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If you're a Swing Juice fan that happens to read the blog and get our newsletter, you've likely seen we've been trying to get an equipment review component off the ground for our blog. As much as I love my buddies Joe and Mike, keeping up with their lives and throwing some blog content together was a tough task to keep up with. I'd love to take a stab at it myself, but with trying to grow the brand and keeping the new shirts coming, I know I wouldn't be able to deliver either. So that's why we decided to partner with our friends, Driving Range Heroes. You may recognize the DRH guys from seeing them around our blog as well as Plugged In Golf in the past. Our buddy Bill Bush that regularly brings us Have a Drink Friday and his partner Tommy O'Connell will be sharing content from DrivingRangeHeroes.com on our blog. Not only will they be posting some of their content on our blog but we'll also be working with them in the future to create different types of content whenever wherever we can. In the meantime, head over to their site HERE to check them out and keep your eyes peeled on SwingJuice.com to see what they're up to.
NM has already done its share for the nuclear age Published March 23, 2019 Albuquerque Journal North New Mexico is poised to become the Nuclear Waste Dump State for the United States. Nuclear waste from nuclear weapons and waste from commercial nuclear power reactors are all heading to our state if we don’t fight back. There are efforts by the Energy Department to magically change the long-standing classifications of high-level nuclear waste in order to find cheaper ways to address legacy waste. The Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) has worked to gain approval to change the way they measure the amount of waste allowed so they can bring even more transuranic waste to the facility. There are attempts to bring additional contaminants to WIPP that are outside of the original agreements made with the state. And now we face a new threat with the proposed Consolidated Interim Storage (CIS) site being planned for Eddy and Lea Counties to become the holding facility for high level nuclear waste from reactor sites across the United States for up to 120 years. Currently the Nuclear Waste Policy Act (NWPA) does not allow the private storage or ownership of high-level nuclear waste from commercial reactors. Unfortunately there is an effort to amend the NWPC to allow CIS of commercial waste until a permanent repository is established. The state of New Mexico has not conducted any serious environmental review of the project proposed by the Holtec Corporation. Some items raising red flags are listed below: - Holtec has no plan for repairing leaking canisters on-site or along the transport routes. They told the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) that they would return all leaking canisters back to the sender. - Transport by rail, barge, or highway across 38 states could begin without any uniform plans for accidents along the way. - There is no plan to inspect or replace storage canisters that are damaged at the reactor sites or subjected to corrosive elements in the atmosphere or ground beneath them and it may not be safe to try. - No usable technology currently exists to monitor the spent fuel canisters once they have been emplaced in storage containers. - A privately-owned and operated enterprise cannot guarantee that there will be no safety lapses or releases over an accumulated licensing period of 120 years, or even during the first 20 years in above-ground storage. Alternative remedies include storing the existing high level nuclear waste in sturdier thick-walled steel canisters that can be safely inspected for damage and repackaged and keep them at the reactor sites until a permanent repository is built. While checking on the lifespan of Holtec’s storage canisters, we found out that neither Holtec nor the NRC is willing to look at cask integrity beyond a 20-year licensing period. This is frightening news considering that untreated spent nuclear fuel must be isolated from air, water, and humans for hundreds of thousands of years. Damaged thin-walled canisters are already in place at nuclear reactor sites such as San Onofre in California, placing nearby residents and Pacific coastal communities at risk, not to mention accidental releases to ocean waters. Risking the possibility of more damage while removing them from their current storage site is unnecessary, and transporting these damaged containers to New Mexico magnifies the risks of accidental releases exponentially. If cracked and leaking nuclear waste storage canisters are props for a bad dream, then the dream of safely storing high level nuclear waste forever in containers that can’t be inspected or replaced is a nightmare beyond proportion. Don’t Waste New Mexico. We’ve already done our share for the nuclear age. Quit producing more high-level nuclear waste until a permanent repository for this dangerous and long-lived waste is designated. States and communities selected to host the waste must give their consent before any of this hazardous material is moved from the site that produced it. Susan Gordon, Multicultural Alliance for a Safe Environment Linda Evers, Post 71 Uranium Workers Committee Candace Head-Dylla, Bluewater Valley Downstream Alliance Edith Hood, Red Water Pond Road Community Association Petuuche Gilbert, Laguna Acoma Coalition for a Safe Environment Larry King, Eastern Navajo Diné Against Uranium Mining
What's the best tea you've ever tasted? This is one of the finest teas I've ever tasted, for my own palate. 来源：Austin Yoder 2013/12/28 发表于 The News Lens 关键评论网 Photo Credit: 陈镜 CHEN-CHING 翻译／红凯利 Today, we're going to go a little bit crazy. We're going to go a little bit off the wall, and dive as deeply as we possibly can into reviewing, breaking down, and analyzing one single tea. This post is going to get very detailed – with maybe more information & tasting notes than you'd usually read through. Who this post is for: serious tea drinkers and tea enthusiasts who are interested in learning a process to taste teas deeply and systematically. It's for hardcore tea fans & wine appreciators who love getting into the nitty gritty of what they're drinking. This is an in-depth tea review of Master Oolong Tea, from the Pure Hearts Seeking Tea Teahouse in Muzha, Taiwan. Every time we taste a tea seriously at Tearroir, we go through a systematic tasting process, breaking down each individual component of the tea. Scoring Breakdown: Oolong Tea Click here to read more about how we score our teas on a 100 point scale, the same way that people in the wine world score their wines. Flavor / Mid Palate: 9 Mouthfeel / Finish: 10 Overall Effect: 9 Overall Score: 98 Master family has been making tea for three full generations, a fact which clearly shines through in all of his teas. He takes extreme pride in producing teas of only the highest quality, and keeping his prices relatively low by selling teas out of the first floor of his own home, the home he was born and raised in, to avoid fees for commercial real estate. He has been making teas for the past 15 years, and regularly judges at local tea competitions. Master ran a printing shop for several years after graduating from college in Taiwan. One day he decided that he had had enough of the rat race, that the chemicals from his printing work were too harsh for his body, and that he wanted a simpler lifestyle. After he decided he wanted a change, he closed his business down inside of 24 hours, and moved back to the house he grew up in to start a business. Gao Que is not only gifted in teamaking, he also produces a full range of artisanal drinking vinegars (the five-leaf pine vinegar almost made a local friend of mine cry from joy), and a fermented yellow bean tofu preserved in 100% pure alcohol, with the recipe fashioned after his own mother's tofu recipe. Gao Que buys his leaves from plantations throughout Taiwan based on the product he wants to make. He has established relationships with tea plantations all over the island. After carefully choosing the best quality tea leaves from his plantation suppliers, he handles the rest of the process himself, occasionally employing the aid of his wife and two daughters. Master Oolong tea is roasted quite heavily, because as Master says, that is precisely what the tea calls for. While examining the balled tea leaves pre-brew, you get a real sense for how much care went into his tea. It's color, size, spread, are all remarkably uniform. The dark roasting prevents Oolong from appearing freshly picked like the more delicate Oolong teas from Lishan, Fushou Shan, Da Yu Ling, though it is both vibrant and pleasing to the eye. The nose has hints of light honey, warm melon, tobacco, and spices. You can tell from a deep whiff that this is a serious, bold tea which won't apologize for its long roasting. The nose hints at multiple levels of flavor and depth, beginning to unfurl through the nostrils and into the sinus cavities. The heaviness you see in the leaves pre-brew definitely comes through on the nose, though you also begin to sense that this heavy tea is well balanced by the lighter flavor tones I mentioned above: light honey, and warm melon. It's truly a delight to smell, and when you smell from the underside of the lid instead of from your glass, you also pick up sweet tones of milky, sugary candy. I have not tasted many teas with a more interesting and complex nose than this, which prompted me to give it a full 10 / 10. Flavor (Mid Palate) Mid palate, this tea is extremely true to its nose. I initially tasted honey and spices, and was overtaken by heavier tones of sweet tobacco and smokiness. While roasted extensively, this darker Oolong manages to retain much of the delicacy you'd only traditionally get from an extremely green high mountain Oolong like a Lishan or Fushou Shan. Master informs that this heavier flavor is quite suited to coffee drinkers, and those tasters who prefer big, bold flavors. It's a tea that will be in your face without knocking on your arse. The Oolong, though it can (and ought to be) tasted in a concentrated, focused environment without any distraction, could equally be consumed while hard at work during the day. Writers, designers, and those with a job that involves a desk can all take respite in bold styling. Mouthfeel & Finish Mouthfeel and finish are where Oolong truly exceeded my expectations, standing as a testament to his upbringing in tea. This tea is an extremely full bodied tea, though it begins lightly on your tongue. It starts off small, concentrated, and expands like a balloon being slowly blown up inside of your mouth. It reaches its fingers out, and curls them slowly around the edges of your tongue, pushing up gently on the roof of your mouth, and crawling down the back of your throat like crawling under silk sheets on a hot summer day. The finish is like a mellow energizer bunny – it kept going and going, but in a calming manner. As I was discussing the tea with David, I got multiple waves of beautiful finish. We would be talking And suddenly out of nowhere, bam, the second, third, and fourth wave of mouthfeel would Surface up. This tea stayed with me up to an hour after I finished the tasting, through errands and part of a Chinese class. Only skillfully produced teas prepared with good, soft, mineral water will stay with you for so long. I love it when teas do this, because I get to feel like I'm drinking the tea for twice as long as I sit down to taste it. If I taste for an hour, and the mouthfeel stays with me for an hour after I finish tasting the tea, that's two hours of beautiful Oolong-ness. Almost like a buy-one-get-one-free deal on mouthfeel. Quality & Conclusion The overall impression Master Oolong tea left on me was deep, long lasting, and overwhelmingly positive. I scored this tea 98 points, and have no trouble standing by that figure because of the tea's complex nose, mouthfeel, and finish. The leaves post brew were exceptionally springy, and uniformly complete. Very little stem-matter in the mix, so the vast majority of what you're drinking is pure tea. No broken leaves – they were all still fully formed, no particulate mixed in from unknown external sources, and it had an extremely clear finish on the aroma. This is one of the finest teas I've ever tasted, for my own palate. Question of the Day What's the best tea you've ever tasted? Sourse：Austin Yoder 2013/12/28 The News Lens Photo Credit: CHEN-CHING 陈镜
In ecology, as in comedy, timing is everything. Hours, minutes or even seconds can make the difference for an animal between stumbling upon a predator and avoiding one, between finding a bush loaded with berries and discovering branches that have already been gnawed bare. Mere moments can determine whether a raccoon comes face-to-face with a bobcat at night, whether a flock of cocky turkeys finds its field already occupied by cranes, whether a deer disappears into the trees before a coyote appears on the scene. An animal’s fortunes, and the health of entire ecosystems, can hinge on these ephemeral encounters — or lucky non-encounters. “An animal must be at the right place, at the right time, to avoid predators, find food, reproduce successfully,” said Neil Gilbert, a postdoctoral researcher at Michigan State University. In that way, the interactions between the animals in a given ecosystem are like a theatrical production, he said, adding, “For the production to be a success, each actor has to be onstage, in the right place, and they must act and deliver their lines at the right time.” Now, a new study reveals how humans might unwittingly rewrite these ecological scripts, altering how the characters interact and fueling more interspecies encounters. To conduct the study, Dr. Gilbert and his colleagues analyzed images captured by Snapshot Wisconsin, a citizen-science project run by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Since 2016, volunteers have deployed more than 2,000 wildlife cameras across the state, capturing tens of millions of images of Wisconsin’s fields, farms and forests — and the fauna that frequent them. Wild animals of different species were more likely to lead overlapping lives — appearing at local camera sites in quicker succession — in human-altered landscapes, like farms, than in more undisturbed locations, such as national forests, scientists reported in PNAS last month. Cameras caught episodes of (clockwise from top left) a coyote and a deer, a family of otters, an opossum confronting a deer, and a meeting of foxes.Credit…WI DNR Snapshot Wisconsin The finding suggests that human disturbance can squeeze animals closer together, increasing the odds that they bump into each other. “There’s a little less elbow room,” Dr. Gilbert said. Although more research is needed, that interspecies squeeze could have effects such as making it harder for prey to evade predators, intensifying competition for resources or increasing the risk of interspecies disease transmission, the researchers say. “The compression of species niches will likely lead to new interactions among species with unknown consequences,” Benjamin Zuckerberg, an ecologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an author of the study, said in an email. Strangers on a plain The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources created Snapshot Wisconsin in an effort to collect continuous, statewide data — at all hours of the day and during all seasons of the year — on local wild animal populations. It relies on an army of volunteer camera hosts to install, monitor and maintain wildlife cameras, on both public and private land across the state. The cameras, which are triggered by motion and body heat, have captured a menagerie of animals going about their everyday lives: bald eagles scavenging in the snow, bear cubs climbing trees, a newborn fawn, a bevy of otters gamboling down a grassy trail. “It’s just so many otters,” said Jennifer Stenglein, a quantitative research scientist at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and an author of the new study. (The department posts many of the photos on Zooniverse, an online citizen science platform, where volunteers from around the world can help identify the creatures in each shot.) Researchers analyzed nearly 800,000 images captured over four years. Clockwise from top left: raccoons and a deer share a watering hole; a skunk menaces two deer; an otter attempts to sup with raccoons; a deer and a house cat lock eyes.Credit…WI DNR Snapshot Wisconsin For the new study, the researchers analyzed nearly 800,000 photos of animals captured over the course of four years. To assess species “co-occurrence,” they calculated how much time elapsed between the moments when members of 74 species pairs — turkeys and deer, for instance, or coyotes and skunks — appeared at a given camera site. If coyotes and skunks are routinely showing up in the same place within an hour or a day of one another, they are more likely to have habitats and routines that overlap — and to encounter one another in the real world — than if days or weeks pass between appearances, the scientists reasoned. The time intervals between detections varied enormously. Sometimes the cameras captured the odd animal couples in the same frame; other times, days or weeks might pass between their appearances. But overall, across all animal pairs, the trend was clear: In relatively pristine habitats, such as national forests, roughly six days elapsed, on average, between detections. In the most human-altered habitats, that interval dropped to an average of four days. Over a three-month period, the researchers estimated, highly antagonistic pairs — that is, duos in which one species was likely to kill the other, such as bobcats and rabbits or foxes and squirrels — wouldencounter each other seven additional times in the most highly disturbed landscapes compared with the least disturbed ones. (Even when the animals do not come face-to-face, simply hearing or smelling a predator can have “dramatic effects” on the behaviors of prey species, Dr. Gilbert noted.) “It will be fascinating to see who will be the winners and who will be the losers in this human-compressed niche space,” Dr. Zuckerberg said. “For example, will prey and lesser competitors need to adapt new defenses or behaviors?” he wondered. Can they even do so? Clockwise from top left: bobcat vs. raccoon; elk vs. deer; a raccoon, startled by a deer; turkeys vs. sandhill crane. Credit…WI DNR Snapshot Wisconsin The scientists also found that much of the effect appeared to be driven by differences in relative abundance; species such as raccoons and squirrels tended to be more numerous in human-disturbed landscapes — where dumpsters overflow and fields are thick with grain — than in wilder ones. But these differences did not entirely account for the findings, suggesting that some species might also change their behavior in human-altered habitats, becoming active at different times of day or ranging less widely. (Animals with less space to roam would be more likely to collide, like gas particles in a shrinking vessel, Dr. Gilbert noted.) Still, many questions remain, including whether the findings generalize to other species and ecosystems and what, precisely, is happening when these creatures meet, even when the encounters are caught on camera. How did the bobcat chase off the coyote? Who won the skunk-raccoon face-off? And why does that deer look as if it’s about to kick a snarling opossum in the face? (“Like, what did this poor opossum do?” Dr. Gilbert wondered.) More broadly, are species like deer and raccoons actually engaging with one another when they meet on a dark trail? Or are they simply passing by, like sentient ships in the night? “It is difficult to fully tease apart,” Dr. Zuckerberg said. But the study illustrates the potential for using wildlife cameras to probe aspects of animal behavior that might otherwise be difficult to observe, Dr. Stenglein said. “We didn’t sit in the field and watch animals interact,” she said. “But there’s so much power in being able to use this trail camera data to understand how animals are behaving. It just, to me, opens up a floodgate of possibilities.”
The losing skid continues for the Tampa Bay Rays. Facing the Detroit Tigers in a primetime, FOX telecast, the Rays stumbled once again, surrendering 11 hits in a 6-2 defeat, the team's fifth loss in the last six contests and falling another game back of the New York Yankees in the A.L. East standings. Tampa Bay, though, did make a late rally. Trailing 4-0 while heading into the bottom half of the eighth, Jeff Keppinger and Carlos Pena launched solo home runs, respectively, to narrow the deficit to just two runs. But in the top of the ninth inning. the Tigers would punch in two runs off reliever Burke Badenhop to, largely, put the game out of reach. Rays' starter, Jeremy Hellickson, who left in the bottom of the third because of a bruised right shin following a line drive from Prince Fielder, was charged with the loss. The series finale is scheduled for Sunday at 1:40 p.m. EST.
Conservation-Education-Recreation on the Lower Yakima River Since 1995 Tapteal GreenwayOur mission: Promoting conservation, education and recreation along the lower Yakima River. Conservation Our conservation efforts include land acquisition, native plant restoration projects and stewardship of existing open space such as WE Johnson Park, Chamna Natural Preserve, and Amon Creek Natural Preserve. Recreation The primary focus of the Tapteal Greenway is the 31-mile corridor along the lower Yakima River extending from the Kiona Bend at Benton City to the mouth of the river at Bateman Island in Richland. Along the land trail portion of this corridor is the Tapteal Trail and the version on the river is identified as the Tapteal Water Trail. Education Our educational efforts reach students of all ages through attending school STEM nights, classroom visits, sponsoring field trips and our Wildlands Walk event. Tapteal Greenway Map Click on each of the locations below for more information Download Map 1 - Amon Basin 1 - Amon BasinAmon Creek Natural Preserve offers trails along the west fork of Amon Creek with overlooks of wetland, riparian and shrub-steppe habitat. Access to the south trailhead is via south Leslie Road in Richland while the north trailhead is located adjacent to the parking lot for Claybell Park off of Broadmoor Street. 2 - Bateman Island/Wye Park 2 - Bateman Island/Wye ParkBateman Island is a popular spot for fishing and bird watching. It is the starting point for the Tapteal Trail and ending point of the Tapteal Water Trail (at the Wye Park boat launch). Access is from Columbia Park Trail near Columbia Center Boulevard. 3 - Columbia Point South 3 - Columbia Point SouthUS Army Corps of Engineers property with wetlands and riparian habitat. Access from George Washington Way then east on Columbia Point Drive to Columbia Point Marina Park. 4 - Chamna Natural Preserve 4 - Chamna Natural PreserveA 276-acre park with a network of trails for hiking, mountain biking and riding horses as well as a Tapteal Water Trail site. Access off Aaron Drive via Jadwin Street south to Carrier Road. 5 - Duportail Trail 5 - Duportail TrailThe Duportail Trail connects Chamna to W.E. Johnson Park. The WDFW boat launch is a Tapteal Water Trail site (Discover Pass required). Access to the boat launch is off Duportail Street then north on Tanglewood Drive. 6 - W.E. Johnson Park 6 - W.E. Johnson ParkA 236-acre park that is very popular with equestrians. Main access is from the north off Van Giesen then south on Hall Road. Access from the south is off Tanglewood Drive. 7 - Tapteal Bend/Hyde Road Boat Launch 7 - Tapteal Bend/Hyde Road Boat LaunchThe Tapteal Bend property is owned by Tapteal Greenway and is the site of ongoing bank stabilization and habitat restoration efforts. The adjacent WDFW Hyde Road boat launch is a Tapteal Water Trail site (Discover Pass required). Access off Van Giesen then north on Kingston Road and west on Hyde Road. 8 - Snively Road 8 - Snively RoadThis WDFW boat launch is a Tapteal Water Trail site (Discover Pass required). Access off Twin Bridges Road then north on Snively Road. 9 - Horn Rapids Park 9 - Horn Rapids ParkThis Benton County park offers trails, fishing access, paved boat launch, restrooms, camping, and a remote control plane field. There are three Tapteal Water Trail sites in the park. Access off Hwy 225 near Hwy 240 junction. 10 - Benton City 10 - Benton CitySportman’s Park offers picnic area, restroom and paved boat launch and is the starting site of the Tapteal Water Trail. Access off First Street near Yakima River bridge.
CONCEPCION, Tarlac (March 5, 2023) — Concepcion-based jeepney associations will not join the strike starting tomorrow. This was the announcement by three transport cooperatives in their meeting with Mayor Noel Villanueva and Sangguniang Bayan Committee on Transportation Chairman Jayson Lagman yesterday afternoon in Barangay Sta. Maria. The Concepcion Angeles, Concepcion-Tarlac, and Concepcion-Capas cooperative transport groups signified their intention to ply their usual routes starting early Monday (tomorrow) morning but asked for security should other transport groups try to stop them. The transport strike from May 6 – 11, 2023, was called by various transport groups opposed to the national government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program. The Local Chief Executive assured the jeepney operators and drivers that security would be provided by the local police. He advised the drivers to ready their camera phones and record any harassments that they may encounter on the road. “Ang importante ay road security. Tarlac walang problema – sa Mabalacat ang crucial point,” Villanueva said. The 367-strong Concepcion-Angeles Jeepney Operators and Drivers Transport Service Cooperative (CAJODTSC) said they fear their jeepneys will be stopped in the City of Mabalacat, Pampanga. “Ikinatatakot namin ay ang maaaring maging harassment na gagawin sa amin pagdating sa may Mabalacat dahil maraming independent operators ang nandoon na kasali sa strike,” said Antonino Lansangan of CAJODTSC. “Kapag nangyari iyo ay mapipilitan din kaming tumigil sa pagpasada,” he added, amid agreements from other drivers and operators plying the Concepcion-Angeles route. PLtCol. Noriel Rombaoa, this town’s police chief, met with various transport groups here last Friday and assured them they would be on call should other groups harass them. Villanueva said he would contact other town and city mayors where the jeepneys ply their routes and prepare a contingency plan should the strike become a security issue. The mayor said that the public would be the ones who would be greatly affected by the transport strike but assured his constituents that the local government would do everything in its power to safeguard the public and help commuters. “Kung sakaling ma-disrupt ang transportation, hindi maaaring hindi ilabas lahat ng sasakyan ng munisipyo, pati na mga ambulansya,” Villanueva said. Meanwhile, classes in Tarlac City have been suspended by Mayor Cristy Angeles from March 6 – 10, 2023, in the face of the impending transport strike. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board said that only six percent of public utility vehicles nationwide are expected to join the transport strike. The transport strike is being spearheaded by Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (PISTON) and MANIBELA. PISTON and Manibela have a combined 170,000 members, which might paralyze transportation in major business centers.
An Empirical Harvest Strategy (HS) has been developed for the Tasmanian Abalone Fishery with the primary inputs being fishery-dependent catch rate data. This HS is based on a Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) framework, in the form of a simple weighted-sum approach. The HS has been reviewed (Buxton et al., 2015), and subjected to testing via Management Strategy Evaluation (Haddon and Mundy, 2016; Mundy et al., 2018b). This HS identifies aspirational targets for the fishery and attempts to manage the fishery towards that target. The HS is conditioned and run at the scale of individual reporting Blocks to arrive at a combined score, followed by a Control Rule to assign a recommended management action based on the combined score. Impacts of CPUE changes are taken into account when reviewing any changes in recommended biological catch suggested by the empirical Harvest Strategy. Selection of Performance Measures Over the past decade annual reviews of abalone fishery performance was through an expert driven, weight of evidence approach, considering magnitude of catch rates, trends in catch rates and spatial structure in the distribution of effort. The HS formalises the previously subjective process, by developing Reference Points (RP) for three Catch per Unit Effort (CPUE) performance measures (PM) previously evaluated in graphical form. In this assessment, the three performance measures used were: - Target CPUE – the current CPUE scored against a target CPUE defined by Block - Gradient1 – gradient of change in CPUE in the past 12 months (current year over the previous one year). - Gradient4 – gradient of change in CPUE over the past four years including year to date. Performance Measure Scoring Functions The scoring functions incorporate targets and limits that are analogous to classical target and limit reference points. A scoring function is established for each PM, with the value of the PM (e.g. Target CPUE) scoring between 0 and 10. For all PMs the target is always a score of 5, with 0 implying the worst under-performance and 10 the highest over-performance. The reference period for determining the upper and lower bounds (0 and 10) for the scoring functions was restricted to catch and effort data between 1992 and the year preceding the current year i.e. for the 2019 assessment year, the reference period is 1992 –2018. Prior to 1992 there were substantial differences in the reporting and return of catch dockets, such that the recorded daily effort prior to 1992 is not considered sufficient for assessment purposes. The observed range of each PM was determined over the reference period, and then that range was extended by 10% in either direction. The rationale for extending the observed range is that within the reference period, fishing pressure has not led to biological collapse of populations, thus using the actual range observed would risk creating an overly conservative Harvest Strategy. Learn more about the scoring functions for performance indicators (targets and limits) on our Stock Assessments Information Page. Performance Measure Weighting and Combined Score A level of importance is assigned to each PM in the Harvest Strategy, by applying a weighting variable. The PM weights can be varied according to the preferred strategy, to emphasis or dampen the contribution of the PMs. For example in a rebuilding phase a higher weight is given to the CPUE Target PM, whereas once the fishery has reached the CPUE Target, this variable can be down-weighted, and emphasis placed on the Gradient 4 PM to maintain continuity. The final combined index of performance is then a sum of the PM score x PM weight, for all PMs. Harvest Strategy performance measures and weights for this assessment Control Rule for TACC Adjustment A control rule system is applied to the composite score to determine the action to be taken. The control rule system proposed is based on a similar system suggested by Dichmont and Brown (2010). If the composite index score is close to the target score of 5, there is no change in TACC for a given spatial assessment unit (e.g. Block). A TACC reduction is required if the composite index score is less than 4.5, and a TACC increase may be taken if the score is greater than 6. Where the control rule results in a TACC decrease, the Control Rule specifies the minimum reduction required given the Composite Score, whereas for TACC increases, the Control Rule specifies the maximum increase. TACC increase could optionally not be taken if arguments can be rationalised to support the status quo (e.g. market dynamics). The logic here is that for long-lived species such as commercially exploited haliotids where adult mortality is relatively low, from a biological stand point there is little to be lost in delaying a TACC increase by 12 months. Control rule applied to combined performance management score. Consideration of individual scoring systems, weighting coefficients, the control rules and any constraints are on-going through a series of formal workshops with experienced fishers. This Harvest Strategy has been tested by Management Strategy Evaluation (Haddon et al., 2014) and found to be effective. Ongoing testing and exploration of the properties of the Performance Measures used here and any new Indicators, determination of Reference Points and revision of Control Rules is essential. Spatial Scale at which Harvest Strategy is Applied Each reporting Block (= spatial assessment unit) within a fishing zone has a different long term productivity and catch rate, thus the harvest strategy is applied to each Block. The zone-wide TACC is determined by summing the recommended catch to be taken from each Block. The question arises about which Block catch should be modified to determine the projected Block catch for the following year. In practice, the TACC decision made in yeart for the fishing yeart+1 must be made in October of yeart. Thus the final catch and CPUE for a given block is not known at the time of the decision, and the CPUE analysis must be conducted on either partial year data (January – September), or the full years data from the previous year (i.e yeart−1). When the fishery is declining or rebuilding rapidly, then there is a strong argument and preference by Industry to utilise all available data especially the data obtained in the year to date. In terms of the Block catch value that the adjustment will be applied to, when the analysis includes the partial year data, then the allocated catch for yeart (defined during the assessment in yeart−1) will form the base value for Block catch adjustment. Phase Plot Summary of Fishery Status Through Time A benefit of applying an empirical Harvest Strategy using performance measures with defined reference points, is the capacity to use internationally accepted tools for summarising fishery status such as the ’Kobe Plot’. For an empirical HS with no direct estimates of biomass or fishing mortality, we must use proxies for B and F. Currently there is no accepted proxy biomass in abalone fisheries. Here we use the catch-weighted Target CPUE PM score as a proxy for abundance, and the catch-weighted four-year Gradient CPUE PM score as a proxy for fishing mortality. The zone-wide proxy score is calculated by taking the catch-weighted arithmetic mean of the individual block proxy score. An abundance proxy (Target CPUE) score of one is defined as the limit reference point (LRP), and a value of 5 is defined as the threshold reference point (TRP). A negative zone gradient score gives evidence that fishing mortality is increasing and the magnitude of the gradient provides some information on the magnitude of fishing mortality. In order to use this proxy to emulate a normal Kobe Plot, five is subtracted from the 4-year Gradient PM score to provide a score range of −5 to +5, where the limit reference point is zero. The combination of a negative 4-year gradient and near-record low CPUE Target score represents a cautious proxy for the true recruitment overfished reference point. No reporting blocks have collapsed within the reference period, providing a degree of certainty that the LRP is conservative, which is supported by MSE testing of the HS. Catch rate based proxies for abundance should not be considered as a direct measure of biomass. Rather, we believe catch rates are a measure of the parity between the TACC and the available exploitable biomass.
