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Spectrami had a very humble beginning as a two-member team in July 2011 with a clear objective to redefine "value" in the value-added distribution space.
Initial success was achieved by introducing niche and specialized vendors with a full 360-degree service offering, as part of our vendor extension model (VEM). As we grew at a breathtaking pace in the subsequent years, we have maintained the ability to keep innovating and adapt to the ever-changing demands of the vendor and reseller eco-system. With more established vendors joining us, we have created a robust and scalable model to suit the needs and demands of all of them.
In the year 2016, a multi-billion dollar equity investment firm KBBO group invested in Spectrami with a plan to support the ambitious plan to become a global leader. The journey of expansion into Europe and other markets started with the acquisition of NPC Gmbh, a boutique VAD based out of Frankfurt, Germany. Today we cater to more than 40 countries through our various offices across Europe, Middle and East and Africa with plans to extend to other territories in the years to come.
One of the catalysts for Spectrami growth has been the ability to attract and retain the best talent in the industry. While other VADs are trying to find relevance in the new Cloud Delivery Model adapted by Vendors, Spectrami had led the change by launching the "HIVE Platform" for redefining the Cloud Distribution Strategy.
One of the remarks by our customer summarizes the Spectrami achievements –
"Spectrami is special as it has done the tough and hard business of selling solutions of Niche and Specialized vendors and have not gone after easy and box pushing business of established Vendors"
SPECTRAMI is a pan-EMEA value-added distributor with a local presence in UK, Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Turkey, U.A.E, Kuwait, Oman, K.S.A, Qatar, Bahrain, and Egypt. The company boasts an extensive network of worldwide channel partners.
Specializing in end-to-end solutions across information security, data centre infrastructure and data communication networks, the global distributor assists enterprises to meet regulatory standards on their infrastructure, protect confidential data assets and applications.
With proficiency across sales, marketing, logistics and management, SPECTRAMI's unique strengths include excellent resources, effective on-ground support and a highly qualified team to identify optimal sales channels and marketing strategies for a product line. Over the years, the global distributor has amassed high level of credibility among all its stakeholders. With trust as its core principle, it has created profitable partnerships with vendors and channel partners alike.
Funded by Abu Dhabi-based investment firm KBBO Group, the company is well positioned to expand its success as a partner of choice for global enterprise vendors to greater levels.


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Extra Goodies for Day Spa Kit
Did you like the items from the Day Spa Kit? Did you want to make more items? Maybe kitchen stuff, or spa shoes? I've have found patterns that I absolutely love. Check out the links below! Sunday Ballet Slippers by Heart Hook Home Image by Heart Hook Home When Ashlea posted the video/link

subset: commoncrawl


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Monocle magazine publisher Tyler Brûlé has invested in a full studio suite and hired 22 people to staff his new 24-hour Internet radio service, Monocle 24. Brûlé styled the new webcast after the legendary BBC World Service, saying, "We are hoping to create a station which follows the tradition of the great Commonwealth broadcasters. It's no surprise that we have drawn a lot of great people from the BBC World Service."
The webcast mixes talk radio (four live shows a day, and ondemand) and music, with news updates at the top of the hour. Listeners can also access news and national weather on demand, geo-targeted (we heard weather reports for various parts of the U.S.).
According to The Telegraph, Brûlé decided to start the radio service following the success of the Monocle Weekly podcasts. Over three years, the free, 45-minute shows were downloaded up to 650,000 times per month.
"We will also be making documentaries too. No commercial radio station will cover the ground we are going to be charting and it will be done very differently to the BBC," he said. "The web has pulled down traditional radio's costly barriers to entry. We have invested heavily in both our people and facilities, but we have also signed up a roster of premium advertisers [Rolex and J. Crew to start] – making the service profitable from day one."
Monocle is a highly-regarded, London-based magazine and website which launched in 2007. According to its Wikipedia entry, "the magazine provides a globalist perspective on issues as fashion, international affairs and design."
Read The Telegraph's coverage here.


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Clark State President Blondin Named in BizWomen Power 50 RankingsSeptember 15, 2017
Clark State Community College President Dr. Jo Alice Blondin has been named to the 2017 BizWomen Power 50 list by the Dayton Business Journal. This marks Blondin's fourth consecutive year as a BizWomen Power 50 honoree.
"I am truly honored and humbled to be included with such incredible women in the Dayton region," said Blondin. "Without a doubt, a strong Board of Trustees and decorated faculty, staff and students are the keys to Clark State's leadership."
Toni Overholser, director of workforce and business solutions for Clark State, said it is a privilege to work with such a dynamic leader who is well deserving of this honor.
"Dr. Blondin's commitment to our students is at the forefront of everything we do at Clark State," she said. "Her mission to remove barriers for our students drives student success, which directly impacts every community in our region."
Overholser also said Blondin is dedicated to the region's business community and understands the important role a community college plays in economic and workforce growth. Blondin is currently serving as the president for the National Council for Workforce Education.
Caleb Stephens, managing editor of the Dayton Business Journal said creating the list of just 50 again proved challenging, as there are many deserving female leaders across the Dayton region.
"The BizWomen Power 50 seeks to highlight the impressive women leading the charge across the Dayton region," said Stephens."The list—compiled by the DBJ Editorial Board— features women from a variety of industries, including education, health care, manufacturing, defense, government and more."


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Shiny new shoes? Check. Neon backpack? Check. Deodorant? Definitely check.
School starts on Monday in Manatee County, Florida, and for many parents that means it's time to shop.
But for families who are already struggling to make ends meet, school supplies can be one more distressing financial burden.
That's where some locals with the spirit of giving are stepping in to help out.
On Thursday night, friendly volunteers stood behind tables loaded with clothes outside of Freedom Gathering Church on 14th Street West in Bradenton. Rows of colorful backpacks full of school and hygiene supplies were stacked alongside.
All of the items were free of charge for parents who came pick them up for their young children.
The religious nonprofit organization coordinated the giveaway with members of Bradenton's First Church of the Nazarene and some generous local individuals.
Oscar Villegas, left, and daughter Natalie, right, dropped off 18 backpacks and school supplies for the giveaway on Thursday. The Villegas donate to Freedom Gathering Church often throughout the year.
Among the donors was Oscar Villegas, who lives in Parrish and owns a landscaping business.
Villegas said the church he attended as a boy in Texas gave money to foreign nations and people in need, and it inspired him to do the same one day.
"I prayed really hard and said that if someone comes along that I can help, I promise to do that," Villegas said.
Villegas also knows what it's like to live paycheck to paycheck.
"I always worked at a job where I made just enough," Villegas says. "But God opened a big door for me, and now I'm well set. So now we are providing to others."
His daughter Natalie helped him do the shopping and deliver their donation.
Linda Wandel, a member of First Church of the Nazarene's congregation, delivered 30 backpacks and supplies purchased with donations from church members and FGC volunteers. The Nazarene congregation also recently donated 140 backpacks to H.S. Moody Elementary School.
Another 24 backpacks filled with supplies came from Amanda Roman, a Palmetto woman who saved up money from several paychecks to make the donation.
"God blessed me with the ability to buy everything, and so my mom and I picked out the school supplies and decided that Freedom Gathering was where God wanted us to help this year," Roman said.
Vicki and Cliff Hofferbert, volunteers from First Nazarene, helped distribute the backpacks.
"This place is a blessing for the community," Vicki said. "You get to hear people's real stories. And you learn to embrace them with open arms, no matter what the situation is."
Michelle Smith, another First Nazarene member who frequently volunteers at FGC, helped people pick out clothes.
Smith said she was inspired to get involved because she was helped in a time of need when she lived in New York.
"I'd rather give help hand to hand than just donating to a charity," Smith said. "That's how I was helped."
Smith says her favorite part is seeing the smiles on faces of those that the organization serves.
FGC does a lot more than coordinate donations. The nonprofit serves hundreds of weekly meals to the homeless and those in need.
On Thursday night, Pastor Lee Jackson gave a sermon as a crowd of many ages and backgrounds sat down to eat together under the open sky.
"I always say we feed them naturally and spiritually," said Tonia Johnson, the Bradenton businesswoman who started FGC. "People that are homeless never get to rest or sit down and relax somewhere, so we give them a chance to do that."
The balanced meals include fresh and organic fruits and vegetables and grilled meats. On Wednesdays, the church offers a to-go lunch of sandwiches made with meat donated by Boar's Head Provisions in Sarasota.
Johnson says that FGC's clientele also includes families who have lost their homes, and sometimes cars, and are forced to live out of hotels. It leaves them without money for food or extras like school supplies.
Richard Davis was among the parents picking up supplies for his children on Thursday. Davis says he formerly had a drug addiction, but FGC helped him find recovery — and spiritual deliverance. Now he's working again.
"God has his hand on this place," Davis said.
"Never lose faith," he added. "You can't have testimony without the test."
There were still more backpacks left to give by then end of the event, which volunteers said would be distributed over the next several weeks.
--Republished with permission from the Braedenton Herald


