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Tony's response to Livia's ironic observation was "Yeah, life's a bitch ain't it?"
"Well this bitch reckons it doesn't have to be!" was her reply, adding, cryptically "Not if you don't want it to."
"Meaning?" asked Tony suspiciously, slightly disengaging from his comforting embrace.
"Meaning both of us could get what we need without anyone getting hurt or needing to know."
"Explain!" said Tony, with a slight touch of menace "I don't get your drift."
"Well let me put it like this," said Livia, matter-of-factly. "You and Terry have the same DNA, you're identical. Guess what that means!"
Livia was aware that Tony and Marcia were not getting on well at all, mainly because Marcia wasn't getting pregnant either and had no intention of doing so. Livia was strongly attracted to Tony. After all, he looked just like her husband Terry... but boss Tony had more balls.
However, they were identical twins and Tony had always demonstrated extreme loyalty to his twin, possibly insurmountable. Subtlety and reasoning to be exercised if she had any serious designs on Tony.
Livia chose to comment, casually, how ironic it was that what was missing in both their lives was the same.
Livia was a nasty piece of work. Terry had married a beauty, but under the depth of her skin existed a cunning, manipulative creature who used everything and trick at her disposal to get what she wanted.
One day she created an opportunity to confide casually to Tony her fears that Terry might have become infertile, or, dare she say it, impotent... or maybe he'd just lost interest in her. She broke down weeping when she explained further how desperate she was to have more children with Terry.
Tony, who had never really liked Livia, comforted her nonetheless.
A result!
Livia made out to Terry, Tony, Marcia and anyone else who would listen that she was desperate for more children. She let it be known, casually, telling people discreetly, one at a time, as befits a secret, that Terry was responsible for the lack of fertility. Given Terry's character, this amplified the problem.
Terry still adored Livia, but sex between them became a relatively rare occurrence. Accusations and the continuing elephant in the room of infertility simply put him off sex.
But Terry had already proved his masculinity, via Luka. Maybe time to prove it again, some other way. Maybe.
Terry's marriage is not so smooth either. Livia decided she definitely wasn't having any more kids and, unbeknownst to Terry, she arranged her own contraception.
Livia liked sex, lots of it, but not the result of that sex, except for Luka who, despite being very difficult, remained the apple of her eye. Consistent with his Catholic upbringing, Terry wanted to have more children. Livia's failure to get pregnant again, when it would be appropriate and he had the money to support her and the children, made things a bit tense between them.
To add insult to injury, Livia blamed Terry.
The 'business' side goes from strength to strength. Although Tony's the undisputed boss, this is never openly articulated; it's set up as having joint leaders. Tony always looks out for Terry's back and there is critical mass in having the two of them. Nobody in the gang is ever completely sure, and so as a leadership, it's double-strength.
Homelife for the twins is slightly different. For Tony, Marcia is proving quite a difficult woman. She finds fault, firstly with Livia, then Terry and then Luka, who is a spoilt little shit.
Not smart when married to a gang boss.
In Catholic Italian families, even those who have grown up outside Italy, procreation in general and succession issues in particular are big things with the menfolk. Women's roles are simple… sex, running a good home and producing and raising kids... and preferably boys. The men attend to the business and the womenfolk are expected to attend to the needs of the men, whatsoever they may be. An historic role, albeit completely blown apart by modern generations of women.
But it was a role frozen in time in the Monelli households. The honour and standing of the family depended upon it.
For a couple of years Tony, Terry, Livia and baby Luka lived in a pretty shitty dump in the East End of London, with regular, if uncomfortable, visits from Marcia. When she was there, the atmosphere was brittle, so as soon as possible, Marcia and Tony found somewhere else. Despite the fact that there was no love lost between the two women, and each twin's questionable attitude to his brother's girl, they all got married at a joint ceremony with what was then their band of criminals as witnesses.
Both twins married, separate homes, thriving 'business', it all bode well.
Before either twin married, Livia became pregnant with what would be her only son Luka. Papa Monelli went crazy and kicked Terry out of the house on account of bringing shame to the whole family. When Terry went, naturally Tony followed.
Contacting some of the less than savoury characters from their schooldays, they found the only way to survive was by dishonest means. Theft, street gambling (rigged of course) and the narcotics business, as their network expanded. Drugs provided a significant jump in income. Tony rose quickly to the top, with Terry as his number two. Terry knew his place.
Neither twin liked the other's choice of 'life partner'. The falling in love thing, which naturally hit Tony first, was catalyst for a slight distancing between them. Not so much a wedge between them but someone else in the mix changing the dynamic. Shortly after Tony met Marcia, Terry discovered Livia.
Both women were pushy, attractive in a rather tarty, showy way and very, very determined. Each twin could see shortcomings in the other's choice, but was besotted with his own. Terry said little to Tony about Marcia, but Tony couldn't help trying to undermine Livia.
Neither wanted to share!
As teenagers, Tony and Terry had done a fair bit of horsing around with girls. They weren't tall, but they both had the young Italian good looks that were magnets for emerging young women. However, their father was quite a martinet and he was given plenty of reasons to wield the belt to his young twins when they stayed out late with 'cattive ragazze'.
Tony was Terry's ticket to ride, metaphorically and literally speaking, with these 'bad girls'. And their sharing instinct was acted out playing 'secret swapsies' with their girls to double their women count.
Until love crashed in.
From 'first peck', Tony Monelli was going to be leader. As his character built, his twin Terry naturally deferred to his brother. There was no doubt about their fraternal love, but in early arguments and rough and tumbles, and there were many, Tony almost always came out on top.
Nonetheless, they shared the limited things available to a poor Italian immigrant family, but inasmuch as Terry looked up to his twin, Tony felt a responsibility to look out for Terry. Tony was his protector.
The arrangement was great, until women came along. Hormones have a habit of messing things around.
Just 10 minutes between each identical twin being born can make a surprising difference. Firstly, neither twin forgets this and the microscopically older makes sure it's known. So equality starts unequal. This often sets the 'pecking order', which is mildly offset by nature's bond.
Then, possibly because of the historic significance of primogeniture, the pecking order is firmly set among family and those the twins subsequently meet. In the twin dynamic, outsiders defer to the older and from then on the implicit level of seniority is cemented.
The older gets stronger, the younger becomes slightly marginalised.
For example, the Monellis.
The thing with identical twins is one of sharing. At the point of conception, the twins share the most fundamental thing, their DNA. Because of this, there is an incredible natural bond and growing up together strengthens this. But their personalities don't always turn out exactly the same, and life experiences shape the dynamics of their relationship.
For Tony and Terry, 'twinliness' was a terrific advantage, especially for the profession they chose. Sharing DNA was a blessing in the early days. It provided a critical element of legal doubt when determining guilt.
But changing personalities change other things, like sharing.
Tony was particularly interested in a text from Terry's wife Livia, who, surprisingly, hadn't been injured because she had broken down at the very start of Terry's funeral and had asked to be taken out of the church for air. Her son Luka had taken her out. It hadn't seemed surprising to Tony back then, but now it did.
'Tony Darling. I've got to see you fast... without Terry - isn't he dead? Tell me where you are.'
'The fuck I will, bitch!' Tony thought. 'Why should I trust a cheating cow like you?'
Tony knew... because she'd cheated with him.
Tony didn't really care for all the platitudes he got. What interested him was who started asking questions about his whereabouts and how they wanted to come and see him. What and if they said anything about Terry, then that might give a clue, a gut feel for possible treachery.
'Where are you Tony? Are the cops there? Where's Terry holed up? How come he ain't dead?'
'I ask the fucking questions,' thought Tony.
Suspect number 1.
'What makes you think Terry's alive, Boss?.....'
'Funny to ask that first!' thought Tony. 'Maybe this one knows much more.'
Suspect number 2.
Tony reckoned on three different responses to his text and that's just about what he got.
'So glad your both safe and OK Tony/Terry. Still don't know how you ain't dead Terry but it's like the suns come out knowing you ain't. I'll find the bastard whatever I do. He's a dead man. Keep safe!' This was typical of a number of responses. This type of response and offers of help reassured Tony.
Two close henchmen went through a whole list of possible suspects, ruling nobody out, but one or two in. OKaaay!
Then two interrogative ones arrived... interesting!
Tony worked on instinct, his main modus operandi. That and assumption of guilt. He knew that everyone in his team were just as likely to try to get him as any rival 'institution'. It wasn't paranoia, it was fact.
He felt he would know from responses to his text who was hiding something and who was trying too hard. What he didn't consider, however, was, on the assumption that Terry was still alive, what role he might have played in the attack. This may have been his one Achilles heel.
But Terry was the one and only person Tony trusted.
Tony's text to his contacts read as follows:
'Tony and Terry announce 'bizniss as usual'. Evryone getting this text gotta reply an tell us what they know about who tried to rub us out. Pronto. Capeesh?'
Even if Terry had been in the coffin, Tony figured he'd have been blown to smithereens and nobody would have hung around to check. In that he was correct. By making out that his brother was still alive, it would strengthen Tony's power base. He reckoned he'd lit the blue touch paper. He was just waiting to see what sparks might fly, from where.
Needing to economise on texting to keep it under the blankets (literally), Tony decided he must contact his entire mailbox and put them to the test. At this point, he still had no definitive knowledge that Terry hadn't been in the exploding coffin, but, feeling that his twin was still alive, he also felt strongly that someone out there knew exactly where Terry was, and represented a threat. The call from Terry in the church was no electronic glitch. Someone knew. Someone had rigged the coffin bomb to Terry's phone.
It was inconceivable that the someone could be Terry himself!


