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One of the best investments one can make for the future is to invest in transatlantic exchange between students and other young people. The young generations play a key role in maintaining the transatlantic link in the long term and in keeping the link strong in today's rapidly changing world.
Monday 25 February 2019
In his long career, Paolo Nespoli, astronaut from the European Space Agency (ESA), born in 1957 in Italy, went into the space three times (in 2007, in 2010–2011 and in 2017), for a total of 313 days. He started out his career as a soldier in Lebanon as part of the Italian military. There he met the famous Italian journalist Oriana Fallaci, who inspired him to go to study Aerospace Engineering in the United States, in order to fulfil his childhood dream of becoming an astronaut. He retired in November 2018.
In this interview, Paolo Nespoli takes the opportunity to speak out for protection of the environment, the value of scientific research, the European Union and to encourage young people to follow their dreams.
Tuesday 29 January 2019
Nowadays, young people hardly appreciate concepts like democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights. But that should not be condemned: who, if anybody at all, explained to them where these concepts come from and who guarantees them? How can young people be encouraged to think (...)
Saturday 19 January 2019
A number of debates concerning issues such as LGBTI rights, feminism and combatting racism have only recently gained importance. Sadly, not everyone is willing to discuss these matters, and to view them as normal and of significance for the development of society. Even if the results and consequences of these discussions may take a long time yet to become apparent, they should not be abandoned. Let's have a look at the example of Scotland.
Wednesday 9 January 2019
Most of the kids growing up in the international environment have heard about MUNs, or Model United Nations. Yet somehow, despite them living in the EU itself, very few from that crowd are familiar with the Model European Union format. My name is Francesca, I'm the Director General of Model (...)
Thursday 3 January 2019
The Bologna process is an initiative aiming at getting the European university systems closer together. In 1998, 29 signatory countries took up the challenge to engage in a common agreement to get the different higher education systems in Europe closer together. Given the growth and enlargement (...)
Monday 31 December 2018
Christopher Glück, President of the Young European Federalists (JEF-Europe), has managed what many Europhile students are dreaming of: he has pursued a master's degree at the College of Europe. He now speaks with our German sister edition Treffpunkt Europa about his year at this prestigious institution.
Monday 3 December 2018
Contrary to the financial crisis, the crisis of the Schengen area, connecting 26 European states in a passport-free travel zone, has not led to further European integration and common responses, but rather brought about renationalisation and unilateral measures. Laura Schmeer gives an overview of the EU's "partly comatose" (Jean-Claude Juncker, 2015) flagship project's course of disease and its chances of survival.
Saturday 1 December 2018
Arnaud Boehmann spent one year living in China. For many Europeans, the Middle Kingdom that exists beyond dramatic reports and prejudice is still hard to grasp. What does daily life look like over there? What moves Chinese people? Arnaud shared his experience about living in China as a European in an interview with our German sister edition Treffpunkt Europa, and the interview is published in three parts. This first part introduces the differences between life in China and life in Europe.
Sunday 18 November 2018
This summer, I was fortunate enough to be one of 1,500 eighteen-year-old Europeans who won an Interrail pass in the #DiscoverEU competition, organised by the European Commission. Here is the story of my experience, my wonderful discoveries and my difficulties behind this impressive publicity (...)
Tuesday 6 November 2018
If you're studying political science, European or international affairs, communication or even European law, and you're not too keen on becoming a politician yourself, chances are you have considered a career in Brussels – the "European bubble." Being no exception, I too was fascinated by the (...)
Wednesday 24 October 2018


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Garvey Park is a major riverside reserve that contains significant areas of remnant foreshore vegetation and extensive revegetation areas.
To see the areas explained below, you can follow the self guided Garvey Park Nature Walk Trail. The walk follows limestone pathways and will take approximately 20- 30 minutes (2 kilometre distance).
In 2001 and 2002, a 500 metre linear stormwater drain was converted into a living stream by sculpting and battering the banks to create a gentler slope and increasing the area available for wetland habitat. 21,700 wetland and dryland trees, shrubs, sedges and rushes were subsequently planted in 2003.
Between 2004 and 2009, 4.6 hectares of floodplain was progressively revegetated, linking the Coolgardie Living Stream to Ayres Bushland to the south-west.
Carbon Neutral woodlands
Each year from 2005 to 2012, approximately 1,000 trees and 1,000 understorey plants were established as part of the Carbon Neutral Program. These trees sequester the equivalent amount of carbon generated by Council's light vehicle fleet in one year. Over 4 hectares was revegetated.
Foreshore Stabilisation
A foreshore stabilisation plan has been developed for Garvey Park, divided into Sections 1 - 4 and stretching from the Coolgardie Living Stream to Hilton Grove.
Works were completed at Section 1 (Hilton Grove) in 2011, Section 4 (near Coolgardie Living Stream) in 2012 and Section 3 (extending to the Ascot Kayak Club/ kiosk building) in 2016.
The City is currently in the design stage for the remaining area (Section 2).
Garvey Park Created Wetland
A wetland was created in 2004 near Tibradden Circle to capture stormwater from Tibradden Estate, improving water quality prior to it entering Coolgardie Living Stream and the river. The wetland provides important habitat for waterbirds and frogs.
Signal Hill is a small, (3.87 hectare) locally important area of remnant Banksia woodland within the City of Belmont, located on the corner of Belgravia Street and Alexander Road.
The bushland contains over 100 species of local, native plants including six varieties of orchids.
26 native bird species have been recorded, many of which are migratory such as the rainbow bee eater, which nests in underground burrows that are particularly susceptible to disturbance by dogs and cats.
The bushland was previously used as a signal station by the Department of Defence and Royal Australian Air Force.
To protect the bushland area, residents are asked not to:
The City of Belmont has 10 kilometres of picturesque Swan River foreshore, extending from Goodwood Parade boat ramp (near Orrong Road/ Balbuk Way) through Adachi and Hardey Parks, Ascot Waters and Garvey Park to Ivy Street.
Between 1998 - 2002 an extensive restoration project was undertaken from Goodwood Parade boat ramp to the Sandringham Hotel, utilising Natural Heritage Trust Funding to rehabilitate and restore 6.5 hectares of riverbank and remnant vegetation.
Restoration and stabilisation of the river foreshore is an ongoing process, with more recent works completed with the assistance of Swan River Trust Riverbank funding at:
Revegetation was also undertaken 2011, 2013 and 2014 at various foreshore locations with funding received through the State NRM Program- Community Grants and an Environmental Community Grant.
Tomato Lake is a seven hectare wetland located on Oats Street in Kewdale.
The lake receives stormwater from surrounding road verge drains and is part of the South Belmont Main Drain, which flows to Faulkner Park lakes, Severin Walk and then into the Swan River at Adachi Park. The lake is predominantly ground water fed, with a depth of over two metres in winter and less than a metre in summer.
Tomato Lake supports a wide variety of bird life, as well as other fauna including long necked-tortoises and frogs. Remnant vegetation exists in the bushland area near the end of Scenic Drive, as well as fringing the lake. An interpretive bushland walk called 'Jida Bidi' (small bird path in Noongar language) is located close to the boardwalk near the end of Scenic Drive.
City of Belmont 215 Wright Street, Cloverdale Western Australia 6105 Postal Address Locked Bag 379, Cloverdale WA 6985
Phone: (08) 9477 7222 Fax: (08) 9478 1473 Email:email@example.com
City of Belmont © 2014. Created by

subset: commoncrawl


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Pure Active by Valentina
Welcome to Pure Active by Valentina studio. A special place where you can practice , learn and relax. Come and have the teachers guide you in your preferred practice . Our teachers are a playful , fun and loving team to make sure , whether you are new to any workout or an advanced, you learn something every time .
Come and move your body
Whatever it is that gets you moving, chose your favourite and come work-out. We all know that a healthy lifestyle is not just about eating the right food, but as well moving your body. Contact us for further information or to book our class.


