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Bologna '18
We're off to Bologna !
After a two year hiatus we're going back to the annual children's book fair in Bologna. We had a great time last time we went in 2015, but have been too busy over the last couple years to join in the fun since then.
We've also made some changes in our overall strategy, trying to shift the focus from our interactive books to more tangible figurines and statuettes based on some of our home-grown characters.
Having gained bags of experience sculpting, printing, molding and airbrushing our own figurines we also feel comfortable and confident in offering these services to other children's content creators.
We'll be going round different publishers showing our goods and handing out our details and in case you will be in Bologna this year and like what we do, we would love to get in touch and maybe hook up during the festival.
We are so looking forward to it !


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We seek to provide a sanctuary where people can come together as a community to foster spiritual and personal growth through education and open discussion, to offer the opportunity for meditation and worship, and to serve as a liberal religious voice.
In our interactions with one another, we seek to build a strong community, great with acceptance, appreciation, caring love, respect, tolerance, trust, and forgiveness; to listen to one another and resolve our conflicts peacefully; to sympathize with and show compassion to one another; to express our creativity together; and to delight in fun and friendship.
As a religious community, we strive to help one another in our individual journeys to discover our spiritual selves; to find purpose, self-worth, and peace; to explore moral and ethical questions together; and to inspire, challenge, and to stimulate one another intellectually – with open-mindedness and without judgment.
As individuals and in the larger community, we will speak against injustice and cruelty. We seek to model tolerance and diversity; confront the fear of difference; and thoughtfully address the many difficult problems of our world.

subset: commoncrawl


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Men these days search for a way through the clouds,
But the cloud way is dark and without sign.
The mountains are high and often steep and rocky;
In the broadest valleys the sun seldom shines.
Green crests before you and behind,
White clouds to east and west–
Do you want to know where the cloud way lies?
There it is, in the midst of the Void!
translated by Burton Watson


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Serves 4
1kg Green Prawns (peeled, de-veined with tails in tact)
500g Fresh Pineapple segments (peeled, cored and cleaned)
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce or kecap manis (sweet soy sauce)
2 tablespoons chilli and garlic sauce
1 lemon
1 teaspoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
Bamboo Skewers
Soak the skewers in water for 30 mins so they are saturated and do not burn during the cooking process.
Thread prawns and pineapple segments onto the skewers. Lie flat in a shallow dish.
Combine honey, soy, butter, oil and chilli sauce and pour over prawns and pineapple. Allow to marinate for at least 30 mins.
Heat and oil pan, grill or BBQ to a high heat and cook skewers for 3-4 mins. Ensure they are turned frequently. Continue to baste with marinate whilst cooking.
Serve with lemon wedges, salad and crusty bread.
Recipe supplied by: R Jacobson WA


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Greta Fuller advocates for "education that works for youth, adults, and re-entry citizens," as part of her campaign for DC City Council. Tune in Thursday, January 29, at 11:30 to hear more.
Ms. Fuller is among the many candidates seeking to fill the Ward 8 seat left vacant when Councilmember (and former Mayor) Marion Barry died in late 2014. Her own education includes degrees in electrical engineering, acupuncture, and oriental medicine.
The Education Town Hall broadcasts from Historic Anacostia in Washington, DC, Thursdays at 11 Eastern on We Act Radio.
Listen live via TuneIn.
Shows are archived for convenient listening shortly after broadcast.
The Education Town Hall BUS is a monthly program organized by BadAss Teachers, United Opt Out, and SOS March. The program regularly airs on the 4th Thursday of each month.


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Lockhart Shire nestles in the heart of the Riverina and is one of it's most productive agricultural and pastoral areas.
Investment Incentives
Lockhart Shire Council's Investment Attraction Incentives Package is designed to attract investment in key strategic industries and to stimulate significant and sustainable economic growth, diversify our industry base and value add to our regional economy.
The Investment Attractions Incentives package is for businesses in key industries and locations that will encourage job growth and business growth in the region. It is also available for new businesses and for those wanting to relocate or expand operations within the region.
The focus of the incentives package is on projects that will:
- Create new jobs and investment;
- Value‐add through enhanced supply chains;
- Generate growth
within key strategic industries and
- Demonstrate innovation and
- Diversify and make the local
economy more
sustainable; and,
- Fill identified gaps in the local economy.
Further information is available in the Investment Attraction Incentives Scheme Guidelines:
For further details please contact our Tourism & Economic Development Officer on 02 6920 5305.


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By Brenda Maguire
NEW BRITAIN — It may not rival the extravagance of a Hollywood party, but for the New Britain community the Chamber of Commerce's annual dinner is the social event of the season.
"It's probably the most important dinner of the year," said Bill Millerick, president of the New Britain Chamber, later adding, "It's really a must-be-at event for the city of New Britain."
The Chamber's 98th annual dinner will be held Thursday, Nov. 17, from 5 to 8 p.m. at St. George Greek Orthodox Church on West Main Street.
The event will bring together nonprofits, businesses and organizations for a cocktail hour followed by a dinner and awards ceremony.
According to Millerick, the highlight of the night is the Distinguished Community Service Award, which will be given to attorney Stephen Anderson of the New Britain law firm Anderson, Reynolds and Lynch.
"It might be the most prestigious award in the city because a lot of prestigious people have won it," Millerick said.
Anderson has worked with many local groups including the YMCA, Habitat for Humanity and the Manes and Motions rehabilitative riding program at the Hospital for Special Care.
He has also been doing work to help the homeless.
"The people he works with and the organizations really love him and really respect him," Millerick said.
There will also be a special recognition of Mayor Timothy Stewart for his eight years in office.
Additionally, the Winged Victory Downtown Award will be given to the Ververis family and Capitol Lunch, the Beehive Business and Industry Award will be presented to Admill Machine of John Downey Drive, and the Non-Profit Organization of the Year will be awarded to the Boys and Girls Club of New Britain.
Sponsor tables are available from $750 to $1,500 and individual reservations are $75 per person.
For more information and for reservations, contact Teresa Riccio at (860) 229-1665, ext. 210, or visit http://www.newbritainchamber.com.


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The Hemperor is a totally chill, regal-looking dude with a leafy crown, a statement necklace and a bushy mustache. He's the very definition of a benevolent ruler, presiding over a magical kingdom filled with fluffy woodland creatures, a talking sun and the dankest beer ever made. Continue Reading on AdWeek >
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Fox River Valley: After dancing across Europe, former ballerina shares her passion
NEENAH - The first time Lauri Lumby attended a performance by students from Valley Academy for the Arts, she cried.
"It was the first time in many years I had seen something I would call real ballet," Lauri recalled.
She had grown up studying ballet and attending professional performances throughout the U.S. At Valley Academy, she didn't see the dancers — one of whom was her daughter — performing a memorized routine in a line, but rather she saw a ballet that told a story.
Lauri loved Valley Academy's interpretation of "Where the Wild Things Are" so much that she decided to take the office manager position at the studio, which has brought arts and culture to the Fox River Valley for more than 15 years.
Anne Marie Abderholden founded Valley Academy for the Arts in 2002, now located at 139 Lake St. in Neenah, to bring world-class dance training to the area. Since then, the studio has educated hundreds of dancers in ballet, jazz and hip hop. It even offers dance classes for adults.
Around 130 students are enrolled in the dance program right now, Anne Marie said. Former students have gone on to study dance at universities and dance with professional companies, she added.
Anne Marie aims to create an inclusive environment in her studio and she believes that income should not deter children from joining Valley Academy.
"We are providing the best arts education to anyone that's interested regardless of their economic background," Anne Marie said.
The studio offers scholarships and tuition relief to those who need it, she said.
Telling stories through dance
Each spring, the studio forgoes a standard dance recital. Instead, Anne Marie creates a unique ballet story. The stories come from diverse influences like "Pipi Longstocking" or Maurice Sendak's classic children's book, "Where the Wild Things Are." All the students in the dance program come together to put on the show.
There's also a strong focus on community outreach at Valley Academy. The dancers give performances at nursing homes and schools. People might recognize Valley Academy dancers from the Paine's annual "Nutcracker in the Castle." Each year the students give up their weekends to perform for visitors.
Anne Marie was born in Holland and grew up in Switzerland where she's danced almost her entire life. At age seven, she earned a spot in the Zurich Opera Ballet School. She's danced with professional companies across Europe including Volksopera Ballet based in Vienna.
She came to Madison in 1991 and has since stayed in Wisconsin, where she worked as a choreographer for Wisconsin Dance Ensemble and the Children's Performing Art Center before opening her own studio.
RELATED:'Nutcracker in the Castle' returns to the Paine on Friday for 12th Christmas season
RELATED:Omro High School band travels to Hawaii for parade commemorating Pearl Harbor attack
A Family Tradition
Anne Marie's daughter, Katharina Abderholden, also teaches at Valley Academy. She's danced professionally in the U.S. and Switzerland. She also worked with Danceworks, a dance studio in Milwaukee before coming back to help her mom.
Katharina aims to teach her students that dance is more about personal development than just creating something for an audience.
She teaches ballet and will also hold modern dance classes for adults who want to get back into dancing.
Valley Academy lets anyone participate in arts education regardless of age or socioeconomic background, which is why Katharina really likes working there. It's rare, she said, because elite dance programs are often expensive.
Why the students keep coming back
Rebekah Nielsen began coming to the studio when she was 4 years old. She's now been there for 12 years.
Rebekah is both a student and ballet instructor. She teaches ballet to three- and four-year-old students each week.
"We have a lot of community here," she said.
She's also a performer in the Paine's "Nutcracker." She said she loves seeing the audience's enjoyment.
Meredith Plamann, 12, is also involved in the "Nutcracker" on the weekends. She's been dancing at Valley Academy since she was four. Eight years later, she's an avid ballerina.
She enjoys coming to dance each week since everyone is friends with each other.
In addition to the dance studio, the school houses a musical theater program. Between dance and musical theater, nearly 500 students come to the building in a week, Anne Marie said.
In the future, Anne Marie hopes to continue bring "really great arts" to the Fox River Valley community.