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subset: commoncrawl


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Photo Blogging 101, Part 3
Beyond developing your photo blog and cultivating devoted followers, how can you take your phlog to the next level? Here's a few extra resources that can help you along the way.
Stay Organized
Using categories to divide your photographs by type is a great way to make it easier for visitors to navigate your site, especially as your portfolio of images continues to grow. For example, as you categorize photos as "Travel" or "Black and White," you can then add those category pages to your site's navigation bar. If you're using your photo blog to generate business as a photographer, this means that someone who's looking for some black and white images can easily take a look at your gallery of black and white photos. This guide explains how to add categories to your post, and you can follow these steps to add those category pages to your site's menu.
When displaying a series of photos, you'll see that there are a handful of options for inserting them into your post: slideshow, gallery, and individual images. If you're adding a large amount of photos to a single post, you may want to consider using the gallery option. Too many photos on the front page can cause a slow load time for visitors. By loading your posts as thumbnails first, visitors get the full effect of the breadth and variety of your photographs at a single glance. If you're looking for feedback, visitors can comment directly on your photo by clicking on the "Permalink" button in the gallery carousel.
When uploading multiple photos to your post, don't forget to use our Drag and Drop uploader so that you can upload multiple files at the same time. This will even allow you to drag a group of photos from your computer directly into the upload area.
Become a Curator
When working on a series, curate your content so that you can focus on the quality of your photos, not quantity. This means hand selecting the best photos in your series, rather than posting all of them at once to get as much out there as possible. When choosing images to include in your photo gallery, consider the following:
- The rule of thirds: When cropping your photos, try using the "rule of thirds" for more visually interesting photos. The rule of thirds is a compositional guideline that proposes photographs should be able to be divided into nine equal parts by two horizontal and two vertical lines. The main elements of the picture should fall along or at the intersections of these lines. In the photo to the right, the primary focus of the picture—the two red chairs—are positioned at the lower-right intersection of the grid and the horizon falls along the top vertical line.
- Stay sharp: When choosing a photo to include in your post, you'll want to prioritize images that are vibrant and clear. A photo that is blurry or faded isn't as captivating as a sharp, bold image.
- Don't be afraid to edit: Cropping your photos to maximize the focus or remove conflicting elements from the subject, playing with filters, and tweaking the colors (including white balance) on your photo can help to polish the edges on your favorite shot.
- Be aware of repetition: While you may have a ton of great photos in your series, do try to highlight images that are unique and distinct from each other. Four strong, individual photographs are more visually interesting than 10 slightly different stills.
There are a lot of great options out there for image editing tools. Since we're big fans of all things open source at WordPress.com and Automattic, you may be interested in GIMP and Seashore, two open source image editing programs. Our very own Sara Rosso has a great tutorial on getting started with GIMP and Bryan Villarin has some excellent tips on creating better photos without expensive equipment.
Don't forget to check out these other links for more information on photo blogging, licensing, and tools for your work:
- Creative Commons: Licensing information to protect your work.
- WordPress Mobile Apps: Phlog on the go with WordPress apps for your smart phone and tablet.
- WordPress.com Photography page: Find fellow photo bloggers via the WordPress.com Photography topic page.
- Daily Post Photo Challenge: Take the Friday Photo Challenge at The Daily Post.
- Flickr on WordPress.com: Learn how to integrate your Flickr photos into your WordPress.com site.
Now get to snapping!
Missed our previous posts? Take a gander at Part 1 and Part 2 here.
69 Comments
WWhat a good ideaaaa !!!
Thanks for the tips. This is really very helpful. 😉
Thank you for this pertinent info! There's so many options.. it's been so going. However my main goal is to get viewers for my hand tooled leather work which housed @ etsy. Larry
Excellent! TY! 😉
Thank you again for some great advice!
Thanks for your great posts. I just started a photoblog and have also gallery and slideshow. Now I shall have a look to categories.
great article…wil help 🙂
wht do you think of my photographs?
Thank you, Erica for your prompt and kind answer!
Wow! dat easy and dope…love it
one Word. GREAT.
Hi Erica, great posts about photo blogging, just finished reading them. I wanted to try photo blogging too, do you think it will be fine if I just add an additional page for that? I do not want to create another site just for photo blogging since it may cause me additional time. Will wait for your reply! thanks again!
I have a question. When uploading pictures, is there a way to upload multiple pictures to a blog in one step rather that click add and select only one at a time? I am of course not referring to the slideshow options. I am instead looking for a way to get regular full size pictures into my blog without son,any repeticious steps. Thanks
useful series, thanks!
Ohhhh, if only I'd read this post before putting up my Memorial Day photos. 🙂
That's a whole lot of good advice !!
Interesting … 🙂 Very nice photo.
Editing my work is the hardest task in the world… I will try to 'curate' as per your suggestions! Wish me luck.
thank you very much indeed ! :-))
Reblogged this on RranjanK's Blogs.
Excellent advice.. Thanks for share 🙂
This was the most useful article I have read from WordPress so far. Thank you for all the good advice. I already started fixing up my photo blog.
Reblogged this on spokentounge and commented:
love the effect
Loved these tips! Thanks a bunch!
Reblogged this on Getbeautifiedbymark's Blog and commented:
Great ideas for photo blogging you must try.
Awesome! Thanks!
Ive been trying to blog using pictures, but its finding these images.
Amazing post, we have a ton of photos that we can't wait to share with everyone here. Also, where is that street in the sample photo?
Very helpful – thank you.
Reblogged this on radianradit and commented:
good picture
So helpful, as we always expect from WordPress. Thanks very much.
great tips! I'll keep them in mind. Thanks much!
Snap #..Snap #..Snap # ( 😉 ).. let`s talk-more to the world with our picture.I like this great article and photo shoot, here we talk about art.thank you for good explaination. you are Rawk \m/
Reblogged this on Neil's space and commented:
great ideas for better photo's. I use my own shots in my blog, and this will really help.
That first photo is incredible, I can learn a lot from this.
Steven Wade, Edinburgh and Dundee
very helpful…thank you…
What I learned from Your Blog: To make photos is not a talent. is a gift from god, and You have it.
nice.. 🙂
Reblogged this on yrrahmillena.
This post is really nice, good tips about photo blogging.