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Next » Anglo Arms 12g CO2 Gas
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Additional Information
Gas Type CO2 Contents 88g
- Description
Snug fitting and solid sealing for unbeatable performance
Anglo Arms CO2 cartridges provide consistent performance for any gas-powered air rifle. Perfect for paintball skirmishes and target shooting each Anglo Arms CO2 cartridge contains 88 grams of liquid gas. Safe and portable, sold as individual 200mm length, 35mm diameter cartridges with a M16 thread.
- Reviews


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The 2010 harvest in Rioja is set to begin. The latest buzz in the region is about the excellent condition of the grapes in the vineyards on the one hand and anticipation about the results of the Regulatory Council's decision to reduce yields of red grapes by 10%, which, together with an increase in sales of 16% in the first six months of 2010 and an increase of 6,5% in the last 12 months could bring supply in line with demand.
As I've explained in the past, the best indicator of the general 'health' of Rioja wine is the inventory to sales ratio. The ideal ratio is a level of inventory equivalent to between 2,8 and 3,2 years of sales. If it's lower than 2,8, there aren't enough grapes and wine to go around and prices rise, while if it's higher than 3,2 prices fall.
The ratio in 2009 was 3,54 and grape prices plummeted from an average of 80 euro cents to 55 euro cents (according to the Grupo Rioja) to 40-45 according to representatives of farmers' unions. One big winery in Haro paid 38 cents a kilo which was undoubtedly good for its balance sheet but extremely bad for customer (that is, grape farmer) relations.
In 2010, an increase of 8% in sales and a decrease in production to 260 million liters could bring the ratio back to 2,76 which in theory would mean higher grape and wine prices. I'm sure this is the argument that prevailed in the Regulatory Council (the measure passed with 175 votes out of 200). Will grape and wine prices return to their previous level? The farmers doubt it – they're planning a demonstration on September 11 – and so do I.
The plain and simple fact is that the average ex-cellars prices of Rioja have decreased steadily since 2000 and the wineries can't afford to pay an average of 80 euro cents for a kilogram of grapes when their margins are being squeezed by customers in Spain and abroad. The reason sales are beginning to increase is lower winery prices with more comfortable margins along with the weak euro with respect to the dollar (1,27 now compared with over 1,40 throughout 2009) that is helping sales to the USA.
A lot could happen before the end of the year. First of all, September is traditionally the 'make or break' month for a Rioja harvest. Warm, sunny days and cool nights are important. Early rain could make for a major quality problem. Secondly, the timid economic recovery in most of Europe and the USA could sour.
I remain optimistic, however. We always learn from our mistakes and a major one last year was squeezing the farmers too hard on price. Since wineries have no choice but to buy grapes and wine from farmers and coops in Rioja, long-term relationships take precedence over short-term economic considerations. Grumbling is a highly developed political art form in Rioja but wineries and farmers have no other alternative than to get along. Wait and see.


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With greater reserves than crude oil and lower pollutant emissions that any other hydrocarbon, natural gas is posted to take the world by storm. Yet such a failure is littered with obstacles. Sources of natural gas are further and further removed from centres of consumption. Costs of extraction and transport are spiralling upwards. Iranian and Russian political leveraging of natural gas has raised fears of future supply disruptions. Differing regulatory regimes and pricing systems have prevented the development of a unified global market for fuel.
This book focuses on the political economy of natural gas, constants on its future, consumption and the environmental consequences of its use. Chapter by chapter, readers learns about the properties of the fuel, the challenges of its transport, the different national regulatory and marketing regimes, the promises and perils of non-conventional natural gas and possible future new uses.


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29. März 2018
Zinc output climbs, but uncertainty disrupts processing talks
While talks remain deadlocked, mine output has been recovering.
Some 880,000 tonnes of additional capacity has been committed by zinc mines this year, about two-thirds of it from reopenings and expansions, the International Lead and Zinc Study Group (ILZSG) told the conference.
"It is definitely less tight than two years ago … but it takes time to recover and get back to normality," said Joao Jorge, director of market research and statistics at the ILZSG.
One of the biggest reopened mines is a tailings operation at the Century mine in Australia that was closed in 2015 but is due to restart output in the third quarter.
Bitte lesen Sie den kompletten Artikel unter dem folgenden Link: LINK


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So we're not telling you to not visit the Elk Ridge Bar & Grill. But we're also not going to neglect a great local recommendation when you need one. Continue reading
Book Club: 3 Sports Novels You Won't Be Able to Put Down
For this round of our Book Club, we're talking sports. We've got three novels here that deal with baseball, golf, and tennis, respectively. Get thee to a library!
Continue reading
Hot Springs and the Art of Mineral Soaking
We have access to such a wealth of resources here in Carson. Not only do we have our own spa, acres of land, and hot springs, but we feed that water right into our bath house. You reap the benefits! So we constantly receive questions about the effects of mineral soaking.
- "Will this help my pain?"
- "I'm super stressed. How can this help me?"
- "Will your bath house help with my husband's circulation issues?"
While we cannot guarantee anything, there are many possible benefits to spending some time soaking in hot mineral water. Continue reading
7 Surprising Facts About the Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River and its Gorge have a rich history. Whether we're talking the vegetation, the animal life, the culture, the community — there's something new to learn. Continue reading
Events You Can't Miss This Fall in the Columbia Gorge Area
We get that fall doesn't technically begin until September 22nd. But who doesn't like some good old autumn-themed festivities? Here are three events to plan for your September weekends. Continue reading
Book Club: What to Read Before the End of the Summer
Don't have the time to get to a regular book-club meeting? We've got you covered. We'll be recommending new reads for every season. This round, we present: five novels to get into before it gets chilly. You need to read these books with a cold one in your other hand — on the beach, at the pool, or in a lawn chair. Continue reading
Planning a Weekend Getaway This September
September is gaining on us. Can you believe it? Some kids will be starting back at school in just a few weeks! Back-to-school season brings stressful, hectic days, even for those not sending a child off to the bus every morning. Everyone deserves a little back-to-school getaway to make that transition smoother. Continue reading
Eating Through the Columbia River Gorge: River Rock
You won't go hungry when you visit Carson Hot Springs.
Whether you're taking your coffee up to your room, eating your way through our chef-designed menu at the on-site Elk Ridge Bar & Grill, or enjoying a picnic in the woods — you'll be comfortable. But maybe you do need a little night out. So we're featuring more restaurants around the Columbia Gorge. This round? We hit River Rock, located in Stevenson, WA, at 1131 SW Skamania Lodge Way. Continue reading
Hot Springs Across the U.S. for Your Bucket List
Hot springs in the United States are among the most spectacular natural phenomena. Our own hot springs in Carson, Washington, make for a relaxing retreat alongside our spa services and golf course, but what about those that are their own attraction? We've rounded up a list of some of the most beautiful American hot springs. Get out your bucket list. Continue reading
Finding Time to Care for Yourself, Too
We all lead busy lives.
We work one full-time job or even several jobs. We run households. We manage expenses and bills. We prioritize our loved ones and their needs. Without even realizing it, we're so often letting our own selves fall to the wayside. Continue reading


