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MF Global was a Broker-Dealer/ FCM that speculated in highly leveraged sovereign debt with their proprietary funds. At some point they used their customer segregated accounts to support their proprietary positions. The result was a bankruptcy filing on Oct. 31 that has caused massive hardship to their customers and wreaked havoc on the futures industry.
I've spent a great deal of time talking to and listening to people about what went wrong at MF Global and even more time talking to and listening to people about what is wrong with the futures industry. There is a lot of anger and finger-pointing. I recognize that much of the criticism is emanating from those who have lost money. While I sympathize with all those who haven't yet recovered their funds, I feel it is important to set the record straight and point out some of the realities.
Who to blame
The initial object of criticism was the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). As the primary regulator of the futures industry and of MF Global, the CFTC was criticized as having somehow failed in its responsibilities. This was probably unfair. The Commodity Futures Modernization Act shifted the role played by the CFTC from a frontline regulator to an oversight regulator. Further, the CFTC is not really structured to "regulate in real time." Because of this, the CFTC usually acts after the fact. While the CFTC certainly has the ability to (and does) seek restraining orders in cases of on-going frauds, the CFTC generally relies on the severity of its penalties for deterrent effect, rather than on the immediacy of its enforcement actions.
More pointed criticism has been leveled at the CFTC regarding its role — or lack thereof — in the bankruptcy process. The CFTC's inability to direct the liquidation of MF Global, Inc. and its acquiescence in allowing the proceedings to be handled by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) as administered through the Securities Investor Protection Act (SIPA) has been questioned by many in the industry. As has been pointed out by Commissioner Jill Sommers, "Under SIPA, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has the authority to refer an entity registered as a broker-dealer (whether or not such entity is also registered as an FCM)." The CFTC has no authority to initiate a bankruptcy proceeding on behalf of an FCM and felt that it was essential that MF Global be placed in bankruptcy as soon as possible. The CFTC and the entire commodity industry have been frustrated because of this failure in both the commodities laws and the bankruptcy code.
The second object of criticism has been the CME. There is no evidence as of yet that CME Group failed in their duties as a designated self-regulatory organization (DSRO). We will have to await the inevitable inquiry to see if CME Group could or should have done anything differently. There is a feeling that CME Group, as the DSRO, should be in the position of an insurance company to all those who have lost their funds as a result of the MF Global bankruptcy. I think this reflects a misunderstanding of what a DSRO is and does.
SROs and DSROs
All exchanges are Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs). The exchanges formulate and adopt rules consistent with the Commodity Exchange Act and CFTC regulations. They regulate the conduct of their members, enforce their rules and punish violators. As FCMs are frequently members of several exchanges, a single exchange (usually the exchange where the FCM conducts most of its business) is named as the DSRO. Those FCMs that are not members of exchanges (non-clearing FCMs) and introducing brokers have the National Futures Association as their DSRO.
In addition to enforcing exchange rules, DSROs audit FCMs for financial integrity and for matters involving customer protection. The DSROs have an organization known as the Joint Audit Committee, which sets uniform standards for the audit and supervision of FCMs and IBs.
Much like certified public accountants in the corporate world, DSROs sample, investigate and report. On an annual basis the DSROs audit segregated funds. They verify balances, examine segregation acknowledgement letters, review account captions and analyze the types of investments.
MF Global's customer segregated account was apparently in compliance at their annual audit. CME was notified of a credit downgrade of MF Global on Oct. 24 and that brought on an interim review. CME stated that it believed MF Global's segregated funds were intact on Oct. 26. MF Global provided a segregation statement showing excess segregated funds at Oct. 27. Exactly when the customer segregated funds were raided still is unknown.
The purpose of the DSRO is to act as the delegate of the CFTC. It investigates and reports, it doesn't guarantee. A certified financial audit by outside auditors is still a requirement. It is not likely that an auditor will uncover a fraud except in the course of a long and thorough investigation. In the short term, a determined attempt to elude detection would likely succeed. In no event can the DSRO be considered an insurance company.
Some believe that there is an inherent conflict of interest in having an exchange acting as the DSRO for its member FCMs. As DSRO, CME has every incentive to be acutely concerned about the financial condition of the FCMs that it audits. CME is intensely interested in protecting all the member FCMs that make up the exchange as well as protecting themselves from the financial failure of any single FCM. The continued existence of the exchange depends on it.
What to blame
Some criticism has been directed toward the MF Global corporate structure. MF Global was both a broker-dealer and an FCM in a single corporate entity. It is clear that in the bankruptcy process this has been a point of confusion. MF Global was 90% an FCM and yet we have the bankruptcy process being directed by SIPA, a securities act. Not only is there a lack of experience and understanding of the futures industry, but there is also a delay in expediting the bankruptcy proceeding. The separation of the FCM and the broker-dealer into separate entities would not have prevented the transfer of funds between the entities, but it may have made the bankruptcy filing into a cleaner, quicker proceeding.
There is a separate Trustee for the MF Global Holdings, Ltd. bankruptcy, the parent of MF Global, the FCM. That Trustee has taken the position that the CFTC regulations on bankruptcy, Part 190, are not applicable to the SIPA bankruptcy proceedings. The CFTC has filed a brief in opposition to the Trustee and is arguing for the commodity customer protections that are included in Part 190.The court has yet to rule.
Proprietary trading
There has been a great deal of concern about the fact that MF Global was involved in proprietary trading. It is believed that the losses incurred on the proprietary side resulted in the improper use of customer segregated funds. That is the issue that is currently being investigated, and it is thought that forbidding FCMs from engaging in proprietary trading might be a solution. Currently this is being discussed under the so-called Volcker rule, which is being applied to banking entities (and their affiliates). The Volcker rule would prohibit short-term proprietary trading except to U.S. Government and government agency obligations, as well as state and municipal obligations. Market making, underwriting and hedging would still be permitted under the Volcker rule.
It has been suggested that the creation of an insurance fund similar to SIPC would help restore faith in the futures industry. There are many problems with this approach. I could envision a situation where FCMs compete for customers by offering ever higher returns on an insured account balance. FCM's might feel compelled to take greater risks with segregated funds to generate the competitive returns. Presumably the development of an insurance fund would be funded by a transaction assessment. Currently the NFA assesses two cents per side and generates revenue of approximately $40 million a year. At that rate, a similar insurance assessment, would take 30 years to build up a fund large enough to cover the losses anticipated from MF Global. In addition futures accounts often are of very large size and while $250,000 (the SIPC limit) may be adequate for most retail securities customers, it would not be sufficient with regard to most institutional futures customers.
Segregation-fellow customer risk
All customer segregated funds are commingled with other customer segregated funds at the firm level. In theory, the funds of one customer are at risk to the losses of another customer. Recently the CFTC ruled on protection for the collateral for "cleared swaps." The rules that have been proposed would insulate customer collateral from the losses of other customers. While this may become the rule for cleared swaps, it is not the rule for futures customer funds. There is some support, however, for extending this type of protection to futures customers' segregated funds.
Segregation-types of investment
A great deal of concern has been expressed over the fact that MF Global invested proprietary funds in foreign sovereign debt. Pursuant to CFTC Reg. 1.25, even sovereign debt was an acceptable investment for customer segregated funds. Recently the CFTC moved to revise the eligible investments for segregated funds. The new rules allow investments only in U.S. Government or municipal paper, CDs, money market funds and certain corporate paper that is government guaranteed. Foreign sovereign debt is no longer acceptable for customer segregated funds.
Generally, money market funds are considered among the safest of investments. It should be noted, however, that in 2008 the Reserve Fund, a money market fund, "broke the buck" meaning that the net asset value declined to less than $1. At that point, the Reserve Fund was no longer considered good collateral. That caused a daisy chain effect of failures throughout the financial system. There was also the failure of the Sentinel Fund, which operated various funds under the auspices of CME's IEF program. The funds in CME's IEF program are considered safe investments and eligible for exchange collateral. The Sentinel investors and creditors are still in bankruptcy litigation and considerable losses were suffered by the FCM's who were involved. It is thought that some of the segregation and bankruptcy case law resulting from the Sentinel case may be applicable to the MF Global bankruptcy.
17 CFR 1.20 - Customer funds to be segregated and separately accounted for…
c) Each futures commission merchant shall treat and deal with the customer funds of a commodity customer or of an option customer as belonging to such commodity or option customer. All customer funds shall be separately accounted for, and shall not be commingled with the money, securities or property of a futures commission merchant or of any other person, or be used to secure or guarantee the trades, contracts or commodity options, or to secure or extend the credit, of any person other than the one for whom the same are held.
Although the regulations specifically outlaw the commingling of customer property with that of the futures commission merchant, the reality is somewhat different. It is industry practice to comingle FCM property with customer segregated funds. The FCM's proprietary funds that are included in the customer segregated account are known as "excess segregated funds" and the process of adding them to the customer segregated account is known as "topping off." In theory, customer segregated funds should never be permitted to be in deficit and the proprietary excess segregated funds added by the FCM are intended to prevent a deficit from ever occurring
When a transferee, be it a bank or a broker, receives funds from a customer segregated account, he has no way of telling whether or not these funds represent excess segregated funds belonging to the FCM, or customer segregated funds belonging to the customers. This issue arose in the MF Global situation, where JP Morgan apparently received a wire transfer from an MF Global customer segregated account and asked for confirmation that the funds involved were not customer segregated funds. JP Morgan was apparently concerned that customer segregated funds were being applied to a proprietary MF Global debt.
Possible solution
The Commodity Customer Coalition (CCC), founded by James Koutoulas and John Roe, intervened in the MF Global bankruptcy on behalf of the 8,000 customers who have joined the CCC. A legal theory proposed by the CCC is that customer segregated funds retain their special character in the hands of any transferee such as JP Morgan.
"The CCC is asking the court to order what the law requires: That the segregation protection of commodity customer funds travels with those funds as the FCM moves them throughout its organization. The Trustee has an obligation to trace customer funds wherever they travelled and claw them back to the estate of MF Global, or sue the entity who accepted them to recover them, so he may distribute those funds to customers."
If this is not the current state of the law, it should be, and the Commodity Exchange Act and the Bankruptcy laws should be amended to make this an absolute protection for customer segregated funds. Anyone accepting customer segregated funds should be on notice that there is an obligation attached to these funds. I would take the matter one step further and require that any transfer of proprietary "excess segregated funds" must be made to a proprietary account first before any subsequent transfer. Proprietary funds should only be transferred to a third party proprietary account from a proprietary account. That way, if customer funds were ever wrongfully depleted, it would be easy to trace them. Further, any transferee of customer segregated funds would be on notice of the special character accorded segregated funds and act appropriately.
The Enron bankruptcy was not the result of a failed energy industry; it was the result of a criminal conspiracy. The Madoff bankruptcy was not the result of a failed hedge fund industry; it was the result of a criminal conspiracy. The MF Global bankruptcy is not the result of a failed futures industry; it is the result of criminal activity on the part of senior staff at MF Global. It is misguided to place the blame on anyone but the officers of MF Global. Someone at some point in time decided to raid the customer segregated account. Everything that has happened since is a result of that decision.
It is inevitable that there will be more legislation as a result of MF Global. My hope is that the treatment of customer segregated funds mentioned above, will be included among the laws that are adopted. It also is my hope that the laws that are proposed will not be so severe as to drive the non-bank FCMs from the futures industry. Over the past four years we have witnessed the failure of Bear Stearns, Lehman Brothers and now MF Global. The problems always seem to lie with the "big" firms. Now that there is an industry in crisis, the remaining big firms are nowhere to be found. You won't find Goldman Sachs or JP Morgan among those firms that assisted the MF Global customers. No, it was the smaller FCMs such as RJ O'Brien, Dorman, Penson and Rosenthal Collins Group that stepped up to the plate and accepted a bulk transfer from the Bankruptcy Trustee. I hope that our regulators think long and hard about who stood up for our industry when it is time to adopt additional regulations.
Marc Nagel is Chief Operating Officer of Dorman Trading, LLC. He can be reached at: email@example.com.