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|Institution Type:
|Campus Setting:
|Great Lakes Small city
|Highest Degree Offered:
|Doctor's degree - professional practice
|Level of Institution:
|Four or more years
I would rate UWO a 4 out of 5. The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh provides big city education with a small town, homey feel. The professors that I have encountered…
i love it here now, the people are great. yeah sometimes you come around people that you don't like or get along with but that happens at every college.…
Oshkosh has a great campus that offers many options for students. It also has many groups, organizations and athletics for each any every students needs. I love the staff there…
Overall a decent school to get ones undergraduate degree. Dorm life and dining is disappointing, but the array of clubs and activities is almost unlimited, as well as access to…
UW Oshkosh is a decent size campus with a nice community of people. Despite being surrounded by bars everyone knows their limits and the atmosphere is nice.Read More
UWO feels like home It's a great school!!Read More
There is so much to do, both on and off campus, and it makes going to college here that much better. Between the activities that take place in Reeve Memorial Union, the activities that all of the clubs put together, being involved in a club, and the off campus activities that Oshkosh itself holds, going to school here is more than that: it's being a member of this campus and being a resident of Oshkosh. Here at Oshkosh, it is very difficult not to feel welcome.Read More
The campus size isn't too big, but you never run out of activities to do. There's something for everyone here.Read More
Most of the professors are really nice and helpful so I'm never uncomfortable going up to them to ask a question. The campus is so beautiful, I have studied outside between classes because it's so calm and relaxing. Also, there are so many clubs and organizations to join I have a hard time choosing which ones to join!Read More


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Events archive
ESC Annual Lecture
Dr Nathalie Tocci (Istituto Affari Internazionali, Italy)
17 May 2019 - 4:00pm to 6:00pm
Investcorp Lecture Theatre, St Antony's College, 62 Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6JF
Dr Nathalie Tocci (Istituto Affari Internazionali, Italy) delivers the 2019 European Studies Centre Annual Lecture, this year entitled: The Global Rationale for the European Project in the 21st... Read more
ESC Annual Lecture
Sigmar Gabriel, Germany's former Foreign Minister
31 May 2018 - 5:00pm to 6:45pm
The Nissan Lecture Theatre, St Antony's College, 62 Woodstock Road, Oxford
The European Studies Centre of St Antony's College, University of Oxford, invites you to attend the ESC Annual Lecture, this year entitled, "Europe in an increasingly uncomfortable world", given by... Read more
ESC Annual Lecture
Mark Mazower (Columbia University)
11 November 2016 - 5:00pm
ESC Annual Lecture
Mark Mazower (Columbia University)
26 February 2016 - 5:00pm
Maplethorpe Hall, St Hugh's College (entrance via Canterbury Road)
No registration is required but attendees are encouraged to arrive early as seating will be limited.
ESC Annual Lecture
Wolfgang Schäuble (German Federal Minister of Finance)
29 October 2012 - 5:00pm
Nissan Lecture Theatre, St Antony's College
ESC Annual Lecture
The Global Crisis of the Advanced Economies. Challenges for the Central Banks and for European Governance
Jean-Claude Trichet (Former President ECB, Honorary Governor Banque de France, President G30) Chris Patten (Chancellor, University of Oxford)
8 June 2012 - 6:00pm
European Studies Centre, Seminar Room, 70 Woodstock Road
ESC Annual Lecture
Joschka Fischer
25 February 2009 - 5:00pm
Seminar Room, European Studies Centre, 70 Woodstock Road
ESC Annual Lecture
José Manuel Barroso President of the European Commission
11 October 2007 - 6:00pm
Nissan Lecture Theatre, St. Antony's College, Oxford
Pre-registration is required Entry by ticket only Only a few places remain


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Dwayne Johnson continues the Hollywood tradition of surly, no-nonsense males getting stuck in stereotypically feminine roles. Otherwise known as, "This pool isn't going to pay for itself" films. See the glorious oddball poster in full wacky glory.
Here's the official synopsis:
A bad deed on the part of a tough minor-league hockey player (Johnson) results in an unusual sentence: He must serve one week as a real-life tooth fairy.
Also in this film are Ashley Judd, Julie Andrews and Billy Crystal. Let's just go ahead and assume Julie Andrews is the old Tooth Fairy or something — as long as she has Glinda wings, I'm okay with that part of this film. But seriously can we be done with The Game Plan and The Pacifier-style "I'm a macho man doing dainty things" movies?
The film will be out on January 22, 2010.
[via Worst Previews]


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By: hines55 | August 14, 2018
by Shantay Robinson
Female artists, regardless of race, are typically overlooked in Western art where the white male dominates. But it must be known that black female artists have been making a valuable imprint on the art world for generations. Black women artists participate in every medium and offer alternatives to the narratives created by the dominant culture. Offering narratives that include black pride dur...
Copyright © 2018 Kim Hines All Rights Reserved
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Hearst COO Steven Swartz Adds Presidency
Becomes heir apparent to CEO Bennack
Steven Swartz is one step closer to the CEO position of Hearst Corp. Today, Hearst announced that Swartz, 50, was adding the title of president to his current role of COO.
Hearst CEO Frank A. Bennack Jr. has reportedly been grooming Swartz as his heir. Bennack, 79, has been the company's CEO since 1979 (he briefly retired from 2002 to 2008) and is likely looking at another retirement in the not-so-distant future.
"We have a very bright and able chief operating officer," Bennack told The Financial Times in September. "Specific dates and movements to succession haven't been set or announced, but it's clear that they're not far into the future and that I'm working very hard with him."
Swartz joined Hearst in 2001 as evp of the newspaper division, later rising to president. Last year, he was promoted to COO of Hearst Corp. (His predecessor, Victor Ganzi, had unexpectedly stepped down as CEO and COO in 2008, leading Bennack to come out of retirement to take over both posts.)
Swartz also holds positions as a Hearst Corp. director, a trustee of the 13-member Hearst Family Trust, and a director of two Hearst Foundations. As CEO, he would add oversight of Hearst's myriad other properties, from the magazine division to TV stations to Web platforms.


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When teachers argue that school funding should not be cut, we are told by the Republicans in the legislature that there is not choice, there just is no money.
Well, that is not really true. Here is where reasonable people would get the revenue.
1. Repeal the September 2008 and February 2009 tax cuts. As a part of the Sept. 2008 and Feb. 2009 budget deals, the legislature created huge new corporate tax breaks. That right. To respond to a budget crisis, they gave new tax reductions to corporations. These take effect in 2011 and will make the budget crisis worse. What is to be done ? Repeal of tax credit sharing to raise 2009-10 revenues by $80 million, over time, the permanent tax cuts will cost the state $2.0 billion to $2.5 billion.
2. Reinstate 10 percent and 11 percent tax rates to 1991 levels, adjusted for inflation. The February tax increases disproportionately affect low- and middle-income taxpayers. Reinstatement of the top brackets would restore balance to the state's tax system and raise $4 billion to $6 billion in additional revenues.
3. Impose on oil severance tax. California is the only oil producing jurisdiction in the world without a severance tax. A tax of 9.9 percent, such as that proposed by the Governor, would raise upwards of $1 billion dollars.
We, the people, own this oil. It is under California soil. Oil companies only take it out. They should pay to take our oil out of the ground and to sell it to us. Even arch conservative Texas, Louisiana, and Alaska have oil severance taxes.


