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Dwarvish music for Rings movie
A male choir singing in dwarvish, a drummer from an Irish folk band and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra combined to make the soundtrack for The Lord Of The Rings films, it has been revealed. The details were released in an article on music for the $650 million project on American website E Online this week. [More]Posted in Old Main News on October 3, 2001 by xoanon


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subset: commoncrawl


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It's all about 'lights, camera and action' at Tilly Willy's Film becomes 'Acquired Taste' in Washington
Film becomes 'Acquired Taste' in Washington
The setting was perfect.
Tilly Willy's diner in Washington Depot was warm and inviting on a cool, rainy morning earlier this month.
Jars of homemade jam and wrapped candy apples sat amongst stainless steel coffee creamers and vintage milk bottles.
The layout was just what independent filmmaker David Brickman had in mind for the main scenes in his film, "Acquired Taste."
Shooting of major scenes from the film were happening Oct. 27 at 88 Bee Brook Road.
"I'd been scouting for locations around Washington and was coming in to Tilly Willy's every morning for breakfast," said Mr. Brickman, a former Washington resident now living in Los Angeles.
"I got to know Brenda (Williams) and she was perfect for a role in the film and the local feel of the diner was perfect," he said of Ms. Williams, who co-owns Tilly Willy's with her husband, Ty Williams.
Written and produced by Mr. Brickman and Nicholas Charles of London, England, "Acquired Taste" is the story of a young food critic, Nicholas, age 15, who lives in a very small town with limited food options.
An unlikely friendship happens between Nicholas and a master chef, who has left New York City after absorbing scathing reviews of his cooking by big city food critics.
"I came up with the story idea," said Mr. Brickman, 26, a Tufts University and New York Film School graduate. "Nicholas and I developed it."
Brenda Thomas Williams, 45, owner of Tilly Willy's, was nervous during filming last Wednesday. She'd never acted before but said just before shooting began, "I'm up for any challenge."
"My husband, Ty, was all for this," Mrs. Williams said. "I'm a nervous wreck, but it sounded like fun."
Mrs. Williams carefully reviewed her lines in the script with one hand as she poured coffee for two customers with the other. Her daughter, Tegan, 11, takes acting classes and had rehearsed lines with her the night before, she said.
Customers Charley Thompson and Mark Stone looked on with some amusement.
"I'd heard something was going on today," Mr. Stone said. "It's kind of surprising to have this happening in Washington."
The independent film will be a 20-minute short to be shown in festival venues, with a screening locally after completion.
The role of Nicholas is played by Luke Rosen of Manhattan. An experienced actor at 15, Luke has done voice roles in the films "Dear John" and "Serious Men," as well as acting in local theater in New York.


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Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry was involved in a multi-vehicle crash in Oakland, California, Friday.
Curry appeared uninjured from the accident, but his Porsche hit a car that spun out in front of him before being hit from behind by another car. The vehicle was badly damaged, especially on the front end.
Source: Stephen Curry Involved In Multi-Vehicle Crash In Oakland « CBS San Francisco


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So a few other things other than Google I/O have also been happening this week – not many but still a couple such as the HTC One V now being available on Virgin Mobile in the US.
The One V does nothing but prove that an entry level device can be stylish, rocking in with Ice Cream Sandwich and styled on the HTC Legend. The One V is available contract free for a very reasonable $199.99.
Via Android Central
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Many people prefer the convenience of their own exercise machine, in the privacy and comfort of their home, to joining a gym or exercise class. But which exercise machine is best for you?
There are 4 main types of home exercise machines that people are most familiar with:
- Treadmills
- Exercise bikes
- Rowing machines
- Elliptical cross trainer
Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses. The best one for you will depend on your personal circumstances, but we hope our guide below will help…
Treadmills are the most popular type of exercise machine. If you can walk, you can use a treadmill.
They come in many different models – from basic treadmills aimed at people who just want to do some gentle walking, to high tech machines with computerised programs that adjust the speed and incline automatically. You can event get programs that replicate populate running courses around the world! How about doing the London or New York marathon without leaving your lounge room?
Benefits of a treadmill
- You can run even when the weather is too cold, or too hot, to go out on the street.
- They're good if you don't feel safe running in your neighborhood at night, and don't have time to run during the day.
- The machine controls your pace. Unlike bikes, rowers and cross trainers, you have to run at the speed dictated by the treadmill. This can be a great way to force you to work hard.
Disadvantages of treadmills
- They are only good for running or walking, so they don't provide any upper body exercise.
- Running can place a lot of strain on the joints, especially the knees, hips and ankles (although treadmills provide a lower impact option compared to roads or footpaths).
- The machine controls your pace (yes, we know we had this as a benefit as well…). Unlike bikes, rowers and cross trainers, you have to run at the speed dictated by the treadmill. This can be difficult to do if you are just starting a fitness program and you may end up reducing the speed of the machine, resulting in less fitness benefits.
Treadmills are an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned runners but they are higher impact than the other machines and don't work the upper body.
Exercise bikes
Exercise bikes are incredibly easy to use. You don't even need to know how to ride a bike to use one – you just sit and peddle.
Benefits of exercise bikes
- Great for starting out – you don't need to be fit to start using one.
- They are safe – no risk of tripping or falling.
- You control of the intensity – speed up or slow down depending on how you feel.
- They are low impact, making them good for people with knee, ankle or hips issues.
Disadvantages of exercise bikes
- Exercise bikes don't work the upper body.
Rowing machines
Rowers provide an intensive workout that is low impact and work both the upper and lower body.
A good rowing machine can be programmed to set a workout with varying resistance but unlike a treadmill, adjusting your speed means that you can control the pace of the workout.
Benefits of rowing machines
- Modern rowers provide an excellent workout which works both the upper and lower body.
- You can complete either long endurance sessions or fast and intensive sessions.
- Being in full control of the speed and movement, and also being seated, means that there is minimal risk of injury.
Disadvantages of rowing machines
- Poor technique could result in lower back problems, however, once you learn the proper rowing technique this should not be an issue.
Elliptical cross trainers
You should always try out an elliptical cross trainer before buying one for your home. The motion and size of the machines vary and you need one that is the right size and fit for you. Get professional advice.
Benefits of cross trainers
- Cross trainers work the upper body and lower body.
- They are low impact – better for the knees and ankles.
- You control the intensity of the workout.
- You can both push and pull the handles on a cross trainer to work your muscles in both directions (unlike a rowing machine where you only pull).
- Injuries are rare due to the low impact and 'feet on the ground' action of the cross trainer.
- You can control the speed and resistance and therefore the intensity of the workout.
Disadvantages of cross trainers
- Some people have trouble getting used to the action. If you don't enjoy your exercise you won't stay motivated.
- They can be more expensive and more costly to maintain due to the large moving parts. Check the warranty and repair arrangements – do they come to you or will you have to ship it to a repairer at your own expense?
The best exercise machine for you is the one that you enjoy using the most.
Treadmills have the highest impact and therefore the highest risk of injury, but walking and running are great cardio and fat-burning exercises.
Bikes, rowers and cross trainers provide a great alternative. Bikes are the simplest, easiest and cheapest! However, rowers and cross trainers provide both upper and lower body workouts in the same piece of equipment.
We hope this helps you choose your first home fitness machine.
Consider all the options available. Get some expert advice, go into the shop – take your running shoes – and try out the different machines.
At Mr Treadmill we're sure there is a machine just right for everyone!
Mr Treadmill – Where quality and service matters.


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Organization Profile
Paideia Educational Services, Inc.https://www.paideiaedu.org/
Paideia Educational Services, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to providing free educational services to those in need across the state of Maryland. As noted in its name, Paideia - the Greek root for education - is dedicated towards providing the tools and resources necessary to help the next generation succeed academically. At Paideia, we focus on developing students' skills, knowledge, and techniques in both classroom and career-oriented settings. We've developed comprehensive curricula on academic subjects such as mathematics, reading, and science, as well as career-based subjects such as computer science and financial literacy. Through 1 on 1 tutoring and group classes, our mission is to provide young students with a well-rounded education and inspire them to reach for the stars.


