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Here's why we, as car enthusiasts, have a duty to our friends and family to suggest cars that might not be the most familiar.
I recently had trouble sleeping. Those of you out there in readerland probably have various remedies for this problem, such as counting sheep, or taking an Ambien, or choking yourself until you're unconscious. Me, I have an entirely different solution that's far more effective: I read Automotive News. And trust me, nothing will zonk you out like 1,000 words on dealership floorplan strategy.
So I was reading Automotive News last night, and I came across this article that said the Mazda3 isn't selling as well as cars like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. You may have read this article too, because Travis posted it to today's Morning Shift, but I want the record to reflect that I read it first. Neener neener.
Anyway: although I fell asleep roughly halfway through the article, as planned, what I deduced is that the Mazda3 isn't selling as well as the Civic and Corolla. I primarily discovered this from the title, which read: Mazda3 a Casualty of Civic-Corolla War. Actually, I mostly just chuckled at the title. Can you imagine a war between the Civic and Corolla? Their little four-cylinders humming in anger as they drive off into battle? And then, from over on the ridge, a Mazda3 yells out: "I'm hit!!!!" Maybe this is why I have such weird dreams.
But the point here is that the Mazda3 can't touch the Civic and Corolla when it comes to sales figures. This is bad news for car enthusiasts, because we love the Mazda3. If the compact car world were, say, a trip to the zoo, car enthusiasts would suggest that the Mazda3 is a beautiful moment when the giant panda stands up, looks at the crowd, and waves its furry paw in love and admiration. Whereas the Civic and Corolla are kind of like stepping in gum.
Yes, it's true: the Mazda3 is the real enthusiast's choice in the segment. If you wanted to be a race car driver, but then you couldn't, buying a Mazda3 is basically the same thing, is how I think Mazda3 owners must think about it. I say this because the local Mazda3 crew is very, very proud of their cars, a fact they consistently demonstrate at the local Cars & Coffee by showing up early and taking up an entire row so they can compare "illest" stickers.
The problem seems to be that this enthusiast slant doesn't have a very positive effect on the Mazda3's sales. Apparently, what happens is, people who aren't enthusiasts read all the compact car reviews, and they pore over all the compact car performance data, and they look over all sorts of details numbers on reliability and five-year cost of ownership, and they talk to their friends, and everything tells them the Mazda3 is the right car, and then they buy a Civic anyway.
Except, I don't think that's what happens.
What happens, I think, is that people who buy this type of car know the Civic and Corolla very well, so they quickly set their sights on those two cars and nothing else. From there, they focus on two major factors, namely: 1) How far away is the dealership?, and 2) Is there a good sandwich place near the dealership where we can get lunch afterwards? I am told they also consider exterior color.
The problem, in my estimation, is that millions of people make car decisions this way, factoring in familiarity with the cars, and knowledge of the dealership, and proximity of snack foods. But they shouldn't. Instead, they should wise up and do a little research, because they'll end up better off.
Now, at this point I'm going to blow your mind and suggest that I'm not referring to the Mazda3. Instead, I think that there are actually a number of new compact cars that are better than the Corolla or Civic. For instance: I recently drove a 2014 Kia Forte which cost something like $25,000, and included — this is the truth — a heated steering wheel and a ventilated driver's seat. How cool is that?! A few years ago, this sort of thing was unheard of in the compact car world, unless of course you had a Yugo, where the seat was cooled thanks to floorboard rust and the steering wheel would heat up due to electrical fires.
I've also had the opportunity to spend a lot of time in the Dodge Dart, which has what I would call the finest infotainment system in the business. I say this because it's roughly the same size as my Apple laptop screen, although it's about fifty times as useful. For example: the Dart's Uconnect infotainment system will display a picture of the exact intersection you're about to go through when it's giving directions. Whereas, on my computer, I still can't figure out how to close Microsoft Word.
Anyway: my point here is that buying what you know doesn't always mean you're buying the best. Of course, we car enthusiasts have always known this – but the Mazda3 article was a stark reminder that we, as car people, need to help out friends and family. If they're looking for a compact car, we should remind them that it doesn't have to be the Civic or Corolla. If they're interested in a midsize sedan, we should remind them that it doesn't have to be the Accord or Camry. And if they need help sleeping, we should remind them that you can get Automotive News for less than six bucks a month.
@DougDeMuro is the author of Plays With Cars. He owned an E63 AMG wagon and once tried to evade police at the Tail of the Dragon using a pontoon boat. (It didn't work.) He worked as a manager for Porsche Cars North America before quitting to become a writer, largely because it meant he no longer had to wear pants. Also, he wrote this entire bio himself in the third person.


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Re-do search in this area
Deer Ridge at Lexington
Bedford, IA
Private Estate, Event Center, Barn/Farm/Ranch, Park/Garden, Vintage/Rustic, Outdoor
Starting from $4,494 to $5,136 for 50 guests
Sweet Midwest weddings happen at Deer Ridge at Lexington, a new event space within a field of wildflowers. If you are in search of a picturesque indoor/outdoor venue to create an unforgettable event, this is the place you never thought you would find! They can match any type of theme or experience, ...
Ned Ashton House
Iowa City, IA
Private Estate, Park/Garden, Outdoor
Starting from $1,363 to $3,181 for 50 guests
Surrounded by picturesque parkland in Iowa City, the Ned Ashton House offers an idyllic setting for your wedding day festivities. The stately home was built in 1947 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. For indoor parties, the house offers a 2,644-square-foot upper leve...
Showing other similar Wedding Venues Venues in Iowa
Alta House Event Center
Newton, IA
Event Center, Park/Garden, Vintage/Rustic, Outdoor, Modern
Starting from $1,646 to $3,949 for 50 guests
Celebrate at Alta House Event Center, a newly built property located just 30 minutes east of Des Moines, Iowa! A unique and intimate venue for you to gather with 100 of your closest friends and family as you all toast to your future as a married couple, Alta House features charming vintage finishing...
Graham Conference Center
Pella, IA
Event Center
Make it an affair to remember at Graham Conference Center! Located on the Central College campus in the historic town of Pella, Iowa, Graham Conference Center offers a spacious and dynamic layout for up to 400 of your guests. With a large atrium and a fireside lounge, it'll keep your guests entertai...
Ramada Tropics Resort & Conference Cente...
Des Moines, IA
Banquet Hall/Restaurant, Hotel/Resort, Ballrooms
Starting from $5,634 to $7,537 for 50 guests
With the 5,200-square-foot Main Ballroom and over 10,000 square feet of flexible breakout space, the Ramada Tropics Resort & Conference Center in Des Moines, Iowa is an elegant venue for your wedding and reception. Centrally located, the property offers convenience and accessibility for you and your...
St. Peter and Paul Chapel
Solon, IA
Vintage/Rustic, Church/Temple
Starting from $1,262 to $3,335 for 50 guests
Exchange your vows at St. Peter and Paul Chapel, a small but charming church with rich history that dates back to 1916. With its perch on a hilltop surrounded by endless rural beauty, it offers a tranquil retreat as you gather with your closest family and friends to tie the knot and embark on the ne...
DoubleTree by Hilton Cedar Rapids Conven...
Cedar Rapids, IA
Starting from $1,828 to $6,919 for 50 guests
It would be an honor for the DoubleTree by Hilton Cedar Rapids Convention Complex to host your dream wedding. With the perfect hint of modern elegance, this breathtaking hotel will take all your expectations through the roof because of its stunning banquet halls, excellent and convenient location, a...
Water Works Park
Des Moines, IA
Starting from $225 to $225 for 50 guests
Water Works Park is a beautiful venue perfect for a rustic and elegant wedding ceremony and reception. Located on Fleur Drive directly across from Gray's Lake, Water Works Park covers nearly 1,500 acres of open wooded areas. The expansive, natural space brings a beauty to the park that is unparallel...
Best Western Plus SteepleGate Inn
Davenport, IA
Hotel/Resort, Ballrooms
Starting from $1,165 to $2,314 for 50 guests
For an affordable yet undeniably elegant big day, look no further than the award winning Best Western Plus Steeplegate Inn. This lovely venue offers an all-inclusive location that offers much more than a stunning space for celebrating your union. Located near some of Davenport's finest attractions, ...
Euclid Room
Des Moines, IA
Event Center
Starting from $1,820 to $6,202 for 50 guests
Celebrate the most romantic day of your life at Euclid Room. Located in Des Moines, IA, this venue is convenient for both local and out of town guests. Inside, the space is a blank canvas, waiting for you to design the wedding of your dreams. Simple and neutral tones allow you to bring in centerpiec...
Adventureland Resort
Altoona, IA
Hotel/Resort, Event Center, Ballrooms
Starting from $1,383 to $6,742 for 50 guests
If you are ready for the ride of your life, partner with AdventureLand Resort to be the host for your big day. The experience will be nothing short of fun, exciting, and an overall unique experience for both you and your guests. Located right next to the resort is AdventureLand Park, which is equipp...
Vander Veer Park
Davenport, IA
Park/Garden, Event Center, Outdoor
Starting from $1,323 to $3,207 for 50 guests
Established in 1885, Vander Veer Botanical Park overflows with delicate flowers and provides a polished and serene setting for your wedding ceremony. It offers two venues: the Rose Garden and Conservatory and the Stampe Lilac Garden Gazebo at Duck Creek. Charming and elegant with fountains and ponds...
Radisson Hotel Ames Conference Center at...
Ames, IA
Starting from $4,622 to $7,877 for 150 guests
The Radisson Hotel Ames and Conference Center is a beautiful space for your wedding celebration. Centrally located, the Radisson Hotel Ames is a convenient and easily accessible place for your guests to travel to which will, in turn, make your celebration more relaxed and enjoyable for you and your ...
Living History Farms
Urbandale, IA
Museum/Gallery, Historic/Landmark Building, Barn/Farm/Ranch, Church/Temple, Vintage/Rustic, Outdoor
Starting from $3,251 to $5,012 for 50 guests
Choose a wedding venue full of character, historic charm, and gorgeous scenery at Living History Farms. Set in the 1876 Town of Walnut Hill, the Prairie Gothic-style Church of the Land is perfect for an intimate ceremony, while the Flynn Barn, built in 1870 and listed on the National Register of His...
Cedar Rapids Marriott
Cedar Rapids, IA
Hotel/Resort, Ballrooms
Starting from $2,220 to $7,594 for 50 guests
Host your upcoming wedding celebration at the Cedar Rapids Marriott. Offering stunning event spaces, delicious cuisine, and exceptional service, this upscale hotel is the perfect place to plan the wedding of your dreams. Exchange your vows outside on the picturesque Waterfall Terrace, where a babbli...
Events Center West
West Des Moines, IA
Event Center, Ballrooms
Starting from $2,570 to $7,805 for 50 guests
A wedding celebration at West Des Moines, Events Center West is always a great time. This venue is a spacious facilitiy with a main room that features a tiered layout. This is a wonderful detail for it allows everyone to see what is happening in the room. A dance floor in the front of the room keeps...
Founder's Banquet Hall
Bondurant, IA
Banquet Hall/Restaurant, Event Center
Starting from $975 to $5,104 for 50 guests
The beautiful Founder's Banquet Hall seats a large about of guests, making it the perfect place to host your upcoming wedding event. The neutral walls, wood flooring and gorgeous natural light windows make this the perfect setting for any and all types of wedding gatherings. Built in the 1880's, the...
The District Venue
Ankeny, IA
Banquet Hall/Restaurant, Event Center
Starting from $2,750 to $8,960 for 50 guests
Enjoy the simplest way to celebrate your big day at The District Venue. Located in the greater Des Moines metro area, this beautiful two-story all inclusive reception hall is located in the heart of Ankeny's Prairie Trail District. Owners Joe and Nicki Romare have designed this elegant space appoint...
Lake Macbride Golf Club
Solon, IA
Golf Course, Ballrooms
Starting from $1,886 to $2,814 for 50 guests
Weddings are one of Lake MacBride Golf Club's most popular events. From having a private clubhouse wedding, to an outdoor wedding extravaganza, Lake MacBride offers fabulous wedding dining, an excellent wedding atmosphere, and most importantly provides the proper service to make your wedding a treme...
Ames Golf & Country Club
Ames, IA
Golf Course, Private Club, Outdoor
Starting from $2,782 to $7,878 for 50 guests
Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. It is a day that you will never forget and it deserves a special setting. At Ames Golf and Country Club, they understand the importance of every wedding they host. That's why they make it their mission to ensure you, and everyone who c...
La Vida Loca Winery
Indianola, IA
Winery/Vineyard/Brewery, Park/Garden, Outdoor
Starting from $2,780 to $4,475 for 50 guests
La Vida Loca Winery, located near Indianola, IA is a family owned winery known for their award-winning and creative wines. If you're looking for the perfect venue to host your wedding and reception, the friendly staff is happy to help! Only minutes from Des Moines, you and your guests will be immers...
The Park Lodge at Terry Trueblood
Iowa City, IA
Park/Garden, Event Center, Outdoor
Starting from $2,253 to $4,400 for 50 guests
The Park Lodge at Terry Trueblood Recreation Center, located on the outskirts of Iowa City, is an ideal venue for a quiet, scenic wedding with beautiful views of the lake just beyond the doorstep. With 5,870 square feet of space, this venue accommodates up to 150 guests and is equipped with a full k...
Duck Creek Park
Davenport, IA
Park/Garden, Event Center, Outdoor
Starting from $1,285 to $3,169 for 50 guests
Find picturesque whimsy in an outdoor setting at Duck Creek Park in Davenport, Iowa! You'll find The Stampe Lilac Garden and Gazebo as an idyllic location for your ceremony. In addition to the the garden and Gazebo we have a beautiful lodge that sits right on the park making this an easy go to for y...
Iowa Event Center
Des Moines, IA
Event Center
Starting from $4,532 to $5,630 for 50 guests
The Iowa Events Center is a multi-venue complex in Polk County, Iowa. Aside from the 17,000 seat Wells Fargo Arena, Iowa Events Center has many options for you to host your wedding ceremony and reception. Opened in the fall of 2004, Hy-Vee Hall is the state's largest exhibit hall with 100,000 square...
Credit Island
Davenport, IA
Park/Garden, Event Center, Outdoor
Starting from $1,285 to $3,169 for 50 guests

