text:
Sponsored Links |
Feel free to PM me whenever you think you spot a dupe.
I like banning :evilgrin:
Rep Power: 17475
Click to post in PSD's Celtics Forum
Click here to post in PSD's Fitness Forum
Xbox Live: Save Hogwarts | Twitter: @CelticsTalk
PP more or less outed himself as Mac. Hes also been very disruptive with his posting AND was talking about religion. Why isnt he banned yet?
Sponsored Links |
Throwing in the towel
Snitches get stitches
The Ruben Amaro Effect... Buy it in bulk to lessen the pain
Sponsored Links |


text:
Elena Nosyreva
Dallas, TX - United States
Elena Nosyreva - Fine Artist
Member Since: 12/08/2010
I am a career scientist which has been very rewarding in many aspects including creativity. However, I felt a compelling need to further express myself by taking an artistic journey.
My artistic experimentation has evolved into a tremendously exciting form � photography, digital art and mixed media collage.
I like to experiment with my photographs. I combine multiple images, textures, to crystallize an image that says something new and different at the emotional level.
All images �2009-2013 Elena Nosyreva. All rights reserved. Copying and/or distributing these images without my permission is strictly prohibited.
Elena Nosyreva has not posted any blogs.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Gas Distribution pipelines may be directly affected by work you are considering or intending to undertake on your land if it is in the area shown on the map.
Dial Before You Dig - 0845 6340508 option 6 (9am - 5pm Mon to Fri)
Or you can email email@example.com or write to us at:
Neil Hampshire
Northern Gas Networks
Plant Protection
1st Floor
1 Emperor Way
Doxford International Business Park
Gas Transmission pipelines may also be directly affected by work you are considering or intending to undertake on your land. National Grid UK owns the transmission pipelines covering England, Wales and Scotland.
In order to determine if this is the case and to ensure that you work safely close to such pipelines, please contact directly in writing:
Transmission Enquiries Team
National Grid Plant Protection,
National Grid,
Block 1,
Brick Kiln Street,
Tel: 0800 688 588


text: In the Media A Judge and an Arbitrator Too? By Joe Palazzolo WSJ Law Blog February 21, 2012 Paul Kirgis, a professor of alternative dispute resolution at St. John's University School of Law, said the process steps "toward a two-tier court system, in which the wealthy get secret justice on a fast track, while others [get] messy public processes [.]"


text:
| permalink | related link
The Barcelona (aka "K10") microarchitecture is the latest design from AMD for both the server and desktop markets. The Phenom is the quad-core desktop variant, the Athlon X2 series includes the dual-core variant, and the 23xx and 83xx Opterons are the quad-core server varient.
The key changes over the previous line are covered in brief here and in greater detail here. Most of the interesting features require the use of an upgraded CPU socket denoted by a "+" (e.g. Socket AM2+ or Socket F+), though the CPU will work in non-plus sockets on current motherboards. Some of the "plus socket" features are:
• Separated voltage planes allow the CPU to have a different voltage/frequency for each core and the northbridge.
• HyperTransport 3.0, allowing greater bus bandwidth, including support for DDR2-1066.
In addition, the Barcelona introduces a shared L3 cache, which should have a major impact on HPC applications.
One major issue, however, is an L3 TLB bug present in the first generation of this architecture. This problem can be solved by disabling part of the L3 TLB system in the BIOS or via software (with a 10% performance penalty), or using a unique Linux patch to route around the problem with limited slowdown (but the patch is not intended for production use). See the Phenom wikipedia article for details.
In short, while Intel retains the upper hand in horsepower now, the AMD Barcelona design seems to sport many of the features predicted for future system design.
More information:
Wikipedia's Barcelona article covers the architecture in depth.
Anandtech benchmarking puts the chip through its paces.
To find a Barcelona-based chip, see Wikipedia:
• Phenom quad-cores
• Barcelona-based dual-core Athlons (scroll to "Phenom based")
• Barcelona-based quad-core Opterons (23xx and 83xx)
| permalink
This recent "Innovations" article highlights "utility computing", the idea that virtualization, shared storage, and other technologies will come together to commoditize business computing.
While I agree with the general idea, the author predicts that this will marginalize IT as a field, which seems counter-intuitive. While this kind of computing does allow fewer people to manage more systems, it does make that management that much more complicated. Further, IT has always been about helping users as much as maintaining infrastructure. So I don't see the general IT realm getting eaten by other fields, but rather splintering into specialists in networking, storage, (virtual) system administration, support, etc.
Finally, I found this quote pretty funny:
Teenagers entering higher education today are already skilled at building personal application spaces on Facebook using software modules. It's a small step to apply those principles to business applications.
"A small step" to go from facebook to a crucial business application? Seems unlikely.
| permalink | related link
The article explains the difference in detail. Now, I can understand why it's too difficult to run Java Web server on OpenVZ for evaluating TPCW benchmarks.
| permalink | related link
There is some good information about adaptive power management at Berkeley. It appears to be a position statement/paper in construction arguing for power management in data centers.
| permalink
Ubuntu 7.10 was released today. You can get it from one of the official mirrors or from our unofficial mirror. Notable new features include:
- Improved support for multiple monitors, rotatable monitors, etc.
- Plug and play printer detection
- NTFS writing support out-of-box
- Kernel "dynamic ticks", meaning that the kernel doesn't have to wake up 1000 times per second any more, thus saving power.
- Full or partial hard disk encryption selectable at install time
Okay, this still isn't "research" news, but I like it.
| permalink | related link
The EPA has issued its report on data center energy consumption.
| permalink
By way of Ars Technica, we find that Citrix (whose software provides virtual Windows desktop environments accessible anywhere, among other things) has purchased XenSource, the commercial arm of the Xen hypervisor virtualization project. Hopefully they'll make it less of a pain to use and deploy Xen.
Also, VMware went public last Tuesday with a successful IPO. Hopefully they'll keep putting out non-commercial freeware like VMware server and player. Maybe we'll some day seen a free (but likely crippled) version of ESX?
| permalink | related link
By way of slashdot, we find that the Linux kernel (2.6.23 and up) now sports three virtualization techniques out-of-box: KVM, Xen (just merged), and Lguest (also recently merged).
Lguest in particular looks interesting, as it doesn't require virtualization hardware support (like KVM), but is as simple as a single modprobe (as opposed to the Xen behemoth). Performance isn't too great right now, though (-30%).
| permalink | related link
This Ars Technica article spotlights the development of power-aware technologies at the chip, system, network, and data center levels. It analyzes recent developments in terms of granularity, i.e. the frequency of reaction. Overall, a well written article.
| permalink | related link
Back Next


text:
Split Rock Lighthouse Brick & Copper
- Overview
- More Info
- Format: Approx. 9.5w x 6d x 5.5 h
- Usually ships in: 3 - 5 business days
- Product ##: SR7532
This brick was part of the interior wall of the lighthouse and the copper was from the original roof of the attached lighthouse service room. During preservation work on the lighthouse in 2008 a few of the bricks and some of the copper was replaced as necessary. In honor of the Centennial we are offering 100 brick/copper art pieces mounted on a metal base suitable for use on desktops or mantels as a piece of history for lighthouse lovers. Price includes shipping.
Please Select
Our Price: $275.00


text:
I'll be gone until Feb 4th or so for work. I work for a local news station and I will be in the desert for 8 days with troops training for Iraq. I leave today!
My new board still hasn't seen water, and is waiting for me when I get home!
So Cal High Desert Surfers RELATED: Longboarders Only Author: antemaj Replies: 3 |
If you could live on any desert island in the world... RELATED: General Chat Author: hyber Replies: 11 |
Surftech Rusty Desert Island vs 9' Longboard RELATED: Surfing Hardware Author: twizzly Replies: 3 |


text:
2013 Year-End Special: Get 1 year of unlimited access for $399 [Save $73 + 1 month free]*
*Introductory rate valid for new individual subscribers only. Corporate accounts not eligible.
1-1 of 1 Items < Prev | 1 | Next >
1. | By: Ghica van Emde Boas; Sergey Ilinsky Publisher: Packt Publishing Publication Date: 09-DEC-2009 Insert Date: 07-APR-2010 Slots: 1.0 | Overview: Backbase 4 RIA Development
Create Enterprise-grade Rich Internet Applications using the Backbase client framework
Create modular and extensible web applications with the Backbase Client Framework
Use XML-based UI components from the extensive Backbase UI library such as tabBox, grid, calendar, comboBox, and toolTip
Create your own UI components using the powerful object-oriented Tag Definition Language
Use powerful data-binding options to create data-driven applications with detailed data grid examples
In Detail
Backbase is a very powerful and complex JavaScript library, with many user...
1-1 of 1 Items < Prev | 1 | Next >


text:
Sloggi Maxi Briefs (6 pack)
These Sloggi maxi briefs offer maximum value, maximum coverage and minimal hassle. They're also made from the softest cotton, for a superior comfortable fit.
These Sloggi maxi briefs have a great shape that sees to your everyday underwear needs. Finished with a logo tag to the waistband, these maxi briefs offer high Sloggi quality. These Sloggi briefs are great for everyday wear.
These Sloggi maxi briefs are the ultimate in comfortable underwear. Wear them under a dress, skirt or trousers for instant style and comfort.
Useful info:- Maxi briefs by Sloggi (6 pack)
- Comfortable soft cotton fabric
- Practical maxi shape
- High rise waist; full coverage
Flexees By Maidenform Easy Up Minimiser Bodybrief
- Price
- £44.00
- Low stock, selling fast
- Delivery
2 reviewsFirm control, satin front tummy panel with minimizer simplex cups. Reduces sizes, not shape. Wide adjustable straps.
Colour: Black, Latte. 81% nylon, 19% elastane. Gusset: Cotton Hand wash only.


