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What You Need to Know About SSAE 18
The AICPA issued an updated Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements in April 2016. This statement known as SSAE 18 supersedes SSAE 10-17 and is effective for practitioners' reports dated on or after May 1, 2017. Vendor management is a key component where subservice or fourth-party vendors are concerned.
We have developed several resources that you'll find informative if you're researching how SSAE 18 will impact your financial institution. See the list below and if you would like help with your due diligence efforts, request a demo of Nvendor to see how we can streamline your vendor management with guaranteed accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: As a client, I prefer that my vendors provide me with SOC 2 reports since those reports are more comprehensive and generally cover controls related to the specific areas of risk I am most concerned with. Will this change?
A: No. The change is in the SSAE 16 standard to the SSAE 18 standard. The scope of controls (aka SOC) will not change as a result of the new SSAE 18 standard.
Q: Do I as a client need to be doing anything differently?
A: No. Ncontracts will seamlessly continue to provide the Operations Reviews for the new SSAE 18 standard.
Q: When do we expect to see the first SSAE 18?
A: Mid to late 2017
Q: Will the SSAE 18 replace the SSAE 16?
A: Yes, it is my understanding that that is indeed the case.
Q: How are international service org handled?
A: International organizations may use an alternative international standard for their audits, ISAE 3402. This is different from the US audit standards in a number of ways. The enclosed link to an audit firm post about the nine differences provides all the details: http://www.a-lign.com/isae-3402-ssae-16/. The additional major differences with the SSAE 18 are that the servicer has a vendor management program, risk assessments on the vendors of the service provider, documentation of the subservice controls, and a written assertion that all the material sub-servicers have been disclosed.
Q: You mentioned that just because [vendors] give you an SSAE 18 doesn't mean they are compliant… please list the areas we need to look within the SSAE 18 to make sure it's a complete SSAE 18.
A: There is no simple checklist when it comes to determining whether the SSAE 18 is adequate or compliant. The SSAE 18 is an audit standard, but the adequacy of the audit is dependent upon the scope of the review, the testing results, and ability of the service organization receiving the audit to meet the needs of the credit union with their internal controls in place. The reviews that Ncontracts provides can greatly assist your credit union in this evaluation.
Q: If our vendor refused to comply with 4th party disclosure would that qualify as a breach of contract?
A: It depends on the terms of the agreement. The agreement would need to have specific language requiring the disclosure of fourth parties before a credit union could claim a breach for failure to disclose.
Q: Will the SSAE 18 requirements be a part of the vendor annual due diligence that you perform for customers? How will the executive reviews be impacted?
A: Yes. The executive reviews will contain a section on vendor management that will highlight the four major parts that are new to the SSAE 18 including:
- List of the sub-servicers covered by the audit
- Vendor management program description – the quality of the service providers' program
- Review of the results of the risk assessments completed on the vendors
- Any issues with complementary controls utilized by the vendor to assure that the sub-servicer controls are effective
Q: Will the Written Assertion page be like a signature page in the report that's included in the final report?
A: While no SSAE 18 reports have been published, we do anticipate that the written assertion will either be a statement signed by the authorized representative of the service provider or a statement by the auditor that they have received a signed statement from the authorized representative of the service provider.
Q: How will the NDAs be handled? What if our vendor's vendor does not want their information to be shared in our vendor report?
A: Non-disclosure agreements may create problems for the vendor undergoing the review pursuant to the new SSAE 18 standard. Some NDAs allow for sharing information as long as the data being shared is also protected by a similar contractual provision to hold the data confidential. Otherwise, the vendor will have to obtain permission from their vendors (4th parties) to share the data for the audit.
Q: When do you expect examiners to being examining for SSAE 18 reviews?
A: To date, there is no published guidance from examiners regarding the SSAE 18s. The examiners will expect the latest report, and we anticipate that vendors will start to supply these beginning in September/October of 2017.
Q: Do you have a sample risk assessment document that we may use to determine critical vendors vs vendors?
A: Yes, we have a customizable questionnaire built into the application to assist in classifying critical vendors.
Key Takeaways
Vendor Management:
An organization's third (and fourth, and fifth, etc) party vendors, which are otherwise known as "Subservice Organizations," must have clearly defined responsibilities for each party, documented performance reviews that include regular audits and finding reviews.
Risk Assessment:
Part of the reporting controls for each subservice organization should include details on their established risk management programs, including explanations outlining the effectiveness of its controls and processes for remediation.
Complementary Subservice Organization Controls:
Organizations must ensure that user control considerations are documented and tested. Additionally, any subservice organizations the current vendor utilizes to support their own operations, must maintain the same standard of practice regarding user controls.
Written Assertion Requirements:
Management will be expected to provide an additional layer of assurance in the form of written documentation that attests to the true and complete scope of the system descriptions making sure that the applicable vendors are identified in the scope of the audit.


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Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Book Review: Mr. Mercedes (Bill Hodges Trilogy #1)
Author: Stephen King
Genre: Mystery/Thriller (detective/crime)
Rating: 3/5
Page Count: 436
Publication Date: June 3rd, 2014
Plot: (from Goodreads)
In the frigid pre-dawn hours, in a distressed Midwestern city, hundreds of desperate unemployed folks are lined up for a spot at a job fair. Without warning, a lone driver plows through the crowd in a stolen Mercedes, running over the innocent, backing up, and charging again. Eight people are killed; fifteen are wounded. The killer escapes.
In another part of town, months later, a retired cop named Bill Hodges is still haunted by the unsolved crime. When he gets a crazed letter from someone who self-identifies as the "perk" and threatens an even more diabolical attack, Hodges wakes up from his depressed and vacant retirement, hell-bent on preventing another tragedy.
Brady Hartfield lives with his alcoholic mother in the house where he was born. He loved the feel of death under the wheels of the Mercedes, and he wants that rush again.
Only Bill Hodges, with a couple of highly unlikely allies, can apprehend the killer before he strikes again. And they have no time to lose, because Brady's next mission, if it succeeds, will kill or maim thousands.
Mr. Mercedes is a war between good and evil, from the master of suspense whose insight into the mind of this obsessed, insane killer is chilling and unforgettable.
This book was... good, but just good not great or amazing. And I think the fact that it was just a plain solid detective thriller novel kind of disappointed me, maybe because all of King's other novels, that are my favorite and I adore to pieces. First off, the main character was just plain annoying. I don't know what about him was annoying, but he was just so damn blah, so plain and typical. And some stuff just rubbed me the wrong way.
This next paragraph has some plot spoilers, but it's a well used plot device, after this paragraph, we will get back to spoiler free review. SPOILER There was one particular thing that rubbed me the wrong way - and it was the use of female characters pain and such to enflame the male, make him want to fight, all that man pain. One of the worst tropes in the world in my opinion and I should of expected it but I thought something new and fun would happen. Nope. END SPOILER WARNING
One of the more interesting parts of this book is that you get to hear from the killer, the whole book you're aware of who the kill was, which definitely kills the suspense a bit. And it was interesting at first, and then it just gets of uncomfortable and then just sad, just plain sad. I didn't even feel anything for the guy but just pity.
The one really fantastic thing about this book, though I did like the writing for the most part, was the side characters. There's two characters who end up kind of being Bill's sidekicks and they're both intelligent and sharp and different, and I really enjoyed them.
Overall - if you want this kind of book, this is a good one. If you want a King book, not so much. (Side note that is shallow as hell: the cover is gorgeous. It's so creepy and awesome looking).
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subset: commoncrawl


