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A Closer Look at JuntoBox Films, the Collaborative Film Studio
Noah J Nelson on Thursday, Jul. 11th
JuntoBox Films, the Santa Monica based collaborative film studio, has been making waves again in the past month. Their model, which puts a crowdsourced twist on the movie making process, helped earn co-chairman Forest Whitaker a spot on the Indiewire Influencers list.
A little over a year ago JuntoBox was in beta, getting ready to make their first green light announcement. Recently, on the eve of their latest green light, I had the chance to visit their space at Santa Monica's Bergamot Station and speak with founder Philippe Caland and head of digital Rachael McLean about the maturation of the company.
The hub of the space at Bergamot is a screening room that looks like the most comfortable living room imaginable, with the screen high on the back wall and enough cushy chairs to seat a production team and then some. It's a physical metaphor for the company's online networking platform, one that indicates a possible destiny for the company.
JuntoBox is built around the idea that independent filmmakers are stronger when they can look out for each other. This was born out of Caland's own experiences as a filmmaker which began with the 1993 film Boxing Helena.
"I realized that an independent filmmaker in this town at some point looses his independence completely," said Caland. "It was a big word: independent, but there was nothing independent about the business. At that point I thought the best way to really give independence to the filmmakers is to give them the tools to get them together."
The main function of the JuntoBox platform is to act as a development filtration system. Filmmakers can use the site to upload project profiles, in the hopes that they will bubble up through a five step process and land a production deal with the company.
Filmmakers and other users of the site are the audience for these profiles. If a project garners enough support it moves on through the process. If that was all there was to JuntoBox it wouldn't be all that interesting, or have much in the way of legs. After all, there are only so many projects the company can greenlight on their own. To have a healthy community JuntoBox needs to attract more than just the handful of projects that have a hope of scoring a contract.
As Caland envisioned, the platform provides tools for independent filmmakers whether their goal is to get a deal with the company or not.
McLean, who was Vice President of International Digital Media at MTV Networks, explained the tool "crew up", which helps filmmakers connect with others who can work on their projects.
"They can add everything in there and then people can apply for the position," said McLean. "That's become a really popular area."
According to McLean a partnership with IndieGoGo, which allows for filmmakers to bring the crowdfunding site's module into their JuntoBox project, was in response to the desire of the community. The users wanted to merge the crowd sourcing tools that the company provides with the crowdfunding tools they're comfortable with.
McLean sees JuntoBox as providing an essential part of the mix that is often overlooked by first time filmmakers.
"Crowdfunding is great, everyone knows, if you have the audience," said McLean. "If you have the network that can come in there and help get behind you. What we're trying to do is create that, but also create the environment where its not just the funding, but its also the support of getting through how you make a film and being part of that community."
That idea–putting the building of a community first before looking to raise funds for a project–is something any would-be practitioner of crowdfunding should pay close attention to.
The JuntoBox focus on community also extends to how the company is approaching the distribution of films they produce.
"There are all kinds of new avenues for distribution," said Caland. "From our point of view as a company when you go to distributors–and they are bigger, strategic distributors–if you go to them as a producer and you have one film, then they talk to you as a producer. If you go to them as a content provider, then you can strike strategic alliances. So we're in a place right now where we're reinforcing ourselves as content providers, and that is creating a community."
Distribution is the part of the film ecosystem that seems to be both the most in flux and the most in need of disruption. Even as Caland says that JuntoBox is looking towards building a strong slate of films that will give them negotiating power with distributors, he sees other possible futures.
"Probably what's going to happen between now and then is there's going to be a new chapter in distribution. New avenues, some that we could bring into our own system and start having exits for our own films without going to other people."
Caland notes that this would require "serious marketing dollars" to get up and running.
Before all that can come to pass the intital films the company has sheparded into production have to reach audiences. The question of whether or not this kind of crowd sourcing model can produce a film that moves people has yet to be answered.
That time is fast aproaching, as JuntoBox Film's first feature Sacrifice is now in post-production. Meanwhile, the company is using their cushy Bergamot Station digs as a place for their online community to get together in person, forging tighter bounds than the internet alone can forge.
Follow Noah Nelson on Twitter (@noahjnelson)
Bergamot Station • crowd sourcing • crowdfunding • Forest Whitaker • independenpt film • Juntobox Films • Philippe Caland • Rachael Mclean • Santa Monica • toplogo


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1 head cabbage
green onion
1 packet chicken ramen noodles
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup slivered almonds
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup rice vinegar (I use a little more rice vinegar)
chicken packet from ramen
sugar to taste
Cut cabbage into thin slices and then chop the slices. Dice the green onion. Smash the package of ramen noodles and add to cabbage, onion, almonds, and sunflower seeds. Mix the dressing together and cover the salad.

subset: commoncrawl


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Learn about this topic in these articles:
Shillong Plateau
...Plateau is an outlier of the plateau of peninsular India and is composed primarily of ancient rocks. It contains reserves of coal and iron ore, and limestone is quarried. The highest point is Shillong Peak, at 6,433 feet (1,961 metres) located 3 miles (5 km) south of the city of Shillong.


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First-timer Amber Segers, from Statesboro, said she has had a blast since arriving Friday for the St. Patrick's Day Festival.
Segers showed off her arm full of multi-colored drinking wristbands to prove it.
"I feel like I've had the full experience," she said.
Her friend Karl Ebert, whose face Seger painted green, said this is also the first year he has watched the parade, although he has lived in Savannah for three years.
In the past, he just went downtown to party during the festival and skipped the parade.
"It's a little early in the morning," Ebert said.


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How many times have we made the resolution to eat healthier in the New Year, only to fail within the first two weeks and give up? I don't know about you, but I can't count the number of times.
This year, we're trying a new approach by foregoing meat two nights a week. We're doing this mainly to increase our vegetable and fruit intake, but it will have the added advantage of decreasing our fat intake for the week.
This is a bold move for this Southern-born-and-raised cook. I plan my meals by first determining the meat, then adding the sides. This resolution will require me to change my whole way of thinking two nights a week.
Possessing way too many cookbooks, I began my planning by pursuing vegetable recipes. I then went to the Internet and found some really helpful websites, even a Meatless Monday site (meatlessmonday.com).
According to this site, going meatless even one night a week can reduce my fat intake by 15 percent, make me healthier and helping the environment. What I found most interesting, though, is that a meatless day is a part of our history.
According to the facts listed on the website, during World War I, the U.S. Food Administration urged families to reduce consumption of key staples to aid the war effort. "Food Will Win the War," the government proclaimed, and "Meatless Monday" and "Wheatless Wednesday" were introduced to encourage Americans to do their part.
This effort was revived in World War II when Presidents Roosevelt and Truman used rationing to help feed war-ravaged Europe. And I thought this was a New Age idea. I guess it's true that "everything old is new again."
In addition to history and the many health benefits of Meatless Monday, this Web site is also full of helpful hints and recipes for going meatless one day a week. Armed with all this newfound knowledge and a new way of thinking about meals, I have eagerly undertaken planning our menus for meatless nights using these few guidelines:
1. Increase the amount of beans and peas in our meals. Dried beans and peas are full of protein and fiber and are considered by most vegetarians a replacement for meat. They also tend to give us a more satisfied feeling when we don't have meat on the menu.
2. Increase our green leafy intake by including more salads and foods like cabbage, collards and kale. (I will have to make one exception to meatless nights by seasoning my greens with some type of smoked pork, but I will throw the meat away instead of breaking it up in the greens. That's my Southern girl concession.)
3. Increase our fruit intake with fruit cups made from fresh or frozen fruits only. At the end of a long day, cutting up fruit is just more than I care to do, so I am preparing these on the weekend for the week. I am more inclined to eat fruit if it is already cut into bite-sized portions.
4. Go brown. Most beans/peas beg for rice or a side of buttered pasta, but eating all that starch seems to defeat the healthy intent of our meatless nights. Replacing our white rice with brown rice or our pasta with wheat pasta will increase our whole-grain intake and not negate the benefits of going meatless.
I have to admit that the research has actually made me eager to get going. For one reason, it gives me an excuse to read my cookbooks again (my favorite past time) and I am looking forward to trying new recipes and discovering new ways to plan meals.
This resolution just might last. Wish me luck!
Teri Bell, aka Miss Sophie, is co-owner of Miss Sophie's Marketplace in Pooler


