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Alexander Neu
PhD Student
Research interests and current projects
ProteaNet: Spatiotemporal dynamics of plant-animal interaction networks
ProteaNet is the follow-up project of ProteaBird and investigates Protea communities in South African fynbos. I will extend spatial and short-term analyses of ProteaBird, conducted by Baptiste Schmid and Henning Nottebrock, and will study how plant-based resources determine long-term dynamics of animal communities. I will address fundamental ecological questions about mechanisms that underlie life-history variation, species coexistence, and the structuring of mutualistic and antagonistic plant-animal interaction networks.
I will specifically study the resource allocation for animal-mediated indirect interactions among Protea plants. I will also test how the spatiotemporal dynamics of Protea-based resources (nectar, pollen, seeds) affect the functional and interaction diversity of bird, rodent, and insect pollinators and seed predators. This will enable us to investigate how mutualistic and antagonistic plant-animal interaction networks assemble in space and time and how the spatiotemporal dynamics of these networks affect plant community dynamics.
I am working under the supervision of PD Dr. Matthias Schleuning. The project is conducted together with Prof. Dr. Frank Schurr and the PhD student Huw Cooksley from the University of Hohenheim, in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Karen Esler and with Prof. Dr. Anton C. Pauw at the University of Stellenbosch. The project is funded by the German Research Foundation.
Functional diversity of birds along land-use and elevational gradients on Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
For my Diploma thesis, I worked within the DFG-funded research unit KiLi. The aim was to test whether differences in avian ecomorphological traits depict the functional roles (dietary and foraging preferences) of bird species on Mount Kilimanjaro. I also investigated changes in the functional diversity of the bird communities along an elevational gradient and with land-cover change. This research gives insights into how anthropogenic impacts could modify ecosystem functions of birds.
External Links
Profile on Google Scholar
Press coverage
Vögel beobachten und mitteilen (Citizen Science) [German] SWR, 7 Feb 2017
Further Links
Project description ProteaNet


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Today was the first morning I woke up in Constanta. Mihaela brought me to the piata, the market, to buy fresh fruits and vegetables from local vendors, some of whom grow the produce themselves.
|At the piata
At the piata I bought some local honey, some beans, an onion, and some garlic.
|The beans, onion, and garlic I bought at the piata.
Next, we went to the university where I will be teaching. I met many professors in the English department, saw the classrooms where my classes will be held, and got a tour of the American Corner library and study center. I found out that I will only be teaching on Wednesdays and Thursdays, which means I can spend my 5-day weekends travelling if I want.
On the way back to the apartment, Mihaela showed me a street where there are a lot of small shops in one area. There are produce stands, a pastry shop, some mini-marts, a butcher shop, a dairy where you can get fresh milk bottled for you from a barrel. There's also a bank, a cell phone store, and a clothing store.
Then I returned to my apartment. I haven't showed you pictures yet, so here's what the outside of the building and the hallway look like. I figured I should make you love the inside before you saw the grizzled exterior.
|The main entrance to my building. It photographs well; the camera is generous.
|My apartment is the one on the second floor
|From the hallway, looking at the entrance
|Looking up the stairs. My apartment is the door in the right hand corner.
|Looking up at my apartment building
|The beach is a bit shell-covered
|The first sea glass I've found that's actually from the sea.

subset: commoncrawl


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With the famous Italian Formula 1 Grand Prix taking place at Monza this weekend, I thought it would be a good opportunity to take a look back at the 2013 race, which Any Given Reason attended. If you can't be there in person you might as well be there in spirit, right?
This post won't attempt a blow-by-blow account of the race because you can find that elsewhere, written by far more knowledgeable and experienced scribes than myself. This post aims to give a glimpse of what it's actually like to attend the Italian GP; information that doesn't make the international broadcast.
The Monza circuit is situated near the city of Monza, around 50km north of Milan in northern Italy. Below it sits Italy's motor valley and the homes of Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Pagani are all less than a couple of hours drive away. Around 30km north of Monza sits Lake Como, the gateway to the Alps and the rest of Europe. Monza is the spiritual home of modern Formula 1, and is the only circuit to have held a round of the World Championship every year since its inception. Continue reading


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Hey, Tony E-Science and its Implications for the Library Community., 2006 . In 8th International Bielefeld Conference, Bielefeld (Germany), 7-9 February 2006. (Unpublished) [Presentation]
Microsoft PowerPoint
Download (9MB)
English abstract
The Internet was the inspiration of J.C.R.Licklider when he was at the Advanced Research Projects Agency in the 1960's. In those pre-Moore's Law days, Licklider imagined a future in which researchers could access and use computers and data from anywhere in the world. He funded an elite group of Computer Science Departments in the USA - which he called his 'InterGalactic Computing Group' - to explore how to realize his vision. Today, as everyone knows, the killer applications of the Internet were email in the 1970's and Tim Berners-Lee's World Wide Web in the 1990's which was developed as a collaboration tool for the particle physics academic community. In the future, frontier research in many fields will increasingly require the collaboration of globally distributed groups of researchers needing access to distributed computing, data resources and support for remote access to expensive, multi-national specialized facilities such as telescopes and accelerators or specialist data archives. There is also a general belief that an important road to innovation will be provided by multi-disciplinary and collaborative research - from systems biology and bio-informatics to earth systems science and chemo-informatics. In the context of science and engineering, this is the 'e-Science' agenda. Robust middleware services will be widely deployed on top of the academic research networks to constitute the necessary 'e-Infrastructure' - or 'Cyberinfrastructure' - to provide a collaborative research environment for the global academic community. This talk will review the elements of this vision and describe how the scientists and engineers are collaborating with computer scientists and the IT industry to create the new e-Infrastructure. When mature, it is clear that such an infrastructure will support the creation of dynamic 'Virtual Organizations' and collaborative environments for many types of application in both academia and industry. This new e-Infrastructure will clearly be of relevance to more than just the research community and will support both the e-learning and digital library communities as well as many business applications. This technology is likely also to change the nature of scientific publication with institutional or subject repositories linked to digital archives containing the primary research data.
|Item type:
|e-Science ; Cyberinfrastructure ; scientific publishing
|F. Management. > FZ. None of these, but in this section.
|Depositing user:
|Dirk Lewandowski
|Date deposited:
|09 Mar 2006
|Last modified:
|02 Oct 2014 12:02
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Well that depends. Assuming you passed the first two important criteria of ownership of your building and decent roof (or alternative) space for panels, the last key criteria to satisfy is your location. Your location (i.e. where you live) is an important factor when going solar, because your location determines the following three factors, which in turn will determine if going solar will make economic sense for you.
1) Solar Resource: This is how much sun you get. As you can see from the below map, some places have a lot more solar resource than others. An average location in the US gets 1600 hours of sun per year. Seattle, WA gets only 1300 where as Boulder, CO gets 1900 hours per year. Obviously the more solar resource the more it makes sense to go solar.
2) Your Utility Company and its Electricity Rates: Electricity rates range from 6 cents per kWh to 45 cents per kWh across the US. In most cases, if you are paying more than ~13 cents per kWh, then making an investment in a solar system will make financial sense for you.
3) Your consumption and effective rate: One important aspect of your bill is how your consumption is charged. For example in California, the average electricity rate is about 15 cents per kWh. But in most utility company districts, there is the practice of tiered pricing. That means your consumption is charged at increasing rates as your consumption rises. So people with larger homes pay 12 cents per kWh for their base level usage but quickly jump to paying rates of 25 to 40 cents per kWh for any consumption over the base usage. In such cases, it makes sense to offset your high rate usage but not necessarily your base level usage.
Learn how to calculate the return on investment of a solar system >>
[How to calculate exactly how big a solar system to build].


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Internet Week Europe (IWE 2012) is Coming!
It's like Internet Week New York with an accent.
Well, a different accent.
Actually, a bunch of different accents.
Maybe we should just start again....
This year we're proud once again to sponsor Internet Week Europe in London on the 12 -16 of November. A mere three years old, and hundreds of individual events strong, IWE is a huge celebration of Europe's best and brightest in digital.
We're also ecstatic to be hosting a Portfolio Review Day at our London Vitamin T office from 1 to 5pm on 13 November. It's free! Just register online to have experts get your portfolio up and running on all creative cylinders.
Even if you don't stop by to get your portfolio reviewed, don't miss out on the rest of the week. Since the majority of events are crowdsourced, events will be anywhere and everywhere, from conferences to parties and luncheon talks to networking breakfasts.
Check out the IWE calendar to sign up and get the ball rolling. Some events are free and others cost just a small entrance fee. But you'll need to register to access everything you'll need to get your learning on.
Don't forget, our very own Digital Zookeeper will be covering events live, so don't miss out on her enthralling commentary on @vitamintalent and Facebook.


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CII Survey Ranks Vedanta Among Top 10 Sustainable Firms: Media Report
Mining conglomerate Vedanta said a CII survey has ranked the company among the top 10 sustainable companies in India.
"Vedanta Ltd...Has been given the 'Sustainable Plus Platinum label' for FY 2015 by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)," the company said in a statement.
"Sustainable development agenda is at the core of Vedanta's strategic priorities. As an organisation, our commitment towards 'Social License to Operate' goes beyond the regulatory compliance and we are focused on the sustainable development, inclusive growth and greater value creation for all our internal and external stakeholders," Vedanta CEO Tom Albanese said in the statement.
Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Development (CESD), founded by CII-ITC, undertakes environmental, social and governance (ESG) analysis of the top 100 companies across 20 sectors., reported PTI.


text: There are a number of tidal channels in Biscayne National Park. They can occur between islands or between shoals, and are especially abundant at the north end of the park in the area known as "The Safety Valve." Channels are a mixture of Bay and ocean water, affected by the ebb and flow of tides. There is regular turbulence and abundant food and oxygen supply with a salinity similar to the open ocean. Shoals are shallow areas with plenty of sunlight, frequent turbulence, current flow, and dense colonies of algae.


