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Farm Industry News sat down with Jordi Tormo, BASF vice president, at the agricultural division's headquarters in Limburgerhof, Germany, to learn how the company is positioning itself to meet the needs of U.S. producers.
For BASF, how important is the U.S. market?
The North American market accounts for 25% of our global crop protection product sales. It is a high-value market, and producers want the best products and the best services. While emerging markets offer additional growth opportunities, we will not forget our major mature markets.
What are the challenges that U.S. producers will face in the coming decade, and how will BASF address these challenges?
I think of three different areas. First, we will need to increase productivity on the same amount of land. Increasing yield per acre will need the best products with the latest technology.
Second, anything we do must help producers farm more sustainably. Farmers are also becoming keenly aware of the sustainability challenges they face and are working to run their businesses in a sustainable way, both environmentally and economically. At BASF, we have a very strong sustainability program and have launched AgBalance. This method directly measures agricultural sustainability from start to finish in the production chain. We can compare what is sustainable throughout the entire growing process, not just at one point. This is proving to be a very valuable tool, because it shows producers the economic, social and environmental payback to everything they do.
The third issue is the weed resistance challenge. Current levels of resistance in the field mean that we have to come up with better solutions to ensure producers have the tools available to them. We have in BASF nine different modes of action, which can provide diversity to control resistant weeds and ensure proper weed resistance management.
You mention that you are working to expand the role with your customers to beyond chemical sales. How are you doing that?
One important aspect is that we are going to the customer with more of a crop approach than a product approach. We focus on the farmer needs beyond herbicides, insecticides and fungicides and being not just a crop protection company that supplies only product, but more an agricultural solutions provider. We work with the customers. This helps us understand their needs and ensure we are meeting their needs.
How much of BASF's focus is on new active ingredients?
Of course, a new active ingredient or new modes of action are always a focus of our research and development.
We have a tremendous portfolio of products, and we continue to produce as much innovation as possible from our current product lineup. For instance, dicamba is an older product, but it is having a second life in the United States. And outside of the U.S., dicamba is not a well-known, or widely used, product. Because of our large product portfolio, we can see how these products can be used in new markets.
Worldwide, where are the largest areas of growth for BASF?
For the crop protection business, one area of huge potential is rice in Asia. It is the second most planted crop in the world. Another area is the corn and soybean market in the U.S. As the value of these crops increase, producers are looking to us to provide products that help them farm more profitably.


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The Usuals
This gallery contains 3 photos.
In Italy, it is common to find running fountains, horse carriages, and little shops. Everyday that I wandered about the streets, I saw these things. The fountains were beautiful and the little shops were alluring. I found that the shops look little on the outside but once you step in, its like you've entered a […]
Roma Oh Roma!
This gallery contains 6 photos.
The "Study" in Study Abroad
Show Him Your Palm
This gallery contains 2 photos.
I decide to browse around the streets of Roma and I stumbled upon this fortuneteller. Look at him work
Bella @ La Fontana Di Trevi
A Beautiful Day at the Vaticani
This gallery contains 8 photos.
I I took a trip to the Vatican Museum on a beautiful, sunny day. It was truly amazing and the art was to die for.
Breakfast At Astor Place
This gallery contains 3 photos.
Breakfast at Astor Place in Florence was sooo delicious!
IL Colosseo
This gallery contains 6 photos.

subset: commoncrawl


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According to your browser settings, you prefer the language English (US).
Our site is available in English (US).
Professional Monitoring of Sophisticated PV Systems
The Pfitscher winery is the first in Italy to receive KlimaHaus (CasaClima) certification. This means the Pfitschers' winery meets numerous requirements for environmental protection and climate-friendliness. They have environmentally friendly power generation from a photovoltaic plant and efficient energy management thanks to Solar-Log™.
The data logger selected was the energy management system from Solare Datensysteme GmbH, which in this case consists of a Solar-Log 2000 and the Solar-Log WEB Enerest™ online portal.
The largest PV plant in Australia that has ever been installed on the roof of a school was installed by Enervest.
ECOsys, part of ITG (Holding) implement a solar photovoltaic system over two of its complexes. The project is fully executed, providing a total capacity of 266 kWp for the resort.
The PV system is one of the largest private PV systems in Lebanon. It includes 1,704 panels covering a surface of 4,000 m2, which will be able to deliver 450 kW for a yearly produce of 621 MWh of power.
This photovoltaic system is one of the largest roof-mounted systems in Switzerland and is located at the Migros Neuendorf distribution center. It is comprised of 29,737 solar modules which cover an area of 47,679 m2.
The Solar-Log™ can manage each CHP based on power needs instead of heat needs. This allows the CHP to be operated during the summer months when the power needs reach the threshold defined in the Solar-Log™.
ECOsys benefits from the feed-in management function of the Solar-Log™ to build an energy management system that regulates the performance of the PV system.
This photovoltaic system is located in Bolesiny, in the Czech Republic and has a size of 2,27 MWp.
Asunim Turkey, a project developer, EPC and O&M company, has selected global market leader, Solar-Log™, to monitor two solar PV plants currently under-construction in Akhisar and Kula.
Monitoring of the almost 100 SunPower™ modules with a total of about 32 kWp is done with a Solar-Log 1200 connected to the Solar-Log WEB Enerest™ portal.
This photovoltaic system is located in Ostrov & Stribra, in the Czech Republic and has a size of 2,48 MWp.
The PV Training Center was founded by ADLER Solar, a leading full service provider in the solar industry. The project has been implemented within the framework of the Renewable Energy Solutions Program that is coordinated by Deutsche Energie Agentur (dena).
Photovoltaic plants are already an integral part of energy production in many industrialized countries. This technology is only slowly establishing itself in the developing regions of the world. One of the first steps to provide electricity from renewable energy resources has been initiated by BIOHAUS-Stiftung from Willi Ernest with the project "Solar beats Diesel."
The Solar-Log™ PM Box (EMS – Export Management System) provides additional options for the Solar-Log™ in regard to independent safety functions and compliance in the area of power management and feed-in limitation requirements. The ONIX spa in Kosovo benefits from this function.
This is the first commercial scale project for a distribution company in Lebanon, where 968 panels are installed over 2 separate roofs, covering electricity consumption of offices and warehouse areas, with a total capacity of 307 KWp. The system is expected to produce 320 megawatt-hours of energy yearly, with a CO2 saving of 225 tons/year.


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Cannes 2012: Watch trailers of six films playing the festival
Bruce Willis, Wes Anderson, Josh Hutcherson, Marion Cotillard, Lee Daniels and Nicole Kidman are among the talents bringing films to the Cannes Film Festival, whose lineup was announced Thursday. The prestigious festival kicks off in the southeast France town on May 16. Check out the trailers below to get familiarized with some up this year's films.
"Moonrise Kingdom," directed by Wes Anderson
Opening the festival is the Edward Norton-starring comedy by Wes Anderson. It's his first film to appear at Cannes. Set in the 1960s, "Kingdom" centers on two young lovers who run away from their New England town, prompting a search party to go after them. Focus Features will distribute the film in the U.S. starting May 25. Bill Murray, Bruce Willis and Frances McDormand round out the cast.
"On the Road," directed by Walter Salles
Starring Kristen Stewart, Garrett Hedlund and Sam Riley, this long-gestating adaptation of Jack Kerouac's 1957 Beat novel will be in competition at the festival. Executive produced by Francis Ford Coppola, the film also features Viggo Mortensen, Terrance Howard and Amy Adams.


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Category : Template.
Topic : Contractor invoice template uk. Author : Ellen Johns.
Posted : Thu, May 23rd 2019 12:19 PM.
Format : jpg/jpeg.
No matter how much you and your office manager love to play with your computers, you will save a great deal of time and money, and you will get far better results from downloading templates instead of creating your own. Assuming that you are reasonably proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite, you may create your own invoice template; but why go to all the trouble of reinventing the wheel?