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Final Sale
Utility Shirtdress
Item# 3278526
Sorry, this item is no longer available!
- Popover style in a silky border print
- Easy straight shape with shirt collar, button placket
- Wear it with or without included faux-leather belt
- 3/4 sleeves with button-tab cuff
- Measures approximately 37" from shoulder to bottom hem
- 100% Polyester
- Remove belt. Machine wash.
- Imported
Classic and Sexy
The unique print on this sexy shirtdress has caught many an eye! Accessorized with The Swag Chain Belt in grey, silver cuffs and hoops, this dress is a smart, must-have in this season's hottest colors. Nude or grey peep-toes help extend the leg and accentuate the flirty length.
March 21, 2013
Just too short
I'm 5'9" and looking for a couple of spring/summer dresses. Wanted to love this one but it's just a little too short for work, so I returned it. Otherwise it's pretty good, although the fit through the shoulders was a little tight.
March 2, 2013
Lots of compliments!
Love this dress! I first wore it to church and received many compliments on it! The fit and quality are great. It's very comfortable and flattering!
February 26, 2013
This is another fabulous shirt dress from the TL. TL makes the best ones! The pattern is very modern, but quite busy. I am going a little bit outside of my comfort zone with the pattern, but I love it!
February 9, 2013
Beautiful dress
The fabric is slightly heavier than the other spring dresses from Limited, which makes it perfect. This was one of the 3 dresses I have tried on and the only one which was not static. Belt makes it perfect, even that I will use wider one that the one provided. Since I am not really tall, I will have to get rid of the belt loops as well, since my waist is in a little different place. I am 5'6" and around 100 -105 lb and got XS.
February 7, 2013
Love So Much
What a great piece! Dress up, dress down, wear to work. Looks great as a dress or a tunic over leggings or skinnies. Saturated colors on silky material. Fit is great and it's flattering with or without the belt. I am a size 4 and got the small, fits perfectly. I'd say it's true to size. A keeper!
February 7, 2013
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subset: commoncrawl


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I'd been thinking of making one of these, so here it is. I know there have been some in the past, but maybe this one will be a bit more permanent.
In any case, let the discussion begin. As an Islanders fan, this season has been, as usual, painful, but the last six games have been really good.


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AFAB Upholstery 5449 N. 51st.Ave. Glendale, Az. 85301 602-299-4309 www.afabaz.com This Boat left Saturday!!!!!! Complete Floor, Complete Carpet, Complete Seats, New Wood w/ Fiberglass...and Colorsand and Buff!!!! Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Below Boat left on Friday......New Carpet, New Complete Interior and Colorsand and... back to original listing
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Pilot Study of Sorafenib and Bi-weekly Capecitabine in Patients with Advanced Breast and Gastrointestinal Tumors
Gastrointestinal Tumors | Metastatic Breast Cancer
What is the purpose of this trial?
The purpose of this study is to find the maximum and optimally tolerated dose of the combination of two drugs. The two drugs are Sorafenib and Capecitabine. The drug Sorafenib is an approved drug which is used to treat certain cancers. The drug Capecitabine is approved to treat patients with advanced breast cancer as well as early stage colon cancer. However, the combination of Sorafenib and Capecitabine is not FDA approved.Participation Guidelines
- Age:
- 18 Years and older
- Gender:
- Both
Click here for detailed information about who can participate in this trial.
- Sponsor:
- Bayer Pharmaceuticals
Yale Cancer Center - Dates:
- July 2012
- Last Updated:
- Study HIC#:
- 1112009424


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Putting the wakeup alarmclock to Wikipedia's head since... Oh god, it's been that long?
Welcome, Guest! ( Log In | Register )
QUOTE::Excuse me. As soon as people construed that I explicitly and repeatedly made the appropriate clarification. The rumor persisted anyway despite my efforts to stop it. [[User:Durova|Durova]]''[[User talk:Durova|Charge!]]'' 23:12, 13 December 2007 (UTC::::Construe? They construed nothing - they read what you clearly told them! [[User:Giano II|Giano]] ([[User talk:Giano II|talk]]) 23:21, 13 December 2007 (UTC)
QUOTERefactoringIf "refactor" means "strike it out", I'll ask: why? I didn't gloat, kick, or use insulting names, and treated him far better than he treated me.Kww (talk) 22:50, 13 December 2007 (UTC) I hope you never need to walk a mile in my moccasins, or his. He didn't treat me well either. Several people have asked you to reconsider that. I hoped the request would carry weight, coming from me, under the circumstances. Please think about it. DurovaCharge! 22:54, 13 December 2007 (UTC) I suspect the deleted looks worse than anything I actually said.Kww (talk) 01:01, 14 December 2007 (UTC)


text: 000 FXUS63 KTOP 072050 AFDTOP AREA FORECAST DISCUSSION NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE TOPEKA KS 250 PM CST Sat Dec 7 2013 .SHORT TERM...(This Evening through Sunday) Issued at 246 PM CST SAT DEC 7 2013 Light snow accumulations continue to be the focus for the overnight into Sunday time frame. Isentropic lift underway out west and increases over the forecast area into the late night hours before dropping off after sunrise. Still don`t see overlapping instability/lift for heavier snow bands, but rather an event several hours long of light snow that bring some accumulation to the area. Better lift continues to move across the counties north of I70, while areas south and east still get a chance for some light snow accumulations but less. Still looking at near 3 inches around the NE border with an inch or less I35 and southeast with 1-2 in between. West of Manhattan may see half an inch before midnight with rest of the area seeing accumulations mainly in the midnight to 6am window with some diminishing light amounts before noon. Battle with the dry air then becomes the focus, and whether or not there will be enough ice for remaining light precip in the afternoon to stay snow or changeover to light freezing drizzle. NAM is coldest of them all and keeps top of the mixed layer and lift generally in the -10 to -12 range, while GFS is coming in warmer and less unstable down in the lowest levels. Think the colder solution is more appropriate given dynamic cooling with the precipitation, but with the differences between the temperature guidance and the increasing depth of the dry air in the snow growth layer, will add a chance for light freezing drizzle east and south of Topeka for the afternoon hours. With most accumulations falling before the afternoon, not expecting much either way in terms of snow or drizzle accumulation in the afternoon for this area. Lows fall to the teens tonight but increasing clouds and a shift around late day to southerly winds at the surface should bring highs back into the 20s on Sunday. .LONG TERM...(Sunday Night through Saturday) Issued at 246 PM CST SAT DEC 7 2013 Late Sunday the mid level shortwave responsible for the snow lifts NE of the area into the upper Midwest. That system will drive a reinforcing shot of cold air behind a weak front that moves through the region Sunday evening. By 00Z Monday the front should be located across the forecast area increasing the low level lift as it progresses southeastward. Forecast soundings show dry mid levels before the front arrives although the low levels maintain saturation especially in the eastern portion of the forecast area. Temperatures within this layer of lift and saturation range from -5 to -12, which is cold enough for snow, but could not rule out the formation of freezing drizzle as well. This front and associated lift quickly exits the area by 03Z Monday with very little measurable precipitation if any at all. The reinforcing shot of cold air brings low temperatures back into the low 10s in east central KS to near zero in north central KS for Monday morning. Wind chill values will again approach -15 in northern KS. During the day Monday skies will be partly cloudy with highs in the mid to upper 10s. On Monday night the main trough swings out of the SW CONUS bringing a slight chance of snow just south of the area as an area of frontogenesis and upper level divergence coincide over southern KS. Tuesday morning low temperatures range from the mid 0s across northern KS to the low 10s in east central KS. A slight warming trend will then begin as the mid/upper level pattern becomes less amplified across the western US and eastern pacific. The flow will remain out of the NW so expect temperatures still below normal, but moderating from this recent arctic outbreak. There will also be a series of cold fronts that push through the area although the lack of moisture keeps things dry. With the exception of Wednesday highs will generally be in the 30s even close to 40 by Friday...with overnight lows in the 10s and 20s. && .AVIATION...(For the 18Z TAFs through 18Z Sunday Afternoon) Issued at 1123 AM CST SAT DEC 7 2013 VFR conditions should hold on through 06/07z before cloud deck lowers to MFVR and light snow begins. Lowered deck further at 08/09z to low MVFR and will likely need to be IFR for at least a few hours in the morning but will refine as period draws closer. Kept low MVFR conditions through 18z although will likely be tapering off toward the end of the period. && .TOP WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... NONE. && $$ SHORT TERM...67 LONG TERM...Sanders AVIATION...67


