text:
Section 26.3
August 2004
TO: Manual Holders
FROM: Terry Jordan, Director Staffing Services Division
SUBJECT: Attendance and Leave Items 2003-2007 Negotiated Agreements
Administrative Services Unit (ASU), Institutional Services Unit (ISU), Operational Services Unit (OSU)
Effective Dates
Holiday Leave for Thanksgiving and Christmas
Holiday Recall
Liquidation of Vacation Credits
Sick Leave Accumulation
Sick Leave at Half-Pay
Leave for Licensure/Certification
Maternity and Child Rearing Leave
Leave Donation Program
Holidays for Seasonal Employees
Leave Adjustment Program for Part-Time Annual Salaried Employees
Medical Certification
Workers' Compensation
Productivity Enhancement Program
Over40 Comp Time
The following material has been prepared to assist you in implementing the new or revised attendance and leave provisions contained in the 2003-2007 agreements negotiated with CSEA. References to applicable sections of the State Attendance and Leave Manual (Manual) are included.
Questions concerning this material should be directed to the Attendance and Leave Unit of the Department of Civil Service at (518) 457-2295.
Effective Dates
These provisions are effective as of April 27, 2004, the date of ratification of these Agreements, except as follows:
|Sick Leave Accumulation-
200 Days Used for Retirement Service Credit
|April 2, 2003
|Holidays for Seasonal Employees
|October 1, 2004
|Leave Adjustment Program for Part-Time
Annual Salaried Employees-
Ability to Receive Vacation Adjustment at a Higher Rate
|Payroll Period #1
of Fiscal Year
|Workers' Compensation
|Disabilities on or
July 1, 2004
|Over40 Comp Time
|July 16, 2004
Subject: Holiday Leave for Thanksgiving and
Unit and Item: ASU Article 7.16(d), ISU Article 7.16(d), OSU Article 7.16(d)
Manual Reference: Section 21.1
Eligible employees in these units who are required to work on the days observed by the State as the Thanksgiving and Christmas Day holidays are eligible to receive holiday compensation in the form of holiday pay or holiday leave at the time and one- half rate. Previously, holiday pay, but not holiday leave, was available at the time and one-half rate for holidays worked.
The maximum number of hours of holiday compensatory time (holiday leave) credited for work on the Thanksgiving or Christmas Day holidays is 11.25 for 7.5 hours worked or 12 hours for 8 hours worked.
When the Thanksgiving or Christmas Day holidays fall on an eligible employee's pass day, and the employee does not work on that pass day holiday, the employee continues to be credited with holiday leave for the pass day holiday at the straight time rate up to a maximum of 7.5 or 8 hours.
For overtime eligible employees holiday compensation (holiday pay or holiday leave) continues to be available for work during the hours that fall within or correspond to the employee's regular work hours, up to a maximum of 7.5 or 8 hours. For such employees whose regularly scheduled workday exceeds 7.5 or 8 hours, holiday compensation (holiday pay or holiday leave) continues to be available for the first 7.5 or 8 hours of the designated holiday shift.
For overtime ineligible employees, holiday compensation (holiday pay or holiday leave) continues to be available for the first 7.5 or 8 hours worked on the holiday.
Subject: Holiday Recall
Unit and Item: ASU Article 7.16(c), ISU Article 7.16(c), OSU Article 7.16(c)
Manual Reference: Section 21.1
This provision extends the period of time during which holiday recall provisions apply for employees whose regular work shift exceeds 7.5 or 8 hours. Specifically, employees whose regular work shift is more than 7.5 or 8 hours are now covered by holiday recall provisions regardless of when the recall occurs during that regular work shift. Previously, holiday recall was only available for recalls during the first 7.5 or 8 hours of the designated holiday shift and employees who work extended days were not eligible for holiday recall if the recall occurred beyond the first 7.5 or 8 hours of the shift (the holiday portion of the shift).
Under the new provision, an employee who works a compressed workweek of four 10-hour days, for example, is now covered by holiday recall provisions if recalled during the last two hours of the shift, just as he/she is for recalls that occur during the first 8 hours of the shift.
Other holiday recall provisions continue unchanged. Holiday recall provisions continue to apply to overtime eligible employees recalled to work during their regularly scheduled hours of work on a holiday that is not a pass day. Each time an employee is recalled, he/she is entitled to a ½ day of holiday compensation (holiday pay or holiday leave) depending on the employee's election.
Employees who work their normal extended day shift on a holiday continue to be eligible for a maximum of 7.5 or 8 hours of holiday compensation (holiday pay or holiday leave) for time worked on a holiday. Similarly if a holiday falls on a pass day, they are eligible to be credited with a maximum of 7.5 or 8 hours of holiday leave. Finally when a holiday falls on a workday and they observe the holiday, they are entitled to a maximum of 7.5 or 8 hours of paid holiday observance.
Subject: Liquidation of Vacation Credits
Unit and Item: Side Letter - ASU Article 10.5, ISU Article 10.6, OSU Article 10.5
Manual Reference: Section 21.2
This is a renewal of a side letter from the 1999-2003 contract. The side letter requires that the following reminder be included in this contract implementation memo.
Agencies are encouraged, where possible subject to operating needs, to permit employees to liquidate accumulated vacation credits in excess of 30 days prior to separation.
The 30-day limit on vacation lump sum payment upon separation from service remains unchanged.
Subject: Sick Leave Accumulation
Unit and Item: ASU Article 10.6, ISU Article 10.7, OSU Article 10.7
Manual Reference: Section 21.3
These provisions increase the number of days of accrued and unused sick leave credits that may be used for retirement service credit at time of retirement from 165 days to 200 days. This change applies to employees who retire on or after April 2, 2003. The Office of the State Comptroller will advise agencies how any necessary adjustments are to be made.
Employees continue to be permitted to accrue up to 200 days of sick leave credits and to use up to 200 days of such credits to pay for health insurance in retirement.
Subject to the 200-day maximum described above, the same accrued sick leave days can be applied for both purposes. Application of sick leave balances for these purposes provides benefits based on an employee's sick leave balance at time of retirement, but does not actually liquidate those credits. Therefore, employees who return to State service within one year following retirement or who are reinstated at any time by the Civil Service Commission or other process of law are entitled to have their sick leave balance restored in full despite the fact that they received retirement service credit and credit applied toward their health insurance premiums in retirement based on that sick leave balance.
Subject: Sick Leave at Half-Pay
Unit and Item: ASU Article 10.8, ISU Article 10.15, OSU Article 10.9
Manual Reference: Section 21.5
These provisions modify certain sick leave at half-pay eligibility requirements, including the service requirement for eligibility, waiting period provisions, and provisions concerning termination of sick leave at half-pay in cases of permanent disability. The new service and waiting period provisions must be applied to absences on or after April 27, 2004, the date of ratification of these Agreements. Employees denied sick leave at half-pay under previous criteria for absences on or after April 27, 2004, including employees currently serving waiting periods, must have their eligibility reviewed again under the new criteria. Employees whose sick leave at half-pay was terminated because of a finding of permanent disability are entitled to be returned to sick leave at half-pay status for absences on or after April 27, 2004, provided they are otherwise eligible. However, employees are not entitled to be continued on sick leave at half- pay beyond the point that employment would otherwise end by operation of law, rule or regulation.
Service requirement
Employees are now required to have one cumulative year of State service in order to be eligible for sick leave at half-pay. Previously, employees were required to have one continuous year of State service in order to be eligible for sick leave at half-pay under these contract provisions.
Waiting period
Upon employee request, sick leave at half-pay must be granted immediately following exhaustion of leave credits except to employees who have been formally disciplined for leave abuse within the preceding year, provided they are otherwise eligible (i.e., must meet all eligibility requirements including furnishing medical documentation satisfactory to the agency).
Upon exhaustion of leave credits, employees who have been formally disciplined for leave abuse within the preceding year, but who are otherwise eligible for sick leave at half-pay, must be granted sick leave at half-pay following ten consecutive working days of absence (with or without charge to leave credits). However, that waiting period may be waived in appropriate cases at agency discretion.
The contract specifically defines the term "formally disciplined for leave abuse" to include only the following circumstances:
- A time and attendance notice of discipline was settled within one year preceding the request for sick leave at half-pay, or
- The employee has been found guilty of the time and attendance charges contained in the notice of discipline within one year preceding the request for sick leave at half- pay, or
- The employee did not contest the time and attendance notice of discipline serviced within one year preceding the request for sick leave at half-pay.
The date of the request for sick leave at half-pay means the date the requested sick leave at half-pay would commence. The preceding year is calculated back from the date the requested half-pay would commence.
A sick leave at half-pay waiting period cannot be imposed because of a pending notice of discipline that has not been resolved as described above. Notices of discipline regarding issues other than time and attendance or those dismissed by an arbitrator or umpire or withdrawn by the appointing authority cannot be used as a basis for imposing a waiting period for sick leave at half-pay. Warning letters, counseling memos, imposition of a one-day medical certification requirement or identification of an employee under an agency Sick Leave Control Program do not constitute a basis for imposing a waiting period for sick leave at half-pay.
Permanent Disability
Provisions permitting termination of sick leave at half-pay in cases of permanent disability have been eliminated. Employees found to be permanently disabled, but who are otherwise eligible for sick leave at half-pay, must be continued on sick leave at half-pay until their available sick leave at half- pay is exhausted or their employment ends by operation of law, rule or regulation, whichever occurs first.
Subject: Leave for Licensure/Certification
Unit and Item: ASU Article10.21, ISU Article 10.24, OSU Article 10.20
Manual Reference: Section 21.12
This provision permits an appointing authority to allow up to three days of leave with pay without charge to leave credits per contract year to an employee in a position which requires certification or a professional license (excluding a "Class D" driver's license) as a minimum qualification. Such leave would be available for the purpose of attending a program that is verified as a requirement for the employee to maintain such license or certification for the employee's position with the State.
Such leave is available at the sole discretion of the appointing authority and is subject to the prior approval of the appointing authority.
Agencies continue to have the discretion to approve use of leave credits for such absences or to deem participation in such programs to be an assignment to duty, in addition to or in lieu of granting leave under these contract provisions.
The leave is not cumulative. Unused leave cannot be liquidated in cash at any time and is canceled at the end of each year of the Agreement.
This provision is not subject to the grievance procedure.
Subject: Maternity and Child Rearing Leave
Unit and Item: ASU Article10.15, ISU Article 10.18, OSU Article 10.16
Manual Reference: Section 22.1
This provision entitles employees in these units to delay the start of child care leave where a newborn child must remain in the hospital following birth or to interrupt a period of child care leave after it has commenced for a single continuous period of hospitalization. Previously such delays or interruptions were only available at agency discretion. However, intermittent child care leave continues to be available only at agency discretion.
Specifically, where a child is required to remain in the hospital following birth, the seven-month mandatory child care leave shall, upon employee request, commence when the child is released from the hospital. If the child is required to be admitted to a hospital for treatment after child care leave has commenced, upon employee request child care leave shall be suspended during a single continuous period of such hospitalization. That period does not count toward calculation of the seven month period.
Similarly when child care leave in connection with adoption has commenced, if the child is required to be admitted to a hospital for treatment after child care leave has commenced, upon employee request child care leave shall be suspended during a single continuous period of such hospitalization. That period does not count toward calculation of the seven month period.
(The language in subsections (a) and (b) of the contract provisions differs slightly. Under State policy, child care leave for birth parents must otherwise be taken within the seven month period beginning with the date of birth. Under the State's adoptive leave policy, child care leave for adoptive parents must begin during a designated window period (anytime between placement up to the effective date of adoption) and the entitlement otherwise runs for seven months from the date the leave begins. Because of the window period, adoptive parents have greater flexibility in terms of when the seven month period begins. If an adoptive child is required to remain in the hospital following birth, the adoptive parent could simply delay the start of the adoptive leave.)
In any case where the commencement of child care leave is postponed or where such leave is suspended in accordance with this contract article, any entitlement to mandatory child care leave under this article expires one year from the date of birth of the child for birth parents and one year from the point the leave began for adoptive parents.
This provision applies to hospitalization that occurs on or after April 27, 2004, the date of ratification. Where a continuous period of hospitalization has already commenced prior to April 27, 2004, this provision applies to days that fall on or after April 27, 2004.
Other provisions of the Attendance Rules and the guidelines for administration of those rules, dated January 28, 1982 and March 11, 1982, remain unchanged.
Subject: Leave Donation Program
Unit and Item: ASU Appendix X, ISU Appendix X, OSU Appendix X
Manual Reference: Appendix H
Effective April 27, 2004, donations may be made by CSEA-represented employees to CSEA-represented employees in other agencies regardless of whether or not those employees are family members. Provisions governing donation of leave credits across agency lines by employees other than family members will sunset close of business April 1, 2007, unless the parties mutually agree to extend such provisions beyond that date.
Donations to and from employees in other negotiating units, except family members, continue to be limited to those employed in the same agency, unless similar provisions are in effect for those negotiating units.
Donations made across agency lines from non-family members will be treated in the same way as donations across agency lines for family members are currently treated. As is currently the case for donations between family members in different agencies, donations made across agency lines for non-family members will NOT be returned.
Donations made across agency lines must be used prior to donations made within the agency. If agency donations have been used prior to receipt of donations from eligible employees in other agencies, at the point that donations from those employees in other agencies are received, the use of in-house donations should be interrupted and donations from employees in other agencies used before resuming the use of donations from agency employees. In the event that donations are received from more than one employee in another agency, the credits should be used in the order received, that is all days donated by employee A should be used prior to the use of all days donated by employee B.
