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NFL Power Rankings Week 12: Can Anyone Catch Lamar Jackson?
While the New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers - both of whom are 9-1 - are currently on track to secure the No. 1 seeds in their respective conferences, neither team feels like the prohibitive favorite to appear in the Super Bowl.
In fact, neither team checked in at the top spot on this week's NFL Power Rankings, with another Super Bowl favorite having emerged:
1. Baltimore Ravens (Last Week: No. 1)
As noted in this week's NFL takeaways, not only is Lamar Jackson the MVP favorite, but the Ravens are the Super Bowl favorites. They have the No. 1 rushing offense in the NFL - and No. 2 overall offense - paired with a defense that's limited opponents to just 16 points per game during their six-game winning streak.
2. New England Patriots (Last Week: No. 2)
In Week 11, the Patriots defeated the Eagles 17-10 in Philadelphia to move to 9-1, but there was still consideration to moving them down on this week's power rankings. Ultimately, their defense, which has allowed less than 11 points per game in 2019, kept them at No. 2. But as Tom Brady said Monday, the Patriots offense right now isn't their strength. They are a middle-of-the-pack group offensively, which makes you wonder if they have enough firepower to compete in the postseason.
3. Green Bay Packers (Last Week: No. 3)
Aaron Rodgers and the Packers return from the bye week clinging onto their lead in the NFC North after a comeback win by the division-rival Minnesota Vikings allowed them to move to 8-3. The Packers are 8-2, which puts them very much in the discussion for the No. 1 seed in the NFC. A win this week in San Francisco on Monday Night Football would go a long way in assuring the NFC playoffs run through the frozen tundra.
4. Seattle Seahawks (Last Week: No. 4)
Even after an overtime win over the San Francisco 49ers in Week 10, the Seahawks return from their bye week in second place in the NFC West. If they win the NFC West, they may have home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. If they have to settle for a Wild Card, not only will they not have a first-round bye, but they won't host a playoff game. That makes their showdown in Philadelphia with the Eagles this week very important, as Russell Wilson looks to continue to build his MVP case.
5. San Francisco 49ers (Last Week: No. 5)
For the second time in three games, the 49ers pulled out a close win over the upstart Arizona Cardinals in Week 11. They're 9-1, but wedged in between two close games against the 3-7-1 Cardinals was an overtime loss to the Seattle Seahawks. It's still fair to be skeptical of whether the 49ers will be able to hold off the Seahawks in the NFC West - and possibly for the No. 1 overall seed in the conference.
6. New Orleans Saints (Last Week: No. 6)
Following an ugly loss at home to the Atlanta Falcons in Week 10, Drew Brees and the Saints rebounded for a statement win in Tampa Bay in Week 11. Not only did Brees toss three touchdown passes, but an opportunistic Saints defense picked off Jameis Winston four times. At 8-2, the Saints are still very much in the discussion for the No. 1 seed in the NFC, and considering they're essentially unopposed in the NFC South, they may have the best path to getting there.
7. Minnesota Vikings (Last Week: No. 7)
Kirk Cousins and the Vikings roared back from a 20-0 halftime deficit to defeat the Denver Broncos 27-23 in Week 11 and move to 8-3 in 2019. For as much slack as Cousins has taken - and deservedly so, in some cases - he's thrown 21 touchdowns and been picked off just three times in 2019. He's at least on the fringes of the NFL MVP discussion. All that said, even at 8-3, the Vikings are second in their own division, a half game back of the 8-2 Green Bay Packers, who they lost to in Week 2. To win the NFC North, the Vikings will almost certainly have to beat the Packers at home in Week 16. In the meantime, if they want to keep their chances of having a first-round bye alive - or at least being the top-seeded Wild Card team - it wouldn't hurt to beat the Seahawks in Seattle in Week 13 on Monday Night Football when they return from their bye week.
8. Kansas City Chiefs (Last Week: No. 8)
Though Patrick Mahomes was limited to just 159 passing yards and led the team in rushing yards in Week 11, the Chiefs improved to 7-4 by edging out the division-rival Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football. A win over the upstart Oakland Raiders in Week 13 would go a long way in terms of helping the Chiefs move towards clinching the AFC West title. It also would keep their slim hopes of a first-round bye in the AFC playoffs alive.
9. Dallas Cowboys (Last Week: No. 11)
After defeating the Detroit Lions, the Cowboys are 6-4, one game ahead of the Philadelphia Eagles, who they have already beaten once in 2019, in the NFC East. The Cowboys have a tough date in New England in Week 12. Ultimately, they will probably have to beat the Eagles in Philadelphia in Week 16 to secure the NFC East, though that may be a bet worth taking at this juncture. Also a bet worth taking? Dak Prescott, who leads the NFL in passing yards, is going to be a much wealthier man at this time next year.
10. Indianapolis Colts (Last Week: No. 18)
The good news is that with Jacoby Brissett back, the Colts blew out the division-rival Jaguars in 2019, likely ending the Jags' realistic chances of winning the AFC South. Also good news is that star wideout T.Y. Hilton shouldn't be far off from returning from a calf injury that has held him out of three consecutive games. The bad news is that running back Marlon Mack, who has rushed for 862 yards in 2019, fractured his hand in the aforementioned win. That means he'll miss this week's crucial Thursday Night Football tilt in Houston, which could ultimately decide who wins the AFC South. It is worth noting, though, that Jonathan Williams ran for 116 yards on 13 carries in Week 11.
11. Houston Texans (Last Week: No. 9)
It was perhaps predictable that the Texans would lose to the Ravens in Baltimore. It wasn't predictable that they would lose 41-7, with their offense limited to just 232 total yards coming off of the bye. In any event, the Texans will need to have a very short memory, as they host the division-rival Indianapolis Colts, who are also 6-4, on Thursday Night Football.
12. Los Angeles Rams (Last Week: No. 12)
The Rams defeated a Bears team that's in disarray on Sunday Night Football, but Jared Goff's disappointing season continued, as he was picked off for the 10th time, leaving him with just one more touchdown pass than interception this season. Even at 6-4, the Rams don't have a clear path to the postseason - whether it's through the NFC West or one of the two NFC Wild Card slots.
13. Buffalo Bills (Last Week: No. 16)
The Bills have beaten six different teams in 2019, and those teams have a combined record of 13-47, which sounds fake, but it isn't. But, it's Week 12 and Sean McDermott's squad is 7-3 and in position to secure one of the two Wild Card spots in the AFC. They'll host the 3-7 Denver Broncos this week.
14. Oakland Raiders (Last Week: No. 14)
Though the Jets have shown signs of life over the past two weeks, the Raiders have another seemingly winnable game in Week 12 before a crucial divisional showdown with the Kansas City Chiefs in two weeks. Even if they only go 8-8 or 9-7, that would be an overwhelmingly successful season when compared to preseason expectations for a team that dealt with arguably the most tumultuous preseason in NFL history.
15. Philadelphia Eagles (Last Week: No. 13)
The Eagles took a 10-0 lead over the New England Patriots in Week 11, only to lose the game 17-10. Whether they back their way into a postseason spot in a weak division or not, it's been an extremely disappointing campaign for a team that entered the season with Super Bowl aspirations. Carson Wentz has stayed healthy, but hasn't rediscovered the form that made him the NFL MVP favorite for much of the 2017 season, and that's largely because he has an unacceptable group of wide receivers.
16. Carolina Panthers (Last Week: No. 10)
While they do appear to have caught the Atlanta Falcons at the worst possible time of the season, the Panthers laid an egg in Week 11, further damaging their already slim playoff hopes. Christian McCaffrey was marvelous - he ran for 70 yards and had 121 receiving yards - but Kyle Allen was picked off four times. Even if the Panthers move on from Cam Newton at the conclusion of the 2019 season, it's not necessarily a guarantee that Allen is who they'll proceed with as their quarterback of the future.
17. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last Week: No. 15)
An ugly brawl aside, Mason Rudolph threw four interceptions in a 21-7 loss to the Cleveland Browns on Thursday Night Football. At 5-5, the Steelers feel like a team that has a playoff-caliber defense, but will need to re-tool their offense this offseason as they await on the return of future Hall of Famer Ben Roethlisberger.
18. Tennessee Titans (Last Week: No. 17)
Last we saw the Titans, Ryan Tannehill led the Titans to an upset victory over Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs. At 5-5, the Titans are still at least in the postseason picture, and Tannehill has a chance to play himself into being a starting option for the Titans in 2020.
19. Detroit Lions (Last Week: No. 20)
Jeff Driskel was serviceable in Week 11, as he continued to fill in for the injured Matthew Stafford. But while Driskel tossed two touchdowns, the Lions defense wasn't able to slow the Dallas Cowboys offense, with Dak Prescott throwing for 434 yards. The Lions have been competitive in 2019, but they're now 3-6-1, and the fact that they have the 30th-ranked defense reflects poorly upon defensive-minded head coach Matt Patricia.
20. Arizona Cardinals (Last Week: No. 22)
While it's mildly concerning that the Cardinals have lost as many close games in 2019 as they have, they were the worst team in the NFL a season ago, and seem to have been greatly rewarded with the chance to draft Kyler Murray No. 1 overall. Murray has tossed 14 touchdowns and been picked off just five times in his rookie season, while mixing in over 400 rushing yards. The Cardinals appear to have solidified the quarterback position for at least a decade.
21. Jacksonville Jaguars (Last Week: No. 21)
Nick Foles may have left his late-season magic in Philadelphia, as the Jaguars were blown out 33-13 by the Indianapolis Colts in his return from a broken collarbone. At 4-6, the remainder of the Jaguars season will serve as a way for the organization to evaluate how they proceed at the quarterback position.
22. Chicago Bears (Last Week: No. 19)
Mitchell Trubisky has a $9.23 million cap hit in 2020, the final year of his rookie deal. But with how the 2019 season has played out, it feels like it would be in the best interests of all parties involved for him to have a change of scenery. Of course, unless the Bears are prepared to move forward with Chase Daniel as their quarterback, moving on from Trubisky may be easier than finding a solution at the most important position in sports.