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Confidence interval for mean
1) A food inspector, examining 5 jars of a certain brand of peanut butter, obtained the following percentages of impurities:
2.3; 1.9; 2.1; 2.8; 2.3
Assuming that such determinations are normally distributed, construct a 99% confidence interval for the average percentage of impurities in this brand of peanut butter.
2) Twelve randomly selected citrus trees of one variety have a mean height of 13.8 ft with a standard deviation of 1.2 feet, and fifteen randomly selected citrus trees of another variety have a mean height of 12.9 ft with a standard deviation of 1.5 ft. Stating appropriate assumptions, construct a 95% confidence interval for the difference between the true average heights of the two kinds of citrus trees.
3) A box contains 500 ball bearings which have a mean weight of 5.02 ounces and a standard deviation of 0.3 ounces. A random sample of 100 ball bearings is drawn with replacement from that box. Let x- be the mean weight of the sample of 100 ball bearings. Estimate the probability that x- will be between 4.96 and 5.00 ounces.
4) In a random sample of 120 cheerleaders, 54 suffered moderate to severe damage to their voices. Find a 90% confidence interval for the true proportion of cheerleaders who are afflicted in this way.
5)Miss Prim's class of grade 1 students has 22 children whose mean height is 47.75 inches while Mr. Trim's class of grade 2 students has 25 children whose mean height is 50.4 inches. The standard deviations of the heights of first graders and second graders are known in general to be 1.8 inches and 2.05 inches, respectively. Stating appropriate assumptions, find a 98% confidence interval for the mean growth µ2 -µ1 between second graders and first graders.


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By James Pearson
Patrick Patterson, MSW, MPH, president/founder of Global Partners for Fathers & Families LLC, spoke about the important role of fathers at DCCC's Marple campus Sept. 30.
His seminar, in partnership with the Black & Latino Male Achievement Initiative titled "ACT 101 Empowerment Series," focused on inspiring students.
Patterson talked about his life growing up with a father who abused alcohol and the story of how he met President George W. Bush, which led to working for Bush for four years as part of the Father Initiative in 1999.
Patterson has delivered more than 700 training sessions, technical assistance consultations, and grant writing workshops
at conferences in 42 states, Mexico, Mongolia, Jamaica and the Bahamas.
Nearly all seats in the small auditorium were filled as students waited for Patterson to speak. While waiting for the seminar to begin, students enjoyed pizza and beverages until it was time to commence.
During his presentation, Patterson described his journey.
When Patterson was 15 years old, his father left him because of a drinking problem and "being involved in the streets," Patterson said, adding that when he was in high school he played basketball to get his mind off his father's issues and finished with a 1.3 GPA.
"It was difficult to live a normal life because of the issues that my father was going through," Patterson said. He realized he needed a change of perspective.
Sherani Ashford Patterson, his wife, said about their relationship "If you want to be with me you have to go to college."
Patterson added that it was because of his wife, the book Failing Forward by John Maxwell and the Bible that led him to take the right turn in his life and was challenged to do things in a different way.
Patterson afterward attended Benedict College where he made the Dean's List for four years before receiving a Bachelor of Social Work degree.
A few days later, Patterson received a call from the White House to have a
meeting with President Bush about being involved in the Father Initiative.
"In 1993, Don Eberly, a civil society scholar, organized 20 of the nation's leading social experts to meet in Aspen, Colorado to discuss reserving father absences," according fatherhood.org. "After awhile, the National Fatherhood Initiative was created with Wade Horn as its first president, David Blankenhorn as its first board chairman, a board of directors including leaders such as Dr. Louis Sullivan and George Gallup, and advisory board of James Earl Jones, Willard Scott, and Bill Bennett."
Patterson later joined the National Fatherhood Initiative.
During his meeting with the President he was asked what he was passionate about and he answered it was his father.
When Patterson was offered the job he prayed with his wife about where he should be relocated and chose to pick Philadelphia where he worked directly under President Bush.
Today, Patterson has successfully written and led grant-writing efforts that have resulted in state, Foundation, and Federal grant awards resulting in more than $40 million dollars, according to his website www.globalpartnersff.com.
As Patterson concluded his story students asked questions about the relationship that he now has with his father
and how fathers can be more involved in their child's life.
Roland Sharp, who majors in social work, asked Patterson, "What do you do with youth that have lost their fathers."
Patterson responded, "Youth need to think about their circle by being connected with their father's story."
Jay Shedrick III, another student in the HVAC program, asked Patterson, "What did you have to do mentally to go from a 1.3 GPA to a 4.0 GPA."
Patterson replied, "It is what you say to yourself and by thinking what could go right."
In talking about his father, Patterson emphasized "the importance of forgiveness." "I feel that the relationships that you keep are important, especially with good people," he said.
Patterson added he wants people to understand the importance of doing something that they love and doing it for free.
"When the opportunity knocks take it," he said. "Learn what your why is and take the chance."


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Post Office Committed to Culross Services
The Post Office has affirmed its commitment to restoring services in Culross. Responding to an enquiry by Dunfermline MSP Bill Walker, the National Consultation Team advised that a search is underway for suitable new premises.
Mr Walker said: "Culross residents have been without a branch for some weeks following the resignation of the postmaster and withdrawal of the premises.
"Several constituents have contacted me regarding their concerns. Post Offices are a vital hub of the community, and the closure of the Culross service means residents have to travel into Dunfermline and elsewhere to access the services they rely on.
"The Post Office has reassured me that they understand the difficulties Culross residents are facing, particularly the more vulnerable members of the community.
"They are actively seeking a new partner to provide premises and operate a Post Office service. Interested parties who haven't yet contacted them should call the Agency Recruitment team on 0845 601 6260.
"They have said they will keep me advised of future developments."
Customers with concerns can call the national helpline on 08457 22 33 44 or email the National Consultation Team at email@example.com.


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Human Salmonella Isolates, 2016
Wednesday 22nd March 2023
Human Salmonella Isolates, 2016
The number of Salmonella isolates confirmed this year (n=1150) showed an increase in comparison with 2015 (n= 1133). Salmonella Brandenburg was the predominant serotype, representing 5.8% of total isolates (4.6% in 2015). Salmonella serotypes showing an increase this year in comparison with 2015 included: S. Bovismorbificans (from 2.0% to 3.4%), S. Brandenburg (from 4.6% to 5.8%) and S. Stanley (from 2.2% to 5.2%).
Significant outbreaks and clusters:
Increase in Salmonella Typhimurium phage type 9 notifications November 2015 to April 2016 (Source: Health Intelligence Team, EpiSurv, ERL)
• From 01 November 2015 to 12 April 2016 there have been 40 notifications of Salmonella Typhimurium phage type 9 in New Zealand. This is a significant increase when compared to the same period in previous years (10 in 2014/2015, 8 in 2013/2014).
Increase in Salmonella Stanley notifications reported to Tairawhiti DHB in February-May 2016 (Source: Health Intelligence Team, EpiSurv, Tairawhiti DHB, ERL, MPI, Ministry of Health)
• Tairawhiti DHB, in conjunction with the Ministry of Health, Ministry for Primary Industries and ESR, are investigating an increase in Salmonella Stanley notifications. From 01 February to 04 May 2016 there have been 14 cases reported, a significant increase compared to the same period in previous years (no cases reported previously).
Note: Click on the document links below to open. These documents are in PDF format. You will need to download the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view them.


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JONESBORO, Ark. — An Arkansas auto dealer and its owners have agreed to pay a $90,000 civil penalty to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they failed to display a "Buyers Guide" on used vehicles offered for sale, as required by the FTC's Used Car Rule.
In March 2014, the FTC charged Abernathy Motor Company, Wesley Abernathy and David Abernathy with violating the rule, which is designed to ensure that consumers have important purchasing and warranty information when shopping for a used car. The Buyers Guide tells consumers whether the vehicle comes with a warranty and what that warranty covers, among other things.
The rule also provides that the Buyers Guide becomes a part of the sales contract and overrides any contrary provisions in the contract.
In addition to the $90,000 civil penalty, under the proposed final order, Abernathy Motor Company and its owners are prohibited from misrepresenting material facts about used vehicles offered for sale, including mechanical condition, the terms of any warranty offered, and that there is a warranty when a vehicle is sold without one. They are also barred from failing to disclose, before a sale, material terms and conditions, including that a used vehicle is sold without a warranty if none is offered, and the terms of any warranty.
The proposed order also requires the defendants to display prominently a properly completed Buyers Guide on used vehicles, with all of the disclosures required by the Used Car Rule and reflecting the warranty coverage, and to include this statement in sales contracts: "The information you see on the window form for this vehicle is part of this contract. Information on the window form overrides any contrary provisions in the contract of sale." For sales conducted in Spanish, the dealership must provide the same information in Spanish.
The FTC vote authorizing the staff to file the proposed stipulated order for permanent injunction was 5-0. It was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas, Jonesboro Division.


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BlackBerry DTEK50 unboxing: We got our hands on the new DTEK50, which BlackBerry has dubbed 'the world's most secure Android smartphone'. Read on for our unboxing and a hands-on review.
BlackBerry DTEK50: Specs at a glance
|Screen size
|Screen resolution
|Full HD (1920×1080)
|135 grams
|Android 6.0 Marshmallow
|Rear camera
|Front camera
|1.5GHz/1.2GHz octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 617
|16GB. Expandable via microSD up to 2TB
|2610mAh non-removable
BlackBerry DTEK50: Hands-on review
As well as being the company's first phone of the year, the DTEK50 is also the company's first Android phone to shrug a physical keyboard completely. The hardware as a whole actually comes from a reference device made by Chinese manufacturer TCL, the company responsible for Alcatel's current range of Android smartphones (including the similarly styled/specced Idol 4), as well as Vodafone's Smart Platinum 7.
The DTEK50 comes in a compact black box embossed with BlackBerry's 'pip' logo all over the place. Lift out the phone and you'll notice the screen protector features a branded shield emblem, likely highlighting the added security the company has layered on top of the near stock Android Marshmallow experience.
Read next: DTEK50 vs OnePlus 3 vs Moto G4 Plus what's the difference?
Remove the back protector and you're presented with a heavily textured plastic that offers tons of grip but doesn't feel uncomfortable to handle as with the likes of Wileyfox's coarse Sandstone black Storm from last year. It's non-removable, so the phone's 2610mAh battery remains locked away, but the nanoSIM/microSD card tray is built into the side of the phone's chamfered metal frame instead.
Speaking of SD cards, the DTEK50's relatively affordable price point means that it has notably lower internal storage versus its Android-based sibling, the Priv, but thankfully BlackBerry has alleviated any worries of storage anxiety with support for up to 2TB cards.
Underneath the phone, the box contains a polished SIM tray removal tool, a quick-start guide and safety information card and the rest of the key accessories. As well as a collapsible UK power adapter and microUSB lead, BlackBerry also saw fit to throw in some fairly decent looking in-ear headphones, which boast a gold-plated 3.5mm jack and an inline remote and microphone, as well as multiple sizes of buds o accommodate different users.
Overall the phone is well styled (if a little generic), feels nice in the hand and with its 5.2-inch Full HD display hits the same sweet spot as the likes of the Samsung Galaxy S7 and Honor 5C. The Snapdragon 617 processor at the heart of the DTEK50 also means that the phone supports Qualcomm's Quick Charge functionality.
On the software side, as with the company's previous phones, BlackBerry has ensured that there's some level encryption on every layer of the phone's programming, starting at a processor level. At the other end, the DTEK app ensures that key security features of Android (such as app-specific permissions) are more readily visible to the user, letting you keep tabs on what your apps are up to and whether they're pinging the phone's location or using other hardware like the microphone.
The DTEK app also gives you a security status rating, making sure your DTEK50 is properly protected by way of a PIN or password-laden lock screen, that developer mode is disabled and other aspects of Android are in order such as trusted app support and factory reset protection is enabled.
Beyond the layer of security, BlackBerry has also added some intelligent tweaks to the stock Android interface. Swiping up and down on select apps gives you quick access to their respective widgets without having to open each app completely, gesture controls let you quickly perform a phone-wide search, open the dialler or jump to the (now more customisable) BlackBerry Hub, the same excellent on-screen intelligent keyboard we encountered on the Priv is present too and now boasts swipe typing as well as flick typing and the productivity tab is a great way to see upcoming appointments from anywhere on the phone.
We're impressed the with experience that the BlackBerry DTEK50 offers out the box and the £275 price tag should make it a more approachable offering for consumers (and businesses) on the fence about the brand until now. Stay tuned for a full review soon.
Watch the full BlackBerry DTEK50 unboxing and hands-on review below:


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Fund Your Future.
Through partnerships in our local community, University Center is able to offer thousands of dollars in scholarships to students every year. During selection, we look at your desire to learn and financial need – not just your GPA. Find scholarships for all types of students, including part-time, full-time, and degree completion and Fund your Future!
Osher Re-entry Scholarship (Click for Details)
Do you have a cumulative gap of five years or more in your education? This scholarship could be just for you! This scholarship is available for students starting 2017-2018!
The Osher Reentry Scholarships supports degree-seeking adult students. This scholarship provides up to $3,000 for the academic year to at least 20 individual scholarship recipients. Preference may be given to applicants who are newly matriculating students and are between the ages of 25-50. Osher Reentry Scholars may be eligible to renew their scholarship in subsequent years.
Eligibility Requirements
- A full or part-time student seeking your first bachelor's degree
- Taking at least half of your credits face-to-face at University Center in Sioux Falls
- Have a cumulative gap in your education of five years or more
- Demonstration Financial need via FAFSA results and/or essay
Donna Ohling Scholarship (Click for Details)
Are you a part-time (6cr minimum) student attending UC and at least 24-years-old? Apply today!
This scholarship is an endowment to honor the late Donna Ohling, a former training officer and beloved family member of the First National Bank in Sioux Falls. Donna was a student at University Center; this scholarship is designed for adult learners like her. Two scholarships up to $1,900 will be awarded. Preference may be given to employees of First National Bank in Sioux Falls.
Eligibility Requirements
- Non-traditional, part-time (3cr minimum) students aged 24+
- Enrolled in 6 credits at University Center in awarding semester
- A maintained cumulative 2.0 GPA and a 67% Completion Rate to remain eligible
- Completion of the FAFSA
Service First Federal Credit Union Scholarship (Click for Details)
The Service First Scholarship awards $500 and is open to any and all students pursuing a UC degree.
This non-renewable scholarship for $500 is open to all UC students. In addition to completing a scholarship form, applicants whom the scholarship committee deems eligible may also be contacted to submit a brief essay about credit unions.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be registered for a minimum of 6 credits at University Center in a given semester
- Completion of the FAFSA
Robert and Dr. Judy Nissen Scholarship (Click for Details)
This $500 scholarship award is designed to support adult learners 24 and older and is open to both undergraduate and graduate students. Preference is given to female applicants. Applicants must complete the Nissen Scholarship Form. Two scholarships are offered per year.
Robert and Dr. Judy Nissen valued education and were sensitive to the unique challenges women face in the workplace. At age 29, Dr. Judy Nissen was widowed with two little girls when she decided to go back to school and earn her Ph.D. She eventually became the Director of the Center for Public Education, which is now University Center. Dr. Nissen retired in 2001, but her commitment to adult education continues with this $500 scholarship.
Preference will be given to women; however, men who fit the eligibility criteria are welcome to apply. Selections are based heavily on career goals and financial need.
Eligibility Requirements
- Students age 24 and older
- Degree-seeking students
- Earning a 3.0 GPA or higher
- Demonstration of Financial Aid via FAFSA results
The application form for the Robert and Dr. Judy Nissen Scholarship is available through the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation around December 15. Typical application deadline is April 15 each year.
Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation (Click for Details)
Our local community offers an array of scholarship options to a variety of students with the express goal of helping them pay for a quality education that will offer opportunities right here in South Dakota.
Looking for more options in the Sioux Falls area? Check out all the scholarships available via the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation!
Citibank of South Dakota (Click for Details)
The possibility to have $700 applied toward semester costs could be available to you. Citibank's scholarship can be applied for each year!
Two scholarships are available for $700 each to be applied toward semester costs. Students can apply each academic year.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be registered for a minimum of 6 credits at University Center in a given semester
- Residency in the Sioux Falls and/or surrounding community
- Completion of the FAFSA
Note: Undergraduate students who are starting their education at University Center are given preference.
Sioux Falls Construction (Click for Details)
You don't have to work at Sioux Falls Construction to be eligible for this $650 scholarship! This scholarship can be applied for each semester.
Eligibility Requirements
- Undergraduate student (BA, BBA, BS, AA, or AS)
- Demonstration of Financial Aid via FAFSA results and/or essay
- Satisfactory academic progress (Completion Rate of 67% or higher)
- Cumulative GPA of 2.5
- Minimum of 6 credits must be taken at University Center per semester
Note: Preference is given to those who work for Sioux Falls Construction; however, anyone can apply who is eligible.
Pat and Craig Lloyd (Click for Details)
Would you like $200 to apply toward books/tuition? This scholarship could become yours!
One award of 200.00 awarded to an undergraduate student that has financial need Minimum of 6 credits face to face
Eligibility Requirements
- Demonstration of financial need via the FAFSA results
- Registered for 6 credits at University Center
First Premier Bank | Premier BankCard (Click for Details)
Do you work for Premier Bank/Bankcard? How about $4,000 over a four year period?
You could be eligible for a scholarship to help you earn a degree with one of our partner institutions at University Center! Contact Premier Bank's Anna Mitchell in Human Resources at ext 4050 to express intent to apply for the First Premier Bank Scholarship.
Eligibility Requirements
- Demonstration of financial need via the FAFSA results
- Candidate must be a full-time or part-time student in good academic standing (2.0 GPA or higher) at University Center
- Candidate must be employed by First PREMIER Bank or PREMIER Bankcard working a minimum of 10 hours per week
- Candidate must be employed for 90 days and be performing job duties at a "Satisfactory" rating prior to receiving the scholarship dollars
- Once a candidate has been awarded the scholarship, he or she is eligible to receive the scholarship the following year without additional application, provided eligibility requirements continue to be maintained
- Candidates may receive a maximum of $4,000 over a four-year period
Available for students with need and live in the Sioux Falls area.
Workplace Technology Scholarship
Up to two scholarships worth $500 each!
Eligibility Requirements
- Need
- Sioux Falls area resident
- Undergraduate University Center-Sioux Falls Student
News & Events
Memorial Day 2017
No classes and offices closed in observance of Memorial Day.View Details
USD Discovery District Groundbreaking Ceremony Thursday 5/18 10:30am
Posted: May 15, 2017
Join us. As national, state, regional leaders, industry and academia gather to break ground and celebrate the launch of SD's 1st innovation community.Read More
UCSF Hosting Sioux Falls Chamber August Membership Mixer
Posted: May 12, 2017
Please join us to commemorate our 25th year in Sioux Falls, UCSF hosting the 2017 August Mixer on August 15th 4:30pm – 6:30pm.Read More


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I saw Romeo Must Die (2000) starring Chinese actor and martial artist Jet Li and singer Aaliyah recently. It's still terrible. But seeing Jet Li act (the last scene between father and son is the only one worth watching) and do rope dart (when he used the fire hose as a weapon) reminded me of the admiration I felt for Chinese movies in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
No, Romeo Must Die is not a Chinese film. It did star Chinese action phenom Jet Li, whose talents shine in Hero (2002), a Chinese film loosely based on the Qin emperor uniting various kingdoms to make a united China.
Hong Kong was making cinematic miracles full of depth, emotion, majesty, and storytelling every year. They were so good I felt like I was blind before becoming a Chinese movie fan. The colorful costumes, cinematography, and nuanced acting were amazing.
Other stellar Hong Kong action/drama films include House of Flying Daggers (2004), Infernal Affairs (2002), and Kung Fu Hustle (2004). Each is a treat for the senses.
You must see Hero for its combination of color, mournful cello soundtrack, story, and movement. If you enjoyed Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000), you have a sense of what I mean.
Learning about China's atrocities, deceptive business practices, and the CCP Virus pandemic caused me to forget my admiration for the work that went into these films. Seeing Jet Li again in Romeo Must Die was a good reminder that the Chinese Communist Party is not the Chinese people.
It was nice to feel good about something Chinese again.
Somewhere, beneath all the communism, China's soul struggles.
Featured image is a screenshot from the Chinese film Hero (2002).