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The History of Innovation
Nu Skin's Tradition of Innovation
"Nu Skin is revolutionizing the health and beauty industries with products that offer comprehensive anti-aging solutions."
Joe Chang
Chief Scientific Officer
1984 – Use of natural humectants (hyaluronic acid and Sodium PCA) rather than Mineral Oil
Nu Skin® was one of the first to introduce a line of products featuring natural humectants (hyaluronic acid and Sodium PCA) to keep your skin hydrated and plump, instead of using inferior and harmful ingredients, such as mineral oil, that can clog your pores.
1996 – Pharmanex® Science & 6S Quality Process
With over 100 dedicated scientists on staff, and affiliations with 32 scientific institutions around the world, the Pharmanex® R&D engine produces products that enable us to set new industry standards. Pharmanex® created the 6S Quality Process to ensure that each product is manufactured according to the highest quality standards through all stages of product development. These six processes include selection, sourcing, structure, standardisation, safety and substantiation.
1998 – Nu Skin® acquires Pharmanex®
Recognising a huge opportunity to create a comprehensive approach to anti-ageing, Nu Skin® acquired Pharmanex®, and in the process, added many innovative nutritional supplements to its product portfolio.
1999 – AHA's
The Nu Skin 180°® Anti-Ageing System was the first of its kind when it was introduced in 1999. By accelerating the natural exfoliation process using alpha hydroxyacids, this system reverses the full range of ageing effects on your skin in as little as 7 days.
1999 – Pharmanex® launches three innovative new products
Using a unique pharmaceutical approach to natural health care, Pharmanex® launched three innovative products in 1999.
- Tegreen 97®: Contains tea catechins, which contribute to the protection of the skin from UV and pollution induced free radicals and helps to maintain intact cell DNA.
- CordyMax Cs-4®: Proven to be effective to support stamina and vitality, CordyMax Cs-4® provides the body with active Cordyceps sinensis mushroom constituents.
- BioGinkgo 27/7: Contains an exclusive preparation of Ginkgo biloba leaf extract, designed to support the maintenance of healthy cognitive performance and circulation associated with brain performance and reactivity.
2001 – Peptides
Although peptides were a relatively unknown at this time, Nu Skin® was one of the first to bring peptide technology to market with Tru Face® Line Corrector, which features pro-collagen peptides. Distributors were among the first to start educating consumers about peptides and the effects they can have on important action sites in the skin. Specifically, pro-collagen peptides are designed to send age-reversing signals to collagen-producing cells, promoting younger looking skin.
2001 – Colourless Carotenoids
Nu Skin® was one of the first to introduce a topical application of the powerful group of antioxidants, carotenoids, in a colourless form with the introduction of the Moisture Restore Day Protective Lotion. Until now, topical applications were bright orange in colour and were difficult for the consumer to use.
2003 – The Pharmanex® BioPhotonic Scanner and LifePak®
The combination of these products has proven to be truly revolutionary technology. Nu Skin® was the first and only company to offer consumers an exclusive way to measure how well their supplements are working. This changed the way consumers look at their health and quality of life.
2004 – Ethocyn®
A featured ingredient in Tru Face® Essence and later in Tru Face® Essence Ultra, Ethocyn® is clinically proven to actually increase the level of elastin fibres in your skin to that which is typically found in most 18-25 year-olds. This product delivers significant firming benefits to the appearance of the skin.
2005 – At-Home Galvanic Spa
Originally launched in 2001, the patented Nu Skin Galvanic Spa System™ was the first to give you spa results in the comfort of your home. In 2005, the Nu Skin Galvanic Spa System™ became a truly revolutionary technology when our Distributors started introducing it to consumers and letting them use it on half of their face. The result? A remarkable demonstration of how to look younger after only one 5-minute treatment.
2008 – Epoch Baobab Body Butter
As part of the Epoch range, this product has been designed in balance with nature and together with ethnobotanists.
Buying Epoch Baobab Body Butter is not only a gift for your skin; but it is also a great way to give back. For every Epoch Baobab Body Butter sold, US$0.25 is donated to the Nu Skin Force for Good Foundation for the Malawi Seeds of Hope project. This project focuses on planting and conserving trees, including baobab.
2009: Nu Skin Galvanic Spa System Facial Gels with ageLOC
Our exclusive ageLOC science has now been added to the Nu Skin Galvanic Spa System Facial Gels. Nu Skin's ageLOC science is a patented technology, which targets arSupermarkers, key groups of genes that influence how we seem to age. With ageLOC science, we can better understand the mechanisms of the visible signs of skin ageing and support a younger looking skin.
2010: ageLOC Transformation
As this system is part of our ageLOC range, it contains our precious ageLOC blend, targeting the sources of the visible signs of ageing. This skin care regimen consists of 4 powerful skin care products to reveal a younger looking skin. The ageLOC Future Serum is proven to provide amazing skin benefits in eight significant ways.
2011: ageLOC Galvanic Body Trio
After the ageLOC Edition Nu Skin Galvanic Spa System for facial skin and hair was launched, we started to think about a breakthrough product for the body as well. With the ageLOC Galvanic Body Trio, we made this happen. This is a body enhancement system based on our ageLOC science, which consists of two products and one device to minimise the appearance of an orange peel look and smooth and firm the skin on your body.
Over time, our bodies can become less effective in regulating our vitality. We can sometimes see a decrease in physical vigour, reduced mental acuity and a lack of sexual drive. To help you feel young again, Pharmanex developed R2, which will help you to start each day feeling Refreshed and Recharged.
Introducing TR90, a breakthrough weight management and body shaping system, to help your mind and body unify for a 'new' looking you. This programme consists of food supplements, a meal replacement bar and a programme guide to support you during and after your transformation.
2015: ageLOC Me
Because your style, your personality and your complexion are your unique characteristics, Nu Skin introduced ageLOC Me! A breakthrough anti-ageing solution that represents the next era of skin care – skin care customised for you, by you!
2017: ageLOC LumiSpa
Because cleansing is a key step in any skincare regimen, Nu Skin designed and launched ageLOC LumiSpa. The thoughtful design of ageLOC LumiSpa results in a quick two-minute thorough facial skin cleansing that leaves you feeling renewed and refreshed, revealing a radiant and youthful looking complexion.
"For more than 25 years, Nu Skin® has offered entrepreneurs the opportunity to start their own business selling exclusive and innovative anti-ageing products and that opportunity will be better than ever with our unique ageLOC® approach."
- Truman Hunt, Nu Skin CEO
"These are breakthrough products and tools that we have continually delivered to consumers. I think we should all be proud that we have this tradition of innovation. We are not a 'one-product' company. We don't just depend on one product for the business opportunities we create for our Distributors and we continued this tradition when we launched ageLOC®. As you learn more about ageLOC® science, hopefully you'll get as excited as I am, as this is a very significant breakthrough for the company…"
"...we are now at a point where we have been able to identify certain sets of genes in the body and in the skin that are related and relevant to ageing. We can go after these age-related super markers and balance them to their youthful patterns of activity."
- Joe Chang, Nu Skin CSO


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Langkawi: Malaysia's ecotourism hotspot with an eerie past
One of Malaysia's top beach and eco resorts has a pretty freaky back story, if you're the superstitious sort.
Located near the border of Thailand on the Andaman Sea, the main island (called Langkawi, as is the whole district of 99 islands) was supposedly cursed in 1819, when a beautiful woman named Mahsuri was executed for alleged adultery.
Seems her real "crime" was rejecting the advances of the village chieftain who ordered her death.
Right before she died, she hissed with her last breath: "There shall be no peace and prosperity on this island for seven generations."
Why only seven, when she could have cursed them for eternity?
Who knows? But two years later Langkawi fell to the invading Thais and many locals died of starvation.
Breaking the curse?
Remaining a bit of a backwater for more than a century thereafter, in the mid-1980s Langkawi was declared duty free by the then prime minister, Mahathir Mohamad, who laid out a plan to turn it into a tourist paradise.
Cheap booze and beautiful beaches?
You'd think Mahathir was setting the island up for tourist ruin like many other regional beauties before it. (Sorry Bali and Phuket, we mean you.)
Langkawi's growth has indeed been strong, with high-profile luxury resorts now dotting its sandy shores and the construction of an international airport in 2003 making it a holiday hotspot.
According to reports in June, the island is on track to meet its 2013 target of 3 million visitors.
But the UNESCO listing of Langkawi as a Geopark has kept huge plots of uninhabited land on the 475 square kilometer main island -- where all the infrastructure, hotels and restaurants are found -- from being taken over by developers.
Today Langkawi remains one of the world's most accessible ecotourism destinations.
During the span of a recent four-day visit this writer came across everything from great hornbills and monkeys to wild boars.
And that was before she even left the resort.
For suggestions on how to take in some of Langkawi's top natural offerings, read on.
Fertility-granting powers
On June 1, 2007, UNESCO declared Langkawi a World Geopark -- "a territory encompassing one or more sites of scientific importance, not only for geological reasons but also by virtue of its archeological, ecological or cultural value."
Though the entire archipelago of 99 islands, surrounding waters and marine ecosystems make up the Geopark, it's the protected "Geoforest" areas that really impress.
These are the 400-million-year-old Machinchang mountain ranges, the karst limestone formations of the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park and the Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park.
The latter is best known for the body of water at its center, the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden.
The tale goes that a goddess bore a child to an earthly prince, lost the child, buried it where the lake now stands and blessed the waters with fertility-granting powers. Bear that in mind before you dive in.
The best way to see the Machinchang range is via Langkawi's famed cable car, which takes passengers on a 2.2-kilometer-long ride almost to the top of Machinchang mountain.
At the top there's a 125-meter-long SkyBridge suspended 100 meters above ground (Panorama Langkawi, Burau Bay, +60 4 959 4225).
Wildlife in the mangroves
Mangrove tours can be one of the biggest let downs in travel.
You drift down a watery brown trail, eyes straining as you stare into the trees in search of wildlife as the sun beats down overhead.
At the end of it all, you scroll through your photos to find 20 shots of exposed tree roots and the odd blurry mudskipper.
No offense to mudskippers, but nobody travels thousands of kilometers to see them.
The same can't be said of a trip through the mangroves of the 100-square-kilometer Sungai Kilim Nature Park. Most visitors report seeing wildlife as diverse as snakes, sea otters, wild dogs, monkeys and eagles.
And yes, mudskippers.
Junglewalla, a well-regarded tour company led by a group of dedicated naturalists, offers a four-hour mangrove cruise that includes birdwatching, wildlife observation and cave visits.
Another reputed company is Dev's Adventure Tours, which has a five-hour tour of the mangroves by kayak for the truly ambitious.
More on CNN: Insider guide: Best of Langkawi
Langkawi island-hopping
One of the most popular things to do in Langkawi is join one of the dozens of half or full-day boat tours that show off the area's island and beach highlights, including Pulau Singa Besar, Pulau Beras Basah and Pulau Dayang Bunting.
Not a bad option -- they all offer incredible natural sights and wildlife -- but if you're willing to shell out some extra cash you may want to consider chartering a boat for the day.
Among the reputable boat charter companies running out of Langkawi are Crystal Yacht Holidays, Damai Indah, Blue Water Star Sailing and Stardust Yacht Charter. All offer itineraries ranging from short day trips of Langkawi's highlights to overnight tours of the islands and beyond.
Perks of booking a private cruise include tailoring the itinerary to personal interests (bird watching, beach bumming, snorkeling, etc) and being able to choose onboard meal menus.
At the end of the journey your memories might be foggy after too many visits to the open bar, but that's what cameras are for, right?
Diving in Pulau Payar
The protected Pulau Payar Marine Park is 30 kilometers south of the main island of Langkawi -- about a one-hour boat ride.
This uninhabited area is made up of four pretty little islands.
Under the surface are waters famed for a quality mix of black tip sharks, barracuda and colorful corals -- divers will be spoiled for choice.
Wreck divers will want to head east of Pulau Payar to Pulau Kaca, where a bunch of fishing boats have been sunk in the area to create artificial reefs.
For snorkellers, it often gets crowded on the main marine park beaches and offshore pontoon. Visibility is also hit and miss in these areas.
There's no accommodation on Pulau Payar due to its marine park status so most visitors stay on the main island of Langkawi and cruise in for the day. Tours can be booked directly through most Langkawi hotels.
For more on the top Pulau Payar dive sites check out Asiadivesite.com.
More on CNN: 10 best islands for a Malaysia holiday
CNN Travel's series often carries sponsorship originating from the countries and regions we profile. However, CNN retains full editorial control over all of its reports. Read the policy.