23. Los Angeles Chargers (Last Week: No. 24)
Philip Rivers was picked off four more times in the Chargers Monday Night Football loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, upping his total on the year to 14. As the team prepares to move into a new stadium, it is beginning to feel like it may be time to go in another direction at the quarterback position, with Rivers having one of the worst seasons of his career shortly before he celebrates his 38th birthday.
24. Atlanta Falcons (Last Week: No. 26)
Since Dan Quinn turned over defensive coordinating responsibilities to Jeff Ulbrich, the Falcons have won two consecutive games and outscored the New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers by a combined score of 55-12. It will be interesting to see if the Falcons have a strong finish to 2019 if Quinn is retained for a sixth season as head coach.
25. Cleveland Browns (Last Week: No. 25)
Even in a comfortable win over a division-rival on a national stage, the Browns still left Week 11 with the worst taste in their mouths possible. Myles Garrett, who has 23.5 sacks since the start of the 2018 season, won't return for at least the remainder of 2019. Right now, it feels hard to imagine Freddie Kitchens getting a second year as Browns head coach.
26. Denver Broncos (Last Week: No. 27)
The Broncos blew a 20-0 lead in Minnesota in Week 11. Even if the Vikings are a much better roster than them, there's not much of a way to put a positive spin on that. If there's any silver lining in the Broncos 2019 season, it's that Courtland Sutton, who has 49 catches for 805 yards in 10 games, has emerged as a legitimate NFL receiver.
27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Last Week: No. 23)
Jameis Winston was intercepted four times in a 34-17 loss to the New Orleans Saints in Week 11. Even if you acknowledge that Winston has at times looked like an elite quarterback in 2019, those stretches have been few and far between, and they're overshadowed by the 18 interceptions he's thrown this year. It's unclear how the Buccaneers will proceed at quarterback with Winston's rookie contract set to expire after the season.
28. New York Jets (Last Week: No. 29)
The 2019 season has largely been a lost year for Sam Darnold, though it was encouraging to see him toss four touchdowns in Week 11, even if it was against a Washington Redskins team that's "competing" for the No. 1 pick. The Jets will host the surprising 6-4 Oakland Raiders in Week 12, before two very winnable games against the Cincinnati Bengals and Miami Dolphins.
29. Miami Dolphins (Last Week: No. 28)
Perhaps no team is more impacted by the season-ending hip injury that Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffered than the Dolphins. Not only did they build a roster designed to get the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and probably draft him, but if they end up with a pick below that LSU quarterback Joe Burrow may now be off the board as well. The Dolphins haven't had a franchise quarterback since Dan Marino retired at the conclusion of the 1999 season. The 2019 season hasn't gone in an ideal way if their goal is to end that streak.
30. New York Giants (Last Week: No. 30)
The Giants have lost six consecutive games, but if you're looking for an encouraging sign, rookie quarterback Daniel Jones has thrown nine touchdowns to just one pick over the last three games. The Giants offense will have a tough task against a stout Bears defense in Week 12, though given their offensive struggles in 2019, this is seemingly a winnable game for the Giants.
31. Washington Redskins (Last Week: No. 31)
Dwayne Haskins tossed two touchdowns in Week 11, but the Redskins were blown out in a loss to the New York Jets, who aren't exactly a Super Bowl contender. Their roster is so poorly constructed, it feels almost unfair to try to evaluate Haskins, though with the prospects of another top-five pick, the Redskins need to do that.
32. Cincinatti Bengals (Last Week: No. 32)
With two matchups remaining against the Cleveland Browns, along with games against the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets, it still feels like the Bengals will win at least one game. But make no mistake, the injury of Tua Tagovailoa highlights the need for the Bengals to secure the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.


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I read an article recently that mentioned how actors, when describing another actor's performance, frequently use the word brilliant. In fact, the writer commented on how rare it is for the word brilliant to not be used in the description of a performance.
I've attended several conventions of the National Speakers Association where virtually every speaker gets a standing ovation. It even got to the point where speakers were joking about it from the podium.
I notice, in my own conversations and social media posts, a fondness for the word fabulous. Other people find things awesome, beautiful, sheer genius, magnificent, stupendous, gorgeous, and stunning. Pick your superlative. We put exclamation marks after the simplest text messages: "See you soon!", "Okay!", or "I'm fine!" Sometimes, it seems we're afraid of not showing enough enthusiasm, so we use multiple exclamation marks after the simplest of statements: "See you 2nite!!!!!!!" or "That's super!!!!!!!" Of course, the reason we go crazy with exclamation marks in written communication is the absence of vocal inflection, body language, and facial expression which conveys emotion. It's the same reason we sometimes feel the need to use emoticons such as a smiley face to soften words that might otherwise seem cold or hard.
Please don't misunderstand me. It's not my intention to cast a cloak of dread over anyone's enthusiastic support for his or her friends and colleagues. It does seem, however, that we, as a society, are running on hyper-enthusiastic drive in everything we do. When "awesome" becomes the norm instead of a response to something that's truly awe-inspiring (Were you really awe-struck by that or was it just really good?) or when "brilliant" is used even on performances that, while above average, still are not blinding in their effect, we minimize the impact of an appropriate use of superlatives. We dilute their effect.
I mentioned to my friend Paul that I was writing this blog post. He asked if he should expect vanilla language from me from now on. Heavens, no! (I resisted the urge to use multiple exclamation marks.) What you and Paul can expect is that I will try to be more mindful of my use of superlatives and intonation-oriented punctuation.
What does this mean for us in customer service and end-user support? We simply need to be more mindful of our choice of words and more aware of how we express ourselves around others. By doing so, we ensure that our words and language will always have the desired impact and won't be diluted by overuse.

subset: commoncrawl


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Free Click & Collect
Free returns
Free UK Delivery over £45
3 year guarantee
Product number: 31973
All products include our 3 year guarantee so you can shop with confidence
Create show-stopping, awe-inspiring desserts for friends and family with this wonderfully unique Silicone Raspberry Dessert Mould. The mould comes in two parts, with a rounded base ideal for sponge cake and a raspberry-inspired mould to add an impressive, detailed topping to your bake. Whether you crown your bakes with jelly, mousse or ice-cream, no one will be able to resist!
Superior quality silicone
The flexible silicone allows for a design with incredibly intricate detail; looking like a batch of perfectly-formed raspberries, it makes for an irresistible topping for your dessert. Plus, due to the incredible non-stick properties of the silicone, you don't need to grease the mould beforehand, making for slightly healthier baking while guaranteeing your creations release with ease.
There are so many different, delicious options with these moulds. You could bake a sponge base topped with a raspberry-flavoured ice cream; or for a mouth-wateringly tempting cheesecake, why not try a biscuit base and cream cheese topping in the larger mould, with a raspberry mousse or jelly as its crowning glory? As the moulds are oven safe, you could even bake a New York-style cheesecake, or how about an indulgent chocolate mousse topped with a tangy fruit sorbet? The possibilities are endless!
Oven and freezer safe
The marvellously robust silicone is oven safe up to 230° and freezer safe down to a very chilly -60°, so whether you're making a sponge cake or a frozen dessert, you can rest assured that this mould will deliver a beautiful result. The mould is even microwave safe, so you can make quick and easy sponges when you have a hankering for something sweet.
Food glides off this silicone mould with ease, making washing up a breeze. Better still, you can pop it into the dishwasher when you're done for a fuss-free clean-up.
The Silikomart Silicone Raspberry Dessert Mould comes with a recipe book. However it can also be used to make our Raspberry & Mango Coconut Cream Parfait recipe.
About Silikomart
An Italian company based near Venice, Silkomart came to be in 2002 and, thanks to their technical expertise and design knowledge, immediately became leaders in the production of silicone cookware and baking moulds. Using his years of experience gained in the family pastry tool business, founder Dario Martellato became dedicated to creating exceptional quality products that fulfilled real needs in both home and professional kitchens, consulting food professionals in Silikomart's 'innovation laboratory' to ensure they don't just create super-flexible high quality bakeware that lasts, but real tools, designed by chefs for chefs.
28 x 12 x 4cm H.
* Some delivery services may not be available in your area, the delivery page will display the available delivery services during checkout.
We want you to enjoy shopping at Lakeland with complete confidence, which is why every single product you buy from us comes with a 3 year guarantee – just bring along your receipt or emailed order confirmation as proof of purchase. Plus all returns are free.
To do this, it would be really helpful if you could call one of our friendly Customer Services Advisors on 015394 88100 first, as there are occasions when it may not be necessary for you to be inconvenienced by sending a product back to us.
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Intro Nordvpn Changelog
NordVPN offers a VPN service at a relatively cheap price that allows its Users to browse safely and anonymously. Their virtual private network servers use OpenVPN tunneling protocol and AES 256-bit encryption (with dual data security ). Nordvpn Changelog
When it comes to private networks, Or VPNs, NordVPN has proved itself to be for securing your activities, our service. The business now has more than 5,100 servers across the globe, which makes it. It requires a strong stance and contains tools. NordVPN wraps all that up in a client that's consistent across every platform on and it features ad blocking for good measure. For numerous features, its superlative consumer experience, and powerful company, it's a rare 5-star winner.
Click here to subscribe to NordVPN.
What's a VPN?
When researchers cobbled the ARPANET together They didn't give much consideration to privacy or security. While a whole lot in the intervening decades has changed, it is still true that the net does little to secure your data and your identity. That's why you need a VPN.
When you switch on a VPN, it creates an Encrypted tunnel between your personal computer and a server controlled by the VPN service. All your web traffic is routed through this tunnel, meaning that no one, not someone on precisely the same system as you, can sneak a peek. It also prevents network operators from intercepting your data or using DNS poisoning techniques to trick you into visiting pages. A VPN also protects your web visitors from being tracked by your ISP, which can be important now that ISPs can market user information.
Because your web traffic appears to emanate In the VPN server and not your computer, your IP address is hidden from the external world. Because an IP address may be used by spies and advertisers to track your movements that's valuable. IP addresses may also be used to approximate your location, which is another reason. Nordvpn Changelog
VPNs have long been used by journalists and Activists to access sites blocked by repressive governments. You can also use them to bypass the cubes on streaming content that's limited to certain regions placed. For instance, if you jump into a VPN server in Canada, then you might find you're in a position to watch MLB games. It is worth noting that Netflix blocks VPN users, therefore a VPN that works with Netflix one may be blocked the next.
