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Ramadan – considerations for employers
The Muslim holy month of Ramadan began on 22 March 2023 and will end 29 or 30 days later. During Ramadan, adult Muslims observe a fast between dawn and dusk. Exceptions are made for those who are pregnant, menstruating or in poor health.
There is no automatic right to time off in England & Wales for religious observances. Subject to any agreement you might reach with your staff they would be expected to come to work as usual during Ramadan (and, indeed, during Eid al-Fitr which follows it).
There are several points which employers should consider when looking to support Muslim employees during Ramadan:
- Awareness is important. You should make sure that employees are aware of the timing of Ramadan and, potentially, provide information to educate your employees on what it means for Muslims. It is also important to make it clear that discrimination or harassment on grounds of religion will not be tolerated.
- You have an obligation to support the wellbeing of your employees. Fasting may leave employees fatigued, with reduced concentration and energy levels. Consider what adjustments you might be able to put in place to help your employees with this. For example, you could replace a lunch hour with several smaller breaks. You could avoid scheduling long meetings where concentration might be an issue. You may agree to allow employees to move their working day earlier so that they start work soon after sunrise and will have the benefit of having just eaten.
- Do not assume that all Muslim employees will need adjustments or that they will be observing Ramadan. There are specific exceptions for menstruation, pregnancy and ill health. Muslim employees who are not observing Ramadan for one of these reasons may not wish to discuss such personal issues. For this reason, businesses may decide to make it clear that support is available but ask employees to approach them to discuss it.
- You should consider the appropriateness of holding social events focused on eating or drinking during the month of Ramadan. You want to make sure that employees do not feel excluded.
If you communicate openly and supportively with your employees then you should be able to work with them to make sure that they feel supported during Ramadan whilst also making sure that they continue to operate effectively at work.
Adrian Fryer, Partner & Head of Employment
t: 0151 224 0539 |
Welcome to Beso
What is a Vampire Facial?
The Vampire Facial, often surrounded by a halo of celebrity endorsements, is more than just a trend. It’s a fusion of science and nature, designed to combat the very signs of skin aging and dullness. This treatment harnesses the regenerative potential of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) derived directly from your bloodstream. When combined with micro-needling, it fosters unparalleled collagen production and skin cell renewal. Imagine tapping into your body’s own reservoir of healing, channeling it precisely where you desire – a rejuvenated face. At Beso, we elevate this procedure to an art, ensuring each application is a symphony of precision, care, and beauty.
Benefits of Vampire Facial
- Deep Revitalization: Beyond surface-level treatments, experience rejuvenation from within.
- Enhanced Texture & Tone: Say goodbye to scars, discoloration, and unevenness. Embrace a complexion that mirrors clarity and smoothness.
- Minimized Pores: Bask in the joy of refined pores, the very canvas for flawless makeup application.
- Safe and Biocompatible: With your own PRP as the star, anticipate zero allergic reactions or complications.
- Optimal Absorption: The magic of micro-needling ensures PRP penetrates deeply, magnifying every benefit it promises.
- Sustained Results: With the dual action of PRP and micro-needling, results are not only immediate but enduring, giving you value for every penny spent.
Advantages over Other Procedures
While the aesthetic world brims with treatments, the Vampire Facial carves its niche:
- Less Invasive, More Impact: Witness dramatic results without the perils of surgery or prolonged recovery periods.
- Customized Just For You: Every face is unique, and so is every Vampire Facial at Beso. From PRP concentration to micro-needling depth, everything is tailored.
- A Symphony of Treatments: It’s not just a standalone marvel. Combine it with other treatments for holistic skin transformation.
- Empowerment: It’s not just about looking good, but feeling empowered, knowing you’re harnessing your body’s own healing prowess.
- Uneven skin tone: Brighten and balance with every session.
- Scarring: Be it from acne or injuries, scars fade into tales of the past.
- Fine lines & wrinkles: Turn back the clock, smoothing out age’s imprints.
- Dull, lifeless skin: Ignite a luminance that’s infectious and radiant.
- Enlarged pores: Refinement in every sense, ensuring a porcelain finish.
Consultations with Beso in Phoenix
Your skincare journey with Beso is akin to a partnership. We listen, understand, and then curate. Our in-depth consultation dives deep into your skin stories, aspirations, and dreams. Our experts then craft a bespoke Vampire Facial regimen, ensuring every session is a step closer to your skin nirvana.
Preparing for Vampire Facial
As we pave the path for unparalleled skin transformation, there are a few steps for you. Refrain from alcohol or blood-thinning medications for about 72 hours. This ensures the PRP is at its potent best. And always, transparency is key. Discuss your skincare regime, any supplements, or medications during your consultation.
The ritual commences with cleansing, followed by micro-needling. As the tiny channels open up, they are drenched in the golden elixir of your PRP. Every drop seeps deep, initiating a cascade of skin revival. At Beso, every step is underpinned by stringent standards, ensuring potency and perfection.
While the Vampire Facial is gentle, your skin has embarked on a profound journey of renewal. Expect a slight sunburn-like redness, a testament to the deep work underway. Sunscreen is non-negotiable, and it’s wise to let your skin breathe, keeping makeup at bay for a day or two.
Associated Services in Phoenix
At Beso, we believe in holistic beauty. Dive into our treasure trove:
- Vampire Facelift: A step further, for those desiring volume and contour along with skin rejuvenation.
- Microneedling: A dance of tiny needles, awakening your skin’s true potential.
- Laser Treatments: Precision, power, and promise, all bundled into beams of light.
- Dermal Fillers: Sculpt, lift, and contour, crafting the visage of your dreams.
Cost of the Vampire Facial
Beauty is an investment in oneself, and at Beso Wellness & Beauty, we prioritize transparency. For the most up-to-date pricing information for the Vampire Facial in 2023, we encourage you to contact our office. Beauty at Beso goes beyond price tags; explore our financing options, loyalty programs, and seasonal offers to enhance your experience.
Duration of the procedure?
Set aside 60-90 minutes for a transformative experience.
Minimal! But give your skin the luxury of rest for a day.
Some changes are immediate, but the true magic unfolds over weeks as collagen peaks.
How does it differ from the Facelift?
While both harness PRP, the Facial focuses on texture and tone, and the Facelift on volume and contour. |
Each Wednesday at 10 AM, we gather at TBT to knit and connect….to kibbutz and schmooze….to share conversation and knitting tips!! Knitters of all levels of experience are welcome to join us. Non-knitters are invited to join in also…you are invited to play cards or board games or just talk!
We are a very social and welcoming group! Come check us out!
Contact Carol Goldstein at [email protected] for more information. |
Virginia’s casino gaming revenue received a 28% boost in May with the opening of Caesars’ new temporary Danville Casino.
The Virginia Lottery Board approved a casino license for Caesars Virginia in April and the temporary facility in Danville, Va., opened to the public on May 15.
With three casinos now operating in the commonwealth, May’s adjusted gross revenue (AGR) came in at $45 million, up 28.6% from April ($35 million), according to the Virginia Lottery’s monthly report released Thursday.
More On Temporary Caesars Danville Casino
The new temporary Danville Casino has 768 slot machines, 25 table games, kiosks for Caesars Sportsbook and one small restaurant called Three Stacks that serves classic American food and drinks. The 40,000-square-foot temporary facility is the Future Home of Caesars Virginia, a massive $650-million permanent resort slated to open in late 2024.
The casino falls under the same corporate umbrella as the Caesars Sportsbook VA.
Danville Casino didn’t fall far behind Bristol Casino in May for reported AGR. Bristol Casino earned an AGR of $13 million for the month with Caesars coming in at $12 million. Bristol Casino was the first casino to open in Virginia in July 2022 after receiving a license from the Virginia Lottery in April 2022.
Rivers Casino Portsmouth earned the lead for the month of May, reporting $21 million in AGR.
With the addition of Danville Casino, and based on the Virginia Lottery’s May report, there are now 3,105 slot machines operating in the state. These slot machines generated $35 million in AGR for the month, up 39.6% from the $25 million in the April Virginia casino revenue report.
Slots Still More Popular Option
Slot machines at Rivers Casino Portsmouth generated the lion’s share of AGR in May, reporting $13.86 million, up 0.26% from April ($13.82 million). Rivers Casino operates 1,416 slot machines compared to 921 at Bristol Casino and 768 at Danville Casino.
But casino slot machines are the new kid on the block for Virginia.
The state also collects tax revenue from 2,607 Historical Horse Racing (HHR) machines that started operating in the commonwealth in 2019. In April, HHR machines operating at six Rosie’s Gaming Emporium locations in the state handled over $367 million in bets.
Casino table games at Bristol, Portsmouth and Danville generated an AGR of $10,401,168.80 million in May, up 1.5% from April ($10,250,276.95).
Table games at Danville Casino gained the lowest AGR overall for the month at $1.7 million.
The three casinos combined paid $8 million in taxes to the state from their May AGR, up 28.6% from April ($6 million).
The state continues to promote casino gambling and VA sports betting at an incredible pace with three casinos open and 15 online sportsbooks available to bettors. State lawmakers watch carefully for further tax collection from future casinos and sportsbooks.
Future Casino Development in Virginia
In 2019, the Virginia General Assembly passed legislation to allow five casinos in economically challenged cities: Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Richmond. All cities but Richmond passed a casino referendum. Richmond voters rejected the idea of a casino project in 2021.
On Monday, the Richmond City Council cleared the way for the capital to put a second casino referendum up for a vote again in November by approving three pieces of legislation.
Meanwhile, in Norfolk, the Headwaters Resort & Casino, approved by voters in 2020, has experienced a few setbacks in development. Managed by the Pamunkey Indian Tribe Gaming Authority, the project has had to change plans for its casino multiple times.
Status of Pamunkey Project
An effort to place a temporary casino inside Harbor Park baseball stadium was shot down in July 2022, forcing the tribe to select a new location.
A new location was announced in September 2022 between the baseball stadium and an Amtrak train station along Park Avenue. The temporary facility would have been built on the same property where a much larger $500 million permanent casino titled HeadWaters Resort & Casino will stand. The Pamunkey Indian Tribe will own the casino.
It now appears the idea of a temporary casino has been dropped.
On Wednesday, Headwaters announced on its Facebook page that it had submitted a Development Certificate Application to the City of Norfolk to move forward with the “initial facility” of the HeadWaters Resort & Casino.
Company officials submitted new renderings of the casino to a local TV station showing an overall change in the way developers plan to move forward with the buildout.
Jay Smith, a spokesperson for the HeadWaters project, said the idea is now to build the full casino project in two phases, the first of which will operate until Phase 2 is complete. That includes the hotel and improvements to the Elizabeth River shoreline.
In addition, the facility is still waiting for an operator’s license from the Virginia Lottery.
In July 2022, John Thompson, a developer working with the Pamunkey Tribe on the HeadWaters Resort & Casino project, told Norfolk City Council the Virginia Lottery has everything it needs from the company to obtain a license.
“We are still in the licensing phase of the project with the Virginia Lottery,” Thompson said in July 2022. “There are a lot of challenges that we are working through and have worked through.”
Officials hope to open the casino resort this year. |
Black Hawk College has authorized the National Student Clearinghouse to provide transcript ordering via the web. There is a minimal processing fee associated with the transcript order. Provide a major credit or debit card when placing your order. Your card will only be charged after your request is complete.
To update your address in our student database, email the change to [email protected].
To order an official BHC transcript:
- Log in to the Clearinghouse secure site.
- The site will go through placing your order, including delivery options and fees. Order as many transcripts as you like in a single session. A processing fee will be charged per recipient.
- Order updates will be emailed to you. Track your order online.
When placing an online transcript request, remember that all requests will be filled in the order in which they are received the next business day. |
Children Ministry Resources
National Children and Youth Survey
A nationwide survey of children and youth was conducted from 2014 – 2015 to understand the current state of ministry to Singapore’s children and youth.
Children’s Resource & Equipping Fair 2015
We want to help you disciple your children for Christ and have compiled many useful resources for you to use.
Sower Publishing Centre Resources
Bible Resource Centre
The BRC offers a variety of different English Bible versions, foreign language Bibles, children’s books and gifts, small group curricula, Holy Land gifts, and many other Christian books (from both local and international authors).
We are constantly developing new resources to engage people with the Word of God. These are the titles now available as eBooks to appeal to the new generation of readers. |
Support Live Comedy in Baltimore!
Your contribution to the Baltimore Improv Group helps support our mission of advancing the art and appreciation of improv comedy in Baltimore. Your donations help us fund our Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship program, space improvements, and much more! By donating to BIG, your one-time or recurring gift will create a reliable source of ongoing funding for BIG to continue to create innovative arts programming that helps support the programs, performers, and people you love at BIG!
The Baltimore Improv Group (BIG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donations are tax deductible. |
In this interview series, Canadian Travel Press’ executive editor, Bob Mowat, will talk with leading experts in the field of artificial intelligence to gather insights on how A.I. will shape the future of travel distribution.
Join Adrian Lopez, the head of Flight Centre Travel Group’s new A.I. Center of Excellence, to learn about the empowering benefits of A.I. and how it improves customer experience, employee productivity, and more.
Head of AI - Corporate, Flight Centre Travel Group
A travel technology pioneer, Adrian has over a decade of industry experience. In 2014, he co-founded the corporate travel tool SAM, a mobile AI-powered app that operates as a 24/7 virtual travel assistant, helping business travellers easily manage... |
The BIO-TIC project comprehensively examined the innovation hurdles in industrial biotechnology (IB) across Europe and formulated action plans and recommendations to overcome them. The projects is built on three pillars: an online industrial biotech community, an assessment of biomass and sustainability in industrial biotech, and an action plan for industrial biotech in Europe. As part of the action plan for industrial biotech three roadmaps to overcome barriers were developed: Market roadmap, R&D roadmap and Non-Technological roadmap.
This document provides a concise overview of main hurdles and solutions collected during the multi-stakeholders iterative process. Presented solutions are discussed in more depth within either the BIO-TIC R&D roadmap or the BIO-TIC non-technological roadmap. |
Frank G. Witebsky
Attempting to capture the excitement, the beauty, indeed the sublimity of our Sri Lanka experience in a few words is a daunting challenge. Yes, we saw all the currently-recognized endemic species and nearly all the endemic subspecies. And many were seen repetitively and extremely well. Great, of course – but there was far more to the tour than mere numbers can convey. Birding began in the attractive garden of our hotel near the airport, providing an introduction to some of the more common species. By early afternoon we were on our way to Kitulgala. By the time we got to bed, we had seen at least eight of Sri Lanka’s endemic birds, including several Layard’s Parakeets and a quite cooperative Green-billed Coucal. The next day we were in the Kitulgala Forest, where we had sublime views of a pair of Crimson-backed Woodpeckers – for me one of the highlights of the trip (and of my life!). (For another equally magnificent woodpecker, the White-naped – another trip and life highlight – we had to wait until somewhat later.) In this Forest, Deepal managed to locate a Serendib Scops Owl, a lovely and distinctive bird that we could all observe for as long as we wished – and in broad daylight! Spotting that bird seemed a nearly miraculous feat; I’m sure I could have stood within five feet of the bird for hours and never have found it myself. Among other wonders of the day were prolonged studies of a Chestnut-backed Owlet, and the first of several Spot-winged Thrushes, certainly one of the most appealing members of its large family. The next several days were spent in the Ratnapoura area, birding on the hotel grounds and in the Sinharaja Forest. One evening we had an incredible encounter with a pair of Sri Lanka Spurfowl walking on the road in front of our vehicle (yes, everyone saw them), and numerous encounters with glowing male (and intricately-patterned but hardly-glowing female) Sri Lanka Junglefowl. Should I say anything about the tiny Sri Lanka Frogmouth other than that it was sitting on its nest low over the road, entrancing in the morning light, I might not be believed. And as for Sri Lanka Magpies – on first getting a really good look at one of these large, brilliant beasts, incredibly patterned in blue, brown, red, and white, it’s hard to believe one is seeing a real bird, and not having a hallucination induced by inadvertent consumption of some psychedelic agent. Here also we had fine views of several (yes, several) Ceylon Scaly Thrushes. And of course there were also bulbuls and babblers – one of my special favorites being the Ceylon Scimitar Babbler. I might note that I’ve been fortunate enough to see quite a few trogons – but the Malabar Trogon is one of the loveliest I’ve ever encountered. Next it was on to Embilipitiya, where there were of course more wonderful birds, as well as numerous mammals, including many great (big) elephants. Then we headed for Tissa, where for me the major highlight was the one White-naped Woodpecker (a male) that we saw on the tour. A close second here were several nearby Small Pratincoles. At the park in Nuwara Eliya, despite the rain, there were two more gorgeous highlights, the abominably-named Dull Blue Flycatcher (“Glowing Blue Flycatcher” would be more accurate), and the quintessentially exquisite Kashmir Flycatcher. Let me also note that, while the beauty of Yellow-eared Bulbuls is quite obvious, fully appreciating the subtle tones of a Sri Lanka Bush Warbler requires a really good view – which we certainly had. Also in the Horton Plains, by the side of the road, in the open, during the morning, at eye level – a prolonged, unforgettable view of a male of the shy and usually crepuscular Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush. The last bird I’ll mention is the Indian Pitta; if you haven’s seen it, you need to, and if you already have, I could hardly believe that you wouldn’t want to see it again.
Of course, there was lots more. There were fascinating tours of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth in Kandy, and of the vast, ancient ruins at Polonnaruwa; it would be unforgiveable not to allow for time at these sites. And quite likely you’ve little or no idea of all that’s involved in the manufacture of tea – but you can learn in Sri Lanka. Probably you already know this, but the whole country is beautiful. Our accommodations were all fine, and there was more than enough good food to satisfy any palette. (Concentrating on food, though, could be something of a problem – as when a Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher was flitting about just outside the dining room.) Finally, the guides. They are what in my opinion make or break any tour. Deepal Warakagoda, our main guide, was unqualifiedly superb; in addition to his expertise regarding every feather and chirp of Sri Lanka birds, he is also a font of knowledge on the culture of the country. His assistant, Tharanga Herath, was a delightful and eagle-eyed wonder as well, in addition to being a superb artist. Uditha Hettige was also one of our guides for part of the tour – and not only also an astoundingly good leader as well, but in addition a gifted photographer and artist. Possibly you suspect I have exaggerated a bit here and there. I’d suggest you put me to the test, and – if you possibly can – Go! See for yourself! |
- Within a month of launch, Blur’s Blend becomes a market leader in the NFT financing sector.
- Blend successfully facilitates 21,962 loans while achieving a phenomenal $171,948 in Ethereum volume.
- The platform draws in 1,526 borrowers, illustrating its popularity and user confidence.
Blend, a recently established lending platform from Blur, has revolutionized the NFT lending industry. The blend has outperformed its rivals and turned into a dominant force in the market after only one month of operation. The platform has solidified its position as a game-changer in the field of decentralized finance by achieving a number of amazing feats.
Blend’s Rapid Development
The blend has experienced a striking increase in activity throughout its first month. An astounding $171,948 worth of Ethereum (ETH) volume was processed through the platform, demonstrating the high demand for its services. Blend also made 21,962 loans possible, giving consumers unmatched access to cash against their NFT holdings. With 1,526 people using Blend’s lending resources, this remarkable achievement has drawn a sizable number of borrowers.
Blend’s continuous increase in new lenders and borrowers over the past month is one of the most noticeable features of its success story. This growing trend indicates the platform’s capacity to draw in and keep customers. Furthermore, it is solidifying its standing as a top option in the crowded NFT lending market. Blend has successfully tapped into the rising need for NFT-related financial services by cultivating a solid and increasing user base.
Astonishing Blend’s Support
Blend’s contribution to Blur’s overall volume is the most impressive example of the company’s success. Blend has now controlled close to 50% of Blur’s overall trading volume in just one month. This significant percentage illustrates the platform’s profound influence on the parent company’s operations and further substantiates Blend’s crucial position in Blur’s overall growth strategy.
The tremendous successes Blend has had in its brief history can be ascribed to the platform’s user-centric design and simple interface have unquestionably been helpful in drawing in both lenders and borrowers. The blend is successful in overcoming one of the reasons for the entrance into the complicated world of decentralized finance. However, it offers a seamless and user-friendly experience.
The blend is positioned to become a key player in the NFT lending market thanks to its upward trajectory. The platform is positioned to increase its market share as it develops and improves its offerings. The blend is changing the NFT lending environment and opening the way for wider adoption of decentralized finance in the world of digital assets.
Recommended For You:
Blend Emerges as Leading NFT Lending Platform With $225 Million Volume |
332 crypto investors read this
"Crystal Token is a cryptocurrency token innovating the field of smart investments with the novel concept of Virtual Staking and different investment plans to satisfy the needs of all investors who desire a solid and constant passive income source.
Crystal Token embraces the rise of crypto currencies and of services aiming to provide customers with a stable passive income. The birth of Bitconnect in 2016 has been seminal in this field, offering a lending platform providing this type of investment. Following the success of BitConnect, a consistent number of crypto currencies offering lending services have been released in the last part of the 2017. However, very few of them survived, and, starting from BitConnect itself, have been abruptly shut down causing consistent losses for many investors."
Raised Amount Unreported: contact us to update this information
Browse more ICOs |
Are you constantly confused about your body shape? Do you wonder how to determine your figure type? With so many different shapes and sizes, it can be overwhelming to know where you fit in. But fear not, because figuring out your body shape is easier than you think. By taking a few simple measurements and comparing them to common body types, you can gain a better understanding of your unique figure. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of identifying your figure type, so you can feel confident and stylish in your own skin.
To determine your figure type, you can start by assessing your body shape and proportions. Common figure types include hourglass, pear, apple, and athletic. To identify your figure type, you can use a tape measure to take measurements of your bust, waist, and hips. Alternatively, you can also look at your body shape in the mirror and compare it to the descriptions of each figure type. It’s important to remember that every body is unique and there is no one “ideal” figure type. Instead, focus on loving and accepting your body as it is.
Understanding Body Types
Identifying the Basic Types
When it comes to identifying your figure type, it’s important to first understand the basic types that exist. These include the hourglass, apple, pear, rectangle, and inverted triangle.
The hourglass figure is characterized by a narrow waist and wider hips, giving the appearance of an hourglass shape. This figure type is often associated with curves and is considered to be the most feminine of all the body types.
The apple figure is characterized by a larger upper body, with wider shoulders and a smaller lower body. This figure type is often associated with a pear-shaped torso and thinner legs.
The pear figure is characterized by a smaller upper body and larger lower body, with wider hips and thinner legs. This figure type is often associated with an hourglass shape, but with less definition in the waist area.
The rectangle figure is characterized by a straight up and down body shape, with little to no curves. This figure type is often associated with a boyish or androgynous appearance.
The inverted triangle figure is characterized by broad shoulders and a narrow waist, with a larger lower body. This figure type is often associated with a masculine appearance.
One of the most important steps in understanding your figure type is to assess yourself. This involves taking accurate measurements of your body, analyzing your shape, and paying attention to how different clothing styles look on you.
Key Body Measurements
The first step in assessing yourself is to take accurate measurements of your body. These measurements will give you a better understanding of your proportions and help you identify your key measurements. Some of the most important measurements to take include:
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape measure level and parallel to the ground.
- Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your waist, keeping the tape measure level and parallel to the ground.
- Hip: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, keeping the tape measure level and parallel to the ground.
- Shoulder: Measure from the top of your shoulder, down to your armhole, and then horizontally across your shoulder blade.
- Sleeve: Measure from your shoulder to your wrist.
Once you have taken your key measurements, it’s time to analyze your shape. This involves looking at your body as a whole and identifying any distinctive features, such as a defined waist or broad shoulders.
For example, if you have a defined waist and broad shoulders, you may have an hourglass figure. On the other hand, if you have a more rectangular shape, with little definition in your waist or hips, you may have an apple-shaped body.
Finally, pay attention to how different clothing styles look on you. This can give you a better understanding of your figure type and help you identify what styles flatter your body.
For example, if you have an hourglass figure, you may find that form-fitting dresses and tops highlight your curves, while if you have an apple-shaped body, you may find that looser, more flowing clothing is more flattering.
Overall, assessing yourself is an important step in understanding your figure type. By taking accurate measurements, analyzing your shape, and paying attention to how different clothing styles look on you, you can gain a better understanding of your body and make more informed choices about your wardrobe.
Body Shape Influences Fashion Choices
Clothing for Hourglass Figures
When it comes to fashion, knowing your figure type is crucial in making the right choices. If you have an hourglass figure, you are in luck as this body type is often considered the most flattering. An hourglass figure has a defined waist, with the bust and hips proportionate to the waist.
Dresses and skirts are a staple for hourglass figures as they elongate the legs and emphasize the waist. A-line dresses and skirts are particularly flattering as they create the illusion of an hourglass figure. Additionally, dresses with a cinched waist draw attention to the hourglass shape.
Tops and blouses should be fitted at the bust and then loosely fitted through the waist and hips. This creates the illusion of a smaller waist and emphasizes the hourglass shape. Tops with a bow at the waist also draw attention to the hourglass figure.
Accentuating the waist is key for hourglass figures. High-waisted pants and skirts, or tops with a belted waist, create the illusion of a smaller waist and emphasize the hourglass shape.
In conclusion, an hourglass figure is considered one of the most flattering figure types, and with the right clothing choices, it can be accentuated even more. Dresses and skirts that elongate the legs and emphasize the waist, tops and blouses that are fitted at the bust and loosely fitted through the waist and hips, and accentuating the waist with high-waisted pants and skirts or tops with a belted waist are all great choices for hourglass figures.
Clothing for Apple Figures
Apple figures are characterized by their defined waistline and curvaceous upper body. When it comes to dressing for this figure type, it’s important to choose clothing that highlights the upper body while creating the illusion of a smaller waistline. Here are some tips for dressing for an apple figure:
- Dressing for the upper body: Apple figures have a larger bust and shoulders, so it’s important to choose tops and dresses that are cut to flatter these areas. Avoid clothing that emphasizes the midsection, such as tight-fitting or tube tops, as they can create the appearance of a larger waistline. Instead, opt for tops that are cut to enhance the bust and shoulders, such as sweetheart necklines, scoop necks, and V-necks.
- A-line dresses and skirts: A-line dresses and skirts are a great choice for apple figures as they create the illusion of a smaller waistline while highlighting the upper body. These dresses and skirts are cut to flatter the hips and thighs, creating a more balanced look.
- Tops and blouses: When choosing tops and blouses, apple figures should look for those that add volume to the upper body, such as billowy blouses, ruffled tops, and oversized sweaters. These tops can help balance out the proportions of an apple figure by creating the illusion of a smaller waistline. Additionally, choosing tops with intricate detailing, such as lace or embroidery, can add visual interest to the upper body and draw attention away from the midsection.
Clothing for Pear Figures
Pear figures are characterized by a lower half that is fuller than the upper half. When choosing clothing, it is important to balance the proportions of the body to create a more flattering look. Here are some tips for dressing a pear figure:
- Balancing the lower half: To balance out the lower half of a pear figure, it is important to wear clothes that emphasize the waist. High-waisted pants, skirts, and dresses can help to create the illusion of a smaller waist and draw attention away from the hips.
- Tops and blouses: Tops and blouses that are cut for a loose, boxy shape can help to balance out the proportions of a pear figure. Avoid tops that are too tight or clingy, as they can emphasize the lower half of the body.
- A-line dresses and skirts: A-line dresses and skirts are a great choice for pear figures, as they create the illusion of a smaller waist and draw attention away from the hips. These types of garments also create the appearance of a more balanced silhouette.
Clothing for Rectangle Figures
As a rectangle figure, you have a boyish or androgynous body shape, characterized by a straight or slightly inverted triangle body shape. To flatter your figure, it’s important to create curves and avoid clothing that emphasizes your shoulders or waist. Here are some tips on what to wear:
Tops and Blouses
- Opt for tops and blouses that add volume and texture to your upper body, such as those with ruffles, bows, or pleats.
- Avoid clothing that emphasizes your shoulders, such as shoulder pads or tops with darts, as this can create an unflattering silhouette.
- Choose tops with V-necks or scoop necks to elongate your neck and draw attention away from your shoulders.
A-line Dresses and Skirts
- A-line dresses and skirts are ideal for rectangle figures as they create the illusion of curves and add volume to your hips and thighs.
- Avoid clothing that is too tight or form-fitting, as this can accentuate your lack of curves.
- Opt for dresses and skirts with patterns or colors that draw attention to your lower body, such as vertical stripes or bold floral prints.
By following these tips, you can create a flattering and feminine silhouette that accentuates your natural beauty and unique features.
Clothing for Inverted Triangle Figures
- Balancing the upper body
Inverted triangle figures typically have a narrower shoulder area and wider hips, creating an inverted triangle shape. When choosing clothing, it’s essential to balance out the upper body by drawing attention away from the shoulders and emphasizing the waistline. One way to achieve this is by wearing tops with ruffles, pleats, or a belted waistline, which can create the illusion of a wider shoulder area and define the waistline.
V-necklines are a great choice for inverted triangle figures as they can draw attention away from the shoulders and create the illusion of a longer, leaner neck. This type of neckline can also help to balance out the upper body by elongating the neck and drawing the eye down towards the waistline.