In the event that donations are received on behalf of employees who have been deemed ineligible for donations, the leave donation forms should be returned to the donor's personnel office with a notation that the recipient is not eligible for the Leave Donation Program and the donated days returned to the donor.
Employees who began sick leave at half-pay because donations were exhausted or because no donations were available may, upon request and at agency discretion, be permitted to interrupt sick leave at half-pay to use donated leave that became available after the sick leave at half-pay commenced. A period of sick leave at half-pay that began prior to April 27, 2004 should be interrupted for donations from outside the agency made on or after April 27, 2004.
Subject: Holidays for Seasonal Employees
Unit and Item: ASU Appendix III, ISU Appendix III, OSU Appendix III
Manual Reference: Appendix E
This Appendix was modified to provide an enhanced holiday benefit to certain returning seasonal employees not subject to the Attendance Rules or who have not been granted anticipated eligibility to accrue leave credits and observe holidays.
Specifically, seasonal employees employed to work on a 37.5 or 40-hour per week basis who work at least 25 days in the current season and who were so employed in one of the two seasonal periods (4/1 to 9/30 and 10/1 to 3/31) immediately preceding the current seasonal period are eligible to receive holiday compensation for time worked on all holidays during the current seasonal period. Such compensation is paid retroactively upon completion of five weeks of work. This benefit is first payable for work on holidays during the 10/1/04 –3/31/05 seasonal period for employees who met the prior service requirement during either the 10/1/03 to 3/31/04 or the 4/1/04 to 9/30/04 seasonal period.
As a result of this modification for purposes of holiday benefits, seasonal employees fall into one of four categories:
- Seasonal employees who are not employed to work on a 37.5 or 40-hour per week basis or who do not work at least 25 days during the season. Such employees receive only regular salary for work on a holiday and are not eligible to receive holiday compensation.
- Seasonal employees employed to work on a 37.5 or 40-hour per week basis who work at least 25 days during the season and who were not so employed during at least one of the two consecutive seasonal periods (4/1 to 9/30 and 10/1 to 3/31) immediately preceding the current seasonal period. Such employees are entitled to additional compensation at their hourly rate, up to a maximum of eight hours for time worked on each of the first three (3) days during their employment in any seasonal period (4/1 to 9/30 and 10/1 to 3/31) which are observed as holidays by the State.
- Seasonal employees employed to work on a 37.5 or 40-hour per week basis who work at least 25 days during the current season and who have been so employed during at least one of the two consecutive seasonal period (4/1 to 9/30 and 10/1 to 3/31) immediately preceding the current seasonal period. Such employees are entitled to additional compensation at their hourly rate up to a maximum of eight hours for time worked on all days during their employment in the current seasonal period which are observed as holidays by the State.
- Seasonal employees who have Attendance Rules coverage or have been granted anticipated eligibility. Such employees are treated as any other employee with Rules coverage or anticipated eligibility, except that they receive holiday compensation for holidays worked and are not permitted to elect to receive holiday leave (holiday compensatory time) for time worked on a holiday in lieu of holiday pay.
It should be noted that seasonal employees who have Attendance Rules coverage or anticipated eligibility are the only employees eligible for time off with pay on holidays or to be credited with holiday leave for holidays that fall on pass days off. For other seasonal employees, the seasonal holiday benefit is available only for time worked on covered holidays.
Subject: Leave Adjustment Program for Part-Time Annual Salaried Employees
Unit and Item: ASU Article10.11, ISU Article 10.16, OSU Article 10.15
Manual Reference: Appendix D
This program provides eligible part-time annual salaried employees who are scheduled to work additional hours beyond their payroll percentage with leave adjustment credits for that additional time worked. The program was available on a pilot basis under the 1999-2003 CSEA/State Agreements; it is no longer a pilot under the 2003-2007 Agreements.
The program has been modified to provide that the vacation adjustment for employees who earn vacation at the 20-day rate will be calculated based on the 20-day rate. Previously all vacation adjustments were calculated at the 13-day rate.
The provisions regarding the special rate for calculating vacation adjustment credits for employees who earn vacation at the 20-day rate apply to additional hours worked beginning in pay period 1 of fiscal year 2004-2005. The first crediting at this rate will occur within a 60-day period following the end of pay period 13 of fiscal year 2004-2005.
An employee who earns vacation at the 20-day rate must have worked a minimum of three and one quarter (3.25) hours of additional time above the number of hours equated to his/her payroll percentage to earn an additional one quarter (1/4) hour of vacation. Eligible employees are credited with one-quarter (1/4) hour of vacation for every three and one quarter (3.25) hours of additional time worked during the thirteen pay periods under review. For this purpose, time worked includes time charged to leave credits.
When an employee's seventh anniversary date falls during the 13 pay periods under review, the employee will be credited with vacation adjustment credits at the 13-day rate for those 13 pay periods and thereafter will be credited with vacation adjustment credits at the 20-day rate.
The Appendix includes an example of calculating the vacation adjustment at the 20-day rate. Other changes to the Appendix are strictly editorial in nature.
Subject: Medical Certification
Unit and Item: Side Letter - ASU, OSU, ISU
Manual Reference: Section 21.3
The current definition of the term, "satisfactory medical documentation," as reflected in the Attendance and Leave Appendices of these Agreements, continues to apply until such time as you are advised otherwise by GOER.
Subject: Workers' Compensation
Unit and Item: ASU Article 11, ISU Article 11, OSU Article 11
Manual Reference: Section 21.8
The CSEA agreements have been changed to provide a nine-month Workers' Compensation wage benefit, the Supplemental Wage Payment Program, which guarantees 60% of gross pay. The benefit will be effective for injuries that have an incident date on or after July 1, 2004.
Prior to the 2003-2007 agreement, CSEA-represented employees received only statutory payments directly from the State Insurance Fund. The CSEA 60 % wage guarantee will be handled and processed in the same manner as the Professional Scientific and Technical Services Unit Supplemental Payment Program.
Employees may be eligible to receive a supplemental payment from the Office of the State Comptroller while absent on Workers' Compensation if their wage replacement from the State Insurance Fund is less than 60% of their pre-disability gross wages. The pre-disability gross wages are defined as the sum of an employee's base annual salary, location pay, geographic differential, shift differential and inconvenience pay. To qualify for a supplement, a participating employee must have a degree of disability of total (100%) or marked (75%) as determined by the State Insurance Fund and must be within the first nine cumulative months (39 weeks) of disability. Once an employee is determined to be 50 % or less disabled by the State Insurance Fund (moderate or mild disability) or an employee has been absent for more than nine cumulative months (39 weeks), the employee is no longer eligible for supplemental payments except as provided under the Mandatory Alternate Duty policy in Section 11.8 (a) (6) of the Agreements. Supplemental payments will be processed in accordance with instructions issued by the Office of the State Comptroller. These payments will be made following a determination by the State Insurance Fund that the absence is compensable and after issuance of the State Insurance Fund wage replacement. Once the Office of the State Comptroller receives notice, as described in their procedures, from both the State Insurance Fund and the appointing authority that the employee is eligible for a supplement, it will be calculated and issued as indicated.
Subject: Productivity Enhancement Program
Unit and Item: ASU Article 10.20, Appendix XI; ISU Article 10.23, Appendix XI; OSU Article 10.19, Appendix XI
Manual Reference: Section 26.3
These Appendices describe the Productivity Enhancement Program (PEP) available to certain employees in the CSEA Units. This program allows eligible employees to exchange previously accrued annual leave (vacation) and/or personal leave in return for a credit to be applied toward their employee share NYSHIP premiums on a biweekly basis.
A detailed program description is contained in Policy Bulletin 2004-01 dated July 2004.
This is a pilot program that will sunset December 31, 2007 unless extended by mutual agreement of the parties.
Subject:Over40 Comp Time
Unit and Item: Side Letter – ASU, OSU, ISU
Manual Reference: Section 23.1, 23.3
The Over40 Comp Time Pilot Program is a three-year pilot program that allows certain employees the option to earn compensatory time at the time and one-half rate (Over40 Comp Time) in lieu of overtime pay for hours worked in excess of 40 in a workweek. The pilot program expires on April 1, 2007, unless both the State and CSEA agree to extend it.
In order to be eligible to enroll in the pilot program, employees must be employed in a bargaining unit represented by CSEA and be employed in an overtime eligible position allocated to salary grades 22 and below. Employees are not required to have Attendance Rules coverage to be entitled to enroll.
The memoranda dated June 7 and June 30, 2004 issued by the Governors Office of Employee Relations transmitted the Over40 Comp Time Pilot Program Description and enrollment form for distribution to interested employees. As described in that material, the enrollment period for the first year of the program is July 1, 2004 to July 15, 2004. Employees who elect to participate will now be eligible to receive Over40 Comp Time for overtime worked for the period of July 16, 2004 to March 23, 2005 (for employees on the Administration payroll) or March 30, 2005 (for employees on the Institution payroll). In the second year of the pilot program, employees who enroll will be eligible to receive Over40 Comp Time beginning March 24, 2005 (for employees on the Administration Payroll) or March 31, 2005 (for employees on the Institution payroll).
Once employees enroll, they must participate for the entire year of the pilot in which they enrolled. Employees are not permitted to withdraw during the period for which they enrolled. However, they are not required to enroll in subsequent years of the pilot.
Eligible employees will earn Over40 Comp Time at the time and one-half rate for all overtime hours worked in excess of 40 hours in a workweek until they reach the 120 hour maximum.
Over40 Comp Time earned at the time and one-half rate must be recorded in a separate column on the employee's time records. The Over40 Comp Time must be segregated from the overtime compensatory time earned for hours worked between 37.5 and 40 in a workweek by overtime eligible employees in 37.5 hour workweek positions. Employees who reach the 120-hour maximum for Over40 Comp Time are prohibited from earning any additional Over40 Comp Time until that balance is reduced below the 120 hour maximum. Employees who reach the 120 hour maximum must be paid at the overtime rate for any additional overtime worked beyond 40 hours in a workweek until their balance is reduced below 120 hours.
If an employee was previously allowed to earn compensatory time at the time and a half rate for hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek under an agency labor management agreement or as an M/C employee (FLSA overtime compensatory time), and that employee is now in the CSEA unit in the same agency and eligible to participate in the Over40 Comp Time Program, the employee can enroll in the CSEA program even if his/her current balance of FLSA overtime compensatory time exceeds the 120 hour CSEA maximum. The employee keeps the existing balance of FLSA overtime compensatory time. However, since existing balances of FLSA overtime compensatory time count toward the 120-hour Over40 Comp Time maximum, the employee cannot earn any Over40 Comp Time under the CSEA program until the FLSA overtime compensatory time balance drops below the 120-hour maximum. Any overtime worked until the balance is reduced below 120 must be compensated in cash. If the balance drops below 120 hours, the employee can then earn up to the 120 hour maximum but must receive overtime pay for any further overtime worked.
If an employee in a CSEA unit who participated in the Over40 Comp Time program, moves to an M/C position in the same agency, the employee retains existing Over40 Comp Time and may be eligible to earn FLSA comp time in the new unit. The existing balance transferred from the CSEA position counts toward the 240 maximum of FLSA overtime compensatory time in the new unit. In other words if the employee had 120 hours when he/she leaves the CSEA position, the employee can earn another 120 hours in the M/C position until he/she reaches the 240 FLSA overtime compensatory time maximum.
If an employee enrolled in the Over40 Comp Time program is recalled outside his/her basic workweek and works less than a half day, the employee is entitled to 4 hours of overtime recall multiplied by time and one half, which gives the employee 6 hours of Over40 Comp Time on the time card.
When multiplying the amount of overtime worked in a workweek by time and one half to calculate Over40 Comp Time to be credited, the result may be less than an even quarter hour. For example, .25 hour of overtime worked x 1.5 = .375. In such cases, agencies should credit .25 hour and retain the .125 remainder until the amount of retained credit equals .25 hour. In this example, if the employee works .25 hour of overtime in the following workweek, the employee is entitled to be credited with .50 hour of Over40 Comp Time (.375 in the current workweek and the .125 remainder from the previous workweek).
Over40 Comp Time may be used in quarter hour units, or smaller units if a local labor/management agreement on units of use of leave credits so provides. Use of Over40 Comp Time is subject to prior approval in accordance with agency procedures.
Use of Over40 Comp Time is subject to the same rules for use as the comp time earned for hours between 37.5 and 40. For example, all leave credits must be exhausted before granting sick leave at half-pay, including Over40 Comp Time. Unlike overtime compensatory time earned by employees in 37.5-hour workweek positions for hours worked between 37.5 and 40 in a workweek, Over40 Comp Time has no expiration date. Employees retain their balance of Over40 Comp Time even if they no longer participate in the program.
Whenever movement takes place between classified service positions in the same agency or within the classified service between facilities or institutions within the same agency (for example SUNY, DOCS, Health, OMH, OMRDD), credits are transferred. This is true even if the employee's bargaining unit changes within the same agency.
An employee receives cash compensation for Over40 Comp Time whenever the employee:
- Separates for any reason from State service;
- Moves from the classified service to the unclassified service (including the State University system);
- Moves to a position subject to Attendance Rules for Institution Teachers;
- Moves to an agency or entity subject to a reciprocal agreement; or
- Moves to a position in the classified service in another agency.
Employees who are on leave from a position subject to the Attendance Rules, including military leave, are not eligible for a lump sum payment until the leave ends.
Cash payment for Over40 Comp Time is paid at the straight time rate of pay
at time of separation, but in no event shall be less than FLSA requirements.
Accordingly, cash payment may not be less than the minimum wage. Additionally,
cash payments may not be less than the rate of basic pay at the time it was


