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The Gargano
The Gargano peninsula, known as the spur of Italy, covers an area of almost 3,000 square kilometers. A veritable limestone island of mountains (between 600m and 1,000m high), the Gargano's very inaccessibility and total independence from the Apennines and the rest of Italy determined its very nature and customs. Once a remote place, unaffected by the outside world it developed, and has amazingly managed to maintain, its charm, traditions, characteristics and unique dialects.
The rugged coastline is dotted with ancient villages, the interior is a mountainous region of deciduous forest. Between the forest and the sea, the landscape is an ocean of olives and pine woods. Along the northern coast two large sea-water lakes are home to all manner of wildfowl and the southern coast is bounded by the Gulf of Manfredonia. The whole being a National Park.
Gargano has 200km of beautiful, primitive, unspoilt coastline, much of it only
accessible by boat. Sandy beaches,
pebbly bays, rocky coves, sand dunes, sheer cliffs, caves and magnificent
stacks; all natural works of art and architecture sculpted by sea and wind.
The Tremiti Islands are jewels in the Gargano crown; surrounded by
crystal clear waters teeming with many species of sea flora and fauna.
are true natural havens to be found in the Gargano, the Foresta Umbra being the
most famous. The "Shady
Forest", the biggest broad-leaf forest in Italy, extends over some 15,000 hectares of the heart of the Gargano
- a
mere 15% of what it used to be. In these Gargano woodlands and forests
Beech, Maple, Fir and Chestnut grow to monumental size and beneath these giants a myriad of
flora and fauna abound.
summer you might see a green frog near a watercourse or and emerald toad.
In spring, with a little luck you might spot the mating dance of a newt, and
lizards are never far away from footpaths, though vipers mostly confine
themselves to sunny spots in higher mountain areas. The forests are the
kingdom of the rare Gargano Roe deer, wild boar, wild cats, badgers, hedgehogs,
martens, dormice, foxes, owls and many other creatures.
In summer you might see a green frog near a watercourse or and emerald toad. In spring, with a little luck you might spot the mating dance of a newt, and lizards are never far away from footpaths, though vipers mostly confine themselves to sunny spots in higher mountain areas. The forests are the kingdom of the rare Gargano Roe deer, wild boar, wild cats, badgers, hedgehogs, martens, dormice, foxes, owls and many other creatures.
Numerous species of birds can be seen on the Gargano peninsula, some are permanent residents, some are summer visitors and some are just passing through. Ravens, hoopoes, woodpeckers, cuckoos, golden oriols, bee-eaters, blackbirds, blue rock thrushes, swifts, serins, tree creepers, robins, tits, wagtails, finches, and nut hatches; herons, cranes, flamingos, oystercatchers, avocets, kingfishers, waders and curlews; eagles, buzzards, kites, kestrels, peregrine falcons, and owls (eagle, tawny, barn, and little). These to name just a few.
FLORA The variety of eco-systems in the Gargano and indeed its geographical position, makes for an interesting botanical crossroads. Here Apennine and Central European plants thrive as well as the more distinctly Mediterranean and Balkan species. In fact, the Gargano boasts more than 2,200 botanical species - 35% of all plant species found in the whole of Italy.
Most notably, a Mediterranean record number of orchid species flourish in the Gargano and can be seen flowering between February and September. An ever increasing number of varieties have been identified - 61 at the last count. 47 different species have been classified in the environs of Monte Sacro alone, including the widespread Ophyrs Garganica, Ophrys Bertolonii and Ophrys Apulica.
to its splendid isolation, manual dexterity and creativity are innate in the
people of the Gargano. A huge
variety of objects are still produced according to ancient traditions. The development of local crafts is directly linked to the
agricultural life and many objects were made to ease the burden of work on the
land, at sea, in the stable as well as in the home.
Stone Masonary A craft that is still very much live with many local stonemasons working marbles from Italy and all over the world. Their creations include mullions and sills for doorways and windows, hand carved crested keystones, fire surrounds, garden sinks, troughs, tabletops and decorative plaques.
Wood Work In the Gargano, land of woods and forests, there are a huge number of carpenters. Beautiful pieces of furniture, including the very typical settle, are crafted from some of the many different wood types produced locally. Turned and hand carved bowls, boxes, chopping boards, spoons, and forks too. Olivewood is a major protagonist; the olive tree dominating the Gargano as it does.
Though in recent years numbers have diminished, many villages still
have ironmongers who will make all manner of things, including wrought
iron beds, gates, railings, door furniture, farming implements or copper guttering, ewers and bed
Each village had its own distinguishable style of making and decorating
items such as cooking pots, plates, jugs and jars, large and small, for storing
water, oil, olives and all kinds of preserves.
Small potteries now turn out similar designs as well as new, mostly for
the souvenir industry.
Old wooden looms, though few these days, turn out lengths of cloth, woven
with hand-spun threads then fashioned into napkins, hand towels, pillowcases,
tablecloths and even handbags. Embroidered
decoration is applied, just as it used to be by young girls for their bottom
drawers. Crochet is very much alive
as a craft with inspiration for designs coming from nature, the simple life on
the land and at sea and very often from religion.
Basketry A craft that is slowly dying out, as few of the old craftsmen are willing to give away their secrets and even fewer of the young want to learn. Some wonderful characteristic baskets are still to be found for sale at some of the many regular markets in the territory.
ON THE GARGANO TABLE The local diet, rich and varied, is typically Mediterranean. Fish features strongly as do locally produced olive oil, meats, cheeses, vegetables, tomatoes, oranges and bread. And of course all the usual imported produce mostly from Italy.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil The main oil production region is in the north east of the Gargano (Cagnano, Varano, Ischitella, Vico del Gargano, Vieste). Ogliarola Garganica is the most prevalent variety, many of these trees centuries old with huge girths, but other varieties are also given growing space: Coratina, Peranzana and Rotondella. The olive oil produced in the Gargano is said to be one of the best in Italy, indeed the world.
Cheese Many small shepherded herds of goat and sheep are still commonplace and often block the path of motorised vehicles along the hill roads of the Gargano. It is not unusual to come across a small herd of cattle wandering through the woods unattended, great bells donging round their necks. These "Podolico" cattle, and the rarer buffalo, provide the milk that goes into making some of the best cheeses in Italy: Caciocavallo, Pecorino, Cacioricotta, Mozzarella and Ricotta, to name but a few.
Pasta Despite the availability of excellent dried pastas it is not uncommon to make fresh pasta at home, especially for special feast days. Pasta is made by old and young alike. Flour, water and salt are the ingredients used (egg pasta is rarely made).
The most typical
Pugliese pasta shapes are Orecchiette (little ears), shaped using the thumb;
Maccaroni, traditionally made with the help of a square spoke from an antique umbrella;
Introccioli (short square spaghetti) and Tagliarini (long square spaghetti),
both made with the help of a chitarra (guitar-like cutting instrument).
Fruit Among the many varieties of fruit grown here oranges and lemons are by far the most important, including the Femminello del Gargano, the oldest lemon in Italy, and the Melangolo Dole del Gargano, the sweetest of sweet oranges. Many varieties of fig are grown, as are loganberries (black and white), loquats, prickly pears, pomegranates, walnuts and almonds, among others.
Chard, turnip tops and spinach are favourite greens; cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli too. Broad beans and French are enjoyed in season, whilst pumpkin and many kinds of dried beans and pulses add variety to the table during the leaner winter months. The biggest local crop though is tomato - almost every household here makes their own Passata.
Meat Goat, or rather kid, is by far favourite. The native Capra Garganica, recognizable by its long black hair, large stocky head, quiffed forehead, bearded chin and arching horns, is particularly well adapted to the territory it grazes freely. Sheep are raised and eaten more and more as the price of goat meat rises and the odd family of pigs can often be seen foraging under the trees, both in woodland and olive grove. Wild boar is hunted for its much-prized meat and is usually only available in restaurants. Beef, or rather veal, is much loved although very little is actually grown here - the free-range grey "Podolico" cattle are more valued for their cheese making milk - although, as demand for the excellent beef that is produced grows, more and more locally produced beef is beginning to appear on the local butchers counters.
Seafood Clams, mussels, cuttlefish, octopus and grey mullet are the varieties most commonly caught locally. If you are really lucky you can buy them directly from the fisherman on the beaches where they work. Other fish, predominantly Mediterranean caught, include anchovy, red mullet, cod, gurnard, sea bass, sea bream, John Dory, turbot mackerel tuna, swordfish, squid, lobster, crab, scampi, prawn, oyster - the list is almost endless.
Natures Larder The people of the Gargano have a passion for wild food and not only because it is free. A variety of greens, herbs, fruits and nuts are collected for the kitchen, many of which are now only known by the older generations. Senape (mustard greens). borragine (borrage), cicoria (dandelion-like chicory), aspargi (wild asparagus), origano (oregano), finnocchietto (wild fennel), melacotogna (quince), nespola (loquat), pera (pear), sorbola (service fruit), nocciolino (hazelnut), to name the most common.
Wild mushrooms are a particular favourite. Between August and November many venture out into the forests and olive groves armed with sticks and baskets (and nowadays licences too) to seek out this highly prized ingredient. From their hunting grounds, fiercely kept secrets, they will bring back Porcini (Penny Bun), Fungo di Carrubo (Chicken of the Woods), Gallinella (Chanterelle), Ovolo (Caesars Mushroom), Chiodino (Honey Fungus), Stecchino Dorato (Wood Hedgehog) and many more. So popular are funghi here that every autumn a fascinating exhibition is held in Vico del Gargano to display examples of the huge number of varieties, both edible and toxic, to be found in the territory.
Liqueurs & Preserves A tradition for preserving all kinds of foods in all manner of different ways was developed not only to conserve the glut at harvest time but also to ensure a varied diet during the harsher winter months. Salted black olives, green olives in brine, olives in vinegar; artichokes, courgettes, wild grape-hyacinth bulbs, chilli peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes, mackerel and tuna in oil. And of course liqueurs - lemon, orange, cherry, bay leaf, walnut, fennel and many more.
The most interesting of the caverns include La Grotta di San Michele at Monte Sant'Angelo, La Grotta dei Paglicci at Rignano Garganico with its important Paleolithic cave paintings and perhaps the most geologically spectacular of all La Grotta Pian della Macina at Sannicandro Garganico. Among the many sea caves the most noteworthy are to be found around the Tremiti Islands; La Grotta del Bue Marino, La Grotta delle Viole and La Grotta delle Rondinelle.
Lookout Towers
The coastline is dotted with these architectural ancient
features, many now sadly falling into ruin.
Trabucco Wooden fishing structure perched on rocks, overhanging the sea, thought by some to date back to Phoenician times. A fascinating WWF run guided tour of the Trabucco di San Francesco near Vieste demonstrates how this traditional fishing contraption is worked.
Many of
these Trabucchi jut out over the Adriatic around the Gargano coastline and though
some are
still functional, fish stocks are too low to make them viable - several have now
become restaurants. Though often more memorable for their setting
than their cuisine it is worth visiting at least one - Trabucco di Ziana,
Trabucco di Monte Pucci, Trabucco di San Nicola.
Though often more memorable for their setting than their cuisine it is worth visiting at least one - Trabucco di Ziana, Trabucco di Monte Pucci, Trabucco di San Nicola.
Foresta Umbra A wonderful shady forest. See above.
Tremiti Islands Just 12 km from the Gargano coastline and reached by catamaran ferry, these islands, often referred to as the pearls of the Adriatic, are a beautiful destination for a day trip. Apart from the beaches, worth a visit are the Benedictine Monastery (the Abbazia di Santa Maria di Mare) and the remains of a fortified castle. A boat trip around the islands to see some of the many stunning sea caves is not to be missed and for diving enthusiasts the crystal clear waters have much to offer (by special permission only).
The ferries leave daily from Peschici and Rodi - during the busy months of July and August it is advisable to book your tickets in advance.
Villa Oleandro is surrounded by the mountain villages of Vico del Gargano (500 asl), Ischitella (300 asl) and the seaside gems Peschici and Rodi Garganico. Each town has its own market day, held every other week.
These small towns each have a Centro Storico (Historic Centres) with characteristic narrow streets and alleyways filled with charming buildings, interesting architectural features such as crested doorways and unusual chimneys. Peschici's medieval castle is worth a visit as is the Trappeto Maratea Museum (Anient Olive Oil Mill) in Vico.
There are many churches well worth visiting (Vcio has 12) though some open just once a year on the feast day of the saints they host. Speaking of feast days, many Festa's are held in honour of some of the many saints special to the local people. It's well worth trying to fit one of these festivals into your visit to the Gargano, if only for the spectacular ear-popping fireworks display held at the end of each Festa.
There are some lovely beaches nearby too. Calenella is our nearest and Peschici is just 10 minutes further around the coast. The beach from San Menaio to Rodi, only 10 minutes away, stretches for 3 kilometers (see photo above left).
Monte Sant'Angelo A little further afield but worth a visit. Apart from the Centro Storico, there is an ancient castle that has been partially restored and opened to visitors and the underground grotto shrine of Archangel Michael is a must. During the middle ages this basilica was one of the most famous pilgrimage destinations; kings and popes, St Francis of Assisi and Thomas Aquinas all knelt in prayer here, as well as the Crusaders about to embark for the Holy Land.
San Giovanni Rotondo The home of "Padre Pio" (now Saint Pio), in whose honour a magnificent new cathedral has been erected.
Sannicandro Garganico Of interest is the 12th century church of Santa Maria di Monte d'Elio decorated with Byzantine frescoes; also the Museum of History, Archaeology, Ethnography and Farming. Located in the impressive Fioritto Palace in the heart of the old town, with 13 rooms and more than 3,000 exhibits, the museum helps unravel the history of the Gargano.
Vieste Vieste lies on the easternmost point of the Gargano coastline and has its own Centro Storico. Of interest are the triangular castle, now a naval post, and the cathedral. The beach here is beautiful, wide and clean. The Trabucco di San Francesco and the Necropoli La Salata are nearby.
GUIDED EXCURSIONS The Gargano National Park organizes guided tours to help visitors discover the rich heritage, stunning scenery, history and art offered by the Montagna del Sole (Sun Mountain).
For more information and resevations please contact the Gargano National Park Official Tour Guides Association:
Associazione Guide Ufficiali del Parco Nazionale del Gargano
Via S. Antonio Abate 121
71037 Monte Sant'Angelo (FG)
Tel: 0884 568911
Email: email@example.com
Website: www.parcogargano.it
BOAT TRIPS Regular day-long boat trips (depart 9am, return 4.30pm - approximate times) leave from Rodi and travel around the spectacular Gargano coastline. During the busy months of July and August it is advisable to book you ticket in advance.
BEWARE - These boats are completely uncovered so during hot sunny days you will need to equip yourself with adequate protection - sunscreens, suitable clothing and a hat.
Ladies When visiting churches it is advisable to cover up if wearing strappy tops - a scarf thrown over the shoulders will do.
Gentlemen When visiting the underground church at Monte Sant'Angelo, you are required to cover bare knees and shoulders too. If necessary a sarong will be lent to you (free of charge) at the entrance.