- A-line dresses and skirts
A-line dresses and skirts are a versatile choice for inverted triangle figures as they can create the illusion of a balanced figure. The A-line shape is designed to skim over the hips and thighs, creating a flattering silhouette that can balance out the narrower shoulders. When choosing an A-line dress or skirt, look for one that is fitted at the waist and flares out towards the hips, which can help to define the waistline and create the illusion of a more balanced figure.
1. What is a figure type?
A figure type refers to the shape and proportions of a person’s body. It is determined by factors such as genetics, body composition, and lifestyle habits.
2. How can I determine my figure type?
One way to determine your figure type is to look at your body shape in the mirror. You can also compare your measurements to standard figure types, such as hourglass, pear, or apple.
3. What are the different figure types?
There are many different figure types, including hourglass, pear, apple, and athletic. Each type has its own unique characteristics and may be more or less common depending on genetics and lifestyle habits.
4. Is it possible to change my figure type?
In some cases, it may be possible to change your figure type through diet and exercise. However, it’s important to remember that genetics play a role in determining body shape, and some people may not be able to achieve a drastic change in their figure type.
5. Can clothing choices affect my figure type?
Yes, clothing choices can affect the way your figure type is perceived. For example, certain cuts of clothing may flatter a pear-shaped body more than an apple-shaped body. It’s important to choose clothing that flatters your unique figure type and makes you feel confident. |
When Barack Obama nominated Timothy Geithner for Treasury Secretary and appointed Larry Summers to be the chief presidential economics adviser, I became very worried. Summers had a hand in some of Bill Clinton’s deregulation policies that have contributed to our current economic problems, and Geithner was a key architect of the Wall Street bailout last fall.
Here and at other blogs, some commenters urged me to “give Obama a chance–he hasn’t even been inaugurated yet.”
Geithner confirmed my worst fears today when he rolled out the new-and-improved bailout plan (using the second $350 billion tranche from the Troubled Assets Relief Program). Economist James Galbraith came up with the name Bad Assets Relief Fund (BARF) to describe Geithner’s plan.
Other bloggers have already explained why Geithner’s proposal is an unimaginably pricey gift to Wall Street bankers at the expense of the public interest. This diary by MyDD user bobswern hits all the main points, drawing on a front-page story in the New York Times and other sources.
Writing about how Geithner prevailed over presidential advisers like David Axelrod, who wanted to attach more strings to the taxpayer money Wall Street bankers would receive, David Sirota observed,
Interestingly, the divide inside the administration seems to hearken back to a divide discussed very early on in the formation of the administration – the one whereby progressives were put in strictly political positions, and zombie conservatives were put in the policymaking positions. In this case, more progressive politicos like Axelrod was overruled by corporate cronies like Geithner.
The good news is that at least there seems to be something of a debate inside the administration, however tepid. The bad news is what I and others predicted: namely, that progressives seem to have been ghettoized into the political/salesmanship jobs, the conservative zombies shaping policy aren’t interested in having any debate with them. Worse, we’re now learning that those zombies are as rigidly ideological as their initial policies seemed to suggest.
I stand by my prediction that Geithner will turn out to be one of Barack Obama’s worst appointments. I can’t fathom why Obama wants to “own” the very worst aspects of the Bush administration’s failed Wall Street bailout, while also depriving the government of cash needed for other domestic priorities.
The stock market fell sharply today, perhaps because investors have no confidence in Geithner’s scheme and perhaps because the compromise stimulus bill that passed the U.S. Senate came straight out of bizarro world (do click that link, you’ll enjoy it).
I hope Obama will recognize his mistake and let Geithner and Summers go within a year or so, but they’re already poised to do plenty of damage to his administration.
Speaking of bad appointments, isn’t it amazing that Obama didn’t even make Senator Judd Gregg of New Hampshire promise to vote for the stimulus bill in exchange for being named Commerce Secretary? Why would you put someone in a cabinet position with influence over economic policy if that person doesn’t even support the president’s stimulus plan?
Apparently Obama’s also considering making a lobbyist for the Chamber of Commerce the main presidential adviser on judicial appointments. I’ve long anticipated that judges appointed by Obama would be corporate-friendly, pro-choice moderates in the Stephen Breyer mode, but I never imagined that a Chamber of Commerce lobbyist would be in a position to recommend only judges who would favor business interests.
If Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen becomes Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Obama-Biden magnet is coming off my car. |
Getting To Block Island
For more information about high-speed ferry service from Galilee (Point Judith) to the island, please go to http://www.blockislandferry.com to contact Interstate Navigation.
The high speed from Point Judith runs seasonally and drops off in Old Harbor. Interstate Navigation also offers ferry service from Newport, RI and Fall River MA to Block Island.
To find out about traditional ferry service from Point Judith, Rhode Island, check out http://www.blockislandferry.com
This year round ferry service takes about one hour and drops off in Old Harbor. This is the only car ferry service to Block Island.
From New London, Connecticut, go to http://www.goblockisland.com
This is a highspeed passenger ferry that drops off in Old Harbor.
New England Airlines: http://www.block-island.com/nea
Regular flights between Westerly, Rhode Island and Block Island
Montauk, NY (on the tip of Long Island) offers passenger ferry service in season to New Harbor.
Visit http://www.vikingfleet.com for more information. |
All through the COVID-19 pandemic, most companies scrambled to make functioning with a dispersed workforce much more workable. From Zoom to Skype to Google Workspace and Microsoft 365, firms adopted remedies that created operating from house extra seamless. For a lot of firms, however, this fast adoption made a patchwork of solutions, which can trigger IT departments and conclusion buyers complications and setbacks.
Of course, patchwork IT has been close to long before the COVID-19 pandemic. We usually see patchwork methods through mergers and acquisitions when 1 firm makes use of a established of apps and productiveness suites and the other firm employs another. Jointly, they need to make this mismatched group of methods operate.
Resolving patchwork IT is not an uncomplicated feat. It involves thorough setting up, imagined and execution. Having said that, by next these upcoming methods, MSPs and IT gurus can seamlessly resolve patchwork methods for organizations.
Appear at patchwork IT holistically
Each individual IT condition has rewards and cons. For patchwork IT, the negatives generally outweigh the professionals. One particular of the benefits of a patchwork of solutions is that you can pick the “best of the best” to deal with your operational requires. Even so, this tactic commonly prospects to a circumstance exactly where remedies cannot connect with some others.
For case in point, you could have Cisco firewalls, routers and VPNs even though also using VMware. This could not be this sort of a lousy thing, but the methods don’t always speak to every other. And every single one has different management consoles.
Consolidating answers provides functionality and can make them a lot easier to control. By optimizing patchwork techniques, providers can clean out operations, stay clear of close-consumer confusion and help you save revenue on redundancies.
Consolidation is key
Resolving patchwork IT often signifies consolidation. To consolidate properly, MSPs and IT departments must take into account these methods:
- Evaluate: Very first, companies should really evaluate their inside and external wants to identify which platforms and purposes they will need. For instance, if cloud-based document collaboration is vital, providers may possibly take into consideration using Google Workspace or Microsoft 365. Assessing your operational prerequisites allows you recognize which remedies you need to have and which you can are living with no.
- Discover: Pinpoint which options aren’t serving functions or have turn into redundant. For example, a firm may have adopted Skype for the duration of the pandemic, then recognized interior teams only use Zoom and Microsoft Teams for video clip calls. Eradicating Skype frees up space for other crucial programs.
- Execute: When it is time to consolidate, you want the appropriate equipment to be certain methods are correctly eliminated, migrated and saved to steer clear of problems and misplaced knowledge. Working with the correct migration software can be certain you shift your data safely and properly.
Migrating to take care of patchwork IT
In advance of a migration, you really should consider a couple of things. Do you have a full photograph of what info and methods need to be moved? What quantity of data wants to be migrated? The place does it will need to be moved? Do you have a migration instrument that can effectively tackle this challenge?
Stakeholder comments is also crucial. You want to be certain everyone is on board with the improvements adhering to a migration. For illustration, if organizations associated in an M&A will need to opt for in between Google Workspace and Microsoft 365, get input from workforce to ascertain which solution performs finest for them.
Finishing a migration with no consulting stakeholders hazards confusion and operational setbacks. Personnel might have to learn how to use new devices, which can lead to irritation and disruption in efficiency. This is why organizations ought to normally deploy transform administration and be certain close customers have the necessary sources and training to use the new answers when the patchwork setting is fixed.
Lastly, with any migration, you often want to mitigate challenges. A single way to do this is to use the correct migration tool. To make certain all your facts and facts are moved adequately, deploy a migration device crafted to meet the measurement, timeline and specifics of the migration. This prevents setbacks and makes it possible for for a seamless migration. As a result, companies will not have to stress about misplaced data or the migration failing, making it possible for conclusion consumers to entry their mail and files in their new destinations.
Avoiding patchwork IT in the future
After a patchwork of answers is fixed, it’s important to prevent it from reoccurring. To do this, MSPs and IT industry experts must look at what we connect with the Five Pillars of Place of work Maturity:
- Material Products and services: Disorganized information are a popular ache place for end customers of patchwork units. By digitizing files and functions, firms can reduce actual physical paperwork and employee aggravation as they research for important paperwork. With material products and services, employees can accessibility files from everywhere, conserving time, funds and sources.
- Hyperautomation: Leverage applications that help hyperautomation so employees can reallocate time to a lot more important tasks. Hyperautomation can enhance staff processes and make place for much more partaking perform, reducing risk and escalating efficiency.
- Unified Interaction and Collaboration: 1 of the most important results in of patchwork IT is getting different applications that do the exact factor. Determining amongst various tools can make groups much less productive. If workers are experiencing these ache factors, you want interaction, collaboration and conference tools to be certain employees are effective, engaged and communicative in serious time.
- Emerging Purposes and Technologies: New engineering can enable you depart legacy infrastructure and modernize your application stack. With rising applications and technological innovation, you can assure your corporation and employees are agile in the deal with of disruptions and fully geared up for the foreseeable future of get the job done.
Going through patchwork IT head-on
Almost 50 % of IT leaders (48%) claimed their corporation prepared to do a significant IT update to streamline patchwork units within the future calendar year. Nearly a 3rd (29%) had been already in the midst of a migration.
Now is the time to deal with your patchwork IT complications. By subsequent the methods outlined over, you can resolve your patchwork method and reduce it from reoccurring in the long term, building smoother operations and end-consumer productivity to preserve your organization flourishing.
By Stacey Farrar, product or service marketing and advertising supervisor at BitTitan, and Christopher Chesley, North American electronic place of work expansion leader at SoftwareOne
Source website link |
Why 2020 taught us that it is much better to be lucky than smart.
It’s amazing how quickly fear turns to greed. In March, we saw the depth of human despair as the virus took hold of the entire world. In November, we had the biggest month for equities since 1928! We all know what happened the year after, but the hope is that 2021 will be different. The US elections are behind us (sort of), Brexit is over (almost), and there is a vaccine (allegedly) to fight the virus. For sure there is light at the end of the tunnel for the first time in a long while. So, looking back upon a tumultuous, trying, and testing year, what are the lessons we should take away from 2020?
For one, we are all the same. COVID-19 did not discriminate amongst people, sectors or regions. It could happen to anyone, anywhere and at any time. All of a sudden, there was no more of the things we used to do and had always taken for granted. No more going to the shops, no more travelling, and nowhere to go out and eat. It changed things, made us look differently at our lives, and all that we went through may lead to a permanent transformation of our societies. Can you even imagine a life without Netflix, Amazon, Ocado, Deliveroo, or whatever it is we now do from the comfort of our homes?
Two, it seems all that I learned over many years about finance and economics was for nought. The risks and rewards have been so utterly skewed this year, that any model seeking answers in the way things make sense no longer works. We have had more bankruptcies than in the last financial crisis, the highest number of unemployed since the Great Depression, and we created more debt in the history of the world. Yet, financial markets are making record highs, valuations are through the roof and interest rates are at all-time lows. With the benefit of hindsight, maybe textbooks in twenty years’ time will explain why pigs do indeed fly. For now, it is highly advisable to stop trying to make sense of it all. Lest we forget, someone will have to pay for it all.
Finally, being clever has got nothing to do with it. Even the best restaurant, with brilliant food, awesome staff and a great business plan, went bankrupt this year. There simply is no way to prepare for everything, and there is only the right place or the wrong time. I guess, nothing could sum up 2020 more than the rise of Tesla, which brought much joy for people who thought a stock split means there is a discount in the share price. Meanwhile, the smart money lost more than $25bn trying to go the other way. Ignorance has truly never been more bliss and a Happy New Year to you all. |
Hiring activity remains strong, but the focus has shifted. Additionally, the AI craze is reaching a fever pitch in private equity.
These and more insights come from our Q2 2023 BluWave Insights Report. The proprietary data used to compile this report comes from the projects we work on with our 500+ PE firm clients to get a bird’s eye view of the market.
Other key findings from Q2 2023 include:
- Demand for artificial intelligence tools boosted Business Intelligence, Analytics & AI into the top 10 of value creation services for the first time in three years
- Strategy, revenue growth and technology-related initiatives are on the rise
- Deal flow remains slow, but that’s expected to change in the second half of the year
Learn more about the insights we gleaned from Q2: |
Reader's guide to critical appraisal of cohort studies: 2. Assessing potential for confoundingBMJ 2005; 330 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.330.7497.960 (Published 21 April 2005) Cite this as: BMJ 2005;330:960
- Muhammad Mamdani, senior scientist1,
- Kathy Sykora, senior biostatistician1,
- Ping Li, analyst1,
- Sharon-Lise T Normand, professor of health care policy (biostatistics)2,
- David L Streiner, professor3,
- Peter C Austin, senior scientist1,
- Paula A Rochon, senior scientist4,
- Geoffrey M Anderson, chair in health management strategies ([email protected])5
- 1Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, ON Canada
- 2Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- 3Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
- 4Kunin-Lunenfeld Applied Research Unit, Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care, Toronto, ON, Canada
- 5Department of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Correspondence to: G M Anderson, Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Accepted 18 February 2005
Although confounding is an important problem of cohort studies, its effects can be minimised to enable valid comparison
In cohort studies, who does or does not receive an intervention is determined by practice patterns, personal choice, or policy decisions. This raises the possibility that the intervention and comparison groups may differ in characteristics that affect the study outcome, a problem called selection bias. If these characteristics have independent effects on the observed outcome in each group, they will create differences in outcomes between the groups apart from those related to the interventions being assessed. This effect is known as confounding.1 In the first paper in the series we dealt with the design and use of cohort studies and how to identify selection bias.2 This paper focuses on the definition and assessment of confounders.
What is a confounder?
For a characteristic to be a confounder in a particular study, it must meet two criteria.1 The first is that it must be related to the outcome in terms of prognosis or susceptibility. For example, in the study of the association between antipsychotic use and hip fracture that we considered in the first paper,2 age is known to be related to risk of hip fracture and therefore has the potential to be a confounder.
The second criterion that defines a confounder is that the distribution of the characteristic is different in the groups being compared. It can differ in terms of either the mean or the degree of variation or variability in that characteristic. For example, for age to be a confounder in a cohort study, either the average age or the variation in the age in the groups being compared would have to be different. Assessing variation as well as average values is important because groups can have the same average value … |
There are a few BMWs that get a ton of attention. Cars like the 3 Series and 7 Series get incredible amounts of attention and publicity, as they always have. There are a couple of newcomers as well, like the 2 Series and 4 Series that are quickly becoming BMW’s darlings and the favorites of the media and enthusiasts alike. But there are some BMWs that don’t get so much love and are actually subject to quite a bit of scrutiny.
Most of the Bavarian SUVs are typically considered to be very un-BMW like and therefore not very loved, the i3 gets some flak for breaking from the BMW norm and mention the 2 Series Tourers to any BMW enthusiast and you’ll watch them foam at the mouth a bit. So certain BMWs are subjects of aggravation to many BMW enthusiasts, but not all of them are deserving of it, maybe none of them. So which BMWs don’t deserve all of the hate and negativity?
One BMW that’s come under quite a bit of scrutiny lately is the BMW X4. Of all the SUVs that BMW makes, there’s a good enough business argument for all of them to keep the enthusiasts quiet. But the X4 makes many BMW fans unhappy, due to its aid in the dilution of the BMW brand. When BMW announced the BMW X4 M40i variant, enthusiasts were even more upset, for BMW putting its M badge on such a supposed heathen. But the X4 isn’t a bad car, it’s actually quite fun to drive, looks pretty good and has enough performance to where a BMW badge.
The 2 Series Tourers are cars that aren’t the typical BMW. Neither of them are particularly fast, handle very well or feel like real BMWs. Oh, and there’s also that pesky front-wheel drive business. But we all know why BMW makes them, we know there’s good reason for them and yet many of us still hate them. They are probably the most hated of all BMWs. The hate for these two is the most understandable, because they really break away from the BMW mold.
The BMW i3 is one of the Bimmers that definitely gets unjust negativity. It’s also one of the BMWs that gets hate from two different sides. There are a great many BMW enthusiasts who dislike the i3 because it isn’t an E30 M3 and they feel that real BMWs have I6 engines and manual gearboxes, not electric motors. There is also the group that feel that the BMW i3 isn’t a good enough electric car, by not having a far enough range or enough power. It’s one of BMW’s most controversial cars, but if there is and BMW that is probably the least deserving of flak, it’s the i3. The i3 is a technological marvel and something that should be appreciated for what it is, not what people wished it was.
So there are plenty of BMWs that are disliked by the majority of the BMW fanbase, but which is least deserving of them? Which BMW is the most under appreciated BMW currently on the market? |
BMW is offering us a glimpse of the upcoming Concept i4, the concept version of the brand’s upcoming electric sedan, which will be officially unveiled next week when the 2020 Geneva Motor Show kicks off.
We already knew this was coming. Prior to the official premiere and market introduction scheduled for 2021, BMW will provide us a hint of the new i4 electric Gran Coupe model with the help of a revealing concept, that is said to be fairly close to the serial production version.
BMW will lift the veil off the Concept i4 at the beginning of March in Geneva. The exterior design of the electric concept car is evolved from the BMW i Vision Dynamics concept of 2017 and is translated into a philosophy that is close to the final styling of the series i4 model.
Coming in 2021 and underpinned by the forthcoming G26 4 Series Gran Coupe, the new electric model in the BMW i portfolio will be powered by an electric motor making up no less than 390 kW / 530 PS (523 hp). That’s expected to give the car a total range of around 600 kilometers (372 miles) on the WLTP cycle.
The new i4 will also feature the Gen5 electric battery architecture, which promises a compact architecture, a boost in overall output and increased running efficiency which ensures an attractive all-electric range.
Coming down to the design, the teaser videos reveal a classy Gran Coupe silhouette which is beautifully formed in liquid metal. Compared to the current F36 4 Series, the overall inspiration is retained, yet the rear shoulders appear to be positioned higher. The horizontal section of the tail gate is shorter and the general shape of the car is now more athletic and genuinely resembling a 2-door coupe.
While the front end remains unrevealed at the moment, we can speculate the radiator grille is designed in BMW i fashion, covering the entire height of the front fascia and the kidney are separated. As well, the BMW i specific exterior individualization features will further enable a differentiation from the standard ICE-powered G26 4 Series.
We’ll see the BMW Concept i4 soon enough, as it will make its debut at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show next week. So stay tuned. |
Lottery games date back to ancient times. As far as history goes, the first lottery games were held in Ancient China, where they helped fund important government projects such as the Great Wall of China. Even during the Roman Empire, lottery games were held to entertain guests at dinner parties. In fact, the first commercial lottery was organized by Emperor Augustus and the proceeds were used to rebuild the City of Rome. This is a good example of the evolution of lotteries.
Today, most states operate their own online lottery websites. These websites provide the primary utility of viewing the lottery results and locating where to purchase tickets. However, a select group of these lotteries have expanded their service offerings by introducing Instant Games. These Instant Games, which simulate casino games and allow players to bet real money on them, are available on the web and via mobile apps. If you’re interested in playing lottery games, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with these laws.
To get started, you’ll need to download the lottery app or log onto a lottery website. Once you’ve created an account, you’ll have access to the game selection area. Look for games with a lot of choices. The details about each game should be clear, including how much a ticket costs and what criteria you need to win. You should also look for game results and the date of the next drawing. If you’re lucky, you’ll receive a check if you win.
Once you’ve downloaded the app, you’ll have access to the majority of mainstream lottery systems around the world. You can choose from many different states, countries, and lottery games. In some countries, you can download the app for a more complete experience. A lot of lottery apps can be used on mobile devices. You can also play the lottery games that are played in other countries. Having access to these online games is a great way to stay connected to your local lottery.
Online lottery sites are no different than land-based distribution points. You’ll be able to buy your ticket, check your results, and claim your prize. The only difference is that online lottery sites can be safer because they’re licensed by your state’s gaming authority. There are also more games than just the lottery, such as keno and lottery syndicates. If you’re looking for a lottery site, look for the ones that provide secure payment options. This will ensure that your money is safe and that your winnings are legitimate.
Many people are under the mistaken belief that random events have an effect on each other. This is called the gambler’s fallacy. Lottery enthusiasts believe that past events affect future events, and therefore try to find hot or cold numbers to play. That’s where the term “hot” comes in. Many lottery enthusiasts think that the number they bought in a lottery draw in the past has some effect. It’s not possible to predict which numbers will come up, but it doesn’t hurt to try! |
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A Unique Selling Point or Unique Selling Proposition (USP), is the heart of what makes your business stand out over your competitors. Now is a great time to delve deeper into your business strategy, and have a think about your USP.
Consider the following questions:
💙 Who is your business for?
💙 What drives you to offer the products/services you do?
💙 How do you want to make a unique impact?
💙 What makes you different from your competitors?
Finding your unique selling point will help you to define your company’s mission and vision.
Communicating your USP within online marketing is really important. Being clear about your USP helps consumers to differentiate between the variety of options available to them in the market, helping them to make the right decision with what to spend their money on.
For some businesses, identifying a USP will be easier than others. If you’re struggling to think of your USP, drop us a message on our Instagram and we will be sure to help. |
A trend floor with showroom appeal, feel-good fitting rooms and simple payment via an app – these are just a few of the highlights that await shoppers in bonprix’s new Hamburg-based pilot store. In keeping with the “fashion connect” motto, the store unites all the advantages of high street retail with the comfort of online shopping. And at the heart of everything: the customer’s own requirements. The result is an entirely unique, digitally driven shopping experience. At today’s #FASHIONTECH BERLIN and for the first time, bonprix reveales more details about its experimental concept. The pilot store in Hamburg’s prominent Moenckebergstrasse is set to open on 14 February. Until then, the brand’s own microsite provides shoppers with a sneak preview of what to expect. The “fashion connect” concept was developed as part of an innovation project in close collaboration with leading experts from the Otto Group.
Back in October, bonprix announced a radical new retail concept promising a seamless shopping experience with real added value. Pioneering technical innovation has done away with the weaknesses of traditional retail, such as untidy shelves, cluttered floor areas, dingy fitting rooms and long queues at the checkout. The international fashion brand is now focusing consistently on its customers, digitalisation and its own adaptability.
“We know what appeals to our customers and this way we can present them with the latest trends in a comfortable and inspiring environment,” explained Rien Jansen, Managing Director and Head of Purchasing, Marketing & Retail at bonprix Handelsgesellschaft. To ensure everything runs smoothly the customer’s entire visit is app-assisted. At every stage bonprix uses technical innovation – from checking in on arrival, to selecting and trying on their favourite pieces, all the way through to easy payment options. “We’ve revolutionised shopping so it’s a choice, not a chore,” Jansen continues.
Shopping with the app
At the heart of the pilot store is bonprix’s enhanced app. It acts as a personal shopping assistant, guiding the customer through their visit and designed to be used as an in-store remote control. After checking in, the customer can scan products and select the correct size. Items are then added to a virtual shopping bag so they can be picked and hung in a fitting room ready to try on. Real life fashion assistants are also on hand to help newbies use the app, and offer help and advice in the fitting room area.
“Whether we use them for messaging or for online shopping, our phones are omnipresent these days,” says Markus Fuchshofen. “And that’s exactly why we’ve afforded them a central role in our pilot store.” As Managing Director and Head of E-Commerce, Sales Germany & Brand, Fuchshofen has helped transform bonprix into one of Germany’s most profitable online shops. He now brings his expertise to the new project. “The manner in which we have consistently digitalised the shopping process remains unique in the retail sector,” he continues.
A fresh look at fashion
One highlight of bonprix’s new pilot store is the trend floor. Gone are the days of untidy shelves where customers are left rummaging for the right size. Here, every single garment and accessory is showcased as part of bonprix’s inspiring style worlds. As well as allowing a clear overview, this “one item presentation” lends the store a generous showroom character where customers can browse the latest looks in a relaxed atmosphere. The “fashion connect” concept is aimed at style-savvy women aged 30+ and features popular pieces from bonprix’s younger, more on-trend brands Bodyflirt and Rainbow.
Feel-good fitting rooms
To make trying on clothes more fun bonprix has also developed a brand new fitting room experience. After items have been scanned, they are picked and hung in a fitting room ready for the customer. Meanwhile, shoppers can relax with a refreshing drink at one of two in-store fashion bars. Once everything has been prepared, the customer is invited to their personal fitting room. As well as being more generously sized, the rooms are well ventilated and offer a choice of four mood lighting settings. A large screen displays the contents of the bonprix app and shows the next steps. If the customer needs a different size, they can order it directly to their fitting room. And anyone requiring help or advice can summon a fashion assistant at the touch of a button.
As the customer is free to select their preferred method of payment, there are no long queues either. Once the customer leaves the fitting room with the items they want, the app uses state-of-the-art RFID technology to automatically update their shopping bag. Shoppers can use the app to pay by PayPal, or head to the check-out with a debit card, credit card or cash. There’s no need to wait to have any security tags removed either.
The “learning” store
The “fashion connect” concept is more than just a flagship store for bonprix. It’s an experimental shopping lab. After two years of designing and testing, the ongoing improvement of the shopping experience will remain the focus long beyond the big opening. Additional features, such as personalised product suggestions, will be rolled out over time. “We like to look and learn so we can integrate any insights and continually improve the store,” reveals Daniel Füchtenschnieder, Head of bonprix Retail GmbH and responsible for developing and implementing the concept. “By doing so, we aim to keep things fresh and interesting for our customers.”
The project also enjoys high priority within the Otto Group. “The shopping experience and face-to-face advice are still the USPs of traditional retail,” Sven Seidel, Head of Multichannel Retail in the Otto Group, explains. “However, to remain profitable in the future it’s essential we harness the opportunities that digitalisation offers so we can integrate more digital, consumer-oriented services into offline retail. The Otto Group is currently testing a range of concepts. The experimental strategy bonprix is pursuing with “fashion connect” is one of our most innovative.”
More information about “fashion connect”
Image film: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rfv_KTx_XW4
Animated infographic: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZDh3tiZOa8Y
Images: https://en.bonprix.de/corporate/press/ or at request |
Collaborative working & effective communication.
Collaborative working and effective communication are two of our core values and are key to delivering successful projects. These values are most beneficial in delivering joint ventures with our partners.
Our people are committed to delivering the best level of service for our clients whilst leaving a legacy in the communities we work in. Sharing common objectives along with passion, drive, and risk, we pool together expertise and resource from all stakeholders to deliver quality projects collaboratively.
The Benefits of Joint Ventures.
The benefits of Joint Venture can be endless, we noted some highlights below:
1. Collaborative working
2. Greater resources from a wider pool
3. Share expertise and experience
4. Share risks and costs
5. Vested interest from all stakeholders
6. Opportunity to get difficult or larger projects progressed. |
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Pacemaker (CRT-P)
Intervention Made Intelligent
The INTUA CRT-P is an advanced system that offers the ability to reposition leads electronically and to monitor respiration, weight, blood pressure and diagnostics.
Clinical Benefits for You and Your Patients.
Automatic Daily Monitoring
INTUA offers Automatic Daily Monitoring with the LATITUDE™ NXT Patient Management System, to improve clinic efficiency and provide a higher level of care for your device patients. LATITUDE checks device status with no interaction from the patient and enables earlier arrhythmia detection through improved patient compliance.
INTUA features Electronic Repositioning with 6 pacing vectors to help avoid LV lead revisions. Published results from the ELECTION study1 demonstrated that >95% of patients with a Boston Scientific CRT device featuring Electronic Repositioning and a Boston Scientific bipolar lead, were free of phrenic nerve stimulation (PNS) at implant and required no re-operations due to PNS at 6-month follow-up.
HF PERSPECTIV™ System
HF PERSPECTIV System is a suite of diagnostics including Respiratory Rate Trend (RRT) which allows you to measure and track your patient’s respiration; Heart Rate Variability (HRV) footprint; SDANN; Autonomic Balance Monitor and heart rate trend showing long-term maximum, minimum and average heart rate.
SmartDelay® AV Delay Optimization
SmartDelay customizes paced and sensed AV delays with the goal of creating electrical fusion to maximize hemodynamic function. |
Your Guide to Being a Professional Photographer
In the ever-evolving world of commercial photography, where first impressions matter most, professional headshot photographers play a crucial role in helping individuals and businesses put their best face forward. However, navigating the business side of this industry requires more than just a keen eye for aesthetics; it demands strategic thinking, effective communication, and a solid understanding of key business aspects. In this blog post, we'll delve into the intricacies of pricing strategies, client negotiations, contracts, and other critical elements that can elevate your career as a professional commercial photographer.
