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By Jeffrey May, J.D.
The U.S. Court of Appeals in St. Louis denied a petition by Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM), an advocacy group representing its members in the food and agricultural sectors, for review of 2017 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) orders withdrawing an interim final rule and two proposed regulations promulgated under the Packers and Stockyards Act (PSA). Two core PSA provisions make it unlawful for any packer, swine contractor, or live poultry dealer to "use any unfair, unjustly discriminatory, or deceptive practice" or "give any undue or unreasonable preference or advantage to any particular person or locality in any respect." In late December 2016, the USDA published an interim final rule—known as the Farmer Fair Practices Rules—declaring that a finding of adverse effect on competition was not necessary in all PSA cases. In response to the USDA's decision in 2017 to withdraw the interim final rule and to take no further action on the regulations, OCM and three of its members sought review, arguing that the agency's conduct was arbitrary and capricious and that the court had to compel agency action. The court concluded that, in withdrawing the interim final rule and taking no further action on the proposed regulations, the USDA offered legitimate regulatory and substantive concerns. It adequately explained the proposed regulatory change of course would generate protracted litigation, adopt vague and ambiguous terms, and might prevent innovation and foster vertical integration that would hinder new market entrants (Organization for Competitive Markets v. U.S. Department of Agriculture, December 21, 2018, Loken, J.).
The interim rule and proposed regulations were announced in December 2016, at the end of the Obama Administration. OCM took issue with the Trump Administration's rollback of these proposals.
According to OCM's petition for review, in the interim final rule the USDA made clear that a farmer could establish that a packer or swine contractor had violated Section 202(a) or Section 202(b) of the PSA without proving that the packer's or swine contractor's actions caused, or would be likely to cause, competitive harm to the market, as opposed to individualized harm to the victim of the unfair practice. OCM also asserted that, in the proposed regulations, the USDA sought to (1) clarify certain types of conduct that the agency considered to be unfair, unjustly discriminatory, or deceptive, and thus a violation of Section 202(a) of the PSA; and (2) identify criteria that the USDA would consider in determining whether a packer or swine contractor had engaged in activity that constituted an undue or unreasonable preference or advantage in violation of Section 202(b) of the PSA.
The appellate court concluded that the USDA's actions were valid agency actions, noting that "not surprisingly" the "USDA's incoming Secretary, acting on a promise to reduce regulation, took action to postpone and then cancel these proposals." The USDA offered two main justifications for its decision to withdraw the interim final rule: (1) the interim final rule would conflict with decisions in at least four circuits, and that "a regulation conflicting with relevant Circuit precedent will inevitably lead to more litigation in the livestock and poultry industries [which] serves neither the interests of the livestock and poultry industries nor [USDA]"; and (2) there was no "good cause" that warranted issuing the interim final rule without additional notice and public comment, because of the six-year delay between the initial comment period and publication of an interim final rule that was not contained in the 2010 proposal; the substantial public interest in the proposal; and "no evidence that the public would suffer harm following the normal notice and comment procedure." As for the proposed regulations, the USDA decided to continue a case-by-case approach with respect to unfair and deceptive practices.
The decision to withdraw the interim final rule to avoid litigation was rational, according to the court. It was based on legitimate regulatory and substantive concerns. The court also explained that this was not a case where the USDA failed to take action in the face of multiple unambiguous commands from Congress.
The case is No. 17-3723.
Attorneys: Adam Grogg (Democracy Forward Foundation) for Organization for Competitive Markets. Ramona E. Romero, U.S. Department of Agriculture, for U.S. Department of Agriculture. Jefferson B. Sessions, III, U.S. Department of Justice, for the United States.
Companies: Organization for Competitive Markets
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Potluck Sign Up Sheet Template
Potluck Sign Up Sheet Template. Say goodbye to illegible headers and crooked columns on a legal pad, or to the tedium of typing out your own sign up sheet with all those numbered lines. Here's one you can use right now, just download and print! Online Sign up sheets are also included when you sign up for a free findandremind membership, where you can coordinate all your sign ups on the website from anywhere and eliminate the paper!
Download your Potluck Sign Up Sheet Template
A Potluck Sign Up Sheet To Get Your Party Started With Style
Next time you're organizing a potluck, print and bring along this Potluck Signup Sheet Template. Its customized column headers provide places to list everyone's names, their contact information, and the items they're bringing. Using this pretty potluck signup template will reflect well – just like you, it's good looking and well organized!

