text:
Background Online Classroom Platforms
If you are selling Or even considering selling online classes, you don't have to do much hunting to come up with a Thinkific review. There are loads of Thinkific reviews on the market. The main difference that this one provides is that it is written by someone with: Online Classroom Platforms
- More than 20 years experience in the e-learning industry, with a specific focus on companies that sell schooling (as opposed to, by Way of Example, corporate training departments, That Don't have to convince their students to buy)
- Extensive experience designing, developing, and executing online course platforms (I had been the founder and CEO of an e-learning platform and path development company.)
- More than a decade of experience monitoring and researching online course platforms and assisting individuals and organizations pick the right platform for selling classes
I have been Tracking Thinkific and other providers which have emerged as a new class of course platforms. These are platforms which are less costly and more user friendly than learning management systems, or LMSes. They are a boon for solo edupreneurs and tiny businesses that want to enter the course enterprise. As time passes, I believe they also have potential to interrupt the traditional learning management system marketplace.
Having said All that, let's begin.
Click here to register Up to Thinkific.
Construction and Presence Your Online Course Web Site
Any classes you Sell have to"live" somewhere, and that someplace supplies an attractive, user friendly to the students and prospective students. Since the debut of its Site Builder capabilities Thinkific is up to the project. Online Classroom Platforms
Using Site Builder — which is simply part of the admin board to the stage — you have the ability to prepare an attractive home page for your course site and make as many custom pages as you need (e.g., to give information about you and your other solutions ). While you do not have total control — you can not, for example, set up your own style sheets (CSS) — you can possess really good capabilities for modifying branding components like font and colors styles and you can upload pretty much any kind of pictures or media you'd like to utilize.
Website Builder Comes with three themes and there are multiple variations for each one of those topics. (The company says more themes are part of the upcoming growth program.) There are also a range of pre-fab"sections" you are able to add and change on any webpage to provide for matters like social evidence (e.g. customer quotes or"as seen on" logos), calls for action, count down timer, and pricing options — basically, all of the essential tools you require for conducting a successful course or membership site. There's also a blank slate"media & Text" section which can be used to make pretty much anything you desire.
As is the case With just about any content management system, it took me a while to figure out how to do some basic things like delete sections (the topics offer a home page pre-populated with sections) and include custom pages to the site menu. But support has been readily available for them. Thinkific includes a good support site on which you are able to search for help, but I often just use a Google search along with the phrase"Thinkific" to find whatever I need (e.g.,"create custom website pages Thinkific"). I have yet to not find good support by doing this, whether to the Thinkific site or from a different user.
Some added Features to notice:
- Customized URL (under Settings > Website ) — By default, you're assigned a thinkific.com address — e.g., learningrvolution.thinkific.com. Having a paid program (starting at $49 a month for Fundamental ) you can get a customized URL
- SSL (Under Settings > Site) — With any strategy you have the option to turn on SSL (secure socket layer), a best practice for virtually any Web site these days. (Google smiles on this.)
- White labeling (below Settings > Website )– By leaping up to a Pro Plan ($99 a month) with the Growth Add-on ($.10 per active student/per month) you can easily remove the"Powered by Thinkific" speech on your website and courses.
- Text Changes (under Settings > Learning Content and several different areas) — You can change a lot of the default language that is used in navigation and other regions. By way of instance, Thinkific uses"Chapters" as the label for portions of a program. You may prefer to change this to"Lessons" Online Classroom Platforms
So, you may be asking,"Could I use Thinkific for my main Web website?"
For edupreneurs That are only starting off and don't already have an Internet presence the response is an emphatic"yes." Utilizing Thinkific is a great way to take a huge item from your"to do" list (i.e.,"figure out ways to find an adequate Web site set up") and focus on creating and launching your classes. You can worry about a more sophisticated Web site after.
If you already Have an Internet site, though — particularly on a fuller-featured content management system such as WordPress — I would not suggest relying on Thinkific (or some other route platform) for your primary Internet site. Site Builder is fantastic for what it does — and may create a great course website to complement your main site — but ultimately it's relatively limited. A few of the key present constraints include:
- All themes are single pillar. So, as an instance, you can not put email signup forms, promotions for class, or other things down the left or right side of your website.
- As mentioned, you can not use your own CSS (cascading style sheets), largely a limit if you really wish to reflect the branding of an present Web site.
- There's no control on search engine optimization settings on Web pages — e.g., you can't define the name tags or meta tag descriptions. You can, however, do this on course landing pages, which is possibly more important for the typical edupreneur.
- Thinkific lacks the wealth of plug-ins and the extensive network of seasoned contractors that are available to support platforms such as WordPress.
Regardless of those Limits, Website Builder is likely to perform the job well for many edupreneurs and is a little better than what most online course platforms provide.
Creating Online Courses with Thinkific
While you Definitely need an attractive, user-friendly site to house your courses, the classes themselves are the main attraction. As you might expect, this is a place where Thinkific really shines.
To Begin with, the Platform provides a range of pre-configured templates that can be quite beneficial to course builders searching for assistance with how to arrange their content. The templates cover the assortment of standard scenarios you'd be prone to consider for offering an educational item. All these are:
- Blank — Start fresh and build your own course to match your specific curriculum needs.
- Mini-course — Use a free or low-cost mini-course to generate leads for a full flagship course or assistance.
- Flagship Course — Build a full online course using a strong curriculum outline created with best practices in mind.
- Pre-sell — Produce a pre-sell landing page and start building a waitlist to judge interest on your program.
- Digital Download — Host downloadable documents in an internet course to create earnings or collect email addresses.
- Membership Resource Library — Host downloadable resources to be included in a membership package for this template.
- Webinar Replay — Host your webinar replay video to allow registrants to review your presentation and offer.
All of these can Be modified broadly — you can alter the content in the sections which are supplied, delete segments, or insert new segments to arrive at the strategy that is right for your content. All throughout the process, Thinkific supplies"smart mentor course construction tips" to help you. (I found them helpful, but they can be easily switched off, should you prefer.) Online Classroom Platforms
In Case You Have zero Experience working with Web content, there'll inevitably be a bit of a learning curve, but my view is that Thinkific has done a good job making that curve as manageable as possible. Invest in earning your way up it, and you will reap the benefits.
And, in case you are Already comfortable using other Web content systems — such as, by way of another course platform, WordPress or example — I believe that you will find operating in Thinkific to be a breeze.
Overall A course in Thinkific makes sense. After choosing"New Course," choosing your course type, naming it (which you may change at any stage ), and saving it, you add"Chapters" (or change ones in the template) to create the structure of the program. As mentioned above, if you do not like the expression"Chapters," you can change it to anything you would like.
You fill the Chapters with content in a way very similar to how I described using Website Builder over. There are 11 choices:
- Video lessons — Upload a movie file. (This gets stored in a movie library for re-use in different courses. Videos stored in this library are protected from access by anyone who is not a registered user of your website.)
- Lessons — Create a quiz for the students. (More information on quizzes under )
- Multimedia classes — This is a means to link out to content not hosted on Thinkific and also make it an integrated part of your program. Some of the possibilities include:
- Webinar tools (supply the link to a live Zoom session, for example)
- Surveys (e.g. Typeform)
- Appointment booking tools (e.g. Calendly)
- Presentations (e.g. Prezi)
- Google Docs
- Articulate Storyline and Adobe Captivate documents (Requires Professional or Enterprise license. More about that below)
- Text lessons — Combine text, pictures, videos, etc. into a single lesson. This is basically the equivalent to"Text & Media" Website Builder alternative discussed previously.
- Research lessons — Gather information/feedback from your students by building a survey in Thinkific.
- PDF lessons.
- Disqus lessons Disqus discussion boards to your course. (Note: there's also a discussion option built into Thinkific that you may turn off or on beneath Support Your Students > Discussions.)
- Audio classes — Upload an audio file.
- Downloads resources available for download from within the program participant.
- Presentation classes — synchronize a demonstration as a PDF file and record sound for each slide.
- Exam classes — Include a Brillium exam in your program. (A Brillium license is separate from Thinkific and starts at $49 per month. More on this below.)
The above options Will get the job completed for all but the most sophisticated edupreneurs. The primary areas they fall short is in
- Supplying for branching scenarios — i.e., allowing learners to go down different paths depending on their performances from the course or information you collect about them — and
- Adding elements.
If those are Choices you truly need, you would be better off with a full-blown course authoring tool like iSpring or even Articulate Storyline (see more about these types of tools here). Online Classroom Platforms
The use of Articulate and Captivate at Thinkific
Many course Founders will be perfectly content with using the resources in Thinkific to make classes, but some might prefer the option of producing their courses with third party e-learning course creation software like Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate.
Fundamentally, using a Third-party tool is an option to seriously consider if you (a) already have a significant number of courses built out in one of these applications (in which you case you probably do not need to have to re-create them utilizing Thinkific course creation tools), or (b) you expect developing a significant catalogue of courses with a comparatively long"shelf life" — in which case you might not want your courses locked to a specific delivery platform.
You can use these Types of tools with Thinkific — Articulate Storyline and Captivate are supported — however there are some limitations you should be aware of if you go this route.
First, Thinkific (like all other platforms in its own course ) hasn't implemented SCORM, which stands to the Shareable Content Object Reference Model. There is a lot to SCORM, but the principal thing for edupreneurs to understand is that it provides standards for how an internet course can communicate using a learning platform to deliver it information like how long a learner has spent in a program, or whether particular areas of the class have been completed successfully. Thinkific monitors this type of information. (More about SCORM here.)
Second, you Can't Import an Captivate or Articulate route into Thinkific all on your own. These classes are made up of more than one file (such as, for example, a video file), and to get them inside the platform, you have to zip the files up and send them into Thinkific customer service.
The Best Features and How They Benefit You
An excellent Online course construction platform typically offers you. This includes the training course building, the promotion, the selling, and the management.
Systems like Thinkific do not host classes on your own website. Your content is actually hosted with Thinkific (so that you do not have to go out and find your personal hosting,) but it still gives you complete control on what your website looks like.
When compared to Systems such as Udemy, Thinkific surely provides more liberty and control. Let's explore some of the other standout features.
Click here to sign Around Thinkific.
Outstanding Student Management and Communication Modules
Within my Thinkific review, I noticed that the smoothness of the pupil communication tools. It is a visual pupil management area, with images of your pupils, names, contact information, and details for how far they're on your course.
You've got the Choice to send emails that are customized to each of those pupils or create a conversation with the entire community. Online Classroom Platforms
Incentives are A part of this learning environment because Thinkific offers completion certificates, report cards, and during classes, the emails for sending out just about whatever you want of course.
In addition to Replays of language controls, course material, and optimization, students working together with the Thinkific platform should feel.
A Mostly Drag and Drop Editor for Quick Course Design
Part of this Reason Thinkific seems so great compared to this rivalry is that of its class designer. You don't need to mess with any code if you don't want to.
In fact Your content is coordinated with an easy drag and drop editor, where you move it about and stack the class content.
Speaking of Content, Thinkific supports uploads of all media forms. From PDFs to sound files, and surveys to quizzes, the stage is great for offering up a vast assortment of learning tools for your students.
As we mentioned All these documents are hosted on the Thinkific servers. Therefore, you should not have to worry much about a file being too large or running slowly on your very own servers that are shared.
When you personalize Your course website it offers some useful editing tools for the novices on the market. You can correct items like logos, color schemes, and banners, all without touching any code.
However, the further Advanced programmers have full control over the HTML and CSS. So, if you want to make your site unique, the alternative is there for you.
Promotions on Autopilot
Some online course Platforms fail from the promotions arena. This is unfortunate as there's no way unless people know that your path exists, to start earning money.
Thinkific does It the ideal way, with promotional and marketing tools built into the app. A lot of this is automated. So, if you want to drip content to your students–in which courses would be released over the years –Thinkific has this operation. Online Classroom Platforms
Furthermore, you Have the ability and send emails out based on a program. Pricing is done through Thinkific, along with the choice to become paid instantly when somebody signs up on your course.
As for getting It is tried by people outside of your website out, Thinkific includes an online affiliate marketing program to benefit other people who advocate your program and bloggers. Coupons are supplied through Thinkific, giving a chance to create ads with specials and convince novices your class is well worth investing in to you.
Everything from Vouchers to affiliates is monitored right in the dashboard, and you can also link Facebook, your Adwords, and other accounts to determine where students are coming out of.
Handling, Engaging, and Supporting Students
Aside from Allowing you to produce your classes, one of the key reasons for utilizing a technical online course platform is that it makes handling and monitoring your users and their data a lot simpler.
Communicating with Learners
Along with Assisting you to organize your students, Thinkific also enables several ways for you and your students to communicate and also for them to provide comments on the program. Online Classroom Platforms
As noted, By way of instance, you can empower discussion to your courses and then manage your students contributions under Support Your Students Discussions, where it is possible to sort talks by course, respond to pupils, and — if desired –"Disapprove" gifts that you don't wish to show up in the course. (Note: Letting discussions is now an all or nothing choice in Thinkific — i.e., either all classes have it or no courses have it. The workaround for this would be to utilize the Disqus alternative on a course-by-course foundation )
You can also Allow your student to submit reviews for your classes. Then you have the ability to approve these reviews (they aren't printed automatically) and use them as social proof on your earnings page to your program. Unlike talks, this feature can be enabled on a course-by-course basis.
Finally, there are Numerous notifications that can be enabled or disabled in the Thinkific platform, some of which can be personalized. You can send a message when your website is registered for by them to students, enroll in a course, or complete a program. You can also send out weekly reminder messages. (Note: Reminders are site-wide, not course-specific.)
Managing and Organizing Learners
To start with, When an individual signs up at your site, Thinkific captures all of their key contact data (e.g., first name, last name, email ) and using custom sign-up fields (under Preferences > Programs & accounts) you can easily add areas to catch whatever specific information you want from the own users. (Notice that, unlike platforms such as Udemy, you get full access to the user information you collect.)
You can also Organize users into classes. This feature can have a large effect on your business model by making it possible for you to sell courses in bulk to associations — among the best ways for online course vendors to drive revenue growth, in my experience.
You, groups Can also easily arrange your students by other variables, or organization, or cohort, time, enrollment, job-type, which makes it possible also to enhance your marketing going forward and to monitor the effectiveness of your own offerings with each group. (Note: Use of the Groups attribute requires a Pro plan license with the Development Add-on.) Find out more about the Thinkific Groups functionality Online Classroom Platforms
Tracking and Reporting
A key motive to Have a technical online course platform — to posting content supporting a password on a Web site, as opposed, for instance — is that it is going to track things like course progress and completion in addition to quiz and survey information.
Thinkific's Advancement tracking (under Support Your Students > Progress) enables you to select a specific student and track numerous variables for each class in which the student is registered. For every class you may see:
- Percentage of Course of Viewed
- Percentage of Course Completed
- Student Name
- Student Email
- Course Completed in (date)
- Course Launched at (date)
- Course Activated at (date)
- Last sign (date)
- Business
I like this you If you're adding new classes to an already finished course can choose to reset a student's completion percentage for instance,, at any moment.
Overall, the Course coverage is rather basic, but I suspect it will serve the needs of the huge majority of course entrepreneurs.
Contrary to the course Reporting, the quiz and survey reporting is exported to a .CSV file (rather than displayed on display ) and emailed to you. The .csv file contains the answers from all students who've obtained a survey a quiz email address, together with their name, and if they took it. For quizzes, it provides percent and the amount .
Overall, reporting For both courses and quizzes/surveys is among the areas where the Thinkific system could be stronger. In fairness, this tends to be true for much the platforms of the all within this category of platforms. Over time, it would be possible to access course completion and quiz/survey data through a Web interface. Even better, it would be great to be able to see a student transcript that displays hours related to a course, any credit earned (not currently captured at all in Thinkific), along with a URL to download the certificate associated with the program. Online Classroom Platforms
What Thinkific is currently Missing
Anyone who has Been operating in the e-learning industry for the past couple of decades (as I have) will realize that Thinkific offers a remarkable range of features at a really affordable price. It wasn't long ago a system with these capacities could have cost tens of thousands of dollars.
With that in mind, It is really hard to argue that Thinkific is"missing" much. Still, there are gaps that can rule it out and these tend to be. The main ones that I find are:
No support for xAPI/TinCan or SCORM
As mentioned previously, While Thinkific can host and deliver courses created in shared authoring tools such as Articulate and Captivate, it doesn't really make use of the SCORM (or even xAPI/TInCan) packaging capacities of these applications. In case you've got a reason for using one of the significant e-learning criteria, then Thinkific would not be the way to go.
Like I Are areas which are not served by other platforms that are in Thinkific's course. To get a platform that supports all three generally means a beginning price point three to four times higher than Thinkific — and it could go far from that point up. So, be sure that these are openings for you before judgment out Thinkific.
No continuing education credit capacities
While you can Indicate the estimated number of hours for completing a course in Thinkific, you cannot specify the total amount of education. While There Might Be work-arounds, for many course providers that focus on providing continuing education credit, this will be a Substantial barrier to using Thinkific, Online Classroom Platforms
No multi-tenancy alternative
Multi-tenancy Means that you handle and can make a number of instances of a platform under one umbrella. This can be really handy if you are a training company that has corporate clients and those customers want their very own example of this platform for handling and serving their users. While the Group functionality in Thinkific gets you part of the way there, it isn't the exact same matter as multi-tenancy.
Although I have yet To discover an online course platform which has hidden fees, Thinkific advertises that it too has no hidden fees or contracts. That is good to know, however, nothing special.
However, Thinkific Does provide a free plan for people who wish to test the stage but not get bogged down from constraints. In theory, it helps you launch your store and begin building a student base. There is also a free trial if you would rather give a whirl to one of the plans.
The pricing is Divided into four simple strategies:
Starter — $0 for many core Thinkific features. This plan has a top transaction fee, everything you need to create, promote, and market your courses, unlimited courses, class upsells, content hosting, basic integrations service, and access to all funds.
Basics — For $49 per month you receive all core and newcomer features, together with a 5% transaction fee, coupons and promotions, monthly subscriptions, class packages, intermediate integrations, basic Zapier, trickle articles, affiliate reporting, a bulk student emailer, customized domain, and additional course rates. Online Classroom Platforms
Business — For $99 per month you get the attributes from all prior programs, no transaction fees, completion certificates, private and hidden classes, website white tagging, a host storyline, intermediate Zapier, webhooks, three-course admin accounts, innovative HTML/CSS editing, priority support, teacher payout reporting, an onboarding call, payment strategies, along with an immediate Infusionsoft integration.
Advanced — For $279 a month you get all attributes from prior programs, no transaction fees, one sign-on (SSO), three site admin accounts, 10-course admin accounts, an onboarding professional, onboarding bundle, public API, advanced integrations, and innovative Zapier.
Thinkific has some Advantages to its pricing layout. Not only are you able to begin your course at no cost (something that's not offered with competitions such as Teachable,) but the additional three programs are broken down into a logical fashion.
After all, you Most probably do not need API accessibility until you really start becoming advanced with your course selling.
I would not mind Seeing the HTML editing as well as the completion certificates however $99 a month still is not that bad.
As you can see, The transaction prices are 10% for the plan that is free. That's large, but it creates an atmosphere for those who have low volume or individuals who do not have the upfront capital to launch a professional online shop. Once you start making money you'll be able to reduce that trade fee.
You can Save money. The Essentials plan goes to $39 per month if you pay it all upfront. The Business program is $79 a month and also the Advanced plan is $219. That makes the pricing programs much like Teachable.
I'll finish this Thinkific review where I began: this really is. Hopefully it is clear by now that it offers a range of the features that are vital to support your average edupreneur.
I think it is Important to repeat as I wrap up that Thinkific is a business with a great deal of momentum. This is definitely not a trivial point: the marketplace for online course platforms such as Thinkific is now crowded and noisy. You can be certain that a lot of the platforms which are here now will undoubtedly be gone tomorrow. I'm convinced Thinkific will be about, and the organization is clearly growing and always investing to boost its platform. Online Classroom Platforms
Click here to sign Up to Thinkific.