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Reader Holidays - Elvis Presley's Memphis, New Orleans and Nashville from Dorset Echo
When news happens get involved. Send your pictures, views and video to us by text and email
Holidays - To Book By Phone Call 0844 477 4491
Reader Holidays - Elvis Presley's Memphis, New Orleans and Nashville from Dorset Echo
Departing March 2014 - May 2015
From £999.00
*Price shown: 18 Nov 2014 - AXJ
Deep South music cities
Discover the world of WC Handy, Robert Johnson, 'Fats' Domino, Chuck Berry, Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton and, of course, Elvis Presley. We'll take an unforgettable journey through America's musical heartland, heading from the cradle of the blues and Dixieland Jazz to the undisputed capital of Country Music - Nashville!
What The Price Includes
- Return scheduled flights from selected regional airports
- Seven nights' room-only accommodation in a series of good standard hotels
- Free time in New Orleans, Memphis and Nashville
- Visits to Tupelo and Chattanooga
- A touring itinerary as described
- The services of a Newmarket Tour Manager
- Government taxes and service charges
Single rooms are available for a supplement
Day One
Fly to Atlanta to board the coach for the transfer to your overnight hotel in Montgomery.
Day Two
Head to New Orleans today for a two-night stay. Savour the beauty and romance of the South on board the Steamboat 'Natchez' on an optional excursion. Enjoy views of the New Orleans skyline, and a locally flavoured buffet dinner, as this elegant and authentic paddle steamer cruises the Mississippi and the renowned 'Dukes of Dixieland' play.
Day Three
This morning's optional guided city tour introduces the 'Big Easy'. Don't miss the time-warped, iron-balconied buildings of the French Quarter, centred on Jackson Square. Afterwards, join our optional Louisiana swampland excursion for a glimpse of the city's surrounding countryside and a taste of Creole life.
Day Four
Leaving New Orleans today you'll start your Elvis journey with a visit to Tupelo, where you might wish to visit the tiny house that was the star's birthplace (entrance not included). Afterwards, a short journey brings you to Elvis's beloved hometown, the bustling cotton capital of Memphis. This evening, soak up the atmosphere of colourful Beale Street.
Day Five
Don't miss today's optional full-day Memphis Sounds excursion, which will include a visit to the famous Sun Studio, the recording birthplace of legends from Elvis to the mighty BB King, and to perhaps the most famous southern 'mansion' of all, Elvis's iconic Graceland.
Day Six
Enjoy a scenic drive through the wooded Tennessee hills and farmland to Nashville, the world capital of country music.
Day Seven
An optional excursion introduces you to the Country Music Hall of Fame and the legendary Studio B, the starting point for more popular hits than any other recording studio in the USA. We'll then journey south to cheery Chattanooga, of Choo-Choo fame, for a one-night stay.
Day Eight
Spend the morning relaxing, then head to Atlanta Airport in the afternoon to board your flight home.
Day Nine
Arrive back home, after an overnight flight.
Further Information
New Orleans Carnival
February 25th 2014 departures offer the chance to see the city pre-Mardi Gras. Enjoy the party atmosphere as decorated floats run through the streets, as they're readied for the big Shrove Tuesday annual celebration.
New Orleans By Night With Jazz excursion
Please note that you must be 21 years of age or older to take this tour. Comfortable footwear is also recommended.
Smoking is not permitted on any coach forming part of your holiday; regular stops will be made though for your comfort en route. The majority of hotels in North America are non-smoking throughout including in all bedrooms. In general smoking outside is acceptable, but do look out for signs prohibiting this close to public entrances or bus stops.
The American arrivals process
Most British Citizens travelling to the USA do not need a visa but must register online with US Immigration at least 72 hours before departure. A charge of $14US applies. We will send you the details, along with your tickets, about two weeks prior to travel. Any persons who have a criminal record or have ever been arrested, even if not charged, cannot use this process and must apply for a visa.
Gratuities are a way of life in North America, and it is generally accepted that they form part of a person's earnings. Customary gratuity to a coach driver or tour manager is about $5 per person per day; in a taxi or a restaurant leave 12-15 per cent of the bill and, in the bar, leave a dollar or so per drink.
The following hotels are offered with this holiday (subject to availability and supplementary pricing)
Nashville and New Orleans Touring Hotels
The hotels used on our tours will meet the standard of a good, three-star European hotel. Rooms will have private bathrooms, telephones and TV. The vast majority will also have tea- and coffee-making facilities. There will always be a bar or restaurant on site or nearby.
Further Hotel Information »Introduction
The hotels used on our tours will meet the standard of a good, three-star European hotel. Rooms will have private bathrooms, telephones and TV. The vast majority will also have tea- and coffee-making facilities. There will always be a bar or restaurant on site or nearby.
Hide Hotel Information »Holidays - To Book By Phone Call 0844 477 4491
All the holidays featured are operated by Newmarket Air Holidays Ltd, ABTA No.V7812, ATOL No. 2325, and Newmarket Promotions Ltd, ABTA No. V787X.Local Information
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PEMBROKE - The tribal rolls of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina closed Friday and will re-open Dec. 13.
Tribal law requires that the rolls close 30 days prior to any election, and re-open 30 calendar days upon certification of any special or regular election, according to a statement from the tribe.
The tribe is holding an election Nov. 13 that will decide the next chairman and seven seats on the Tribal Council.
- Ali Rockett
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Joseph Romanos
Panesar's courage should be recognised
I want to talk about England cricketer Monty Panesar.
Rid cricket of sledging poison
Ian Chappell didn't invent the term "sledging" in cricket, but he certainly embraced it as a player.
Haka 'has had its day'
JOSEPH ROMANOS - © Fairfax NZ News
OPINION: Ireland prop Cian Healy bought himself a whole lot of publicity when he slammed the All Blacks' haka.
Little Master's pending finish overhyped
OPINION: The cricket world is in Sachin Tendulkar overload. India's Little Master, as cricket journalists repeatedly call him, is to play his final test, against the West Indies in Mumbai, from November 14 to 18.
One-sided romps don't count as 'top sport'
New Zealand's top sports teams have been sadly lacking in real competition lately.
Still hope for a final for Wellington one day
OPINION: There's a certain inevitability about being a Wellington rugby supporter.
NZ athletes can be cheats too, really
I'm surprised New Zealanders aren't more up in arms at the failed drugs test of equestrian Jock Paget's horse, Clifton Promise. Then again, maybe I'm not.
Rabbit escapes the hutch
One thing New Zealand has always done well in test cricket is produce genuine No 11 batsmen.
Sponsored links
Unfortunate sign of the times
OPINION: It's a disappointing sign of the way the New Zealand sports media is heading that Brendan Telfer has to leave his daily Radio Sport slot at the end of the year.
Why the America's Cup hype?
OPINION: I've been trying to work out why New Zealanders have been so swept up in the America's Cup over the past month. To be honest, it's not easy.
Faux pas turned test into farce
OPINION: Don't you just hate it when sports officials get in the way of the contest.
Nadal's feats not confined to clay
OPINION: For a player who has won 12 grand slam titles, an Olympic gold medal and been in four winning Davis Cup teams, Rafael Nadal is strangely underrated.
IOC wrestles with pressures
OPINION: The International Olympic Committee is about to make another blunder.
Time for Ko to take the money
OPINION: Lydia Ko, the 16-year-old golf wonder from Auckland, is facing an unusually ticklish problem.
Reputations spoiled by cheats
OPINION: This is the story of how other athletes' drug cheating has damaged the reputations of superstars Usain Bolt and Valerie Adams.
Edgar should be in charge
OPINION: It's good news that Bruce Edgar is to return to the New Zealand cricket fold as national selection manager. Unfortunately, it's a case of too little, too late.
Boyle's finest moments a long time in the making
OPINION: Lauren Boyle swam for New Zealand internationally for seven years before she became an overnight sensation.
Park's class deserves to receive recognition
OPINION: Korean golfer Inbee Park is on the brink of a remarkable sports achievement, though few realise it.
The classy Crusaders keep finding winning formula
It was impossible not to admire the clinical way Todd Blackadder's Crusaders destroyed the Reds in their Super rugby showdown over the weekend.
Board needs cricketers, not business people
Sanity is returning to the ranks of New Zealand cricket at last.
Tom Walsh breaks NZ shot put record again
Lifejackets not negotiable - ECan
First-home buyers hold off, says agent
Sharp campers sought to catch site-fee dodgers
Graduates valued as QV staff show their age
More SC patients on green plan for health
Teachers' trust in Novopay lost


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Disclaimer: Trading foreign exchange ("Forex"), Commodity futures, options, CFDs and SpreadBetting on margin carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors. Before deciding to trade foreign exchange ("Forex"), Commodity futures, options, CFDs or SpreadBetting you should carefully consider your monetary objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite. The possibility exists that you could sustain a loss of some or all of your deposited funds and therefore you should not speculate with capital that you cannot afford to lose. You should be aware of all the risks associated with foreign exchange, Commodity futures, options, CFDs and SpreadBetting trading, and seek advice from an independent advisor if you have any doubts. Past returns are not indicative of future results. Please refer to our Risk Warning for more detailed information. |