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Chucky Atkins is this week's guest on Tales from the Association
In Tales from the Association, Chris Horwedel hosts long-form conversations with former NBA players who walk us through their careers. In this show, we aim to provide the casual fan with a unique, behind-the-scenes look at not only why a player picks a certain school, or team (or leaves that team), but what the thought process of those decisions was.
With incredible inside information and the occasional fascinating story about a former teammate, Tales from the Association is a must-listen for any basketball fan.
If you enjoy the show, please consider visiting our great sponsors!
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I never let an opportunity go by without teaching them something. So, I thought I would share a 'teachable' moment with you and in hopes of you doing the same activity with someone in your life. What better way to teach your grandchild about the light and love of Jesus during the month of October than by using a pumpkin. I got this idea from Mary Whelchel, the founder of The Christian Working Woman.As we began to get the pumpkin ready, I told Gabby (who is 7 years old) that God picks us up, washes all the dirt off of us, opens us up and cleans us from the inside out just like we were cleaning up the pumpkin. He removes our yucky stuff like when we are angry at someone or jealous of what someone else has, pouting about what we don't have, holding a grudge, lying to someone or taking something that doesn't belong to us; maybe it's talking bad about someone…things like that. She said, "yeah, like when we talk back to our parents or have a bad attitude". "Ahhh, yes" I said "now you're getting it… just like with the pumpkin, we have to get rid of all the bad things that fill us up."
After we cleaned out the pumpkin, we carved a happy face. I told Gabby, "Just like when we bring all our problems to Jesus, he can help us to be joyful for who we are and all the blessings in our life."Then we were ready to put the light in the pumpkin – I explained to Gabby, "This is what happens when we ask Jesus to come into our heart. He puts a light in us so we can let our light shine for everyone to see."
She said, "Thanks Grandma. I can't wait to tell my friends about the light of Jesus".Do you allow God's light to shine through you regardless of situations in your life?
Matthew 5:14 You are the light of the world a city on a hill cannot be hidden.To download a copy of the pumpkin booklet please click here.


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Dear Dr. David,
My husband and I have only been married a few years, but already we are tired of the bickering and fighting that is pushing us apart. It seems that no matter what we talk about, we end up fighting. He attacks me and, I hate to say it, but I find myself attacking him back. We say hurtful things we don't mean, sometimes apologize, sometimes not, and then do it all over again. We love each other, but wonder if there any hope for us? ~ Tired of Fighting
Dear Tired,
I am so glad you have written. It means you are looking for answers, and thankfully, they are available. You are among the many couples who have failed to find constructive ways of avoiding conflict, and then mastering the skills to manage conflict when it occurs. The bad news is that if not dealt with, it will ruin your marriage. The good news is that there are skills you can learn, and master, which will utterly transform your marriage. I have written about these strategies and more in my book, The Relationship Doctor's Prescription for Healing a Hurting Relationship, and also offer Marriage Intensives for couples in significant distress.
So, let's get to work learning a few of these skills necessary to rid your marriage of this cancerous conflict.
First, it all begins with the heart. "Out of the heart the mouth speaks," the scriptures tell us. (Luke 6: 45) Therefore, it only makes sense to start with heart surgery. Both you and your husband need to do some soul searching. Are you holding onto resentments that need to be let go? Is there bitterness hidden in the deep recesses of your heart? These must be confessed and dealt with in a beneficial manner.
Second, having performed heart surgery, agree to follow biblical principles of communication. For example, the Apostle James admonishes us to guard our tongues, for they can set a forest ablaze. (James 3: 5) Agree to set boundaries on your speech, and then hold each other accountable to talk only in healthy ways. No name-calling, ever. No accusations, ever. No blaming, ever. Own your feelings and ask for what you need.
Third, practice solving problems. Healthy couples attack issues, not each other. They stay focused on one issue at a time. They stay cool and calm as they brainstorm win-win solutions to problems. They understand that together, being married, they are an organism, and that to attack their mates ideas and person is to be hurtful to themselves.
Fourth, get into some counseling. You need someone to help you learn to take time outs rather than letting issues escalate. Your counselor will help you understand the origins of your defensiveness, and how to manage the emotion in your marriage. Through counseling you can learn strategies to help you really listen to one another, validating each others perspective.
Finally, hold each other accountable for change. If you are intentional about changing these destructive patterns, you will succeed. You can even make learning these skills fun, and marriage-saving. My wife and I practice taking time outs when a discussion starts to turn toward a fight. If either of us violates the time out, the other must give the other a massage. We have learned to throw cold water on smoke--a much better strategy then managing the fire once the forest is ablaze.
Dear Dr. David,
I have been married to my second wife for about ten years and we are having so much conflict that we seem to be headed for a divorce. The problem is that my wife doesn't like the attention I pay to my two children from my first marriage. In fact, she wants me to quit spending so much time with them, and show her more attention. I only have visitation with them every other weekend, and feel a strong responsibility to be available to them. My own father was a distant man, and I don't want to be that for my kids. I want to be a strong influence on their development, but my wife seems to be jealous of the time I spend with them. I don't want to have to choose between them, but she seems to be forcing me to do just that. She has threatened that if things don't change, she is going to move out. What can I do to save my marriage while also being a good husband? ~ Confused Husband
Dear Confused,
I have heard stories like your many times, with the growing numbers of divorced people and blended families. With divorce hovering near the fifty percent rate, and most people likely to remarry, there are more and more blended families. I strongly counsel couples to get counseling before entering into such a relationship so they will be prepared for some of the trials you discuss. I have a few things for you to consider.
First, both you and your wife need counseling for your situation. Blended families, or what we used to call stepfamilies, have unique challenges not faced by other families. There are issues of loyalty, which you are facing. It is not uncommon for one spouse to feel left out when there are established relationships between the other parent and his or her children. It is also not uncommon for children to get caught in the fray of divided loyalties. They, too, are inclined to feel a stronger attachment to their biological parent, rather than their stepparent, further aggravating the situation.
Second, listen to your wife's needs. While there are ideal ways to handle blended family struggles, you must deal with your immediate crisis. Your boat is sinking, and you must find ways to bail water. Consider meeting your wife's immediate need for more attention, even if for the moment that means compromising on what you think is ideal for your children. If she needs extra time with you now, give it to her, with the understanding that you will need to find solutions that work for all of you in the future. Show her that even though you spend time with your children, she has a secure place in your heart.
Third, you must find ways to create a new family. Blended families are not inferior to bio-families—just different. You must sit down with your wife, and your children, and create new traditions. What will be your new identity? What is unique about you, as a family? This is your challenge. Help your wife to feel included in new plans and activities so there is not so much talk about the past.
Fourth, be intentional about creating quality time to avoid marital crises in the future. Assuming your wife feels jealous, this suggests she is missing something from you. Are you making time for just the two of you, carved out from undoubtedly busy schedules? Are you making sure that she does not feel displaced? Agree together to keep special time for the two of you in the midst of busy family life.
Finally, maintain a healthy relationship with your children. You are wise to recognize that your children need a strong relationship with you. They have already experienced a broken home and may be especially vulnerable. Just as you create special time with your wife, be intentional about creating special time with your children. Encourage your wife to participate in this time, while on occasion spending time alone with them. It is a balancing act that you can do.
Remember, you and your wife can learn how to face the inevitable challenges of blended families. As my high school coach used to say, "Adapt and overcome."
Do you need sound, Biblically-based advice on an issue in your marriage or family? Dr. David will address two questions from Crosswalk readers in each weekly column. Submit your question to him at firstname.lastname@example.com
David Hawkins, Pd.D., has worked with couples and families to improve the quality of their lives by resolving personal issues for the last 30 years. He is the author of over 18 books, including Love Lost: Living Beyond a Broken Marriage, Saying It So He'll Listen, and When Pleasing Others Is Hurting You. His newest books are titled The Relationship Doctor's Prescription for Healing a Hurting Relationship and The Relationship Doctor's Prescription for Living Beyond Guilt. Dr. Hawkins grew up in the beautiful Pacific Northwest and lives with his wife on the South Puget Sound where he enjoys sailing, biking, and skiing. He has active practices in two Washington cities.