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Leadership & Guide Training Course
(12 days)
The Mexico Volcanoes of Ixtaccihuatl (17,160ft) and Pico de Orizaba (18,491ft) tower above the surrounding landscape. These prominent glaciated peaks offer a good introduction to mountaineering at altitude.
Picture yourself leading a mountaineering team up mixed terrain at 17,000 feet, bartering in Spanish for local produce, or acclimation trends of your group. The high altitude experience set amidst the cultural backdrop of Mexico, makes this course ideal for people looking to develop their international mountaineering proficiency.
This comprehensive course is the perfect setting to achieve your goals whether you are looking to become a professional guide, hone your technical abilities for personal adventures, or expand your leadership skills. It focuses on teaching students to be safe, efficient, knowledgeable and confident outdoor leaders in a mountain environment.
THE INSTRUCTORS AND GUIDES OF IWLS are widely recognized as some of the very best in their field and have practical leadership experience from around the globe. They are well trained and have an uncommon enthusiasm for sharing their skill and knowledge, borne out of a passion for outdoor exploration.
The International Wilderness Leadership Schools' educational model nurtures leadership development and creates an awareness of the guiding mentality that is essential for leading safe, fun adventures in the mountains. The combination of technical skills training, experiential education and practical leadership experience make the IWLS curriculum world class.
THE IWLS GENERAL CURRICULUM outlines the essential components for effective outdoor leadership. Here are a few points that your course will focus on.
- Decision Making and Problem Solving: Over the course of 12 or 24 days, we'll discover ways to assess problems, explore solutions and evaluate options in order to make effective and safe decisions in the field.
- Expedition Behavior and Group Dynamics: Because this course is a true wilderness expedition, interactions between group members need to be supportive and contribute to the efficacy of the group. The daily dynamics of the group, combined with instruction, will teach participants not only how to be a member of a team, but how to influence and lead an expedition.
- Weather: Will the storm arrive in the next 12 hours or the next 48? Understanding weather patterns and trends will help you plan successful trips in a wilderness setting.
- Navigation: Learn how to take a bearing, read a topographical map, triangulate your position, or navigate in a whiteout.
IWLS MOUNTAINEERING CURRICULUM is built from countless expeditions in Alaska and around the world. You'll learn how to be a competent and proficient mountaineer in a variety of different environments. Below are some topics we'll cover.
- Rope Teams: Rope team travel is a complicated endeavor that requires skill, technique and teamwork. We'll cover everything from prussic arrangement to team management for this form of mountain travel.
- Subjective Hazards: Among other things, dehydration, fatigue and personal pride can be detrimental to group safety. Learn how to implement measures to mitigate these potential hazards.
- Short Roping: Learn different applications of short roping technique and times and places to utilize it.
- Altitude Considerations: Pico de Orizaba reaches above 18,000 feet. Learn how to recognize signs and symptoms of acute mountain sickness, and steps to take to avoid it. We'll also discuss the most effective treatment for all altitude illnesses: descent.
IWLS INTERNATIONAL CURRICULUM is designed to provide students with a fundamental understanding of planning and leading expeditions in foreign countries. Here are just a few topics that will be covered:
- Cultural History: As visitors to this remarkable place, we place a premium on being respectful and learning about the local culture and history. The rich Mexican history of central Mexico provides great insight into the culture of the region today.
- Language Skills: The ability to ask directions, purchase items, and communicate on any level is an essential element of leading an expedition to a foreign country. Throughout the course, we'll develop our Spanish language skills through dialog and lesson plans.
- Trip Preparation: Logistics in a foreign country have the potential to be complex and tenuous. You'll take part in shopping at the local market, arranging transportation, and securing permits in preparation for your expedition to the Volcanoes of Mexico.
EXPERIENCE LEVEL No previous experience is necessary for this course. However, with a desire to learn and an enthusiasm for adventure, this course prepares you for a lifetime of wilderness exploration.
CERTIFICATIONS Upon completion of the 12-day course, participants may qualify for the following certifications:
12 Day Guide Training Certificate of Completion
International Wilderness Leadership School
DATES & PRICES Please see our schedule for current dates and price information.


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For price or custom configuration please contact us
In stock
Now Only $550.00 Regular Price $695.00
You will need to visit any one of the jacket pages (A-2, G-1 etc) to select your preferred jacket, and add it to the shopping cart. "Pistol Packin' Mama was part of the 390th BG. Visit the 390 BG page for information and to add patches to your shopping cart. If you like to have a nametag visit the nametag & wings page and add the preferred nametag to the shopping cart. The jacket is custom made and it is not refundable! Visit the size page to provide us with your size information. (we will send you a stock jacket to confirm the size). For current price contact ussee other Nose art here
Write Your Own Review


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These games teach valuable skills and have a high fun and educational rating.
Your child develops early reading and phonics skills by matching beginning sounds to their letters and learning about short vowels vs. long vowels.
Your child will learn to scan and observe his/her surroundings to find specific things by searching for apples for Dora's pony.
Your child develops sorting and classification skills as well as graph interpretation by sorting Ellen's possessions into different categories.
Your child learns about following ordered directions and the process of making honey by helping Kirsten make honey for her school book fundraiser.
Your child learns that every living creature has a home by exploring and placing animals in different environments.
Your child develops classification skills by choosing which animals and plants belong what groups.
Your child improves life skills by learning how to sort various objects.
Your child develops an understanding of logic and classifying by deciding if Binky's game show elements are facts or opinions.
Your child develops a variety of skills including measurement, classification and exploration by playing a variety of Buzz Lightyear games.
Zoodles 11.8.7 Copyright (c) 2014 Inquisitive Minds, Inc. All rights reserved.