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The February 2004 issue of "Tramways and Urban Transport" saw the publication of an excellent article by Caspar Lucas.
It's all over the UK newspapers – our light rail revival has run out of energy, following main line railways into a financial black hole. CASPAR LUCAS is far from gloomy, and reasons the case for every town having its own tramway.
The newspapers relish – as ever, where national infrastructure and public services are concerned, negative comparisons between Britain and continental Europe.
Once again, not only are realistic solutions conspicuous by their absence, but also sensible analysis of the differences between the UK and its neighbours. The media's message is simple: the tram revolution is dead; engineers have been proved wrong. Britain's population had better get used to increasing congestion, poor bus services and no real change in public transport provision. Oh, and we could expect lots more newspaper features by globe-trotting journalists pitying those of us who had to stay at home.
As a British engineer, I can't help feeling that this point of view is not so much a depressing indictment as a failure to appreciate economic and social realities. Allow me to explain a few facts that are rarely seen in the mainstream media.
Engineering – as I was taught in a British university – is about achieving benefits for human populations using technical knowledge. But crucially, it is about achieving these benefits under the conditions in which the activity is to take place. And while we're on the subject, transport planning (also denounced in the same articles and the same terms as the "engineers") is the same, but using different tools.
If conditions change, obviously the means to achieve the benefits change as well. What continues to grab me is the all-too-persistent inability to recognise this simple fact: just because one solution is no longer valid does not mean that no change is possible or desirable.
One highly beneficial effect of a belt-tightening environment is that it encourages the search for efficiency and value for money. In particular, it brings closer scrutiny of what were previously seen as the "automatic" (tried and tested) solutions to existing problems and more rigorous comparison with other methods.
Seen in this light, the "supertram" model operating in cities across the world suddenly loses its sole panacea status. Just ten years ago I was a student in Sheffield and the supertram seemed the only show in town (literally and metaphorically). Now, however, it is not difficult to discern where the supertram concept is the appropriate solution to transport problems and where not.
As a vehicle, a supertram needs a large number of passengers to pay off its investment cost. It demands relatively generous curve radii and an overhead power supply, both of which add to the cost and inconvenience of construction and require public acceptance of the need for poles and wires. In terms of the procedures involved in approving such a scheme, the complexity can be immense. Of course, there are situations where a supertram is the appropriate solution, but all these factors increase cost to the point where serious political commitment is essential – but can be cut off. Which brings us back to where we started.
The challenge, therefore, is to improve public transport provision without breaking the bank. Is it possible? Of course it is. Can this bring additional benefits? Well, why not?
For example, it is a commonly-held view that the rail mode is good at doing three things: intercity passenger; bulk freight; and suburban mass transit. It is interesting – and a little alarming – that this belief was the guiding principle behind the 1963 Beeching Report. (That it is included in the SRA's document "Everybody's Railway" is certainly food for thought.) The reason for this thinking is that heavy rail is, well, heavy. That means high cost of rolling stock, high power, high cost of infrastructure and high cost of maintenance. Result: intensive use by high-revenue traffic is required to pay the bills (and even then some subsidy is often needed). An equilibrium is then reached and you tinker with it at your peril.
But by applying the same logic we arrive at an interesting alternative equilibrium. If heavy rail balances with heavy cost, then genuine light rail balances with light cost. Low cost allows operation with low revenue requirement, which in turn means fewer people are required to make it viable. In summary, by reducing the inherent costs of a rail operation we reduce the size of market needed to support it.
So far, so obvious. Yet this really ought to be a rallying call for improved public transport, because the point which seems to get lost is what this means to people's lives. We can bring the benefits of rail travel to smaller communities: we can expand rail! It is partly a case of the age-old paradox: when money is seen to be available, some of the effective uses of resources can be overlooked. When funds are scarce – and provided the right attitude is taken – new possibilities emerge. It is also partly a case of new thinking and new products entering the marketplace. There is good news to be reported, but in general it does not reflect the expectations of many because it does not take the form that is expected.
The new approach
Let me describe a few ways in which the new approach for light rail differs from what went before it. Those who have been following developments may be well aware of these, but what is new is the growing acceptance generally of the principles outlined below.
First, a light rail vehicle is not necessarily a high-capacity, electrically-powered, urban metro. Let us consider spreading the application of tramway-style operation to areas of lower population density, and making the vehicle self-powered.
Second, a railway does not have to be operated by heavy rail vehicles – the use of lighter railcars based on tramway technology may be the best option, but can still retain the option of using the same line for classic trains.
Third, heritage railway routes do not have to be run as museums only. In many cases, a true passenger service to meet local transport needs can be dovetailed into the heritage operation.
Fourth, innovative transport solutions do not have to be so expensive that massive political support is needed to make them happen.
The work of organisations such as of the Association of Community Rail Partnerships and Transport 2000 is bringing this new thinking to the forefront of transport development, in such a way that a fifth difference could be added to the above list: the impetus behind transport policy does not have to be the preserve of large public bodies.
Into this bubbling cauldron can be added the hardware that makes this all viable: the vehicles, such as those proposed by some innovative British ventures; the track products enabling quick and easy installation; the processes for simplifying approvals (another advantage of widening the gap between traditional rail transport and what we are discussing in this article).
The range of applications for which, for instance, Parry People Mover (PPM) vehicles are currently being considered, is very interesting in its range and demonstrates the breaking down of boundaries between types of rail system. Apart from the well-documented and still ongoing project to use PPM technology on the Stourbridge Town branch, the burgeoning interest includes several different types of transport systems.
PPM car 12 is currently in service on the Chasewater Railway in Staffordshire, where it has already built up several thousand kilometres of running and carries paying passengers on a regular basis. This is providing an invaluable shakedown test of the vehicle design on a railway with similar characteristics to other rural lines which may be converted to light rail operation. The railway's managers have begun looking into how the combination of rural rail and tram-type features can be applied to create better connection to other nearby attractions and to the local town centre.
A similar application to the Stourbridge branch is under development to introduce light rail services to the town of Oswestry in Shropshire. Future drivers from the Cambrian Railway Society are being trained on the PPM railcar at the Chasewater Railway. Proposals for a PPM system linking the Racecourse and town have been widely publicised in Cheltenham. In both Llandudno and Great Yarmouth, proposals are being pursued with a view to providing transport links in the areas of the respective sea fronts.
At Hythe in Hampshire, a PPM system is being considered as replacement for the existing 600 metre pier railway which meets passengers off the ferry service from Southampton. It is possible to extend this railway converted to tramway mode into the town itself in a loop, providing a unique opportunity for visitors and the local population to actually beat the car journey into Southampton by a faster tram and ferry link.
As a result of the weight restriction on Hythe pier, this application is likely to see the first appearance of a bogied flywheel-powered vehicle. Such a design will allow a maximum passenger load of 80, while retaining the use of a flywheel energy storage system with regenerative braking and a low-emission LPG engine, the long range version of the PPM package. Meanwhile, a major NHS trust in Birmingham is looking into the same mode being used as an internal distributor system as a means of overcoming chronic competition for car parking spaces near principal access points.
A measure of the seriousness with which the PPM product is being taken is provided by two recent developments: proposals for improvement of transport links to an expanded Wolverhampton Airport include a PPM link to Stourbridge Junction, while a major leasing company has expressed strong support for providing finance for PPM vehicles.
It is intended that many of the above applications will benefit from the use of a new range of products from HoldFast Carpet Track Limited, a development from the company's already successful level crossing building system. This opens up the prospect of street tramway installation by removal of a six-inch deep strip of road surface, and inserting a tramway and surrounds as a neat kit of parts.
But if all this can be done in the UK by reducing the costs of light rail provision, then the potential for radical change overseas is phenomenal. Cost reduction can bring attractive public transport to more people in the West whereas in African countries it can bring it for the first time.
Metros and supertrams are not a viable proposition in countries such as Ghana and Kenya, but their major cities are now seeing the unpleasant results of enormous growth coupled with no alternative to bus or taxi for the majority of the population. Interest has been expressed from other quarters too. Recent enquiries about the new light rail concept applications have been received from South Africa, the Netherlands, Greece and USA. We may yet see a British rail industry exporting rolling stock to the world.
The Status Quo
But before we start dreaming too much, let us reassess the situation as it stands. In the current climate it has become more difficult to attract finance for mega-projects such as supertrams. This presents an opportunity, if one is prepared to let other transport possibilities enter the arena. Attention that used to be focused on large-scale, high-capacity schemes should be partly diverted on developments that remain realistic. Any given system may be right for a particular application, but the right solution should always be sought for each situation – "horses for courses", as they say.
If large amounts of funding are not available for large benefits from large projects, then the right thing to do is identify where small projects which are affordable will still bring proportionate benefits. This is happening because engineers, transport planners and business people are doing what they should do in the prevailing circumstances: using the resources available rather than forming a queue around an almost empty treasure chest.
The merchants of doom are wrong. Just as the absence of a high-speed network does not in itself mean that a railway 7 June, 2004d just because of the absence of large urban tramway projects.
Caspar Lucas is an Associate of JPM Parry & Associates Limited, involved in the development of the Parry People Mover and bringing it into full commercial service. He graduated from the University of Sheffield in 1997 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering with French and subsequently worked for Connex South Central Limited and ALSTOM Transport Limited in rail vehicle engineering and project management, becoming a Chartered Mechanical Engineer in 2002.