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1.858 13 May 2022
* Update to license wording
Fri May 13 07:50:35 2022 +0100
1.857 25 February 2022
* Silence gcc12 'empty-body' warning
1.856 22 June 2021
* Ensure that all *.bak files are cleaned up
1.855 13 October 2020
* Stop shipping DB_File_BS for the NeXT operating system.
1.854 16 September 2020
* Prefer direct notation over indirect (#4)
* Make hint/BS snippets strict compliant.
* trim whitespace
1.853 5 January 2020
* Memory leak if ParseOpenInfo calls croak_and_free
* Add Address Sanatizer suppressions file
* Add prereq test
* Documemtation updates
* clang warning in ppport.h
update to latest ppport.h
* #125853 - RT links in Changes file are wrong
Changes entry for 1.842 has both CPAN & Perl RT links.
Use the full URL to avoid ambiguity.
1.852 21 April 2019
* ParseOpenInfo() leaks if it croaks
DB_File_type memory not freed when ParseOpenInfo croaks.
* Fix whitespace in DB_File.xs
1.851 4 April Feb 2019
* Fix typo in MANIFEST with .travis.yml file
1.850 10 Feb 2019
* Added source to github
* Added .travis.yml
* Added t/meta-json.t & t/meta-yaml.t
1.843 2 November 2018
* hints file (sourced from
Highlighed by Sevan Janiyan <email@example.com>
1.842 14 July 2018
* Document the MaocOS build failures & how MacPort can work around the issue.
* Write all test db files into a directory created by File::Temp
Protects against any possible races if running a parallel build.
* #96357: DB_File destructor is not thread-safe
Added CLONE_SKIP to DB_File.pm and included the test db-threads.t from the patch.
Note - This only works with perl >= 5.8.7
1.841 2 Apr 2018
* #124944 allow ppport.h-less builds in core
1.840 29 Dec 2016
* #119569: Failed to install DB_File-1.839 into Linux
1.839 29 Dec 2016
* #119557: DB_File.xs: unused-parameter warnings
* #107642: unused arg
1.838 15 May 2016
* #101342: R_SETCURSOR compiler warning
#111726: Coverity finding: flagSet() test always false
1.837 9 Jan 2016
* DB_File: database UTF-8 documentation
* Coverity finding: status variable ignored multiple times
1.836 6 Jan 2016
* Confirm build with BDB 6.2
1.835 23 Dec 2014
* Silence more compiler warnings
1.834 11 Dec 2014
* Makefile.PL: version check is missing a zero
1.833 9 Dec 2014
* More Silence compiler warnings
* 1.832 breaks bleadperl C89 build
1.832 8 Dec 2014
* Silence compiler warnings
* #96126: build failure in blead
* C++ change from blead
1.831 15 November 2013
* C99 comment is a nogo
1.830 2 November 2013
* Memory leaks when failed to open db
* DB_File uses AutoLoader for no reason
1.829 7 July 2013
* make realclean: removing all files
* Documented the issue where the error below
BDB0588 At least one secondary cursor must be specified to DB->join
* DB_File installs to wrong place for CPAN version
Makefile.PL prevents INSTALLDIRS on command line.
RT #68287: Makefile.PL prevents INSTALLDIRS on command line.
* typo fix
1.828 7 May 2013
* Minor change to build with Berkeley DB 6.x
1.827 25 Jan 2012
* DB_File.pm - Don't use "@_" construct
1.826 25 Jan 2012
* t/db-btree.t - fix use of "length @array"
1.825 24 Jan 2012
* t/db-btree.t - fix use of "length @array"
1.824 6 Aug 2011
* Amendments to tests to work in blead
1.823 6 Aug 2011
* croak if attempt to freeze/thaw DB_File object
1.822 12 March 2011
* Link rot
[rt.cpan.org #68739]
1.822 12 March 2011
* Keep DB_File's warnings in sync with perl's
[rt.cpan.org #66339]
1.821 10 January 2011
* Fixed typos & spelling errors.
[perl #81792]
1.820 28 March 2009
* remove MAN3PODS from Makefile.PL to match core.
1.819 18 February 2009
* t/db-recno.t fails if run in a path that contains spaces
[rt.cpan.org #43288]
1.818 21 January 2009
* Updated Makefile.PL for Strawberry Perl.
Patch suggested by David Golden.
* Remove IRIX notes from README. The page referenced doesn't exist
1.817 27 March 2008
* Updated dbinfo
* Applied core patch 32299 - Re-apply change #30562
* Applied core patch 32208
* Applied core patch 32884 - use MM->parse_version() in Makefile.PL
* Applied core patch 32883 - Silence new warning grep in void context warning
* Applied core patch 32704 to remove use of PL_na in typemap
* Applied core patch 30562 to fix a build issue on OSF
1.816 28 October 2007
* Clarified the warning about building with a different version of
Berkeley DB that is used at runtime.
* Also made the boot version check less strict.
[rt.cpan.org #30013]
1.815 4 February 2007
* A few casting cleanups for building with C++ from Steve Peters.
* Fixed problem with recno which happened if you changed directory after
opening the database. Problem reported by Andrew Pam.
1.814 11 November 2005
* Fix from Dominic Dunlop to tidy up an OS-X specific warning in
* Silenced a warning about $DB_File::Error only being used once.
Issue spotted by Dominic Dunlop.
1.813 31st October 2005
* Updates for Berkeley DB 4.4
1.812 9th October 2005
* Added libscan to Makefile.PL
* Fixed test failing under windows
1.811 12th March 2005
* Fixed DBM filter bug in seq
1.810 7th August 2004
* Fixed db-hash.t for Cygwin
* Added substr tests to db-hast.t
* Documented AIX build problem in README.
1.809 20th June 2004
* Merged core patch 22258
* Merged core patch 22741
* Fixed core bug 30237.
Using substr to pass parameters to the low-level Berkeley DB interface
causes problems with Perl 5.8.1 or better.
typemap fix supplied by Marcus Holland-Moritz.
1.808 22nd December 2003
* Added extra DBM Filter tests.
* Fixed a memory leak in ParseOpenInfo, which whould occur if the
opening of the database failed. Leak spotted by Adrian Enache.
1.807 1st November 2003
* Fixed minor typos on pod documentation - reported by Jeremy Mates &
Mark Jason Dominus.
* dbinfo updated to report when a database is encrypted.
1.806 22nd October 2002
* Fixed problem when trying to build with a multi-threaded perl.
* Tidied up the recursion detection code.
* merged core patch 17844 - missing dTHX declarations.
* merged core patch 17838
1.805 1st September 2002
* Added support to allow DB_File to build with Berkeley DB 4.1.X
* Tightened up the test harness to test that calls to untie don't generate
the "untie attempted while %d inner references still exist" warning.
* added code to guard against calling the callbacks (compare,hash & prefix)
* passing undef for the flags and/or mode when opening a database could cause
a "Use of uninitialized value in subroutine entry" warning. Now silenced.
* DBM filter code beefed up to cope with read-only $_.
1.804 2nd June 2002
* Perl core patch 14939 added a new warning to "splice". This broke the
db-recno test harness. Fixed.
* merged core patches 16502 & 16540.
1.803 1st March 2002
* Fixed a problem with db-btree.t where it complained about an "our"
variable redeclaration.
* FETCH, STORE & DELETE don't map the flags parameter into the
equivalent Berkeley DB function anymore.
1.802 6th January 2002
* The message about some test failing in db-recno.t had the wrong test
numbers. Fixed.
* merged core patch 13942.
1.801 26th November 2001
* Fixed typo in Makefile.PL
* Added "clean" attribute to Makefile.PL
1.800 23rd November 2001
* use pport.h for perl backward compatibility code.
* use new ExtUtils::Constant module to generate XS constants.
* upgrade Makefile.PL upgrade/downgrade code to toggle "our" with
"use vars"
1.79 22nd October 2001
* Added a "local $SIG{__DIE__}" inside the eval that checks for
the presence of XSLoader s suggested by Andrew Hryckowin.
* merged core patch 12277.
* Changed NEXTKEY to not initialise the input key. It isn't used anyway.
1.79 22nd October 2001
* Fixed test harness for cygwin
1.78 30th July 2001
* the test in Makefile.PL for AIX used -plthreads. Should have been
* merged Core patches
10372, 10335, 10372, 10534, 10549, 10643, 11051, 11194, 11432
* added documentation patch regarding duplicate keys from Andrew Johnson
1.77 26th April 2001
* AIX is reported to need -lpthreads, so Makefile.PL now checks for
AIX and adds it to the link options.
* Minor documentation updates.
* Merged Core patch 9176
* Added a patch from Edward Avis that adds support for splice with
recno databases.
* Modified Makefile.PL to only enable the warnings pragma if using perl
5.6.1 or better.
1.76 15th January 2001
* Added instructions for using LD_PRELOAD to get Berkeley DB 2.x to work
with DB_File on Linux. Thanks to Norbert Bollow for sending details of
this approach.
1.75 17th December 2000
* Fixed perl core patch 7703
* Added support to allow DB_File to be built with Berkeley DB 3.2 --
btree_compare, btree_prefix and hash_cb needed to be changed.
* Updated dbinfo to support Berkeley DB 3.2 file format changes.
1.74 10th December 2000
* A "close" call in DB_File.xs needed parenthesised to stop win32 from
thinking it was one of its macros.
* Updated dbinfo to support Berkeley DB 3.1 file format changes.
* DB_File.pm & the test hasness now use the warnings pragma (when
* Included Perl core patch 7703 -- size argument for hash_cb is different
for Berkeley DB 3.x
* Included Perl core patch 7801 -- Give __getBerkeleyDBInfo the ANSI C
* @a = () produced the warning 'Argument "" isn't numeric in entersub'
This has been fixed. Thanks to Edward Avis for spotting this bug.
* Added note about building under Linux. Included patches.
* Included Perl core patch 8068 -- fix for bug 20001013.009
When run with warnings enabled "$hash{XX} = undef " produced an
"Uninitialized value" warning. This has been fixed.
1.73 31st May 2000
* Added support in version.c for building with threaded Perl.
* Berkeley DB 3.1 has reenabled support for null keys. The test
harness has been updated to reflect this.
1.72 16th January 2000
* Added hints/sco.pl
* The module will now use XSLoader when it is available. When it
isn't it will use DynaLoader.
* The locking section in DB_File.pm has been discredited. Many thanks
to David Harris for spotting the underlying problem, contributing
the updates to the documentation and writing DB_File::Lock (available
on CPAN).
1.71 7th September 1999
* Fixed a bug that prevented 1.70 from compiling under win32
* Updated to support Berkeley DB 3.x
* Updated dbinfo for Berkeley DB 3.x file formats.
1.70 4th August 1999
* Initialise $DB_File::db_ver and $DB_File::db_version with
GV_ADD|GV_ADDMULT -- bug spotted by Nick Ing-Simmons.
* Added a BOOT check to test for equivalent versions of db.h &
1.69 3rd August 1999
* fixed a bug in push -- DB_APPEND wasn't working properly.
* Fixed the R_SETCURSOR bug introduced in 1.68
* Added a new Perl variable $DB_File::db_ver
1.68 22nd July 1999
* Merged changes from 5.005_58
* Fixed a bug in R_IBEFORE & R_IAFTER processing in Berkeley DB
2 databases.
* Added some of the examples in the POD into the test harness.
1.67 6th June 1999
* Added DBM Filter documentation to DB_File.pm
* Fixed DBM Filter code to work with 5.004
* A few instances of newSVpvn were used in 1.66. This isn't available in
Perl 5.004_04 or earlier. Replaced with newSVpv.
1.66 15th March 1999
* Added DBM Filter code
1.65 6th March 1999
* Fixed a bug in the recno PUSH logic.
* The BOOT version check now needs 2.3.4 when using Berkeley DB version 2
1.64 21st February 1999
* Tidied the 1.x to 2.x flag mapping code.
* Added a patch from Mark Kettenis <email@example.com> to fix a flag
mapping problem with O_RDONLY on the Hurd
* Updated the message that db-recno.t prints when tests 51, 53 or 55 fail.
1.63 19th December 1998
* Fix to allow DB 2.6.x to build with DB_File
* Documentation updated to use push,pop etc in the RECNO example &
to include the find_dup & del_dup methods.
1.62 30th November 1998
Added hints/dynixptx.pl.
Fixed typemap -- 1.61 used PL_na instead of na
1.61 19th November 1998
Added a note to README about how to build Berkeley DB 2.x when
using HP-UX.
Minor modifications to get the module to build with DB 2.5.x
Fixed a typo in the definition of O_RDONLY, courtesy of Mark Kettenis.
Changed the test to check for full tied array support
Updated the license section.
Berkeley DB 2.4.10 disallows zero length keys. Tests 32 & 42 in
db-btree.t and test 27 in db-hash.t failed because of this change.
Those tests have been zapped.
Added dbinfo to the distribution.
Tied Array support was enhanced in Perl 5.004_57. DB_File now
supports PUSH,POP,SHIFT,UNSHIFT & STORESIZE.
Fixed a problem with the use of sv_setpvn. When the size is
specified as 0, it does a strlen on the data. This was ok for DB
1.x, but isn't for DB 2.x.
If Perl has been compiled with Threads support,the symbol op will be
defined. This clashes with a field name in db.h, so it needs to be
#undef'ed before db.h is included.
Documented the Solaris 2.5 mutex bug
Merged 1.16 changes.
Fixed a small bug in the test harness when run under win32
The emulation of fd when useing DB 2.x was busted.
Added DB_RENUMBER to flags for recno.
Patch from Nick Ing-Simmons now allows DB_File to build on NT.
Merged 1.15 patch.
Fixed the test harness so that it doesn't expect DB_File to have
been installed by the main Perl build.
Fixed a bug in mapping 1.x O_RDONLY flag to 2.x DB_RDONLY equivalent
DB_File can now build with either DB 1.x or 2.x, but not both at
the same time.
A harmless looking tab was causing Makefile.PL to fail on AIX 3.2.5
Small fix for the AIX strict C compiler XLC which doesn't like
__attribute__ being defined via proto.h and redefined via db.h. Fix
courtesy of Jarkko Hietaniemi.
Patch from Gisle Aas <firstname.lastname@example.com> to suppress "use of undefined
value" warning with db_get and db_seq.
Patch from Gisle Aas <firstname.lastname@example.com> to make DB_File export only the
O_* constants from Fcntl.
Removed the DESTROY method from the DB_File::HASHINFO module.
Previously DB_File hard-wired the class name of any object that it
created to "DB_File". This makes sub-classing difficult. Now
DB_File creats objects in the namespace of the package it has been
inherited into.
Made it illegal to tie an associative array to a RECNO database and
an ordinary array to a HASH or BTREE database.
Minor changes to DB_FIle.xs and DB_File.pm
Documented the incompatibility with version 2 of Berkeley DB.
Documented the untie gotcha.
Fixed fd method so that it still returns -1 for in-memory files
when db 1.86 is used.
Minor bug fix in DB_File::HASHINFO, DB_File::RECNOINFO and
Changed default mode to 0666.
Documented operation of bval.
Fixed bug with RECNO, where bval wasn't defaulting to "\n".
Minor namespace cleanup: Localized PrintBtree.
Made all scripts in the documentation strict and -w clean.
Added logic to DB_File.xs to allow the module to be built after
Perl is installed.
Minor documentation changes.
Fixed a bug in hash_cb. Patches supplied by Dave Hammen,
Fixed a bug with the constructors for DB_File::HASHINFO,
DB_File::BTREEINFO and DB_File::RECNOINFO. Also tidied up the
constructors to make them -w clean.
Reworked part of the test harness to be more locale friendly.
Documentation update.
DB_File now imports the constants (O_RDWR, O_CREAT etc.) from Fcntl
The standard hash function exists is now supported.
Modified the behavior of get_dup. When it returns an associative
array, the value is the count of the number of matching BTREE
Merged OS/2 specific code into DB_File.xs
Removed some redundant code in DB_File.xs.
Documentation update.
Allow negative subscripts with RECNO interface.
Changed the default flags from O_RDWR to O_CREAT|O_RDWR.
The example code which showed how to lock a database needed a call
to sync added. Without it the resultant database file was empty.
Added get_dup method.
Fixed a core dump problem with SunOS.
The return value from TIEHASH wasn't set to NULL when dbopen
returned an error.
DB_File has been in use for over a year. To reflect that, the
version number has been incremented to 1.0.
Added complete support for multiple concurrent callbacks.
Using the push method on an empty list didn't work properly. This
has been fixed.
Added prototype support for multiple btree compare callbacks.
When DB_File is opening a database file it no longer terminates the
process if dbopen returned an error. This allows file protection
errors to be caught at run time. Thanks to Judith Grass
<firstname.lastname@example.com> for spotting the bug.
First Release.


