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This week I have been mostly reading...
Joe Hockey in line for plum post, despite being a political loser who was almost sacked
Chris Brown concert tour posters replaced after Melbourne activists' 'I beat women' sticker campaign
Cory Bernardi: new right wing party could challenge Liberals - Would probably raise the collective IQ of both parties.
A sour, bitter episode, Tony Abbott's career will cast a long and oppressive shadow
Peta Credlin breaks silence, slams media's 'tripe and bile'
The victims and casualties of Peta Credlin's wrath
Tony Abbott's policy muddle was clear to all
Tony Abbott's department discussed investigation into Bureau of Meteorology over global warming exaggeration claims, FOI documents reveal
Bronwyn Bishop voted against Tony Abbott because he'd forced her out as Speaker
There's a righteous impatience to this newly empowered electorate "Maybe this is instability. Maybe it's democracy."
Xenophon takes aim at Turnbull
Sexism isn't responsible for Peta Credlin's own failures
Peta Credlin: Everyone to blame but a failure of a chief of staff
Hand the power of preferences back to the people
Guess who really stopped the boats? (hint: not Abbott)
Dear Scott, here's the way to go
A new leader does not cover up a $20 billion budget hole
How Tony Abbott's government was the least productive since 1971
Bidding farewell to Peta Credlin, the woman who broke all Canberra's rules
Ahmed Mohamed's parents handed out pizza to reporters outside their home Worst. Terrorists. Ever!
GOP's Muslim moment: why Trump, Carson are so unsettling to party
Fact-checking Martin Shkreli's claim that Daraprim is 'underpriced, relative to its peers' (Spoiler: False!)
Caught on camera: The moment Peter Greste learnt of pardons in Egypt
Young suicide bomber weeps before final mission
Yazidi woman raped by 'American jihadi' to testify to Congress
Russia exhumes bones of murdered Tsar Nicholas and wife
Fact-checking the link between climate change and ISIS (Spoiler: Mostly true)
Liberal leadership spill coup sparks News Corp 'civil war' More popcorn!
The war between Donald Trump and Fox News is back on
Morrissey says 'there is no need for me to say goodbye' as he plays 'final' UK gig in London. Says there is no point touring if he can't get a record deal
Album rescue series: Aerial by Kate Bush
Don Henley In Conversation With Billy Joel
Something Changed: Pulp's Different Class Revisited
Frank Zappa And Zubin Mehta Talk Music
Industrial farming is one of the worst crimes in history
A camera fast enough to show the speed of light!
This Slug Has Such a Big Penis It Has to Mate Upside Down
Pluto's surface looks like "dragon scales" in NASA's new high-res colour photos
How PowerPoint is killing critical thought
Why Brave New World is No Longer the Terrifying Dystopia it Used to Be
Humour and satire:
An Australia Out Fax
Halal Linked To Terrorism By Complex Series Of Imaginary Connections In Cory Bernardi's Head, Enquiry Finds
I got stupid on me and now I need to wipe it off on you:
The Science Behind Richard Dawkins' Problem with Ahmed Mohamed
Radicalisation Awareness Kit: Government's new booklet for schools links green activism, 'alternative music' to terrorism
Tony Abbott: my legacy the key to victory at next election
The least boring photo on my camera roll:


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hauturely posted 4 photos 5 months, 3 weeks ago
Just In XX Spring Summer 2019 during New York Fashion Week
Justin Yu-Ying Chou is the designer of his own brand Just In XX. He studied at Domus Academy School of Design in Italy and the University of Wales where he earned a Masters in Fashion Design. In just a few years, he had earned several fashion awards honoring him and his designs. His collections are very urban. They have a lot of street style to them. Justin Yu-Ying Chou often chooses to focus on Chinese and Western cultures.
For this season he has titled his collection F@$HITION. This latest collection blends modern fashion designs with art, and this is done in a very stylish and trendy way. Having both men and women walk in the show, he encompasses one of the newest trends for collections. This collection has several genderless aspects. Button down tops, jeans, blazers, sweatsuits, all have somewhat of a masculine cut to them. Details were evident in each piece. Some of the items had the title of the show written on them, F@$HITION, while other pieces had the brand name written on the outside. A look I loved on the runway was jeans over jeans: the model had on a lighter pair of jeans with cutouts around the knee and on top were another pair of darker jeans with a much larger cutout going from the waist to just past the knees.
written by Style is Viral
Click HERE to view the full Just In XX Spring Summer 2019 collection.
#article #justinxx #justinxxarticle #justinxxss19 #ss19 #styleisviral #nyfw #nyfwarticle #companyagenda #companyagendaarticle
anBn (14)anBn (13)anBn (12)anBn (11)
hauturely posted 4 photos 3 days, 9 hours ago
Celia Kritharioti Fall Winter 2019 during Haute Couture Fashion Week
This season Miss Kritarioti has chosen to present her collection at Palais de Tokyo, close to the Eiffel Tower. After a long wait outside the venue with a vast crowd of Celia Kritharioti fans, they finally opened the doors and let the guests enter. The designer Celia Kritharioti wanted her audience to think about the question "Why walk when we can dance together" as her Fall Winter 2019 Couture Collection showed on the runway. Indeed, this runway show is an invitation to a unique ballet performance where Celia reflects into her childhood with the feelings of true happiness and innocence.
Opening the show was two professional ballet dancers, as they mesmerized us with some Ballet steps. Right after that, we witness beautiful dresses with silk, tulle, and lace, organza, velvet pieces appear on the catwalk. We noticed the signature of the designer this season is the plumes which were on almost all the fantastic pieces. The color palette was very neutral, composed of nudes, black and white masterpieces. All these details were made to emphasize the femininity and grace of the collection this season.
written by Lunda Fallon
Click HERE to view the full Celia Kritharioti Fall Winter 2019 Haute Couture collection.
#article #celiakritharioti #celiakrithariotiarticle #celiakrithariotifw19 #lundafallon #hcfw #hcfwarticle #totemfashion #totemfashionarticle
hauturely posted 4 photos 2 months, 3 weeks ago
For The Bold And Daring To The Shy And Reserved at Blumarine Fall Winter 2019 during Milano Fashion Week
For the Fall Winter 2019 collection, Creative Director – Anna Molinari builds a romantic and gently nostalgic world.
The first look consisted of an ecru fur-trimmed collar coat paired with black patent leather boots reaching for the waist that generated a feminine yet classic feel. Molinari enunciates why it is time to bid goodbye to the argyle-pattern by presenting a fresh twist in hues of lavender, mauve, and periwinkle. She uses the pattern on skirts, sweaters, even dresses, with flashes of silver used decisively and not sparingly.
The collection included outerwear with boudoir connotations. With lace and fur embellishments, it is fresh, colorful, and appealing to the younger audience. As seen on corseted outerwear, pencil skirts, coats, and dresses, leopard is still our favorite cat.
The designer broke the glass ceiling through a symphony of style and creativity. The rose print of the brand's DNA that has remained consistent over the past 42 years shows up yet again. This time, delicacy against the punk rock elements generated a rejuvenated and younger feeling. The signature print on dresses, tops, cardigans, and jumpsuits showcases a contrasting but not clashing effect. This is quite appealing as the feminine motif is paired with rock leather boots. The colors used this season were a pastel overload of whimsy yellow, sage green, floss pink, creamy mint. It was like being a kid in a candy shop when you have so many options.
Show-stealing outfits with leopard print coats and black pussy bow collars slowly made an appearance. A see-through lace gown with Swarovski details on the bottom half with feather trimmings was worth drooling over. A knee-length leopard print skirt with a bow tied at the back and a black, satin bathrobe-style jumpsuit with wide lapels were a few other ensembles making a statement. However, on the other hand, we had some classic offerings, like a leather A-line skirt, versions of the LBD and see-through dresses for emergency moments of "I have nothing to wear." As for accessories, wool socks paired with strappy pointy stilettos was every girl's high school dream.
For the upcoming season of lower temperatures, Blumarine is all about the ethereal elegance and high-impact glamour. Molinari offers a vast collection of dresses to choose from, that accommodates everyone from the bold and daring to the shy and reserved.
written by Daleeda Soomar
Click HERE to view the full Blumarine Fall Winter 2019 collection.
#article #blumarine #blumarinearticle #blumarinefw19 #daleedassoomar #mfw #mfwarticle #blufin #blufinarticle
hauturely posted 4 photos 2 months, 3 weeks ago
New Vision of Streetwear at DAWEI Fall Winter 2019 during Paris Fashion Week
The DAWEI Studio brand was holding a presentation at the Palais de Tokyo venue. We scheduled an appointment so we could preview the collection. This brand, created by the Chinese designer Dawei Sun, who after studying Fine Arts in China, continued his studies in France at the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture. After graduation, he worked for several big fashion houses like CACHAREL, BALENCIAGA and JOHN GALLIANO. Sun had already created a fashion label called BELLE NINON, in pair with Ling LIU. Although he chose to practice solo for his brand EPONYME, with more freedom, with a more masculine DNA, and strong streetwear. For this season of DAWEI Studio, Sun offers us a collection with a wardrobe based on the winter Womenswear's archetypes. These have been reworked using a creative process, in a very graphic way, and with particular care in the choice of fabrics.
The first look is a unique trend from DAWEI. The trompe l'oeil coat merges a fitted dress and a tonal coat while they form one. The following looks, found in a more sportswear version were playing on the solid areas of material to highlight the design details such as pockets, or inclined backs. One could camouflage himself in the oversize puffer jackets made with a crossed front closure. This is where we see designer SUN had fun in his creative process by giving not only style but also an attitude for the DAWEI woman this season. She is not afraid to have clothes that are too wide and dares the overlay games by choice of texture and colors. Thus a boyfriend shape striped shirt becomes an oversize dress, and a pleated nude colored skirt harmonizes with the accent of a silver sequined jacket. DAWEI has not neglected the more classic silhouettes. He revisits these in a large flat Prince of Wales pattern or Vichy pattern on trapeze skirts, split to give more amplitude. He contrasts these looks with knit sweaters. On the side of a few of the sweaters are a knitted pattern of a dinosaur head and raptor claw.
written by Youness Boumia
Click HERE to view the full Dawei Fall Winter 2019 collection.
#article #dawei #daweiarticle #daweifw19 #younessboumia #pfw #pfwarticle #catherinemiran #catherinemiranarticle
hauturely posted 4 photos 3 months ago
Chocheng Spring Summer 2020 during New York Fashion Week
Showing again at New York Fashion Week was our favorite designer Cho Cho Cheng of Chocheng. Cheng studied fashion and costume design at Parsons School of Design then moving to London, working at Savile Row to learn the art and skills of British tailoring.
The Chocheng brand focuses on using natural and cruelty-free materials while adding luxurious details to the pieces. Fabrics are produced in Europe, while the garments are hand-sewn in London using skills and techniques from Savile Row. Cheng also chooses to have accessories made in Italy. These factors and details that have gone into the Chocheng collections are what makes this brand our favorite.
Like last season, this season used a similar theme of 1960's movies. Although this season's focuses were on the films Plein Soleil and Midnight Lace. The collection encompasses the retro aspects you would expect while still having a heavy emphasis on glamor, femininity, and mystery. Colors and patterns used in the collection include candy stripes, coral red, soft shades of pink, and neutral tones. Dresses, skirts, blouses, and jackets where the main types of garments seen throughout the collection. Our favorite look was the strapless bermuda top combined with a matching jacket and mini skirt in a candy stripe pattern, accessorised with large wooden framed sunglasses, a straw woven handbag and a pair of lace-up platform espadrilles made for an ultimate fun, chic, day look that we can look forward to in the next spring season.
written by Style is Viral
Click HERE to view the full Chocheng Spring Summer 2020 collection.
#article #chocheng #chochengarticle #chochengss20 #styleisviral #nyfw #nyfwarticle #cmmediapr #cmmediaprarticle

