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We always appreciate our great clients. Without you, we would be nothing. We would like to make it easy for you to tell your friends about XEX.
By filling out the form below, you will send a link to one or more friends with a gift certificate. They will receive…
After your friend uses their gift certificate, you will be sent receive one of your own with the same offers.
It's our way of saying thanks for your support.
With COVID-19 devastating small businesses in Illinois and around the globe, XEX is no exception. In order to protect our community, we've made the difficult decision to temporarily close our doors as of Friday, March 20th, 2020. We hope to reopen on April 6th, 2020, though that date is tentative. We will keep you updated with any changes that might affect our return date.
While the decision to temporarily close our doors is heartbreaking and difficult, we know that it's the right thing to do for our community. In doing what we know to be socially responsible, our hearts go out to our staff and the entire service industry.
We are a unique industry in that we don't receive a paycheck when we don't work. Our staff is definitely feeling the weight of their financial commitments, as the length of this crisis remains uncertain.
In an effort to help our staff as best we can, we're offering our gift cards online and distributing half of all proceeds to our staff so that they can cover some of their expenses during this immensely difficult time. We'd be so grateful if you participated by purchasing a gift card in any denomination from our website here.
David will still be answering the phone (312-372-9211) and booking future appointments, as well as helping facilitate orders for gift certificates. Please don't hesitate to reach out, as he'd love to hear from you.
We are closely following the guidance of global health experts at the World Health Organization (WHO) and U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on preventing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. We are following the advice of Mayor Lightfoot and Governor Pritzker in their recommendations to ensure the health and safety of our stylists, our clients and our community.
Prior to the plea for social distancing, we allowed our staff to remain home without having it impact their sick leave if they were in any way uncomfortable with going out and being in the salon. We are so proud of our team, who inspire us to work as hard as we can to remain hopeful and to look forward to the future when we will emerge stronger than ever.
Thank you in advance for your kindness and love. We value you and appreciate you. It's during these stressful and uncertain times that we realize all the things we've taken for granted and will miss during this difficult time. We will miss greeting you after a long day, shaking your hand, giving you a hug, hearing about the kids, etc. The list goes on and on. We will look forward to seeing you all again soon and we'll have so much to celebrate.
Thinking of you and looking forward to seeing you soon.
XEX Salon


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This is a difficult issue, based on the interpretation of 2 Pet 2:1. Two non-soteriological solutions are suggested: (1) God's bringing Israel out of Egypt, and (2) God's temporally delivering false teachers from sins. There are four soteriological solutions as well: (1) Peter's charitably calling the false teachers by their own description, (2) hypothetical redemption, (3) loss of salvation, and (4) the apostatizing of previously non-saved knowers of the truth. Instead of defending and critiquing each position I will attempt to show that contextually the most reasonable view of 2:1 maintains the apostatizing of previously non-saved knowers of the truth who have been soteriologically redeemed.12
The redemption is not that of bringing Israel out of Egypt because 2 Peter 1s written to a mixed group of Christians, some of whom have come from Gentile backgrounds. Most notably, in 2:1 "the people," which should be understood as Israel,13 are distinguished from the recipients of Peter's letter. That is, Israel had false prophets; the present recipients will have false teachers rise from among them. Furthermore, since 2 Peter is now Peter's second letter, 2 Peter is written to the same group as 1 Peter (2 Pet 3:1). In this case the recipients of these letters include Gentiles along with Jews, as indicated by the Asia Minor church character and the previous manner of the lives of the recipients, For example, when Jews rejected the offer of salvation Gentiles in Asia Minor rejoiced at being included in salvation. Additionally Peter's description of the ignorant, futile way of life in Gentile excesses is a strong indication that Gentiles are included (1 Pet 1:14, 18; 4:4). Since Peter writes to a group of Christians from mixed backgrounds it is inappropriate to claim that the exodus was accomplished for them.14
The context of 2 Peter develops soteriological concerns.15 For example, the recipients of the letter have the same kind of faith as Peter (2 Pet 1:1). Additionally the recipients have been granted everything pertaining to life and godliness through the true knowledge of Christ (1:3). Furthermore they are to be applying moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance and godliness in their lives as they pursue the kingdom (1:5-6, 11). Following this. Peter guarantees that kingdom salvation shall be fulfilled by appealing to earlier stages of the prophecy that have already occurred (1:16-19). Those who do not pursue such things, however, shall be severely judged and miss salvation (2:2-9). Some have escaped such defilement through this knowledge of Christ only to be reentangled, which results in being worse off than at first (2:20-22). That is, these scoffers shall be condemned while the beloved shall be saved (3:3-15). The temporal deliverances of Noah and Lot in the midst of temporal judgments of others are subsumed under the greater soteriological concerns (2:5, 7, 9). These deliverances are not developed to make the great day of judgment seem less. Rather, they reinforce the fact that since God has judged previously, he will certainly do so again in this greater future judgment when he also saves those who are his. The buying (agorazo) is best seen as soteriological redemption. Even though agorazo does not translate OT words for soteriological redemption, the word always means soteriological redemption in the NT when it refers to people as the object of the purchase (1 Cor 6:20; 7:23; Rev 5:9; 14:3-4). The context clearly develops soteriological issues. Within this development there is a major emphasis on lifestyle, which is quite appropriate to Petrine redemption. For example, those who have knowledge of Christ are to abundantly appropriate in their lives faith, moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love (2 Pet 1:2-7). This meaningful way of life assures the believer that he shall bear fruit and enter into the eternal kingdom (1:8-11). This meaningful way of life is the reverse of the preredemptive, futile, sinful way of life (1 Pet 1:18; 2 Pet 1:9). So agorazo here is best seen as soteriological redemption. The lack of a mentioned price is no reason to overthrow this soteriological meaning since half of the NT soteriological meanings of this word omit any mention of a price (2 Pet 2:1; Rev 14:3-4).
The master (despotes) who is denied by the false teachers is Jesus Christ (2 Pet 2:1). First, since the redemption accomplished by the master is soteriological (2:1) and Peter describes only Christ as the one who soteriologically redeems people (1 Pet 1: 18-19), then Christ is the master of whom Peter speaks in 2 Pet 2:l. Second, Christ is the master because the context emphasizes soteriological concerns. For example, Peter elsewhere uses despotes of the sovereign creator (Acts 4:24). However, the sovereign creator is an unlikely reference in 2 Pet 2:1 since creator is only a minor element in 2 Peter, subservient to the greater concern of eschatological salvation and judgment (3:4-7). Additionally Peter elsewhere uses despotes of earthly slave masters (1 Pet 2:18). However, there is no indication of earthly masters and their lying slaves in 2 Peter. In fact the false teachers are free with the human freedom to pursue a multitude of different actions inappropriate for slaves, most notably their own licentious living. Third, Jesus is the master since despotes is broadly translated as adonay in the LXX, and Peter understood adonay (translated by kyrios) to be Christ in the only recorded time Peter referred to a passage as containing it (Acts 2:34, 36). Fourth, the parallel account in Jude 4 uses despotes to refer to Christ. That is, within a context of the common salvation the false teachers are denying the Master (despotes) and Lord (kyrios), Jesus Christ.
It is inappropriate to appeal to a hypothetical redemption in 2 Pet 2:1, patterned after Luke 14:15-24. A. Chang, for example, maintains such a hypothetical purchase.16 But Chang nullifies his position by arguing that the statements of purchase are outright lies. He argues for false statements of actual purchase rather than true statements of hypothetical purchase. Such an argument better supports the view of charity, calling someone something that they call themselves, even though it is false. I. H. Marshall, however, does develop the hypothetical nature of the purchase in Luke. In that case "the purchase may well have been arranged on the condition of a later inspection and approval" where the reference to necessity (ananke) "implies the legal obligation of the purchaser to complete the sale.17 This Lukan example, however, is in the middle of an actual transaction and does not develop the effect of a rejection of a completed purchase such as Peter develops in 2 Pet 2:1. The meaning of Petrine redemption as actual or hypothetical is then not determined by an appeal to Luke but by the context of 2 Peter.
A contextual appeal to 2 Peter surfaces three groups who have actually experienced the change of life normally resulting from Petrine redemption. The first is that body of believers who are growing in the qualities of salvation (2 Pet 1:4-6). For example, this group escaped lusts through moral excellence and godliness. Second, the theoretical possibility of a second group is admitted by Peter in the context. They may have begun with these changed qualities and then left them, having forgotten their purification from their former sins (1:9-11). Peter condemns these apostates as doubly blind, unfruitful and in danger of missing the kingdom. Peter then develops this theoretical group as two actual groups: the false teachers, and those who barely escape lusts, only to be enticed back into their former lifestyles (2:18-22).18 These two groups experience the lifestyle change that the knowledge of Christ produces. For example, those who barely escape from the ones who live in error still actually escape for a time (2:18). The repetition of apophygontes in vv 18, 20 identifies the possibility of some people barely escaping, only to be overcome again. The context of v 20, however, primarily has to do with the false teachers, who are the third group. This is demonstrated contextually since the false teachers are those who entice by fleshly desires, promising freedom while they themselves are slaves overcome19 by judgment20 (2:18-19). Furthermore the use of "for" (gar) in vv 19-20 connects this immediately preceding material with what follows, so that false teachers remain the primary subject.21 The false teachers are indicated as the subject through the repetition of "overcome" (hettontai) in v 20, emphasizing the judgment that "overcomes" (hettetai) the false teachers in v 19. Since v 20 primarily has to do with the false teachers, they also had actually escaped the defilements of the world by the knowledge of Christ. They have experienced the change of life normally resulting from Petrine redemption (1 Pet 1:18; 2 Pet 2:20).
The false teachers have been redeemed soteriologically under Peter's concept of redemption. (1) They have been redeemed soteriologically because Christ has bought (agorazd) them in a soteriological manner (2 Pet 2:1). (2) The soteriological redemption was not hypothetically applied but actually accomplished, since the false teachers have experienced the results of Petrine redemption: a changed life (2:20). Thus where the results of the work have been present one should consider the work of redemption as having been accomplished. (3) Redemption results were accomplished by the knowledge (oida) of Christ, which further identifies the redemption as having been soteriologically accomplished. For example, the divinely-given, true knowledge of Christ is within the precious and magnificent salvation promises (1:3-4). This soteriological knowledge is a commitment to truth that leads to salvation and the kingdom (1:8-11; 3:18). So the one who diligently continues in soteriological knowledge shall arrive at kingdom salvation. It is then best to see the false teachers as actually having begun by Petrine soteriological redemption, which resulted in their transformed lives through Christ's death.
The false teachers have in turn, however, exchanged their knowledge and moral living for an ignorant life of rampant sin and certain condemnation. Having come to know (epiginosko) the way of righteousness and experiencing (epiginosko) it, they have then rejected it (2:21), which in turn has plunged them into an ignorant life (agnaeo, 1:12). Such ignorance is akin to the unbeliever's condition of practicing sinful lust and persecuting Christ (Acts 3:17; 1 Pet 1:14; 2:15). These false teachers, however, are worse off than if they had remained unredeemed ignorant unbelievers (2 Pet 2:21). (1) They know the commandment that they must live righteously. In being overcome by the entanglements of the world they know judgment will follow their obedience. (2) Their true bent demonstrates clearly that they are fools (2:22). Proverbial statements such as a dog returning to its vomit and a washed sow returning to the mire recall the contextual use in Prov 26:11 signifying a fool returning to his folly. These false teachers cannot say they never knew better. They have committed high-handed sin, knowingly rejecting both Christ and the way they must live. Such an unrighteous life will be kept by the Lord under impending punishment for the day of judgment (2:9).
Such a concept renders Petrine redemption superabundant rather than impotent. First, the elect are redeemed, accomplishing for them a transformation of life that leads toward their guaranteed salvation (1 Pet 1:1-5, 18). In Peter's terminology salvation is identified with the resurrection and the kingdom (1:5, 9, 10). Things can be considered presently soteriological, however, if they normally lead toward that salvation even if they do not fully accomplish it (3:21; 4:18; 2 Pet 3:15). Redemption as a soteriological work of Christ is effective in its transformation of the lives of the elect on their journey toward salvation. Second, redemption is no less effective where it accomplishes its full work of life transformation among some, like the false teachers who are not recipients of other soteriological works, which are needed if they would be saved. One should not fault a work of Christ that does more than is soteriologically necessary. A work of Christ may go beyond the limits of the elect to benefit others for a time. This redemption is not, however, hypothetical universalism because it is actually applied to all those who are transformed. Petrine redemption should then be conceived of as a limited redemption, which nevertheless extends beyond the limits of the elect. It also includes all who experience the transformation of life by means of Christ's death, even for a time.
Source: Douglas W. Kennard, "Petrine Redemption: Its Meaning and Extent," Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 30 (1987) : 401-405. [Italics original; underlining mine; and footnote values original.]
12 This view appears to be maintained by J. Calvin, Calvin's Commentaries (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1979), 22. 393; R. Bauckham, Jude, 2 Peter (Waco: Word, 1983) 240-241, 274-281.
14 Such an appeal is usually made through either Deut 32:6 or 2 Sam 7:23. For a further defense of the Jewish and pagan background of these recipients see D. Kennard, The Doctrine of God in Petrine Theology (dissertation; Dallas Theological Seminary, 1986) 104-108.
15 Parallel to 2 Peter. Jude develops a similar common salvation (v 31), judgment (vv 5-16) and exhortations to guarantee salvation (vv 17-23) and the security from Christ the Savior (vv 24-25).
16 A. Chang, "Second Peter 2:l and the Extent of the Atonement," BSac 142 (1985) 55-56.
17 I. H. Marshall, Commentary on Luke (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1978) 589.
18 Two groups are indicated because the accusative of 2 Pet 2:18 cannot be identified with the subject, the false teachers who entice them; contra Jerome, Adv. Iovin 2 n. 3; Augustine, de Fld. et Op. c 45; Vg.
19 As in a battle, those overcome are slaves of their enemy; cf. Bauckham, Jude 277.
20 The use of phthoras, "corruption," refers to divine judgment (2 Pet 2:12) and its morality (1:4). The word is not used by Peter for moral corruption; TDNT 9 (1974) 104, 275.
21 Perhaps in the focus on the false teachers the enticed ones who barely escape (apopheugontas, 2 Pet 2:18) are warned of a similar fate by the repetition of apophygontes in 220. However, the conceptual relationship between v 18 ("enticed by fleshly desires") and v 20 ("the defilements of the world") is not significant because there is no verbal connection (as with the false teachers in 2:10). Since the context emphasizes the false teachers as the subject, any conceptual appeal should maintain this emphasis.