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ARCTIC NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, Alaska — Kirk Sweetsir landed his Cessna at the Gwich'in outpost of Arctic Village, promptly at 9:30 a.m. He had arrived to fly our group of four to Last Lake, deep in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge or ANWR, the starting point for our two-week, late summer hiking and packrafting expedition.
The concept of one-person, packable rafts has been around a long time, but over the past decade this niche sport has revived with the advent of lighter but incredibly durable fabrics. Packrafts have gained a cultish following in places such as Alaska. For our purposes, packrafting would enable us to cover significantly more ground as well as experience the Arctic from the land and the water.
A 45-minute flight dropped us on a landing strip a mile south of Last Lake. Ringed by towering gray peaks and ancient moraines overgrown with blueberry bushes, Last Lake was an appropriate place to begin the trip. It served as a base for the 1956 Sheenjek Expedition (named for the 200-mile-long river), which provided much of the scientific evidence used in the designation of ANWR in 1960.
While my husband, Andy, and I searched the lake's shore for remnants of the historical expedition, friends Heather and Moe climbed the pyramidal peak behind camp and spotted five Northern hawk owls. The stress of days of travel and logistics to reach this place was falling away.
Much of the attraction of our route was its diversity of ecosystems and our first few days hiking up the Sheenjek were no exception. Within half a day we had gained enough latitude to leave tree line and forests of black spruce behind.
Whenever possible we would walk on exposed sections of the Sheenjek's cobbled riverbed. When the river forced us back on shore, we slopped our way through muskegs (a kind of bog or swamp) pocked with tussocks, grassy mounds the size and shape of a human head and difficult to stand on. When we tired of this, we moved onto dry, higher ground carpeted with tundra.
From a distance the tundra can appear boring. But like much of the Arctic, its complexity is deceiving. It takes patience and close examination to appreciate the sophistication of its intricate patchwork of plants and lichens.
Many people associate ANWR with the massive migration of the Porcupine caribou herd (also named for a river) as it moves off one calving ground on the Coastal Plain, seeking refuge in the mountains from bloodthirsty mosquitoes. We were too late for that, but it was strange that even after several days we had yet to see any wildlife. ANWR is home, also, to moose, grizzly bears, wolves, Dall sheep, wolverines, porcupines, and many others. We had all commented on their absence, even of signs such as scat, tracks, or fur. But finally it seemed our luck was turning.
"It's a moose!'' shouted Heather, waving her trekking pole at a flash of brown fur crashing through the willows.
Except it wasn't a moose.
The animal doubled back toward us at a gallop. It was a grizzly. It stopped 15 feet away, snarling. Instinct pushed us back but logic kicked in. We scrambled to face it, yelling for all we were worth. Finally, it turned and ran into the willows. We pushed out to the riverbed, grateful we were a foursome.
Eventually, we started up an unnamed drainage that would take us to the Continental Divide and over the crest of the Brooks Range. It had been over a week since we had heard a plane or the sound of any other humans.
Higher and higher we hiked, gradually leaving behind the verdant river valley and moving into the high alpine, then the rock and ice zone where smears of ice clung to impossibly steep slopes. The contrast between the topographical maps indicating where glaciers ran and the reality was striking. Most of the glaciers were anorexic images of their former selves, a stark reminder that the Arctic is warming at a rate double the global average.
Finally we made it to the pass where we stepped from one side of the Continental Divide to the other. At the toe of the glacier below, the initial ribbons of the Jago River were visible — our watery trail out to the Beaufort Sea. We made our way down the exposed glacier's ice and through the moonscape of the moraine. If all went according to plan we would be floating in our packrafts the next day.
After a day of hiking downstream, we arrived at a wide valley where the Jago fingers out, and another tributary joins its flow. The water was raging. After a few attempts at crossing we decided to wait until morning for the water to go down. But it rained all night and morning brought more of the same:
"Slow,'' I shouted to Andy. Dark muddy water pushed against my thighs. My feet skated over the river bottom.
"Go back,'' I yelled to Andy, who was at the head of our river-crossing conga line. "There's too much water.''
Photo: ZUMA Press
Friends who know the area had cautioned that an August trip might leave us high and dry for packrafting and we would have to hike more than we hoped. But the Brooks Range had received unprecedented amounts of precipitation in July and the continuous rain since we had crossed the Continental Divide two days earlier wasn't helping. The Jago had turned into a fast and furious churn of Class IV rapids, alive with the clatter of boulders. We packed up our rafts and kept walking.
We quickly spotted more animals on the Jago than during our entire time on the Sheenjek. We watched as a caribou calf, buoyed by her hollow hair, swam right across the same river that had stymied us. Later we sat mesmerized by a pack of five wolves. Another day it was a grizzly scratching his back on a rock, then a pair of wolves stalking caribou.
The Coastal Plain's soupy fog felt a long way from the sunny shores of Last Lake. As Andy cooked spaghetti over a small fire, I watched five caribou grazing. We were camped at Area 1002's boundary line, a 1.5 million-acre region on ANWR's Coastal Plain that was established in 1980 through the Alaskan National Interest Land Conservation Act. Not only is Area 1002 one of the calving grounds of the Porcupine caribou herd, which Gwich'in and Inupiat natives rely on for subsistence, it is also home to an estimated 10.4 billion barrels of oil, which could be accessed by an act of Congress. As a result, Area 1002 has become ground zero for the Arctic drilling debate.
At a small butte called Bitty, the Jago's gradient at last mellowed. We inflated our boats and launched in the muddied water.
The thrill of bouncing over rapids with a 50-pound pack tied to the boat's bow was a delightful change of pace. Try as I might, a significant amount of hiking time is always spent looking down. I welcomed the opportunity paddling provided to scan the surroundings.
Slowly, the Jago began morphing into a braided delta, the pulse of its current growing fainter. The sea was getting closer and each night we pitched our tents closer together, mindful of the possibility of polar bears.
Our final day was spent crossing the Beaufort Sea to the Inupiat village of Kaktovik. After eight days of nearly continuous rain, temperatures in the 30s, and howling wind, we were blessed with sunshine.
It had not taken us long to learn that without the downpours the Arctic's brightest moments — spotting an Arctic tern returning to Antarctica or double rainbows in a midnight sky — would not have been as bright.
Molly Loomis wrote this story about a trip taken over the summer of 2010 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge's founding and to retrace the steps of adventurer Mardie Murie. You can see photos from the adventure at Boston.com. Loomis can be reached at www.mollyloomis.com.
Inset photo (top) shows the reflection of mountains on a marsh fork of the Canning River in Arctic National Wildlife Refuge: ZUMA Press


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You'll want to put this video on full-screen, at 1080p. Jokke Sommer and Ludovic Woerth drop from
gliders ultralights out of a cloudy Brazilian sky, taking the shortest path to the ground—between the 38-story Ventura Corporate Towers, landing in the Praça Tiradentes beyond.
Sommer writes on his Youtube page that the pair did not have permission to make the jump, but helpfully scheduled it for dawn, before flight traffic into Rio began.


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In the Epidemiology Program, we aim to understand the factors that influence the incidence, distribution, and control of cancer and other harmful diseases within the human population.
The major goals of the Epidemiology Program are:
The majority of the research conducted within the Epidemiology Program can be grouped into two categories: 1) studies of etiology, and 2) studies of cancer survivors.
Click here to view a complete list of projects within the Epidemiology Program.
Owner: Kara McBroom
Last Modified: 10/2011


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There are 3 methods to find Version Samsung ML-2525K
Method 1: Printing Configuration reports:
Step 1. Turn printer on and waiting it is ready for work.
Step 2: "Configuration Report" can be printed using program "Smart Panel", which is supplied with printer's drivers. For more info about this application please look at "Samsung.com".
Step 3: Press and hold button "Stop/Print Screen" (on printer) in 15s – 20s (green blinking 4 – 5 times) and then immediately release button "Stop/Print Screen".
Step 4. If you do it correctly, the printer will automatically print out a configuration file and serial, version stored in config file.
Method 2: Find Version Samsung ML-2525K on Formatter Board:
– Formatter Board of Samsung ML-2525K is the main control board, it has the function of receiving the print command from the computer and controls the printer's parts to work correctly.
– How to identify PCB board Samsung ML-2525K: it has usb cable which connects with printer.
– Version of the printer to be printed on a label which is covered on big Jupiter chip of Formatter Board
– This method is described in the below picture :
Method 3: Find Version with web access printer:
– This method applies only for network printers.
Download program to find IP Address printer: Cain & Abel
Step 1. Turn printer on and waiting it is ready for work.
Step 2: Connect printer to network by RJ45 port or Wifi.
Step 3: Open browser(IE, firefox, chrome…) and type IP Adress of printer and find out machine info tab, you will see version and serial of printer.
– This method is described in the below video:


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Author Notes: Sun-dried tomatoes are easy to buy at the store, but turns out they're a cinch to make at home. My recipe is for making a small number of sun-dried tomatoes, but as long as you've got oven space, why not double or triple the number of tomatoes you dry?
Once the tomatoes have dried out, you have two options: you can store them dry, in a baggie, or in garlic-infused olive oil. I haven't given instructions for safely canning sundried tomatoes in oil--I store them in oil in the fridge anyway. —Cara Eisenpress
Makes: one 8-ounce jar
pound plum tomatoes (5-6)
a few
pinches coarse salt
sprigs fresh thyme
cup olive oil (optional)
clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Preheat oven to 200°F. Place a metal rack on a baking sheet.
- Cut each tomato in thirds lengthwise. Each slice should be about 1/3-inch thick.
- Sprinkle salt on the cut sides of the tomatoes--not more than you'd want to eat though! Line a cutting board with a dish towel or paper towels and place the tomatoes on top. Top with another dish towel and another cutting board. Weight with a heavy cookbook or two. The Food52 Cookbook or Essential New York Times Cookbook are good options. Leave for 20 minutes. This helps get some of the tomato's juices out early, before they go in the oven.
- Remove the tomatoes from the cutting board sandwich, dusting off any salt that hasn't dissolved, and place them on the rack, with at least 1 inch in between. Sprinkle with the fresh thyme.
- Bake for about 5 hours, until the tomatoes are dry to the touch and have wrinkled around the edges. You can really decide how dry you want them--as dry as raisins? or do you want to leave a little plumpness? Watch them (and try them) as they cook, and decide for yourself. When done, remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
- If you're going to be storing your tomatoes in olive oil, place the olive oil and garlic in a small jar while the tomatoes are cooking, and let the garlic steep to flavor the oil.
- When the tomatoes are cool, add them to the oil. If not using oil, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
- This recipe is a Community Pick!
More Great Recipes:
Condiment/Spread|Italian|Vegetable|Tomato|Thyme|Slow Cook|5 Ingredients or Fewer|Fall|Summer|Vegetarian|Vegan|Gluten-Free