subset: commoncrawl


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The US smartphone market share story is starting to get a little boring. For well over a year it has been a two horse race. Apple is the single top smartphone maker while Samsung dominates globally and has made incremental gains in the US.
Android is hovering at just above 50 percent penetration in the US. Apple/iOS is growing and has reached a new high of nearly 42 percent. By comparison, BlackBerry has fallen off a cliff. It has gone from a share of more than 31 percent in 2010 to 3.4 percent today.
Top US Smartphone Operating Systems 2010 – 2013
Source: comScore
These data come from the most recent comScore US smartphone market share report. The firm says that 65.2 percent of the US mobile subscriber population now own smartphones, which is very close to Nielsen's estimate.
Once strong OEMs Motorola and HTC are stuck in single digits. Google last week announced the $2.91 billion sale of Motorola to Chinese hardware maker Lenovo. Whether the latter can revive the Motorola brand in the US and abroad is uncertain.
Korean conglomerate LG has made some handset gains in the US recently because of the success of the Nexus 4 and 5 Android handsets, which it makes on Google's behalf.
Like the smartphone figures, the ranking of top mobile apps and most-visited mobile websites for December is almost totally unchanged from last month and generally from July 2013, which is the first month comScore released this data. Compare comScore's most recent mobile internet rankings to those from July 2013 below.
Facebook retains its top-app status. However Google has somewhat greater audience reach though its collection of apps and mobile web properties.
December 2013
July 2013


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Rebel rousers give old place a perfect send-off
Barry-Murphy ignores sentimentality as he heaps praise on players
They anointed the old place in the only way appropriate, clenched hurling fists jabbing euphorically towards a perfect cornflower sky.
Cork vs Limerick InfoGraphic: A Closer Look with Liberty Insurance
If there was to be a textbook ending for Pairc Ui Chaoimh, this was it. Cork's hurlers peering out from the stand at a field turned crimson by their people, the noise carrying out over the canvas turrets of the marquee next door and running all the way into a giddy city.
The Pairc was never an aesthetic jewel, but it was theirs. It might have been rotten and quirky and ever so faintly dangerous, but they could be territorial about it in the way of volunteer curators protective of something odd and unloved in their town. This felt almost like a rite of passage then. A first Munster senior hurling crown for the county since 2006 and, bizarrely, Jimmy Barry-Murphy's first provincial championship victory at home as a Cork manager.
Turned out the old Pairc's last stand was to become one of its most lyrical.
It was a curious Munster final, mind. The first half always seemed in some kind of bronchial difficulty, the game wheezing and spluttering like an old air conditioning unit defeated by the soupy air. It wasn't so much being ground down by physicality as strangled by a stalemate of nerves.
Goals carry extraordinary purchase on such days and, from the moment Seamus Harnedy bullocked through for a 54th minute Blackrock-end goal, the old ghosts of the place seemed to have the gods persuaded.
For Barry-Murphy, who will scarcely ever forget the hiding delivered to him here by Limerick on his debut day as manager in '96, there might have been the sense of fitting symmetry then. But he has never tried to romanticise the stories that resonate from bricks and mortar and wasn't about to now.
GAA Newsletter
The old Pairc, he admitted, hadn't really been in his thinking. More the fact that they don't hand out ribbons for courage and, last year, his team got nothing.
"It doesn't worry me about the stadium, to be honest" he reflected.
"I have no great interest in winning the last or the first at the stadium, that doesn't worry me. I wanted to get silverware for the Cork public and supporters, but particularly the team and the players who have gone through a bit with us now.
"So I'm just delighted for the players and their families," he reflected, "it was tough for them losing those finals last year, so it's great for them to have silverware."
The game spooled itself out slowly at first. Limerick had made the early running, but all routes to Anthony Nash's goal proved tight and unwelcoming and, with Shane O'Neill on his case, the positioning of Shane Dowling on the edge of the Cork square never really looked like threatening a goal.
At the other end, only Conor Lehane and Alan Cadogan were truly flying and, by the mid-point, three of Cork's forwards were still scoreless from play and another, Patrick Horgan, had escaped Seamus Hickey's clutches just once.
These games invoke a kind of paralysis in people and, at 0-12 apiece by the midpoint, it had the air of a game that needed the clarity of a goal.
Harnedy leaked two wides just before he delivered it and had taken to snatching wary glances towards the line. "I thought I'd be getting the curly finger," he said with a smile after. "Thank God anyway the goal went in. It just broke my way and it all opened up and, before I knew it, I was in!"
Maybe the spirits in the stonework had a say.
He said the victory was less about tactic than enormous appetite and it was easy to believe. "I suppose there's no real tactic to it, it's just every man to himself. Just try and win your own ball, it's 15 on 15 at the end of the day and you have to fight for your own position and give it to the player in the better position. Just man on man and do your best to win the ball so there's nothing really."
Hurling pared down to its essentials.
Harnedy's goal changed the timbre of the battle. It was as if it compelled Limerick to do likewise in the way of a prize fighter looking to make a stand after being dumped on the canvas. And with Dowling seemingly chained to the edge of the 'square', it was no secret where they imagined they might just mine it.
TJ Ryan always sensed the first team to goal might win and, now, his team was chasing.
Paul Browne captured the group mindset when, in the 57th minute, he tried running down the throat of the Cork defence when a simple point was available. The ball was turned over and, seconds later, Bill Cooper was pointing to a wild, blaze of red at the Blackrock end.
Eight minutes later, Hickey came soloing out of defence with lovely, high-stockinged elegance, but his control was over-confident and Daniel Kearney pilfered. To Hickey's horror the ball was instantly transferred down to Paudie O'Sullivan whose sublime, rolled finish effectively ended the game as a contest.
Ryan had just seen his team beaten for being brave.
"We're very disappointed," he sighed later. "Munster finals are for winning and we didn't win it, it wasn't to be. To me, the key turning points were a couple of turnovers in the second half. But look, that's hurling, these things happen. In fairness to our fellas they gave it everything but just came up short."
They will go down the quarter-final route now, a route that – just now – is beginning to look like russian roulette.
"This was the Munster championship, a self-contained championship," said Ryan. "We're into another one now, we're in the last six and we've got to try and get ourselves into the last four, absolutely.
"I think the experience (of the Limerick players) will stand to them. At times there we dug ourselves out of trouble, we got ourselves back in the game. It was going to take something out of the ordinary to win it and in fairness it fell Cork's way."
So they turned the old place into what looked like a giant flower arrangement, an ocean of poppies maybe. And Jimmy Barry-Murphy took himself up to that quaint little room where so many great, departed gods of Cork hurling stare down sternly from the walls.
It was put to him that Cork "needed" this silverware.
"Needing it and getting it are two different things," he said with a smile. "Lots of counties want to win things, we do too, but it's fair to say the finals we lost last year were bitter pills. Those were hard to take for the group and right through the national league there was a bit of a hangover. But, since then, the lads have been great."
One year on, were Cork better?
"Time will tell," he shrugged. "We were at home and that was a big factor."
It was, especially, on a day bidding farewell to the old concrete ghost by the marina.
Who is your sportstar of the year?
Vote in the Irish Independent Sport Star Awards and you could win the ultimate sports prize.
Prizes include, tickets to Ireland's against Scotland in the Six Nations, All Ireland football and hurling final tickets and much more.
Simply click here to register your vote
Indo Sport


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|MyGradeBook Help Menu
The diagnostic report is available through the Home tab (diagnostic link) and the Reports tab. This screen displays the various sets of quiz pack quizzes that you have obtained.
The diagnostic report provides you with the title of the set of quiz pack quizzes you obtained, along with links to view a sample quiz from your set of quiz packs. If you would like to review all of the quizzes in your set of quiz packs, click on the View Quizzes link.