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Check Octomom's Video
Remember when OCTOMOM, Nadya Suleman, swore that…no matter what…she NEVER ever would do PORN?!
Awesome! Not only is she doing porn but…the "premise" of the "movie" is that she's home alone!? Where are her FOURTEEN kids?! I do believe this hoochie is my new role (roll) model!!!
If you're into puking, while you pleasure, this cinematic masterpiece is available for purchase tomorrow.
Watch as the 36-year-old single Octomom vigorously molests herself, while attempting to look sexy, surrounded by BABY CLOTHES!? In other shots she gyrates about on leopard print sheets, in booty shorts and a tank top, and then OOOOPS! Out pop her BOOBS. Not finished yet? Perhaps the Octomom ironing topless, in lingerie, will really get your pants stiff.
I do believe Mom-To-Many has found her calling, saying the porn shoot was amazing: "[The shoot was] such a learning experience for me in so many ways. I don't think I could have asked for a better crew to work with. They were so patient and willing to teach me," she explained. "I owe a lot to Wicked Pictures contract star Jessica Drake. She opened my eyes to a whole different world of self-pleasure that I could have never imagined. They made me look so glamorous, and for the first time in my life, I felt beautiful and sexy. I'm very excited for it to come out!"
The porn pay-day couldn't have come at a better time. Octomom's house was foreclosed on yesterday. She says she plans to use the masturbation money to buy her family a large home.
To promote the video, Octomom hit up Howard Stern's show today and will slide by The View tomorrow.
Ready to feast your eyes on an Angelina Jolie wanna-be whose body has been ravaged by the rigors of carrying fourteen children and then put back together by one of L.A.'s finest plastic surgeons? L'GO!!!

subset: commoncrawl


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Corporate park announcement expected next month
A much-anticipated announcement about a major economic development project for High Point is expected this spring.
Developer Robin Team, president of Carolina Investment Properties, said he hopes soon to unveil the name of the first tenant in a planned corporate park at Interstate 74 and N.C. 66.
"We expect we will be in place to announce something by mid-April," Team said last week.
Team has declined to name the prospect, which is expected to locate on the park's first phase of about 100 acres.
City documents state that a 1.2-million-square-foot warehouse and distribution facility is planned for the site. Speculation has centered on Ralph Lauren Corp. as the likely occupant.
Team has represented the company in past expansions in High Point, where it operates several facilities. He has called Ralph Lauren's High Point operations "their major East Coast distribution location."
The City Council has authorized spending about $5 million on water and sewer lines to serve the site, which is in Forsyth County, just north of High Point's limits. The land will be annexed by the city if the project moves ahead.
City Manager Strib Boynton said some preliminary engineering work has been done for the water and sewer infrastructure, but the city won't award a construction contract until a tenant is announced.
The plan is to have the lines in place by spring 2015.
"This hopefully will be the first of several developments in that corporate park," Boynton said. "A lot of work has gone into that site. I've been working on that site intensely for 10 years. I'm very optimistic there will be an announcement soon that will be great news for High Point and the rest of the Triad."
The city's Planning & Zoning Commission has recommended approval of land use and zoning changes requested by Team. The council will consider both cases — a rezoning request for 129 acres within a 438-acre footprint — on March 17.


