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Sony keeps the firmware updates coming, this time adding improvements and features to the F55 and F5 cameras.
Last week was a big one for Sony firmware updates, beginning with version 3.0 for the PXW-FS7 and, now, version 7.01 for the PMW-F5/F55 cameras (though technically version 7.0 never released due to a last minute issue, requiring a minor revision to v7.01).
Version 7.0 is a major release, with its new Quick Menu implementation, Zebra levels extending to 0%, Rec. 2020 Color Space (in F55 only) and the simultaneous recording of HD and 4K in 50i/50p or 59.94i/59.94p on SxS Pro+ cards.
In addition, a few bugs were squashed, including failure to apply a gain setting when recalling a scene file via remote controller, as well as a situation in AXS RAW and SxS simultaneous recording in which the internal SxS recording continued after pressing the Stop button.
Quick Menu
F5/55 users have long complained about needing to go deep into camera menus for many settings despite the operator's side display. Version 7.01 brings Quick Menu which allows exactly that – quick selection of virtually every setting that an operator would need.
Pressing the Option button on the camera invokes Quick Menu in the sub display. This is divided into six possible sets of operations (see the visual below): Project, Monitoring, MLUT, Media, Viewfinder and Others. Press the appropriate button to select the operation set.
The highly-intuitive choices allow selections to be made quickly and without needing to dig deeply into Sony's historically-dense menu structure.
Extended Zebra Range
Sony says it makes sense to extend the Zebra's full range and I heartily concur. If Zebra settings under prior firmware never extended below 50%, how would one be able to expose an 18% gray card for Slog2 (32%) or Slog3 (41%)?
Rec. 2020 Color Space in Custom Mode (ONLY on F55)
As we prepare for HDR TV, we need to be able to shoot in the widest possible color gamut for DCI 4K or UHD deliverables. This is now demanded by producers gearing up for the HDR market. Note that Rec 2020 is only available in Custom Mode. The S-Gamuts (except for S-Gamut3.Cine) available in CineEI mode are actually wider color gamuts than Rec. 2020. Hence, there is no need for that option in CineEI mode. Those needing to shoot in CineEI mode for Rec 2020 delivery should shoot in S-Gamut3, for the widest possible gamut.
Simultaneous Recording Modes
Again, Sony is responding to a user base requiring the ability to shoot 4K 59.94p, while also needing a simultaneous record of MPEG2 50Mbps 4:2:2 or 10 bit 4K/UHD 4:2:2 XAVC. Simultaneous recording is now available and the timecodes on the dual recordings will match.
It is important to note that changing shooting modes of the cameras between Custom and CineEI modes still requires going into the main camera menu via viewfinder or external 'dirty' monitor.
Along with the firmware announcement, Sony reiterates its commitment to further firmware and feature development for the CineAlta line, with "exciting announcements" to come in the near future.
Firmware v7.01 for the PMW-F5/F55 is available for immediate download from your region's Sony Professional site.


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NeilPeel's Photography
The Blog!
The 'other' reason for hitting Yogja is Pranbanan. Although by the looks of it there were plenty of other places to go too, for example a couple of volcanoes to climb and what looked like reasonably safe bike tours (Indonesian traffic is proper nuts!). All-in-all it was a shame we didn't have a bit longer there. Ho-hum!
Any-hoo Pranbanan will be the subject of the next update.
This one is a couple of paddy-field shots taken on the drive out there. The company we used emphasised that this was not the quickest way to the temple but used smaller back roads. Very nice it was too. Additionally, for every tour booked through them they plant a tree. Finally, the passion fruit and lemon cheese cake I had on our return to their restaurant was epically good! If your ever there I commend Via Via to you.
These fields were little hives of activity. All along the journey it looked the whole village was at work in one way or another in the fields. My eye was drawn to the people's reflections in the water in each paddy although they haven't really turned out as colourfully as I had hoped.
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This will be a blog about my latest shots and what I liked or was trying to do with them
I am a teacher of Economics and have worked in various schools in Europe & Asia. One of the things I love doing is getting out and about with my camera.
December 2019

subset: commoncrawl


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From Proteopedia
Structural highlights
[INS_HUMAN] Defects in INS are the cause of familial hyperproinsulinemia (FHPRI) [MIM:176730].[1] [2] [3] [4] Defects in INS are a cause of diabetes mellitus insulin-dependent type 2 (IDDM2) [MIM:125852]. IDDM2 is a multifactorial disorder of glucose homeostasis that is characterized by susceptibility to ketoacidosis in the absence of insulin therapy. Clinical fetaures are polydipsia, polyphagia and polyuria which result from hyperglycemia-induced osmotic diuresis and secondary thirst. These derangements result in long-term complications that affect the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and blood vessels.[5] Defects in INS are a cause of diabetes mellitus permanent neonatal (PNDM) [MIM:606176]. PNDM is a rare form of diabetes distinct from childhood-onset autoimmune diabetes mellitus type 1. It is characterized by insulin-requiring hyperglycemia that is diagnosed within the first months of life. Permanent neonatal diabetes requires lifelong therapy.[6] [7] Defects in INS are a cause of maturity-onset diabetes of the young type 10 (MODY10) [MIM:613370]. MODY10 is a form of diabetes that is characterized by an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance, onset in childhood or early adulthood (usually before 25 years of age), a primary defect in insulin secretion and frequent insulin-independence at the beginning of the disease.[8] [9] [10]
[INS_HUMAN] Insulin decreases blood glucose concentration. It increases cell permeability to monosaccharides, amino acids and fatty acids. It accelerates glycolysis, the pentose phosphate cycle, and glycogen synthesis in liver.
Evolutionary Conservation
Check, as determined by ConSurfDB. You may read the explanation of the method and the full data available from ConSurf.
Publication Abstract from PubMed
The solution structure of the B9(Asp) mutant of human insulin has been determined by two-dimensional 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Thirty structures were calculated by distance geometry from 451 interproton distance restraints based on intra-residue, sequential and long-range nuclear Overhauser enhancement data, 17 restraints on phi torsional angles obtained from 3JH alpha HN coupling constants, and the restraints from 17 hydrogen bonds, and the three disulphide bridges. The distance geometry structures were optimized using restrained molecular dynamics (RMD) and energy minimization. The average root-mean-square deviation for the best 20 RMD refined structures is 2.26 A for the backbone and 3.14 A for all atoms if the less well-defined N and C-terminal residues are excluded. The helical regions are better defined, with root-mean-square deviation values of 1.11 A for the backbone and 2.03 A for all atoms. The data analysis and the calculations show that B9(Asp) insulin, in water solution at the applied pH (1.8 to 1.9), is a well-defined dimer with no detectable difference between the two monomers. The association of the two monomers in the solution dimer is relatively loose as compared with the crystal dimer. The overall secondary and tertiary structures of the monomers in the 2Zn crystal hexamer is found to be preserved. The conformation-averaged NMR structures obtained for the monomer is close to the structure of molecule 1 in the hexamer of the 2Zn insulin crystal. However, minor, but significant deviations from this structure, as well as from the structure of monomeric insulin in solution, exist and are ascribed to the absence of the hexamer and crystal packing forces, and to the presence of monomer-monomer interactions, respectively. Thus, the monomer in the solution dimer shows a conformation similar to that of the crystal monomer in molecular regions close to the monomer-monomer interface, whereas it assumes a conformation similar to that of the solution structure of monomeric insulin in other regions, suggesting that B9(Asp) insulin adopts a monomer-like conformation when this is not inconsistent with the monomer-monomer arrangement in the dimer.
Three-dimensional solution structure of an insulin dimer. A study of the B9(Asp) mutant of human insulin using nuclear magnetic resonance, distance geometry and restrained molecular dynamics.,Jorgensen AM, Kristensen SM, Led JJ, Balschmidt P J Mol Biol. 1992 Oct 20;227(4):1146-63. PMID:1433291[11]
From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
See Also


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La Anuncacion - film by Enrique Pineda Barnet, 2009
Saturday February 5th at 2:00 pm
A separated family, a will, a magical city. They are
united by their differences.
Havana, 2006: Amalia, an spiritualist elder women,
just became a widow. She resides in the smallest
apartment, on the last floor of the oldest building, of
the most historically old corner in the Vedado
District. She lives with Cristobal, her 10 year old
grandson, and her youngest son, Mayito. Amalia
brings the family together in order to read them the
testament of her late husband, Octavio.
Her children: Ricardo, a revolutionary engineer who
lives and works in a Humble little town of Provincia;
Margarita an architect residing in the USA where she
has her own family; and Mayito, a bohemian
musician and poet.
They live in separate worlds.
The family reunion serves to tell the stories of their
lives. Amalia, a loyal believer, this time assuming a
paternal role to unify. But, at bringing back the
spirit of her late husband, he speaks through the
median of his grandson, and reveals that a legitimate
document exists. It is the boy who discovers and
reveals the truth.


text: Street art always been appreciated by our followers a lot. So that is way we again bring 15 striking and appealing examples of street art for the inspiration or our followers. These photos have been taken from different sources and perfectly compiled for our lovely visitors. You don need to go for searching of these types of street arts from different sites we bring on single and only platform and that is Photography Heat. All these photos are fantastic examples of 3d street art. We already posted Murals and different types of streets arts for the inspiration of our visitors.