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10 October (Part 1) - There was no need to lie, but it was the preferred option
It must be fairly well known by now that when Bexley council is in a deep hole it will lie like crazy,
the Cheryl Bacon affair
proved that. It also proved that they aren't very good at it, their version of events didn't even begin
to hang together. Inevitable I suppose when there was not a scintilla of truth in Bacon's story.
Lying to attempt an escape from a big error of judgment is to be expected of Bexley council but it is so deeply embedded within their culture that they lie even in circumstances many people would think should be shrugged off for being too trivial and not worth the bother. A case like that has been running in parallel with the Cheryl Bacon fiasco. A case in which any intelligent person would say "it was a minor slip up, so what?" rather than indulge in unnecessary lying. Intelligence must be in short supply at the Civic Centre.
A month after councillor Bacon's illegal Closed Session meeting there was a Full Council Meeting. Resident John Watson asked a question about councillor Colin Campbell's notorious TV appearance in which he did little but lie and in doing so referred to this website. Colin Campbell snapped back "I don't read the crap on Bexley is Bonkers". It was the first time I had heard the words Bexley is Bonkers uttered in the Council Chamber and whether or not Campbell thinks it is crap or not doesn't bother me in the slightest. The object of the site is to make the dishonesty of Bexley council as widely known as possible and in passing, to annoy the hell out of the blighters.
The 'crap' remark was jotted down and much as I hate to show you my appalling 'balanced on a knee' scribble, I think I have to. Campbell's remark went on the blog next day. What I didn't realise until very recently is that Campbell's four letter word provoked a complaint and a couple of months later Bexley council answered it.
I would have guessed that they would say that use of that particular 'C' word does not offend against any code of conduct. After all, Legal Team Manager Lynn Tyler said only six weeks ago, when excusing Campbell's lying on TV, that prevarication (lying) by councillors is acceptable as it is not specifically prohibited by their code. Neither is use of the 'C' word.
But I was wrong. Bexley council decided that their preferred method of rejection of the "crap" complaint was to lie.
Their excuse this time is that Campbell did not say "crap", he said "trash". He categorically denies using the word which rang out across the council chamber for around 100 people to hear. I might have thought mayor Sharon Massey, who chairs Full Council meetings, took a reasonable and pragmatic view if she didn't consider Campbell's comment offensive, but Lynn Tyler, in her usual incompetent way goes and spoils that by also claiming that mayor Massey didn't hear it. What is it Lynn? Did Sharon hear it and was unconcerned or did the mayor not hear it at all? Lies always make a muddle, why bother with this one when there is another way out? Why is Tyler still in a job?
At least the situation with Campbell is clear. He has chosen to reinforce his reputation as the Craske replacement, Peter having been fairly subdued since his narrow escape from justice. In the true tradition of any lawyer anxious to avoid the truth, Lynn Tyler failed to ask the two people sitting closest to Campbell that evening, Teresa O'Neill and Will Tuckley. Teresa will no doubt be just as pleased with Campbell this time as she must have been with his TV appearance.
It was a bit of a storm in a teacup but it served a useful purpose. It helped prove that Bexley council only has one solution for every problem; a big fat lie.
This is probably a reasonable time to conclude another Campbell/John Watson story…
Before the General Purposes Committee meeting began a couple of weeks ago, John asked the chairman if two councillors could kindly move to one side as their position blocked the view of the other committee members. Councillor Geraldene Lucia-Hennis donned her little black moustache and said "No". Campbell thought he should show his disdain for any member of the public, to say nothing of his true character, by changing his position to ensure the view was even better blocked.
Since then, while I was with John, a councillor whose identity should probably be protected, apologised, if that is the right word in the circumstances, for Campbell's behaviour. The adjective used was "ridiculous", "utterly ridiculous" if I remember correctly. So we can probably conclude that the cancer that goes to the heart of Bexley council is not universally admired from within.


text: We would like to share with you the text of the now famous speech on the European economic crisis by George Soros. While we do not agree on all of Mr Soros' points we agree with the main thrust of the argument. It is impossible to predict outcomes of random events but it is useful to understand the different routes forward.


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BATB Princess Bear: Lumiere & Cogsworth
The Beauty and the Beast Unibearsity series completes its lineup with the bears of Cogsworth and Lumiere. With a month gap since the release of Mrs. Potts & Chip and nearly four months since Belle and Beast, it is the second time that Unibears of the same series have a separate release date. In addition, it… Continue reading BATB Princess Bear: Lumiere & Cogsworth


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Advanced Basic Computer Skills
Take the next step: two part workshop in advanced basic computer skills.
Part I is Thursday, December 6 from 10 am to 12 noon. Create documents using editing tools, setup folders and save files and learn how to transfer data to and from flash drives, CDs and DVDs.
Part II is Thursday, December 13 from 10 am to 12 noon. Learn simple Windows features to help keep the computer running smoothly, set up your mouse and keyboard for ease of use and add or delete programs. Computer security will also be addressed.
No sign-up required. Please plan to attend both sessions. Both sessions will be taught by Mike Negrelli.
Event Location: Raho Technology Center
Sponsored by Rye Free Reading Room
Sponsored by Rye Free Reading Room


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Time for Library Management 2.0?
What do Gwinnett County (GA),
King County (WA),
and Berkeley (CA) have in common? They're rough on
their public library directors. Do these recent stories have a common thread, or lessons that future library leaders could take to heart? What do you wish your director did differently?
Irony abounds:
Robert Pinsky, who was poet laureate from 1997 to 2000, said he welcomed Mr. Hall's appointment, especially in light of his previous outspokenness about politics and the arts. "There is something nicely symbolic, and maybe surprising," Mr. Pinsky said, "that they have selected someone who has taken a stand for freedom."
Hall did this by making a silly statement:
Mr. Hall, a poet in the distinctive American tradition of Robert Frost, has also been a harsh critic of the religious right's influence on government arts policy. And as a member of the advisory council of the National Endowment for the Arts during the administration of George H. W. Bush, he referred to those he thought were interfering with arts grants as "bullies and art bashers."
They seem to believe that people speaking out about how tax dollars are spent are bullies. In fact they seem to believe that there is freedom in people being forced to fund whatever they write:
... Mr. Hall said that he would like to follow in the tradition of Mr. Kooser and other laureates who have tried to expand poetry's reach. "I'd like to encourage NPR to pay more attention to poetry," he said, referring to public radio, "and the cable networks, with the possibility of HBO doing something."
As poet laureate, Mr. Kooser has had a syndicated weekly newspaper column sponsored jointly by the Poetry Foundation and the Library of Congress that is offered free to newspapers around the country. The column includes a poem chosen by him, along with a commentary.
"If Ted Kooser doesn't continue with his column, I might pick it up," Mr. Hall said. But, "I would like to include more poetry of the 17th century."
A poet's free speech is only free if we pay for it. Simply amazing.
Yes, freedom.
This is an interesting argument. However, the funding of the religious right's ideals seems to be against the very idea of freedom. A poet can write what he/she wants, governed only be his/her own sense of aesthetics and creativity. The religious right, on the other hand, is quite restrictive.Personally, I'm more concerned with my tax dollars going to the military and "faith-based initiatives" and away from education.I don't really see how you derived the statement that "A poet's free speech is only free if we pay for it." Are there not poets who post online or publish books?
Re:Yes, freedom.
"Are there not poets who post online or publish books?"
I know that, you know that, but does the new Poet Laureate know that?
Apparently you don't know that the military is one of the primary functions of government and that those faith-based initiatives are simply faith-based versions of initiatives that already exited (which are not primary functions of the government). If you want to get rid of all such initiatives then okay.
Re:Yes, freedom.
Of course I know that the military is one of the primary functions of government, but thanks for stating it as if I were a child. What I object to is the exceptionally large amount of funding it gets. But that's out of the scope of this argument.I most certainly want to get rid of all such initiatives, but that is also out of the scope of this argument.
You know damned well that right-wing nuts only bitch about tax dollars when they want to cut funding as a bludgeon to punish unpopular speech.
different situations
employees vs patrons plus more vs less information...
Its too bad the trustees weren't more forthcoming in the Gwinnet situation but the gcplwatch.org site that was against the director listed very specific complaints and I think those complaints were the primary reason for her removal. Whether she should have been removed I don't know but the complaints were significant in nature.
The King situation has lots of details a lot of which financial in nature. The fact that unionized employees voted 'no confidence' had more to do with their jobs being at risk then anything else and I'm inclined to just ignore it. Unions have mostly outlived their purpose. An interesting twist here in the fact that libraries just aren't meant to handle all the demands of an entire community.
I haven't heard as much about Berkeley, its not clear in any way what the complaints are.
Lessons Learned
I'm tempted to agree with GregS* here (And I hate to do that) but at least in these cases, seems like different situations. It would be great if we could say there's a vast right/left wing conspiracy here, but that only seems to be the case in one of the three. They're not all women/men so we can't blame that... maybe just that they're all boomers :-)I would love to hear about what others wished their directors did differently.
Re:Lessons Learned
"It would be great if we could say there's a vast right/left wing conspiracy here, but that only seems to be the case in one of the three."
Actually that would be 2
Patron Power=VRWC
Re:Lessons Learned
The one that most sticks in my mind, and I think I've mentioned this before here... Don't post the contents of staff disciplinary hearings to the bulletin board in the staff lounge!!!That will NEVER win you points with the staff...


