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Lincolnshire's popular annual weekend of sport and activity is retuning on Saturday and Sunday - in time for the start of the school holidays.
Leisure centres, clubs and organisations across the county will be opening their doors to encourage children of all ages and adults to come and have a go at something they love, or to try something new.
Among the venues taking part will be Magna Vitae's Meridian Leisure Centre in Louth.
There you can find lots of free or low-cost activities across the weekend from 8am–4pm.
These will include badminton, swimming (lessons and pool inflatable), plus dodgeball and multi-skills.


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If you are a local business here in Gainesville, Georgia and are looking to reduce the size of your traditional waste containers or reduce the frequency of your waste pick up service, you should start by composting food and organic waste. Composting is the most efficient way to deal with food waste. By continuing to dump food waste into a landfill or combustion facility strains our waste system overtime, and also leads to the release of major greenhouse gases, including methane and carbon dioxide.
Did you know that over one fourth of all food produced for human consumption goes to waste? The annual value of this excess food is estimated at around $31 billion.1 There is great potential for restaurants, grocery stores, food processors and other businesses to utilize their food waste and save money. Food waste is the third largest portion of the U.S. waste stream, yet at a recovery rate just under 3%, it is currently the least recovered portion.2 In 2015, the USDA cited "Food loss and waste in the United States accounts for approximately 31 percent — or 133 billion pounds — of the overall food supply available to retailers and consumers...".
Foothills Compost® can provide you with resources and solutions to reduce, reuse, and compost your food waste, thereby returning our finished product to your community! When food waste is brought to our composting facility, it is mixed with wood chips and allowed to decompose until it forms fertile compost that can be used for gardening and landscaping. This process conserves natural resources by returning valuable nutrients to the soil, and it conserves water by forming soils that retain moisture better. Ask your local restaurants, schools and businesses if they separate their food waste to help our environment! If not, tell them to call Foothills Compost® today and let us start helping your business save money and minimize landfill contribution!
Check out what we have been up to on our blog.
October 2018

subset: commoncrawl


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In short, the "big five" tech companies are all in the early stages of a race to wean us off of the graphical interface, the open web, and the app ecosystem, and train us to use their respective A.I. assistants as our primary portal to the internet.
–Will Oremus in Slate


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Dressing Up with Darling: Rocker Chic
Linnea White
I got my hot pants, my hot pants, I got my hot pants on. This week boasts a little neighborly inspiration. When we brought in these Isabel Marant jeans, our neighbors at The Southern Cafe and Music Hall inspired us to explore our rocker edge. Check out this rocker chic style, and these amazing printed jeans.
Isabel Marant jeans, $120 / Banana Republic top, $18 / Grace & Glory Triangle Bracelet, $18 / Thistle & Lark triangle necklace, $18 / Helmut Lang purse, $200
Find these pieces and more at Darling Boutique on the downtown mall!
Styled by Linnea White / Photography by Megan Tiernan


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On the occasion of her mum's birthday, controversial former Big Brother Naija 2017 housemate, Tokunbo Idowu a.k.a TBoss took to Instagram to celebrate and her mum Stella Idowu.
The excited reality star wrote a lovely message to her mum and also share some adorable throwback pictures of herself as a young kid and her mum.
She wrote;
"No I can't Keep Calm- Today's my Mami's Birthday … Unfortunately I'm missing this day once again and God only knows how much it hurts but I know you understand why I cannot be there with you in the physical but definitely gonna be eating all the food in the spirit…I'm sending you All my Love and Best wishes, good health, happiness, peace of mind, beautiful long life and Love- Yes I still keep praying for ❤. I hope I make you proud and just give me a little more time and I promise to make you Super Duper Uber proud si o sa ti cumpar o casa- in curand. La Multi Ani mami and have a fabulous one❤❤❤…. #positivevibesonly#lifeisbeautiful#family#loveislove#loveliveshere#noroomforugly#JesusDontLikeUgly#noteverywomanisamother"
Check out the adorable pictures she shared below;


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2nd Birthday
So just over 2 week ago Finn turned 2 and its true what everyone says, time really goes by quick.
We organised a small birthday party for him and with his much loved interest for 'things that go' decided to go with a transport theme. Incase its not clear there its meant to be a fire engine on the cake (cake decorating is clearly a skill I don't have, ha!)
I will admit my planning and to do list wasn't at the level of last year (this pregnancy isn't giving me much energy) but I did managed to get a paint brush out and create a few cardboard vehicles (pic above), which we stuck on the windows. It was so worth it as straight away Finny started pointing and listing them (last year's painted animals weren't such a hit). For other decor we put up the bunting from the last year and a load of balloons. Thankfully most of the food was taken care of by Gaga and Fafa (utter life savers), so all in all there was no stress for me.
Present wise we decided on a play kitchen (Ikea) as he is always keen to make tea (for me) and coffee (for mark). We included some pots, pans, fruit and veg and thought it best to build/set up everything the night before meaning I spent most of the evening constructing (always love a good ikea challenge though plus Mark never reads instruction so really can't be trusted to help :)). Mark put up the decorations and when the morning came Finn excitedly came upstairs and headed straight over to the first balloon he could find, which he played with most of the morning…I love how sometimes its the simplest things.
I would say the day/party was a clear hit, he ate all his favourite sweet things, got to play loads with his best buddy Emil and throughly enjoyed us singing 'Happy Birthday' to him (which he also sang to himself several time through the day), come bedtime he was asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow.
I do have one regret though that we didn't take more pictures, I always find it the case when theres other thing to do, next celebration I'm holding a camera permanently in my hand.
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Call us today on 02393 233 131 to arrange a viewing and meet the team
Or click on Contact Us below and fill in our small form.
Gatcombe House is located 4minutes from Junction 12 of the M27 and is within 10 minutes' drive of Portsmouth town centre. We're only 1 hour from London.
Public transport:
There are bus stops located within 2 minutes' walk, and Hilsea train station is only a 10 minute walk away.
Roko Health & Fitness Club is directly opposite the House has a coffee shop that is open to the public.
Gatcombe Park is right next door to the House for when you feel like a breath of fresh air.


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When learning really makes a difference … shifting mindsets to get lasting change
Knowledge and skills are not even half the battle when it comes to getting lasting performance improvement.
People not only need to know what to do and how to do it, they need to have the confidence to do it, the judgement to know when to do it, and the dedication to break old habits, overcome self-limiting beliefs, and construct new - more helpful - mental models.
Only then will we consistently see people taking the great leaps forward that we - and they - aspire to.
In this podcast, I chat to Emma Shaw, an enthusiast for L&D that's all about mindset shifts - which also happens to be my own favourite part of the business.


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The new Mohave operating system is loaded with great features. Let's look at two of them that will help you make better visual presentations.
Camera Continuity
When building a presentation, wouldn't it be convenient to be able to take a picture or scan a document with your iPhone and immediately have it appear on your laptop? Camera Continuity, a feature built into Mohave, allows you to do just that.
Camera Continuity
Take a picture or scan a document with your iPhone and have it show up immediately on your laptop.
Here is a YouTube video explaining this feature in full:
screen capture tools
Mohave now has a built in screen capture tool that allows you to capture both images and videos, edit them, and immediately save them for use in your presentations. This is similar to the functionality of Snagit, a program also discussed on this site. Give this a try by simply clicking Shift+Command+5, which creates a resizable window and brings up the tools available to capture what is on your screen.


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Diners call for restaurants to serve sustainable fish
Almost 90 per cent of British diners have said they want restaurants to serve only sustainable seafood on their menus, as almost three quarters are unaware which fish are close to extinction.
A YouGov survey of 2,000 UK adults commissioned by Waitrose reveals that consumers are not educated enough about sustainable fishing issues, with 78 per cent of them admitting they don't bother to choose seafood from a sustainable source.
However, upon informing them of sustainable fishing issues, 70 per cent claimed they would be more likely to seek out seafood from sustainable sources, with over half prepared to pay twice the price for more ethical food.
Mark Price, Waitrose managing director, said: "The booming human population could wipe out fish stocks within this century if we don`t act now. This is an environmental disaster, and it will have a real and tangible impact on us all as consumers, retailers, chefs, or fishermen. Given the facts, 70 per cent of people want to buy sustainable fish, so it is our responsibility to make that possible."
The news comes as the release of The End of the Line, a film by Charles Clover described as An Inconvenient Truth for the oceans, has inspired a high profile list of celebrities including Sienna Miller, Charlize Theron, Sting and Woody Harrelson to send a letter to Nobu Matsuhisa, chef owner of Nobu, to request that he stop serving Bluefin tuna on his menu.
The Japanese restaurant has continued to serve the endangered species with a warning on the menu to diners about its proximity to extinction, but claims there 'is a demand for this delicacy at all our restaurants'.
High street food retailers have also started to move toward providing food from sustainable sources, with Pret A Manger founder Justin Metcalfe removing unethically caught tuna from sandwiches and sushi boxes sold at its UK stores. Marks and Spencer has also announced it is to source only pole and line or line-caught tuna for its fresh foods by the end of June, with the same happening for canned tuna by the end of the year.