subset: commoncrawl


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You know what they say — location, location, location. Intelligent Office of Fairfax is conveniently located at the corner of Waples Mill Road and Random Hills Road. Routes 50, 66, and 29 are also a stone's throw away. To make things even better, we're also halfway between Fair Oaks Mall and the Fairfax County Courthouse. Fairfax Corner, a pedestrian-friendly multi-use complex with restaurants, entertainment, and spas, is a quick 5 minute drive from our offices. Our space overlooks a lake with pedestrian seating areas, and the building even has private exercise facilities and a convenient deli on the first floor. This building has been consistently awarded an Energy Star label for its operating efficiency.
You'll have access to more than a prime location, too. We have 8 floors spread over 25,000 square feet, with 5 high-speed electric elevators to get you to work quickly and 3 stories of covered executive parking. There are 18 offices waiting for you to get to work, a large conference room that can be divided, plus a smaller conference room (both with projection equipment). The latest business technology will be available for your use — everything from wired and wireless Internet to a high-end multi-function device for printing, copying, scanning, and faxing.
Intelligent officers even have access to complimentary beverages, a kitchen, and notary services. If your business needs on-demand receptionist and administrative services, we've got you covered there, too. We're all about offering innovative ways to support your business at a fraction of the cost of traditional services, and you can customize the package that works best for you for one flat rate.
Shared office spaces in Fairfax, VA can take on a number of forms. The most well-known shared workspace concept includes co-working spaces with open-desk setups where groups of professionals work on their own businesses.
A shared workspace gives any-sized business access to big-business infrastructure, including the ability to network and collaborate with other professionals. Simply put, Intelligent Office's shared office space solutions, and other services, are an indispensable resource for the modern business owner.
In a way, you and your business are coming home. With locations across the U.S. and Canada you'll never be alone, either.
Your business needs office space, you need head space, and we provide both.


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Thinking of adding a pet to your family? Here are five reasons to adopt your new best friend.
1. If you adopt, you'll save a life
Each year in the United States alone, 2.7 million adoptable dogs and cats are euthanized because too few people adopt from shelters. Because space within shelters is limited, staff members too frequently are required to decide which animals will be euthanized. The number of euthanized animals could be reduced dramatically if more people adopted pets instead of buying them. By adopting from a humane society or private animal shelter, rescue group, or from a local animal-control agency, you will help save the lives of two animals – the pet you adopt, and a homeless animal somewhere who can be rescued because of the space you helped free up.


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In 1992, more than 1,700 scientists warned the planet about impending ecological disaster. Now, 25 years later, more than 15,000 researchers from 184 countries are sounding the alarm again. While some progress has been made, Earth is in significantly worse shape. And it's our fault.
We've Got Good News...
...and Bad News
What's the Problem?
The 13 Steps
Is Climate Change Inevitable?
Written by Ben Bowman November 13, 2017
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Seychelles Savings Bank cuts interest rates
A further cut in interest rates on various types of loans and advances will be made by the Seychelles Savings Bank. The new rates will come into effect from July 1.
Nevertheless, savers will still benefit from existing rates because there will be no reduction in interest rates on all types of deposits.
As mentioned by President Michel in his National Day speech, the prime lending rates (PLR) on housing loans and commercial loans will be reduced to 6% and 7% respectively.
It is worth noting that this will be the 4th reduction in lending rates during the last 9 months, the 1st taking effect on October 1, 2009, followed by one on December 1, 2009, and the 3rd on March 15, 2010.
According to the bank, during this period the maximum benefit was passed on to borrowers in the commercial sector, which has seen a huge reduction of 10%, from a PLR as high as 17% in September to 7% from July 1.
The bank expects the cut in interest rates to encourage people to borrow money at a more affordable rate, which should result in accelerated economic activity and benefit everybody in the long run.


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If you are like millions of other shoppers this Memorial Day weekend then when you are not lounging in the sun, or eating outside, you're online or in-store looking for great deals on games. There are quite a few promotions going on this weekend that you may not want to miss.
Irrational Games' very popular return to the Bioshock Franchise, 'Bioshock Infinite', is currently leading the retailer's promotional page. You can pick up Bioskock Infinite for $39 for a limited time on PS3 or Xbox 360, the PC version id 14% off. Square Enix's title 'Tomb Raider' is also on sale for $34 on PS3 and Xbox 360. There are dozens of games that are marked down as well including older titles like 'Medal of Honor: Warfighter' for $15 and 'Zone of the Enders HD Collection' for $20, 'XCOM:Enemy Unknown' and more.