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I designed this pattern for my 4yo son who loves all things fire related and plans to be a fire man when he grows up.
This pattern makes an 8" block - perfect size for a cushion, or tote bag or make a few and turn them into a sweet little quilt.
Paper piecing instructions are not included. Each section is clearly labelled and seam allowance has been added for each section. All you need to do is print it out and away you go :) I'd suggest you print to "Actual size".
You may sell items made from this pattern on a small scale but please include "Pattern designed by Kristy @ Quiet Play" within the description.
I'm a stay at home mum of two kidlets. They alternate between inspiring me and driving me slightly crazy. I mostly sew for sanity. ;)View all patterns by designer (192) »


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Insights From Senior Industry Practitioners & Advisors
Key players from the central banks, global and sub-custodians, investment strategists, CSDs & CCPs, consultants and brokers. How else can you meet all these industry players in just 2 days (or 3 days if attending the Risk Summit)? All the industry leaders were here
Unparalleled Networking Opportunities
NeMa attracts an audience of over 450 professionals from the network management and securities operations community. We are proud of the extensive global attendance we have: delegates from Latin America, North America, Caribbean, Africa, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Asia are all NeMa regulars. Plus highlights included this year:
That added up to 18 hours of evening social networking - or more if you chose to be a night owl!
Brand New Market Information
There was no need to spend weeks, or even months trying to investigate market developments in the Eurozone and beyond when you are able to gather all the information you need to take your business strategy further forward into 2014 and beyond.
We carried out all the legwork for you, so you are able to just sit back, take notes and get the highest level insight from those in the know.


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Inhaler Approved for Cystic Fibrosis Patients
MONDAY, March 25 (HealthDay News) -- The TOBI Podhaler (tobramycin inhalation powder) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat cystic fibrosis patients infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium that can damage the lungs.
Cystic fibrosis, affecting about 30,000 people in the United States, causes production of thick, sticky mucus that builds up in the lungs. This can lead to chronic bacterial infections, the FDA said in a news release.
The TOBI Podhaler, used twice daily, was evaluated in clinical trials involving 95 adults and children six years and older with cystic fibrosis. The most common side effects included cough, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, fever, mouth and throat pain, changes in voice and headache.
The antibiotic inhaler is marketed by Novartis, based in East Hanover, N.J.
More information
Medline Plus has more about cystic fibrosis.Related Articles
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December 19, 2014
Learn More About Sharp
Sharp HealthCare is San Diego's health care leader with seven hospitals, two medical groups and a health plan. Learn more about our San Diego hospitals, choose a Sharp-affiliated San Diego doctor or browse our comprehensive medical services.
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Programs and Services
The Accelerator offers the newest biotech lab and office space. As an accelerator it's program fosters entrepreneurial ideas—from the company's early stage of formation through commercialization.
Professional Services
Clients receive essential support within the accelerator setting to keep their company running smoothly, including:
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Core Facilities
Business Development SupportThe Accelerator is committed to providing a program that helps companies succeed in the combined biotechnology and entrepreneurial environment. Specifically, the Accelerator will:
- Forge client connections with well-funded researchers and faculty;
- Access to researchers, biologists, chemists and other scientists;
- Immediate proximity to patient care centers, clinicians and medical faculty.
- Business development counsel from experts;
- Access to the intellectual life of the universities, including invitations to events, and lectures.


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that fight could have gone either way
that fight could have gone either way
judges are shit these days
War Horn
cecil peoples was scoring it 10-9 warren just before the stoppage
You've been Skullfucked
Calender of MMA Events Link
Just watched this fight yesterday. Sorry, but I am glad the ref didn't stop it early. I was glad to see Warren get his clocked cleaned even after he turned his back. I think he should change his nickname now.
Ninjabros awards 2010
Addicted to porn Award - kurleedaddee
Quote Originally Posted by iwhoopedbatmansass
I'm awesome, yall are just fucking haters
Peep both my blogs:
he was trying to struggle through
most guys would rather have the chance
War Horn


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A World of Root Beer Resources
Rio Syrup Company Inc.
2311 Chestnut Street
St. Louis, MO 63103
#http://www.riosyrup.com# email@example.com
"We have been manufacturing Root Beer syrup since 1939 in
Saint Louis, Missouri. The company is named after the old Rio Theatre in
Saint Louis where my father Stuart Tomber was the manager." Contributed by Phil Tomber, President
Root Beer World: A World of Root Beer Resources!
Please leave questions & comments in the Root Beer World Forums
Comments are property of their posters, all the rest © 2000-2012 Root-Beer.Org, All Rights Reserved. Legal
All Trademarks are properties of their respective companies.


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LA Times Appoints New Managing Editor, Online
According to Omniture, the website LATimes.com in 2010 registered 1.64 billion page views and 493 million unique visitors. Of that visitor total, 30% were from the southern California area.
This is the purview of Jimmy Orr, who it was announced today will take over as the LA Times' managing editor, online, beginning February 28th. He replaces Sean Gallagher, who is moving to London.
"We are extremely pleased to have Jimmy take on overall responsibility for latimes.com," said Times editor Russ Stanton. "Since joining our newsroom last August, he has made significant strides in improving the usability of the site and we look forward to continued growth."


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KMS 1.2 should be the version your on.
I had to patch mine as we run 2003 R2 still.
If you're using a Windows Server 2008 R2 \ 2012 box for KMS you need to use the Windows Server KMS key from VLSC instead of the Windows 7 \ 8 one...
KMS 1.2 should be the version your on.
I had to patch mine as we run 2003 R2 still.
KMS 1.2 where are you finding that information ?
if your trying to activate win 8 its probably easier to set up a win8 vm to be the kms host just shove the kms key in and it should work no pratting round
Followed that exactly still it says cannot contact activation server for windows 8 clients. Windows 8 reports that no kms is avaliable and on the same pc office says the minimum number of clients has not been reached (however that looks like it will work once i get 5). I think im doing something stupid. Its like the windows 2008 r2 server doesnt know about the windows 8 kms key so its just refusing to work. I keep reading that i need to use a 2012 key which i dont actuarly own.
Last edited by squeeky; 15th February 2013 at 01:51 PM.
have you had a look at the windows firewall on your server? there is an exception in there for KMS that needs to be turned on to accept KMS requests.
here is a step by step guide that worked for me. as long as you have syspreped your windows 7/8 machines and ticked generalize it should work.
also it becomes a host for server after the count reaches 5 but it needs to be 25 count get it to be a client host (from what i read on technet)
Last edited by uffy2000; 15th February 2013 at 01:56 PM.
AHHH ill give this a go "if your trying to activate win 8 its probably easier to set up a win8 vm to be the kms host just shove the kms key in and it should work no pratting round"
ok i have a vm setup and activated with the windows 8 mak key. I have checked the dns entry which doesnt exist because it cant update the server dns i dont think. If I specified the kms manually using /skms it will not activate a client same error
Last edited by squeeky; 15th February 2013 at 03:24 PM.
HORAY !!!! IT WORKS !!!! Well to the point it now says i need more activations to make it work. Anyone know why my rearm count is 1000 ?
I put in a windows 8 client and used the KMS host key and then dns entries etc all just turned up automaticaly now i just need to activate 15 pcs
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My friend from high school was doing this with 300 lbs. I've never seen or read about this before. He was doing bench press with underhand grip of the bar. How does this differ from the overhand? I've never tried it, but it looks dangerous.
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Thread: underhand bench pressing