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January 16, 2019. The Asia Blockchain and Crypto Association (ABACA) announces the launch of CEZEX, a security trading platform on January 28, 2019. It will engage in offshore cryptocurrency trading operations based in the Cagayan Economic Zone.
As a holder of the Financial Technology Solutions and Offshore Virtual Currency (FTSOVC) license granted by the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA), CEZEX can facilitate offshore users to trade fiat to crypto, security tokens backed by assets (like stocks, bonds, etc), and even derivatives.
It is important to note that the license granted to CEZEX only allows it to engage with non-Philippine residents, made possible by the laws governing the Cagayan Economic Zone. Other companies who wish to engage in crypto-to-fiat activities must secure a license from the Philippine Central Bank (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas – BSP).
CEZEX is backed by digital asset exchange operator Pinnacle Digital, Singapore-based fintech investment firm IPE Global, and Softbank-affiliated venture capital fund – SB Kaikaku Fund. It will collaborate with 4 sponsors or nominated advisors to introduce and list security tokens and digital assets.
CEZEX claims to have the highest levels of KYC and AML compliance, an important requirement before securing crypto licenses in the Philippines.
ABACA – Asia Blockchain and Crypto Association is a self-regulatory organization within the Cagayan Economic Zone composed by various fintech, blockchain, and crypto companies with the purpose of self-regulating and self-monitoring the code of ethics and compliance best practices within the economic zone.
As of press time, there are 20 offshore crypto exchange license holders granted by the Cagayan Economic Zone. Check out the updated list here.
This article originally appeared on BitPinas: CEZEX To Launch At Cagayan Economic Zone This January 2019
Read More:
Useful Resources:
- List of Licensed Virtual Currency Exchanges
- List of Cryptocurrency Exchanges in the Philippines
- List of CEZA-Approved Offshore Crypto Exchanges
- List of Cryptocurrency Wallets
- List of Bitcoin Wallets
- List of LoyalCoin Partners
- Philippines Blockchain Business Directory
- List of Philippine Blockchain Events
- Bitcoin to PHP
- Cryptocurrency Charts in Pesos
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Listing Status
- 1042
- , Currently available
- Sale of patent
- Exclusive license with right to enforce
- Exclusive license
- Non-exclusive license
- Region/country license
- Field-of-use license
- 32 Issued Patents - US
Patent Portfolio for Sale:Laser Pattern Generation and Control
Primary Application of the Technology
Other Potential Applications
The seller would like to be granted a license back.
Additional Information
Patent Summary
Class 356: Optics: Measuring And Testing
Methods and apparatus (1) for analyzing light to measure or test its characteristics, such as intensity, color and polarization; (2) for determining the optical or nonoptical properties of materials or articles by noting, as by inspection, measurement, or test the effect produced by the materials or articles on light associated therewith; and (3) for measuring the dimensions of structures or the spatial relationships such as distances or angle bearings of spaced points by comparison of the respective properties (usually direction or spatial position) of the light from these points or by comparison of the properties of these lights with some scale or standard. The light analyzing includes or is for spectroscopy, interference, polarization, beam direction or pattern, focal position of a light source, shade or color, and photometers. The material or article properties determined are or involve crystal or gem examination, material strain analysis, blood analysis, optical pyrometers, egg candling, cutting blade sharpness, oil testing, document verification, flatness, lens or reflector testing, refraction testing, monitoring moving webs or fabrics, light transmission or absorption, light reflection, inspection for flaws or imperfections in materials, and thread counting. The dimensioning and spatial relationship determination includes triangulation by a light beam, contour plotting, range or height finders, motion stopping, velocity or velocity/height measuring, sighting where the optical element or reticle moves with the sighted object, particle size determination, particle light scattering, electrophoresis, angle measuring or axial alignment, mensuration or configuration comparison, alignment in a lateral direction, and fiducial instruments.Subclass 124: LENS OR REFLECTIVE IMAGE FORMER TESTING
Subclass 508: For orientation or alignment
Class 355: Photocopying
Apparatus and methods for photos: graphically copying information from an original or carrier that is not classified elsewhere, generally employing a concentrated source of light and an image receiving medium with a photosensitive emulsion surface. Various plural and composite types of copies are included such as those involving plural projected images including multicolor and duplex.Subclass 51: Reflector between original and photo-sensitive paper
Subclass 53: Step and repeat
Subclass 77: Methods
Class 359: Optical: Systems And Elements
Optical elements included in this class are: Lenses; Polarizers; Diffraction gratings; Prisms; Reflectors; Filters; Projection screens; Optical Modulators; Optical Demodulators. Among the optical systems included in this class are: Compound lens systems; Light reflecting signalling systems (e.g., retroreflectors); stereoscopic systems; Binocular devices; Systems of lenticular elements; Systems involving light interference; Glare reducing systems; Light dividing and combining systems; Light control systems (e.g., light valves); building illumination with natural light; Systems for protecting or shielding elements; Optical systems whose operation depends upon polarizing, diffracting, dispersing, reflecting, or refracting light; kaleidoscopes. Further included are certain apertures, closures, and viewing devices of a specialized nature which involve no intentional reflection, refraction, or filtering of light rays. This class also includes optical elements combined with another type of structure(s) to constitute an optical element combined with a nonoptical structure or a perfection or improvement in the optical element.Subclass 237: OPTICAL MODULATOR
Subclass 285: Acousto-optic
Subclass 290: By changing physical characteristics (e.g., shape, size or contours) of an optical element
Subclass 305: Acousto-optic
Subclass 364: With curved reflective imaging element
Subclass 366: Concave, convex combination
Subclass 558: DIFFRACTION
Subclass 572: Reflection grating (e.g., retrodirective)
Subclass 629: By partial reflection at beam splitting or combining surface
Subclass 635: Drawing or plotting aid
Subclass 636: Including full reflection and transmission of a beam at different portions of a beam divider
Subclass 640: Including prismatic element
Subclass 649: Projection type
Subclass 650: Having four components
Subclass 651: Having less than four components
Subclass 669: With prism anamorphoser
Subclass 683: With mechanical compensation
Subclass 710: Cylindrical
Subclass 727: Including concave or convex reflecting surface
Subclass 731: With concave and convex reflectors in series
Subclass 771: Four components
Subclass 831: PRISM (INCLUDING MOUNT)
Subclass 837: With refracting surface
Subclass 839: With a transmitting property
Subclass 850: Plural mirrors or reflecting surfaces
Class 396: Photography
Photographic apparatus, generally for recording a picture made by a source of light on a photographic medium. It includes fluid-treating apparatus for development of film, a removable film-holder unit, hood, camera housing, camera setting indicator and certain accessories related to photography not otherwise provided for such as studio structure, camera mounting or rest, camera attachment, retouching, or burnishing device. Non-chemical processes involving photographic apparatus are included in this class.Subclass 430: Convertible to developed image projector or viewer
Subclass 548: LINE GENERATION
Class 347: Incremental Printing Of Symbolic Information
Processes and apparatus for conveying information by selectively creating on a medium a visibly distinguishable symbol or mark composed of a plurality of portions; created portion by portion as, for example, by pixels or dots. The symbol or mark may be an alphanumeric character or an image.Subclass 233: Plural beam scan
Subclass 239: Specific light modulator
Subclass 241: Specific optical structure
Subclass 243: Including deflector
Subclass 244: Specific lens
Subclass 251: Tone marking
Subclass 253: By varying intensity of light beam
Subclass 254: By varying dotting density
Subclass 255: Specific light modulator
Subclass 256: Specific optical structure
Subclass 258: Having lens
Subclass 259: Including deflector
Subclass 260: Having deflector
Subclass 261: Polygon
Class 345: Computer Graphics Processing And Selective Visual Display Systems
Processes and apparatus for selective electrical control of two or more light-generating or light-controlling display elements* in accordance with a received or stored image data signal. The image data includes character, graphical information or display attribute data. The image data may include, for example, information data from a peripheral input device, from the reception of a television signal, from the recognition of image data, or from the generation or creation of image data by a computer.Subclass 204: DISPLAY DRIVING CONTROL CIRCUITRY
Subclass 206: Having common base or substrate
Subclass 440: Graph generating
Subclass 441: Shape generating
Subclass 502: Plural graphics processors
Subclass 536: Plural storage devices
Subclass 567: Using decoding
Subclass 571: Memory addresses arranged in matrix row and column addresses)
Subclass 690: Intensity or color driving control (e.g., gray scale)
Class 358: Facsimile And Static Presentation Processing
Communication or reproduction of a static image or sequence of static images in which the local light, or density variations composing the image do not vary with time by a method or apparatus involving at least one of the following steps: (1) scanning a static image to capture an image-containing area by resolving it into an area; (2) communication of an image-representative signal or image-representative data over any supporting communication network; or (3) reproduction of an image-containing area in response to an image-representative signal or image-representative image data by reproducing a corresponding image area which at least one of the two dimensions is elemental, simultaneously or in a sequence. In this class, a facsimile system or method is a system or method for the communication or reproduction of an arbitrarily composed image in which the local light, or density variations composing the image do not vary with time, such as documents maps, charts, photographs, etc., but not motion picture film or video.Subclass 1.8: Dot matrix array (e.g., printheads, etc.)
Subclass 1.9: Attribute control
Subclass 296: Recording apparatus
Subclass 3.01: Multi-level image reproduction (e.g., gray level reproduction)
Subclass 3.06: Halftoning (e.g., a pattern of print elements used to represent a gray level)
Subclass 3.24: Adaptive image reproduction
Class 250: Radiant Energy
This class provides for all methods and apparatus for using, generating, controlling or detecting radiant energy, combinations including such methods or apparatus, subcombinations of same and accessories therefore not classifiable elsewhere.Subclass 234: Means for moving optical system
Subclass 492.1: IRRADIATION OF OBJECTS OR MATERIAL
Class 73: Measuring And Testing
Processes and apparatus for making a measurement of any kind or for making a test of any kind, and takes all such subject matter not provided for in other classes. The term "test" includes inspection, processes and apparatus for determining qualities by inspection being included where not provided for in other classes. This class is the generic class for sampling and takes all sampling apparatus and processes not otherwise provided.Subclass 37.5: Dimension, shape, or size
Class 257: Active Solid-State Devices (E.G., Transistors, Solid-State Diodes)
This class provides for active solid-state electronic devices, that is, electronic devices or components that are made up primarily of solid materials, usually semiconductors, which operate by the movement of charge carriers - electrons or holes - which undergo energy level changes within the material and can modify an input voltage to achieve rectification, amplification, or switching action, and are not classified elsewhere.Subclass E21.028: Using laser (EPO)
Class 430: Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition, Or Product Thereof
This is the generic class for: (1) Forming the likeness of an object, or an instrumented or discernible phenomenon, in a chemically defined receiver or in a receiver wherein radiation produces a chemical reaction, by use of radiation. (2) Finishing an image by chemical processing regardless how formed. (3) A radiation sensitive receiver, composition, or product disclosed solely for radiation imagery chemistry, and process of making same. (4) A nonradiation sensitive-receiver, composition, or product. (5) An imaged product by a process or employing a receiver, composition, or product.Subclass 5: Radiation mask
Subclass 296: Electron beam imaging


