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Real Madrid 0-0 Valencia: lots of chances, no goals
Real Madrid dropped points at home despite dominating.
Jose Mourinho gave a rare start to Raul Albiol against his former club, and played Karim Benzema on the right wing, with Angel Di Maria on the bench.
Unai Emery was without Roberto Soldado, and made five changes to the side that drew with Levante last week. The centre-back duo of Victor Ruiz and Adil Rami, who have been excellent this season, was the only part of the side that remained in place.
This match really should have had goals, with both sides missing big chances.
Real shape
Both sides played a 4-2-3-1 formation, and the battles across the pitch were obvious. Real played a very fluid shape in the final third, with Mesut Ozil typically drifting to the flanks and allowing the wide players inside, exploiting the space left when Mehmet Topal followed Ozil. Cristiano Ronaldo played more centrally than usual, coming inside into 'number ten' positions, and he had two early efforts from range that went close. On the other flank, Benzema didn't look happy when getting the ball in wide positions – he doesn't have the technical skill to beat Jordi Alba. His best contribution was when he came inside into a centre-forward position, Ozil found him, and Benzema backheeled to Ronaldo for a good chance.
The battle between Ricardo Costa and Ronaldo was interesting. Costa was happy to follow Ronaldo into central positions, which meant Feghouli had to become a wing-back and track Marcelo. Going the other way. Ronaldo didn't track back much into his own third, which meant Costa got a couple of opportunities to prompt attacks – when he was brave enough to get in advance of Ronaldo.
Valencia breaks
Valencia had plenty of chances here, particularly on the break. Real's front four generally pressed high up when they lost the ball, but their pressing wasn't always integrated and Valencia were able to break through one 'line' at a time when working the ball towards goal. There were two different situations here. Sometimes, the front four would press, but then Alonso and Khedira would stay deeper, and one of the Valencia central midfielders would get time on the ball to play a good pass. Alternatively, if Alonso and Khedira did move forward, they would often leave Tino Costa free between the lines, and neither Pepe nor Albiol wanted to step forward and deal with him.
This was combined with intelligent breaking down the flanks. Costa got forward a little, but down the left was where Valencia really did well. Both Alba and Pablo Piatti broke past their men quickly as soon as Valencia won the ball. With these players in space, plus a bit of time to consider their passes in the centre, Emery's side manufactured a good number of chances.
Another issue here was the tempo. Valencia were content to slow the game down at set-pieces (though with the ball they broke quickly), and Real struggled to move up through the gears. There was rarely continual spells of heavy pressure from the home side.
Second half
Mourinho made the obvious decision to bring on Angel di Maria on down the right. Higuain departed, and Benzema went upfront. Within thirty seconds the Argentine had made more successful dribbles than Benzema had in the first half, and he teed up Ronaldo for another good chance. Granted, this was after coming inside rather than staying wide, but it was the kind of classic wing play Benzema can't provide.
Ozil was probably the key player for Real in terms of creating chances and prompting movement, but Valencia continued to hold out, tracking runners in midfield and defending wito two banks of four. Emery took off his wide players on 62 minutes to give more energy to the side, with Pablo Hernandez and Jeremy Mathieu on. They played the same roles as the men they replaced, with Mathieu staying wide (he seems to cause the big two problems, and he had a good chance here by getting in behind Alvaro Arbeloa) and Pablo trying to drift inside into space between the lines.
Further back, Topal started to play deeper, and sometimes seemed to drop in as right-sided centre-back when the ball was wide. He also helped Ricardo Costa with Ronaldo.
Jose Mourinho went for Kaka on 70 minutes. The Brazilian came on for Khedira, with Alonso now the sole holder and an attacking band of four supporting Benzema upfront. Ozil played a little deeper and was now helping Alonso play the initial pass into the final third. Real continued to play with great fluidity, but still ended up with too many players in a central zone, and they looked better when di Maria stayed wider, where he played a couple of crosses with the outside of his left foot.
Emery didn't really respond to the added threat from Kaka. Daniel Parejo probably sat deeper, especially with Topal dropping in, but Tino Costa's main job was still on Alonso, rather than dropping in as a third holder. Valencia continued to be a threat on the break, mainly with straight passes, and especially by getting in behind Arbeloa, who seemed slow on the turn and got little help from ahead against Alba and Mathieu, who switched position at will.
Jose Callejon replaced Ozil in the final ten minutes, and Real had more structure to the side, with Callejon out wide on the right and Di Maria on the left. They stretched the play, and now Valencia came under real pressure, though the crosses from wide were often poor, and Valencia's last-ditch defending was admirable.
This is an odd Valencia performance to analyse – although the scoreline finished 0-0, and Valencia were decent value for their point, the scoreline doesn't reflect what Valencia did well, because the game could have finished 3-3 or 4-4.
They didn't defend particularly well, and were probably relieved that Real were so narrow for so long. Their real skill was being able to break through Real, by playing in the spaces between the lines, and later getting in behind Arbeloa.
Real's play, unusually for a Mourinho side, lacked structure. They also found it difficult to keep the tempo high, or put Valencia under sustained spells of pressure. The first change worked well, with Di Maria on to provide dribbles, but the second made things too congested with Ozil and Kaka in the same space, and it required the third change to bring some structure to the side – you can't have five attackers wandering wherever they please.


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Maybe you would get an idea from reading the instructions foreigners seek when they go to wikitravel's page on the USA.
Driving Laws
As with the rest of North America, Americans drive on the right in left-hand drive vehicles and pass on the left. White lines separate traffic moving in the same direction and yellow lines separate opposing traffic. Right turn on red after coming to a complete stop is legal (unless a sign prohibits it) in nearly all states and cities, though New York City is a notable exception. Red lights and stop signs are always enforced at all hours in nearly all U.S. jurisdictions.
Most American drivers tend to drive calmly and safely in the sprawling residential suburban neighborhoods where the majority of Americans live. However, freeways around the central areas of big cities often become crowded with a significant proportion of "hurried" drivers — who will exceed speed limits, make unsafe lane changes, or follow other cars at unsafe close distances (known as "tailgating"). Enforcement of posted speed limits is somewhat unpredictable and varies widely from state to state. Not exceeding the pace of other drivers will usually avoid a troublesome citation. Beware of small towns along otherwise high-speed rural roads (and medium-speed suburban roads); the reduced speed limits found while going through such towns are strictly enforced.
The official U.S. currency is the United States dollar ($), divided into 100 cents (¢). Conversion rates vary daily and are available online [45]. Foreign currencies are almost never accepted, although some major hotel chains may accept travelers cheques in other currencies. Canadian currency is sometimes accepted at larger stores within 100 miles of the border, but discounted for the exchange rate. (This is less of an issue nowadays with the stronger Canadian dollar.) Watch for stores that really want Canadian shoppers and will accept at par. Often, a few Canadian coins (especially pennies) won't be noticed, but less so the further south you go. Now that the Mexican peso has stabilized, it is somewhat accepted at some locations at border towns (El Paso, Laredo, etc), but you're better off exchanging your pesos in Mexico, and using U.S. dollars instead, to ensure the best exchange rate.
Common American bills are for $1, $5, $10, $2 The standard coins are the penny (1¢, copper color), the chunky nickel (5¢, silver color), the tiny dime (10¢, silver color) and the quarter (25¢, silver color). None of these coins display the numeral of their value, so it is important to recognize the names of each. The size doesn't necessarily correspond to their relative value: the dime is the smallest coin, followed by the penny, nickel, and quarter. Half dollar (50¢, silver) and dollar ($1, silver or gold) coins exist but are uncommon. Coin-operated machines usually only accept nickels, dimes, and quarters.
Types of Resturants
Fast food restaurants such as McDonald's, Subway and Burger King are ubiquitous. But the variety of this type of restaurant in the U.S. is astounding: pizza, Chinese and Mexican food, fish, chicken, barbecued meat, and ice-cream only begin to touch on it. Alcoholic beverages are not served in these restaurants; "soda" (often called "pop" in the Midwest through Western New York and Western Pennsylvania, or generically "coke" in the South) or other soft drinks are standard. Don't be surprised when you order a soda, are handed a paper cup and expected to fill it yourself from the machine (refills are often free). The quality of the food varies, but because of the strictly limited menu, it is generally good. Also the restaurants are usually clean and bright, and the service is limited but friendly. Tipping is not expected but you must clear your table after your meal.
Take-out food is very common in larger cities, for food that may take a little longer to prepare than a fast-food place can accommodate. Place an order by phone and then go to the restaurant to pick it up and take it away. Many places will also deliver; in fact, in some cities, it will be easier to have pizza or Chinese food delivered than to find a sit-down restaurant.
Fast-Casual is a fairly recent new genre of restaurants that grew in popularity during the 2000's. They are places that are usually around $5-7 for a meal and involve a little bit of waiting as food is prepared fresh (although much less waiting than sit-down restaurants). They tend to be a bit healthier than most typical fast food chains and offer distinct menus. Notable fast-casuals include: Chipotle, Noodles and Company, Panera Bread, and Freddies Burgers.
A lot more of this interesting article can be found on Wikitravel's United States page. Check it out!