There's a Fantastic chance That You Might have never Laid hands on a VPN before. Don't worry if that's true! We've got a whole feature on the best way best to prepare and use a VPN.
NordVPN Benefits
NordVPN is probably the VPN supplier who boldly claims To be The World's Most Secure VPN.
But I've seen those claims. I bought NordVPN and chose to Place it. Here are the experts I found…
Strict No Travels Policy
While some VPN suppliers keep some logs, NordVPN does not.
They do track Some lesser important information, for example:
- Service performance data (for advocating most appropriate servers)
- E-mail speech
- Payment data (however you can also use bitcoins)
That is the standard stuff that most (if not all) VPN providers are logging And it's nothing you should be worried about. Particularly when NordVPNs payment processor isn't tied up with their principal firm.
Powerful Features & Add-Ons
While being relatively cheap, they do supply some Fantastic features Such as:
- IP concealing: Yes
- Netflix accessibility: Yes
- Kill-switch: They've got two different kinds of kill-switches: a user is now able to select whether to close a specific app or fully terminate the online connection in case of sudden dropout (system-wide kill-switch).
- 6 simultaneous connections
- Access to their own DoubleVPN servers that encrypts data double
- 4870+ quick and protected Servers
- Countries 62
- 6 simultaneous connections
Not only do they have applications for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android they have detailed tutorials for Protocol connectivity for these and 40 other cellular OS, RaspberryPi's and routers.
- Kill Switch: NordVPN software automatically kills your link if your VPN connectivity is interrupted, blocking your device or terminating certain programs from accessing the internet.
- DNS Leak Protection: If you have installed your VPN connection manually (state you did not wish to join via OpenVPN) or have recently reset your Windows, you're prone to DNS leaks. All these DNS requests will be wholly unprotected. NordVPN have implemented steps to protect you and negate such leaks.
- Onion Over VPN: For extra security, or those desiring to visit the darkened web (TOR network), NordVPN supplies you with the ability to route your visitors first through their VPN and then send it to the Onion Router.
- SmartPlay: SmartPlay technology ensures you can get over 400 geo-restricted streaming solutions; Netflix, Amazon Prime, Pandora, BBC, and others. With increasingly more VPN servers unable to get Netflix, this can be a welcome feature. Nordvpn Changelog
OpenVPN (among other tunneling protocols)
OpenVPN includes 256-AES-CBC with a 2048bit Diffie-Hellman key. I Generally prefer to watch DH over RSA, due to the former enabling Perfect Forward Secrecy. On iOS and MacOS customers, you will be encrypted through an IKEv2/IPsec protocol; AES-256-GCM along with also a 3072bit DH key,
In Summary, NordVPN has gone all out on security and has employed Above industry standard encryption algorithms.
Double Data Protection
If you opt to turn this attribute, NordVPNs double security will Relay your info via none, but two subsequent VPN servers, before it reaches the web page or application you're attempting to get. By chaining your link through two VPN servers, your data gets encrypted double.
Along with the (often unnecessary) double security, the next VPN Server will be unaware of your IP address and relations are made through TCP and UDP protocols. This is a"one additional step" security attribute. Your majority are unlikely to require it, particularly if you're using it only for torrenting and Netflix unblocking.
And of course the impracticality of the radically reduced rates You are going to incur.
NordVPN Rate is Stable And speedy
Ah, bones and the meat of any Respectable VPN review — independent, Prolific and Meticulous speed testing.
When I first reviewed their speeds weren't anything to brag about.
However, when I re-did this rate test in December 2018 See their rates one of the top.
To gauge just how effective NordVPN is at procuring your traffic, I Conducted several dozen rate tests attached to the US, UK, EU and Asian servers.
And while the VPNs managed to achieve download speeds of 70 Mbps+ and up, NordVPN came outside with 74.15 Mbps.
US Server
- Ping: 101ms
- Download: 56 Mbps
- Upload: 29 Mbps
On average, pretty good for a six thousand mile journey.
EU Server
- Ping: 37ms
- Download: 74 Mbps
- Upload: 48 Mbps
Decent rates for EU.
Asia Server
- Ping: 211ms
- Download: 12 Mbps
- Upload: 5 Mbps
Bad for a Europe into Asia connection!
Overall, NordVPN is comparatively fast VPN provider. Nordvpn Changelog
Works Great for Torrenting and Netflix USA
Since NordVPN includes a Great Deal of servers that they work well with Torrenting and bypassing.
As soon as I tested NordVPN together with Netflix it appeared to work.
I have to admit, not all servers are functioning with Netflix, since we All understand how Netflix attempts to crack down IPs that appeal to VPNs.
But 5 from 6 should do the job. Here are my Netflix evaluation results:
NordVPN servers unblocking Netflix:
- United States (2)
- United Kingdom
- Netherlands
- Canada
NordVPN servers blocked by Netflix:
- Sweden
You can always get in touch with their customer service who will help You select the servers to your streaming.
Torrenting is secure and quick .
NordVPN has made special"P2P servers" that are exclusively meant for maintaining Your activities that are torrenting safe and private. You can get into the P2P servers through"specialty" servers list on their program.
No IP or DNS Leaks Located
Whenever I review VPNs, I make Numerous tests to see if they're Shifting IP or my DNS.
I put my location to their USA server utilized 5 to make these true Different sites for assessing DNS leaks:
- IPLeak.net
- Perfect-Privacy. Com DNS & IP leak evaluation
- Browserleaks.com for WebRTC leaks
- IPC.ax
I could be certain that your IP nor DNS will likely never get Leaked when utilizing NordVPN.
Moreover, when I did research on Chrome extension escape test, NordVPN Was among the few that didn't have to fix it as it wasn't leaking (read the entire case study here).
Found in Panama (Safe Jurisdiction, No Data Retention Law)
According to their site (NordVPN.com), NordVPN was established 2008 in Panama and is operated by Tefincom co S.A.
For some, this may raise a red flag.
However, that's common practice.
All VPNs are located Share information on logging (Switzerland, Singapore, Caymans, British Virgin Islands and so on).
NordVPN definitely hides This information well enough. And it is good for their users, also.
However, when I paid for the test account to write this NordVPN Review, my payment went into CloudVPN Inc (located in the US). So aren't they located in Panama like the claim?
To be honest — that makes a whole lot of sense. They're"officially" predicated in Retention legislation. Nordvpn Changelog
Knowledgeable Customer Support via Live Chat
NordVPN could be contacted by [email protected] or via Live chat.
Even after reviewing three dozen different VPN providers Of hours of analyzing, testing and reviewing, we have queries or desire for assistance.
Whether it's to double check the security offered for your router, or A simple troubleshoot on a rig that is newly built, you will be made to take care of the customer support of your VPN of choice.
If you're a newcomer or not inclined? You might have some Technical questions.
Any VPN worth their salt will have a prolific database of tutorials, Guides and posts as well as live chat email support.
Click here to subscribe to NordVPN.
Live Mail & Chat
No NordVPN has started Offering chat that will help you with any query you might have. I utilized their chat double, to get also an open-ended query and an encryption query.
Both times the Client Support Rep was quick to assist, but arrived with Copy & paste response.
Should you opt to utilize their service Or when the live chat agent did not solve your issue, you will get another helper who will help you with your own VPN. Nordvpn Changelog
As important as assistance for questions is the vast Directory of support articles you will have access to. For a subject as networking, making it accessible to your regular layman is no small task.
After going through their directory and immediately skimming to any support I estimate NordVPN to have well over 500 tutorials and guides.
Works Great for Torrenting and Netflix USA
Since NordVPN has a Great Deal of servers that they work nicely with Torrenting and bypassing.
As soon as I analyzed NordVPN together with Netflix it appeared to work.
I have to confess, not all servers are still working with Netflix, since we All understand how Netflix attempts to crack down IPs that appeal to VPNs.
However 5 from 6 should work. Here are my Netflix test results:
NordVPN servers unblocking Netflix:
- United States (2)
- United Kingdom
- Netherlands
- Canada
NordVPN servers
- Sweden
You can get in touch with their customer support who will help You select the servers to your own streaming.
Torrenting is safe and fast too.
NordVPN has made special"P2P servers" which are solely meant for keeping Your activities private and safe. You are able to access the P2P servers via"specialization" servers list in their application. Nordvpn Changelog
Your Privacy With NordVPN
If you use a VPN, it has insight Your ISP does. It could examine every piece of data passing through its system, if it so desired. It can identify you making it feasible to monitor online. That's why it's important that before you buy a VPN subscription, you know and are familiar with the steps that the company has made to safeguard your privacy.
A representative from NordVPN promised me that The company does not insert ads into your web traffic, nor does it profit from the sale of consumer data. In terms of data it collects, the firm representative explained that NordVPN simply collects aggregated statistics and data. The agent confirmed that NordVPN doesn't gather any personally identifiable details. All this info is available in the company's privacy policy.
2018, in November, NordVPN announced that it Had passed a third-party audit of its own no-log coverage by one of the"big four audit firms." It unites several VPN companies, including TunnelBear VPN, that are undertaking audits. The effort shows that the companies are seriously interested in customer privacy and security, although Every one of these audits is different. More companies will soon follow suit.
NordVPN is based in and works under the Legal authority of Panama, where there are no laws requiring the enterprise to retain data for a period that is compulsory. The business says it doesn't collect log information, therefore it has no advice it can actually hand over in response to a subpoena.
It is difficult, however, to endorse the Privacy practices of any given VPN business. To do so would require the expertise to interpret all of it, in addition to access to the company's code and hardware. Nevertheless, based on my discussions with NordVPN and reading the company's privacy policy, it seems to be saying all the right things. As always, however, you as the customer must ask yourself whether or not you are familiar with trusting any given company with your own personal information. Nordvpn Changelog
Hands On With NordVPN
With this review, I used a Lenovo ThinkPad T460s laptop. Some VPN services prefer to just use the VPN client software built into the system rather than creating a standalone program. NordVPN offers both options. I completed my tests all utilizing the NordVPN Windows client.