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Welcome to episode 19 of AI Mentors, the podcast that helps you pave the way for a successful career in the world of Data Science and AI.
Powered by Alldus International the premium AI Workforce Solutions, our top consultant's interview AI Leaders and Data Scientists from around the world about their personal journey to becoming a front-runner in AI. Guests offer practical advice to those interested in becoming a leader in Data Science.
Today's guest is Jim Harper, who is the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer at Sonde Health. Sonde Health is a digital medicine company based in Boston who are developing a voice-based technology platform with the potential to transform the way we monitor and diagnose mental and physical health.
Sonde Health's goal is to build new ways to follow mental and physical health to help you and your care team understand your health more completely so you know when and how to get the right help. They have the potential to advance their understanding of what it means to be and feel well.
In the show, Jim will tell you about:
- His interesting research in biotechnology
- Making the move from academia to industry
- Top tips on working with the problem you are looking to solve
- The importance of working with small data
- Being passionate about your career
- The fascinating projects at Sonde Health
To find out more about Jim and the work at Sonde Health, check out www.sondehealth.com. You can also connect with him on Linkedin and Twitter @jamesdharper.
What were your key learns from Jim's podcast? What takeaways did you gain from the show to help in your AI and Data Science aspirations? I would love to hear your thoughts so please leave a comment below.
If you would like to hear more from the AI Mentors podcast then please subscribe and don't forget to like and share with your friends on social media.
Subscribe to the AI Mentors Podcast:
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AI Mentors is brought to you by Alldus International, covering your businesses consulting, staffing and networking needs across the United States and Europe. Alldus can help you discover how Data Science and AI can transform your company with an unrivalled network of C-Suite executives and Senior AI Professionals.
Become a member of the Alldus community and enjoy and enjoy our AI Meetups. Once a month our community gathers to hear from some of the leading experts in the world of Data Science and AI. Our speakers come from all over the world including Boston, New York, Dublin and Berlin.
We also have the AI Mentors podcast where our experts will provide mentoring to Alldus members and of course, the AI in Acton podcast where each week we have guests from all over the world talking us through their education, career and more.
Become an Alldus member and get the Alldus advantage by signing up to our newsletter below


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Many business owners have more wealth tied up in the business than they do in their house. Given that 70% of business owners plan to use their business as the primary source of retirement, this asset needs to be leveraged to maximise its value to help owners achieve their wealth goals.
There is no doubt that, as the average age of small business owners increases and baby boomers continue to reach the age of retirement, the age-old laws of supply and demand will come into play. There will be an increasing supply of businesses available for acquisition, and a diminishing number of interested buyers.
In this marketplace business owners will need to present their business in an appealing, professional manner to stand out from the competition and achieve the maximum return. These are the two likely scenarios you will face when you're trying to sell your business in a crowded market place:
It stands to reason that the more you can sell your business for, the more you will have available for your retirement. That is why you need to understand the business sales process and work on a plan to maximise the attractiveness of your business to potential purchasers. To achieve a successful sale a lot of the work needs to be done 12-36 months before putting your business on the market!
Buyers look for a return on their money. The higher the perceived return on investment the more attractive the business. And of course the more attractive the business the more buyers are prepared to pay.
Attractiveness will be relevant to the type of buyer and the reason they are buying.
When an owner/operator considers buying a business they are essentially buying themselves a job. The average spending of these buyers would likely be $100,000 to $1,000,000 and any business for sale over this category may be unattractive.
A multinational or large company that buys a business for strategic reasons will rarely spend under $1,000,000. A multinational would not look at a business unless it had enough profit and upside to justify the stringent due diligence, legal and accounting fees.
Within the owner/operator category there are essentially two types of people. These include buyers which are purchasing for leisure and hobby reasons and those which are buying to "get ahead".
The former will be made up of people that are reasonably well off and are either in the twilight of their careers or are looking to take it a bit easy. They are essentially looking at buying a job in an
industry which they enjoy working in. They want good profits and a job that is not stressful in a situation where they don't need to work too hard.
Owner/operators that are buying to "get ahead" will be after maximum returns. Their choice of industry is dependent upon growth, profitability and their experience. They are not concerned about working hard or long hours as long as there are solid returns.
Knowing that a lot of preparation needs to go into your business sale in order to achieve the best result is a first step. In order to get started, you can educate yourself on the process by
Books: There are many books on the subject of Exit & Succession. You could consider any of the following books that will help you make informed decisions about your future:
In terms of practical self help solutions. Ascend Business Partners has a range of software that will help you to improve the value of the business. This includes titles on Business Planning, Job Descriptions, Policies & Procedures, Performance Review, Information Memorandum Writer and more. We also have a range of free online tools that you can use to assess your business readiness and attractiveness for sale or exit. Check them out at: https://ascendpartners.com.au/exit-readiness-calculator/
You may need to appoint a number of advisors throughout the process of leaving your business. Some of the areas you may need professional help with include:
We can help you by co-ordinating the entire exit planning process and engaging the right advisor at the right time for the right price. It is critical that you start the process from 12-36 months prior to selling the business.
Ascend Business Partnersare experts in helping business owners build their business and supporting them during the sale, exit or transition process. Our Managing Partner, Greg Johnson, is a Certified Practicing Accountant, Certified Exit Planner and Business Broker. Our focus is on creating exceptional personal and business outcomes for business owners by assisting our clients to plan, design and implement their ultimate exit and succession strategy.
Contact Ascend Business Partners today on 03 8794 7777 or email@example.com to have a discussion about your business and personal goals. Or simply book a free 1-hour "Time to REFIRE" workshop with Greg!


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No summer/ floating away
I live in WI and with this weather control our farmers are screwed. We have rain everyday! Can cut our grass due to the water table is so high that the water sits on top of the grass. CDC predicts crazy out breaks , we'll stop the damn rain! The mosquitos are going to b rampade! No one in our community has opened their pool and don't know if we will! I've never seen this much rain, no sun and cold. This isn't just hear. Arizona is below freezing at night. My brother usually says it's in the 90's by now. Cali. Has hail and cold! Idk who is the person/'s playing with Mother Nature but knock it off! Haven't they heard that you don't play with Mother Nature or her rath will b upon you! O yeah, they don't believe in God! I do and I know this isn't anything but natural!


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5 Rules to Preventing Shoulder Related Injuries Due to Over Head Throwing
With Spring nearly in full affect people like you and me want to take advantage of the warmer weather, and what better way to do that then by playing your favorite outdoor sports again? After all, if you are like me, there is no better feeling then grabbing the good ole baseball mitt, shaking off the cobwebs and playing a little catch. But there are a few important considerations to think about related to your arm health, especially if you haven't thrown during the winter months. Improper preparation and/or over use of a weak arm can lead to some serious short and long term throwing injuries.
Whether you are a competitive athlete, parent trying to get your kid ready for a sports season, or just want to have a spring time catch with a buddy, there are a few things one must do to ensure that you are not hurting yourself. Rules to Preventing Shoulder Related Injuries Due to Over Head Throwing dives into 5 important rules that will change the way you feel and perform when throwing over head, whether it is a baseball, football, or even a lacrosse stick.
Rule #1: General Warm Up
The first rule is to perform a general warm up that involves the entire body. After all, most of a throwers velocity and strength comes from the lower extremities and core. Before beginning to throw, it is important to perform a general warm up to increase heart rate and stimulate blood flow to the legs, trunk and shoulders. The easiest way to accomplish a proper warm up is going for a light jog for at least 5 min or until your body begins to sweat.
Once the body is nice and warm it is vital to focus on hip and shoulder mobility as well as trunk and scapular stability.
Rule #2: Dynamic Warm Up
A Dynamic warm up is the 2nd rule to follow and is basically a more specific warm up that involves movement patterns and body structures related to the activity about to be performed. In this case with throwing, you would want to wake up the rotator cuff muscles of the shoulder, scapular stabilizers of the upper back and core muscles in the hips. Examples of theses movements are: Skipping, Crow hops, Shuffles, Windmills, Walking Lunges, Arm Circles, etc.
Rule #3: Graded Throwing
The 3rd rule to follow is going to be your Graded Throwing. Graded throwing is the act of throwing with the intention to gradually progress distance and velocity of your throws. Start from a short a distance and low velocity, any where from 10 to 30 feet, and slowly increase in increments of 10-30 feet until the ball reaches your partner on a bounce or roll. Each incremental distance should be performed for 10 to 15 throws and should not exceed more than 10 for longer distances. After the peak distance has been reached, start working back to the starting point the same way.
Rule #4: Cool Down
The next rule is one in which most people will break time and time again, however is equally as important as the rest, and that is rule number 4 - The Cool Down. The importance of a cool down is to ensure that the body replenishes with fresh oxygen and removes any waste by-product from the stress imposed on the arm from throwing. The cool down should include a light jog around a track or field once or twice and then stretching of all the major muscle groups of the body.
Rule #5: Ice & Rest
Last but not least, rule number 5, is Ice and Rest. Icing your shoulder for at least 15 but no more than 20 minutes is beneficial because it will reduce inflammation and promote healing. Protecting your rotator cuffs, bicep, and pecs from over use can help prevent a nagging chronic injury such as tendonitis or impingement syndrome or worst of all, an acute tear. Rest periods are preferably 24 hours between throwing days however, for many competitive young athletes during the season, this is not realistic. This is why implementing proactive strategies are critical to preventing injury and preserving your ability to have fun each time you want to go out a play a game or just some catch in the park.
(Steps Vs. Rules - Skipping Steps is cute BUT breaking Rules is BAD!)
For more information and more in depth explanation into dynamic warm up exercises, graded throwing, and cool down stretches please do not hesitate to contact our Hoboken, Jersey City or Weehawken location to speak with me!
Sincerely here for your health,
Adrian Inhulsen, PTA, CSCS