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European Championship 2016 will be held the 18th June 2016 in Bolotana, Sardinia, Italy. With this article we like to show you some memories about past competition organized in this town from the Bike Club Bolotana, we wait Riders from all over Europe.
Come to Sardinia and enjoy the European BikeTrial Championship 2016 with us!
The sections:
All natural sections with big stone and rocks available, very similar to Catalan forest, with good greep and great jump. Here you can see some photo from the Italian Championship's round 2014 in Bolotana.
Italian Championship 2014 in Sardinia, the sections.
The organizer team
Francesco and Christian wait you in Bolotana, they work a lot to prepare for you a good competition. You are welcome here !
Francesco and Christian on work during the Italian Championship 2014.
A great team on work for you. Do not miss the European BikeTrial Championship 2016. The great organizer Team, Bike Club Bolotana A.S.D.
Bike Club Bolotana 2014. A great Team for a great Competition, the EBC 2016
Sardinia: great people, tradition and culture
Sardinia it's a very special land, with one or the most beautiful sea in the world, with long history and unique tradition. Come and enjoy this land during the European BikeTrial Championship 2016.
Italian BikeTrial Championship 2014: Award ceremony with Sardinian's traditional clothes
Italian BikeTrial Championship 2014, spectators
Contact your National BikeTrial Delegate or BikeTrial International Union to take part in the European BikeTrial Championship 2016


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Skyline of Houston viewed from Buffalo Bayou downstream. Photo by NW
Buffalo Bayou
Description: If you want to paddle through downtown Houston, you can't get more downtown than this! There's actually a nice landing area right next to the Brown Theatre, so paddle on in to the next performance. Buffalo Bayou in its dredged-out lower reaches is the Houston Ship Channel through Galveston Bay and into the Gulf of Mexico. It is navigable from the west-side city limits to the east-side, and what a contrast from start to finish. In the upper reaches it goes through some of the nicest backyards in Houston's River Oaks area. It's hard to believe you are within the city limits as you're looking at the huge trees on both sides of the bayou, and even a few spots of Class I+ whitewater if the water level is right.
Directions: There are many put-ins and takeouts for Buffalo Bayou. The Buffalo Bayou Regatta puts in at San Felipe Road just west of its intersection with Voss Road. This is west of the West 610 loop around Houston. Alternate putins are at Highway 6 and Wilcrest. This stretch of the bayou is also the most natural and scenic. The takeout is in Memorial Park, look for a dirt road heading south from Woodway Drive just before the bayou meets the road - or drag your canoe up the banks to any of the parking areas in the park. Remember of course, this is an urban area, and there are plenty of urban animals out there who could cause you grief. Take your valuable possessions with you - or leave them at home - and be sure your car is locked.
If you really want a view of the inner Houston from the water, put in at Memorial Park, and paddle on into downtown to takeout at Allen's Landing Park where Main Street crosses the Bayou, or to the Sabine Street bridge. You will probably get to see a closeup view of street people, the above mentioned landing in the theatre district, the underside of the Gulf Freeway. Hey, you have to do it at least once if you live in Houston.
Solo canoe dwarfed by merchant ship at dock. Photo by NW
From Allen's Landing Park, you are upstream of where the "improved" bayou becomes the Houston Ship Channel. You can broaden your Houston experience by looking for putins further downstream and paddling along with the oceangoing tankers and cargo carriers through the Turning Basin and Ship Channel, but this can be very DANGEROUS (stay well away from any activity on the water!) and can't be recommended for natural beauty. Post 9/11 this area is off limits to recreational boaters. Check with your local Coast Guard representative to be certain of closed or open areas.
Much farther downstream (east of the 610 East Loop, East of Beltway 8) Highway 134 (Battleground Road) cuts between the Battleship Texas State Park, and San Jacinto Monument Park. There are some easy putin places within the San Jacinto Monument Park (follow the circle around the monument, then follow the road opposite where you entered the circle, down to the water). You can paddle around the bays there, even up and around the Battleship. At the right seasons, there are large flocks of white pelicans and roseate spoonbills in the water right next to the park. Battleship Park has nice viewing areas if you want to sit and watch traffic moving by on the ship channel, and both it and the Monument park have nice picnic areas. You can also take a free ferry ride at the Lynchburg Crossing where 134 meets the water.
A natural stretch of Buffalo Bayou, downstream of downtown. Photo by John Somers
The Buffalo Bayou Partnership Web site has a nice map of canoe/kayak launches inside the 610 loop. You can see the map at: http://www.buffalobayou.org/pdf/Canoekayak_postcard.pdf
Another guide to Buffalo Bayou is published by the Bayou Preservation Association. Go to this Web site: http://www.bayoupreservation.org/projwateraccess.html and click on "Buffalo Bayou".


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Rebecca Duvall (Uma Thurman) "the star" didn't show up until the last five minuets of the episode which was fine by me. Last night's episode proved, what we all know is going to happen. Our rag-tag troupe is best when left alone, we don't need no stinkin' stars.
Tom (Christian Borle) owned the episode last night, no surprise here, he was nominated for a Tony for his role in Legally Blonde: The Musical and has appeared on Broadway numerous times. Between his musical number and banter with Sam ( his future BF) Christian was pitch perfect, more Tom please.
Ivy, fresh from being fired from Heaven on Earth and Bombshell (formerly Marilyn) is plotting her way back in. She meets the gang for drinks, congratulating Karen on being named Rebecca's understudy by buying her sunglasses like the ones Marilyn wore in Niagara. She even advises Derek to be nice to Karen, telling him that the directors that got the best performances out of Marilyn were the ones who babyed her. This leads Derek to some weird hallucination, I am not sure where it came from, but Kat McPhee's Marilyn was spot on during that sequence.
As usual Eileen is trying to raise the money, now that she has Rebecca she has the investor's, but they have some crazy demands and it totally bums Eileen out. She heads out to her dive bar, has a Martini and tells her bartender boytoy whats up. He offers her money, but its not enough so she hooks him up with some rocker dude who has a ton of cash and doesn't care about losing it. She fires the old investors, but not Ellis. If I was Anjelica Houston I would tell the producers that is is not believable that her character would have fired him three episodes ago.
Other random happenings, Julia tries to reconcile with her X, she makes her son a grilled cheese sandwich to make amends for ruining his life. I hope that was Jarlsberg from Dean and De Luca and not some Kraft singles processed cheese in that sandwich. Tom and Julia celebrate ten years of working together by going to see a performance of their first big hit, Three on a Match. Debra Messing is the weakest link on this show, her character is the worst. Hopefully this will all change now that Theresa Rebeck is gone, apparently the character was based on her life.
Dev hits Derek for visiting Karen, and then he asks Karen if she would quit the show to go with him if he got a job in another city. We all know Karen picks the show, so say good-bye to Dev. Too bad because he is damn hot with his shirt off. How much longer do we think Derek and Ivy will be together if Karen is single?
Fun fact, did you know that Jack Davenport (Derek) and Debra Messing (Julia) starred in The Wedding Date. Wonder if she got him the job on Smash.
Rebecca finally shows up, and based on the previews it isn't going to go well at all. She has never done Broadway, and is completely wrong for the part so all heck is going to break loose.
Next week