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Independant professional photographer based in Paris and freelancer journalist, I help all kind of societies, communication agencies, event agencies, etc., to fulfil their images needs.
As a freelancer photographer in Paris and around, I am available for different kinds of projects like :
– Photos reportages
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In the "Réalisation" tab, you'll find a large showcase of my work. I'm perfectly at ease with working in an english speaking environement. In fact, it happens quite often that many of the people I photographe are foreigners that only speaks english.
Tireless curious, always with new ideas, and always looking forward to news projets, I'll be more than happy to answer any of your demands.
If you have any questions, photo projects on Paris, or if you need a quote for a professionnal photographer services, feel free to contact me throught the contact form on the right side. It's in french, but I'm sure you'll manage to get it right 🙂
See you soon !
Nicolas Kalogeropoulos


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Try to be a rainbow for someone's cloud.
Maya Angelou
If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door.
Milton Berle
We accept the love we think we deserve.
Stephen Chbosky
No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world.
Robin Williams
There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.
Edith Wharton


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Economic Watch Shows China's Economy is Stable
China's rising M-M inflation and narrower decline in producer prices in August have provided fresh evidence of a steadying economy, experts said.
China's consumer price index (CPI), a main gauge of inflation, rose 0.1% in August on a M-M basis, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) announced last Friday.
It grew 1.3% Y-Y in August, down from July's 1.8%, largely due to eased food prices, according to NBS statistician Yu Qiumei.
The price of pork rose 6.4% Y-Y n August, slowing from a 16.1% rise in July.
The pace of August inflation was the slowest since October 2015 and marked a 4th consecutive monthly drop from 2.3% in April, when the CPI reached its highest mark since July 2014.
"However, the decline should not arouse particular concerns among economists as it was mostly caused by subdued food price inflation," said Zhang Shuyu, a finance researcher with the University of International Business and Economics.
Since January 2016, CPI has been calculated using a new comparison base and includes more products and services, while slightly reducing the weighting of food, which accounts for about 33% of the China CPI.
China's producer price index (PPI), which measures costs for goods at the factory gate, dropped 0.8% Y-Y in August, easing from a 1.7% decline registered in July, NBS data also showed. Yu attributed the milder decline to a low base in the same period last year.
"There is no immediate interest rate rise pressure as inflation remained benign," said Zhang.
As China's economy slowed and industrial overcapacity weighed on prices, the PPI has been negative for more than four years, but the pace of the decline is lessening, a positive sign for economic stabilization, according to Zhang.
In the 1st 8 months of the year, the PPI dropped 3.2% Y-Y, but on a M-M basis, August's PPI edged up 0.2%.
Producer prices for ferrous metal smelting and rolling increased markedly faster in August to 6.5% Y-Y, while prices for nonferrous metal smelting and rolling returned to growth of 0.8%.
"Rising prices for both ferrous and nonferrous metal smelting and rolling may indicate that China's drive to cut excess industrial capacity is starting to have some positive effects," Zhang said.
Zhang said he believes broader CPI and PPI trends confirm recent signs of a more sure-footed recovery for the economy.
China's exports in RMB Yuan-denominated terms rose 5.9% Y-Y in August, accelerating from 2.9% in July. Imports increased 10.8%, compared with a decline of 5.7%, official data showed Thursday.
The import growth was a big surprise, said HSBC economist Julia Wang, noting that the domestic demand rebound was likely a result of infrastructure investment growth over the past few months.
Exports turned out better than expected in August as overseas demand stabilized to some extent, investment bank China International Capital Corp. (CICC) said in a research note, citing rebounding manufacturing activity in the UK and improved job data in the US.
In addition, depreciation of the RMB Yuan also helped lift exports, said Li Jian, a researcher with the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation.
But looking ahead, the exchange rate of the RMB Yuan will remain largely stable in 2-H of Y 2016 and China is unlikely to seek competitive advantages via yuan devaluations, according to the CICC.
"The RMB's inclusion in the IMF's Special Drawing Rights (SDR) currency basket will come into effect in October. China is unlikely to allow drastic changes in its exchange rate to facilitate the transition, not to mention the G20's commitment to avoiding competitive devaluations," according to the CICC.
CICC researchers believe the expectation that China may devalue the RMB Yuan after SDR inclusion is a misconception, given the country needs to establish its credibility in consistent and transparent policy making as a new SDR currency issuer and the IMF's 3rd-largest shareholder.
Exchange rate instability would also discourage investment and consumption for China, it said.
Have a terrific week
Paul Ebeling
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- A Solid Post Virus Crisis Rebound Ahead - March 28, 2020
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- The Trump Era, an American Revolution - March 28, 2020


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I have had the privilege of being the Head Teacher at St John's Primary School and Nursery since 2012. The school has been on an incredible journey, and in June 2018 we succeeded in our aim to become a National Teaching School.
We have a super team in place at St John's and everyone, working at every level, has the best interests of the children at heart. We are proud of our children, their families, the community and our achievements. However, we firmly believe that, as well as having high expectations in terms of learning, we also want children to be safe, happy, resilient and well prepared for life.
Please do come and visit us to see for yourself. We don't plan set open days, so instead try to accommodate visits during the school day. In that way, people can see our fantastic school in action and get a real sense of the nurturing, family feel that, I believe, makes our school special.
Very best wishes,
Mr D Barrow
Head Teacher
We have three main aims at St John's Primary School and Nursery:
- That all our children are safe in our care.
- That all our children are happy.
- That all our children achieve their best, whatever their starting point.


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Texans for Education Opportunity Founder and Chair Stacy Hock issued the following statement after the Texas Senate passed House Bill 21 in a bipartisan effort early this morning. HB 21 is a comprehensive education bill providing for an additional $530 million in public school funding, charter school facility funding and an Education Savings Account program for children with special needs.
"Texans for Education Opportunity applauds Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, Chairman Larry Taylor and the Texas Senate for making important strides in education choice by passing HB 21.


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Washington State Labor and Industries has some good resources on protecting yourself when a hiring contractor. What You Should Know About Hiring a Contractor, Remodeler, or Handyman gives some useful information.
In addition, they have a website, www.ProtectMyHome.net. It is L&I's online toolbox for homeowners looking for the right contractor, where you can:


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Starting with the City's Signature Flag Day Celebration on Saturday, June 16, Discover Quincy is partnerting with many local organizations to showcase Quincy's arts and culture, community, educations, historic and recreational assets. Each day will feature at least one free event, while some events may accept donations and others may have an admission fee. Click here to review the 2018 schedule of events.
The Adams National Historical Park offers tours of the Presidential Birthplaces and Peace Field daily from April 19 - November 10. During open season, the Visitor Center is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. All Guided Tours begin at the Visitor Center. The first tour starts at 9:15 a.m. and the final tour starts at 3:15 p.m. and leave every hour. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis. Weekends in particular can be very busy, so the earlier you can be there the better!
Blue Hill Meteorological Observatory, located at the top of a scenic mountain range south of Boston, is a unique American institution. Founded in 1885 by Abbott Lawrence Rotch as a private scientific center for the study and measurement of the atmosphere, it was the site of many pioneering weather experiments and discoveries. The earliest kite soundings of the atmosphere in North America in the 1890s and the development of the radiosonde in the 1930s occurred at this historic site.
Having served a distinguished 10 year career as flagship of the US Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean and the Second Fleet in the Atlantic, the USS Salem served as host to such notables as the US Ambassador to Spain, John D. Lodge; the Honorable Thomas S. Gates, Undersecretary of the Navy; Admiral Arleigh A. Burke, USN, Chief of Naval Operations; the Shah of Iran; the President of Lebanon and the King and Queen of Greece. Although Salem never fired her mighty guns in anger, her very presence served as a stimulus for peace during those troubled times that came to be called the Cold War.
Explore America's birth as a global economic power in the 19th century through the prism of one family's inspiring stories of adventure, innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and civic leadership. Long considered the jewel of Milton, this majestic Greek revival mansion was built in 1833 and contains the treasures of four generations of the Forbes family including China trade heirlooms and Abraham Lincoln memorabilia. Historic Preservation work has recently been completed. The museum is open to the public for tours at 11am and 2pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
The Church of the Presidents is the only building in the United States to house the final resting place of two Presidents. President John Adams, First Lady Abigail Adams, their son President John Quincy Adams and Louisa Catherine Adams are interred in the family crypt underneath the front entrance to the building.
This country estate overlooking Quincy Bay transports you to the Revolutionary War era and tells the story of a woman's work to preserve her family's history more than 100 years later. Revolutionary leader Josiah Quincy built the house in 1770. He and his family played key roles in the social and political life of Massachusetts for generations, producing three mayors of Boston and a president of Harvard.
Come to Black's Creek for a chance to canoe, row, kayak or use the stand up paddleboard for free in a pristine saltwater lagoon. This equipment is also available for use throughout the summer. Seasonal memberships are available. Adult membership $35. Adult introductory kayak and canoe $15* Youth membership including lessons 1st child- $60, 2nd child $25, 3rd child- $25. Family membership $110 includes any youth lessons, adult lessons, and usage during designated times. On Fridays from 4:00pm-7:30pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00pm-6:00pm we offer family boating.
Board the Valkyrie and spend time on Spectacle Island. Departs from Squantum Point Park, Marina Bay at 10:500 a.m. and the return departs at 2:50 p.m. arriving back in Quincy on Saturdays in June, July, and August. Advance tickets recommended.
Every Saturday evening, excluding holiday weekends, New England Wildlife Center sponsors the Catbird Café; the South Shore's longest running open mic, playing original music. The Catbird Café is hosted by Steve Martin and his wife Cathy Donlon. Steve is a well-known musician throughout the region and brings a thematic consistency between the care of wildlife and music. Participants in the Catbird Café range in age from young elementary school students to octogenarians, from singing families to poets and belly dancers. Sign up to perform starts at 4:30 and performing starts at 5:00 p.m.
In this Eastern Football League (EFL) football game, the Middleboro Cobras travel to Quincy to meet the Quincy Militia. Gate opens at 6 p.m. The Q-Zone Food and Merchandise Concession Stands are open at all Home Games.
Home Field, Creedon Field, 33 Hunt Street ~ Kick off at 7:00 p.m.