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To me this is just fantastic value. For R85 i get to play some of the latest indie games that would have cost me way more if purchased separately on other platforms.
Started Tangle Tower which i'm really enjoying - kind if Layton-esque puzzle-deduction game. Jenny le Clue and Grindstone are next.

subset: commoncrawl


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Weekly column sharing genealogy-related things I've found.
New-to-Me Blogs
- Moments in Time, A Genealogy Blog, Diana Quinn
- Denise Digs Roots, Denise Hibsch Richmond
- Madden Moments, Cath Madden Trindle
- Trindle Travels Thru Time, Cath Madden Trindle
- Digging Up the Dirt on My Dead People, April
Online Articles
- Betty's Tips for Beginning Genealogists, Betty's Boneyard Genealogy Blog
- Important Changes to Historypin Terms & Conditions, Historypin Blog
- Five Reasons to Attend a Genealogical Institute, The Turning of Generations
- Simplifying You Online Genealogy Life, The We Tree Genealogy Blog
- Tombstone Tuesday, Clues from a Cemetery Plot Card, Nutfield, Genealogy
- A Little Bit of Luck Mixed with Lots of Hard Work, No Hoof Left Behind
- Pinterest: Pinning Your History, Your Story Coach [This is a really neat idea that I may just have to implement!]
- Confession of an Online Genealogist, West In New England
Website & Resources
- The United Church of Canada Archives – Description of holdings, research guides, and virtual exhibits. [Thanks, Gena!]
Upcoming FREE Webinars
|Date / Time
|Webinar / Presenter / Host
8 PM Central
|The Research Calendar: A Resource You Cannot Live Without
Luana Darby
Illinois State Genealogical Society
1 PM Central
|Get What You Came For: New Search Options Let You Target Obituaries, Photos, Passenger Lists, Births, Marriages, and More
Tom Kemp
Legacy Family Tree
1 PM Central
|Next Exit: Your New Jersey Ancestors
Thomas MacEntee
Legacy Family Tree
7 PM Central
|Research at the Atlanta History Center
Sue VerHeof
Georgia Genealogical Society
7 PM Central
|The Area Research Network
Josh Ranger
Wisconsin State Genealogical Society
8 PM Central
|Interest in Pinterest: Pinning Your Family History
Valerie Elkins
Southern California Genealogical Society
8 PM Central
|Finding Your Family Stories
Valerie Elkins
Utah Genealogical Association
1 PM Central
|How Knowing the Law Makes Us Better Genealogists
Judy G. Russell
Legacy Family Tree


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So when I saw these shoes on Carrie's blog wishwishwish I fell in love right away. I'm on a totally strict budget though which means very little spending for me and these were really way out of my budget. Clearly I am ridiculously spoiled because they arrived on my doorstep this morning bought for me by my love. I feel so spoiled! They are ridiculously beautiful and the leather smells amazing.
Cardigan - A-wear
Top - Primark
Skirt - Topshop
Tights - Accessorize
Shoes - Topshop
Bag - Topshop
Necklace - Exhibit
It's really windy today, not exactly skirt weather unfortunately! Do you like the little owl? I went into Exhibit, a shop I would never usually go into, with my Sister and found it for just £3.
My sister usually takes my outfit photos for me but she doesn't get home from school until it is almost dark now, and I have lost the attatchment for my tripod so please excuse the photos if they are a bit scruffy.
If you haven't already please enter my giveaway! I will draw the winners one week from today, Tuesday 26th October.