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Yes, it would be nice if we could draw perfect perspective like some artists out there... not to name any names but two instructors at the 2nd international Urban Sketchers Symposium certainly know what they are on about - see here and here ... yes, it is something that all artists 'should' understand. But I would strongly urge everyone not to be put off drawing architecture because of 'perspective'.
For many years I have avoided drawing buildings in perspective...
in Paris, I tried whenever possible to sit straight on to a building and add people in the foreground to give a sense of space - or if not in a central position I avoided a 2 point perspective as much as possible.
Last year in Portland, on my extra day after the Ist USk Symposium I was itching to do a nice complicated building.... I sat in a cafe and sketched the Dekum buidling. This was not actually the view that I was looking at but an abstracted elevation (front on view) from what I could see. This is a very useful architectural exercise(converting what I see into what it actually is- reverse perspective at the top of the building) and I drew some people in the foreground to explain the fact that I was in a cafe. I was pretty happy with this sketch
Later that day, at dinner, I saw Gerard Michel's wonderful version of the same building! He was sitting on the pavement and actually drew what he saw...suddenly I felt like I had 'cheated'. Silly thought but still seeing perfect perspective has funny effects on people.
So, inspired by the work of Gerard and also Lapin, as I continued on my travels I tried more and more adventurous perspective views. In New York I tried one of this one point facade perspectives and found this was in fact easier than I expected and a LOT of fun!!!
On other occasions I just did what ever my hand and pen wanted to do...
In Bologna... I started our visit doing the classic elevation with some foreground
And then later in the day had fun with 'organic' perspective... my term for when I just do what ever I feel like without establishing a horizon and vanishing point/s
And then the next day I set up a proper perspective.... this was very satisfying. (Having my great friend Eza by my side had a big influence on me as she loves drawing everything in perspective)
So anyway... I haven't really answered the question but just rambled away in my usual way... but I do intend to address this burning issue in more detail and in a more structured way in future posts
This blog is devoted to my architectural sketching adventures and musings about the integration of architecture and sketching.
I hope not only to share my own on-location architectural sketches but provide tips and methodologies for sketching and understanding architecture.
Also, most importantly, I wish to explore ways in which, in a digital age, we can not only defend but
promote freehand sketching within the architectural profession.
I hope not only to share my own on-location architectural sketches but provide tips and methodologies for sketching and understanding architecture.
Also, most importantly, I wish to explore ways in which, in a digital age, we can not only defend but
promote freehand sketching within the architectural profession.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Do you need perfect perspective to draw architecture?
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This present project and my last CD, the three sonatas, could hardly be more contrasted. The sonatas were large scale works, No. 8 lasting almost an hour, whereas Entangled States is comprised of 48 short pieces. 12 are in Middle Order and High Order format. Two realisations of each of these is planned. There are 24 Low Order pieces. If you require clarification regarding my non-prescriptive techniques please go to the introduction to the blog where you will find an explanation.
Why short pieces? Over the years I have gained an increasing respect, tantamount to awe, when, by reading science, I stumble upon simple, elegant mathematical equations which are the distillations of so much innovative thinking and experimentation by hugely intelligent scientists and mathematicians. Some of these are pinned upon my studio door – Einstein, Dirac, Euler, Mandelbrot. I always find them to be quite inspirational.
For quite some time, years, I have had an idea percolating that I might attempt in my own field to emulate this process of distillation however badly. And again, as you saw in my last post, you might recognise links between my interest in science and music. Cosmology with large scale sonatas, quantum science with very short pieces, most lasting barely 2 minutes.
I have previously written many short pieces, most of them having been given away or carelessly lost, misplaced, but never have I written so many, so exclusively with such intensity and focus, and with such a strict self-imposed discipline. Each piece must of necessity be concise. Every note, every phrase must be there for a purpose. An immediacy has to be established. There has to be a clarity of ideas and a clarity of the expression of those ideas. There is an intriguing creative self-imposed limitation in the presentation, a sparseness, almost a brutality in these acts of reductivism. Writing the short pieces ultimately became the art of omission. This is quite the opposite of enjoying the luxury of being able to develop, to discuss and evolve ideas at great length as I did in the sonatas. More than anything I relish the opportunity of being able to extend an initial motif, seeing where this takes me, how many different facets of its character I can discover, giving it the time to reveal its secrets to me.
Also pinned to my laboratory door is a quote from a book entitled "Quantum – A Guide for the Perplexed" by Jim Khalili. He states "The quest for the ultimate truths is always a quest for beauty and simplicity" I agree so completely with that, Jim, and that statement in itself is an example of complexity of thought simply and beautifully expressed.
Unlike "Set for Piano" which was structured tonally, there being a slow graduation from Low Order (predominantly tonal) to High Order (atonal) formats, I have decided not to present the 48 short pieces in any predetermined specific sequence. This ordering becomes one of the responsibilities of the performer. Bear in mind that one of the principles of my non-prescriptive philosophy is to reduce the presence of the composer as one who fixes the parameters. Another is to abnegate, relinquish ownership of the scores once these are in the possession of the performer
The collisions, the juxtapositions, the resulting kaleidoscope made by the contrasting pieces is intended to set up tensions and dynamics when heard in the context of the overall performance. To what extent this will occur is a variable, being totally dependent on both the ordering of the scores by the performer and the manner in which the realisations are articulated.
A date for the recording has been set but more of this in my next post.


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How to Increase Your Resilience as a Leader
Working longer hours and putting more pressure on yourself can hinder productivity. Instead, focus on these ways to increase your resilience. (More)
Who do you blame for work stress, your smartphone or your organization?
As we saw on NBC news on Tuesday, some organizations have initiatives to give people time away from work by telling them to turn off their cell phones. Organizations are (More)
5 Tips for Making Your Organization More Resilient
This article was originally posted on Nicholas Petrie's blog. See it here. I am getting a lot of interesting requests from people who have read my new resilience whitepaper. The latest (More)
Corporate Officer: A Job that Kills?
The well-paid world of corporate officers is ruthlessly transparent, and the rules of the game are clear: deliver and you will be rewarded; fail and you will be blamed. After (More)


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Welcome to a great resource for all things on Dowsing & Pyramids
- Due to Site Maintenance
We are temporarily Unavailable -
We apologize for the disruption, our shopping cart is
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Check out our video clip from Discover Dowsing on the Dowsing FAQ page.
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The Yden juicer extracts high quality and clear juice from any kind of ingredient. The juice is smooth and clear thanks to the gentle squeezing process and pulp control. Thanks to the Twin Gear Slow Juicing system you can enjoy the maximum possible juice yield from these ingredients without losing those precious nutrients that are healthy for your body.
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When I first started my 5K training in May I said I'd run the Turkey Trot this year. Ended up that I ran the Oak Scare 5K thru our Y on October 30, first. I totally forgot about the Turkey Trot until I heard someone talking about it. I rushed onto the Internet to find the local race and I got in.
It seems that every morning I get up to run (which is not often) I usually don't want to get up. I wasn't even feeling 100% but I had 3 other people who I convinced to run with me so I couldn't bag out. On top of that, it was in the low 30s. Have I said I'm not a cold weather person?
I grew up in Texas and it rarely gets below 30 and when it does you don't leave the house. It's pretty easy to do that as the next day usually goes back up to 70, but not in MA. I think it was 32 when we left the house. I was layered, but we literally had to go back to the car once we got our numbers to warm up–our hands and other extremities. I'm glad we had time to do that because it would have been a REALLY long race if we hadn't.
I am happy to report that not only did the race start on time, we started early (the Oak Scare started 15 minutes late as most of us were standing there freezing and our muscles continuing to get cold–not good for runners). This course was "flat and fast" as they said. I never really get when a road is described as "flat." What the hell are they talking about? There were no major hills on this course, but there were a couple hills. In fact, as soon as we rounded the first corner there was the hill–liars.
The race was in my neighborhood-ish area so I knew a lot of the course. I took advantage of knowing the Washington Street hill as we had that as a downhill. Thank you Boston Volvo (they sponsored the race). I knew exactly where I could pick up my pace and when I needed to hold off. Fairly cool. Ironically it was the exact opposite way we ran for the Oak Scare. But either way, it's great to know a lot of your town and the roads in it.
I ran with 3 friends and one new one. I'm finding it's a lot more fun running with people you know, even if you don't stay together. As I told my group, I definitely would be the last of our group coming in (and I was), but that didn't matter. In fact, I got a bit of a cheering section as I ran towards the finish line.
I'm happy to report that I took almost a minute off my run time from October and went from a 11:25 to a 11:05 pace. Granted, there was no big hill today, but I'll take that as a confidence booster 🙂
I like this running thing. If you asked me a year ago if I'd be running 5Ks at the end of this year I would have asked you what you were smokin'. It's a great feeling and a cool thing knowing that I'm 40 and took on something like this later in life.
Me proud.


