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Lisa DiNoto decided to treat herself as her sons returned to class. On their first day back, DiNoto visited Disney's Magic Kingdom ALONE.
Yes, that's right she went SOLO!
DiNoto lives about one mile away from the park in Florida and proudly wore a pin that said she was celebrating the first day of school.
DiNoto did not feel guilty about going to the park by herself because she visits Disney several times a year with her husband and kids. Parents that were there with their children praised DiNoto for going to the park alone.
Click here to check out her full experience.


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OrangeScape fast-tracks Lotus Notes Migration in partnership with CIMtrek
OrangeScape, a Global 10 Platform as a Service provider, has announced a partnership with CIMTrek Ltd, a leader in the automated migration of Lotus Notes applications. Enterprises will now have fast-track migration of the Lotus Domino Applications to a modern cloud based application on OrangeScape platform. This solution will be bundled into OrangeScape's offering to their mutual customers enabling the rapid transition of apps from Lotus Notes to the Cloud.
Migrating from Lotus, to Google or Microsoft, typically starts with email and calendars. However this remains incomplete and painful until Domino Applications are also addressed. OrangeScape recently announced its Lotus Notes Migration offering, an alternative Visual PaaS platform on the cloud that provides a smooth transition for Domino Developers. This partnership further strengthens OrangeScape's Lotus Notes migration solution by significantly reducing the time, cost and effort for customers planning to move from Lotus Notes to a cloud infrastructure such as Google or Microsoft.
A key problem in migrating Domino Applications to any platform is finding a target platform with a development environment similar to what seasoned Domino Developers are used to. OrangeScape addresses this by providing a 100% Visual Development Environment with application deployment choices to either public, private or hybrid clouds. OrangeScape's Visual, Drag-and-drop, modelling based Development Environment provides the perfect transition for Lotus Domino like applications to the cloud.
Suresh Sambandam, founder and CEO of OrangeScape, summarised the partnership; "Enterprise IT Leaders are actively looking to invest into strategic initiatives such as adopting Cloud/PaaS, enterprise mobility and the like. Unfortunately, the majority of their current IT budget is often tied to maintaining and supporting legacy platforms like Lotus Notes. Progressive thinking IT leaders, however, now have an option that is a double win. Not only can they migrate away from Lotus Notes, but they can also migrate to a modern platform-as-a-service technology thereby achieving double benefit. We're excited about this partnership as it not only allows our customers to reduce their migration services cost, but it also allows them to more efficiently embark into modern technologies rather than maintaining the status quo".
CIMTrek is an international software company, based in the UK, established to provide the tools to help end user organisations understand the magnitude of the migration journey to the cloud, and to automate that migration. CIMtrek has developed a set of tools that specifically help customers migrate away from the legacy Lotus Notes platform.
"These are exciting times and we're delighted with this partnership with OrangeScape." adds Jon Pyke, founder and CEO of CIMtrek. "CIMtrek has been committed to empowering Enterprises and helping them move away from legacy platforms such as IBM Lotus. OrangeScape is an excellent target platform on the cloud for migrating Lotus Domino Applications. Our complimentary technologies provide both tremendous synergy and significant opportunity in offering an automated migration solution for OrangeScape which translates to a real benefit and ultimate migration success for our mutual customers."
The companies will offer this option, bundled into OrangeScape's platform, to those customers looking to accelerate their Lotus Notes migration effort. The unique and fully automated Discovery and Analysis Phase followed by the automatic migration of meta-data, UI forms and critical business information significantly minimises the risk & cuts down time-to-market. This solution is not just a runtime migration; it is a migration to the development platform of the future where state of the art enhancements and modernisation are also achieved. This bundled solution is available to customers worldwide only through OrangeScape.
About OrangeScape
OrangeScape is a rare breed of Technology Company founded in 2003 with customers and partners in the US, India, UK & Europe. OrangeScape is one of the Global 10 Cloud Platform-as-a-Service providers featured in PaaS reports of Gartner and Forrester. OrangeScape provides a model driven visual development environment for creating business applications that can be deployed on major public cloud platforms, like Google App Engine or Microsoft Azure, or on private cloud environments. OrangeScape has a marquee customer list including United Biscuits, India Infoline, Unilever, Citibank, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Sterlite, Fullerton, Geojit and other large enterprises.
For more information, please visit: http://www.orangescape.com
About CIMtrek
CIMTrek is an international software company based in the UK, which was established in 2009 to provide the tools that help end user organisations understand the magnitude of the migration journey to the cloud, and to automate that migration. CIMtrek has developed a set of tools that migrate legacy applications, such as IBM's Lotus Notes, to whichever cloud platform best meets the business need. Within a year of being established CIMtrek was recognised as a cool vendor by Gartner.
For more information please visit: http://www.cimtrek.com .

subset: commoncrawl


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Many of our articles are available to registered users only. Please Login or Register for full access to our article library.
Disaster Recovery Resources (See Downloadable PDF)
We have pulled together some tools for individuals and businesses impacted by the CA Wildfires. A downloadable PDF version is provided at the bottom of this article.
IRS provides relief for CA Wildfire Impact (Updated 10/16/17)
The IRS has provided extended deadlines for parties impacted by the California Wildfires. (See downloadable PDF version.)
Don't let your holiday song end with "13 lawyers litigating…"
While the mistletoe kissing tradition might sound like a harmless holiday game, when it happens at your company's employee gathering, you could be facing a sexual harassment claim.
New Reporting Requirements under the Affordable Care Act apply to 2016 filings
Certain employers who provided health care coverage to employees in 2015 will be subject to new reporting requirements when they file information returns with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) beginning in February of 2016.
As the dust settles
Tips for dealing with the earthquake cleanup


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RELEASE UPDATE: Saturday drops the Foot Locker exclusive Nike Tuned 1 OG 'Purple'.
Store open hours - Usual Opening Hours
Please note releases and release dates are subject to change – please check the blog closer to the release date for confirmation and updates.
Nike Tuned 1 'OG Purple' $290.00^
Available SATURDAY 14TH DECEMBER from all Foot Locker stores.
Please note: Product details and price are subject to change.
^Limited Release Guidelines / Rules:
*No holds unless allocated via an in app launch (customers or Foot Locker employees)
*No laybys or transfers within 7 days of release date
*Customers may purchase only one (1) pair of limited release shoes per SKU transaction
*No more than three (3) pairs across 3 separate transactions may be sold to one customer without consent from Foot Locker head office via our Store Managers
*Locker 10% member discount cannot be applied to Limited Releases within 7 days of release date.
*Locker Discounts/Rewards cannot be applied to Limited Releases unless otherwise specified in offer terms and conditions. Locker terms apply.
*All employees must follow the same release procedures as other customers
*See here for full launch app Terms and Conditions -http://www.footlocker.co.nz/launchappterms


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Plan to hire in several areas; AI and cognitive among technologies to have greatest impact on business transformation.
Santa Clara, California, 18 July - To support emerging cognitive technologies such as cognitive computing, cognitive automation and robotics process automation, technology companies expect to increase hiring in several functions, including management, over the next 3 years, according to a new report by KPMG International, the audit, tax and advisory services organization.
The report, "Innovation convergence unlocks new paradigms," provides insights and highlights key findings about innovation and emerging technologies from two surveys – KPMG's 2017 Global CEO Outlook and KPMG's Global Technology Industry Innovation survey. See report (PDF 3.11 MB).
Over 75 percent of tech CEOs surveyed said they expect to increase headcount in IT to support the emergence of cognitive technologies; 64 percent anticipate increases in middle management; 62 percent in customer service; and 60 percent in sales and production. More than half anticipate increasing headcount in finance, research, HR, and marketing, with 43 percent expecting to add to senior management.
"The tech CEOs' commitment to hire across the board shows the strategic value they see in cognitive technologies, and they are building the organizational structure their company will require to execute their strategy," said Tim Zanni, global and US chair of KPMG's Technology, Media and Telecommunications practice.
Cognitive is expected to be among the most impactful technologies for businesses. KPMG's report highlights that the Internet of Things, robotics and artificial intelligence/cognitive are the top technologies that will drive business transformation across all industries over the next 3 years, according to KPMG's tech innovation survey of technology industry business leaders globally.
"The convergence of emerging technologies is creating new market value and displacing existing products and services," said Zanni. "These technologies are driving profound changes in industries and business models as well as life, society and the environment."
Yet even as disruptive technologies develop rapidly, business leaders in the innovation survey have identified the top three factors that constrain innovation: platform consolidation, the ability to demonstrate return on investment and access to capital.
For business leaders to address platform consolidation, Zanni emphasized that they must be thorough in their innovation roadmap and "should assess the major platform companies and the disruption they are leading across products, industries, and business models." He underscored that "key considerations include defending against these platform companies, participating in their ecosystem, or becoming a platform."
The impact of emerging technologies is driving companies across industries to consider new ways to address and navigate the disruption. In the new report, KPMG defines its vision of the 21st century enterprise and how the workforce of the future, customer engagement, everything as a service, and the changing nature and value of assets are essential to companies finding a competitive edge.
"Platform companies are leading this revolution as the platform business model is one of the enablers of the redefined 21st century enterprise. All organizations should quickly understand that incremental innovations are not enough. This revolution requires companies to transform their organization across all functions and operations," said Zanni.
Innovation convergence unlocks new paradigms and consists of key findings from the 2017 KPMG Global CEO survey of more than 1,200 CEOs (92 tech CEOs) across 11 key industries, conducted between February and April of 2017; and from the KPMG Global Technology Industry Innovation survey of 841 global technology industry leaders, representing startups, mid-market enterprises, large tech companies, and venture capital firms, conducted in November 2016.
Mike Alva
KPMG in the US
(415) 963-5426
KPMG is a global network of professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. We operate in 152 countries and have 189,000 people working in member firms around the world. The independent member firms of the KPMG network are affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative ("KPMG International"), a Swiss entity. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such.
Request for proposal