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Aside from making the quantified dollars and cents business case for embracing sustainability as a broad concept or specific sustainability initiatives on an infrastructure construction project for example (which is obviously extremely important!), there are other important considerations in terms of your approach to keep in mind:
- Sustainability does not have to cost more.
- Value can be demonstrated at different levels – commercial, risk management, reputational, long-term brand value.
- Use what you already have, make use of the resources and skills available to you, and things that are already being done that can be built from.
- Rebadge the word "sustainability", where appropriate. If people don't understand the term, or have negative or preconceived notions associated with the term then use something else.
- Bring in more dimensions than you'd perhaps initially thought about to "leap the hurdle" in a given business case. Take a wider and higher perspective on things.
- Put yourselves in others shoes and their perspectives.
- See dissenters and nay-sayers as a gift – they're telling you what it is you need to work on in your approach or business case, sometimes indirectly, sometimes more directly!
- Be resilient and politely tenacious.
- Be optimistic!


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Baked Chicken: This is one of those dishes that is most loved in every family and always everyone prefers this baked chicken in dinner. This dish you be enjoyed if served with Rice. Or if you cook both the Baked Chicken and rice together.
How to Make Baked Chicken Breast?
They are great with rice grilled veggies or pasta on their own! And they also taste delicious in salads & sandwiches. This Baked Chicken Breast is truly easy and a versatile recipe that you will always love to have. However, anyone who has cooked Baked chicken breasts before can tell you how difficult it is, especially when you are making it in an oven. If you cook them in the wrong way then you end up with a rubbery which is hard to chew, dry, flavorless and non-juicy Baked Chicken Breast. So, make sure you cook them very carefully. Follow the instruction below.
- Preheat oven to 400F.
- Lightly grease your baking dish(9×13) with cooking spray.
- Place your chicken breasts in baking dish and over each chicken breast rub the minced garlic.
- Season chicken on both sides with garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Over each chicken breast, place a pat of butter.
- Place a sheet of parchment paper. Tuck in the edges
- Bake until chicken's internal temperature reaches 165F for 30 to 33 minutes.
- Remove from baking dish and serve right away.
How to Make Baked Chicken Thighs?
Just with a few ingredients, Baked chicken thighs are so easy to make just in one pan! The most amazing oven baked chicken thighs! These Baked chicken thighs are amazingly juicy & tender inside and crispy on the outside. And if you want to make it low in carbs then ranch will work here. They are so delicious and are perfect for meal prep, potlucks, dinner parties, or busy weeknight dinners. I love ranch dressing seasonings in casseroles & soups, on chicken thighs, pork chops, and pasta.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees. For easy cleanup, Line a large baking sheet with foil and set aside.
- Remove the thighs from their packaging and with paper towels pat them dry.
- On the prepared baking sheet arrange the thighs and drizzle with the olive oil over both sides of the chicken thighs.
- In a small bowl mix together the pepper, garlic powder, salt, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Sprinkle the spices over the chicken.
Also, Check these Chicken Recipes:
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken
- Heat your oven and bake the chicken for 35-45 minutes.
- Melt butter in the rectangular baking dish, Heat should be 425°F.
- Stir together paprika, salt, all-purpose baking mix, and pepper; coat chicken. Make sure the dish and butter should be hot and then place skin sides down in the dish.
- Flip chicken and bake for 35 minutes. Bake until juice is no longer pink from the center about 15 minutes longer.
Still Hungry!! Try these delicious chicken recipes:
Serves 4199
Simply delicious! Baked Chicken Breast is truly easy and a versatile recipe and so are the Baked chicken thighs and oven baked chicken.
15 minPrep Time
45 minCook Time
1 hrTotal Time
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 container (5 ounces) plain Greek Yogurt
- Preheat oven to 375° F.
- With the non-stick cooking spray, spray the baking dish.
- Combine Parmesan cheese, yogurt, and seasonings.
- Spread over chicken breasts. Bake until chicken is cooked through and no longer pink from inside for about 45 minutes, and topping is browned. Serve immediately.
So, Guys, I hope you enjoy this Baked Chicken Recipe which I make on weekly basis. All the Chicken Lovers who are looking for Baked Chicken will enjoy this recipe. And if you like this recipe then Don't forget to share it with your friends on Pinterest, Facebook, and other social media platforms. And do follow us on facebook, twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr, and Instagram.