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Cookies are small text files stored on your computer. They allow us to distinguish you from other users when you visit this site and to provide helpful features such as your recent searches. Cookies themselves do not contain any personal information, and Infotel does not use cookies to collect personal information. More information
Book online or call +44 (0)1775 843417 at standard rates.
Privately owned modern 3 star hotel offering first class accommodation and conference facilities. Over 20 years experience in the planning and organisation of wedding receptions, bridal suite available with spa bath or 4 poster bed. Civil Marriage Licence.The BasicsEach of the 97 bedrooms are comfortably appointed with ensuite bathroom, hairdryer, colour satellite television, tea/coffee making facilities, direct dial telephone and high speed broadband internet access (subject to a small daily charge). We also offer FREE wireless internet in reception for all hotel guests.
TravellingMotorway Access
From the M1 take the M25 East
Go through the Dartford Tunnel and take junction 2 - A2/M2 to Canterbury Follow A2 Southbound directions
From the M4/M40 take the M25 to Gatwick
Take junction 2 - A2/M2 to Canterbury
Follow A2 Southbound directions
From M20 Northbound
Take junction 6 - A229 and head for Chatham
Keep following the A229 until you pass a 'Toys R Us' and Rochester airport on your left
Move into the right hand lane and follow the A230 to Chatham
Follow the road to the very end and bear right following the signs to the A231 - Gillingham.
Keep following the road and you will pass the Chatham Historic Dockyard on your left
You will then come to a roundabout, take the 2nd exit and at the 2nd set of traffic lights after this roundabout turn left
Immediately turn right into The King Charles Hotel car park.
Follow the building round until you come to the King Charles Hotel Reception
From A2 Southbound
Follow the A2 Southbound. After passing The Inn on the Lake Hotel on your left, travel for approximately 1 mile and take the exit, signposted, Gillingham A289/Grain
Keep to the left hand lane and bear to the left following the A289 signs
Continue on A289 for approximately 3 miles until you reach a roundabout
At roundabout take the 2nd exit signposted, Chatham Maritime/Medway City Estate
Move to the left hand lane and bear to the left at the roundabout, taking the 1st exit to Chatham Maritime/Upnor/Gillingham A289
Proceed to the roundabout and take the 1st exit to Chatham/Gillingham
After driving through the tunnel, take the 1st exit on the right to Brompton B2003
Turn right at the traffic lights, crossing over the dual carriageway
Take the 1st road on the left signposted, Town Centre/Brompton and at the next lights turn right into Medway Road
Follow the road to the end at just before the traffic lights turn left into The King Charles Hotel car park
From A2 Northbound
Take junction 4 - Gillingham A278/Medway Tunnel
At the roundabout take the 2nd exit to Gillingham/Rainham/Medway Tunnel
Continue for ½ mile to next roundabout and take 2nd exit to Gillingham Town Centre/Rainham
After approximately 1 mile, take the 1st exit at the roundabout signposted Business Park/Gillingham
Continue for approximately ½ mile and move into right hand lane
At roundabout take 3rd exit to A289/Medway Tunnel/Chatham Docks & Maritime
At next roundabout take 2nd exit to A289 Medway Tunnel/Chatham Docks. After approximately ½ mile you come to another roundabout and take the 2nd exit to Medway Tunnel/Chatham Docks
Travel for about ¾ mile until next roundabout and take 2nd exit to Medway Tunnel/Chatham Docks & Maritime
After approximately ½ mile take the left hand turning to Town Centre/Brompton B2003 and bear to the left
At the lights turn right into Medway Road and follow this the end of the road. Just before the traffic lights turn left into The King Charles Hotel car park
EntertainmentWe have various tribute bands throughout the year. Please contact us for a full whats on.Love MarriageThe King Charles Hotel has over 20 years experience in the planning, organisation and running of wedding receptions. Both staff and management will be delighted to be part of your day, giving you help and advice on every aspect.
With two rooms licensed for the solemnisation of weddings, we can offer you a small informal service in our Trafalgar Room or a larger more grand affair in our Cavalier Suite. The maximum number of guests depends on your chosen room - we can hold up to 200 guests in our Cavalier Suite and 50 guests in our Trafalgar Room.
The ceremony is conducted and organised by a registrar from Medway Register Office but we make the initial booking or enquiry on your behalf.
Civil ceremonies can be very simple and pleasant but there are many 'extra' things you can add to make it a truly memorable and personal day. Many people find having the wedding ceremony, reception and accommodation in the same building a very relaxing and enjoyable experience - also cutting down on travel costs/time and minimising weather worries.
Several of our rooms are available for either a sit down and evening wedding reception or a more simple evening finger buffet. For further details regarding our banqueting or function rooms, please complete the enquiry form.
These are general hotel policies for King Charles Hotel. As they may vary per room type; please also check the room description.


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Facebook looks back at 2013
Facebook is inviting users to look back at their year, but also reflecting on what happened throughout the social network in 2013. Facebook released a list of the top trends on the site, such as the Royal Baby, Disneyland and Miley Cyrus.
Mediabistro Course
A Thank You From MediabistroEDU
To say thank you for a great year, we're offering 15% OFF any boot camp, in-person course, or online course when you use code MBTHANKU. Get 15% off comprehensive courses including our popular Social Media 101 boot camp, starting January 14. Hurry – offer expires 12/24! Browse our upcoming courses.
Where do Facebook developers come from?
Facebook released a heat map of developers Tuesday at the Le Web conference, showing which countries have high concentrations of Facebook developers and which countries are emerging.
Among the countries with greater than 10,000 developers: the U.S., Canada, Brazil and France. Facebook released the above heat map, showing the concentration of Facebook developers around the globe.
Facebook SPMD SHIFT announces $6M round of funding
Facebook Strategic Preferred Marketing Developer SHIFT announced Tuesday morning that the company has raised $6 million in Series B funding, led by DN Capital.
The new funding will help the international expansion of SHIFT's Open Marketing Cloud, which provides marketers access to a host of marketing apps, allowing them to reach customers through Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. This round brings total financing for SHIFT to $14 million.
Does Facebook suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Through Seasonal Affective Disorder, many people can become saddened or depressed over the winter months. Does this affect your Facebook activity too? That's what Expion, a Facebook Preferred Marketing Developer, wondered.
Expion discovered that, among 50 top retail brands on Facebook, engagement does tend to dip as the days get colder.
Top 25 Facebook apps: December 2013 — King rules
King now makes three of the top 5 Facebook apps, according to statistics from AppData.
Farm Heroes Saga passed up TripAdvisor in our monthly leaderboard, meaning the three most popular Facebook apps, in terms of monthly active users (MAU), are all made by King.
Look below for a list of the top 25 Facebook apps, ranked by MAU estimates, courtesy of AppData:
Top 25 Facebook pages: December 2013 — Vin Diesel on the rise
One of the fastest-growing Facebook pages belongs to The Fast & The Furious star Vin Diesel. The page has gained 2.1 million fans in the past week — the most on our monthly leaderboard outside of Facebook for Every Phone.
Look below to discover the 25 Facebook pages with the most likes, courtesy of PageData.
Facebook for Business expands internationally
Facebook for Business, a hub for companies large and small on the social network, is going beyond North America. The site announced recently that the Facebook for Business portal is launching in 11 more languages: Brazilian Portuguese, European Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin American Spanish, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese and UK English.
Facebook: Pages may see organic reach decline
Facebook recently tweaked its News Feed algorithm to allow for more timely and relevant news. However, as the News Feed is a finite space, some other posts may see a decrease in reach.
The site posted on its Facebook for Business blog that pages will likely soon see a decrease in organic reach as a result of recent changes to the News Feed algorithm.
More users logging in with Facebook in outside apps
Facebook continues to be the login of choice for many mobile app users, according to a blog post from the company.
It seems that people who log in with Facebook are more engaged — and spend more money — than those who use alternative sign up methods. Many apps have seen strong results from their Facebook logins.
Five daring predictions for social marketing in 2014
#1. Brands will get braver on social, but will they be ready when it's too much?
Content is king in 2014 and to break through the noise and reach "uber engagement" brands will become more daring. But, what is the right level of "edge" before brands hit a "Miley Cyrus Wrecking Ball" moment?
Taco Bell had to do some fancy footwork this year to deal with the photo of an employee licking taco shells on the brand's Facebook page. And American Apparel must certainly regret their email campaign touting a Hurricane Sandy Sale. And, yet, in spite of these blunders, brands will continue to work harder to pioneer buzz-creating, edgy campaigns. In 2014, we can expect brands to go even more off-script and off-color in order to create content that is deemed "share-worthy" among the growing legion of youth on social media. However, one thing that will remain constant: the questions "how far is 'far enough?'" and "how far is 'too far?''
Social Media Jobs
of the Day
Fellowship, HuffPost Innovation & Entrepreneurship
The Huffington Post
New York, NY
Front End/UI Developer
Publishers Clearing House
New York, NY
Campaign Yield and Execution Manager
New York, NY
Digital Media Manager/Senior Strategist
Harmelin Media
Bala Cynwyd, PA
Analytics Manager
New York, NY


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ALF is an abbreviation for:
Activity-led funding
Find a translation for ALF in other languages:
Select another language:
What does ALF mean?
- Alf(ProperNoun)
- A diminutive of the male given names Alfred and Alfonso.
Use the citation below to add this abbreviation to your bibliography:
"ALF." Abbreviations.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2013. Web. 12 Dec. 2013. <http://www.abbreviations.com/term/1407234>.
ALF also stands for:
... and 35 more »
Nearby & related abbreviations:
Alternative search:
- Search Activity-led funding on Amazon.com
- Search Activity-led funding on Google