With Halloween approaching and the rest of the holidays not far behind, sweets and treats are going to be just about everywhere, tempting us at every turn. While I don’t see anything wrong with the occasional indulgence, I still also maintain my concerns about the quality of ingredients in most treats. From loads of refined sugar to, often times if store-bought, a lengthy list of fillers, thickeners, “natural flavors”, soy products and who knows what else. There’s just no reason for it, especially when you can make your own. These Dark Chocolate Nut Butter Cups are ready in no time and you can customize the filling to your preferences. Choosing almond, cashew or peanut butter, or for nut allergies, simply swap in sunflower seed butter. We prefer super dark chocolate. Usually 85-90% around here, but if you’d rather use milk chocolate, that works, too! A sprinkle of sea salt on top is also our preference, smoke sea salt is even better if we have some. Though you could easily become a neighborhood celebrity with these, sadly it’s not be acceptable to hand out homemade treats to Trick or Treaters, but, they are a perfect option for switching out some of the candy your kiddos bring home, they also make a great gift and a perfect treat for sharing at any holiday or special occasion. Or Mondays. These chocolates are guaranteed to make your Monday better, promise! Dark Chocolate Nut Butter Cups - 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, I prefer 85% dark. I like this brand - 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil - ½ cup chilled unsweetened, unsalted almond butter* - 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, or raw honey - 1 tablespoon ground chia seeds, you can just grind whole chia seeds in a coffee grinder or Magic Bullet - pinch fine grain sea salt - flaked sea salt for on top, optional - Line a mini muffin tin with mini muffin cups. - In a small bowl add almond butter, ground chia seeds, the maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. Stir until well combined and place to the side. - Chop or break the chocolate into pieces and melt it in a double boiler (or place it in a bowl and microwave at 10 second intervals stirring in between each interval until melted.) Remove from the heat and stir the melted coconut oil into the melted chocolate. Mix well. - Drizzle about a teaspoon or so of melted chocolate into mini muffin cups then carefully use a spoon to paint the chocolate up the sides, You can also carefully and slowly rotate the cups to line the sides with the melted chocolate. - Once all of the mini muffin cups are filled and lined, place the tray into the fridge to let the chocolate set, about 5-10 minutes. - Roll the almond butter mixture into 12 equal sized balls. Place each into the center of the molds and press down slightly. - Drizzle the remaining melted dark chocolate over almond butter filled molds, with just enough chocolate to cover completely. - Place in the fridge until hard. (at least 20 minutes). Once set, sprinkle the flaked sea salt over each finished chocolate, if you'd like. Option to make your own chocolate: start with 1/2 cup coconut oil and melt over a medium-low heat, and whisk in 1/2 cup raw cacao or cocoa powder, 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup. Stir until well blended and use in place of the melted chocolate as above (not adding the additional coconut oil).
During a lengthy career as a newspaper journalist, Donald Knowler has escaped the “day job” by writing about wildlife. He pursues the genre of new nature writing, and his efforts to connect the human and natural worlds finds expression in the On the Wing column on bird-watching he writes for the Mercury each week. He is also the author of three books, and has contributed to three others. His first book, The Falconer of Central Park, was published by Bantam America; and a self-published collection of essays, Dancing on the Edge of the World, was nominated for the Tasmanian Premier’s Literary Prize in 2006. In 2015, Knowler self-published Riding the Devil’s Highway, a study of the roadkill issue in Tasmania. Knowler also contributed to Central Park: An anthology published by Bloomsbury America in 2014. Knowler’s Mercury column and his other writing can be found on his website at www.donaldknowler.com
What is it like to take the first step in couple and individual counselling training? Ali Ajam, student at on the Introductory course at Tavistock Relationships 2017 How did you come to consider Counselling training? When it came to counselling training, I was not entirely sure if I wanted to study couples or individuals. I did some research and I found the Tavistock Relationships Introduction to Couple Counselling & Psychotherapy course. I thought that this was a good study option for me on my way to becoming a counsellor, as it covered both couple and individual theory, allowing me to go on to train in either. Why did you choose Tavistock Relationships for the Introductory course? As well as the flexibility of therapy training, it was the reputation of Tavistock Relationships when it comes to couple therapy work and training that convinced me. Also, a key factor was that the course was in a convenient location in central London. Why the interest in the couple? I think relationships are the most important element of people’s lives. In particular when you look at the couple and all the dynamics going on between two people, that is really interesting. I was fascinated by how the course looks at the unconscious decisions made in the back of our minds and a really major one is why we choose the partners we do. Another element of the course is gaining a good deal more self-awareness. How would you briefly describe the training? The course helps you understand the psychodynamic theory and there are interesting reading assignments and practical activities like role plays. These are critical as they give you an understanding of what it is like to be a counsellor. The course also acts as the first step, a foundation, getting you ready for future study that leads to qualification as a counsellor or therapist. I find the couple work most interesting element, but your focus is flexible. Would you recommend the Introduction to Couple Counselling & Psychotherapy? I would fully recommend this course to anyone who is interested in self-awareness or a new career in counselling or psychotherapy. The quality of the materials and teaching is excellent, and the staff are friendly and supportive.
A person who is willing to getting married and is from a international nation is known as an foreign wife. This kind of woman typically seeks a lover and desires to have children. She does become easily matched with the right guy because she is frequently discovered on dating websites. Owing to this contemporary development, hundreds of people have found joyful relationships. In the past, a person had to traveling abroad to find his upcoming family. Now, he can use an online dating website https://mail-order-brides-guide.com/asian/ to do so from the convenience of his household. Many guys from all over the universe have been using dating websites to find foreign wives. They intjsecrets.com seek enjoy because they are aware that it is a fundamental human need. Enjoy is a sensation that brings contentment, tranquility, and emotions of security and confidence. Being loved and having someone by your side who will help you through tough times are crucial. Because their life in their own places are not as good, these girls are moreover seeking stableness. They want to relocate to a new country where they can lead better lives, leaving behind their home country. Because they have nothing else to desire for in their own state, some of them are perhaps prepared to become a mail-order wife. They have the ability to remain funny and laid-back. They can also be fervent and infuse your life with a lot of good feelings. Your Latina girlfriend will always be a sight for sore eyes, so you will always getting bored with her.
It’s still really dry out there so we thought we’d take advantage of that and head back up to 3 Stages. 1pm start, adventure ride, swim, patio! We are going to park somewhere a bit different, just down the road a bit and then drive back for a swim. This link should get you there: We are going to try and discover a new route up and down from the bottom.
Whārangi 1: Biography Bodkin, William Alexander Lawyer, local promoter, politician I tuhia tēnei haurongo e Tom Brooking, ā, i tāngia tuatahitia ki Ngā Tāngata Taumata Rau i te 2000. William Alexander Bodkin was born in Queenstown on 28 April 1883, the son of Irish immigrants James Bodkin, a watchmaker, and his wife, Eleanor (Ellen) Black. In 1889 his father purchased the Monte Christo farm near Clyde, where Frenchman Jean Desire Feraud had experimented with grape growing and irrigation. William spent most of his childhood here, where his father grew fruit, raised dairy cattle and continued Feraud’s experiments with irrigation. William left school at 12 or 13 to work on his father’s farm but earned enough money from rabbit shooting and investments in a local gold-dredging operation to fund his secondary education from the relatively advanced age of 18. He attended Wilson’s School in Christchurch and matriculated in 1904. He then proceeded to the University of Otago to study law and won admission to the Bar in 1909. He immediately purchased the practice of James Rankin Bartholomew in Alexandra; about 1930 it became Bodkin and Sunderland. Bodkin specialised in mining and irrigation law and in 1909 adopted the role of local booster by setting up a group to promote irrigation in Central Otago. He married Elizabeth Lillias McCorkindale, a schoolteacher, at Mānuka Creek, South Otago, on 1 September 1920; they were to have one daughter. Politically, Bodkin supported mainstream liberalism with its emphasis on development, self-help and closer land settlement. He first ran unsuccessfully for Parliament in 1914, standing as a Liberal against the Reform Party MP Robert Scott. Bodkin then turned his attention back to developing irrigation and revitalising mining. He acted as Alexandra’s borough solicitor and served one term on the borough council. In 1928 he won the Central Otago parliamentary seat for the United Party led by the ageing Sir Joseph Ward. He was a vigorous supporter of Ward’s unsuccessful attempt to revive John McKenzie’s closer settlement policies of the 1890s. Despite this disappointment he proved an able parliamentarian and a good speaker, and served as chairman of committees in 1930–31. Bodkin’s political influence diminished during the years of the coalition government (1931–35). His calls for greater help for farmers and the revitalisation of goldmining added to his local popularity, however, and he strengthened his hold on the seat by continuing to promote irrigation schemes and tourism. His attempts to revive gold dredging proved less successful. Despite his managing to secure the passage of a special bill in 1936 to shore up the Molyneux Gold Dredging Company, this ill-fated venture failed to pay a dividend. Other dredging efforts proved only slightly more successful and the long-promised boom never eventuated. Bodkin decided thereafter that the expansion of tourism and fruit growing based on adequate irrigation held the keys to a more certain economic future for the arid region of Central Otago. Following the coalition government’s defeat in 1935, he played a very active part in building the more broadly based conservative New Zealand National Party, which was established in 1936. Bodkin was rewarded for this and his effectiveness as an opposition speaker by being made minister of civil defence within the short-lived bi-partisan War Administration in 1942. When National won the treasury benches in 1949, he served as minister of internal affairs and minister of social security and, from 1951, minister in charge of tourist and health resorts. Bodkin proved an able administrator and earned a reputation as an expert in parliamentary procedure, but he failed to make any outstanding contributions to his portfolios. It seemed that his particular talents were best suited to the role of local advocate and opposition critic. Walter Nash hinted at this when, in 1954, he praised the retiring minister for his conscientious administration, generosity to his constituents and fine speeches made when in opposition. The other major reason for Bodkin’s enormous local popularity was the prominent role played by his wife in community affairs. Elizabeth Bodkin established the Central Otago branch of the Royal New Zealand Society for the Health of Women and Children in 1915. She served as president of the branch from 1933 to 1949, as a dominion councillor between 1932 and 1960 and as dominion president from 1950 to 1957. This involved much travel around New Zealand and earned her a reputation as an able advocate for the cause of improved child-rearing practices. She also found time to be a supportive wife to a busy local MP who had to travel widely among his scattered constituents. Bodkin was knighted in 1954. After his retirement he focused his energies on local history and founded the Alexandra District Historical Association and a local museum. He died at Alexandra on 15 June 1964, survived by his wife and daughter. The new museum built in Alexandra in 1967 was named the Sir William Bodkin Museum in his honour.
Furniture stores in Mumbai are retail establishments that sell a variety of furniture items such as tables, chairs, sofas, beds, and cabinets. Some popular furniture stores in Mumbai include Furniturewalla. These stores offer a wide range of furniture styles and designs, including both traditional and modern styles, and may also offer custom furniture design and manufacturing services. Additionally, many furniture shop in Mumbai also sell home decor and home accessories. Benefits of buy Furniture in Stores Furniture is an essential part of any home, office, or other living space. It not only serves a functional purpose but also adds to the overall aesthetic and ambiance of a room. With the rise of online shopping and e-commerce, many people are opting to purchase furniture online instead of from physical stores. However, there are many benefits to buy furniture online or in stores that are not available when shopping online. 1. Physical Inspection: When shopping for furniture in a store, you have the opportunity to physically inspect the piece before making a purchase. This allows you to see the quality and craftsmanship of the furniture, as well as any imperfections or defects. You can also check for comfort by sitting on a sofa or trying out a bed. Additionally, you can see how the furniture will look in the room and how it will coordinate with your existing decor. 2. Personalized Assistance: Furniture stores typically have knowledgeable, online lighting stores and experienced salespeople who can provide personalized assistance and answer any questions you may have. They can also offer design advice and help you find the perfect pieces to fit your style and budget. In contrast, when shopping online, you are left to your own devices to figure out what will fit in your space and what will coordinate with your existing decor. 3. Immediate Availability: When you purchase furniture from a store, it is usually available for immediate pick-up or delivery. This means that you can have your new furniture in your home and start using it right away. On the other hand, when you buy furniture online, you may have to wait for it to be shipped, which can take several days or even weeks. 4. Returns and Exchanges: If you purchase furniture from a store and discover that it is not what you wanted or is damaged, you can typically return it or exchange it for something else. This is not always the case when shopping online, as some retailers have strict return policies and may not accept returns or exchanges on furniture. 5. Supporting Local Businesses: Buying furniture from a local store supports the local economy and helps keep small businesses afloat. Local stores also provide jobs for people in the community and help to keep money circulating within the community. 6. Customization: Many furniture stores offer customization options for their products. This means you can choose the size, color, style, design or console tables online of your furniture. This is not always possible when shopping online, as the selection is usually limited to what is available on the website. 7. Better Quality: Furniture sold in stores is usually of a higher quality than that sold online. The reason for this is that stores have to meet certain quality standards to maintain their reputation, whereas online retailers do not have the same level of accountability. Additionally, many furniture stores offer warranties or guarantees on their products, giving you peace of mind in case something goes wrong. 8. Experience the ambiance: Furniture stores are designed to showcase their products in the best possible light. This means that the lighting, layout, and display of the furniture are all carefully considered to create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. This can help you to make a more informed decision about what you want to buy and give you an idea of how the furniture will look in your home. 9. Touch and feel: Buying luxury furniture in India gives you the opportunity to touch and feel the furniture. This is important because it gives you a sense of the quality and durability of the furniture. You can also check for smoothness in the finish, the tightness of joints, and the sturdiness of the frame. 10. Support local jobs: By buying furniture from a store, you are supporting local jobs and helping to keep local businesses afloat. Local stores provide jobs
Hundreds of people had been uncovered to harmful substances from 1953 to 1987 because of the dangerously polluted water on the Navy Station, Camp Lejeune. Because of their publicity, numerous Servicemen and their household who labored and lived within the camp at the moment suffered most cancers and numerous different illnesses. Regrettably, the statute of limitations prevented victims from acquiring damages reimbursement for his or her losses. A brand new federal legislation, although, is nearing completion. Congress is anticipated to move this measure quickly, and the president will signal it. The victims of this contaminated water will be capable to convey lawsuits beneath the Camp Lejeune Justice Act (CLJA) of 2022 to recoup the required damages. The Camp Lejeune Contamination A Marine Corps base known as Camp Lejeune has been in use since 1942. North Carolina is residence to Camp Lejeune, which spans a complete space of 250 sq. miles. A number of different army departments have utilized this station for coaching workouts along with housing marines. Since Camp Lejeune opened, hundreds of people have resided or labored there. The Camp Lejeune water system was subjected to checks by the Marines within the Nineteen Eighties. These research revealed that the station’s two most important water therapy crops had been extraordinarily extremely polluted with harmful substances. They established by this testing that the poisoning of the water began from 1953 to 1987. Throughout this time, practically 1,000,000 people had been susceptible to the contaminated water provide on the Armed Providers base. Quite a few well being points have been related to the toxins in Camp Lejeune’s groundwater. Folks uncovered have had a variety of illnesses, similar to completely different cancers, neurological circumstances, and beginning deformities. Upcoming Lawsuits Relating to Camp Lejeune Contamination Anybody who contracted a situation linked to water toxicity from publicity on the army base, Camp Lejeune, will qualify to launch a lawsuit and search remuneration from the federal government if the brand new laws is handed. The worst breakdown of a public water provide in America occurred at Camp Lejeune. Many of the substances on this groundwater had toxicity ranges that had been hundreds to tens of hundreds larger than these permitted by federal legislation security rules. A number of toxic chemical substances had been found in Camp Lejeune water, and many individuals nonetheless endure the implications of this contamination. A few of the well being penalties folks have suffered from the contamination embrace bladder most cancers, kidney illnesses, liver most cancers, Parkinson’s illness, and myelodysplastic illnesses like leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Up till this level, victims of Camp Lejeune have been unable to sue the federal government for this publicity as a result of North Carolina legislation. After a a lot too lengthy wait, these harmed will finally have a path to remuneration and justice as soon as this legislation clears the final procedural boundaries it presently faces. What Will a Settlement at Camp Lejeune Value? Claimants will likely be certified for all compensatory damages, together with non-economic and financial damages, ceaselessly supplied in tort proceedings. Any financial award will likely be deducted from any VA compensation already obtained for these damages. It’s unimaginable to estimate the quantity you need to anticipate receiving at the moment. Too many variables nonetheless have to be thought-about, and these circumstances nonetheless have many unanswered questions. Payouts in comparable harm conditions previously ceaselessly vary from $150,000 to $400,000. Discover out extra about Camp Lejeune compensation quantities right here. It’s not but too early to start working in your case, though the CLJA is but to be handed. Contact a lawyer instantly in the event you or a liked one contracted a illness after publicity to tainted water at Camp Lejeune from 1953 to 1987.
Driverless automobiles are right here – in case you occur to stay in San Francisco, not less than. Regulators voted final week to permit two firms to run driverless taxi providers within the metropolis. So it’s shocking to listen to from the British boss of an autonomous-car firm that the following step – the dream of a automotive that may drive you wherever – should be a decade or extra away. Gavin Jackson, of British startup Oxa, says it could possibly be 10 and even 20 years earlier than an “Uber impact” takes over and robo-taxis are able to going wherever with out human intervention. “It’s simply the toughest drawback you possibly can probably wish to remedy, as a result of the variables are infinite,” he tells the Observer over lunch in London. Loads of cash is being expended to resolve it. Enterprise capitalists poured $3.2bn (£2.5bn) into the autonomous automotive sector within the 12 months to April, in accordance with information firm PitchBook (though that was lower than the $15bn spent in 2021 in the course of the pandemic “every thing bubble”). The UK authorities, which has given grants to Oxa, has mentioned it’s hoping for 38,000 jobs and a £42bn business by 2035. A number of analysts, administration consultants and tech bros – led by Tesla’s boss, Elon Musk – insist that full autonomy is simply across the nook. In distinction, Oxa’s method veers in direction of realism (or pessimism, relying in your style). The corporate, beforehand referred to as Oxbotica, was co-founded in 2014 by Paul Newman, a robotics professor on the College of Oxford who nonetheless serves as chief know-how officer. Jackson was employed in December 2021 to supervise its shift from promising startup to profit-making enterprise promoting autonomous driving software program. That has meant specializing in autonomy in additional managed conditions, reminiscent of petrochemical refineries, mines and factories. Oxa is trialling tech with traders together with BP, Ocado and the German automotive provider ZF – though a pilot with the London taxi agency Addison Lee has fizzled out. However Oxa is on the point of rolling out its know-how with paying clients. It should announce a US deal for driverless shuttle buses carrying 10 to fifteen passengers in September, and work for a “logistics big” in airports and depots early subsequent 12 months, Jackson says. Oxa can also be working with an unnamed main producer on “a turnkey autonomous car product for mass transit”. So, a bus? It’s “a bus of types,” Jackson acknowledges, however he insists it is going to be the “first of its variety on the earth”. “It’s a through-the-looking-glass second,” he provides. An unlikely path Oxa employs 310 individuals, and is trying so as to add one other 100 within the subsequent 12 months. They’re “virtually wall-to-wall PhDs”, says Jackson. Provided that truth, and the intensive work the corporate does on possibilities and programming on the limits of know-how, his path to the highest job is a shock. Jackson was born in Northampton, and spent his early years dwelling in a Hertfordshire pub. Up thus far, he has been talking animatedly over a burrata salad in regards to the challenges of autonomous driving and of rising a enterprise, however, speaking about his personal path, he begins to pause. “As occurs quite a bit, the household scenario modified considerably and my household, me and my siblings, ended up in hostels, and we had been type of formally homeless,” he says, fastidiously. “After which we went via the entire welfare system for ceaselessly, till ultimately I, you recognize, I used to be capable of land alone two ft.” These two sentences clearly include quite a bit. Jackson doesn’t wish to deal with what he half-jokingly describes because the “sob story”, though he does say he and his father have reconnected: they watch soccer at Watford, the place Jackson is a season ticket holder. It’s a good distance from being a college leaver with no diploma to holding senior positions at a few of the world’s greatest know-how firms. After working at a warehouse and in an insurance coverage enterprise, his first tech job was promoting point-of-sale card machines. He then began an increase up the company ladder, beginning on the cloud computing firms Dell EMC and VMware. He joined Amazon in 2015, the place he co-managed its large cloud arm, Amazon Internet Providers (AWS), in Europe, the Center East and Africa, earlier than a stint main a robotics software program firm, after which Microsoft UK’s Enterprise Industrial enterprise till December 2021. These jobs created some critical name-dropping potential. At AWS, Jackson labored underneath Andy Jassy – a “mentor” – who took over the chief government job at Amazon from founder Jeff Bezos. (Jassy is now the proprietor of a Watford shirt.) Jackson additionally says he labored in “shut proximity” with Satya Nadella, now Microsoft’s boss, and former VMware boss Pat Gelsinger, who now leads the chip big Intel. His disrupted childhood motivated him to “get away of that cycle” in work, and gave him a piece ethic that’s “simply totally different to some individuals”, he says. ‘They wish to construct Rome’ Different self-driving automotive firms are nonetheless taking pictures for full autonomy (referred to as “degree 5” in business jargon). They embody the 2 firms that will probably be allowed to function in San Francisco: Cruise, which is owned by Normal Motors, and Waymo, a part of Google proprietor Alphabet. Google-provided generative AI could assist practice Oxa’s algorithms, however Jackson says there is no such thing as a rivalry as a result of the 2 firms are aiming for very various things. “They know Rome wasn’t in-built a day, however they wish to construct Rome,” he says. “It’s not the place the worth is at this time. Alphabet has the endurance and the capital to attend. Not everyone does. We will’t wait.” Oxa has raised £250m to date, together with £140m in its final fundraising spherical. Jackson is coy in regards to the firm’s valuation, however concedes it’s “within the ballpark” of “unicorn” standing – that means a non-public startup price greater than $1bn. Whether or not Oxa can cement its place as a British driverless know-how champion will probably be examined within the coming months, however Jackson readily slips into tech-boss imaginative and prescient making with ease. “It’s not a science challenge,” he says. “This must dramatically change the panorama, dramatically change how the Earth strikes.” Household Married to Susie, with two sons aged 16 and 14, a daughter aged 10, and shortly – from the top of August – a canine. Training Major faculty in Hertfordshire, Bushey Meads secondary – “the identical faculty as George Michael” – adopted by a BTec in land administration, planning and surveying at Oaklands Faculty. Later accomplished administration programs at Cranfield College, the Worldwide Institute for Administration Improvement in Switzerland, and Harvard Enterprise College within the US. Pay “Cash, and inventory … and pleasure.” Final vacation Corfu with household. Greatest recommendation he’s been given “[Microsoft boss] Satya [Nadella] saying that in the end you may have all of the information on the earth, however information is fleeting. That’s why having a development mindset is so very essential, as a result of change is so quick. There’s a graveyard of firms that didn’t do this.” Phrase he overuses Industrialise. “My staff are sick of me saying it. What we have to do is develop the dimensions.” How he relaxes “One of many issues I love to do with the household is construct Lego – complicated Lego” (together with a grand piano that performs). Additionally managing his son’s soccer staff – “my second job”.
You’ve just concocted a groundbreaking idea that has the potential to revolutionize the way we toast bread. You’re bubbling with excitement and ideas, but there’s a shadow of doubt lurking. What if someone else snags your concept and runs with it? This is where intellectual property lawyers swoop in like a guardian angel for creatives. In the following article, we’ll dive into the depths of how intellectual property law acts as a catalyst for innovation, giving birth to new concepts while ensuring their parental rights remain intact. So, buckle up, folks! We’re about to embark on a ride through the wild world of creativity protection. Now, let’s get down to brass tacks – how does this whole intellectual property thing work? Think of it as a fortress that shields your ingenious ideas from marauders. Whether it’s a mind-boggling algorithm, an enchanting melody, or a literary masterpiece, intellectual property law is your knight in shining armor. Ah, patents – the golden tickets to innovation wonderlands. These aren’t just for eccentric inventors holed up in their garages; they’re for anyone with an idea that’s got a ‘Eureka!’ moment to it. Patents say, “Hey, I’ve got something so unique even the Sphinx would raise an eyebrow.” They give inventors exclusive rights to their creations, allowing them to bask in the glory of their brainchild without fearing copycats. Ever had a song, painting, or story worm its way into your soul and take residence? That’s the magic of copyrights at play. They’re like force fields protecting your creative offsprings from being kidnapped and paraded around by others. From Shakespeare’s sonnets to Taylor Swift‘s chart-toppers, copyrights preserve the essence of creativity, ensuring that credit and rewards flow to the rightful creators. Now, let’s chat about trademarks, shall we? These little badges of honor ensure your branding efforts aren’t swiped by tricksters trying to ride on your coattails. Your logo, your catchphrase, your secret sauce – trademarks keep ’em safe and sound. Just think of the iconic Apple logo; it’s not just a half-bitten fruit – it’s a legally fortified symbol of innovation. Alright, it’s time to delve deeper into the labyrinthine corridors of intellectual property law. Buckle up, because things might get a tad convoluted – but fear not, we’ve got a map! “But wait,” you interject, “what about using snippets of copyrighted material in my YouTube video?” Ah, my friend, you’re tiptoeing on the tightrope of fair use. This doctrine allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission for purposes like criticism, commentary, or education. It’s like borrowing your neighbor’s lawn mower to mow your own lawn – as long as you give it back in one piece, you’re in the clear. Imagine a vast meadow where ideas frolic freely without any ownership shackles. That’s the public domain for you. Once a work’s copyright expires, it prances into this open field for anyone to use, remix, or build upon. Think of Shakespeare – his works are like open-source codes for playwrights across centuries. Hold on to your hats, because we’re tackling some burning questions about intellectual property that have been brewing in your mind like a strong cup of joe. You’ve got the moves like Jagger, and you’re wondering if those moonwalks can be copyrighted? Well, here’s the deal: while choreographic works can be protected, individual dance moves – not so much. It’s like trying to copyright the high-five; it’s more about the whole routine than a single move. Ah, the enigmatic world of trade secrets – the Coca-Cola formula, the Colonel’s secret blend of herbs and spices – these are like the Arcane Scrolls of the business realm. To safeguard them, you’ve gotta keep ’em under lock and key, and only entrust them to the chosen few. It’s like guarding grandma’s secret cookie recipe, only the chosen one gets to don the apron. In a world where ideas are the currency of progress, intellectual property law emerges as the unsung hero. It’s the quiet guardian that ensures innovation isn’t trampled by the stampede of copycats. So, the next time you whip up a masterpiece in your laboratory of creativity, remember that intellectual property law stands by your side, ready to raise its shield and defend your right to innovation. Preserving creativity through IP law isn’t just a mouthful – it’s a concept that keeps the gears of creativity turning, one patent, copyright, and trademark at a time.
Lodha Manyata Tech Park Project is among the most anticipated prelaunch residential projects in Thanisandra Main Road, Bangalore. The beautiful homes will be equipped with all contemporary amenities and facilities within the area around the apartment constructions. The new upcoming projects will offer beautiful houses located in Nagavara with 2 BHK, 3 BHK, and 4 BHK flats for sale in Bengaluru. The price of these new launch projects by Lodha Group in Bangalore is yet to be finalized. Lodha Manyata Tech Park Apartments is a neighborhood located in the heart of Bangalore and is known for its diverse nation and a strong sense of community. It is a popular choice among families and students due to its close proximity to educational organizations and convenient access to public transportation. The Lodha project in Bangalore also offers a wide range of conveniences such as shopping centers, cafeterias, and entertainment choices. However, the real estate prices in Thanisandra Main Road can be on the higher side due to its central position and demand. Overall, Nagavara is a well-rounded and desirable location to live in Bangalore. About Location - Bangalore Real Estate Market is seeing massive prelaunch developments launched throughout the year. In the next few years, there will be a lot of Lodha Group projects in Bengaluru. Home buyers and investors looking for real estate investment in Bangalore can book pre-launch projects in Nagavara. About Builder - The Lodha Group in Bangalore is a leading real estate builder, known for its high-quality luxury residential and commercial projects across Bangalore. The company was founded in 1980 and has since grown to become one of the largest real estate builders in India. The Lodha Group has a diverse range of properties, including residential flats, commercial buildings, office spaces, and retail places. The company has a strong focus on sustainability and innovation and has received several awards and recognition for its developments.
Welding hoses are often color-coded to differentiate between different gases and their specific use. For example, oxygen hoses might be green or black, while acetylene hoses might be red. This color coding helps prevent mix-ups and ensures safe usage of gases. Reinforced Cord: Some welding hoses may include an additional layer of reinforced cord in between the inner tube and outer cover. This cord provides extra strength and stability to the hose. Couplings and Fittings: The ends of welding hoses are usually fitted with specific couplings or fittings that connect to welding equipment, welding hose manufacturers regulators, torches, and other components. These fittings are often made of metals like brass for durability and compatibility with the welding environment. When selecting a welding hose, it's important to choose one that is designed for the specific type of welding process you will be undertaking and the gases you will be using. Additionally, hoses should be regularly inspected for signs of wear, cracking, or damage to ensure they remain safe and effective for use in welding operations.
