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I sent an email to B&N regarding the unfortunate lesson I hinted at in my previous post. I received a response today. I thought it only fair to share it with you.
Dear Customer,
Thank you for writing to us.
For many items on our website, you can check for availability at a store location by entering your zip code in the space located under "Pick Me Up" on the product page. Then, click on Find In Store.
We display the following on each screen:
Inventory changes frequently, so we cannot guarantee the availability
in our stores.
Store and online prices may vary.
To confirm availability and pricing, please call the store directly.
If the item is available in your local store,complete the online form and you will receive a response from the store in one hour, during store hours. When the store responds with availability and pricing, you have the opportunity to cancel your request or reserve your title for pickup. The item will be held for you for three days.
If the product you are looking for does not have a search or pickup option, we invite you to contact any of your local Barnes & Noble retail stores directly. For a full listing of retail locations, including store hours and phone numbers, please visit our website and click on "Stores & Events" and enter your zip code into the store locator.
If your local store does not carry the title you are seeking, we recommend ordering directly from our website. You'll receive free standard shipping direct to your home for qualifying items totaling $25.00 or more, which may be the most convenient option for you. For more information, click on Fast & Free Delivery at www.bn.com.
Customer Service Representative
Barnes & Noble
So I went back to look for this information. I finally found the "Important" information at the bottom of the list of stores in my area that carried the book. Here's what it looks like:
- Inventory changes frequently, so we cannot guarantee the availability in our stores.
- Store and online prices may vary.
- To confirm availability and pricing, please call the store directly.
May I repeat that this information was at the bottom of the list of local stores that carry the book? Who looks beyond the closest store listing to search for fine print? Which is exactly why it's put in that spot. But never mind that. What about when the store responded to my request "with availability and pricing"? (see email at beginning of post, 2nd paragraph after "IMPORTANT") I went back and found the email I received from the store.
Dear [Foo4luv],
Good news. Your search is over!
The distance between you and Complete Sherlock Holmes, Volume I (Barnes & Noble Signature Editions) is only as far as the [nearest Barnes & Noble*] Store. Our booksellers have reserved 1 copy, and they are holding it until 02/01/2015. (After that, we have to give other customers their turn.) If you have any questions, please give the store a call at xxx-xxx-xxxx.
Thanks for trying our Reserve In Store program. Our mission in life is to get you the item you want as quickly as possible.[**] We'll see you soon.
The Booksellers at Barnes & Noble
It said nothing about the price — just that my book was waiting for me. Lucky me! So go back to that IMPORTANT information and remember that it's your responsibility to call the store directly and confirm what price you will actually be paying.
So what do we learn from this? Merchants are sneaky. Very, very sneaky. They assume that once they get you in the store, you'll just pay whatever price they want. You came all this way. Surely you can't walk away and tell them where they can re-shelve their lovely book. Oh, but you can, Dear Reader. You can. You hold the money. You are the one with the power in this situation. Seize that power with both hands, and walk away. Telling them where to re-shelve the merchandise is optional, but it could be perceived as an over-emotional response. Me? I settled for informing them that I would be sharing my experience with you.
And now, to cleanse the mental palate and soothe away harsh feelings, here's a cute bunny:
*I thought it best not to post specifics regarding the store branch. I'm not comfortable giving away that much information about my location.
**The faster a purchase is completed, the easier it is to sneak a higher price past the customer, you know.


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Did you know that Ottawa is home to the largest naturally frozen skating rink in the world, as designated by Guinness World Records? Each year, from roughly January to late February or early March, the scenic Rideau Canal – Ontario's only UNESCO World Heritage Site – freezes and welcomes nearly one million visitors for winter fun. Best of all, the Skateway conveniently winds through downtown Ottawa and vibrant neighbourhoods. This epic urban skating rink is a bucket list must!
A magical experience
People come from around the world to experience the Rideau Canal Skateway's 7.8 kilometres (4.8 miles), which stretch from Ottawa's downtown core near the National Arts Centre to spacious Dows Lake. The Skateway's total skating surface is 165,621 square metres, which is bigger than 105 National Hockey League rinks or more than 90 Olympic-sized hockey rinks! On cold nights, The National Capital Commission (NCC) – the organization responsible for the Skateway – drills holes in the Canal ice and pumps water onto the surface. They also use a special Zamboni that smooths the ice surface.
The Skateway hosts a daily average of 20,000 visitors during the winter months, including many Ottawans who live near the Canal and use it to skate to school or to work. What a fun commute! The Skateway also hosts special programming during the Winterlude festival which takes place during the first three weekends of February each year.
Free and accessible
When the Skateway is open (weather permitting), it's free and accessible 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, with lamps lighting the Skateway from above at nighttime. There's nothing more romantic on a wintry evening than gliding hand in hand with a loved one on this magical skating rink!
Everyone can access the Skateway thanks to universally accessible facilities like access ramps, heated change rooms and washrooms. If you can't skate or prefer not to, you can walk or shuffle your way along the edges of the Skateway (away from skaters), or up above it on the pathways that line the Rideau Canal.
Skate and sleigh rentals
If you don't have your own skates, you can rent a pair from Capital Skates on the Skateway near the National Arts Centre or at Fifth Avenue. You can also rent sleighs which need to be pushed by skaters – a great option for children or non-skaters. For hours of operation, rates and details, visit the Capital Skates website. The Dows Lake Pavilion at the other end of the Rideau Canal also rents equipment.
Food and facilities
All along the Skateway, you'll find various stands offering poutine, hot chocolate and other treats to keep you cozy and warm. There are also heated change huts, where you can put your skates on, take a warm break or even use the washroom. And while you're on the famous Skateway, make sure to get a BeaverTails pastry! This deep fried, cinnamon and sugar, beaver tail-shaped pastry was invented in Ottawa in 1978. There's nothing more Canadian than enjoying one on skates on the Skateway in the winter!
Before you go
Since the Rideau Canal Skateway is an outdoor skating rink, it's dependent on weather conditions. Make sure to verify its status and the ice conditions before you go. If Mother Nature doesn't cooperate and the Skateway is not open, don't fret! Consult our list of Best ice skating experiences in Ottawa for amazing alternatives.

subset: commoncrawl


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Recent Posts
- » The 7 habits of highly defective dogs
- » Do you have a dog in your life? You could be healthier because of it!!
- » Missy and Schnoo's 'dogfinative' guide to Christmas
- » Autumn: the good, the bad and the very very muddy!
- » Scary clowns & trick or treat rounds: will your dog cope with the stresses of Halloween?
Recent Posts
- » The 7 habits of highly defective dogs
- » Do you have a dog in your life? You could be healthier because of it!!
- » Missy and Schnoo's 'dogfinative' guide to Christmas
- » Autumn: the good, the bad and the very very muddy!
- » Scary clowns & trick or treat rounds: will your dog cope with the stresses of Halloween?
The 7 habits of highly defective dogs
Posted byon
Recently our customers spilled the beans on their pooches worst habits, we loved them so much we had to share them, 'the 7 habits of highly defective dogs' are inspired by our canine customers and the smelly, naughty and damn right hilarious things they get up to.
Growing old disgracefully!
It turns out dogs are just like humans when it comes to living out their final years in disgrace, these two naughty oldies know just how to use old age to their advantage.
'[My dogs] are grumpier than Victor Meldrew at the age of 9. Grumpy old toy poodles!'
Kitchen antics…
Who knew the kitchen was a likely crime scene for our naughty pooches? And the bin is their favourite place to have a rummage; wouldn't you if you could be served yummy leftovers, exciting packaging and lots of rotten smells?
If you're lucky your mischievous mutt might even rub their nose in some stinking fish remains! If that's not enough then check out what one of our canine customers did to his owners kitchen floor…
Sleeping companions!
This habit gives a whole new meaning to the word 'in the dog house', more like 'in the dogs bed'!
Not only do these pooches love to snooze on their owner's bed they've taken it to the next level! Sounds a little cramped in there…
'[My dogs] insist on sleeping not only in my bed every night but also under the covers. Every morning I wake up clinging on to the edge with cold feet and no covers whilst they continue to snore in comfort. With myself and my husband and our three rescue dogs it's a bit of a tight squeeze but I wouldn't want it any other way except when one rolls over it's usually me who falls out!!'
And this pooch pulls out all of the stops to get comfy…
The fragrant scent of fox poo!
And that's not the worst habit- one of our customers' naughty hound just loves to wipe his bottom on their carpet- where do we get them from! Here's some more toilet related habits…
'They love the best scent in the world (not) rolling in fox poo'!!'
'She likes to roll in horse poo and then jump on my sofa!'
'She wipes her bum on my carpet'
Eating disgusting things… Inter-species faeces!
Some of our pooches have hit a new low…
'I love my dog even though she eats her [poo] then kisses me'
'I love my dog even though his bad habit is eating cat poo'
Muddy delight!
There's nothing our devilish dogs love more than getting dam right dirty… the dirtier the better for this white pooch.
Cheeky monkeys
And we couldn't choose which of these remaining habits was worse so we included them all!
'She shreds every tissue she finds and eats the Pom poms off my hats. Who couldn't love this face!'
'All 35kg of her jumps on my bladder first thing in the morning'
And don't forget - if you want to give your pesky pups something else to chew on apart from your floor, socks or tissues, you can go to our online store and check out our various treats!
(This blog is written in memory of Henry the spaniel who sadly passed away two weeks ago, however his bad habit lives on through their other rescue beagle!)
Do you have a dog in your life? You could be healthier because of it!!
January is the time for New Year's resolutions, eating well and moving more after our December overindulgence. It's claimed owning a dog has a wide range of benefits to your health including making you laugh more, lowering cholesterol and even detecting cancer. Whether you've stuck to that new diet or fallen off the wagon already, you can rest assured [...]
Missy and Schnoo's 'dogfinative' guide to Christmas
It's the countdown to Christmas and No Bones's resident Yorkshire Terriers Missy and Schnoo have taken time out of their busy tasting schedule to give us some doggie tips to help you and your pooch survive the festivities.And we're OFF! We love it when our humans are off work for Christmas! It means lots of [...]
Autumn: the good, the bad and the very very muddy!
It's true that Autumn can bring various challenges for dogs and owners alike. With the nights drawing in, fireworks displays stretching into the New Year and the endemic presence of Lungworm it seems there's not much to celebrate….Here at No Bones we don't like to dwell on the negatives, and in the words of Julie Andrews; here are a few [...]
Scary clowns & trick or treat rounds: will your dog cope with the stresses of Halloween?
Halloween is lurking just around the corner and lots of us will be getting together to celebrate with spooky costumes, trick or treat and Scarefest parties.But for one member of the family Halloween can be a very frightening and traumatic experience. We've come up with our handy survival kit to keep tails wagging this Halloween!1) – Fright & FlightDuring [...]
Newcastle Quayside Market Customers!
No Bones are at Newcastle Quayside Market every Sunday throughout the year, here are some of our happy customers!
The Queens 90th Birthday
No Bones were at Newcastle Quayside on June 15 joining in the celebration of the Queen's 90th Birthday we decorated our stall as part of a traders competition and we came first!
New Years Day 2016 Hamper Draw
For our New Years Day 2016 Hamper Draw, we asked you to send us pictures of your hairy bairns enjoying their Christmas holidays, the draw took place on New Years day.Here is the winning entry drawn at random, it comes from Dawn Keelan Dennison which means Rascal will be enjoying his treats next week, thank [...]
Paw Box Treats Prize Draw
To celebrate the launch of our new website we gave away a set of three paw boxes filled with delicious No Bones treats! we asked our Facebook friends and customers to like and share our post and send us a picture of their favourite hairy bairn or fur baby! the draw took place on Sunday 31st May [...]
Newfoundland Waggers
Sent in by Martin:This is Maisey and Olive with your white chocolate Easter eggs Olive is the puppy


