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Continuing Medical Education (CME) refers to a specific form of education that helps medical personnels to maintain competence, integrity and innovation in their fields.
The knowledge can be conveyed as live lectures, interactive sessions, written publications, online conferences, symposia and audio visual workshops.
The aim of CME is to provide knowledge and skills generally recognized and accepted by professionals of basic and clinical medical sciences and healthcare providers.
In this regard, Dowites78 Operation Theatre Complex is playing a vital role. Dowited78 Operation Theatre (OT) Complex started functioning on 13th September 2007 in the center of Karachi's biggest public sector tertiary care hospital. It was designed to cater the ever increasing needs of poor patients of Civil Hospital Karachi, with an aim to facilitate modern and hi-tech recommended health care in terms of surgery.
Dowites78 is not only providing free of cost operative care to the needy community through out the country but is also serving as a hub of CME. The well decorated, capacious and sophisticated seminar hall of OT complex provides recent and authentic medical knowledge to health community.
|Event Details
Esophago Gastro Duodenoscopy (EGD)
|26thDecember, 2016.
|Hernia Road Show
Dr. Tim Tollens conducted a one day workshop named "Hernia Road Show" along with three live case demonstrations on various topics including Open Inguinal Hernia, Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia and Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia.
|28th November, 2016
|World Pharmacists day
The day was celebrated to highlight the impact and added value of the pharmacy profession and its role in improving health to authorities, other professions and the media, as well as to the general public.
|28th September, 2016
|Induction Ceremony for new HD Laparoscope
The inauguration ceremony of new HD Laparoscope donated by Infaaq Foundation was organized on 31 Aug 2016. The honorable guests included MS. Jameel Siddiqui, Dr. Saeed Qureshi, Prof. Amjad Siraj, Dr. Bilal Ahmed and Dr. Minhaj-ud-Din.
|31st August, 2016.
|Colon 2015
Prof. Amjad Siraj Memon at Dow University of Health Sciences/Civil Hospital, Karachi developed a dedicated unit for colorectal surgery with state-of-the-art diagnostic treatment facilities.
|22nd May, 2015
|Opening Ceremony of Minimal Access Training Unit
The purpose of having a Minimal Access Training Unit is to teach the house officers, doctors and surgeons regarding innovative surgical techniques.
|10th December, 2014
|Teaching of innovative Laparoscopic Surgical Techniques.
Soon we are coming up with Minimal Access Training Unit, in Dowites 78 Operation Theatre Complex, a centre of excellence created for the teaching of innovative Laparoscopic Surgical Techniques.
|16th May, 2014
|"Surgicon 2013", A grand scientific event was organized in collaboration with SAARC. The conference was attended by eminent surgeons from U.K, U.S & other European countries as well from SAARC countries.
|17th till 19th December 2013
|"Dengue Awareness & Treatment",, In collaboration with National Institute of Health & WHO, a one day awareness session was held at O.T complex, which was mainly attended by medical doctors, faculty members, nurses & paramedical staff.
|12th November 2013
|"PPTCT/ HIV", Four days training session of healthcare providers was held to train the health professionals on the basis of HIV, PPTCT, universal precautions & strengthen the linkages between hospitals specialties & HIV treatment/care/support centers.
|17th till 20th September 2013
|Breast Reconstruction, A Comprehensive live demo workshop was held by Dr. Rizwan Alvi, a very well-renowned Surgeon, Breast Specialist Consultant, Plastic Surgeon, Mersey Regional Plastics and Burns Centre Liverpool UK.
|27th & 28th August 2013
|Dengue Case Management, An orientation workshop organized by Health Department, Government of Sindh & Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi.
|13th April 2013
|HIV/AIDS, An HIV/AIDS control program was held by Dr. Azra Ghayas Abro. Incharge HIV/AIDS treatment & Care Centre.
|22nd till 23rd October 2012
|Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), An awareness lecture program was conducted by Civil hospital Karachi regarding newly reported cases of Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) caused by Naegleria Fowleri (brain-eating amoeba).
|13th October 2012
|Breast Oncoplastic Procedures, A lecture on breast reconstruction and a live demo workshop was performed by Dr. Rizwan Alvi.
|4th September 2012
|HIV AIDS, An awareness session for healthcare providers by Sindh AIDS control program
|22nd July 2012
|Surgical oncology, PIMA organized a CME update lecture chaired & Co chaired by Prof. Saeed Quraishi & Prof. Shams Nadeem & renowned surgeons from major academic institutions.
|20th July 2012
|A Path to Peace", A seminar was arranged by Media Inbytes facilitated by Ms. Shabina Ali, fitness expert & Physiotherapist, AKU Rehabilitation Centre.
|16th June 2012
|T.B/D.O.T.S", A seminar to spread the awareness on core T.B/D.O.T.S was held at O.T complex for paramedic staff.
|11th till 13th June 2012
|Moving Towards Services Excellences", A seminar was held by BSN students of Dow university of health sciences doing Senior electives in school of Nursing, CHK.
|26th March 2012
|Management & Assessment of Dengue Fever", A program for medical students, doctors & other hospital personals was conducted by Dr. Afia Zafar to spread the awareness.
|3rd November 2011
|Pain Management", A workshop organized by Dr. Safia Zafer Siddique Head of Department of Anesthesia, CHK.
|18th June 2011
|War Surgery, hand on training workshop, conducted by Mrs. Detta Gleeson Deputy Health Cordinator ICRC Islamabad
|21st till 27th Feb 2011...
|Case Management on Dengue/DHF, A training session for those healthcare providers who can train others and support the clinical assessment and management of cases of dengue/dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF).
|22nd till 26th November 2010
|"Research Methodolgy", By Medinbytes in four session.
|29th April, 3rd, 10th & 17th August 2010
|Lecture on Academic and Professional Writing.
|28th April 2010
|"Techniques of I/V and BLS", By Medinbytes.
|21st April 2010
|"Instrumental delivery", By Department of Obs & Gynar unit-III.
|23rd January 2010
|"Infection Control Program", By Infection Control Committee (ICC).
|January 18th 2010 and 11th February 2010
|"Pre Conference Work Shop", for Surgicon2010 by Society of Surgeon of Pakistan (SSP).
|11th till 15th January 2010
|"Swine Flu Virus-The New Global Threat", By MedInbytes.
|30th May 2009
|"TOACS for IMM & MCPS PG's", By Gynae & Obs Unit II.
|30th April 2009
|"MOCK Examination for IMM, MCPS Candidate", By Gynae and Obs Unit IV.
|25th April 2009
|"Unfolding the mysteries of ECG", an ever needed lecture. Dr. Syed Zahid Jamal (MD) Associate Professor of NICVD helped the audience to explore the mysteries of ECG.
|26th and 31st March 2009
|"Basics of Research", a two session event. Dr. Momin Kazi taught basic methodology of research to the health community which was attended mainly by house doctors and post-graduates.
|21st, 25th, 28th, 4th March and 4th April 2009
|"Iodine Deficiency", By CDGK.
|17th February 2009
|"Professional Development", a lecture organized in which Dr. Maimoona and Mr. Umair enlightened the path of young doctors with realm of professionalism.
|16th December 2008
|"Personal Development in The Competitive World of Medicine", By PMA.
|13th December 2008
|"11th Advance Course for FCPS", By Gynae & Obs Department.
|25th November till 4th December 2008
|"Reconstructive Head & Neck Surgery", By ENT Department.
|12th November 2008
|"Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Youth Development Program", By CHK Administration.
|7th till 13th October 2008
|"Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Youth Development Program", By CHK Administration.
|15th till 27th September 2008
|"Head And Neck", by MedInBytes.
|30th August 2008
|"Electives: Why and How Career Option", By IFMSA.
|15th August 2008
|"How To Write A CV?", By IFMSA.
|14th August 2008
|"OCSE", By Department of Gynae and Obs.
|9th August 2008
|"Genitourinary System", by MedInbytes.
|2nd August 2008
|"Chest And CVS", by MedInBytes.
|26th July 2008
|"GIT",by Medinbytes.
|12th July 2008
|"Radiology Workshop", By MedInByte.
|22nd April 2008
|"Recent Advances in Oncology", By Department of Surgery.
|19th April 2008
|"Laparoscopic Hernia Repair", General Surgery Department.
|9th till 11th April 2008
|"Modern Techniques in Hypospadias Surgery", Plastic Surgery Department.
|31st March & 1st April 2008
|"Head & Neck Surgical Oncology", By ENT Department.
|28th till 30th March 2008
|"Recent Advances in Oncology", By Surgical Faculty.
|22nd March 2008
|"10th Advance Course for The PG's of MRCOG", by faculty of Obestetrics &Gynaecology.
|26th January to 4th February 2008
|"Head & Oncology Workshop", Organized by department of Oral, Head & Neck surgery & Professional Development centre.
|5th till 7th November 2007
|"Needle Sticks Injuries", by B-Braun.
|19th September 2007
|"Multidisciplinary Approach In Treating Breast Cancer", by Surgical Faculty.
|26th June 2007
|"Recent Trends in Cleft Lip & Palate Management", By Plastic Surgery Department.
|22nd till 24th May 2007
|"Head and Neck Surgical Oncology", Conducted by ENT Department.
|March 2007
Continuing Medical Education (CME) is not just to provide updates of clinical knowledge to health community, other learning is needed, including strategies for multi-disciplinary and multi-professional working. Dowites78 OT Complex is in the first line in these preceding. In short, Dowites78 OT Complex is serving as a platform of learning for the future doctors and the provision of medical surgical care to the poor class of our community, which they were deprived of, in the past.