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Former Bison Smith up for Class A Best Starter Award
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – After an impressive 2011 season with Class-A Dayton, former Lipscomb baseball standout Josh Smith has been nominated for a MiLBY (Minor League Baseball Yearly) award for "Class A Best Starter".
A 2010 draftee by the Cincinnati Reds, Smith led the Midwest League with a 14-7 record and 166 strikeouts. The second-year pro posted a 2.97 ERA and walked only 33 batters in 142.1 innings pitched.
Voting for the award is open until Oct 20.
Click here to vote for Smith as the Class A Best Starter


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Zack did not disappoint and neither did Royals fans – both were in championship form this afternoon at Kauffman Stadium. With seven innings pitched, seven strikeouts and only one earned run, Greinke was once again absolutely dominant.
The moment that really stands out for me was a classic showdown with Minnesota catcher Joe Mauer with the bases loaded in the 3rd and the Royals leading 3-0. In a head-to-head match-up of the player who should be the 2009 AL MVP against the pitcher who should be the 2009 AL Cy Young, Zack struck out Mauer with another of his devastating sliders. Case closed.
Just A Bit More: Thrilling is the only way to describe the salute Royals fans gave Zack in his final appearance here at home this season. In fact the official crowd of 28,721 ranked third all-time for Royals season finale home games behind October 4, 1981 (28,723) and George Brett's last game at Kauffman Stadium on September 29, 1993 (31,228).
The 2009 home season is over – but the Royals Hall of Fame will still be open this offseason. Please make plans to stop by and bring some family and friends with you – check here for our hours.
Opening Day 2010 is Monday, April 5 against the Detroit Tigers. Just 189 days away – We can't wait…see you there!
(Curt Nelson, Director – Royals Hall of Fame)


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To join us you will need to decide which part of the Royal Navy or Royal Marines you are interested in applying to. If you would like help with this process, you can contact us on 08456 07 55 55 for some instant guidance.
Before you begin your application, you will need to check your eligibility.
You can view full details of entry requirements here.
You will also need to know whether you want to join us as an Officer or a Rating.
Find out more about joining as a Rating here.
Find out more about joining as an Officer here.
When you are ready to get started, call our team on 08456 07 55 55 to arrange an appointment with a Careers Advisor.
Alternatively, use the forms on this website to let us know you are interested.
Request more information here.
If you are having problems with the on line form please let us now by using the form Comment on the Website
You can download more information here:Procedures and Practice Test Booklet
Pre-joining Fitness Programme


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Since 1974, Spanish company Salvador Escoda has grown into a powerhouse of supply products for air conditioning, ventilation, heating, water, renewable energy, gas, electricity, refrigeration and isolation.
This year, Camfil and Salvador Escoda reached an agreement to provide quality Camfil products in their supply stores for the filter segment, air pollution control segment and industrial air cleaners. Salvador Escoda is the largest distribution company in Spain with a large portfolio from their suppliers and more than 70 selling points.
"Since Camfil acquired Servifiltro, we are able to provide good delivery times in Spain. It is clear that Camfil is the best brand in filtration systems," Javier Torrón of Camfil Spain said. "Camfil's range of products in filtration is the largest too. Camfil Spain will have the main distribution of air conditioning products in Spain with this agreement."
The punctuality and the efficiency of the shipments from Salvador Escoda are guaranteed by three, big, logistic warehouses (approx. 10,000 m2 each) and their numerous selling points.
"We will have a much bigger presence in all of the Spanish area," Torrón said. "We currently have some difficulties reaching some areas where there are fewer clients, but now all the clients from these areas will have Camfil there to help and service their equipment much easier."
Salvador Escoda staffs more than 500 people with more than 25,000 customers and is recognized as the sole distribution for Spain with more than 55 international brands. In turn, Camfil will create an internal department to assist Salvador Escoda. In order for a customer to learn more about products and services, this department will create a direct connection to Camfil employees.
"Camfil will be in the back-end of every order and project," Torrón said. "It's important for our customers to know that after they place an order for filters to Salvador Escoda, Camfil guarantees to be present which means the highest quality present."
For more than half a century, Camfil has been helping people breathe cleaner air. As a leading manufacturer of premium clean air solutions, we provide commercial and industrial systems for air filtration and air pollution control that improve worker and equipment productivity, minimize energy use, and benefit human health and the environment. We firmly believe that the best solutions for our customers are the best solutions for our planet, too. That's why every step of the way – from design to delivery and across the product life cycle – we consider the impact of what we do on people and on the world around us. Through a fresh approach to problem-solving, innovative design, precise process control and a strong customer focus we aim to conserve more, use less and find better ways – so we can all breathe easier.
The Camfil Group is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, and has 28 manufacturing sites, six R&D centres, local sales offices in 26 countries, and 4,180 employees and growing. We proudly serve and support customers in a wide variety of industries and in communities across the world. To discover how Camfil can help you to protect people, processes and the environment, visit us at www.camfil.com.
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Here comes a real banger from one of our favorite artists at the moment and Bamford Watch Department. Wes Lang teamed up with Bamford on a capsule collection of custom Rolex watches, adding his unique artistic take to the beautiful watches.
The collection features a bi-color Rolex GMT-Master II, a Rolex Submariner and a Rolex Milgauss. This kind of collaboration and especially this kind of artistic treatment on a watch, can in our opinion go very wrong very quickly. In general we are not big fans of engraved watch details, especially not when it goes beyond some initials or that kind of thing. Yet we have to admit that they got the balance perfectly right. The black on black engraved Wes Lang art turned out beautiful and definitely adds an entire new layer to the already beautiful watches. The bi-color we find hard to pull off, but the Submariner and the Milgauss both look stunning.
The Wes Lang x Bamford Watch Department Custom Rolex's will release exclusively today at 7:30pm at Dover Street Market in London. Good luck getting your hands on one of these.
- Source: Bamford Watch Department


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Monday, September 27, 2010
Empire Records
36 comments:
- scorpiusdiamond said...
I love the fact you guys didn't even think of sticking up a 'donate' button and gave us all these wonderful things instead.
Americy is gonna be lucky to have you.
And I'mma be lucky to have the Wichitenny goodness.
- September 28, 2010 at 10:37 PM
- dfkjimmy said...
fucking HATE companies like this. they make me want to become a terrorist and bomb the fucking music industry. fucking full on bellends.
- September 28, 2010 at 11:11 PM
i have £10 to last me a month but i just gave it to you guys (well, gave isn't the right word...acquired products) because this all sounds vaguely heartbreaking. times like these suck and if it counts for much, i am, and always have been, at a total loss for words for how much your music means to me.
i didn't mean this to sound like an obituary! i sincerely, from the bottom of my heart, hope that these issues are resolved. you guys always put 110% into everything so i have faith.
(ps. i have this huge basket of asda smart price "curry" noodles, i'm not gonna starve)
- September 28, 2010 at 11:40 PM
Shit guys, this sucks. Buying all I can right now. Hope you get everything. P.S. I can drive, and I've always wanted to see America...
- September 29, 2010 at 6:15 AM
- Stef Has Headphones said...
Good luck guys, just bought all of the things on offer, I really hope you manage this ok, keep on at that company! Fuck, go knock on their doors (if they're fairly close by)
- September 29, 2010 at 7:32 AM
- Ben said...
I don't even listen to your music, i noticed this on a friends facebook and i feel sorry for you, when i get paid i will be purchasing the complete set.
- September 29, 2010 at 9:32 AM
Strictly for the TLDR I want to buy stuff. But I am in America.... And planning to see you on the tour.... I can haz merch?
- September 29, 2010 at 1:19 PM
- JaneInMA said...
Can you create a option in bandcamp to buy multiple eps at once? every time folks in the US buy stuff in pounds we get hit by a surcharge by our banks and we would prefer that money stayed with you.
- September 29, 2010 at 2:50 PM
- Steve McKay said...
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text:
An office in Cleveland County has its �eyes� on residents across the area.
SHELBY � An office in Cleveland County has its �eyes� on residents across the area.
Shelby Optometric recently opened on North Lafayette Street, near Cleveland Pines Nursing Center.
Dr. Troy Tevis has practiced optometry for 12 years. About 10,000 patients are registered at his office located in Rutherfordton.
Service in the U.S. Army sparked Tevis� interest in examining eyes. He was a flight school student, sometimes flying at night with night vision goggles enhancing his sight.
�There, we learned about how the eye worked. It sparked my interest,� he said.
Free eye glasses are offered to new patients at the Shelby location.
Patients with Medicare, Medicaid and other qualifying insurances are welcomed to the offer.
Tevis� office also provides full contact lens services and can assist clients with eye issues related to glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and other eye-related diseases.
A full staff, including Tevis, will work at the new location. Clients can visit the Shelby location during the afternoon hours, Monday through Thursday.
�This is a growing part of the state. We�re happy to help people out,� he said.
Reach reporter Alicia Banks at 704-669-3338, email at firstname.lastname@example.com and follow on Twitter @TheStarAlicia.
Shelby Optometric
- Where: 1415 North Lafayette St., Shelby
- Hours: 1-5 p.m. Monday through Thursday
-Free glasses to new adult patients with Medicare, Medicaid and other qualifying insurances
- Contact Shelby Optometric at 704-487-7301 for more information.


