text: Installed with Case and Knowledge Management Several types of components are installed with Case and Knowledge Management. Tables installed with Case and Knowledge Management Human Resources Scoped App: Core plugin adds the following tables. Table Description HR Bank Account[sn_hr_core_profile_bank_account] Subject tables (HR services). HR Beneficiary[sn_hr_core_beneficiary] Subject tables (HR services). HR Benefit[sn_hr_core_benefit] Subject tables (HR services). HR Benefit Type[sn_hr_core_benefit_type] Types of benefits. HR Benefit Plan[sn_hr_core_benefit_provider] Providers for benefits. HR Case[sn_hr_core_case] Base table for HR cases. The details of a submitted HR case. HR Condition[sn_hr_core_condition] Details of HR conditions used as filters for any HR table. HR Conditions for Criteria[sn_hr_core_m2m_condition_criteria] Details of HR conditions used as filters for HR Criteria. HR Contact[sn_hr_core_contact] Basic contact information for HR contacts (relating to an HR profile). HR Criteria[sn_hr_core_criteria] Details of HR criteria used to define audiences for HR content. HR Criteria for Links[sn_hr_core_m2m_link_template] M2M between HR links and template lookup. HR Disability Benefit[sn_hr_core_disability_benefit] Subject table (disability benefit). HR Disciplinary Issue Type[sn_hr_core_disciplinary_issue_type] Types of employee performance issues. HR Disciplinary Warning Type[sn_hr_core_disciplinary_warning_type] Types of employee performance warnings. HR Document Acknowledgement[sn_hr_core_document_acknowledgement] Stores document acknowledgement instances. HR Document Template[sn_hr_core_document_template] Stores the PDF templates for services that generate letters. HR Document Type[sn_hr_core_document_type] Details of document type for HR document templates. Employment Verification Letter HR Employee Relations Case[sn_hr_core_case_relations] Details of an employee relations case. HR Health Benefit[sn_hr_core_health_benefit] Subject table (benefit). HR Insurance Benefit[sn_hr_core_insurance_benefit] Subject table (insurance benefits). HR Operations Report[sn_hr_core_op_report] Subject table (reports). HR Operations Report Frequency[sn_hr_core_op_report_frequency] HR operational report frequencies (monthly, weekly, and others). HR Operations Report Type[sn_hr_core_op_report_type] Type of HR report requested. HR Operations System[sn_hr_core_op_system] Operations system for a report (payroll, HR, and others). HR Operations System to Report Type[sn_hr_core_op_system_to_report_type] Type of HR report by system. HR Payroll Case[sn_hr_core_case_payroll] Payroll HR cases. HR PDF Template[sn_hr_core_pdf_template] Details of HR .pdf document templates. Employment verification letters Offer letter Sample education agreementExtends HR Document Template. HR Portal Content[sn_hr_core_link] Details of content that displays on the HR Service Portal. Holiday Calendars Links to information about the company, executive team, product documentation, suggested reading, community, blogs, and more. Videos, tutorials HR Profile[sn_hr_core_profile] Subject table (profile). HR Retirement Benefit[sn_hr_core_retirement_benefit] Subject table (retirement benefit). HR Service[sn_hr_core_service] Details of HR Services offered to employees. User Fields on Case[sn_hr_core_service_approval_option] Allows configuration for approval options for an HR service. HR Service Option[sn_hr_core_service_option] Allows HR service options for: Add User Cannot Cancel flag to HR service. Add Add Manager to Watchlist flag to HR service. Enforces that no record producer can be used for more than one HR service. HR Talent Management Case[sn_hr_core_case_talent_management] Details of a submitted Talent Management case. Candidate offer Employee travel visa request Request background check Request drug screen Work visa transfer request HR Task[sn_hr_core_task] The base table for HR tasks. The details of a task associated with a particular HR case. HR Template[sn_hr_core_template] Details of hr templates used to populate fields automatically for HR cases.Extends Template table [sys_template]. HR Tier Escalation[sn_hr_core_tier_definition] Details of the HR groups used for case escalation. HR Total Rewards Case[sn_hr_core_case_total_rewards] Total Rewards/Benefits based HR cases. HR Visa Category[sn_hr_core_visa_category] Type of travel visa. The base system provides business and work visa categories. HR Workforce Administration Case[sn_hr_core_case_workforce_admin] Details of Workforce Administration case such as personal information change requests, employment verification letter requests, onboarding tasks, and offboarding tasks. HRIT Operations Case[sn_hr_core_case_operations] Details of a submitted Operation and HRIT cases. HR Account Access Request HR Accounts Inquiry HR Portal Support Request Password Reset Report Inquiry Report Request Setup New Hire HR ProfileExtends the HR Case [sn_hr_core_case] table. Bank Account[sn_hr_core_profile_bank_account] Details of bank account for direct deposit. Client Role Rule[sn_hr_core_client_role_rule] Details of mapping conditions to client roles. CMDB HR Case Product Model[cmdb_hr_case_product_model] The product models used for HR case record producers. Compensation[sn_hr_core_compensation] Details on compensation for an employee. Compensation Bonus[sn_hr_core_bonus] Details on the type, percentage, and amount of bonus for an employee.Extends the Compensation [sn_hr_core_compensation] table. Compensation Salary[sn_hr_core_salary] Details of the salary and currency for an employee.Extends Compensation [sn_hr_core_compensation] table. Compensation Stocks[sn_hr_core_stocks] Details on amount, vesting schedule and dates, and quantity of stock for an employee. Direct Deposit[sn_hr_core_direct_deposit] Direct deposit information for an employee. Fulfiller Activity Configuration[sn_hr_le_fulfiller_activity_config] Details on Lifecycle Event Activities assigned and completed by a fulfiller. Fulfiller Activity Configuration Mapping[sn_hr_le_fulfiller_activity_config_mapping] Details on information from Lifecycle Events Case Table passed to another table. Job Profile[sn_hr_core_job_profile] Job profile description. Matching Roles[sn_hr_core_matching_roles] Configures client roles for the HR service portal. PDF Template Mapping [sn_hr_core_pdf_template_mapping] Hold all PDF document data based on generation and mapping. Position[sn_hr_core_position] Job position information. Relationship[sn_hr_core_relationship] The relationship of a beneficiary or who is covered to an employee. Signature Image[signature_image] Contains images of captured signatures. Topic Category[sn_hr_core_topic_category] Details of topic categories used primarily to group common HR services and topic details for reporting purposes. Topic Detail[sn_hr_core_topic_detail] Details of topic details that provide a more granular level of categorization for reporting purposes. Tuition Reimbursement[sn_hr_core_tuition_reimbursement] Subject table (tuition reimbursement) Who is covered[sn_hr_core_who_is_covered] Collects information on people covered by benefits of an employee. Roles installed with Case and Knowledge Management Human Resources Scoped App: Core plugin adds the following roles. Role title [name] Description Contains Roles HR system administrator[sn_hr_core.admin] Full control over all human resources data and can administer territories and skills.User groups can replace this role. sn_hr_core.manager assignment_rule_admin knowledge_manager sn_hr_sp.employee sn_hr_sp.hrsp_employee sn_hr_wday.workday_integration skill_admin template_editor_global catalog_admin approval_admin survey_admin sn_hr_core.content_reader sn_hr_core.content_writer sn_templated_snip.template_snippet_admin HR agent[sn_hr_core.basic] Can create, update, and delete HR cases and follow up on cases they created.User groups can replace this role. document_management_user sn_hr_core.case_writer sn_hr_core.kb_writer sn_hr_core.profile_writer skill_user survey_reader HR case reviewer[sn_hr_core.case_reader] Can read HR cases and follow up on cases they created. sn_hr_core.profile_reader HR case writer[sn_hr_core.case_writer] Can create and update HR cases. sn_hr_core.case_reader sn_templated_snip.template_snippet_reader HR Portal Content Reader[sn_hr_core.content_reader] Can read data from the HR Portal Content [sn_hr_core_link] and HR Criteria [sn_hr_core_criteria] tables. None HR Content Writer[sn_hr_core.content_writer] Can create, edit, update, and delete data from the HR Portal Content [sn_hr_core_link] and HR Criteria [sn_hr_core_criteria] tables. [sn_hr_core.content_reader] HR knowledge article writer[sn_hr_core.kb_writer] Can create and update HR knowledge articles. None HR manager[sn_hr_core.manager] Full control over all HR functions.User groups can replace this role. sn_hr_core.basic sn_hr_core.secure_info writer approver_user catalog catalog_admin skill_admin survey_admin sn_templated_snip.template_snippet_writer HR profile reviewer[sn_hr_core.profile_reader] Can read HR profiles. None HR profile writer[sn_hr_core.profile_writer] Read and write basic HR profile information. sn_hr_core.profile_reader HR secure information reader[sn_hr_core.secure_info_reader] Read all HR case and user information. sn_hr_core.profile_reader HR position specialist[sn_hr_core.secure_info_writer] Can create, update, and delete HR position records.Can create and update HR profiles.Read and write all HR case and user information. sn_hr_core.secure_info_reader sn_hr_core.profile_writer HR Employee Alumni[sn_hr_core.hrsm_alumni] Role assigned when employment status is offboarding or previous employee.For customers that do not use the Employee Service Center. Contingent Employee[sn_hr_core.hrsm_contingent] Role assigned to employee with a fixed term contract.For customers that do not use the Employee Service Center. Contractor[sn_hr_core.hrsm_contractor] Role is assigned when employment status is employed and type temporary.For customers that do not use the Employee Service Center. HR Employee[sn_hr_core.hrsm_employee] Role assigned a regular employee for customers that do not use the Employee Service Center. New Hire[sn_hr_core.hrsm_new_hire] Role assigned when employee is hired.For customers that do not use the Employee Service Center. Workday Integration Role[sn_hr_core.workday_integration] A Workday integration specialist. Has access to the Workday integration module and can set integration properties. Also, has access to the Job Status module that lists Job Trackers. None User groups installed with Case and Knowledge Management Human Resources Scoped App: Core plugin adds the following user groups. User group Description HR Parent to other HR groups. It grants the HR manager role, and its child groups inherit the HR manager role. HR Admin Group members can perform all functions within HR. HR Benefits Group members administer HR benefits. Inherits the HR manager role. HR Employee Relations Group members administer employee relations. HR Investigations Group members investigate HR cases. Inherits the HR manager role. HR Leadership Group members manage HR teams. Inherits the HR manager role. HR Payroll Group members administer HR payroll. Inherits the HR manager role. HR Recruiting Group members perform recruiting and hiring activities. HR Systems Group members grant system access, perform system password resets, create system reports, and provide HR Service Portal HR Tier 1 Group members have wide range of HR skills. HR Tier 2 Group members have specific range of HR skills. HR Tier 3 Group members are experts in specific HR skills. HR VIP Watchlist Members of this group are added to the watchlist of HR cases for VIP users. No roles are granted. Script includes installed with Case and Knowledge Management Human Resources Scoped App: Core adds the following script includes. Script include Description GeneralHRForm Generates employment verification letter from personal information in the HR profile. hr Container for commonly used values. HRBenefitTables HR Benefit table choice HrRoleManagement HRSecurityUtils Contains various utility functions for the Human Resources App Scoped Security Plugin. HRUserAuthentication hr_AssignmentUtil Assigns groups and/or agents to HR cases and tasks hr_Case Wrapper class for HR Case records. hr_CaseAjax Wrapper class for HR Case Ajax requests. hr_CaseHierarchyUtils Utilities for showing HR services based on provided topic deail, topic detail, or COE. hr_CaseUtils Utilities to populate a case from a record producer. hr_Configuration Utilities for getting HR property settings. hr_Constants List of constants used in the State field of the HR case and HR task. hr_CoreUtils Core HR utility functions. hr_CreateProfilesAJAXProcessor Handles creating HR profiles via the Generate HR Profiles module. hr_Criteria Utility for evaluating HR criteria and underlying conditions hr_Filters Filters for groups. hr_Login_Authenticator hr_MySubjectStats hr_Payroll Utilities for payroll functionality. hr_ProducerUtils Utilities for displaying data on catalog and portal. hr_Profile Handles HR profile records. hr_SCConfig Container for commonly used values needed by the service catalog manager plugin. hr_ServicesUtil Utilities for creating HR cases from an HR service. hr_SysUser Handler for HR functionality on sys_user records. hr_Task Wrapper class for HR Task. hr_TemplateUtils Utilities related to applying templates. hr_UserToProfileMigration Helps create HR profiles from the Users table. hr_Utils Generic functionality for the HR application. Client scripts installed with Case and Knowledge Management Human Resources Scoped App: Core adds the following client scripts. Client script Table Description Reset priority on opened_for change HR Case [hr_case] Adjusts HR case priority based on whether the user is a VIP. Auto populate fields HR Case [hr_case] Automatically sets location and department fields in HR cases, based on details from the user associated with that record. Populate profile and assignment group HR Case [hr_case] Populates the Assignment Group and HR profile fields (if the Opened for user has an HR profile) in an HR case. Custom Knowledge Search HR Case [hr_case] Custom knowledge search in the HR case form view. End date must be after start date HR Employment History [hr_employment_history] Validates that the employment end date is not before the employment start date. Enforce unique user HR Profile[hr_profile] Prevents creating a profile when the selected user already has an HR profile. Hide Record Producer variables HR Case [hr_case] Hides record producer variables which would otherwise be displayed in the HR case form view. Highlight VIP employee HR Case [hr_case] Formats an HR case for a VIP user in the HR case list. Populate Category using template HR Case [hr_case] Populates the category based on the selected HR template. Populate fields using sys_user HR Profile[hr_profile] Updates fields in a new HR profile record when an existing user is selected. Populate HR profile onChange HR Case [hr_case] Updates the HR profile fields in an HR case automatically when the Opened for user is changed. Populate Opened for field onChange HR Case [hr_case] Updates the Opened for field when a profile is added to an HR case. Populate template using category HR Case [hr_case] Populates the template on an HR case when a category is changed. Start date must be before end date HR Employment History [hr_employment_history] Validates that the employment start date is not after the employment end date. Field Access [onLoad] hr_profile Sets HR Profile fields to read only if the user does not have the hr_case_writer role. update manager when department changes hr_case When the Department field is updated, set the Manager field if the case is an Onboarding case. Set Category hr_document_template Sets the default value for the Category field to Employment Verification. Clear task on change of user hr_document_acknowledgement If the user in the referenced task is changed, disassociate the document acknowledgement. EnforceFields hr_case Ensures that the form cannot be submitted unless the mandatory fields are completed. Populate Department from Position hr_case If the case is Onboarding, set the Department field when the Position field is updated. Validate Email Address on submit hr_emergency_contact Ensures that the email address is valid when the form is submitted. Make Ack Type mandatory in HR Task. hr_task Make the Acknowledgement type field mandatory when assigned to an Opened for user on the HR case. User field is only writable for hr_admin hr_profile User field on the hr_profile form is read-only for all the users except for hr_admin users. Business rules installed with Case and Knowledge Management Human Resources Scoped App: Core adds the following business rules. Business rule Table Description Assigned#Ready for work (approval off)Ready for approvalReady for work (approval on)#Start work#Cancellation HR Case [hr_case] Invokes the state flow process for HR cases. AcceptAssigned#Cancel cleanupReady for workReassignResume HR caseStart work HR Task [hr_task] Invokes the state flow process for HR tasks. Add categories to scratchpad HR Case [hr_case] Loads the HR case types and associated categories and maps the template to the case type. Add HR Supervisor to watch list HR Case [hr_case] Adds members of the HR VIP Watchlist group to an HR case when the user is a VIP. #Add User Acceptance State HR Case [hr_case] Places an HR case into Waiting for user acceptance state. #Auto-assessment business rule HR Case [hr_case] Triggers an HR survey when the case is closed or canceled. Auto Assign HR task [hr_task] Checks skills, country, and group requirements for task assigned to the HR case agent. If no match, perform same check for the HR case. If no match, check for skills only. #Clear durations HR Case [hr_case] Clears the Duration value on hr_case records when the case is reactivated (when Active changes to true on a record inserted or updated). Close HR task HR task [hr_task] Closes the HR task that was created to request documentation from an employee when the employee replies to the email and attaches the file. Display action required HR Case [hr_case] Displays HR has requested some actions on your part message. Display Ready for Work message HR Case [hr_case] Displays a message if the HR case is in draft state instructing the agent to start work. Display reminding message on HR case HR Case [hr_case] Checks the access level of the current user and displays appropriate information in the HR case. If the admin is impersonating a user, display a message that they are not allowed access. Enforce unique user HR Profile [hr_profile] Ensures that a duplicate HR profile is not entered for a user. Exit survey trigger HR Task [hr_task] Sends a link to the exit survey when the exit survey task state changes to Work in Progress. Notify HR Case owner when all task close HR Task [hr_task] Sends a notification to the HR case assigned-to agent when all HR tasks are complete. Populate case SLAs Task SLA [task_sla] Inserts a Service Level Agreement timer when an HR case is active. Reassignment counter for Case HR Case [hr_case] Counts the number of times the case is reassigned. Remove HR Supervisor from watch list HR Case [hr_case] Removes HR VIP Watchlist group members from an HR case when the user is no longer a VIP. Restrict query HR Case [hr_case] Amends the query used to get HR case records to display in list view. Restrict query HR Task [hr_task] Amends the query used to get HR task records to display in list view. Restrict query Emergency Contact [hr_emergency_contact] Amends the query used to get records to display in list view. Restrict query Employment History [hr_employment_history] Amends the query used to get records to display in list view. Send hr_case events HR Case [hr_case] Adds events to the event queue when records are inserted or updated. Set HR mailto System properties [sys_properties] Sets the email address specified in the Configuration module when the user selects Email HR on the HR Portal. Set user fields HR Case [hr_case] Sets the Opened for value on an hr_case record when the record is inserted or updated. Start HR User Acceptance timer HR Case [hr_case] Starts the timer when an HR case is resolved. The user is notified to accept the resolution and close the case. With no user response, the case is automatically closed when the time ends. #Synchronize fields to hr_profile User [sys_user] Synchronizes fields between associated hr_profile and sys_user records on update of the sys_user record. #Synchronize fields to sys_user HR Profile [hr_profile] Synchronizes fields between associated sys_user and hr_profile records on update of the hr_profile record. Update Awaiting Acceptance Workflow HR Case [sn_hr_core_case] Triggered when a case moves from Awaiting Acceptance state to any non-closing state (like Work In Progress or ready). Update durations HR Case [hr_case] Sets the Duration value on hr_case records when the case becomes inactive (when Active changes to false on record inserted or updated). #Update HR Case percent complete Task [task] Updates the percentage complete for a parent HR case based on the state of child cases and tasks.For example, if there are 10 child tasks under a parent HR case and five are completed, the percentage complete is 50%. Note: This business rule also updates any SLAs associated with the parent HR case. Update hr_case when hr_task changes HR Task [hr_task] Updates Additional comments and Work notes fields on the associated hr_case record when an hr_task record is created or updated. Update name field HR Profile [hr_profile] Updates the Name value on an hr_profile record if the First name or Last name value changes when a record is inserted or updated. #Validate end date is after start date HR Profile [hr_profile] Validates that Employment end date is after Employment start date when any of the two values changes when an hr_profile record is inserted or updated. #Validate opened_for against hr_profile HR Case [hr_case] Updates the Opened for value on hr_case records when State is not Requested and the record is updated. ValidateChanges HR Task [hr_task] Ensures that changes are valid. #Verify Work Notes HR Case [hr_case] Requires that work notes are entered when the HR case state changes. #Verify Work Notes HR Task [hr_task] Requires that work notes are entered when the HR task state changes. Email notifications installed with Case and Knowledge Management Human Resources Scoped App: Core uses the following email notifications. All are based on the HR Case [hr_case] table. Script action Description HR Case opened Sends an email to the caller and the user who enters the case when Active is true on record inserted. HR Case created from email Sends an email to the sender when an HR case is created from an inbound email action. HR Case assigned to me Sends an email to the assigned user when Active is true AND Assigned to is not empty AND Assigned to change AND On record inserted or updated. HR Case assigned to my group Sends an email to the assignment group members when Active is true AND Assigned to is empty AND Assignment group changes AND Assignment group is not empty AND On record inserted or updated. HR Case commented Sends an email to the creator, the caller, the assigned user, and members of the watchlist when Active is true AND Additional Comments changes AND On record updated. HR Case resumed Sends an email to the assigned user when an HR task is closed complete and the HR case is automatically resumed. HR Case changed Sends an email to the sender and the assigned user or group when the state, assignee, assignment group, or work notes are changed in an HR case. HR Case worknotes Sends an email to the assigned user when Active is true AND Assigned to is not empty AND Work notes changes AND On record updated. HR Case closed Sends an email to the creator, the caller, the assigned user, and members of the watchlist when Active is false AND On record updated. HR Company welcome email Sends an email to the HR profile manager on an event fired by the Employee Onboarding HR Workflow. HR Task assigned to me Sends an email to the assigned user when Active is true AND Assigned to is not empty AND Assigned to change AND On record inserted or updated. HR Task assigned to my group Sends an email to the assignment group members when Active is true AND Assigned to is empty AND Assignment group changes AND Assignment group is not empty AND On record inserted or updated. HR Task commented Sends an email to the assigned user, and members of the watchlist when Active is true AND Additional Comments changes AND On record updated. HR Task closed Sends an email to the user assigned to the HR case when Active is false AND On record updated. HR Task changed Sends an email to the event creator and the users defined in event parms 1 and 2 when the hr.task.changed event is fired. HR Employment Verification Sends an email to the third party who requested the employment verification letter. Events installed with Case and Knowledge Management Human Resources Scoped App: Core registers the following events. Event Description hrc.case.resume Triggers when an HR task is closed and the HR case is resumed. hrc.request.changed Triggers when the state, assignee, assignment group, and work notes are changed. hrc.request.email.creation Triggers when a request is inserted from an email. hrc.task.changed Triggers when the state, assignee, assignment group, and work notes are changed. hrc.task.closed Triggers when a task is closed complete, but the parent case is not resumed and one or more tasks are still pending. hr_case.approved Triggers on approval of an HR case. hr_case.assignment_group.changed Triggers when the assignment group is changed. hr_case.commented Triggers when a comment is added to an HR case. hr_case.emp_verification Triggers from a UI action for employment verification to send the employment verification email to the person who requested it. hr_case.inserted Triggers on insertion of an HR case. hr_case.inserted.assigned Triggers on insertion and auto-assignment of an HR case. hr_case.inserted.unassigned Triggers on insertion of an HR case that is not auto-assigned. hr_case.updated Triggers when an HR case is updated. hr_case.welcome_email Triggers on insertion of an onboarding case to send the welcome email for a new employee. HR skills installed with Case and Knowledge Management Human Resources Scoped App: Core adds the following HR skills. HR skill Description Employee Career Provides guidance about the career path for employees. Employee Relations Assists employees with employee relations cases. Employee Transfer Manages process for transferring employees to ensure that all tasks are completed. Exit Interviews Interviews offboarding employees to ensure compliance and collect feedback. Global Mobility Manages processes related to employee visa requests and work visa transfer requests. Hiring Manages processes, such as personnel requisitions, for the hiring of new employees. HR Is contained within all HR skills. HR Benefits Assists employees with benefits cases. HR Policy Assists employees with questions about company policies. HR Systems Manages HR systems, such as payroll, learning management system, and employee database. Leave of Absence Assists employees to schedule leaves of absence, such as maternity leave. Payroll Assists employees with payroll questions and issues. Spanish Language Speaks Spanish, and can act as a translator when needed. Talent Management Manages processes related to visa and visa transfer requests, background checks, and drug screening requests. Time Tracking Assists employees with timecard questions. Vacation/Leave Assists employees with vacation or leave questions. Workday Manages the Workday system and supports integration. HR catalog items installed with HR Service Portal Human Resources Scoped App: Service Portal adds the following HR catalog items. HR catalog item Description 401(k) benefits Submit a question about 401(k) benefits. For example: How much can I contribute? or When do withdrawals start? Employee relations questions Submit a question about employee relations. For example: My office mate talks too loudly on the phone all day long. Employment verification Submit a request to have an employment verification letter generated and sent to a third-party contact, such as a bank loan officer. Variables include the name of the institution, contact name and info, and email address. General Submit a question about benefits that are not covered by the other catalog items. For example: Does the company have a discount program? Medical/dental/vision Submit a question about your health coverages, such as what you to cover your domestic partner. Payroll Submit a question about payroll. For example: How do I change my W2 deductions? Retirement Submit a question about retirement benefits and options, such as how many years must you have with the company to qualify for retirement. Tuition Submit a request for tuition reimbursement following your company guidelines. Variables include the educational institution, class taken, completion date, and the tuition amount.