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*HOLIDAY HOURS: PASSOVER & EASTER* Sunday, April 13: 8AM-6PM Monday, April 14: 8AM-5PM Tuesday, April 15: 8AM-5PM April 16-April 19: regular business hours Sunday, April 20: 8AM-4:30PM
Entries Tagged as 'Shop'
PASSOVER & EASTER Holiday Hours at Russ & Daughters
April 11th, 2014 · 8:57 am
Tags: Easter, holiday, holiday hours, Holidays, Hours, Passover
Spectacular Caviar to Celebrate the New Year, at Russ & Daughters
December 31st, 2013 · 10:29 am
This year's caviar is outstanding! There's still time to arrange for a fabulous New Year's Eve experience! Russ & Daughters is known by generations of caviar lovers around the world because our expertise and access allow us to select the highest grade caviar. We're thrilled with our caviar selection this year and are happy to [...]
Phones are fixed!
May 24th, 2013 · 9:24 am
Our phones are working again, and we're excited to start taking your calls again!
Russ & Daughters holiday hours: Passover & Easter
April 5th, 2012 · 3:48 pm
You can view our Passover specialties menu online. Then, come in to the shop to pick up everything you need for an appetizing holiday. For complete business hours, location, and directions, please visit our website.
Tags: holiday, Holidays, Hours, Passover
An Appetizing Thanksgiving
November 15th, 2011 · 1:49 pmEntertaining · Holidays · Pack to Travel · Shop · Smoked Salmon · Take Home · Tradition
Tags: catering, Entertaining, Holidays, Hors d'oeuvres, Orders, Thanksgiving
For Mother's Day, Share a Taste of New York
May 3rd, 2011 · 10:00 am
Mother's Day is Sunday, but it's not too late to give the mothers in your life a most appetizing gift. Russ & Daughters ships nationwide and delivers throughout NYC. Select one of our classic gift packages like the New York Brunch, Martha's Favorites, or, if she's a caviar lover, the Kiss from the Sea. If [...]
Tags: Bagels, Brunch, gift packages, holiday, Holidays, New York Brunch, Pack to Travel
Pickled Lox, Pickle Day, and Pickles Every Day
October 11th, 2010 · 10:13 am
RUSS & DAUGHTERS PICKLED LOX Sunday, October 17 is the 10th annual "International Pickle Day" – a celebration of the rich food history and pickling traditions of the Lower East Side. Russ & Daughters will be there, and we hope that you'll stop by our table at the festival. At the Pickle Day festival, Russ [...]
Tags: appetizing, Beet & Lemon Shrub, Events, In The Neighborhood, Out and About, Pickle Day, pickled lox
Holiday Hours
September 15th, 2010 · 8:00 am
Russ & Daughters is open today from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Tags: holiday, Holidays, Hours, In the Store, Visitors, Yom Kippur
Holiday Hours: Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur 2010
August 16th, 2010 · 11:29 amEntertaining · Holidays · Hours · In the Store · Pack to Travel · Shop · Take Home · Tradition
Tags: Entertaining, Holidays, Hours, In the Store, Pack to Travel, Rosh Hashanah, Shop, Take Home, Yom Kippur
Pack a Russ & Daughters Picnic This Holiday Weekend
May 28th, 2010 · 3:41 pm
Russ & Daughters is open on Memorial Day, with special holiday hours: Monday, May 31 – Memorial Day 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Russ & Daughters will return to regular business hours on Tuesday, June 1. Stop by the shop, where we can pack your order as a picnic — in an insulated bag with [...]
Tags: gift packages, Hours, Pack to Travel, Picnic

subset: commoncrawl


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Dr. Conrad Murray's Defense dealt Some Stunning Loses in Pre Trial Motions.Posted by rose in RoseSpeaks
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor agreed to a motion by prosecutors to exclude six of Jackson's former doctors — including Dr. Arnold Klein. He must be feeling like he got a get out of jail free card after the latest filings and counter claims in his bankruptcy.
In court papers filed Monday, defense attorneys Edward Chernoff and Nareg Gourjian alleged that Klein "administered frequent intramuscular injections of Demerol to Mr. Jackson for no valid medical purpose," and that Jackson "became physiologically and psychologically dependent on Demerol."
"I do not think it is relevant," Judge Pastor said. Pastor also ruled that the defense could not make any reference to the 2003 search of Jackson's ranch in Santa Barbara county, saying that it had no bearing on his death. So those drugs and the allegations of needle marks is out for Murray's defense as well, what a win for the D. A. in this case.
Chernoff argued that the testimony would show that Jackson was "addicted to and withdrawing from Demerol" a factor Chernoff said was "important to our defense" . Judge Pastor said nope, no can do.
Pastor said he would allow testimony from two other doctors, Allen Metzger and David Adams. Murray's defense team says Jackson asked Metzger in April 2009 to give him an intravenous sedative, a request the physician refused to grant.
Adams meanwhile gave Jackson the anesthetic propofol on four occasions in 2008, after the singer had oral surgery. Jackson also by many accounts used the drug as a sleep aid. Pastor also approved testimony from a nurse who treated Jackson in 2009.
Dr. Murray is facing charges for involuntary homicide in Jackson's death on June 25, 2009. Murray could face up to four years in prison if convicted.
His defense team is expected to argue that Jackson gave himself an excessive dose of the drug while the doctor was out of the room at the singer's mansion in the affluent Holmby Hills neighborhood near Los Angeles. The defense has also floated the theory that Jackson committed suicide.
Jury selection will begin on September 8, with opening statements scheduled for September 20 or 27.
We encourage all of you to join other posters to discuss all of the cases we cover. Diamond Girl runs the community part of the site and remember discuss the evidence don't attack other posters. If you read a post that upsets you just scroll past that comment http://community.rosespeaks.com/ I seldom step on the forums that belongs to the members and is in great hands with Diamond Girl and she will be having a robust discussion there that all of you are invited to join
Visit our Download Section on all cases involving Michael Jackson for all documents on this case we are following. I will be updating all of the cases documents this coming weekends.
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©Rose Turner
August 30, 2011
All Rights Reserved, do not reproduce in whole or in part without the express written consent of the author.
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Please also read our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy.Tags: 2003 search of Jackson's ranch in Santa Barbara county, anesthetic propofol, Beverly Hills, Celebrity Trials, Dr. Allen Metzger, Dr. Arnold Klein, Dr. David Adams, Edward Chernoff, Edward Chernoff Esq., High Profile Trials, Hollyweird Criminal Justice, Hollywood, Hollywood Criminal Justice, Holmby Hills neighborhood, intramuscular injections of Demerol, involuntary homicide, Jackson's ranch in Santa Barbara county, Judge Michael Pastor, Los Angeles, Los Angeles California, Los Angeles Superior Court, Michael Jackson, Nareg Gourjian, Nareg Gourjian Esq., physiologically and psychologically dependent on Demerol, Santa Barbara County California


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Olmsted County Places - Eyota
Eyota railway village was platted in November, 1864, and incorporated on March 9, 1875. The township was organized in 1858, initially named Springfield, but changed in 1859 to Eyota, which is a Dakota or Sioux word, spelled iyotan by Riggs in the Dakota Dictionary. It means "greatest, most." The village actually got its start in the fall of 1854, when Benjamin Bear made a claim near the center of what would be the town, and in May of the following year he moved his family there. That same year, H. G. Freeman, William Potter, Charles Keyes, Clark Brown and several others settled in the vicinity of the Bear home.
MINNESOTA GEOGRAPHIC NAMES Their Origin and Historic Significance
History of Winona and Olmsted Counties, 1883
Home | Olmsted County Places
©2008 Genealogy Trails


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JetBlue Adopts Bill Me Later Payment Option
JetBlue has announced "a partnership with Bill Me Later, a non-credit card form of payment for customers purchasing JetBlue travel. The payment method allows customers to safely and conveniently make JetBlue travel reservations at http://www.jetblue.com using the innovative payment system of I4 Commerce."
"We are constantly looking for new ways to enhance our customers' experience, and Bill Me Later is another great example of that,'' said Andrea Spiegel, JetBlue Airways Vice President, Sales and Marketing. "This creates the opportunity for even more travelers to fly with us and experience our award-winning customer service and in-flight amenities.''
JetBlue's adoption of Bill Me Later allows travelers the ability to pay for tickets more quickly, and without entering credit card information,'' said Vince Talbert, vice president of marketing for I4 Commerce. "By removing the need for credit card and bank account numbers from the checkout process, consumers have a safer and more convenient way to pay for goods and services online.''
Bill Me Later is a secure payment method that allows customers to get credit approval for their travel purchase within seconds using basic information. In addition, JetBlue customers using Bill Me Later can take advantage of a special launch offer in which no payments are required for 90 days.