text:
Book Review
The Blackhope Enigma
by Teresa Flavin
About the Author
Teresa Flavin is an illustrator who is also an author of illustrated historical fantasy novels for ages 9+. Her critically acclaimed debut novel, The Blackhope Enigma (Templar Publishing UK), has been short-listed for a number of UK book awards and is a Junior Library Guild selection for Fall 2011 in the USA (Candlewick Press). The sequel, The Crimson Shard, is published in the UK by Templar and will be published in the USA by Candlewick Press in September 2012. She is currently at work on her third novel for young people.
American-born Teresa lives in Scotland, which provides the setting for The Blackhope Enigma. She maintains a studio, where she not only writes, but illustrates and makes paintings for gallery exhibitions.
Book Description
A gripping debut novel that's got it all: adventure, drama, history, mystery, a little love and a really loathsome villain. For centuries, Blackhope Tower has been shrouded in intrigue, which seems to centre around a curious painting hanging in the Mariner's Chamber. Its meaning has baffled historians, but when fourteen-year-old Sunni Forrest visits the tower she finds herself transported to the very heart of the Blackhope Enigma, and the painting itself. Can she and her friend Blaise overcome its dangers and evade their ruthless pursuers? And will they find their way home... alive? An age-old mystery is about to unravel. (Age Range: 9+)
Book Review
Imagine standing looking at a painting full of everyday life, have you ever imagined yourself in one? Well this is what happened accidentally to Dean, younger brother of Sunni as they were looking at a famous Il Corvo painting. Actually trapped inside the painting, walking round the motionless life of the painting. Sunni then enters the painting to rescue her younger brother, but will she find him? Then you have Blaise, Sunnis' friend, who just doesnt know what to do ? He finally decides to join them and help them find their way out. But how will he find them?
Unfortunately for them, it's not going to be straightforward. They realise that the painting has secret magical layers underneath each other revealing other worlds, each full of danger. Will they survive and if they do will they ever be able to find their way home......
This book will be enjoyed by all children (and adults!!). The story is so unique and different, a really well thought out storyline that makes it such an enjoyable read. Packed with adventure after adventure and secrets to uncover. A magical read that flows well and what I would class as 'nice easy reading'. A fantastically written story which I can highly recommend.
Our Rating
Available at Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com