text:
Dr. David Klooster of the Hope College English faculty died on Saturday, June 2, at age 58. Cause of death was a brain tumor.
A professor of English, he had been a member of the Hope faculty since 2000. Through the years, his tenure at the college had also included serving as chairperson of the department of English and as faculty moderator.
His scholarly interests included American literature, especially of the 19th century; composition; pedagogy; literature of the American Civil War; American conversion narratives; American travel narratives; and the work of Nathaniel Hawthorne and Herman Melville.
For several years, he was actively involved as a volunteer, with his wife, Dr. Patricia Bloem, with the Reading and Writing for Critical Thinking Project (RWCT), an international effort to use reading and writing to help students become better democratic citizens. He presented collaborative workshops and seminars for educators in multiple nations, including Armenia, China, Russia, Liberia, Turkey and the Czech Republic.
He and Bloem, along with Dr. Jeannie Steele, co-edited the 2000 book "Ideas Without Boundaries: International Education Reform Through Reading and Writing for Critical Thinking," which describes the program.
Klooster was twice the recipient of awards through the Fulbright Program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. He won a Fulbright Scholar award to teach and conduct research at the University of Klagenfurt, Austria, in 2005, and was a Fulbright Fellow at Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia, in 1992 93.
He had received a Ruth and John Reed Faculty Achievement Award from Hope in 2008. He was featured in the Hope alumni magazine "News from Hope College" in December 2009, and in a profile in the "Hope People" section of the college's 2004-05 catalog.
In addition to "Ideas Without Boundaries," his books included "The Writer's Community" (1995), which he co-authored with Bloem; and "Phantoms of a Blood-Stained Period: The Complete Civil War Writings of Ambrose Bierce" (2002), which he co-edited with Russell Duncan.
Prior to coming to Hope, Klooster was a member of the English faculty at John Carroll University in Ohio, where his responsibilities had included directing the writing program for 11 years. He had also taught at DePauw University in Indiana, from 1984 to 1989.
He graduated from Calvin College in 1975 with majors in English and philosophy. He completed his Master of Arts degree at the University of Chicago in 1976, and doctorate at Boston College in 1985.
Visitation will be held Friday, June 8 from 7-9 pm at Dykstra's funeral home, 295 Douglas Ave, Holland MI. A memorial service will be Saturday, June 9 at 10 a.m. at Dimnent Chapel at Hope College.