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You're watching...
'The Amateur'
Exclusive: New book sheds light on Obama presidency
May 16, 2012
Ed Klein
You're watching...
Exclusive: New book sheds light on Obama presidency
May 16, 2012
Ed Klein
Also in this playlist...
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Auto-advanceThis transcript is automatically generated
The as we continue to take an in depth look at the book that everybody's talking about it's called the amateur Barack Obama in the White House and the author of that book Ed Klein is still -- us.
All right so.
This is uninteresting so they have a meeting President Obama.
And Reverend Wright.
And they hide it from -- in the middle of the campaign.
Now he Reverend Wright has already been offered money through an intermediary a threat to stop talking yes okay.
Now the president makes that appeal himself.
You spoke to -- on the campaign or he's not president yet okay and the campaign or he's not president yet.
So they have a secret meeting -- as part of that President Obama is asking Reverend Wright you know hey can you please stop and this is -- Klein's interview of our right about.
Why can't -- -- say they're routed through the CE mails they.
-- shot really was she would.
I didn't send -- to me he says -- the members.
-- -- -- -- -- Her left center -- review of new.
-- -- -- -- City.
Which is Crawford.
Whoever he said.
Candidate and I appreciate you checkered comes from our -- -- in the bar.
Right so this is after the president.
He's meeting -- Reverend Wright after he gave a speech at Philly yes on race and and basically through the Reverend Wright under the bus and then he calls the Reverend Wright as he took the rev Wright told me.
That like to have a a private meeting we view it as secure place.
Bremer said we need to secure a place you've come to my home a thousand times what he does come here so he did go there and I have the the Secret Service logs showing that he did show up that day at the reverend Wright's.
Parts image.
It was picked up Obama only in a small way by the media -- you think after the big Philly speech.
Member this is the president that had said earlier that he is like family to me that's -- I can no longer disown.
Reverend Wright -- -- -- the black community.
So I could see what the reverence resentful.
The end of this meeting.
You ask Reverend -- about this.
And old Obama says to him something profound you can tell it and then I'll play.
He says the trouble with you reverend.
Is that you have to tell the truth.
And the Reverend Wright says to him.
That's not a bad trouble -- have them.
Obama -- wow so in other words -- basics he's saying you what he's saying I don't have to tell the truth that's right I listen to us.
-- and yes they -- -- -- a business.
He was confident he was -- hopeful.
But he's probably as good.
Day here yeah.
His -- I'm sorry you'll see him.
Certainly this ball.
So basically Reverend Wright is telling the world right now knowing that this is an important point.
In the election that's.
That Barack Obama is a liar that's from my reading that right you are he said to me numerous times during this interview.
There was a Barack Obama that I knew before he ran for president.
Not a bad guy wanted to stay home with -- kids talk to midnight and then something happened when he ran for president he completely change.
He said he became a politician that's right you know and then he went into great detail -- that.
All right there it -- and and in interest in connection that you brought up between Whitaker.
And Michelle Obama yes.
The house because she had a huge pay raise she worked for this hospital.
That became controversial because they had this whole policy put in place where people would be sort of encouraged to go to other hospitals to save money.
Save money for the University of Chicago hospital medical center they would -- -- Poor patients under -- -- Michelle Obama was head of the urban.
Health initiative they shunted these poor patients to local hospitals -- they had more room for rich patients who could pay more.
And that job that she had which we paid was paid I think 3151000.
Dollars a year which uses it and it is significant -- so -- like.
Triple what she was making before this was after he became -- -- -- -- -- and senator.
That same job is now held by guess who Eric Whitaker pretty interest yeah I mean this is -- the Chicago capitalism.
No I felt bad in the book Oprah Winfrey I think paid a little bit of a price but for the first time she came out supported a candidate somebody she I think she.
You know wholeheartedly believe didn't question and and really -- you describe in the book where she was shunned.
By the White House Valerie Jarrett Michelle Obama in particular.
Yes what happened is after Oprah after your after the election Oprah said to herself.
Well I can't say what you said to herself but she acted as though listen I'd played a major role.
In getting this guy elected and she and Barack Obama were on the phone all the time with her giving him advice about various things.
How to conduct a and an administration that will be popular chiefs and she knows a lot about how to be popular.
Well when Michelle Obama got wind of this and especially Valerie Jarrett her very best friend whose ensconced in the White House.
They -- they interpreted this as though Oprah was trying to be the First Lady.
-- Oprah was try to usurp.
The shelves position and they really.
Froze drought right and I noticed all left wing blogs -- always attack you are attacking now I don't see how they can attack you did you have a three hour audio tape.
But you've now given me.
On the Reverend Wright interview so it corroborates everything you said there what do you say about the other sourcing food for -- the information spent a lot of time researching the.
Why did you know -- I can contribute to 200 people now.
Most of them on the record by the way including the president's physician who was his personal -- 122 years.
Guys who work with him at the the University of Chicago Law School.
People who work with him at the Illinois State Senate.
As far as Oprah's concerned Oprah was so upset what she heard back from the White House which was.
This is an Oprah quote.
Michelle doesn't want me in the White House working with her on this anti obesity campaign.
Because she says she doesn't like a fat person waddling around the White House.
Oprah was was fit to be -- -- -- you can see Oprah is not campaigning for Obama this.
I'm around.
Pretty and obviously believe they connected absolutely all right Ed Klein a very very bland non controversial vote as usual thanks I think all of us.
I'm sure -- gonna be reaction to this.
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Granted most of what i listen to is electronic music, but i do enjoy a good share of alt/rock/metal/prog/indie etc.
Lately i liked the latest albums by Oceansize (prog, post rock), Kashmir (indie, alt rock… this band actually kind of sounds like if Younger Brother's new style was completely rock oriented and without electronics), Emarosa (hardcore, alt), Kamelot (prog metal, goth metal, power metal…. really gay stuff but so good :D) and The Antlers (indie, post punk).


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Communicators with Katie Harbath & Adam Conner (right-click to copy direct link)
Washington, DC Saturday, August 25, 2012
This week on The Communicators, Facebook Policy Managers Katie Harbath and Adam Conner discuss the role of Facebook in political campaigns for the 2012 election. Ms. Harbath and Mr. Conner work at Facebook as both staffers and strategists to help campaigns, as well as the Republican National Committee and Democratic National Committee with Facebook wall and messaging efforts.
Updated: Sunday, August 26, 2012 at 12:45pm (ET)
Video Playlist


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Tag Archives: fire emblem
Thu, Nov 07, 2013 | 08:18 GMT
Super Smash Bros Wii U: Marth added to character line-up, first image inside
Super Smash Bros. has added Fire Emblem hero Marth to the fight roster. Nintendo has released a solitary screenshot to go along with the announcement.
Fri, Jul 19, 2013 | 05:07 BST
Fire Emblem trademarks filed in Japan
Nintendo Japan has filed two new trademarks, for Fire Emblem and Emblem. While the trademarks have sparked speculation that a new title is imminent, Fire Emblem: Awakening is still pretty fresh, so don't get too excited. As for why Nintendo didn't already hold these trademarks, there was some talk of Awakening being the last entry in the series – before it went on to win hearts, fire loins and sell gangbusters. The Japanese language trademarks are viewable on DualShockers.
Thanks, Cube3d.
Fri, May 03, 2013 | 18:39 BST
Fire Emblem: Awakening DLC censored in US and EU due to overexposed posterior
Summer Scramble, the latest DLC released for Fire Emblem: Awakening, has been reportedly edited by Nintendo in North America and Europe due to it showing off the bottom-most part of Tharja's buttocks.
Tue, Apr 02, 2013 | 22:46 BST
Fire Emblem: Awakening team was divided over Casual mode inclusion
"That's not Fire Emblem," one Intelligent Systems staff member said when confronted with the idea of introducing a Casual mode to turn-based RPG series Fire Emblem, which traditionally punishes carelessness with permadeath.
Tue, Jan 29, 2013 | 20:34 GMT
Fire Emblem: Awakening character progression trailer released
Fire Emblem: Awakening has a new trailer available, which shows you how the game's character progression system will work. The game contains 40 classes which can be changed using certain items and weapons, and you can also upgrade to a higher class. Fire Emblem: Awakening is out on February 4 in North America on 3DS and sometime during April in Europe.
Sat, Jan 12, 2013 | 14:36 GMT
Fire Emblem: Awakening 3DS bundle announced for US, Canada
A Fire Emblem: Awakening 3DS bundle has been announced by Nintendo of America for the US and Canada. Announced overnight through Twitter, the hardware bundle contains a cobalt blue 3DS with the game's logo etched on it – same as the one released in Japan back in April 2012 – and the game itself is pre-installed on the system. NoA didn't provide a price for the bundle, but said more information will be made available soon. Shots of the lovely colored 3DS and its box are below. A demo for the game will be made available on the eShop January 17. It releases through the shop and at retail February 4 in North America. The game lands in Europe in April
Thu, Jun 07, 2012 | 06:16 BST
Fire Emblem: Awakening will release in the west
Nintendo has confirmed that Intelligent Systems' tactical RPG Fire Emblem: Awakening is on the way to the US.
Sat, Apr 28, 2012 | 17:37 BST
Fire Emblem: Awakening sells through 81.63% of debut stock
Media Create has reported that Fire Emblem: Awakening sold through 81.63% of its debut shipment in Japan. The firm attributed the success of the title to being heavily promoted, as well as the updated character designs and new game systems. Awakening debuted at number one on the charts, moving 242,600 copies during its first week. Thanks, Siliconera.
Sat, Apr 21, 2012 | 15:37 BST
Nintendo Direct – Rune Factory 4, Animal Crossing 3DS, Mario Tennis Open, more
Nintendo announced many, many things during Nintendo Direct. Things such as: a release date for Rune Factory 4, daily DLC for Heroes of Ruin, and extra information on Mario Tennis Open. Below the break is a bullet list of some of the announcements, and also be sure to keep refreshing the front page for the larger bits hitting the site.
Thu, Mar 01, 2012 | 08:19 GMT
Nintendo announces Cobalt Blue 3DS for Japan
Nintendo's announced a new 3DS colour for Japan in the form of Cobalt Blue.
Sat, Feb 14, 2009 | 22:37 GMT
Nintendo isn't threatened by iPhone or PSP
Speaking to IGN, Denise Kaigler, Nintendo's vice president of corporate affairs, has said the company sees zero threat in iPhone or PSP, because is applauds "any device that spurs interest in on-the-go gaming, because that helps expand a form of entertainment that has always been one of our core strengths".
Kaigler went on to say that "consumers purchased 9.95 million hardware systems in the United States [last year], an all-time record for a portable system. On top of that they bought nearly 60 million games for Nintendo DS. Clearly people are still finding fun and interesting ways to spend their time with the system."
With Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon coming in February, followed by Pokemon Platinum and GTA: Chinatown Wars in March and Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time coming this spring, Kaigler concluded:
"Nintendo DS and the upcoming Nintendo DSi will continue to stand out with games and experiences that just aren't possible on any other system."
Good for you, Denise.
More through the link.