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Browse the Crown Resorts Group Hotels and explore the luxurious rooms & suites, meeting facilities and get a better idea of our accommodations!
Visit us to find out more information and book direct for the best rates.
Crown Resorts Group is a forward thinking company dynamically involved in the hospitality industry, in the franchised restaurant industry & in real estate development. Our hotel portfolio in Cyprus, comprises 3 Hotels and Hotel Apartments with about 550 rooms and 1,300 beds. Most of our Hotels can claim to be great within their class.
We declare our vision to be the leaders in our categories within the Cyprus market for you and take this goal to heart: For our guests we always inspire to provide our traditional service with a smile!
Browse the Crown Resorts Group Hotels and explore them, meeting facilities and get a better idea of our accommodations! Visit the Crown Resorts Horizon, Crown Resorts Elamaris or Crown Resorts Henipa in stunning Cyprus.
Restaurant & Bars
Restaurant with breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner (weekly theme events on a regular basis). Snack Bar with 'A La Carte' menu and take away service, pool bar, cocktail bar, entertainment bar. Shopping Centre, launderette and more. Wireless internet is also available throughout the hotel.
Treasure Your Summer Vacation Memories
Display vacation mementos that are too bulky for a book in a pickle or pasta-sauce jar instead.
How to fit your holiday packing in one carry-on bag
Start your journey stress-free with these 11 hand luggage hacks, pack for a week in one carry-on case and save both money …
10 beach hacks that will improve your summer holiday
Be ready for sun, sea and sandy beach trips with these helpful summer holiday tips. Use a fitted sheet to protect your belongings from sand.
At one with their stupendous natural location, each of our hotels in Cyprus seduces its guests into an oasis of mysticism & luxury. Crown Resorts Group in Larnaca, Paralimni & Pafos exudes all that reflects simple elegance in the island country in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Browse the Crown Resorts Group Hotels & explore them, meeting facilities & get a better idea of our accommodations! Visit us to find out more information & book direct for the best rates.


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Event date:
Wednesday, August 17, 2016 - 3:00pm to 3:20pm
Attendance Required:
Study abroad is an exciting way to learn and can be an important part of your college experience. It's never too early to start planning! We'll talk about the myths and facts of study abroad and tips for getting started on finding the perfect program for you.


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Here in the Heartland we actually had a couple of days last week when the temps crawled over the 50 degree mark. It was enough to get me thinking spring. The first item on my 'to do' list is to schedule a pedicure so I won't frighten anyone when I break out the flip flops for the first time. There are plenty of gorgeous spring hues to choose from in this list of 50 from Lucky Magazine.
Sneakers will be a big trend in spring fashion but these looks go way beyond the gym rat vibe. Here are 10 ways to wear them that are as stylish as sneakers are comfortable.
For me, the end of February signals winter's homestretch. Before swimsuit season is a full-blown threat, I'll likely give a few of my favorite comfort foods a final turn. This phyllo chicken pot pie recipe is definitely on the list.
Who can resist getting the look of a designer handbag for a fraction of the cost? Thanks to The Budget Babe blog, I've added this Kate Spade look-alike to the list for my next Target run.
Fat Tuesday is just over a week away. My husband LOVES Cajun and Creole cuisine so I'm going to pick one or two recipes to try from this list of 30 classic dishes.
The Academy Awards show is next Sunday. If you missed my post for hosting an Oscar watch party, you need to catch up here.


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News from the field….
Multi-National Force – Iraq – Iraqi Police continue to improve safety in Baghdad neighborhood
BAGHDAD — Iraqi Police continue to improve security in the Al-Karkh district here Friday."Our mission is to investigate crimes and respond to emergencies," said Iraqi Police Capt. Majid, deputy commander of the Juaifer Police Station, which is responsible for the Salhiya neighborhood.
Majid had pointed out that the Salhiya neighborhood is an area composed of Shia and Sunni residents, which borders the Tigris River and contains Haifa Street and attributes the change in the area's crime patterns, over the last few months, to several factors beginning with increased patrols.
"Our police conduct many patrols in cars and on foot throughout the neighborhood," he said. "We have several vehicle checkpoints and a patrol in the market."
The neighborhood is safer because of improved law enforcement measures. Also, the Iraqi Police in the area routinely works with the Iraqi Army.
"The Iraqi Army will provide escort [security] for our police and work side-by-side at checkpoints," said Majid. "We used to have up to three to four murders a day, but since Fardh Al-Qanoon started, murder and attacks have decreased tremendously."
While security and crime investigation remain positive factors, being community leaders and building relationships with local residents during patrols has also helped the Iraqi Police gain a foothold in the neighborhood.
"Children and adults come out to greet the police and seem happy they are in their neighborhoods," said U.S. Army 1st Lt. Elizabeth Zerwick, a Police Transition Team advisor who is helping the Juafer Police Station. "The people will flag down the police when they drive through their areas."
However much the Iraqi police station has improved, they still face challenges.
Many Iraqi policemen have left the station because they fear for their families lives while others have simply been fired, said Majid. However, most of the 115 policemen who make up the force have several years experience in the field and are making a difference in the neighborhood.
In spite of challenges, Majid remains hopeful for the police station and envisioned new vehicles, more weapons and more manpower to build his workforce to continue making the Salhiya neighborhood safe.
"This police station helps Iraq because it helps make it safe for people to live here," said Majid.
(Story by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Elisandro Diaz, Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq Public Affairs)


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For health reasons, it is important that I exercise every single day, even if it's just a walk around the neighbourhood. I guess we could all say that, really, but, in my case, due to a chronic pain disorder, if I slack off for even a day, I awake stiff, sore and unable to move around the house enough to do even the most menial of tasks. So, no matter how I feel, I have to get up and get moving. I found years ago that I was far more likely to do work out if I actually set aside time to go to the gym. At home, I was too easily distracted, and it was too easy for something to come up to prevent me from working out. Can't put in the yoga or pilates video, because the kids are watching cartoons. Oh, now I can't go for a walk, because it's time for lunch. I'd work with the weights a little, but there's so much laundry to do… I am the Queen of Excuses.
But, at the end of the day, I find that I feel better, get more accomplished and…well, I AM better when I make time to exercise. It makes me stronger, healthier, and just a better person. It's meditative for me, and my brain really needs that. I still have memory and concentration problems, but, when I take care of myself, I find I am better able to complete tasks (and finish sentences). I am more focussed, more patient and happier. And, since I am the mama, when I'm happier, everyone's happier. So, it's worth taking the time out of my day to get up and get moving.
That said, a gym membership doesn't really fit in to our budget right now. I mean, we could probably swing it, but why? There are other ways I would rather spend that money ~ like, say, on banjo lessons! and fabric! and cool socks for Kaia to wear with her uniforms when she starts middle school! and art supplies! and music lessons! and tickets to We Will Rock You at the Ahmanson!!
Sorry. I digress. Again.
As I was saying, the gym membership doesn't really fit in to our budget right now. Shane rides his bike to work so that helps him satisfy his workout needs, and I was doing okay with trying to do a little yoga every morning and taking walks around the neighbourhood, but I was looking for something a little more challenging and interesting. I remembered a couple of great local parks (Beeman and Van Nuys/Sherman Oaks) at which I always loved to walk, because, along the track, there is gym equipment. I have been driving to one or the other a couple of times a week, and it's great. I feel stronger than I have in a long time, and I am saving us the cost of a gym membership. Nevertheless, I was sure I could save even more money if I didn't have to drive so far, so I went online to see if there were any parks with gym equipment located closer to my home. Sure enough, I found this great list:
I am so excited to check out all of the nearby "gyms." I think visiting different locations will keep my workouts interesting. Once school starts up again (in just a few weeks!), since my two old favourites are close and convenient to stop by after drop-off or before pick-up, my schedule should fall into place fairly easily. If not, I will just make a new plan. That fact is, I have to do this. It's important to me to stay as healthy and strong as possible, so I can live my very best possible life.
I wanted to share this resource, because I am sure there are a lot of local folks who would love to take advantage of these free outdoor fitness areas. If you are not in the L.A. area, do a google search for parks with gym equipment in your area. It might not be as "glamorous" as the gym, but it will save you a monthly fee, and, like me, you might find you prefer being outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine for your workouts.
Have fun, be frugal and stay healthy.


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KTLA 5 News is now available on any Google Home device.
Our audio news updates incorporate the day's top stories and most interesting news, giving you what you need to know in just a few minutes of your time.
Listen to a sample here:
There's no need to install any apps or make changes to your settings. Just address your Google Home device with, "Hey Google, talk to KTLA" or "hey Google, ask KTLA what the latest news is."
More information about the service is located here: https://assistant.google.com/.
For Amazon Alexa users, the service is also available. Check out details here.