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The Subaru Roadside Assistance Key Chain is quite the handy key chain, it will not only holds your keys but also has a built in LED flashlight as well. 100% Genuine Licensed Subaru product.
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|Archived February 20, 2019
The Pulse of Earth Science Is Strong at the USGS in St. Petersburg, Florida
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Florida Integrated Science Center (FISC) office in St. Petersburg welcomed more than 1,300 visitors to its 9th annual Open House, a 2-day event held November 7-8, 2007. The first day was Public Day, with the campus open to the general public; the second day was dedicated to 4th-grade students and followed the American Geological Institute's 2007 Earth Science Week theme: "The Pulse of Earth Science."
Offering nearly 50 displays, the Open House highlighted many disciplines of Earth science, with a focus on hands-on activities. Biologists provided a live alligator, a lesson in manatee anatomy, and an introduction to the challenges of managing threatened species. Geologists demonstrated coring methods, submarine-mapping concepts, coastal hazards, and the many tools scientists use to study climate change. Several displays on water resources highlighted basic streamflow-measurement techniques and the properties of water, and illustrated ground-water concepts and water-quality issues. Online, real-time USGS water data, such as streamflow measurements, were viewed through an aerial flythrough using a Google Earth application and the National Water Information System. Exhibits about earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanoes helped visitors appreciate the power of geologic hazards, with several displays rocking, rolling, rumbling, and shaking so that visitors could literally "feel the pulse" of the Earth.
The USGS exhibitors were joined by community partners that included the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Friends of Tampa Bay National Wildlife Refuges, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)'s National Marine Fisheries and National Weather Services, the Southwest Florida Water Management District, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Sarasota County, Mote Marine Laboratory, Tampa Bay Watch, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, the Pier Aquarium, the University of South Florida (USF)'s College of Marine Science, and the University of Florida's SeaGrant program. In addition to presenting displays, many of these agencies and partners contributed handout materials for students and visiting educators.
A special section of the Public Day Open House was created to host educators. Coordinated by Theresa Burress and library intern Mary Halpern, this section offered USGS resource materials and additional items donated by community partners to complement the exhibits. Such offerings were quite popular, as evidenced by teacher Deirdre Dempsey of the Northside Christian School KARAT program, who had visited the St. Petersburg center earlier in the year looking for guidance on geologic lesson plans. Dempsey was so enthusiastic about USGS online educational earthquake resources that she brought two examples of her students' earthquake models to the Open House. "All my students did a great job, but 10th-grader J.D. Anderson and 9th-grader Billy Truxal did such a great job that I just had to share. We all learned so much about earthquakes by simply following lessons and activities that came straight from the USGS. Not only did we all learn a lot, it sparked great interest in all of us about Earth science; that's why I had to return for the Open House to see what other great ideas and materials I could find."
Of the numerous teachers who visited the Open House, many attended with large organized groups. As part of a professional-development day, for example, Baypoint Elementarya USGS partner school in the St. Petersburg Mayor's Corporate Sponsor Partner program and a Top Apple award winnersent all of its teachers to the event, along with all the teachers from Baypoint Middle School. Baypoint Elementary's principal Gaye Lively also attended. Professor Malcolm Butler, of USF-St. Petersburg's Science Education Department, brought his class of soon-to-be science teachers to the Open House to gather ideas and information.
Several USGS guests came from afar to participate in the event, including Gayle Sisler (Reston, Virginia), Stacy Bushee (Reston, Virginia), Arturo Torres (Fort Lauderdale, Florida), Kim Crutchfield (Columbia, South Carolina), and Susan Russell-Robinson (Reston, Virginia). Retired USGS hydrologist Craig Hutchinson participated as a tour guide to learn more about FISC in preparation for hosting an annual meeting of USGS Water Resources Discipline retirees in 2008.
Further contributions came from 42 National Honor Society (NHS) students from Seminole High School, who volunteered their time to earn community-service hours. They were organized by senior Richard Livingstone and NHS advisor Susan Wolodkowitz. This group helped handle the crowd of 1,000 4th-graders by assisting scientists at their booths, distributing refreshments, and serving as tour guides.
Awards were given to the most exceptional displays in each of three categories: "Best Science Communicator," "Most Interactive Exhibit," and "Most High-Tech." Each prize was worth $1,000 toward covering expenses to attend a scientific meeting of the winner's choice. Three judgesFISC Director Barry Rosen, Associate Program Coordinator for Coastal and Marine Geology Susan Russell-Robinson, and geologist Shawn Dadismanvisited each booth and assessed it for overall effectiveness in communicating through visuals; quality of graphical representations; success in conveying scientific understanding, prompting inquiry, and providing a hands-on, "real" experience; use of materials in an innovative way; success in modeling and simulating real scenarios; and illustration of new technical methods or use of highly technical methods to illustrate a scientific concept. The competition was especially close, with several exhibits finishing within one or two points of each other.
Tracking Hurricanes by Karen Morgan won "Best Science Communicator." This exhibit featured an interactive model coastline community experiencing a hurricane. As the "hurricane" (an electric fan) approached the coastal area, wind-induced waves acted upon the coastal sediment, which responded in such a way that all major coastal processes and associated hazards were observable in a relatively short time. Visitors at the booth could rebuild, alter construction methods, and try to predict coastal response. Susan Russell-Robinson remarked that this exhibit was quite a hit at the Open House in Reston the previous week, adding that it "was extremely relevant to Florida residents and a perfect way to highlight our research-program objectives."
The award for "Most Interactive Exhibit" went to Catch Climate Fever, created by Wendy Kelly and Katie Merriweather. This exhibit included several hands-on stations that described, in an interactive way, the concepts which help scientists investigate climate history. It included hand-size models of foraminifera and pollen grains that brought into plain view some elusive microscopic details which scientists use to decipher the Earth's climate history. According to judge Dadisman, "This exhibit gave the nonscientists an appreciation for the tools used in understanding climate change by illustrating critical concepts about stratigraphy and time."
The Geowall, hosted by Rob Wertz and Brendan Dwyer, won the award for "Most High-Tech." In this exhibit, visitors don 3D glasses and then navigate through three-dimensional landscapes and structural features on and beneath the Earth's surface. This was a thrilling experience for many and used the 3D imagery to convey many complex concepts about the Earth. Special thanks go to Chris Polloni at the USGS office in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, for providing this exhibit.
FISC Director Barry Rosen proudly gave out the awards and acknowledged everyone's contribution to making this event a great success. "When you tour the displays, you get a real feel for the broad and multidisciplinary aspect of our science programs. We are especially thankful that so many partners are able to participate in the event."
Other notable awards included the "Materials Master" award for McCarron Best, who played an important role in gathering materials and led the way in creating 1,200 take-home goody bags for students and teachers. Nancy Dewitt received the "Button Team Leader" award for organizing the production of more than 2,000 souvenir buttons featuring various scientific images, including scanning-electron-microscope images of coral, aerial imagery of Hurricane Katrina, and photographs of the research vessel G.K. Gilbert deploying sonar equipment.
Other display highlights included Foraminifera Twister, a challenging game in which participants used their knowledge about foraminifera and climate to match left and right feet and hands to either benthic or planktic foraminifera, and warm- or cool-water species. When Kathy Tedesco called out "Left foot, Cibicidoides wuellestorfi," everyone had to think for a moment! You could really "get your hands wet" at Bathy Bottoms, hosted by Nancy Dewitt, where visitors mapped features on a simulated sea floor. Jordan Sanford and Dana Wiese's Shake-O-Meter Earthquake Science was a rocking good time where kids created their own S- and P-waves by working together as a group. Tsunami! triggered a giant earthquake-induced wave that repeatedly inundated a model coastal community. A few scientists were extra-creative in engaging the visitors: Lee Florea demonstrated the spelunking skills needed for conducting karst studies by hanging from a tree in full caving/climbing gear; Chris Kellogg turned a small room into a deep-submarine adventure where she could share stories from her deep-sea coral-ecology work; and Dan Brendle demonstrated how to make streamflow measurements by pumping water around in a canoe full of water.
Visitors could literally picture themselves as scientists in various settings, thanks to materials provided by Randy Hines and Carol Lowenberg of the Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The life-size pictureboards, also popular the previous week at the USGS Open House in Reston, Virginia, entertained guests as well as USGS scientists. Next year will be the 10th anniversary of FISC's Open House at St. Petersburg, and brainstorming has already begun on ways to build on this and other exhibits to make next year's Open House really special.
For a list of displays, photographs, and information about previous Open House events, visit URL http://coastal.er.usgs.gov/openhouse/.
in this issue:
Coastal Processes Affect a Restored Tidal Wetland
Coral-Reef Investigation Featured in Molokai Times
Open House at FISC St. Petersburg
Workshop on Impacts of Sea Level Rise
International Delta Roundtable Meeting
2007 SACNAS National Conference
Ocean and Coastal Mapping Inventory Workshop
Biologists Honored for Polar Bear Research
Brian Atwater Receives Award, Elected to National Academy of Sciences
Peter Barnes Receives Scientist Emeritus Best Publication Award
Ralph Cheng Receives Distinguished Service Award
Janet Thompson Receives Diversity Award
G.K. Gilbert Helps Celebrate Alumni Reunion
New Book on Tidal Freshwater Forested Wetlands
|Archived February 20, 2019


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What Government‐Run Health Care Really Means
Government-run health systems, such as the one in Canada, are pointed to by those on different sides of the issue as examples of what to do or not to do in health reform. What lessons do these systems hold for the United States as it attempts to overhaul its health care system? What policies should Congress steer clear of? Join Michael Cannon, director of health policy studies at the Cato Institute and co-author of Healthy Competition: What's Holding Back Health Care and How to Free It, and Sally Pipes, president and CEO of the Pacific Research Institute and author of Top Ten Myths of American Health Care: A Citizen's Guide, for a discussion. Pipes will recount her firsthand experience with the Canadian health care system, and both panelists will explore what lies ahead for the United States.