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Heart Institute
785-625-4699 or 888-625-4699
2nd Floor Bickle Family Tower
2220 Canterbury Drive
Hays, KS 67601 | Directions
Event Calendar
Hays Medical Center has a full service heart program developed under the guiding hand of the "father of heart surgery" Dr. Michael DeBakey. The program includes 2 full time catheterization labs, interventional cardiology, nuclear cardiology, open heart surgery and cardiac rehabilitation. Patients receive one-on-one nursing care in ICU before being transferred to a dedicated cardiology step-down unit where they remain until discharge. A respiratory therapist is also dedicated to each patient following surgery.
The heart program at HaysMed is committed to including referring physicians in the decision making process and keeping them updated on the patient's status. Priority is given to returning patients promptly to their local community hospitals and health care providers.
Admissions & Referrals
Referrals to the DeBakey Heart Institute may be initiated by the primary care physician or other allied health professional. Communication with the primary care physician is maintained throughout the treatment process, with the ultimate goal of returning patients to their local physician for ongoing care.
We also accept self referrals.
Contact Information
DeBakey Heart Institute
2220 Canterbury Driver
Hays KS 67601
Patient Comments
March 2019
I had a heart cath today and everyone was so polite and nice to me. All the help you could ever need and ask for. I trust everyone here and am very satisfied with everything they do for me. I could not ask for anything better. This is the same as my open heart in 2012. Very good. Thank you all
February 2016
All of the nurses and tech aids did a great job. All of them made me feel like I was in great care. All my needs were taking care of.
We were in room 2211 the first part of Feb and the 18th was room 2207. We received excellent care. Charles has been in several different hospitals and considers his time in your as having the "best care". Nurses were excellent getting him his pills for his other illness Parkinson on time which saved a lot of stress on him and me, his wife.
Everyone was extremely kind and caring. My nurse Darleen was excellent in all aspects. I couldn't be more pleased with my stay here.
I've been in about every unit. Cancer Center, Emergency Room, Miller Pavilion, Surgical Care, Debakey, , The Center…everywhere. Doctors, nurses are wonderful. Chemo nurses A+. Actually it is an A+ staff and hospital. Keep up the good work!
I have been very happy. Everybody has been so good to me. I owe them all that helped me. Ever the Cath lab workers.
We were well pleased with the care of doctors and staff. Couldn't have asked for better care.
Super, Super Care! Thanks to the nurses Martha and Trisha.
I had a great experience in Hays. Everyone was awesome. They treated me well and took great care of me while there. I have had the unfortunate opportunity to be there more than I have wanted, each time I have had excellent care. I just want to thank all the doctors and staff that took care of me.
Everyone was amazing and kind. So glad I was brought here. Feel so much better. Very caring – EVERYONE I came in contact with.
Everyone was very nice. Caroline, Terry, Pat, Chuck, Ross – Were excellent.
I was in the hospital for approximately 10 days. I received outstanding care from Dr. Thapa, Dr. Katwal, Dr. Ashworth, Mary Jo, Dr. Reznick, Lesa, all else I forgot to mention. Your facility is top notch! I thank God Dr. Ashworth was available to perform my surgery. She is amazing! I am so thankful for May Jo! The woman has a heart of gold! She is an outstanding health care provider. I would not be here today writing this if not for all the healthcare providers pulling together as a team to get me on the road to recover. I love them all and they all hold a special place in my heart. God Bless each of them!! Thank you.
Every nurse that I was in contact with treated me with respect. Everyone working in the heart unit was excellent. Would recommend the DeBakey unit to whoever might need their services.
January 2016
All staff treated me with great care and respect. Procedure was done in timely manner. My family member was kept informed of my condition. Overall it was a good service and I felt I was in capable hands.
Excellent care
I received very efficient and polite care.
Excellent Medical Care – Good Food!
Outstanding…everyone has been and gone above and beyond. Thank you.
I was totally given excellent medical care by all staff. I would recommend all heart patient to this DeBakey Faiclities. Allwere friendly, patient and caring.
All the nurses in ER and DeBakey are very nice. Tammy was excellent! She was very helpful and accommodating even with a 4 am check-in.
The care you gave me was excellent!
October 2015
Very professional in the procedure. Went well and timeline was on schedule. Nurses and Dr. Thapa explained procedure well. I am most satisfied. Hope every effort is made to retain this professional staff.
Everyone was very nice and helpful and made my stay as comfortable as it could be. Patrick was very nice and attentive.
Received great care; medical and nursing staff were kind, courteous, helpful, answered questions clearly and provided clear instructions for post-op care and follow up. Family waiting room was also comfortable. Overall pleasant experience.
Care received was excellent! Doctors explained procedures and tests. Both doctors have great bedside manner. Chris was so helpful and answered all questions in a kind and clear manner. All nurses, aides were super. Thanks.
I was totally impressed with the help you gave ma on a room for me and my friend that drove me. As far as the doctors, nurses and doctor assistants – I don't think they could do a better job of taking care of me. I would not want to be treated anywhere else but here. Thank you for being patient, considerate and just a wonderful group of people. God Bless You ALL!
March 2015
I was brought to you from Great Bend by ambulance because I had a heart attack. I was in room 2215. Cindy was my day nurse and she was great. It was the first time we met but she treated and took care of me as if I was a part of the family. She is totally awesome, the very best and she kept me at ease always. Thanks for going beyond just being a good nurse.
Katie, the nurse, and Jenn were very quick and helpful. Katie helped answer all my questions about a new treatment I was to have. Dr. Ashworth was very prompt to see me which I appreciated. Brenda also helped set my next appointment right away. Gretchen and Heidi who did my lower extremity sono were also great! They were super friendly. Gretchen explained everything to me which was helpful.
I was very satisfied with everything and everyone here. I had the upmost care and everyone was very friendly and professional. All the nurses were great and bent over backwards to take care of me. Dr. Janif is the greatest. He is a true professional and has the best bedside manner I've ever experienced. Thank you everyone. Your facilities are fantastic!
I was at CPCU. My entire experience there was superb and very positive! Dr. Fisher and Dr. Janif and their surgical team was superb! Charge nurses Trisha, Allison, and Autumn were superb! Nursing staff was superb! Food was great. Maintenance was great. Administrative was great. I really appreciate the fine care.
The staff at the Hays Medical Center is the best. This is where you need to be when you have a problem. My wife and I could not ask for more. We both thank you very, very much for all your help.
Crystal is exceptional. She is very kind and caring, always there for you. A+++. Marie also goes out of her way for the comfort of her patient. All of the nurses and all staff, including cleaning, were of top grade. They made me feel at home and accepted. I can't say enough for these people. They make me proud and grateful to have such a facility in Hays.
Feb 2015
I have been in Hays Med Center 5 or 6 times as a patient and I have always had very good care. Kind and considerate people. The Cardiac Unit is top notch. We are lucky to have this hospital in western KS. I have been in Wichita, KC Med Center, University of Washington Med Center, Tucson Med Center, Denver Presbyterian, Oakley, Colby, and Goodland. I would highly recommend your Cardiac Care Center.
My mother received treatment while in Hays. Thank you all to the professional team who provided awesome service. I am so impressed with this facility and medical team and staff.
Every staff member was courteous and efficient! They answered questions and assisted us with every request. Thanks for letting my wife stay overnight in my room. Her 'couch bed' was comfortable!
We are thankful for the great care we received from the HMC staff. Nurses Shannon and Tammy have been 'exceptional', taking time and listening and giving great care, especially right after the heart cath! We appreciate Dr. Thapa's thoughtful help and Dr. Curtis going beyond the norm! Great job!
Excellent care. Staff always friendly. Doctors communicate well. Information explained well. Feel like I am taken care of well here. Thank you!
I was in for blood clots. Nurses were the best ever and cannot say anything bad about any of them. Answered call light immediately, very friendly, very good in their jobs. Only comment was maintenance doing drilling across my room at 10:30 at night. Know these things have to be done, but could be at an earlier time in the evening. Once I used the call light and a man dressed up came in to answer. I said you're not a nurse, who are you? His name was Brian and he was a supervisor. He was so nice and fixed my IV pole. Then he stayed and visited with us. So caring. I worked at HMC for 20 years and still think it's the best in care. Also very clean.
Patty, Morgan and Arin were all exceptionally fantastic. They were all professional, yet made me feel very comfortable. Makes staying more enjoyable when they can laugh with you. Thanks to all of them for treating us so well.
The care was very, very good. The employees are the best. The cleaning of the Medical Center is very nice and is done so well. The food is outstanding. The nurse staff and the caregivers are so good. Just want to say thank you for the care and understanding all that in need and how each member of the staff from nursing, dining, cleaning, respiratory, and all other help. Thank you.
From ER staff, EKG techs, nurses on 2nd floor, lab personnel, Dr. Freeman, Barb and other aides to the friendly dietary staff…a job well done with friendliness. Each was great and treated me and my husband with great TLC. I felt that I was the only patient. Forget the past, this stay was great. They all made me feel special. If I ever come back I hope I have all of them here for me. Thank you.
Everyone at Hays Med was so wonderful! From the minute I walked into the ER, everyone was so courteous and helpful. All the nurses were so kind, making me feel safe and welcome. All of the doctors were patient and helpful in understanding my condition. I want to thank Dr. Payne, Susie Pfannenstiel, Dr. Gray, Dr. Freeman, and everyone who made my stay comfortable.
I have been very satisfied with the service. Dr's and nurses responsive with call light. Very courteously quiet at night time with meds and blood draws, etc. and this is the only hospital I have been to that you don't hear that LOUD intercom sound. Thank you very much for the care I have received.
Everyone was great here, very friendly, thorough, caring. There was a RN here last night that was explaining everything. He was exceptional in his knowledge. Not sure of name, but he was from Colorado. He was top dog! But everyone was exceptional. Enjoyed my stay here but glad to go home. Doctor today was good in info and treatment.
Carol in surgery today was awesome. She explained things very well that I could know what to expect. She went the extra mile. Her partner was also very good. Big thanks to the whole team.
Jan 2015
Thank you so much for the care you gave me. It was a joyful place to be. Everyone was so friendly and most everyone had a smile and showed love by their offerings of God's love. The joking was so great. They showed the love they had for me. Keep all the smiles and love.
My wife and I were most satisfied by the fine care we received in the emergency room and in the hospital. Everyone seemed happy and seemed happy to help us. Our nurse, Tricia, was most helpful and we appreciated it.
Very excellent care. Best staff I've had taking care of me.
This is for Chuck. He was very, very, wonderful for my Father-in-law in room 2214. Dad can be feisty and constantly wanting to go to bed, then to the chair. I certainly could not have that patient. He always does the best care with a kind demeanor, never without a caring smile. My husband and I couldn't ask for any better with outstanding professional care. He seems to love his job. I feel whoever else he cares for would definitely agree. So thank him. The second floor employees were very courteous as well.
My stay here was fantastic! All the doctors, nurses, and staff were amazing. Special thanks to Dr. Anaya, Dr. Lesa, Zach, Deb, Danielle, and everyone that entered room.
My husband and I have been completely satisfied with all the staff. They are very friendly, considerate, and took care of me in every respect when I needed anything or any help. We can't single anyone out in particular, all did a great job. As well as seeing to it that I had a shower and everything else. Thank you so much!
Staff was extremely friendly, attentive, and explained everything well. I would definitely recommend hays Med to anyone in need. Very thorough staff.
Dec 2014
I just want to thank you for such outstanding care while I was in the hospital. Everyone was so good to me. Everyone made me feel very special. They were friendly, just like I was a long, lost friend. I can't think of a thing you need to change. Keep up the excellent work. It sure shows. May God bless each and everyone who works for Hays Med.
Thank you all for the outstanding care. Your kindness and excellent care made my stay very pleasant. The nurses and PCT's were all so kind and professional. Huge thanks to Marcie, Jessie, Allie, and Trisha. There was one more PCT that I can't remember her name, I think Candell. The techs were also fantastic. This has been one of my most enjoyable stays.
Great service from all sweet ladies. Thanks.
Very helpful and knowledgeable staff. Would recommend to anyone to come here.
Best care you could have anywhere.
Everyone I had contact with was very professional, attentive, and congenial. Everyone is special and treated me and my family as if we were special as well.
My care was excellent. My nurse Katelyn was caring and informative. Felt very comfortable unlike any other time. She's a keeper. Barb, the aide, was also wonderful.
Patty, Claire, and Katelyn-all RN's- are angels. They, along with the rest of the staff, took excellent care of me. They took care of all of my needs and explained everything they were going to do. Thank you very much. Also a big thank you to Dr. Janif for his kindness and great hands. Also his staff was excellent. I will pass the good word. Again, many thanks.
While a patient in Hays Med in the CPCU unit, I received excellent care. I was especially fond of Jessie the RN. She always explained everything to me in a way I could understand it. Your Dr. Patel is wonderful. A very down to earth and understanding doctor. Everyone was great.
Care was excellent. Thank you! Dietary-great food! Only in Hays can you get potatoes and dumplings. Yummy! All employees willing to help or answer questions when asked.
Nurses Patty, Todd, and Katelyn have been wonderful! PCT Aubrey and Barb were also very nice. Thank you for making this time at the hospital more bearable.
I had good care. Nurses were real good. Your admission was very good. We will be back when we need you.
I would like to say that even though I had a short stay, all your staff and personnel are to be commended for their professionalism and for creating a friendly and comfortable atmosphere.
Nov 2014
Patrick was professional and helpful. Dr. Carter was thorough and detailed. Other caregivers were also professional and helpful.
Very good, nice, and helpful Nurse Kelli!
I have totally enjoyed my stay with your center, and do not wish to single out any one staff member but want to stress that all the staff on both the day and night shift was totally knowledgeable in their jobs and a complete pleasure to have be my caregivers. As a result of this, I have requested that my primary care business be moved to your Great Bend facility and that my Heart Care be assigned to your Hays Branch.Patty L and Kelsey were very tuned into and compassionate to the needs of my wife. The people in the emergency room gave Good care. Susie Pfannenstiel and Dr. Hemphill get A+!
The hospital was clean and very nice. All of the personnel were great. My wife really enjoyed visiting with my first nurse, Trisha. They're 'shirt tail' relatives and have a love of horses in common! Food was good. Not a thing to complain about. Thank you!
I was very satisfied how I was treated by everybody here, especially Barb and Jessi.
The care I received in CPCU was excellent. The staff was all very good and gave me such good care. I think I would like to recognize Marcy on the night shift and Jenna PCT.
Oct 2014
I would like to brag on Meredith (DeBakey Night RN). She was so compassionate and helpful she put me totally at ease and I felt as though she REALLY cared about ME! The rest of the staff that I interacted with were all really good. Cardiologist Anaya and Carter were both awesome, informative, and caring. Overall my stay was very positive.
Very good nurses – Crystal and Todd. All the assistants were attentive and competent. Room was clean and staff was helpful.
I had great care. The nuses I had were exceptional. Took good care of me and very friendly.
Cardiac floor is the best. Very good help in the aides, nurses, meals, etc.
While I was at HMC I had wonderful care from the nurses and all the staff. I can't remember all the names so please thank the nurses on the 2nd floor. Meredith and Sandy were two very good examples. Occupational Therapy Alicia and Ross helped me so much. This is very lucky to have such a nice hospital.
My nurses, Todd and Chris, were excellent. Helpers Austin and Jaimee were very willing to help. Room was clean. Dr. Anaya and Mary Jo were excellent in their care. Special thanks to Todd for walking the Artery Leakage.
Joyce in Sono is to be recognized for her excellent care and professionalism. While in her care I had an allergic reaction. She handled this quickly while I was in a serious condition. Joye, the RN, in the Cardiac Unit took over my care after coming to the unit from the allergic reaction I had in Sono. She was a very caring person, checking in on me, being very professional. It was nice. She cared and checked in on me many times.
Everyone went out of their way to make my stay comfortable, especially Dr. Ashworth.
I was very pleased with everything and everyone I encountered. Cindy and Darleen were especially kind and helpful. Anissa was excellent. Dr's Aneya and Carter and their team were of course excellent.
We couldn't be happier with the surgeon, doctor, nursing staff, and the hospital for the care I received during my recent stay. The attitude of everyone there makes you feel like you really care about your patients and that you like your jobs! Thank you so much for the wonderful care I received.
Everyone was as nice this time around as they were the first time. They make it not as traumatic as it could be. Very professional.
Debie Snook from Ransom-an unsung hero. Vetrieh, housekeeper, has labored long, keeping things clean and in good order. Effective and faithful at what she does. Some jobs last long after the glammer fades. Everyone expects clean standards in the hospital. Some of us do not realize all that it takes, all too seldom is gratitude expressed, yet all deficiencies are quickly noticed. Certainly the 'running gear' of the HaysMed rides on the integrity and performance of many such employees, quietly doing their work. Give her a hug and a thank you.
All the staff and doctors were very caring and helpful. I will be letting everyone I know that I was well cared for and would go back again.
You have exceptional employees. Very helpful and willing to go above and beyond for their patient. Cathy McGinnes RN was outstanding! The doctors were very willing to explain to us.
Thanks to all, the care was great. Thanks to ER doctor, TJ, Todd, Danielle and Kelsey. Everyone was kind and extremely professional. Food was great too." (CPCU Department)
My mother had the best care. It was so refreshing to find healthcare professionals who truly love their jobs. We never found one individual to be unhappy and were glad to attend her needs. I know at times she can be difficult, but all the RN's were exceptional. Mom really appreciated Sheila, Lindsey, Jessi, and many others whose names escape us. The PCT's were all wonderful. Give our thanks to everyone that made today possible. Paul was a god-send too! Dr. Janif is awesome and Mom truly liked Dr Potter. We will be back.
The care was perfect. Everyone so friendly, so caring. Hospitals aren't my favorite place to stay. I was treated like royalty by every department I was in.
I just wanted to say that there are not enough words to explain how I feel. When I arrived at the hospital, I was met with kind and friendly staff people. When I arrived in my room, I was put at ease and felt that I was in very good hands. Each person from the cleaning staff to the doctors was very kind and understanding. If I need to be in a hospital again, I will choose HaysMed Center. Thank you so very much for all your help. May my Lord God bless each and every one of you.
Every staff member was exceptional. It is difficult to remember everyone's names. Some that I do remember are: Stephanie, Cathy, Dr. Freeman, Anissa, and the night nurse. There is no reason to complain. Thank you for helping me feel better.
Overall excellent nursing care. Every nurse we had exceeded expectations. Patty, Patty Lawson, Allison, Nick and Crystal – great job! Very caring…can't teach that in school! Big Les! Awesome! Best phlebotomist – Eric Estrada! Love Dr. Simen, very caring!
Everyone was very caring and nice to be around, from housekeeping on up. The nurses were very professional and PCT awesome. PA Mary Jo – super. Paul, hospitalist, was nice, great bedside manner. Nurses Christina, Patti, Aubrey – Thanks. You were terrific. PCT Sarah – Thanks!
August 2014
My family (wife, daughter, granddaughter) and I have been very impressed with this beautiful facility and our excellent care. We would like to commend Tina, RN ICU days; Ashley, RN ICU nights; Robin, RN ICU days; Marcie, RN CPCU nights; and Trisha, RN CPCU days for their compassionate and expert care. We were all blessed by their kindness and dedication. Thank you! (CPCU)
I would have to say Jessi was wonderful. Always smiled and pleasant when came into room. I would recommend her for any patient and if I ever had to come in again I would like for her to be my nurse. (CPCU)
All staff in CPCU were wonderful, especially 7A to 7P group. My uncle was there from last Friday until yesterday (Monday). At times he was a challenge, but they worked great with him. (CPCU)
I was very satisfied with my care. My nurses, Sandy, Brian, Cindy, gave me great care-explained meds/treatments-caring and compassion. Dr. Maroj-excellent, excellent-so pleased how he explained all my options, reassured me of my fears, concerns, worries-genuine, caring-great Doctor! Thank you. PCT's-caring, sweet, prompt answering lights. CPCU unit is excellent! I had great care, so impressed. Cannot express how much I appreciated everyone. Thank you. I have been a nurse for 20 years and know what is supposed to happen and safety checks in place. I felt very safe and well cared for. Jason Fowler is a great nurse, checked up on me every day. Thank you. (CPCU)