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Managed discretionary account operator Managed Accounts Holdings has announced it has submitted a proposal to merge with platform and administration provider Linear Financial Holdings.
In a statement, the group said the transaction would involve acquiring 100 per cent of the shares of Linear and would be "transformative" for both groups, creating more scale and an extended suite of products and services for the independent adviser market.
"The proposal has the unanimous support of the Linear board and is being recommended by the Linear board to Linear shareholders," the group said.
The purchase would see the merged entity hold $11 billion in funds under management with a combined revenue of approximately $14.7 million.
"Linear's and Managed Accounts' products and services are highly complementary, creating the potential for the merged entity to enhance its product and service delivery to existing clients and grow revenue in the stockbroking and institutional markets," Managed Accounts said.
The company added that its recent investment in additional sales and distribution resources meant that the merged entity would be well positioned to attract new clients.
Managed Accounts executive chairman Don Sharp said the purchase was a complementary one given that Linear was a leading provider of platform solutions in the Australian market.
"We believe bringing together these two businesses will provide existing and future clients with enhanced platform and administration services," he said.
Linear managing director Chris Hipkin added that the merger provided an attractive proposition to the clients of both businesses.
Managed Accounts to merge with Linear
By Sarah Kendell
Managed discretionary account operator Managed Accounts Holdings has announced it has submitted a proposal to merge with platform and administration provider Linear Financial Holdings.
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Luxetips! 12 Days of Luxetips Before Christmas Best of 2013 Giveaways: Win a Stella and Dot Snakeskin Tote!
Hello Divas! Sometimes you have to throw caution to the wind and just take a chance. Today we are kicking off our daily giveaways from our Best of 2013 list. I am so excited and I hope you Divas are ready to win some fabulous items! First up, we are…4 Comments + Read More


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Dear Friends and Divers!
In May 2012, the 10th year of our operation has commenced, since the founding of our loved company Pro Dive Mexico! We are proud and happy that we are now in the 10th year of providing safe, fun and quality scuba diving to our clients! Now we are keen on making it a full 100 years!
Since our small beginnings in May 2003, today Pro Dive Mexico is regarded as one of the premier PADI Career Development Centers in the Americas, and we are running 6 different 5 Star Dive Centers in the Mayan Riviera & Cozumel, with the help of our multilingual staff from all over the world.
Punctually for this anniversary, we are stepping up the ladder! We appointed ANGEL NAVARRO MOYA as the new leader of our GOPRO ACADEMY division. Angel brings a wealth of experience to us, being one of the most experienced Platinum Course Director in the industry. He has been awarded the coveted PLATINUM RATING by PADI for 5 consecutive years, which is simply exceptional in this industry!
Because we are delighted to celebrate both our 10th year milestone, and Angel's positioning at our GoPro Academy, we are happy to pronounce our mindboggling CELEBRATION OFFERS to pass something back to our clients:
1) 1% per Year = 10% Discount on all GoPro/TEC!
Applicable for any course from Divemaster to MSDT Prep and TEC courses, we provide an extraordinary discount of 10% on the tuitions, we even extend this offer over full GoPro Packages, in which case the 10% will also apply over the costs of PADI learning materials!
*applies to bookings with initial deposit received by 31st August 2012
2) FREE IAHD Instuctor Course!
We provide additionally a FREE IAHD (International Association of Handicapped Instructors) Instructor Course at the of value 499 USD, to any IDC candidate! The 3 day course will be conducted after our IDC/MSDT prep programs, and the only cost that needs to be covered is the application fee of aprox. 125 USD, to gain active status with IAHD.
*applies to bookings with initial eposit received by 31st August 2012
3) FREE Instructor internship!
For any reserved MSDT prep program, in the future we will provide the option to enjoy a FREE instructor internship of 3 weeks after graduation in our busy dive centers. This will add valuable real life experience to any "fresh" scuba instructor, providing a head start opportunity to start working in the industry!
4) IE Pass Guarantee!
It is highly unlikely, but appreciating that people like to have peace of mind, in the unlikely event that the candidate does not pass the IE, we will pay 100% of all re-exam fees!
Besides all the above new exciting promos, of course all former and current specials stay in place as usual, such as:
1) FREE Emergency Oxygen Provider Instructor Speciality with every IDC.
2) FREE IDC prep course with signup for MSDT prep.
3) FREE Scubapro Technician clinic with every MSDT prep .
4) FREE repeat IDC, if IE failed, or IE not taken due CD's recommendation
5) FREE Cenotes Dive as part of every IDC
6) FREE TEK diving intro as part of every IDC
To conclude we would like to mention that Angel is fluent in English, Spanish, Catalan and French, and together with his German and Italian speaking IDC staff instructors we are now able to offer GoPro and IDC training in all these languages.
We look forward having you with us soon, to become a great PADI Pro with us in amazing Mexico!
Your Pro Dive Mexico Team.


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Welcome to my stamping blog! I am a Stampin' Up! demonstrator and I hope you enjoy the projects I share with you here. If you have any questions on any of the projects shown feel free to send me an email and I'll be happy to help you. I'd love to have you follow me too!
April 6, 2010
The bird was punched using pretty in pink card stock and the wing is SU pattern paper. I used the same pattern paper on my card. I punched out three branches using certainly celery card stock and I glued them all together.
The upper half of my white background was embossed using my Birds and Swirls embossing folder. My certainly celery layer was punched using my scallop trim border punch.
So the only stamping on my card is my sentiment and I drew in a small dot for the eye on the birdie. Great cas challenge, it really got me thinking yesterday!
Have a great day and be sure to check back tomorrow. I'll be posting a technique tutorial using a digi image from Bugaboo stamps!
Stamps: It's Your Birthday
Card Stock: White, Certainly Celery, Rose Romance, SU pattern paper
Supplies: Ribbon, 2 Step Bird Punch, Cuttlebug, Birds & Swirls Embossing Folder, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Stamp-a-ma-jig, SU Marker- for the bird's eye, 2 Way Glue Pen- for the branch w/ leaves
Technique: Dry Embossing
6 comments:
- Karen Howard said...
Wow, gorgeous card! Love the bird punch and the birds in the embossed background! The pinks are very sweet and perfect for spring!
- Tuesday, April 06, 2010
- jimlynn said...
Pretty card, Patty! Love your little pink bird. But I really, really, like how you used the embossing folder - super.
- Tuesday, April 06, 2010
- Carrie said...
Beautiful Patty, I love the embossing folder you used with this punch.
- Wednesday, April 07, 2010
- Shirl said...
Very sweet and pretty card! Love how the dry embossing and bird punch match each other so well! :)
- Wednesday, April 07, 2010
- Jan Hunnicutt said...
Wow, your card is gorgeous! Love the clean design and the colors are so soft and pretty.
- Wednesday, April 07, 2010
- Dora said...
- Wednesday, April 07, 2010


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This brief guide is intended to provide basic information about San Diego-area libraries that are part of the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP). While there is likely a degree of overlap from one library's collection to another, each library has access to some print and electronic resources that the others don't. If you are looking for a specific publication from the federal government and do not find it at your "home" institution, it is very possible that one of the other libraries listed may have it.
San Diego Public Library - Central Library
San Diego State University - The Library and Information Access
Cal State San Marcos - Kellogg Library
University of San Diego - Pardee Legal Research Center


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A free-to-the-public Fan Fest will take place on Sept. 1 from 3-5 p.m. prior to the Ashland University football team's 2016 season- and home opener against Mercyhurst at 6 p.m.
Fan Fest will be on a closed-off section of Broad Street in front of the Robert Troop Center and Jack Miller Stadium/Martinelli Field. Included among the festivities – live music performed by local musician Jeff Ritz, a free ticket giveaway and live broadcast by WRDL-FM 88.9, a cornhole setup in the front lawn of the Troop Center, a mini-football giveaway courtesy of Hedstrom to the first 100 kids, a team poster giveaway while supplies last, contests, a bounce house and more.
Fans of all ages are welcome.
Tickets for the Eagles-Lakers football game will be regular price. Single-game tickets for all AU home football games in 2016 will be available to the public starting on Monday (Aug. 15).


