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And the winner is me!
I am so excited
I've just won a trip to Canada through GYB 2015.
Thank you so much to everyone who stopped by
to say hello from Grow Your Blog 2015.
I had a really good time visiting new blogs
and with over 300 bloggers participating
I haven't finished yet!
There are some amazing blogs out there
I am happy to have connected with new bloggers
and delighted to see some new followers to mine.
A huge thank you to Vicki at 2bagsfull
for organising another successful event.
I am pleased to announce the winner of my
GYB 2015 giveaway is
drum roll please....
Michele Timms
Which is perfect as Michele says:
We have a "thing" about birds...
If you saw our house you would know what I mean!
Many birds: glass, wood, painted, etc!!
So Michele
there will be a few more little Wren things
heading your way to add to your collection.
I would love to say I'll come and deliver myself
as I have never been to Canada
but I think my DH would do his nut at that suggestion...
Although it would be fun trying...
I ran this little giveaway on my Blog
(the one he never reads...)
and I met this lovely Lady called Michele
(so what, we've never met!)
and I thought when you go to the States on business in May
I could come with you,
and fly to Canada
(Michele please tell me it is not that far...
Well, it's nearer than from Australia
so it still seems like a good idea to me...)
and give her the giveaway that she won
What do you think?
You know those sort of conversations that if you time it right,
World Cup Cricket is on in Melbourne at the moment for instance.
if I got him in the middle of someone bowling,
a Howzat moment...
or maybe even,
after dinner when the telly is on, and they're all trying to watch
that new series from America
"How to get away with murder ..."
When everyone turns to look at you with a loud
Even though you've just said
'the dog's just puked in the study.'
So get my timing right
when no-one is listening to a word that I say anyway...
come to think of it,
I'm guessing I really don't need to plan this so precisely,
this has got to be most of my life...
I might just get a
"sounds good"
In which case Dear Michele
if you don't mind waiting a few weeks
I'm coming to yours.
Which makes us both winners!
Now please don't tidy up for me Michele
I'll feel more at home without the floors mopped.
And no need to bake me a special cake
I'm more of a Betty Crocker sort of a girl...
And as you know, no need to iron your clothes that day
because I won't have...
Michele, please don't cry at my generosity
you haven't got your 10 Designer Wren Tissues yet!
Save those tears of joy till when I'm with you.
You can do the washing up,
I'll do the drying,
I'm bringing the Australian Wrens tea towel!
Oh the fun we'll have!
Thank you so much Michele
for making me the winner
Canada here I come!
Now I need everyone out there in the Blogosphere
to please join me and wish me luck with this idea.
And just in case I get a
"No way"
Michele can you kindly e-mail me your address?!!!!!


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The origin of the worship of Siva as Linga is to be found in Arunachala Mahatmyam. The legend is that there was a dispute between Brahma, the creator of the Universe, and Vishnu, the sustainer of the Universe regarding the superiority of the one over the other.
Siva decided to restore order to the Universe by putting an end to their dispute by appearing as an infinite column of Light. He instructed that whosoever found the top or bottom of the pillar of Light was the greater. Taking up His challenge Brahma and Vishnu stopped fighting and accordingly Brahma took the form of a swan and flew up to find the top of the pillar, whereas Vishnu dug down the earth as a boar to the find the bottom of the column of Light.
After aeons of futile search, both returned to Shiva accepted defeat and prayed to Him to take a more benevolent and accessible Form so that they could worship him. Siva accordingly took the form of a Hill, known as Arunachala. Brahman and Vishnu worshipped the Hill Linga thus making Arunachala the first and foremost of Lingas.
A granite representation of the Pillar of Light with Sivas form within and Brahma flying up as a swan and Vishnu digging down as a boar can be seen on the wall just behind the sanctum in every temple of Siva, in commemoration of this event. This representation is known as the Lingodbhava.