Unveiling the Secrets of Pricing Strategies
Setting the right price for your services is a delicate dance that requires a balance between your skills, experience, and market demand. Conduct thorough research to understand the pricing landscape in your region. Consider factors such as your level of expertise, the quality of your portfolio, and the unique value you bring to clients.
One effective strategy is to offer tiered packages that cater to different client needs. This not only provides clients with options but also allows you to maximize your revenue potential. Ensure that your pricing is transparent and reflective of the value you provide, fostering trust and loyalty among your clientele.
The Art of Client Negotiations
Negotiating with clients is both an art and a science. Start by understanding your client's budget and expectations. Be prepared to justify your pricing by highlighting the value and benefits they will receive. Emphasize the positive impact high-quality headshots can have on their personal or professional brand.
Flexibility is key during negotiations. While sticking to your pricing principles is important, being open to compromise on certain aspects can lead to mutually beneficial agreements. Remember, effective communication and a focus on building long-term relationships can turn a one-time client into a repeat customer.
Crafting Foolproof Contracts
Contracts are the backbone of any successful commercial photography business. They not only protect your interests but also set clear expectations for both parties involved. A well-drafted contract should outline the scope of work, deliverables, timelines, payment terms, and usage rights.
Consider consulting with a legal professional to ensure your contracts are comprehensive and legally sound. Clearly define the rights and restrictions regarding image usage to avoid potential conflicts down the line. A transparent and fair contract establishes trust and professionalism, fostering a positive working relationship with your clients.
Market Insights: The Professional Headshot Photography Landscape
Understanding the market is paramount to positioning yourself as a successful professional headshot photographer. Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and the evolving demands of your target audience. Analyze the pricing models of your competitors and identify opportunities for differentiation.
Investing time in building a strong online presence can significantly impact your visibility within the market. Utilize social media platforms, create a user-friendly website, and showcase your portfolio to attract potential clients. Consider offering promotions or discounts to incentivize new clients and encourage repeat business.
Conclusion: A Business Blueprint for Success
Navigating the business side of commercial photography, especially in the realm of professional headshot photography, requires a strategic mindset and a commitment to professionalism. By mastering pricing strategies, honing negotiation skills, crafting foolproof contracts, and staying abreast of market insights, you can build a thriving business that not only captures the essence of your clients but also secures your position as a top-tier commercial photographer.
Remember, success in this industry is not just about capturing captivating images but also about building enduring client relationships and positioning yourself as a trusted expert in the competitive world of professional headshot photography. |
To Our Customers & Community,
In light of the latest updates regarding COVID-19, we want to share the safety measures Boulder Organic Coffee is focusing on at this time. We continue to closely monitor updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and are following all best practices, recommendations and preventive measures.
Below are additional steps we are taking:
- Hygiene is core to our Good Manufacturing Practices and we regularly inspect production to ensure all employees are properly washing their hands according to Food Safety Guidelines.
- We’ve increased the frequency of our sanitation activities.
- We’ve asked all staff that aren’t feeling well to stay home.
- To promote social distancing, we’ve postponed all of our travel and events.
- Our leadership team meets daily to review our plans and ensure current best practices are effective. At this time, we do not foresee any issues with providing our customers with amazing coffee, tea and cocoa products as we will be working hard to keep products in stock.
We extend all of our thoughts and prayers to all those impacted by COVID-19 and will continue to work with our customers, employees and communities to get through this together.
Douglass & Jason Barrow
Brothers & Owners |
When working with your staffing firm in San Diego, you want the best experience possible. Your employees are what make your business hum along. Therefore, it only follows that your staffing agency plays a critical part. From finding a temporary fill in when someone is out for a month due to an unexpected injury or bringing you your next full-time employee, your staffing team is there in a pinch. However, developing and maintaining a relationship with your agency is crucial. Here are four tips to get the best from your staffing firm in San Diego.
Ensure Clear Two-Way Communication
Communication is important in any business relationship, and it’s relevant to a staffing agency as well. You want to be sure the agency has easy access to your business so they can contact you as needed. In addition, you want to be sure that the agency is accessible too. If there aren’t clear channels whereby the two entities can communicate, then a breakdown can occur.
Clarify Your Job Needs
You know what type of employee you need or what type of job that needs to be fulfilled. However, unless it’s spelled out clearly, you may end up with a mismatch. When hiring for a new position, some business managers may pull a job description from the file and send it over. But this may not adequately define what type of person you need. Take into consideration what your company culture is as well as what type of tasks the person may have to do. Soft skills are another area that is more important for some jobs than others. All of these factors need to be clarified when working with an agency. In time, they will get to know your company culture, mission, and values. This helps with finding the best fit for the position.
Find the Best Agency
No matter how hard you try or how well you do your part, if you don’t work with the right agency for you, then it won’t work out. How do you know if you have found the right staffing firm? You will be inspired to:
- Have confidence in them.
- Feel secure in their judgment.
- Relax in their presence.
- Contact them any time a need presents itself.
- Feel comfortable discussing any staffing problems you have.
Finding the best agency also means the company stands behind their word and work. Guarantees inspire trust and a company. So, you will want an agency that offers a window of time whereby you can swap out a person if the person doesn’t work out.
Understand the Services
If you know all the services your agency offers, it will save you and them time when you need services. Most agencies offer a variety of services. Here is a list of what type of services to expect from a top agency in San Diego:
- Temporary placement: A person is provided to fill in for a brief period of time, usually between 1-4 weeks.
- Permanent position: A regular full-time employee will fill this vacancy.
- Long-term projects or fill-ins: You may have annual projects or busy seasons that require additional people. This type of person would come during those times.
- Contract temp to permanent hire: Often times a manager wants to see how a person will fit it before hiring them for a permanent position. This service is set up for those types of needs.
Becoming partners with your staffing firm in San Diego will ensure you have a positive working experience and that your staffing needs are fulfilled. Enhance your relationship with your staffing agency and get their best work. Your first step is finding the best agency with whom to work. Ready to connect with your new staffing partner? Contact us today! |
We're so ready to get on holiday once we're able to, but until then here are just some of the ways we'll be getting ready...
- Practice cocktail making
From pina coladas to daiquiris, there is no denying that cocktails are one of the best things about holidays. Learn to make your favourites, or experiment with new recipes, and become a cocktail whizz in time for your getaway. Hotel room pre-drinks will be on you!
- Take wet-hair selfies in the shower
Get your beach babe style down to a T by practicing your posing and selfie-taking with wet hair, in the shower or bath. Your pals will all be so jealous when you get those pro holiday snaps!
- Wear your bikini in the bath and listen to a soundtrack of crashing waves
Relax and take a dip in your bathroom. Read a book or just close your eyes and lay back while you let the sound of soothing, crashing waves wash over you. If you really try, it might just feel like you’re on holiday… Bonus points if you have a sea salt scented candle.
- Master the Macarena
Let’s be honest, no holiday is complete without a cheesy dance routine. Use this time to get your Macarena skills on POINT so you can dance til you drop.
- Learn how to make a yummy Greek salad (or other traditional dish from your destination country)
Holiday food always tastes better, that’s a fact. But to get you hyped up and ready to experience it for real, try teaching yourself how to make a traditional dish from your destination country. We can’t resist a delicious Greek salad…
- Sunbathe in the garden – get that base coat tan
Avoid burning when you get to the beach by getting a nice golden glowy base coat tan in your garden before you jet off. Don’t forget to use sunscreen!
- Sit in your swimwear and stare wistfully at photos from your previous holidays
While the Great British weather has been nice lately, we know it won’t last. So once you’ve packed up from lounging in the garden, look back through your old holiday snaps (or look up your dream destination) and pretend you’re really there. |
Learn at your pace, 100% online
- $99 go to link$99 go to link
In this Bootcamp, you will learn how to develop as an interpreter and improve your skills as a remote interpreter. You will record yourself practicing on video and practice in Virtual Teams and the Facebook Mothership. The Bootcamp covers the following topics: ✔ interpreting modalities ✔ domains and competencies essential for effective interpretation ✔ cultural awareness ✔ technical skills and troubleshooting ✔ establishing your home office ✔ codes of ethics, privacy and confidentiality ✔ overview of interpreter platforms providing OPI and VRI services ✔ job opportunities, additional services required on the market The first set of modules (Modules 1-7) are specifically addressed to those of you who do not have a lot of experience interpreting. You may be bilingual but perhaps have never interpreted professionally. You may be translators retraining to become remote interpreters. You may be language teachers looking for a new opportunity in the market place. Or you may have a different background altogether. Welcome. Welcome. Welcome! Those of you who have been interpreting for a while could jump straight into the Bootcamp to Become a Remote Interpreter (Modules 8-12), although you will be missing a lot of good information and practice.... but you don't have to go through the basics again.... although, I would say, why don't you polish your skills a little bit?
PO Box 800424, Miami, FL 33280 |
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Madison's Guide To Success By 25
Madison Hildebrand tells you how to be successful in real estate
The real estate industry is a fiercely competitive and challenging field. Throw youth into that mix, and you're headed down a tumultuous path where success may seem impossible at times. In any professional field, young people are faced with the obstacle of overcoming a plethora of ingrained prejudices against the young.
Here are five tips on how to gain clout with the people that matter in your field. Keep in mind that the goal is to get to a place where you can use youth in your favor.
1. Do what you're passionate about -- or get out!
The foundation for success in any field is loving what you do. Being successful takes hard work and long hours -- if you aren't genuinely intrigued by what's holding you captive, your days will seem never-ending.
2. Don't listen to other negative feedback.
As with anything, people will feel the need to impose their personal beliefs and opinions on the choices you will make along your career path. Keep your eye on the prize and look at negative opinions as a challenge: Use them to help you set goals and surpass them.
3. Be fair, positive and ethical.
Every day, we deal with people who are catty, have negative attitudes, and/or generally emanate unnecessary toxicity into others' lives. People with positive energy, charisma, and an innate pleasantness are like a breath of fresh air. This type of attitude is contagious -- everyone will be drawn to working with you on a continual basis.
4. Be obsessive in knowing your field.
Typically, people equate higher numbers in age with higher levels of experience and knowledge. By immersing yourself into any sort of literature, news, industry-related education, or training, you are giving yourself an edge that will catch people off-guard. Since you don't have a wealth of experience, compensate with a wealth of knowledge.
5. Find yourself a mentor. Look for someone at the top of their game -- someone who you respect and has been in the business for many years. Immerse yourself into their day. I spent many days sitting on my mentor's floor listening to every phone conversation he had. The tips I learned from him were priceless. |
Armed criminals pulled up alongside a police van on a moped and aimed a gun at the officers in an attempt to free a suspected burglar detained in the back in Croydon, South London.
The trio was allegedly caught breaking into a mobile phone shop in the south-east of the capital in the small hours of Wednesday morning, with police arresting one 24-year-old male and then rearresting him after a struggle with his two accomplices which resulted in him briefly escaping, the Croydon Guardian reports.
The young man was taken to his home in Croydon so the property could be searched, after which two moped riders pulled up to the police van he was detained in and aimed a firearm at the officers.
The police van was able to drive away before any shots could be fired and without the 24-year-old being sprung from custody, but the incident left officers shocked.
London Police Appeal For Information After Fourth Shooting in Two Days, Illegal Gun Factory Discovered https://t.co/LO0NPlvE6s
— Breitbart London (@BreitbartLondon) August 22, 2018
“This once again demonstrates the bravery of officers who put themselves in harm’s way every day in order to protect the public,” commented Simon Messinger, Central South Area Commander for the Metropolitan Police Force.
“Fortunately the officers only received minor injuries [in the earlier struggle] and, thanks to the rapid support of colleagues, one of the suspects was detained.
“However, two suspects remain outstanding, and these are clearly reckless and dangerous individuals. Our priority now is to identify and arrest them.”
‘He’s Got a Gun’: News Anchor Mugged by Cyclist While Broadcasting from London https://t.co/QyyPXNuiz6
— Breitbart London (@BreitbartLondon) June 6, 2018
Gun crime is on the rise in London under the mayoralty of Labour’s Sadiq Khan, with recent statistics indicating that a weapon is discharged as much as every six hours despite draconian restrictions on legal firearms.
Carrying a firearm for self-defence is completely prohibited everywhere but the Province of Northern Ireland, where some serving and former members of the Armed Forces, police, and other sensitive individuals may carry a Personal Protection Weapon.
On the British mainland, ordinary citizens may not carry so much as a lipstick-sized pepper spray for protection, and even police officers are not routinely armed.
Nor is home defence considered a “good reason” to be issued a shotgun or other firearms licence, with permits largely restricted to hunters, shooting club members, people involved in vermin control, etc.
Handguns, while increasingly common among criminals, are almost entirely prohibited.
Khan’s London: Gang Warfare Kills More than Terror, Despite Tightest Gun Controls Firearms Are ‘Easy’ to Buy https://t.co/uGkyI60BrM
— Breitbart London (@BreitbartLondon) April 5, 2018 |
The first goal of the project was to know where was our departure point. Did our students have breakfast before school? Did our students know which were the elements of a healthy breakfast? And families? Was there any relationship between those students who had a good breakfast and their school performance?
Students created the first survey and analysed the results.
The conclusions were that we had to promote healthy breakfast because a lot of students and families weren't well informed.
Have a look at the process to create this initial survey.
If you want to see all the results and charts click the bottom. |
Where to go:
Finger Lakes, NY: (about a 5hr drive)
- Perfect for a weekend away, the Finger Lakes region in upstate New York is comprised of a selection of excellent wineries, great lakes and scenic hiking, creating the perfect excuse to change your scenery for the weekend. While in the area, start your morning with a hike at Watkins Glen State Park, then spend the afternoon visiting some local wineries such as Boundary Breaks Vineyard (where their known for their Rieslings) and Hazlitt (where you can sample some excellent cabernet and traditional ice wine). End the day with a meal at Eric’s Office (a family owned restaurant, where you’ll most likely see the locals) or at Ports Café (where a seasonal menu is sure to delight all taste buds), followed by an overnight stay at Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, which was voted ‘America’s Best Waterfront Hotel’ by USA Today. The hotel is located on the largest lake in the Finger Lakes and offers an indoor pool and great dining options!
Cape May, NJ: (about 2 ½ hour drive)
- Ideal for an overnight trip, Cape May is an idyllic town along the Jersey Shore, best known for its scenic views along the beach. Book a stay at Congress Hall, America’s oldest seaside hotel, located just steps away from the heart of Cape May’s historic district.
- Whether you choose to spend the full day at the beach, or explore the local area, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. For a unique experience, head over to Bay Spring Farm Alpacas, where you can visit and interact with a herd of alpacas. For those looking to soak in the view and explore outdoors, the Cape May Lighthouse offers a great birding area, with amazing views of Cape May. For those who want to winedown, the Cape May Winery & Vineyard offers a great environment to enjoy a glass of wine, and they’re even pet friendly for those that may want to bring their dogs!
Catskills, NY: (about a 4hr drive)
- The Catskill Mountains, located in Upstate New York, offers the perfect escape for out-of-towners, with a variety of farm-to-table eateries, craft breweries and distilleries and boutique hotels. As the area attracts more of a young, hip crowd, prices within the area are fairly reasonable. Another plus, the area is sparsely populated and surrounded by rolling farmland and mountain hamlets, allowing for plenty of space to explore, unlike the congestion of the city. While in the area, take in the view of a two-tiered waterfall cascade 260 feet down rocks at Kaaterskill Falls. For those who choose to hike the trail, it will take approximately 45 minutes to complete as it’s only 1 mile long. When your hike is completed, head over to Brandenburg Bakery for some delicious sweets, like strawberry and cherry tarts and spinach and feta turnovers (a local favorite)! For the craft beer enthusiast, Roscoe Beer Company offers limited-released beers, including their signature Rainbow Red Ale. Spend a night at the bespoke mountain lodge in the heart of the Catskills, Scribner’s Catskill Lodge, where you can enjoy 20 acres of mountainside to explore.
While you head out and explore, please stay safe, follow CDC and local guidelines and save these quick getaways for an upcoming trip! We highly recommend you check the websites of each activity for updated hours and openings. |
Newmarket, England, December 15th 1814
Daniel loved his elder sister, Rheda, he really did. He even loved his little niece and nephew, Samantha and Wilton, especially when they were asleep. And he admired Rheda’s husband, Rufus Knight, the Earl of Hascombe. But he hated how, at Christmas, and all the other ‘family’ occasions, he was summoned to the Earl’s estate to dress up fancy and make polite conversation with the guests his sister took pleasure inviting into her home.
None of the other guests cared less if he was here or not. He was hopeless at cards and didn’t have the schooling to contribute to the conversations between the men. The unmarried ladies ignored him because who wanted a mere Baron for a husband. While the married women with boring, older husbands thought all they had to do was beckon with a crooked finger and he would service them gratefully.
Why had he bothered to come?
Because he loved his elder sister Rheda, and for some reason she’d wanted him here earlier than he usually came north for the festive period. She was the reason he still had his estate. Her selfless efforts while he was growing up.
Their father had bled his estate dry with his gambling and womanizing. After his father’s death, Rheda had spent the next five years trying to save his estate until he was old enough to run it. Situated near Deal in Kent, Rheda had, for a short time, taken up smuggling to save Tumbury Cliff Manor from bankruptcy, before breeding the best cavalry horses known to man. Instead of attending Eton, Rheda had home-schooled him and could only just hold his own with writing and arithmetic, something that as the current Baron de Winter, he found embarrassing. He felt more at home in the stables, hence why, after dinner tonight, he made his way across the large cobblestoned courtyard toward Rufus’s immaculate and impressive stables which housed the best racing horseflesh in the world.
As he approached, it dawned upon him that there should be more grooms around. You didn’t leave animals as valuable as this unattended. What if there was a fire, or a horse fell ill, or was stolen? He quickened his pace. Perhaps there were no grooms because Rufus had given them the day off to shop for Christmas? Rufus may well have given most of them the night off to spend with their families, but still his instincts saw him jog across the cobblestones.
His heart jumped into his throat when he saw the door to the main stable ajar; normally it was locked and guarded.
He slipped inside, walking silently on his toes. He waited until his eyes adjusted to the dark before creeping forward. He saw the young groom, Blake, lying motionless inside the first stall. He hesitated, wondering if he should retreat and call for reinforcements. He was just about to turn back when he spied movement near the stall at the rear. The stall held Rufus’s recent expensive purchase, a colt as black as the coal burning in the drawing-room grate, named Apollo.
Someone was opening the stall. Who would try to steal Rufus’s colt? Daniel hoped they were experienced horsemen; Apollo was temperamental, to say the least.
Daniel crept forward. He thought his ears were playing tricks on him because as he drew closer, the murmured reassurances spoken to the excited colt sounded feminine in nature. It couldn’t be. The colt needed a firm hand. Apollo sometimes forgot who was boss, and he needed a man’s strength to subdue his wildness.
Daniel straightened from his crouch and moved with more assurance toward the end stall. It bloody well was a woman with the colt. She might be disguised in men’s clothes, but he’d seen Rheda, his sister, wearing trousers enough times to recognize the enticingly feminine curves. The shapely behind sat atop legs almost as long as the colts. Hair as light as straw hung down the middle of her back, tied with a ribbon. She was holding Apollo’s nose, and whispering in his ear.
Was she touched in the head? Even if she was a thief, he felt the urgent need to protect her from her folly. Apollo could trample her to death.
“Don’t make any sudden movements, back slowly away from the colt so as not to frighten him,” Daniel spoke softly from the entrance to the stall. Instead of following his sensible advice, he watched her stiffen, her hand still on the colt’s nose and in utter disbelief Daniel saw her other hand move to grip Apollo’s mane as if she were about to… Goddamn her to Hades, she bolted onto the colt’s back.
“Step away unless you wish to be trampled.”
Her voice was breathy but held an air of command. He couldn’t see her features in the gloom, but he’d swear she was gentrified. She had an unmistakable air of arrogance, proving she was used to talking down to men. Instead of obeying her, he stepped into the middle of the stall doorway.
“Horse thieving is a hanging offence. I’d hate to see that pretty neck stretched.”
“I am not stealing, so you need not worry on my behalf.”
His hands fell from where they sat on his hips, and he moved a few steps forward. “I know you’re stealing, love. That is Lord Hascombe’s new colt, Apollo.” He wished he could see her face. “Now, get down before you hurt yourself. Young Apollo here is not known for his good behavior.”
“That’s because you simpletons don’t know how to handle him. He is obedient for those he respects. Besides, I’m not your love. Now, I shall ask nicely one final time. Get out of the way!”
Daniel stood undecided. He could not simply step aside and let her steal his brother-in-law’s valuable colt, but neither could he rush the horse. “We appear to be at an impasse as I have no intention of letting you take him.”
He heard the smile in her voice. “Let me?” With that she made Apollo rear up and his hooves came very near to Daniel’s face and body. Daniel held fast. Surely, she was testing him?
“I’m not moving so you may as well tell me why it’s not stealing.”
He heard a very unladylike curse issue from her lips, impressing him even more than her horsemanship.
“My grandfather gifted me Apollo, therefore, my father had no right to sell him to Lord Hascombe.”
Daniel moved forward and stroked Apollo’s nose. “If this is true, why not inform Lord Hascombe of the situation? I’m sure he would listen.”
She snorted. “Would you willingly give up an animal of this quality and value?”
“If he had been sold without the owner’s permission, yes. Can you prove it was a gift?” The silence spoke volumes. “I see. Well, get down from there and come into the house. We shall see what Lord Hascombe has to say.”
He didn’t know her first name, but he knew who had given the horse to Rufus, the Marquis of Wentworth, Charles Marsh. Daniel had been right; she was gentry, yet way above an impoverished Baron. He waited, for he was not about to turn his back on Lady Marsh and the colt.
With a sigh, she dismounted just as the stable door crashed open and voices started yelling. Apollo reared, and Lady Marsh went flying, landing with a thump on the straw-covered floor. Daniel raced forward and tried to block the colt from crashing down on the prone young woman. The horse butted him with his head, and he fell backwards on top of her. At least he’d protect her from further harm.
However, Lady Marsh spoke to the excited colt in a calm, lilting voice and the animal stopped prancing, and stood with nostrils flaring and eyes wide in the middle of the stall.
The pair lay still, not wishing to startle the colt again. Daniel didn’t mind. The soft curves he lay upon reminded him it had been a long time since he’d been with a woman.
Then he chided himself. Lady Marsh was not a lady to dally with unless he wanted marriage. At three and twenty, he had no intention of seeking a bride. He had his estate to rebuild first. There was nothing he could offer a woman of her stature.
Michael, the head groom, arrived with a halter and soon led the animal to another stall. He returned immediately. “They have drugged the grooms. I believe someone is out to steal Lord Hascombe’s horses.”
Daniel felt her stiffen beneath him.
“Well, the thief is not in this stall.” He watched Michael lift the lantern he carried and look at the second pair of boots sticking out from under Daniel. “This is my paramour from Kent. She came up to surprise me. It was not safe for her to travel dressed as a woman. She couldn’t go through Christmas without some of my loving,” and he ran his hand down Lady Marsh’s side. He enjoyed hearing her quiet hiss of outrage.
“Well, you picked a dangerous place for a liaison, my lord. Apollo isn’t used to his new surroundings yet.” Michael looked over his shoulder. “Plus, it looks as though we have a thief on the premises. He, or they, have drugged the other grooms. I only avoided being doped because I had to help his lordship with the Christmas tree. You may well have stopped him stealing this valuable colt.”
“I’m sure I did,” he said ironically. “He wouldn’t have expected to find me here.” That got him a jab in his ribs.
“I shall leave you to your…, well, be careful and keep an eye out for the culprits.” With that, Michael backed out of the stall. He stopped and bent down to leave the lantern at the door to the stall. “You’ll need this so you are not surprised again.”
As soon as Michael’s footsteps faded, Lady Marsh pushed at Daniel’s chest. “Get off me.”
“I’m quite comfortable where I am, thank you. Besides, is that any way to thank me for saving your neck, Lady Marsh?”
Her breathing was her only reply.
Daniel’s temper flared to life. “Would you have preferred me to introduce you as the person who drugged the staff and tried to steal the colt? I’m aware that a lady’s reputation is far more valuable than the colt.”
“Not to me. If not for you, I’d be well away with Apollo. Now I’ll never get him back.”
“Is your Grandfather alive to vouch for his gift?” He noted that she was no longer trying to push him off, and he would not move unless she asked. The feel of her beneath him stirred very pleasant sensations.
“Oh, for goodness’ sake. If he were, would I be here risking everything to steal him? Now get off me,” and she shoved hard, sending him slipping sideways onto the straw. She was on her feet and racing to escape before he’d taken his next breath.
Daniel stuck out one leg and sent her tumbling face first onto the hay. He was on top of her in a moment. “You may be a lady, but your manners are appalling. Where is my thank you?”
She turned her head to look at him over her shoulder. “And if he hadn’t called you lord, I’d never have known you were a gentleman. This is no way to treat a lady.”
Daniel snorted. “Ladies don’t steal high spirited colts,” he whispered in her ear.
“You know who I am, however, I have no idea who you are. What is your name?” He couldn’t help a smug smile. She was interested in him, but then to his regret she added, “So I know to avoid you.”
“Daniel Kerrich, Baron de Winter, at your service, my lady.”
She frowned and said. “Blast. The Earl’s brother-in-law has caught me. Are you going to tell him what I tried to do?”
She knew who he was. That was interesting. He’d never been to London in his life, but he supposed people had gossiped about Rheda and her background. “Perhaps you could persuade me to simply let you go,” he suggested nuzzling her neck. That got him an elbow in his stomach. He laughed as he rolled off her. “I was teasing.” He leaped to his feet. “Come on,” he held out his hand to help her to her feet. “I’ll introduce you to Rufus. Let’s see what we can sort out.”
She took his hand, and he marveled at how finely boned she was. Her hand was tiny compared to his. How on earth she’d had the strength to control Apollo… She must have the touch? Some people could almost talk to a horse and get them to do anything. He was one of those people. Maybe she had the gift too. He pulled her to her feet with little effort.
“Why are you doing this for me?” she asked quietly.
When she turned into the lantern light, he finally got a look at her face and he almost stopped breathing. Her hair was a mess, and her face was covered in dust and dirt. Yet, she was still the most arresting woman he’d ever seen. Strands had come loose and wisps of hair fell around her face, as if it too wanted to stroke the perfect unblemished skin. He would have known she was highborn; her breeding was evident in her fine features. Her nose, eyes, and lips were in perfect symmetry to the size of her face. Vivid blue iris’s surrounded dark pinpoints that flared as the light flickered. Her eyelashes were so long he wondered if she had to detangle them every morning when she woke. Her nose was cute to the point of being childlike, but her lips… They were definitely all woman. Pouty and luscious, and he wanted a taste so badly he had to pinch his thigh to remember who she was.
“I’m the only man who could understand why you’d get worked up about a horse. Once you bond with a special steed, it’s difficult to part with them.” She opened and then closed her mouth, surprised at his understanding. He bowed and with one hand indicated she should precede him from the stall. “Let’s just say I admire a woman who is passionate about horses.” Under his breath he added, “A passionate nature usually means passionate in bed too.”
They reached the entrance to the large stable block and Daniel’s body hummed when he saw the mistletoe hanging above the large barn door. He slowed his step and pulled her to face him, pointing upwards as he did.
“Don’t be ridiculous. I will not kiss you; I hardly know you. Besides because of you, my plan is ruined.”
“I can’t help the fact your plan was a terrible one. For all you knew, Rufus might have wanted to show Apollo off to his visitors. The estate is large. Did you really think you’d be able to slink in and out unaided?” He pulled her closer. “As to a kiss, a chaste peck is often the norm, but a more passionate kiss would be appropriate considering I saved you from facing Michael’s wrath.”
She raised a face filled with alarm but also desire. He could read it easily in her expressive eyes. “Now then,” he said smiling, “a kiss is a thing to be shared, not given nor rushed.” Tipping her chin up, he gazed into those wide, luminous eyes and more than simple desire began to unfold—possessiveness—a sensation foreign to him where a woman was concerned. He felt, for a moment, as if he was gazing into the eyes of an angel, and he touched her smooth cheek with reverence.
“Have you any idea,” he murmured softly, “how enchanting you are? Tell me your name.”
* * *
The way he spoke those words, combined with his touch and the kindness he’d done her this evening, had the seductive impact Georgiana had dreaded from the moment she’d looked into his handsome face.
When he’d lain atop her, all hard muscle and withheld strength, she felt as if she were beginning to melt and float inside. As his head bent and his lips drew near, she couldn’t pull her gaze from his hypnotic green eyes. And worse still, she didn’t want to try.
“Georgiana,” she answered breathlessly as his lips drew closer.
When his lips took hers in a kiss, she knew that it would be nothing at all like the chaste kisses she’d experienced hidden behind the potted plants at countless balls. Having reached twenty-years-of-age, she’d experienced her fair share of innocent kisses. His mouth slanted over hers with fierce tenderness, while his hand curved round her nape, his fingers stroking her sensitive skin along the collar of her shirt, and his other arm encircled her waist, pulling her tightly against his hard, hot body.
Lost in a sea of pure sensation, Georgiana slid her hands up his muscular chest to wrap her arms around his neck, clinging to him as if her world depended on her staying as close to him as she could. Desire unfurled deep within her at the feel of his erection and she clung tighter to him, sliding her hands down his back to his firm buttocks.