subset: commoncrawl


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Kuwait civil authority cancels contracts of more than 3,000 expats
Work contracts for 3,140 non-Kuwaitis serving in the public sector have been cancelled, said Ahmad Al- Jassar, Chairman of the Civil Services Commission (CSC) on Saturday.
These contracts have been invalidated according to the CSC resolution with respect of the personnel proportions stipulated for the 2017-2018 period, as part of the State policy of replacing expatriates with nationals in the government sector.
The dismissed personnel served in various ministries, government departments and bodies of independent budgets, he said in a statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA). Al-Jassar has affirmed that these workers have been laid off in line with the State policy of "Kuwaitizing" jobs in the sector, as stipulated by the CSC decision 11/2017, which essentially exempted jobs in the medical and health sectors.
Number of the non-Kuwaiti civil servants, subject to the commission resolution, amounted to 44,572, without deducting the dismissed ones. These serve in 46 government sectors, including 25,948 in teaching and training, 6,474 in services, 3,537 in law and Islamic affairs, 2,876 in engineering and 1,539 in social and educational services as well as sports.
Moreover, 1,221 perform financial, economic and commercial jobs, 1,130 in the sector of administrative back-up, 483 in information systems and technology, 377 in manual works, 308 in literature, media and public relations, 221 in forensics, 205 in agriculture and livestock, 212 in sciences, 37 in administrative development and statistics and five in marine tasks.
By Jamal Yali
Source : Arabtimes
Filed in: All • Local News


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Although Britain and Saudi Arabia have ended their quarrel over the screening on British television of the film "Death of a Princess," some remnants of strain between the two nations apparently still exist.
Recent talks between Saudi King Khalid and British Foreign Secretary Lord Carrington have helped to restore cordial relations between London and Riyadh on the surface, however.
Lord Carrington undertook a personal mission to Taif, the Saudi summer capital, for talks with the King. He made every effort to settle the differences that arose when the film portrayed the public execution of a Saudi princess for adultery.
(The film was shown in Britain earlier this year, causing a strong unfavorable reaction by the Saudis.)
The two countries now are to set up a "joint committee for cultural cooperation," hoping it can be used for avoiding future misunderstandings. But members of King Khalid's family are still in a suspicious frame of mind, and politics -- in the shape of a recent Saudi threat of jihad (holy struggle) against Israel -- has increased the possibility that Britain and Saudi Arabia will have to work hard to avoid mutual policy conflicts.
A lot was at stake in the British bid to end the quarrel. Before it arose, the two countries had an annual trade worth $:2 billion ($4.6 billion). When King Khalid expressed his displeasure over the film and ordered Britain's ambassador back to London, Saudi orders for British goods and know-how began drying up rapidly.
According to one estimate, orders worth $:250 million ($575 million) were lost in the immediate aftermath of the dispute.
Lord Carrington set about healing the breach with all his accustomed urbanity. In the spring, he made an explanatory statement to the King, expressing his regret at the decision to show the film.
Later, he sent a Foreign Office minister to Taif to point out that Britain was keen to put relations back on a friendly footing.
The British ambassador to Saudi Arabia received an invitation to resume his work -- a sign that the King's mood was thawing. But it took Lord Carrington's personal presence at the court of the King to put the seal on a return to normality.
The new joint committee will be assigned the task of trying to minimize quarrels, but some British analysts fear the Saudis may wish to use it as channel for putting pressure on Britain to prevent programs critical of Saudi Arabia from being screened.
Lord Carrington in Taif discovered that the Saudis also are taking a bitterly critical view of Israeli actions in the occupied territories, southern Lebanon, and Jerusalem.
They pointed out that jihad does not necessarily involve warlike actions. On the other hand, it could mean a decision to use the oil weapon against any state that in the Saudi view was adopting policies sympathetic toward Israel.
This means that Saudi Arabian relations with countries in Europe, including Britain, will depend on the attitude of their governments toward Israel.
As one commentator put it, the Saudis discreetly served notice on Lord Carrington that Britain would be expected to follow policies that take a sympathetic view of Saudi demands.
This means that Britain will have to tread warily in its dealings with the court of King Khalid, since it still depends heavily on oil from the Gulf.


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Here is yet another amazing release from the very talented Indyra Seigo of Indyra Orginals. This 'Jessamine' outfit is the perfect for all the Holiday events that are planned. There is also a new skin line, called '', from the amazing Carina Larsen of Amacci . So, what are you waiting for? Go check-out these amazing stores NOW! Here are your limos:
Indyra Orginals
~ Style Info ~
Eyes: FASHISM 'Sunrise' Eyes - Brown (M) by Ikon Innovia
Skin: Amacci Skin - Liane (Nutmeg) - 12 Ruby by Carina Larsen
Hair: booN TUN247 hair brown by boo Nakamura
Earrings: Indy&Co.: Briolette Earrings R: Rouge by Indyra Seigo (NEW)
Necklace: -tb- C88 String Necklaces - Gold by Julliette Westerburg (@ Collabor88)
Stole: !Ohmai for Collabor88 - A Lil' Foxy (Black Fox) by Anya Ohmai
Dress: Indyra Originals: Jessamine: Noir
Bangles: Izzie's - *resize* Angular Bangles black by Izzie Button (NEW)
Gloves: The Secret Store Fine gloves - Black by Maylee Oh
Ring L: LaGyo _Mongrain ring by Gyorgyna Larnia
Ring R: LaGyo_Popillia ring gold sapphire by Gyorgyna Larnia
Clutch: LaGyo _Lora purse Jet by Gyorgyna Larnia
Shoes: Indyra Originals Coquette Noir MIschief Wedge by Indyra Seigo
Poses: *Everglow* by Fanny Willis & label motion by anne Dakun


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Three Types of Textiles You Can Frame
When you hear "textiles", what comes to mind? A piece of cloth hanging on a wall in a frame? Not everyone's first thought but it's quite common. Hanging textiles is an out-of-the-box method for bringing some character into the home, especially if they're made by hand or bought from a foreign country.
Silk scarves/handkerchiefs
Delicate hand printed scarves or those that have unique patterns are pieces of art in their own right. If you're scared to wear it, why not frame it? It doesn't belong in the drawer. They are a great conversation starter if you have several from the same designer from an older era. Have some Hermés scarves? Salvatore Ferragamo? Some random pieces you bought from a little Italian man in a back alley? Frame them.
Framing quilts are a wonderful, homely touch. These textiles have a story; Nana made it for her first grandchild. This quilt won a blue ribbon at the show. I got this from a yard sale and it turns out to be worth ten times what I paid.
A quilt makes a nice hanging for an intimate space. Nurseries for younger children and guest rooms would benefit from a hanging like this.
The Bayeux Tapestry is framed; in a temperature controlled room and nobody can get within a meter of it but it's framed nonetheless! Exotic tapestries picked up from overseas trips are either suspended freely on the wall (by hooks) or in a frame. Framing it will help the tapestry keep shape. Hanging it freely will make it sag slightly if the material is a heavy weave.
Show off silk scarves that you're scared to wear because of delicacy. Brag about the quilt that won a prize! Show your guests that exotic tapestry you got from your last trip. Hanging your textiles brings character to an empty wall and will free up some storage space.


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- Home
- About Us
- People
- Research
- Courses
- Publications
- Open Positions
- Systems Group Blog
Despite the availability of several commercial data stream processing engines (SPEs), it remains hard to develop and maintain streaming applications. A major difficulty is the lack of standards, and the wide (and changing) variety of application requirements. Consequently, existing SPEs vary widely in data and query models, APIs, functionality, and optimization capabilities. This has led to some organizations using multiple SPEs, based on their application needs. Furthermore, management of stored data and streaming data are still mostly separate concerns, although applications increasingly require integrated access to both. In the MaxStream project, our goal is to design and build a federated stream processing architecture that seamlessly integrates multiple autonomous and heterogeneous SPEs with traditional databases behind a common SQL-based declarative query interface and a common API in a way to facilitate the incorporation of new functionality and requirements.
Contact: Prof. Dr. Nesime Tatbul


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Written by Fleming Voetmann, International Copper Association.
As the world transitions to a low-carbon future and delivers on SDG7, we are going to need more metals from both recycling and mining. The World Bank predicts copper demand from renewable energy alone could grow by over 250 percent toward 2050.[1] Similar forecasts are made for other vital metals. Reduced poverty, a rapidly growing global middle class and increased electrification will also drive demand for metals.
The metals we need to shift to low-carbon energy are often found in developing countries and emerging economies, offering enormous opportunities for sustainable growth and jobs, as well as generating taxes to finance education, healthcare, etc. Many of these resource-rich countries are positioning themselves to seek the full potential of a low-carbon future and help deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
While countries with significant natural resources are planning how to achieve the SDGs, much can be learned from Chile. Rich in natural resources such as fish, agriculture and minerals, Chile is an excellent case of how a country with good governance, a solid political framework and ambitious public-private partnerships has used its natural resources to ensure strong economic development, employment and investments in education, healthcare and infrastructure.
Key to Chile's robust economic development is its inclusive growth—enabling people to earn the wages they need to thrive. Through reforms and policies, Chile reduced its poverty from 40.5 percent just a few decades ago to 8.5 percent today while quadrupling per capita income.[2]
Mining, particularly copper mining, is a central pillar of Chile's sustainable-economic development. Copper mining represents a $24 billion industry, 10 percent of the country's GDP and an average of 7.8 percent of tax revenue. Copper mining also employs close to 400,000 people in Chile.[3] Impressively, copper-mining companies are among the most innovative in the country, with processes and organizational management at double the national average and significant positive indirect impact on supporting industries.
Additionally, mining regions have significantly higher salaries—between 80 to 110 percent higher than regional averages—and up to 50 percent lower poverty rates than the national average, one-third lower than regions without copper mining.
Chile has become one of the two highest-income Latin American economies. To achieve these results, Chile adopted policies and practices to raise and manage revenues in ways benefitting its citizens. Since clean technologies require large quantities of metals and minerals, developing countries with major natural resources have an opportunity to prepare for the growth in demand, while ensuring the appropriate policy mechanisms are in place to safeguard inclusive growth, local communities and the environment.[4]
To help achieve a more sustainable future the SDGs offer the best and most comprehensive framework for fruitful collaboration between the public and the private sector, and when it comes to sustainable development in natural resource-rich countries, much can be learned from the impressive progress made in Chile.
[1] "The Growing Role of Minerals and Metals for A Low-Carbon Future." World Bank, July 2017. Retrieved from http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/207371500386458722/pdf/117581-WP-P159838-PUBLIC-ClimateSmartMiningJuly.pdf. Figure 2.11 Mean Cumulative Demand, 2013–50, for the Technologies Examined in This Study (Impact on cumulative demand of relevant metals by 2050, under the 2DS scenario, as a fraction of cumulative demand if the 2013 production levels are sustained to 2050.)
[2] The Socioeconomic Impact of Copper Mining in Chile. (June 2018). Retrieved from https://sustainablecopper.org/the-socioeconomic-impact-of-copper-mining-in-chile/
[3] Ibid, The Socioeconomic Impact of Copper Mining in Chile. (June 2018)
[4] In a Low-Carbon Future, Better Mineral Governance Could Power Development. (June 5, 2018). Retrieved from https://resourcegovernance.org/blog/low-carbon-future-better-mineral-governance-could-power-development