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The Affordable Care Act is bringing about considerable reductions in health care expenses for millions of Americans. Republicans opposing health care reform have tried to undermine support for the law with a series of false ads in which they falsely claim people such as cancer patients have to pay more than in the past for health care coverage. Whenever these claims are actually examined, it has turned out that the claims are false. Considering the subsidies for coverage, the increased protections for those with medical problems, the elimination of limitations on coverage, and the caps on out of pocket expenses, it is generally not possible for anyone to really come out behind who had previously been purchasing coverage on the individual market. The only "losers" are those of us who don't qualify for subsidies and are healthy enough to not have significant health care costs. Even the "losers" under the Affordable Care Act, who are affluent enough to pay the higher premiums for better coverage, will come out ahead if we develop major medical problems.
The case of Julie Boonstra was already covered when newspapers and fact checkers revealed that the ad, paid for by the Koch brothers, was spreading incorrect information. Previous reports revealed that her claims of paying more were untrue. As more information has become available on her policy, the facts show that she benefits even more than initially reported. The Detroit News has updated the facts on this case with this information:
A Dexter cancer patient featured in a conservative group's TV ad campaign denouncing her new health care coverage as "unaffordable" will save more than $1,000 this year.
Julie Boonstra, 49, starred last month in an emotional television ad sponsored by Americans for Prosperity that implied Democratic U.S. Rep. Gary Peters' vote for the Affordable Care Act made her medication so "unaffordable" she could die. Peters of Bloomfield Township is running for an open U.S. Senate seat against Republican Terri Lynn Land.
The Detroit News and fact checkers last month cast doubt on the accuracy of the TV ad. On Monday, Boonstra acknowledged which health plan she chose, offering the first evidence of cost savings..
Boonstra said Monday her new plan she dislikes is the Blue Cross Premier Gold health care plan, which caps patient responsibility for out-of-pocket costs at $5,100 a year, lower than the federal law's maximum of $6,350 a year. It means the new plan will save her at least $1,200 compared with her former insurance plan she preferred that was ended under Obamacare's coverage requirements.
Glenn Kessler reevaluated his report on this ad writing, "one cannot claim that a plan is 'unaffordable' when over the course of the year it will provide you with substantial savings. Thus we are changing the rating on this ad from Two Pinocchios to Three Pinocchios."
Boonstra, and others claiming to be losers under Obamacare, might very well believe what they are saying, even if wrong:
When advised of the details of her Blues' plan, Boonstra said the idea that it would be cheaper "can't be true."
"I personally do not believe that," Boonstra said.
Many people are harmed by the deliberate misinformation being spread by the right wing, including many who are now failing to sign up and take advantage of the benefits under the Affordable Care Act. Many of these dishonest ads are funded by the Koch brothers through Americans for Prosperity (a poorly named organization for one pursuing an agenda which would impoverish the middle class and turn the United States into a banana republic).
The New York Times has been reporting on how the Democrats are staring to stand up to the Koch brothers for their misinformation on health care and other actions to rig the system to benefit a small oligarchy. They summarized this in an op-ed today:
Democrats have for too long been passive in the face of the vast amounts of corporate money, most of it secret, that are being spent to evict them from office and dismantle their policies. By far the largest voice in many of this year's political races, for example, has been that of the Koch brothers, who have spent tens of millions of dollars peddling phony stories about the impact of health care reform, all in order to put Republicans in control of the Senate after the November elections.
Now Democrats are starting to fight back, deciding they should at least try to counter the tycoons with some low-cost speech of their own. Democrats may never have the same resources at their disposal — no party should — but they can use their political pulpits to stand up for a few basic principles, including the importance of widespread health-insurance coverage, environmental protection and safety-net programs.
The leader of this effort has been Senator Harry Reid, the majority leader, who has delivered a series of blistering attacks against the Kochs and their ads on the Senate floor over the last few weeks. In addition, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has set up a website, www.kochaddiction.com, to remind voters of just what the Kochs stand for, and why they raised $407 million in the 2012 election. And individual candidates are making sure voters know who is paying for the ad blitz.
"The billionaire Koch brothers," says one of the people quoted in an ad released Monday by Senator Mark Begich of Alaska, who has been the object of one of their blatantly false television barrages. "They come into our town, fire a refinery, just running it into the ground, leaving a mess." Senator Kay Hagan of North Carolina reminds voters that the Kochs and their allies have pressed for high-end tax breaks that burden the middle class.
Mr. Reid's comments have gone to the heart of the matter. In his most recent speech, he pointed out that the fundamental purpose of the Kochs' spending is to rig the economic system for their benefit and for that of other oligarchs. They own an industrial network that ranks No. 14 on the list of the most toxic American air polluters, and got their money's worth in 2010 by helping elect a Republican House majority that has resisted environmental regulation…
Cross posted at The Moderate Voice


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July 4 2019 The secret ingredient of a successful franchisee
By Aaron Smith, KX Pilates founder Many in the franchising industry believe that you shouldn't recruit franchisees with zero business experience. Here's why I think business experience matters less than you think. There's a standard list in franchising that outlines what traits potential franchisees should have and 'past business experience' or 'business acumen' is often Read More…
May 21 2019 Making teamwork work
Team days often have a poor reputation and, because it is so hard to get it right, allocating time and effort to team effectiveness is often avoided or simply cut from the budget. So how do we make teamwork, work? According to the 2019 Human Synergistics International Research report, teams that work in a constructive Read More…
April 17 2019 6 tips for building millions in revenue
Former HR Manager, James Trenerry turned a $40,000 debt into a successful KX Pilates franchise enterprise, generating a revenue stream of $2.5 million. Here are his tips for business success. Define your vision A clear vision and strategy is essential to reach your goal This sets the tone for your business direction, objectives, and Read More…
April 1 2019 The four leadership "blind spots"
A recent Dale Carnegie survey of over 3,300 employees has identified four leadership "blind spots" – the aspects of leading that are currently not being considered, acknowledged or even seen as existing in the first place. When these "hidden" leadership qualities are addressed and properly carried out in the workplace the overall job satisfaction of Read More…
March 25 2019 How three small Victoria brands grew from social media
More and more small businesses are growing their brands using online platforms and building presence, following and revenue. The power of social media was something not missed by these three small businesses in Victoria, who have been capitalising on the commercial opportunities that Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and other social media platforms provide. Bendigo Brittle, Peggy Read More…
March 22 2019 Best employee benefits to retain your workforce
Employee benefits, when implemented properly, are among the most effective ways to motivate staff and bring out the best in your people. Staff will eventually leave if they're not valued or treated fairly. Companies that want to invest in their workers can use perks, such as flexible working arrangements and salary packaging, to show recognition Read More…
March 22 2019 The 5 Step Plan to a Winning Social Media Presence
Every business wants to increase their enquiries and get more clients. The wonderful news for you is that you can use social media in order to build your pipeline. We can no longer ignore the fact that social media is a crucial element and that when used strategically, it can connect us with our potential Read More…
March 4 2019 Boring brochure-ware or lead generation powerhouse? Optimising your web site will drive customer engagement and demand
More often than not, your web site is the first form of contact prospects will have with your business, so are you putting your best face forward? For some businesses, they're powerful assets while for others they're little more than a stake in the electronic sod. Having one of the latter variety can be a Read More…
October 29 2018 Don't be afraid to shake things up
Don't keep doing the same thing and expect a different result.
August 2 2018 Why Coles needs to look at its authenticity to save face
Where did Coles go wrong?
July 18 2018 Staying true to the core
There is a special ingredient when it comes to small business success and leveraging this 'special ingredient' can make all of the difference to the ultimate triumph of the company you worked so hard to build. What is this 'special ingredient' you ask? Simple: It's being small. Small enough that you can cherish your customers Read More…
May 17 2018 Are you solving your most valuable problems?
Businesses are under incredible pressure from constant deadlines and the need to deliver short-term results. Business leaders want immediate outcomes, which creates a culture of 'doing'. So, when a problem arises, we quickly jump to solution finding, without isolating what the real problem is. If we don't take the time to dig deep, observe and Read More…
May 8 2018 How The disruptive Uber Business Model Is Changing the Way Business Owners Think
"Uber changed the way business owners think and work in more ways than are instantly noticeable," says Maria Bellissimo-Magrin, CEO of creative marketing agency Belgrin. Here she examines what business owners can learn from Uber's actions. Launched in San Francisco in 2010, Uber quickly became one of the world's most valued tech companies and widely-known brands and their Read More…
May 3 2018 How to compete with the big guys when attracting talent to your small business
Attracting the right talent to your small business can be an uphill battle and as challenging to a business owner as any other macro force. Not only are you competing with players in your own sector, you've also got the big guys to contend with. You know the ones, big staffing budget, big, shiny training Read More…
April 24 2018 Four ways to fix a pricing mistake
In my previous article, Oops… my business made a pricing mistake, I outlined pricing mistakes businesses commonly make. Knowing the mistakes should help you identify and avoid making the same mistakes but what do you do after you discover you've made on? Fix 1 – Know your target customer or customers A really useful strategy in Read More…