He kissed her long and lingeringly, both gentle and persuasive. So, when he touched his tongue to her trembling lips, this time coaxing them to part, insisting actually, she eagerly admitted him. His tongue slid between her open lips, filling her mouth. His hand shifted from her waist, sliding upward toward her breasts.
He tasted of everything forbidden and everything she wanted.
She barely noted the moan of encouragement that escaped her above the pounding of her heart. Never had she let a man take such liberties, and never had she wanted to let him. She hoped the kiss would never end.
Just as she silently made her wish, Daniel’s hands left her body, and he fell sideways, out cold on the cobblestones.
“You were right, Baron. She didn’t come alone, however, I didn’t expect to have to save her from a kiss. A kiss she looked as if she was enjoying.”
Georgiana chose to ignore Billy’s chastisement. She peered down at Daniel’s prone form. “He will be all right, won’t he?”
“Aye, he’ll have a sore head when he wakes so best we take our leave before he rouses. No chance of getting the colt then?”
She bent down and reached out to touch Daniel’s face. He looked so young and less sure of himself as he lay on the ground, knocked out cold. She hoped he wouldn’t hate her. He was the first man she’d ever felt an ounce of grudging respect for.
“No, the groom took him,” she answered sadly. “We will have to find another way to retrieve the colt. He knows who I am and why I’m here.”
As Georgiana and Billy, her groom, slipped quietly away through the outbuildings, to find the horses they had tethered several miles east of the Earl of Hascombe’s estate, she thought over how her plan had gone so badly wrong. As she mounted Black Devil for the ride back to her father’s estate, she tried not to let her despair cloud her head.
She would get Apollo back, and now that she’d met Baron de Winter, she realized he was the perfect foil in her new plan.
She prayed that next time her idea wouldn’t go so horribly wrong, as she would pay a much higher price than just a kiss. Just a kiss! Daniel’s kiss made her dream of sandalwood and spice—all things wanton and terribly nice.Return to Lord of Pleasure |
(B2) Between Kabul and the various hubs set up, which planes are used? Who selects the evacuees? How is the flight coordination going? What are the difficulties at Kabul airport? How is the reception of evacuees in the French hub in the Emirates...? All answers
NB: these elements were gathered in large part during a long interview (Friday) by several media (including B2) with Colonel (French) Yannick Desbois, commander of air base 104 (United Arab Emirates) which provides the hub for the French army. They were supplemented by information collected by B2 offsite from diplomats or military officials of various nationalities.
How is all this planned?
The armies had planned the evacuation of Kabul, cold. Hot is another matter. " We try to have a forecast 24 hours before. But very honestly in this operation, indicates Colonel Yannick Desbois, commander of base 104, the plans survive only a few hours. We are constantly adapting. “The management of a “ such an evacuation device is particularly complex. It's not always easy to do “Adds a diplomat, who worked in the Quai crisis unit, interviewed by B2.
How is air coordination done?
Coordination takes place at the American headquarters located in Qatar, the CAOC (Combined Air Operations Center) in Al-Udeid, which coordinates all American and Allied air operations for the region. It is he who is responsible in particular for the air component of the operation Inherent Resolve against Daesh (Iraq, Syria). The Americans hold the handle, but each nation is already represented in the CAOC. It is not the Americans who decide alone, assures Colonel Desbois. Everything is done in coordination ».
When will the operation be completed?
The Americans had indicated the deadline for the " 31 August to complete the operation, the Pentagon spokesman specifying " for the moment ". On the French military side, no deadline has been set. " We are able to hold out over time assures Colonel Desbois. The operation will last as long as there are people to evacuate, the Taliban will let us do it and the Americans will have decided it », sums up a soldier to B2. The Germans set the September 30st their deadline. Some countries, for example the Czech Republic, have already finished.
On Kabul airport
Who provides security at the airport?
Initially entrusted to the Turkish military, the " Securing Kabul airport relies mainly on the American soldiers deployed “, recognizes a tricolor diplomat. They were reinforced by British and French. This is to ensure security at the gates, but also to maintain the appropriate level of security to implement the various means (runway surveillance, runway lighting, etc.). Important clarification: the Euro-Atlantic forces only hold the military part of the airport, not the civilian part.
Where are the Taliban?
The Taliban are present in town, near the airport, as well as in the civil part of the airport ". " They have not yet shown any proven hostility with regard to Western military forces assures Colonel Desbois. But, according to the various assessments, the intelligence, they “ possess weapons [rocket launchers, etc.] that could be used against aircraft and pose a threat ».
How is the situation there?
Hamid Karzai Airport is a “ very special airport, very steep, with a lot of warmth ". On site, the conditions are rudimentary "," insecure "," far from the usual standards ", with " lots of flights ". For the pilots, the maneuver is therefore “ extremely complex ". It takes all the skill and mastery of the crews to land there. Runway lighting is limited. To this must be added the impossibility of obtaining fuel locally and, above all, " some level of threat ". The situation is very scalable ". " It evolves hour by houre” indicates the pass. Woodland. The situation is " very volatile we confirm on all sides. Saturday (21.08), “ the situation in Kabul is very difficult », We thus indicated, on the German side, indicating that we wanted to evacuate the « maximum of people ", as soon as possible.
How long do the devices stay on site?
The military part of the airport has a " limited capacity ". There are not many parking spaces. Aircraft must park as limited as possible on the tarmac. " When planes land in Kabul, they pick up passengers and have to leave quickly. » Delay noted (according to the information communicated by the various armies): on average, between half an hour and a maximum of one hour between the landing of the wheels and take-off. " We try to coordinate as much as possible to ensure that there are not two planes arriving at the same time, and not to have too many planes parked at the same time “explains the col. Woodland. On the French side, it is affirmed, " we don't send planes if we're not sure we're getting people on board. »
What devices are used to travel to Kabul?
The French, like most other nations (Germans, Belgians, Dutch, etc.) exclusively use so-called 'tactical' A400M or C130 aircraft (or even C-17 on the US side). " The security situation indeed implies having high levels of protection ". These devices have self-protection systems, decoys », allowing to thwart the missiles. For now, there is " no proven shots against the French planes. But the quality of the soldier is to foresee and adapt to the technical conditions »
Who selects the people who board ?
On the French side, it is a consular team from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, based partly in Abu Dhabi, and on site at Kabul airport (in coordination with the ambassador on site, David Martinon), which draws up the lists people who can board. The soldiers content themselves with taking the lists that are given to them. NB: each country has more or less the same type of organization. Belgian and Dutch consular teams were sent to the spot.
Devices are sometimes filled to capacity. Who decides at the last moment?
An A400M can normally accommodate 120 people seated. But in terms of tonnage, it can accommodate a lot more. " We try to do our best to accommodate as many passengers as possible on board. says Colonel Desbois. A French A400M thus welcomed nearly 210 people. " In all security conditions assures the aviator. " The crew placed all the passengers [as well as the luggage] in order to evenly distribute the weight in the aircraft, ensuring that the maximum weight limit was not exceeded ". Ultimately, it is the captain who arbitrates and decides how many passengers he can board, based on criteria " very cold, very technical ". NB: German aircraft regularly leave with more than 200 people on board (230 for the largest).
How do people arrive at Kabul airport?
It's a real problem. The difficulty for people having to take the plane is to access the airport. The Germans have just sent two H145M helicopters (the military version of the Airbus EC145 helicopter) to Kabul. Objective: to be able to pick up people outside the airport. The Finns (who are not members of NATO) send a team of special forces. Etc.
At Base 104 (United Arab Emirates)
The evacuees pass through the French base for a few hours (from 8 to 24 hours) before taking the plane back to Paris. More comfortable 'white' planes (type A310 or A330) make it possible to make the second part of the journey " in better conditions for a long distance. Time to do the security checks and to get a bit of a fix.
How is life on the French base?
Base 104 is a small base, with 180 personnel (approximately 160 permanent and around twenty for shorter stays). The French largely rely on Emirati support (the French base is actually an enclave within the Emirati Al Dhafra base). " We have very good cooperation wishes to underline the collar. Woodland. Normally there is " no accommodation capacity. We pushed the walls, set up temporary camps to accommodate both reinforcements from Paris (army health service, consular team, etc.) and evacuated civilians. Up to 250 people are accommodated on the base. A necessity given the emergency, the context of Covid-19, etc.
How is the reception of evacuees from Kabul organized?
Various security checks are carried out (as in any conventional airport) to ensure that there are no dangerous or illegal materials being transported. A search of people and luggage takes place. The evacuees also receive medical support. Covid-19 antigen tests are carried out. It is also " to treat the various pathologies they may have ". A team from the armed forces health service is present on the site. Finally, it is an opportunity to launch the consular process (carried out by a Foreign Affairs team): identity check and certain information necessary for visas, but also taking contact details of the rest of the families in Kabul.
In what state are the people arriving?
The evacuees from Kabul are in large state of psychological or physiological distress. This is normal given the situation in Kabul and difficulties in reaching the airport. We try " to relax them ". All the personnel of the base - officers, non-commissioned officers included - was thus requisitioned. " I saw Rafale pilots serve herbal tea to an 82-year-old Afghan woman and spend some time with her; crews lying on the ground, to play with children – we received up to 15 infants –, inflating balloons, taking out a soccer ball to play with young people... “History to forget the difficult times experienced.
Can the base continue to carry out its other missions?
« We have preserved a necessary seal with the other activities of the base », covered by the defense secrecy. If the context necessary, we are able to carry out another operation and accomplish all the missions necessary for the Rafale “, assures the collar. Woodland. Normally, the base is scheduled to provide two transport aircraft per day. These days, we counted 40 rotations in five days. |
Bajaj’s latest offering in the sports segment, the Pulsar 135LS, is a huge hit with a record 50,000 units sold in its first 75 days since launch. This is a new volume benchmark for any performance bike launch in this country.
The Pulsar 135LS, where LS stands for Light Sports, is available at a price of Rs 51,000 (ex-showroom Delhi).
The Pulsar 135LS has been the most appreciated bike by Auto-Experts this year. S. Sridhar, CEO-2Wh, Bajaj Auto Ltd, said: “With the launch of the Pulsar 135LS, our aim was to democratise the thrill of biking by making performance accessible. Not only have expert bikers and specialist auto magazines and channels greatly appreciated the bike, the response from customers too has been overwhelming.”
Pulsar 135LS is powered with a state of the art 4-valve DTS-i engine delivering 13.5 Ps power. With its chiseled lines and aggressive stance, a sporty split-seat, aluminum clip-on handlebars and a host of other features propel the 135cc Pulsar to deliver a power packed performance. |
In 2020 Buckland Parish Council had the opportunity to buy some land at Lower Buckland to use as a community orchard and nature reserve to return lost biodiversity to the Parish. The funding came from developer contributions for development within the Parish which had taken place some years previously. The land is near Monks Court and adjacent to the bridlepath to Puttenham.
The Parish Council applied to the Local Planning Authority for consent for change of use of the field from agricultural to a community orchard and nature reserve. This was granted, but the planners insisted on the Parish Council producing a detailed landscape plan before work could start on the site in Autumn 2021.
The Copse area will consist of native broad-leaved trees from a list approved by planning officers. The types of trees have been chosen to support a wide variety of birds, mammals, butterflies, moths, insects, and other invertebrates.
It was hoped that the winter of 2022/2023 would allow further tree planting and the Parish Council offered residents the opportunity to ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’. Following the hot, dry summer of 2022, further planting has had to be postponed until the 2023/24 planting season while an irrigation system is installed. So far apple trees, boundary trees and some large ‘statement’ trees have been planted, as well as wildflower and grass seed sown.
With the irrigation now in place, a further 50 plum and pear trees were planted during November/December 2023. This completes the planting of fruit trees, the cost of which has come from grants.
With the help of further funding from the Gib Lane Community Fund, the Parish Council will be installing a disabled-friendly pedestrian access and benches. This will allow members of the public to enjoy the wildflower meadow when it is in bloom.
The Parish Council has received a generous donation from the Horticultural Society and plans to use this for further planting within the copse area during the next planting season. |
Keeping your caddie on the move is easy with Buggies Unlimited around. The carriage will last for the long haul with our vast selection of golf cart parts and accessories like the Club Car Forward and Reverse Parts. What's more, our cache includes OEM replacements and aftermarket upgrades. So, you can stick with what you know or venture off into a customized refurbish.
There are many ins and outs for golf cart forward and reverse parts. Some factors that come into play are whether the vehicle is gas or electric, the age of the cart, and even the make and model. However, one thing remains the same, when any of these Club Car parts go on the frits, you're going to experience performance loss. We say no to that. Instead, restore or enhance your ride with quality units you'll find at Buggies Unlimited.
In this category, you'll find everything you need to keep your caddie moving. For example, suppose you've noticed you can't back the truck up or travel in forwarding motion. In that case, it may be time to replace the actual Club Car DS forward and reverse switch altogether. But, on the other hand, maybe it's a quick fix due to wear and tear. For that, you'll find Precedent replacement parts like the shifter base or even the golf cart forward and reverse handle.
Along with these wear and replacement parts, you can also browse for Club Car accessories that will offer aesthetic gains. In fact, the golf cart Skull Sport Shifter Knob will give you an aggressive style perfect for those who take their caddies on unbeaten paths. Additionally, you can keep it classy with an ergonomic handle extension or even a straightforward Precedent rocker switch. Plus, we've got golf cart hardware if that is all you need.
Buggies Unlimited is your friend in the industry. It's important that you get the golf cart parts and accessories you need for the experience you want. What's more, we want to ensure you have a fantastic shopping experience too. So, give one of our experts a call if you have questions, need help ordering, or assistance with an install. |
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My love for Joe Pug is no secret. If there is one artist who I have ever featured on this blog that I would like to see succeed, it’s Joe. Joe’s “Nation of Heat” EP was passed around my friends and family and random people I accosted on the street like no other, and it was one of the most promising debuts I have heard to date.
Recently, a live show of Joe Pug performing at Schuba’s Tavern on May 1st was posted to archive.org, and the set has pretty much been spinning non-stop through my headphones since then. A pleasant mixture of solo and full band stuff, the show hints at a great upcoming release. The full show can be downloaded here, but below, I’ve included the highlight of the set for me… that’s the opening tune, “How Good You Are”.
This song has hit me like a stake through the chest. I simply cannot wait for the upcoming full-length. Here’s to more of this from Joe Pug.
Listen. Love. Support.
Listen: Joe Pug – How Good You Are |
Stories from your road trip that you can tell over and over to your friends are the best moments – whether it’s crazy, interesting or simply hilarious.
During a road trip to Vancouver, my friend and I made a brief detour to a rustic/farm-themed area called Log Barn. What caught our attention was this funny goat who went up the platform and positioned itself on the wheel!
It waited for us to fill the bucket with kernels. As soon as it saw the bucket filled with kernels, it began peddling the wheel to raise the bucket.
What a smart goat!
My friend tried to play with the bucket (pulling it instead of letting go) but the goat was strong and determined enough to get its kernels. 🙂
See it for yourself: |
MILWAUKEE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Berengaria, a portfolio company of Marcus Investments, together in partnership with Charter Senior Living, announced it has completed the acquisition of Charter Senior Living of Hazel Crest, Hazel Crest, Illinois this past December. This asset is the fourth senior living property added to Marcus Investment’s growing senior living portfolio.
The 64-unit community offers Assisted Living and Memory Care. Dan Sisel, Partner at Marcus Investments said, “Hazel Crest offers a unique opportunity to invest in the fast-growing middle-market segment of senior living. The renovations that were completed by the previous owner under Charter’s management, combined with the improvements we are planning, will make Charter of Hazel Crest the most sought after affordable senior living option in the area.” Keven Bennema, President/CEO of Charter Senior Living, said, “Our on-site team have done an amazing job so far turning around a community that was not well cared for in the past; they’re excited to finish the turnaround.”
About Marcus Investments, LLC & Berengaria Development LLC
Berengaria, the real estate company under the Marcus Investments family office umbrella, has developed and/or managed more than $600 million of real estate nationwide since its inception in 2008. The company’s team of real estate and multi-vertical business experts is actively seeking opportunities to accelerate its growth, with a focus on acquiring open air retail shopping centers and senior living communities. Prospective retail opportunities should be sent to the attention of Jay Peirick, [email protected] and prospective senior living opportunities should be sent to the attention of Dan Sisel, [email protected]. |
For the highest high quality and most reasonably priced discount furniture in Philadelphia and South Jersey, trust Most effective Acquire Furnishings & Mattress. They carry high high quality & designer apparel, alongside their custom home fashions and furnishings. Product choice: Jackson Furnishings provides a lot of items which includes sofas, sectionals, chairs, rugs and far more. This Ossington shop is a mecca for locally-made, customizable furniture and fixtures.
Ethan Allen is primarily based in Danbury, Connecticut, and is the oldest manufacturer’s committed shop network, with organization and dealer-owned design centers. Milwaukee Furnishings presents easy, no-interest payment terms for 12 months, and some of its items are fabric sectionals, dining sets, and bedroom suites.
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Understanding a store’s delivery possibilities can assistance you narrow down the shop you pick to obtain from. Residence Craft Décor : located at 600 Queen Street West, offering complete room style with terrific furniture and decor pieces. Modern Cooperative is a furniture retailer in Chicago that has areas in Pilsen and Hyde Park.
Furniture shops present daily essentials and luxe designer items. If your searching for functional but fashionable barstools, Design and style Inside Reach is your answer. You will go gaga like a kid in a candy store with their delightful choice of wooden beds, drawers, tables, and accessories their minimalist appear will give your crib a clean, modern touch. |
What type of wine drinker are you?
So, what type of wine consumer are you? The 2005 study of 3,500 premium wine consumers found that there was no typical wine consumer but that they fell into six unique segments:
The Enthusiast, the consumers who are passionate about the entire wine experience from researching buying and sharing wine with friends.
The Image Seeker, who feel sophisticated on one hand and adventurous and trendy on the other. They are just as likely to buy wines with sophisticated labels as well as fun ones.
The Savvy Shopper, who seek great wines at a great price and believe that good wine doesn't have to cost a lot of money.
The Traditionalist, who like wines made by well known wineries who have been around making good wine for a long time.
The Satisfied Sipper, who looks for sensible choices to serve to family and friends.
And finally, The Overwhelmed, who make up the largest group at 23% who find shopping for wine a complex and worry about making a mistake.
If you fall into the "overrwhelmed" category, sign up for our hoilday event series offered on Sundays. |
Implemented by BWI Group at R&D Center
The BWI Group Research and Development Center in Balice, Poland, a northwestern suburb of Kraków, was opened in 2020. From the very beginning, the design of the facility was guided by the idea of maintaining the principles of sustainable development, which was so successful that in the same year the building was awarded first place in the 2020 Prime Property Prize competition in the Green Building category. At the very beginning, good pro-ecological practices were introduced, and the course continues to this day.
The building in which the BWI Group Research and Development Center operates is equipped with a trigeneration combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) system. It is a modern gas-powered power generator enabling optimal management of utilities by heat recovery from the engine, which is used to regulate the temperature in the rooms: heating through a heat exchanger, cooling through an absorption unit. Planned improvements will soon extend the functionality of the system to include heat recovery for cooling machines in laboratory areas. It is here that cogeneration was used for the first time in an office and laboratory unit in the BWI building.
Several other pro-ecological solutions and initiatives have been implemented:
In the common rooms, automatic light sensors have been installed. These sensors regulate consumption depending on the intensity of natural light and the presence of personnel.
Throughout the building, water valves in social rooms automatically shut of in the event of not closing the valve (tap), protecting against the waste of precious water resources.
Air conditioning has been limited to working hours only. This is sufficient to ensure the comfort of room users. In off-hours, air conditioning is shut off.
A flower meadow is maintained in the immediate vicinity of the building, positively impacting the daily functioning of the staff with its greenery and colorful mix of flowers. Interesting insect houses are present next to the meadows, which is very conducive to preserving the natural environment.
For bicycle commuters, BWI Group provides a very spacious shelter with various types of bicycle racks. Cyclists have at their disposal changing rooms, showers, hair dryers and clothes dryers. In addition, many BWI Group employees regularly take part in the annual NCU Bike to Work campaign, in which the most persistent cyclists are rewarded. BWI Group also sponsors riders with cycling T-shirts and sweatshirts.
In May 2023, the first BWI Group Ecology Day was organized. As part of the day, volunteer employee crews cleaned rubbish from the areas directly adjacent to the BWI Group facility. Additionally, 14 new trees of various varieties were planted.
Steps are being taken to eliminate plastic in the facility’s immediate surroundings. Plastic water cups have been replaced with ceramic ones. Employees received a commemorative mug with their initials from the company at the annual company party.
In our company canteen we have placed information about the amount of CO2 generated by the preparation of a specific dish. In this way, we build awareness of the impact that each of us has on the environment.
The company car fleet now includes hybrid vehicles so that employee business trips may be done with an eye towards generating the lowest possible exhaust emissions.
Energy consumption is closely monitored on an ongoing basis so that our facilities operate in the most sustainable and efficient ways possible. For example, test machine operation is optimized to minimize energy consumption and maximize savings.
The facility is certified according to the BREEAM standard, a system used to assess and improve the environmental, social, and economic sustainability of business assets at every lifecycle. |
8 Non-Food Thanksgiving Ideas for Your CACFP Site
November 10, 2022
It’s nearly Thanksgiving, and we know you have a special meal planned, but what about the rest of the day’s celebrations? Delicious turkey and sides are only part of a party! Here are eight other ways to make meaning on the most thankful day of the year.
- Thanksgiving Activity Pages (Members Only) – This activity page includes a creditable recipe for whipped sweet potatoes, coloring pages and more!
- Thanksgiving Activity Page and Parent Newsletter (Members Only) – This resource includes a creditable recipe for turkey sweet potato soup, an adorable craft and a movement activity.
- Corn cob placemat craft - Have children dip corn cobs in paint. Then instruct them to roll corn cobs over construction paper (using corn holders will make this less messy). When dry, they can add leaves or Thanksgiving stickers. Finally, laminate and use these as placemats for your CACFP site Thanksgiving feast!
4. Grateful turkey pumpkin upcycle craft – Let’s face it, you likely still have pumpkins lingering from October. Upcycle those pumpkins into gratitude turkeys by cutting feather shapes from multi-colored construction paper. Ask the children what they’re grateful for and record their answers on the feathers. Glue the feathers to the back of the pumpkin. Add googly eyes and a beak to the front, and you’ve got adorable centerpieces for your Thanksgiving table.
5. Coffee filter turkey craft - Load eyedroppers with colored water. Have the children drop the colored water onto coffee filters. These will be turkey feathers. When dry, help them glue on a circular head, googly eyes, waddle, beak, and feet cutouts.
6. Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet - Enjoy the history behind the world-famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with this true account of how Tony Sarg, the puppeteer, was inspired to create the giant balloons we look forward to every year. (from the publisher)
7. We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga Story by Traci Sorell and Frane Lessac – Discover how the Cherokee Nation expresses gratitude and reflects on challenges they face throughout the seasons. Learn about Native American culture and celebrate with the beautiful artwork in this storybook. (from the publisher)
8. Sing a song! What’s a party without a little music? We love this festive ditty sung to the tune of No More Monkeys Jumping on the Bed:
Five little turkeys
Five little turkeys by the barn door,
One waddled off, then there were four.
Four little turkeys out under the tree,
One waddled off, then there were three.
Three little turkeys with nothing to do.
One waddled off, then there were two.
Two little turkeys in the noonday sun,
One waddled off, then there was one.
One little turkey – better run away!
We hope these fun favorites will help round out your Thanksgiving celebration plans. We’re wishing you a special gathering full of gratitude and joy. Send us photos of your little turkeys having a blast; we love to see them! You can reach us at [email protected] or @NationalCACFP on social media. |
We have four Membership packages available at Caddi Club. All Memberships grant you access to our Club, sessions on the TrackMan simulators, a fully stocked bar and monthly events. Each Membership gives you credits to use the simulators, which are 30minute sessions.
All of our Members are allowed to bring guests along with them during their simulator sessions.
If you want to get a taste of what it's like to be a Member at Caddi Club, please get in touch with our staff to book a Taster Session.
This is our highest level of Membership and for those who want to get the most out of the Club. You have unlimited* sessions on the simulators and four 30minute-long lessons with one of our coaches.
*25 Peak Sessions and 56 Off Peak Sessions per calendar month.
MONTHLY FEE: £290
Our Social Membership is the next level, allowing you to book 8 simulator sessions per month and you get a 30min introductory lesson with one of our in-house coaches.
MONTHLY FEE: £90
The Improver Membership is perfect for those looking to do just that – improve. With 16 simulator sessions per month and two 30minute lessons with a coach, this Membership will (hopefully) improve your game.
MONTHLY FEE: £190
This is our basic Membership, where you can book 4 simulator sessions per month, only during off-peak times.
MONTHLY FEE: £60
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FROM OUR MEMBERS.
Caddi Club has been an absolute game-changer for me as a female golfer. The indoor studio's high-end facilities allow me to practice and improve my game regardless of the weather. The women's nights are a highlight, fostering a strong sense of community among female golfers of all skill levels. The knowledgeable staff and friendly atmosphere make Caddi Club the perfect place for any woman looking to excel in golf and forge lasting connections. |
We publish a whole lot of content here at Cageside Seats. We’re also [looks around and whispers so the bosses can’t hear] not the only place producing wrestling content on the internet. So, as a service to you on the weekdays, we’ll be producing a wrestling newsletter, "Rude Awakening." Well, it will be a newsletter eventually: for now, it’ll just be part of your experience here at Cageside, collecting the news, recaps, and social moments from the greater wrestling universe daily so you won’t fall behind, with a newsletter format to come.
* * *
Pete Dunne is the current United Kingdom Champion in WWE. He’s all of 23 years old, and though he’s just 5-foot-10, he carries himself in a way that makes him seem more menacing than that frame suggests — no one blinks at his nickname, the “Bruiserweight,” and there’s a reason for that.
It’s no surprise, then, that when Dunne was recently asked about his dream opponent, he didn’t go for someone close to his size or tease us with a William Regal match-up that’ll never happen. Nah, Dunne went big, and he went Beastly. (h/t SEScoops for the transcription, original interview at Card Subject to Change):
“The big one for me is Brock Lesnar. I like that you believe in him, because that is him. I try to carry myself that way and I look to someday reach that level. I think it would be a match people wouldn’t expect but it’s one I’d love to have. It’d be a good fight.”
Beast vs. Bruiserweight would be something else. We never get to see Brock Lesnar wrestle smaller guys, as someone else big and strong (John Cena, Roman Reigns, Goldberg) tends to be the opponent. Seth Rollins, at 6-foot-1 and 217 pounds, is the smallest guy Lesnar has faced in awhile — it’s easy to forget that Dean Ambrose is 6-foot-4, an inch taller than Brock is. Dunne’s grinding style could work well against Brock, though, especially since he knows how to take a beating, too.
The outcome would probably be Dunne losing, but even getting to the level where you face Brock Lesnar is a huge achievement. And Dunne isn’t United Kingdom Champion just because: he’s got a ceiling as high as that of anyone showing up on NXT these days. Maybe his dream of staring down Lesnar and having that “good fight” is a realistic one.
- There’s a chance a match planned for WrestleMania 34 could be happening at SummerSlam, but you’ll have to check the Rumor Roundup to see which one. Hey, I’m not spoiling this for everyone.
- Did Becky Lynch give the promo of the year this Tuesday? This Cagesider thinks it has that potential.
- Here is a slow-motion video of Dean Ambrose slicing a watermelon in half.
- Kairi Hojo was in attendance at the latest NXT taping. That’s not a spoiler or anything, she was just watching what was going down.
- Alberto El Patron would like you to know that the main event of Slammiversary is going to be better than Brock Lesnar vs. Samoa Joe, the main of a B-level pay-per-view representing the roster of just one of WWE’s two primary brands.
- It might be easier to believe Alberto if Impact was doing a better job of building to the event and the match.
- Mauro Ranallo is back with WWE, this time with NXT. It’s hard not to read this as a way to keep him in the company but away from JBL.
- If you still don’t like Charlotte Flair, this video has a real good chance of changing that.
- We’ve got five more competitors announced for the Mae Young Classic, including the recently christened Abbey Laith. It’s also worth pointing out that WWE’s website mentioned the former Kimber Lee’s time as the first woman to hold the Chikara Grand Champion. 2017 is wild.
- Netflix’s GLOW isn’t just a great show about wrestling, it’s also a great wrestling show.
- Here’s Marc Maron on how GLOW helped him learn to appreciate pro wrestling.
- And here’s more on GLOW from Paste Magazine, who got a chance to speak with star Alison Brie and others involved in the show. |
It’s been nearly a year since Becky Lynch went away to have a baby, living the family life out there in Iowa with Seth Rollins. Fans are happy for her, of course, but, selfishly, they all want her to come back around again.
Nothing— The Man (@BeckyLynchWWE) April 9, 2021
But it was just a troll.
She never showed up.
But that was just night one! There’s a second night! Maybe ...
Maybe ... just maybe ... she posted that tweet to make sure no one expects her to be there now and it can be more of an actual surprise when her music hits and she actually does show up.
Hey, we can all hope, right?
Follow along with WrestleMania 37 night two later this evening right here. |
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The Telehealth.HHS.gov website provides information about the latest federal efforts to support and promote telehealth services.
