA Summer Program in Richmond, VA
Be sure to visit artandwriting.org/SAS-Scholarships for more information about these programs and how to apply for a scholarship!


text: Wordless Wednesday: ROCK. stars. July 6, 2011December 6, 2011 ~ Tashmica Torok A little sports and rec. sponsored trust exercise. The cute face of my Little Fish. Yes. He is this cool. All the way to the top, like a pro! Vito's turn. He pretty much made it to this point and fell off every time. :) Please share!ShareShare on TumblrTweetEmailPrintLike this:Like Loading... Related


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If you know anything about the Renaissance or watch Medici: Masters of Florence on Netflix, then you know that Florentine patron Cosimo de' Medici almost single-handedly bankrolled the most creative and spiritual time of the last millennium. The Editors of Encyclopædia Britannica report on the below information about Medici's life, how he died in 1464 after 30 years of unofficial rule, but is it possible that he's back in the form of President-elect Donald J. Trump? (Just look at those matching red hats!) A few other reasons why this may not just be a conspiracy:
Both Cosimo and The Donald were sons of successful businessmen. Cosimo's father Giovanni di Bicci de' Medici was born into relative poverty but made a fortune as a banker. Trump's father Fred was a Bronx-born carpenter by trade who eventually built a profitable construction company. Like Cosimo, he took over his father's business as a young man.
Cosimo was a trained artist and supported numerous Florentine artists, including Donatello, who sculpted the world-famous "David" on Cosimo's commission. He also paid for Brunelleschi to finish one of the world's largest cathedrals Il Duomo de Firenze. Trump also renovated New York's Plaza Hotel and the landmarked Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, showing as much interest in their aesthetics as their real estate value.
Photo by Cea.
Though his father is considered the progenitor of the Medici line, Cosimo is widely credited as the man who cemented the family's power, which it held without interruption for over 100 years. Trump's family is also on the verge of dynasty status, thanks to his politically-ambitious daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Cosimo founded the Platonic Academy in Florence in 1445. Trump's namesake university has had a smaller effect than Cosimo's on the intellectual life of his day but is just as famous.
Cosimo brought peace to northern Italy in part by discouraging foreign influences from Rome, Germany and Spain to meddle in Florence's affairs. Trump, as we all know, is vehemently America First. Only time will tell if Trump's term as President of the United States has as lasting an impression on our culture, politics and penchant for famous families.
Continue reading...


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Fresh Tomato Tart
This tart is best with fresh-from-the-garden tomatoes. It's so pretty to the eye and tastes fabulous! —Julie Ferron
Total TimePrep: 25 min. Bake: 35 min.
Makes6-8 servings
- 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold butter
- 2 tablespoons shortening
- 2 to 4 tablespoons ice water
- 3/4 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup prepared pesto
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- In a large bowl, combine flour, Parmesan cheese, pepper and salt; cut in the butter and shortening until crumbly. Gradually add water, tossing with a fork until dough forms a ball. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until easy to handle.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out pastry to fit a 9-in. fluted tart pan with removable bottom. Transfer pastry to tart pan; trim pastry even with edge. Line unpricked pastry shell with a double thickness of heavy-duty foil. Bake at 375° for 20 minutes. Remove foil; bake 15 minutes longer. Cool on a wire rack.
- Remove sides of tart pan. Place crust on a serving plate. Arrange mozzarella over crust with slices overlapping. Spread with pesto. Arrange tomato slices in an overlapping pattern on top. Season with salt and pepper.


text: The London Map Fair 2014 June 9, 2014 · by themaphouse · in Exhibitions & Events, Fairs, Press. · Ready to walk over to the fair! Our box of brochures and business cards. Arriving at the fair, with eager map aficionados awating entry. Looking towards the Map House's own stand right by the entrance. Visitors browsing Our new postcards showing the route to The Map House The map room at the R.G.S. Morning light falling on the 1954 model of Everest, an excellent cornerpiece for the London Map Fair! The walls of the map room were once lined with map presses. Map-related teasures Looking down on the many exhibitors Share this:Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to email this to a friend (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Related


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As a high school student, I knew I wanted to do something with computers, but I never had an outlet for my interest. I was fortunate enough to learn that my school was involved in the FIRST Robotics Competition, a program which encourages mentors to work side-by-side with students and teach them important skills. Being in the program not only added to my interest in computers, but it also enabled me to go beyond technology and develop crucial soft skills. Ever since, I've had the "FIRST Fever" and now mentor a rookie Chicago team based out of Horizon Science Academy at McKinley Park. Here's a brief overview of our team, Hawks On The Horizon, and how our year has gone thus far, written collaboratively by me and a student on the team, Sergio Ortega:
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a youth organization that hosts competitions to inspire students to become science and technology leaders. Teams build a robot in a matter of six weeks using engineering skills they develop during the season. This year's challenge in FRC (FIRST Robotics Competition), the high school-aged FIRST program, was to pass a 2-foot wide ball to two other robots (alliance partners) and eventually shoot it in a goal 7-feet high. However, through our experience, we learned FIRST is much more than the robot we build.
We started our team a week late into the 6-week build season with only four members. Being a rookie team meant learning everything about the program from scratch, and as our team members were younger than average, it meant learning even more. The team struggled with a lack of mentors, parts, tools and money. Even worse, students began to lose interest or struggled to make meetings, resulting in our team dwindling down to three 7th graders. With less than 5 weeks to go until the Midwest Regional competition, the team completed building the basic chassis of the robot and began to work on ensuring that the robot would pass inspection – so that we'd at least get the opportunity to see the field.
It wasn't too long before we had to compete at the University of Illinois - Chicago in April. Because this was our first competition, we were going to try our best, have fun and learn as much as we could. It was still really tense, as we started off the Thursday practice day with no working robot and had to get it running in 6 hours. With lots of help from other teams, and determination, we were able to get the robot running and ready to go for our matches on Friday and Saturday by Thursday evening.
We developed a strategy to play heavy defense and, even with some losses, were successful at proving our strategy effective. As a rookie team, we ranked 18th out of 53 teams and were the only rookie team selected to play in the elimination final rounds. There were a lot of people from other teams cheering for us, which gave us motivation. Armed with a well-thought-out strategy and effective communication with our alliance partners, we were able to pass through the quarter finals, semi-finals and ultimately win the Midwest Regional! We did exactly what we set out to do: tried our hardest, met new people and had a ton of fun. It was truly a great experience!
Our experience taught us that FIRST is where you celebrate Gracious Professionalism, give high-fives and pat each other on the back – no matter what happens or who they are. You congratulate each other, even those who may be your opponents for a particular match. FIRST is where you meet new friends and work with things you never knew about, like sponsorship letters, business plans and outreach campaigns. FIRST is where you use your mind to solve challenges around you. Our first competition was so exciting that we're trying to further grow our team. We're preparing to engage potential sponsors, spread FIRST to our community and other schools, and build upon the skills we've learned. With our regional win, we'll be heading to St. Louis April 23-27 to compete in the 2014 FIRST Championship against 300+ other FRC teams. Wish us luck!
Visit us at https://www.facebook.com/FRC5125 for updates on our team.