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|What is the Smarter Electricity Pilot Project?
Dubuque's Smarter Electricity Pilot Project is a partnership between the City of Dubuque, Alliant Energy - Interstate Power and Light (IPL) Company, and IBM Research. The project is partially funded by a grant from the Iowa Office of Energy Independence. Alliant Energy has installed new AMI (advanced metering infrastructure) electric meters at nearly 1,000 volunteer Dubuque households and is providing the electricity usage data from those households to the City and IBM for analysis. The goal is to allow volunteer participants to better monitor their electric energy consumption and enable them to make more-informed choices about when to use energy, and how much they are using.
What is AMI?
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technology remotely collects energy usage information at frequent intervals from customers' AMI-enabled meters via a radio frequency (RF) fixed network.
When will pilot study participants see their usage data?
Pilot study participants will have access to a secure portal/website beginning in 2011. The portal is being developed by IBM and will be available for participants to test and view information about their electric usage for their household.
Who was eligible for this pilot study?
Approximately 5,500 Dubuque households are eligible in the project area. The areas selected provide the most consistent and best transmission for the collection of readings, as well as the largest collection of residential properties which are the focus of this phase of the study. View a map of the study area here.
Can I participate in the pilot study?
Recruitment for the pilot study ended in early July 2010. However, in an effort to help all residents benefit from the pilot study, the City of Dubuque will publicize the study findings as they become available.
Will I save money?
Participation in the Smarter Electricity Pilot Study does not guarantee cost savings. However, by being more aware and knowledgeable about their electricity consumption and establishing goals for usage, participants may identify ways to reduce their usage and costs.
How long will this pilot study run?
The City of Dubuque and IBM plan to complete the pilot study by late 2011.
What type of information is being transmitted?
Only meter numbers, energy usage readings, and diagnostic information are transmitted through encrypted secure signals. Personal data will not be transmitted so participant's information will remain private and secure.
Is the usage data secure?
Yes. No identifiable information on the participating households is contained in the data stream and all data is maintained in anonyomized format. All data is stored on servers residing behind a firewall and the probability of external intrusion for this application is extremely low compared to other technologies. A network technology and system are in place to make this as secure as possible. All security meets or exceeds requirements for storage and transmission of energy data.
Who should pilot study participants contact with questions?
For general information on this and other Smarter Sustainable Dubuque pilot projects, including how and when to find usage information, contact the City of Dubuque at 563-690-6111 or visit www.cityofdubuque.org/ssd. For electric utility billing, service issues and questions, contact Alliant Energy at 1-800-ALLIANT (255-4268) or visit www.alliantenergy.com.
How will this impact participants' electricity service?
There will be very little or no impact. Alliant will continue to read electric meters and bill customers on the same schedule as before their meter change out. The only difference will be the eventual availability of participants' electric usage data through an online portal. The City of Dubuque and IBM are currently developing that portal and plan to complete it in 2011. Alliant Energy is not involved in this effort.
Why did Alliant install an AMI meter, yet continue manual meter reads?
Only 1,000 electric meters in Dubuque will be AMI meters, compared to a half-million electric meters across the entire IPL territory. Because this is such a small group, it's not cost-effective to connect the meters to Alliant's billing system at this time. In addition, it could prove more time consuming for Alliant meter readers to have to determine which meters to read and which meters were being read electronically. So, all meters will be read by meter readers for the foreseeable future.
Can participants read their new meter?
The new meters have a digital display that rotates, but will show the current meter reading as part of that rotation. There are no longer dials that need to be read.
|What is 'Smarter' Sustainable Dubuque?
Smarter Sustainable Dubuque is a unique public/private partnership between the City of Dubuque and IBM Research, the division of IBM responsible for its Smarter Planet campaign. It is a combination of the Sustainable Dubuque Project initiated by the City and IBM's Smarter Planet/Smarter Cities initiative that features a research focus. It is integrating the values of Sustainable Dubuque and the technology of IBM's Smarter Planet/Smarter Cities to create a new level of integration.
|Smarter Sustainable Dubuque is an element of the Sustainable Dubuque initiative and seeks to give Dubuque residents the information and tools they need to make smarter choices related to resource consumption. The initiative is engaging Dubuque residents and businesses who, through advanced technology, will be able to voluntarily better manage their use of resources like water, electricity, oil, and natural gas. The focus is to develop decision-support tools for individuals and businesses to help them reduce their costs and environmental impact. Individual wellness is also being considered as a component.
Does Alliant Energy plan to implement AMI meters in other areas?
No. There is no current plan to implement AMI meters in the rest of Dubuque or other parts of Alliant's Iowa territory.
Is the Smarter Electricity Pilot Study related to the Smarter Water Pilot Study?
Yes, the electricity pilot study and water pilot study are part of the Smarter Sustainable Dubuque project. Dubuque and IBM launched a Smarter Water Pilot Study in the spring of 2010 to coincide with the city-wide water meter replacement project. There are more than 300 households participating in the water pilot study and some of those households are also in the electricity study. Alliant Energy is not involved in the water pilot study.


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Thank you to all our sponsors for your support!
Marquis Aurbach Coffing has the highest ranking available – "AV- Rating" – according to Martindale-Hubbell, the recognized authority on the legal profession. This rating recognizes Marquis Aurbach Coffing as having "very high to preeminent legal ability and very high ethical standards."
The law firm of Marquis Aurbach Coffing has earned a reputation for superior service, integrity and commitment. Established in 1979, the firm provides a broad range of services, with an emphasis on litigation, real estate, business transactions, construction law and estate planning.
Marquis Aurbach Coffing's estate planning department further provides a broad range of services such as asset protection, estate tax planning, business succession planning, probate, guardianship, and trust and estate litigation.
From our humble beginnings in 1988 with an establishing gift of one million dollars, the Nevada Community Foundation has grown to more than one hundred fifty million dollars and counts many prominent Southern Nevada families among our donors and fundholders. For more than 25 years, we have partnered with Southern Nevada's leading attorneys, accountants and financial advisors to facilitate their clients' philanthropy through our expertise in planned giving, donor service, and customized grantmaking.
Nevada Community Foundation is nationally recognized for its philanthropic investment expertise, customized philanthropic solutions and in-depth knowledge of greater Las Vegas and beyond. We tailor a charitable fund to meet donors and their advisors' needs, whether they are planning their estates, selling a business or stock options, managing an inheritance, now or through deferred giving arrangements. Our team of professionals makes sure that each charitable investment provides the greatest emotional, civic and financial benefit possible.
MassMutual offers local brokerage support – it's what sets us apart from many other financial services companies. Our Brokerage team will provide the training, marketing, and technical support necessary to help you successfully build your business and best serve your clients. MassMutual's brokerage products include: life insurance, disability insurance, long term care insurance, and fixed annuities. Today, MassMutual ranks in the Fortune 500 and was listed as one of the nine most admired life and health insurance companies in the world in the May 20, 2013 issue of FORTUNE.
Compassionate care. It's the essence of who we are and what we do. As the community's only not-for-profit, religiously sponsored hospital system, Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican Hospitals have been guided by the vision and core values of the Adrian Dominican Sisters for 67 years. As Henderson and Las Vegas grow, the three St. Rose Dominican Hospitals will continue the Sisters' mission of serving people in need. Rose de Lima - opened in 1947; Siena - opened in 2000; San Martín - opened in 2006.
We are committed to furthering the healing ministry of Jesus. We dedicate our resources to: delivering compassionate, high-quality, affordable health services; serving and advocating for our sisters and brothers who are poor and disenfranchised; and partnering with others in the community to improve the quality of life.
Founded in 1983, our firm has been dedicated to providing Las Vegas families with estate planning, probate, trust administration and guardianship solutions for over 30 years. While many attorneys handle a wide range of concerns which may include some estate planning or probate, there are few firms in Southern Nevada that concentrate their entire practice on these areas.
Our attorneys, paralegals and dedicated support staff take pride in their efforts to provide you and your family with the finest help in estate planning, probate, trust administration and guardianship. Taking steps to provide our clients with the best representation possible, each estate planning lawyer at our firm is either a certified public accountant (CPA) or has an advanced degree in business or taxation. We know how to deal with the myriad of complex tax planning and asset protection issues you may encounter.
The law firm of JEFFREY BURR is dedicated to protecting families and their assets for over 30 years.
Three Square's mission is to provide wholesome food to hungry people, while passionately pursuing a hunger-free community. We combine food banking (warehousing canned and boxed goods), food rescue (obtaining surplus or unused meats, bread, dairy and produce from hospitality and grocery outlets), and ready-to-eat meals to be the most complete food solution for Southern Nevada.
We work with more than 1,300 partner sites in our community to reach struggling individuals and families at risk of hunger. In 2013, we distributed more than 30 million pounds of food, the equivalent of more than 25 million meals through our Program Partners.
The newest institution of higher learning in the state, Nevada State College is a comprehensive college with a commitment to educating students for success in the real world. At NSC, you'll build a career, not just a job—and you'll prepare to take charge of your future.
Nevada State College is a dynamic, young institution bursting with growth and the thrill of opportunity. Since our founding in 2002, our student body has grown to encompass more than 3,600 students representing a broad array of cultural and economic backgrounds, and our 1,400-plus alumni are living and working in every corner of the state and beyond.
First Foundation was founded in 1990 to offer financial solutions to meet the needs of affluent individuals, institutions and businesses. We are committed to enhancing the wealth and financial well-being of our clients by providing tailored financial solutions from our team of dedicated experts. The comprehensive platform available to our clients includes integrated investment management, wealth planning, consulting, trust, banking and insurance services.
Our bank offering includes trust management, depository accounts, commercial lending and consulting services. We provide an array of banking products and solutions tailored to meet the needs of our clients. Our lending solution is primarily focused on offering lines of credit, multi-family property loans, commercial investment loans, and commercial owner-user real estate loans.
First Foundation is headquartered in Irvine with offices in Newport Beach, Pasadena, West Los Angeles, San Diego, Palm Desert.
Today's dynamic business environment demands that all organizations continually adapt to the changing landscape of their respective industries. Evolving technology has allowed instantaneous communication amongst people and businesses all over the world, and has revolutionized the speed with which we make critical business decisions. With decades of experience serving growing businesses, we at Stewart, Archibald & Barney, LLP, a Las Vegas CPA firm, have cultivated an understanding of how dynamic organizations grow and evolve. Our services and products are strategically designed to benefit growing businesses at every stage of development.
Beyond financial statements and tax returns, Stewart, Archibald & Barney, LLP offers a full range of traditional and higher-level services: Assisting in the estate planning process, financial consulting, business consulting, trust administration through accounting and bookkeeping services, business value enhancement and exit planning services to help our clients take the next step, regardless of where they are in their life cycle.
The mission of Vegas PBS is to use television and other technologies to educate and empower individuals and to strengthen the communications and institutional capacity of community partners sharing similar objectives
Vegas PBS is known as the leading information resource, online education provider, and preferred partner for local media content creation and distribution.
Since 1982 Rich, Wightman & Company has been committed to providing clients with the highest degree of technical competence, professionalism and integrity. Our professional staff consists of Certified Public Accountants, MBAs, or equivalent.
We offer traditional auditing, consulting and tax services as well as abroad range of other services including estate planning, business valuation, litigation support, fraud investigation and executive accounting to business clients in all financial industries.
Wells Fargo The Private Bank helps families build, manage, preserve and transfer their wealth. The Private Bank provides a full array of customized solutions including sophisticated trust, asset management, banking and wealth planning strategies. We are a division of Wells Fargo Bank which is a diversified financial services company providing banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance through more than 9,000 stores and more than 12,000 ATMs and the Internet (wellsfargo.com) across North America and internationally.
Chronicle of Philanthropy ranked Wells Fargo Bank #1 as the Most Generous Cash Donor in the U.S.
On August 12, 2014, Northern Trust marked 125 years since it first opened its doors for business in 1889. The Chicago-based global bank, established by Byron Laflin Smith, has more than 20 international locations. Founded the same year the Eiffel Tower was completed and the Dakotas, Montana and Washington became states, Northern Trust has weathered the Great Depression, two world wars and the 2008 financial crisis. The bank not only survived, but thrived during these times of significant market and economic stress.
Northern Trust (Nasdaq:NTRS) is a global leader in delivering innovative investment management, asset and fund administration, fiduciary and banking solutions to corporations, institutions and affluent individuals. For 125 years, we have evolved with the changing needs of our clients and our world.
Premier Trust is a Nevada chartered trust company providing independent administrative trustee services, not only to our Nevada clients but all across our nation who want to benefit from the Nevada Advantage; Nevada's favorable trust, corporate, asset protection and tax laws.
Good financial strategies start with a dream and a plan. Whether you or your clients are looking for high-end estate planning, trust administrative services, or want to invest in non-traditional assets within an IRA, Premier Trust offers the cost-effective, creative, flexible administrative solutions for dreams of any size and situation with a full line of personalized trust, IRA and estate settlement services.
Wealth Strategies Group, LLC is a complete financial services firm, incorporating the unique insights developed by Vasil Allabashi during his 54 years in the insurance and financial services industry. A premier member of the Denver and Las Vegas financial services community since 1987, Wealth Strategies Group specializes in the development and enhancement of client planning by ensuring proper coordination between all financial assets. With a senior management team of 15, WSG assists individuals, families and business owners in navigating through all aspects of their financial world, employing a distinctive set of strategies and tools to create a clear and exciting map to help build and protect wealth.
We offer a full range of accounting, tax and business consulting services with an emphasis on income and estate tax planning.
For expert service from accountants who care about you, choose Gerety & Associates, Certified Public Accountants.


