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African Languages in a Digital Age: Challenges and Opportunities for Indigenous Language Computing
IDRC, 2010 - 150 pages
Offering practical approaches to finding a place for African languages in the information revolution, this overview lays the foundation for more effectively bridging the "digital divide" by finding new solutions to old problems. Conducted by the PanAfrican Localization project under the sponsorship of Canada's International Development Research Center, this survey explores obstacles that impede greater use of African languages in computer software and internet content, assesses possible solutions and maps for their reach, and identifies future trends in the field. Among the key issues discussed are the importance of localization in the African context; barriers to more widespread use of African languages in internet computer technology; and by whom, for which languages, and in which countries efforts are being made. Central to the discussion is the introduction of the concept of "localization ecology" to account for the key factors, facilitate discussion of their interaction, and call attention to how planning and implementing localization can and should consider these issues.
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African Languages in a Digital Age: Challenges and Opportunities for ...
Don Osborn
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subset: commoncrawl


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If you are tired to inhale chemical vapors from all those cleaning solutions, like I am, then you should probably learn how to prepare your own window cleaning solution, to effectively clean your windows, mirrors, and other glass objects in your house, such as the shower.
You need:
– water
– rubbing alcohol
– vinegar
Mix the above ingredients, in equal parts, in a spray bottle, and add 2 drops of dish detergent.
Vinegar has the property to clean salt deposits, alcohol will degrease, and the combination between these 2 ingredients will clean any glass piece.
Use a microfiber cloth
Put the solution in a spray bottle and use it for kitchen cabinets, shower, mirrors in the bedroom and the bathroom. But use a microfiber cloth that will make the window shine, leaving no lint on it.
With such a cloth, you will clean any type of glass much more quickly and easily, no matter how dirty it is. And remember that it's much easier to clean the windows when it's slightly cloudy outside!
Image Credits: Mommypotamus


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I have to admit, during our off season I do not check this blog very often. When the whales are gone, apparently, so am I! However, I have received a few comments recently which had reinvigorated me, and reinforced how very lucky I, along with my coleagues are, that we get to enjoy these animals when they migrate to our home.
At the moment, I am giddy for them to arrive. The first sighting has already occurred, about 2 weeks ago off of Kauai, but that does not mean I am any less excited for the first time I see my returning buddies!
After reading these recent comments, and reviewing the most recent footage, I remembered how special of an experience it is to look a whale in the eye. I recall once watching a very informative Hannah Bernard video (filmed in the early 80's, clearly) which mentioned "looking into the eye of a whale is like looking into the eye of God." Not being a very religious person, I didn't connect with that too much at the time. Now, after having this experience several times for myself, I can truthfully say, it is unreal. In a single moment, a person can be humbled beyond any expectation of a humbled human life. To look a creature in the eye that is not only so large, but is also so old… is nothing short of magical. Even for the most non-beleiving among us, it would be hard to classify such an experience as anything less than spiritual.
For me, I realized in a very quick, very minute moment, that no matter how much science we have in our favor, we will never understand the world in which they live. We will never know what they know about our own planet. We will never see what they have seen. They live in a very close, yet a very alien world to us. I will forever consider them as inspirational, enduring, and incredibly wise creatures. I hope that the importance I place on these monumental examples of life that is sustained in our oceans will intrigue others, just enough, to make changes in their own lives to help this eco system prosper.
This, is my hope for our collective future.


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The Democrats are in a rush to impeach President Trump. It represents the culmination of their concerted efforts of the past three years. What a waste.
The curtain has closed on Schiff impeachment theater. On Wednesday Jerry Nadler takes center stage — quite a lot of it, as a matter of fact — when the curtain goes goes up the House Judiciary Committee. Seeking to respond to the procedural unfairness that permeated the Schiff show, Nadler has invited the White House to participate in the production. In the five-page letter below, White House Counsel Pat Cipollone declines. FOX News reports on the letter here.
We know where Nadler is coming from. Like his Democratic colleagues, he has been coming from there since some time well before the Ukraine thing. Mollie Hemingway caught Nadler as he spoke on his cell phone the day after the midterm elections in which the Dems took the House. Hemingway overheard Nadler vowing to go all-out for Trump's impeachment grounded alleged collusion with Russia.
Russian collusion represented impeachment 1.0. The Ukraine thing represents impeachment 2.0.
On Wednesday the Judiciary Committee will apparently hear from four academic witnesses testifying on impeachment. Laurence Tribe is reportedly batting leadoff.
Whether or not Tribe bats leadoff, his is the ruling spirit of the proceedings; he has advocated impeachment since before Trump was sworn in. It is a good guess that he will be one of the Democrats' witnesses. Impeachment "Should Begin On Inauguration Day," Tribe declared on December 5, 2016. By January 28, 2017, Tribe had concluded that Trump "must be impeached for abusing his power and shredding the Constitution more monstrously than any other president in American history" — pretty impressive, Cato's Gene Healy observed, for a man entering the second week of his presidency.
Quotable quote: "When the Judiciary Committee scheduled a similar hearing during the Clinton impeachment process, it allowed those questioning the witnesses two-and-a-half weeks' notice to prepare, and it scheduled the hearing on a date suggested by the president's attorneys. Today, by contrast, you have afforded the president no scheduling input, no meaningful information and so little time to prepare that you have effectively denied the administration a fair opportunity to participate."
WHITE HOUSE LETTER TO NADLER by Fox News on Scribd


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Three Little Pigs
A Quick Kiss From A Cow
A Spoonful Of Sugar
If you've never used a soup spoon to feed blackstrap molasses to a six-foot-tall, horned steer in the dead of winter, I highly recommend adding this to your bucket list. It is tricky: to fill a cold spoon with cold molasses; to navigate the spoon around the steer's foot-long tongue and into his mouth; to dodge his sticky lips as he searches your face and torso for another spoonful. Both parties end up happy messes by the end of it.
It's been unbelievably icy around here this winter. I wished I had crampons this morning just to cross the driveway to the chicken house. The snow drifts melt and puddle during the warm days, then it all re-freezes overnight. Ice upon ice upon ice. Some of the ice is smooth and slick, and some of it looks and feels like rough crumbles of glass. From this ice, Frisco got tiny cuts in the bottom of his feet, in the soft area around the actual hoof, and bacteria entered and caused an infection called foot rot. Foot rot is serious and painful, though not nearly as gross as the name implies. It's fairly common in cattle, but this was my first first-hand experience with it. The infection caused swelling in both his hind ankles and made him lame – lameness, from the pain of the infection, is the most obvious early sign of foot rot. It can be knocked out with antibiotics, and cows have been known to fight the infection on their own, without medication, over the course of a couple of weeks, but a bad case can be fatal. This all started the last week of December, and it has been a battle.
The worst thing about doctoring large animals is the sheer volume of medicine one needs to administer in each dose. Giving a cat or a rooster a shot requires the tiniest syringe, a fine, delicate needle, and the act of giving the shot is over in a fraction of a second. Quick and painless, at least for the one administering the shot (ME!). With animals that weigh in well over 1000 pounds, it's a very different story. Pills the size of a roll of quarters, syringes just as large. Giving a steer that is too tall to fit in the squeeze chute six giant pills and three giant shots multiple times a week is decidedly less fun than feeding him molasses with a spoon.
This bolus pusher helped me out with the pills. You put one pill in the tube at the end, then stick the apparatus into the beloved bovine's mouth, guiding it in as far as you can and over the bump that cattle have at the back of their tongue, and then, with your third hand, push the plunger which gently deposits the pill so far back that they can't spit it out and have to swallow it. Repeat six times. The pills annoyed Frisco, but at least they didn't hurt. There's just no gentle way to give a shot. Halfway through Frisco's treatment, after I'd been dutifully cleaning the needles after each use, I came across a series of photos of a needle after reuse. I used fresh needles from then on, but I think it's time I learned how to sharpen a needle.
While sick, Frisco lost his appetite and lost about 250 pounds with it. Just when I felt he had turned the corner and knocked out the infection, we got hit with serious cold and a few negative-20-degree nights. I stressed about his weakness and weight loss in such cold, but he and Daisy and Fiona slept together in the barn, and their body heat (which is substantial, and the original reason I started napping on cattle so many years ago) kept Frisco warm.
Yet Frisco needed to gain back some weight – and quickly. I was trying to think up some sort of high calorie mash I could give him, and landed on organic blackstrap molasses. I pretty much force-fed him by the spoonful the first day, but it did immediately stimulate his appetite for hay, and on the second day, he was like, "that stuff is delicious, do give me more." The third day, I mixed the molasses with organic barley in a big pan. I don't usually give my bovines grain, but Frisco desperately needed the calories, and this confection really helped him gain back his strength and his appetite. I gave him this treat once a day for a week or so, and now he's getting it every other day. He'll be bummed when this tapers off and his only treat is dried alfalfa pellets.
Friday morning, things were looking good. Frisco had a hearty appetite and dove into the breakfast hay alongside Daisy and Fiona. Around noon, I took Frisco his molasses treat and finally felt he was out of the woods. His personality was back in full force, and instead of losing weight daily, I could see he had started to gain some back. Hallelujah! I took my first full breath in two weeks, turned to Fiona, and my breath caught halfway down. Something was very, very wrong. She wasn't showing signs of foot rot; she was showing signs of labor. I spent the afternoon and evening at the corral, and at dusk, Fiona miscarried. I think the only thing worse than midwifing a miscarriage would be having one. I really don't have anything else to say on it. If you've been through it, you know; if you haven't, words can't possibly approach it.
This story actually ends on a high note, beyond Frisco and Fiona remaining alive and on the mend. My vet came by on Saturday because Fiona had not birthed the placenta (apparently, it can take up to a week with cows with preterm calves; he made sure she wasn't carrying twins and gave her some shots to help the process). After he attended to Fiona, I asked him to preg test Daisy. Daisy's last calf was born in July 2012. It was a treacherous birth, extremely hard on Daisy and the calf did not survive. We got Maia, an orphan calf, for Daisy to adopt (and Maia is now all grown up and pregnant herself!) but Daisy has not bred back since. I've had her preg checked a few times during the last 18 months but can't even remember the last time – late spring or early summer – and on Saturday, I had zero expectations, even though I'd not seen Daisy and Sir Baby "courting" since October. But since the vet was here, and Daisy was underfoot, why not?
When the vet said, "90 days," I thought he meant no dice, and that he'd check her again in 90 days. I think he had to repeat himself three times for it to finally register, and when it did, I wept. She's 90 days bred! If all continues to go well, she'll calve mid-July. After nearly two years, and wondering if Daisy would ever be able to get pregnant again, this news was the sweetest sugar that helped soothe the sadness.
A Face Full of Sunshine
I was going through old photos this morning and came upon this image of Fiona when she was a baby and had to re-post. Such sweetness….
Computer issues are contributing to the lack of recent posts… apologies!


