text:
'Terminator' warlord jailed for 30 years over DR Congo crimes
7 November 2019, 10:56 | Updated: 7 November 2019, 11:02
Bosco Ntaganda was found guilty in July of 18 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The International Criminal Court has sentenced a Congolese warlord known as "the Terminator" to 30 years in jail after he was convicted of crimes including murder, rape and sexual slavery.
The sentence was the highest ever passed by the court.
Bosco Ntaganda was found guilty in July of 18 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity for his role as a military commander in atrocities in an ethnic conflict in a mineral-rich region of DR Congo in 2002-2003.
Ntaganda showed no emotion as Presiding Judge Robert Fremr passed sentences ranging from eight years to 30 years for individual crimes and an overarching sentence of 30 years.
The court's maximum sentence is 30 years although judges also have the discretion to impose a life sentence.
Ida Sawyer, deputy director of Human Rights Watch's Africa division, welcomed the ruling.
"Bosco Ntaganda's 30-year sentence sends a strong message that even people considered untouchable may one day be held to account," Ms Sawyer said. "While his victims' pain cannot be erased, they can take some comfort in seeing justice prevail."
Ntaganda, who has insisted he is innocent, became a symbol for widespread impunity in Africa in the seven years between first being indicted by the global court and finally turning himself in in 2013 as his power base fell apart.
Judges at his trial said he was guilty as a direct perpetrator or a co-perpetrator of a string of crimes including murders, rapes of men and women, a massacre in a banana field behind a building called The Paradiso and of enlisting and using child soldiers.
Child soldiers were raped by Ntaganda's troops and forced into sexual slavery, leaving them with lasting physical and psychological scars, the court heard. Ntaganda used child soldiers as bodyguards.
He testified for weeks in his own defence, saying he wanted to put the record straight about his reputation as a ruthless military leader but was unable to convince the three-judge panel of his innocence.
Ntaganda was the deputy chief of staff and commander of operations for rebel group the Patriotic Forces for the Liberation of Congo.
The force's leader, Thomas Lubanga, was convicted by the ICC in 2012 of using child soldiers. He is serving a 14-year prison sentence.
Ntaganda earned a higher sentence because he was convicted of far more crimes.
He has 30 days to appeal against his sentence.


text:
La Cucaracha
La Cucaracha
An anthropomorphic hipster cockroach is on the cutting-edge of American comic-strip humor. La Cucaracha (aka Cuco Rocha) and his pals voice the concerns and observations of the Latino-American community with an edgy, insightful wit.
Through La Cucaracha, creator Lalo Alcaraz makes blunt social commentary both hard-hitting and hilarious. The result is not just a pleasure, but also a craving.
The strong undercurrent of modern Latino themes and issues adds a sharp layer of meaning to the humor. In one strip, an immigrant bartender has listened to two customers rant, "I'm telling ya, there's too many immigrants pouring into this country." When one of the customers asks for another drink the bartender declares, "I'm an immigrant, and guess what? I'm not pouring!"
This first of perceptive La Cucaracha humor will delight and gratify all audiences that appreciate intelligent, progressive, deeply amusing comics.
|La Cucaracha (2016) (DCP Webrips).cbr
文章作者 墨问非名
上次更新 2017-01-18

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Customer is always right7972
72825 8 8
|rzphotoman private msg quote post Address this user
|I recently did a scan of high end Assisted Living / Memory Care facility. It is around 20,000 sg ft and had to be done over 2 days between 6-7:30 am each day. After 7:30 the residents start waking up moving through out the facility, and they move very slow...but just fast enough to be blurs in the scan.
The project called for 5 different scans of different areas of the facility to fit the new website they were creating.
Everything went great. The sales manager, who was my contact was there throughout the shoot and her and her boss loved everything. Then she shared it with the property owner.
A little background on the owner...I had just completed a huge project for him at one of his office complexes in another state. That one involved 11 office buildings spread over 125 acres, with multiple scans, virtual staging of empty offices, and drone footage of the entire complex. He loved everything I did on that project.
When he started looking at the first scan he was loving it, until he saw one of the trash containers in a scan. He said this looks great, but you have to remove the trash cans because they make the place look dirty. Unfortunately these "dirty" trash cans are throughout the facility and to remove all of them would require a complete re-shoot. He didn't blame me, he said I should have had someone from management with me making sure the trash cans were moved. I had management with me and she never consider moving them as they are everywhere.
Well, as they say, the customer is always right so that's what I'm doing...a full re-shoot at full price of the original shoot.
Here's a screen shot of the with one of the dirty trash cans. Can you find it?
|Post 1 IP flag post
|OpenHouseOptics private msg quote post Address this user
|Is it possible to just rescan the points where they can be seen? However, it's a little persnickety, the pull looks neat as a pin. Makes me think it's clean because there are plenty of recepticles that the residents don't have to walk too far to get to.
|Post 2 IP flag post
WGAN Forum
|DanSmigrod private msg quote post Address this user
Thanks for sharing the backstory.
Here's a kerfuffle I had about the customer is always right ...
✓ Listing goes to another broker? Matterport?
P.S. We (typically) always hide trash cans.
|Post 3 IP flag post
|rzphotoman private msg quote post Address this user
|@OpenHouseOptics re-scanning the points where they can be seen is not an option since they are in so many locations.
And Dan, I will generally remove trash cans but these, in mine and the sales managers opinion, looked like they belonged in the public space areas...but as I said, the customer is always right.
I would like to know how anyone feels about charging the client again for re-doing this particular job under these circumstances.
|Post 4 IP flag post
WGAN Fan
Club Member
Portland, Oregon
|HelloPado private msg quote post Address this user
|I've always had a problem with this saying,, "the customer is always right".
I call BS.
The customer always has a need. As a service provider it is our business to discover that need.
If they ar willing to pay for the redo, that's sweet.
|Post 5 IP flag post
Las Vegas
|VTLV private msg quote post Address this user
|Haven't seen that term thrown around by companies in about 25 years. How long did that campaign even last?
10 years maybe? That was the term that set off the frivolous lawsuit debate in the 90's.
We got enough liability to worry about when simply adjusting the mini blinds.
Originally Posted by HelloPado- here here
|Post 6 IP flag post
|rzphotoman private msg quote post Address this user
|@VTLV My only response is I guess I'm old, 66, and old school. I've always have and always will treat my clients that way. Hasn't failed me in 38 years, but like my 21 yr old son says...wake up and get with the times dad. To which, after shedding a tear for his generation, I simply respond "no thanks, I'm good".
|Post 7 IP flag post
|CFster private msg quote post Address this user
|"High end" assisted living facility? Around here even the low end ones cost a fortune.
They have the money, and admitted their fault. I'd be billing them again. At least for time spent.
|Post 8 IP flag post
This topic is archived. Start new topic?


text:
When buying a pair of hair clippers, there are a number of important things to consider so that you can guarantee you will choose the perfect clipper. With such a large variety of clippers on the market today, it can be confusing trying to choose, so hopefully this guide will be helpful.
The first question you need to consider is what you want to use your hair clippers for. There are a number of uses, with the obvious ones being for occasional use at home or everyday use in a salon, however there is a spectrum within this including occasional salon use and regular home use. For instance, in a salon environment, it will always be better to choose a professional clipper such as the Wahl Super Taper or Wahl Chromstyle cordless clipper, as these will guarantee professional results with every cut.
For home use, there are many home use clippers which will give great results. Many of our Wahl Home Use Clippers such as the HomePro 300 offer high quality for a lower price than a professional pair of hair clippers. Although the motors are not as strong in retail clippers, they are ideal at home as they do not have to stand up to the rigours of being used day in and day out to cut hair. The Wahl HomePro 100 is a great clipper for an incredible price, and is ideal for those who don't want to pay out £40 plus for a professional clipper such as the Wahl Academy Clipper.
However, there are many instances in which a professional clipper will be sought for home use, particularly for those with thicker hair, or those who cut their hair every one or two weeks, as professional hair clippers will generally cut better for longer and give desired results.
You may also want to consider the difference between a corded clipper and cordless clipper for hair cutting. A clipper with a power cable will give better results and have a stronger motor as they don't rely on batteries; however it should be noted that the Wahl Bellissima Clippers and Wahl Chromstyle Clippers are just as powerful as a corded clipper, however, they are both at the more expensive end of the hair clippers range. The disadvantage of a corded clipper however, is that they don't allow for the freedom of use that a cordless hair clipper will, with cordless clippers being much easier if shaving one's own head.
Another factor to consider is the accessories that are supplied with the hair clipper that you choose. For example, if you want a professional looking cut at home, a clipper set such as the Wahl Chrome Pro set may be ideal as it is supplied with everything you will need, such as scissors, gown, trimmers, combs and brushes; in fact everything you will ever need! However, if you are just after a high quality clipper and grader attachments for salon use, or just for professional results at home, then a professional clipper, whilst not having the gowns etc, will offer a better alternative.
One of the final, but most obvious things to consider when purchasing hair clippers is the budget that you are working with. On hairclippers.co.uk we stock hair clippers ranging from £15 right up to £110, so with such a spectrum of prices, it is important you know what you are willing to spend. You can get brilliant results at home with a cheaper clipper if its only used occasionally, and equally amore expensive professional clipper will give incredible results both in salons and at home.


text:
blog topics:
Update on Our Food Bags
Our new food bags efficiently protect the contents with a thicker and stronger barrier that allows in less air and moisture.
This helps to prolong the freshness and shelf life of the food inside. We've also updated the re-sealable zipper with an easy-close seal on the side, to help keep the contents fresh. Just like all our packaging, our new bags are BPA free and 100% food safe.
Our new bags can be recycled in most areas by simply placing in your curbside collection bin – please check with your local agency to see what's possible in your neighborhood. Other recycling info can be found at the following links: http://recyclenation.com/ and http://www.recyclingcenters.org/
The change to our new bags has also allowed us to increase efficiencies in our manufacturing capabilities from being hand filled to a swifter, automated system, which means more bags of our delicious dehydrated whole food recipes can be produced each day!


text:
By Doc Burford
Wow! GameXplain has posted a in-depth exploration of all of the footage we have so far of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
I'm going through it now, and while some of it sticks out to me as over-analysis (gut feeling: those lights in the Temple of Resurrection are intended to mimic constellations, not computer chips), it's super entertaining and highlighting a few things I hadn't even noticed.
If you're not into spoilers, don't watch this. If you're into scouring game previews for every single detail someone can possibly find, this is a great video.