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Take a BreakBook now and save 15%
Take a break with us and save 15%. But this offer won't last long!
This is a carousel with auto-rotating slides. Activate any of the buttons to disable rotation. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate, or jump to a slide using the slide dots.
The award-winning Omni Bedford Springs Resort is the ideal destination for you to reconnect with friends and family, located in the Allegheny Mountains of Pennsylvania. From our world-class Springs Eternal Spa to our magnificently restored golf course and relaxing indoor and outdoor pools, our Pennsylvania resort provides an upscale experience for our guests. We're home to spacious guest rooms, delectable dining venues and cutting-edge conference rooms — preserving all our original historic charm with the addition of modern comforts at our hotel.
Experience the inspired renovations and expansions of this grand resort.
2138 Business 220, Bedford, Pennsylvania 15522
Phone: (814) 623-8100
Concierge: (814) 624-5633
At Omni Bedford Springs Resort, we want to create an experience that will last a lifetime – or until the next time you decide to come visit.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate, or jump to a slide using the slide dots.
Take a break with us and save 15%. But this offer won't last long!
Enjoy a two-night stay at Omni Bedford Springs Resort and receive a $100 resort credit to use toward spa, golf, dining or activities.
Create lasting memories with a gift card to experience Omni.
Named #1 Golf Resort Course in Pennsylvania by Golfweek magazine and one of the country's first golf courses, our historic Old Course offers breathtaking views and challenges for golfers of all levels. The Old Course spans the work of three architectural masters - Donald Ross, Spencer Oldham, and A.W. Tillinghast.View More
Experience total relaxation, nurture your skin or refresh your outlook at our spa resort in PA. The Springs Eternal Spa offers a variety of wellness treatments and a special Bedford Bath Ritual that is unique and the ultimate retreat. Plan your spa day today!View More
With premier food and wine experiences, our Pennsylvania resort's dining options are guaranteed to please every palate. Choose your dining adventure at our on-site restaurants, from fine dining to more casual fare, including a Prohibition-inspired lobby bar and a coffee shop.View More
Make memories together and renew the spirit of outdoor adventure with a variety of resort activities for everyone. Every season brings new opportunities to reconnect with friends and family with outdoor activities, perfect to make your Pennsylvania vacation an unforgettable experience.View More
Pricing and availability based on your current search, and exclude taxes and fees.
Explore Omni Bedford Springs Resort through the eyes of our guests. Share your photos with #AtTheOmni.
Explore the sights of our 2,200-acre, world-class resort in Bedford, PA.
Our elegant crystal rooms at Omni Bedford Springs Resort are designed to provide a luxury wedding resort experience for your special day. Find the perfect wedding package for your special occasion or learn more about meeting and conference facilities offered at this our Bedford, PA hotel.
Omni Bedford Springs Resort offers a variety of resort activities, including:
No, you do not have to be a guest or member of the resort to play golf. To reserve your tee time prior to arrival, please contact the Resort Pro Shop (814) 624-5637
To inquire about resort memberships, contact us at (814) 623-8100.
Omni Bedford Springs Resort is located near the following airports:
Valet parking is included in the resort service charge. There is no self-parking available on the resort property. Please allow our professional staff to valet your vehicle at the resort main entrance. Electric Charging Stations are available.
The hotel's preferred transportation vendor is:


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If you want to disable NTLM and move to Kerberos in an active directory environment, you'll need to follow this process.
- Enable auditing (covered in this post)
- Reconfigure applications to use Service Principal Name (SPN)
- Whitelist allowed NTLM servers
- Configure blocking
The first step is to enable auditing on your domain controllers. The easiest way is by creating a GPO and applying it to an OU containing your DC's. Here's what mine looks like:
Once defined, use splunk (or other) to capture all logs created here:
Applications and Services Logs -> Microsoft -> Windows -> NTLM -> Operational
My splunk inputs.conf looks like this:
disabled = 0
index = msad
Splunk Query:
index=msad sourcetype="WinEventLog:Microsoft-Windows-NTLM/Operational


text:
The CW has a new drama in the works. Deadline reports the network is developing a new series called Stick Man.
The supernatural drama comes from Helix creator Cameron Prosandeh and Heroes creator Tim Kring.
Stick Man "centers on an amateur documentarian who returns to her hometown to chronicle the events of her brother's murder and the ensuing trial (a la true crime docuseries in the vein of Making a Murderer). While there, she finds herself increasingly sympathetic to the convicted killer, ultimately discovering evidence that links her brother's death to supernatural events."
What do you think? Are you a fan of Helix and/or Heroes? Would you watch Stick Man?


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The news that a Black family newly moved into Delano, Minnesota had had their home broken into, burglarized, and covered with racist and fascist graffiti, is heartbreaking. This family is also related to one of our local members. Please consider supporting them financially if you can; if they continue in their decision to leave Delano, … Continue reading Support Victims of Racist Burglary and Vandalism in Delano, Minnesota
All Out Against Fascism and Hate on March 31st!
A downloadable version of this Press Release may be downloaded here: gdc.14.2017.03.17.M31.PR.1. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: The Twin Cities General Defense Committee, Local 14 Email: email@example.com Date: March 22, 2017 STAND FOR EACH OTHER! STOP FASCISM & HATE - ALL OUT ON MARCH 31st! In solidarity with the antifascist who was shot and nearly murdered in … Continue reading All Out Against Fascism and Hate on March 31st!
New Anti-Police Terror Working Group Page
[UPDATE: This post originally and mistakenly linked to another organization's anti police terror project. This post is not properly updated with a link to the GDC Anti-Police Terror Working Group's vision statement.] The Twin Cities GDC Local 14's Anti-Police Terror Working Group has released their first public vision and position document, which you can find here. … Continue reading New Anti-Police Terror Working Group Page
Interview with IWW/GDC Survivor of UW Shooting
The KEXP 90.3 radio program Mind over Matters has recorded a roughly 30-minute interview with Fellow Worker Hex, the IWW and GDC member who was shot on January 20th outside of the Milo Yiannopoulos event on the campus of University of Washington, Seattle.
Twin Cities Anti-Fascists Smash 'White Lives Matter' Rally
Fascists attempted to hold a "White Lives Matter" rally at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. An anti-fascist coalition exposed them and prevented them from organizing, facing fascist violence in retribution. Anti-fascists were unharmed in the scuffle.
Seattle IWW Interview about UW Shooting
A 17 minute interview with the IWW Seattle Press Secretary, offering updates on the UW Shooting (1/20/17) and the need for working-class defense against fascists.
Interview on militant tactics with GDC member
An interview with DACA student from UC Berkeley, and anti-fascist GDC member, regarding the shutdown of Milo Yiannopoulos' planned event at UC Berkeley, and the use of militant tactics against the far right.
University Administrations that Host Alt-Right Events Risk Our Safety; Yiannopoulos Routinely Incites Violence at Campus Events
University administrations are collaborating with violent fascists, sexists, and racists, claiming that the first amendment prevents them from securing the safety of their campus communities.
Shooter of unarmed anti-racist walks free; Authorities silent.
A second press release from the General Defense Committee on the shooting of a member on the University of Washington's Seattle campus on Friday, January 20.
Solidarity Letter to Seattle FW from Sweden
Received from "Stockholm/Swedish Syndicalists" "As a local branch we are stunned by the new of shooting of a Fellow Worker (FW) and comrade. Not surprising though, after what we understand what is happening in the US. Please let us know if more help is needed. Please forward - when and if possible - our solidarity … Continue reading Solidarity Letter to Seattle FW from Sweden


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Do you like the band U2? This lesson uses the popular song done by Bono "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For." Listen and sing along with the text of the lyrics of the song, then complete the song with the missing words. Excellent practice for the present perfect tense.
Resource URL:
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Lower Intermediate


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Smoked Pumpkin Cheesecake, Apple Cider Honey, Apples and Nutmeg Crema
"Every summer at the restaurant (Chandler's in Petoskey), we bring on a lot of new cooks. One year a cook named Mike, from Colorado, showed up looking for a job, and we hired him. After working with us for a few months, he asked if I had ever had smoked pumpkin cheesecake, and our favorite fall dessert was born. As a chef, it's important to never stop learning—my cooks teach me as much as I teach them. At the restaurant, we make a smoker with a deep pan and a perforated pan over the top, and then use another pan for a lid. I suggest doing the same at home. You can re-up the chips (I prefer apple wood) in a separate pan and just transfer to the smoker setup. Very little smoke is needed, so just a smoldering is good." —Chef Tommy Kaszubowski
For the cheesecake:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1⁄4 cup butter, melted
- 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened, divided
- 1 cup roasted pumpkin puree (see main text) or canned pumpkin
- 11⁄2 cups sugar, divided
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 11⁄2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 apple, julienned
- Freshly grated nutmeg for serving
For the cider honey:
- 1 quart apple cider
For the nutmeg crema:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1⁄4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and press onto the bottom of a springform pan (if some crumbs are left over, reserve for another use). Bake for about 10 minutes until set; cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes. For the filling, put the cream cheese and pumpkin puree into separate open foil packets (like little pans); transfer to the smoker setup and smoke briefly. Cool to room temperature before using. In a large bowl, beat one-fourth of the cream cheese, 1⁄2 cup sugar and the cornstarch until smooth, about 2 minutes. Beat in remaining cream cheese, one package at a time, until smooth. Add remaining sugar and vanilla. Add eggs and beat on low speed just until combined. Stir pumpkin, cinnamon and nutmeg into the cream cheese mixture and pour over crust. Wrap springform pan in aluminum foil (to prevent from water seeping in) and place in a large baking pan; add 1 inch of hot water to larger pan. Bake 55 to 65 minutes, or until center is just set and top appears dull. Remove springform pan from water bath. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around edge of pan to loosen; cool one hour longer. Refrigerate overnight.
Assembly: When ready to serve, cut cheese cake into 12 portions, using a warm, wet knife, wiping between each cut. Transfer each piece to a plate and garnish with the crema, julienned apples, a drizzle of cider honey, and freshly grated nutmeg.