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ABITA PURPLE HAZE 1/2 BARRELItem #: i_437177Bottle Size: 1/2BAbita Brewing Co, Covington, Louisiana
Purple Haze® is a lager brewed with real raspberries added after filtration. It is brewed with pilsner and wheat malts and Vanguard hops. The berries add a fruity aroma, tartly sweet taste and a subtle purple color and haze...you may see fruit pulp in the beer.
ALASKAN AMBER 1/2 BARREL KEGItem #: i_400194Bottle Size: 1/2BAlaskan Brewing Co Juneau, Alaska - Richly malty and long on the palate, with just enough hop backing to make this beautiful amber colored alt style beer notably well-balanced.
ALLAGASH TRIPEL 5.2 GALLON KEGItem #: i_437192Bottle Size: 5GAllagash Brewing Company Portland, Maine
This strong golden ale is marked by passion fruit and herbal notes in the aroma, with suggestions of banana and honey in the complex palate. The Tripel has a remarkably long and smooth finish. 9% ABV
ALLAGASH WHITE ALE 5 GALLON KEGItem #: i_466749Bottle Size: 5GOur interpretation of a traditional Belgian wheat beer. Brewed with a generous portion of wheat and spiced with coriander and Curacao orange peel, this beer is fruity, refreshing and slightly cloudy in appearance.
ANDERSON VALLEY BOONT AMBER ALE 1/2 BARREL KEGItem #: i_438682Bottle Size: 1/2BAnderson Valley Brewing Company, Boonville, CA
Boont Amber Ale
From deep in the Anderson Valley comes the world-famous, award-winning, crowd-pleasing Boont Amber Ale. The Anderson Valley Brewing Company has been hand crafting this amazing ale for over twenty years, making Boont Amber Ale one of the most respected, enjoyed, and sought-after craft beers of all time. Boont Amber Ale is an ode to balance, with a deep copper color offset by an off-white head. The slightly sweet malty backbone is balanced perfectly with a subtle hop bite and aroma, and a wonderfully fruity yeast profile. Named "the best beer brewed in Northern California," by the San Francisco Bay Guardian, a beer like this is perfect with any meal, and is enjoyed night-after-night, all year round. As with all of our products, Boont Amber Ale is never sterile filtered nor heat pasteurized.
ANDERSON VALLEY HOP OTTIN IPA 1/2 BARREL 13.2 GALLItem #: i_400790Bottle Size: 1/2BAnderson Valley Brewing Company
Boonville, California
Hop Ottin' India Pale Ale
Hop Ottin' IPA is, just like Anderson Valley itself, easy for anyone to appreciate while offering depth and complexity for those who take the time to savor. Brilliant copper color with a lingering, lacy white head. The nose sings of grapefruit, pine needles, citron, roses, and bergamot. The flavor is rich in the citrusy, resiny flavors typical of the Pacific-Northwest hops packed into this beer, balanced artfully with a solid malt character and crisp bitterness leading to a beautifully dry, light herbal finish. More than just a hop lover's dream, Hop Ottin' IPA is a balanced beer for the ages.
As with all of our products, Hop Ottin' IPA is never sterile filtered nor heat pasteurized.
ANDERSON VALLEY POLEEKO PALE ALE 1/2 BARREL KEGItem #: i_400009Bottle Size: 1/2BAnderson Valley Brewing Company
Boonville, California
Poleeko Pale Ale
Anderson Valley is a pristine, unspoiled setting, and with Poleeko Pale Ale, the Anderson Valley Brewing Company has inspired a perfect reflection of the purity of its home.
Like the valley itself, Poleeko Pale is sparkling, refreshing, profoundly simple yet always surprising. It has a light golden body, bright white head, and, a clean, crisp flavor anyone can appreciate. The malt is light like an english biscuit, the hops a delicate balance of bitterness and citrus. Anderson Valley makes no lighter bodied beer, making this a favorite for everyone, beer aficionado and novice alike.
As with all of our products, Poleeko Pale Ale is never sterile filtered nor heat pasteurized.
ANDERSON VALLEY SUMMER OR WINTER SOLSTICE 13.2 GALItem #: 400884Bottle Size: 1/2BAnderson Valley Brewing Company
Boonville, California
Summer Solstice Seasonal Ale
Summer Solstice Seasonal Ale is not just your average summer seasonal. This unique copper colored ale is smooth, malty, and lightly sweet, with a delicate hint of spice for that oh-so-drinkable, extra velvety flavor.
As with all of our products, Summer Solstice Seasonal Ale is never sterile filtered nor heat pasteurized.
Winter Solstice Seasonal Ale
The holidays are a special time in Anderson Valley. The days are darker, weather colder, and foods richer. And Anderson Valley
AVERY WHITE RASCAL 1/2 BARREL KEG 15.5 GALLONItem #: i_435892Bottle Size: 1/2BAVERY BREWING CO.
White Rascal Belgian Style Wheat Ale (or "WitBier")
A truly authentic Belgian style wheat or "white" ale, this Rascal is unfiltered (yup, that's yeast on the bottom) and cleverly spiced with coriander and Curaçao orange peel producing a refreshingly zesty classic ale.
Food pairing: Spicy Thai or Mexican dishes provide a level of heat and spiciness required to balance the semi-sweet, citrus flavors found in White Rascal. Our favorites are pad thai, green curry, blackened codfish and ceviche.
ABV: 5.6% IBUs: 22
BASS PALE ALE 1/2 BARREL 15.5 GALLON KEGItem #: i_436007Bottle Size: 1/2BCoors UKBurton-upon-Trent, EnglandBrewed in UK by Coors for Interbrew. UK. Cask; Regular (4.4%) Also available in bottled (pasteurised) form as Our Finest Ale (4.4%). USA: Available in bottles (pasteurised) as Bass Pale Ale (5.1%)Belgium. Available in bottles as Bass Pale Ale (5.2%)Come enjoy the classic English ale. For hundreds of years, the traditional English pub has offered an irresistable combination of fine ale and warm welcome. Bass Ale comes from the very heart of this tradition. Take a look at how Bass Ale, the authentic flavor that has been sought after in all of England's finest pubs, has spanned throughout five continents.
BEAR REPUBLIC RACER 5 INDIA PALE ALE 1/2 BARREL KEItem #: i_400964Bottle Size: 1/2BBear Republic Brewing
Cloverdale, CA
Racer 5 IPA® American India Pale Ale
This hoppy American IPA is a full bodied beer brewed American pale and crystalmalts, and heavily hopped with Chinook, Cascade, Columbus and Centennial.
BEAR REPUBLIC RACER 5 INDIA PALE ALE 5 GALLON KEGItem #: i_438600Bottle Size: 5GBear Republic Brewing
Cloverdale, CA
Racer 5 IPA® American India Pale Ale
This hoppy American IPA is a full bodied beer brewed American pale and crystalmalts, and heavily hopped with Chinook, Cascade, Columbus and Centennial.
BELHAVEN SCOTTISH 50LItem #: i_401460Bottle Size: 1/2BKEGSBelhavenDunbar, East Lothian, ScotlandClear, yellowy amber with excellent foamy blanket leaving nice lace. Aroma a bit musty with subtle english hops. Surprising peat flavour that wasn't apparent in the aroma in good balance with malt and low bittering. Very clean finish. Medium body and low carbonation.
BITBURGER PREMIUM PILS 50 LITER 13.2 GALLON KEGItem #: i_438939Bottle Size: 1/2BBrauerei Th. Simon GmbHBitburg, GermanyThe classic Bitburger - a mature and most agreeable beer - is brewed with the best of ingredients in the same traditional way it has been for many, many years. The result is delicately tart and pleasantly bitter - with a strong hop taste.
BLUE MOON BELGIAN STYLE WHITE 5 GALItem #: i_436669Bottle Size: 5GBlue Moon BrewingToronto, CanadaMade with white wheat, oats, corriander, orange peel. Full flavor with a smooth finish, light spicy citrus favors go great with chicken, seafood, and pork.
BLUE MOON BELGIAN STYLE WHITE ALE 1/2 BARREL KEGItem #: i_436508Bottle Size: 1/2BBlue Moon Brewing, Made with white wheat, oats, corriander, orange peel. Full flavor with a smooth finish, light spicy citrus favors go great with chicken, seafood, and pork.
CISMONTANE CITIZEN CALIFORNIAN LAGER 1/2BBL KEGItem #: i_400019Bottle Size: 1/2BCismontane Brewing
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Citizen California Lager
The California Common almost disappeared after prohibition as did the term Cismontane. Our interpretation of this style is a golden warm fermented lager with sufficient hop aroma. As a brewer and citizen of Cismontane California it is our obligation to produce a fine Californian Common.
COORS LIGHT 1/2 BARREL KEG 15.5 GALLONItem #: i_436417Bottle Size: 1/2BDOMESTIC--Coors Brewing CompanyGolden, ColoradoAmerican light lager brewed with Rocky Mountain water, malted barley, corn, hops, and yeast. 4.2% Alcohol by Volume.