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This course covers the development and effect on business and government of computer hacking, with special emphasis on methods, tools, and hacker culture. Students will learn to describe the specific tools of hackers and system administrators as well as the literature and subcultures of hackers and groups dedicated to malicious computer hacking. They will also be able to distinguish appropriate countermeasures to be applied to shore up specific vulnerabilities and to fend off specific types of intrusion attempts.
Define Cybercrime
Define hacking and identify behaviors
Discuss exploitation methods and tools
Identify exploiting systems
Identify and prioritize assets for protection
Identify social and economic impacts of cybercrime
Identify different behaviors for computer abusers, attackers, and criminals
Discuss core components of cyber laws and their issues
Henley-Putnam's commitment to service begins with your first call with an advisor and continues through graduation. Our classes are small, so you are never just a number. We get to know you, your goals and your needs. You will be supported by a team of professionals who will help you track your degree progression, advise you on course selection, and inform you of relevant services such as tutoring and mentoring. Your faculty members will be available to you, as will the deans and administrators.
To request an application or get information about any of our programs, fill out the form below. An advisor will be in touch to answer your questions. Or contact us directly at 855-246-7440 or firstname.lastname@example.com


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This year I've set myself 365 goals – to push myself harder everyday than I did the day before, to better myself everyday, to be stronger everyday.
This year I've set myself 365 goals – to push myself harder everyday than I did the day before, to better myself everyday, to be stronger everyday.
What do you do when you're having a tough day? I mean a tough day in general, life, not just training. Do you train harder or easier? Heavier or lighter? More, less, or not at all?
Life often finds a way to collide with our plans and achievements or so it certainly seems. Just the other week, someone thought it would be a good idea to to plow their car into ours when we were stopped at a red light, literally a collision. I still have all my bones and limbs as far as I know, but due to the pain and adjustments mainly in my back, neck, and legs, my doctor advised me to stay away from heavy training and maybe just stick with cardio if I really felt the need to train. He explained that my body is now working out by itself to fix the damage from the accident. Doctor's orders…. Doctor knows best…. Who am I to argue?
The trouble is I always find it difficult to stay away from training, especially this time as I was just getting back to my full fitness and strength peaks after returning from a three week holiday (during which I did train, but not as often or intense). But truly, this is what I train for. I train for times when I can't always do what I would like to do i.e. train. The challenge set forth then was to see if I could actually stay away from it.
The first week, I stuck to interval days of cardio (specifically biking which is what the doctor recommended) and days off. The second week became a little more difficult, so, rebelliously, I started a little light training on some of the days. By light training, I mean using light weight but more repetitions and calisthenics, so it was more like cardio. With this method, I still wouldn't push for the last few reps which usually count the most, so as not to aggravate the injuries, another challenge. The best part of all this though was that I managed to work on my form. I got back to the light weight basics and just really working on form. This week, I feel ready to heighten the load again and try get closer to my usual training method and previous fitness levels, but now with better form.
Every so often, I try do a form check by spending a few days training lighter, but its been a while. Due to this car accident, I was forced into one. Maybe a blessing in disguise? Who knows….
My sister's in-laws have a tradition that at thanksgiving dinner everyone says what they are thankful for over the past year. The first person starts with their thankfulness and then passes the buck to whomever they want, and so it goes until everyone has had a turn. It's sort of like a mass confession of thankfulness. Naturally, my sister has adopted this tradition for the thanksgiving dinner she hosts (especially when any if her in-laws are present) which I have been blessed to be a part of over the last few years.
What always amazes me is the fact that absolutely everyone has several or many things to be thankful for (and not just the being alive point which in itself is thanks worthy), no matter how difficult of a year experienced. Personally, I've had a difficult year, but at the same time have lots to be thankful for. Thanksgiving, for me, isn't only a time to reflect on all the things I'm thankful for over the year, rather a reminder to remain grateful and thankful on a daily basis for the many good things and experiences as well. Being thankful, I find, is a way to appreciate what I do have, achievements and more. It's almost like a grounding and base to work from. It's not a finish line. It's the stat line. Happy Thanksgiving all, may we continue to give thanks for what we have, and have even more to continue to be thankful for!!!
Wednesday's training routine is my most challenging and, therefore, favorite routine. I generally do back and legs which includes big lifts such as deadlifts, leg press etc… I chose to skip training and spend time with some of my family instead.
As a fitness enthusiast (almost fanatic), it's hard to skip any day of training especially my favorite. But I'm sharing this with you not because I feel bad or feel the need to talk about it, but really to express the opposite.
Fitness is one piece of the many pieces in life. A big piece for me, but still one of many pieces. It's important to find a balance. Life is time to be fulfilled and enjoyed. For myself, training is enjoyment and time that I get to work on myself, but there are other parts of life that are also to be enjoyed and to which the training should be translated. Balance is different for everyone as we are all different and lead different lives, but it is quite a substantive key.
For many, physique is the end all and be all of fitness. The belief that fitness means a bigger chest, better frame, and good looking butt with the many other attributes being only side benefits seems to be the dominant theme among the masses. What if I was to argue that fitness and physique are really just dependents, but focusing on the "side benefits" (and I don't mean the many health benefit) may actually be more benefiacial?
For me, physique is more of a fitness guide, but not my main focus or motivation. I use my physique to plan my fitness routine, exercises, and workout, which muscles require more or less work, but it's not what drives me to be active or workout. My drive is inner stregnth, personality, capabilities, and determination, fitness of mind as well as body. Focusing on such brings me more enjoyment, accomplishment, and better than ever physical results.
With this I ask you, which one is more important – your fitness or your physique?