text: Career Pathways Certificates/Roadmaps Programs that are 12-44 credits that acknowledge a specific skill proficiency to help students gain enhanced employment opportunities are considered Career Pathways. These programs are state approved. Certain certificates are eligible for federal financial aid, while others may only be eligible as a segment of an aid-eligible certificate or degree program (Satisfactory Academic Progress for Financial Aid Students). For academic advising, see a CCC Advisor. Limited scholarship options may be available at Scholarships website. CCC Career Pathways Degrees and Certificates are listed below. The roadmaps link to a graphical display of the path from the first certificate of completion to the two-year or four-year degree. The roadmaps also include employment information. The certificate pages contain a list of required courses and prerequisites. Agriculture, Food and Natural Resource Systems Roadmap Certificate Horticulture Roadmap Certificate Irrigation Technician Certificate Plant Health Care Certificate Landscape Roadmap Certificate Water & Environmental Technology Pathways Roadmap Certificate Arts, Information and Communications Roadmap Program Computer Application Support Roadmap Certificate Digital Multimedia Communications Roadmap Certificate Entry Level Multimedia Journalist Certificate Video Production Technician Certificate Web Design & Development Roadmap Certificate Web Design Certificate Business and Management Roadmap Program Integrated Marketing & Promotion Roadmap Certificate Marketing Certificate Project Management Roadmap Certificate Project Management Leadership & Communication Certificate Project Management Tools & Techniques Certificate Retail Management Roadmap Certificate WAFC Retail Management Certificate Health Sciences Roadmap Program Clinical Laboratory Assistant Roadmap Certificate Dental Assistant Roadmap Certificate Emergency Medical Technology Roadmap Certificate Medical Assistant Roadmap Certificate Nursing Roadmap Certificate Human Resources Roadmap Program Early Childhood Education & Family Studies Certificate Human Resource Management Roadmap Certificate Human Resource Management Essentials Certificate Human Services Generalist Certificate Industrial & Engineering Systems Roadmap Program CNC Machining Technician Roadmap Certificate Manufacturing Technology Certificate Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology Roadmap Certificate Electronics Engineering Technology Roadmap Certificate Utility Trade Preparation: Lineworker Certificate Utility Workforce Readiness Certificate Energy Systems Maintenance Technician Roadmap Certificate Renewable Energy Systems Technology Certificate Entry Level Welding Technician Roadmap Certificate Welding Technology Certificate Fire Science Roadmap Certificate Wilderness Survival and Leadership Certificate Microelectronics Systems Technology Roadmap Certificate