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At Sancta, we understand you may need time to adjust and settle into university and college life. Our Welcome Week program is designed with this in mind.
Sancta's Welcome Week for undergraduates occurs a week before the commencement of lectures and aims to fit in with other university orientation programs. A Commencement Mass and Dinner is held for new students – both undergraduate and postgraduate and their parents/guests. This evening offers the opportunity for you and your parents to meet the Principal, Vice-Principal, and other College staff members. Residents receive a formal invitation with more information about this event.
Welcome Week is also an opportune time for undergraduate residents to meet all the new students at Sancta and those at other University of Sydney Residential Colleges. The Orientation Committee comprises Second and Third Year students (Sophomores and Seniors) and is available to advise and provide information to first-year students related to timetables, textbooks, lecture locations and social events.
Student organisers from Sancta liaise with the other colleges to organise a full program of social events. Some of these Welcome Week activities include various activities at other colleges as well as at Sancta.
The Senior Common Room Committee (for postgraduates) organises various events for new students at the beginning of the year as part of a Welcome Week program.
All University of Sydney students are invited to attend the Chancellor's welcome at the University's Great Hall and explore the main campus and the many stalls and information booths, and join clubs and societies.


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A complete overhaul on their room, of course! It's like retail therapy but taken up a notch. Suddenly they were coming home saying things like: Dude and Duh.
Letter People and stuffed animals seemed a little too "babyish" for my too cool for school boys. I decided work around my leopard rug because I love it (and it hides all stains) and start over with big boys in mind.
I bought some ready-made panels and hung them with $4 worth of rope from Lowes.
Found some canvases covered in stitched hide and hung them with a shelf made of brackets and reclaimed wood. Just had to throw in my favorite "see no evil, hear no evil" owls. (Yes boys, I can see all evil).
Tired of my cheesy ceiling fan with ugly frosted globe, I simply removed the globe and added a cool orange burlap shade. The boys love their fan, so replacing it with a light fixture simply would not do.
I filled flannel boxes with "homework" supplies (crayons).
Bought a beautiful mid-century dresser on Craig's List and had it painted in high gloss "chelsea gray" (Ben Moore). I love the lines (and color) because it can grow up with them.
I stole this painting (from my parent's who don't know what a blog is, so I'm safe). It was in their garage with a stash of my super-talented brother's work. He's a budding architect and amazing artist.
Couldn't pass up this Missoni frame from Target.
And loved the wire hanging baskets I found at Homegoods for books. The tee-pee in the corner is for campouts and was decorated by your's truly and my artists in residence.
A little reading nook (even though they can't read), we're hopeful. The room wouldn't be complete without blankie who even got a special washing for the room re-do.
Overall, I think it turned out great. Not to mention, tonight, the twins are sleeping in their new room. Big step because for some strange reason, my "big boys" have been finding their way into my bed every night.
P.S. If you are interested in the bamboo headboards, drapes or some of the art/accessories in the "baby boys'" room, you're in luck. They're for sale!
Just shoot me an email: firstname.lastname@example.com and I'll send you some photos and details.


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'The heart aske pleasure first' is a beautiful theme, even without the movie to accompany the music. It sounds like classical music, and in a way, of course, it is. Even if it was composed in the Nineties.
My collection: 7" single no. 2329
Found: Concerto, Amsterdam, June 3, 1995
Cost: 2 guilders
Tracks: 'The heart asks pleasure first / The promise (edit)' / 'Big my secret', 'All imperfect things'


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POOL OF PEARLS. At the bottom of this six foot deep pool there are nine pearls.
Giant Jellyfish (AC 9; MV 1"; HD 4; hp 18; #AT 1; D 1-10; SA Paralyzation; SD Transparent; XP 257)
The giant jellyfish is transparent and 90% undetectable unless its opponent is capable of detecting invisible creatures. Its touch requires a save vs poison or the victim will be paralyzed for 3d4 turns and may begin drowning because the pool water is not breathable. Each pearl is worth 1000 gold crescents base value.


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Share a few contact details and we'll send you the video link to the to your inbox.
Create content that addresses your audience's wants and needs
Learn how to make content creation a regular and easy task
Discover how gating your content can help you capture more leads
By now, you've probably heard that content marketing is a must for your real estate website. If you're stuck on what to write about, or how to connect the dots between a blog post and a new lead, you've come to the right place.
Content creation doesn't need to be a challenge! Join KW Associate Barbara Woyak and members of Placester's marketing team as they share vital strategies for content creation in this on-demand webinar.
Learn how you can effectively use content marketing to attract more visitors to your real estate website. Then, discover how you can turn that traffic into qualified leads!


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YaLLa Esports – Shop Opening
YLDR is very proud to present YaLLa Esportswear's brand new shop with amazing products and more to come, check it out here!
YaLLa Esports is the leading esports organization in the Middle East and North Africa with the vision of pioneering the regional esports scene by nurturing local talent to become a major player in the global esports ecosystem.
Klaus Kajetski, Founder of YaLLa Esports, is happy with the new cooperation.
-We at YaLLa Esports are very pleased to have found a supplier like YLDR for all our merchandise solutions. We don't need to worry about logistics or warehousing as YLDR takes care of everything from production to shipping on a global scale. Personally I prefer working with smaller companies that truly value YaLLa Esports as a customer and a mutually beneficial partnership gives room for both to grow!
YLDR's CEO, Robin Backström, is excited about the partnership and the launch of the shop.
-We are very happy that YaLLa Esports have entrusted us with the task of running their teamwear and merchandise. They have been very fast growing and have definitely made a name for themselves, so we look forward to being a part of their growth.
This is one important step in our journey to become a true international competitor offering teams worldwide to enhance their teamwear and merch.
Let's get wilder, together!