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OPEN DAILY 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Come see for yourself why visitors like you have rated the Tennessee Aquarium the best aquarium in America for 3 consecutive years! Enjoy a remarkable journey with 10,000 animals. Then, let us take you to places you've only imagined at Chattanooga's IMAX 3D movie theater with a screen six stories tall. Ride the River Gorge Explorer, the most thrilling Chattanooga riverboat cruise. Discount ticket packages make visiting the best Chattanooga attractions easy and affordable.
The big, toothy sharks at the Aquarium fascinate guests of all ages. See what it's like to dive with sandbar and sand tiger sharks. Look closely and you'll notice the sharks closely eyeing the diver and camera. >> watch now
The River Giants exhibit features a collection of freshwater megafish. Arapaima, barramundi, alligator gar, wallago, giant freshwater rays and more! >> learn more
Guests are invited to meet a waddle of penguins, a shiver of sharks and a smack of jellyfish during Holidays Under the Peaks - November 22nd to January 6th. Aquarium educators and animal experts will deliver daily programs to help connect visitors to some of nature's most wonderful gifts.
Back by popular demand, "The Polar Express: An IMAX 3D Experience" is returning this holiday season. Audiences will become totally immersed in the IMAX 3D presentation - grasping at falling snowflakes, ducking as the train screeches into their lap and feeling the howl of the steam whistle via state-of-the-art digital surround sound..
The Tennessee Aquarium's Backstage Pass gives you VIP access to get up-close and touch and feed Aquarium animals. Put yourself in the boots of one of the Aquarium's animal keepers with a Backstage Pass.
Looking for a fun getaway this holiday season? The Tennessee Aquarium has teamed up with the best Chattanooga hotels to offer special deals and experiences in the city Southern Living calls "One of America's Top Weekend Getaways". Explore options designed to ensure your planning is easy and your trip is rewarding and fun-filled.
Tennessee Aquarium is the ideal riverfront Chattanooga meeting facility. Hosting a wedding reception, holiday party, corporate event or just looking for meeting rooms in Chattanooga? TN Aquarium offers a variety of choices including the Aquarium, IMAX Theater or River Gorge Explorer.
Be sure to check out our online gift shop for fun and unique gifts that will delight anyone on your list. From beautiful jewelry to fun t-shirts and plush animals we have hundreds of gifts to browse.
By diving in now, you'll be among the first to learn about new animals and exhibits, conservation programs, special events at the Aquarium and new films coming to the IMAX 3D Theater.


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Tillægsgebyrer for ekstra opredninger kan forekomme og varierer afhængigt af hotelpolitikken.
Offentlig udstedt billed-id og kreditkort eller kontant depositum afkræves ved indtjekning til dækning af påløbende udgifter.
Særlige ønsker afhænger af tilgængelighed ved indtjekning og kan medføre ekstra tillægsgebyrer. Særlige ønsker kan ikke garanteres.
**Faciliteterne forefindes muligvis kun i nogle værelser eller enheder. For nogle faciliteter kan der forekomme ekstra gebyrer.
Fritidsfaciliteterne på dette hotel omfatter et fitnessrum og en sæsonbestemt udendørs pool.
De rekreative aktiviteter, der er vist nedenfor, findes på stedet eller i nærheden. Tillægsgebyrer kan forekomme.
Følgende tillægsgebyrer og deposita bliver opkrævet af hotellet, når servicen bruges eller ved ind- eller udtjekning.
Ovenstående liste er ikke udtømmende. Tillægsgebyrer og deposita inkluderer muligvis ikke skat og kan ændres uden varsel.
Tillægsgebyrer for ekstra opredninger kan forekomme og varierer afhængigt af hotelpolitikken.
Offentlig udstedt billed-id og kreditkort eller kontant depositum afkræves ved indtjekning til dækning af påløbende udgifter.
Særlige ønsker afhænger af tilgængelighed ved indtjekning og kan medføre ekstra tillægsgebyrer. Særlige ønsker kan ikke garanteres.
"Loved it"
My family and I loved it, we'll definitely stay there againÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Under Renovation"
Hotel was not what I expected. It is under renovation currently, but the furniture and room were not at the level of other Hawthorne Suites I have stayed at in the past.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Great location for Scene 75 Events"
Nice facility, rooms showed a little wear. Helpful staff, and a nice breakfast.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Comfortable, Well Equipped"
A very good value, roomy and well equipped for a short or long stayÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
I would stay here againÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
Not as clean as I was expecting - room was a little run down.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Very good for what I paid for"
It is a very nice studio suite for a reasonable price. The breakfast was good and service was friendly. The only down side was that there was not much hot water when I took a shower in the morning.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"4 out of 5 rating, seriously"
motel was scarey and shadey, people hanging out in parking lot, construction clutter, room dated and run down, very uncomfortable feeling, didn't spend night, left after 30 mins. in room, would not recommend.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"I love this place"
I've never had any issues staying here, I always refer out of town guest and family to this establishment for a clean and safe nights rest. There were some construction issues but that was on to enhance an already beautiful hotel. The front desk receptionist at checking in&out were both friendly and informative.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Wright-Patterson Marathon Weekend"
It would have been nice if mgmt allowed people in the marathon to check out at 2:00 so that they could get a shower after the marathon. Most of the people staying there were participating in the marathon and that is all busn that they would have not had otherwise.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"under some construction"
The room was nice once I found it. Had to go through construction to get to it. The people were nice and the breakfast was great!Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
Absolutely filthy, should be torn down, not remodeled! Can't believe this is one of your properties. Worst I've ever been in!Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Great Staff, Old Worn Down Rooms"
I stayed here for 8 consecutive nights and the first night my neighbors were outside at 11pm drinking and smoking on their doorstep and talking pretty loudly. I found out later that they are permanent residents there, I immediately changed rooms the next day. The beds in both rooms were old, the first was a saggy block of foam and the next was a saggy […] box spring. The carpets in both rooms are outdated and hard to tell if they are clean or not. The kitchens are ok, most utensils/appliances are old and worn. The staff at this hotel were kind and helpful and that is all this hotel has going for it. The breakfast was AWFUL, they waffle iron burned the waffles to a crisp and the other food was cold and plain. I honestly would not stay here again. Just being honest. Læs mereÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Great Value"
We were intown for UD Parent's weekend. The local hotels really jack up the prices. We have used this hotel the last few times. It is not the newest, but good value. Clean and convenient. This highway exit has Sams, Walmart Superstore, and tons of restuarants. AC worked well. Quiet complex. I like having the small kitchen in the unit, but unfortunately […] the the coffee make didnt work. It worked well for storing the large amount of food we brought down to cook for parent's weekend. We were able to get coffee in the lobby in the morning. Bathroom is small. I did really like the new laminate in the bedroom sitting room area. It is a huge improvement over old carpet. Læs mereÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Ring around the Rooms"
Room #1 room was dark and not very clean, mold in the bathroom and ragged carpet. Bed ok. Lady above left tub running and it rained in the bathroom. Moved to room #2, walked in on a couple of guys watching the football game, that was embarrising. Room #3 very nice. This room was for handlicapped folks but it was cleaner and brighter, not as much mold.The […] beds were fine and the service was wonderful, it's just that they didn't have that much to work with. Nice full breakfast. The rooms seemed to vary greatly so check your room before unpacking. Læs mereÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Surprisingly pleasing!"
So we are on our way home from a trip. Rather than drive another 8 hours, we decide to stop for the night. We chose this location based in the reviews and the poor reviews of some other locations. Imagine my surprise when we pull into a residence type hotel, total surprise! Never imagined that they do rooms by the night! Staff was super friendly and […] helpful even though it was close to 11 p.m. Included in the room rate is a full hot breakfast! Woohoo! My stay is made! We got to the room, it was nice, clean, couldn't complain. Free wi-fi too. There was some construction going on but that's good, they are making something better. My only complaint is that we couldn't stay longer. I definitely recommend this hotel! Læs mereÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Excellent place to be"
Stayed for 2 nights to attend a family function and this hotel is definately a must stay. I've traveled and stayed in many places in my lifetime and certainly find it rare to be impressed at hotel rooms. But this place is great. Full, clean kitchen, spacious sofa area, fireplaces in most rooms, even 2 stool chairs so you can sit at the kitchen counter! […] Very nice. My daughter and her husband also were there in a 2 bedroom suite with the same setup as us, but with a second bedroom and bath upstairs. Breakfast was more than the usual bread goodies and also included pancakes, scrambled eggs, hash browns, sausage patties on one day, then changed it up the next day with a different egg meat, and potato combo. Don't think twice to stay here! Læs mereÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"John - Front Desk * Amazing Customer Service"
We did a late check-in, and on the website it looked like we were getting a one bedroom suite, as my boyfriend is a light sleeper and requires this for good rest when we are travelling. That's the main reason why I booked here as it was going to be one of our stops on the way to Florida. John apologized for the misunderstanding and upgraded us to a […] two bedroom loft penthouse for no extra cost. I am very satisfied with the convenient location off the I-75, and they did offer a complimentary hot buffet breakfast, however we slept in instead of grabbing food early in the morning. They even allowed us to check out one hour later at no extra cost. Not bad, I have to say for a charge of $60.00 including taxes. If we go this route again, I will definitely return. Give John a raise... he was very hospitable and made our stay a wonderful one for travellers. Læs mereÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Room was filthy & staff not helpful"
The staff was friendly, but not helpful with directions or recommending places to eat. It was advertised as being an event hotel for an event that took us 30 minutes to get to. It is so far away from anything in town, we missed events because we couldn't get there on time. The room was dirty. The carpet was stained & so dirty we wore flip flops the […] whole time. The couch was so dirty, we wouldn't sit on it. There are no ice machines & the person at the desk suggested we go to McDonalds to get some, which is 15 minutes away!! We wanted extra towels but had to wait until some dried. Would never recommend this hotel. Would also question whether I would go to any Hawthorne Suites hotel after this experience! Læs mereÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
location good, numerous resteraunts nearby, had construction at hotel which limited parking and some noise. was convenient to AFB where we had businessÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Convenient location, dirty room"
This hotel is undergoing a remodel job. Construction equipment and workers were on exterior. Hopefully the interior will be next. The price was great, but the sacrifice of cleanliness was not worth it. I booked this hotel for two nights - once on the way to our destination from Iowa to North Carolina and also on the return trip. The hotel is very convenient […] on/off of I-75. However, we had our 10 month old and 2 1/2 year old with us. On both stays (in different rooms) within 1 hour their feet were covered in grime from the dirty carpet, and in the second room/second stay my 2 year old kept finding dog food kernels on the floor. One could see the potential of these rooms being very quaint - so call ahead to see if the construction and remodel is complete before you book. Otherwise be prepared! Læs mereÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Right price, quiet night"
Essentially an economy Residence Inn. Great wifi. So-so bed.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Not dirty, but RUN DOWN!!"
I can't say that this was a dirty place. I CAN say that the owners/franchisee should be ashamed of themselves for letting the condition of this hotel get to where it has. Everything is dated. Everything is old. The wear and tear is unbelievable.Ægte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
We stayed at Hawthorn Suites for the Gentlemen of the Road Stopover in Troy, Ohio. Hawthorn was conveniently located on I75 and close to numerous chain restaurants and big box stores. The staff was quite friendly and helpful. The room itself would have been great for a different type of stay (we were not in our room much at all) as it had a stove and […] refrigerator. The continental breakfast was also good. My big complaint was that our pull-out love seat had dog hair all over it. If they are going to allow pets, they should probably pay closer attention to cleaning up the hair. We stopped into the office and got an extra sheet to cover up the dog hair. Definitely not the worst hotel I've ever stayed in and, if we were down in the area again, I would probably think about booking at Hawthorn again. Læs mereÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Nice hotel for the right price"
I really liked the size of the rooms for the price. It felt like a small apartment and having a fully stocked kitchen, with everything needed to cook, really allowed me to eat healthier and save money on eating out. I would def stay at this hotel again.Ægte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
The hotel staff was so nice and easy going, and the breakfast was actually much more than we expected it to be. Very good. I would definitely stay here again. Not to mention the rates are super low for so much.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"First and Last time at Hawthorne"
Room was extremely dirty...carpets looked like they were not vaccumed, kitchen counters were dirty and sticky. Beds were dirty, I first thought it was bedbugs. Pillows were stained and some had nothing left to them. Light switches didn't work, had to walk around in the dark to find a lamp to turn on. Told Manager about it and he had no comment.Ægte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
"Great place, great price!!"
Great hotel at a great price! As a family of 5, it was wonderful to have a king bedroom, queen bedroom, a sofabed, and 2 full bathrooms. The only negatives--the pillows were lumpy and the water pressure was poor.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Comfortable Bed, Outdated Facility needs updated"
The bed was very comfortable, pillows were ok. Room was clean. However, place is in bad need of being updated. Couch was probably from the 70s and has stuffing literally coming out of it in ripped spots. Carpet was probably about from same time frame and was wrinkled up. Facilities just overall needed maintenance and updated. Pool was very cloudy and […] green. Did not swim, was not clean enough to consider doing so. For the price overall was ok. Læs mereÆgte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
"Nice inviting hotel, everything was perfect"
Home away from home but better. I felt like I could just relax and take a load off. Everything you can imagine of comfort was there. From the kitchenette and couch bed to extra linens and a very comfortable bed. After my stay I want to only stay in this hotel if they are available on future trips.Ægte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
"Excellent spot near freeway"
Hotel was awesome! Couldn't believe the price we got. The only complaint was that the carpet was pretty grimy. Appeared to be in good shape so maybe a good healthy steam cleaning would do it.Ægte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
"not impressed"
I should have had some idea what I was in for when I saw people hanging off the balcony with party streamers folks emptying out there car trunks in the parking lot and the not so well maintained property. At least 3 parties the smoke detector kept going off toilet seat and closet doors broken light bulbs out .....never againÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Good value for the money."
Comfortable but the room was a little warm . Couldn't tegulaye temp.Ægte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
"Clean and Simple"
We flew into Dayton and stayed here prior to a long drive the following day. The hotel was a great value -- clean, friendly, simple, safe. It was not a fancy hotel with lots of amenities, but for less than fifty bucks, it was a bargain. The front desk staff was very welcoming. Would definitely stay here again if passing through the area.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"OK stopover"
Near the intersection of I70 and I75, this is a convenient stop. Rooms were large, reasonably clean, and for the most part comfortable. Staff was young and clueless.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
At 7am thedoor to thelobby was closed for checkout. The mattress sagged in the middle.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Get's the Job Done"
The hotel serves its purpose well. The facility, rooms and appliances are older but kept clean and get the job done. The location of the hotel is a little off track, and nothing within walking distance. For the price however the suites were a good value.Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Great Stay After a Long Day of Driving!!!"
My husband and I were traveling across country for a wedding with 2 teenagers in tow(our niece and nephew). We had 2 suites for the 4 of us in Dayton, Ohio. Our nephew loved the fitness room since football season is around the corner he didnt want to miss his workouts. Our niece loved the pool. My husband and I love the spaciousness of the suite, the […] kids played cards and my husband and I could have some privacy to plan the next leg of our journey. I have to say, as a woman, I love creature comforts like the full kitchen to cook and eat in, and also the bed was the most comfortable bed I have ever slept on. I plan to call the hotel to ask because I have to buy one of those beds. The staff were wonderful and helpful and very professional. If I ever need to pick a hotel again I won't check into any place else! Læs mereÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Old run down"
Carpets were VERY dirty, our socks were brown after walking around 5 minutes. The show curtain rod was falling off the wall, water spout was not attached very well in the shower, the toilet handle was broke, the carpet near the kitchen was greasy. Attempted to use the hide-a-bed but the mattress had rust on it from the frame and was very dirty. I didn't […] want to touch anything. We were told this was a king size bed and it was a full size. Would NEVER recommend this place. Læs mereÆgte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
"Nice place to lodge"
Check-in was quick and professional. The staff was helpful with local directions. The hot breakfast was much better than average. Coffee was excellent and available all day long. Parking is a bit of a problem, we had to walk a ways to our room, but we all know walking is good for us!!!Ægte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
"More than I expected for the price."
My husband and I stayed one night at the hotel. Check in was very easy, breakfast was good. The outdoor pool looked very nice; however, we did not swim. The room was clean, well laid out and functional. Flat screen television and a fully functional kitchen with utensils. We were more than pleased with our stay at the very reasonable ate. We did not […] take our dog, but dogs are welcome and it was nice to see them with their families. The hotel was close to the freeway but did not see any restaurants within walking distance. Læs mereÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"7 -8 hours from our home in GA - traveling to MI"
It was great for our family of 4 to book 2 suites. Loved the design and COMFORT!Ægte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Interesting choice for being 3 stars"
I used the Expedia unpublished rate and ended up staying here. It was a typical extended stay hotel. The check in staff was cordial but not overly friendly. My first impression was that the hotel cold use a little refreshing in terms of the decor and the cleanliness. There were a ton of contractors smoking on their porches and we had to walk through […] the cloud of smoke to get to the stairs that led to out room. The room was quiet which was nice. When we walked it the temperature was perfect. However, the bed needed to be replaced. When my wife and I went to sleep, the mattress was so bad that we both rolled to the middle. The shower knobs were all backward so it was hard to adjust the water temperature. I do not think I would stay here again. Læs mereÆgte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
"I really loved the room. Next year ill book there"
I had a great room. Very clean and comfortable. The area was beautiful and the fireplace in the room was a nuce touch.Ægte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
very niceÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Not what I expected"
Rooms were not well maintained....dirty. Not what I expected. I would rate this 2 star at bestÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
Beautiful, great service and great price!!! Will stay againÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
"Spacious and adequate lodging"
No complaints about the room cleanliness or size. Bed was comfortable and appreciated the large suite-style layout. Exterior was clean and generally maintained but it, along with the room interior were slightly dated, including appliances, fixtures and doors but furniture was modern and in good condition. One considerable disappointment was that the […] pool was closed for the evening due to coloring/chemical imbalance. With proper monitoring this should have not occured. I selected this hotel in part precisely because of the pool for my two young children. However, breakfast provided was more than adequate with plenty of selection. Overall it was a good stay and I would use the hotel again. Læs mereÆgte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
The room I saw online and booked was not the room we received. We booked two rooms for a total of 6 people. There were not enough towels for all of us and when I went to the office to get more they said they did not have access to the linen closet and could not provide us with more towels. (It was after 10 pm. when we arrived) The room smelled musty […] and the carpet was old and needed to be replaced. The free breakfast was not worth the price. It was horrible. Coffee was the only decent thing about the place. Don't waste your money. Læs mereÆgte Expedia-gæsteanmeldelse
"Handy to most restaurants, breakfast very good."
Noisy outside , big semi truck running very loud pump motor or something before 7 am. Otherwise stay was okÆgte Hotels.com-gæsteanmeldelse
Anmeldelser og bedømmelser, der findes på dette websted, er subjektive meninger fra kunder og leverandører. De repræsenterer eller gengiver ikke Hotels.coms mening. Hverken Hotels.com eller de parter, der er involveret i at stille indholdet i anmeldelser til rådighed kan holdes ansvarlige for eventuelle skader af nogen art, som er resultatet af brug af disse anmeldelser.