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Kamal Nath asserts diplomatic immunity in 1984 riots case
Urban development minister Kamal Nath has claimed diplomatic immunity and lack of service of summons before a US court in a case over his alleged role in the November 1984 anti-Sikh riots.world Updated: Jul 01, 2011 11:12 IST
Urban development minister Kamal Nath has claimed diplomatic immunity and lack of service of summons before a US court in a case over his alleged role in the November 1984 anti-Sikh riots.
In response to summons issued by Judge Robert W Sweet of the US federal court for the southern district of New York, Kamal Nath claimed diplomatic immunity stating that he was on a special mission as a government official on his numerous travels to New York.
He has also claimed sovereign immunity under common law; and immunity under Foreign Sovereign Immunity Act (FSIA) of the US in the case filed by Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), a US based human rights advocacy group, and some victims of the 1984 riots.
Requesting the court to dismiss the law suit, Kamal Nath filed a sworn affidavit that during his April 2010 visit to New York, no one ever served him with the summons and complaint.
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, SFJ legal advisor, suggested that Kamal Nath's June 24 affidavit "clearly and blatantly contradicts his earlier statements".
On April 6, Kamal Nath publicly acknowledged receiving the summons, he said.
According to Pannun, he then stated: "A piece of paper was given to me. I will have to see what the piece of paper is all about."
"I really have no clue about it. I don't have a basis and I don't know the authenticity. I don't know the validity. It was for the first time that I saw it," he was quoted as saying.
Sweet had March 1 issued summons to Nath and the Congress party in the case accusing them of "conspiring, aiding, abetting and carrying out organised attacks on Sikh population of India in November 1984", according to Pannun.


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Rasm-e-Duniya Episode 23 in HD
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Rasm-e-Duniya Episode 22 in HD
The summary of this serial is very unique as its a tale of two brothers Harib & Faris, who fell in love with the same girl Haya, however the family ties are effected gruesomely that builds miles of distant relationships. Haya loves Faris (vice versa) but Harib has his eyes over Haya and forcefully marries her. The play will also reveal the hidden truth about Musarat & Tabrez who happens to be in love once and the story could not go further, but the agony Musarat holds for her failure past will be avenged and thus the commotion begins.This mesmerizing drama is a combination of betrayal, rebound connection, love and paranoid affection that takes a journey to menace.
Cast :
Sami Khan as Harib
Armeena Khan as Haya
Bilal Abbas as Faris
Javed Sheikh as Tabrez
Samina Peerzada as Musarat
Erum Azam as Haya
Writer: Imran Nazir
Director: Roomi Insha