text: Merced Housing in Texas has great programs in regards to sheltering the poor. If I weren't sooooo over my head in debt, I'd certainly send some dollars their way. They also have a program to fund repairs to the homes of elderly folks (Serve Our Seniors) in San Antonio, TX. The SOS program has run out of moolah. If you can help, they need it. Thanks.


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Simplify PC lifecycle management with PC as a Service
Managing the day-to-day burden of PC lifecycle management often leaves IT departments little time to focus on innovation and strategic priorities that help drive business transformation.
Dell PC as a Service (PCaaS) simplifies PC lifecycle management. It combines hardware, software, lifecycle services and financing in one all-encompassing solution. All you pay is a single, predictable price per-seat-per-month through Dell Financial Services.**
And if you're wanting to truly transform your business, Dell Technologies Unified Workspace empowers you with intelligence, automation and visibility across the entire endpoint environment.
|What We Offer
What You Get
|PC as a Service for Business
|Customers who are looking to simplify PC lifecycle management for 1 – 299 units.
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As well as the benefits above:
As well as what you get above:
|Dell Technologies Unified Workspace
Reduce the daily burden and cost of PC lifecycle management with PCaaS.
Studies show PC as a Service helps reduce costs, shorten refresh cycles and drive IT transformation.
Customers talk about their experiences after adopting PCaaS to help manage the PC lifecycle needs.
Discover how you can reduce PC lifecycle service costs with Dell.
Calculate your PC lifecycle management savings with the Forrester tool.
Discover how PC as a Service can save your organization time and valuable IT resources.
ProSupport Plus with SupportAssist is the only available service for PCs that automates support to prevent issues before they occur and quickly resolve them when they do.
Deploy PCs with greater speed and less effort.
Accelerate your workforce transformation and transform the way you deploy, secure, manage and support your devices.
**Payment solutions provided and serviced by Dell Financial Services L.L.C. or its affiliate or designee ("DFS") for qualified customers. Offers may not be available or may vary in certain countries. Where available, offers may be changed without notice and are subject to product availability, credit approval, execution of documentation provided by and acceptable to DFS, and may be subject to minimum transaction size. Offers not available for personal, family or household use. PCaaS: At the end of the initial term customer may 1) extend original term or 2) return the equipment to DFS.


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Straight Shooters / Supportive Group
Fund: Trident Capital
Posted by ceobythebay on 2007-09-13
I am the CEO of a privately held company that has Trident as one of its largest investors. We have had a couple of false/slow starts to our business, but Trident has been a very supportive partner through multiple rounds with deal terms that reflect the value of the business and what we need to do to give value to the common.
John Moragne is on our Board and is a bright, thoughtful and constructive member of our team. He is good at elevating conversation forcing us to be strategic and helps to maintain a productive Board environment. Like everyone I have dealt with at Trident, he is busy but always there when we need him. He has helped me recruit team members, close acquisitions, recruit outside Board members etc. He has also had others at Trident help us in a variety of ways over time including Don Dixon (client reference), Woody Marshall (education on our some areas we were interested in growing), Howard Zeprun (advice on our re-financing - he is terrific as well as exposure to all of his other partners and staff. I've also enjoyed my interactions with Venetia and Peter in the past.
Given my experience, I don't understand posts that don't feel as though they get the support from Trident and John specifically. They and he are always there, but I do sometimes need to ask.PRIVATE: Members Only