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The fact that the PowerShot SX260 HS digital camera is an ultra-slim camera with a powerful 20x Optical Zoom, Optical Image Stabilization and 25mm Wide-Angle lens is only the beginning of its attractions. The fact that the PowerShot SX260 HS digital camera is an ultra-slim camera with a powerful 20x Optical Zoom, Optical Image Stabilization and 25mm Wide-Angle lens is only the beginning of its attractions. You'll see detail you never thought possible through the huge zoom and wide-angle lens, while the camera's 12.1 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor deliver the rich, clear low-light performance that is the hallmark of Canon's HS SYSTEM. 1080p Full HD video in stereo is more beautiful than ever, with new high-resolution, high-speed processing. Sophisticated advancements include improved Smart AUTO that optimizes settings for 58 predefined shooting situations, Face ID that prioritizes pre-registered faces, and GPS for tracking and recording your shooting locations.
Astonishingly Slim.Canon's powerful 20x Optical Zoom and 25mm Wide-Angle lens with Optical Image Stabilization delivers stunning images from up close or at a distance. Ultra-slim Camera with powerful 20x Optical Zoom, Optical Image Stabilization and 25mm Wide-Angle Lens
At just over 1 1/4 inches thick, the PowerShot SX260 HS is an ultra-slim digital camera with a powerful 20x Optical Zoom. But because its lens embodies the quality and legacy of Genuine Canon Optics, its advantages go far beyond making the camera slim enough to slip in your pocket and carry anywhere. With a range of 25mm - 500mm (35mm equivalent), the lens gives you the power to capture the full breadth of scenes, with details you've never captured before. Images are bright and vivid with spectacular clarity thanks to Optical Image Stabilization.
Optical Image StabilizerHandheld shooting can often lead to camera shake, making photos and videos blurry. Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer is a sophisticated system that uses lens-shift technology to correct for unwanted camera movement. It makes handheld photography more practical, providing excellent image quality in many difficult shooting situations: outdoors at dusk, inside without a flash, and even at the telephoto end of the zoom range without a tripod. For photos, it enables shooting at slower shutter speeds, accommodating more low-light shooting situations than ever before without having to boost ISO sensitivity. With camera shake and vibration reduced, you get a sharper, steadier image. And because it is an optical system, there is none of the image degradation typical with electronic image stabilizers.
UA Lens TechnologyPioneered by Canon, UA Lens technology makes possible compact lenses with remarkable optical performance. By using molded glass with an ultra-high refractive index in aspherical lens elements, Canon has succeeded in reducing lens size while significantly reducing image aberrations. Another stellar example of cutting-edge Canon optics, UA Lens technology helps make PowerShot digital cameras pocket-friendly and capable of astounding image quality.
Experience the Power.A 12.1 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor combined with the DIGIC 5 Image Processor creates Canon's HS SYSTEM for outstanding low-light performance.
The Canon HS SYSTEM lets you take bright, clear photos in an even wider range of shooting situations. Beautiful low-light shots are possible with minimal noise and maximum detail in highlight and shadow areas. The system is the result of two technologies brought together in PowerShot cameras: a high-sensitivity imaging sensor, which is able to capture more light; and the DIGIC 5 Image Processor, which actively reduces noise with high-speed image processing. The 12.1 Megapixel Canon CMOS sensor in the PowerShot SX260 HS incorporates advanced light reception technology that enhances sensitivity. The DIGIC 5 Image Processor provides a major boost in noise reduction, expanding the usable ISO range to an amazing high of ISO 3200. The Canon HS SYSTEM thus lets you use higher shutter speeds to capture clearer images with reduced noise and blur.
Canon DIGIC 5 Image ProcessorThe latest-generation Canon DIGIC 5 Image Processor brings phenomenal increases in processing speed and power. Improved chip architecture and algorithms deliver greatly expanded functionality with further refinement in image quality. Improved noise reduction produces clearer images when shooting in low light at high ISO speeds. Enhanced i-Contrast performance adjusts differences between light and dark areas to achieve even more natural-looking results. The faster processing speed also results in faster continuous shooting capability while maintaining full image quality. The DIGIC 5 Image Processor also makes possible a new, highly advanced automatic white balance system. Whereas conventional white balance makes an overall adjustment based on a single type of light source, the new Canon Multi-Area White Balance analyzes several areas of the image to determine whether different adjustments are needed, for example, for the main subject and the background.
Memorable Moments in Spectacular Full HDShoot beautiful 1080p Full HD video in stereo sound with a dedicated movie button; zoom while shooting and play back videos on an HDTV via the HDMI output. Canon Full HD Video Advantage
In addition to the Canon HS SYSTEM, the combination of the advanced CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor in the PowerShot SX260 HS makes it possible to shoot crisp, clear high definition video. Imagine the fun and excitement of being able to shoot spectacular 1080p Full HD video with stereo sound that you can later watch on your HDTV or download to your computer to share with family and friends. In addition to being able to shoot Full HD 1080p video at 24* frames per second, the PowerShot SX260 HS can also shoot 720p HD video at 30** frames per second.*Actual frame rate is 23.976 fps.**Actual frame rate is 29.97 fps.
Dedicated Movie Button, Wind filter feature and Optical Zoom for easy video captureIt's never been easier to shoot videos with a PowerShot digital camera. The PowerShot SX260 HS has a dedicated movie button that lets you start and stop recording instantly. There is no need to go through layers of menus or operate switches or dials to switch to and from video recording mode. The camera is always ready to shoot stills or video whenever you want. The PowerShot SX260 HS also incorporates an electronic wind filter, which suppresses wind noise that can muffle or distort the sound. And unlike less sophisticated point-and-shoot cameras, the PowerShot SX260 HS lets you use the full range of optical zoom when you're shooting a video.
HDTV playback via HDMI output and CECIt's easy to enjoy and share the videos you shoot with the PowerShot SX260 HS. Simply connect its HDMI terminal to your HDTV using an HDMI cable. And because the PowerShot SX260 HS supports HDMI-CEC technology, you'll be able to control the playback of your images and videos on any CEC-enabled HDTV using the TV's remote control. (CEC - Consumer Electronic Control - is part of the HDMI specification, enabling components in a system to communicate with one another.)
iFrameWith the PowerShot SX260 HS, you can also shoot video in the Apple? iFrame format, which is a computer-friendly standard that speeds up importing and editing of videos. It keeps file sizes small, making it more convenient to upload or e-mail high-quality videos. The iFrame format enjoys native support in compatible Mac and Windows video applications, making it unnecessary to perform time-consuming and often quality-degrading conversions.
A Smarter Camera Means Better Photos and Videos.Improved Smart AUTO intelligently selects the proper camera settings based on 58 predefined shooting situations and the new Face ID function adjusts focus and exposure priority based on pre-registered faces. Smart AUTO
Smart AUTO for the PowerShot SX260 HS has been significantly expanded, making it easier than ever to capture the sharp, bright, colorful images ? and videos ? you?re looking for. By assessing various factors in both the background and the subject, the system recognizes 58 predefined shooting situations and automatically selects the camera settings that will yield the best possible results. Simply frame the shot you want, and in dozens of common or challenging scenarios the camera takes care of the rest. Hard-to-capture shots such as moving subjects, night scenes, backlit subjects, and landscapes at evening or on a bright snowy day are instantly and effortlessly captured as "keeper" shots. Smart AUTO makes the PowerShot SX260 HS ideal for capturing excellent quality still images and video on the go.
A Steady Image Is a Beautiful Image.Intelligent IS automatically chooses from six different modes to optimize image stabilization for the shooting condition. Intelligent IS
The latest advance in Canon Optical Image Stabilization technology, Intelligent IS analyzes camera movement and applies the best shake correction method for the shooting situation. For stills, the system automatically selects among Normal, Panning, Macro (Hybrid) and Tripod IS modes. When shooting video, the system automatically selects among Dynamic, Powered, Macro and Tripod IS modes. With Intelligent IS, you can concentrate on image capture, letting the camera make the most effective IS settings to assure the steadiest possible image.
The Ideal Traveling Companion.Remember where you were when your pictures were taken with a GPS tracker to record your location, and a logger to view the locations on a map via Canon's software. GPS Technology
The PowerShot SX260 HS digital camera is equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS)* technology. Now you can travel the world and let the camera automatically record the locations and local times of your stills and videos. The camera can also use the GPS unit to automatically set the exact time. You can maximize the usefulness of the GPS feature by using the special bundled Map Utility software that makes it fun to share the memories of your world adventures. In addition to displaying all your photos' locations on a world map, the camera's GPS system can also track your route from photo to photo - a great way to visualize each trip! You can also create and share custom maps and personal mini-travel guides with friends and family members.
*In certain countries and regions, the use of GPS may be restricted. Therefore, be sure to use GPS in accordance with the laws and regulations of your country or region. Be particularly careful when traveling outside your home country.As a signal is received from GPS satellites, take sufficient measures when using in locations where the use of electronics is regulated.
This software uses Google Maps for displaying maps.
Versatile Still and Video Shooting Options.High-Speed Burst HQ allows for continuous capture at a maximum of 10 frames* while maintaining superb image quality and Super Slow Motion movie records video at high speeds to allow playback in slow motion. High-Speed Burst HQ
Utilizing the increased processing speed and power of the new Canon DIGIC 5 Image Processor, High-Speed Burst HQ makes it possible to capture fast action stills at full resolution during continuous shooting. The results are exceptionally high-quality images recorded in rapid sequence. In this mode, the PowerShot SX260 HS can capture a maximum of 10 shots in a single burst.*
Turn Your Memories into a Highlights Reel.Improved Movie Digest records a short 720p HD video clip right before shooting a photo and then combines one day's worth of clips into one video. 720p Movie Digest
With the PowerShot SX260 HS digital camera, capturing trips and special occasions with a high-quality video "highlights reel" is as easy as switching on the Movie Digest feature. When activated, the feature automatically records the four seconds before each still shot as video, then auto-edits them into a short movie. Played back together, the video clips capture the mood and ambiance of special days in a way that?s completely different from still images, both documenting the creation of still images and providing a unique stand-alone memory preserver. New with the PowerShot SX260 HS, the video is captured in 720p high definition so that it looks smooth and beautifully detailed when played back on your HDTV. With bundled software ImageBrowser EX, you can easily delete any scenes you don't want.
Dimensions (L X W X H): 2.90" x 5.60" x 6.20"
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text:
DETROIT - A group of crocheters known as the 'Happy Hookers' will help to keep homeless people in Detroit warm this winter by providing them with scarves.
The Happy Hookers have teamed up with Detroit Central City Community Mental Health, Inc. (DCC) to raise awareness about the needs of the homeless population. DCC provides health care, housing and substance abuse services to people in Wayne County.
The Happy Hookers and DCC are holding an event Saturday, January 5 to help collect clothing for homeless Detroiters. The Happy Hookers will drape a knitted scarf around the Passo di Danzo statue on Woodward Avenue. The scarves were knitted and crocheted by Local 4 News Director Christina Larson and the rest of the Happy Hookers group. They combined individual scarves into one large scarf, which can be separated and distributed to the DCC.
Other community members can join the efforts by donating scarves, gloves, hats and other winter gear. Donations can be turned into a drop-off box at The Fountain Bistro, located at 800 Woodward in Detroit.
Below is a list of drop off hours:
Monday - Thursday from 11:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.
Friday & Saturday from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 a.m.
Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
For more information about the Happy Hookers, click here.
Copyright 2013 by ClickOnDetroit.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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HOW: Use the new national standardized labels on your recycling bins to: 1) reduce confusion at the bin, 2) increase your capture rates, 3) reduce the contamination entering the recycling stream, and 4) to reduce your expenses.
To learn where to dispose of hazardous materials, such as paint, chemicals, medicine, electronics, CFLs, batteries, etc. click here.
WHY: According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (Sept 2010) less than 35% of households and less than 10% of businesses recycle. When the number of people recycling reaches 75%, it will be the equivalent of removing 50 million cars from the road in the United States each year, it will generate 1.5 million new jobs and it will reduce U.S. carbon emissions by 276 million metric tons by 2030. And recycling limits additional use of natural resources therefore preserving our water, trees, soil and energy. Nearly every person, family and business can recycle. Recycling is one of the most important and visible actions we can do for the environment.
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF RECYCLING: Recycling can reduce the frequency and the volume of garbage hauling therefore reducing the the landfill taxes that each home owner and business pays. Recycling incurs no taxes and the costs of both recycling and hauling combined is often measurably less than garbage services without recycling. National and global studies (Gallup, Good Purpose, Tandberg) reveal more than 85% of consumers state they will switch companies or products to support ones that are more environmentally and socially responsible, if given the opportunity. Since 'green' is a market share issue, recycling is a great way to publicly & visually demonstrate that your organization cares. Use the standardized labels on your recycling bins to capture the most amount of materials to reduce your landfill related expenses. Last but not least, Cone Research and others (2007), found that 92% of employees surveyed have an increased positive image of the company they work for when it practices environmentally and socially responsible initiatives such as recycling. Improved employee relations has been found to decrease employee turnover. Another bottom-line measurement.
RECYCLING CASE STUDY: Waste reduction agencies and consultants have helped many small and large businesses reduce their waste expenses by 35% or more each month. Additionally for food related industries, there are grease/oil, organic and food waste recycling service providers that will sometimes pay for a company's food related waste or provide additional hauling savings. Once a company has made the decision to recycle, they often have a greater awareness of their overall waste stream and find opportunities to reduce over-usage and unnecessary waste, which in turn reduces front-end expenses.
2 separate trashcans in my kitchen!
WHY: According to ENERGY STAR, energy efficient fluorescent lighting reduces CO2 emissions up to 75% compared to incandescent lighting. LED lighting can reduce CO2 emissions nearly 95%. If each household changed one incandescent light bulb to compact fluorescent, it would be the environmental equivalent of removing one million cars off the road. To learn more about how to choose Energy Star rated lighting, click on the Energy Star logo.
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF ENERGY STAR PREFERRED LIGHTING: ENERGY STAR qualified bulbs use about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs; last up to 10 times longer; saves about $30 or more in electricity costs over each bulb's lifetime; produces about 75 percent less heat, making them safer to operate as well as decreases energy costs associated with cooling. High efficiency light bulbs are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, allowing them to fit almost any fixture, both for indoor and outdoor use.
A small business with less than 1,000 square feet can save upwards of $2,000 in energy costs when they improve their lighting. Larger corporations are saving upwards of hundreds of thousands of dollars by making lighting improvements. Many states and energy companies are offering rebates and refunds for businesses that are installing high-efficiency lighting. These rebates and refunds will not be available forever so make sure you take advantage of the opportunities that currently exist.
PROPERLY DISPOSING OF FLUORESCENT LIGHT BULBS: Please click on the ENERGY STAR logo to learn about proper disposal and recycling of fluorescent bulbs and tubes and to learn about the risks associated with mercury.
HOW: Install an Energy Star rated programmable thermostat and set the heat at 68 degrees in the winter and set the air conditioning to 78 degrees in the summer. During times when no one is home or everyone is asleep (such as 'at work' hours and sleep hours) program the thermostat to approximately 64 degrees in the winter and 82 in the summer.
WHY: Less need for heating and air conditioning during non-occupancy or sleep times can have a dramatic measurable impact on the environment. And this simple change doesn't require additional effort after installing the thermostat. Set properly each season, ENERGY STAR rated programmable thermostats are effortless environment savers.
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTATS: Managing your heating and air conditioning with programmable Energy Star rated thermostats and setting your temperatures for greatest energy efficiency during peak and non-peak hours can save your home 15% or more in overall energy costs. Installing and properly maintaining high efficiency Energy Star rated furnaces, air conditioners and appliances can save your home hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year.
Im not home very much and i try not to use air conditioning when possible.
HOW: To learn how to shut down your computer system and use computer power management devices, click on the Energy Star logo below.