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Also known as: Al-Qa'ida in Iraq; Al-Qa'ida in Iraq – Zarqawi; Al-Qa'ida of Jihad in the Land of the Two Rivers; Al-Qa'ida of Jihad Organization in the Land of the Two Rivers; Al-Tawhid; Al-Tawhid and al-Jihad; Brigades of Tawhid; Islamic State of Iraq; Dawla al-Islamiya; Dawla al-Islamiya fi al-Iraq wa as-Sham; Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham; Jama'at al-Tawhid wa'al-Jihad; Kateab al-Tawhid; Mujahidin Shura Council; Qaida of the Jihad in the Land of the Two Rivers; Tanzeem Qa'idat al Jihad Bilad al Raafidaini; Tanzim Qa'idat al-Jihad fi Bilad al-Rafidayn; The al-Zarqawi network; The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant; The Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham; The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria; The Islamic Caliphate; The Islamic Caliphate State; The Islamic State of Iraq and Greater Syria; The Monotheism and Jihad Group; The Organisation Base of Jihad Country of the Two Rivers; The Organisation Base of Jihad Mesopotamia; The Organisation of Jihad's Base in the Country of the Two Rivers; Unity and Holy Struggle; Unity and Holy War; Unity and Jihad Group.
This statement is based on publicly available information about Islamic State. To the Australian Government's knowledge, this information is accurate, reliable and has been corroborated by classified information.
Division 102 of the Criminal Code provides that for an organisation to be listed as a terrorist organisation, the Attorney-General must be satisfied on reasonable grounds that the organisation:
For the purposes of listing a terrorist organisation under the Criminal Code, the doing of a terrorist act includes the doing of a specific terrorist act, the doing of more than one terrorist act and the doing of a terrorist act, even if a terrorist act does not occur.
The first listing of this group for proscription purposes was under the Arabic name it formerly used, Tanzim Qa'idat al-Jihad fi Bilad al-Rafidayn, in 2005. The group was re-listed under this name on 17 February 2007.
The group was formerly listed as al-Qa'ida in Iraq on 1 November 2008; and re-listed on 29 October 2010 and 12 July 2013.
The group was formerly listed as Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) on 14 December 2013.
On 11 July 2014, the group was listed as Islamic State to reflect the expansion of its operating area and its announcement of an Islamic caliphate on 29 June 2014. This statement has been prepared to support its continued listing.
Islamic State is an Iraq and Syria-based Sunni extremist group and former al-Qa'ida affiliate that adheres to a global jihadist ideology. Islamic State follows an extreme interpretation of Islam which is anti-Western, promotes sectarian violence and targets those that do not agree with its interpretations as infidels and apostates. Islamic State's announcement of a caliphate claimed the land from Aleppo in Syria to Diyala in Iraq, the Sunni-dominated areas of both countries. It aims to establish a salafist-orientated Islamist state spanning Iraq, Syria and other parts of the Levant and now operates in parts of Syria and Iraq as a consolidated organisation separate from al-Qa'ida and its affiliates. Islamic State has also accepted pledges of allegiance from a number of like-minded groups elsewhere in the world to further its influence globally.
Since the formation of Islamic State, the group has focussed on capturing and consolidating its control over areas of Iraq and Syria by stoking sectarian tensions between, and within, Sunni and Shia; capitalising on Sunni disenfranchisement. By late 2015, Islamic State had captured significant territory in Iraq and Syria. In Iraq, the group controlled Fallujah in Anbar Province and most of Ninewa Province, including Mosul, Iraq's second largest city. In Syria, Islamic State controlled parts of Raqqah, Dayr az-Zawr, Homs, Aleppo, al-Hassakah and Rif Damascus provinces; including the cities of Raqqah, Dayr az-Zawr, and Palmyra. Islamic State faced significant territorial losses and leadership attrition in 2016, particularly in Iraq; however, remains in control of parts of Ninewa Province in Iraq and large areas of the provinces of Raqqah and Dayr az-Zawr, as well as parts of Homs, al-Hassakah and Aleppo provinces in Syria.
Islamic State is one of the world's deadliest and most active terrorist organisations and conducts daily attacks on security forces and civilians in Iraq and Syria; and against rival opposition groups. Islamic State also inspires, encourages, enables and directs attacks internationally; ranging from low-capability attacks with knives, vehicles or small arms through to complex, coordinated mixed-mode attacks with firearms and explosives. Its attacks often aim to maximise casualties and publicity by targeting crowds and gatherings at festivals and religious events; choosing targets such as churches, nightclubs, music venues and national commemorations for symbolic value. Islamic State also targets police and military personnel, both within and outside Iraq and Syria. The group incites and conducts violence against Muslims and non-Muslim religious minorities within the region, and conducts public executions and violent punishments in areas it controls.
Islamic State's operations in Iraq and Syria consist of military operations and daily terrorist attacks including; bombings, suicide bombings, suicide car bombs, armed attacks including sniper attacks, as well as the use of human shields.
In Iraq, attacks are mostly in the centre, in and around Baghdad and in the provinces to the north and west. Attacks in the Kurdish-majority northern provinces and the Shia-majority provinces in the south are less common but do occur. Islamic State's primary targets in Iraq are; security forces, Shia civilians in public areas, including cafes, mosques and markets, political figures, community and tribal leaders who publicly condemn the Islamic State, and anti-Islamic State militias. By attacking these targets, the group hopes to undermine security force efforts to contain the group, destroy public confidence in the security forces and provoke a widespread revolt against the government. Islamic State also attacks and controls elements of infrastructure including bridges, oil fields and dams, to cause major damage and restrict local security forces' freedom of movement.
In Syria, attacks are predominately against the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad, but Islamic State also attacks some other Syrian armed opposition groups, which it considers apostates and infidels as well as on occasion directly targeting civilians. Islamic State has targeted Turkish forces, Turkish, Kurdish and Shia militants in northern Syria, Syrian refugees and Kurdish organisations in Turkey. In the Middle East, Islamic State has conducted a range of attacks in Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey; and also threatened attacks against the Governments of Turkey and Saudi Arabia.
Significant attacks either claimed by, or reliably attributed to, Islamic State since the group was last proscribed (in July 2014) include:
Several media statements have been issued by the group that advocate the doing of terrorist acts, including:
21 September 2014: former Islamic State spokesman Abu Muhammad al-Adnani released a statement calling on its followers in the West to kill citizens of Western countries in terrorist attacks.
Islamic State is an Iraq and Syria-based Sunni extremist group and former al-Qa'ida affiliate that adheres to a global jihadist ideology. Islamic State follows an extreme interpretation of Islam which is anti-Western, promotes sectarian violence and targets those that do not agree with its interpretations as infidels and apostates.
The group became an al-Qa'ida affiliate in October 2004 when its former leader, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, pledged allegiance to Usama bin Laden. In late 2011, the group established operations in Syria through its former subordinate organisation, Jabhat al-Nusra (now known as Jabhat Fatah al-Sham). In April 2013, current Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi announced the creation of ISIL to subsume the then Jabhat al-Nusra and consolidate operations across Iraq and Syria.
The then Jabhat al-Nusra (and now Jabhat Fatah al-Sham) leader Abu-Muhammad al-Jawlani attempted to annul the announcement by pledging allegiance to al-Qa'ida leader Ayman al-Zawahiri. In June 2013, al-Zawahiri ruled that the then Jabhat al-Nusra was the only al-Qa'ida affiliate in Syria and annulled the creation of ISIL. However, al-Baghdadi refused to follow this ruling and confirmed the creation of ISIL, later announcing the formation of Islamic State with himself as the Caliph in June 2014. The group now operates in parts of Syria and Iraq as a consolidated organisation separate from Jabhat Fatah al-Sham and al-Qa'ida. Islamic State has also accepted pledges of allegiance from like-minded groups elsewhere in the world; some of which include ISIL-Libya, ISIL-Sinai, Boko Haram and the Abu Sayyaf Group.
Islamic State's current leader and self-proclaimed Caliph is Ibrahim Awwad Ibrahim Ali al-Badri. He has many aliases and is usually known as Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi or Abu Du'a. Al-Baghdadi became the leader following the May 2010 death of his predecessor, Abu Hamza al-Muhajir. He is currently believed to be located in either Syria or Iraq.
The official spokesman of Islamic State, Abu al-Hassan al-Muhajir, released his first speech in December 2016 after former spokesperson Abu Muhammad al-Adnani was killed in an airstrike in August 2016. While Islamic State has faced leadership attrition in 2016, the fluid nature of Islamic State leadership, with other members being able to fill roles as required, has allowed the group to continue its local operations and international attack planning.
Islamic State has a hierarchical structure, featuring overall leadership councils and provincial governments in both Iraq and Syria. Regional and specialist cells act with relative autonomy under general direction from senior leaders. While Islamic State's affiliates elsewhere in the world largely act independently from the organisation's leadership in Iraq and Syria, they adhere to its jihadist ideology.
Islamic State has several thousand members in Iraq and Syria; mostly young Iraqi and Syrian Sunni men and foreign fighters. While its numbers were boosted in 2014 by its success in capturing Iraqi cities and coercing or convincing Sunni tribes to ally with the group, fighter numbers in Iraq and Syria are estimated to have fallen from estimates of over 65 000, to 20 000 to 30 000 after Islamic State faced significant military losses on the battlefield through 2016.
Due to Islamic State's Iraqi origins, a large number of its Syria-based senior operatives and leadership are Iraqi nationals. Fighters in both countries are able to pass freely across the border, which is no longer recognised by Islamic State.
Islamic State uses a combination of threats, incentives and ideology to recruit new members, including a sophisticated social media campaign in several languages. It mostly targets young Sunni men worldwide, exploiting anger at the perceived mistreatment of Sunni Muslims and encouraging them to join in restoring an Islamic caliphate. Islamic State also targets young women and children. Islamic State has forcefully recruited from areas under its control and is known to run schools to indoctrinate children into its extremist ideology at a young age. It also aims to recruit Iraqi security force members to gather intelligence and undermine the performance of those who oppose the group.
Although foreign fighters in Syria with an extremist mindset were initially drawn to the then Jabhat al-Nusra, Islamic State's effective social media messaging, willingness to accept members rejected by the then Jabhat al-Nusra and highly publicised military successes resulted in a greater flow of international recruits to Islamic State and the defection of some former Jabhat al-Nusra members. Islamic State attracted a large number of foreign fighters, including Westerners, following the announcement of the caliphate in June 2014. While foreign fighter numbers joining Islamic State in Iraq and Syria decreased throughout 2016, the group began encouraging potential recruits to go directly to other Islamic State outposts, or stay in their home countries to launch attacks as part of its global campaign.
Islamic State initially relied on funds donated for operations in Syria to also fund its activities in Iraq and transfers weapons, fighters and resources between the two countries. As Islamic State expanded, it began seizing assets from areas under its control, particularly oil refineries and banks. While oil is a major source of revenue, Islamic state also taxes and extorts those living in areas under its control. Additionally, Islamic State obtains funding through extortion, protection rackets, kidnapping, theft, black marketeering, smuggling and legitimate businesses.
Islamic State's success in Iraq, particularly in 2014, attracted the support of other terrorist groups around the world with a number of Islamist militant organisations declaring allegiance or support to Islamic State; particularly from the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia. While some of these groups were created as a response to Islamic State's call for Muslim support, others were already in existence. Islamic State has accepted a number of pledges of allegiance; however, this does not always indicate a working relationship or operational ties. Islamic State has had contentious relationships with various Syrian opposition groups which have included cooperation where tactically useful.
Four groups currently listed as terrorist organisations under the Criminal Code are either official Islamic State affiliates or have publically pledged support for the group. They include the Abu Sayyaf Group, Boko Haram, Islamic State–Libya and Islamic State–Sinai.
Islamic State's coordinated and effective propaganda campaign has exposed susceptible Australians to an extremist ideology and influenced some toward radicalisation. Around 100 Australians are currently in Syria/Iraq fighting with or supporting Islamic extremist groups—the majority are with Islamic State. Australians fighting with Islamic State have been involved in acts of violence including suicide bombings and holding the decapitated head of a Syrian soldier following Islamic State beheadings; incidents subsequently used in Islamic State's propaganda campaign.
Islamic State continues to openly call for attacks against Australia and its interests, both because of Australia's support to military operations against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, and because of the group's anti-Western ideology. Islamic State promotes its opposition to Australia through propaganda material, foreign fighter videos and speeches by senior leadership.
Islamic State has promoted terrorist attacks in Australia and has openly praised terrorist incidents in Australia, including:
Islamic State is listed as Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant under the United Nations Security Council resolution 2253 (2015) which expands on the United Nations Security Council resolution 1267 (1999) Sanctions Committee's consolidated list. It is also listed as a proscribed terrorist organisation by the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and New Zealand.
Islamic State is not engaged in any peace or mediation process.
On the basis of the above information, ASIO assesses that Islamic State continues to be directly or indirectly engaged in, preparing, planning, assisting in or fostering the doing of terrorist acts or advocates the doing of terrorist acts, involving threats to human life and serious damage to property.
In the course of pursuing its objectives, Islamic State is known to have committed or threatened actions that:


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Dwight Howard looks at me as if I have just asked him to start playing basketball in a polka-dotted tutu and pink ballet slippers.
"I've got good form and I have confidence in my shot," he insists. "I don't need to shoot underhanded free throws."
Rick Barry disagrees.
And with all due respect to Dwight Howard, who entered last night's game against the Phoenix Suns shooting a miserable 53 percent from the free throw line, I'm going to have to go with Rick Barry on this one.
You see, Barry is one of the greatest free throw shooters who ever lived. When he retired, Barry held the NBA record for most consecutive free throws made (60), highest free throw percentage in a season (.947) and best for a career (.900). And he did it with an underhanded style that today's image-conscious millionaires would never even consider.
"Machismo and ego is the only reason nobody will even try it anymore," Barry says. "I'm telling you, I could change the dynamic of Dwight Howard's game forever. I would be shocked if I couldn't get him up to 75 or 80 percent from the line.
"And could you imagine Dwight Howard if you could just get him in the 70 percentile? He would be unstoppable. He would be unbelievable."
For years, Barry has unsuccessfully been trying to convince lousy free throw shooters to try his underhanded method. He says the only NBA player he has ever worked with is former Golden State teammate George Johnson, who improved nearly 20 percent when he started shooting underhanded.
At one time, Barry says he almost had Shaq convinced to go underhanded, but the Lakers refused to hire him and Shaq was worried that the "granny style" would not be good for his hip-hop image.
Shaq was once quoted by Sports Illustrated as saying he would "shoot a negative percentage before I shot like that [underhanded]." Wilt Chamberlain, another iconic big man, shot underhanded free throws for a while but stopped because, as he once wrote, "I felt like a sissy."
Are you as stunned as I am that there are actually professional athletes more worried about their image than their performance? Personally, I'm just the opposite. If, for instance, it meant I could write a sports column like Jim Murray or Rick Reilly, I would sit down at my laptop wearing a frilly purple teddy and a periwinkle feather boa.
Despite his frustration, Barry says he understands the trepidation of athletes not wanting to go granny. He was the same way when he was a high school junior and his father beseeched him to start shooting underhanded. At first he objected and told his dad he would get laughed at for being a "sissy" but then he started seeing immediate results.
"I thank God my dad was relentless in his pursuit to get me to try it," Barry says.
And now it's up to us, Orlando, to be equally relentless in our pursuit to get Dwight to try it. Seriously, what harm could it possibly do? It's not like it would ruin his stroke. This is, after all, Dwight's seventh year in the league and he has a career .597 free throw percentage. Isn't it obvious by now that the conventional style is not going to work for him?
Barry says the underhanded method is perfect for a muscle-bound player like Dwight because it would force him to relax. It makes sense. I mean, think about this: The natural position of the body is to stand with your arms hanging down in a completely relaxed position. When you shoot overhanded, the body is in an unnatural position and therefore has a tendency to tense and tighten up.
"When Dwight shoots overhanded, he has no touch or feel," Barry says. "The underhanded shot is a much softer shot, and even if it is off-line, there's the chance it will bounce on the rim and go in."
Barry, always blunt and outspoken, is flabbergasted that someone like Dwight won't even consider going underhanded.
"What's it matter what you look like when the ball is going in the basket?" Barry says. "I would love to work with Dwight. The bottom line is this: He is horrible overhanded so what does he have to lose?"
Nothing — except perhaps a tiny bit of machismo.
Then again, Dwight idolizes The Man of Steel, who wears his underpants over blue tights with a red, flowing cape.
Is Superman's outfit any less masculine than granny's free throws?
Read Mike Bianchi's blog at OrlandoSentinel.com/openmike and listen to him every weekday from 6 to 9 a.m. on 740-AM. You can e-mail him at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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slavery. Pharaoh would not release his Israelite slaves.
God inflicted ten plagues upon the Egyptians. The tenth plague was the killing of firstborn sons. God instructed the Israelites to mark the doorposts of their homes with the blood of a spring lamb. When the spirit of God saw these marks, He passed over these homes, hence the term "passover".
Pharaoh freed the Israelites, after which they left in such a hurry that they could not wait for bread to rise.
In commemoration, for the duration of Passover, Jews do not eat any leavened bread.


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Just Sold in North Vancouver, 460 East St- James Road, Scott Warner North Vancouver Realtor
Properties Recently SoldPublished: 2016-05-26 at 22:23:40
Recently Sold
We have just sold 460 East St. James Road in North Vancouver's Upper Lonsdale neighborhood, and want congratulate Alex and David on the sale of their home. We wish you all the best.
Back to other news this month


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WAXAHACHIE (CBSDFW.COM) – A young man with Down Syndrome – but importantly, talent – shined in the spotlight Saturday night.
Dane Porter is a 20-year-old senior at Waxahachie High School. CBS 11 News first brought you Dane's story in April.
His parents say it was hard to get him into music classes, but Dane was able to fit right into a WHS percussion class.
Dane loves to play the drums, according to his mom, Robin Porter.
Then came his big break. Dane was invited to play with the WHS band.
Dane made his debut performance at the school's April pep rally for the Special Olympics (VIDEO BELOW).
Dane smiles and plays along in the purple camo shirt, front and center.
However, on Saturday night, Dane was able to perform again. This time at the Waxahacie High School's Fine Arts Center.
The performance was a "stomp percussion performance" according to the Waxahachie Light.
WATCH the full performance here.
Here's a picture of the performance. Dane is sitting on the floor, in the front.
In only a few weeks, Porter is expected to graduate from WHS.
(©2014 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
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I am Graduate in Computer Science (B.Sc.), U.K. and Civil Engineering (B.E.) India. Since my schooling I enjoyed maths while learning and applying to solving problems. Last few years I was teaching GCSE Maths and helping solve past exam papers to students of my close ones. Recently I have started tutoring home and away in my spare times. Maths is fun once fundamentals are grasped correctly and I am passionate about helping students understand and solve problems.
Providing maths tutoring for students in my home, student's home and also online.


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…and keep on going :) Change your mind and change your life
Adventures of a Francophile
Travel Blog of a Budget Traveler sharing stories on travel, books & Vegetarian Food
Our adventures in Boris our motorhome
Where shall we go today?
A tribute to the people remembered by memorial benches
Harrogate • Yorkshire • Beauty • Food • Lifestyle • Blogger
One Man, One Van and No Plan.
Do more of what makes you happy!
Sell the house and hit the road in a motorhome!
Art. Travel. Lifestyle.
Inspiring greater social change in the world.
The adventures of Romarna, Rodney & Rudy, in a VW across Europe.
food, travel and musings of a TV presenter
Travel diaries providing inspiration for planning the perfect trip


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Mini-Bonds – A Beginner's Guide
January 29, 2015
Mini-bonds are all the rage just now, what with Hotel Chocolat, Mexican restaurant chain Chilango and coffee shop Taylor Street Baristas having recently completed successful fundraisings. As this is a relatively new form of alternative finance, we thought it would be helpful to set out a beginner's guide to mini-bonds.
What is a mini-bond?
A mini-bond is like any other bond: it is essentially an IOU issued by a company to an investor, in exchange for regular interest payments and the value of their investment returned at the stated maturity date.
The coupon on a mini-bond is often higher than on a retail bond (for the reasons explained below), and some companies have offered unusual coupons instead of or along with cash – for instance John Lewis offered a fixed coupon of 4.5% in cash with a further 2% in gift vouchers, and Taylor Street Baristas offered its customers who bought mini-bonds in-store credit to buys its coffee.
Ok, I understand now. But how do they differ from retail bonds?
The main difference is that mini-bonds are not traded on the stock market. There are two major implications of this:
- Firstly, investors who purchase mini-bonds will be holding them until they mature, unlike retail bonds which can be traded on the London Stock Exchange's Order Book for Retail Bonds. This makes mini-bonds a fairly illiquid investment.
- Secondly, a prospectus is not required to list them – this means that mini-bonds will not be subject to the same intense scrutiny as retail bonds, whose prospectus will be drafted and signed-off by lawyers and financial advisers.
However, investors do receive some protections – for instance the issue of a mini-bond will still be subject to the financial promotions regime under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, meaning that all documents marketing the mini-bond will have to be by a person approved by the Financial Conduct Authority.
What are the risks for an investor?
Mini-bonds have a relatively high risk profile - they are often issued by small to medium sized private companies who are in need of capital, with the probability of a default greater compared to retail bonds issued by larger companies.
Further, as they do not need to file a prospectus, there is less financial disclosure involved with the issue of mini-bonds, making it more difficult to ascertain the issuing company's financial health.
Also, it's worth noting that mini-bonds are generally unsecured – if they are unsecured, the holders will rank behind any secured debt holder (such as the issuing company's bank), should the issuing company default on its debts.
Should my company consider issuing mini-bonds?
A major advantage of issuing mini-bonds versus retail bonds is that as they are not to be listed on the stock exchange, there are less regulatory hurdles to be met (as no prospectus is required) – it is therefore much cheaper to issue mini-bonds to market. However companies listing mini-bonds will still need to abide by parts of the UK's financial services legislative regime.
One point to flag is the nature of the companies issuing mini-bonds: most of them are in the retail or food and drink sector, and have direct contact with consumers. Like with crowdfunding, companies that are able to market a mini-bond directly to those customers who are willing to 'buy-into the concept' may have the most success with fundraising.
Fox Williams LLP are experts at advising entrepreneurs and fintech businesses. For more information as to how Fox Williams can help you (including arranging a free consultation) or for further information on the issues discussed in this article, please liaise with either Jonathan Segal or Elliot Cowan.