subset: commoncrawl


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14 May 2004 (V.S. 2060, Vaishakh vad 4) Friday, London, New York
At 2.30 pm (GMT) Swamishri departed from London's Heathrow airport towards New York. At 4.10 pm (American Standard Time) Swamishri's plane landed at JFK airport in New York. Swamishri was given a red carpet welcome at Terminal 4. For the first time ever, a welcome assembly was arranged for Swamishri in Terminal 4. Yagnavallabh Swami, Dr. K.C. Patel and Senator Balboni garlanded Swamishri. Several other dignitaries and officials also welcomed Swamishri and received his blessings. Thereafter Swamishri was given a police escort by the FBI to the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Flushing.
15 May 2004 (V.S. 2060, Vaishakh vad 12) Saturday, New York
A grand welcome assembly was arranged at Hofstra University Arena in the late afternoon. Swamishri arrived at the arena at 5.55 pm. Over 150 dignitaries welcomed Swamishri in a special assembly. Thereafter several dignitaries addressed the assembly.
Thomas Souzzi, Executive, Nassau County (NY), said, "So I want His Divine Holiness to know that the people who are here before you are people who have contributed greatly to our society and continue to spread the culture that they have learned in their native country to their children, and in doing so make this country a greater country. I had a chance to read a few things about His Divine Holiness before I got here today, and one of the great lessons that I saw is because of his generosity and because of his giving and because of his humility, that he empties himself until the point where he is nothing. But it is only by recognizing that we are nothing that we can be everything and be one with each other. I hereby present this citation to His Divine Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj in fitting recognition and heartfelt appreciation of his services towards harmonious relations and the advancement of international peace."
Vijay Nambiar, Indian Ambassador to the United Nations, opined, "The 'sarva dharma sambhav' which we talk about in India is best represented in the Swaminarayan community itself. And it is therefore for me a great privilege to be able to be present here along with all of you to have the darshan of Pramukh Swamiji."
New York State Senator, Michael Balboni, praised Swamishri's precedental step of retaining peace during the terrorist attack on Akshardham. He said, "I am very involved with the issue of terrorism. That is the work that I do as chairman of Homeland Security for the state, and I'm very involved with the United States government. And it's one thing that I've learned to talk about peace and acceptance. It is another to do the work of God. And when the temple was attacked, Swami took the strong position – the hard position – of bringing peace, not violence; of stopping the cycle. That is the greatest gift and the greatest lesson that anyone can give this world. And it's truly an honor and grace to be in his presence."
Congressman Gregory Meeks shared his feelings with the assembly, "It is indeed an honor and a privilege to be here today to truly meet a man of peace. Indeed, with the Swami we know with his message and His Holiness, in this time of trouble and turmoil, it is that message that will help us all share this great globe we're currently on."
Congressman Anthony D. Weiner narrated his experiences and thoughts of his visit to the under-construction Akshardham monument in New Delhi, "I am honored and I am privileged to meet you. I can feel the holiness in you, and, indeed, it is a true blessing to be with you this early evening.
"I am a member of Congress, and I represent perhaps one of the largest South Asian communities anywhere outside of India. But it wasn't until January of this year that I had ever visited India. And while there were some extraordinary moments on the trip, when we visited Akshardham, to watch the construction going on, it was cold. I am not talking it was cold for India; it was cold for anywhere. It was freezing cold. But everywhere our delegation looked, there were people with smiles on their faces, beaming with pride.
"It is very easy in today's world to open up a newspaper, to turn on a television or the radio and become a little bit pessimistic about our future. We seem to focus so much on the conflicts between peoples; so much on the things that make us different from one another. No one knows that more than in New York where we focus not only on what city we're from but we even focus on what neighborhood we're from. But the Swami's teachings for all of us being here today, remind us of one central fact. We all basically have the same aspirations. We want to raise our children in a better world. We want to leave a city, a community, a country, a generation just a little bit better than the one that we found. Perhaps no person is more dedicated to that than the man we have honored today. I am a Jewish boy from Brooklyn, and I am here to pay tribute to one of the finest and most godly and most wholesome people I have ever had my honor to meet."
Thomas Dinapoli, New York State Assemblyman, remarked, "I am so grateful for the beautiful blessings just bestowed upon me by this special man. We live in difficult times as we all know, and we live in times where people say there aren't heroes for us to look up to. In Swamiji we have a hero for us all to look up to. His spirituality, his goodness, his generosity, the ways in which he uplifts in a religious and a spiritual sense is significant, but also significant are the ways in which his efforts help the medical and health needs of those who are in desperate condition."
The BAPS Care website, which highlights the Sanstha's social activities, was inaugurated by Swamishri. Then a traditional welcome dance was performed by youths of the Boston center in honor of Swamishri.
Finally, Swamishri blessed the assembly by elaborating upon the concept of destruction and true progress in our world due to materialism and spirituality respectively.
16 May 2004 (V.S. 2060, Vaishakh vad 13) Sunday, New York
o Swamishri performed the murti-pratishtha rituals of new murtis of Akshar Purushottam Maharaj, Radha Krishna Dev, Sita-Ram, Shankar-Parvati, Hanumanji, Ganapati and Guru Parampara at the BAPS Swaminarayan hari mandir in New York. Swamishri blessed 3000 devotees in the assembly.
o The evening assembly was held at the Hofstra University Arena. During the assembly Thomas Gullata addressed the assembly, "Jai Swaminarayan, it is an honor for me to be able to be here in the presence of Swamiji and in the presence of all of you. Just being in this room in your presence and in the presence of a spiritual leader is an uplifting spiritual feeling. It's impossible for anyone to be here without feeling the strength of spiritualism within.
"But you know and I know it's not the money that is important. It's the spiritual values and spiritual strength and the family values that are important. I ask you to see the media reports, the television news and whenever there is a crime report you don't see a young woman or a man of Indian descent that has violated the law, because of the understanding of spiritual values and family values and passing that along to the next generation. That is what will make the society grow and be what we hope in the future. Look around and understand that we live in the world of modern technology and modern medicine that cure the illness. But understanding in modern technology and medicine is the importance of spiritual values. Because when you grow older then you realise that human compassion, love and spiritual strength can create miracles that modern technology and modern medicines cannot. You all here are miracle workers. If you can reach out to others and neighbours and give them the compassion, love and spiritual wisdom you have, you too can create miracles in the lives of others."
In his blessings Swamishri explained about the pricelessness of the human birth and its ultimate objective of attaining moksha.
21 May 2004 (V.S. 2060, Jeth sud 2) Friday, New York
At 4.30 pm the Guru Bhakti Din celebration commenced at the Queens College Hall. Queens County Councilman John Liv, State Assemblyman Barry Grodenchik welcomed Swamishri.
Thereafter youths narrated incidents about how Swamishri has touched them in their lives. A traditional dance was performed by youths. After the garlanding ceremony Swamishri explained in his blessings about how worldly life binds, and to free oneself from bondage one must take the refuge of a God-realised Sadhu.
22 May 2004 (V.S. 2060, Jeth sud 3) Saturday, New York, Edison
The evening welcome assembly was held at the Raritan Expo Center in Edison. Ten thousand devotees had assembled for the grand assembly. A colorful welcome dance was performed by youths. After the garlanding ceremony the Mayor of Edison, George Spodaro, delivered his welcome speech. Finally Swamishri blessed the assembly.
23 May 2004 (V.S. 2060, Jeth sud 4) Sunday, Edison Medico–Spiritual Conference
o Swamishri blessed 750 doctors during a Medico-Spiritual Conference at the mandir hall.
o The evening assembly was celebrated as Pramukh Vani Din at the Raritan Expo Center.
o At 11.50 am Swamishri visited the BAPS hari mandir in Cherry Hill, N.J. After performing pujan and arti of the murtis Swamishri blessed the assembly of devotees.
26 May 2004 (VS. 2060, Jeth sud 7) Wednesday, Edison
The Kishore-Kishori Day program themed on 'What Cannot Be Done' was performed with a traditional dance, dramas and a laser show.
Finally Swamishri blessed the assembly explaining the need for effort and faith in God.
28 May 2004 (VS. 2060, Jeth sud 7) Friday, Edison
o Swamishri performed the murti-pratishtha rituals of murtis for a BAPS hari mandir in Bedford, Pennsylvania at the Edison Mandir.
o The evening assembly was dedicated as Children's Day program which included traditional dances based on the theme, "Swami Bapa, We Love You Forever."
Swamishri underscored the importance of instilling values and faith in children in his blessings.
Then Congressman Frank Pallone addressed the assembly, "It reminds me how important education is and how important it is to serve as an example for your children. Sanskrit and Hindu scriptures are so important that we should all live by…"
30 May 2004 (VS. 2060, Jeth sud 11) Sunday, Edison
In the evening assembly at the Raritan Expo Hall Swamishri was presented a Lifetime Achievement Award by Dr Shambhu Banik on behalf of President Bush.
* 1 June Yuva Din assembly
* 2 June Satsang assembly
* 3 June Satsang assembly
* 4 June 2004 (V.S. 2060, Jeth vad 1) Friday, Edison (NJ)
Parents' Day
o Senator of Cherry Hill, Jhon Adler, received Swamishri's blessings.
o The Mayor of Woodbridge, Frank Pelzman, received Swamishri's blessings. During his address on the previous day he said, "I am so moved by the sincerity, devotion and the love that is in this room. I only hope that the job that I do as Mayor has his (Swamishri's) blessings and has your (audiences') prayers to help and guide me over the next 5 years of my term. So, I ask you, please remember me in your prayers that I do what is right for most of the people in our town."
5 June 2004 (V.S. 2060, Jeth vad 3) Saturday, Edison (NJ)
Sanskruti - cultural program
A grand cultural program on India's glorious heritage 'Sanskruti' was performed by 250 BAPS children and youths at the Continental Airlines Arena. A supporting staff of 750 youths managed the coordination and stage arrangements. The audience of 20,000 people savored the spectacular cultural presentation of drama, dance, laser and fireworks.
The 3-hour program was also punctuated with speeches by Viveksagar Swami, Dr Swami and several dignitaries.
Governor of New Jersey, James McGrevy, said, "Namaste. Jai Swaminarayan. Today it is a great honor Swamiji, to be here with you and the Congressmen. It is a great honor to be here in presence of a living spiritual master. To understand the strength of BAPS and to be the beneficiary of his blessings, I first had audience with Swamiji during my trip of Gujarat before becoming the Governor. And as Governor I'm honored at the strength of the Swaminarayan faith here in the State of New Jersey and our region. Swamiji, in New Jersey we have grown to over 5000 families ignited by devotion, by bhakti, by dharma and also detachment. These are the strengths of the Swaminarayan faith of practical spiritualism, eternal purity and adherence to universal truths. And we also understand the importance of seva, performing service for fellow human beings. I as Governor am greatly honored by the contribution that the Indo-American is making to the society. They contribute to science, technology, medicine and also to the great Swaminarayan faith here in USA."
Congressman Stanley Wayer of Washington DC opined, "We have gathered here at a time when many people teach to hate each other, to teach violence, to teach divisions. And as a result of those teachings our world is more divided and violence and terror is visited in India, in United States, in Iraq and in other places in the world. As Governor McGrevy said, it is an honor, privilege and experience to be remembered all through out my life, to be here in the presence of His Divine Holiness. This holy man teaches love and character. He teaches and uplifts, as all of us must do by whatever faith we call. I'm honored to be here with other Congressman. I am honored to see the Akshardham in Delhi that is being built. It will uplift everybody. God blesses America through the visitation of holy men like Pramukh Swami Maharaj."
Co-founder of India Caucus Frank Pallone said, "It is indeed an honor to be here this evening. I was proud to visit the Akshardham in Gandhinagar. Remembered the terrorist attack and remember Swamiji's appeal of non-violence then. That is one of the most important messages of Swamiji and BAPS that they preach non-violence which is so crucial to today's society. I also want to pay tribute to many social activities of Swamiji and BAPS. We still remember the work of BAPS when there was earthquake in Gujarat. Also I want to commend the educational commitment of BAPS. I was there last week when they had the youth day and they educate youths with Sanskrit and moral values. This is one of the most important contribution to society - to instill these values in the young generation."
In conclusion, Swamishri blessed the assembly, "You have come here with the culture and values of our country. You may earn and acquire things you require, but, you should also remain resolute in our culture and religion. Old is gold and our Sanatan Dharma has been given to us by God. And God comes again and again to reestablish dharma on earth, God protects our culture and values… Today, because of materialism our faith in God has declined and that is why we are unhappy and without peace…"
6 June 2004 (V.S. 2060, Jeth vad 4) Sunday, Edison (NJ); Akshardham Bhumi-Pujan
Akshardham bhumi-pujan
At 6.30 am the Expo Hall was packed with devotees for the bhumi-pujan rituals of Akshardham. At 10.40 am the rituals concluded in the presence of Swamishri. Thereafter the bhumi-pujan assembly commenced with a traditional dance by youths. This was followed by speeches from Viveksagar Swami, Dr. K.C. Patel and Dr Swami. The vote of thanks was given by Yagnavallabh Swami. Then the message of the Mayor of Washington DC was read and a plaque of honor was presented to Swamishri. Finally Swamishri blessed the assembly.


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Both tennis and table tennis have a long history and share some similarities, but naturally the details of them are quite different. Let me explain three different points between tennis and table tennis. The bases for comparison are racket, court and scores.
To begin with, both sports use a racket when we play tennis or table tennis. However, the racket for tennis is a little bigger than its counterpart for table tennis.
The sizes of the courts are also distinctive; tennis has a much bigger court than its counterpart. Moreover, we play tennis only outdoors such as on lawn or clay courts, while we play table tennis only indoors, on a ping-pong table.
We should consider the way how to count scores also. Regardless of such of keen differences, however, the most important aspect is that both sports has a number of fans and players all over the world.


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Ray Lewis cried after watching 'SNL' skit about him crying
Ray Lewis is an emotional man.
He cries before games. He cries after games. He cries during interviews. He even cries while watching videos that make fun of him crying.
PHOTO: Ray Lewis really loves America
MORE: 'Saturday Night Live' lampoons Lewis
Lewis was spoofed in a recent edition of Saturday Night Live's Weekend Update. Dressed in a Ravens jersey, Kenan Thompson made fun of the linebacker's face paint, dance moves and frequent tears. It was pretty great.
Even Ray Lewis enjoyed the skit. "I laughed so hard," said Lewis during a Super Bowl media session. "I was in tears last night laughing about it."
That's right. Ray Lewis was in tears after watching a Saturday Night Live skit about Ray Lewis crying.
"It's good to be able to joke about certain things," Lewis added. "What I do is very serious but for them to put it in a skit and for him to play it the way he did, it's awesome."


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Massive Numbers Flock to Derby City Billiards Event
Massive Numbers Flock to Derby City Billiards Event
Derby City Classic / Elizabeth, IN
The Derby City Classic began January 21 with a total of 386 players in the first division of the three-ring extravaganza, the 9-ball banks event. The 13th annual tournament is hosted by the Horseshoe Casino and Hotel in Elizabeth, IN, and is sponsored by Diamond Billiard Products, Inc., and Iwan Simonis.
Despite the inclement weather, the numbers are up from last year by over 50 players to vie for the $10,000-added prize purse. Defending banks champion and all-around winner John Brumback won his first match over Danny Hiner in a speedy 12 minutes, while former banks champ Stevie Moore bested Stephen Aylesworth in 14 minutes.
The familiar faces in banks are going strong with first-round wins. Shannon "The Cannon" Daulton bested David Maddux, Truman Hogue won over Joey Koontz, Cliff Joyner defeated David Hunt, Larry Price won his match with Eugene Tatum, and Louis D'Marco won over Mark Thwaites. Johnathan Pinegar upset former banks champion Jason Miller, and Brandon Shuff defeated former one-pocket division winner John "Mr. 400" Schmidt. Last year's one-pocket winner, Scott "The Freezer" Frost, defeated Larry Howard in the first round.
An all-Filipino match-up between Francisco Bustamante and Warren Kiamco saw the most recent Hall of Fame inductee Bustamante advancing. Lee Van Corteza also made it through the first round undefeated with a victory over Sam Monday, and Ronato Alcano won his match over Evan Lundia. Efren Reyes, a frequent winner at the Derby City Classic, is not in attendance.
Jeanette Lee looks the strongest to contend for the female all-around title, winning over Michael Howard in the first round. First place in the female all-around will net $1,500 with a minimum of eight women participating.
Friday evening saw a six-person, short-rank banks ring game with John Brumback winning the winner-takes-all $9,000 prize and Shannon Daulton as runner-up. Rounding out the field were Jeremy Jones, Shannon Murphy, Mike Hughes, and Louis D'Marco.
Visit InsidePOOL for the latest news in the sport of billiards and pool.