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Polymer-based photovoltaics have the potential to contribute to boosting photovoltaic energy conversion overall. Besides allowing large-area inexpensive processing, polymeric materials have the added benefit of opening new market applications for photovoltaics due to their low-weight and interesting mechanical properties. The energy conversion efficiency values of polymer photovoltaics have reached new record values over the past years. It is however crucial that stability issues are addressed together with efficiency optimization. Understanding fundamental materials aspects is key in both areas.
In the work presented in this thesis, the morphology of polymer:fullerene films and its influence on device performance was studied, as well as the effect of light exposure on the surface of fullerene films. Several polyfluorene copolymers were used for the morphology studies, where the effects of changing spin-coating solvent and of side chain engineering were investigated with dynamic secondary ion mass spectrometry (dSIMS) and near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy. Polymer-enriched surfaces were found in all blend films, even in the cases with homogeneous distributions in the bulk. Side chain engineering of the polymer led to gradual changes in the compositional variations perpendicular to the surface, and to slight variations in the photocurrent. The electronic structure of the fullerene derivative PCBM was studied in detail and the spectroscopic fingerprint of the materials was analysed by comparison with theoretically simulated spectra. Photo-stability studies done in air showed that the surface of fullerene films underwent severe damages at the molecular level, which is evident from changes in the valence band and X-ray absorption spectra. These changes were explained by transitions from sp2-type to sp3 hybridization of the carbon atoms in the cage that resulted in the destruction of the fullerene cage.
Polymer photovoltaic systems whose photoactive layer is a blend of a semiconducting polymer with a fullerene derivative in a bulk heterojunction configuration are amongst the most successful organic photovoltaic devices nowadays. The three-dimensional organization in these layers (the morphology) plays a crucial role in the performance of the devices. Detailed characterization of this organization at the nanoscale would provide valuable information for improving future material and architectural design and for device optimization.
In this thesis, the results of morphology studies of blends of several polyfluorene copolymers (APFOs) blended with a fullerene derivative are presented. Near-Edge X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy was combined with dynamic Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (dSIMS) for surface and in-depth characterization of the blend films. NEXAFS was performed using two different electron detection methods, partial (PEY) and total (TEY) electron yield, which provide information from different depth regimes. Quantitative compositional information was obtained by fitting the spectra of the blend films with a linear combination of the spectra of films of the pure components. In blends of APFO3 with PCBM in two different blend ratios (1:1 and 1:4 of polymer:fullerene) NEXAFS data show the existence of compositional gradients in the vertical direction for both blend ratios, with clear polymer enrichment of the free surface. A series of APFOs with systematic changes in the side-chains was studied and it was shown that those small modifications can affect polymer:fullerene interaction and induce vertical phase separation. Polymer-enrichment of the free surface was clearly identified, in accordance with surface energy minimization mechanisms, and a compositional gradient was revealed already in the first few nanometers of the surface of the blend films. dSIMS showed that this vertical phase separation propagates throughout the film. It was possible to determine that as the polar character of the polymer increases, and thus the polymer:fullerene miscibility is improved, the tendency for vertical phase separation becomes stronger.
Morphological control and characterization of blend films is key in the development of viable polymer solar cells. Spontaneous formation of vertical compositional gradients during solution processing has been shown for polyfluorene:PCBM blends and rationalized with thermodynamic and kinetic models of nucleation and spinodal decomposition.[1, 2] The extent of vertical stratification is affected by polymer side-chain modification aimed at controlling polymer:fullerene miscibility.[3] Here we present high-resolution film morphology results for several polymer:fullerene systems as obtained from near-edge X-ray fine structure spectroscopy (NEXAFS) in partial and in total electron yield modes. Blend films were found to be polymer- enriched at the surface. Dynamic secondary ion mass spectrometry (dSIMS) and NEXAFS give compositional information at different depths, resulting in a more complete picture of the film morphology.
The surface composition in spin-coated films of polyfluorene:fullerene blends was determined quantitatively by near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy. By comparing partial and total electron yield spectra, we found vertical compositional differences in the surface region. Furthermore, the orientation of the polymer chains was investigated by variable-angle NEXAFS. Blend films of poly[(9,9-dioctylfluorenyl-2,7-diyl)-co-5,5-(4′,7′-di-2-thienyl-2′,1′,3′-benzothiadiazole] with [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester in two different blend ratios were studied. Results showed polymer enrichment of the surfaces for films with a polymer:fullerene weight ratio of 20:80 and of 50:50, spin-coated from both chlorobenzene and chloroform solutions. The angular dependence of the NEXAFS spectra of the pure polymer films showed a preferential plane-on orientation, which was slightly stronger in the subsurface region than at the surface. In blend films, this orientational preference was less pronounced and the difference between surface and subsurface vanished
Fullerenes are common electron acceptors in organic solar cells. Here the photostability in air of the electronic structures of spin-coated PCBM ([6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester) and evaporated C60 films are studied using ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) and near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy. After exposing these materials in air to simulated sunlight, the filled and empty molecular orbitals are strongly altered, indicating that the conjugated π-system of the C60-cage has degraded. Even a few minutes in normal lab light induces changes. These results stress the importance of protecting fullerene-based films from light and air during processing, operation, and storage.
Achieving control over the nanomorphology of blend films of the fullerene derivative [6,6]-phenyl C61-butyric acid methyl ester, PCBM, with light-absorbing conjugated polymers is an important challenge in the development of efficient solution-processed photovoltaics. Here, three new polyfluorene copolymers are presented, tailored for enhanced miscibility with the fullerene through the introduction of polymer segments with modified side chains, which enhance the polymer's polar character. The composition of the spincoated polymer:PCBM films is analyzed with dynamic secondary ion mass spectrometry (dSIMS). The dSIMS depth profiles demonstrate compositional variations perpendicular to the surface plane, as a result of vertical phase separation, directed by the substrate. These variations propagate to a higher degree through the film for the polymers with a larger fraction of modified side chains. The surface composition of the films is studied by Near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (NEXAFS). Quantitative analysis of the NEXAFS spectra through a linear combination fit with the spectra of the pure components yields the surface composition. The resulting blend ratios reveal polymer-enrichment of the film surface for all three blends, which also becomes stronger as the polar character of the polymer increases. Comparison of the NEXAFS spectra collected with two different sampling depths shows that the vertical composition gradient builds up already in the first nanometers underneath the surface of the films. The results obtained with this new series of polymers shed light on the onset of formation of lamellar structures in thin polymer:PCBM films prepared from highly volatile solvents
The fullerene derivative [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester plays a key role for electron transport in polymer solar cells. We have studied the unoccupied molecular orbitals of PCBM by near edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy and were able to assign the main resonances to molecular moieties by comparison with calculated sum spectra of individual carbons. We analyzed specifically the origin of the high-energy shoulder to the first π∗-resonance and identified contributions from the lowest-energy transition of a specific carbon in the phenyl and from transitions to higher unoccupied orbitals of the unmodified carbons in the C60-cage.
A simple photolithography method was developed for patterning organic field effect transistors (OFETs) prepared from blends of poly(3-hexylthiophene), P3HT, and [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester, PCBM.(1) This Photo-induced and Resist-free Imprint patterning (PRI) technique allows also the single solution step production of organic CMOS circuits.(2) It consists of two subsequent processing steps: 1) exposure: photo-irradiation of the P3HT:PCBM blend by visible laser light and 2) development: rinsing of the film in an organic solvent mixture that is selective for PCBM. As a result, two electronically different materials are obtained, i.e. the exposed and developed (ED) material, and the unexposed and developed (UD) material. The method is based on the modification of the PCBM component in the irradiated area, which becomes effectively insoluble in the solvent mixture, while the PCBM in the non-irradiated area is removed during development. Therefore, we expect that the UD material is pure P3HT, a hypothesis that is confirmed by the p-type conductivity of the ED region. Near-Edge X-ray Absorption Fine Structure spectroscopy (NEXAFS) was used to determine the surface composition of these films. C K-edge NEXAFS spectra of pristine, photo-exposed, and developed blend films, as well as films of the pure components were measured at the synchrotron facility MAX-lab in Lund, Sweden. The spectra for P3HT and PCBM are significantly different and the components can be clearly distinguished in the blend spectra. From the relative intensities of the P3HT and PCBM peaks, the actual blend composition can be estimated, both on the surface, using partial electron yield (PEY), and deeper in the sub-surface region of the film, using total electron yield (TEY). From the similarity of the spectra of the UD blend sample and the pure P3HT sample, we conclude that the remaining material after washing the pristine blend is indeed P3HT, and the ED blend sample retains its two-component character. The surface composition of the blend films is significantly more polymer-rich than the bulk blend ratio used to prepare the film. Both for the pristine blend and the photo-exposed blend differences are observed between the PEY and TEY spectra, indicating the existence of a polymer-enriched surface. Such gradients in thin films of P3HT:PCBM blends have been observed by others using variable-angle spectroscopic ellipsometry,(3) NEXAFS,(4) and neutron reflectometry,(5) and also in other polymer:PCBM blends by dynamic secondary ion mass spectrometry (d-SIMS).(6)
References (1) Dzwilewski, A.; Wagberg, T.; Edman, L. J. Am. Chem.Soc. 2009, 131, 4006. (2) Dzwilewski, A.; Matyba, P.; Edman, L. J. Phys. Chem. B 2010, 114, 135. (3) Campoy-Quiles, M., et al., Nature Materials 2008, 7,158-164 (4) Germack,D.S. et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 2009, 94, 233303. (5) Kiel, J.W. et al., Soft Matter 2010, 6, 641-646. (6) Björström, C.M. et al, J. Phys.: Condens. Matter 2005, 17, L529-L534.
The film morphology and device performance of planar heterojunction
solar cells based on the molecular donor material α-sexithiophene (6T) are investigated.
Planar heterojunctions of 6T with two different acceptor molecules, the C60 fullerene and
diindenoperylene (DIP), have been prepared. The growth temperature of the 6T bottom
layer has been varied between room temperature and 100 °C for each acceptor. By means
of X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption, we show that the crystallinity and the molecular
orientation of 6T is influenced by the preparation conditions and that the 6T film
templates the growth of the subsequent acceptor layer. These structural changes are
accompanied by changes in the characteristic parameters of the corresponding
photovoltaic cells. This is most prominently observed as a shift of the open circuit
voltage (Voc): In the case of 6T/C60 heterojunctions, Voc decreases from 0.4 to 0.3 V,
approximately, if the growth temperature of 6T is increased from room temperature to 100
°C. By contrast, Voc increases from about 1.2 V to almost 1.4 V in the case of 6T/DIP solar
cells under the same conditions. We attribute these changes upon substrate heating to
increased recombination in the C60 case while an orientation dependent intermolecular coupling seems to change the origin of the photovoltaic gap in the DIP case.
The thermal behaviour of an organic photovoltaic (OPV) binary system comprised of a liquidcrystalline fluorene-based polymer and a fullerene derivative is investigated. We employ variabletemperature ellipsometry complemented by photo- and electroluminescence spectroscopy as well as optical microscopy and scanning force nanoscopy to explore phase transitions of blend thin films. The high glass transition temperature correlates with the good thermal stability of solar cells based on these materials. Furthermore, we observe partial miscibility of the donor and acceptor together with the tendency of excess fullerene derivative to segregate into exceedingly large domains. Thus, for charge generation less adequate bulk-heterojunction nanostructures are poised to develop if this mixture is exposed to more elevated temperatures. Gratifyingly, the solubility of the fullerene derivative in the polymer phase is found to decrease if a higher molecular-weight polymer fraction is employed, which offers routes towards improving the photovoltaic performance of non-crystalline OPV blends.


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|Biosequences .. Software .. Molbio soft .. Network News .. FTP
Dan Smith wrote: > Issue Questions: > > 1. What is your general background in regards to plants, landscaping, > environment, etc.? 25 years experience in golf course management and landscape industry. Several years ago, I literally stumbled into a job installing trees and shrubs for a golf course being renovated. They were "naturalizing" non play areas of the course to reduce maintenance, irrigation, fertilizer and chemicals. The native areas also provided buffering for nutrient runoff from reaching water bodies. Up to that point in my career, I was bored with typical landscapes and design. The challenge of recreating a native ecosystem (not really an ecosystem, it just looks like one for a long time) which are self sufficient is a greater challenge than designing something "pretty" and having to mow, water, prune, fertilize, spray, mulch, weed it to maintain that pretty picture we envision. Native landscapes are also appealing to the eye. > > 2. What % of a large land area (i.e.-TESC Campus) available for > landscaping should be made available for native plants (100%=all > available landscaping area devoted to natives.)? A landscape consultant told me one time that landscapes are the support system for a building or facility. They provide soil stabilization, utilities, dispose of waste (drainage). On a playing field, the turf maintains the terrain desired for the desired activity. Looking at the landscape and the campus from that view, what functions does the landscape perform on the campus? How much money is being expended to perform those functions? Are areas of the campus being maintained at a high level of intensity where it is not necessary? If you divide the landscape of the campus into three categories A,B,C, where A is intensive maintenance, B requires minimal maintenance, and C requires minimal, semi-annual or annual maintenance, then the C areas of the campus are the areas to begin considering for naturalization. Your goal when utilizing native plants should be to create self sustaining natural environments, not landscaping with native plants, whether that area is 1000 sq. ft. or 50 acres. > > 3. In consideration of the above, what % should grasses/lawn cover? I don't think that the football team will appreciate playing games in foot high prairie grasses, but other areas may be appropriate for their use. > > 4. Should wildlife be encouraged with native plantings? Yes, but I would not suggest planting the favorite snack foods for the local bear population to hang around all the time. By attracting birds and smaller mammals to these areas, you will also attract the predators to these smaller animals, so be aware of cause and effect. > > 5. If non-natives were to be replaced, how would that affect the > image of the landscaped area (aesthetic values, etc.)? If you mean removing a ligustrum to replace it with a native shrub which will look the same, then why are you bothering? Getting back to the classification of the campus by A,B,C, leave the high profile areas alone. Worry about them later, if ever. > > 6. If your stance is pro-native, what resolutions would you suggest > to make a change in current trends? My stance isn't pro-native. It is naturalize areas, reduce water use, fertilization, chemical application and maintenance expenditures. Spend that money where it is needed, in the high profile areas of the property. > > 7. How would you summarize this issue if you were to advocate your > position, considering both pros and cons? Utilizing native plants in landscaping is more than just plant selection. If you plant a native plant, but then have to irrigate it continuously because it is not in it's correct environment, then you have missed the point of utilizing natives. The goal should be to reduce, irrigation, fertilization, etc., and manpower. Are you naturalizing your landscape or just landscaping with native plants? Tom Stone NaturGolf -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://iubio.bio.indiana.edu/bionet/mm/plantbio/attachments/19991110/d2adff83/attachment.html