text: These are some shoes that were a collaboration for Sneaker Friends 2011 hosted by DJ Greg Street. I wanted to do a theme that had a fashionable pattern with a monotone look. I found these Dunks at a Nike store and fell in love with the red mid-sole with the gum bottom!


text:
Buttoned Shoulder Wrap
Buttoned shoulder wrap offers limitless options & transforms your style in mere seconds! This versatile knit accessory goes from scarf to wrap to shawl to a cardi with a quick flip. Buttons provide the versatility to give you several style-wearing options. Made from earth-friendly, soft bamboo. 64"L x 18"D.
Forgot your password?
Try our Password Recovery Page.


text:
You're watching...
Risky ride: Couple tow granddaughter behind SUV in toy car
Florida grandparents face criminal charges after pulling 7-year-old girl while intoxicated
May 1, 2012
You're watching...
Florida grandparents face criminal charges after pulling 7-year-old girl while intoxicated
May 1, 2012
Also in this playlist...
Auto-advance: ON
Auto-advanceThis transcript is automatically generated
What happened to plain old -- crime.
A Florida couple facing criminal charges after putting their seven year old granddaughter toy car and it -- her behind their suvs.
47 year old Belinda prolonging -- in the passenger seat of her husband drove it about five miles per hour she says it seem like a great idea after.
A couple extra hole you know.
Sonya Henning.
Few Beers.
A big deal.
I didn't mean you result will woo -- the whole time anyway -- And we'll have to see well.
-- -- -- husband -- still bars accused of child endangerment.
Do you lie and driving with a suspended license Belinda is -- supervised release and not allowed to drink or see her granddaughter until police -- It's OK black.
And those are your headlines that changes the story just a bit my kids actually have one of those cars and make them Wear helmets -- picked up little car.
-- -- not being -- you do not till you chill I'm.
-- they're not on the street.
I would not probably -- your dad and I don't like the regular --
Filter by section


text:
Tag Archives: FemShep
Thu, Sep 27, 2012 | 00:07 BST
Mass Effect Trilogy won't have a FemShep cover, but "something special" inbound
Mixed messages from EA and BioWare cause both disappointment and hope among FemShep fans.
Fri, Mar 09, 2012 | 08:40 GMT
ME3 comes out: FemShep aims to Take Back Earth
After the big scores comes game day for the finale of BioWare's space opera RPG series. It's go time for Shepard against the Reapers.
Wed, Feb 22, 2012 | 22:32 GMT
Mass Effect 3 features a reversible cover
BioWare has received the first copies of Mass Effect 3, and posted a celebratory unboxing video with a delightful surprise.
Fri, Feb 10, 2012 | 01:24 GMT
Mass Effect 3 FemShep trailer due tomorrow
If the brief glimpses of FemShep in the new Mass Effect 3 enemies video weren't enough for you, fear not – the promised trailer drops tomorrow.
Sat, Aug 27, 2011 | 20:42 BST
Mass Effect 3 – Default Female Shepard is a redhead
The internet has spoken, and in our opinion, chose wisely: Female Shepard will be a redhead by default in Mass Effect 3. She's also going to grace the cover of the Mass Effect 3 Collector's Edition. The luscious fiery-locked babe pulled in 19,576 votes, and in second came the black-haired gal with 12,838 votes. The brunette version beat the blonde for third with 5,574 and 5,436, respectively. More proof redheads are the best. Thanks GameFront.
Thu, Aug 18, 2011 | 00:31 BST
FemShep fan feedback sought again
Having settled on a facial structure and hairstyle for the new default female Commander Shepard, BioWare is asking fans what colour said hair should be.
Thu, Jul 28, 2011 | 10:34 BST
Female Shepard vocal talent talks voice acting and favourite FemShep
In an interview with Rock, Paper, Shotgun, FemShep VO actor Jennifer Hale has spoken about her range of videogame roles and which of the potential new looks being put forward for Mass Effect 3′s female protagonist is her favourite.
Wed, Jul 27, 2011 | 21:40 BST
Mass Effect 3′s FemShep almost certain to be blonde
The votes are piling up, and it seems Commander Shepard's female form will be chasing the peroxide unicorn.
Mon, Jul 25, 2011 | 09:22 BST
ME3′s default FemShep look open to fan feedback
BioWare is asking Mass Effect fans for feedback on a set of FemShep concepts – although even if a new look is chosen, the iconic ginger will still be available in Mass Effect 3.
Tue, Jul 19, 2011 | 17:13 BST
Loving FemShep: BioWare's first lady finally steps forward
She's a full-blown protagonist in both Mass Effect 1 and 2, but unless you've played her you may never have seen her. Why? We talk to BioWare about the "other" Commander Shepard.
Fri, Jun 17, 2011 | 00:06 BST
Femshep to appear in Mass Effect 3 marketing
After years of pretending she's not a gazillion times better than her male counterpart, EA and BioWare are set to give the female version of Commander Shepard a portion of the attention she deserves.
Wed, May 25, 2011 | 05:28 BST
Wednesday Shorts – SWTOR fanboys, FemShep trailer, five year old makes game
It's quiet. Too quiet. When the enemy (read: E3) comes pouring over them thar hills, we'll be ready for 'em. But in the meantime, here's a small collection of pot-shots.


text:
Christmas Brunch The Ritz-Carlton Café 4750 December 25, 2013 12 p.m. - 3 p.m. ~Raw Bar~ Citrus Poached Shrimp Cocktail Oysters on the Half Shell New Smyrna Clams PEI Mussels Sushi Bar ~Soup~ Butternut Squash Bisque ~Salad Station~ Including Organic Field Greens, Romaine Hearts Local Baby Tomatoes, Olives, Biscuit Croutons, Herb Vinaigrette, Blue Cheese ~Omelet Station~ Including Cage Free Eggs, Egg Whites, Tomatoes, Red Onions, Mushrooms, Jalapenos, Salsa, Bacon, Black Forest Ham, Cheddar Cheese, ~Carving Station~ Roasted Turkey Whole Roasted Prime Rib ~Hot Selection~ Seared Local Fish Winter Vegetable Medley Georgia Cheddar Mashed Potato Sautéed Mayport Shrimp Artichoke Raviolis Corn Bread Stuffing Green Beans Selection of Bread ~Dessert Bar~ Including Spiced Apple Almond Tart, Eggnog Cheesecake, Profiteroles, Black Forest Cake, Gingerbread House Displays, Coffee Crème Brulee Adults $82.00 Children 5 – 12 $25.00 under 5 Complimentary
Christmas Feast To- GO December 25, 2013 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (904) 277-1100 ex. 1290 ~Soup~ Butternut Squash Bisque ~Cold~ Caesar Salad Grilled Heart of Palm and Apple Salad Citrus Poached Shrimp Cocktail Roasted Local Vegetable Display Spinach Arugula Salad ~Choice Of~ 14-16# Whole Roasted Turkey Sage Cornbread Stuffing Or Honey Glazed Ham ~In Addition~ Candied Bourbon Sweet Potatoes with Spiced Pecans, Marshmallow Medley of Winder Vegetables, Brussels Sprouts, Root Vegetables Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Home Style Giblet Gravy Traditional Cranberry Sauce Assorted Rolls Christmas Bouche de Noel ~Choice Of~ French Apple Cranberry Tart Or Florida Strawberry tart Serves up to 6 people $210.00 plus tax & gratuity
New Years Eve Gala The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom December 31, 2013 9 p.m. - 2 am. ~Ice Bar~ Mayport Shrimp Cocktail Bloody Mary Oyster Shooters Trio of Ceviche ~Seafood Station~ Jumbo Lump Crab Cocktail Salmon Tartar, Cobia Tataki, PEI Mussels ~Sushi Station~ Chef Shane's display of Hand Rolled Sushi Rolls ~Antipasti Bar~ Including House Made Pates & Charcuterie, Marinated Olives & Roasted Garlic, Local Garden Giardiniera, Charred Cipollini Onions, Eggplant Caponata with Pine Nuts ~Living Salad Station~ Local Lettuces, Bitter Greens, Chef's Garden Carrots, Pears, Walnuts, Herbed Croutons Marinated Olives, Assorted Dressings ~Artisanal Cheese Display~ ~Carving Station~ Pepper Crusted Beef Prime Rib Caja China Suckling Pig ~Fish~ Seared Local Fish Sousvide Lobster Roasted Pork Belly, Smoked Tomato Romesco, Winter Medley Vegetables, Potato Dauphinoise ~Dessert Bar~ Including Fresh Raspberry Cremeaux Tart, Bailey's Chocolate Mousse Cake, Passion Fruit Mousse with Blackberry Gelee Espresso Crème Brulee $195.00 Per Person