Interactive training that is specific to your company’s process is always preferred but interrupting production to test your new knowledge is probably not an option. This is where the newest addition to our Training & Development Solutions, The Functional Verification Unit – THE UNIT, comes into play. Join us for a technical training course at our Houston Training Center and test your knowledge in THE UNIT by completing lab scenarios. Having issues in production that you need to work through? Schedule some time in THE UNIT with one of our technical resources to mimic your specific process conditions, test, and troubleshoot. - Fully Functional Live Unit - Duplicate Process Conditions - Solve Issues - Process Specific Training in A Controlled Environment Take a Virtual Tour of The UNIT Whatever your needs, our technical resources create hands-on training tailored specifically towards your process. Sessions are delivered in small groups for optimal outcomes. We partner with you every step of the way to ensure your goals are met. - Onboarding New Personnel - Training For Specific Products - Mandatory Recertification to Maintain Compliance Meet Joey Blair, Lead Unit Technician Joey Blair has 22 years of experience with instrumentation and control systems and has been with TechStar for 6 years. He has extensive experience with liquid, bulk solid and flow measurements working in all sectors of the process industry, including upstream and downstream oil and gas. Joey has spent the past 6 years honing his skills by supporting customer applications as a TechStar Field Service Technician. He brings this experience along with a prior technical teaching career at San Jacinto College to his role of Lead Unit Technician. Joey serves as the primary contact and instructor for all customer sessions in THE UNIT. For more information about our training programs, schedule time to meet with Emily Jones, TechStar’s Customer Experience Coordinator, in this calendar. Emily Jones – TechStar Customer Experience Coordinator Emily has a strong background in customer service. She works closely with our customer base, corporate trainers and manufacturers in continuing to develop and expand our technical training offering. Contact Emily at any time to discuss: – Specific training and development needs/objectives for personnel – Custom training courses tailored to your company’s specific equipment needs – Training options onsite at your location or TechStar Training Center Locations
Hey Megan, Can you tell us about your new single “Moonlight”? Moonlight is a song about my senior prom night – I ended up leaving the prom early with my date and some of our friends. We drove to Baltimore (a city about 90 min away) and spent the night exploring. Looking back, we didn’t make the safest decisions, but to this day, it’s the most free I’ve ever felt. What’s the process of writing one of your songs? For me it always starts with the music – maybe a short guitar part or melody. Then it’s just about feeling out what the tone is and what I’m trying to say. You made a name for yourself in the music industry by posting cover videos on YouTube. What’s the process of choosing a cover song for you to sing? When I first started doing covers, I leaned toward choosing popular songs that were newly released. It was a great way to get my name out there since so many people were searching for those songs. Nowadays, it’s just about creating the best music I can – so I try to find songs I vibe with or know I can put my own spin on. Why did you decide to start posting on YouTube? & What’s the benefits of having a following on such a huge platform like YouTube? My younger sister talked me into posting my first cover video on YouTube. I was reluctant at first because I’m a perfectionist and didn’t think it was good enough – like “what do I know about making videos?” But she pushed me to get out of my comfort zone, and it ended up being life changing. There’s a lot of benefits to having a YouTube following, most importantly being able to make a living as a creator. But just having a community and audience that’s supportive of your work is incredibly motivating. You have also created a huge social media presence for yourself. Why do you think social media is so important for singers today? Today, musicians have to put themselves out there more than ever. Everything is so much more visual and people want to get to know the person who sings their favorite songs. There’s definitely pros and cons– but I’m happy to have people engaged and following my story. With a massive following already your supporters must have a name for themselves. Does your fan base have a name? Haha I don’t know that there’s been anything official declared. But I recently started a section of my website called the MADlove Fam Community. MADlove Music is the name of the record label I started, and it comes from my initials – Megan Ashley Davies. It’s been a really great way to communicate and reward all the people supporting me over the internet. How do you want your relationship to be with your fans? I hope they can listen to my music and have it connect with their own lives. Growing up, I had songs I would cry to, songs I would dance to in my bedroom, and songs I would blast during a long road trip. Hopefully in the same way, I can be a soundtrack for someone else’s life. What was the craziest fan encounter you have had? Most of my in-person fan encounters have been really nice so far – but I’ve received my fair share of crazy poetry haha. What social media platform do you use most to stay connected to your fans? My favorite right now outside of YouTube is Instagram. You recently performed for Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, Zendaya & the creators of The Greatest Showman and attended the films premiere in New York City, can you tell us a little bit about what that experience was like? The whole thing was surreal – it still feels like it was a dream. When I was performing, I tried my hardest to pretend like they were just normal people…but you can only trick your brain for so long haha! But it was an unforgettable experience and they were all super kind and supportive. What’s an average day for “Megan Davies” look like? Depending on what project I’m working on, it’s busy mix of rehearsals and studio time. I’ve started building my own home studio over the past few years and it’s been really nice to wake up, make some tea, and get to work. I also like to squeeze in a workout and if I have the time, sit outside and read. What goals have you set out for yourself in your career and in your personal life? I’ve always had a goal of being able to fill a theater in any city around the world. That’s a big one for me. How has this whole music career experience been? It’s a bit of a marathon at times, but also incredibly rewarding. I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else. Do you have any last things you want to tell your supporters? Thank you for listening! It’s because of you I get to do what I do. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to do this interview with me.
Life sciences sector in Telangana attracted investments to the tune of about Rs 3,700 crores in last one year with an employment potential for around 14,000 people Hyderabad: Hyderabad’s scientists and entrepreneurs have given the life sciences sector its moment in the spotlight amidst the pandemic, with accelerated development of vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics. The city rose to the occasion and made an impact for the world to witness. Its position as the “vaccine capital of the world” was further bolstered and it is a matter of pride that the world is looking to India and Hyderabad, said Telangana Industries Minister KT Rama Rao while inaugurating the 18th edition of BioAsia. “Visit of foreign envoys from over 60 countries and that of the Prime Minister to Genome Valley is a testimony to the cluster’s significance in the global context,” added KTR. He lauded Bharat Biotech’s contribution and commitment to develop India’s first indigenous vaccine for Covid-19, and the efforts of Biological E, Indian Immunologicals and others in vaccine development. He added, Hetero Pharma and Dr Reddy’s are also augmenting the global supply by manufacturing and distributing Russian vaccine Sputnik. Further, Aurobindo Pharma is building a world-class vaccine manufacturing facility with a capacity of about 450 million doses. All these highlight the position of Hyderabad as the vaccine capital of the world and significant global population will be immunised with vaccines produced in Hyderabad. Speaking about the potential of Telangana, KTR added, “Our dream and vision of growing the life sciences industry to over $100 billion looks plausible and we remain committed to it. I would like to highlight that even after the widespread health and economic distress caused by Covid-19 pandemic, the life sciences sector in Telangana has responded with resilience and witnessed tremendous growth during the year. Life sciences sector in the State has attracted investments to the tune of about Rs 3,700 crores in last one year with an employment potential for around 14,000 people.” Highlighting other accomplishments made by the State, he said, the approval of Umbralisib for cancer treatment is historic as it is the first drug ever discovered in India and approved by the US FDA. “I am extremely proud that the discovery of Umbralisib is led from Incozen’s facility in Genome Valley.” Genome Valley also witnessed large pharmaceutical companies announcing expansion plans. Sai Life Sciences, a contract research organisation, inaugurated its new Research & Development centre at Genome Valley with an investment of about Rs 400 crores. The sprawling campus will play a pivotal role in accelerating the discovery and development of new drugs. Syngene’s campus in Genome Valley which was inaugurated during the last edition of BioAsia, saw the number of scientists doubling in a year from 100 to over 225 now. The company, which had leased a building last February, is rapidly growing to occupy their third building in the middle of this year. GVK Bio, another Hyderabad-based company focused on supporting global innovators, is also expanding rapidly and will be adding 600 new jobs this year in Hyderabad, which highlights Hyderabad’s unmatched scientific prowess. Further, Granules India will invest about Rs 400 crores to set up a facility with capacity to manufacture 10 billion units of finished dosages that will generate employment for about 1,600 persons. And Laurus Labs is investing Rs 300 crores to set up a formulation facility in Genome Valley with a capacity of five billion units. Switzerland-based Ferring Pharmaceuticals, which announced its entry into Genome Valley previously, started operations last year. Further, a Canadian company called Jamp Pharmaceutical had announced investment in Genome Valley in 2018 and their state-of-the-art facility in Genome Valley is nearing completion. They have aggressive growth plans in Hyderabad, and the minister said he is looking forward to inaugurating this facility next month. “We also have Indian Council for Medical Research establishing the country’s largest National Animal Resource facility for biomedical research in Genome Valley, which is also expected to be inaugurated soon,” he informed. The Government of Telangana is partnering with Cytiva to set up a biopharma scale up facility- B-Hub in Genome valley. “As you know, eight out of 10 top selling drugs globally today are biopharmaceuticals. While there exist formidable capabilities in chemical drugs in the country, B-Hub will help Telangana and India in accelerating the growth of the biopharmaceutical sector. I am confident that Telangana will emerge the biopharmaceutical capital of India,” said the minister. KTR said the medical devices sector is another area, which promises extraordinary growth opportunities for the State. The Medical Devices Park continues to be the destination-of-choice and around 40 companies are establishing their manufacturing and R&D facilities. Some of these companies have already started commercial production and many of them are lined up for commencement by end of this year. “With operationalisation of these units, I am confident that the landscape of the park will transform, and the park will become the hotbed for Medtech activities in the country,” he added. Global medical devices major Medtronic had announced one of their biggest investments – $170 million- globally last year to establish its largest innovation and engineering centre in Hyderabad. The centre is ready and the facility is geared up for inauguration next month. KTR emphasised, “On the pharma front, we remain committed to grounding the Hyderabad Pharma City project soon to support India’s pharma industry regain its leadership position in APIs (active pharmaceutical ingredients) and KSMs (key starting materials) offering significant cost and value benefits. I am confident of creating a new global benchmark for sustainable industrial cities with this initiative.” In addition, the Telangana government is also working on several other initiatives such as Digital Medicine Hub, Institute for Cell and Gene Therapy, Flow Chemistry Hub, a world-class life sciences university, and many more to build strong foundations for the next generation opportunities. The State will continue to support the rapid growth of the startup ecosystem by facilitating plug and play infrastructure, access to capital, access to medical information and validation support among others, assured KTR. Telangana Industries and Commerce principal secretary Jayesh Ranjan, Telangana Life Sciences director Shakti Nagappan, Telangana State Life Sciences Advisory Committee Satish Reddy, Dr Krishna Ella and Suchitra Ella of Bharat Biotech and other industry leaders were also present at the BioAsia inaugural programme. KTR presented the Genome Valley Excellence Award to Bharat Biotech for its breakthrough, pioneering research, development and commercialisation of vaccines.
Forest Bathing essential oil blend has the aroma of a green forest after the rain. Imagine sitting on a big stone, the aromas of Cypress, Cedar wood, and Fir Needle all around. A fresh, sun kissed evergreen blend is the aroma we are presenting to you. 10 ml bottle How to Use Telvada Aromatherapy Roller Ball • Massage the pulse points • Inhalation by smelling from the bottle and closing your eyes to meditate. • Apply behind the ear or at the tip of the nose to enjoy the aroma.
Bomb threat at Indian Museum in Kolkata, cops cordon off premises Kolkata, Jan 5 (IANS) Kolkata Police and personnel from the bomb-squad took possession of the premises of the iconic Indian Museum in central Kolkata following a bomb threat message received by the museum authorities on Friday. The bomb threat was sent through an email to the museum authorities where it was said that “any possibility might lead to casualties of several innocent people”. The museum authorities immediately informed the city police headquarters. As per the latest information available, a police contingent has cordoned off the entire museum premises and the sleuths of the bomb-squad were searching each and every room within the premises to detect the existence of any explosive item. The employees of the museum and the visitors were brought out of the premises before the bomb-squad sleuths went in. A notice has been issued by the museum authorities announcing a ban on the entry of the visitors for a reasonable amount of time. Investigation has also started regarding the sources of the email through which the bomb alert was sent, a city police official said. In August 2022 a Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) jawan posted in the security duty for the museum fired indiscriminately from his service AK-47 rifle killing one of his colleagues in the force and leaving another injured. He was later neutralized following an hour of an operation by a joint team of Kolkata Police’s combat force and CISF.
Jamie Foxx pictured back at work for first time since worrying health battle Los Angeles, Jan 22 (IANS) The ‘Django Unchained’ star Jamie Foxx has returned to work for the first time since his health emergency back in April 2023. The Hollywood icon was spotted alongside his co-star Cameron Diaz back on the set of their upcoming movie ‘Back In Action’, reports Mirror.co.uk. Pictures of the pair filming showed them strolling along outside together dressed in casual clothes with Cameron, 51, wearing a cream cardigan layered over a white top and teamed with dark grey cargo trousers and white sneakers. Jamie meanwhile also wore white sneakers as well as a dark grey sweater with navy trousers as he walked beside his fellow Hollywood star. As per Mirror.co.uk, the ‘Django Unchained’ star was recently seen choking back tears as he spoke publicly about his traumatic illness for the first time. Giving a 12 minute speech as he took to the stage at the Critics Choice Association Awards, Jamie admitted that he was left unable to walk after falling ill as he battled the tears. He said, “You know, it’s crazy, I couldn’t do that six months ago – I couldn’t actually walk. I’m not a clone, I’m not a clone. I know a lot of people who were saying I was cloned out there. I want to thank everybody. I’ve been through something, I’ve been through some things”.
In a previous blog I shared about the importance of reading and understanding what you are signing; because a person is usually bound by their signature to a document (save and except in certain circumstances). The essence of the principle of non est factum (it is not my deed) is that the person signing believed that the document that they signed had one character or effect where in fact its character or effect was quite different. This principle (or plea) is not available to anyone who was content to sign without taking the trouble to try to find out the general effect of the document that they are signing (at the very least). A document or Deed may be null, void and of no effect by reason of the party not knowing what they were signing. However, the elements of non est factum have to be proved. For non est factum to succeed, the party must show that: (a) he was under a disability (b) the document which he had signed was fundamentally different from the document he thought he was signing; and (c) he was not careless in that he had not failed to take proper precautions to ascertain the significance of the document he was signing – Lloyd’s Bank PLC v Waterhouse 2FLR 97 “Whenever a man of full age and understanding, who can read and write, signs a legal document which is put before him for signature–by which I mean a document which, it is apparent on the face of it, is intended to have legal consequences–then, if he does not take the trouble to read it but signs it as it is, relying on the word of another as to its character or contents or effect, he cannot be heard to say that it is not his document. By his conduct in signing it he has represented, to all those into whose hands it may come, that it is his document…” – Gallie v Lee and Another 1 All ER 1062 per Lord Denning at p.1072 “The plea (non est factum) cannot be available to anyone who was content to sign without taking the trouble to try to find out at least the general effect of the document… But the essence of the plea non est factum is that the person signing believed that the document he signed had one character or one effect whereas in fact its character or effect was quite different. He could not have such belief unless he had taken steps or been given information which gave him some grounds for his belief…” – Saunders v Anglia Building Society Limited 3 All ER 961, p. 961. If the deed was not your deed at all: - You are not bound by the signature. - The document is a nullity. - No one can claim title under it, not even an innocent purchaser who bought on the faith of it, nor an innocent lender who lent their money on the faith of it. No matter that this innocent person acted in the utmost good faith, without notice of anything wrong, they take nothing by the document. Gallie v Lee and Another 1 All ER 1062 per Lord Denning at pp. 1066 – 1067 For part one of this topic: https://tenorequelegalandconsulting.com/when-can-we-sign/
You will feel at home in this well dressed, impeccably maintained charmer nestled in the desirable Education Hill neighborhood. Sitting on one of the most favored lots, adjacent to a park, this home offers a flowing, open-concept floor plan with expansive hardwoods, a functional den, spacious bonus loft, fresh interior paint, new carpets and AC. You’ll fall in love with the wall-to-wall windows in the living room, which connects to the gorgeous chef’s kitchen with new, stainless-steel appliances and granite countertops. Enjoy the low maintenance, private, fully fenced yard with a large patio made for entertaining. Coveted location in the excellent Lake Washington School District, close to freeways, parks, shops and major employment hubs. With over 30 years in real estate, Terry Allen is equipped with the expertise to provide you with strategic counsel and insightful analysis, generating successful outcomes for both buyers and sellers.Let's Connect
The Test Valley Borough of Culture Festival aims to: - Celebrate the rich cultural scene that exists in Test Valley - Help artists and organisations to reach new audiences. - Create new opportunities for people to engage with the Arts. - Encourage collaborationand innovation - Inspire creativity, innovation, joy, emotion and expression everywhere! WE WILL TELL PEOPLE ABOUT YOUR EVENT? Add your event to our website to benefit from our widespread publicity for free. We’ll be promoting the festival in the press and media as well as running digital and printed advertising campaigns. You can also use our logo on your own marketing material. Don’t miss this opportunity to tell people about your event and grow your audience. I NEED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Test Valley Arts Foundation is offering a limited number of small grants to support the creation of new projects and events that offer community engagement opportunities, or may be able to point you in the direction of other grants.
For the past several years, Dan and Debbie Leimbach, Linton and Jan Savage, and others have volunteered both their time and budget to treat the kids of the Sanderson schools with a special "Pizza Lunch" and when possible a little gift bag. Contributions were generally from the small group of TCA members that participated in the race. But this year was different. Debbie shared with the TCA club her passion of this small rural community that opens their arms and hearts to the racers once a year during the Big Bend Road Race. Upon hearing the story of these underserved schools, the TCA members did what they do best -- they step up to the plate to help fill the need. This year, Debbie collected a whomping $5,050 towards her school effort for the kids. Focused on enriching the schools's math and science departments, the teachers Ms. Hershberger and Ms. Johnson intend to use the donation to purchase a 3D color printer available for the entire school. In addition to the $5050 , TCA racers purchased snacks, drinks, treat bags (which Debbie was told was a HUGE hit) and 66 pizzas. The amount of food was enough to feed the students for 2 days. (Thursday and Friday) plus the administrators pulled out pizzas to send home with students for the weekend. Otherwise some of these students would not have any food. Debbie said, "The administrators wanted me to tell you what incredible role models you (TCA) are for the students. We do this because we care not for the publicity or because we have to. They also wanted me to relay to you what a huge impact the food has had for the kids. The kids are so surprised that people in San Antonio know about them and really care." FROM DEBBIE: And on a personal note, your generosity and support was overwhelming and left me speechless. THANK YOU!!!
Eclectic interior design is a captivating and unique style that celebrates the art of blending different design elements from various styles, eras, and cultures. It's an approach that allows homeowners to express their creativity and showcase their personality through their living spaces. Embracing a mix-and-match and maximalist philosophy, eclectic design has gained popularity for its flexibility and its ability to break away from traditional design rules. In this article, we will explore the top 10 eclectic interior design trends that have captivated homeowners and designers alike. 1. Mixing Patterns and Textures One of the key characteristics of eclectic design is the artful blending of patterns and textures. The beauty of this trend lies in the seamless hodgepodge of materials and fabrics in a rainbow of colours. Layering different patterns, such as geometric, floral, striped, and abstract designs, adds depth and visual interest to a room. Furthermore, combining various textures like velvet, fur, and woven fabrics enhances the tactile experience and creates a rich, inviting ambience that is a treat for the senses. 2. Bold Colour Choices Eclectic interiors are often characterised by their bold and vibrant colour schemes. You can embrace the freedom to mix and match contrasting hues, creating a vibrant and visually stimulating environment. Jewel tones, neon accents, and pops of unexpected colours can be integrated into the design to make a strong statement and infuse the space with your unique personality. 3. Vintage and Antique Elements A defining feature of eclectic interior design is the addition of vintage and antique pieces. These elements add character, history, and a sense of nostalgia to the space. Whether it's an intricately carved antique chest of drawers, a retro lamp with a colourful shade, or a vintage Persian rug, these elements bring a unique charm that cannot be replicated by modern items. Embracing antiques and vintage finds adds a layer of authenticity and timelessness to the overall design of your home. 4. Inspiration From Global Cultures The eclectic design draws inspiration from various cultures and regions around the world. Homeowners leverage eclectic interior design to infuse their living space with global influences. Moroccan lanterns, Middle Eastern textiles, African masks, and Asian ceramics are just a few examples of the diverse elements that can be incorporated. Blending these cultural influences results in an aesthetically appealing and worldly atmosphere that transports you to far-off places. 5. Diverse Artwork Art plays a significant role in eclectic interior design. Homeowners have the opportunity to curate a diverse art collection that resonates with their tastes and preferences. Large, eye-catching paintings, sculptures, prints, and decorative items are often featured prominently on walls or displayed on stands. This kind of artistic expression adds a personal touch and becomes a focal point in the room, inspiring conversations and inviting exploration. 6. Maximalist Approach Unlike minimalism, which focuses on simplicity and clean lines, eclectic design embraces a maximalist approach. This trend encourages homeowners to go all out and celebrate abundance while embracing the beauty of a diverse collection of elements. You can layer decorative items, accessories, and textures to create an opulent and visually stimulating environment. The key is to strike the right balance between chaos and order to avoid overwhelming the space. 7. Statement Furniture Pieces Eclectic interiors are known for their unique and eye-catching furniture and fixture selections. Homeowners and designers take pride in sourcing statement pieces that attract the eye. These could be an ornate vintage chandelier that illuminates the room with elegance, a boldly upholstered sofa that invites guests to sit in comfort, an ornate stand-alone mirror, or a modern sculptural chair that adds a touch of artistic flair. 8. Mix of Modern and Traditional Elements One of the defining features of eclectic design is the seamless blending of old and contemporary design elements. This means when it comes to designing an eclectic space, the sky's the limit. You can artfully merge antique furniture with modern accessories, or vice versa, to create a harmonious juxtaposition that results in a fascinating space. This approach highlights the design's ability to transcend time and embrace the best of both worlds. 9. Playful Accents The eclectic design allows for experimentation with playful and quirky accents. You can let their imaginations run wild and integrate unconventional decor items like a vintage telephone that adds a touch of nostalgia, an animal-shaped lamp that infuses a sense of whimsy, or a quirky mural that sparks joy and creativity. These playful elements add humour and lightheartedness to the design, making your living space feel welcoming and approachable. 10. Personalised Spaces At its core, eclectic interior design is about creating personalised spaces that reflect the homeowner's unique tastes, interests, personality, and experiences. The freedom to mix and match different design elements allows for a highly individualised approach. Hence, it offers a perfect background to display family heirlooms, cherished mementoes, and travel souvenirs, infusing the space with sentimental value and telling a unique story about the inhabitants' lives. Eclectic interior design is an exciting and diverse style that promotes freedom of expression, creativity and individuality. By blending patterns, textures, colours, and cultural influences, you can create spaces that are visually captivating and deeply personal. With the freedom to mix and match elements from various styles, the eclectic design allows for a truly one-of-a-kind living environment that tells a unique story. Whether you prefer bold colours, vintage charm, or global accents, eclectic interior design provides endless possibilities for designing a home that is uniquely yours. Embrace the art of juxtaposition and discover the joy of creating an eclectic space that reflects your true essence and allows your creativity to flourish. Related Blog Posts Related Rug Collections
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Discover the Luxury of the Sydney Corner Recliner Sofa Introducing the Sydney Corner Recliner Sofa from The A2Z Furniture, the perfect addition to any living room. Designed with both style and comfort in mind, this modular corner sofa features a sleek black air leather finish with white contrast stitching that is both durable and stylish. Air leather is a synthetic material that looks and feels like genuine leather. It is made from high-quality materials that provide the same texture, durability, and luxurious feel as real leather. However, air leather is a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to genuine leather, making it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the look and feel of leather without the high cost and environmental impact. Air leather is easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for busy households. Its unique composition also means that it is resistant to scratches, scuffs, and fading, ensuring that it will maintain its pristine appearance for many years to come. Overall, air leather provides all the benefits of genuine leather without the drawbacks, making it an excellent choice for your furniture needs. The Sydney leather corner sofa features a recliner on one side and a chaise on the other, providing ample seating for up to five people. The chaise part of the sofa also reclines when force is applied to the backrest, making it the perfect spot to kick back and relax after a long day. Cup Holders and Storage In addition to its comfortable seating, the Sydney recliner chair also features convenient cup holders and a small storage compartment, making it the perfect choice for movie nights or family gatherings. The modular design of the Sydney corner lounge with recliners allows the single seat in the middle to be rearranged to fit your space perfectly. And for those who need even more seating, there is an option to purchase an extra seat to make it even bigger (Sydney II). Constructed with high-quality timber frames, this corner sofa is built to last. And with its flat-packed design, it is easy to handle and assemble, with no tools required to fix it in place. At The A2Z Furniture, we are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality furniture at affordable prices. And with our range of corner sofas, including the Sydney corner recliner lounge, we have something for everyone. So why wait? Upgrade your living room today with the perfect recliner sofa for your home. \|Webbing & Zig Zag Spring with High-Density Foam \|No. of Seats \|External Tools Required \|Product Dimension (cm) To visualize your product or package size, click on the size.link and enter the dimensions. - Images are only for illustration; the actual product might be slightly different. Therefore, we highly recommend you visit the store before the purchase. You can order online and pick up for free from our Rocklea warehouse, but only by appointment. Call 07 3161 5415 to arrange pickup, and bring your order confirmation email and photo ID to the store. If you paid by credit card, the cardholder must be there with photo ID to verify details. Note that when using POLI Internet Banking, goods can be picked up or delivered only after funds are received in our Bank Account. We'll email you about this. If someone else is picking up for you, contact us beforehand, or you won't get your goods. Our warehouse is open: - Mon to Fri: 9.30 AM to 4.30 PM - Sat: 9.30 AM to 3.30 PM - Sun and Public Holiday: 10.30 AM to 2.30 PM Choose Pick Up when ordering online, and we'll do the rest. If you want to pick up from our other store, contact us. If products are delayed, our sales team will tell you when they contact you. Note that you must provide your own transportation materials (strapping, rope, protective coverings) for Pick Up purchases. We don't provide them. The cost of delivery is determined by the item and distance. To check the delivery charge, enter your details at checkout. If you have questions about delivery to distant locations, our sales team can help. Contact them before or after your online order. Delivery options depend on availability, your location, and item availability. Call your nearest store to learn more about delivery options. - Delivery is to ground level/front garage only. Extra charges apply for bringing items inside. See Assembly Terms and Conditions for details. - If delivery is to an upstairs area, tell the store to get a quote. - For credit card payments, the cardholder must be present with photo ID to verify details. - If no one is available at the delivery address and time, we will contact you to arrange re-delivery, and extra charges may apply. - Ensure that the furniture can be delivered through appropriate access. - The delivery/assembly charge is non-refundable, so ask us any questions before ordering. Following Terms and Conditions apply, - Available on selected items only. If the product qualifies for it, it will automatically be applied during the checkout process. For any detailed information, please get in touch with us. - Available for outright payments only (No Payment Plan, Layby) - Only available for addresses that are less than 10 km from Rocklea Warehouse. The distance is determined using Google Maps. - Delivery is strict till the garage/ ground floor. The driver will not take it inside, upstairs or unpack the goods. - The standard delivery time frame is within 3 to 7 working days, and there might be delays depending on stock availability. - The delivery driver may call you from a private number before delivery; if the customer does not answer the phone, the driver will not attempt delivery unless instructed to leave goods at the property. - The A2Z Furniture has complete discretion to change any policy aspect without prior notice.
The Art Law Blog Friday, August 21, 2009 "A large number of art attackers appear to be several sandwiches short of the full picnic" Inspired by "the on the Mona Lisa with the unlikely weapon of a teacup," Bloomberg's Martin Gayford : "Why do people attack art?" On some legal issues surrounding art vandalism, see
What exactly do we mean by the term ‘deep meditation’? DhyAna Lakshana (sign of meditation) is mentioned very briefly in the following verse by Lord Shiva: yathA nimilane kAle prapancha naiva pasyati \| Tathaiva unmilanehapi syAdetad dhyAnasya lakshanam \|\| Just like the person, who has his eyes closed, can not see the outer world, in a similar manner, a person who is engrossed in meditation, can't see the same with even his eyes open - and this is the sign of DhyAnam. KulArnavara Tantram 9.19 So, if a meditating person has kept his eyes open, but still he can not see anything around, then it is to be understood that he is properly meditating. So, a properly meditating person is not aware of the existence of the world around him. And, when meditation reaches it's highest stage, that is called the SamAdhi stage and the signs of SamAdhi are slightly different from what is mentioned above. Lord Shiva mentions the following signs: Na shrinoti na chAghrAti na sprishati na pasyati \| Na jAnAti sukham dukkham na cha samlipyate manah \|\| Na chApi kinchit jAnAti na cha vrudhyAti kAshthavat \| Evam shive vilinAtmA samAdistha ihochyate \|\| One who does not hear, does not [perceive] smell, does not touch, does not see, does not feel either pain or pleasure, whose mind is not attached [to anything], who is just like a piece of wood, who does not understand or know anything --- completely merged in Shiva know such a person to be in SamAdhi. Note: “The question: What exactly do we mean by the term ‘deep meditation’?” is licensed by Stack Exchange Inc (https://hinduism.stackexchange.com/); user contributions licensed under CC BY-SA.
Pressure on Women or No? Confusion with "Feminism," or No? I have read dozens of books, articles, and essays on "feminism," pro and against. Is feminism freeing women, or confining them all to act like men or be labeled "unfeminist"? Are feminists going to free the world, or just women? Not many can argue that feminism has helped society a great deal, but how are women adjusting to feminism now? We can have jobs that were originally only for men, we can wear revealing or masculine clothing, and we can curse and drink beer. We don't have to be stay at home moms and we can bring home the bacon. So are we happy? Can women truly do what we want? What about women who want to dress or act traditionally, and women who want to work, sleep, and talk like men? Do they have equal freedoms? Are either, or both, stigmatized? What about all the different definitions of feminism? I'm going to be honest: I'm liberal, but I'm trying to open a discussion between liberals and conservatives. I am doing this in two ways: CALLING SUBMISSIONS FOR POETRY AND INTERVIEW SUBJECTS! Submissions Open Now For Immediate Publication On Our Site. There will be a new section permanently on this site called Feminists' Voice (I request the right to change this title later.) This page is for poetry about feminism by people who identify as female. Please send up to three (3) poems at a time to [email protected] with your name, bio, resume (you can use your general resume, or you can just make a list of jobs you have had), and link to at least one social media page. Your resume will not be published, I just want to verify that you are real humans and not alien robots. It also doesn't have to be perfect, since you're not applying for a position. Please title these emails Feminists' Voice to separate them from our regular submission emails. The Basil O' regretfully can't offer payment at this time, but we do want to publish and spread great work. Must be at least 18 years old to assist in research. Want to have your voice heard? I am looking for people who identify as women to interview for my book, and I am looking for anyone (male or female) to take part in some online surveys (up to 7 questions each.) If you only have a little bit of time, please complete this first survey: https://surveyplanet.com/578c039e26f371f8547bad4c And spread it to others! If you have more time and want to make a difference, whether pro, against, or confused on feminism, then apply for an interview! Our interview subjects will be asked: Regretfully, The Basil O' also can't offer compensation for interview subjects, but if you are passionate, we want your voice to be heard! If you are interested in being interviewed, please follow these instructions: We want to interview as many women as possible, and we want to make a difference. We especially want to hear from you. Artwork by Courtney Kenny Porto
Service Agreement Forms Fillable Forms for all of your Boat MAINTENANCE Needs Is your boat sick? Then you’ve come to the right place! Select one of the options below to make an appointment with our doctors and get your boat up and running again today. Is it your first time with us? No problem! Just click the NEW PATIENT link below to get started. Returning customer? Click the RETURN PATIENT link to skip over the unnecessary parts and get your appointment fast. And remember, Our Doc to Your Dock. We’ll come to you.
