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MSC Romantic Cruise Reviews
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MSC Cruises x
Romantic Cruises x
MSC Cruises
55% Loved It
Cruise Critic Overview
- MSC Preziosa, MSC's biggest, splashiest ever, debuted in 2013
- MSC Divina sails year-round from Miami
- Features the ship-within-a-ship Yacht Club concept
- Read full overview >>
Cruiser rating
See reviews for
Family Cruises
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Senior Cruises
Romantic Cruises
Rating Summary
This was our second cruise after a great introduction to cruising in 2009 with Royal Caribbean in the Eastern Med. This ... Read more
Well, after reading many damning reviews about MSC Fantasia, my husband & I approached this cruise with a little ... Read more
My husband and I enjoy cruises. We went on our first for our honeymoon and now we try to do one every year. This was ... Read more
We have just returned from our honeymoon aboard MSC Magnifica, We boarded in Bari Italy. it was the first cruise where ... Read more
MSC Poesia Review (Jan 30 - Feb 6) Our first MSC Cruise, very good overall. The ship itself was nice and ... Read more
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My wife wanted to go to Rio de Janeiro for our anniversary. I always wanted to go to Buenos Aires. Only one cruiseline ... Read more
We booked an 11 day cruise with the MSC Splendida due to the itinary and price. Having cruised several US based cruise ... Read more
We booked 2 week back to back cruise. The first 7 days were just OK (see details below)but the second week turned out ... Read more
I have been on many cruises and most lines, but I thought it would be interesting to try an Italian cruise company. MSC ... Read more
Please read all of the reviews about MSC Orchestra very carefully because for the most part they are true as far as: ... Read more
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Personal Background: 3rd honeymoon celebrating 20 years (ages 46 + 48-no kids) Travel to Port of Embarkation: Started ... Read more
Hello all: My girlfriend and I did our 1st ever cruise on the MSC Orchestra from Sept 8-15. Boarded from Genoa and ... Read more
We just came back from our E. Med cruise MSC Musica, Sept 12 - 19, embarkation from Venice. Before this we had cruised ... Read more
We literally just got back a couple days ago from a 7 day Eastern Med cruise on the Magnifica. The long and short of ... Read more
If you're looking for a standard American cruise, this probably isn't the venue for you. However, if your style is more ... Read more
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My husband and I chose this cruise because it's the only cruiseline that goes to Bermuda from Florida. We were aware of ... Read more
my fiance and i have been on several cruises and last year we strayed from our norm and booked a cruise with MSC. their ... Read more
We were on the Poesia for the Christmas cruise and we had a blast. Let me start by saying that this was an absolutely ... Read more
This was our honeymoon and picked for the destinations, what appeared to be quality for money, Italian owned ship MSC ... Read more
I will go over all the good and bad points about the cruise, which I think are important considerations when selecting ... Read more
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Really would have liked to write a positive review of this ship so I will start with the good stuff. We were ... Read more
As I stated we had gone on a two week tour of Italy in 2008 and had a fantastic time. When I learned of MSC being an ... Read more
OK... first of all I booked this cruise because of the price, I got a great deal. it was like 1k for 2 of us for 7 ... Read more
Having sailed on the MSC Poesia out of Venice in October 2008, we were so impressed by the ship and her crew that only ... Read more
First let me say that the cabins are well appointed with storage galore! 12 drawers (6 in nightstands and 6 in desk), ... Read more
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As summer vacation comes to a close this year, parents are more concerned than ever about saving money and spending wisely.
But as families are pinching pennies, local organizations are lending a hand and opening their doors and wallets to help Sumter's students get everything they need for back-to-school.
Read on for some of the events that are taking place around the county, as well as where to drop off donations. Keep checking the Times in the coming weeks for any additional community back-to-school events.
To view images from the jail expansion, see the slide show below....
With a nod of approval from the Wildwood City Council, a new growers' market will be launched in the city in October.
The market is a partnership concept between the city and UF/IFAS Sumter County Extension.
On Saturdays, the grounds of Wildwood City Hall will become the hub for locally produced foods and crafts, according to Susan Kelly, county extension director. For more information, see this week's edition of the Sumter County Times.
The County Commission is set to have its final budget hearings and adopt the new property tax rate next month.
The first of two budget hearings is set for Sept. 14 at the Sumter County Government Offices building in Room 142 at 6 p.m. The second and final hearing, when commissioners are expected to vote, is set for 6 p.m. on Sept. 28 in The Villages at Colony Cottage Regional Recreation Center in the Parlor Room.
At a meeting last month in The Villages, commissioners voted to set the tentative property tax rate at 6.01 mills, slightly lower than the rollback rate.
A home in The Villages was destroyed by fire Friday, Aug. 21 after it was apparently stuck by lightning during a severe storm. Another home in Wildwood was damaged by a lightning strike around the same time.
The owners of the Villages home, John and Teresa Leaptrott, were out of town at the time of the fire, but a neighbor who was standing on his porch facing the house said he saw lightning strike late that afternoon and then started to smell and see smoke coming from the back.
As August draws to a close, the Sumter County School District is preparing to welcome students back to classes.
This year, the school district is expecting 5,292 students to attend public schools throughout the county, according to district curriculum specialist Colleen Strickland. It's a decrease of slightly more than 100 students from the year before.
Softball Tournament Slated
Annual Children's Miracle Network
tournament set
Last week, hundreds of brand new soccer balls were delivered to Wildwood, ready for Sumter County Youth Soccer Club team members to claim them.
Behind the giveaway were Wildwood Tire Company and Uniroyal Tire's Uniroyal Soccer Program, an organization within Uniroyal Tire that provides funds and equipment for youth soccer programs in the U.S. and Canada.
With 22 teams and about 260 members across the county, the SCYSC was more than happy to accept the offer.
PETA requests
humane treatment
The least that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) should do for the Burmese pythons it insists on killing in the Everglades is ensure that the snakes are killed in the most humane manner possible. But despite PETA's requests, the FWC refuses to require snake hunters to use an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)-approved method of euthanasia.
Tuesday, Aug. 4
Donald C. Betsch, 35, Bushnell, was arrested for driving while license suspended. Bond was set at $500.
Ashley Ann Rogers, 23, Webster, was arrested for violation of probation. No bond was set.
Shawn D. Shelby, 21, Webster, was arrested for possession of marijuana and possession of paraphernalia. Bond was set at $1,000.
Wednesday, Aug. 5
Artricie Devane McCord, 18, Center Hill, was arrested for no valid driver's license. Bond was set at $500.
Copyright © 2015
The Sumter County Times is your source for local news, sports, events and information in Sumter County, Bushnell, Fl, and the surrounding area.

subset: commoncrawl


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Photo Credit: Hita Bambhania-Modha
This video and the following timeline provide a retrospective from 2004 to 2014 on the evolution of Brain-inspired Computing.
Illustration Credit: William Risk
Title: "Real-time Scalable Cortical Computing at 46 Giga-Synaptic OPS/Watt with 100× Speedup in Time-to-Solution and 100,000× Reduction in Energy-to-Solution".