text:
Biological and Environmental Research (BER)
The Office of Biological and Environmental Research is located in Germantown, Maryland. All open federal positions listed below are posted on USAJobs.gov. (Biological and Environmental Research Organization Chart (172KB))
No positions in BER are currently open
Important note: All applicants for federal positions MUST provide unofficial copies of their transcript(s) in order to verify that they meet the educational requirements listed in the announcement. These transcripts must be submitted prior to the close of the announcement by fax to the contact listed in the announcement. Failure to provide this information MAY result in not being referred to the selecting official, however the HR Office will make every effort to contact applicants who do not submit transcripts in order to obtain them by the closing date.
Additional Links


text:
The Minnesota News Council is an independent organization that examines citizens complaints alleging inaccuracy, unfairness or unethical conduct by the media.
For complaints against this newspaper, we invite readers to first contact the editor. If you are not satisfied with our response, we invite you to contact the News Council at:
12 South Sixth St., Suite 1122,
Minneapolis, MN 55402
(612) 341-9357
Fax: 612-341-9358
Brainerd Dispatch ©2013. All Rights Reserved.


text:
Partnership with Franciscan University
Prospectus for 2013
Upcoming Events!!!
Who is Dietrich von Hildebrand?
What is the Legacy Project?
Why is Dietrich von Hildebrand Important Today?
What's New
Advisory Council
A Special Appeal from Alice von Hildebrand
For Translators & Publishers
Make a Donation
Past Events
Audio/Video Archives
Annual Reports
Online Bookstore
Contact Us


text:
Search results for : | fight restart |
We Fight For Food Kinship's Forum
We Fight For Food guild's/kinship's discussion board : )
lord, rings, fight, food, lotro, online, martial, empires, mmorpg, kinship, guildFree forum : Vmans Fight Night
free forum : VFN (Vmans fight night) er den største battle turnering der er, og nogensinde har været på vman. dk!
free, vmans, fight, nightImperial Armed Empire
We will fight to win or fight to die!
imperial, armed, empire, will, fight, die!Resident Evil UnderGround
Who will rise up in the fight against Umbrella or fight with them ? Join an survive the outbreaks.
resident, evil, underground, will, rise, fight, against, umbrella, with, them, join, survive, outbreaksFinish the Fight
501st Legion Journey
Fight the 501st battles, lead the clones to victory in the war, fight as Vader's Fist in the Imperial times, dominate the battlefeild.
free, forum, 501st, legion, journeyFree forum : Fight Of Characters
Free forum : Fight Of Characters or FOC is a Warcraft 3 map.
free, fight, characters, warcraftFree forum : Fight Club's Forum
Free forum : Fight Club's Forum. Free forum : Fight Club's Forum
free, fight, club's, forumFIV
Fight in vain
fight, vainN!ght Fight -Gaming- E-Sports
Free forum : n!F - Gaming " Gaming is Beliving". n!ght Fight -Gaming- E-Sports
free, n!ght, fight, -gaming-, e-sportsThe last battle front
A fight between the surving countrys from alien attacks all the countrys fight in modern day warfare all the countrys v. s eachother v. s the alien invaders called panathans.
last, battle, front, fight, between, surving, countrys, from, alien, attacks, modern, warfare, eachother, invaders, called, panathansThe Fight Club
Free forum : oWo Fight Team
Free forum : Forum for the oWo Fight Team. A team on the new UFC Undisputed 2009 game.
free, fight, team, forum, undisputed, 2009, gameFight For Domination
Tactical Ops 3.4 clan
fight, domination, tactical, clanOCD Forum
free, forum, lets, fight, this, demon, together, help, depression, anxiety, theropyTriumph - We still prevail as CHAMPIONS
Free forum : The champion prevailed, though it was a hard fight
free, triumph, champion, prevailed, though, hard, fightHttp://shess0757.googlepages.com/home
Free forum : Discuss Fight simulator add ons
free, steve's, flight, simulator, forum, discuss, fightFIGHT NIGHT
fight, night, this, battle, groupClanBattles
Fight against the Phallozs Wolve Clan!
clanbattles, fight, against, phallozs, wolve, clan!Guardian Angels
This forum is for Guardian angels a RPG which is still under development.
free, angels, guardian, game, mmorpg, warcraft, custom, world, battel, fight, class, warrior, mage, priest, shaman, hunter, archer, holy, knight, boss, spell, skill, ranger, deathFree forum : Zevs bite fight
Free forum : Forum saveza zevs i bite fighta. Free forum : Zevs bite fight
free, zevs, bite, fightBORROWED RITE
We Duel As One We Fight As One We Are The New Generation Of Yugioh Player's..
duel, fight, generation, yugioh, player'sThe Game Corner
Test your luck an fight your way through the league!
game, corner, test, your, luck, fight, through, league!


text:
A change of policy at Navarre High School over peanut allergies has been the source of confusion for many in the Navarre community.
However Tim Wyrosdick, superintendent of schools for Santa Rosa County, said that the policy was changed so the district would be in accordance with federal law.
In a letter addressed to parents, students and school personnel at NHS, Principal Brian Noack outlined some of the changes implemented at the beginning of the 2012-13 school year.
For the complete story, see the Sept. 27 issue of Navarre Press or subscribe online.


text:
April 25, 2012
Brian Mohr HokieHaven.com
Ponte Vedra, Fla. tight end Kyle Chung made a visit back up to Blacksburg on Saturday. To date, Virginia Tech hadn't pulled the trigger on an offer, but the Hokies remain highly interested. ...More... To continue reading this article you must be a member. Sign Up Now for a FREE Trial
Already a member? Click here to sign in