text:
Holistic massage is just about the nicest thing on the planet.
Better than caramel (because I really hate chocolate!) or cinnamon, better than pizza, better than apple crumble! It's a great way to feel better, look better, treat people better and treat yourself better, too.
It's 100% good for you, with no artificial additives or ingredients.
And all you have to do is lie there on the lovely heated couch!
Holistic massage is not only a very enjoyable and extremely relaxing experience, there are also many health benefits to be gained from this treatment.
Whilst it isn't capable of curing any serious or life-threatening medical disorders – it can provide welcome relief from the symptoms of anxiety, tension, depression, insomnia and stress, as well as back pain, headache, muscle pain and some forms of chronic pain. Many people find that it relieves such digestive disorders as constipation. It is one of the best known antidotes for stress. Reducing stress gives you more energy, improves your outlook on life, and in the process reduces your likelihood of injury and illness.
There are many reasons to get a RELAXOLOGY wellbeing MASSAGE!
Massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other toxins. The various forms of tissue manipulation involved in holistic Swedish and aromatherapy massage enable you to improve your health and re-establish your body's natural equilibrium.
Massage techniques such as Muscle Energy Technique, or Soft Tissue Release can be used to help with specific skeletal muscular problems, as an injury treatment technique.
Holistic massage is most effective when undertaken at least once a month, although weekly or once every two weeks is a more therapeutically useful interval. If I won the lottery I would have it every day!! See Aromatherapy page for information on massage treatments available.
Join in the fun on the Relaxology FACEBOOK page. (Click link on side bar)