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Tongue twisting rapper, Quata has agreed with musician Mr Eazi, who received a lot of backlash for saying that Ghana's influence on Nigerian music cannot be over emphasised.
According to Quata, some Nigerians have been sampling songs from some of Ghana's top music producers.
On Wednesday, Mr Eazi tweeted: "Ghana's influence on present day "Naija Sound" cannot be over emphasized!!!".
This tweet sparked a lot of controversy on social media with insults, mostly from Nigerian subscribers.
Speaking in an interview with Doreen Avio of Joy News, Quata said that Nigerians have been sampling beats from several producers like Appietus, Jay-Q and Hammer.
According to him, Nigerians have been incorporating Ghanaian music into theirs. He also added that, Ghana is the apex in Africa and almost everybody took a bit from the country's music.
"They were sampling tunes from us and were refining what we do to make theirs," he stressed.
The rapper added that, he can say for a fact that Nigerians understudied us and the likes of 2face Idibia came to Ghana secretly to record their songs.
"They only knew [we did] proper – hundred percent – recording in Ghana.
That's why most of their artistes came here secretly to record. The engineers were smart enough to do what we were doing, study it, and adapt the style. They understudied us," he explained.
Other music artistes like Ghanaian rapper Kojo Cue, M.anifest and others have also agreed with Mr Eazi, who is a Nigerian-born artiste.
Join GhanaStar.com to receive daily email alerts of breaking news in Ghana. GhanaStar.com is your source for all Ghana News. Get the latest Ghana news, breaking news, sports, politics, entertainment and more about Ghana, Africa and beyond.


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The report "Renewables 2018″, published today by IEA, illustrates renewable energies development and integration within world energy system in 2017 as well as it provides forecasts for the 2018-2023 period.
By addressing the global state-of-the-art of renewable energies, this report shines a light on modern bioenergy, one of the the blind spots, i. e. crucial yet underestimated issues, of our energy systems.
Modern bioenergy will have the biggest growth in renewable resources between 2018 and 2023, underscoring its critical role in building a robust renewable portfolio and ensuring a more secure and sustainable energy system, according to the International Energy Agency's latest market forecast.
Renewables will continue their expansion in the next five years, covering 40% of global energy consumption growth, according to the IEA's Renewable 2018 market analysis and forecast report. Their use continues to increase most rapidly in the electricity sector, and will account for almost a third of total world electricity generation in 2023. Because of weaker policy support and additional barriers to deployment, renewables use expands far more slowly in the transport and heat sectors.
While the growth in solar PV and wind is set to continue in the electricity sector, bioenergy remains the largest source of renewable energy because of its widespread use in heat and transport, sectors in which other renewables currently play a much smaller role.
Modern bioenergy is the overlooked giant of the renewable energy field, said Dr Fatih Birol, the IEA's Executive Director. Its share in the world's total renewables consumption is about 50% today, in other words as much as hydro, wind, solar and all other renewables combined. We expect modern bioenergy will continue to lead the field, and has huge prospects for further growth. But the right policies and rigorous sustainability regulations will be essential to meet its full potential.
To read full IEA Press release about "Renewables 2018″ click here.
The full report analyses several regional cases while focusing three main sectors, that is electricity, heat and transport. It also highlights policy and market improvements that may unlock potentialities of renewable energy in electricity and transport sectors while underlying the untapped potential of sustainable bioenergy and other renewable sources. Furthermore, for the first time this report includes a "Q&A" section related to the latest development in renewable energy markets. Most of all, the report raises some important issues that are worthy to focus on.
Production Issue and Novel Advanced Biofuels
A higher production of advanced biofuels is vital for the long-term decarbonisation of the transport sector. As technologies to produce biodiesel and HVO from non-food competing feedstock such as waste oils and animal fats are determining a production increase, competition to access raw material is intensifying. For this reason, other novel advanced biofuel technologies at a lower Technological Readiness Level (TRL), such as cellulosic ethanol and diesel substitute fuels from thermochemical processes, needs to be developed. This specific increase within biofuels production needs to be supported by facilities construction and retrofitting: because of difficulties to attract investment after the first phase, policy is crucial.
Sustainable Aviation Biofuels on The Way to Take Off
The challenge within the aviation sector is to reduce emissions despite increasing aviation activity: for this purpose, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has committed to carbon-neutral growth from 2020 and to reducing CO2 emissions 50% from the 2005 level by 2050. The CORSIA instrument will be the main feature of this strategy: such vision comprises biofuels covering 2% of international aviation demand in the medium term.
Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) is a key way to meet the ICAO's long-term decarbonisation goals, but production is still low. There are only five aviation biofuel viable industrial production pathways meeting specifications and industry specifications and approved for blending with fossil jet kerosene. However, only one – hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids synthetic paraffinic kerosene (HEFA-SPK) fuel – is currently commercialised and will therefore represent the main biofuel used in aviation during the 2018-2023 period. HEFA+, a fuel like HVO but used in road applications, could be approved for use in aviation only by late 2018.
A stronger policy support is needed as well, as aviation biofuels currently cost more than fossil jet kerosene and this cost premium is a key barrier to market uptake. Furthermore, additional facilities need to be constructed and operated. Because of these issues, ongoing investment in pre-treatment research and development to access enough low-carbon feedstocks and pursuing technological development are essential.
A Need For an Acceleration in Policy Implementation
A strong sustainability framework as well as government policies and incentives are crucial in terms of attracting investments and ensuring proper market design and reliable and cost-effective system integration. Auctions will be the primary policy mechanism driving utility-scale renewable electricity capacity expansion over 2018-2023, whereas trade barriers hamper renewable energies technology development and therefore renewables growth. Policy effort occurred in 2017, but much more still has to be done.
To read full IEA "Renewables 2018″ report click here.


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Fly TippingPublished on Sunday, 23 November 2014 10:29 Hits: 3237
Category: General News
Durham County Council (DCC) is taking a firm view on fly tipping (quite right too in the view of Mickleton Parish Council) and has produced 2 posters to highlight the penalties for fly tipping and what your responsibilities are when it comes to disposing of waste.To do it properly and legally 'aint rocket science and DCC provides the facilities to do it properly and legally just up the road
Do remember that Mickleton enjoys a Community Recycling Area just a mile up the road on the way to Middleton in Teesdale.
Please dispose of your waste carefully.
The posters reproduced below can be downloaded here :- Fly Tipping Poster (103.71 kB) and here Fly Tipping Poster (96.51 kB)


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Albuquerque Hiking
Best Local Hikes Home | Mountain West Home
Your Guide
New Mexico Mountain Club (pages.swcp.com/~nmmc)
Your Hikes
» Embudo-Whitewash Loop Need a break from dust-and-cactus terrain? Escape to the white cliffs and mountain air of this 9.5-mile loop. Start at the Three Gun Spring trailhead and bring binoculars in spring: The canyon lies on a migration route for more than 20 species of raptors, including the zone-tailed hawk and the black-shouldered kite. When runoff is high, follow a seasonal creek uphill (at .5 mile) to a waterfall. Miles from city center 16; Trip ID16919
» La Luz Trail, Cibola NF Ascend nearly 3,800 feet from desert floor to alpine forest on this 14-mile round-trip quad-burner. Granite fins and big vistas of the distant Sangre de Cristo Mountains make this the "classic, iconic hike in the Sandia Mountains," says the club's Will Hoffman. Drained at the summit? Save knees and halve the distance by descending on the Sandia Peak Tramway ($12; sandiapeak.com). Miles from city center 18; Trip ID775425
» Red Canyon/Spruce Spring Loop, Cibola NF This 7.4-mile hike through the lightly traveled Manzano Mountains offers blooming geraniums and pine drops in spring, ripe gooseberries and raspberries in summer, aspen colors in fall, and solitude year-round. "You get a break from the crowds in the Sandias, and fewer hikers means a greater chance of seeing wildlife—even bears," says club president David Smith. Miles from city center 58; Trip ID775426


text: Disabled Artists Survey: what did we learn? How easy is it for disabled musicians to do their job? The Musicians' Union and Attitude is Everything investigate. From Beethoven to Blaine Harrison, disabled musicians have long had a lasting impact upon the musical landscape. So this Disability History Month, the Musicians' Union and Attitude is Everything asked the question 'just how easy is it for them to do their job?' Here's what we found… The majority of disabled musicians have lost work due to lack of access 'It's difficult to know how much work I lose because I have stopped approaching venues I don't know due to having to explain my access needs.' 'I have lost 5-10% of bookings in the past year because I use a wheelchair.' 'I have to turn down gigs because of access limitations.' Being able to get into the performance space is the minimum Many respondents identified stages which are only accessible via climbing on to (either straight on or via stairs) the stage as a major issue, including those who do not require wheelchairs. One respondent further noted the problems accessing orchestra pits, which are similarly often only accessible via stairs. 'Getting into the venue and onto the stage are the two most common barriers.' 'So few stages have wheelchair access that I usually perform at floor level in front of the stage' Many toilets are used as store rooms Accessible toilets backstage are rare, but when they are present they often 'double up' as store rooms, meaning disabled people are often caught short, especially wheelchair users whose power chairs cannot manoeuvre in a room already filled to the brim. 'It's very humiliating having to go outside for a pee.' 'Don't use your disabled toilet as a storeroom please.' This is just the beginning These are just some of the results. Read more over at Attitude Is Everything. Attitude is Everything and Musicians' Union are planning to follow up with respondents to find out what can be done to increase opportunities for disabled musicians. Specifically we want to look into artists' rights when their access requirements aren't met when offered performances. If you're interested in taking part, please contact firstname.lastname@example.com. Find out more about the MU's Equalities work and get involved. Published: 16/12/2015 Join the MU for £1 Get six months free