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If there is one event that could truly sum up the essence of South Texas, we have found it: Rattlesnake Round Up!!!!!!!!(You should read this with a monster truck announcer them in your head by the way)In the year that I have lived in South Texas, I have come to understand that there are 3 pillars that make up what Texans call a good time. The first and probably most important one is beer, the colder and cheaper the better. Beer works as a social lubricant that ties together Latino and "'Merican" culture. For example, take brisket; a fine cut of beef that Texans love to cook slow and low. Now, take a taco; a true staple in Latino food. Blend them together and you have a south Texan original. The second pillar is Texas Country music, which is not this high polished tight jean wearing stuff we all think of. It is completely normal for the music down here to be a blend of Mariachi and country that somehow flows together quite well. The last pillar that is a true necessity to get people together down here is pure danger.
The Rattlesnake Round up in Freer Texas is a quintessential example of a good time down here, and we loved every minute of it. It was about an hour and half from where we live. One of the best parts of taking a road trip in South Texas is the fact that most of land is divided into hunting ranches, which by themselves is nothing exciting but many ranchers down here fly in large African game to their private ranches, which adds a safari like quality to your road trip. It is quite normal to see gems brook or kudu while driving around, this trip was no different.
When we finally arrived, we pulled into a large dirt lot. As always the wind was gusting up to 30 miles an hour, so the air consisted of a nice brown tinge that immediately covered you in a fine layer of sand and dirt. We heard gun fire as soon as we opened our door. Shocked by this we made our way through the parking lot, paid an entry fee and went to see all of the commotion. It was a Wild West reenactment, with hard looking men wearing some serious mustaches shooting at each other with blanks (pillar 3). We met our friends, by the entry gate they had drinks in hand (pillar 1).
We went straight to the rattle snake pit. Inside this pit of doom (at least that's what I call it) were about 30 rattlesnakes that ranged from 1 to 4 feet in length. You might be thinking in your head HAHA! Pillar 3 but no, sadly that was not the dangerous part. Pillar 3 was the fact that the men inside this pit would grab random pissed off rattlesnakes (their demeanor was quite evident by the rattling) by their head and tail and would drape them over little children for their parents to snap a quick photo (pillar 3). Call me crazy but growing up in the suburbs of west Chicago, if someone saw a man who looked fresh out of Deliverance wrap your small child in a rattlesnake and you smiled and took a photo, there is little doubt in my mind that child protective services would be on speed dial somewhere.
After about ten minutes of staring in utter disbelief, we made our way to the rest of the festival. I know you are all wondering if we had a snake wrapped around us for a photo, but sadly we did not. This seemed to be a privilege reserved for the youth…..after all a rattlesnake bite is only mildly life threatening to an adult the true danger lies with the children! Past the snake pit was a flea market filled with wonderful trinkets, rattle snake belts, wallets, key chains with rattle or head your choice, hair clip, bracelet, boots, note pad cover and just your good old snake head in alcohol. Nothing really jumped out to me or Sara as being our style so we just passed on by.
At the end of flea market was a crowd gathered of mostly children clapping. Deep down inside of me I knew something truly unique and strange was coming my way, disappointment did not follow. There was a monkey, the same kind you see in outbreak (pillar 3). He was on a chain, wearing a banana coat with a sombrero, and for only 1 dollar (which the monkey would collect from you) you could allow your child to step into the ring with the monkey and he would climb up your kid sit on his or her shoulder and you could again take a photo.
We made our way to the beer tent (pillar 1) by the stage, where some country band was in a full on jam session (pillar 2) then to the food tent where I was enlightened on a new favorite food, the brisket taco covered in Pico de gallo. As I sat down eating my meaty treat, I looked around and took in the environment as a whole. Kids running around throwing fireworks at each other (pillar 3….again), dancing, eating and drinking, throw in a shady looking carnival in the background (my wife and I rode the Zipper, and if you have to ask just what that ride is, you have truly never lived….or almost died). It was really just a good ol'American shindig and we loved every minute of it!
Do you guys have any crazy festival stories? (or texas stories? 🙂 )


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Fit Fido: How to Exercise Your Dog Right in Your Backyard
Approximately 56 percent of dogs are currently overweight or obese.
If your dog falls into one of these categories, it's essential that you make sure they're getting a sufficient amount of exercise. But, that can sometimes be hard to do, especially if you don't have as much time as you'd like to take them out for walks.
Luckily, you don't necessarily have to take your dog for a walk to help them stay healthy and fit.
Read on to learn how to exercise your dog without leaving the comfort of your own backyard.
Benefits of Exercise for Dogs
Besides helping them maintain a healthy weight, there are lots of other reasons to make sure your dog gets regular exercise.
Some other benefits you'll see when you exercise your dog on a consistent basis include:
- Fewer destructive behaviors (scratching, chewing, etc.)
- Fewer investigative behaviors (garbage raiding)
- Reduced hyperactivity and excitability
- Reduced predatory and rough play
- Fewer attention-seeking behaviors (barking, whining, jumping, etc.)
When they get regular exercise, there's also a good chance that your dog will sleep better at night.
This means that you'll also get a better night's rest since you won't have to worry about getting up with them as often, if at all.
How to Exercise Your Dog in Your Backyard
If you can't get your dog out for regular walks, the next best thing is to make an effort to exercise them outside in your backyard.
The following are some simple ways to help your dog get the exercise they need:
Play Fetch
One of the easiest things you can do to exercise your dog in your backyard is to simply play fetch with them. All you have to do is get some fun toys and throw them across the yard for your dog to retrieve.
You can also buy a retrieval tool that makes it easier for you to pick up and throw the ball without tiring out your arm.
Set Up an Obstacle Course
Tire out your dog and give them a new challenge by setting up an obstacle course in your backyard. Let them crawl through tunnels, jump over small barriers, or weave their way through cones.
It may take some time to master these obstacles, but they'll eventually learn some great new tricks and improve their agility.
Give Them Easy Outdoor Access
If you have more than one dog, sometimes, just letting them chase each other around the backyard is sufficient.
The key is to make it easy for them to go outside and play. Try installing a dog door so they can run around in the backyard whenever they want.
Before you go ahead with the installation, be sure to read more about pet doors online to figure out which one is best for your house and your dogs.
Use a Flirt Pole
A flirt pole is a pole that has a toy attached to it with a string. This can be a great option if you have a small dog or puppy that tires out easily.
Simply sit or stand and dangle the toy over them while they chase it — it's that easy!
Get More Pet Care Tips Today
Now that you know how to exercise your dog, you might be interested in learning what other steps you can take to make sure they're living a healthy, happy life.
Check out the pets section of our site today for a variety of simple dog care tips and tricks.
You'll learn everything from how to train your dog to how to spot and prevent infections and other illnesses.


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Press Releases
Targum Shlishi Supports New Anthology Of Essays On Spiritual Themes
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Targum Shlishi Supports Translation of the Netziv's Major Work for Sefaria's Online, Free-Access Library
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Targum Shlishi Supports First Interfaith Chaplaincy Training Course in Jerusalem
Grief Support for Families of Holocaust Survivors
A Selection of Recent Book Grants
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Targum Shlishi Helps Develop Library for Chabad JCC in Aspen and Creates List of Recommended Books for Jewish Libraries
The new library at the Chabad Jewish Community Center in Aspen, Colorado, is the only Jewish library between Denver and Salt Lake City, according to Rabbi Mendel Mintz, who founded…
Targum Shlishi Encourages and Supports Major Book on Rabbi Shagar's Philosophy
"The integration of heart and mind, soul and intellect, within the context of our tradition has often escaped me…this search led me to the work of Rabbi Shagar, and his work…
Targum Shlishi Supports Book Projects Ranging from Jewish-American History to Elie Wiesel's Teaching to Navigating Grief
Several authors and/or publishers have received support from Targum Shlishi in the past several months, as part of the foundation's core commitment to education and knowledge exchange. The foundation's funding…
Targum Shlishi Supports the Hartman Institute's i-Engage Adult Education Course in South Florida, "Jewish Values and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict"
Mazel Tov! It's a B…rand-New Website
Targum Shlishi Supports Entrepreneurship Through E-Commerce Training for Jerusalem Businesses
Targum Shlishi Supports Efforts by ZAKA to Research the Fate of the Remains if Hungarian Jews in the Danube
Targum Shlishi Awards Grants to Initiatives that Support and Empower Women
Targum Shlishi Supports Films, Books, and Educational Projects Dedicated to Holocaust Awareness
Targum Shlishi Supports Innovative Online Jewish Studies Courses
Targum Shlishi Supports Women of the Book
Grassroots Israeli Activism
Conference Explores the Teaching and Work of Rabbi Irving (Yitz) Greenberg
Designing Modern Orthodox Rabbinical Training Curriculum for Men and Women
Online Library Sefaria Revolutionizes Jewish Learning
Targum Shlishi Supports Educational Publication On Gender Theory from a Historical Jewish Perspective
Targum Shlishi Supports Research Project Investigating Ways to Foster Pro-Israel Attitudes in American College Students
Innovative Hebrew Online Learning Augments In-Class Teaching
Targum Shlishi Supports Miami-Based Cultural and Educational Projects
Targum Shlishi Supports Innovative Efforts to Address the Growing Crisis Around the Issue of Conversion in Israel
Targum Shlishi Supports Project Documenting Israel's Founders
Promoting Tolerance Across Affiliations in Israel
(Miami, December 20, 2015) - Targum Shlishi helped support the Gesher Media Course, an innovative initiative designed to build bridges and shatter stereotypes. The course brought together a group of fifteen…
Sexuality and Judaism: Targum Shlishi Supports JOFA Programs Designed to Improve Communication, Teaching and Understanding
(Miami, December 13, 2015) – Targum Shlishi is supporting two innovative programs developed by JOFA (Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance) to disseminate knowledge and foster greater understanding of the intersection between…