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Every year the American Library Association (ALA) sends out its annual call for volunteers for committee work. Last week, I was happily reminded why I love being a part ALA. I want to share my journey on how beneficial it is to be active in the professional organization. I am pursuing a Master's degree in Library Science through the University of North Texas' online program. The benefits of my online LIS program is that it has given me the opportunity to become mobile and take advantage of library fellowships, internships, and leadership programs.
3 Benefits for Joining ALA as a Student Member:
I joined because I wanted to get involved and learn about the library profession in a holistic way. ALA is an organization that seeks to speak about the various aspects of the library profession, from technical services, public services, career development, information literacy, research/statistical assessments, diversity initiatives, etc. My participation as a 2010 ALA Emerging Leader (Group D), was invaluable because I had the opportunity to learn about the Assn. for Library Collection and Technical Services (ALCTS), a committee within ALA. It was through my EL project participation, I was offered a volunteer position as a webinar technical assistant with the ALCTS CE Technical Subcommittee.
By joining ALA as a student, I have met wonderful people along the way who have encouraged me to take on projects and have served as wonderful role models. I wanted to meet people in the library world and build professional relationships in the field. Through my experience as an ALA Student Member, I feel like my expectations have been met by my affiliation. I have taken advantage of ALA-sponsored webinars related to career development, job searching strategies, and internship opportunities.
I have taken a unique path by not having professional library experience before entering my library program. I do not regret not having library experience prior to attending library school. I am not discouraged about the literature reviews or reports about library hiring trends. My curiosity, motivation, and active participation in ALA will give me the experience I need in the future. My participation as a student member in ALA has allowed me to develop skills in technical services and has kept me aware of current trends in the library world. So my advice to students….don't wait until you have your degree to get experience start now! Become Active Now!


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Project Overview
With an ageing population and increasing numbers of people with life-limiting illness there is a growing demand for Palliative Care Day Services. There is a need to assess value but currently little agreement on which aspects of care should be used to evaluate services. Development and implementation of Quality Indicators for Palliative Care Day Services is a key priority which would provide service-providers and commissioners with a means of defining, measuring and comparing quality of care
As part of the QualPalUK project, agreement on a Quality Indicator set will be reached using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method, a method of reaching consensus based on differing opinion. The process involves a group of experts considering and rating candidate indicators using evidence summaries and their own experience. Experts individually rated the appropriateness of a list of potential quality indicators before attending a group meeting in December 2015 where the ratings where discussed and re-rated to develop a final list of core indicators. The project will now develop and test the implementation of a toolkit for assessment of the final Quality Indicator set in a Palliative Care Day Service setting
The RAND/UCLA process


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- chagrin
Anagrams dictionary. Muhammad Sabir. 2013.
Look at other dictionaries:
Arching — Arch ing, n. 1. The arched part of a structure. [1913 Webster] 2. (Naut.) Hogging; opposed to {sagging}. [1913 Webster] … The Collaborative International Dictionary of English
arching — [är′chiŋ] adj. forming an arch n. 1. an arched part 2. a series of arches … English World dictionary
Arching — Arch Arch, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Arched} ([aum]rcht); p. pr. & vb. n. {Arching}.] 1. To cover with an arch or arches. [1913 Webster] 2. To form or bend into the shape of an arch. [1913 Webster] The horse arched his neck. Charlesworth. [1913… … The Collaborative International Dictionary of English
arching — /ahr ching/, n. arched work or formation. [1670 80; ARCH1 + ING1] * * * … Universalium
arching — É'Ëtʃ n. vault, upward curve; entrance with a curved top, vaulted doorway v. make arched, make vaulted, build an arch; be arched, be vaulted adj. shrewd, cunning, sly; chief, main, principal pref. chief, principal … English contemporary dictionary
arching — a. Vaulted, curving, bending … New dictionary of synonyms
arching — Forming an arch; in cycads, used to describe the natural orientation of a leaf or the most recent crown or flush of leaves, e.g. the crown of Ceratozamia kuesteriana. Cf. ascending, erect, spreading … Expanded glossary of Cycad terms
arching — arch·ing … English syllables
arching — /ˈatʃɪŋ/ (say ahching) noun arched work or formation … Australian English dictionary


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Recipes. Homemaking. Marriage and Motherhood Memoirs. The Song of Life God has put in My Heart.
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Amazing Family, Delicious Food, and the Love of Christ!
20 comments:
- NanaNor's said...
Hi Leslie, I am so thankful that we have access to Perfect Peace. I loved. Hearing about your moms visit with your sister. Your pizza looks so good, as does your breakfast. Have a blessed Easter week and resurrection day.
Hugs, Noreen
- March 26, 2013 at 4:08 PM
- Bernideen said...
Your blog is a wonderful testimony of God's goodness. Food looks incredible!!!
- March 26, 2013 at 4:45 PM
- Melody said...
I really enjoyed today's post. I loved seeing you with your Mom and sister. I lost my Mom in 1994 when I was only 33. But as you know God always has a plan and I have been blessed with a loving, kind "second" Mom. I am not sure why I am so very touched by your post today and I do not usually comment. You just never know when you write whose life it will touch. Thanks and God bless.
- March 26, 2013 at 5:01 PM
- Lois' Laughlines said...
He is risen, he is risen, Indeed!
blessings to you.
- March 26, 2013 at 5:02 PM
- Coffee Mom said...
Celebrating His resurrection with you!! So glad His perfect love casts out fear. What a fun time you shared with your family!
- March 26, 2013 at 6:10 PM
- Maria said...
I loved your post! Your pizza looks delicious and how fun to get to spend time with your family!
And I was actually thinking the same thing today as I was reading my Bible - the more time I spend reading, the more I trust the Lord and the more I see His faithfulness and am able to get through moments of struggle and anxiety. It's amazing how God works and speaks to us! Your blog is so encouraging, Leslie, and I always love what you have to say!
- March 26, 2013 at 7:26 PM
- Jen said...
Leslie, Enjoyed reading your sweet post. Thinking about you and know that my prayers are going up to our Heavenly Father for you and your hubby. His divine plan is always perfect! For several years I've really had to pray hard for that peace and some days I have it and then my human worries come out again. I question God why things have happen and then he speaks to me though things I hear or see. Music is one thing that really speaks to me and I often will hear encourage tunes that we keep me fighting on with such a simple truths...Just Trust, Have Hope and Faith...Sweet daughter just surrender it ALL to me He says.
The pizza look amazing too! Such a sweet bond you have with your mom and sister. Keep encourage never lose HOPE!
- March 26, 2013 at 8:27 PM
- elizabeth said...
Beautiful, delicious, love filled post!
I'm praying and believing that God will lead you and guide you and give you the desires of your heart.
I told you the story of our oldest daughter who after 10 years of infertility and 3 miscarriages now has two miracle girlies. I think watching her go through all that was the hardest thing I've ever been through. I so wanted to take her pain away. BUT, GOD! Now the memory of that pain seems long ago and far away as I see her with her sweet girls.
Much love to you, dear Leslie, and I will commit to praying for you.
- March 27, 2013 at 12:34 AM
- laurie said...
What a wonderful testament of your faith. Looks like you had such a wonderful time, God surely has blessed you with an awesome family. God's will is not always ours, or always in OUR time. I'll be praying He blesses you with children soon!
- March 27, 2013 at 7:07 AM
- Jocelyn said...
You completely and totally inspired me this morning! God knew I needed to read this today!!! Thank you so much for sharing the wonderful things from your week. That pizza looks so delicious!!!
- March 27, 2013 at 10:03 AM
- Joy said...
You and you husband are in my prayers. Your blog is such a blessing
- March 27, 2013 at 7:30 PM
- Michelle said...
What a great time. I make homemade pizza all the time. I like it so much better then delivery. I am going to check out your sticky buns. They look so good .
- March 27, 2013 at 10:18 PM
- Ali @ Jamhands.net said...
The pizza looks delish and you 3 girls are completely adorable! Love that you all wore shades of pink/purple. So cute :)
- March 28, 2013 at 11:23 AM
- Beth @A Little Country House said...
Leslie, I just love you! Yes, Jesus paid it all! and He is gracious and loves us. I have been right where you are. Right in the middle of it. I am certain he has such special plans awaiting you and your husband. Press on and keep praising him, you are salt and light!
- March 28, 2013 at 1:14 PM
- Dewena said...
Leslie, Ater reading this sweet post i read the comments above and I know that they have brought happiness to you. You have touched many with this post and with your previous posts as we get a glimpse not only of your cooking, beautiful photographs and home but also into your life and spirit. May the grace of God be with you on this special Sunday,
- March 28, 2013 at 6:27 PM
- Dayle ~ A Collection of Days said...
Oh my ... those pizzas have me drooling. They look amazing.
I just stumbled across your blog tonight (this morning, technically) and while I don't know your story, I pray you will realize the hopes of having a child.
- March 29, 2013 at 1:32 AM
- Dayle ~ A Collection of Days said...
Happy to follow you back, Leslie. And I love your name. I have a beautiful niece with the same name.
- March 29, 2013 at 9:42 AM
- Lois' Laughlines said...
What a sweet post. The food looks amazing. Even more amazing, that Jesus loves us... He is risen, he is risen, Indeed.
blessings to you.
- March 29, 2013 at 4:42 PM
- kitty@ Kitty's Kozy Kitchen said...
Hi Leslie, what beautiful women you all are! I enjoyed seeing your pic and hearing about all the fabulous food you enjoyed. We don't know what God has in mind for our future. We'd like to be in control, but having faith in Him is our goal. Have a blessed week! xo
- April 1, 2013 at 7:41 PM
- Shiloh Barkley said...
Pressed coffee is the BEST! Even better in the china.
- April 6, 2013 at 9:36 PM


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Image via Wikipedia
Who's up for a tweetup at the Port? Thanks to @LBMatt, we can take photos and someone may win some Port swag.
RSVP in the comments.
March 2009: This is My Port of Long Beach
Type: Photo Contest
Deadline: March 26, 2009
Prize: A package of Port gear goodies
This contests mission is to capture peoples favorite images of the Port of Long Beach. This can include the ships, cranes or even a past event hosted by the Port.
Photographers will be shooting for the top three spots in this contest. Photos must be of the Port of Long Beach or any photo from past Port events. Winning entries will be featured on our website and considered for print publication in our newsletters. Did we mention winners will receive a package of free Port gear goodies? Entries must be accompanied by a description of the event if applicable along with date and place. Photographers chosing to come out to the Port should keep local and federal laws in mind; stay on the public roads and be safe. But dont forget: Give us your best shot!
Where: Port Administration Building is 925 Harbor Plaza, Long Beach, CA 90802
When: Saturday, March 7th, 2009 @ 10 AM
What to bring: walking shoes, tripod, and of course your camera(s).
Remember to RSVP in the comments or if you must, @dananner on twitter.