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Made a reservation and now you can't keep it? Things happen – sometimes you can't get away when you thought. We'll try to make it as easy as possible for you. Here are our policies:
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If you cancel with less than 15 days for rooms, we reserve the right to charge for the first night for all rooms reserved. We will issue a full refund, less the non-refundable administration fee of $25, provided we are able to rent the room/rooms to another guest for the entire reserved period. Please note: the cancellation policy also applies to reservations booked with Gift Certificates. "No Shows" and unscheduled early departures are subject to full payment for all nights reserved.
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Chief Paul Brennan (MA) || President
Paul has been in Emergency Medical services for 32 years. During this time he has worked in volunteer, private, urban Fire Department and Hospital based EMS systems as a provider, educator and administrator.
Since 1994, he has been the Director of Lawrence General Hospital's Advanced Life Support service which provides regional advanced life support services to 4 communities as well as ALS/BLS 911 response to the City of Lawrence Massachusetts.
He is a long time board member of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Medical Services Committee, State Emergency Medical Care Advisory Council (EMCAB), President of the Massachusetts Association of Hospital Operated Paramedic Systems, member of the Massachusetts State Trauma Committee and Hospital representative in the Region 3 Massachusetts health and medical care Coalition (HMCC).
Paul is the Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for Lawrence General Hospital and has worked on numerous emergency management/preparedness initiatives as well as ASPR grant projects for EMS and Hospital readiness. He serves as an evaluator for the Harvard School of Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Exercise Program and has provided private consulting for hospitals in emergency management and all hazards planning.


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The NATIONAL WOMAN'S PARTY, a book written by Eric Foner and John A. Garraty, offers insight into Alice Paul's contributions to winning women's suffrage and her role after the Nineteenth Amendment was passed. Coming from Britain, Paul led a split off of the Congressional Union known as the National Women's Party. The section I focused my research on centered around the newly formed NWP, which engaged in more aggressive methods of civil disobedience, similar to the ones used across the pond.
Likewise, the Suffrage Movement, lends information regarding the progression of the suffrage movement across the United States and the different groups which formed to support the cause. The source also depicts a more radical fight for rights, which began in Britain and soon evolved to reach America with supporters such as Alice Paul. In 1912, newspapers worldwide printed stories about the civil disobedience tactics used by the British suffragists, including hunger strikes, which led to force-feeding by British law enforcement officials. The source highlights the progression of the severity of civil disobedience tactics used in the U.S.: from boycotting the Democrats to picketing the White House.
As my research paper centers mainly around the more severe and aggressive acts of civil disobedience and the manner in which these tactics supported the women's suffrage movement, each source offers valuable information. I discovered both of these books through the school's subscription to ProQuest, an online database with several thousand credible resources. Both texts are strongly rooted in factual evidence, without claims or assertions, diminishing apparent bias. The only drawback to both of these selections is the inability to read the rest of the resource. Additionally, neither text went into detail on the hunger strikes in particular, and I am struggling to find a source which does.
- "NATIONAL WOMAN'S PARTY." The Reader's Companion to American History. 1991. eLibrary. Web. 17 Jan. 2017.
- "Suffrage Movement." The Reader's Companion to U.S. Women's History. 1998. eLibrary. Web. 19 Jan. 2017.


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Brisbane is a vibrant city offering a selection of hotel accommodation some of which is situated right on the Brisbane River.
Tour by luxury air-conditioned coach with 2-door access, restroom, seatbelts, reclining seats & panoramic windowsDay 1: Brisbane - NoosaTravel on to Brisbane for a scenic city tour. Visi
Day 1. Arrive Brisbane, Toowoomba Arrive in Brisbane and be met by your Driver-Guide this afternoon. Board your 4WD as you head to Toowoomba. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner. Stay: Toowoom
Prior to your arrival at O'Reilly's, enjoy a stroll along the 'Gallery Walk', Mt Tamborine's unique local art and craft shops. After your arrival at O'Reilly's,
Byron Bay famous not only for its position as Australia's most easterly mainland point but also as the "alternate lifestyle" capital of Australia. Meet the locals, soak up th
Stay at Eurong Beach Resort, on Fraser Island?s eastern beach. This 2 day tour combines interactive and entertaining commentary in one of the world?s most beautiful playgrounds.Travel from
An early start will see you travel from Brisbane via air-conditioned coach. The real adventure then starts at Noosa, head across the Noosa River via cable ferry crossing taking you deep in
Walk through the treetops 16 metres above the forest floor, before returning to your hotel via Canungra Valley Vineyards.Mount TamborineEnjoy scenic views to the Gold Coast as you climb th
Balloons Above has been operating since 1984. Chief Pilot Jason Harm has over 30 years local knowledge and more than 13 years hot air ballooning experience. We meet at first light and travel
The captain of Brisbane Whale Watching, Kerry is recognised as the only woman captain skippering a whale watching venture in the South Pacific Rim. Her crew are skilled, dedicated
Brisbane Whale watching Eye Spy
An Unforgettable Marine Adventure! Brisbane Whale Watching invites you to come on board the magnificent 'Eye Spy' for an encounter with the whales Of all the great whal
1 DAY FRASER ISLAND 4WD TOURDeparts: Tue, Wed, Thurs, Sat, SunMaximum 40 passengers. For those with limited time, this tour provides the opportunity to see the natural beauty of Fraser Isl
Bushwacker Eco Tours Rainforest Day Tour
RAINFOREST DISCOVERY BUSHWALK TOURDeparts Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, SunIncludesDISCOVER WORLD HERITAGE RAINFORESTDiscover the World Heritage Rainforest of Springbrook National Park through the e
Day 1Surfers ParadiseHotelCheck-in to your hotel after 2pm, then enjoy an afternoon exploring. At 6:00pm meet your Contiki crew, and head into Surfers Paradise for a great night out to me
Starting the day in Brisbane, leaving between 5.00 am to 5.15am sharp, head north to the Sunshine coast.One hour into the trip we pass through a subtropical rainforest and mountain ranges.
Dolphin Wild's eco-adventure includes discovering the spectacular beauty, wildlife and crystal clear waters of Moreton Island.Moreton Bay Marine Park is home to many marine animals - B
Experience a safe aviation adventure Relive the same sensations that the first French balloonists experienced in 1783, with all the magic emotions and adventure, in today's modern ball
A traditional wicker basket provides a magnificent vantage, allowing you plenty of time to take in the splendour of the surrounding area. The flight will last about an hour...the memories
Day 1 Queensland HinterlandOn arrival into Brisbane Airport or Sunshine Coast Airport you'll be greeted by your Journey Leader and transferred by private vehicle through the scenic Sun
From local delights, designers, boutiques and off the beaten track cafes and souvenir shops, pick up some special, unique gifts and mementos of Brisbane, Queensland, on our Insider Tour. A
Kookaburra River Queens Built in 1986 and 1988 the authentic paddlewheelers played a major role in the popular world expo 88, held at Southbank. The classic elegant deccor and famous
1 DAY MORETON ISLAND 4WD TOURDeparts: DailyOur tour starts with a luxury cruise aboard MiCat across beautiful Moreton Bay to Moreton Island. On arrival we board our 4WD and drive off the f
One of only three such experiences in the world, the climb leads to an 80 metre summit where climbers enjoy magnificent views of the city, the river, the mountain ranges, and Moreton
Tangalooma Whale Watching Brisbane
Marvel at the annual migration each June to October of humpback whales as they journey some 16,000 kilometres from Antarctica along the east coast of Australia. These acrobats of the o
TANGALOOMA WHALE WATCHING Includes: Return scenic cruise across Moreton Bay Cruise to the Whale Watch area Expert commentary by an Eco Ranger Light lunch served on board Flexible (s
Day 1. Arrive Cairns, Port Douglas Be met on arrival in Cairns and head north to the coastal town of Port Douglas for a tour. This patch of paradise is the meeting point of the World Herita