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The Celebration Township, book 4
by Stacy Eaton
by Stacy Eaton
Dabby Finnegan got roped into being auctioned off for the annual Valentine's Party, and nothing could have prepared him to face the vibrant and determined Paige Brogan. From the moment she jumps into his arms to collect her prize, his life will change.
Paige Brogan has had a crush on Dabby for a long time, and this auction is exactly what she's been waiting for to finally catch his eye. When Paige wins a date with Dabby, the only thing she wants to do is spend the day with him working at his tavern.
As Paige and Dabby get to know one another, Dabby has a hard time understanding why this incredible woman would be interested in him. It's when the rainbows are overhead, and green beer is flowing that Dabby finally realizes what he has and vows to never lose it.
Welcome to the fourth book in the Celebration Township Series, Rainbows to Riches. This series consists of thirteen novel and novellas that take place over the course of a year, beginning with Christmas. During that year, twelve more stories will unfold in the Township of Celebration, Pennsylvania, and each release will coincide with an upcoming holiday.
The announcer started the bidding at one hundred, and Shirley raised her hand. She better bid on me, she's the one that talked me into being here. I knew that if she won, she wouldn't even want a date, she'd only want a free dinner at the tavern for her and Fred Maxim. Of course, she'd insist that I eat with them, and I liked that idea. No fuss.
Another woman raised her hand and bid two hundred, and I squinted into the audience to see who it was. She was seated in the shadows on the other side of the bright lights, and I couldn't make her out. Shirley bid three hundred and I figured that would be the end of it, but then the woman I couldn't see stood and shouted loudly, "I'll take him for a thousand."
The room went dead silent, and I was honestly waiting for her to say, Oh, I'm sorry, I take back my bid, but the announcer called out that I was sold for one thousand dollars. I was speechless and stared into the crowd to see the crazy woman jumping up and down and screaming her excitement at having won.
Did the woman think she was bidding on someone else? She did know I was the prize, didn't she? I started to descend the stairs and by the time I reached the bottom, this whirlwind of bright red hair threw itself at me and wrapped strong arms around my neck.
What the hell? Who was this woman? I didn't know any ladies with hair this bright. I turned to ask for help from the guys on the stage and found them all laughing.
The woman finally unwrapped herself from me and landed on her feet in front of me. She was a pipsqueak of a woman, maybe five foot, if that.
"You have no idea how excited I am! I can't believe I won a date with you!" She tugged me back towards her table while some of the townspeople laughed and whispered amongst themselves. "I have wanted to meet you for so long, and I can't believe I won you!" She bounced a bit more as she reached her seat, and I gaped at her. "I can't wait to go out with you. It's going to be so much fun."
"Wait," I held up my hands to stop her prattling long enough for me to ask her a question: "Who are you?"
Stacy Eaton is a USA Today Best Selling author and began her writing career in October of 2010. Stacy took an early retirement from law enforcement after over fifteen years of service in 2016, with her last three years in investigations and crime scene investigation to write full time. Stacy resides in southeastern Pennsylvania with her husband, who works in law enforcement, and her teen daughter who is working toward her second degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do and on the choral and cheerleading squads at school. She also has a son who is currently serving in the United States Navy. Stacy is very involved in Domestic Violence Awareness and served on the Board of Directors for her local Domestic Violence Center for three years.


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Our team
Always available
Europair relies on a highly-qualified, multilingual international team comprising 12 professionals who are all truly dedicated to customer service.
Gerardo Manzano (CEO)
Gerardo Manzano has been a shareholder and CEO of Europair for more than 20 years. An accomplished executive in the field of international aviation, Manzano has extensive management and strategic planning experience in the air charter business, private aviation and consultancy. Always searching for new business strategies, he is the heart and soul of Europair. On the rare occasions that he manages to disconnect from aviation, he can be found in his kitchen indulging his passion for cooking, or contemplating new challenges whilst travelling the world.
Specialist in: Tour operation programmes
Dolores Montilla (Commercial Manager)
Dolores has been working at Europair since the beginnings of the organisation. She has nearly two decades' experience in national and international companies in the aviation sector. As Commercial Manager, her mission is to define Europair's commercial strategy and ensure that it is correctly implemented, as well back the company as it opens new lines of business. A woman of many talents, energetic and decisive, her experience and expertise have made her a key player on Europair's team.
Specialist in: VIP and executive flights
Miguel Comas (Operations Manager)
His career in tourism can be traced back to 1988. He spent much of his career at Spanair, where he served for 17 years in top posts including Interline Manager, Charter Sales Manager and Special Sales Coordinator. As Operations Manager at Europair his mission is to ensure overall service quality at all times. This cheerful and outgoing Majorcan is passionate about travel, photography and technology.
Specialist in: Commercialization and management of charter operations, ACMI & Wet Lease
Alejandro Gutierrez (Finance Manager)
Finance Manager with 12 years of experience in positions of responsibility in companies of diverse sectors. His mission is to ensure an efficient financial management of our organization and maintain the ever-delicate interdepartmental balance. During out-of-office hours he loves to travel and practice sports, especially rugby. He is a member of the Industrial Engineering team of Las Rozas and actively participates in an inclusive rugby project, another of his great passions.
Specialist in: Finance
Lidia Blanco (Accounting Executive)
Lidia manages activities related to the areas of finance and accounting, IT and General Services. Her administrative support and her resolute and organized character make her a very valuable member of our organization. Friendly, lively and open-minded, in her free time she enjoys Literature, indie music and dancing to the rhythm of swing.
Specialist in: Administration
Paolo Massimo Patat (Broker – Sales Executive)
As part of our broker team, Paolo is passionate about aviation. He has a strong background in consultancy and intercultural communication, specifically in the Asian market, a part of the world where he lived for 5 years. Likeable, charismatic and well-mannered, our multilingual Milanese-Brit can't stop travelling and taking the « perfect » pasta recipe to every corner of the world.
Specialist in: Corporate accounts, international markets
Jenny Christopher (Broker – Sales Executive)
As part of our broker team, Jenny accompanies and advises our clients from start to finish, offering the best solutions to their requirements. Thanks to her previous experience in sales departments of different airlines, she's the one making sure that our close relationships with our national and international suppliers flow smoothly. Level-headed and warm-hearted, our sparkly Colombian is passionate about sports, music and dance.
Specialist in: Incentive flights, sports flights and ACMI
Véronique Mesa (Sales Executive France)
As part of our commercial team, Véronique is specialized in the French market. She spent much of her career at Voyages Fram, where she worked for 20 years as air transport manager. Born in Perpignan, she is Spanish-French bilingual and her extensive knowledge of the French tourist market is a great asset to our team. Her new mission at Europair is to provide dedicated care and improved service to our French clients. This likable and cheerful French is passionate about travel and photography.
Specialist in: French market, tour operation programmes
Nuria Palacios (Operations Executive & Quality Executive)
With more than 2 decades' experience dedicated to the world of aviation, Nuria has previously worked for Europair as a broker and sales representative. Nowadays, she juggles her role as Operations Executive with the responsibility for the implementation and monitoring of the company's quality system. An excellent communicator, serene and very methodical, this historian by training is very clear about the fact that if there were more hours in the day, she'd read, dance and travel more.
Specialist in: Integral Quality Management
Anne Schirbock (Marketing Executive)
Anne is responsible for the positioning and consolidation of our brand and corporate identity. Her mission is to present the experience, services and values of Europair from an innovative and unique stand-point. Creative, intrepid and cheerful, she left her native Germany to develop her professional career in Spain, where she found her second home. However, she returns to colder climes to practise winter sports whenever she can.
Specialist in: Online Marketing


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ThunderCats Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Collection
Posted By Ian Rebello
Nov 26, 2012
Category: Style
The mid 1980s brought about some of our favorite cartoon television shows, one of which being the amazing ThunderCats. Since its debut in 1984, the brand has gone on to become quite popular, and now we see our favorite ThunderCats gracing these Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers.
As part of the ongoing DC Comics and Converse partnership, the ThunderCats now get several of their own sneaker patterns for the holiday season. There are three different pairs available in the limited edition drop, all of which can be purchased for around $60 from the online Converse store directly.