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Tanzania Revisited
posted by Ian Lewis in Club Meetings
Last week Stan McCartin's soft Scottish lilt - this week the twang of the Black Country courtesy of Mike Wilkes FRPS, who took us on safari to Tanzania showing us its scenery, wildlife and people. Freshly returned, too, 'cos he told us that the previous Saturday he was taking pics out there!
During the evening we were treated to stunning images of the "usual suspects" - cheetahs, lions, elephants, hippos, giraffes, zebras and antelopes (various) - several of the last two being in the form of dinner for the first two! In addition, of course, a plethora of colourful bird life from the very large - eagles, storks and cranes - to the very small such as the tiny bee eater, although some of our feathered friends seemed to be engaged in less than salubrious activities - the less said the better!
Interlaced with the pictures were Mike's comments on them - he tells a good story spiced with his wry humour! Along with this he also gave some technical detail on lenses used and exposures, making this an informative as well as a thoroughly entertaining evening.


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The year was 1982. We'd been married a little over two and a half years and were living in the Midway section of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul. The previous November the we had returned from a year in Mexico and now we were struggling to get on our feet. We were in the downstairs of a duplex with garage sale furniture, a few personal possessions and a shared passion for used book stores.
My favorite at the time was a used book store in Dinkytown, near the University of MN. It also happened to be the closest to where we lived, a little west of us on University Avenue.
There were other book stores around, and we tried them all. The store where I found this Reader's Digest Complete Do-it-yourself Manual was somewhere around Fourth Street in Minneapolis. Four dollars.
What a great companion this book has been over the years. Chapters on interior repairs, exterior repairs, repairing and restoring furniture, plumbing, electricity and more fill this nearly 600 page manual. With illustrations throughout, there is ample advice for even the most novice handyman to take a crack at fixing whatever it is that's gone wrong around the house.
Post-it notes and little scraps of paper serve as bookmarks to remind me sections I have returned to many times over the years, such as how to attach things to solid surfaces. A corner of an envelope is tucked into a page showing how to use ladders and boards to make a safe working platform for painting a stairwell.
This past weekend I had to pull out my manual to review how to repair a leaking faucet. Again.
But times have changed. I don't know if books like this sell much any more because nowadays we have YouTube. Last year, when one of our toilets went on the fritz, three YouTube how-to videos gave me enough confidence to tackle the venture myself. I do not consider myself an A-team handyman, though I have had my share of experience in the painting trades.
It is probable that this Reader's Digest repair manual will one day became a vapor memory, replaced by YouTube and eHow training videos and instructions. But if you need a handy companion around the house, this book is still amazingly relevant. No, it will not show you how to set up your routers, servers or network your computers. But if you need a hand wiring a ceiling fan or building a chair, fixing cabinets or pouring a concrete floor, it's all here. Most plumbing jobs still take three trips to the hardware store, though. And while you're there, be sure to pick that guy's brain, too.


text: Santiago, Chile. The Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Chile stated that he does not share the form in which students protest, but he shares their frustration. Former Rector of the University of Chile, Luis Riveros Cornejo said in the context of student protests in the country, that "the worst thing that can happen to a country is that young people do not have dreams and ambitions."


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Women Have Sexuality, Too
One of the hardest things in doing research is the reality vs. perceptions that a lot of people have about research into their family tree.
For some reason, we like to think that all women in our family are prim and proper and sweet little virgins when they met the men in our family.
Let me assure you. Not true. Not true today, and not true back in the day of our ancestors.
My mother was never married to my biological father. I have never laid eyes on him, although I know believe that I know who he is. (It is either him or one of his brothers, but his brothers were never in the part of the world I was born in.)
Do I believe that my mother was a sweet, virtuous angel before I got here? Of course not.
She had desires. She had attractions, crushes, encounters. All of the things that normal people have. Sex drive is not something that is limited to men. Women have urges, too. The only difference is not what they do with those urges, but instead, how they are treated for having those urges and acting upon them.
My mother, when it was obvious that I was looking for my biological family threw me on a trail of bad information and lies. To protect me? Perhaps. To protect herself from rejection and judgement? Of course.
I belong to a lot of different groups on social media. Repeatedly, adoptees who are looking for their biological families will have so much more luck with their paternal family than they have with their maternal family. It is so contradictory of everything that we see in movies, etcetera. But it is the truth. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, that goes without saying.
In one of the groups that I belong to on Facebook, the ratio of paternal family being open to meeting and knowing is about 3 to 1 compared to maternal family.
I know that when I had my son and placed him for adoption, it was deeply instilled in me to make sure that I did not interfere with the adoptive family or the child that I placed for adoption, after all, they were doing me a huge favor.
Wasn't I doing them a huge favor as well? Isn't having a baby and giving it to the adoptive parent to raise a big favor as well? I would think so, but the adoption agencies of the time did not really address that angle. Another reflection of women being punished/held accountable for her sexuality.
That leads me to DNA testing and reunions being made outside the parameters of the adoption agency.
Adoption agencies made the promise to people that they need not worry about being contacted. That their little secret was safe within the walls of the agency and the sealed birth certificate. With the event of at home DNA testing (Ancestry, Heritage, 23AndMe, Family Tree DNA, etcetera) becoming so affordable, more and more people are turning away from the agencies and the archaic laws of sealed adoption records. They are instead choosing to take tests that cost less than 100.00 per test. In less than 2 months typically, an adoptee can find their birth family on both sides. With social media being free and open, with a few clicks of the mouse, an adoptee can look at the faces of biological family.
The problem about this is for any member of the adoption triangle that does not want to be found. For the birth mother who wanted the secret of her pregnancy and childbirth hidden, her privacy is no longer assured or guaranteed. For the birth father who may not even know that a child was conceived, his life can be thrown into hell if he has never told his family of the existence of a child.
An adoptee that has never been told that they were adopted, or does not want to know their biological family and finds themself facing issues they were not prepared to handle can be a disaster.
Am I against DNA testing? No, not at all. I support open records. I support the right of people to know where they came from as an adoptee. I support the right of birthparents to know their biological child is well and cared for. Open adoption removes all of the mystery from adoption and allows for open communication. In medical emergencies, if the biological family is available for contact, information can be exchanged that is literally lifesaving.
As long as we continue to have a one sided stigma of women having sexuality, of women expressing their sexuality and of women having sexual relations, we will continue to have shame for an event that needs to have no shame.
As I continue to know my paternal family, I am greatly saddened by all of the years that I was denied these relationships. I have aunties and cousins and grand cousins. I had grandparents while I was alive on my father's side. From all that I have heard, they would have been very loving and kind. I have pictures of people who I look like. Who I share the same body type. Who I have common interests. I would still be searching for these wonderful family members if I had not taken a DNA test.
About Dixie
I write a lot about genetic genealogy, family trees, DNA, and home life as well as the occasional product review. Comments? Email me at email@example.com
April 2020