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Nokia signs the agreement that will enable HMD global to produce new mobile phones and tablets for the next ten years. HMD is a newly founded company based in Finland.
The Nokia brand is returning to the mobile phone and tablet market. https://t.co/n2lhWmxjYm
— Nokia (@nokia) May 18, 2016
HMD announced today that it has agreed to acquire from Microsoft the rights to use the Nokia brand name on feature phones. Today, Microsoft announced that it is selling its Nokia budget phone business to FIH Mobile Ltd (Foxconn) and HMD. The company is selling budget phone division to Foxconn for $350 million.
Together these agreements would make HMD the sole global licensee for all types of Nokia-branded mobile phones and tablets. Nokia smartphones and tablets will come with Android OS.
Ramzi Haidamus, president of Nokia Technologies, said:
"Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our brand. HMD plans to produce mobile phones and tablets that can leverage and grow the value of the our brand in global markets. Working with HMD and FIH will let us participate in one of the largest consumer electronics markets in the world while staying true to our licensing business model."
Arto Nummela, CEO-designate of HMD, said:
"We will be completely focused on creating a unified range of mobile phones and tablets, which we know will resonate with consumers. Branding has become a critical differentiator in mobile phones, which is why our business model is centered on the unique asset of the brand and our extensive experience in sales and marketing. We will work with world class providers in manufacturing and distribution to move quickly and deliver what customers want."


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Application tips: How to survive the home stretch.
In a previous blog post, I gave application tips for those who are basically finished as well as for those who haven't even started the admissions process yet. Now, I know a lot of you may not have fit into those categories– and, you are not alone. Most of you in fact lie somewhere in the middle– you've gotten the ball rolling a long time ago, but you're not quite done yet. You are by no means green– you have gone over what goes into the admissions process time and time again, and know exactly what is required of you. Yet, time is ticking, and deadlines are approaching and the pressure is on.
Well, unfortunately, the pressure is on– to some extent. By now, you should have already taken the necessary exams and, hopefully, gotten the scores you want. Or, you are either awaiting new scores to come in or planning to retake very soon. Clearly, this is a crucial step in the whole process as test administration dates can frame your entire application timeline– this is especially the case for college and law school applicants. So, ideally, you should have completed this step by now or, at the very least, know when you will be doing so. If not, see my previous blog post about how whether to start the application process from the beginning this late in the game.
With that said, where do you go from here?
First off, breathe. That's step one. You are almost there. Then, start cracking.
Compile a list of deadlines. To have a full handle of this process, you should have in mind some sort of time-frame of official deadlines and even "unofficial" ones. Meaning, you should know when your schools officially stop receiving applications and when you are hoping to get your applications in by. This list should function as an official tally of when your application materials must be completed by.Most of you should have done this by now. If you haven't, drop everything right now and figure it out, stat. If this is a mental list, get it down on paper or on-screen; it is more helpful to see this list written out, chronologically, in front of you than juggling it somewhere in your mind. If you have this already written down, pat yourself on the back. Then, revisit it. Be mindful of when everything is due, and when you would like to have them completed by.
Now, time to consider your applications themselves.
Take note of what remains outstanding. Write down what you have completed already, and congratulate yourself on having done so. Then, concentrate on what remains to be done, and write them down. This will be your "Remaining Items" list. Your list could look like this:
- Letter of recommendation from Professor Thom
- Study-abroad transcript from Narnia University
- Addendum for freshman year "open container" issue
- Resume
- Personal statement
- Diversity statement
I know this seems like a lot– in fact, it may seem like your entire application. However, these are examples of items that you might not have finished entirely and, as such, they are outstanding. And, chances are, these examples may very well be on your own list, too. So, what now?
Compile your "Next Action" list. Consider what you have listed above. What are the steps necessary to make this "Remaining Items" list a "Completed/Stick a fork in it" one? Think about what actually needs to be done, and write those items down. It very well look like this:
- Email Prof. Thom to follow-up
- Check the status on my transcript request from Narnia U.
- Call admissions rep of XYZ University to find out if I have to disclose an "open container" violation or not
- Proofread resume
- Submit personal statement electronically
- Make final revisions of diversity statement.
Okay, great. Now, your "Remaining Items" list is in a more digestible form– a truly detailed, precise "To Do" list. So, while looking over this new list, think: what can be done immediately?
This, of course, is largely a judgment call– for example, proofreading your essay can be an easy task for, say, me but it can be a more time-consuming and arduous task for someone else. Also, if you have been working on your personal statement nonstop the past couple of weeks, you may feel that it's time to work on other parts of your application. So, carefully consider what can be done right now, and what should be worked on in the long run. Submitting an essay electronically certainly takes less time than revising a whole diversity statement so, if you have a few minutes to spare, you can definitely squeeze in the former in the meantime.
This, of course, is an exercise in effective time management— of how to fit in what needs to get done in the time that you have remaining. So, taking these lists into account– your deadlines, remaining items, and next actions– you should be able to create and maintain a firm grasp on your application process. Now that your oh-so close to the finish line, you must have the utmost control over what needs to get done, and when. Being mindful of when your materials need to be in, what remains to be completed, and what remains to be done is only way to do that.