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Not quite a Dream but not a Nightmare either: Carnival Dream Cruise Review by booklady26
Overall Member Rating
Not quite a Dream but not a Nightmare either
Destination: Bahamas
Embarkation: New York (Manhattan)
Embarkation: We had car service pick us up at out house at 10:00AM and we were at the pier in by 10:55AM. Can't do that when we have to go the Florida or elsewhere to pick up a cruise. Check-in was quick, but the boarding process was incredibly slow. They began boarding at about 11:20AM. We were in group #10 for boarding and didn't get on More until about 1:30PM. We were told that the problem was that the gangways could not reach deck 3 as they could not handle ships this big. I sailed on the slightly larger QM2 from the same pier and the gangways worked fine. You had to enter the ship on deck 0 which is the crew deck rather than in the main atrium, so we didn't experience the initial "wow" factor that you usually get when first boarding a ship.
By the time we boarded, our staterooms were ready, so we headed there, dropped off our carry-ons and headed to the Lido for lunch.
Stateroom: We had a Spa Balcony Stateroom on Deck 12. There was plenty of room in the cabin with a minibar/fridge, a big desk, couch, small table and lots of storage space. Bathroom was a nice size with just a shower. Balcony had 2 chairs and a small table. It was a bit small but served its purpose well.
Our Cabin attendant, Chanita and her assistant were wonderful. Our rooms were always cleaned when we returned from breakfast. As well as being very efficient, Chanita had a wonderful sense of humor and was always kidding around with us and the other passengers as well.
Warning: Balconies for Spa staterooms on deck 12 are not covered. Although there is a small slanted overhang that affords some privacy from people hanging out on the open deck above, there is no protection from the sun. This was not too much of a problem on this cruise as we only went to Florida and the Bahamas and the sun is not too strong this time of year. But be careful in the Caribbean where the sun is much more intense all year long. Or choose a cabin on Deck 11 which has a fully covered balcony.
Spa accommodations include spa branded robes and slippers. Robes were heavy terrycloth not the usual lightweight waffle weave. We also had small bottles of Elemis bath products (same as HAL provides), however, they were not replenished during the cruise. Showers did have shampoo and shower gel dispensers. Both had a nice fruity smell, which I frankly liked better than the Elemis stuff. We also had unlimited use of the spa facilities (more on that later) and 2 free fitness classes per person for which there is normally a $12 charge (yoga, tai chi, spinning & pilates). Unfortunately, the classes were usually at 8:00AM and that was too early for us.
There is no smoking allowed in Spa accommodations either inside the staterooms or on the balconies. Unfortunately, there was a smoker 2 decks down who liked to hang their cigarette over the balcony railing so smoke drifted up. Thankfully, we were on starboard side. Smoking is only permitted on portside on the open decks. This was pretty much observed by smoking passengers.
The Ship: The Dream is beautiful and well designed for the most part. Some people have commented on the confusing layout, but I don't agree. Although I'm a veteran cruiser, I'm still amazed by the number of people who get totally lost on any ship and still don't know where they're going even on the last day. Most of the public areas are on deck 5 with the 2 main dining rooms on decks 3&4. Pools and casual dining venues are on deck 10. Not too tough in my opinion.
The dEcor is somewhat muted by Carnival standards. Joe Farcus must have taken his meds when he designed it. The colors are easier on the eyes than other Carnival ships and there's not as much glitz and glitter.
I did think that the 2 pools were too small for a ship that size. There were also no Jacuzzis in the main pool area. Those could be found only in the aft pool, adults only Serenity or the on Promenade deck 5 midship. We only went to Serenity since kids usually took up the other hot tubs. Posted signs stated that children were allowed in the hot tubs unless they're wearing diapers so you can't complain about it.
Food - We had an assigned table for 2 for late dinner in the Crimson Dining Room lower level on deck 3. Our servers, Somchai and Kitiya (Miss Kitty) were okay but very friendly. We've had better service on other ships, but we've had worse too.
The food was also hit or miss. Both my husband and I like our red meat medium rare. There were 4 meals where our entrees had to be sent back because they were well done with not even a hint of pink. I can understand once or twice but 4 times is inexcusable. While I never expect 5 star cuisine on any cruise ship, there are usually a couple of meals that are outstanding or at least memorable. But I can't say that about the Dream. The food was good but nothing special.
We did not go to the Chefs Art Steakhouse which carries a $30 per person surcharge. The venue didn't appeal to us. It was tucked away all the way up on deck 12 aft and not terrible impressive. With that kind of fee, the restaurant should have been more spectacular. We ate in the steakhouses on the Legend and Valor and thought both venues were far better.
We ate breakfast and lunch everyday in the Lido, or the Gathering as it's called. This area has gotten the most negative comments that I've read so far, and most with good reason. So here's the good, the bad and the ugly as I see it.
The Good: There was a wide variety to choose from. There were 2 traditional buffet lines, one was the Taste of Nations which featured a different cuisine everyday and the other had more generic offerings. There was also a Mongolian Wok (stir fry), Pasta Bar, burrito bar, Tandoor offering delicious Indian cuisine and a sandwich bar. We tried all stations during our eight days and I thought the food was pretty good everywhere. A grill with the usual burgers, dogs and fire as well as the 24 hour pizza were located outside by the pool.
Breakfast offerings were the usual with omelet stations in both the front and rear sections of the Lido. Lines moved quickly at the omelet stations, often more quickly than the lines for other food.
The Bad: While there seemed to be enough tables, the staff was not very attentive about clearing them. We often saw vacant tables with dirty dishes. People sat down and just pushed them to side while they ate. My husband and I are grazers at a buffet. We prefer to take several small plates with tastes rather than pile everything onto one plate. As a result, we often had a stack of dirty dishes on the table. The staff was just too busy chatting among themselves and often paid very little attention to what they were supposed to be doing.
The Ugly: Lines, lines, lines. The entire area was very poorly designed and cannot handle 3,500 passengers. The salad bars are at the start of the hot buffet lines. If you want to skip the salad and go right to the hot food it was nearly impossible to do so. So you have to wait while all the people ahead of you pick through each leaf of lettuce or search for the perfect tomato when all you want is a piece of fish with some rice and veggies. There should be a separate salad bar like there are most other ships. While the wait was never as long as some people have said (up to 45 minutes), 10-15 minutes was not uncommon during very busy times.
By far the worst line was at the Mongolian Wok station. The food was delicious but we only partook of it twice because the lines were long and very slow moving. At least 15-20 minutes was not uncommon. It's cooked to order, so naturally it's going to take a while. I think the concept is great but it just doesn't work on a ship this size.
The lines for the Tandoor were virtually non-existent. I'm guessing it's because this offered food that many people would consider exotic and they just didn't want to try it. But I thought it was delicious. I wound up eating there most often because of the shorter lines but I also loved the food.
Entertainment: Not great, but good. There were 3 "production" shows. "Get Ready" was based on Motown and Classic R&B music. I love the genre and knew every song, but the show just didn't click for me.
"Extreme Country" was my least favorite. While I'm not a country aficionado, I'm familiar enough with the bigger hits. The only song I recognized was Shania Twain's "Feel Like A Woman". With all the popular country songs out there, they could have done a better job of song selection which would appeal to wider audience rather than just die-hard country fans.
"Dancing in the Streets" was by far my favorite. It was packed with energy and showcased some really good break dancers and amazing acrobats. If I had to tell you not to miss one show, this would be it.
My only complaint about the entertainers was that the lead female singer screamed every song. There were times that I couldn't even understand the words of the songs she was singing.
There was a comedy club featuring 4 different stand up comics during the cruise. They offered one "G" rated show and 2 "adult" shows each night. If you are easily offended by four letter words or adult subject matter, do yourself a favor and DO NOT attend the adult shows. Needless to say, the late shows are no place for children either. Stick to the earlier ones for the families.
They also had the usual jugglers, magicians, hypnotists, etc, but we didn't attend those shows.
The casino wasn't as large as I thought it would be for a ship this size. I love the penny slots and but they are popular so it was tough getting a machine at night or in the afternoons on sea days. Smoking is confined to a small section and it is strictly enforced. The ventilation system is also good making the air pretty breathable.
Onboard entertainment during the day was also rather sparse. We sat out by the main lido pool a few days and it seemed like the only thing offered was trivia. Other cruises have several activities, especially on sea days, but the only thing the Dream had a rather tacky hairy chest contest.
Movies were also only shown in the outdoor Seaside Theater. We had two cool sea days, not unexpected when sailing from NYC, when indoor movies, perhaps in one of the lounges, would have been nice.
Cloud 9 Spa: A well equipped spa is always one of our favorite areas on a ship and the Dream did not disappoint us. In fact we booked the Spa Stateroom because it came with unlimited spa access for both of us which would have come with a $249 price tag for the cruise per couple.
There was a large Thalassotheraphy pool, 2 steam rooms and 2 rooms with those wonderful heated tile loungers. One of the steam rooms was supposed to be "aromatic" but it never had any particular fragrance after the first day.
We never found the spa to be crowded and we did go every afternoon or early evening. I did note that the areas were not looked after very well. Here too, spa attendants seemed to slack off. Unfortunately, some people just leave their towels lying about when they're through rather than placing them in one of the numerous baskets throughout the spa. Attendants rarely picked them up. Dirty glasses were also scattered around.
We didn't partake of any treatments, but there were some good specials toward the end of the cruise, even on sea days. I just always found something else I'd rather do than spend an hour in the morning or midafternoon in the spa.
The gym was very large and well equipped. I didn't go in the mornings as I prefer walking on the promenade deck as the sun is coming up, but I never found a wait for a treadmill in the late afternoon.
Ports: We did not take this cruise for the ports. Port Canaveral, Nassau and Freeport are not high on our list of favorite stops. We did not take shore excursions although many were offered in all ports.
Having been to Disney World and the Kennedy Space Center, we didn't even disembark in Port Canaveral. Instead we spent a relaxing, quiet day on board. we saw the new "Star Trek" movie at the Seaside Theater in the afternoon.
We didn't arrive in Nassau until noon, so we never made it to the beach. We choose to browse the shops along Bay Street and go to the Straw Market.
Freeport was the only new port for us and we were quite pleasantly surprised. The cruise ships dock in the industrial port area, so it's not very scenic and there's nothing to do there. We took a van shuttle over to Port Lucaya, which is the main resort area on the island, at the cost of $5 per person each way. There's a nice, clean beach. Lounge chairs cost $10 each but there are no umbrellas. We spent a very nice few hours soaking up the sun and swimming in the clear, calm waters. In the Lucaya area, there are also several shops, restaurants and a casino. Shuttles back to the ship were plentiful.
Disembarkation: Definitely better than embarkation. We were scheduled to arrive at 9:00AM but we were hours ahead of schedule. We had arranged for a wake up call at 7:00AM but were awakened by an in-cabin announcement at 6:50 which stated that self assist disembarkation was starting. We choose to have our luggage taken off for us and our disembarkation group number was 10. We were off the ship by about 8:45AM and home by 10:15AM.
Overall Experience: We knew that this was one of the first cruises or the ship and there are always glitches that need to be ironed out especially when the ship is very different from any others in the fleet. Service especially needs improvement in most areas. I'm not sure what if anything can be done to improve the Lido.
Although this wasn't among our best cruises, we had an enjoyable time nonetheless. And the price was very right. We felt we received very good value for the price we paid. We are pretty easy going and not very demanding. We try not to let the negatives get in the way of the positives because the pluses always outweigh the minuses. Our favorite saying is "There's no such thing as a bad cruise" and that's why we've enjoyed every one of the 44 we've taken including this one. Less
Published 11/25/09
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After giving my speech this afternoon at the 6th Annual Dubai Food Safety Conference, I was approached by a reporter or Gulf News about my thoughts that the doctor, a… Continue Reading
Monthly Archives: February 2011
Faster Response to Foodborne Outbreaks Makes "Cents"
Three years after a Salmonella outbreak, first linked to United States Tomatoes and then Mexican Peppers, that sickened about 1,500 people and claimed two lives, U.S. epidemiologists have learned that… Continue Reading
Merle's BBQ Restaurant linked to Clostridium perfringens Outbreak
According to press reports, the City of Evanston said Merle's BBQ Restaurant was the source of a recent food borne illness outbreak that caused 30 people to get sick. The… Continue Reading
Dubai Food Safety Conference Starts Sunday
Checking in to the Burj Al Arab at 11:00 PM Friday after a flight from Seattle to Atlanta and Atlanta to Dubai, left me a few more hours to tweak… Continue Reading
Find Your Health Department to Report Food Poisoning or Foodborne Illness
Most state health departments encourage consumers to report food poisoning incidents to local health departments. Food Safety News has provided links (see below) to pages on state health department or… Continue Reading
Call for Nominations for up to four state or local health or state agricultural department employees to attend IAFP 2011
The IAFP Foundation, through a contribution from Marler Clark, will fully support travel, hotel and registration expenses for up to four state or local health or state agricultural department employees… Continue Reading
Corrections and Contributions sought for Foodborne Illness Outbreak Database
Welcome to outbreakdatabase.com, a searchable database of illness outbreaks caused by one or more of the following 1. consumption of contaminated foods or beverages, 2. exposure to animals, 3. exposure… Continue Reading
Food Safety – the "Rest of the Story, " or "Show me the Money?"
Michael T. Osterholm, Ph.D., M.P.H., (a.k.a., the god of food safety epidemiology) wrote today in the New England Journal of Medicine – "Foodborne Disease in 2011 — The Rest of… Continue Reading
The Epidemiology of Foodborne Illness with Patti Waller of Marler Clark
It is great to have the best and most experienced foodborne illness epidemiologist in any law firm in the United States a few doors down the hall.
The 2008 Outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul infections linked to Tomatoes … errr … Peppers
If there ever was a reason (in addition to the risk of bio-terrorism) to apply more resources to national and state surveillance of bacterial outbreaks, the 2008 Salmonella outbreak that… Continue Reading


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« Welcome back! | Main | BEL Will Be Closed August 8 8:30-1:00 »
April 1, 2008
BEL Salutes Carissa Holler
This afternoon, Bellog has learned that BEL's own Carissa Holler was named as one of List of Teachers Ranked as Excellent." Associate Dean and Finance Department Chair David Ikenberry made the announcement via e-mail. Carissa taught a half credit course in the Finance Department called Financial Information Systems to MBA's and MSF's.
Congratulations, Carissa!
Posted by Becky at April 1, 2008 2:25 PM Posted to BEL Salutes


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Vacant land for sale. Approved for 12,000 +/- SF retail or office building. Liquor license available. 188.6 +/- feet of frontage on busy Route 38. Surrounded by major retailors and in-between the Cherry Hill and Moorestown malls. Surrounding retailers include Macy's Furniture, Ethan Allen and Carrabba's Italian Grill. Easy access to Philadelphia and area bridges.
Listing Area: Maple Shade Twp
The data relating to real estate for sale on this website appears in part through the TREND Internet Data Exchange program, a voluntary cooperative exchange of property listing data between licensed real estate brokerage firms in which Callaway Henderson Sotheby's International Realty participates, and is provided by TREND through a licensing agreement and identified with the TREND IDX Logo. Some properties which appear for sale on this website may no longer be available because they are under contract, have sold or are no longer being offered for sale. Some real estate firms do not participate in IDX and their listings do not appear on this website.Some properties listed with participating firms do not appear on this website at the request of the seller.
2017 TREND, All Rights Reserved. Information Deemed Reliable But Not Guaranteed.