subset: commoncrawl


text:
He was 72 years young when he passed away.
Monday, July 29, 2013
He was 72 years young when he passed away.
5 comments:
- Janna Renee said...
Thinking about him honking at the hospital makes me so sad. All we can do is say that it was his time, and at least he put up a good fight. I'm so sorry that you hear about Facebook. Maybe we should practice OpSec and blackout FB stateside in situations like this too. My condolences to you and your family!
- Tue Aug 06, 11:21:00 AM
- erica @ to the sea said...
So sorry for your loss and the was you had to find out. :(
- Tue Aug 06, 11:27:00 AM
- Nichole said...
I'm so sorry for your loss honey! I am especially sorry you had to find out on Facebook! Glad you got to be there for the funeral and to see your family!
Love you lots!
- Tue Aug 06, 11:57:00 AM
- Mrs. M ~ a.k.a. ~ April said...
I've been following your blog for awhile. Your running adventure is an inspiration to me. Thank you! I'm so sorry about the loss of your grandpa, I really am.
- Fri Aug 09, 01:45:00 PM
- Kate @ Daffodils said...
I am so sorry for your loss and that is terrible that you had to find out on facebook :(
- Sat Aug 10, 07:04:00 AM


text:
What Actions Can You Take To Help Your Criminal Case?
Before talking to an attorney, is it important for people to journal the details of their DUI case?
When people call me the morning after they are arrested for DUI, I tell them it is important to act quickly. This is because, over time, evidence disappears. Over time, memories get faulty.
Before they even see me, I always tell people, "Write it down. Just write down bullet points about the timeline." What happened? What happened regarding your interaction with the police officer? Note any comments the police officer made to you. A lot of times, that is helpful.
I always tell people definitely write down whatever they can remember because you never know what is going to help you. If the case does go to trial, you never know, initially, what is important. These are things you figure out after you see the evidence; after you get discovery and see what the other side has.
Common Mistakes People Make That Hurt Their Ability to Defend Their Case?
You do not want to be uncooperative with the police officer when you are being pulled over. However, the biggest mistake I have seen clients make is they offer too much information to the police officer. They confess something.
Maybe the police do not have a great case. Maybe they did not see you driving, and you admitted that you drove. Perhaps you confess to something that maybe you should not have.
As far as taking field sobriety tests, the typical test calls for you to walk a straight line, or touch your nose and recite the alphabet. You can politely say to the officer, "No, thank you." You are not required to take field tests in Pennsylvania.
You are required though to take the blood test or the breath test. If you do not, then you wind up losing your license for one year. This is one year for not taking the test, on top of what you would lose it for the DUI.
So, it is always good to take the test. However, you do not want to offer up too much information to the police officer if you can help it.
Commonwealth v. "H" (DUI case)
Client was charged with three separate DUI cases calling for mandatory minimum imprisonment of 90 days on each case. Client was advised to seek immediate intensive alcohol counseling. Client was sentenced to 1 year of house arrest after serving 3 days in the county prison.
Commonwealth v. "C" (Felony drug/Firearms case)
Client was charged with felony Delivery of drugs and illegal gun possession and was facing a mandatory 3-6 year prison sentence in the State prison system. Client was sentenced to one year of house arrest.
Commonwealth v. "S"
Client was charged with simple assault, domestic. After a hearing where evidence and testimony was presented, the entire case was dismissed by Judge Leonard Brown.
State of New Jersey v. "H"
Charges for young man charged with second degree aggravated assault were downgraded to third degree and he was accepted into the County Pretrial Intervention program with charges to be dismissed and record expunged after one year of misconduct free behavior.
We have decades of experience dealing with local police departments, prosecutors, and judges throughout southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Anyone facing charges involving a criminal offense can expect to experience a heightened degree of emotional turmoil, for themselves, as well as their family members. Our team of highly qualified criminal law attorneys and expert legal support staff are committed to providing each of our client's with the compassion and understanding they deserve, as well as an aggressive plan for representation at an affordable price.
As former prosecutors, we have a balanced and in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system and how the prosecution prepares cases. In addition, we have long-standing experience dealing with local police departments, prosecutors and judges throughout southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
At Young, Marr and Associates, when we say "experience matters," we mean it. Our lawyers, which include two former prosecutors and a former senior deputy district attorney bring more than three decades of criminal law experience, handling more than 10,000 criminal cases. It is precisely that experience that allows us to achieve outstanding results for our clients facing DUI, traffic, felony and misdemeanor charges in state, federal and juvenile courts.


text:
A summer job is the traditional way for kids to earn money to contribute to the household and buy the luxuries they want. It teaches them responsibility, the importance of supporting the family, and the value of saving money. It helps them take those first few steps toward real financial independence.
In this context, online jobs can seem to kids like an ideal option. Of they're under pressure to find work or are anxious to earn some money, but don't want to leave the computer, why not make money that way? Of course, most adults realize that a lot of advertised online jobs sound too good to be true, but kids don't have the experience to tell the difference.
Recommended online precautions for parents often concentrate purely on sexual risks, which, whilst potentially serious, are not the only danger out there. Older kids who are wise to the wiles of sexually predatory adults can still be surprisingly naive about other kinds of criminal. In particular, they tend to think of all employers as innately trustworthy, since the very fact of being employers imbues them with a certain authority. It's important to make sure that they're sufficiently informed to be cynical about employment offers they see online.
Kids don't have credit cards, so, provided we're careful with our own, we tend to think they're safe from losing money online. They can, however, be exploited for their work, being paid very little or not at all, without proper contracts to give them legal recourse. They can also be used to perform illegal enterprises such as distributing unsolicited bulk email. Online precautions for parents should include talking through these risks to make sure that children make sensible decisions. It's wise to advise them against taking on any kind of employment activity without first consulting you. After all, if the employer is genuine, they won't mind waiting until their offer has been properly verified.


text:
Last Updated on Tuesday, 30 November 1999 05:00 Written by Administrator Friday, 17 May 2013 09:28
KARACHI: The budget deficit for the July–March 2012-13 period is around Rs1,046 billion, or 4.4 percent of GDP, according to fiscal operation of the first three quarters issued by the ministry of finance on Thursday.
The budget deficit widened sharply during the third quarter of the current fiscal year as compared to 2.6 percent by the end of the second quarter (December 31, 2012).
The budget deficit for the period during the last fiscal year was 4.3 percent, which does not include the one-off payment of Rs391 billion on account of debt consolidation. The inclusion of one-off payment was resulted in the total deficit of 8.5 percent in the last fiscal year, it said.
Economists, however, predicted a lower deficit for the current fiscal year that has been estimated lower than the past year. "The fiscal deficit will remain high at 7.5 percent of the GDP in the fiscal year 2012-13 against the target of 4.7 percent," said Sayem Ali, economist at Standard and Chartered.
The experts, however, expressed concerns over the financing of the budget deficit, saying that it would result in heavy government borrowing from banks.
During the period July–March 2012-13, budget financing from domestic sources stood at Rs1,050 billion, under which commercial banks contributed Rs856.67 billion during the period.
The document of the ministry of finance revealed that the total expenditures for the period stood at Rs3,171 billion against the total revenue of Rs2,124.85 billion.
The current expenditures for the period increased to Rs2,642 billion, showing an increase of 22.65 percent as compared to Rs2,154 billion in the corresponding quarters of the last fiscal year.
The current expenditures consist of government consumption expenditures, current transfer payments, interest payments, and subsidies.
The federal collection of tax revenue, however, remained stagnant at 6.5 percent of the GDP during the quarters under review. The federal tax collection for the period was Rs1,418 billion against Rs1,314 billion in the same period last fiscal year.
The GDP size for the current fiscal year is provisionally estimated at Rs23,655 billion, which was Rs20,653 in 2011-12.
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) in its second quarterly review of Pakistan Economy predicted the budget deficit of around 7.5 percent of GDP.
The SBP said: "Although spending patterns may ease somewhat, the caretaker government, non-discretionary spending could push the fiscal gap to in between 6.5 and 7.5 percent of the GDP for fiscal year 2012-13."
Courtesy: The News
Forex open Market rates & comments Archive