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Conocophillips has outlined its 2011 capital expenditure program of US $13.5 billion, which represents a significant increase in Exploration and Production (E&P) segment expenditures as compared to the Company's last year's budgetary program. Jim Mulva, chairman and chief executive officer said that, "This year's capital budget reflects our emphasis on building the upstream business".
- 21% increase in capital budget – from US $11.2 billion in 2010 to US $13.5 billion for 2011
- US $12 billion for E&P activities which takes about 90% of the total budget
- About US $1.2 billion for Refining and Marketing and US $0.3 billion for global information systems and corporate facilities
E&P Goals:
· Improve margins and capital efficiency
· Deliver production growth
· Continue to pursue high‐impact exploration
· Ongoing improvement in safety and operational excellence
Core Focus
North America (Capital expenditure: $6 billion)
· United States : Building core areas in Eagle Ford, Bakken and North Barnett and ongoing development in the San Juan Basin and the company's contribution to the Marine Well Containment Company in the U.S
· Canada : Focus on existing SAGD oil sands projects and selective programs in the Western Canada gas basins, primarily on high-graded resource plays and on maintaining a substantial position for future development
· Alaska : Development of the existing Prudhoe Bay and Kuparuk Fields, as well as the Western North Slope
Europe, Asia Pacific and Africa (Capital expenditure: $6 billion)
· Europe : Spending on existing and new opportunities in the Greater Ekofisk Area, the Greater Britannia Fields, various Southern North Sea assets, and the development of the Jasmine and Clair Ridge projects
· Asia Pacific : Further development of the coalbed methane-to-LNG project associated with the Australia Pacific LNG joint venture, as well as for the development of new fields offshore Malaysia, Indonesia, and offshore Vietnam
· Africa : Onshore developments in Nigeria, Algeria and Libya and continued development of the Kashagan Field in the Caspian Sea region
Jim Mulva also said that, "This year's capital budget reflects our emphasis on building the upstream business," said Jim Mulva, chairman and chief executive officer. "We expect competitive returns from our increased investments in North American and Australian unconventional resource projects. In addition, we are pursuing organic reserve and production growth by converting our existing resource base to proven reserves, participating in high-impact exploration wells and building acreage positions for future development."


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Energy Boost Roller
Twig + Petal® Energy Boost Roller awakens your senses and energizes your mind, body, and spirit. A perfect jumpstart for mornings or for use as a midday pick-me-up. Lemon and grapefruit revitalize energy. Neroli uplifts your spirit and combats fatigue.
Bottled in Los Angeles.
Pure essential oils of: Orange, Grapefruit, Lemon, Neroli in Jojoba. 100% Organic Ingredients.
Topical: Apply to the inside of each foot or behind the ears.
Avoid contact with eyes. Discontinue use if skin irritation occurs. Always consult with a physician before use if pregnant or nursing. For external use only—do not ingest. May cause photosensitivity; avoid sun exposure for at least 24 hours following application.


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McAllen Heritage Center in McAllen, TX
The McAllen Heritage Center in McAllen, TX provides research into the history and arts for the community's rich heritage.
If you have any interest in researching your genealogical roots, you have arrived at the right place. History buffs and curiosity seekers can spend an engaging morning or afternoon any Tuesday through Saturday at the McAllen Heritage Center, which opened in 2008 on South Main Street in downtown McAllen.
Research Facility
The center has become a first-class facility for research. On display for the public to enjoy are a number of thought-provoking exhibits and research tools that detail McAllen's long-documented history. Specifically, the McAllen Heritage Center features works of art, documents, pictures, records and books that can help a visitor better understand the development of the area's culture.
The hours of operation for MHC are 1-5 p.m. on Tuesday-Friday and Saturdays from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. A number of projects are being planned in the future for the center, including a Traveling Trunks exhibit for schoolteachers to assist them in teaching about McAllen's history.
Art Classes
The center also plans to introduce art classes for children of all ages. MHC already plays a big part in the annual Palmfest, which is the city of McAllen's grand folklife festival that takes place for two days in October. Although the festival occurs primarily at the McAllen Convention Center, the Heritage Center hosts many exhibits and events during the celebration, including a Valley Rails railroad display, cultural demonstrations and artisans at work, and sales of historical and collectible items related to McAllen's heritage.
Read More:


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UI professor tours, records, connects through jazz
By Sarah Foster
December 3, 2014
When he first saw it, he was ten years old. And, for whatever reason, he thought it might be interesting. Now 54 years later, Jim Pugh, professor of jazz studies at the University, sits in his office behind the door's "Bone Island" sign, a shorthand nod to his life's profession. He tries to re...


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Chain Reaction Shooter
3,569 plays
Chain Reaction Shooter
Posted on February 25, 2015.
Game file size of 0.31 MB.
Take on the futuristic match-three bubble shooter game where you must clear out the conglomerate of bubbles gathered in the middle of the screen. Aim carefully though as it will pivot either to the left or the right depending on the angle at which you hit the group of bubbles. Miss hitting the gathered bubbles a couple of times and watch as more bubbles are attracted inward. Clear the centre to move up to another level in this fun match-three style game. Chain Reaction Shooter is presented to you by SolidGames.com. This shooting game has been played 3,569 times by our visitors and currently has a rating of 50% after 4 votes.
Shooting Games | Strategy Games


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Page last updated on
Thursday, July 16, 2020
You are here:
Prof. R. N. Saha (Director, BITS Pilani-Dubai campus) received chair professorship award in the recognition of their
significant contributions to teaching/research work. Recently, Prof R.
Mahesh (Professor of Pharmacy and Dean faculty Affairs Division) received
best paper award (Pharmacology discipline) in APTI held in Oct. 2011 at
Moga, Punjab. Recently, the department of Pharmacy has been sanctioned five
UGC funded BSR fellowships for PhD students. Currently there are 17 faculty members and 46 full-time PhD students in the Dept.
of Pharmacy.
Our faculty have extensive experience in industry, research as well as teaching. Our strength is a reflection of their skills, innovation and drive. Our staff members typically have a high sense of purpose and derive great meaning from working together to ensure BITS Pilani's academic and research excellence is well supported.
Higher Degree (HD) M.Pharm. programme with specialization in Pharmacology
Click here for more details
Click here for details
An Institution Deemed to be University estd. vide Sec.3 of the UGC Act,1956 under notification # F.12-23/63.U-2 of Jun 18,1964
© 2020 Centre for Software Development,SDET Unit, BITS-Pilani, India.
Designed and developed by fractal | ink design studios


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Then I strain out all the chunks so it is just broth.
Now would be when to make gravy or to add to soup. You can also put it in ice cube trays...freeze...pop out of the trays and put in zip lock baggies to store. That way when you want a little broth to flavor something you can pull out just what you need.
Now this is time consuming...but not hard. I did it when I was making ribs which takes a while in the oven. Two birds...one stone.
These scraps are from my freezer.
If that grosses you out...take a couple of large onions, chopped, peeled or not, 2 heads of garlic, cut in half, chopped carrots, 2 stalks of celery, and use that instead. You want to chop them up cause the more surface area of the veggies, the more area to brown which gives more flavor, which is what we want.


text:
Drive transparent, responsible, accountable, credible and ethical
business practices in your supply chain.
Valpak's web-based Data Management Portals will increase transparency of your business's
upstream and downstream operations, helping to build a clearer picture of
performance and liabilities, and providing you with information which will help
you to make informed operational and contractual decisions.
Our flexible portals allow businesses to collect and aggregate detailed supplier
data to demonstrate:
Data Collection
Analysis and Reporting
To find out more about Valpak's unique Data Management portals please call us today on
03450 682 572 or complete our
enquiry form.


text:
For partners
We are open to mutually beneficial cooperation
For our partners, we provide special terms for connection, design special functionality, finding new business solutions..
We do not limit the number of sites at where have the calling code.
Not prohibited to sell and re-sell access to the system and earn on this.
We have developed special wholesale rates.
You pay for access to the desired number of operators
and use them on your own without violating laws of the country in which you are located.
You can find clients and get 25% of each payment of your client.
Partner reward
Partner reward is 25% of any amount of payment for both standard and wholesale tariffs and dedicated server, on all the while working with a client. Payments are made automatically once a month to the account partner in the PayPal (switch fee paid partner). Partner can fully or partially pay for access operator to the system from the accumulated percents, automatically in your account, in the payment section.
How it works
For a start partner must sign up and to contact us with a request to activate the partner interface.
Partner invites new clients using referral link, or coupon code.
Referral link can be found in your personal account in the affiliate section. Coupon code can be requested from us or you may self generate them through API.
We recommend to write meaningful messages in the forums and blogs, share the link with business friends in the where may be necessary online consult on the website.
We do not encourage spam. If the partners will be known in the application of any form of spam, we will be are forced to take action. As in the case of links and in the case of using the coupon code, the customer will install a cookie identifies it in the future like your customer, this means that if he decides to register later, the system recognizes it as your client.
When a customer to pay for the tariff, a partner will be notified by e-mail with information about the your account balance.
All the relevant information can be seen in the affiliate interface.
Privilege for customer
If a customer comes on the ref-link, them will automatically get a 14 days free access to the system (usually 7 days) on a single operator.
Partner can promise and provide support, set Code to the site, the system configuration for the client,
change the design of the chat and call buttons for website design including a set fee for this.
Coupon code to attract new customers for your service
This is an easy way to get competitive advantage,
you offer your services and as a bonus our coupon with long free access.
If a customer comes from a partner, using the coupon code,
it gets up to 14 days of free access to the system (usually 7 days) per operator.
A partner, in turn, will receive 25% of any amount in payment of the client for the duration of the client with us.
Partner may to create an individual coupon code and increase its duration.
Partners privileges
Partner can make a website and get free access to the system for attracting new customers.
This possibility will be disabled if it is found that the access is used for other purposes.
For purposes other partner can pay access to the system using a fully or partially from accrued fees, if the partner wants to pay the the tariff for the amount exceeding the accumulated deductions, the tariff can be paid out of any available existing payment method.
Earnings with wholesale tariffs
Partner buys access the required number of operators or a dedicated server, and then:
1. connects its customers to the system of earning on the difference (used for design studios and CMS);
2. connects to the system its operators and earn on consult on certain subjects;
3. connects its operators to the system to support the clients of the you business;