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04/17/2014 (press release: CambridgePRGroup) // BEDFORD, N.H. // MINI of Bedford
The MINI auto brand is known for going above and beyond the usual marketing tactics to engage its enthusiastic owners, and now it is going so far as to produce limited numbers of a 2014 MINI Hardtop designed by one of its customers. Making its public debut at the New York International Auto Show this week, the DeLux MINI Hardtop was imagined by college student Alex Coyle, the winner of MINI's Final Test Test Drives contest, and up to 56 units of the vehicle are available for order on MINIUSA.com and at MINI dealerships nationwide.
Inspired by the concept of a blacklight, Coyle's MINI Hardtop dons a black paintjob with neon-blue lines that seem to mimic a circuit board. While "Lux" is the root meaning of light, the model received the DeLux name because it has been customized to come with many deluxe features inside the cabin. The Final Test Test Drives contest started by asking current and former MINI owners to submit a photo or video highlighting the unique ways they would try out new features in the next-generation 2014 MINI Hardtop. After receiving more than 800 submissions, MINI selected nine finalists in addition to a fan-chosen favorite, allowing each entrant to test-drive the new MINI Hardtop on film and then bring their designs to life by working with an illustrator. Coyle's blacklight-themed package was voted as the winner by the MINI community.
"It requires a pretty bold auto brand to take a customer's ideas and then actually put them into production, but as a result, MINI fans now have an opportunity to take home a rare MINI Hardtop model that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes," said Gary King, general manager of MINI of Bedford, a New Hampshire MINI dealer. "The futuristic design of the DeLux package is a perfect match for the 2014 MINI Hardtop because the new generation has taken a big leap forward in performance, efficiency and technology."
Available now at dealerships, the 2014 MINI Hardtop offers a choice of two new engines, including a standard 1.5-liter TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder unit that boasts 13 more horsepower and five more miles per gallon than the outgoing 1.6-liter four-cylinder, which produces a total of 134 horsepower and returns up to 42 mpg on the highway. Meanwhile, the 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engine in the MINI Cooper S has 189 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque on tap while still netting up to 38 mpg on the highway. Inside, buyers can opt for a new MINI Head-Up Display on an extendible monitor in the upper dashboard that safely communicates information like speed and navigation directions. It also sends out alerts for the newly available Driving Assistant technologies, which include a camera-based cruise control, a distance-control function and a collision- and pedestrian-warning system with initial-braking capability.
About MINI of Bedford:
MINI of Bedford is the first and only MINI dealership in New Hampshire, and their team is excited to be bringing motoring fun to Granite State drivers. Shoppers who visit MINI of Bedford online at www.minibedford.com, or in person at 209 S. River Road in Bedford, NH, will find a huge selection of new and used MINI models. Plus, the arrival of MINI to New Hampshire means that convenient MINI service is just around the corner. For more information or to schedule a test-drive, their friendly staff can be reached at 603-637-2900, and those looking for the latest dealership news can visit MINI of Bedford on Facebook at www.facebook.com/miniofbedford.
Social Media Tags:2014 MINI Hardtop, New Hampshire MINI
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No matter how hard he tries, Donald Trump just cannot escape the looming shadow of federal investigation. You might think that Trump merely sold his soul to Russia for a chance at the presidency of the United States, but the depth of his entanglement is unimaginably deeper. Despite his increasingly unhinged denials…
The single greatest Witch Hunt in American history continues. There was no collusion, everybody including the Dems knows there was no collusion, & yet on and on it goes. Russia & the world is laughing at the stupidity they are witnessing. Republicans should finally take control!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018
… Trump is in deep.
Congress refuses to rest, and is following every lead that could result in Trump being held accountable for his long history of alleged abuses. Much of his despicable behavior is hard to prosecute, but financial crimes always leave a very detailed paper trail.
In May and December of 2017, the House's Committee on Financial Services formally asked Secretary of the Treasury (and low-budget John Oliver), Steven Mnuchin, to deliver documents related to Trump's Russian financial ties. Both requests were ignored. This isn't surprising, given that those very documents will likely implicate Mnuchin himself in a multi-national money laundering scheme. The governmental agency charged with investigating federal financial crimes (FinCEN), such as money laundering, is headed by the very man that should be under investigation.
It turns out that there should be more stringent requirements for being appointed Secretary of Treasury than just really liking to stand near money.
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin his wife Louise Linton look at the first currency notes bearing his and U.S. Treasurer Jovita Carranza's signatures, Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017, at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) in Washington. (AP Photo/@Jacquelyn_M) pic.twitter.com/UKdBbEvYpF
— Michael B. Kelley (@MichaelBKelley) November 15, 2017
Today, the tenacious committee members unloaded again on Mnuchen. This request (via Bloomberg Politics) is the most strongly worded yet, with damning supporting evidence that Mnuchin is compromised and should recuse himself from any decisions relating to the Trump/Russia financial scandal.
Among other requests, the committee specifically asks Mnuchen:
"Have you ever directed, or has any other Trump Administration official, Trump campaign official or Trump family member called on you to direct U.S. Treasury officials or staff members to obscure, destroy, or withhold information implicating the President, Trump campaign officials, Trump family members or his associates?"
But what would Mnuchin's motive be? Why would he cover up these financial crimes for Trump? Oh, that's right. He served as the Trump campaign's finance chair. He was intimately involved, part of the inner circle. Just like our favorite spigot of information, Steve Bannon. In fact, Bannon's stunning revelations in Michael Wolff's Fire and Fury: Inside Trump's White House only give more weight to the theory that the campaign and Trump organization both knew about these financial indiscretions.
"This is all about money laundering. Their path to [expletive] Trump goes right through Paul Manafort, Don Jr. and Jared Kushner.It's as plain as a hair on your face."
If Bannon, who served as the campaign's CEO, knew about this dirty cash pipeline, then there's no question that the finance chair of the campaign knew, too.
Further support of this theory comes from Mnuchin's own actions as head of the Treasury Department:
With Bannon openly expressing panic about Trump universe money laundering, the decision by Mnuchin to unilaterally install a new head of the Treasury unit fighting money-laundering (FinCEN) looks ever more suspicious: https://t.co/AgGlqWkbpi
cc: @IanTalley @SalehaMohsin pic.twitter.com/tWfHSZqvvs
— Jeff Hauser (@jeffhauser) January 3, 2018
Donnie T.'s got a big grudge against FinCEN. Before his cronies were installed in leadership, FinCEN fined one of Trump's casinos for…. wait for it: money laundering! In 2015, the then-director of FinCEN issued this statement:
"Like all casinos in this country, Trump Taj Mahal has a duty to help protect our financial system from being exploited by criminals, terrorists, and other bad actors. Far from meeting these expectations, poor compliance practices, over many years, left the casino and our financial system unacceptably exposed."
Trump thinks he's smart.
….Actually, throughout my life, my two greatest assets have been mental stability and being, like, really smart. Crooked Hillary Clinton also played these cards very hard and, as everyone knows, went down in flames. I went from VERY successful businessman, to top T.V. Star…..
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018
….to President of the United States (on my first try). I think that would qualify as not smart, but genius….and a very stable genius at that!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018
But the combined efforts of congress, other public servants, state and federal agencies, and the intelligence community are unrelenting. The march of justice has begun.
Featured image via Getty/Andrew Harrer


text:
On Saturday night, the Little Creek Casino was filled with people who looked like they shouldn't be gambling away their paychecks.
There were lots of folks in the Social Security demographic without many dollars to spare. There were also plenty of younger ones who looked as if they might be workers at the lumber mill in nearby Shelton or waitresses at diners where you pay the bill at the counter and leave a tip from the change in your pocket. Some of them were likely on the edge of being laid off – or they'd already gone over that edge and were making their final bid for a lucky strike.
I wasn't tempted to join them at the gaming tables. I've never been a gambler. I'm adventurous, but, when it comes to money, I either want a sure thing or else the reward of some experience so great I don't care what it costs. (Sitting like a cow with glazed eyes in front of a video slot machine ain't one of those experiences.) I suppose my lack of a gambling impulse explains why I spent nearly three decades at the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. A few times in my career, I was asked to take a risk and jump to a different news organization, but I stuck with the one that paid steady dividends through the years.
One of those dividends has been my minor celebrity status in the Puget Sound region. That's what brought me to the Little Creek Casino Resort. Over in the casino hotel, the Democrats of Mason County were holding their annual Jefferson-Jackson Dinner and I was the entertainment for the evening, my final scheduled gig on behalf of the dear departed print P-I. After dinner was served, I followed 6th District Congressman Norm Dicks to the podium and presented a show of my cartoons covering the 2008 presidential campaign and the opening days of the Obama administration. I topped it off with a few of the cartoons I've done about the implosion of the newspaper industry.
I closed out the presentation by taking questions from the audience. Interestingly, this political crowd had no questions about politics; they wanted me to talk about newspapers. Many described the feeling of loss they are experiencing because of the print P-I's demise. I assured them they could still find my cartoons and plenty of local news at seattlepi.com, but that option obviously holds less appeal for traditional newspaper readers. For them, reading news on a screen offers none of the tactile appeal of ink on paper. They cannot imagine getting cozy with a computer the way they always have with a newspaper, stretched out on a couch with the various sections divided up and handy for sharing and languid perusal. Some folks at the dinner had a look of abandonment in their eyes when they talked to me. Losing their newspaper has hit them hard, partly because they never imagined it could happen. As one woman said, "You don't know what you've got 'till it's gone."
I saw that same look of abandonment in the eyes of many of my P-I colleagues on Friday night at the Ballard Elks Club. A party had been organized – a wake, really – and several hundred current and former P-I staffers gathered to celebrate, commiserate and say goodbye. There were old colleagues I hadn't seen in 20 years. There were four of the five editorial page editors who, each in their turn, kept angry readers at bay while I honed my craft. There were the friends I made when we were all young and new to the P-I newsroom, friends who have moved on but remain my closest pals. It was dizzying seeing all these people from different stages of my life in one room — sort of like a high school reunion on steroids. Yet, I kept finding myself drawn away from the alumni. I needed, most of all, to hang out with the recent grads. Two weeks ago, they were the latest feisty and vibrant incarnation of P-I journalism. Now, most of them are unemployed and wondering if they will ever work in the news business again.
For readers, the bond with a newspaper is clearly personal, emotional, even familial. Many wept when the final P-I arrived in their homes. Their parents and grandparents had been P-I subscribers. The P-I's writers and columnist had become daily companions. Subscribing to a newspaper is like a marriage, a one-and-only sort of commitment. Reading news online, by comparison, seems more like speed dating, a promiscuous chasing after threads of information from many sources. It has yet to be seen if people will develop a sense of fidelity to any single news web site.
For newspaper journalists, the bond is also personal, emotional and definitely familial. It is a career like no other. By turns, the newspaper journalist is a wordsmith, a crusader, a detective, an entertainer, a voyeur, a cynic and an idealist. A newspaper is a collection of such people who, while bumping up against each other's egos and aspirations in annoying and infuriating ways, nevertheless become a band of brothers and sisters who perform an invaluable service for their community.
The questions on the minds of my friends and fellow-journalists at the Ballard Elks on Friday night and the P-I fans down in Mason County on Saturday evening were pretty much the same: Is it over? Will at least some newspapers weather the current crisis or are they all doomed? And, if newspapers go away, can the thousands of journalists in this country who have lost their livelihood somehow reinvent themselves and their industry? And, if they cannot, how can we get along without them? Like the woman said, you don't know what you've got 'till it's gone.
Sunday morning, I checked out of the Little Creek Casino Resort without placing a single bet and drove up the highway toward Bremerton. I passed through stretches of timberland where the trees had all been cut down. It made me think of the millions of trees that won't be pulverized anymore to make newspapers. Ecologically speaking, that's a good thing. On the other hand, we can always grow new trees, but can we grow new journalists when the ones we have are long gone?
That seems like a mighty big gamble.