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Monthly Archives: October 2012
Moxie supper related websites
Moxie supper related websites. Please visit as often as you can! Moxie Supper thanks you –deliciously!
Moxie supper related websites
Please also visit (a primary limited fork website) http://www.4orkology.com
Please also visit a t-shirt website visit: http://www.lex97.com/
http://www.4orked.com (a flash-based site) A flash-based site is here.
For adventures in sonic experiences and many free sonic downloads, based on a presentation at
Vassar College, go here
Also visit here –another forkergirl typepad blog (a forkergirl typepad blog)
Please try these limited fork podcasts:
–and http://www.forkergirl.tumblr.com
And please check out my i-petition at:
–free to sign! the company hosting the petition may ask for donations, but YOU DON'T HAVE TO GIVE! Please help spread the word! —The Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design should also offer form of Creative Writing! –students should be able to choose traditional writing platforms: English! –or something more ". Please repost, reblog! Anything you can do will help move this machinery! –that often serves to stifle creativity espoused!


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I am talking about my about page. Now you know I don't just procrastinate for a few days but a few years, lol. Here it goes.
My real name is Kathleen (aka Lafayette Angel). My friends and family call me Kathy or Kat.
I live in the Hoosier state, Indiana.
I am 58 years old,
I have a lovely daughter named Ashley. She is 25 years old. When doctors told my ex and me our chances of having a child were slim to none. God gave us the slim chance. Ashley is our miracle baby, . This is my daughter.
My daughter drew and color the female squirrel writer I use as a avatar. My daughter is quite the artist. I had to get a brag in there, lol.
I am not a selfie person so I don't have a recent picture of myself. I do have a picture from a couple years back. I am not sure who took it but they thought it would be cute to catch me off guard. lol. The sneaks run in the family, .
Related Posts:
Good Samaritans And Blessings
Sharing A Street Called Memory Lane
What Do I Talk About Now?
My Love For Dance
I Want To Introduce You To Ricky Bishop
Uplifting Tuesday-God Bless The Good Samaritans
Being Grateful-The Little And Teen Good Samaritans
Sticky Note For Today (2-15-2015)
Remembering Some Snowing Memories
My Bucket List
Share A Smile-Family


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Schedule a
visit to HPU
The High Point University National Pan-Hellenic Council is the governing body for 4 historically African-American fraternities and sororities on High Point University's campus.
The NPHC organizations that we have on campus are the following:
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, INC
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, INC
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, INC
Lambda Pi Chi Sorority, INC*
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, INC
If you are interested in joining an NPHC organization, please email firstname.lastname@example.com
*Lambda Pi Chi is a NALFO organization. LPC is recognized at HPU under the National Pan-Hellenic Council


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Last Activity: 7 hours ago
John McClane
You ready? You look ready.
Activity Log
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Enigma. Conglomerate of Contradictions. ❤😊 Biography
In a simple state of bliss. Location
Music, movies, and philosophy. Interests
Telling people smart things. Occupation
http://toniebarde.com Home Page
Halcyon days are not a thing
Nostalgia is no excuse for stupidity
I don't believe in golden ages
Or presidents that put kids in cages
America awaits on bended knee
Bad Religion
Nostalgia is no excuse for stupidity
I don't believe in golden ages
Or presidents that put kids in cages
America awaits on bended knee
Bad Religion
57% 100 Years...100 Movies
27% 100 Years...100 Laughs
53% 100 Years...100 Thrills
15% 100 Years...100 Passions
44% 100 Years...100 Cheers
24% 100 Years of MusicalsView All Lists
Showing Comments 1 to 4 of 123
4 days agohttps://www.zzounds.com/item--GIBSSHB19?siid=246103
This link shows what my dads guitar was. Its not as shiny cause was bought for him in 1981. I just never got into a Guitar playing idea. I was into Keyboards and Drums but I was never music talented like he was. Dad Played in the Army With a Country Singer Named Faron Young. But he was never famous he just like to sing and play Hank Williams type and Gospal type songs on Guitar.
11-24-19Thank you. Yes, I'm still very active, just disinclined when it comes to uploading. I'll put up more sooner than later though.
11-20-19Yes, that's me. Haven't posted anything in a while, but it's still a semi-active account.
10-29-19I really do hear potential there. Just stick with it and keep working on interesting tones and sounds, and I think the tracks will just fall into place.
Good luck!
Avengers: Endgame 6/20/19
Avengers: Endgame is, at best, revisionist history; it wants you convinced that the MCU can be better than it ...
Blade Runner 6/19/19
"More human than human" is a motto that begs more questions than it answers...
Spirited Away 6/19/19
Spirited Away is also one of the few animated films where you surrender nothing when faced with the choice bet...
TRON: Legacy 3/13/11
This flick will spawn new and grander films to follow...
John McClane has not joined any clubs.


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When stars eat planets
This could be a preview of what will happen to Earth in a few billion years, where it'll be consumed by the sun. Courtesy: NASA
CONTINENTS fuse, galaxies collide, man dies out and the Earth plunges into the Sun.
This is what will happen in the future (but don't worry, you've got a few quintillion years yet).
We find it hard enough to plan ahead to the weekend, but some scientists have mapped out what will happen to the Earth and the universe's major events all the way to over one hundred quintillion years from now.
BBC Future created a meandering infographic based on research and hypothesis from scientists and NASA with major natural milestones laid out in front of our worrying eyes. The ambitious predictions begin around one thousand years from now, when most of our words would have become extinct, up to the moment when the Earth stops spinning and falls into the Sun.
We've plucked the biggest events worth looking out for (if you live to one hundred quadrillion years old, that is). These are all years from now:
1,000: If civilisation fails to make it another thousand years, all the buildings, dams and bridges decay and fall
1,000: Most words are extinct due to the rapid evolution of languages
2,000: Greenland ice sheet melts
5,125: Mayan time ends again. World didn't come to an end last time. Probably won't next time.
13,000: Earth's axial tilt reverses. Northern hemisphere suffers extreme weather due to higher percentage of land
20,000: Chernobyl finally safe
50,000: Niagara Falls disappears
100,000: Laptops dissolve. The titanium in MacBooks will corrode
100,000: Global disaster. A supervolcano or climate-altering asteroid would have affected the Earth by now.
1,000,000: All glass created will have degraded.
10,000,000: New ocean formed. Red sea flooded dividing Africa.
50,000,000: Australia and Indonesia merge.
250,000,000: All continents fuse to make one supercontinent.
1,000,000,000: Game over. The sun's luminosity rises by 10% evaporating the Earth's oceans.
2,800,000,000: The end of all life on Earth. Even cockroaches.
5,400,000,000: Sun's hydrogen exhausted and begins to swell into a red giant consuming nearby planets.
20,000,000,000: All matter is torn apart by the expansion of the universe. All distances become infinite.
110,000,000,000,000: All stars have died.
100,000,000,000,000,000,000 (that's one hundred quintillion years from now): Earth dies. If not already consumed by a swollen sun, the Earth's orbit will have decayed and it will plunge into the sun.


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WASHINGTON, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- The panda couple that has been living in Washington's National Zoo for the past 10 years will remain there for another five, officials say.
China agreed to an extension of the original lease, The Washington Post reported Wednesday. China also cut the fee charged the zoo, which was $1 million for the original 10-year agreement.
Tian Tian, a 13-year-old male, and Mei Xiang, his 12-year-old mate, were born at the China Research and Conservation Center for the Giant Panda and arrived in Washington Dec. 6, 2000. They have produced one cub in Washington, conceived by artificial insemination, and now back in China.
Giant pandas have been hit hard by habitat loss and a low birthrate, and are classified as an endangered species. Estimates of the wild population, found only in a few mountainous areas in China, range from about 1,800 to 3,000.
All pandas currently in U.S. zoos belong to the Chinese government.