Authors: Andrew S. Cassidy, Rodrigo Alvarez-Icaza, Filipp Akopyan, Jun Sawada, John V. Arthur, Paul A. Merolla, Pallab Datta, Marc Gonzalez Tallada, Brian Taba, Alexander Andreopoulos, Arnon Amir, Steven K. Esser, Jeff Kusnitz, Rathinakumar Appuswamy, Chuck Haymes, Bernard Brezzo, Roger Moussalli, Ralph Bellofatto, Christian Baks, Michael Mastro, Kai Schleupen, Charles E. Cox, Ken Inoue, Steve Millman, Nabil Imam, Emmett McQuinn, Yutaka T. Nakamura, Ivan Vo, Chen Guo, Don Nguyen, Scott Lekuch, Sameh Assad, Daniel Friedman, Bryan L. Jackson, Myron D. Flickner, William P. Risk, Rajit Manohar, Dharmendra S. Modha
Abstract: Drawing on neuroscience, we have developed a parallel, event-driven kernel for neurosynaptic computation, that is efficient with respect to computation, memory, and communication. Building on the previously demonstrated highly-optimized software expression of the kernel, here, we demonstrate TrueNorth, a co-designed silicon expression of the kernel. TrueNorth achieves five orders of magnitude reduction in energy-to- solution and two orders of magnitude speedup in time-to-solution, when running computer vision applications and complex recurrent neural network simulations. Breaking path with the von Neumann architecture, TrueNorth is a 4,096 core, 1 million neuron, and 256 million synapse brain-inspired neurosynaptic processor, that consumes 65mW of power running at real-time and delivers performance of 46 Giga-Synaptic OPS/Watt. We demonstrate seamless tiling of TrueNorth chips into arrays, forming a foundation for cortex-like scalability. Unprecedented time-to-solution, energy-to-solution, scale, and performance of TrueNorth, combined with underlying flexibility of the kernel enables a broad range of cognitive applications.
The long-term aspiration is to build a "1%-human-scale" system with 4,096 processors one trillion synapses and that consumes merely 4kW.
Illustration Credit: William Risk
Today, 8.5 years later, I chaired IBM's Cognitive Systems Colloquium with the goal of Taking Brain-Inspired Computing to Market. The Colloquium gathered over 200 eminent, innovative thinkers from academia, government, industry, research and the media.
Here are speakers and panelists:
The Colloquium also included a SyNAPSE Deep Dive that covered: TrueNorth Architecture, TrueNorth Neuron Model, TrueNorth Chip with 1 million neurons and 256 million synapses, Single Chip Board, 16 chip Board, Future Scaling Path, TrueNorth "program", Compass Simulator, Corelet Programming Language, SyNAPSE University, and Demos.
Videos from the event will be available in the near future. Here is a summary.]]>
Six years ago, IBM and our university partners embarked on a quest–to build a brain–inspired machine–that at the time appeared impossible. Today, in an article published in Science, we deliver on the DARPA SyNAPSE metric of a one million neuron brain–inspired processor. The chip consumes merely 70 milliwatts and is capable of 46 billion synaptic operations per second per watt–literally a synaptic supercomputer in your palm. Here are links to IBM Press Release, DARPA Press Release, and Steve Hamm's blog.
Along the way–progressing through Phase 0, Phase 1, Phase 2, and Phase 3–we have journeyed from neuroscience to supercomputing, to a new computer architecture, to a new programming language, to algorithms, applications, and now to a new chip—TrueNorth.
Vertically–Integrated SyNAPSE Ecosystem
(A Clickable Map of Papers)


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Doctor insights on:
Difference Between Problem Drinker And An Alcoholic
What is the difference between alcoholic and congestive cardiomyopathy?
Cardiomyopathy: Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is often assigned to patients who have a dilated cardiomyopathy, no evidence of coronary artery disease on evaluation and a history of alcohol abuse. Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is oneof the causes of cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy can also be idiopathic - or for an unknown reason. ...Read moreGet help now ›
Is there a difference between alcoholic cardiomyopathy and congestive cardiomyopathy?
See below: Alcohol cardiomyopathy is a type of cardiomyopathy. Other causes can include viral, from heart disease, from hypertension or congenital cardiomyopathy. Alcohol can have a direct toxic effect on the heart muscle itself causing it to enlarge become weak and cause congestion. These other causes may have similar symptoms as well. ...Read moreGet help now ›
What is the difference between non-alcoholic atty liver disease and liver cirhosis?
12: Liver cirrhosis is the final result of all forms of liver injury which are commonly alcohol, hepatitis c, b, certain drugs etc. Non-alcoholic liver disease is another form of liver injury which is a result of excessive fat deposition in liver cells and can result in liver cirrhosis in later stages. In earlier stages it will be causing liver inflammation also known as steatohepatitis. ...Read moreGet help now ›
What is the difference between viral and alcoholic hepatitis?
Answer is in quest.: Hepatitis means inflammation of liver. This can be caused by viruses, chemicals such as alcohol, too much fat, etc.. ...Read moreGet help now ›
Difference between alcoholic and high functioning alcoholicc?
Alcoholism: Nothing. They both have the disease of addiction. Their disease will eventually lead to their death if they do not get the help that is widely available for alcoholics. I would recommend reading the first five chapters of the book: "alcoholics anonymous" to learn how an alcoholic can be alleviated from their obsession to drink. ...Read moreGet help now ›
Will i become an alcoholic if i drink every week? I feel like there's no way out, how do I fix this problem?
Weekly pattern: Binge drinking on a weekly basis can develop into alcoholism. Especially if the person shows the inability to stop, blacks out, etc. Try this. Do not make plans for the weekend. Don't go with anyone or do anything socially. Remove all the liquor from your house (put it in the garage or storage if that helps). Then go about your business for the weekend. See how you manage your time. ...Read moreGet help now ›
What are the differences between alcoholic cardiomyopathy and congestive cardiomyopathy?
Same: An alcoholic cardiomyopathy is a specific type of cardiomyopathy that can cause heart failure. ...Read moreGet help now ›
What are the differences between viral hepatitis and alcoholic hepatitis?
Infection vs toxin: Viral hepatitis occurs after the virus gets into the liver where it injures the tissue while reproducing the virus.The areas involved cannot keep us with the regular liver work and symptoms continue until healing. Alcohol can be processed without liver injury up to a point. After that threshold is exceded it becomes toxic & the liver cells begin to die off & scar ...Read moreGet help now ›
Is there a problem if I have alcoholic drinks when after 5 weeks of deliverying a baby. ?
Yes, yes, and yes: Yes, there is a problem if an alcoholic drinks. Yes, there is a problem if an alcoholic drinks just 5 weeks after having a baby. Yes, there is a problem if an alcoholic drinks and happens to be a parent of a child. The moral of this story is: get everyone together and help stop the drinking. ...Read moreGet help now ›
My husband knows he is an alcoholic but with all the problems in our lives he thinks its understandable- how can I help him see otherwise?
You may not be able: You may have to figure out how much more you can tolerate of his behavior, if he is not willing to seek help you may need to set some consequences for his continued actions. Alcoholics will drink if the sun comes up, until they admit that they just cannot not drink, everything is a reason to continue. Harsh but true for severe problem drinkers. Talk to a professional or counselor, try alanon. ...Read moreGet help now ›
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City Council postpones action on Adler's plan to add staff
Thursday night, the Austin City Council voted to delay action on Mayor Steve Adler's plan to hire extra staff for his office.
Thursday night, the Austin City Council voted to delay action on Mayor Steve Adler's plan to hire extra staff for his office.
The alleged shooter has been found dead in a car from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Law enforcement officers in Texas are being recruited to join the Department of Public Safety for duty mainly along the border with Mexico.
Organizers say they are doing this to show support to Rodney Reed and his family.
Congressman Roger Williams on Friday filed the Chris Kyle Medal of Honor Act.
Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and Sen. Rand Paul will be among those scheduled to speak.
Congress is moving to pass a three-week stopgap funding bill to prevent a Department of Homeland Security shutdown for now, but lawmakers re…
One of Emwazi's former teachers described him as a "diligent, hardworking, lovely young man" who was responsible, polite and quiet.
Even though Austin keeps adding new hotels, renting out homes and apartments is still popular amongst SXSW-goers.