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Inglewood Police Chief Jacqueline Seabrooks spoke publicly yesterday about the killing of an unarmed man by two of her officers early Sunday morning. KPCC's Frank Stoltze reports the chief also tried to explain what happened.
Frank Stoltze: Before she faced questions from reporters, Seabrooks issued a short statement.
Police Chief Jacqueline Seabrooks: I want to express my sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Michael Byoune, the deceased.
Stoltze: Police shot 19-year-old Michael Byoune as he sat in a car outside a Rally's Hamburger Restaurant. They wounded another man. A third escaped injury. Seabrooks acknowledged the men were unarmed. She said two officers fired into the car because it was coming at them, and because someone jumped into it amid gunfire moments before.
Seabrooks: That car was being driven at them. They heard rounds being fired. One of the officers believed, and correctly so, actually both of them believed, that they were under fire.
Stoltze: The chief says it appears the gunfire was coming from another direction. She did not identify the officers; she said one is a five-year veteran and the other is a rookie. Both are on paid administrative leave. Jackie Roberts is the dead man's mother.
Jackie Roberts: I would like to know why you guys killed my son? What reason? What was the reason?
Stoltze: Roberts said that her son never got into any trouble, and that he had talked of finding a safer place to live.
Roberts: He just wanted to get out of L.A. because he was afraid. 'Cause he was big for his age. You know, when you're big for your age, you know, people feel threatened.
Stoltze: In this case, police never got a good look at Byoune. He reportedly was sitting in the back seat when he took at least one bullet to the chest. Police Chief Seabrooks, on the job just eight months in Inglewood, now faces an immediate test of her promise to improve the department.


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Universal Bank Internet Banking Login is one of those facilities provided by the bank to its customers. The Universal Bank is a financial system that offers a broad array of financial services to its clients. At the bank, you might find a checkings account, savings account and all kinds of commercial and personal banking solutions. For online account access, you will be needed to enroll in online banking login.
Once logged in the user will be required to view account statements, enroll for auto payments, print transaction history, make payments, add an authorized user and more. Read the guide below for Universal Bank Login, Universal Bank Routing Number, Universal Bank Customer Service, and Locations.
How to Log into Universal Bank
Step 1– Customers who wish to approach their account online must open the homepage (universalbank.com) of the bank. Scroll to the bottom of the web page that opens. At the bottom of the screen, you will find the "Online Banking" Section.
Step 2– Select your account type from the drop-down menu, enter your user id and then click "Sign In".
Step 3– User will be directed to the login page where they require providing their password and finally press 'Submit'. If the login particulars provided are correct you will be lead to your account dashboard.
Forgot Password
Password recovery has been made much easier by the bank. Now you need not worry with the customer service lines and go through other hassles. Just follow the steps below and set a new password for your banking account.
Step 1– Open the home screen of the bank and scroll till the online banking section, look for the "Forgot Password" link towards the right of the section.
Step 2– Click on the link and user will be navigated to the forgotten password page. Here you need to enter your access id, last 4 digits of tax id number, and email address registered with the bank. Click on 'Submit' and a new password will be sent by the bank.
How to Enroll
Step 1– Select the "Enroll" link which is located towards the right of the online banking section on the official web page of the bank.
Step 2– User will be taken ahead to the enrollment page. Provide the requested details in the fields below and press 'Submit' to proceed to with the verification. Once your account is confirmed you will be directed to the online banking console.
Bank Info
|Headquarter Address
|Official Website
|Routing Number
|Receiving Bank ABA
|Customer Service Contact Number
|Find a Universal Bank Near Me
|Android App


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Aakron - Rollup Inflatables
Fishing, diving, or just quietly exploring the hidden corners of our beautiful coastline: You can't beat an Aakron inflatable to get you there efficiently and safely.
AAKRON Yachtmaster
Explore out rollup inflatable boats range.
AAKRON Beachmaster
Explore out rollup boats range.
Java Rollup Inflatables
Java inflatable tenders are lightweight, compact and built with a functionality-first approach. The ideal boat for exploring the golden beaches of Aotearoa.
JAVA Air Floor Series
Explore our air floor rollup boats.
JAVA Alloy Floor Series
Explore our alloy floor rollup boats.


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Wikipedia Art
Nathaniel Stern and Scott Kildall "Wikipedia Art" project, which was deleted by Wikipedia users soon after it went live, was intended as an artistic intervention in the open yet closely regulated space of Wikipedia. Considering the context, it is unsurprising that the project was so short-lived. In the artist's statement, Kildall and Stern claim that the work "MUST BE written about extensively both on- and off-line" and, indeed, it did generate ample debate. Check the Rhizome Discussion board for a conversation related to the function of truth on Wikipedia, as well as the discussion section for the Wikipedia Art entry itself, where users consider the place of an art project of this type within Wikipedia.
annoying cursor .com (2009) - Rafael Rozendaal
Kill Your Television
Today, the Berkeley Art Museum/ Pacific Film Archive, Berkeley Center for New Media, and Long Now Foundation will host what author Bruce Sterling calls a "Dead Media hootenanny." The Funeral for Analog TV will be a full day of revelry, capped-off by the kind of pseudo-event perhaps not seen by the Bay Area since Ant Farm's Media Burn. Attendees of the festive wake are encouraged to bring their analog TV sets to pile on an electronic heap which will simulate a snow crash at the end of the night. Though the US Congress recently extended the deadline by which all broadcasting television signals must legally be converted to digital HD, Sterling says the event is moving ahead as originally scheduled "because we prefer to bury a fresh corpse rather than wait for the walking dead to fall over." As the organizer of the Dead Media Project, Sterling knows a thing or two about the carcasses left behind as a result of technological upgrades. He joins a lineup of people that includes media historian Paul Saffo, artist collective Neighborhood Public Radio, and sound artist Author & Punisher in marking this rite of obsolescence. The organizers point out that it's only fitting that the funeral service be held in the Bay Area, given that the system for broadcasting and receiving TV signals was invented there. But if you can't make it to the West Coast to hear the eulogy, fear not. The event's penultimate "scattering of the ashes" will be an online rebroadcasting of the program. - Marisa Olson
Takeshi Murata Screening and Talk Tonight at EAI
Tonight at 6:30pm, artist Takeshi Murata will screen a selection of his recent works and upcoming projects at Electronic Arts Intermix. This will be followed by a discussion with EAI's Josh Kline. Murata has developed his own unique method of processing digital glitches and errors to produce his vivid abstract videos and animations. An innovator in the field of digital video, the event this evening will be his first artist's talk in New York City. Not to be missed!
Facebook Retracts Modification to Terms of Use
The New York Times announced this morning that Facebook would revert back to its previous terms of service. The decision comes in response to enormous outcry and protest about the modification, which would allow the site to retain and use one's content even after an account has been deleted. This is an unprecedented move, and it invites serious questions regarding one's ownership over material distributed on social networking platforms. (For a thorough comparison between Facebook's new terms of service and that of other social networking sites, go here.) While the decision by Facebook may come as a relief, the company still plans to eventually revise the terms again, which would "...reflect 'a new aproach' and would be 'a substantial revision from where we are now.'" Uh, vague! And creepy. While the company's CEO Mark Zuckerberg claims that Facebook users would somehow be involved in the revision process, he did not outline what this change might look like, nor the company's motive behind these changes.
Required Reading
"The technical computer specialists, on the other hand, have to become aware of the potential contribution of the artists, develop a respect for their pattern perceiving and pattern generating abilities, for their trained sensitivity to the exploration of novelty, their ability to select what is most significant; indeed—at their best—to make concrete the future before it happens, before we can define it, formalize it and verbalize it." - Leslie Mezei
Organizing the Unpredictable
The 2008 works by British artist Tim Knowles and Swiss duo Pe Lang + Zimoun that are teamed up in Unpredictable Forms of Sound and Motion, curated by Steve Sacks at bitforms gallery, leave a bit less to chance than the title implies. The technology-driven pieces in the show take ideas originating in 60s and 70s land art, musical minimalism, and performance art, and situates them within constraints reminiscent of a scientific experiment. The result is that the works emerge as concrete entities, rather than as transient, site-specific or dematerialized experiences.


text: D091: 4fleas Tablets for Small Dogs & Puppies. New size. Contains 3 > tablets (3 Treatment Pack).> For use with Dogs & Puppies over 4 weeks of age between 1 & 11kg. Starts > killing fills in 15 minutes. Kills all fleas on pets in 24 hours. No contra-indications. Safe to use with other flea and worm treatments, leaves no residue on their coat or in the home.


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Reach for the clouds and touch the rainbow from the Observation Deck and enjoy a 360 degree view of the Park as the tower rises to the skies.
Ride Restrictions:
To ride alone, rider must be above 6 years old with a min height of 120cm.
Riders/ guest below 120cm must be accompanied by another person who should be at least 16 years old.