text:
Wage and Hour Laws
For at least three years now, the U.S. Labor Department and the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (along with a host of analogous state and local agencies) have been on the alert for instances in which workers are erroneously considered to be independent contractors rather than employees. The popular euphemism for these situations is "misclassification" (although this term is also used to describe the different problem of incorrectly treating employees as being exempt from minimum-wage and/or overtime requirements).
What's The Big Deal?
In significant part, this increased attention began with a straightforward motivation: Government revenue collections have steadily declined in the sluggish economy, so officials at all levels are keenly interested in plugging any leaks. As USDOL recently put it in a press release, "misclassification generates substantial losses to the U.S. Treasury and the Social Security and Medicare funds, as well as to state Unemployment Insurance and workers' compensation funds."
For its own part, USDOL has been hard at work ferreting-out "misclassification" under the Fair Labor Standards Act and the similar federal wage laws it enforces. In just the last few weeks, for example, it has announced:
♦ A $105,000 overtime assessment against a Texas employer that had considered workers to be independent contractors for their first 90 days with the company; and
♦ A $101,000 demand against a Virginia employer that had considered individuals performing work on a government-funded construction contract to be independent contractors or to be subcontractors.
Numerous other USDOL "misclassification" investigations, and many private FLSA lawsuits challenging independent-contractor status, are underway across the country.
As we have also highlighted, some states have joined forces with USDOL. And while North Carolina has not yet signed-on as far as we know, Gov. Beverly Perdue's August 22 Executive Order creating a "Task Force on Employee Misclassification" suggests that it might soon do so. Among other things, the Task Force is responsible for:
♦ Identifying sectors of the economy where this occurs most frequently,
♦ Encouraging communication and cooperation between relevant state agencies,
♦ Considering regulatory changes likely to enhance legal enforcement efforts, and (perhaps most significantly),
♦ Identifying "ways to increase the filing of complaints by employees and other members of the public against noncompliant employers . . .." [Emphasis added].
It's Smart To Think Ahead
All of this demonstrates yet again that organizations whose operating models are built even in part upon "contract labor", "freelancers", the oxymoronic term "contract employees", or independent contractors by any other name simply cannot afford to ignore the current enforcement climate. The wise course is to evaluate without delay what the prospects are that such workers can be shown to be true independent contractors under each legal test that might be applied.
Perhaps the very first question should be whether the circumstances of the arrangement lend themselves to independent-contractorship at all. In some situations, it will be unlikely that this status could be successfully defended, taking into account such things as the organization's need to control the worker's activities and all the other operational and managerial considerations involved in meeting the organization's objectives.
Even if the chances seem more favorable, management will want to be sure that is has done everything it can to strengthen its position.
◊ Have a comment or something else to add? Please use our comment feature below.
Employee Status | Employer Status | Enforcement | Government Enforcement | Independent Contractor
The U.S. Labor Department continues to expand the number of jurisdictions and agencies with which it is collaborating to end what it has called "the business practice of misclassifying employees [as independent contractors] in order to avoid providing employment protections." The most recent additions are the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment and the Louisiana Workforce Commission.
The list of those with whom USDOL has memoranda of understanding also includes:
◊ California, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Utah, and Washington,
◊ State labor officials in Hawaii, Illinois, and Montana, and
◊ New York's Attorney General.
The Colorado memorandum (link to copy below) exemplifies the nature of this cooperation. Among other things, the state's Labor Department and USDOL pledge to:
◊ Conduct joint investigations periodically,
◊ Coordinate enforcement activities and provide mutual assistance,
◊ Refer potential violations of statutes enforced by the other,
◊ Develop "methodologies" for exchanging investigative leads and complaints, and
◊ Otherwise share information "as appropriate".
Companies and other organizations might as well assume that any investigation of independent-contractor status by one of these participants will result in the disclosures and referrals the memoranda call for. Keep in mind also that USDOL has entered into a similar arrangement with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.
This attention to the "misclassification" issue is unlikely to subside anytime soon. For instance, there is reason to believe that USDOL's focus upon large homebuilders last fall is now turning outward to many of those companies' subcontractors and vendors.
The wise move for every organization relying even in part upon a contingent of independent contractors continues to be this: Evaluate right now whether there is any vulnerability to a successful claim that those workers are instead employees.
USDOL-Colorado DOLE Agreement.pdf (79.04 kb)
Compliance | Employee Status | Employer Status | Government Enforcement | Independent Contractor
We wrote previously about the announcement of a cooperative alliance between the U.S. Labor Department and the U.S. Internal Revenue Service aimed at ending what the Secretary of Labor called "the business practice of misclassifying employees [as independent contractors] in order to avoid providing employment protections."
If that news was not enough to get everyone's attention, the terms of the "Memorandum of Understanding" between these agencies (link to copy below; copy courtesy of CCH) should cause all employers to take notice. DOL and IRS have agreed to implement their agreement "through enhanced information sharing and other collaboration" led by a "joint IRS-DOL team".
Some Of The Details
Among other things, DOL will "refer to the IRS . . . Wage and Hour Division investigation information and other data that DOL believes may raise Internal Revenue employment tax compliance issues related to misclassification." DOL will also share "Wage and Hour Division training materials and opportunities with the IRS . . .."
For its part, IRS "will evaluate and classify employment tax referrals provided by the DOL and . . . [will] conduct examinations to determine compliance with employment tax laws." And in at least some instances IRS is prepared to "share the employment tax referrals provided by the DOL with state and municipal taxing agencies . . .."
The two agencies have also committed to "coordinate national outreach activities." This will include such steps as "joint national press releases" and "joint messages to national stakeholder organizations." The Memorandum does not identify any of these "stakeholder organizations", but one may hazard an educated guess as to what the identities of at least some of them might be.
The administration's "transparency" mantra has been suspended where the Memorandum is concerned. For example, the document asserts "a need for the government to provide information to other law enforcement bodies without making a public disclosure." DOL and IRS say that they intend to preserve their "legal privileges or other legal protections against disclosure" to outsiders, and they contend that information exchanges between them will not be a "public disclosure" under the federal Freedom of Information Act.
Points To Consider
The many take-aways include these:
◊ Once again, every company or other organization relying even in part upon a contingent of independent contractors should immediately evaluate whether there is any vulnerability to a successful claim that those workers are instead employees.
◊ Every such company or other organization being investigated by DOL should assume that information provided about independent contractors will be given to IRS and, potentially at least, to analogous state or local agencies and officials.
◊ Employers must of course abide by their legal obligations in DOL and IRS investigations and audits. But, within those parameters, management should be careful in deciding (i) what documents and other information to provide, and (ii) how, under what circumstances, and with what caveats to disclose them. DOL and IRS say that they intend to protect certain confidential or private information and trade secrets that are covered by federal laws and regulations. However, an employer cannot be sure whether DOL or IRS will agree with the employer (or even with one another) that each document or item of information is protected against disclosure to some other person or entity, or that a court will agree with DOL's or IRS's views in some later third-party legal action to compel disclosure. And the best of intentions cannot preclude an erroneous, mistaken, or inadvertent release of information to the public.
◊ While the Memorandum's principal focus appears to be worker misclassification, it does not say that the collaboration is restricted to this topic. For instance, the "joint outreach" is said also to encompass "other issues of mutual interest."
DOL IRS Memodandum of Understanding.pdf (216.50 kb)
Add this blog to your feeds or put your e-mail in the box below and hit GO to subscribe by e-mail.


text:
Sue Bee Honey Sweetened Eggnog
1/4 cup Sue Bee Honey
3 cups milk
3/4 tsp nutmeg
2 eggs
1 egg yolk
1 tsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
1/2 tsp vanilla
1. In a medium sized pot, stir milk and nutmeg together while heating over medium temperature.
2. In a small bowl, beat together the eggs, egg yolk, cornstarch and sea salt until combined. Set aside.
3. After the milk has warmed but not boiling, pour 1/2 cup of warm milk into your egg mixture while whisking the eggs to temper them. Pour your egg mixture into the hot milk and continue to whisk until the milk thickens.
4. Once cooked, remove your egg nog from heat and stir in Sue Bee Honey and vanilla. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.