INSPIRED BY KNOWLEDGE, POWERED BY PEOPLE
A variety of complex issues exists across the health spectrum.
Fortunately, there also exists an abundance of people with great ideas, but they often operate in isolated pockets.
ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) Colorado, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing everyone’s capacity to manage complex health issues by using technology to bring professionals from all disciplines together, to share knowledge, experiences, and viewpoints with one another.
The National Consortium of Telehealth Resource Centers (NCTRC) is a collaborative of 12 regional and 2 national Telehealth Resource Centers (TRCs), committed to implementing telehealth programs for rural and underserved communities. TRCs are equipped to provide technical assistance, education, and resources on various topics.
Telehealth and virtual care are critical in delivering care. Here's what you need to make it work for your practice, from technology to payment.
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By Nick Klein
As most everyone knows by now, Bob and his team at Vanguard are getting closer to finalizing the next integration of the Real Property Appraisal Manual. These are times where it’s good to look back and see what’s good, bad, and what needs changing. I want to talk today about a few items in CAMAvision that will be changing when people convert to the 2020 Manual. Buried in the Calculations and Pricing Methods screen are three pricing methods related to obsolescence on commercials, and obsolescence and manual level for residential garages.
These calculation method options were put into the program over the years to correct an oversight, add functionality, or accommodate evolving appraisal methods. Vanguard recommends they be turned on (checked), but when added they were defaulted off to minimize value changes. We wanted clients to turn them on when they were ready.
At workshops and User Groups, we’ve taught people about them and recommending they be switched on when the timing is right. When setting up reappraisal projects we ask clients about turning them on. Conversion to the 2020 manual is a good time, too – but you don’t have to wait for the convert to make this switch. Perhaps the timing is good right now.
I know that many clients already have these three pricing methods turned on, so there’s nothing to do, right? It probably wouldn’t hurt to review the other options in the Calculations and Pricing Methods screen. Maybe you’ll see something else in there that could be changed – and the 2020 manual conversion would be a perfect time to do it. Of course, if you’ve got questions these or anything else on Calculations and Pricing Methods screen, feel free to contact your VCS Sales representative or the home office. |
When legendary Hong Kong actor Chow Yun-Fat—of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End fame—announced plans in late 2018 to give away his entire $715 million fortune to charity after his death, the country’s media went into overdrive.
One Hong Kong newspaper called the announcement one of the biggest events in philanthropy to date. Another declared Chow, 63, the most selfless actor in the world and demanded other ultra-high net worth individuals in the region follow suit.
Commentators waded in, pointing out the need for philanthropic giving at a time when the country’s wealth gap has been at its widest for nearly half a century. Some questioned why, with the number of Asian billionaires exploding in the past few years, were there not more ultra-wealthy people in the region helping the less fortunate.
However, this episode wasn’t the first time the generosity of the region’s wealthy had been called into question.
In 2010, when US billionaires Bill Gates and Warren Buffett held a banquet in China to urge fellow tycoons to donate their fortunes to charity, many of their targets didn’t turn up. The incident sparked a fierce debate on social media: were China’s super rich really so stingy?
By some measures, they had been. The World Giving Index 2015, which ranked countries according to their charitable giving, named (and shamed) China and India as two of the least generous countries in the region across all segments of society, even though they had the second and third highest number of billionaires respectively.
China was ranked 144 out of the 145 countries, with only 8% of the nation-wide sample donating to charities, while India ranked 106, with only 20% donating to charities. Consultancy Bain calculated donations of 10 crore rupees ($1.5 million) and above have declined 4% in India since 2014 even as the proportion of the ultra-rich — those with a net worth of over $50 million — grew by 12%. The Global Family Office Report 2018 by Campden Research and UBS found the average Asian family office gave an average of only $1.3 million to philanthropic causes—almost five times less than Europe’s average of $6.4 million.
But with a lack of widespread data available, and no institutional means to collect it, have the accusations levelled at the region been fair?
The numbers don’t tell the full story, according to Johnny Hon, Hong Kong-based philanthropist and chairman of international venture capital company the Global Group. Since establishing Global Group in 1997, Hon has donated to more than 180 charities worldwide and served in senior management and advisory positions on 30 major charities.
“It’s a misunderstanding that Asian people have not been philanthropic up to now,” Hon says.
“Such a sense of obligation is deeply rooted in traditional Chinese culture and in Islam also, zakat—essentially charitable giving—is one of the pillars of the religion.
“The issues have been that, from the beginning of the 19th century until relatively recently, the region has been poor compared to the west and also, Eastern philanthropy has been more focused on one’s extended family, clansmen, village, or hometown.”
It is a view many ultra-wealthy tycoons agree with. At the height of the Gates and Buffett’s dinner criticism, one invitee, Zong Qinghou retorted that giving should be a private choice and objected to being shamed by the West into “giving for the sake of publicity”.
Data gathering in the space is difficult due to the desire to be more private, coupled with a lack of government regulations in the sector, says Ruth Shapiro, chief executive of Hong Kong-based non-profit Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society (CAPS).
CAPS chose to rely on non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and social enterprises, rather than philanthropists to fill out the surveys for their inaugural Doing Good Index (DGI) in 2018. These limitations, she says, have made it difficult to chart the exact scale and scope of philanthropy in the region.
“Any report that tells you actual numbers coming from this part of the world, really needs to be questioned,” Shapiro says.
“Most giving has been low-key and done through companies of donors so it is hard to pin down real numbers about the sector.
“However, it is starting to change because people are more aware that they themselves can be influential in changing the marketplace—you’ve got Jack Ma at Alibaba and Pony Ma at Tencent retiring to become full-time philanthropists, saying, ‘We’re engaged in philanthropy in a big way, and so can you’.”
Indeed, such is the appetite for philanthropic giving among Asia’s wealthy, that Shapiro’s research into the region’s charitable giving is being funded by a handful of leading philanthropists, including Ronnie Chan, Daniel Tsai, and Ratan Tata, keen to improve the quality and quantity of philanthropy in the region.
Pick your battles
Unsurprisingly, philanthropy in the 15 economies included in the DGI differed greatly. Noor Quek, founder and chief executive of Singapore-based multi family office NQ International says the differences tend to be based on the economic development of the country in question.
“In India, for example, there is poor sanitation in rural areas so philanthropists wanting to donate in that country will tend to lean towards basic needs. In more developed countries such as Singapore, Japan, and Korea, giving is more towards education, advanced health, the arts, and environment,” Quek says.
“You would not get someone flying in to treat cataracts in those countries because it is not necessary, but you would find that in Vietnam or Laos.”
One overarching trend CAPS’ DGI found, however, is many traditional donors in the region—tycoons giving away tens or even hundreds of millions of US dollars—are working with local NGOs to tackle poverty and inequality in the region.
Peter Bennett, founder of the Hong Kong-based Peter Bennett Foundation, says growing up in Hong Kong in the 1950s and 1960s made him acutely aware of the disparity of wealth around him. Like other wealth holders in the region, he was taught to “give back” to the less fortunate.
“Going to a local school I was taught that we all need to be aware that we are part of a community and we need to take care of everyone in the community—it’s a lesson I believe all children from this region are exposed to and we carry that with us into adulthood,” Bennett says.
After a successful career in banking and hedge fund management, he founded his family foundation to reduce poverty. Bennett’s foundation supports 10 charity organisations in Hong Kong and six in South-East Asia, who all pitched themselves to the foundation and he personally reviewed.
“We do not go out looking for funding applications—people come to us from time to time and we will have a look and see if it is worthwhile to visit,” Bennett says.
“The small number we think, ‘Wow, these guys are genuine in what they are trying to do and they are doing it in a way that is intelligent, thoughtful and cost efficient’—those are the ones we support.”
Christopher Lavender, director of a Hong Kong-based family foundation, says like Bennett, his foundation prefers to support local NGOs because they can be relied upon to put their fund to best use at the point of need.
“We found international NGOs to be bureaucratic, wasteful and sometimes rather inefficient. All the major funding problems we have had in the last 22 years have all been with NGOs because they have been somewhat distant from the actual implementation on the ground and things have gone wrong,” Lavender says.
His foundation now focuses on working with small domestic NGOs on about 100 community projects in rural areas in developing countries in South-East Asia, Nepal, Burma, India, Bangladesh, China, and Hong Kong.
When finding NGOs to work with, Lavender says rather than wading through funding applications, his foundation prefers to use personal networks and recommendations.
“We do things a bit differently—we decided early on not to have a foundation website because we did not want people ‘hitting’ on us, we wanted to be proactive and target the ones whose goals we shared,” Lavender says.
“Now so many people know us, and know what we like, and the standards we like, they refer possible partner NGOs to us.”
And Lavender is not alone. Relying on personal networks and family connections to find local charities to work with is the go-to approach in the region, Quek says.
“For [Asian] philanthropists, relationships are often the only means by which one can conduct due diligence,” she says.
“There are a lot of trust issues so using personal networks and family connections is what most donors fall back on.”
A fine balance
The biggest issue preventing many philanthropists from giving more is a lack of trust in the social sector, says Shapiro.
Out of the 15 economies in the DGI, 10 of them said they had front page scandals in the last two years, which had significantly affected giving.
“The problem with the region is that there are not really any formal mechanisms to do due diligence on the supply or demand side of philanthropy and both are very opaque,” she says.
But Lavender says, most dangers can be largely avoided by using a hands-on approach to control the progress of a project.
“The problem in all the countries we fund in is that there are varying degrees of corruption so we spend a lot of time making sure we are working with good partners—checking their references, making regular field visits, encouraging frequent communication and building confidence, to ensure that the agreed project objectives are being met,” Lavender says.
Lavender says his foundation uses customised application forms that seek clear objectives and milestones they can use to evaluate progress.
“My view is that the hallmark of better philanthropy is bringing business practice into the process, our bottom lines are social rather than financial but they are clearly identified and measurable by milestones built into the proposal.
“We distribute funding on a six-month basis and our partner NGOs are required to put in a financial and narrative report before we release the next set of funds,” he says.
Well aware of the potential pitfalls in the sector, governments across Asia have also started to reform their laws and tax codes, strengthen non-profit transparency mechanisms, and provide more tax incentives for charitable giving, all with the aim of boosting local philanthropy.
China’s recent NGO Law placed foreign donor’s activities under close state supervision and created additional layers of regulations to navigate. At the same time the government put in place a new Charity Law, which focuses on domestic philanthropy and charities. It was largely welcomed by local NGOs for making the previously opaque rules more transparent.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong has given less tax subsidies, but gives philanthropists the freedom to donate to any cause they want. This has led to many top universities in the US and UK benefitting from donations, but has been criticised for not encouraging local causes.
Stacey Choe, director of the Asia Philanthropy Circle, says the stark differences in approach show Asian governments have been “doing a dance” with philanthropy and the social sector to find the right balance between too much and too little regulation.
“Regulation is like cholesterol—there is good regulation and there is bad regulation,” Choe says.
“Governments tightening regulation will help the sector become more transparent, but they also have to be careful they do not make things so difficult that donors decide to go elsewhere.
“On the other hand, letting philanthropists do whatever they want could lead to foreign firms funding terrorism and money being laundered all under the guise of charitable giving.”
Such efforts by Asian governments to encourage philanthropic giving are relatively new. In the past, government officials, especially in China, often questioned the need for philanthropy, believing it to be the government’s role to provide basic services to the people.
But now governments are coming to realise that private money can help them achieve their public service goals and have started working with philanthropists on certain projects.
In India, the government enacted the Indian Companies Act 2013 requiring companies with annual revenues of more than $150 million to give at least 2% of their net profits to specific charities.
Leena Dandekar, founder of India-based Raintree Family Foundation, says while there were initial criticisms over the law, six years later it is now seen as a positive tool that has encouraged a culture of giving.
“Since the law came into effect, there has been over $7 billion raised for charitable projects and long-term initiatives have been set up,” Dandekar says.
“This law is purely a corporate endeavour to give back to society rather than traditional philanthropy, but the government championing it has given [philanthropists] encouragement.”
Bennett agrees that governments play a big role in encouraging philanthropists to continue their work, but believes the relationship can develop further.
“Informally the government already encourages us to contribute by giving a tax deduction—that’s their way of saying, ‘Yes, we want you to be doing this’,” says Bennett.
“But beyond that, our work can be mutually beneficial because [philanthropists] have the chance to take risks with our giving and support new models of change that government cannot.
“So we can take those risks for them, put up the initial costs to get a project up and running and, if it goes well, the government can then step in and match funding or take it over themselves.”
And this is where the role of philanthropists now lies, says Shapiro. As the region witnesses a growing gap between rich and poor, governments previously hesitant about the role of private players in the delivery of much-needed social services, are now looking to philanthropy to help fill the gaps.
“There is an enormous potential to do more in the region and, as we can see, there is new energy and enthusiasm in the sector among governments and philanthropists wanting to make meaningful change,” she says.
“With both sides looking to improve the space together, and more wealth in the region than ever, Asia can definitely be a world leader in philanthropy.” |
Around the campsite in South Finistère
The historic town of Pont-l’Abbé was described by Maupassant as “ the most Breton of all the towns in Breton Brittany “. It’s in this land of legends, in the heart of the Bigouden region, that the famous headdress has grown in stature, honoring the skills of the embroiderers. Discover Pont L’abbé during your next stay in South Finistère.
Visit Pont l’Abbé
From the quays, built from the stones of the ancient walls, narrow streets lead to the Gothic church of Notre-Dame des Carmes. This is the only vestige of a convent founded in the 14th century. In the chapel, typical of “mendicant” architecture, you can admire the luminous 19th-century stained glass windows. The original rose windows are set in a large granite lace. The streets and squares are dotted with mansions built in the 16th and 17th centuries by local gentlemen. But most of the beautiful homes were built in the 19th century by a bourgeoisie established in the potato trade. This trading tradition still animates the Thursday market, the largest in Cornouaille, as well as the many stores lining the alleyways.
How to get to Pont l’Abbé from the campsite
Want to reach Pont l’Abbé during your stay at La Forêt Fouesnant campsite? To reach this Finistère town, allow around 30 minutes from your rental or pitch. Halfway along the route, you can also stop off at Bénodet, or continue on to Loctudy. |
When thinking about the role religion plays in the world, it is important to look beyond examples of religious conflict. This is not to say that religious differences do not lead to contention, because they sometimes do. It is to say that religions do not inherently and inevitably lead to conflict, and religious division is not necessarily violent or negative as a force in the world. In fact, religious institutions play a catalytic role in social progress, serving as a common unifying force to mobilize people.
There is not a single violent conflict that can be explained in purely religious terms. Individuals within a society are far too complex to ascribe any specific behaviors solely to the influence of one force. Socioeconomic, cultural and political factors deeply impact both the role and development of religion it is never the sole cause of any succession of events.
Overall, religion has been a force for good. Many of the great social activists in recent times have been deeply inspired by religious faith and communities. This long list of leaders includes the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, Mohandas Gandhi, Thich Nhat Hanh, and the Dalai Lama. Not only are these individuals all activists, but many of them collaborated with each other in fighting for various social causes in their communities.
Religion can also be a powerful tool for organizing. The Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF) is a very powerful and secular network of grassroots community organizing affiliates. IAF came to Rochester in the weeks following the riots of July 1964 to help the African-American community organize. In Rochester and all around the country, the IAF has often worked with religious communities to produce change, taking advantage of previously existing structures of unity and organization. As this outreach demonstrates, religion clearly offers utility to diverse societies by spiritually empowering and physically organizing people who need to make their voices heard.
Religion does not simply increase cohesion within groups that already derive unity from other sources. It can also be an interface for solidarity and amity that is indiscriminate to divisions such as ethnicity, race, land, language and economic standing. Recent examples include the outpouring of support from religious communities to areas ravaged by natural disaster regardless of who would benefit. Religions have traditionally offered services to promote literacy, economic development and access to medical care.
Faith can also drive science and innovation, as the improvement of the human condition is a goal shared by many religions. Because of its relevance to understanding people and their behavior, religion offers an additional bridge between the known and unknown. As instruments of academic examination, faith-based histories and paradigms can provide insight into other disciplines such as history, psychology and other social sciences.
Conflict on some level often predicates learning and change. A leading theory in social psychology is that of cognitive dissonance, the motivation to reduce the uncomfortable feeling of holding two conflicting ideas simultaneously by changing or rationalizing attitudes, beliefs and behaviors. Dialogue across lines of religious divergence offers a platform for that kind of growth. In fact, to deny conflict in all forms is to deny the beauty of human diversity and community. Philip Hellmich, Senior Officer for Strategic Philanthropy at Search for Common Ground, noted that when conflict ‘is approached constructively, it is an engine of growth and transformation.”
As social beings we must learn from each other in order to grow as people and as a society. In this pluralistic world, religion is a source of diversity and we must hesitate to assign too much of society’s problems on this vast and complex category. The challenge of our time is not to eliminate our differences, but rather to utilize and appreciate them.
Written on behalf of
Students for Interfaith Action.
Ashan is a member of
the class of 2011.
Slater is a member of
the class of 2010. |
December 21st, 2012
Christmas has become a high-tech operation that is executed with precision by Santa every year. Santa’s oldest son Steve oversees the advanced technology and complex operations that go into to delivering presents to all of the boys and girls of the world, while his other son Arthur contents himself responding to the letters sent to Santa every year. When one Christmas Santa accidentally forgets to deliver a toy to a little girl, Santa and his sons must do everything they can to make sure this mistake is fixed and Christmas is saved.
Categories: Channels & Shows |
It's All About Boat Shipping!
There are many ways to ship a boat (or yacht or vessel), and Forbes has a great article on how the process is done and what you need to do to prepare for having your boat shipped.
Read the article here - Boat Shipping
Capt My Capt has 30 professional Master Captains at your service for all kinds of vessel relocation, whether from the Caribbean to the UK, Minneapolis to New Orleans, or Miami to Brooklyn. Let the pros handle your "baby" while you relax and enjoy life with your family! |
Sometimes it so happens that even after successfully installing the Chinese KitKat firmware on international Honor 3C (H30-U10), you encounter a strange network issue that results in total loss of signals with ‘No Service’ onscreen message. This is actually engendered by the loss of phone’s IMEI data during the installation of unofficial ROMs/firmwares. The good thing is that you can easily bring back this IMEI with a minor patch using our concise step-by-step tutorial given in this article below.
Fix Missing IMEI (No Service) Issue on Honor 3C
1. Using Custom Recovery
- Int’l Huawei Honor 3C – H30-U10 variant with Chinese KitKat ROM
- A USB cable and VCOM driver installed on PC (download here – size: 9.57 MB)
- Live TWRP custom recovery (download here – size: 8 MB)
- Honor 3C flashable KitKat modem patch (download for China | Malaysia)
- In order to flash the Modem patch, you need to have a custom recovery like TWRP or CWM first. Live TWRP Recovery is one great workaround for these purposes (however, it only works on Jelly Bean and up to v4.9.16 KitKat)
- Extract the downloaded “Live TWRP Honor3C.zip” on your PC.
- Copy the extracted “dload” folder (containing update.app and au_temp.cfg) to the root directory of your phone’s SD card i.e. without placing it inside any folder. If the SD card already contains dload then replace that with this one.
- Also copy the “Fix IMEI Honor3C.zip” package to the dload directory.
- Next, Reboot your phone normally. You’ll automatically be directed to TWRP recovery upon boot.
- Tap “Install” and then navigate to Sdcard → dload → Fix IMEI Honor3C.zip. Make sure “Zip file signature verification” is unchecked. Swipe to confirm.
- Once it gets completed navigate to Home → Advanced → File Manager → Sdcard → dload and delete the file named “au_temp.cfg”.
- Swipe to confirm the delete and finally reboot the phone in normal mode.
Note: If you’re using >v4.10.1 KitKat firmware or the new EMUI 3.0 then Live TWRP probably won’t work and you’ll have to flash a permanent CWM/TWRP recovery on your device.
2. Using Mobileuncle Tool
If the first method didn’t work or you’re using a newer firmware then you can attempt to rewrite both the IMEIs using Mobileuncle MTK IMEI Write Tool but you’ll need root access for this. Here’s how you do it.
- Download IMEI Write Tool v1.2 and extract it on your computer.
- Now open the tool, you’ll see most of the text in strange chars as it is mainly written in Chinese.
- Type “Y” and press enter. It’ll then prompt you to enter the IMEIs.
- Next, type the first IMEI number and hit enter (IMEI numbers are usually written on the back of the phone under the battery).
- After that write the second IMEI number in the input field and finally press. You’ll now see a file named “IMEI.bak” in Mobileuncle’s folder.
- Transfer “IMEI.bak” to the root directory of your phone’s SD card.
- Download Mobileuncle MTK Tool app on your phone and install it
- Run the Mobileuncle app, go to IMEI Backup and Restore and choose “IMEI.bak”.
The no service issue should now be fixed. Wait for a few minutes before the phone searches for signals. If there’s still any problem feel free to comment about it below!
Like this post? Hit the share buttons below to share this article with your friends on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter. |
Grand Isle County, Lake Champlain
|Vermont's Northern Gateway, a region which figured in the history of Samuel de Champlain, Ethan and Ira Allen, Commodore McDonough, and Rogers Rangers. Ideal boating, fishing and swimming. Excellent tourist accommodations. See the sun rise over the Green Mountains and set over the Adirondacks. |
New Baby Flying Fox Pop-up Grande 3D Card Baby
New Baby Flying Fox Pop-up Grande 3D Card Baby Pictura USA Greeting Cards
These cards look great both closed and open. When open, the design "pops up" to reveal a beautifully crafted piece of artwork finished with foil, glitter or embossing. The perfect addition to any gift!
- Size: 6.3" x 6.3" (Folded)
- Pop-up cards with envelope wrapped in cello
- Blank inside to allow for your own message
- Each card can stand up on its own when opened due to its smart 3-fold design structure.
Refinements: Laser die-cutting, Foil, Embossing
Outside Text: Hello Baby
Designed in France |
Salesforce AI Engineer
***El Comeback is a non-profit program from ConPRmetidos that attracts and retains professional talent for Puerto Rico-based jobs. Register at elcomebackpr.org/registration-form to get matched with professional opportunities on the island. Candidates' searches for positions posted by El Comeback are done on behalf of companies that we support in their search for candidates.***
Our partner, a fully funded large start-up is hiring a Salesforce AI Engineer. This position is responsible for AI solutions development, data integration, automation, reporting, compliance and security. This position will work closely with cross-functional teams to enhance CRM capabilities, and drive business growth.
- Design, develop, and implement AI solutions tailored to the Salesforce CRM platform.
- Develop and implement AI-driven automation solutions for repetitive tasks.
- Customize Salesforce using Apex, Visual force, Lightning Components, and other tools.
- Create dashboards and reports to track AI-driven insights.
- Ensure AI solutions and data handling within Salesforce adhere to compliance and security standards.
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field.
- Proven experience in developing AI solutions within the Salesforce ecosystem.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, or Apex.
- Experience with AI platforms and tools such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Salesforce Einstein
- Salesforce certifications are a plus.
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Worried About Falling? If You’re Over 45, You Should Be.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports the No. 1 reason for adults over the age of 45 visiting the emergency room is—you guessed it: FALLS. If you are a woman over the age of 45, you have a higher risk of falling than men of the same age. While the chances of injury due to a fall at this age is relatively low, your chances of falling again doubles and injury risk increases with age.
Have you suffered from falling before?
One in four adults 65 and older fall each year. Many people fear falls because they lead to injury and a loss of independence. This steers people to not report their falls to their family or their doctor. In fact, of the one in four adults that fall each year, less than half report the fall.
Most falls can be prevented. Talking to the doctor is the first step in preventing falls.
Top reasons for falls
True or false: People fall because they age. FALSE.
People fall because of other underlying reasons: some linked to physical conditions, medical problems, medications, and even safety hazards in and around the home.
Many falls are caused by these factors:
- Muscle weakness
- Poor balance
- Foot problems
- Vision problems
- Clutter or hazards in or around your home
Lots of these can cause you to fall at any age. In fact, there are some studies suggesting risk assessment on falls should begin at age 45, not 65 for adults.
Tips to prevent falls and stay independent
Talk to your doctor
Your doctor might suggest a falls assessment, changes to medication or supplements, new eyewear prescriptions, physical therapy, and possibly a walking aid. Your doctor should know about any falls you have had and if you’re worried about falling
Begin strength and balance exercises
Exercise helps prevent falls by strengthening your muscles and improving your balance. Tai chi and qi gong are two popular Chinese movement exercises known for improving balance, coordination, and flexibility. Learn more about these alternative therapy options for balance here.
Looking for other exercises to improve your muscle strength? Try doing some of these each day to keep your balance and strength.
Plus, Care Partners of Connecticut HMO and PPO members can use their SilverSneakers benefit to stay fit!
Update your eyesight
Have you had your eyes checked recently? Visit your optometrist once a year so you can update your eyeglasses. Make sure you have glasses if you need them or have the correct prescription for the glasses you do have. Poor vision and conditions like glaucoma and cataracts can increase your chances of falling. Learn cataract symptoms and some ways to slow cataract growth here.
Update your home to allow for clear pathways, remove loose rugs and cords, keep stairs free from clutter, and install bright lights, grab bars, and railings in and around your home.
Do you worry about or have a fear of falling?
Many people do. Six out of ten falls happen in the home. Use this checklist to make sure you are doing everything you can to prevent falls in and around your home.
Contact our Care Management Team to learn more about fall prevention and whether a no-cost in-home safety assessment is right for you. A Care Manager is available to all CarePartners of Connecticut members at no cost. For more information about working with a Care Manager, call Member Services at 1-888-341-1507 (TTY: 711) |
Whether you are an online business owner or you are a website owner, you most definitely need to have a good checkout cart. Integrate Mailchimp To SamCart
And it makes perfect sense if you are offering digital items such as online courses, ebooks, software downloads, consulting services, membership, or coaching programs the checkout process you require is completely different.
SamCart supplies every little thing you requires to process deals in your business. It’s easy to utilize, it can connect with lots of software and applications, and it has incredible customer support.
SamCart is a reliable solution to sell digital items and optimizes your sales funnel so you make the most sales. Not just that SamCart has advanced split testing attributes that aided many entrepreneurs to make even more sales.
Make certain to read this article till the end to find out just how SamCart can help your online business.
What Is Exactly SamCart? Integrate Mailchimp To SamCart
SamCart is an online checkout software that enables company owners to produce conversion-optimized shopping carts with one-click upsell, order bump, subscription, and payment plan abilities that are developed to maximize profits from every sale and boost conversions, sales, and boost earnings.
It is an easy add-on that helps you to take advantage of every sale by enhancing the checkout web page experience, in order to get greater conversion rates from your sales page.
This is so real where tons of clients that add products to the cart on your website will at some point abandon the cart. And this case, Samcart can assist you to convert these clients to raise your sales by recognizing how a sales funnel and web page funnel is working.
SamCart is prominent with their checkout page templates that have actually been carefully checked and shown to convert much better than their rivals. If you offer products or services online, you want to make sure that you are maximizing your conversions, and SamCart can aid you to do that.
Convenience Of Using SamCart Integrate Mailchimp To SamCart
One of the greatest factors that SamCart has been able to grow so swiftly is that they offer a lot of attributes that help online retailers to make more money.
Whether you are running an online shopping store or offering information products, these attributes will certainly help you to make even more profit.
Now, let’s go over exactly how you can apply SamCart to your business and attain the same results.
Beautiful Checkout Page Layouts
SamCart has a fantastic checkout software that can produce high converting checkout layouts. The checkout web page template collection has tons of design choices to select from.
What I like the most regarding these templates is that they are easy and clear, and their design is verified to convert even more website visitors right into paying consumers.
Its checkout pages are very easy for the individual to navigate and input their purchasing details.
Samcart is very adjustable. Where you can easily customize the templates by altering the fonts and shades of the header, footer, and CTA(Click-To-Action) buttons.
You can likewise choose the areas that you intend to include and you can add customized bullet points to define the product your consumer is purchasing. The ease of use is awesome.
SamCart enables checkout templates to do a wonderful job of displaying your physical items and processing orders on one sales page.
Furthermore, you can do a split testing on your checkout styles in just a few clicks to make certain you are getting as much value from every visitor as feasible at your checkout pages.
Cross-selling is an approach to market products that relate to the one the customer currently acquired. If a client buys a car from you, an order bump would certainly be automobile insurance or gasoline.
The goal right here is to substantially enhance the average order value on sales pages by permitting clients to add another product at checkout prior to clients enter their credit card details to make the acquisition.
It is quite the same as the idea of product bundling where you group the major item and related products together to raise the profits on each sale.
One fine example would certainly be McDonald’s where they apply this idea by selling burgers at the most inexpensive price with low revenue and offer fries as a order bump deal to make a greater revenue.
You can utilize the order bump feature if you are releasing your products or services for the very first time.
With SamCart you can amend the cross-selling offers by altering the descriptions and make them outstanding with fonts, bold, point form, and more.
1 Click Upsells
SamCart makes the upsell of items so easy by utilizing an upsell funnel.
The idea of upselling is to encourage your customers to buy various other items with one click after they have completed their initial acquisitions.
Upselling is critical because when you are marketing items online, and you are not using upsells then you are leaving a great deal of cash on the table. Chances are that you do not have the chance to make additional offers to your clients during the checkout process.