I was visited by many members of your HaysMed facility during my 4 day stay (Aug. 5-8), all of whom provided very high professional services to me. Your nursing staff and services staff were remarkably well trained to provide their medical expertise in a very time-sensitive schedule, including Result Checking follow-ups on applied procedures. The level of facility cleanliness was excellent, with little variability during shift changes. Two of the many excellent nursing staff members provided me with suggested solutions to personal impromptu medical questions requiring my short-time decisions. These 2 nurses made notable impressions on me at these times: Nurse Jessie on the day shift and Nurse Kathy on the night shift during the week of 8-5-14 to 8-814. Of the many exceptional medial doctors that provided services to me that was outstanding for the clarity of explanations of my condition and the alternative choices I had available to me, was Dr. Biring of the Pulmonary Staff. His ability to analyze my questions and clearly answer them in terms that were understandable to a layman patient in my present condition was remarkable and much appreciated!" (CPCU)
Everything and everybody did an exceptional job. I couldn't have asked for better care. To single someone out would be unfair because they all did an exceptional job. (CPCU)
The team of nurses and doctors took great care of me. Only thing I can say is that get more comfortable beds. (CPCU)
My care was excellent from beginning to end. It is wonderful to have a hospital of this caliber close to home. All of the staff went out of their way to make me feel at ease and in good hands. Thank you Dr. Ashworth and all the cardiac care staff. (CPCU)
I found your hospital generally efficiently run. The staff is friendly, efficient, and courteous. You have a good group—take care of them. (CPCU)
All the medical staff I encountered were great. Trisha did a wonderful job as my main nurse and the doctors were very professional. I consider myself to be very lucky to have Dr. Teget as my surgeon. (CPCU)
We didn't choose this hospital but we are very glad we were sent here. The cardiac team determined what was wrong and took steps to fix it. Staff is amazing. Trisha was his nurse, very comforting and knowledgeable. This has been a good experience and we are very appreciative to the hospital and all of its wonderful staff. (CPCU)
All the nurses and aides were wonderful! And Trisha was exceptional! They even took care of my husband. They were very caring and protective of our privacy. It was a very pleasant experience that I don't want to have to experience again. (CPCU)
Trisha certainly deserves a recognition for her terrific attitude and attentive helpfulness. She was uplifting for my husband, the patient, and for me. She does all she can to make us more comfortable, and she knows what to do. She is outstanding! (CPCU)
Everyone is very friendly and helpful. It was amazing not to feel the shots being given. I really appreciated that. (CPCU)
Patty is a wonderful, exceptional, conscientious nurse. Jenna is a wonderful nurses' aide. All the staff was courteous and professional. (CPCU)
July 2014
Care here is excellent – what impressed me a lot is how everyone seems to help everyone when there is a need. Your staff is great – Trish is magnificent! Thanks for everything.
Outstanding employees make this hospital at 10+. All were pleasant and happy which made a big difference in place me in pace and a sense of rest and I could trust in the nurses.
Everything went well and as I expected. I will be back!
I was given exceptional care. In the past I've been in several hospitals from Arkansas to California and received good care, but never as good as at HaysMed. There was one RN that was "very" wonderful and helpful in my care, her name was Allison. I wish to thank all the nurses and aides that aided in my care. God bless you all.
What a wonderful experience! The staff in the ER and CPCU were nothing short of magnificent. I was treated with dignity and respect. Every single employee knew their job and did it well. Many thanks for making my stay and my treatment not just bearable, but a very positive experience!
June 2014
All the nurses and PCTs were very nice. Katelyn and Allie were great and were very friendly. Thank YOU!
The entire staff was very helpful and kind. Keep up the great work!
All the staff are very passionate about the work they do. We had a really good experience once again. Thank you very much for the wonderful care. I really appreciate it.
All staff members have been very helpful and very friendly. I have enjoyed my time here as a patient and would recommend HaysMed to anyone.
The doctors and staff at your facility have been excellent, care was outstanding, everyone was courteous to me and my family during my recent visit. Food was great. Thakn you very much from my heart to everyone involved.
The care that was given to my mother the past two times she was a patient here was outstanding. All involved were very professional and deserving high praise. Keep up the great work it is most appreciated. Docs were great!! They made us feel like family. Very cool.
All involved in my care and treatment in the Cath Lab are to be commended. I was particularly pleased with Christina's care and treatment and with Dr. Dimen's work in the cath procedure.
Everyone was exceptionally caring. I received top notch care. I'm glad we chose to come to HaysMed.
May 2014
Everyone was very kind and caring. HaysMed is top notch! So blessed to have cardio care and cancer care here.
Danielle was a big help in getting my back to relax so I could get out of here on schedule. Trisha and Leitha were on the spot for anything that I needed. The overnight girls were considerate as they got me through the night.
We do greatly appreciate all medical and other services at the center. This city and area of this part of Kansas is very fortunate to have access to HaysMed. All physicians, nurses and surgeons are knowledgeable and caring. Thank you for your help in getting my life back.
Everyone and everything was great. I enjoyed everyone and you were a great bunch. Thanks a million!
"Nurse Joyce and PCT Leitha provided excellent care – very attentive following balloon procedure to the leg. Amazed at the food choices available and the good condition of the food upon delivery!" (CPCU)
"The days I was here staff was outstanding. Thanks for making me feel normal again. Everyone was great – thanks to all of them." (CPCU)
"We come from Great Bend and asked to be sent here. My father and mother were treated here and had such good care. Thanks so much!"
April 2014
I enjoyed my stay here, it strikes me as a five star hotel and I appreciate the consideration and kindness extended to me.
Jackie my nurse and both doctors, Anaya and Dimen were excellent; explained the procedure thoroughly.
My care was really excellent during my stay. In particular my nurse Trisha. The care and attention she gave during my stay this time as well as the last stay is truly something HaysMed should be proud of. HaysMed is a wonderful asset to our area. Thanks so much.
I was so impressed with everyone on the unit. Everyone was so friendly and up-beat and caring. I felt pampered. I thought Jordan was a sweetheart helping me shower and wash my hair. She even got me extra coffee. Ross and Chuck took very good care of me.
The nurses and doctors are wonderful. Always willing to help to make you comfortable and make you feel special. Jesse on the heart ward is great.
We are very pleased with the care that we got from all staff. My daughter in Chicago checked the website and was very impressed with the information. She is editor for AMA journal. We are always happy with care.
I cannot pick just one Associate for exceptional care because everyone I came in contact with was exceptional. As a patient I can say I was actually blown away. Keep up the good work.
Everyone here has been like a family to me. When I needed them they were here to help me. I am very happy for the doctors too. I was very satisfied. I love you all for what you have done for me. Thank you so much!
I have nothing but wonderful things to say about my stay at your hospital. Every doctor, staff member was so pleasant and very helpful. The care was top notch. Everyone that visited me was equally impressed at the care which I received.
I loved everyone that worked with me during my stay, they were all wonderful and so caring. Thanks for everything.
We have received wonderful care from all HaysMed staff. Dr. Ashworth and Susie were so professional! All nurses, therapists, and aides were outstanding too. We would recommend HaysMed to everyone. Thanks so much!
The nursing staff I had contact with were all great! Answered all my questions and were concerned about my welfare, pain and comfort. I was never in need of anything. They were always there. The food was good and delivered in a timely manner when ordered.
Once again the care I got while a patient was outstanding. When I got out of surgery Crystal and Haylee were constantly in my room checking to see if I was ok. The next day Crystal stayed on top of my release orders to ensure I go to go home without any delay. Thank You.
My husband was brought to ER – very impressed with nurse Cammie and Dr. Merry – was exceptional care. His visit required overnight observation. Room 2213 was spacious, clean – staff was very professional, Andy was the admitting nurse and morning nurse was Crystal and Cardiologist Dr. Davis. All care was exceptional, informative, helpful and noteworthy. Impressed with care given.
Patrick and Drs. Davis and Galeo were very helpful and informative. Patrick met the needs of the patient… even a vanilla milkshake!
All caregivers were professional and helpful, totally positive group.
December 2013
We appreciated the care and attitudes of the nurses and doctors. Everyone was polite and if we had questions, they would answer them to the best of their ability. We also liked the cleanliness of the hospital in general. Thank you for your great care!
Very good service. Really enjoyed our two nurses, Cindy and Barb. They do a great job taking care of their patients and both have a sparkling personality! Thanks also to Dr. Clark."
This is absolutely the best hospital I have ever been in. Everyone here is so kind and considerate. Everyone is so genuinely concerned about how I feel and if I need anything at all. I honestly have never had such wonderful people caring for me. God bless you all!
I would like to thank everyone who cared for me. Everyone went out of their way to see that I was well cared for and comfortable. I don't remember ever being this cared for anywhere I've ever been. It was like being around caring family the whole time. Thank You.
I have never been cared for by better nurses, food dept, or cleaning persons. It was a pleasure to hear happy workers laughing as they did their work. The sounds come from happy workers who love their jobs! The male nurses were a great help. Hope you can find some more. They lighten the load and a comfort for male patients.
All staff were thoughtful and caring. My nurses when I was admitted, Darlene, made sure I was comfortable. My daytime nurse, Trishia was excellent at calming my fears and made sure I had what I needed. I also would like to thank the aides. Brenda is a wonderful aide and made me feel like I was family.
November 2013
Staying here was a good experience! Cindy, Andy, Trisha, and Carmen were awesome. They joked and made me feel as home. Everyone was nice and made sure I was comfortable! Thanks you for having awesome staff!
Every nurse and PCT who took care of me was outstanding. If my vote counts, they are all to be rewarded. Thank You.
We cannot believe the wonderful care we received at HaysMed from ICU to CPCU. The services were always quick and good. We loved Dr. Ashworth and all the nurses, especially Crissy Haynes in ICU. We will recommend HMC to everyone. We thank everyone!
All the staff was great. Dr. Bernaro is terrific and the nursing staff is the best around. Room service is very nice. Yummy food and great service. All in all, if you need to be in a hospital, HMC is THE place to be. It's very comforting knowing you're here in a time of need.
Dr. Janif explained very well, all the how's and why's. He's really nice.
Everyone was so nice to me and was continually concerned about my comforts and needs. Jess and Linsey were wonderful and I couldn't have asked for better RNs. Outstanding!
October 2013
Thank you for the good care Mom received in a courteous and timely manner. Thank you to all the aides and doctors.
I'm sorry I can't remember all the names but your staff here that worked with me is exceptional. Marcie was a jewel but they were all sweet and helpful very caring. If this had to happen I feel blessed that I was brought here. Thank all of your staff that was with me.
Your staff did great! They were always here when I needed something. Very awesome!
I was a little worried about coming here. I've always went to Wichita but you people treated me with respect and all the nurses were very knowledgeable about my problem. Very kind nurses and aids and just everybody was super. You were so good that I am changing my heart care to here from now on. I thank you very much and the doctors were very good in their care. Thank you all.
Thanks to all the nurses and pct's who took the upmost amazing care of my grandpa. It's a very refreshing feeling to know he is always in great hands. The nurses on CPCU were very nice and caring towards him. It's great to be part of such an amazing group of coworkers here at HaysMed. He's always treated like family. Once again, a huge thank you. You all rock! Keep up the great work and amazing care!!!
September 2013
Everything went amazingly well. Everyone was professional and always asked if I needed anything. I am very grateful for your services!
I thought the care I received was great. The room was cheerful and clean. The nurses and PCTs were very caring, concerned, attentive and helpful. I really appreciate all of this care; it made my stay as pleasant as possible.
Completely satisfied! ALL STAFF was very good and friendly. Doctors and RNs were very good. Kuddos to Trish and ICU staff was exceptional especially Karen! I would recommend DeBakey to all. Thanks for your care!
Everyone on 3rd floor has been wonderful to me while I've been in the hospital. I would not hesitate one minute to recommend this hospital to anyone.
Very good hospital, friendly and the nurses were prompt. Everyone was wonderful.
Jessi and Sheila were very personable, caring and sincere. They made me feel comfortable and went out of their way to make sure my medical needs were taken care of.
The staff was wonderful, caring and friendly especially Dr. Ashworth and Susie. The food was good. The iPad was so neat! Thank you very much.
This is a great place to be able to come instead of going to Wichita, KS or Denver!
Stephanie was very good at explaining instructions for discharge. She also told me what to do if any problems occur.
August 2013
From Dr. Curtis when I saw him in Wakeeney to Dr. Fisher who performed the surgery and all others involved in my care here at HMC, let me just say how caring and delightful they have been to me. We all need to be thankful that we have a facility as nice as this one in our area.
I was very, very satisfied! Everyone was wonderful. Glad my doctor sent me here! Will be back if needed! Thank you all so much!
Everyone on CPCU was wonderful. I was scared to death of a procedure but they explained it to me and made me feel comfortable and I thank them for that.
I was treated like Royalty. They were all so good to me and professional. They bent over backwards to get all my requests taken care of. My daughter was very pleased with everything and we so appreciated her being able to stay in my room. My God reward each and every one of you!
July 2013
I am very pleased with the care I have received here. Every person that has helped me with my care has been very considerate, knowledgeable and quickly available.
I could not be more satisfied with the healthcare I received. I'm so glad to have come here with my husband for his healthcare. I could not ask for better service. Thanks to all the staff for the support I received during this hard time. To the doctor – thanks so much for the great job!
Our stay at HaysMed Cardiac Unit was very warm and comforting. The level of care given was excellent. We never felt unsecure in the skill of nursing. The nursing staff was always sincere, patient and caring. My husband said that having to be here almost "felt like home." We cannot say enough good things about the cardiac care unit. We sincerely hope that staff receive the "kudos" they so rightly deserve. Also: food ordering and quality was excellent!
The care I received during my stay here at HMC was excellent. I couldn't have asked for a better group of nursing people even if I would have picked them myself. Thanks to everyone! What a great place to get well in.
All of our nurses were great and my boyfriend got the best patient care I've ever seen! Our nurses Sheila, Patty, Kathy and Sandy were all very sweet and attentive to our needs and always answered all of our questions and concerns. Barb and Brandell are amazing aides! A+ girls! This was the 2nd time he was flown here and even though it was very scary, we knew we were in the best possible cardiac facility. Thanks to everyone on CPCU that took care of us.
Everyone here was very professional, helpful, informational and very pleasant and respectful. You have a great staff! Thanks you very much for taking care of me.
My cardiac care was excellent from beginning to end. Dr. Dobbs met me in the ER room and explained the procedure that he planned to do in the cath unit. The cath staff was friendly and professional. After my cath Dr. Dobbs gave me and my family a complete report of the results and his recommendation for future care. The personnel in the cardiac care unit were professional, friendly and explained meds and answered any questions that I had. The food was excellent. I would recommend HaysMed to anyone.
Devin was really nice and good, a top notch employee. Fisher and the rest of the staff were great too. Thanks so much!
Going to the hospital is never a good thing, but I will have to say my experience here has been very good. Working in healthcare myself I understand and experience things as a worker rather than a patient. Now, being the patient I must say I am very impressed with this facility. I was treated with respect and understanding and all the staff gave excellent, professional care. You have opened my eyes to an exceptional hospital which, if ever needed I would be a patient again without question. Thank you to all your staff from Drs to dietary – techs, nurses, CNAs and supportive staff. You are all doing a great job! Kansas is very lucky to have a facility of this high standards and quality in healthcare. Keep up the good work and again, thank you so much!
Everyone at HaysMed is great. From the receptionist to the nursxes, the therapists, doctors, and even the cleaning – you are all wonderful. Not only do you show care and concern for the patient but also for the family. We truly feel at home here. Keep up the good work!
My husband was a patient in the CPCU for 2 days. We were so pleased with the quality of care and the warmth and compassion showed by everyone we worked with. We would particularly like to praise nurses Katelyn, Marcie and Jana who personally walked a tired and frazzled wife (me) to her care at the end of the day. Thanks to all in the CPCU!!
Devin and Shawn were courteous and very professional. They did a good job making me feel at ease and answered questions when asked.
June 2013
Thank you so much for the excellent care I have received during my stay. Very caring, bright, alert and dedicated staff. I was very comfortable and confident of receiving excellent care. The food was superb.
How many ways can we say THANK YOU! Every staff members was totally professional, extremely helpful in every way. We were stranded and even the security guard helped us to a hotel. We joked about rural America but you were the best! The world needs to know about Hays, KS and this medical staff.
Excellent care. Courteous and caring. We can tell staff truly enjoys their job and will go the extra mile to make the patient comfortable and meet their needs. Good Job.
This is my 3rd or 4th visit to HaysMed. This is the friendliest, cleanest and most professionally operated facility I have ever been admitted to. All departments work well together, all staff members work well together and have positive attitudes toward not only patients but other team members. The food is exceptional. My choice of the most exceptional Associate would be Katelyn – you are very lucky to have such a wonderful, all around employee.
Everyone who took care of me was awesome. I could not have asked for better care.
May 2013
I cannot express the level of care and compassion that I received from your center. The level of knowledge and communication is surpassed by none. The level of compassion and understand was superior. They all took time to make me understand what happened to me and explained it as well to my wife. I am moving to the area and I have NO concerns about the level of care I will receive in the future. I must share that the overall care was beyond what I could have expected. Jessie was so attentive and always asked what I needed before I was even ready. She made my stay easier than you can know. She made our stay as pleased as one could have expected. All of the doctors, nurses, staff including room service has a higher standard of excellence than any other hospital I have ever experienced!
None of us want to be in a hospital but the nurses, aides and other supporting staff was very pleasant, friendly, supportive and helpful. I was very thankful for their help. The people that I dealt with were "top of the line." The food and food service was very good and very accommodating.
Everything was great. Everyone from the doctors to housekeeping were exceptional. If it weren't for having a heart attack I would have enjoyed everything about my stay. I think everyone went above and beyond. Thank you very much; it hardly felt like being in a hospital
My father had a heart attack Monday and was admitted to the DeBakey Heart Institute @ HMC.
I lived in Hays until 1997, but now live in Topeka. After hearing of my dad's condition I headed to Hays. My children were actually born at the old St. Anthony's hospital. (now HMC), but I'd not been in the facility for probably twenty years. I just wanted to drop you a line and tell you how impressed I was with the hospital, and especially the heart institute.That is one, top –notch facility! ………and the staff there, caring for my father, was superb to match.What a wonderful thing it is for Hays to have such a fine hospital. I cannot say enough about how well we were treated. Dr. Markiewicz did the procedure and Dr. Davis was the attending physician. Both were fabulous, but Dr. Davis was so gentle and caring toward my dad. That meant a lot to all of us.
Our nurses were all wonderful, especially Lacy on the first evening.
Many, many kudos to ALL.
My husband has had nothing but loving, competent care whether in ICU or CPCU. Nurses and Drs have taken my needs and concerns into consideration as mush as my husband. Dr. Davis and Dr. Ashworth and Susie are some really top notch surgeons but so many others also. People in the offices – wherever we needed help, everyone was so caring.
Food service is excellent! Nurses were friendly, courteous and gave immediate attention. Everyone and everything was neat and clean. We would recommend this hospital and staff!