This is the third article in a series about Florida’s rapidly evolving property insurance landscape. Here are links to read part 1: Why Florida’s property insurance market is a dumpster fire; and part 2: Property insurance reserves vs. Chris Sprowls’ patience. Reinsurance costs are rising, and struggling property insurers are begging lawmakers to throw them a lifeline during a May 23rd Special Session. But industry experts say that lowering reinsurance costs by making it easier for insurers on the brink of insolvency to access Florida’s Hurricane Catastrophe Fund would only be a temporary fix that rewards bad management. We unpack the issue here. Reinsurance: insurance for insurers Reinsurance, in simple terms, is insurance for insurance companies that protects against catastrophic losses from major events like a hurricane – events that deal substantial damage to a large number of the properties underwritten by an insurer. Reinsurance companies examine an insurer’s portfolio and then price reinsurance coverage based on the risk level. Reinsurance coverage is renewed on an annual basis, and in Florida the renewal deadline for many companies is June 1st. Most solvent insurance companies have already secured reinsurance well ahead of that point, but a number of less-well capitalized companies are currently struggling to find reinsurance coverage they can afford. The lack of adequate reinsurance protection could cause an insurer to be declared insolvent, leaving homeowners unprotected. For example, FedNat, an insurer headquartered in Sunrise, Florida, was given a deadline of July 1st to demonstrate to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation that it has secured adequate reinsurance to protect its 152,000 Florida policyholders. Rising reinsurance costs are squeezing insurance companies Florida property insurers are being squeezed on multiple fronts including excessive litigation and rampant fraud. But rising reinsurance costs are also a factor. This past year, a number of catastrophic insurance losses around the world – such as windstorms, wildfires, floods and earthquakes – have combined to eat through a substantial portion of reinsurance reserves. Those events, combined with rising interest rates in the financial sector, means there are safer places for investors to make money than placing it at risk as collateral in the reinsurance market. Taken together, the catastrophic losses and rising interest rates mean there is less capital available to be used as an emergency reinsurance backstop for property insurers, driving up the prices that reinsurers can charge for their coverage. Those rising reinsurance costs factor prominently on the balance sheet of property insurance companies, like FedNat, that are already struggling to make ends meet. Reinsurance costs eat up a substantial chunk of every premium collected from a homeowner, leaving insurers with little left to pay out claims or make a profit. The hope of a Cat Fund “lifeline” For many property insurance companies, the upcoming May 23rd Special Legislative Session in Tallahassee is viewed with the hope that lawmakers will take a range of actions that will both lower their overall long-term risk while also helping to cut their costs immediately. Among the fixes being floated among Florida lawmakers is the potential adjustment of the retention point (basically lowering the deductible level) of the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund (Cat Fund), a trust fund that pays out after certain insurance loss thresholds are met. By lowering the retention point and making it easier for companies to trigger payouts from the Cat Fund, insurers say it will lower their costs by reducing the amount of reinsurance they need to purchase. Fix Florida’s property insurance market to fix reinsurance But many industry experts say that any legislative fixes to the reinsurance market may be too little, too late. The session comes only a week before the reinsurance renewal deadline, and any companies still struggling to secure reinsurance are already in dire straights to begin with. Larger, solvent insurers with adequately diversified risk portfolios will have long before secured reinsurance coverage. In fact, one of the largest reinsurers, RenaissanceRe, says that lowering the retention rate will have little to no impact on their analysis of the situation in Florida. “That doesn’t change, from RenRe’s perspective,” said RenaissanceRe CEO Kevin O’Donnell in a recent earnings call, “…in what we do or how we’re looking at the market.” As other experts point out, a drop in the retention point for the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund (FHCF) might help a few companies in the short term, but the real problem remains the excessive litigation and fraudulent claims crisis that has created uncertainty for reinsurers and reduced the appetite to offer adequate reinsurance protection. In short, fix the property insurance market, and the reinsurance market will fix itself.
The first ever hybrid laser hair removal device, Splendor X for hair reduction offers the most efficient reduction for unwanted body hair. Safe for all skin types and tones, Splendor X can reduce hair faster than any other cosmetic laser on the market. Splendor X for hair reduction is the first-ever hybrid hair removal technology. This innovative advancement in the world of laser hair removal utilizes Nd:YAG and Alexandrite wavelengths concurrently, offering faster, more efficient treatments. Simultaneously, these two wavelengths target your body’s hair and blood supply with the help of a uniform, square device—the clever use of a square application (as opposed to the traditional rounded applicator) ensures painful overlaps do not occur, and no gaps of untreated hair are left behind. The combined wavelengths provide a safe treatment method for all types and skin tones, making Splendor X a quality option for nearly every individual. Laser hair removal treatments target hair follicles to burn and destroy them by utilizing various wavelengths that match the pigmentation of the patient’s hair. Once the follicles are targeted, the laser sends waves of heat to the germinal cells responsible for hair growth, permanently injuring them and stunting their production process. The hair growth cycle occurs in 3 stages—the growth stage (anagen), the transition stage (catagen), and the rest stage (telogen). Germinal cells are only attached to the hair during the growth stage, so heat can only successfully transfer to the germ cell at this point of the cycle. Follicles that are in the other two stages during the time of treatment will not receive the benefits of Splendor X sessions. For this reason, the team at Aesthetic Clinique recommends several treatment sessions to stunt hair growth completely. Traditional laser hair removal treatments can take between 90 minutes to two hours, but Splendor X for hair reduction generally only takes between 30 to 40 minutes. Patients who undergo Splendor X treatment can enjoy the luxury of laser hair removal that does not interrupt their schedule. Though multiple treatment sessions are recommended for all laser hair removal treatments, Splendor X treatments are much quicker and less frequent, making multiple sessions easier on your schedule. On average, four to six treatment sessions are required for optimal, long-lasting results. Patients who undergo six sessions of Splendor X can expect a reduction in up to 95 percent of hair in the treated area—traditional laser treatments can take up to 12 sessions before long-lasting results become apparent. Some minor redness is common immediately after treatment but should not impact your routine and will fade on its own. There is no downtime necessary after Splendor X treatments, but you should avoid excessive sun exposure for at least four weeks following treatment. Initial repeat sessions will be spaced four to six weeks apart, and after six sessions patients will only need maintenance touch-ups once or twice a year. We cater to the discerning client, who desires the upmost in customer service, quality of care, and cosmetic results. We encourage our prospective clients to do their research. We are confident that you will not find a facility which matches our experience in conjunction with our comprehensive collection of services.Contact Us The Splendor X takes the two most common wavelengths used for laser hair reduction, 755nm (Alexandrite) and 1064nm (Nd:YAG), and combines them to fire simultaneously. The Alexandrite laser is the gold standard for treating pigmented hair in skin types 1-4. The laser heats up the hair which transmits the heat to the deeper aspect of the hair shaft to destroy the hair germ cells. For darker skin types (5-6), the only safe laser is the Nd:YAG for hair reduction. However, in the lighter skin types, the 1064nm wavelength can also be used to target the blood vessels of the hair follicle. Therefore, in types 1-4, both lasers are used simultaneously to target the hair follicle with two different targets – hair pigment and follicle vascularity – leading to superior hair reduction results. In the darker skin types, mostly the 1064nm wavelength is used with minimal use of the 755nm for safety purposes. The combination of the two lasers is carefully concentrated by the operated to the appropriate mix according to skin type, hair color, and hair thickness. The Aesthetic Clinique is my go to for professional skin products, treatments & advice on skin care. The staff is exceptional, knowledgeable, professional & personable! I completely trust every member of the staff & have always had good results from treatments, procedures & recommended skin care. -Kristi PSee all reviews For quality Splendor X hair removal treatments, patients located near Santa Rosa Beach, FL can trust Aesthetic Clinique to provide the most efficient treatments on the market. Book a complimentary consultation to begin your journey to hair-free confidence.
This playful holiday design is a unique twist on the traditional red and green. The cute pink accents tie together perfectly with plenty of freshwater pearls all centered around a handmade candy cane bead. The Grace Bracelet includes real gemstones and glass beads along with the shiny freshwater pearls. The handcrafted ladybug, gingerbread man, Santa, tree cookie, and music note all help this bracelet come together to create a stunning design. We are very dedicated to our cause of helping shelter animals and that is why parts of every sale go to rescues that help save them. Size Guide: Small 6.5”, Medium 7”, Large 7.5”, Extra Large 8”
– By Sanjay Pandey As part of its efforts to attract investments, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was in London recently. CM visit to UK is part of his effort to ensure succuss to the Dec proposed investment summit in Uttarakhand. Chief Minister is leaving no stone unturned to ensure investments come to the hill state. While addressing the meeting in London, Chief Minister Dhami said taking into account a large turnout, even london is also looking like mini uttarakhand. He said the purpose of his visit to London is to attract investments for the state. Talking of Uttarakhand, he said uttarkhand which is identified as Devbhumi has been a source of attraction of spiritual seekers. He said the state represents a rich cultural heritage. Chief Minister also appealed them to visit uttarakhand at least once a year. Uttarakhand Chief Minister also took opportunity to praise Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efforts towards taking the nation towards new highs in terms of progress. “India today is becoming a vishwaguru and the successful soft landing of Chandrayaan 3 amply reflects that”, Chief minister Dhami pointed out. Secretary to the CM Dr R Meenakshi Sundaram, secretary Vinay Shankar Pandey and Director General Industries Rohit Meena were prominent present on the ocassion. Earlier, non resident Uttarakhandis gave a presentation of Garhwali, Kumaoni and Jaunsari dance numbers. It is noteworthy that a delegation from Uttarakhand led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is on a five day visit to Britain from Sept 25. The visit is aimed to invite industrialists to Investment Summit proposed to be held in state capital Dehradun in December. The delegation is visiting the cities of London and Birmingham. Uttarakhand CM is holding meetings with those engaged in tourism, healthcare, education, food processing sectors.
Kent property tycoon Fergus Wilson, who owns hundreds of houses and flats, increased the rent of some 400 tenants by £50 within an hour of the Bank of England’s 0.25 percent interest rate rise. The rent rise is equivalent to a hike of 10 percent for tenants who were paying rents of £500 a month. Earlier in 2018, he announced he was evicting four pregnant women from his properties during a clash with Ashford council over its emergency maintenance policy. Wilson also infamously tried to argue in court that he was justified in implementing a ban on “coloured” renters because they “leave a curry smell behind”. The list of people Wilson will not rent to also includes victims of domestic violence (because their ex-partners ‘may damage properties’) and those on housing benefit. In 2014, Wilson sent an eviction notice to every one of his tenants requiring housing benefits and has written to letting agents stating that he will no longer consider tenants who require housing benefits. On banning victims of domestic abuse, he said: “it’s terrible what happens to these women, I hate it. But quite honestly it costs us a lot of money.” Regarding those on housing benefit: “It’s for the council to provide accommodation for poor people, not private sector landlords.” Council housing has, however, been completely decimated in favour of private landlords such as Wilson. The vast majority of new houses today are being built by private developers, not for sale or rent to ordinary workers but as investment opportunities for the rich. Development for profit leads to shoddy building practices, small room sizes, and inadequate provision of green spaces, community facilities, transport links and other amenities. Instead of building and maintaining social housing, the government is using the housing budget to subsidise private developers and keep their profits high. The law is also used to favour landlords at the expense of tenants, meaning Wilson is far from alone in his discriminatory practices. An investigation carried out by the housing charity Shelter found that one in 10 letting branches had a blanket ban in place rejecting any applicants on housing benefits, and research conducted by Citizens Advice has found that nearly half of tenants who make a formal complaint about their housing are evicted by their landlords as revenge – some 47,000 people each year. These evictions are made possible because of section 21 notices under the 1988 housing act, which allow landlords to force out tenants on a no-fault basis. Home ownership in Britain is at a 30-year low, with private renting doubling since 2004, and half of all people in England aged 25 to 34 pay a private landlord for their accommodation. House prices across Britain are now, on average, 7.6 times the average annual salary – a figure which has more than doubled in the past 20 years. The median price for a home increased by 259 percent over this period, while average earnings only rose by 68 percent. The vast majority of new houses are being built by private developers. In 2016-17, of the 40,534 homes built in London, 33,642 were built for the private market. Rich investors and hedge funds buy up the homes at ever more exorbitant prices, with the intent of renting them for eye-watering sums or even leaving them unoccupied as they increase in value. The pulling down of working-class housing estates in desirable city-centre locations (so that the sites can be redeveloped commercially) is adding fuel to the fire. These estate demolitions, while driving thousands of workers out of previously secure homes and into the waiting arms of private landlords (driving up rents and pushing down standards for most) are making room for yet more luxury developments in which the super-rich can rest their surplus capital. The council housing sell-off has effectively abolished the right to a home. For this situation to change, councils would have to begin requisitioning or building – and maintaining – as much social housing as necessary to house decently every worker who needs a home, at low rents and with assured tenancies. Decent, secure and affordable housing can exist for workers without the need for individual ownership of housing. However, as Labour, Tory, and all the other political parties have shown no inclination to provide for our material needs, it falls to us to organise ourselves, and to build a society that is capable of meeting our needs.
Participatory performance transforming bodies to the inner spirit bird As a part of the event The city with a bird perspective / Staden med ett fågelperspektiv the performance artist Pernilla Ljungkvist conducted the participatory performance titled Andefågeln – Becoming Spirit Bird, in which the audience, arranged in a plow formation reminiscent of migrating birds, listened to a sound piece through headphones and moving their bodies in a shaking manner with closed eyes. Drawing inspiration from studies revealing that a flock of 25 birds flying in a plow formation can achieve enhanced energy efficiency and lower heart rates, participants explored whether they could replicate this effect collectively. The subsequent phase involved a transformation leaving their own bodies and trying to become their inner spirit bird. When making research for the performance, Pernilla Ljungkvist came across an article about the city reeds where the author several times referred to andefågeln, the spirit bird. Mesmerised of what kind of bird this could have been living in the reeds, she upon closer examination of the text saw that it actually said andfågeln, the duck – a collective name for certain kind of water birds, the oldest bird species. When the reeds were filled there was no longer space for the ducks. This discovery prompted contemplation about the existence of a personal Spirit Bird within each individual, a timeless essence that evolves over time but may have been overshadowed by other priorities and chased away. In the performance, the participants were invited to see if they could find their own spirit bird navigating through three phases: shedding the perception of their human body to make space for the emergence of the Spirit Bird, initiating the transformation process, and ultimately opening up to sense the collective flock energy. After the performance the participants shared their inner experience in the group and together with Anita Campbell, a scholar in neurochemistry, and Leif Lithander, a zoologist providing valuable insights into both the place and the inner life of birds. Anita shared her knowledge on birds’ cognitive abilities, explaining their visual, auditory, and learning capacities, highlighting how research on songbirds has yielded insights into human diseases.
One year’s FREE subscription to NHS approved wellbeing app for the music and live events industries April is Stress Awareness Month; as good a time as any to look after your mental health. Thanks to support from the BRIT Trust, BPI, BRIT Awards and partners from the recorded music sector, Music Support, the charity that helps those in the music and live events industry affected by mental ill-health and/or addiction is proud to offer one year’s FREE subscription (for a limited period) to NHS approved mental health app, Thrive. With over 100 hours of content and clinically designed mental health tools, Thrive helps people to manage stress, anxiety and depression. Further details can be found on Music Support’s website here along with testimonials from industry peers and a link to register to set up your free Thrive account. You will then have access to the app’s many amazing features including the CBT programme, meditation, calm breathing and live coaching, a confidential text message service that puts users in direct contact with a qualified psychologist who can address immediate concerns they may have for themselves or a friend/colleague/family member. Whilst Thrive is really beneficial for those in immediate distress it also acts as a preventative tool, guiding users through how to look after their mental health during the current pandemic (and beyond). Further information here - https://musicsupport.org/thrive-app/ If you have any questions or feedback on using the app please contact [email protected]
'TikTok Designer' Emily Zugay Redesigns Logos For Chuckles and Gets Brands In On the Action by Rudy Sanchez on 09/24/2021 \| 2 Minute Read Change can be difficult, and logo refreshes are no exception. When it comes to iconic and globally recognized brands, a polarizing switch to a beloved logo can send fans into a veritable tizzy. And in the digital period of the Anthropocene age, everyone is a critic with a platform, whether they ought to be or not. Of course, it’s easy to lob negative critiques at brands from the peanut gallery, but simply saying “this sucks, I hate it” doesn’t add value to the conversation. One could sit in front of their keyboard, thesaurus at the ready, and bang out a few hundred words bloviating about a redesign project for some blog, or, if you’ve got the comedic chops of Emily Zugay, you go with deadpan satire, to dazzling effect. Ms. Zugay’s “redesigns” are as much a scathing critique of a particular logo as they are on how logos and brand designs are created and discussed. In her Toks—I’m told that’s what the kids call TikTok posts—Emily presents her redesigns in a monotone and expressionless manner similar to the ennui of a tortured artist, and her apathetic performance is reminiscent of MTV’s Daria, Bob’s Burger’s Tina Belcher, and April Ludgate from Parks and Recreation. Reaction for Zugay’s “redesigns” has been overwhelmingly positive, with brands such as TikTok and McDonald’s changing their expensive, and forged in Dante-levels of email rounds, logos with Emily’s lo-fi send-ups. For McDonald’s, Emily decided to take focus away from the Golden Arches, emphasizing the O and not the M, because reasons ("I don't think that you meant for your logo to look suggestive, but right now, this looks like two knees to me. I don't want to be thinking about knees when I'm eating my McChicken"). She didn’t mince words in her critique of Starbucks’ long-tenured logo either and took a blunt, MS-Paint-shaped hatchet to the Seattle-based company’s shingle, gutting the siren, keeping the stars, and replacing Starbucks-Sans with something akin to...Papyrus? It’s unclear whether these social media brand managers are simply chasing attention or are earnestly in on the joke. In any case, Emily’s redesigns have, at the very least, provided some lighthearted respite from the overwhelming negativity typically conjured whenever a brand changes it up.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will be the third and likely final installment of the franchise that is spearheaded by James Gunn. Gunn made his MCU debut as the director of 2014's Guardians of the Galaxy, which featured an all-star cast that includes Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Karen Gillan, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, and Bradley Cooper. The ragtag group of cosmic heroes with a heart was propelled by an impressive story and chemistry between cast members, thus earning box office success that eventually led to a sequel being greenlit. The same thing happened during Vol. 2, with the film's standalone story serving as the highlight alongside powerful emotional beats throughout its narrative. Many would agree that the common denominator of the Guardians' success is its soundtrack. The franchise greatly benefited from Gunn's musical choices through his Awesome Mixtapes, which were further bolstered by the film's score. Tyler Bates, who worked on films like Watchmen and Super, served as the composer of the first two Guardians films. Gunn has been vocal about Bates' work, admitting that he is impressed by his approach when it comes to crafting a perfect score. Now, as Guardians inches closer to its finale, it looks like the franchise mainstay has been replaced by a Marvel newcomer. Veteran Guardians Composer Not Returning for Vol. 3 Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 director James Gunn sat down with CinemaBlend to talk about the behind-the-scenes development of the threequel. During the interview, Gunn confirmed that Tyler Bates, who worked as the composer of the first two Guardians films, had been replaced by The Suicide Squad's John Murphy. Apart from the confirmation, Gunn also gave a rundown of the planning stages for the threequel: "I had to get off of a Zoom right before this Zoom because I was talking to all of my heads of department. We were going through the finale of the film from shot to shot, to shot, to shot and explaining exactly how each shot was going to be done. Now, this stuff we're going to shoot in May. So this is about just planning. After I get off of this, I'm going to have to go listen to some music that John Murphy wrote that we're going to be playing during the movie. … I guess I'm spoiling the fact that John Murphy is doing the score for Guardians. So you guys got a scoop." Vol. 3 will serve as Murphy's debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Aside from The Suicide Squad, Murphy is also known for his work on Kick-Ass, 28 Days Later, and Miami Vice. The Suicide Squad Composer Sets MCU Debut Murphy might be a Marvel newcomer, but he is definitely not a stranger when it comes to scoring superhero movies due to his experience with The Suicide Squad. Murphy's previous working experience with James Gunn during the DCEU film is definitely a plus since it should allow for a smooth transition from one project to another. Specific details of why Tyler Bates will not return as composer for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 are unknown, but it's possible that he might have another project in the works or the pandemic forced him to give up the movie. Not much is known about Murphy's approach when it comes to crafting a score for Vol. 3, but previous interviews could shed some light on the matter. During the production of The Suicide Squad, Murphy revealed in a previous interview that Gunn hand-picked him for the DCEU hybrid sequel, with the director asking him to begin scoring it while principal photography was still ongoing. This same approach could potentially be adapted to Vol. 3, and it's safe to say that Gunn, who has a keen sense of music, would also be hands-on in the scoring department. It's no secret that Vol. 3 will be an emotional film due to previous teases that this will be the last movie of the current iteration of the Guardians. That said, it looks like Murphy could go all-out in terms of delivering a powerful score to reflect the emotional beats of the threequel. In addition, Bates' previous score could also be honored within Murphy's music, combining it with his own theme to create another memorable composition for the Guardians' third installment. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is set to premiere in theaters on May 5, 2023.
Star Wars merchandise is a staple for the fandom, particularly for those who are fans of the franchise's films and TV series. The Star Wars video games have been highly popular for decades, but few merchandising opportunities have presented themselves. Since the Disney acquisition of Lucasfilm, the most notable gaming products have been an assortment of Black Series figures based on the Battlefront titles and Jedi: Fallen Order , alongside a few tie-in books and Funko Pops!. The Knights of the Old Republic series is among the most popular of all the Star Wars video games. There were plenty of toys and books inspired the games and era in the Lucas days, but options on that front have quieted in recent years. Funko recently announced a small selection of Pop! bobbleheads featuring Revan and Darth Malak , and a Revan Black Series elite lightsaber was recently released. But the excitement doesn't end there, as Hasbro has unveiled a few new action figures that will make fine additions to fans' collections... Hasbro has officially revealed Black Series action figures inspired by Jedi Knight Revan and Darth Nihilus from Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic , coming exclusively to Gamestop. Below are images of the upcoming Revan Black Series figure, available for preorder here : The Darth Nihilus addition to the popular 6 inch figure line can also be seen below and preordered here : WHAT THIS MEANS These figures look phenomenal, perfectly capturing the iconic imagery of the Jedi and Sith warriors fans have come to love from the video game world. While the packaging for Revan actually identifies the figure as being pulled from Galaxy of Heroes , the character originated in KOTOR and was included in the EA mobile game with other characters from the classic series. This is one of the first Darth Nihilus action figures to come in ages, and character looks amazing in 6 inch scale. Interestingly, both figures come in the old Black Series packaging, so these will likely be the last two of their kind before Hasbro fully transitions to more dynamic boxes. It's a good time to be a KOTOR fan if you're into collectibles, and the continued reveals of figures inspired by the games could be a sign of more neat things to come.
Warning - This article contains minor spoilers for The Mandalorian Season 2. The Mandalorian Season two premiere has officially landed. In every part of the globe where Disney+ is available, people are tuning in to catch the continued adventures of bounty hunter Din Djarin and The Child, who has been placed in his care. Back in Season one, Djarin's travels took him to Tatooine, the former home of Luke Skywalker. It was there that he bargained with some Tusken Raiders (also known as Sand People) for safe passage through their land. It was revealed during that scene that Djarin knows how to converse with the Tuskens through their own form of sign language. However, in Season two when Din Djarin returns to Tatooine, a new layer is added to his interactions with the Tusken Raiders. In the first episode of Season two of The Mandalorian , Din Djarin must join forces with the Tusken Raiders to achieve a common goal. It is during these scenes that the character speaks the language of the Tuskens. Actor Pedro Pascal has taken to Twitter to respond to the query of whether it was him performing the series of grunts that make up the Tusken language. Check out the Tweet below: The titular Mandalorian really is full of surprises, isn't he? Djarin has routinely been portrayed as pretty capable and resourceful. He might not always have the greatest handle on a given situation but he can usually find a way to pull through. The fact that he's fluent in Tusken should come as no surprise. The Mandalorian S eason two premiere is now streaming on Disney+. The next episode drops Friday, November 6, 2020.
One issue that digital DJs face is the lack of compatibility between different software applications. Once you commit to using a program like Traktor Pro 2, it’s no easy task to switch to another program like Cross DJ. It’s not because the features are vastly different, but rather due to the time it takes to prepare your tracks for a second time as each software application has its own method of storing your tracks’ cue points, key, and beatgrids. Rekord Buddy from Next Audio Labs solves this problem for users of Traktor Pro 2 and Pioneer’s Rekordbox. While there have been some other library converters in the past, none have been as comprehensive as Rekord Buddy. This is great if you regularly use both Traktor Pro 2 and Pioneer CDJs or want to try out one or the other without investing too much time beforehand. Unlike other converters, Rekord Buddy allows you to choose whether you want sync everything or be specific in what you sync. Not only that, but it can standardize metadata between libraries. For example, if you use multiple programs that key tracks in different notation schemes, Rekord Buddy can convert them to the notation of your choosing.
In the dynamic landscape of healthcare, managing Durable Medical Equipment (DME) efficiently is crucial for organizations. The DME consultant plays a pivotal role in guiding and assisting healthcare entities in this complex task. Let’s delve into the multifaceted ways in which a DME consultant can significantly benefit your organization. Understanding the DME Consultant the DME consultants are professionals with specialized expertise in the management of durable medical equipment. Their role encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, from ensuring regulatory compliance to optimizing operational processes within healthcare organizations. Navigating Regulatory Compliance Healthcare regulations are ever-evolving, and compliance is non-negotiable. the DME consultant act as navigators in this complex terrain, providing organizations with the necessary insights and strategies to meet regulatory requirements effectively. This ensures that the organization operates within the bounds of the law, avoiding potential legal pitfalls. Optimizing DME Operations Efficiency in DME management is crucial for both cost-effectiveness and quality patient care. DME consultants assist organizations in streamlining processes, implementing best practices, and leveraging technology for better inventory control. The result is a well-organized and optimized system that contributes to the overall success of the healthcare facility. Cost Management and Financial Planning Procuring and maintaining medical equipment can be a significant financial burden. DME consultants specialize in developing strategies for cost-effective procurement, maintenance, and replacement of equipment. Their financial planning expertise ensures that organizations make informed decisions that align with their budgetary constraints. Enhancing Quality of Patient Care The connection between effective DME management and the quality of patient care cannot be overstated. DME consultants prioritize the sourcing of high-quality equipment, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care. This focus on quality extends to regular maintenance and timely replacement of outdated equipment, contributing to positive patient outcomes. Training and Development Programs A well-trained staff is essential for the smooth functioning of any healthcare organization. DME consultants implement training and development programs that enhance the skills of the workforce, ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle the intricacies of DME management. This proactive approach contributes to a competent and confident staff. Adapting to Technological Advancements The healthcare industry is continually evolving, with new technologies shaping the landscape. DME consultant stay abreast of these technological advancements and guide organizations in adopting and integrating relevant technologies. This forward-thinking approach positions organizations at the forefront of innovation in healthcare. Addressing Challenges in DME Every organization faces unique challenges in DME management. DME consultants conduct comprehensive assessments, identify challenges, and propose tailored solutions. Whether it’s inventory issues, equipment maintenance, or staff training, consultants address these challenges head-on, contributing to the overall resilience of the organization. Real-life examples provide tangible evidence of the positive impact of DME consulting services. Organizations that have collaborated with DME consultants showcase improvements in operational efficiency, cost savings, and enhanced patient care. These case studies serve as testament to the practical benefits of seeking professional guidance. The voice of satisfied clients speaks volumes about the value of DME consulting. Quotes and feedback from organizations highlight the tangible benefits experienced, fostering confidence in the expertise and guidance provided by consultants. Client testimonials offer a glimpse into the positive transformations achieved through collaboration. Measuring Success and Return on Investment Metrics are essential for evaluating the success of DME consulting services. Consultants work with organizations to define key performance indicators (KPIs) and establish benchmarks. This data-driven approach enables organizations to measure the return on investment, showcasing the tangible outcomes and improvements resulting from consulting services. Future Trends in DME Consulting The landscape of healthcare is ever-changing, and DME consultants adapt to emerging trends. From the integration of artificial intelligence in equipment management to innovative approaches in training programs, the future holds exciting possibilities. DME consultants are at the forefront of these trends, guiding organizations toward sustainable and forward-thinking practices. In conclusion, the role of the DME consultant goes beyond addressing immediate challenges; it encompasses strategic planning, regulatory compliance, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Organizations that invest in DME consulting services position themselves for long-term success, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the complexities of the healthcare landscape. - How does The DME consultant assist in regulatory compliance? - the DME consultant provides insights, conducts audits, and develops strategies to ensure organizations comply with healthcare regulations. - What technologies are The DME consultant recommending for better equipment management? - the DME consultant stays updated on emerging technologies, with recommendations ranging from advanced inventory software to IoT-enabled equipment tracking. - Can The DME consultant work with organizations of all sizes? - Yes, DME consultants tailor their services to the specific needs and size of each organization, ensuring customized solutions. - How quickly can organizations expect to see improvements after engaging with a DME consultant? - The timeline for improvements varies, but organizations often experience positive changes within a few months of implementing consultant-recommended strategies.