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Platform work: Skills use and skills development
Platform work is a form of employment that uses an online platform to enable organisations or individuals to access other organisations or individuals to solve problems or to provide services in exchange for payment. While small in scale, platform work in Europe is diverse, with the different types of platform work having a different impact on the working conditions of platform workers as well as on the labour market.
- Platform economy repository: Typology of platform work
Skills use in platform work
Types of platform work that are related to small-scale tasks that require general skills or a low level of specific skills are widely recognised as an opportunity to provide labour market access. Often, also population groups disadvantaged on or further away from the labour market have the skills required for these tasks and can benefit from platform work to earn (additional) income and gain or enhance work experience. However, basic digital skills – in terms of being able to work through the platform, for example uploading one's profile, search and bid for tasks, and partly conduct the work online – are an essential pre-requisite for conducting platform work.
However, available research also shows that many platform workers are highly educated, but nevertheless conduct low-qualified tasks. Accordingly, skills mismatch and overqualification is common for platform-mediated routine tasks. If highly skilled workers engage over a longer term in low-skilled basic routine tasks, there arises a risk of deskilling. From a labour market perspective this can be particularly problematic if the workers get locked in in platform work while they would prefer a job with more favourable working conditions in the traditional economy, but cannot transition.
In platform work requiring moderate to higher skills, workers are in a better position to use their skills, including those informally required and potentially not recognised in the traditional economy.
Limited occupational skills development in platform work
Low-skilled, small-scale basic routine tasks mediated through online platforms or apps (such as online click-work, food delivery, person transport) offer limited on-the-job learning opportunities for occupational skills due to the nature of the tasks.
Also in higher-skilled tasks and larger projects, as for example found in the creative industries (for example, translations, design, programming) skills development tends to be limited as workers rather opt for tasks for which they already have the skills in order to maximise their time use/earnings ratio. However, there also are platform workers, notably young professionals entering the labour market, who use this type of work to gain practical experience and further develop their skills through work experience with low entry barriers.
- Cedefop seminar: Skills development of workers in the platform economy: anticipating the future of work and learning
- Platform economy database: Employability and career progression
Opportunity to develop transversal and entrepreneurial skills
Some types of platform work can be strategically used to try out self-employment or enhance an already ongoing self-employed activity. This, for example, relates to professional household services (like plumbing, gardening) or to activities in the creative industries (such as translations, design, programming). Self-employed already active in these fields can use platforms to fill idle times or to increase their client stock. Employees or labour market entrants can use platforms as an easy-entry and low-risk mode to explore a self-employed activity.
By doing so, workers can test and further develop transversal and entrepreneurial skills, such as communication, dealing with clients, self-organisation, management etc. Fostering the awareness of this potential, and encouraging (future) self-employed to strategically use platforms for this purpose could be an innovative policy angle.
Emerging initiatives to foster training in platform work
Several platforms offer training for their workers. While in many cases this is limited to issues related to how to deal with the system, in some cases they give practical tips on how to deal with clients or even offer occupational training.
It has to be noted that platforms tend to be cautious to offer such training as this might be interpreted by labour courts as an indication for an employment relationship in case they contract the workers as self-employed and this status is questioned. On the other hand, some platforms willingly offer additional services like training to the workers, to achieve a competitive edge over other platforms to attract and retain clients (due to better service quality) and workers (due to more beneficial conditions).
From a policy perspective, finding a balance between incentivising platforms to offer such services without the risk to be brought to court if they engage in genuine self-employment relationships with the workers could be considered.
- Platform economy initiatives: Training


text: Does anyone know if the strip at Painter Creek is still in use? The one West of Mother Goose Lake in the mountains. Have not been in there since Alaska Air was flying in C-130's to an oil camp. I think there might be a lodge there now and I would like to know for certain as I would like to go for a visit. Also, a friend wants to know if anyone with a transport liciense would fly him out hunting next year out of Pilot Point or King Salmon on a per hour charge. I think where he wants to go will take a 185 on floats but he may need a Cub to get into some lakes.


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This simply scrumptious summer salad reminded me of the summer meals of my youth, helping my dad grill up some burgers or steaks while setting the table on the patio and laying out the platters and bowls of fresh veggies from my mother's garden. Many of those dishes featured her green beans, which she plucked from carefully tended vines in the plot across from the house.
While I'm not a gardener, fresh produce isn't hard to come by during such a lovely summer, so given the opportunity, I picked up a large helping of fresh green beans with the intention of creating a simple salad like mom used to make.
- 2 lbs green beans – trimmed
- 1 large red pepper – sliced thin
- 1 medium green pepper – sliced thin
- 1/2 large red onion – sliced very thin (I used a mandolin)
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
- Salt and pepper
Begin by slicing the onion very thin and soaking the slices in the vinegar and olive oil. I like to add a little salt and pepper as well at this stage.
By soaking the onions first (for 10-15 minutes on their own), you can impart massive flavor while simultaneously removing the "oniony" bite. This works well for us, considering I LOVE raw onions, but my wife isn't a fan of the pungent, acrid ("oniony") flavor inherent therein.
As the onions are soaking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil, and cook green beans: drop split beans in boiling water for 4 minutes. Strain and rinse.
Slice peppers and basil.
Toss all ingredients together just before serving.
Salt and pepper to taste.


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Blue Jean Ball art
Grab your favorite boots and jeans and join the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia (HSSCG) on November 8th for their annual Blue Jean Ball fundraiser. The evening will be set under the majestic oaks of Sinclair Plantation, the home of Robin and Davis Love. They are generous and gracious hosts and HSSCG is appreciative that they have opened their home once again for this worthy cause.
The festivities will begin with live music by popular local band Suzy and the Bird Dogs. As you enter, you'll be welcomed with the offer of a signature bourbon cocktail. Delicious local food will be provided by Marshside Grill, Porch, and The Crab Trap. If you have not had the pleasure of dining at these establishments prior to the Blue Jean Ball, you will be pleasantly surprised. Better yet, dine at these locations and thank them for joining the Blue Jean Ball.
There will also be an open bar where you can gather with your friends and family and enjoy a refreshing beverage. Southern Eagle will have their own bar set up serving premium beer.
As you make your way through the barn, you will see a variety of high-quality and exciting silent auction items. Some of this year's items include excursions, jewelry by S. Carter Designs, a designer handbag from Sorella, and original artwork by Sally King Benedict. If a silent auction is too tame for you, there will be an entertaining live auction as well with auctioneer John Rothermel.
One live auction item will be a custom piece of art created for the Humane Society by world-renowned artist Steve Penley. Penley has created projects for Fox News, Coca-Cola, and several U.S. Presidents. He has graciously provided HSSCG with an original work for the auction every year. Another sneak peek into the live auction reveals one-of-a-kind excursions including a scenic ski trip in the beautiful mountains of Telluride, Colorado with four nights lodging for two at the Inn at Lost Creek. While there, you can enjoy complimentary lift tickets or golfing if you prefer a more relaxing activity. For the equine enthusiasts and bourbon connoisseur, offered up for bid will be a weekend package to Kentucky, the horse capital of the world. Enjoy a visit to the members-only exclusive Keeneland Club in Lexington and a private tour of Castle and Key Distillery. All Blue Jean Ball auction items have been generously donated by supporters of the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia. We send a heartfelt thank you to all of them.
A highlight of the evening's entertainment will include the Heads or Tails game with emcee
Keenan Carter. If you have a competitive spirit, you just hit the jackpot. This is how the game is played: Everyone who has purchased game necklaces will be asked to join in. Participants will select either "heads" or "tails" by putting their hands on their head or their tail! The auctioneer flips a coin. Those participants whose choice matches the coin flip will get to continue playing; everyone else will lose a necklace. The game will continue until the last person is standing. This is always a spirited part of our evening. The Junior Board will have the necklaces for sale at check-in and all throughout our venue so you can join the excitement.
As the evening moves along, put your dancing boots on and get ready to boogie the night away. DJ Weav (Dr. John Weaver) will spin the tunes as a perfect way to round out this sensational celebration. And if you're having so much fun that you can't remember all the details, no worries! Memories will be captured by local photographers from The Darkroom Photography on St. Simons Island.
Proceeds from the Blue Jean Ball benefit the animals of the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia, helping them to provide care, love, and medical attention to over a thousand animals a year. Animals like Georgia, a two-year-old hound mix, brought to HSSCG in January of this year by a concerned citizen who was kind enough to pick her up. This precious girl had been abandoned, tied to a tree in the woods with her seven 6-week-old puppies. Georgia was emaciated and in very poor health. She suffered from malnutrition and the worst skin infection our medical department had ever seen. Although the puppies were quickly adopted, Georgia had multiple ongoing health issues. A news station in Jacksonville picked up her story and generated a lot of interest. One hound-loving family who read Georgia's story decided she would be the perfect addition. After 5 months of intensive medical care, she was able to be adopted. They drove hours to make her part of their family. Georgia and her two-legged pack are currently residing in the Sunshine State.
HSSCG wants to continue making happy tales like Georgia's possible. They are only able to do so with your support. The Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia is not affiliated with the Humane Society of the United States; nor do they receive any governmental assistance. They are 100% funded by the kindness of this very special community and they appreciate the support of Glynn County and other generous donors and volunteers. The Blue Jean Ball is the perfect opportunity for you to have a wonderful time with friends while helping animals in need.
To purchase tickets to the Blue Jean Ball and get more details, visit hsscg.org/blue-jean-ball. If you can't make it to our event and would like to donate, please visit hsscg.org/donate.


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No Other Name Under Heaven
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Source: Acts 4:12 (NIV) Christ. Follow Christ. Be a Christian. The central message of the New Testament. Many Americans have even begun to use being "Christian" as a litmus test for the presidency. This month I… Continue reading


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When blogger Kathleen Kerridge clicked "submit", she had no idea what she had let herself in for.
"I had no idea of the storm that was about to be unleashed. Day two brought over a quarter-million people to my article and the responses were so heartfelt and honest that I was left reeling. Thousands upon thousands of people, in exactly the same predicament, began messaging me, emailing me and finding my Facebook page. Literally thousands. It was a constant stream of cries for help, offers of support, asking for advice, giving advice, telling me there was help, support networks being formed…"
Kerridge had written a post entitled "The Upsetting Reality of Modern Day Poverty" (read it here). In it she describes, in heart-breaking detail, the difficulty of feeding a household of five on a budget of just £45 per week. She decided to speak out after watching celebrity chef Jamie Oliver's show…
View original post 1,238 more words


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Wakeboard Krk package offers: riding, gear, instructor + house special drink
We kindly offer half day and whole day arrangements suitable for both individuals and announced groups of 5 or more guests.
All guests are welcomed by a host who provides them with all the necessary explanations and helps them choose the gear and get ready for action. Our staff will make sure that all visitors get relevant instructions, appropriate gear and learning assistance.
Take a look at this video to see how it works:
half day arrangement 46 €
Groups of 6-19 persons: 10 to 14 or 14 to 18 hours
Unlimited riding 4 hours during the cable public hours
Groups of +20 persons: 9 to 12 or 13 hours
1-hour morning school – the cable is reserved exclusively for the group; if there are more than 40 persons, two groups will be organized and each will have a 1-hour class; then unlimited riding in the duration of two hours
or 14 to 18 hours – unlimited riding four hours during the cable public hours
whole day arrangement 55 €
Daily pass – unlimited riding throughout the day during the public hours
optional: lunch 14 €
Lunch is served on the roofed terrace of the restaurant. The deck chairs on the terrace on the upper floor are at the guests' disposal while visiting Cable Krk.
1 EUR is app. 7,5 Croatian kuna (kn or HRK)
Both arrangements include:
– lifejacket , skis, wakeboard and suit rental
– services of two instructors and a boat at disposal at all times during the visit
– a house special drink
– the offer can include lunch: a menu of your choice – fish or meat with a side dish, a salad and a house special cocktail
– arrangements can also include a shuttle service from anywhere on the island trough our partner agency Aurea, price of the service depending on number of persons
We hope you'll find this offer interesting, for any further info please contact us by e-mail or GSM +385 91 262 73 02.