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Six Month New Construction Bills - Real Property
The tax year begins July 1st of each year and ends June 30th of the next year. If you completed construction of a new house or another improvement by the end of December in that fiscal year, the new improvement is taxed for the last half of the billing year, January 1st to June 30th. Six month new construction bills are due by March 31st.


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On Your CalendarSave the date.
CeTEAL: Office365: Skype for Business
9 a.m. @ KRNS 210
Did you know that you have access to Skype for Business through your CCU Office365 account? Skype for Business is an audio and video web conferencing platform. With this tool, you may schedule a meeting in advance or start one at your chosen time and even record the conference for later use. Skype for Business allows for audience polling and instant messaging during meetings. You may find the built-in desktop sharing feature useful as well. Consider attending this session to learn how Skype for Business can enhance your teaching and learning process.
Participants will:
--download Skype
--learn how to use Skype for virtual office hours and mini lessons
--determine ways to integrate Skype into the teaching and learning process
Contact CeTEAL for additional information


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Kim's Blog.
Well I am happy to share exciting news, I have two more books coming out with Second Wind! In search of Justice and another book in the River's Foundation Series called, Cards of Justice.
In Search of Justice tells the tale of Alec Maleet. A scientist looking into a video game. The kids who play the game are getting into serious trouble with the law and Alec must find out why. The games are linked to at least two other deaths and Alec is being framed for his wife's death. He needs to elude the police and a hit man in order to finish his research on the game.
In Cards of Justice, Aaron Rivers and his pregnant wife Karen must track down a serial killer after the killer contacts Karen. He wants her to tell the world his story but after his first murder she can't. He killed the man before the proof could be left.
When the killer takes the life of someone closer to Karen she knows he'll never let her live. She decides to go after him anyway she can to stop him. Their journey starts in Washington DC and goes all the way back to its beginning in New York City.
I'm not really sure of the release days yet but I know it will be soon. Cards of Justice is book two in the series of five books. The other books will continue the stories of the Rivers brothers in A Murder in Her Past, the brothers include, Briar, Cade, Aaron, Elliot and Quinn. I can't wait to write the other three books in the series.


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(Itiriti: I invited Madhurilata to write about Blue Poppy, one of my latest hanging out places in City of Joy. Madhurilata Basu is a student of Political Science and is an independent researcher. She loves to travel and enjoys her food. She takes you on a guided tour into the indoors of Blue Poppy.)
What is the shortest way to someone's heart? While you keep on guessing, I would give my answer. It is always good food. But in today's world good food comes with a big price and it becomes a rare occasion, when one can experience the unadulterated joy of having good food at a good price. But courtesy Blue Poppy, the exception has been changed into the norm. Embracing students, young professionals with their wide range of dishes and reasonably priced menu, it is located in Sikkim House in Middleton Street, near Loretto College and Gorkha Bhavan in Salt Lake, near City Centre I. Young Calcuttans are lucky to have a place which serves Nepali, Bhutanese, Tibetan, Indian and Chinese cuisines under one roof and that too at a great price.
You can start off your gastronomical journey with Momos and if you are health conscious , you can also opt for the wide range of soups they offer. You can safely order Mixed Thenthuk or Mixed Phaktu. These Tibetan delights are homemade noodles served in a hot mixed soup. However, my personal favourite is Pork Kothay , which is half steamed and half fried Momos. Do not forget to ask them for their famous chilly chutney, which should only be tried by the brave hearts for it is a sure killer. Instead of treading in one direction, my suggestion will be to have a mixed menu. A must have dish is Ema Dasi, that is cheese with chilly, and you can have it with steamed rice. This Bhutanese dish can be followed up with Pork Shapta (a Tibetan dish) or Pork with vegetables. The Nepali Thali is also worth trying.
One thing that is guaranteed is that Blue Poppy will definitely bring a smile to your face. A not-so-posh eating house but packed with young people is sure to make you smile. Blue Poppy opens at 8 am and also serve breakfast like Egg and Toast or Puri Bhaji, for the boarders at both the Sikkim House and Gorkha Bhavan have breakfast there. Another good news is that owing to its popularity, it has started home delivery services in Salt lake only. However, in order to have the good food in your home, you have to wait till 5 pm.
College students flock the Blue Poppy in Middleton Street in great numbers. Owing to its proximity to City Centre I, where youngsters, in the absence of proper adda places in the region, have addas, for obvious reasons come to Blue Poppy to satisfy their hunger if they have extra cash in their pockets. The staff of Blue Poppy are friendly and their service is satisfactory. Do not be amazed if you find a long line outside. Just be patient, for it takes really less time for the good food to get over and before you can count till ten, it will be your turn to grab a table. A meal for two can cost at around Rs 400. However, Blue Poppy's food tastes best, provided you have a good company. Non-stop adda over the food is of course, free.
For menu of Blue Poppy
http://www.zomato.com/kolkata/the-blue-poppy-russel-street/menu; Accessed on 14 February 2013


text: Meme Rhee brings to Launch Centers a vast array of experience and training. A first-generation Korean American, born in Virginia, Meme's early beginnings as a Martial Artist naturally inspired her interest and studies in Somatic Psychology which intimately examines the relationship between mind and body. She received a B.A. from the University of Virginia, an M.A. in Somatic Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies, and a Psy. D. in Psychoanalysis from the Psychoanalytic Center of California. Her extensive clinical training at Haight Ashbury Psychological Services, BHC Alhambra Psychiatric Hospital, Clearview and Evolve Treatment Centers deepened and expanded her experience in treating many different populations. Amidst her studies and along life's journey, Meme was Martial Arts competitor, an English teacher in rural China, a Rotary Scholar of Japanese literature at Tokyo University, a work-study participant at the Center for Immigration Policy and Refugee Assistance in Beijing, and a corporate executive with Bigfoot Ventures – a top-tier venture capitalist firm. Her colorful, eclectic, and sometimes challenging life journey led her to discover her deeper purpose to help others find understanding, meaning, and freedom.