AUSTIN (KXAN)- Need help planning your weekend? Our partners at Free Fun in Austin have these suggestions. 1. People's Gallery Opening Re…


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Sorrento at sunrise
Canon EOS 7D
Canon EF-S 10-22mm lens at 11mm
ISO-100, f/9.5, 3 shots combined
Tripod mounted
3 shots combined in Photomatix and finished is CS5
Excellent photo
Excellent edit in PhotoMtix
Thanks John for your comments.
– collpics
That's Georgia
– collpics
Stunning capture and colours.
Cheers Jude x
Thanks Rocksygal52
– collpics
Thanks for the feature Kathy
– collpics
What a wonderful image, love the colours
Thanks for your comment Pauline.
– collpics
Thanks Earthgipsy for your comment
– collpics
very striking…
Thanks Maria it was a perfect sunrise.
– collpics
Thanks for the feature Ian
– collpics


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Domaine de la Vitrolle
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TripAdvisor Reviews Domaine de la Vitrolle Limeuil
Travel Blogs from Limeuil
The North Wind Doth Blow - and We Shall Have Snow.
... traffic was light but there were quite a lot of lorries.
The section of road to Millau 'only' climbs to almost 900m but this is high enough in these conditions.
We opted to pay the 11.40e to go over the Millau Viaduct, rather than take the steep windy road down into the valley and back up. It is always thrilling to cross the bridge. ...
Bonjour France
... town hugging the side of cliffs.
Not a lot to do there in winter when everything is shut. Just a stroll around and a play on the playground.
Around the Dordogne province we drove through many quaint, quiet, little villages hugging the river.
The visit to La Roque Saint Christopher was fun - again we were the only ones there.
The kids enjoyed imagining life, in this old city in the ...
Sarlat la Caneda
... to find.
I had a couple of running races with my dad. They were fun.
We found the skatepark and it was a pretty bad one.
We were just playing around and then 2 French girls came up and said can we play.
We said yes and we played for a bit, then my mum and dad invited their parents over for a drink or two.
The next day we drove to a quiet town called La Roque and we bumped into people from the sunshine cost ...
Sarlat la Caneda
... We were there for about 2 hours.
We played spot light in the dark and then we went inside because it was really cold.
We had pasta for dinner and watched Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2.
Mum and dad ate snails. It was fun.
The next day we went to a town inside a mountain. It was so cool.
There was a catapult. It was ...
... before relinquishing ownership in the 20th century. The finished chateau is very impressive - it is absolutely huge and has amazing views over the surrounding countryside. It also has a chapel with floors on two levels - the first one for the Lords is on street level, and the other level for the villagers is below the ground, down a very steep staircase. Apparently the Lords though they should be closer to God than the villagers ...


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Timing Gear Wall Clock
Giovanni Scrolling Wall Clock Pewter
Florish Wall Clock Aged Bronze
4 Stars Unique
Sunny California from CA wrote (October 22, 2013):
Overall I am please with this purchase. The colors could have been more vibrant. The saw tooth hangers on the back of each block wasn't centered which was a problem.


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The only constant in life……….change.
With the diverse missions of the University of Missouri System and its campuses and operations, there is no question our ability to serve is increasingly financially strained under increasing demands for service from more students, limited state appropriation growth, tuition increase limits, and a challenging environment for competitive research funding. These are the realities we face as we work to serve the state of Missouri and the students who come to our campuses to learn and grow their abilities to be productive citizens of the state and nation. Thus, as the university continues to look for ways to not just survive but thrive in an era of a challenging funding climate, we must continue to examine ways to improve our operations and services. For the UM System Office of Finance, we must find ways to improve our operations and effectiveness of our services to the campuses we serve.
We announced earlier this year one such effort to attain enhanced internal audit coverage for our growing enterprise. We are doing this by "insourcing" our internal audit function after more than a decade of outsourcing this function to PwC. PwC has been a reliable and trusted audit partner for the UM System since 1999. We are grateful for their work and expertise over the years in what, at times, can be a challenging function for any organization. However, after careful analysis and discussions with the President and Board of Curators, we made the decision to move to a System Office of Internal Audit, effective November 1, 2015. To build a new division from the "ground up", it is imperative we move quickly and thoughtfully to hire a Chief Audit Executive that will lead and oversee this new division. The search for this position is underway and we hope to have this person selected by April or May. This new Chief Auditor will then work to assemble a team of qualified audit personnel to create this system division. This new function will not cost the system or campuses any additional funding beyond what we were already spending on internal audit but is expected to result in greatly enhanced audit coverage and processes consulting across the four campuses, health system, and UM system.
Life coach and self-help guru Tony Robbins has been quoted as saying, "Change is inevitable. Progress is optional". I would encourage all members of our teams to continue, as so many of you have, to work on making positive progress in the face of inevitable change. Change comes in many forms in terms of work locations or space, daily or weekly assignments, reporting structures, the "dreaded" administrative system upgrades and changes, and so many others. I continue to appreciate what each of you do across the UM System and I encourage all of you to bring forth your positive energy, ideas, and dedication to the University of Missouri as we meet the challenges we face together.]]>
University of Missouri employees who provided consent to receive their W-2 in electronic format by Dec. 31, 2014, received an email notification on January 13, 2015, that their 2014 W-2 is available to view and/or print in myHR, Employee Self-Service. Prior year W-2's and W-2c's, from tax year 2009 through present, are also available in myHR and can be accessed and re-printed when duplicate copies are needed. A list of tax years available can be accessed by clicking the "View a Different Tax year" link.
The university mailed 2014 W-2 forms to employees who did not provide e-consent before the 12/31/2014 deadline, before Feb. 2, 2015. Access to view the 2014 W-2 Forms in myHR, will be enabled on March 1, 2015, for all employees who did not receive their printed form in the mail or who need a duplicate copy.
When you receive your W-2 for calendar year 2014, please check your social security number and spelling of your name to your social security card for accuracy. If different, contact your campus Payroll Office for a W-2 correction.
You may log on to myHR to verify or change your address information in Personal Information Summary.]]>
The eEVR process is off and running. The initial run of eEVRs occurred on Nov. 11, 2014. The process produced 90 eEVRs for those individuals who have to certify their effort on a monthly basis. By the end of the day on Nov. 11, 41 eEVRs (46%) were approved. The Columbia Sponsored Programs Office was able to follow up on each unapproved EVR more efficiently and had all the eEVR approvals before the November eEVRs were produced.
The second run of eEVRs was even more successful. The second production of 91 eEVRs was done on Dec. 9, 2014 for the month of November. At the end of the day on the 9th, 60% (54) of the eEVRs were approved. All eEVRs were approved by the deadline of December 23, 2014.
Individuals that approve eEVRs on a semiannual basis will receive theirs approximately the second week of February. We anticipate about 6,000 eEVRs to be sent out across the campuses. eEVRs will need to be completed within 14 days of when they are produced.
If you have any questions, please consult your campus Sponsored Programs office.]]>
Does your department have furniture and/or equipment that is no longer needed? Maybe you have a piece of artwork that no longer fits your décor? Are you looking for a specific item or found something at an online auction site? If so, give Surplus Property a call, for we can help.
Per policy BPM-308, Surplus Property is responsible for the disposal, re-distribution, and/or sale of used equipment/property that the University of Missouri and other mid-Missouri government agencies and educational institutions no longer use. The sale of this equipment is handled through public auctions, sales, or online thru GovDeals.com. Surplus Property offers these items to other departments/divisions within the university and other campuses where appropriate. A Disposal Request created through our Surplus Disposal software must be completed and approved before items can be picked up. Once the request has been approved, Surplus will pick items up with no charge to the requesting department.