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Good stuff. It's great that your kid is excited to get out there with you!
Sent from my iPad using AlpineZone mobile app
I finally made it down to Thunder Mountain this past weekend with my son. Saturday was a perfect day for riding. Cool temperatures and the recent rain made conditions prime for riding more amazing trails built by Gravity Logic. We started with a few runs down Blue Pulaski and The Gronk. Blue Pulaski is fun trail with a mix of flow and a little tech and The Gronk is their blue jump trail. My son is all about jumping, so The Gronk was his favorite trail. Here's a little video of me chasing him down the top part of The Gronk:
After that, we took a couple of runs down Sleeping Jake's and Trillium. Sleeping Jake's is very similar to Blue Pulaski, but Trillium was my favorite. Lots of roots and rock gardens interspersed with fast, flowy berms. After that, it was back to lapping The Gronk. We had a great day of riding. The folks at the resort are super nice and were very helpful with suggestions on which trails to ride. Riding season is quickly winding down. With the exception Highland, I think most places will be closed after Columbus Day. It's been a great season for riding and I hate to see it coming to an end. Good thing I have skiing to look forward to
Good stuff. It's great that your kid is excited to get out there with you!
Sent from my iPad using AlpineZone mobile app
Thanks. His addiction to it is nearly as great as mine. Although, his true love is still skiing. First thing he said when we got on the lift was, "This makes me want to go skiing."
Thunder mountain planning to stay open into November if the weather cooperates.
Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk
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The Amanin (singular, Amani), sometimes called Amanaman, were a primitive race from the planet Maridun. Amanin stood two to three meters tall, and had bright yellow and green skin, arms long enough to reach the ground, and very short legs. They were found in the galaxy at large as mercenaries, heavy laborers and wilderness scouts.
Biology and appearanceEdit
Amanin were a sentient planarian species. They were tall with wrinkled deep yellow skin at the front and a dark green rear hood that ran from the neck to their feet and tail. Their skin coloration helped them blend in with their forest and grassland environment as well as being a signal of the skin's poisonous nature. It secreted a poisonous slime that served to keep the skin moist as well as serving to deter predators on their homeworld.[3] The only creature from Maridun that was not discouraged by the slime was the Charnoq, which was consequently the only predator that the Amanin feared.[8] Due to the susceptibility of their skin to drying, the Amanin preferred to build their shelters in humid environments such as rain forests.[3]
They had small red eyes that were adapted to see well in Maridun's dim light and a small mouth that widened to engulf raw game and contained numerous sharp teeth and a long tongue. Like other worm species, Amanin expelled their biological wastes through their mouth (although when off world they tended to do this in private after they learned how it disturbed other species). Amanin also had a small nose that provided them with a keen sense of smell, such that they were said to be able to detect strangers from ten kilometers away.[3]
Their arms and fingers were long and thin, while their legs were comparatively short and thick with large feet. Males and females were virtually indistinguishable by other species. Although they appeared ungainly when walking, their large hands and feet were ideally suited for an arboreal lifestyle on their homeworld where they made their homes in the high treetops.[3]
While their walking speed was painfully slow, the Amanin's flexible body allowed them to curl themselves into a ball and roll at speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour across flat terrain.[8] In this form they could not perceive the world around them but were able to use the technique to hurtle past a target and uncoil to deliver an effective attack.[3]
Amanin had small vital organs spread throughout their body and employed a redundant organ systems that included multiple versions of major organs such as the heart, liver, and lungs. Their brain consisted of multiple nerve clusters spread throughout their body. These characteristics meant that an Amani could withstand devastating injuries and still survive—and, in theory, if one member was bisected, two identical Amanin would reform.[8]
Society and cultureEdit
On Maridun, Amanin lived in tribal groups led by lorekeepers. Their natural habitat was jungles and forests, where they lived primarily by hunting; these small forest were separated by open savanna land the Amanin called gruntak. When a forest was too crowded, Amanin would roll out onto the plains for another stand of trees, battling any other Amanin tribes who may already have been living there in a ritualistic battle called a takital.[3]
The Galactic Republic made contact with Maridun long before the rise of the Galactic Empire, though it was under the Empire that colonies were first officially established on the world. Before that, however, in 22 BBY, a colony of Lurmen attempted to establish themselves on Maridun. They were met with hostility from the Amanin, who attacked their ship and ruined its engines. The Amanin seemed to both hate and venerate the vessel, and the Lurmen leader, Tee Watt Kaa, decided to give it to them, by ejecting an escape pod containing all his people.[9]
Around 10 BBY, the Empire began mining operations on Maridun. The Imperials, corporate slave traders, and criminal interests began taking Amanin slaves offworld. During the Galactic Civil War, Maridun was occupied by Galactic Empire forces.[3] When Imperial forces commanded by General Ziering unwittingly crossed a border to sacred Amani battlegrounds, the local Amani tribe declared them to be participants in a Takital, a conflict that is known as the Battle of Maridun. A young officer called Lieutenant Janek Sunber distinguished himself during the conflict and eventually brokered an accord with the tribal lorekeeper.[10]
In the deal, all captives taken from other tribes during Takitals would be given to the Empire as slaves, and in return, Imperial forces would keep off the tribal lands. Similar agreements were subsequently struck with other tribal leaders, and as a result many Amani slaves were forced to work in the mines on Maridun or scattered throughout the galaxy as laborers for the Imperial machine.[3]
Amanin in the galaxyEdit
While not a spacefaring race, the Amanin were able to gain passage offworld during the Galactic Civil War as the Galactic Empire began a slaving agreement with Amanin leaders. Soon, Amanin were spread throughout the galaxy as slave laborers, mercenaries, or wilderness scouts. One such Amani, known only as "Amanaman," was part of Jabba Desilijic Tiure's court.[4] There was also an Amani among Kavil's Corsairs.[11] As each new generation became more integrated in galactic society, they left some of their base tribal ways behind and came to find acceptance in the galaxy. While Force-sensitive Amanin were recorded as becoming Force Adepts, no records indicate their presence in either the Jedi Order or the Sith.[1]
- Star Wars: Jango Fett
- The Clone Wars: Neighbors (Appears in flashback(s))
- Coruscant Nights II: Street of Shadows
- Coruscant Nights III: Patterns of Force (Mentioned only)
- The Last Jedi
- A Hunter's Fate: Greedo's Tale webstrip
- "The Emperor's Court"—Star Wars Tales 14 (Non-canonical appearance)
- Star Wars: Empire: To the Last Man
- Empire 37: The Wrong Side of the War, Part 2 (Mentioned only)
- Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi (First appearance)
- "Lapti Nek": The Music Video from Jabba's Palace
- Legacy 1: Prisoner of the Floating World, Part 1
Notes and referencesEdit
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 Ultimate Alien Anthology
- ↑ The Essential Guide to Alien Species
- ↑ 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 Galaxy Guide 12: Aliens — Enemies and Allies
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi
- ↑ The Last Jedi
- ↑ Coruscant Nights II: Street of Shadows
- ↑ Empire 18: To the Last Man, Part 3
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 The New Essential Guide to Alien Species
- ↑ The Clone Wars: Neighbors
- ↑ Star Wars: Empire: To the Last Man
- ↑ Handbook 1: X-Wing Rogue Squadron


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Join Shane as he reviews one heck of an obscure and mostly unknown Japanese arcade game. Beating Nintendo to the punch 5 years early, Namco released a 2D fighter that looks and feels like a 2D Super Smash Bros. Why is it so unknown? Why did it never see a console release? Is Super Smash Bros. a rip-off?
Find out in this episode of Rerez!
Be sure to follow me on Twitter @RerezTV to watch me take stupid pictures of myself in front of a green screen.


text:
This Framed Canvas Painting Boho Fairy Long is an attractive feature to your home decor.
Beautifully handpainted canvas painting in a shadow box frame. Great natural decorating for your home.
Dimensions: 50 x 150 CM
Colour: Colourful
Improve the style of your home with our Flower Canvas Painting Wall Art Decoration. Beautiful nature inspired canvas paintings for your home have the ability to add interest to a space in such a simple way.
Shipping and Delivery: Australia Wide Delivery
Shipping & Delivery: We offer flat rate shipping - $9.95 QLD/NSW/VIC/ACT $12.95 SA $14.95 TAS $14.95 WA* $29.95 NT* Some bulky, furniture items & sculptures excluded. *All orders to remote regional locations, outback WA or NT will be at our discretion. Please see full terms.
Payment Options: We accept Visa, Mastercard, Paypal & Direct Deposit. All payments are processed using the latest SSL encryption technology.
Refund & Return Policy: Please contact us & return the item within 7 days for a exchange, credit or refund. No change of mind refunds on custom orders.


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Kristen Stewart Pictures in NYC After the Costume Institute Ball With Gwyneth Paltrow, Beyonce Knowles, Michelle Williams
Kristen Stewart Goes Casual to Hit the Met Ball Afterparty With Diane, Beyoncé, Michelle, and More
Kristen Stewart Goes Casual to Hit the Met Ball Afterparty With Diane, Beyoncé, Michelle, and More
The lovely ladies who dressed up for last night's Costume Institute Gala kept the good times rolling at the afterparty held at the Standard Hotel. Diane Kruger ditched the high-slitted Jason Wu gown she wore on the red carpet for a short black number from the designer, though she kept her best accessory, boyfriend Joshua Jackson, close. Gwyneth Paltrow continued the festivities in her backless Stella McCartney, which earned her a place on the best dressed of the Met Ball list. She had her good pals Jay-Z and Beyoncé Knowles, in Pucci, along for the fun, while a Miu Miu-clad Michelle Williams made the rounds with a guy friend. Kristen Stewart was a belle of the ball in a special Proenza Schouler gown, and she had one of the label's designers, Lazaro Hernandez, as her date to the late bash with her real-life love, Robert Pattinson, abroad showing off Water For Elephants in Europe.