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Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner has signed new legislation into law this week that will expand fundraising opportunities for startups from the prairie state. The law, which will take effect January 1, 2016, will allow crowdfunding sites to facilitate equity-backed investments from anyone, including investors with a net worth under one million dollars and an annual salary under $200,000 per year, a longstanding legal threshold that prevented non-wealthy citizens from investing in startups. The new law was passed unanimously by a state senate eager to shed its anti-business reputation, and was signed by the governor on Wednesday.
Equity-backed crowdfunding has the potential to flood emerging markets with fresh investment capital because it significantly increases the number of of potential investors with capital to contribute. By legal definition, the SEC defines an accredited investor as a person with a net worth greater than one million dollars. Until recently, only accredited investors were eligible to make direct equity-backed investments in startups. For years, startups worked around this legality through non-equity-backed crowdfunding sites like Kickstarter or Indiegogo, where consumers pledged money toward a startup's investment goal to help it launch, and were typically promised merchandise later on when the startup launched. A prime example of this is the Pebble smartwatch, which raised over $20 million in non-equity backed pledges from 78,000 investors.
In 2012, Congress passed the JOBS Act which included provisions that removed investment limitations on non-accredited investors. Those provisions were put on hold indefinitely until the SEC could draft new regulations to control equity-backed investments and ensure that investors were adequately protected. Despite being due by January 1, 2013 the SEC took until May 2015 before publishing its updated rules, effective June 19. The new rules state that non-accredited investors are free to invest in startups raising less than $50 million in their funding round.
The new rules also override some state-level rules that attempt to uphold restrictions on non-accredited investors,but do not remove requirements that startups comply with other state-level legal obligations. Known as "blue sky laws," all 50 states have some version of legal regulation over small business fundraising and now with federal restrictions essentially neutralized, states with business-friendly blue sky laws are in a great position to attract startups eager to cash in on the potential that crowdfunding-based investment rounds offer.
To this end, Illinois has essentially rewritten its blue sky laws to explicitly permit online crowdfunding platforms to operate within its state borders. Illinois is setting a four million dollar cap on investment rounds facilitated through local crowdfunding sites, far less than the $50 million cap set by the SEC, but higher than the two million dollar cap recently established by other business-friendly blue sky states.
With equity-backed crowdsource platforms rapidly approaching, the time has never been better for entrepreneurs working in emerging markets.
Enjoy HIStalk Connect? Sign up for update alerts, or follow us at @HIStalkConnect.


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Your drinks, your way.
We have great pleasure in introducing to you The Little Bar Cart.
Our custom designed and built Cart is a mobile bar service that is currently operating in Perth and Melbourne in Australia, but expanding soon across the country to other regions and also around the world.
The Little Bar Cart can be utilised in almost any location, indoors and outdoors.
We offer a unique, polished and professional service that will give your special day that 'WOW' factor.
We specialise in celebrations, and for hundreds of years, Champagne has been an essential part of any event or celebration and The Little Bar Cart brings this long lasting and popular tradition to you with elegance, class and style.
Although we love Champagne, it's not all we do! We cater to any wedding, engagement or bridal shower providing a service which includes beer, wine, spirits, cocktails and soft drink to suit your ideas and requirements.
Get in touch today.
Wedding Brochure
Easy Weddings Special Offer
Discount on our range of wedding products and services. Simply fill out the contact form or phone us, and mention "Easy Weddings".
Get the best deals for your wedding with Easy Weddings only discounts and special offers.
Simply let us know which Easy Weddings' suppliers you've booked. Once verified, you'll get entries into the draw for your chance to win!
* Competition Excludes ACT
Your time is important. Get the information you need quickly. No fuss. No stress.


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Do you have a need for speed? Then check out the Bonneville Speedway at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Wendover, Utah. This area is used as a venue for numerous land speed records. Cars start out slowly but here is plenty of room for cars to reach their full speed potential.
Ready your car and drive to Bonneville Salt Flats Speedway, a U.S. National Register of Historic Places, where you can fulfill your need for a rushing and exhilarating speed racing. The area is one of the best places for motor sports where you can max out your gear and drive as fast as you can safely and not furiously. It is also a venue recorded to have numerous land speed records. With an area of 36,650 acres, the track layouts would be pretty much uncrowded for speed racers to fully enjoy Bonneville Salt Flats Speedway. Also, learn about the historical place and have fun while doing it.
Driving is not only the fun thing to do here at Bonneville Salt Flats Speedway but you'll also have a look at majestic mountain views, peer at a beautiful landscape and scuba diving at a nearby spot. Make sure you bring a camera with you to capture perfect moments.
Contact us now for a thrilling and exhilarating ride here at Bonneville Salt Flats Speedway!


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Schedule and personalize a private campus visit
Private visits are typically hosted Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:00 am until 4 pm. Click here for our campus map.
The Office of Admissions is pleased to host students and their families on their own private and personalized campus visit. Visit our newly created Welcome Center which includes refreshments, comfortable seating, and a personalized viewing area that provides all visitors a quick preview of what our campus can offer. Meet up with an Admissions Counselor before your tour in the Welcome Center to apply and answer any questions you may have before the tour begins.
During the visit, our guests have the opportunities to:
- take a private tour of our beautiful mountaintop campus
- meet with faculty members and sit in on a class
- meet with Financial Aid and discuss any questions you may have about your financial aid package
- enjoy a complimentary meal in our dining facilities
- receive a unique gift exclusively designed for your incoming class
Become a Battler Day
Join our AB admissions team for an open house! Throughout the day, you'll have the opportunity to:
- Tour our campus;
- Meet current students and faculty;
- Learn about academic programs and extracurricular activities;
- Gain information on the admissions process and financial aid; and
- See what makes us unique!
November 9th
November 11th
January 18th
February 1st
February 17th
Wind: 8mph N
Humidity: 80%
Pressure: 30.28"Hg
UV index: 0


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The Military Family Financial Aid Fund (MFFA) is a state taxpayer-funded program for Wisconsin service members and their eligible dependents experiencing an unexpected financial hardship. The Family Assistance Team will guide applicants through the MFFA process and assist them with submitting the application to the approving Committee.
Do you want to know more about the MFFA program?
Check out the Commanders and Applicants Policy in the Forms Library below for details on the program. The application, financial worksheets, and application checklist are also provided.
Are you ready to submit an application? (Please note our phone number has changed.)
We are here to help! Contact the Family Assistance Team at 1-800-292-9464, option 1.
Forms and Resources Library
MFFA Policy – Commanders and Applicants
MFFA Application DMA Form 1103
MFFA Applicant Checklist (NEW)


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Friday, July 30, 2010
QE 2.0 and the Insta-Refi
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Vision {Guest Post}
Ergo the system is destined for collapse for the Fed will have to print money to keep the checks coming by 2042 and by some estimates as shown in the graph above even less.
Working hard for a company is not the norm any more. I worked for 20 years for my first company then 3.5 years before the next on closed and 3.5 before the next one drove all the good people out. I was saving all this time and as a result I am not and will never be homeless. I have no mortgage, no car payment and no installment debt as all. I pay off my credit card in full every month.
Well the problem is they didn't learn about money. They didn't know where it came from or who controlled it. To them investing was leaving it all up to the company pension manager (if they were lucky enough to have one) or dumping money in a mutual funds in a 401k plan that they did not understand. So as everyone was tapping their home equity as if an ATM machine was attached to their home they never imagined the frightful reality that would soon hit them like a 2x4 to the head.
Soon they found that they had lost nearly half of their 401k money, the company they worked for was sold and gutted and the pensions they so took for granted were reduced or paid out in a lump sum. Then the IRS would take its 40% for early withdrawal and all of a sudden the "Golden Years" were not as attainable.
The whole mess went worldwide so Americans weren't the only sheep that were sheered.
Now let's get to investing. I started investing in precious metals in 2008 and have since done well. I cut my teeth on investing at the wrong time January 2009. I was gun-shy from the early losses as I really didn't understand how to invest. I wasted hundreds in brokerage fees getting in and out of positions based on emotion. Then when the market changed direction in March, I got it all back. I bought a variety of companies, but I was focused on the mining industry. I learned how to do rudimentary charting and mostly did quick trades taking profits.
What have I learned from all this? That the markets are fickle and many manipulations go on behind the scenes and this I cannot control. When you decide to invest have a plan. One to get in and one to get out. Patience is a virtue, but don't marry your investment. Keep an eye on the tape and get when the getting is good. Don't worry about the high frequency traders with their fancy algorithms that make up most of the market. You don't even come on their radar. They are looking to take down millions and are mostly competing against each other.
Don't worry about the government officials as they are bought and paid for. The President is nothing more than a figurehead and has very little real power. He is kept in a cocoon and fed numbers that I am sure he does not understand any more than the previous one did. So I am not angry at the politicians. I just don't see them as the real threat.
The real power is the To Big To Fail Banks. JP Morgan is at the top of the food chain. There are no sovereign countries, there are just peoples who are indebted to the banking cartels.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Spain & the EURibor
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Update 7/15
Update: The Euro opened at $1.2825, which means my loss is $1,375. Ouch !
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Kowalski's Perfect World
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Monthly Overall Economy Report
Railroad Traffic: "Carloads in June 2010 were up 15.8% from June 2009 but down 11.8% from June 2008. Weekly average of 278,312 was down from last month (288,419) and from April (294,758)" This is not the direction they want this to be going. I include this because it's a non-government statistic (and thus more reliable) and is a pretty good indicator of how the real economy is doing. The weekly average was at about 325,000 in Sept 2008 and 343,000 in July 2006, but up from a Lehman-era low in May 2009 of 248,000.
Credit Markets: "The latest consumer credit number continues the decline we have seen in recent months, plunging from $2424.4 billion in April to $2415.3 billion in May, a $9.1 billion decline, or 4.5% annualized, on consensus of $2.3 billion. Yet the biggest stunner was the April revision which was whacked from +$1 billion to a revised -$14.9 billion! In other words, there has been a $24 billion decline in consumer credit in the past two months. The biggest hit was, as usual, experienced by revolving credit accounts, which fell by a 10.5 annualized rate to $830.8 billion" http://www.zerohedge.com/article/consumer-credit-plunges-may-april-revised-much-lower-government-only-marginal-lender-two-mon Then we come to the M3 "money supply" numbers.. and here we must say that the Gov't stopped printing these numbers a few years ago, but several sites use the same forumlas to keep up the numbers. The Gov't publishes what's known as the M2 money supply numbers, which tell a completely different story. The M3 numbers are showing deflation, which is to say a slow but sure decline in the money supply: "On 7/2 money supply was $13.353 tillion. On 6/25 money supply was $13.546 trillion. On 6/18 money supply was $13.660 trillion" While these are not drastic falls in money supply, it's quite obviously going in the wrong direction: http://nowandfutures.com/key_stats.html The M2 numbers are as follows: "May: $8.580 trillion. April: $8.498 trillion. March: $8.526 trillion. Feb: $8.550 trillion" June's numbers have yet to come out, but overall the M2 numbers have been around $8.4 and $8.6 trillion pretty consistently since May 2009: http://www.federalreserve.gov/releases/h6/current/
Retail Sales: "The US Census Bureau today announced advanced estimates of US food and retail sales for May were $362.5 billion, down 1.2% from the previous month, but 6.9% higher than May of 2009" Again going in the wrong direction. June's numbers will come out in a few days. Remember that retail sales represent about 2/3rds of the US economy, and so this is a vital statistic. Next time I do this monthly report I'll wait until this number comes out because of it's importance. http://www.census.gov/retail/marts/www/marts_current.pdf
Overall: We're doing better than in early 2009 on nearly all counts, but not nearly as well as 2008. These last reports seem to indicate that deflation is gaining momentum and the economic recovery has stalled. June's retail report will be of vital importance; my guess is that it will be down from May's numbers.
Update 8am: Putting in an order to "sell" one Euro at $1.2650. It seems that the rally has stalled, and I'm still of the belief that parity with the USD is only a matter of time.
Update 6pm: "Sold" one Euro at $1.2650. This is added to the two copper positions I maintain.. "short" one contract from $3.07 and "short" one more from $3.02.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Dear President Obama
Sunday, July 4, 2010
European Bank Catastrophe
On to today's subject.. the catastrophic state of European banks. Throughout most of the 20th Century, US banks were leveraged at 10-1 (that is, ten dollars in loans for every dollar in the vault). Therefore, if one tenth of the bank's loans went belly up, the bank is toast. In the 1980s, with the benign neglect of Alan Greedspan, banks leveraged themselves ever upward.. resulting in a leverage ratio at some big banks at 25-1.. and this ratio did not include the credit default swaps they had written. This led to mortgages and credit cards being handed out to anyone with a pulse.. with predictiable results. Sept 2008 nearly crashed the US banking system, thanks to this wreckless lending.
The European banks, not to be outdone by their Yankee cousins across the pond, leveraged themselves up even further.. in some cases sixty and seventy to one, nevermind credit default swaps. Worse, much of these loans ($1.7 trillion) were to Eastern European countries, who's political and economic stability were shaky. Worst of all, were also given to loaning huge sums of money to other EU banks, thus ensuring that should one go down, it would very likely take down others with them because of these loans as well as CDS's. For example, America's largest bank, Citibank, has roughly $2.2 trillion in assets. Britain, one sixth the size of the US, has three banks larger than this; France has two.
As the EU countries slowly begin to implode.. Greece is but the first of many.. the security of the banking system comes increasingly into question. Perhipery nations, to whom EU banks have loaned hundreds of billions, are also very shaky.. Rumania and Hungary in the last few weeks look pretty grim. Today, Ambrose's article is about Spain and their $1.1 trillion of external debt and how they are likely to need the EU/IMF bailout by summer's end. Already EU banks have essentially stopped loaning to each other, a sign of fear.. and rightly so. Only the ECB loans to EU banks.. this is a very bad sign.
Over a long enough period of time, this ends in one of two ways.. both of which lead to grinding Depressions on the Olde Continent. The first is hyperinflation in order to save the banks. The second is complete and utter collapse of the financial system and repudiation of debt. Anybody buying the official line "the economy continues to recover" are utter fools. This is coming.. my guess is that they'll hold it together this year, but 2011 is my guess for the financial apocalypse.
Here's an excellent graph on this: http://www.zerohedge.com/sites/default/files/images/user5/imageroot/trichet/World%27s%20top%2050%20banks.jpg