text:
User Tag List
Results 4,795 to 4,811 of 7847
Thread: Singapore Also Can
Netball: Australia retains title at World Netball Championships
By Patwant Singh | Posted: 10 July 2011 2049 hrs
SINGAPORE: Defending champions Australia retained their World Netball Championships title when they beat New Zealand 58-57 in extra time at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in a highly charged encounter.
7,000 noisy fans packed the stadium decked in their team's colours and what a match they got to see, as the two traditional rivals battled it out on court with end-to-end action.
With the teams displaying equal measure of skill, they were deadlocked at 46-46 at full time.
The first half of extra-time saw the teams still tied at 52 points each. With the clock running down in the second half of extra time, Australia's Caitlin Basset finally scored the winning goal to break the hearts of the New Zealand fans.
With the victory, the Australians clinch their 10th World Netball Championships title.
It was also extra special since the team lost to the Kiwis at the Commonwealth Games last year.
Caitlin Basset said: "It's a little bit of payback for Commonwealth Games, I wasn't there myself but I think for the other girls out there who were at the Commonwealth Games, it was just a little bit better for them after losing in Delhi."
From an organisational perspective, the championship has also been a success. Some S$1.7 million worth of tickets have been sold, and the event also attracted about 4,000 visitors from countries like Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Malaysia.
Australian players celebrate after winning the final game against New Zealand at the World Netball Championships in Singapore. Australia beat New Zealand 58-57. (AP Photo/Wong Maye-E)
Get ready to dance, Singapore!
By Evelyn Choo | Posted: 10 July 2011 2229 hrs
SINGAPORE: It started with one person dancing, then it grew to a small group. And in thirty seconds, the basement of ION Orchard came alive on Sunday evening - in a campaign to hype up this year's National Day Parade, called "Step Up Singapore!".
But if that was not enough to win the crowds over, there was a secret weapon - the Chief Executive of the People's Association, Yam Ah Mee.
Mr Yam said: "I'm very happy because the youth were teaching me about their dance steps and I was trying to follow them. I think this way, everyone continues to learn."
The 200 performers came from all walks of life - and only one-third of them were professional dancers. The rest came from dance interest groups of the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Nanyang Technological University, National University of Singapore, the People's Association and Siglap Secondary School.
Patrick Loo, the choreographer of Step Up Singapore!, said: "Two-thirds of them, the aunties, uncles and little ones, they really worked hard. It's so heart-warming. The steps are not the easiest, if you play back on video, I didn't want to make it too easy and I made it very challenging. Yet they went home and practised it like crazy."
Sally Tan, a performer from Frontier Community Club, said: "It's very hard for us to remember all the steps, you see. So the young people were patient and helpful and were willing to teach us. We really enjoyed it."
The rhythm did not end there - the four-and-half-minute dance was captured on camera and will be posted on the official NDP website, in the hope of getting everyone talking.
Yam Ah Mee (in stripes) at the end of the Step Up Singapore! dance sequence.
1,961 NIE graduates set to join teaching fraternity
By Evelyn Choo | Posted: 10 July 2011 0035 hrs
SINGAPORE : Some 1,961 graduates of the National Institute of Education (NIE) will begin their teaching journeys soon.
At the annual Teachers' Investiture Ceremony held over July 6 and 7, three young educators also received national honours for being inspirational teachers.
They are Edwina Cheng, 27, from Compassvale Secondary School; Syed Faisal, 29, from Greendale Secondary School; and Jerine Teh, 29, from Teck Ghee Primary School.
At Greendale Secondary School, history lessons are taught with the help of games and video clips and frequent class interaction on the blogosphere.
Teacher Syed Faisal said it's these little things that develop his students beyond the formal curriculum.
His zeal and inspirational leadership won him the Outstanding Youth in Education Award.
He said: "It is really that continued perseverance and that continued belief and conviction that every student can change, every student can be better at the end of their four years; I think that is my main motivation."
And a new batch of graduates will soon join Mr Syed in nurturing Singapore's future.
For 29-year-old valedictorian Jonathan Leo Ng, the teacher's pledge signifies a personal triumph.
He had initially failed to qualify for a degree programme because of his low grades, but persevered for the love of teaching.
In two and a half years, he has graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education - with four awards.
His years at the NIE also led him to meet his wife, who teaches as well.
"I've always wanted to do a degree, especially in Physical Education because I really feel that PE is a very important vehicle where we can impart very important values to students. And the whole time I was upset, the lady behind me and supporting me was my wife Rowena, and I'd really like to thank her for being there for me," said Ng, NIE graduate and Valedictorian for the Teachers' Investiture Ceremony.
But it's certainly not the end of the learning journey for these graduates. The Ministry of Education is looking at creating more opportunities for teachers to pursue further studies.
"Starting this July, teachers pursuing a part-time Master's degree can opt for part-time teaching. This will reduce their workload and enable them to devote more time their studies," said Education Minister Heng Swee Keat.
Notably, this year saw 120 graduands being conferred a Diploma in Special Education - a 26 per cent increase from 2010.
- CNA /ls
Jonathan Leo Ng (R)
S'pore has made excellent progress in water R&D: panel
Posted: 10 July 2011 0042 hrs
SINGAPORE : The International Advisory Panel (IAP) on Singapore's Environment and Water Technology industry said Singapore has made excellent progress in research and development in the last five years.
It also urged Singapore to focus on additional areas and opportunities, as it builds on the good work in water research and technology.
The panel, which held its annual meeting on July 8 as part of the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW), said the Environment and Water Industry (EWI) programme should continue to help companies and researchers to better translate their new technologies to viable products for the market and export.
In addition, it is imperative to build talent and develop the skills set in marketing, product development and project management.
The panel urged Singapore to look into understanding and exploiting the nexus and potential synergies between water, energy and waste management, in the context of growing demand for resources and climate change uncertainties.
It said there are research and business opportunities to develop solutions to further harness energy and resources from used water and solid waste.
Co-Chair of the panel, Lord Ronald Oxburgh, expressed confidence that Singapore can take to lead the growth of water industry in the region.
He said: "Singapore has progressed very well on water R&D and developed a niche in practical water technologies. There remain opportunities in the water, energy and waste sectors to be tapped, for example, how energy and useful materials can be cost-effectively recovered, and how greater efficiency can be achieved in water-energy or waste-energy areas.
"With the strong support of the government, I believe that the industry is ready to capitalise on the rapidly growing business opportunities in the region and beyond."
These views were highlighted by national water agency PUB in a statement on July 8.
PUB said Singapore is presently home to a flourishing water industry of more than 70 international and local companies, a significant increase from 50 in 2006.
Investments by these companies in the last five years, when fully realised, will contribute S$590 million of annual value-added to the Singapore economy and generate 2,300 professional and skilled jobs.
PUB said Singapore-based companies have also been doing well in the international water markets, with a cumulative project value reaching S$8.4 billion since 2006.
Through various incentive schemes under the Environment and Water Industry Programme Office's (EWI) Environment and Water Research Programme, there is now a vibrant research community of 23 R&D centres working on more than 60 projects on leading-edge technologies.
- CNA /ls
Govt studying ways to integrate private and public sector healthcare
By Hoe Yeen Nie | Posted: 09 July 2011 2301 hrs
SINGAPORE: The growing number of doctors switching over to private practice - with some not even serving out their bonds - has raised some concern.
The government is now exploring a more sustainable framework to involve them in public sector healthcare.
Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam said this at a dinner to celebrate the anniversary of private healthcare provider Raffles Medical Group.
40 percent of specialists in Singapore are now in private practice, but most Singaporeans still rely on public sector care.
And the concern is that given the ageing population, there will not be enough doctors in the public sector to meet the healthcare needs.
Mr Tharman, who is also the Finance and Manpower Minister, said solutions have to be found to avoid the situation from being a "zero-sum game".
He said private doctors could conduct medical training or treat subsidised patients.
But he said the public sector will remain the anchor of the healthcare system in Singapore.
The Health Ministry is also reviewing its financing, incentives, regulation frameworks and clinical programmes to better integrate private and public healthcare services.
Mr Tharman said costs will remain affordable for both patients and tax payers, especially those in the middle-income groups.
"Improving healthcare for Singaporeans must involve both the public and private sectors. They both comprise our national healthcare system. This means a shared responsibility to meet the needs of our people and ensure the sustainability of the healthcare system as a whole. We need all hands on deck to manage the healthcare challenges of the future," he said.
Integration could involve the sharing of electronic medical records.
The next phase of the National Electronic Health Record system will involve community hospitals, general practitioners and eventually nursing homes, and Mr Tharman said it is worth exploring how private hospitals could be roped in too.
Mr Tharman also called on practitioners to sustain the values of the medical profession, and said that patients' interests and safety must always come first.
"It is therefore critical, even with business playing a legitimate role in medical practice, that we guard against any drift from the time-honoured values and ethics of the profession. Singapore's reputation for medical excellence is a collective honour and responsibility, and I hope to see the medical leadership across the country coming together to sustain this," he said.
- CNA/ir
More than just plants
By Valerie Tan | Posted: 11 July 2011 1915 hrs
SINGAPORE: Rain water usually goes to the drain first after a downpour, but not along a stretch of road at the Dawson housing estate in Singapore.
Under a lush landscape of plants are what engineers call bio-retention basins, built earlier this year, to collect, and more importantly, clean rainwater.
Tay Bee Choo, Head of the Landscape Unit with the Housing & Development Board (HDB), said: "As the water runs towards these plants, these plants, have some fur, hairiness to it. It helps to trap silt. Then as the water settles into the pit, the roots in this pit will absorb the nutrients that is dissolved in the water."
What is then left is clean rainwater, which is collected and directed into the main drain.
Ms Tay added: "If we have more than an hour of rain, and the basin is full, the excess rain water will have a chance to flow into sumps. It's designed such that it is just below the level of the road and the footpath."
Even though man-made, these systems are essentially letting nature do its job by having the plants clean the water. The idea is not new and unique to Singapore, as it has been implemented in countries like Costa Rica, America and Australia.
But it is now adapted to Southeast Asia's tropical climate, with different soil and plants like the purple fountain grass.
Ms Tay said: "We barely need maintenance because if we choose the right type of plants, the only time you need to come in is when the plants overgrow, then you may need to trim it down."
There are now plans to build more of these basins in other parts of Singapore, starting with new roads and towns like for example, Choa Chu Kang.
The bio-retention basins are located under plants like these, which help trap silt in rainwater.
Reflection of a typical singaporean
I received this poem from a Singaporean.
Thought it's so funny - So I shall post it in this thread.
I am Ong Ah Tee living in Kampong Chai Chee
Life used to be simple and HAPPY
I worked hard in my STUDIES
I learned A-B-C, and everything from 1, 2, and 3.
Primary school was quite easy I passed PSLE
Then I went to SECONDARY
The subjects include HISTORY, GEOGRAPHY
Physics, Biology and CHEMISTRY
After O levels I went to JC
They said you live in Singapore very LUCKY
This is a small humid tropical COUNTRY
Surrounded by unknown potential ENEMIES
Boys turned 18 must go to ARMY for the tour of duty
After that we may continue our Studies
The girls can just sit back, relax, and watch TV
They come to this world only to "lim kopi, kway jit chee"
No one lives on free meals or depends on CHARITY
I want to take up IT, but I had no money to go to University or Poly
So I went to work at FACTORY
Working hard to earn a little lousy SALARY
After CPF and INCOME TAX, I have just enough money to buy ROTI and ride in MRT.
My bosses show me no SYMPATHY
Mumbling over my shoulder daily: "HURRY, HURRY and HURRY !"
Accusing me of always trying to get MC
But my sickness was due to over stretch OT
Going home after midnight by TAXI
And they pay me only bus fee
My colleague likes me because of my honesty and can easily bully
They said I don't know how to carry.
I Park-Tor and became STEADY
Finally had to MARRY
Because gahment gave baby bonus MONEY
I lost money holding Wedding Dinner PARTY
Cheeky friends donating only cheap PANTY
After marriage, nothing was EASY
In one year, I became DADDY
I can't support my family and our BABY
Being tied down for life to repay 2 rooms HDB and rising monthly utilities to PUB
My bank account has NO MONEY
POSB balance is almost EMPTY
DBS wants to charge me EXTRA FEE
Insisting that "Nothing is FREE!"
So I moonlight as KARANG GUNI
Many times I want to jump MRT
But that is not EASY
My wife cries: "Who is going to support me and our BABY?"
So I can't MATI
I went to seek assistance from the MP
His reply was simple and easy
"Vote for me, vote for me, vote for me".
He never tells me any convincing Policy.
How to help the poor with more GST?
Why I cannot have pay increase but they can have increase?
Before, my MP said "Vote for me, we give you sweeties".
Now, they want to increase salary, because "You voted me"..
They claim they made good economy for our country.
They benchmark themselves using GDP.
They said, "To get the best man, you have to pay high fee"
otherwise, they will join MNC. / /
And all your 'char bor' become maids in other COUNTRY.
Next will be the GST.
My boss say "no" to increase in salary,
It's really make me worry.
Our Health Ministry said let GP set their consultation fee.
If the GP charges high fee, don't let them see.
No money, how can healthy
If fall sick, can only mati
In hospital, can afford Class C.
I don't mind all nurses are aunty,
But only one doctor to see
No money for operation, I Tan Si.
That sounds familiar but not necessarily "typical Singaporean".
For many responsible parents all over the world without high education and proper training, their incomes are low and the future seems bleak.
It becomes worrisome when the governments they voted in on the basis of their pre-election promises reneged on these promises and they became worse by being corrupt and enriching themselves while in power. So negative thoughts cloud the simple minds of the voters who think they are helpless and unable to make the desired changes.
Yes the "poet" is poking fun at the Singapore system with Singaporean examples but these "fears" could well be the same of the peoples from other countries.
It awakens the minds of others who are similarly affected and wanting to do something to redress the situation. But most democratic countries will have to wait for another opportunity at the polls, while some may never have the chance to see changes made to their satisfaction. At the extremes, demonstrations, chaos and riots may rule the day and new governments will emerge to take charge. Yes, indeed we are still witnesssing such unprecedented action in the African continent. But will they be able to deliver and change lives for the better?
I suppose no country in the world is immuned to inflation, which is now sweeping the globe and other shortcomings. No country can claim to have a perfect political system and a perfect government that only cares for its people's welfare. A country may also lack the expertise and resources to organise and implement changes necessary for improving their citizens' lives.
Singapore is no exception. But increasingly Singaporeans are having a bigger say in how the country should be managed. Singaporeans have recently made their voice heard through the polls and the government is listening with greater interest.
It is no mean matter to upgrade Singapore from a third world country to first world status in barely half a century. This must mean the government has done some good. Certainly the art and science of governing can be improved and a higher standard has been called for. Shortcomings and inequalities are reviewed and solutions, though may be imperfect, will have to be found in due course. It will take time but meanwhile the "typical Singaporean" should arm himself with upgrading his skills to prepare for a more demanding future.
... until the next General Elections.
Pardon me for extending my head over the Causeway but I don't believe that works anymore in this era - whilst the current Singapore government is doing a good job from then until now, the outlet for dissent through a borderless medium is slowly bringing the imperfections to view, putting it at greater scrutiny than ever before - each fault magnified in the eyes of more demanding citizens.
The 'grateful generation' will eventually give way to the modern group of people who demand greater say in a government dominated throughout the five decades by a group of elite members. As mentioned before, I'm surprised that of all the Singaporeans I know personally bar one out of some seven people are somewhat dissatisfied, with another apathetic about her place in the country's governance. You could probably guess that they are all young professionals between the age of 25 - 36.
Expecting a retort to look at my own backyard, I'll go on the record to say that I find the current opposition to be a good thing to establish a strong check and balance that helps to force the ruling government to improve - gradual change is better than standing still, sayeth the old proverb.
I agree that time has changed and the younger generation, being better educated than their parents by and large, look at things differently and this is not necessarily bad. That's why they want more opposition MPs to serve as checks and balances for a start.
However, it remains to be seen how effective such an arrangement will become in our Parliament for the next four years. Remember, opposition for opposition's sake is not a solution. It will merely be a waste of time and resources. And an impasse could well lead to undesirable consequences.
I rather see a gradual and smooth transition so that good ideas can be implemented with added contribution from the opposition. Unless of course the government is not heeding the requests, plight and desires of the people. If people's lives can be improved, that would be great.
Singapore back in Malaysia Cup from 2012
Jul 13, 2011
By Lee Min Kok
(L) Douglas Moore, (C) Fandi Ahmad. Our very own soccer legend, Fandi Ahmad is seen holding up the Malaysia Cup which Singapore last won in 1994. -- PHOTO: NP
SEVENTEEN years after a Singapore football team last participated in the Malaysia Cup, the Republic has decided to make a return across the causeway.
On Tuesday afternoon, the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) signed a memorandum of understanding with the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) at the latter's headquarters in Selangor, announcing a landmark partnership.
It will see a Singapore team - called the Singapore Lions - take part in the Malaysian Super League, Malaysia and FA Cups in 2012.
This team will comprise national players below the age of 23, five players above the age of 23 and will be complemented by the quota of foreign players allowed in accordance with the competition rules.
In turn, a Malaysian team - the Malaysian Tigers - which also comprises mainly Under-23 national players, will join the S-League.
Under the four-year agreement, two other key initiatives were also mooted, which includes an increase in friendly matches between the national teams of the two countries, as well as the birth of a new annual tournament which will see the winners of both leagues do battle over two legs.
Said FAS president Zainudin Nordin: 'There is always a special romance between Singapore and Malaysian football. The key points of this partnership cannot be achieved overnight, but these are positive developments and it's a win-win situation for both parties.'
Singapore drafting action plan against *** & labour trafficking
By S Ramesh | Posted: 12 July 2011 2339 hrs
SINGAPORE: Singapore is currently drafting a National Plan of Action for the country to tackle both *** and labour trafficking.
It is also studying the possibility of future accession to the United Nations Trafficking in Persons Protocol.
These points were made by Singapore's Inter-Agency Taskforce on Trafficking in Persons in response to the announcement that Singapore was upgraded to "Tier 2" from "Tier 2 Watchlist" in the recent US Trafficking in Persons Report 2011.
The taskforce said that as Singapore grows as a hub for travel, tourism and economic activity, it expects to become an increasingly attractive potential destination for human trafficking syndicates.
So the country recognises the need to continually step up efforts in increasing vigilance and responsiveness towards this threat.
The taskforce is co-chaired by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
It coordinates anti-trafficking initiatives and policy alignment between government agencies in Singapore.
The taskforce includes representatives from the Singapore Police Force, Immigration & Checkpoints Authority of Singapore, Ministry of Community Development, Youth & Sports, Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Attorney-General's Chambers.
The formation of the taskforce underscores the seriousness with which the government views trafficking and aims to improve efforts in tackling this abhorrent international crime.
To fight trafficking, Singapore adopts a 4 'P's strategy aimed at prevention, prosecution, protection and partnership.
This strategy emphasises constructing safeguards against human trafficking, prosecuting perpetrators, protecting victims and cooperating with other governments and civil society to encourage reporting and information sharing.
On its Monday's meeting in Singapore with Mr Luis Cdebaca, the US Ambassador-at-Large for Trafficking in Persons Matters, the taskforce said it took the opportunity to clarify factual inaccuracies within the US TIP Report's country narrative on Singapore.
The report had stated that "the government did not prosecute or convict any offenders of labour trafficking during the reporting period".
But Singapore had previously informed the US that it had prosecuted eight labour trafficking cases as reported.
On claims that there were "no criminal prosecutions or convictions of employers or employment agencies who withheld passports of foreign workers", Singapore had informed the US that three employment agencies were prosecuted in 2010 for persistently withholding of workers' passports and fined between S$1,200 and S$2,000.
The Singapore government also investigates complaints of wrongful confinement of workers by repatriation companies.
In 2010, a staff member of a repatriation company was sent to jail for voluntarily causing hurt.
The employers of the foreign workers were given stern warnings for abetment to wrongful restraint.
Singapore stresses that it takes a serious view of crimes related to trafficking in persons and is constantly reviewing laws, policies and enforcement practices to better address the issue.
- CNA/ir
What do you love about Singapore?
Posted: 12 July 2011 2059 hrs
SINGAPORE: A short-film competition called ciNE65 that is dedicated to the Singapore story was launched on Tuesday.
Budding filmmakers, both local and foreign, can submit a film no longer than three minutes that captures what they love or find unique about Singapore.
There will also be workshops on film-making. These are meant to help give participants the necessary skills or tips to create the film.
The deadline for entries is September 30. Winning entries will be showcased in November. They will also be submitted for overseas film festivals and competition.
Winners will receive both cash and product prizes.
Actress/comedian Irene Ang , a judge for ciNE65, said: "Instead of hiding behind the computer, and writing online, I think this is something they can put their thoughts into action. They can share a piece of their scene so as to share them with fellow Singaporeans."Details of the competition are available at www.cine65.sg .
- CNA/ck
Three Team Singapore athletes selected for Dream 2012 Award
By Tan Yo-Hinn / Sharon See | Posted: 11 July 2011 2141 hrs
Photos 1 of 1
Tao Li
SINGAPORE: Three Team Singapore athletes have been selected for the "Dream 2012 Award".
Swimmer Tao Li and table tennis players Isabelle Li and Pang Xuejie - each received S$3,500.
The award is an initiative by the British Chamber of Commerce and the Singapore Sports School.
The school's principal Deborah Tan, received the cheque on behalf of the athletes from the chamber, which has been handing out monetary incentives since 2005 to selected Singapore athletes with the potential to do well at the Olympics.
It was started to mark Britain's successful bid at the 117th International Olympic Committee Session in Singapore in 2006 to host the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
Tao Li will compete in the World Aquatics Championship in Shanghai later this month, but said the focus remains on doing well at next year's London Olympics, where she is aiming for a medal in the 100m butterfly event.
Tao Li said: "I don't feel a lot of pressure on me, but what I want to do is to improve my world ranking and that is just a step for next year's Olympic Games. And whether this time round, I do good or bad, I still got to move on. The big game is the Olympics."
For those who miss the rivalry ...
Singapore to play in the Malaysia Cup again from next year
by Shamir Osman
04:45 AM Jul 13, 2011
SELANGOR - After a 17-year hiatus, Singapore will play in the Malaysia Cup from next year - to the delight of those who have been pining for a return to the competition's heady days.
Yesterday, the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) and the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU), which takes effect next year.
Under the four-year agreement, the Malaysian under-23 side will play in the S-League and Singapore's two cup competitions while its Singapore counterparts will ply their trade in the Malaysian Super League and its two domestic cup tournaments. Each team comprises 25 under-23 players and five seniors, with an option of utilising three or four foreign players depending on the regulations of the respective leagues.
A new competition will pit the S-League champions against the winners of the Malaysian Super League over two legs, while the Singapore Cup winners will play the Malaysia Cup winners at home and away. More international friendlies between the two countries - from the various age-group levels up to the senior national team - are also in store.
The MOU between the FAS and the FAM comes amid a breakthrough in bilateral relations, which was first set in motion in May last year after a meeting between Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his Malaysian counterpart Najib Razak. The two leaders announced after the meeting that an agreement had been reached on outstanding issues concerning the Points of Agreement (POA), breaking a 20-year deadlock. Earlier this month, the POA - which included a land swap deal - was implemented.
FAS president Zainudin Nordin hailed the FAS-FAM agreement as an "important milestone" for both countries. Mr Zainuddin said: "The old on-field rivalry ... has thrilled fans for decades and I'm sure it will continue to do so for years to come."
FAM deputy-president Abdullah Al-Haj added: "We hope to revive the glory days of the Malaysia Cup when Singapore used to play on Malaysian soil ... We love Singapore and we miss the rivalry ... and I hope this opens the door to more collaboration."
Singapore football legend Fandi Ahmad told MediaCorp that the various collaborations under the MoU "will give the interest in the game a big shot in the arm".
He said: "I like to see our national selectors get a bigger pool of players to choose from, so this cooperation can only be good for Singapore football. It opens another avenue to expose our young footballers to competition, and in another country. We've always had a close relationship with Malaysian football."
Courts Singapore chief executive Terry O'Connor - a long-time supporter of Singapore football - reiterated that the higher level of interest in football - as a result of the collaborations - will have a "positive effect" on attendances at S-League matches. In January, Courts had inked a two-year sponsorship deal worth S$1 million with the Young Lions team.
He said: "We got involved ... to help with youth development and the game at the national level, and we are well-placed to achieve this even more now."
Amid excitement over the return of "Malaysia Cup fever", the FAS and FAM acknowledged kinks need to be ironed out, such as scheduling of the respective leagues and logistics involved in housing the teams. To that end, a working committee will be formed.
Match-fixing and a dispute over gate receipts had prompted Singapore to exit the Malaysian League and Malaysia Cup in 1994. FAM general-secretary Azzudin Ahmad believes that, 17 years on, the two countries are better equipped to handle the thorny issues.
He told MediaCorp: "That match-fixing demon hasn't died down, but should there be any attempt against us, we are very much stronger as two federations fighting the same war. We've got our own task force, and we'll see how we can work with the FAS on this."
From next year ...
- A Malaysian team, which will play in the S-League, League Cup and Singapore Cup, will be based here.
- A Singaporean team will play in the Malaysian Super League, Malaysian FA Cup and Malaysia Cup.
- Both teams will comprise under-23 players, five seniors and have the option of fielding foreign players based on the rules of the respective leagues.
- The S-League champions will play the Malaysian Super League champions at home and away while the Singapore Cup winners will also play the Malaysia Cup winners over two legs.
- More international friendlies will be held between the two countries, from youth to senior level.
Former Singapore internationals Samad Allapitchay (second from left) and Lee Bee Seng (far right) became household names when they played in the Malaysia Cup. PHOTO COURTESY FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORELast edited by Loh; 07-13-2011 at 12:17 AM.
I greeted the 'mutual separation' bit with a tinge of sadness when Singapore decided to setup its own football league instead of continuing as part of the Malaysian venture as it seemed to have been a regular thing to see Singapore vs the football associations here.
The return of Singapore to the Malaysia Cup is a throwback to the olden days when some of Asia's best, let alone ASEAN, went head to head in the competition when glory and pride reigned supreme in the minds of the players instead of the monetary rewards and incentives, when players were bank clerks or electricians during the day, fantastic footballers in the evening. Zainal Abidin Hassan, Santokh Singh, Dollah Salleh, Soh Chin Aun, John Hunter, Alan Davidson, Fandi Ahmad, Burhan Abu Samah etc. I actually followed the national football league as feverishly as I did the English competition.
And how could I forget about Super Mokh - one of Asia's best during his heyday - even the Koreans fear this guy.
Similar Threads
Where can i find Protech Grip in singapore? (singapore)
By SunPower in forum GripReplies: 4: 11-02-2010, 01:10 PM -
Children Coaching < 12 yrs old in Singapore - Central West Singapore (Depot Road)
By Dominic Seow in forum SingaporeReplies: 0: 09-08-2010, 11:24 PM -
FYI: Singapore Open Telecast in Singapore!
By modious in forum Singapore Open 2002Replies: 2: 09-18-2002, 10:08 AM