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Beagleboard:Super Nintendo (SNES) on Beagle Bone Black
- 1 Super Nintendo (SNES) on Beagle Bone Black
- 2 Update for 0.5 version
Super Nintendo (SNES) on Beagle Bone Black
BeagleSNES was created by Andrew Henderson and allows you to play SNES ROM games from a microSD card. In the following wiki, we will show you one method to get the SNES working on your BBB. All information was derived from the BeagleSNES guideand can be referred to for further information.
Items Required:
Mini-USB Data Cable
SNES Tomee Controller
5VDC Power Supply
At least a 4GB microSD Card
A USB microSD Adapter
HDMI to Micro HDMI
HDMI Enabled Monitor/TV or Alternate HDMI Adapters.
A copy of the software ROMS (.smc) that you wish to use with BeagleSNES, which are not provided by BeagleSNES, beagleboard.org, or Circuitco.
Downloading the microSD card Image
In this tutorial, the image that we will download contains the complete BeagleSNES system and can be booted upon completion.
1. Download the BeagleSNES microSD card image by clicking here.
2. Uncompress the image using 7zip.
3. Insert the microSD card into your USB microSD adapter. Plug it into your computer.
4. Using a disk imager such as, Win32 Disk Imager, write the image file onto your microSD.
Important: Make sure you write onto the correct Device!
5. Once it is finished, you can boot beagleSNES from your BBB! In the next steps, we will see how you can insert ROMS into the beagleSNES system.
Installing your ROMS and Screenshot/Pictures
1. Insert your freshly imaged microSD card into the usb microSD adapter and plug it into your BBB. Connect your BBB to your computer using a mini USB data cable and wait for it to load on your computer.
2. On your host computer, make a new folder called, "ROMS." Then, transfer all the files (ROMS and screenshots) that you want to mount to the beagleSNES system into the "ROMS" folder. When you have finished transferring all the files, copy that folder into your BBB. (i.e. My Computer > BEAGLEBONE(X:))
3. Using a terminal emulator such as PuTTy, we will serial connect into the BBB and transfer the files directly into the microSD card. Once PuTTy is configured, log in as: root.
4. We will be using the following sub-directories to transfer files. In the following, I will use rom1.smc and rom1picture.png as examples:
ls /media/BEAGLEBONE/ROMS // The two files I will be transferring into the beagleSNES rom1.smc rom1picture.png ls /media/rootfs/home/ubuntu/beaglesnes/ // This is the location where we will transfer our roms and screenshots rom boxes
- The reason we are using the BBB is because you are able to see all partitions of the beagleSNES system since it is based off Linux, unlike a computer running off Windows.
5. We will now transfer all the files into the appropriate folders so we can play them on our system. Using your actual rom and picture names, transfer the data through these commands: (I will use rom1.smc and rom1picture.png in this example)
For ROMS: $cp /media/BEAGLEBONE/ROMS/rom1.smc /media/rootfs/home/ubuntu/beaglesnes/rom
For Screenshots/Pictures: $cp /media/BEAGLEBONE/ROMS/rom1picture.png /media/rootfs/home/ubuntu/beaglesnes/boxes
6. If you wish, go into the beaglesnes directories to check that you successfully transferred all the files.
Configuring your ROMS
1. In order to configure the ROMS to your beagleSNES, we will have to make changes in the games.cfg file. Browse to that folder through these commands:
cd /media/rootfs/home/ubuntu/beaglesnes
2. We will now open games.cfg and make changes that apply to the game. Type the following into your terminal:
nano games.cfg
3. I will write an example of what you may see and what you have to replace. I will insert comments using "//".
10 // The number of games you want to see in the title screen Rom1 // Name of the game rom1.smc // the file name of the ROM that we inserted into the beagleSNES rom1picture.png // the screenshot that will be seen in the title page Description of the // Description or summary of the game game goes here. You need to use all five lines, or you can leave blank lines. 1992 // Year that the game came out Action // Genre of the game .... // Fill in the information for the rest of the ROMS.
4. Press ctrl+x to exit 'nano' and say "yes" to save all changes.
5. You have now successfully configured all your ROMS. Unplug both the mini USB data cable and microSD USB adapter and now we will set up the hardware for beagleSNES!
Playing beagleSNES on your Monitor
1. Plug in your microSD card to your BBB.
2. Plug in your USB Tomee Controller to your BBB.
3. Plug in your BBB to your TV/Monitor using HDMI or through an alternate adapter.
4. While holding down the boot button of your BBB, plug in the 5VDC power and wait for beagleSNES to boot up.
5. Once it is done loading, you will see all of the ROM info that you edited in the games.cfg file and you are set to go!
Update for 0.5 version
Installing your ROMS and Screenshot/Pictures
The freshly-imaged microSD card now has two partitions on it: a "boot" partition and a "rootfs" partition. The first partition in the image is the boot partition, and all ROMs and configuration files for BeagleSNES live on this partition. The data on this partition is the only data that needs to be modified. Because the boot partition uses a VFAT filesystem, it will be automatically mapped as a drive within Windows once the microSD card is reinserted after the image has been written. Alternatively, this partition can also be accessed by manually mounting it under Linux. Many Linux distributions, such as Ubuntu, will detect an inserted microSD card and automount it for you. Typically, the mount point for the boot partition when it is automounted for you is the directory /media/BOOT. Once the boot partition of the microSD card is mounted and accessible, you are ready to proceed.
- Copy any ROM files that you wish to use with BeagleSNES into the /beaglesnes/rom directory of the boot partition/drive.
- Optional: Each game can also include a PNG image (typically 200x145) that represents a screenshot or box image of the game. This image will be displayed in the game selection menu. If you would like to include an image for a game, copy that image into the /beaglesnes/image directory of the boot partition/drive. If you do not include one, BeagleSNES will provide a default image for you.
Configuring your ROMS
Once you have copied your ROMs and images into appropriate locations on the boot partition/drive, you must tell BeagleSNES that you wish to include them as entries in the game selection menu. To do this, you must modify the XML text file "games.xml", which is located in the /beaglesnes directory of the boot partition/drive. A sample games.xml file is included with BeagleSNES for you to use as a template to create your own games.xml file. To edit games.xml, feel free to use any text editor that doesn't require DOS end-of-line characters. For Windows, we suggest using Notepad++. Wordpad will also work, but Notepad will show all of the lines together in a big jumble. If you are using Linux to edit games.xml, feel free to use any text editor that you feel comfortable using.
Each game listing inside games.xml exists between a pair of <game></game> tags. The sample template contains ten games: one game with all game information fields included (the "GameTitle1" game) and nine other entries that include only the bare minimum fields. At a minimum, you must include the title of the game (inside the <title></title> tags) and the filename of the ROM for that game (inside the <rom></rom> tags). The other optional tags can be used to specify a description, genre information, year the game was published, and a box/screenshot image. For more information on these tags and how to use them, please refer to the BeagleSNES manual.
Here is an example of what you may see and have to replace in a games.xml file. I will insert comments using "//".
<code> <?xml version="1.0"?> <snes> // This is a game entry with every possible piece of info <game> // Start of game entry <title>GameTitle1</title> // The game title displayed in the menu <rom>filename1.smc</rom> // The filename of the ROM <image>box_image1.png</image> // The filename of the game image <year>1999</year> // Year released <genre>Genre1</genre> // A descriptive genre <genre>Genre2</genre> // A second descriptive genre <text>Description text line 1</text> // Line of text describing the game <text>Description text line 2</text> // Line of text describing the game <text>Description text line 3</text> // Line of text describing the game <text>Description text line 4</text> // Line of text describing the game <text>Description text line 5</text> // Line of text describing the game </game> // End of game entry // This is the minimal entry for a game <game> <title>GameTitle2</title> <rom>filename2.smc</rom> </game> // ... More <game></game> tags go here for more games ... </snes> </code>
Note that the ROM and image filenames listed in games.xml are only the names of the files themselves. No path prefix needs to be added to these entries as BeagleSNES knows where these files are located in the filesystem. For example, an entry like "rom/filename1.smc" is incorrect for the <rom> entry, but "filename1.smc" is correct. Once your games.xml file has been updated, you are ready to set up your hardware to use BeagleSNES!
Playing BeagleSNES on your Monitor
- Plug in your microSD card into your BBB.
- Plug in your USB Tomee Controller into your BBB.
- Plug your BBB into your TV/Monitor using HDMI or through an alternate adapter.
- Once it is done loading, you will see all of the ROM info that you edited into the games.xml file and you are set to go!
Please refer to the BeagleSNES manual for more information about the following topics:
- Remapping the BeagleSNES controls to use USB controllers other than the Tomee
- Reconfiguring BeagleSNES to use the Circuitco LCD3 cape for video output
- Reconfiguring BeagleSNES for use on the BeagleBoard-xM
- Detailed explanations of the games.xml file XML tags and their usage


text:
As traditionally, Beţiktaţ players were encroached by Turkish referee. All of his rights were used for Fenerbahçe.
Fenerbahçe midfielder Alper Potuk reached the byline and passed the ball into the center where Emenike placed it in the back of the net: 1-0.
Beţiktaţ responded by increasing the pressure and were close to equalizing in the 26th minute.
Senegalese striker Demba Ba's header was denied by Fenerbahce goalkeeper Volkan Demirel. It was their best chance of the match so far.
Beţiktaţ midfielder Olcay Ţahan was sent off by the referee after fouling Fenerbahce central midfielder Emre Belozoglu at 43rd minute.
Last goal of the match was scored by Moussa Sow for his team.
Fenerbahçe players were protected by referee from the beginning of the match and it continued till end of the match.
As a tradition in Turkey for Beţiktaţ, neither Galatasaray nor Fenerbahçe were their rivals. Beţiktaţ players need to first beat Turkish referees...