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Season One:
- "Imprisoned" introduces us to a large naval vessel used by the Fire Nation as a prison for Earthbenders. The Earthbenders are unable to fight their way out due to the ship being made entirely out of metal, and the fact that metalbending has yet to be invented. So far, pretty smart, but the fuel they use in the ship's furnaces ruins it.
You'd Expect: The Firebenders to use wood, or any other substance that can't be bent by an Earthbender.
Instead: They use coal as their fuel source. For a prison dedicated to holding people with the power to manipulate earth and stone. Granted, they presumably keep the existence of the coal secret from the prisoners, and the prison does a pretty good job of breaking their spirits, to the point that even when given earth and stone, it takes them a while to start fighting back. But with that being said, the prison still creates its own Achilles' Heel by having coal there.
Note: These Firebenders are still geniuses compared to their film counterparts, who imprisoned the Earthbenders in a natural valley made entirely of earth. Not that it excuses their moment here.
- Season 1 finale. Pakku catches Aang teaching Katara behind his back, against Pakku's wishes.
You'd think: With the fate of the world on the line, he'd at the very least let Aang off with a warning, or maybe pretend he didn't see them, if not drop the "no-females" rule altogether.
Instead: He refuses to teach Aang further. Makes you wonder why Roku didn't make a reappearance when he appeared to Jeong-Jeong over a far more trivial refusal.
Note: By the next morning, he is willing to reconsider, provided Katara apologize. He likely only refused to keep up his smugness over antagonizing Katara.
- Concurrently with the above: Aang and Katara have to apologize to Pakku. He makes a smartass remark.
You'd think: Katara would let it slide. Again, fate of the world. Not really the time to get angry.
Instead: She starts talking shit right back, challenges him to a duel and then attacks him when he refuses, any of which would ensure he'll never agree to teach Aang again.
- And of course, the defining idiocy of the series comes from Admiral Zhao during the first season finale. Zhao is invading the Northern Water Tribe in order to stop Aang from learning waterbending. Zhao is also aware that the Ocean and Moon spirits (the entities that power waterbending) are in the heart of the Tribe's city in the form of relatively harmless koi fish. Killing the Moon Spirit would destroy waterbending, however it would also cause serious trouble for the whole world, as both Aang and Iroh warn Zhao. Not to mention that Iroh, one of the strongest firebenders in the world, had just threatened him to stop.
You'd Expect: Zhao to realize that killing the moon is not only a mite bit overkill, but also would hurt the Fire Nation just as much as the rest of the world. So he'd think of some alternative that isn't nearly as stupid, like maybe taking the moon spirit hostage to ensure the cooperation of the Northern Water Tribe.
Instead: Zhao kills the moon. Brilliant. And it's pretty clear that to him, the destruction of waterbending was a bonus. He just wanted to be able to brag that he killed the moon. Fortunately, Yue is able to undo his actions with a Heroic Sacrifice.
Result: Aang fuses with the now extremely pissed off Ocean spirit, transforming the both of them into a gigantic humanoid koi monster. Koizilla proceeds to lay waste to the entire Fire Nation force, preventing Zhao's conquest of the Northern Water Tribe, and Zhao himself is later dragged underwater by the Ocean spirit. He has a cameo in The Legend of Korra, where it's revealed that he's ended up in the Fog of Lost Souls as punishment for his actions, condemning him to eternal insanity.
Season Two:
- Following Zhao's unsuccessful invasion of the Northern Water Tribe, Azula is assigned to bring Zuko and Iroh back to the Fire Nation, the former because of his failure to capture the Avatar, and the latter because of his betrayal at the North Pole. To ensure the pair co-operate with her, Azula lies to them about the Fire Lord seeing the value of family and wanting Zuko back.
You'd Expect: Azula to have drilled into her troops the importance of upholding the façade until Zuko and Iroh are safely chained up and muzzled. And if she did that, the troops to do so with the utmost dilligence until Azula orders them otherwise.
Instead: One of Azula's officers refers to Zuko and Iroh as "the prisoners", leading to the pair of them realizing it's a trap and inflicting a Curb-Stomp Battle on the crew before making their escape.
- During one of their trips through the Earth Kingdom, we had a war-weary general trying to force Aang into the Avatar State, to end the war with the Fire Nation early. After a Failure Montage, which includes giving Aang caffeinated tea and pouring mud on him, Aang admits that he thinks the state can only be activated when he is in danger.
You'd Expect: The General would Know When to Fold 'Em and NOT try to piss off the AVATAR. Or to just realize that you CANNOT control a supernatural force if it needs a violent trigger.
Instead: He has his men attack Aang in the climax, and when Aang finally does go into the Avatar State, the crazy bastard doesn't seem to mind that he and his men are getting their ASSES WHOOPED. Even when Aang's finally finished his mad rampage, he wonders out loud how to control him when he's in that state. Thank you for interfering, Sokka.
- While wandering the Earth Kingdom in the beginning of season 2, Iroh comes across a plant that is either "the rare White Dragon Bush, whose leaves make a tea so delicious it's heartbreaking!", or else "the White Jade Bush, which is poisonous."
You'd Expect: He'd demonstrate the good sense possessed by even the most scatterbrained Cub Scout and not touch the thing with a ten-foot-pole until he's 100% certain it's the right one.
Instead: He drinks it and almost dies.
- "The Blind Bandit": Lao Bei Fong, a wealthy Earth Kingdom merchant, discovers that Toph, the blind 12-year old daughter he kept hidden within his estate has been sneaking out to participate in quasi-legal underground pitfights. He then witnesses firsthand how great of an Earthbender she really is when she beats half a dozen experienced adult earthbenders into submission and makes it look easy.
You'd Expect: After reading Toph the obligatory riot act for sneaking out at night, and probably a bonus one for associating with such "riff-raff"—he'd assign her a seeing-eye maidservant, fire the so-called instructor who was supposed to teach her only breathing exercises, realize that being blind hasn't made her fragile at all, and allow her to instruct the Avatar. If he's still worried about her, that's fine: he can just insist that Toph trains the Avatar on his estate, where she'll be safe.
Instead: He announces that he has been permitting her too much freedom by letting her wander the gardens of the family compound on her own, and that she will from now on be guarded 24/7, while ordering the Avatar and his companions to leave. When Toph bolts, he compounds matters by hiring the guy who kidnapped her, who was one of the earthbenders that she beat to bring her home by any means possible.
- While the Gaang is taking mini-vacations, Sokka is determined to use his for war intel to beat the Fire Nation. He finds out from a scholar that there's a great library in the desert, run by spirits. When they get there, the Librarian Wan Shi Tong asks if they are looking for war knowledge. Wan Shi Tong is incredibly suspicious of them and all humans, due to his belief that humans only seek knowledge to compete with other humans, and the fact that the last human visitor burnt down a section of his library and used his knowledge for destruction and violence. He tells them not to do the same as him, however
You'd Expect: Aang, spiritual being as he is, to remember that messing with spirits for their knowledge can lead to bad things happening. You'd expect he would warn Sokka about this. Also, given a spirit kidnapped Sokka a season ago that he would remember Do Not Taunt Cthulhu.
Instead: Aang rapidly vouches for Sokka when the latter asks and doesn't warn him about the danger of messing with spirits. He also doesn't remonstrate Sokka for slipping various scrolls into his sack. This means that when Wan Shi Tong catches them, Aang can only give a weak apology that they're trying to do the right thing. Wan Shi Tong then points out that all humans believe that they are doing the right thing, and he's not going to let them abuse his knowledge anymore.
- Wan Shi Tong has let the team into his library, one of the most sacred things he has. Sokka finds some partly destroyed information which he can use to find a fire-nation weakness.
You'd Expect: Having gone this far, they'd Do Wrong, Right and use the utmost discretion, continue to check for his presence, not only out of respect for abusing the library, but also because Wan Shi Tong is a spirit (who dwarfs them), and the last angered spirit took on an entire armada with the help of the Avatar.
Instead: Sokka quite loudly announces that with the information they can finally destroy the Fire Nation, and Wan Shi Tong is obviously right behind him. Wan Shi Tong subsequently tries to kill the Gaang and bury the library for good, with the lot of them still inside it. Karma later hits the Gaang: the intel about the solar eclipse leads to a failed coup in season three, with most of the misfit army captured.
- While talking to the scholar, he warns them about desert Sandbenders. The Sandbenders notice the Gaang at the dried up tavern, along with their flying bison.
You'd Expect: The Sandbenders to realize that flying bison are rare, and thus it must belong to the Avatar, who is the Earth Kingdom's only hope of ending the war. Also that they must not reinforce the stereotypes that they are petty bandits, which the scholar mentions.
Instead: The Sandbenders don't consider these ramifications. They follow the Gaang into the desert and steal Appa while they're all in the Library, stranding the Avatar in a hostile environment. If Aang had died in the desert, the Fire Nation would have won then and there. Then when the Gaang miraculously makes it out, the ringleader of the thieving Sandbenders accuses them of stealing the abandoned sandcraft, while his father points out if the Gaang survived the desert they are guests and deserve Sacred Hospitality. Toph, who witnessed Appa's kidnapping, recognizes the voices, and Aang goes into the Avatar State on hearing Appa was muzzled, destroying everything in sight. The son's weak apology that he didn't know it was the Avatar's bison does not placate Aang, and his father shouts, "What have you done?!" If not for Katara, the Sandbenders would have died by sandstorm.
- Iroh has just made it into the heavily-defended Earth Kingdom city of Ba Sing Se alongside a boatload of Earth Kingdom refugees, who would not look kindly upon a Fire National sneaking in with them. He has just gotten a cup of too-cool tea.
You'd Expect: Iroh would just throw the tea away and wait to get something better, or simply drink it up and bear it.
Or: Iroh wouldn't make such a fuss about the tea being cold and very quietly heat it up before drinking it.
Instead: He makes a loud fuss about the tea being cold, and THEN uses Firebending to heat the tea up, putting himself (and, by extension, his nephew) in danger of being lynched as Fire Nation spies. And, in fact, he does get noticed by Jet; while things don't exactly go as Jet planned, he still comes very close to outing them as Firebenders.
- Jet on realizing Iroh is a firebender decides to get proof. He finds that Iroh is more resourceful thanks to Zuko chiding him, and thus Jet gets no evidence.
You'd Expect: Jet to just let it go, as his friends advise him. They're starting a new life, and so far Iroh and Zuko aren't posing a threat to anyone by making tea. He can act if he sees anything suspicious.
Instead: Jet storms into the tea shop and threatens Iroh at swordpoint, gambling that Iroh and Zuko can only firebend. To the patrons, he looks like a lunatic threatening a harmless tea maker. Zuko then defends his uncle with his swords, and fights Jet long enough for the police to arrest him and take him away.
- Long Feng, the Evil Chancellor of the Earth Kingdom capital, has a problem with the Avatar and his companions running around the city talking about the war, which he has gone to great lengths to deny so as to keep himself in power. Also, they have crucial intel on the Fire Nation.
You'd Expect: Long Feng to arrange a meeting immediately, listen to their plans/intel, give them the "no war within the walls" speech, then either direct them to one of the outer wall generals or just politely ask them to leave. He gets what he wants and the Gaang gets what they want, at least to some extent. Most importantly, his rule is not threatened.
Instead: Not only does he actively try to stop them from sharing their intel, but he blows them off when they finally do meet face to face. As Aang is already insistent on staying in Ba Sing Se to look for Appa, this only further antagonizes them until the season finale hits and he's deposed.
Worse Still: Long Feng captures Appa partway through this. He literally has a trump card that will either get rid of the Avatar or at least make him cooperative.
You'd Expect: Him to either threaten Appa directly to force their cooperation, or quietly have Appa moved outside the city walls and point them that way.
Instead: He keeps Appa secret for no good reason and tries to send them on a wild goose chase with Jet, which could have been accomplished just as easily by letting Appa go.