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Fashion Weeks, wherever they may be in the world, are a time for our favourite designers to dazzle us with their stunning new creations. Fashion Weeks are also a time when us fashion junkies get to show of our look and I love it when the cameras focus on regular girls rocking their own individual style, so here is a mini celebration of all things strictly street.
(selection of images from Stylist.com Elle.com and Style.com)
Can't wait to be part of all the street-style drama next weekend at London Fashion Weekend!
Love H x


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BOOK REVIEW: Twelve Unlikely Heroes by John MacArthur
Twelve Unlikely Heroes by John MacArthur, published by Thomas Nelson, explores the lives of some well-known and less known characters found in the scriptures. The people explored by MacArthur are Enoch, Joseph, Miriam, Gideon, Samson, Jonathan, Jonah, Esther, John the Baptist, James, Mark, and Onesimus. John MacArthur begins his book by giving a thoughtful discussion about who is truly a hero and challenging his reader to learn from true heroes, the lives of which are found in God's word.
MacArthur tells the story of each Bible hero, beautiful painting the story of how God worked in the lives of each individual. A particular favorite of mine was his story telling for life of Joseph. MacArthur gives useful insights into the actions of Joseph's brothers, as well as drawing considerations for the emotional state of Joseph, who is regularly mistreated throughout his life. MacArthur rounds out this chapter by exploring the forgiveness that Joseph is able to offer to his brothers and practical thoughts about how to have a faith like Joseph through difficulties.
The book ends with a call for a life of faith-filled obedience and the need to trust and obey, just as we read these heroes doing with their lives. MacArthur encourages his reads with these final words. "Faithful Christian living often results in persecution, not praise. But rest assured, God's promises are true. One day your faith will become sight (1 Corinthians 13:12) and your faithfulness will be rewarded (Matthew 25:21, 23). In this world, those who live by faith and walk in faithfulness are often derided and despised. But in the world to come, they will be greeted with nothing less than a hero's welcome."
Our faith is only encouraged and strengthen when we read and understand the lives of those who faithfully lived and gave their lives to the Lord. MacArthur draws our attention to a few of these faithful followers and teaches us how we can model their faith. You will enjoy reading this book and I recommend it as an assistant to your study of God's word.
*This book was provided to me free of charge from Thomas Nelson in exchange for an unbiased, honest review.