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The spamming of lists of Ajax tutorials to digg has gone beyond ridiculous. There are hundreds of posts about AJAX tutorials, following 17 of them made it to the front page. Most of them are nothing new, are simply copy of previous posts.
Here are my reactions to them,
We have expanded the Free Java Books section to Free Computer Books'. It now has over 5000 free online computer books on pretty much all computer subjects, such as Internet, Web, Programming, Design Pattern, Architecture, Software, Hardware, and many more
They are all organized under easily-to-find tag cloud. You do not need to drill down many levels just to get to one book.
All free books are just one tag away, All free books are just one click away.
We have just completely revamped the site, hope that you like the new look. This pave the way for adding many more new exciting features to the site, so please stay tuned.
Recently, we received a very angry comment from an author, because our book section has a link that refers directly to the PDF version of his book and not to the landing page on his site. He calls it HIGHLY UNETHICAL and STEALING. What do you think?
We publish the communications between the author and us. We remove some names to protect the parties involved, because we want a healthy dicussion on the practice of linking directly to the PDF file of a book, and not something else that might lead to personal attack.
>>>>>>>>>>> From author
your books section is HIGHLY UNETHICAL
As a former publisher ( I build {Site Name} ) I have to say that your books section is highly unethical. In short, you are STEALING.
When a website puts up a book (be it in HTML or PDF), they expect to benefit from that investment by having people come to their site to get the book. So you guys should at least link to the landing page where the book was hosted on the original site. But by linking direcly to the PDF\'s, or the printer friendly versions of the articles, you are STEALING from the original site that posted it.
Shame on you!
{the Author}
>>>>>>>>>>>> Response from us
Dear {the Author},
First, we would like to thank you for your highly acclaimed book, {Book Name}, we bought the books as a result of first reading the PDF version and then clicking the Amazon link on the first page of the PDF file.
We were very shocked, to say the least, to read your comments posted on our site, and we could not believe those comments would come from a highly respected author like yourself. We totally and completely reject your accusations, especially those very RUDE remarks. We are NOT in violation of anything as you accused and we follow widely adopted Internet practice as most search engines do. However we have removed the link in question as a goodwill gesture.
We don't understand how the original site or the author (you) would not get the credit, when you use the first full page of the PDF file to make full claim of all credits even with some clickable HTML links (that is how we bought the book).
We are not pretending to own anything as we clearly state in bold at the same page "ATTENTION: We do not own or store any copies of these books in our server, only provide links to other sites. "
Let us quote some key points in our emails to {Person A} and {Person B},
We will remove those links if the authors are not happy about. As we (and our searchbot) have no way of knowing what is the original site of those books, or if the other sites hosting the books have any agreement with the authors.
We only make use of publicly available links found on the search engines. What is the difference from such links on our site and those links on the search engine sites?
I suggest that you should get search engines to remove those links first, then our search bot will not find them and post them on our site.
May I also suggest that you should try to correct the source of problems, and contact those sites hosting your contents directly, since we have no way of knowing if they host it legally or not.
We are upgrading our server in order to better serve you. We are experiencing some technical glitches during upgrade, thank you for your patience.
On the package index page, a third section, examples, is now added. The three sections are
1. Packages section
It lists all the subpackges. The number next to a package name indicates number of examples for this package.
2. Classes section
It lists all the classes contained within this package. The number next to a class name indicates number of examples for this class
3. Example section
It lists all the examples contained within this package.
Please take a look at the following
This is the translation in Russian
KickJava.com сообщил что их Java Source Codes Repository перевалил за 20 миллионов строк исходных кодов!
Surprised to see the previous news item has been translated into Chinese. http://news.csdn.net/n/20060307/87844.html
If you know of any other language translation, we would like to post it here too.
"KickJava.com 推出Java原代码库,目前包含了超过20,000,000行的代码。
该代码库的特点就是所有的原代码都连接到JDK APIs且广泛的互相引用,所以可以用来轻松的跟踪call stack。
地址:http://kickjava.com/src "
Java.net reports today
KickJava.com has introduced a Java Source Codes Repository of over 20 million lines of codes, with more being added. "The unique feature is that all source codes are extensively cross-referenced and linked to JDK APIs, so that it can be used to track the call stack easily." Code is organized in sections by package, so the top level consists of "org", "com", "java", etc.
Java.net also reported another news about KickJava.com on Sep. 23, 2005
KickJava.com has added some new java code search features. They write in, "You can browse all J2SE, J2EE and J2ME APIs, and examples in one place. It just adds a new feature to allow you to search 20,041,731 lines of Java source code. Simply click on the 'Search More Java Examples' & it will search all its source code and return the search results with rank. You can easily navigate the source code through the hyperlinks."
Thanks for KickJava users' suggestion, we create a Blog here so that we can post news and announcements regarding http://KickJava.com.
In addition to contacting us by email, KickJava users are also welcomed to contact us in the following two new additional ways,
1. Post your comments right here in our blog.
2. Post your replies in our dedicated topic, http://121space.com/index.php?showtopic=133
We are closely monitoring these two venues.
Thank you for your support over the years, we hope that this can improve our communication in order to better serve you.
Last entries
My Blog Links


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Nothing invites or delights like the dancing flames of a fire. For thousands of years fire has been the focal point of hearth and home; so gather your family to enjoy the warmth and beauty of your fireplace with a new Massive Oak See Through Vented Gas Log Set. Add the beauty and warmth of fire to your existing masonry or wood burning see-thru fireplace without having to install a while new unit.
This exquisitely crafted gas log set comes in a life-like wood style and texture to create the look and feel of a real wood fire without the hassle. Complete with glowing embers and a range of BTU's to keep you cozy, this log set is a natural choice to add the ambiance of fire to your home.
- Lifetime warranty on burner base and logs
- Up to 22,000 BTUs radiant heat
- All components are factory assembled, leak tested for reliability and easy of installation
- Extra large ember bed and built-in accent burner


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Organizing for People
"Tramutola provides effective political strategy for our clients, including everything from TV to direct mail to grassroots organizing, to ensure that they are successful. We have a wide range of clients from school districts, to cities, candidates, healthcare and development projects. We are skilled at problem solving, whether it be for tax elections, ballot measures, or community outreach.
With a staff of bilingual organizers, we are able to conduct trainings on organizing and community engagement in both English and Spanish. It's rewarding to be able to bridge economic, cultural, and language barriers to inspire people to make improvements in their communities."
- Lolís Ramirez


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Have you heard about makeover? No! Don't you want to rejuvenate your personality? Yes, Great! Natural African American Hair Salons Near Me in East Rand there are numerous beauty salons established in Miami to take care of individuals' appearances. Hair Stylist For Natural Hair some of these are sophisticated and high-quality. Beauty salons are now going out of their ways to focus on customized solutions to enhance individuals' looks.
You want to rejuvenate your personality? If your answer is yes then here is a list of Top 10 of Beauty Salons in Austin TX. Nearest African Hair Salon this list will guide you to find the best Beauty Salons in Austin TX compiled on the basis that how frequently the Beauty Salons are used by beauty conscious customers. The No.1 Beauty Salons on this list has been stored the most amount of times by Austin, TX area. Generally, people only store a business' information in their address books if they are satisfied with the provider's service and wish to engage in repeat business.
African American Hair Braiding Styles Are Quite Attractive To The Young Generation-Why
Since makeup is about renovating your own personality, find the best Beauty Salon to rejuvenate your personality. This Top 10 List will help you finding the best quality Beauty Salon of Austin, TX. So, visit the best beauty salon in your neighborhood in Austin, TX, the unexpected change in your look as well as personality!
Natural African American Hair Salons Near Me in East Rand?
Are you in search of silky, sleek, ready-for-the-runway hair without an exhaustive daily routine? Keratin treatments may be just the solution you're looking for in order to tame your hair. Whether you call them Brazilian keratin treatments or by one of the many brand names on the market today, a keratin treatment is ideal for the fashion-forward of any ethnicity. Keratin treatments for African American hair can have especially dramatic results.
With the professional application of a treatment, hair becomes straighter, more resistant to tangles and the overall condition of your hair may even improve. Unfortunately, there's also quite a bit of misinformation and myth surrounding the keratin treatment for African American hair.
What are the Benefits for African American Hair?
If your hair is difficult to comb or has been subjected to harsh treatment in order to achieve straight, glossy tresses, a treatment can help to make a very real difference in the appearance and condition of your hair. The primary benefit for African-American hair, aside from shine and straightness, is the lack of harsh chemicals like calcium hydroxide and ammonia. Treatments can also be applied to hair which has been previously processed with color, bleach or highlights is a good candidate for keratin, which is not always the case with chemical relaxers.
What Else Should I Know?
Keratin treatments can have a significant affect on the straightness and appearance of your hair, but they do require a bit of upkeep in order to look their best. For the day of treatments and a few days afterwards, it's not advised to get your hair wet, sweat heavily or apply other products to your hair. It's also not advised to put your hair up, either with elastics or pins. Unlike chemical relaxers, keratin treatments will also gradually wash out over time. To reduce wash-out and extend the life of your treatment, customers are advised to use sulfate-free shampoos, conditioners and products.
5 Most Influential Hair Designers in History
How many times have you wondered what it would be like to be carefree and have low maintenance hair? You comb the pages of the latest black hair care magazines looking for African American hair dos and see others going the curly perm route. If you are stressed out and would rather concentrate on living life to the fullest instead of being in your hair salon every week, the curly perm may be the choice for you.
If you decide to go with a curly perm, you should be prepared for the following:
State of Hair: The act of putting chemicals in your hair to achieve the long-lasting curls of a curly perm involves using chemicals that some black hair experts say are harsh to the hair (but not as harsh as chemical relaxers). Let's face it, you are dealing with harsh chemicals either way, and if you do not have someone who is experienced with putting in these chemicals, you are headed for disaster.
Convenience: If you are in a high humidity situation, get caught in the rain or go swimming, all you have to do is apply extra doses of the moisturizing product, and the slight frizz you have will turn right back into the lush soft curls you had before. You will also spend less time in the salon and more time with family and friends.
Whichever way you choose, be sure you consider all of the pros and cons. Like I said before, I proudly wear a curly perm that is low maintenance and works out perfectly for me as I am at a busy time in my life. Perhaps when my children grow up and move out of the house, I will go natural as I will have more time on my hands to maintain my hair in a long chemical-free style.