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Welcome to our new blog on the subject of gastric bands and obesity. The aim of this blog is to encourage people who have had gastric bands to share their experiences with people who might be considering such bariatric surgery.
Over the last few years bariatric surgery (weight loss) has become far more common as a strategy to fight obesity.
So how does a gastric band work? Actually the principle of the gastric band is very simple. It involves the surgical implant of a band which reduces the size of the stomach. This means that a person who has had a gastric band feels full more quickly than before and will eat less and this will lead to weight loss.
To help our readers understand what it is like to have a gastric band we would love it if you could share your experiences here on the blog. Anything you have to say about weight loss surgery will be really useful but you might want to think about the following questions:-
- Have you had a gastric band? If so what was the surgery like and how successful was the operation?
- If you have not had a gastric band would you ever considering having the implant?
- What other strategies have you used to lose weight? How successful were they?
- Would you recommend the operation to other people?
Please feel free to use the comments box below to share you thoughts and experiences about weight loss surgery. Please feel free to include any links which you think other readers may find of interest.
Many thanks in advance


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bnjmn - hummingbird ep - rush hour - vinylRHM 005 - 71282 - eu12'' - €7.99
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BNJMN pops up with another splendid and relevant EP.. featuring a remix from Legowelt/Xosar combo, Xamiga. TIP!
Artistic inspiration can come in many forms. On his latest 12 for Rush Hour his third for the label since 2012 BNJMN was inspired by one of the wonders of nature, namely the curious combination of speed and grace that is the humble hummingbird.
I was really interested in how hummingbirds have much faster wing speeds to other birds, so they can hover and fly slowly, he explains. This seemed to tie in with some ideas Id been playing around with, to create tracks that are fast and accelerated, but could also sound slow.
Hummingbird, the title track of an impressive four-track EP thats noticeably cleaner, crisper and sharper than his most recent outing for Rush Hour, 2012s Unknown 2, captures this idea perfectly. Propelled forwards by a lone, 140 BPM kick drum, its waves of crystalline synthesizers and picturesque melodies seem to gracefully hover above the stripped-back rhythm. Its intoxicating, exciting and calming in equal measure, whilst retaining BNJMNs usual dancefloor punch.
At a club recently someone came up to me after Id played Hummingbird and said he didnt realise how fast he was dancing till afterwards, BNJMN says. I was really pleased with that, because Im fascinated with how the energy and tempo of a track can feel different depending on the environment youre in, and how youre feeling.
He took the same approach with the EPs other original tracks. Slow Wave, with its relentless sequenced arpeggio, tumbling melodies and sludgy groove, performs the same trick of the ear, thanks in no small part to clever combinations of fast and slow elements. The melancholic CRVD, with its mournful chords and darting, techno-influenced grooves, is similarly schizophrenic.
The EP concludes with its most straightforward dancefloor moment, an inspired remix from Xamiga (AKA Xosar and Legowelt). Decidedly cosmic like layered, melody-driven analogue techno beamed down from a distant galaxy it delivers a deeper, hazier alternative to BNJMNs pin-sharp original.


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John Brady, Chevron Professor of Chemical Engineering and professor of mechanical engineering at Caltech, will receive the 2012 Fluid Dynamics Priz
Providing a possible new route to hydrogen-gas production, researchers at Caltech have devised a series of chemical reactions that allows them, for the first time, to split water in a nontoxic, noncorrosive way, at relatively low temperatures.
Caltech senior Emmet Cleary has been chosen to receive a Fulbright scholarship to conduct research at the University of Adelaide in Australia during the next academic year. The Australian-American Fulbright Commission selected Cleary—based on academic merit and leadership potential—as one of just 12 American students to receive the distinction this year.
Atmospheric researcher John H. Seinfeld, the Louis E. Nohl Professor and professor of chemical engineering at Caltech, has been named one of two winners of this year's Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement, an honor regarded as the top prize of environmental science, environmental health, and energy.
With $6 million of funding from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Caltech has established the Chemistry of Cellular Signaling Center. The new center will build on the Institute's successes at the interface of chemistry and biology, and will focus on determining how complex systems of molecules interact to create the pathways that regulate the lives of cells and allow them to respond to their environments.
Caltech senior Arvind Kannan has been selected to receive a Churchill Scholarship, which will fund his graduate studies at the University of Cambridge for the next academic year. Kannan, a chemical engineering major and English minor, was one of only 14 students selected to receive the award this year.
Rustem Ismagilov, the new John W. and Herberta M. Miles Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Caltech, believes in the ability of science and technology to address significant societal problems—from the spread of HIV and drug resistance to bacterial imbalances in the gut.


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Everlight announced its Chip-on-Board (COB) LED series for general lighting replacement applications. To replace 40W and 60W incandescent A-bulbs, the company created an LED to address heat dissipation, color shift over time and temperature, light distribution and cost. Everlight's COB LED series is a MCPCB-substrate based multi-chip solution that touts a >95 lm/W at 3000K CCT and >80 CRI. Less layers of thermal resistance result in lower overall junction temperature. A new patent pending Everlight technology is able to address the Hot/Cold Factor, the color uniformity as related to change in temperature. From 25°C to 85°C, the COB LED can control CCT shift to within 200K CCT for all wattages. A large single light emitting source means less diffusion needed to achieve high uniformity and light distribution.
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The battle for the bathroom is rife across Britain according to new research from energy company E.ON1. Nearly two million households (11%) are hosting arguments with partners or housemates about the amount of time spent in the bathroom2.
Men are most likely to be irritated by lengthy lathering, with a fifth accusing their partner of showering for too long compared to 15% of women. Despite this, the modern man is actually just as likely to take his time lathering up as the ladies - men shower for nine minutes on average and women just over at nine and a half.
Lather lovers
Although the study found the daily shower is a thing of the past for almost half (49%) of the population, the UK is still a nation of lather-lovers with bathing Brits spending nearly 100 hours in the bath and shower every year3. Making time to really enjoy our scrub down, we now favour quality over quantity, with the average shower taking just over nine minutes and each soak in the bath almost 20 minutes4.
The study of British bathing habits shows that it's the younger generation who appreciate a lengthy soak, with those aged 18 - 24 taking up to 25% longer in the bath5 and twice as long in the shower6 compared to those in their later years. As a nation however, we could save more than £207 per household on our energy bills each year by cutting just two minutes off our shower time.
Contributing to time spent in the bathroom, we're not shy when it comes to belting out the shower ballads, with one in four (26%) listening to music and one in seven (15%) singing to themselves.
The research also showed that:
Top water-warblers
When it comes to musical genre, the UK is overwhelmingly mainstream as more than half (55%) opt for pop or chart classics. For the slightly edgier among us, rock came second, with hip-hop and RnB in third place.
Beverley Maguire, energy efficiency expert at E.ON, comments: "It's clear the battle for the bathroom is a hot topic for many households. Many of us are guilty of spending too long in the shower. We'd urge people to think about speeding up their shower time which might help family harmony at the same time as cutting energy use, and also to also find out about the other small changes that can help cut energy waste."
Choosing your scrub-down soundtrack wisely is one way to keep your shower time to a minimum whilst still enjoying the moment.
E.ON suggests the following song combinations to help the UK reduce lather-time by two minutes, to around seven minutes long:
E.ON's top tips for saving energy and cash in the bathroom:
For more ways to save energy, please visit eonenergy.com.
Notes to editors:
71% of 263,000,000 = 18,673,000
85% of households have a shower. 85% of 18,673,000 = 15,872,050
11% of 15,872,050 = 1,745,925
9.3 x 5.2 = 48.36mins
19.5 x 3.4 = 66.3 mins
= 114.66 mins in the bath and shower each week
114.66 x 52 weeks in the year = 99.37 hours
•7. Current UK shower heating cost per year:
Litres used in a year per person = Number of litres used per minute x average time spent in the shower x average number of showers per week x days in the year.
10.8 litres per minute * 9.3 minutes per shower on average * 0.7 showers per day * 365 days per year = 25,662.42 litres.
25,662.42 litres requires 993.94 kWh gas (source: E.ON). Gas unit rate = 4.33p/kWh (source: E.ON). 993.94 kWh gas supplied * 4.33p/kWh = £43.04
Shower cost per year with two minute off average shower time:
10.8 litres per minute * 7.3 minutes per shower * 0.7 showers per day * 365 days per year = 20,143.62 litres.
20,143.62 litres requires 780.19 kWh gas (source: E.ON). 780.19 kWh gas supplied * 4.33p/kWh = £33.78
Total shower heating cost saving per person = £9.26
Average number of people per UK household is 2.33 (Communities & Local Government, 2010).
£9.26 x 2.33 = £21.58
About E.ON:
For more information contact:
Jag Kahlon on 02476 181 308 or firstname.lastname@example.com


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From the deck of the vessel, near Taku Inlet, forty-five glaciers may be counted.
Taku wasn't able to visit me so often, for he had his mother and young brothers to kill for.
The Taku River enters the head of the inlet a little to the east of the glaciers, coming from beyond the main coast range.
The day on which I crossed the lake to Taku City was most glorious.
Again Taku shook his head, and gazed thoughtfully into the fire.
As to the Taku Forts, I believe they will be taken just as easily as they were last time.
Nance and Quabee sat in the bottom, while Martin and Taku used the paddles.
It is either that or else troops must have come up from Taku.
We know that the Taku Forts have been taken, and the Chinese may be willing to hold their hands until they see the result.
I wish you would tell me, Rex said, all about the capture of the Taku Forts.