Kellogg's to break into cereal, snacks and plant food branches Kellogg Co, the maker of Frosted Flakes, Rice Krispies and Eggo will be splitting into three companies focused on cereals, snacks and plant-based foods respectively. Kellogg’s which also owns MorningStar Farms, the plant-based food maker, said on Tuesday that the spinoff of the yet to be named cereal and plant-based foods companies should be completed by the end of next year. Kelloggs had net sales of $14.2 billion in the year 2021, with $11.4 billion generated by its its snack division. Cereal accounted for another $2.4 billion in sales last year while plant-based sales were around $340 million. The CEO of Kelloggs, Steve Cahillane said that these businesses all have significant standalone potential, and an enhanced focus will enable them to better direct their resources toward their distinct strategic priorities. Shareholders will receive shares in the two spin-offs on a pro-rata basis relative to their Kellogg holdings. The company’s corporate headquarters will move from Battle Creek, Michigan, to Chicago, but it will maintain its dual headquarters in both cities for its snack branch, which makes up about 80% of current sales. Kellogg’s three international headquarters in Europe, Latin America, and AMEA will remain in their current locations. As per an observation, companies have begun to split up at an accelerated pace, including General Electric, IBM and Johnson & Johnson, but such splits are more rare for food producers. The last major split in the sector was in in 2012, when Kraft split to create Mondelez. The shares of Kellogg Co. jumped 8% to $73.29 before the opening bell on Tuesday. (With Agency inputs)
Emily Jashinsky: The public waited on Kanye West’s “Donda” release with bated breath for weeks. Now that it’s out, the reaction seems to be mixed. What’s not debatable, however, is West’s cultural impact and West’s counter-cultural message. What did you think of the record, Madeline? Madeline Osburn: For starters, it’s very long. More than two hours of music which is more than double the length of his last two albums. I think the music is good, but not every track is necessary, and it makes it challenging to slog through. Just like writers need a good editor, I think Kanye needed someone telling him “no” and I doubt many people like that exist in his inner circle. “Jesus is King” was such a hit because it was so unexpected, almost otherworldly. Kanye has been through so much since that album came out, and “Donda” reflects that, but it doesn’t carry the magic that his passion and convictions in “Jesus is King” delivered. Instead, “Donda” feels both melancholy and scattered at times, which is appropriate for an album that mourns the deaths of his mother and Kobe Bryant, and works through the pain of his very public divorce. “Architectural Digest, but I needed home improvement / Sixty-million-dollar home, never went home to it,” he raps on the track “Hurricane.” “Genius gone clueless, it’s a whole lot to risk.” As a “Kimye” fan, it made me sad. It carries some of the same counter-cultural gospel messages of “Jesus is King,” but much less of the actual gospel music (although some of Kanye’s best singing to date). I predict that much like the frustrations fans felt with Kanye locking himself inside Mercedez Benz stadium for weeks and teasing multiple false releases, fans will be emotionally exhausted with the music, but glad it’s finally here. EJ: “Jesus Is King” was shockingly conservative (and “Yeezus” was sonically brilliant), which probably set expectations for “Donda” high, in addition to the dramatic life changes he underwent between both records. Obviously, anything from Kanye named “Donda” will be hotly anticipated too, given the public’s understanding of how central a role his mother’s death plays in his life. So what did we actually learn from “Donda”? What emotional or artistic value does it have for listeners? Especially given Kanye’s political and cultural relevance. MO: If you read any reviews or media coverage, critics are absolutely bashing both “Donda” and Kanye as a person right now. There is some merit to their critiques, but I think the real reason is a combination of those high expectations you mention and an underlying dislike for Kanye’s chaotic foray into politics and religion. They couldn’t really make those critiques of “Jesus is King” because it was so widely popular, but with “Donda” the gloves are off and they’re back writing him off as an egomaniac, which is not entirely untrue. But It’s hard to imagine them getting upset about Kanye including DaBaby or Marilyn Manson on the album if he was a raging pro-abortion lefty. So as far as what this means to listeners, it’s commendable for him to not back down from his convictions, even if it costs him popularity in media and music bubbles. I was always skeptical that he would stick with his pledge to no longer make secular music, and while one could argue some lyrics fudge that promise, Kanye’s faith journey still comes out in the art. In fact, his faith is arguably even more authentic on this album as he leans on God while going through the valleys of divorce and grief.
Manchester United transfer target Matthijs de Ligt is 'not 100% happy' at Bayern Munich and could leave the club in the summer, according to reports in Germany. De Ligt has tumbled down the Bayern pecking order this season with head coach Thomas Tuchel preferring Dayot Upamecano and summer signing Kim Min-jae as his first-choice centre-back duo. The Dutchman had started all five of Bayern's Bundesliga matches following the winter break until Saturday's title showdown at Bayer Leverkusen, with Eric Dier replacing De Ligt in the starting lineup as Bayern lost 3-0. When asked by BILD post-match whether he was nursing an injury or fit to play, De Ligt was 'visibly frustrated' and replied: "Top fit!" Later reporting from BILD added De Ligt is understandably not content with life at Bayern, while Tuchel is also keen on bringing in another centre-back, with Barcelona's Ronald Araujo and Leverkusen's Jonathan Tah among his top targets. 90min Man Utd WhatsApp channel Looking to keep up to date with everything happening at Old Trafford? Click this link or scan the QR code below to follow 90min's Man Utd WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to receive all the latest news! At this rate, De Ligt's best possible chance of remaining at Bayern will come through a change of manager, which is plausible if they do not retain the Bundesliga - the reigning champions are now five points behind Leverkusen after Saturday's defeat at the BayArena. De Ligt's unhappiness at Bayern will be noteworthy to United, whose interest in the 24-year-old was first reported by Sky Sports Germany last month. Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag managed De Ligt at Ajax and the two could reunite at Old Trafford this summer. United could lose Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans on free transfers at the end of the season with their contracts on the verge of expiration - Ten Hag has admitted the club are waiting to decide their futures - while Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof have also been linked with exits. Despite being drawn in the same Champions League group, De Ligt did not face Ten Hag's United this season, remaining an unused substitute in Bayern's 4-3 win at the Allianz Arena before being ruled out of the return fixture with a knee injury. READ THE LATEST MAN UTD NEWS, TRANSFER RUMOURS & GOSSIP Inter Miami - Orlando City: times, how to watch on TV, stream online \| MLS Real Sociedad - PSG: how to watch on TV, stream online \| UEFA Champions League Kevin De Bruyne would prefer move to MLS over Saudi Arabia Bayern Munich - Lazio: how to watch on TV, stream online \| UCL Gary Neville doubles down on Chelsea 'billion-pound bottlejobs' comments Joe Gomez responds to claims Jurgen Klopp could stay at Liverpool Who will Mexico play in the 2024 CONCACAF W Gold Cup quarter-finals? Report: Barcelona lay out demands to Roberto De Zerbi over Brighton exit
Accelerate your workplace productivity when you wear the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2 Smart Glasses. A total upgrade on the original, these smart glasses offer vital information all hands-free. Glass Enterprise Edition 2 lets you look at your checklist, follow instructions, and even send photos and videos. Each function is designed to help your team work smarter than ever before. Worn just like traditional glasses, Glass Enterprise Edition 2 features Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1 and runs on Android. With a longer battery life than ever, they quickly charge with the included USB-C cable. Likewise, they’re complete with a faster AI engine than their predecessor. Along with all this, the Glass Enterprise Edition 2 also come in a more versatile safety glass design. These can be worn in environments where safety goggles are required, keeping workers safe and informed.
Super Chocolatey and chewy Dark chocolate Cookies; the addition of Salted Nuts with the dark chocolate makes these cookies simply irresistible! Just look at these huge chocolatey chocolate cookies. These cookie have got it all. SWEET, SALTY, CRUNCHY and CHEWY its got everything in one bite. A PERFECT Harmony. Don’t cha think?
GLUTEN FREE CONFIDENCE SCORE: 9/10 All Jose Cuervo Tequilas are gluten-free, but there’s one thing to remember. Jose Cuervo carries a lot of different products other than just their tequila, including margarita mixes/blended beverages. Some of these are gluten-free, and some of these aren’t. If you are living a gluten-free lifestyle, advise to stick with Jose Cuervo’s pure tequila products, and make you own margarita mixes instead. Please read the ingredient and nutrition label carefully. Need help in understanding what to look for on those labels? We have a guide - check it out!
The use of gold in jewelry is a practice that has been around for centuries. In many cultures, it was considered a sign of wealth and power. Gold has been used to create intricate pieces with delicate designs, as well as larger, more ornate pieces. It is versatile enough to be turned into any type of jewelry imaginable. Throughout history, gold jewelry was often seen as a status symbol, and some people wore it to show off their wealth. As time passed, it also became associated with love and beauty. For example, when the ancient Egyptians created their elaborate tombs, they filled them with all kinds of jewels made from gold. The Romans also used it to make beautiful necklaces, earrings, and other items which were often given as gifts or worn to express devotion and loyalty. Today, gold jewelry continues to be popular for its elegance and classic style. Designers use this precious metal in necklaces, bracelets, earrings and other pieces that can be modernized for a contemporary look or kept traditional for an exquisite touch of timelessness. With so many variations available today, there is something suitable for everyone who wants to add a little sparkle to their wardrobe. From being used as a sign of wealth and power centuries ago to becoming a fashionable accessory today – gold jewelry has come a long way! Its versatility allows us to find the perfect piece for any occasion or style preference – making it the ideal choice for anyone looking for the perfect addition to their wardrobe. Jewelry has been a part of human culture for thousands of years. Throughout history, gold has been used in some capacity to craft beautiful and intricate pieces that have adorned the bodies of royalty, celebrities, and everyday people alike. From ancient Egyptian mummies wearing elaborate necklaces made from precious metals to modern-day engagement rings crafted with diamonds set in rose gold, one thing is certain—gold jewelry will always be an integral part of our cultural heritage. In this article, we’ll take a look at the fascinating history behind gold jewelry and explore its evolution through time. From Ancient Egypt to the Roman Empire Throughout much of our recorded history, gold was used as currency as well as decorative adornment. The first known use of gold dates all the way back to 3100 BC when it began appearing on various artifacts in Ancient Egypt. It served both practical and aesthetic purposes during this era; Egyptians would wear jewelry made out of pure gold or incorporate it into their clothing designs to show off their wealth and status. As Ancient Egyptian civilization gave rise to the mighty Roman Empire, so too did the artistry behind crafting gold jewelry continue evolving. During this period, intricate filigree work was introduced which allowed for more creative expression within metalworking techniques. The Renaissance and Beyond By the 15th century AD (1400’s), Europe had entered what is now known as “The Renaissance,” a period of great artistic revival throughout many countries on the continent. This new wave of ideas brought about advanced technologies such as casting which allowed jewelers to create incredibly detailed pieces using molten metal instead of shaping them by hand. This style quickly spread across other parts of Europe where it flourished until eventually making its way over to North America during colonial times. From then on forward, gold jewelry continued gaining popularity with each passing generation who put their own unique spin onto existing styles while creating entirely new ones altogether! The history of gold jewelry dates back to ancient cultures, many of which placed a great deal of value on precious metals. Gold was used as currency and in religious ceremonies by the Egyptians, Minoans, Persians, Greeks and Romans. It symbolized wealth, power and status among these civilizations. In some cases it even had magical properties that were believed to bring good luck or ward off evil spirits. Jewelry made out of gold reflected this perceived importance; pieces often featured intricate designs with images depicting gods and goddesses. Gold has been coveted throughout the centuries due to its malleability and resistance to tarnish or rust. It is also non-toxic so it can be safely worn against the skin without fear of allergic reactions or other health issues. Today we still appreciate gold for its beauty and symbolism although modern uses are far more practical such as engagement rings and wedding bands. Gold remains an important part of our culture even today, signifying love between two people in marriage, honoring special achievements like winning medals at sporting events, or simply decorating ourselves with something beautiful. The history of gold jewelry is a long and fascinating one. From ancient times to the present day, gold has been used as a symbol of wealth and status, with intricate designs crafted for special occasions or simply for adornment. Throughout its history, gold jewelry has also had spiritual associations and was believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. Gold jewelry can be found in all cultures around the world today, from traditional folk designs to modern pieces that reflect contemporary fashion trends. Gold’s popularity continues due to its durability, beauty and symbolic significance. Many people still choose it for wedding rings, engagement gifts, family heirlooms or just everyday jewelry because of its timeless appeal. Whether it’s an antique piece passed down through generations or a brand new design made using advanced technology, gold remains an enduring part of our lives. As we look back at the rich historical legacy of gold jewelry throughout time, one thing remains constant: it will always remain popular among those seeking something beautiful yet durable enough to last forever—a reminder of life’s most precious moments.
Persimmon is a delicious, golden yellow/orange red skinned fruit that are full of sweet flavor and packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Native of China and Japan, they were brought to the US in the 1880’s and are most available as 2 types: Hachiya and Fuyu. Hachiya: makes up about 90% of persimmon fruits and has an acorn shape. They are best eaten when they become soft and ripe. Fuyu: More popular in Japan, they are a little smaller and sweeter than their counterparts, and can be eaten in their hard or ripened state. They look like flattened tomatoes. Persimmon trees are easy to grow, but a little challenging to come by. American persimmon trees can easily grow in our area, and are frost resistant. This tree can be hard to bud, and the best way to assure optimal growth is to buy young trees at a nursery. They are versatile to a wide variety of soils, and are water, pest, and disease tolerant. It is best to plant them in the winter or early spring. Persimmons are chock-full of nutrients, including Vitamins A, B-complex, C, and Fiber. Low in Fat, these colorful yellow and orange fruits contain catechins and betulinic acid, which has been found to reduce inflammation and tumor growth. They also contain Zea-xanthin, a carotenoid which helps with eye health and can prevent macular degeneration. They also contain trace amounts of Vitamin K and copper, which helps with red blood cell growth. They are most widely available September through December in the US, and can be stored in the refrigerator once ripened. They can be eaten whole, or cut into quarters. They are quite versatile with a variety of recipes, and can be added or used in salads, cakes, muffins, cookies, breads, cereals, smoothies, jams, waffles, pancakes, puddings, and sherbets. Some of my favorite recipes include cubing Fuyu persimmons with grapes, pomegranate seeds, cubed apples, and sliced kiwifruit, and added to a kale salad. Another favorite of mine is a Cinnamon Persimmon Banana Smoothie. Mix eight ounces of almond or coconut milk, add a persimmon, banana, a teaspoon of honey, half teaspoon of cinnamon, and some kiwifruit if desired. Blend together and pour into a tall glass in the morning. This is a great way to jumpstart your day! Try something new and add Persimmon fruits to your palate! You just may find that they are quite tasty! Article Source by Dr. Chad Laurence
The lottery is a game of chance in which numbers are drawn to win prizes. It is a popular form of gambling, and it has become a significant source of revenue for state governments. It has also generated controversy, mainly over issues such as compulsive gambling and its regressive effects on lower-income groups. The term “lottery” is derived from the Dutch word lot, meaning “fate.” The casting of lots to decide fates and distribute wealth has a long record in human history. For example, the Old Testament instructed Moses to draw lots to divide land among Israel’s tribes. Similarly, Roman emperors used lots to give away slaves and property. In colonial America, lotteries became common and were often used to fund public works projects such as paving streets and building wharves. In modern times, a wide variety of lotteries are held in the United States and around the world. A lottery is a form of gambling in which participants purchase tickets for a drawing that will occur at some time in the future, and win prizes if their numbers match those drawn by a machine. Some of the most famous lotteries are the Powerball and Mega Millions, both of which offer enormous prize amounts. Many people buy tickets as a low-risk investment, with the possibility of winning millions of dollars for a small initial outlay. However, this strategy can cost more than it pays off if you play regularly. While the earliest lottery games were simple raffles, today’s state-sponsored lotteries are highly sophisticated and multifaceted. They employ a variety of strategies to lure players, including advertising and the introduction of new games. Lottery revenue typically expands dramatically shortly after a state’s lottery begins operations, then levels off and sometimes even declines. Lottery officials must therefore innovate to maintain and even increase revenues. In addition to attracting new participants, these innovations have the effect of separating lotteries from their roots in traditional gambling and increasing the odds of winning. Lottery advertising often emphasizes the possibility of a life-changing jackpot, and studies have shown that the likelihood of winning increases as ticket purchases increase. But the risk-to-reward ratio for the average lottery player is much less attractive than that of a diversified portfolio. Lottery tickets consume millions of dollars that could otherwise be invested in a savings account or 401(k) plan, and players contribute billions to government receipts that might otherwise have been spent on social services or education. Moreover, the reliance on the lottery as a source of revenue creates perverse incentives for state officials and legislators. In a classic case of piecemeal and incremental policy making, authority for lottery operations is decentralized and fragmented between state agencies, with little overall oversight. As a result, lottery policy is often influenced by specific interests and the political climate, rather than broader concerns about gambling or social welfare. This is why few, if any, states have a coherent lottery policy.
The 2012 New York AutoShow is coming and Hyundai is finishing the development of the new generation of the Santa Fe/ix45. Although we have seen naked at the end of January, today we bring you a new spy shots with cammo and details such as headlights, exterior mirrors, taillights or the dual exhaust. The 2013 Santa Fe includes the “Hyundai’s Fluidic Design” with a hexagonal chromed grille and LED headlights. The new korean automaker CUV will also feature a strong side character line and attractively designed rear-end with LED taillights and dual exhaust chromed pipe. The current model is offered with two petrol engines, a 2.4-liter gasoline engine with 174 hp and 3.5 V6 with 276 hp, and in Europe and South Korea, Hyundai offer the CRDi diesel “R-Engine” with 197 hp. For the new model, Hyundai will offer more power in out of a couple of four cylinder engines, like the gasoline direct injection turbocharged (T-GDi) 2.0 engine, delivering 274 hp, or the new CRDi diesel Euro 6 R-2.0 engine, with 150 hp.
Excellent time to invest in an affordable corner building lot zoned R2 for only $55K, allowing for multi-residential development, in the charming town of Little Current on Manitoulin Island (Nemi). Located in a newer subdivision close to all town amenities, including Tim Hortons, a brewery, and the police station, this lot offers convenience and accessibility. Municipal services, including water and sewer, are already available to the lot line, saving you time and money on installation. With year-round maintenance of municipal roads, access is never an issue. This corner lot is one of the few remaining in the subdivision, nestled in a nice neighborhood, making it an ideal place to live or invest. Buyers are encouraged to conduct their due diligence for their intended use. Don't miss out on this opportunity - book a showing today!"' Possible to built 2 semis or Single Detached Best Location For Future Property! Build Your Dream Home In Existing Community! Larger Lot For Your Imagination To Make It Reality! 62 Feet By 114 Feet. Please Allow At Least 48 Hours Irrevocable For All Offers. Closing Very Flexible, Buyers To Very All Infomation About Taxes, Building And Other Services Availablity! Vacant land in prime Roseland location within Tuck/Nelson school district. Shares lot line with property for sale at 309 Pomona Ave. Non Buildable Lot.' Calling all parents and grandparents! This move-in-ready cottage is situated directly across from the playground, beach and swimming pool. A well designed layout allows for an open concept living/dining, with sliding doors out to your deck. Speaking of your deck, this cottage is being sold with a gazebo and small outdoor dining set, perfect to enjoy the afternoons and evenings on your South Western facing deck. Enjoy ample storage in both the kitchen and bedrooms. With all existing furnishings, appliances, heat/A/C, 4 year mechanical warranty included; just bring your suitcase and you're ready to enjoy your Summers on Lake Seymour Vacant building lot on the outskirts of Combermere in the beautiful Madawaska Valley. Enjoy four season activities close to trails and several access points to the Madawaska River. Where you can enjoy endless boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. A building permit can be obtained for this property through the Municipality. Permission has also been given to place a trailer on the property if you want to start enjoying this great spot while you make future plans. Buyers are encouraged to do their own due diligence with the locally Municipality.' Discover your own piece of paradise! Serenely situated among the trees, this property within the heart of the Northumberland Forest is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Whether you relish hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, four-wheeling, or snowmobiling, you'll revel in the breathtaking trails that wind through the property, seamlessly connecting to the extensive network of trails and crown land in the Northumberland Forest, including the Beagle Club Trailhead. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance, surrounded by a harmonious blend of hardwood and softwood trees, abundant wildlife, and experience the uplifting release of stress. Seize this opportunity to make it yours today! A pre-loved 2012 Northlander Oak with a covered porch is the ideal starter cottage for your family here at Cherry Beach Resort! This 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom cottage is located on a very quiet, cul-de-sac overlooking the beautiful marsh and making it a great space for children to enjoy playing outdoors. Plus you can see the beach from the large deck, meaning it is only a few minute's walk until you can jump into the lake!' This property is just over 3 acres and is zone Environmentally Protected (EP) which is a highly regulated zone. Buyer to do their own due deligence. There is no access currently. No form of temporary dwelling (home) is permitted in this zone, including: trailers, tents or mobile homes. Lot Irreg. 623.39 ft x 435.22 ft x 3.10 ft x 10.32 ft x 13.72 ft x 37.36 ft x 44.18 ft x 42.81 ft x 51.29 ft x 33.49 ft x 26.47 ft x 33.81 ft x 66.52 ft x 22.03 ft x 120.46 ft x 40.62 ft x 37.44 ft x 94.57 ft x 82.29 ft x 39.95 ft x 94.10 ft x 110.16 ft x 55.92 ft x 6.87 ft #103 - 120 Matheson Blvd. E. Mississauga, Ontario, L4Z 1X1 Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB); All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) or information provider(s) shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless. Copyright ©2021 All rights reserved.
Extraordinary Attorney Woo Izle If you’re searching for an extraordinary attorney, look no further than Attorney Woo. With years of experience and a track record of success, Attorney Woo is a true legal powerhouse. Whether you’re facing a complex criminal case or need assistance with a personal injury claim, Attorney Woo has the knowledge and expertise to navigate even the most challenging legal matters. One of the remarkable aspects of Attorney Woo’s practice is their ability to provide personalized attention to each client. They understand that every case is unique and requires an individualized approach. From the initial consultation to the final resolution, Attorney Woo will be by your side, offering expert guidance and support. Attorney Woo’s dedication to achieving exceptional results sets them apart from other attorneys in the field. Their commitment to their clients’ well-being and their relentless pursuit of justice have earned them a reputation as one of the top attorneys in their area. When it comes to finding an attorney who goes above and beyond, Attorney Woo stands out from the crowd. With their extensive knowledge, unwavering determination, and unparalleled level of service, they are truly extraordinary. Don’t settle for anything less when it comes to your legal representation – choose Attorney Woo for all your legal needs. Finding the Right Attorney The right attorney can make all the difference in your legal journey. Finding someone who is experienced, knowledgeable, and dedicated to your case is crucial for achieving a successful outcome. Let’s delve into the importance of finding the right attorney: - Expertise and Specialization: Attorneys specialize in different areas of law, such as criminal defense, personal injury, or family law. By choosing an attorney who specializes in your specific legal matter, you benefit from their deep understanding of the intricacies and nuances related to your case. They have likely handled similar cases before and can provide tailored advice and strategies. - Knowledge of Legal Procedures: Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with its complexities. A skilled attorney understands the procedures, paperwork requirements, deadlines, and potential pitfalls involved in your case. Their knowledge allows them to guide you through each step efficiently, ensuring that you meet all necessary requirements within specified timeframes. - Building a Strong Case: The right attorney knows how to build a strong case on your behalf. They will thoroughly investigate the facts surrounding your situation, gather evidence, interview witnesses if needed, and analyze any applicable laws or precedents that may impact your case’s success. With their expertise, they can develop persuasive arguments that support your position. - Negotiation Skills: Many legal disputes are resolved through negotiation rather than going to trial. A skilled attorney possesses excellent negotiation skills honed through years of experience advocating for their clients’ best interests during settlement discussions or mediation sessions. They know how to leverage strengths in your case while mitigating weaknesses to achieve favorable outcomes. - Courtroom Representation: If your case does go to trial, having an attorney with courtroom experience by your side is invaluable. They are well-versed in courtroom procedures and rules of evidence while being able to present compelling arguments before judges and juries effectively. Finding the right attorney requires careful research and consideration based on factors like their track record, reputation, and compatibility with your needs. Remember, this decision could have a significant impact on the outcome of your legal matter.
Are you a YouTuber looking for the best laptop to enhance your content creation? Well, look no further! We’ve got you covered with our expert recommendations on the top laptops specifically tailored for YouTubers. Whether you’re into vlogging, editing videos, or live streaming, having the right laptop can make all the difference in boosting your productivity and delivering high-quality content to your audience. Key Factors To Consider When it comes to choosing a laptop for YouTubers, there are several key factors that should be taken into consideration. As we delve into this topic, let’s explore some of the most important aspects to keep in mind: - Processing Power: One of the top priorities for YouTubers is having a laptop with sufficient processing power. Video editing and rendering can be resource-intensive tasks, so opting for a laptop with a powerful processor, such as an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7, is essential. This will ensure smooth multitasking and seamless editing experiences. - RAM and Storage: Another crucial factor is the amount of RAM and storage capacity available on the laptop. Aim for at least 8GB or preferably 16GB of RAM to handle video editing software efficiently. Additionally, consider laptops with SSD storage instead of traditional hard drives as they offer faster read/write speeds, enabling quicker file transfers and smoother performance. - Graphics Capability: As YouTubers often work with high-resolution videos and graphics-heavy content, having a dedicated graphics card can significantly enhance their productivity. Look for laptops equipped with NVIDIA GeForce GTX or RTX series GPUs for optimal video rendering capabilities. - Display Quality: Since visual clarity is paramount in video editing, investing in a laptop with a high-quality display is crucial. Opt for laptops with IPS panels that provide accurate color reproduction and wide viewing angles. A screen resolution of at least 1080p (Full HD) is recommended to ensure crisp visuals during the editing process. - Portability: As content creators frequently find themselves on-the-go, portability becomes an important consideration when choosing a laptop. Look for lightweight options that strike a balance between power and mobility without compromising too much on performance. - Battery Life: While recording videos or working on projects outside the comfort of your workspace, having good battery life becomes essential.. Look for laptops that offer long-lasting battery backups to ensure uninterrupted creativity. Best Laptops for YouTubers Here are some of the best laptops for youtubers who need top-notch video editing capabilities: - MacBook Pro (16-inch): With its impressive processing power, stunning Retina display, and ample storage capacity, the MacBook Pro is a favorite among many professional YouTubers. Its high-performance processors and dedicated graphics allow for smooth video editing and rendering even for resource-intensive projects. - Dell XPS 15: This laptop offers a perfect balance between portability and performance. It boasts a stunning display with minimal bezels, making it ideal for precise video editing tasks. The XPS 15’s powerful components provide seamless multitasking capabilities while ensuring fast rendering times. - ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo: If you’re looking for something unique, the ZenBook Pro Duo might be just what you need. It features a secondary touchscreen display above the keyboard that allows for enhanced workflow efficiency. With its powerful hardware configuration and innovative design, this laptop excels in handling demanding video editing tasks. - HP Spectre x360: Known for its sleek design and versatility, the Spectre x360 packs quite a punch when it comes to video editing capabilities. Its high-resolution display combined with robust processing power ensures smooth playback while working on your videos. - Razer Blade 15 Studio Edition: Designed specifically for creative professionals, including YouTubers, the Razer Blade 15 Studio Edition is equipped with an incredibly fast processor and NVIDIA Quadro RTX graphics card that deliver exceptional performance during intense video editing sessions. Remember that these laptops offer different configurations at various price points, so choose one that fits your budget while meeting your specific requirements as a YouTuber focused on video production.
— Update on August 11 @ 9:58am Police charged three people with firing a Classic Army Airsoft air weapon beyond the premises of Grantavon House in Brayford Wharf East. Kevin Douglas Scheepers (22), of Charles Street West, Lincoln, Richard Dean Whiston (22), of Smith Street, Lincoln and Jared Bradley White (18), of West Parade, Lincoln, have all been charged with the offence. They have been released on police bail to appear at Lincoln Magistrates Court on August 27. — Original on July 8 @ 3:19pm Three young local men were arrested on Thursday, July 8, for possession of firearms with intent to cause fear of violence. The men, two aged 22, and one 18, were shooting at swans from a window/balcony towards the Brayford Pool from Grantavon House, on Brayford Wharf East. The incident came to police notice at about 8:50pm, after a member of the public reported the shootings. An armed response team was deployed and the three men were arrested under section 16 of the Firearms Act. Two weapons, believed to be BB type guns, were seized. The men were interviewed and released on bail to return to the Lincoln police station at a later date.
Kara’s Flowers was a band that originated in LA, California back in 1994. The group was formed by 4 high school friends: Adam Levine, Jesse Carmichael, drummer Ryan Dusick, and bassist Mickey Madden. After releasing their album ‘’The Fourth World’’ in 1997 they reached little to no response and decided to drop the band and go their separate ways. Wait, it must be confusing that we are starting a text about Maroon 5 with history about some unknown band from the 90s. Well, as it turns out, now mega-popular band started as Kara’s Flowers. After their reunion in 2001, they decided to change their name to Maroon 5 and add a new guitarist, James Valentine. The rest of their history is much better known and probably needs no further explanation. So, if you want to find out how an anonymous band from LA managed to get from filthy poor to dirty rich, stick with us because we are going to list all Maroon 5 members ranked from richest to poorest. Adam Levine – $160 Million This guy probably needs no special introduction, he is by far the most popular member of the group. That naturally means that he is the one with the most dough laying around in his bank account. He is reportedly worth more than $160 million. It is probably really hard to wrap your mind around that kind of money. A good portion of his income comes from the royalties that the band earns, however, Adam has another golden goose. In 2011, Adam was invited to be a judge on the hit reality TV show ‘’The Voice’’. He accepted the invitation and we can’t call it poor judgment because he was getting paid $12 million for each season. He left ‘’The Voice’’ in 2019, so we will leave it up to you to do the math. Mickey Madden – $45 Million Surprisingly, the second one on our list considering net worth is a bassist. (Note that this is not a list about who is better with women in the band.) A founding father of our favorite boy band – Mickey Madden of course. Considering that the band has topped the Billboard 200 charts numerous times and won a few Grammys along the way and Mickey was there the whole time it comes as no surprise that he is the second on our net worth list. James Valentine – $40 Million As you might have guessed, lead guitarists make quite a lot of money too. Over the years he has scored over $40 million. (This makes me regret skipping my guitar lessons as a kid.) Not that any of this money wasn’t well deserved. James Valentine joined the band in 2001 and has written some of their greatest hits. To name a few; ‘’Can’t Stop’’, ‘’The Way I Was’’ and of course ‘’This Love’’. Sam Farrar – $8 Million The next one on our list is Sam Farrar. He has been added to the group officially in 2016, but he has collaborated with the band way back when they were known as Kara’s Flowers. So, you can’t really call him a fresh addition. Nonetheless, since he joined the band, Sam has managed to amass around $8 million. It might seem like nothing compared to Adam’s earnings, but let’s not forget that we are talking about six figures here. Jesse Carmichael – $6 Million Moving further away on our ranked list we come to the instrumentalist of the Maroon 5, Jesse Carmichael. Carmichael is one of the founders of our favorite boy band. He is still a member to this day except for his short leave of absence for two years back in 2012. Coming short of $2 million behind Sam Farrar he has an estimated net worth of around $6 million. However, we can expect this number to grow considering that besides his role in the band he is also working on personal projects such as ‘’Circuit Jerks’’. Matt Flynn – $4 Million In 2004, Maroon 5 hired a touring member by the name of Matt Flynn. A couple of years later, when their leading drummer Ryan Dusick couldn’t continue touring with the band due to his chronic nerve damage, Matt was the one suited best to fill the position. Since then he has acquired a fortune just shy of $4 million. You know what they say, one man’s loss, is another man’s gain. (Too much?) PJ Morton – $2 Million Here we come to the second keyboardist of the Maroon 5, PJ Morton. He became a part of the band in 2012 when his friend and also a musical director of the Maroon 5, Adam Blackstone asked him to go to an audition for the part of the backing vocalist and a keyboardist. Since then, he has been working with the band to this day which allowed him to net over $2 million.