For contact, locations and other surplus information, please visit: http://www.umsystem.edu/ums/fa/procurement/surplus]]>
The UM System Supply Chain assisted in moving Green Meadows to their new home at the South Providence Clinic. Through a series of work sessions and planning meetings Supply Chain and Plant Engineering collaborated their efforts with the leadership of Green Meadows Family Practice, Green Meadows Child Health, Green Meadows Psychiatry, Missouri Imagine, Woodrail and UPMB Urgent Care to assist them in moving to their new home at South Providence.
There were over twelve truckloads of essentials moved to the new building from these facilities.
The building includes a blood draw lab and pharmacy which will be open seven days per week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Supply Chain will support the building's eight par locations with over 1069 lines items. They will also support mail delivery, medical record transfers, sterile instrument transfers, and specimen transport.
Supply Chain is proud to report that the move was a huge success, under budget and on time for the grand opening!]]>
For several years the university has had a contractual relationship with Enterprise Holdings for rental cars. Our contract with Enterprise Holdings is for both the Enterprise and National Car rental brands. As we continue to grow this relationship I wanted to remind everyone of the many benefits of this agreement.
• During calendar year 2014, university employees rented 5,030 cars and traveled 2,831,114 miles. The average rental rate per mile (without fuel cost) was $0.27. When adding an estimated fuel cost of $0.15 to $0.20 per mile, the cost of renting a car is still less than the university's allowable mileage reimbursement rate.
• All rental rates include Damage Waiver and Business Liability coverage on major vehicle classes when renting for business purposes. This reduces the university's overall liability risk and saves departments money. In addition there is no additional driver fee for business use.
• All vehicle classes, including specialty vehicles such as minivans and SUVs, are available for reservation through enterprise.com or by calling your local Enterprise branch.
• Employees can enroll in National's loyalty program, Emerald Club, to enjoy expedited service at major airport locations, and earn reward points through both National and Enterprise. Emerald Club membership allows travelers to create personal profiles ̶ including payment information, which expedites the reservation process for repeat renters, and earns rental credits toward higher membership status.
• Enterprise's We'll Pick You Up service is available with a 24-hour notice. Contact your local branch for details and to arrange for pick-up service. This service is only offered during normal business hours and based on Enterprise's availability.
Local and nationwide billing is available for Enterprise and National. Billing accounts, also known as GAUM accounts, can be set-up at the department level or individually utilizing the University's P-card. GAUM accounts can be created by completing the billing application available on MU's travel webpage and sending the form to the contact listed. When using a GAUM number, MU employees are not required to have a credit card to rent a vehicle. For questions or assistance creating one a GUAM account, contact Josh Lambert firstname.lastname@example.com.]]>
Records Management kicked off the year with recognition to many of the UM departments that are following records guidelines according to the UM Records policies as it relates to retention, dispositions, storage, vital records and archiving of those records that have historical value to the university.
How these records are managed is important to the university from creation to final disposition. Records Management appreciates the efforts for compliance that these departments have demonstrated.
The following departments received this award]]>
Events over the past few weeks give me great optimism for the future of the UM System, its campuses and operations statewide. While many challenges confront us, I am pleased to see so many students from the state of Missouri and beyond chose one of our campuses to continue their educational pursuits this fall. All of the campuses reported enrollment increases and our collective market share of high school graduates in the state continues to climb. Governor Nixon's release of not only state funding for core operations and the release of $200 million in maintenance and repair (M&R) bonding previously approved by the Missouri legislature for higher education was welcome news. Our system's share of this bonding is just over $95 million and will help all of our campuses make needed improvements to critical teaching and laboratory buildings that serve our students. We look forward to the state giving final approval to the specific M&R projects we submitted this week in early 2015. It appears Missouri's economy is improving as well and we sincerely hope this continued recovery will represent an opportunity for the state to make additional investments in the University of Missouri in the upcoming fiscal year in both core operations and capital requests.
While I am optimistic about our future, I also recognize that recent data released confirms that the state of Missouri is 44th out of 50 in funding higher education on a per student basis. This reality, along with state-level constraints on tuition increases, means we must continue to look for efficiencies in how we support the educational, clinical and research needs of our system. I recognize many reductions and efficiencies have already been made in years past. However, we must realize we face a near term of limited resource growth and must look for ways to thrive and creatively grow this enterprise under these conditions. Every staff member plays a part in helping our leaders think about new ways of doing business and getting our work accomplished.
Additionally, we need to ensure we follow established system policies and procedures created to make sure our funds are spent in a manner consistent with an efficient and high performing public land-grant university system. If you are unfamiliar with the policies, rules or procedures with respect to purchases or contracting, please reach out to the staff members in the supply chain, the controller's office, or experts on each of the campuses and ask for assistance. It is important we continue to spend our limited dollars wisely and within established guidelines and I appreciate everyone's contributions in this effort.
I would like to thank all of the staff across the UM System who work to make the campuses and operations of the university a tremendous asset for the citizens of this state and nation. I hope each of you have the opportunity to enjoy the holiday season with friends and family and look back on a very productive and exciting 2014 across our system. Great things are happening on every campus and throughout the operations of the UM System – I hope you share in the pride of your contributions to the success of this university. Happy New Year to everyone and I look forward to great things ahead in 2015.]]>
ACT NOW before the end of the year, and provide consent to view and print your W-2 forms in myHR. Granting e-consent is easy, simply log in to myHR and navigate to Self Service > Payroll and Compensation > W-2/W-2c Consent.
In January, employees and former employees that have granted consent will be able to access their W-2 from myHR (myhr.umsystem.edu). By providing consent before the end of the year, employees will be notified via email as soon as their W-2 is ready for viewing in myHR. Electronic access to your W-2 in myHR will be much quicker and secure than waiting for a hard copy of your tax statement to arrive in your postal mailbox. The paper Form W-2 will be postmarked on or before January 31, in the event you do not provide consent or you withdraw consent before the end of the year.
If you provide consent and later wish to receive a paper copy of your W-2, you may withdraw your consent at any time prior to the end of the year.]]>
The new Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Uniform Guidance for Federal Awards will be effective December 26, 2014. We are currently developing training and other information including a quick reference guide related to the changes and how they impact the research community. The training sessions will be coordinated by the campus sponsored programs offices and begin in early November through mid-December 2014. We are also reviewing and updating policies as needed. The policies that currently being updated include:
• APM 60.07 – Allowable Costs and Cost Principles
• APM 60.20 – Closing Sponsored Awards
• APM 60.85 – Sub-Recipient Monitoring
Changes to these policies will be included in the training provided. Additional information and an updated Uniform Guidance Summary that will be posted to the Cost Analysis website for reference. If you have any questions about Grant Reform, please contact your campus sponsored programs office.
The A-133 audit is underway for fiscal year 2014. Audit fieldwork is expected to begin on the Research and Development and other smaller programs in January 2015. If you handle federally-funded sponsored projects you may be contacted in late November or early December for documentation to support expenditures charged to federal programs during fiscal year 2014. If you have questions, please contact your campus Sponsored Programs Office or the Controller's Office.]]>
We are pleased to announce that the eEVR process will soon be available within PeopleSoft Finance. eEVR is the new application that is replacing the old paper Effort Verification Reports. The look of the form is the same as the paper, however, now it will be produced in an electronic format. Pen and paper is no longer required for approval, only the simple mouse click of a box will now indicate an approval.
The first monthly eEVRs will be produced in November for the October 2014 time period. The first semiannual eEVRs will be produced in February 2015 for the time frame of July 2014 to December 2014.
Training and training materials will be provided prior to the initial eEVR productions. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your campus Sponsored Programs Office.]]>
Are you planning a field trip or event? Then RIM has a valuable resource for you.