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Inspired by the true story of a coyote that rode Portland's MAX light rail train in 2002.Spotify: http://smarturl.it/StrangersSpotifyhttp://www.modestmouse.comhttps://www.facebook.com/ModestMousehttps://twitter.com/modestmousebandinstagram.com/modestmouse
On the one hand, casting a coyote as the lead in Modest Mouse's new video for Strangers to Ourselves track "Coyotes" seems a little on the nose. That said, the little rust-coloured scavenger gets to ride public transit in the clip, and it's pretty damn adorable. Apparently based on the true story of a coyote hopping on Portland's light rail system in 2002 (an incident also saluted by Sleater-Kinney), the video is a candid look at a canine's scenic transit ride through the City of Roses. Whether hopping from seat to seat, eyeballing prey, or dozing off and entering an in-the-wild dreamscape, the little furball has its voyage scored by the gentle, folkish flavours of Modest Mouse's new tune. You can catch the super cute clip above. Strangers to Ourselves arrives March 3 through Modest Mouse frontman Isaac Brock's own Glacial Pace imprint, but "Coyotes" goes up as a digital download tomorrow (January 20).-- Exclaim!
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He who joyfully marches in rank and file has already earned my contempt.
He has been given a large brain by mistake, since for him the spinal cord would suffice.(Albert Einstein)


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A pop of color – numerous innovative INEOS Styrolution material offerings now allow homeowners to customize their homes with windows and accessories well beyond the former, traditional white-only options.
Window Profiles
Window profile extruders use Luran® S in their profile co-extrusion as an ASA cap layer over a PVC substrate to achieve excellent weather resistance and meet the diversify color requirements. As a leading ASA supplier, superior consistency helps manufacturers stabilize product quality and enhance their brand image.
Spacer Bars for Insulative Glass Windows
Customized for window frames and structural parts in the building and construction industry, Luran® offers a clear advantage to metal plastic combinations and structural parts of this kind. It features best-in-class weatherability, thermal insulation and thus improves energy efficiency. It can also be produced to customer's exact color specifications.
Window Accessories
Luran® S materials deliver excellent injection molding and co-extrusion capabilities that will not fade, resulting in lower warranty claims for window and door manufacturers.
PVC Window Blinds
The addition of Luran® to PVC blends has shown to increase HDT properties by up to 10°C in mid-range to dark color window blinds. This extra heat boost is important in applications such as window blinds, which are subject to excessive heat absorption.


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Most Word users think of mail merge as a synonym for "form letters" or "junk mail." Although it's true that Word can churn out form letters and bulk mailings until the cows come home, the term mail merge only hints at what you can do with this capability.
At its most basic, a mail-merge operation consists of two parts—a database and a document—and the "merge" just brings the two together. The database can contain just about anything—names and addresses are the most common contents, of course, but you can also stuff the database with product names, court case citations, serial numbers, invoices, test scores, or anything else you can fit into a database record.
The document, too, can take just about ...
No credit card required


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My Favourite Eyeshadows - Swatches
Today I uploaded a very requested video - my top 10 eyeshadows.
I figured I should do a blog post with some swatches of the eyeshadows that I mentioned so that you get a better idea of what the colours look like when applied on the skin.
Without further ado - here are the swatches:
From left to right:
Le Metier De Beaute - Corinthian
MAC - Satin Taupe
NARS - Nepal
From left to right:
MAC - Mulch
MAC - Soft Brown
From left to right:
NARS - Demon Lover (usually comes in a Duo, this is the darker shade)
MAC - Blanc Type
Chanel - Taupe Grise
From left to right:
Bare Minerals - Nude Beach
Bobbi Brown - Hot Stone
MAC - Style Snob
It shouldn't come as a shocker that I am a big fan of neutrals. There are a few more shades from MAC that I also love and are worth an honourable mention (MAC Sketch, Brulee, Bronze, Wedge and Swiss Chocolate) but I had to draw the line somewhere. I might do an update on this a few months or a year down the line and see what changed. I am a sucker for bronzy or taupe shades :)


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On 28 June 2018 Preqin Solutions hosted a lunch talk on Technological Improvements in Private Equity at The Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (HKVCA). Established in 1987, the HKVCA has a long history of bringing together venture capital and private equity firms. The association encourages its member …Read More
Tag Archives: Operational efficiencies


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Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about doing business with us are listed below. Of course, if you'd prefer to talk with us in person, you can feel free to visit any of our locations or call us at (703) 584-0840.
|Current Deposit Rates
|General Banking
|Online Banking


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24 Metal Bed Headboards You'll Love
Metal bed headboards – Have you bought a new bed? Well, do not throw your old headboard so fast! Bring new life with these great ideas for reuse. The headboards of the old beds can be a great tool to transform them into something else entirely in a very simple way. There are plenty of ideas that can be made from these old bed headboards, so why not recycle them? If you like the DIY world, then you has to see the ideas that we bring, since from a simple headboard you can create a bench, a shelf or a nice table. The size of the room, the people that will occupy the bedroom or the type of material are as relevant as the style we want to choose. It is up to us to get a rustic, bohemian, romantic, modern, traditional, informal, masculine, unisex bedroom among many other possibilities.
For small bedrooms, opt for low headboards and light colors that leave useful space for other things and create amplitude. And for large bedrooms, nothing likes the high and stately headboards of the bed that govern the whole space. For hardcore romantics, wrought-iron bed headboards are the ideal choice, because their designs full of provocative curves let the imagination of these passionate flowers. The headboards of bed toppers are in high demand because they fit in almost all styles. They are perfect for couples or singles. Cold tones are left for more masculine bedrooms. For very modern bedrooms, nothing likes metal bed headboards in straight lines. These are one of the most acclaim choices by the male world.
24 Photos Gallery of: 24 Metal Bed Headboards You'll Love
Instead for women, the mirror is becoming the best alternative. The elegance, sophistication and delicacy of a mirror headboard are characteristic of women. Who introduce it into their bedroom as the jewel of the place. A upholstery in leather or synthetic leather. With the whole headboard structure in garnet or earthy tones give a majestic and elegant touch of a classic bedroom .
The solid wood and metal bed headboards, together with the previous ones, fit in a rustic style. The finishes allowed by this material radiate an elegance. And innate solemnity of the solid wood and also own of bedrooms of dream. Its lighter version allows a multitude of designs. And lacquers for those who prefer a more relaxed style like shabby chic. For the more Zen , bamboo is the right one. While the younger ones bet on non-uniform designs made from recycled materials.


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Seeing is believing.
There is a lot of publicly-available data on drug pricing, but it is complex and stuck in ugly tables. 46brooklyn's interactive charts and graphs liberate this data so you can start answering questions you never knew you had.
Drug Pricing (NADAC) Dashboard
The concept for this viz (a.k.a. visualization) came from simply wanting historical trend charts to assess the change in drug costs over time. Helpful... but we needed to take this a step further to be able to easily compare the price of brand name drugs with their generic equivalents. That data lives in the FDA's databases, so we married that up with NADAC in Tableau and voilà - an interactive drug price trending tool. Hover over the line and you can see all of the manufacturers and National Drug Codes (NDCs) each week as well.
Medicaid Drug pricing Heat Map
Once a quarter, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) publishes detailed Medicaid spending data down to the National Drug Code (NDC) level through what's known as the State Utilization Database. On its own, it's somewhat challenging to use due to poor drug naming conventions and the lack of any reference pricing. However, when merged with CMS's National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (NADAC) database, it comes to life! With this viz, you can see the average invoice prices pharmacies pay for every medication, and then compare it to what the state is being charged. Have fun exploring the madness that is Medicaid drug pricing.
Medicaid Utilization Dashboard
Let's move away from price for a minute and find out what Medicaid is spending its prescription dollars on and where. That's the purpose of the 46brooklyn Medicaid Utilization Dashboard. We simply wanted to provide the means to poke around within Medicaid's utilization data to provide you with some helpful context on each state program. So, grab a cup of coffee (or two) and dig in!
NADAC Change Packed Bubble Chart
Once a month (normally the 3rd or 4th week) CMS publishes the results of their monthly retail pharmacy survey. The results of this survey reflect thousands of drug price changes. We wanted to be able to put some context around all of these changes, so we joined the survey results with Medicaid's latest dispensing data (Q1 2018) to better understand the aggregate impact of all of the latest generic pricing changes using a real life drug mix.
Medicaid Markup Universe
In traditional PBM "spread" contracts with payers, the payer pays one price for a generic claim, and the provider is paid some other amount for that claim. While calculating the precise spread in Medicaid is not possible given that PBM payments to pharmacies are not public, we can get a feel for how disconnected the price paid is from the ingredient cost by comparing CMS state utilization data to CMS NADAC data. From this comparison, we have derived "markup" and have created a celestial-feeling visualization for you to see where all of it is and is not.
Medicaid Markup Galaxies
Looking to drill deeper into a state's markup universe? Then this viz is for you. Medicaid Markup Galaxies separates each universe into three different groups (or celestially-speaking, "galaxies"). We call them the High-Cost, In-Range, and Low-Cost galaxies. The goal in doing so is to better quantify the nature of generic pricing distortions within state Medicaid programs.
Top 20 over $20
Here's yet another way to help find "markup" (payer cost less NADAC cost) within managed care Medicaid. Our Top 20 over $20 list provides you with an interactive way to view the 20 top drugs (ranked by absolute markup dollars) that sported a markup per prescription of $20 or more for any state that has managed care, and time period (going back to 2014).
Drugmaker Market Share Dashboard
If we want to understand drug pricing, we need to understand supply and demand. And any study of supply and demand inevitably is going to lead to the hunt for market share data. Market share is an easy and convenient place to start to try to make sense of all of the generic drug pricing nonsense. Market share analysis shows lots of competitors, each with with a relatively small slice of the pie? That's a signal of healthy competition among generic manufacturers, which should result in lower prices. Market share concentrated with one manufacturer? That's not great for competition, and could explain pricing oddities for the drug. Our Drugmaker Market Share Dashboard is designed to help answer these questions.
Brand Drug Price Change Box Score
Much like a box score in baseball tallies up each player's stats for a game, our Brand Drug Price Change Box Score tallies up all price changes by manufacturer and drug – for any period you want to see. The tool also allows you to place two different periods side by side to quickly absorb what is driving changes from one year to the next. Be careful though – the most significant limitation to this data is that it does not include manufacturer rebates. But the discussion on list price increases rages nonetheless – now at least you have better facts to contribute!
Medicare Part D Drug Pricing Ski Slope
Longing for winter, ski bums? Well, we have a big dump for you! In this viz, you can select a drug and view the price set for the drug by thousands of Part D plans. For good measure, we added a line to show you the true market-based cost of the drug, so you can see how frustratingly random pricing is across plans for generic drugs.
46brooklyn Drug Price Launchpad
Recent reports have demonstrated that brand-name medication prices are not increasing at the same rate as prior years. We've highlighted similar trends in our digging as well. But, brand-name drug cost pressures have less to do with year-over-year price increases and more to do with the launch prices of new brand name medications when they initially come to market. See for yourself in the new 46brooklyn Drug Price Launchpad.