subset: commoncrawl


text:
VIENNA, Nov 8 (Reuters) - Austria's speciality steelmaker Voestalpine reported a rise in second-quarter core profit that was largely in line with analyst expectations, driven by robust demand for its products from the automotive and consumer goods industries.
Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) came in at 255.4 million euros ($295.9 million) in the three months through September on revenue of 3.05 billion euros, the group said.
Analysts polled by Reuters had forecast EBIT of 258 million euros and revenue of 3.015 billion. ($1 = 0.8631 euros) (Reporting by Kirsti Knolle; Editing by Amrutha Gayathri)


text: The Palestinian Territories comprise two sections of the former mandate of Palestine: the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. The two small areas are separated from one another by Israel, which controls most of their frontiers. Jordan borders the West Bank on the east, while Egypt lies to the west of the Gaza Strip. The West Bank is a hilly, warm country that enjoys sufficient rainfall to support agriculture, but because the Gaza Strip receives little precipitation due to its location next to the dry Sinai Desert, its economy has traditionally relied on fishing and trade. The territories' only natural border is the Jordan River on the eastern edge of the West Bank. The Palestinian Territories lack a clear demographic core, although the lands have a symbolic heart: the city of Jerusalem, which Palestinians view as their capital. The Palestinian Territories evolved over time. After Israel gained its independence in 1948, Jordan annexed the West Bank while Egypt took control of Gaza. After the Six Day War in 1967, however, Israel occupied both territories. The occupation strengthened Palestinian identity, and members of the community eventually came to regard Gaza and the West Bank as components of a united proto-state. But due to their size and domination by Israel, the Palestinian Territories have not succeeded in achieving state status. The territories, meanwhile, are not only divided geographically but also politically, as the Islamist party Hamas rules Gaza, while the more nationalist and secularist Fatah controls the West Bank. In addition to overcoming the lack of unity, the Palestinian Territories must convince Israel's allies to allow the entity to gain autonomy and eventually achieve independence. Ultimately, internal political divisions and the need to pursue diplomacy to become a sovereign state represent the core geographic challenges for the Palestinian Territories.