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One Breath AwayBook - 2012
From the critics
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This was a fairly good read. It was well written and contained enough variety of suspense to make it interesting.
The only thing is the author flits from character to character, sometimes a page or two is all that is written about that character, so you have to stay on your toes to remember each of the characters and the part they play. That makes it a little choppy, but, at the same time it also makes it less tedious.
This was a really good book. I have read several others of her books and have found them all to be well written. It is a cliché to say that this was a page turner - but this truly was. Read it in one day and stayed up late to finish as I couldn't put it down until I found out the answers to who and why this was happening. Highly recommend.
An armed gunman enters the school in the small town of Broken Branch - a school so small that all students are housed in different wings of the same building - on a Friday afternoon just before the start of Spring Break. As the school goes into lockdown, news travels quickly through the town and soon anguished parents are gathered outside the school waiting...waiting for what will happen next. Officer Meg Barrett, recently separated from her husband, holds the responsibility of the town's children in her hands. She keeps getting mysterious text messages from the gunman and thinks it could be her husband inside. Will Thwaite, who lost his teen daughter years ago to his overly strict rules, now finds himself in the untenable situation of knowing his grandchildren, his estranged daughter's children, are trapped inside the school. Augie, Will's granddaughter knows she must do all that she can to protect her younger brother, a third grader in Mrs. Oliver's class. Mrs. Oliver, a veteran teacher who was counting the days until her retirement in the summer, must do everything in her power to keep her students safe. Will officer Barrett discover the identity of the gunman and find a way to free the students before it's too late - or is Broken Branch destined to be another Columbine?
What a magnificient writer. Love her books!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SummaryAdd a Summary
What happens when a man with a gun holds a small town's school hostage? Experience the ordeal through the eyes of several major players in the drama, including:
• Evelyn Oliver, teacher,
• Meg Barrett, police officer,
• Augie Baker, 13-year-old student, and
• Will Thwaite, Augie's grandfather.
While the gunman's identity (and motive) is kind of a mystery (I figured it out pretty early), the novel also focuses on another aspect of the situation—what if? What if I die without telling my family that I love them? What if someone dies because I didn't do anything to stop the gunman?
A very quick read.
Age SuitabilityAdd Age Suitability
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text:
Similar to a concierge at a 5 star hotel, medical access plans provide you with a single source of access to, and or discounts on, many of the commonly needed medical treatments, services and products such as physician consultations, prescription medications, lab tests, x-rays, MRIs and other imaging services, dental treatment, diabetes and medical supplies, hearing aids and much more.
Medical Access Plans are beneficial regardless if the individual is covered by an existing health insurance plan or not. The benefits in medical access plans can help supplement traditional health insurance plans by providing discounts on the out-of-pocket costs associated with health insurance such as co-pays, co-insurance etc. Furthermore, individuals and families without health insurance coverage can benefit from the discounts and phone access to a physician consultation.
The most common and obvious use of your Simple Savings Medical Access plan will be for phone consultations with a licensed physician. This benefit is not only convenient, it can also save you time and money by possibly avoiding a trip to the doctor's office. Before visiting the Urgent Care, Emergency Room or setting up an appointment at the doctor's office, you can speak directly with a licensed, board certified physician and via telemedicine, they can either diagnose and determine what the proper course of action would be, or prescribe medications to be filled at the pharmacy of your choice.
Secondarily, if the whether by phone or email consultation with a Consult-A-Doc physician, or via your family physician, you are prescribed medication or laboratory tests, x-ray or any other imaging services, your Simple Savings discounts can help offset any out-of-pocket costs you may incur.
Additionally, if your Simple Savings Medical Access Plan membership includes access to discounts on Dental Coverage, Diabetes and Medical Supplies, Hearing Aids, Nutritional Supplements, Over the counter medications, and much more.