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Keystage 1 Curriculum
Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2) aims to build on the solid foundations established within the Early Years, move the children forwards in their knowledge and understanding whilst preparing them for Key Stage 2.
As the children move into Key Stage 1 Year 1 from Early Years they begin to access the Primary Curriculum. For some children, this may have happened towards the end of the their time in the Early Years Unit, if they were ready, whilst for other children the staff will continue to use the Developmental Matters document. The Primary Curriculum document is used throughout the rest of their time at Archibald.
Early Years to Year 1
The staff aim to provide a smooth transition between the Early Years Unit and Year 1. The staff work very closely together and spend time with the children to ensure that they get to know your child, their interests and where they are at in their personal learning journey. This ensures that our staff can provide key learning experiences and opportunities for the children to help them secure their understanding and continue to move forwards. In the summer term we hold a transition morning where the children in Early Years work with in their new classrooms and we also hold a parents' evening to keep you informed about the changes between the two phases.
Archibald First School Key Stage 1 Curriculum Objectives Taken from Chris Quigley's Essentials Curriculum
Click here to access the New Primary Curriculum which has been in place since September 2014.


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Message # 762 Resolving neighbor disputes
(mp3 file)
When a problem with your neighbor has you at the end of your rope, here are the steps to take:
First, try to talk it over. Don't overlook the obvious. Before you report your problem neighbor to authorities, approach the neighbor, who may not even know about what's bugging you.
For instance, the barking Dalmatian that is keeping you awake nights may make noise only when no one is home; the owner who works the night shift may not know that spot is creating havoc. And your neighbor who worked so hard to paint that neon jungle scene on the eight-foot fence between your yards probably has no idea that it's less than lovely to your eyes.
Assume that the neighbor doesn't know there is a problem, and would like to be told. Talking to your neighbor calmly and reasonably is an essential first step. Even if the two of you do end up in court eventually, a judge is likely to be more sympathetic if you at least made an attempt to work things out first.
So, while it's unpleasant to approach another person to discuss the thorn in your side, you have nothing to lose from it. And if you approach the task tactfully, you may even be pleasantly surprised to learn your neighbor is willing to work toward a solution.
Let's look at some specific rules to follow that could make or break your attempts to approach your neighbor.
1. Open lines of communication. Long before you complain, before you even have a problem, get out there and meet your neighbors. The long-range benefit of simply being able to call someone by name, of laying even the tiniest groundwork of good will is enormous when a problem arises. This is something every one of us should do - and do it now. Too busy or too shy? Making this effort is more important than your excuses.
2-Never be hasty. When a disturbance occurs, there are several reasons for not diving into the water too soon. Acting in anger, whether it's racing over in your bathrobe and slippers, screaming through the telephone, or bringing in the police, reveals your own lack of control and guarantees disastrous resentment.
But even more important, you need to wait to know just how serious the problem is - whether it will be ongoing, or a single or occasional annoyance. You need more facts and therefore more time.
Suppose a new neighbor moves in and immediately throws a rowdy party that is still going strong at 2 a.m. you rush over, bristling with outrage and try to stop the party. Later you learn that the affair was a giant housewarming or an annual birthday party, that this neighbor is a quiet recluse the rest of the time. What have you done? You've spoiled your future relationship.
This same rule of wait-and-see applies when a barking dog appears on the scene. Maybe the neighbor is dog-sitting for one night, or trying a new dog outside, and will learn that it doesn't work -- without your help.
Stereo suddenly blasting? The neighbor could have invested several thousand dollars in a new system and wants to be enveloped in it just once for the experience.
Screaming fight next door? Well, people fight occasionally and in the heat of the battle they forget about the neighbors.
We're talking about some tolerance here, but also about good common sense. You may want to turn up your own volume on a rare occasion.
Instead of running to the phone, start a list of what's happened and when for your own satisfaction. If the problem recurs, now you've been tolerant, even if it means losing a little sleep. The third time you'll be in a better position to take action, and your list may eventually prove useful.
3. Choose neutral ground. While you're exercising all this tolerance and taking your time, observe the neighbor's habits. What time does she get home from work? Does he water his yard at a certain hour? When does the trash go out? How about shopping trips or doing laundry?
What you're looking for is a common ground, a place to meet that is not your territory and not your neighbor's. A parking lot, sidewalk, laundry room, store or the boundary of properties are all possibilities. Choose a neutral spot for your chat, to place you on equal footing and head off territorial defensiveness.
4. Talk about something else first. Try a subject of common interest. "Do you think it will ever rain?" "Do you think the city will pass that parks referendum?" "How about those raiders?" get the conversation going before you plunge into the complaint. Once you are talking, you can gently shift into the problem.
5. Use a question as an answer. Imagine the perfect scenario (and you can achieve it). You and the neighbor are out, standing side by side, watering your parched plants, and complaining about the weather together. You look up at the neighbor's monster tree loaded with dead menacing limbs, and innocently ask, "What do you think we should do about this tree?" You've asked for an opinion instead of stating, "By golly, I hate that tree of yours; do something about it or else."
How about: "Now that the weather is cooler and the windows are all open, do you think we should all turn down our TVs a little?" or: "The walls in this building are so thin that the sound passes straight through them. Is there anything you can think of that we could do about it?"
With conversation first, common interests and neutral ground, the neighbor may help solve the problem, and you have completely avoided any confrontation at all.
6. State the actual complaint. There are those neighbors who don't get the message or don't want to, and by now you know whom you are dealing with. If you must go further, try: "I'm sure you would want to know that your stereo (or tree, or collection of old cars in the yard) is disturbing me." Explain why you are disturbed, for example that you couldn't sleep Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday night (remember your list), or you fear the tree, or you think the yard affects property values on the street.
Don't be afraid to say you are sorry, that you hate to complain. You really are sorry you have to complain, and if you say it, then it's easier for the neighbor to also say it.
Have a solution to the problem already in your mind, and offer it. For instance, "Would you please be willing to keep the TV low after nine o'clock when I have to sleep?" "Would you be willing to trim this tree before it causes severe damage (or could we trim it together)?"
Be ready for a complaint against you; the neighbor may desperately grab for one. Head it off and keep it friendly by offering something like: "Please tell me about anything I may be doing that is annoying you."
7. Show your own consideration for the neighbor. If for some reason you can't use neutral ground, go over to the neighbor's at a reasonable time when you are unlikely to disturb them - a weekend afternoon for example. If the problem is affecting someone else too (and it often is), go together and complain together.
Something as basic as what you wear can affect the outcome. Keep it casual. If you come calling dressed to the hilt in a coat and tie and the neighbor is in cut-off jeans, equal footing disappears and defensiveness is instinctive.
8. Never complain anonymously. Sure, it's a lot easier to stick a note under somebody's door than to confront them. If it's necessary to complain in writing as a first step, take a deep breath and sign your name. When others are affected, get everyone you can to sign with you.
An anonymous note, phone call or report to the authorities can make the situation much worse than it already is. The neighbor can't respond, and this goes against human nature. The result is a neighbor who feels isolated, can no longer trust anyone, becomes suspicious of everyone - a bad neighbor.
Sometimes all this courtesy and common sense just doesn't work. And some neighbors can be nasty, mean and dangerous. Then you turn to the law for help.
But most of the time, these steps do work. Instead of developing ulcers, or having to deal later with a situation that escalates into warfare, you'll have solved the problem through your own thoughtful efforts. And you'll have gained what we all want in our lives - good neighbors.
Next, check the local law. If your neighbor is uncooperative, find out whether the annoying behavior violates any local ordinances. The best way to check out what your city or county ordinances cover is to go to the public library or the county law library -- usually located near the courthouse -- and read them yourself. Make copies of anything you think is pertinent.
Once you have a copy of an ordinance that covers the problem, your troubles may be almost over. In most circumstances, just presenting a copy to your neighbor will resolve the problem.
If your first attempts at talking things over face-to-face have given you little hope, write your neighbor a letter. Maintain a calm and reasonable tone, but re-emphasize the need to resolve the unpleasant situation -- and enclose a copy of any ordinance that proves it's also against the law.
Next, try mediation. A mediator will not make a decision for you, but will help you and your neighbor decide on the best way to resolve your problem. Mediators, both professional and volunteers, are trained to listen to both sides, identify problems, keep everyone focused on the real problems, and suggest compromises. Going through the process helps both people feel that they've been heard - and often puts people on better terms at once.
The key to mediation is that unlike a lawsuit, it is not an adversarial process. You do not go to mediation to argue your side. No judge-like person dictates what you must do. The outcome is in the hands of those who have the dispute; until both agree there can be no resolution.
A frequent consequence of mediation is that those involved in the dispute discover that the problem they think they have a noisy dog, an encroaching fence isn't the main problem at all. It may turn out that the reason one neighbor hasn't controlled her dog better is that she's angry about the other's tree, which drops a yard-full of leaves onto her side of the fence. If one neighbor trims some of the far-hanging branches, he may find that his neighbor suddenly finds a way to make her dog behave.
The best place to look for a mediator is a community mediation group. City and county governments sometimes offer mediation services of their own, or can refer you to organizations that do. Call the courthouse information number to find out. The small claims court clerk, or even radio or television stations that take "action line" calls, also may be able to refer you to a mediation service. Finally, many state and local bar associations publish directories of dispute resolution services throughout the state.
Next, call in the authorities. When you have tried but failed to solve a problem yourself, it may be time to call in authorities. For example, if you have politely and repeatedly asked your next-door neighbor to turn down the rock music and instead, the stereo goes up another notch, you may find that you have to finally call the police. Many towns have a special noise unit that responds to complaints.
For a first complaint, the police will probably warn the person violating the ordinance. If the noise continues or is repeated, the noise-maker will be cited and fined. Fines are usually levied according to how many violations there have been for instance, $100 for the first, $200 the second time, $300 the third.
The city or township controls many other common problems that neighbors have with one another, so you may need to report a violation to the appropriate city department. The clerk at city hall will know which department to call, and many departments are in the phone book under the city government listing. For example, offices of the health department, animal control and zoning board will be listed separately, especially in larger cities.
When someone complains about an ordinance violation, the city or county can warn the offender, impose a fine, or take measures to correct the problem. Sometimes, if the person is uncooperative, the city will correct the problem - for instance, clean up objectionable rubbish - and bill the person responsible. In serious situations, the city or county attorney can sue the person to force compliance with the law.
If necessary, sue the neighbor. Whenever someone else's unreasonable action interferes with your enjoyment of your property, it is considered a "private nuisance." if your neighbor blasts a stereo or lets a dog howl all night, you can sue the neighbor for maintaining the nuisance.
Most people are very reluctant to sue their neighbors, and they should be. Litigation is often time-consuming and expensive, and it's practically guaranteed to wreck whatever remains of a civil relationship between neighbors. But if all else fails, consider taking your complaint to a small claims court judge. If you sue for money alone, you can use small claims court. It's easy, inexpensive - and you don't need a lawyer to go through the process. Having the neighbor ordered to pay you money can be amazingly effective in regaining your quiet, your peace of mind and getting a persistent problem cleared up in a hurry. The amount you can sue for in small claims court is limited in California to $7,500.
Once you have sued and won in small claims court, if the noisiness or other problem doesn't stop, you can sue again and again as long as it persists. Also, if other neighbors are affected and perturbed, get together with them and encourage them o use small claims court too. If 10 people sue for $7,500 each, that's $75,000. Do it again - another $75,000. Such large cumulative court awards may be the best persuasion for getting the problematic neighbor to stop the offense.
To get a court order making somebody stop an activity, you must sue in regular trial court - not small claims court - which probably means hiring a lawyer.
This SmartLaw message is based on adapted excerpts appearing in the Los Angeles times from the book "Neighbor Law: Fences, Trees, Boundaries And Noise" by Cora Jordan, published by Nolo Press in Berkeley, California. To obtain a copy contact Nolo Press toll-free at 1-800-728-3555 or visit them online at www.nolo.com
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Posted on November 11, 2019 in Sports Betting
Basketball enjoys a rich history in the USA and the game is enjoyed by millions of fans around the world. So popular is the game that it is not uncommon for punters to congregate online and share tips in public forums.
These internet forums are fantastic sources for greyhound betting tips. The general impression one gets from such websites is that basketball punters are a friendly bunch that are willing to share their top picks and tips. Continue reading →