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Adventure log: Tabor Tooms
This chapter starts with the party existing the ancient temple of the forgotten people of the desert, with Clinton dead and strange artifacts in hand retrieved from the Dybbuk chamber, only to find the Mad Wizard Al Hazared and his retinue have laid an ambush.
Hazared floats upon his carpet, with Peloquin bound and held hostage in front of him, while a small army of archers are arrayed around and behind the adventurers. Faizal and the Old Man are taken hostage. Hazared offers a deal: his Efreeti summoning necklace in exchange for the parties lives.
Radcliffe retrieves the necklace from Urnyci and recalls that Hazared used a code phrase to activate it at the celebration in Sidron, but cannot recall the word. Miraculously, Porkins recalls the phrase activating the necklace, which burns Radcliffe who drops it. Hazared drains Radcliffe's life force with an Enervation spell.
As the archers start firing a hail of arrows, Radcliffe then protects the party with a shell of stone, while Peloquin further miraculously causes Al Hazared to descend to the ground with a Command spell. Pat uses the opportunity to charge Hazared with the Silver Spear while Porkins retrieves the necklace and manages to hold on it it, commanding the summoned Efreet to attack Hazared in exchange for it's freedom.
A commotion is seen among one row of archers as the Old Man appears to polymorph into a huge brass dragon, which blasts the archers with sleep gas before pinwheeling into the sky, dispersing many of them in horrow. Meanwhile, Faisal mounts Habibi and harasses archers with his bow.
Mounted Knights of the White Lion charge and disperse the remaining archers, Pat and the Efreet strike the killing blows on Al Hazared, ending his reign of terror. The party takes his treasure and places his wrapped body on Habibi for transportation.
Recognizing Pat as "The Spear Carrier", Lady Estrella hails the party and invites them to the Fortress of Shabbas, where they celebrate and rest. Knights of the Order provide information on the legendary Sextarma- the mythic weapons that are fortold to meet on a great field of battle. They provide Letters of Recommendation for the party and offer them an escort, Sir Keplinger, to Malagra, where they can have the Bishop revive Clinton.
On arrival at Malagra, Faisal breaks off to return to Sidron (with Al Hazared's body) and hopes to help Dinarzade win control of the city. Keplinger provides instructions for where to meet the Bishop and where to stay in the city, as well as a wizard named Aldo Novas who can help the party understand the treasures they have found and potentially teleport them home.
The party visits the Bishop of Malagra to raise Clinton. They then visit and befriend Aldo Novas, who offers to trade them a Soul Diamond in exchange for some of their treasures and transportation home, but says the party must return the next day so he can retrieve his Soul Diamond.
During the evening, Porkins has a disturbing nightmare about the destruction of Peckton by three hags riding a tidal wave and a tall man in a top hat. He awakens fatigued but uses magical incense to restore himself.
The next morning, the Innkeeper awakens the party to the arrival of one Inspector Iago, who wishes to question them. Iago informs the party that an acquaintance of theirs- the merchant Balthazar who traded them the map, has alerted him to their presence at the location of the Inn (although the party purposefully stayed at a different Inn then the one mentioned by Keplinger). Iago convinces the party to follow him to Balthazar's townhouse, where he shows them the body of Balthazar's (now headless) wife. Balthazar was taken to the asylum as he was ranting about the party, the end of the world, and Tabor Tooms, a serial killer.
Agreeing to meet Iago at his precinct, the party pieces together other details including the legend of Tabor Tooms, a murderous, impeccably dressed Tailor who would kill his customers and sever their heads 40 years ago. Although Iago was present at his hanging and the burning of his body as a young constable, murders continued every few years. Most recently he names a young woman named Elvira who was murdered shortly after being released from an orphanage, even though she was under the protection of a priest that warded her against undead.
The party accompanies Iago to the Malagra Asylum where one Dr Poth allows them to question the now-insane Balthazar, who claims that Al Hazared showed him the coming of the Old Gods but denied killing his wife, claiming it was Tabor Tooms.
The party returns to the Bishop to look for records of Elvira where they rebuffed by the now-disturbed Bishop, before returning to Aldo Novas, whom they inform that they intend to stay to solve the mystery. The party sleeps under the protection of Aldo Novas apartment, taking turns on watch.
When the party awakens they find Peloquin murdered, his head removed. The party splits up to find help and search the Bishop's records, but the streets are eerily dark and quiet. While split up, Radcliffe is attacked by living walls and a pool of blood, but protects himself with a resilient sphere…
Meanwhile the rest of the party breaks into the Cathedral to search the Bishops records. They find a cabinet filled with records, but every record is about Tabor Tooms. Then, the Bogeyman himself attacks alternately Radcliffe and the party with his knived hands and fear spells.
Radcliffe is the first to recognize the events as a dream and awaken himself while fighting Tooms inside the resilient sphere, even while Clinton receives healing from an unknown source, and the cathedral ceiling opens up to a raining sky (as Porkins heals Clinton in the real world and Radcliffe pours water on them). Eventually Clinton and Pat are awoken, leaving Porkins to fight Tooms and take serious injury, before he too is awoken.
Realizing the death of Peloquin and other events were a dream, the party leaves Aldo Novas apartment to put together more clues. They encounter a apologetic Bishop who reveals that he was the priest that tried to protect Elvira from the undead but could not. He points out that his notes on Elvira are incomplete but that the Precinct has more. They consider re-entering the dream world to confront Tabor Tooms but decide against it when, with Iago's help , they realize that all of Toom's victims since his death were related to or connected with someone incarerated at the Asylum.
Leaving Peloquin with the Bishop, the party and Iago return to the Asylum, where after a short inquiry the Dr excuses himself due to an "unruly patient" while his party escorts them out. The party proceeds to find a way into the asylum while Iago heads to the Library to research more town records.
As the party explores the Asylum they hear Dr Poth warn the occupants of "intruders". They search the Dr's office and other locations where they are attacked by a Mimic, Gibbering Mouthers, and Tabor Tooms himself, who seems to favor hit-and-run sneak attacks on separated members. They discover cells containing not only inmates but jars of human brains which attempt to communicate with them (and which the party destroys). Seeing them destroy his life's work, Dr Poth confronts the party in the surgical theater where he is operating on Balthazar's brain; his nurse grows black feathered wings and attacks the party with a flaming bow while Dr Poth uses strange psionic abilities to attack the party and his orderly attempts to subdue party members and remove their brains.
While Dr Poth manages to stun almost the entire party, after taking serious damage and healing himself, eventually Urnyci and the returning Iago manage to land death blows on the good Dr, while Porkins wounds the hellish "Nurse" enough for her to flee in a burst of fire.
As the constables secure the asylum, the party and Iago retrieve documents, maps, and other clues to review later. It becomes clear that Poth was using his advanced mental powers (of unknown origin) and the Tabor Tooms legend as a cover to remove people that were too close to discovering the dark secrets of the asylum, as well as to collect brains for his experiments. He had been collecting individuals at the asylum that had, through their madness, claimed to foresee the end of the world, so that he could gather information to help the "old gods" return, as well as prevent the outside world from learning of their impending doom.
The next day, the party commits to have Aldo Novas teleport them home, who searches their brain and attempts to transport them, only to find that the Golden Shield is acting as a dimensional anchor, preventing their travel. The party leaves to decide who to send home to warn Tyn while someone escorts the Shield by boat, when they are approached on the street by Captain Bonnie and the Grudge, whom they haven't seen in years, and who demand an audience.
Posted on June 21, 2017, in Chapter 27: Tabor Tooms. Bookmark the permalink. Leave a comment.


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I personally oppose Scientology because of its cultic framework, in which an otherwise sound and original belief system exists. This framework leads the CoS into cultic behavior, and that behavior is rightly opposed by critics.
The problem, however, is that the critical movement itself currently exists in a cultic framework as well, that leads critics into cultic behavior. These could go as far as help to precipitate mass tragedies like Jonestown and Waco, on top of countless individual drama.
This is the reason I oppose the anti-cult and anti-Scientology movement in its present form, because they in fact represent a greater and more immediate danger to basic human rights than cults themselves.
Trying to scare the public and authorities through anti-Scientology myths may work in the short run but is doomed to fail in the long run because these obviously lack sufficient basis in truth to satisfy legal and academic requirements.
This is what the recent lifting of the German project to ban Scientology shows.
But there is more.
Graham, a moderate Scientologist, places the German ban project lifting in an interesting historical perspective where he shows that basically the same type of events happened in Australia, the UK, Spain and with the American IRS, among others. What is more, he points to the interesting fact that in many cases these investigations not only led to a possible ban lift but also led to a full religious status recognition for the CoS!
Grahame also argues that the burden of proof on the Internet is not the same as for legal situations and that this explains why anti-Scientology myths can have a long life on such a media and fool uncritical masses such as Anonymous.
In the long run, however, I believe that the fact that courts, government, and academics more and more refuse to follow anti-cult fanatics in their crusade, is one of the factors that increases the cognitive dissonance in the public and helps them question what they read on so-called critical web sites.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
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Antiquing Blogs
1. Perch Home
...musings about family, antiquing and being a shop owner!
Owner: PerchHome
Listed in: Home-garden
Other Tags: shop, vintage, home decor, interior design
The Shabby Garden is a blog styled around shabby chic, vintage charm, flea market design offering.. ideas, DIY projects and artists to get to know. Welcome!
Owner: theshabbygarden
Listed in: Home-garden
Other Tags: Shabby Chic, Vintage, decorating, crafts


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DuraPlaq® DuraWrap (Canvas), DuraPlaq® Plaque (Wood)
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Since my OCZ 256GB SSD decided to flake out on me, I need a new SSD for games...this looks to be a good deal on a good size drive
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications ... =A208-5209
Adata 512GB SX900 - $249.99
Know of a great deal on the web or at a local retailer? Let your fellow members in on the secret!
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text: Programming Programming resources are a necessity if you run a website. The ability to adapt and modify your site is no longer achieved with only HTML and CSS skills. We create websites and online applications to achieve the client's goals. We don't shoehorn a customer into someone else's template or theme and if necessary we can update or change prior programmed websites. We can provide examples of past work as well as review and discuss how to best handle your project. Please contact us for further information. Contact us to talk more about your requirements regarding Programming for your Website.


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Humana Inc. is expanding a national Medicare service operations center in Florida.
Humana, Louisville, Ky. (NYSE:HUM), will be adding 200 full-time positions at the center, the company says.
Humana already has about 500 Tampa-based employees handling calls, claims and written inquiries from Medicare members and providers.
The new employees will include customer care specialists and frontline supervisors.
Humana needs to hire employees by the end of September to have time to train them for the 2012 Medicare open enrollment period, which will start Oct. 15 and run through Dec. 7, the company says.
- Allison Bell


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Wed, 31 January 2007
We end where we began, with the voice in my head and the conflicted relationship I've always had with it.
One more podcast as a summary after this, but that's all. I'll try to make it good.
as usual, thanks for comin out, and thanks for throwin' some nickels in the tip jar once in a while
Direct download: AUG28-if_you_call_I_will_answer.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:11pm EDT


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Always inspired by you, his grace set me free, I am made whole in your love, you are the best part of me, your eloquence leave me breathless, Your love God is amazing
Father, you have
heard the cry of
my spirit
You have lifted me
my spirit, and my heart
from their once lonely
You have lit the
candles of my face
with the radiance
of fiery stars
You have set my mind
free from its many
sad and lonely thoughts
and dreams
Oh Lord, blessed
is your name, my
heart sings songs,
inspired by only
… and your eloquence
As my spirit is lifted
into the heavens above
so I may taste daily
of your eternal love
Feeling the blessing of
your amazing grace which
enriches and empowers
my spirit
While these words come alive
from deep within me…
You are sweet I know,
You are fair I know,
You are dear I know,
You are love I know…
And when you touch me
my Lord, I know the
whole of me is made
Because You are the best
part of my life.
Psalm 16:2
I said to the LORD, "You are my
Master! Every good thing I have
comes from you."
Psalm 139: 1-6
Lord, you have seen what is in my
heart. You know all about me.
You know when I sit down and when
I get up. You know what I'm
thinking even though you are far
away. You know when I go out to
work and when I come back home.
You know exactly how I live. Lord,
even before I speak a word, you
know all about it. You are all
around me. You are behind me and
in front of me. You hold me in
your power. I'm amazed at how
well you know me. It's more than
I can understand.
Image Credit.


text:
Sorry for bad narration - I did very minor preparation to record this video. Also sorry for saying "dividable" instead of divisible.
This movie demonstrates implementation a variation of FizzBuzz kata without error checking, but with refactoring towards the Chain of Responsibility pattern. The first part is done using TDD and triangulation.