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Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive
Premium Polyurethane Construction Adhesive
Download TDS | Request SDS | Technical Support
915 sealant is a one-component, smooth polyurethane adhesive capable of dynamic joint movement totaling 70% of original joint geometry (±35%). The sealant cures to a tough, flexible rubber when exposed to moisture present in the atmosphere.
Bostik 915 all seasons formula has physical properties that will remain relatively stable over time. The cured performance temperature range is -400°F to 1500°F. Where textured appearance is needed, please use Bostik 916.


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Open from September 2020
Dear guests of the Ory Bar. We are pleased to announce that our beloved bar will open in September after a major break & renovation phase of the hotel.
- 3pm - 01am
- 3pm - 03am
Your day at Ory
15-18 Light Cocktails & Snacks
18 'til late Barfood & Cocktails
Find the Ory News here
Ory Bar World
Discover our world of cocktails. With our current menu "liquid materials" you can dive into a taste interpretation of our materials, such as stone, red velvet or green wall.
A room as individual as its guests.
Characterized by high grade materials, a generous geometry and an avant-gard-like atmosphere, resulting in a representative elegance, the Bar succeeds to match the representative elegance of Mandarin Oriental, Munich.
Nevertheless, the room elicits a distinctive and individual character due to numerous details such as the self-developed wall structure.
Thereby, Ory bridges the architectural gap between a hotel culture dedicated to excellence and the contemporary expectations of a modern, Munich-based bar.
That certain something.
Our selection of international Soulfood reads both savory and sweet and rounds off our barmenu. Late into the night, our kitchen offers modern variations of classic dishes, which can be enjoyed alone but also invite to share.Barfood Menu
The Ory Family
What is and will always be just as important as the composition of our drinks, is the composition of the Ory Team. That is why we would like to introduce the people who ensure, that an evening at Ory will not be forgotten the following day.The entire Ory team


text: Use a pool -> calculate the volume of water of the pool and the water level, put the elephant in the pool, take note of the level after the elephant after it is in the pool. By Archimedes principle, the volume of water dislocated is the same as the weight. So the weight of the elephant is the same as the difference in water volume.


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Not just a review, but a comment for those thinking this Module is dead. You can STILL use it with facebook with no problems. You simply need to:
my $auth = eval {
desktop => 0,
server_uri => 'api.facebook.com/restserver.php?acces... . $session->{access_token},
server_uri needs a modified version of restserver.php where you need to pass the access_token you obtain from the OAuth2 dance by parsing the signed_request.
Provided for reference.
sub parse_signed_request {
# ----------------------------------------------------
my ($expected_sig,$decoded_payload,$json,$sig,$encoded_sig,$payload,$data,$signed_request);
$signed_request = shift;
$json = JSON::XS->new->ascii->pretty->allow_nonref;
($encoded_sig, $payload) = split(/\./,$signed_request,2);
# Decode the data
$sig = urlsafe_b64decode($encoded_sig) if $encoded_sig;
$data = $json->decode(urlsafe_b64decode($payload)) if $payload;
if ($data->{algorithm} ne 'HMAC-SHA256') {
facebook_warnings("Unknown algorithm. Expected HMAC-SHA256");
# check sig
$expected_sig = hmac_sha256($payload, $SECRET);
if ($sig ne $expected_sig) {
facebook_warnings("Bad Signed JSON signature!");
$data->{encoded_sig} = $encoded_sig;
return $data;
This isn't a review, but rather a response to Anders Nielsen.
You may want to check out Facebook::Graph; it is maintained and works with the current Facebook API.
I've used the module in the past and I was happy with it then.
But the module seems to be dead now. The RT queue contains spam and bug reports without answers.
I don't think the module works after Facebook changed their API.
It would be nice if the maintainer would document if the module still works or not.
Btw. thank you for the module :-)
My use of the module has been almost entirely restricted to running FQL queries, and it's been fantastic. Thank-you!
Thank you for this wonderful module. Easily extensible (we added support for notes with no problems), worked pretty much first time.
Would be nice if the thrown Errors were more structured, as we just get a string out. But it's a minor problem.
David, thanks for the excellent Facebook API. It works well, and I note that it is updated frequently as FB adds functionality or makes changes -- which as we all know, happens all the time. Thank you!!!!!!
Well designed module with a clear interface, sane code, and good docs. And the developer is incredibly responsive and helpful. Not to mention patient in the face of my continued blundering and stupidity :)


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Patient Testimonials
Dr. Ivan Mac Reviews
I have worn glasses since I was in the 2nd grade. I was told my eyes would level off when I turned 18. but they didn't. I was -13.00 and had Astigmatism. When I went to contacts because my glasses were so thick I could only wear the hard ones. Dr. Mac introduced me to the ReSTOR lens and I now have perfect vision. My whole life has changed!!
Kelly G.
Don't wait years – just do it! Words can't describe the feeling. I am just ecstatic with the whole place. Best experience I have ever had. Doctor Mac is the nicest doctor around and the staff the friendliest, hippest around. I couldn't believe I waited so long to do it! The LASIK procedure met my expectations, and I had high expectations. My vision is now 20/20!!!"
Diane, Age 41
Karen H., CMA
I'd worn glasses since I was 8 years old. I had considered LASIK for a couple of years, and after I did my research, I chose Dr. Mac over all the other surgeons because he explained the procedure better than anyone else and put me completely at ease.After the procedure, the healing
process was simple and easy! I really enjoy my new life without glasses and I can do a lot of activities outdoors that I couldn't do before. My choice to have LASIK here was one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life. Thank you Dr. Mac, and thank you Grace!
R.W. Hunter
Before I came to Metrolina Eye Associates, my vision was horrible! Dr. Mac met with me and informed me about Laser Eye Surgery. I had very bad astigmatism in both eyes and he was able to correct my vision and now I am seeing 20/20 in both eyes. With Dr. Mac, I wasn't just another number, he was personable and very professional. I recommend Dr. Mac and his excellent staff to everyone I talk to about the surgery.
Dr. Dara Khalatbari Reviews
Laser Vision Correction
I have been wearing contact lenses since my high school years. Last year when I went for my annual eye exam, Dr K. discussed the option of PRK and LASIK surgery to correct my vision. I was given ample time to review both options and I opted to proceed with PRK.
Dr. K answered all my questions and told me what to expect after the surgery. The day of surgery I was very nervous, but the friendly staff helped me relax in a very comfortable environment. The surgery was quick and painless. I was given medications for my pain and was seen by Dr. K the next day. I was back to work on the second day after surgery.
I am about a year out and my vision is 20/20.
The only regret I have about the surgery, I should have it done sooner!
A.F. (a Physician)
Toric Lens with Cataract Surgery
I recently had cataract surgery with Dr. Khalatbari. Dr. K put me at ease both before and during my surgery. I chose to have a Toric lens implanted in my right eye. My results were fantastic! I no longer need to wear glasses, and my vision is the best it has ever been. I am actually looking forward to the surgery on my left eye (I can't believe I said that)!
The Toric Lens you implanted in each of my eyes has given me better vision than I have had for over 50 years. It's great not to wear glasses all the time, just for reading!
To go from tri-focal glasses all the time I was awake to no glasses most of the time is just wonderful! The distortion is gone. Things are so clear. Using non prescription reading glasses some of the time is definitely no problem.
Restor© Lens with Cataract Surgery
I am 75 years old and I have worn glasses for 33 years. The lens I chose was the "multifocal lens." This choice allows me to see both near AND far WITHOUT glasses. The entire process only took about fifteen minutes. I felt NO discomfort during or after surgery. If I had known how wonderful the difference would be, I would never have waited so long to have this procedure done. Sometimes I reach up to pull my glasses off at night and I realize I don't have glasses on. Distant and near vision is more clear and brighter. The following routines of my daily life have immensely improved without glasses: reading, comfort to do outside work. I would highly recommend Dr. Khalatbari, his staff and the "multifocal lens."
I just want to say "thank you" for the services that I have received from Metrolina Eye Associates. It was necessary for me to see an eye specialist and my sister recommended Metrolina since she had been very pleased with the services. I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. K who informed me of my situation with cataracts. Dr. K took time to explain everything in detail and made me feel very comfortable. The cataract surgery for both eyes went great. Dr. K explained the choice of lens available and I opted to go with the Restor lens. This was a great choice for me. I have not worn glasses since my first eye surgery. It is wonderful!