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Zynga's 'Draw Something' Adds Comments, Social Updates
Zynga's recently acquired game phenomenon, Draw Something, is receiving a social makeover, the company said Wednesday.
Now, gamers will be able to attach comments to their mobile masterpieces and share them via Facebook or Twitter, email them, or use them as a phone's wallpaper, Zynga said. Zynga also tweaked a couple of the game's mechanics, making its easier to refresh an image by pulling down on it, and adding an "easy undo" function that erases the last stroke in the case of a sneeze or a bump.
Zynga also will allow streaks to continue to 999, rather than just the 99-streak limit that Draw Something currently offers.
Perhaps the most significant addition to the game is comments. Players can now attach a short message of up to 100 characters to a drawing, and the player's partner will be able to respond after they guess.
Draw Something, an iOS and Android game that languished until, well, it didn't, became the latest overnight success story in the mobile game industry. In March, Draw Something topped Zynga's Words with Friends, a Pictionary-like game. Just days later, Zynga agreed to buy OMGPOP, the game's developer, for $180 million.
In early April, Draw Something topped 50 million downloads within 50 days of the game's launch.
Zynga has evolved into a collection of game development teams, either those that the company has developed itself or acquired. Historically, those games have run on the Facebook platform, but Zynga has also expanded into the mobile space, with OMGPOP its flagship acquisition. Zynga also recently launched Zynga.com, an attempt to develop its own game portal.
Zynga has also been accused of ripping off game ideas by other developers. Sources at the company have defended its actions, however, by claiming that Zynga develops "genre" games.
According to Zynga, over 6 billion Draw Something drawings have been created, with the most popular words including "table", "airplane", "bubbles", "starfish", and "birthday". The least popular include Picasso, aardvark, and arena.
At its peak, players draw an average of 3,000 drawings per second, according to Zynga.
For more from Mark, follow him on Twitter @MarkHachman.


text: Home > Power Products > Batteries and Fuel Cells This article was posted on 08/15/2012 Fundamentals of Photovoltaic Solar Technology For Battery Powered ApplicationsSolar is a natural energy source for many battery powered applications. With energy harvested from the sun, the size of batteries can be reduced, or the battery life of a system can be extended. All that's needed is a solar module, right? Is it really that simple? Let's take a look at what's possible in photovoltaic (PV) solar powered applications. ■ Learn more about Avnet Electronic Marketing Add Comment Text Only 2000 character limit Please login to comment on the article


text: The smoke-free Comfort Suites Wilmington near Downtown hotel in Wilmington, NC offers the extra space you need with the extras you want. Business travelers appreciate that our hotel is near Wilmington Convention Center, UNC Wilmington and Wilmington International Airport. You will also enjoy the convenience of our business center as well as free WiFi, free hot breakfast and weekday newspaper, a fitness center and laundry facilities. Each of our spacious suites features a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, desk, sofa-sleeper, hair dryer, convenient AC and USB outlets, an iron and an ironing board. Also, earn rewards including free nights and gift cards with our Choice Privileges Rewards program.


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December 4, 2009
Hard data about politicization of the DOJ under Bush
There was no mention of the GOP's favorite boogeymen, ACORN and the Black Panthers in a recently released report on the Bush Civil Rights Division of the DOJ. Instead, the report focused on the Bush administration's disinclination to actively pursue the recommendations of career DOJ attorneys. Take a look at this one egregious example: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/03/us/politics/03rights.html?_r=1&ref=todayspaper
When the Bush administration ran the Civil Rights Division at the Justice Department, career lawyers wanted to look into accusations that officials in one state had illegally intimidated blacks during a voter-fraud investigation.
But division supervisors refused to "approve further contact with state authorities on this matter," according to a new report by the Government Accountability Office auditing the activities of the division from 2001 to 2007.
The 180-page report was set for release on Thursday Dec. 3 as the House of Representatives takes up its first oversight hearing of the Civil Rights Division under the Obama administration.
The report represents a comprehensive review of the division's litigation activity in the Bush administration. When compared with the Clinton administration, its findings show a significant drop in the enforcement of several major antidiscrimination and voting rights laws. For example, lawsuits brought by the division to enforce laws prohibiting race or sex discrimination in employment fell from about 11 per year under President Bill Clinton to about 6 per year under President George W. Bush.
The study also found a sharp decline in enforcement of a section of the Voting Rights Act that prohibits electoral rules with discriminatory effects, from more than four cases a year under Mr. Clinton to fewer than two cases a year under Mr. Bush.
The report confirms suspicions that the Bush administration was not interested in vigorous enforcement of civil rights and voting rights laws, choosing instead to engage in political purges of career employees deemed to be too liberal and to stymie the investigation of wrongdoing that might have benefited Republican candidates.
Joseph Rich, a civil rights lawyer who has been invited by Democrats to testify and was among those given an early copy of the report, said it provided hard data that the division was politicized in the Bush years.
The report "confirms the types of problems we have been discussing for several years, particularly with respect to the enforcement record of the Bush administration," said Mr. Rich, who spent 37 years in the Civil Rights Division and led its voting rights section.
While Bush was President there were persistent indications that personnel decisions at the DOJ had been politicized but until a report from the department's Inspector General there was no way to confirm whether these allegations were true.
During the Bush years, such criticism was based on anecdotes and incomplete data. But a report released in January by the department's inspector general, citing internal e-mail and personnel files, confirmed that political appointees sought to hire conservatives and block liberals for career positions, contrary to civil service laws.
In too many cases, key information about the disposition of cases is simply missing, making in impossible to know what the decision criteria actually were.
The office also found that case files often had no information explaining why supervisors had decided to close cases, sometimes against the recommendation of career officials. In a companion report, it also found that six years of internal audits about the division's case-tracking system were missing.
Either case administration was incredibly sloppy — or someone was trying to cover their tracks. Neither of these possibilities is reassuring to those concerned about diligent enforcement of Federal civil rights and voting rights statutes by the DOJ.
Lest we forget, this is the same DOJ that fired U.S. Attorneys (like David Iglesias) around the country who resisted political pressure to pursue phantom voter fraud cases. So there are good reasons to conclude the worst about these actions by the Bush DOJ.
On a positive note, the newly confirmed assistant attorney general for Civil Rights was able to assure the committee that things had changed for the better in January 2009:
In a prepared opening statement, the assistant attorney general for civil rights, Thomas E. Perez, said the reports about hiring and enforcement activity "underscore the point that the division, in recent years, was not doing all that it could to fulfill our responsibility to enforce all the civil rights laws fairly and aggressively."
He added, "That changed immediately this past January."
Mr. Perez, who was confirmed in October, described a sharp uptick in enforcement activity across a range of civil rights matters since the Obama administration took office.
However, it is likely that some of those involved in the politicization of enforcement and hiring decisions during the Bush years are still entrenched in the DOJ, having "burrowed in" to career positions during the final months of the Bush administration. In addition, John Yoo, Hans Von Spakovsky and other key players in the Bush DOJ have not seen punishment meted out to them.
Eric Holder has a lot of work to do to restore the DOJ to its historic non-political law enforcement mission.


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At Consumer Direct Care Network Michigan, we value the strengths and abilities of each person and believe self-involvement in the direction of one's own care contributes to a more stable health condition and builds a healthier and happier community.
If you receive home and community-based services and supports through one of Michigan's Community Mental Health services programs, or one of the Area Agencies on Aging, talk to us about how we can provide fiscal intermediary services for you or your family member. We can also provide in-home supports if you have private insurance or self-pay.
We take care of the paperwork. We facilitate a background check on prospective caregivers and assist you in enrolling that caregiver. We process your caregiver's paycheck, withhold appropriate state and federal taxes, and provide workers' compensation insurance for them. We make it possible for you to be the managing employer so you can remain independent in your home.


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A LEADING county councillor has been criticised for his attitude towards immigration and asylum seekers with remarks he made set to be debated by the council next week.
Councillor Alan Amos wrote to our sister paper the Worcester News, claiming unaccompanied child asylum seekers had put a strain on the council's social services.
However, his strongly-worded comments led to a motion being put forward by Worcestershire County Council's Liberal Democrat councillors which "repudiates" his views.
The councillors also backed a reply, also sent to the Worcester News, by Cllr Andy Roberts in which he pointed out only 23 asylum-seeking children had come to Worcestershire unaccompanied last year and funding is provided by the government.
The motion ends: "As a council we are proud that a small number of vulnerable people affected by the Syrian conflict are being housed within Worcestershire and that unaccompanied asylum-seeking children are being given support."
However, Cllr Amos remains unrepentant and has written a second letter to the paper, saying the objections of "bleeding-heart liberals" to his opposition to "endless illegal immigration" followed a predictable pattern.
He said: "Firstly, it starts with personal smears of anybody who has the temerity just to talk about immigration, a subject up to now people have been too scared to mention for fear of this kind of abuse, the pent-up anger and frustration of which led the British people to vote for Brexit.
Cllr Amos said "illegals" are "anything but desperate and exploited" and questioned whether Worcestershire could cope.
"Where exactly are the spare houses, hospital beds, GPs, and school places?" he asked.
Cllr Amos added: "They chose to go to Serbia when it removed the need for tourist visas last year and long planned their journey here, choosing not to claim asylum in any of the many safe countries they passed through to get to the UK where an army of immigration lawyers, all paid for by the state, will ensure they all get to stay here."
The motion will be discussed at a full county council meeting on Thursday January 17.