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ALEX Toys Rub a Dub Mirror for the Tub
by ALEX Toys
Please check your favorite toy retailer for availability. Prices may vary.
Buy Online:
Product Description
Bath time is never lonely when you're making funny faces in the mirror! Mirror sticks right to the tub wall so kids can watch as they wash. Cute TV shape is perfect for your little soap star!
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The eyes are wonderful sensory organs. They help people learn about the world in which they live. Eyes see all sorts of things - big or small, near or far, smooth or textured, colors and dimensions. The eyes have many parts - all of which must function in order to see properly.
In addition to the many sections of the eyeball itself, muscles are attached to the outer walls of the eyeball. The eye muscles are attached to the eyes in order that we can move our eyes. The interactive diagram shows these main parts. If anything goes wrong, such as from diabetic eye disease, an individual might not be able to see as well.
Visual information from the retina travels from the eye to the brain via the optic nerve. Because eyes see from slightly different positions, the brain must mix the two images it receives to get a complete picture.
What we think of as seeing is the result of a series of events that occur between the eye, the brain, and the outside world. Light reflected from an object passes through the cornea of the eye, moves through the lens which focuses it, and then reaches the retina at the very back where it meets with a thin layer of color-sensitive cells called the rods and cones. Because the light criss-crosses while going through the cornea, the retina "sees" the image upside down. The brain then "reads" the image right-side up.


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» John Micklethwait is a newspaper man seized by fear and hope for the future of journalism. To be sure, "newspaper man" is a bit of an anachronistic description for the new editor-in-chief at Bloomberg News, where no ink is spilled on paper. Across 325,000 Bloomberg terminals, headlines splash upon screens in seconds, bumping stale events much faster than one wraps fish with yesterday's page one.
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Consumer Guard brauchte ein neues Button oder Icon Design und hat einen Wettbewerb auf 99designs gestartet.
Aus 78 Designs von 25 Designern wurde eine Gewinner gewählt.
We need a new single "Verified Business" logo for our existing trust seal website.
Consumer Guard
We need a sharp, professional icon that our customers can put on their websites to indicate their sites are verified by Consumer Guard, a trust seal website.
On Seal: Consumer Guard / Verified Business
Desired Color Scheme: various colors
Size: various sizes: see existing site for examples.
(132 X 33) - (90 X 23) - (100 - 78) we are open to other sizes and shapes
Desired Style: Clean, Web 2.0 design please
Accepted File Formats: Vector Formats (.eps, .pdf or .ai); Layered Formats (.psd) (Photoshop prefered)
Examples of the same kind of business are: hackersafe, truste, verisign, safebuy, trust guard, shopperguard
Ultimately the trust seals will end up on thousands of websites so we are looking for a quality design
we are trying to portray a consumer protection service, so design should be strong, professional.
- Professional, strong graphics.. A small badge that utalizes a check mark or seal to indicate verification.
- Verified Business Seal
- Consider using ideas and elements from our logo from site (http://www.consumer-guard.com)
- comical, funny


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It's a year since I started book blogging, so today is my Blogiversary!
Although I've enjoyed quite a few books this year, only a few for me have been outstanding.
Since I've read more crime fiction than any other genre this year, it'll be no surprise that most of the books I've chosen will be in that category, with two exceptions.
First up: Invisible by Barbara Copperthwaite.
The Blurb –
Something is wrong. With her marriage, with her husband, with her. But as she pours her heart out to her diary, it's clear she doesn't know what.
Until one explosive night she finds a possible answer.
Suddenly hated and vilified by everyone, she clings to her relationship – even while wondering if she really knows her husband at all…
INVISIBLE is a stunningly powerful, gripping and original psychological thriller of subtle insight that takes you on a twisted journey through one woman's marriage.
The Devil You Know by Terry Tyler
The Blurb –
Every serial killer is someone's friend, spouse, lover or child….
Young women are being murdered in the Lincolnshire town of Lyndford, where five people fear someone close to them might be the monster the police are searching for.
One of them is right.
Juliet sees an expert's profile of the average serial killer and realises that her abusive husband, Paul, ticks all the boxes.
Maisie thinks her mum's new boyfriend seems too good to be true. Is she the only person who can see through Gary's friendly, sensitive façade?
Tamsin is besotted with her office crush, Jake. Then love turns to suspicion…
Steve is used to his childhood friend, Dan, being a loud mouthed Lothario with little respect for the truth. But is a new influence in his life leading him down a more sinister path?
Dorothy's beloved son, Orlando, is keeping a secret from her—a chilling discovery forces her to confront her worst fears.
THE DEVIL YOU KNOW is a character-driven psychological drama that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Deep Down Dead by Steph Broadribb
The Blurb –
Lori Anderson is as tough as they come, managing to keep her career as a fearless Florida bounty hunter separate from her role as single mother to nine-year-old Dakota, who suffers from leukaemia. But when the hospital bills start to rack up, she has no choice but to take her daughter along on a job that will make her a fast buck. And that's when things start to go wrong. The fugitive she's assigned to haul back to court is none other than JT, Lori's former mentor – the man who taught her everything she knows … the man who also knows the secrets of her murky past.
Not only is JT fighting a child exploitation racket operating out of one of Florida's biggest theme parks, Winter Wonderland, a place where 'bad things never happen', but he's also mixed up with the powerful Miami Mob. With two fearsome foes on their tails, just three days to get JT back to Florida, and her daughter to protect, Lori has her work cut out for her. When they're ambushed at a gas station, the stakes go from high to stratospheric, and things become personal.
My Review
How To Be Brave by Louise Beech
The Blurb –
All the stories died that morning … until we found the one we'd always known.
When nine-year-old Rose is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, Natalie must use her imagination to keep her daughter alive. They begin dreaming about and seeing a man in a brown suit who feels hauntingly familiar, a man who has something for them. Through the magic of storytelling, Natalie and Rose are transported to the Atlantic Ocean in 1943, to a lifeboat, where an ancestor survived for fifty days before being rescued. Poignant, beautifully written and tenderly told, How To Be Brave weaves together the contemporary story of a mother battling to save her child's life with an extraordinary true account of bravery and a fight for survival in the Second World War. A simply unforgettable debut that celebrates the power of words, the redemptive energy of a mother's love … and what it really means to be brave.
My Review
A Suitable Lie by Michael J Malone
The Blurb –
ome secrets should never be kept… Andy Boyd thinks he is the luckiest man alive. Widowed with a young child, after his wife dies in childbirth, he is certain that he will never again experience true love. Then he meets Anna. Feisty, fun and beautiful, she's his perfect match … and she loves his son like he is her own. When Andy ends up in the hospital on his wedding night, he receives his first clue that Anna is not all that she seems. Desperate for that happy-ever-after, he ignores it. A dangerous mistake that could cost him everything. A brave, deeply moving, page-turning psychological thriller, A Suitable Lie marks a stunning departure for one of Scotland's finest crime writers, exploring the lengths people will go to hide their deepest secrets, even if it kills them…
My Review
The Theseus Paradox by David Videcette
The Blurb –
"I can't tell you the truth, but I can tell you a story…"
How much is real and how much is fiction, only YOU can decide!
July 2005: in the midst of Operation Theseus, the largest police investigation that the UK has ever known, Detective Inspector Jake Flannagan begins to ask difficult questions that lead to the mysterious disappearance of his girlfriend and his sudden suspension from the Metropolitan Police.
Who masterminded London's summer of terror?
Why can't Flannagan make headway in the sprawling investigation?
Is Jake's absent girlfriend really who she claims to be?
While hunting for the answers to the most complex case in British history, one man will uncover the greatest criminal deception of our time.
My Review
The Skeleton Road by Val McDermid
The Blurb-
When a skeleton is discovered hidden at the top of a crumbling, gothic building in Edinburgh, Detective Chief Inspector Karen Pirie is faced with the unenviable task of identifying the bones. As Karen's investigation gathers momentum, she is drawn deeper into a dark world of intrigue and betrayal.
Meanwhile, someone is taking the law into their own hands in the name of justice and revenge — but when present resentment collides with secrets of the past, the truth is more shocking than anyone could have imagined . . .
My Review
The Running Hare by John Lewis-Stempel
The Blurb –
The Sunday Times Bestseller. Winner of the Thwaites Wainwright Prize 2015. BBC Radio 4's 'Book of the Week'
Traditional ploughland is disappearing. Seven cornfield flowers have become extinct in the last twenty years. Once abundant, the corn bunting and the lapwing are on the Red List. The corncrake is all but extinct in England. And the hare is running for its life.
Written in exquisite prose, The Running Hare tells the story of the wild animals and plants that live in and under our ploughland, from the labouring microbes to the patrolling kestrel above the corn, from the linnet pecking at seeds to the seven-spot ladybird that eats the aphids that eat the crop. It recalls an era before open-roofed factories and silent, empty fields, recording the ongoing destruction of the unique, fragile, glorious ploughland that exists just down the village lane.
The Blurb
Trading life in the fast lane of Johannesburg for that of Rotterdam's serene Oude Haven, Valerie Poore packs all her worldly possessions aboard the historic Dutch barge Hoop and sets about rebuilding both the boat and her life after divorce – and rediscovering herself and her own capabilities in the process. Along the journey of renovation she is joined by an array of characters, including two dogs and a rather adventurous cat, a smiling but absent-minded 'landlord', a quirky friend and confidante, and an olde worlde charmer whose mastery at the helm wins more than just her respect. Before long Val has to learn to cope with the strenuous demands of acting as Skipper's Mate during numerous nail-biting adventures -frequently with hilarious effect. When the Hoop, her rented home, is sold Valerie relishes the new challenge of hunting down the Vereeniging, another picturesque barge aboard which she builds herself a new home and learns that, when life on the waterways is threatened by rust and insurance critics, it is those who band together to help who make the lifestyle so worthwhile. Valerie's touchingly sincere story is one of discovery and friendship, endurance and love and, most importantly, never allowing the landlubbers to get you down!
My Review
My Husband's Wife by Jane Corry
The Blurb –
What if your life was built on a lie?
When lawyer Lily marries Ed, she's determined to make a fresh start. To leave the secrets of the past behind.
But when she takes on her first criminal case, she starts to find herself strangely drawn to her client. A man who's accused of murder. A man she will soon be willing to risk everything for.
But is he really innocent?
And who is she to judge?
MY HUSBAND'S WIFE is a thriller with so many twists you won't be able to put it down, perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty, Clare Mackintosh and C. L. Taylor.
My Review
I'd also like to give a special mention to the following authors, whose books I've enjoyed over the past year and it's hard to choose a favourite book out of their book series. They are all outstanding reads.
The links in this list are for their author pages.
Caroline Mitchell
Denzil Meyrick
Frank Kusy
Beth Haslam
Angela Marsons
Mari Hannah
Special thanks to all the lovely bloggers and authors who have shared my posts and have been very supportive over the past year. Particularly members of the Facebook group Book Connectors expertly run by Ann Cater. And the members of the Facebook group We Love Memoirs. Without them this blog would not exist