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Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage, Pine Nuts and Herbs
- Details
- Written by Cynthia Presser
This is a perfect recipe for easy entertaining! It can be assembled the day before and kept in the fridge until it goes in the oven. Everyone will love it!
Makes 24 units
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage, casing removed
- 3 tablespoons pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons Panko bread crumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons scallions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 24 large white mushrooms (about 1 ½ pound) stemmed
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
In a medium mixing bowl stir the sausage, pine nuts, Panko bread crumbs, garlic, parmesan, egg, milk, scallions, parsley, basil, salt and pepper until everything is well incorporated.
Drizzle a large baking sheet with about 1 tablespoon olive oil, to coat. Spoon the filling into the mushroom cavities and arrange on the baking sheet, cavity side up. Drizzle remaining oil over the filling of each mushroom. Bake until the sausage in cooked through and the mushrooms are tender about 30-35 minutes. Serve it immediately.
Nutrition Facts:
24 Servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 103.9
Total Fat 9.3 g
Cholesterol 24.5 mg
Sodium 149.6 mg
Potassium 131.2 mg
Total Carbohydrate 1.3 g
Dietary Fiber 0.3 g
Sugars 0.5 g
Protein 4.0 g


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LOS ANGELES — "Resolution of the dispute that is at the core of this case should not have required a trial."
With those words, Judge A. Howard Matz of the United States District Court for the Central District of California in Los Angeles declared that Dick Clark Productions and its owner, Red Zone Capital, were within their rights in making a deal to keep the Golden Globes show on NBC through 2018, despite objections from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association.
The press association had sued Dick Clark and Red Zone, claiming that they effectively hijacked the Globes, which are awarded by the association, when they by-passed the press group in negotiating a long-term agreement to keep the show on NBC, where it currently resides.
The Dick Clark company has been joined at the hip with the association for years, as the producer of the show. In fact, the company produced the last two shows, even while the legal dispute proceeded. But the association said the company went too far in acting unilaterally to extend the NBC contract, and the judge disagreed.
On Monday, following a trial earlier this year, Judge Matz issued an 89-page decision that said the Dick Clark company, under its agreement with the association, had the right to license the show to NBC as long as NBC commits to broadcast it, though not to others. Though he said the trial should not have been needed once all the facts were on the table, Judge Matz complimented the lawyers, noted that "colorful" characters were involved, and added, "Presiding over the trial was a pleasure for this court."


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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Repeat (01/24/13)
TITLE: Billy Punched Me
By Ken Ebright
Billy smirked then in a sing along voice said. "Ha, ha, ha Johnny is stupid!
Johnny is stupid! You have to do the assignment over again. You're going to fail."
Johnny vaulted out of his chair and smacked Billy in the arm.
Mr. Redel clenched his teeth. "Johnny, go stand in the corner for five minutes. Both of you are going to stay after school and have a nice little chat with me."
After school, the boys walked up to the desk. Mr. Redel raised his left eyebrow.
"Okay boys, we can't have you fighting in class. Johnny, under no circumstances are you ever to hit anybody. I want you to say you're sorry to Billy right now."
With his eyes filling with tears, Johnny dipped his head down. "I'm sorry."
Mr. Redel peered over his glasses. "Billy, Johnny has learning disabilities. That doesn't make him stupid. As a class, we need to do everything we can to help Johnny. Name calling only makes things worse. Billy, I want you to tell Johnny that you're sorry."
Billy looked up as he trembled. "I am sorry, Johnny."
Mr. Redel looked into Johnny's eyes. "Johnny, I want you to write, 'I will not hit other students,' one hundred times. Billy, I want you to write, "I will not call people stupid' one hundred times. Do you both understand your assignments?"
The two boys scowled at the teacher. "Yes, Mr. Redel."
"Now, both of you, shake hands."
A week later, Billy caught up with Johnny at the coat rack. "Johnny, do you understand the assignment on fractions?"
Johnny shoved his books into his bag. "I think so, but I'm, not sure."
Billy reached out to help carry his bag. "Do you want to come over to my house and I'll help you?"
Johnny rolled his eyes. "I don't know; you called me stupid last week."
Billy frowned. "I was wrong; Mr. Redel is right--you're not stupid. I'm sorry; I really want to help."
Johnny threw his coat on. "Okay, I'll come over. Do you forgive me for hitting you?"
"Yep, no hard feelings." Johnny held up his fist.
Billy responded with a fist bump. "No hard feelings."
A month later, as Johnny was walking out of the classroom, Mr. Redel looked up. "Hey Johnny, you've been doing better in math."
"Yeah, Billy has been helping me."
Mr. Redel smiled. "Wow, something good came from Billy's remark."
"Yep, we're best friends now. We've learned it's better to be nice than to be mean." Johnny gave the teacher a high-five as he left the classroom.
The opinions expressed by authors may not necessarily reflect the opinion of FaithWriters.com.
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Eighteen-year-old Nick D'Aloisio won an Apple Design Award for Yahoo News Digest, but his biggest prize was probably selling his company Summly to Yahoo for $33 million last year.
D'Aloisio also became Yahoo's youngest employee at 17, when he joined Yahoo's London office as part of the acquisition, as we previously wrote in Press:Here. Summly's news reading app was then integrated into Yahoo News Digest, which was given the award at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco.
The award is given to exceptional apps that "raise the bar," according to Apple.
U.S. & World
News from around the country and around the globe
D'Aloisio now leads Yahoo News Digest. Last year, Yahoo won the award for its Yahoo Weather app. D'Aloisio tweeted excitedly about the news and thanked his team for their work.
While the award is nice, it's likely not going to compare to the the $33 million D'Aloisio received for his startup.