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Restaurant.com is at it again! Save 80% on Restaurant.com certificates through July 12.
Are you new to Restaurant.com? Here's how it works:
1. Go to Restaurant.com.
2. Enter your zip code or closest major city.
3. Scroll through the available restaurants
4. Add certificates to your cart
5. Enter the code FUN and 80% will be deducted from your total — this code is valid through July 12. You can use paypal or a credit/debit card to pay for your purchases.
6. The certificates will be added to your account. When you are ready to redeem a particular certificate, just print it from your account and give it to your server.
Important details to note:
- Read the fine and medium sized print. For instance, your bill total must be $35-$50 in order to redeem a $25 certificate.
- Some restaurants add a gratuity to the bill for you. If they don't, please remember to tip on the total bill, not the actual cash amount you pay.
- There is no minimum purchase so feel free to just get one certificate if you're hesitant.
- You do not need to print the certificates right now. I just leave them in my account until I'm ready to use them.
- Certificates expire one year from date of purchase.
My family uses these certificates all the time. It's a great way to try out new restaurants, enjoy delicious grub that we wouldn't normally try and support the local community.
This post may contain affiliate links. See the disclosure policy for more information.


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Behavioral science tells us that persuasion is hard. When deciding whether to agree with you, people rely on emotion and ingrained beliefs far more than facts. This webinar explores the science and describes three rules that help you break through stereotypes and persuade by focusing on the listener's interests, knowledge and values.
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The New Member Application is for new FASFAA memberships only, not renewal applications.
Note: If you were an active member of FASFAA in any of the last 5 membership years, you must complete a FASFAA Membership Renewal instead. In an effort to prevent duplicate profiles in the membership database, if the e-mail address listed on your "Inactive" membership profile has changed and you do not remember your login credentials, please contact the Membership Chair at [email protected] for further assistance. Do NOT attempt to create a new profile using the New Member Application.


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Pediatric Dental Restorations
We are dedicated to maintaining the optimal health and function of your child's mouth and teeth throughout their childhood and teen years. Dr. Jorge Torres and his associates of Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon gently and expertly restore teeth affected by decay or injury with naturally beautiful results.
Although parents realize the value of preserving their child's permanent teeth, not all realize the value preserving their primary (baby) teeth until it is time for the permanent teeth to come in. Baby teeth may be temporary, but they have long-lasting effects. In fact, preserving your child's dental health can be one of the most effective ways to ensure a healthy smile as an adult. While preventive treatment is essential, Drs. Torres and his associates understand that kids can experience unexpected dental problems. For this reason, they proudly offer a wide range of restorative treatments, specially adapted for children. Their outstanding care will involve minimal discomfort, and it can provide your child with a beautiful smile for years to come.
Why Restore Baby Teeth?
It is important to keep baby teeth healthy. If your child loses a tooth too early, it can affect the way that adult teeth come in. In many cases, your child could suffer from serious dental misalignment due to the gaps in her or his smile. Additionally, missing teeth could affect eating and speech patterns.
Cavities can also have serious effects on your child's long-term oral health. Bacteria spread rapidly, and without proper care, your child could develop cavities in several teeth. Not only will this cause significant discomfort. The yet-to-erupt adult teeth could also start to decay. In fact, adults are far more likely to suffer from dental decay if they had cavities as children.
Get an Early Start With Pediactric Dentistry of Brandon
Pediatric Dental Fillings and Bonding
Fillings are one of the most common restorative treatments for kids. If your child has developed a cavity, a filling can strengthen the damaged tooth and prevent decay from spreading further. At Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon, we use tooth-colored fillings on anterior (front) made from composite resin. This material is more lifelike than traditional silver amalgam, and it will blend beautifully with your child's smile. We often use silver amalgam for posterior (back) teeth, as amalgam fillings are more cost effective.
Dental Crowns for Kids
Crowns are another common treatment for children. In fact, kids are more likely to need crowns than adults. The enamel on their primary teeth is thinner, so a cavity can often destroy a large portion of a tooth. We recommend silver crowns on posterior (back) teeth because they predictably function better in a child's mouth and are more cost effective. Tooth-colored resin-veneered crowns are recommended for anterior (front) teeth for a more beautiful smile.
Treatment for Missing Teeth
We offer effective treatment if your child loses a tooth to decay or an accident. Space maintainers are small devices that will go inside the gap in your child's grin, keeping the other teeth from shifting into this area. We have had successful results with metal space maintainers that are fixed to an adjacent tooth. If your child loses a permanent tooth, we will discuss treatment options and the best timing for treatment.
Cosmetic Dentistry for Teens
Your child's health is our top priority. However, we also know that esthetic problems can affect your child's self-esteem, especially during the teenage years. For this reason, we offer age-appropriate cosmetic treatments for younger patients. These options include:
- Bonding: Tooth-colored composite resin can be bonded to tooth surfaces.
- Invisalign Orthodontics: We offer teens orthodontic treatment using Invisalign's clear, comfortable aligners. Invisalign treatment not only improves smile esthetics but also positions teeth for better biting function, easier brushing and flossing, and a lifetime of improved oral health.
- Teeth Whitening: We offer at-home teeth bleaching using custom trays or your teen's Invisalign aligners.
Contact Us for the Outstanding Care Your Child Deserves
Whether you are seeking a specialized procedure or simple preventive treatment, we are ready to meet your needs. Contact Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon today to request an appointment for your child.


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RMHP was founded on the Western Slope more than 40 years ago to provide Coloradans access to high quality healthcare. No matter what type of coverage you're looking for, we have the plan that fits your needs – and your Colorado lifestyle.
Individual & Family
We care about the factors you look for when choosing a plan for you or your family, like access to providers you know and trust, quality care, and the option for supplemental benefits. Our Individual & Family plans were created with those requirements in mind.
Employer Groups
Healthy employees build healthy businesses. Whether you're a small business or a large employer, we have a group health insurance plan that will fit your needs.
Since 1977, Colorado retirees like you have trusted Rocky Mountain Health Plans to get the most out of their Medicare benefits. With RMHP, you can enjoy flexible options and a large provider network.
Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid Program)/CHP+
We know how important access to quality coverage is. That's why we serve Health First Colorado-eligible individuals, as well as children who receive care with the Child Health Plans Plus program.
Let's Find You Great Health Insurance
- For Employer Group Plans
Healthy employees build healthy businesses, and your employees receive the health protection they expect and deserve when you partner with RMHP. Whether you're a small business or large employer, we have a group health insurance plan that will fit your employees' needs.
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Our plans offer the coverage, network, and health management resources you and your family need for your Colorado lifestyle. Get the personalized attention and quality care you deserve from your local health insurance option that has been serving our communities for over 40 years.
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Since 1977, Colorado retirees like you have trusted RMHP to get the most out of their Medicare benefits. Enjoy local customer service, a wide variety of services, and a large provider network by choosing RMHP.


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Patient Online Application Portal
Patient Online Application Portal
Quick reference guides are available to download or print for detailed instructions on the following:
- CPR Patient Portal Registration Process
- CPR Patient Application Process
- CPR Application Process: Required Information and Helpful Tips-Patients
- CPR Income Verification Process: Required Information & Helpful Tips
- Payment/Reimbursement Process
- Electronic Funds Transfer Enrollment: Required Information & Helpful Tips
- CPR Terms & Conditions
- Co-Pay Relief Brochure
If you would like to begin the application process and this is your first time visiting the Patient Online Application Portal, click Patient Registration below to create an account. To check on the status of a previously submitted application click the appropriate link below.
Please Note: A valid email address is required to complete the registration process. After registering, you will receive an email to confirm your registration and create your password. Your account will not be active until you have confirmed your registration and created your password. Once this is done, you can log in any time with your email address and password.


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The Black Sheep
by Yvonne Collins and Sandy Rideout
YA, Fiction: Ages 12 and up
Hyperion Books for Children
Reviewed by Terry South for Quality Book Reviews
The Black Sheep is a funny and entertaining read. The setting is New York and then off to California. It begins as Kendra Bishop a fifteen year old who has had enough of her parents and all their rules; they even keep a binder filled with these rules. There is a reality TV show that offers teens a chance to swap families, so Kendra decides to write to the show for her chance to get away from it all. The winner is chosen on the basis of the most pathetic letter written, Kendra is excited to find she has actually won.
Kendra is taken from her apartment in Manhattan to California to live with the Mulligan family. They are so different, the parents are both hippies, have five children and a pet ferret. Kendra learns quickly the chaos of sharing a bathroom with so many, having to watch her belongings, and living with a ferret that wants to sleep in her bed. But her biggest problem is the pushy producer who will do anything to get higher ratings. And to top all of this Kendra falls for one of the Mulligan's, Mitch who is seventeen and despises everything this show stands for. Will Kendra win Mitch over or will things continue to decline for her?
Yvonne Collins and Sandy Rideout bring us a cast of characters who are engaging and winsome. The story is well crafted and pulls the reader into the conflicted feelings and reasoning of Kendra so well.