In this episode, I talk about how to go about setting your hourly rate, what considerations I made when setting mine and why you shouldn’t let potential clients put you, your rates or your work down! In this episode I cover: - Working how much you need to earn - Deciding how much you want to earn - Settling on an hourly rate that is both achievable and enough for you & your lifestyle - Not letting clients put you down - Sticking to your rates (as the right clients will pay them!) Setting Your Hourly Rate & Sticking To It! Hello, and welcome to episode six of the journey to be a podcast. I’m your host, Mark Smith, aka the male VA. And in this episode, I’m going to be talking to youabout how to set your rates and stick to them. You need to know your worth people. So I’m going to come straight out the gate and say there’s no right or wrong answer to this. One thing I would urge you to consider though, is, how much you need to earn versus how much you would like to earn and settle on a figure initially, that will give you enough to pay the bills with a view to potentially moving your rates up to your desired figure later on. And you can go about this a few ways. The way that I chose to do it was to look at my previous salary. So I left a senior management position at a very large organisation, and was on in and around 50,000 pounds. And so that is somewhere between 25 and 30 pounds an hour. Obviously, everyone’s different, and everyone has different outgoings and how much they need to earn just to pay the bills. But obviously, I’ve been working for 17 years, and my adult my outgoings up considerably over the years, I’ve also got four children and have a house to run, etc. So all of those were factors that I had to consider. And it wasn’t that I just plucked to figure out the air, I did actually go through like, what do I need to learn how many hours a week do I want to work, I left a role that was paying in and around 50,000, like I said, and I was doing 35 hours a week. That’s what I was contracted to do. But when I decided to become a full-time business owner, I actually wanted to reduce my hours a little bit. So how would I make up for that difference? Do I increase my hourly rate just to say, just so that I can earn the same amount of money? Or do I take a slightly less overall salary, or guess or income to kind of facilitate the more flexible lifestyle that I want? And that they’re questions that you also need to ask yourself. So the first thing I did really was looking at, say reducing my working hours to 30 hours a week. And if I were to times that by 25, that would give me 750 pounds a week. And 750 over the course of a year. Bearing in mind, I haven’t taken out any time for holidays is 39,000 pounds, so long way off what I was earning originally. And so when I looked at that, I thought I could just work 35 hours a week, but then where am I going to get the flexibility that I desired. And that’s the whole reason that I started a business. So why I opted for was to charge 30 pounds an hour, and still would class myself in that capacity at 30 hours a week rather than at 35. And that would give me 900 pounds a week in income for my clients. Over the course of the year 52 weeks, that would give me 46,800, which is pretty close to what I was earning before. Obviously, there’s going weeks where you’re unwell or you unable to work. And so you don’t get paid for those that just got me as close as I could get to my salary before factoring in all of those things. And it was something that I would comfortable with when I looked at my total outgoings versus what the income would be at those rates. And my long term plan and yours probably should be to is to actually try and get some sort of passive income. So we’ll talk about that a lot later on in future episodes, but I don’t want to just be trading hours for money for the rest of my life. The plan is to really build an audience to get some other courses training workshop, something out there that will continue to sell over and over again. And that’s just an aspiration, really, I’m still quite early in my journey. But that is something that I have already thought about. And he’s kind of on one of my Trello boards is a thing to look into. And so if you’re concerned, you’re coming from a high paid job, or you have aspirations to 100,000 pounds a year, then you just need to consider that trading your hours, or your time for money may not be the best way to do that. If you are looking to earn 100,000 pounds a year, for instance, and you were just trading your time for money, then you’d be looking at somewhere around 65 pounds an hour for a 30 hour week, which is actually doable in certain fields. As a VA, probably not, if I really pushed it, I could probably get to 35-40 pounds an hour and maybe 50 To be honest, as a WordPress developer, but the services that I am offering don’t wouldn’t really stretch to those sorts of numbers. So you’ve got to be realistic as well, I think 30 pounds, maybe 35 is probably the highest you can charge as a VIP, really, there are some surveys around actually that go into they’ve surveyed, I think a couple of thousand virtual assistants in the UK. And the average is somewhere between 20 and 30 pounds an hour. So you know is in and around the right numbers that we’re talking about here. One other thing to consider is the competition. And you should know your worth, and you charge what you believe you’re worth. And also enough to pay the bills, of course, but it’s going to be more difficult to go up against someone charging 20 pounds an hour, especially for basic admin, if your virtual system then is someone charging 1520 pounds. And there are lots of people with into for 10 or 15 pounds an hour, I actually got into a bit of bother in a Facebook group fairly recently where I challenged someone who charged very little, in fact, I think they ran a VIP agency or something and paid staff less than 10 pounds an hour and then charged client 15, which is great for a business model. But I would argue that that’s not really being a virtual assistant, an agency anyway, the point was that actually by charging 1015 pounds an hour, you really do value in the industry. And I think on the whole the virtual assistant community in all the Facebook groups I’ve been a part of in the paid membership group, I’m a part of that really, really supportive and come together, they’re really good and they help each other out. And I think that’s really good. And by charging 15 pounds an hour, you’re essentially undercutting a lot of the industry, probably 90% of the industry is charging more than 20 pounds or more. So going low is difficult. And I get the need to pay the bills and to earn more than you were previously earning. So if you’re leaving a job where you as an admin assistant, for instance, on something like 16,000 pounds a year, even 18 20,000 pounds a year, that is only 1112 pounds an hour, most definitely talk about in front of me, but I’m pretty sure that’s what it was. And so even by charging 15 pounds an hour, you’ll get given yourself a considerable pay rise. But just know that the lower you start your hourly rate, the harder it is to get it up to anywhere near the industry average. So you just need to bear that in mind as well. So the final thing I just want to say about this is, if you go into high, I think it’s an awful lot easier to reduce to a tourist an accepted market rate. If you start at 15 pounds an hour, it’s very difficult to get to 25 without losing some customers or at least patients and customers off. Whereas if you were to start 30 pounds, for instance, you could gradually come down to 25. I’m not saying you should, what I’m saying is if you can’t find clients at 30 pounds, and price definitely is the issue. And you could come down feasibly to 25 pounds an hour. And actually, that would be an awful lot easier. Of course, bank going from, say 15 all the way up to 25. So there are two ways to go about, I’d rather go in high. And if people tell me I’m too expensive, then I know that’s an issue. If I go in low, nobody’s going to tell me that actually, they think I’m worth more. Or, please, I know you’re only trying to charge me 15 pounds an hour, but when you invoice me do it for 20, please, that’s fine, honestly, it’s just not going to happen, is it? So let’s be realistic. So once you’ve got your number settled on, and I would advise somewhere in and around 25 pounds, if you’re starting out, it is absolutely imperative that you stick to your pricing. So if you do go in at 25 pounds, and you’re told you too expensive. That’s nonsense. The average for the industry, as I said is the example I gave previously was at 30 pounds, where you can find quite a few VA that are less than 30 pounds an hour. And that’s why I charge it because my services are slightly different. So but at 25 pounds, there’s no one that should really be telling you, you’re too expensive. Because it’s not just a case of paying you 25 pounds an hour is it? It’s you’ve got to pay your insurances. If you’re offering bookkeeping services, you’re having to pay an Annual Registration to HMRC to be monitored for tax and money laundering. There are all sorts with your insurances. Your Home Office costs the additional heating electricity using by working from home from your home office, then there’s just other factors at play here. So it’s not like you’re taking home the 25 pounds or whatever it is you’re charging, nevermind the tax, the National Insurance and all of those things you’re liable for as well. So if anybody does tell you that 25 pounds too expensive Old Firm that potentially not the customers that you want Anyway, why do you want to work with clients that are constantly trying to barter your time down when really you know you’re worth you know how much you need to live. And you also know that there are thousands of other VI’s finding clients at 25 pounds an hour, so stick to your guns, and don’t be made to feel like you’re more expensive, because it’s only admin. Some of the things you hear on some of the Facebook forums and stuff is ridiculous stories of clients putting vas down saying it’s only admin work, I don’t understand why you’re charging so much, etc, etc. It’s like, if it’s that easy, just employ someone. You can employ someone an awful lot cheaper than you can have a VA for, if you can get someone who has got our skills, and that’s where the problem lies. So they do need us sometimes they just like to try their luck! Okay, if you want to follow what I’m doing, you can get me on pretty much every social media channel and I am @themaleva. So that’s Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, so you can find me there or if you want to drop me an email, give me some ideas for future content. Or if you want to be a guest on the show, you can email me at [email protected]. Also, you can check out the website themaleva.co.uk where you can see show notes, look at all the previous episodes and read some of the content I’ve got on the blog, which is useful for business owners, MBAs alike thanks again for listening. I’ll see you next time.
The hugely-popular ‘Serial Killer Next Door’ talk is back in Manchester this Halloween Emma Kenny - one of the UK’s most notable Psychological Therapists and Crime commentators - will lead audiences into the minds of murderers. Ever wondered what goes on inside the head of a serial killer? Well, if you’re keen enough to find out the answer to that question and you’re looking for a particularly-chilling way to spend your Halloween, then the hugely-popular Serial Killer Next Door talk is returning to Manchester next month, with expert Emma Kenny – one of the UK’s most notable Psychological Therapists and Crime commentators – leading audiences into the minds of murderers. Emma specialises in victimology, and is mostly-known for presenting crime shows including Britain’s Darkest Taboos, Lady Killers, and The Killer in My Family. She will take audiences on a journey looking at what ingredients of possibility lead to body counts by killers including Ted Bundy, John Wayne Gacy, Jeffrey Dahmer, and John Paul Knowles, attempting to answer the questions – what creates a serial killer? Could anything have prevented their potential being activated? Or were they simply born to kill? How, and why do they select their victim? Is there anything anyone can do to protect themselves from such a sinister predator? Emma will use her extensive experience of analysing some of most heinous crimes both here in the UK and the US to explore with audiences just what makes a killer, and why some people can be born into seemingly normal families, brought up without fear or abuse, and yet still choose a murderous path. It’s ultimately fascinating but not for the faint-hearted. While it’s certainly not how everyone would choose to spend the spookiest night of the year, tickets for previous talks in Manchester have flown off the shelves and are set to do the same when The Serial Killer Next Door arrives at the Stoller Hall. The Serial Killer Next Door by Emma Kenny will take place at the Stoller Hall on Sunday 31 October 2021 at 7:30pm, with ticket prices ranging from £12 – £22. Grab yours here. Featured Image – Serial Killer Next Door
I've gotten several questions asking questions not only about my 90 Day Intensive Online Business Builder Mentoring Program, but also about my journey to become healthy and, while I've answered them individually, I thought you may have some of the same questions. The personal question most asked is "What inspired [me] to do it [get healthy] now?" And the answer, quite frankly, is that I ran out of excuses as to why I couldn't do it "now". There was a time when I couldn't discuss my weight without crying and then I realized it. I have a process for everything in my business and there's no reason getting healthy couldn't be the same. So I hired an expert trainer and never looked back! If you're interested in following my personal journey, you can read all about it on my personal blog here. And now for all those other questions (answers below): I'm not sure I have the time to do the Program. - I'm a VA [virtual assistant], is this Program a good fit for me? - I don't have hundreds of dollars a month (yet) to spend running my business, is it possible to build a business for less than that? - Is the Mentoring Program tax deductible? - I feel like I'm in overwhelm with all the information I have purchased or found in other places, plus the teleseminars I keep attending. When does a person just stop gathering? - What happens if I miss a class? - You mentioned that there are "assignments". Do I have to do them all? - Will we be able to network with other group members and share experiences? - I own a "brick and mortar" business and don't have an online presence. Is this Program for me? - I have a website, but I'm not getting any sign-ups to my list. Will you show me how to get consistent sign-ups? - I currently have a product for sale, but no one is buying it. Can you help me with that? Do you think this program is too basic for me? Questions with answers: Q. I'm not sure I have the time to do the Program. A. If you're not implementing quickly now and don't think you can find the time, you have to ask yourself if owning a successful business is what you really want — whether now or later, you will need to invest time to build your business. If not "now", "when"? There is no magic pill. Q. I'm a VA [virtual assistant], is this Program a good fit for me? A. Absolutely! The Program is perfect for VAs for two reasons: 1/ You are an "online business owner", you're virtual. The techniques and strategies in this class are the same ones you should be using to grow your own business and 2/ You can use the same strategies on your clients' businesses making you even more valuable to them as you expand your list of services (and clients!). VAs who know these strategies are in high demand. Q. I don't have hundreds of dollars a month (yet) to spend running my business, is it possible to build a business for less than that? A. Yes, we'll cover tools and resources which result in you spending as little as possible while still preparing your business for success. It's important to build a strong foundation which allows for expansion and we'll discuss different options for doing so, without breaking the bank. Q. Is the Mentoring Program tax deductible? A. The cost of this Program may be tax deductible when taken for business purposes. You should always double check with your tax preparer. Q. I feel like I'm in overwhelm with all the information I have purchased or found in other places, plus the teleseminars I keep attending. When does a person just stop gathering? A. Honestly, NOW is the time to stop gathering and start or speed up your implementation! You could gather for the next 20 years and still learn things. If you REALLY want to build your business into something which gives you cash flow and freedom, now is the time. Knowledge without implementation is wasted knowledge — that's why this Program is SO results and implementation-focused. Q. What happens if I miss a class? A. All the classes will be recorded and the audio link and webinar presentations will be available within 24 hours for you to listen online or download and review on your schedule (CDs will also be sent out so you can listen wherever best suits you). All classes are also transcribed for your convenience. Q. You mentioned that there are "assignments". Do I have to do them all? A. I've developed the assignments to ensure you implement quickly. The most important part of building your business is to "get things done". Completing the assignments will have a direct impact on how quickly your business grows — remember, I'm teaching you how to build a business for the long term. Q. I want to learn how to create and sell information products. Will the Program cover that? A. Absolutely! As you know, I'm all about leveraging time and effort and creating information products is one of the best ways to do that. We'll go into step-by-step detail on how to create a product and, if you complete your assignments, you'll have a product ready which you can either sell or offer as a f'ree giveaway by the end of the program – even if you don't have a website. Q. Will we be able to network with other group members and share experiences? A. Absolutely! The Program is designed for you to interact with everyone and to share information via our private email discussion group. I will also be active in the forum to provide even more coaching and answer questions (in addition to our regularly-scheduled Q&A calls). Q. I own a "brick and mortar" business and don't have an online presence. Is this Program for me? A. Yes. Whether you own an "online" or "offline" business, the best combination for long lasting success is to combine strategies from both. If you are currently "offline", you will learn how to create an online presence which allows you to make money passively while drawing customers from all over, as opposed to just your local area. Online businesses will learn how to harness the power of offline strategies to ensure a constant flow of visitors. Q. I have a website, but I'm not getting any sign-ups to my list. Will you show me how to get consistent sign-ups? A. Yes. In addition to teaching you how to optimize your site for better conversions (more sign-ups), you'll receive a bonus (unadvertised) list of over 100 ways to grow your list and convert visitors. Q. I currently have a product for sale, but no one is buying it. Can you help me with that? A. Absolutely. It doesn't do you much good to have a product which no one is buying. In addition to reviewing how to write copy (there is a method behind the madness) and properly position your product (including price points), I'll be critiquing specific marketing pieces (submitted by members) in the Program. Q. Do you think this program is too basic for me? A. If you're making anything less than 6 figures in your business or find yourself flitting from program to program and strategy to strategy like a butterfly as you fall deeper into overwhelm, this program is not too basic for you. We'll be creating a strong foundation with systems and processes designed to get you more clients quickly and for the long term. This Program is implementation and results-focused. We're not going to discuss a lot of theories and "what to dos" – we will be discussing real world, proven techniques which work AND HOW to implement them immediately in low cost, high impact ways. If you're ready to simplify your online marketing, implement and build your successful business, please click here to reserve your spot before the Early Bird $500 Savings expires on September 22nd! If you have additional questions, please send them to me at [email protected] and I'll get back to you right away. In full and unwavering support of you and your dreams, The Automatic Business Coach ™ & Mentor P.S. Investing in my trainer gives me somewhere to be, someone to support me and someone to give me specific strategies — all resulting in a MUCH healthier (and smaller) me! You can trust me to give you the same ongoing support and specifics for your business through my 90 Day Intensive. . .without the pain! GUARANTEED!
It’s a new week and we’re about to flood you with allll things new. If you’re like us, you’re absolutely in love with the travel column and you’ll be sorry to hear that it will be temporarily discontinued. However, in its place, there are two fresh new columns — Satirical and Mystical Myths — that will absolutely knock your socks off. Older readers will remember our “Personality of The Week” column and if you’ve missed it, you’re in luck because there will be new instalments for your reading pleasure starting today. Lest I forget, our bcs are taking a new look starting this week and we really hope you’ll keep an eye out for our new opinion pieces. MediVoice is all about breathing fresh air into your reading experience in these times. Stay with us!
Tommy Holland and The Rising Sun band recreate some of Elvis’ most dynamic performances. With his impeccable attention to detail Tommy faithfully recreates the sound, the look, and the feel of Elvis. Rising Sun Events presents this two-part show Elvis: As It Was. The Movie years: Featuring smash hits such as Return To Sender, G.I. Blues, Viva Las Vegas and many more from the Hollywood screen. Re-live all the rousing fun, romance and thrills that these movies brought to millions of fans, a jumpin’ jackpot of melody, you’ll be out of your seats singing and dancing in the aisles from the very start. The Vegas Years: Elvis electrified millions both in Las Vegas and in theatres with the concert films That’s The Way It Is and Elvis On Tour. Tommy revisits the music that moved the world the way you remembered. Suspicious Minds, The Wonder of You, and Burning Love are just some of the songs that the spectacular 70’s shows were renowned for and remain favourites today. We guarantee there is something for everyone in this sensational production. Dates & Times Derby Hall @ The Met £19.50 (inc fees) Duration: 2 hours (inc interval) Covid Safety at The Met This will be a full-capacity event with a non-socially distanced audience; we will however still be utilising many Covid safety measures for your safety and the safety of our staff.
Do you want to learn about direct marketing from the best in the world? listen to Drayton Bird on this week’s show Direct Marketing by Drayton Bird “Drayton Bird knows more about direct marketing than anyone in the world.” – David Ogilvy, founder of Ogilvy & Mather One of the world’s greatest advertising men, David Ogilvy thought Drayton knew more about direct marketing than anyone in the world. In this podcast, Drayton shares insights about direct marketing, advertising and copywriting. What can you learn from that insight? What are the deadly sins that small businesses are making in their copywriting? The answer is the same as large businesses. Those sins can be summed up in THREE words… Failure to Study Even copywriters are guilty. Drayton shared a story about a group of UK copywriters. How many of them had read what Drayton considers to be the single most important book on copywriting and marketing – Claude Hopkins Scientific Advertising. Just 10% of those copywriters had. Drayton says the overwhelming number of people in marketing know the ‘square root of sod all’. Hopkins’ book was originally published in 1923. Everything that Drayton writes now, is based on the principles that Hopkins established in this book. Ogilvy said nobody should have anything to do with advertising until they have read this book at least SEVEN times. Read the book and it will make your marketing better. What makes a good copywriter? Drayton says he was influenced by David Ogilvy, even before he met him. These are important if you want to be a copywriter (according to David Ogilvy)… - Obsessive curiosity – be very curious about things. Do you love to learn about new things? Do you get fascinated by new clients’ businesses? - Skill at the art of nit picking - High standards of personal ethics – good copywriters are big people without pettiness. - Guts under pressure, resilience in defeat. – sometimes people don’t respond, when you get turned down, it is depressing, so be persistent. - Brilliant brains, not safe plodders – ordinary people are not good at writing copy. Most good copywriters tend to be a little odd in some way other. - A capacity for hard work and midnight oil. - Charisma, charm and persuasiveness. Ogilvy had a way of changing the subject without warning. The secret of success in advertising was ‘charm’. - A streak of unorthodoxy. Look at things from a different angle to other people. - The courage to make tough decisions. - Inspiring enthusiasts – got to be able to motivate. Inspire people to follow and trust you. - A sense of humour. 44% of Britain don’t like their jobs! - A burning desire to take money off people. Get people to buy stuff. Drayton’s book Commonsense Direct Marketing – note the testimonial on the fly – “Read it and re-read it, it contains the knowledge of a lifetime” David Ogilvy It all started because Drayton could not find a simple definition of direct marketing. Drayton has a revised version of his 1980s book “How to Write a Sales Letter that Sells” https://www.amazon.co.uk/Write-Sales-Letters-that-Sell/dp/0749438762 Direct Marketing Definition “Any communication that goes out to people directly, or if they respond to directly.” Therefore, everything on the internet is all direct marketing. Which 2 Other Books Does Drayton Recommend? John Caples “Tested Advertising Methods” – https://www.amazon.com/Advertising-Methods-Prentice-Business-Classics/dp/0130957011 Caples created systems for testing. He tested everything to find out what did and didn’t work. Are you happy to throw money at advertising without knowing will it work? David Ogilvy – Ogilvy on Advertising https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ogilvy-Advertising-David/dp/1853756156/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_14_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=DKAMF9QE4RD5YBWZ8QRP Rosser Reeves – Reality in Advertising https://www.amazon.co.uk/Reality-Advertising-Rosser-Reeves/dp/098269413X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1520768942&sr=1-1&keywords=rosser+reeves Reeves invented the unique sales proposition. Good enough is good enough We always think we can improve things. It is difficult to know when to stop. It is a matter of judgment. You must think how good can I get it in the amount of time? Testing eliminates useless discussion Napoleon said, “there is somebody who knows more than anybody and that is everybody”. Drayton’s book Commonsense Direct Marketing has a couple of chapters devoted to testing. Here’s a very small snippet… Why Do Most Adverts Fail? Because people haven’t studied what works and what doesn’t. They have totally failed to study. Study what works with headlines, layouts and pictures. The big mistake, is your client saying “I like that”. But they aren’t the customer. Copywriting – Long copy and short copy The length of the copy you produce AS A RULE relates to the difficulty of selling whatever you wish to sell. Soft drink versus expensive. Expensive, odds are you need log copy. If you ask somebody to ACT NOW, then the odds are you need long copy. If the call to action is to go into a store, where the complete selling job will be done, then you may not require long copy. Use your common sense. Do you need to explain what your service/product is all about? McGraw Hill discover that on average the best advertisement repeated the proposition 3 times. The most successful advertisements do a complete selling job. A complete selling job means: - You have to get people’s attention; - By offering something they dearly would like to have - And that they can have easily - Or, telling them that they can avoid something deeply unpleasant - And do so easily - Then go into an explanation of why this is important - then prove why it is important - And answer THE ONE QUESTION EVERYBODY ASKS, but 95% of adverts, landing pages, emails ignore - Why should I choose you? - So, explain at the top of your website WHY they should choose you – rather than having some “batty” slogan. - THEN answer 2 other questions - What do you do that nobody else can do? - What do you better than anybody else? If you haven’t answered these 3 questions already, do it soon! Drayton advises you come up with ALTERNATIVE answers to the 3 questions in bold above. Then test which one works best. Access Drayton’s 2 books based on 51 Helpful Marketing Ideas priced at $19.97 each. The Perfect Job Application Alex Busson wrote to Drayton. Here are the tips. - Alex sent a large letter, used different coloured crayons. It was impossible to ignore. - It had the element of surprise – it stood out above pretty much everything Drayton had recently received. - Alex flattered Drayton. - He told a story. About an event. With a before and after drama. Problem and solution based on Drayton’s book. - Alex went into great detail. He made an OFFER. - He said he had read the greats of advertising. - The Offer was in a separate envelope. - He sent examples of his work. Drayton offered him a job. This application exemplifies what marketing is all about. Apply the lessons. Find out more about Drayton Bird What will people say of Drayton - Fun to work with - Helpful to people
We understand that you need flexibility in these uncertain times. Please follow the link to our bookings site for our full cancellation policy. The Old Convent is the perfect location for events and pre-booked workshops. You can definitely hire our venue for team-building days, workshops or events. Let’s brainstorm and make it happen. Absolutely! We love to share our local knowledge. With a background in event planning this is my favourite part. Let’s chat! No, we are happy to provide spa towels, No, unfortunately, we are do not allow guest to bring pets. I love my fur babies also however our home is heritage listed and the needs of all our guests are important to us. Absolutely, we offer fast and free wifi for all our guests. We have two massive 75-inch TVs for you to chill and catch up on some serious vege out time. We have ample off-street parking including one undercover carport. Plenty of room for bridal cars or a stretch limo! Approx 4 spaces in the driveway with unlimited parking on the street at the front gate. Due to insurance purposes, it is your responsibility to notify us of any extra guests that are not listed on your booking. Our property is strictly for 8 guests maximum. Day visits are permitted with our knowledge and prior approval of all guests who will be visiting the property. Coffee is life and we have you covered! Your Nespresso machine is set up with a small number of pods, various coffee sachets and of course a selection of lovely teas. We also supply basic pantry staples such as s + p, tomato and bbq sauce, olive oil and cooking spray. You are welcome to place an online shopping order to be delivered to The Old Convent and dependant on timing, we will endeavour to have in the fridge and packed away for you. Our local store is only a 5-minute drive away at Lorn or alternatively, you will find Woolworths less than 10 mins away drive from the property. Due to insurance purposes, we have a strict NO party or event policy. The Convent can be hired for functions under certain circumstances and we welcome your call to discuss possible options. We sure do and it is an absolute stunning property for your creativity. Bridal photos are simply magical with the old-world charm, light filled spaces and heritage features. Dance studios will find the property a stunning compliment to creative photos and portfolio shots. Generally week days only.
Whether you own a residential or commercial building, looking for the best organizations to replace your roofing system is a complicated task. The cost of this work is very high that requires professional assistance. If your current roof is getting old or damaged, you need to start budgeting and look for a roof replacement Los Angeles provider. But without proper knowledge, you can get lost trying to figure out which firm to choose. Here’s a beneficial guideline for you explaining some factors to consider before choosing any service provider. Online Or Web Presence Try to grab referrals from other business owners as well as friends, family ties, and neighbors to ensure about work effectively for roofing improvements in your commercial or residential building. Make sure to go through diligent web research. Be careful, as the market is cluttered with scam companies whose sole intention is to mislead you, supply poor quality stuff, and have unprofessional technical hands. Check License and Insurance Before hiring a particular firm, your first step is to ensure that an agency has the necessary licenses and insurance for roofing work. Having a valid license allows a roofing organization to operate in the industry providing its solutions. Service providers must be prepared with employee compensation insurance that ensures the well-being of the workers involved in the project. In case of accidental injury at the workplace, having this insurance protects the homeowners or employers. Experiences And Workmanship History The company’s employees should be trained and experienced when it comes to roofing improvements. To ensure that a particular service provider can handle such a large project, check their work history and experience with their appropriate capacity. Try contacting your past customers directly and get reviews. They should know how to work with all roofing materials and roofing types. These specialists must have the necessary tools and skills to handle this task. All professional roofing companies Los Angeles go through the official process before undertaking your roofing job. Once your site has been inspected, they should provide you with an official quote for mutual understanding before starting work. It includes the type of job, project summary, deadline, and a list of materials. Additionally, it should involve a complete cost estimate and payment terms with the method discussed with you. Both parties have to sign the agreement for it to be valid.