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Enter the alien ship from Oscar nominated Arrival. If you dare...
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Rebecca Busanich brings a strong qualitative research background and academic expertise to her role as Associate Director of Plymouth State University's Center for Active Living and Healthy Communities.
As a young scholar who joined the university's Health and Human Performance Department in the fall of 2011, Busanich already holds extensive practical and academic experience in the fields of sports medicine and exercise and health psychology.
After receiving her bachelor's and master's degrees in sports medicine from the University of Michigan and the University of Oregon respectively, Busanich went on to receive her doctoral degree from the University of Iowa, in the area of exercise psychology and health and physical activity promotion.
In line with the Center's mission—to enhance active living, health and wellness of rural residents in New Hampshire's Lakes Region and North Country—Busanich's research interests are in examining the socio-cultural determinants of health and physical activity and how these can be used to promote healthy and positive eating and physical activity experiences along with exercise adherence in underrepresented populations. In exploring these ideas, Busanich draws upon alternative (i.e., constructionist and critical) theories and social ecological frameworks, along with qualitative methodologies and innovative visual and creative methods, such as photography, journaling and visual narrative.
In addition to her role as a researcher, Busanich also teaches courses in nutrition, exercise psychology, sport psychology and health promotion for the Health and Human Performance Department. Her passion for the field is also demonstrated in her own active lifestyle, as a distance runner and yoga/pilates enthusiast.


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I found this little four-leaf clover in a cache of costume jewelry at my aunt's house. It is broken, no longer bearing the pin part that once let it be worn. The decorative cloisonné of it's leaves is also chipped. It shows its age and has lost some if it's utility but it is still a handsome and significant piece, a small and interesting ornamental fragment, especially at this time of year.
As I couldn't think of how to wear it I used it as a model this St. Patrick's Day. I captured this image as the sun broke from the sheltering clouds and shone across a gold colored table drape. I liked the substance it gave to the little clover pin, the depth of its shadows, the way the sunshine highlighted the superficial nicks and imperfections.
I brightened the original image a little. Then I filtered it and posterized the clover for definition, engaging the way the light brought shades from the color of the leaves and the way the chipped flecks gave a charming sort of sage patina to the piece. In fact, in this case I think it is the way the light enhances the flaws and inevitable consequences of age that adds interest and texture to the finished image.
I've read that each leaflet of a clover symbolizes something: the first faith, the second hope, the third love and the fourth luck. Perhaps finding this small curio will bring me a measure of good luck. Luck has certainly been with this old pin, at least in its ongoing ability to charm and endure. Though it is old, and in some ways broken, it wears its age nobly and is still treasured. May we all be so lucky!


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Many of you will remember when Amway recognized the work of Jim and Nancy Dornan and Network TwentyOne affiliated Amway IBOs/ABOs last April with their write up about Power Soccer and the Fernando Foundation. Well Amway has once again taken notice of the amazing work and generosity of Network TwentyOne affiliated IBOs/ABOs from around the world with a new write up on Network Of Caring. For those of you who may not have heard, Network Of Caring is the charitable organization created by Jim and Nancy Dornan in partnership with Network TwentyOne
Continue reading Amway Spotlights Network TwentyOne's Network Of Caring