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David G Trager Financial Disclosure Report for 2004
Category:Financial Disclosure
Number of Pages:8
Date Created:December 13, 2005
Date Uploaded to the Library:November 13, 2013
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A0-10 Government Act 1978 Rcv. l/2004 FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2004 U.S.C. app. 101-111) Date Report Peison Reporting {Last name, First name, Middle initial) Court Organization 41812005 Trager, David Eastern District New York Reporting Period magistrate judges indicate full-or part-time) Title (ArtiCJe III Judges indicate active senior status; ReportType (check appropriate type) 1/1/2004Q Nomination, Date Active: U.S. District Judge _Initial @Annual Final 12131/2004 Chambers Office Address the basis the information contained this Report and any modifications pertaining thereto, is, opinion, compliance 225 Cadman Plaza East with applicable laws and regulations. Brooklyn, New York IMPORTANT NOTES: The instruons accopanying this form must followed. Complete all parts, checking the NONE box for each parti,yhere you have reportable information. Sign last page. I.. PQ:s;ITiONS. (Rq,ori!ng individual only; see pp. 9-13 offillng instructions) t:J -; cNo reportabie.Positions.) . 'Tiustee Brooklyn Law School Trustee Brooklyn Hospital Center :i: -o Il. AGREEMENTS. =:1 ::0 ,-/' -rt NONE -(No reportable agreements.) e::i ..,,.,z c:::::i -.. '""' PARTIES AND TERMS ,.-,)> C'> .,z,,::;: ::::. -11 C"'> Name Person Reporting Trager, David ill. NON-INVESTMENT INCOME. (Reporting individual and spouse; see pp. 17-24 filing instructions) Filer's Non-Investment Income NONE (No reportable non-investment income.) SOURCE AND TYPE 2004 Brooklyn Law School -Adjunct Professor Date Report 41812005 GROSS INCOME (yours, not spouse's) 23550.00 2004 TIAA-CREF (Teachers Insurance Annuity Association/College Retirement 36642.39 Equity Fund) -Pension -Brooklyn Law School; supplemental retirement annuity Spouse's Non-Investment Income -(If you were married during any portion the reporting year, please complete this section. Dollar amount not required except for honorarla.) N.QNE (No reportable non-investment income.) ". SOURCE AND TYPE 2004 NYS Local Employees Retirement Syste!Il 2004 Self-Employed, Consultant 2004 IRA Keogh diStributions -N. REThffiURSEMENTS transportation, lodging, food, entertainment:( (Includes those spouse and dependent children. See pp. 25-27 instructions.) NONE -('lo such reportable reimbursements.) Brooklyn SOURCE Law School Reimb.of registration, travel, food lodging expenses participate annual meeting American Law Institute, May 17-19, Washington, Yale Law School Reimb.of travel, food lodging expenses participate member site-team inspection behalf ABA's Council (cont. Part Vlll) New York Council Defense Lawyers Reim.b. food lodging expenses attend Fall Bench and Bar Retreat. 1116-7, Old Saybrook, CT. Name Person Reporting Date Report Trager, David 41812005 GJFTS. (In-eludes those spouse and dependent children. See pp. 28-31 ofinstructions.) NONE -(No such reportable gifts.) SOURCE Date Report Name Person Reporting Trager, David 4/8/2005 -income, llue, transcations (includes those the spouse and dependent childrelL See pp. 34-57 filing instructions.) TIT. lNVESTMENTS and TRUSTS lJ. Income during Tr.insactions during reporting period Gross value end Description Assets reporting period reporting period (including trust assets) (1) (2) (1) Iinot exempt from disclosure Place "(X)" after each asset exempt from prior disclosure ]NONE (No reportable income, assets, tr.msactions) Pension Funds -TIANCREF -Retirement Annuity Dividend Salomon Smith Barney IRA Keogh -Cash Interest Equivalent Yeshiva University Retirement Income Plan Dividend (Prudential) U.S. Savings Bonds Series (face value) .aloD,ton Smith Barney Cash Equivalent Interest Interest ' Thrift Savings Plan Dividend T Listed Securities (all common shares): American International Group Dividend ATT Wireless Services, Inc. (formerly AT'I) None Sale 513 10. Bank America (Formerly Nationsbank) 11. Bank New York 12. H.J. Heinz (2) (3) (5) Amount Type (e.g. Value Value Type (e.g: Date: Value Gain Identity Code div. rent. Code2 Method buy, seU. Month Code Code! buyer/sellr (A-H) inL) (J-P) Code3 merger. Day (J-PJ (A-H) (if private (Q_-W) redemption) transaction) Dividend Dividend Dividend 14. International Paper Co. Dividend !shares SP 500 Imdx Dividend 15. KeyCorp (formerly Society Corp.) 16. Keyspan (formerly Brooklyn Union Gas) 17. Lucent Technologies 18. Merck Dividend Dividend None Dividend Partial Sale 11/12 lncomeJGain Codes: $1,000 less Sl,001-$2.500 $2,501-$5,000 S5.00l-$15,000 SIS,001-$50,000 {See Colwnns and 04.) $50,001-SI00,000 Sl00,001-Sl.000.000 Sl.OOO,OOl-SS.000,000 !-fore than $5,000.000 Value Codes: $15,000 less $15.001-$50.000 $50.001-$100.000 SI00,001-$250.000 Columns and D3) $250.000-$500,000 =$500,001-Sl.000,000 Sl,OOO.OOl-S5.000.000 SS.000.001-$25.000.000 $25.000.001-$50,000,000 =$More than $50.000,000 Value kdio


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German-Russian Folk Medicine: Old Docs, Prairie Women, and Healing Hands audio CD
This new collection of narratives from the Dakota Memories Oral History Project features fascinating stories about home remedies, recalls hospital visits for broken bones and ailments, and explains the art of healing called brauche. Carol Just, a German-Russian descendant and researcher, has provided context for these extraordinary memories.
German-Russian Food Traditions audio CD
In German-Russian Food Traditions, Leona (Kuhn) Hoff remembers her mother's homemade noodles and hardscrabble kitchen, Orion Arlyn Rudolph describes keeping perishables in a bucket in the well, John Gross' details how to make 'schwartamagan' (more commonly known as head cheese), and other narrators tell stories of canning, butchering, and traditional German-Russian dishes and food customs.
German-Russian War Memories audio CD
German-Russian War Memories" features narrations from the Dakota Memories Oral History Project (DMOHP). This project focuses on the childhood memories of the second-and third-generation Germans from Russia on the Northern Plains, from South Dakota to Saskatchewan. Many DMOHP narrators share stories regarding war — World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam Conflict, as well as the War on Terror. This program features stories about military service, cultural exchanges, domestic policies, and much more. Public historian Andrea Mott (who was also the 2009 DMOHP interviewer) adds scholarly insight into this ethnic group's experiences during wartime in America and abroad.
Germans from Russia Food Pantry Collection DVD
This DVD brings together three award-winning public television favorites that have been broadcast throughout North America. Enjoy "Schmeckfest: Food Traditions of the Germans from Russia" and "Recipes from Grandma's Kitchen" Volumes I and II in one DVD package, as well as bonus footage of chefs and complete recipes for the meals featured in the "Grandma's Kitchen" programs.
Germans from Russia History Collection DVD includes "Children of the Steppe, Children of the Prairie" AND "Prairie Crosses, Prairie Voices: Iron Crosses of the Great Plains"
The Germans from Russia History Collection includes two classic one-hour documentaries. In this dual set, "The Germans from Russia: Children of the Steppe, Children of the Prairie" and "Prairie Crosses, Prairie Voices: Iron Crosses of the Great Plains" are both available on one DVD.
Global Energy and Carbon: Tracking Our Footprint DVD
To film "Global Energy and Carbon: Tracking Our Footprint," Prairie Public visited middle-class homes in three very different environments, Minneapolis, Cameroon, and Delhi, to document a "typical" family's impact on the environment and workable strategies they can employ to reduce their carbon footprints.
This program is made possible with support from The Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) at the University of North Dakota
Growing Up German Russian: A Radio Series, Part I and II audio CD
This CD collection of narratives has been gleaned from the oral histories collection of the Dakota Memories Oral History Project.
Some of the narrators are Adam Boschee – Driving Tractor; Alice Ruth Miller Buck – Eating Ergot Kernels, Prairie Fire, Milking In Our Mouth; ElRoy Fischer – Car Catches Fire; Emil E. Schaffer – Funeral Song; James Vetter – Learning to Swim, Life in Russia; Marvin G. Fiechtner, Dirty Thirties; Marvin L. Hartmann – Life on the Prairie; and Ruth Dockter Fischer – Ellis Island.
Gutes Essen: Good Eating in German-Russian Country DVD
This 70-minute television documentary celebrates the food culture of the Germans from Russia who emigrated to south central North Dakota beginning in the 1880's. Visit the kitchens of 10 local cooks who make strudels, sauerkraut, kartoffel-kurbis strumbus, fleischkuechla, borscht, rahmnoodla, pickled beets, stirrum, knoephla soup, and kuchen. Spend a morning at the historic Model Bakery in Linton where kuchen is hand crafted, and tour Grandma's Kuchen in Ashley to see a mechanized method for mass marketing. Learn the tricks of making sausage at Schmitt Locker in Napoleon and the Supervalu Grocery in Zeeland; and explore the church fair and supper in Strasburg, Octoberfest in Napoleon and the 91st annual Sauerkraut Days in Wishek. The food is great—but the stories are even better.
Producer: Bob Dambach
Editor: Kelly Johnson
Contributors: Sue Kaseman Balcom, Acacia Jonas Stukle, Carman Rath-Wald
Executive Producers: Bob Dambach, Michael M. Miller
Production funding provided by Tri-County Tourism Alliance, Michael M. Miller, Julie Opp Burgum, and the members of Prairie Public.
Hay Day: Musical Barns of North Dakota
Hay Day: Musical Barns of North Dakota pays tuneful tribute to the barn, a rapidly disappearing icon of our Midwestern landscape and agricultural heritage.
The 60-minute documentary explores the architecture, history, preservation, restoration, and current uses of seven barns, accompanied by barn dance music from The Radio Stars, Rhythms of the Heart, Tigirlily, The Hay Shakers and more.
The documentary project has also grown to include a music CD and a beautiful coffee table book produced by Preservation North Dakota.
Herd About the Prairie DVD
Regional artists have transformed a herd of gray fiberglass bison figures into vibrant works of art. In this 30-minute DVD, Prairie Public follows the artists through the process of designing, creating and completing the bison to create a documentary that celebrates the history of our region and this unique public arts project.
Holiday Special: German-Russian Childhood Memories audio CD
This audio CD features stories from more than twenty "Dakota Memories Oral History Project" narrators who grew up on the northern plains.
"A Holiday Special: German-Russian Childhood Memories" is a project of the North Dakota State University Libraries and is a collection of narratives gleaned from the oral histories collection of the Dakota Memories Oral History Project.
Home Grown: German-Russian Farm Kids Remember audio CD
"Home-Grown: German-Russian Farm Kids Remember" features narrators of the Dakota Memories Oral History Project (DMOHP) who grew up on the Northern Plains, from South Dakota to North Dakota to Saskatchewan. During their oral histories, they share memories of growing up in an agricultural region. This audio CD features fascinating stories about farm machinery, techniques, and animals. Furthermore, agricultural historian Suzzanne Kelley adds scholarly commentary, placing this ethnic group's agricultural practices in the larger historical framework.
Homesteading DVD
Filmed in scenic North Dakota, South Dakota, Manitoba, and Minnesota locations through the four seasons, "Homesteading," a 60-minute documentary, blends interviews with historians, the stories told by descendents of homesteaders, and dramatic readings from pioneer diaries and letters to paint a picture of the people who struggled to create a life for themselves on the prairies.
In 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Homestead Act and created a world of opportunity for the 372,000 families that poured onto the prairies. The families came for many reasons—a hunger for land, a vision for the future, a longing for adventure, or an interest in profit. Some failed. Some scraped by. Some succeeded and, in the process, put down roots that shaped the region as we know it. Filmed in scenic North Dakota, South Dakota, Manitoba, and Minnesota locations through the four seasons, "Homesteading," a 60-minute documentary, blends interviews with historians, the stories told by descendents of homesteaders, and dramatic readings from pioneer diaries and letters to paint a picture of the people who struggled to create a life for themselves on the prairies. 60 minutes Producer: Kim Stenehjem Executive Producer: Bob Dambach Editor: Heidi Nelson Videographers: Dave Geck, Ryan Sailer, Ben Stommes, and Frode Tilden Music by Tom Porter and Chuck Suchy Major funding provided by North Dakota Council on the Arts, North Dakota Humanities Council, Minnesota Arts & Cultural Legacy Fund, and by the members of Prairie Public.
Hydrogen: Nature's Fuel DVD
You may know hydrogen can be used to fuel vehicles, but did you know that clean, abundant hydrogen is used safely all around you every day? "Hydrogen: Nature's Fuel," a 60-minute documentary, shows hydrogen at work in warehouses, golf courses, and even breweries. The hydrogen used in these applications is made in a variety of way from domestic sources. Hydrogen truly is nature's fuel. With hydrogen, we have the opportunity to create our own clean energy future.
"Hydrogen: Nature's Fuel" is a production of Prairie Public Broadcasting in collaboration with the National Center for Hydrogen Technology led by the University of North Dakota Energy & Environmental Research Center, Grand Forks, North Dakota. Executive Producers Bob Dambach and Michael Holmes; Editor Ann Hall Anderson; Writers Tera Buckley, Dan Daly, and Kirk Williams; Narrator Joyce Eisenbraun.
I Am A Person DVD
In 1982, Judge Bruce Van Sickle issued a series of orders that changed how North Dakota cares for its citizens who are developmentally disabled. Hundreds of children and adults left the overcrowded institutions in San Haven and Grafton to find homes in communities across the state. Thirty years later, I Am A Person is reviewing the historical context and investigating the outcome of that reformation. In this 60-minute documentary, the people who have been most affected by the change speak out—to explore what is possible when people with developmental disabilities are provided with the care they need to live full and happy lives, and to build awareness about how they contribute to their communities through both their work and social capital.
Producer: Kim Stenehjem Editor: Heidi Nelson Executive Producer: Bob Dambach Production funding provided by North Dakota Association of Community Providers through a grant from The North Dakota State Council on Developmental Disabilities and by the members of Prairie Public.
Award-winning radio, television, and public media services that educate, involve, and inspire the people of the prairie region.
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HTC has officially launched the extra-large 5 inch HTC Butterfly in Taiwan earlier today, the same device known as HTC J Butterfly for Japanese market and HTC Droid DNA in the US. HTC Butterfly is a smartphone running the latest version of Android 4.1 (JellyBean), it also comes with a Full HD touch screen and with IPX5 (waterproof support).
It wont be long before we see this beast landing in Europe. The Butterfly will be marketed in Taiwan for $22,990 Taiwan Dollars, about $650 USD.