When planning either activity it's possible to get caught up in the excitement or the long to-do list. So for your convenience, we have developed a planning guide to assist with the business details.
The Field Trip Guide has recently been updated to include even more valuable information in planning off campus educational/instructional experiences. This guide will walk you through planning, risk assessment, transportation, contracts, insurance and claim challenges.
For instance, if the event is taking place in a community conference center the facility may require proof of the university's insurance. We can provide evidence of coverage for official university events. Is there a facility use agreement with insurance terms? If so, make sure language is reviewed and the agreement is signed by an authorized signer. Are you hiring a vendor to provide a service on campus during the event? University policy requires insurance from them and based on the service we can tell you what kind of insurance and how much is needed.
The Field Trip Guide is available on our website. Please check it out!
If you have any questions about the forms or university insurance, please contact you campus coordinator, refer to our website or contact us at (573) 882-8100.]]>
Records Management supports university staff and faculty in ensuring that records needed to meet the operational, legal, and regulatory requirements are managed in compliance with university policy.
We assist by:
How we can help:
Important message:
Frequently asked questions:
There are other Best Practices that can always make us better at managing our records, however, becoming policy compliant is the place to start for a good and healthy legal foundation.]]>
Hello and thank you for taking the time to read this quarter's edition of InFocus.
In June, I was honored to be selected by President Wolfe to serve as the Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer for the UM System. It has been a whirlwind first month in Missouri with visits to the each of the units in the Division of Finance, three of the four campuses, an Extension tour, and a visit to the Delta Center, just to name a few.
I appreciate the warm welcome and hospitality I have received since moving to Missouri in late August. The Finance division's reach across the system is remarkable and it is vital that our system has an effective and efficient Finance division in support of the University of Missouri's teaching, research, and service missions.
It is my early observation there are many hard working and dedicated staff in our division committed to helping this system be one of the best in class among the public flagship systems in the United States. Thank you for the work you do to help us reach this goal.
I believe our role in this complex multi-billion dollar enterprise is one of providing high-quality service and support for students, faculty, and staff. Simply, it is not about us – rather, it is the campuses, colleges, schools, farms, research centers, hospitals and clinics, and Extension who we are here to serve. While we do have regulatory responsibilities, how we administer and respond to our constituents is key for me and our division.
We will explore these concepts further in discussions and future issues of InFocus, but I wanted to lead with my firm belief and commitment to dedicated support for those we serve.
I look forward to meeting and getting to know more of you the months and years ahead.
Again, thanks for the welcome and your support during this leadership transition.
Brian D. Burnett
There is a lot happening with the Hyperion project over the next 6 months. The UM System Budget Office and the UM Data Warehouse and Reporting teams are working on an upgrade from Hyperion version 184.108.40.206 to 18.104.22.168 as well as upgrades to the host servers. The pressing need for this upgrade is not only for the improvements to the software, but soon the currently implemented version of the tool and servers will go out of vendor support.
There will be some immediate benefits. The most obvious benefit for many users and their desktop support staff will be broader browser support. Browser testing is underway and it appears that Internet Explorer 9 (IE9) and Firefox 24 ESR may be supported. Additional testing will be completed for other browser versions as well. We will continue efforts to find the best resolution for this issue. With the new software, user interaction through the screens will be enhanced. The team is re-engineering the position budgeting application by changing from Human Capital Planning (HCP) to an application called Salary Planning (SAL PLN) built in the tools more like the Finance Budgeting (FIN) application. This change will allow us to reduce the number of nested forms that users must interact with, infer much of the routine information such as dates, benefit and tax rates, improve budgeting for additional earnings, stream line data feeds from PeopleSoft HR, and update from SAL PLN to FIN at more frequent intervals. There will only be minor changes to the FIN application and there are no planned changes to the Long Range Planning (LRP used by the MU campus) application.
Currently, the UM Budget Office and the UMDW Reporting teams are rolling out new Cognos budget versus actual variance reports at the position budgeting level and updating training materials. Please watch for emails announcing these report additions. Cognos and Smart View report training is being planned for October.
We appreciate the valuable sharing during the Focus meetings with Hyperion users in June. We hope to preview the new software with campus budget officers in September and then other budget users early this fall.]]>
The University accepts credit cards as a method of payment at over 300 merchant locations, consisting of outsourced e-commerce websites, dial up terminals, IP terminals, end-to-end encryption, virtual terminals, and complex point of sale systems. A critical component of the merchant services program is to maintain the security of our customer's data. Recent massive data breaches involving stolen credit card information at Target, Home Depot and others, reinforce the importance of having standards and security in place to protect our customer's credit card information. Compliance and security are more important than ever.
The University is in the process of assessing its PCI (Payment Card Industry) compliance program with an independent qualified security assessor (QSA). The QSA is verifying that the University is adhering to the PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards). These standards are the minimum standards that must be in place to protect the University and its students, donors, and other customers from fraud and misuse of cardholder data.
The PCI DSS standards are reviewed by the PCI council and are updated every three years. On January 1, 2015 the PCI DSS version 2.0 will be retired and the PCI DSS version 3.0 will go into effect. The PCI DSS standards will grow from 288 requirements to 326 requirements in the transition to version 3.0.
There will be training opportunities centering on "PCI training" and "PCI DSS version 2.0 vs. 3.0" at the MU-HRS Training conference taking place Wednesday November 5th and Thursday November 6th. The telepresence room will be used so all campuses can participate. Payment card policies and additional training information are available on the Treasurer's Office website (http://www.umsystem.edu/ums/fa/treasurer/credit_cards_e-commerce).
If you have questions or need further clarification, you can contact John Layman, 573-882-3318 or email@example.com]]>
The new Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Uniform Guidance will be effective December 26, 2014 and implementation will be applicable to new awards and incremental funding awarded on or after that date. The Controller's office has prepared a Uniform Guidance Summary that provides information on several of the new requirements that will impact the University Research Community. The Summary and links to federal websites with additional information on the Uniform Guidance are posted on the Controller's website under the Cost Analysis division.
The A-133 audit is underway for fiscal year 2014. We currently have eight major programs that are being audited, including Student Financial Aid, Research and Development, and other smaller programs. If you handle federally-funded sponsored projects you may be contacted for documentation to support expenditures charged to federal programs during fiscal year 2014. If you have questions, please contact your campus Sponsored Programs Office or the Controller's Office.]]>
Prevailing wage can be an animated topic whether the discussion is with public entities, contractors, workers or trade organizations. It is difficult to remember a legislative session where some bill was not introduced on this subject. Prevailing wage requirements ensure a level playing field for all contractors bidding a project. This was true with the nation's first prevailing wage law in Kansas, 1891. Local contractors paying 'prevailing' wage rates could not compete against out-of-state contractors importing a low-skilled, low-paid workforce. The federal prevailing wage law, Davis-Bacon, passed in 1931 with the same purpose as our nation's first prevailing wage law, brought about when southern contractors brought low-skilled, low-paid workers to do federal projects in New York.
From the University's point of view, there is a category of contractor we want doing our projects. That category of contractor is financially responsible and stable with a safe, trained, experienced work force. The contractors we want cannot compete against less desirable contractors if we don't enforce a level playing field with prevailing wage, as well as with specifications and design. Should the University fail in enforcing our prevailing wage requirements, our bidders list would soon be missing the reputable, qualified contractors we hope are the low bidders. The same result could be achieved by letting the contractor do the plans and specifications without our review. We could have a lot of pole barns on our campuses.
No contractor is interested in spending the time and money to prepare a bid when there is not a level playing field. This is true regardless of whether the contractor is big or small, union or non-union, Republican or Democrat, urban or rural. The union versus non-union issue is a common topic, but the fact is that both Davis and Bacon were Republican United States legislators. Senator Bacon was formerly Secretary of Labor under three presidents, while Representative Davis was formerly a banker.