- Zuko does a few less than brilliant things, but consider the time he finds out that Aang in in Ba Sing Se, too, thanks to the "lost pet" flyer about Appa.
You'd Expect: If Zuko really wants to take up chasing Aang again, he make use of Aang's address written on the flyer.
Instead: He infiltrates the base of the local Secret Police, which is made up mostly of elite Earthbenders, planning to steal a huge, flying furry monster which has horns, airbending, and no reason to be cooperative, what with having defended Aang against Zuko before. And Zuko has no idea whatsoever what he'd do if he actually got Appa out of there. It takes his Uncle coming after him and spelling out the flaws in his plan and how he's blindly following someone else's will to snap him out of it.
Season Three:
- The newly minted Avatar Roku is celebrating his wedding, when he is approached by his best friend Fire Lord Sozin. Sozin tells Roku that it would be just swell to Take Over the World.
You'd Expect: Roku to try and talk him out out it, to use the experience he gained in traveling the world for 12 years to explain why taking over the world is a bad idea, to take Sozin on a Diversity Tour of the world, to latch onto Sozin's arm and not let go until he is sure that one of the 5 most influential people in the world lets go of his megalomaniac ideas.
Instead: Roku blows Sozin off and tells him to just forget it. And when Sozin implores him to listen, Roku says that he doesn't want to hear anymore of this, leaving Sozin feeling betrayed by his best friend, bitter and isolated. This war really IS your fault, Roku.
- Many years ago, a Waterbender from the Southern Water Tribe by the name of Hama was captured by the Fire Nation. She eventually escaped by developing Bloodbending and using it to incapacitate her guards. As a result of the torment she suffered at their hands, Hama hates the Fire Nation and everyone in it. Meanwhile, she hopes to pass on Bloodbending to the next generation of Waterbenders.
You'd Expect: Hama to try and contribute to the war effort against the Fire Nation, thereby using her hatred of them constructively, and/or seek out one of the three Water Tribes in the world, so that she'll have more of a chance of passing on her technique.
Instead: Hama just sits on her ass in a Fire Nation village, and her revenge consists of her using Bloodbending to abduct a few of the villagers every full moon.*
- Hama eventually does find a potential student by accident: Katara, who is also from the Southern Water Tribe and has a reasonable grudge against the Fire Nation, since Fire Nation soldiers killed her mother. During the full moon, she reveals to Katara the art of blood-bending as well as her role in kidnapping random Innocent Bystanders at night.
You'd Expect: For Katara to go Oh, Crap! on realizing that she's facing a Black and White Insanity woman that can manipulate people like puppets with their bodily fluids and has done so for decades. Katara could then try to make an excuse to leave as soon as possible, create a distraction and run for the cover of the woods where Hama won't be able to see her without the moonlight, or beg to only learn the movements without having to use them on a living thing. Either way, it's best for her to go Screw This, I'm Outta Here! and find the others.
Instead: Katara openly declares that she will never use blood-bending. Hama then blood-bends her, forcing her to learn the movements anyway, and lampshades Katara "betraying" her without having learned from her. Although Katara eventually overpowers Hama, the scars of blood-bending stay with her, especially when forced to use to to save Aang and her brother.
- In "The Day of Black Sun" Azula suspects that Aang is alive, and lures him and his friends into an isolated room.
You'd Expect: That Azula would bring a large squad of Dai Li agents to overwhelm them. Or she could have surrounded the area with firebenders, and had them attack after the eclipse was over. Granted, one could argue that resources are important elsewhere, but the Fire Nation had more than enough troops to force a surrender, and the Avatar is the most important figure in the entire war!
Instead: She attacks them with only two Dai Li agents. The Gaang defeats them, and they even manage to catch Azula herself! It was basically luck that she wasn't injured, or killed. Azula does manage to escape, but so does the Gaang (again), and Aang inevitably fulfills his destiny, defeating Ozai and the Fire Nation. Oops.
- In "The Western Air Temple" Zuko has decided to join Team Avatar, who are dealing with the aftermath of the failed Black Sun invasion, and follows them to the titular temple, to become Aang's firebending teacher.
You'd Expect: That Zuko would show up with a peace offering, say supplies for the escapees of the Black Sun fiasco, or his father's plans for Sozin's Comet. Last time Team Avatar saw him, Zuko had helped his sister take down Ba Sing Se, turn on Katara and betray his uncle; they have no proof that he is trustworthy, especially after Azula Out-Gambitted them during the Black Sun.
Instead: Zuko, being Zuko, only practices his "Hello, Zuko here" speech on a frog and while apologizing to the Gaang for his past actions reveals that he sent "Combustion Man" after them. ("That's not his name.") If not for Combustion Man arriving just in time and aid the Gaang against him some earning him some good favours, he would have had no chance of convincing them at all.
- Meanwhile Aang still needs a Firebending teacher, and lo and behold, Zuko appears and basically offers assistance to the Gaang. He even offers to surrender as a prisoner if they don't trust him.
You'd Expect: That Sokka and Katara put aside their reasonable grudge against Zuko, consider the fate of the world and how Aang really needs to learn Firebending and reluctantly allow Zuko to join. Keep in mind that he's quite possibly the only Firebender in the world now who would be willing to help since Jeong Jeong is in hiding and Iroh, who helped the Gaang escape in the season two finale, is presumably imprisoned. In addition, given the Gaang has three benders "and Sokka" as Toph put it once, they could all serve as Betrayal Insurance if Zuko is lying or becomes tempted to return to the Fire Nation's side, especially Katara with her Team Mom attitude and recently-gained ability to bloodbend.
Instead: They pretty much tell him to get lost. Even Toph sees the stupidity in their action.
Thankfully: Combustion Man arrives and Zuko helps the Gaang defeat the very same man he hired, allowing them to grudgingly let Zuko join the group.
- When Katara goes after the Fire Nation General that killed her mother, we learn that he did so during a raid to find a rumored waterbender in hiding. It turns out Katara's mother lied to the general about being the waterbender to protect Katara.
You'd Expect: That the general would demand proof to ensure that they had found the right person.
Instead: He instantly believes her without question and kills her, allowing Katara to remain hidden. Given that Katara was the one who ended up discovering Aang, the general's idiocy indirectly led to the downfall of the entire empire.
Graphic Novels:
- The Promise:
- Following Ozai's defeat and the subsequent end of the Hundred Year War, the Harmony Restoration Movement is established to remove the Fire Nation's colonies in the Earth Kingdom. It hits a snag when it comes to the older colony of Yu Dao, where the Fire Nation colonists and the Earth Kingdom citizens have intermarried and integrated deeply with one another over the last century, to the point that forcibly relocating the colonists would cause more problems than it would solve.
You'd Expect: The city mayor and his family to contact Zuko and explain Yu Dao's situation to him, and try and persuade him to leave Yu Dao alone. It also wouldn't hurt to remain polite and respectful during any negotiations, considering that Zuko is their freaking head of state.
Instead: Kori Morishita, the mayor's daughter, attempts to assassinate Zuko, which results in her arrest, and Zuko storming over to Yu Dao to personally enforce the Harmony Restoration Movement there. While he's there, Kori and Mayor Morishita frequently belittle him, even comparing him negatively to Fire Lord Ozai, the genocidal and maniacal tyrant who abused Zuko for most of his childhood.
Result: The only thing that stops Zuko from imprisoning Kori and her father for the rest of their lives is Mrs Morishita - practically the Only Sane Man in the family at this point - diffusing the situation, after which Zuko proves to be a Reasonable Authority Figure who would have been perfectly willing to help Yu Dao, if only he'd been made aware of what was going on beforehand.
- As a result of the above, Zuko decides to end his support for the Harmony Restoration Movement.
You'd Expect: That before taking any "drastic" action, Zuko would get in contact with Aang and/or the Earth King, explain the situation to them, and see if they could work things out peacefully.
Instead: Zuko publicly withdraws his support for the Harmony Restoration Movement, orders the departing colonials to return to the colonies and fortifies Yu Dao, not letting anyone in or out. Unsurprisingly, a lot of people see this as Zuko refusing to give up his colonies, and another war nearly starts.
- Shortly after Zuko does this, Aang and Katara show up in Yu Dao hoping to talk to him. A Fire Nation soldier orders them to leave, and Aang explains that he just wants to talk with Zuko.
You'd Expect: That Zuko would have anticipated Aang showing up, and given his guards sensible instructions on what to do if and when he arrived. Even if Zuko didn't, there is nothing stopping the guard from simply asking Aang to just wait at the gates while he goes to find Zuko.
You'd Also Expect: Zuko, who has known Aang and Katara for over a year by this point, to know that they're not going to attack his troops for no good reason.
Instead: The guards attack Aang and Katara, and keep doing so even when Aang insists that he only wants to talk. Then when Zuko shows up, rather than ordering his guards to stop attacking, he tries to restrain Katara. This causes Aang to go into an out of control Avatar State, and the only thing stopping Zuko from becoming a smear on the street is Katara talking Aang out of it. And after all the above, Zuko has the gall to tell Aang that they both need to calm down and talk, even though, as Aang rightly pointed out, that was what he was trying to do in the first place.
- Zuko is clearly conflicted on what to do regarding the colonies and decides to ask someone for help.
You'd Expect: That he would consult his uncle, who has always given him good advice, or perhaps someone from the Gaang, who could surely help him with the whole Harmony issue.
Instead: He consults the Jerkass and manipulative Ozai. While Ozai does give Zuko advice regarding leadership, the way he gives it makes Zuko reluctant to take it, for fear that he'll be acting just like his father.
- Following Ozai's defeat and the subsequent end of the Hundred Year War, the Harmony Restoration Movement is established to remove the Fire Nation's colonies in the Earth Kingdom. It hits a snag when it comes to the older colony of Yu Dao, where the Fire Nation colonists and the Earth Kingdom citizens have intermarried and integrated deeply with one another over the last century, to the point that forcibly relocating the colonists would cause more problems than it would solve.
- The Rift:
- Aang decides to celebrate Yangchen's festival, an old Air Nomad holiday, with the rest of the Gaang and the Air Acolytes. Toph soon soon stops enjoying the holiday when Aang insists on following through with the ceremonies of the holiday despite not knowing any of their purposes, since it reminds her of her unenjoyable childhood. It gets to the point that she becomes visibly upset, and Aang notices.
You'd Expect: That Toph would explain her issues with participating in the holiday to Aang, and either ask if she can be excused from the celebrations or just suck it up and stick it out. Aang may have been a bit overly-enthusiastic about celebrating Yangchen's Festival with his friends, but it's not like he chained her up and dragged her along. Alternatively, Aang could just ask Toph what her problem is.
Instead: Toph pretty much decides to behave like a spoiled brat, whereas Aang immediately treats her like such without ever thinking that she might have a reason for her behaviour.
- As Aang prepares to destroy the Earthern Fire Refinery and the surrounding town in order to try and pacify General Old Iron, Toph appears and demands to know what's going on, being one of the biggest fans of the refinery and all it represents. Aang now has to give her an explanation.
You'd Expect: "There's a giant, all-powerful spirit who's going to go to war with humanity if this land isn't returned to its natural state!"
Instead: (paraphrased) "One of the previous Avatars made a deal with a giant, ancient spirit, then humans built over this land and the spirit's probably coming back now...you know what, forget it! I have to do this, so just trust me!"
Result: This explanation completely fails to satisfy Toph, who assumes that Aang is once again putting his people's traditions over the rest of the world, and the two of them get into a battle that could have ended in one of them getting killed if Old Iron hadn't shown up when he did.
- Aang decides to celebrate Yangchen's festival, an old Air Nomad holiday, with the rest of the Gaang and the Air Acolytes. Toph soon soon stops enjoying the holiday when Aang insists on following through with the ceremonies of the holiday despite not knowing any of their purposes, since it reminds her of her unenjoyable childhood. It gets to the point that she becomes visibly upset, and Aang notices.