text:
Shells have great mechanical properties, including high hardness and high toughness. Shells' great mechanical properties are due to both their nanoscale structure and their combination of inorganic and organic materials.
That an object's materials and structure determine its strength
That a composite material is a mixture of two or more materials
The difference between toughness and hardness
The differences in mechanical properties between dried glue sheets and plaster bricks
That bleach can remove organic material and baking can harm/degrade organic material
Developed for the NISE Network with funding from the National Science Foundation under Award Numbers 0532536 and 0940143. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this product are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Foundation.


text:
During the second semester of SY 2011-2012, my students in Technology and the Law were given the task of discussing (1) whether laptop searches in airports are valid, (2) whether persons/litigants can ask online repositories containing decisions of the Supreme Court to remove information therein as it affects their rights of privacy, and (3) whether publication in gov.ph is sufficient publication under the law. These are their opinions on the subject matters:
(1) Gov.ph and the Official Gazette (10 December 2011), (2) Information in legal posts (3 March 2012), (3) Laptop searches (15 March 2012)
No verifiable post(s): Badillo (3), Cureg (1,2,3) Olano (1,2,3), Sala (1,2,3), Salaum (1), Tolentino (3). Unposted, but submitted: Badillo (1), Buhay (1,2,3), Gonzalbo (2), Oleriana (1,2,3), Tolentino (2)
Batch 11′s contents are mirrored in AUSL Tech & Law blog.
Who do you think is persuasive? on point?
Note: External articles are properties of their respective authors. No endorsement on accuracy or correctness of said articles is being made here. No guarantee that external links will remain active.


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Jeanette A. Tucker, Claesgens, Mark A.
News You Can Use Distributed 10/23/06
Many consumers are under the impression that federal legislation allows them to learn their credit scores. This is one of the myths circulating among the public about obtaining credit histories, according to LSU AgCenter family economics professor Dr. Jeanette Tucker.
What the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACTA) of 2003 does allow is consumers to obtain their credit reports, but not the FICO score that determines whether they are creditworthy to begin with, Tucker explains.
FACTA allows consumers to obtain one free copy of their credit report annually from each of the three major credit reporting agencies. These credit reports may be requested online at http://www.annualcreditreport.com, by phone at 1-877-322-8228 or by mail to the Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, Ga. 30348-5281.
FICO credit scores, on the other hand, must be purchased by consumers. They may be ordered online from My FiCO (www.myfico.com) or any of the three nationwide credit reporting agencies – Equifax (www.Equifax.com), Experian (www.Experian.com) or TransUnion (www.transunion.com). Fees range from $15.00 to $29.95.
The FICO credit score condenses a borrower's credit history into a single number. It is used by lenders to determine the likelihood that credit users will pay their bills. In addition, it helps determine the interest rate they charge for approved loans.
FICO scores were developed by their namesake, Fair Isaac & Co., which originated credit scoring systems in the 1950s.
Tucker says your FICO score is determined by a complex mathematical formula based on your repayment history (35 percent), amount of credit owed (30 percent), length of credit history (15 percent), number of new accounts (10 percent) and type of accounts you own (10 percent).
"The mystifying world of FICO scores is surrounded by myths and realities regarding the determining factors," Tucker says. She examines some other myths.
Myth: The fewer credit accounts, the better. The ideal number of accounts is seven or eight open accounts. Persons with no credit accounts or history cannot be scored. The more important factor is the amount of debt on each credit line.
Myth: Put all of your debt on one account and have other unused accounts. The ratio of outstanding debt to the maximum available on each account is a key determinant. You are actually better off spreading your debt among your accounts.
Myth: Close unused accounts. Maybe so, maybe not. Individuals often close older accounts and use newer accounts with low-interest teaser rates. The length of your credit history, however, is important, and closing older accounts could reduce your credit score.
Myth: Take advantage of new lower-rate debt. It's tempting to pursue low-rate offers. Your FICO score, however, will decrease each time an authorized credit inquiry is made. Some entries, such as those made by credit card companies attempting to "pre-approve" you for credit do not affect your score – neither does checking your own score. However, lender inquiries made because of your legitimate requests for credit do lower your score. Requests will stay on your record for two years.
Myth: Income matters. Income may matter to lenders, but it does not affect your credit score. Research suggests that your actions bear more weight than your income on the likelihood that you'll repay your debt.
Tucker says you can increase your FICO credit score over time by making payments on time, reducing outstanding debt on each account, not applying for too much credit and closing newer, unused accounts.
"Adopt these actions, and watch your credit score improve," the family economist advises.
For local information and educational programs, contact an extension agent in your parish LSU AgCenter office.


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Why is our coffee so good? Because Merdeka Coffee only purchases coffee beans directly from our partners, who are small-holding growers, rather than going through the brokerage system.
Through Merdeka Coffee's network of Antipodean Cafes, we'd served over 1,000,000 million cups as at April this year... mainly to fussy expatriates. We reckon that if our coffee survives the tastebuds of our demanding patrons, the coffee must be pretty good!
Below are some of the speciality coffee beans available through Merdeka Coffee:-
Aceh Arabica
Bali Kintamani Arabica
Bukit Sentul Breakfast Blend
Espresso Blend
Espresso Blend - Dark Roast
Espresso Blend - Traditional


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Jamie // Downtown Orange Lookbook
I have a feeling you will be seeing a lot more of this girl on my website!
Jamie has a fierce heart and a fierce style. We decided to collab and do a two-outfit shoot in Downtown Orange:
Downtown Orange always surprises me with its little alleys and unique walls! I've probably been to the Circle at least a dozen times and never saw this cute little bench until this day!
Jamie then changed into her chic outfit and we found this cool shop that had vintage newspaper-designed walls! I love the way it matched her outfit.
I loved the bright lighting in these following pictures. It was such a beautiful day!
A pop of red to contrast her black and white outfit – I'm a fan.
And, of course, I will always be a sucker for brick walls <3
Here are some collages I made for my Facebook Page:
Finally, check out Jamie's own fashion/photography blog here!
Thanks for reading, and have a lovely week, friends!!
xx, Kelsey.


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Members Sharpen Teaching Skills and Discuss Research from Professors and Graduate Students
BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University recently hosted approximately 70 professors and graduate students in religion for the annual meeting of the National Association of Baptist Professors of Religion (NABPR). This was the University's second time hosting the event. Dr. Steven R. Harmon, associate professor of historical theology in the GWU School of Divinity, is NABPR vice president and president-elect.
"This year's meeting at Gardner-Webb was the 38th annual meeting of the NABPR," Harmon shared. "The gathering provides participants additional opportunities to present their scholarship and receive feedback on it, as well as to address pedagogical issues in religious studies and to communicate about other common concerns in our work as Baptist professors of religion."
While most members teach or study at Baptist-affiliated schools, colleges, and seminaries, the NABPR website says they also come from a wide range of church-related and state-supported schools in the United States, Canada, and abroad.
The NABPR members enjoyed three days of compelling conversation at Gardner-Webb, including presentations by W.H. Bellinger Jr. and GWU alumnus Scott C. Ryan of Baylor University (Texas), David M. Moffitt of the University of St. Andrews (Scotland), and Amy Stumpf of California Baptist University (Riverside). The featured speaker at the opening dinner for the meeting was Dr. Joseph Moore, associate professor of history, chair of the Department of Social Sciences, and special assistant to the provost for Academic Enhancement at Gardner-Webb. Moore spoke on "The Covenanters' Challenge to 'Christian America,'" the topic of his book "Founding Sins: How a Group of Antislavery Radicals Fought to Put Christ into the Constitution" (Oxford University Press, 2015).
The most important parts of the conference, though, were the breakout sessions in which dozens of professors and graduate students from nearly 20 schools presented new research. Presenters included Harmon and Dr. Scott Shauf, GWU chair of the Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy. Dr. Gerald Keown and Dr. Jim McConnell from the GWU School of Divinity served as presiders for breakout sessions. Gardner-Webb divinity students, Zach Dey and Mariah Richardson, presented research in the student category.
Located in the North Carolina foothills, Gardner-Webb University is a private, Christian, liberal arts university that prepares students to become critical thinkers, effective leaders and compassionate servants in the global community. Emphasizing a strong student-centered experience and rigorous academics, Gardner-Webb ignites learning and service opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.