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Caring Times News
Providers omitted from care home review in Wales
Caring Times, December 2013
A review of residential care for older people in Wales has been criticised because it will be missing out on vital expertise from the social care sector. Care Forum Wales is disappointed that the Older People's Commissioner in Wales will not have a 'provider expert' on her official advisory panel.
The organisation, which represents 500 providers in Wales, believes it would also be important to consider the impact of chronic underfunding on the sector. Commissioner Sarah Rochira said the review team would make unannounced visits to 100 care homes as part of the process.
Mario Kreft MBE, the Chair of Care Forum Wales, said: " We support the overall aims of the review and its stated methodology.
"Our disappointment however is that the Commissioner has not included a provider expert on the main advisory panel.
"As far as we can see, … Read More »
Care survey warns of a mass exodus by home owners in Wales
careinfo.org – latest
More than a third of care home owners in Wales don't expect to be in business in five years' time. That's the stark warning from Care Forum Wales (CFW) – which represents more than 500 independent care providers following a survey conducted with members.
According to CFW, home owners are becoming increasingly disenchanted with the chronic underfunding of the sector and difficulties in recruiting staff because of the lack of funding which suppresses pay. If the predicted exodus happens it would place an extra burden on the NHS that's already creaking under the strain. Key findings of the survey included:
– 34% of respondents expected to quit over the next five years;
– 73.4% were having difficulty recruiting staff;
– 60% were unhappy with the current inspection regime.
CFW chair Mario Kreft said he wasn't surprised that people were thinking of throwing … Read More »
Accredited inspection of care homes pilot programme announced
The United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) has called for participants in a pilot assessment programme for the accreditation of care home inspections. The scheme is for organisations that perform inspections of residential adult social care providers and aims to improve the standard of care.
Participants will be assessed by UKAS against the international standard ISO/IEC 17020:2012 (Conformity assessment – Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection). This sets out general criteria for impartiality, competence and performance capability of inspection bodies.
UKAS development manager Lal Ilan said. "One of the key objectives of the pilot programme is to verify the appropriateness of the standards used for inspection and their application in the inspection of care homes.
"The objectives and terms of the pilot project will be discussed with key stakeholders and those organisations expressing an interest to participate in the … Read More »
Providers warn of 'perfect storm' if registration fees are levied in Wales
Caring Times, November 2013
Care home owners are urging the Welsh Government to abandon plans to reintroduce registration fees. Care Forum Wales (CFW)believes the measure would be counterproductive, putting some independent providers at risk and potentially reducing the standards of care.
The Welsh Government has launched a consultation seeking views about proposals contained in a White Paper on the future of regulation and inspection of care and support in Wales.
CFW chair Mario Kreft said the idea included in the White Paper of imposing fees was a matter of great concern to members across Wales.
"We welcome the broad thrust of the White Paper," said Mr Kreft.
"We're very pleased that we're moving to an outcomes-based approach and listening to the people who are receiving social care services.
"Importantly, the legislation will close a loophole which enables firms based in England who provide care services in … Read More »
Sign-up now for Care Agenda 2014
Caring Times, November 2013
Care Agenda, the networking meeting for the care home sector, will take place on 6th February, 2014, at the Ettington Chase Hotel, Stratford upon Avon. This will be the eighth consecutive staging of the annual event, now organised solely by Caring Times.
Caring Times editor-in-chief Dr Richard Hawkins said the West Midlands venue had been carefully selcted to provide superb facilities and easy access.
"Senior managers of nursing and residential homes providing elderly care are invited to attend the meeting free of charge, while sector suppliers can attend as sponsors," said Dr Hawkins.
"The event programme includes a Hot Topics Q&A session and networking opportunities, plus supplier-provider meetings, enabling face-to-face interaction between buyers and suppliers."
Care Agenda is free to attend for care providers and provides an ideal opportunity to meet and discuss key issues. There is alo the opportunity to … Read More »
CQC consults on next year's fees
Caring Times, November 2013
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has publisheds a consultation about the fees that it proposes to charge registered providers in 2014/15.
This year's consultation includes proposals to:
Increase fees for all providers by 2.5%.
Change the bandings for residential care home providers to reduce the 'cliff edge' effect of the current model (this is where a small change to the size of the service can take a provider into a higher fee band).
Introduce a measure to differentiate single location dental providers by the size of their practice, so we can more equitably charge fees to these providers from April 2014.
Make a minor technical change to a definition in the fees scheme in relation to residential substance misuse and specialist college services to make its application clearer.
Ombudsman lifts lid on top-up charges
– 'providers cannot charge for service already paid for by councils'
Caring Times, November 2013
A recent decision by a Local Government Ombudsman (LGO) concerning the charging of a "top-up" fee by a private care provider is likely to change the nature of future contracts for publicly-funded care home placements.
Local Government Ombudsman Dr Jane Martin has reminded councils across England that they are responsible for the actions of the care homes they work with. The reminder follows an LGO investigation into Merton Council in which a contracted private home, Sutton Court Care Centre, asked a family to pay top-up fees – which the LGO says they had no right to demand.
The issue surfaced when the family of an elderly woman contacted the council about having to pay the difference between the allowance their relative was entitled to from the council and the … Read More »
This cap won't fit! – report says care funding reforms won't work
Government reforms to cap people's care costs, due to be launched in 2016, will fail to meet any of its objectives, argues a new report by the Strategic Society Centre in partnership with Bupa. The report says the reforms:
Will not cap people's care costs, given most individuals pay more for care than what their local authority contributes, particularly in residential care;
Will not give people peace of mind because of annual increases in the value of the 'cap' by around £3,000 per year;
Will not enable people to prepare for the costs of care because the £72,000 'liability' individuals are left with is uninsurable, and there will be no insurance market in response to the reforms.
In 2010, the Government launched the Commission on Funding of Care and Support, chaired by Andrew Dilnot. Dilnot proposed a 'capped cost' model for long-term care funding in … Read More »
Nearly 1,500 UK care homes could go bust
A report published in the onlineTelegrpah says the care home industry is in a state of crisis, according to research commissioned by Company Watch, a specialist at tracking and predicting financial risk.
It has discovered that a third of British care homes have notched up unsustainable levels of debt. The report has given rise to fears that many care homes could crumble under their financial commitments, the same fate that befell Southern Cross, the care home operator that went bust in 2011.
Company Watch has surveyed 4,872 firms, operating 20,000 care homes across the UK between them. Of these, 1,449 have been rated as "financially vulnerable".
"[These] have a one in four chance of needing a financial rescue," said the report.
Almost 700 were also found to be "zombie" business, companies with liabilities worth more than their assets. The combined negative net worth of … Read More »
Workforce is ageing
Caring Times, September 2013
The National Care Forum (NCF) has published its annual survey of staff which draws on data from 44 member organisations covering about 51,000 staff.
NCF executive director Des Kelly the survey had now been conducted for 10 consecutive years and changes anf trends could be therefore mapped.
"While there are some positive indicators such as the continued improvement in qualification rates and a slight drop in turnover rates for care home settings, there is once again a strong reminder that the workforce in social care is ageing with fewer young people attracted to working in the sector," said Mr Kelly.
On the positive side, the average qualification rate is slightly up on previous years at 68.3% (care workers) and 81.6% for managers.
"The survey confirms what we know about the ageing of the workforce with 49.5% of staff aged 45 and … Read More »