text:
Experience Is a Wonderful Teacher
By Len Nunes
The "Saskatchewan Road Trip" has begun for the Edmonton Prospects with a dud. The much anticipated two-time WMBL Finals re-match between the Prospects and Swift Current 57's was a one-sided affair finishing 12-2 in favour of the defending Champions. There is a litany of excuses one could write to try to explain away the loss but the reality is these kinds of games happen. To a man, players on the Prospects know what went wrong and know what to work on in advance of tonight's game in Moose Jaw. More-so, the Prospects players and coaches know what to do better in advance of the re-match with these same 57's on Monday June 25th again here in Swift Current. Experience is a wonderful teacher if you allow her to be and you need these bumps in the road to help you learn better.
Prospects starting pitcher Michael Gahan cruised along until the 6th inning. Gahan pitched 1-2-3 innings in the 2nd and 4th innings allowing only 4 hits through the first 5 innings. A 2-out single with a man on first turned into the 57's first run of the evening due to a Prospects error. A 1-out double in the 5th would come in to score on a wild pitch making it 2-0. The bottom of the 6th began with the only walk Gahan issued the entire evening and then proceeded to go downhill from there. The final stat line for the sixth inning is as follows - 4 runs allowed on 4 hits and 3 errors. The number that pops off the screen is the three errors. Gahan's final line was 6IP, 6 runs scored (only 3 earned) on 8 hits collecting 3 strikeouts.
Steadily improving through his first three appearances, Jordan Smith took over the Prospects mound in the seventh inning. Smith hit the first batter he faced, then gave up back-to-back doubles making the score 8-0. Smith then settled down and retired the 57's in order.
Swift Current starter Carter Buck's final pitching line was a solid 7 1/3 innings played allowing 2 runs on 6 hits striking out 8. It is the first time all season that the top of the Prospects order was held off the scoresheet. Clean-up batter Nick Spillman started the top of the 8th inning with a single. Matt Coutney followed suit. With 1-out and the bases loaded Gio Villaneuva hit a 2-RBI double putting the Prospects on the board.
Prospects reliever Brandon Hill has struggled in the early going of the season but was coming off his best showing on June 17th versus the Lethbridge Bulls. The first five batters he faced reached base before he settled down and retired the 57's in order. When the dust settled though, four more 57's runs had scored making it 12-2.
Both WMBL Championship finalists sit under .500 as the Prospects drop to 7-8 and the 57's improve to 8-9.
David LeBlanc entered the game batting 2 of 12 on the season. On a night where the Prospects struggled, LeBlanc went 2 of 3 at the plate. Honourable mention of course to Gio Villaneuva for collecting the only 2 RBI's of the night.
Thursday, June 21 and Friday June 22 in Moose Jaw
Saturday June 23 and Sunday June 24 in Weyburn
Monday June 25 in Swift Current
Wednesday June 27 SCHOOLS OUT vs Okotoks Dawgs at 7PM
Saturday June 30 vs Melville Millionaires - Tickets just $10 for students and the band starts at 5pm. Get to the pre-game concert early and party in the Prospects' Pit in the stand-up 1st base area. Stay and enjoy the game that starts at 7pm. Cheap beer and cheap fun!
CANADA DAY - 7PM vs Brooks - AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT, BUY THESE TICKETS NOW!


text:
Story Line:
Five years ago our heroes the Duckrockers thought they had figured it all out – they had found themselves girlfriends to take to Siones wedding and the future was looking bright: Michael had come to accept that commitment wasnt for him and he was always going to fancy white girls; Albert had finally hooked up with his co-worker Tania; Stanley, always the weird one, had managed to find himself a nice girl one of the catering staff from the wedding; and Sefa had even got the courage to propose to his long term girlfriend, Leilani. And Bolo? Well, apparently his name is actually Paul. Fast-forward five years and things havent quite gone as the boys might have planned: Albert is now married to Tania and they are living in suburbia, both working in insurance and also trying (unsuccessfully) to have a baby; Sefa and Leilani are still together and now have two kids although despite Sefas proposal, theyre still not married. And while Sefas business is falling apart, Leilani seems to be living life to the full; Stanley is now a trainee Deacon in the Future Church; Michael has moved to Australia but the boys dont hear from him often; and Bolo has thrown in his job with Sefa and taken up work with Sione, Michaels younger brother. Growing up appears to be driving the Duckrockers apart but when theyre confronted with one of lifes unexpected turns and Bolo goes missing, their Minister once again brings them together and sends them on a quest. Their mission: to find Bolo. Where do you start when you are looking for this one Samoan in the worlds largest Polynesian city?
[FORMAT]:…………………..[ Matroska
[GENRE]:……………………[ Comedy
[NO OF CDs]:………………..[ 1
[LANGUAGE ]:………………..[ English
[SUBTITLES]:………………..[ none
[RELEASE RUNTIME]:…………..[ 1h 32mn
[SOURCE]:…………………..[ Siones.2.Unfinished.Business.720p.2012.BluRay.x264-PFa
[iMDB RATING]:………………[ 5.8/10
[Encoder]:………………[ nItRo


text:
Welcome to Almissani d.o.o.
Company Almissani is the main Croatian representative for motoryachts of well known Italian manufactures such are Rio Yachts, InRizzardi Group, Rhea Marine as well as American Bayliner of the Brunswick corporation. Almissani also offers brokerage for all types of boats and charter booking services on the beautiful Adriatic Sea. Our headquarters is situated on the lovely Croatian Adriatic coast with more than 1000 islands, which gives us an opportunity to evaluate all the pleasures of yachting and boating. We are also offering Charter and Charter Booking in the Adriatic sea for motor yachts and sailing boats.
RIO Yacht is an old Italian boat builder from 60's with great tradition and well know Italian and special RIO style.
On our listing you can also find best pleasure boats like POSILLIPO yachts which we represent.
For more details please click on the new yachts for sale.
Almissani d.o.o.


text:
Approaching the upcoming election, ThreeConservativeBros is highlighting 50 events that have influenced our nation since the 2008 Presidential Election. Today we discuss reasons 36 thru 50. Click here to review Volume I, Volume II, Volume III, and Volume IV. (more…)
Posts Tagged 'Henry Louis Gates Jr.'
50 Things That Changed America – Volume V
Posted in Democrats, eric holder, Fox News, Health Care, Illegal immigration, Immigration, juan williams, Obama, Politics, Race Relations, Supreme Court, tagged ACORN, Bank Bailout, BP Oil Spill, Charlie Rangel, Dont Ask Dont Tell, Elena Kagan, Federal Budget, George W. Bush, Henry Louis Gates Jr., Jeremiah Wright, jimmy carter, Joe Arpaio, Joe Wilson, Kevin Jennings, Maxine Waters, Nancy Killefer, New Black Panthers, NPR, Obamacare, Omar Thornton, Rod Blagojevich, Rolan Burris, Shirley Sherrod, Sonia Sotomayor, Stupak Amendment, Timothy Geithner, Tom Daschle, unemployment, Van Jones on October 28, 2010| 4 Comments »
Tumultuous Behavior….
Posted in Race Relations, tagged America, Cambridge Police, Henry Louis Gates Jr., James Crowley, Obama, race on July 28, 2009| 4 Comments »
By now you have probably heard of the fiasco involving Henry Louis Gates Jr., the distinguished Professor at Harvard University. On July 16th, Cambridge Massachusetts police officers responded to a 9-1-1 call about a potential breaking and entering. This simple call has now led to a firestorm of media coverage over the past several days invoking emotions and heightening racial tensions. (more…)


text: We celebrated the first day of summer by having lemonade stand! It all started with Anya's desire to have her own lemonade stand to raise money for our upcoming trip to Disneyland to buy souvenirs. I thought that, while this was a great idea, she could donate some of her earnings to the local food bank: Fishline. Then Daddy found in the paper one day that Crayons Lemonade was giving away stands and lemonade to 1,000 kids across the nation, with all the proceeds from the stands to go to the charity of the child's choice. So we signed up and received our lemonade and stand and we were off! Instead if making money for herself she donated to Fishline and had a great time doing it. Even Lila got into the act calling out "Fresh Lemonade, nice and tasty." when it was her turn at the stand. We will still let her have a stand for Disneyland, but I think this was a great way to kick off Anya's entrepreneurial career. The kids also had a great time that day 'helping' at our church's car wash for and upcoming missions trip. All in all it was a full but fun way for our family to celebrate Midsommer.