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|26 Jul 2009
Massive issues with RTM x64
Having installed the x64 RTM build of Windows 7 I am experiencing fairly severe crashing and frequent errors.
Firstly, my specs are as follows:
Gigabyte GA-P35-DQ6 motherboard
Intel Pentium D 2.8GHz processor
3GB DDR2 memory
ATI Radeon HD 2600 PRO graphics
Creative XiFi Xtreme Music PCI soundcard
I verified the ISO with HashTab and fully scanned the install files with MSE.
Everything was going fine, installed the 9.7 Catalyst suite, most recent XiFi drivers, MSE (Microsoft Security Essentials) etc. All basic stuff and all x64 versions.
I then proceeded to install SpywareBlaster from javacoolsoftware as I have done since build 7000. Next thing I knew my CPU usage went up to 100% and when I clicked on the Start Menu Windows Explorer would crash everytime.
After a reboot I noticed that my CPU usage would be fine until I right-clicked on SpywareBlaster in the Start Menu and selected Run as Admin. As soon as I did that then I'd get the 100% CPU usage and Windows Explorer would crash. I submitted the error reports to DONOTHINGSOFT and uninstalled SpywareBlaster, having restarted everything was fine.
Now as I usually rely on Avast/MSE + Spybot S & D + SpywareBlaster I figured I'd try a different program, so I went ahead and installed the latest Ad-Aware official beta.
Again everything seemed fine until I started getting frequent Access Violation messages and the Windows Explorer crashing resurfaced.
I uninstalled Ad-Aware but this time the problem has persisted.
Oddly enough the Guest account my family use appears to remain unaffected.
It's all quite odd, I have used the same combination, tried and tested, since pre build 7000 without issue.
So as to what is going on I am at a complete loss.
Therefore my question/s are:
Has anybody else seen anything like this and/or use/d a similar combination?
Is it possible MS changed something in the RTM and it's just a case of playing catch-up for SpywareBlaster and Ad-Aware?
Can anyone recommend another security program/combination that works well with MSE (I am on the official beta and like the program so will continue to use it) and Spybot S & D, or do we all feel that is sufficient?
I would have reinstalled, but I am fairly tempted now to wait until I can get the official Technet release on the 6th and spend the remaining time trying to resolve the issue and experiment with software.
|My System Specs
|26 Jul 2009
Win 8 Release candidate 8400
While this doesn't explain what is wrong and its a stop gap. Since you said guest wan't affected coldn't you create another user and see if they are affected?
|My System Specs
|26 Jul 2009
Thanks Ken,
Yes, I'll give that a try in the morning as I have given up and opted for Fedora on my laptop.
Still, I'd really like to get to the root of it as I suffer from pretty extreme OCD.
As soon as something goes wrong with an install I like to verify the cause then reinstall avoiding that problem.
Otherwise I get consumed by it, and end up depressed.
|My System Specs
|27 Jul 2009
I have tried creating both a new Standard user and an Administrator account and I can confirm that the issues still exist.
As to why the Guest account is unaffected is a complete mystery to me.
I'm reluctant to do yet another clean install at this point with the 6th looming, and the fact my family moan about stuff not being installed.
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LKHGFDSA http:// www.engadget.com /2013/04/15/seiki-offcially-prices-its-50-inch-4k-tv-at-1500-for-late-april/ I remember alot of people on this site were saying the PS4 doesn't need 4K res games because 4K TVs are too expensive, even though we have about 10 years for the price to come down. Now, many months before the console is even released, Ultra HD TVs are at reasonable prices. Makes me mad that they scrapped having 4k res games. Remember when they even demoed GT5 in 4K res? PS4 is already outdated with it's 1080p maximum resolution. I know everyone's gonna get mad and disagree with what I said, but whatever. my point is, I told you so. They're affordable.
ZoyosJD People are just ridiculous thinking it cost 40 times as much just to get 4 times the resolution 1080p on a single TV.
B Man It was ridiculous at how expensive DVD players were when they first came out compared to VCRs, even though it was much like a CD player. It was ridiculous when Blu-Ray players came out, which were very similar to DVD players. New technology is expensive at first, there's no getting around it. I don't think anyone believes a 4K TV will cost $40,000. $5,000-10,000 is very realistic though.


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From 1999 to 2002, Eve was on a roll. One of hip-hop's most bankable female MCs, her first three albums sold 4 million copies and spawned five Top 40 hits, including well-received collaborations with Gwen Stefani (''Let Me Blow Ya Mind'') and Alicia Keys (''Gangsta Lovin'''). But after a four-year detour into TV, film, and fashion, the Grammy winner has run into some snags while trying to revive her music career. Her forthcoming CD, Here I Am, was initially due in August but has now been delayed until 2008. Meanwhile, her first two singles off the record have struggled to connect with listeners: ''Tambourine'' peaked at No. 10 on Billboard's Hot Rap Tracks chart on July 14, while its follow-up, ''Give It to You,'' hadn't charted at press time. But despite those setbacks, Eve, 28, tells EW she's still got more skills than a lot of male MC's tallying up record sales in the ''testosterone-driven'' rap game, and that she's going to wait until she's 100 percent confident in her new CD before she lets it drop.
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: What's going on here? Why so many delays with this album? Are you scrapping the whole thing and starting over?
EVE: No, I'm not completely starting over. I'm definitely gonna keep some of the records that I had because I love a lot of the stuff that I did. So I'm keeping a lot of it. I'm just going back in to kinda make it a well-rounded album. I think what kind of delayed us this time was that I went in and did two records that sound a lot like the Pharrell record the singing record.... I don't think the movement was right and I'd rather put out an album and feel 100 percent connected to it than just to put out an album, especially the way music is right now.
What do you mean by saying you put out two records that sound like Pharrell? Are you going in a different direction with the new music you're recording for the album?
Not really a different direction, but more of that direction. I don't even know what you would generalize it or call it.
More pop?
I guess you can call it that, but I don't know because it's hard to kinda say that too, because some of the records that I'm keeping, like the rap records, are on that level, so it's kinda hard to say in any way.... I felt like it just wasn't a cohesive record. I felt like I needed to go back in and just make everything match.
Are you happy with the way that ''Tambourine'' and the Sean Paul single [Give It To You] performed?
Oh, I loved it. I think [they] did great. I think, honestly, although the Sean Paul record didn't get as big as we would like it to, the initial response to it was great. So I think that helps. ''Tambourine'' absolutely got the sickest response, so I'm happy with that.
Has it been difficult for you to remount your musical career after being sucked into a TV show and a clothing line for three years?
No, it actually hasn't been that bad. I mean, the response that I've been getting mostly from people is, ''We're happy you're back in music. I'm happy you're back in music.'' But I can't front and not say that there is a new movement of music the way a lot of the music is right now. But no, I think I've been received pretty well. And especially at radio stations and stuff like that, I'm really happy for just the love that I've been getting, the support that I've been getting from radio stations and TV stations that are like, ''Yo, we wanna help you out with this record.'' So that's a good thing.
Speaking of a new musical movement, how do you feel about re-entering a musical landscape that's getting overloaded with female vocalists in an era with virtually no successful female rappers?
In some ways, it's hard. But in other ways, it almost is like I kinda feel like it was when I first came out. Even though there were two females that were in the forefront, but at the same time, there was nobody I felt, in my opinion, like me that came out, so I feel like I'm starting all over. I feel like a new artist again.
What particular challenges have you faced in getting this album off the ground?
It's a lot. It's different. There was a time when you could put out a single and then put your record out five weeks after and you knew if the single did well at radio that told you how your album was gonna do. Nowadays, a single could play for weeks and weeks and weeks on the radio, it could be the biggest single, and the album sales don't match up. So, you know, it's a different format, and I don't even think that anybody has the formula to it now. So it's totally different. You definitely have to go about it a different way. You definitely have to take your time and think and come up with a good strategy, and that aspect is really different.
Has the success of artists like Fergie and Gwen Stefani made it harder for female rappers because they've come in and created a new, pop-friendly mix of pop, hip-hop, and R&B sounds?
I think what makes that hard for us is that they're not hip-hop, period. I'll never, ever be able to give Fergie or Gwen that title. I love them. I think they're dope. I think they make good music. But they're not hip-hop. They emulate hip-hop in certain things that they do, but they're not hip-hop. And I think that hurts hip-hop in a way because it's confusing the lines. I also must admit that hip-hop is the new pop. Like hip-hop five years ago, Soulja Boy couldn't get played on the same station that Fergie was playing on or that the Black Eyed Peas were playing on or that Justin was playing on. Or Justin couldn't be on an urban station five years ago. But now, all the lines have blurred. But at the same time, calling Fergie and Gwen hip-hop hurts females, I think. It hurts the female MCs.
NEXT PAGE: I think I'm better than half these dudes that's out. Some of these dudes can't rap. And I hate to say it like that. [Laughs]