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Paige, thanks for all of your work on this purchase. Both of us felt it was the best and easiest real estate deal we have been a part of over 50 years of buying and selling. Your web site was impressive and most helpful because we were able to search the solds as well as the listings, which allowed us to evaluate opportunities quickly and long distance. Thanks too for your prompt responses and chasing down all of the contracts and operation details. We could not have done this without youJ Schoen
We worked with Dianne Bertini to find a condo to purchase in Steamboat. She was wonderfully informative & responsive during the entire process. We were able to find the perfect place that fit our needs & budget and we would absolutely work with Dianne again.Robin Lutz
We did not purchase property in the area; but I will say that Mr. Wade was very fast and responsive to my questions. If we moved forward with a purchase in the area, I would certainly contact him again.Julie Adrian
Jon is simply the best realtor you will find; a consummate professional who has a true passion for not only finding you the perfect home but also for Steamboat itself...Ron Contarino
Jon was awesome! He found us the perfect property! Made buying from 2,000 miles away a carefree process! Felt like we were right there.Ron & Kerry
Jon, Thank you so much for finding us the perfect home. You've really made us feel welcome in SteamboatDana, Mary & Maddie
Jon Wade was fantastic to work with. He consistently went above and beyond the call of duty. He will be a life long friend.Paul & Kristina
What can we say? It has been great working with you and getting to know you. We don't think you could have done anything better. We're looking forward to along friendship. We appreciate all you have done to make our dreams a reality.Anne & Phil
Jon and his team really made a difference for us. He and his team were great to work with, got back to us fast and Jon negotiated a great price for us as we sold our lot. $290K vs $225K for the last sale! He called us, updated us on the shift in the market and we were able to get a much better price after he sold the one that was competing with ours.G Porento
9/29/17 - We had the pleasure of working with Ryan Shattuck and Jon Wade in our recent purchase of a Downtown Loft in Steamboat Springs. My husband and I have bought and sold many income properties and have dealt with many different levels of expertise in Real Estate professionals. We were so pleasantly surprised with Ryan's knowledge of the area and his willingness to go above and beyond at every point during our transaction. His professionalism was evident from the very first meeting with him and he was incredibly prepared to answer every question that came up, as well as anticipate the information we would be considering as investors. The whole experience was flawless and Ryan couldn't have been more pleasant to spend the day with looking at properties. We appreciated his work ethic and dedication to finding us the perfect Steamboat property. It is a rare combination to find an agent who is not only sophisticated in the area of income properties but incredibly personable as well. This was by far the BEST experience we have had in 27 years of purchasing real-estate. Thank you!Elliette H
Jon Wade was an amazing help in the purchase of my home. Talk with Jon and his team if your are in the market for a new home.Glen
Jon Wade helped us find the perfect home and he made the process enjoyable and very easy. We consider Jon the best realtor in Steamboat. His knowledge, professionalism and caring attitude are some of the reasons we are so happy to work with him. Jon and his team paid attention to all the details and took the worry out of buying our home. Their web site was outstanding in searching for the exact type of home in the area we wanted to live. I would highly recommend Jon and The Steamboat GroupA. Kemps
Jon is the only realtor I've met that treats your money like it was his own.Gary
Jon is the "Go-To Guy" for Steamboat Springs real estate. He is honest, has a first rate reputation, does his homework, and was always great to work with. I highly recommend Jon as a contact for North Western Colorado real estate transactions.Rick
Jon, very much appreciate the wonderful,seamless, painless process of working with you.Larry


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Building an AMD HTPC - Capable of Blu-ray HD Audio Playback (Page 3)
Hardware selected for the Job continued
HTPC Case / Chassis
- Thermaltake DH 104 Home Theater Case
Possibly one of the finest HTPC cases we have ever seen is the Thermaltake DH 104. It isn't cheap coming in at close to $600, but you'll see why right now.
Featuring a very classy piano mirror coating with aluminum front panel design as well as built-in 7-inch touch screen on the front, it is a sight to be seen.
The built-in touch screen as you can see above is very bright and responds rather well to finger touch. It can be used as a secondary display (connects via USB and VGA) or you can install the software that comes with the DH 104.
Toward the front right of the case are a bunch of easy access controls as well as a small door which reveals audio ports, two USB ports and one FireWire 1349 port. Just one of the small touches of this case is the optical drive door which has a mechanical device in it and when you close your drive tray, it slowly closes with plenty of style.
As you can see above, Thermaltake also packs in a fairly standard IR remote control.
Audio Card (highly recommended for Blu-ray playback!)
- ASUS Xonar HDAV1.3 Deluxe
($239.99 USD at Newegg)
Again, this is not a cheap part for this HTPC system, but it is highly recommended if you are going to be using it for Blu-ray movie playback.
Currently this is the only AV card on the market which gives your PC the capability of playing back real HD audio from Blu-ray discs, just as the studio intended. That's right - the Xonar HDAV1.3 Deluxe allows your PC to bitstream DTS HD / HD-MA and Dolby TrueHD to your amplifier.
In the past, the best a PC has been able to do is downscale to DVD level audio quality. Where is the real enjoyment in that? ASUS did have some issues at first when this product was released onto the market, but with a lot of heart and dedication, ASUS has managed to get Blu-ray HD audio output working fully now and continues to make advancements to the product.
The Xonar HDAV1.3 Deluxe is bundled with a special version of ArcSoft TotalMedia Theatre Blu-ray playback software and this must be used to experience the non-downsampled 192kHz Blu-Ray audio goodness. It may later work with other playback software such as CyberLink's PowerDVD, but not at this moment. ASUS pack in all the HDMI 1.3 certified cables you need as well as an additional audio bracket (not pictured here) which allows you to output 7.1 channel analog.
Power Supply
- Thermaltake Toughpower 700-watt Cable Management
I'm never one to scrimp when it comes to power supplies and for that reason I selected the Thermaltake Toughpower 700-watt PSU with cable management for the job.
It comes with a big sized 140mm cooling fan that spins at 1900 RPM and only generates a noise level of 16 dBA according to Thermaltake and in our tests, we can say that it is basically silent. 700-watts is more power capacity than we actually need, but if you have the budget, it is always better to give yourself some headroom. You might opt for something closer to the 500 - 600-watt range which puts a few pennies back in your pocket, but we wouldn't recommend going any lower.
The other thing we love about this PSU is that it features a modular design, or "cable management" as Thermaltake likes to call it. That means we only need to plug in the power cables that we need for the system and the others can stay in the box. This means less cable clutter inside the case and that is super important when it comes to a desktop HTPC style case like the one we are using.
CPU Cooler and Cooling Fans
- Noctua NH-U12P CPU Cooler and Noctua fans
($59.99 USD at Newegg - not including fans)
For our cooling requirements for this AMD HTPC system, we turned to Noctua, who were more than happy to send on over some cooling equipment.
While for one of the processors that AMD sent us we could have got away with a passive cooling solution (no fan), we opted to use the Noctua NH-U12P CPU cooler which is capable of cooling a whole range of processors, including all AM2+ processors, which is perfect for us.
What we like about this cooler is the quiet factor - with all Noctua products, the Austrian company bundles in two acoustical noise adapters (one blue and one black). If you select the black L.N.A (Low-Noise Adapter) cable, the fan RPM is adjusted down to 1100 RPM or 16.9 dBA. And if you select the blue U.L.N.A (Ultra Low-Noise Adapter), the fan RPM is adjusted down to 900 RPM and just 12.6 dBA.
When playing around with these adapters, be sure to monitor your CPU and case temperature to make sure things are under control.
Keyboard and Mouse
- IOGEAR Long Range Media Center Desktop
I normally turn to Logitech when it comes to keyboards and mice, but this time around I opted for IOGEAR's Long Range Media Center Desktop combo, with little prior knowledge about the product before buying.
I am pleased to say that I made a good decision when buying this product. In the past, I used a Logitech wireless combo and while I was happy with the actual keyboard and mouse, the range was shocking - anything over a meter or so and the devices crapped out.
One of the big things that IOGEAR is pushing with this product is the range and on their product website they claim its 2.4G wireless bi-directional connectivity USB receiver is able to work at a range of up to 33 feet or a stunning 10 meters. After only a little testing, it was clear that this product from IOGEAR absolutely has it over the old Logitech combo I was using. It worked throughout our lounge and even out of it!
Moreover, the USB receiver is of the nano kind and is really tiny and doesn't stick out from the case much at all, as you can see above. And the Media Center (MCE) hotkeys give you quick access to My TV, My Music, My Video and My Pictures, which is obviously perfect for a HTPC system.
Other bits and pieces
Besides all the parts we have recommended over the last two pages, you will also need to have the following for real Blu-ray HD audio playback:
- All HDMI 1.3 or above cables (ASUS includes them)
- HDCP capable monitor or HDTV
- Modern amplifier / speakers capable of DTS-HD MA and TrueHD
Last updated: Jan 30, 2019 at 10:26 pm CST
PRICING: You can find products similar to this one for sale below.
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- Page 1 [Introduction]
- Page 2 [Hardware selected for the Job]
- Page 3 [Hardware selected for the Job - Continued]
- Page 4 [Test System Setup and Blu-ray CPU Usage]
- Page 5 [Benchmarks - PCMark Vantage 64-bit]
- Page 6 [Benchmarks - 3DMark Vantage]
- Page 7 [Benchmarks - Super PI]
- Page 8 [Benchmarks - CINEBENCH R10 64-bit]
- Page 9 [Power Consumption Testing]
- Page 10 [Total Cost and Final Thoughts]


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GamePhase is a three-man game studio that started in 2012 and is based in Finland and Sweden.
We are:
Mikael "Mick" Norrgård: programming
Mats "Maz" Norrgård: music
Thomas "Bahototh" Finholm: graphics
We are three people excited about designing quality games. We have a few projects coming up, the main project at the moment being Thy Sword – a hack n' slash platformer with roguelike elements.
Contact us at:
mick (a) gamephase.net (http://www.witchmastercreations.com)
maz (a) gamephase.net (http://matsnorrgard.bandcamp.com)
thomp (a) gamephase.net (http://bahototh.blogspot.fi/)