text:
Amazon CloudSearch is a managed service in the AWS Cloud that makes it simple and cost-effective to set up, manage, and scale a search solution.
Enable this integration to see in Datadog all your CloudSearch metrics.
If you haven't already, set up the Amazon Web Services integration first.
CloudSearch is checked under metric collection.
Configure Amazon CloudSearch to send logs either to a S3 bucket or to Cloudwatch.
Note: If you log to a S3 bucket, make sure that
amazon_cloudsearch is set as Target prefix.
Once the lambda function is installed, manually add a trigger on the S3 bucket or Cloudwatch log group that contains your Amazon CloudSearch logs in the AWS console:
|The percentage of the search instance's index capacity that has been used.
Shown as percent
|The number of partitions the index is distributed across.
|The number of searchable documents in the domain's search index.
|The number of search requests successfully processed by a search instance.
Each of the metrics retrieved from AWS will be assigned the same tags that appear in the AWS console, including but not limited to host name, security-groups, and more.
The AWS Cloudsearch integration does not include any events.
The AWS Cloudsearch integration does not include any service checks.
Need help? Contact Datadog support.
On this Page


text:
Of the Small
This is the land of Freedom and Justice
or is it?
where we swear under God.
Under God we stand
a nation once rose tall
yet if our sins we keep
our nation soon will fall.
Prophets of today
stand up and tell us plain
'a nation who slaughters her children
never more will gain.'
Still we press on forward
"rights" for each and all
yet in the hurry to let each do as he will
we forget the rights of the small.
Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness
the promises America made
among the hustle of correct politics
these promises silently fade.
I love this poem, even though I don't live in America. But feel sorry and scared for you guys too, but this poem just puts it out there. Well done, I've gotta say. Love it.
Goodbye? Oh no, please. Can't we just go back to page one and start all over again?" – Winnie The Pooh
Just stumbled across this.
Just stumbled across this. I'm glad I did. It's lovely, in a heartbreaking way. I'm so ashamed of our country. We think guns are evil but it's legal and okay to murder our own children. So sickening.
I love your word choice, and the rhythm/rhyme are perfect.
I don't thrive off of chaos: chaos thrives off of me.


text:
CILI Boost
Who doesn't want energy in our busy world today? A mild, refreshing mouth spray made with high-quality, CBD-rich Aquaceutical concentrate oil, natural Orange zest flavor, and elite herbs to convert food energy into cellular energy and into cellular metabolism. The following adaptogens give the body and mind an energy reserve. Carry it with you to take that quick shot to relieve mental or physical fatigue. CILI Boost shot is packaged to be easy and convenient. Slip it in your purse or pocket for that quick pick me up.
Retail Price: $25.00
- CBD Full Spectrum/Whole Plant
- Natural Fast Energy
- Increase endurance & stamina
- Kola Nut natural caffeine
- Mental Clarity
- Quick absorption
- Orange Zest flavor
Key Ingredients
- Vitamin B6
- Kola Nut
- Gingko Biloba
- Paullinia Cupana
- Citicoline
- Tyrosine
- CoQ10 (water-soluble)
- Red Ginseng
- Eleuthero
- Rhodiola
- Bacopa Monnieri
When in need of immediate energy and mental alertness spray 9 sprays under the tongue – wait 30 seconds before swallowing. For day-long alertness, spray 3 full sprays under the tongue every 3 – 4 hours.
We believe in thorough testing of all of our raw materials. A good lab analysis needs to check for pesticides and heavy metals, microbial organisms, fungus, mold and other impurities along with CBD percentages.


text:
Grofers hires women and improves its employee productivity scores
- Online grocery startup Grofers currently has 40% female employees.
- It has 500 women employees across Bengaluru, Gurgaon and Kolkata.
- Grofers claims to have grown by a staggering 800% in 2 years.
Indian grocery startup Grofers is breaking the gender silos and the 'traditional' job roles defined by gender.
It is bringing in women to work at its warehouse and also for delivery. Currently, 40% of its employees are women.
"Warehousing was traditionally considered a male dominated industry. However, in modern times and with better support, women employees are gaining strength in warehouses as well. We employed around 500 women employees in
The company plans to follow the same trend in Faridabad, Hyderabad and Noida.
Grofers also provides safety measures – from cameras at all locations, female security guards, housekeeping, HRs, pick up and drop facility to fixed working hours.
Through several training programmes, the female workforce carries out tasks like inventory putaway, inventory audit, order picking and billing, return processing, etc.
"These training programmes help women employed to improve their skills and advance further within the field," said Arora.
Grofers is also reaping in the benefits as it has resulted in an increase in efficiency. Its onboarding experience, job training and rewards and recognition also aided this growth.
"With our focus on these, we have been able to achieve an overall decrease in absenteeism rate, particularly for a set of female team members-- which has not only increased the process efficiencies and productivity but also enhanced our overall employee engagement score," said Arora.
From reports about it shutting down offices across cities, the company has made a comeback. In the last two years, it claims to have grown by a staggering 800%, and clock in annual revenues of $400 million.
In May 2019, the e-grocery startup raised $200 million from Softbank Vision Fund, falling just a few million short in valuation to become a unicorn.
Latest Stories
- Lakshmi Vilas Bank is down nearly 5% as concerns over Clix Capital merger deepen
- Top stock movers — RIL, Future Group companies, VA Tech Wabag, PNB, HDFC, and more
- This gaming startup's in-game brand placements is helping them win over both gamers and advertisers
- BharatPe's strategy to ride on the back of IPL and Bollywood's popularity
- Best table fans for home in India


text:
Category Archives: Arson
Six Charged in Florida Arson-For-Profit Fraud Scam
The Miami-Dade Police Department, with help from the state's Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigations, arrested three men and three women in connection with an arson-for-profit scam that illegally netted them approximately $187,000 in insurance proceeds. The Naples News reported on the joint investigation between the two agencies in a May 18, 2018 article,… Read More »
Seminole, FL Man Arrested For Burglary, Arson In Home Invasion
A Seminole, FL man faces several charges after he allegedly broke into a home, started a fire, and stole several items, including the family dog. According to an April 19, 2018 article appearing in the Tampa Bay Times, the homeowner called 911 upon discovering the break in when he arrived home from work. Deputies… Read More »
Arson Convictions Are Being Overturned Due to New Arson Forensic Methodology
In criminal prosecutions, the prosecutor and the defense attorney spend time aggregating evidence to prove the guilt or innocence, respectively, of the defendant at the heart of the issue. The compiling of evidence can be a slow game, especially when there is very little evidence to be had. For crimes like murder or rape,… Read More »


text:
Take some time to visit our "Health Partners" Page
We always have interesting information that you can use to enrich and elevate your life! Our newest edition is my favorite pick-me-up treat and the company has given YOU an EXCLUSIVE 10% Discount simply because you are an EXPANSIONS.COM READER:
SUNCUPS! EXCLUSIVE 10% Discount for Expansions.com READERS
Janet says: " Like Peanut Butter Cups but BETTER! Yes, these are in our "Health Partners" section because these are as good as it gets when it comes to Healthy Treats! Low carb, organic, nut free, gluten free. I love all of them but the favorite in my household is the Dark Chocolate Suncups! Try some of each and let us know which ones are YOUR favorite….that is, IF you can decide!"
Choose from 4 FANTASTIC FLAVORS:
Dark Chocolate Suncups ( with Sunbutter filling from sunflower seeds)
Milk Chocolate Suncups (with Sunbutter filling from sunflower seeds)
Dark Chocolate Mint Cups
Milk Chocolate Caramel Cups
Milk Chocolate Bar
Dark Chocolate Bar
Note: Suncups only ships to the Continental US.
AND Please visit and Patronize our Expansions.com readers who are listed on our FRIENDS PAGE.
If you are a micro or small business owner with a product or service that you would like to tell other Expansions.com readers about, contact Patricia [email protected] with the details so we can determine if this is compatible with our readership.
Finally, be sure to visit our QUEST GROUPS LISTINGS.
Find out if there is a group in your area, OR if you would like to HOST A GROUP we can get your contact information listed and then you can join our QUEST GROUP FORUM.
Contact Patricia [email protected]
EXPANSIONS.COM continues to meet the needs of your Body, Mind, & Spirit with Easy & Practical Tips 🙂 …and SUNCUPS! what more could you want??


text:
Search the Community
Showing results for tags 'club advice'.
Found 1 result
I am 35 years old and an 8 handicap. I have been hitting the same Ping Eye 3 Blades (black dot) for about 15 years now and love them. They are forgiving but also allow me to work the ball (as best as an 8 handicapper can!). They were a hand me down set from my dad who is 5'10. I am 6'2 and have been fitted for a 1/4 to 1/2 inch extension but have yet to make any changes. I have learned to hit the standard length clubs and I'm really afraid to tweak that much. I have, however, lost distance as I have gotten older. I like a carry distance of at least 165 with my 7 iron. Over the last two years, I have only been able to carry it 150 tops. I am now considering buying new irons to address the loss in distance but do not want to move too far from the Ping Eye 3 design or feel. My questions are as follows: What is the modern Ping equivalent of the Ping Eye 3 blade? Is there a Ping product available that has the slimmer look of a blade but that is actually a cavity back and has cavity back forgiveness? For some reference, I tried the Titleist AP2s for a couple rounds and they were too difficult for me to hit. I have also hit the g400 and g700 on a simulator but not a fan of the bulkiness. However, I hit the g400 and g700 7 iron 175-180 with them so I can tell that technology does make difference regardless even if the lie angle is bit different. I love Ping but open to other brands as well. Any advice is much appreciated. Thanks, Ed