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Flattering and breathtakingly beautiful, Rebecca Taylor's clothes enhance the women who wear her cunning collection. With perfect prints, great knits, and flirty dresses, Rebecca Taylor's apparel collection can fit into any contemporary woman's closet.
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March 31st (Noon):
Today marks the two year "anniversary" of Nicole's disappearance from the Cairo Hotel in Hama, Syria.
We have refused to give up the search. To make this clear to Syrian officials and police (and Canadian officials), and to follow up on leads, Gary and my mother returned to Syria last week. I have been receiving nightly emails just to keep in touch and do some research for them, but they're not sending too many details so far. I will be updated in person upon their return. It is very tiring for everyone when they are in Syria - the constant stress and activity in a strange place is difficult. We are hopeful that this visit will provide answers.
When my mother returns in a few days, I will fill everyone in on what has happened.
Some volunteers continue to inspire. I needed some Arabic translated early yesterday and had it done and confirmed within a few hours with the help of family friends and volunteers who I have been out of touch with for half a year. Another set of volunteers has cast fresh eyes on the search and are diligently investigating various scenarios and contacting people for us to ask questions and see what new information they might be able to find. And as I look through old emails for my mom, I am continually reminded by all the help provided by people around the world. It's very touching.
March 27th (Noon):
Some more reading of the 2008 Lonely Planet Syria guide reveals another mention of Nicole:
Although public transport doesn't go all the way out to Qasr ibn Wardan, it is still relatively easy to get there under your own steam if you're happy to get a lift with locals. Take a minibus from Hama to Al-Hamra (SŁ20, 45 minutes). From Al-Hamra you have to hitch the remaining 20 km; although there's not much traffic going this way, whatever there is will most likely stop and take you on. You shouldn't have to wait much longer than 20 minutes or so for a ride out and about the same for the ride back.
While catching a ride with locals is not unusual in Syria, locals no longer recommend that single women travellers hitch in this area, since a young Canadian backpacker sadly went missing here in 2007. It's worth noting that the young woman was the first foreigner ever to disappear in Syria, and it's not yet clear if she even disappeared on the way here.
Sarouj and Twalid Dabaghein are 50 km and 53km from Hama respectively. The Cairo and Riad hotels in Hama both include a visit to the beehive houses as part of their organized trips out to Qasr ibn Wadan (see p164) You can also hire a car and driver or a taxi for around SŁ600.
They've summed up the situation accurately. Other solo female travellers have done this route without a problem (I spoke with several a few weeks after Nicole disappeared) and we're not certain she ever made it that far before something happened. It saddens me that events like this make people less trusting of one another. Hitching and helping others is very common in Africa and the Middle East from my experience, and you don't want visitors forced to stay in tour buses and cars all the time without meeting local people.
Apparently the map in the 2008 LP still has the mini-bus station at the wrong location. Strange.
As you may have noticed, I've re-worked the format of the blog to help answer common questions and clarify what's happened. It's an easy way of feeling like I'm doing something. My mother and step-father are doing all the heavy lifting these days, I'm just posting to the blog and reading the relatively infrequent emails that come in.
March 23rd (Morning):
Click on the thumbprint below to see a map of Hama from the Lonely Planet (LP) Syria Guidebook (second edition). I have marked some relevant locations.
For a clearer view of the actual streets here is the Google Earth satellite image.
To orient yourself on the maps, the Citadel is the big green mountain in the northwest and the river should let you match the two (you may have to scroll the Google Earth map to the southeast). To get to the mini-bus station (which LP has at the wrong location) Nicole would have crossed the nearby bridge and headed northeast. By going directly north on the main road, she passes a park and then a construction/abandoned area on the west, but lots of little shops on the east side. North of the river, the first street heading east is an open air market with lots of people. On the Google Earth map, the mini-bus pick-up area is at the intersection at the bottom left corner of the park in the northeast with all the circles in it. The mini-buses are parked in a line on the street and once the first one is full, it leaves and the next one starts filling up. It's a 10-15 minute walk from the Hotel and Nicole loves walking. Given the crowds, it seems increasingly unlikely that Nicole ever made to the mini-bus station or else someone would have seen her.
I have also marked the Internet Cafe where Nicole attempted to send out emails the night before. It's just around the corner, 1-2 blocks away. We are presuming she went to that particular Internet Cafe because a pamphlet was found in her gear. When Gary and I were there, we stayed at the Noria Hotel (#32 on the LP map) and there was a second cafe right behind it.
Speaking of the Lonely Planet, the third edition of the Syria guide was released in 2008 and on page 239 it says:
While Syria is a very safe country for female travelers, the disappearance of a solo female traveler who was staying in Hama in 2007 serves to highlight the dangers of traveling alone in any country.
A reader mentioned the recently released movie "Taken" involving the sex trade and young western girls being kidnapped (in Paris, not the Middle East). I watched it last night and it's similar to the movie "Trade" (2007) that someone suggested last year. Both are disturbing in their similarities, suggesting that the sale of women and children is a known and prevalent practice. I don't recommend that my mother watch either, as it will only upset her. "Taken", despite various plot holes, was particulary perturbing as it shows how the girls are immediately drugged and addicted, and suggests that if they're not found within a few days, they'll never be found. I've always thought that no one could hold Nicole for long without her fighting her way free, but now I'm not so sure.
We continue to hope that her disappearance does not relate to the sex trade. Foreigner are just too risky to grab, especially in a country like Syria where there are so many other easier local targets. With no way to readily investigate the sex trade, we continue to direct our limited resources elsewhere until we see definite evidence that kidnapping and possible removal from Syria is what happened.
March 18th (Evening):
I had plans for a big update today - images of Hama with locations of key points of interest. Various technical difficulties have ended that dream, along with a distinct lack of energy - I'm exhausted tonight for some reason.
On Saturday I was very out of sorts for no particular reason as well. But then my wife pointed out that it was two years since we had seen Nicole off in Jordan and I'm thinking it might have been related - nothing else comes to mind.
A reader linked me to the search for Laura Archer, the Canadian who was kidnapped in Darfur (Sudan) earlier this week. In a rare case of good news and quick resolution, she was released. It was a pleasant surprise to see that.
The links to past articles weren't working consistently last week - I'm not sure how long that had been a problem. This has been fixed as of last night so readers can once again read old entries.
Given my lack of energy, I'm not going to update tonight, but I may get an update in on the weekend or Monday.
March 11th (Evening):
As of this coming Sunday, it will have been two years since I last saw Nicole as we parted in Jordan - her for Syria (and Lebanon and back to Syria) and me back to Canada. Having just re-read what I wrote last year around this time, I think I said all that needed to be said then (link is down below, though it's not working for me right now - the thrills of technology).
Discussions continue with the Foreign Affairs and the Canadian embassy in Syria regarding a return visit by my mother and Gary. Our hope is that the Canadian government continues to support us in our search for Nicole as they have in the past, particularly on the ground in Syria where we need it the most. As our search lengthens, the turnover at the embassy increases (most people are only posted for 2-3 years) and it's difficult to keep everyone engaged and enthusiastic, especially when we are several thousand miles away and communications often have to pass through a number of people.
The Syrian government has indicated that they're still very interested in finding out what happened. High level officials continue to meet with Hama officials and we've been recently told of additional police activity that we were unaware of - leads being followed, ads being placed in newspapers. As someone who likes to know everything that's going on, it has not only been difficult to let my mother and step-father take over some key roles, it's difficult to handle having stuff happen in Syria that I don't know about. Of course, I'd rather that things were happening that I didn't know about than knowing that nothing is going on. I can imagine that the Syrian police at times are thinking, "who is this random Canadian (family) who feels he (they) should know all about our investigations and is trying to tell us what to do? Just let us do our jobs the way we know how...".
At this point we're looking to generate a list of key questions/avenues of investigation that we're hoping can be answered/pursued when mom visits Syria, and from there decide what to do next. But not tonight, I'm too tired.
March 4th (Evening):
I was dreading another update tonight but then I spoke with mom for a bit after sending some emails relating to Nicole. She was full of things to talk about that I hadn't thought of which definitely leads me to believe that I'm zoning out a bit on this. Not so good.
A few weeks ago, mom flew out to Vancouver and spent some time with Gary and met with the RCMP. Nicole's case is being run from the British Columbia Major Crimes unit because that's where she lived, so while we talk to the RCMP by phone and email, and they've occasionally visited us in Toronto, we don't meet face-to-face too frequently.
While in Vancouver, Gary and mom had the upsetting task of going through Nicole's items and figuring out what to do with them. Mom flew back with the last of Nicole's negatives and photos, as well as her journals and some select items of clothing. As anyone who has a lost a close loved one knows, it's not easy to go through their belongings.
Right after she returned from Vancouver, Mom was notified of an extra bank account of Nicole's that we didn't know about that was going inactive. There were no leads - no transactions or anything during the relevant time - but once again mom had to visit a bank and explain the situation. They weren't really engaged in the conversation until mom mentioned where she went missing and it turns out the bank manager was from Aleppo, Nicole next destination in Syria once she was done in Hama. It's surprising how many Syrians you will find in your day-to-day life once you start talking about Nicole, and universally, they all want to help.
An old friend of Nicole's contacted me this week. He had not heard of her disappearance until now and was very shocked, as everyone is when they first find out. It is so clear in his emails how important Nicole is to him that it really touched me. As I've said before, Nicole had a big impact on a lot of people.
In international news, Hilary Clinton announced yesterday that the United States will soon dispatch a pair of senior envoys to Syria for discussion with the government. I don't know if this is good, bad or irrelevant to what we're trying to do. I'd love to get on the agenda, but not being American, and given the many larger issues facing the two countries, I don't see it happening. If you happen to have contacts in the U.S. State Department that could help, give 'em a call!
A real surprise to me tonight was that mom had to remind me that two years ago this week I was in Egypt with Nicole. I know we're coming on two years since Nicole disappeared, but I tend to forget that I was in the Middle East with her just a few weeks earlier. Demonstrating the risks of the area, another friend of mine was in Egypt late last month and on her way back through Cairo to fly home, as you may have seen in the newspapers, a bomb blew up in the market. There were some frantic emails flying around for a while before reports confirmed that no Canadians were injured. These sorts of things are so rare, but so powerful that it can turn you away from an entire country or region of the world.
Return to LiveJournal