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Beer, art come together to celebrate Houston in weekly event
When picturing a record label painted canvases, etched wood and intricate drawings don't typically come to mind. Luckily for Houston residents, Roologic isn't a typical record label.
Roologic Records, Houston's newest record label, is a creative conglomerate that compiles the sights and sounds that make H-town unique. In the spirit of loving all things Houston, the label hosts a free weekly event at House of Blues to show off the many talents harbored in the city.
PHOTOS: Check out everyone who attended the Roologic Records launch party
Local artists curated by Chelsea Mariah of Roologic Visuals, are on tap for the "I <3 HTX Art" event which allows artists to answer questions about their work. Attendees enjoy local music, art, food and drinks from 8-11 p.m. every Thursday at the Foundation Room.
"I love the idea of local artist who are used to vending at festivals or showing in galleries being able to show their work inside the swanky foundation room at House of Blues, to people who normally may not see their art," Mariah said.
Some featured artists include Alex Ramos, Lauren Boulden, Luke Poteete and Kara Timmons.
Click the gallery above to see inside a I <3 HTX ART event


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The Three Imperatives
Went down to the Boston Public Library for the first time since the renovations. There are now two cafes, plus a sit-down restaurant, in the building. It got me to thinking that in our day Americans demand three things of all public venues:
-Refreshments, particularly coffee
-Video screens (displaying something, it doesn't matter what)
If you don't have those three, forget it. Americans aren't interested. Malls, rest stops, libraries, college campuses, churches–all must have them.
I do not wish to see the modern funeral parlor.
(Lest I seem too grumpy, let me add the renovations turned out very nice, greatly mollifying the harsh Brutalist interior of the new wing. Also, I had a quite toothsome lunch in the new cafe)


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Spend $200 & get free delivery to most of Australia
Click here for all Australian freight rates
- Melbourne 1-3 working days
- Sydney 2-3 working days
- Brisbane 3-5 working days
- Adelaide 3-5 working days
- Perth 5-10+ working days
For express service, call 1800 069 295 for a quote.
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Johnnie Walker Swing Blended Scotch Whisky (750ml)
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In the 20's this blend was created for ocean liners, the decanter / bottle being designed with a rounded bottom, so that it will never tip over - just swing. A boon for the barmen who had to endure rough seas and shelf balance and a testimony to Sir Alexander Walker's ingenuity. Swing virtually disappeared for several decades to be recently re-launched as a super-premium blend. Its distribution remains largely confined to duty-free markets. We have imported a small quantity for whisky lovers to experience what is reputedly one of the smoothest, silkiest blended Scotch whiskies on the market today.
40% Alc./Vol. No tasting notes available.
Click here to learn more about Scotch Whisky


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Room 229
Technology Education promotes the application of knowledge, machines, tools, and materials to solve technical problems. Students will focus on introductory experiences in construction, manufacturing, transportation, and communication technologies. Instruction and problem solving experiences will center on the use of tools, machines, and materials to solve technological problems.
Course Outline
A. Introduction to Technology
B. Proper machine and hand tool safety
C. Manufacturing Technology
D. Transportation Technology
E. Construction Technology
F. Communication Technology
G. Projects and problem solving activities
Required Materials for Class
You are required to bring the following materials with you to class everyday.
Be Courteous Be Prepared Be Prompt Be Safe
The grade for the quarter will be based on student performance in written assignments, problem solving activities, and laboratory experiences. This course will use the following grading system:
O = outstanding 100% - 85%
S = satisfactory 84% - 70%
N = needs improvement 69% - 60%
U = unsatisfactory 59% - 0%


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Drug Addiction Resources
Addiction Resources
For those seeking help for themselves or their loved ones, making an educated decision about something that is life-changing (or life-saving) is important. Use our addiction resources library to help yourself make an informed decision. The links below can provide the answers to urgently asked questions.
Substance Abuse Statistics By State
Each state provides leadership for alcohol and drug addiction prevention and abuse statistics. Here you'll find overviews of issues relating to drug and alcohol addiction in each state, ranging from most common drugs used, alcohol and drug statistics, and addiction resources.
Acronyms of Addiction, Treatment, Recovery and Organizations
There are many acronyms that counselors and drug rehab facilities use in addiction treatment to describe levels of care, medications, support groups, online resources and mental health disorders. This list is a collection of the different types of acronyms used in addiction treatment. While reading information on this site, you can refer to the list for clarification of terms.
Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Tools
Recovery tools are helpful to aid you in sober living. They help us throughout the day and give us reminders of why we embarked in the journey of sobriety. It is important to remain consistent in your daily routine regarding sober living. Tools such as our sobriety calculator and inspirational quotes are to encourage you in your process of recovery.
Addiction & Recovery Articles
More data on addiction, substance abuse treatment, mental health disorders and recovery can easily be addressed through this series of articles. The information provided in these articles can help you understand the dynamic relationship between alcohol, drugs, addictive behavior, as well as the place of detox and addiction treatment.
Medication Treatment for Substance Abuse and Dual Diagnosis
While there are hundreds of medications abused by addicts and many medications used in the treatment of mental health disorders, there are commonly used drugs to treat dual diagnosis disorders. This section provides the reader with a glimpse of the drugs used in comprehensive, integrated dual diagnosis treatment centers.
Addiction and Eating Disorders
The ever growing number of people suffering from substance abuse and eating disorders is growing. Understanding the relationship between dual diagnosis (mental health issues and substance abuse) can provide insight into the various eating disorders that plague sufferers.
Guides on Addiction and Recovery
There are a vast range of issues confronting individuals who are seeking alcohol and drug treatment. These issues are sometimes cultural, sometimes financial and sometimes emotional. In every instance, these guides provide the reader with pertinent information to make an appropriate treatment choice.
Addiction Infographics
Understanding the depth and breadth of addiction's impact upon the body, the family and society can be daunting. Visual images designed to point out key factors can provide readers with easy access to information.
Other Addictions
Addiction can take many forms. Many times, those who suffer from drug and alcohol abuse will also engage in other addictive behaviors. Sometimes, people suffer from addictive behaviors without substance abuse. Either way, treatment that addresses the specific addiction is necessary to help the addict halt the progression of the disease of addiction and rebuild his or her life