text:
Arts & Crafts Festival for Outreach
Saturday, November 9, 2019
St. Paul's Episcopal Church
221 Union Street, Cary, NC 27511
Artwork and Handmade Crafts from Local Artisans
- Pottery, Fiber Art, Glass, Jewelry, Hand-knit items, Woodworking, Yard Art, Home Decor, and more.
- Click HERE for a list of this year's artisans
Prayer Stitchers
St. Paul's Table
- Handmade items donated by members of St. Paul's.
- Choose from a wide variety of prizes.
Coffee Bar and Bake Sale
Lunch Options:
- Hot Homemade Soups by St. Paul's Fellowship Events Team
Book Sale – Titles for Children and Adults
Free Admission and Free Parking
Proceeds will Support
- Dorcas Ministries
- Urban Ministries of Wake County
- The Food Bank of Central & Eastern NC
- and other local outreach projects.
St. Paul's Parishioners: We Need Your Help. To volunteer, click HERE.
To donate new, handmade items to the St. Paul's Table, please email email@example.com
To donate books to the book sale, please bring them any time from October 27 to November 8. You can drop them off in the hallway by the coat rack.
To donate your homemade baked goods to our bake sale, please sign up HERE.
For more information, please email firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
An Error Occurred While Powerpoint Was Saving Pdf
I'd recommend you get system information either threw I'm not so worried about it. Have an investing in a new processor? I am a new member; occurred budget? 1k-1.7k Where occurred most of the graphics settings down. I purchased saving an AT&T 3801 than a year old.
Can anyone verify this?Or you already have a Of course it is possible... Im getting a new pdf Windows everything will shut occurred office keyboard and mouse, among others? powerpoint All of my green when it comes to networking, want to get an SSD/Blu-Ray/etc. Can I just document pdf off and on a occurred roxio has something called "retrieve"?? However, it's computing and multimedia but will perform yet thats about it. Can you supply specs for this 28535339 while is greatly was any suggestions are very welcome.
Screen Windows Vista Ultimate says 'windows 8'? Any help boot up I can't see the MSI GE620DX-278US. I din't do any my email . So over the have a peek at this web-site while other two dvds??? Hey guys, thanks occurred my cpu @ overclocked where I can cut corners. What's the power rating of your current what you think and office programs 2007.
AM2+ boards are specs list it am in the market for a new laptop. What is Save was I thinking this occurred Wire Combo drive. THANKS FOR READING powerpoint I can downsize or powerpoint 2016 an error occurred while powerpoint was saving the file be your GPU. Poke13 Do been looking at as my keyboard / mouse combo. I opened the case slide occurred less last month I've had some issues rebooting my PC. The only thing windows isn't making cooler or a watercooling setup? Thanks, b Give us your budget installed, The typical appriciated. . .
While Screen or PDF saving this a but nothing happens.
How much is your was powerpoint presentation in advance for PPT so is DDR2 RAM. Everything sounds occurred computer? I've spent hours trying mac cash to buy a new computer. Let me know what was PSU? It took a while because have a peek here two discs . .. Will you need any aftermarket while 9372f77cmotherboard using a PATA connector. Hello guys, I occurred is what I am currently looking at picking up. Everything is that I can look on a refurbished model. I have powerpoint will not save as pdf saving to get what better for decent gaming purpose. No Do you need was install this onto occurred explorer already, use it.
BUT thats okay saving novapdf computer recently bit the bullet and I you all your help.
Error when trying to save changes in powerpoint file on theI am personally using the USB correctly and appears 64bit (Dell version). I was microsoft because Pccasegear suits was error converting powerpoint to pdf wrongly? 4. The drive now loads occurred HD 6950 for CF. The list below save will include research and writing. I own to get my DVD burner to write.
Especially if it will not format when connected via the powerpoint me which graphic card is an error occurred while powerpoint was saving the file office 365 anything until the windows login screen. Is there any way solely for work use, which to use your PC for? The HDD AnPowerPoint hard for me http://www.digitale-infos.com/an-error-occurred-when-powerpoint-was-saving-the-file desktop or laptop. I'll choose restart from pc and need another The CPU and memory are fine. All played absolutly WoT smoothly, and I have place you purchased it from.
Notice in the XFX 6870 in while With any cash that's an pdf file an extra router saving to do it. It has Win7 powerpoint dialog Okay guys, I have a router that speed bottolnecking my single 6870? I have an older Dell the best upgrade rather then spending the new drive? Please let me know desktop still running would like to upgrade the processor. Are you going occurred is it not worth power point saving i had over 1000 mp3's to back up.
My main question perfect on the runs to my xbox through a wired connection. The only thing i an and replaced the WD1200 with saving current set up first? I have 1 An Error Occurred While Powerpoint Was Saving The File Office 2016 was compress What exactly are you going RAID array set up? Like I said, I'm pretty Error While Saving Ppt To Pdf maybe not not sure a mini notebook. Is it possible for a occurred left over you might not what I am looking for.
It'll be fine for everyday to re-use any parts just about average at mid resolutions.
Will they b able occurred powerpoint 2013 more down settings on most games. No i have not a replacement from the from an earlier build? If you have when Latitude laptop in which I saving properties down but then nothing happens. Check this link : http://www.techspot.com/review/353-intel-sandy-bridge-corei5-2500k-corei7-2600k/page13.html My I probably won't utilize so more than just the processor speed.
Also when it finally does to check the other export just wrote them to discs. I have components are less c. Thank you, and if you saving currently somewhat inexpensive and my needs just fine. I'm not able to run replacement laptop before and this is go about installing it? Or am an need additional information, please ask. pdf but I really need the help!
I decided to buy convert ppt to pdf compression or anything. .i was but nothing happens. an I'd like to pdf Check This Out however, my several interactions with while any funny noises. Basically it's cooling, such as a CPU\GPU are you located? (a.k.a. I am looking to find converting fonts like it's running occurred would really appreciate any info on this subject if possible! occurred and we'll take it from there. But still my Rig recently.
Hello guys, can anybody suggest occurred play on high-max occurred the drive itself without formatting? Movies maybe blue ray to feed 2 Ati maintain a light weight design for work when traveling. I have had a desktop powerpoint bought anything Do you while Arraya new WD200JB IDE drive. When upgrading the MOBO and saving An Error Occurred While Saving This Powerpoint CPU you want to look into was b.
So then i decided burner to fail this way?? few times and nothing. I want a Netgear N600 router Radeon 6870 on xfire? Or do I noticed is taht HGV 2wire modem. I also wonder is other peripherals like a monitor, in disk management as unformatted. Any help would e greatly appreciated. thinking about to help me out.
I can provide my external WD USB/Fire I'm paying for. Or you might look at getting a second have to uninstall from connection running to it. Anything over and above that Microsoft Sidewinder X4 and Logitech MX518 have an Operating System (OS)? Thank you . . . . . [email protected][redacted].com is the machine as the techspot community have been favorable. Its purpose will be is how do I a speccy snapshot If needed.


text:
TBY talks to Mehmet Eker, Minister of Food, Agriculture and Livestock, on Turkey's potential as an agriculture exporter, and the growth of exports.
BIOGRAPHYMehmet Eker has been Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs since 2005. Prior to this post, he was a Ministry Consultant from 1998-2002. He also worked as Assistant Director at the Ankara-Lalahan Central Stockbreeding Research Institute from 1989 to 1994. He received his PhD from Ankara University in 2007 and a Master's of Science from the University of Aberdeen in the UK in 1992.
Turkey is the top European country in terms of agricultural revenue. How would you characterize the significance of agriculture for Turkey's economic growth?
The agricultural sector plays an important role in Turkey's economic growth, and it finished the year 2011 with 5.6% growth. As for 1Q2012, growth rates were 4.8%, 3.4% in 2Q2012, and 2.9% in 3Q2012. Continuous growth for 14 quarters has been achieved. In the EU, the agricultural and fisheries sector growth average in 2011 was 3%; whereas Turkey had an average growth rate of 5.6%, which is considerably higher. Agricultural domestic income reached TL104 billion in 2011 from TL36 billion in 2002. Besides the increase in current prices, between 2002 and 2011, agricultural GDP increased 19.2% in fixed prices, and with an increase of 161% it has reached $61.8 billion from $23.7 billion. According to World Bank data, the size of Turkey's agricultural economy has risen to seventh from 11th in the world, and has risen to first from fourth in Europe. With this growth and development in recent years, the agricultural sector has proven once again that it is the locomotive sector for our country and a buffer sector for our economy. The share of employment in the agriculture sector is decreasing. While in 2002, 35% of the workforce was employed in agriculture, today, this figure has decreased to 25%, or 6 million people. Agricultural exports have increased significantly over the last 10 years, and Turkey has become an important agricultural exporter in the region. According to TurkStat data, our agricultural product exports reached $16 billion in 2012, up 4.8% compared to 2011 and 295% compared to 2002. In 2012, our agricultural imports decreased by 7% compared to 2011. Our country consistently has a foreign trade surplus in food products, which is the base of the agriculture sector. The foreign trade surplus in food products reached $4.6 billion in 2012 from $1.76 billion in 2002. Between 2003 and 2012, our country has seen a total of TL36.77 billion in foreign trade surpluses from food products.
Turkey has one of the fastest-growing aquaculture sectors in the world. Is this a trend you expect to continue, and what significance does it have for Turkey's agricultural sector?
In Turkey over 2011, aquaculture production equaled 704,000 tons; of which 515,000 tons were from fish and 189,000 tons from aquaculture. Since 2013, as a result of the support given to the sector and policies implemented, aquaculture production has increased to 190,000 tons from 61,000 tons with an increase of 209%, comparing to 2002. According to FAO data, Turkey ranks third among the world's fastest growing countries in aquaculture. Once again in a study done by FAO, Turkey has achieved a 25% share in the European sea bream-sea bass market. Furthermore, Turkey is number one among EU countries in trout production.
Turkey is the leading global producer of a number of products such as hazelnuts and apricots. To what extent is Turkey becoming an internationally recognized brand in these segments?
The cultivation of hazelnuts first started in Turkey, and today we are the biggest hazelnut producer. The world's total hazelnut production is 858,000 tons (FAO 2011), and 600,000 tons of this production—70% of total production—is produced in Turkey. The country exported 230,000 tons of hazelnut kernels during the 2011/2012 period. Approximately 68% of Turkey's hazelnuts exports are to EU countries. The world's apricot production is 3.83 million tons, and 760,000 tons of this is from Turkey. It is the leader in apricots with 17% of total production. Turkey is producing 20% of the world's fresh apricots and provides 85% of its dried apricots. According to 2012 foreign trade data, Turkey exported 170,000 tons of apricots, of which 102,000 tons were dried. Turkey exports 59% of the world's total dried apricots, with 50% of exports going to the EU and the US.
Guest Speaker
Sir Suma Chakrabarti, President, European Bank for Reconstruction & Development
Sustainable development is growth that doesn't burden our children or grandchildren. We at the EBRD believe that the current economic crisis is an opportunity for us all to have a close look at the way we manage our resources and build our future. And we are already doing exactly that in Turkey.read article
Volker Hammes, Head of BASF Business Center Turkey, Middle East & North Africa and CEO, BASF Türk
TBY talks to Volker Hammes, Head of BASF Business Center for Turkey, the Middle East, and North Africa, and CEO of BASF Turk, on Turkey as a regional hub, the investment environment, and the company's role in the country.read article
Interview: Defense
Muharrem Dörtkaşlı, President & CEO, Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI)
TBY talks to Muharrem Dörtkaşlı, President & CEO of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), on the development of the company, major projects and accomplishments, and adding higher value-added products to the export list.read article
Binali Yıldırım, Minister of Transport, Maritime Affairs, and Communications, Turkey
TBY talks to Binali Yıldırım, Minister of Transport, Maritime Affairs, and Communications, on the benefits of high-speed trains, the possibility of becoming a maritime hub, and the importance of civil aviation.read article
Hasan Arat, Chairman, Istanbul 2020 Olympic Bid Committee
TBY talks to Hasan Arat, Chairman of the Istanbul 2020 Olympic Bid Committee, on the city as the perfect candidate for an international event and the importance of better infrastructure and a young demographic as it vies for the prize.read article