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National Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Egg Freezing & Fertility Preservation Options Prior to Cancer Treatments
Did you know that breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and is the second leading cause of death among women? Or that one in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime? The statistics are startling, but where there is heartache, there is hope. When detected early (at the localized stage), the 5-year survival rate is 98%. In fact, there are over 2.8 million breast cancer survivors alive in the U.S. today! That is why the month of October - National Breast Cancer Awareness Month – is a great opportunity to not only educate ourselves about the disease but to also bring awareness to our friends and family and stress the vital importance of early detection.
No woman should fight breast cancer alone, and every woman should be aware of the risk factors, symptoms, and steps to early detection, as well as the available options when facing cancer treatments. One of the main concerns for women with breast cancer, especially for women in their reproductive years, is whether or not she will be able conceive after cancer treatments. Both chemotherapy and radiation can often damage sperm or eggs, leaving many patients infertile. Fortunately, egg freezing and fertility preservation are options that give women hope and the ability to conceive a child even after going through harsh cancer treatments.
At The Center for Reproductive Medicine in Orlando, Celebration and Lake Mary we understand the emotional stress that women go through when faced with cancer, especially when fertility may become an issue. That is why we have partnered with the Fertile Hope, Livestrong ™ program to provide support and assistance for patients that have opted to freeze eggs or embryos prior to cancer treatment. For more information about this great program, please click here. If you would like to schedule a consultation to hear more about our egg freezing or fertility preservation procedures, please contact us at (800)343-6331.
Resources: http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month


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7 of Haiti's peculiarities that you rediscover after having spent the summer elsewhere
Friends, we are back to Haiti and our normal routine! You must think that it was an easy transition but it was and it wasn't at the same time. As you might have noticed, my blog has had a long summer break just as we did. We spent two months travelling France and a bit of my home region in Germany as well. We did all the things that used to be normal and taken for granted by us: going for a walk, riding our bike, hopping on a train, enjoying the summer sales, cooking with different ingredients, and so on. Antonia discovered the joys of riding a scooter and loved the ropes course high in the trees close to my sister-in-law's house. Next year, she'd like to do it all again :-). Here are some impressions from our summer:
As you can see we ate a lot of good stuff and really had a good time. But now imagine, at the end of August you take your planes (for us it is three in total with 2 layovers) and you arrive in Port-au-Prince. You fly over all those slums, see several spots where smoke is rising, no skyscrapers, several bare hills surrounding the capital in the valley...
Then you get out of the plane and the strongly humid, hot air is welcoming you, making it difficult to breathe. You stumble into an air-conditioned hall where you have to get through immigration. All foreigners have to pay a welcome amount of 10 USD to enter the country. If you are "lucky", your plane has arrived with several other planes from the US and it takes you at least an hour to stand in line.
Now we are getting our suitcases and are politely waving off all the Haitians that would like to help us with our luggage. This time, we are really lucky as some of our friends surprised us by stopping by at the airport and driving us to our car.
Sitting in our friends' car we are looking the familiar and again unfamiliar environment. And these are the first things that we take in, once again:
1. The smell
Being in Port-au-Prince you will notice this very quickly: The Haitian capital has its own smell. The rising smoke you can see not only from the planes but also everywhere in the city is a result of Haitians burning their trash. There are no trash cans in the public area and no real waste collection. Well, I have seen trucks picking up trash at our hotel and the school but I am confident that this is not an affordable service for the Haitian citizen.
They burn everything everywhere, next to the street, in their backyard, in the gutter. Evidently, most Haitians doing this are certainly not aware of the toxic smoke they inhale and create for others.
Paired with the toxic exhaust gases coming out of these old, overloaded tap-taps, regularly you can see a general smoke all over which gives Port-au-Prince its burned toxic smell.
2. The poverty
The people's poverty is a very striking feature, even when you arrive for the second, third or fourth time. The airport's taxi drivers competing for you to get you in their cab. Small and skinny boys at the first (and only) traffic light asking you for money, hanging on to your car, desperately. All these young and old women sitting at the side of the street, inhaling the toxic dust all day just to sell an avocado or two. You can see it everywhere and it makes you uncomfortable at times.
3. The traffic
I have already written about this Haitian phenomenon before but nothing has changed since then. Coming back from Europe to Haiti was traffic-wise a shock again. Compared to the civilized traffic rules and driver behavior in Germany and France, it needs a change in your driver's mind to get back on the Haitian routes. There is no real "priority to the right" rule, or a "never make a u-turn in the middle of the road", or "wait your turn instead of tailgating". This happens here all the time! You better be prepared for a chaotic, traffic jam-filled driving life, especially in the crowded city of Port-au-Prince. And if you'd like to reach your goal at some point, you better start pushing and honking as well ;-).
4. The Haitian service orientation, or better the lack of
During our first days, we met up with some friends and colleagues and naturally went out to the restaurants. Another pill to swallow, literally. After a nice and service-oriented summer in Europe, we had almost totally forgotten about the lack of the service-oriented mind in Haiti. It is bitter to say but the service in Haitian restaurants, sights, and other touristy spots is non-existing. Especially, if you are coming from the States, where everyone asks you at least thrice if everything is okay, this is a big shock.
In the past, we have experienced several examples of this, even outside of the capital. When we stayed at a mountain hotel in Vallue which was pretty much over-priced and was lacking a certain care for the inventory and its guest, as well as the touristy sight called Saut d'Eau which is very expensive for tourists compared to locals (250 HTG instead of 50 HTG) and they are even not cleaning up their sacred pilgrimage site!
Some hotels and restaurants start to teach their personnel better service-oriented behavior and rules but it is only changing slowly. And even if they are more polite, the service usually is still pretty slow. Be prepared to wait and see for yourself!
5. The shopping experience
It works both ways actually. When we arrived in France and did our first grocery shopping, we filled our cart for 50 Euros. This was such a cool moment! My husband and I looked at each other and were like "What? Only 50 Euros? You must be kidding me?".
But coming back to Haiti and doing our first grocery shopping to fill our fridge was exactly the contrary. We were like "What 160 USD? Is this for real?" A totally despairing moment which shows you that the costs of living (especially if you want to continue your Western lifestyle and buy the products you are used to) are so much higher in Haiti.
Going to the local markets is not really an option either due to safety reasons (hold on to your purse) and also because you have to negotiate all the prices and still lose money in the end. Negotiating can be very tiring, especially because the Haitians don't really have a commercial sense. If you offer to buy more and pay less, they will look at you strangely and will even raise the price!
To avoid such surprises, most expats prefer to go to the local big supermarkets such as Caribbean Supermarket, Giant, Big Star, etc. But of course, most products are imported from the US and France and hence, have elevated prices.
6. The political instability
Since we arrived last year in August, the whole country has been talking about the elections but it is just not happening. They organized the first round at the end of last year and the second round at the beginning of this year but these were cancelled last minute as the electoral council resigned. Since then a provisional president, Jocelerme Privert, has been "elected" and at the beginning of March, in order to demonstrate his power, he decided to not change to Daylight Saving Time for the summer. That is, by they way, why we have a 7-hour time difference between Haiti and France/Germany right now (which will go back to 6 hours in October).
The new first round of elections is currently planned for October but since the last events, we are in doubt if it will actually happen. Although the election posters are hanging everywhere and the candidates and their supporters are mobilizing their voters, I believe the Haitian are doubting, too. We'll see...
7. The climate, the heat
Reading my first paragraphs of this post, you might guess that the acclimatization is not always that easy and that the heat can be pretty oppressing at the beginning. When we arrived a year ago, we had a really hard time to get used to the Haitian climate. We had no AC, were constantly surrounded by mosquitos and ants, had to manage the power generator when the Haitian electricity worked only a couple of hours a day and had to switch the water source regularly, too.
This year, it was a lot better. The first days felt pretty hot and we sweated a lot, too. But after a week or two, we were fine. Moreover, our present apartment with AC and mosquito screens helps a lot, too. Funnily enough, coming back from France, Antonia asked me if she could drink the water out of the tap but unfortunately, no, this again is not possible here...
All these 7 things came to my mind and eye after having arrived from 2 busy months in Europe. Smell, poverty, garbage, the Haitian mentality, the heat, the prices, and the political chaos - what would you do if you were a Haitian? I am asking myself this question a lot and I am really glad that I was not born here. But I am thankful to experience their country, their nature, and their people and look forward to every excursion we undertake, either a good hike, either a lazy afternoon at the beach, or a stop at one of Haiti's islands. You just have to be patient leaving the capital - traffic jams and smokes heading your way :-).
Have you ever been to Haiti? If so, what have you noticed is different from your usual environment? Or have you been in a similar situation in a different country? I look forward to your comments below :-).
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Venue: Bourbon Bar
Time: 8-11pm, Feb 9, 2018
Address: 4916 Rainier Ave S, Columbia City, Seattle, Wa, 98118, United States
Admission fee: by donation
The Bourban Bar @ Columbia City Theatre is a great place to hear us and to hang! Please join us at our new favorite venue!
We'll be making beauty <3!
Correo Aereo Trio with Amy Denio!
Musicians are paid by Donation.
Columbia City Theatre. 4916 Rainier Ave S