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By Hans Ebert
Many want to put the house in order- and put Humpty Dumpty back together again- but, gawd knows, it's not easy when there's such a lack of genuine musical talent, creativity and originality around. It's enough to make a grown man cry into his bowl of wonton noodles.
That's not being cruel, just being brutally honest about what's keeping the music scene in Hong Kong from going anywhere except where it's been going for almost three decades- back to mimicking the current hits, or playing this flaccid stuff some suffering from delusional behaviour believe to be "Jazz", or, if young enough, and with the mandatory K-Pop accessories- new nose, lips, chin, eyes and forehead- selling your soul and becoming a Canto Pop moppet.
It's not exclusive to Hong Kong, but does the world need another soundalike- another Ed Sheeran, or Adele, or Rihanna etc- and especially out of a city not exactly known for its music? Cheap suits, yes. Music? Never, which is weird when one thinks back to those original Shanghai Divas and when that city was known as the Paris of the Orient.
Is there a way to remedy this problem by creating a sound that is intrinsically Hong Kong without going back in time to all the clichés of East-West musical doodling and adding an erhu and bibs and bobs of someone wailing away in Putonghua? Didn't many of us try variations on this theme with varying degrees of success when World Music had heard enough of Peter Gabriel chanting "Biko" and was looking towards some Rainbow Connection that never materialised? We thought it would when approached by some of our musical heroes from the West, but all those conversations about projects turned out to be pocketful of mumbles that are sometimes promises.
Can there ever be a Made In Hong Kong sound- and please let this not be Canto Pop. Canto Pop only made sense when singer-songwriter Sam Hui fused his knowledge of chords from songs by the Beatles, the Zombies, Searchers, Kinks etc with the mood and humour of this city through his Cantonese lyrics and vocal delivery. But that was over forty years ago.
Canto Pop today is purely style over substance, and where plodding ballads based around a song like "Casablanca" or "Desperado" are churned out at some canoodling factory and with the magic of it all coming together when given to a hairstylist and set designer. Singer-actor and former dancer Aaron Kwok riding out onstage for a concert at the Coliseum on a horse and dressed like the French Lieutenant's Wife might be a spectacle for his fans, but it has nothing to do with music. It's to do with a three-ring circus.
Damon Albarn, Jamie Hewlett along with actor and director Chen Shi-Zheng, who conceived the idea, made a stab at "Westernising" Chinese music with their stage show "Monkey: Journey To The West", but, though ambitious, and probably done for all the right reasons, "Monkey" was a bit of a jumbled mongrel with too many involved in what was just another running dog that never raised a yelp as the music fell on deaf ears. It was a musical chop suey. An unattractive Eurasian.
The real problem with trying to create original music in Hong Kong are the lack of collaborators. There are many who believe they're original and "get it", but they don't. Not when they ask for "references", and return with copycat versions. The bigger problem is that they don't hear it. Or pretend they don't.
There are many technically good musicians in Hong Kong, but having to eke out a living playing covers, and with any free time spent learning more covers, making that quantum leap to actually creating bona fide original music and seeing the Big Picture regarding what to do with this end product, is lost on them. It's simply not in their DNA to see any further, and actually think and look beyond the next gig.
Guess the next gig is what pays the rent, and many are staring down the barrel of the gun called uncertainty and reality bites. But, if so, let's not make false promises about being able to deliver, and then play for time. This wastes everyone's time. This isn't a collaboration. This is procrastination because Truth Time is up, and the guilty parties not wishing to be seen as a cast member of "Lost".
It's extremely tough to teach people what they will never comprehend, so finding the right collaborators, especially in something as subjective as music, often becomes an exercise in futility. They waste your time, and you waste theirs. The marriage is not a blessed union. And in Hong Kong's small talent pool, a major factor in music not going anywhere is that there are not enough creative musicians to take it anywhere. Where's there to take it, anyway? Peel Fresco? Orange Peel? Grappa's? And what happens there- or anywhere in this city that has 'live' music? Nothing except for chump change, some random doodling, and a smattering of applause.
A well-known singer tried to explain why so many musicians in Hong Kong end up in covers bands or playing the hotel lounge circuit. "Most think they're better than they are, and the others are just lazy", was the succinct answer. "Push them, and they'll get into a group huddle and label you as being 'difficult'." Frankly, in music, being "difficult" should be worn like a bloody big badge of honour.
Lennon and McCartney, Don Henley and Glenn Frey, Phil Spector and everyone he worked with, Bowie, Paul Simon, they have all, at one time or another, been described as being "difficult". Often, this is another word for being a perfectionist, and being "difficult" has produced brilliant music.
Creating music is not some popularity poll where one needs to be liked. It's fighting for the song in your heart and head, and making sure that the art running through your veins is never ever compromised. I was reading today that it took Glenn Frey three days to record the word "city" in the opening line to "Lying Eyes".
The rest of the Eagles didn't understand it at the time, but now they do. Glenn Frey was protecting his art- this pop song that told a story he had written and starred in. Unlike many musicians, and not just in Hong Kong, he wasn't going to settle for Okay Is Good Enough, or lend credence to that dumb throwaway line that no one these days listens to lyrics. Tell that to Hoagy Carmichael, Johnny Mercer, Jimmy Webb and any great interpreter of original songs- someone like Francis Albert Sinatra.
Hong Kong music needs more "difficult" talent- not just musicians, but perfectionist arrangers, engineers, session musicians and producers. These are all sorely lacking in the creative process. It's why we continue to produce such putrid crap over and over again. And whereas there was once a market for accepting this because no one knew better, this doesn't exist anymore.
Like the days of dining outside every day, music fans have become more discriminating. They don't see a buffet, and no longer want to eat everything. Today's economic downturn has taught them the importance of being selective about who and what they invest in- and whose careers they might wish to kickstart.
Of course, those only creating music in English often tend to forget the obvious- that this is Hong Kong, China- and where one, too frequently, cannot or refuses to see the forest for the trees.
Ever since Sam Hui stopped trying to be a one-man British Beat Boom pop band singing covers, and became the pioneer of real Canto-Pop by singing in Cantonese, music recorded in English has become a second class citizen. And when Jacky Cheung began to record both in Cantonese and Mandarin, it paved the way for Hong Kong recording artists to enter the far bigger and more lucrative Mainland China and Taiwan markets. As a music market, Hong Kong became, and has become, less and less important.
So, what might a "Made In Hong Kong" sound be like today, and what will finally deal the death blow to the slush funds of Canto Pap (sic)?Like the man-eating plant in The Little Shop Of Horrors, Canto-Pop has been fed too much for too long.
Though there have been some valiant attempts to rap in Cantonese, none have really gone the distance. Apart from LMF, Canto-Rap lacked cred. It wasn't exactly Public Enemy or the Wu-Tang Clan. It was some overseas Chinese returning to Hong Kong and trying to be what they couldn't be in the States: Gangstas. But, LMF were different. They were Made In Hong Kong, and they woke up the neighbourhood.
Hong Kong, Version 2016, is a very different place. The government is distrusted, big business is under scrutiny, and what we have is a fractured society. Hong Kong needs a Voice, but not all these empty voices trying to be heard over each other like a murder of crows.
One of the most powerful voices has always been music. It's a journalistic cliché, but Dylan, Lennon, and before them, Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, spoke to generations through their music.
In Hong Kong, one really doubts that Joey Yung or Hins Cheung will be the musical Voice of the people. Good gawd, that's a scary thought, and I hope not. But, now more than ever, Hong Kong needs its own sound- its own music that should be as international as the city itself, but never losing sight of the "Chineseness" that it must have. The person who manages to capture the sights and sounds of Hong Kong and brings this all together in Cantonese, Putonghua and English and brings together traditional and classically-trained Chinese singers and musicians to collaborate with creative writers, producers and musicians from the West to produce this One Voice could be an interesting new starting point.
Right now, there is no new starting point as laziness has set in and sapped many of us of our enthusiasm, inspiration and interest in music. Instead of going out there and doing something productive, we're reading about what's been done, and those who have come and gone and left us such rich musical legacies.
To not take their incredibly brave adventures of Ch-ch-ch-changes further will not only be letting them down, we'll be letting ourselves down. And here in Hong Kong where we have been let down by so many, it's surely time to look beyond venues and jam sessions and tedious Canto pap (sic)? It's time to create music that can be exported, but which first resonates with the people of this great city we call home.