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Taking off from this BRILLIANT 'ible http://www.instructables.com/id/How-To-Make-Your-Own-Sugru-Substitute/ I have started making silicone molds on the cheap and thought I would share. This is incredibly simple and fast and can be used for a ton of casting ideas...
Here is the podcast I did on it:
The basic instructions are below....
Step 1: Materials
You will need:
- SIlicone Calking (the stuff that stinks like vinegar or acetic acid) I have a calking gun but you can get smaller tubes of it at the hardware store
- Mineral Spirits (this is just paint thinner but somewhat less toxic than the rest. NOTE: you can use white gas or camp stove fuel but be CAREFUL if you do use that. The advantage of white gas is that it will cure the mold faster and the mold will not smell like mineral spirits after)
- Corn Starch
- Vaseline
- Latex gloves (or what ever kind you like)
- mixing sticks
- Drill
- Bent nail
- Something to cast or mold
- Small box
- Mixing cups
- Wax paper
- Play dough
Step 2: Prep the item to mold
- To prep the item for the mold cover it with Vaseline (if it is a bit goopey use a blow dryer to melt the Vaseline and smooth things out).
- Next cut the bottom of the box out and place it on a piece of wax paper
- Get some play dough and fill the bottom of the box with a layer thick enough to cover half the figurine (don't put the figurine in yet this is just setting up the base
- Press the figurine into the dough and make sure to cover 1/2 of the figure
- Vaseline the dough and the figure (if it is a bit goopey use a blow dryer to melt the Vaseline and smooth things out).
Good tutorial, thanks for sharing; Jesus Christ Bless you! :)
Thank you so much for this great instructable. I was looking for a cheap way to thin it out to create less bubbles and this is great! I made a colour test video using different mediums to colour resin for casting if anyone is interested. http://youtu.be/gqt8klshYAk
Forty dollars worth of failure. Probably because the State of California does not sell proper Mineral Spirits. The first batch was too thick to pour. The second was better. None of it stuck to the item properly and just fell off it, distorting the pour box and pushing out the sides. Horrible expensive mess.
I tried using 50/50 silicone and cornstarch since I wanted a more clay-like consistency to mold over an object. The stuff never dried and had to throw the whole thing away. I used GE premium waterproof silicone for kitchen/bath/plumbing (100% silicone and regular corn starch. What did I do wrong?
I read that aquarium rtv is food save. If I use this silicone, can I make molds for cake decorations?
I think I will try thinning the silicone with the naphtha before adding the corn starch. If anyone has done this, I'd love to hear about your results. But I will try for myself.
Thanks for a great post, and video, which really helps to see what's in store for me.
Thank you for sharing
Experiment a little.
check out the link for food safe mold making for cake decorating mold making
Maybe try asking for bathtub sealant. Sorry that's the best I can offer.
I would imagine that if you got food grade silicone from a hardware store and only used cornstarch that it would be safe but I am not sure it would be pourable or as manageable as the video shows.
So I say again NO it is not safe for food as is but the above suggestion may make a mold that is usable. I am no expert in this though and you are on your own if you want to experiment with that...
Dont think I am being negative or being a jerk, far from that, we love our fans. I am just being concerned about your health an like our fans to be healthy and alive :) Otherwise they don't promote us nearly as well, last I checked there is no internet connection to the afterlife...
I have used it many times with great results. If you look at my sugar glass 'ible http://www.instructables.com/id/Sugar-Glass/ you'll see my bottle mold in the pics. I have used it to make chocolate bottles, also.
So thank you!!
The one i bought is called 'Heat Mate' in the UK (bought from my fav specialist shop, ebay, lol !)
Plus im going to be using this heat-resistant silicone to make some RC Buggy Parts that are located next to the engine so that it can better protect against a very high heat source !!!
Hope that helps !
Always happy to help !
lol @ pitiful !
As long as your mold serves its purpose i always say it doesnt need to win any beauty-contests as long as it does what you need it to do lol x 2!
Also with repetition you will get much better at creating molds as after the 1st one its all a learning curve & the good ol' trial & error methods !
Just slightly curious thought, is there a specific purpose for having triangular crayons ?!?


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A Valentine
I live on the East coast of Canada and I made this comic for our local alt weekly. They ran it on their Facebook page and website. I love my hometown, you guys!
4 Comments
I'm in Halifax/Dartmouth too! Awesome to see an East Coaster here!
yes halifax is so nice i haven't been there in years though.(I live in new brunswick waahh)
My brother lives there :3 I love halifax
Woah! So I've been reading (and loving) your comics and I never even considered the fact your be close to home or Canadian or anything. (I pictured some busy New Yorker) I'm from PEI! Just thought I'd say its really cool there are maritime artists and people like you and that your stuff is great, and it's cool to think the wonderfulnees is being produced so close to home if I were a creepy stalker can it'd be like "OMG MAYBE WE'VE SEEN TGE SAME SEAGUL SHE PROBABLY TOTALLY SAW THAT SAME CLOUD TODAY!!!' But I'm not crazy like that so hope you have a lovely day


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Daren is a wave of new mini-wave projection lamps, modeling simple, easy to use; Apply to bathrooms, the living room, bedroom or any space, reproduce the sparkling sea at any time a glorious natural beauty, allows you to feel as immersed in the deep sea calm and the sea embrace peace, creating a romantic, leisure and cozy atmosphere of the space to achieve physical and mental relaxation effect. It is also a small stereo, allows you to enjoy the beautiful environment, but also can enjoy the wonderful music.
This product is the use of 4 AA batterier, also supports external USB and 4.5V DC plug, automatic sleep function, an hour later automatically closed ( you can also press the key to close it to open), built-in Mini speaker can be as ipod, mp3 speakers, features intimate and easy to use.
Projected swinging light like a ocean surface makes you relax at Bath Room or Living room.
Water proof
Angle adjustment
Automatic OFF function
Swinging filter
Built-in a mini speaker (via 3.5mm audio jack)
Color: white with blue
Dimension: 135*135*125mm
Weight: 387g
Package include:
1 * Amazing Daren Waves Night Light Projector Speaker Lamp
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From Paula Deen's fall from grace and Miley Cyrus' twerking to the births of Prince George and Kimye's daughter North West, join us for a look back at the year in entertainment.
Full CoverageRight Now
Top entertainment stories of 2013UPDATED 11:30 AM EST Dec 20, 2013
Slideshow Central
CommentsThe views expressed are not those of this site, this station or its affiliated companies. By posting your comments you agree to accept our terms of use.blog comments powered by Disqus


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LIU Brooklyn Event - Africa Forum Nov 9
The Department of Sociology-Anthropology and the Department of English present a one-day conference: "Africans and Supernatural Powers," featuring Professor Michael Bokor. The program features a panel discussion with people who have experienced supernatural events and a screening of the film "The Hour of Grace." Free and open to the general public.
The forum can be taken as a one-credit course. For more information, contact Professor Yusuf Juwayeyi at (718) 488-1168.
Return to Calendar
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Via Outlook
Via Website
Maternal breast provide shelter, warmth and food. Women's breasts are gently, sexy and erotic. But the breasts can be a huge burden for a woman if they are not in line with their body (like on these photos). Today there is a possibility that women reduce or enlarge their breasts, especially if you have a problem because of their weight. Unfortunately, some women do not really know what it means to have nice breasts, so they go to surgery unnecessarily, trying to be modern, an turning their figure to a toothpick with two large balloons, by their own will.
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Welcome to Björka Oddities A website full with various strage things, eccentricities, curiosities, peculiarities, rarities, a quality entertaining site where you can share and see many things of this world Be Amazed!!! Björka Oddities.
If you wish to CONTACT US Björka Oddities.


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Additional Long Beach nonstop announced by JetBlue
JetBlue Airways has announced additional, daily, nonstop service from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) to Long Beach Airport (LGB), starting May 23, 2013, doubling the frequency of this service.
The additional flight will depart Austin-Bergstrom at 7 a.m., arriving in Long Beach, Calif., at 8:09 a.m. The return flight will depart Long Beach at 7:59 p.m., arriving in Austin at 12:43 a.m., all times local.
This nonstop comes in addition to existing service. Flights currently depart daily at 5:25 p.m., arriving at 6:38 p.m. Return flights depart for Austin at 10:30 a.m., arriving at 3:17 p.m., all times local. Tickets are available at www.jetblue.com or by calling 1-800-JETBLUE.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport generates $2.4 billion economic impact to the Austin area annually. Austin's airport has nonstop service to 38 destinations in the U.S. and Mexico and served a record 9.1 million passengers in 2011. The airport is growing to meet the future needs of Austin with improvements ranging from terminal expansion to parking. Austin-Bergstrom is entirely self-sustaining, generating its own revenue to cover its operating costs.


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Museum Opening Times: 10:00 - 18:00 daily (Closed 25 and 26 December)
Claude Sautet
108 mins
Lino Ventura, Sandra Milo, Jean-Paul Belmondo, Marcel Dalio
b/w Digital
Rarely screened in recent years, this truly great crime movie gets a welcome re-release in British cinemas. Abel Davos plays a Parisian gangster who is hold up in Italy with the cops closing in on him. He and his pal commit a daring robbery before leaving Milan for France. But then there's the matter of where to hide out and which of his former partners in crime to trust…As sharp and suspenseful a study of loyalty, betrayal and professionalism as the very best crime thrillers.
A booking fee of £1 per transaction is charged on all online bookings.
Film courses and talks
Film courses and talks
Situated right in the heart of Bradford, UNESCO City of Film, we exist to promote an appreciation and understanding of media through nine floors of FREE galleries, an extensive collection and research facility, and three cinemas including the UK's first IMAX theatre.
All content © National Media Museum 2014


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Back in the day, Aussie brand Uncle Toby's had a penchant for getting athletes on board to spruike their sugar and fat laden "healthy treats" to parents and kids alike. In the 90s, the most memorable advertisements featured champion Olympic swimmers Kieren Perkins and Lisa Curry-Kenny, who used to tell us that eating Uncle Toby's oats was great for you, would probably make you an Olympic swimmer, and was great for the economy because they were Australian owned.
When watching the above videos, please take a second to enjoy the early 90s graphics, fashion choices and production values:
If you were a muesli bar eater, you belonged to one of two camps: crunchy or chewy. Then you had to split that allegiance among choc chip and apricot. Later on, there were also yoghurt covered, berry flavoured and other concoctions (as well as the addition of Grant Hackett representing the company), but you could always tell a fellow muesli bar afficionado by their preference. For me, incidentally, it was crunchy apricot. There was something about the contrasting flavours that nothing has quite compared to since.
Though many granola bars in the USA claim to be a similar product, those of us who enjoyed the muesli bar will know there is simply no comparison. Thankfully, companies like The Aussie Food Shop ship worldwide, so we can enjoy the odd bit of crunchy-muesli-biscuit-like-deliciousness on occasion.
Was there a muesli bar that you enjoyed as a kid or adult alike? Which one was your favourite?