text:
The Motor City Madman in the Rocket City August 23, 2011
If you have never rocked with Ted Nugent, you have never rocked! Ted Nugent will be in the Rocket City August 23, 2011 at Sammy T's Music Hall. Tickets are on sale now. Call 256-539-9974. This show will sell out!
Reference: www.sammytsplace.com


text:
watch 02:47
The Loop (Games)
Do you like this video?
The Extractinator is an item added in the 1.2 update. It turns silt and slush blocks into more valuable items like Ores, Coins, and Gemstones. The Amber Mosquito (spawns pet dinosaur) might rarely be extracted. It is one easy way to get alternative ores to the ones spawned in your world, i.e. Iron ore if your world spawned with Lead. It is the only legal method to obtain Amber and Amber Mosquito in the game.
The possible output result of the Extractinator does not seem to vary from the block used (Slush or Silt). Possible outputs include:
- Easymode Ores:- Copper, Tin, Iron, Lead, Silver, Tungsten, Gold, Platinum. 1/3 or 33.3% chance.
- Gems:- Amethyst, Topaz, Sapphire, Emerald, Ruby, Diamond. 1/25 or 4% chance.
- Amber. 1/50 or 2% chance.
- Amber Mosquito. 1/5000 or 0.02% chance.
Otherwise you will receive coins instead.
- Platinum Coin. 1/5000 or 0.02% chance. (Hardmode Only)
- Gold Coin. 1/400 or 0.25% chance.
- Silver Coin. 1/30 or 3.3% chance.
- Copper Coin. Guaranteed if all else fails or 57.13% chance.
Update info
- Added to the game.
Community content is available under CC-BY-SA unless otherwise noted.


text:
Are There Blind Spots In Chicago Illinois ?
Posted in Automotive News on September 18, 2014
All Chicago drivers have blind spots – and no, I'm not talking about the fact that you really don't sing like Adele. I mean the areas of the road that you can't see when you're driving around Chicago.
First let's talk about our own blinds spots, and then we can talk about others...
To begin, we can greatly reduce blind spots by properly adjusting our mirrors to give the widest coverage possible. Make the adjustments in your SUV before you start to drive.
First, Chicago auto owners should adjust their rear view mirrors to give the best possible view directly to the rear of their SUV. Chicago folks don't need it to get a better view of either side of the car, the kids in the back seat or their dazzling smile. It's pretty manageable, the rear view mirror should reflect the rear.
Next, lean your head until it almost touches the driver's side window. Adjust your side mirror so that you can just barely see the side of your car. Now, lean your head to the middle of the car and adjust the outside mirror so that you can barely see the right side of the car.
When Chicago car owners adjust their mirrors this way, they'll have maximum coverage. Of course driving is a dynamic process – things change every second on Chicago roads and busy highways. So it's wise to take a quick look to the side when passing to make sure that another SUV hasn't moved into an area you couldn't see in your mirrors.
Depending on the kind of vehicle you drive (SUV?), you may still have some blind spots. All vehicles have an area behind them that's blind when backing up. The bigger the vehicle, the bigger the blind spot. A pick-up or SUV can hide a small child – an RV, bus or tractor-trailer can hide an entire vehicle. So be careful out there on our Chicago streets and in your driveway at your Chicago home!
As you drive around the Chicago area, avoid staying in other motorists' blind spots. You can't count on them to be watching their mirrors and looking out for you.
Let's talk about safely sharing our Illinois roads with heavy trucks and buses. In crashes involving a truck and car, the driver of the car is to blame for about 40 percent of the accidents. But 78 percent of the fatalities are with the car. The laws of physics are against the smaller vehicle, so it is important for Chicago drivers to take extra precautions around trucks and buses.
Heavy vehicles have huge blind spots: to the rear, on both sides and up front. They also can't maneuver like a car. They take twice as long to stop and need twice as much space as you do in your SUV or other type of car. You need to keep wide margins when driving around one of these big rigs on Chicago area expressways.
Here are some tips for passing a heavy vehicle in the Chicago area:
Avoid the blind spots. If you can't see the Chicago auto owners's face in one of his mirrors or in a window, he cannot see you!
Don't follow too close. If you can't see one of the truck's mirrors, you're too close.
Make sure there is plenty of room to pass. Trucks are long and take time to get around. If you're on one of our local Chicago, Illinois two-lane highways, wait for a passing zone.
Don't linger when passing. Because the blind spots are so big on the sides, you want to get through them quickly. If you can't pass quickly, drop back.
Pass on the left whenever possible. A trucks' blind spot is much larger on the right.
Be attentive and wear your seat belt while driving anywhere around Chicago, even for short drives. Don't be aggressive when driving around trucks. Because of their size, they appear to be going slower than they really are. Cutting it short around a truck could be disastrous.
Use your turn signals when starting to pass. Once you can see the full truck in your rear view mirror, it's safe to signal and move over. It's important not to cut it short or slow quickly when you pull in front of a truck.
Be careful passing a truck at an intersection in Chicago. Trucks need to turn wide to maneuver through Chicago streets. Squeezing between a truck and the curb could put your car in your Chicago body shop or Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy). Look for the truck's turn signals.
The team of automotive professionals at Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy) want you to watch those blind spots – but feel free to sing in the shower all you want.
Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy)
We're on 1400 West Diversey Pkwy in Chicago, Illinois (60614)
Call us to make an appointment at 773-929-3622.


text:
Performance Warehouse configuration
Use the Server Settings Performance Warehouse pane to set up connection details to use an external database. Use the external database to store Performance Warehouse data, manage System Profiles, and set the maximum duration for how data is kept. See Performance Warehouse Administration for more information.
Connection details
Cyclic measurement data persists in the embedded Derby database or in a SQL DBMS (DB2, Oracle, PostgreSQL and Microsoft SQL Server). The embedded database is for testing only and its usage is limited to certain licenses. See Embedded Performance Warehouse Usage Restrictions for more information. See System Requirements for SQL DBMS minimum supported versions.
Changing the AppMon Performance Warehouse database
You can only change the database when a database is not connected. Follow these steps to change the Performance Warehouse database.
- Click Settings > Dynatrace Server > Performance Warehouse > Connection Details and click Disconnect to disconnect the current database.
- Provide a database type, host, port, user, and password to specify the new database. The Java Cryptographic Extension encrypts the password.
- Click Test Connection to verify that the Performance Warehouse database is available.
- Click Connect to connect to the database and create the tables.
The AppMon Performance Warehouse is now set up to the configured database. Click the Rebuild Schema to rebuild the whole database schema.
When you rebuild the schema, all Performance Warehouse data is lost.
See Performance Warehouse Administration for more database connection information.
Manage System Profiles
The System Profiles Management tab of the Performance Warehouse pane shows the System Profiles available in the Performance Warehouse. To remove unnecessary measurements or incidents from a System Profile's Performance Warehouse storage, select a System Profile and click Delete Measurements/Incidents. Click Remove to delete a System Profile and all its data from the Performance Warehouse.
Manage storage
Use the Storage Management tab to set the length of time data are kept in high, medium, and low resolutions and when they are consolidated into the next lower level. The data point interval is ten seconds for data in memory and one minute, hour, or day for high, medium, or low resolutions in the database respectively. See Resolution for more information.
Performance Warehouse database versus session store files
The Performance Warehouse database continuously stores data from both system monitoring such as CPU and memory usage, and PurePath timings. Data is stored at 10-seconds granularity at the highest resolution. Granularity is diminished at the medium (hour) and low (day) resolutions.
Stored session files can contain a memory dump, thread dump, sampling, or full PurePath information. Stored PurePath Sessions also include time series data.
To explicitly store parts of such live sessions:
AppMon 2017
In the Cockpit right-click your System Profile and select Session Storage > Start Recording. In the Start Session Recording dialog box, give a name to the stored session, and select content to be stored.
To stop recording select Stop recording in the same menu. Stored sessions can be found in the Session Storage section of the Cockpit.
The Export Session option packs up the stored session into
.dtsfiles. Imported sessions are available in Offline > Local Sessions section of the Cockpit.
AppMon 2018 April and later
In the sidebar, click Settings > Start Session Recording. In the Start Session Recording dialog box, give a name to the stored session, and select content to be stored.
To stop recording select Stop Session recording in the same sub-bar. Stored sessions can be found in the Session selector.
The Export Session option packs up the stored session into
.dtsfiles. Imported sessions are available in the Session selector.


text:
Rock Top Painting
Call or E-mail me (Jason) to arrange a time to discuss your needs. Whether you are in need of Exterior House Painting, Interior House Painting, Commercial painter or a combination, I can accommodate you. Just call me and we can create a custom scope of work built just for you and your home.


text:
MIRPUR (AJK) - AJK Prime Minister Raja Farooq called on Leader of the House in the Senate Raja Zafarul Haq and briefed him about the fresh situation on Line of Control (LoC).
Speaking on the occasion, AJK prime minister said that Kashmir freedom struggle has entered a new phase after the martyrdom of Burhan Muzaffar Wani.
Talking to AJK prime minister, Raja Zafarul Haq said that Pakistan would continue to extend political, diplomatic and moral support to the people of Jammu and Kashmior in their just and principled struggle for right to self-determination.
He said that the Kashmiris on other side of LoC wrote a new history by continuing their struggle under strict curfew. He said that some shortsighted and politically immature politicians are engaged in destabilising the country keeping aside the freedom movement of Kashmir and security threats from India. Raja Zafarul Haq further said that Indian forces deployed in Kashmir have crossed all the limits by perpetrating inhuman excesses on the freedom-loving people of Kashmir.
He expressed his great satisfaction over the performance of PML-N government in AJK and added that we are fully aware that the government in the State is implementing the mission and vision of Nawaz Sharif by initiating development process.
He said that government and entire nation firmly stand with the people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir in their struggle against tyranny and barbarism being committed by India.
HR ABUSES CONDEMNED: Ugly face of India would expose if she denied Pakistan's move of raising Kashmir issue in the UNSC. Raja Zulfiqar talks to media.
Jammu & Kashmir People's National Party chief Raja Zulfiqar Ahmed strongly condemned the continued increased human rights abuses by the Indian occupational forces in Indian-occupied Jammu & Kashmir.
The JKPNP president said that India has, in fact, lost the occupied state from her hands following the Kashmiris successful indigenous struggle for liberation of the motherland from the Indian subjugation. India, he said, should read writing on the wall and immediately announce the withdrawal of her troops from the occupied territory to pave the way for holding of the plebiscite in entire Jammu & Kashmir state under the aegis of the UN.
The Kashmiri leader also lambasted India for her nefarious move of changing the demography of Indian occupied Jammu & Kashmir through managing the permanent settlement of the Indian nationals (non-state subjects) belonging to various parts of India, in the Indian-held Jammu & Kashmir state.
The Kashmiri leader accused India of hiding behind a picture to divert the world's attention from the fast deteriorating situation on the ground in India-held Jammu & Kashmir – where the Indian occupational forces have unleashed the reign of state terrorism for the last past 70 years in general and the last 27 months in particular.