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Podcast 6 - Brooks Frederickson and Brad Mulholland
This week I sit down with a modern "classical" composer and a jazz musician. They also happen to be roommates. Brooks, Brad, and I talk about our converging musical worlds, why classical saxophone is stupid, and how to rise above the literal and figurative noise of Brooklyn.
Download here: MP3 File
Please, Subscribe in iTunes


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- EZChem Products
- >
- Specialty Products
- >
- Super Blue
Super Blue
per item
Concrete cleaner and renovator that quickly dissolves lime deposits, scale, rust, mortar, algae and mud
Gallon - $21
Concrete cleaner and renovator that quickly dissolves lime deposits, scale, rust, mortar, algae and mud
Gallon - $21
Crystal Moon Rising by Cindee Lundin.
Five 36"x10" carved concrete panels on a light weight Marana Stone base which is 85% recycled material. The moon is natural mica stone which reflects light and lets a golden mica base shine through. The birch faux bois and mountain landscape is hand carved concrete and stained with UV stable stains and other pigments. It is protected by a urethane top coat and highlighted with architectural waxes. This art piece can be displayed interior or exterior.
The Bees Needs
Bas Relief concrete on Marana Stone. Eight piece, 16"x16" hand carved and stained Bas Relief concrete tile. The flowers are a combination of concrete, abalone shells, over 2000 year old Roman glass and Santa Lucia stones (polished shells) which are said to be a good luck charm! Santa Lucia shells are found in the warm waters of the Mediterranean. The Marana Stone base is composed of 85% recycled material. This series of tile is a perfect way to bring color and art to an indoor or outdoor space! Sold.
The combined power when working together is greater than the total power of each working separately. This carved concrete triptych is embedded with selenite, blue kyanite, magnesite, and blue appetite which are all stones that are believed to create good energy and bridge communication. The design depicts our energy from above , below and within. It also shows the richness of our earth and the beauty of how all things are connected.
Each panel is 48" x 12" x 2" carved concrete on marana stone which is 85% recycled material. Saving our planet one art piece at a time. Perfect for an interior or exterior space.


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Or Login using BecomeGorgeous
Please fill the form below and follow the further instructions.
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Thank you!
The Twilight Trinity, Kristen Stewart, Taylor Lautner and Robert Pattinson had the honor of having their hand and foot prints immortalized forever at Grauman's Chinese Theatre on November 3. For the ceremony Kristen Stewart wore a glamorous crystal embellished cocktail dress by Marios Schwab which she wore with Brian Atwood Marcella pumps.


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1881 – Theatre Royal, Arthur St., Belfast
Architect: Lanyon, Lynn & Lanyon / C.J. Phipps
Originally constructed by Lanyon, Lynn & Lanyon in 1871 with carving by the Fitzpatrick Brothers. It was badly damaged by fire in June 1881, reopening in December 1881 after a refurbishment led by by noted theatre designer Charles Phipps. Demolished in 1915 and replaced with a cinema.


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Facts General Interests Women's Issue
50 Amazing Interesting Facts About Women Most People Don't Know5:18 AM
I'm not saying this stuff to pick on guys. I'm just saying it to express my bafflement. If a vocal group of ladies were saying on a consist...
I'm not saying this stuff to pick on guys. I'm just saying it to express
my bafflement. If a vocal group of ladies were saying on a consistent
basis, "Isn't it so weird that guys have hair all over their bodies?"
y'all would be pretty baffled by that sentiment too. Without further
- 20% of women in the U.S. earn at least $5,000 more than their spouse.
- 40% of births in the U.S. come from unmarried women.
- Every 90 seconds, one woman dies during pregnancy or childbirth.
- Women spend nearly one year of their lives deciding what to wear.
- All of the 20 richest women in the world --except for #17-- inherited their money from either their husband or their father.
- Women speak about 20,000 words a day. That's 13,000 more than the average man.
- Women in ancient Rome wore the sweat of Gladiators to improve their beauty and complexion.
- In Russia there are 9 million more Women than men.
- Women cry on average between 30 and 64 times a year while men cry between 6 and 17 times.
- Men lie 6 times a day, twice as often as women.
- The Youngest Girl to ever be divorced was 10 years old.
- Men were the first to wear high heels around the 1600s. Women began wearing them to look more masculine.
- Israel is the only country in the world to draft women into Military service.
- Instead of chest pains, heart attacks in women have nausea, indigestion, and shoulder aches.
- 4% of women in the U.S. are pregnant right now.
- Women's hearts beat faster than men's.
- The woman who underwent the world's first successful womb transplant became pregnant in 2013.
- Women spend over 4 years (in total) of their lives menstruating.
- Women have more taste buds than men.
- Women who snore during pregnancy are more likely to have smaller babies, according to a study
- Some women can have a genetic mutation which causes them to see millions of more colors.
- Taller women are more likely to get cancer, according to a study.
- An average woman in the UK will own 111 handbags in her lifetime.
- 30% of pregnant women crave nonfood items, an eating disorder called pica.
- 40,000 U.S. women might be allergic to male ejaculate.
- Women can get pregnant even 5 to 8 days after having sex.
- The most children born to one woman is 69.
- 68% of women say they would have an affair if they knew they could get away with it.
- Women think about their appearance 9 times a day, a UK survey found.
- Women were first allowed to participate in the Olympic Games in 1900.
- Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women.
- Women are better multi-taskers than men.
- 1 in every 6 women has been victims of sexual assault in the U.S.
- Only 2% of women describe themselves as beautiful.
- Women blink 19 times per minute, compared to 11 for men
- Women in Niger have an average of 7 children, the world's highest rate.
- Over 80% of women wear the wrong bra size.
- Women live longer than men partly because their immune systems age more slowly.
- The average woman in the UK has 150 different hairstyles in her lifetime.
- Women experience significantly more nightmares than men and have more emotional dreams, a research found.
- Despite popular belief, studies show men are not more flatulent than women.
- Jamaica, Colombia and St Lucia are the only countries where a woman is more likely to be a boss than a man.
- In the 1920's and early 1930's, women dominated the screenwriting profession in Hollywood's movies.
- 30% of businesses in the U.S. are owned by women.
- In China, women who remain unmarried in their late 20s and beyond are called "Sheng nu" which means "leftover women."
- Every 13 minutes, a woman dies from breast cancer in the U.S.
- Men sweat up to twice as much as women.
- The United Arab Emirates has the biggest gender imbalance in the world, with 219 men for every 100 women.
- Shorter women have shorter pregnancies, a study found.
- Miami is the only major U.S. city that was founded by a woman.
So what do you think about women? Wait this wasn't finished yet. I ave some bonus to give you. Here we go:
- In middle school, 74% of girls express interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, but when choosing a college major, just 0.4% of high school girls select computer science.
- Worldwide, women earn US$18 trillion but spend US$28 trillion.