text:
Being a fan of The Witcher game series I decided to give the stories, written by Andrzej Sapkowski, a try, and I can say right from the start that I wasn't dissapointed. The book contains a series of short stories, following our main character, Geralt of Rivia. There's a main story in the background, that gradually unfolds, but this is really focused on the short stories, and they are all entertaining.
For those who aren't familiar with the Witcher series, it follows Geralt who is a Witcher, a monster slayer who travels the country slaying bizzarre and interesting creatures. Witchers are taken from a young age and mutated, giving them supernatural abilities which aid them in their job.
If you've played the games, then you'll be used to Geralt's personality, and this is one thing that absolutely shines throughout the book. There were moments that had me laughing out loud, and other moments where I really found myself feeling sorry for our protagonist. Throughout the short stories I found Geralt becoming more and more likable, to the point of rocketing to one of my top favorite characters from any book!
He's no longer disillusioned with grand ideas of being a hero and that theme is captured fantastically well throughout.
If there's one blemish on this otherwise fantastic read, it's that the writing occasionally feels a little odd. I'm not sure if it's just the style, or the fact that this is a translation, but I couldn't help but find myself having to re-read parts, correcting them in my head as I read. It's not a huge issue as it doesn't crop up much, but there are a few niggling little abnormalities that crop up.
After reading this I can say with absolute certainty that I'll be checking out the next book. I didn't really expect much, but I can certainly see where the games get their fantastic story telling moments from. If you're a fan of The Witcher series, or just fantasy books in general, this is definitely worth giving a go. I absolutely loved it from start to finish!


text:
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text:
Sharp Turn Ahead: Is your organization facing a payments inflection point?
Glenbrook is kicking off a new payments organization optimization project for a biller client. Each time we do one of these projects, our client – with some embarrassment – admits that they think they are the only ones facing payments challenges. Nothing could be further from the truth! In fact, the smooth-running, optimized payments organization is the exception: even the most established, big-brand companies have payments challenges.
As businesses grow, they reach inflection points. The associated payment inflection point typically lags somewhat, but is inevitable. Many factors contribute toward a need to re-evaluate payment processes. Sometimes these work individually, but more typically multiple factors are in play at the same time – further complicating the landscape!
Here are a few real life examples of inflection points that cause organizations to re-evaluate their payments infrastructure:
Geography – As business expands in to new territories, payments needs change. We work with a number of eCommerce merchants who are startled to realize that credit card payments are insufficient when selling online to consumers overseas. All of a sudden, they find themselves in need of global payment system providers and potentially having to establish a local presence to gain access to local payment schemes in different countries.
Complexity – Over time, the back office becomes more and more complex. It used to be adequate to have a wholesale or retail lockbox, managed by your bank, to receive check payments from customers. Today, many companies receive payments via a lockbox, online one time, online recurring, online via a partner, by phone, either via an automated IVR system or via customer support agents, and some even maintain offices and accept walk in payments. Each of these payment streams is likely to have its own flavor of exceptions, IT interfaces, reports, settlement windows, and vendor(s).
Business model – When companies acquire other companies they often find themselves with unfamiliar payments streams. I had a Fortune 20 client that sold only to other large enterprises. But when it acquired a company that sold to micro-businesses it found itself suddenly accepting credit card transactions (lots of them!) with no means to automatically apply them to open invoices in accounts receivable and no relevant expertise. Another client happily discovered huge success selling to small businesses, but immediately found that its practice of accepting cash payment from this segment was not at all scalable.
Technology – Enterprises are adopting cloud solutions, and as a result back office solutions are gradually becoming more interoperable via APIs. As upstream business processes (whether CRM or merchandising or field service) being to move to tablets there is an opportunity to fix data discrepancies that lead to invoice inaccuracy much, much sooner. Technology opportunities such as these drive businesses to revisit the back office status quo.
Consumer behavior – The right now economy drives consumers to want real time data on their transactions, their account balance. These expectations are starting to blur into the commercial payment arena – as employees, we want our business tools to be as slick and intuitive as the apps we use on our smart phone in our personal lives.
Economy – And finally, as the economy remains anemic, low income and budget conscious consumers are adapting by using more cash. In person payments and prepaid solution are gaining momentum. Billers in particular are facing this challenge.
Trigger Points
Reflecting on your own organization, and its payments environment, consider the following potential triggers that may lead to a payments inflection point:
- New channel partners
- Converging channels (online and offline merging)
- Rapid growth and/or acquisitions
- Deceleration/sunseting a line of business
- Increasing cross-border sales or sourcing
There is no shame in realizing that your payments processes, tools, and perhaps even organizational structure aren't working any more. You just need to recalibrate, and as you do so expect that you will inevitably have to do so again, because if there is anything we can count on, it is change.
Glenbrook's Payments Organization Survey 2013
On a related note, we are currently conducting our third annual survey on payments organizations and invite you to participate. We are eager to learn how your company manages payments, and how your payments organization is evolving – whether you are a biller, eCommerce merchant, or retailer; whether you sell to consumers or businesses (or both). In this third iteration we'll have an opportunity to track changes over time, noting how organizations adapt to increasing globalization and the blurring of online and offline commerce thus providing critical benchmarking insight to you and other participating companies.
Complete the survey here. All survey respondents will receive a copy of the forthcoming research report and my partner Jacqueline Chilton will be presenting the results via webinar over the summer.
Payments Organization Optimization
Glenbrook frequently works with companies to assess and improve payment processes, technology/vendors/reporting tools/talent and develop an actionable road map for improvement. Let us know if you are interested in help recalibrating your payments organization.


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Directed by Jonny Moore and Leonora Moore
Starring Alexander Jeremy and Esther Yang
Fresh from its success at the Manchester International Film Festival, the ambitious yet unpretentious Made in Taiwan explores the world of underground cinema through the eyes of filmmaker Jack (Jeremy) and his girlfriend Amy-Lin (Yang) as he creates a high-inducing film that draws in audience after audience as word spreads across the city. As the plot unfolds, we see an Icarus-style fall from grace as Jack struggles with his ambition to share his creation with the world with his need to keep ownership of his movies. As his grasp on reality and relationship with Amy-Lin starts to slip away Jack, along with the audience, start to question what is real and whether we really care.
The first few scenes in the movie seem muddled in terms of style but it finds its groove as we follow Jack and Amy-Lin deeper into the underworld of its titular city. The directors play around with speed, sound and light to the point where, in most movies, the plot would be lost but, like Jack's films, there's calm within the chaos. With the majority of the film being shot at night, or underground, each shot of Jack or Amy-Lin was done in shadow, concealed by a veil or a reflection, creating an ominous atmosphere where you'renever quite sure if you're seeing the whole picture. The characters often speak of how Jack's film make them see so clearly yet the directors deny the audience that clarity which puts the audience on edge (in a good way).
What is so great about this movie is that it is fiercely independent. It is not constrained by the limits of a brand-orientated producer or (so I learned from the post-screening Q&A) location permits. But there were some limitations; I wish I could have seen more of the actual consequences of Jack's movies rather than the exposition used between scenes. This may have been a budget constraint but with so much tension built through the soundtrack and the shooting of the two leads, I wanted to see more of a physical release from both the principal characters and the ensemble cast.
'Made in Taiwan had a lot to offer in terms of experience, atmosphere and two very strong lead performances. Jeremy and Yang have bags of chemistry and Jeremy's portrayal of Jack's creative genius is both endearing and unnerving, his decreasing instability, that could so easily have been overplayed, intelligent and subtle. Jonny and Leonara Moore are smart and creative directors who are not afraid to take on huge ideas in a huge city and create something very unique and exciting. This young cast and crew are definitely ones to watch for the future. If you get chance to go and watch this film, go; because in a couple of years time, you will be able to say you knew them before they were famous.


text:
It seems marriage has become the topic of ridicule and mockery. The prestige and honor of marriage has been replaced by the glamor and dazzle of bachelorhood and promiscuity. Not that this is anything new.
But honestly, when is the last time you've heard a good word spoken about marriage? When is the last time you've spoken honorably about your spouse?
Think about it. We spend the whole first part of our lives searching for our significant other – someone to spend the rest of our lives with. And then, when we find that person, we grow tired, and spend our time wanting out.
(The Man in the Box is a great book for those who feel this way.)
I, myself, often forget that marriage takes work. I take for granted that I don't have to stress over who I'm going to take out on Friday night (not that that was often), or figure out some clever way to score a girl's phone number (I got numbers to Bill's Plumbing and Domino's quite often).
Then I met Sarabeth. I achieved the Big Yes. When I said "I do," I was 25.
If I live to be a hundred, I've still got 75% of my life to live.
We get this idea in our heads that marriage is the end-all goal, when in fact, things are just beginning!
I love Disney movies. But they repeatedly got one thing wrong with their classic princess movies:
Marriage is once upon a time. Not happily ever after.
Happily ever after is years of commitment and devotion and love in the wake of an elderly couple still holding hands … not the first kiss after slaying the dragon.
The dragon invades our marriages in the form of finances, late oil checks, dirty diapers, dirty kitchens, morning breath, unseemly hair, burnt food, the Hallmark channel, etc.
So, a reminder to married people and to myself: let's begin to treat marriage as the midst of a journey we're trekking through, each bounding toward a certain goal, warding off the dragons together.
To those of you not yet married, start ingraining it into your heads that marriage is the start of a new life, not some early retirement.
I'm thankful to be married to my wife. Her corrections sometimes sting, and my attitude toward her often needs to be checked. But with her help, I am growing and learning, and without a doubt, I am a much better person today because of her than I was eight or ten years ago. (I dress better, too!)
And no matter what, I know she loves me, and I love her, and we never have to worry about who we're going to spend Friday night with.
I only share the best on my new Author Facebook Page.