And if you wait until after your consumer has left your checkout page to sell to them, you will require to go through several sales processing steps to get them to get again.
In an online retail environment, upsells are an essential component of enhancing your sales funnel and producing added profits, merely by providing the client with an added services or products when they checkout.
This can be something of a higher or reduced price, nevertheless, the effectiveness depends on the capacity to create these upsell promptly and additionally track the success chance of each upsell so you can optimize accordingly. And SamCart is doing an incredible job in this aspect. Integrate Mailchimp To SamCart
It is well known that many people split test their opt-in pages, email subject title, sales pages yet, they do not split test on the checkout web page.
As soon as you begin making sales, split testing is important to expand your business and it can be one of the cheapest and quickest ways to enhance earnings and conversion rates.
SamCart’s live A/B testing enables you to conveniently recognize your most rewarding service or products and upsells and give them the attention they are entitled to.
On the planet of shopping carts, this is remarkable. Let’s assume that you have a 90% abandonment rate or more and your spit-test provides you one added customer, you will efficiently increase your sales.
SamCart allows you to amend almost any kind of setting you desired in order to evaluate any kind of combination. As an example, you can experiment with multiple mix of areas.
Once you have your variants developed, SamCart instantly checks between your variants. You don’t have to do anything other than watch the results. You can head over to the A/B Test area in the product’s setups to see exactly how the variants are performing.
As soon as you discover a victor, SamCart permits you to quickly eliminate the non-performing. The only element you won’t be able to split-test with SamCart is the item’s price. If you intend to do that, you’ll have to develop 2 various products and run an examination in between those 2 products.
Payment Plans Capability Integrate Mailchimp To SamCart
Payment plans are one more great function that permits you to provide your clients the capacity to pay for acquisitions over an amount of time.
This can be applied to premium products or services, where the difficulty for numerous customers is the price and affordability. When you add in the choice to break up the repayments, you can draw in a new team of consumers.
Based on the SamCart assistance database, by including a payment plan option on your checkout page, you will certainly be able to convert more consumers, increase sales or conversions.
SamCart permits you to offer your clients the ability to include several different payment choices such as recurring settlements on a weekly, monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis onto a single checkout page.
The one-page checkout takes multiple payments to an entirely new level since it maintains visitors on the page while they decide just how to pay. If you have actually ever before offered anything online, you recognize how crucial it is to keep your site visitors on the page.
Add Coupons and Discounts Code
SamCart states that 65% of customers say the availability of vouchers finalized their purchasing choice. I am sure you can see that this is HUGE.
Consumers love coupons. It’s thrilling. It’s exciting. And it helps them to save cash on the things we love to purchase. As for organizations, it’s an excellent way to obtain a fast jump in sales.
By taking advantage of the discount functionality of SamCart, you can supply price cuts at whatever rate you choose to tempt buyers who are on the fence.
While numerous companies utilize vouchers, 80% of consumers stated they would certainly favor coupons to be immediately applied to their acquisitions. SamCart enables you to send your consumers to a web page with a pre-applied coupon or discount code.
It is effective for those that do email advertising. It can be also made use of with trial deals, where consumers can capitalize on both free and paid trial offers, which work very well for physical products, service-based organizations, and online courses.
The coupon or discount code you have created will be live and ready to use in seconds. You can develop several sorts of discount or coupon codes, daily, once a week, monthly, or lifetime value to be given away to your customers.
Affiliate Management Software
Among the very best features of marketing items online is that you can employ a large team of affiliates to advertise your products and services.
You do not have to spend time or advertising expenses to advertise your own products and services. If you can obtain affiliates to promote, you only pay them when they generate a sale for you.
SamCart allows you to create your very own personal group of affiliates that will sell your products for you with the affiliate software. SamCart immediately generates an affiliate registration web page for you. This is where people can submit to advertise your services or products.
You will obtain a web link to this web page, so you can send it out to potential affiliates, release it on your website, or send it out to your email listing.
When a potential affiliate sends their application, they will certainly be shown a message that their account is pending authorization. When that takes place, you will certainly obtain a notice that they applied via email. It will likewise consist of buttons to authorize or refute the individual’s application. You can additionally establish it up to automatically accept affiliates if you desire.
SamCart’s default affiliate commission rate is 50%. You can personalize this commission rate to whatever you desire. You can pay your affiliates a fixed rate of commission or a percent. The most effective technique is by raising the affiliate payout for top-performing affiliates to provide a motivation to market a lot more.
Advantages Integrate Mailchimp To SamCart
- Supports bump offers and upsells.
- Clean and very easy to navigate interface.
- Better control over coupons or discount rates.
- Durable A/B testing built on checkout cart.
- Integrates with most typical tools and solutions.
- Good affiliate management center
- Adaptable payment options such as subscriptions and strategies.
- Can get pricey if you need affiliate system.
- No integrated electronic sales tax estimation.
- A little confusing for offering services yet feasible.
I wish you appreciate the blog post and with any luck, it helps you to comprehend far better regarding Integrate Mailchimp To SamCart.
However, if you are offering physical products, then it is the very best choice for that purpose. And if you are marketing physical products it is feasible to make use of SamCart as well.
SamCart is somewhat costly compared to its rivals. Nonetheless, SamCart is regularly improving the quality of service and has actually made several enhancements when it first introduced.
If you are currently considering testing out SamCart, they do provide a complimentary 14-day trial.
This suggests that you can try them out definitely cost-free, and if they do not make you even more money than your current purchasing cart after that you can cancel at any day.
And also, they have a 30-day 100% money-back policy anyhow, this will further reduce your risk.
Frequently Asked Questions Integrate Mailchimp To SamCart
Q. What is SamCart specifically?
A. SamCart is software that offers you an impressive checkout experience with an extraordinary checkout platform shopping cart that makes it very easy to offer things like upselling, order bumping, payment options, pricing choices, subscriptions, and split testing. Making use of SamCart, you can develop membership websites with a repayment structure.
Q. Is SamCart legit?
A. Yes, SamCart is 100% legit where numerous digital business owners and organizations use SamCart as a result of its efficiency and simplicity of use. This is justified by many positive reviews on SamCart about how its unbelievable features and functions can upscale a business successfully.
It was founded by Brian Moran and Scott Moran in 2013 and today it has expanded to end up being an expert in the shopping cart.
Q. Does SamCart offer a totally free trial?
A. Yes, SamCart does offer a cost-free trial. Based on their prices web page, SamCart offers a no-strings-attached 2 week cost-free trial of each of their plans.
Q. Does SamCart connect with Shopify?
A. Yes, SamCart can be integrated with Shopify seamlessly. The procedure is very easy and it requires absolutely zero coding experience.
Q. How much does SamCart cost you?
A. There are 3 various price plans for SamCart. The Launch Plan costs $49 monthly and consists of everything you need to begin. The Grow Plan at $99 a month, includes features like upsells, and one of the most expensive Scale Plan at $199 month consists of the affiliate management software. You can see the full pricing details here.
Q. Exactly how do I cancel my SamCart account?
A. To terminate your SamCart account you need to speak to SamCart support via the live chat within the SamCart dashboard or conversely, you can send them an email to [email protected]. The assistance team is very helpful. |
During winter, carpets can come under attack from numerous different sources. So, in order to make sure your carpets are protected from potential damage, follow these useful tips.
1. Add mats to entrances
Winter weather can wreak havoc on a carpet, so make sure it doesn’t come into contact with ice, snow, soggy leaves, grit and salt from outdoors, which can damage carpet fibres. You might also receive more visitors during the festive period, which means more dirt potentially getting walked into a carpet.
To avoid winter weather damaging your carpets, place a protective mat by all entrances, so that shoes can be wiped before stepping inside. Don’t forget to get into the habit of taking footwear off, as well, before entering the house.
You can prevent the worst of the winter weather being tracked indoors on your footwear by making sure outside areas, such as driveways and pathways leading up to your property, are kept clean and free from dirt and debris.
2. Spills and stains
During the festive season, in particular, you might receive a flurry of visitors to your home, and may even celebrate the turn of a New Year with a gathering of friends. With more people at home, the end result could be a carpet that bears the brunt of mulled wine spillages, chocolate and mince pie smears, and other spills and stains.
If you’re hosting a get-together, consider moving your gathering to the kitchen or a space that doesn’t have carpeted floors, or add a protective sheet or cover to a carpet. If spillages do occur, tackle them straight away.
Offices and retail spaces may also experience increased footfall during the winter season, especially in the run-up to Christmas, so cleaning carpets regularly can ensure their appearance won’t start to suffer.
3. Christmas tree care
Many people adorn their homes with a real Christmas tree over the festive period, but before you get carried away with decorating it, make sure your carpet won’t come to any harm. It’s vital that the tree is placed in a proper container of the right size, and that there is no risk of any water leaking out onto the carpet. You might wish to place a waterproof mat under the tree container, but avoid using one where the colour might bleed if the mat does get wet, such as with felt.
If you’ve got presents placed under the tree, take care when watering the tree, so that no water spills onto the gifts and potentially causes the dye in wrapping paper to run onto the carpet.
Pine needles can be notorious for dropping and getting stuck inside carpet fibres, and a standard vacuum cleaner doesn’t always pick them up effectively. A rubber broom or brush is often better at getting rid of dropped pine needles, so keep on top of this throughout the festive season.
Plus, keep an eye out for any tree sap, which may have dropped onto a carpet, making a sticky mess. Remove it immediately with a mix of water and alcohol, dabbed onto a clean cloth.
4. Candle safety
Dark nights and cold days call for cosy candlelight, but if candle wax ends up on a carpet, it can spoil the occasion. Take care when lighting candles and always place them in a container or on a holder to prevent wax from spilling onto a carpet.
Should it be too late to heed the warning, there are steps you can take to try to remove wax from a carpet. First you need to let it harden, and then try to carefully remove as much of it as possible with a blunt knife. To remove the residues, many people swear by placing a warm iron over a brown paper bag, covering the waxy area. The heat from the iron should encourage the bag to absorb the remainder of the wax. However, do take care with any DIY candle wax removal attempts, as some fabrics might melt or suffer damage. If in doubt, call up the carpet cleaning London experts.
5. Fireplace rugs
Nothing beats a real fire when it’s cold outside, but before you get carried away with basking in the glow and appealing warmth, make sure that sparks and embers from the fire can’t fly out of the hearth and damage a carpet. Place a guard around the fire, and add a rug to the fireplace to keep the carpet underneath protected. It’s far easier and cheaper to replace a rug that may suffer from damage than to get a new carpet.
There are lots of different styles and types of hearth rugs to choose from, so finding something you like should be easy.
6. Avoid sun damage
It might seem strange to concern yourself with sun damage to your carpet during the colder months of the year, but it’s still something that you need to think about. This is because the sun is much lower in the sky during winter, which means it can shine into your home and onto your carpet for longer, potentially causing carpet colours to fade. What can you do to prevent this? Consider adding blinds to windows so you can adjust them according to the light levels.
7. Prevent water damage
During winter, and icy weather, in particular, pipes have a habit of freezing over and may potentially burst when they start to thaw out. If frozen pipes burst over a carpet it will not only cause a lot of inconvenience, but it could ruin the carpet completely. You can prevent pipes from freezing over by maintaining a low constant heat, especially if you’re going away. Plus, get your boiler frequently serviced, and insulate any vulnerable pipes.
8. Schedule in regular cleaning
Because of the increased footfall in your home or business over winter and the festive period, as well as the higher risk of carpets becoming dirty, it makes sense to schedule in regular carpet cleaning from the professionals. This is especially important after any parties and events, to clear up any mess and spills, and after the festive decorations have been taken down and put away for another year. |
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If you’re a businessman trying to source items or items from The far east, then you’re in the perfect place! Among the best techniques for getting started off is to work with an expert transfer business like Jasa Import China. They may help you travel through the complexities of importing in the Chinese market place, and find the appropriate provider to your organization. With this article, we will spotlight why is Jasa Import China special and why you ought to consider their professional services.
1. Jasa Import China has extensive experience of importing from China. This implies there is a serious comprehension of the Chinese marketplace and realize how to get around its complexities. They already have built solid connections with trusted providers over the years, letting them provide one of the most competitive prices and excellent quality items to their clientele.
2. Jasa Import China also offers an array of professional services that assist you in getting very best products from China. Their group can assist you with everything from product tracking down and high quality management to transport and logistics. This means that it can save you time and concentrate on jogging your organization, as they keep up with the relaxation.
3. Another benefit of dealing with Jasa Import China is simply because they offer you tailored alternatives tailored to your particular demands and demands. Their staff usually takes time to know your desired goals, budget, and market, then produces a method that meets your requirements. This gives you satisfaction that your enterprise is in great hands and wrists and this you’re obtaining the merchandise that your customers need.
4. Jasa Import China is acknowledged for their excellent customer satisfaction and help. Regardless of whether you’re the first-time importer or you’ve been importing from Asia for a time, their staff is definitely available to answer your concerns, give direction, and give you support with the approach. This ensures that you are making educated choices and can stay away from probable issues when importing from The far east.
5. Last of all, partnering with Jasa Import China can help you save funds and enhance your revenue. With a reliable and skilled import firm, you can get the most effective providers in The far east, discuss greater rates, and avoid the expenses related to further middlemen. This means that you may enhance your profit margins and purchase increasing your organization.
In a nutshell:
Importing from Chinese suppliers might be a intricate and daunting approach, nevertheless it doesn’t have to be. With Jasa Import China, you can make use of a reliable and knowledgeable transfer organization that can help you browse through the Chinese market place and look for the best merchandise for your business. Their superb solutions, tailored alternatives, and competitive prices make it simple to get started in importing the right way. So, whether you’re a small venture owner or perhaps a experienced importer, consider partnering with Jasa Import China to assist you attain your company goals! |
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Last Updated: 19 February 2024
A Brief Overview of Bitcode Al
Before we dive into the details, here are some key features of Bitcode Al that you should be aware of:
|BTC, ETH, XRP, LTC
|Crypto trading platform
An In-depth Review of Bitcode Al
The world of cryptocurrency offers a wealth of opportunities for those equipped with the right tools and information. We believe that platforms like Bitcode Al can potentially help users tap into these opportunities and work towards financial freedom.
Why strive for financial freedom? Put, money can make life easier. With the right strategies and tools, anyone can potentially grow their wealth. In this review, we’ll explore Bitcode Al, an auto-trading robot that we believe could be one of these valuable tools.
Financial tools are essential. Bitvestment, with its user-friendly platform and practical trading tools, also offers a valuable option for those seeking economic growth, providing an alternative to automated trading systems like Bitcode AI.
While there are indeed scam sites out there that make false promises, we’ve taken the time to test and review Bitcode Al thoroughly. Our findings suggest that it’s a reliable platform that anyone can use to potentially profit from cryptocurrency trading.
In the following sections, we’ll share our experience with Bitcode Al and provide a detailed analysis of its features and performance.
What is Bitcode Al?
Bitcode Al is an automated trading robot that operates independently to buy and sell cryptocurrency. It’s designed to potentially generate significant profits for its users. Some users have reportedly earned as much as $2,000 daily with Bitcode Al. This begs the question: why remain financially stagnant when such opportunities exist?
We hope this review will provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions about your journey toward financial freedom with Bitcode Al.
Our Experience with Bitcode Al
- We found Bitcode Al’s trading robots to be independent and efficient, and the platform itself is user-friendly.
- Bitcode Al’s platform is secure and protected against cyber threats.
- Users can start trading with Bitcode Al with a minimum deposit of only $250.
- The success rate of transactions performed by Bitcode Al’s trading robot is reportedly 97%, which is impressive and suggests why many users are potentially profiting from the platform.
- You can register and start using Bitcode Al via this link.
We found Bitcode Al to be a promising platform. We could test its live trading features, earn potential profits, and withdraw our earnings without any issues. This suggests that Bitcode Al is a legitimate and reliable platform.
During our test of Bitcode Al’s live trading system, we found that the trading robots could perform transactions much faster than manual trading processes. Given the cryptocurrency market’s volatility, speed is of the essence, and a delay of even a second can potentially result in losses.
We were impressed with the rate at which the platform’s trading robots selected and processed transactions. Impressively, Bitcode AI outperformed even strong competitors like Bitcoin Empire, where transaction speed is a critical factor in mitigating the volatility of the cryptocurrency market.
We also found that Bitcode Al supports many cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Monero, Ripple, Dash, and Bitcoin Cash. These can be paired with global currencies, including USD, EUR, CAD, CHF, and NZD.
Understanding the Functionality of Bitcode AI
During our live trading session with Bitcode AI, we better understood how the platform operates. Bitcode AI is accessible to investors across over 150 countries. Investors can easily fund their accounts and activate the live trading feature. Once activated, the trading robots scan the cryptocurrency market, searching for trading signals and potential positive trends. These trading robots purchase cryptocurrency at a low price and sell when the price increases, thereby generating profit for the investor.
Our high success score indicates that most transactions conducted by the trading robots on Bitcode AI will yield a profit for the investor. We’re always excited to discover trading robots with a high success score of 97%. It’s our pleasure to inform our readers about this and guide more individuals to profit from the cryptocurrency market.
For reviews of other Bitcoin robots, you can find more information on our page.
Creating a Bitcode AI Account: A Step-by-Step Guide
To gain more insights about Bitcode AI, we created a new account. This process was straightforward and quick. We downloaded the application form, filled in the necessary information, and were ready.
Funding Your Account
We decided to test the live trading feature on Bitcoin Profit by depositing $250. We found multiple payment options on the site, which is convenient because not all payment options are available in countries where investors can use Bitcode AI. We used the Visa payment platform to fund our new account. While Bitcode AI offered multiple payment options, platforms like Bitcode Method could be considered for their extensive range of accepted payment methods, providing an alternative if preferred options are unavailable.
The Demo Trading Platform
We were excited to find a demo trading feature on the Bitcode AI platform. This feature allows investors to understand the system’s workings before depositing. We tested the demo trading feature on Bitcode AI, which worked flawlessly.
Live Trading with Bitcode AI
Our first live trading experience with Bitcode AI was impressive. We allowed the session to run for 9 hours and observed the entire trading process. The robots are fast and can scan the whole cryptocurrency market in seconds. This speed is why so many people are profiting from Bitcode AI. While Bitcode AI’s speed in scanning the market is commendable, potential users might also consider Bitcode Ai, known for its efficient trading robots as an alternative option.
Why We Recommend Bitcode AI to Everyone
We have tested the auto trading robots on Bitcode AI, and we found the live trading system to be fast and efficient. We’ve read testimonials from many investors who are making significant profits on the trading platform.
Everyone can profit with Bitcode AI. It’s easy to open a new account, and the starting deposit is low. While other trading platforms demand deposits as high as $1,000, you can start earning with Bitcode AI after depositing only $250. We were impressed with this deposit value, and we believe it will encourage more people to invest and become financially independent.
Have there been any public endorsements of Bitcode AI?
We have come across online media claims that Bitcoin has been endorsed by wealthy entrepreneurs such as Elon Musk, Sir Richard Branson, Gordon Ramsay, and many others. There are also claims that Bitcode AI has been endorsed on TV shows such as The Shark Tank and Dragon’s Den. We can confirm that these claims are false.
We reached out to some of the parties, and they denied endorsing the brand. Also, no information on the official Bitcode AI site indicates any partnership with any of the entrepreneurs or brands mentioned.
Ultimately, we discovered that these claims are posted online by affiliate marketers trying to sell their products by driving traffic to affiliate websites. Please ignore these claims and visit the official Bitcode AI site for the latest news.
What are the Pros and Cons of Bitcode AI?
Bitcode AI: A Revolution in Crypto Robot-Traders
Here’s what sets Bitcode AI apart from its competitors:
- Bitcode AI boasts an impressive success score of 97%. This high performance is a testament to its efficiency and reliability, and it’s the reason why a growing number of users are making profits with this trading robot.
- With a 24/7 online customer support system, Bitcode AI ensures that assistance is always at your fingertips, regardless of your location. This means you can always get the help you need whenever you need it.
- Bitcode AI understands the importance of prompt financial transactions. This is why it processes withdrawals in less than 24 hours, making it one of the fastest in the industry.
- Bitcode AI offers users more opportunities to earn. Thanks to its advanced algorithms, the trading robots can match more trading pairs, increasing your chances of making profitable trades.
Is Bitcode AI Reliable? Our Verdict
Our comprehensive review and testing of Bitcode AI led us to the conclusion that it’s a legitimate and efficient trading robot. We’ve tested all its features and found them to be operational, and we were able to withdraw our profits to a local bank account within 24 hours.
We can confidently state that Bitcode AI is reliable and recommend it to anyone looking to earn passive income and secure their financial future. With Bitcode AI, you can start your journey towards financial freedom and early retirement.
Bitcode AI – Your Questions Answered
Yes, Bitcode Al developers say that you do not need to have any trading knowledge to benefit from the tool.
The app is completely free, there are no fees for transactions, deposits, withdrawals or other commissions. You only need to deposit a trading fee of £250 to start trading.
The creators of this app do not say how much you can earn with this app. Your profits will depend on how well you use the market insights that the app offers.
The developers claim that they use good security protocols, including SSL technology, to protect users’ personal and financial information.
You can use this trading robot on any desktop or mobile device as long as you have a working internet connection.
No. The tool has not received any celebrity endorsements yet.
You can register with Bitcode Al by giving your name, email address, country of residence and a working telephone number. Once you start using your deposited funds on the affiliated broker platform, you may be asked to upload government-issued identity documents to verify your login credentials (according to the broker’s KYC measures).
No. This trading app has not appeared on any popular TV shows such as Shark Tank or Dragons’ Den.
Still have doubts? Check out our comprehensive article on Bitcoin Robots for more information! |
Publikation: Lone Wolf Race Warriors and white Genocide - Mattias Gardell
Elements in Religion and Violence DOI: 10.1017/9781108609760 First published online: May 2021.
When Brenton Tarrant live-streamed his massacre of fifty-one Muslims in Christchurch, New Zealand, in March 2019, he was but one in a series of lone-acting white men committing violent crime to further the radical white nationalist aim to save the white race from extinction and establish a white ethnostate.
From where did white nationalists get the notion of an ongoing white genocide? Why should “resistance” against a perceived invasion of “white” territory be launched by individual “lone wolves” massacring noncombatants they have no prior relation to? How could slaughtering children be construed as a heroic act that a perpetrator wants to broadcast to the world? Based on a unique collection of interviews with lone wolves, their victims, and their supporters, and a close reading of lone wolf, fascist, and radical nationalist material and communication, this Element provides solid answers to these and adjacent questions of importance. |
Welcome to our Skills Bootcamps – a transformative journey designed to empower individuals and businesses in the ever-evolving landscape of skills and knowledge. Join us on this educational journey, where innovation meets practicality, and together, let’s unlock the potential for personal and professional growth. Welcome to a future of enhanced skills, limitless opportunities, and continuous learning.
Organisations undergoing resource shifts from the impact of Covid-19 and modern technology can cultivate an adaptable workforce. This course aids team members in becoming data-literate, enabling them to comprehend and leverage data for actionable insights—a cost-effective means to enhance valuable data skills.
Explore the myriad benefits for your business through Skills Bootcamps in three key ways:
Tap into a vast talent pool of high-potential candidates for digital roles without the obligation of immediate employment.
Conduct interviews as part of your standard recruitment process, allowing you to select top candidates at no cost.
Elevate your recruitment strategy by becoming an Employer Partner, gaining access to multiple Skills Bootcamps.
Schedule recruitments in advance, tailor candidates’ training to your specific needs, and receive marketing support for targeted candidate leads.
Engage with potential hires through webinars, ensuring a comprehensive understanding before the interview process.
Fast-track the reskilling or upskilling of your existing staff, addressing the ever-changing demands of the tech industry.
Leverage cost-effective Skills Bootcamps, covering courses that are traditionally expensive.
With the Government scheme, employers only bear 10% of course fees per learner, making it an accessible avenue for skill enhancement.
Our dedicated team will guide you in selecting relevant Skills Bootcamps, ensuring your staff acquires the certifications essential for their roles.
You have the option to choose from seven distinguished Skills Bootcamp programs, each of which holds full support from subject matter experts and is readily available for immediate commencement. Choose from:
Skills Bootcamp in Digital Skills for Accounting, Skills Bootcamp in Cybersecurity, Skills Bootcamp in Cloud (AWS), Skills Bootcamp in Project Management (Prince2), Skills Bootcamp in Software Development (Python), Skills Bootcamp in Data Analytics (PowerBI), Skills Bootcamp in Literacy.
Find out more below: |
EXTENDED CARE STAFF
Tammy was born and raised in the Dominican Republic and relocated to the Bradenton area in 1995. After marrying Rafy Vasquez and starting a family, Tammy became very interested in the development of children. When Tammy’s daughter Tania turned three in 2003, she began attending the Center, and Tammy started working in the primary classroom. Tania is now a senior at Sarasota High School and her two younger daughters are here at CMS.
Jae was born in Sarasota, the oldest of two girls. Her sister Mia has also joined CMS. Jae graduated from Sarasota High School and is currently a student at State College of Florida studying psychology with plans to transfer to the University of South Florida in the summer of 2023. She likes to read fiction novels with a psychology theme and self help books. |
180 Leylands Road
Every year we run a variety of Holiday Clubs that span a few days. These events usually have an underlining theme, with games, crafts, and a variety of other activities to match. It’s a fun-filled time for all involved – even the leaders.
We do have a maximum capacity when running our Holiday Clubs, so we ask all those who are interested to sign-up and purchase a ticket for their child. The cost of ticket helps cover the cost of running the club.
Check out our “Upcoming Events” section to see when we are holding our next holiday club. |
As the world’s leading networking equipment and solutions provider, Cisco certifications are highly sought after for those hoping to enter the world of technology. With a vast range of specializations, from entry-level to expert, it can be difficult to navigate the best certifications for your career ambitions.
That’s why more and more people are turning to Cisco certification exam preparation services. Taking the time to understand the necessary subject matter and make sure you’re well versed in foundational concepts will put you in a great spot when it comes time to sit your exam.
These services provide you with the best path to success by training you on the key topics needed for each certification. It provides an innovative review system with practice tests that accurately reflect the skills and knowledge you need for your chosen certification. With this information at hand, you develop an even deeper understanding of the course content and are fully prepared for your exam.
The interactive video tutorials provide concise lessons, artifacts and scenarios that cover real-world applications to reinforce knowledge and help build up a solid foundation of skills needed for success in any exam. You’ll be able to quickly pinpoint topics needing reinforcement with study plans specific to each individual student that suggest which topics need additional work based on their current proficiency levels.
Training partners provide certified instructors who are qualified Cisco experts in their specialist fields. Through their detailed instruction, guided exercises and personalized mentoring they help equip students with critical professional skills like time tracking, test taking strategies and more. Highlighting pitfalls as well as successes, instructors can quickly help answer questions and correct inaccuracies that may be evident in students’ knowledge base.
These preparation services offer a comprehensive package designed to take away the stress of your upcoming exams. With resources like online updated materials, study guides, mock labs, simulation software and feedback tailored towards your own personal development style, these services ensure that every student is fully prepared for their exams. With their assistance you can easily become certified quickly, efficiently and always with guaranteed success.
Are you looking to become certified in Cisco? You could be looking to gain a better job or maybe you are interested in advancing your current career. The good news is that you don’t have to be overwhelmed by the task of studying for the Cisco certification exams -with the right preparation, achieving your goals can be easy and even fun!
At our company, we provide expert guidance and support to ensure you acquire all the knowledge and skills required to become certified. We have a team of highly experienced professionals who have mastered Cisco certification technology, providing invaluable resources to help you with your studies.
We offer courses geared towards specific certifications, as well as general courses featuring key concepts. Our courseware also includes interactive practice sessions, helping to build confidence before taking the actual exams. With this comprehensive approach, you will be within reach of passing the toughest Cisco certification exam. To make it even more accessible, our courses are available on-demand, so you can learn anytime and anywhere!
Additionally, we offer a range of test-prep materials, including mock tests and sample questions. Through these practices tests, you can evaluate how close you are to acquiring your certification and identify which areas you may need to work on further. Additionally, we keep our students up-to-date with trends in the industry, giving an edge in the competitive recruitment process.
Our team of instructors are always at-the-ready to answer your queries. You can interact with them regarding any concerns prior to starting or throughout your studies if necessary. With us, you won’t feel alone throughout your journey!
At our institute, we understand that passing Cisco certification exam can be difficult for many. We’ve got you covered and are working hard every day to make sure that passing these exams is as smooth as ever! So what are you waiting for? Join us today and get one step closer towards achieving your certification goals! |
Comparison to 9/11
Comparison of the events of October 7th to 9/11, highlighting the impact on people and the number of casualties.
Children in Gaza
Discussion of the impact on children in Gaza and the comparison of their suffering to 9/11.
Comparison of the population sizes of Israel and Gaza, and the impact on children in Gaza.
Justification of Killing
Exposing the justification of killing innocent children and the belief that children have brought it upon themselves. |
Discussion of increasing social and political divisions around the world, attributing these divisions to social media.
The Myth of the Filter Bubble
Debunking the myth of online filter bubbles and explaining that real-life interactions are more ideologically isolated than online interactions.
Your Brain is Stupid
Exploration of how human brains evolved to navigate social structures and how real-life communities were relatively isolated and aligned, leading to the brain's struggle to process online disagreement.