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- BATSMENRBM4s6sSR1229381041.378.6 that's his debut wicket! He gets him to come forward to a fuller delivery outside off, Tharanga can't resist the drive, gets a thick outside edge to Boucher, no need to confirm that with the umpire, set him up nicely after bowling a series of short deliveries 35/147691016068.1123.3 how unnecessary was that? Tahir gets a wicket off his worst ball of the morning, full toss down the leg side, Dilshan got down on his knee and tried to slog it over fine leg but ended up finding Morkel a few yards in front of the rope, he could have placed that down to square leg or somewhere else 84/3037000.0010.2 and he's got another left-hander! Marchant is on a roll, bowled in the channel just outside the off stump and Sangakkara had no option but to play at it, poked his bat out and the thin edge flew to Boucher, credit to the bowler for that one 47/23158813153.4429.3 the off stump is pegged back! Morkel bends the ball back in off the pitch, Jayawardene tires to work it straighter and plays down the wrong line, big gap between pad and bat and the off stump is pushed back, Jayawardene waits to see if the bowler overstepped, all well for the bowler 117/410226935611037.91108.2 would you believe it he's holed out to deep cover! The field is spread out to give him the single, makes room and de Lange pitched it fuller, scoops it straight to Prince in the deep, timed it too well and its the best bowling figures by a debutant in 2011 338/103051665058.8244.3 he just plucked that from nowhere! de Lange can't believe what he's pulled off, he fires in a reverse swinging full toss, Mathews pushes at the ball off the toe of the bat and spoons it quickly to the bowler's right, de Lange gets his right hand out and it sticks 162/558861417067.4481.3 against the run of play! Chandimal has himself to blame for that, Morkel bowled it as wide as he could outside off and Chandimal somehow fell for the trap, stood at the crease and reached out as far as he could, thin edge and he was gone 273/61228352042.8589.3 I don't understand this but why didn't Samaraweera farm the strike in the last over? A shaky Perera fends off a short delivery on the body but ends up lobbing it towards Amla at backward short-leg 289/73054734055.55106.1 And de Lange carries on with the tradition this year of debutants taking five-wicket hauls! Comes round the wicket and bangs it in short, Herath tries to club it to the on side but skies the pull, Boucher runs forward and takes it easily 335/82440050.00106.5 Wicket No.6 is a brute of a delivery! Too much for any batsman, let alone a tailender, rising on the body and heading towards the helmet, he takes his eyes off the ball as he tries to fend it, lobs off the shoulder of the bat and lobs to Amla at short leg 337/9not out056000.00Extras14 (lb 8, nb 6)TOTAL338 all out (108.2 Overs, RR: 3.12)Fall of wickets: 1-35 (Tharanga Paranavitana, 8.6 ov), 2-47 (Kumar Sangakkara, 10.2 ov), 3-84 (Tillakaratne Dilshan, 23.3 ov), 4-117 (Mahela Jayawardene, 29.3 ov), 5-162 (Angelo Mathews, 44.3 ov), 6-273 (Dinesh Chandimal, 81.3 ov), 7-289 (Thisara Perera, 89.3 ov), 8-335 (Rangana Herath, 106.1 ov), 9-337 (Chanaka Welegedara, 106.5 ov), 10-338 (Thilan Samaraweera, 108.2 ov)
Bowling O M R W Econ WD NB DW Steyn 23 5 63 0 2.73 0 0 M Morkel 21 3 61 2 2.90 0 4 M de Lange 23.2 3 81 7 3.47 0 0 Imran Tahir 32 3 101 1 3.15 0 2 JH Kallis 9 1 24 0 2.66 0 0
- BATSMENRBM4s6sSR1538362039.478.6 edged and taken. Very poor from Smith who pushes at a length ball outside off stump. The feet went nowhere. It's a big edge and a smart catch from the keeper on debut diving away to his left hand side. 27/2713281053.847.2 oh gone! It's an awful dismissal. A poor ball, short on leg stump, Rudolph pulls it around the around the corner but can't keep it down. A very sharp grab by the fielder at long leg, diving forward, taken down low. 22/1548312910065.0636.3 and now Sri Lanka take control. A length ball outside off stump and for once Amla's lack of foot movement costs him dear. The bat away from the body, he's beaten on the inside edge and there's a tickle through to the keeper. I think Amla was late on it. 106/5037000.0010.3 goodness another one goes. It's a cracker across the righter hander, Kallis is forced to play and gets a thick edge right into the gut of second slip. A simple chance easily pouched 27/325791033031.6434.5 but the plan works. De Villiers chases a wide half volley and nicks it to second slip. It was so wide and de Villiers had to stretch so far across to reach it presenting a simple chance to the fielder 103/41124411045.8343.1 oh dear the reverse sweep produces an edge to slip. He got down low and missed the turning ball, it comes off the back pad as he's on the ground and the ball flicks the back of the bat en route to slip. 119/7314200021.4241.1 oh lovely cricket. Turn away from the Boucher poke and a simple catch to Dilshan in the gully. A ball on a lovely length had Boucher groping forward and the turn did him. 118/6not out2936622280.5543.6 ho ho! And another. Morkel goes back and gets an inside edge between his legs onto his stumps. Turn into the left hander, he was trying to play very late but the turn took the edge past his back leg and the ball is into the base of off stump 119/81119250157.8949.3 appeal for a stumping! After getting hit for a big six, Herath comes back by beating him in flight outside off, drew him forward to defend, he tries to drag his back foot back but Chandimal is too quick for him, third umpire confirms it, Tahir has to go 145/9917212052.9454.4 Welegedara gets five! Too good for the tailender, he was completely squared up on the off stump, tried to open the face of the bat to steer it but it took the thin edge to the keeper 168/10Extras4 (nb 3, w 1)TOTAL168 all out (54.4 Overs, RR: 3.07)Fall of wickets: 1-22 (Jacques Rudolph, 7.2 ov), 2-27 (Graeme Smith, 8.6 ov), 3-27 (Jacques Kallis, 10.3 ov), 4-103 (AB de Villiers, 34.5 ov), 5-106 (Hashim Amla, 36.3 ov), 6-118 (Mark Boucher, 41.1 ov), 7-119 (Ashwell Prince, 43.1 ov), 8-119 (Morne Morkel, 43.6 ov), 9-145 (Imran Tahir, 49.3 ov), 10-168 (Marchant de Lange, 54.4 ov)
Bowling O M R W Econ WD NB UWMBCA Welegedara 16.4 3 52 5 3.12 0 3 NLTC Perera 9 3 27 1 3.00 0 0 TM Dilshan 1 1 0 0 0.00 0 0 HMRKB Herath 20 7 49 4 2.45 0 0 AD Mathews 2 0 11 0 5.50 1 0 CRD Fernando 6 0 29 0 4.83 0 0
- BATSMENRBM4s6sSR922362040.908.1 Morkel's deserved that! He persists with that good length outside the off stump shaping away from the left-hander, Tharanga tries to angle that past the packed slip cordon but couldn't keep it down, Prince judges it well at 4th slip falling to his left, importantly Morkel didn't overstep! 20/243610133.331.3 a pumped up Steyn picks up his first wicket! Dilshan won't feel too proud of that, good length ball which rises a fraction, seams away and Dilshan follows it, doesn't get across enough and the tame edge goes straight to first slip 4/110819028913056.8467.1 but here's another one. Sangakkara tries to go over the top down the ground and gets it off the toe of the bat straight to Graeme Smith at deeper mid on 245/71427412051.8516.4 we have a review here. Jayawardene was padding up to a delivery that came in, always risky, it landed just back of a length and hit him above the knee roll just in line with the stumps, he was given out and he reviewed it, replays showed that it was hitting the top of the stumps, only just, but the third umpire was convinced 44/34364955067.1838.1 there's the breakthrough. A slider that Samaraweera doesn't pick, he's late on it playing back and gets an edge into his pad and onto his off stump 138/43680050.0039.5 that was totally unnecessary and South Africa gleefully accept this gift! It was really short and wide outside off and Mathews decided to pull this one, clear edge and very straightforward for Boucher, he was better off either upper cutting over slip or just leaving it alone 141/55492927058.6966.5 got him now. Much better from Steyn. A teasing line just outside the off stump, Chandimal didn't really go anywhere with the feet and got a touch squared up. It was a thin edge and Boucher took it tumbling down to his right 245/61217231070.5871.6 gone. Thisara was looking to make as many as possible while he lasted, but Steyn's nipped him out. 132 kph, in the slot just outside off, and not much sideways movement from a length short of drivable. The dismissal came about mostly due to Thisara's indiscreet driving. Again, the front foot didn't come across and he got a healthy toe-end edge as he threw his hands at it. Was looking to tonk it over point rather than drive. The ball was hurtling at pace past Kallis at second slip, but he reacted superbly to grab with both hands as he tumbled to his right. 262/8not out831480025.801071420142.8575.3 Steyn has five! Chanaka again backs away and looks to swipe, this time Steyn followed him and left him with no room. Chanaka still heaved in hope, but ended up forcing it off the inner half of the blade to square leg. SL are nine down. 276/9313130023.0778.2 Morkel has a wicket, and it is a good tail-ender's wicket. Short ball, aimed at the chest and angling in. Dilhara was on survival-first mode, staying back and holding the bat in front of the body. The ball duly thudded into the limp blade and popped up to gully. 279/10Extras11 (b 5, lb 3, nb 2, w 1)TOTAL279 all out (78.2 Overs, RR: 3.56, 344 minutes)Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Tillakaratne Dilshan, 1.3 ov), 2-20 (Tharanga Paranavitana, 8.1 ov), 3-44 (Mahela Jayawardene, 16.4 ov), 4-138 (Thilan Samaraweera, 38.1 ov), 5-141 (Angelo Mathews, 39.5 ov), 6-245 (Dinesh Chandimal, 66.5 ov), 7-245 (Kumar Sangakkara, 67.1 ov), 8-262 (Thisara Perera, 71.6 ov), 9-276 (Chanaka Welegedara, 75.3 ov), 10-279 (Dilhara Fernando, 78.2 ov)
Bowling O M R W Econ WD NB M Morkel 18.2 4 46 2 2.50 0 0 DW Steyn 20 3 73 5 3.65 0 0 M de Lange 13 2 45 1 3.46 1 1 JH Kallis 11 1 43 0 3.90 0 0 Imran Tahir 16 1 64 2 4.00 0 1