text:
Learn More Page 7a
What's in a name – Aristides?
A note here about the name of the first Kentucky Derby winner:
Aristides (pronounced ari-STIDE-ees) was named by owner Hal Price McGrath for Aristides Welch, the owner of Aristides's sire Leamington.
It's an unusual name for a horse – or a person – but has a neat spot in history. It comes from the ancient Greek soldier and writer Aristides, who fought at the battle of Marathon, 490 B.C. That's the battle that saved Greece, and, of course, the origin of the name marathon for the Olympic 26 mile foot race. Aristides fought in that battle.
Later, Aristides was ostracized as a rival of Themistocles, which is kind of like being politically and socially snubbed. But Aristides stuck loyally with Athens and in 480 B.C. became a hero of the battle at Salamis – fighting in alone against the enemy at one point to turn the tide of battle.
Aristides. A fine name for a noble thoroughbred.


text:
Xbox mouthpiece Larry 'Major Nelson' Hryb last night announced that Microsoft will announce it's next generation gaming system at an event in May. He posted the following on his blog:
On Tuesday May 21st, we'll mark the beginning of a new generation of games, TV and entertainment. On that day, we'll be holding a special press event on the Xbox campus and we invite you to join us via the live global stream that will be available on Xbox LIVE and Xbox.com. If you are in the US or Canada, you can also watch the broadcast on Spike TV.
On that day, we'll share our vision for Xbox, and give you a real taste of the future. Then, 19-days later at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles, we'll continue the conversation and showcase our full lineup of blockbuster games.
We are thrilled to pull back the curtain and reveal what we've been working on.
The event will take place at 5pm GMT, and I'll certainly be watching it unfold live on my 360. Hopefully the stream will be more reliable than the frustrating livestream of Sony's PS4 event!
Soon we'll know what to expect from all camps for the coming generation, and I can't help but be excited about what's to come. This year's E3 should be great!
Major Nelson's blog:


text:
Here's a combo that can help protect your life points:
Use Fox Fire and Spirit Barrier together on the field.
Spirit Barrier prevents you from taking battle damage as long as you have a monster on your side of the field. Fox Fire returns to your side of the field at the end of a turn when it is destroyed by battle, if it is face-up.
Be careful if you use this combo. It might be hard to get rid of Fox Fire when you want to, as it cannot be used for a Tribute Summon. You can, however, use it for Synchro or Xyz Summons.
While you have Fox Fire on the field, you can play Creature Swap to switch monsters with your opponent. Use their high attack monster to destroy Fox Fire on their side of the field for big life point damage. During the end phase, Fox Fire will be Special Summoned back to your side of the field.
There are plenty of other ways to combo Fox Fire – what can you think of?
Rule the Duel!


text:
Learning Goal: Understand the Law of Conservation of Energy.
Today: Roller Coaster Design Investigation
- Given: pipe insulation, marbles, tape, ring stands & clamps, timing & measuring devices and apps
- Find: Design a simple roller coaster to test whether the total energy of a car–Earth system is conserved if there are no external forces exerted on it by other objects. Your coaster should include a camelback and a vertical loop.
- Report: Include multiple representations (5?) of energy at various points in the coaster to provide evidence for your claims. You should include a bar chart (see this tutorial for help), the mathematical expression of conservation of energy (use the bar charts as your guide), and the corresponding calculations to evaluate whether the outcome of the experiment supports the idea of energy conservation.
- 2/1: Practice 6.7
- 2/3: Practice 6.8
- 2/6: Quiz


text:
Back in college I wrote one of my English papers on what is now known as the middle class squeeze. It has always fascinated me to compare how different people live such different financial lives and oftentimes we all have such different journeys; in making money, investing money, spending money and enjoying money.
My first interest was as a young child. My mom was an internal auditor, and bookeeper for over sixteen years before changing careers to take care of the aged and those that suffer from mind altering illnesses such as altzheimers. She was a single mom from the time I was eight, and so she openly would discuss money with my younger sister and I. She showed work ethic, and also is extremely frugal and taught me the art of streching a dollar.
I grew up in an idyllic English village, and had many friends. One of which had parent's who were getting ready to sell their home for over three quarters of a million, to retire in France. One would assume from the outset that they must make a lot of money, however her dad would often talk of how they managed to get to this point with a mere salary of no more that thirty-six thousand pounds in his lifetime. His wife, also didn't ever work. Instead she stayed home, to raise four children and to oversee projects. So how did they get there? Well, my friends mom cooked a lot. Her own breads, pastries, and they would also entertain their friends who would oftentimes bring a side dish, or a bottle of wine. They also found ways to buy rental properties. And now, although retired they own a home in France that has a Gite {rental home} that brings in a liveable income, so they don't have to tap into savings for many more years.
Anyways, as I travelled to America at nineteen to come to college, I got to experience a cultural difference between the amount earnt, the amount spent and also noticed that a lot of American's were either too tired, or too busy. Obviously, other Western European countries are this way also. I think the biggest difference in culture is how we interact with each other. In Europe, if you visit your friends, you oftentimes stay through the night chatting, talking, eating until either you invite them to stay for the night, or they have to go to bed. Whereas here, after dessert your guests have left and you're watching re-runs on DVR...and you know they are too because they tweeted it. Maybe we are spending money on conveniences because we're too busy, or too tired to do otherwise?
Or, is it a sign of the times. If you've read Elizabeth Warren's book 'The Two-Income Trap: Why Middle Class Parents are Going Broke' you'd be rivited. It discusses how the most un-financially well off, are women with children in the 21st century. Here's the book description:
It talks about how today's two-income families earns more than a generation ago, but has less money to cover living costs. A result of womens liberation? Or have we re-conditioned ourselves on what's a need or want? Also, what are we teaching our children? Because afterall, we are the role models for the next generation.
I found this piece by Sandy Smith, really intersting. She compares the cost of living and income's earned today compared to the 1950's.
"The 1950s were a time of great prosperity and economic growth in the United States. Today, looking at the decade objectively, we realize it wasn't quite the post-war utopia portrayed in the media of the day or the nostalgic recreations since. Nonetheless, many look back fondly on what they view as a simpler time. One thing a lot of folks envy from that time is the cost of living. Everything in 2011 seems so much more expensive. Of course, no one in today's world expects to pay 18 cents for a gallon of gas, $25 for a man's suit, or $1,500 for a brand new car[1]. Still, paychecks just don't seem to go as far now as they did then. Or do they?
Many Factors to Consider
When you compare the cost of living in the 1950s with today's cost of living, you have to consider a variety of factors. For example, some things are actually cheaper to produce now than they were in the 1950s. Of course, most of today's goods and services come with higher price tag, but people also get paid proportionately more.
Household Income Then and Now
In 1955, the median household income in the U.S. was around $5,000[2]. That means half of all households earned more than $5,000, while half brought in less. Adjusted for inflation, that translates to around $25,000 today. However, today's median household income is just over $40,000. We're not really making that much more money though. That $15,000 difference can be attributed, in large part, to the increase in the number of two-income households since the middle of the twentieth century [3]. The big difference between expenses then and now is the amount of stuff we buy. We also tend to live in much bigger houses.
Average Home Size 1950 vs. Today
The average size of a new house in 1950 was 983 square feet. In 2004 it stood at 2,349 square feet [4]. At the same time, family size went from about 3.5 persons per household, to around 2.5 today [5]. A bigger house incurs more costs, even with fewer people living there.
We also buy more things to put into our homes today. Comedian George Carlin once described houses as "a place to keep your stuff while you go out and get more stuff." TVs, computers, mobile devices, game systems, microwave ovens, and gadgets of all sorts fill a typical 21st century dwelling. In the 1950s, a family had a television, a few radios perhaps, and the most basic of household appliances and furniture. Today, many houses–certainly most new ones– have central air conditioning. This was unheard of in the 1950s, even in warmer climates.
There were fewer cars as well. By the end of the 1950s, less than 3% of households owned three or more vehicles. In 2009, it was almost 20% [6]. More cars mean more car-related expenditures–from routine maintenance and fuel to major repairs and insurance premiums.
A Dollar Then, a Dollar Now
So, we're buying a lot more stuff with roughly the same amount of money, meaning consumption is taking up a bigger portion of household budgets. But do the items we purchase cost more today? The Bureau of Labor Statistics website has a fun little online gadget that allows you to convert dollar amounts from one year into those of another. For example, a loaf of bread in 1955 cost around 18 cents, which converts to about $1.50 today. Depending on the brand of bread you buy, that sounds about right. A new car in 1955 was about $1,500. Today, that same car will cost you $12,000. That may get you a pretty basic car, but remember that the 2011 model is much safer, gets better mileage, and has a lot more features.
TV Time
Of course, some items have come down in price; televisions for instance. In 1955, a new TV would set you back $250.00. That's $2,100 now. For that kind of money, you could now buy a top-of-the-line TV. Even with $250 in today's money, you could purchase a far nicer set than the one your grandparents used to watch I Love Lucy and Milton Berle. Then again, we're buying a lot more of them. In fact, while the average household is 2.5 persons, it has 2.86 televisions [7]. Also, in the 1950s, programming was free. Today, most people have cable, or satellite, a monthly expenditure that easily runs over $50 a month. Add that to household expenses that people in mid-century America never dealt with, like Internet and mobile phone service.
Living Large
If you were to live like someone in the 1950s, you could live fairly comfortably. Indeed, by mid-twentieth century standards you'd be well-off, even with a modest income. However, living in a small house with one television, no cable or satellite service, one car, no air conditioning, and so on is seen as a low standard of living in 2011. You could certainly cut back some. Do you really need three high-definition TVs or a 3,000-square-foot house? You likely need a computer and Internet service, because that's simply the way the world is now. Mobile phones are more of a necessity now as well. Have you looked for a pay phone lately?
Perhaps we need to assess what we really want from our standard of living, and adjust our expenditures accordingly. On average we are living better now than at any point in history, but the key to happiness may be in finding ways to make it more affordable."
It really is thought provoking. I could compare all day. But I hope I made my discussion light, about how we must be good examples to our children. Talk with them about finances, so they have an understaning. Also, finding ways to make do the 1950's way and possibly re-evaluate the stress that mom's are having with having to help provide for their two-income families. Do we look enough at whether some cultures, compared to others have maintained a financial happy balance, that leaves us less tired, less busy and more fulfilled to enjoy our lives. Ultimately, we can make decisions in our homes, are we making the best ones. I'll definitly keep the thought in my mind, hope it sparked on in yours.