Every VPN company I have reviewed thus Far offers programs rather than requiring that you manually set your VPN. NordVPN has ever offered an excellent user experience whatever the platform you use, with its programs. At testing, the Windows client shared a great deal of design features using the NordVPN mobile programs, using a monochrome map as its focus. It's a bit whimsical, with submarines and ships on the cartoon seas, but it is an easy way to pick the server you want.
A search bar at the Peak of the screen makes Short work of finding a server in case your geography skills are missing, or the servers can be viewed by you as a listing. The servers that are specialized are placed by this option and it provides useful analytics about the load on any server that is given.
Clicking the Quick Connect option on Top Of the screen or the System Tray, joins you to the VPN server that NordVPN believes is best (normally, the closest and so fastest). That is a great option for people unfamiliar with VPN solutions, as is the Settings option that forces NordVPN to start and connect on startup.
You can also change The DNS resolution service, though NordVPN uses its own option. The client includes options to automatically connect on startup, however, it doesn't have a split tunneling feature that allows you some traffic outside the VPN's encrypted tunnel. TunnelBear is one VPN service which does include this attribute, though utilizing it will reduce your protection.
In the NordVPN settings you can select a TCP or UDP connection, and also opt to connect to what the firm calls"obfuscated servers," which it says helps reconstruct authorities VPN blocking. The client includes a Kill Switch which shuts off access to the web for certain applications, if your computer become disconnected from the VPN. Nordvpn Changelog
NordVPN Drawbacks
Refund Could Require ~30 Days
Though NordVPN offers 30 days Lots of the people, money back guarantee Have contacted us saying that it works, but with a caveat…
It takes NordVPN almost 30 days to process your refund.
While this isn't a large problem, it isn't a user experience. Many VPNs provide refunds using a max period of seven days.
However, I wouldn't refund (nor did not ) NordVPN, therefore that I doubt you'll need To utilize that feature.
Business Not Transparent Enough
As mentioned previously, upon my evaluation, NordVPN appears to be connected with CloudVPN Inc — A company located in the U.S. that is in contradiction of what they say on their website.
But that doesn't mean they are not personal or really located in the USA.
They gave me a response, though…
And by thinking two — it left a great deal of sense to me. So I wouldn't Section it to cons, however.
Pricing and Features
NordVPN supports Android, Chrome, Firefox, IOS, Linux, Windows with useful programs, and macOS. NordVPN's mobile customers both permit you to purchase subscriptions that are full through their app shops. You may configure some routers to connect via NordVPN. Doing this supplies coverage for all of the devices on your network, including home devices which can not run a VPN by themselves.
NordVPN provides four pricing tiers: $11.95 each Month, $83.88 yearly, $95.75 each couple of decades, or $107.55 each 3 decades. The business accepts credit cards, naturally, but additionally PayPal, various anonymous cryptocurrencies, and other payment methods. NordVPN includes a 30-day money-back warranty. Nordvpn Changelog
NordVPN also offers a free trial But it has not made it effortless to get, and, considering the constraints, it's almost not worth it, years. There are generous and lots of capable free VPN services out there. ProtonVPN is our top pick for free VPNs, since it places no information limit on its own users.
You can use up to six devices On NordVPN, even though there are a few limitations concerning linking devices. That's still excellent, as most VPN services limit you to five simultaneous connections. If you need more than six devices, look at installing NordVPN on your own router (as mentioned above). 10 device slots are especially provided by cyberGhost, and the two Avira Phantom VPN and Windscribe VPN put no limit on the amount of devices you may use. Most services allow you to add apparatus slots.
As of this writing Top-rated VPN service is about $10.68. NordVPN is above that typical, but its host of extra features, excellent apps, and heart support over justify the price tag. That said VPN services have flexible and lower-cost plans. KeepSolid VPN Unlimited$8.99 at KeepSolid, as an instance, provides a life subscription, if you happen to would like to hedge your bets on collateral to the 22nd century. Private online Access, on the other hand, costs just $6.95 a month and stocks an Editors' Choice award with NordVPN.
Among the perks of using a VPN is that your Real IP address is concealed from the external world. The problem is that some websites and providers can blacklist that IP address. For that, you will have to purchase a static IP address, which NordVPN can supply. For a $70.00 charge, you can procure a dedicated IP address on a NordVPN server in Germany, the Netherlands, the Uk, or the USA. Static IP addresses are handy if you're worried about VPN traffic being obstructed, and NordVPN's broad choice of US and Western European IP addresses means that your new static IP will go unrecognized. Note, however, that you have to email NordVPN and request a dedicated IP address. Other providers, such as TorGuard VPN$4.16 in TorGuard – 24 month program and VPN Unlimited, provide static IP addresses as easy add-ons to an existing subscription.
NordVPN for iPhone
NordVPN for iPhone proceeds NordVPN's Tradition of supplying the user experience supported platforms. Even on iPad or even iPhone , all the features feel quite familiar to users of NordVPN products.
Unfortunately, the iOS variant does not have any Of the options that you find in the Android edition, because of the quirks of all iOS. However, this well-designed app feels very much at home on Apple's platform. NordVPN also brings Smart Reconnect feature and its Kill Switch, which can be quite welcome.
Unsurprisingly, NordVPN has an Editors' Choice for VPN for the iPhone. Nordvpn Changelog
NordVPN for Android
The Android client for NordVPN is Sleek, with a brand new interface that retains the map but introduces a more glowing appearance.
NordVPN has taken great pains to Supply a Each client is tweaked to work best on each stage, although Familiar experience throughout every device that the company supports. For example, on Android, you can still get into the company servers that are specialized. We like this you can browse a complete list of servers in a country, not merely a broad category.
For the excellent collection of attributes and Excellent interface NordVPN is an Editors' Choice for Android VPN apps, too.
NordVPN for both Chrome and Firefox
Besides computers and mobiles, NordVPN Provides a Firefox add-on, a Chrome plug-in and, more lately. Browser plug-ins for VPNs are becoming more common, and it's a development I love.
When busy, they secure the data that is Transmitted through your browser, leaving the rest untouched. This can be a compromise in safety, but it may be more effective for some activities, such as gaming with a VPN. A company representative tells me that both extensions have been encrypted with TLS 1.2.
The NordVPN browser VPN lacks the granularity Of the full-fledged customer on Firefox and Android. You can not connect to servers, as an example locations. These plug-ins are, nevertheless, easy to use and lightweight, and they include all the company's CyberSec protection, which I discussed above. They have ability to block WebRTC, which could leak information. Nevertheless, I favor the plug-ins out of TunnelBear, one of which functions as a VPN connection and the other.
NordVPN for Mac
As with Android, there are a few yells That make the customer for NordVPN feel right at home on a Mac. The view is that the familiar and beautiful monochromatic map, with submarines and its cartoon ships. Nevertheless, the left goes in with a slickness of their apps that are macOS that are ideal. Clicking the magnifying glass to hunt the servers blurs the main page out. These are little tweaks, but most VPNs services don't require the time to optimize their clients.
After I last examined the Mac app Complaint was that NordVPN's excellent technical servers are too hard to find via the Mac client interface. You need to apply exceptional filters into the complete listing, or notice the tiny links at the bottom of the webpage. These should be front and centre to allow the consumer. I want you can select different VPN protocols, however, on the flip side, NordVPN already utilizes my option, OpenVPN.
Regrettably, NordVPN performed badly in my Last batch of macOS VPN speed tests. Nevertheless, the features and expertise of NordVPN outweigh the speed results, and NordVPN is among our VPN clients for Macs. Nordvpn Changelog
Do I Recommend NordVPN?
Slimming down, I do urge NordVPN.
It's secure, safe and fast. Plus it doesn't come with a Massive learning Curve as some VPNs like TorGuard or AirVPN.
Their host park is the biggest that I know of, 4870+ servers in 60+ countries.
It is not the fastest VPN, but the operation is steady and fast. I would not If they land 1st if they maintain the fantastic performance at low rates, be surprised.
Will see what the future brings, but for now — I am pretty much Recommending NordVPN, particularly if your budget is limited.
In my experience, the typical person would Rather risk with no security than deal with security software that is frustrating. That NordVPN succeeds: This makes using a security tool simple. It has everything we expect in a VPN and then some, with specialized servers for Tor-Over-VPN and double encryption being the support's standout features. Continued server updates make it the VPN service and advertisement blocking and community security features increase NordVPN's abilities still greater. NordVPN also has an superb stance on consumer privacy, operating out of the legal authority of Panama and collecting data.
These factors are more than Enough to warrant its monthly cost that is comparatively high. NordVPN is a wise option, is highly suggested.
Click here to sign up for NordVPN.


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2018 Favorite Winter Trend: Waist Belts over your Jacket or Coat
Posted on July 12 2018
If you love accessories like we do, here is one of our favourite trends this seasons: wearing a belt over your jacket or coat. It will give all your outfits a cool, sophisticated touch. You can try it with fall jackets, as well as on maxi winter coats.
Check out our waist belt selection here
Add some Colour:
|Picton Belt
|Whitney Belt
Classical black and white:
|Zena Belt
|Belinda Belt


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Think about Edmontonians with disabilities when you look at the next word.
What comes to your mind's eye immediately?
Wheelchair ramps?
Grab bars in public washrooms?
Braille signs?
Closed captioning in entertainment?
And, you would be correct. Absolutely correct.
But … the time has presented itself where we, as community members, can challenge ourselves to really think out of the box when thinking about accessibility for people with disabilities.
Ramps, braille and signing devices were, in my mind, the first chapter of the accessibility movement.
Those adaptations and enhancements enabled people with disabilities to access public buildings.
But, only on a brick and mortar level.
For someone in a wheelchair, it's great to have independence of being able to go into a building. But if there isn't a mindset of accessibility inside the building, perhaps the experience isn't what it could be.
That's why the City of Edmonton asking for feedback on accessibility is so refreshing … and, frankly, timely.
One word in the title is especially encouraging. It's name is Accessibility for People with Disabilities Policy.
See that word? The one starting with the letter "p".
As in policy.
In other words, way before the concrete is poured for ramps, policies are set — in concrete, of course — to ensure there's accessibility inside the building.
What a wonderful wheel rotation forward.
It's something Rick Hansen has encouraged and fostered since he went for that spin around the world in his wheelchair more than 30 years ago.