- BATSMENRBM4s6sSR22651083033.8426.4 got him! Poor stroke from Rudolph. A length ball wide of off stump, absolutely no need to play whatsoever but he's chased it, drunk on emotional thoughts of a big match-winning hundred, and got a thick outside edge. A very good catch at second slip diving high to his left to take with both hands 88/22637411070.279.5 Smoking guns! Dilhara has blasted the captain out! What a huge breach, this. Dilhara thumped that in short of a length and got it to take off on Smith, who was hopping on the crease to ride the bounce and fend it. No luck, the ball went higher than he thought and kissed the shoulder of the bat as he leaped and jabbed. It looped low in front of Mahela at second slip. Well taken, tumbling in front. Smith has a look of resignation as he walks back. That ball had his name on it. 37/15181997062.9633.2 what a shocker. Amla pushed down the ground and called for a single that was never there. Prince, rightly for me, refused, Amla was 3/4 down the track and had no chance to get back to beat the throw to the keeper 106/40717000.0029.5 Kallis sweeps and a catch pops up to short leg, the Sri Lankans are convinced, not out given, but referred. The replay shows a definite top edge onto the helmet before it loops up to the fielder. This is out...decision changed, Kallis gone for nought 97/3724410029.1638.3 Dilhara bumps out Prince! Pure brutality. Prince walks out looking helpless and desolate. Almost a replay of the Smith dismissal. Short ball thudded down short of a length and rearing up. It jumps up extra thanks to the shoulder Dilhara put into it. Even the tall Smith couldn't climb atop Dilhara's extra bounce. The short Prince had no chance. Fends it off the back foot and it pops into first slip's hands. 116/5691412046148.9383.4 Given out lbw, AB reviews it. His first reaction suggested he knew he was in trouble as soon as he was hit on the pad. He plays back to a ball that skids on with the angle. It lands outside off and hits the pad first before hitting the bat. Hits him in front of middle and off, and thudding into the furniture. Three red lights, and AB is gone. Sri Lanka will breathe a silent sigh of relief. Good stand that, was worth 99. 232/7734430020.5849.3 Caught on the crease now! Davies gives Bouch out and he reviews it. I think he's a goner. Flighted on middle and leg, and straightening down the line as Boucher presses forward. It wasn't a huge lunge, and the ball hit him on the shin. HawkEye says it was crashing into middle and leg. Gone! 133/6431251537034.4087.1 and another one bites the dust. Steyn's resistance is over. Just seemed to misread the lack of spin on this new ball - that can happen after batting for so long against an old one that was twirling around madly. He was playing down the wrong line as Herath slid this in, and by the time Steyn's bat came through to the left, the ball hit the pad in front of the stumps. 241/9510110050.0086.6 Morkel's gone. Given lbw. He wanted to review it, but South Africa are out of reviews. Tossed up on off stump, he wanders across to the off side and heaves again, but the ball was too full for him to get under. It went under the bat and hit him on the back thigh as he kneeled down to slog. Hit in front of off, crashing into middle. Kettleborough got this one dead right. 241/8not out00400-021000.0087.3 Superb scenes to sign off international cricket for 2011! Sri Lanka have won in South Africa at long last, and they are cock-a-hoop! Tossed up on the stumps and it goes straight through past de Lange's limp slog to the leg side. Stumps are disturbed by the ball, and then grabbed out by exuberant Sri Lankans. They join in a huddle in the middle. Swampy Marsh trots out with barely concealed glee on his face. A proud moment for each member in that team - they all played a part in this win. 241/10Extras11 (b 6, lb 1, nb 1, w 3)TOTAL241 all out (87.3 Overs, RR: 2.75)Fall of wickets: 1-37 (Graeme Smith, 9.5 ov), 2-88 (Jacques Rudolph, 26.4 ov), 3-97 (Jacques Kallis, 29.5 ov), 4-106 (Hashim Amla, 33.2 ov), 5-116 (Ashwell Prince, 38.3 ov), 6-133 (Mark Boucher, 49.3 ov), 7-232 (AB de Villiers, 83.4 ov), 8-241 (Morne Morkel, 86.6 ov), 9-241 (Dale Steyn, 87.1 ov), 10-241 (Marchant de Lange, 87.3 ov)
Bowling O M R W Econ WD NB UWMBCA Welegedara 16 5 33 0 2.06 1 0 NLTC Perera 13 0 48 1 3.69 0 0 CRD Fernando 13 3 29 2 2.23 2 1 TM Dilshan 11 2 35 1 3.18 0 0 HMRKB Herath 30.3 7 79 5 2.59 0 0 AD Mathews 3 0 9 0 3.00 0 0 TT Samaraweera 1 0 1 0 1.00 0 0
Match Details
Player Of The Match
Series result
Match number
Hours of play (local time)
Match days
Test debut
TV Umpires
Reserve Umpire
Match Referee
Close of Play
- Mon, 26 Dec - day 1 - Sri Lanka 1st innings 289/7 (TT Samaraweera 86*, 89.3 ov)
- Tue, 27 Dec - day 2 - Sri Lanka 2nd innings 7/1 (NT Paranavitana 0*, KC Sangakkara 3*, 2.1 ov)
- Wed, 28 Dec - day 3 - Sri Lanka 2nd innings 256/7 (NLTC Perera 6*, HMRKB Herath 5*, 70.3 ov)
- Thu, 29 Dec - day 4 - South Africa 2nd innings 241 (87.3 ov) - end of match
Match Notes
- Sri Lanka 2nd innings
- Innings Break: Sri Lanka - 279/10 in 78.2 overs (HMRKB Herath 8)
- South Africa 2nd innings
- Drinks: South Africa - 49/1 in 13.0 overs (JA Rudolph 16, HM Amla 6)
- South Africa: 50 runs in 13.5 overs (84 balls), Extras 1
- Lunch: South Africa - 86/1 in 26.0 overs (JA Rudolph 20, HM Amla 37)
- 2nd Wicket: 50 runs in 99 balls (JA Rudolph 12, HM Amla 37, Ex 2)
- Over 29.5: Review by Sri Lanka (Bowling), Umpire - SJ Davis, Batsman - JH Kallis (Upheld)
- South Africa: 100 runs in 31.4 overs (191 balls), Extras 3
- HM Amla: 50 off 77 balls (7 x 4)
- Drinks: South Africa - 116/4 in 38.0 overs (AG Prince 7, AB de Villiers 5)
- Over 45.1: Review by Sri Lanka (Bowling), Umpire - SJ Davis, Batsman - MV Boucher (Struck down)
- Over 49.3: Review by South Africa (Batting), Umpire - SJ Davis, Batsman - MV Boucher (Struck down)
- Tea: South Africa - 136/6 in 53.0 overs (AB de Villiers 17, DW Steyn 1)
- Attendance: 4,333
- South Africa: 150 runs in 57.2 overs (345 balls), Extras 6
- Over 60.5: Review by Sri Lanka (Bowling), Umpire - RA Kettleborough, Batsman - AB de Villiers (Struck down)
- 7th Wicket: 50 runs in 96 balls (AB de Villiers 30, DW Steyn 18, Ex 2)
- Drinks: South Africa - 189/6 in 68.0 overs (AB de Villiers 46, DW Steyn 23)
- South Africa: 200 runs in 70.1 overs (422 balls), Extras 7
- AB de Villiers: 50 off 105 balls (5 x 4, 1 x 6)
- New Ball Taken: South Africa 227/6 after 80.1 overs (AB de Villiers 65, DW Steyn 38)
- Over 83.4: Review by South Africa (Batting), Umpire - SJ Davis, Batsman - AB de Villiers (Struck down)
- Sri Lanka 2nd innings
- Wet Ground: Sri Lanka - 7/1 in 2.1 overs (NT Paranavitana 0, KC Sangakkara 3)
- Drinks: Sri Lanka - 33/2 in 13.0 overs (KC Sangakkara 11, DPMD Jayawardene 9)
- Over 16.4: Review by Sri Lanka (Batting), Umpire - SJ Davis, Batsman - DPMD Jayawardene (Struck down)
- Sri Lanka: 50 runs in 17.4 overs (106 balls), Extras 0
- Lunch: Sri Lanka - 65/3 in 22.0 overs (KC Sangakkara 28, TT Samaraweera 9)
- 4th Wicket: 50 runs in 82 balls (KC Sangakkara 21, TT Samaraweera 26, Ex 3)
- Sri Lanka: 100 runs in 30.5 overs (186 balls), Extras 3
- Drinks: Sri Lanka - 111/3 in 34.0 overs (KC Sangakkara 48, TT Samaraweera 33)
- KC Sangakkara: 50 off 102 balls (4 x 4)
- Sri Lanka: 150 runs in 40.6 overs (248 balls), Extras 9
- Drinks: Sri Lanka - 155/5 in 44.0 overs (KC Sangakkara 69, LD Chandimal 4)
- 6th Wicket: 50 runs in 65 balls (KC Sangakkara 30, LD Chandimal 19, Ex 1)
- Sri Lanka: 200 runs in 53.2 overs (322 balls), Extras 9
- KC Sangakkara: 100 off 161 balls (13 x 4)
- Tea: Sri Lanka - 207/5 in 56.0 overs (KC Sangakkara 101, LD Chandimal 23)
- LD Chandimal: 50 off 84 balls (6 x 4)
- 6th Wicket: 100 runs in 159 balls (KC Sangakkara 48, LD Chandimal 50, Ex 2)
- Sri Lanka: 250 runs in 68.1 overs (411 balls), Extras 10
- Bad Light: Sri Lanka - 256/7 in 70.3 overs (NLTC Perera 6, HMRKB Herath 5)
- End Of Day: Sri Lanka - 256/7 in 70.3 overs (NLTC Perera 6, HMRKB Herath 5)
- South Africa 2nd innings
- Attendance: 3,181
- Sri Lanka 1st innings
- Over 90.1: Review by South Africa (Bowling), Umpire - SJ Davis, Batsman - TT Samaraweera (Struck down)
- Sri Lanka: 300 runs in 96.1 overs (582 balls), Extras 13
- Drinks: Sri Lanka - 322/7 in 104.0 overs (TT Samaraweera 98, HMRKB Herath 20)
- TT Samaraweera: 100 off 265 balls (11 x 4)
- Innings Break: Sri Lanka - 338/10 in 108.2 overs (CRD Fernando 0)
- South Africa 1st innings
- Lunch: South Africa - 15/0 in 6.0 overs (GC Smith 11, JA Rudolph 4)
- South Africa: 50 runs in 18.2 overs (112 balls), Extras 2
- Drinks: South Africa - 55/3 in 20.0 overs (HM Amla 22, AB de Villiers 9)
- 4th Wicket: 50 runs in 98 balls (HM Amla 31, AB de Villiers 18, Ex 2)
- HM Amla: 50 off 69 balls (10 x 4)
- South Africa: 100 runs in 31.1 overs (189 balls), Extras 3
- Tea: South Africa - 100/3 in 34.0 overs (HM Amla 52, AB de Villiers 23)
- Over 37.5: Review by Sri Lanka (Bowling), Umpire - RA Kettleborough, Batsman - AG Prince (Struck down)
- Drinks: South Africa - 132/8 in 46.0 overs (DW Steyn 13, Imran Tahir 0)
- South Africa: 150 runs in 50.3 overs (306 balls), Extras 4
- Innings Break: South Africa - 168/10 in 54.4 overs (DW Steyn 29)
- Sri Lanka 2nd innings
- Bad Light: Sri Lanka - 7/1 in 2.1 overs (NT Paranavitana 0, KC Sangakkara 3)
- End Of Day: Sri Lanka - 7/1 in 2.1 overs (NT Paranavitana 0, KC Sangakkara 3)
- South Africa 2nd innings
- Attendance: 7,292
- Sri Lanka 1st innings
- Drinks: Sri Lanka - 48/2 in 13.0 overs (TM Dilshan 32, DPMD Jayawardene 0)
- Sri Lanka: 50 runs in 13.6 overs (84 balls), Extras 4
- Sri Lanka: 100 runs in 26.3 overs (160 balls), Extras 5
- Lunch: Sri Lanka - 112/3 in 28.0 overs (DPMD Jayawardene 27, TT Samaraweera 17)
- Sri Lanka: 150 runs in 40.5 overs (248 balls), Extras 11
- Drinks: Sri Lanka - 152/4 in 41.0 overs (TT Samaraweera 31, AD Mathews 20)
- Tea: Sri Lanka - 197/5 in 57.0 overs (TT Samaraweera 40, LD Chandimal 26)
- Sri Lanka: 200 runs in 57.5 overs (350 balls), Extras 11
- TT Samaraweera: 50 off 115 balls (6 x 4)
- 6th Wicket: 50 runs in 97 balls (TT Samaraweera 19, LD Chandimal 30, Ex 1)
- Drinks: Sri Lanka - 245/5 in 72.1 overs (TT Samaraweera 67, LD Chandimal 46)
- Sri Lanka: 250 runs in 73.1 overs (443 balls), Extras 12
- LD Chandimal: 50 off 72 balls (7 x 4)
- 6th Wicket: 100 runs in 188 balls (TT Samaraweera 46, LD Chandimal 52, Ex 2)
- New Ball Taken: Sri Lanka 273/5 after 80.1 overs (TT Samaraweera 82, LD Chandimal 58)
- End Of Day: Sri Lanka - 289/7 in 89.3 overs (TT Samaraweera 86)
- South Africa 2nd innings
- Attendance: 13,042
Match CoverageAll Match News
Amla has chance to banish bad memories
Hashim Amla remembers when Sri Lanka pulled off their only win on South African soil. His reputation undermined by a poor tour of Australia, he has reason to make them pay.
Barren, then Durban
Sri Lanka had a mostly forgettable year on the field and off it, save for a glimmer at the end
'We choked them really nicely' - Jayasuriya
Sanath Jayasuriya believes Sri Lanka's historic win over South Africa in Durban could rival their triumph over England at the Oval 13 years ago as the country's most significant victory outside the subcontinent.
South Africa's batting has the yips
They're being badly impeded by the perplexing inability of their strong line-up to fire together
Rudolph, Prince put on notice for decider
Jacques Rudolph and Ashwell Prince, the two most under-pressure South Africa batsmen, have been put on notice after Alviro Petersen was retained in the squad for the deciding Test
|South Africa INNINGS
|JA Rudolph
|GC Smith
|HM Amla
|run out
|JH Kallis
|AG Prince
|AB de Villiers
|MV Boucher
|DW Steyn
|M Morkel
|Imran Tahir
|not out
|M de Lange
|(b 6, lb 1, w 3, nb 1)
|241 (all out; 87.3 ovs)
|Sri Lanka BOWLING
|UWMBCA Welegedara
|NLTC Perera
|CRD Fernando
|(1nb, 2w)
|TM Dilshan
|HMRKB Herath
|AD Mathews
|TT Samaraweera
South Africa 4th innings Partnerships
|JA Rudolph
|GC Smith
|JA Rudolph
|HM Amla
|JH Kallis
|HM Amla
|AG Prince
|HM Amla
|AG Prince
|AB de Villiers
|MV Boucher
|AB de Villiers
|AB de Villiers
|DW Steyn
|DW Steyn
|M Morkel
|Imran Tahir
|DW Steyn
|Imran Tahir
|M de Lange