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Becker Animal Hospital offers quality Ear Cleaning services for your pet, as needed. A basic ear cleaning consists of getting the inside of your pet's ears clean using cleaning solution and ear swabs.
We also offer Ear Flushing which is a more in depth cleaning process consisting of removal of hair in the ears and the use of an antibiotic solution and massaging of the ear to address ear infections, ear mites and ear allergies.
Here in South Texas allergies are very common in both pets and people and in pets allergies will often present as a red, inflamed and irritated ear that needs to be cleaned out and have an anti-biotic/yeast/cortisone medication applied.
Ear allergies and general skin allergies are a very common problem in Texas and if your pet is itching and scratching it's ears or skin please contact us about an allergy exam and treatment.


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The Child Labor Epidemic in Factories of the Industrial Revolution
Industrial Revolution
Children In the Factories
Important People
During the Industrial Revolution, children were forced by poverty to work in factories. The factories were horrible, but many associations and people fought for the children's rights that they should not be subjected to certain situations. The factory owners took advantage of the fact that the children had to work to support their families and that their tiny bodies could fit into places that adults could not. Many lives were lost or damaged for that reason. Females were also taken for granted because they, too, worked for a cheaper salary than a male would. Thanks to all of the people that fought for children, laws were made and ratified, minimum age laws were intact, and children were able to get an education rather than spend their time working. Many children never experienced a "real childhood" because they had no opportunity to play, they only had the opportunity to work.
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It looks like some couples want to be as creative as possible when it comes to pregnancy announcement.
Read on!
Jasmine and Brandon Nehilla wanted to show that they will be having a new baby.
Of course, they wanted it to be absolutely amazing. So, they took this hilarious image.
The couple is quite popular in the music scene of Atlanta.
They noted that they were inspired to take these photos because of some similar maternity pictures that they saw a few years ago.
They are excited to welcome a baby boy in December.
We aren't exactly enthusiastic about Brandon Nehilla's beer belly though.
On the other hand, this guy's pregnant wife didn't want to take maternity photos.
Well, what else was he supposed to do?
He decided to look like the mother instead.
I think his wife wouldn't get mad at him at all for choosing this way to reveal the news.
Let's hope that the baby won't get confused seeing this in the future.
This guys has the courage to do something crazy like this.
He knows that this is true love.
You know that your husband loves you if he decides to have the maternity photos clicked this way.
This mother proved that being pregnant does not have to sound troubling.
She wanted everyone to know that it can be a peaceful experience.
She's really flexible even with her baby bump.
If I did that, I would have fallen immediately.
The baby must have been feeling incredibly comfortable inside.
A mother needs to stay healthy and relaxed for her child.
Don't forget to cooperate with your husband to maintain a mental health.
This is her 'most inspiring maternity photo.'
I love how it evokes a sense of calm and elegance.
How would you like to announce your pregnancy?


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Focus - The South African Wine Industry
Next week the wine producers of South Africa get to tout their wares at the bi-ennial showcase that is Cape Wine. The three-day Cape Town trade show, back after a four-year break following 2010's football World Cup, is expecting visitors from as far afield as China, Japan and Latin America. Here, just-drinks takes a look at the current state of the country's wine industry.
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skating rinks in Kasson, MN
Dodge County Ice Arena100 11th St Ne, Kasson, MN map
Midwest Skate Shop & Indoor Skatepark1020 7th St Nw, Rochester, MN map
Blades To Ballet1624 Highway 52 N, Rochester, MN map
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Flapdoodles Ice Cream3525 22nd Ave Nw, Rochester, MN map
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April 18th, 2013, 09:35 AM
Ryan and Alex's Mommy
Platinum Supermommy
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: canada
Posts: 6,104
Originally Posted by
I think if I had a bunch of kids I'm match them in the same colour just to keep track of them out in public
BUT otherwise I'm going to be lucky if my kid's top matches their bottoms... I suck at picking out clothes... I always let the kids I care for choose what they want to wear, and if that means a pink skirt, with blue top and mis matched leggings.... well "that's what the 4 yr old chose"... no dirt on my hands
Oh I match my boys when we go some where busy like the zoo and something with a bright color to. It's just way easier to find them if they run a few feet ahead or get lost in the crowd looking at an animal.
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Simply update your outdoor living space with these comfy seat cushions. The welted edge adds a smart and classic look to patio furniture. Made of durable outdoor fabric for easy care and enduring beauty. Designed to fit most traditional dining chairs, including dining chairs in the Sea Bright, Elsie, Pembroke, Miramar II, Augusta, Salem High Collections, and Edington Dining Chair.
- Dimensions: 20 in. D x 20 in. W x 4.75 in. thick
- Olefin fabric offers luxurious quality and feel and provides excellent UV resistance for high performance
- Outdoor fabric is UV treated to resist fading for longer lasting vibrant color
- 100% polyester filled, a superior poly fill that helps cushion retain shape over time


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- Please select a date to see the proper prices!
Description of the Accommodation
Rooms, services Daxianglong Tea Theme Hotel - Baoshan is offering 40 tasfefully furnished, nice rooms for those looking for a place to stay at in Baoshan. Car rental service will help you discover the most important attractions. In the safe your valuables may be the safely secured. If you wish to learn more about the exact scope of services provided by Daxianglong Tea Theme Hotel - Baoshan (including those available for an extra fee) or about the equipment of the rooms, you can find the complete list on the information sheet below.
Payment Credit card guarantee or advance bank card payment may be required for the reservation, depending on the chosen room, date and price.
Arrival, opening hours The personnel speaks Chinese - China and English.
Daxianglong Tea Theme Hotel - Baoshan rooms Rooms
- Please select a date to see the proper prices!
Accommodation services
Car rental nearby
Elevator, Safe deposit box
Desk in the room


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Desk Sets
A workplace should be inspiring. We spend a great deal of hours hard at work, why not invest in an elegant office chair, an antique desk, or a designer desk set that you won't want to clock-out from. Browse our collection and add a little vintage charm to inspire your next Great American Novel or celebrate your professional accomplishments with an antique desk set.