Historically, society wasn't comfortable in considering accessibility as attitudinal.
The time wasn't right.
But Hansen and his Vancouver-based foundation has continually promoted accessibility as a full-meal deal: to implement systems to help people with disabilities be able to be part of the community.
The city's updated accessibility policy will be heard in policies, civic engagement, programs and services, communication and technology and infrastructure. The city is looking at applying the thought of accessibility as a fundamental to the quality of life, well — being and engagement in social, economic, cultural, spiritual and political aspects of life.
Five drop-in sessions were scheduled, starting Feb. 26.
The fourth one goes Thursday at the Clareview Community Centre from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The fifth and final session is March 13 at the Terwillegar Community Recreation Centre.
And talking about making things accessible, there's an online survey you can take at https://www.edmonton.ca/city_government/initiatives_innovation/city-accessibility-policy.aspx
It's an exciting time, indeed, for not only for Edmontonians with disabilities — but for all Edmontonians.
So … let me ask the same question.
What does accessibility for Edmontons with disabilities look like to you?


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Rocks Locks is Your Local ERA Security Installer
Here at Rocks Locks, we've recently been undergoing training to become an approved ERA security installer.
ERA Total Security has been driving innovations in home security in Britain since 1838. The company has over 175 years' experience in manufacturing and designing security products.
And now they have an impressive range of smart home security solutions.
Wireless smart phone alarm security systems
ERA has introduced a range of smart wireless home alarms and intercom systems that are easy to install and suitable for most homes.
As well as securing your home with traditional locks, you can bring an additional layer of protection by installing a smart alarm system.
These innovative systems communicate wirelessly, eliminating the need to install wires and other paraphernalia. You have the choice of connecting to an array of accessories including a Wi-Fi HD camera, ceiling-mounted or narrow beam passive infra-red sensors, vibration or water sensors, replica or mains-powered sirens. There are also handy contactless radio frequency identification tags and remote controls for arming and disarming.
ERA flexible systems allow you to fully or part-set alarm zones so you can adapt your security level at night time. There's also a compatible app to enable you to remotely control and monitor your home even when you're away.
ERA Invincible Dual Network Smartphone Alarm System
The ERA Invincible is a high-specification smart home alarm system that's the most elite in the range. It works on a dual network that can be used with mobile, SMS and landline communicating options – which means it can be accessed via an app from anywhere. And, if one signal fails, it can alert you via another.
The ERA Invincible System is programmable by either a smartphone or control panel giving you flexibility on how you decide to manage it. It's easy to set up and comes pre-paired with sensors and remotes included in the kit. Its quick pairing functionality allows additional accessories to be added easily, as and when you choose.
Features include multiple alerts such as push notifications of who has armed and disarmed the alarm, intrusion by zone, power failures/recoveries and personalised alerts.
ERA Valiant Siren Starter Alarm System
The ERA Valiant is ideal for smaller homes as a standalone system, or it can be used as an expansion pack for any ERA wireless control panel alarm system. It's also perfect for protecting outbuildings, caravans or boats.
This wireless alarm is pet-friendly with a loud 110db external solar-powered siren and strobe. The siren has flashing comfort lights 24/7 that will act as a visual deterrent.
You can extend its range of capabilities with ERA accessories or use it with any of the alarm kits to create a smartphone alarm kit.
Would you like expert advice on the latest ERA wireless smart phone alarm security systems?
Stuart is a trained and approved ERA security installer who can advise on the best ERA wireless smart phone alarm security systems for your home.
If you'd like to find out how their innovative security products can protect your home or business, he will conduct a FREE security survey and provide advice on the best security solution to meet your needs and budget.
Call Stuart on 07900 335525 or visit www.rocks-locks.co.uk for furthe information.


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While doing my spring/Passover cleaning, I came across this women's haggadah that I had once illustrated for Ma'yan, the Jewish Women's Program at the JCC. In the mid '90s, Ma'yan held their first annual feminist Passover Seder in New York City, which became a tradition that continued for many years. Since then feminist Seders have been held throughout the United States to call attention to the roles that Jewish women have played in our history, as well as to encourage female leadership in the future. In honor of Women's History Month, commemorate Miriam — the sister of Moses — who helped the Israelite women while fleeing Egypt. Take a moment to reflect upon strong and positive female role models who strive to make a positive impact on women in modern society. As we approach the Passover holiday, think about what you can add to your Seder ceremony to make the Passover experience more meaningful and inclusive.
Category Archives: Posts
Searching for a Jewish past through recipes with Jewish roots.
This past October, I received an email from Hélène Jawhara-Piñer, a young French woman with Spanish roots (on her father's side) who was preparing her doctorate in Bordeaux, a city with the largest Sephardic community in France. Helene explained to me that she was focusing on the Arab culinary heritage of 13th and 14th century Andalusian Spain, and by translating original Arabic and Spanish recipes and manuscripts from this same era she was hoping to trace the ways in which Arab Muslims, Catholics, and Jews once shared recipes and cooking techniques, finding where they diverged, and how they transformed dishes into ones still prepared today. I was very curious about Hélène's area of study, as it overlapped with my own personal and professional interests in Judeo-Arabic and Sephardic cooking, and as a result the two of us became instant pen pals, writing back and forth about recipes, ingredients, and cooking techniques. After corresponding for about six months, Hélène decided to come to New York City to cook with me in the days leading up to Passover to learn some hands-on techniques of the Sephardic foods I was preparing for clients as well as for my own two Seders (which she also attended, along with her husband).
While in New York City, Hélène further related to me how a few years ago she learned from an uncle on her father's side that they once had Jewish family living in 14th century Spain, changed their name to Piñer (likely based upon their agricultural business in pine trees), a common practice forced upon Jews at this time. This knowledge of her own Jewish past sparked a personal interest in recipes that like she, had Jewish roots. Now the detective, Hélène began sifting through hundreds of recipes from this time period kept in the university's library in search of those that either mentioned explicitly that they were Jewish (which was rare), inferred a Jewish origin according to ingredients used or more interestingly left out due to the laws of kashrut (such as using beef in a dish normally using pork, or vegetables like eggplant to replace meat all together, or olive oil in place of butter in a dish that also contained meat), or used a particular technique (such as cooking a covered, single-pot dish for a long time in a low heat) indicating Shabbat.
During her visit, Hélène and I decided to recreate one particular recipe that she had translated from Arabic into French. The recipe was very general, written more like a long paragraph, using vague words like "spices" and "aromatics" in the ingredients list. Hélène explained that in her research she noticed that recipes from southern Spain and North Africa frequently used cinnamon, ground ginger, black pepper, and cumin, while aromatics likely referred to fresh coriander leaves (parsley was a later addition used mostly by Christians in places like Italy), bay leaves, onion juice, fresh mint, pine nuts, rosewater, and the leaves, skin, and pulp of an etrog — a Biblical fruit in the citrus family resembling a large bumpy lemon (something still used symbolically during the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, an agricultural festival marking the end of the wheat harvest in the Land of Israel).
What fascinated me most was when Hélène explained that while Jews who remained in Southern Spain were forced to alter their dishes and ways of cooking so as to hide from the authorities of the Inquisition, those who fled to nearby Morocco were able to continue their original cooking techniques because they were protected (which ultimately preserved these recipes in exile). By examining traditional Moroccan recipes that continue to be prepared today by Sephardic Jews in the diaspora (outside of Spain), we can better learn about how these dishes were originally prepared then (before Jews, and ultimately Muslims, were forced to convert or leave).
The following is the recipe from which Hélène and I based our own creation. For those of you who know Arabic, you will see the word Yehudiy'yeh in its title (the second word reading from right to left), which describes this style of dish as "Jewish":
Plato Judío Relleno Oculto
(Jewish Style Layered & Stuffed Omelet Cake with "Hidden" Meatballs)
Yield: Serves 10 / Makes one 10-inch pie
For Ground Meat Layer:
1¼ pounds ground beef
¼ cup coarsely chopped fresh coriander leaves
½ cup coarsely grated (not chopped) yellow or white onions
2 teaspoons rosewater
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons cold water
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
1¼ teaspoons kosher salt (if using kosher meat use only ¼ to ½ teaspoon)
¼ teaspoon coarsely ground fresh black pepper
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for frying)
2 bay leaves
For Meatball Layer:
1¼ pounds ground beef
¼ cup finely chopped fresh coriander leaves
½ cup coarsely grated (not chopped) yellow or white onions
2 teaspoons rosewater
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons cold water
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon kosher salt (if using kosher meat use only ¼ to ½ teaspoon)
¼ teaspoon coarsely ground fresh black pepper
¼ cup matzah cake meal (for rolling meatballs before frying)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for frying)
For Omelet Layer #1:
5 large eggs, lightly beaten
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons reserved oil from fried meatballs (or use extra virgin olive oil), for frying
For Omelet Layer #2:
5 large eggs, lightly beaten
For Topmost Egg Layer:
1 dozen large eggs, lightly beaten
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon rosewater
For Serving:
Coarsely chopped fresh mint leaves
Toasted pine nuts and pistachios, coarsely chopped
Ground cinnamon
Prepare the Ground Meat Layer:
1. Combine all ground meat ingredients (except the bay leaves and oil) in a medium mixing bowl, squeezing together with your hands until smooth and soft.
2. Heat the 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet (preferably nonstick) over high heat for 1 minute. Add the bay leaves and fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the ground meat in small amounts, breaking it up with the edge of the spoon so that meat cooks evenly and without large clumps. Cook until brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Pour into a bowl and set aside to cool. Clean and dry the same skillet to use for the meatballs.
Prepare the Meatballs Layer:
4. Combine all meatball ingredients (except the matzah cake flour and oil) in a mixing bowl, squeezing together with your hands until smooth and soft.
5. Scoop out 1 level tablespoon of the meat mixture and roll it into a smooth, even ball (you can lightly wet your palms with cold water to prevent balls from sticking to your hands). Place the ball onto a large tray or platter, and continue in this manner until all of the meat mixture has been used up.