MIT, Georgetown University, Cornell, Texas A&M, Rutgers University and the University of Maryland were all investigated to see whether they were in compliance with Section 117 of the Higher Education Act. “There is a lot of confusion… because the department has never issued formal guidance” Under the Act, universities are required to report to the Federal agency statutorily defined gifts from, and contracts with, foreign sources. The findings of the investigation were revealed in a letter by Reed Rubinstein, the principal deputy general counsel of the DoE to Rob Portman, chairman of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee in November. However, the letter has come under criticism from the American Council on Education, who claim it is “rife with inaccuracies and distortions”. According to ACE, the DoE has failed to clarify the current requirements so that they are “clear and unambiguous.” ACE also criticised the department for proposing an expanded information collection process that, according to the council, imposes a vast array of new requirements far exceeding the language of the statute. Sarah K. Spreitzer, director of the Department of Government and Public Affairs at ACE, told The PIE that her organisation took issue with the figure of 1.3bn because they are not sure what the department are including under that figure. “There is a lot of confusion amongst universities because the department has never issued formal guidance and so universities have been reporting, in a lot of cases, in good faith,” she said. “But the department is now expanding what they believe should be reported. If you look at the investigatory letters, they ask for a lot of information that goes beyond the Section 117 statute.” The DoE began their investigation in response to the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee’s report entitled “China’s Impact on the U.S. Education System,” which was released in February of this year. The congressional findings said that foreign government spending on US schools “is effectively a black hole” because US colleges and universities fail to report foreign money as required by law. “The department is now expanding what they believe should be reported” It found that the Communist Chinese government invests strategically in US education through Confucius Institutes and other vehicles. Additionally, it found that the public lacks an accurate or complete picture of China’s overall spending because US colleges and universities “routinely” fail to report foreign money (nearly 70% of colleges and universities failed to report in this case). The report noted that Chinese money comes with “strings that can compromise academic freedom”. The Doe’s consequent investigations into the six universities found that one had received research funding from a Chinese multinational conglomerate to develop new algorithms and advance biometric security techniques for crowd surveillance capabilities. According to Rubinstein’s letter, one university had multiple contracts with the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the People’s Republic of China. Another university accepted funds from the arm of a foreign government to create an “academic” centre expressly for the dissemination of propaganda and to conduct other “soft power” information activities. Other examples of Chinese influence included one university promoting a “Talents” program through a Chinese company with close ties to the Communist government. Another university received gifts from a foundation suspected of acting as a propaganda and influence front for the Chinese Communist government. In the letter, it was stated that one university had a relationship with Kaspersky, a Russian company that has been banned from contracting with the US government. It also stated that five of six universities reviewed have or had multiple contracts with the Chinese telecommunications company Huawei, a company that has been the subject of US national security and trust concerns. ACE’s president Ted Mitchell wrote his own letter to Rob Portman where he criticised the department for making it harder for universities to comply fully with foreign gifts and contract reporting requirements. He also responded to the investigation’s findings on the relationships between Huawei and Kaspersky. “The letter fails to note that Huawei was not listed on the Bureau of Industry and Security entity list until May 2019 and there was no final rule regarding Kaspersky and government contracts until September 2019,” he said. “Therefore, until recently, there were no federal requirements stopping or discouraging a university, or any US organisation… from engaging and working with those companies.” “There were no federal requirements stopping… a university… from engaging with those companies” Mitchell blamed the department’s “continuing punitive and non-responsive actions” towards Section 117 compliance, saying it had caused many institutions to be afraid of asking questions for fear of being investigated. “This runs counter to the goal of enhanced transparency of foreign gift and contract reporting,” he added. The Department has developed and released an information collection pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act, which it says will improve reporting accuracy and provide for “meaningful public access” to the data as required by law. ACE has responded to this new information collecting process, saying that it “unlawfully exceeds the authority granted to it by Congress” in Section 117.
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3 Cross Training Exercises For Runners If you’re a runner training for a big, or little, race, cross training is important to keep you injury free. If you just started to run and are going from couch to 5k, or a general training plan to run your first half marathon or marathon, you might want to swap out a running day with a cross training day to make sure that you don’t get an overuse injury. Single Leg Deadlift with a Row • Feet hip width apart knees should be soft, hold the kettle bell handle in your hand. • Hinge your hips as you lower the bell • When you’re as parallel to the floor as you can be, bring your elbow up to your side. • Lower the bell and use your hips/ gluts to bring your self vertical again. your focus should be on balancing on the foot thats on the ground. Walking Lunges with Medicine Ball • Hold the medicine ball close to your torso • Take a lunge forward with your left leg and rotate the ball over the leg. • In one movement bring the ball back to center and bring your right knee in the air to get into position to lunge over your right leg. 1.5 Kettle Bell Swings • Stand with one leg in front of the other with enough space between your legs to swing the Kettlebell. • Your back heel should be off the floor • Swing the bell back towards your butt and use your hip to thrust it forward around mid chest level. • Remember to switch to do the other side. Try these to weed out those weak links so that you can be a bulletproof runner.
AN INSIGHT INTO THE ISRAEL AND PALESTINE CONFLICT By Isobel McCarthy / 23 September 2020 Illustration by Melanie Petrovic The Israel/Palestine conflict is a recurring headline in our media outlets which has become synonymous with turmoil, instability and deep-rooted divisions. Its prevalence in global news has caused it to be regarded as the world’s “most intractable conflict”, as its longevity and complexity is so elaborate. In summary, the conflict is an interminable, religious and ethnic feud that embodies and exacerbates the struggles and tension within the Middle East. The conflict continues to pervade the Western system just as much as the MENA region. Yet, for many of us, its history is complicated by a plethora of contrasting views. In order for the conflict to be consumable for the average reader, it must be presented both completely and neutrally. Put simply, the conflict emerged in the late 19th and early 20th century due to the formation of nationalist movements amongst both the Jews and the Arabs. Each side attempted to gain sovereignty and rights for their people, whilst simultaneously not mutually recognising the other. This in turn has detrimentally affected security issues and human rights – as evidenced by the lack of freedom of movement for Palestinians, and the control of Jerusalem and Israeli settlements. Ultimately, this caused a build-up of animosity which has developed into the ongoing Arab-Israeli conflict that we know today. The crux of the conflict emerged in the mid 20th century, during both Amin al-Husseini’s reign as a Palestinian Arab nationalist and the end of World War II. Al-Husseini claimed that the Jewish nationalist movement and Jewish immigration to Palestine was the enemy, which gradually became embedded in Arabs identity. This belief coincided with the creation of the state of Israel in 1948, its purpose being to establish a permanent homeland for the Jewish people, providing settlement and security. This meant Jews became divided from the Palestinian community, exacerbating the cleavages that existed between either side. The 1948-Arab Israeli War By this point, these divisions were shaping the political climate of the Middle East and were perpetuated by the Arab League, a regional organisation created in March 1945 and made up of six members: Egypt, Iraq, Transjordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and Syria. The League agreed to intervene on behalf of the Palestinian Arabs by marching their armies into former British Palestine. The intervention erupted into the 1948-Arab Israeli War, causing 15,000 casualties and several armistice agreements of 1949, such as Israel’s hold of the former Mandate territory, Jordan’s occupation of the the West Bank and Egypt’s control over the Gaza Strip. Whilst the armistice agreements seemed complete, each was destined to fail, as both sides were unsatisfied and wanted more. The Suez Crisis (1956) and The Six Day War (1967) The effects of the 1948-Arab Israeli War are still felt today by victims and are exacerbated by other continuous internal and external battles such as the Suez Crisis (1956) and the Six Day War of 1967. The latter was particularly effective in enhancing Palestinian nationalism as Israel gained military control of the West Bank from Jordan and also took hold of the Gaza strip from Egypt. This victory made Israel three times its pre-war size and paved the way for the construction of settlements in the newly occupied territories. By this point, the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) was at the forefront of liberating the Palestinians, and was intent on violence aimed at Israelis. Settlers in the West Bank An issue that has served only to exemplify the underlying tensions between Palestine and Israel is the prevalence of Jewish settlers in the West Bank. The West Bank is a chunk of land east of Israel, that is home to nearly three million Palestinians. Israel took control of it during the Six Day War in 1967. For many Jews, the West Bank was the heartland of the ancient Jewish state whereas Palestinians consider it to belong to them. Ever since Israel’s control of the Bank, 500,000 Jews have migrated in groups to settle on or near the West Bank border with Israel. The settlements divide the Palestinians and weaken their status to land, while Jewish communities gain strength. For many, the settlers are violating the conditions of the Fourth Geneva Convention, although the Israeli governments dispute this. The United Nations has argued that the construction of settlements is obstructing peace in the Middle East, notably under the current Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In 2019, Netanyahu commissioned a further 3,500 homes being built in East Jerusalem which has ultimately served to prevent peace. The only solution seems to be a re-defining of the border which will be a lengthy and tumultuous process. The Gaza Strip Similar issues of sovereignty and land power are evident within the Gaza strip, a populated strip of land that has become a manmade humanitarian disaster. Israel’s military presence in the Strip was lost when it withdrew unilaterally in 2005. Despite this, it continues to control crucial aspects such as border crossings and sea and air space. Simultaneously, the Strip is ‘governed’ by Hamas, a militant “resistance” movement against Israel. Hamas’s takeover of the Strip triggered an Israeli blockade of the flow of commercial goods which has been detrimental to citizens access to health care, food and water. Furthermore, Hamas have fired thousands of rockets towards Israeli targets. The outcome of this has been numerous air campaigns, ground invasions and bombing campaigns. The Oslo Accords 1993 and Camp David 2000 Time and time again, the two sides have battled against each other for areas of land and sovereignty. But there have also been significant attempts at peace. In 1933, Rabin led Israeli officials into discussion with the PLO, headed by Arafat. This became known as The Oslo Accords of 1993. The discussions were excruciatingly slow, but progress was made. Israel agreed to gradually cede control of the Palestinian territories in exchange for peace. The agreements stalled after the assassination of Rabin which subsequently lead to no conclusive agreement between Arafat and the new Israeli Prime Minister, Barak. In 2000, there was a second chance at peace, mediated by Bill Clinton in the form of the Camp David Summit, 2000. Barak proposed a plan for a non-militarized Palestinian state. Also, the 69 Jewish settlements (which comprise 85% of the West Bank's Jewish settlers) would be ceded to Israel. The proposal was rejected by Arafat, and he failed to offer a counter-deal, eventually causing the Summit to have no tenable solution. Mr. Malley, a special assistant to President Clinton for Arab-Israeli affairs believed that each side came to the camp with completely different perspectives, which meant there were hugely divergent approaches. Clinton has since blamed Arafat for the breakdown of the summit due to his refusal to propose a counter-offer. Current Situation of the Conflict Peace is still being attempted, despite persistent levels of violence. Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel and the PLO, headed by Abbas are stuck in negotiations, with the Quartet on the Middle East, composed of the US, Russia, The European Union and the United Nations. Currently, there are two crucial ways in which the conflict can be resolved. The first and most popular approach is through a two-state solution. By having independent and separate states, each can run their own country that fits accordingly to religion, culture and history. Polling suggests that this would be the most applicable approach. The second approach is to have a one state solution. This would merge Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza strip into one country. If this were to take place, the Arab Muslims would outnumber the Jews and subsequently reduce Israel’s Jewish state. Whilst this does not seem an appropriate outcome, it is becoming inevitable as either side continue to fight and fail to reach agreements. Despite years of conflict and instability, there is still hope that a solution will be met, whatever that may be. It is important that, as citizens, we educate ourselves on the matter at hand. Share this article
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Note: in late November I was interviewed by the Russian website Geofor. Here is the English language translation of this interview. GEOFOR: Mr. Raevsky, no sooner have the American warships left the Black Sea than the British went in there. Apparently, “unscheduled exercises” of NATO ships and Ukrainian watercraft are about to commence, again. Again, near the maritime borders of the Russian Federation. Moreover, a couple of American military boats were delivered to Tag "the Saker" Dear friends, Today I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Scott Horton for the second time (click here to listen to my first interview with him after the Hamas takeover of Gaza) for his radio talk show. Scott asked me to call his show to discuss my recent article about Iranian options in case of a US attack. Click here to listen to this interview (the interview proper begins Yesterday I had the true honor and pleasure of being interviewed by Scott Horton, the fantastic Libertarian radio talk show host from Austin, Texas. His shows for Radio KAOS 95.5 in Austin are also streamed live the Internet through Antiwar Radio and are available on Scott’s excellent blog. I highly reccommend Scott’s show (his list of guests is simply fantastic) and his blog to all those who want to listen
The boss of TSB’s Spanish parent firm Sabadell has told reporters the UK brand’s cost-saving plans this year will result in job losses and branch closures. Sabadell CEO Cesar Gonzalez-Bueno was questioned at a news conference, following the publication of the group’s annual results, about a £29m provision made by TSB for restructuring costs this year. When asked if it would involve a reduction in bank staff and branches, he replied: “Yes, it will include both” but he did not put a number of either. Follow live: Reaction to Bank of England decision He went slightly further on the issue than TSB was explicitly prepared to do itself while outlining its own performance during 2023. However, the £29m provision did include an estimated £24.4m for estimated employee severance costs. TSB reported a 30% rise in pre-tax profits to £237.2m, aided by higher interest rates. It proposed a dividend of £120m to Sabadell – up from the £50m sum in 2022. But it added that inflationary pressures on its bottom line remained stubborn. Annual operating expenses only fell by 3.9% compared to the previous 12-month period when the effects of a big fine, relating to its disastrous 2018 customer migration programme, was excluded. TSB said it had set aside the £29m for a “programme of strategic cost saving initiatives which will reduce costs from 2024 onwards”. Mr Gonzalez-Bueno said details on planned cuts would be announced by TSB in due course, but the aim was to bring its so-called efficiency ratio – which measures a bank’s cost-to-income – down towards 60% from a current 73.6%. The bank told Sky News in reaction to his remarks: “We have been clear about our focus on reducing costs, but as with any announcements about changing how we operate, we always consult with our colleagues first.” TSB currently has 5,426 employees and 211 branches. Robin Bulloch, TSB’s chief executive, said of its 2023 performance: “We are reporting another year of sustained profitability, demonstrating the impact of both our continued focus on customers, delivering products and services that genuinely meet their needs, and the work to make TSB a simpler, more efficient, and resilient bank. “Throughout the cost of living challenges, our Money Confidence purpose has resonated strongly with our customers – and I’d like to thank everyone at TSB for their continued hard work to step up to support them.”
Sometimes you just need to crop a photo for a blog post, reduce red eye for a Facebook photo, or change an image size for a website article. However, if you’re not a graphic designer you may not have Photoshop on your desktop, or it may not be a large enough change that is worthy of opening Photoshop. This is when Pixlr is most handy. Pixlr is a robust photo editor you can use via Internet, on your desktop, or on your mobile device. It can be used for simple editing and sharing like Instagram, or even for more advanced Photoshop-like needs. A few handy features: - Add the extension to Chrome or Firefox so you can drag an image from any website to edit in Pixlr - Use the mobile app for editing on-the-go - If you use Google Drive, add Pixlr so you can edit and save photos from Google Drive The service offers three levels of use, mostly based on your skill level. - Use Pixlr-O-Matic to add auto-effects to your photos. This service is best for beginners, or if you just need to touch up a photo before publishing. - Use Pixlr Express for the most popular photo editing tools in an easy-to-use set up. - Use Pixlr Editor if you are familiar with advanced photo editing programs and tools. It offers around 1/5 of Photoshops most popular tools and features. Check out Pixlr next time you are looking to edit photos but don’t have or want to use Photoshop. It might become your new favorite photo editor!
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Kings fired head coach Todd McLellan, who went from high to low within months. The team announced the move on Friday during his fifth season with the team. The Kings have been in a slump since a hot start, coming close to first place in the Pacific Division, and have fallen to fourth. They were 3-7-5 in Jan., reaching a low standings-wise. The Kings appointed Jim Hiller as interim head coach for the remainder of the 2022-23 season. He joined the Kings in 2022 as an assistant coach after time with the New York Islanders, Toronto Maple Leads, and Detroit Red Wings. “We want to thank Todd for his hard work and dedication to the organization,” said general manager, Rob Blake. “He has done a tremendous job in moving us forward and making a positive impact on our group and in our community. This was not an easy decision, but we felt the change was necessary at this time. Jim is a well-respected member of our staff who is familiar with our players. We are confident in his ability to lead our team effectively during this pivotal time.” Hiller will begin the head coaching role, looking to turn around the Kings’ season. They have 56 points and are in the first Wild Card spot
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Looking back when I did the first Ceremony in October 1998, it felt wonderful to experience the final Template Ceremonies in Glastonbury 19 years later. What a journey it has been for us all, bringing us back full circle with the Sphere in Ceremony 16. These Actualisation Codes hold all the fractal aspects of the Template holonomic model of transcendence within them. They concern Time, language and the DNA. The Template Ceremonies 14 and 15 When Jiva Carter first encountered the geometry for C14 and 15, he said they encapsulated the entire Template Holonomic Model. The geometry for 14 & 15 might be my favorite yet .. it’s not as complicated (though not simple) as some of the previous. But in terms of the synthesis of the whole model it reveals so much. 5 cubes formed by rotating a cube (earth) on the axis of the edge – stopping or freezing in the phi ratio position. The 5 frozen edges form the pentagram and also delineate a dodecahedron (ether / spirit ) revealing the truth that matter and spirit are one. Jiva Carter The separation of spirit from matter is the founding reference originating from the iconic model within the psyche that leads to both the estrangement from the immortal continuum and the present neuro-psycho-biology that initiates the deterioration of the physical body unto death. Juliet Carter The Template Ceremony 16 Returning to the sphere makes complete sense. It reminds us that Ceremony 16 is not the end, it is just the beginning.
PHUKET: There will be further delays in Thailand rolling out the highly-anticipated foreign-flagged superyacht charter licence, industry representatives were told at at Thailand Yacht Show forum on Wednesday. Though the regulations and rules with regards to the actual superyacht charter licence were hammered out on August 10, a number of related issues remain as hurdles for superyacht owners, explained Somchai Sumanuskajonkul, a deputy director-general for the Thailand Marine Department. “The two major remaining issues deal directly with immigration law and value-added tax [VAT],” said Mr Somchai. “The relevant government agencies are working to create one-year-permission-to-stay approvals for superyacht crew members – linking their stays in the country with the ship’s stay. Additionally, progress is being made to create a VAT exception for superyachts.” The immigration issues are awaiting final approval by the Immigration Bureau commissioner, while the VAT exception needs to be enacted by royal decree, Mr Somchai said. Lies Sol, the charter manager and broker of Northrop and Johnson, expressed her concern that many yacht owners are already having to make the decision of whether or not to send their boats to Asia for next season. “Could you give us a timeline when the legal aspects of revenue and crew visas will be decided upon?” asked Ms Sol, also noting that preparations needed to be underway by charter brokers handling bookings for next season. “Please be assured that we are working very hard to get everything taken care of as quickly as possible,” Mr Somchai said. The discussion on the status of the superyacht charter licences between government officials and members of the marine industry was facilitated by the Thailand Yacht Show at the Thailand Yachting Forum at the Indigo Pearl (story here). The Phuket Gazette and PGTV, along with our partner newspaper The Nation, are proud to be the national media partners for the Thailand Yacht Show, Thailand’s largest and most lavish annual marine leisure event. — Chutharat Plerin Join the conversation and have your say on Thailand news published on The Thaiger. Thaiger Talk is our new Thaiger Community where you can join the discussion on everything happening in Thailand right now. Please note that articles are not posted to the forum instantly and can take up to 20 min before being visible. Click for more information and the Thaiger Talk Guidelines.
Sitting in an exotic café far from home, watching the most beautiful sunset you have ever seen, you marvel that you actually get paid to be there. You have been to more countries than you can count, while eating amazing local dishes, meeting new friends, and participating in fascinating and strange customs. You are not on vacation: you are earning a living while doing all of this. How? As a ‘digital nomad,’ a new breed of entrepreneur or employee working remotely from laptops. Does being a digital nomad sound like a fantastic idea? Would it work for you? If you are in web design, marketing, social media, bookkeeping, consulting, e-commerce, writing, online teaching, billing, virtual assisting, transcription or almost any work that primarily uses a computer, you can indeed travel the world while making a living. Most digital nomads don’t actually sit on the beach and work (it’s too bright, sand will ruin your laptop and there are many distractions), but plenty of nomads work out of cafes, hotel rooms and beach bars. Seasoned ‘desksurfers’ often prefer to use co-working locations around the world. At these co-working spaces you rent desks and have access to high-speed internet, printers, and lots of free coffee. These offices are generally available 24 hours a day so you can set your own work schedule, making it easier to connect with bosses, clients and vendors on the other side of the world. There are some extra bonuses to these co-working locations, too: meeting like-minded people, a variety of work areas both indoors and out, and the local nomad community who can help you get settled. Becoming a digital nomad is not for the undisciplined or those who need regular routines. Getting and staying motivated is very difficult when the ocean is calling and those around you are all on vacation. Where you go as a digital nomad depends on how much money you make. If you’re not earning much, you’ll probably find yourself traveling through less expensive regions where a little incomes goes a long way. Desksurfing in Europe requires a higher income stream than setting up digs in Southeast Asia. If you only want to be a digital nomad to travel and have fun, well you might want to rethink that. Working while traveling can be hugely stressful, especially if you have a job or business that has due dates or deadlines. In other parts of the world things don’t always go as planned, and you will encounter many obstacles to getting your work done. In that case, there are other options you should consider, like organizations such as Workaway, where they match you with open volunteer positions all over the world. You only pay travel expenses and get free accommodations and food while helping out and learning about other cultures. THINGS TO CONSIDER - First, a word of caution: ‘digital nomads’ lie in a gray area with regards to work visas in many countries. Technically you might be breaking immigration laws if you work in a foreign country without a work permit, even if your clients or employer are out of the country. Some countries don’t care; others are cracking down. Use your best judgment and don’t ‘flaunt’ working remotely online in a public forum or platform. Chat online with other nomaders in the country(ies) you plan to visit and see what they say. - There are many helpful articles and blogs online dedicated to becoming a digital nomad. Read as much as you can. Connect with co-working spaces before you hop that plane. They can usually help you find accommodations and give you helpful tips that will make your stay easier. - Use apps to make working over different time zones from your employer or clients easier, offline mapping to save data charges, finding free WIFI connections, see currency conversion rates, etc. - Get immunized, create a backup- and emergency plan, and buy travel insurance. Research the types of credit cards used (if any – many remote cities use mostly in, so watch those foreign transaction fees at ATMs). - Make your first stop somewhere with a lower cost of living and a large community of digital nomads to help you, like Chiang Mai in Thailand, Ubud in Indonesia, or Prague in the Czech Republic. - Don’t sell all your things back home and hit the road. Try the nomadic lifestyle first and see if it’s a good fit for you. If it is, cut some ties (and expenses) with your hometown and head back out. If it’s not, then you’ll have something to return to. Trying something new and discovering it doesn’t work for you is not failure. Not trying something you really want to do is.
Kumeu River Wines is the property of the Brajkovich family, who focus solely on producing world-class Chardonnay from their 30 hectares of vineyards near Auckland. When they started out in 1944, the Brajkoviches were among the pioneers of the New Zealand wine industry, and they have since become known as one of the country’s most respected producers, with a stellar international reputation. The vineyard’s soil is of an ideal structure for growing vines, retaining water deep down even in summer, and allowing vine roots to hydrate the plant without any need for irrigation. This is crucial for the quality of Kumeu River’s grapes, which are harvested by hand to ensure a harvest of exclusively high-quality fruit. Enter your discount code here ✔️ Discount code found, it will be applied at checkout. Discount code cannot be applied to the cart. Please provide a valid discount code. Discount code cannot be combined with the offers applied to the cart.
Because we only bring you the créme de la créme, we’ve got the hottest venue on our books for you guys right now – enter The Giraffe Shed. A family-owned venue on a farm in Central Wales, they describe themselves as a “bona-fide, one-of-a-kind, straight-up anomaly: a heptagonal palace of joy and confetti and dancing.” Like most anomalies, it has to be seen to be believed. It’s part giant rustic barn with surrounding meadows to frolic; part industrial warehouse with concrete detailing; part your living room, with velvet sofas and delicious dusky pink walls. It’s the perfect balance of blank enough that you can put your own stamp on it, and yet characterful enough to deserve the story of your big day. And SPEAKING of putting your own stamp on it – this shoot, photographed and concepted by Nesta Lloyd, is an absolute masterclass in romantic, ethereal wedding styling with a stylish cutting edge. Making the most of the beautiful brick walls and high ceilings, Fifi Boutique Bespoke created a cloud-like floral installation that hung above the table, filled with fluffy foliage and stems. The contemporary tablescape was decorated with soft runners and ribbons from Silk and Purl, alongside stationery designed alongside OBD Design. With the sunlight streaming through from the industrial windows – and Nesta’s genius angles – it looks like actual magic. Nesta then took bride and groom Janet and Matthew to explore the rest of the gorgeous Giraffe Shed. The barn is situated on a farm, giving them another beaut background; low sun, creamy fields (not Creamfields, big difference) and a vintage RV all provide even more room to play, plus all-important locations to escape from family for a bit when it comes to portraits time. Then, back to the barn for neon lights (designed by photographers, it’s a haven of incredible insta-worthy nooks and crannies) and mega dances (plus dogs! Joy of joys!) Wales, or California? We genuinely can’t tell right now… - Photography: Nesta Lloyd - Venue: The Giraffe Shed - Flowers: Fifi Boutique Bespoke - Assistant: The Destination Wedding Co. - Ribbons and Table Runners: Silk and Purl - Hair: Bridal Hair By Lindsey - Make-Up: Make Up Wearing Unicorn - Cake: Sam's Sweet Treats - Stationery: OBD Design - Hairpiece: Eden B Studio - Film: Phate and Edit
Paul Wilson is arguably the UK’s most recognised conman, famous for revealing the secrets behind everyday scams on BBC’s The Real Hustle. After a sell-out show last year, Wilson is returning to Edinburgh International Magic Festival in July to première his new tour, Artifice: The Art of Deception. Still in the throes of filming the latest series of The Real Hustle, we managed to catch a few minutes with Paul to talk about magic, cons, and how even the great scammer himself has fallen victim once or twice… How did you first get into magic? Well I came back from Singapore when I was about eight years old and moved to Edinburgh where my grandfather used to play cards every day, used to bet on horses, he was that kind of guy. He showed me my first card move which was kind of a move on how to cheat at a game of Gin – and that got me interested in cards. And then I saw Doug Henning on TV doing one of his magic shows which was sarcastic and that really stuck with me. So I got interested in the cheating, the deception stuff and the magic at the same time. I also specifically remember watching The Sting when I was a kid and that had a big influence on me. Out of the stuff you’ve done for the Real Hustle can you tell us what one or two of your favourites are or the best scams you’ve pulled? I always enjoy poker and the casino type scams, or the big scams that we’ve done – some of the Big Store ones. We had a boxing scam last season which was a classic old scam, where we convinced somebody that they were betting on a rigged boxing match and then something terrible happened and they lost all their money and of course the whole thing was a fix; that’s an all time favourite. One of my favourite scams is a thing called the Razzle which is just a carnival game but even though it’s a carnival game you roll some marbles and I count the totals and tell you what you’ve won. I can literally take every penny in your pocket and send you back to the ATM for more money with that game so that’s one of my favourites. But you know what, it’s kind of like asking which one’s your favourite child; you don’t have a favourite. I love them all. Have you ever had a con or a trick that’s gone horribly wrong? Yeah, of course. The Real Hustle is a very difficult show, we have to look after the people that we’re conning, we have to take a lot of steps and sometimes they don’t turn up, sometimes they realise things too late. They do go wrong sometimes – not all the time, we’re very good at what we do – but there’s so many factors that we can’t control even though we try and control everything. Sometimes we’ve spent tonnes of money, we’ve been setting up entire country houses and then, you know what, the mark decides he doesn’t want to come because for whatever reason he thinks he’s coming for, he’s happy not to do it. You can’t say, “Well actually there’s a camera crew and a bunch of guys that want to take your money, could you just come”. So those are the biggest disasters because you lose the whole day. But most of the time we’re very careful, we’re very good at what we do, and we look after the people that we con so we don’t let them get too upset or anything. If I was inclined to do so I could cheat you out of every penny you’ve got. Do you ever use your deceptions in real life or is it only for TV and magic? I use it every single day. I’m not dishonest, I don’t steal, I don’t keep stuff, but I’m always looking at stuff and pretty much everything I look at I think, “How could you beat that?” It doesn’t matter what it is – it could be a keypad to get into the bathroom at McDonalds – there’s always a way to beat it. So if you had to give up magic tomorrow what career do you think you would be good in with your skills? That’s a loaded question – the ideal criminal! You know what; I just don’t have what it takes to be a criminal. I’ve advised the police in the past, I’ve advised casinos. I think if I really wanted to I could probably be a decent, honest poker player, I just hope I can resist the temptation to be a really good dishonest poker player! Would you be good enough to enter high level poker tournaments and cheat and not get caught? If I was inclined to do so I could cheat you out of every penny you’ve got. What about something like the World Series of Poker Championship? Would you be able to pull it at that kind of level or is the security just too high there? There’s always a way to beat the game. The question is do the players know about it, do the security know about it and more importantly do they admit to it. There are many security systems that you just have to admit that there’s a flaw, and if you admit that there’s a flaw then you kind of know how to look out for it. Typical problems are when people pretend it’s an impregnable fortress that can’t be beaten. Whenever I do consult for people I always say, “Look, the problem isn’t the amount of time it takes for the security system to be beaten whether that’s a poker game or a computer system, the real problem is the amount of time it takes you to realise it’s been beaten”. That’s always the problem and in poker yeah you can beat the game; a high level game, a low level game. It doesn’t matter, there’s always a way of cheating it. Are there people out there that have similar skills to yours who use them for criminal purposes? Absolutely 100%. Every single day you look up Lexis Nexis you’ll find dozens of cons and scams that are coming out. Most of them are things we know about, a lot of them are little twists because cons grow and change with time and so they’re always being done. How many emails did you get today that were probably scams? So the way cons and scams have changed you used to find the mark and tail of the scam around the mark. Now what you do is you take your scam and throw it out to five million people and see who bites; it’s very different. But are there people out there? Yeah there’s tens of thousands of them. I know that the only reason that cons work is because the victim doesn’t know it’s a scam and all of this. It’s kind of a personal thing, but The Real Hustle and all the other stuff that I do is all about educating the public so that they can look at something and say, “you know what, I know this is a scam because I’ve seen it”. To the best of your knowledge, have you ever been a victim of a scam? Oh yeah, absolutely. When I was a kid I bought some jewellery from the guy on the street, it was an old pitch scam where he switches it all up. I played Three Card Monty when I was 19 because I knew how it was done. I lost my money; luckily I just didn’t have much money to lose! Like I tell everybody, if you think you can’t be conned you’re just the person they want to meet because everybody can be scammed. I know I could get scammed tomorrow. So I quite often stop in the middle of something and think, “Is this whole thing setup?” I’m even looking behind me now just in case…! Is this something that you think an ‘ordinary’ person could learn or does it take years and years of experience, knowledge and practice? Well you know, I consider myself to be a reasonably ordinary person! But yeah, I think anybody can learn it. You’re right, anybody can do this with just 25 years of practice! The thing I have that most people don’t appear to at these types of things – whether it’s magic sleight of hand or gambling sleight of hand or cheating or studying cheating – the thing that sets those people apart is that they enjoy research, they enjoy studying, they enjoy practicing. I enjoy all three; that’s what I do with my spare time. Last night while working I thought I’d practice with a deck of cards for about five hours and that’s about average for me. People say, “I can’t believe you practice for that long”, but that’s what I like to do and if you want to put that down for 30 years of your life then anything’s possible, whether it’s cheating or playing the guitar or anything. You just have to enjoy that process. What can we expect from your show in the festival? I’m designing a one-man show that’s going to tour the next twelve to eighteen months and kind of started last year’s festival, so it’s sort of the same thing. I’ll be doing some cons and scams on the audience, I’ll be demonstrating some classic hustles, showing how much can be done with a pack of cards, cheating, lies and really if it’s got anything about deception it will be in the show.