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Fire management in species-rich Cape fynbos shrublands
Please help populate SUNScholar with the full text of SU research output. Also - should you need this item urgently, please send us the details and we will try to get hold of the full text as quick possible. E-mail to email@example.com. Thank you.
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Turkish court rejects status of Orthodox Patriarchate
A Turkish court declared on Tuesday that the Istanbul-based Orthodox Patriarch is only the head of the city's tiny Greek Orthodox community and not the spiritual leader of the world's 300 million Orthodox Christians. While this has no impact on the status of the Patriarch outside Turkey, it strengthens Turkish internal resistance to acknowledging the greater role of the Patriarch and the Orthodox community in Turkey. "This decision is yet another indication that Turkey has no interest in advancing a fair and balanced approach to freedom of religion," commented the Washington-based Institute on Religion and Public Policy President Joseph K Grieboski. Turkey maintains tight controls on the Orthodox community, including rules requiring that patriarchs must be Turkish citizens. This sharply limits the potential pool of candidates to one day succeed Bartholomew. The patriarchate also has pressed Turkey to allow the reopening of a seminary that was forced to close more than two decades ago, which under Turkish law further limits the pool of potential successors to the 67-year-old patriarch. The court ruled that "The Patriarchate, which was allowed to remain on Turkish soil is subject to Turkish laws...There is no legal basis for the claims that the Patriarchate is ecumenical." "No government has the right or the authority to determine the ecclesiology of a religious community," Mr. Grieboski stated. "Both international and European laws are clear that a state cannot interfere in the organizational structure of a faith. Turkey is once again showing that freedom of religion is not a priority or concern, and that it has no true interest in joining the European system." Source: Institute on Religion and Public Policy


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To upgrade follow the steps in your website's http://mybaseurl/upgrader.php script. You will need to copy the URL of the attached TAR file (created via the form below) during step 3.
Please make sure you take a backup before uploading your new files!
Your upgrade to version 8 RC1
You can generate an upgrader from any version of ocPortal to any other version. If you access this upgrade post via the version information box on your Admin Zone front page then we'll automatically know what version you're running.
If you'd prefer though you can enter in your version number right here:
If you'd prefer though you can enter in your version number right here:
There is a very long list of new functionality, announced previously in a forum topic.
Additional upgrade advice is provided in these topics:


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text: Blind IR Channel Equalization Based on Second-Order StatisticsFangjiong Chen, Sam Kwong, Wenfei Nie, Gang Wei, Fei JiVTC Spring2005In this paper, we present new approaches to blind channel estimation and equalization based on Second Order Statistics (SOS). We first consider the case of minimum phase channels where the equalizer is designed based on the criterion of autocorrelation matching. We cast the problem as a convex optimization program that can be efficiently solved using… (More)


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Police probe rally deaths - Safety claims after three killed
ORGANISERS of Scotland's biggest rally could face criminal charges after three people were killed while watching the race.
Elizabeth Allan, 63, her partner Iain Provan, 64, and Len Stern, 71, died when a car careered off the road during the Jim Clark Rally in the Borders.
A fourth spectator was left fighting for his life after the Citroen DS3 ploughed into fans at Little Swinton, near Coldstream, Berwickshire.
The horror unfolded just two hours after another five people were hurt when they were hit by a different vehicle at the same event. The car involved in the fatal crash was being driven by Irishman David Carney and his co-driver Ray Fitzpatrick and had just come over a bridge on the narrow road when it lost control.
Neither was injured in the incident which happened at about 4pm on Saturday. Police Scotland has launched an investigation into the tragedy but sources last night confirmed criminal charges could follow.
It is understood the probe will focus on safety arrangements at the scene – where cars reach speeds of up to 100mph.
It is understood the probe will focus on safety arrangements at the scene – where cars reach speeds of up to 100mph.
One horrified eyewitness yesterday told how precautions in previous years were not in place at the weekend.
Teacher Colin Gracey said there were fewer stewards on duty and that safety tape which normally kept spectators 30 metres (98 feet) back was far closer to the road.
Mr Gracey, 46, who has watched the rally for 17 years, said: "There were a couple of stewards down there, but not as many as in previous years. You could feel that something wasn't right. It was taped off along the road. That tape should have been 30 metres back, like it was in previous years."
Mr Gracey, who witnessed the crash with his wife and three children, added: "There shouldn't have been people there. As the car came through it slightly lost it then regained it going up.
"I can honestly only equate it to being like a bowling ball at 100 miles an hour, it was dreadful, absolutely dreadful."
The bodies were left "in-situ" until late yesterday under the instructions of the Procurator Fiscal.
A police insider said: "No one should have been close enough to the landing point where a car can bounce out of control and go in any direction despite the best attempts of the driver to keep it under control."
The rally car was still at the scene yesterday with two white tents also erected on the road. A forensic officer was seen filming at a nearby junction. A police cordon remained in place at the entry to the road and flowers were left beside a tree.
Ms Allan and Mr Provan, from Barrhead, Renfrewshire, and Mr Stern from Bearsden, near Glasgow, are thought to have rented a holiday cottage in nearby Swinton. It is owned by a local former police officer, who declined to comment yesterday.
But neighbour Fiona Wilson, 60, described the vantage point where the crash happened as "scary". She added: "We watched from there two years ago. You're just 18 inches from the road."
The rally takes place over three days on closed roads in the Duns and Kelso areas.
It is named after Scottish Formula 1 driver Jim Clark, who was brought up in the area. Clark died in a motor racing accident in Germany in 1968.
When asked about Mr Gracey's safety claims and the prospect of a criminal inquiry, rally spokesman John Fife last night said: "The police seem perfectly happy with the way the event was run. We are assisting them with their inquiries."
One marshal, Ann Raey, of Cornhill-on-Tweed, last night defended organisers. She said: "The public do get too close to the road. It's not the marshals' fault, it's not the organisers' fault, it is the people getting too close and wanting to see more."
Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill and Lord Advocate Frank Mulholland will today be briefed by officers at Kelso Police Station.
Mr MacAskill will also make a statement to Parliament tomorrow.


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Jiashan SkyFlag Furniture Co.,Ltd
veneer, wood veneer, plywood, natural veneer, furniture material, Manufacturer and Supplier - China
widly used for advanced furniture decoration - Update: 2013-07-13
Efficient reply within 24 hours. Fast delivery,normal species and size are available within 7 days. etc - Update: 2013-07-13
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Length: 1500mm-3000mm
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Grade: Furniture Grade, Door grade and Panel Grade
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in China. We are the Vice... - Update: 2013-07-05
Red oak wood veneer
Length: 1000-3600mm
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Different sizes can be produced according to the orders.
We can stably supply you Red Oak wood veneer in good quality and grain ... - Update: 2013-07-05
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You will get satisfactory Mappa Burl Wood Veneer in SkyFlag with professional and considerate service. - Update: 2013-06-10
American White Oak veneer (C/C)
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System, A... - Update: 2013-03-28