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Dive on into this prime example of what happens when you go to a lot of shows in a short period of time and then save it for a bad joke. Prepare your brains to run some linguistic laps, creatures, this is gonna be long. This post includes reviews of The Ocean (March 30), Aborted (April 1), Ramlord (April 5), and Carcass (April 10). The Dillinger review will be on Ghostcult or something, it's a mess. Why didn't I post this yesterday, you ask? Because that'd actually make sense. Now
The Ocean Collective, Scale The Summit, The Atlas Moth, & Silver Snakes @ The Sinclair
I was a tiny bit disapoointed to find that it was Scale The Summit and not The Ocean headlining, but that's all small potatoes. If only the ticket itself didn't lie and have The Ocean's name over Scale The Summit's. Blood under the bridge. Let's talk bands.
Silver Snakes was a surprising treat of an opener. They actually weren't boring like I assumed they would be, since the general structure of these kinds of shows is that you must first be bored before you can be entertained. Like having to eat a burnt steak to get a glass of OJ. But these guys, quite well cooked steak.
Respectable post-hardcore that sounds a bit like Antenna era Cave In, I dig, I dug.
The Atlas Moth is a band I honestly should probably be more into, as "Holes In The Desert" is infinitely badass in all its mountainous glory. Heavy as a titanic elephant when they want to be, yet still creating an atmosphere above all else. Maybe it was the booze running through my veins, but I did find myself enjoying it more than anticipated. Maybe I should be more positive. I'm sure these guys smoke mad weed, doe.
Positivity was certainly the word when The Ocean took the stage,since they were the only band you could really start shit to. If you pay attention to my posts on Facebook (and why would you?) you would see the massive knee scrape incurred due to being physicsfucked.
So here's how it happened: I was gettin' my thug on in the pit, someone, getting into the spirit of things (kinda) gives me a shove, naturally I fly in the direction in which the force was applied, and fell. No problem. So then I get assistance, and thinking they'll simply elevate me back to a standing position, get all spry and leap up. Unfortunately, my helpers hoisted me up pretty hard, so the excess force caused me to jump too high, and I, surprised, ended up falling directly knee-first onto the brick floor yet again. My dignity. My knee. Ow.
But yes, they played Pelagial, their newest, and possibly best, album in its entirety, with some funky video playing in the background, giving us the story of what I guess to be a woman who takes over an hour to drown while she explores the tentacled depths of er… the ocean. But yeah, it was an awesome set, of course. "Bathyalpelagic III: Disequillibriated" (try saying that once fast) was one of the highlights of the set, but I'd say Pelagial in general is just a huge highlight for their career, so it feels weird to play favourites with any song(s) on it.
Oh, and singer Loic Rosetti climbed up to the mezzanine while singing and jumped into the crowd, which I guess is a highlight too.
Bands like Scale The Summit are direct evidence that Metal is not all "guys screaming" or a wall of distortion that must be penetrated to see the complexity of the music, or a constant cannonade of pounding, warlike drums. Their sweet, almost airy take on Prog Metal —appropriately dubbed "Adventure Metal— can be both heavy and turbulent, but always expansive and inspiring.
If there was mountain climbing music for metalheads that's not Black Metal, it's this. Busting out some choice tracks from their killer new opus The Migration as well as "Redwoods", plenty of material from The Collective and I think "Age Of The Tide", or "City In The Sky". Something good, like all of their songs are, y'know?
Substance(s) consumed: A 40 of Mickey's and a tall boy of Natty Daddy. I hate myself.
Ramlord, Spinach, INTHESHIT, NSF, Radical Apathy @ Ask A Punk Because The Jig Is Up
I may have the order of bands for this particular show wrong, but fuck it.
I love how DIY venues get so packed you technically miss bands because you're standing in the hallway looking into the room due to the sheer volume of people. Such was the reason why I missed Radical Apathy, sorta, but that's okay, because this marks the third time I've been in their presence. And it's sexual. Check it if you're into 80s hardcore with an anarcho streak of red in its mohawk. Think Void speed with a little Conflict and female vocals, and you have a rough approximation of their sound.
Struth's first set of three, so his arms had yet to fall off.
Next up was (I think) INTHESHIT, was Struth's second set of the night, and John Belmonte's first. Their sound was fittingly manic for the claustrophobic setting in which it took place. Shredding riffs, schizo vocals, nonstop artillery drums, and a lot of instruments very sad to be instruments, because they were getting banged on roughly for our ears' enjoyment.
Nuclear Special Forces celebrated bassist Jerome's birthday the only way they knew how: getting drunk and wearing their own shirts, which have this on it:
Available in sizes Sexy and Awesome.
Nuclear Special forces just get better with each viewing. Here was the first place I saw them, and now look how they've changed. Well, I suppose they haven't changed a goddamn thing, now that I think about it, except that they no longer play their cover of "City Baby Attacked By Rats". But other than that, you know you'll get a good time delivered straight to your face. If you're sober during an NSF set, you're probably not old enough to drink yet and you should work on that. And if you're not almost knocking over their gear, you should be, because standing still isn't what you do in a confined place when loud music about hating people is playing. For fans of J-punk like Kuro and the cheeky powerviolent swaggerings of Charles Bronson or Fuck On The Beach. Eric Struth set number 3 and John Belmonte set number 2, because big boys need love too.
Next up were Spinach, serving up a healthy helping of Fastcore. Shorter, faster, and ostensibly louder than my mom's gospel albums, they are highly reminiscent of Backslider, and of course, the almighty Infest. Songs so short, Calhoun Tubbs must've given them lessons. Good times, though, can't get enough Spinach in your musical diet, especially since it's this gnarly.
Ah, Ramlord. Now off the relentless new album cycle and back to playing golden oldies and even their amazing new track, "The Breaking Of the Swans † The Eulogy Of The Crows" from their split with Nuclear Devastation. Time to git it, nigga: First time in so long I've heard "Total Doom" live, and first time in general seeing "Affliction Of Clairvoyance" live, which is my fave track. Twostep and pitcross for days.
Don't get me wrong when I rejoice at the sidelining of the new opus, Crippled Minds rules, peep the review and then go listen if you haven't already, dude. The last few times I've seen them have been mostly in support of the new album, so multiple sets consisting entirely of it will make my old soul yearn for the more familiar sounds. Glad to see the triumphant return of the old Ram, with a solemn eye to the future as the cult grows anew.
Substance(s) Consumed: A 40 of Colt 45, and I forget what beers after that, but I was turnt, don't worry.
Aborted, Pyrexia, Forced Asphyxiation, and Totality @ Middle East Upstairs
April Foolin' up in here with Totality, a band I can't get into (sorry) and Forced Asphyxiation, who I enjoy but can't see myself becoming a huge fan of. Death Metal by numbers, perhaps, but everybody needs a hobby, and some peoples' hobby is writing brutal music, so I say let 'em, they ain't hurtin' nobody. Yet.
Pyrexia, wow. That logo reminds me of a lot of nights spent in front of a bone Compaq computer printing out fake fliers for bands I idolised when I was 15. Someone couldn't doodle them something drippy or splattery for appearance's sake? After all, they do play slamming death metal with some bro-ish breakdowns, so they'd certainly be well off with a logo that looked like this:
Rather than Morpheus (or should I say "Morphevs"?), a font that calls to mind a lot more cheesy images of Goffick dating sites like vampirefreaks than it does pig squeals and XXXL shirt wearing bouncy slamdowns. Yes, I knowvampirefreaks not a dating site, I'm internet humoring. It should be, though.
See how I just took a huge diversion and talked about their logo instead of their music? Never do that, kids. It makes you look like a bad reviewer. That, and not posting things until like weeks later, but we'll solve these problems one at a time.
Anyway, Pyrexia was aight, nothing to write the U.N. about. Aborted on the other hand has music like WMDs for your ears. I don't know how long they've been going with a uniformed look, which comes down to black dress shirts with patches on them that bear an odd insignia that I don't know the meaning of and could probably research, but nobody reads this anyway so why bother. Carrots.
I'm glad I finally got to see Aborted after like fuckin' years of missing them at every turn. Hell, I've seen his side band System Divide, and they were pretty cool, but this is Aborted, dawg. If you're not moshing during the final breakdown(s) of "The Saw And The Carnage Done", consider yourself a fuck nigga. Sadly since Aborted does have a lot of albums and I haven't paid attention to them all equally (Strychnine.213 is my fave, fight me), I felt I was unable to fully appreciate every gore soaked moment as well as I would have if I'd at least known the structures of most of the songs. And no "Dead Wreckoning", aw.
Substance(s) Consumed: I think I was stoned, but I don't remember, ha.
The Decibel Tour 2014: Carcass, The Black Dahlia Murder, Gorguts and Noisem @ The Paradise Rock Club
I can say I've seen Carcass twice in the span of a year. Word.
Opening this fest up right were Baltimore's youngest of youngsters in Noisem, and when I say 'youngsters', I mean these kids are actually kids.
Their oldest member probably still can't drink legally, if I'm going purely by appearances. Don't let their baby faces fool you, however, because these guys make some pretty nasty music for freaks whose hobby is mistreating their neck muscles. From the nods to Slayer, Death Angel and the like in their thrashier riffage, to the robust canned chaos of drumwork reminiscent of old death/grind Repulsion and older Morbid Angel, and even some modern hardcore influence in the form of the occasional breakdown, there's a lot to work with, and it's good. These lads are barfing out something to be interested in, and will talk to you as if they didn't just play in a band on a stage for $38 a (severed) head.
Next were the ancient vvizards in Gorguts, who I've honestly not heard a terrible lot of material from. I've heard Obscura, had a love/confused relationship with it for a while (I eventually decided to make it my occasional fuck buddy), and I've heard some of The Erosion Of Sanity, which was more straightforward, at the cost of diversity. So with this and having checked a song or two from their newest opus of non-Euclidean dissonance, Colored Sands, I saw Gorguts. And while I was impressed, I feel as though I wasn't familiar with enough material to get the most out of it.
Indeed, when listening to a band that chops and screws music just to reassemble it artfully disfigured, it's probably best to know what to expect first, otherwise you'll just be standing there thinking "This is cool and I dig it, but I'm still lost". It's kinda like reading an article on neuroscience, but with riffs. The vocals also seemed kinda iffy, but one doesn't really focus on the vocals in music like this, which are more a vehicle for concept rather than meant to wow us, I guess. Luc Lemay does do some pretty interesting things with his guitar, though, that much I can say with certainty. I feel as though they got robbed, having such a short set, but it's all a popularity contest, and The Black Dahlia Murder played Warped, so.
It's almost unbelievable that this marks only the second time I've seen The Black Dahlia Murder. All other times I've missed them for dumb reasons or someshit, so I live with great shame on my head. I've not contemporised myself yet, meaning I'm still in the dark about how great Everblack is, even though Ritual was one of my top albums of 2011, and all their other albums hold a special place in my heart, so the fact that I haven't listened yet means I should be beaten. I mean, let's face it, they're fucken great, what with being total stoner/drunkard goofball fucks —watching the Majesty DVD will make you smart— and yet still writing some of the catchiest and still legit and epic melodic Death Metal this side of Sweden is a testament to their commitment to the music.
The setlist consisted of, you'd imagine, new material, and songs from the more recent albums, these being Nocturnal, Deflorate, and the mighty Ritual. I suppose they won't be going as far as even Miasma for a little while, but we'll just have to deal. Much like I have to deal with my tattooless belly.
Need context? Well, lemme tell ya a story, kids.
So one day, after a heavy metal concert, the singer of one of the music groups, named The Black Dahlia Murder (kids and their rock'n'roll unsolved crime fascination) was drunk and hungry, so he proceeded to order one of the most obscene displays of American restauranteuring that isn't just combining two deep fried and incompatibly heart-breaking foods. No, it was a sea, an ocean, a vast infinitude of french fries, complete with a hot dog and a cheeseburger. I bet even the Krispy Kreme donut would quiver in its calories seeing all that shit on a single plate. So I forget how we got to comparing belly tattoos —or in my case, lack thereof—, but my dad started it. Members of Gorguts and Noisem also bore witness to the silliness, so there's a conversation starter if you read this and think it's worth bringing up. You won't. But Trevor likes my Despise You shirt so I win the game anyway, loser.
Oh, and Carcass played, it was awesome yet again. Their first Boston show in 20 years? Welcome back, lobsterback tea slurpin' limey loo using Brit bastards.
If you want to get technical —and this is the show for it—, I suppose you can say this is half of Carcass, and two guys who are skilled enough to pretend that they're Ken Owen and Michael Amott, but nonetheless, a phenomenal outpouring of death metal the way people have grown to love it. From the familiar clamor of "Symphonies Of Sickness", the so-sicc-you'll-throw-up "Exhume To Consume", the catchy bounce of "Corporal Jigsore Quandary", the tasty "Blind Bleeding The Blind" and some new sounds from the new album, Surgical Steel, which kinda sound like a continuation of what they were doing on Necroticism, which means it's good, if not derivative, though we're just happy Carcass exists again.
In addition to being one of the granddads of Grind, Jeff Walker's also a funny guy. I'd probably be willing to see him in a shitty comedy club somewhere for £5 or whatever, because this guy's got jokes. He threatened the crowd with Swansong, and the band even went so far as to tease us with a graphic of that weird patchyface monster and the opening bars, complete with Walker telling the crowd to prevent people from escaping. By the time the first verse was to kick in, they switched into "Keep Rotting In The Free World", I think, which was actually a bummer for me, because "Black Star" is actually one of my jamz, yo.
Jeff's also short. Like, really short. And he sounds like a leprechaun. He was built to blast.
Yes, that is my default facial expression for every picture now. No, that is not true, because then how would I have a LinkedIn account? Ha, just kidding, I barely use it. What's responsibility?
Substance(s) Consumed: Spinach.
You've reached the finish line. You're brave. Were you expecting something cool for reading all those words to the end? Fine.
But yeah, keep reading. Real books, not this drivel.


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Missouri state troopers' pay increases to its standard level
JEFFERSON CITY - Some Missouri state troopers have invested years into their career. The Missouri State Troopers Association said some of their paychecks are now starting to show for it.
The agency is currently in the process of a pay adjustment. Executive director, Ken Sears, said the adjustment is not necessarily the same as a pay increase.
"This next phase isn't going to be for everybody on the patrol. It'll be a pay raise for those who are still not up to where they're supposed to be on the grid," Sears said.
Their pay system is set up on an X and Y grid system. The Y stands for the position/rankings, and the X stands for how many years of service they've provided. The combination of the two determines how much each person will be making.
Sears said in the last few years, Missouri's troopers' salaries have not been in line with the set standard.
"We've got to the point where our years of services wasn't being funded," Sears said. "In the past couple years, and hopefully this year we'll have it totally caught up".
Sears said the troopers who've spent 10 to 15 years are primarily the ones who have not been receiving adequate pay for the time, and who will be most affected by this adjustment. The pay for troopers in this category range from $2,100 to $2,600 semi-monthly.
He said the workers with seniority have already been caught up, along with the ones just starting up to about the 8th or 9th year.
Their semi-monthly base rates range from about $2,400 to $3,200 for workers with more than 15 years of service, and $1,800 to $2,300 with two to eight years of service depending on ranks.
He said the adjustment may allow all positions in Missouri to finally be competitive with surrounding states.
"Go back ten years ago or so, MIssouri was way behind," Sears said. "We were losing people to other agencies and not getting applicants".
Sears said there's no law saying every state's pay rate has to be competitive, but there is a law saying that the data must be presented to the appropriate legislative bodies.
He said they've received a lot of cooperation from the governor and both the house and the senate in order to complete this pay adjustment for the rest of the troopers. The next phase consists of the governor putting together his recommendations and presenting them to all the senate and house budget committees.
"We've had very good cooperation along all the legislative process, and hopefully that will continue," Sears said.
He said they plan to move onto the next phase next month.