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You are currently browsing the tag archive for the 'Trent Reznor' tag.
Tag Archive
Grouching the Oscars: Final Wishes
January 24, 2011 in Best Original Screenplay, Best Score, Get Low, Grouching the Oscars, Please Give, The Social Network, Winter's Bone | Tags: Atticus Ross, John Hawkes, Robert Duvall, Trent Reznor | by John | 1 comment
Oscar nominations arrive Tuesday, January 25. To prepare, we're giving you our sharpest insight and predictions. Our last topic: what are you most hoping will happen tomorrow? If you're reading this Tuesday, give your favorite Grouch a high five or a supportive pat on the back, depending on what happens.
Brian: Reznor needs to score
Only in the fantastical world of the Oscars would it be possible for a nominee to be just on the edge of being recognized yet should it get nominated, be a favorite for win. That's the general consensus around Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross' score for The Social Network. Having already won the Golden Globe for Best Score, you'd think this is a shoo-in. But you'd be wrong. It's rather astonishing and remarkable that such a simple series of 6 notes could be so evocative. Listening to it while writing this post, I could visualize so much of the film in my head. Like Sorkin and Fincher's portrayal of Zuckerberg, the score is isolating and contemplative, not to mention brilliant.
Honorable mention: Please Give for Best Original Screenplay. My hobby horse for the year — great storytelling with subtle character development. More to come from me on this one.
John: A Duvall-less Oscars would make me Low
I didn't have a pet cause this season until right at the last minute. That cause is Get Low, a delightful and touching drama with a nice comedic streak. Robert Duvall gives a wonderful, subtle performance. He's on the bubble for a Best Actor nomination and I'm rooting hard for him. (I also hold out very small hope for Bill Murray.)
On some smaller notes, I'm rooting for Eddie Vedder to finally land a Best Song nod, this time for "Better Days" from Eat, Pray, Love. It's actually not a very good song, but… Eddie Vedder! Cmon!
Finally, I just want an out of left field surprise (provided it doesn't push out a favorite of mine) and/or some better-than-expected love for some smaller films like Another Year.
Jared: Snub Hawkes and I'll have a Bone to pick with the Academy
I think the other Grouches will agree that this year it is difficult to find too much to root for, nomination-wise. Films and performances I loved are either safely in the club or so far off the radar that there's really no chance at all to pick up a nomination.
Still, what fun is this if you can't root for something? When I first heard a few months ago someone suggesting that John Hawkes could nab an Oscar nomination, I laughed it off, thinking the person was probably just a huge Winter's Bone fan forgetting the crush of performances that would enter the fray come Oscar season. And Hawkes almost didn't factor into awards season. Except for getting a SAG nomination. Which has to establish him as a viable contender, given the frequent overlap between the SAGs and the Oscars. Hawkes's role may not be as showy as Bale's, on the nose as Renner's, or have the screen time of Rush's, but his performance is incredibly memorable nonetheless. Yeah, it would be nice to give someone his first nomination and share some indie love. But more than that, it'd be nice to recognize a performance that I believe really is one of the best of the year, name recognition be damned.
(As a side note, I'm not hoping for Hawkes as the expense of Ruffalo. And the thing that would conceivably make me the happiest is a screenplay nom for How to Train Your Dragon, but that seems a little more remote.)


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Date: 10/30/2009
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Carl Bradford
Carl Bradford runs down Matt Scott for a three yard sack.
Carl Bradford and Will Sutton
Carl Bradford tackles Ka'deem Carey hard.
D.J. Foster
D.J. Foster prepares for impact with Arizona's Derrick Rainey.
Keelan Johnson
Keelan Johnson wraps up on Arizona quarterback Matt Scott.
Darwin Rogers
Darwin Rogers is tackled by Arizona safety Vince Miles after picking up ten yards and an ASU first down on the pass reception.
D.J. Foster carries the ball.
Chris Young
Arizona quarterback Matt Scott cuts inside of a tackle attempt by Chris Young.
Cameron Marshall
Cameron Marshall fights to avoid being tackled by Arizona's Sione Tuihalamaka.
Marion Grice
Marion Grice breaks into the open, takes advantage of a block by wide receiver Richard Smith,...


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Neiva Dresser
Measurements63" W x 20" D x 33" H
161 cm W x 51 cm D x 84 cm H
103.9 kg
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Live like a king or queen in the Neiva. Just after a long and interesting day or night, we know where you'll go back to at the end of the day. The Neiva is designed with style and comfort in mind, giving you just what you're looking for. Who knew a Dresser would be so satisfying? Feel proud of your Neiva.
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Keeping these things in mind will help you keep your furniture looking its best for years to come.Warranty Information
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Editorial Note
For those looking at the spread of negative images of Israel in the West, universities are good point to start. As IAM has repeatedly noted, campuses are incubators of the notion that Israel has a highly negative presence in international relations, a country which occupies and mistreats the Palestinians to the point of a virtual apartheid. This view is especially entrenched in elite universities such as the Ivy League schools in the United States or Oxford and Cambridge in England.
In the article below, Ilan Manor, a newly arrived Ph.D. student at Oxford University, captures this notion well. Oxford dons "do not regard Israel as a high tech nation, a gay tourist destination or a model for modern democracy." Worse, in his view, "no public diplomacy, no sloganeering, and no infographics shared on line can counter Israel's reputation as a synonymous with bigotry, violence and the oppression of human rights."
Israel's poor standing in the academic community is part and parcel of a broad trend in the liberal arts, namely the virtual dominance of leftist views in the academy.
In his review of a new book by Paul Kengar on the subject, the journalist Robert Knight writes that the "Italian Communist Antonio Gramsci" called for his fellow revolutionaries to "'capture the culture,' that is, infiltrate the institutions that transmit cultural values. So they did, especially in the universities."
Recognizing that Israel has become a poster child of the Gramscian revolution in higher education, does not make it easier to fight the phenomenon. As Manor noted, not only do elite universities educate the cultural and political elites that dictate the popular perception of their own countries, but inform the views of the a large cohort of future leading elites in the world: "Oxford is more than that, it is a global melting pot: The dining halls are filled each night with students from Switzerland, the Netherlands, Korea, Japan, Egypt and India."
Manor's observations are noteworthy in the context of the current efforts to offer a counter-narrative to the view that Israel is the "skunk" in the international community, a term which Nelson Mandela had used to describe the apartheid-era South Africa. Although Manor seems to be pessimistic that such efforts would succeed, they are essential to balancing the view on campus.
Hasbara Fail: At Oxford, Students Don't Buy Israel's Case
No public diplomacy campaign, no sloganeering and no infographic shared online can counter Israel's reputation as synonymous with bigotry, violence and the oppression of human rights.
Ilan Manor Oct 26, 2015 5:06 PM
Yesterday evening I spoke to my grandfather for the first time since arriving at the University of Oxford three weeks ago. His first question did not deal with my health, eating habits or satisfaction with my new home but rather with the collegiate response to the recent terror wave in Israel. "Are they all protesting against us?" he asked.
My response was no, they are not. Since the outburst of violence three weeks ago, there have been no mass protests against Israel, no calls to boycott its products, no petitions demanding the University recognize the State of Palestine, no marches on the local Chabad house and no urgent pleas for a one state solution. Rather, there is indifference — to Israeli and Palestinian victims alike.
This indifference is such that many people I converse with are unaware of the magnitude of violence now facing both sides. When my friends open the newspaper they elegantly skip past news items dealing with Israel. When they surf onto news websites, they gracefully scroll down to the financial section and during conversations they tactfully move from this subject to that of the weather. This indifference stems from their frustration with the conflict, their lack of belief it will be resolved and overall fatigue with hearing about Israeli settlements. They have had enough.
Yet the indifference at Oxford towards the recent outbreak of violence should not be mistaken with acceptance of Israel's policies vis-a-vis the Palestinians. The feeling towards Israel becomes apparent in hallway conversations with other students. There is a facial expression one encounters time and again when you say you're from Israel. It is not one of repulsion — but of disapproval, of anger and of condemnation.
It would be fair to claim that, if the past is any indicator, Oxford and the other top-tier UK universities are key incubators of the future leadership of the UK. But Oxford is much more that. It is a global melting pot: The dining halls are filled each night with students from Switzerland, the Netherlands, Korea, Japan, Nigeria, Egypt and India. Conversations flow from English to French and to Swazi.
The manner in which Israel is perceived by all these future leaders is therefore of great importance — and it is perceived poorly.
When conversations regarding Israel do ensue, they deal with the disproportionate use of power during the 2014 war in Gaza, the high death toll among Palestinians (statistics which many British students with whom I have spoken can quote), the violent behavior of settlers towards Palestinians documented in videos that have gone viral in the UK as elsewhere, the checkpoints, the economic ruin of the Gaza strip and the continued refusal of Israel to recognize Palestinian independence. There are students who can recite without difficulty Prime Minister Netanyahu's comment on Israel's election day about the need to counter 'droves' of Arab Israelis on their way to vote.
During such conversations, my personal politics are not seen as relevant. I am an Israeli, and therefore I am accountable for the policies, statements and actions of the Israeli government, policies that I have spent a decade adamantly opposing.
Despite immense efforts, Oxford scholars do not regard Israel as a high tech nation, a gay tourist destination or a model for modern democracy. They remain unconvinced by Prime Minister Netanyahu's assertions that Israel is the bastion of Western norms, the forefront in the struggle over terror. Nor do they prescribe to Israel's moral relativism according to which the world must denounce Saudi Arabia and Bashar Assad before it denounces Israel. In the eyes of Oxford's students, injustice elsewhere is not a defense for injustice in Israel.
To this international community, Israel is synonymous with bigotry, violence, hate and the oppression of human rights. It is the global spread of this notion that reveals that no public diplomacy campaign, no sophisticated national slogan and no infographic shared online by StandWithUs can counter the impact of the images that arose from Gaza in 2008, and 2012 and 2014, or those that currently emerge from Jerusalem.
Nelson Mandela, in his 1994 inaugural speech, spoke about how post-apartheid South Africa would never more "suffer the indignity of being the skunk of the world." It is after you have talked with all these students from all over the world, after you have been greeted time and again with the same expression of condemnation, that you realize that these days, Israel is the skunk of the world.
Ilan Manor is a PhD Candidate at the University of Oxford. He blogs at www.digdipblog.com.