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Author: mcousin
Istrouma High Centennial Event: Celebrating 100 Years
Please click on the links below to access forms and more information relative to Istrouma High School's Centennial Celebration:
Istrouma High School Grand Re-Opening
Istrouma High Band Equipment Drive
City Year Baton Rouge Family & Friends Day of Service
Smoke Signals: a news publication for Istrouma High School students, families and the community
An anniversary and a rebirth all in one: Istrouma looks to use athletics to forge a 2017 identity
Istrouma football coach Jeremy Gradney, girls track coach Shirnell Jackson, volleyball coach Ebony Noah-Williams, and girls basketball coach Demetrius White.
Read this weekends Advocate article about Istrouma Athletics, by clicking on the link below.
Jeremy Gradney named Istrouma Head Football Coach
Advocate staff photo by Robin Fambrough


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LONDON — The British government department responsible for international trade is reviewing how it can boost the effectiveness of its defense and security exports arm.
Industry executives said the focus of the work appears to be an effort to increase overseas sales in the cyber and security sector.
Companies, leading trade bodies like ADS and others have already been consulted in a review of operations at the Defence and Security Organisation. A report is likely to be completed in the next few weeks, they said.
DSO was formerly part of the government's business department but moved to become an arm of the Department for International Trade when it was formed last year following Britain's decision to exit the European Union.
A spokesman for DSO confirmed the review was underway but declined to go into details.
"A nonexecutive director has been asked to have a look at DSO to ensure that it, and the wider department, are able to provide the best possible support to our security, cyber and defense sectors. He is consulting a wide range of stakeholders and has not yet reached any conclusions. It would be premature to speculate about the potential outcome," the spokesman said.
The nonexecutive in question is Simon Walker, a well-known business figure in England, and the lead nonexecutive director at the Department for International Trade.
Walker was one of several individuals appointed to the board of the government department last year by Liam Fox, the international trade secretary and ex-defense secretary.
One industry executive, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said one of the aims of the review was to help support the many small and medium-sized companies working in the cyber and security sector.
Paul Everitt, the CEO of ADS, said the government needs to increase the level of security expertise and resource in DSO without impacting the defense side.
"Part of the work is about creating a stronger strategic relationship with other government departments like the Home Office and the [Department for Transport] to support potential export campaigns. The Ministry of Defence does that on key campaigns, and we need to be able to do that with other government department[s]," Everitt said.
A second industry executive said if Walker really wants to boost defense and security industries in England, he should recommend DSO be run by the Cabinet Office.
"Having the prime minister's office running DSO would make it clear to other government departments and overseas customers that defense and security exports are a priority of wider strategic importance to U.K. plc than just doing a deal," he said.
Resources have been an ongoing issue across DSO's operation for a while. Like most other government departments, employee numbers at DSO have dwindled over the last few years in the face of budget constraints.
That trend has recently been partially reversed by the introduction of industry experts seconded to the organization as part of what is known as the defense growth partnership — an arrangement between the government and industry to primarily help boost exports.
Overseas demand for British technology in cyber and security saw exports reach £4.3 billion (U.S. $5.7 billion) last year. Although that's a robust 7.4 percent increase over the previous 12 months, the growth rate is not as strong as in previous years.
Cyber accounted for more than a third of export revenues in 2016, with critical national infrastructure, border security and services also doing well.
By comparison, defense exports last year totaled £5.9 billion, although that's well down on the average for the British sector.
It's unclear how exports have performed this year, but expectations are that there will be a significant increase if the £6 billion deal earlier this month with Qatar for Typhoon jets and an associated package of weapon and training is counted in the 2017 figures.
The Ministry of Defence leads the British Typhoon and complex weapons export effort, although DSO does much of the leg work.
Everitt said he sees no reason why "security exports could not continue to grow to the point where they were equivalent to the figures achieved by defense."
Prospects for the local defense and security sectors overall are likely to be influenced by a national security capability review due to be completed by the Cabinet Office in the next few weeks.
Additional spending on cyber could be one of the items on the agenda, maybe at the expense of extra funds to stave off defense capability cuts caused by budget problems.
Mark Sedwell, the national security adviser leading the review, is said to believe that boosting cyber spending is more important than increasing the armed forces budget to stave off possible capability and program cuts.
The Walker review for the Department for International Trade comes at an opportune time as the DSO looks for a new boss to replace Stephen Phipson, who recently left the organization to take up the post of chief executive at the U.K. engineering employers association EEF.
Applications for the post recently closed, and an appointment is expected in the new year.