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The Georgia Tech Procurement Card (PCard) is a Visa purchasing card that may be used by Institute employees for authorized business purchases within the delegated authority limit. The Pcard is a tool for purchases of non-equipment, business related items under the cardholder's single transaction limit in the approved PCard Plan (for vendors who are not currently setup in BuzzMart or for vendors with whom we expect to only make one purchase).Effective, April 1, 2017, the State of Georgia PCard Policy changed which requires all State Agencies participating in the Card Program to have an approved PCard Plan. This PCard Plan was signed off by the University President and the University Chief Financial Officer (Chief Business Officer) and approved by the Department of Administrative Services in conjunction with the Office of Planning and Budgeting at the State level. Cardholders must follow State of Georgia (DOAS), Board of Regents (BOR), and Georgia Tech purchasing policies and strive to obtain the maximum ultimate value for each dollar of expenditure. Additionally, Institute employees and officials assigned PCard responsibilities should familiarize themselves with the provisions of public law governing PCards to include Title 50, Chapter 5, Article 3 of the O.C.G.A. at:
Enter 50-5-83 in the search box and click Search
To view the text click on: § 50-5-83. Definitions; requirements for state purchasing card program
The use of the card is beneficial to the individual purchaser, the purchaser's department, the Institute, and the suppliers. It simplifies the purchasing and payment process and expedites receipt of goods. The PCard provides significant cost savings to Georgia Tech while providing electronic control and accountability. Any vendor that accepts Visa will accept the PCard.
General Guidelines
The purpose of this PCard Policy Manual is to provide Institute guidelines for the issuance and use of the PCard along with instructions for reconciliation and review of transactions. The Manual will be reviewed for adequacy by the Institute's PCard Program Manager at least annually.
General Information & Definitions
Approver - The non-subordinate employee designated by the unit to review and verify cardholder transactions.
Billing Address - The campus billing address of the individual cardholder. Address should include mail code. The Billing Address may be requested by vendors for order verification.
Procurement and Business Services – The Georgia Tech organization responsible for the overall administration of the PCard Program.
Billing Date (Bank Posted Date) – The date the vendor transmits your purchase information to the bank for posting to your PCard account (Not necessarily the date you made the purchase). Visa's vendor contract requires account billing upon shipment of an order.
Billing Phone Number - The campus phone number of cardholder. May be requested by vendors for order verification.
Cardholder - Employee who has been issued a PCard.
Card Issuer - Bank of America, the bank issuing Georgia Tech's PCard.
Concur – Web based software that contains the online monthly company billed statement. Statements are approved via automated approval workflows. Project redistributions and account itemizations are completed in Concur and documentation is uploaded to each transaction that posts.
Cycle Cutoff - The date the monthly statement is issued, the 27th of each month
Department Head - For purposes of these instructions refers to the VP, Dean, Director, or Department Head with budget authority for unit. This authority cannot be delegated.
Director of Purchasing – Responsible for the acquisition of goods and services at Georgia Tech. Serves as the Institute's primary liaison with the Georgia Department of Administrative Services (DOAS).
Employee Agreement Form - The written agreement between Georgia Tech and the cardholder.
Forms and Manuals – Forms and user manuals are available online at the Procurement and Business Services website at www.procurement.gatech.edu . Revisions to the forms and manuals may be frequent. All employees should check the website often for current versions.
The Manual - Refers to this instruction booklet.
PCard Administration – Procurement and Business Services unit that manages the day-to-day operations of the Institute's PCard Program.
PCard Program Manager - Procurement and Business Services representative responsible for PCard program. Serves as the Institute's official liaison with State Cards Program Manager.
PCard Administrator – Procurement and Business Services representative that assists PCard Program Manager administer PCard program.
PCard Coordinators - Department representatives responsible for facilitating the Procurement Card Program within their departments.
PCard Helpdesk – PCard Administration point of contact to assist with questions/concerns, available via phone at 404-385-5578 or e-mail at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Safeguarding of the Institute's Assets
- Rebates or refunds from vendors shall be the property of the Institute and shall be paid promptly into the Institute's accounts.
- Criminal and consumer credit checks will be performed in accordance with BOR and DOAS policy. The Institute will ensure that the results of background checks are provided the privacy protections required by law.
- New cardholders, are required to have criminal and consumer credit checks prior to being issued a PCard. Additionally, credit checks must be done again at the time of card renewal.
- Cardholders will be required to personally reimburse the Institute for purchases made that are not appropriately documented. Approving officials may be required to reimburse the Institute if the approving official approved the purchase.
- Habitual loss of receipts/documentation may require personal reimbursement by the cardholder and/or approver and may also result in termination of the PCard.
- Items of value purchased for distribution to students are allowed only in support of the educational objectives of the Institute. Additionally, the cardholder must maintain sufficient documentation to identify the individual receiving an item. The requirement to track individual recipients does not apply to items of de minimis value.
Departments must ensure that PCards are promptly cancelled upon employee transfer or termination.
PCard purchases can only be shipping to GT addresses. Items shipped to non-GT locations must have written approval from the cardholder's supervisor and the PCard Administrator.
Card Issuance
PCards may be issued to "permanent, regular-status" employees only. No student employees, affiliates or Tech Temps may be issued cards. Only one card is allowed per employee.
Authorization - A PCard Request Form is completed by/for the employee and then signed by Department Head to indicate authorization, cardholder spending limits, and cost allocation information. Spending limits should be determined based on the cardholder's job responsibilities, anticipated card usage levels, historical spending patterns, and budget limitations. The completed form with the required signatures is submitted to PCard Administration by the PCard Coordinator. After all background checks have been verified, the request will then be reviewed and approved by the CFO. Upon approval by the CFO, the PCard Administrator will order the card from the bank and maintain the form in a cardholder file.
- Distribution – PCard Administration will notify the cardholder and appropriate PCard Coordinator when the card has been received. Cards will be distributed to employees after completion of appropriate background checks, cardholder training and submission of the signed Employee Agreement Form.
- PCard Administration will review cardholder accounts annually to identify and close unused or low-usage cards for which there is no longer a business need.
Card Limits
Since Georgia Tech, not the individual employee, will pay for the purchases made with the card, additional controls have been added to the card accounts. These limits are imposed at the point of sale when the card is swiped.
- Institute Limits – The PCard may be used for purchases not to exceed the cardholder's single transaction or cycle limit in the PCard Plan. The cardholder's Department Head working with the PCard Coordinator may identify additional limits based on card usage and budget limitations. These limits should be noted on the approved Request Form and kept in the cardholder's file.
- Increased Limit PCards may be used by department buyers and other specifically designated and pre-approved cardholders for purchases requiring increased limits on an as needed basis. Requests for transaction increased limits must be approved by the Department Head and submitted to the PCard Program Administrator for review and approval. The PCard Program Administrator will coordinate with the State Cards Program Manager when an exception to State PCard Policy is required. Increased Limit cards may not be used to circumvent the State's no-bid limit.
- Increased Limit PCards may be used by department buyers and other specifically designated and pre-approved cardholders for purchases requiring increased limits on an as needed basis. Requests for transaction increased limits must be approved by the Department Head and submitted to the PCard Program Administrator for review and approval. The PCard Program Administrator will coordinate with the State Cards Program Manager when an exception to State PCard Policy is required. Increased Limit cards may not be used to circumvent the State's no-bid limit.
- Cardholder Spending Limits – Adjustable limits per card are:
- Dollar amount limit per transaction
- Dollar amount limit per cycle (month)
- Changes to Limits - Requests for changes to card limits should be submitted on the "Limit Change Request" form by the Department Head or PCard Coordinator via email to PCard Administration. Change requests will be kept in the cardholder's file. Additional information can be found at the link to PCard Requisition Instructions and Exceptions for the requisition process and limit increases. The form is available online in the Forms section of the Business Services website at:
- Merchant Activity Type Limits - Specific types of businesses identified by a Merchant Category Code (MCC) are restricted on the card. If you have difficulty using your card with any particular vendor, please contact your department PCard Coordinator or the PCard Help Desk.
- Policy - In addition to the limits that are controlled at the point of sale by the card, Georgia Tech limits the use of the card through policy. The card may be used only for purchases that are made under delegated authority or items exempt from review and approval by the Purchasing Department.
Authorized Uses of PCards
All purchases made with a PCard must be for official Institute business. Cardholders and approving officials are designated as Institute purchasing agents and are subject to the provisions of O.C.G.A. § 45-10-1 et.seq. (State Employee Code of Ethics, Conflicts of Interest, etc.).
The PCard may be used for:
- Equipment: Single units under the cardholder's single transaction limit Equipment over $3000 (single unit) is considered a capital asset and should be purchased via Buzzmart.
- Supplies, Materials, and Services may be purchased for less than the cardholder's single transaction limit. The Institute will monitor activity for purchases for the same supplies, materials, or services from the same vendor so as not to exceed $9,999.99 per year unless competitively procured as detailed in Georgia Tech, DOAS regulations and BOR policies and procedures. Supplies and materials purchased may also include items purchased for resale.
- Purchases from Statewide and Agency Contracts are permitted.
- Conference Registration Fees for Institute personnel on official Institute business with the requirement that employees not request reimbursement for meals paid with the conference registration fees.
- Departments must ensure that conference registration fees for employees paid pursuant to this section are recorded as required by Institute Travel Regulations. Departments should require employees to capture the aforementioned registration expenses on the employee's travel expense statement. Care should be taken to ensure that the employee clearly identifies those items paid with the PCard versus those items requiring reimbursement.
- Student food, student travel, and food for instructional uses is permitted as outlined in the Institute Business and Finance Manual (BFM) Sections 126.96.36.199 and 6.16 subject to the documentation requirements outlined in this policy. Additionally, food purchased for sponsored research use as approved by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) is permitted.
- Employee food may be purchased with a PCard only when an employee is participating in a Group Meal or an on-campus academic program/on-campus sanctioned event as described in BFM Section 126.96.36.199. Employees participating in off-campus events or in a travel status must request reimbursement.