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What is Flexi Saving Scheme?
The Flexi Saving Schemes is brought by ABIRAAME POPULAR JEWELLERS, under the Flexi Saving Scheme, you can buy more value than what you pay-because Flexi Saving Scheme will add another month as a Bonus.
What is the benefit available on the Flexi Saving Scheme?
Under this Flexi Saving Scheme, you need to invest a fixed amount for 12 th month to Reap the BONUS of an extra months. (wihout any delays )
Can I change my Flexi Scheme amount after Enrollment?
Once the 1st installment is paid, you cannot change the Flexi Scheme amount at any part of time.
What is the duration of the Flexi Scheme?
The Flexi Scheme is an ANNUAL PLAN and you have to pay 12 installments without any delay payments to qualify for the BONUS installment amount.
What is the BENEFITS of the BONUS Flexi Scheme?
For the BONUS Flexi Scheme you are entitled for additional 1 MONTH'S INSTALLMENT amount (whatever the amount you pay every month) . It is more suitable for who want to purchase Diamond / Precious stone Jewelleries.
When can I make purchase with the Flexi Schemes?
You can only REDEEM the Flexi Scheme after the completion of the TENURE provided you have paid your monthly installments on or before the due date every month. (NOTE: After 30 days from the date of the last Installment).
Can the Flexi Scheme to be paid FULL in advances?
The Flexi Scheme can only be carry UPFRONT of 2 months.
Can I get refund for CASH?
No CASH refund will be allowed under any circumstances for the Flexi Schemes,if you closure before the completion Of 12 months.You are eligible to buy jewellerys to the extent of the amount paid by you at the prevailing rate on the date of purchase.
What is the payment mode?
You can either pay by CASH or NETS.
What if I want to transfer or nominate my Flexi Schemes to other peoples?
Yes, you can do the transfer or nominate along with the person at our outlet.
What if I delayed my payment?
If the payment is delayed by one month, the maturity date will be postponed By one month accordingly. ( Ex: Joining Date 01/06/2016– Date of Redemption 01/06/2017. If 1 month delayed it will be postponed to 01/07/2017 )
How long is the validity for the Flexi Schemes from the date of the last payment finish?
The Flexi Schemes is valid only for 120 days from the date of the last payment.
Is there any option that I can views how many payment that I have made?
Yes, you can view your payment details by Login into www.apjflexisavings.com.
Can I have more than one subscription?
Yes, you can have more than 1 subscription as each subscription came along a passbook.
Is It a Investment Scheme
We are not a bank, Investment Firm or any other financial institution. We offer this flexi Scheme, to encourage the customer to save and purchase high-value gold jewellery.


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Jalapenos seem to vary in spiciness from one pepper to the next so adjust the number you use (and whether you keep the seeds) to your own heat preferences.
The addition of liquid smoke and the breadcrumb topping make the flavor and texture more realistic to fried jalapeno poppers. It will seem like a lot of topping when you mix it up, but put it all on – it really helps with the flavor.
Continue reading


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Forgotten your login details?
Oral health and overall general health have been proven to be closely linked. As a result, the ADA believes that dentistry is an essential health service the benefit of which should be available to all people living in Australia.
Water fluoridation remains the most cost-effective and impartial way to keep peoples' teeth healthy, in conjunction with brushing twice a day, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet, and regular dentist visits.
Due to the destructive effects of sugars and acidic foods on teeth, the ADA supports public health campaigns that promote healthy dietary behaviour to at risk age groups particularly children.
Daily oral hygiene is crucial to the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums and should be a central component of public awareness campaigns conducted by government and industry groups.
The Australian dental workforce should be encouraged to educate the public on the adverse health implications of smoking, which is the leading preventable cause of illness and death in Australia.
Injury to the teeth and gums, which is often irreversible and difficult to repair, can be prevented by the wearing of customised mouthguards and the implementation of appropriate health and safety requirements in the workplace.
Overseas dental treatment should be discouraged for a variety of reasons including: Practitioner qualifications may not be equivalent, infection control may be unknown and no recourse is available for treating adverse treatment outcomes. Promoters of these treatment travel schemes should indemnify the consumer.
Where possible, travellers should not depart Australia with pre-existing dental problems, should have sufficient travel insurance to cover emergency treatment and obtain records of any treatment done overseas.
Teeth Whitening agents may be potentially hazardous to the patient. Only registered dental practitioners should use agents with high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide with consumers protected from unregistered and unprotected providers by health authorities.
Piercings in and around the mouth are invasive procedures which have significant oral health implications. The ADA believes increased regulation is required to protect consumers who choose to have these procedures.
The primary objectives of the Australian Dental Association (ABN 95 174 118 424) are to encourage the improvement of the oral and general health of the public, promote the ethics, art and science of dentistry and support members to provide safe,
high quality professional oral care.
Copyright ADA 2019
Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy


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It has been quite a while since I have posted. The whole growing season has passed.
I did not plant anything major this year. I did purchase a "skyline" honeylocust, climbing hydrangea, Fargesia nitida, 2 bush cherries Carmine Jewel and Juliette. I also planted and am experimenting with seedling Gymnocladus diocious (kentucky coffee tree) and Carya Ovata (shagbark hickory)
Skyline Honeylocust – Aug 2014
My first successful graft. Root stock is bosc seedling and the scion is Flemish Beauty.
I also have no real deaths to talk about either. Nothing had any major die back. I did have a "peace" rose survive without any mulch, but we had 4 feet of snow. Same with a Fig and once again my small seedling Magnolia tripitala.
There is no real production yet either. My Valiant grapes produced quite well though. Nothing on the pears or any other fruit trees either.


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Erik Erhardt
Assistant Professor, Statistics
(505) 480-4462
Faculty member's webpage
Areas of Expertise
- Erik Erhardt is an assistant professor of statistics in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics
- Director of the statistics consulting clinic.
- Co-director of the Biostatistics and NeuroInformatics (BNI) Core for the second phase of the Center for Biomedical Research Excellence (COBRE) in brain function and mental illness at the Mind Research Network.
- Research interests include Bayesian and frequentist statistical methods for stable isotope sourcing and brain imaging.
- A Howard Hughes Medical Institute Interfaces Scholar collaborating in interdisciplinary research and consulting.
Additional areas of interest
Statistics, probability, brain imaging and ecology
If you would like to contact this expert for a story, please call Steve Carr at (505) 277.1821 (office), (505) 702.7720 (cell) or University Communication and Marketing (UCAM) at (505) 277.5813.