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Peer Connections was formed in the summer of 2012 by merging two separate programs
at San José State University, the Learning Assistance Resource Center (LARC) and the
Peer Mentor Program.
The Learning Assistance Resource Center (LARC) Center evolved from the Tutorial Center housed within Student Development Services (SDS), which was originally created in 1992 to assist students in both the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and Academic Support Program for Increased Retention in Education (ASPIRE). Over the next six years, the SDS Tutorial Center extended its support services to include student athletes and students with disabilities. In 1998, Student Development Services expanded its programs and officially adopted the name of "Academic Services."
In 1999, a University task force was appointed by the Provost's Office to study the extent of students' need for academic assistance. The committee found a fragmented and decentralized system that offered various types and levels of services. Students expressed great frustration in locating programs for which they would be eligible and which would also match their specific needs. In addition, limited space, funding, and staffing issues all led to the necessity for a centralized learning center that could offer systematic services to all students requesting academic support.
In the spring of 2000, at the Provost's Forum titled "Academic Services and Learning Assistance," the task force reported its survey results to the campus community. A special consultant was appointed by the Provost's Office to work with the learning specialists at the Tutorial Center to complete the preliminary draft of a campus-wide learning center proposal. A 5-year strategic plan was developed and presented to the Provost's Office. The name Learning Assistance Resource Center (LARC) was adopted in the fall of 2000 when the Center opened its services to all San José State University (SJSU) students.
The Center's tutor training program was nationally certified by CRLA. It was cited by the University's Faculty Scholars at the 2004 SJSU College Teaching and Learning Conference as an impressive campus resource that embodies a student-centered pedagogy. In 2010, LARC also received second place from the Learning Support Centers in Higher Education (LSCHE) and the National College Learning Center Association (NCLCA) for the program's website. LARC tutors were often recognized as Dean's and President's scholars and scholarship recipients.
Peer Mentor Program
The San José State University Peer Mentor Program was established in 2000 in order to ease the transition of first year students into college. Peer Mentors were assigned to MUSE (Metropolitan University Scholar's Experience) classes. These classes of no more than 25 students were designed to meet GE credit and to enable first year students to connect more easily with a professor and a peer mentor. The peer mentors would assist the professors in the classroom as a liaison to students. The students in MUSE classes reported that having a peer mentor in the class greatly assisted them to feel like they were part of a community and could actually succeed at SJSU.
In addition to the classroom experience, peer mentors facilitated campus workshops and presentations designed to address key issues which first year students may face, such as homesickness, relationships, and test-taking. Peer mentors were also available for drop-in assistance, allowing students outside of MUSE classes and beyond first year to benefit from the peer mentors.
The Peer Mentor Program began small and was initially housed in Royce Hall, the residence hall that was specified for First Year Students. As the program grew and the campus changed, the Peer Mentor Program moved to Clark Hall after the building's remodel. In the beginning the Peer Mentor Program had 12 mentors. The program grew to 60 mentors and then was scaled back when the MUSE classes were no longer being offered.


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there is something "not normal" with the expr input to the softstep:
_of course we all know it is upside-down - if not practical this is not difficult to solve
_ I always had the feeling the expr pedals were feeling "not right" with it. So today i made a test, using a few (4) pedals, some being roland EV5 other being no-names. Of course as often none of them gives the full 0-127 range. easy to correct/calibrate. But I tried the every same pedal(s) through the soft step and other pedalboards (Boss FC50 and a custom-made MESI pedal)
the SAME pedal has a range of 0-123 through Boss and MESI, when through the softStep its range is 123-13 - that's a big difference !!!
why is it so? could you fix it?


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Here are some pictures of Peanut and Brittany playing. Brittany was not allowed out, since both buns are not fixed.
Home » pictures
We had some really nice weather this weekend, it was around the mid 30's and sunny. So we decided to get some pictures of the bunnies out in the snow. We had Binky out in the snow a couple weeks ago, so we mainly want pictures of the others. We took each bunny out one at a time on the harness, just long enough to get some nice pictures. Surprising Mr Mario fit in the harness that we have. Mr. Peanut LOVED it. He stayed near us and would hop around between me and the bf. Mr Mario also seemed to like being outside. He would hop around and start cleaning himself. Miss Cuteness didn't seem to like the snow, let alone the cooler weather. She mostly just sat in one spot. lol Silly girl. We hope she will like it better when the weather is warmer and the grass is greener.
We took Binky out in the snow on Tuesday, the day before the big storm hit south eastern WI. He seemed to enjoy the snow. 🙂 Next we plan on taking Mario out outside to play in the snow for a bit. We think Cuteness is too young to go out in the cold like that yet so she will have to wait till next year.
Here are some recent pictures of The King. More are HERE
Well as you know the bf brought home a bunny almost a month ago. He finally settled on a name for her. Super Fluffy Cuteness or Cuteness for short. Here are only some of the picture we have. You can look at the rest Here.
Okay i know i said that there wasn't going to be any Binky video and photos anymore. Well that has changed. Things have been worked out. 🙂
Binky has now a new friend. We don't have a name for her. We are calling her The Cuteness for now. She is a mini lop and is about 6 weeks old.
So we are on the search for the perfect name for her. We are taking any suggestions. 🙂


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Preschool Registration 2020/2021
2020/2021 Classes and Tuition Rates
(Classroom placement will be based on child's age as of August 31st of enrollment school year)
2 Year Olds-Monday (Mother's Morning Out) $60.00 Per Month
3 Year Olds-Tuesday-Friday $220 Per Month (Must be potty trained)
4 Year Olds-Monday - Friday $275 Per Month (Must be potty trained)
There will be a $100 non-refundable registration fee due at time of enrollment.
(Cash or check only)
A current immunization record will be required at time of registration.
Our currently enrolled preschool families can register February 17th through February 21st.
Cape Carteret Presbyterian Church Members can register February 24th through February 28th.
MARCH 2nd- OPEN ENROLLMENT
Doors Open at 9:00AM
Enrollment will be done on a first come first serve basis.
A clip board will be available outside the preschool door at 8:30AM for sign-ins.
Enrollment paperwork and additional information are available on this website under ENROLLMENT.
Enrollment forms will also be available at the time of registration.
We look forward to seeing you there!
If you have any questions regarding enrollment, please feel free to call the preschool at
252-393-6348 (M-F 8:30AM until 1:00PM)
Welcome! Thanks for visiting our site!
Established in 1998, Cape Carteret Presbyterian Preschool is a small school with a HUGE purpose!
We are blessed to have the opportunity to touch the lives of children in a working, playing, and learning preschool atmosphere, while sharing God's love and promise with them.
It is a school that STRIVES to build confidence, expand creativity, develop social skills, and create an enthusiasm for lifelong learning.
Start your children off on the right foot to begin their school experience and make it the best it can be. Contact us today!


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You may find these studies and authors helpful:
This newspaper article from the Observer (a British Newspaper) (27 Nov 2011) is both interesting and has an interesting set of comments on it.
This article provides a critique of the sustainable roundtable on soy production which may well provide some interesting comparisons and insights into the sustainable roundtable on palm oil.
Film and Media Studies
Bordwell, David and Thompson, Kristin (2010) Film Art, 9th edn, Mc-Graw-Hill, sections on documentary;
Branston, Gill with Stafford, Roy (2010) The Media Student's Book 5th edition, Routledge, esp. Chapter 13, on 'Documentary and 'reality' debates; and Chapter 1 'Approaching media texts' for more on Barthes and ideas of media 'texts'.
Coward, Ros (1984) 'The Sex-life of Stick Insects' in Female Desire, Paladin, 209-223.
A DVD which might extend study of this subject:
Dineen, Molly (2011) The Molly Dineen Collection: Vol 2—The Ark; British Film Institute; 'this long searching look at London Zoo as it lurches through a year of financial (and philosophical) crisis in 1991 is her masterwork on the subject' (Sight and Sound review, November 2011 p.83)
Environmental Studies
Ancrenaz M, Gimenez O, Ambu L, Ancrenaz K, Andau P, et al. (2005) Aerial Surveys Give New Estimates for Orangutans in Sabah, Malaysia. PLoS Biol 3(1): e3. doi:10.1371/journal.pbio.0030003
Gaveau, David L.A., Hagnyo Wandonoand Firman Setiabudi (2007) Three decades of deforestation in southwest Sumatra: Have protected areas halted forest loss and logging, and promoted re-growth?' Biological Conservation 134 (4): 495-504
Peluso, N. L. (1993) 'Coercing Conservation?: The Politics of State Resource Control.' Global Environmental Change 3:2 (June):199-218.
Peluso, N. L. (1992) Rich Forests, Poor People. Resource Control and Resistance in Java. Berkeley: University of California Press.
Both Environmental and Film and Media Studies
Bouse, D. (2000). Wildlife Films. Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Pres
Brockington, D. (2009) Celebrity and the Environment. Fame, Wealth and Power in Conservation. London: Zed. (Last Chapter)
Mitman, G. (1999) Reel Nature. America's Romance with Wildlife on Film. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
Palmer, C. (2010) Shooting in the Wild: An Insider's Account of Making Movies in the Animal Kingdom. Sierra Club Books, San Fancisco.
Warren, P. (2011) Wildlife Film-making: Looking to the Future. Wildeye, Bristol.
For Budding Filmmakers


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This family is very special to me. They had gone through a lot to get to this special day as it was unsure the groom would have a wedding someday. Another destination wedding. The families were from Atlanta and had almost a full week of parties, golf outings and gatherings before the big day. You could see the love the guests had for this couple. The rain and gloomy weather could not keep this wedding party down. We ended up having to move both ceremony and reception inside but with the help of Mugwumps, Liz Stewart and Ponte Vedra Inn and Club we created a breathtaking vision indoors. The ceiling scraping trees were a show stopping piece when their guests walked into the ceremony and reception. Thanks to Liz Stewart for bringing in nature and the beach feel inside for this couple who so desperately wanted an ocean side event.
Katharine + Will • Wedding Day Highlight from CollabCreation Films on Vimeo.