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Saturday, February 9, 2013
We don't play Trivial Pursuit in my family, not any more. It's my fault. I demanded a correct answer and that was the end of it. I can't even remember the question but I can recreate the scenario with a similar question. It was the middle of the game, nobody was particularly far ahead or behind, the category was sport.
"What," my dad pauses dramatically and distractingly as he always does when reading trivia questions or Christmas cracker jokes, "sorry, who. Who," another pause "won Australia's first ever Winter Olympic gold medal at the two thousand and two Salt Lake City Olympic Games?" Four deflated looks from the players not getting to answer. An easy question if you're an Australian, an answer that has literally become a byword for undeserved victory.
"Um." My brother and I look at each other in hopeful disbelief. Does my sister not know? Is she going to miss a piece on a gimme? "someone Bradbury?" Hah! She doesn't know. I go for the dice.
"Yup," says dad. And so begins the end of Trivial Pursuit in the Dibley family. The answer is in fact Steven Bradbury. My opinion is simple: the answer on the card, the correct answer, is Steven Bradbury. Getting the last name is a good effort but it's not the full answer. There is some disagreement. My brother doesn't care and didn't want to be playing in the first place. Mum and dad are of the opinion that it's close enough. Close enough? What happens when there's a question about the start date of World War 1? Is "early 20th century" close enough? As can happen in my family things get quite loud and lively, people start throwing around "it's only a game", the score is left to stand after I am outvoted, and the game continues. We haven't played since that day because "Bice gets all worked up about it".
Only a game. It drives me mad when people say it about the playing of a game. They don't want to stick too tightly to the rules because that's not nice, reasonable, whatever. After all, it's only a game. What is meant is that not too much attention should be given to the act of playing, it's just an amusing distraction. But consider a slightly different interpretation of "only a game": it is a game and nothing else. Picking up and putting down cards is not fun, moving small wooden blocks around at random is not a leisure activity, and throwing a dice has no self contained context. Removing the rules from a game leaves a series of meaningless actions. All the game has in order to provide meaning is the structure of the rules that define it. Do you always have to play to the strictest interpretation of the rules? No, but you do always have to play strictly to the interpretation of the rules that the players have agreed to. Otherwise it becomes something else. I'm not sure what it is at that point but it's not even a game, never mind only a game.
Meanwhile, later in the same game, I got a question "what is the only American state whose name is in the name of its capital city?" I answered Indianapolis. The answer on the card was Oklahoma City. The ruling was that it wasn't the answer on the card so I didn't get a piece despite the fact that the answer I gave was correct. We're all adults so I'm sure nobody actually stuck their tongue out at me, but it sure felt like it.
I hate Trivial Pursuit.
Labels: alphabet-supremacy, competition
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text: LC Report post Posted December 30, 2018 I love "Desperate Fools," as many of you do, and with Eric showing up frequently on the board in 2007, I put up a thread about that song, hoping he'd give us some insight. Sure enough, Eric stopped in multiple times over the days that followed and kept dropping unknown tidbits—not just about the making of "Desperate Fools" and the album from which it came (Change of Heart) but about the whole Boats Against the Current album, which had come out two years earlier. Most intriguing was Eric's comment that Arista flipped the song order he wanted for Boats. But there were other tidbits, too. For example, "Temporary Hero" was originally to be the 7th song on the album but that song got lost in the process (he explains how). And when Gus Dudgeon dropped out of the project, he left Eric with 46 reels of 2-inch tape, each containing about four takes. COOL thread. Eric's comments shed light on some of our favorite EC moments. You don't get that kind of input every day! 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites


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The teeth whitening (or dance classes or lingerie shopping discount) is usually relatively easy to redeem because its offerred by a provider in your city, and you have a good six months to perk up that smile.
|Photo by Shannon Hurst Lane
Travel offers can be more problematic, as those who've purchased on an impulse have found. Users think they'll be able to get away, but then, just as they're about to finally take that resort vacation or tour, they get slammed by deadlines at work, or the school play calls extra rehearsals for your child. The discount expires and you've been left with a very pricey downloaded peice of paper.
That's why I was happy to hear about the debut of Yuupon.com. Like the rest, its deals are both in North American abroad, and the discounts seem to come in in the 40 to 50% range (though whether that's a discount off the usual price or off inflated rack rates is unclear...as it usually is. But unlike most other group buying sites (ie if enough people buy, everyone gets a discount), with Yuupon, you can get your money back if you decide to cancel your purchase. Purchasers have 8 days to get a refund if buyer's remorse sets in.
Yuupon also lets non-members check out its offers, great for those who don't want to overload their email in-boxes. So take a look: there's no risk involved in doing that!


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Counting It All Joy
Dr. R.C. Sproul has often said that while anyone can believe in God, it takes real faith to believe God. Trusting in His goodness during a severe illness, times when others sin heinously against us, the death of a ...Read More
Don't Worry, Be Joyful
Knowledge that death does not have the final say is but one of the many reasons why we as Christians can find the fullness of joy in the Lord (Phil. 4:4). Jesus has brought us so many other benefits and ...Read More
Giving Meaning to Life
Are you living your life "under the sun" or "under heaven?" Have you found true purpose and meaning to life?Read More
Anticipating the Day of the Lord
Thank God for the unspeakable joy and glory that awaits you in the day of the Lord.Read More
The Source of Joy
Christ's perfect joy in the Father will one day dwell in us as we dwell in Him. Of course, our flesh still battles against this, and thus our joy in the Lord will not be perfect before His return. Still, ...Read More
The Greatest Joy
Those of us who have been Christians for a long time often forget the joy that comes when we first confess Christ and realize that our names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life. If you are finding it ...Read More
Rejoicing with Others
Many have used JOY as an acrostic to define our priorities. J is for Jesus, who comes first, then others (O), and finally, yourself (Y). If we put ourselves first, we will become selfish people, isolated and with little ...Read More
Counting It All Joy
Our future hope, rightly understood, does not make us callous to the needs and importance of this present life. Instead, it makes us live today with confidence, sure of the Lord's presence as we courageously face the unknown. "This slight ...Read More
Don't Worry, Be Joyful
Even if God never gives us another blessing, what Jesus did on our behalf gives us more than a sufficient reason to rejoice. We can properly grieve when friends and families die, relationships end, jobs are lost, and suffering occurs. ...Read More
Rejoice and Be Glad
Though our sin may bring suffering, the suffering Peter has in mind here is the suffering we endure from the hands of ungodly men because of our profession of Christ. When we stand for Jesus in our schools, homes, or ...Read More
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On August 28, 1978, the 95th Congress passed an amendment to the U.S. Constitution pending ratification by the three-fourths of the 'several states.' In 1978, the number corresponding to three-fourths of the several states was 38 (three-fourths of 50 is 38). A time limit of seven years was built into the amendment itself, and at the time the amendment expired, sixteen of the required thirty-eight states had ratified the document. Delaware was the last state to ratify the amendment before it expired.
The proposed amendment reads as follows:
Joint Resolution H.J. Res. 554
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution to provide for representation of the District of Columbia in the Congress
Resolved by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled (two-thirds of each House concurring therein), That the following article is proposed as an amendment to the Constitution of the United States, which shall be valid to all intents and purposes as part of the Constitution when ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States within seven years from the date of its submission by the Congress:
"SECTION 1. For purposes of representation in the Congress, election of the President and Vice President, and article V of this Constitution, the District constituting the seat of government of the United States shall be treated as though it were a State.
"SEC. 2. The exercise of the rights and powers conferred under this article shall be by the people of the District constituting the seat of government, and as shall be provided by the Congress.
"SEC. 3. The twenty-third article of amendment to the Constitution of the United States is hereby repealed.
"SEC. 4. This article shall be inoperative, unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several states within seven years from the date of its submission."
Thomas P. O'Neill, Jr.,
Speaker of the House of Representatives
Quentin Burdick
Acting President of the Senate-pro Tempore
I certify that this Joint Resolution originated in the House of Representatives.
Edmund L. Henshaw, Jr.,
By W. Raymond Colley, Deputy Clerk.
[Received by the Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Service, General Services Administration, August 28, 1978]


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Spider-Man 'to be replaced by female counterpart'
- Bang Showbiz
- 27 April 2015
Sony Pictures is reportedly set to replace Spider-Man with his female counterpart
Spider-Man is to be replaced with movies featuring his female counterpart.
Sony Pictures are determined to produce more films that appeal to girls and have, therefore, decided to make a Spider-Woman movie in 2017.
A source at the film company told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: "For years it has been all about male superheroes but it's about time that changed.
"There should be more movies made with girls in mind, this was something that [former Sony Pictures chief Amy Pascal] was very adamant about."
This comes shortly after Kevin Feige, the president of Marvel Studios, revealed that the studio's 'Spider-Man' movie will not be an origin story.
In February, the two studios announced that Spider-Man will first appear in a Marvel film, before the comic book hero appears in the next installment of Sony's own franchise.
Kevin explained the Marvel film will work on the assumption that its audience already knows the "specifics" of Peter Parker's life.
He said: "In Spider-Man's very specific case, where there have been two retellings of that origin in the last whatever it's been - [13] years - for us, we are going to take it for granted that people know that, and the specifics.
"It will not be an origin story, but with great power comes great responsibility. It is inherent to who his character is. But we want to reveal it in different ways and spend much more time focusing on this young high school kid in the Marvel Comic universe dealing with his powers."