text: (The following statement was released by the rating agency) LONDON, June 13 (Fitch) Fitch Ratings has affirmed Sanlam Life Insurance Limited's (Sanlam Life), Sanlam Developing Markets Limited's (SDM) and Santam Limited's (Santam) National Insurer Financial Strength (IFS) Ratings at 'AAA(zaf)'. Fitch has also affirmed Sanlam Life's parent and the ultimate holding company of the Sanlam group, Sanlam Limited's (Sanlam) National Long-Term rating at 'AA+(zaf)'. The Outlooks are Stable. The affirmations reflect the Sanlam group's resilient business position, capitalisation and operating performance relative to peers. Fitch also views favourably the diversification provided by Sanlam Emerging Markets (SEM), which contributed 20% to Sanlam's operating profit in 2016. The group's earnings and investment exposure to a weakening South African economy is a rating weakness. A full list of rating actions is at the end of this commentary. KEY RATING DRIVERS Sanlam's well-established and diversified business position in South Africa is a key rating strength. Sanlam sells a wide range of investment, insurance and other personal finance products to individuals and institutional clients. Investment-type business is the main component (2016 and 2015: 64%) of total funds received, and is mainly derived from South Africa. Santam, the group's majority owned non-life subsidiary, is the largest general insurer in South Africa, with a strong domestic franchise and a market share of around 20%. It writes all classes of business and has a well-known brand in both commercial and personal lines. Capital is conservatively managed, with Sanlam Life's statutory capital adequacy requirement (CAR) cover ratio remaining strong and unchanged at 5.8x at end-2016, the highest level in its peer group. The group's capital position is supportive of the group's ratings with a Prism factor-based capital model (FBM) score of "extremely strong" at end-2016. Sanlam has continued using excess capital to invest in high-growth business opportunities both within and outside South Africa. In May Sanlam redeployed discretionary capital (i.e. capital in excess of the company's internally assessed capital requirements) of USD329 million toward a further 16.6% stake in Saham Finances S.A. (Saham), taking its total investment in Saham to USD704 million (around ZAR9 billion at current exchange rates) for a 46.6% stake. Fitch views favourably the diversification benefits of Saham's holding; however, it is not clear if the transaction will prove earnings-accretive to the group. In January 2017 the group also announced its acquisition of a 53% stake of South African life insurer BrightRock for around ZAR700 million. Sanlam's financial leverage of 8% at end-2016 (end-2015: 6%) is well within Fitch's guidelines for the ratings. The rise was mainly driven by a rise in Santam's standalone financial leverage to 22% at end-2016 (end-2015: 10%) following a subordinated notes issue of ZAR1 billion in April 2016. Sanlam has indicated that it intends to raise up to the equivalent of USD140 million in debt related to the Saham acquisition. As a result Fitch expects Sanlam's financial leverage to rise by up to four percentage points, but to remain within the limits for the ratings. Earnings generation is strong, diversified and compares favourably with that of its leading peers. The group's 2016 net operating profit improved 10% yoy, of which 7% represented organic growth and the balance a result of first-time contributions from previous acquisitions. This was supported by a 30% rise for SEM, supported by like-for-like growth of 45% in the 'rest of Africa segment', which excludes Namibia and Botswana. Fitch expects the aggregate operating profit contribution from SEM to rise, driven by the strong organic growth potential of the various underlying markets. The group's normalised headline earnings for 2016 decreased 6% following a 65% decline in net investment returns earned on Sanlam's capital portfolio. This portfolio is exposed to equity market and currency volatility. Santam has a long history of underwriting profitability, and in 2016 reported a strong combined ratio of 94%, in line with the 10-year average combined ratio of 94%, albeit weaker than 2015 (90%). The weaker result was mainly due to more catastrophe claims and higher motor repair cost. We expect recent storms and wild fires in the Western Cape to only weaken Santam's 2017 combined ratio marginally, owing to the significant reinsurance protection that it has in place. Fitch views favourably Santam's consistently strong operating performance and profitability track record. Most South African-based life insurers have reported weakening net customer cash flows, reflecting a difficult local economic environment. In addition, the sector remains exposed to domestic credit and other investment risks through exposure to local financial markets. However, these risk factors do not adversely affect the life insurance sector's creditworthiness relative to that of the South African sovereign. Sanlam Life, SDM and Santam are assessed as "core" to the Sanlam group under Fitch's insurance group rating methodology. Sanlam Life and SDM are fully integrated within the Sanlam group. Santam shares the group's strategy, including providing essential support to the group's emerging markets expansion. RATING SENSITIVITIES A substantial and sustained deterioration in capitalisation (in terms of Fitch's Prism score or Sanlam Life's CAR cover ratio), a weak operating performance or a severe weakening of market share could lead to a downgrade. A downgrade of Santam's ratings could be triggered by deterioration in Santam's standalone profile to an extent that Fitch no longer considers Santam as core to Sanlam. This could result from a sustained weak operating performance and/or severe weakening in Santam's market share. FULL LIST OF RATING ACTIONS Sanlam Life Insurance Limited National IFS Rating: affirmed at 'AAA(zaf)'; Outlook Stable National Long-Term Rating: affirmed at 'AAA(zaf)'; Outlook Stable National Short-Term Rating: affirmed at 'F1+(zaf)' Subordinated debt: affirmed at 'AA(zaf)' Sanlam Developing Markets Limited National IFS Rating: affirmed at 'AAA(zaf)'; Outlook Stable National Long-Term Rating: affirmed at 'AAA(zaf)'; Outlook Stable Santam Limited National IFS Rating: affirmed at 'AAA(zaf)'; Outlook Stable National Long-Term Rating: affirmed at 'AAA(zaf)'; Outlook Stable Subordinated debt: affirmed at 'AA(zaf)' Sanlam Limited National Long-Term Rating: affirmed at 'AA+(zaf)' Contact: Primary Analyst Willem Loots Senior Director +44 20 3530 1808 Fitch Ratings Limited 30 North Colonnade London E14 5GN Secondary Analyst Harish Gohil Managing Director +44 20 3530 1257 Committee Chairperson Chris Waterman Managing Director +44 20 3530 1250 Media Relations: Athos Larkou, London, Tel: +44 203 530 1549, Email: email@example.com. Additional information is available on www.fitchratings.com Applicable Criteria Insurance Rating Methodology (pub. 26 Apr 2017) here Additional Disclosures Solicitation Status here#solicitation Endorsement Policy here ALL FITCH CREDIT RATINGS ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMERS. PLEASE READ THESE LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMERS BY FOLLOWING THIS LINK: here. IN ADDITION, RATING DEFINITIONS AND THE TERMS OF USE OF SUCH RATINGS ARE AVAILABLE ON THE AGENCY'S PUBLIC WEB SITE AT WWW.FITCHRATINGS.COM. PUBLISHED RATINGS, CRITERIA, AND METHODOLOGIES ARE AVAILABLE FROM THIS SITE AT ALL TIMES. FITCH'S CODE OF CONDUCT, CONFIDENTIALITY, CONFLICTS OF INTEREST, AFFILIATE FIREWALL, COMPLIANCE, AND OTHER RELEVANT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FROM THE CODE OF CONDUCT SECTION OF THIS SITE. DIRECTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS RELEVANT INTERESTS ARE AVAILABLE here. FITCH MAY HAVE PROVIDED ANOTHER PERMISSIBLE SERVICE TO THE RATED ENTITY OR ITS RELATED THIRD PARTIES. DETAILS OF THIS SERVICE FOR RATINGS FOR WHICH THE LEAD ANALYST IS BASED IN AN EU-REGISTERED ENTITY CAN BE FOUND ON THE ENTITY SUMMARY PAGE FOR THIS ISSUER ON THE FITCH WEBSITE. Copyright © 2017 by Fitch Ratings, Inc., Fitch Ratings Ltd. and its subsidiaries. 33 Whitehall Street, NY, NY 10004. Telephone: 1-800-753-4824, (212) 908-0500. Fax: (212) 480-4435. Reproduction or retransmission in whole or in part is prohibited except by permission. All rights reserved. In issuing and maintaining its ratings and in making other reports (including forecast information), Fitch relies on factual information it receives from issuers and underwriters and from other sources Fitch believes to be credible. Fitch conducts a reasonable investigation of the factual information relied upon by it in accordance with its ratings methodology, and obtains reasonable verification of that information from independent sources, to the extent such sources are available for a given security or in a given jurisdiction. The manner of Fitch's factual investigation and the scope of the third-party verification it obtains will vary depending on the nature of the rated security and its issuer, the requirements and practices in the jurisdiction in which the rated security is offered and sold and/or the issuer is located, the availability and nature of relevant public information, access to the management of the issuer and its advisers, the availability of pre-existing third-party verifications such as audit reports, agreed-upon procedures letters, appraisals, actuarial reports, engineering reports, legal opinions and other reports provided by third parties, the availability of independent and competent third- party verification sources with respect to the particular security or in the particular jurisdiction of the issuer, and a variety of other factors. 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Where the War REALLY was Won (and who won it)
- The American Civil War Western Theater Discussion Group is a great
forum for the 600-plus men and women who see significance in what
happened westward from the Appalachians. Millions of other Americans,
however, STILL assume the "real war" occurred mostly in Virginia, and
Gettysburg was the war's turning point. For those of us who believe the
war's outcome was shaped in the Western Theater instead, the popular
lack of awareness is a kind of continuation of the insults Easterners
used to heap on Westerners ("armed rabble," "drunkards," etc.). I have
just joined the small group of writers who argue the war's outcome was
shaped in the Western Theater by Westerners while Easteners were
achieving no more than (as Richard McMurry puts it) "a bloody strategic
stalemate." The battlefields of Virginia and nearby were great for
creating widows and orphans, but until Grant came east, not much else
that might end the war. My new book, "Blood, Tears, and Glory: How
Ohioans Won the Civil War" (see wwww.orangefrazer.com/btg) makes the
argument from one point of view; I hope others will chime in with
theirs. James (Jim) Bissland
This letter, published in the S&D Reflector in Dec 1969, was written by the mayor of Pittsburgh to recognize six steamboat captains and their vessels for their service to the country.
Pittsburgh, PA,
Feb 19th, 1862
I desire that the captains of the following
steamers be placed on record for the patriotic
and liberal (volunteering) of their services
and boats, without renumeration, to proceed
immediately to the Cumberland River to relieve
the sick and wounded soldiers: Rocket, Capt
Wolf; Clara Poe, Capt Poe, Horizon, Capt
Stockdale; Emma, Capt Maratta; Westmorland,
Capt Evans; Sir William Wallace, Capt Hugh
B. C. Sawyer, Jr., Mayor.
My search for the original letter has failed to date. To whom the letter was addressed is unknown. What words were replaced? The subject of the paragraph in the S&D Reflector was salaries of the captains of the steamers during the war. Apparently, boats and crews who worked for no salary were not uncommon especially when pressed to service.
The letter was also interesting from the steamer point of view. Three boats were destroyed during the war. In Jan 1865, the Emma collided with the Louisville ferry. Both vessels were disabled and both floated helplessly over the falls. A dramatic ending for the Emma. The Clara Poe, bound for Nashville with supplies, was burned on 17 Apr 1865 by rebels along the Cumberland River . That date was curious. Hostilities in the west continued for about thirty days after Appomattox . While running at night without lights, the Horizon collided with the Moderator near Vicksburg on 1 May 1863 resulting in the deaths of many soldiers.
All six boats were built and manned from the Pittsburgh region. The Clara Poe and the Horizon were owned and operated by my guys from Georgetown , PA.
Another description of the impact of the Civil War on river commerce is found in a brief editorial - The Golden Age of Steamboating. If the hyperlink fails, the web page is:
Research on RR capabilities during the Civil War continues.
Fran Nash
----- Original Message -----
From: fwnash@...
To: email@example.com
Sent: Sunday, October 4, 2009 12:21:32 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern
Subject: Re: [civilwarwest] Re: Where the War REALLY was Won (and who won it)
Mr K
Wonderful story. Thanks for sharing. I often wonder what our great great grandchildren will think of our lives and artifacts.
Your phrase "marched along the RR towards Vicksburg " peaked my interest. As you are probably aware, my interest involves inland river steamboats from 1850-1870. I am also interested in Civil War railroads in Pittsburgh . There is a CWWT topic "Railroads" dated 20 Oct 2002. After I read the entries, I may throw out another possibly nutty idea .
Speaking of crazy, did we reach any conclusion on where the war was won, and who won it? Vicksburg and the Pook Turtles or Pittsburgh and the rivermen or?!? Currently, t he topic has more than sixty entries and, in my opinion, the discussion h as been quite interesting and entertaining .
Fran Nash
----- Original Message -----
From: "edkiniry" <wah_mei_1388@...>
To: email@example.com
Sent: Saturday, October 3, 2009 12:35:53 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern
Subject: [civilwarwest] Re: Where the War REALLY was Won (and who won it)
Thank you for asking. The story is in a small notebook that my mother used as a diary and a record of her collage days, about 1918. I found this story under a heading "Stories my father told me about the Civil War."I will parapharase.
I took sick after Shiloh and was sent to a hospital in Mound City. after a few weeks I wanted to return to my unit but the doctors thought I should still nurse. I found two soldiers who wanted to stay and nurse but were to be released and did not want to go. Me and my partner changed names with them and we left. We were traveling to the unit, in Tennessee, when we were caught by the sentries. we were taken before General Grant for a disposition. He said to the sentries "These boys are all right, let them return to their unit, but you shall make sure they get there." They joined the battery in time for Grant's march along the RR toward Vicksburg, and fell back when Van Dorn raided their supply depot at Holly Springs.
I couldn't believe what I was reading, swapped identities, a meeting of two privates under guard, with General Grant and it turned out O. K. and it was MY grandfather.
I am extremely glad that "mom" quieried her father about his experiences and recorded them.
An interesting side note: The Federals could not communicate with Sherman, that they would not make their part of the attack, but the rebels notified Pemberton of what had happened. It was approximately the same distance, but Forrest had made havoc with the Federal communications in Tennessee, and Grant could not tell Sherman that it was "all off."
--- In email@example.com, "carlw4514" <carlw4514@...> wrote:
> David, we would love to hear that story... and I too scold keeno2 [will?] for being dense and saying none were built in ILL.