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: "Hawaiian House" Chicago style!
Risup [D.O.e - 12" inch Species]
: Progressive Hip Hop
Archangel [Imaginary Friends]
: Epic Trance
Core-e [ReHAB]
: Progressive Tech House
Mase [Trinity Crew-808 Strength]
: Drum-n-Bass
Spyhunter [Wired:Digital]
: Breaks - Progressive Acid Trance
DJ's interesting in posting your current playlist, please email us your current Top Ten playlist listing artist or group/track-EP-LP-CD title/label. Check back periodically for updates!


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Views: 683
I find it amazing how anxious some people are to help their omnipotent god out in punishing those who transgress against his law. It's rather like the lesser bullies on the playground, siding with the BIG bully so that 1) they don't get beat up themselves and 2) they get to exercise their own tyranny.
I think it's about power, Donald, about elevating yourself in the pecking order and the whole "I'm right and you're wrong!" game. They get to associate themselves with power (whatever deity is in play) and act on his behalf.
I realized some time back that people who are not horribly self-possessed are far more given to such games than those who do own and understand themselves. A great many religious adherents fit very well into that first category.
I call those types 'Special Snowflakes'
I don't know about "snow," but "flake"?!? OH YEAH!
Granola bars? What ain't fruits and nuts, is flakes??? *wink*
Hahahaha! Thanks! I needed that!
Tammy, Yes! this is a bit of refreshment on a hot day!
I am literally surrounded by the 'special' if I don't laugh at em, well... I could go to prison...
They care because the most evangelistic (conversion-minded) of the theisms are intent in creating social and political situations that facilitate their efforts to convert others. If throwing someone in jail for not believing causes others to convert to the religion out of fear, so much the better. It's all grist for the cause.
"Fantastic doctrines (like Christianity or Islam or Marxism) require unanimity of belief. One dissenter casts doubt on the creed of millions. Thus the fear and hate; thus the torture chamber, the iron stake, the gallows, the labor camp, the psychiatric ward." —Edward Abbey
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Here it is. The 4th and final chapter in Moo to Mouth MEAT: A True Love Story. I have always thought that beef tasted the same, but only changed when flavor was added to it. Boy was I wrong. I spoke with Beef Tasting Enthusiast Carrie Oliver from the Artisan Beef Institute. So many factors play a role in how cooked beef will taste.
In this video I have 3 different types of beef from 3 different cows, all grass finished at 3 different times. 2 of the samples (fall & spring) of are from Megan Brown at the Table Mountain Ranch and one sample is from Lindy & Grundy Meats. I am able to taste such a wide range of flavors just between these 3 samples.
I am not a professional beef taste tester but with the help of Carrie Oliver's Offical Artisan Beef Tasting Guide I am about to describe what it is that I am tasting. As it turns out beef tasting is a lot like wine there are so many different types and there is an art to tasting it. Here is a like to Carrie's official tasting guides: http://artisanbeefinstitute.com/tastingguides/download-guides/
I hope everyone has enjoyed this series. I would like to thank Megan Brown and the Table Mountain Ranch, Jenny Dewey and the Chico Locker and Sausage Co. and Lindy and Grundy Meat's for taking the time to let me see into their lives and educate my readers on where MEAT comes from. I would also like to thank you my readers for your your support, I could not do this without you.
My next quest is to work on a cattle ranch during the slaughtering season as well as a meat processing plant for a week (at each) and video tape my experience and share it with you. My goal is to educate consumers as to how and where their meat comes from. I feel that if we educate consumers ranter than shove negative propaganda in their face they can better understand the choices when buying agriculture. Just like every organization there is the good and the bad. Read your labels and educated yourself about what it is you are eating and where it is coming from. If we start doing this now in 10 years we are more likely to be eating what we want rather than what we are told we want. It is up to us to support the right way of doing things.
If you are interested in helping me out on my next quest please feel free to contact me at meatmeblog(at)gmail(dot)com I look forward to hearing from you and changing the world together.
To the greater good,
Sean Rice
aka MEAT ME
Starting today and till this Saturday I will be on the road trying different meats between Los Angeles and San Francisco with photographer Robert Kerian you can check out my video blog updates at my tublr page @ http://www.meatmeblog.tumblr.com
or you can follow me on twitter @meatemblog
You can also find Carrie Oliver @carrieoliver