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Archive for category Reviews
Review! Searching for Gertrude by @dehaggerty
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Book News, Historical Fiction, Reviews on January 23, 2018
While growing up in Germany in the 1930s, Rudolf falls in love with the girl next door, Gertrude. He doesn't care what religion Gertrude practices but the Nazis do. When the first antisemitic laws are enacted by the Nazi government, Gertrude's father loses his job at the local university. Unable to find employment in Germany, he accepts a position at Istanbul University and moves the family to Turkey.
Rudolf, desperate to follow Gertrude, takes a position working at the consulate in Istanbul with the very government which caused her exile. With Rudolf finally living in the same city as Gertrude, their reunion should be inevitable, but he can't find her. During his search for Gertrude, he stumbles upon Rosalyn, an American Jew working as a nanny in the city. Upon hearing his heartbreaking story, she immediately agrees to help him search for his lost love.
Willing to do anything in their search for Gertrude, they agree to work for a British intelligence officer who promises his assistance, but his demands endanger Rudolf and Rosalyn. As the danger increases and the search for Gertrude stretches on, Rudolf and Rosalyn grow close, but Rudolf gave his heart away long ago.
How far would you go to find the woman you love?
Book Links:
This was my first time experiencing a novel written by this author, and it was a memorable one.
I'm a geek when it comes to the greatest generation, and I tend to over-analyze books set in the era. However, I'm also a true fan of romance. Haggerty blends the two beautifully, making this a mesmerizing novel that can't be put down.
The entire story is entrancing, the setting is perfect, and the trials and tribulations our characters endure are believable. Historical events are a pivotal part of the story, instead of being thrown in as background noise, and they're intelligently written. There's never a lull, and the author puts you in that time and place. I was hooked from the beginning and just hated to put it down!
Perfect book for fans of Historical Romance, and lovers of the era.
Highly recommend!
*I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
About This Literary Chef
Release Day! LOVE'S COURAGE by Elizabeth Meyette @efmeyette
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Book News, Historical Fiction, Reviews on January 9, 2018
She had to leave him to save her father.
He had to follow her to save his heart.
Jenny Sutton leaves Williamsburg, Virginia and Andrew Wentworth, the man she loves, and sets sail for British occupied Manhattan to tend to her dying father. Aboard the Destiny, Jonathon Brentwood makes a request of Jenny that will entangle her in the network of spies serving the Patriot cause. With her father already under suspicion, Jenny's activities must be hidden from the watchful eyes of British troops. But she has caught the eye of British officer Lieutenant Nigel Ashby, who is aware of her sympathies, yet offers her protection through marriage. Only by accepting his proposal will Jenny avoid the hangman's noose … and lose Andrew forever.
Desperate to join—and protect—Jenny, Andrew Wentworth agrees to deliver messages to Patriot troops on his journey to New York. His route brings him face to face with those suffering under British rule. The fight for independence and his desire to reach Jenny become intertwined.
Arriving in Manhattan, Andrew is arrested as a spy by the British officer coercing Jenny into marriage. She may be saved from the gallows, but will Andrew?
As war rages around them, Jenny and Andrew must find the courage to fight for their new country's freedom and their own eternal love.
What an exciting novel!
While I'm a fan, this author never ceases to amaze me. Time after time, she produces a solid story line, with the perfect setting, background, beginning, middle and end. Intrigue, love, death, and even espionage are perfectly written. The anticipation kills me, but doesn't torture me-that's when you know you're in the hands of expert. Sensual situations are pleasant, very tasteful, and very satisfying. Villains are appropriately placed and perfectly evil.
Everything was spot-on, here. From the apothecary to the weather, Meyette's historical knowledge shines beautifully. The characters are lovely, and I felt their heartbreak, as well as their triumphs. Growing up a few miles behind the Cornwallis House, and raised in an historic town, made me quite familiar with this era. Reading this novel brought it all back to life again. I couldn't put it down!
Such a brilliantly written novel, with a plethora of redeeming qualities! Definitely recommend!
I received this novel in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
**As usual, I must warn of triggers-violence, death, murder, sexual situations, and war are present**
About This Literary Chef
Author, blogger and believer in dreams-come-true, Elizabeth Meyette fell in love with books as a child when her sister read her Goldilocks and the Three Bears. "She had me at 'Once upon a time…'," Elizabeth admits. A native of upstate New York, Elizabeth now lives in West Michigan with her husband Richard. She retired early from teaching to pursue her passion: writing. "Yes, I hear voices in my head and I give them names and call them characters."
Check out her other FABULOUS novels-You'll love them!
Amazon Author Page
Review: Forever Gentleman by Roland Colton
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Reviews on July 13, 2017
Publisher: Anaphora Literary Press
Release Date: July 11, 2016
In a style reminiscent of nineteenth-century authors, Forever Gentleman is a sweeping saga of suspense, romance, mystery, and music. Travel back in time and experience Victorian London at its best and worst—a city of beauty and brilliance, and a city steeped in filth and despair. Meet Nathan Sinclair, a struggling young architect and gifted pianist who lives in the two vastly different worlds, mingling in high society while dwelling in suffocating debt and poverty. While performing at a gathering of London's elite, Nathan meets Jocelyn Charlesworth, a breathtakingly beautiful but temperamental celebrity heiress. He is smitten, though she publicly humiliates him; their paths will intersect again in a most shocking manner.
Full of unexpected twists and turns, the book races towards a thrilling climax that will determine Nathan's ultimate destiny.
A wonderful novel for lovers of classical music and historical fiction.
The story line here captured me so immensely, I lost track of time, and reality, on several occasions. I was quick to put the world on hold until I could finish the sentence I was reading. It's terrible that some just don't understand the power of a good book, and this is definitely one I recommend. I was reminded of several works of classical music that I'd forgotten years ago, and gifted the title of undiscovered melodic treasures.
The characters are intriguing, and Mr. Colton's writing is wonderfully versatile. Setting is true to the Era, there's no unnecessary filler, and I hated to put this down.
I received a copy of this wonderful novel in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
*Due to my illness, this review was well over-due, and my apologies go out to Roland Colton AND Paula Margulies*
An experienced trial attorney and musician, Roland Colton attended the University of Utah on a baseball scholarship, graduating cum laude in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. He received his Juris Doctorate from the University of San Diego School of Law in 1978, where he received scholarships and awards for academic excellence. An avid pianist and composer, Colton performs for public and private gatherings around the world. He resides in Southern California and France. Forever Gentleman is his first novel.
Beauty of the Beast by @RachelLDemeter
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Book News, Reviews on March 28, 2017
Experience the world's most enchanting and timeless love story—retold with a dark and realistic twist.
Reclusive and severely scarred Prince Adam Delacroix has remained hidden inside a secluded, decrepit castle ever since he witnessed his family's brutal massacre. Cloaked in shadow, with only the lamentations of past ghosts for company, he has abandoned all hope, allowing the world to believe he died on that tragic eve twenty-five years ago.
Caught in a fierce snowstorm, beautiful and strong-willed Isabelle Rose seeks shelter at a castle—unaware that its beastly and disfigured master is much more than he appears to be. When he imprisons her gravely ill and blind father, she bravely offers herself in his place.
Stripped of his emotional defenses, Adam's humanity reawakens as he encounters a kindred soul in Isabelle. Together they will wade through darkness and discover beauty and passion in the most unlikely of places. But when a monster from Isabelle's former life threatens their new love, Demrov's forgotten prince must emerge from his shadows and face the world once more…
Perfect for fans of Beauty and the Beast and The Phantom of the Opera, Beauty of the Beast brings a familiar and well-loved fairy tale to life with a rich setting in the kingdom of Demrov and a captivating, Gothic voice.
Beauty of the Beast is the first standalone installment in a series of classic fairy tales reimagined with a dark and realistic twist.
Disclaimer: This is an edgy retelling of the classic fairy tale. Due to strong sexual content, profanity, and dark subject matter, including an instance of sexual assault committed by the villain, Beauty of the Beast is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
🎬 Book Trailer 🎬
🥀 Review 🥀
Once again, this author delivered an extraordinary novel!
I am an avid fan of Beauty and the Beast, but I feel that Rachel Demeter has completed this story for adult women.
Adam and Isabelle are imperfectly perfect.
An extraordinary adaptation of the original bedtime story, Demeter writes with a sense of realism that brings you closer to the characters and their beautiful tragedies. The true nature of the story is elevated to a more mature level with remarkable skill, making this an intense read that's impossible to put down. I simply love this novel, and I'm convinced that the author lives and breathes historical fiction, as it is definitely her forte.
The characters are enchanting, the story is engrossing, and the ending wraps up beautifully! You will not regret reading this novel. A MUST READ!
🥀 Excerpt 🥀
~ The East Tower ~
Arms sprang out from the darkness. They spun her full circle and slammed her body against the king's portrait. Isabelle gasped, more in shock than from pain, as she stared into Adam's deformed face. The lantern flickered behind his massive form, casting his cloaked body in silhouette. But she saw enough to know he was far from pleased. Rage and frustration radiated from his body like a palpable force.
"I warned you to stay out of here," he said, his voice dangerously cold and deep. Those rugged vocals vibrated against her body and seeped into her marrow. "What part of forbidden didn't you comprehend?" His voice lashed out from the darkness like a hurtled knife, and the word "forbidden" seemed to whisper another meaning altogether. Isabelle tried to answer but failed to find her voice. Indeed, her vocal cords had turned to solid ice, as numb and cold as the blood rushing through her veins. She couldn't breathe; she felt like she was suffocating.
"My mother gave me that musical box on my fourth birthday," he said, the sensual lull of his voice causing the fine hairs on her nape to stand erect. "And now your recklessness has destroyed it. Have you nothing to say?"
"I—I'm sorry." He offered no reply; only the ragged sound of his breathing and the hammering blizzard broke the silence. "Please—I didn't mean any harm."
She struggled under the weight of Adam's colossal body and battled to free herself. He merely gave a low chuckle and pressed her firmly against the portrait. He looked otherworldly at that moment, like an angel of death seeking vengeance. Both beautiful and monstrous, his cool, sapphire eyes overflowed with warring emotions. In spite of his harsh and ruthless exterior, she detected a quaver in his voice and saw that his large, cloaked shoulders trembled. The darkness in his soul cast a shadow that embraced her; as she peered up at him, she knew he was drowning in the turbulent waters of a past time.
"What a disappointment," he went on, his voice growing deeper still, mocking her words from so many days ago, "You're like any other woman."
"I—I'm sorry. Please, Adam. I—" Her gaze shot past his body and over the wreckage of a past life. She thought of her private chamber again—of the stale perfumes and outdated garments.
Her flight or fight instinct seized hold of her. She attempted to scramble free, but he merely grabbed her shoulder and whirled her back against the portrait. Gloves wrapped his hands; his long, silk-clad fingers grasped her shoulder and kept her firmly in place.
He stood intimately close.
Far too close.
As close as Raphael had been that night.
"Going somewhere, ma belle? After you've worked so hard to find my East Tower?"
Hands like two steel bands held her wrists in place. Hot breaths, which faintly smelled of wine, seared her cheeks and assaulted her senses. Her breasts flattened against the pressure of his strong chest, and she felt that same chest swell and deflate in perfect sync with her own. One large hand slipped down her elbow and glided across her extended arm. The lush material of his gloves drew a shudder from her heaving chest. His breathing grew more ragged, shallower, and the erratic beat of his heart banged against her own.