text:
First, let's just stipulate that CEO Marissa Mayer's decision to decree the end of the work-at-home option for Yahoo employees as of June was, oh, excessively abrupt? Insensitive? Raw meat to a sharklike blogosphere? All of the above?
But there's something refreshing about identifying real value in personal connections and even chance interactions that occur without the filter of an electronic device. Not just social value, but dollar value to a company.
Back in the 1990s, some Silicon Valley commentators thought by now offices would be obsolete and traffic jams would be history as tech workers toiled from home, communicating with colleagues efficiently online. Telecommuting is certainly more common, especially for moms and dads. Some tech companies encourage it. But how fascinating that the industry stars today — Google, Facebook, Apple — do the opposite, lavishing free meals and massages on employees to keep them at the office. And that struggling Yahoo now sees this as a competitive advantage it must somehow match — though the sudden mandate might not have been the best strategy.
The shift will be no surprise to product managers in valley companies that have offshored development work. Chance meetings in the hall used to nip problems in the bud or raise useful ideas. Now, with communication by prescheduled phone calls or video conferences across multiple time zones, the serendipity is gone. Not to mention the good night's sleep.
We revel in our 24/7 digital connections. We email, tweet, post our every move on Facebook, carefully create our circles on Google+. But friending someone isn't the same as being a real friend. That takes a human touch. Often, so does creativity — which is why it turns out to be of value in tech.


text:
Easy to make with a single sheet of 12 x 12" paper - make cute handmade gifts too
Tutorial at Cards Crafts Kids Projects
"My daughter graduated from junior school and we made mini books as year end "Thank you" gifts for my daughter's favorite teachers. These minis are just 3.5 x 3.5 inches and hence were quite easy to make and decorate. Before I share the tutorial here are the details of how this particular mini book's cover looked before it was jazzed up".... Read more


text:
Playboy playmate of the year 2014, Kennedy Summer, has blamed social media for the fall of her relationship with NBA ex-fiance Jeff Withey.
In June she found out that he took another woman on a date (what is wrong with you Jeff?!).
The next month though, Jeff worked his magic (or wallet) and swayed Summer to marry him.
Now, according to Elite Daily, she has broken-off the engagement because she has "many issues" with the Utar Jazz center.
Here he is, with his kit on:
…and with her's off
A representative for the Playmate, Zack Teperman, shed some light on the recent split, saying:
While it has its many pros, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, etc. can also create many issues within a relationship. The negative effects of social media have claimed yet another couple.
According to her Instagram, Summer is a third year medical student with a masters degree.
Beauty and brains…
Apparently Summer is also a bit of a legend on the stock markets.
Right now I'm just face-palming at Jeff and questioning his sanity.
Topics: News


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Name : Mike Wendt
Licensed Professional Counselor
Mike Wendt is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in the use of EEG Biofeedback, commonly known as Neurofeedback, as a focal point of his practice and is certified by the Biofeedback Certification International Association (BCIA). He also incorporates meditation, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques as foundations of treatment.
Mike enjoys working with individuals ages 9 and above to assist them in overcoming issues involving focus, concentration and impulse control, mood regulation, sleep, depression and anxiety. Clients are provided with a custom treatment plan using a combination of researched supported techniques to achieve client goals for both physiological and emotional well-being.


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iMATRI ,a dedicated matrimonial website for Iyer and Iyengar community . The main intention of developing this website is to build a platform to search bride or groom completely free of cost. Now a days every matrimonial website is charging more in the name of different packages...which we want to completely break away from. At the same time we kept the website as simple as possible and easy to use keeping elderly parents who will be using this site.
We do not sell your data for any advertisements or share it with any third party services, we have taken as much precautionary steps as possible to keep your data safe ,including personal information or photographs or any other information pertaining to you.
We also have Iyengar & Iyer matrimony blog page,you can email us any interesting articles or stories to [email protected],which you want to share it with the readers.
We wish you find your ideal partner soon...
Good Luck..


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View of the castle from Princes Street
Edinburgh is the most beautiful place in Europe. Apart from Salzburg. And maybe Prague and Budapest. Anyways, the HPL is currently home in Auld Reekie and I thought I'd share with you some new places I've recently tried, and some favourite old haunts, if you decide to come here for a weekend (4 1/2 hours by train, 1 hour by plane from London). As a caveat, I haven't lived in the 'Burg for years so there may be some other cool places I've overlooked – Edinburgh friends please leave suggestions!
Best time to come is during the festival (mid August to start September) for good weather, a great holiday vibe and late-night openings, fantastic comedy, street theatre and music, or just hang out and drink at festival venues the Spiegeltent (returning in 2010 after a no-show in 2009), the Pear Tree or the Pleasance.
The Royal Mile (St Giles on the right)
1. Monteiths, 61 High Street
Down a little cobbled alleyway off the High Street, Monteiths has a fireplace, bookcases and large tartan comfy chairs as well as a great cocktail bar and outside seating area. Friendly service, great cocktails (glass of prosecco is £6) and decent food including lots of traditional Scottish grub make this a great place for dinner with family and friends especially those new to Edinburgh, or just drinks. There also always seems to be a man in a kilt there every time I go.
2. The Sheep Heid Inn, 43-45 The Causeway, Duddingston, EH15 3QA
A place very close to my heart. This is the oldest pub in Scotland (est. 1360) and in Duddingston village – the other side of Arthur's Seat so a great stop after you've climbed the hill. Has a beer garden, upstairs dining room and downstairs pub; serves real ales, pub grub and traditional Scottish food like haggis neeps and tatties; has a separate skittles alley from the 50s which you can hire out. Coincidentally, both my father and uncle were barred from here in the 60s for god knows what.
3. The Canny Man's, 237 Morningside Rd, EH10 4QU
An Edinburgh institution. Looks like a normal old man's pub from the outside but inside its, well, mental (see piccie below) – walls covered in all sorts, a female mannequin and pram hanging from the ceiling. Came here at lunchtime with el madre for a choice of 89 smorrebrod (open sandwiches) and glass of white wine, and joined a large number of other Morningside ladies who lunch doing the same. Have vague memories of spending misspent youth propping up the bar here – would be a great place to come for a pint.
4. Hectors and Bell's Diner, Stockbridge
Stockbridge is a nice little "village" near the town centre, with the water of Leith running through it and lots of nice little cafes, pubs and delis (I saw it being compared to Notting Hill in an online review, so you get what I mean). I especially like Hectors which always seems to have a nice mixed crowd and is great for drinks or dinner, and Bell's Diner which is a bit of an Edinburgh institution – a small cosy venue serving delicious burgers and slaws, oh and I saw John Hedgley there last time I went during the festival.
5. The Cellar Door, 44-46 George the IV Bridge, EH1 1EJ
This is a great area at night – just off the Royal Mile and above the Grassmarket, its near the University and filled with good bars like Bar Kohl, The Villager and Negotiants, and to a lesser extent Oddfellows (venue for much of my schooldays). Its also near another great and popular restaurant, The Outsider. The Cellar Door is pretty new – service wasn't amazing but the food was good (esp the puds and the steaks looked great) and with the toptable deal you get 20% off the bill. It was £15 each for a decent main, small glass of wine and pud. If you do pass by George IV Bridge – go past the statue of Greyfriar's Bobby and pop into the pub of the same name – read the story here if you don't know it already. Woof.
6. Tony's Table, 58a North Castle Street, EH2 3LU
Quirky place covered with signs like "God gave us fingers before he gave us forks and knives" but with a terrible 70s carpet, we booked through toptable for 3 courses for £18. With a £12 bottle of chardy it came to £25 each so great value. Started with a yummy salmon and prawn mousse, followed by tasty cod and then a great cheese plate. Great value and decent food.
7. Walk up Arthur's Seat, Carlton Hill or Blackford Hill
One of the best things about Edinburgh is that there are 7 hills all lying slap bang in the town centre – I don't know any other capital cities that have the same. All give great views over the spikes and steeples of the city, and on a clear day you can see across the Firth of Forth to Fife.
View from the top of Arthur's Seat
A nice walk is to start on the High Street at the castle and walk down the length of the Royal Mile (taking time to spit on the Heart of Midlothian if you so wish) to Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament. Then you can walk up and over Arthur's Seat taking in the views of Edinburgh and over to Fife, and then end up feeding the ducks at Duddingston Loch and a pint at the Sheep's Heid Inn.
View from the top of Blackford Hill from two days ago – thats Arthur's Seat on the right
8. Other stuff to do if you have time:
- For a posh meal, try The Witchery (by the castle), The Tower (above the Scottish Museum), Harvey Nichols (great view) or Centotre (on George Street – run by the same guys as Valvona & Crolla). The new town/George Street area is a nice place to grab a cocktail beforehand – try the Dome, Grand Cru or Oloroso. UPDATE: I am reminded of a couple of other fantastic restaurants where you get wonderful food (thanks to El G's foodie sister!) – try Michelin-starred Martin Wishart or 21212, and also Daniel's Bistro in Leith.
- Have an Edinburgh chippy. Honestly you Londoners don't know what you're missing. Have anything deep fried accompanied with chips soaked in brown sauce. Nom nom nom.
- Buy food from Edinburgh's best deli, Valvona & Crolla (also recommended by Rosie of Rosie's Deli fame).
- Get scared shitless on a witchery tour of Edinburgh's alleyways, ghost stories and plague-ridden past.
- For a bit of Scottish culture, visit the Camera Obscura, National Gallery, National Gallery of Modern Art and Dean Gallery and National Museum of Scotland.
National Gallery on the Mound
- Go to Murrayfield to watch the rugby and finish up with beers and a chippy in the Grassmarket (try The Last Drop, scene of Edinburgh's last public hangings – you can also buy the t-shirt…)
- For after-beers and cheesy dancing try Tiger Lily, Opal Lounge, Po Na Na, Garibaldi's (I dare you not to pole dance!) and Espionage on Victoria Street. Alternatively head to Darios on Lothian Road where you can get late night pizza and carafes of wine til the wee hours. It's been embarrassingly long since I've been clubbing so here's a list from The List – I used to like City Cafe and Honeycomb (now Cabaret Voltaire) but that was when handbag house was still flavour of the day. Ahem.
- Go to South Queensferry to see the beautiful Forth Road and Rail bridges and if you're brave, try eating ice cream or swimming on one of Edinburgh's beaches like Cramond, Gullane or Portobello (we have them honestly, they're quite nice!).
View from outside Harvey Nicks across to Fife
UPDATE: I asked some Edinburgher friends for comments and was recommended Falko cafe for great bread and taken to the Elephant House for some lovely coffee.
My friend who writes for The List in Edinburgh also sent me this link to their hitlisted restos for 2010. Apparently, lunch at Wedgewoods is £10 for 2 courses and the food is amaazing. Not forgetting Scots like their booze, he also recommends the best cheap take-away at Kebab Mehals for huge quantities and good quality, and suggested you check out The Picture House as a venue where you get consistently good gigs.