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|Uric acid renal excretion and renal insufficiency in decompensated severe heart failure.
MedLine Citation:
|PMID: 15921781 Owner: NLM Status: MEDLINE
|OBJECTIVE: To evaluate uric acid renal excretion, hyperuricemia, renal dysfunction, and prognosis in patients with decompensated severe heart failure, as there are few data available.
METHODS: One hundred and twenty-two patients, hospitalized for heart failure decompensation, in NYHA class IV, were classified into 3 groups as follows. Pilot group [ejection fraction (EF)</=0.45, n=16], group 1 (EF</=0.45, n=90), and group 2 (EF>0.45 and valvular dysfunction, n=16). The patients in groups 1 and 2 underwent assessment of creatinine and uric acid clearance before and after pyrazinamide, to estimate uric acid tubular secretion. Uric acid clearance <6.8 mL/min and secretion <170 microg/min were considered reduced. In groups 1 and pilot (n=106), mortality was analyzed by Cox regression model, and the prognostic value of hyperuricemia was assessed by ROC curve.
RESULTS: In groups 1 and 2, respectively, serum uric acid was 511.7 and 422.5 micromol/L, and creatinine clearance was 46.7 and 61.4 mL/min. Uric acid clearance (3.2 vs. 3.9 mL/min) and tubular secretion (116 vs. 128 microg/min) were not different, but lower than normal values. In groups 1 and pilot, the 12-month mortality was 46.4% (CI 95%: 36.7%-56.0%). At end of follow-up, mortality was associated with impaired creatinine clearance (p<0.001), but not with hyperuricemia (p=0.236).
CONCLUSIONS: In patients with decompensated severe heart failure, the tubular secretion and the clearance of uric acid were reduced. Renal dysfunction was associated with mortality, but hyperuricemia was not.
|Marcelo E Ochiai; Antonio C P Barretto; Múcio T Oliveira; Robinson T Munhoz; Paulo C Morgado; José A F Ramires
Publication Detail:
|Type: Journal Article
Journal Detail:
|Title: European journal of heart failure Volume: 7 ISSN: 1388-9842 ISO Abbreviation: Eur. J. Heart Fail. Publication Date: 2005 Jun
Date Detail:
|Created Date: 2005-05-30 Completed Date: 2005-09-27 Revised Date: 2011-06-08
Medline Journal Info:
|Nlm Unique ID: 100887595 Medline TA: Eur J Heart Fail Country: Netherlands
Other Details:
|Languages: eng Pagination: 468-74 Citation Subset: IM
|Cotoxó Hospital, Prevention and Rehabilitation Service, Heart Institute (InCor), University of São Paulo Medical School, Av. Dr. Enéas de Carvalho Aguiar, 44-CEP 05403-900, São Paulo-SP, Brazil.
Export Citation:
|APA/MLA Format Download EndNote Download BibTex
|MeSH Terms
Heart Failure / epidemiology, metabolism*, mortality, physiopathology
Middle Aged
ROC Curve
Renal Insufficiency / epidemiology, physiopathology*
Uric Acid / blood, metabolism*, urine
Reg. No./Substance:
|69-93-2/Uric Acid
From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine
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Property Description
21 Exchange Way
High Chelmer is regarded as Chelmsford's premier Shopping Centre with national multiple retailers including Next, Boots, New Look, Miss Selfridge, Top Shop, JD Sports, River Island, HMV, Superdry Clarks and Primark. The unit occupies a prime trading location on Exchange Way, with nearby retailers including Game, Camera World, Greggs, CeX and Bon Marche.
Adjoining the unit is a Restaurant Quarter which boasts Turtle Bay, Cote, Steak & Lobster Restaurant Corlenzo's and Banana Tree.
The property is on ground floor, comprising the following approximate dimensions and net internal floor areas:-
Internal Width 33ft 4ins (9.86m)
Shop Depth 58ft 10ins (17.92sqm)
Ground Floor 1,057 sq. ft. (98.20sq m)
The premises are available by way of a new lease for a term to be agreed, subject to five yearly upward only rent reviews.
Upon Application
The Valuation office website shows that the premises have a Rateable Value of £43,000.
Payable 2018/2019 £20,640
Interested parties are advised to make their own enquiries of Chelmsford Borough Council (01245 606606)
Each party is to be responsible for their own legal costs incurred in this transaction.
For further information contact
PAUL EVERETT email@example.com
EVERETT NEWLYN on 01245 465060
Messrs Everett Newlyn for themselves and for the vendors or lessors of this property whose agents they are give notice that:
- The particulars are set out as a general outline for guidance of intending purchasers or lessees; and do not constitute part of an offer or contract.
- Al descriptions, dimensions, references to condition and necessary permissions for use and occupation, and other details are given in good faith.
- The Vendor of Lessor does not make or give, and neither Messrs. Everett Newly nor any other person in their employment has the authority to make or give, any representation or warranty whatsoever in relation to the property.
- All statements contained in these particulars as to the property are made without responsibility on the part of Everett Newlyn or the Vendor/Lessor.
- All quoting terms may be subject to VAT at the prevailing rates from time to time.
- We have not tested the services and cannot give any warranty or undertaking as regards their efficiency or operation.


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Check out the companies making headlines after the bell:
Digirad stock shot up close to 18 percent in the extended session. The health-care imaging company announced it would sell its Medical Device Sales and Service contracts to for $8 million. Digirad and Philips, a Dutch technology company, have a pre-existing relationship. Digirad CEO Matt Molchan said the company considered holding on the contracts, but "determined that the best value for the business would be in the hands of Philips."
Union Pacific shares rose more than 2 percent on relatively light volume after the bell. The extended session gains came after the stock closed up more than 1.2 percent in the regular session.
Williams Companies shares slipped nearly 1 percent after hours following a slight decline during the regular session.
Walt Disney Co. shares were flat in the extended session. The Disneyland theme park in California suffered a power outage that affected dozens of attractions.


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The Rt Revd David Wilbourne has announced that he is stepping down as Assistant Bishop of Llandaff.
In a statement sent to all diocesan clergy, Bishop David said he wanted to "hand over the baton" to Dr Morgan's successor as Bishop of Llandaff to enable that person to "run free". He will finish on Easter Day, April 16th.
Bishop David was appointed as Assistant Bishop of Llandaff in 2009 to assist Dr Morgan, who was also Archbishop of Wales. He has also served as the Church's lead bishop on Education, Schools and Young People and represented the Church on the National Society Council.
In his statement, Bishop David paid tribute to Dr Morgan and the Diocese of Llandaff. He said, "It has been the greatest privilege to be Assistant Bishop of Llandaff these past eight years, a diocese which serves the beating heart of South Wales, teaming with life and hope. It has also been the greatest privilege to have worked with Dr Barry Morgan, the former Archbishop of Wales, and share in his very personable ministry, whose hallmark has been a remarkable reaching out to the lost and forsaken and those on the margins of society, making them feel truly welcome in the name of Christ.
"Though the weeks since Dr Morgan retired have been full and fulfilling, increasingly I realise it is time to hand over the baton to the newly appointed Bishop of Llandaff, so he or she can run free, enabling the Church which I have cherished these past years to flourish. I therefore intend to finish my time as Assistant Bishop on Easter Day 2017, just before the Sacred Synod approves our new bishop. I do so with the greatest gratitude for all the faithful parish priests and people here, whose marvellous ministry I am daily humbled by. I pray that you are given the bishop you so richly deserve, one who, in the words of Cardinal Basil Hume, simply comes to where people are and takes them to places they never dreamt of going.
"One of my favourite novels is Trollope's The Warden. Mr Harding finishes his time as Warden of Hiram's hospital with these words, which I would like to make my own: 'God bless you all! You have my heartfelt wishes for your welfare. I hope you may live contented, and die trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ, thankful to Almighty God for all the good things he has given you.'"
The Church's senior bishop, the Rt Revd John Davies, Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, who has current oversight of the Diocese of Llandaff, paid tribute to Bishop David and thanked him for his ministry in the Church in Wales.
He said, "Bishop David makes it clear in his own statement why he has made the decision to step down, and it is important that we respect that decision and the prayerful manner in which he has reached it.
"David's ministry has been characterised by his learning, his humour and his undoubted skills as a communicator, pastor and teacher. These gifts have combined to make him very much a 'people person' whose popularity in the parishes of the Diocese of Llandaff is very well known and widely appreciated. The pastoral ministry which David has exercised and the personal support which he has given at times of need have particularly endeared him to very many. For all of these reasons and more, he will be much missed by so many.
"Throughout all, David has been upheld and supported by Rachel and the family for whom the prospect of a transition from Yorkshire to Wales could not have been without its anxieties and its challenges. To all of them, on behalf of the Province and the Diocese, I express personal love and collective thanks as they prepare for a new chapter of life and ministry."
Born in Derbyshire and schooled in Yorkshire, Bishop David studied Natural Sciences and Theology at Jesus College and trained for ordination at Westcott House, Cambridge. He returned to Yorkshire as a priest, ministering first in urban Middlesbrough, then in a shadow-urban parish north of Pontefract. He then moved on to be the Archbishop of York's chaplain working firstly with John Habgood and then with his successor, David Hope. He was also Director of Ordinands. In September 1997 he moved from Bishopthorpe to be Vicar of Helmsley. He was collated as a non-residentiary canon of York Minster in 2008.