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Rafael Nunez
Research Scientist
Rafael C. Nunez is a Research Scientist on the epidemiology team at IDM. He brings more than 10 years of experience in data fusion, signal processing, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and high-performance computing. He received his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Miami, his M.Sc. in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Delaware, and his B.Sc. in Electrical Engineering at Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana (Medellin, Colombia). His current research is focused on the development and application of machine learning algorithms for disease transmission models, with emphasis on prediction and model calibration.


text: The boys aren't traveling back to the 80's and 90's on this one. With its recent release on Netflix, "The Resurrection of Jake the Snake" has become quite the talking point of the wrestling world and the Jury gives you their thoughts on it! Join us for a journey with past guest of the Midnight Jury; Jake the Snake, on his road to recovery!


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What debuts are in comic shops tomorrow? First off, there's the funny book adaptation of Bravest Warriors, the new cartoon from Pendleton Ward of Adventure Time. ("Join Chris, Wallow, Beth, and Danny, four 16-year-old heroes-for-hire, as they warp from galaxy to galaxy, saving alien races with the power of their emotions.")
Other first issues on the stands are Wolverine MAX, A-Babies vs. X-Babies, the horror book Let's Play God (preview here), and a re-envisioning of the DC character Madame X for National Comics. Sergio Aragones of Groo fame also writes a comic about Maggie Simpson, curiously enough.
Finally, Brandon Graham of the completely boss King City continues his on-again, off-again title Multiple Warheads with the miniseries Alphabet To Infinity. Here's the synopsis of that:
Sexica and her Werewolf boyfriend Nikoli travel across a sci-fi, fantasy Russia smoking singing cigarettes. Meanwhile the organ hunter, Nura is sent out with a severed head and instructions to find its body.
Returning books on the stands include Dark Horse Presents, Adventure Time, Batman Incorporated, Flash, Justice League Dark (preview here ), Talon, The Unwritten, and Star Trek/Doctor Who.
For graphic novels, there's a bunch of paperbacks worth a gander, namely the fourth volume of Showcase: The Flash, the first volume of Wolverine and the X-Men, and the John Ostrander-penned Star Wars: Agent Of The Empire - Iron Eclipse.
Hardcovers out include a full slipcase edition of Warren Ellis and Paul Duffield's webcomic Freakangels and Came The Dawn, a Wally Wood retrospective. And as usual, here's the list of everything being released to comic stores tomorrow, and you can find your nearest comic retailer here. Happy reading, gang!


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From a June 13 story by United Press International:
Air, sea and ground patrols searched the San Francisco bay area today for three escape artists bidding for the first successful break from Alcatraz prison.
The missing convicts were John William Anglin, 32, and his brother, Clarence, 31, both of Montgomery, Ala., and Frank Lee Morris, 35, New Orleans.
All three are convicted bank robbers who were sent to the island prison for escape attempts from other penal institutions. The yellowed "rock" in San Francisco Bay, considered on the world's most nearly escape-proof institutions, became a federal prison in 1934 for the nation's toughest convicts.
The Anglin brothers and Morris were last seen at 9:30 Monday night and were missed at 7:15 a.m. Tuesday when prisoners were lined up outside their cells to go to breakfast. The brothers had adjoining cells, and Morris was four cells away.
The men left dummies in their beds with plaster-like faces which had been painted and topped with hair. The "bodies," under blankets, were of blankets and pillows.
Warden Olin D. Blackwell, called back to the prison from a vacation fishing trip, said the men removed the metal mesh from the eight by 12-inch ventilation openings and used sharpened kitchen spoons to enlarge the holes in the concrete wall.
They squeezed through the holes into a vertical utility pipe tunnel, climbed 30 feet to the top of the building, pried apart bars to escape through an exhaust duct, crossed the top of the building and climbed 40 feet down a kitchen vent pipe to the ground. They also had to climba a 12-foot wire fence to reach the bay.
Photo from history.com.
* Newsreel: @
* From www.alcatrazhistory.com: @
* FBI summary (2007): @
* Documents from www.fbi.gov: @
* Alcatraz entry from Federal Bureau of Prisons: @


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About Us
Welcome to Nanette's Accommodation Bed & Breakfast and Holiday Villa. The Villa is a four and a half Star property situated just minutes walk from the beach and resorts.
It features 4 bedrooms (see room configurations below) which are ensuited and air-conditioned.
- Fully equipped gourmet kitchen with ice maker fridge.
- Open plan lounge, dining room with high Mahogany ceilings for light and coolness.
- Tastefully and luxuriously furnished.
- Large deep sparkling pool set in lush tropical gardens available for your enjoyment.
- Huge outdoor entertaining area with BBQ is a fabulous place to unwind with a cold drink.
- Sky TV, DVD and Radio are included.
- Full maid service daily.
Sleeps up to 11 people: 2 bedrooms have 1 queen bed each, the thrid bedroom has 1 queen bed and 2 single beds and the fourth bedroom has 1 queen bed and 1 single bed


text:
Fox Cities Campus
Contact Us
Student Affairs Solution Center
(920) 832-2620
(920) 832-2672
Tutoring Services
(920) 832-2867
Christina Marty
Course Schedules
Upcoming course schedules are tentative prior to semester start and are subject to change. They are posted early to serve as a guide in your academic planning.
Registration Process
TitanWeb is our student registration system. Students can update their address, view tuition balances, register for classes and more through TitanWeb.
Scheduled maintenance for TitanWeb is Monday through Friday from 2 a.m. – 7 a.m., and cannot be accessed during this time.
UW College Courses Online
Online classes are offered as part of a collaborative program through UW Oshkosh, UW Milwaukee, UW Stevens Point, and UW Whitewater called: UW College Courses Online (UWCCO).
To apply, access our online courses page and follow the instructions there.
Non-Credit Courses
The Office of Continuing Education is dedicated to providing opportunities of lifelong learning to local residents of all ages and area businesses through a variety of non-credit courses, seminars and workshops. Courses include educational travel, professional development and health training. Courses are available both in-person and online.