Donât You Dare Disagree With Me â Social Sorting
Explanation of the brain's social sorting mechanism and how it affects the processing of online disagreement and polarization.
Highlighting the importance of self-examination in processing information and the need to adapt to the information age, suggesting a return to smaller online communities. |
Beautiful Churches – This is an excellent article! “We stepped inside and beauty stirred my heart. Worship seemed the only appropriate response. It was clear that an artist had spent months, even years, with tools that chiselled, adorned, and beautified. Each detail, lovingly and carefully carved. In that room, the light glimmered and shone, reflecting the beauty of His handiwork. The room I’m speaking of was a school gymnasium.”
10 Things About Islam – Zane Pratt: “Islam is a fast-growing religion, especially in the Western world. Christians increasingly need to be aware of Islam and, most importantly, how to engage its adherents with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Here are 10 things I learned about Islam during my 20 years as a missionary in a Muslim-majority country.”
Level the Playing Field – Carl Trueman points out one obvious implication of destroying gender as a category. How will we distinguish athletes in the years to come? How will women be able to compete if they are up against men who believe they are women?
Proving a Miracle – “Pope Francis signed off on a second miracle attributed to the late Pope John Paul II, setting him up to officially become a saint. Barbie Latza Nadeau on the bureaucracy of proving miracles.”
The New Theist – The Chronicle of Higher Education has a long and fascinating article about William Lane Craig and how he became Christian philosophy’s boldest apostle.
The grace we receive in forgiveness gives the grace to be forgiving.—Philip Ryken |
As Christians, we all want to grow in spiritual maturity and Christlikeness. At least, I hope we do. We all want to become what we are in Christ, to put aside patterns of sin and unrighteousness and to replace them with patterns of holiness. Ultimately, we want to become like Christ, to think how he thought and to behave how he behaved. We do well to aspire to the highest standards of holiness and godliness.
The Bible holds out one group of people who are to serve as models of Christian maturity: Elders (referred to at times as elders, and at other times as pastors or overseers). Elders are qualified to the office primarily on the basis of their character. While the Bible provides one quality related to skill (the ability to teach) and one related to the amount of time a man has been a Christian (not a recent convert), all of the other qualifications are related to character. Yet while these traits are demanded of elders, they are not unique to elders.
D.A. Carson has said that the list of qualifications for elders is “remarkable for being unremarkable.” Why is that? Because these traits are repeated elsewhere as qualities that ought to be present among all believers. Carson says, “The criteria mentioned are demanded of all Christians everywhere. Which is another way of saying, elders are first of all to be exemplars of the Christian graces that are presupposed as mandated on all Christians.” Every church is meant to be full of men and women who display these traits.
This means that if you want to grow in holiness, one great place to begin is by knowing and imitating the character qualifications of elders. Today I am beginning a new series on the character of a Christian, and I will structure the series around these character qualifications. I want to answer questions like these: In what ways do the qualifications of an elder and the calling of all Christians overlap? Very practically, what do those qualities look like in the life of the believer? How can I know if I am displaying these graces? And how can I best pray for them in my own life?
I hope you will join me as we consider how to spur one another on to love, good works, and great Christlikeness! I hope you will join me as we learn together how we can exemplify the highest Christian virtues. Here is how I anticipate progressing through the series:
- Above Reproach
- A One-Woman Man (and One-Man Woman)
- Sober-Minded, Self-Controlled, Respectable
- Sober, Gentle, Peacemaking
- Not a Lover of Money
- A Leader at Home
- Mature and Humble
- Respected by Outsiders
This series will kick off next week with the qualification that serves as a summary or an umbrella for the rest of them—the quality of being above reproach, of being blameless and free of any great defects in character and behavior.
(Note #1: There are three texts we look to when discussing the qualifications of an elder: 1 Timothy 3:2-7, Titus 1:6-9, and 1 Peter 5:1-3. Each of these overlaps with the others but each also has unique elements. We come to the fullest understanding of the elders’ qualifications when we hold the three of them together. This is what we will do in the weeks ahead. Note #2: For the breakdown of the character qualities, I intend to follow the pattern Thabiti Anyabwile uses in his 2012 work Finding Faithful Elders and Deacons.) |
Some light-hearted fare for a Friday…
Among friends, family and perhaps even readers of this site, I have achieved the reputation of being something of an Apple-hater; that is, a hater of all things Mac. MacBooks, iMacs, Mac Pro’s–I have often spoken out against all of them. They are overpriced, underpowered, toys for yuppies or for people with thick-rimmed glasses and soul patches–people who just take themselves far too seriously. They’re computers for followers, not leaders.
And then I bought one.
I bought one of those nifty new MacBooks I had been hearing so much about. One of those unibody ones, carved from a block of aluminum. It was love at first sight. With my old Acer laptop on the fritz, I had to find a replacement of some kind before my spring travel schedule began. And as I looked at the vast number of laptops available today, something drew me to the Mac. I guess it’s probably that I’ve recently taken a “quality over quantity” approach to life (and technology in particular) and realized that this was not just a nice-looking little machine, but a very high quality one. And so I walked out of Best Buy with it tucked under my arm.
I guess my downfall began with my first iPod, a little Nano that I bought a couple of years earlier. It was a nice little piece of hardware, though one that was mostly without frills. This was, quite literally, my first Apple experience. I couldn’t help but notice how much care Apple took even in the packaging. It showed me that Apple wants to give its customers more than a product; they want to give them an experience. And the experience begins with the unboxing of the hardware. There is something kind of dumb about this. Who wants to pay extra for packaging that will soon be thrown out? Yet there is also something appealing about it.
A few months ago Aileen somehow got her hands on a very cheap iPod Touch and gave it to me for our anniversary. It is a gorgeous little gadget that does a lot of things very well. It is simple, elegant and very effective at what it does. This iPod was the next stage in my downfall.
Well, once I got the laptop, I found that I was committed. My desktop computer, the one that I rely on to make my living at web design, was failing fast. Even worse, the installation of Windows Vista was getting slower and slower. And so I jumped in with both feet, so to speak, and bought an iMac. At this point I think there’s no turning back. At this point, I don’t think I’ll want to.
What I’ve come to realize is that I don’t dislike Apple computers. No, I just dislike the people who use them! I’ll grant that there are some exceptions, some people who are humble Mac users. But far too often I’ve come across these Mac apologists, the kind who feel the need to disparage all things Microsoft and to boast in their own superiority. They are the ones who make you feel like you’re missing out, like you’d be so much better and more popular if you’d just become part of the in-crowd. I’ve never wanted to be part of that crowd. All along I’ve allowed the people to influence my perception of the product. Shame on me.
So I offer this brief article as my ipology to all of those humbly orthodox Mac users whom I’ve ever mocked or belittled or persecuted because of their choice in computers (you know who you are!). I admit it now: Apple really does do things well. I guess you were right all along. I was wrong. And I ipologize. |
Excelsior Hotel and Shopping Centre located at 5 Coleman Street in Singapore’s City Hall district is up for collective sale, with over 80% of the development’s owners in agreement. The reserve price is set at $458 million and a Cushman & Wakefield marketing agent is Champions Way Condo handling the sale.
The site, with a 20,798 sq ft plot and a 99-year leasehold tenure, is zoned for hotel use and boasts a verified gross floor area (GFA) of 227,247 sq ft. The development itself consists of a 21-storey tower housing a 284-key hotel and a five-level podium shopping centre.
Christina Sim, senior director of capital markets at Cushman & Wakefield, considers hotel assets to be recovering strongly post-pandemic, suggesting that Singapore’s hospitality sector is likely to outperform the rest of Asia Pacific as travel restrictions ease. China’s reopening of its borders is expected to further drive the market.
The Excelsior Hotel and Shopping Centre is conveniently positioned opposite Peninsula Plaza and Grand Park City Hall and a five-minute walk away from City Hall MRT Station. Recent sales transactions at 5 Coleman Street also suggest promising market activity.
An attractive offering, the collective sale tender will close on April 18 at 3pm. |
With dedicated payment processing solution, your Telemarketing of Travel related services and Vitamins (MCC 4761) will surely get a boost. You can get high quality yet flexible payment system for your business. We have design high security products that meet industry regulatory requirements for safe processing. They can keep your system flexible and scalable. Our systems are backed by our expert team that help you team up with leading payment processing brands. You will reduce risk, cost, and secure your future with the help of our payment processing infrastructure.
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No additional charges at all, owners will have access to merchant accounts 24/7. You will get a portal which will show all the transactions made within selected dates. You don’t have to wait for statements and money anymore, merchants can check batches, transactions and deposits, download data, view statements, run reports, and order new tools on the spot. Our payment processing solution also offers dispute solution via direct communication. You can do all these things on mobile or desktop.
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Attract new customers and keep current ones by using our world class payment processing services. Mobile payment, checks, online payments, and many more options are available to you. We have special offers for people who do Telemarketing of Travel related services and Vitamins. We will help you manage payments with the help of latest account software integrated in your website.
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In the dynamic realm of modern interior design, staying ahead of trends not only ensures your space remains stylish but also allows you to infuse a sense of contemporary flair into your home. Here, we’ll not just explore the latest trends in modern tile design but also provide practical insights on how you can integrate these trends seamlessly into various areas of your living space.
1. Geometric Patterns: Embrace the geometric renaissance that’s dominating modern tile design. From hexagons and chevrons to intricate herringbone patterns, geometric tiles add a captivating visual appeal. Consider applying these patterns to accent walls, bathroom floors, or kitchen backsplashes for a chic and modern touch. I can guide you on selecting the right geometric pattern that complements your existing decor.
2. Bold Colour Choices: Step out of the neutral zone and infuse your space with bold and vibrant colours. Modern tiles are now available in an array of striking hues, allowing you to make a bold statement in any room. Whether you opt for a single striking colour or a playful mix, incorporating bold colours into your tile choices can transform the ambiance of your space. Let me assist you in choosing colours that resonate with your style while maintaining a balanced and harmonious look.
3. Large Format Tiles: Experience the grandeur of large format tiles that effortlessly create a sense of spaciousness. Ideal for both floors and walls, these tiles minimize grout lines, giving your space a sleek and modern aesthetic. I can provide tips on choosing the right size for different areas of your home and guide you through the installation process for a polished finish.
4. Terrazzo Resurgence: Witness the revival of terrazzo, a timeless and versatile material that adds texture and character to modern spaces. Whether in classic neutral tones or bold colour variations, terrazzo tiles can be used in flooring, countertops, and even backsplashes. Learn how to incorporate this enduring trend into your design scheme while maintaining a contemporary edge.
5. Nature-Inspired Textures: Connect with the outdoors by incorporating nature-inspired textures into your tile choices. Wood-look tiles, stone replicas, and textured surfaces bring an organic feel to your interior. I can provide guidance on selecting tiles that mimic the beauty of natural materials while offering the durability and low maintenance of modern alternatives.
6. Mixed Material Mosaics: Elevate your design with the artistry of mixed material mosaics. Combine different tile materials, finishes, and shapes to create bespoke mosaic designs that serve as unique focal points. Whether for a bathroom feature wall or a kitchen backsplash, I can help you explore creative possibilities and ensure a seamless integration of mixed materials.
By understanding and implementing these trends, you not only enhance the visual appeal of your space but also infuse it with a sense of contemporary elegance. As your go-to tile expert, I’m here to provide personalized advice and insights tailored to your preferences. Feel free to share specific areas of your home you’re looking to enhance, and together, we can transform your living spaces into modern design masterpieces.
Have a enquiry about Tiles?
Fill out the form below and one of our tile expert will get back to you. |
An excellent article about just a FEW of the shortcomings of the Obama Care fiasco. We started using Liberty-Healthshare and are thrilled. It’s not insurance but a health sharing program that is MUCH cheaper and handles all our needs.
Read the article from Investors Business Daily…
ObamaCare Suffers Three Major Blows in One Week
ObamaCare rates will skyrocket next year, according to its former chief. Enrollment is tumbling this year. And a big insurer is quitting most exchanges. That’s what we learned in just the past few days.
Marilyn Tavenner, CEO of America’s Health Insurance Plans, revealed that she expects ObamaCare premium hikes “to be higher than we saw previous years,” including last year, which saw double-digit rate increases across the country.
Tavenner, for those who don’t know, was head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services until early 2015, which means she helped bring ObamaCare to life. In November 2014, she was boasting how “the Affordable Care Act is working to improve competition and choice among marketplace plans.”
Now that she’s jumped to the other side of the fence, she’s discovered the dark side of the health reform monster she helped unleash.
Why will 2017 rates spike even higher? Read More… |
Five days after renowned environmental activist David Suzuki told CHEK News in an interview that pipelines are going to be “blown up” if leaders don’t pay attention, Suzuki has issued an apology.
“The remarks I made were poorly chosen and I should not have said them,” Suzuki said in a statement on the David Suzuki Foundation website. “Any suggestion that violence is inevitable is wrong and will not lead us to a desperately-needed solution to the climate crisis. My words were spoken out of extreme frustration and I apologize.”
Suzuki made the pipeline remark at an Extinction Rebellion protest in downtown Victoria on Nov. 20, called Funeral for the Future. The event in Victoria saw hundreds march from Centennial Square to the B.C. Legislature, pleading with governments to do something about the ongoing climate emergency.
“We’re in deep, deep doo doo. And the leading experts have been telling us for over 40 years. This is what we’ve come to,” Suzuki told CHEK News in an interview on Saturday afternoon. “The next stage after this, there are going to be pipelines blown up if our leaders don’t pay attention to what’s going on.”
His remarks set off a firestorm on social media, with many expressing concern that the prominent Canadian’s comments could incite acts of violence. They even prompted a response from B.C.’s public safety minister on Monday, who said the statement was not “helpful at all.”
Suzuki clarified his comments in a follow-up interview with CHEK News on Monday, saying it was “absurd” people thought he was inciting violence.
“We’ve come to a time where civil disobedience is what we have to do now — to put our bodies on the line — because if we don’t do this, then I fear what the next stage will be, which will be people will start to blow up pipelines,” he said on Monday, adding that he did not regret what he said.
The remarks also caught the attention of Alberta’s UCP government, which not only demanded an apology from Suzuki but moved a motion to formally condemn him.
On Thursday, Suzuki backtracked, apologizing for his comments.
“We must find a way to stop the environmental damage we are doing to the planet and we must do so in a non-violent manner,” he said in his apology. |
Celebrate the kickoff to Cherry Festival with a 2-hour, high-energy exercise class led by Certified Strong by Zumba® & Zumba® Instructor, Angie Pierce along with other instructors from the Northern MI area. Starting with a 45-minute HIIT class - Strong by Zumba, moving right into our traditional Zumba Dance Party by the Bay!
8:00am - STRONG by Zumba® combines a revolutionary body weight, muscle conditioning, cardio, kickboxing and plyometric training moves synced to exciting music that is specifically designed to match every single move. All moves have a modified version; all fitness levels welcome.
8:45am - Zumba® is an exhilarating fitness class featuring exotic rhythms set to Latin and international beats. The choreography incorporates hip-hop, soca, samba, salsa, merengue and mambo. It’s fun, effective and best of all? Made for everyone! |
Temple leads a regional consortium to purchase Chestnut Hill Hospital, deal to close by year's end.
An alliance of three regional health care providers, including Temple Health, Redeemer Health and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine are partnering to acquire Chestnut Hill Hospital from Reading-based Tower Health.
In an announcement on Monday, CHH President and CEO John Cacciamani described the deal as “the best possible solution” for this important community institution, which has been on the market since the fall of 2020.
“This gives us the power of Temple’s esteemed academic institution, together with the power of primary care networks of both PCOM and Redeemer. In addition, there is potential for expanding our educational opportunities and what we can offer when it comes to women’s health,” he said.
“Together, our organizations bring the expertise, resources, operational excellence and skilled clinical care to ensure that Chestnut Hill Hospital remains a durable and sustainable resource for the eastern Montgomery County and northwest Philadelphia communities,” said Michael A. Young, CEO of Temple Health.
In a press conference on Tuesday, Young said “we view this as an investment - a good and wise investment. Not just in Chestnut Hill, but in Temple.”
Young and Tower Health CEO Sue Perotty said neither the price nor the terms of the sale will be disclosed. Temple will be a 60 percent owner and the managing partner of the new entity, while Redeemer and PCOM will each own 20 percent.
The deal, which comes seven months after an earlier agreement of sale to Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic collapsed in January, is expected to close within three to four months, Perrotty said. It must first be approved by state regulators and Tower Health bondholders. In a press conference on Tuesday, Perrotty said she was “very confident that we’ll get this (deal) moved forward.”
The new ownership is not expected to have any immediate impact on current services offered at the hospital, Cacciamani said. He and his leadership team are expected to remain at the helm and there are no plans to lay off any of its 827 employees.
“They’ve asked me to stay, which is nice,” Cacciamani joked at the press briefing. “At this moment we’ve been committed to continue to operate as is. There are no direct operational plans that will get us to any significant changes in the short order.”
“We’re going to keep the leadership team intact.....and employees will keep their jobs,” Young said. “We hope to make this a ‘spiraling up’ endeavor. You don’t do a turnaround by getting the chainsaw out.”
In the future, Cacciamani said, the new owners may be able to help Chestnut Hill provide services that it does not now offer. But any such changes would come slowly, he said.
“We need to be careful. We need to understand what we have across our new partners, and what we can deliver for the community,” he said.
Perrotty, CEO of Tower Health, said the company had received “multiple offers” for Chestnut Hill.
“We did have an investment banking firm,” she acknowledged at the meeting on Monday. But “this is one (deal) we have been working on for quite some time. We’ve been through an awful lot of hard work to get to this point.”
Cacciamani said that after the Trinity deal fell through, he began reaching out to various regional providers to gauge their interest - including Temple, Redeemer and PCOM.
“Everyone of them realized they had a reason to be at the table,” Cacciamani said. “They got together and started talking collaboratively. That’s when they came up with what I believe is the best possible solution for Chestnut Hill Hospital.
“There were plenty of different options out there that would not necessarily have played into that role,” he continued. “I thank Tower and Sue Perrotty in particular for taking the time and effort to work through a deal that obviously is complicated. I can’t say enough about Tower’s willingness to, in earnest, look for a solution that was in the best interest of our community.”
At the press conference on Tuesday, Cacciamani also made a point of thanking both U.S Rep Dwight Evans and State Sen. Art Haywood.
“You walk the walk and talk the talk. You’ve been there when we’ve needed you - including through COVID. I want to thank you for making us a priority,” he said. “Now I look forward to keeping our end of the bargain - which is to provide A-class, high quality health services to our immediate and surrounding communities.”
Jay Feldstein, D.O., president and CEO of Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, said he expects the new partnership to help his school educate students.
“We have a long standing teaching relationship with Chestnut Hill Hospital for our medical students and residents, and we expect to not only sustain that but to grow it with Temple and Holy Redeemer,” Feldstein said. “We also have more than 1,000 alumni in the area, which can offer a great support system for the continued success of the hospital.”
Redeemer Health, a Catholic healthcare provider with long-established strength in women’s health care, can provide Chestnut Hill with an enhanced layer of service on that front, Cacciamani said. And its network of facilities for older adults, which includes nursing homes, home healthcare providers and hospice services, can provide more service options for patients who are being discharged.
“Our goal would be to have them as a potential provider for our patients,” Cacciamani said. “It also means that maybe we can start thinking about prenatal care for women again.”
Michael Laign, president and CEO of Redeemer Health, “We see a nice fit here. We’re very good in population health,” he said.
While Redeemer is a Catholic institution, Cacciamani said, the newly-formed entity will not be.
“Our secular position on women’s health issues will not change,” Cacciamani said. |
ChildFund Ireland receives significant funding and support from Irish Aid ,the Irish government’s programme of assistance for developing countries. In 2012, we received a five-year development grant from Irish Aid to fund our work improving the rights and living conditions of disadvantaged children. This funding has helped support our programme work in Africa which comes under the banner of the Communities Caring for Children Programme (CCCP). The programme is implemented in 4 countries: Ethiopia, Mozambique, Uganda and Ireland. Over the lifetime of the programme (2012-2016), ChildFund Ireland will receive more than €3 million in Funding from Irish Aid to implement the CCCP.
The CCC programme works with parents, caregivers, communities and authorities to provide sustainable early childhood development opportunities for children under five. Home-based care initiatives run as part of the programme help to educate parents on best practice habits for children’s well-being, and support them with early childhood stimulation, child immunisation and nutrition interventions. Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres constructed over the lifetime of the programme provide a vital platform for the development of young children in the target areas, and a community resource used to provide a space for training and for sharing of knowledge with a focus on parent/child interaction. Parents/caregivers are trained in in parenting and child health, volunteers and professional staff are trained in child protection, gender awareness and gender-based violence (GBV), and the promotion of community owned child protection and inclusion mechanisms such as child well-being committees and the strengthening of child protection systems. Opportunities for people in these communities to generate their own income have been improved through the operation of Village, Savings and Loans Associations (or VSL groups). This scheme is designed to promote financial sustainability, particularly for women who are the primary caregivers in the community. The groups are also used as platforms to advocate for, and to advance community and district level policies and strategies that benefit the lives of young children. Furthermore, a learning component aims to capture and share knowledge and experiences from the CCCP within ChildFund and with programme partners in the three countries involved.
In Ireland, programme work funded by Irish Aid has been reflected in public engagement activities to develop the Irish public’s understanding of the importance of global development in fighting poverty and social inequality. ChildFund Ireland runs a development education programme for primary school children to help them develop an awareness of the lives of their contemporaries in the developing world, as part of our public engagement outreach. Information about the programme can be found here: http://www.childfund.ie/mylifemyworld/
Other public engagement has been reflected through our Free From Violence advocacy campaign to make Irish citizens aware of the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) and to ensure they contained specific emphasis on protection of the children from violence and exploitation (Ultimately reflected in goal 16.2). http://www.childfund.ie/childrens-voices-for-the-global-goals/
HOW THE CCC PROGRAMME HAS HELPED IMPROVE THE LIVES OF CHILDREN IN ETHIOPIA, MOZAMBIQUE & UGANDA
Early Childhood Development:
ChildFund Ireland recognises three distinct life stages: infant (0-5), child (6-14) and youth (15-24). Our ECD programmes are designed specifically for the former stage and tailored to the needs of infants. Our ECD programmes are based on a holistic model of three pillars – health, education and protection, in the knowledge that children will not learn if they are sick, they will not embrace healthy practices without education and that none of this matters if they are being abused or exploited. ECD plays a vital role in improving children’s cognitive, physical and social skills, providing an important bedrock for their development into later years. Over the course of the programme primary school teachers have noted the excellent performance of children who have graduated from our ECD centres. The CCC Programme has helped fund the opening of 7 ECD centers in the Sirrao district of Ethiopia (8 by the end of 2016), 4 centers in the Gondolo district of Mozambique (5 by end of 2016), and 4 centers in the Kiryandongo district of Uganda. Before the programme, ECD options for 0-5 in the rural territories of all three countries where we operate were either extremely limited, or non existent. What ECD centres that did exist were either inaccessible, or mostly unknown in these communities. The ECD centres constructed and renovated through CCCP have resulted in increased enrolment and attendance rates of children. They have helped provide model examples of quality ECD services, raised awareness among parents and challenged other privately owned facilities to improve the quality of their services. Community ownership of the centres is recognised as one of the biggest strengths of the programme and the ECD centres are now seen to provide a good learning environment for children as appreciated by parents, community and district leaders.
Community Health Support:
The CCCP has helped ChildFund to work with local partners in improving available health services as they impact on children and their families. Home visits by healthcare workers has resulted in increased take up of immunisation and birth registration services across the Districts. For example, in Mozambique child registration campaigns have been carried out and a total number of 11,189 children from 0 – 10 years have been registered since the programme started. Child immunisation is one of CCCP’s achievements with targets exceeded in both Ethiopia and in Uganda. CCCP’s partnership with local health offices and facilities was crucial to this success, and has contributed to the sustainability of immunisation services in the areas. Community education has ensured that parents and caregivers now understand the necessity and benefit of immunisation. The programme also includes a component to improve nutrition for young children and the communities are learning how to grow and cook appropriate foods. Education of parents in safe practice habits has contributed to improved feeding and hygiene practices and positive discipline methods for their children. Improved parenting practices are credited for increasing ECD centre attendance and performance in all three project locations, improving parent-child communication and increasing the quality of play-time. It has also contributed to the replacement of corporal punishment with positive disciplinary approaches.
Village Savings & Loans Associations’:
The CCCP vision holds that economic empowerment is one way of enabling communities to properly care for their children, and that community members’ economic empowerment can assist in their greater participation and investment in ECD services. Therefore, CCCP introduced and developed community Voluntary Saving and Loan (VSL) groups and Business Development Services (BDS) for targeted households to increase their household incomes and consequently increase the households’ support of ECD services. Prior to the CCCP intervention, most parents and caregivers in the target communities did not have access to financial services and loans, and those who could apply for a loan had to face high interest rates. The VSLA groups, by providing an accessible and reliable source of savings and loans, have enabled many families to improve their quality of care to the children by providing them the means to meet basic needs such as health, nutrition, birth registration, education and other services. This has resulted in improved employment opportunities and improved access to, and attainment of, quality health and education by poor and marginalised citizens, especially females.
In Mozambique alone, 70 VSLA groups were created since the beginning of the programme, exceeding the original target of 40. Of the total number of citizens to benefit from the scheme, some 73.5% are women who have been economically empowered through the savings groups.
Significantly, VSL groups are also used as information platforms to educate parents and on best practice in health, education and care for children. The groups have also provided an important platform for females, empowering them to have a much greater say in matters that impact on their lives and the wider community. VSL groups also act as a means to sensitise the community about gender based violence (GBV) and harmful, culturally ingrained practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) that are so damaging to the lives of women and young girls.
Improving Child Protection & Referral Systems:
Over the course of the CCC the programme has sought to increase the number of community structures that are able to plan, implement and monitor child care & protection systems for children in the programme areas in the 0-5 age group. A second and equally important goal has been to increase the percentage of reported child protection cases that are managed according to professional standards.
In Uganda, more effective referral networks and systems which provide quality medical services and legal support has contributed to an overall increase in the number of child abuse cases reported. Recently, Kiryandongo Police Station and other local stations increased the number of officers at their Child and Family departments in an effort to provide improved case management and follow-up services.
In Mozambique, three referral networks between community structures and formal child protection service providers have been successfully established. The Child Protection Community Committees (CPCCs) are now linked to the Department of Child, Gender and Social Action at District level, as well as to the Mozambique Institute for Legal Aid (IPAJ), the Police, the Registration Department and the Municipality.
The referral networks are enabling the institutions to share information and exchange experiences on child protection issues, demonstrating how institutions can complement each other’s activities. This has resulted in public governance systems that have the capacity to be effective and responsive to the needs of the poor and marginalised,
In Ethiopia, prior to the CCCP intervention the majority of government established Child Rights Committees (CRCs) were not functional. The CCCP has provided continuous capacity-building training sand subsequently all CRCs in five operational areas of Siraro are now actively contributing towards protection of children, and responding to cases of child abuse and violence. For example, the levels of awareness in the community in relation to child protection have dramatically improved. Response mechanisms and systems have been established and are now responding to reported cases in a professional manner. One example is FGM whereby the Siraro Women and Children Office indicate that prior to CCCP there were four to seven FGM cases reported every month. Now, as a result of the coordinated efforts, the practice of FGM is decreasing over time. Through continuous awareness raising efforts, the programme has supported seven practitioners of what is known in development terminology as Harmful Traditional Practices to engage in alternative income generating activities. These are important steps in both educating and supporting rural communities to abandon cultural practices that are detrimental to the health and well-being of women and girls. |
Metal Men #48 (October-November, 1976)
“Who is Bruce Gordon and Why is he Doing those Terrible Things to Himself?”
Script – Martin Pasko
Artist/Co-Plotter – Walt Simonson
Colorist – Carl Gafford
Letterer – Gaspar
Editor/Co-Plotter – Gerry Conway
Cover Price: $0.30
It’s weird the trends you notice when you trawl the cheap-o bins with any regularity. I mentioned last month that I’d never seen a copy of Outsiders #5 without some “spinal damage”, and that’s still true… just this weekend I found another, with the same splitting.
Well, on the other hand… I’ve yet to come across a 1970’s issue of Metal Men that is in less than pristine condition! If I were a betting man (and thankfully, I’m not) I’d wager that these Metal Men have never even been opened! They look crisper than most new releases!
Do I have a point? C’mon, do I ever? Let’s just get to da book.
We join the Metal Men and Will Magnus in the lab, where the latter is attempting to build a better “responsometer”. Apparently, something had happened to Tina (Platinum) in an earlier adventure that the Doc is trying to keep from reoccurring… something about “making eyes at anything in rivets”… hmm, maybe the Doc’s feeling a bit jealous. Either way, they call it quits for the day. The Metal Men decide to go see a movie, and Mercury reminds us (for the first time today) that he’s liquid at room temperature… and throws in his atomic number (80) for good measure.
Before they can hit the town, a trio of women burst into the lab… one of which is sobbing uncontrollably. Her name is Mona Bennet, and she is desperately in need of Magnus’s help. Ya see, it has to do with her fiance… Bruce Gordon! We might know him by his snazzier name… Eclipso!