WHY: 500 computers set to hibernate after 5 min during production times and shut down completely during non-working hours will prevent 72.5 tonnes of CO2 from emitting. (It takes 51,000 adult trees to offset 72.5 tonnes of CO2 ).
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF HIBERNATING/SHUTTING DOWN COMPUTERS: The above scenario would reduce the business's energy bill $24,000/yr ($.10/kwh).
As much as possible. Hard to shut down all hard drives in my home studio.
HOW: Maintain all plumbing to prevent drips and leaks. Install low-flow/high-pressure faucets, toilets and spigots throughout your home. Limit your shower time to 6 minutes or less. Unless you're using the water at each moment, shut it off. For instance: While you have your toothbrush in your mouth brushing your teeth, shut the water off; while you're lathering your hair with shampoo or conditioner, or washing yourself, shut the water off until you're ready to rinse. When watering your lawn or garden, do so in the evening when the water isn't as likely to evaporate due to the sun. Use the water only as you need it. Purchase appliances that are certified to reduce water usage above and beyond other appliances. Use faucets and shower fixtures that are high pressure and low-flow. For more information about water flow standards for residential and commercial, click here.
WHY: One dripping faucet can waste 2,000 gallons a year. The Environmental Protection Agency reports that at least 36 of the 50 states will experience local, regional or statewide water shortage by 2013. Each day the average American spends 100 to 176 gallons of water. In many countries people survive on less than 5 gallons per day. Look for all of the ways you can conserve this precious natural resource at home, at work or when you're out and about.
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF MAINTAINING PLUMBING & CHOOSING EFFICIENT FIXTURES: Maintaining plumbing to prevent drips, leaks and running toilets can help you save the expense of: wasted water, increasingly problematic plumbing and related issues such as damaged sheet rock, structural decay, tile, mold, health issues... Consider installing low flow/high pressure fixtures to conserve the water and your dollars even more; the rate of return is generally quick and worth the investment. Don't forget to recycle old plumbing fixtures and hardware. Look for opportunities throughout your home to be more water-wise. You'll be amazed at the opportunities to save water and money.
HOW: Here are four websites to help you instantly remove your name from unwanted mail lists and phone book distribution:
WHY: More than 100 million trees worth of bulk (or junk) mail is received each year in the U.S. That's the equivalent of deforesting the entire Rocky Mountain National Park every four months. And most often the unwanted mail is never opened or looked at.
THE FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF REDUCING/ELIMINATING UNWANTED MAIL: The services that help you remove its name from unwanted mailing lists can help you save time spent handling or opening unwanted mail and will save you expenses related to disposal or recycling the mail, especially heavy catalogs and phone books.
HOW: Choose paper for your printer, copiers, fax machines that is manufacturer with post consumer recycled paper. Most office supply stores carry 100% recycled paper. Also, choose napkins, toilet paper, paper towels made from recycled paper (choose paper products that haven't been bleached white). And use cloth rags for cleaning when appropriate versus paper products. Try to go paperless as much as possible by choosing e-bills and making your payments and transactions online.
WHY: On average it requires 60% less energy to produce paper from recycled stock than from virgin materials. Producing one ton of virgin paper requires 20 trees and 7,000 more gallons of water than one ton of 100% recycled paper. Recycle and purchase products manufactured with recycled materials to: 1) close the loop, 2) to improve the economics of recycling and next-life manufacturing and, 3) to maximize the environmental benefits of recycling. For more environmental and economic statistics about recycling paper and purchasing recycled paper, click here.
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF CHOOSING POST CONSUMER RECYCLED PAPER PRODUCTS: Work toward 'paperless' to offset the sometimes higher costs of post consumer recycled paper and to also reduce the expense of toners, ink, equipment, repairs, and disposal. When possible, double-side the paper used in your printers, copy and fax machines and look for equipment that provides that feature automatically. The more that society 1) recycles, 2) purchases products manufactured with recycled content and, 3) reduces waste, the more that the marketplace and everyone will benefit financially with more affordable environmental choices and reduced expenses related to waste.
HOW: When getting around town, consider biking, walking or using public transportation when available. If you do need to use a car, consider car-pooling and/or choosing a low CO2 vehicle if possible. Also, telecommuting (aka working from home) is also a great way to reduce or eliminate CO2 emissions and often reduces traffic and commuting-related stress; if possible, ask your employer if it is possible to work from home. To compare low CO2 transportation options, click here.
WHY: The Department of Health, Education and Welfare has estimated that automobiles account for approximately 48% of the carbon monoxide, 32% of the nitrogen oxides, and 59% of the hydrocarbons in the atmosphere. None of which are good for our environment or our health. A bus with as few as seven passengers is more fuel efficient than the average automobile used for commuting. The fuel efficiency of a fully-occupied bus is six times greater than that of the average commuter's automobile, while the fuel efficiency of a fully-occupied rail car is fifteen times greater than that of the average commuter's automobile. A single person who commutes via a transit system instead of driving alone will save 200 gallons of gasoline per year. A 10% nationwide increase in transit ridership would save 135 million gallons of gasoline per year. This fuel efficiency results in personal savings and in a cleaner environment for all.
A car occupied by one person produces on average 2.06 grams/passenger-mile (g/pm) of nitrogen oxides for work trips. A fully occupied transit bus on the other hand, produces approximately 1.54 g/pm, while a fully occupied rail transit system produces only .47 g/pm for the same distance. Similarly, the car occupied by one person produces 15.06 g/pm of carbon monoxide and 2.09 g/pm of hydrocarbons. The bus produces 3.05 g/pm and .2 g/pm of the same pollutants, respectively. From an environmental point of view, trains and electric powered mass-transit is the best form of motorized transportation. While of course, walking and biking are the ultimate forms of transportation for our health and our environment.
Choosing fuel efficient cars ... If each car in the U.S. had improved mileage by 2.7 mpg, we would eliminate our dependency entirely from Persian Gulf oil.
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF NON-MOTORIZED OR LOW CO2 TRANSPORTATION: Biking, walking, mass transit and carpooling are all ways to significantly reduce the cost of transportation. Less fuel costs, less insurance costs and less wear and tear on your car. And biking or walking promotes a healthier lifestyle and consequently less costs related to illnesses. There are often financial incentives available to companies and employees from health insurance providers who recognize the importance of regular exercise. Check with your employer about incentives for low CO2 transportation choices (discounts on bus/train passes, biking incentives, carpooling incentives, etc). If your company does not have these types of incentives, ask them to consider creating a low CO2 incentive program for employees.
HOW: Test your water for drinking quality. If the results show that your home has good quality drinking water than use reusable water bottles (preferably aluminum) for water on the go. For drinking water on hand, keep a picture of water in your refrigerator so it is chilled and ready to drink. To order a do it yourself test kit for your water, click here. If your water tests show that your water should be filtered for drinking water, consider the options that provide the most savings and the highest drinking quality. To learn more about filtration options and comparisons, click here.
WHY: Americans throw away 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour. If you are going to purchase plastic bottled water, make sure you recycle it. Five plastic bottles (PET) recycled provides enough fiber to create one square feet of carpet or enough fiber fill to fill one ski jacket. Recycling one ton of plastic bottles saves the equivalent energy usage of a two person household for one year.
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF ELIMINATING PLASTIC BOTTLED WATER: Depending on how much bottled water you currently purchase, you could save significant amounts of money by no longer purchasing bottled water and instead using filtered or tap water, which is usually less than 1% of the cost of bottle water.
i try to not use plastic bottles when possible.
HOW: Choose products that are natural and organic whenever possible. If natural and organic isn't an option, choose the greenest alternative without compromising effectiveness and quality. Choose products and service companies that have earned environmental certifications. Here is a link to an article about various certifications: Certification definitions and links.
ASK THE COMPANIES AND BUSINESSES YOU SUPPORT TO CREATE AN ECO-PROFILE: Ask the companies you support to complete an Eco-Profile to display what actions they are doing environmentally and certifications they have earned. Choose companies that are greening their operations and being transparent in their actions. Currently less than 10% of businesses in the US recycle. If more businesses and organizations have requests from their customers to complete an Eco-Profile, more businesses will begin 'greening' their operations.
WHY: By increasing usage and demand of sustainable, natural and/or organic products we reduce dependence on non-renewable resources which tend to be harmful in their production and cause numerous harmful by-products. Organic and natural products have been shown in a number of studies to contain more vitamins, nutrients and cancer-fighting antioxidants than processed or synthetically enhanced ingredients. These products are good for the environment and good for our health.
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF SUSTAINABLE, ORGANIC, RENEWABLE, NATURAL PRODUCTS: There are increasing demands for healthier products and that demand is making the prices for such products more competitive. The market for 'greener' products is increasing faster than any other category in the marketplace. The future of our economy will reside with a balance between "good for the environment and good for the pocket-book". With the advancement of this emerging 'green' industry comes new jobs and a reduced reliance on off-shore suppliers ... while never losing sight of the global economy. It is the quintessential sustainable economic stimulus package of our time, if we capture it.
Wild Harvest products are produced without preservatives or manufactured enhancers, you'll never find an unpronounceable word in their ingredients. Wild Harvest's wide selection of products are created with one philosophy in mind - simply food ... natural, delicious and affordable. Organic Farming means moving away from synthetic pesticides and herbicides and towards natural, sustainable agriculture. Organic foods help sustain small farms and safeguard the environment by protecting the earth's soil and preserving water quality. Soil fed with organic matter produces healthy, nutrient-rich plants. Naturally, flavor would follow.
Click on the logos below to learn more about organics, sustainable and renewable products:
and i try to eat organic too!
HOW: Create your Eco-Profile and then using the "Share button" in the upper left column, share your Eco-Profile on your social sites and ask your friends/followers/fans/co-workers/employer/family and business relationships to also create their Eco-Profiles. By doing so your EcoTree of Progress will display how many individuals and organizations you have inspired.
WHY: Encouraging the businesses that you support to meet this baseline creates exponential environmental progress in every regard. Mainstreaming these basic actions will measurably improve our impact on the environment and prepare us for the next level of progress. The current disorganization and chaos of 'green' is hindering progress, therefore getting society on the same page by doing some of the same simple actions and communicating those actions will bring exponential environmental progress.
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF INSPIRING OTHERS: Green is a market share issue. In multiple studies such as Cone Research, Gallup, GoodPurpose, Tandberg, 85% of consumers surveyed stated they will switch companies or products to support ones that are more environmentally and socially responsible if given the opportunity.
The challenge has been, consumers have no way of knowing which companies are environmentally progressive and which ones aren't, until now.
I definitely support good businesses and we try to be a conscious touring band.
HOW: Contact your local energy company to learn how you can have an energy audit of your home. Your local energy company can provide ways to conduct a self-audit on your home and look for easy opportunities to reduce CO2 emissions include replacing seals around doors and windows, cleaning the furnace and air conditioning filters. Greater CO2 savings can be maximized with increased insulation, replacing faulty windows and doors, replacing older appliances and heating/air conditioning equipment with ENERGY STAR rated equipment. To learn more about home energy audits, click on the Energy Star logo below.
WHY: If each home received an audit and implemented minor changes, the US could reduce national CO2 emissions by 25% or more.
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF HAVING AN ENERGY AUDIT: Energy audits often detect energy saving opportunities that haven't been realized by homeowners and can often find energy savings in excess of 15-20%. Many energy specialists and auditors have access to information that homeowners may not be aware of such as rebates, refunds, grants, and federal assistance to make improvements. These opportunities will not exist forever so it is important for homeowners to take advantage of them while they are available. Check with your local energy company for more information relating to audits, incentives and rebates.
HOW: Determine what cause you would like to donate to, i.e: environment, children, health, poverty, arts, disabilities, etc. Then determine where you would like to contribute i.e., your local community, regionally, nationally, globally or another specific country. Also determine how you would like to contribute i.e., money only, volunteering only, goods only or a combination of all of those gifts. Perform an online search using the criteria that you've just established and enjoy the process of learning about the charities you are researching. If you intend to contribute a sizable amount to a non-profit, ask to speak with the Executive Director of the non-profits that you are considering to get a full sense of what their organization is doing and what the impact of their efforts are. Ask the organization to share measurable goals of their efforts and how they intend to use your contributions. To research charities use tools such as Charity Navigator.
WHY: Giving through donations of cash, goods and/or time generates a win not only for the benefactor and the community it serves, but often also creates exponential progress by setting a precedence for others to give. Expanding the culture of giving and contributing to society, lends itself to a healthier and more productive society all together.
It's a good thing to put on the rose-colored glasses as your guide every once and a while to see what you want the world to be. Each person, regardless of their size, age, gender, color, ethnicity, education, financial status, professional status or geographic area, has the ability to change the world ... one smile, one word, one hug, one act of kindness, or one act of heroism at a time.
Each moment we interact with people and the world around us we have an opportunity to create a positive, simple, selfless experience that can have exponential effects, often leaving others elevated and conduits to "pass it on". Simple acts of respect, courtesy, compassion and integrity practiced daily with your family, your neighbors, your friends, your co-workers and strangers, can go a long way and has the ability to change the world in bite-size pieces. These simple acts are often under-valued and forgotten about. In other words, you don't always have to take out the checkbook or donate your time in order to make a difference. If each of us made a conscious effort to apply the golden rule without condition, and to break hurtful and harmful habits, improvement will come quickly. And the beauty is ... when you begin to consistently apply the golden rule with others (even strangers) those actions have just as much positive impact on you, your day and your life as it does on the benefactor. With the golden rule, don't pick an audience ... apply it to everyone, even those that you have preconceived notions about. Live it, display it and teach it to your children.
For those who can afford the time and/or money to go above and beyond that daily code of conduct, there are many options for giving. Pick your passion ... focus on the category of life you'd like to improve and go for it, using whatever means you can afford. Use the Charity guides to learn how about all of your choices and determine which organization is best to help you achieve your "giving goals".
FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF GIVING: Speak with your account about tax write-offs and deductions of your contributions. The golden rule is the most valuable asset all of us can employ in our lives ... It's free and often it is reciprocated beyond your wildest imagination. Also a great combatant to depression or loneliness is reaching out and volunteering time or services to help others less fortunate than you.
Not much free time while on tour this year...
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|Next Event: LaVelle Vineyards Benefit Concert
|Home | Events | Links & Resources | Support M.E.M.A. | Musicians | Sponsors | Volunteer | Contact
MOST MUSICIANS DONT HAVE HEALTH CARE COVERAGE for either themselves or their families, as their incomes are usually near the federal poverty level. The mission of MEMA is to stabilize and improve the quality of life of people in the entertainment industry. When bills are piling up, due to health issues in the family, MEMA can help. Utilizing our status as a "non-profit group", MEMA can also provide access to dental, vision, primary care and more at discounted rates.
MEMA was founded in 2006 by professional saxophonist Paul J. Biondi.
FUNDRAISING EFFORTS ARE UNDERWAY to assist us financially to achieve our goals. We are committed to our mission and have a focused, consistent plan to grow beyond these humble beginnings. MEMA provides a strong advocate and resource network for entertainment industry professionals to rely on in times of need. MEMA is a 501c3 nonprofit charitable organization. If you can help, or need help, please contact MEMA today.
If you would like to be involved with M.E.M.A., click here to see how to help.
© Copyright 2006 Musicians Emergency Medical Association, Eugene, Oregon. All Rights Reserved.