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Yes Organic Water-Based Lube 25ml
Average customer review: Average customer review 9 out of 10 (19 reviews) Add your review
Made from organic aloe vera, Yes Pure Intimacy is one of the finest water-based lubes on the market. Sensuous, skin nourishing and moisturising, this erotic, cherishing lube is formulated to deliver the ultimate in sexual arousal.
Only: £5.99
Product Description
Made from organic aloe vera, Yes Pure Intimacy is one of the finest water-based lubes on the market. Sensuous, skin nourishing and moisturising, this erotic, cherishing lube is formulated to deliver the ultimate in sexual arousal.
Yes lubricants offer you the discretion of products which, unlike most other lubes, draw no attention to themselves through disturbing smell, taste or colour.
Yes believes that lubricants should facilitate your pleasure, without masking your skin and senses. Sexual arousal is intimately linked to natural pheromones, and with Yes lube, your own signals of desire are neither obscured nor confused, but - Luberated!
Yes lubricants are Vegetarian Society-approved and meet the Soil Association's organic standards.
Use within 3 months of opening.
Ingredients: Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Flax Extract, Guar, Locust Bean, Xantham Gum, Food Quality Preservatives, Citric Acid.
Essential info
- Bottle type: Squeeze
- Condom safe: Yes
- Veggie suitable: Yes
- Organic: Yes
- Contains aspartame: No
- Contains paraben: No
How it feels
- Lubricant type: Water based
- Lubricant function: Sex and sex toys
What it costs
- Volume: 25 ml
Product Videos
Buyer's Guide: Lubricants Explained
To watch videos, you need Version 9 or greater of the Flash Player. Click here to see which Flash Version you have. If you have Version 8 or less, get the latest Flash Player here".
Using lube is the easiest way to make every sexual experience you have smoother and more pleasurable. Annabelle Knight explains why lube is great for everyone and which lube to start with. Read more: Which is the Best Lube?
Lubricant Buyer's Guides
Buy the best water-based lube and learn how to get the most out of your sex life with our sex essentials guides.
Sex Essentials Guides > Which is the Best Lube?
Sex Essentials Guides > How to choose an anal lube
Sex Essentials Guides > How to choose a silicone lube
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Customer Reviews
Yes Organic Water-Based Lube 25ml 9 out of 10 (19 reviews) Write your own reviewOrder by:
- Newest
- Most helpful
- Rating
More please
Reviewed: 12 December 2014 by blondebrunette
This is my second time buying the Yes lube and my partner and I love it. Perfect coverage, making sex more pleasurable, and it doesn't get too sticky or smell like some products I've used in the past.
I'm a committed buyer now, give it a go! The 25ml size makes it a little easier for carrying around. My partner works away a lot, so it's much easier to pop in an overnight bag.
- Pros
- Size. Feel. Smell.
- Cons
- Maybe could be a little more discreet, just in case somebody opens the drawer.
- Bottom line
- Great value for money.
- Was this review helpful to you? Yes
A soothing natural lube that doesn't irritate
Reviewed: 29 March 2014 by Lotus flower
It is pricey, and comes in a very small bottle, and I don't usually need it apart from with certain toys, but a very tiny amount is all that's needed.
It feels very soothing, especially with those who like to keep smooth (shave, creams, etc) below, so, after a session using condoms, there is no irritation from the latex (or whatever the material is).
It feels very pleasant, non-greasy but works a treat, feels very natural, and is in such small packaging that's it's discreet enough to slip in your bag for weekends away.
- Pros
- It's made with natural products, feels soothing, and you only need a small amount.
- Cons
- It's pricier than some, but worth it.
- Bottom line
- My favourite lube, although have tried others.
- Was this review helpful to you? Yes
Order by:
Very sexy
Reviewed: 27 August 2010 by Ooooob, a Straight Going Steady Female
I have been reluctant to use lubes in the past because I don't like the idea of using chemicals in intimate places, but this organic brand actually nourishes both partners and my boyfriend and I have loved using it!
Even when we haven't "needed" it, it has made things much more fun. You can use it anywhere as it is not at all sticky - it almost feels like a great moisturising cream would on your skin, but it remains "wet" for long enough to enjoy it!
- Pros
- It's actually good for you! Also feels great.
- Cons
- Nothing to dislike!
- Bottom line
- Worth the extra pennies(/pounds!) - I have just placed my second order.
- Was this review helpful to you? Yes
- Newest
- Most helpful
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See all 19 Yes Organic Water-Based Lube 25ml reviews…


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555 Contra Costa
Fircrest, WA 98466
253-238-4173 fax
Roy H. Murphy Community Center Hours
Monday - Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 10:00pm
Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday Closed
Parks and Recreation Director: Jeff Grover
Recreation Coordinator: Chris Wells
Recreation Office Assistant: Jenny Huntsman
Park Supervisor, Andy Piercy 253-238-4163
Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan 2014
Section 1
Chapter 1Vision, Goals & Objectives
Chapter 2 Existing Parks, Faciliteis & Program Resources
Chapter 3 Public Involvement
Section 2
Chapter 4 Needs Assessment
Section 3
Chapter 5 Captial Facilities Plan & Implementation
Appendix A: Finance Options
The gym and rooms in the Roy H. Murphy Community Center as well as the Fircrest Pavilion and Whittier Shelter can be rented year-round.
Reservations are taken on a first come first serve basis and 100% of rental fee is due when making your reservation.
Facility Rentals Packet
" Watch Your Speed"
5K Walk/Run


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Why are power plants, lines and substations necessary? | How does electricity arrive at my home? | Overhead or underground power lines | Isn't it better to place power lines underground? | Why do transmission lines cost so much more? | Does that mean transmission lines cannot be placed under ground? | Why can't FPL pay the difference in cost? | How will FPL address our concerns related to transmission line aesthetics?
Florida Power & Light Company provides an essential service. We take our obligation to serve residents, businesses, and governmental entities throughout the state very seriously. FPL is regulated by the Florida Public Service Commission and must construct basic electric facilities in order to distribute electricity from generating plants to our customers.
Just like roads and water and sewer facilities, electrical lines and facilities are a necessary part of every community's infrastructure. Much like our highway system, FPL's massive 71,500-mile power-line grid is made up of large and small lines. If rolled out, these lines would wrap around the earth's equator not once or twice – but three times. Transmission lines are larger and operate somewhat like interstate highways and expressways. Distribution lines are smaller than transmission lines and function similar to streets and avenues that crisscross communities and neighborhoods.
While overhead distribution line construction remains the standard in Florida, it is more common today for these lines, particularly in new subdivisions, to be installed underground. In fact, FPL installs more than two-thirds of all new distribution lines underground. The difference in cost is the responsibility of the developers and homeowners.
Compared to overhead transmission lines, underground transmission lines take longer to repair and are five to fifteen times more costly to construct. More than 98 percent of FPL's transmission lines are overhead.
FPL does not oppose placing lines underground. However, it is important to note that there are both pros and cons to building lines overhead and underground. The reliability of overhead and underground lines is comparable. For example, both underground and overhead lines are subject to lightning damage. Although overhead lines may have more exposure than underground lines to wind damage or collisions, underground facilities are prone to flood damage, especially in coastal areas where exposure to salt water could cause an outage. The key difference between underground and overhead lines is that it typically takes more time with underground lines to diagnose the problem and make repairs. This difference in repair time is best characterized in days rather than hours.
Transmission lines can power entire cities. In order to transport larger amounts of power, underground transmission lines are much more technically complex and material intensive. Each underground transmission line is custom-made, making them not only more expensive to design, but install and maintain as well.
There are circumstances where FPL transmission lines can be and have been placed underground. If engineering complexities and cost differentials can be overcome, FPL is open to the idea of underground transmission.
If a community decides that it wishes a line to be placed underground, the residents must be willing to pay the extra costs involved. And, of course, as with any business transaction, the community requesting underground lines must be able to show that they have the means to pay for the construction. To put it in perspective, less than 100 miles of FPL 6,500 miles transmission lines are underground.
As a regulated utility, FPL is required to provide safe, reliable, low cost electric service to its customers. The Florida Public Service Commission authorizes the rates FPL can charge its customers and determines what costs can be included in those rates. It is the Public Service Commission's policy, and FPL agrees, that it is unfair to charge all of FPL's customers to bury a line in a particular area when a particular person or locality requested placing that line underground. Consequently, FPL may only bury lines when another entity agrees to pick up the differential cost between underground and overhead construction.
FPL has approximately 6,500 miles of transmission lines on its system. Less than 100 miles are underground.
As homeowners and residents of communities served by FPL as well, we share the desire for an aesthetically pleasing community. Electric lines, however, must go somewhere.
Typically, FPL's engineers will find routes that follow busy roadways. They will also look for opportunities to rebuild existing lines or build alongside existing lines. When constructing new lines, they may incorporate smaller distribution lines on the same poles to reduce the clutter of multiple lines in an area.
Once the route is sited, careful placement of individual poles-such as around neighborhood entrances and adjacent to property lines-may also sometimes be used to minimize the transmission line's effect on the appearance of an area. FPL crews will clean up and restore the area where improvements have been made.
Further, we are asking the community to help us by sharing their concerns and giving us an opportunity to address these as we serve you.