text:
title is pretty self explanitory
note to mods- i've read the new rules of this forum- I honestly don't think this is trolling or blatantly racist
title is pretty self explanitory
note to mods- i've read the new rules of this forum- I honestly don't think this is trolling or blatantly racist
Last edited by johnnynoname; 09-27-2013 at 07:05 AM. Reason: wording/spelling
btw- 11 pages by monday
No. Whites will never be shown the racial sensitivity that they show others. The fact that some idiots say that only whites can be racist should've told you that your sensitivity and understanding not only won't be reciprocated, won't be appreciated, won't be acknowledged, it'll be held against you for not being good enough.
Honky ? What does that even mean ? I don't think there's one word you could call me, that I give a shit about. 25 years ago , would be a different story.
I actually asked some of the black dudes at one of my restaurants, what Honky actually ment?? I guess it means that your the kind of white guy who when he's driving & see's a black chick walking - you honk your horn but you dont stop to actually say hi or ask her out.
So I guess your shy in asking out a hot black chicks - basically? I dont think we will ever get to the "H-word" level on that.
No, but maybe honkey will.
Honkey doesn't have the staying power that the enwurd has.
When was the last time you heard an enwurd say "honkey"?
From Wiki:
Honky may derive from the term "xonq nopp" which, in the West African language Wolof, literally means "red-eared person" or "white person". The term may have originated with Wolof-speakingslaves brought to the US.[2]
Honky may also be a variant of hunky, which was a deviation of Bohunk, a slur for Bohemian-Hungarian immigrants in the early 1900s.[3] Honky may have come from coal miners in Oak Hill, West Virginia. The miners were segregated; blacks in one section, whites in another. Foreigners who could not speak English, mostly from Europe, were separated from both groups into an area known as "Hunk Hill". These male laborers were known as "Hunkies."[4]
I'm a hunky, red-eared devil!
Klaatu barada nikto
i always heard that honky came from the way we talk. as in we have higher pitched voices and it sounded more nasaly to them.
i also like this one:
Honky, when used as a pejorative meaning white, was first used in 1967 by black militants within SNCC seeking a rebuttal for the term ******. They settled on a familiar word they felt was disparaging to certain Americans of European descent; hunkie meaning an American of Slavic or Hungarian descent.[1][2]
The word "honky" as a pejorative for caucasians comes from "bohunk" and "hunky". In the early 1900's, these were derogatory terms for Bohemian, Hungarian, and Polish immigrants. According to Robert Hendrickson, author of the Encyclopedia of Word and Phrase Origins, African-American workers in Chicago meat-packing plants picked up the term from white workers and began applying it indiscriminately to all Caucasians.
This forum requires that you wait 10 seconds between posts. Please try again in 28068 seconds.
Mike Tyson prefers using "white pussy"
Uhhhhhhhh... Huh?
What about "cracker?" Black people throw that word around like it's going out of style..