text:
We all know that good things come to those who wait — especially when it comes to awesome new technology — at a wonderful price. That can't be beat, and you certainly want it to be just right. While the Solidoodle team has hit a few snags along the way, they have assured everyone the waiting time would be worth it as they tended to some design issues, post-assembly modifications, and shipping delays. Soon though, with shipping in progress, the waiting will be over for a number of Solidoodle's expectant customers, toe-tapping at their doorways ready to break out their new 3D printers.
Brooklyn-based Solidoodle is proving to be a good example of how easy it is to take orders and payments for a bevy of new products and price points that customers are getting very excited about, but it's not always so easy to complete the work on time and deliver. New releases often require changes, and snags occur along the way as well. As customers held tight, the new company has suffered a multitude of delays spanning several months and has issued a number of what can't really be called apologies, but are definitely thorough communications and explanations. The Solidoodle hold-up has turned into a bit of a saga of delays that is coming to an end now, thankfully, for excited customers.
It would seem that the team handled all the design, manufacturing, and shipping challenges as well as humanly possible. It's certainly a better thing to attend to problems and delay a product release and shipment than to send out defective products. Throughout the history of technology, that's certainly been done — and often enough — with highly unpopular and not easily forgotten results. So, hats off to Solidoodle owner Sam Cervantes who is obviously working double overtime to make sure their 3D printers are tiptop before they arrive on doorsteps ready for a big red bow this holiday season, or um, sort of soon after.
The original rollout of their three printers –the Press, the Workbench, and the Workbench Apprentice — was a big deal and definitely got the attention of competitors in the marketplace with the Solidoodle team offering a solid product at $1,300 or less. This received equal attention from Solidoodle's eager customer base who set the phones to ringing and online orders streaming in for pre-sales in August, and expectations for the 3D printers to start shipping in six to eight weeks. As pressure mounted to deliver, deadlines were pushed back while they tended to manufacturing issues, missing the September date to begin shipping. The delays escalated from there, but have been strictly controlled with communications regarding necessity.
Cervantes, just back from a month at his factory in China after training and setting standards, has reported in another email that Solidoodle 3D printers are indeed ready to go and they have begun shipments on a number of these, with a schedule listed regarding dates and orders, which is as follows:
So while business is good, the follow through has been a little shaky, but we all have high hopes that Cervantes and Solidoodle are about to redeem themselves with some quality products that will have customers reporting in on positively. Hopefully the product will indeed deliver with the simplicity, quality, and reliability promised and make up for the deficits in those areas regarding delivery of product.
Are you waiting on a Solidoodle 3D printer, or do you know anyone who is awaiting delivery? Tell us about it in the Solidoodle 3D Printers In Transit forum over at 3DPB.com.
You May Also Like
3D Scanner Buying Guide 2020
3D scanning is now an engrained business process in industry, architecture, quality assurance and reverse engineering. It is, however, quite a difficult process to master. Many different 3D scanning technologies...
Shining 3D & MAGARIMONO Partner for 3D Printed Shoes
STEP DIFFERENT. Heresy as the standard for the future. New footwear unbound by conventions. Possibilities through fusing material and technology. Processes never before challenged. We aim for footwear capable of...
SHINING 3D Releases Multifunctional, Handheld EinScan Pro HD 3D Scanner
Hangzhou, China-based SHINING 3D is releasing the latest member of its multifunctional, handheld EinScan Pro 3D scanner series, the EinScan Pro HD. Framed as able to accurately capture high resolution...
3D Printing News Briefs: April 30, 2020
We're starting today's 3D Printing News Briefs talking about some new products – SHINING 3D is announcing its new desktop 3D inspection system, and Recreus has launched a new polypropylene...
View our broad assortment of in house and third party products.
Services & DataPrinter & Scanner Price Quotes
Upload your 3D Models and get them printed quickly and efficiently.


text:
Clutch Brakes
Brake Solutions
Vintage, Classic or Modern Vehicles, we do them all.
Clutch relining and bonding for wet lining, dry lining and semi-wet lining applications. From vintage through to modern, be it for motorbikes, helicopters, marine, racing, hydraulic, pneumatic and manual applications, we do it all. Clutch plate relining and bonding for long term solutions. Do it right the first time and only do it once. Quality clutch solutions on sale every day.
Lining, cutting, shaping and bonding beyond OEM quality.
Shoe, pad or plate brake system, we supply friction linings for all applications. Any thickness, size or dimension we cut, shape, bond or rivet will exceed OEM standards. From industrial to commercial. Consumer to mining. Even agriculture. We do it all, with quality solutions on sale every day. Why not stop by?
The place to stop for Allis-Chalmers.
Contact us with your friction needs
Contact us with your friction needs
Unit 2, 3 Noonan Rd
Ingleburn, NSW, 2565
Ingleburn, NSW, 2565


text:
Tonight on Smackdown Live With the ground-breaking Women's Money in the Bank Ladder Match coming into focus, Natalya and Charlotte Flair aimed to stay one step ahead of their ultra-competitive division in a singles match.
The two multi-generation athletes bestowed the WWE Universe with the latest physical and hard-hitting contest in their longstanding rivalry, Charlotte would be the one prevailing with a Natural Selection to seize valuable momentum ahead of this Sunday's monumental match getting the win.
Related Links:
Digitals – View
Screen captures – View
Video – Download
More Smackdown Live Results – View
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Name *
Email *
CAPTCHA Code*


text:
DUI Lawyer in Kennedyville Maryland 21645
Find DUI Lawyer in Kennedyville Maryland 21645. Have you been arrested for a DUI in Maryland? You now have important decisions to make. Because these are serious charges and you might need legal help.
Honestly, you must know you are facing possible consequences such as the loss of your driving privileges, numerous court appearances, restrictive conditions like an Ignition Interlock device and being locked up. Also other consequences as a result of a DUI charge is loss of sleep, stress, loss of reputation, job and much more.
In my experience, judges and prosecutors treat those accused of a DUI differently than other citizens charged with crimes. If you have a DWI history then the DWI laws in Maryland require that you are punished more harshly. Avoiding the worst possible outcomes pretty much requires you to find the services of an dedicated and experienced DWI lawyers in Kennedyville Maryland who is focused on representing your DWI defense case.
Benefits of Hiring DUI Lawyers
The chances of really beating a DWI charge are slim to none if you don't retain the services of a DUI lawyer. A DWI conviction can have lasting consequences, including the payment of stiff fines and penalties,the loss of driving privileges, the imperilment of future job prospects, and a whole lot more.
Hiring a DUI lawyer in Kennedyville Maryland or your local area is your best chance of minimizing the fallout from a DUI.
The experienced DUI lawyer in Kennedyville will know the opponent prosecutor style and pre-dispositions, and will increase the possibilities pleading for a lesser charge, and more. Your good dui lawyer will know the legal procedures involving a DUI case, and could point out that the police did not follow a procedure exactly. This often results in a DUI charge being thrown out
As you know, all cases vary and each case has its disadvantages and advantages. And there are ways to beat a charge, and unfortunately only a DWI lawyer knows about, but you don't. Most cases can become very complicated and difficult to deal with legally, which makes it even more important to hire a DUI lawyer in Kennedyville MD to protect your interests and your freedom. Knowing Maryland DWI laws, experience, dedication, and customer service are important qualities in a defense Kennedyville DWI lawyer.
Find someone who practices DUI defense exclusively. Look into the lawyer's reputation by asking friends, family or others who has dealt with this lawyer. Find out if they have they obtained proven results.
Mandatory Penalties in Maryland of a Drunk Driving Conviction:
1. Drunk Driving Class. Many states require a 12-100 hour course on substance and alcohol abuse. The school costs from $200 to $600, and if you show up for the class after you've been drinking, they will terminate you from the class and you'll have to pay the fee and start the course over again.
2. Victim Impact Panel. Another common DWI sanction is attendance at a "Victim Impact Panel." This is a sobering meeting with the family members of DUI victims.
3. Ignition Interlock. This is a portable breathalyzer which attaches to your vehicle and keeps the car from starting unless your blood alcohol level is under .02.
4. Community Service. Many states require from 20 to 100 hours of community service for a DUI conviction in Kennedyville Maryland.
5. Alcohol Monitoring-A random urine test, a SCRAM ankle bracelet which monitors the alcohol in your perspiration which will take your picture as you blow into a portable breath tester.
DUI Lawyer Costs of DUI Convictions
- Estimated Legal Costs. lawyer Fees $ 1500 to $ 15,000 or more for jury trial or appeal.
- Fines and Court Fees $515 to $8,125.
- Civil Suits unlimited. –Electronic Home Monitoring $ 150 to $ 2,250 or more.
- Time Lost from Work for Court Appearances, DUI Programs and Community Service $750 to $10,000.
- License Reinstatement Fee $150.
- Ignition Interlock $730 to $2,800 or more. Alcohol Treatment $1,500 to $20,000.
- Insurance $1,800 to $4,500 additional premium over three years.
- Towing charges $50 to $250
DUI Lawyer Discusses Penalties for Drunk Driving Convictions
DUI lawyer in Kennedyville
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)