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In this posting we'll take a look at the stark differences between CCPM and CPM and why I believe that CCPM is the superior method. If you have any comments or questions, please leave them in the comments section of this blog and I will respond to them.
In CPM, tasks are over-inflated by at least 50 percent and here's where we take advantage of this extra time. We now subtract half of the time estimates from each one of the tasks and create a project buffer as in the following figure.
In CPM, tasks are over-inflated by at least 50 percent and here's where we take advantage of this extra time. We now subtract half of the time estimates from each one of the tasks and create a project buffer as in the following figure.
As you can see, the new tasks times are half of the original estimates, but you can also see that we now have added a project buffer. The project buffer becomes half of the time we have taken from the task durations. The next question we now posed to leadership was, how does having this project buffer improve the on-time completion of projects? Surprisingly, one member of the leadership team was able to give a wonderful analogy to answer this question. The team member said, "If I understand this concept, then the project buffer works just like a bank account with deposits and withdrawals. If a task takes longer than the estimate, you withdraw time from the project buffer, but if the task is finished in a shorter amount of time, you add the time back into the project buffer. We told him this was a great analogy.
With CPM, delays are passed on while gains are lost and this is such a significant difference! The project buffer protects the project from delays. We also explained that we also add feeding buffers to make sure that tasks not on the critical chain are completed on time.
At this point there was a question from the leadership team on why we thought that having this project buffer would eliminate the Student Syndrome and Parkinson's Law and we answered this question in the following way. In traditional project management, that is using the Critical Path Method (CPM), each task has a scheduled start and finish date. CCPM completely removes the start and finish dates from the schedule so that the focus will be passing on tasks as soon as they are completed. In doing so, both the Student Syndrome and Parkinson's Law are pretty much neutralized. We explained that CCPM uses a relay race mentality whereby the runner completes a certain distance and then passes off the baton to the next runner who is waiting.
Earlier I explained that in CPM we track progress of the project by calculating the percentage of individual tasks completed and then comparing that percentage against the project due date. The problem with this method is that it is nearly impossible to know how much time is remaining to complete the project. If you use this method to track progress, many times you'll see 90 percent of a project completed only to see the remaining 10 percent take just as long. In fact, looking at the number or percentage of tasks completed, instead of how much of the critical path has been completed, only really serves to give a false sense of schedule conformance. CCPM measures project performance in a much different way, and in so doing, allows the project to make valuable use of early finishes of tasks. CCPM uses something called a Fever Chart, which is simply a run chart of the percentage of the critical chain completed versus the percentage of project buffer consumed. In the figure below, you'll see three different colored zones. We explained the different colors as follows: Green means that the project is progressing either on or ahead of schedule; yellow means that the project is using more buffer than progress is being made and that it's time to develop a plan to reduce the rate of buffer consumption. Red means that buffer is being used at an alarming rate and that if no action is taken, the project will definitely be late.
In order to reinforce the interpretation of this color scheme, we then asked the leadership team if it was ever acceptable for your project to finish the project in the red on the fever chart and virtually everyone said no, except for one person. We then asked, this person to explain under what circumstances that it would that be acceptable.
The response was that ss long as the critical chain is 100 percent completed, and you haven't used more than 100 percent of your project buffer, then finishing in the red is perfectly acceptable. We agreed and told them that in fact, if both of these variables are at the 100 percent level, the project is exactly on time.
It was very important that the leadership team understood how to interpret the fever chart, so we then asked for a volunteer to explain what they saw on this fever chart. Some did volunteer and explained it very well. Tis project started off ahead of schedule by completing 20 percent of the critical chain while only consuming 8 percent of the buffer. But if you look at the latest data point, only 41 percent of the chain is complete, but 72 percent of the buffer has been consumed, This project is now behind schedule, and unless some kind of intervention is undertaken, this project will be late. It doesn't mean that this project is doomed to be late, but rather it only means that some kind of action must be taken, or the project will be late completing.
The key point to remember here is that you should get excited with vertical rises because it always spells trouble if left unattended, In addition, we explained that if you divide the percent of the critical chain completed into the percent of buffer consumed, this ratio could give a single number that would tell you how well you're doing. So if your ratio was above one, your rate of buffer consumption would be too high, while if the ratio is below one, everything is going well. This was important for the leadership to understand because they would not have to review every fever chart for every project. They could simply look at the ratio for each project and know if it was on schedule or whether it might need their help.
One other point we presented to the leadership team was the concept of a portfolio of projects. We presented the fever chart above to let them know that this was a tool that would allow them to see, at a glance, which projects might need their attention. On a single sheet of paper or one computer screen, they would be able to see which projects were red and yellow….those that might need their attention and which projects that they could ignore (i.e. the green ones). In the above fever chart we asked them which ones might be in need of an intervention and they all rightfully told us that projects 1 and 7 were clearly eating up buffer at an unacceptable rate and that projects 2, 3 and possible 8, might need some work. They also recognized that projects 4, 5, 6 and 9 did not pose a threat, at least for the moment.
There was another side of the CCPM implementation that we explained to the leadership team, key things that must be done if their CCPM implementation was going to be successful. We explained that every day there must be stand-up meetings with the key resources to find out what their resources might need.. By that we meant that they should go to the resources and ask them if they have everything they need and if they have any problems. The leadership team needed to understand that if the "boots on the ground" executing the projects couldn't resolve their issues, then they must escalate the problem up through the various levels of management. We explained that although this may sound trivial, it truly isn't and that if this step is not taken seriously, the implementation will never be sustained.
In my next posting, we'll take a look at the results achieved as a result of this implementation.
Bob Sproull


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Don't miss this rare offer for a truly all inclusive Bora Bora vacation. The luxury Le Meridien Resort Bora Bora is a fantastic place to relax and unwind and have a stress-free vacation where all your meals and drinks are included. (Not available for travel Jul 1 - Oct 20, 2016)
- Round trip airfare from Los Angeles to Tahiti on Air Tahiti Nui
- Roundrip Airfare on Air Tahiti from Papeete to Bora Bora
- Airport Meet & Greet
- 5 Nights at Le Meridien Bora Bora Resort in a Lagoon Overwater Bungalow
- Non alcoholic cocktail drink and fresh towel upon check-in
- 3 meals daily - buffet breakfast, 2-course lunch and 3-course dinner or buffet (except premium items - lobster, foie gras)
- Beverages during lunch and dinner: 1bottle of wine, soft drinks and water
- Drinks all day : water, soft drinks, beers, cocktail drinks at the bar before dinner – no premium alcohol or Champagne
- Turtle sanctuary access
- Free internet in all the resort /rooms
- All hotel transfers
- All taxes (except City Tax payable by the guest to hotels upon check-out : approx. 1.26 euros per person per night)
- Priced for Travel Apr 1-30, 2019; Nov 1 - Dec 13, 2019 and Jan 7 - Mar 31, 2020
- Other travel dates are available at a higher price. High season ( Jun - Oct) starts at $5420
(*) Published "from" package price is per person based on double occupancy and includes Economy Class round trip airfare from Los Angeles plus government fees and taxes. Package pricing is based on the lowest published promotional airfares and the lowest available hotel rates at time of publishing. The package price validity dates are indicated on each package page. Different seasonal supplements will apply to travel at different times of the year. Airfares require specific booking code seat availability, which is capacity controlled by the airline concerned, and travel restrictions apply. All airfares and flight schedules are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Fees for checked baggage may apply and vary by airline. For complete information, please visit the airline's Website. Due to currency exchange rate fluctuations, all land prices and taxes are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Package itinerary, availability and terms and conditions are subject to change at any time without prior notice. CST # 2098768-40


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Oh hey, my rascacielos! I'm Sam Lansky, pop music writer, and this is Pop Think, where I gush unapologetically about the pop stars who make my heart skip a beat. (Somebody should probably give it a break!)
This week's subject is my girl Demi Lovato, who overcame some major personal obstacles to release last year's most devastating and triumphant ballad, "Skyscraper." Now, she's set her sights on continued success with her latest single, "Give Your Heart A Break," one of the most perfect pure pop songs in recent memory. Demi's track record of pop excellence remains unbroken, and I'm examining why "Give Your Heart A Break" is some of her best work to date.
Late last year, I tweeted that the way Demi Lovato's voice cracks on the word "in" at 2:49 of "Give Your Heart A Break" is the Greatest Pop Music Moment of the Year, and a bunch of people retweeted it; this proves that I was empirically correct. (That's how the internet works, right?) In fact, since she's releasing that song as a single on Jan. 24, it will probably be the Greatest Pop Music Moment of the Year in 2012, too. But seriously, pay attention to that one little moment in the song, because it sums up everything that's compelling about Demi Lovato as a musician: Even when she's singing well-produced pop songs penned by a cadre of super-hitmakers, there's a very personal vulnerability that underpins her artistry, something beautiful and sad and, ironically, a little bit broken, in the best way possible.
It was, after all, no accident that her last studio album was titled Unbroken, given the tumultuous year that precipitated that record's release. The first single, the gut-wrenching masterpiece "Skyscraper," was all about survival and triumph, but the album is much more sonically and thematically diverse than that: It's top-heavy with club bangers and party jams, including collabs with Missy Elliott and Dev, then bursting with shimmery pop and melodically charged midtempos in its second half.
But after a song like "Skyscraper," which instantly became Demi's defining cut, it was smart to go with a follow-up single like "Give Your Heart A Break," which packs a subtle emotional wallop in its own right. It's also a song about pain, even if it's more a song about romantic turmoil than the overcoming-the-obstacles inspirational bent of "Skyscraper."
+ Read more about "Give Your Heart A Break" after the jump.
Demi worked with some of the finest songwriters and producers in the game on Unbroken, from Timbaland's glitchy R&B on "All Night Long" to Toby Gad's emotive balladry on "Skyscraper," but "Give Your Heart A Break" has a pop pedigree that's legendary, literally: It was penned by Billy Steinberg and Josh Alexander, the songwriting duo responsible for several of the most iconic pop songs of the last decade, including hits for the consistently brilliant Australian sister act The Veronicas, and JoJo's pop epic "Too Little Too Late." Prior to his collaboration with Josh Alexander, though, Billy Steinberg wrote songs that defined the sound of a generation, like Madonna's "Like A Virgin," Cyndi Lauper's "True Colors," and Heart's "Alone" -- songs that go down in the pop annals as some of the most brilliant and iconic tracks ever recorded. (Rolling Stone and MTV named "Like A Virgin" the fourth-best pop song ever. No big deal or anything.)
And the production is, predictably, superb, kicking off with bold "Viva La Vida" strings and a toe-tapping snare before the chorus brings in a flood of violins. On the bridge, a piano twinkles, a little wistfully. But it's her voice that really kills on this song, a big, gorgeous rasp that's unexpectedly powerful and capable of delivering serious emotion. OneRepublic vocalist and A-list scribe Ryan Tedder said of Demi when they worked together on Unbroken, "I had no idea how good her voice is. She's one of the best singers I've ever worked with. Literally, that good... I mean, she's a Kelly Clarkson-level vocalist. And Kelly has a set of pipes." And like Kelly, Demi can pack spectacular vocal runs and chilling depth into a dense, uptempo pop track; she doesn't need the sprawling tempo of a ballad to show how well she can sing.
Especially when she's working with lyrics like the ones on "Give Your Heart A Break," which tell the story of courting a guy who's a little bruised. "The day I first met you/You told me you'd never fall in love," she recounts, before the chorus breaks out: "Don't wanna break your heart/Wanna give your heart a break." The wordplay around the term "heartbreak" is clever enough, but the song is full of poignant little moments like that, like the sadly affectionate way Demi exhales the term of endearment "My love" in the second verse, or the way the track drops out around her as she belts out the words, "Baby try to understand," revealing only the crushing power of her vocal, or indeed, that little break in her voice as the song is winding down around 2:49 (which really is amazing, if you haven't heard it yet).
But it's more than her just singing the hell out of "Give Your Heart A Break" (which she does). Ultimately, it's the sound of a lot of great parts coming together -- the remarkable talents of the writers and producers, Demi's impressive inborn gifts as a vocalist and the sophistication of the artist she's becoming, one who's capable of imbuing a vocal performance with extraordinary emotional texture and resonance. If she keeps on releasing songs like "Give Your Heart a Break," I think that's an artist we'll be hearing about for a long time.
+ Listen to Demi Lovato's "Give Your Heart A Break."
Sam Lansky is a writer and editor from New York City. He goes hard for Swedish pop music, "Real Housewives" GIFs and juice. Follow him on Twitter or Tumblr.