6. Place the tray of meatballs and a small bowl of the matzah cake flour before you, just to the side of the stove where you will be frying. Warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet (preferably non-stick) over high heat for 1 minute, then roll a meatball in the matzah cake flour and gently place it into the hot oil. Fill the skillet with several meatballs and fry each one until dark brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. As each meatball is browned, place it onto a separate tray or platter until all the meatballs have been fried. Being careful not to splatter and burn yourself, pour the hot oil into a ceramic or heatproof glass bowl and set aside to reuse for the omelets.
Prepare Omelet Layer #1:
7. Combine all the ingredients (except the oil) for the first omelet in a medium bowl.
8. Warm 2 tablespoons of the reserved oil from the meatballs (or fresh extra virgin olive oil if you prefer) in a nonstick 10-inch skillet over high heat. Pour the egg mixture into the hot skillet and fry until firm on top and slightly curled along the edges, 3 to 5 minutes. Turn off heat and using a spatula, gently slide the omelet out onto a dinner plate or platter and set aside until needed. (Keep the oil remaining in the skillet to be used for the second omelet.)
Prepare Omelet Layer #2:
9. Reheat the pan with whatever oil remaining in it over a high heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Pour the 5 beaten eggs for this second omelet into the hot skillet and cook until firm on top and slightly curled along the edges, 3 to 5 minutes (like the first one). Turn off the heat, and leave this omelet in the skillet to serve as the bottom layer.
Prepare Topmost Egg Layer:
10. Combine all the ingredients for the topmost egg layer in a medium bowl and set aside.
Assemble the Pie Layers:
11. Pour cooked ground meat evenly over the omelet remaining in the bottom
of the skillet.
12. Gently slide Omelet Layer #1 (that you have sitting on a plate on the side)
on top of this ground meat layer.
13. Arrange each meatball on top of this second omelet layer so that the omelet
is evenly covered (it is okay if there are spaces between the meatballs).
14. Pour the Topmost Egg Layer mixture evenly over the top of the meatballs
to serve as the final layer of the pie (meatballs will be poking out and visible).
Cover skillet tightly and steam over low heat until eggs on top have solidified
and fused with meatballs and rest of cake, about 30 minutes.
Serve Cake:
15. Cool cake 20 to 30 minutes, then run a thin plastic spatula around the edges to dislodge it from the skillet. Place a round platter or plate (larger than the skillet itself) on top of the skillet and quickly flip skillet over so that the meatballs become the base of the layer cake and the omelet becomes the top.
16. Sprinkle the top of the cake with the chopped mint leaves and toasted nuts and serve warm or room temperature cut into wedges.
(God Willing, He Will Come.)
Nargesi: A pie in love with itself.
The name Nargesi comes from the Farsi word (Narges) for the Narcissus plant or daffodil, a sunny springtime flower (with either bright yellow petals and a deep orange center, or bright white petals with a deep yellow center) that has come to symbolize rebirth and renewal. This river bank flower is named after the Greek God Narcissus known for his extraordinary beauty, who subsequently drowned while admiring his reflection in a pool of water. Over time the term "narcissist" has come to define someone consumed with his or her own physical appearance or ego.
In my research on this dish I came across photos where instead of the eggs being scrambled with greens and herbs (as done in this recipe), the eggs were cracked open and poached directly on top of a bed of sauteed greens and onions, which visually resembles the Narges flower over leaves. I learned this unusual recipe from my friend Simona Shokrian, whose family would serve this for Passover. The resulting dish is more like a hearty frittata, mixed with herbs, spinach, and tiny meatballs, that you cut into wedges like a pie. Naima Abrishami suggests to sprinkle with lemou Omani (crushed Persian dried limes) to add a slight tangy flavor before serving.
Nargesi (Persian Egg "Pie" with Leeks, Spinach, Turmeric, and Tiny Meatballs)
For Meatballs:
1 large (1/2 pound) white onion, pureed in food processor (should have about 1 cup)
1 pound ground turkey (dark meat better since it has some fat) or beef
For Nargesi:
2 tablespoons grape seed, safflower, or vegetable oil
1½ cups coarsely chopped yellow or white onions (about 1 large)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon ground white or freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon turmeric
2 teaspoons ground cumin (optional)
1 cup finely chopped flat leaf parsley leaves
1 cup finely chopped coriander leaves or 1/3 cup tarragon leaves
½ cup finely chopped dill leaves
4 ounces coarsely baby spinach leaves (about 7 loose cups)
2 cups coarsely chopped leeks (use dark green and white parts only) rinsed in cold water and drained, or 1 cup coarsely chopped chives
¾ cup hot water
6 large eggs, lightly beaten
For Serving (optional):
2 tablespoons ground or crushed lemou Omani (dried Persian limes)
or 1 to 2 whole lemou Omani, ground in food processor
1. Drain the excess liquid from the puréed onions and mix with the ground meat in a medium bowl.
2. Heat a large 5- or 6- quart pot with oil over high heat for 1 minute. (Note: Your pot should be about 9 or 10 inches wide, but no more or the final pie will be too thin!) Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and transparent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the salt, pepper, turmeric, and cumin (if desired) and mix well. Cook 1 minute.
4. Reduce to a medium-low heat. Wet your hands lightly with cold water (to prevent sticking) and taking only 11/2 teaspoons of the meat mixture, form it into a small, smooth meatball the size of a large cherry. (Meat will be very soft and wet, so be gentle.) Drop the meatball into the pot and continue until all of the meat mixture has been used up. Cover pot and steam until solid and cooked through, about 20 minutes.
5. Drop in the parsley, coriander (or tarragon), dill, spinach, and leeks (or chives) and cover.
Steam until the herbs and spinach have wilted and softened, 10 minutes.
6. Pour the hot water over the top and mix gently so as not to break meatballs. Bring to a boil over high heat, then cover, reduce to a medium heat, and cook for 15 minutes. Uncover and cool to room temperature, about 20 minutes. (Eggs will cook too quickly if added to mixture when very hot.)
7. Once nargasi has cooled, re-warm over medium-low heat for 2 minutes. Gradually pour in the beaten eggs while gently mixing with a spoon to distribute evenly. Partially cover and steam over lowest setting until eggs have solidified but are still soft and slightly wet in the center, 35 to 40 minutes.
8. Score and scoop out large pieces of the nargasi and arrange in layers onto a serving platter or plate. Serve warm with lemou Omani on the side for individuals to sprinkle on top of each serving, as desired.
"A Feast of History: The drama of Passover through the ages"
In reading Chaim Raphael's book, A FEAST OF HISTORY: The drama of Passover through the ages, I came across the following description of the Seder ceremony, which I think sums up its role as a common (yet important) Jewish experience:
"The Seder has a unique quality, however, in that it is a ceremony which brings together — and always has throughout history — all kinds of people of Jewish origin, no matter what weight they normally attach to this in terms of belief, practice, political philosophy, social interests or family loyalties. Among our profusion of skeptical Jews … there are not many who will refuse to attend the Seder 'on principle' — as they might other Jewish observances. On the surface, nothing is committed by attendance."
— Chaim Raphael
(Excerpted from: A FEAST OF HISTORY: The drama of Passover through the ages (with a new translation of the Haggadah for use at the Seder). Steimatzky's Agency, Ltd. together with Weidenfeld Nicolson, London, 1972, pages 17-18.)
Have a good Seder everyone!
Is Shmura Matzah Healthier?
Every year rabbis in certain regions of the country and the world spend countless hours watching and examining designated wheat fields for the sole purpose of producing Pesach flour to make Shmura ("watched" or "guarded") Matzah for Seder ceremonial use. While the intent for checking these fields is to insure that no moisture has contaminated the wheat (which could lead to fermentation and make it chametz or unkosher for Pesach), there may be the indirect benefit of creating a better quality, better tasting, and even healthier wheat flour. Could farmers learn from these rabbis about the best ways to take care of their fields? Check out this very interesting article yesterday and you will learn some interesting things as well.
Rice and beans for Ashkenazim on Passover? You could be lucky too.
While many Ashkenazim (Germanic or Eastern European Jews) have long considered Sephardim (Spanish/Mediterranean Jews) or Mizrahim (Middle Eastern Jews) lucky for being able to consume rice on Passover, this staple grain may soon be accepted for them as well. As the American diet continues to change (where individuals can choose to be gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, or vegetarian) there has also been an ongoing debate in the Ashkenazi community about whether to start accepting kitniyot into the weekly Passover diet. Kitniyot (from the Hebrew word for "little things") is a general category for such foods as legumes, pulses, corn, soybeans, peas, poppy seeds, and even rice, that like chametz (cereal grains such as wheat, or processed foods containing cereal grains such as cake or pasta) have been forbidden by Ashkenazi rabbis for centuries. (While many in the Sephardic world do consume kitniyot, it really varies region to region, such as Moroccans who generally do not consume rice, but may have chickpeas and fresh green beans). Because of today's stricter labeling and processing requirements, it's difficult to defend the tradition based on the possibility that a food product could have been contaminated, and the rule against kitniyot is not written in the Torah.
While some are starting to change by embracing rice and beans during Passover, many still prefer sticking to what they were brought up with. (It's hard to change tradition!)
Here are some interesting and recent articles about the topic,
and the changes that some rabbis in the conservative movements are making.
And another regarding the legality of quinoa.
Eight Charosets with a Different Story
My Syrian dried apricot charoset (listed as #5) has been featured with several other interesting charosets on KosherLikeMe in a post entitled,"8 Charoset Recipes Sure to Spark Chatter at your Passover Seders." Check out this delicious article, and let me know what type of charoset you plan to make this coming holiday!
Modern Matzah with Old Fashioned Attitude: "Would it kill you to try something new?"
A year ago I received an email from Kevin Rodriguez, asking me if I could teach him how to make matzah. He had read about my "Lotsa Matzah" class at the JCC, and had a particular passion for anything matzah. The other day (just one Passover later) I received an email update from Kevin with the exciting news that he and his old summer camp friend, Ashley Albert, had since embarked upon a ragtag "Matzoventure" (as he called it) and were producing their first limited batch of matzah for this upcoming Passover. (I'm hoping to taste some samples very soon…)
Under the title of, "The Matzo Project," these "guilt-free" matzahs will become available (just Salted flavor for now) starting this Friday, April 15th in five specialty stores in New York City: Greene Grape Shelsky's, Stinky Bklyn (Chelsea), Peck's, and Farmigo, and when they're gone, well, they're gone. (Kevin told me that not even their parents are getting a box this Passover!)