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Welcome to The IIA
Established in 1941, The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is an international professional association of more than 170,000 members. Throughout the world, The IIA is recognized as the internal audit profession's leader in certification, education, research, and technical guidance.
Internal Auditor Online Blogs
How to Build an IT Audit Plan - CHAMBERS ON THE PROFESSION:
Internal Auditors Should be 'Willing to Throw the Flag' Before the Play - FROM THE MIND OF JACKA:
It's All About Agreement - Part 4 - Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying... - KIKO'S WORLD:
Goals - THE SOAPBOX:
Are We Measuring Risk Without a Yardstick?
Find Your Local IIA
The IIA is represented worldwide through 103 institutes and has 153 chapters in the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean.
Partnership Program | Resource Directory |


text:
Body Sculpture BM1505 Power Slimmer
- Was
- Was £159.00
- Now
- Now £135.00
- Save £24.00
- In Stock
- Delivery
- Next day delivery available
28 reviewsReduce fat and tone up to improve muscle definition with the Body Sculpture Power Slimmer BM1505.
If used correctly, this effective vibro exerciser provides a major time saving compared to normal workouts, allowing you to reach your goals quicker.
The built-in computer offers 3 preset programmes and 4 speed ranges that are great for building fitness, helping flexibility, circulation, hormone secretion, metabolic rate, muscle development and fatty tissue reduction.
The Body Sculpture Power Slimmer BM1505's remote control also makes it easier to adjust while you stand on the twisting vibration plate.
Vibration training is long established among top athletes and NASA astronauts as an effective and efficient in achieving muscular development and flexibility, plus a reduction of fatty tissue.
This versatile vibro plate can also be used to help with aches and pains or as an effective warm-down after intensive exercise.
Useful info:- Assembled dimensions: H 108, W 63, D 53 cm
- Hand-held remote control
- Small and portable, ideal for home use
- 3 preset programmes and 4 speed ranges
- Some home assembly required
- Maximum user weight 100kg (16stone)
- Body Sculpture Power Slimmer BM1505
Body Sculpture BR-6730 Magnetic Exercise Bike
- Was
- Was £159.00
- Now
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- Save £30.00
- In Stock
- Delivery
- Next day delivery available
48 reviewsGet in stunning shape with this Body Sculpture BR-6730 exercise bike without even leaving the house.
It's easy to use, with eight levels of magnetic resistance using a 4 kg flywheel so you can tailor your workout to suit your needs.You can opt for a gentler pace to ease yourself in, or turn up the resistance to really feel the burn.
It's the perfect way to tone up and improve your fitness levels without those expensive gym fees. You can even watch TV as you exercise to help pass the time.An adjustable saddle height ensures a comfortable workout, while the onboard computer measures speed, distance and calories burned to help keep you on track.
This exercise bike also comes with transport wheels for easy manoeuvrability once you've finished working up a sweat.
Useful info:
- Assembled dimensions: H 120, W 51, L 84.5 cm
- 4kg flywheel
- Adjustable saddle height
- Transport wheels
- Maximum user weight: 120kg (19st)
- 8 levels of magnetic resistance
- Body Sculpture BR-6730 magnetic exercise bike
Body Sculpture BR-3160 Magnetic Rowing Machine
- Was
- Was £199.00
- Now
- Now £169.00
- Save £30.00
- In Stock
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- Next day delivery available
19 reviewsThe Body Sculpture BR-3160 is a high-quality magnetic rowing machine that folds away easily after use.
Built with a 1.6kg flywheel and an aluminium track, it has a super smooth rowing action that ensures comfortable training, allowing you to push yourself for longer.
Adjustable resistance, a deluxe padded seat and large foot plates with adjustable straps make the Body Sculpture BR-3160 rowing machine an essential piece of home workout equipment.
Chart your progress with the computer screen showing calories burned, time, count and scan. This also makes it easy for you to set targets, achieve your goals and really feel the burn.
Useful info:- Assembled dimensions: H 44.5, W 52, L 197.5 cm
- Folded dimensions: H 110, W 52, L 87.5 cm
- Foldable gym style rower
- Maximum user weight 120kg (18st)
- 1.6kg flywheel
- Aluminium track for smooth rowing action
- Deluxe saddle
- Onboard computer
- Magnetic brake system
- Body Sculpture BR-3160 rowing machine


text:
It's no secret that going to college can be expensive. Students no longer just have to think about the cost of tuition, dormitory costs, meal plans and books. These days, students have to think about additional expenses such as health insurance, travel costs for going home, cell phones, dining on or off campus, computers, and other daily expenses.
It can all add up pretty quickly, so before you're in over your head, understanding the importance of managing your money, establishing credit, and learning how to spend it wisely, will help you to appreciate the fruits of your labor.


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When I know there was a last piece of my fav. snack in the fridge and someone took it... But won't admit it.
Originally Posted by akbar I'd rather masturbate to your picture of Carnage. Originally Posted by B-MCINTYRE DRG hates everyone
Originally Posted by Dennis You and your lawyer stay away from my manhood!
''Ricardo Rodriguez is the best character on WWE TV.''
IWA Revolution Creative Team WWE/IWA/RTE Originally Posted by VanHooliganX Friendly reminder that Ashley is fucking awesome.
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