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The much-anticipated second season of Smash, NBC's love-to-hate-it musical drama, begins Tuesday. With expectations high—series creator Theresa Rebeck and the Season One creative leadership were swapped out for Gossip Girlshowrunner Josh Safran—we talked to the breakout star of the show, Broadway's Megan Hilty. She opened up about her upcoming concert at Carnegie Hall and how a tough breakup inspired her while she was recording her new album—and gave us a few hints about the new characters in Season Two.
__The Hollywood Blog:__I want to talk about your upcoming concert with the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall, your debut album, and Season Two of Smash. Let's start with the concert. You're going to sing a Rat Pack set, with Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald songs?
Megan Hilty: Yes. It is a Sinatra-inspired concert, and I just wanted to hear these huge orchestras play all the big-band music, and it's so incredible. I got to do this concert at the Kennedy Center over Thanksgiving weekend, and we've made some changes since then; we've learned, and it's just incredible to hear these orchestras play this music!
So is that the biggest audience you've performed in front of so far?
No, I don't think so. I think for Wicked we had almost 3,000 a night, in Los Angeles.
Will this be your first time performing at Carnegie Hall?
Yes, my first time. I'm very, very excited.
I can imagine. Are you nervous about it at all? Or you don't get nervous?
Yeah. I get nervous about everything. I think there's something wrong if you don't get nervous. [Laughs.]
Are your family and friends all going to come to see the concert? Is this an exciting thing for someone who has already done a lot of big things?
Oh yeah. My family—I'm from Seattle, and they always come out for anything, so of course they're going to come for my Carnegie Hall debut. [Laughs.] I don't think the people from Smash are going to be able to come, because I think that's the night that we're supposed to wrap, so I might even miss my own wrap party to do this concert! [Laughs.]
The next exciting thing is that your first album comes out March 12, a few days after that concert. Why did you decide to do an album now?
Well, I never wanted to do one before, because I didn't feel like I had anything to say, and I thought it was very important to have a point to it instead of just doing a bunch of songs that I liked. And I also didn't want to do a musical-theater album, which I think people are expecting me to do. And it's not that I don't love musical theater; on the contrary, I have hundreds of musical-theater albums. But it just didn't seem right for me to do, for some reason. And once I started doing these pop covers on Smash, it started a dialogue between me and Columbia Records, and they asked if it was something I was interested in. I spent the whole summer pretty much just demo-ing songs, seeing if it was something that I could do, and there were a lot of songs that, really, deeply resonated with me, both covers and original songs. So the album's about 50-50 covers and original, but they're all very honest, and very representative of kind of the year I had last year, basically.
The notes that the record company sent about this album say, "The lyrics reflect the year I've had in breaking up and finding new love, and the music shows my eclectic tastes." So have you been on an emotional ride this past year, as well as working on Smash and recording an album? That must have been a lot on your plate.
Yeah. Good thing I have music to work out my stuff through. [Laughs.] You know, breakups are hard for anybody, and no matter how it happens or ends up, they're just hard. But I think it's very universal and totally accessible.
So are some of the new songs sort of Taylor Swift–ian? She writes about breakups and her exes.
Oh, well the thing is, I don't write music. I don't pretend that that's one of my talents [laughs], but some of the songs, especially the original ones, yeah, they speak directly to how I was feeling last year. And, uh, I do one cover that, really, it's all about forgiveness and learning to live without somebody, and it's just heartbreaking.
So is your romantic life as dramatic as Ivy Lynn's, your character on Smash?
No! Not nearly! Thank goodness. [Laughs.]
O.K., let's talk about Smash Season Two. Was it strange on the set that some of the cast from last season are gone?
Yeah, it was totally strange. It wasn't just cast; I mean, there was a lot of crew that were gone. We missed a lot of people, but we made a lot new friends.
Right, there are new characters on this season, I should add that. Now that the show has a new producer, Josh Safran, who was from Gossip Girl, are you all living on Park Avenue and wearing designer clothing this season?
[Laughs.] Well, I don't live on Park Avenue, but I will say I have some fantastic clothes this season. Everybody looks really good. Not that we didn't last season at all, but they did vamp it up a little bit.
Did Ivy's new costumes have anything to do with the new producer, or it just fit the story?
Well, it might be a little bit of both; I'm not quite sure. I know for my character specifically, they wanted to make her a little more glamorous, and, you know, she's going through a lot of changes, personally and professionally. To the point where she's even questioning if she wants to be in the business anymore. So this whole season she's revamping her life, and I think, as with anybody, your wardrobe reflects that. So there is kind of an artistic choice, and it's TV, so they want us to look good.
What was it like to work with Jennifer Hudson? Was it hard to work with her, with her big voice?
Oh no. She's so wonderful. It's amazing to, like, hear it live and up close, because she's so incredibly talented. She's so kind and generous, and she really brought a great energy to set.
New York Post theater gossip] Michael Reidel appearances are so funny.
Aren't they hilarious?
Do you read his column in the Post?
No! Well, it's funny, because he's said some really nasty things about shows that I've been in. So it's been really interesting getting to work with him. [Laughs.]
Is there going to be a second musical in development this season, or it's sticking with Bombshell?
Oh yeah. No, people keep talking about, like, "the rival musical," but there are several musicals happening, and you see numbers from all of them. So there's a lot of music this season, and they cover a lot of different genres. To the point where I even do a classical piece at one point; it really runs the gamut. And it's great.
Are Ivy and Karen vying for roles in these various musicals, or that's not necessarily the storyline?
Well, I will say that we don't do as much together as we did last season, but they've done a really great job of keeping us in competition, both professionally and personally. So we're constantly getting pitted against each other. But we do have wonderful moments where we come together and have fun, friend time, which makes it interesting.
I have to ask—how does Derek, the director, remain so bitchy? He's so constantly mean to Ivy and to Karen, and to everyone.
I know. But he's so charming at the same time, it's really weird. It's because Jack [Jack Davenport, the actor] in real life is the nicest person you've ever met. So only he could pull that off.
He's completely a pussycat in real life?
Oh, totally. He is genuinely one of the nicest people I've ever met and will just talk to you about anything. I mean, he is a talker. And, yeah, but he has some really great, redeeming moments in Season Two as well, like, some really touching moments, so it's great. Everybody's got a lot of stuff going on.
And does Julia really give up the scarves?
Well, we'll see about that, won't we?
__Your career—you landed Wicked right out of college, and then 9 to 5 the musical, and now you're on Smash. Are you still thinking, I can't believe this happened to me?__Yes. I am constantly, like, looking over my shoulder seeing if somebody's going to kick me out and realize that I'm not supposed to be here. You know, I'm pinching myself every day. I really do feel like the luckiest person ever. I think the biggest moment of that was at the Golden Globes the other week. I just kept going, "What am I doing here, with all these fancy people? With all these beautiful, fancy people."
I was going to ask which of these things—whether it was being on the stage in Wicked right out of school or performing at the Kennedy Center or whatever—was the most surreal? Was it the Golden Globes?
You know, each moment topped the last one, I think—so right now, the Globes definitely trumped everything. [Laughs.] That was the fanciest, most attractive group of people I have ever been around. And I have been around a lot of really attractive people in my job, so that's saying something.
Great. And one other question—this might be a spoiler, not sure I can use it, but I'm curious—the two new songwriters, played by Jeremy Jordan and Andy Mientus, that Karen discovers in a bar—do they have a big arc this season, or it's just a couple of episodes?
Oh, huge. They're huge. They're series regulars. And they've got a huge arc ahead of them