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The BET Awards show weekend extravaganza has finally arrived! Last night everyone that is somebody came out to LA for a long weekend of celebrating the annual BET Awards show, hosted by the always funny Kevin Hart.
The official kick off party was to benefit HIV/AIDS programs BET has been supporting over the years.
People that were in attendance were the likes of Trey Songz, Kevin Lyles, Debra Lee, Terrance J, Tearra Marie, Jill Marie, Stephen Hill, Busta Rhymes, DJ Khaled, Lola Monroe and many more.
Spotted@ TheYBF
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Tagged with: all • busta rhymes • Debra Lee • DJ Khaled • Jazmyne Simmons • Jill Marie • Kevin Lyles • Lola Monroe • rey Songz • Stephen Hill • Tearra Marie • Terrance J
Filed under: Artist Collaboration • Award Shows • Black Entertainment Television • Celebrity Events • Celebrity Fashion • Celebrity Gossip • Hollywood News


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The average daily volume (ADV) of FX trades submitted to CLS in August was $1.6 trillion, down 2.1% from the $1.64 trillion in July.
FX Spot ADV was actually slightly up in August, according to the CLS data, rising to $425 billion from $416 billion in July.
FX Swaps ADV was down however, dropping from $1.2 trillion in July to $1.1 trillion in August. Similarly, the ADV for FX forwards went from $107 billion in July, down to $83 billion in August.
Year-on-year (YoY), the total FX ADV recorded by CLS was up 1.5% for August.


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This new documentary from Brett Harvey delves deep into the history and role of ice hockey's sometimes-beloved, sometimes-criticized enforcers. These are the big men better known for starting on-ice fights than for scoring goals. Harvey interviews more than a dozen former and current enforcers who, as a self-selected group, mount a strong defense for the poorly understood utility of the role. Arguments range from the self-serving (it's a way for less skilled athletes to play professional hockey) to altruistic (enforcers protect star players by selflessly taking on the inevitable violence of the match).
This isn't a sensational clip reel of hockey's best fights; there's more talking than brawling. Harvey also talks to some sports historians and a couple academics, who weigh in with big-picture theories about the human need for violent spectacle and the outlet it finds in modern tribal groups, such as sports rivalries. Negative aspects of being an enforcer are addressed — chiefly the physical and emotional toll the players endure, though this group clearly accept the trade-off for a job they love. More interesting is discussion of whether the game is safer with or without enforcers. With a crackdown on fights, does more abuse land on stars? Where are the lines between player safety and satisfying the fans who want to see rough play? There are some answers here, though Harvey's film would be stronger with the inclusion of some oppositional voices. Starts Fri., Nov. 25. AMC Loews


text: june, 2019 Larc Hill Vineyard Ranch3795 US-97 ALT, Chelan, WA 98816 08jun6:00 pm9:00 pmVintage Lake Chelan - 10 Year AVA AnniversaryGrand Tasting Event Event DetailsFull Schedule & Tickets --> Join us as Lake Chelan celebrates the 10 year anniversary of Event Details Full Schedule & Tickets –> Join us as Lake Chelan celebrates the 10 year anniversary of its official designation as an American Viticulture Area (AVA). Acquaint your taste buds with the wines made from Washington's most exciting AVA with educational and social events throughout the weekend. Join Cairdeas Winery at Vintage Lake Chelan's Grand Tasting, where will be showcasing our 2018 Rosé, a blend of Grenache and Lake Chelan AVA Syrah, and our 2017 Consonance, our Petite Sirah/Syrah dominant blend featuring Syrah from the Lake Chelan AVA. Wrap up the weekend with a Vineyard Lunch & Tour at Cairdeas Winery. Full Schedule & Tickets –> Time (Saturday) 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm LocationLarc Hill Vineyard Ranch3795 US-97 ALT, Chelan, WA 98816 Organizer Lake Chelan Wine Valley Learn More CalendarGoogleCal


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Material Girls Continues Tradition of Collecting Toys For Yale Toy Closet
Material Girls, 463 Boston Post Road, is collecting toys for the Yale New Haven Children's Hospital Toy Closet, a tradition owner Kristina Kaoud started several years ago with her children.
The Toy Closet program was founded by News 8 anchor Ann Nyberg 20 years ago, in 1993. The purpose is to provide pediatric patients at the hospital (including those receiving outpatient services) with a new toy.
Kaoud family learned about the closet while visiting a friend's child at the hospital. Their children were so moved by the idea that they asked their parents if they could do something to help.
Kristina has been collecting toys at Material Girls, and Jim has done the same at Kaoud Oriental Rugs for several years. In return, each business offers a discount on purchases with the donations.
You may drop off your donation (No plush please — hospital rules) during the regular business hours or during special events.
Material Girls is running promotions including discounts on purchases, or gifts for the next few weeks. Get a start to your holiday shopping, while supporting a great charity.
Suggested Donations (from the Toy Closet Brochure)
All toys/gifts should be new, unwrapped and sized so the closets can accommodate them. Plush toys are not accepted due to hospital infection control standards.
(Ages Newborn – 3)
Infant Toys, baby rattles, new books, building blocks, sorting toys, musical toys, soft balls, soft toys.
(Ages 4-12)
Building toys, craft kits, cars, trucks, new books, videos, coloring books, crayons, games, dolls, art supplies, sports equipment.
Journals, handheld games, art and craft kits, jewelry, cosmetics, sports equipment, games, school supplies, new books, calculators, models, building toys, flash drives, CD players.
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.


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Tiffany Strong
Traffic Specialist
Tiffany Strong brings over 10 years of diverse advertising experience from both small and large advertising agencies to her current role. As a Traffic Specialist at Millenia 3, Tiffany works as both a direct liaison between her clients, their advertising agencies, and broadcasters, and she also serves as the media coordinator and traffic manager for our Agency clients.
Tiffany earned a B.S. in Mass Communications from Middle Tennessee State University. She began her career in a small agency working with personal injury lawyers as a Traffic Manager & a Media Buyer before her most recent role as a Broadcast Negotiator and Media Strategist at OMD. At OMD, she worked on such accounts as Bayer Advanced, Bayer CropScience, Nissan, Mercedes and Hormel, just to name a few.
Tiffany's strengths are in both organization and managing the 'details.' With her vast experience in many different areas of the advertising and media industry, combined with her great attitude and desire to partner with her clients, Tiffany makes a wonderful addition to our Millenia 3 family.