I attended a legislative hearing last session where a concerned citizen testified that 'we could build our schools for 30% less if we didn't have to pay prevailing wage.' The failed logic is that there is not a 30% labor factor in the project. It is possible one might save 30% by having the materials delivered to the jobsite alone. Then there would be the issue of who is going to erect the structure. More savings could be generated by ignoring ADA requirements, life safety standards, building codes or having no professional architectural or engineering services.
There has been exhaustive professional research done on this topic by leading institutions across the country. I prefer to cite the work done by our own Kelsay, Wray and Pinkham of the Department of Economics, UMKC. I'll quote two sentences from the summary, but the study merits reading. "This study has shown that the benefits of repeal (lower construction costs) are simply not there. This study has shown the costs of repeal are real and substantial and will have a short-term and long-term negative impact on the State of Missouri."
To answer the question in the title of this article, the University can have safe, trained, financially responsible, stable contractors for the same price as questionable contractors, simply by enforcing the prevailing wage provisions of our contracts. This is a simple measure to maximize our return for the millions of dollars we invest in our construction projects throughout the state.]]>
The University business, like others, is going global. There were over 2500 international flights for University business last year.
The number of inquiries about medical care and requests for proof of evacuation and repatriation coverage for visa applications has increased along with the increase in flights. Our website includes a summary of insurance coverage for your University related travel on our department website under International Travel. The website provides an overview of the benefits, and links to descriptions and identification cards that you should print and take with you. Also available is proof of coverage to include with the visa application. The identification cards with coverage dates are also posted on the site to include if the country to which you're traveling requires this detail.
Contact your campus International Center or visit the Risk & Insurance Management website to download and print your identification cards. Please read the coverage summary and use it as a guide of where to turn for assistance while traveling.
Check out our website and call us with any coverage questions.
Safe travels]]>
Every business or program must address well-defined objectives which will add value, either directly to the bottom line or toward the achievement of the organization's goals and objectives. Records management (RM) objectives usually fall into one of three categories:
The Records management program can and should assist in managing University information so that it is timely, accurate, complete, cost-effective, accessible and useable. Better information, at the right time, makes better business.
Even though the Records Management Program doesn't usually generate income, the following are the most important reasons to follow records management policies. (Adapted from Ten Business Reasons for Records Management in Information and Records Management: Document-based Information Systems, Robek, Brown, Stephens, 1995.)
• To Control the Creation and Growth of Records
Despite decades of using various non-paper storage media, the amount of paper in our offices continues to escalate. An effective records management program addresses both creation control (limits the generation of records or copies not required to operate) and records retention (a system for destroying useless records or retiring inactive records), and stabilizes the growth of records in all formats.
• To Reduce Operating Costs
Recordkeeping requires administrative dollars for filing equipment, space in offices, electronic information systems and staffing to maintain an organized system and filing structures (or to search for lost records when there is no organized system in place).
It costs less per linear foot of records to store inactive records in the Records Center versus in the office. [Multiply that cost by 30% to 50% of the records in an office that doesn't follow records management policy], and there is an opportunity to effect some cost savings in space and equipment, and an opportunity to utilize staff more productively – just by implementing records management policies of retention and dispositions for all University records.
Usually, in an office that is not records compliant, 30-50% of the files could be stored off-site in the records center.
Example: In EPA, average 25 feet of paper per person. In a 30 person office that could mean a savings of $7,000 annually! Not sure of this for the University, but very sure we could use the savings.
• To Improve Efficiency and Productivity
Time spent searching for missing or miss-filed records are non-productive. Following the Records Management policies can help any upgrade recordkeeping systems so that information retrieval is enhanced, with corresponding improvements in office efficiency and productivity. A well designed and operated filing and naming convention with an effective index can facilitate retrieval and deliver information, paper or electronic to users more quickly.
• To Assimilate New Records Management Technologies
Records Management Compliance can provide the University with the capability to assimilate new technologies and take advantage of their many benefits. Investments in new computer systems don't solve filing problems unless current manual recordkeeping systems are analyzed (and occasionally, overhauled) before automation is applied.
• To Ensure Regulatory Compliance
In terms of recordkeeping requirements, the United States is the most heavily regulated country in the world. These laws can create major compliance problems for businesses and government agencies since they can be difficult to locate, interpret and apply. The only way an organization or institution can be reasonably sure that it is in full compliance with laws and regulations are by following a records management program and researching regulatory compliance, while working closely with the Office of General Counsel. Failure to comply with laws and regulations could result in severe fines, penalties or other legal consequences.
• To Minimize Litigation Risks
We implement the Records Management Compliance Program in order to reduce the risks associated with litigation and potential penalties. Consistently applying Records Management policies can reduce the liabilities associated with document disposal by providing for their systematic, routine disposal in the normal course of business.
• To Safeguard Vital Information
Universities, public or private, need a comprehensive program for protecting its vital records and information from catastrophe or disaster, because every organization or institution is vulnerable to loss. Operated as part of the overall records management program, vital records programs preserve the integrity and confidentiality of the most important records and safeguard the vital information assets according to a "Disaster Preparedness Plan" to protect the records, both paper and electronic.
• To Support Better Management Decision Making
In today's business environment, the person(s) that has the relevant data first often wins, either by making the decision ahead of the competition, or by making a better, more informed decision. A records management program can help ensure that leaders or executives have the information they need when they need it.
• To Preserve the Corporate Memory
The University's files contain its institutional memory, an irreplaceable asset that is often overlooked. Every business day, you create the records which could become background data for future management decisions and planning. These records document the activities which future scholars may use for research.
• To Foster Professionalism in Records and Information Management
A business office with files askew, unprotected vital records, poor system back-ups, documents stacked on top of file cabinets and in boxes everywhere creates a poor working environment. The perceptions of customers and the general public, and "image" and "morale" of the staff, and cost, may be among the best reasons to follow the established Records Management Program.]]>
The University of Missouri System Supply Chain has been awarded the National Procurement Institute's Excellence in Procurement award. This is UM System Supply Chain's 8th time for receiving this award since 2005 in recognition of their outstanding operation. In 2012, with six consecutive awards, the UM System Supply Chain was 1 of only 20 higher education agencies across the United States to receive the award and an even shorter list that had received it for 5 or more consecutive years. With this 2014 award, The UM System Supply Chain has received this award 8 out of 9 consecutive years.
On August 1st a conference related to the University's Supplier Diversity Advocacy-Mentoring Program was held in Columbia. Roughly 50 people attended the day-long work and education session. Attendees included an outstanding mix of participants from the University's campuses, the System, and Extension, a number of our key construction supplier partners (Weitz, River City, PGAV Architects and others), a mix of minority and women-owned businesses (including those in the program) and a strong external group of stakeholders which included Ed Bryant, President of the St. Louis Minority Business Council, and Steve Foucart, CFO of Missouri State. Our luncheon speakers included Celeste Metcalf, Director of the Office of Equal Opportunity, State of Missouri, and Dennis Vinson, CEO of Signature Packaging. Signature is located in Jackson and primarily services Procter & Gamble's Cape Girardeau Diaper plant, providing corrugated boxes for Pampers. The outcome of this meeting was a significant sharing of business knowledge among all panelists and audience members.