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Smart contracts on Credits platform
Nowadays a number of blockchain platforms is working on easy-to-use and functional smart contracts that play important role in blockchain technology development and its adoption.
Our developers have successfully implemented a range of innovative improvements in existing smart contracts.Technically unique smart contracts will become a solid foundation of Credits platform and will help start the implementation and distribution of decentralized applications based on the Credits blockchain in various application spheres.
Let's take a closer look at what Credits smart contracts are in details and explore the basic definitions and differences between smart contracts and traditional ones.
Definition and benefits of smart contracts
Smart contract is a computer program designed to conclude and maintain contracts (or agreements) in digital form using the blockchain technology. A smart contract contains all required contract terms, and a set of actions (for ex. another smart contract execution or assets transfers) in case of contract terms fulfillment or non-fulfillment.
The main advantage of smart contracts is a high level of security as well as absolute reliability and impartiality, which is supported by cryptography, the basis of such agreements. Smart contracts can reduce transaction costs, eliminate ambiguous interpretations or biased decisions.
Independence - no need to use the services of intermediaries any longer;
Security - the smart contract is based in a distributed registry, the terms of the agreement are encrypted and cannot be read by third parties;
Reliability - blockchain chain is immutable and the information that was recorded in the blockchain is kept by all network participants;
Savings - getting rid of intermediaries: the parties of the agreement reduce costs since there is no longer a need to pay for the services of intermediaries;
Automation - there is no need to fill a huge amount of printed documentation, all terms of smart contracts are executed automatically.
Smart contracts on the Credits platform
Credits smart contracts are created with Java, a cross-platform object-oriented programming language that has a variety of advantages enabling it to solve practically any tasks. The usage of Java allows to implement "Turing completeness", or the ability to implement any computable function. In addition it provides an ability to execute smart contracts on any type of devices that support an execution on Java virtual machine. Currently, the list of devices is limited to nodes managed on Windows, Linux, MacOs, but in the future this list can be supplemented by nodes running on Android, iOS.
Credits also utilizes Java Virtual Machine (JVM), a much more stable and flexible machine for applications with high load. It offers 2 main functions: runs Java programs on any device or Operation System and memory management and optimization.
Unique features of Credits smart contracts
Decentralized execution of smart contracts means that one particular smart contract, one state change of the smart contract is performed simultaneously on all trusted nodes of the round that reach a single decision due to the platform's consensus algorithm.
Credits smart contract function libraries have an extensive set of functions for developing decentralized applications for almost any industry:
Crypto resistant random number algorithm
Ability to run a smart contract at a schedule
Data encryption features
The function that allows to call one smart contract through another
Remote digital signature feature
Credits platform is the operating system that allows to deploy decentralized applications of any complexity. This is realized thanks to large transactional capacity of the platform and the instantaneous block formation time (5 blocks per second). We minimize the discreteness of the smart contract code execution, so everyone has the opportunity to create decentralized applications operating with the objects in real time mode.
Comparison of platforms with the ability to develop smart contracts
Balance model - the asset management method
Turing Completeness - a computational system that can calculate every possible function
Consensus protocol - the way of decision making on platform
Types of transactions.
1.) Deploy transaction intended for the initial deployment of the "raw" transaction code in the blockchain and its subsequent initialization
2.) Start transaction that contains an ordered list of smart contract methods and set of parameters. After the execution of the smart contract the corresponding new state for each start transaction should appear.
3.) After the smart contract is executed, the new state is stored in the NewState transaction. Each NewState transaction stores a link to the corresponding Start transaction in the USRFLD1 field (block number, block hash, transaction ID).
4.) Smart-gen transaction generated during the execution of a smart contract and has the address of the smart contract as the sender's address.
5.) Ordinary - a normal transaction containing the transfer amount in the amount field. With the help of this transaction the transfer to the address of a smart contract is possible.
Smart Contract Examples
The "Hello World" smart contract
Creating tokens on the CREDITS standard
Example of a token on the Credits platform


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Attractions | Nightlife | Karaoke | Food & Drink | American | Italian
Parma Tavern3350 Buford Drive, Buford, GA 30519 View Map
Parma Tavern is a neighborhood gathering place with a passion for great food & drink served in a no attitude atmosphere. We offer an eclectic mix of Italian inspired tavern dishes featuring pasta with made from scratch sauces, gourmet pizzas, rustic grilled items, chopped salads and small plates that are perfect for sharing.
Monday - Thursday 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Friday & Saturday 11:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.


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Hillary breaks promise to grieving families during Benghazi hearings
The curtain "officially" fell last week on the September 11, 2012 Benghazi terrorist attack investigation with outgoing Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's duplicitous, yet revealing, in that bone-chilling kind of way, unsworn testimony. All the warnings detailed in Hillary's Benghazi Cover-up, The Fix Is In series came to pass without challenge. The Benghazi hearings were a smoke and mirrors, false idol worshiping sham where the truth and justice became an additional casualty to the fallen Americans.
We still do not know what Ambassador Christopher Stevens was doing in Benghazi or what his meeting with Turkish Consul General Ali Sait Akin was about. We still do not know what time his body was recovered or how he died. We still do not know who issued the stand down orders declining to help Americans under attack. As predicted, Hillary hid behind the intellectually insulting Benghazi Accountability Review Board report (ARB), chaired by her friends Ambassador Thomas Pickering and Admiral Mike Mullen, that blamed Ambassador Christopher Stevens, didn't bother to mention Turkish Consul General Ali Sait Akin, "The Innocence of Muslims" Youtube video, or the group that took credit for the attack Ansar al-Sharia which translates as "supporters of Islamic law."
Hillary's long practiced skill at making a mockery of the rule of law, as documented in The Whistleblower, has been perfected. If Washington continues to have its way, no one will be held accountable for the murder of Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods, Glen Doherty and the first U.S. Ambassador killed in-the-line-of-duty in over 30 years Christopher Stevens.
During Hillary's Benghazi testimony she broke a promise to the grieving families of the fallen. Some might say she lied to them again. (The initial lie occurred when Hillary and others in the Obama administration blamed the attack on a Youtube video.) The mainstream press ignored it. Did you catch it?
While the press (CNN, WSJ, ABC) highlighted Hillary's "fiery," fist pounding tantrum, during an exchange with Senator Ron Johnson of (R-Wis.), they dropped the ball at the critical moment thus allowing the Obama-Clinton regime's cruel injustice for the families of the fallen to stand unchallenged. Didn't the Obama-Clinton regime promise to tell them all the truth about what happened to their loved ones in Benghazi?
Watch Hillary's exchange with Senator Johnson of (R-Wis)
Here is a transcript:
HILLARY CLINTON: With all due respect, the fact is we had four dead Americans. Was it because of a protest or was it because of guys out for a walk one night who decided they'd go kill some Americans? What difference at this point does it make? It is our job to figure out what happened and do everything we can to prevent it from ever happening again, Senator.
Now honestly, I will do my best to answer your questions about this, but the fact is that people were trying in real time to get to the best information. The IC has a process I understand going with the other committees to explain how these talking points came out. But you know, to be clear it is from my perspective less important today looking backwards as to why these militants decided they did it than to find them and bring them to justice, and then maybe we'll figure out what was going on the meantime.
Maybe Hillary won't tell the families of the fallen the truth because the Obama-Clinton regime already knows what happened and they do not want Americans to know about the gun running operation they have been directing to overthrow President Bashar al-Assad in Syria—an operation that could trigger World War III. The stakes are urgent considering on Saturday, as quoted by the semiofficial Mehr news agency, an aide to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said, "Syria plays a very key role in supporting or, God forbid, destabilizing the resistance front," said Ali Akbar Velayati. "For this same reason, (an) attack on Syria is considered (an) attack on Iran and Iran's allies."
What difference does it make?
By not telling the families the truth about their loved ones in Benghazi, doesn't that make Hillary a liar?
Sean Smith's mother would like to know what happened to her beloved son. President Obama, Hillary, Vice President Joe Biden, U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice, outgoing Defense Secretary Leon Panetta all promised to tell her what really happened. They told her to trust them. "Don't give me any baloney, this political stuff… just tell me the truth," she said she had said to them as she recounted speaking with them during a CNN interview clearly grief-stricken. Sean Smith's mother described crying on President Obama's shoulder and even in her grief the administration told her "outright lies."
What difference does it make?
It also makes a huge difference to Charles Woods, father of slain Navy SEALs Tyrone Woods.
Remember during an interview with Glenn Beck on TheBlazeTV, when he spoke about the day his son's body was brought home from Libya, how Hillary, after apologizing for his loss, told him that the U.S. would "make sure that the person who made that film [the Youtube video] is arrested and prosecuted."
"When she said that, I could tell that she was not telling me the truth," Woods said while he wondered why the Obama-Clinton regime did "not do something to protect" his son and the others.
All we know now is that the person who was not responsible for the deaths in Benghazi, Nakoula Basseley Nakoula, the director of the amateur trailer of "Innocence of Muslims" Youtube video, has been arrested and put in jail. That's one promise Hillary has kept.
What difference does it make?
Even Ambassador Christopher Stevens' family does not know what happened that deadly night either. As Associated Press reported Ambassador Stevens' stepfather said: "Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has reached out to his family to offer her sympathies about the deadly Sept. 11 raid on the consulate in Libya that killed his stepson, but offered them no privileged information about the adequacy of diplomatic security."
What difference does it make? And who cares that the 'consulate' was really a CIA outpost.