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Our Guest houses
With an emphasis on comfort, Ornos Blue guest houses take full advantage of Mykonos' architecture and present an atmosphere of simplicity and purity. Small decorative elements blend harmoniously with the wrought iron beds and carefully selected furniture that creates a homey ambience.
The comfortable, white sofas in combination with the stunning patios on the ground floor, as well as the marble tables on the verandas, compose the setting for an unforgettable summer holiday.
Thriving plants decorate the guest houses' outdoor areas, where guests can enjoy refreshing drinks in the evenings as they relax in the characteristic Cycladic summer breeze.
Luxury services with discretion and attention to detail.
Your stay at Ornos Blue in Mykonos will highlight the finest aspects of island hospitality, with tailor-made, individualised services that surpass your expectations.
Services include:
- Individually Controlled Air Condition
- Bath Amenities
- Bathroom with Bathtub or Shower
- Cable-Satellite TV
- Central Heating
- Closet
- Coffee Facilities
- Daily Maid Service
- Dining Table
- Flat Screen TV
- Full-length Mirror
- Fully equipped kitchenette
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi
- Kitchenette
- Modern Furnishing
- Non-smoking rooms available
- Private Balcony or Terrace
- Refrigerator
- Sea view
- Sitting Area
- Sofa Bed
- Writing Desk


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About Joey Galon Atelier
After graduating with a B.A. Degree in Fashion & Textiles design in San Francisco and Business Administration at San Diego State, Mr. Galon began his creative career in marketing, public relations & special events in the fashion industry, producing high profile fashion shows which allowed him the opportunity to establish new product launches, public relations, design sets, choreograph shows and work exclusively with top couture designers and their collections, including many well known super models. In addition to fashion show presentations, Mr. Galon contributed his creative eye doing visual displays and event planning for such renown retail companies as I.Magnin, Neiman Marcus & Armani.
He is known for contributing vast amounts of energy, creativity and talent toward the success of events such as Macy's Passport Fashion Show, Sausilito Art Festival and has worked exclusively on esteemed companies such as Bob Mackie Fashions, Thierry Mugler, Oscar de la Renta, Hubert de Givenchy(with the late Audrey Hepburn), San Francisco Opera & Ballet Fashion shows, De Young Museum & Asian Art Museum featuring various haute couture designers.
Combining his educational and professional career with fashion, Mr. Galon has been an avid beauty pageant aficionado. He started as staff member with pageants in the early 80's with Miss Philippines(Binibining Pilpinas USA) USA Pageant, a preliminary to the Miss Philippines Universe, World & International Pageant in Manila, Philippines. He designed his first pageant gowns in 1983, which was the catalyst to study fashion design in college. He has since been Executive Director for local pageants in the Miss America program, worked as staff member for Miss USA, Miss Universe, coached countless pageant delegates and has judged numerous pageants across the country. 20+ years in fashion and with pageant involvements, plus 20+ years in personal development and public speaking has lead him to open an additional business called "Runway for Life", a personal development, pageant coaching and wardrobe styling organization.
Joey Galon Atelier was officially launched at Miss USA 2010 in Las Vegas, showcasing his collections to the pageant world.


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This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. The author will be awarding a $25 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Then one day, Steven finds a little girl lying unconscious, perilously close to the woods. As the two get to know one another, Steven experiences real friendship for the first time—and gets closer than ever to knowing the darkness that skulks between the trees.
He dedicates himself to keeping his new friend safe, but the tranquility of their fragile hidden world doesn't last long. When an act of cruelty pushes Steven to his limits, his secrets—and those of the dark woods—come close to unraveling, threatening to destroy the one thing making his teenage life bearable. Can Steven save everything he's built from crumbling under the pressure?
Enjoy an exclusive excerpt:
When Steven reached the bottom of the tree, he crossed the clearing slowly, keeping an eye on the woods. Right at the edge of the creek, he stopped and looked around. The trees swayed in the wind as they always did. Steven shuddered. He wouldn't be able to enter the woods without crossing the creek. He took a deep breath and slid himself down the bank, careful not to slip on the rocks. He chose the shallowest section of the creek and crossed it in two big leaps. His shoes got a little wet, but he wasn't too concerned. What bothered him was his proximity to the woods. If his momma's spy reached a hand out from behind the tree in front of him, he could easily grab Steven by the front of his shirt, and that would be the end of him.
He stood watching the tree line and the darkness beyond for a few minutes. All this chivalry had made his throat dry. He pulled out his water bottle from the side pocket of his backpack and as he took a huge gulp, he noticed a pair of red dots in the woods. Steven's heartbeat sped up and his armpits grew sticky and wet. His forehead leaked sweat and he wiped it with a shoulder, sliding the water bottle back into his backpack.
He didn't take his eyes off the two ominous dots. But when the bright red dots blinked in the dark, Steven screamed, turned around, and ran. He stopped screaming when he had crossed the broken bridge, but he didn't stop running until he was at Sandy's front door. Sweat coated every inch of his skin when he pressed the doorbell, panting and holding his knees. A minute later, a slim young woman opened the door. She had a big smile and red lips, and wore a black uniform. Her skin looked flawless under an inch of makeup. It had to be Nanny Gwen.
"Hello. Can I help you?" she asked Steven kindly.
"Hi, my name is Steven. I'm Sandy's friend. May I see her, please?" he asked, still gasping for air.
"Of course. Why don't you come inside while I get her?" Another pretty smile before she turned around.
"Thank you, ma'am," he said and stepped inside a vast hall decorated in Victorian style. The air inside was cool and smelled like lavender. Pictures of Sandy, her parents, and grandparents lined the wall in thick, rich frames. A minute later, she came running down the winding stairs, her hand sliding along the wooden banister, and he was relieved.
"Steven? What happened?..."
About the Author:
Rosemary lives in a small town in Malaysia and travels as often as possible to broaden her cultural horizon.
Buy the book at Amazon (Free on June 21-23).
a Rafflecopter giveaway


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Q: My new job requires that I have my pay directly deposited into a bank account. I'm 19 and have never had a bank account. I only wish to save my money as much as possible. I want a bank with a decent interest rate that won't charge me a lot of fees I don't understand.
A: You may find that you actually want two bank accounts: a checking account to handle your pay coming in and any expenses you have going out, and a savings account to help you accumulate money and earn interest.
Focusing first on the checking account, there are three major categories of fees you need to look out for: monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees and ATM fees. If you play your cards right, it is possible to have a checking account without paying any of these fees. Here are some tips on avoiding those fees:
- Shop around for free checking. When banks refer to "free checking," they mean an account with no monthly maintenance fee. Avoiding these fees is significant, because on average they run to nearly $150 a year. The latest MoneyRates.com Bank Fee Survey found that only about three out of every 10 checking accounts has no monthly maintenance fees, which means they are in the minority, but can be found if you shop around.
- Consider an online bank. That same fee survey found that your chances of getting free checking more than double if you look at online banks.
- Opt out of overdraft protection. At an average of $31.60 per occurrence, overdraft fees are expensive and unnecessary. Opt out of overdraft protection and learn good record-keeping habits so you don't overdraw your account.
- Choose a bank whose ATM network matches your travels. Make sure ATM locations are convenient enough for you to avoid incurring fees for using out-of-network machines.
While a checking account will give you ready access to your money, savings accounts and money market accounts are better equipped to help you meet your goal of saving money, so you might want to open one of these in addition to your checking account. Chances are, you'll find that checking accounts offer a negligible amount of interest, if any at all. Interest rates on savings accounts and money market accounts aren't great these days, but you can find rates close to 1 percent if you shop around -- and once again, be sure to consider online banks, because these typically offer higher savings and money market rates.
Finally, while it can be convenient to do all of your banking with one institution, don't be afraid to choose separate banks for checking and saving if you find distinctly better deals for each at different banks.
Got a financial question about saving, investing or banking? MoneyRates.com invites you to submit your questions to its "Ask the Expert" feature. Just go to the MoneyRates.com home page and look for the "Ask the Expert" box on the lower left.


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Ashmore Large Corner Group inc stool
Product Description
The Ashmore corner group offers 6 different options combining a mixture of stools, armless sections and pieces with an arm. It can be right or left hand facing, coming in a choice of 4 colours with light wooden feet.
DeliveryWe offer a free delivery on all orders over £150 in a 50 mile radius. There are certain products we can send further (due to our suppliers doing a direct home delivery service) and on large orders we can discuss whether it would be possible for us to do. All our own deliveries are by our trusted team, and where possible and practical all items are unpacked and inspected in our warehouse prior to delivery.
Ashmore Corner Sofa
Home Delivery
UK mainland delivery from FREE check delivery cost
Collect in Store
This item is available for collection.
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Sophia Dress - Deep Purple - Last One - Size 24
$197.50 $395.00
Bust 100-106cm
Waist 80-86cm
Hip 106-112cm
Bust 106-112
Waist 86-92
Hip 108-124
Bust 112-118
Waist 92-98
Hip 118-124
Bust 118-125
Waist 98-105
Hip 124-131
Bust 125-132
Waist 105-112
Hip 131-138
Bust 132-139
Waist 112-119
Hip 138-145
NZ delivery - 1-3 working day delivery (includes tracking and insurance) Australia delivery - 2-4 working days (includes tracking and insurance)
Rest of the world - 3-7 days (includes tracking and insurance)
Cost for shipping when spending under $250
Delivery times are an approximate guide only. Please contact us if you would like your item to be place on priority shipping, at your cost.
When buying online please don't hesitate to ask any questions, we are more than happy to help. Email firstname.lastname@example.com or call 02108400570
We try our best to provide the most accurate descriptions, images and colour representation for all of our garments should you require a colour swatch or have further questions about the details of a particular garment, just ask.
Orders placed with Lost and Led Astray will be processed within standard working hours Monday to Friday New Zealand time. Any orders received outside of these times will be processed on the next working day. Processing of your order may take up to 48 working hours. Shipping estimates are additional to this processing time. We will email you confirmation and your tracking number once your order has been dispatched.
Please provide a physical address where a delivery can be signed for between 9am and 5pm Delivery cannot be made to a PO Box. Please note that any local taxes and duties are the responsibility of the purchaser. Lost and led Astray takes no responsibility for any delay in the processing of your purchase should local taxes or duties be applied.
Hassel Free Returns and Refunds
I want to make this easy for you, I have no problem at all exchanging or refunding any item including sale items if contact is made with in 10 days of the purchase date, items must be in original condition with tags attached.
Return Address
Lost and Led Astray
482 karangahape rd
Auckland 1010
When returning an item I recommend send it with tracking, Lost and Led Astray is not liable for the loss of items being returned. The refund will be put through once the item is received.
Faulty Items
I am truly sorry if a fault is found. Please contact me @ firstname.lastname@example.com as soon as you can so that I can endeavor to find a solution.
Such a cute dress! This eazy wear dress is made out of a lovely light weight viscose, that isn't see through. Coming in four colour ways, the beautiful Moss Green, a deep purple shade of navy, the lovely Amethyst print and of course black!
Sorry I didn't have a sample in the Deep Purple at the time of the shoot. The Deep Purple is a new shade of navy I've found. I just love it. so lovely for people who love navy. The navy with a purple hue to it.
The cross over yoke, is a great modern look, with the gather detail under the bust giving great shape and detail to the dress.
The bat wing sleeve mean it will fit many arm sizes but is close to the body so there isn't excess fabric.
Im really excited this dress has arrived, its going to be perfect for up coming events. november is already book out for me.
let me know if you have any questions.
SJ x