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- - Icolians
The Icolian Assemblege is a faction of Icolians native to the Odysseia Region of the Cyrannus Galaxy. The Assemblege covers only a small region of space to the galactic north of the Jenassian Regency, though possesses a level of technological advancement that exceeds many of their more famous neighbours. These Icolians exist seperately from their cousins in the Quadrant Galaxies, but are known to act as one on many occassions.
The Assemblege exists in a region of space in which the fabrics of space time are very weak, allowing them access to different futures and timelines as simply as other races might travel through space. Like the Icolians of the Quadrants, the Cyrannian Icolians are highly xenophobic and it is incredibly rare for them to leave their meticulously patrolled space. However, in the aftermath of the Great Cyrannus War the Icolians began to leave their space with greater frequency, perhaps indicating that they are searching for something.
Early HistoryEdit
The history of the Icolian Assemblege is clouded in history with the details of their supposed split from the Quadrantian Icolian a matter of conjecture and debate. However, the Icolians themselves maintain that no split occurred and that the Cyrannian and Quadrantian Icolians are united in a way similar to the Neraida Gigamatrix. The Cyrannian Icolian are believed to be native to Icolia deep within their controlled space in the Cyrannus Galaxy, an area of the galaxy in which the boundaries between realities is very small, allowing the Icolians to freely travel between dimensions.
During the Dark Times, due to their presense in the north of the Odysseia region - they prevented the Jenassian Regency from expanding in that direction. In the fourth month of 03 NE Icolian forces intercepted a lone Jenassian cruiser who entered their borders which recently rotated. The Jenassian cruiser ran upon a mine, disabling her engines when suddenly, the Icolian arrived, giving them a two hour time-limit to leave their borders.
Unable to comply, the Jenassian captain tried to defend his ship and fired upon the Icolian cruiser. In response four more Icolian light cruisers appeared and began trapping the Jenassian cruiser in their energy web and destroyed the vessel and most of it's crew, though some escape pods managed to evade the Icolian. This act raised the tensions between the Jenassian and Icolian as the Assemblage were growing tired of the Jenassian interference and stubbornness.
Several months later, the Icolians became interested in events unfolded on Mou'Cyran.
Society and CultureEdit
"They make the Basileus seem like Asgord."
The Assemblage is a highly xenophobic and alien civilisation that bares few similarities with any other Cyrannian civilisation. They are generally not understood by other civilisations due to their aggressive nature, refusal to engage in diplomacy and their rotating borders. The Icolians find it distasteful to interact with alien civilisations though often use captured reptilians and humanoids for slave labour in mines or warfare. There are three castes in Icolian society, warriors, workers and rulers, who maintain different appearances and different customs and social expectations.
- Name: Cyrannian Icolian
- Homeworld: Icolia
- Leader: Maengmum
They are generally no reports of an Icolian coming face to face with an alien lifeform, but the following information can be summised. The Icolians are a crystalline insectoid lifeform with a transparent, though visually red carapace. They have two gleaming eyes, two arms and multiple spider-like legs. While they aren't believed to have a hivemind, an Icolian is essentially immortal, when the physical body dies, the consciousness simply latches onto a new host.
Icolians have three castes with varying degrees of similarities to each other. However, they all share the above features in common. All Icolians communicated in seemingly unintelligible chirps and clicks, though this language is in actual fact far more advanced than many others in the galaxy.
Though the Icolians occupy several different timelines and dimensions consistently, their space remains relatively similar in all of these individual universes in that they control large portions of space in the Odysseia Region of the Cyrannus Galaxy, north of the Jenassian Regency and the New Cyrannian Republic. Like the Quadrantian Icolians, the Assemblege's space is in a constant state of expansion and contraction, often forcibly annexing systems that they claim to be their own, despite having no claim in interstellar law.
The military of the Assemblage relies heavily on space combat, with Icolian Warships being one of the most powerful in the entire Cyrannus Galaxy, potentially losing out only to the Galactic Empire of Cyrannus and the Neraida Gigamatrix. The Icolians themselves also maintain strings of space stations in hyperspace itself, often launching attacks from these corridors on an unsuspecting planet.
- Creator - Dinoman82
- Name - Light Cruiser
- Weaponry - Tetryon weaponry
Exactly the same design used by the Icolians in the Quadrant Galaxies. The Icolian light cruisers are the most common and basic Icolian vessel. They are also known as "catchers" by other species due to their unique trait of creating some sort of energy web when teamed up with others of her class. This energy web can disable enemy ships, giving the Icolian time to conquer the vessel or easily destroy it. The light cruisers are 25 meter long and are capable of transwarp are known to be equipped with strong shields and phasers.
- Quadrantia Icolian - Forefathers.
- New Cyrannian Republic - We will claim your world.
- Jenassian Regency - Irrelevant!
- Neraida Gigamatrix - Enemy!
"They need a good Star Destroyer where the sun don't shine."
- - Erissare
"Diplomacy is always an option, even in exceptional circumstances."
- - Apollo
"Assimilation failed. Recognise the futility of your actions."
"It is one thing to keep to your own realm, but they also see completely alien life to them as inferior? Sometimes I simply do not understand aliens."
- - Loresage Lumerios
"I don't like these scum's attitude. They should learn we can raze them off the map if we decide to."
- - Tyrant
"They look adorable! Can we keep one?"
- - Gorf
- The Icolians were created by Dinoman82, who graciously allowed Cyrannian to make his own faction.


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Zealous and Passionate Advocacy
Barbara Villa sought out a career in law to provide aid and advocacy to people when they need it most. Barbara focused her education at San Diego State University and California Western School of Law in building and fostering a relationship with the San Diego community and developing a well-rounded understanding of family law. Barbara's interest in family law stems from her understanding that family law involves some of the most work intensive and emotionally taxing issues, and thus, is the area in which she feels she could be of more impactful service.
At Fair Cadora, Barbara works in conjunction with an amazing legal team to provide the best possible legal representation to our clients. Barbara approaches every case with empathy and a willingness to work hard to lessen all negative impact on our clients.
In her spare time, Barbara enjoys painting, exercising, and traveling. Additionally, Barbara enjoys spending time with her fiancé, friends, family, and dog.
- California Western School of Law, 2018 Diversity Scholarship Recipient
- Pro Bono Honors Society
- Public Service Honors Society
- Academic Excellence Award Recipient for Advanced Legal Writing I& II o Wiley W. Manuel Certificate for Pro Bono Legal Services
- San Diego State University, 2015 Majored in Criminal Justice
- Dean's List
- Studied abroad at Oxford University, as part of the Oxford Study Abroad Progamme
Community Involvement
Community Law Project
- A California Western School of Law organization that provides free legal aid to the San Diego community and facilitates the navigation through the complex legal and social systems.
San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program
- SDVLP provides free civil legal services to low income and disadvantaged individuals of the San Diego community.
Legal Aid Society of San Diego, Inc.
o The Legal Aid Society of San Diego, Inc.,is a compassionate group of people dedicated to providing equal access to justice for underprivileged people through quality legal services.


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ITIDA to promote Egyptian ICT skills
Egypt's Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA) is gearing up to show off some of the best IT talent that the country has to offer.
Egypt's Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA) is gearing up to show off some of the best IT talent that the country has to offer.
The organisation will be hosting a delegation of 20 partners at the Egypt Pavilion, with expertise in areas ranging from digital security to human resource management software.
Visitors to the pavilion will have an opportunity to speak with representatives from ITIDA's partner companies and their UAE customers, as well as senior ITIDA executives who can discuss the IT landscape and give their analysis of Egypt's outsourcing capabilities.
ITIDA insists the size of this year's delegation highlights the strength of the country's ICT ecosystem, which has been pinpointed in recent analyst reports as the world's fastest rising IT outsourcing hotspot.
Dr Hazem Abdelazim, CEO at ITIDA, explains Egypt's strength: "Egypt's young population, sustainable and abundant talent pool of technologically skilled and multi-lingual university graduates, its geographical position close to Europe and Asia coupled with strong government support, are all factors which contribute to Egypt being an outsourcing hotspot."
Egypt's ICT sector has managed to maintain growth rates of up to 20% and attract local and foreign investments of more than US$8 billion over the past three years. Recent highlights for ITIDA include a US$10m agreement with Google, strategic collaboration with Cisco and the signing of MoUs with Oracle and the American Arab Chamber of Commerce.