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Following the implementation by pension fund practitioners of the voluntary pension fund guidance, it is now possible for the first time to obtain meaningful analysis of Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) costs. There has been something of a rush to examine the figures published in September 2015, with some inconsistent (and misinformed) media headlines as a result.
So below are the four key facts you really need to know:
1. Total pension management costs within the LGPS are less than 0.5% of the value of fund assets (i.e. £11.2m per fund on average) as shown in Exhibit 1 below. Inevitably there is some spread around this average reflecting that:
Nonetheless the majority of local government pension funds are within 20% of the average and well below the cost of private sector pension funds. Independent pension websites suggest that anyone looking to set up their own individual pension pot should expect to pay annual fees in the region of 0.75% to 1.25% for an actively managed investment fund ie an average of 1%.
Exhibit 1: LGPS management costs as a % of Fund value in 2014/15
2. Over 83% of LGPS management costs relate directly to investment trading, custodianship services and portfolio management. Benefits administration and governance functions cost each individual pension scheme member on average less than £3 a month.
3. Almost 80% of funds choose to appoint external fund managers. LGPS rates of return improved to almost 12% in 2014/15, just beating the UK private sector pension fund average of 11%. Many individual funds did better, with almost 30% achieving returns of 13% or more and the top performer managing over 16%.
4. Some commentators have claimed that costs rose by up to 42% in 2014/15; however the audited accounts show that costs actually rose by 29%. Partly this was due to practitioners implementing the CIPFA guidance and reporting costs previously netted off elsewhere, but costs also rose because many pension funds paid out additional fees to investment managers who out-performed the market.
Inevitably there are variations in performance, both between funds and within individual funds over time. All funds should be aiming to bring themselves up to the standards of the best, and schemes with externally managed arrangements need to:


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Table of Contents
Social Development
Ministry of Education
Ministry of National Development
Ministry of Health
Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources
Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports
Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts
Security and External Relations
Ministry of Defence
Ministry of Home Affairs
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Economic Development
Ministry of Transport
Ministry of Trade and Industry
Ministry of Manpower
Government Administration
Ministry of Finance
Ministry of Law
Organs of State
Prime Minister's Office
Ministry of Education
Ministry of National Development
Ministry of Health
Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources
Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports
Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts
Ministry of National Development (MND)
MND's mission is:
To develop world-class infrastructure;
To create a vibrant and sustainable living environment; and
To build rooted and cohesive communities for Singapore.
A total budget of $2.57 billion has been allocated to MND in FY2011 to achieve this mission.
MND aims to achieve the following outcomes:
Affordable and Quality Public Housing
Rejuvenating and Remaking our Heartland
Best Built Environment for Our People
Making Singapore a more Liveable, Sustainable & Vibrant City
Singapore as a City in a Garden
A Resilient Supply of Safe Food
Freedom from Important Animal and Plant Diseases
Affordable and Quality Public Housing
Public housing has played a critical role in promoting rootedness and social cohesion among Singaporeans. It has given our people a tangible stake in the country and facilitated upward social mobility. It has also given Singaporean households an asset that they can monetise to meet retirement needs. MND will continue to provide affordable and quality public housing that meets the needs and aspirations of Singaporeans, and promote home ownership for the vast majority who can afford it. $500 million will be allocated to Housing Development Board as an operating grant for this purpose.
Rejuvenating and Remaking Our Heartland
$1,106 million will be spent to rejuvenate housing estates through various estate renewal programmes so that residents can enjoy improved living conditions.
To achieve this outcome, HDB will be undertaking the following major initiatives and programmes: -
Remaking Our Heartland (ROH)
Remaking Our Heartland (ROH) is an effort to transform our HDB estates comprehensively into more vibrant homes for Singaporeans. Punggol, Yishun and Dawson were the first heartland towns and estates selected. Residents from these three towns responded positively to the extensive ROH plans implemented. For the second batch of ROH, the Hougang, East Coast and Jurong Lake areas have been selected for a comprehensive makeover. The ROH plans for these three areas will share four common themes:
Rejuvenating homes, as well as Town and Neighbourhood Centres
Enhancing outdoor recreation choices
Improving connectivity to activity nodes
Promoting heartland identity and heritage
Home Improvement Programme (HIP)/Neighbourhood Renewal Programme (NRP)
The HIP offers useful improvements within the flat to residents. The HIP comprises two components – Essential improvements and Optional improvements.
Essential improvements include works that are necessary for public health, safety or technical reasons such as the replacement of deteriorating waste pipes, upgrading of the electrical load, ceiling leaks and spalling concrete
Optional improvements include toilet upgrades and new entrance door/grilles. Residents can choose which optional improvements to include in the upgrading.
For Singapore Citizen households, the Government will subsidise 100% of the cost of Essential Improvements and the bulk (87.5% to 95%) of the cost of the Optional Improvements depending on the resident's flat type.
The NRP focuses on precinct and block-level improvements for two or more contiguous precincts. The upgrading of a larger area enables better integration of upgraded facilities and ensures that improvements across neighbouring precincts complement one another. Residents are invited to provide feedback on the facilities to create a stronger sense of ownership and belonging, and ensure that the items provided better meet their needs. The NRP is fully funded by the Government.
In FY2011, 9,900 and 3,400 flats are expected to be completed under HIP and NRP respectively.
Lift Upgrading Programme (LUP) /IUP Plus /Main Upgrading Programme (MUP)
In support of Government's efforts to provide barrier-free access for an ageing population, the target is to provide lifts that stop on every floor for all eligible blocks by 2014. In FY2011, an estimated 39,000, 6,500 and 1,600 flats are expected to be completed under the LUP, IUP Plus and MUP respectively.
Selective En-bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS)
SERS is part of the Government's renewal plans for older HDB estates. The scheme optimises land-use in older estates with redevelopment potential, while presenting a unique opportunity for residents living in older HDB estates to upgrade to new flats on fresh 99-year leases, without losing the family and community ties built over the years. In FY2011, residents of about 3,300 flats will receive compensation for their properties acquired under SERS.Housing Estate Management
$114.6 million of grants will be provided to help Town Councils with their service and conservancy costs.
$59.4 million will be spent to improve public facilities in public and private housing estates. The improvement to public housing estates will allow residents in HDB precincts to enjoy the convenience of facilities such as walkways and children's playgrounds. Upgrading works for selected private housing estates will include park-related and road-related upgrading works, improvements to connectivity and accessibility to/within the estates, and enhancements to estate identity.
Best Built Environment for Our People
BCA aims to shape a safe, high-quality, sustainable and friendly built environment. This will be achieved by:
Ensuring high standards of building safety;
Promoting construction quality excellence;
Promoting environmental sustainability in buildings and their immediate surroundings;
Ensuring barrier free accessibility in the built environment and promoting universal design principles; and
Transforming the construction industry, building up sustained contracting capabilities and enhancing productivity.
A total of $48.6 million will be allocated in FY2011 to achieve this outcome
BCA will be undertaking the following major initiatives and programmes to achieve this outcome:
Ensuring High Standards of Building Safety
To enhance safety standards in design and construction of buildings, BCA administers the Building Control Act and Regulations and periodically reviews them to ensure that safety requirements remain relevant and effective. A systematic and comprehensive work plan has been put in place under the "3-year Periodic Rules Review" programme to review BCA's rules and regulations. In addition, BCA spearheaded an accreditation scheme for the certification of suppliers of ready-mixed concrete for use in structural applications. This accreditation scheme was implemented by the Singapore Accreditation Council (SAC) in 2010 and by 1 April 2011, BCA intends to make it a requirement for structural concrete to be supplied only by accredited ready-mix concrete suppliers. To prepare the industry for the impending migration to Eurocodes for structural design, BCA will be rolling out programmes to educate and train the industry on the design and requirements of the Eurocodes. BCA set up a national Geological Office in April 2010 that will serve as the authority on geological information of Singapore. The Geological Office will centralise, manage and provide geological information, advice and services to development agencies on their projects on geological matters.
Promoting Quality Excellence
To achieve construction quality excellence in buildings, BCA promotes wider adoption of its quality assessment systems i.e. CONQUAS and Quality Mark, in both public and private sector projects. The aim is to continually improve quality standards by attaining a higher industry average CONQUAS score. To achieve this objective, BCA encourages more developers to benchmark their projects using CONQUAS and participate in the Quality Mark Scheme for residential developments. BCA will build up industry capability through courses conducted at the BCA Academy and developing on–site customized training for site management and supervisory personnel. Developers, consultants and contractors who have delivered high quality projects will be accorded recognition through BCA's construction excellence awards, project rating and personnel certification schemes for quality excellence.
Promoting Sustainability of the Built Environment
BCA continues to promote the adoption of green building designs and practices through its green building rating system, the BCA Green Mark scheme. This scheme promotes energy efficiency, water savings, sustainable construction, better indoor environment quality and environmental protection for a more sustainable built environment. Continuing disbursement will take place in FY2011 under the Green Mark Incentive Scheme for New Buildings and Existing Buildings respectively to promote the development of new and existing green buildings. The MND Research Fund will also continue to support research and development in green building technologies and energy efficiency. To facilitate the greater adoption of recycled materials and encourage optimal use of building materials through efficient design, the building industry can continue to tap on the Sustainable Construction Capability Development Fund. In an effort to bring the energy performance of our buildings to the next higher level, the Green Mark Incentive Scheme (Prototype) was launched in FY2010 to encourage the conceptualization and implementation of super energy efficient building designs and technologies. BCA is also working towards mandatory submission of energy data by building owners and the imposition of minimum energy performance standards for existing buildings.
Promoting Barrier-Free Accessibility (BFA)
To facilitate a friendly built environment that caters to the elderly, families and disabled, BCA has implemented a BFA Masterplan to encourage buildings in both public and private sectors to be barrier-free, and to adopt Universal Design (UD) principles. An Accessibility Fund of $1.5 million has been allocated in FY2011 to co-fund voluntary BFA upgrading costs of existing private buildings, as well as to raise public awareness on accessibility, UD and relevant assistive technologies. A Friendly Buildings portal has also been set up and currently captures information on the level of accessibility in 2,200 buildings.
Transforming the Construction Industry through Capability Development and Productivity Improvement
As part of the Government's efforts to raise the productivity of Singapore, BCA has introduced a S$250-million Construction Productivity and Capability Fund (CPCF) in June 2010 to help the construction industry improve productivity and strengthen its capability. The CPCF covers three broad aspects, namely manpower development, technology adoption and capability development. The Fund, which was launched on 1 June 2010, would be made available to the industry over a period of 5 years. As at 7 January 2011, the Fund will be benefiting about 440 companies, two-thirds of which are small and medium enterprises.
Making Singapore a more Liveable, Sustainable and Vibrant City
URA, Singapore's national land use planning and conservation agency, aims to create a more liveable, sustainable and vibrant city. It aims to facilitate the realisation of its plans in partnership with the community. URA's planning, land use policies and development efforts are geared towards making Singapore an attractive destination for businesses and investments, as well as a great place to live and play in for the people.
To realise this vision, a total budget of $278 million has been allocated to URA to undertake key initiatives and programmes in FY2011 including:
Concept Plan 2011 Review
URA is conducting a review of the Concept Plan, which is a strategic land use and transportation plan that will guide the physical development of Singapore over the next 40 to 50 years. The Concept Plan Review will play a vital role in helping us to balance the various land use needs, to ensure that the changing needs of our population and economy are met, and that the development directions set out will make Singapore more sustainable. When drawn up, the long term plan will facilitate the provision of adequate housing and facilities of various forms for an ageing and more diverse population, enable us to continue to safeguard growth opportunities in Marina Bay and new growth areas to support Singapore's long term economic strategies, increase our people's mobility and use of public transportation, provide a diversity of cultural and leisure options for both locals and visitors, enhance our greenery provision and so on. Whilst enabling Singapore to accommodate more growth, the Concept Plan will also guide our development such that our country remains an endearing home.
In preparing the Concept Plan 2011, various forms of public consultation such as the Lifestyle Survey, online surveys, public forums and focus group discussions were carried out in 2010. These enabled the URA to engage a wide spectrum of the community, to find out more about the needs and aspirations of residents and foreigners living in Singapore. URA will provide more opportunities for the public to submit feedback on our long term plans in particular at the Draft Concept Plan 2011 Exhibition later this year. The Concept Plan 2011 will incorporate the public's views and ideas received via the consultation process. The Plan will be completed at the end of the year. The Concept Plan 2011 will guide the forthcoming Master Plan Review. URA will initiate the preparatory work for the Master Plan 2013.
Sustainable Development Initiatives
URA adopts a long-term and integrated approach to ensure that Singapore develops in a sustainable manner. We want to incorporate more innovative sustainable urban development strategies in our planning to create a quality living environment, and also deepen our planning expertise.
URA will work with consultants to undertake a holistic review of the master plans for Marina Bay and Jurong Lake District, to propose strategies to enhance the sustainability performance of these areas.
URA, together with HDB, will also work with other agencies to scope and implement a cluster of research studies on sustainable urban living, facilitate test-bedding of technologies, and identify suitable opportunities for further applied research.
Developing Key Growth Areas
To create new opportunities and support Singapore's economic growth, URA will continue to develop the City Centre and other key growth areas like the Jurong Lake District, Paya Lebar Central and Kallang Riverside through the formulation and implementation of detailed urban design plans and key infrastructure. URA will promote these areas and market Singapore as a distinctive global city at overseas trade and marketing events to generate interest and draw investments and talents to Singapore.
Developing Marina Bay
The development of Marina Bay as a seamless expansion of the existing CBD continues to be one of Singapore's key focus areas. Year 2010 saw the completion of key developments at Marina Bay, including the opening of Helix Bridge & Bayfront Bridge, Youth Olympic Park, Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade and Marina Bay City Gallery. URA marked this major milestone by lining up a series of events under the theme "Marina Bay Invitations 2010" throughout the year to draw Singaporeans and visitors to the area.
However, the work is not complete yet and we will continue to develop the area to support the vision to turn Marina Bay into a world class sustainable Business and Financial District. To ensure its continued growth, construction of the supporting infrastructure will continue with the Common Services Tunnels, Marina Coastal Expressway, Downtown Line RTS and a new pedestrian bridge parallel to the Esplanade Bridge. The International Cruise Terminal at Straits View and Gardens by the Bay are targeted to be completed by end 2011 and Jun 2012 respectively. This year will also mark the completion of the Landmark Land Swap with Malaysia where 4 prime sites in Marina Bay will be vested for development in the next couple of years.
With the completion of the public facilities such as the waterfront promenade and open spaces, URA will also focus on the place management of the area. The intention is to establish greater engagement with the stakeholders to encourage more private sector participation and greater ownership in the place making of Marina Bay.
URA has plans to carry out educational programmes, co-ordinate visits, promote and facilitate Marina Bay as the choice venue for international and local events. In addition URA will oversee the management, maintenance and security of the MND-allocated waterfront promenade and open spaces as well as leasing and licensing to facilitate the use of the public open spaces and waterfront promenade for events and activities.
Enhancing the heartland
Enhancing the quality of the living environment remains a key priority for URA. Much effort will continue to be placed on strengthening the identity and vibrancy of significant districts in various parts of Singapore. Key initiatives include firming up the detailed phasing of the Round Island Route, developing the detailed plans for environmental improvement plans at Labrador Nature and Coastal Walk, Kranji Marshes, Geylang Road and Muscat Street.
Fostering a Sense of Identity and Rootedness
Besides Marina Bay, URA also oversees the place management of historic districts and key locations such as the Singapore River and Kampong Glam, to enhance the distinctiveness and vibrancy of these areas in collaboration with various stakeholders. For Singapore River, URA will carry out consultancy studies and visitor perception surveys to establish the interest for the future works.
URA will also continue to identify and conserve significant buildings as well as familiar landmarks and markers of collective social memories, as part of the planning process and to enhance the character of selected places by implementing environmental improvement works, to contribute towards giving Singaporeans a sense of history and belonging.
Promoting Architecture and Urban Design Excellence
To raise Singapore's international profile and set ourselves apart from other cities, URA will continue to emphasise excellence in architecture and urban design. URA will introduce a variety of initiatives and outreach programmes for both the general public and industry professionals. These include exhibitions, talks, workshops, conferences/ and design competitions. URA also supports private organisations and individuals who wish to carry out outreach activities through the A•UDE Promotion Programme, which provides funding to encourage different and innovative approaches to promoting architecture and urban design excellence in Singapore.
In addition, URA will continue to co-organise the biennial Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize in recognition of outstanding individuals and organization who have contributed urban initiatives, policies and projects which epitomize foresight, good governance or innovation. International roadshows and overseas networking sessions are carried out to generate interest and garner nominations for Prize. Tie-ups with relevant strategic partners and supporting organisations, pitch interviews and feature articles to the media, magazines and trade journals are also planned to further broaden the outreach of the Prize. The first Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize was awarded in 2010 to Bilbao City Hall. The Award Ceremony and Prize lecture, held in conjunction with World Cities Summit 2010, were well attended by the international and local delegates.
Singapore as a City in a Garden
The National Parks Board (NParks) aims to transform Singapore into a "City in a Garden" and create the best living environment through excellent greenery and recreation in partnership with the community.
A total budget of $563 million has been allocated to NParks in FY2011 to achieve this.
NParks will be undertaking the following major initiatives and programmes to achieve this outcome:
Gardens By The Bay
The Gardens by the Bay, which consists of 3 landmark waterfront gardens in Marina Bay, will contribute significantly in making the heart of Singapore's new downtown district a fascinating destination to live, work and play in. When completed, the Gardens will be a green oasis in the heart of the city that all Singaporeans can enjoy with their families and loved ones. The Gardens is also expected to attract 2.7 million tourists annually.
Park Connectors
The Park Connector Network is an island-wide network of green corridors that link up major parks, nature sites and housing estates in Singapore. Besides bringing about green connectivity and ensuring a continuous green mantle, park connectors are popular venues for lifestyle and community activities.
Streetscape Greenery Master Plan (SGMP)
NParks is implementing the Streetscape Greenery Masterplan, a blueprint to accentuate, enhance and revitalize the Garden City, through intensification of streetscapes to create unique identities for clusters of roads at strategic locations.
Skyrise Greenery
Skyrise greenery helps to optimise landuse and yield environmental benefits such as reducing the urban heat island effect. NParks takes an active role in skyrise greenery implementation in Singapore, and leads the promotion of skyrise greenery at a national level.
Landscape Industry Development
There are on-going programmes to build capabilities and capacities of the landscape industry. These include building a strong core of skilled local workforce through training and certification, enhancing the professional image and career opportunities, and developing and implementing industry standards. NParks also aims to promote Singapore's botanical and horticultural expertise internationally.
Promoting Community Ownership
NParks works closely with the public, private and people sectors to inculcate community passion for and ownership in transforming Singapore into a global City in a Garden. Programmes include Community in Bloom, Plant-A-Tree, Garden City Fund, outreach activities and partnerships with volunteers and industry partners.
In total, $163 million will be spent on the landscape industry development and promoting community ownership, including Community in Bloom programme. In addition, $56 million will be spent on strengthening Singapore's greenery infrastructure, including the development of new parks and park connectors, redevelopment of existing parks, implementation of the Streetscape Greenery Masterplan and the promotion of skyrise greenery. A budget of $344 million has also been allocated for the development of the Gardens by the Bay project in FY2011.
A Resilient Supply of Safe Food
The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) ensures a stable supply of safe food for Singapore. A total budget of $52.9 million has been allocated to AVA in FY2011 to achieve this.
AVA will be undertaking the following major initiatives and programmes to achieve this outcome:
Open up and diversify the sources of supply of safe food:
Diversification of sources of supply is the key strategy for Singapore to be not overly reliant on a single source for any food item. AVA will continue to open up and diversify food sources, in collaboration with the industry, through food sourcing missions, transfer of technology to develop new sources of fish and vegetable production in the region, as well as facilitating private sector's investment in overseas food zones and contract farming. AVA will also build mechanisms, including networks with our industry, to closely monitor and analyse food security concerns in the face of climate change, increasing food demand and other factors that can impact global food production and supply.
Not only must there be adequate and stable supply of food for Singapore, AVA must also ensure that the food is safe to eat. Risk management is an approach to mitigate food safety and disease risks. Through continuous sound risk mitigation measures and strengthening of its integrated food safety inspection and laboratory testing programmes, AVA will ensure that food can be brought in from diverse sources without compromising food safety – balancing the need for food supply resilience and safety.
Develop local farming and raise agricultural productivity
AVA will work with local farmers to raise the productivity of our farms in a sustainable manner, through the adoption of good agricultural practices and new technology, R&D into agricultural innovation, as well as skills upgrading.
AVA will enhance the administration and use of the Food Fund to support R&D and upgrading projects in local farms and partner with local and overseas institutions to develop new farming technology. Focus areas will be on vegetable, fish and egg farming.
Establish responsive mechanism to supply shocks and food safety risks
Ensuring a safe food supply is not just the responsibility of the Government. To engage the community, AVA will:
Continue its public education programmes to promote food substitutes, such as AVA's effort to educate the public on frozen meat as a cheaper alternative to chilled meat, as well as liquid and powdered eggs as alternative to shell eggs.
Continue to raise public awareness of food safety as a shared responsibility through its food safety public education programme.
As for the industry, AVA will work with them on their business continuity management, such as oiling of trade links with alternate food sources to help mitigate sudden food supply shocks and facilitate rapid recovery.
Freedom from Important Animal and Plant Diseases
AVA also safeguards the health of animals and plants in Singapore and facilitates trade in agricultural products for Singapore. $19 million will be set aside to keep Singapore free from important animal and plant diseases of public health and economic importance.
AVA will be undertaking the following initiatives and programmes to achieve this outcome:
Reviews and updates to ensure risk-based policies, standards, processes and systems
AVA will enhance import control and inspection of imports, as well as upgrade disease surveillance to detect and deal with disease outbreaks. Areas of focus will include strengthening the aquatic animal health programme, animal feed regulations, and import requirements and pest treatment for plants.
Capabilities to prevent and control disease outbreaks;
AVA will continue to have in place a multi-layered defence strategy against bird flu. This includes maintaining vigilance and preparedness against disease introduction, upgrading diagnostic capabilities for prompt disease detection, as well as collaborating with neighbouring countries in controlling the disease.
AVA will also update and develop crisis management plans for other diseases and invest in diagnostic capabilities and R&D to improve the detection and control of diseases.
To find out more about Ministry of National Development and our initiatives, please visit our website.