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Established in 1999 in our spare room (how far away this seems now), we are a family business that has grown year on year. We were one of the first companys to Start printing tablecloth and came from an exhibition background.
Our clients range from Universities, schools & colleges to multi-national PLC's and Premier League football clubs. We are very proud that many of our customers have been with us from the very start.
We have always been committed to providing a good quality product at a competitive price with friendly and helpful service.


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NFL Dog Hoodie Cleveland Browns
Every product has it's own size chart which can be FOUND IN THE SECONDARY PHOTOS (under the main photo) on each item or in the description of the product.No two size charts are exactly the same! A small on one size chart might be a medium on another size chart. For this reason, we ask that you measure your dog and refer to the size chart on each item in your order to ensure that you will receive a product that fits. Below is a guide to help you measure your dog. If you require assistance, please CONTACT US. We are happy to help!
*For collars, if there is no size chart then it is reasonable to assume that the size of the item will refer to the length measurement (except for a dog harness, in which case the chest measurement would be the size).
**All sizes for clothing are based mainly on chest girth. The chest measurement is critical, especially in larger breeds who have a much deeper chest. Please go one size larger for dogs with very thick fur or if your dogs size is on the border limit.
To determine the proper size for your dog, measure your dog's neck, chest and back with a soft tape-measure following the instructions below.
1. Neck girth is taken by measuring the circumference of the neck (where the collar sits). Measure closely around the neck and do not include space for fingers.
2. Back length is measured from the base of your pet's neck (where the collar sits) to the base of the tail. When measuring the back length it is very important that the pet is standing in normal position.
3. Chest girth is taken from the widest part of the pet's chest, usually behind the front legs. Measure closely all the way around the chest.
*** If you don't have a paper tape measure handy but you do have a printer, CLICK HERE!
Classic sport dog hoodie design in athletic grey. High quality soft and thick, warm fleece. Drawstrings and reflective safety stripe on the hood (helmet style.) Raglan sleeves. Leash hole in the back for easy harness/leash attachment. NFL team logo screen print. Washable!
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
Licensed and manufactured by Little Earth Productions.
No two dogs are created equal, neither are size charts! Please refer to the size chart to ensure the perfect fit.


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Affordable Heating & Air Conditioning has earned a reputation for outstanding new air conditioner installation service—and for good reason. We've performed thousands of installations throughout the Milwaukee area, and are known for professional, friendly service that gets the job done correctly and on schedule.
Our customers know it's not just about the installation—they trust us for excellent service from start to finish. There are lots of little things that can make a big difference in how your air conditioner functions and your overall experience, including:
- Accurate system sizing
- Properly fit and secured connections
- Testing every new system
- Taking the time to explain how it works
- Cleaning up after ourselves—you'll barely know we were there
- Recommending promotions and financing options when available
Our Installation Service Keeps Customers Coming Back
Our cooling pros start by listening to your comfort concerns and needs, then
recommend and install Bryant® systems—the same ones we trust in the homes of our friends and family. They're impressively energy-efficient and known for outlasting most other brands. We're a Factory Authorized Dealer, but we're not in this business to make a sale—we're here to keep you safe and comfortable at home. Just ask one of our customers—they'll tell you we consistently outperform the competition.
Protect Your New Air Conditioner With Preventive Maintenance
It's smart to protect your new investment with routine maintenance. It's a surefire way to:
- Help your A/C operate at peak efficiency for longer
- Prevent breakdowns and the need for costly repairs
- Ensure your system reaches or surpasses its estimated lifespan
- Improve your indoor air quality by keeping your system clean
Whether you need an air conditioner installed—or want to learn about a ductless split system for spot cooling—count on the neighborly HVAC experts at Affordable Heating—call 414-481-2727 or contact us online for help.


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Dr. Emily R Hawken is a neuroscientist, and is currently a Canadian Institute of Health Research Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Biomedical and Molecular Science at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario. Her research focuses on the mechanisms of GABA neuroplasticity and its role in learning and memory.
Mainstream science generally adheres to the metaphysical assumption of "materialism", the claim that matter is the only reality and that anything nonphysical is not real...Full Synopsis


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The devastation in Japan has taken the world by surprise, so much so that other stories got buried. For instance, The Financial Times reported that China has officially surpassed the U.S. as the global manufacturing leader, ending America's 110-year reign. I wasn't necessarily surprised that this happened – in fact, we've been hearing projections about thisfor years, but it's still a tough pill to swallow.
Furthermore, where are the pundits and the politicians screaming about the end of days for the U.S. economy? While alarmists may be concerned about the future of the U.S. manufacturing sector, we have to remind ourselves that we are a service-based economy. China is in the throes of mass-industrialization, so yes, they will manufacture a lot of things (and we will continue to buy them).
Read the whole article at SeekingAlpha.
Advisors, Portfolio Managers and active investors can use HiddenLevers to make investing decisions based on their view of manufacturing indicators, or dozens of other economic trends. Try it free for 30 days.
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Recently produced promotional video for young bluegrass artists: "Cats and the Fiddler"
Welcome to MLH Media
MLH Media is an independent script to screen production company. From Features to Shorts, Promotional films to Commercial - Industrial fare our goal is to produce the best possible film within the budgetary restrains of any given project. Please enjoy browsing through our site and the many video clips of our current and past productions. MLH Media is a privately own company under the direction of Filmmaker, Writer, Actor Michael L Harris.


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Brandon Township Meeting, Monday, September 16, 2013
Brandon Township Meeting Minutes
Sept. 16, 2013
The September monthly meeting was held on September 16, 2013 at the Brandon Community Center with Paul Lauthen, Gaylin Croonquist, Gene Fynboh, Mike Cleary and Adrian Ledermann present. The meeting was called to order by Lauthen at 7:00 p.m. The pledge of allegiance was recited.
Clerks Report: The minutes of the August 19th meeting were addressed. The reading of the minutes were waved and then approved on a motion by Fynboh, seconded by Croonquist, and carried.
Treasurer's Report: Beginning balance on 08/01/2013 was $41,798.27. Receipts included: 1st half additional property taxes-$1,037.12, Brandon Residents chloride reimburse-$3.990.00 and interest from Revenue on account at Bremer- $.41. Orders issued were $5,880.63 for a total ending balance of $ 40,945.17. Investments reported included Tar & Road Fund received $4.87 in interest, to now total $197,584.01. On a motion by Croonquist, seconded by Fynboh, and carried, the treasurer's report was approved.
Public Comment: One visitor present with no comments.
Agenda Approval: The agenda was approved on a motion by Fynboh, seconded by Croonquist, and carried.
Old Business:
a. Road report: Croonquist has been grading roads since the last rain, thanked for going out on Sunday and Labor Day. Roads look good. Some roads will need some edge trimming next spring. Board will need to look at spraying for small trees next spring, along with concern for some larger trees needing to be removed along with the stumps to allow for mowing. Several road areas were mentioned to be watched for needed grading. Mowing will be completed this week. Board ok'd mowing for Bracey's off of Walleye Rd; clerk will send bill for $25.00. Chloride payments still coming in; clerk will send second billing to seven residents who have not paid yet.
b. Weed letter has not been sent, clerk will alert residents along Sven Ln next spring.
New Business:
a. No land use permits were received
b. Informal requests for black topping of some roads was discussed. Board will look at updating present policy to address formal petitions, costs allocations, etc. Board will also look at developing a policy for addressing costs of maintaining or resurfacing paved roads already in existence. As a first step, Clerk will do some research on policies at MAT and other townships in Douglas County.
c. Lucky's Propane agreement. Board approved propane purchase agreement of 800 gallons for 2013-14 season at rate not to exceed $1.49 per gallon.
d. Chloride policy: Board will look at updating present policy to look at requests from multiple residents along road and whether to add to special assessments.
Claims and Wages: Claims included: City of Brandon-$58.55 for water/sewer; Otter Tail Power-$24.44 for shop electricity; Michael Cleary-$11.20 for office supplies; and $3,055.00 for wages and salaries. Claims and wages were ordered paid on a motion by Lauthen, seconded by Croonquist and carried.
Date and place of next meetings:
October monthly meeting: Monday, October 21, 2013, 7 pm at Brandon Community Center
The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 pm on a motion by Fynboh seconded by Croonquist, and carried.
Adrian Ledermann, clerk