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Acupuncture Meridians/
The new theory offers that meridians are "emergent lines of shape control," which effect the body through overlapping "contractile fields." (Wooh!) It is put forward in a book called Muscles and Meridians, the Manipulation of Shape, by Phillip Beach. While reading this rather long and dry text, something shocking occurred to my fragile mind. For someone steeped in Western Civilization, to even entertain the possibility that acupuncture is efficacious we have had to ignore an enormous affront to our sensibilities. The affront is that knowledge of the precise lines of the meridians could have been discovered and mapped and then passed down for 2000 years of recorded history as a form of applied medicine without anyone ever learning how the meridians were originally mapped! Oh, you might hear people say, they were just felt. But come on, that is so easy to test. You just find a barbarian who hasn't memorized the locations of the meridians and teach him to feel! Zhen Da! He will draw them for you! But if this ever happened, there are no records of it. One would think this would be a priority no? I am of course willing to believe that people have mapped and re-mapped the meridians many times over, and then then just kept their methods a secret. That's cool, but even if that were true, (and we don't have any evidence that it is) it's still a huge affront to my Western Civilization sensibilities.
Anyway, I sense that Phillip Beach felt the affront and was motivated to do something about it. Internet hero, Elisabeth Hsu has explained that the meridians were developed on the surface of the body and only later were connected to the internal organs. Beach leverages this clue well. It is also likely that many of the "points" were developed independently from the meridians. Some points are easy to explain simply in terms of trail and error as the best spots to manipulate and maneuver a person passively receiving a massage, or actively resisting a martial arts technique. Beach also leverages this point in his theory. Another clue is the widespread idea in Traditional Chinese Medicine that only a few of the meridians develop in utero, some appear at the moment of birth, and the rest develop slowly over the first 5 or so years of human activity. He uses this information in his theory as well, but if I wasn't already familiar with the idea I doubt I would have understood what he was talking about. Unfortunately the book needs another edit.
Never the less, its a great theory. He draws extensively on developmental embryology to show how different regions of the body are related and belong to the same contractile field. A contractile field is pretty easy to understand. If I poke you with something sharp, you will move away from the point in a very specific way by contracting certain parts of your body. If I poke you in a different place, you will contract differently only if I have poked you in a different contractile field. If I poked you on the same contractile field, but in a different spot than the first time, you will still respond pretty much the same way you did the first time. But if I cross an invisible line suddenly your contractile reaction will be different. This idea has been studied extensively in leeches! Leaches have only 4 contractile fields but because the fields overlap, you can get 8 different contractile responses from a leach. But only 8, no matter where you poke. However if you poke a leach with two needles you can get some composite reactions. Anyway that's the basic theory, the meridians aren't necessarily the boarder between two contractile fields, they are lines on the body which strengthen, weaken, or resolve the relationships between contractile fields.
Now that seems testable, as long as you have enough of a military attachment to deter lawsuits.
That probably should have been the whole book, but I suspect Beach wanted to demonstrate how overall shape changing or perhaps shape re-ordering relates to medicine. I mean, I suppose at this point someone could try to argue that posture and alignment play only a small role in over all health, illness and disease, because methods focused singularly on posture have not passed muster (ie. randomized, peer reviewed fights to the death). But the reality is that almost any chronic problem will eventually show up in the bones. Archeologists have taught us that.
Beach continues his argument by discussing his own idiosyncratic clinical experience, and makes some interesting points. He describes 8 basic sitting postures, squatting, seiza, kneeling on the heels with the toes curled forward, seiza on one foot while squatting on the other, pike, on the butt with legs crossed, and on the butt with soles of the feet together. He says that these ways of sitting are all good indicators of the proper functioning or integration of contractile fields. When a patient presents with X problem and has trouble getting into one of these "shapes," it becomes part of their prescription to practice trying to get into it. Not hugely convincing, but it did make me think that these seated postures ought to be part of a routine check-up. If you had to demonstrate your ability to sit in all these positions when the doctor was listening to your breathing and tapping on your knee, it would eventually become part of peoples self-health evaluations. That would be a mighty good thing. I can just see all the mothers fretting that their teen-aged sons have flunked "squatting."
Lastly, Beach spins some fun stuff about the feet. He calls shoes, "sensory deprivation chambers." Who knew? Honestly, this part of the book excellent. He suggests that the vast majority of lower back problems can be fixed by walking barefoot in an uneven rock garden for 20 minutes a day. The feet are very sensitive, they have the capasity to resolve and change complex structures in the lower back. In my own experience many people are suffering needlessly because they never walk on uneven ground. I don't just mean hills or groomed paths. I mean really uneven rocky ground. Scrambling and scurring over rough terrain resets all the components of locomotion--balance, spacial awareness, rhythm, shrinking, expanding, alignment, liquid mass manipulation, and force transmission through the bones.
Having pondered this book for about two months, I have two objections. The first is that he just dodges the "What is Qi" problem. This must have kept him up at nights, finally deciding that the theory stood up better without any explanation of qi. But this leads to the second objection, how do we explain the direction of qi flow in the meridians? If Beach's theory gets traction, and I think it should, we will likely see the notion of qi flow broken down in to different types of flow, each with distinct properties.


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Stampin 'n Stuff: Birdhouse Tutorial and Template: Hope you're all having a lovely Easter! I've had a wonderful day and even managed to spare an hour to do a tutorial and template for this li…
Check out Jo Dumbleton's excellent photos and instructions! What an adorable project!
My name is Betty, Mommy to 5, blessed beyond my wildest dreams. I am a child of God and trying to remember that minute after minute. Also I sometimes work as a Radiology clerk and enjoy stamping up a storm when I have the chance or using needle n thread, paints, glue and scissors, yarn and paper.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Monday, May 21, 2012
Holly Hobbie Children's Oven
Posted by StampingBetty at 10:52 AM 2 comments: Links to this post
Friday, May 18, 2012
What cute friends at the Aldergrove Zoo! That is my daughter and one BFF/classmate on a recent field trip. I love parents who take pictures when you cannot be there and actually print them out and distribute!
Mother's Day was quite an adventure. Let me tell you about my mom. She took these photos of her house with her mobile phone.
This beige house with some brown trim is the house I grew up in from 10 years old in New Westminster. My mother also lived there as a child and is still living there. She just purged her front yard of all those juniper bushes and it was a BIG job. They were only put there so the front yard hills wouldn't have to constantly mowed. It was brutal mowing grass up and down or side to side! I suggested a goat but she didn't go for it. I sure wish I could help out more with her home maintenance. The concrete steps out front are needing some repair. Who knew cement doesn't last forever? Me.
I think I have gotten side tracked. All summer long my mom tries to be in the yard working on it and the garden every chance she gets, weather permitting. She doesn't have the energy to do it as quickly and efficiently as she would like. Here's a photo of her with two of her grandchildren. I made them myself. My mom keeps herself VeRy busy most of the time. She's the kind of grandma who takes you places. She doesn't knit or make cookies but she will bring you to circus school and participate with you! She will not read you stories for hours on end but she will take you for a walk or play with animals with you. She can give you a ride but she isn't too interested in babysitting you. She will not cook your dinner but she will take you out for ice cream or pizza. Her health makes things a bit tricky since her immune system doesn't work too well and neither do her thumbs. Be careful with child proofing because you may inadvertently Amma proof as well. She will put you on her lap in church but don't hold your breath for having a nap together. She doesn't keep kleenex in her sleeve but she does wear glasses around her neck. It's alright if you accidentally break them. She will go to the dollar store for new ones. She likes to sign you up for things for your birthday so watch out. You may be surprised to find yourself going to train camp or lego robotics classes, flowers and clowns training, soccer, baseball, writing courses, ham radio for children, participating in emergency service projects, learning genealogy and those kinds of things. Amma won't let you wear boots on a sunny day or use dangerously sharp scissors at night. Don't climb on things because she is always worrying about what could happen to you. Safety first! If you visit her in her home be careful not to touch or use anything unless it is a toy! Many items are jerry rigged or repaired or customized. Anything at anytime could get broken and you will be blamed! Especially if you are taking said items apart or trying to see how they work. Stick to the toys and you will be fine. If you are one of her four grandchildren there will be a of 8x10" photos of you on the walls through out the house and perhaps even some poster size pictures!
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December 30th I headed out to hang out with my Friend David one last time before going back to school. I tried to get a sick crew of guys to go to the skatepark, which we did, but it was a small sick crew. Rolling out there with me was David Tanner and Doug Tuls. I grew up skating with David. I met doug and his wife/family at college, and skated with him a little bit last year. All 3 of us are a little rusty, from busyness and doug from old age. (he still can skate a mini ramp better then me...) The park wasn't too crowded like last time, we skated the Fossil Night session 9-midnight. I didn't land anything big, just having a good time skating. I am really rusty on hand rails, so I made sure I did about 20 bs boardslides to make sure I still have it in me. There was a few guys that I kinda knew from k-zoo and J-town. It was a good time skating with everyone. Check out some photos from our session, and if you don't believe me that Doug can skate, we got the pix to prove it.
Left - Me - bs 50-50
Right - Dave - fs 50-50
Last time we didn't pull this off, but this time, with about 6 tries we managed to land the trick, doing 50-50s toward each other dropping in as we are about to hit. Good Times doing doubles
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
"Frozen in a Picture"
"Frozen in a Picture"
If everything was to stop
Frozen in time
No more moving forward
Just past left to dine
How would I find you?
Where would you be?
If it was a picture
Would I be ashamed?
I want to move forward
To show you the future
Everything stopped
If it turned to words
How would I read?
"I, me, fame, self glory?"
No, not me, please.
What about my family
Oh and of course Christ
What about Christ?
How I know about salvation
About being justified
Freely by grace
Through the redemption in Christ
How I…Kept it to myself
Afraid to live at His cost?
Please can we move forward?
I see what I missed!
Your time is frozen
It is all lost.
Dale Nolan Jr. Special Invite Chaos Christmas Party
The Dale Nolan Jr. Special Invite Chaos Christmas Party
Once everyone arrived we went out for some ugly sweater shopping. I think we picked out about 20 sweaters for Kati, before she decided which one to buy. 2 Excellent sweaters for Kati, one with original price tag for $52, only $6 at Salvation Army.
Kaliegh sporting her new gift.
The day ended short of more events as we ran out of time due to other events happening later that day, sadly there was no sledding, or snowmen made this year...
Christmas with the Nolan Family
Kim and I choose the decorating for the tree this year. 5 Boxes of Colored lights, Red, Blue and Gold Plastic Bulb Ornaments, Long golden necklace like thingy, little golden sparkly twirly sticks, poking out of the tree, and to top it off with the angel on top.
From left to right: Kurtis, Dale (me), Dad, Mom, Kim, Diana and her husband Mike.
Thanks to Mike for the photo check out his photography at Black Ties Photo
Monday, December 21, 2009
What If... All Athletes were treated like skateboarders
Have you ever wondered what this world would be like, if all athletes were treated like skateboarders? I understand, in some circumstances the problem with skateboarding. However skateboarders are being treated like criminals. Little kids are being taken away in cop cars for what you ask? Not for destroying property, I have seen kids put in headlocks for skateboarding down the sidewalk, and respectfully ask the police officer what they are getting tickets for. Here are some videos to portray what it would be like if other athletes where treated like skateboarders.
(I don't want you to get confused, I respect police, but not when they abuse their authority, I understand in some instances getting tickets for destroying property, but lots of times it is taken way to far.)
(I don't want you to get confused, I respect police, but not when they abuse their authority, I understand in some instances getting tickets for destroying property, but lots of times it is taken way to far.)
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Rodney Mullen Interview
Tony Hawk interviews Rodney Mullen on Shred or Die. Rodney Mullen talks about his switch from regular to goofy, and getting threw an injury.
Modern Skatepark
Wednesday night, I went to Modern Skate Park with David and Jonathan Tanner, Jon's girlfriend and sister, and my brother who took the photo's.
Right - Me (Dale)
Kurtis took photos outisde the window as we skated inside, the park was really crowded. We skated 9-11pm, for half off, during fossil night. There was a lot of old timers, I hope I can still skate like they do at their age.
Modern is a pretty nice park, the mini ramp is very good, the transitions are nice. The street course isn't the greatest, but they have a nice 4ft mini and a 6ft mini, and a 12ft half pipe. The also have a really gnarly bowl, with pool coping in the deep end.
Kim comes Home
This Last Monday, we went to the airport to pick up my sister Kim, from her flight from florida.
Kurtis and Diana, pretending to be bored waiting for Kim to arrive.
We took Kim's Dog Tyler to greet Kim when she arrived
Kurtis and Diana, pretending to be bored waiting for Kim to arrive.
We took Kim's Dog Tyler to greet Kim when she arrived
Tyler's first time on a moving sidewalk. He was a little confused how it works.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
A video featuring Brian Sumner, Steve Cab, Christian Hosoi and many other skaters showing their love for skating, while representing Christ. Only $15 or you can buy a Brian Sumner Pro Model Deck from www.subskatesupply.com and get the DVD for free. Sadly there isn't that much skating in the video, it is mostly Brian Sumner talking.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Snowman Limbo
Thursday, December 10, 2009
The Blizzard is in town!
Check out the World's Largest snowman!
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Strangers & Sparks at Stecchino Bistro
"One idea or one person can change your life forever." - Tom Hill
You have an opportunity to learn, grow, teach, discover or connect – every day. It's up to you. The poster child for this philosophy is author / storyteller George Davis, from Essex, NY. I met George last winter at a Writer's Digest Conference in New York City. I sat in the hotel bar at the end of a session and made small talk, but my brain was in hyperdrive (Am I wasting my time here? Are the people at this conference as bizarre as they seem, or am I starting to channel my inner Hunter S. Thompson? What am I going to do for dinner? How far away from the hotel can I walk before I freeze my butt off? ). My thoughts were interrupted when Continue reading "Strangers & Sparks at Stecchino Bistro" »