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Former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Sam Hurd was sentenced Wednesday to 15 years in prison for his role in starting a drug-distribution scheme while playing for the Chicago Bears, completing a steep downfall that ended his football career and left his future in tatters.
Hurd, 28, received the punishment in a federal courtroom in Dallas after pleading guilty in April to one count of trying to buy and distribute large amounts of cocaine and marijuana. The charge carried a minimum 10-year sentence.
Authorities say that while NFL teammates and friends knew him as a hardworking wide receiver and married father, Hurd was fashioning a separate identity as a wannabe drug kingpin with a focus on "high-end deals" and a need for large amounts of drugs.
His December 2011 arrest outside a suburban Chicago steakhouse came after he tried to buy a kilogram of cocaine in what turned out to be a sting. According to a federal complaint, Hurd told an undercover agent that he wanted 5 to 10 kilograms of cocaine and 1,000 pounds of marijuana per week to distribute in the Chicago area. He claimed he was already distributing 4 kilograms a week, according to the complaint. A kilogram is about 2.2 pounds.
At the time, Hurd was a wide receiver with stints for the Bears and Cowboys who had played most of his five seasons on special teams. He was in the first year of a three-year contract reportedly worth more than $5 million.
The Bears soon cut him. Hurd was released on bail and returned to San Antonio, where he grew up, but soon fell into trouble again, according to court documents. He allegedly tried to buy more cocaine and marijuana through a cousin, Jesse Tyrone Chavful, and failed two drug tests. That led a magistrate judge in August 2012 to revoke his bail and order him returned to jail.
In April, when the tall, lanky Hurd stood before a judge in an orange jumpsuit and pleaded guilty, he asked to address the court.
"I'm sorry for everything I've done," he told the judge.
Hurd said he has "a ton of regrets for what I've done," saying that smoking marijuana was the biggest.
"I regret not thinking about the consequences of my actions that have caused harm to my wife my child and those close to me," he said. "I regret it cost me my career in football, something I worked hard for since I was 7."
Hurd said started smoking marijuana in college and got to the point where he was smoking twice per day.
"My life is made up of good fortune with a train wreck of bad decisions," he said.
Hurd also said the "just smoked marijuana" and didn't have "the IQ for the drug game."
"I have never in my lifetime sold bought or used cocaine in my life," he said.
U.S. District Judge Jorge Solis told Hurd, "You had everything going for you but, for some reason, you decided to go another route."
"You were wanting to get into it (drug dealing) in a big way, Mr. Hurd," he said.
While no other players are known to have been charged in connection with the case, Hurd claimed in an interview published Tuesday that he shared marijuana with Cowboys teammates and smoked during the last three to four years of his career "all day, every day."
"I'm in the NFL, and I'm gonna ask people for a few hundred dollars on top of what I paid for it? Nah," Hurd told Sports Illustrated. "Slide me what I got it for and take it. Enjoy it."
Cowboys coach Jason Garrett, asked Tuesday about Hurd, declined to comment "because I just don't know anything about that."
Cowboys defensive tackle Jason Hatcher, a former teammate of Hurd's, called Hurd a "great guy in the locker room" and a "great teammate."
"It's very shocking to hear," Hatcher said. "But as far as everybody smoking in the NFL, I don't know. As long as you keep your business, whatever you do off the field is your business. I really don't know what to say about that situation."
One of Hurd's attorneys, Jay Ethington, has said that Hurd was given no promise of leniency for pleading guilty and avoiding trial. Sentence recommendations from prosecutors and Hurd's attorneys were sealed.
Chavful and another co-defendant, Toby Lujan, have both pleaded guilty to being involved in the conspiracy. U.S. District Judge Jorge Solis, who sentenced Hurd, gave Chavful eight years in prison for a much smaller role in the scheme. Lujan will be sentenced in January.
The AP's Nomaan Merchant and Schuyler Dixon and NBC DFW's Randy McIlwain and Scott Gordon contributed to this report.


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Peter Vesterbacka
Angry Birds downloaded 2 billion times, has as many MAUs as Twitter
Angry Birds has achieved a whopping 2 billion downloads in the four years since it captured the casual market, Rovio has revealed.
Peter Vesterbacka headlines
Rovio aims to be "much bigger" than Disney
Rovio has transitioned from casual games developer to a full blown cultural force, and doesn't intend to stop.
Rovio: It's up to Sony whether Angry Birds will eventually release on Vita
Rovio's plans for porting Angry Birds Space are just as ambitious as they were with the original, Rovio's chief marketing Peter Vesterbacka has said the firm would like to see Angry Birds Space "on all the screens," but due to limited resources, it focused on Android, iOS, Mac and PC for launch with other platforms […]
Rovio aiming to "create a long-lasting, global brand" with Angry Birds
Rovio's intention with Angry Birds is to make it a "long-lasting brand," CEO Peter Vesterbacka has said.
Rovio: No IPO planned for this year
Rovio CEO Peter Vesterbacka has confirmed the company has no plans to have a public offering this year on either the New York or Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
Report: Rovio aiming for 2013 Hong Kong-based IPO
Rovio has reportedly said in a Finnish newspaper this morning it's to plan an IPO for the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in the next two years. Speaking to Tekniikka&Talous weekly, CEO Peter Vesterbacka said the Angry Birds company was aiming to have market capitalization similar to Disney. "That is the target. There is no reason […]
Angry Birds hits 500 million downloads in less than two years
Rovio has announced that Angry Birds has been downloaded 500 million times since its release on December 11, 2009. "It's more than any game ever before," said the firm's marketing boss Peter Vesterbacka, who added that the firm's next goal is to reach 1 billion downloads. Earlier this year, Rovio raised $42 million from venture […]
Rovio IPO "a year from now," $1.2 billion valuation "a bit north," says CEO
Rovio CEO Peter Vesterbacka has hinted the company may go for an IPO within the next year, but says it current valuation of $1.2 billion is lower than it sees it should be.
Rovio betting the bank on Angry Birds
Angry Birds creator Rovio has said it plans to be the biggest entertainment brand in the world in two years.
Angry Birds reaches 250 million downloads
Rovio's confirmed that Angry Birds has now hit 250 million downloads on all mobile platforms the game has appeared on. The news was confirmed by founder Peter Vestebacka in an interview with TechCrunch. Vestebacka also mentioned a location-based platform known as Angry Birds Magic. There's more details on it at the link
"If I was trying to sell $49 pieces of plastic to people then yes, I'd be worried too," says Rovio
Rovio has responded to Nintendo's remarks over smartphones being detrimental to the game development industry.
Angry Birds downloaded over 100 million times
Rovio's Peter Vesterbacka, speaking on a panel at the SXSW conference in Austin, Texas, this week, has confirmed that Angry Birds has now been downloaded more than 100 million times He reiterated that the game has 40 million monthly active users, who spend 200 million minutes a day playing the game across various devices. There's […]
Rovio: Console games are "dying"
Rovio's Peter Vesterbacka has said the console games business model is "dying", but disagrees with fears that the industry is moving into a "casual" sphere.
Angry Birds does GDC: St Patrick's Day content, movie, engine credits
The indie track at GDC wouldn't be complete without some serious Angry Birds business, and, luckily, Rovio had plenty to talk about yesterday.
Angry Birds coming to XBL, PSN and Wii "for starters", no sequel planned
During yesterday's Social Gaming Summit and today's Virtual Goods Summit Rovio CEO Peter Vesterbacka has touched on the firm's plans for the console and handheld versions of its game, Angry Birds.
Peter Vesterbacka latest
Angry Birds downloaded 2 billion times, has as many MAUs as Twitter
Rovio: It's up to Sony whether Angry Birds will eventually release on Vita
Rovio aiming to "create a long-lasting, global brand" with Angry Birds
Angry Birds hits 500 million downloads in less than two years
Rovio IPO "a year from now," $1.2 billion valuation "a bit north," says CEO
"If I was trying to sell $49 pieces of plastic to people then yes, I'd be worried too," says Rovio
Angry Birds does GDC: St Patrick's Day content, movie, engine credits
Angry Birds coming to XBL, PSN and Wii "for starters", no sequel planned