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An emergency medical services region in East Tennessee that includes Anderson County is sending a strike force of five ambulances and one command vehicle to Florida to help respond to Hurricane Irma.
The ambulances, crews, and command vehicle are from a 16-county region known as Region 2 in Tennessee, said Nathan Sweet, director of Anderson County EMS.
Anderson County EMS is sending one ambulance and two employees. The two employees are Paramedic Michael Rhinehart and AEMT Justin Harmon. (An AEMT is an advanced emergency medical technician.)
Rhinehart and Harmon left at 8:45 a.m. Friday, and they headed to Lenoir City to meet up with the strike force. From there, they are going to Chattanooga to meet up with a strike force from Region 1. It's not clear yet where they will be deployed.
State officials, Florida officials, and federal officials have been involved in the activation of the strike teams that are responding to Florida, Sweet said.
They could be required to help with emergency medical services. Also, there could be people in hospitals and nursing homes that aren't able to evacuate, Sweet said. And the emergency medical crews could provide relief to first responders in Florida.
The EMS crews prepare for the worst, but they might only have to help with transfers, Sweet said.
Rhinehart and Harmon could be gone for two to three weeks. Sweet told them to expect to be gone for three weeks to be on the safe side, including so their families could be prepared.
It's not clear where they will stay. That will be coordinated by the emergency management agencies that are on site, whether they are state or federal agencies, Sweet said. Among the places the emergency medical crews could stay are hotels and emergency shelters.
The last out-of-area disaster that the Anderson County EMS responded to were the Sevier County wildfires in November.
More information will be added as it becomes available.
Do you appreciate this story or our work in general? If so, please consider a monthly subscription to Oak Ridge Today. See our Subscribe page here. Thank you for reading Oak Ridge Today.
Copyright 2017 Oak Ridge Today. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.


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Here at GenderFun we like to bring you the cutting edge Gender related news! Today's story is about one of the Obamas. More specifically the Obama in the White House that doesn't have a Penis...wait, what sex is the Obama Dog?
Turns out that Michelle Obama is an inspiration to Indian Women! We are talking about Indian with a dot and not with a feather.
"She might be the first woman of color that females in male-dominated countries have seen as confident, bright, educated, articulate and persuasive," says Barbara Perry, author of "Jacqueline Kennedy: First Lady of the New Frontier."
Barbara Perry that might be true but don't let Oprah hear you say that, she will eat you alive - Literally! Oprah has been gaining weight which can only mean one thing, she be hungry. She will not allow any other woman to be a better role model than she.
Lets face it, the CNN article is simply blowing smoke up the first lady's ass, which we have no problem with, but we do have to ask ourselves why? Where is the real story here?
I'll tell ya where the real story is: Women need to stand up for their rights! In many countries Women and The Gays are on the bottom of the food chain.
Legal battles are the smart way to go about winning civil rights. Ya need to organize Ladies!!! Political avenues might be best: however, there are also bold statements women can make that are not political such as the example below. We don't advocate them but they do entertain us quite a bit ladies
Here is Lorena Bobbit telling Oprah about that fun time back in the 90s when she cut off her husband's penis and then threw it out the car window. Thank God she did! God forbid she get in a car accident because she wasn't able to hold a severed penis in on hand and drive with the other. After all, women don't have as much practice driving with one hand on the wheel and the other on a penis like men do.
QUESTION: Do you think it's ok for a lady who has been rape to cut off the penis of the man who raped her? Talk about a cutting edge question! We personally don't think revenge solves anything but in this case it would be harder for a man to rape another woman ever again... unless they attached the appendage then you might be SCREWED... literally


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The weather was so hot in the remote town in South Sudan where I have been camping over the past week, that the glue holding my Timberland boots together melted.
These industrial troopers have seen this reporter through Libya, Yemen, Egypt and Iraq. But on Thursday they died in a South Sudanese February, leaving me flopping back through the bush to camp.
This isn't an important detail. But it might go some way to describe the extreme environment that people here grapple with every day.
In South Sudan, it is the women's job to fetch water.
In areas like Manyabol, which is only accessible by helicopter and a half day's cross-country drive, women walk for up to nine hours a day in flip-flops or barefoot in the punishing heat just to fetch water in jerrycans that are near impossible to lift off the ground, let alone balance on your head.
The women told me they complete these arduous journeys surviving only on wild fruit found in the barren bush. I tried lalop this week, it has little flesh, you basically suck out bitter juice, it gives you diarrhoea if you eat too many.
Sitting on the floor, melting into the dirt of a mud hut, it was hard to understand how everyone I was talking to was still alive.
And the answer from the women is that they are barely surviving. Most hadn't eaten in four days.
These remote areas have suffered after a brutal five-year civil war, which was formally ended in September with a peace deal signed between the country's president, Salva Kiir, and rebel leader Riek Machar.
And while the fighting has largely died down, except for skirmishes with rebel groups who didn't sign the agreement, the humanitarian crisis is actually growing.
More people – around two-thirds of the population – are in need of assistance this year, which is more than last year.
The problem is the humanitarian response programme isn't fully funded (it only raised two-thirds of what it needed in 2018).
Furthermore, South Sudan has dropped out of the news because of the assumption that peace means all must be well.
Other conflicts like Syria have instead gripped the attention of the general public in the UK.
And while these catastrophes are important too, I think it is a foreign correspondent's responsibility to keep shining a light on other tragedies that have slipped out of the news cycle.
The news can be a self-fulfilling prophecy: whatever appears to generate the most interest from the readership ends up being the most closely followed, which creates interest and so it goes on.
And so I hope this week The Independent's series from the ground here in South Sudan, will be a small part of changing that.
Bel Trew
Middle East correspondent
Source http://www.bing.com/news/apiclick.aspx?ref=FexRss&aid=&tid=7AA44140AE9D435A96E1857B33720F90&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.independent.co.uk%2Fvoices%2Feditors-letter%2Fsouth-sudan-humanitarian-crisis-aid-yemen-syria-foreign-correspondent-a8772496.html&c=3848861884613281767&mkt=en-ca
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- Kenya, South Sudan: Investigate Critics' Disappearance - 11/02/2019
- South Sudan Aims To Boost Oil Production To 350,000 Bpd By Mid-2020 - 11/02/2019
- EDITORIAL: Is Sudan's Ruler on the Ropes? - 11/02/2019
- South Sudan: Talking about prisoners of war - 11/02/2019
- Holdout opposition accuses South Sudan army of preparing new attacks - 10/02/2019
Older news items:
- Deadline looms for South Sudan's peace deal terms - 10/02/2019
- Chopper Crash Kills Three at Disputed South Sudan, Sudan Border - 10/02/2019
- South Sudan Operation Overview - January 2019 - 10/02/2019
- South Sudan to return to pre-war oil production levels by mid-2020: minister - 10/02/2019
- Does Juba Even Care About Protecting Girls From Sexual Violence? - 10/02/2019
Popular news items:
- No oil in troubled waters - 25/03/2014 - Read 19692 times
- School exam results in South Sudan show decline - Bikya Masr - 01/04/2012 - Read 16767 times
- Former Lost Boy Gives Back to South Sudan - Care2.com (blog) - 31/05/2012 - Read 15251 times
- NDSU student from South Sudan receives scholarship - In-Forum - 29/09/2012 - Read 14609 times
- With prisons full, South Sudan to introduce mobile courts to clear backlog of ... - Washington Post - 11/10/2012 - Read 12146 times


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Joseph Johnson, Debanjan Mitra, Sivaramakrishnan Siddarth, Hyunhwan "Aiden" Lee
- Revision invited, Journal of Marketing
Existing customer-based brand equity metrics are built on customers' choices and preferences and not on the dynamics inherent in their brand switching and timing, which potentially handicaps the prognostic ability of such metrics. To remedy this we develop a complementary metric that focuses on the rate of change in customers' purchase transitions. We use the counting process to model the repeat and switching rates of a brand, parse out baselines for each transition rate, cumulate these baselines over a given duration, and combine them to obtain brand hazard (BH). Using customer panel data, we estimate BH for six leading brands in three product categories over sixteen two-year moving windows. We find increases in BH foretells future declines in the intercept of logit models of customers' brand choice (BCI) – a customer based brand equity metric estimated from the same data. More
important, we find that changes in BH and BCI are able to predict future changes in a brand's price premium and revenue premium in the broader market. Our findings imply that BH complements BCI, and tracking them together provides a comprehensive prognosis of a brand's health.
Key Words: Branding, Brand Equity, Brand Management, Hazard Models, Markov Process,
Counting process
Key Words: Branding, Brand Equity, Brand Management, Hazard Models, Markov Process,