text: The show is about two 15 year old twin sisters with completely different personalities who are trying to get along. It's like your typical Disney show filled with some good comedy! Its age appropriate, of course and its definitely something a teenage girl would enjoy watching. I recommend watching this show every Sunday at 8pm/7c on Disney Channel.


text:
Budapest (Budɒpɛʃt), the wonderful Hungarian capital, boasts one of the most beautiful and elegant bridges in the world, the Elisabeth Bridge (Erzsébet híd), named after the popular and admired empress of Austria, Elisabeth of Bavaria, still affectionately known as Sisi (or Sissi), the spouse of Francis Joseph I murdered in 1898 in Geneva; with a total span of 290 meters, the bridge proudly crosses the River Danube and connects the Gellért Hill (Gellért-hegy) in Buda with the Március 15 Square (Marcius 15 ter) in Pest, all visitors at their first experience here will be carried away by a whirlwind of pure emotions.
Destroyed by the Nazi Army at the end of World War II (only the Pest side was partially preserved), the "White Bridge" was the only bridge in Budapest beyond repair deemed too heavily damaged to be reconstructed, consequently a completely new cable-bridge, designed by the Hungarian architect Pál Sávoly, was built between 1960 and 1964 to replace the first one; it was enriched by modern lines and, unlike its predecessor, completely devoid of ornamentation so that it lost definitively its original form and its supremacy as the world's longest chain-type and iron suspension bridge until 1926 (378,6 meters), the lighting has been created by the Japanese lighting designer Motoko Ishii; the construction of the first bridge, designed by Aurél Czekelius and Antal Kherndl, was started in 1897, after an unexpected incident in 1902, it was inaugurated on 10 October 1903, although its size would have enabled a heavy traffic, the first trams and trucks appeared only in 1914; as a commemorative act for the reconstruction of the bridge, two twin plaques have been placed at the southern part of the pillars in Buda and Pest.
Today the Elisabeth Bridge is a must-see in Budapest, its charming shape, its extraordinary simplicity only made up of slender pylons and cables and a snow-white colour attract the well-deserved attention of tourists as well as locals, especially if admired for the first time.
The main attractions of the city also include a large bronze statue sitting in the middle of a stunning garden near the bridgehead, the beautiful monument dedicated to the Empress Sissi, designed by György Zala and Rezső Hikish in 1932 but placed here only in 1984 and the ancient (13th century) Inner City Parish Church (Belvárosi Plébánia Templom) in Pest; the Pest side of the Elizabeth Bridge may be the ideal starting point for a romantic walk along the river through architectural treasures of sophisticated beauty, all around is rich in parks and gardens where to stop for a break while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of one of the largest cities of the world.
Have a wonderful time,You WILL LOVE IT.
I now I do.Thanks Skyline.
Going to Budapest in 2 weeks. This camera is my 'weather watch' so I know what clothes to pack. Thanks Skyline ;-)
Una vista maravillosa de Budapest y su mítico Danubio
Another web cam from SKYLINE its a wonderful view and a lovely walk on this Elisabeth Bridge watching the ferry boats on the Danube passing by.
Bello lugar; los Felicito por su acción y colocar una camara en este lugar.
more, more webcams from beautiful Budapest, please
The new skyline webcam in Budapest! Welcome to the pealr of the Danube :)


text:
Check in here for strategies on completing the Daily and Weekly Challenges in Halo: Reach. If it's your first time, click through the About HRD link above; and add comments below if you've got a good idea of your own for tackling the Challenges today.
Hey all, just wanted to pass on a few quick items:
When we were forced to take time off earlier this year, we became concerned that readers would have moved on or grown accustomed to tackling the Challenges by themselves; but Halo Reach Daily just posted its most heavily trafficked week ever, with several record-setting days, including a tour of the WORDPRESS TOP 100. Yow! So, special thanks to EVERYONE for all coming back to the site after its unexpected break. It's incredibly appreciated.
- I get tons of Friend Requests on XBox because of this site, but I also get what is likely a fair share of randoms too… except that on XBox Live, there's no way to tell the difference. If you want to send me a Friend Request, go right ahead — I'm always happy to play with whoever's interested, and I really dig gaming with new people. But — and this is the important part — when you send an FR, also send a separate message, so that I know you're from HRD, and not just a random who has spammed his Recent Players list. That way, there won't be any chance of me saying, "Who's this?", and (like a retard) deleting the req.
- I'm totally open to all sorts of comments and feedback, good or bad, about anything on this site. I'll never delete a comment just because it criticizes something we've written, and in fact I get a lot more out of the critiques than from otherwise much-appreciated praise. However, keep in mind that the Pillar Of Awesome is a No Douchebag Zone. You've got to be respectful of your fellow readers or you'll be respectfully shown the airlock. As we're all aware, Halo can sometimes be one of those games that attracts….eh, shall we say, maladjusted individuals, and if you really feel the need to get your douchebag on, then the Bungie.net message boards are thataway; but you can't hang out here.
Okay, thanks everyone for listening!
The Challenges have been Spree-happy for the past week or two, so we thought for the Video Of The Week we'd ask our friends over at the ManeX Gaming Channel on YouTube to offer up a bit of a killstreak tutorial, including for that elusive Running Riot medal. Everyone, check it out!
The MXG lads provide clips not of specific Challenges, but of key tactics and techniques intended to help make you a better player across ALL your Challenges. Subscribe to their Channel to get notified of updates, or follow them on Twitter here. Thanks again, guys!
Our regular Screenshot Of The Day returns tomorrow. So, if you haven't done it already, yo: Send your screenshots to firstname.lastname@example.com, or just make a file recommendation to us on XBox (Gamertag: Ender Xer0, with a zero), and we'll take care of the rest. Remember: we're not looking for Forge art or random pix from the Internet; it should be a screenshot of YOU!
TYPES: Kills, Killstyle, Multikills, Special Weapon
SETTINGS: Campaign, Multiplayer
AVERAGE DIFFICULTY: Easy
TOTAL TIME: 50-60 minutes
Type: Kills
Setting: Multiplayer
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 10-15 minutes
Value: ★★★★★
Reward: 1000
Kill 25 enemies in Multiplayer Matchmaking.
As always, we've run out of ordinary ways to say "Play Grifball", and so now we do it with a song. Wait, what's that? You'll call the police again if I start to sing? Geezus Christmas, everyone's a critic. Okay, fine, we'll just run another awesome Grifball screenshot. Today's killer pic courtesy of Kevin Stephens; thanks, Kev! Keep 'em coming, people!
Type: Killstyle / Special Weapon
Setting: Multiplayer
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 5 minutes
Value: ★★★★★
Reward: 1000
Earn 1 sticky grenade kill in a Multiplayer Matchmaking game.
Any Elite gametype will start you with Plasma Grenades, as will Invasion (Covie side) and Pro gametypes (Warden Loadout). But Plasmas are also scattered all over the maps, and respawn almost constantly, so if you prefer a different gametype/loadout you'll still find with more than enough to spare.
Look for playlists that put you on smaller, tighter maps, where close-quarter combat virtually begs you stick opponents with impunity. Enemies with Armor Lock (AKA "Fuckin' Armor-Locking Douchebags" — except, of course, when it's you) will in turn frustrate you with impunity; so, vote for Pro gametypes — which don't allow for Armor-Locking Douchebags — and especially King Of The Hill, where enemies cluster into spamworthy hot-zones that additionally disable Armor Abilities while inside.
- Rumble Pit remains a top option, specifically because it offers a candy store of Elite, Pro and KotH gametypes, on exactly the type of maps that invite you to go stick-or-treating — and you only need to score one, yeah?
- Invasion likewise represents a solid option, since even the open maps still encourage enemies to concentrate around the capture points, though when on the Spartan side you'll need to scope for fallen Plasmas before being able to stick Covies crouched in the countdown zone. Just scan for dead Dinos after one of their attack rushes; you should find them everywhere.
Type: Kills / Special Weapon
Setting: Campaign
Difficulty: Grind
Time: 25-30 minutes
Value: ★★★
Reward: 1500
Kill 200 enemies with precision weapons in the Campaign today.
Load up any Campaign level on Normal that offers a precision weapon plus lots o' Grunts, and get to work.
ONI Sword Base features a DMR start and opens in the middle of a firefight, plus there's a Sniper Rifle at the end of the base-side Terrace for pwning Elites once you've cleared the Jackals and Grunts. Winter Contingency at Rally Point Bravo literally drops you into a Fodder-O-Rama of a firefight; and though you enter with an Assault Rifle, a DMR conveniently awaits your weapon swap on the asphalt leading to the rear bunker, with more ammo for it inside the bunker as well.
(Nightfall, of course, spawns you with a Sniper, but with 200 kills in front of you, it's not exactly going to wrap things quickly; and do you really want Jun telling you to "do it quiet" again? Anyway, take yer pick.)
Concentrate on headshots against Grunts and Jackals, since those award extra Medal cR, and don't waste DMR ammo on the Elites — you'll run out of enemies before hitting the double-century mark and need to revert the Checkpoint anyway; so, unless you feel like sniping, you might as well reset as soon as you've cleaned slate on the lesser Covies.
If you run low on ammo, simply swipe Needle Rifles from the fallen Jackals; those register precision kills as easily as the DMR, but heading into a bunker for a DMR reload can trigger a Checkpoint, meaning you'd have to settle for a full level restart.
Type: Multikill
Setting: Multiplayer
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 10-15 minutes
Value: ★★★★★
Reward: 1000
Earn a Triple-Kill in Multiplayer Matchmaking.
Before the rise of Grifball, this used to actually be challenging; now, a couple of well-timed hammer swings will net you a Trip pretty regularly.
If you're not a fan of the orange dude with the bomb — well, OK, you're adopted, so that explains it — you've still got a number of options that'll skitch the odds in your favor:
- Start with Rumble Pit. More enemies on smaller maps = more Multikills.
- Vote for gametypes on small, tight maps that encourage enemies to converge into single flashpoints: King Of The Hill and Oddball, for example. Spam grenades into the hotzone, followed by DMR or Magnum headshots and the occasional coup-de-grace melee rush. Avoid the area yourself, however; no sense adding your corpse to the fiesta.
- Big Team Battle and Invasion also offer prime Multikill targets: a warthog with a gunner and passenger, or a pack of enemies in the unlock zone of an Invasion phase, for example. Your main problem will not be enemies, but allies: with so many players on each side, you'll have considerable competition to actually score the kills.
Type: Completion
Setting: Campaign
Difficulty: Hard
Time: 90 to 180 minutes
Value: ★★★★
Reward: 15000
Complete Exodus on Legendary with All Skulls On (LASO).
So, while it's true that the game amps up the difficulty for more players in Co-op mode, you'll want the three more guns at your side; otherwise, it'll just be a very long day of level Reloads.
OK then. The mission's much too long for a detailed walkthrough here, so we're going to turn the microphone over to the Mythic Master — the jacket-strapped lunatic who invented the SLASO runs, Tyrant himself — and his in-depth guide posted on Halo.Bungie.Org, where the HRD Challenge Report written by Associate Editor Foxman FX appears each day.
Meanwhile, we'll repeat some of our standard strategies to keep in mind for Legendary difficulty no matter what part of the campaign:
- On Legendary, Reach becomes an almost entirely different game; rather than the run-and-gun, blaze-of-glory style you enjoyed on Normal, Legendary relies much more on strategy than sheer skill. Your kung fu may be strong, but you won't be able to ninja your way out of a Legendary plasma shitstorm.
- Since the Iron Skull will force the entire team back to a Checkpoint after a single player death, you'll also need to play even more defensively— stealthy when possible, and get-the-fuck-out when necessary. If you think you've just done something that would make an awesome kick-ass clip for your File Share, you're probably not doing this right.
- In almost every situation, look to bypass encounters entirely. You're not working toward a Campaign score, so no need to take out every enemy — or, actually, any enemy — if you can skip them. (After all, Reach will get glassed anyway, yeah?)
- To do this, keep an eye out for perimeter runs along the outskirts of hot zones — not only will natural cover help you slip past Covies more easily, but they'll be shooting only from one or two directions; get caught in a crossfire on Legendary and you might as well go grab a sandwich while your game Restarts.
- When you can't bypass enemies, keep a distance/headshot weapon handy for taking them out at range. Use the level's geography to find positions that offer clean lines of sight for precision kills before the enemy AI even figures out where you are.
- Effectively skipping one encounter can even bypass the encounter that comes after it, since enemy and vehicle drops often coincide with combat progress; you might find a subsequent battleground entirely empty, since the Covies will have only begun their landing sequence while you're already getting the hell out of Dodge.
- If it looks like the designers want you to engage a major battle from an obvious point of attack, DON'T. The obvious attack points are for NORMAL difficulty. You'll want another way in, or around, taking out an objective from afar or skipping a firefight entirely.
Whew! Quite a lot to keep in mind. To help you out, here's a video walkthrough — done SOLO, and with the Blind Skull on too — that's a bit long (almost 45 minutes) but well worth the watch if you get frustrated.