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Posted by GameDemon in Hajime no Ippo: Rising | 0 Comments
Hajime no Ippo: Rising episode 07
To hell with it! I really didn't want to write this week's Hajime no Ippo post today. I'm short on time and my hand is killing me. Then again, I don't want to have a lot to do tomorrow either. I have two weeks off from work, although most of the time I'll still be working in order to help out my family.
Moving on… What's with this development? They cropped everything into one episode… Why? We left last week's episode with Masaru's emotional draw. He did not become champion and retiring was definitely on his mind until his girlfriend used her 'feminine charms' to cheer him up. Why is it that he showed up with a smile on his face and two of the ugliest characters I've ever seen? Not only did those two everything humanly possible to make themselves look like Masaru, which is kind of sad when you think about it, but they also listen to his every word as though he was some kind of god. It gave me the creeps.
On a more serious note, Mamoru never seizes to amaze. He goes through opponents like I go through candy. He doesn't panic, he doesn't complain and he always has one thing in mind; improvement. He is seriously planning on relinquishing his title to move up another weight class. That character is seriously overpowered.
I'm actually more focussed on Mamoru right now than I am on Ippo. Sure, Ippo has a fight coming up against a very scary opponent. You really don't want to find yourself in a tight spot with that guy at the other end. You'll die. But yeah, Mamoru's decision to move up to a heavier weight class has got my full attention right now.


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Just Add Light and Stir
Inspiration and Encouragement for Unschooling Parents
Friday, June 9, 2017
Looking and learning
"For us, right where our kids were—loving music and TV and video games—was a great starting place for more. Going to concerts, finding out how different bands have influenced each other, figuring out how people have made the movies they've posted on YouTube, researching FAQs, talking with other gamers, looking up weapons that are used in the video games, playing the music we've heard in video games, pretending and finding new connections through our pretend games, talking through the logic of different strategies, looking up actors on IMDB—all of this keeps leading to more and more learning about how the world works, about how the creative process works."
—Amy Carpenter
photo by Rhiannon Theurer
Posted by
Sandra Dodd
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Topeka, KS--- Interim Kansas Securities Commissioner Josh Ney along with Governor Sam Brownback awarded three students from Salina South High School, along with their teacher, with iPad minis for their winning video submission in the 2nd Annual Kansas Financial Scholars Program Video Contest. State legislators from the Salina area that were present were Senator Tom Arpke, Representative J.R. Claeys, and Representative Steven Johnson. EverFi representative Chris Noel was also present at the ceremony in the capitol.
The Salina South video titled "Financial Literacy" begins with two high school students wondering about how to manage their money in college. A third student comes to the rescue, giving them sound financial advice about mortgages, identity theft, investing, credit cards and more through a clever rap that gives the students a fresh perspective about how they could handle their financial concerns.
Mrs. Susan Montoy teaches Computer Applications courses at Salina South, and has recently started implementing the EverFi Kansas Financial Scholars Program into her classes. Her students who created the winning video were Logan Meis, Kalpit Patel, and Michael Linton. All three young men are seniors this year and are currently working toward receiving their Financial Scholars Program Certification.
"Our office is pleased to see schools like Salina South High School making financial literacy education a priority in their classrooms. It is a critical skill that we believe can be most effective when taught at a young age," said Interim Commissioner Ney. "We are planning to use the winning video 'Financial Literacy' as an educational tool to help engage more young people in financial education awareness."
The Kansas Financial Scholars Program is a web-based curriculum which uses the latest in new media technologies and is offered at no charge to all Kansas public and private schools, as well as home school students. The 10-unit course is aligned to the Kansas State Standards and offers co-curricular programming aimed at teaching, assessing and certifying students in a variety of financial topics including credit scores, insurance, credit cards, student loans, mortgages, taxes, stocks, savings, 401k's and other critical concepts that map to national financial literacy standards.
Teachers who have not yet signed up for the Kansas Financial Scholars Program may contact the Securities Commissioner's office for information on how to sign up and participate in the program.
Questions about the Kansas Financial Scholars Program can be directed to Shannon Stone, Director of Investor Education at firstname.lastname@example.com or by phone at 913.652.9164.


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C-Rayz Walz and Kosha Dillz
Most historians, cultural critics and hip hop intellectuals will tell you that hip-hop is inherently political. Its humble beginnings within marginalized communities spoke volumes locally. And when it comes to larger-scale issues, like the modern day Mid-East conflict, it's no secret which side hip-hop generally leans towards. Judaism has never been a particularly safe bet – it was never framed as the rebels' religion of choice. So when a proudly-Jewish emcee teams up with a brother from New York, it's difficult to keep politics out of the mix.
On the surface, Freestyle vs. Written – a project featuring C-Rayz Walz and Kosha Dillz – could be any indie LP by any indie artist. It could be filed neatly under the "underground hip-hop" category with its safe, traditional hip-hop sound. However, it is different thematically. Kosha Dillz offers a candidly Jewish perspective throughout – exactly what you'd expect with titles like, "I Love Jews," and "Ariel Sharon."
With many young urbanites residing on the left of the political spectrum, rocking the familiar black and white kuffiyeh (often interpreted as a symbol of solidarity with Palestine), references to "the state of Israel" and "terrorists" are bound to raise eyebrows. But regardless of your political slant, Kosha Dillz is entitled to his.
The admirable sincerity of "Babywipes" and "Holiday" are noteworthy, although the tendency to rehash similar themes in every song eventually wears thin. But the consistently well-crafted lyrics that make you question whether or not they truly are all off the top, are testament to C-Rayz's talent.
Both emcees manage to hold down their end of the freestyle-written deal, with witty, irreverent lyrics and candor. Freestyle vs. Written scores points for trying something different, even if it isn't the most entertaining.
– Alison Isaac