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Resources for worship on Sunday, July 27, 2014
marking the centennial of the start of World War One
As people of faith gather to mark 100 years since the start of the First World War, the World War One Centennial Commission invites faith communities to reflect on the suffering of that time and resolve to avoid such suffering in the future. In order to facilitate this remembrance, the Commission has invited Washington National Cathedral to create resources for worship.
These resources include prayers and collects (also suitable as a litany) and homiletic reflections on the scriptures. The Cathedral and the Commission invite you to use these resources, in whole or in part, with freedom to modify them for use by your congregation.
For other religious resources to help plan commemoration of the Centennial of World War One events, click here.
External Web Site Notice: This page contains information directly presented from an external source. The terms and conditions of this page may not be the same as those of this website. Click here to read the full disclaimer notice for external web sites. Thank you.


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Lindsay and Cedar
Cedar and I met at work a few years ago. I remember the moment I saw her for the first time. She made my heart stop. Here we are now, planning our wedding! She is my best friend, my rock, my everything. She makes me believe in true love, in soulmates.
This past Christmas, we met friends for drinks at Hotel Sorrento. The bar cleared out, and suddenly it was just us and the bartender. We slow danced to Christmas music by the fireplace and she looked at me and said "I want to marry you here". It was the most romantic evening, and it would be the most romantic wedding! We dream of getting married at Hotel Sorrento, but it was unattainable until now! My dream of marrying her will come true, but if it could be at Hotel Sorrento… it would be perfect!


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Good Move, Pope
Thomas Whitley
Even if it has taken worldwide outrage at his decision, the Pope has said that
Bishop Richard Williamson must "unequivocally" distance himself from his statements to serve in the Roman Catholic Church.
This is a good move, indeed, but I am concerned about another part:
The Vatican also said that the Pope had not been aware of the bishop's views when he lifted excommunications on him and three other bishops last month.
Cardinal Walter Kasper, who is in charge of relations between the Roman Catholic Church and Jewish leaders, admitted different parts of the Vatican administration had not talked enough to each other, and failed to check where problems could arise.
This begs the question of what exactly the Vatican tries to find out before they reinstate someone and what B16 was thinking by not making sure that the necessary research had been done. I am certainly glad that the Vatican has made this move (also requiring all 4 bishops being reinstated to accept Vatican II, which should have been required from the beginning) and corrected the potentially corrected the mistake, but this casts a lot of doubt on the leadership of B16. This is a quite immature problem to have. It is not like Bishop Williamson made his Holocaust denying statements after the reinstatement. He has been making them for some time now, even as recently as November 2008 on Swedish television. How does that clip not make its way across the desk of whatever committee deals with reinstatements?
Note: Information comes from this BBC article.


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Prediction for next year's mobile app trend is here. Some of the results might surprise, or even disappoint you
App Annie opened up its 2017 mobile app trend prediction in Asia Pacific by stating that it's going to be a "phenomenal year" for the app economy.
"By the end of the year, we expect US$52 billion in gross consumer spend on mobile app stores and a staggering US$77 billion in gross spend on mobile in-app advertising," explained Junde Yu, Managing Director, App Annie Asia Pacific, in the report.
He also explained that not only apps have become primary revenue drivers for digital businesses, but it will also play critical role in strengthening traditional business models in industries like retail and food service. The report give an example of food delivery services such as UberEats, Deliveroo, and Foodpanda, which are predicted to experience an uptick in 2017 (despite the fact that this year Foodpanda had ceased operation in several key Southeast Asian markets).
Also Read: Infographic: Mobile technology trends for 2017
So what is going to happen next year? Check out the following video and let's discuss the highlights from the report:
Let's start with the numbers
When it comes to numbers, the prediction is fantastic.
"We forecast that gross mobile app revenue, including app store spend and advertising spend, will hit US$166 billion in 2017," Yu said.
Gross consumer spend on mobile app stores will constitute US$65 billion with games continuing to become primary driver of this revenue, though subscription revenue from dating and media streaming apps will grow faster. Meanwhile, gross in-app advertising spend –as received through social media, video platform, and games– will account for US$101 billion.
Not only that users are spending more money on these mobile apps, they are also spending more time in it, which likely to be the driving force behind the increase of spending.
Also Read: As 2017 walks in, get yourself ready to face these cyber security threats
"Time spent in shopping apps was up 52 per cent year-over-year on Android phones worldwide excluding China, during the first three quarters of 2016 largely due to growth in mobile commerce. While mobile commerce growth will moderate in 2017, we expect to see a second wave of growth from brick-and-mortar retailers as mobile apps reinvent the in-store experience," Yu explained.
Who will disrupt TV?
Surprise, surprise! The answer is not Netflix, as the report stated that premium subscription services will find it difficult to replace the existing TV paradigm by themselves.
"This balance of power will shift in the coming years thanks to the growth of short-form and live video, YouTube, Facebook, and Snapchat are on path to disrupt traditional TV. It will leave less time available for terrestrial TV, particularly among younger age groups," Yu explained.
Also Read: What are the top 10 tech trends that will dominate 2017?
We will not be talking to machines soon
In 2016, the tech industry was talking about how the rise of chatbots will bring forth what they called "conversational commerce", but the implementation next year perhaps will not go that far.
The first counter-argument will be the very existence of on-demand economy itself. The report stated that food delivery and ride-sharing apps only exist because they remove friction, for example by replacing conversation with a graphical user interface (GUI).
"Chatbots will still play a role, but at least in 2017, artificial intelligence capabilities are unlikely to be sophisticated enough to carry on complete customer service conversations. Chatbot use cases will remain limited to notifications and routing users to the right human touch points," Yu said.
Similar destiny will be faced by voice search. While the release of services such as Google Assistant was believed to help increase voice search queries on mobile, it will fall short of a large scale shift in app interaction patterns. The report believed that it is because existing touch-based interactions are already deeply ingrained and unlikely to shift at this point in the maturity cycle.
Also Read: It's more fun: 500 Startups reportedly to enter Philippines in 2017
"We estimated that voice interactions accounted for approximately 1.2 per cent of total smartphone sessions on Android phones in August 2016. Even with meaningful growth in voice search, we expect voice interactions to remain well under two per cent of overall smartphone sessions," Yu said.
At the other hand, traction will be gained by on-screen suggestions based on the same underlying AI instead.
Instant App, the next best thing since instant noodles
The report considered Instant Apps, which enables access to Android apps without requiring a download, as "among the most important announcements" at this year's Google I/O.
Though developer adoption will happen gradually, and will be led by apps that are used less frequently, the feature will become more powerful thanks to a concept called "dsitributed discovery."
Also Read: 6 foolproof ways to scale up your startup in 2017 and beyond
"Rather than relying on app stores as a single point of discovery, Google has been enabling discovery across its properties … Google Maps is increasingly becoming a source for app discovery with deep links to ride-sharing, hotel booking and food delivery services. In addition to this, Google Nearby sends app prompts when users are in the vicinity of a local business or retail store. And finally, Google search, Google Now and Google Assistant recommendations all target app discovery in different contexts," Yu explained further.
Niantic to go beyond Pokémon GO
Despite having started to show signs of slowing down, Pokémon GO remains a game-changer for its company Niantic.
In fact, the report stated that Niantic will become somewhat immune to a problem that is faced by many game developers, which is the appearance of clones of their successful products. This is because Niantic's location gaming platform is based on a "valuable technology stack (on top of Google's Maps and Places API)" and millions of
user-submitted locations from their previous game Ingress players.
The report believed that it gives Niantic "the first structurally defensible business model" in gaming.
Also Read: Discover a new spin on Echelon come 2017; find out how you can get involved
"At least in 2017, we believe the only new location-based augmented reality (AR) games will come from Niantic themselves in partnership with other IP owners. Pokémon GO itself will see engagement normalise to an extent, but with significant bumps during periodic in-game events and major feature additions," Yu said.
He also predicted that more retail companies will sign up for Niantic's AR-based sponsored location program to drive store traffic.
"In 2017, we expect many more industries like retail, banking and entertainment toexperiment with smartphone AR, particularly those that rely on a physical presence," he concluded.
The new reality
Apart from the increasing use of AR in mobile apps and various offline businesses, the year 2017 will also see the adoption of mobile VR accessories (i.e Gear VR, Google's Daydream Viewer) outpacing PC-based VR devices (i.e HTC Vive, Oculus Rift). It is driven by significantly lower ownership costs and a wider gamut of use cases.
Also Read: Berrybenka to launch brick-and-mortar store in early 2017
For wearables technology, interests in smartwatches will not "live up to the hype" from a few years ago when the products was first introduced.
"In response, we believe OEMs and platform owners will shift investments over to smart glasses, from basic camera-equipped eyewear like Snap Spectacles to full-fledged AR platforms like Microsoft's HoloLens. But with the underlying technology still immature, standalone commercial success will remain elusive in 2017," Yu closed.
Image Credit: IKO / 123RF Stock Photo
The post 2017 will be big year for AR, but we are still not ready yet for voice search appeared first on e27.
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LA RAQS presents "Raqs Sharqi" Summer Hafla
Friday, July 21st, 2017
Doors 8pm/ Show 8:30pm
$10 at the door
LA Raqs is a community service focused on bringing together our diverse and vibrant Los Angeles Bellydance Community. In celebration of this art, we host quarterly haflas highlighting professionals to students, soloists to groups in a wide range of bellydance styles, all exploring a theme for creative inspiration. This is where artists can push, get feedback, try out new ideas, see what works as well as what may not~ all in a supportive environment meant to foster creativity and expression.
Doors at 8pm/ Show starts at 8:30pm
Open dancing & drumming afterwards
ONLY $10 at the door
July's Hafla is dedicated to "Raqs Sharqi"!
Upcoming LA Raqs Haflas:
July 21st "Raqs Sharqi"
October 27th "Dia de los Muertos"
Lineup changes regularly. If you are interested in performing, please contact Aubre at email@example.com with a synopsis of your piece and what date you are interested in. Performance spots are first come, first serve and a waiting list will be created once full with those waiting given a chance to perform at the next hafla space permitting. Please limit sign ups to only one hafla at a time.
LA RAQS presents "Raqs Sharqi" Summer Hafla