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Written by Ken Gaebler
Published: 6/28/2010
Microfinancing is becoming an increasing force in the world of small business lending.
A new survey shows that entrepreneurs who can't get standard bank loans are turning to microfinancing lenders to get the loans they need to start or expand their businesses.
The report by the Aspen Institute found that loan applications at microfinance lenders had risen by more than 60 percent over the just past two years. Sixty-eight percent of institutions also expected demand to continue to increase this year.
Experts told BusinessWeek that microfinance loans are aimed at small business owners who can't get a standard bank loan - good news for entrepreneurs who either don't have credit histories or have had some "hiccups" in the past.
The paper says that while the total amount lent by microlenders is a "drop in the bucket" compared to other sources of financing, getting one loan can also help give a business owner the credibility to get other investments.
Worldwide microfinancing lender Grameen bank - founded by Nobel Prize winner Muhammad Yunus - recently launched two new branches in Harlem and Brooklyn to give banking access to underserved residents and reduce dependency in check cashing businesses and unscrupulous lenders.
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HP at Computex 2019 revealed a new series of Elite, Envy, and ZBook series of laptop computers. As part of the Envy range, HP announced the HP Envy 13, HP Envy x360 13, HP Envy x360 15 and the HP Envy 17 Wood Series laptop computers. In the ZBook variety, HP announced the HP ZBook 15 G6 and HP ZBook 17 G6 laptops, and the Elite range sees the launch of the HP Elite x2 G4, HP EliteBook x360 1030 G4, HP EliteBook x360 1040 G6, and even the HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Desktop Mini. Lastly, the US-based company likewise revealed a brand-new version of its VR Backpack.
HP Envy variety
Beginning with the Envy range, the new portfolio is anticipated to be available in fall 2019. HP says that the prices will be shared more detailed to schedule. The brand-new HP Envy 13, HP Envy x360 13, HP Envy x360 15, and HP Envy 17 Wood series laptop computers are the world's very first to be incorporated with wood inlay, and can be found in three options – Nightfall Black with Natural Walnut, Ceramic White with White Birch, or Natural Silver with Pale Birch. Basically an upgrade from the metal variations introduced previously, the brand-new offerings are powered by the next-gen Intel Core processors or 2nd Generation AMD Ryzen Mobile Processors with Radeon Vega Graphics. They come with Amazon Alexa support, modern-day standby, wake on voice, wake on finger print reader, HP Sure View, and HP Webcam Kill Switch option too. HP has actually explore novel materials before, incorporating leather into its Spectre Folio laptop computer in 2015.
HP has likewise revealed a brand-new Uptown Tote, Backpack, and Convertible Backpack just for the HP Envy series. For additional connection to double 4K screens, network, and devices, the HP Thunderbolt Dock G2 with HDMI Adapter has actually also been presented that works across HP and other non-HP laptop computers through a single USB Type-C cable television connection. The HP Envy Uptown Tote, Backpack and Convertible Backpack are anticipated to be available later this summer for $169.99-$ 179.99. The HP Thunderbolt Dock G2 with HDMI Adapter is likewise expected to be offered later on this summertime for a beginning cost of $249.
HP Elite variety
The Elite series has an array of product statements, and HP states that the next-generation of HP's EliteBook PCs are developed with movement kept at the forefront, while likewise incorporating premium and business protected experiences. It integrates HP Sure Sense to the new EliteBook and ZBook lineup for built-in malware security. The company revealed the HP Elite x2 G4 provides a smooth design and is touted to be the world's first company detachable with a leather keyboard folio. It comes with a double cam personal privacy shutter, and a personal privacy screen also. Specifications include a 14-inch 4K (3840×2160 pixels) IPS anti-glare LED-backlit display screen, 8th Generation Intel Core i7 processor, NVIDIA Quadro M620 or Intel UHD Graphics 620, 8 GB DDR4 and 512 GB PCIe NVMe SSD. The HP Elite x2 G4 is anticipated to be offered in August for a beginning price of $1,499.
There's also the EliteBook x360 1030 G4, and EliteBook x360 1040 G6 laptops. The company claims that the EliteBook x360 1040 G6 provides the world's longest battery life (as much as 24 hours) in a 14-inch business convertible. The EliteBook x360 1030 G4 is promoted to be the world's tiniest and lightest organisation convertible with connection choices like Gigabit Class 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth v5. The HP EliteBook x360 1030 G4 and the HP EliteBook x360 1040 G6 are expected to be available in July for a starting price of $1,449.
The business likewise introduced the HP Rechargeable Active Pen G3 for the Elite x2 and full-line of HP Elite convertibles range The HP Active Pen G3 is anticipated to be available later on this summer for a starting rate of $99. It likewise announced the HP Mini-In-One 24, brand-new HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Desktop Mini PC, HP EliteDisplay E223d and the HP EliteDisplay E273d docking monitors, and the HP USB-C Dock G5 and the HP USB-C/A Universal Dock G2 together with the new Elite series.
HP ZBook variety.
In the ZBook series, HP introduced the ZBook 15 G6 and ZBook 17 G6 laptops. These are targeted towards extensive usage scenarios for users like designers, designers, video editors, and VR developers. The laptops are powered by 9th Gen Intel Core and Xeon processors, paired with next-gen Nvidia Quadro RTX graphics that have actually also been revealed at Computex 2019. Both ZBooks use tool-less expandability to upgrade memory and storage in seconds. The ZBook 17 G6 declares to include the world's very first 17-inch DCI-P3 display. The HP ZBook Mobile Workstations are expected to be readily available in July. Pricing will be shared closer to accessibility.
Apart from the specs upgrade, the style of the new G6 designs will be the very same as the predecessor G5 series. Alongside, HP also released HP Z1 Entry Tower G5, HP Z2 Mini G4, HP Z2 Small Form Factor G4, and HP Z2 Tower G4. The HP Z1 Desktop Entry Tower is expected to be offered in July, and the HP Z2 Desktop portfolio is expected to be readily available in August.
HP VR Backpack G2
HP has actually likewise upgraded its VR Backpack lineup with the most recent HP VR Backpack G2, that features 8th Gen Intel Core i7 CPU, Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 GPU. The brand-new offering is said to offer 30 percent much better efficiency and 25 percent quicker graphics. You can slot this newest addition into a dock for usage as a compact video gaming PC. The Backpack is developed to provide a free-roam tetherless experience to resolve the requirements of multi-user home entertainment locations, architectural walk-through, and style simulations. The HP VR Backpack is anticipated to be available this summer season for a beginning rate of $3,299.
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From New Voices online:
When I first began my college search, or perhaps it's better to say when my mother started suggestively leaving college pamphlets on my desk, I refused to acknowledge a life after high school. The prospect of recreating myself and re-establishing my Jewish identity in a foreign environment frightened me enormously, but I needn't have worried. Little did I know that the school I chose — Knox College — which lay nestled in the heart of a sleepy railroad town called Galesburg, Illinois, would turn out to have a steady Jewish pulse.


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Students and some staff stay in the main school building, which has three bathrooms and two hot showers, indoor and outdoor study areas, a small indoor library with over 1,000 books for students and staff including books for Spanish learning along with an excellent selection of books in English and in Spanish (ranging from Latin American history & literature to books about permaculture, feminism, world history and many other great titles).
We also have titles in several other languages including German, French, Danish, Swedish and Norwegian. In the garden we have a larger community library with books in Spanish for local people, staff and students to use. We also have a communal kitchen for students' and staff use.
Evenings at the school are often spent taking part in our fun and interesting evening activities which help you to practice your Spanish. Also students spend many a fun and productive evening studying and socializing with other students and staff or reading and relaxing.
The Escuela de la Montaña is easily accessible, just two hours by bus from Quetzaltenango, and only a short walk off the main road. Detailed travel information is available here. Internet access is available at the school or in a nearby community just five minutes walk away. If you have a Guatemalan mobile phone, reception is available on the Tigo or Claro networks but there is no reception for Movistar.
The school itself occupies two and a half acres of what was once a small coffee finca (farm) and the main school building was the owner's modest residence. The grounds include a beautiful lush garden with many flowers and other plants and trees including banana, avocado, and lime trees; a steep ravine planted with coffee trees; a small organic herb garden with medicinal plants; a fish pond (carp and tilapia), a fertilizer-producing latrine, a small (5-a-side) football pitch, and a mirador (pictured below) where you can see the many different kinds of birds (including hummingbirds) who visit our gardens.