text:
Enhanced Phone Features
Caller Number Delivery
Identifies the number of the calling party. Customer must purchase caller ID box.
Caller Name Delivery
Add on service for customers already subscribing to caller number delivery.
Automatic Callback
Continues to redial busy number for up to 30 minutes.
Automatic Recall
Recall of the last answered or unanswered incoming call. Number is then redialed if that choice is selected.
Caller ID Blocking
Prevents display of your name or number on someone's caller ID box. Customer manually activates.
Caller ID Suppression
Permanently prevents display of your name or number.
Customer Originated Trace
Customer manually initiates. Telephone Co. switch records origin of call.
Distinctive Ringing/Call Waiting
Allows customer to preprogram up to 32 numbers that will be identified by a distinctive ring (tone for call waiting).
Selective Call Acceptance
Stores up to 32 numbers from which you can accept calls. Those not listed will receive a message that you are not receiving calls.
Selective Call
Specific calls can be forwarded to another phone number.
Selective Call Rejection
Allows up to 32 numbers to be blocked. Those callers will receive a message that you are not accepting calls.
Warm Line
Automatically dials a predesignated number after phone is off the hook for 30 seconds.
Enhanced Phone Features


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In the interests of being a cliché triathlete blogger, here are some superlative moments from my 2014 season.
Best moment:
Finally riding in the lead pack for the entire race in Monterrey and the huge sense of relief, happiness, and accomplishment I felt after getting off the bike there. Doing the same in Alanya and Cartagena was huge for me. I'm excited I have the opportunity to continue working to make biking one of my strengths.
Most absurd travel moment:
The Gazipasa Airport near Alanya, Turkey doesn't have too many flights leaving on a daily basis. It's a two gate airport, and once you get through security there is no water, no outlets, no wifi, no sign keeping you updated on your flight info, really no modern conveniences beyond the restrooms. We had a flight at 10:55 pm which kept getting delayed. We saw the crew walk off the plane and people start shouting in Turkish at 2:30 am suggesting that the flight was cancelled. At this point, it was clear that the lack of flights and communication were going to complicate things. While Turkish Airlines were kind enough to give us cookies and juice around midnight, it wasn't quite enough to make up for the sketchy communication and the options they presented to us, which were: hang out and maybe get on the 10:55 pm flight out of Gazipasa the following day or get on a shuttle to the airport in Antalya (two+ hours away) and maybe get a flight to Istanbul. We had a scheduled 1 pm flight out of Istanbul the following day (I guess the same day at that point) and none of our domestic flights were linked on our flight itineraries and would probably have to be completely rebooked, so this could potentially set off a chain reaction of missed flights. Sure it could have been rectified, but there had to be a better option than just hanging out.
Along with ITU announcer Barrie Shepley and an ITU official we collectively decided to… take cabs to Antalya! This left us in control of our destiny, instead of waiting an indefinite amount of time for the shuttle and then battling others for seats on flights. We fit eight people, five bikes, a massage table, and an assortment of other luggage in three cabs and embarked on a 3:45 am cab ride along the Turkish coastline. After some negotiation, some confusion, and every bike being tagged under Chelsea Burns' name (opposite of Monterrey?!) we had boarding passes to Istanbul that would allow us to keep all of our connections AND received Turkish Airlines lounge access in Antalya for our troubles! I didn't see anyone else from the airport in Gazipasa on our flight and it wasn't for a lack of seats. You make your own destiny.
Watching a guy get tackled and arrested in the Istanbul Airport was also pretty crazy. Those Turkish airports…
Most Absurd Non-Travel Moment
When the TBD prize purse in Monterrey was determined to be $0 at the race briefing. And they tried to get out of telling us.
Coolest session:
First swim in Alanya. The Mediterranean was a gorgeous blue, unbelievably calm, and the perfect temperature for a casual swim. The scenery wasn't too bad either.
Most Ridiculous Session
Cross biking, Tom's Thumb Trail, Scottsdale, Arizona. No pics because I desperately want to forget, though I suspect if I develop dementia someday and forget everything else in my life I will still remember this experience.
Best hotel:
The Fairfield Marriott in Kelowna, B.C. Why? Because of the waterslide.
Race bests:
Swim – Monterrey. I swam smart; saved energy and also stayed out of trouble.
Bike – Alanya. I doubt anyone who saw me on a bike in March, or even June, and maybe July would have guessed that I could do a World Cup race and not get dropped ever, let alone this past season.
Run – FISU. Picking people off in heat that rivals that of the deepest layer of hell may never be so fun again.
Overall– Magog! I navigated the hilly and technical bike course well enough to earn my first podium!
Coolest race experience – FISU! Such a fun atmosphere, a total adventure, and being part of the team title there is something I won't forget and was proud to be part of. Hands down the coolest way I could have started my elite draft legal career
Most overdramatic picture:
In the finish chute at the Monterrey Pan American Cup.
Favorite scenic picture:
Too many to choose just one!
Bring on the bigger and better things, 2015!


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New fiction and picture books
The Tower Hamlets Schools Library Services publishes annual lists of the best new fiction. These These are :
- Takeoff! : Fiction and picture books for years 3 and 4
- Must Read : Fiction for years 5 and 6
- THe List : Fiction for secondary schools
- The Tower Hamlets Book Award : A shortlist of the best books drawn from the Must Read and Teen lists.
Our booklists are just one of the great services made possible by subscriptions to the Tower Hamlets Schools Library Service. Posters and bookmarks are sent to subscribing schools.
CLPE Core Books Online
The Core Booklist has been published by CLPE since 1997. It is a selection of carefully chosen texts for teachers to use when they are developing collections for their classrooms and schools as part of their reading and literacy programmes.
Link to the CLPE core booklist online portal