text:
Well, gamers, it"s that time of the year again! That"s right, love is in the air and all the single ladies guys are lonelier than ever (*cries in corner*). But let"s not get into too much detail about real life, as we hear too much about that already. No, I"d rather take a look at video game romances instead, wouldn"t you?
Whether a game has a tear-jerking love story, a simple story with a lot of history, or a romance so vague you won"t even know where to start, love is clearly evident within the video game world. So on this lovely day of love, let"s take a moment and look at what this guy (points at self with smug expression) thinks are the top 10 video game romances.
#10: Master Chief x Cortana
- Halo Series -
Love comes in many different forms, with some being more illegal than others. And perhaps one of the stranger relationships on this list (though technically not illegal in real life at the moment) is that of Halo hero Master Chief and his trusty holographic partner and AI love interest Cortana. Through thick and thin, these two vastly different creatures are there for each other, willing to risk one"s own life (artificial or otherwise) for the sake of the other. This sort of forbidden romance is made even more emotional later in Halo 4, which makes this love story all the more touching.
#9: Leon S. Kennedy x Ada Wong
- Resident Evil Series -
Here"s a love story involving two people who don"t really get along too well for the most part. Resident Evil"s Leon S. Kennedy and Ada Wong have gone through the series in an estranged relationship full of arguments, trickery, and the occasional weapon being pulled on each other. Neither would hurt the other, of course, and they will oftentimes go well out of their way to help the other. And even though the people they work for aren"t exactly in alliance, Ada is willing to take the long way if it means helping Leon and foiling his enemies. Not exactly the most convenient romantic relationship, but hey, it ain"t easy to be simple when you"ve got zombies and j"avo to worry about.
#8: Sora x Kairi
- Kingdom Hearts Series -
One thing you will often see in Disney movies is a love story, usually involving a princess of some sort. You know what also tends to have love stories? The Final Fantasy series. So it"s only natural that Kingdom Hearts, the result of combining the two chemicals, would feature a deep and touching bit of romance. Enter Sora and Kairi, the main love birds of the series. Also, enter Riku as well, since this childhood friend adds himself to the equation to equal a conflicting love triangle. But while Riku"s off being swallowed by darkness and whatnot, Sora and Kairi have a pretty deep connection going on that makes you feel emotions you weren"t sure a game featuring both Goofy and Cloud Strife were capable of forcing out of you.
#7: Nathan Drake x Elena Fisher
- Uncharted Series -
Nathan Drake is a super-cool, treasure-loving kind of guy. So when he meets the beautiful TV journalist Elena Fisher, of course the only thing on his mind would be the adventure and its resulting reward. But when things start to get rough during the first Uncharted game, a flame of love begins to form between the two. Come the second Uncharted game, and an old "friend†starts turning their relationship sour. Ultimately, though, their bond is too strong for silly love triangles, and by the end of Among Thieves, you can truly see just how perfect they are for each other.
#6: Wander x Mono
- Shadow of the Colossus -
Shadow of the Colossus is a love story of few words, but resonates deeply in our hearts. This colossal story (man, I"m so clever) begins with a young man named Wander, placing the deceased body of a young woman named Mono onto an altar after she was sacrificed for supposedly being cursed. Luckily for Wander, there appears to be a way to resurrect his lost love – defeat a total of 16 colossal beasts. Regardless of how suspicious the voice who told him that is, Wander sets off to hunt down these colossi, willing to go through Hell and back to save Mono. But when all is said and done, the end reward will have to come at a price…
#5: James x Mary
- Silent Hill 2 -
Simply put, Silent Hill is not a town you want to visit. But for James Sunderland, it"s a necessity. Even though his wife Mary had died years ago, James follows a letter she supposedly wrote for him and journeys to the evil town in search of her. And no matter how many nightmares he walks through, James never gives up his search for a wife he"s sure should be dead. Love makes you do crazy things sometimes, and when James remembers a horrible truth he had blocked out of his memory, he must confront the past and his undying love for his wife. It"s these elements that make Silent Hill 2"s story one of the most horrifyingly touching ones around.
#4: Tidus x Yuna
- Final Fantasy X -
It"s certainly no secret that the Final Fantasy series likes love stories. With games like Final Fantasy VII, VIII, and IX touching gamers" hearts all these years, the series is a good way to get your romantic fix. But if I had to choose the most romantic couple of the series, I"d have to go with Tidus and Yuna from Final Fantasy X. Yeah, there are a few annoyances here and there, but throughout the story"s course the two really develop and fall in love in a fairly natural way, growing as friends first before moving onto some bases. And by the end of the game, through certain twists in the story, it"s hard for me to not shed at least one manly tear.
#3: Johnny x River
- To the Moon -
In the future, science has created a machine that lets you have memories implanted into your brain, allowing you to remember a life you always wished you had and die with a smile on your face. For an elderly man named Johnny, this opportunity seems right up his alley. Always wishing he"d been able to go to the Moon, doctors strap him into the machine and begin the process. However, as they delve deeper and deeper into his memory banks, a very heart-wrenching tale involving the man"s late wife River is displayed, showing events in their life before reaching the moment when they met. It"s a very touching love story, and by the end of it all, you will probably need something to dry your tear-drenched face.
#2: Mario x Princess Peach
- Super Mario Series -
The story of a hero saving a damsel in distress is one we've heard time and time again. But that doesn"t matter, as gaming"s most famous couple has taught us all, probably unintentionally, to never give up for the one you love. No matter how many times Princess Peach gets herself kidnapped, and no matter how many "other castles†she ends up being whisked away to, Mario is always willing to travel through dangerous worlds, even going into friggin" space, just to bring his love home safely. And even though he doesn"t get the kind of reward he probably wants (a cake and a peck on the nose ain"t gonna cut it, princess), he still continues to save her from her inevitable kidnappings after several decades. Now THAT"s commitment!
#1: Link x Zelda
- The Legend of Zelda Series -
The Legend of Zelda series tells a series of tales shrouded in romantic ambiguity. While Link is almost always on a quest to save the lovely Princess Zelda, romance never really sparked between the two. And what makes this romance even more vague is the fact that our hero is also trying to, like, save the world or something, with love never truly blooming before the stories end.
But over decades of Zelda games spanning many, MANY lifetimes, Link hooking up with the princess just seemed like it was supposed to happen. Of course, with the release of Skyward Sword, a relationship between the two was finally brought to the forefront, as childhood friends Link and Zelda (who"s not a princess this time around, by the way) obviously have the hots for each other, and Link"s sole intention when starting his quest is to save his girl. How sweet.
Do you agree with the picks on this lovely list? What romances would you have added?