text:
Open de Nice Côte d'Azur
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Open de Nice Côte d'Azur
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Last edited by SirBloody Idiot; 15-03-2011 at 03:03 AM.
Trofeo Paolo Corazzi II
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Last edited by SirBloody Idiot; 15-03-2011 at 03:01 AM.
Man, I have so underutilised my mod powers.
Please accept me!
Name: Brian Benchmark
Age: 24
Handedness: Right
Surface: Gravel
Tall, strong, handsome. Loves walking along the beach and riding horseback. Budding poet mainly the realm of biting internet wit. Resemblance to Sandy Roberts a plus.
Last edited by SirBloody Idiot; 01-03-2011 at 08:12 AM.
Parmi | #1 draft pick | Jake King is **** | PM me for my list of CW posters you shouldn't talk cricket with in Cricket ChatCome and Paint Turtle
The one, the only CW Black
Code:47.3 W Coppinger to Heads Smacked the ball straight into the groin of Iwuajoku who has fallen over, miraculously with the ball still caught in his scrotal area! Out!
Can I be entered for the French Open Qualifiers please? Probably won't get in, but it'll be fun trying.
My Supporting XI: V Sehwag, T Iqbal, S Katich (c), K Sangakkara, S Chanderpaul, E Morgan, S Al Hasan, M Rahim (+), G Swann, D Steyn, Z Khan
In for the West.
Messi scores on the rebound.
Founder of ESAS - Edgar Schiferli, the best associate bowler
A follower of the schools of Machiavelli, Bentham, Locke, Hobbes, Sutcliffe, Bradman, Lindwall, Miller, Hassett and Benaud
Member of JMAS, DMAS, FRAS and RTDAS
Originally Posted by Adolf Grünbaum
NooooooO! Don't let a good thing die! Very sad day for CW when then Tennis ends. No Dev League, no TenSim, no CW Soccer. All the fun will have gone out of the place.
Anyway, I'm happy to enter the team tourney, but otherwise it'll be Nice to go to Nice. Need more practise on Clay before the French.
Fascist Dictator of the Heath Davis Appreciation Society
Supporting Petone's Finest since the very start - Iain O'Brien
Adam Wheater - Another batsman off the Essex production line
Also Supporting the All Time #1 Batsman of All Time Ever - Jacques Kallis and the much maligned Peter Siddle.
Vimes tells it how it is:
Odds on me getting a WC for Roland Garros? I'll go in the qualifiers anyway, else I'll play at Nice.
RIP Craig Walsh (Craig) 1985-2012
Proudly supporting the #2 cricketer of all time.
In for whatever's best. Probably need a rest though.
Appreciate Swanneh For The Genius He Is.
Bore off, seriously.
The quotes may, or may not, read differently in context
Sad to see this go...very sad indeed.
Mustard made a name for himself at the Season 1 French Open, so hopefully he can repeat that.
Count me in for the Teams Event.
Cricketweb Colts Captain
I'm a member of Club KerryOriginally Posted by Richard
I'm Green
The color of immortality, nature and envy - you are truly a unique person. While clearly the color of nature, you also symbolize rebirth, fertility and hope in the world. On the other side of the spectrum, a natural aptitude to money with green coming to signify money and possibly even *********!
I'm going to go for the challenger event in Asia. I want to try and win a tournament before this ends!
There are currently 1 users browsing this thread. (0 members and 1 guests)