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To wonder what you all think? How soon after giving birth is it reasonable to expect yourself to diet/get in shape/start a rigorous new fitness regime?(51 Posts)
Expecting our second baby soon. Never lost the baby weight the first time and have to definitely shift weight soon. Our second baby is due at the end of July and I would like to be at least a couple of dress sizes smaller by Christmas.
I know I can cut back and stay on the straight and narrow immediately after birth. But cake and coffee and catching up are all too often too tempting. I am much better when being really focused and full on with exercise.
When realistically do you think it is fair to expect this of yourself?
My ds2 is six months old in a couple of weeks. I'll be starting the diet etc then
I exercise from immediately but dont really need to watch food intake as I dont tend to overeat. Depends how far gone you are as if near end might be too late to start but I find it you exercise a lot during pregnancy then you can just carry on.
My ds is nearly 11 weeks and I've tried and failed to get started on losing the baby weight several times already.The sleep deprivation and breastfeeding hunger combined with the fact that everyone brings me cake and I have no willpower means I am stuck in a cycle of failure and feeling miserable about it, which chips away my motivation further. I'm just trying to find a couple of nice outfits in my current size to help me feel better andonce I am less exhausted and handling baby and toddler better, I'll concentrate on my diet more. I am tryt to eat plenty of veg, drink lots of water etc now to make me feel better in general, but not really cutting back in other areas!
I think when they start sleeping through the night is what I'd go for next time. Before then I feel like I need to snack to combat tiredness.
If I am honest I wanted to get back to normal weight quickly. Once past the 8 week mark (as advised) I started light exercise.
It is hard as you are knackered, but it does make you feel better.
It is harder after the second one!
I compensated for the huge lack of sleep, post c sec recovery and exhaustion of looking after a baby and a 3 yo with carbs. I also had a lot of low level illness for 6 months after dc2 was born - tooth abscess, tonsillitis types of things. I couldn't have countenanced diet or exercise for several months.
When dd was 11 months old ds (just 4) asked me if I was having another baby. When I told him j wasn't, he asked shy I was so fat.....
I joined Slimming World and started the Couch to 5k. Took me 4 months to lose 3 stone. DS's comment spurred me into action, but I couldn't have done anything before then.
I wouldn't even remotely entertain the idea until at least 6 weeks. If you're intending to really go for it, with heavy exercise and calorie restrictions, I'd think at least 12 weeks or after you've finished breast feeding, whichever is later.
TBH, it's massively harder to find motivation after the second baby than it was after the first, for me at least. The tiredness is just sooo much more crippling, probably because there aren't the natural breaks that you get with the first, when they nap etc. The need for sugar, just to get through the day, was huge until at least 4 months!
Just take it easy on yourself, see how it goes, before forcing yourself to try and meet targets
5 years (or was that just me?)
How to say this without sounding sanctimonious.
Just don't take it that way, it's really not how I mean it.
I ate healthy while I was pregnant so that DD would be healthy
with the occasional soda. When she was born I just didn't go back to junk food and kept eating healthy, and was back to prebaby weight by 6 weeks. Coffee isn't fattening unless you get mochas, and you can politely decline cakes, by saying your body needs healthy food to heal and get back on track (which isn't a lie). Or if you are breast feeding use that as an excuse. You can buy fresh fruit cups at coffee shops.
But exercising will really depend on how much damage the baby causes on the way out. You'll know when you can start moving around and being active again.
I think there are so many factors to consider, that it's not a good idea to set yourself a strict target.
I put on 21lbs and 28lbs when pg - this was not a huge amount and was easy to lose. I was back in the gym after 6 weeks which helped. I exclusively breastfed but think that didn't help me lose weight.
I have friends that put on almost 60lbs, so obviously found it took a long time to lose the weight. But it takes 9 months to gain all the weight - I wouldn't start to worry until 9 months later.
For me it was around when my baby had reached 7/8 months when they started to sleep better before that I was too exhausted.
That is exactly what happened with me after pfb ds was born! It is soooo very difficult.
With pfb ds I was able to go for lots of long, long walks. But now he is a toddler and we will have a newborn the walks we go on are slooooow, at a toddlers pace. I guess I will have to get the fitness dvds out!
My DS is 13 weeks and I have no idea what I weigh.
I know what I was pre-pregnancy and what I was at 39 weeks pregnant but that's it.
I have no desire to weigh myself - I prefer to live in ignorant bliss
Exercising and a healthy diet is the last thing on my mind
Message withdrawn at poster's request.
I walked endless miles with DS to get him to nap. Breastfed on demand and lost baby weight and more in a few months.
That said I couldn't have faced dieting, the sleep deprivation has given me such a sweet tooth. Now I'm back at work I try to just pack salads/fruit so the days when I'm
not bf during day I'm watching what I eat.
I went to a mum and baby Pilates class from 10weeks and found that really helped my core strength, especially after having a section. Also did a few mum and buggy classes which were good to get up a sweat.
Prior to having baby I found limiting my portions really helped, I bought a smaller dinner plate and tried do drink lots of water too.
Good luck.
It depends how you feel ,doesn't it?. I didn't do any vigorous fitness routines, but I didn't eat lots of cake and I started going for walks after a few days. I don't like being overweight and I didn't want to just sit on the sofa either.
I lose weight naturally after my births, but with my 1st I was left with about an extra stone, so I went on a 'diet ' after a few months and lost it quite quickly. I didn't need to after my 2nd and 3 rd births.
I are anything and everything when pregnant with dc3 and put on 5 stone . I rejoined slimming works when he was 2 weeks old (they are supported something to do with midwives whilst bf) and I lost the 5 stone by the time he was 5 months. Helped by walking school/preschool run 6 tines a day half hour each way as due to sight problems not allowed to drive. Was quite amusing I had pre-op when he was 5 months at the eye hospital I caused panic that the scales were malfunctioning. That was until I pointed out that u had been 6 months pregnant when I had my last operation
I'm currently 9 weeks post birth with my 2nd - have done a couple of short runs and am trying to watch what I eat but I have also developed a bit of a sweet tooth! My little one breastfeeds a lot which I think is increasing my appetite. I used to run around 5k a few times a week but I think I have a mild prolapse now, so I'm having to keep the distances in check and concentrate to exercising my pelvic floor instead! Very annoying considering the baby shot out really! But I had a chronic cough throughout pregnancy which well and truly Knackered it. I've got about a stone to shift.... Will give myself until Christmas...
All depends how birth goes and how you feel. Do it when you are ready, do not worry about anyone else. Go at your pace.
For me what made a huge difference was breastfeeding and walking everywhere with the buggy at a brisk pace. Always have water and fruit with you. Simple, no rocket science but really works. Sleep anywhere and anytime you can!
Three months. I was an avid exerciser during third pregnancy and went back to the gym at about 8 weeks (intense exercise...kickboxing and advanced step). It was too soon . I got really depressed and got much too thin (was breastfeeding). I'd go for gentle running/walks if I had to do it again. If you're nursing, your body is working round the clock. Don't go crazy on top of that .
the rule is 9months on 9 months off and if its not off by 9months diet
I have always kept fit and I went back to the gym after 4 weeks post ELCS. I had consultant and GP approval before going back.
I agree with those that say go back when you feel ready. I had to go back because I started feeling depressed because I wasn't exercising. It wasn't about weight loss for me. it was more about the endorphin rush.
I put weight on with ds1 and started losing it as soon as I could. I can't remember exactly when but I was back to normal when he was 4 or 5 months. I used keep fit videos and was very determined. I bf which I am sure helped me loose weight a lot faster.
I was 25 and fairly sporty. I don't think it matters if it takes a lot longer though - it depends on how you feel and what your priorities are. You can't plan it.
I was much more careful not to put on too much with the rest of my kids.
50 years.
Yup, that should do it
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text:
UK Immigration Law
Have UK Immigration Law Questions? Get Answers Now.
Can you confirm what visa she is applying for please - -visitor's visa?
Did she travel to the UK and then was refused entry?
Kind regards.
My Girlfirend has been refused twice into the UK; She is an Americn
The first time was die to a ripped page in the passport. The people in Manchester were very nasty and treated her like a criminal. They implied as did the guys in the US to not say anything about having a relationship and so when asked my girlfiend said we were colleagues and she was over attneding some business
When I was called I did say she was my girlfriend and of course that conflicted with her story.
She was refused and sent back. I travelled back to the USA and within days we got another passport and the US guys officials were very kind but did mention about the relationship and best no to mention it again
My girlfriend has been in a few times since and although she has been allowed in
Last week she flew in and was stopped again. She said that she was my partner and that she was over for recreation. She had a return flight back for three weeks time
I received the call for the officer and he said that my girlfriend had mentioned she was doing to some work with me, so I replied just a ltiile work with me for admin purposes as she had her own business
He asked what the relationship and I rplied we are very close friends. He siad she memntioned you are dating and said yes we were. he asked why we had conflicting stories and I told him why
I was trying to protect my girlfriend after the last time and tried not to confirm either way
This time the officer was much better and told us that this does happen many times and he is not sure why the US tell their people to not mention relationships
I said he did believe the story but the fact my girlfriend had not worked since June they were concerned she would have no reason no to go back to the US
She had a flight booked to return, a rented accomodation and also a cat to tend too so this was never the case
She was returned home the next day because she could not prove the money aspect, although my story would not have helped that is for sure
We were told she would be better to get a visitor visa and so all the issues would be dealt with before coming to the US
They have also said she cannot come into the UK for 6 months
What I would like to see is there anythong we can do to reduce the 6 months and what do we have to do to satisfy to ensure we do get the visa
Thank you for your time
Thanks for your reply.
For a start, you have both got to stop misrepresenting your relationship. This speaks to dishonesty and the UKBA will immediately become adversarial and resistant to your attempts to secure a visa.
There is little you can do to reduce the 6 month time barr I'm afraid, they are allowed to do that where they have found defects in the application which suggest an element of dishonesty.
If you wish to apply for a visitor's visa after this time then you are free to do so. Given your troubles I would apply directly to the British embassy for a visa rather than travel to the UK in the hope of obtaining one upon port of entry in the normal way.
The criteria is as follows:-
She should state the above and provide documentary evidence to support her eligibility. For 1 & 2 she should submit evidence of her departure and return flights, evidence of her continuing accommodation in the US (eg. tenancy agreement or copy title deeds if she owns her own property. For 3 She should submit bank statements showing the money she shall have available to her whilst she is here. For 4 she should state explicitly that she is aware of this prohibition and will observe it.
To assist you should see a local solicitor and ask them to prepare a sponsorship declaration for you. This would corroborate the above, refer to you both and stipulate that the visit is not intended as a prelude to an application for a permanent stay. It should also state that you are to provide her accommodation and will be responsible for any unexpected costs should these occur and your girlfriend can't cover it. Send this to your girlfriend so that she can submit it with her application. It should costs around £50_Vat .
If this is useful please kindly click accept so that I may be rewarded for my time. You will be free to ask follow up questions.
Kind regards,
The fact that sometime in the future we will get engaged and in time married, how will this affect things
We are thinking of having a home in the UK and the US?
We were not being dishonest but saying what we were told by the authorities
PLease advise?
Thank you
Well, it seems they have taken that view of the situation rightly or wrongly. You can explain it by saying that you were both confused about the situation and misunderstood your responsibilities.
If you get engaged and wish to marry in the UK then she would have to apply for a fiance visa,. The criteria for this is as follows:-
Suggested supporting documents in brackets.
The situation as it stands will only effect her application for a fiance visa if they maintain that she is not of good character. If they reject the application then you will be free to appeal and get a fairer hearing of your evidence in front of an immigration judge.
I am going offline for a few hours now.
Hope this clarifies, if so please click accept I will continues to answer your follow up questions for free.
Kind regards,.
Hi Alistair,
Sorry it's taken me some time to reply, I've had connectivity issues over the weekend.
There is little point in applying now, you would be applying in the hope that they make a mistake and do not notice that she is not to apply within 6 months.
When she does apply after 6 months she should apply before she travels to the UK embassy for a visitor's visa.
Here rights to apply for visas in other European countries will be unaffected by this.
Please click accept.
Final Question
you have been most helpful
Is it best to apply in the UK or the US for the visa?
Thank you
It would be your girlfriend who would be applying and she would be in the USA so it would have to be from there directly to the nearest UK embassy.
Please click accept.
I know I did write this but I cannot find the answer too
My girlfirend will be coming to Europe with me, but she is concerned about the cross in her passport which clearly shows she has been denied access
She is worried that she will be refused and asked to go back to the US again
During the trip she will be entering a number of countires in Europe, namely Germany, Holland, Spain and Italy
Is there a chance this could happen?
What do we need to do to minimise this?
If she gets a new passport will the fact she got refused entry to the UK be flagged up even if the new passport does not have the cross in it?
I know it will happen in the UK regardless and we will apply for the appropriate visa when required
Any help you can give me would be appreciated