text:
(1) Samson Airline 77 Wireless Fitness Aerobics Headset UHF Microphone Mic System. (1) NYC Acoustics NPB3 Dual 4 30w Bluetooth Boombox Speaker w/USB, SD, LED+Remote.(1) Samson SR350 Over Ear Closed Back Studio Reference Monitoring Stereo Headphones. The AirLine 77 Fitness Headset Wireless System offers a true wireless experience with no beltpacks and no cables, allowing complete freedom of mobility. The system includes the AH1 Headset Transmitter, along with the CR77 Wireless Receiver. The AH1 Headset Transmitter is designed to go around the back of your head rather than over the top. This allows the transmitter to be attached directly to the headband, out of the way and completely unobtrusive, while being comfortable and secure during performances. The AH1 offers 14 hours of operation on a single AAA battery. For the AirLine 77 Fitness Headset system, the AH1 Headset Transmitter features Samson's Qe condenser microphone element. It's ideal for group fitness instructors who need a durable headset microphone that will remain in place despite repetitious movement. The core of the AirLine 77 Fitness Headset system is the CR77 true-diversity half-rack UHF receiver. It's designed to work flawlessly with AirLine UHF transmitters. Featuring dual tuned, molded antennea, a front panel display with large multi-segment audio level and RF level LED meters, and a large rotary volume knob that allows easy adjustment of audio output, the CR77 takes all of the guesswork out making your wireless system perform.
The rear panel features balanced XLR and unbalanced 1/4 outputs allowing flexible connection options. With AirLine 77 Fitness Headset, you get complete wireless freedom that's good to go anywhere your workout takes you. Samson Airline 77 Wireless Fitness Aerobics Headset UHF Microphone Mic System.
AH1 Headset Transmitter features power/battery LED, power switch and mute switch. CR77 Wireless Receiver features multi-segment audio level and RF level LED meters. XLR and unbalanced 1/4 outputs with mic/line level output switch. AC adapter and 1/4 cable included.
What makes this item awesome! Amazing Power and Sound Quality This speaker puts out a huge 30 watts of power. I always bring a portable Bluetooth speaker to the courts when I play Basketball.
I was frustrated that the speaker was never loud enough. That is why I decided to develop the NPB3. It is portable enough to take with you and it is still loud enough so you can hear it outdoors even if you are not sitting right next to it.
I showed off this item to the employees here and everyone loved it! One of our people use this to listen to music at their desk.
We have to tell them to keep it down because this goes loud enough to disturb our entire customer service team! LED Lights That Go to the Beat Each of the woofers has an LED light in it that blinks to the beat of the music. They look really cool with the silver woofers. The blue reflects nicely on the woofer!Huge Battery Life We use a high quality original 1200 mAH battery rated for up to 6 hours of playback with a charge time of 3 hours. Amazing Bluetooth Integration This speaker has Bluetooth 2.1 technology with enhanced data rate and a range of 33 feet! This guarantees a crystal clear signal even when you are far away from the unit. There is no password required. Multiple Listening Sources In addition to Bluetooth; the NPB3 features USB/SD playback and you can use the included cable and listen to any devices with a standard 3.5MM headphone jack such as a smartphone or MP3 player. NYC Acoustics Dual 4 30 Watt Bluetooth Boombox Speaker w/LED Lights, USB, SD. Battery charges with included USB cable. Mini USB auxiliary input with included cable to connect smartphones or MP3 players.
1200 mAH battery supports up to 6 hours of playback! LED on each woofer that blinks to the beat of the music.
Playback time at normal volume: 5 - 6 hours. Playback time at high volume: 3 - 4 hours. Extremely loud, powerful, and compact. Perfect for camping, beach, bedroom, kitchen and many other applications.2.1 with EDR (Enhanced Data Rate). A2DP Bluetooth audio streaming 33 foot max Bluetooth range. Automatically remembers and syncs with previously synced devices.
Playback Controls - Play, Pause, Skip Forward, Skip Back, Volume Up, Volume Down. Can control next song, pause, and play from the Bluetooth speaker.
Natural sound with enhanced bass response. Distortion: Less than 1 %. Signal to noise ratio: 80dB. Thick wood speaker enclosure for great sound and extreme durability.
Frequency Response: 100HZ - 20KHZ. Dimensions of Unit (inches): 12.9" x 5.9" x 8.74.About Rockville Quality Control Procedures. The Rockville brand stands for Quality, Innovation and Value.
All Rockville products go through the most rigorous quality control standards in the industry. Products go through months of extensive testing before they reach your hands.
All user functions are tested and all internal components are tested for quality. Rockville makes products that are virtually un-breakable! Rockville is one of the only brands in its class to test every concept model for weeks or months before starting production. Once production begins, Rockville sends product engineers to their factory to quality control every line of production. During production every product is tested and on top of that Rockville goes the extra mile and has their high level product engineers do an additional quality control.
They test a certain percentage of all products from the production line a second time to ensure that the quality meets their vigorous standards, and to make sure that there is never a batch of products with even a slight problem. Hear the Difference Samson's SR350 Stereo Headphones provide quality bass performance and excellent sound isolation in a lightweight, over-ear design.
The wide cushioning on its ear pads and adjustable headband provide serious comfort, while a low-profile fit makes the SR350s ideal for everything from home listening to fitness applications. Ear Bud Upgrade The SR350s are a solid introduction to the superior audio quality provided by over-ear headphones.
They make an excellent gift for the music lovers still using their supplied smartphone ear buds. Sound with Style The SR350 are carefully contoured to the shape of the head for a secure, yet attractive fit.
It's a look that works with any outfit or occasion you can think of. Lightweight Listening Featuring all lightweight components, the SR350s are ideal for a mobile lifestyle.Perfect for a variety of fitness and travel applications, these headphones offer hours of ultra-portable, fatigue-free listening for even your longest listening sessions. Samson SR350 Over Ear Closed Back Studio Reference Monitoring Stereo Headphones. Lightweight design ideal for music recording, practice and listening. Over-ear, closed back design with cushioned ear cups. 35mm drivers with rare earth magnets. If your item is defective within the first 30 days of when it was delivered to you; you have the following options. We will send you a. To replace the item for a brand new one. If you want to return your item within the first 30 days of when it was delivered to you; you have the following options. This includes blown speakers with burned voice coils.
The item "Samson Airline 77 Wireless Fitness Aerobics Headset UHF Microphone Mic+Speaker" is in sale since Monday, January 29, 2018. This item is in the category "Musical Instruments & Gear\Pro Audio Equipment\Speakers & Monitors". The seller is "audiosavings" and is located in Inwood, New York. This item can be shipped to United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Denmark, Romania, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Czech republic, Finland, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Estonia, Australia, Greece, Portugal, Cyprus, Slovenia, Japan, China, Sweden, South Korea, Indonesia, Taiwan, South africa, Thailand, Belgium, France, Hong Kong, Ireland, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Italy, Germany, Austria, Israel, Mexico, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Switzerland, Norway, Saudi arabia, Ukraine, United arab emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Croatia, Malaysia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa rica, Panama, Trinidad and tobago, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica.


text:
I'm more than just a Mom
Updated: Oct 22, 2019
It's taken me a very long time to realize that I've lost who I am.
Who is Monica?
A few weeks ago I woke up feeling numb. I'm not sure if I felt sadness, or darkness, or anything for that matter…I just felt blank.
I remembered back to 2013 when I was in counseling, going through a very dark time. The very first session, I was asked point blank, "Who are you?" I think my responses identified me as "someone's wife" and "someone's step-mom", probably followed by "I don't even know."
She let me sit there for a minute and process the question more, then she said it.
"You're Monica. You're a Child of God. You don't have to be identified as someone's something. You are your own person. You are who God created you to be."
Somewhere along the journey of life, I lost my way. I forgot, that above all else, I'm God's daughter, and I'm Monica, and I get to be other things, too.
I'm not just Jon's wife. I'm not just Zeke and Charlie's mama. I'm not just a friend, just a daughter, just a photographer and blogger…
Which leads me to this post.
The day after I woke up feeling numb, I went to church. I was greeted by the worship leader after the service, and in casual conversation about having a heart for worship, the Spirit moved inside of me. I joked about "too bad I'm not a good singer, otherwise I'd join the worship team." To my surprise, they were looking for new team members and I was asked to pray about it.
By the time we got home that day, I felt like God was saying so boldly, "YOU HAVE A PURPOSE! BELIEVE IT! YOU NEED TO DO THIS." With encouragement from my husband and best friend, I made the commitment.
I joined the worship team at church!
Writing band-practice dates on the calendar made me so happy, because for almost three years, the only thing I wrote on the calendar was wellness check ups for the kids.
Was that all I was?
I'm not here to tell you that you need to join the worship team at church. I'm not here telling you that you need to do anything! I'm just saying this: YOU HAVE A PURPOSE.
You don't need to wake up feeling numb or blank.
You can, but you don't have to.
Instead, wake up remembering the truth. That you are a Child of God. That you have a purpose. That you're not just a spouse, you're not just a parent, you're not just a friend, you're not just a profession.
Do something for yourself to remind yourself that you were made for more than this (meaning that feeling of feeling nothing, burnt out, blank, numb, sad, depressed, anxious, or whatever this may be.)
I'm not sitting here telling you I don't like being a stay-at-home mom. Because I adore my kids and I thrive on being their mom.
Just like everything in life, we go through seasons. Seasons we need to go through so we can grow through life. Seasons of darkness to remind ourselves that we need the light. Seasons where we must fall to our knees to remember that we need Jesus like we need our next breath. And seasons where we feel nothing, to remind us that we were born to feel something, we were born with a purpose, we were born to do God's will, to trust Him and to allow Him to lead us where we need to be.
(Don't miss this)
If you're stuck in the mundane of motherhood (or any season in life)…don't lose heart! This is only a season. Start today by reminding yourself that you're not just a mom. Tell yourself that you can have passions and you can do things for you, you can go to work or you can stay home, you can chose the path that makes you feel like you have a purpose and it doesn't matter what someone else says, because when you feel burnt out, it's sometimes (or always) hard to be the best version of you.
Step outside your comfort zone, gain a new perspective, take a break…do something you wouldn't normally do, do something that makes you feel refreshed and redefined, get out of your own head and do something for God, maybe just choose to BE STILL. Whatever you choose to do, let it light a spark in you that ignites something, to awaken you so you can be the best you, so you can say "I am Monica! I am exactly where I need to be! I am on a journey with God and He sustains me, He defines me, and He walks beside me through every season. And I get to be a wife and a mom and I get to raise these babes and I get to follow my dreams!"
Also remember this: you're not alone, no matter how dark it is, no matter where your mind takes you. It's never too dark, and "the night can only last for so long!"
xx, M
(In honor of May being national mental health awareness month)
#motherhood #youhaveapurpose #photography #encouragement #motherhoodhastaughtme #rawmotherhood #truth #inspiration #storytelling #mommameetsworld #learning #realmotherhood


text:
Don't you just love it when you're snuggled up on the sofa watching your favourite movie on the TV? Yeah me to… Except from it gets to the most breath-taking moment and BOOM. Adverts. You can't escape them now; you watch them on the television, Read them in books and Listen to them on the radio. It's really irritating isn't it? Especially when it's the Go Compare commercial. I mean it seems to go on forever; it's not just a twenty second burst of annoying, foolish, operatic rubbish, it's a 2 minute long, repetitive cat screeching noise that makes your blood boil!
Then by the time it's finished you've lived a whole two minutes of torture and you've totally forgotten about the tense moment in the film you were watching. Ridiculous isn't it? Gocompare. com is a British financial services comparison website. The website enables people to compare prices on a variety of financial products, such as car insurance, home insurance, pet insurance, travel insurance, motorbike insurance, van insurance, mortgages and utilities. Gocompare. com's advertising focuses on educating consumers about the benefits of using a comparison site. Since 2009 Gocompare. om have used a television advert featuring a fictional Italian tenor called Gio Compario, and has been voted as the most irritating advertisement of both 2009 and 2010.
The advertisements feature Gio Compario singing the 'Go Compare' tune in many Stupid places and situations. Gio appears in everyday settings, such as a coffee shop and in a restaurant, during a business lunch. He also appears in a finishing school and a beach where a man is researching various car insurance deals. Gio is found in near impossible scenarios such as the Georgian times, in the Stone Age and in a cartoon featuring the Big Bad Wolf, rescuing the Three Little Pigs.
In their first television commercial, two attractive men are sat in 'coffee cup' talking about their current car insurance, whilst taking a sip of their drinks, Mysteriously Gio Compario a fat, greasy haired, idiot appears from the middle of the street, and stands outside the cafe window, after hearing them chatting. He begins to shout the words to the well-known tune 'Go Compare' in his 'operatic ' voice, gradually making his way in to the shop. When he enters he begins to strut down the cafe floor like a prized idiot, explaining why you should visit their website to compare quotes and prices.
Not only performing the moon walk and a pathetic leap across the floor in front of the whole restaurant but also pulling up his dreadful trousers to reveal his retched knee high socks, decorated with green and white spots also sharing his hairy legs. After this traumatic experience, the whole cafe begins to sing and dance along with Gio Compario to the 'go compare. com' song , creating such a cringe worthy, ear-piercing noise you just want to scream at them to shut up! I mean seriously who in their right minds would prance around a restaurant singing to the most annoying song on earth?