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"This is the worst year I can remember," says 54-year-old Sabath, who lives in the village of Musita in the central district of Gokwe South. "We did not harvest anything – not even one bucket of maize. I have had to beg our neighbours for food."
But now – after months of increasing hunger and despair – Sabath pats the sack she is sitting on and suddenly starts to laugh. It is a laugh of joy and relief because in the sack are 50 kilograms of maize – part of her family's monthly relief ration from WFP.
Two meals a day
"This WFP food will make a big difference because now we'll be able to have two meals a day," says Sabath. "We also know that we will get more food next month."
Sabath is one of the very first people in Zimbabwe to benefit from WFP's recently-launched vulnerable group feeding programme, which is targeting the most vulnerable people in rural communities worst affected by this year's disastrous harvest.
Reports from across the country talk of families – like Sabath's – scraping by on one meal a day or exchanging precious livestock for meagre amounts of maize or eating wild foods. Already over 2 million people need assistance and that figure is set to rise to 5.1 million – or 45 percent of the population – in early 2009.
Distributions delayed
WFP had been planning to launch its relief operation earlier in the year. However, the government's three-month long suspension on NGO field activities delayed the first distributions until the start of October.
Tens of thousands of people – including 2,100 from around Musita – have already received life-saving rations since distributions began and WFP is hoping to reach around 1.8 million beneficiaries with emergency assistance by the end of October – and around 3.3 million at the peak of the crisis in the first three months of 2009.
But these plans depend on sufficient donations arriving in time. WFP currently faces a shortfall of over 147,000 metric tons of food – and needs another US$140 million to funds its operations over the next six months. Without extra resources, WFP will run out of supplies in January – just as needs are peaking.
And the people of Musita know what any interruption in supplies will mean – increased hunger, more desperate survival measures and maybe something much much worse.
"We cannot cope without this food," says 55-year-old Edith Hlambo, who has struggled to provide her family of eight with even one meal per day in the last few awful months. "Some of us might even die if this food stops for long."
Contact us
Richard Lee, WFP/Johannesburg,
Tel +27-11-517-1536,
Cell. +27-82-908-1446
Caroline Hurford,
Tel. +44-20-72409001,
Cell. +44-7968-008474
Jennifer Parmelee,
Tel. +1-202-6530010 ext. 1149,
Cell. +1-202-4223383
Bettina Luescher,
WFP/New York,
Tel. +1-212-9635196,
Cell. +1-646-8241112,