There are three flavors of matzah at the moment:
Salted, Cinnamon Sugared, and Everything (plus Two Other Things), and each box promises to bring "surprisingly delicious matzo" (without the guilt, for once, suffering optional).
You can also pick up a jar of their Chocolate Matzo Butter Crunch, available in 3 flavors:
Milk Chocolate Pecan, Dark Chocolate Almond, and Pecan Cinnamon Bun!
Oy, what are you waiting for —
would it kill you to try something — nu?
From Haman to Pharoah: Common symbolism in Purim and Passover.
The holiday of Purim has some parallels to Passover, and marks the beginning of the 30-day countdown to the Seder. In both cases we retell a time when the Jewish people faced near extermination and were saved. On Purim we read in the Book of Esther, how Haman (the evil vizier of King Ahasuerus) tried to annihilate the Jews and Queen Esther stepped in to save them. During Passover we retell the story of the Book of Exodus when Moses saved our ancestors from the evil Pharoah by bringing us out of Egypt.
Interestingly enough, the original date when Haman first cast his lot (to choose when to destroy the Jews) was the 13th of Nisan, while the 14th of Nisan (the first eve of Passover) was when Queen Esther called for the Jews of Susa to join her in a 3-day fast before appealing to the King to protect her people. (It was later that the fast dates were set to begin on the eve of Purim — the 13th of Adar.)
Food in many Eastern cultures, and especially in Judaism, plays an important role in commemorating particular moments in our history. By consuming matzah —
"the Bread of Affliction" — we relive the story of Passover by recalling when our ancestors fled through the desert without having enough time for the bread to rise. During Purim,
we destroy Haman's evil plan to kill all the Jews by eating stuffed pastries that symbolize his pocketful of lots (for selecting the date for annihilation), or money (to bribe the king). The most well known Purim pastries in the United States (brought over by German Jews) are called Hamantaschen, meaning, "Haman's pockets" in Yiddish/German, and while we often see them filled with either prune or apricot filling, the original pastries had poppy seeds, and were based upon popular German cookies called, Mohntaschen (meaning, "poppy seed pockets").
I decided to prepare Hamantaschen this year as a way to kick off my preparations for Passover, as well as teach my kids how to make them. To give a slight Middle Eastern flavor I added a few teaspoons of orange blossom water to the apricot jam, and I cooked down prunes with dates, cinnamon, and a little sugar for my own homemade prune butter (blending it until very smooth in the food processor). I don't have a cookie recipe of my own to share, but you can follow one of the hundreds of good ones out there, and try my idea for the fillings.
Chag Sameach!
Check out my sister's Purim story!
Free Syrian Pistachio Passover Macaroon Demo at the Broadway Panhandler this Saturday, March 19th!
Come on down this Saturday afternoon for a free demo and tasting of my Syrian Pistachio & Orange Blossom Water Passover Macaroons at the Broadway Panhandler before this legendary store closes its doors for good. (My girls Micah and Sacha will be assisting!)
I will also be selling and signing my cookbook, "A Fistful of Lentils: Syrian-Jewish Recipes From Grandma Fritzie's Kitchen."
The Broadway Panhandler
65 East 8th Street
Saturday, March 19th


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MVHS Lady Mariners JV Softball Team Take 2nd Place in "Monte Vista Dust Bowl Tournament" !
Mar 26, 2017 11:34PM
By Paul Spear
MVHS Lady Mariners JV Softball Team Take 2nd Place in "Monte Vista Dust Bowl Tournament"! After Losing to Sage Creek 15 - 8 they Rally and Defeat Monte Vista 18 - 8 to Take 2nd Place in Tournament.
The Junior Varsity Softball Team is lead by JV Head Coach Shirley Hermosillo. Shirley is returning to this coaching position after a 20-year hiatus. She is an Mar Vista High School Alumnus and played on their softball team. The JV team got off to a rough start in the Otay Tournament with some hard teams and stated the season winless at 0 - 4. Now they have their footing and practice under their belts, they fared well in the Monte Vista Dust Bowl tournament taking 2nd place by winning 5 out of their next six games
They started the Monte Vista Tournament with a 20 – 2 trouncing of Morse and followed that with a 22 2 win over Castle Park. La Jolla was next and didn't fare any better than the two previous opponents as the Lady Mariners defeated La Jolla 28 – 0. High Tech SD put up little resistance as they lost to Mar Vista 13 -1. Sage Creek brought the Lady Mariners back to earth and snapped the Lady Mariners 4 game winning streak with a 15 – 8 win over Mar Vista. The Lady Mariners got back to their winning ways beating Monte Vista 18 – 8 to take 2nd place in the tournament and improving their record to 5-5 for the season.
Up next for the Junior Varsity softballers is a game at home on Wednesday against Montgomery.
Thank you to MVHS Coach Tracy Garcia for her assistance with the article!
Below is the JV Schedule for the remainder of the season with the scores of their games played to date:


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The Cleveland Cavaliers are on the ropes after enduring two consecutive pummelings at the hands of the Golden State Warriors. While the Cavs managed to turn things around after being put in a similarly hairy spot in 2016, they are now facing a much different Warriors team, one that's 14-0 in the postseason. Golden State is healthy. They also have Kevin Durant now. It doesn't look like these Warriors are going to lose.
But it's at least theoretically possible for the Cavaliers to win the 2017 NBA Finals. Here's how LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, Kevin Love, and their teammates could make it happen.
1. Invoke Article 25 of the NBA Constitution, which states that a finals opponent can be removed from a series if it's doing things like this:
2. Autograph a magical toaster. Klay Thompson did it in March, and the Warriors have gone 29-1 since then. Actually, the Cavs should autograph two magical toasters, and steal that toaster that Thompson autographed, and basically just corner the market on toasters.
3. Find the hypnotist who, using nothing more than the power of suggestion, has managed to convince Tristan Thompson that rebounds are made of lava. Ask her nicely to undo her work.
4. Fashion a large cardboard box into the shape of a bus. Following classic trompe l'oeil technique, draw windows and doors on the box with magic markers. In block lettering, write, "GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS TEAM BUS." Before Game 3, place the box outside the Warriors' hotel with a folding chair inside. When Kevin Durant sits down, sneak behind him and tie helium balloons to the back of the chair. Watch him float away.
5. Actress Tara Fitzgerald is fresh off a run as Lady MacBeth at the Globe Theatre in London. Hire her to reprise that role, but for an audience of one: Zaza Pachulia. With the manipulative Lady MacBeth in his ear, the Warriors' lumbering center will begin to foster delusions of grandeur. Once his ambition runs amok, Pachulia will shoot more than 50 times a game, taking the Warriors' more effective offensive weapons completely out of the picture.
6. Return the ancient amulet Kyrie Irving found while vacationing in Hawaii. It is not a play toy! It must be respected, for it unleashes a mysterious evil upon all those who touch it, and Kyrie Irving is shooting 34.8 percent from the field in the Finals.
7. Override ABC's feed and replace the live footage with recordings of games three through seven of the 2016 NBA Finals. Remember Speed? They did it in that movie, and it prevented Dennis Hopper from murdering Sandra Bullock. Anyway, this is probably a better bet than relying on big minutes from Richard Jefferson.


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Drugstore major Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) - Get Report is partnering with Alphabet (GOOG) - Get Report subsidiary Wing Aviation to test an on-demand drone delivery service.
In what the companies describe as an industry first, the pilot program plans to offer store-to-door delivery of the retailer's items in minutes.
Wing, the first drone operator certified as an air carrier by the Federal Aviation Administration, will begin offering drone delivery service to eligible residents of Christiansburg in western Virginia beginning next month, according to the release.
The Deerfield, Ill., drugstore chain said Christiansburg was chosen as the test market because Wing has been working closely with nearby Virginia Tech in Blacksburg to test drone delivery as part of the U.S. Department of Transportation's Integration Pilot Program.
"Although currently a pilot in one market, Walgreen's is in a unique position to capitalize on the convenience of drone delivery if and when it should expand, with approximately 78 percent of the U.S. population living within five miles of a Walgreen's-owned store," the companies said.
Initially, Walgreen's said, the program will offer customers more than 100 of the chain's most popular products, individually and in pre-selected packs. Prescription deliveries won't be available in the program, the company said.
The two companies in coming weeks will be reaching out to residents of Christiansburg to explain the program. And they'll be doing a drone-delivery demonstration later this month.
Shares of Walgreen's were up 0.4% to $54.64, while Google parent Alphabet's stock rose 0.6% to $1,239.28.


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Today we sit down with North Dakota author Rebekkah Ford. She is going to share a little bit about her work, herself and her inspiration. Please enjoy this installment of 20 Questions.
Q1) When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
When I was a child.
Q2) How long does it typically take you to write a book?
I have a job outside of home, so it usually takes me three months to write a book. However, my lastest novel, Ameerah, took me longer than the rest because of all the research that was involved in the story.
Q3) What is your work schedule like when you're writing?
I get up at 4:45 in the morning during the week and write before I go to the office and then in the evening I'll write some more. On the weekends I'll write as much as I can.
Q4) What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I eat strawberry licorice while I write.
Q5) How are your books published? (traditional, indie, etc.)
Indie. I could have gone traditional. I even had an agent interested in Beyond the Eyes (the first book in my YA Paranormal/Fantasy trilogy), but I had a confidence issue. I lacked it. I knew the only way to gain confidence was to take on the challenge of being my own publisher. If I could overcome those challenges on my own, I would earn the confidence I was never given as a child. So I turned the agent down and dove into the uncharted indie sea a virgin to the self-publishing world.
Q6) Where do you get your ideas for your books?
It's a combination of things. First, the way I grew up. When my parents were married, they were the directors of the UFO Investigator's League. They not only investigated extraterrestrial cases but also paranormal ones. My knowledge of the unknown and experiences has aided me in the creation of my stories. Second, ideas come to me out of nowhere. And third, I have a wild imagination and I'm always questioning things.
Q7) If you don't mind sharing, when did you write your first book and how old were you?
I was fourteen when I started writing a book but never finished it. The first book I finished that will never be published was 9 years ago.