text:
The Mecklenburg Chapter was chartered on April 27, 1928 as a chapter in the State of North Carolina Society of the sons of the American Revolution.
Charlotte is a Hornet's nest of rebellion.
- British General Cornwallis after he was driven out of the city by hostile residents.
The Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence was signed on May 20, 1775, making Mecklenburg County the first part of the Thirteen Colonies to declare independence from Great Britain.
See Our Chapter Events Calendar
In the photo above, members of the Mecklenburg chapter Color Guard, including son and daughter of chapter president Stephen McKee, march in the Mooresville Veterans Parade on November 13, 2019.


text:
Offers Encouraged - Must Sell
Excellent Condition - Fiberglass Construction - Indoor Stored
Engines & Gears Removed - Price can be quoted with replacements
Tamaja III is a lovingly maintained New England Classic! She has had only 2 owners, her current one for the past 45 years. She was built by Pearson Yacht in Rhode Island and is known for her heavy solid fiberglass construction and her sea keeping ability and soft ride. She has had many upgrades and refits in the past 6 years including a complete Awlgrip finished hull, super structure, tanks and much more!
For more information please contact Dana Brandt 508-728-5756 or firstname.lastname@example.com
View our website: www.smithyacht.com to view our complete inventory of listings and learn more about new Southport Boats and Albury Brothers Yachts.
The Galley is located on the starboard side with lots of storage.
1. Power Boats Only
2. Vessel must be less than 10 years old
3. No Project Boats
4. If a Trade Value is given, it is only good for 30 days.
24 Shipyard Drive
Unit 204
Hingham, MA 02043
United States


text:
If you're having a bad day, this sweet story from a high school graduation is about to make your day a whole lot brighter, but it also might make you tear up.
One New York high school student's dreams came true during his high school graduation ceremony thanks to a bit of help from his classmates and all of those in attendance - he was able to walk across the stage and receive his diploma just like every one else. And he did so in silence.
Jack Higgins, the graduate from Carmel High School, has autism and is highly sensitive to loud noises. So the school's principal, Lou Riolo, asked Jack's fellow graduates and all of their family and friends to refrain from clapping or shouting at all when Jack came out to graduate.
Lou explained the situation before Jack, who has been a student at the school for eight years, was introduced at the June ceremony: "Unlike many of us, Jack is super sensitive to loud noises... "I'm going to ask a big favor of everybody today. I would like everyone to not clap, and not cheer. That's correct. Not clap and not cheer, because it may overstimulate Jack as he comes to the podium to receive his diploma."
And the kindness of every one in that room really came through, because the silent ovation was a huge success, as you can see in the emotional and sweet video below.
As you can see, at the beginning, Jack has his ears covered just in case there is some loud noise, but it quickly becomes obvious that he does not need to cover his ears, because everyone is staying completely silent and either waving their hands in the air or giving Jack an incredibly quiet golf clap.
I honestly held it together at first. But then when everyone started standing. Oh I completely lost it.
Shout out to the incredibly kind and compassionate students of Carmel High School in New York. This was such a beautiful moment, and I can't imagine how much it meant to Jack and his family for them to be able to all experience this moment.
Get more from Sisanie here!


text:
While considering a commercial marijuana policy within city limits, Willits city officials have been getting some pressure from local business owners and others from just outside the region interested in a permit for potential indoor growing operations. And 30-year-old Kevin Shi is one of them.
Outgoing Willits City Council member Holly Madrigal said although a working group has been meeting to talk about commercial cultivation, no draft ordinance has been worked on yet and the group has been asked to present one to the city council for review.
"Our property owners are wanting to start cannabis cultivation as soon as it is legalized," she said.
Shi is part of an investment group which purchased the old 42,000-square-foot AM&D building located at 3000 E. Hill Road. He said his main motivation to get involved in the emerging industry was not financially motivated, despite the fact he realizes the potential economic boon to the city from commercial marijuana sales and taxes.
"I have personal close member, family members who have cancer and HIV and to see the amazing effect on them, that's what started me going into this business," he said. "I started into the business before the California Medical Marijuana and Safety Regulation Act (MMRSA) passed.
Although he grew up in Las Vegas, Nev. he has been a resident of Redwood Valley for the past three years and commutes weekly to oversee the management of the property. He graduated from Penn State University in 2008 where he studied engineering. Shi said he has been working with close to 20 investors involved with SWS Consulting. The company is involved in Redwood Valley's medical marijuana dispensary and cultivation program.
Shi said right now Willits is facing a financial issue and council members should realize that and try to get in on the emerging opportunity open by marijuana, while also taking advantage of the geography and reputation of the region.
"It's not like Willits has a lot of industry right now," he said. "It was logging but that's long gone, right now you have a handful of industrial companies in the city but there are a lot of vacant lots in industrial zones."
He said there exist at least two or three buildings that remain vacant. Shi said his facility is ready to accommodate an environmentally conscious indoor growing operation.
"We try to achieve zero emissions here and we have an environmental sustainability manager on staff," he said, "But the city wasn't ready to listen to more details because the city right now has a ban, a person can only grow six plants indoors."
"This is the whole idea of the change of the law. From now on cannabis is an agriculture product, it's all going to be a commercial product whether they pass the recreational use or not, we are still talking about the transformation from underground to commercial industry."
Shi said Mendocino is lagging behind Sonoma County, Humboldt and other areas.
"Humboldt jumped on it, county government went knocking on people's doors to tell them how to apply for permits," he said. "The state said we are going to regulate it two-tier. You can only apply for state license if you obtain your local permit first. If the local municipality doesn't do anything, they will default this to the state regulations."
Shi said a lot of municipalities don't want to give their power and control to the state. They have to figure out a regulation to pre-screen programs before the state application process gets underway in Jan. 2018. He said businesses have a year window to obtain local approval.
"This is why you see this wave hitting everywhere," he said, adding civic leaders need to take advantage of geography and timing.
"Eureka is too far away from major cities and populations. Willits is two hours from San Francisco, people are talking about where is the next Napa. It doesn't make sense for California marijuana to be well known and you don't know where the best product is coming from," Shi said.
He said people do know when they travel around the world, when people talk about Mendocino, the first thing that comes to people's mind is probably marijuana.
"For better or worse," he said. "But now it's time to take advantage of this instead of dragging behind Oakland, Santa Rosa and other cities."
City Council member Ron Orenstein said this week he is not driven by the economics of the issue.
"Every year we do a budget and every year I am completely aware that our budget starts out in the red and we struggle to get it somewhere to the black," Orenstein said. "I am very sensitive to the fact that we need income in this town to operate the city, but as I mentioned before I am also driven by the fact that the welfare of the community and the quality of life in the community has to trump that."


text:
Spent the day covering this event celebrating the 75th anniversary of the first British Airways flight from London to Hong Kong. During the event, models displayed the many uniforms that BA cabin crew have worn over the decades. These were all flown in from the BA Museum in Heathrow, London.
Also tying in with this event, BA showcased their new 1st Class seat and opened a competition to win two tickets to London 1st class for the time over the Royal Wedding later this year.