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The warnings came from every angle: go out and enjoy the sun while it lasts, when it starts to get dark you will start to get sad. It seemed ominous enough. The Swedes really seem to love the sun, I come from the tropics, I love it when I get out of the sun (especially in the blazing, humid afternoon heat of Singapore).
Living at the extreme top of the Northern Hemisphere, with the frigid cold a feature of the region, people come to love the sun and draw it in for as long as it shines.
I took them at their word, time to enjoy the sun. The question was, where did the locals go?
Internet sleuthing suggested the Hornstull Marknard, especially since it only come out on Sundays. This open air market takes place every Sunday in April to October, from the return of Spring to the cold turn of Autumn, in the western end of Sodermalm.
It's a popular haunt with locals when its open and if its good enough for them, it sure is good enough for me. I mean, who doesn't love a good bargain while taking in the amazing view?
Temporary open air stalls set up all along the waterfront, promise to have a selection of interesting items from fashionable second-hand clothes to vintage antiques,
from ecologically farmed products to high quality food-truck grub.
I could see why the sun was treated with great affection. The sun was gentle, its rays fell on your back like the gentle kiss of a lover and not the cruel scorch of a fiend. Even at midday, the bright sun was a welcome friend to the chilly wind.
I could also see why the market was popular. It was not just the variety of products on sale, and the chance of coming across a personal gem. It was the wonderful aroma of food. At one end the fragrance of sweet caramelised onions and savoury chargrilled beef mated as they pass through my nostrils, at another was the smell of the awakening spices from a chicken tikka and somewhere in between the rich, saliva-inducing fragrance of grilled haloumi cheese.
I had to have something… So I did the Singaporean thing… I joined the longest queue. It worked back home (here and here), I reckon it should work here too.
I had a burger (why am I not surprised).
A wonderful patty with sweet carmalised onions, tomatoes was topped with the pleasant surprise of fried shallots added to complexity of flavours and textures.
A great burger with a great view, I could get used to this…
Well, if the burger was cheaper (things in Stockholm are generally expensive, the city does appear close to the top of the Big Mac Index 😉 )…
Till then, I'll settle for the sun without the bun.


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The third time is le charme for Saint Laurent, which just opened its troisième location in Las Vegas at the Wynn. The fashion boutique is only a few stones throws from its sister stores at The Shops at Crystals and the Forum Shops at Caesars, which opened in September. Sleek statuarietto and black silk marble line the walls and floors, with nickel-plated brass and quilted leather furniture reflecting the brand's modern, minimalist aesthetic and timeless sophistication. Men's and women's collections, including ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes and accessories are carried at this location.
3131 Las Vegas Blvd. South, ysl.com


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Events in Zadar
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23 November
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Editor's Picks & Featured Venues
Ethnological Characteristics of Northern Dalmatia
Narodni trgJan 1 - Dec 31 2019
See the exquisiteness of one of the world's most beautiful places, northern Dalmatia, at this permanent exhibition. The traditional culture of the region and …
Permanent exhibition - Six Salon Stories (The historical ambience of the Zadar National Museum)
Poljana Šime BudinićaJan 1 - Dec 31 2019
With time comes change, with change comes a new time! See the story of Zadar broken into six different historical periods. The exhibited artefacts are traces …
A selection of works from the Art Gallery collections
Medulićeva 2Jan 1 - Dec 31 2019
A remarkable presentation of 210 works by renowned Croatian and Zadar artists displaying directions and tendencies in Croatian art from the 19th century to the …
Adriatic Molluscs
Medulićeva 2Jan 1 - Dec 31 2019
Porcelain Journey through the Silk Road - Chinese Porcelain Culture Exhibition
Poljana Zemaljskog odbora 1Open 09:00 - 21:00.
As one of the partners in commemorating the Croatian-Chinese Year of Culture and Tourism, the Museum of Ancient Glass in Zadar is honored to host the …


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Money on my mind (New Mexico edition)/
People ask me how I afford to travel as much as I do.
Seriously, I've had people from high school (who I legit don't talk to regularly) like text me to ask me how I travel so often.
If I really thought about it I'd say about 30% of paycheck goes to the next trip. I
If someone was to ask, I'd just give a shoutout to my roommate, who I share a studio with (um hi rent cut in half) and like, good planning.
But on the real though, I have thoughts on how I afford to travel at least once a month.
I don't drink, do big dinners, or shop THAT often. Trader Joes helps, having friends at SoulCycle and other fitness studios helps too. I get mad flights with points, and because I work partially in London, I add international trips on before and after because my flight cost is already covered. Little things I guess?
Really though, it's about the mindfulness. Mindfully spending on things I love, and then mindfully letting that other shit go.
What else is money for? But living.
Something in New Mexico last week, though, really confirmed my view on money.
In Santa Fe my friend Julie and I went to the Canyon Road Galleries. It's a quarter mile stretch of beautiful adobe style burnt orange places with all sort of aesthetics and styles. It's the second most populous art place in the United States. It's so rad.
Little background on Jules. Since I've known her she's always been super into art. We all have friends that have 'things' and this is hers. It's different, and I love learning about her passion because it helps me to expand my knowledge and appreciation of the arts.
She's always had a dream, her vision, to own beautiful pieces of art, then start a collection and have them in her home.
So, on Sunday in Santa Fe on Canyon Road, we were being little betches walking around in our little outfits (hehe) and strolled in to the first gallery we saw. The gallery had stark white walls with beautiful canvases of color, a little dog running around the place shivering like little dogs always freaking do.
There, we found a piece nestled on the back wall that Julie fell in love with. I was so down too,. It's so fucking badass. It's modern, but bright, just really groovy.
So she bought it. No questions, or doubts, just did it.
Not sure if anyone knows but like, pieces of real life art in galleries are fucking expensive. Theres a reason not everyone buys art as a hobby.
But this was it for her. It was all part of her vision, her goals, her life that she wanted to create. It was, foregoing little expenses she had upcoming to ultimately buy this thing that made her excited about putting steps forward in her life to become the vision that she has for herself.
For me this was the confirmation to thoughtfully think about where I want to spend my money. Being intentional, and then you don't feel guilty about spending it (if you can) on things that are truly important to you, and forgetting about the rest.
It's the way to thoughtfully create your life, by being intentional and never regretting doing (or buying) what you love.
That's why when I buy flights, or spend money on a trip, it's just like, how it has to be for me. It's part of the life I want to create. One where I am constantly on the go, constantly absorbing experiences. The pisces in me, I need that change and stimulation man.
I was so grateful for this trip, and for all the learning I did. I guess too, I was grateful I could afford to do it.
I guess when we look back at our lives we'll look back at how we 'spent' it. Either money or time. Both are made to be done with intention behind it.
// side note, writing a Santa Fe Guide soon //