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When I first set out to write this article, I was hoping to write about the science – the science behind potential treatments, research going from bench to bedside, the importance of clinical trials.
But, this is not what this post will be about.
At the time this article is written, Ebola is raging through West Africa. So far, 4872 cases have been reported, and 2445 have died because of Ebola.
Ebola epidemic is the largest, and most severe, and most complex we have ever seen in the nearly 40-year history of this disease…No one, even outbreak responders, (has) ever seen anything like it.
– Margaret Chen, WHO Director General
Now, much of the early attention has been on the science. What is Ebola – and why isn't there a cure? What kind of potential treatments are available? All great, because people should learn about Ebola. But little has been discussed about how it got to the point it is right now.
So if this is not about science, what is it about?
I could only imagine how I would feel in that situation, watching others get sick and die, wondering if I would be next. Then I considered the deplorable conditions — no visitors were allowed, and a bucket served as a bathroom — and how I, wearing my protective 'spacesuit', must have looked to the curled man. The idea of becoming sick with Ebola in Sierra Leone frightened me.
– Daniel Kelly, wrote about his experience interacting with Ebola patients
It is about the long-term distrust between the developing and developed worlds, the uneven distribution of wealth and resources, the unsettle political situations in parts of Africa, the lack of local research and healthcare infrastructure.
It is about not even receiving the basic supportive care, which could make a significant difference in the outcome of an infection.
It is about assuming that everyone in this world "should have known better" but forgetting that not everyone has the same access to resources, information, health care, and education that we in developed countries do.
It is about the developed world profit from the natural resources and cheap labours in Africa, and then say "hey, this crisis is not scary until it hits our homes." Because, until then, it is their problems, not ours.
We clearly have the power to care. The #IceBucketChallenge raised hundreds of millions for ALS research. The iPhone launch had people lining up outside of the Apple Stores for days. Yet, the Ebola crisis seems to have taken a back seat in most news coverage since the very beginning.
I am hoping that the tide is changing. Starting from more people calling for international actions. Starting from developed countries realizing that everyone is affected by this. Starting from WHO and UN taking a real leadership role in this crisis because it needs to be done. Starting from more first-hand stories from those in the middle of this outbreak, like this, this, this, and this PBS documentary.
But more importantly, I hope we will start to change. That we will start to think about crises like this as crises for all; we are simply lucky enough to be born in the developed world, to have access to health care, to have years of education – privileges that not everyone in this world gets to enjoy. And that sooner or later, this crisis is going to affect us all – not just public health-wise, but also politically and economically – no matter where we are. I just hope that more people won't have to die for it.
Science, alone, cannot resolve the Ebola crisis. But with humanity, we can.
Please take a moment to donate to Doctors without Borders: US link; Canada link (Note that the donations might not be earmarked specifically for the Ebola crisis. This is simply so that they can spend the money for effectively at where it is needed, including but not limited to the Ebola crisis. I am okay with that – they are probably drained by Ebola and could need funding for other important, life-saving initiatives. They also spend 80+% of their money in the field.)
Here are a few great articles I've come across:
- As a Canadian, I am extremely frustrated by our government's inaction: Read An outbreak of red tape in the Ebola fight by Michael Petrou (Macleans). This is further emphasized by Gerald Caplan in his article, Systemic problems made Africa vulnerable to Ebola :
This week WHO said it needs $1-billion for its Ebola work. That's nothing more than punk change if the world cared. Canada, for example, found it could afford an average of $1-billion-plus each year of the 12-year war against the Taliban. Yet unconscionably, it's taken until this week for the world to begin anything like a serious response to the epidemic. But in the words of Dr. Joanne Liu, international president of Medecíns Sans Frontiérès – and where would we be without MSF? – these latest contributions are "absolutely not enough."
As if proving her point, the Harper government just announced Canada's latest contribution to this massive emergency: $2.5-million in personal protective equipment for medical staff working in the affected areas. Maybe this was a typo. Or maybe it just doesn't fit with the Conservatives' pre-election strategy.
- Ebola – the World's Katrina by Judy Stone (Scientific American Blog) – one of the best I have read.
- America's shameful ebola ignorance: The troubling truth about our attitude toward the virus by Susan Sered (Salon) – As a Professor of Sociology, she discussed how the Ebola crisis has been portrayed by western media, and the real reason for the distrust of foreign health workers.
- The Canadian response to Ebola: a new science diplomacy? by Pascal Lapointe & Karine Morin (Science Borealis Editorial) – an excellent summary, probably will have you asking more questions than getting answers from.
- The virus detective who discovered Ebola in 1976 by Rob Brown (BBC News Magazine) – A very very interesting story, I highly recommend it.
- Ebola doctor reveals how infected Americans were cured by Dina Fine Maron (Nature | Scientific American) – It speaks to the importance of supportive care to treating Ebola. The lack of basic health care equipments and resources is making it much more difficult to treat patients.
- Why Ebola Is Making It Harder To Provide Good Health Care by Richard Harries (NPR) – It is not only Ebola that is killing people. The exhausted health care systems mean that patients could die of very treatable illnesses such as malaria.
- I'm the head nurse at Emory. This is why we wanted to bring the Ebola patients to the U.S. by Susan M. Grant – Really moving.
As human beings, we all hope that if we were in need of superior health care, our country and its top doctors would help us get better. We can either let our actions be guided by misunderstandings, fear and self-interest, or we can lead by knowledge, science and compassion. We can fear, or we can care.
If you have more time, check out the following collections of articles on ebola


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One day, after watching a bit of the World Poker Tour on television, I decided I thought i'd indulge from a little game of poker with my partner. I had learned a few tricks before the the show, and was absolutely certain that I could throw out a few winning biceps and triceps! This was online game that would end up interesting the boys in the game.


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Family fun at Fell Foot this spring
There's so much happening at Fell Foot this spring, enjoy fun family days out on the lakeshore of Lake Windermere.
Spring Discovery Trail
Discover the new children's trail during the school Easter holidays 8-23 April, see nature come alive and have a 'Wild Time' at Fell Foot with the spring Discovery Trail. A prize will be waiting at the end. The boathouse café will be serving Easter treats, rowboats and other activities will also be available (weather permitting). Trail £2pp
On the water
Enjoy the lake from a ducks eye-view, enjoy splashing around and exploring, row boat hire starts from £10pp (8 April to end October) weather permitting.