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Product Description
The Lazy Spa Miami is the smallest inflatable hot tub in Bestway's range, making it ideal for individuals, couples or simply those with smaller gardens. Measuring just 180cm in width and 65cm in height, this tub can fit into the small nooks and crannies of your outdoor areas, whilst still comfortably accommodating 2 people. Plus, with a host of exciting features and exceptional build quality, this offering from Bestway is a great choice for those looking for smaller tub that still has all of the benefits of a larger, more expensive model.
Click here for more information and to buy on Amazon.co.uk.
The Lay-Z-Spa Miami inflatable hot tub has been specifically designed for smaller outdoor spaces, which is far more common in the UK due to the high cost of land. For most of us, the option of purchasing a large hot tub that can hold a big group of people in one go is simply not practical, which is why Bestway have manufactured a scaled down version of their popular Lay-Z-Spa range. Now, couples and individuals who are lacking in space, can still enoy the relaxation and thereputic benefits of a hot tub at home.
Bestway have recommended that the Miami can hold 2-4 people but we found that you can really only have two fully grown adults in it at one time, if you want to have enough space to stretch out and relax properly. However, if you are a couple with one or two young children, there should be just enough space to accommodate everybody without feeling too cramped.
Remember, you can setup your inflatable hot tub on pretty much any surface as long as it is flat and level, including garden patios, decking, grass and even just plain old dirt. The compact size of the Lay-Z-Spa Miami means that you can make use of those ignored and underused areas of your garden, like never before.
Massage Jet System
Now we can start getting into the real meat of the product here, which is the incredible massage system that has been built around the entire perimeter of the tub. Incorporating an impressive 81 all-surrounding air jets, this system creates a highly relaxing massage experience that causes those aches and pains to simply slip away. It is worth noting that the pure power of this system rivals most of the more expensive, static hot tubs on the market today. So if you are after an intense theraputic massage after a long day at work, these jets will do just that. Furthermore, because there are such a large number of jets, you will get the same experience no matter where you are sitting, so you won't have to seek out the best seat in order to get the best experience.
This inflatable hot tub has a brand new rapid heating system built right into the pump, which heats the water up to an enjoyable temperature of 40 degrees celcius much quicker than traditional inflatable tubs, which means that you spend less time waiting for your relaxing soak. As an added bonus, the manufacturer have designed a timer control heater unit too, which lets you control when you want the Miami to start heating up. This means that you can set it to start warming when you are at work or away from the house, ready to be used as soon as you return. Innovative and practical features like this really set modern tubs, such as the Miami, apart from the older models.
When we tested this tub it took 14 hours to heat up fully and lost approximately 2 degrees per hour. We recommend you set the timer to heat it up over night, if you want to go for a soak in the morning, or in the morning if you plan on using it in the evening.
When it comes to setting up an inflatable hot tub such as the Lay-Z-Spa Miami, it really couldn't be any easier. In fact, one of the main benefits of an inflatable tub vs a traditional, fixed tub is the fact that it takes next to no time to get it up and running. The first thing to do is to find a flat and level surface that is big enough to accomodate the size of the tub. Remember, because inflatable tubs don't require any plumbing, all you need to do is to plug it into a standard wall socket (an extension lead may be required at this point) to inflate it fully, which should only take a few minutes (you don't need an extra pump as the pump heater will do this).
One you have inflated the tub, you can start filling it with water, using a standard garden hose, which should take approximately 15 minutes. There is a setup DVD inluded in the box which has detailed instructions on how to get the tub up and running, which are comprehensive and very easy to follow. Absolutely no previous experience or tools are required to install the Miami.
A digital control panel lets you easily control the temperature, as well as the massage system and water filtration.
The fact that this tub is so easy to setup means that it is highly portable, giving you the option to deflate, pack away and transport to a holiday home, relatives house or friends place with ease.
The Miami has an inflatable lid that sits on top of the product whilst not in use which, as well as helping to control heat loss, also prevents debris from falling in to the water. Furthermore, fastening tiles help ensure that animals or small children don't find their way into the water accidentally. This really provides peace of mind to those with young children but it should in no circumstances be used as a replacement for adult supervision.
Build Quality
The Lay-Z-Spa Miami is made up of 48 I-Beam constructed inner walls, which create a very strong and sturdy frame. Plus, the rayon coated outer walls provide additional structural stability, whilst maintaining a smooth and comfortable surface to the touch. We found this material to be very tough and consider it unlikely to be easily damaged or punctured. However, just in case you do spring a leak, there is a puncture repair kit included that will patch it up, with little effort.
The Lay-Z-Spa Miami is the smallest tub in highly popular Lay-Z-Spa range, offering all of the innovative features and benefits of a modern inflatable hot tub, in a smaller and more practical size. Ideal for those with compact gardens, this inflatable hot tub will provide years of relaxing and theraputic soaks, without the expensive price tag.


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Wood-Look Sectional Garage Doors
Everyone loves the elegant look of natural wood. It offers an air of beauty and sophistication, an irresistible aesthetic for any home.
While, to some, choosing a garage door may feel like a tedious and unimportant task, we view this aspect of creating your home's external appearance as the essential decision it is. Your garage door is a significant contributing factor to your home's outward appearance. How does it complement the rest of your home's design and aesthetic scheme? How does it contribute to your curb appeal? We believe that the decision of which garage door to invest in can transform the external look of your home. That's why, from modern to traditional house designs, we recommend wood look garage doors.
Gryphon Wood-Look Doors have a realistic Wood-grain Finish so natural looking you will think its real Wood (without all of the maintenance hassles).
Timba Grain Wood Look Doors
Our Timba Grain Wood Look Doors are available in 2 standard shades:
DecoWood® Colour Range:
Our Wood Look Garage Doors are made using the highest quality materials and have Gryphons Exclusive 12 year structural warranty.
Only our sectional garage doors are available in wood-look, have a look at all our sectional doors designs here.
Roller Doors are only available in standard Colorbond Colours.
Versatility for Any Home
Regardless of the type of home you have, a wood look garage door will blend in seamlessly and beautifully with the appearance of your house. Whether your home embodies a modern look by incorporating the latest and greatest of home design, or if its look summons images of simpler times with its traditional aesthetic, the rich and welcoming hues of wood look garage doors will not go amiss. The natural wood look can find its place in any home.
The versatility does not end there, however. Wood look doors come in a variety of hues and colours. With the darker shade of Caoba to the lighter shade of Classic Cedar, you can find a look that gives your home the upgrade it deserves. From the rich, darker wood tones to the lighter look, we have just what your home needs.
Get the look, not the hassle
Wood-look garage doors are actually made of reinforced steel imitating the look of timber. Not all wood looks are equal though. Our wood look garage doors are manufactured with high quality and reinforced steel and get a 3D finish allowing for an uncanny grain look and feel. To top it off, their powder coating has been designed to sustain the Australian weather, rain or shine.
To sum it up this solution will get you the natural look, grain, and feel of wood while being a more secure and low maintenance solution than a real wooden garage door.
A Look You Can't Match
Our wood look garage doors blend in beautifully with your home's existing aesthetic while providing an authentic and warm appearance to the atmosphere. Few things are more inviting than the visual look of wood doors. Their rich and welcoming hues are the perfect blend of modernity and elegance, adding an interesting and stunning element to absolutely any home.
With wood-look doors, you can have the best of both worlds. Not only is this look incredibly versatile and ideal to complement both modern and traditional homes alike, but the end product is also simply gorgeous. The rich and warm appearance is the perfect way to transform a house, into a home. For a welcoming vibe you wouldn't mind coming home to every single day, call us about getting your wood look garage doors installed now!
Get Your Free Measure and Quote Today!
Are you ready to see what a difference a wood-look garage door can make in improving your home? We don't blame you. To get started in getting your wood look garage door installed and availing of all the benefits that come with having one, get in touch with us today. We cover Peth and Melbourne and would be happy to come to you for a site visit.
The free measure and quote we offer for your home is the perfect opportunity to get an expert opinion on the colour and wood-look you'd ultimately like to go for to make your home look its best—or simply to share your ideas of what you have in mind. Based on the type of wood-look garage door you decide to go with and the size of the garage it's going in, we'll be able to give you an accurate quote for getting your garage door installed in no time at all!


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CALL FOR PAPERS – submission details changed!
CSERC '12, the 2nd Computer Science Education Research Conference,
Wroclaw, Poland, September 9 – 12, 2012,
Hosted by FedCSIS, the 2012 Federated Conference on Computer Science and Information Systems
Computer Science Education Research Conference (CSERC'2012) aims at creating a platform for researchers in the field of computer science education. Over the years it has become clear that there is a need for more fundamental knowledge about and input into computer science education. To contribute to this, last year CSERC'2011 has been organized in Heerlen, Netherlands, annex to a Dutch Conference for Computer Science Teachers, NIOC'11. Like CSERC'2011, CSERC'2012 is intended to be in cooperation with ACM's Special Interest Group on Computer Science Education (SIGCSE, pending approval). This year CSERC will be hosted by FedCSIS 2012.
Themes of CSERC are:
• designing a Computer Science curriculum
• didactics and teaching methods for Computer Science subjects
• development of professional competencies in Computer Science
• tools and instruments supporting Computer Science Education
• field studies in Computer Science Education
• cultural and regional differences in Computer Science Education
• convergence and divergence in Computer Science bachelor and master Education
• vocational and professional Computer Science Education
Paper Submission and Publication
• Authors should submit draft papers (as LateX, PDF or MSWord file). Style templates are available at http://www.acm.org/publications/submissions .
• The total length of a draft paper should not exceed 8 pages.
• Submitted draft papers will be refereed on the basis of their scientific merit and relevance to the conference.
• Accepted draft papers will be published as "Preprints of the Computer Science Education Research Conference." They will be made available to the FedCSIS participants, but will not be included in the IEEE DL.
• Authors of accepted papers will be invited to produce an extended paper (between 8 and 12 pages), which takes into account the discussions that were held during the conference. These extended papers will be published in the ACM Digital library (http://dl.acm.org/).
• Organizers reserve right to move accepted papers between FedCSIS events.
Important Dates
• Paper submission: March 15 - April 22, 2012
• Author notification: June 17, 2012
• Final submission and registration: July 8, 2012
• Conference date: September 9-12, 2012
Conference Chairs
• Gerrit C. van der Veer, Open University, The Netherlands
• Marcin Sikorski, Gdansk University of Technology, Poland
Program Committee Chairs
• Peter Sloep, Open University, The Netherlands
• Marko Van Eekelen, Open University and Radboud University, The Netherlands
Event Chair
• Evert van de Vrie, Open University, The Netherlands
To unsubscribe, send an empty email to
mailto:[log in to unmask]
For further details of CHI lists see http://listserv.acm.org