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(706) 864-0743
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Cut the chicken fillets in half horizontally. Drizzle with olive oil and season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat a pan over high heat and fry the chicken for 2 minutes per side, or until just done. Cover in foil for a few minutes until ready to serve.Salsa:Toss together the tomatoes, olives, herbs, olive oil and vinegar. Serve with the chicken on a bed of couscous or creamy polenta.Text and image source: Ideas magazine.To receive quick and convenient weekday recipes, join our Easy Weekday Meals mailing list, and for up-to-date trending food, restaurant and wine news subscribe to our Editor's Weekly newsletter.
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It seems like just yesterday that Google launched its AdWords advertising platform.
Actually, it was more like January of 2000, and those AdWords ads weren't auction-based, self-serve or even pay-per-click (PPC). And they weren't very profitable.
In the first year of its operation, Adwords ad revenue was not even a third of Overture's, a company that ran its ads using a PPC model. Overture was eventually acquired by Yahoo!
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Fast forward to fiscal year-end 2013, when Google's revenues stand just shy of $60 billion, with most of that money coming from AdWords.
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It's a Mad App World
The Gartner research firm estimates that total app downloads for 2014 will reach over 138 billion; for 2013, app downloads came in at 102 billion. While many of these apps are free, significant revenue (as in $26 billion for 2013) is generated thanks to in app purchases (IAPs). Another significant revenue chunk comes from… yep, app advertising. As in online advertising.
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One current issue with app installs, as noted by Google, is that 80% of downloaded apps are used just once before being deleted. Google's upcoming app promotion feature will include "app deep linking," which will direct app installers to pages on an app that will hopefully encourage longer and better app use (and IAPs).
What this means for you
If you have an app that you've been trying to develop or that's been on your list of to-do items, consider this latest Google announcement as your wakeup call and get moving. Apps are a big and lucrative business- just ask Pat Flynn.
Enterprise-Class Tools
The launch of "enterprise-class tools," as quipped by Jerry Dischler, the VP of Product Management for AdWords, means that Google wants to target big businesses with deep pockets.
One of the major pain points for big businesses trying to create AdWords ads is that the process is tedious. To begin with, there is the actual ad campaign generation. Great. But let's say the business is seasonal and wants to edit all its ads to say "Summer Sale" instead of "Winter Sale." It's no small feat to change thousands of ads to such a format.
To address this issue, upcoming AdWords ads will be equipped with a bulk edit function. The question remains as to how different and/or better this feature will be compared to Google Editor, however.
Google's enterprise-class tools will also enable advertisers to maximize their conversions as well as their highest value conversions via an automated bidding function. This means that an ad budget can automatically allot a greater percentage of funds to those campaigns that are generating a higher number of sales or higher dollar sales. This is especially useful if the cost-per-click (CPC) for certain ads is high.
In order to keep advertisers on the AdWords platform, enterprise-class tools will also offer a way to format, graph and chart campaign results as they are generated. Advertisers will be able to save and export these results.
Finally, and perhaps most exciting of all, is Google's announcement that its tools will soon feature a live laboratory that will allow advertisers to test ad campaigns before they are launched (i.e., cost money). The lab will enable advertisers to test different versions of their ad copies and formats, keywords, bids, times, locations, etc. using live traffic in the experiment.
What this means for you
You may have assumed that, just because you're not running thousands of ad campaigns, the enterprise-class tools don't apply to you. However, the aforementioned features of these tools can be quite useful for anyone who is testing and running ads. Furthermore, being able to actually live-test ads before their launch can mean huge cost savings for any size ad campaign.
On a side note, due to the very real inconvenience of bulk editing and data analysis, a large pool of third-party software tools has already emerged over the years to help advertisers. The question remains: Will Google's new enterprise-class tools replace those third-party tools or not?
Improved Conversion Tracking
In 2013, Google came out with something called Estimated Total Conversions, which enabled advertisers to better determine how many and what level of conversions they were achieving across different devices like mobile phone, tablets and desktop computers. Obviously, one of the big pain points with tracking conversions is how to tell if consumer interest sparked on a user's mobile phone translated to an eventual purchase on his laptop, for example.
New updates will be made to Estimated Total Conversions to better account for where in the process of a consumer sale the advertising comes into play. This is especially tricky when accounting for offline sales.
Of course, this also brings into question how much user privacy will be sacrificed to obtain such information. Currently, data mining of existing customers obtains the most relevant information on purchases and shopping behavior. It remains to be seen how Google will work around this thorny (i.e., litigious) issue.
What this means for you
As an advertiser, you might be enthusiastic about finding out deeper information about your customers. However, as a customer, are you happy to know that Google might be tracking your shopping trips? One need only to think back on the Target store teen pregnancy case to get spooked.
And this free video will show you exactly everything you need to do to get started. Click here to watch it now.
AdWords Ads and You
AdWords ads may not be an advertising platform you are currently using, but that doesn't mean you can't still reap their benefits. If you generate an AdWords account through Google, you gain access to a lot of the tools that are available to advertisers, including the Keyword Planner. With Google's upcoming live laboratory, you may actually be able to try all kinds of ads without paying a single penny. Then there's the conversion tracking feature, which can tell you exactly where you should be spending your advertising money.
And that's just the start of what Google's AdWords ad platform offers.