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Bug Reports
No official thread for bug reports yet, so post them here until the developers make an official thread. Just installed the TP (22.214.171.124); very excited! I want to report a few bugs I noticed right away. I'm on a Surface Pro running Windows 8.1.1 (x64), outputting 1366x768 on a different monitor. On the initial launch, I could open the About page from the Vivaldi Button menu, but not the Horizontal Menu; restarting the browser resolved this. The settings gear at the bottom of the panel opens a new settings window with each press. It would be nice if it acted as a toggle, opening and closing the window. Why doesn't the settings gear/menu button go directly to vivaldi://settingspage? It's a well-designed page, and I imagine it uses less system resources than opening a new window. I get weird behavior when using my numpad. For example, the 1 jumps back a few tabs, and the 9 scrolls out. Going to vivaldi://mail redirects to www.google.com/search?q=undefined Section 6 of the EULA has a grammatical error. The second (or first) "only" is redundant. "You may only use the Software and Services for personal use only."
In that case, I'll paste my bug I posted in the wrong section.
When you load a fullscreen application (Currently on the Microsoft MVA website watching some videos) the message "Vivaldi is showing in Fullscreen mode. Press F11 to exit." is not disappearing unless I completely closed the browser. Pressed F11 a few times and closed the tab, but it persists across all tabs until the browser is closed.
Also, changing my startup page in settings to www.google.co.uk does nothing. Reopening the settings menu shows that the startup page resets back to vivaldi.net
arve last edited by
Rendering is glitchy on this page if any filters such as Sepia or Greyscale are enabled - I'd like to label this "Flash of Blank Page"
HarHarLinks last edited by
- opening tabs and windows is quiety slow/laggy
- window does not always get focused, eg when clicking on a tab or the empty tab bar and trying to Ctrl+T
- private/inkognito mode is present in my windows taskbar jump list, not via menu?
- the number keys as shortcuts to switch tabs dont get caught in google docs
At least on my Debian/Linux:
- The Mouse Cursor does not change shape just by moving it. I have to clock somewhere to get back an arrow once it has changed to semthing else.
- In one case, typing numbers within a text box caused the screen resolution to change, or the browser switched to a different tab
HarHarLinks last edited by
My main window just crashed, leaving all tab processes running (including sound playback). Had to kill all manually before i could start a new window. Tabs were restored though.
On Windows 7 Pro 64bit German:
- Selected "Advanced" on the installer.
- Typed in a custom folder "D:\Tools\Internet\Vivaldi" (not yet existing; while ""D:\Tools\Internet" exists and is writable) to install to
- Application installed in default installation path ""C:\Program Files (x86)\Vivaldi"
Cqoicebordel Ambassador last edited by
No 32 bits version on Linux
(Yes I know it's not really a bug, but it's close enough)
intay last edited by
Windows 8.1 x64
- If you open up Vivaldi's settings but close out the main browser first, and not the settings box you can never get the main browser to open again. Doesn't matter if you kill all tasks or try to open a new window or tab. Requires a full uninstall then re installation of the browser.
That's just beyond annoying
Windows 7 Enterprise (32bit)
In some Login Forms I am unable to enter passwords with numbers as Vivaldi starts to switch tabs or changes size.
(In this Case an old Webfrontend of a Storage Machine)
cottton last edited by
Windows 8.1 x64
- If you open up Vivaldi's settings but close out the main browser first, and not the settings box you can never get the main browser to open again. Doesn't matter if you kill all tasks or try to open a new window or tab. Requires a full uninstall then re installation of the browser.
That's just beyond annoying
Exactly the same problem
win 7 64bit
installed default settings.
PLUS if you klick on the settings icon in the left bar you can open the settings menu multiply times (in the background).
and dunno if matters but:
[0127/120907:ERROR:client_util.cc(218)] Could not find exported function RelaunchChromeBrowserWithNewCommandLineIfNeeded
Linux. Fedora 21/gnome 3
Try adding a comment from the notification drop-down in g+. The backspace key will not work as backspace in the text field. instead it is a history back, taking the whole tab back and losing the text i was editing.
Linux. Fedora 21/gnome 3
Try opening the web service on a VMware vcenter server.
I can see the page loading in the URL field (that greyed progress bar in the background), but the actual web page does not change at all. It still shows the "speed dial" or whatever I had up earlier. Possibly because this server uses a "snake oil" certificate. In that case the browser should come up with a warning, right?
Some bugs that were found at Vivaldi browser (OS: Windows 7 Ultimate x64):
1. If you try to export your configs several windows will pop up. There is no ability to close 2 or 3 of them. Also there is a very annoying thing - they are moving on screen after each clicking on "save", "cancel" or whatever else
2. If one's has several tabs from the same site he should click on "group similar". It's a cool feature. But there is a bug: after grouping them i can't add another tab. I have to resolve them and only after that i'll be able to group them again
Hi everyone. Thanks so much for this new initiative. Love it already! Here my first feedback:
On my Surface Pro 3, the program is blurry, i guess due to scaling issues. With the usual fix: "Disable display scaling on high DPI settings" it did not get any better. Would be great if the browser is displayed sharply on the Surface soon!
And - the functionality of the rewind button so far is limited…wont go back to start...
Oisin last edited by
I found 2 bugs:
- Cloning a tab does not clone its history but only open the current url as new tab. Cloning the history as well would be nice.
- opening links in new tabs does not send login credential on some sites (eg being logged in on twitter and opening a user profile link with right click -> 'open in new tab' opens the new tab but there I'm not logged in any more)
DanielHendrycks last edited by
In the search bar, we have "WolframpAlpha"
CTRL + F overlays the search menu dropdown
The left panel doesn't change its color in accordance to the website
The tab spacing doesn't adhere to Fitt's law
No CTRL + Shift + T
When the menu is mapped to a menu bar, the dropdown menus have an inconsistent background color and hover effect from other menus in the browser
The "X" button for tabs has rounded corners, but every other element of the interface is blocky (From a marketing standpoint, you all should remember that people like rounded stuff more.)
Click on Menu -> Click on Menu does not collapse the menu; it just reopens it
zauberexonar last edited by
Many mice (such as mine, a logitech G700) come with back and forward buttons on the side. Other browsers I've used will respond to those buttons when pushed by browsing forward or back a page, as if you hit the browser's back or forward buttons.
Vivaldi doesn't respond to these mouse buttons at all, however.
EDIT: Found another bug. Vivaldi does not allow you to use the autotype feature in the KeePassX password manager. Instead nothing gets entered into the login widgets on pages, and the page gets zoomed out a lot.
TalGarik last edited by
The first thing I do when I use a browser for the first time is setting duckduckgo as default search engine and removing google; after doing this, Vivaldi had become unusable, so I have added Google and … it works again! One of the main complains against Opera is its affiliation with Google, it seems Vivaldi's association is even more radical. I hope to be wrong and that this is a bug that will be corrected, otherwise sorry Vivaldi guys, I like your project but I want to stay as far as possible from anything google.
Saskatchewan last edited by
– A few minutes ago, after closing one of the tabs, I've lost two other opened tabs and all bookmarks (!)
Other bugs:
– vivaldi://about has no title
– Search engines settings are only available under All settings
– "Group similar" in tab's context menu doesn't disappear immediately after disabling tab stacking in settings (it does disappear after clicking it)


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Boynton Beach, FL (June 27, 2017) – LifeAnswers Financial Group has added Gerber Life Insurance Company to their list of carrier partners who provide competitive products and consumer benefits to its independent insurance agents. Gerber Life will enhance LifeAnswers' expanding product portfolio by adding a guaranteed issue final expense product and two whole life insurance products.
"LifeAnswers has created an insurance product and sales platform that consists of a selection of the top insurance carriers and products in the Unites States, and we are excited to have Gerber Life as part of our platform," said Mark T. Stone, LifeAnswers' Chief Marketing Officer.
LifeAnswers developed this insurance sales platform for independent insurance agents with careful consideration of key factors such as financial strength ratings, competitive market position, product features and benefits, and company reputation. Gerber Life Insurance Company has provided quality life insurance, especially for clients on a limited budget, since 1967 and is dedicated to helping people achieve financial security and protection for their families.
Gerber Life's Grow Up Plan is whole life insurance protection that builds cash value to help a child or grandchild prepare for the future. It offers premiums that never increase and the parent or grandparent is the policy owner until the child reaches age 21, at which time the child becomes the policy owner. Gerber Life College Plan is an additional whole life insurance product that is an alternative to a traditional college savings plan and is an easy, affordable way to set aside money for higher education.
In addition to whole life products, LifeAnswers will offer Gerber Life's Guaranteed Life Insurance Plan, a final expense life insurance product that is a guaranteed issue policy that helps clients cover final expenses, medical bills, and unpaid debt.
Gerber Life will be a beneficial addition to the LifeAnswers product platform and supporting the company's overall mission of providing insurance solutions for every stage of a customer's financial needs.
LifeAnswers is a direct to the agent marketing and life insurance sales opportunity that combines a next generation technology platform, a compound recruiting model and a top-of-industry compensation plan backed by progressive training, consumer lead and education systems.
LifeAnswers has been designed for existing Independent Marketing Organizations (IMOs) and independent insurance agents to achieve higher levels of success. The organization has contracted with a core group of top life insurance carriers for life insurance and annuity products for its members for every stage of a customer's financial needs.
More information about LifeAnswers Financial Group can be found at www.LifeAnswersFG.com or by contacting the company at email@example.com.


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Business, as the engine of the global economy, has an important role to play in achieving this goal. The WOW consortium - an alliance of global experts, including PwC, BSR, CARE International, University of Manchester, and Social Development Direct - will establish 10 business partnerships/initiatives that will enable dignified, equal, and economically empowering work for women. WOW will also support civil society organisations to tackle a small number of key issues affecting women's opportunities in global value chains.
This report and discussion document are the first in a series of WOW research publications aimed at improving understanding of women's economic empowerment and catalysing action to address key issues that are barriers to women around the world.
Read more
Four good reasons for engaging with DFID's Work and Opportunities for Women programme – blog by Gerry Boyle, Senior Policy Advisor on women's economic empowerment
CARE examine the importance of gender equity in business – why CARE are hosting the gender equity zone at Business Fights Poverty's 2018 conference
Empower a woman and a whole cocoa community will thrive – how the Mondelēz International, Cocoa Life programme is promoting women's empowerment in their supply chains
How business can tackle social norms which hold back women's economic empowerment – Insights blog by Claudia Canepa, coordinator of Oxfam's Knowledge Hub on women's economic empowerment in agriculture
Empowering women in the economy: The private sector is an essential partner - Cindy Drakeman, lead author of the UN High-Level Panel on Women's Economic Empowerment report, discusses the power business has to bring about transformative change
UN report on women's economic empowerment: The right thing – and the smart thing – to do - Senior Policy and Advocacy Advisor Fiona Jarden's take on the first report by the UN Secretary General's High-Level Panel on Women's Economic Empowerment.