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Ken's Bamboo Style Pen in Cumberland Ebonite
Back in the winter, I was browsing through the pens on Ken Cavers' site and grew more and more intrigued by his Bamboo style pens. The shape is just so cool and unlike any other pen I own. And the materials? Wow. But I held off for a bit, having just come off of the Christmas spending season.
THIS entry, though, did me in. We were traveling home from a Valentine's dinner with friends, I checked my phone, read Ken's post, and emailed him immediately. From the car. I needed a Bamboo pen, STAT. In Cumberland Ebonite, please.
While Ken's a talented pen-maker, he's also a doctor, up to his eyeballs in busy-ness. And his pens have become very popular, so Ken let me know that there'd be a bit of a wait. No problem. It just felt good to be on the list.
My pen arrived in late May, and was well worth the wait. I own one of Ken's Tiger Stripey pens, so I knew what to expect…gorgeous materials expertly crafted into a stunning pen. And that's exactly what I received.
The Cumberland Ebonite smells a touch odd (a little "eggy"), but more than makes up for that in looks. There's a bit of a wood-grain pattern that suits the bamboo shape perfectly. The black-cherry color is rich and warm and interestingly subtle.
I ordered a fine nib (no surprise there), and loaded the included converter with my new favorite black ink, Monteverde's Black. The nib lays down a line that is nicely wet and smooth; so smooth that words flow effortlessly from my head, through the pen, and onto the page.
Bamboo Style vs. TWSBI Micarta
At a capped length of 6″, uncapped length of 5.5″, and a diameter of approximately 5/8″, this is a good-sized pen. The section is nicely contoured, measures about 3/8″ in diameter, and is very comfortable to hold. Despite its size, the pen isn't heavy, yet feels substantial. The ebonite is warm to the touch and glassy-smooth. I like everything about the look and feel of Ken's handiwork.
So this is my second pen from Ken, but my first Bamboo style as well as my first ebonite pen. Something tells me I'll be going back for more.
I mean, check out this pocket pen. Oh, my.
Dr. Ken, I'll kill time in your waiting room any day.


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RT @EMInvestment: Sovereign wealth funds more committed to fighting climate change, survey says @pensionsnews covers @IFSWF &… https://t.co/pmijc4O9Fi
4 days 15 hours ago
Greater #transparency: In 2022, they were becoming more transparent and structured in their #reporting. The number… https://t.co/vRk8U7FaV7
6 days 14 hours ago
Sovereign wealth funds expect more accountability: They expect their asset managers to report on #climatechange. In… https://t.co/76BLxZOWYP


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Our No Bummer Summer highlights continue this week with four of our favorite summer concerts from Greensky Bluegrass, The Infamous Stringdusters, Yonder Mountain String Band, and Billy Strings. Read all about these shows, give them a listen in the nugs.net app, then get ready to see them on the road this summer!
Camp Greensky Music Festival, Wellston, MI – June 8, 2019
We can't wait to return to Camp Greensky in 2022. Greensky Bluegrass' home festival is a bluegrass mecca that takes place in Wellston, Michigan each year, AKA the most beautiful place in the world to host a summer bluegrass festival. If you're itching for a taste of Camp Greensky, put on this classic performance from 2019's festival. Towards the end of the first set, Lindsey Lou lends her vocals to "In Control." Later, Lyle Brewer joins on Guitar for "Wings for Wheels", and a wildly fun jam on "Kerosene."
Red Rocks, Morrison, CO – August 4, 2018
It's common knowledge Bluegrass is best enjoyed outdoors and in the summer. With that in mind, an August Infamous Stringdusters concert at Red Rocks might just be heaven on earth. The Dusters are in peak form during this 2018 string-filled performance. Check out their cover of Grateful Dead's "Tennessee Jed" about halfway through the set and enjoy the full spectrum of jamgrass. One thing's for sure, we can't wait to get back to Red Rocks this summer for even more bluegrass.
Summer Camp, Chillicothe, IL – May 25, 2018
Summer Camp Music Festival returns this August with a massive lineup of the biggest names in jam, bluegrass, electronica, and more. Even though it's not happening in May this year, we can still enjoy audio from Summer Camps past, like this classic 2018 performance from Yonder Mountain String Band. There are some great guests on this one including Al Schnier on guitar for "Damn Your Eyes." Later, Keller Williams provides enough cowbell on "Don't Fear The Reaper" to satisfy even Christopher Walken.
Blue Ox Music Festival, Eau Claire, WI – June 15, 2019
Billy. Strings. What more is there to say about the ascendent king of bluegrass? No one commands a guitar quite like Billy and every time he takes the stage it's a mind blowing unique experience. As Billy gets back on the road this summer, listen to audio from his 2019 performance at Blue Ox Music Festival in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. It's a wild and mesmerizing ride at one of the most fun bluegrass festivals in America. Banjoist Cory Walker joins Billy for a show highlight version of "Black Clouds." One listen and you'll understand why you need to see Billy live this summer.


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Roadmap for the JLPT: Here's What You Need to Know
"JLPT" stands for Japanese Language Proficiency Test. The JLPT is one of the most well-known international Japanese proficiency exams. It has five levels, with level five (officially called N5) being the easiest and level one (N1) being the hardest.
The Japanese name of the test is the Nihongo Noryoku Shiken (日本語能力試験). In this article, we will be discussing the following:
- Differences between the levels of the JLPT
- Why take or not take the JLPT
- Advice on planning a course of study if your goal is to take the N2 or N1.
The JLPT Levels
The JLPT used to have four levels but is now divided into five (N5, N4, N3, N2, and N1). Which level you register to take is up to you. If you are trying to decide which level you are at currently, you can find sample questions on the JLPT website.
What's the difference with these JLPT levels?
The difference between the various levels of the JLPT is the recommended amount of vocabulary words, kanji, and grammar patterns that you should know in order to pass.
To pass the N5, you will need to know about 100 kanji and about 800 vocabulary words.
To pass the N4, you will need to know about 300 kanji and about 1,500 vocabulary words.
To pass the N3, you will need to know about 650 kanji and about 3,700 vocabulary words.
To pass the N2, you will need to know about 1,000 kanji and about 6,000 vocabulary words.
To pass the N1, you will need to know about 2,000 kanji and about 10,000 vocabulary words.
On websites such as tanos.co.uk, you can find semi-official lists of kanji, vocabulary, and grammar points for each JLPT level.
Taking the JLPT – Pros and Cons
The pros and cons depend on the following:
- Depending on why you are learning Japanese
- What your plans for the future are,
- Which level of the JLPT you are taking,
- and other factors
Passing the test may be extremely useful to you or not very useful at all. So first we will look at the pros, and then the cons of taking the JLPT.
1. Can help in determining study goals
As discussed above, each level of the JLPT has a recommended number of kanji, vocabulary words, and grammar points that you need to be familiar with in order to pass. You can find the recommended kanji, vocabulary words, and grammar points for each level in semi-official lists online.
Because of this, many people who are studying independently find studying for particular levels of the JLPT a helpful method of determining study goals and checklists for themselves. Even if they have no intention of taking the test. For example, if they are not sure what grammar point they should be working on next, they can check an appropriate JLPT grammar list. Then choose a pattern they are not familiar with.
2. Can improve resume
The JLPT (especially levels N3 and up) makes a nice addition to a resume. Particularly if you are looking to get a job in translation, language education, tour guiding, etc. It tells your prospective employer with some precision how much Japanese you know, and serves as proof of your proficiency.
3. Helps in school and university applications
Similarly, when applying to schools or universities, you can use JLPT to show how much Japanese you are able to understand. As well as how you are able to communicate using Japanese. Though there are quite a number of universities in Japan that have no JLPT requirement, some Japanese universities ask that prospective international students be at a particular JLPT level.
If you are interested in studying in Japan, make sure to find out whether the school(s) you are interested in have a JLPT requirement.
1. Distance
Depending on where you live, you may have to travel some distance to take the JLPT. You can find the list of cities around the world where they give JLPT here. (If you are in Japan, there are about 47 different locations where you can take the test).
2. Limited Use for Lower levels
The lower levels of the JLPT (N5 and N4) are certainly useful to take as study goal or to add to your resume. But passing those levels does have fewer uses compared with the upper levels (N3 and higher). Because of this, and because of the scarcity of JLPT testing centers if you do not live in Japan, some students may choose to wait to take the JLPT until they are ready to take N3 or N2.
3. Fees to pay
Although it is comparatively not very expensive, there is a fee to register for the JLPT. There can also be situations where you can reimburse your test fee. For instance, if you are taking the JLPT at a school that you are attending, the school may in some cases reimburse you for the fee.
4. can be a source of stress
Unless you want to use the test as a study goal or to prove proficiency for work or school, taking it may be a source of unnecessary stress. When taking the test (or even when taking practice JLPT tests) it is good to be aware that your score may not match your actual abilities. This is simply due to the fact that test-taking is not your forte. In addition, if you are studying Japanese primarily for fun or for travel, there is no need for you to take the JLPT unless you want to.
Progressing Through the Levels of the JLPT
Here at Kawa Kawa, we are in the process of creating a series of articles. Each will be equipped with specific advice to help you in preparing for and taking one of the five levels of the JLPT. You can check out our N2 article.
Articles on N5, N4, N3, and N1 are written, and we have linked them back to this article now! [ updated ]
Some advice for you
Generally speaking, here is some advice for planning your studies if your goal is to begin studying for the lower levels of the JLPT and then work your way up to the higher levels:
1. Pick a good Japanese textbook series and complete it thoroughly.
The Genki series is one of the best for beginning/lower intermediate studies. (Followed by Tobira for upper intermediate studies). Even if you have studied Japanese through film, daily experience (e.g. if your family speaks Japanese), or using websites, it is still a good idea to go through a formal textbook series in order to solidify grammar essentials.
2. Any textbook should be supplemented by real-world resources
Read Japanese books! Watch Japanese movies! Listen to Japanese music! This is the way to become familiar with contextual meanings and usages, and small differences between similar words. Use other learning resources as well.
There are many great online resources that should be utilized to increase your reading and listening skills…including our very own Kawa Kawa Learning Studio! Our Blog tab contains lots of free articles on grammar and usage, and our Library tab has lots of free practice materials for students of all different levels.
3. Take practice tests.
If you have never taken the JLPT before, the format of some of the questions may surprise you. Many of the question formats are shared between levels of the test, but like all standardized tests, all of the levels of the JLPT will become much easier once you understand the way that they ask their questions.
Some questions are phrased in tricky ways, and taking practice tests will give you experience in knowing what to do to choose the correct answers.
That is all the JLPT info for this article. The rest of our JLPT articles will be coming very soon! In the meantime, if you have any questions about the JLPT in general or about a specific level, please contact us or leave us a comment below and we will help you out!