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I love books. It's no secret. I have many favourite books, but the book that really made me want to just read and read and read, was Vendetta by Catherine Doyle. I first picked this up in a library and I whizzed through it in a matter of hours. Afterwards I immediately wanted to know what happened next, but I had to wait until January this year for the sequel, Inferno, to be released. I was blown away. I thought that nothing could beat Vendetta but I was wrong. Inferno was something else. I could not get enough and all I would talk about for the next few days was my love for the book. I now own many copies of both Vendetta and Inferno, and I am so excited for January to finally come so I can read Mafiosa, the third and final instalment in the Blood for Blood series.
3 Reasons You Should Also Read This Series:
- IT WILL KEEP YOU HOOKED FROM THE START There is nothing like a good book that can keep your interest from the beginning to the end, and this series was it for me. It was fact-paced and edgy, keeping me on my toes, wondering what would happen next. I could not put it down, not that I tried.
- A FEMALE FRIENDSHIP TO BE ENVIOUS OF Our main character, Sophie, would be dead without the support of her truly awesome best friend: Millie. She is the ultimate friend and I look forward to her rants and hilarious comments in the third book. I want a Millie 🙂
- ITALIAN BROTHERS The Falcones are 5 brothers who play main roles in the books. Without giving away too much, I can say that they are ones too watch carefully. As Sophie gets tangled further up in their business we see a unique view of the mafia and family structures within it. Although they might be similar in looks, the brothers couldn't be more different in personality and you will be sure to fall for at least one of them.
To enter to win a copy of Vendetta by Catherine Doyle and various other bookish goodies from YALC, just follow this blog and leave your name and twitter handle in the comments. The competition runs from today (August 27th) to 3rd of September.
Thank you for visiting my blog and may the odds be ever in your favour!


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Today, just one month after the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, thousands of students walked out of their classrooms to demand stricter gun laws and to end school shootings. They stood outside of their schools for 17 minutes — one minute for each student who was killed in the Parkland, Florida shooting — before returning from their classes. Some students even went all the way to the White House to sit on the front lawn with their backs facing the building.
It's pretty inspirational to see so many young people rising up and speaking out for a cause, but as some pointed out, it's more than just that — honestly, it's tragic. Actor Andy Richter tweeted exactly why #NationalWalkoutDay is actually quite a heartbreaking day for our country.
It all started when he was driving past a school and noticed children standing outside.
Andy is far from the only person who's getting emotional about all of the protests today. What happened last month was absolutely horrifying, and seeing the huge response only adds to everything our nation has felt since.
To all you students out there who participated in the walk out: we're so proud of you. You're changing this country one step at a time.


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The Cisco® NCS 6000 Network Convergence System Architecture and Hardware Overview course introduces you to the NCS 6000 features and functions. You will learn the important system architecture concepts on which the NCS 6000 system is based, explore the hardware components, and understand their function in the overall system operation.
The course will cover a general system introduction, a discussion of the line card architecture, switch fabric architecture, how data makes its way through the NCS 6000 system, a review of the new optics utilized by the NCS 6000, and a review of the overall system mechanical components.
The hardware overview is comprised of 9 lessons totaling more than 2 hours of video training.
This is self-paced learning with 180 days duration access.


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21 Best Fall Flower Arrangements
You can select the arrangement you feel is most appropriate for your table by considering all presentations and options you have. Thus, you may select the arrangements in accordance with your budget. How to create artificial flower arrangements isn't much different than how to create fresh floral arrangements although the tools you should use are slightly different. Now here's a dilemma many folks have in regards to pick the best flower arrangement for a particular occasion or simply for a house decoration.
In the majority of cases, individuals decide on the kind of flowers they want by thinking about the preservation element. Flowers are also the most typical means to express love. There are various types of flowers on earth.
Flowers don't need to reside in a vase to be pretty. Get their prints so you may easily shop for the flowers you desire to have in your arch. First you'll need to find out whether the flowers you're thinking about drying are actually fit for drying. Wedding flowers may add extra flavor. If you're looking for the ideal fall flowers for wedding, gerberas are just what you desire.
Flowers may be used alone or in combination with different flowers. They hold a significant importance since a very long time. They have also inspired well-known painters to come up with a host of celebrated paintings. First up, don't forget that you're likely going to require a LOT of flowers. Even one can't secure such flowers a couple of days back, since the freshness is going to be lost in that situation. There are a lot of ways to start getting inexpensive wedding flowers.
Whichever flower you select or how beautifully you arrange them, flowers will seem dull after just a few hours. Traditionally, flowers act as centerpieces, but they are able to add as much as lots of expenses. The flowers are among the most essential design qualities of a wedding. As an overall rule artificial flowers are usually less costly than fresh flowers particularly if you seek out exotic or tropicals. You may also utilize artificial flowers to coincide with the precise color. Robust flowers, like the rose or lavender will get the job done much superior than delicate flowers.
Flowers are among nature's most attractive creations. The flowers are the critical and a fundamental part of human society and all occasions together with celebrations. Naturally, real flowers won't ever be topped by artificial blooms. The majority of the true blue flowers chance to be wild in nature, and for that reason, they don't look fresh for a very long moment.
Just because flowers are expensive does not indicate that you can't have flowers as centerpieces. Flowers shouldn't be fully mature since they have a tendency to eliminate a few of their petals during the drying process, therefore it's much better to use younger flowers. It is almost always better to go for flowers which are seasonally vacant to be able to be used in the bouquet. Flowers are among the most important elements of your wedding day. For instance, certain flowers can be found in an abundant quantity in a specific season, like, fall or spring. Buying out-of-season flowers will often be pricier than buying flowers in season. Make certain that you retain the foliage when you're not combining them with any other flowers.
The post 21 Best Fall Flower Arrangements appeared first on decorisme.


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Integration monitor
Integration monitor is a daily Latvian press digest on ethnic minority and society integration issues. The Monitor reviews the biggest Latvian dailies: Diena, Latvijas Avize, Neatkariga (in Latvian language), Vesti Segodnya (in Russian language). In specific cases other information sources are used. Latvian Centre for Human Rights is not responsible for information published by the media.
Дек. 26, 2015
- 55% of the Latvian residents do not want to see refugees as their neighbours
According to the public opinion survey conducted by the research centre SKDS, 55% of the Latvian residents do not want to see refugees as their neighbours. 53% of respondents do not want to have Muslims, 52% - Roma, 37% - sexual minorities, 31% people of Asian origin, 19% - guest workers, and 18% - dark-skinned people as their neighbours. News agency BNS


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When Juliet {Kiera Knightley} pleads with Mark {Andrew Lincoln} at his doorstep in Love Actually, for video footage from her wedding day, she bribes him with a box of banoffee pie. The moment she uttered the words, "banoffee pie," I knew I wanted to try it. You see, I have an affinity for words and banoffee is one that strikes me. It rolls off the tongue in a playful manner and it's a made up word, stemming from banana and toffee. Cheers to the British for bringing banoffee to our language and dessert to our bellies.
My banoffee moment came when a friend returned from a holiday in Dublin. I was invited over for a Dublinesque dessert….and what to my wondering eyes should appear? A BANOFFEE PIE!!! Ecstatic to finally fulfill my quest of filling my belly full of banoffee, I was most obviously, overjoyed.
For those of you unfamiliar with banoffee pie make some. It is quite good and hardly requires baking, plus bananas are good for you. It's namely a brown-butter-biscuit-base, dulce de leche, bananas, whipped cream and chocolate.
Banoffee Pie
9oz graham crackers
4oz butter, melted, plus extra for greasing {add browned butter for a rich taste}
14oz dulce de leche {Nestle makes a can which can be found in Latin markets called: La Lechera Dulce de Leche} otherwise, use a can of sweetened condensed milk and follow these instructions:
All you need is a can of sweetened condensed milk and a pot of water. Remove the label from the can and add two holes to the top (either with a hammer and nail or a simple can opener) to prevent the cans from exploding. Place in a large pot with water (enough to reach almost the top of the cans). Bring the water to a simmer and cook until that beautiful golden color is achieved. There's no stirring required here, but be sure that you keep adding water to the pot as it has a tendency to evaporate. If you want a soft dulce de leche, cook for three hours; for a harder one it could take up to five.
3 bananas, peeled and sliced
2 tbsp sugar
½ pint whipping cream, whipped until soft peaks form
2 tbsp grated dark chocolate
Place the graham crackers into a food processor and pulse until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Transfer to a mixing bowl and stir in the melted butter, mixing well to combine.
Place the mixture into a lightly greased 8-inch loose-bottomed cake pan and press down into the base and up along the sides. Place in the fridge to chill for 30 minutes.
To make the whipped cream, use a chilled metal bowl. Place the sugar into the mixing bowl and add the whipping cream. Whisk just until the cream reaches stiff peaks.
Spoon the dulce de leche over the biscuit base, and then cover with a layer of sliced bananas. Spoon the whipped cream on top and decorate with grated chocolate.
Slice into wedges and serve.