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50,000 people marooned in Moulvibazar
Monu, Dhalai and Kushiara rivers are flowing 85cm, 24cm and 53cm respectively above the danger level.
According to Moulavibazar Water Development Board, new areas were inundated after an embankment collapsed at Bishnupur village in Rahimpur union of Kamalganj upazila. Previously, Rampasha, Haktiarkhola, Ghoramara and other villages in the area were flooded after the collapse of an embankment.
Overflow of the Dhalai River waterlogged several villages including Pratapi, Jagannathpur, Jaganshala at Rahimpur union while 300 families were marooned in Khalilpur union.
People of five villages in Bilashpar area of Sreemangal upazila were marooned because of onrush of water from upstream. Flash flood also left hundreds of people in Rajnagar and Kamarchak union marooned.
According to District Administration office, 46,000 people are stranded across Moulavibazar.
Those affected by flood have been provided with 36 metric tons of rice and 1,000 packets of dried food. Two shelter centers have been opened in Sherpur of Sadar upazila.


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The Geneva Shapers are proud to launch their latest project, Reading for Change, which aims to expand access to education for those who need it the most. The idea is simple, but effective: provide the most marginalized communities with digital devices filled with useful educational content. To this end, the Geneva Hub is collecting used digital devices – such as laptops, cell phones, mp3 players – that are considered obsolete and giving them a new, more meaningful life.
On Sunday, 15 March 2015, the Geneva Shapers launched the first phase of the project and delivered IT equipment and other digital devices to EspaceSolidairePaquis (ESP), a leading community-based organization that offers shelter and meaningful skills training for migrants, homeless people and other vulnerable individuals. Through the contribution of Procter & Gamble Geneva and several private donations, the Shapers were able to provide ESP with over 20 devices, including laptops, cell phones, mp3 players and e-readers. All of them were filled with French language courses, both for beginners and more advanced speakers.
Thanks to these devices, ESP will increase its language and IT course offering and provide more services to the over 15,000 beneficiaries.
But this is not just a one-off event. The Geneva Hub hopes to scale up Reading for Change and reach more people in need with better access to education. We are planning to bring Reading for Change in developing countries and to establish new partnerships. Here is where we need your help: please visit our website ( http://www.readingforchange.ch/ ) and find out how you can contribute.
With your support, we CAN make this happen!
Reading for Change website:
Reading for Change video: https://vimeo.com/122183076
For more information on the project, please contact Erik Abrahamsson firstname.lastname@example.com


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One of the biggest trends to hit the home building industry over the past couple of decades is the green building movement. "Going Green," as it's known, is all about creating houses that make efficient use of natural resources and have as small a carbon footprint as possible.
For homeowners, going green is a great way of living responsibility by using our limited natural resources in as judicious a manner as possible. Besides the benefits to the environment, green homes offer their owners significant savings on their long-term utility expenses.
The only problem here is that retro-fitting older homes to today's rigorous green standards can be anything but affordable. That's because most components of green building are housed deep in home's internal systems such as plumbing and electric.
Fortunately, there are a few green features that can be affordably integrated into just about any single family home, condominium, or apartment. Here's a few ways of getting green in your home, without losing the green in your wallet.
Control the Flow
How much water do you use every month? If you're like most homeowners, you probably have a really good idea how much your monthly water bill comes out to, but you've got little idea how many gallons of water that actually equates to in sum.
The problem here is that most houses use a lot more water than they actually need to and most of what they do use goes right down the, literal, drain in the form of waste. Fortunately, cutting down your water flow is one of the easiest green fixes you can find.
Simply installing a low flow showerhead, a simple project that requires no special skills, can save as much as 43% annually on your water bill. That's a pretty impressive return on investment (ROI) for a piece of hardware that costs around $20. You can also install a flow meter if you'd like to know exactly how much water you're using on a daily or monthly basis.
Xeriscape Your Yard
Though you may not even know it, that lovely green grass that surrounds your home is a major drain on the earth's resources and your own pocketbook. The standard sod and shrubbery that's used for landscaping in most parts of the country is anything but efficient when it comes to retaining moisture.
If you're really interested in green living, we suggest you take a look at the benefits offered by xeriscaping. This relatively new landscaping concept utilizes native grasses and shrubs that make efficient use of the natural resources in your area.
If you're in a desert area like Phoenix, xeriscaping is going to involve a lot of cactus and rock features. In the Pacific Northwest, where rain is abundant, xeriscaping uses local trees with firm roots that can take purchase in the moist soil.
At the end of the day, there are dozens of great ways to go green without taking out a second mortgage on your home. If you embrace even a couple of these suggestions, you'll be doing future generations a major favor by using natural resources in a responsible manner. And if you save a few bucks on your utility bills while doing so, that's all the better.


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Spring has officially started, so therefore we could expect a lovely sunny day.
After making a fool of myself with my brake levers (don't ask) I rectified the problem and set off for a practice lap. The course was fairly flat, but very tight and twisty, a couple of fireroad sections to get some speed up on but not many, much more interesting than the opening round a couple of weeks ago Although it was fairly warm and sunny, warm enough for shorts anyway, the ground was still quite wet and slippery.
I returned to the van after practice and ran into Chloe, Derailed Racing's Team-Mum who kindly volunteered to pass me the vital Bikefood bottles during the race.
|Photograph of the start, courtesy of Jacob James
The start was some way from the main arena, and slightly uphill to give us chance to spread out a little before it got too narrow. I got a reasonable start hanging on to the back of the main pack, right behind Chris Aucot and my former team-mate Andrew Cockburn. I got passed Chris in the second section of singletrack and began to pull away, but it was short lived. I'm not sure what happened but one minute I was charging along a traverse through the trees and the next I was laying in a heap on the ground. I looked up just in time to see Chris sliding down the hill, both brakes locked. He had nowhere to go other than straight into me. I heard a shout from Phil Morris, and then he ploughed into the back of Chris. We untangled ourselves and set off again, with me at the back, Andrew long gone by now. I had a small amount of blood coming from my hip but was otherwise unhurt.
We had a little rain on the second lap, but not a great deal and a line was starting form through most of the corners. However, about halfway through the third lap we got our first hail shower, enough to settle a little, it actually looked quite pretty. It lasted until about halfway through the fourth lap, the melting ice making the ground much stickier and harder going.
Just starting the sixth and final lap there was a huge clap of thunder, followed almost straight away by the second, much heavier, period of hail which lasted for most of the lap, although fortunately with no more thunder, the promised storm never quite materialised. The last lap was quite miserable, cold and wet, with the ground now really sticky and slippery.
I eventually crossed the line in 16th place, a little disappointing as there are points available for the top 15.
Next weekend is the first round of both the National Endurance Series, at Whinlatter in the Lake District, and the National Cross-Country Series at Sherwood. I'll be at Whinlatter, it's a shame to miss my local race but the longer race should suit me better.