For those that may not know, the University started an Advocacy-Mentoring Program several years ago under Jackie Kelly's leadership, and some key advice from people like Bob Simmons (UMKC) and John Neal (MU). A "triad" is created to assist a minority and/or a woman-owned business to expand business acumen and potentially grow business with the University and other firms. The Triad consists of the mentee; a mentor company (that is typically a large majority-owned business) and a University manager in the area of business the mentee/mentor is in. For more information regarding the UM Supplier Diversity program, go to the website:
The triads in this class are:
• Nehemiah Construction (Columbia-Mentee), River City (Mentor), John Neal (MU)
• A3 Architects (Liberty –Mentee) , PGAV Architects(Mentor), Jeff Vandal (UMKC)
• Atelier3 Design (St. Louis-Mentee), Cannon Design (Mentor), Larry Eisenberg( UMSL)
• Brooks Environmental(St. Louis-Mentee), Midwest SG (Mentor) , Ted Ruth (MST)
• Carr Flooring (St. Louis-Mentee), Simms Building (Mentor), Daryl Hodnett (UM System)
I'd like to add that Simms Building was in the first graduating class of the program as a mentee. Floyd Simms is now paying that forward with his work as a mentor. Additionally, River City is now in their second round as a mentor in the program, helping to develop a Columbia-based firm.
We have a simple vision: To be a leader in economic inclusion through our supplier diversity efforts among America's higher education institutions. I will continue to need your help for us to achieve the vision. Together, we can get there.]]>
On Friday, June 13 the appointment of our new Chief Financial Officer, Dr. Brian Burnett was announced. Dr. Burnett is from the University of Colorado – Colorado Springs, where he currently serves as senior executive vice chancellor for administration and finance.
Dr. Burnett will join the finance team in leading the finance and business functions of the system, our four campuses and the university health care enterprise. His background includes service as associate vice president for administration and foundation relations at CU, where he managed the Development Services Agreement between the university and the CU Foundation supporting fundraising activities at all campuses in the University of Colorado System. As an associate member of the graduate faculty, Dr. Burnett has published several works and articles, as well as guest lectured and presented on the economic future and fiscal health of public higher education, particularly in his home state of Colorado.
Dr. Burnett's first day with the system will be August 25, which will enable me to again focus full-time on my continuing role as Treasurer and Chief Investment Officer. I appreciate your hard work, cooperation and patience during this interim period.
Please welcome Dr. Burnett to our Finance team.
Tom Richards
Interim Vice President and Treasurer
Beginning July 1, 2014, the University will change its per diem allowance for domestic overnight travel outside the state of Missouri to "CONUS" rates as determined by the federal government. Specific meal rates by location can be found at www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/perdiemCalc.cfm. For overnight travel within the state of Missouri, the meal allowance will remain at $42.
The per diem rate change will take place automatically within the Travel & Expense system. Beginning July 1, 2014, Travel & Expense will automatically populate your per diem for the day based on the final destination for the day. For example, on day one of a trip you start in Columbia and drive to St. Louis to catch a flight to New York where you spend the rest of the day. New York would be the location used for that day's per diem since it is the final destination of the day.]]>
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued the Final Uniform Guidance which includes Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards on December 26, 2013. This guidance consolidates all of the circulars including those applicable to higher education such as A-110, A-21, and A-133. The new Uniform Guidance will be effective December 26, 2014 and the implementation will be applicable to new awards and incremental funding awarded on or after December 26, 2014. The following link on the NACUBO website provides additional information go to: http://www.nacubo.org/Business_and_Policy_Areas/Grants_Management/Grants_Management_News/OMB_Issues_Final_Guidance_on_Grant_Reforms.html
We will provide additional information related to the changes and how they impact the research community once we have finalized our review of the new regulations. If you have any questions about Grant Reform, please contact your campus sponsored programs office.]]>


text:
Staten Island's NRA Flare: Council Senselessly Votes for Putting Armed Guards in Schools
Sponsor Content
Sponsor Content
It's not just guns we have to worry about, when we discuss school safety. Whether you agree or disagree with the resolution, I applaud the CEC for starting a real discussion. Only with discussions can we come up with solutions. I spoke last night and here is my little take on it.
My take is here: http://protectportelos.org/guns-knives-and-very-sharp-2-pencils/


text:
- Resources
- Related Research Areas
- Earth Surface & Interior, Water & Energy Cycles
The goal of the work proposed here is to develop and validate an improved coastal ocean analysis system that (i) comprises a reprocessed coastal altimeter data stream derived using regional de-aliasing corrections and other required near-coast data filtering and error correction approaches, and (ii) incorporates these data into a high-resolution regional ocean model using advanced 4-dimensional variational methods for data assimilation. The coastal altimeter product will include data starting from the Topex/Poseidon mission through to OSTM and will be implemented within the Radar Altimeter Database System (RADS). The ocean model will be the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS) which is widely used for continental shelf applications, and includes 4-Dimensional Variational data assimilation algorithms well suited to the assimilation of along-track altimeter data. We will prototype the system in the Gulf of Maine and Mid-Atlantic Bight (GoM-MAB)region where there exist extensive complimentary data sets for validation from Regional Associations of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS). The waters of the region are used heavily for maritime activities, and the system we develop will be targeted toward practical applications related to numerous societal needs. The methodologies will be generic with a view to application in coastal regions globally. To achieve these goals we have assembled a team with extensive prior experience in altimeter data processing (D. Vandemark, R. Scharroo), advanced altimeter data assimilation (J. Zavala-Garay, J. Wilkin), and both data analysis (G. Han) and modeling (Han, Wilkin) of the circulation of the GoM-MAB region. We have also established a formal collaboration with the European team led by L. Roblou that pioneered coastal altimeter studies in the Mediterranean Sea and has submitted a complimentary proposal entitled MARINA (MARgin Integrated Approach) to the CNES Ocean Surface Topography Mission announcement.
Project PI: John Wilkin/Rutgers University
Institute of Marine and Coastal Sciences Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey 71 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8521, USA
Phone: 732-932-8578
Fax: 732-932-8578
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|Property type
|Minimum Stay
|7 nights
A Great family waterfront home with pool, this executive house with high quality designer furnishings is set in mature tropical palm surroundings and situated on a deep water canal in Siesta Isle, a small private community with no through traffic, ideal for beach with easy access to town during the busy peak season, a great boating neighbourhood, close to the white powder sandy beaches, only minutes to the Gulf, approximately 2800sq ft, the house has 4 bedrooms, two bathrooms. The house will comfortably sleep 4 to 8 and is priced accordingly for high and low seasons see below and in rates section for more information.
The main living area has French doors as do two of the bedrooms opening onto a 1000sq ft screened lania overlooking the pool and more, ideal for balmy evening meals or just watching the beautiful sunsets. Stunning pool, 1500sq ft dock great for fishing or watching the manatee and dolphins swim buy, boat rentals available only minutes away at one of many Marinas, numerous restaurants, adventure golf, "Tanger" designer outlets, are all nearby. 10 minutes to Sanibel & Captiva, 25 minutes from Airport.
There is ample parking for 3 cars. Come and experience the magic of ft Myers beach fl, you won't want to leave.
Unless requested otherwise Prices quoted are for up to 8 guests during high season (December-May) and up to 4 guests during low season (May-December)
4th bedroom and second bath being in a self-contained unit at ground level, this is available if requested and costed accordingly,
See notes in Rates section for occupancy levels and charges relating to number of guests during high and low seasons
Check out our website www.ft-myersbeach.net for more detail
Keywords: Waterfront, executive, Family Home, with pool, Home from Home, 5 minutes to beach, Ideal location for Local festivals,
Having experienced numerous property locations in Ft Myers Beach for 20 years this is the most peaceful and idyllic location I have ever come across. some says Paradise, I say heaven.
Peacful days, great sunsets, ideal location for both beach and town avoiding traffic at peak season.