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Katie's Note: I'm so happy to have Lisa Woodruff from Organize 365 back again this week after last week's "paper clutter reduction" post resonated with so many readers. I trust her professional organizing tips can help you organize your kitchen supplies wherever you are in your real food journey.
Quick and Easy Organizing
You don't need fancy organizers, new cabinets or a professional organizer to make a big difference in your kitchen. Often, simple organizers that you already have around your house will do the job just fine.
Plastic shoe boxes that you can get at dollar stores or for two dollars in any hardware store are great organizers.
#1 A plastic shoe box will contain all of the various sized lids that you have for your plastic, glass or stainless steel containers.
Or remember that other containers might work too that take up just the right amount of space – a circular cottage cheese tub for certain lids, a quart-sized clamshell from strawberries for another, etc. And think free! If it doesn't have to be see-through, a regular cardboard shoebox will do (that's how I just reorganized my lunch packing supplies), and the 1-pound clamshells from spinach are great too.) – Katie
#2 Extra kitchen utensils that you use on a rare basis can be put in a plastic shoe box and stored on the top shelf in one of your cabinets. This will give you more dedicated space in your drawer for more frequently used items. The other items are still within reach, but not in the way.
#3 Plastic shoe boxes are a great way to divide the drawer or shelf and corral snack size chips (or individual bags of trail mix ready to go and small containers of homemade snacks, easy to grab).
#4 And cereal bars (try Healthy Snacks to Go for lots of ideas to take on the run!).
#5 Plastic shoe boxes are a great way to organize decorative sprinkles and toppings, or the supplies you use for natural food coloring…or of course, herbs, essential oils, or supplements, right KSers?" 😉
#6 Plastic shoe boxes can be used to hold your mail pile. Don't forget my tips to organize mail and all paper clutter you might have in your kitchen.
#7 A plastic shoe box of Play-doh is the perfect distraction for a child while you are making dinner. (I've got an excellent recipe for playdough here! -Katie)
#8 Opening bulk purchases like boxes of instant oatmeal packets and putting them into a shoe box will allow those packages to take up less space. It will also give you a visual reminder of when you need to buy more oatmeal. Mini boxes of raisins or other field trip treats are easy to stow away like this as well.
#9 Plastic cups, water bottles, sippy cups, thermoses, stainless steel water bottles and baby bottles are easily corralled in a plastic shoe box.
#10 I like to have a plastic shoe box with each child's name on it in your kitchen. Then, when the area gets too cluttered, I grab the shoe boxes and divide the clutter that I see among the children that I have. Each child can then be given their shoe box and sent to put their items away.
A stack of shoe boxes is also great for mom. By laying the shoe boxes out on the kitchen counter, you can divide overwhelming tasks into smaller piles.
For example, if you need to make cookies for the kids' bake sale, put everything that you bought to make the cookies in one shoe box. In the next shoe box, you might have mail. The following shoe box might have a birthday party gift, the card and the wrapping that you need to have for your child's birthday party this weekend that they've been invited to. And the last shoe box might be full of mail that you need to take to the post office and copies that you need to make on your next errand day.
By taking the time to break all of these activities into shoe boxes, you can grab one at a time, complete the task and put the shoe box away.
I love shoe boxes because they are economical, they stack and they are easy to use!
What about you? How have you used shoe boxes in your kitchen organizing…or anywhere else? Or what other containers around your house can you imagine would straighten out a messy cupboard or drawer?
From Katie – My favorite tip was number two by far – sometimes the simplest ideas feel like a REVELATION, don't they? What's your favorite?
Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post to Life Without Plastic from which I will earn some commission if you make a purchase. See my full disclosure statement here.


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Gypsum Powder Importers
Company Profile
Founded in 2009, we, BGM MARKETING CO. PVT. LTD., are a reputed organization, acknowledged as an importer and traders of Gypsum Board, PVC Tiles, Paint Tiles, Acoustic Tiles, Suspension System and Gypsum Decors. We are also a leading gypsum block and gypsum powder importer & traders in India. All these products are used for the construction purposes. Our products are durable, affordable and reliable. Therefore, they are availed by various builders & developers and civil contractors.
Being the top gypsum powder importer & traders in India, we acquire all the above-named products from the renowned vendors. These vendors have been selected by our procurement team on the basis of their market repute, quality products and flexible price structure. During the procurement, we always make sure that the products are in congruence to customers' requirements. We check that all the products are free from impurities and defects. Each batch of procured products is properly checked by our quality assurance executives. They make sure that the procured products are in compliance to the company specified quality standards. The entire process of procurement and quality testing is carried out efficiently and thus, clients get the finest grade products from our side, making us one of the best gypsum powder importer & traders.
Moreover, we dispatch all the ordered products swiftly at the client's place. Our company also gives a facility of easy payment modes for the buyers' convenience.
Our Team
As the top Branded Gypsum Supplier in Mumbai Maharashtra, We have a team of experienced professionals that is the backbone of our company. Our team members are proficient in their own fields and bring their expertise at the workplace. Our team consists of procurement specialists, quality experts, product delivery assistants and sales representatives. Each of them works diligently to bring forward the best product for the clients and excel their expectations. Through their time-management skills, knowledge and expertise, they carry out the operations efficiently and support the company to expand its business. Their dedication and support has made us India's best gypsum powder importer & traders.


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I'm no wine connoisseur, but over the years I've become quite fond of a nice sweet glass of wine. Even though more than two glasses has me dozing off, wine is my drink of choice and perfect around the holidays. I've always wanted to attend a wine tasting and awaken my palate to different flavors, as I've been drinking the same wine for years! Change is hard!! This past Sunday, thanks to the Boston Bloggers group I had the opportunity to experience some great wine at Dante Restaurant in Cambridge hosted by the folks at Boston based 90+ Cellars wine.
The event was a kick-off to the holidays and highlighted eight 90+ Cellars wines and pairing suggestions. As someone who hasn't ever considered pairing wine with specific foods, I found their tips really helpful and gave me a new perspective on wine! My two favorite wines that I tasted were the smooth Riesling and bubbly Prosecco. As I think about upcoming holiday celebrations their Prosecco is definitely one I'd like to invite to the party!
In addition to the great atmosphere, yummy bites, and great wine I had the opportunity to meet a few people from 90+ Cellars including Brett Vankoski, Vice President and Co-Founder, Jeannie Hannigan, Marketing Manager, and Adjovi Koene, Regional Account Manager. All were so friendly and engaging and helped me better understand why 90+ Cellars wine is so great – in addition to the taste! Buying wine can be overwhelming and the price tags on some can be quite intimidating. 90+ Cellars believes that great wine shouldn't leave your pockets empty – you can have great quality wine at an affordable price! Their motto (which is so fitting) is that their wine has a Saturday night taste with a Tuesday night price! Amazing!!! I don't know about you but with the holidays coming up and expenses with raising a daughter – money is tight. But that doesn't mean I should have to sacrifice some good bubbly, especially around the holidays!
About 90+ Cellars: It's been our goal to seek out, bottle and deliver fine wine that costs you less money. The landscape has changed, but our mission has not. We partner with highly respected wineries around the globe to provide you with wine that will keep more dollars in your pocket and impress the pants off your friends. Great Wine. Anytime.
Oh and did I mention they have a wine club? Wine….delivered to your door? I'm so hooked!! With 56 varieties of wine listed on their site ranging from $12 – $30 there is something for everyone, that won't break the bank! So this holiday season (or anytime) consider choosing 90+ Cellars wine and have some great wine at a great price!
Disclosure: No compensation was received for writing this post. I'm a fan of 90+ Cellars and wanted to share their goodness with my readers!


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In this brave new world of texts and tweets, we have more ways to express ourselves than ever. We can say something serious or silly with a few characters and symbols, all because of the power of the written word.
Despite these new means of communicating, one truth remains: Words only work when they convey your intended message.
faces and LOLs often fill in those ambiguous gaps in casual
correspondence, but what about an end-of-year research paper, a cover
letter, or an opus like your first novel? How do you ensure what you
wrote mirrors what you meant? That your meaning will be as clear to your
recipient as it is to you?
Simple--you use an editor.
the image of your 7th grade English teacher, Crabby McCrabberson, with
her wicked red ink and archaic rules of grammar. She was there to
grade you, but your editor is there to help you and has more important
concerns than dangling participles and split infinitives.
(Yes, those things exist. No, you don't need to know what they are.)
personal, professional or academic, written work benefits from someone else reviewing it before submission: someone unfamiliar with the writing (like a
reader would be) but familiar with how words work (like an editor
should be).
I could be that person for you.