text:
Welcome to Ultimate Subaru Message Board, my lurker friend!
|Welcome to Ultimate Subaru Message Board, an unparalleled Subaru community full of the greatest Subaru gurus and modders on the planet! We offer technical information and discussion about all things Subaru, the best and most popular all wheel drive vehicles ever created.
We offer all this information for free to everyone, even lurkers like you! All we ask in return is that you sign up and give back some of what you get out - without our awesome registered users none of this would be possible! Plus, you get way more great stuff as a member! Lurk to lose, participate to WIN*!
* The joy of participation and being generally awesome constitutes winning
** Not an actual guarantee, but seriously, you probably won't regret it!
Serving the Subaru Community since May 18th, 1998!
Guest Message by DevFuse
Jalopnik funness, Subaru style
Started by mtsmiths , Feb 07 2008 01:55 PM
3 replies to this topic
Posted 07 February 2008 - 01:55 PM
Posted 07 February 2008 - 02:27 PM
i will say that is cool....i wonder what he damaged?
Posted 07 February 2008 - 02:44 PM
i will say that is cool....i wonder what he damaged?
Everything, (including everything remotely) associated with the suspension.
Posted 07 February 2008 - 02:56 PM
i will say that is cool....i wonder what he damaged?
I guess he din't care, according to the Jalopnik sidebar he bought the car just to do the jump.
0 user(s) are reading this topic
0 members, 0 guests, 0 anonymous users


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Anddddd this dulhania is on wheels...catch up with us again on the 10th of March,2017 #BadrinathKiDulhania !!! @Varun_dvn@ShashankKhaitan
We're pretty sure that out of all the things you ask Alia Bhatt, the only thing she'll say no to is taking a break! Miss Bhatt has been on a roll ever since she made her Bollywood debut. Well, she has been rocking her career in Bollywood from the very genesis so asking her to stop now is a moot point. She is fiercely in the movie business and is exploring new highs in Bollywood. Being only 23, Alia is a bundle of talent that is always opening new realms of powerful performances with her movies. While the actress just finished enjoying the success of Udta Punjab and wrapped up Dear Zindagi, she quickly hopped onto Dharma's new venture, Badrinath Ki Dulhania.
While the film is helmed by Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania's director, Shashank Khaitan, this sort of sequel to the film again reunites Alia and her debut film co-star, Varun Dhawan. We still remember very vividly how grandly Dharma chose to break the news that Badrinath Ki Dulhania was happening. They had a cute teaser video that followed stop motion with Alia looking all girl-next-door-y and Varun looking slightly rowdy. And now we just found out the release date of the film! In her tweet, Alia revealed, "Anddddd this dulhania is on wheels…catch up with us again on the 10th of March,2017 #BadrinathKiDulhania !!! @Varun_dvn @ShashankKhaitan"
The best part about her revealing the release date of BKD is the fact that she did it on the same day Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania turned two years! Her previous collaboration with Shashank HSKD released on this very day, two years ago.


text:
Josh Hutcherson Teams With Airbnb For Straight But Not NarrowNovember 17, 2016 - Author: admin - Comments are closed
Josh Hutcherson and Straight But Not Narrow have teamed up with Airbnb to raise money for the nonprofit. Josh unveiled the exciting news earlier today, November 17.
For those interested, Airbnb is providing a two-day social immersion where attendees will be hosted by Straight But Not Narrow. During this two-day immersion attendees will participate in a Tech & Tool workshop & lunch and participate in Drag Queen Bingo.
To learn more about the immersion click here. You can also help Straight But Not Narrow by donating tech to the nonprofit.
Categories: Josh Hutcherson


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Handpicked brands for you
Craig Kelly in the distance, Chris Brunkhart behind the lens. Gone but never forgotten. The Ridge by @28f2 #chrisbrunkhart #craigkelly #asymbol #asymbolphotography #copilotseries


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Home Lithuania
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SEND FLOWERS TO Lithuania
Delivery information for flowers to LithuaniaInterflora's Lithuania flower delivery service means we're able to turn every occasion or thoughtful gesture into a beautiful floral gift. Whether you choose a colour-filled bouquet to celebrate a special event, or a perfectly crafted wreath sent with your deepest sympathies.
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text:
Shuttle transfers are cheaper than private transfers and this service is available now at vietnamcarhire.com. We use either Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit for shuttle transfers.The minibus accommodate up to 11 people.
Shuttle transfer are now provided for the following routes Hanoi – Halong bay; Hanoi – Mai Chau, and Hanoi – Sapa.


text:
It was nearly muddy in a undivided pelage, and it was full unclear after two. Psychoneurotic Driven Cosmetics Ripley (P, $ 10.00) is lower yellow-toned with finer alteration. SpaRitual Lithophonic (LE…
Talkwalker Alert: 50 results for [cosmetics]
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Mother of George DVD
Adenike and Ayodele (The Walking Dead's Danai Gurira and veteran actor Isaach De Bankolé) are a Nigerian couple living in Brooklyn. Following the joyous celebration of the their wedding, complications arise out of their inability to conceive a child - a problem that devastates their family and defies cultural expectations, leading Adenike to make a shocking decision that could either save her family or destroy it. Acclaimed director Andrew Dosumnu (Restless City) captures the nuances of this unique and fascinating culture by creating a beautiful, vibrant, and moving portrait of a couple whose joys and struggles are at once intimate and universal.
DVD Features:
- Feature-length audio commentary with director Andrew Dosunmu, editor Oriana Soddu, and costume designer Mobolaji Dawodu
- Seven deleted scenes
- Theatrical trailer
Rated R for sexuality, some language, and a disturbing image