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We Rate Popular Valentine's Day Candies From Worst to Best
Fruit is healthy(ish). Don't try to ruin chocolate by injecting it with strawberry sauce, raspberry gunk or whatever the heck is in chocolate-covered cherries. The end result is always a syrupy, sugary slop anyway.iStock
#14 Chocolate Roses
Chocolate and roses are the two most iconic, stereotypical Valentine's Day gifts. So why do these flower-shaped chocolates rank so low? Because these $1-a-pop chocolate roses are more like chalk roses and they're always gross. We'd rather get carnations.Dreamstime
#13 Pink and Red M&M's
There are few candies more plentiful and classic as the candy-coated chocolate original: the M&M. We love M&M's, especially their seasonal flavors. But unless you're baking your babe some cookies, get a little more creative than this.itemmaster/M&M's
#12 Ferrero Rocher From the Convenience Store
Remember how we told you to be a little creative with your Valentine? That also means you need some forward planning. Remember: Valentine's Day is always on February 14! So, while we love these chocolate and hazelnut confections just as much as the next person, but there's something about a pack of Ferrero Rocher on Valentine's Day that says, "Hey babe. I forgot today was a holiday. I picked up the most expensive candy at BP on the way over." That'd be a huge dating mistake.itemmaster/Ferrero Rocher
#11 Fun Dip
Fun Dip? More like "Oh wow, how sticky can my fingers get while I eat this candy?" dip. While we do find the Lik-m-Aid sticks super delicious, the act of licking and dipping said stick is just a mess.Keith Homan / Shutterstock.com
#10 Nerds
Little pink and white balls of sugar join forces to create one Valentine's Day pack that just looks festive. These teeny sugar bombs are the perfect compact snack to pack up for your kids' Valentine's Day party. The only downsides are that they can easily escape the box and your hand (which makes a bit of a mess) and that basically all Nerds taste the same.itemmaster/Nerds
#9 Hershey's Kisses
Hershey's Kisses may be named after the sound they make on the assembly line, but the idea of the Kiss is just too perfect for Valentine's Day, making this treat perfectly appropriate. This classic milk chocolate treat even has fun and festive holiday wrappers! Yay!CatLane/istockphoto.com
#8 Hershey's Hugs
We love all sorts of flavored Hershey's Kisses, from caramel to almond to lava cake, but our absolute favorite is the classic Hershey's Hug, a white chocolate and milk chocolate confection that we can only seem to find this time of the year. So inviting, just like an actual hug.
#7 Lindt Lindor Truffles
Though a little bit pricier than some of the other options on this list, Lindt's Lindor truffles are wonderfully decadent. They're rich, silky, and creamy, with every bite offering a new experience in texture. The best part? These truffles are made in every flavor from caramel to strawberries and cream to citrus; why not try one of each?Itemmaster/Lindt Lindor
#6 Dove's Chocolates
Dove's line of chocolates is known for being two things: budget-friendly and totally scrumptious. These classic squares have some of the best dang caramel filling we've ever tasted. And their precious pink wrappers make them perfect for Valentine's Day.itemmaster/Dove
#5 Heart-Shaped Reese's
We love Reese's in all shapes and sizes, so who are we to say no to the classic heart-shaped Reese's? Is it the same as their bunny ears? Yes! But is it totally delicious and filled to the very brim with that iconic peanut butter filling? Oh, yes.Amazon
#4 Anything attached to a little paper Valentine
Think back to the joys of a classroom Valentine's Day party, when your colored paper- and glitter-decorated shoebox was filled to the brim with Valentines featuring Care Bears and Snoopy. The absolute best Valentines (other than the ones given to you by your crush) were the ones with candy attached. As adults, candy is a central part of February 14. Paper Valentines, however, are not, thus making this novelty a true treat.Shutterstock
#3 Whatever happens to be on sale on February 15
Even a crummy candy tastes better if it's half off. Chalky chocolate that's only 99 cents for a 5-pound bag? "Strawberry" heart-shaped lollipops that cut the roof of your mouth? We'll take two of each, please!iStock
#2 Conversation Hearts
Though every other candy on this list is available (in one form or another) year round, there's one candy that is available only for Valentine's Day: the conversation heart. These chalky, cheeky, heart-shaped candies ask you to be a "soul mate" have the "best day" or just do "whatever." While the OG Necco conversation hearts are sitting 2019 out, no Valentine's Day would be complete without them (and plenty of other brands make very similar candies). Even if you don't love the taste, you love the message.iStock
#1 Heart-Shaped Boxes of Chocolates
We love caramel, hate fruit fillings, and are pretty divided on nougat, but there's one thing we can all agree on: Heart-shaped boxes of chocolate frickin' rule. Like the best love stories, there's an element of mystery in these boxes of chocolates, which can be found at any price point and at most retailers. But if you really want to swoon this Valentine's Day, you'll buy your heart-shaped chocolates at the best chocolate shop in your state.
More From The Daily Meal:
15 Dating Etiquette Mistakes to Avoid This Valentine's Day
Best Valentine's Day Dinner Deals at 20 Chain Restaurants
The Most Popular Candy That Debuted the Year You Were Born
25 Candies From Your Childhood You Didn't Know Still Exist
20 Reasons You Should Eat Dark Chocolate Every DayiStock


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There is still time to enter the Farming Life competition for the D-Max Yukon.
If you want a chance then click on Farming Life competition for D-Max Yukon.
Also make sure you see our new app.
Farming Life NI is a new mobile app which is perfect for the busy farmer on the go.
It brings together the widest range of farming community stories and content from around the internet; well-known publishers, news outlets, social media, special bloggers and even niche farming services companies.
Read: New Farming Life App goes live


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Census Records for Massachusetts
This entry was originally written by Alice Eichholz, Ph.D., CG, for Red Book: American State, County, and Town Sources.
Population Schedules
• Indexed'1790, 1800 (incomplete), 1810, 1820, 1830, 1840, 1850, 1860, 1870, 1880, 1900, 1910, 1920, 1930
• Soundex'1880, 1900, 1920
Industry and Agriculture Schedules
• 1850, 1860, 1870
Mortality Schedules
• 1850, 1860, 1870, 1880
Union Veterans Schedules
• 1890
All of the Massachusetts federal census records and indexes are available as online images from subscription databases (see page 17). Microfilm of all federal census records is available at the New England Historic Genealogical Society, and other major repositories. The Massachusetts Archives holds original state copies and microfilm copies of the federal population, mortality, industry, and agriculture schedules. Original schedules for 1850, 1860, and 1870 are available for research; the original 1880 schedule is available if the microfilm is not clear. The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) have prepared an indexed transcript of the 1850 Massachusetts mortality schedule, a copy of which is at the New England Historic Genealogical Society. The 1890 Veterans enumeration and all other federal census records are available on microfilm at the National Archives'Northeast Region both in Boston (Waltham) and Pittsfield (see page 11).
The 1800 census does not include enumerations for Boston or much of Suffolk County, but the published 1798 U.S. Direct Tax for Boston may be helpful (see Massachusetts Tax Records).
Massachusetts conducted two state census enumerations (1855 and 1865), which contain information similar to the federal schedules. The originals are at the Massachusetts Archives and some transcripts with indexes have been published. Towns completed are in Essex, Middlesex, and Plymouth counties and available at the archives. This makes it possible to follow a family in the census records for every five-year period between 1850 and 1870, a critical time given immigration and Industrial Revolution mobility.
External Links
- Massachusetts Census Records - free up-to-date guide to accessing Massachusetts census records. Identifies federal, state, and territorial censuses, as well as substitute records (FamilySearch Research Wiki).


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Yesterday, we formally announced that Lightspeed and Sequoia invested in OneAssist, a company that creates and markets assistance and protection-oriented membership plans for consumers. OneAssist was incubated and founded in the Lightspeed offices during 2011 by Gagan Maini and Subrat Pani. We've known Gagan for almost five years and frequently traded views on business ideas and opportunities in the payments, loyalty and concierge space. Gagan and Subrat have known each other since the late-90s, when they worked together at the SBI-GE cards joint venture. They have each built new businesses from scratch inside larger companies – Gagan most recently started the Indian operations for CPP and Subrat built the credit cards business at Kotak – and we're excited to back them in building a new company in this white space.
The thesis behind OneAssist is that consumers increasingly value peace of mind, convenience and assistance with respect to certain events that can disrupt or interrupt our everyday lives (such as the loss of a phone or wallet, health emergencies etc.). This is driven by: (i) increasing time scarcity – especially in double income households, (ii) a cultural preference for 'assistance' (witness services such as Naukri's 'assisted' online job postings, where sales reps hand-hold employers through the job posting process, JustDial's assisted directory service, IRCTC's agent channel for booking online tickets etc), and (iii) an emerging orientation towards protecting oneself from unforeseen future events (health insurance didn't meaningfully exist 10 years ago and is a 13,000 Cr industry now). And perhaps more anecdotally, a growing sense of taking responsibility for oneself and one's family.
We believe there is a large opportunity to create a branded, consumer-oriented assistance and protection platform across multiple segments. The initial use cases OneAssist will support are the loss (or theft) of a wallet (including cards, driving license, PAN card etc) and the loss (or theft) of a mobile phone. In each case, the company takes on the chore of cancelling credit/debit cards (or remotely wiping and locking a phone), protecting against misuse of cards and/or data, providing emergency assistance (such as providing a replacement handset with data fully backed-up), and replacing essential identity documents such as a driving license or PAN card. Each product also offers certain group insurance benefits to protect against financial loss. Plans are priced at Rs 1,000 to 2000 per annum depending on the chosen package plan, which equates to just about Rupees 3-5 a day.
In addition to marketing directly to consumers, the company would also market their products through affinity partners (such as banks, telcos, retail, etc) and corporates who have large customer or employee bases and can offer such products as very relevant value added service or benefits for a fee.
This business model is notoriously difficult to execute against given the importance of delivering against the promise in 'moments of truth', the myriad of supply-chain partnerships and capabilities that must be developed and coordinated, the direct and partner-driven sales and marketing capabilities that must be built to achieve scale and the customer engagement strategies that must be deployed to ensure high customer satisfaction and loyalty. We believe that Gagan and Subrat are the best entrepreneurs to take on this challenge and wish them and their team the very best as they embark upon this adventure.


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Charlie Sheen wants to talk to Christopher Dorner. The former Two and a Half Men star reached out to the fired LAPD officer and suspected triple murderer in a brief video posted to TMZ.com.
"You mentioned me in your manifesto, so thank you for your kind words," Sheen said to Dorner in the video in reference to the 6,000 word online "manifesto" titled "Last Resort," in which Dorner mentioned celebrities including Bill Cosby, Jon Stewart, Kate Winslet, Ellen Degeneres and Michelle Obama and wrote, "Charlie Sheen, you're effin awesome." Sheen now wants Dorner to get in touch. "I am urging you to call me. Let's figure out together how to end this thing," Sheen said in the video. "I look forward to talking to you."
Dorner is suspected in the murders of three people, including one Riverside, Calif. police officer, and the wounding of another officer after "declaring war" on the LAPD in a rant on his Facebook page. In his manifesto, Dorner vowed to use "every bit of small arms training, demolition, ordnance and survival training I've been given" to bring 'warfare' to the LAPD and its families."
Dorner is still currently at large; authorities are offering a $1 million reward for information about Dorner's whereabouts.
MORE: Million-Dollar Manhunt: Los Angeles On Edge As Search Intensifies for Fugitive Ex-Cop
MORE: Suspected L.A. Gunman Calls Killing Spree His 'Last Resort' in Online Manifesto