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Lover Under Cover – Into The Night (2014, Escape Music)
- A Fight
- Into The Shadows
- Miracle
- Toy Soldier
- Crushing Stones
- Life Is Easy
- Playboy No 7
- The Game Is On
- Fantasy Man
- Closer To The Truth
- No Place Like Home
Band Lineup:
Mikael Carlsson – (Rain) Bass, Guitars, Keyboards and Backing Vocals
Mikael Erlandsson (Last Autumn's Dream/Salute) – Vocals, Keyboards
Martin Kronlund (Gypsy Rose, Phenomena, Salute) – Guitars
Perra Johnsson (Coldspell) – Drums
Producer: Martin Kronlund
Country: Sweden
Total Time = 45:20
One of the things I love most about running this website for the last 8 years is that I get to discover new bands and new music on a daily basis. Sometimes an album crosses my desk and it completely takes hold of me and captures my complete attention…..Into The Night from Sweden's Lover Under Cover is one of those albums. Lover Under Cover is a name I've heard before but never really investigated. The band is a Swedish melodic rock "supergroup" of sorts with all the members being in well known bands like Coldspell, Last Autumn's Dream, Salute and more but the music put to record is not a bunch of guns for hire playing their respective parts but an actual band rocking it hard and playing flawlessly.
Opening track 'A Fight' kicks the album off in high gear with a quick keyboard intro that rolls straight into some blazing guitar work. Mikael Erlandsson's voice immeadiately commands your attention and he kind of reminds me a bit of Tony Harnell (TNT/Westworld), very melodic sounding and forceful when needed. 'A Fight' is infectious with it's big harmonies on the chorus and I found myself singing along right away. 'Into The Shadows' continues the initial assault with another infectious chorus and plenty of harmonies, the song takes me right back to the '80s when I was growing up when Rock music was an art of perfectly blended musicianship. And the melodic assault doesn't stop because 'Miracle' is high energy powerhouse that reminds me of a combination of Westworld, Treat and Bon Jovi and it's definitely my favorite song on the record. Martin Kronlund has some great solos on this track but the main riff, combined with the keyboards complimenting, really drives the song.
Time to slow it down a little with the album's first ballad, 'Toy Soldiers'. Now I'm listening to the album in the car when I first heard this song and I knew most of the words…..what? Turns out this is a cover of 'Toy Soldiers' by Martika from 1988 and, as a high school teenager glued to MTV back then, I remember that song well. Actually, my wife loves the Martika song. So I'm thrown off a bit by the Martika cover but it's done really well so I can't really fault the band for recording it. I'm not a fan of cover songs on studio albums but this is a really good one. 'Crushing Stones' goes back to the solid melodic rock of the first three songs and I especially like the keyboard line that holds it all together but it all comes down to the guitar for me and I'm really enjoying another great performance that brings a bit of an edge to the track. 'Life Is Easy' is a Bon Jovi sounding song but absolutely better than anything Bon Jovi has released in a decade (Jon take notice!). It's just another great tune, an album favorite for me, another catchy song that immeadiately grabs you but it's a bit more mellow, more mid-tempo, and I like the way the band has mixed it up. 'Playboy No. 7' is another uptempo Hard Rock song and it's good but it sounds a little repetitive of what's played before it.
A second song with a bit of a crunchy edge is 'The Game Is On' and 'Fantasy Man' follows 'Life Is Easy' a little as far as that easy melodic tempo goes. Both are really great songs but 'Fantasy Man' joins 'Miracle' and 'Life Is Easy' as my stand out tracks. Add 'Closer To The Truth' to that list as well because that's another effortless melodic rocker that has me singing along and doing my air-drums. This is another example of an great old school '80s sounding song done perfectly. Ending the record is a cool mid-tempo/ballad style track, 'No Place Like Home', that Jon Bon Jovi wishes he could write (steal!) and, even though it ends Into The Night on a softer note, it's a great song.
Bottom Line:
If your a fan of good melodic Hard Rock with a lot of '80s influences, great vocals, great guitars and sing-a-long lyrics, then Into The Night is definitely for you. The entire sound of the album is excellent, great production by Martin Kronlund, and it sounds like what I remember from my younger days…..an album from a bygone era maybe? This is my first proper album review for 2014 but I've listened to a lot of albums so far this year and Lover Under Cover has captured my listening time more with this new album than other new albums I've acquired so far. It's really that good and, like I mentioned earlier, I love it when an album crosses my desk and surprises me by hooking me in immeadiately. I highly recommend people picking this album up.
Favorite Songs:
'Miracle', 'Life Is Easy', 'Fantasy Man', 'Closer To The Truth'
Lover Under Cover
Escape Music
Buy the CD at Amazon.com
Buy the digital download at Amazon.com
Buy the digital download at iTunes


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I received my dental education from The University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry graduating with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, I also obtained a Bachelor of Health Science honours degree with distinction from McMaster University.
Looking for comfortable, confident and convenient care from dentists in Fort Frances? You've come to the right place. From the minute you walk into our office you will notice a difference at Dr. Wu & Associates We care about you, your family and your friends, and we're here to help you achieve your healthiest, brightest smile.
At Dr. Wu & Associates we know every person's dental needs are unique. That's why we offer a comprehensive selection of treatment options in a comfortable, convenient atmosphere. We're confident we can provide superior dental care that no other dentist in Fort Frances can offer.
We specialize in improving smiles. You can learn more about our smile-enhancing services on our website, including:
We've developed this informational website as an extension of our practice, to serve as a convenient, educational resource for our patients. With just a few clicks, you can find helpful information about our services, credentials and office policies. You can also easily access patient forms or request an appointment with our Fort Frances dentist.
Discover a new dental experience at Dr. Wu & Associates! We look forward to caring for you and your family's dental needs.


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Halloween Treat: Vote for Teletoon's Top 5 Baddies
In honor of Halloween, Canada's TELETOON Retro channel is asking viewers to help the best (worst?) villains of all time for the latest installment of the TELETOON Retro Hall of Fame. Fans can vote for their favorite foes to be inducted as the Top 5 Villains from Monday, October 31 to Thursday, December 1 at www.teletoonretro.com or at facebook.com/teletoonretro. The winning bad guys and gals will be announced December 9, followed by a special programming marathon during the Retro Rewind block, featuring the Top 5, on Sunday, December 11 from 1 to 4 p.m.
TELETOON has narrowed the contenders to 33 ferocious foes, including animation baddies like Azrael (The Smurfs), Dr. Claw (Inspector Gadget), Hexadecimal (ReBoot), Skeletor (He-Man and the Masters of the Universe) and numerous Batman: The Animated Series baddies! A separate list and winners will be selected for French-language Télétoon Rétro. Once fans have cast their votes online, they are entered to win a Super Villain Prize Pack which includes round-trip airfare for four to New York City, three nights' hotel accommodation and $500 spending money plus load of super villain swag!
For more info, visit TeletoonRetro.com.


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As a creative person, involved primarily with the creation of comfortable surroundings for human beings, I was commissioned by John Thompson of GE Medical Systems, when MRI was in its infancy in Canada, to apply my talents to the development of a comfortable MRI suite prototype. Over ten years later, this 'prototype', as well as the methodology through which it is realized, is still evolving, as is the scope to which the same principles apply. Today, we are consulted on a variety of complex situations, where patient contentment-based issues are most likely to be lost in the shuffle of stringent technical logistics.
My big question is: Where does the emotional comfort of the end-user find rightful expression in the building creation process, which is ultimately devoted to health, and healing? My own direct experience, speaking generally, has found that this question is confronted, and accounted for, in the building process – only vicariously. It is sometimes possible to find an inspired team of staff, or management, who have a strong position on the matter, which encourages exploration, but it is generally not mandated. Yet anyone who has spent any time within a hospital environment instinctively recognizes the role that emotional comfort plays in the healing process, both in its presence and, unfortunately, in its absence.
Not only is it imperative to continually remember to put oneself in the 'shoes' of the end recipients of our labours when making decisions related to environment, but also in the 'shoes' of the working staff, who spend their waking hours confronting other people's vulnerabilities, apprehensions and fears daily. Every tiny step toward a more conducive, comfortable and supportive environment for working staff is, in my opinion, ultimately transferred into direct benefit for the patient. There is nothing like a nice room to motivate positive human engagement, all round.
In terms of practical principles, any healing environment needs to engender positive associations. Like it or not the aroma of coffee at the front door brings with it powerful associations of comfort that work on many levels. One useful principle of application could be termed the 'Sensibility of Home'. In the seventies this was construed to mean "make it look like home", which for no other reason than all our homes look different, this was to become a predictable collision course for disaster. The useful part of the principle confronts all the simple stuff that is not represented in the master planning – the anticipation of small needs – coat hooks, places to secure belongings and put on shoes comfortably, a conveniently placed mirror to throw on some lipstick, the list ends only where one ceases to look. Combine this with as much sensual calm as can be afforded, and simple patient flows that can be easily visualized and discerned and the world is a better place already.
|CT Sim/PET Suite at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto.
Photo Credit: jenny Hyctt
A second useful principle to contemplate, which makes an astonishing improvement, is the association of 'Nature' – again in the simplest sense. Surrounded by 'artificial' materials, 'artificial' light, 'artificial' air, it is interesting to observe what associations a simple piece of 'natural' wood can engender in a hospital setting thanks to the last ten years of development in post-catalyzed lacquers. Natural materials, natural light, combined with a full spectrum of environmental colours consistently produces a desirable result, with very simple means.
By way of small example, critically examine a recently completed CT Sim/PET Suite in a basement level at Princess Margaret Hospital, in Toronto, which had the usual demanding schedules and budgets. The setting had absolutely no possibility of natural light, combined with low existing ceiling possibilities. I believe the pictures to be self-explanatory, but one aspect may require some introduction. The clinical management team persevered, through difficult odds, to integrate a small-scale 'Visual Therapy' installation created by nature photographer Joey Fischer, who you might have encountered at the last RSNA [Radiological Society of North America] show in Chicago. While Fischer's work is quite well known in the United States, I believe that the installation at PMH is his first installation north of the 49th parallel. The illuminated image entitled 'Spring' is on axis with the Simulator Table. I am most interested, not in the image itself, as much as the possibility to quietly communicate to the patient the degree to which the 'small needs' have also been considered. Time will tell whether true value is to be derived from installations of this kind.
As with most human endeavours, there is always a 'Python in Paradise'. The creation of comfortable surroundings is not without peril as facility managers faced with the legitimate expressions of inequalities between departments, have no recourse but to resist isolated instances of excellence, and attempt to lower standards in the interest of 'greater harmony'. Personally, I think the clock is ticking, and we need to do all in our power to raise the standard of our collective life, and thereby find the resources and means to achieve our highest aspirations. I choose to start with small things, and I look forward to encountering your efforts in those moments when I least expect them.