She shares the story of Bruce being nicked by the black diamond, fighting the Justice League, and ultimately trying to “burn out” the Eclipso persona by inventing a ridiculously powerful tanning bed. It doesn’t work all that well… and the high-intensity lamp shatters. Eclipso then begins creeping around Mona’s home… finding an unopened letter from her father, Dr. Simon Bennet. It’s a letter addressed to Bruce informing him the answers he requires are located at Georgia Augusta University Library in Gottingen, West Germany. Wow, “West” Germany… I remember being such an annoyed and dumb eight year old knowing that I had an “out-of-date” globe in my bedroom when they took the wall down… funny the stupid things you remember. Anyhoo, Magnus decides he and his Metal Men are Germany-bound.
Mona shares some more information from “Daddy”. Back in the yesteryear, the Spanish Inquisition (who no one ever expects) arrived in Peru, somewhere near Machu Picchu. They procured some parchments… and burned them as heretical texts. One parchment, however, was smuggled out before the torches were lit. If we’re going to Germany, why are we talking about Peru? Hmm…
Bada-bing, bada-boom… we’re in (West) Germany, and the Metal Men are already confronting Eclipso. That was quick… though, to be fair, they did have his exact destination. Eclipso holds his black diamond to his left eye… and, wrecks Mercury! He then beats the hell out of the rest… before bathing the crew in blackness and ducking away.
After gathering themselves, Magnus and the Mets notice a librarian writhing around in pain. The Doc heads over, and is directed to some paperwork on the desk. The librarian dies right afterward. Gold finds a map with an X marking the spot somewhere in the Peruvian Andes. Oh! That’s why we were talking about Peru!
Along the way, Will welds Mercury’s arm back on… and Merc takes the opportunity to remind us that he is liquid at room temperature.
It’s not long before they arrive in an “unspectacular” clearing… which, I dunno… looks pretty spectacular to me.
Anyhoo, they land the saucer… and are almost immediately attacked (and thrashed) by Eclipso.
It comes down to Eclipso and Tin. Tin is the stuttering, kinda nebbish Metal Man… but perhaps the one with the most heart. He takes to hiding in the saucer… and when Eclipso comes a’calling, he Tin blasts him in the face with Magnus’s welding torch! This burst of light is enough to revert ol’ Moonface to (an apologetic) Bruce Gordon.
When the dust settles, the crew notices that a stone structure attached to the temple appears to be pointing to a mountain pass just off the mainland… on Diablo Island! Surely nothing too ominous about that.
One quick flight later, and we’re on Diablo Island. They enter a cave (which Gordon has apparently already visited back in House of Secrets #67). Inside is an alter… on the alter, a tablet… on the tablet, an inscription of an eclipsed Sun! Iron snags it, and a cave-in commences!
The group flees, tablet in hand. Outside, the Metal Men’s saucer flies overhead and… blocks the Sun, giving the look of a solar eclipse. Uh-oh! Gordon reverts to his two-tone form and snatches the tablet. He then hustles up the side of a cliff to begin chanting the words inscribed!
The Metal Men try and stop him, however, before they can reach the clifftop, Eclipso hurls the tablet into a just-arrived storm cloud. Mercury and Iron team up to get the drop on the Moonfaced creep, but it’s too late. He’s already awakened… Umbra!
Well… I really wanted to like this more than I did, but couldn’t help but to be a bit bored throughout. It actually took me several attempts to get through this one.
I don’t have much of a connection to the Metal Men. I think they’re cool to look at, have some neat character quirks, and work quite well as guest stars… their solo (so to speak) adventures always leave me a bit cold. Not even the threat of Eclipso could fix this for me.
There really isn’t all that much to say here. Everything “worked”, just didn’t “work for me”. I thought Simonson’s art was really nice, so there’s that. I liked the non-action bits where we could really key in on the Metal Men’s idiosyncrasies… Tin’s stutter and insecurity, Platinum diggin’ on “darling” Will Magnus, Mercury reminding us over and over that he’s liquid at room temperature. That stuff I was pretty entertained by. The action scenes and globe-trotting… ehhh…
Eclipso can also be a tough baddie to really invest in. His powers are just so… I dunno, cheap? It’s like at any given moment he can switch… which you’d figure is a great thing for building tension, but with him it’s an expectation. We know it’s going to happen… and it’s always going to happen at the most inopportune time for the heroes. Eh, it’s kind of his thing, so whattayagonnado?
Overall… to me, this is a very pretty book with a few neat character moments. Unfortunately, I was pretty bored/underwhelmed by the rest. |
Evangelist Franklin Graham kicked off a “Decision America Tour” on Tuesday (Jan. 5) in Des Moines, Iowa, urging evangelical Christians to pray about the upcoming election and vote for candidates of any party who agree with their biblical values.
“Our moral walls and gates are down,” said Graham, standing before 2,600 people at the state’s gold-domed Capitol. “Any type of wicked thought and activity can come and go and our educators and our politicians and our churches seem many times to be more concerned about political correctness than God’s truth and his righteousness.”
Graham said that praying and voting Christians are needed to address the troubles facing the country. But, two weeks after he announced his departure from the Republican Party, he said no one party has the answer.
“I have no hope in the Democratic Party,” said the president of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. “Listen to me: I have zero hope in the Republican Party. I have no hope in Tea Party or any other party. My only hope is in almighty God and his son Jesus Christ.”
The crowd, bundled up in warm coats and knit hats with some holding small American flags, cheered.
Saying “America needs the Christian vote,” Graham proposed next steps after the rally, which he intends to replicate across the country from Jan. 12 in Tallahassee, Fla., to March 31 in Sacramento, Calif. Some prayer rallies are still in the planning stages.
The tour’s website includes a three-point pledge for people to commit to pray, vote and consider running for office.
Noting the millions of evangelicals who stayed home during the 2012 election, Graham asked ralliers to make sure their relatives — including nieces and nephews — were registered to vote and to form groups to pray for their communities.
Adelle M. Banks is production editor and a national reporter for RNS
Publication date: January 6, 2016 |
A friend of the 25-year-old who is accused of shooting and killing one woman and injuring several others at a Tennessee church, has described the suspected gunman as a 'deep Christian believer' who lacked aggression.
Emanuel Samson is accused of pulling into the car park of the Burnette Chapel Church of Christ in Antioch on Sunday morning before opening fire.
A neighbour of the suspect and a friend of six years, 20-year-old Dejuan Martin, said that he was shocked by the shooting, telling ABC News that Samson is 'a normal guy'.
He said: 'I didn't believe it. I never thought he'd do something like this.'
Martin described the alleged killer as passionate, outgoing and a 'pretty warm-hearted' person.
Police have said that the motive is under investigation, and the US Attorney's Office says a federal civil rights investigation has been opened.
Police said Samson had allegedly been to this church — which has racially diverse parishioners — one to two years ago.
Four guns believed to be Samson's were recovered: two at the church and two from his car, police said.
Samson is being charged with one count of murder, with additional charges pending.
Melanie Crow Smith, a 39-year-old a married mother of two, was killed during the attack and Samson – a bodybuilder born in Sudan – was arrested at the scene.
He opened fire at the church on Sunday as the service was ending, having been seen in the car park wearing a neoprene mask. His rampage was brought to an end when a church usher, Robert Engle, tackled him and despite being struck on the head by Samson's pistol forced him to shoot himself in the leg.
Engle then ran to his car, where he had a pistol, and held Samson at gunpoint until police arrived.
Engle downplayed his heroics yesterday.
'I ask everyone to pray for the victims, family members of the victims, our church community. Please pray for healing. Also, please pray for the shooter, the shooter's family and friends. They are hurting as well,' the 22-year-old said in a statement.
'The real heroes are the police, first responders and medical staff and doctors who have helped me and everyone affected,' he added.
But Metro Nashville Police Chief Steve Anderson said: 'He's the hero. He's the person who stopped this madness.'
The church's pastor, Joey Spann, and his wife Peggy were also shot. Church member Minerva Rosa, who applied pressure on Spann's wound, praised Engle, saying: 'He's amazing. Without him I think it could be worse. He was the hero today.'
Meanwhie, funeral services have been arranged to take place tomorrow for Melanie Crow Smith. |
A virtual transaction place is a virtual location exactly where parties can easily access important papers. This is an important tool just for due diligence. It gives you privacy and speed. In addition , it helps to eliminate the need for distributed teams.
These platforms have been developed specifically to allow secure sharing of confidential information. They offer the ability to generate, edit and sign files. The software as well features a dashboard that shows the activity of files.
Virtual data rooms are generally used in M&A. They can help streamline decision-making and assist in the buy process. They are generally accessed through multiple programs.
Today’s VDRs are more cost-effective and include multi-level authentication techniques and document-specific protection features. Some also boast advanced security in transit and watermarking.
Virtual info rooms can also provide companies having a secure location to store, view and share private documents. Depending on the user’s needs, they can set up different get levels.
Users can choose to obtain only limited access to documents, or perhaps they can require an NDA for taking a look at. Additionally , conditions data internet room makes for an easy revocation of gain access to if a package isn’t powerful.
When choosing a data room option, it’s important to consider the security on the document storage and just how easy mt4 to use. Make sure that the solution gives ongoing tech support team.
One of the most important functions of any data place is the creation of your foundation with respect to Faster acquisition planning. Documents should be updated frequently. Keeping info up-to-date helps keep them via cluttering the info room and distracting deal individuals. |
The CIA family does not forget its fallen colleagues and proudly looks after those they leave behind. Thanks to the generosity of loyal colleagues and friends like you, the CIA Officers Memorial Foundation continues to expand its program of educational assistance to a broader range of deserving CIA families.
Your support is deeply appreciated by our board, staff and the families of these officers. Contributors are established through a cash contribution, special grants or in-kind donations.
Booz Allen Hamilton
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
MacB, Macaulay-Brown, Inc.
ManTech International Corporation
QinetiQ North America
Tudor Investment Corporation
Marc and Laura Andreessen Fund
Moore Charitable Foundation
R. Terry and Barbara Everett Foundation
Ron Conway Foundation
The Boyce Foundation
The David Herro Charitable Foundation
The Duffield Kids Charitable Foundation
The Glades Foundation
The Starr Foundation
George J. and Marilyn Pedersen
Mark F. Dalton
The Honorable George J. Tenet and Mrs. Tenet |
CIMA+ designed three-phase power to a new development property in Naramata, BC to replace an existing 69 kV transmission line with limited access. Part of the design criteria included improving operational access to the line by relocating it closer to North Naramata Road. The work included upgrading 3.6 km of two-phase conductors to three-phase 3/0 Pigeon and adding two phases to the existing single-phase radial line for an additional 2.8 km. In total, 78 structures were designed and engineered to the CSA Medium B Standard for this project. CIMA+ worked with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, as well as FortisBC, to select the most efficient and cost-effective line route. |
Doris Larkin McAdams Memorial Scholarship
Doris L. McAdams was a member of Beta Zeta Zeta Chapter for 53 years. She embraced and exemplified the ideals of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. A Life Member of the Sorority, she was named Beta Zeta Zeta’s Woman of the Year in 1977 and again in 2008. Her professional training and entire career was focused on education. She was a teacher, librarian, and later an administrator in the Cincinnati Public Schools system and thus helped to shape the lives of many young people, first in Raleigh, North Carolina and later here in Cincinnati, Ohio. To honor her service to Beta Zeta Zeta Chapter and her commitment to education, the chapter awards a scholarship in her name to a graduating female high school senior annually.
Be an African American female senior, graduating from a high school in the Greater
Plan to attend an accredited 4-year college or university in the Fall 2024
Have a minimum GPA of 2.5 or better on a 4.0 scale or equivalent
Complete an online application (scholarship tab) at cincinnatizetas.org
Submit an official sealed transcript via the U.S. Mail
Have submitted (2) letters of recommendation on official letterhead, 1. from a teacher or guidance counselor AND 2. from a faith or community leader, employer or comparable person, attesting to your leadership and community service experience.
Recommendations may be submitted online or mailed and dated or postmarked by January 6, 2024.
Only transcripts via a sealed envelope that are representative of each high school attended are acceptable. The mailing address for transcripts or other documents:
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Beta Zeta Zeta Chapter
P.O. Box 8284
Cincinnati, OH 45208
Recommendations may be mailed or submitted electronically to [email protected] .
The award recipient will receive notification via email and U.S. Mail, no later than April 1, 2024. Recipients or their representatives are expected to participate in an official public presentation of the scholarship, on Saturday, June 8, 2024. Recipients must also submit a current photograph and photo release.
TIPS FOR COMPLETING THE APPLICATION
1. Review and complete all application requirements.
2. Complete the entire application. If a field is not applicable, indicate using the capital letters ‘NA’.
3. Provide the most informative answers possible. For example, instead of simply writing ‘member’ of the Girl Scouts, include that you served as a ‘troop leader’s assistant’ or that you received special recognition for service or attendance.
4. Make sure your name is on all documents.
5. Your written statement will be judged on content and grammar. Please proofread and spell-check your work.
6. Submit all requested information by the deadline.
Questions?: Email: [email protected]
Members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and their immediate family members
are ineligible to apply. (Immediate family members include a spouse, child,
parent, sister, cousin, niece, grandparent, grandchild, step-parent,
step-child, or step-sister of the member.) |
[Risolto] UI/UX Suggestions (or please tell me how to improve usability)
First of all, I am really impressed about the features and power of Cinelerra GG, and this got me wondering why I didn't hear (or see) about it before... I do recognize that maintaining such a project should require a lot of work and dedication, so my intention here isn't simply point to problems but try to bring some ideas and suggestions. I have been using the program for a couple of days, downloaded and read (parts) of the manual (a great work, by the way!), and I was able to configure the program to my needs mostly, but I am still struggling with some points. So if I missed something, pointing to the right direction will be greatly appreciated, of course.
Some background: I am running the latest single-user build for Eoan on Pop!_OS 19.10, the computer is a 2-in1 convertible with an Atom x5 processor and 4GB of RAM. From all programs that I have used so far, Cinelerra GG is by far the slowest regarding user interface, even though I was able to configure its settings and get an almost flawless video playback (I am editing some cached drone videos at 720p and 30fps). It is so slow that if I try to scroll the timeline up and down the whole program freezes for many seconds. Hopefully these are bugs, probably because if the program is used with a larger screen then there is no need to scroll the tracks up and down...
1. UI/UX: my screen is kinda small (1280x800) so the many windows with all those title bars use a lot of space. I think that using an unified view (single window) would help a lot, and it would move the application menu to the top too, where most people are used to. Then certainly a full screen mode would be possible as well, saving even more space for the program.
2. Doing anything in the timeline is very sluggish, even after disabling "Draw media". I really have no idea why, I just hope it might be some configuration while building with Qt since everything else seems normal.
3. Maybe adding an option to show only the first and last frame of clips, or even just the first one, in the timeline would help with performance/memory usage, since completely removing the thumbnails when disabling "Draw media" makes editing much harder (I know it is possible to add names to clips, but it requires much more time for editing and it's far less convenient that seeing the actual thumbnail for that clip).
4. Please add some way to edit the keyframes more easily, either by adding a dedicated screen for them or simply by adding some buttons/shortcuts for navigating them. There are so many powerful tools in Cinelerra GG, but working with keyframes is very frustrating, there is no way to fine-tune their position and/or value.
5. I didn't find a "snapping" toggle anywhere... I don't know if it is because doing anything in the timeline is so slow with me, but it is really hard to move things around so they easily "snap" to the end/beginning of other clips.
If any tests or further info would help with the suggestions above, please let me know.
Thanks again for this incredible program!
Hopefully, some one with more experience will address your slowness. I do not see this on my laptop but I only load small videos and do not do any "real" editing - just testing of the new features or attempt to reproduce problems for analysis. However, I will address some of what you mentioned.
1. Single screen versus multiple screens - Cinelerra has been around since even before 2000 when computers had less capability and it was designed with multiple screens. It does not use QT (this is sometimes a source of consternation as it would be helpful in some scenarios). There is a lot of benefit to having multiple screens that you may appreciate in the future when you get used to them. BUT for now, use the Window pulldown on the main/timeline window and "Save Layout" to set up different window placements to use. I have noticed that several users, tend to put the Resources window in the upper left hand corner, extend the Main window timeline to make it longer, and leave Show Overlays window up. I do not see the possibility of a Single screen because the multiple screens is just too useful for us.
2. I think most users change the Settings->Preferences, Playback A tab, Video Driver to X11-OpenGL. With a good graphics board, this should be helpful. The default is X11. There is also X11-Direct which for playback can really speed things up. As far as GPU hardware decoding -- this can improve performance, but it is limited in the formats it handles depending on your graphics board and graphics software. Recently we had been provided with a Drone output video and that video was "profile 66" and it produced the error "Codec h264 profile 66 not supported for hardware decode".
As always, more memory on your computer helps. A really big help is to use "Proxy" under the Settings pulldown. It is pretty well debugged. "Tips for Using Smaller Computers" chapter in the manual (I think it is section 19.5) is not just for small computers. For example, turn off the Thumbnails in the Resources window -- Settings->Preferences, Appearance tab.
P.S. We are unaware of any specific bugs having to do with performance.
3. I have no feedback on this at this time.
4. I have never heard any reports of the difficulty of using keyframes. I will see if I can figure out why this may be difficult.
5. There are several ways to easily line up the edits but the "traditional" snapping is best described in a very short paragraph in the Editing chapter, section 5.7.9. We added several shortcuts for these as described there:
snap_left_edit ctrl+alt+ ','
snap_right_label ctrl+alt +shift '.' shift+period is the > sign on US keyboards
snap_left_label ctrl+alt +shift',' shift+comma is the < sign on US keyboards
We have a LOT of shortcuts so when Snapping and Snapping while Dragging were added, we had to make do with whatever we could use for characters. It is easier for me to just line the edits up manually by watching the colors when in Drag and Drop mode (not the default mode which is Insert mode instead). And there are other ways to tell when things are lined up next to each other in Insert mode when double arrows appear.
Hey, @phyllissmith! Thanks a lot for your reply. Sorry about the confusion, I thought Cinelerra was build using Qt, but in the end it doesn't really matter.
1. Sure, multiple windows has its advantages, but the title bars use lots of space... You can see in many videos/tutorials that usually part of the UI is covered by other windows when the screen isn't big enough. And being a single window does not mean that you cannot have floating windows (or panels) too. For instance, both Shotcut and Olive use a single window interface, but you can unlock the panels and arranje them as tabs in the interface, making switching between them very easy. Custom layouts help for sure, but I was suggesting something to improve the UI so it would adapt better for any screen size.
2. Yeah, I have tried all that as well as all the options from the manual regarding performance. The video play back is very good, but no matter what I do the program window is very sluggish, it is why I think there is something wrong regarding the UI specifically. As I said previously, simply scrolling the tracks up and down is painfully slow, or when trying to move clips is very slow too, even with all the options and settings to improve performance enabled. This happens even with and empty project with just a photo or a solid color in the timeline... If it helps, I can try to capture a video showing the problem, but right now I only have access to a very slow internet connection so it may take a while to upload the video.
3. Every time I change "Draw media" the program takes a long time to rebuild the thumbnails, and the same happens while playing the timeline and it scrolls, so maybe it is related to the slow performance somehow...
4. Maybe it is related to the slow response of my program window, but every time I try to create or move a keyframe in the timeline it is a pain: even if I make the program window full screen and the tracks taller, it is very hard to click on them without creating a new keyframe, etc...
5. Thanks for the shortcuts tip, I did miss them. Same about the "double arrow", I think I didn't understand how to do that yet, but I will look further. Anyway, I think the "snapping" feature with a toggle would be very useful, specially for beginners in the drag&drop mode, and probably it is a good idea to make it enabled by default.
On the left side in the patchbay there is a switch ("the eye") with which the graphical display of the media can be switched off. You have already discovered it and you should leave it off with your computer. Without this thumbnails the speed of editing is increased enormously. For beginners this is often irritating, because they orientate themselves on the timeline with this thumbnails, but with time you get used to it. By the way, these thumbnails only show the approximate position on the timeline, only the Composer display is correct.
For performance try unchecked "Play every frame", it's an option that weighs heavily on playback. For playback only it is better to use X11; however if you add various effects then it is better to switch to X11-OpenGL.
What format and codec does your drone use? There are formats that give "seek" problems (for example mkv format, to me). In these cases it's better to use Transcode to make the media uniform to a more manageable format (some people recommend proxies in mjpg because they're very light and hassle-free).
Another workaround is to disable playback (from patchbay) of all tracks except the ones you are working on.
Last tip is to calibrate the cache to use. This takes a lot of testing and a lot of time and is done using the "top" console command, to check resource usage as you test.
1- Unfortunately the windowed interface is not editable because it is not based on GTK, QT or anything else, but on Guicast, personally created by the original developer. It's an old issue that everyone has faced sooner or later, but that would require rewriting all the code. However you are in a borderline condition, large screens and even multi-monitors are required for smooth video editing. Try disabling the windows you don't need and leaving only the Main and Compositor. Then, uncomfortably, turn up Resource and Viewer whenever you need them; even overlaying them with the ones you already have.
2, 3- A workaround could be changing the colors of the track (right click --> "bar color") to distinguish one edit from another. So you can leave only the title bar. For media recognition we have to go to the Resources window, maybe using the "Inter-view" view. Anyway the idea of leaving only the first and last frame visible is good; let's hear what GG says.
4- The only way I found is to be sure to position the cursor precisely over the point of the keyframe, and only then click. It's also a problem with the Mask tool, but I must say I've quickly got used to working with more precision.
5- Good idea to have a switch in Preferences to make the snap of the edits by default.
NOTE: if you want to make precise requests it's better to use the Bug Tracker, so that you don't lose track over time.
Thanks a lot for your replies, @Olaf and @andreapaz (by the way, thanks a lot about your video about the new release, that is why I knew about the user manual, it is great that you added EN subtitles).
Indeed I have tried most of the suggestions that you gave me, and indeed the only way to speed up the timeline in my case is by disabling the assets. For small projects it is not a big deal. My suggestions was more for improving Cinelerra GG even more, mostly for new users (if the learning curse is too steep then probably they will seek another alternative).
Too bad that it is not possible to implement a single window mode. I can deal with a few windows and different layouts, that is one of the good features of the GG Infinity version.
As I was not sure if these issues are related to my configuration/setup I though it would be better to post here in the forum for discussion first. If specific items can go to the Bug Tracker, I will gladly add them later.
Just out of ignorance on my part what is this thing? -- "single-user build for Eoan on Pop!_OS 19.10" -- I mean which operating system build?
Some more feedback:
I have logged a Bug Tracker issue #392 for looking into the possibility of adding an option for Single window after talking to gg. It is not out of the realm of possibility but of low priority.
Also logged BT #393 for an automatic "Snap" option preference, but gg is not sure how this should work.
Finally, gg wonders if there is anything unusual about your media -- drone 720p 25fps should not be performance issue. If you have an example of one that goes slow, he could at least look at it to see if it is a problem here if you want to put it somewhere where he can grab it. Or send it to my email if it is private so it will not be shared: [email protected]
Just out of ignorance on my part what is this thing? -- "single-user build for Eoan on Pop!_OS 19.10" -- I mean which operating system build?
Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu, so version 19.10 > Ubuntu 19.10 = Eoan Ermine, so I have installed "cinelerra-5.1-ub19-x86_64-static.txz".
Thanks for the replies and time for adding the Bt issues, I do appreciate it. The problem isn't the media. As I said before, even if I simply add a photo or a color frame/title using the filters anything I try to do in the program window (where the timeline is located) is very sluggish. The only way I could use the program is by disabling the assets (all tracks show only their name/label), but them it is very hard to adjust keyframes, etc...
You might want to try starting up CinGG from terminal, to see if there are any "strange" messages that might reveal something. Otherwise, there's a real debugging to be done (gdb, valgrind?). But this is beyond my skills.
LFOM: "Atom x5 processor and 4GB of RAM."
"[…] With this, the Atom x5-Z8350 easily handles all Android apps and is also suitable for simple everyday applications under Windows. […]
Graphics: Under Windows users will therefore have to continue to limit themselves to very old and undemanding games".
Does this apply to your PC?
If an Nvidia graphics card is installed, are the original drivers installed or the combination Nouveau/Mesa?
glxinfo | grep vendor
You might want to post here the output of "inxi -F"
No errors at all. I am running Gnome on Wayland as it is way faster than X11 for normal tasks (web videos, scrolling, etc), but I have also logged in using the normal X11 system and it was the same.
Again, just to make it clear: video playback and UI works fine as long as I don't do anything related to the program window itself (timeline). I have created proxies (Cinelerra GG Infinity handles them pretty well, automatically) and optimized the program for my hardware using the tips from the manual and the forum, and it works great until I have to move a clip in the timeline or try to create/move a keyframe, that's why my post is about the UI/UX. Other programs are usually the opposite: using the timeline is normally snappy.
Yeah, sure. And it has no hybrid graphics, it uses the Intel HD video driver only (what works acceptable with Wayland and vaapi).
But, again, it is not the issue: how Cinelerra GG Inifinty handles the media isn't my issue, far from this (it is actually the best NLE for this, because of how it handles proxies), but using the timeline, specifically, is very sluggish for me. If I simply open Cinelerra GG with a brand new empty project and just add a simple title I have the exact same issues. Sure, if I disable everything in the timeline and see only the clips titles it works in an acceptable manner. I was not sure if it could be improved or not. If you say that's how it works, then OK, I am simply suggesting that it maybe could be improved to help new users and/or improve usability, as my suggestion to add an option to only show the first and/or last frame for each clip in the timeline (a cache can be used, speeding up things, perhaps).
$ glxinfo | grep vendor
server glx vendor string: SGI
client glx vendor string: Mesa Project and SGI
OpenGL vendor string: Intel Open Source Technology Center
Hey, I think it was you that left a comment in that itsfoss.com article that made me install Cinelerra GG Infinity. Thanks!
$ inxi -F
Host: miix320-pop Kernel: 5.3.0-7642-generic x86_64 bits: 64
Desktop: Gnome 3.34.3 Distro: Pop!_OS 19.10
Type: Detachable System: LENOVO product: 80XF v: Lenovo MIIX 320-10ICR
serial: <root required>
Mobo: LENOVO model: LNVNB161216 v: SDK0J91196WIN serial: <root required>
UEFI: LENOVO v: 5HCN39WW date: 05/11/2018
ID-1: BAPM charge: 33.3 Wh condition: 33.3/33.3 Wh (100%)
Topology: Quad Core model: Intel Atom x5-Z8350 bits: 64 type: MCP
L2 cache: 1024 KiB
Speed: 480 MHz min/max: 480/1920 MHz Core speeds (MHz): 1: 480 2: 480 3: 485
Device-1: Intel Atom/Celeron/Pentium Processor x5-E8000/J3xxx/N3xxx Integrated
driver: i915 v: kernel
Display: wayland server: X.Org 1.20.5 driver: i915 resolution: 1280x800~60Hz
OpenGL: renderer: Mesa DRI Intel HD Graphics (Cherrytrail) v: 4.5 Mesa 19.2.8
Device-1: Intel Atom/Celeron/Pentium Processor x5-E8000/J3xxx/N3xxx Series
Sound Server: ALSA v: k5.3.0-7642-generic
Device-1: Intel Wireless 3165 driver: iwlwifi
IF: wlp1s0 state: up mac: 74:70:fd:90:af:e7
IF-ID-1: anbox0 state: unknown speed: N/A duplex: N/A mac: 7e:88:87:1d:9a:22
Local Storage: total: 116.48 GiB used: 93.61 GiB (80.4%)
ID-1: /dev/mmcblk0 model: DF4128 size: 116.48 GiB
ID-1: / size: 37.87 GiB used: 29.04 GiB (76.7%) fs: ext4 dev: /dev/mmcblk0p8
ID-2: swap-1 size: 4.00 GiB used: 0 KiB (0.0%) fs: swap dev: /dev/dm-0
System Temperatures: cpu: 46.0 C mobo: N/A
Fan Speeds (RPM): N/A
Processes: 250 Uptime: 3h 56m Memory: 3.71 GiB used: 1.51 GiB (40.8%)
Shell: zsh inxi: 3.0.36
Again, I know that my hardware won't run Cinelerra GG Infinity at full speed, the intuit of this post is to improve/enhance the UI/UX usability, maybe from the perspective of a new user. Hopefully I will be able to capture a video showing the issue and I will post it here soon. Thanks again for all the replies.
I forgot to provide feedback on this suggestion -- "to add an option to only show the first and/or last frame for each clip in the timeline" -- GG does not see this as feasible from a programming viewpoint or from a user viewpoint as quite often both the first and last frame are just black.
I wish we could see what you see because there is no way for the programmer to fix something if he can't reproduce it.
I see.. But even if it's just a full black thumbnail, it would make it much easier to see the junctions of clips, wouldn't it? And it not always black (in my experience, once you starting creating the clips for the timeline they hardly are black. Anyway, I don't know how it was coded, but using a cache for both starting and ending thumbnails seems like an improvements, instead of rebuilding all of them (if they are already cached, then I don't know what to say)...
Sure, I will try to make a short video showing the problem. Is it OK to compare it with another program, so you can see how it works?
We are not familiar with actually using any of the other NLE's and purposely stay away from them so we do not copy their work. But It is OK to compare a demo with another program so we can see the difference. |
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