text:
|Young's Literal Translation (YLT)
|New International Version (NIV)
|3 if so be that, having clothed ourselves, we shall not be found naked,
|3 because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked.
|Young's Literal Translation is in the public domain. (Young's Literal Translation - The Bible Online)
|Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. (New International Version Bible Online)


text:
Excerpt from: The Diamond Sword, Chapter 11
"The whole of humanity is suffering from one disease and that disease is ambition: 'Go on fighting.' Don't even worry whether the whys and wherefores of your fight are right or wrong. Who has the time? Time is short and there is no certainty to life. So the means may be right or wrong, but you have to prove that you are something. And the interesting thing is that it is a defeat on both sides. Defeated, you are defeated. Victorious, you are badly defeated.
"Naturally everybody appears to be sick, appears to be restless. Inside everybody there are only flames – flames of envy, jealousy – and no peace, no bliss. No poetry is ever born within us, no dance ever arises within us, and then death knocks on the door, and we have got nothing to offer to death except our tears and a defeated life. The long journey of ambition has come to its final moments. Now it is no longer just a slow burning fire – lukewarm. Now it is burning with roaring flames and the whole world is feeling utterly restless. And there is only one way out: that we free man from ambition.
"Ambition only makes one run on the periphery and leads man nowhere. These paths on the periphery, that seem to be moving so fast, go nowhere. Keep walking, keep walking… and they never come to an end. Your end comes but these paths remain, just lying there. These paths don't end; you do.
"In the place of ambition, create self-longing: a desire to know yourself, to recognize yourself, to dive within yourself. This alone is the remedy. And the disease is only one – although its names may be many, its forms may be many. The remedy, too, is only one. All education is futile, all preaching is futile if you are not taught the art of diving within yourself – because that is where the stream of life's juices flows. You are wandering around on the periphery like a beggar and within you is hidden the potential to be an emperor. In this world only those rare people who have looked within themselves have become healthy. All the rest are unhealthy, sick and insane.
"I give value to only one thing – call it religion, philosophy, philosophy of life, or whatever name you want to give it – and that is knowing oneself. And that knowing of oneself is not through books, is not through someone else. That knowing of oneself is through oneself. If you cannot go within yourself, where else will you go? If you cannot dive within yourself for a while, what other oceans do you seek to fathom, and where?
"If we want mankind to become healthy; if we want the terrorism that is increasing everywhere and becoming more and more explosive and violent to end; if we want the flames of fire to turn into flowers, then there is only one way. That way is called Samadhi, enlightenment.
"Become natural, become ordinary; live in equanimity, and do not remain unacquainted with the secret that is hidden within you. The moment you become acquainted with it, a great revolution will take place, the revolution which turns dirt into gold, which turns an ordinary man into a Buddha, which picks you up from the ground and takes you to the heights of the stars in the sky.
"I have moved around the world saying only this one thing, and have been amazed and astonished that people are not ready to hear it. People close their doors, countries close their doors, because what will happen then to their religions, to their religious scriptures?
"I know only one scripture. That is you." Osho
In this title, Osho talks on the following topics:
meditation... poverty... path... need... religion... science... religious... lazarus... hillary... charvaka...
meditation... poverty... path... need... religion... science... religious... lazarus... hillary... charvaka...