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Some time after I wrote Facial disfigurement: A voyage around my face on this blog my newspaper published a slightly longer version of the blog and the same day I had a radio interview with the John Murray Show. A busy few days followed trying to keep up with the reaction.
I hadn't shown my mother the original blog post, but when I did we agreed on a couple of alterations that I included in the article. We also agreed that I should interview her. And we did it in a very relaxed way some time later.
Her story is different in some aspects to what I published, but the essential elements are the same and needn't concern us here. If there's ever a book (and I certainly hope so) then that will be the definitive record.
We recorded the 40 minutes or so on my iPhone because that way she would forget all about the recording after a couple of minutes, which is exactly what happened. And so, with the occasional interruption from me, she told her story. And there were almost no dramatic developments in what she had to say about the day of the accident and the aftermath, although, as I said already, a couple of details were new.
What did surprise me – and has chilled me since she first said it – was her claim that I was tied to the hospital bed for most of the time I was there, 2.5 years. To say I was stunned is an understatement. How could a little boy, badly burned in an accident, be tied to a hospital bed? And for such a long time? The idea seemed grotesque, like something out of a horror movie.
Once I recovered from that initial shock I asked her for a little more clarity. She reckons I was tied up most of the time because they (medical staff) were afraid I would use my hands to scratch my facial and chest burns. True, but to have a child spreadeagled on a bed, each hand and leg tied to the metal bars, was unnerving.
I was inclined to think she might have misremembered, that the passage of time was playing tricks on her memory, although mum is a very active woman and mentally sharp. Which troubled me and left me more than confused and bewildered.
There was more. Mum also said I came out of hospital in such a bad state my legs were bent inwards and my arms were raised like a bird flapping its wings. Combined with my chin being attached to my stomach it must have made for a frightful sight. And indeed it did for she also said that when I eventually went home the boy who lived next door to us used to scream in terror every time he saw me. Most hurtful of all for mum was taking me for walks with my sister and little brother, I flapping my arms and walking crookedly while little boys followed behind us imitating me. It caused terrible hurt to mum.
And when I talked to my sister Lorraine about what mum had revealed, she gave the story another twist. Dad told her that I was in such a distressed condition in the hospital they recommended I be placed in an institution, which is why he took me home. That obviously was why he had told me he feared I would be institutionalised, so he removed me from hospital. It made a lot of sense given my condition.
However long I was tied to the bed there seems little doubt that I was affected to a severe degree, to the extent that mum had to teach me how to walk properly, this in the day when there were no physiotherapy or rehab facilities available, at least for me. Not to mention psychological help. I expected a few surprises when I began this blog, but not this. What else awaits me?


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On Saturday, Germán Quiroga earned a seventh-place finish in the Drivin' For Linemen 200 at Gateway Motorsports Park. During two practice sessions on Saturday morning, Quiroga posted the 15th and fourth fastest times. A rain shower moved through just before qualifying was scheduled to begin, and the field was set per the NASCAR Rule Book based on practice times. Quiroga took the green flag in fifth position, but soon reported that he was too free in turns 3 and 4, falling back out of the top 10. During the second caution on lap 28, crew chief Scott Zipadelli called Quiroga to pit road for two tires, fuel and adjustments. After restarting in the 12th position, Quiroga reported that his No. 11 Toyota Tundra was very loose and on the following caution period on lap 69, he again visited pit road, this time for four tires, fuel and a wedge adjustment. He continued to battle a loose condition and would visit pit road again one more time for another four-tire stop. Quiroga was able to avoid several late-race wrecks to drive into the top 10 and secure a seventh-place finishing position.
Start - 5
Finish - 7
Driver Points Position - 23
Owner Points Position - 9
Laps Led - 0
Germán Quiroga Quote:
"First of all, I have to thank everyone at Red Horse Racing for the opportunity and everyone at Toyota Racing Development. We had a fast Toyota Tundra, but we started a little bit free. We got it a little bit better but we fought that all night. You have to be aggressive, but they were hitting us, and every time they hit us we were losing positions because we were so free. I'm happy overall, we finished with the truck in one piece in the top-10. All I can say is thanks to everyone, all the pit crew guys, (crew chief) Scott Zipadelli and all the guys back at the shop."


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Vonchef was a member of the Titan Base in the 50th century. He was sent by Shafira to investigate the arrival of Hex. He was later attacked by Hex under the Nucleus' control and infected by its plague. Because of the Seventh Doctor's interference, the Nucleus made him commit suicide. (AUDIO: Revenge of the Swarm)
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German carmaker BMW has set up a vehicle battery recycling venture with Belgian materials and recycling firm Umicore and Northvolt, which is building a battery factory in Sweden.
The venture aims to design and commercialize a "closed life cycle loop" to give vehicle batteries a second life as storage products before recycling the raw materials, Reuters reported.
European governments want to encourage the domestic battery industry to rival Asian players such as BYD, CATL, Samsung and LG Chem, which are building a dominant position.
BMW, which has supply deals with Samsung and CATL, said it could source batteries from Northvolt in future but said it was too early to sign any deal with the firm, which is building a plant that aims to produce 32 gigawatt hours (GWh) of battery capacity a year by 2023.
"We have this consortium because we see great potential and Northvolt could be another supplier of battery cells for us," BMW spokesman Niklas Drechsler said after announcing the recycling venture.
He said Northvolt had to build up and ramp up their battery cell production before any supply deal could be reached.
Northvolt, which has to raise 1.2 billion to 1.5 billion euros or $1.4 billion to $1.7 billion in debt and equity this year to build an initial 8 GWh of capacity, said it wanted to deepen its relationship with BMW.
Northvolt has applied to one of its existing financiers, the European Investment Bank, for a 400 million euro loan.
BMW said it made an initial investment of an undisclosed amount in its recycling venture with Northvolt and Umicore and would provide its expertise in battery cell development.
Umicore will be responsible for active anode and cathode materials development and recycling.


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Rock to the rhythm of Linkin Park on this dark and gritty skin for Steam. If you are a major LP fan, this skin will serve greatly for your Steam page. You can find fellow soldiers of the LP fandom who will recognize the dark layout from miles.
This skin juggles between the two contrasting colors of red and black. Together, these two shades create a very bold and extroverted outlook. Red silhouettes of the six band members stay afloat in the header portion. No matter which page or section you navigate to, these silhouettes will follow you everywhere.


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Perhaps it's the changing weather and a bit of sunshine, but lately I've been thinking of how exciting it is to be part of the University of Missouri System. This was especially true this month, because March provided several opportunities to see talent shine at each of our universities. For example, Missouri S&T hosted the PickHacks hackathon, the MU Novak Leadership Institute hosted a 3-day Athlete Leadership Development Program for Special Olympics Missouri, graduate students at UMSL showcased their graphic design thesis work and UMKC's costume design program was named one of the top 10 in the country. Most rewardingly, we've seen the UM System and MU Extension join together at the frontlines of the flood recovery efforts across Missouri.
I hope some of you had the opportunity to see student teams from MU, UMKC, Missouri S&T and UMSL pitch their business ideas in Shark Tank-style semifinals in preparation for the UM System Entrepreneur Quest finals on April 5. The final event will feature students from all four of our universities (get your free tickets here!). Witnessing our students in action as they pitch their innovative and creative business ideas is not just fun; it is truly inspirational.
"Witnessing our students in action as they pitch their innovative and creative business ideas is not just fun; it's truly inspirational."
This month also provided opportunities to hear some of the exciting research stories from across our system. Nobel Laureate Dr. George Smith gave an evening lecture about his experiences, and also kicked off a phenomenal Mizzou Giving Day with the donation of his prize money to students at Mizzou's College of Arts and Science as part of the UM System Promise and Opportunity Scholarship program. UMSL's Chancellor Tom George also gave an engaging scientific talk at Astronomy on Tap, which underscored his years of dedication to our mission as a public research University and was particularly fitting as he announced his retirement this month. For another source of inspiration, I encourage you to mark your calendars for Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol on April 4, where undergraduates will share their unique opportunities tied to faculty-mentored research and creative scholarship with state lawmakers.
I think many people in our system would agree that our opportunities to engage with the community are invigorating. This month I enjoyed joining in the excitement of Engineer's Week at MU and accepting an honorary knighthood during Missouri S&T's famous St. Pat's Celebration. MU Extension is also continuing an important community tradition with the St. Louis Storytelling Festival, which runs from April 25 to May 4. Undeniably enjoyable, these traditions are important ways for us to connect across our campuses and with our greater communities.
"Undeniably enjoyable, these traditions are important ways for us to connect across our campuses and with our greater communities."
For me, though, the best part of our University community is having the opportunity to recognize the achievements of our amazing faculty and students. This month, MU leaders surprised faculty members Botswana Blackburn, Donald Meyer and Peter Motavalli with $10,000 Kemper awards in recognition of their teaching excellence. UMSL also surprised high school senior Jalen Rhodes with an offer to join the Opportunity Scholars program. On April 2, I'll have the personal honor of participating in the formal investiture of UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal, in recognition of the new era at UMKC that will be defined by his bold vision. Our newest issue of Tapestry, a biannual e-publication produced by the UM System Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, also highlights many stories that celebrate the diversity that exists across our university system. Finally, I'm especially excited to recognize the 2019 UM System's President's Award winners in the coming months. Honoring our outstanding work in research, teaching, service and entrepreneurship expresses the true spirit of the UM System's mission.
"Honoring our outstanding work in research, teaching, service and entrepreneurship expresses the true spirit of the UM System's mission."
Another important part of our mission is to let the world know about the impact we make. Last month's Legislative Day was an engaging event that helped us share our message at the State Capitol. MU Chancellor Cartwright recently had the opportunity to advance this goal at our nation's capital. But sometimes, our achievements are so outstanding that they capture national attention on their own. In January, I shared with you that our system's online programs received some of the nation's highest rankings from the U.S. News and World Report. The happy news continues this month as MU, UMKC, Missouri S&T and UMSL have all been recognized for climbing the ranks of the nation's best graduate programs.
I hope you share my enthusiasm for spreading the message about the work we do each day—as well as the fun we have doing it. If you're at MU, the upcoming Show Me Mizzou Day on April 13 will definitely be one opportunity to spread that message. Likewise, Missouri S&T will be holding their 150th anniversary open forum on April 2. These and the other system events I've described in this letter are important expressions of the value that we bring to Missouri. If you have a story to share about our university system, please send it to email@example.com.
Mun Y. Choi
President, UM System
Reviewed 2019-03-29