Anger and desire warred on his face, twisting his features into a mess of both monster and man. "Find anything of interest, aside from my musical box? Come, come. You went through such great trouble to get here," he asked, his voice now threaded with both anger and something else.
Yes, Isabelle recognized that something else. It was the same note that had entered Raphael's voice that night…
She attempted to duck under his arm, but he moved swiftly, capturing her in the crook of his elbow. Reeling her toward him, he emitted a low, haunting chuckle that swelled the eastern tower to its rafters. She was back where she'd started—pinned against the portrait, Adam's body serving as a flesh-and-blood blockade.
Hunger radiated from him, enfolding her in a current of sizzling power. His silk-clad hand grazed the curve of her breast as it moved down her body in a painfully slow caress. Even more alarming was her reaction to him. Her treacherous body responded with a crush of hot and cold pulsating waves. Then he whispered a taunt in her ear, and his liquid baritone slid down her backbone like honey; it swirled inside her, finding its home in her most intimate area.
He leaned closer still. His face's uneven skin brushed against her neck, the black waves of his hair tickled her chin… His thick arousal expanded against her, reminding her of what he was capable of—and of her sheer vulnerability.
His lips teased the base of her throat. Cursing her traitorous body, Isabelle gasped at the gentle scraping of his teeth. His tongue and lips tormented her throbbing pulse—just barely, stirring her skin in a mere ghost of a touch.
🥀 Meet the Author 🥀
Rachel L. Demeter lives in the beautiful hills of Anaheim, California with Teddy, her goofy lowland sheepdog, and her high school sweetheart of fourteen years. She enjoys writing poignant romances that challenge the reader's emotions and explore the redeeming power of love.Imagining dynamic worlds and characters has been Rachel's passion for longer than she can remember. Before learning how to read or write, she would dictate stories while her mother would record them for her. She holds a special affinity for the tortured hero and unconventional romances. Whether crafting the protagonist or antagonist, she ensures every character is given a soul.
Rachel endeavors to defy conventions by blending elements of romance, suspense, and horror. Some themes her stories never stray too far from: forbidden romance, soul mates, the power of love to redeem, mend all wounds, and triumph over darkness.
Her dream is to move readers and leave an emotional impact through her words.
🥀Enter the Giveaway🥀
Blog Tour Stop & GIVEAWAY! Obsession by Helen Hardt
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Book News, Reviews on July 22, 2016
Book: Obsession (Steel Brothers Saga #2)
Author: Helen Hardt
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: 19th July
Jade Roberts is in love with Talon Steel but no longer welcome in his home. While she resolves to move on, she still longs for the passion she and Talon shared…and when her boss asks her to dig up information on the Steels, she's only too happy to comply. Talon and his brothers are hiding something, and Jade is determined find out what it is.
The moment Talon saw Jade he wanted her, ached for her, craved her…and now his desire has become his obsession. He knows she deserves better than his broken soul, but he can't stay away from her, and he finally confesses his love. If he and Jade are to have a future, he knows he must make peace with the dark shadows and horrors of his past.
But as Talon begins his journey of healing, Jade uncovers some startling secrets…
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I thoroughly enjoyed this read!
When it comes to a hook, this author's a genius! The story line contains extremely deep content, which acted as an anchor, keeping me glued to the pages. The characters are believable, the angst palpable, and the sensual scenes are erotic, but tasteful. The hero is one I kind of hate to love, but it's inevitable. With alternating POVs, I found this an intriguing story that packs a dramatic punch!
**There are triggers, for those in need of caution.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
USA Today Bestselling author Helen Hardt's passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn't stopped since. In addition to being an award winning author of contemporary and historical romance and erotica, she's a mother, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry's ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her family. Helen loves to hear from readers.
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Review Blitz! Witch of the Cards by Catherine Stine
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Book News, Reviews, Uncategorized on May 26, 2016
Witch of the Cards by Catherine Stine
5/23 – 5/27
Fiera was born a sea witch with no inkling of her power. And now it might be too late.
Witch of the Cards is historical, supernatural romantic suspense set in 1932 on the Jersey shore. Twenty-two year-old Fiera has recently left the Brooklyn orphanage where she was raised, and works in Manhattan as a nanny. She gets a lucky break when her boss pays for her short vacation in Asbury Park. One evening, Fiera and her new friend Dulcie wander down the boardwalk and into Peter Dune's Tarot & Séance, where they attend a card reading.
Fiera has always had an unsettling ability to know things before they happen and sense people's hidden agendas. She longs to either find out the origin of her powers or else banish them because as is, they make her feel crazy. When, during the reading, her energies somehow bond with Peter Dune's and form an undeniable ethereal force, a chain of revelations and dangerous events begin to unspool. For one, Fiera finds out she is a witch from a powerful sea clan, but that someone is out to stop her blossoming power forever. And though she is falling in love with Peter, he also has a secret side. He's no card reader, but a private detective working to expose mediums. Despite this terrible betrayal, Fiera must make the choice to save Peter from a tragic Morro Cruise boat fire, or let him perish with his fellow investigators. Told in alternating viewpoints, we hear Fiera and Peter each struggle against their deep attraction. Secrets, lies, even murder, lace this dark fantasy.
I enjoyed this witchy novel!
This is an excellent read for fans of H/F and the occult. Setting is detailed expertly, and the tempo progresses with each page nicely. I'm not particularly fond of the hero, but he started to grow on me towards the end. I'm a sucker for the details, anything including witches, and historical fiction. This was my cup of tea.
A fun read!
Catherine Stine's novels span the range from futuristic fantasy to paranormal to contemporary. Her futuristic thriller companion novels Fireseed One and Ruby's Fire are both indie award winners. Her paranormal-horror YA, Dorianna won Best Horror Book in the Kindle Hub Awards. Her YA contemporary Heart in a Box is an Amazon Top 100 in Teen.
She also writes new adult fiction as Kitsy Clare (see her separate GR Kitsy Clare page for 18+). Her Art of Love series featuring artist Sienna Karr, includes Model Position and Private Internship.
She suspects her love of dark fantasy came from her father reading Edgar Allen Poe to her when she was a child. Learn more at www.catherinestine.blogspot.com,www.catherinestine.com, and on her Catherine Stine and Kitsy Clare FB author pages.
More Ways to Contact Catherine Stine:
NEW RELEASE! THE GIRL IN MY DREAMS by LOGAN BYRNE
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Book News, Reviews, YA Fiction on April 12, 2016
When your girlfriend is a ghost visiting you in your dreams, life is anything but ordinary.
Seventeen-year-old Theodore Quinn has never had it easy. His dad recently left his mother and him, he's not exactly Mr. Popular at school, and he's never had a girlfriend—that is, until a chance encounter leads to a reconciliation with his childhood best friend and neighbor, Annabelle, whom he's loved for as long as he can remember.
It's only after they start dating that his life seems to be heading in the right direction. But that all changes one snowy night when Annabelle is instantly killed in a car accident, leaving Theodore devastated and emotionally crippled. In the midst of his desperation to see Annabelle again, she visits him in his dreams, and life suddenly becomes worth living again. With things starting to look perfect once more, Theodore must decide between living in his dreams forever, or facing reality and moving forward with a life he knows he'll never truly have with her.
I received a copy of this novel from Kindle Scout in exchange for an honest review.
I was so excited to hear this novel was chosen to be published, as the excerpt on Kindle Scout had me extremely intrigued. The writing immediately pulled me into Theo's little world, which was quite wonderful. As Belle was introduced, she was the beautiful addition that made this novel complete. They're just lovely, both individually and as a couple. I was also quite impressed with the maturity of the entire cast, which helped make them relatable.
While the blurb explains the gist of the story, I was not prepared for the emotional punch in the gut. I cried. I cried reading a YA novel. Maybe I cried because I have a son about their age, or because I know the pain of losing a first love. I can say with certainty that this author captured raw emotion brilliantly.
To put it bluntly, my heart just broke for the main character. The narrative is from his POV, and he is a very sweet young man. He starts off with one friend, goes through a few months of being on top of the world, then, he ends up right where he started; madly in love with the girl he can't have. I do, however, love the resilience he exhibits.
In today's society, this is a clean novel I would definitely approve for ages thirteen-plus.
Logan Byrne is an author of young adult fiction. He currently resides in Northern Illinois, though has aspirations to move to a large city, one where most of his stories take place.
If you want to know when he releases new books the very second they go live, sign up for his e-mail newsletter! It's free!
REVIEW: A KINDLED WINTER by @RachelLDemeter
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Book News, Reviews on March 29, 2016
Black Lyon Publishing, LLC
Released: November 1, 2015
A week before Christmas, Jeseca Reed sets off for Blue River, Oregon—her childhood home and a vault of tender memories. However, fate takes an unexpected turn when she's left stranded in the mountains' vast, untamed wilderness. Desperate and alone, she seeks shelter at a cottage and finds herself in the arms of a mysterious stranger.
Dr. David Drake was once a renowned cardiovascular surgeon. But a devastating tragedy has left him scarred both inside and out, unable to use his hands to operate again. For the past five years, his Blue River cottage has been his sole escape—a safe haven where he can shut out the world, bury himself in his grief, and reunite with his son's memory.
Together they are summer and winter. Fire and ice. And yet a poignant connection forms between them. Jeseca awakens David and thaws his heart with a romance hot enough to melt snow. But before David and Jeseca can fully embrace each other, they must wade through darkness and confront the ghosts of their pasts…
Equal parts steamy and heartfelt, A Kindled Winter brings the spirit of the holidays to life with a passionate story of second chances and healing love.
I'd like to apologize to Rachel Demeter for the delay in reviewing this wonderful novel.
I was a lucky enough to receive a copy of this beautiful novel in exchange for an honest review.
Simply, a wonderful story that's hard to put down! The focus stays on the couple, with no interruption, and flows quite smoothly. Sensual scenes are naughty and divinely descriptive, but tasteful. There was a point in the story in which I wanted to put this down because it tore me apart, but I just couldn't stop reading. Jeseca and David were well written, and easily acceptable as every-day people. Their struggle resonated with me, and the emotional impact was powerful.
Demeter has the unique gift of making the emotion stand out, and has delivered another sweet romance born from the ashes of tragedy. I've yet to walk away unaffected by her writing.
Definitely recommend!
**Mature readers due to adult situations, death, and sex.**
Rachel L. Demeter lives in the beautiful hills of Anaheim, California with Teddy, her goofy lowland sheepdog, and her high school sweetheart of eleven years. She enjoys writing poignant romances that challenge the reader's emotions and explore the redeeming power of love.
Imagining dynamic worlds and characters has been Rachel's passion for longer than she can remember. Before learning how to read or write, she would dictate stories while her mother would record them for her. She holds a special affinity for the tortured hero and unconventional romances. Whether crafting the protagonist or antagonist, she ensures every character is given a soul.
Rachel endeavors to defy conventions by blending elements of romance, suspense, and horror. Some themes her stories never stray too far from: forbidden romance, soul mates, the power of love to redeem, mend all wounds, and triumph over darkness.
Her dream is to move readers and leave an emotional impact through her words.