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Old books & new technology
» Last week, thanks to the kindness of the abbot president and the brethren at Buckfast, the new internet network was installed, which will serve both the presidential curia and the reisdent monks and guests of the monastery. The upgrade saw the installation of premium wireless routers throughout the monastery, as well as new switches and the transfer of our cyber security and filtering to SonicWall. Gordon and Georges from Buckfast's IT team did the work assisted by Greg Primavesi, our clerk of works, and Fr Hugh. We are now able to enjoy to the full the increased speed of the fibre-optic broadband installed last year.» Visitors over the past week include the confirmandi from Fr Austin's parish at Andover, who were here last Sunday for some input into their sacramental preparation; and pupils from Thorngrove School on 1 February, who were treated to a talk and a tour by Fr Oliver, joining us for midday prayer.» Also on 1 February Stefan and Michael arrived to live with the monastic community until Easter. They are the first participants in our Alongsider Programme, which invites men to live and work with us for a few weeks to experience something more substantial of the life of the monastery. They will be under the care of Fr Gabriel. In a few weeks' time a third man will join them. Please keep them in your payers.» The first day of February was a busy day, as it was also the day of a book launch here at Douai. The catalogue of our monastic library in Paris, as meticulously compiled by Dom Benet Weldon in 1702, has been edited and made available both in an electronic version through our website, and as of the launch, in a handsome hardbound and limited-run volume printed by Smith Settle of Leeds. The editing and compilation is the fruit of four years' work by Dr Frans Korsten, Dr Jos Blom, and Dr Frans Blom, and Drs Pauline Berens who produced the electronic edition, all of whom are from the University of Nijmegen in Holland. Giving the address at the launch in the Library was Professor Eamon Duffy, of Cambridge, who spoke of the uniqueness of the work. After the formalities the 60 guests were able to enjoy refreshments in the Guest Refectory. It is available from the Library here for £70, a price which reflects the quality of the book and the small numbers printed. The electronic version of the catalogue remains linked from the Library page.» For the first time in living memory we celebrated the feast of St Blaise which the traditional blessing of throats with candles to guard against ailments of the throat, and indeed all illness. Most of the monks and guests came up for the blessing given during Mass. The candles come from St Blaise's church in Dubrovnik, which houses the tomb of the saint.


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Gisele Bündchen recently announced that she'd prefer not to work the runway anymore, but the supermodel has always maintained her desire to continue modeling in other areas. Now, Bündchen is showing what this next phase of her career looks like with an incredible Vogue Brasil cover.
The May 2015 cover, which shows Bündchen posing nude on a pedestal, celebrates both the supermodel's 20-year career, and the publication's 40th anniversary. The magazine's theme is the four elements and Bündchen will represent "air, water, fire, and earth" in five separate editorials, according to Vogue Brasil. Bündchen will take up over 80 pages in the issue.
"When we had the idea to do something special with Vogue to celebrate 20 years of my career and 40 of the magazine, I knew I did not want to do something simply fashion," Bündchen said. "I wanted to show something else, something that was part of my essence."
While Bündchen may well have walked her last runway in Brazil, you won't find us complaining if she continues to produce covers like this.


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The Academy for Science and Design is for New Hampshire students in grades 6 - 12. The school day runs from 8:15 am - 3:25 pm.
We ask that all parents at ASD join in an initiative that is taking place at the national level to address the needs of schools regarding technology: Bring Your Own Device (BYOD). BYOD enables ASD to continue to challenge our students with rigorous and personalized academic experiences, foster innovative methods of teaching and learning, access up to date information and emerging technologies.
The concept of BYOD is not new to ASD and has already been successful for many years. We encourage all parents to consider purchasing a device for their child's use at school. While this is a substantial family investment, it is needed to solve a significant problem our students and faculty will have in terms of resources.
While we will have two computer labs up and running with some desktop computers often, classes are being held in these computer labs. While it certainly comes with its own set of challenges, participating in BYOD will advance instruction at ASD in terms of 21st Century Learning.
The Academy for Science and Design (ASD) is a Chartered Public School, which means that it is a public school that is based upon a mission and charter rather than on a geographic area defining a local school district. Students who believe that this school's charter would best fit their educational needs may choose to enroll at ASD. As a New Hampshire public school, it is tuition-free for New Hampshire residents, and any student residing anywhere in New Hampshire may apply for admittance.
The Academy for Science and Design recognizes the critical importance of providing New Hampshire students with a world-class education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). In response to the growing need for sustaining our state and national leadership in an increasingly technical world, ASD seeks to:
Inspire youth possessing exceptional interest and talent in STEM
Strengthen and expand students' understanding of science and technology within a supportive environment for active, individualized learning
Advance students' awareness of and commitment to pursuing academic and career pathways in STEM-related fields
ASD is a school and community driven by a passion for learning and education. The school's goal is to instill and nurture that love in it's students and foster their pursuit of their potential. While there is a particular emphasis on mathematics and the sciences, the overall emphasis is to provide students with a solid educational foundation.
The Academy for Science and Design is a school driven by the curiosity and motivation of our students and faculty in the realm of mathematics and the sciences. All students select an area of focus within the STEM disciplines and pursue in-depth subject mastery in their courses. The academic rigor of the school is high, and students who choose to attend ASD do so because they are looking for a challenge. ASD is also a unique community of learners who share common interests in STEM-related topics and many students come from great distances to attend.
A charter school is a public school which operates according to specific guidelines stated in its charter. It is tuition-free, non-sectarian, and independent of most state programs and initiatives to allow for innovation and a focus on its specific educational goals. ASD's charter is posted on this website. More information on charter schools in New Hampshire is available from a number of sources, including The New Hampshire Alliance for Public Charter Schools and the New Hampshire Department of Education websites.
While ASD is currently situated in Nashua, NH, it operates independently from the Nashua school district. Having said that, ASD's administration has an excellent relationship with Nashua schools and keeps an open line of communication. Nashua does provide busing for ASD students who are residents of that district, so ASD generally follows the Nashua school district calendar. In the 2017 - 2018 school year, ASD had students from 32 different New Hampshire school districts.
ASD is tuition-free for residents of New Hampshire. In order to best serve our students, ASD may charge some nominal fees for specific but optional services and support.
Charter schools are public schools. When a child attends a charter school the state portion of adequacy aid (about $3,600 FY17) is sent directly to the charter school, local taxpayer dollars remain in the district and do not forward to the charter school. Because New Hampshire charter schools do not receive local tax dollars, the state legislature provides charter schools with an additional $3,036 per pupil FY17.
ASD recognizes the importance of a well-rounded education. A review of our Program of Studies will demonstrate that innovative approaches to teaching and learning are happening across disciplines, including an integrated Humanities program and well-developed foreign language programs for Spanish, Mandarin, and German.
Students who attend ASD are looking for a challenge. While participating in advanced courses can be very exciting, there is a significant level of commitment that students and families must have to support their work here. Many students find that there is a significant amount of homework, which is often more than the student's previous school. ASD's goal is for homework to be as productive as possible to aid students in achieving mastery of the subjects they are taking. It is also expected that students show discipline and initiative to achieve mastery. The homework levels are designed to prepare students for the rigors of college and/or work. Most students and parents find that proper organization and planning are some of the best tools for keeping our students on track with their academic performance.
Extracurricular activities are typically held in the hour after school dismisses each day.
Beginning in 2013, ASD fielded our first athletic team: Cross-Country Running at the middle school level and in 2015 boys soccer and track were added at the middle school level.
There is a wide variety of activities available to ASD students, including, but not limited to: Math Counts, Student Council, Chorus, Destination Imagination, Granite State Challenge, Drama Club, Helping Hands Youth Social Club, Environmental Club, Yearbook, Civil Air Patrol, Poetry Club, Debate, HS Coding Club, Ski Club, ASD Outdoor Club, and Science Quiz Bowl. These are run by parent or faculty volunteers and are subject to change at any time.
The esteemed faculty and staff at the Academy for Science and Design come from various backgrounds, both from the educational realm and from STEM-related industries. This diversity is one of the greatest strengths of the school, as the different perspectives that each brings with them only strengthens the teaching and learning that takes place at the school. ASD is in accordance with all regulations on Charter schools required by the New Hampshire Department of Education as well as the State Board of Education. As with any public school, all ASD staff are required to have police background checks.
ASD opened in the Fall of 2007 with a small group of 32 students. Each year has brought with it very rapid growth, as the demand for a strong STEM education is high. For the 2017 - 2018 school year, our student population was 525 students, spanning grades 6-12.
The exponential growth of the school over these past ten years has resulted in some slight variations in class size, but the expectation is that the student body will begin to normalize in volume to contain a similar number of students.
Any New Hampshire resident who wants to attend the Academy for Science and Design is welcome to pursue enrollment at the school, however, if there are more students seeking admission to the school than there is space available, the school will hold a lottery. More information can be found about the admissions procedure under the Admission page on this website.
Applicants need to reside in the state of New Hampshire to be eligible for the admission lottery should one be needed. As a public charter school, we must follow New Hampshire State laws that govern NH public charter schools.
As ASD is a school of choice, it is important for any student considering enrolling at ASD to be certain that he or she is interested in pursuing an education within the mission and charter of our school. Our school seeks to serve students with an interest and talent in STEM-related disciplines, and our admissions process is in place to help families make an informed decision when considering enrolling at ASD.
Students residing in the Nashua school district are provided transportation to and from ASD by the Nashua school system. Because of this, the Academy for Science and Design generally follows Nashua's calendar. Carpooling is often an excellent solution for our families.
Yes, when students go on field trips, transportation is provided – typically a bus. The fee for the busing is usually included in the fee for the trip. For smaller classes, teachers or parent volunteers may provide transportation. All drivers are vetted for current driver's license and adequate insurance.
Parents should be aware that funding is a serious constraint. ASD strives to provide the best possible education within these funding limitations, but with the level of state funding at barely half the statewide average expenditure per student, it is a serious and continuing concern. If not for special grants and philanthropy, the school would likely not be in operation. Our hope is to build public support by demonstrating excellence with the level of state funding we do have, along with private donations, while also lobbying the state for better funding.
The school currently relies on direct state funding, which can vary depending on legislative issues. While we will continue to argue for more equitable funding, and encourage families to let their legislators know they support increased funding for charter schools, there is always the unfortunate possibility that funding will not be sufficient at some point.
As ASD is entering its tenth year of operation and has grown from an initial number of 30 to 525.
The Academy for Science and Design has a strongly united school community, including educators from various backgrounds, students, and families. ASD has a highly devoted Board of Trustees who demonstrate a tremendous commitment to the success of the school. ASD has also advanced its mission through outreach to several community organizations and higher educational institutions. Our school focuses on how resources from the community can strengthen teaching and learning at ASD, as well as how our school community can help to improve the surrounding community.
ASDEF is ASD's parent/teacher organization, which is a 501(c)3 organization created to provide additional support for the school.
Many different people have helped bring ASD to where it is now. ASD School Board oversaw the conception and charter of ASD and has included (alphabetically) Dr. Michael Fishbein (Provost, Daniel Webster College), Kent Glossop (ASD parent), Dr. Karen Graham (Director, Leitzl Center, UNH), Dr. Susan Hollins (NH Center for School Reform), Patricia Humphrey (M.S. Ed.), Lucille Jordan (President, Nashua Community College), Joseph Klewicki (Dean, UNH College of Engineering), Robert ("Skip") Myers (President, Daniel Webster College), Shanthi Nair (ASD parent), Thomas Popik (Principal, Geosegment Systems), Izuh Obinelo (Director, Degrees Control, Inc.), and Jennifer Starr (ASD parent). Dr. Susan Hollins carried out the monumental task of opening the school, and initially served as its Interim Director; Chris Franklin (ASD parent) was then appointed Director, providing invaluable leadership and drive, with Assistant Director Regina Rubery (ASD parent) providing crucial additional support and oversight.
While many of these individuals are still involved with ASD, the school has grown to incorporate even more community members and leaders that have continued to guide the school in the direction of the vision and mission set forth by its founding members.
Academy for Science and Design Chartered Public School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in admission to its programs, services, or activities, in access to them, in treatment of individuals, or in any aspect of their operations. The lack of English language skills shall not be a barrier to admission or participation in the district's activities and programs. Academy for Science and Design Chartered Public School also does not discriminate in its hiring or employment practices.