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Dropping your precious iPhone is a heart-stopping moment that can end up in a shattered screen and plenty of tears, but Apple has now invented retractable bumpers that automatically activate when it senses a fall. The system is another of the company's famous patents and details a hidden bumper mechanism that extends outwards over the screen to absorb any impact when the phone is dropped.
The patent application titled "Active screen protection for electronic device" shows multiple bumpers or 'tabs' located in each corner of the display made from either 'flexible plastics', 'polymers' or 'thin metals' that will pop out or curl upwards over the screen when the phone's accelerometer, gyroscope or altitude sensor detects an act of butter fingers.
Apple also notes the iPhone's cameras and audio system could be used to trigger the preventative mechanism with motion-capture software keeping an eye on fast-approaching proximity or an ultrasonic pulse being emitted to identify changes in height and speed.
After the impact has (hopefully) been absorbed the iPhone will check its sensors or use a preset timer to make sure the event is over and retract the bumpers 'flush to the unit' using built-in mini motors.
Despite the latest iPhone 6s and 6s Plus using improved Corning Gorilla Glass as well as a tougher Series 7000 Aluminium chassis, the handset's screen is the weakest part and is prone to shattering when it takes a bad fall. However, don't breathe a sigh of relief yet clumsy folk because this is only a patent – there's no guarantee Apple will ever put this into production, rather it has filed to the US Patent and Trademark Office as a safeguard against anyone else nabbing their idea.
The quest for a screen-saving mechanism has been sought after ever since glass-fronted touchscreens arrived on smartphones. While Apple's solution might not see the light of day it is a neat one and is certainly less clunky than Honda's design of built-in multiple airbags that inflate as soon as it senses a phone is on course for a collision.
Other than being officially fully waterproof we cannot think of a better feature to have on a device that can cost up to £789 (iPhone 6s Plus, 128GB) – at least we wouldn't have to wince and brace ourselves each time we pick it up after a fall.
30 years and still going STRONG!!!!
Back to the Future
We have reached October 21,2015!
Are you ready for 4:29 pm?
Lessons learned with 3D Touch by Instagram dev
Fantastic Read!!!
Copy link into safari.
MACOS DiskMaker X Great Util. Please donate to this coder. Works Perfect! Sure you could manually make it, but WHY!
DiskMaker X (formerly Lion DiskMaker) is an application built with AppleScript that you can use with many versions of OS X to build a bootable drive from OS X installer program (the one you download from the App Store). As soon as you launch the application, it tries to find the OS X Install program with Spotlight. Then, it proposes to build a bootable install disk and make it look as nice as possible. It's the easiest way to build an OS X Installer in a few clicks ! Then you can use the Install drive to fully re-install the OS on a freshly formated drive, or install it on your many Macs without re-downloading the full installer.
Now compatible with El Capitan !
As of yesterday, Facebook users will begin seeing 360-degree videos in their News Feeds. The firm says the new video format will take the "immersive content" that people like to see in their News Feeds "a step further." Users will be able to pan around a video as it is playing in a similar way to Google Street View.
Though 360-degree video can be created using multiple camera setups like GoPro's upcoming Odyssey rig, all-in-one cameras like the Ricoh Theta S or Kodak Pixpro SP360-4K offer a simpler and much less expensive way to capture all-around footage. Recorded content can be shared on dedicated portals like Ricoh's theta360.com, but platforms such as YouTube's dedicated 360 video channel and the new Google Street View app offer spherical videographers the potential for bigger viewing audiences.
Now Facebook users can also look around 360 videos posted to News Feeds by dragging a cursor from side-to-side or up-and-down, or with a finger on a touch-enabled a mobile device. When using a smartphone or tablet, it will also be possible to pan around the scene by tilting or turning the device.
Facebook says 360 videos offer a new way of storytelling, or simply allow users to give their friends a better view of the experiences they record. It gives the examples of walking through a small village when traveling or through a festival as occasions that would be well suited to the format. These examples make sense, as they are times when there is no single focal point for the video.
To showcase the technology, Disney has released a 360-degree video for the upcoming Star Wars film. Other launch partner films include shark diving with the Discovery Channel, footage from the set of Saturday Night Live's 40th anniversary show, on-the-ground reporting in Afghanistan from VICE, motocross riding in the Idaho desert with with GoPro and LeBron James demonstrating his training routine.
Facebook began rolling out 360 videos to web and Android users yesterday, with iOS support following in the coming months. Users will be able to start uploading their own 360 videos "over the coming days."
SmartSearch is an affordable and user-friendly Enterprise Content Management (ECM) system that can be adapted to any paper-intensive business.
Ramsey, NJ – September 8, 2015 – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), an information management leader focused on enterprise content management (ECM), technology optimization and cloud services, announced today its partnership with Square 9 Softworks, developers of SmartSearch, an ECM solution for process automation that drives productivity across all business applications.
The ECM solution is well-suited for small to mid-sized businesses, and can be easily introduced to organizations through Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable and Human Resources. With capabilities for workflow and business process management, web-based forms and line-of-business integration, the solution is scalable and can grow with customers' ever-evolving needs.
For document-intensive companies looking to challenge the definition of business efficiency, SmartSearch can provide the unique tools that greatly enhance business process performance. SmartSearch offers a comprehensive feature set that includes every capability that companies are likely to need, along with customizable options for organizations with specialized requirements. Key customer benefits include:
Streamline business processes
Easily share and collaborate on documents
Increase file security and compliance
Eliminate paper-based filing systems
Automate document routing and notifications
Optimizing your business processes, SmartSearch provides better tools and smarter strategies for document maintenance. The software can be quickly learned and applied, increasing efficiency and business opportunity.
"Any company seeking to improve efficiency and document management will be greatly aided by incorporating SmartSearch into the way they do business," said Sam Errigo, Senior Vice President, Business Intelligence Services, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. "No matter the size of a company or the field of work, SmartSearch delivers value-driven solutions that are quick, easy and affordable."
"We are proud to partner with Konica Minolta, a company with which we share the same commitment in driving business efficiency through facilitated information management," said Square 9 President and CEO, Stephen Young. "We look forward to expanding opportunities in document workflow and content management with the addition of Konica Minolta as a new strategic partner."
[Source] (http://kmbs.konicaminolta.us/wps/portal/web/home/about/news/sa_documents/konica-minolta-releases-smartsearch-by-square-9-softworks#.VfwLWt9Viko)
Windows 10 almost time!
Office 2016 for Mac is here!
Microsoft blog post was written by Kirk Koenigsbauer, corporate vice president for the Office Client Applications and Services team.
My favorite VNC/RDP/remote app for the Mac. It's the best
Jump Desktop is easily the best remote desktop client on the Mac. Hands down! I use it everyday. mac download
Skype Translator Preview Access Just Got Easier.
Skype's mission is to bring people together from all over the world, and with Skype Translator we are breaking down language barriers that have historically made it challenging for friends and families to connect.
Today, we're excited to announce that we're making it easier to obtain the Skype Translator preview by removing the sign-up requirement. Simply download the Skype Translator preview application from the Windows Store for your Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 preview PC or tablet – no waiting or sign-up needed – use it as soon as you download it!
Skype Translator currently has four available spoken languages – English, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin, and 50 instant messaging (IM) languages. With IM, customers can write a text message in their language, and the recipient will receive it in their language of choice. Really useful, try it today!
Google plans to build a $600 million data center in Stevenson Alabama, according to Gov. Robert Bentley.
iOS 9 hidden features!
Apple playing catch up! BUT who cares! Great stuff!
Open Container Project to agree on a standardize runtime and image format.
Docker and CoreOS today are jointly announcing that they're working with Amazon Web Services, Apcera, Cisco, CoreOS, Docker, EMC, Fujitsu Limited, Goldman Sachs, Google, HP, Huawei, IBM, Intel, Joyent, Linux Foundation, Mesosphere, Microsoft, Pivotal, Rancher Labs, Red Hat, and VMware on a new Linux Open Container Project. The idea is for everyone — users and vendors — to agree on a standard container runtime and image format and prevent unnecessary fragmentation.
Best iOS SSH client to date! Prompt 2 is elegant coding!
Prompt 2 is totally redesigned. Little pricey at $9.99 but totally worth it. Keyboard works great! CTRL keys and the arrow keys work great!
Finally compiled Openvas to run on my Raspberry PI 2. What a pain!!
In celebration of the cmake joy! I had to change the GSA login screen. I think DATACENTER MAN looks like harry anyway. Why do this! Why not ;)
sftp file to the PI folder /usr/local/share/openvas/gsa/classic/img/
Acronis Backup.....File Clean Up Script
@echo off
setlocal enableextensions
set count=0
rem COUNTS FILES with a wildcard *.tib
for %%x in (Z:\Acronis2012\*.tib) do set /a count+=1
rem if count > 4 then forfiles will purge files older than 4 days BAM!
if %count% gtr 4 (forfiles -p "Z:\Acronis2012" -s -m *.tib -d -4 -c "cmd /c del @PATH")
OS X El Capitan will include TRIM support for third party SSD's Fantastic!!!
No U apple!!
Best feature yet :)
Google is fixing a BIG issue with Chrome for OS X Nice!!
Project Member Reported by shr...@chromium.org, Feb 19, 2015 Related to issue http://crbug.com/458594
I believe it's a matter of adding Mac-specific code to the method RenderProcessHostImpl::SetBackgrounded in content/browser/rendererhost/renderprocesshostimpl.cc.
Notice the date FEB 19, 2015. Please hurry google!!