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Are you 65 years or older? Have you always wanted to see Mt. Everest, but thought you were too old? World Wide Trekking happens to have the perfect solution. Our all-inclusive SuperTrek package offers an alternative to the Everest Base Camp Trek. Enjoy similar stops and the same spectacular views of the highest mountain on Earth reaching a high point of 12,738 feet. Enhance your time in Kathmandu by visiting the Tengboche Monastery.
Stand in awe at the captivating sight of the world's highest peak while experiencing rich Nepalese culture first-hand. Let us help you achieve your goal of trekking to Mt. Everest today.
TRIP TYPE: Trek
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Moderate
TRIP LENGTH: 11 days/10 nights
TRIP COST: Contact us for pricing
Explore the Khumbu Valley in all its majesty
Experience the vibrant culture of the local Nepalese people
Trek to a beautiful viewpoint of Mt. Everest
Coming Soon!
One of World Wide Trekking's founding principles is giving back to the places we travel. Through our sister non-profit, Human Outreach Project, we are making a difference in lives around the globe, and connecting trekkers with voluntourism opportunities in local communities. We have a number of diverse projects in Nepal that WWTrek guests can get involved with.
The Human Outreach Project started with the decision to support Ang Pasang's children after his tragic death. Our projects in Nepal have grown to include trekking dental supplies in to the remote Namche Dental Clinic, supporting the Himalayan Rescue Association by rebuilding the Manang medical clinic, and improving the conditions at Juving Secondary School by adding a solar powered computer center and an industrial water filter. We have also supported many other projects, including emergency earthquake relief and cataract surgeries; find out more at HumanOutreachProject.org
- Spring: March through May
- Fall: September through November
This prime trekking weather is due in part because Nepal experiences two main seasons: wet and dry. You might end up drenched during the monsoonal period from June through September.
This trip begins and ends in Kathmandu, Nepal. You will fly into and out of Tribhuvan International airport (KTM).
*Many guests prefer to arrive before, or leave after, the scheduled itinerary. We can help you make arrangements. Additional charges for early arrival, transportation, lodging, meals, and activities will apply.
International airfares are not included in program pricing. WWTrek has an expert travel agent that can help you with all of your travel arrangements. Danny Genung at Harr Travel is more than happy to review the many flight options from the U.S. to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). You can reach him at firstname.lastname@example.com or 909.266.0117.
The benefit of using a travel agent is in the event of itinerary changes, the travel agent will find the best flight connections, and land arrangements, for you. Though third-party travel websites are convenient, we do not recommend using them due to instability in the itineraries. We also recommend that you protect your flight with travel insurance and a refundable ticket.
You will need a Nepal Entry Visa. Upon clearing customs in Nepal, you will be required to purchase a 30-day entry visa. The visa costs $40, so make sure to bring cash with you. It helps to have exact change. In addition, remember to bring two passport photos for the visa. Waiting and trying to have these taken in the Kathmandu airport will not only cause you undue delays, but it also tends to be exceedingly expensive.
Upon arrival in Nepal, you can expect the finest accommodations while staying in the Yak and Yeti or comparable hotel in Kathmandu. Enjoy stays in other hotels including the Fish Tail Lodge, Namgay Heritage Hotel, and Vara Hotel to name a few. Sleep in modest teahouses while on the mountain trekking to Everest base Camp. Visit our blog for more information about Nepalese teahouses.
World Wide Trekking boasts an extensive support crew for all of our groups ranging from 8 to 12 people. At headquarters in Salt Lake City, our staff is dedicated to helping you every step of the way. If you're planning your trip and have a question about which boots to buy, our adventure specialist is just a phone call away.
We provide medically certified, English-speaking Western guides for all of our adventures. Additionally, you have access to a local operations manager and a plethora of local professionals to aid the group on the mountain including porters, a tent crew, chefs, servers, dishwashers, separate toilet attendants, and anything else you can think of.
As in many parts of the world, gratuities are a symbol of a job well done. In addition to recognizing service people such as taxi drivers, restaurant, and hotel personnel, we also acknowledge our staff with a gratuity.
You should plan to tip any service person that helps you, 10% for taxi drivers and restaurant staff is the norm. Check to see that a gratuity is not already included in the bill. Remember, if tipping in US dollars, when calculating the exchange rate; be careful not to tip too much. As you know, tipping is your option and a reflection of the quality of service you receive.
Trekking Staff: At the trails-end, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a group tipping pool presented as we say our goodbyes.
You can easily exchange money in Kathmandu after you arrive. We will allot a specific time for all of our guests to exchange money during our Kathmandu Cultural Tour on day 2. Local currency is best on the trek. Spending varies depending on the person. We always recommend bringing $500 cash with you on your trip for incidentals, sodas, snacks, or souvenirs.
A land locked sovereign nation, Nepal encompasses an area of 56,827 square miles (147,181 sq km) and has a population of approximately 30 million. The rugged, mountainous terrain has proven to be key in both the preservation of the nation's deep cultural heritage as well as a hindrance to its worldly development.
27.8 million
Nepal Standard Time (NPT) is the time zone for Nepal. With a time offset from Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) of +5:45, all over Nepal Standard Time is one of only three time zones with a 45-minute offset from UTC.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Sherpas: The people of the Khumbu
The Sherpas are an eastern, indigenous people living in the eastern regions of Nepal. The word Sherpa is a combination of two Tibetan words, "Shyar," meaning east, and "Pa," or people. They are indeed easterners both in origin and present location of settlement, as they migrated from Eastern Tibet and now live in Eastern Nepal. While traditionally Sherpas were farmers and traders, today many work in mountaineering, trekking, or portering. The Sherpa people are known for their strength and relationship to the mountains. Therefore, the Khumbu region is well known as "Sherpa Land."
There are over one hundred different languages spoken in Nepal by the various ethnic groups. The main language spoken throughout the regions of Nepal, is Nepali. Our trek will take us through the Khumbu Valley where the villagers speak Sherpa, a Tibetan dialect, as well as Nepali.
The people of Nepal are as diverse as the land that sustains them. Inhabiting different altitudes, various ethnic, tribal, and social groups have maintained their unique heritage for centuries. Since the 1950's, many Tibetan refugees now call Nepal home and contribute to the country's vast array of culture.
Eighty percent of the population practice Hinduism, the world's third largest religion as well as the oldest. Originating in India, Hinduism's eclectic religious, philosophical, and cultural roots are characterized by their belief in reincarnation. The belied that one absolute being or soul is reborn multiple times in various manifestations until they achieve enlightenment. Ten Percent of the population practice Buddhism while the remaining 10% are either Muslim, Christian or Kirant (an indigenous religion). Both participants of Hinduism and Buddhism share many of the temples throughout Nepal, as their beliefs are similar. Often times, religious and cultural practices are difficult to distinguish as many individuals often employ dual faith practices.
The official currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee Introduced in 1932, the Rupee is abbreviated Rs. Check online for current conversion rates.


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Hello, I am a simple windows user who has to maintain some web pages and wants to use tidy to clean up the html produced by Word. I happen to recall that an installer could be downloaded from <http://www.w3.org/People/Raggett/tidy/>. Currently there is no installer on that page. Instead I was referred to <http://tidy.sourceforge.net/>. OOPS. That was a surprise! But not a nice one. I don't understand a word of that kind of talk about executable binaries, hash sums, compile farm executables, cvs sources, hash table versions, libary wrappers and so on. I have no idea what to download and how to install it. Please could you either provide a simple windows installer or clear instructions in plain English about what to download and how to install it. Thanks! ArnoReceived on Friday, 9 July 2004 05:56:18 UTC
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.3.1 : Tuesday, 6 January 2015 21:38:55 UTC


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Delivery is delayed until December. This is because the new display arrived later than expected. And the programming is taken some more time. The module set will mainly be made available as the 'single module' version. This means that the module contains an integrated display and can be used stand alone. The module will work in any board like a Modular, Exclusive or Munchen. And the software will be like the software version in the Revelation II, so with the speed bar. Price is 1.249 Euro including VAT.
The idea to deliver a cheaper option, by only delivering the printed circuit board so you can replace this in an existing set will no longer be available. Only a handful customers were searching for this option. You can if you like add the original display from an Richard Lang Module (Almeria to London), we will offer you a replacement printed circuit board for the display part of the set. Phoenix Chess Systems already offer this as a replacement for existing sets. REFLECTION, a name in the style of the previous systems and hinting to a reflection towards the past.
If you would like to buy the single module (complete with casing and new front plate) where the CPU and LCD is integrated in this single module, please sent an email to Phoenix Chess Systems. See contact for more information.


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The Golden State Warriors are looking to add Oklahoma City Thunder Star Kevin Durant. Now that is a sentence nobody wants to read. Reports came out today that suggested the Warriors are a team to watch to sign Durant if he doesn't resign with OKC. There is a "strong sense" the 27-year-old star could sign a two-year deal that includes a one-year opt-out with the Thunder, similar to what LeBron James did with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
This would be the best choice for Durant because his teammate Russell Westbrook is also a Free Agent after next season as well, so something to keep an eye on. Durant's comments Monday about free agency hinted that winning may be more important to him than money: "I'm worried about basketball. That's what it is for me. It's a basketball decision." If this holds true then unless a team likes the Celtics brings in guys that he wants to play with, it'll be hard for Durant to pass up on the Stars Golden State has to offer.
There are cons to this as well for the Warriors, if they sign Durant, they won't have enough money to sign most of their role players that made them so great. Players like Festus Ezeli, Andrew Bogut, Harrison Barnes, Leandro Barbosa, Marreese Speights, and a few others. Sure they will be able to sign a couple, but they will lose depth. Champion teams have great role players and benches, so that's the other side of it for the Warriors.
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Strengthen your defenses against fraud – don't miss this upcoming Fraud Symposium
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Hotel Information:
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A block of guest rooms have been reserved at the rate of $189 per night. To receive the group rate, make reservations prior to Saturday, July 22, 2017, or until room block is full.
Reservations by Phone: (406) 587-8180
Online Hotel Reservations: Homewood Suites
Please email firstname.lastname@example.com if you have any dietary restrictions.


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In the regional capital of Simferopol, 10,000 Muslim Crimean Tatars rallied in support of Ukraine's interim leaders, waving Ukrainian flags and chanting "Ukraine is not Russia" and "Allahu Akbar," while a smaller pro-Russian rally nearby called for stronger ties with Russia and waved Russian flags.
Protesters shouted and punched each other in ongoing scuffles outside the regional assembly, as police and leaders from both sides struggled to keep the two groups apart.
The tensions in Crimea - a peninsula jutting into the Black Sea that is strategically critical because it is home to Russia's Black Sea Fleet - highlight the divisions that run through this country of 46 million after months of protests that ultimately forced the pro-Russia President Viktor Yanukovych to flee the capital.
It also underscores fears that the country's mainly Russian-speaking east will not recognise the interim authorities' legitimacy.
Meanwhile, Ukraine's acting interior minister on Wednesday ordered the disbandment of a feared riot police force that many accuse of attacks on protesters during the country's three-month political turmoil.


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