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I'm going to stay up all night with Daisy!
Daniela, 8
Eduardo couldn't hold back tears as he handed gifts to his daughter, Daniela, on her 8th birthday – her wish day. It was one year ago today that she was diagnosed on her 7th birthday.
That first month was the hardest. Her hair fell out when they started doing treatment and that was the worst. Her dad, Eduardo, said a part of him felt guilty, wondering what did he do and how did she get this. Daniela received daily treatment for six months. Now, she goes in for chemotherapy and blood draws once a month. Every three months, Daniela is given anesthesia and then treated with chemo drugs directly into her spine. That's the one that bothers her. She's afraid of it. But she's doing so much better. Each time they go in, she's doing a little better and getting healthier.
On her wish day Daniela, who attends Hathaway Elementary School in Oxnard, was out on a walk with her aunt and uncle as the rest of her family prepared her birthday surprise. Daniela knew relatives were coming over to join her family, including her three brothers, Eddie, 14, Jesus, 11, and Manuel, 4. What she didn't know was that Make-A-Wish® Tri-Counties would be there to grant a wish she made a few months ago.
Cherie and Leo Maciel, who are Wish Granters, arrived with Daisy, a 4-month-old Yorkshire terrier puppy Daniela had asked for. "I'm just so surprised right now," Daniela said when she got Daisy, showering her with hugs and kisses. "I wasn't expecting to get her today. I'm so excited." As Daniela sat on the couch with the puppy, her brother Manuel brought her more gifts, most of them various supplies for the dog. "This one's for mom, though," said Cherie, handing mom a large bottle of odor and stain remover. "Trust me. You'll want that."
In addition to bringing Daisy, the Maciels brought several months of puppy food and treats, a bed, outfits for the dog to wear, a book about Yorkshire terriers, a leash, food and water bowls, and other items. The wish also included vaccinations and having Daisy spayed as well as training.
"I'm going to stay up all night with Daisy," said Daniela. "My mom had two dogs before I was born, but this is my first one. It's the best birthday I've ever had. I almost cried." Leo noted that you couldn't ask for anything better. "Look at the smile on her face," he said. "To see her like this is just remarkable." Eduardo added, "I'm just so blessed to have my daughter here."
Volunteer Cherie introduces Daniela to Daisy for the first timePhoto: Jeff Shewmon
Daniela couldn't believe her wish was coming true!Photo: Jeff Shewmon
It was love at first sight for Daniela and DaisyPhoto: Jeff Shewmon
Look at that smile on her face. To see her like this is just remarkable. I'm so blessed to have my daughter here.
Share this quote
Eduardo, Daniela's dad
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Ventura County
Duchenne's muscular dystrophy
I wish to go on a Disney Cruise
I wish to have my own guitar
I wish to drive a train.
Help Wish kids take flight.
Give your air miles today!
Stay in Touch!
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Leonard Allen Goldberg, of Rancho Mirage California, was named a respondent in a Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) complaint alleging that he caused over $123,600 in losses to five customers while making over $77,900 for himself and his employing firms, J.P. Turner & Company, LLP and Newport Coast Securities, Inc.
According to FINRA's complaint, Mr. Goldberg allegedly used discretion without the required written authorization to effect 300 mutual fund and exchange traded fund (ETF) transactions to the detriment of his customers. Additionally, the complaint alleges that Mr. Goldberg used that discretion to effect fraudulent and unsuitable short-term switches of Class A mutual funds in the same 5 customers' accounts in order to generate commissions for himself. These mutual fund switches and short-term trading resulted in repeated fees and charges to his customers. Continue Reading


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Although I'm not a piscivore, I really love looking at the cans that tinned fish comes in. The colours, the writing, the pictures of the fish - taking photos of them has often been known to slow down my grocery shopping.
I think it'd make great fabric, don't you?
Monday, June 20, 2011
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The Restoration Council of Shan State/Shan State Army (RCSS/SSA) celebrated Shan National Day, on 7 February, as they always do, with a huge military parade at their mountain base of Loi Tai Leng.
This year was a special year, because it marked 70 years since the original signing of the Panglong Agreement on 12 February 1947 by General Aung San for the government and representatives of the Shan, Kachin and Chin ethnic groups in the southern Shan State town of Panglong.
This year also marked the 20th anniversary of the formation of the RCSS/SSA in 1997 when they split from Khun Sa's Mong Tai Army after it surrendered to the Myanmar Government in 1996.
The festivities were also due to continue until 8 February because that day was the 60th birthday of the RCSS/SSA chairman and commander-in-chief, Lieutenant General Yawd Serk.
Loi Tai Leng is a permanent RCSS/SSA military base built on several mountain ridges just across the Thai-Myanmar border from Bang Mapha in Mae Hong Son province, northern Thailand. It has evolved into a small town with a school, a hospital a mini-mart and various other shops, though it is still clearly a military base and one of the central points is a large parade ground with a huge stage at one end.
It lies about 35km off the main road from Pai to Mae Hong Son Town. The road to the camp starts off paved, but as it climbs it deteriorates into a dusty, bumpy unmade road full of potholes, which is almost impossible to navigate without a four-wheel drive vehicle.
There are three Thai Army checkpoints along the road before you reach the final checkpoint at the border. Normally the Thai army restrict access to Loi Tai Leng, but for Shan National Day they were letting all vehicles through the checkpoints, including the final one into Myanmar.
After passing the Thai checkpoint you reach a checkpoint on the Myanmar side of the border. Rather than being manned by Myanmar Army soldiers it is manned by RCSS/SSA troops, because this small part of Myanmar is completely under their control. Once past there you are in Loi Tai Leng, it is the closest you could be to Thailand without actually being in Thailand.
People started arriving for the Shan National Day celebrations on 6 February. Most were Shan people from Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, and other parts of northern Thailand.
By the evening much of the base resembled a large, busy country fair. Yellow green and red Shan flags were flying everywhere and people dressed in traditional Shan clothes and soldiers wandered around enjoying themselves. Tarpaulin stalls had been erected all along the roadsides selling Shan clothes, souvenir Tee shirts, food and alcohol. There were also various fairground stalls where you could win prizes, usually more alcohol.
On the parade ground, there was an evening meal and show for visiting dignitaries and senior RCSS/SSA officers.
These included attendees from other ethnic armed organisations including General Saw Mutu Say Poe from the Karen National Union (KNU) and representatives from the All Burma Student Democratic Front (ABSDF), the Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP) and the Chin National Front (CNF).For the first time amongst the visiting dignitaries there were also western staff from embassies in Yangon.
These included the Swiss Ambassador, the New Zealand Ambassador and staff from the U.S. and Norwegian embassies. This was the first time foreign embassy staff had ever attended the RCSS/SSA Shan National Day celebrations, though RCSS/SSA representatives, including Lt. Gen. Yawd Serk have, at the invitation of the Swiss Government, already visited Geneva several times since the group signed the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) in October 2015.
At about 7.15am the next morning troops started massing at one end of the camp. They included a band all dressed in pristine white and female soldiers in fatigues.
The band and some of the soldiers, in particular the girls, looked far too young to be soldiers, but an RCSS/SSA official explained that the band was actually the school band and that some of those on parade were still at school.
He explained that Loi Tai Leng is where the RCSS/SSA train their soldiers. All soldiers pass through the camp and receive between nine months and a year's training. The students at the school also receive military training whilst they are studying so that they require less training than raw recruits, but they do not get sent out from the camp until they are at least eighteen years old. Then, when they graduate and become soldiers they earn the princely sum of 480 baht (approximately $13.70) a month.
The rest of the soldiers on parade were made up of soldiers still in training and recent graduates of military training.
After about an hour the soldiers, led by the band marched the half kilometre through the streets to the parade ground. Rather than playing a sombre military number the band repeatedly played YMCA, a very strange and incongruous choice for a military parade, though it lent a jovial air to the proceedings.
At the parade ground Yod Serk and the other dignitaries sat on the stage awaiting the arrival of the soldiers. Before the soldiers paraded there were some demonstrations.
First were the special forces who jogged onto the parade ground with black painted faces and split off into pairs and took it in turns to attempt to use knives and guns to attack their partners who then disarmed them.
This was followed by a martial arts display by students. Finally, some potted bushes were laid out on the parade ground and tended to by civilian 'farmers' who were rapidly captured and abused by armed masked men. Fortunately, the RCSS/SSA came to the rescue. To the sound of a helicopter over the sound system the troops simulated landing from a hovering helicopter by abseiling down the tower at the back of the parade ground before launching a daring rescue of the captured farmers. Clearly the choreographers had used artistic licence or there had been some wishful thinking because at present the RCSS/SSA (or any other Myanmar ethnic armed organisation) do not actually possess any helicopters.
After the demonstrations, the parade ground filled with soldiers who were received by a saluting Yod Serk. There then followed about two and a half hours of speeches by Yawd Serk, other RCSS/SSA officials and the visiting dignitaries from the other ethnic organisations. As the sun rose in the sky and the temperatures soared all the troops bravely and patiently stood on the parade ground.
Unlike previous years the troops on the parade ground were unarmed. The reason for this was not completely clear, it may have been to make the celebrations appear to be less of a show of military might and more of a cultural celebration now that the RCSS/SSA have signed the NCA. It may also have been to reassure the visitors from the embassies that they are not a violent organisation looking for conflict.
In the afternoon Yod Serk gave a press conference in front of the backdrop of Loi Tai Leng. Unsurprisingly for such a ceremonial day he made no great or surprising revelations and skirted round any potentially awkward questions.
He re-iterated the RCSS/SSA's support for the peace process and said he thought it would succeed, but that it would likely take time, comparing its progress to that of an elephant walking through the jungle which goes slowly but manages to push aside all obstacles in its path.
He said that so far the National League for Democracy-led government had only really achieved five per cent of what it needs to achieve. He thought this was not good enough and for the RCSS/SSA to continue supporting the NLD they would have to achieve at least 50 percent of their aims, but he is prepared to give them four more years and believes that by then they will have achieved 50 percent of what they need to achieve.
When questioned about the Mongton Dam and other dam projects in Shan State he said that they would consult with the locals and that if the locals did not want the dams or if the dams did not benefit them they would refuse to allow the government to go ahead and would prevent them from being built, but he did not elaborate on how exactly they would prevent the dams from going ahead and what effect such resistance may have on the peace process.
When asked about the fighting between the RCSS/SSA and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) in northern Shan State he said it had started as a result of misunderstandings and that he thought it would eventually be resolved, though he also claimed that the RCSS/SSA were prepared to enter into talks with the TNLA but the TNLA did not want to do so.
Several times he made the point that his organisation would just ask the Shan people what they wanted and would follow their will, serve them and help them to achieve what they wanted.
As night fell on Doi Tai Leng various Shan entertainers took to the stage to entertain the visitors and soldiers.
This year's Shan National Day celebrations seemed less overtly militaristic than previous ones. Rather than an armed group serving notice to the government that they were ready and capable to take them on militarily this seemed to be more aimed at the Shan people. It felt more like a Shan cultural event than a military parade.
The Restoration Council of Shan State/Shan State Army (RCSS/SSA) celebrated Shan National Day, on 7 February, as they always do, with a huge military parade at their mountain base of Loi Tai Leng.