- Repairs and maintenance are authorized for Institute vehicles. All costs associated with vehicle repair and maintenance must be reported in accordance with DOAS fleet management regulations using the Maximo system.
Note: Exceptions may be granted by the PCard Manager.
Prohibited Uses of PCards
The PCard may not be used for:
- Personal items. The use of the PCard for personal expenditures is strictly prohibited. Cardholders who violate this rule must reimburse these funds and, if the violation is determined to be intentional, may be subject to both losses of employment and criminal penalties.
- Employee Travel expenses (lodging, transportation, meals).
Entertainment expenses (must be done as a reimbursement through the Foundation or GTRC).
- Alcoholic beverages or tobacco products.
- Motor vehicle fuel (except for authorized rental vehicles for official student program group travel).
- Professional services as listed in BOR Business Procedures Manual (BPM) Section 3.1.2 including certified public accountancy, architecture, professional engineering, doctors & registered nurses, lawyers, and veterinary medicine.
- Gift cards, funding the BuzzCard, stored value cards, prepaid cards, calling cards, gift certificates, or other cash equivalent items.
- Food except as authorized under BFM Section 188.8.131.52.(PCard cannot be used for purchases of bottled water, beverage/coffee service, snacks, or entertainment)
- Cash advances, cash refunds, or "store credit."
- Memberships and/or fees to wholesale shopping clubs or "warehouse type" retailers.(e.g. Sam's, Costco, Amazon Prime)
- Agency (funds held on deposit) or affiliated organization expenditures except as permitted for Study Abroad Programs as detailed in BPM Section 21.4.
Purchases made from units of the Institute. No internal Institute charges are allowed on the PCard - this includes, but is not limited to, OIT printing services, Library, and Parking. Please note: The PCard may be used for official Institute business at outsourced businesses including the GT Bookstore, VWR, and Sodexho.
- Split purchases. Dividing one purchase into two or more to circumvent the single transaction limits and procurement requirements previously enumerated is not allowed.(more than one transaction to the same vendor on the same day which exceeds the single transaction limit of the cardholder)
- Sales tax. Sales tax should not be paid for purchases made from vendors within the State of Georgia using institutional funds. Institutional funds used to further institutional business purposes are not subject to sales tax as outlined in O.C.G.A. § 48-8-3 (8). Sales tax may be paid when required for vendors out of state.
- Please reference the Georgia Tech Reference Guide for PCard allowable and unallowable purchases found on the PCard page of the Procurement and Business Services website.
Limitations on Vendors (including high risk vendors)
- Georgia Tech does not encourage the use of high risk vendors such as PayPal. If no other form of payment is accepted by the vendor, then the PCard High Risk Vendor Purchase Authorization Form (high risk vendors are listed on the form) must be completed, signed, and approved prior to each purchase and appended with the receipt as part of the accountable documentation for the PCard Statement. Violations of policy will be evaluated as noted in the Violations of Policy section of this policy (p.15).
- Cardholder must not make PCard purchases from vendors where the cardholder has a financial interest.
- Cardholder must not accept any gift or gratuity from any source when it is offered, or appears to be offered, to influence your decision-making regarding PCard purchases.
Cost Allocation
Each card will be assigned a default project ID, as identified on the PCard Request Form, to which transactions will be automatically charged. Charges must be redistributed to the appropriate general ledger expense account, as well as the appropriate Project ID if necessary, through the Institute's web based PCard approval system, Concur. PCard transactions are loaded to Concur daily by the bank and remain available for review and redistribution for 10 calendar days before being posted to the General Ledger (GL). Changes identified after the transactions are initially posted to the GL may be accomplished by completing a CPC (Campus PCard) journal entry in the General Ledger, effective June 28, 2017.
Department PCard Coordinators are required to complete the annual PCard Training and Certification online training tutorial. Cardholders are required to complete the "PCard Cardholder Training & Certification" online training tutorial prior to receiving a card.
Cardholders are required to re-certify annually. Failure to re-certify will result in card suspension until the re-certification is completed.
Departments must ensure that Approvers complete the "PCard Cardholder Training & Certification" online training tutorial initially and annually thereafter.
Departments are responsible for ensuring Cardholders and Approvers are trained in internal departmental PCard policies and procedures.
Departments should ensure that non-procurement personnel are acquainted with small value purchase procedures.
Concur Company Billed Statements and the redistribution system training are available online.
Employee Agreement Form
Before being issued a PCard, a completed Employee Agreement Form, signed by the employee and Department Head must be submitted to Business Services. By signing the form, the employee acknowledges:
- Receipt of training and understanding of the regulations for use and protection of card.
- Understanding of responsibilities in reconciliation process and billing disputes.
- Understanding and acceptance of consequences for PCard violations.
Department Responsibilities
- Ultimate responsibility for a department's program resides with the Department Head.
- Department Head may delegate operational responsibility to a PCard Coordinator, but delegation does not relieve the Department Head of program responsibility. This delegation of responsibility does not include the approval of new card requests.
- Designate unit program officials: Coordinators, Approvers, Cardholders
- Ensure internal procedures are in accordance with established Institute policy. Your department procedures may be more restrictive than Georgia Tech Policy but not less restrictive.
- Monitor department program for compliance – identify and address policy violations.
- Maintain written list of Approvers that identifies the Cardholders assigned to each.
- Establish coordination procedures between Cardholders, Approvers, and Coordinators to ensure timely reconciliation and submission of bank statements and accountable documentation.
- Establish redistribution procedures to ensure expenses are charged to the appropriate fund.
- Develop procedures to ensure the responsible budget holder is required to verify charges to sponsored accounts are appropriate.
- Ensure documentation is retained in accordance with Institute policy.(A paper copy of the receipts is required to be kept for 1 year per DOAS Policy)
- Re-evaluate transaction and monthly (cycle) spending limits periodically.
- Review the ongoing business need for cards issued within the department annually.
Approver Responsibilities
There are two types of approvers for PCard Transactions
1. Requisition Approvers:
- Requisition approvers review and sign off on requisitions prior to the purchase being made.Two approvers are required for the PCard requisition. Both signatures must be obtained prior to the purchase being made unless the purchase is made under and using the terms prescribed in an exemption approved by DOAS.Instructions and Exceptions can be found at the Procurement and Business Services website.
2. Concur Approvers:
Review and verify assigned cardholder PCard purchases.
Validate and attest that the report and the purchase receipts have been reviewed and are in compliance with Georgia Tech Policy.
Verify completeness of PCard documentation including business purpose and detailed receipts.
Ensure the requisition forms have been reviewed and are in compliance with Georgia Tech Policy.
Complete the review by approving the report.
Cardholder Responsibilities
Georgia Tech follows the doctrine that the use of and responsibility for PCard procurements rest with the cardholder (employee). The cardholder is accountable for all transactions on their card. To reinforce the doctrine of cardholder accountability with departmental oversight of the PCard:
- The card is to be under the control of the cardholder.
- Card-sharing is prohibited. Cardholders may not lend their card or card number to anyone.
- Use of the card as a "departmental" or "checkout" card is prohibited.
- All cardholders are required to have training in the use of a PCard. Training deals with both card use and with delegated procurement responsibilities.
- PCard training specifically reiterates the cardholder's responsibility and consequences of card misuse.
- PCard Coordinators are required to attend training on program specifics and requirements of departmental oversight on cardholder's PCard procurements.
- Georgia Tech has implemented a web based interface, Concur, that:
- Allows cardholders or delegates the ability to review PCard charges and reallocate project numbers and general ledger expense account numbers in near real time.
- Allows cardholders and delegates to receive an email notification when a charge has been posted to their PCard account.
- Provides online management reporting capability on all PCard activity. Purchases may be tracked by unit, cardholder, merchant, project ID, and account number.
Card Security
The cardholder should use basic security measures, as outlined below, to prevent unauthorized use and limit the potential for fraud.
- Sign the card as soon as you receive it.
- Always keep PCards and account numbers in a secure place.
- Safeguard the PCard as you would your personal credit card.
- Be aware of your surroundings when using the card.
- Monitor card activity in Concur
Reconcile and submit monthly statements in a timely manner.
Lost or Stolen Cards
- Lost, stolen, or fraudulently used PCards must be reported to the Bank of America at 1-888-449-2273 as soon as possible after of discovering the loss, theft, or fraudulent use. The cardholder's approving official and the PCard Coordinator must also be notified. Evidence of fraudulent use may be requested to include transaction detail. Lost or stolen cards require card cancellation. Failure to report the loss, theft, or fraudulent use of the PCard may result in increased financial loss to the institution.
- The PCard Coordinator has the responsibility for communicating the information to PCard Administration.
Surrendering the PCard
- The card is the property of State of Georgia. The cardholder is to surrender the card to the PCard Coordinator upon request, retirement, termination, or transfer to another department.
- The PCard Coordinator should destroy (cut up) the card and notify PCard Administration via email to cancel the card.
Documentation Requirements
Unless covered by an approved exception, every purchase requires two prior approvals prior to purchase. These prior approvals must be documented via a requisition form designated by Procurement and Business Services. If the purchase is approved, the cardholder may make the purchase. The signed requisition form must be appended to the receipt image prior to the submission of the statement for approval.
For each transaction, accountable documentation (i.e. a sales draft or receipt) must be obtained as proof of purchase. This documentation will later be used to verify the purchases shown on the cardholder online statement in Concur. The documentation must contain line item description and line item pricing for the purchase. The documentation should include:
- Vendor name
- Transaction amount
- Date of the purchase
- Itemized list of items purchased
- Other information as required by the department
If a sales draft or receipt does not provide a description, the cardholder should write the description on the document. For items such as subscriptions and registrations, where a receipt is not normally generated by the merchant, a copy of the ordering document may be used so long as it contains a description and price. Copies or facsimiles of the original receipt may be acceptable if the original is not available.
If the documentation for a transaction has been lost, it is the cardholder's responsibility to obtain a duplicate from the vendor. If a duplicate cannot be obtained, the cardholder should complete the PCard Receipt Replacement Form for to serve as the receipt. The PCard Receipt Replacement Form should contain the itemized information for the transaction, as listed above, and describe the cardholder's attempt to obtain a duplicate from the vendor. PCard Receipt Replacement Forms may only be used on an exception basis. Excessive use of the form (defined as more than three times in one fiscal year), may result in suspension of card privileges.
Receipts are attached to each transaction in Concur by uploading the receipt into Concur and attaching to the transaction. If the Cardholder has the Concur Mobile App installed on their phone, they can take a picture of the receipt and it will be available in the receipt store to attach to each transaction.