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"From dirt to dinner," "plow to plate" - these phrases have been used to describe the new joint ventures or collaborations between seed biotechnology companies and food/feed processors that will allow the companies to control the entire food production process, from seed to packaged product. The phrases are catchy, but what do they and the collaborations really mean to growers?
When chemical and seed powerhouses DuPont and Pioneer joined forces to form Optimum Quality Grains in August 1997, they reported that the joint venture's goal was to speed the development of "new crops that benefit farmers, livestock producers and consumers worldwide." Supporting that statement, DuPont soon after announced a plan to buy Protein Technologies International, the soy products division of Ralston Purina, to give DuPont and the joint venture a direct link to food company customers.
Similarly, Monsanto and Cargill announced last May that they would work together to create and market new biotechnology products for farmers, the grain processing industry and consumers around the world.
Dick Reasons, president, Optimum Quality Grains, Des Moines, IA, says the increase in collaborations is due in part to new genetic technologies that allow the ag industry to efficiently produce differentiated raw materials, which will increasingly be produced to users' specifications. In return, it is expected that suppliers (including technology suppliers, growers and processors) will be compensated accordingly for contributing to the added value of custom products. The reward for differentiated products is expected to exceed the compensation traditionally received for commodity crops. "To day's commodity grain system doesn't reward growers for their best efforts," says Reasons. Ryland Utlaut, president of the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and a grower from Grand Pass, MO, thinks there will be more collaborations because companies can capitalize on each other's research, production and distribution strengths. Together, they can make production more efficient and increase distribution and sales, which, in turn, will pay for the increased costs of research and development.
Utlaut says, however, that companies could become so involved in internal restructuring that they could provide less or poorer service to farmers. More time spent on management could also slow product development, he says.
Fewer choices. Utlaut adds that industry consolidation could limit growers' choices in the future. "We won't be able to go to as many suppliers," he says, adding that because there will be fewer seed or chemical companies, growers may not be able to alternate products. "We're concerned about who we're going to do business with in the future," he says.
Mike Yost, president of the American Soybean Association (ASA) and a grower from Murdock, MN, also is concerned about the continued consolidation of suppliers. He says competition encourages companies to develop new and better products. With less competition, new developments may slow and prices for inputs, such as seed and herbicides, could rise.
Utlaut worries that weeds or insects may develop resistance to new technologies. If resistance does become a problem, many farmers may suffer as they did when they planted a popular hybrid that was decimated by the southern corn leaf blight in the 1970s.
AlthoughYost questions just how much growers will benefit from company collaborations, he does believe that society will benefit from them. "The world as a whole will eat better and have more nutritious food," he says, noting that biotechnology could create foods that incorporate inoculum against certain diseases. Biotechnology developments also could help lessen the environmental impact of crop inputs. "Bt corn has already helped growers reduce insecticide usage," says Yost. "To what extent these developments will help farmers is subject to great debate, but society will demand them."
Fitting into the value-added chain. Chuck Merja, a wheat grower from Sun River, MT, says the collaborations between genetic technology suppliers and food and feed processors are bringing new technology to agriculture, integrating it into the food chain and reaping the rewards. "The trick for farmers is to find out how they fit into the process. There are also new business relationships we haven't even anticipated," says Merja.
"Growers need to be proactively leveraging what they bring to the table," says Mark Berg, chairman of the board of the ASA and a grower from Tripp, SD. He believes growers should get more involved in commodity associations and marketing groups and get to know representatives from companies looking for partners in the value-added chain. "It doesn't matter how big the company is, this is still a people business," Berg adds.
Utlaut says growers also may need to connect with companies that are contracting. Providing information on contracting opportunities may be a growing role for associations, such as the NCGA. Utlaut says his association already has a Web site that enables growers to use their own data to assess whether it would be economical for them to raise high-oil corn. "As an association, we're concerned about how we present information. We're not necessarily endorsing high-oil corn, but rather trying to make information on it available to our members," Utlaut explains.
Growers might also consider forming groups with their neighbors to attract contractors that are looking for a steady supply of a particular value-added grain.
Companies also will do more contracting to ensure uniformity and quality of product and greater production efficiencies, suggests Reasons. For example, meat processors and consumers expect good- tasting, nutritious, safe and economical products. As genetics companies, growers and feeders learn more about animal nutrition, they can work together to produce the desired features. By genetically modifying amino acids and energy in grain, they can help impact meat color, firmness, taste and shelf life, says Reasons.
Reasons expects growers to play a crucial role in this process but adds that when products are manufactured to specification (as they increasingly will be in the meat industry), suppliers must be attuned to quality principles. "Growers cannot be paid more and not expect to take on some responsibilities for their part of a different process," he says, suggesting that producing value-added or identity-preserved crops requires a greater level of management.
Pros and cons of contracting. Because joint ventures or mergers across the ag industry probably will increase the level of contracting, growers should be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of this business agreement.
Roger Pine, president elect of the NCGA and a grower from Lawrence, KS, points out that some contracts could restrict growers to planting only designated varieties and applying chemicals in a specific way and time frame. ASA's Yost says other contracts may give growers a choice of a handful of varieties and the flexibility to use whatever crop protection products they wish. "It will depend on the value of the crop," says Yost. Crops for nutraceutical production, for example, may require stricter guidelines.
Pine believes that growers increasingly will be asked to preserve crop identity, which will require more management of storage facilities, trucks and so on. Contracts also could require growers to deliver grain on a particular schedule, not necessarily when the grower wants.
And then there is the question of transportation. Instead of taking grain to a local elevator, the grower may have to deliver it to a customer at a greater distance. When markets are not readily available, the grower will need to assess whether the premiums for contracted grain are worth the extra production or transportation costs.
Growers also assume greater liability when contracting, says Pine. A contract may require delivery of a certain level of oil in high-oil corn, for example. If the grower does not meet that level or a problem occurs in production, the crop may be rejected, says Pine. This could leave the grower selling grain in which he has invested more (in terms of inputs and management) on the commodity market at a lower price.
Although contracting may cause some problems, it will also produce benefits. Growers should make greater returns per acre when growing value-added crops. They also can be assured a market at a predetermined price if they work with a company that respects its contracts. By knowing what that price is, they can budget for inputs and still earn a profit.
ASA's Berg says it will become increasingly important for growers to familiarize themselves with contract law. He adds that contracting will require growers to make decisions further in advance. "They'll be signing contracts before seed is even in the ground," he says.
Berg adds that growers interested in contracting should hone their marketing skills and possibly form a marketing group with neighbors or develop relationships with overseas buyers. They should be alert to new contracts or developments.
Utlaut says that growers may want to designate someone within a marketing group to keep apprised of what competitive contracts are paying. He explains that with commodity markets, everyone knows the price that grain is bringing. But contracts are less visible. "Growers might not really know if they are getting good premiums or being fairly compensated," he says.
New products. What kind of new products or genetic traits could be involved in these alliances? Berg is excited about the possibilities, such as insulin-producing crops or food crops that help make people immune to certain diseases. Pine is interested in disease- and insect-resistant varieties that require fewer pesticides. "They're good for the environment, the grower and the end user," he says. And, he's interested in more productive crops. "As the world population continues to increase, it's important to produce more on the same or less acreage."
In some respects, growers have already tasted the first fruits of joint ventures and mergers. Some business deals have funded the creation of hybrids and varieties that have saved growers money on crop inputs and reduced wear and tear on the environment. How much growers partake of the next course on the value-added table, however, will largely depend on economics, business dynamics, and growers' ability to change. Time will tell if growers will enjoy an equitable piece of the pie.


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Explode tree
Collapse tree
Ingredients: Radix Scutellariae, Herba Lysimachia Christinae, Flos Lonicerae, Herba Artemisiae Capillaris, Radix Bupleuri, Isatis Tinctoria, Rhizoma Rhei
Direction: 4~ 6 tablets a time, 3 times a day.
Caution: gall s
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Content Copyright Mount Spring International


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You see error code C810-1011 or the following message when you try to download a console update:
Can't process the update. If the problem persists, go to www.xbox.com/support.
This may mean that your console has been tampered with or modified and has been banned from Xbox Live. If you console is banned, your console can no longer connect to Xbox Live, install software updates, or play new games that require a console software update. Learn about Xbox Live console bans.
You can still play your existing games offline when you console is banned. Here's how:
Your console can now play your existing games offline. Any future attempts to sign in to Xbox Live or update your console software will result in an error.
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