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Ways to Give
At the National Psoriasis Foundation, our priority is giving people the information and services they need to take control of their psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis, while increasing research to find a cure. NPF is the leader in promoting psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis research. In addition to giving millions of dollars in grants to fund innovative projects, we serve as the hub for psoriatic disease research activities by teaming up with scientists, medical professionals, industry and the federal government. Help us achieve our goals by choosing one of the options below.
Make a donation »
Become a member »
Membership in the National Psoriasis Foundation provides the practical information and useful tools you need to manage your psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis.
Join Team NPF »
Turn your hobbies into your own fundraising events.
Start a Facebook fundraiser »
Put the power of Facebook to work supporting NPF and our mission. There's no cost to you beyond a little time, Facebook will promote your fundraiser and collect the money, and every dollar raised goes to NPF.
Remember NPF in your will »
When you plan for a gift to the National Psoriasis Foundation from your estate, you plan for a cure. Your legacy will help eliminate the devastating effects of psoriatic disease for future generations through research, advocacy and education. Many planned gifts provide tax advantages and won't affect your current finances.
Give stock »
A gift of securities, bonds or shares in mutual funds may allow you to make a larger gift than otherwise possible. This can provide a two-fold tax benefit. You won't pay capital gain tax on appreciated stock, plus you can receive a charitable tax deduction for the value of the donated stock.
Become a professional member »
Professional Membership in the National Psoriasis Foundation provides you with benefits to complement your practice and help your patients manage their diagnosis.
Honor and memorial gifts »
Honor or remember a loved one with a gift to the National Psoriasis Foundation. For every tribute or memorial gift you make, we will send a personalized card to a recipient of your choosing, announcing your generous gift and detailing how it will support our work.
Become a corporate partner »
The National Psoriasis Foundation is the largest patient advocacy organization dedicated to serving people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Our corporate friends are true partners, and work closely with us to achieve our mission.
Matching gifts and workplace campaigns »
Double—or even triple—your gift to the National Psoriasis Foundation by participating in your employer's matching gift program. It's as easy as 1-2-3 to increase your donation to the Psoriasis Foundation
Vehicle donation »
The National Psoriasis Foundation partners with a reputable car donation processor, Car Program, who will make all the arrangements at no cost to you. They handle the title transfer requirements and will provide you with a donation receipt for your taxes when they pick-up your car.


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CTI Blog - The Timber Skills Funnel: Unlocking potential
This blog post is by BWF Chief Executive and Member of CTI Board of Directors Iain McIlwee. It originally featured in the CTI Newsletter Winter 2017-18.
Currently a third of construction apprenticeships are employed in the wood trades, but this is just the tip of the iceberg for timber. The opportunities to work in the timber sector are manifold, currently employing 350,000 people, the £10 billion integrated supply chain is actively engaging talent in developing pre-manufactured buildings and components for construction, seeking foresters to support our vibrant forestry sector, creating new roles to support digitalisation and logistics in the complex and evolving supply chain, employing ever more engineers, technicians and product designers to support our modern manufacturing units and requires high-level craftsmen to produce bespoke furniture or deliver complex restoration work fundamental to preserving our heritage. Whilst we remain optimistic about the future, we have some fundamental concerns about the education and training landscape.
The Confederation of Timber Industries through the Wood Industry Training Group is looking to ensure that these opportunities are communicated and the infrastructure in place to support sector growth. At the top of the skills funnel (attracting people into the industry), the Makeit Wood Campaign is an exciting initiative, reaching into schools across the UK. This educational program fits into the Design and Technology curriculum in years 9-12. We have plans to scale this work up, however have concerns that Design and Technology is a subject in decline.
Despite being a practical subject that engenders a vital understanding of our manufacturing industries and the fundamentals of product design, skills so critical to any industrial strategy, it is seen as somehow less important than the more academic sciences. he decline in GCSE entries in this subject (from 440,000 in 2004 to just 185,279 in the last academic year) is a real concern for the UK industrial sector. Teacher recruitment in this discipline is also at an all-time low (less than 50% of the target DfE set in 2016) making the subject unviable in an increasing number of schools. As part of any overhaul of the Technical Routes for education Design and Technology should have equal status with the sciences on the National Curriculum.
As an industry, we are optimistic that the Apprenticeship Levy and resulting reforms provide greater flexibility and suitable incentive to deliver positive change. In readiness we have developed new Apprenticeship Standards covering manufacturing, processing and furniture production and we welcome the control that these standards hand back to the employers, however, the process needs urgent attention. It is taking too long to develop new standards and the goal-posts set by the Institute of Apprenticeships seem to be a moving target. Delivery is also a challenge, with FE Colleges under increasing financial pressure and limited support for the capital investment and additional space required to offer many of our courses.
The timber industry is working hard to support these vital institutions through the BWF Centres of Excellence initiative. As we develop ever closer relationships it is clear that more needs to be done to address the inherent competition between schools and FE Colleges. Developing a focus for Technical Qualifications through a UCAS equivalent system is also a priority that should focus on post 16 learners and ensure that all training and apprenticeship opportunities are presented to all students without prejudice. This process should also support a "clearing" system to minimise wastage, recycle opportunity and support informed choice. Every effort must be taken to ensure that the Technical Routes are not seen as the lesser option.
Higher level apprenticeships and the traditional academic routes also have a strong role to play to support innovation and the implementation of cutting-edge technology and as a consequence similar initiatives are being set up with Universities across the UK. The timber industry needs a constant flow of graduates in disciplines such as wood science, product design engineering, process engineering, mechanical and materials engineering as well as business, IT and logistical focussed subjects to support the digitalisation and 'service-ification' of manufacturing and construction. It is for this reason that the CTI and our respective Trade Bodies are working with Universities around the UK and exploring the opportunity of setting up an Innovation Council to better support innovation through collaborative networks across the UK.
Timber is very much seen as the emerging material of the 21st Century with huge global potential. If we want that the UK economy is well placed to benefit from the clear obvious opportunities that timber offers to develop - from forest through to factory a profitable supply chain capable of delivering to support the UK economic and sustainable targets - it is critical that we continue to work to ensure that schools, colleges and universities are engaged with our industry.
This means collaborating to develop our rising into work ready pioneers that can help to support the UK in building a modern and sustainable and world-leading industrial sector, capable of harnessing digitalisation, leading manufacturing 4.0 and ensuring the timber industry is a jewel in the UK industrial crown.
[News URL: http://cti-timber.org/content/cti-blog-timber-skills-funnel-unlocking-potential]


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Officially back from vacay and steamrolling into my month with Marilyn.
Marilyn plays Ellen Arden, a wife and mother who returns home after being shipwrecked on an island for five years. However, her husband Nick Arden (Dean Martin) has had her declared legally dead so that he could marry Bianca (Cyd Charisse) -- the man had taste. After returning home from their honeymoon --apparently, Nick was unable to rise to the occasion if you catch my drift-- the happy couple find Nick's two children in the company of a new self-hired nanny. Guess who? That's right, Marilyn, who the kids don't even remember. Tragic. How could you forget a face like that? Marilyn as Ellen passes herself off as a Polish nanny and is officially hired. Marilyn begins a campaign to seduce Nick, where she does catch a drift during a nude swim in the pool. Nick is on to her and realizes that it is indeed his wife come back from the dead. He is happy to have her back until he realizes that Marilyn may not have been alone on the island after all...
I think the performers are perfect for their parts. Dean Martin does a decent job portraying a man having to choose between two beautiful women. Though he is not given much to do but look conflicted, he is able to imbue his performance with a sort of Cary Grant-esque charm (think David from Bringing Up Baby but less comical and less Cary Grant). The biggest surprise though for me was Cyd Charisse. I'd only seen her in Singin' In The Rain up till that point, so I only knew her as the silent femme fatale who played Gene Kelly like a boss. But in this film, I think her part rises above Dean's (though that's obviously not the intention) and it seems like she's the one playing second fiddle to Marilyn. Her characters' over-exaggerations and airs are downright hilarious. Bianca's supposed to be the antagonist but, through Charisse's performance, she is made a sympathetic figure. Charisse steals her scenes with Dean, but she is still no match for Marilyn.
The film does not open up with Marilyn. Rather, it opens up to a quite funny scene in the courtroom where Dean is trying to declare his wife legally dead. And then near the 10-minute mark, boom! Marilyn! But it's not the explosive screen presence of Marilyn that we are presented to. This is an unexpectedly subdued and luminous Marilyn Monroe, appearing in what I consider to be no doubt one of the best "silent" performances of all time. She arrives home and looks around at what she's been missing for five years, not saying a word, just letting her eyes do all the talking. And gosh, I wish everybody who said Marilyn could not act would just watch those five intense minutes where she's exploring her home and then her eyes lock on her children. That scene was moving. A wave of emotions wash over that face of hers. She seems like an angel come to say goodbye one last time. Over the course of her career, Marilyn's played psychotic, cunning, ingenue, charming, sexy, and sad; but she's never looked or played more radiant(ly). She truly shines.
The lush cinematography of the film does help in making Marilyn appear even more other-worldly. The colors truly pop. Marilyn's wardrobe has never looked so sophisticated and her hair so purely white. She is literally radiant in every single scene. In a brief scene between just her and Cyd, she outshines the latter not only in the looks department (her wardrobe is far better than Cyd's) but also due to the ingenuity in her acting. This film was tailored for Monroe; the colors, the costumes, everything seems to revolve around her. She has her own orbit. Not even George Cukor's douche-baggery manages to affect her performance and all the things that come together to infuse it. No seriously, Cukor was a dick. Read this fantastic post by Meredith Grau to read on some of the set troubles for Somethings' Got To Give and the many reasons behind them.
Were it not for the caliber of its talents Something's Got To Give would have been a disaster. As it stands, they managed to get a crop of great and competent actors that saved the film. Marilyn makes the film. I think this film would have helped her transition into the more mature roles that she craved. This was, I believe, her first time playing a mother. Those scenes of her playing with the kids are especially poignant because everybody knows how badly Marilyn desired children. Something's Got To Give appears to be her most self-reflexive work, not in regards to her public image but to who she really was behind the facade of the Hollywood sexy goddess. I wished this film could have been completed not only because of the opportunities it would have afforded Marilyn, but also because it would have turned out to be a nice and pleasantly entertaining film.
Ludovico Rating


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Servy and Maria Pardo Czech Republic
Leader: Servy Pardo
Administrator: Alicia Aragon
Contact Phone: 505-344-0880
Servy and Maria have served the Lord at Calvary Albuquerque for over 15 years. They've both been involved in various ministries, including worship teams, youth ministry, missions, and have worked in the bookstore, cafe and maintenance departments. Servy also served on Calvary Albuquerque's assistant pastoral team. Maria served in SHE (women's ministry) on the steering committee.
In 2009, Servy and Maria followed God's call for them to move to Mongolia as missionaries (sent by Calvary Albuquerque). While there, they gained an intermediate level of the Mongolian language and became acquainted with the culture. After 18 months, they had to return to the US unexpectedly, due to medical reasons. Though many memories were built there for their family, they were not able to see the fruition of their goals come to pass.
In 2012, Servy was asked to join the pastoral staff as an intern and was licensed to the ministry a year later. Servy's main focus was the missions department and Calvary Albuquerque's long-term missionaries. It was during this time that he came across an online posting from another missions organization (TEAM) that relayed the need for a family to move Eastern Europe (Czech Republic) to assist with evangelizing Mongolian immigrants.
Servy and Maria were glad to be used of God at Calvary Albuquerque, but began to feel God's "holy nudge" to go back out to the field. Servy and Maria were also pleased to receive the blessing of the pastoral team, including Pastor Skip.
Servy, Maria, and their three children, continue to pursue the call of God to work in Eastern Europe to assist a Mongolian Church through evangelism efforts and relationship building; and creatively engage other people groups with the Good News of Jesus Christ. Please pray for them without ceasing!
To support this missionary.