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VISUAL JAPAN SUMMIT 2016 Day 2: Part 1
live report - 30/10/2016 - Part 1 of the second day of VISUAL JAPAN SUMMIT 2016.
lynch. - AVANTGARDE
review - 26/10/2016 - lynch. bring an exciting new take on their metalcore style to their new full-length album.
Video Interview with KOM_I from Wednesday Campanella at J-POP SUMMIT 2016
interview - 22/10/2016 - Wednesday Campanella's frontwoman speaks to JaME in a casual video interview punctuated by laughter.
Video Interview with YANAKIKU at J-POP SUMMIT 2016
interview - 19/10/2016 - Meet the kimono cosplay duo at J-POP SUMMIT 2016!
JaME WORLD Charts on PROMIC.tv #15
file - 18/10/2016 - The pioneers of visual kei come out tops in the latest JaME WORLD Charts on PROMIC.tv!
AMATSUKI - Hakoniwa Dramatic
review - 17/10/2016 - After his performance at MCM in London this spring, the singer now aims for the European audience in general.
RAMI - Aspiration
review - 14/10/2016 - With a little help from the GALNERYUS boys, the one-time queen of "girls metal" gets her solo career off to an intriguing start.
GYZE in Warsaw, Poland
live report - 12/10/2016 - Violence and fascination.
SCANDAL at O2 Academy, London
live report - 09/10/2016 - All-girl rock sensation SCANDAL perform a fun-filled set in the UK's capital on September 24th.
NOCTURNAL BLOODLUST at Underworld, London
live report - 07/10/2016 - Metalcore band NOCTURNAL BLOODLUST takes London by the devil's horns and party the night away!
Interview with YAMA-B
interview - 04/10/2016 - Heavy metal man YAMA-B shines a light on his solo project REKION.
SCANDAL in Cologne, Germany
live report - 01/10/2016 - During their second tour SCANDAL stirred up their fans at Cologne's Luxor.


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When we demolished our deck to rebuild it,
we discovered these sunglasses and the driver's side door
of a Karmenn Ghia...
of a Karmenn Ghia...
When we built the new deck,
we stowed the car door beneath it for later rediscovery.
The End
very interesting ... do tell more ;)
my JJJ is a Karman Ghia fan and has owned several so far ... I guess he's a VW man thru and thru
Happy Tuesday!
that is a great lead in to some kind of an adventure ... what a mystery!!!
I like that you put it back. Did you write a mysterious note to leave with it! You could have signed it "Ruby"!
A Karmenn Ghia? I need to start opening up wikipedia or an online dictionary before I visit here. LOL!
(It is a good story though.)
How fun! I grew up with V-dubs. Good memories attached to those. I think that so great that you put the door back for later discovery. Did you put a note or anything with it??


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Current Articles
RSS Feeds
With the launching of the team for 2011 confirmed recently by the Schleck brothers, more details are emerging about the likely line-up for the new, as yet anonymous team to be based in Luxembourg. As expected, many of those who competed with Team Saxo Bank are expected to line out with Andy and Frank Schleck, including Jakob Fuglsang, Stuart O'Grady, Jens Voigt and Dominic Klemme. According to Biciciclismo, these six riders will be joined by seven others, namely Team Milram team-mates Linus Gerdemann and Fabian Wegman, the Italian sprinter Daniele Bennati (Liquigas-Doimo), 2009 Tour de France stage winner Brice Feillu (Vacansoleil), Maxime Monfort (HTC-Columbia), Joost Posthuma (Rabobank) and Robert Wagner (Skil-Shimano). Those thirteen are billed as certainties, or near-certainties, while two others are said to be probable additions to the team. They are two more Saxo Bank riders – Anders Lund and Laurent Didier. In all, there are expected to be approximately 25 riders on the team, leaving ten more names to be either signed or revealed. There have been very little details released about the project, with the name of the sponsors still not announced. The radio silence prompted speculation that the team might have run into difficulties, but those rumours were dispelled in a short message by Frank Schleck on August 14th. "Next year we, Andy and myself, will be part of an amazing project based in our home country," he wrote on Twitter. "It will be the NEW BIG TEAM in professional cycling. More news to follow in the coming month." Former Team Saxo Bank employees Brian Nygaard and Kim Andersen will be running the setup. Nygaard was working in the early part of this year as press officer for Team Sky, while Andersen was part of Saxo Bank until he and Bjarne Riis parted ways prior to the start of the Tour de France.


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Choosing a moving company can be a huge decision because you care about your possessions. It is important to make sure you fully understand the services provided by the moving company, generic cialis viagra and the rates.
At Master Movers, best viagra we want to help our customers make the decision easier. Here are some questions we think any professional moving company needs to be asked:
- Is the moving company licensed?
- Do they have any extra charges for larger Items, such as large screen televisions, extra flights of stairs, or weekend orevening moves?
- What type of payment options do they accept? Many companies do not accept credit cards.
- What kind of cancellation policy do they have? You should always be able to cancel or postpone until a few days before your move.
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Hear the first effort from the collaboration with Admiral Fallow's Sarah Hayes.
Album Reviews
Field Music's Peter Brewis' new project, You Tell Me, breaks down self-titled debut Track by Track: Stream
on January 09, 2019, 12:45pm
Album Review: Field Music – Commontime
UK art rockers struggle to find a consistent tone.
by Pat Levy
on February 05, 2016, 12:01am
Field Music share sexy new jam "Disappointed" — listen
UK duo returns next month with new LP Commontime.
by Ben Kaye
on January 13, 2016, 11:30am
Field Music announce new album, Commontime, premiere "The Noisy Days Are Over" — listen
Plus, the UK outfit is set to tour the US this March.
by Ben Kaye
on October 13, 2015, 10:10am
Mercury Prize 2012 nominations revealed
Jessie Ware, Richard Hawley, and Django Django are finalists for the UK's best album award.
by staff
on September 12, 2012, 12:52pm
Check Out: Bill Callahan, Cass McCombs, My Brightest Diamond cover Leonard Cohen
via MOJO's new Cohen covers album.
on February 06, 2012, 3:19pm
Primavera Sound reveals 2012 lineup
New additions include Refused, Beiurt, Chavez, and Wavves.
on January 30, 2012, 9:00am
Field Music maps out fall tour
Returning to The States this fall.
on September 19, 2010, 11:30am
Field Music Measure out new album, tour dates
Now healthy, the U.K. outfit gears up for a busy 2010…
on December 28, 2009, 9:05am
Pulsars reunite for field day with Field Music in NYC
When it comes to reunions, Brooklyn's Bell House will be getting a double serving on December 3rd.
by Joe Marvilli
on November 19, 2009, 12:30pm


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Part 1 (no 225)
- Silent ambassadors of the State: symbols of national identity on the Great Seals and coins of the United Kingdom. By Adrian Ailes (pp. 1-22, with plates 1-6).
- A Wrottesley hatchment recovered. By Joseph J. Gwara and Philip A. Hayden (pp. 23-46, with plates 7 and 8).
Book reviews
- Jones, Bloodied Banners. By Michael J. Lewis (pp. 47-9).
- Barber, Edward III and the Triumph of England. By Michael Hicks (pp. 49-50).
- Broadway, William Dugdale. By Lynsey Darby (pp. 50-52).
Recent and forthcoming items of interest
- Artefacts reported under the Treasure Act and Portable Antiquities Scheme (pp. 53-6).
- Conferences, lectures, websites and podcasts (pp. 57-66).
Part 2 (no 226)
- Understanding shield emblems on ancient Athenian vases: the case of Geryon's many shields. By N. G. Mattias Engdahl (pp. 67-76, with plate 1).
- A note on Sir Sanchet d'Abrichecourt, one of the first founders of the Order of the Garter. By Lisa Jefferson (pp. 77-84, with plate 2).
- The College of Arms and the Second World War. By Peter O'Donoghue (pp. 85-102, with plates 3-5).
Book reviews
- Almanach de Gotha volume II (2013). By J. H. C. Williams (pp. 103-4).
- Popoff, Royaume de Naples and Venise. By Clive Cheesman (pp. 104-5).
Shorter note
- The gold 'noble' of Edward III – an erratum. By Adrian Ailes (p. 105, with plate 6).
Recent and forthcoming items of interest
- Artefacts reported under the Treasure Act and Portable Antiquities Scheme (pp. 107-12).
- Conferences, lectures, websites and podcasts (pp. 113-24).