text:
If you want to increase the pagerank and traffic to your site there are many SEO options available but one of the most crucial methods is by gaining relevant backlinks to your website. Backlinks are vital in raising the profile of your website as up to 75% of Google's ranking factors are attributed to off page aspects. Google counts every inbound link as a vote for that particular website and an increases the amount of trust that is built up if Google recognizes that these backlinks are of a good quality.
There are several ways to determine if a particular link from a website holds any value – including checking the pagerank of the website and how much value Google attributes to that website, and checking that the link anchor text contains keywords related to your site.
It is also important to check, whenever you're attempting to build up links, if they have a follow or no follow attribute attached to them. A follow attribute will allow the link to be counted as a vote for your website within Google's algorithm whilst a no follow attribute will block the link from being counted as a vote. The relevancy of the link is also important as there is little point in gaining a backlink from a website that has no relevance to the particular business sector you're involved with.
Within link building it is also important to check your link velocity i.e. how fast your website is acquiring links, the link age as Google attributes more value to older links and if the link comes from a domain with a certain amount of authority such as addresses that end in .edu and .gov.
Link building comes in various different formats including: 1 way links, standard text linking, contextual linking, hosted content, online press releases, information article syndication, viral/link baiting, social bookmarking and directory submissions. It is vital for you to choose which method is the most appropriate for your line of business and website.
Remember that when choosing which websites to link from it is always more important to consider quality over quantity, there is little use in gaining a lot of links from sites with a page rank of 0 or 1 whilst a site with a page rank of 5 or higher is of a lot more value.
Finally if you are going to pay for links make sure you keep it to a minimum and that the links you do pay for are of relevancy to line of business you are involved in.


text:
Through an official blog post and the group's official website on January 15, 2017, Momoiro Clover Z member Ariyasu Momoka announced her upcoming graduation from the group. The 22 year-old longtime green member of the group expressed desire to live the life of an ordinary girl. A child actress a …Read More »
Ariyasu Momoka – Kokoro no Oto (1st Album)
CD Track List (All versions) 01. Kokoro no Senritsu 02. Catch up 03. Hamster 04. Pedal 05. feel a heartbeat 06. Another story 07. Drive Drive 08. Hadaka 09. Aisaretakute 10. Touboe 11. Chisana Yuki 12. TRAVEL FANTASISTA 13. Iro Enpitsu 14. Hikari no Koe Limited A Blu Ray …Read More »
New PV Alert: Ariyasu Momoka (Momoiro Clover Z) – feel a heartbeat (live video)
Wielding an electric guitar is probably not what you thought you'd see from MomoCloZ's Momoka. But, here is the green girl strumming her axe and singing on a huge stage. Judging by the different outfits and hair lengths, this footage comes from a few performances with the studio recording of …Read More »
New PV Alert: Ariyasu Momoka (Momoiro Clover Z) – Hikari no Koe
Ariyasu Momoka makes a legitimate bid at artist status with her new song and promotional video "Hikari no Koe". The prettily made-up Momoka takes a serious look at the working world through the shards of a fractured mirror. Clearly the light plays a strong part of this release as Momoka …Read More »
New PV Alert: Ariyasu Momoka (Momoiro Clover Z) – Iro Enpitsu
I've always rated Ariyasu Momoka among the better vocalists in the idol world, and the Momoiro Clover Z idol gets her chance to show off her skills with a solo album and this delicate melodic offering. The promotional video shows us some animation of the titular color pencils and juvenile …Read More »
New PV Alert: Momoiro Clover Z – Kyoukai no Pendulum
The cinematic rain falls in the new Momoiro Clover Z promotional video "Kyoukai no Pendulum". On this coupling track to "BLAST!", MCZ pulls out the stops: the rain descends, the girls emote, and the camera spins around the solo shots like, well, a pendulum. "Kyoukai no Pendulum" sports a distinctively …Read More »
Momoiro Clover Z – BLAST! (New Single)
CD Track List 1. Yum-Yum! 2. Survival of the Fittest -interlude 3. BLAST! 4. 何時だって挑戦者 [Type A] 4. 境界のペンデュラム [Type B] 4. 何時だって挑戦者 [Single, Maxi] 5. 境界のペンデュラムv[Single, Maxi] Type A Blu ray Track List 1. "BLAST! "Music Video 2. "BLAST! "Music VIdeo オフショット映像 Type B Blu ray Track List 1. …Read More »
New PV Alert: Momoiro Clover Z – BLAST!
Let's treat the business of idols like the serious athleltic competition that it really is. Momoiro Clover take an olympic challenge with Kanako at Judo, Ayaka at Weightlifting, Shiori at Foil, and the duo of Momoka & Reni at Doubles Table Tennis. Seeing the girls of MomoClo Z at battle …Read More »
MomoClo-chan Z – Guchoki Party ~Minna Norinori-!~ (1st Album)
Buy MomoClo-chan Z's "Guchoki Party ~Minna Norinori-!~"! ~theNumber244~ CD + DVD Amazon.jp | CDJapan | YesAsia Note: This site participates in the amazon.co.jp associates and the cdjapan affiliates programs, a program with hundreds of thousands of members to promote sales on the Internet . Using the links above can help …Read More »
New PV Alert: Momoiro Clover Z – Santa-san + MCZ Winter Song Medley with Matsuzaki Shigeru
This isn't so much a new promotional video as it is a massive Katamari of Momoiro Clover Z winter performances and songs. The highlight here is Shigeru lipping the lyrics and dancing to MCZ's conspicuously large winter song collection including the massively entertaining "Santa-san". In this resepct, the video does …Read More »


text:
Sunday, March 17, 2013
I need my supplies!!!
11 comments:
- JoAnn Ross said...
I love this CAS card! Too cool to make part of the flower from one of the papers and that's a perfect place for the wonderful sentiment!
- March 17, 2013 at 4:02 PM
- Diane said...
You did GREAT with limited supplies....this is great if you had all your supplies! Very pretty, cheerful colors!
And thanks for you comment- I made your suggested changes to my card--- much better!!!!
- March 17, 2013 at 5:06 PM
- Donna Hanley said...
Love it. This card can still be used as a Mother's Day card or a card for any loved one. I think you did a fabulous with your limited supplies. No one would guess you were missing some of your supplies. Very pretty.
- March 17, 2013 at 5:08 PM
- Jen M said...
Very cute! Love the flower. :) just think of how great it will be to have all your stuff together again... :)
- March 17, 2013 at 6:03 PM
- snappy scrappy said...
So pretty!
- March 17, 2013 at 6:13 PM
- Sandy said...
Nice!! Limited supplies is what I'll have in coming weeks with my remodel - EEEP! Tell me I'll live through it, please....your card came out cute!
- March 17, 2013 at 7:18 PM
- Penny Ward said...
Really cute card ! I feel your pain in missing your supplies. I live in 2 different places also, so some supplies here, some there...YIKES! I have joined your blog. I hope you will join mine also. www.pennywardink.com
- March 17, 2013 at 7:41 PM
- BobbisTreasure said...
Your elements all work together perfectly! I think fewer supplies make me be more creative in my approach. (Please don't tell my husband I said that!!!)
- March 17, 2013 at 8:29 PM
- Vi soriano said...
Simple cute card....nice color combo.
- March 18, 2013 at 1:11 AM
- Sybrina K said...
I, too, love how you used the background papers to make your flower. Also like how you framed the flower with black to make it pop even more. Best wishes in your new place. :)
- March 18, 2013 at 2:52 PM
- Carol L said...
Very pretty card, and I love your take on the sketch! We both took the exact same liberties! LOL
Best wishes in your new digs :)
- March 19, 2013 at 6:49 PM


text:
Directed By: Joseph Zito
Screenplay By: James Bruner
Story By: John Crowther, Lance Hool
Based upon characters created by Arthur Silver, Larry Levinson, Steve Bing
Produced By: Menahem Golan, Yoram Globus
Cast: Chuck Norris, M. Emmett Walsh, Lenore Kasdorf, James Hong
MPAA Rating: R
Runtime: 108 minutes
Review Date: December 15, 2010
From 1979-1993, the Cannon Group — headed by Menahem Golan and Yoram Globus — released a string of surprisingly successful low-budget films. They made stars of Chuck Norris and Jean-Claude Van Damme, they lured bigger stars like Sylvester Stallone and Charles Bronson into their company, and they glommed onto huge franchise properties like Masters of the Universe, Superman, and Spider-Man. Despite the financial success of the films, the company almost always ran at a loss, and Cannon's insistence on the lowest possible budget yielded bizarre but uniquely charming films. The goal of Cannon Corner is to pay homage to these films.
Missing in Action opens with a sequence somewhat reminiscent of Apocalypse Now. "I'm still only in Saigon." Well, Braddock (Chuck Norris) can't believe he's still in the U.S. When the U.S. Army declared him missing in action (hence the title) and abandoned their search for him and his men, it took Braddock seven years to get home. Now that he's there, he's sickened by the apparent diplomacy between American political and military officials and the propped-up dictator (James Hong) who brokered peace between the U.S. and Vietnam.
Since returning to freedom not long ago, Braddock spends most of his time in hot, filthy transient hotels, reliving the nightmare of his jungle incarceration. The combination of Norris's brooding intensity and Jay Chattaway's minimalist, Moog-based score (think Midnight Express, because that's probably what he was borrowing from) bring startling emotion to an otherwise stereotypical one-man army action hero. Unlike the strikingly similar Rambo: First Blood Part II, Braddock's single-minded obsession with rescuing his fellow prisoners — long after the government has written them off and ended the "war" — makes sense in light of the pain and rage on display in the film's first few minutes.
There's not much to the rest of the film. After initially refusing to take part in a publicity photo-op (masquerading as an investigation of soldiers still MIA) in Saigon, Braddock realizes this is his only opportunity to get anywhere close to Vietnam. If he can get close, he can get to Vietnam and rescue his brothers in arms. Real Philippines locations lend stark, sweaty verisimilitude to a fairly schlocky, simplistic plot. Braddock visits shady bars and sleazy brothels, trying to put together the arsenal he'll need to bust in and take back his men by force. Aiding him in his quest are Tuck (M. Emmett Walsh), an ex-soldier well-connected in the underground, and Ann (Lenore Kasdorf), the sexy diplomat assigned by the embassy to babysit Braddock. Once they assemble the arsenal, Braddock and Tuck head across the pond to Vietnam. From there — well, let's just say this film reminded me how viscerally and enthusiastically I respond to the sound of machine-gun fire. I spent far too much of my childhood watching movies like Missing in Action, so there's an odd comfort in the wanton violence dominating the film's second half. Your mileage may vary.
Despite the film's simplicity, I find myself on the cusp of recommending it. It lacks the campy appeal of more mindlessly entertaining Cannon fodder, though it contains the typical displays of raw, testosterone-fueled machismo often mischaracterized as homoeroticism (and with good reason — in particular, Braddock's attempts to wrench a knife from the hands of a potential assassin could easily be mistaken for a completely different act that would have warranted an X rating). Really, it's a sterling example of how much goodwill an effective opening can have on a film.
So many movies of this ilk open with a botched mission, forcing a redemptive arc for its central character. Missing in Action does, as well, but it takes the time after the explosions and the narrow escape to establish Braddock's emotional tumult — his guilt over leaving men behind to save himself, the horror of the memories of his imprisonment, and the mind-numbing tedium of returning to a "normal" life. The film handles this very effectively, and as such generates more than enough goodwill to carry it through to the end of an otherwise mediocre action flick. If not for those scenes, my rating would drop by at least a star. Consider that fair warning: If the opening doesn't resonate with you, chances are the rest of the film will serve as a frustratingly straightforward example of jingoistic action.
Editor's Note: You might be wondering why the first film in a trilogy has a "Based on characters created by…" credit. Turns out, Missing in Action and its prequel Missing in Action II: The Beginning were shot back-to-back, with the intention that the "prequel" would be the first movie and Missing in Action its sequel. Golan and Globus determined Missing in Action was the better film of the two and released it first. Hence, the "first" film is based on characters created by the writers of the "prequel."
D. B. Bates is a freelance script reader and writer.