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5 days of outdoor fun!
Whether you're an avid outdoorsman or are just looking for a way to escape winter for the day, this is YOUR show! The annual 5-day event turns America's Center & Edward Jones Dome into a one-stop marketplace for outdoor fun— the best place to see and buy everything you need for your outdoor adventures! See nearly one thousand boats—from fishing to cruising to family fun there are boats for every activity, lifestyle and budget. Browse specialty booths showcasing the latest in boating, fishing and hunting gear. Visit outfitters and resorts to plan your next trip or book a vacation, too. There's really no better place to shop, compare and save!
Special attractions make a day at the show fun for the whole family! Get tips from the pros at the Boating and Outdoor Classroom, presented by Allstate. New this year is Fred's Shed DIY Center, where you can learn from a real marine mechanic and other experts on how to best care for your boat. Also new this year is the DEMA Dive Tank. Bring your bathing suit and DEMA Scuba experts will supply the rest.
Compete in turkey calling or owl hooting contests. See native fish in action at the Texas Bass Tank. And youngens will want to visit Kids' Cove where they can enjoy the free Becky Thatcher Trout Pond and Captain Tim and Gypsy Rose III Landship.


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Impressed by the solemn, haunting beauty of the Bokor ruins while watching Matt Dillon's "City of Ghosts" in 2002, I decided to return to Cambodia to photograph the French Colonial ruins at the Bokor Hill Station, and the abandoned mansions along the coast road near the town of Kep.
I used the charming Bokor Lodge, formerly the Foreign Correspondents Club, in Kampot, as home base for my explorations, and hired local guides to help me find and visit these destinations. […]
The ride up the mountain to Bokor was about 3 hours, on some of the worst roads with huge potholes and erosion I've ever seen. We left at dawn, so that I would have as many hours of daylight as possible to photograph, although we also had to allow enough time to get back down safely before complete darkness.
Arriving at last at the main Hotel building, the former grandeur and present dark atmosphere were a heady mix to behold. Having seen vintage images of the resort during its heyday with expensive automobiles and well-dressed French colonialists outside the front door, it's quite a different feeling to see the decay, entropy and misuse that are the current condition of this formerly majestic complex.
There have been rumors for several years that the Bokor Hill resort (and hopefully the access road) may be rebuilt and re-opened as a modern-day luxury destination, reliving its former glory.
If this is done in a way that can benefit the local population and the Cambodian people in general, then perhaps the evolution of this unique location can become something positive in the lives of the locals, rather than remaining a silent witness to more painful times in the history of the land.
Eric Alan Pritchard
November, 2010
Eric Alan Pritchard, a fine art photographer for over 20 years, began with traditional landscape genres and travel documentary in his early career. Eric has gone on to develop a unique approach to nudes and organic objects, evolving his style into one of delicate shapes and spare, luminous abstractions. By contrast, Eric's richly detailed photographs from Angkor Wat in Cambodia reveal with a dark glow the tangled layers and textures that are the embodiment of mystery in that sacred location. Also rich in darkness and detail are Eric's images of the French colonial ruins of the Bokor Hill Station and coastal mansions of Kep in Cambodia. After many years of shooting exclusively black and white, Eric began to work in color again on the waters of southern Thailand in 2004, and more recently he has been exploring a form of reductive minimalism in his photographs of the horizon, made at his beachfront home overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Finally, spanning a variety of years and styles is Eric's commitment to documenting large trees throughout California and around the world, as these giant living things embody both the beauty of nature and the fragile balance between man and Earth.


text: Found this "Bits and Pieces" catalog amongst the junk mail the other day. Pretty fun for me to see one of my pieces featured on the cover. I guess they like me! That's always a good thing in this business. Also found a "featured artist" page in the center. Looks like I'm that guy who does puzzle art now. Fine by me. I like being able to feed my family and buy new underwear.


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In mid-December we wrote one of our year end, "get ready for next year" blog posts called, "It's 2012 - Make It Happen!" Now that we are moving in to the second half of the year we are wondering - how's that working for you?
Traditionally at the end of the year the majority of our clients and friends are working on "what's next." The effort ranges from New Year's resolutions, to budgets, to creating an entirely new vision and, (hopefully), strategy to go with it. Often somewhere in the first quarter, (if not actually in January), these "best of intentions" fall to the wayside. As the economy continues to be challenging and the levels of stress seem to be in an unprecedented range we thought now would be a good time to "look up and out" and revisit the idea of a bold vision in 2012.
Most of the time, when we talk about "bold vision" we find these efforts produce plans based on past experience, rather than launching a truly bold vision. So to clarify what we mean, we say vision has more to do with a dream for the future than what's happened in the past. This is a really critical point. When teams go to create a vision they really think they are working on the future, but this "predictions based on the past" almost always dominates the conversation and people aren't even aware of it. (Next time you are in a high level strategy session or meeting about vision, see if you can detect what we are pointing to here. If you need more clarity, we talk a lot about the differences in our book, Accelerate, in the section on Leadership Choice Point.)
In the book we also emphasize that most "leadership" activity is based on looking backwards, reviewing results to-date, and building a plan forwards from that past. There is nothing wrong with this. As human beings our minds and memories are constructed to have a "database" that builds on past experience. If we didn't have a "cumulative learning ability" we would be helpless. Every moment would be new. We wouldn't be able to find home at night, wouldn't recognize it when we got there, and strangers would occupy it if we couldn't draw effectively from our past experience. That's the good news part.
The bad news part is that past-based predictions also keep us enslaved to what's stored in our mental database, (or what we fondly call "the mental File Cabinet.") It keeps our attention on our limitations. For example, we know the story of a head-hunter who was working on a placement. He had spoken with a potential candidate and told him, "I can't present you for this CEO job, for which you are an excellent candidate, because you don't have a chemistry degree." The last CEO of the particular company had failed. He had a chemistry degree and the Board of Directors insisted on the new candidates having one also. So it's an interesting issue. In this example, if a chemistry degree could predict and determine success, why did the previous guy fail? Why does it make it a given that this other outstanding candidate would fail because he doesn't have one? Somewhere in the past, this notion became a "predictor of success" and even in the face of evidence to the contrary, it's still being pursued. (This is why we used the strong language "enslaved" in the first sentence of this paragraph.)
It gets worse when we are in this predictive state and also creating and executing on a vision. Check your own thoughts here and see how often you can be truly creative and go for something that is not a projection of the current path of your life, your resume, your finances, your job…you see where this is going. Borrowing from the article I will cite below, we could call this "remembering the future."
The Wall Street Journal Weekend Edition on 12-12-10 included an article, "Why The Mind Sees the Future in the Past Tense," by Matt Ridley in which the author points out that recent neuroscience studies show the same parts of the mind hold our episodic memories and our imagined futures. Given the evidence here, it's no wonder the "predictable" dominates our thinking.
What excited me about the article were the studies that show that, "the more unexpected something is, the more conscious we are of it." Your brain has to work harder when what shows up doesn't match prediction, or expectation. What this means to me is that the most highly leveraged way to get yourself and your team in to powerful action is to start throwing new stuff in front of your collective brains. Create a BOLD vision that you can't prove based on the past. You will be stimulated, more conscious, and therefore more present. You will be unleashing creativity instead of invoking your past experience, circumstances, knowledge, (or lack of it), and limitations.
I am not being "Pollyanna" or encouraging "woo-woo" here. Once your new bold vision, or as we call it, "Yonder Star" is created, it's time to be responsible for the past. It's time to get very clear about your situation – "the way that it is and the way that it isn't." If you start looking from the perspective of your Yonder Star as if it is already fulfilled, your mind will start discovering what it did to get there. It will get very excited about remembering.
In his blog post, "Strategy Slam'", a long-time colleague, Russ Phillips, recommends going to Denny's by yourself with a pen and pad to do your creative thinking. I am much more creative in dialogue with other committed players. Many people wait for adversity to set in, and it will, sooner or later, to force themselves and their associates to get creative…"sort of a create or die strategy." There are lots of ways to "get yourself there." What gets you in action for a bold inquiry? What's your most creative environment? What calls forth your commitment? What stops you? These may be the most powerful questions you can ask yourself as you revisit, resurrect, or invent for the first time your bold vision for 2012!