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As a part of our CSR development as a responsible asset manager, we contribute to a low carbon economy. Since 2002, we are committed to taking practical measures to combat climate change and protect the value of our clients' investments over the long term.
BNP Paribas Asset Management deploys a threefold strategy consistent with the target of containing global warming to +2°C:
- Allocation of Capital: Developing a low carbon offer and financing the energy transition, measuring carbon footprints, identifying and measuring carbon risks
- Responsible Stewardship: addressing climate change in our voting at AGMs and engaging in dialogue with companies on climate change
- Transparency & Commitment: BNP Paribas Asset Management signed the Montreal Carbon Pledge and joined the Portfolio Decarbonization Coalition in 2015; which highlighted the excellence of this approach in its 2016 report.
At the same time, we restrict the impact of our activities on the environment by taking measures to contain our own environmental footprint.
Identify, measure and reduce our exposure to carbon risks
We are one of the first asset managers to sign the Montréal Carbon Pledge and we joined the Portfolio Decarbonization Coalition in 2015.
We are convinced of the necessity to redirect the economy towards an objective of limiting global warming to +2°C. We believe that exceeding this global warming level will threaten economic stability and consequently long-term financial investments.
We made a commitment in 2002 to take measures against the climate change according to our fiduciary obligation to protect the value of our clients' investments.
Members of the Institutional Investor Group on Climate Change (IGCC) since 2003, we are involved both individually and collectively in the fight against global warming.
Accompany our clients in the transition to a low carbon economy
We are committed to providing our clients with a detailed analysis of the effects that climate change could have on their investments, and to offering them a broad range of solutions that will meet to their specific needs. We therefore offer bespoke solutions to our institutional investors, enabling them to reduce their portfolios' carbon footprint.
In late 2015, we prepared a report and published the carbon footprint for 26 equity funds in our international Parvest range. In 2016, this report included nearly 100 funds, all on our dedicated website (in French).
We apply policies to limit investments in sectors concerned by climate change: mining, palm oil, agriculture and the coal-fired power generation.
Reduce our own environmental footprint
We are committed to raising awareness and marshalling our employees to reduce our own environmental footprint, notably through:
- Reducing our carbon footprint
- Streamlining our use of paper
- Establishing a responsible travel policy


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Arrival day, transfer from Agadir airport to Westsurfs stylish villa, just 5 minutes' walk from the beach. From the roof terraces of the villa you have a breathtaking view of several popular surf spots and the mountains, the perfect spot for chilling out after a long day of surfing.
Tamraght is an old, quiet Berber village on the hill of Oufella. The small village is only 14 km from Agadir and 3 km from Taghazout. Get to know each other and the area or for more relaxation a traditional argan massage can be booked up on arrival.
This tour includes
• 5 hours hike in the Antiatlas with hiking guide incl. Lunchbox or lunch.
• 1-2 hours hiking in the High Atlas including lunchbox or lunch.
• Private city tour in Taroudant
The exact day that the hikes and tour take place depends on the local weather and surf conditions
Note this is a sample day only as each day can change depending on local weather and surf conditions.
From 8:00 Breakfast awaits on the terrace with stunning views to the ocean or possibly after the first surf session when things get started extra early.
9:00 Meeting point at the villa with your surf coach. You will discuss the waves and options for the day. Then surf equipment will be made to start in your day.
9:30 Departure, discover the endless Moroccan coast and search with your surf coach for the matching surfspot to your surfing level. Depending on surf conditions, it may happen that we sometimes leave earlier or later for surfing.
12:30 Fresh picnic prepared by us on the beach, to recharge your batteries
13:30 - 16:30 Guided Freesurf session. Have fun and repeat what you have learned in the morning. These moments are also recorded on camera.
17:30 to 18:45 Optional Yoga session for stretching and relax after a long day at the beach on our terrace with sea view, while the stunning sunsets in Morocco.
19:00 Traditional dinner during the beautiful sunsets on our terrace. Perfect end to dream about the next day full of waves in Morocco.
If you are tired one day, we suggest taking a half a day away from surfing and go for one of the option day trips or relax a little under the Moroccan sun on the beach.
Leaving day, if your flight allows time for a quick surf we provide transport to the beach on that day
The Surf villa has several suites, double and standard rooms for a total of 18 guests. The rooms are spread over 4 floors - that means a lot of room for everyone! Each room has either a sea view or looks over our beautiful garden
Trusted by travellers since 1979
We guarantee to beat any price
Low deposits, Book now. Pay later.
24/7/365 Help on the road
Trip Name: WestSurf Morocco: Surf and Hiking 7 Nights / 8 Days
Duration: 8 Days
From Price: ₤413
Supplier Tour ID: AGASHK/250669
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"Great time! Great show! Everyone is still talking about it."
-Sharon Wheelis; Animal Hospital of New Bern, Holiday Party
"Hi Mr. Walker. Thank you for making our office party a success. We very much enjoyed your entertainment!"
-Angie Venters; Eastern North Carolina ENT Holiday Party
"We ended the week with a day of Magic. The children loved the magic show. They were amazed by the tricks, and delighted by Magic PJ's humor."
-Danielle Gallo; The Woodlands Interfaith Day Care, The Woodlands, TX
"OH it was so much fun!! The residents loved it! Thank you again. I will keep you posted for future events!!"
-Alison Schneider, Cherry Point Bay Nursing Center, Havelock, NC
"Magic PJ, we really enjoyed your show today, everyone had a great time!"
-Jamie Sasdelli, Teen Librarian, Carteret County Libraries
"Wow! One month later, and the kids are still talking about Magic PJ's show! Thank you."
-Kinston Child Care Center, Kinston, NC
"Magic PJ did a presentation for our Rotary Club. His show was awesome...the magic fascinating...with humor that was perfectly geared for the audience...entertaining and very skilled at his craft!"
-John Brodzik, Oriental, NC
"The Comedy and Magic of PJ Walker helped to make our annual Blue and Gold dinner one of the best ever! Highly recommended!
-Clifton Game, Cubmaster, Pack 13, New Bern, NC
"Great family entertainment for kids and adults of all ages.
Lots of magic, lots of fun!"
-Patty Libby,
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Gardiner, NY


text: Raising a child is never easy, but it can be one of the most rewarding responsibilities. Quite simply, most parents just want their children to have a better life than they did. This may entail leaving their offspring with a substantial legacy upon the parents' untimely demise. However, providing for one's own retirement needs may often conflict with one's desire to leave behind a sizeable bequest, given that most of us only have a scarce amount of resources at our disposal. Hence, as with all matters of life, there is a trade-off to be made – happy retirement or happy children? Prioritise your retirement needs first. Leaving behind a legacy can wait. If you ever had to make such a choice, it's good to be slightly selfish by putting yourself first and choosing a happy retirement. Think about it. What good could you be to your children if you were unable to adequately and independently provide for yourself financially in your twilight years? After all, you are best able to give back to others when your life is secure. So, settle your retirement planning first before you consider legacy planning. To do this, you should first decide how you want to live out your golden years. Time is finally a luxury you can afford when you retire, and so whether you would like to travel, live with your children, support a charity or engage in a number of other activities, these should be reflected in your financial plans. Plan for your retirement as early as you can and review these plans as regularly as possible to ensure you are on track to meet your target standard of living at retirement. Once you are satisfied with your retirement provisions, legacy planning would naturally fall into place. This is when you may start thinking about the assets you want to leave behind as bequests to your family and the manner of distribution. What about doing both together? The wonders of financial innovation Depending on the level of planning that you've done as well as your financial capacity, you may also take advantage of financial innovation that has been developed to address both retirement and legacy needs simultaneously. In OCBC, this is possible through the PremierLife Generation insurance product. This is a Singapore-dollar denominated single premium, whole life participating insurance plan that enables customers to address both their retirement and wealth transfer needs. It allows policy holders to enjoy a guaranteed monthly income to supplement or maintain your current lifestyle, transfer wealth for up to 3 generations, guaranteed insurance coverage for life and a hassle-free application with no medical questionnaire. Seek advisory, not just product solutions While it may be attractive to jump on such product opportunities, it's important to note that a financial product is not the be-all end-all solution to your wealth transfer needs. Legacy planning goes beyond just leaving behind a sum of cash to your family. The table below provides a snapshot of factors one should generally consider when broaching the idea of wealth transfer. What you need to leave behind Begin by understanding how much you would like to leave behind to ensure that your family is financially stable upon your passing. Derive broad figures for (1) your current living expenses, (2) the financial needs of your dependents (whether they are still in school etc), (3) your existing liabilities (do you have outstanding loans on their properties or other types of investments) and (4) the ideal length of time the family should be supported with this source of income. Minimally, this should be the amount you leave behind to tide your family over upon your demise. How much more you can afford to leave behind With these figures in mind, you can then address the "wants". This encompasses the additional amount of money you would like to pass on to your successors as a head start to their lives. How should the wealth be distributed? Finally, you should settle on (1) whom the beneficiaries should be in your wealth transfer plan and (2) how these beneficiaries should receive pay out, whether as a lump sum or monthly income. Ultimately, wealth transfer should be an on-going conversation with your financial advisors as circumstances and financial situations may change, and these plans have to change along with it. At the same time, wealth transfer plans cannot standalone. Rather, you must complement these plans with your own will-planning as well as financial plans to fulfil your other life goals like retirement and children's education. Source: OCBC Bank Website. Reproduced with permission. View original source. The views, material and information presented by any third party are strictly the views of such third party. Without prejudice to any third party content or materials whatsoever are provided for information purposes and convenience only. Council For The Third Age shall not be responsible or liable for any loss or damage whatsoever arising directly or indirectly howsoever in connection with or as a result of any person accessing or acting on any information contained in such content or materials. The presentation of such information by third parties on this Council For The Third Age website does not imply and shall not be construed as any representation, warranty, endorsement or verification by Council For The Third Age in respect of such content or materials.