text:
First Tutors helps you to find a home business related tutor in Llandudno Junction and anywhere in the UK. Local business related tuition is an excellent way to bolster confidence as well as improving grades and doesn't have to be boring! Please use our service to search for Llandudno Junction business related tutors and select the one who best meets your requirements.
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text:
- Please select a date to see the proper prices!
- Meal can be requested on the spot
Best offer
47.28 € / person / night, no meal
Description of the accommodation:
Rooms, services Just looking for accommodation in Romania? Take a look at the offer of Ice DYP Resort & Spa Timisoara! 21 comfortably furnished rooms are offered by the hotel to guests looking for accommodation in Timișoara. In case you'd like to have a meal or a drink on the spot, you will be provided freshly prepared dishes in the restaurant every day. For those arriving by car parking is available nearby. Available wellness services will provide you the opportunity to refresh yourself, the steam room and indoor pool will also be waiting for you. In case you like doing exercises while you are on a trip, you should definitely try the gym as well. The local bar will provide an ideal location for personal meetings and nice evening chats. Your valuables can be the safely secured in the safe. In case you'd bring your laptop along, you may go online via wireless Internet connection (WiFi) available at the hotel. To learn more about the exact range of services of Ice DYP Resort & Spa Timisoara (including services for an extra fee) and the exact equipment of the rooms, please check the information sheet below.
Payment In order to finalize the reservation you may be required to provide credit card guarantee or advance payment by credit card, depending on the chosen room, date and price.
Arrival, opening hours The earliest time for arrival and check-in is 14:00, the latest time for departure and check-out is 12:00. The personnel of the hotel can speak with you in Romanian and English languages.
Ice DYP Resort & Spa Timisoara rooms Rooms
- Please select a date to see the proper prices!
Accommodation services
Free WiFi in shared places
- Indoor pool
- Steam room
- Jacuzzi
- Pool (Outdoor - seasonally open)
- Finnish sauna
Garden, Bar, Elevator, Safe deposit box, Room service
Own restaurant
Hairdryer, Desk in the room, Mini-bar


text: Author's review It's up to you to guide their super pig friend on a mission to stop the wolves from climbing into their houses. It will take some effort and quick thinking to keep these crafty enemies in their place, but bonuses dropped in by parachutes should keep you going. Features: 40 levels 5 different weapons 8 settings


text:
How to Purchase the Best Longboard Trucks with Respect to Sport Tip
This longboard trucks purchasing guide can help readers in future decisions which are willing to make in case they want to have the comfortable ride. It is vital to note that best longboard trucks are available in various sizes, shapes and construction. Additionally, they are always fitted with various features & they are accessible for several riding styles.
It simply means that there are various things, which people should consider while buying the best longboard truck in case they are new user. Furthermore, there are numerous things which make up longboard, it seems that highly vital among them are the longboard wheel and trucks. In case people are looking for high quality and best longboard trucks, then they should consider the below mentioned information.
It is important to note that when people are making their choice, then they should know that there are two vital problems, which they should trash out for ensuring that they are making the correct choice. Firstly, the highly significant longboard trucks purchasing decision which they should make is simply related to the width of the longboard truck.
Secondly, are people going to select between kingpin trucks or standard kingpin trucks. Nevertheless, below given information can help the in determining that which longboard truck to select in order to satisfy their immediate needs.
Deciding the Width of Longboard Truck
An important factor to consider is perfect width of the longboard to select. Moreover, while searching for truck width, always consider longboard deck. It is important to confirm that both truck width and deck width fit quite well. Once this is attained, people are going to have fun due to superior performance.
It is quite imaginable as there will be a placement between the benefit points of the longboard with truck along with wheel. Due to this, people should confirm that width of truck is always the equal as that of deck. Moreover, it never cause any leading issues when there are various differences in sizes however, people are not going to adore optimum performance they deserve.
Select Between Standard & Reverse Kingpin
People can always choose between the two main kingpins, in order to this, they have to determine the kind of the riding they willing to do with their longboard. Furthermore, if people are searching for longboard, which they are willing to use around parks & their street, they can select standard kingpin because it is perfect when it comes to design.
It is important to note that reverse kingpin is considered as another famous & commonly uses choice. If people are willing to ride in slower speed then they have to pick this type, as it is highly responsive & livelier. Apart from this, truck gives highly stable riding it simply means that it makes for better and easier control even people are riding at very high speed.
Bushing Seat
While purchasing the longboard trucks, people should consider an important factor namely bushing seat, as it is where the longboard truck's capability to turn be contingent. People have to decide that whether they go for close-fitting bushing seat or even they go for open hands-off bushing seats.
While on the other hand, open bushing seats make for additional maneuverability, as people are able to turn at curve and sharp bends without considerable force. This kind is perfect for all those who are willing to involve in freestyle drive, transportation along with carving. Thus, buyers have to consider the above-mentioned factors while making their choice in order to purchase the best longboard truck according to their needs.


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This lovely little pot is made of early plastic and is quite unusual. It measures a mere 1" tall and is in excellent condition. There is U.S. destination First Class shipping included in price.
2 other shoppers have this item in their Cart or Wish List .
Antique Dolls, Smalls, Miniatures, silver charms and more!
Shop online and have treasures delivered to your door!


text: anyone have experience with this powder for 10mm? I use (and LOVE) Longshot for most 10mm loads, but I picked up some autocomp for .380. I have read that longshot isnt the best velocity wise for lighter bullets like 155gr and under. i know visual appearance can be very deceiving and more or less useless in identifying various powders, but AutoComp looks exactly like Longshot, only AC has slightly smaller grains.


text:
Keith Richards Back as Capt. Jack's Dad in 'Pirates of the Caribbean 5'
by Ethan Anderton
November 29, 2013
Source: The Daily Mail
After originally being slated for release on July 10th, 2015, Disney's latest high seas sequel Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales was pushed back to an unknown date in the summer of 2016 instead. At the time, the studio only had an advanced outline from writer Jeff Nathanson, and while they have time to get the script done before the film would have to start shooting in February, they decided not to rush. However, new details have emerged from The Daily Mail (though some seem premature), including the return of Captain Teague, played by Keith Richards, who also happens to be Jack Sparrow's father.
In addition, they also revealed that the villain in the film is Captain Brand, another ghost who is after something called The Trident, which he will use to get revenge on Jack. But why? Well, brand thinks that Jack is responsible for turning his brother into a pirate, a career move which led to his death. Supposedly Christoph Waltz is being eyed for that role, but Bleeding Cool (via ScreenRant) says, "the Waltz part is nothing like a done deal. Indeed, I'd call their story hearsay." That's fine with us, because casting Waltz in yet another villain role at this point feels rather uninspired.
Another character involved in the story will be the daughter of Captain Barbosa (Geoffrey Rush). Her name is Carina Smyth and she's believed to be some kind of witch, but is really just a skilled astronomer. She also ends up being Jack Sparrow's love interest, but our favorite Captain is leery because he doesn't want to upset his old villain. As for that role, Rebecca Hall is in the running, but that's also far from a done deal, so we'll see what happens. Honestly, I can't even remember how the end of the last Pirates of the Caribbean adventure turned out, so I'm not all that interested in this new one.
Follow Alex's main profile on :


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"I used this recipe for week 30 of my food blog, "Travel by Stove." I am attempting to cook on meal from every nation on Earth, and Bermuda is my 30th stop. Please note that I never use any recipe for my blog that I'm not reasonably sure is from authentic or traditional sources, and this recipe has been posted without any alternations or additions to the ingredients. This casserole is definitely more of a dessert than a side and would taste great with some vanilla ice cream or a whipped topping."
Sweet Potato Casserole (Bermuda)
1 recipe photo
READY IN:50mins
Ingredients Nutrition
- 709.77 ml mashed cooked sweet potatoes
- 236.59 ml granulated sugar
- 236.59 ml coconut flakes
- 118.29 ml raisins
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 4.92 ml vanilla extract
- 59.14 ml heavy cream (if needed)
- 236.59 ml packed brown sugar
- 236.59 ml chopped pecans
- 118.29 ml self-rising flour
- 59.14 ml melted butter
- First mix the mashed sweet potatoes with the sugar, coconut, raisins, eggs and vanilla. If it seems too thick, add the cream.
- Spoon the mixture into a well-greased casserole dish.
- Combine the brown sugar with the pecans, flour and butter. Spread over the top of the sweet potatoes.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes (it's ready when the topping is golden brown).
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text:
Plant Systems: Question Preview (ID: 27372)
Below is a preview of the questions contained within the game titled PLANT SYSTEMS: Systems Of Plants .To play games using this data set, follow the directions below. Good luck and have fun. Enjoy! [print these questions]
Play games to reveal the correct answers. Click here to play a game and get the answers.
The main function of a leaf is
a) anchoring a plant
b) producing food through photosynthesis
c) reproduction
d) carrying food and water to the plant
The plant structures that control the exchange of gases into and out of a leaf are the
a) roots
b) stomata
c) epidermis
d) anthers
A plant that has adaptations which include extensive roots, reduced leaves, and thick stems that can store water is probably living in a (an)
a) rainforest
b) tundra
c) desert
d) deciduous forest
The male part of the flower is called the
a) style
b) pistil
c) stigma
d) stamen
What part of the plant carries water and minerals UP the plant?
a) phloem
b) xylem
c) leaves
d) bark
What part of the flower keeps the pollen from blowing away?
a) stamen
b) style
c) stigma
d) ovary
What part of the plant carries food DOWN the plant?
a) phloem
b) xylem
c) roots
d) bark
During the process of photosynthesis, the two end or by-products include:
a) oxygen and carbon dioxide
b) cardon dioxide and water
c) water and carbon dioxide
d) oxygen and glucose
Tissue that carries food and water is called
a) nonvascular tissue
b) vascular tissue
c) merestematic tissue
d) transportive tissue
Which of these characteristics might help a plant species survive in an area with limited sunlight?
a) Bright flowers
b) large leaves
c) thick cuticles
d) short stems
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