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Love at first bite!
You know how you feel when you meet someone and you instantly know that you were destined to meet them. You hit it off and feel like you've known them forever… that's exactly how I felt when I ate a Pasta dish for the very first time. It was… love at first bite.
And what's not to love about Pasta. There's cheese. And more cheese 🙂 And sometimes, just the illusion of cheese! (Now that's a secret I'll share with you in a bit.)
The love affair with pasta was always a threesome; me, pasta and my kitchen, and it goes back to a couple of years when my friend's mother (an amazing cook) served me a bowl of macaroni oozing with creamy white sauce and the nutty flavour of nutmeg. Imagine my shock when I asked her for the recipe to find absolutely no cheese in the ingredient list at all. She told me the secret was milk! Now, here's every mother's opportunity to get back to those fussy milk-haters. Ha! A dish kids love made with something they absolutely don't. One of life's sweet ironies, this. Pasta with no cheese!
Ever since then I began my experimentation with white sauce, also called the Alfredo sauce. I've improvised and included bits and pieces in the ingredients that I've found to work well for the sauce. And that's because I often feel guilty of being partial to cheese in my food. So over the years, I've experimented with a lot of techniques to make this version of the sauce. I substitute a little bit of cream with the milk, depending on how generous I'm feeling 😉 And cheese is mostly just an add-on and not the core ingredient at times. Heavenly, without being greasy on the stomach!
The funny thing is that the Alfredo sauce laden with cream and cheese is really not an Italian dish. The story goes like this… "Eager to please his pregnant wife, a man named Alfredo di Lelio in 1914, created a sauce made with Parmesan cheese and butter and poured it over some fettuccine. Di Lelio opened a restaurant and served this fettuccine dish, which instantly had many takers (for obvious reasons). He later moved to New York to open another restaurant and that is how the dish came to America. But it's called Pasta al Burro in Europe, and is made without cream unlike in America."
Pasta – The ultimate comfort food, anytime.
I make Pasta whenever I feel like it 🙂 A bowl of yumminess to lift my spirit. Comfort food when I'm low. A wholesome meal that makes me happier in happy moments. And yes, sometimes just to indulge myself and treat the taste buds for going sober for a few days at a stretch.
While you can go low-fat on the Alfredo sauce itself, the other important task is to get the right Pasta and cook it properly. Thanks to the Italian food revolution in India, we now have good brands at our disposal at the nearest supermarket. I've found the brands Barilla, Borges, Garofalo to be fresh and good to cook. These are available at Hyper City or DMart stores, easily. Just make sure you check the expiry date. Sometimes there are a few layers of stickers that try to increase the shelf life of the product, as salability of products still hasn't hit the masses.
If you are very conscious of the gluten intake in your food, buy Pasta that is gluten-free or a healthier wheat pasta instead of the one made with durum wheat semolina.
As for the vegetables, just add whatever you like. Broccoli, corn, baby corn, mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini. Or perhaps, nothing at all. The choice is yours. Kanika, you can maybe share with the non-vegetarians how to turn this into a meaty feast.
Here's the recipe in three simple parts. The sauce, the pasta and the vegetables.
For the sauce:
2 teaspoon butter
½ teaspoon olive oil
2 teaspoons all purpose flour (maida) or corn flour
2 cups or half litre milk
5-6 cloves of garlic, crushed or finely chopped
7-8 peppercorns, crushed
1 teaspoon of oregano
1 teaspoon of chilli flakes
Salt to taste
Half a cup of Parmesan cheese (or even Cheddar), or less as you desire
5 teaspoons of cream (optional)
For the Pasta:
2 cups of Penne Pasta
2 litres of water
A pinch of salt
1 teaspoon Olive oil
For the vegetable sauté:
Broccoli florets
Red, green, yellow Bell Peppers, julienned and cut in cubes
1 medium onion, sliced
1 small zucchini, sliced
5-6 button mushrooms, sliced
3-4 cloves of garlic, chopped
Prepare the sauce:
For the sauce, heat a skillet on medium high flame and add the butter. I add a little oil so that the butter doesn't burn. Lower the flame and add the flour. If you want the milk to thicken quickly, you can use corn flour. However, I prefer all-purpose flour (maida) although it takes time for the milk to thicken. Quickly stir the flour and fry it in the butter until golden brown. Be careful to not let it burn and also no lumps are formed in the flour.
Next, add the milk and turn the flame to medium high heat. You don't have to bring the milk to boil, simply heat the milk while stirring continuously on medium low flame. Make sure no lumps are formed in the milk. When you can see the sauce thicken a little, add the crushed garlic, crushed pepper and chilli flakes and stir. Next, add the salt and oregano (if you wish). After cooking the sauce for about 15-20 minutes you will notice it turning thicker. Then add the cheese and mix it in with the sauce. The sauce is now ready and you can remove it from the flame and set it aside to be mixed with the veggies and pasta.
Note: If you want to add cream to your pasta, replace that much quantity of milk with it and add it along with rest of the milk.
Prepare the pasta:
While the sauce is thickening, you can prepare the pasta. You need to let it cool after it is cooked al dente else the pasta tends to overcook with the heat.
Take about two litres of water and bring to boil. Add the pasta, a pinch of salt and oil. Cook the pasta for as many minutes as mentioned on the packet, or else for about 8-10 minutes and with a quick bite, check if it is done. Once cooked, strain the pasta and pour cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
Note: I generally use the hot water from the pasta to blanch the broccoli florets for about a minute. You can also separately heat water and then blanch the broccoli in it. Cool it by dipping in cold water so that it doesn't overcook as well.
Prepare the veggies:
Heat a skillet and add oil. Then add the sliced onions and garlic. Cook until onions are translucent, then add bell peppers. Add a pinch of salt and oregano. Then add the broccoli and zucchini. Quickly sauté them and set aside. The vegetables should not be over cooked because they add the crunch to your pasta and complement the softness of the pasta and creaminess of the sauce.
Heat a little butter and sauté the mushrooms for about 2 minutes or till they start releasing water.
Once all three parts of the recipe- the pasta, white sauce and vegetables are ready mix them all together.
Serve hot and sprinkle some Parmesan cheese. Pasta Alfredo is best enjoyed with Garlic bread toasted for a few minutes in the oven.
Note: Garlic bread is available across bakeries. Make sure the bread you buy is fresh. Toast it with olive oil or butter. I mostly buy Garlic bread from Birdy's (Mumbai), and the bread is generously smeared with butter so I simply have to toast it and it's ready to eat.
So treat yourself, cause come on, you deserve it! Indulge your taste buds and enjoy your Pasta Alfredo with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chianti or maybe just add some Vodka or White wine to the sauce itself 😉 (If you've taken me seriously about the vodka/ wine bit then add about 2-3 teaspoons after the milk is heated and the sauce thickens a little)
And now excuse me please. As I soak in the sights and sounds of Italy from the quaint little window on the corner Trattoria between sips of Stella Pinot Grigio and my favourite Pasta.
Yeah, Pasta elevates not just my taste buds but also my senses and gives rise to the dreams of sitting in an Italian town, sipping wine.
Bon apetit!
May we invite you to explore more of the blog and dream with us…?
Mushroom Linguine with Carrot Top Pesto
Mulled Wine for Winter Evenings
11 Pasta Recipes for Those Cravings!
Roasted Cauliflower and Celery Soup
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Grease And Saturday Night Fever 8 Track Tapes are this Movie Monday's Double Feature. Both films came out in the late Seventies, with Grease releasing in June of 1978, and Saturday Night Fever, the year prior, in December of 1977. Both films star John Travolta, but he is only a featured singer in Grease, mostly dueting with co-star Olivia Newton-John, or with others in the ensemble cast.
Grease was based on Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey's musical of the same name. The film version was directed by Randal Kleiser and written by Bronte Woodard. The movie depicts the life of Rydell High School students Danny, played by John Travolta, and Sandy, played by Olivia Newton-John and is set in the late 1950's.
We follow the story of Danny and Sandy as they unexpectedly reconnect Senior year at Rydell High after they had met over the Summer break in what they both thought would be a Summer Love only. The two "could-be" teen lovers come from two sides of the High School world, both in style and attitude, and this Musical Movie takes us along as the two try to find their way to each other, and to themselves in a somewhat coming-of-age way.
Have you heard the rumor that the story is really a death dream of Sandy's? That she drowned during their Summer Fling and is in an in-between state dreaming of what could have been if she had gone to school with Danny. The flying car in the end scene is supposedly representative of her final acceptance of her demise, and her transcendence to Heaven.
Seems a bit dark for a 70's Musical about the 50's, doesn't it? At least there are some great songs to sing-a-long to. Especially if you can get your hands on the 8 Track Tape of the Grease Soundtrack.
The Soundtrack released the same year as the film, ended 1978 as the second-best selling album of the year in the U.S., right behind the 1977 Soundtrack to Saturday Night Fever.
Saturday Night Fever was based upon a 1976 New York Magazine article written by British writer Nik Cohn entitled "Tribal Rites of the New Saturday Night". The film version was directed by John Badham and stars John Travolta as Tony Manero, a working-class young man who spends his Saturday nights dancing and drinking at a local Brooklyn disco. While on the dance floor Tony is a star, but outside in the "real world" of his Brooklyn neighborhood and limited options life, he is hit with setbacks and complications from his circle of friends, and his family.
The film delves into some of the more troubling realities of life in the type of neighborhood Tony grew up in and is struggling to escape from – like racism, unexpected pregnancy, rape, and accidental, tragic death. Talk about dark for a Musical. Though to be fair, Saturday Night Fever is not a musical in the typical sense, but it is heavily reliant on its full of hits Soundtrack.
Did you know that the New York Magazine story was a fake? Nik Cohn acknowledged in the mid-1990's that he fabricated the article. That being as he was a newcomer to the U.S. and a stranger to the disco lifestyle, Cohn had been unable to make any sense of the subculture he had been assigned to write about; instead, the character who became Tony Manero was based on a friend of Cohn's back home – a Mod, not a 70's Disco aficionado.
All that said, we all sort of like Tony, right? At least we enjoy seeing him dance to all that Quintessential Disco that you really need to hear on 8 Track Tape, on the Double Play Soundtrack.
Grease And Saturday Night Fever 8 Track Tapes are available to buy, along with other great Soundtracks from 8 Track Paradise.