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How Do You Become a Great Artist? Do It Wrong.
Cartoonists, writers, musicians, actors, filmmakers, we all get the same questions. And we all have boring, stock answers like 'draw every day' or 'practice a lot'. Sometimes it's because we don't know what we did right. But the real reason is that every bit of advice we give you has an expiration date. The world of art is always changing. The things people like, the way those things are distributed and sold is always changing. By the time you put in all that practice to get good at what someone else told you is the way things are done, they aren't done that way any more. The only sure way to become great at what you do is to break the rules. Not for the sake of being a rebel, but so that you can make something only you can make, in a way only you can make it. If you do something wrong well enough, it becomes the new right. So here are 5 steps in the right way to do it wrong.
STEP 1: Practice
To become a good artist:
Focus on making perfect art. Don't show weakness. Use the tools that everyone else recommends. If you can't draw hands, put them in pockets. If you can't draw feet, crop them off the page. If you're not very good at an instrument, play something easier. If you're not knowledgable in a subject, write about something else.
To become a great artist:
Just make a bunch of crappy art. Do things wrong. Trust me, even the art you think is great, give it a few years and you'll think it's crap. So you might as well shoot for the moon. Grab tools that no one else has ever even imagined using, and see what happens. Draw everyone on horses even though you know the legs are going to come out all weird. Perform that long, flowery monologue you know you're going to forget the words to. Film that science fiction epic even though the only creature effects you can afford are sticking Halloween stuff on your cat. Doing things you know you can't do well so that you can do them later is the whole idea behind exercise....
Please join StudyMode to read the full document


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Professional Golfer
Hey everyone! My name is Armana and I am 28 years old and from Omaha, Nebraska. Growing up I played all kinds of sports before falling into golf just before high school. It took a few years of competition in high school but by my senior year I became the Class A State Champion. I then decided to stay in Nebraska for college and competed for Creighton University and University of Nebraska-Omaha.
In 2016, I decided to turn pro after careful planning and decision making. I really wanted to be sure that this was not only what I wanted but felt attainable. My first year as a pro, I finished 11th on the Cactus Tour money list. Last year in 2018 I added playing in LPGA Monday Qualifiers to my schedule. After playin in three qualifiers, I missed qualifying at each site by two strokes. I returned to LPGA Qualifying School and ended up with partial status on the Symetra Tour, the LPGA's developmental tour. So for the 2019 season, I have a full schedule with events from the Cactus Tour, WAPT, Symetra Tour and LPGA Monday Qualifiers. It should be a busy year!
Besides competing, I like to volunteer with the LPGA Girls Golf program when I'm available. I truly believe that in order to grow the game we not only need to focus on making the game fun for youth but for girls. Through the program, friends and social media I've made some wonderful connections with girls who are learning to love the game like I do. I also like to workout and train. It's not something I used to love but when done the right way and with the right trainer, it has changed my game for the better. I am also the co-owner, with Anna DePalma, of the blog Graceful Golfer. Graceful Golfer is a golf and lifestyle blog aimed at inspiring people to pick up the game and promote golf.
On my team this year, I already have some amazing sponsors that I'm truly happy to be working with. Thank you Nike Golf, Callaway Golf, OnCore Golf Ball and Forelinx. You're support is crucial to me working towards my ultimate goal of competing on the LPGA.
Make sure to follow my journey on social media! Thank you for your support!
Pro & Am Golf
United States
I've had success in my amateur career and working towards success in my professional career. I turned professional January 2016.
- 2007 NE Class A State Champion
- 2008 Nebraska Girls Match Play Champion
- 2008 Nebraska Junior Amateur of the Year
- 2009-2011: 2 Individual Medalist Finishes for University of Nebraska-Omaha
- Currently, 2nd at Nebraska-Omaha for low career scoring average
- Nebraska-Omaha All Time Letter Winner
- Finished 11th on the 2016 Cactus Tour Money List
- Set new personal tournament low with -7 at Las Colinas in Queen Creek, AZ May 2016
- 4 Top 5 finishes and 10 Top 10 Finishes on the Cactus Tour in 2016
- 2 Top 5 Finishes and 3 Top 10 finishes on the Cactus Tour in 2017
- 3 LPGA Monday Qualifiers in 2018 - Missed Qualifying by 2 Strokes in Each
- -1 3-Day Total at the Arizona Women's Open 2018
While playing on the LPGA is my goal, it's an expensive one. If you like my story and feel like you want to be a supporter of my journey, pick a photo from below and choose a donation amount. I'll send you the signed 5" x 7" photo along with a personal thank you note. 25% of all donations will be sent to the LPGA Girls Golf program to continue to help inspire young girls to pick up the game of golf. The rest of the donations will go towards my tournament and travel expenses.
Golf Cart$10.00 – $150.00
Swing Finish$10.00 – $150.00
Swing Pose$10.00 – $150.00
Stairs$10.00 – $150.00