text:
Wolf Match Target Ammunition 22 Long Rifle 40 Grain Lead Round Nose Box of 500 (10 Boxes of 50)
Product #: 666826 Wolf Ammunition #: 22MTB (500) UPC #: 645611222214
You must be 21 years or older to order ammunition. Ammo must ship UPS ground. Due to Department of Transportation regulations, we cannot accept returns on ammo. Please check local laws before ordering.
Product Information
Wolf Match Target Ammunition has developed an outstanding reputation as one of the most economical and accurate loads available. Featuring a 40 grain lead round nose bullet and the world renowned Vihtavuori powder, this ammunition is sure to meet your target shooting needs.
Technical Information
Caliber: 22 Long Rifle
Bullet Weight: 40 Grains
Bullet Style: Lead Round Nose
Ballistics Information:
Muzzle Velocity: 1050 fps
Velocity Rating: Subsonic
Technical Information
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Product ships from MidwayUSA, separate from any other products on your order due to its size. Products that are Shipped Alone incur separate "Per Order" and "Per Pound" shipping charges.
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Product is restricted by shipping carriers and cannot be shipped to certain locations or via certain shipping methods.
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Additional shipping charge for HazMat products. Carriers charge extra to ship packages with products they consider hazardous, such as reloading powder and primers.
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Jay Reddy
At a Glance
"I think doctors are motivated to improve if they see objective data that they are not performing as well as their peers. It is not necessarily a financial incentive, but a patient care incentive that will motivate them."
-Jack Lewin, CEO, American College of Cardiology (as quoted by Goldman, E., "Pay-for-Performance Advocates Acknowledge Flaws: If Not Designed Carefully, Plans Can Warp Physician Behavior and Fail to Improve Health Care Quality," Internal Medicine News, Sept. 1, 2007)
-Jack Lewin, CEO, American College of Cardiology (as quoted by Goldman, E., "Pay-for-Performance Advocates Acknowledge Flaws: If Not Designed Carefully, Plans Can Warp Physician Behavior and Fail to Improve Health Care Quality," Internal Medicine News, Sept. 1, 2007)
Hospitals face unprecedented challenges today in preparing for healthcare reform and regulatory requirements, an ever-increasing population of uninsured, fast-rising supply and device costs, and even more rapidly shrinking reimbursements. These challenges exert pressure on hospital leaders to drive profitability and maintain high-quality care. And they force hospital leaders to rethink their approach to rescue and protect margins. Hospital executives now find that incremental performance improvement no longer works. What they want is an innovative business model that will do more than just help them weather the storm. They want to put an absolute end to shrinking margins and position their institution for sustainability and profitability.
Hospitals now have a tremendous new opportunity with the prospect of developing accountable care organizations (ACOs), as outlined in the Affordable Care Act. The goal of this aspect of the legislation is to integrate hospitals and physicians by holding them jointly responsible for quality and cost of care. The ACO model simply encompasses a patient care continuum that includes the hospital, primary care physicians, specialists, and potentially other medical professionals. Innovative hospitals are taking the lead to develop coordinated care systems that embody the core principles underlying ACOs. They have come to view physicians as partners and collaborators in this enterprise.
The biggest challenge for hospital leaders in today's post-reform era is aligning clinical and financial goals without undermining quality of care. Many healthcare providers believe that quality of care and cost of care are conflicting ends of a spectrum-success with one is at the expense of the other. This attitude mirrors that of the U.S. auto industry in the 1970s and 1980s, until Japanese competitors proved them wrong. The lesson came at a high price: The U.S. lost dominance in the global automotive market.
Yet achieving ACO status and a high level of overall performance depends on absolute clinical-financial alignment, which begins with successful physician integration across the care continuum. Because physician decisions and actions impact 70 to 80 percent of the hospital cost structure, leaders need to address the question, "Do we really understand how to engage physicians to align their interests with ours?"
To begin to answer this question, hospital executives should first identify problems, prioritize them, and analyze root causes to make changes that will yield the greatest impact.
If physicians resist clinical process change, it is often because of how the case for that change is presented to them. The usual approach to communicate with them is project-based and anecdotal. For example, hospital executives may cite the fact that a physician is using a high-cost hip implant associated with an average length of stay of five days but the hospital still has a higher-than-average 30-day readmission rate. The physician is unlikely to accept such anecdotal data and will probably respond with a common rebuttal: "These patients were sick and had a high risk of mortality." The physician may also question the statistical significance of the sample.
Instead, the hospital administrators should have presented the physician with a statistically significant sample (including confidence intervals) of a specific patient case mix with no complications and low risk of mortality, which resulted in a high cost of care and low quality of care. The physician would likely be much more receptive to this approach, especially if he or she is also presented with other physician data reflecting a comparable patient mix but with a lower cost and higher quality.
In short, because of their training, physicians typically are much more likely to be persuaded by research and facts. When faced with a holistic view, backed with data, they are much more likely to respond enthusiastically. Innovative hospital systems, therefore, know that the best way to gain physician buy-in for change is by showing how clinical processes affect financial performance.
Knowing what's required, do hospitals have "actionable insight" for productive communication with physicians? Traditional decision support systems offer only department-centric information, creating silos and many versions of truth. Without patient-, process-, and outcome-centric intelligence, hospitals lack transparency and predictability around cost of care and quality of care by physician, diagnosis-related group (DRG), facility, and other dimensions.
Consider these four questions:
A "no" to even one of these questions indicates a need for greater preparation before you pursue an integrated or ACO business model. Any effort lacking a system perspective will be viewed as just another "consulting program of the day" and will not have a lasting impact. A hospital can build trust with ACO stakeholders only by clearly showing the quality and cost of care by episode, facility, physician, DRG, and other dimensions.
Where do physicians exist in the care continuum in terms of quality and cost? Strategic physician integration should be founded on a clear understanding of physician performance levels along the care continuum if it is to succeed. The physician value index is a dynamic and comprehensive set of metrics that can help hospital leaders achieve this understanding.
This metric set illustrates physician performance in the context of overall patient satisfaction and hospital financial performance. With this frame of reference, hospital leaders can begin to measure how specific actions by physicians within and across DRGs can directly impact overall system financial performance and quality of care. By using cost and quality as the basis for the analysis, it becomes clear which changes will improve cost without sacrificing quality, or improve quality without adding cost.
Exhibit 1
The physician value index is predicated on a comprehensive, systemwide analysis of quality-of-care metrics. Every quality measure from each system (e.g., clinical, operational, and ancillary) is collected and classified by impact on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to considerations such as safety, outcomes, and process. The KPIs are assessed systematically to determine the impact on physicians. All measures are then rolled up to provide an aggregate score of quality of care by physician by DRG, as is shown in the exhibit below. Then, to develop a physician value index, healthcare leaders map the quality-of-care scores for physicians and DRGs against cost of care.
Visually, the physician value index is a matrix in which top-performing individuals appear in the upper right quadrant, and low-performing individuals appear in the lower left quadrant. The X axis represents performance along quality of care. The Y axis shows performance in terms of cost of care. Each physician would appear on the matrix according to his or her cost-quality rating. Hospitals can use the physician value index to establish and leverage the practices of best-in-class physicians and identify improvement opportunities. Physicians may appear by name, or they may be kept anonymous using a numerical identifier, which can contribute to a more clear understanding of the matrix.
Category I: High quality, low cost of care. This physician group is the "dream club" for any health system. These physicians rate high in patient satisfaction and on the core outcome measures advocated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). They drive high reimbursements under the new performance-based payment system. Using decision support technologies to analyze their practice patterns and clinical processes-resource utilization, procedures, physician preferred items-hospitals can design order sets by case mix based on various factors, such as demographics, complication level, and severity index. For example, the "dream club" physicians may administer an aspirin to a heart attack patient within six minutes after entering the emergency department, whereas other physicians might take a much longer time on average. This information can then be used to enhance the feed of order sets to staff and physicians. The physicians in this group can be appropriately viewed as thought leaders, and their success can be leveraged to stimulate change management.
Category II: High quality, high cost of care. This group is often the most challenging when hospitals want to encourage changes in practice patterns. These physicians deliver high-quality care and high patient satisfaction, and they are convinced that change will lower quality of care. Transparency and decision support models are likely to help convert these skeptics. These physicians are likely to cite every reason why their patient mix is different and deserves a special treatment approach, but they can be persuaded to modify their practices if the hospital can effectively demonstrate how their quality and cost of care compares with the performance of category I physicians for similar case mixes. Simply put, the physician value index can be used as a starting point to communicate and persuade these physicians to modify practices to reduce cost without undermining quality of care.
For example, one hospital used data-driven decision support models to persuade its category II physicians to reduce average length of stay from seven days to six simply by showing these physicians the quality and cost scores of category I physicians with a similar patient mix. The hospital was able to perform a variety of "what-if?" scenarios to show the impact of change on both quality and cost. Category II physicians can have a significant impact on hospital financial performance, but only when they have a reason to believe that change will not sacrifice quality or patient satisfaction.
Category III: Low cost, low quality of care. A physician in category III is usually a "quick study"-he or she simply needs access to quality data. Often, physicians in this group claim that quality metrics are not a comprehensive view of patient care. They may present a few legitimate arguments, but ultimately, factors such as patient satisfaction scores and the core measures advocated by CMS will be most influential on these physicians and will produce the greatest impact on hospital and physician financial results.
As consumers begin to demand performance transparency at the physician and hospital level, quality and cost performance will become more critical. Hospitals need to persuade category III physicians to align their individual interests with the organization's common performance goals. These physicians are prime candidates for implementing standardized order sets, for example. By showing how order sets have been developed based on the best practices of category I physicians for similar demographic and severity-of-illness patient mix, a hospital can give category III physicians a strong rationale for adapting their own approach. Predictive modeling with DRGs can be a powerful tool to build a convincing case for change with these physicians.
From a change management perspective, both category II and category III physicians will benefit from reviewing their progress on an ongoing basis, once they have made the commitment to change.
Category IV: High cost, low quality of care. This physician group is clearly detrimental to hospital performance, from both a cost and quality perspective. It is to be hoped that this group will constitute a small percentage of the hospital's physicians.
Hospital choices are clear for this category: First, make these physicians aware of their performance and the impact they have on overall hospital performance. They require clear direction on order sets and best practices, and need frequent feedback with performance scores. Some hospitals may require an accelerated performance plan, while other hospitals might choose to terminate the relationship. In either case, quickly moving physicians out of this category will improve overall hospital performance.
From a recruiting perspective, it becomes helpful to explore and compare physician credentials across every category. Attracting physicians with credentials consistent with category I, and avoiding those whose credentials imply category IV could help to improve a hospital's future overall physician mix.
Exhibit 2
Exhibit 3
To ensure the ongoing success of an ACO model, physicians should have ongoing access to intelligence that allows them to compare their own performance, efficacy of diagnosis, and treatment with those of peers-i.e., to evaluate their own performance within the context of evidence-based care. The physician value index is an effective tool to promote such physician self-evaluation.
Despite the valuable insight the index can provide, however, it is inadequate without fuel to drive change. "What-if?" scenarios, or data-driven decision support models, can arm hospitals with the proof physicians need to embrace change. In the past, hospitals relied on financial or quality analysts to collect, normalize, and analyze cost and quality data. Manual processes with immense spreadsheets took weeks and sometimes months to examine. Piecing together a limited number of scenarios was at best cumbersome and often impossible. Today, however, leading hospitals look to data-driven decision support systems to quickly build, compare, and test scenarios.
For example, a hospital may select one order set from among category I physicians and simulate the impact to cost and quality if that order set were standardized across all physician groups. With a cost-quality modeling system in place, an analyst can achieve actionable insight with just a few clicks. The result is a clear understanding of how changes can affect quality and cost by physician, facility, and department.
The same data and "what-if?" scenarios can also help quantify the impact of substituting drugs, devices, implants, or any other element that contributes to cost and quality. A hospital could even, to its advantage, compare cost-quality scenarios to evaluate the benefit of outsourcing different departments. The hospital could blend scenario and predictive analysis to answer questions such as, "What would the 30-day readmission rate be if we were to standardize a given order set from category I physicians?" Regardless of which scenarios executives might choose to explore, data-driven decision support models, such as the physician value index, can improve a hospital's ability to refine cost and quality factors to maximize profitability.
Data-driven decision support models are not limited to building "what-if?" scenarios. Soon, Medicare and private payments will be tied directly to quality performance. Hospitals need a way to predict performance in the immediate future so that they can act today to avoid losing future income. Again, looking to cost and quality data, hospital analysts and executives can apply "what-if?" scenarios to predict future performance. For instance, a hospital can ask questions such as, "What kind of patient readmission rates can I expect in 2011 for hip and knee replacement procedures for each case mix? And what's the overall financial impact to the institution if we standardize certain order sets?" Using the physician value index as a tool to create such scenarios is one way in which hospitals can engage in predictive analysis to help ensure financial success.
Ultimately, the physician value index is a tool for achieving greater physician integration, because it offers a means for hospitals to identify potential physician leaders to help spearhead integration efforts. But in addition to applying the index to this end, hospital finance leaders can promote many additional steps to ensure their organizations' success with physician integration. For example, the leaders should:
To create a physician value index manually would likely overburden existing hospital system resources, or system financial resources. Hospitals can build a decision support capability or buy off-the-shelf products. Hospital systems that lack deep pockets to invest in IT or do not have large internal information system resources available to manage these applications can successfully leverage a software-as-a-service (SaaS) subscription service that requires no up-front investment for hardware, software, or analyst/clinician resources. The SaaS model removes all IT change management requirements, and most are reasonably priced at $5,000 to $10,000 per month, depending on the size of the system or facility.
Sustainable efficiencies will enable today's hospital to realize long-term business objectives. A new business model that includes physician integration will pave the way for profitability today and beyond 2012, when healthcare reform delivers a wave of significant changes. The physician value index can be a valuable tool for managing the transition to this new reality.
Jay Reddy is founder and CEO, PSCI Solutions, Frisco, Texas, and a member of HFMA's Lone Star Chapter (firstname.lastname@example.com).
Creating the Physician Value Index
Creating a physician value index requires two broad steps: building a quality of care (QOC) composite score and gathering cost of care (COC) data.
Build a QOC composite score:
Gather COC data:
Publication Date: Tuesday, February 01, 2011
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