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Promote specialises in communication consultancy in the areas of the environment, sustainability and the low carbon economy.
We've been doing this for over 20 years – in other words, well before 'green' became fashionable. We've seen many trends and buzzwords come and go, whether they have related to the environment, sustainability or climate change.
However we're currently in one of the most significant times of change for the environment and for business. At last, there is an unprecedented move underway to genuinely value the natural environment – and this will have important and far-reaching consequences for businesses. It will result in huge risks for some organisations – but for others this will be an incredible opportunity.
At the forefront of stimulating this change is the recently published 'The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity' (TEEB) report. The TEEB report highlights the economic importance of the world's natural assets and calls for wider accounting of nature's contribution to human livelihoods.
Promote is helping to communicate the implications of TEEB, and providing thought leadership to organisations that are looking to be leaders in this long overdue shift to valuing nature.
Whether it's ecosystems services or low carbon vehicles, we communicate in a positive and well-informed way.
The new, natural economy
IUCN Nature Whats in it For You
Communicating the value of nature - click here to view PDF
Relevant sites: Hybrid Cars


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Introducing vjay for iPhone - the mashup machine for your music and videos.
Includes over 15 exclusive, free bonus video clips by Snoop Dogg a.k.a. Snoop Lion, Far East Movement, Eclectic Method, J-Live, and others.
vjay transforms your iPhone or iPod touch into a cutting-edge mashup machine, directly integrated with the media libraries on your iPhone or iPod touch. Mix and scratch your favorite music videos from iTunes or combine songs from your music library with personal video footage into an interactive audio visual experience. You can even use the built-in camera on your device to add your very own clips to the mix with added special effects. The first of its kind on the iPhone or iPod touch, vjay lets you create fun video mashups, display directly to a TV, or record your performances live to share instantly on Facebook or YouTube.
- Media Access - Create stunning mashups using all your media on your iPhone or iPod touch, including videos, music, and footage from camera roll. vjay also comes with a free bundle of pre-loaded artist videos and high-quality footage.
- Real-time video transitions, audio visuals effects – vjay comes with stunning audio & video effects, looping tools, visual transitions, and real-time VideoScratch™.
- Live Movie Recording – With a simple touch of a button, easily save your mixes to the iPhone or iPod touch in real-time.
- Instant Facebook and YouTube sharing - Instantly share your personal vjay recordings with friends via Facebook and YouTube.
- Support for external displays – Easily plug into a TV and stream videos wirelessly to Apple TV.
- Built-in camera integration - Quickly record your own video clips using the built-in camera and add them to your mixes on the fly with added special effects
- Integration with iTunes Store – browse, search, preview and purchase music videos on iTunes from within the app.
Requires iPhone 4S (or later) running iOS 5 (or higher) or iPod touch (5th generation or later) running iOS 5 (or higher)
- Direct access to user's media on the device (music videos, movies, camera roll footage, music)
- iTunes Store integration (search, browse, preview and purchase artist music videos)
- Built-in camera integration
- Portrait and landscape modes
- VideoScratch
- Video Transitions
- Audio Visual Effects
- Live Movie recording with instant export to Facebook or YouTube
- Fullscreen mode
- Support for external displays via iPad adapter cable (HDMI, VGA, or Composite) and AirPlay for streaming video and audio
- Colorized EQ
- Slow-motion (time stretching)
- Split A/V crossfade mode (crossfade video independently from audio, and vice versa)
- Advanced Audio Tools: Waveforms, Auto-Gain, Automatic Beat and Tempo Detection, Beat-matching, Slicing, Auto-Sync, Pitch-bending, Cue Point, Looping, Speed Change, Reverse Playback
- Support for multi-route audio (e.g. HDMI + built in headphone jack) and multi-channel audio interfaces.
- Support for major audio formats like MP3, AAC, WAV, AIFF
- Video formats supported: H.264 and MPEG-4 video up to 1080p, 30 frames per second in .mp4, .m4v and .mov file formats
Supported external hardware (optional):
- External displays and TVs via Digital AV Adapter (HDMI), VGA Adapter, or Composite AV Cable
- Apple TV + AirPlay enabled AV receivers
- Numark iDJ Live, Mixdeck Quad, and ION iDJ 2 Go MIDI controllers
- Vestax Spin 2 MIDI controller
- Griffin DJ Cable
• Follow @Algoriddim on Twitter
• Become a fan of Algoriddim on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AlgoriddimOfficial
|Purchase Price
|iPhone/iPod Touch/iPad


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Well, somebody at Good Letters had to do it: Somebody had to go buy the incessantly-hyped volume Lean In by the stratospherically successful Facebook COO (and mother of two) Sheryl Sandberg, and figure out what's behind the seemingly endless radio talk shows and online profiles—they have been following me, they have, filling up my car like clouds of incense and dinging on my phone with the book's mantra-like subtitle, Women, Work, and the Will to Lead.
I bought this part-memoir, part self-help book on a gorgeous spring weekday when, because I work part-time, I was supposed to be home anyway. Because the pollen was getting to me and I had woken up groggy, my husband generously offered to take the children to school on his way in to work, something that Sandberg would applaud: husbands who will assume major leadership at home are a major key in enabling mothers to succeed.
I stumbled around the house in my nightgown for a while, then finally got dressed and picked up Lean In at the Target in suburban Largo, Maryland, which at ten on a weekday morning, was as silent as a tomb.
I drove half an hour to have lunch with a homeschooling friend, folded laundry and cleaned some grout, picked up my children from school and finally settled down to read the book on the bench at my son's baseball practice, as the evening sun sank over the trees.
I found myself surprised by how much I enjoyed it: Sandberg, who's about my age and who shares some of my generational preoccupations, comes across as warm and intimate, gently self-deprecating in describing her own "monkey bar" career path (it's not a ladder, she says, because you can move sideways too), as well as some of her mistakes.
I happen as well to "work outside the home," as my mother would say, and I could ruefully relate to many of the problems that Sandberg described about women in the work world: I am not a risk-taker. I have a strong work ethic but insufficient self-confidence. I can't begin to tell you the ways in which my Southern accent has led complete strangers to assume my complete stupidity. I appreciated Sandberg's prompting to "sit at the main table" and "speak up during meetings."
Perhaps not surprisingly, much of the book is written in the flat prose of a corporate trainer, or a guest on Oprah: "When we recognize that we can see things only from our own perspective, we can share our views in a nonthreatening way. Statements of opinion are always more constructive in the first person 'I' form," she observes in a chapter called "Seek and Speak Your Truth."
I have to admit my own fundamental distaste for the kind of "elite problem-solver" transnational policymaker role that Sandberg holds out as the goal for educated women, something writer Judith Shulevitz referred to in a recent New Republic article as "the folly of Davos-style feminism."Sandberg mentions that she was raised to believe in social justice and to seek to change the world, but creating shareholder value and developing creative applications of social media seem like such paltry—and yet self-congratulatory, because it was successful and monetized—efforts to do so.
This is a bug-a-boo of mine, I know: I went to school with some of the smartest people in the country, who studied the greatest works of humankind, and on balance, most of them seem to have gone into high finance or writing for television.
Meanwhile, without a vision, the people perish. How can the elites save the people whom they are nowhere near?
Most ominously, a blogger called "The Last Psychiatrist" cited Sandberg's book as not inspiring at all, but rather a covert way of cajoling women to be ready, responsive cogs in a work machine that demands almost constant labor, and which forever dangles the threat of downsizing and cutbacks to keep workers in line.
You can flatter yourself that your hard work could, like Sandberg's, earn the sponsorship of Larry Summers or Mark Zuckerberg, but as a worker without elite connections and stock options, what you're really committing to by "leaning in" is just working eight to six (or maybe later) instead of the old nine to five.
Sandberg's big nod to work-life balance is that she leaves the office at 5:30 to go home for dinner with her children, and then spends another couple of hours working at home. Every day!
A couple of days ago in Politico, writer Ann Marie Slaughter of the "Why Women Still Can't Have it All" article from The Atlantic last summer, stated with dismay that the long hours required at high-level jobs are part of what makes it, "so tough for women starting families…this is still a town that basically says in your 30s you have to work around the clock if you want to be somewhere in your 40s."
Does anybody, male or female, need to work like this? What's an economy for?
And what does it mean to "be somewhere," anyhow?
I'm thinking about this in the context of writer Rod Dreher's recent apologia about his reasons for moving back to Louisiana, narrated in his great new book The Little Way of Ruthie Leming. He references Washington, not Sandberg's Silicon Valley, but the point is the same:
It's like a friend of mine, a Louisiana expatriate working at a good Washington job told me (I paraphrase): "Louisiana is a great place to be mediocre. In Washington, everybody is consumed by ambition. They all want to change the world. In Louisiana, you can be not very successful, and that's okay, because people will still love you and invite you to the crawfish boil."
I love you all, Good Letters readers. I'm leaving the office at 4:30 for baseball practice, but I promise I will go check and see if there are any crawfish at the Largo Target.