Maintaining PCard Documentation
Documentation will be retained in accordance with records retention and fund requirements. For transactions posted on or after October 28th, 2017, this documentation will be housed in Concur and/or in Georgia Tech's Imaging system. For transactions prior to 28th October 2016, statements with documentation must be kept by the Department.
- Original receipts must be kept by the cardholder or department for 1 year per DOAS Policy (rolling 12 months).
- The documentation must be made readily available for review/audit if requested.
Using the PCard - Making the Purchase
The PCard can be used to make purchases over the counter, by mail, by fax, by telephone, or by Internet at any vendor that accepts Visa. The following procedures should be followed for PCard purchases.
Obtain Best Value
When accepting a PCard, the cardholder becomes an authorized purchaser for the Institute with specific responsibilities for expending public funds. The cardholder should ensure the purchase is appropriate and in accordance with all Institute and State rules and regulations. Additionally, PCard purchases must comply with requirements of the Georgia Procurement Manual concerning Order of Precedence and Competitive Bidding. When purchasing goods or services, the order of precedence that should be followed in selecting the appropriate vendor is: (1) Statewide Mandatory Contracts, (2) GT Agency Contracts, (3) Georgia Correctional or Georgia Enterprises, and then (4) Statewide Convenience Contracts and the open market.
After verifying the item is not available on a Statewide or Agency contract, the cardholder must utilize lowest cost based on requirements, quality, and availability to obtain the maximum value of each dollar expended.
Vary the suppliers to give fair treatment to all suppliers and to assure that the price obtained is reasonable. Transactions you make may be on behalf of Federal sponsors. Purchasing on behalf of government clients requires special sensitivity on the part of the purchaser to obtaining fair and reasonable prices, spreading purchases among many suppliers including small, small-disadvantaged, and women-owned businesses, and adhering to strict ethical conduct.
Sales Tax
When using the PCard, the cardholder should inform the vendor that the purchase is for official State of Georgia purposes, and therefore, may not be subject to Georgia state or local sales tax. If requested by the vendor, cardholders must present an "AP - Sales & Use Tax Certificate of Exemption / Georgia Form". The form is available online in the Forms section of the Business Services website at: http://www.procurement.gatech.edu
If sales tax is erroneously charged by the vendor, cardholders should make every effort to obtain a credit directly from the vendor. Documentation of attempts to obtain credits should be maintained with the transaction receipt by appending to the receipt. Please note: Sales tax may not be Disputed through the bank.
Making the Purchase - Over the Counter
- Verify that supplier accepts the Visa. (Note: If not and it is a supplier you will need for future purchases, notify PCard Administration.)
- Provide the PCard for payment.
- Inform the clerk that the purchase is for official State of Georgia purposes, and therefore, exempt from state and local sales tax. The PCard indicates sales tax exemption, but cardholder should verify that clerk does not charge sales tax.
- Verify the dollar amount is correct and no sales tax has been included, then sign the sales draft.
- Retain your copy of the sales draft and receipt. If the copy does not provide a description of item(s) being purchased, the cardholder should write the description on sales draft or receipt.
- Follow PCard transaction/documentation process established by the department.
Making Purchase - Mail, Fax, Telephone, or Internet Orders
- Provide supplier with requested card information.
- Inform supplier that the purchase is for official State of Georgia purposes, and therefore, exempt from state and local sales tax.
Give supplier detailed shipping instructions. It is recommended that you have the goods shipped directly to your campus address (this would normally be the cardholder's Billing Address). Please note: Goods should be shipped to official Georgia Tech business addresses only. Occasionally, researchers will be in the field at a sponsor's site and will need the goods shipped to that location or the location specified, (never a home address). Shipments to an address other than a campus Georgia Tech address must be approved by PCard administration via email from the PCard Coordinator, with the cardholder's supervisor's approval included. This documentation should be appended to the receipt as accountable documentation.
- Retain documentation for purchase. Acceptable documentation includes: a copy of order form, copy of catalog page showing cost, or email/faxed order confirmation showing price along with packing slip, print out of the online order form, print out of the online order confirmation, or a print out of the e-mail confirmation.
Returning Purchases Made With PCard
If you determine that the material is defective or incorrect, notify the supplier that the item needs to be returned and request an address to ship to, and a Return Authorization Number. Request that the supplier process a credit transaction through the Card. Document that goods have been returned for credit and communicate information through proper channels within unit. Ensure that the credit appears on the next monthly statement. If not, process the charge as a Disputed Transaction.
It is a good practice to keep original boxes, containers, and special packaging until you are certain you are going to keep the goods. Some items must be returned in the original packaging.
Disputed Transactions
It is the cardholder's responsibility to resolve discrepancies and ensure credits are received. When a cardholder discovers an incorrect amount has been charged for goods or services received, or a questionable purchase or transaction appears on a cardholder's monthly statement, the cardholder must immediately seek to resolve the problem with the vendor. Any communications should be documented and the documentation including dates, persons involved, and a brief description of the problem should be either appended to the receipt or appended to the PCard Dispute Form.
If the cardholder is unable to resolve the problem with the vendor, a PCard Dispute Form should be completed and faxed directly to Bank of America at the fax number on the form. The PCard Coordinator should be notified of the dispute and a copy of the dispute form should be appended to the monthly statement. The cardholder should check the following month's statement to ensure that credit was received. Please note: Disputes must be submitted within 60 days of the statement date.
Reconciling PCard Monthly Statement
A monthly online statement will be generated by Concur once transactions have occurred on the PCard. As transactions post to the online statement, the cardholder should review the transactions and attach receipts to the transactions. If the cardholder believes a transaction listed on the statement is incorrect, then procedures outlined in the Disputed Transactions section should be followed.
The online statement can be submitted 3 full days after the 27th of the month, once all transactions have the business purpose included, all receipts are attached and any unassigned transactions have been assigned to a GL account. In no instance can the cardholder and approver be the same person. Concur will move the statement in the automated workflow to the designated approver for the Cardholder.
Cardholders should submit the monthly PCard statement, to their Approver by the 10th of the month following the statement close month (i.e. The statement that closed on March 27th must be submitted by the 10th of April). The Approvers' verification process and report submission should be completed 15 days after the cardholder submits. Online Statement processing should be completed within 30 days (by the time a new statement cycle begins). In no instance should a cardholder be allowed to approve for their own card.
Cardholder's cards whose online statements have not been submitted and approved within the 30 day time-frame may be suspended. Repeated non-compliance will result in card cancellation. Cards will be suspended/cancelled as follows:
- First Offense - PCard(s) suspended 7 days or until written notification (email is acceptable) is received that the reconciliation package is complete and the cardholder is in compliance, whichever is greater. PCard Coordinator notified of suspension.
- Second Offense - PCard(s) suspended 30 days or until written notification (email is acceptable) is received that the reconciliation package is complete and the cardholder is in compliance, whichever is greater. Cardholder must re-certify by completing the on-line "PCard Cardholder Training & Certification" tutorial. PCard Coordinator and Department Head notified of suspension.
- Third Offense - PCard(s) cancelled. Department Head may request cardholder be re-instated after 90 days provided written notification (email is acceptable) is received that all reconciliation packages are complete. Cardholder must re-certify by completing the on-line "PCard Cardholder Training & Certification" tutorial. PCard Coordinator, Department Head, and OHR notified of cancellation.
Please note: In extenuating circumstances (such as extended travel, on leave, etc), departments may request that specific cards be exempted from suspension for a brief period.
Violations of Policy
Violations of rules governing use of PCards can be classified as minor or major. Violations are evaluated on an individual basis and any action taken is dependent upon the nature and frequency of the violation.
Minor Violations include honest mistakes, such as inadvertently using the wrong card; allowable purchases from Institute funds, but those which are not allowed on the P Card. Minor violations should be addressed as follows:
- First Offense - The department is to address the violation with the cardholder and provide additional guidance as needed. Actions taken should be documented in writing with a copy sent to the PCard Program Manager.
- Second Offense - PCard(s) may be suspended for 30 days. Cardholder must re-certify by completing the on-line "PCard Cardholder Training & Certification" tutorial. Department is to ensure that the PCard Program Manager and Department Head are notified.
- Third Offense - PCard(s) may be cancelled. Department Head may request cardholder be re-instated after 90 days. Cardholder must re-certify by completing the on-line "PCard Cardholder Training & Certification" tutorial. Department is to ensure that the PCard Program Manager and Department Head are notified.
Major Violations are those violations that indicate a willful intent to disregard rules that results in cardholder misuse (i.e. would include knowingly making personal purchases). The circumstances of the violations will determine the appropriate action, which could include termination of employment and criminal penalties. When cardholder misuse is suspected, the department is to immediately notify the PCard Program Manager and the Director of Internal Auditing.
- The PCard is to be suspended pending further review and investigation by Internal Auditing.
Georgia Tech employees can confidentially and anonymously report suspected PCard misuse to the Department of Internal Auditing Hotline at:
Monthly review and approval of PCard transactions is required at the department level. The Department Head/PCard Coordinator will determine who the approvers will be for their departments.
Departments are responsible for reviewing all transactions to:
- Ensure the appropriateness of purchases and funds being utilized.
- Verify the completeness of documentation (detailed receipts, disputed transactions, approved requisition forms).
- Identify any policy violations and take appropriate action.
Business Services will receive a consolidated monthly billing statement from Bank of America for all Institute cardholders. The statement will be reconciled and processed for payment, in accordance with a plan on file in Business Services.
Compliance Reviews
Transactions will be reviewed online in accordance with plans on file in Business Services and Internal Auditing. Cardholder files will be reviewed in accordance with a plan on file in Business Services. Internal Auditing periodically conducts on-site compliance reviews in each department. These visits will be designed to:
- Review departmental records and record keeping practices
- Monitor adherence to policy guidelines
- Identify opportunities for process enhancements
- Offer "best practice" procedures
Results of these reviews will be used to enhance Georgia Tech's PCard processes and will be shared with the Department Heads.
|Revision Date
|May 2017
|Purchasing and Procurement
|State policy updates
|July 2016
|Purchasing and Procurement
|Update to policy changes
|March 2015
|Purchasing and Procurement
|Added additional compliance measures
|July 2013
|Purchasing and Procurement
|Update to policy