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This week, jurors began hearing evidence against Eric and Linda Torrez, who were charged back in 2008 with sexual assaults on children in their care during the 1990s (read the Denver District Attorney's Office news release issued at the time charges were filed by clicking here). But before the trial could reach its conclusion, both of them pleaded guilty.
Two others -- Patrick Torrez and Karen Stillman -- had already entered similar pleas last fall.
Look below to see photos of Patrick, Karen and Linda, as well as the DA's office accounting of the horrendous crimes to which the various parties admitted responsibility -- and for which Eric would spend up to life in prison.
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A husband and wife facing trial this week for sexually assaulting two children in their care over a period of several years unexpectedly pleaded guilty today. Jurors had already heard hours of testimony when the guilty plea was offered.
Eric Torrez (dob: 10-25-62) pleaded guilty as charged to five counts of sexual assault on a child (F3 and F4), eight counts of sexual assault on a child by a person in a position of trust (F3), two counts of sexual assault on a child, pattern of abuse (F3), one count of sexual assault (F3) and one count of sexual assault, position of trust -- pattern of abuse (F3).
Linda Torrez (dob: 06-11-63) pleaded guilty to sexual assault on a child by a person in a position of trust (F3).
The children, a girl and a boy, were left by their mother in the Torrez home in the mid-1990s and were repeatedly sexually assaulted in the home, even though the mother knew of the abuse. The children, who are now in their 20s, were able to report the abuse after escaping the home in 2008.
Two others were also charged in connection with this case; the mother of the children was charged as a complicitor, accused of aiding and abetting the assaults, and one of the Torrez's sons was also charged.
Karen Stillman (dob: 03-25-51) pleaded guilty last November to attempted child abuse resulting in serious bodily injury (F4). She is serving a 16-year prison term in the Colorado Department of Corrections.
Patrick Torrez (dob: 07-04-86), son of Eric and Linda, pleaded guilty last October to second-degree assault (F4) and contributing to the delinquency of a minor (F4). He is scheduled to appear in Denver District Court on March 25, 2010 for sentencing.
Eric and Linda Torrez are scheduled for sentencing on May 13, 2010. Eric Torrez will face an indeterminate to life sentence.


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Develop professional enterprise Java EE applications by taking advantage of the time-saving features of the NetBeans 7 IDE
About This Video
Use the features of the popular NetBeans IDE along with keyboard shortcuts to accelerate development of Java EE applications
Take advantage of the NetBeans debugger to get rid of bugs that may creep into your Java EE code
Learn about all the major Java EE APIs as well as tips on how to effectively use the NetBeans IDE to save time when developing Java EE applications
In Detail
Oracle's popular NetBeans IDE has several features that greatly simplify Java EE development, but with many features and great flexibility, Java developers can become overwhelmed by the options available in NetBeans. This video course provides hands-on instructions that show you how to take control of the environment and make use of these features to make your Enterprise Java application development more efficient and productive than ever before so that you can concentrate on the important parts of your application.
Java EE Development with NetBeans 7 shows you how to develop applications using the most important and latest Java EE technologies and APIs such as JavaServer Faces (JSF) 2.0, Enterprise JavaBeans (EJB) 3.1, and the Java Persistence API (JPA 2.0). The course is a practical guide explaining the various features of the NetBeans IDE related to Enterprise application development.
Java EE Development with NetBeans 7 covers all the major Java EE technologies, APIs, and the rapid development capabilities of the NetBeans IDE such as wizards and keyboard shortcuts. While focusing on NetBeans features, you will learn how to develop aesthetically pleasing web-based user interfaces using Java Server Faces. You'll also learn how to take advantage of automated transaction handling and scalability via Enterprise JavaBeans, and how to simplify database access through the Java Persistence API.
By the end of this course, you will be able to develop Enterprise applications quickly and easily by taking advantage of several time-saving features of Oracle's NetBeans IDE.


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Useful Facts To Know About Damon Braces
You may have heard about self-ligating braces but may not have any idea about what it is and how it works. Here is a list of some important things to know about self-ligating braces that are also known as the Damon Braces System.
Invented by Dr. Dwight Damon these braces get the name and was first introduced in 1996. These systems are essentially passive self-ligating system that uses brackets. These brackets do not require any elastic ligatures or O-rings so that the wires can be held in place. Instead, it uses small sliding doors for that matter. This sliding mechanism enables the wires to move freely within without any friction making it more comfortable and popular choice.
Comfortable And Effective
There is a stopper attached to the wires in these braces. This stopper enables it to prevent the braces from moving away from the position in which it should be. These braces are also more comfortable as compared with any other traditional metal brace systems.
It is believed that these braces produce faster result and is very effective as well. Once you sue these braces you will not have to visit the orthodontist or dentist regularly for the necessary adjustments as the ligatures or O-rings does the needful preventing it to move from its original place.
Some Specific Attributes
The Damon Braces Phoenix are made from stainless steel and transparent ceramic material. This is a very useful and effective combination that gives the patient a strong, sturdy and durable system. The manufacturing materials also makes it is less noticeable than any other traditional and commonly used metal braces.
The brackets that are used in these braces are much smaller as compared with the conventional metal brackets that make it very comfortable and easy to use as well. There is special glue used in these systems for attaching the brackets to the teeth of the patient properly reducing movements further. The whole process takes about one to two hours to apply on the teeth.
The Dental Condition
To apply these braces the orthodontist may require making some extraction in some teeth of the patient depending on the condition of the teeth and boning structure. This has to be done essentially before the placement of the braces.
The cost of the Damon braces system is a little more than other conventional braces system but the benefits enjoyed by the patient using these braces surpasses expectation. Additionally, the cost of these braces will also vary from patient to patient.
Various Options Available
There are various options available to a patient when it comes to the use of braces. Apart from Damon braces, which are one of the several dental innovations of modern times, you can use Clear braces, Ceramic braces, Viazi braces, or Invisalign all of which has better design concepts.
But Damon braces are more favored due to the key components which include elimination of the use of metal ties, requirement of fewer adjustments due to the light high technology shape memory wires, and not requiring rapid palatal expanders or extractions. It not only aligns your teeth but also enhances the aesthetics.


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You can email your questions to Professor Hammer at email@example.com, or mail to Professor Hammer, c/o CLASSIC TRUCKS Magazine, 774 S. Placentia Ave., Placentia, CA 92870. We'll print your name and city unless you request otherwise. Ron Covell has made many DVDs on metalworking processes, and offers an ongoing series of workshops across the nation covering all aspects of metalworking. Check them out online at www.covell.biz, or call for a current schedule of workshops and their free catalog of DVDs and fine-quality metalworking tools. Phone 800-747-4631, or 831-768-0705. You can send a request by mail to Covell Creative Metalworking, 106 Airport Boulevard #105, Freedom, CA 95019.
My everyday driver is a Ford F-150 Lightning pickup. I'm installing some engine-turned aluminum panels to finish off some areas made of plastic-the sill plates, and the edges of the lower rocker panels.
Should I use .030- or .063-inch material thickness? How should I attach the pieces? My first choice would be to use glue, but if that is not recommended, I'll need to know what type of screws to use, such as self-tapping, stainless steel, etc. If gluing will work, I need to know what type is best.
Jerry Nielsen
Via the Internet
I'd prefer the .030-inch material, since it's easier to cut and form. You would only need the .063-inch material if it was used in a heavy-duty or structural application. It sounds like your use is merely cosmetic, so I'd stay with the thinner material.
There is a very easy-to-use adhesive tape called VHB, made by the 3M Corporation. (VHB stands for Very High Bond.) It's similar to double-sided tape, except there's no tape. When you apply it and peel off the paper backing, there's only a thin layer of adhesive left on the part. It's designed to bond metal, and it bonds to most plastics too. It's a lot easier to apply and clean up than liquid, spray, or gel adhesives.
The tape doesn't appear to have a lot of strength when it's first applied, but it develops its maximum bond after 24 hours. It helps to clamp or weight the panels into place as the adhesive is setting. Holding the panels down with masking tape should work in areas where clamping or weighting is impractical.
Here's a tip for trimming the tape-you can lay down strip after strip on the back side of the panel, being careful not to overlap it, but leave the ends long so they hang over the edges. After you have all the tape positioned, you can use a file at a 45-degree angle to cut through the tape, which trims it neatly right at the edge of the panel. Scissors don't work well, since the tape is so tacky it gums up the blades pretty quickly.
There are many places that sell this tape, and it comes in a wide range of thicknesses and widths. The material I use is 1-inch wide, and the adhesive is .010-inch thick. Check with your local 3M dealer, or a large industrial supplier like MSC. The core number of the roll I'm using is 2-1300.
I'm looking for information to help with the restoration of my '79 Ford pickup. The grille bezel is aluminum and has many light scratches on it. I want to remove them, but I'm having a rough time. I was told to rub it with aluminum foil, but I had no success. I was also told to use light sandpaper and then buff it out. Do you have any suggestions on how I can restore this piece?
Regg Gossert
Via the Internet
The grille bezel on your truck is aluminum, but it has a bright anodized finish that's pretty much impossible to match in terms of color and texture. I'd check with both OEM and aftermarket suppliers to see if a replacement part is available. Lacking that, perhaps you could find a good used part on eBay, Craigslist, or some other source.
If none of these leads pan out, you'll have to give a uniform finish to the part you have. You might consider using a different finish completely, such as paint (either the same color as the truck, or a contrasting color), or a different finish, such as the bright silver ceramic coating that's often used on exhaust systems (this finish is available in other colors, too).
If you want a more brilliant finish, the original part could have the anodizing chemically stripped (I'd suggest sending the part out to a plating shop for this), and the part can be polished. Polishing a part as large, convoluted, and thin as your grille bezel is no small feat, and I'd only trust this to a very experienced polisher. Another option is to strip the part and give it a matte finish with a non-woven abrasive.
Unfortunately, a bare aluminum part is not as durable as the anodized original, and it will probably require occasional maintenance to keep its luster. One thing in favor of this approach is that if it ever gets minor scratches, you can probably "touch it up" without removing the bezel.
Chrome-plating the aluminum part will give it the shiniest and most durable finish. While this is expensive, it will produce a very durable finish that is easy to maintain. Again, because of the size and fragility of the part, I'd only entrust this to a chrome shop with an excellent reputation. The only downside to this approach is that the chrome finish will be brighter than the original bright anodized finish, but you might like this look even better!