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#buyethical, Artisans, Change, Earth Day, Earth Day 2013, eco fashion, Eco-conscious, eco-friendly, eco-labels, Eco-lifestyle, Environment, environmentalism, environmentally-friendly, ethical fashion, ethical products, ethically-made, fair trade, Green Fashion, organic, recycle, reuse, social change, Social consumerism, social impact, socially-made, sustainability, sustainable, sustainable development, sustainable fashion, sustainable lifestyle, sustainable living, sustainably-made, Upcycle
As we anticipated Earth Day during the month of April, we thought it would be great to look at interesting movement in the environmental space. Our article series titled "Earth Day Everyday" consisted of stories, tips and trends related to sustainability and the environment.
Today we celebrate Earth Day 2013 and are excited to end our "Earth Day Everyday" series for 2013 with this video that celebrates ethical fashion and its impact on the environment.
Enjoy it and share it! Happy Earth Day 2013!


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Bitcoin in 2014
Last year was, of course, the break out year for Bitcoin. Incubating in geek-nurtured obscurity during its first few years, 2013 saw the international media, global investors, entrepreneurs, and even a few just plain citizens jump onto the math-based currency (fewer managed to actually purchase some bitcoin). The currency has since ballooned in value. It continues its remarkable volatility, based on new market activity (China), regulatory restrictions (China), emotion, security concerns, and pragmatism (cash-out activity). Bitcoin has also proven to be remarkably resilient.
That was last year. At the risk of affirming yet again how often prognosticators are wrong, here's what 2014 should bring to Bitcoin and the math-based currencies following in its wake.
Infrastructure Maturation. A math-based currency isn't much use if it isn't fungible. If you can't spend it, what's the value? Since an all-bitcoin economy doesn't exist, you have to be able to exchange bitcoin in and out of fiat currencies, the obvious domain of currency exchanges. 2013 saw numerous screw-ups by exchange operators including theft and missteps with regulators. Such nonsense should subside in 2014. The exchanges and trading platforms still standing are better capitalized than some earlier entrepreneurial efforts and more focused on regulatory compliance.
For example, Coinbase raised $25 million December 12, 2013 from Andreessen Horowitz. Led by internet entrepreneur Jeremy Allaire, Circle was launched October 30, 2013 with $9 Million Series A from Jim Breyer, Accel Partners & General Catalyst Partners. Others are out there. Smarter money is backing Bitcoin and the math-based currency paradigm.
Rock solid bitcoin exchanges and trading platforms are necessary for a currency to thrive. While missteps are likely, it looks like 2014 should strengthen these essential services and, in turn, raise confidence in the entire ecosystem. The impact of solid, reliable, even boring currency exchanges on math-based currency uptake cannot be understated.
Use Cases Proliferate. With basic exchange services in place, 2014 will see some use cases tackled that go beyond simply buying, selling, and currency arbitrage. International remittance, B2B payments, leaving a tip for a blogger, they're all possible. The use of the block chain ledger to track asset ownership is an intriguing and potentially powerful application.
Infrastructure maturation should inspire confidence in creative application developers to experiment and build new apps using math-based currencies. If math-based currencies are to thrive, they have to be used. Thus far, the simple use of bitcoin to replace USD in an ecommerce transaction is not especially interesting. Yes, its cost is a bit lower but it is hardly a transformational use case.
I'm particularly interested in seeing applications that simply use bitcoin rails to move value. Once we see both the sender and receiver transact in their local currencies via a math-based intermediary, transparent to each party, then we'll know this approach has staying power.
Will 2014 bring the "Bitcoin killer app"? I don't know. I'll be satisfied if a handful of specific niche applications emerge that actually get used.
Bank Support Remains in Low Gear. Bank support for Bitcoin and other math-based currencies will remain in low gear because, frankly, where's the upside? Yes, a few tech-forward banks will support exchange operators but beyond those leaders a more compelling business case will have to be made before doing business with Bitcoin companies appeals to cautious bankers leery of waving a flag in front of regulators.
What's the impact of bank hesitation on the Bitcoin ecosystem? Not much. Once enough value is moved into bitcoin, there will be sufficient liquidity to conduct a broad range of transactions including B2B payments. While moving money to and from currency exchanges, never mind PayPal accounts, could become more convenient with the active support of banks, it is not a precondition for consumer adoption. Compelling use cases beyond currency arbitrage are required (see above).
Moving Value In and Out Stays Slow. Simply getting funds to and from an exchange will remain awkward. Like many others, I had to create a unique bank account, tie that to a Coinbase account, wait for verification via the micro-deposit process, and move funds back and forth via ACH. Not exactly realtime transactions. Despite expected improvements in bitcoin wallets, I don't see moving fiat currency, a.k.a. money, into and out of bitcoin getting much easier in 2014.
US Regulatory Patience Continues. Given maturing infrastructure and Bitcoin's still minuscule role in global transaction flow, US regulators will continue their "watchful waiting" approach. As long as math-based currency businesses comply with FinCEN and money services business regulations, the experiment that is Bitcoin and all math-based currencies can continue. This is a very good thing.
Meanwhile, the Bitcoin ecosystem should consider how to extend its inherent transactional transparency to bitcoin ownership. While anonymity has its virtues, regulators need to be able to follow the money.
Ripple Creates a Wave. Bitcoin is not optimal for every use case, especially point of sale, high value transactions. But other math-based currencies exist that could better address this use case. Ripple Lab's transaction ledger is updated every five seconds or so. The Ripple Labs algorithm also natively supports currency exchanges. I expect some intriguing announcements from companies using Ripple-based rails.
Internet Security Concerns Hinder Market Development. All math-based currencies exist on an internet that is demonstrably fraught with insecurities. For the generations raised on card-based payments and their consumer protections, digital cash is a foreign concept. There's no recourse if a recipient doesn't deliver on a promise. That's the cash equivalent issue. Making it even more difficult is the state of internet security in general. Almost nothing is hacker-proof. That pervasive vulnerability will inhibit the spread of math-based currencies. Your bitcoin is safest when it's stored offline.
Gaining Muscle, Gaining Experience
Last summer, Glenbrook conducted a survey on Bitcoin views with a largely US-based set of payments professionals. Remarkably, even then, a strong cadre of payments insiders were believers in Bitcoin's longevity and its potential. 2014 will see Bitcoin and other math-based currencies continue to affirm those beliefs and win over others. But don't look for the economic and monetary policy arguments to subside.
If you're viewing Bitcoin as an investment vehicle then what matters is how many others want a piece of today's 12 million bitcoins.
But if you're interested in the exchange of value problem, the "crux of the biscuit" is how math-based currencies fit into payments systems based on fiat currency. As 2014 produces a more stable infrastructure, the challenge will be identifying the applications most susceptible to augmentation or outright displacement by math-based currencies.
Unlike so many Internet phenomena, moving money is not amenable to revolution. Steady evolution is required to build confidence. 2014 should see math-based currencies settle down to the work of proving themselves through continued experience and experimentation. There are endless opportunities for it to all go wrong but 2014 should provide plenty of space for math-based currencies to get, at least for the coming year, the next evolutionary steps right. If all of these approaches get a little less media attention and a lot more operational experience then 2014 will be a very successful year.
At Glenbrook, we've got a range of thoughts on what ideas to pursue and how the two worlds of fiat and math-based currencies can fit together—or cannot. We'd love to discuss your ideas and, better, help you get them honed and into the market. Get in touch and we'll assemble the team.