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Your North Brisbane Property Management Specialists!
Enquire Online Rental Appraisal
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We care about our North Brisbane investors and know that property management effectively requires good organisational skills, good knowledge of property management legislation and a strong work ethic. We do this efficiently but have many points of difference to our competitors, the most significant of which is that we CARE! We care about you, your investment returns and your tenants. It takes a lot of dedication to find a happy balance between these three stakeholders, but we take pride in doing it right.
We are a FAMILY owned, close knit company!
Secondly, Touch Residential Pty Ltd is a family business based in Brighton QLD. We do not have a rent roll of hundreds of properties. We are a small, boutique, modern agency that understands the importance of TIME. We know that the biggest challenge for everybody is not having enough hours in the day. We keep our business close and our clients closer, to ensure that every client and their corresponding properties are given the time they deserve. We are a partnership team, with an 10 year amalgamation of industry experience. To learn more about us, please click here.
"After having our rental property vacant for several months, we made the switch to Touch Residential and Shelley had the property leased within five days of relaunching to the market. The professional approach, brilliant communication and a clear and concise plan of attack made the whole process seamless and stress free. Would definitely recommend"
Luke Donnelley – Landlord
Showing TLC when leasing your property!
We understand the shifts in today's society. We are no longer reading the newspaper and hardly even listening to the radio. Our smart phones have become our best friends – we read the news on them, we learn on them, we socialise on them and yes – we search for property on them! Our social media skills are next level and we can show you how affordably we can broadcast your property that is seeking a new tenant to as many eyes as possible (check out our Facebook page here).
Applications for your property are treated as priority one by ensuring we act promptly, do tenancy history checks, employment reference checks and personal reference checks. Applicants will always be given copies of a blank lease agreement with our terms and conditions, so there is full transparency from the start, to identify far before it is too late if they are not the right candidates for your property.
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We LOVE good communication!
We place a lot of emphasis on starting the tenancy on the right note. We do thorough tenancy inductions to ensure tenants understand our processes that protect you, including:
- Maintenance requests MUST be in writing to avoid confusion
- The first routine inspection of the tenancy will be conducted only 8 weeks into the tenancy
- We invite landlords to inspections
- One day behind in rent is one day behind in rent. It will be identified, followed up and taken into consideration when renewing leases if there are repeat offences
- Lease renewal offers including market rent reviews are negotiated 3 months prior to the expiry of the existing lease
- Pre-vacate inspections are conducted prior to tenants moving out so that the tenant will feel confident with what is expected of them, in order to minimise vacancy time for the landlord
We have INVESTED in modern systems to make managing your property smooth!
Our rent roll is our baby and also our asset. We thought long and hard about how to integrate a property management division into our business which involved lengthy investigation into software systems that would retain our information and facilitate your rental disbursements. We have chosen a system called Property Tree which is on the cloud – accessible anytime, anywhere in your property manager's pocket on their phone or iPad.
Property Tree also has a portal to which we gave our landlords and tenants access. You can login at your leisure to check up on your account with Touch Residential Pty Ltd. We have nothing to hide and want you to feel involved in your property, hence we chose this fresh and flawless system so that you are never left feeling uncertain.
"This is such a great company. Shelley and Matt go over and above to look after their customers. I was referred to them by someone else, and I highly recommend them. As a new landlord, I needed the right advice, and knew that I could trust them from the day we met"
Mel Hagarty – Landlord
We are ALWAYS open!
As mentioned, we are a family business who love good communication. This means that we never make ourselves unavailable for our clients. At any time, you can call us, email us, or message us on our Facebook page and we will respond as quickly as we possibly can. We will always discuss upon commencement of working together your preferred method of communication too, so that we don't interrupt you at work if that is not suitable in your profession, or call your spouse by accident if they aren't the primary point of contact about the property.
Management fees don't need to complicated!
We have a simplified fee structure where you will not be paying unnecessary fees such as postage & petties, periodic inspection fees, lease renewal fees, maintenance fees etc. We believe these tasks are all part of the day to day responsibility of your property manager.
Contact us today to find out our rates and offers.
Enquire Online Rental Appraisal
The next steps…
If you need any advice on how to get started, anything from a rental appraisal or the right way to approach a change of agent, feel free to get in 'Touch' with Shelley at your convenience on: 0432 036 835 or firstname.lastname@example.com. You can also request an appraisal or enquire online with the buttons above.
Shelley is an REIQ Accredited Practising Member (testimonials can be viewed here) and would be only to happy to work through the timeline with you.


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Netzwerk Smart City Berlin
Smart City Berlin Network
Driver for innovations & commitment for Berlin
- The Smart City Berlin Network is a working group initiated by Berlin Partner for Business and Technology and TSB (Technology Foundation Berlin) that includes more than 100 companies as well as science and research institutes from Berlin that seek to promote Berlin as a smart city and want to see Berlin ranked among the leading smart cities in Europe.
- The Smart City Berlin Network is committed to making Berlin a city of the future for citizens as well as the private and public sectors, which will work together in a new, smart urban culture / society to make Berlin a national and international innovation leader. Berlin will be seen as an urban laboratory, showcase and reference city for products and services of the future.
- The Smart City Berlin Network was actively involved in shaping the smart city strategy of the state of Berlin. Not only is it seen as a supporting driving force behind this development, but also as an implementer and network generator.
- The Smart City Berlin Network is an ambassador for Smart City Berlin and dialog partner for policy makers. It also provides strategic impulses, namely by developing the Smart City Berlin Charter (German) and the vision for Smart City Berlin.
What the Smart City Berlin Network offers:
- Open high-level Smart City Berlin Network
- Experience in initiating, developing and implementing projects
- Support at conferences and workshops, e.g. Metropolitan Solutions / APW, Smart City Summit (German)
- Acquisition and participation of committed partners
- High integration and synergy capacity of (flagship) projects
- Rapid ability to implement through narrow and strategized cooperation of all parties involved
- Effective use of the multiplier effect
- Science and industry as reliable partners on the road to Smart City Berlin
- Visibility of success in application
- Smart City Berlin as an urban lab with numerous testing fields in which network partners are very actively engaged (e.g. TU Berlin Urban Lab, Campus Charlottenburg, etc.)
- Direct communication with Berlin policymakers
- The network is a partner for H2020 applications


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U.S. falls to Australia, 1-0, in third preliminary match
LONDON – Australia's Anna Flanagan scored on a penalty corner in the 33rd minute, to defeat the U.S. 1-0 this morning at Riverbank Arena in London's Olympic Park.
"We are very disappointed with the outcome," said Head Coach Lee Bodimeade in a post-game press conference. "This match was one we targeted as getting three points in and today we came up empty. We had chances, but unfortunately did not capitalize."
Australia opened the first half with two penalty corners, but Flanagan sent both drag-flicks wide. Katie O'Donnell (Blue Bell, Pa.) was consistent in creating scoring opportunities inside in the circle, but couldn't knock one past Australia's goalkeeper.
After much back and forth action, a penalty corner was awarded to the U.S. with seven minutes remaining in the first half. Rachel Dawson (Berlin, N.J.), who's celebrating her 27th birthday today, fired a direct shot that was stopped by a defender's foot and a penalty stroke was called. Lauren Crandall (Dolyestown, Pa.), a frequent stroker for the U.S., placed the ball exactly where she intended, to the low left corner of the cage. It was a good attempt, and Australia's goalkeeper made a great save to keep a scoreless match.
Australia capitalized on the missed opportunity by the U.S. as Flanagan converted her third drag-flick attempt into a goal to take a 1-0 lead in the finals minutes of the first half.
The U.S. played solid defense in the second half and goalkeeper Amy Swensen (Grantville, Pa.) made critical saves to keep the U.S. in the game. Michelle Kasold (Chapel Hill, N.C.) and Melissa Gonzalez (Mohegan Lake, N.Y.) applied pressure and had some convincing scoring opportunities, but again, could not capitalize. Australia held on for a second win in the preliminary rounds, keeping their semi-final hopes intact.
"Australia got three points off of us today, and when every game is a must-win and you let points slip away, it hurts you in the end," said Crandall. "We have two more games left so we're definitely looking to get three points out of the New Zealand and South Africa games. We've got to refocus and get back to how we know how to play."
The U.S. is hopeful to get back on track in the match against New Zealand on Saturday, August 4. The U.S. vs. New Zealand matchup will be broadcast live on NBC Sports Network at 2:00 p.m. ET. New Zealand currently has two wins in the tournament and will face Argentina this evening at 9:15 p.m for their third Olympic match.
USA Field Hockey Press Release


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ESFA National Trophy Quarter Finalists
17th Jan 2017
ESFA National Trophy Quarter Finalists
The year 10 football team are through to the quarter finals of the ESFA National trophy. They beat St. Bede from Carlisle 8-1 to progress. Previous rounds have included a 6-1 win over Thomas Hepburn School, a 8-1 victory against a school from Harrogate and a 4-3 victory against Staindrop.
They will play Stretford Grammar School from Manchester in the quarter final. Best of luck boys!


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Why not come along to one of our upcoming events? You could be one of the first to see our new technology in action. You can also meet some members of our dynamic design team.
We showcase our latest technology throughout the year at several of the largest marine exhibitions and events, we'd love to see you at one of them.
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« Harlem Children's Zone Responds to the Brookings Study | Main | A Heads Up on Some New Studies on Teaching »
Making Sense of the Research on Charter Schools
It's hard to make sense of all the differing findings coming out of new studies on charter schools. A couple of studies suggest that students in charter schools fare no better than their peers in more-traditional public school settings, while others find that charters have a positive effect on student learning. Which conclusion is right?
Mathematica researcher Brian Gill attempted to address that difficult question in a webinar hosted Friday by the research group's Center for Improving Research Evidence. Gill sees some reason for hope in the national randomized study on charter schools that was released last month by the federal Institute of Education Sciences. (Mathematica also conducted that study.)
"Before this new IES national study came out, it would have been possible to take the view that the differences were attributable to methodological differences in the studies," Gill said in a telephone conversation after the webinar. The studies that assigned students to experimental and control groups based on admissions lotteries tended to find positive effects, while the nonexperimental studies yielded more mixed results. The Mathematica study broke the pattern, however, because it was a randomized study that found charter pupils in general were no more successful in school than their counterparts in regular public schools.
Rather than muddle the research picture, Gill said the Mathematica findings pointed up some areas in which the research seems to be converging. For instance, several studies show that charters are more successful with disadvantaged students in urban school systems and less effective with suburban populations. (Mike Petrilli makes a similar observation this month in this post.)
"From the perspective of a researcher, that's encouraging," Gill said, "and it suggests that maybe, in fact, we can conduct nonexperimental studies that can replicate the experimental findings." That's important, Gill says, because it's really hard to find enough oversubscribed charters to do large, credible randomized studies. And you have to wonder, if you're only studying schools that people are banging on the door to get into, whether you're getting an accurate picture of what's going on in the full range of schools that exist.
"As valuable as the admissions-lottery studies are, we need more than just that," he said.
The consistent findings on charter schools' effectiveness with disadvantaged, urban populations—and their apparent ineffectiveness in suburbia—also made Gill wonder why middle-class parents continue to choose them. "One thought I had was that maybe middle-class families are looking for something other than test scores," he said. (Petrilli raises this question, too, in his analysis.)
"I think the findings tend to reinforce the point that a lot people are making, which is that we need to have more and richer measures of school performance," Gill added. The recent final results from the District of Columbia voucher program suggest a case in point: Students in those schools didn't experience any dramatic gains in test scores, but college-going rates saw a big jump.
Gill says the next generation of studies on charter schools is now taking a closer look under the hood to see what effective charter schools might be doing differently from everyone else. "In a sense, doing that kind of research can help us move in the direction of fulfilling one of key purposes of charter schools, which is to serve as laboratories of innovation," he said.