Every now and then you find yourself in the middle of a story, and wonder how the hell you got there. Like everyone else, I felt the terror rip through me when I first heard about little missing Cleo. I’ve got a 4-year-old child. So, like so many other parents, I imagined how that heartache felt. I sat around with friends and pondered theories. I lost sleep listening to the winds at night, wondering if she was out there somewhere. So when I found myself face to face with Cleo’s mum Ellie, and stepdad Jake, my emotions were high. It was 5:30am Monday morning, I checked in at Perth airport surrounded by a sea of fluoro shirts. As we all congregated in the departures lounge, I waited with my team to board a plane that would take us to the epicentre of one of the biggest mysteries in the country. What happened to Cleo, who took her and where is she now? I know there’s a pocket of society that might think the media are cold and heartless, perhaps we’ve done things over the years to earn that dishonourable badge. But I can tell you, every journalist, every camera operator, every producer I’ve spoken to about little Cleo, is as heartbroken and emotionally affected as the rest of the country. In Carnarvon, Ellie and Jake agreed to meet me ahead of our pre-planned interview for Channel 7. When I walked into our meeting place to greet them, I wasn’t sure what was appropriate. To them I was a complete stranger. To me, they were people I felt I knew. I’d seen them on the news for more than a week now. I wanted to give Ellie a big hug and explain that as a mum I felt her pain. But then I realised how ridiculous that was – I can’t feel her pain, I have no idea what that pain feels like. And frankly I hope I never do. So instead I shook her hand, then shook Jake’s. We sat down and talked. Our meeting was strictly off the record and I’m not going to breach their trust by writing about what was said. There were 4 people in that room, and we discussed the interview that would soon follow. Not long after that meeting, Ellie and Jake made their way to our interview location. We placed microphones on them, and they walked in to sit in front of the rolling cameras. You saw the interview on Channel 7’s Flashpoint that night, and you experienced the rawness that we felt in that room. After their plea had been recorded and the cameras were switched off, I walked out with Ellie and Jake and for a moment was speechless. I tried to find the words to say, “I hope they find her, I hope your plea for information helps, I’m sorry this has happened to you, and my heart is broken for you”. But instead, I gave her a massive hug, and said something like “I think what you just did was really brave, good luck”. To be honest, I don’t think it mattered what I said, the whole experience was probably such a blur for her anyway. That night, I was out at the Blowholes, recording Flashpoint’s live program. We were there til about 10pm. It was dark. It was so windy I could barely distinguish the noise of the thumping ocean from the howling wind. The area is so exposed and open there’s no shelter from it. It was freezing cold, and it was eerie. I looked around at the scrub, the tyre tracks, the wilderness and thought – there’s no way my 4-year-old would willingly walk into this. I’m not afraid to say that when I got home from Carnarvon, I hugged my kids tighter. Gave them a few extra kisses before bedtime. Then laid on my bed, and shed a few tears for Cleo, and for Ellie and Jake. I hope they find answers, I know the police up there are throwing everything at it. I hope this is one of those stories that ends in a miracle, and Cleo is found alive. I hope it happens today. If you know anything call Crimestoppers. Why train with ThinkBox? At ThinkBox Media we believe in Strategic Customised Training. This means your training will be developed specifically for you; your industry, your concerns, your real scenarios. A mining executive is not likely to face the exact same issues as a doctor, a government minister or a not-for-profit organisation. One Size fits all trainings do not work. Some people need a lot of time to improve their performance, others get stuck on the messaging. Many bigger companies already have some bases covered by their own comms teams freeing up more time to focus on the practical skills. Often a one-on-one training in required, other times small or larger groups may provide a more cost effective option for a team. We know you’re results driven and so are we! Not sure what you need? We can help you. We have been asked a lot of questions. Many of them about where to start. So we have created a comprehensive FAQ's section to help you navigate the journey.
Today we are happy to announce the addition of two new modules to our community repository and store. Over the years I have come to realize how much speed means to e-commerce shops. It can increase conversion and also affect search engine placement. These two modules that have been added to the community repository are a bit of outlier modules. The do not increase your site speed for the average user. In fact, they do not change it at all. What they do however is increase the perceived Page Speed to Google. The techniques that are used in these modules is somewhat hotly debated, that is why they are not included with thirty bees and are left in the community repository. See these modules hide their scripts when Google accesses your site. Some people have called this technique cloaking before, but personally my interpretation of cloaking is when the content changes. This is more the case of presenting the web in a smarter way in my mind. Presenting the content that Google needs and will index and removing some unnecessary scripts that are disregarded anyways. The two modules that have been added to the community repository are: Facebook Optimized Module – This module is based off the default thirty bees Facebook block. This module is generally used on the home page of your site or in one of the columns of your site. The module shows your site’s Facebook page and number of followers / likes. In the optimized module the whole Facebook output is hidden whenever Google accesses your site. The means the scripts with the short cache life no longer affect your site’s Page Speed score. If you currently use our default Facebook block module, this module should raise your Page Speed score by a couple of points. Google Analytics Optimized – The Google Analytics Optimized module is based off the thirty bees Google Analytics module. It has all of the features as our native module, with the exception of being able to hide your Google Analytics scripts from Google. Because Google Analytics loads several scripts, this module should raise your site’s Page Speed score by about 5 points if you are using it. One thing to note, using this module Google Tag Assistant will no longer work since the tags will be hidden from Google. So if you use the assistant a frequently this is something to keep in mind. To use both of these modules you need to make sure that your current versions of the Facebook Block or Google Analytics modules are uninstalled first, then you need to download and install these modules. These modules cannot work with the other modules installed. Remember, these modules are a use at your own risk modules.
If you don’t have a mailing list for your blog, you should start one now. You may have heard the expression that “the money is in the mailing list,” and it’s true! Social media followers will come and go, but you will always have access to your mailing list. When someone hands over the email address to you, it’s the first step towards building a relationship. They’ve trusted you enough to feel comfortable supplying an email address, so now it’s up to you to make sure that you continue to produce great content and send them valuable information in your emails. Setting Up Your Mailing List If you haven’t set up a mailing list yet, this will be your first step. I use MailerLite because it’s free for up to 1,000 subscribers, but there are a number of other options including ConvertKit, MailChimp, AWeber, MadMimi and more. After you sign up for your email service provider, you can begin creating forms to embed on your website, landing pages for gathering subscribers and pop-ups if you choose to use them. I find that it REALLY helps to have a great opt-in incentive to get your readers to sign up for your mailing list. This opt-in incentive or freebie doesn’t have to take a long time to create and you can usually put together something from content you have already written on your blog. Checklists are great, as are webinars, e-books, templates or printables. Creating a Template for Your Emails You don’t have to use a template for your emails, but I think it’s a great opportunity to work in your branding and set your email apart from all of the other emails that will find themselves in your reader’s inbox! I don’t like too many images in emails since they can result in your email being relegated to the spam folder and many times they won’t automatically load anyhow. I include my logo and blog tagline at the top of my email and social media buttons below the text of my emails. Most email service providers (ESPs) have premade templates you can use, but you can also create your own. I think it’s easier to just create your own and make it unique– too many of the premade templates look a little canned or cheesy. 🙂 Don’t Forget to Follow CAN-SPAM Act Regulations! It’s SUPER important that you adhere to the CAN-SPAM Act Regulations and include an unsubscribe link at the bottom of your email that is easy to locate. You must also include a physical address in your emails (at the bottom where the unsubscribe link is). If you do not have an office and do not want to use your own personal address you can rent a post office box and use that in your emails. Setting a Schedule for Delivery of Your Emails Just like blogging, you need to be consistent with your emails, and that’s exactly why I recommend not being too aggressive when your first start out. If you aren’t sure how much time you are going to have to devote to your mailing list, maybe shoot for every other week or once a month to start. If you find that you want to do more, you can always increase the frequency later. Should You Create an Automated Sequence? Some bloggers like to created automated sequences, and it’s available with most email service providers. An automated sequence is a series of emails sent out at predetermined intervals. For example, you might create a welcome email sequence that has 5 different emails that are sent every 4 days after your subscriber signs up for your list. Automated sequences can be used not only to welcome new subscribers, but also for e-courses, to sell products, or for affiliate sales. The best part is that you only have to create the emails once and they can be sent out over and over and over! Why It’s Important to Segment Your Mailing List Think about all of the emails that end up in your inbox on any given day– there are A LOT. The beauty of segmentation is that it allows you to send targeted emails to your subscribers. For example, my mailing list consists of bloggers. I segment my bloggers into beginner/intermediate bloggers and professional bloggers. If I chose to send out an email about starting a self-hosted WordPress blog, I wouldn’t want to send that to a professional blogger–only beginner bloggers. Instead of sending emails that aren’t applicable to the professional bloggers, I make sure that I only send content that is relevant to that group– maybe a mailing regarding how to better use affiliate marketing. Segmentation makes sure the right email gets in front of the right audience, who is much more likely to listen to what you have to say and continue to open your emails. You don’t need to have a ton of segments, rather start with a few and see how it works out. You can always add others as needed or take away ones that don’t seem to be applicable. Don’t Feel Bad When Someone Unsubscribes The natural tendency is to get really bummed when someone unsubscribes from your mailing list. We’re only human and it seems like a rejection when someone hits that unsubscribe button and disappears from your list. My advice is to reframe your thinking. I am happy when people unsubscribe from my list because it means they aren’t interested in what I’m talking about and will likely not be someone who will read my posts, schedule a coaching session or buy an e-book. They’re just not interested and instead of taking up space on my email list, I would rather them unsubscribe! What to Send Your Subscribers There are a couple of different things you can do with your mailing list… Set Up an RSS Feed Email Series Some bloggers like subscribers to get an email each time a new post is published. You can do this by setting up and RSS feed series (your email service provider will have instructions on how to set this up). If you publish several times a week, I think it’s nice to send a weekly digest of your posts instead of multiple emails throughout the week (this can be annoying and people will unsubscribe). You can include a brief snippet of the post and a link to read more on your blog (this is what I recommend) or you can send the whole post. I think a welcome series is a great way to introduce yourself and your blog to your subscribers. It’s a way to maintain contact right after they sign up for your list and get them in the habit of opening your emails. This type of series is also great for finding out a little more about your subscribers and how you might segment them. It’s also helpful to ask open-ended questions– you would be surprised that people will actually email you back with answers! My welcome series consists of about 4-5 emails sent periodically over the course of a week and a half. Create an Email Series to Sell Your Services, an E-book, or Course If you have a service to sell, an e-book or course or anything else promotional, your mailing list is a great place to reach your readers! An automated series of emails (3-5) is great for introducing your product or service to your subscribers. Once again, these types of automated emails work best with a segmented list– so make sure you are sending your promotional email series to your subscribers who are interested or might be interested in that specific product or service. If you are launching a new blog, product, service, website, app, etc, this same type of email series works great for getting your loyal subscribers to check it out! I hope you found these tips helpful for creating your blog mailing list–don’t wait to get started with it! PIN THIS FOR LATER!
Kanye West Announces ‘Donda’ LP Release Date in Ad Aired During NBA Finals Game 6 Kanye West previewed his upcoming Donda album, his first since 2019, as the Milwaukee Bucks and Phoenix Suns battled it out on the court during Game 6 of the NBA Finals. The rapper gave watchers a first taste via the song “No Child Left Behind” which scored a commercial for Beats By Dre, and announced that Donda will arrive on Friday. The ad, which features track superstar Sha’Carri Richardson, follows Monday’s surprise announcement for his Donda listening party at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, which is slated for Thursday. The show is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. ET. The listening event continues the grand approach West has taken during recent marquee album rollouts. He famously used a Madison Square Garden fashion show to debut The Life of Pablo in 2016. In 2018, he flew numerous journalists and celebrities to Wyoming for his Ye listening party. Donda is West’s first album since 2019’s Jesus Is Born, a gospel-inspired LP he recorded with his Sunday Service Choir. Last December, he dropped an EP with the Choir, the five-song Emmanuel. It’s unclear if Donda will be another Sunday Service collaboration or a return to hip-hop. West also produced Lil Nas X’s new song “Industry Baby,” which will also be released on Friday.
Businesses have the power to do much more than simply turn a profit. In today’s world, there is an increased focus on corporate social responsibility, which means companies are expected to give back to their communities. Below are eight creative ideas to consider. 1- Sponsor a Community Event Before you know it, community events will pop up all over your city. It is important that your business is on the radar for these community events, so you have a chance to get involved. One idea to consider is sponsoring an event where employees wear different team uniforms and play games as part of the day’s activities. The trick here is that these events are typically riddled with prizes and other giveaways, meaning they only require a little security or funding. 2- Give New Park Furniture Usually, new parks are put in when a city goes through a revitalization effort. These changes do not last long if the community does not get involved, so you must give something back to the community to help them keep the parks looking great. One way to do this is to donate new park furniture to them. 3- Take Part in a Charity Event Many businesses participate in charitable events such as walks, runs, and bike rides by donating money or participating in a race. It is great for you because it not only gets your name out there and shows your commitment to the community but also creates credibility for your business. 4- Create a Scholarship Fund for Local Students If your business has the budget, consider implementing a scholarship program at your local university or college. All you have to do is establish a scholarship fund for students in your community. It will give students studying in your area the financial boost they need to stay on track to complete their schooling. 5- Create Mentoring Programs College kids will graduate with huge debts, and the job market is not booming. As a result, consider working with local community groups to create mentoring programs for high school and college students. These programs generally consist of monthly or weekly meetings between mentors and students where they can discuss career paths and college life. 6- Provide Volunteer Services to Local Organizations If you have a few employees that have gotten bored with their current roles and would like to do something of real value for the community, you can send them out in different directions to volunteer at local organizations. 7- Support a Team As a business, you should support your local sports team and make personal appearances at their events. It will put your business on the right path to take advantage of the local community. Also, the more you can do for the team, the more they may do for you. 8- Go Green as a Company If your company is a major supporter of local causes, consider making your business go green. While you have to make sure you do not overdo it and end up costing more than you are making, this is a great way for your business to give back and stand out from other businesses. Thinking of ways to give back to the community is a great way to get involved and let people know who you are. It helps impact those around you and establish your company as a leader in the area.
That didn’t take long. U.S. District Court Judge Denise Cote has released her final judgment in the ebook price-fixing suit brought against Apple by the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) and 33 states. The summary? Cote has issued an injunction against Apple, barring the company from a number of the business practices that got it into hot water with the government, and requiring the company to submit to both internal and external compliance monitoring for a period of up to five years. However, the details of the injunction don’t go as far as the DoJ had initially proposed (see “DoJ Proposed Remedies in Ebook Price-Fixing Suit Miss the Point,” 7 August 2013). That’s good news for Apple, particularly with regard to those proposals that would have affected aspects of Apple’s business outside the iBookstore, such as requiring Apple to allow ebook retailing rivals to include purchasing links to their own stores within their apps. Regardless of whether that policy is bad for customers, it wasn’t involved with the lawsuit, and was overreaching on the part of the DoJ. Instead, the injunction focuses specifically on Apple’s involvement with all ebook publishers (which technically includes TidBITS Publishing Inc., through our Take Control series, though we don’t anticipate the ruling having any effect on our relatively minimal relationship with Apple). In the list of prohibited behaviors, Apple may not enforce a retail price MFN term or enter into any agreement with an ebook publisher that includes such a retail price MFN term. (MFN, or most-favored nation, means that a retailer can match other retailers’ prices, regardless of other agreements.) Plus, Apple cannot enter into an agreement with any of the big five publishers who were also named in the suit (all of whom settled) that restricts Apple’s ability to “set, alter, or reduce” the retail price, with a series of staggered expiration dates for each publisher ranging from 24 to 48 months. A series of other terms govern Apple’s communications and contract negotiations with ebook publishers. Most of these terms are innocuous (no punishing publishers for not agreeing to particular contractual terms, no sharing details of one ebook publisher’s agreement with another) or obvious (no agreements that will likely result in price-fixing or price increases for other ebook retailers). In terms of required conduct, Apple must either terminate or modify agency agreements with the big five publishers to avoid the previous restrictions on Apple’s price-setting abilities. It’s not clear if this has much meaning, given that the publishers already had to agree to something similar in their settlements. Also, Apple must apply the same terms and conditions to ebook apps as all other apps in the App Store. Again, as far as I know, this doesn’t require Apple to change its behavior at all. Finally, there’s the tattletale clause: Apple must promise to pass on to the DoJ and the states any information that an ebook publisher is attempting to coordinate ebook prices or terms in violation of antitrust laws. That last task will likely be handled by an internal Antitrust Compliance Officer, reporting to the Audit Committee of Apple’s board of directors. This person has a laundry list of tasks to perform with respect to training, certifying, and monitoring Apple’s board of directors, executive team, and iBookstore employees in antitrust compliance. The Antitrust Compliance Officer must also maintain and produce a log of all oral and written communications between key Apple employees and ebook retailers or a group of two or more ebook publishers. Whoever ends up in this position will probably end up eating lunch alone a lot. Unless, that is, the Antitrust Compliance Officer can do lunch with the External Compliance Monitor, with candidates for that position suggested by Apple, recommended by the DoJ and the states, appointed by the court, and funded by Apple. The External Compliance Monitor’s task is to review and evaluate Apple’s existing and future antitrust compliance policies and procedures and report the findings back to the DoJ and the states, along with recommendations for improvements in Apple’s antitrust compliance. Frankly, it sounds like antitrust compliance will involve a lot of jumping through hoops. But it’s in many ways a reasonable penalty for Apple’s executive team and legal counsel failing to see the antitrust concerns while initially negotiating with the big five publishers. I do have a few other thoughts, based on my close reading of Judge Cote’s opinion and subsequent research (see “Explaining the Apple Ebook Price Fixing Suit,” 10 July 2013), but take these with a grain of legal salt — I’m not an antitrust expert, or even a lawyer. - There’s only one mention of financial damages made, in the initial footnote: “Issues related to non-injunctive relief, including damages and civil penalties, will be addressed in subsequent proceedings.” So it remains to be seen how much money this decision will cost Apple. Regardless, with the kind of money Apple makes, no damages are likely to impact the company’s business in a material way. - Apple continues to protest its innocence, and will likely file an appeal now that the final judgment has appeared. It’s difficult to see the decision being reversed, and although I know the law doesn’t work this way, from a lay perspective, it’s hard to have huge sympathy with Apple’s protestations after the company settled with the European Union over the same behavior (see “Apple Offers Ebook Settlement Terms… in Europe,” 12 August 2013). The terms of the injunction don’t seem all that different from the settlement terms that Apple agreed to in Europe, apart from the compliance monitors. So the difference would seem to be merely a question of the admission of wrongdoing, which isn’t implied by the EU settlement, but which is implicit in losing the U.S. antitrust case. I assume Apple is trying hard to avoid being painted as a monopolist. The final judgment has a variety of expiration dates built in, ranging from the two- to four-year expirations for agreements with the various publishers to the two-year appointment of the External Compliance Monitor (with optional one-year extensions as necessary). But the final judgment itself expires after five years, assuming that the court doesn’t extend the expiration date by one or more one-year periods, “if necessary to ensure injunctive relief.” In other words, if Apple behaves, all of this will go away, starting in two years, and culminating after five years. In the end, regardless of whether or not Apple appeals, and whether or not such an appeal succeeds or fails, it’s hard to see this final judgment having a significant impact on Apple’s business. The fact is that the iBookstore is in no way core to Apple’s fortunes; it was, and likely will remain, a tiny percentage of the company’s revenues since it turned out not to be key in the eventual popularity of the iPad. What about the standpoint of allowing Apple to compete with Amazon in the ebook market? The restrictions imposed by the final judgment ensure that Apple would have to change gears entirely if it wanted to go head-to-head with Amazon; I see that as unlikely. If beating Amazon in the ebook market was really the goal, I think Apple would have to slash retail prices below Amazon’s, drop DRM entirely, eliminate the gratuitous restrictions on the sale of iBooks Author-created ebooks, offer a MatchBook-like service (see “Amazon Announces Kindle MatchBook,” 3 September 2013), and port iBooks to platforms like Android and Windows. I simply don’t think Apple cares enough about the ebook market to go to such lengths.
Getting the right start Anything worth doing, is worth doing right. Anything worth doing, is worth starting right. I always start my swims the same. A 400m medley, 100m of each stroke. This means we’re starting out with 100m of butterfly, arguably the most demanding, but also power-endearing stroke of the four main strokes. This is setting off with a bang. This is getting started in the right way, with the right attitude and mindset. This is because, swimming is not an easy thing. Or at least, not how I swim. I like to push myself, and I like to take things very seriously, starting off with how I start off. This sets the tone for the rest of the swim, and guarantees a good start. MOUNTAINS OF WISDOM Subscribe to my yamabushi newsletter RECENT BLOG POSTS YAMABUSHI BLOG POSTS
Running in the rain What would it take for you to go for a run in the rain? Those who saw my Instagram story this morning would have seen a post about an ominous sky. When I left the house, all I could see was a bright sky full of white clouds. I ran basically in one direction as I always do for quite a while, at least 2km. Then when I turned around to head back, I noticed the sky behind me was full of dark grey clouds in contrast to the white sky that was ahead of me until then. That’s when I realised, if I don’t hurry up, I’ll get drenched. If that dark sky was only a few kilometres closer to my house, I would have thought twice about going out. But when we do Yamabushi training, the date is set, and we go out no matter what. I think that’s a good mindset to have, that you’d do anything because you’ve put your mind to it, and you’d do it no matter what. The real test would be a rainy morning though. I’m not sure my wife would like me going out in the rain, although I’d probably be ok with it. MOUNTAINS OF WISDOM Subscribe to my yamabushi newsletter RECENT BLOG POSTS YAMABUSHI BLOG POSTS
Many companies are venturing out into the pharmaceutical sector due to numerous advantages. However, it becomes difficult to choose a particular niche. Businesses find different niches such as PCD Pharma, generic pharma, and ethical pharma. Therefore, it is easier to be confused. Entrepreneurs can choose any of them for better profits. So, the following discussion would reflect on the differences between PCD, generic, and ethical pharma sectors. However, the major highlight of the discussion would be essential to find out the best pcd company. A closer look at these factors can contribute to your opportunities for starting your own pharma business. First of all, let us discuss something about Pharma Franchise. With the franchise model, you can receive authority from a pharmaceutical company to market their products. As a franchise, you will receive the business right as well as much-needed support from the company. The franchise model is considered as a promising and flexible channel for pharma distribution. Major pharma companies have proved this for decades. Furthermore, recent improvements in facilities and infrastructure provide credible opportunities for franchise business model. The two most popular business models are PCD and General franchise. Let us find out the differences between them to make the best pick. Difference between PCD and General franchise Pcd pharma company cover a smaller area as compared to a general franchise. So, you could find many PCD franchises in a general franchise. Small investors can gain the most from the PCD model easily. It provides the chance to start a business with a small amount and start making money instantly. On the other hand, you need a large investment for starting a general franchise. Although the returns on investment are equally proportional in general and pcd franchise, pcd is relatively easy. Furthermore, if you are new to the pharma business, then pcd is the right choice. Why? You don’t need extensive experience and qualifications to follow the PCD model. Another notable factor that you will find with a pharma franchise is the limited product range. The general franchise provides an extensive product list, and this is one area where the PCD model falls behind. However, you can look at the positive side that you can start small and gradually expand the product portfolio. The PCD model has direct links between owners and retailers, chemists, and clinics. Similarly, a general franchise provides access to diverse sources of distribution. So, this clearly shows the advantages of the PCD model for entrepreneurs. A wider assortment of options Some of the other options to consider for launching a business in the Pharma sector include generic and ethical pharma. The generic sector involves direct selling of generic medicines to retailers. Sales representatives are responsible for the sales through distribution channels of a pharma company. Generic medicines have lower costs as compared to branded products, and so they are preferred in economically weaker markets. The ethical pharma sector is another notable component in the pharma sector. Ethical Pharma depends on a network of medical representatives. Medical representatives convince retailers, medical professionals, and physicians and promote products based on merit. However, medical representatives need promising communication skills and persuasion power. Another notable strategy for business in the pharma sector is third party contract manufacturing. This model allows outsourcing production of pharmaceutical products from other manufacturing units. This is a helpful approach for reducing time and money investments in product development. Furthermore, third party contract manufacturing allows for better control over the production process. Therefore, you can also opt for the contract manufacturing route to kickstart your business in the pharma sector. On the other hand, the PCD Pharma model or Propaganda-cum-distribution is ideal for any individual. The pharma company provides rights for marketing and distribution within a particular territory. A businessman following the PCD model would have to buy franchise rights for selling and promotion of products. The two distribution channels in the PCD model are stockiest and retail channels. The best thing about PCD is that you can start a business with low investment and a limited product portfolio. Also, the prospects for better profits draw more interest in the PCD model. Tips for choosing the right PCD Company Now that we have outlined the different types of pharma models available let us find out essential factors to select the right PCD Pharma Company. Here are some of the important factors that you should not miss. - The first thing is the name of the company. The company should have a professional and striking name. The name should be easily pronounced and rememberable. The name of the company is the identity which you have in the PCD pharma - The brand names should also be equally prominent as the company name. The company should have unique packaging and labeling for each product. This can help a lot in differentiating products from other companies. - The next important thing to look for in a PCD company is the range of products. A wider product range can help you choose better options according to your needs. - You always need available stock for better business outcomes. You always need to have a regular supply of products to keep your sales running. Lack of stock can lead to your product losing out to the competition. - PCD companies should provide a wide range of effective materials for promotion. Examples of promotional material include visual aids, bottle, brochure, catch covers, visiting card, prescription pads, and others. - The most crucial thing to look for in a PCD Pharma Company is the facility of monopoly rights. Monopoly rights can give you peace of mind to work on the marketing and distribution of products in your area. Therefore, there are no worries about competition. - Verify the payment terms and conditions clearly with the company. You need to get written documentation regarding payment terms and conditions from the company. - Finally, you have to verify the credibility of the PCD Company before putting your money in it. Certifications such as ISO and WHO-GMP are highly important. Furthermore, you can take a look at the company’s achievements, awards, recognitions, and history. These factors can help in understanding if the company is suitable for your pharma business aspirations. Based on an observation of the above discussion, it can be concluded that the PCD business model is ideally suited for starting a pharma business. The effective control over your business and better prospects for returns on investment in PCD business model speak adequately. As compared to other pharma business models, PCD offers sufficient advantages and support for running a pharma business. Furthermore, you could also rely on the essential factors mentioned in this discussion for choosing the right PCD Company. or you can visit us at PharmaBizConnect or you can call us at 7388111103.
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Indian PM Modi using cheap tactics to gain electoral support: Experts In the spotlight once more is Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's political strategy, wherein he accuses Pakistan of supporting terrorism in India to garner electoral support. Recent events have sparked concerns of orchestrated false flag operations aimed at diverting attention and achieving political objectives. On September 16, Indian media reported the deaths of several Indian Army officers and soldiers in an encounter with alleged "terrorists" in the Uri sector of Baramulla. Similarly, on September 12, news surfaced of a similar operation by Indian forces in Anantnag. Critics employ the term "false flag operation" to describe what they believe to be India's deliberate ploy to shift global focus away from human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) by falsely implicating Pakistan in supporting terrorism. Some suggest that, in preparation for upcoming Indian elections, the Modi government appears willing to sacrifice both citizens and military officers, possibly aiming to replicate an incident like the Pulwama attack for political gain. They cite international media reports and audio/video evidence suggesting Indian involvement along the Line of Control to further political ambitions. Reports indicate that the Modi government has made a habit of creating a war atmosphere through staged encounters and fabricated news, even aiming to terminate the ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control. As the government faces criticism for its handling of unrest in Rajouri and Anantnag, it is alleged that India is deflecting blame onto Pakistan. The killing of five Indian soldiers in the Rajouri sector of Occupied Jammu and Kashmir is seen by critics as an attempt by Modi to bolster his political image. However, images and videos from residents near the Line of Control contradict Indian government claims, with residents stating that there has been no firing or military activity in the region. Critics question why Modi would celebrate if the border situation were indeed serious and Indian soldiers were losing their lives. They point to a history of using similar tactics before elections, including making false terrorism accusations against Pakistan. Prominent figures and parliamentary leaders in India have warned of incidents resembling the Pulwama attack in the lead-up to elections. Residents near the Line of Control on the Indian side express relief at the absence of terrorism or firing and dismiss these claims as false rumors. Meanwhile, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, General Counsel for Sikh for Justice (SFJ), categorizes the killings of Indian soldiers in Occupied Kashmir not as acts of terrorism but as casualties from the conflict with indigenous Kashmiri freedom fighters. Pannun emphasizes the right of Kashmiri freedom fighters to seek independence and warns of a potential escalation in Punjab if a peaceful resolution is not sought, drawing parallels to the aspirations of Punjab's people, including Sikhs, for autonomy from what they view as unlawful Indian occupation. Pannun also highlights the sensitive situation in Kashmir, where the Indian army has faced accusations of instilling fear among innocent Kashmiris and targeting freedom fighters. He anticipates that the conflict may extend to Punjab in the future as part of an effort to free it from Indian control.

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