Q8) What do you like to do when you're not writing?
I love to read, watch my favorite TV shows, go out to eat, have a couple drinks, take walks, go to antique stores, and have a deep, thought provoking conversation.
Q9) What is your favorite book?
Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice
Q10) What do your family and friends think of your writing?
They think it's cool.
Q11) What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
The characters have a mind of their own and some characters show up out of nowhere. I love when those things happen. It's fun.
Q12) What do you hate most about the writing process?
Writing the blurb.
Q13) How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
I've written six books. Five are published. My favorite is the most recent one I published last Jan—Ameerah.
Q14) Do you have any suggestions to help us become better writers? If so, what are they?
A lot of writers say this, and it's true. Read. Read. Read. Write. Write. Write. That's how an author becomes a better writer.
Q15) Do you get feedback from your readers much? How and what kinds of things do they say?
Yes, they've told me they felt like they were there with the characters—heard the music, smelled the cigarette smoke and alcohol—which is thrilling to me, because I always worry about being too descriptive in some scenes. They also told me the characters were well developed and some they grew attached to. Of course, I've had a few readers who didn't get into one of my books. Not everyone is going to like an author's story.
Q16) What is your preferred reading audience?
Readers who are into paranormal/fantasy books.
Q17) What do you think makes a good story?
Three-dimensional characters the reader can relate to, suspense, emotion, and a good plot.
Q18) As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
A writer or an actress or an archaeologist. I love history.
Q19) Where can we find your books?
You can find them on Amazon, B&N, Smashwords, and Kobo.
Q20) Will you give us an excerpt from one of your favorite works?
Of course. This excerpt is from my latest new release, Ameerah, which is a gritty and poignant paranormal thriller.
We entered an uncarpeted, vacant hallway that branched out on both ends. Several metal doors with bolts lined the walls. The blue paper booties I wore crinkled against the bottoms of my feet sliding across the shiny white floor.
"What did they give me?" I asked when we stepped into the restroom straight across from the room I was in.
Ann led me to a stall with no door, only an off-white partition that separated it from the other johns. "It was a barbiturate used to sedate patients. Sleep therapy is what some doctors dubbed it." She continued to talk while I emptied my bladder, keeping her word to give me as much privacy as she could.
Once I finished, I went to the sink and cringed at my reflection in the mirror. The right side of my face had a purple, yellowish bruise across my cheek, and the luster in my hazel eyes was gone. My complexion had a grayish cast. Whatever was injected into my body created a carbon copy of myself.
Ann handed me a washrag, and I realized there was no hot water when I went to dampened it. After I cleaned off my eyes and face, we headed down the north side of the hall. I listened to Ann tell me that most of the residents were in the common room, which explained the eerie silence.
"There you are," a manly nurse with thick forearms and a broad forehead said when we rounded the corner from another corridor. She was heading our way and seemed quite annoyed.
Ann stiffened but held her head high. "Ameerah caught my attention. She needed to use the lavatory, and now I'm taking her to the dining room for lunch."
"I realize you're new here, Ann," the other nurse said, "but we do not call patients by their first name in their presence. Each one has a number." She pointed at me. "This one is number sixty-four."
A laugh of disbelief escaped my lips. I couldn't help it. What type of place was this, sedating people, tying them to a bed, and calling them by numbers instead of their names? I found being called Sixty-four another check in the box under the dehumanization category. "Excuse me," I said when they looked at me, "I don't know what type of facility I'm in, but regardless, I have a name. It's Ameerah. To refer to me by a number is demonizing my identity, so I'd appreciate it if you would stick with my name instead."
The coarse nurse scowled. "We will do no such thing."
I made a face. "Why? What's the purpose in such a demoralizing act? And what the hell is this place?"
Still scowling the nurse snapped, "Watch your mouth."
"You're in an insane asylum," Ann said.
About Rebekkah Ford:
Rebekkah Ford grew up in a family that dealt with the paranormal world. Her parents Charlie and Geri Wilhelm were the directors of the UFO Investigator's League in Fairfield, Ohio. They also investigated ghost hauntings and Bigfoot sightings in addition to extraterrestrial cases. Growing up in this type of environment and having the passion for writing stories is what drove Rebekkah at an early age to write tales dealing with the paranormal world. Her fascination with the unknown is what led her to write the Beyond the Eyes trilogy, its companion Tangled Roots, and Ameerah.
Rebekkah resides in rural North Dakota, in a farming community of about 1,800 people and loves where she lives. She has an irreverent sense of humor, loves coffee, and yummy food makes her happy. She also loves books, history, antiques, animals, connecting with her fans and other authors, as well as watching her favorite TV shows.
Connect with Rebekkah:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6180865.Rebekkah_Ford
Website: Author Rebekkah Ford: http://rebekkahford.com/
Blog: http://themusingwriter.blogspot.com
Facebook Author Page: http://www.facebook.com/RebekkahFord2012
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RebekkahFord
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/rebekkahford/
Google Plus: https://plus.google.com/102242636096208798568/posts
Newsletter Link:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1Usdu2d
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Ameerah-Adult-Thriller-Rebekkah-Ford-ebook/dp/B01B5H110Y/
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/611006
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ameerah-rebekkah-ford/1123325240?ean=2940157883867
Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/ameerah-adult-thriller
Beyond the Eyes: FREE on the following sites!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/178oQFt
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Beyond-Eyes-Rebekkah-Ford-ebook/dp/B0088JF7HQ/
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/beyond-the-eyes-rebekkah-ford/1111446053?ean=2940045308588
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/168857
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/mt/book/beyond-the-eyes/id536586967?mt=11
Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/beyond-the-eyes
Dark Spirits:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1zETWLi
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dark-Spirits-Beyond-Eyes-Rebekkah-ebook/dp/B00BEKJ9VG/
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dark-spirits-rebekkah-ford/1114506937?ean=2940016397214
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/286383
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/mt/book/dark-spirits/id605970372?mt=11
Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/dark-spirits-1
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1CwairR
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Devils-Third-Beyond-Eyes-ebook/dp/B00GMVJ5CK/
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-devils-third-rebekkah-ford/1117443874?ean=2940045445818
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/378789
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/mt/book/the-devils-third/id761272986?mt=11
Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/the-devil-s-third
Tangled Roots:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1yRVJ0n
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tangled-Roots-Rebekkah-Ford-ebook/dp/B00NH84NNW/
Amazon Canada: http://www.amazon.ca/Tangled-Roots-Rebekkah-Ford-ebook/dp/B00NH84NNW/
Amazon Australia: http://www.amazon.com.au/Tangled-Roots-Rebekkah-Ford-ebook/dp/B00NH84NNW/
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/mt/book/tangled-roots/id921781226?mt=11
Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/tangled-roots-8
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/tangled-roots-rebekkah-ford/1120385680?ean=2940046186857
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/478589


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The Consumer Rights Act 2015 (the Act) came into force on 1 October. Whilst many commentators forecast the need to rewrite all contracts, in essence its impact should be all but transparent for fair traders. It is not specific to email marketing, but it is vital we understand its implications.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has recently published advice on how to manage the implications of the Act and here is a précis of the Short Guidance. This should not be taken as legal advice and it is essential that you study the CMA's guidance.
There are a number of key points in the Act that you need to understand.
As well as those written in a contract, terms can be verbal, either in a conversation or on a recorded message. So the requirements of the Act apply.
All contract wording must be clear, informative and be able to be understood by consumers. This last gives the level of judgement to be used. It is not enough merely to be clear.
There should be nothing hidden. What hidden means is not defined, but one would assume it includes an important clause being included in the chaff.
Any contract must be fair. If it is not, it is not binding. Fair is defined to an extent in the Act. A fairness test will judge if consumers have been put at a disadvantage compared to the company.
There are blacklisted terms which, if used will render the contract void. There is also a 'grey' list where, in essence, the company will have to justify their inclusion. There are minor exemptions.
The Act is hardly intrusive with regards to the wording of contracts. It is probably what most companies should be doing anyway. It might help you comply, or perhaps have a strong defence, if you avoid jargon, including legal terms. Latin is all very well, but few speak it nowadays.
Ensure that the important paragraphs and clauses are explained to the customer and that they fully understand their implications. This is specially important if they limit the extent of your liability or could impose financial sanctions on the customer.
Whilst the Act is not particularly intrusive with regards contracts, make sure yours comply.
Short Guidance:
Intermediate Guidance:
Detailed Guidance:


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Search the Community
Showing results for tags 'too fast'.
Found 2 results
First few shots perfect, then all shots run too fast
mem posted a topic in Rancilio Silvia ForumHi all, I found some a really nice blend from Coffee-compass (Gusto Gold) which I have been using for a couple of days now (I use them 4 days from Roasted) So.. 1) following my usual procedure i pulled a double shot and it came out perfectly 2) Once the boiler got back up to the correct temp (104) I pulled another double shot (following the exact same procedure- Same beans, grind, dose, tamp, temp etc) and it came out perfectly 3) all good right 4) Then i did step two again, but this time the shot run way too quickly, it wasn't even gloopy and looked like there wasnt any resistance in the puck. 5) I adjusted the grind a notch or two finer (in case the beans have been affected in some way by humidity), but it still ran super quick. I'm talking a double shot (30ml) in 10 seconds as opposed to 30ml in 27 seconds. After that I could not get it to run slow again. Is it because the machine got too hot possibly? Before pulling any shot, I leave my machine to pre-heat for 40min then run some water out. Then leave the PID to get to it back up to 104. I ran a shot this morning and it was better but a bit slow (although its better then it just pouring out.) and for this shot I did set the grind back to what it was in step 1 which was at 1E (Vario) I have an ESPRO VST calibrated tamper by the way so I'm being constant in that area and PID is managing the temp. Any ideas? Thanks
Shot is too fast
Crippy posted a topic in Rancilio Silvia ForumHi guys, im still really struggling to get close to a 1:2 ratio. Can't really understand where I'm going wrong. i measure 18g. Grind at a 4 setting on Sage pro grinder (have already moved the top burr to setting 4. break clumps up and put into portafilter. Tamp then put portafilter into machine and go. Closest I've got is 20secs at 36g out. Starts off at a slow speed as you would expect but then quickens up so fast. Will try and get a vid up shortly