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Introducing the MATRIX CXM Training Cycle
Now at EveryDay Fitness!
Ideal for metric-focused group cycling classes or for use by riders on your cardio floor
Backlit LCD console clearly displays key metrics and offers intuitive operation when switching between watts, heart rate, RPMs or lap mode (compatible with ANT+ and Bluetooth)
Narrow Q-factor optimizes ergonomics for a real outdoor riding feel
Contoured resistance lever provides tactile feedback for quick changes
Intuitive adjustments customize the cycle to each user's body
Ergonomically sculpted seat relieves pressure on touchpoints
Comfortable multi-position handlebars with an integrated water bottle holder simulate the different grips of real road racing
Are You Ready to Ride?
Not a Member?
We Have a 1-Week Free Pass For You!
EveryDay Fitness in Redding, CA
Our gym is by far the most equipped and complete fitness environment in the Redding Area. We provide an array of cardio & free weights, an expansive functional training area complete with Olympic weight lifting bars, rubber weights, sleds, rings and rowers. We have plenty of pin-loaded weight machines, a spacious group fitness room, upstairs & downstairs lounges, kids club, tanning, a complete supplement shop, massage studio, nutritional therapy & locker rooms with clean showers and well maintained bathrooms. We offer many services to help you achieve the results you're after whether that's to maintain good health or train for a fitness competition; we can assist you with nutrition services, weight loss camps, competition prep services and much more!


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When women are trying to conceive, they often have questions regarding their chances of getting pregnant. There are several factors that come into play when it comes to figuring out chances getting pregnant. Some of the more common factors include regularity of menstrual cycle, maternal age and previous history of pregnancies and live births.
Regularity of Menstrual Cycle
The chances getting pregnant with a regular menstrual cycle history is far greater than it is in cases of an irregular menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle determines the regularity of ovulation. Ovulation is the time when the female body is primed for conception. If a regular menstrual cycle is not occurring, chances getting pregnant are lessened. This may not be due to a lack of fertility, rather a simple lack of knowing when the body is most apt to be primed for fertilization. During ovulation, hormones increase chances getting pregnant because they regulate the acidity of the vagina and prepare cervical mucus to transport the sperm to the awaiting mature egg. Progesterone thickens the uterine walls for implantation. While pregnancy can occur when a woman is not ovulating, the chances are far less likely.
Maternal Age
Women are born with a set number of eggs. With age, the number of eggs available for maturation is less than they were at age 20. The ages of the eggs are also older, so there may be an increased risk of genetic disorders and chromosomal disorders with age. Women nearing menopause will likely be releasing the last of the eggs which may not be ideal for fertilization, thus decreasing chances getting pregnant.
Previous Pregnancy Health History
If a woman has a previous pregnancy health history of miscarriage or infertility, chances getting pregnant is less than they would be in a woman who has conceived easily and carried the fetus to term. With each miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, women have fewer chances getting pregnant. There are treatments for these conditions, in some cases. Miscarriages, for instance, may be due to a lower than normal progesterone level in the body after fertilization. Supplemental progesterone could be used to treat this problem and help increase chances getting pregnant.
The chances getting pregnant are unique to each woman. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and having a yearly pap smear are all preventative measures that can increase chances getting pregnant. Women who have trouble getting pregnant for more than six months should take with their obstetrician about possible fertility treatments to increase chances getting pregnant.


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You can't miss the hydrogen bomb pics in the lobby of Andreessen-Horowitz.
There are four of them, in full color, nestled among bookshelves that contain books about programming and tech entrepreneurs.
Recently, we got a chance to ask Marc Andreessen what they're doing there.
A few years back, he got the book "100 Suns," a coffee table book of declassified U.S. military photos of H-bomb tests from the 1950s and 60s. (I happen to own it as well.)
He thought the pictures were really amazing, and eventually his wife hunted down some of the original prints.
If they represent anything, it's "energy."
Apparently about half of the visitors to the firm ask about them -- more so than some of the very nice art that the firm has on its walls.
Here's another shot, larger:


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Lanson Place Hotel, Hong Kong , Hong Kong
- Free WiFi
- Collect nights
Lanson Place Hotel, Hong Kong , Hong Kongfrom $138
- Deluxe Room
- Grand Luxe Room
- Premier Room
- Prestige Suite
- Superior Room
- Deluxe Family Room
- Grand Luxe Family Room
- Family Prestige Suite
More great choices
What's around Lanson Place Hotel, Hong Kong , Hong Kong
Top spots nearby
Recommended by this property
- Hong Kong Sogo (3-minute walk)
- Hysan Place (3-minute walk)
- Times Square Shopping Mall (5-minute walk)
- Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (15-minute walk)
- Bank of China Tower (24-minute walk)
- Lan Kwai Fong (30-minute walk)
- Soho (33-minute walk)
- Ocean Park (35-minute walk)
- Stanley Market (4.4 mi / 7.1 km)
- Hong Kong Disneyland (9.4 mi / 15.1 km)
Getting around
- Hong Kong (HKG-Hong Kong Intl.) - 36 min drive
- Hong Kong Causeway Bay Station - 5 min walk
- Hong Kong Wan Chai Station - 18 min walk
- Hong Kong Fortress Hill Station - 19 min walk
- Hong Kong Tin Hau Station - 8 min walk
- Free area shuttle
At a glance
Key facts
Hotel size
- This hotel has 194 rooms
- This hotel is arranged over 22 floors
- Check-in time 2 PM-midnight
- Check-out time is noon
- Express check-in/out
Required at check-in
- Credit card deposit required
- Government-issued photo ID required
- Minimum check-in age is 18
Travelling with others
- One child stays free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
- Babysitting/childcare *
- Pets not allowed
- Free WiFi and wired Internet access in public areas
- Free WiFi and wired Internet access in rooms
- No parking
- Free area shuttle within 0.8 mi
Payment types at the property
Other information
- Smoke-free property
In the hotel
- Full breakfast daily (surcharge)
- Restaurant
- Bar/lounge
- 24-hour room service
- 24-hour fitness facilities
- Fitness facilities
- 24-hour business center
- Meeting rooms
- Conference space size (feet) - 1100
- Conference space size (meters) - 102
- Computer station
- 24-hour front desk
- Concierge services
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Limo or Town Car service available
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Laundry facilities
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Luggage storage
- Multilingual staff
- Porter/bellhop
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- Elevator
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Library
- Accessible bathroom
- In-room accessibility
- Roll-in shower
- Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
- Chinese
- English
- French
In the room
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Air conditioning
- Coffee/tea maker
- Bathrobes
- Slippers
- Iron/ironing board
- Pillow menu
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- Premium bedding
- Pillowtop mattress
- Private bathroom
- Shower only
- Designer toiletries
- Hair dryer
- 32-inch LCD TV
- Pay movies
- Digital TV channels
- IPod docking station
- DVD player
- Desk
- Free WiFi
- Free international calls
- Refrigerator
- Microwave
- Kitchenette
- Stovetop
- Cookware, dishware, and utensils
- Free bottled water
- Daily housekeeping
- In-room safe (laptop compatible)
Also popular with travelers from the USA
Special features
Awards and affiliations
- The property is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
Lanson Place Hotel, Hong Kong , Hong Kong's small print
Also known as
- Hong Kong Lanson Place
- Lanson Place Hong Kong Hotel
- Lanson Place Hotel, Hong Kong Hotel
- Lanson Place Hotel, Hong Kong Hong Kong
- Lanson Place Hotel, Hong Kong Hotel Hong Kong
- Lanson Hong Kong
- Lanson Place
- Lanson Place Aparthotel
- Lanson Place Aparthotel Hong Kong
- Lanson Place Hong Kong
- Lanson Place Hotel, Hong Kong
- Lanson Hotel Hong Kong
- Lanson Place Hotel Hong Kong
PoliciesPlease note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property. The policies listed are provided by the property.
Mandatory fees
Deposit: HKD 500 per stay
Optional extras
Full breakfast is offered for an extra charge of HKD 187 for adults and HKD 94 for children (approximately)
Babysitting/childcare is available for an extra charge
We have included all charges provided to us by this property. However, charges can vary, for example, based on length of stay or the unit you book.
Didn't find the right property?Continue searching for Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
Recent reviews
Superb 9.2 From 381 reviews
Great location.
I would recommend this hotel for its location and great service. A few comments from my stay about the room for the management to consider: - hair dryer too outdated and heavy. can consider change. - bed headboard (or it can be the pillow cases, not sure) has oily smell. can improve. - limited room service menu and super long wait time. can improve. - would be nice to have mini bar with snacks and soft drinks
We stayed at Lanson Place 15 days in June, 2018. The hotel location is excellent, about 10 minutes walk from the Causeway Bay MTR station. Via MTR you can get to anywhere in Hong Kong. (We suggest getting an Octopus fare card if staying more than one or two days in Hong Kong). Hotel service was perfect, both in the room and the concierge in making reservations for restaurants, etc. We had a "grand luxe" room. It was only medium sized but well laid out. There's a good coffee maker, fridge, microwave and stovetop. We generally had breakfast and one light meal in the room leaving one meal to a restaurant. For supplies we recommend the Welcome supermarket in Great George St. about 10 minutes away, near the E entrance of the Causeway Bay MTR. The nearby Sogo department store also has a fancier food market in the basement where you can get food to take back to the hotel. A good restaurant 5 minutes away is Din Tai Fung, on Yee Wo Street at the corner of Pennington. It fills up quickly so we went at the 11:30 opening to avoid a line. All in all an excellent stay. We will certainly come back if we can again visit Hong Kong.
Great service and location.
The location was great, you can go shopping just within 10 minuets of walk, 10 minuets walk to 100s of places for food to eat, subway trains also within short distance. The only thing I do give full rating because the kitchen too simple, not efficient for cooking a very simple meal, only has one small pot, no pan. Style of the bathroom sink and the faucet were bad, the faucet was installed on the side instead of the center, bad for you body posture, you can not turn the water more, you can not control the level of cold or hot. Bad design on bathroom.
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Our Data Centers: Mission Critical Infrastructure for a Digital World
Sabey Data Centers serves customers at its campuses across the country with robust, customized solutions that are efficient, reliable, and quick to market. In addition to comprehensive design/build capability, Sabey integrates the experience of its highly skilled operations team into the planning for all its data centers as well as for its customers' design/build-outs. That same team works with our customers to support them into the day to day operation of the facilities, ensuring optimal performance 24/7.
Largest data center campus on the West Coast
Low-cost renewable power and tax incentives
106 acres and 50+ MW, perfect for custom builds
NYC's only purpose-built data center available to 3rd parties
Flexible options in the East Coast's data center backbone
Flexibility and Selection
We design, build, own, and operate powered shell, turnkey, and build-to-suit data centers for clients of all sizes. Build-out your premises within our powered shell or lease commissioned, full service wholesale colocation.
Critical Environment Management
Our campuses are managed by a critical environment operations team handpicked for technical mastery through an exhaustive interview process for rigorous training in our management approach. Each member of this highly disciplined team has the passion and drive for outstanding customer service and support.
Energy Efficiency
Controlled costs are a corollary to efficient management. Our operations team is involved from the very beginning of campus and building design to help incorporate the best methods of delivering efficient energy. The continual search for better ways to provide more energy for less cost has resulted in lower energy bills, low PUE ratios, utility incentives, and industry recognition for superior design and management.
Modular Design
Our modular design gives you room to expand incrementally, and each campus is amply provisioned to meet your future requirements for power, bandwidth, and cooling.
Comprehensive Design/Build
We are unique among data center providers, offering a full integration of expert design/build capability through our affiliate, Sabey Construction, Inc (SCI). Over its 40 year history, SCI has built more than 30 million square feet of commercial property – much of it for highly technical projects in the military, aeronautic, healthcare, and medical research industries as well as three million square feet of data center space with nearly one million currently under development.
Variable Service Tiers
Customer requirements for uptime and availability vary, as does tolerance for higher latency. We can accommodate Tier 1 through Tier 3 mission critical environments to achieve a data center optimized for your purposes.