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Summer Concert Series: The Mar-Tays
Friday, July 14, 2017 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Concert is inside this evening.
Members of The Mar-Tays have recorded and performed with artists as diverse as Hall and Oates, Whitney Houston, Simon & Garfunkel, Bette Midler, Peter Allen, Beyonce?, and Jennifer Holiday, to mention just a few. Their eclectic music – greasy, bluesy, rollicking and soulful – was forged by thousands of hours of recording sessions and concerts. Featuring the incendiary vocals of Martee LeBow, the Mar-Tays' impassioned virtuosity and unique arrangements breathe new life into classic songs.
The concerts are outdoors on the north lawn at the Arts Center. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and you are welcome to bring food and beverages. Refreshments and some picnic food will be available for purchase.
In the event of rain, the concert will be held indoors at the Center.
The concerts for the Summer Series are all pay-what-you-wish events provided for our community.
The 4 concerts this year are:
July 7 - Darryl Tookes
July 14 - The Mar-Tays
July 21 - Arts on the Lake Jazz Ensemble
July 28 - Williamsburg Salsa Orchestra
More information will be added soon.
About the Event
These concerts are made possible, in part, by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the NY State Legislature. In Putnam County this grant program is managed and monitored by the Putnam Arts Council.


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The ultimate nightlife and party guide picking only the best of Belgrade's bar and party scene! "Sweet dreams are made of this…Everybody is looking for something." It's Saturday night in Belgrade and we're drinking cocktails to 80's beats at Mikser Garden. It's a mix crowd of young and old. But one thing is for sure, the … Continue reading Belgrade Nightlife And Party Guide
Artist view of Angkor Wat Temples
We were honored to have Alena Vasilyeva - artist - painter - from Russia as our guest. During her stay at River Queen Guesthouse Alena was able to produce one painting for each day of her stay in Siem Reap. Here is collection of her paintings made during her days in River Queen Guesthouse - … Continue reading Artist view of Angkor Wat Temples
A trek to Cambodia's temples is a spiritual as well as physical journey, says Shelley Bridgeman.
All the guidebooks agreed: April is not the best month for tourists to visit Cambodia because of the intense heat. But it was a convenient time for us so we braved the stickiness and headed to Siem Reap regardless. We discovered the guidebooks were right. Leaving our air-conditioned rooms felt like stepping into a sauna … Continue reading A trek to Cambodia's temples is a spiritual as well as physical journey, says Shelley Bridgeman.
Dancing with the divine
By Daniel Otis No longer reserved for royalty, the delights of Cambodia's ethereal Apsara dancers can now be savoured by one and all Dressed in elaborately brocaded costumes and anklets, bracelets and crowns made of shimmering gold, the dancers move with hypnotic grace, delicatelypivoting their hands, limbs and bare feet to tell the … Continue reading Dancing with the divine


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FOX LOTR Special News
From: Oleg
The Fox channel in the states is supposed to run a LOTR special over the Thanksgiving weekend, a making of type thing I believe. And when TBS, or TNT, I can't remember, premieres Matrix, there will be a five minute montage of interstitials from the film. The cable channel will probably tease it on ads for Matrix (think, "you'll love traveling to the future in the Matrix, but stay tuned until the very end and travel back to Middle Earth through scenes from New Line's event of 2001, LOTR…").Posted in Old Spy Reports on August 16, 2001 by xoanon


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To those of you celebrating, I hope that you all had a great Thanksgiving. Due to holiday activities, I didn't publish a post last week. Maybe some of you had a chance to do a Thanksgiving Review.
One of the biggest potential positives of the internet is the ability to communicate with people with similar interests and hobbies. There have been a variety of social networks built (and being built) around a variety of subjects. Some of the more famous ones include MySpace and Facebook, however new ones are starting up everyday. In addition you might remember that I did a post about Mashable a little while ago. Mashable provides the latest news about social networking (in addition to their lists that I wrote about previously). They also have groups as well, and while their network is smaller, you'll find many savvy members there.
Within the popular MySpace, Facebook, and Mashable are groups that you can join. These allow you to find people with similar interests and hobbies and range from fan sites of musical bands, television shows, to a variety of other subjects. All three offer a search to help you find the group that you're looking for. I must admit that the search could stand some improvement or they could be organized a little better.
One of the potential benefits I see with these groups is that you can exchange information with other members of that group. This allows for novices to get some answers from those members with more experience. It also allows the more experienced members to be mentors to the "newbies".
If you are into blogging then you might think about joining the following groups. While these groups are small at the moment, I hope that they will grow and provide the exchange mechanize that I have mentioned previously. In addition, I think that this can be another way of promoting your blog.
MySpace the Bloggers Community
Facebook the Bloggers Community
Mashable the Bloggers Community
Since one of the biggest themes of my blog is productivity and GTD, below you'll find some groups on this subject. In these groups you"ll find a people with varying degrees of experience with GTD and productiviy.
MySpace GTD (Getting Things Done) and Productivity
Facebook GTD (Getting Things Done)
Mashable GTD (Getting Things Done) and Productivity
If you're already a member of MySpace, Facebook, or Mashable, I hope that you'll check out the groups mentioned in this post. While at any of those sites you might find another group that you'd like to join or if you don't find what you're looking for, why not create your own group.


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The last school bell rings, and I exhale for the first time in 10 months. Gone are the crazy mornings of dragging kids out of bed, packing lunches they might actually eat, and battling the dreaded drop-off line where anarchy is defined. Gone are my nights of homework-checking and feeding my kids as I drive to multiple activities. Late June is freedom; schedules are tossed aside and quality, unstructured family time begins.
The first morning of summer break rivals Christmas. I wake up and peacefully contemplate what I will accomplish this summer -- our summer is a blank canvas and I am da Vinci. Nestled in my bed, I bask in the freedom as my two boys, Alex and Zach, fly into my room asking, "Mommy, what are we doing today?" I blissfully look at them and enthusiastically present multiple options.
For the next seven weeks, I happily pack the beach totes, igloo coolers, and my car. I enthusiastically take my kids and their friends wherever they want to go. The sweet sound of laughter enables me to overlook the mess that accumulates in the car and our home, as I think, I never want this time to end.
More from CafeMom: 25 Family Must-Dos for the Summer Bucket List
But somewhere around mid-August, after the millionth time I ask them to pick up their toys, untangle fishing poles, and mediate ridiculous arguments, I am ready to snap. The bounce in my step has become more like an elephant stomp. Unstructured, quality family time takes its toll and I think, We've hit the proverbial "too much of a good thing."
My mornings -- on a slow decline over the past week -- are on par with a dental visit instead of Christmas. One day I roll out of bed praying the kids are still asleep. I attempt to sneak a peaceful cup of coffee before they bombard me with the dreaded question that now makes my skin crawl. I open the pantry and mounds of stuff fly out at me. I shove it all back in, remembering that laundry list of things I wanted to accomplish, and think, I will organize it when they go back to school.
More from CafeMom: How I Learned to Relax & Stop Being a Helicopter Parent
Alex and Zach trudge down the stairs arguing and they walk right past me. I stay silently unnoticed for about two seconds before Alex interrupts my peace: "What are we doing today?"
I fight rolling my eyes as I sip my coffee. I list a few options with zero enthusiasm. Every suggestion earns an immediate rejection. I snap and enthusiastically declare, "We are going school shopping!"
A horrified look is shared between my boys and they are unified. Later, in the "Back to School" aisle, I breathe deeply and relish the scents of a new school year. The structure I couldn't wait to leave in June is now the very thing I desire. There is a noticeable spring in my step, as I peruse the cardboard displays holding a myriad of school supplies. I call out, "Look, boys -- scented markers!"
Wearing frowns bigger than my smile, Alex and Zach chant behind me, "It's too soon to get this stuff!"
All I can think is, Finally they are agreeing on something.
More from CafeMom: 11 Things Every Mom Should Know Before the First Day of School
They come closer to me, in a panic, alternating their ideas: "Mom we need to go to the beach, go for that hike, and can we go to that place with the rides and mini golf?"
I put my hand up to stop the deluge but they don't relent. "PLEASE, just one LAST time!" they plead, wearing their best angelic faces.
I don't respond as I think, I won't make it through 'one last time'!
Another mom, looking eerily similar to me, saunters down our aisle, her two downtrodden girls in tow. The mom happily dictates the list of items they need for school. I feel her joy and we exchange a knowing smile as I hear her girls mutter sadly, "We don't want school to start yet." Suddenly, like a frying pan to the face, I get it. My cherubs aren't experiencing "too much of a good thing"; they're just sad over summer's ending.
I stop and turn to the boys. "Okay, let's do this later. What 'last' do you want to do first?"
Celeste Chin left the corporate world to raise her children and eventually pursue a career in writing. Also a substitute teacher, she lives in New Jersey with her two teenage boys. Celeste recently completed writing her first children's novel, for children 9 to 12 years old. Her favorite hobbies surround spending time with her sons, either on the golf course, skiing, hiking, or kayaking, just to name a few.
Image via iStock.com/Nadezhda1906