text:
How strange and wonderful and full of surprises life is. For instance, just last week I was an ordinary petless PWD on shots. And look at me now: I'm a Pumper with a Cat!
Meet Mystique, the one-year-old female calico who joined our family just a few days ago. She's confident and playful, outgoing yet calm, patient with grabby little hands while always on the lookout for a twitching shoelace to attack. She's a cuddly lap cat and a sputtery plaything for the kiddos all in one. And I, Mother of the House, am now saddled with her for at least the next 10 years. (Stratch yet another item off the list of things I swore I'd never do; I'm starting to revere the old axiom "never say never.") Good thing I like her so much.
Truth be told, we almost had the girls convinced that a bunny would be fun -- the kind that stays in its cage most of the time and never claws at your elegant microfiber sofas. But the "bunnies" at the SPCA were oversized, immobile beasts that Mom could not imagine cleaning up after (think Were-Rabbit). And then we saw Mystique and fell in love. All of us.
So now it's her and me. She and I. Curious and busy. Hangin' out in my home-based office all day. She loves my lap... doesn't mind my jerky movements when the phone rings, or the incessant clacking of the keyboard. I'm just darn glad I waited for the tube-free OmniPod, so Ms. Kitty doesn't direct her playfulness to my insulin source. Funny how these things work out.


text:
by Staff Writers
New York (AFP) Feb 11, 2013
Apple is testing a watch-like device which could perform some smartphone functions, US media reports said Monday.
The New York Times reported that the maker of iPhones and iPads is experimenting with a curved-glass device, which could incorporate a bendable display glass developed by US manufacturer Corning.
The Times, which quoted sources who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the device would likely use Apple's iOS platform which is incorporated on the iPhone and iPad.
Although details were not clear, the report said the watch could be used for mobile payments using Apple's Passbook software.
The Wall Street Journal said, meanwhile, that Apple has discussed such a device with its manufacturing partner Foxconn of Taiwan as it explores product categories beyond the smartphone and tablet.
The device, if confirmed, would be part of an emerging category of wearable devices which can connect to networks, usually through a smartphone.
Several smart watches using the Google Android platform were shown at the Consumer Electronic Show earlier this year. Other wearable devices can be used for health and fitness monitoring.
Apple did not immediately respond to an AFP query on the latest reports.
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