text:
Louisiana Federal Property Assistance Agency
WHEREAS, Public Law 94-519, enacted on October 17, 1976, amended the Federal Property and Administrative Act of 1949, 40 U.S.C. 484., et seq ., to permit the donation of federal surplus personal property to the states, local government, eligible 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organizations, Small Business Administration 8A program participants, for public purposes, and for other purposes;
WHEREAS, the U.S. General Services Administration within the executive branch of the United States Government is the designated federal agency which allocates the surplus property among the states in a fair and equitable manner, pursuant to criteria, which are based on need and utilization;
WHEREAS, after the Administrator of U.S. General Services Administration transfers the surplus property to a designated state agency, the property is distributed by the state agency: 1) to public agencies for carrying out or promoting one or more public purposes, which includes but are not limited to, conservation, economic development, education, parks and recreation, public health and public safety; 2) to nonprofit educational or public health institutions or organizations, including medical institutions, hospitals, health clinics, schools, colleges, universities, schools for the mentally retarded or physically handicapped, child care centers, and certain radio and television stations; and 3) Small Business Administration 8A program participants;
WHEREAS, before any property may be transferred to a state agency by the administrator of the U.S. General Services Administration, the state shall develop, according to state law, a detailed plan of operation, developed in conformity with federal law, which includes adequate assurance for the federal government that the state agency has the "necessary organizational and operational authority and capability, including staff, facilities, means and methods of financing, and procedures with respect to: accountability, internal and external audits, cooperative agreements, compliance and utilization reviews, equitable distribution and property disposal, determination of eligibility, and assistance through consultation with advisory bodies and public and private groups";
WHEREAS, a permanent, revised plan of operation must be submitted to the administrator of the U.S. General Services Administration for approval in order that the state and/or state program may continue to qualify under Public Law 94-519;
WHEREAS, in addition to the federal surplus personal property that may be transferred to the states pursuant to the Federal Property and Administrative Act of 1949, as amended, under 10 U.S.C. 2576 a, added by Public Law 104-181, the secretary of Defense may also transfer to federal and state agencies the personal property of the Department of Defense, including small arms and ammunition, which the secretary of Defense determines is excess to the needs of the Department of Defense, but suitable for use by state and federal agencies in law enforcement activities, such as counter-drug and counterterrorism actions; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA Fleet Management) within the executive branch of the United States Government is the designated federal agency which allows the sale of federal fleet turn-in vehicles to state government. Authority is granted under 41CFR 101-45.304-12. These vehicles will be resold to state and local government organizations, eligible 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organizations, and Small Business Administration 8A program participants for public and other purposes;
NOW THEREFORE, I, BOBBY JINDAL, Governor of the state of Louisiana, by virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution and the laws of the state of Louisiana, do hereby order and direct as follows:
SECTION 1: The Federal Property Assistance Program shall continue to be known as the Louisiana Federal Property Assistance Agency (hereafter "Agency").
SECTION 2: The Agency shall submit a revised Plan of Operation to the administrator of the U.S. General Services Administration for approval so that the state and/or public agencies of the state of Louisiana may participate or continue to participate as donees under the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949, as amended.
SECTION 3: The Agency shall be responsible for carrying out the provisions of the Plan of Operation, as approved by the administrator of the U.S. General Services Administration, and the fixed price vehicle resale program, as prescribed by the GSA Fleet Management within the executive branch of the United States Government.
SECTION 4: The Agency shall be responsible for carrying out the provisions of the Plan of Operation, as approved by the administrator of the U.S. General Services Administration, and the counter-drug program, counter-terrorism and law enforcement activities, as prescribed by the secretary of Defense.
SECTION 5: The Agency shall be a unit within the Office of General Services, a section of the Division of Administration, within the executive branch, Office of the Governor. The agency assistant director shall report to the commissioner of administration, through the director of the Agency.
SECTION 6: The director of the Agency, acting through the agency assistant director, shall possess all power and authority necessary to exercise and perform all the functions, duties, and responsibilities cited in the revised Plan of Operation, so as to comply with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
SECTION 7: All departments, commissions, boards, offices, entities, agencies, and officers of the state of Louisiana, or any political subdivision thereof, are authorized and directed to cooperate with the Agency in implementing the provisions of this Order.
SECTION 8: This Order is effective upon signature and shall continue in effect until amended, modified, terminated, or rescinded by the governor, or terminated by operation of law.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand officially and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of Louisiana, at the Capitol, in the city of Baton Rouge, on this 22nd day of August, 2008.
Bobby Jindal
Jay Dardenne
Secretary of State


text:
If a student identifies as having a disability and presents a letter of accommodation from the Disability Services office, generally it is the instructor's responsibility to ensure that the learning environment is accessible. Due to the very personal and private nature of some disabilities, it is important that instructors create an atmosphere in which students feel comfortable about coming forward to discuss any accommodation requests they may have. This is where the ADA statement in your syllabi is helpful. It is also imperative that instructors safeguard the confidentiality of students who disclose having a disability and/or request reasonable accommodation for a disability.
Reasonable accommodations refers to steps that can be taken without significant difficulty or expense to allow otherwise qualified students to fulfill course requirements by limiting as much as possible the effects of their disabilities on their performance. If reasonable accommodations are not obvious, effort must be made to look for possible effective accommodations.
Disability Services is responsible for assessing a student's eligibility for reasonable accommodation and recommending specific accommodation techniques based on information provided by the student's health care provider. The following are examples of accommodations that may be necessary to ensure equal access to education:
- Coordination of special arrangements to meet individual test taking needs
- Volunteer peer notetakers
- Permission to use a voice recorder in lecture classes
- Sign language interpretation
- Real Time Captioning services
- Alternative tables and chairs in the classroom
- Facilitation of obtaining books in alternate formats


text:
VANCOUVER - Vancouver police say no arrests were made after a May Day protest on Commercial Drive turned violent last night, unlike in other cities such as Montreal and Seattle, where hundreds of people could face charges.
Around 10 p.m., Vancouver police sent in the riot squad to deal with about 60 May Day protesters who had started a fire in the area of Commercial Drive and Charles Street.
Police stepped in after the protesters refused to comply with repeated requests to disperse, said Vancouver police Const. Lindsey Houghton.
"The protesters eventually left and the Vancouver Fire and Rescue Service moved in to extinguish the burning pile of wood, paper and other items," said Houghton.
No injuries were reported.
Meanwhile, police in Montreal say nearly 100 protesters were arrested following a May Day march that started out peacefully but deteriorated into a melee of rock throwing, window-breaking and smoke bombs.
The march, organized by the anti-capitalist group CLAC-Montreal, started a little after 5 p.m. and was declared illegal by police at two minutes after 6 p.m. following violent clashes..
After black-clad youth were seen hurling rocks at store windows, flash grenades were launched by police to warn them off. But the same youths picked up the smoke bombs lobbed by the police and threw them toward pedestrians.
Similar violence also erupted in several major cities south of the border Tuesday night.
Occupy Wall Street protesters - rallying against economic injustice - smashed windows in Seattle.
As in Montreal, black-clad May Day demonstrators smashed windows at banks and retail outlets, spray-painted cars and slashed tires.
Protesters were chased through New York streets by police on scooters and more than 40 people were arrested.
Elsewhere in Canada, demonstrations were peaceful.
In Ottawa, about 1,000 people, most of them members of the Public Service Alliance of Canada, turned up near Parliament Hill to protest federal cuts that will eliminate nearly 20,000 government jobs.
With files from Postmedia News and Reuters.