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Portsmouth is a city steeped in maritime history, and our new hotel is right in the heart of it all. Visit the Mary Rose Museum and the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard to see some of the finest vessels of England's past. Nautical history not your thing? Don't worry – Portsmouth is a city brimming with things to do. Check out the city's waterfront, where you'll find Gunwharf Quays Premium Retail Outlet, Portsmouth's leading contemporary art gallery, and the city's flagship 21st century attraction, the Spinnaker Tower.
Our brand new Portsmouth hotel opened in late 2017 and is located in the Lakeside North Business Park. We're located to the north of Portsea Island, with excellent transport links to both the city of Portsmouth and the wider Hampshire area via the M27 and the A3. Cosham train station is just a short walk away with a regular service into the city centre. And at our Portsmouth hotel, you'll find everything you need in once place, with a business space, a Starbucks, restaurant and bar and a gym all in one location. To check availability or to book your stay with us, just click the "book a room" button!
Our rooms come with:
Village Hotel, Lakeshore Drive Portsmouth , PO6 3FR (For Satnav follow PO6 3PQ) Find on Googlemaps Contact Us
Really nice hotel, the upgrade to the Club rooms are worth it. Pool excellent and also the evening meal. Will definitely stay here every time I'm in Portsmouth.
We enjoyed our weekend away and used the lovely facilities, the room was a club and was lovely speaking with Alexa. The glass feature with full view is also fantastic and the room is full of accessories.
We stayed here for the weekend and had a great stay. The staff were so friendly and welcoming. Would recommend the club room with the added extras you get. The food was good had dinner and breakfast in the hotel all freshly cooked. The gym had an excellent range of equipment and classes the Trip and outdoor boot camp with Alison was outstanding and so much fun. Would highly recommend this hotel.
From an early breakfast to a working lunch, dinner for two or a big night out with family or friends, our Pub & Grill in Portsmouth hits the right note every time. Enjoy a selection of tasty food and an array of drinks served from 12pm - 9:30pm.
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Visit your local VWorks shared workspace at Portsmouth
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A Portsmouth wedding venue or graduation, a charity bash or party night. Out flexible, friendly approach means your next big event will go like a dream.
Portsmouth is packed with places to see, so we've put together a guide on the best things to do
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Find out more about local initiatives or get in touch to get involved.
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In the press yesterday was news that Gwyneth Paltrow and her husband Chris Martin are to 'consciously uncouple'. By this they mean they will continue to remain friends and co-parent but hope to reduce all the emotions that commonly come with a separation – anger, sadness, and bitterness.
Relationship difficulties and separations can be an extremely stressful and upsetting time for couples and families.
Relationships are often complex things, particularly when there are children involved. Both partners have a shared love of the children and want to make things as pleasant as possible for them. Despite this, anger and bitterness can often lead to significant conflict during relationship difficulties and the children can get caught in the middle.
But whether you have children or not, there are some common relationship issues that may lead you to feel unhappy in your relationship.
Common relationship issues
Arguing - couples can get 'trapped' in a cycle of arguing which is more about who wins and less about who empties the dishwasher. This can be very destructive and can lead you to feel that your partner dislikes you.
Intimacy - couples often describe feeling as if they are living together as flatmates rather than partners. Professor Leslie Greenberg, a Canadian psychologist has identified a cycle in which one partner pursues the other for intimacy and the other partner becomes more distant to escape the situation.
Relationship beliefs - we all grow up with certain beliefs which often stem from our families. These may relate to how we want to bring up our children or even how we deal with conflict. When you are your partner do not share similar beliefs about the things that are important to you both, things can get tricky.
Mental health problems - common mental health difficulties such as depression and anxiety can impact significantly on the health of a relationship.
Is there a way back for my relationship?
If you and your partner are committed to making your relationship work, it is worth seeking the help of a relationship counsellor who will work with you, listen to what you both have to say and remain neutral during the process. You do not need to come to relationship counselling with your partner – and indeed it is common for individuals to seek help alone – but it is usually more beneficial if you can both attend at least some of the sessions.
What if it's over?
You may be surprised to hear that a relationship counsellor can provide the support you need to work through the issues that arise at the end of a relationship. Whether you view this process as a 'conscious uncoupling' or a 'big split', it can be a devastating time for both partners. There is often a grieving process involved, but a relationship counsellor can help you work through any issues that arise and help you move on to greater happiness.
Further information about relationship problems
To read our information sheet about relationship problems see


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McGeorge School of Law teamed up with All of Us or None and Legal Services for Prisoners with Children to present Clean Slate Day the afternoon of Saturday April 23, 2016.
Members of the community were invited to receive assistance with felony convictions that could be reduced through Proposition 47, expunged, or be subject to a Certificate of Rehabilitation. Approximately 50 participants were helped at the four-hour event.
To prepare participants to meet with an attorney, first-year McGeorge and UC Davis students handled intake meetings, and second- and third-year students reviewed RAP sheets. Participants then met with volunteer attorneys and paralegals to thoroughly review options, complete forms and understand the process.
Third-year McGeorge student Aysha Pal was a key organizer of the event on campus, along with fourth-year evening student Jordan Davis. Alumni Keith Staten, '92, and Amanda Massimini,'14, were among the volunteers.
"The goals of this event were to do more than just explain and refer," said Aysha. "I wanted participants to walk away with completed forms ready for filing, bringing them one step closer to a clean slate, and we achieved that goal thanks to all of the volunteers and everyone involved with this event!"
One participant wrote a thank you note for helping him and the community. "I wanted to take some time to express my gratitude for the services provided at the 'clean slate day.' If there is anything I can do to help you further this cause, do not hesitate to ask. Again thank you on behalf of all who received services on Saturday."
Prop 47 was passed in Nov. 4, 2014, and it re-categorized some nonviolent offenses as misdemeanors, rather than felonies. Prop 47 applies to future convictions, and the measure also allows for people currently incarcerated or on probation for crimes covered by the measure to petition for re-sentencing. Unfortunately, the retroactive re-sentencing aspect of Prop 47 is only in effect until November 2017. Expungements (under Penal Code 1203.4, 1203.4a, and 1203.41) remove not only past convictions, but the stigma associated with a felony conviction. Expunging felony convictions help people with employment, education, public benefits, and more. Clean Slate Day volunteers also helped participants who were not eligible for expungements apply for a Certificate of Rehabilitation, which enhances the employment and licensing opportunities of the participants.
Two more Clean Slate/Prop 47 events are scheduled in Sacramento in May and June:
Anyone who wants to volunteer or get help at the upcoming events on May 21 and June 25 can contact Aaliyah Muhammad at 916.501.9988, firstname.lastname@example.com. {Download a flyer (pdf).}