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Three Questions: How significant is the role of the contact centre within a Digital Transformation (DX), what do vendors understand by the term 'Omni-Channel' and how important is this in the overall CX mix and here's a curve ball – what will be the impact of GDPR on the future role of the Contact Centre?
Customer Service Excellence (CX) is being touted as the new sales and marketing department and no business wanting to be taken seriously would not want to be making a big song and dance about their own 'Customer First' ethos.
At the same time, and some would say by extension, observers are increasingly touting the contact centre as playing a significant part in any Digital Transformation (DX) based on the premise that it is frequently the first point of contact the customer has with their supplier.
In this article we'll be looking at how call and contact centres can contribute towards that strategy by asking three key questions:
How significant is the role of the contact centre within a Digital Transformation (DX)?
"Is Customer Service the New Sales and Marketing? Definitely," says Phil Reynolds, CTO at Oak Innovation.
"Customer centric business strategies are increasingly important and organisations today recognise that a 'customer led' approach will result in a better understanding of what users want from their products and services. If you can also establish where the user pain points are it becomes far easier to develop your own offerings to meet those needs.
This customer first approach is a key and constituent part of the transition from working in departmental silos to one of adopting the wider business perspectives that can be gained from collaborative working and overall, it is a key element in a Digital Transformation.
If you then consider that often the first point of contact a company has with its customer base is via the contact centre it immediately becomes obvious that the experience each customer has must be excellent.
As enterprises undertake their transformations they need to take on board not just this ethos but also the technology to support, or even initiate, the processes and work-flows required to achieve their own customer service excellence (CX) goals.
We would therefore say that Customer Service could indeed be seen as the new Sales and Marketing, not least because the providing of valuable customer feedback and ideas for new products that were once hidden deep in the marketing silo are now coming from and being confirmed by new, additional sources.
And remember, good ideas are not the preserve of marketing nor any other single departmental silo."
Steve Tutt at VanillaIP says their view is that Digital Transformation is driving the interconnectedness of the modern world, and that in turn is having an impact on how users behave and what their expectation is in terms of support channels and contact with businesses.
"For many of our customers this can blur the definition of 'product' to not just be about the tangible customer item or service but to be about the quality of the experience their customers are having in dealing with them. For example, just look at all the unboxing videos the millennials are posting on YouTube; it's about more than the product itself, it's the experience. As the technology provider for these customer touch points, the channel can help customers provide warmer interactions for their users.
The crucial element for optimising customer experiences is context. Where the Agent is informed about who the customer is and what they want before the contact is delivered speeds up the transaction and adds value for the end user. Currently we can profile all calls into the call centre against the CRM, such as Salesforce or Microsoft Dynamics, allowing the Supervisor to prioritise leads to the top of the queue or move them to a VIP queue. That's very powerful for customers."
Gary Bennett, VP Sales, EMEA Enghouse Interactive, says that the contact centre has undergone a digital transformation over recent years – and as the public face of many organisations, it often acts as a catalyst, helping to bring the rest of the business with it.
"The phrase, 'contact centre' still conjures up, in many imaginations, a massive open plan office, with people packed like battery hens with their headsets on, answering routine questions, or providing basic information around balance updates; changes of address and meter readings, for example. It's an increasingly outdated perception.
Today, in the era of digital transformation, many of these simpler tasks are done by customers themselves through self-service channels. Take the airline experience, for example, people are increasingly checking in with mobile apps, printing their own boarding passes, or using the QR code on their phone to help them board a plane. They only interact with a human when they effectively 'fall out of the normal parameters and boundaries', if their luggage is too heavy or there are delays to their flight, for example.
The success of self-service in the new digital age has led to a changed role for the contact centre. With the simple routine tasks now taken care of, the centre and the agents working there, have become the public face of the business, focused on solving increasingly complex problems. That of course means that they are going to need more advanced skillsets, and to be empowered to make decisions in real time. More importantly still, they can act as the gateway to the wider organisation, with the knowledge and skill to understand presence and route queries to the relevant stakeholders."
What do vendors understand by the term 'Omni-Channel' and how important is this in the overall CX mix?
Commenting on the need for an Omni Channel strategy Phil Reynolds says that this can be difficult for many firms to manage effectively.
"We know that users will attempt to contact their suppliers using the medium or method they are most familiar and comfortable with. For many this will still be the telephone but for other cohorts the telephone will be the last resort and used only when other methods have failed.
Today there is a trend towards using artificial intelligence (AI) – frequently presented in the form of Chat Bots, to handle user queries. Many users are entirely happy with this but enterprises need to recognise that Bots tend to address the lower hanging customer service fruit – essentially the 'easy stuff'. And whilst that is great in itself the other side of that coin is that all the 'hard and difficult stuff' is left over for the real live agents in the contact centre to handle.
In practice this means that the enterprise must increase the call handling skill sets of their agents for these more awkward and challenging calls and/or deploy an effective skills based routing regime.
Further management issues can be encountered in how different contact methods are handled. In particular, the response times, queuing and integration of multiple contact form factors in to a coherent user response mechanism that solves their problems. This is all surmountable but should be anticipated by the contact centre."
Tim Mercer, CEO of Vapour Cloud, says it must be acknowledged that contact centres play a significant role in leading the CX, particularly because they often represent the first point of entry to a business.
"Consumers are demanding an increasingly omni-channel experience, to suit them (not the brand!) and they expect the comms to be seamless (especially because technological advances mean it needn't be anything but). This can mean dialogue which goes far beyond the telephone, i.e. it integrates social media conversation too for instance, as well as SMS, Facebook, email and more.
Some contact centres are embracing omni-channel wholeheartedly and have even started to integrate recording features that analyse and report on the statistics to aid further strategic improvements. But others are behind the curve, e.g. they're failing to admit the role that social media plays, for instance, or they're embracing social media but it exists disparately to the rest of the contact centre comms strategy. Many contact centres therefore need to adopt this strategy, become more agile and rely on modern tech to do the 'grunt' work."
Steve Tutt at VanillaIP believes that more channels will come on-stream based on user preference and ultimately that will decide what is required by omni-channel rather than the vendors.
"WhatsApp have announced they are piloting a business version which could see WhatsApp queues replace SMS queues into contact centres and become a requirement for omni.
Going forward the importance for customers will not be what channels they can support into the contact centre but how can they visualise their user contact across different platforms. So, marrying up cookies for webchat and browsing history, inbound CLI to call centre and email queues. Then we will be in marketing Valhalla! But it does raise the question, where does the contact centre end and the CRM begin?"
David Rowlands, Contact Centre Sales Director UK and EMEA at 8×8 believes that the traditional contact centre is changing.
"Our research revealed that there are currently 766,000 people working in contact centres in the UK but there are a further 4.6 million staff dealing with customer service enquiries, who don't work in a traditional contact centre. Businesses are also developing outbound contact centres as a form of sales/marketing. All this means the modern contact centre is moving from a segmented part of a business that deals with interactions, to be at the heart of the operation.
If a business is looking to transform itself digitally, its contact centre should be front of mind. The contact centre is increasingly becoming the only place that customers interact directly with a brand, more specifically with the people on the front line that represent it."
According to Chris Berry, Managing Director of Liquid Voice, Omni-channel is now becoming a prerequisite for technology providers who must be able to demonstrate that their solutions allow all channels to be captured and stored on a single platform.
"For resellers of interaction recording, quality management and content analytics, it is important that they partner with suppliers such as Liquid Voice, which have the technical ability and proven experience of integrating their systems into these environments. Liquid Voice makes it easy for resellers to increase revenues in this area by providing the highest level of pre- and post-sales support for every deployment."
And here's a curve ball – what will be the impact of GDPR on the future role of the Contact Centre?
Reynolds says that the May 2018 introduction of the EU's GDPR will pose many challenges for UK business and many issues will be contact centre specific.
"It is clear from what we know that user and customer data protection is at the heart of the GDPR and that positive affirmation of agreement by customers to the use of their data must be in place before it can be stored and used. Clearly this will impact many aspects of a contact centre including the recording of customers calls.
Many observers are saying that call recording must be allowed to continue; agents are incentivised on continual performance improvement so without that performance monitoring customer service levels will turn into a race to the bottom.
We believe there will be a number of challenges to the GDPR in the courts as fines for non-compliance start to be handed out and it will only be at that point – when reality meets regulation head on, that we will begin to fully understand the wider implications of the rules."
Legislative changes cannot be ignored according to Tim Mercer at Vapour Cloud.
"GDPR for example, will force call and contact centres to change their operations and processes, not just from a data storage perspective but also with regard to PCI/DSS level 1 compliance if taking credit/debit card transactions – even if that information is not retained!"
Gary Bennett at Enghouse Interactive believes that GDPR will have a significant impact on various aspects of contact centre operations today.
"GDPR will, for instance, place tighter regulations on how these calls are managed, and with fines as high as €20 million, or up to 4% of global turnover, there are serious implications for any company found in breach of the rules. Individuals will have a right to request access to any personal data stored by the organisation – even if this is in the form of a voice recording. Businesses will need to make sure that, if required, they can identify, access and delete any recording that includes a customer's personal information."
David Rowlands, Contact Centre Sales Director UK and EMEA at 8×8, says the GDPR is the new industry paranoia.
"Last year the rise of bots was thought to be a perceived threat to agent FTE and caused a similar stir in the world of comms. What GDPR is doing is forcing contact centres to focus on security and compliance. People need to rethink what they are doing with customer data. Complying to new rules does not mean the role of the contact centre will change, but the importance of security will increase with time."
Ed Says
Analyst firm Forrester said recently that tectonic shifts in the market follow a relatively similar pattern: We see hints of it, we talk about it, we continue to talk about it, leaders act to gain first-mover advantage, and others talk and slowly accept the reality on the ground and start to move —hopefully not too late.
The question for most companies and business leaders is not if, but when and how do I take steps to achieve CX.
Companies across industries and regions are feeling the consequences of a customer-centric market that moves fast. For some, it represents an existential threat to their very survival; for most, it represents immediate and possibly prolonged revenue risk..
David Dungay
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