text:
Reality star Emily Maynard has a new man in her life -- an adorable baby boy! -- and she's already eager to introduce him to the world. The former Bachelorette posted a first look at her bundle of joy to Instagram on Thursday.
The 29-year-old revealed that she was expecting her second child (her first with husband Tyler Johnson) back in January, but she waited until May to let fans know she was carrying a boy. And, now, here he is.
While she has yet to reveal a name, it looks as though the little guy is already a mama's boy as he appears snuggled up to Emily.
More from The Stir: A Look Inside the Bachelor Mansion -- Who Wouldn't Want To Live There?
And can we talk for a second about how gorgeous she looks? Her hair is amazing and those lashes are on point. I can assure you I did not look like this either time I gave birth, much to my dismay. My hair was matted down and I looked as though I had been through a war. Emily looks like she didn't even break a sweat! I'm more than a little jealous.
I wonder if she'll ask him if he'll accept this rose?
Image via @Parisa/Splash News


text:
Current Articles
Challenged by a slate of HSTA officer candidates backed by "Teachers Work to the Rules", HSTA union bosses are refusing to certify or even announce the election results. Instead, they are calling for a re-vote citing "irregularities."
Old Guard vs 'Work to the Rules' Slate
UPDATE May 21, 2015 -- Joan Lewis HSTA Conspiracy Theory
KHON: Rosenlee and two other candidates say the only reason board members nullified the results is because they didn't like who won. They say if another election is held, they will try to stop it by going to court....
Rosenlee said the election committee certified the results, but the board then turned around and nullified them, which is a conflict of interest because some of them are also running for office.
"What happened here is our election committee is unbiased and they certified the race, but many of the people that were deciding to approve the certification themselves were on the ballot or they heavily campaigned and they didn't like the results," Rosenlee said.
Joan Lewis, current vice president and Rosenlee's opponent for the president's seat, says the board followed the rules. "Only the board can certify the election and the board did not certify the election," she said.
As for board members wanting a different result as the reason for having another election, she says that's an insult to all the board members who are teachers themselves.
"Somehow, after years of service on behalf of teachers and on behalf of students, just decided to have no integrity and join effectively in a conspiracy against him and his team," Lewis said.
The union plans to hold another election on June 2. This time teachers will have to vote in person, but Rosenlee and other candidates who feel they already own their election plan to stop that.
Rosenlee also questions having teachers vote in person over a three-hour period on a school day.
"There are teachers that have graduation that day. There are teachers that are trying to get their grades done. It's the day right before students leave and so you're asking a tremendous thing of our teachers," he said.
read ... Battle
* * * * *
Wil Okabe: Disappointed by Public Announcements
Statement from Outgoing HSTA President Wil Okabe May 21, 2015
I am extremely disappointed that some candidates running for HSTA offices have chosen to violate HSTA's procedures and protocol with their recent public announcements. And instead, have chosen to disrespect the decision made by their fellow teachers on the HSTA board.
The Board of Directors of HSTA did not certify the results of the earlier vote because of serious discrepancies that were reported in the election and voting process. Numerous reports were provided to HSTA staff and board members that teachers did not receive their ballots either by mail or email. This included several board members who personally reported that they did not receive ballots.
In addition, potential violations in the way that candidates conducted their campaigns were also reported. And errors occurred in handling the ballots including the premature release of the email ballot count, and not giving candidates the opportunity to visually observe the vote count, which is their right according to our election rules.
A board meeting was held on May 16 to consider the certification of the vote. And after more than 12 hours of deliberation, the board felt that the election was seriously flawed. And, as is their right, the board chose to not certify the vote. And subsequently, by a 2/3-vote of 21 to 8 (out of 29), decided to hold a re-vote to help ensure that all teachers had a fair opportunity to participate in the election process.
A process for the re-vote was developed that would allow for a fair election. This includes operating voting locations across the state on June 2. In addition, any teacher that is unable to go to one of the polling locations can submit an absentee ballot. This process is similar to the system used by HSTA for contract ratification votes and has resulted in a high level of participation by teachers.
I know that this has been a difficult situation for the candidates, the HSTA board members, and all of our member teachers. And I understand the frustration felt by everyone involved. But I want to assure everyone that the HSTA board is acting in the best interests of their fellow teachers to ensure a fair election. And I encourage all of our members to participate in the upcoming re-vote on June 2.
Here are the details from the Teachers Work to the Rules Facebook Page May 16, 2015:
Clearly an Outrage
by Andy Jones Gilchrist Haas May 16, 2015
Hawaii teachers!
We all need to address what is clearly an outrage!
Osa Tui, who ran against Amy Perruso for Secretary-Treasurer, has openly admitted, against the Board of Directors' desires, that he lost the election to Amy, has said that he does not want his name on the second ballot, and has suggested that it is time to accept defeat and move on.
It is becoming increasingly clear that the Board refused to certify the election BECAUSE THEY DIDN'T LIKE THE WINNERS!
This is costing thousands of dollars and will likely give the public yet one more reason to hate our union and unions in general!
PLEASE go to the HSTA Facebook page and demand that the election results be published, together with the minutes of yesterday's meeting! #TellUsNow!
Public Email from Osa Tui:
Aloha friends, May 16, 2015
The HSTA elections that you helped me with were tabulated on Saturday, May 2. While the results were not announced because of the runoff election for VP, I did see that I received fewer votes than my opponent for the Secretary-Treasurer position. While I wanted to thank you at that point for your efforts, we were not allowed to reveal the results.
You will be hearing shortly that the HSTA Board of Directors voted tonight in a marathon session and by a necessary 2/3 majority to not certify the election for various reasons and that a revote will be conducted. I am not a Director on the Board so I do not know the specifics of that discussion.
On Sunday, May 3, the day after I saw the initial results, I informed the appropriate HSTA staff and officers that should the Board decide for any reason to not certify the election, I should then be considered as withdrawn from the race.
While I do not want to dismiss the efforts you went through on my behalf, I do hope that you will grant me a pass on my decision to not continue seeking the Secretary-Treasurer position. In the two weeks that have transpired since the initial results came in, I have come to peace with the results and have started thinking forward to other things. Please do not send condolences - I will still continue in my position on the Negotiations Committee working for you and for the rest of our members.
I wish Amy Perruso the best of luck in guiding our union as HSTA's next Secretary-Treasurer.
Have a speedy next few weeks as the school year comes to a close and a wonderful and restful summer!
Petition: Return integrity to HSTA
In this age of declining union strength, when the government minions of corporate America seek to upend the collective bargaining rights that built America's middle class, it is imperative that unions act with integrity and solidarity. Without these two ideals continuously exposed to the light of public scrutiny, unions are destined to impel the suspicion of those who do not enjoy similar rights. It is even more critical that union leadership maintain the faith and support of their membership to ensure the union is not splintered from within, accelerating the union' demise.
Thus, the actions of many of the Hawaii State Teachers Association's Board of Directors in
1) refusing to certify a democratic election process, in
2) refusing to publicize the original election results, in
3) refusing to delineate the specific "irregularities" concerning them, in
4) refusing to specify which Directors voted to reject the election and his/her personal stake in said election, and in
5) refusing to verify that these "irregularities" were so grievous as to cast the election results in doubt, have displayed an egregious breech of ethics and trust.
1) refusing to certify a democratic election process, in
2) refusing to publicize the original election results, in
3) refusing to delineate the specific "irregularities" concerning them, in
4) refusing to specify which Directors voted to reject the election and his/her personal stake in said election, and in
5) refusing to verify that these "irregularities" were so grievous as to cast the election results in doubt, have displayed an egregious breech of ethics and trust.
Therefore, we the signers of this petition, concerned teachers and parents and students, are demanding that you address the concerns listed above immediately. Publicize the original elections results, the number of specific complaints from teachers who were not allowed to vote due to irregularities, determine whether or not that number constitutes a percentage high enough to invalidate the original election, certify the original election if they do not, or alert the membership within the next 5 school days of the election process that will be used to hold a new (third) election – including guarantees that both parties will be present at each polling site to ensure there are no further "irregularities" as we build a union strong enough, united to withstand the onslaught we face daily.
LINK: Sign Petition
TEXT "follow HawaiiFreePress" to 40404
Register to Vote
808 Silent Majority
808 State Update AM940
ABCDEFG Blog
ACA Signups Hawaii
Alliance Defending Freedom
Aloha Life Advocates
Aloha Pregnancy Care Center
American Council of Trustees and Alumni
American Mothers of Hawaii
Antonio Gramsci Reading List
A Place for Women in Waipio
Astronomy Hawaii
Audit The Rail
Ballotpedia Hawaii
Better Hawaii
Blaisdell Memorial Project
Broken Trust
Build More Hawaiian Homes Working Group
CAFR Hawaii
Castaway Conservative
Children's Alliance Hawaii
Children's Rights Institute
Christian Homeschoolers of Hawaii
Citizens for Recall
Cliff Slater's Second Opinion
Coffee Break
CSIS Pacific Forum
DAR Hawaii
DVids Hawaii
E Hana Kakou Kelii Akina
E Māua Ola i Moku o Keawe
Farmers For Choice Hawaii
Fix Oahu!
Follow the Money Hawaii
Frank in Hawaii
Front Page Magazine
Frontline: The Fixers
Genetic Literacy Project
Get Off Your Butts!
God, Freedom, America
Grassroot Institute
Hawaii Aganst Assisted Suicide
Hawaii Aquarium Fish Report
Hawaii Aviation Preservation Society
Hawaii Catholic TV
Hawaii Christian Coalition
Hawaii Cigar Association
Hawaii Coalition Against Legalized Gambling
Hawaii ConCon Info
Hawaii Credit Union Watch
Hawaii Crime Victims' Rights
Hawaii Crop Improvement Association
Hawaii Debt Clock
Hawaii Defending Marriage
Hawaii Defense Foundation
Hawaii Family Advocates
Hawaii Family Forum
Hawaii Farmers and Ranchers United
Hawaii Farmer's Daughter
Hawaii Federalist Society
Hawaii Federation of Republican Women
Hawaii Firearm Community
Hawaii Fishermen's Alliance
Hawaii Future Project
Hawaii Gathering of Eagles
Hawaii History Blog
Hawaii Homeschool Association
Hawaii Jihadi Trial
Hawaii March for Life
Hawaii Meth Project
Hawaii's Partnership for Appropriate & Compassionate Care
Hawaii Public Charter School Network
Hawaii Rifle Association
Hawaii Right to Life -- Big Island
Hawaii Right to Life -- Oahu
Hawaii Shield Law Coalition
Hawaii Shippers Council
Hawaii Smokers Alliance
Hawaii State Data Lab
Hawaii Together
Heritage Foundation
HI Coalition Against Legalized Gambling
Hiram Fong Papers
Homeschool Legal Defense Hawaii
Honolulu Homeless Crisis
Honolulu Navy League
Honolulu Traffic
Horns of Jericho Blog
House Minority Blog
House Republican Caucus YouTube
Hump Day Report
I Vote Hawaii
If Hawaii News
Imua TMT
Inouye-Kwock, NYT 1992
Inside the Nature Conservancy
Inverse Condemnation
Investigative Project on Terrorism
Iowa Meets Maui
Jackson v Abercrombie
Jihad Watch
July 4 in Hawaii
Kahle v New Hope
Kakaako Cares
Kau TEA Party
Kauai Co GOP
Keep Hawaii's Heroes
Land and Power in Hawaii
Legislative Committee Analysis Tool
Lessons in Firearm Education
Lingle Years
Malulani Foundation
Managed Care Matters -- Hawaii
Malama Pregnancy Center of Maui
Mauna Kea Recreational Users Group
Middle East Forum--The Legal Project
Mililani Conservatives for Change
Military Home Educators' Network Oahu
Missile Defense Advocacy
MIS Veterans Hawaii
Muslim Brotherhood in America
NAMI Hawaii
National Christian Foundation Hawaii
National Parents Org Hawaii
National Wind Watch
New Hawaiian
New Zeal
NFIB Hawaii News
No GMO Means No Aloha
Northwest Economic Policy Seminar
Not Dead Yet, Hawaii
Now What I Really Think
NRA-ILA Hawaii
Oahu Alternative Transport
ObamaCare Abortion Hawaii
OHA Lies
Opt Out Today
Pacific Aviation Museum
Patients Rights Council Hawaii
PEACE Hawaii
People vs Machine
Pritchett Cartoons
Pro-GMO Hawaii
Rental by Owner Awareness Assn
Republican Party -- Hawaii State
Research Institute for Hawaii USA
Rick Hamada Show
RJ Rummel
Robotics Organizing Committee
Save Dillingham Airfield
School Choice in Hawaii
SIFE Remington
SIFE W. Oahu
Sink the Jones Act
Smart About Marijuana--Hawaii
St Marianne Cope
State Budget Solutions Hawaii
State Policy Network
Statehood for Guam
Tax Foundation of Hawaii
The Harriet Tubman Agenda
The Long War Journal
The Real Hanabusa
Time Out Honolulu
Trustee Akina KWO Columns
Truth About Trade & Technology - Hawaii
UCC Truths
Union Members Know Your Rights
US Tax Foundation Hawaii Info
Valor in the Pacific
VAREP Honolulu
West Maui Taxpayers Association
What Natalie Thinks
Whole Life Hawaii