text:
Headlines in Reproductive Medicine December 10, 2013
A woman's age affects the outcome of every single step of IVF treatment, according to a University of Aberdeen study published today in PLOS ONE. This is the first study of its kind to break down failure rates for each stage of IVF for different age groups.
Headlines in Reproductive Medicine December 09, 2013
Although the demand for infertility treatment is rising, the high cost may deter some couples from seeking care. Researchers from the University of California-San Francisco assessed direct out-of-pocket costs for couples undergoing fertility treatment. Those using medication only had the lowest out-of-pocket expenses at $912, while those using in vitro fertilization (IVF) had the highest at $19,234. The results, published in The Journal of Urology®, will help inform couples who seek infertility care and the physicians who counsel them.
Headlines in Reproductive Medicine December 05, 2013
A woman has begun a legal bid to prevent her dead husband's frozen sperm from being destroyed.
While fertility treatments in vogue since the early 1970s led to a dramatic increase in multiple births, subsequent reduction in the practice of transferring three or more embryos has caused a drop in births of triplets and higher-order multiples, a national survey showed.
Headlines in Reproductive Medicine December 04, 2013
In a dimly-lit arcade in downtown Shanghai, shopkeeper Xia Zihan holds out a glinting, yellow-glass carving of the fertility goddess Guanyin, a range she says is starting to sell well after China relaxed its single-child policy last month.
ASRM Bulletins December 03, 2013
ASRM provided Choosing Wisely with recommendations on common tests for the evaluation of infertility that should be questioned by physicians in consultation with their patients before being ordered.
Headlines in Reproductive Medicine December 03, 2013
In the five years since the "Octomom" case, big multiple births have gone way down, but the twin rate has barely budged. Now fertility experts are pushing a new goal: one.
Headlines in Reproductive Medicine December 02, 2013
Even before Marc and Sallie Bailey started their ninth fertility treatment, they knew it would be their last. The couple had spent more than three years and $70,000 trying to conceive. Now they were burning Marc's military leave to travel 700 miles from Kentucky to New Jersey to work with a private specialty clinic.
EMD Serono Inc., a Rockland-based biopharmaceutical company with nearly 900 employees in Massachusetts, announced Monday the launch of TocopheRx, a Boston spin-off company that will focus on infertility treatments.
ASRM Bulletins October 29, 2013
The Governor signed into law AB 460, a bill to protect infertility insurance coverage decisions from discrimination based on sexual orientation. Insurance coverage for infertility is based on a definition of infertility that requires the inability to conceive a pregnancy or carry a pregnancy to a live birth after a year or more of regular sexual relations without contraception. Failure to have an opposite sex partner renders this definition impractical, hence the need for legislation. Language in the bill clarified that nothing in this bill should interfere with the clinical judgment of a physician and surgeon, and that insurers and HMOs are prohibited from making coverage decisions on a discriminatory basis.
Members are allowed to have direct input in shaping policies and protocols in their area of expertise through ASRM affiliated societies, professional groups, and special interest groups.
Affiliates: SART | SMRU | SREI | SRBT | SRS
Professional Groups: ARM | LPG | MHPG | NPG
Special Interest Groups: AESIG | CAMSIG | ChSIG | CSIG | EndoSIG | EPSIG | ERSIG | FPSIG | FSIG | HDSIG | GCSIG | IRMSIG | MSIG | NutriSIG | PAGSIG | PGDSIG | RISIG | RMSCBSIG | SSIG | TSIG | WC


text:
Ok so today tech finally posted on the site lol, beside his busy schedual we only have ourselves to blame for him not posting as much (spam, fighting, wars, juggalo vs techn9icians, doubting its him etc.)
SO, i decided to make this post as an attempt to get Tech to see this and see his fans want him to post more often, and still feel him no matter what path he takes.
Tech said "all i wana hear is my people say Tech go 'head and do you!"
I'm attempting a petition-like thread were we ONLY reply with "Tech go 'head and do you!"
No discussion, no other topics, no bullshitting, just "Tech go 'head and do you!" cause thats all he wants to hear.
Chances are it won't work because people can't be serious here, but i have hope that we can all be serious for the only reason were here, Tech N9ne. now I'll start off.
Hopefully it can get featured and Tech reads it and posts more often when he sees his people saying it.
I hope this goes well..
if it needs bumping, bump it with "Tech go 'head and do you!" again.
first off.. this topic is just radiating epic gayness.. like siikes i think you want to suck techs cock...
with that said. tech go head and do you... but if "you" is more songs like o.g. and those horrendous tracks on the strange days sampler.. then you should go ahead and stop doing you and start doing the old you.
/start flaming.
Tech N9ne 'Therapy' Available Now!
Prozak 'We All Fall Down' Available Now!
Krizz Kaliko 'Son of Sam' Now Available!
Stevie Stone '2 Birds 1 Stone' In Stores Now!
Tech N9ne 'Something Else' In Stores Now!
¡MAYDAY! "Believers" In Stores Now
Wrekonize "The War Within" Now Available!
Rittz "The Life And Times Of Jonny Valiant" Purchase Now!
CES Cru "Constant Energy Struggles" Purchase Now!
Kutt Calhoun "Black Gold" Album Now Available!
Brotha Lynch Hung "Mannibalector" Album In Stores Now!
Tech N9ne's Hostile Takeover: The Story Behind The Tour
Prozak "Nocturnal" EP Now Available!
Krizz Kaliko "Neh' Mind" EP Now Available!
Tech N9ne – 'E.B.A.H.'/'Boiling Point' Combo EP Now In Stores!
Tech N9ne "Boiling Point" EP Now Available!
Stevie Stone "Momentum" EP Now Available!
Tech N9ne "E.B.A.H." EP Now Available!
Kutt Calhoun "Kelvin" EP Now Available!
Ces Cru "13" EP Now Available!
¡MAYDAY! "Thrift Store Halos" EP Now Available!
© 2013 Created by Strange Admin.


text:
Roll Over Image to Zoom
Letters to Santa Chairbacker
No longer available
- Overview
Our colorful Christmas Chair Backers add to a festive kids' table and offer a place to store small gifts and treats.
- 7.5" wide x 9.5" high
- Sewn of cotton canvas with appliqués and decorative stitching.
- Fabric straps secure the backer to the chair.
- Personalization is available for an additional $7.00.
- Imported.
- Shipping Info
Please allow 5-7 business days for delivery. Delivery estimate includes monogrammed and gift-wrapped items.