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My colleague Nancy Beavan as been working for some time now at the Cardamom Mountains in western Cambodia, investigating a series of jar burial sites associated with a little-known culture who were living contemporaneously with Angkor. This news video from VOA Khmer is an overview of the project and the latest finds.
Ancient Cambodians Used Jars to Keep the Remains of the Dead
VOA Khmer, 02 March 2015
Video is in Khmer, but you can still understand what's going on without knowing the language.


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I was so amazed that I was actually going to be able to putter in my craft studio that I was glued to the threshold.
Finally I became moving forward and I took tentative steps to my desk chair.
I cannot even tell you how awesome it was to even just sit at my desk. Not to mention the simple act of moving craft items about here and there. In my head I pictured myself as a pirate letting tons of gold coins falling between my fingers into a pile…lol. Yes, I know I'm a dork…lol My finished product was simple, but I like the way it turned out.


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Alright, flights are booked and I think it's time to share the news properly:
Yeah… What is that, you say? Well, it's only the biggest and longest-running lindy hop camp in the world. Take this in: 5 weeks of (pretty much) 24/7 dancing, with thousands of other dancers of all levels from around the world, with amazing, world-class instructors, huge parties with live bands and DJs, crazy themed dress-ups… Watch the intro vid for the 2015 event here:
There's no way we could have afforded to go on this camp. We have been super fortunate to have been awarded an ambassador scholarship by the Frankie Manning Foundation. Frankie was one of the dancers from the original swing era (1930s) and was considered by many to be the father of lindy hop.
The mission of the Frankie Manning Foundation is to carry on the work and the spirit of Frankie Manning in spreading the joy of Lindy Hop, danced to big band swing music, throughout the world.
With the help of generous donors, the foundation works to help dancers from remote, fledgling scenes get to the big dance camps – thereby spreading the lindy hop far and wide. Luckily we ticked some of the right boxes, being lindy-obssessed and in an up-and-coming scene far from the rest of the swing world. The scholarship covers two weeks of classes plus one week's party pass, and we'll be volunteering for one week, in exchange for another week of classes.
We can't wait to go, and also to come back and share what we learnt with our lindy buddies here. We leave Cape Town on the 24th of June, and we'll spend an extra couple of weeks visiting friends and family in Europe. We'll be posting updates in case you want to follow them!


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Twitter integration is everywhere in Mountain Lion. For example, you can tweet right from Notification Center or share links from Safari with just a couple of clicks.
One neat feature that I like a lot, though, is how you can switch out your Twitter profile image right from Photo Booth. To do so, first go to System Preferences > Mail, Contacts & Calendars to set up your Twitter account. It's easy to do, but you can follow along with TMO's Jeff Gamet through his handy how-to if you'd like. Also, after your Twitter account is configured, you should walk through your available options for it in System Preferences > Notifications to decide how you want to be informed when you get mentions or direct messages.
OK, so you're ready! Now open Photo Booth and take a pretty picture if you're capable of doing so. Or be like me and stick out your tongue and put your fingers up your nose. Then select your winning photo, click on the small arrow on the right side of the window, and choose Change Twitter Profile Picture.
That's it! You'll hear a friendly little bird sound, and your task is complete. While you're there, though, make sure you note some of the other new fancy Mountain Lion options, such as sharing to Flickr or sending an image through AirDrop.
This is really useful for all of your photo-sharing needs, especially if you spend a large portion of your working hours just making silly faces into your Mac's camera and then sending the pictures to your friends.
It's possible that I need a real job.


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Hey mamas, payback's a bitch! You know all those mortifying pics and videos that we have taken of our kids bathing, running around naked, or looking painfully awkward before going to their first school dance? Well, that's nothing compared to what they can expose about us. Case in point: the YouTube video a teen recently posted of his mom sleepwalking.
Doesn't sound so bad, you say. Well, it wouldn't have been if she was actually just walking. Already seen by more than 1.1 million people, her behavior in the video is just plain bizarre -- and totally hilarious. Watch and be leery of what your darling sons and daughters may have in store for you!
In one minute, this pink-pajama clad mom roams the house, rambling on incoherently about some special code she needs to open a tomato cage (whatever that is). Though that is just the beginning of the hijinks. As her son asks her questions, she stares blankly ahead and starts doing a little jig Gangnam style, twirling around and bouncing her shoulders. Never knew something could be so weird, spooky, and sidesplitting all at the same time?
More from The Stir: Mom Shouldn't Have Posted Teen's Embarrassing 'Wisdom Teeth' Video Online (VIDEO)
Check out mama's moves below:
Her son also posted a video of her reaction to seeing the clip on the web. Was she embarrassed? Wouldn't you be. She's a really good sport though. "Come on, this is not right," says the mortified mom. As she watch, she sat slack-jawed, covered her face, cringed, but ultimately laughed.
See her shocked reaction to the sleepwalking episode:
Do your kids have embarrassing video of you?


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Dear IWAB Readers,
Welcome to BN Celebration on influence. From Cynthia, Pamela Armani, Joe Phil, Collins Morgan, Monica Nwachukwu, Deola Odu, Amaka, Tamera Bowling, and Cleo Morris, we are excited to bring you this special broadcast to commemorate the birth of an Icon, a Legend, a Visionary CEO, a Missionary Christian, an Army of the Order of Christ, a Pen-Influence, a Vocal Spectacle-The Super Sensational Host of 'IWAB'-Aquinas Cosmas. Stay tuned
#celebrate5 #gracedimage #partyon #AQ #birthday #diamond
If we had ever thought of a wonder in bodily form, you are a perfect script. If we had ever known a gem or precious stone, your life is more than a living proof. If we had ever seen integrity and super-intelligence at work, you are a total package of such reality.
The path you have chosen is too bravery to be lived simply in the manner you demonstrate it. The content of your person tells so such about the presence and influence that qualifies the man in you. We have witnessed life changing moments in what we do by simply reading and implementing the rare thoughts you communicate, and all we can say is God is so awesome.
There are men, but there are sent men. You are among such class of being God sent to do uncommon things in this generation. We are not in confusion about the place you are headed because the signs you bear are too far strange to the likes of this world. You have taught us that good news sells and nothing compares to that.
You have been accused, blamed, misinterpreted and much more, but your consistency, speed, accuracy, tenacity, commitment and unwavering reaffirmation to this course of using online platform to foster healthy information particularly to the glory of the father and the church, bring tears down all our faces.
You are a man of honour, wisdom, faith and conviction. Through you and this platform you gave to the world, hundreds of thousands are constantly blessed and inspired always, around the world.
From the heart of Africa 'Nigeria' to Australia, America, Asia, Europe and Pacific, somebody's life and destiny has been altered for good because you took the pain when everyone was at funfair and sleeping and fasted from sleep and comfort to ensure you scripted those precious thoughts from the Holy Spirit, networked our global team to research and gather those lifting and informative news that brought hope to a world dominated by dilapidating media contents.
In a little over a year, over 1 Million people across 135 countries in 6 continents are reached by IWAB, creating opportunity for each of us to be part of this global fighting force in defense of the truth of the gospel and impact of the church.
On this day, we stand in awe of who you are and what you do. We celebrate the goodness, grace, wisdom, knowledge, understanding, favour and glory of God upon, and at work in your life. We are excited and most happy that you were born this day. You are truly a LEGEND and we say Happy Birthday Sir (Aquinas) our DIAMOND.
From #TeamInfluence #GlobalOnlineJournalists #BreakingNewsTeam #CynthiaInspiration #SecretCamera #iFAM
At mid day, join us here to hook up with Aquinas in a 60-minute live chat with the global family, as he pours out the fresh thoughts from the Spirit of God to us on THE MAN, HIS PRESENCE AND HIS INFLUENCE. Is a season of impact and blessing for you!
Time: 12:00PM GMT
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Posted from http://www.influencewithaquinas.wordpress.com