text:
Last Friday we brought a new barbecue. Why did we buy a new barbecue when snow was on the ground? You may ask.
Well, last year when gale force winds decided to hit us, my current barbecue took a fly around the garden. As you can imagine, since barbecues are not supposed to fly, it didnt end very well.
So we were walking around Tesco last week and came across a lovely big barbecue on offer. On impulse we brought it.
All weekend I kept saying I would assemble it. Then I put it off in favour of editing.
So I woke this morning to glorious warm sunshine. It seems spring has finally arrived and it's brought summer along for the day.
When I finish work I'll be dashing home to set up my shiny new barbecue. Will the sun last long enough to actually use it?
Probably not, but I live in hope.


text:
What To Expect From the 2019 Volkswagen Arteon
Scheduled to arrive at Rudolph Volkswagen of El Paso in the near future, the stunning 2019 Volkswagen Arteon has been getting a lot of attention recently. Volkswagen's all-new flagship sedan is hands-down one of the hottest cars of the year. It's sleek exterior styling, luxurious cabin, and a long list of high-tech features promise to leave you impressed. Of course, the new Arteon is also engineered to be undeniably fun to drive. A class-leading, 72,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty helps make this premium luxury sedan a standout value. Let's find out why so many people are talking about the 2019 VW Arteon.
Credit: Volkswagen
Soothing Performance
Under the hood of the new 2019 model sits a 2.0-liter, turbocharged TSI four-cylinder engine. It's tuned to develop a healthy 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, an eight-speed automatic transmission ensures the available power is put to good use. On the road, the 2019 Volkswagen Arteon definitely packs enough performance to put a grin on your face. El Paso, TX drivers will certainly appreciate the sedan's responsive acceleration whether commuting or heading on an adventure over Trans Mountain. The good news is that the sedan's entertaining performance doesn't come at the expense of efficiency. A standard automatic stop/start system helps minimize fuel consumption in the city.
Credit: Volkswagen
Fun Driving Dynamics
While front-wheel drive comes standard, VW's dynamic 4Motion AWD system is available on every trim. The advanced AWD system gives you the best possible grip in slippery road conditions (anyone familiar with El Paso rain knows how the roads can get). Drivers can also take advantage of the Arteon's athletic handling. A standard DCC adaptive damping system gives the Arteon the reflexes of a genuine sports sedan. You can attack curves with an extra degree of confidence. This sophisticated suspension automatically adjusts to changes in the pavement, which promotes an especially smooth ride. Choose from Normal, Sport, or Comfort driving modes.
Credit: Volkswagen
One-of-a-Kind Styling
Volkswagen built the new Arteon to replace the previous VW CC luxury sedan. When showcased at the renowned Chicago Auto Show, the 2019 VW Arteon amazed spectators with its striking exterior design. It has a sleek profile that's guaranteed to turn heads. It looks eye-catching from every angle. As soon as you see the new Arteon in person, its frameless side windows and sloping rear roofline will immediately draw your attention. However, there are several other distinctive styling cues that set it apart from the competition. Stunning LED headlights come standard. The car's rear fascia is just as stunning. Dual trapezoidal exhaust tips accentuate the Arteon's sporty character. If you desire more swagger, check out the aggressive-looking R-Line model. Available 20-inch alloy wheels and a special R-Line front bumper enable it to make a powerful statement. Expect Rudolph Volkswagen of El Paso to offer several breathtaking paint colors.
Credit: Volkswagen
Spacious, Modern Interior
While lounging in the 2019 Volkswagen Arteon, your family will experience a great deal of luxury. A spacious cabin enables the sedan to comfortably accommodate five passengers and everyone will have plenty of legroom to stretch out. The available massaging driver's seat will certainly help you to unwind on long road trips. Nappa leather seating surfaces are also found inside the top-of-line SEL Premium trim. When equipped with an ambient lighting system, the Arteon offers an even greater sense of relaxation. Elegant touches, such as an analog clock, further highlight the interior's quality appearance.
Credit: Volkswagen
High-Tech Components
All versions of the 2019 VW Arteon come loaded with exciting technologies. Featuring Volkswagen Car-Net App-Connect technology, the standard touch-screen infotainment system seamlessly links to your smartphone to minimize distracted driving. Some of the other standard components include push-button start, a three-zone climate control system, and a convenient backup camera. The higher trim levels pack even more goodies. VW's high-resolution Digital Cockpit is sure to enhance your driving experience. From real-time navigation directions to safety alerts, this fully digital gauge cluster gives you quick access to a lot of data. It can also be customized in a variety of different ways. Music fans will be excited by the Dynaudio premium sound system. A built-in amplifier enables you to really crank up the volume and bring the party wherever you go in El Paso and beyond.
Credit: Volkswagen
Built to Offer Superior Passenger Safety
The new Arteon is engineered to be one of the safest 2019 models for sale in El Paso. Your family and friends will be rewarded with the best possible impact protection. Volkswagen also offers a number of driver-assisting safety innovations. If you fail to notice another vehicle or pedestrian on the road, Front Assist can prevent disaster by automatically bringing the sedan to a stop. On the other hand, Lane Assist helps prevent you from accidentally crossing over into the next lane. Some of the other safety features available on the 2019 VW Arteon include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, blind-spot monitoring, and a class-exclusive Automatic Post-Collision Braking System.


text:
TFB mulcher medium duty
Low body height (only 50cm) makes the TFB mulcher ideal for general purpose shrub and pruning waste mulching in low foliage stem crops, orchards, olive groves and vineyards. It is ideal for mulching grass, maize, hay, pruning waste (in olive groves, orchards, etc.), brushwood and more besides.
It boasts a robust steel frame and an electronically balanced rotor mounted on fully enclosed with helical configuration, self-aligning bearings. The belt transmission is driven by an oil bath bevel gearbox with freewheel. The rotor can be fitted only with hammers.
STANDARD EQUIPMENT: Hammers; counter-blades; height adjustable mounting slides; EU standard safety devices; levelling roller with rapid height adjustment; adjustable belt tensioner; mechanical lateral movement; gearbox with bi-directional freewheel; double PTO guard; inspection cover.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS: PTO shaft; hydraulic movement system; self-levelling twig rakes; rear wheel kit; inter-row head; wear plate.