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Firmament Team
Christopher Smith
Co-Founder & President
Christopher D. Smith is the Co-Founder and President of The Firmament Group and leads Firmament's investment efforts. Since 1999, Mr. Smith has focused exclusively on direct lending and flexible credit solutions in the lower-middle market, and has participated in the growth and maturation of the asset class.
From 1999 to 2012, Mr. Smith was an investment professional at GarMark Partners, one of the longest tenured managers of private junior capital in North America. As a principal and member of the investment committee at GarMark, Mr. Smith participated in an investment strategy focused on generating both current income and capital appreciation. Prior to joining GarMark in 1999, Mr. Smith worked at PaineWebber Inc. in the Investment Banking Division. Mr. Smith focused on the transportation and defense industries in the industrial group, and began his career in the equity capital markets group focusing on initial public offerings and follow-on equity offerings.
Mr. Smith received his B.S. from Georgetown University, where he completed a double major in finance and international business, and played varsity football. Mr. Smith also studied comparative business policy and international finance at Oxford University's Trinity College. Mr. Smith has served on creditor committees and numerous boards of directors, including Satellite Tracking of People, Smart Tuition, Tire Group International, Denali Water Solutions, and Wastewater Specialties.
Franklin McLarty
Co-Founder & Chairman
Franklin McLarty is the Co-Founder and Chairman of The Firmament Group and leads Firmament's strategic growth initiatives. Mr. McLarty has extensive experience as an operator and investor across various industries including transportation, real estate, reinsurance and finance.
From 2005-2015 Mr. McLarty was a founding executive of RML Automotive. Mr. McLarty was directly involved in all aspects of the company's growth from a single dealership to one of the nation's largest auto retailers with over $1.6 billion in annual revenue. McLarty was CEO of RML from 2012 to 2015. In 2016 Mr. McLarty was the lead investor in collaborating with Matt Bowers to establish the Southern United Automotive Group, a growing automotive retail platform focused on the southeastern U.S.
In 2012, Mr. McLarty co-founded Caprocq, a real estate investment firm with properties located across the central United States. In 2007, Mr. McLarty was appointed by then Governor Mike Beebe to the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. As commissioner he helped oversee the State's bond guarantee program and the associated portfolio companies. He served as chairman of the commission in 2009. Earlier in his career, he worked in hotel related private equity with McKibbon Hotel Group and The Seaway Group where he led the sale of over $185 million in hotel assets.
Mr. McLarty received his B.A. from the University of Richmond and MBA from the University of Miami with a concentration in international business. Mr. McLarty has served on numerous advisory boards and boards of directors including PAM Transportation, Tire Group International, Palo Verde Holdings, The Markham Group, The McLarty Companies and The Seaway Group. Mr. McLarty was executive producer of the award-winning documentary Warrior Champions: From Baghdad to Beijing. Mr. McLarty also sits on the Vital Voices Solidarity Council.
Mack McLarty
Non-Executive Chairman
Mack McLarty is the Non-Executive Chairman of The Firmament Group. He is also Chairman of McLarty Associates, an international strategic advisory firm based in Washington D.C., and Chairman of the McLarty Companies, a fourth-generation, family-owned transportation business. The McLarty Companies' activities include RML Automotive, which is the largest minority-owned automotive dealer group in the country.
Previously, he spent a decade as Chairman and CEO of Arkla, a Fortune 500 natural gas company. Under his leadership, Arkla grew to be the largest natural gas distributor in the United States, with more than two million customers in 11 states, and won recognition for management excellence, environmental initiatives and minority enterprise development.
Mr. McLarty served in the White House under President Clinton in several key positions: Chief of Staff, Counselor to the President and Special Envoy for the Americas, with over five years of service in the President's Cabinet and on the National Economic Council. In recognition of his work, Mr. McLarty was awarded the Secretary of State's Distinguished Service Medal.
Mr. McLarty also worked with President Carter as a member of the Democratic National Committee, was appointed to the National Petroleum Council and the National Council on Environmental Quality by President George H.W. Bush, and served on the St. Louis Federal Reserve Board from 1989 until joining the Clinton Administration in 1992.
Mr. McLarty is active on a variety of corporate and nonprofit boards, including Union Pacific and the Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund. In addition, he serves as a Senior International Fellow at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. He is also an active member of the Council on Foreign Relations. A summa cum laude graduate of the University of Arkansas, Mr. McLarty was awarded an honorary doctorate from his alma mater in 2000.
Parris Boyd
Parris Boyd is a Principal of The Firmament Group and a member of the Investment Committee. Mr. Boyd is responsible for leading the firm's origination efforts, executing transactions, and advising management teams of the firm's portfolio companies. Mr. Boyd currently serves on the Board of Directors of Vision Integrated Partners and Destination Pet.
Mr. Boyd has been an investor and advisor in a wide range of industries since 2002. Prior to his role at The Firmament Group, Mr. Boyd advised a variety of small businesses on operational restructuring and fundraising and served as an investment professional at GarMark Partners, where he worked with Mr. Smith. As a member of the investment team at GarMark, Mr. Boyd sourced, led and successfully exited several private debt and equity investments in the business services, education and consumer products industries. Previously, Mr. Boyd worked at American Capital, Ltd. in the Leveraged Buyout Group. During his time at American Capital, Mr. Boyd executed and oversaw a portfolio of control equity investments in a wide variety of lower-middle market businesses and industries. Mr. Boyd began his career in Investment Banking at Jackson Securities and Wachovia Securities, where he focused on equity research and advising small businesses on mergers & acquisitions and private placements.
Mr. Boyd received his B.A. from Clark Atlanta University, where he completed a major in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance.
Lisa Moraglia
Lisa Moraglia is a Principal at The Firmament Group, where she is focused on the Fund's marketing and investment activities. Over the past two decades, Ms. Moraglia has focused on making senior debt investments in companies ranging from large publicly-traded companies to small, private-equity-owned businesses. Prior to joining Firmament, Ms. Moraglia was a Principal at Small Business Community Capital, an Impact SBIC fund, where she was responsible for identifying, structuring and executing new deal opportunities and was a member of the Investment Committee. Previously, Ms. Moraglia was a Vice President in the middle market CLO group at Ares Management LLC, where she focused on underwriting and portfolio management for middle market companies in a variety of industries including Retail, Food, Home Building Products and Business Services. Prior to Ares, Ms. Moraglia worked for several foreign banks that maintained a U.S. presence, where she evaluated and executed on syndicated and bi-lateral financing opportunities for multi-national corporations.
Ms. Moraglia received her B.A. from Fordham University, where she earned a degree in Italian Literature.
Tedmond Wong
Tedmond Y. Wong is a Principal at The Firmament Group, where he is involved in all aspects of the firm's investment activities. Mr. Wong is responsible for transaction execution, the firm's international expansion efforts, and recruitment and training of junior investment professionals. Mr. Wong currently serves on the Board of Directors for Denali Water Solutions, Logistyx Technologies, and Transferre Technologies.
Mr. Wong began his career in private equity as an analyst at Wasserstein & Co., where he evaluated middle market buyout opportunities in the domestic consumer products and media sectors. Mr. Wong has also spent time in the capital markets group of the law firm Herbert Smith LLP in London. In addition, Mr. Wong brings operational and fundraising experience from leadership and advisory roles at small businesses in the talent agency and manufacturing industries.
Mr. Wong holds an MBA, with a concentration in finance, from The Wharton School where he served as Co-Chair of the Wharton Restructuring & Distressed Investing Conference. Mr. Wong also holds a J.D. from Penn Law School, where he served as an editor of the Penn Law Review. Mr. Wong received his B.A. cum laude in economics from Harvard University.
Marion Bernard
Principal - UK Managing Director
Marion A. Bernard is a Principal at The Firmament Group, where she is involved in all aspects of the Fund's investment activity with a particular focus on building business across the UK and Europe.
Since 1993, Ms. Bernard has been funding small and medium sized enterprises in the UK with both debt and equity capital. She began her career with Barclays Bank plc, where she worked in the City Corporate Group and the Acquisition Finance teams, before moving to work for 3i plc between 1997 and 2003, where she was involved in a range of deals covering buyouts, growth capital and venture capital. Marion led The Recycling Fund for Impax Asset Management between 2003 and 2005, before joining NorthStar Ventures as CEO where between 2005 and 2011 she led the successful development of this pre-eminent regional fund management business, focused on making long-term investments in small and medium sized enterprises across the North East and Yorkshire markets.
Between 2011 and 2017, Ms Bernard played a key role in establishing BGF as the largest UK growth capital provider. As Regional Director for London and the South East, Ms. Bernard was responsible for 39 investments totaling £250m, with 6 successful exits to date – Acro Aircraft, Statesman Travel, Unruly Media, The Exchange Lab, Plastique, and Molecular Products. She served as a member of the national Executive Committee, Ventures Operating Board, and all Investment Committees since BGF was launched in 2011, and was on the Board of Directors for Unruly, Statesman and The Consulting Consortium.
Ms. Bernard graduated with a B.A. (Hons) in Economics from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne where she also played field hockey. She is an associate member of the chartered institute of bankers (ACIB) and is authorized by the FCA.
In addition to her role at The Firmament Group, Ms Bernard is an independent director to the UK Innovation and Science Seed Fund's advisory Board, an early stage venture capital fund building and growing technology companies stemming from the UK's research base. She also chairs an Investment Committee for The Community Investment Enterprise Facility, established by Big Society Capital to support Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs) across the UK.
Blake Chandler
Operating Partner
Blake Chandler is an Operating Partner at The Firmament Group, and the interim Chief Financial Officer at Southern United Automotive Group. He has spent almost 20 years in various finance and accounting roles with both public firms and private companies. Before joining Firmament, Mr. Chandler was a Business Advisory partner at HoganTaylor, a regional public accounting firm headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma. While at HoganTaylor, Mr. Chandler provided small business clients with consulting services related to buy-sale transactions, financial reporting, accounting processes and tax planning. Mr. Chandler began his career with Arthur Andersen in its audit group where he worked on both small, closely-held private businesses and large publicly traded companies. He also worked for five years at a Fortune 500 telecommunications company where he served as the Director of Corporate Accounting and Financial Planning. Mr. Chandler's experience encompasses a broad range of industries including automotive retail, commercial construction, manufacturing, health care, telecommunications and real estate.
Mr. Chandler is a graduate of The University of Arkansas where he was a double major in Accounting and Finance.
Lauren Steel
Vice President
Lauren Slabaugh Steel is a Vice President at The Firmament Group, where she is responsible for business development and investment activities, as well as capital formation. Mrs. Steel currently serves on the Board of Directors of Vision Integrated Partners and the Baptist Health Foundation.
Prior to joining Firmament, Mrs. Steel spent seven years at Stephens Inc., a privately-owned investment bank focused on small and middle market companies. At Stephens, Mrs. Steel served as an Equity Research Analyst covering Internet Technology as well as Mortgage & Real Estate Services. Mrs. Steel spent three years in corporate finance focusing on private equity capital raises, follow-on equity offerings and M&A transactions in the financial services, consumer and power technology industries, and also spent a year in institutional equity sales covering Western Europe and the Southwestern US.
Mrs. Steel holds a master's degree in Local Economic Development from the London School of Economics and Political Science, where she completed her dissertation on access to capital markets for small and medium-sized businesses. Mrs. Steel received her B.S. summa cum laude from the Sam. M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas with a degree in International Finance.
Brian Peters
Vice President
Brian L. Peters is a Vice President at The Firmament Group, where he is responsible for business development and investment activities, as well as the firm's recruiting efforts. Prior to joining Firmament, Mr. Peters was an Associate at Fortress Investment Group in the Transportation and Infrastructure practice, where he evaluated buyout and investment opportunities in the rail and energy sectors. Mr. Peters began his career as an Analyst in the Transportation and Logistics group at Stifel Nicolaus, where he focused on mergers and acquisitions, debt and equity financings, and other strategic advisory initiatives for middle market companies.
Mr. Peters holds a B.A. in Economics from Johns Hopkins University, where he graduated with honors, and served as the captain of the varsity football team.
Peter Strome
Vice President
Peter A. Strome is a Vice President at The Firmament Group. Prior to joining Firmament, Mr. Strome was an Analyst in the Diversified Industrials group at Stifel Nicolaus, where he focused on mergers and acquisitions, debt and equity financings and other strategic advisory initiatives for middle market companies. Mr. Strome currently serves on the Board of Directors for PRISM Spectrum Holdings and the Board of Advisors for Blue Jays Unlimited, the development and networking organization of Johns Hopkins University Athletics.
Mr. Strome holds a B.A. in Economics from Johns Hopkins University, where he graduated with honors.
Green Campbell
Christopher "Green" G. Campbell Jr. is an Associate at The Firmament Group. Prior to joining Firmament, Mr. Campbell spent two years as Vice President of Southern ICEE Distributors, a regional beverage distribution and service provider in the Southeastern U.S. After leading the sale of the company, Mr. Campbell worked as Head of Transition for the buyer—The ICEE Company—a wholly owned subsidiary of J&J Snack Foods.
Mr. Campbell received his B.A. from Yale University, where he majored in economics and played varsity baseball. Mr. Campbell also studied economic policy at The London School of Economics and Political Science. Mr. Campbell currently serves on the Board of Directors of Wastewater Specialties.
Corey Schmidt
Corey W. Schmidt is an Analyst at The Firmament Group. Prior to joining Firmament, Mr. Schmidt was an Analyst in the Diversified Industrials group at Raymond James, where he focused on mergers and acquisitions, debt and equity financings and other strategic advisory initiatives for middle market companies.
Mr. Schmidt received a B.S. in Commerce from the University of Virginia's McIntire School of Commerce with a minor in History.
Dillon Dunteman
Dillon J. Dunteman is an Analyst at The Firmament Group. Prior to joining Firmament, Dillon was a summer analyst for MPE Partners, a private equity firm focused on lower middle-market leveraged buyouts and recapitalizations.
Mr. Dunteman received his B.S. from Harvard University, where he majored in mechanical engineering and rowed on the varsity lightweight crew team.
Allie Reitman
Executive Assistant
Allie Reitman is the Executive Assistant at The Firmament Group, where she also leads the company's Human Resources efforts. In her role, she manages administrative office duties, organizes events, and carries out people operations by creating a positive and encouraging office culture. Ms. Reitman brings a wide range of organizational and marketing experience to Firmament. Prior to joining Firmament, Ms. Reitman was involved in the public relations and marketing strategies of two online retail businesses.
Ms. Reitman holds a B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from Towson University. She also studied Marketing at the American University of Rome. Ms. Reitman received a Certificate in Human Resource Fundamentals from Baruch College in the spring of 2017.
Isabella Cerri
Administrative Assistant
Isabella Cerri is an Administrative and Research Assistant at The Firmament Group. Ms. Cerri brings research experience from her background in the healthcare industry. Prior to joining Firmament, Ms. Cerri worked in long-term healthcare as a recreation assistant for Parker at Monroe. She also completed an internship at Parker in which she researched the most effective methods for recruiting and retaining new employees. Additionally, Ms. Cerri worked at LibraryLink NJ, a nonprofit organization servicing New Jersey libraries.
Ms. Cerri graduated summa cum laude from Rutgers University where she earned a B.S. in Public Health.