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Published on
In 2009, with offices located in the surroundings
of the Dutch capital, Red Bull Amsterdam wanted
to move to a more urban location that would
better reflect its culture and involvement in the
arts and sports. Let us remember that the Austrian
company goes much further than simply selling
its famous energy drink. Since its beginnings, it
has been involved in racing sports (Formula 1,
NASCAR, motorcycle racing) and has been
massively sponsoring extreme sports, like the
Red Bull Crashed Ice world championship. The
company has also invested a great deal in music,
helping young artists or creating traveling
workshops like the Red Bull Music Academy, and
in dance, particularly with its famous B-Boys
from the Red Bull BC One Battles.


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It was developed through the "Growing Up in Cities" project, an originally eight-country UNESCO project (MOST Programme) in Australia, Argentina, India, Norway, Poland, South Africa, United Kingdom and USA), later enlarged to include Lebanon, Papua New Guinea and Sweden. It provides concrete examples of methods that can be used to engage young people in looking at and evaluating their local environment, analyzing and prioritizing key issues and developing and implementing a plan of action.
Case studies from project sites help to demonstrate the methods in action and show how they can be customized to meet local needs.
This manual is an important tool for urban planners, municipal officials, community development staff, non-governmental organizations, educators, youth-serving agencies, youth advocates, and others who are involved in the community development process. It offers inspiration to all who believe in the value of community education and empowerment as a fundamental building block of a vibrant and resilient civil society.
Creating Better Cities with Children and Youth is a companion volume both to Growing up in an Urbanising World only published in English (see ISBN 978-92-3-103817-4), all resulting from the programme 'Growing Up in Cities'.
MOTS CLES · Aménagement urbain · Autonomisation · Développement communautaire · Développement participatif · Élaboration de projet · Enfant · Étude de cas · Jeune · Manuel · Participation des jeunes · Zone urbaine


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Volunteering against HIV, a service to humanity
Monrovia, Liberia: The post war in Liberia, like any conflict of its kind in the world, left behind factors that fuel the sexual mode of transmission of diseases including HIV. In keeping with UN Security Council Resolution 1308 (2000), all peacekeepers are required to go through a mandatory awareness sensitation and prevention training on basic facts on HIV/AIDS, personal risk assessment and cultural risk factors to HIV/Sexual TI transmission in post war Liberia.
I arrived in Monrovia, Liberia, in July 2012 and joined the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) HIV/AIDS Unit to serve as an HIV/AIDS Officer for Counselling and Testing. Every two weeks I was required to provide training sessions to all new arrivals to the mission, including international and national staff, UN Volunteers, contractors and uniformed personnel, in collaboration with the Integrated Mission Training (IMTC). The aim was to go beyond raising awareness and change risk behaviours of peacekeepers.
Some of the other activities I undertook included conducting voluntary counselling and testing to UNMIL personnel, both onsite and with visits to the contingents at their various camps situated all over the 15 administrative divisions across the country. Visits to the-various locations afforded us the opportunity to appreciate some of their challenges, and learn to deal with them as best we can. It also allowed the peacekeepers to ask and get direct responses to questions regarding our services.
When Ebola appeared in Liberia, we had to combine our preventative awareness training on both Ebola and HIV. Not everyone was pleased to see us and not everyone gave us the welcoming smile, but in the end, all appreciated the preventative messages.
I also serve as the alternate to the head of the HIV/AIDS Unit any time he is out of the mission area, and at times I am directed to represent him at some meetings and fora. Serving in this capacity afforded me the opportunity to meet and exchange ideas with top management staff at the country level. From time to time, we received invitations and requests to attend and provide training and skills transfer sessions to different groups.
Volunteering, as with life, cannot go without challenges. Sometimes you hear someone say "He is just a volunteer, I wonder why he is giving himself this hard time." I come from a deep place of humility and respect, but such statements are demoralizing, stigmatizing, and convey a perception of unimportance.
At other times one gets satisfied as one is able to put a smile on someone's face and restore their hope. Someone said to me one day: "Please, don't minimize your impact here." So I would like to say volunteering is important because we all count, we all care, and we are all needed. Please receive this gratefulness as a breath of fresh air and allow it to warm our hearts as we continue our important tasks.
Ibraheem Garba, UN Volunteer HIV/AIDS Officer, Counselling and testing a civil servant staff of the United Nations Mission in Liberia


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"Advertising- attention research has come a long way since Nixon (1924) hid behind a curtain and painstakingly observed eye movements of consumers who were paging through a magazine with
print advertisements." (Pieters & Wedel 2004)
Attention is one of the most important faculties of the brain, because it filters the environment for aspects that are worth noticing and considering. If no one knows about a product, no one will buy it.
But how can we find out, whether an advertisement, a certain product or a design draws attention among all the other stimuli we are simultaneously exposed to?
Luckily this is not a guessing game anymore as it was for Nixon, because our brain scanning technology tells us not only if a specific marketing material caught the eye, but also whether it grasped attention.
Using EEG or fMRI it is also possible to identify specific aspects of your marketing material or product design which grasp attention.
"Show me an ad or brochure that doesn't provoke any emotion, and I can guarantee you that it doesn't work." (Perry Marshall)
So advertisement, whether print, radio or TV, should always appeal to the consumers emotions. Whether positive or negative emotions are evoked is not as important as the fact that emotions are evoked at all. There is nothing worse than being boring. Boringness is a guarantee for failure, because the product cannot stand a chance against the vast varieties of interesting and exciting products.
The good news is: we can tell you whether or not your product evokes positive or negative emotions (EEG) or whether these emotions are based for example on joy, desire, lust, trust, familiarity, anger, fear or disgust (fMRI). Additionally we can tell you which scenes in a commercial or which aspects of a print ad or a design evoke positive or negative emotions .
There is a common belief, that if an advertised product cannot be recalled, the efficiency is zero. This, however, is only half the truth.
There are two types of memory that influence the buying behavior of consumers: explicit and implicit memory.
Information which is explicitly remembered includes for example ad slogans, product benefits, and website addresses. Implicit memory however might come into play when other stimuli in the environment remind you of something. So in other words: Explicit memory involves consciously retrievable facts, while implicit memory involves unconscious retention.
The following examples show the importance of implicit memory:
(1) a consumer might decide to buy a brand of shampoo from a television ad despite not consciously knowing why,
(2) or the consumer might develop an unconscious affinity for a certain brand despite not knowing specific facts about it.
However, the above examples show, that implicit memory has a huge influence on the buying behavior as well. The Neuromarketing Labs can determine the efficiency of specific marketing materials before they are applied and thus a lot of money for air time, new design manufacturing, printing of ads, etc. can be invested efficiently.
Classical questionnaire or focus group methods can only access explicit memory.
Further Services
Phone: +49 7191 34028-30
The Neuromarketing Labs GmbH
Stuttgart Office
Siemensstr. 3
71546 Aspach
Executive Board:
Prof. Dr. Kai-Markus Müller
Registration Office:
Amtsgericht Stuttgart
Register Number:
VAT Number:
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