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Ruched-Sleeve Button Down Tunic
Woman Within
Additional Information
Item Number:
Please Select Color & Size
A classic button down shirt that's ready for warmer weather. Made in a light and airy cotton gauze, this relaxed-fit tunic is accented with ruching and adjustable ties on the ends of the three-quarter sleeves.
- 30" tunic length
- Pure cotton, imported
- Machine washable


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Survey says, original content is queen -Vahni of Grit and Glamour surveyed her readers to find out what content they liked the most, and original content won out.
If you're the kind of person who takes outfit photos, then you might appreciate this: 7 steps to posing naturally in photos
New Zealand Fashion Week highlights from Gala Gonzalaz; I'm still buzzing about some of the pieces that were sent down the runway.
Grover from Sesame Street spoofs the Old Spice guy. It's cute!
This tumblr is a nostalgic-wonderland. I'm Remembering.
This is a very thoughtful response to the 'sexy'-photos of Glee cast members, Finn, Quinn and Rachel, for GQ magazine.
There's no question that these photos play on the dynamics among characters on the show. But if that's the case, what do these particular photos say? They say, "Sure, these girls are sexy, but you know what would be really sexy? If they were dumber. If they were weaker. If they were more desperate.
If you haven't seen the photos yet, you can look at them here. What do you think?
This is a great interview with the CEO of Modcloth, Susan Gregg Koger. Modcloth always impresses me with their social initiatives and interaction with their customers.
How to pet a kitty. It's by the Oatmeal, so you know it's going to be good!
I'm looking forward to The Influencers.
INFLUENCERS TRAILER from R+I creative on Vimeo.
Uni classes and assignments are officially over for the year, I'm so relieved I made it through the assignments and projects. 3 exams to go and I'll be a graduating… Plans for next year are still pending. To celebrate, the social committee and I had organised a cocktail party at Honey Bar – we had about 50 people and considering the amount of drinks in hand I'd say they had a good time!
Regular posting will resume on Monday/Tuesday!


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Dealing With Your Reputation: Tips And Tricks
If you wish to have a business that does well, you need to be sure you figure out what to do to keep a business image that's professional. Your reputation can make or break your business. Keep reading to figure out how to manage your company's reputation to stay away from mistakes.
The best defense for negative content with regard to your brand on the Internet is to have a good offense. The more positive chatter there is, the less noticeable the negative will be. Make sure you update with positive feedback regularly as well.
To better your business reputation online, try optimizing your web pages with your essential search phrase. It starts with the name of your company. A majority of search engines will favor authoritativeness. When your business is seen as an authority, then search engines like Google will bump you to a higher standing in the results.
Keep an eye on social networks. Most people expect a company to respond when they leave negative comments. Therefore, make sure to monitor the comments about your business. You can stand out from your competition since many businesses won't be quite as vigilant.
Take the time to know what is happening in the business world. This helps ensure you can supply your customers with the latest innovations and information. Take five minutes out of your day to search for the newest facts about the industry you're in.
Keep a close eye on how you are perceived on the Internet. A displeased customer may talk about you online, and you can see this through a search engine result. Monitoring search results yourself will help keep you on top of the situation and thus able to put out little fires as they pop up. Try doing this a couple of times each month.
Run your social media campaigns and websites professionally. Such pages demonstrate your business character, so you need to make sure they always show positivity. Act like a human, but do not get too personal.
If you own a business, treat your employees respectfully. Some businesses don't do this, and it hurts their business. If it gets around that you are not a great employer, many people will refuse to do any business with you.
If you are holding a private promotion or sale, don't make it public. If a consumer has made a complaint against your business, you want to keep the details of what you offered to the consumer private. You don't want to have an influx of complaints from people that are only trying to get free products or services.
Continually monitor social networks. People often talk about companies on these platforms. You can fix the negative situations more quickly if you notice them as they arise. You can really help your business maintain a strong reputation in this way.
You will see the image your business suffer if your business makes a serious mistake. This article has been teaching you how to prevent negative situations, and the proper way to deal with them when they occur. Put all of what you learned into practice.…


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Funny man Kevin Smith is known for his "bro" comedy movies filled with fart jokes and comic book references, but he proved with Red State that he can write serious films too. Tusk combines his knack for comedy with the more serious side of Smith. Adding a talent like Justin Long (Jeepers Creepers), Michael Parks (Red State) and Haley Joel Osment (The Sixth Sense) to Smith's writing genius made this film a true contender for best horror film of 2014.
Tusk opens like most of Kevin Smith's other films with some raunchy banter between two guy friends. This time instead of the Quick Stop we get a podcast called Not-See Party (not to be confused with Nazi Party) ran by Wallace Bryton (Long) and Teddy Craft (Osment). The podcast is much like Smith's very own "Smodcast". The dialogue between Wallace and Teddy is insanely funny and a lot like the conversations between Dante and Randal in the Clerks films.
Smith is known for the cameos in his films. This one was chalk full of those. The first cameo by Harley Morenstein (Epic Meal Time) who plays a border patrol officer in the airport. I laughed the entire time he was on the screen. The dialogue between him and Justin Long was by far some of the funniest lines in any comedy. The next cameo was by Smith's own wife, Jennifer Schwalbach (Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back) as a waitress. To go along with the Clerks theme, Harley Quinn Smith (Kevin Smith's daughter) and Lily-Rose Melody Depp (Johnny Depp's daughter) both appeared as clerks at a Canadian version of the Quick Stop, Eh-2-Zed. Both girls were amazing, they were funny and sweet, but can give some real attitude.
Lily-Rose was not the only Depp to make an appearance, her father, Johnny Depp, had a cameo where he was almost unrecognizable as Guy Lapointe. He has a fairly large role towards the end of the film.
The story switches from lighthearted to dark and demented seamlessly in the blink of an eye. Michael Parks goes from a kindhearted old man with a witty sense of humor to a depraved psycho, and it really was frightening how good he was at playing the villain. The way he spoke the words were not all that made his character dark, the look in his eyes was that of a true mad man which help lend more authenticity to the role of Howard Howe.
Justin Long was the perfect choice for Wallace. This character was a bit of a scumbag (he cheats on his girlfriend and exploits people for a living) with a very humorous personality. He was almost the guy you love to hate until everything flipped for him. I also thought it was a bit ironic that his character's name was Wallace which is dangerously close to walrus, well played Mr. Smith, well played.
One thing that I really enjoyed about Tusk was that no matter how dark the scenes became, there was always a comedic relief. The horror and comedy blended together phenomenally without becoming insanely campy. I almost felt bad for laughing through the whole thing because there were such horrible things happening to the title character.
The character of Howard Howe is sympathetic psychopath. He has only been burnt by humanity and found happiness only with a walrus (Mr. Tusk). So was he born a crazy, Dr. Frankenstein type or was he driven there by the coldness of others and the grief of losing the only friend he ever knew?
Not only was this a tale of shock and horror, but I feel it was also a bit of a karma tale. The cheating boyfriend that exploits the misfortune of others for a living gets kidnapped and basically tortured, and a psychopath is betrayed by the one creature that he shared a connection with.
The special effects for this film were outstanding. My biggest concern was about the "walrus suit" and how it was actually going to look. It was amazing, there was a bit of camp to it, but the overall appearance of it was shocking. The best way I can describe it is Frankenstein meets National Geographic. There weren't really any over the top gory scenes, but the bloody scenes that were in the film were executed very well.
The ending was actually quite sweet. It is not the ending that I saw coming, but it fit the entire story of the film perfectly. It brought the whole film full circle.
I recommend Tusk to fans of Kevin's other work all the way down to the most hardcore horror junkies. There is something for everyone in this film. Kevin Smith's best film since Clerks.