Liked the house a lot. Outdoor and pool area are beautiful. Nice big bedrooms and closets. Kitchen is nice. Loved the big window that opened the kitchen to the lanai. Could use more plastic cups,plates and a pitcher for use around the pool. With all the stairs I would not recommend this home to folks with knee or hip issues. Great location on the water.
We had a family vacation with 6 adults and 3 small children. We had enough space for everyone. The children especially loved the pool and the lanai was great for family meals. We had a problem with a bedroom ceiling fan and the owner was very responsive and had it replaced while we were there. We were happy to find equipment such as beach chairs and sand toys available for use. I would recommend this property to friends.
It was everything the description said it was. There were 6 adults and 3 children and we all enjoyed the pool, the space and how close the beach was. We would recommend this property to our friends.
The pictures you see on the website are accurate. We spent most of our time outside on the lanai and in the pool. It is a beautiful setting on the canal and on every floor there is a balcony or lanai to see the scenery and the sunsets. Your first contact will be the owner, Doug, and he could not be more helpful which is quite a feat since he lives in Britain. His representative paid us a visit the day we arrived to answer any questions. The location could not have been more convenient - we were app. 15 min. from the downtown Ft. Myers Beach. We ate out every meal but breakfast and never ran into a restaurant that we would not have gone back to. But there were so many we seldom did repeats. We do recommend Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille, Pincers Crab Shack, & Fresh Catch Bistro which are all in the direction of Ft. Myers Beach. Save Fresh Catch Bistro for an evening and you can watch the sun set from your table on one of the most beautiful beaches there. In the other direction on San Carlos Blvd. is one of the best sushi places we've ever eaten at - Zushi Zushi. The service and food were top notch. In the same small plaza is the Skip One Beach Seafood restaurant which was superb. And for that first shopping trip for the essentials, I recommend the Super Targets. They were excellent even for groceries and there was more than one within easy driving distance. One of the Super Targets was in a shopping center on S. Tamiami Trail in a shopping center with a Barnes & Noble and Total Wine & More which is a terrific store for an amazing selection of beers and wines. I would highly recommend this house to anyone looking for a relaxing time in the sun!
OK, so I am the Dad/Grandpa from our group. I arrived a couple of days later than the rest of my family, but what a great time! Beautiful home, nice neighbors, nice neighborhood, manatees, swimming pool, great deck, and comfortable kitchen. I woke early, made coffeee, made breakfast and just relaxed. Ft Myers Beach was good, restaurants galore and I made sure everyone chauferred me around. I wondered if my 14 month grandson was disappointed coming home??? I would return - with family in tow.
We spent a wonderful two weeks here and could not have been happier with all the arrangements and features of the house. During that time, we celebrated a 90th birthday, a 40th birthday, and 2 babies (ages 13 months and 4 months) had their first trips to the beach and first "swims" in the pool.
The house is on a very quiet street, but not far from all the action of the beach. The decor was lovely and the layout of the home was ideal: lots of space to share family meals; lots of space to get away from each other for a bit of quiet time! The lanai and pool area were especially nice and the large dock was perfect for fishing--and there were fish to be caught. A bonus was the group of 6 or 8 manatees that showed up one morning and swam contentedly for several hours just off the dock; the 10-year-old probably thinks we ordered them just for him.
My son-in-law rented a kayak for a week and everyone had great fun using it to explore the canals, do additional fishing, and paddle to the beach. (A good way to avoid the traffic!) With the small children, we didn't eat out often, but there are a wide variety of restaurants from which to choose. Heavenly Biscuits and the Love Boat for ice cream were stops more than once!
Doug was a pleasure to work with, responding promptly to my every question.
We all had a wonderful time!
|Rate Period
|Weekend Night
|Monthly *
Main season
Jan 3 2015 - May 31 2015
7 night minimum stay
|Notes: Rates are based on 4 guests; add $15 per night, per additional guest
low season
Jun 1 2015 - Dec 19 2015
7 night minimum stay
|Notes: Rates are based on 4 guests; add $15 per night, per additional guest
Main season
Dec 20 2015 - May 29 2016
7 night minimum stay
|Notes: Rates are based on 4 guests; add $15 per night, per additional guest
Low Season
May 30 2016 - Dec 18 2016
7 night minimum stay
|Notes: Rates are based on 4 guests; add $15 per night, per additional guest
My Standard Rate
7 night minimum stay
|pool heat per week
|$125 + Tax
|$225 + Tax
|Refundable damage deposit
|Booking fee
|$100 + Tax
|Tax Rate
Our rates range from $950 to $1950 per week subject to party size, length of stay, and time of year.
The quoted rates at all times are for up to 4 persons occupying the house, additional people are charged at $100pppw. overstays or additional guest not advised to those numbers booked are charged proportionately + $100.
* Approximate monthly rate. Actual rate will depend on the days of the month you stay.
Payment is usually accepted in the quoted currency (USD) unless the currency and the amount is specifically agreed in advance with the owner / advertiser.


text:
WANTED: Wanted: Florida Native Shrubs, Flowers, Trees
Hi all. I am looking for a Sycamore and Eastern Redbud tree.
Also looking for seeds/cuttings for native shrubs, flowers, groundcovers like wild coffee, indian hawthorne, lantana, beach sunflower, blanketflower, mimosa, etc.
I have horsetail and firebush cuttings and sunflowers (seeds/plants) to trade.
I've got a Florida Anise cutting that's been in water for three months...still no roots, but appears to be fine. Also a beautyberry who's seeds are just starting to turn purple. And lantana everywhere, purple and white.
I've also got 10-20 vibrunum suspensum shrubs, 2-3' high that have to go. I think they might be natives, I know this variety is only found in Florida according to the USDA site. I'm in Tampa, right off the Veterans. If you want them, you'll have to come dig them. My yard is almost full shade and they aren't getting enough sun where they are, so they have to go. Nothing needed in return, just come get the stuff.


text: Clean Gut: the Breakthrough Plan for Eliminating the Root Cause of Disease and Revolutionizing Your Health by Alejandro Junger buy used Used & Rare price $16.23 new from$19.79 shop with confidence SPECIAL SHIPPING CONSIDERATIONS FOR USED & RARE ITEMS. Please see the special considerations for shipping Used & Rare items, including extended delivery times, possible import duties & taxes. Delivered in 3-5 weeks Format: Hardcover Publisher: HarperOne Condition: The following ISBNs are associated with this title: ISBN - 10:0062075861 ISBN - 13:9780062075864 Seller Comments: Connecting readers with great books since 1972. Used books may not include companion materials, some shelf wear, may contain highlighting/notes, may not include cdrom or access codes. Customer service is our top priority! From the Publisher The New York Times bestselling author of Clean offers a groundbreaking program to eliminate minor and major health problems-from extra weight, chronic pain, and allergies to heart disease, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, and depression.All of today''s most diagnosed ailments can be traced back to an injured and irritated gut. The gut is an intricate and powerful system naturally designed to protect and heal the body every moment of every day. And yet for far too many of us this remarkable system is in disrepair, which leads to all kinds of health problems. We are sick and getting sicker. Chronic diseases are on the rise, and everyone we know seems to be suffering from something, getting tests done and taking over-the-counter or prescription medications. But we no longer have to be sick to get healthy. Dr. Alejandro Junger explains how instead of treating the symptoms as they arise, we can preemptively attack disease before it takes root in the gut.No matter your current state of health, you will benefit from this program. We are all walking around with damaged guts, to different degrees suffering the consequences in our day-to-day and long-term health. The Clean Gut program will put an end to these everyday ailments, reverse chronic disease, and help you achieve true, long-lasting health.


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I love coffee, 'cause it helps me stay awake on the busiest days, but I think sometimes I drink too much and end up too hyped up for some time.
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