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From Joel Streed, Mayo Clinic News Network
Today is a day of organizing and hopefully a little relaxing. After bringing more than 600 kilos of equipment to Mount Everest Basecamp, it's time to make sure everything gets back home. So the team will be going through everything, packing and repacking equipment and personal gear. Later, a little more exploring of the nearby sections of Kathmandu. The Yak and Yeti hotel has been great. The staff and facilities are exceptional.
A word from Dr. Bruce Johnson
Expeditions like this are exciting and challenging, but I would say the study was very successful. The team did an outstanding job - working when tired and sick; the connections with The North Face and National Geographic while here have been great; and the only thing that could make it better would be the summit attempt within the next two weeks. Things are dicey on the mountain and many of the key groups have pulled out for the year due to the dangers of the icefalls, lack of snow, rock falls, etc. Our old friends the Benegas Brothers (guides that brought us up Aconcagua two years ago) are in base camp and in the thick of fixing ropes, planning, etc. to get key people to the top. There are some last minute pushes to unite Conrad Anker with a North Face Italian climber - permits are pending. Hopefully this will all work out. We have lots of data and will begin the process of analysis and manuscript writing as soon as we get back.
Tags: altitude research, altitude sickness, Events, Mount Everest, mountain climbing, National Geographic, News, North Face, People, physiology, Progress Updates


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Amendment C154
Greater Geelong Planning Scheme
Amendment status
Amendment last updated
Environmental Effects Statement (EES)
Planning authority contact details
Greater Geelong City Council
City Hall 30 Gheringhap Street Geelong VIC 3220 Australia
Tel: (03) 5272 5272
Please Note: Proposal description below describes the amendment. To verify content of the final approved amendment see the Explanatory Report.
Authorisation NO A923 Apply a Public Acquisition Overlay 7 (Water and Sewerage) to land at 40-42 Melaluka Road Leopold and 1943 Barwon Heads Road Barwon Heads and to rezone the land from Farming Zone to Public Use Zone 1.


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Facebook's purchase of Instagram had its users weary of changes, but within the last 6 months the network reached 150 million users! Instagram is showing growth at a faster rate than Facebook and Twitter! 17 of its top brands have at least 1 million followers.Because of this growth, there will soon be possible integration of ads. The challenge will be to balance the amount of advertisements so they are not overbearing. In the past, users have shown frustration when their content became usable for advertisements, so Instagram will need a good strategy. If 15 seconds videos are added to the network, they could profit anywhere from $1-2.5 million.
Read the full article here:


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The recent allegations against Volkswagen (VW) for installing a devise allowing the company to have its 1.6 and 2.0 liters diesel models cheat test are scandalous. The VW case is nothing new in an highly competitive sector with extreme global competition. However, the turn of the debate in the United States about VW and its violations of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) testing these last five years do not tell the whole story about transatlantic trade competition. Interestingly enough, diesel cars only represent less than 1% of passenger vehicles in US, when it is more than 50% in Europe, and the EPA is the enemy number one of the Republicans and a large segment of American population distrust the agency. So based on the fact that all three elements, corporate ethics, environmental concerns, and small market share, rank low in the US, why would the US be so offended about VW cheating of EPA tests?
Without falling into conspiracy theory, could the US attacks against VW to be more a case of transatlantic warfare and retaliation against one of the biggest and symbolic European corporation? Could it be a retaliation for the European Commission's cases against Microsoft and more recently Google?
VW Cheating and Systemic Failure
The VW scandal is based on the fact that VW has repetitively cheated on diesel car emission tests conducted by the EPA in the US and other agencies around the world. The company was selling its diesel models based on the claims that they were cleaner, more reliable, quicker, and greener than its competitions (one of the best discussions on the VW case was done on the Diane Rehm's Show, listen to it here).
The cheating did not only occur in the US. VW executives are saying that "vehicles in Europe with 1.6 and 2.0 litre diesel engines were also affected by the manipulations". This could affect over 11 millions cars around the world on models of Jetta, Passat, Audi A3, Golf.
The VW group is one of the largest world carmaker counting brands like Volkswagen, Porsche, Audi and Lamborghini. In July the group overtook Toyota for the number one global carmaker. The cheating allegations have already costed the head of its chief executive, Martin Winterkorn, and the VW shares dropped by almost 35% on Monday and Tuesday.
Historically, the United States has not been a large buyer of diesel cars as opposed to its European counterparts. In the US, diesel is more expensive than traditional gasoline because of higher federal tax. However, in Europe it is the opposite for the simple reason that European countries have imposed less taxes on diesel than traditional gasoline. Less than 1% of passenger vehicles in the US are diesel engines, as opposed to over 50% in Europe.
European against the US – Google It…
In a matter of weeks in the month of April, the European Commission went after two global giants, Google and Gazprom, both with antitrust charges. Both cases are being headed by Margrethe Vestager, the E.U. commissioner in charge of competition. She has taken over the question of competition from a different angle than her predecessor Joaquin Almunia by tackling the perceived violators with antitrust charges. Both corporations are very important for the European market. Google controls over 92% of the Search Market Share in Europe, while Russia, through in part Gazprom, provides one third of the gas imported in Europe.
In the case of Google, Vestager is accusing the company of using its dominance in the European market with its search engine in order to advance its interests.
The accusation claims that Google, through its search engine, can artificially skew results favor its own shopping service at the expense of competitors. This is a direct violation of the core principle of the Single Market and fair competition. "Dominant companies" said Vestager "have a responsibility not to abuse their powerful market position by restricting competition either in the market where they are dominant or in neighboring markets."
The antitrust case against Google, starting in 2008, illustrates the challenges of guaranteeing fair competition in the new age of the internet era. The case against Google was brought before the Commission by British price comparison site, Foundem. As reported by the Financial Times, "almost 20 complainants against Google want the search engine to abide by strict rules that ensure its formula treats its own services — providing results for travel, shopping and maps — no differently from rivals."
An added dimension to the Google case is the gap between Europeans and Americans' concerns and respect about privacy and data protection. The broad American surveillance program, revealed by Edward Snowden, created a serious transatlantic crisis. Interestingly enough, the European case against Google is the only one to stick, even though Google faced charges on three continents. In case of wrongdoing, the Commission has the power to levy fines of up to 10 per cent of Google's global turnover.
Transatlantic Retaliation or Fair Game?
For the US to go after VW is to go after the powerful 'Made in Germany' and German engineering savoir-faire. It is about tackling the competition where it hurts. The US have been tough on foreign competitions with cases against KIA and Hyundai, for lying on fuel efficiency, as well as its own manufacturers with Ford, whom had put defeat devises on its minivans in the late 1990s, and against GM for mechanical defaults costing the lives of more than two dozens individuals.
Ultimately, this piece does not try to lower or even reject the accusations against VW, or even defend VW from any ethical wrongdoing. At the opposite, VW has been caught for cheating by putting a product on the market, which could qualify as an environmental crime. If legally, it will be difficult to trace back the environmental consequences of these cars, it has legal grounds for lying to the costumers on car efficiency and cheating on official tests. But aside blaming one company from wrongdoing, it is interesting to try to put a rational economic look into trade retaliation between two global giants, the EU and the US. Both economic powerhouses are competing on promoting their brands on the global car market, with Ford and GM for the US, and Daimler AG, VW group, BMW AG, PSA Peugeot Citroën, and Renault for the Europeans.
The Google/VW cases should be analyzed altogether, as there are cases of transatlantic competitions and retaliation. From Europe, the Europeans are demonstrating the lack of willingness and incentives by the US government to go after Google, one of the premium American companies, even though it has used its supremacy in order to promote its interests on the American market. Europeans are claiming that they have to do the job in order to guarantee fairness of competition on the internet market. From the US, the Americans are advancing themselves as the ones that have identified the cheating thanks to the EPA and the Californian authorities, and are denouncing the lack of supervision at the European level. The Americans are talking of environmental wrongdoing and systemic failure within the most powerful auto group in the world.
Interestingly enough, when Commissioner Vestager brought the case against Google in April 2015, she then travelled to Washington D.C. meeting her American counterparts. At the time of the meeting, other American companies were backing the European claims of Google's violations. These American companies allowed "to head off accusations the action was inspired by German-led anti-Americanism." In Germany, the VW scandal is shaking up the population and the FT reported in a recent piece that "People will ask why the Americans, who don't really care about the environment, are attacking a German institution."
Germany has been the European engine for the last decade and the strongest economic pillar of Europe since the collapse of the world market. Germany economic model is directly based on an export driven economy. The automobile sector represents 2.7% of German GDP. Most car sales are made by the VW group, 70% of them are sold outside of Germany, and the group employs nearly 600,000 people around the world, and more than a third of the 775,000 people who work in the auto industry in Germany (these numbers come from CNN money's website). Attacking the VW group will have some impact on the German economy and ultimately European economy. "If nobody else has done it, the damage would be limited. If it looks like it's more companies, not just Volkswagen, it would be a major problem for the German car industry, and the German economy overall," said Theo Vermaelen, a finance professor at INSEAD.
Are VW/Google cases in order to protect the consumers, data privacy, morality, ethics, and competition? It is difficult to believe it. They seem to simply be transatlantic retaliation in an more than ever-competitive global market.
(Copyright 2014 by Politipond. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission).