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Occupy the Press
Is economic collapse a real threat?
Occupy Art
Foxes Den
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Hold the Gold
Silver and Gold prices have been through the roof over the past year and It is possible that another drop is soon going to be taking place in the market in a matter of days due to CME lowering their margin calls. The truth is that it is not really a time to gamble and sell your physical now in the hopes that maybe you can buy at a lower price and then maybe double or triple your physical holdings when the price does fall. These prices are manipulated day to day and I do not believe accurately reflect the true value of these metals. I believe that the true value lies some where in the 4000 dollar mark for gold and silver to be easily around 250 or so. In other words I do believe that within the next year or so we will see these prices. Take the advice of Pastor Dowell among countless others from YouTube who have been calling gold and silver for years. A crash in the market is just a great oppurtunity to further invest in what will be the best hedge against the inevitable dollar collapse that awaits us. Maybe you can take a gamble and sale your gold and silver but why do that when the truth is nothing in our policy, political system, or even economical situation has truley improved. Selling your physical assets now may mean that in actuality you do not ever get a chance to get them back at a cheaper prices if it just so happens that the market does not drop out from under these metals at all. In fact they may very well spike instantly upon slowly decending, leaving thousands of people who sold their metals, left out of the Gold and Silver bubble that will eventually expand much faster. The gold and silver community does not recommend taking such a chance. Any gold or silver you have in your pocket is worth far more than anyone is going to be willing to pay for it at this moment. On the flip side you can buy gold and silver at a huge discount no matter what your paying for it at recent prices because truthfully it is way undervalued. Act Wisely.
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Welcome to InvisiClean's new website
Our website has been up since November but we are officially launching our new website today with this post! InvisiClean has some exciting and innovative products coming so stay tuned and make sure to sign up for our newsletter for exclusive sales and notifications of when we launch new products. InvisiClean's goal is to manufacture safe and effective products to improve your family's life. Our main focus is True HEPA air purifiers and ultrasonic cleaners so be sure to check out our products and let us know what you think!
Also don't forget to take advantage of our Christmas sale. Use coupon XMAS10 and get an additional 10% off the entire store. Shipping is FREE sitewide!

subset: commoncrawl


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I've been told that the subjects we usually discuss here are boring to many readers. With that in mind, it's nice to be able to post something funny (ok, it's probably still boring). I recently read a story on naked capitalism about a Florida consumer levying on the assets of Bank of America to satisfy an attorney's fee award. The bank instituted a foreclosure case that it shouldn't have (hard to believe, I know), because the house they were seeking to foreclosure had actually been purchased cash. The homeowner obtained an attorney's fee award based on the meritless lawsuit, but the bank didn't pay (again, shocking). As a result, the homeowner invoked its rights under Chapter 56, Florida Statutes, which we encourage our creditor clients to consider under certain circumstances, and sent the sheriff to a local bank branch to levy upon the property there. At that point, as I understand it, the bank manager cut a check for the attorney's fees. The story is funny to me, because it represents a reversal of the roles typically played by consumers and institutions; but there is also a lesson to be learned from it: creditors and debtors alike need to be mindful of their rights and available remedies.
Read more detail on Recent Business Law Posts –


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1/2 cup quinoa
1 (15 ounce) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed well
4 small scallions, chopped
2 Roma tomatoes, diced
1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
salt and pepper, to taste
4 large red peppers
4 or 5 zucchini, chopped coarsely
4 slices vegan cheese, divided
1. Bring 1/2 cup water to boil, add quinoa, stir, turn off heat and cover for 15 minutes. In a bowl, combine beans, scallions, tomatoes, and spices.
2. Preheat oven to 475 degrees F. Take peppers and cut the tops off about 1" down. Clean them out. Add the cooked quinoa to the bean mixture and combine. Pack the mixture tightly into the peppers and place in a dish for baking.
3. Pack zucchini around the peppers to keep them standing. Fold the vegan cheese slices until small 1/4 size squares. Place cheese on top of pepper and put the top back on.
4. Take 3 toothpicks and push them down the pepper through the lid to anchor into the pepper base. Bake 20 minutes uncovered, then cover for 20-30 more minutes, until done.
It was wonderful, even better the next day.


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Love at first sight! The unique shape of C3 sets itself apart with a charismatic front face and generous curves which give it a powerful and energetic stance. Its smooth lines, its graphic signature and its colours make it a trendy and "pop" model. With Citroën C3, free yourself and go with today's trends!
Thanks to its limited length (under 4 m), C3 is particularly agile and easy to handle, which is very noticeable in town.
It has 5 doors and 5 seats, which makes it practical in all circumstances!
• Length: 3.99 m
• Width: 1,74 m
• Height: 1.47 m
• Wheelbase: 2.54 m
• Boot volume: 300 l
The Airbump® panels (air-filled bumps with a scratch-proof surface, as seen on C4 Cactus) are a Citroën signature feature, offering personality and style, as well as protecting the vehicle.
The thermoplastic polyurethane material used in the Airbump® panels resists everyday degradation, protecting them from sunlight, water, scratches etc.
Each panel positions a line of air-filled bumps at the bottom of the doors to protect the most vulnerable areas of the car in the urban environment.


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What are your office hours?
My work schedule can very greatly as I have weekend Research & Information Desk assignments and assorted meetings. However, I try to make myself available in my office during late afternoons and early evening.....usually around 3:00 to 7:00 PM. Occasionally, I am available at other hours as well. Feel free to knock on the door if you see me there during those hours. Also, I monitor my email religiously, and so email is an excellent way to contact me. You can ask to arrange for an appointment, or submit a detailed question via email. Often I can quickly respond with advise, links, or document attachments. I look forward to meeting with you!
My telephone number is 218-726-6157
My email address is firstname.lastname@example.com
My office is in Room 272 of the Kathryn A. Martin Library [see map]
If you have questions or are encoutnering problems, please contact me
Last Update: July 24, 2020


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This sleeveless bodysuit has a slim fit. What sets it apart is the high collar studded with snap buttons, which falls on the bust to create a delicate interplay of waves. The perfect partner for skirts and high-heeled sandals.
Shipping & Returns
Customer Care
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- Model height and size: |177 cm|40 -


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Guess what? We're going to talk about orgasms. Specifically, the female orgasm.
Why? Orgasms are just as important to a woman's health as using dental floss. You want to experience them to their fullest, but you can't do that unless you're in the know about what exactly a female orgasm is, how you reach your climax, and what happens to your body when it experiences one.
So now's the time to expand your knowledge. This is everything you ever wanted to know about an orgasm, and hopefully your next sexual experience will be your best one yet.
1. Orgasms can relieve pain.
When you have a headache, it's pretty common to go to bed. But you shouldn't be sleeping. "There is some evidence that orgasms can relieve all kinds of pain, including pain from arthritis, pain after surgery, and even pain during childbirth," says Lisa Stern, R.N., a nurse practitioner who works with Planned Parenthood in Los Angeles. It's largely due to the body's release of oxytocin during orgasm, a chemical that facilitates bonding, relaxation, and other positive emotional states, she explains. While the pain relief is often short-lived at about 8-10 minutes, Stern says that past research indicates even thinking about sex can help alleviate pain. Sex dreams, anyone?
2. Using a condom doesn't hamper your orgasm.
A lot of people think that because sex can often feel better without a condom that their orgasm will too. But that's not the case. "Women are equally likely to experience orgasm with or without a condom," says Debby Herbenick, Ph.D., a research scientist at Indiana University and author of Because It Feels Good. "In fact, condoms may help a couple spend more time having sex, as a man doesn't have to 'pull out' quickly if he's worried about ejaculating too soon." If he's resistant to wearing a condom because of lack of sensation, consider manual or oral stimulation before intercourse.
3. It's not easy for women to reach orgasm.
If you've ever had trouble climaxing, you're not alone. According to recent research, 10-40% of women report having difficulty or an inability to reach orgasm. One of the best ways to fix that is through clitoral stimulation, Stern says. But medical treatment can also help, as some women suffering from female sexual dysfunction (FSD) may find topical testosterone therapies or oral medications to be helpful. Unfortunately, there isn't a ton of solid medical evidence behind these treatments yet, which is why it's important for researchers to keep digging. In the meantime, anyone experiencing difficulty should talk to their doctor as FSD can be associated with other medical conditions, including thyroid disease, depression, and diabetes.
4. It's important to find your G-spot.
Sex experts have long touted this area of female genitalia, which is believed to contain a large number of nerve endings, as the key to helping women achieve longer and stronger orgasms. But it's a controversial topic: Researchers in England have refuted its existence, while Italian researchers claimed to have found the spot on various women via ultrasound. Regardless, sex educators, like Los Angeles–based Ava Cadell, support the existence of the G-spot and encourage women to find theirs. Its location may be slightly different in all women, but most often it's found inside the vagina and is characterized by a "rougher" texture, she says.
5. Orgasm gets better with age.
There are plenty of things to gripe about when it comes to age, but your sex life isn't one of them. It turns out that as you get older, the quality and frequency of orgasms can improve, Dr. Herbenick says. "[A recent survey showed that] 61 percent of women ages 18 to 24 experienced orgasm the last time they had sex, 65 percent of women in their 30s did, and about 70 percent of women in their 40s and 50s did."
While the survey didn't indicate why exactly orgasms become easier with age, Dr. Herbenick says that it's likely because older women are more sexually experienced, have more confidence in the bedroom, and aren't afraid to speak up for what they want. There may also be more trust and intimacy involved if you're in a long-term relationship, which can allow a woman to relax more and embrace the ride on the way to orgasm.
6. Mixing things up can help.
If you have trouble reaching orgasm during intercourse, consider switching things up, Dr. Herbenick says. "It is significantly easier for women to experience orgasm when they engage in a variety of sex acts as opposed to just one act," she says. "For example, vaginal sex plus oral sex would be linked to a higher likelihood of orgasm than either one of them alone." And remember, intercourse isn't the only way to reach an orgasm — many women get off by using sex toys, either with their partners or totally solo.
7. Your self-esteem matters.
Research shows that how a woman feels about herself — including her genitalia — is linked to the quality of her orgasms. "As a women's health clinician, I can vouch for the fact that every vagina looks different and there is no 'perfect' way for a vagina to look," Stern says. "As long as your vagina is pain-free and you don't have any abnormal discharge, sores or other medical problems, you can consider yourself healthy and normal."
To increase your confidence (and therefore your orgasm potential), Stern says it's important to talk to yourself in a positive, healthy manner, especially when thinking about your body. One way to do that? Look in the mirror every day and say one thing you like about your body. (No repeats from the day before!) Another trick: Pull out a hand mirror and take a look at what's going on downstairs. Getting to know every part of yourself is the first step toward feeling confident all over.
8. It may take more than 20 minutes to orgasm.
Many women take longer to climax than their male partners, and that's perfectly normal, Stern says. In fact, most women require at least 20 minutes of sexual activity to climax. "If you find that your partner often reaches orgasm before you do, there are ways to help him slow down, like applying firm pressure around the base of the penis," she says. If premature ejaculation is a concern, Stern recommends seeing a primary care doctor or urologist to find alternative techniques that can help.
9. Orgasm can happen without genital stimulation.
We've all heard about women who can orgasm while sitting on a train and wondered if it was actually possible. Experts say it is, and Stern even knows a woman who had an orgasm every time she used the treadmill. "The reason for spontaneous orgasms during certain activities is twofold — increased blood flow to the genitals and vibration of or contact with the clitoris," Stern says. Unfortunately, this phenomenon is pretty rare, she adds, so if it hasn't happened to you already, it's not likely to start.
10. There's no point in faking it.
A recent study showed that, when it comes to orgasm, 80 percent of women have faked it at some point or another. That needs to stop, as doing so doesn't do anyone any good. Faking it means your partner doesn't learn what you like and don't like, and you'll end up regularly finishing sack sessions feeling unsatisfied.


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LOS ANGELES, Nov. 8, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mundus Group, Inc. (PinkSheets:MNDP) subsidiary AirStar International is a leading U.S. manufacturer of UAV VTOL Drones providing night tracking capabilities from unheard and unseen UAV CamCopters with GPS autonomous flight, thermal imaging and advanced optics in service with government agencies. Of immediate interest is protection of Canadian oil and gas infrastructure and specifically the current Canadian national threat from environmental terrorist activity at Dawson Creek, British Columbia. A reward of $1 Mil U.S.$ has been posted and the recurring threat is by certain "Green" terrorist extremists, who claim to blow up Canadian oil pipeline and cause environmental damage and a national disaster.
On September 17, 2009, according to the Mundus Group employee and AirStar CamCopter operator, Brett Nelson and representative engineers in the Canadian British Columbian Environmental Ministry (working as partners in Altitude Inc, a Canadian aerial photography business using AirStar UAV Camera Ships exclusively), the Canadian Govt. Dawson Creek UAV Demonstration AirStar successfully performed all of its capabilities.
Canadian Government National Joint Forces UAV VTOL Presentation
Mundus Group employee Brett Nelson and Daniel St. Gelais from Altitude Inc., gave a presentation before top representatives of the Canadian government's multi agency task force including:
- 2nd in Command of National Security
- Urban Task Force
- Border Patrol
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police
- Vancouver Equimo Naval Base commander
- Canadian Navy Seals
- Special Ops group
We are in an excellent position to provide a solution to the Dawson Creek, British Columbia threat as we have had several Canadian citizens and police contact AirStar over the last year. AirStar International Inc., is a U.S. manufacturer of UAV (unmanned air vehicle) with niche applications for mining, oil and gas industries as well as environmental compliance and protection. www.airstaruav.com
Sources: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2008–09_British_Columbia_pipeline_bombings
About Mundus Group, Inc.:
The Mundus Group, Inc. (PinkSheets:MNDP) is an advanced aerospace technology consortium providing patented Vertical Take Off and Landing (VTOL) technology for experimental aircraft and Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAV) since 1990 through its fully owned VTOL division, Roadable Aircraft International (RAI). From US Navy co-developed UAVs for aerial observation and environmental testing to advanced VTOL aerospace technology for civilian and military uses, Mundus Group, Inc. with its acquisition Airstar Intl., a leader in unmanned air vehicles and remote controlled VTOL's is developing revolutionary products with global potential for change that offers economic protection and growth opportunities for investors. Mundus is at the cutting edge of jet turbine-ducted fan technology and fuses a state of the art design engineering and a prototyping facility with computer assisted auto flight technologies, Remote Controlled (RC) and composite technologies industry segments.
© Copyright 2012, GlobeNewswire, Inc. All Rights Reserved


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(The Root) — Rep. Charlie Rangel has managed to hold on to his seat in Congress for now, after a short and tense Democratic primary race in which his victory was by no means considered a sure bet. A redrawn district that is majority Latino, health problems and a recent House censure for ethics violations were all elements that threatened to loosen the grip he has had for 42 years on his seat in Congress. But the strongest challenger in New York's 15th congressional district, New York state Sen. Adriano Espaillat, was unable to leverage his own strong ties in the heavily Latino Bronx sections of the redrawn district to topple Rangel.
With 84 percent of the precincts reporting and Rangel leading Espaillat 45 percent to 40 percent, the Associated Press called the race for Rangel. Running a distant third was Clyde Williams, a former Clinton-administration official. A win in the heavily Democratic district all but ensures that Rangel will prevail in the general election.
In his victory speech, Rangel spoke of unity between the Bronx and Manhattan portions of his district. As for the naysayers, "I hate to disappoint my opponents for misjudging the importance of medical science," quipped the 82-year-old, who struggled with back problems earlier this year. Taking shots at the editorial boards at newspapers — the New York Times and the Daily News both endorsed Clyde Williams — Rangel called them "very strange people."
"If they didn't think after 42 years that I was the best qualified, I promise them that in the next two years they'll have no question about the fact that you elected the best," he told cheering supporters at Sylvia's, a famous soul food restaurant in Harlem.
Hakeem Jeffries Takes Fast Track to Congress
Elsewhere in New York City, State Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries was declared the winner over City Councilman Charles Barron in the primary race for Rep. Ed Towns' seat in Brooklyn's 8th Congressional District. Jeffries' victory in a heavily Democratic district all but guarantees that he will win the general election. Towns is set to retire at the end of his 15th term.
Sheryl Huggins Salomon is senior editor-at-large of The Root and a Brooklyn, N.Y.-based editorial consultant. Follow her on Twitter.


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HRPP Document:
Effective Date:
Revision Date:
4/10/07, 2/5/10
UAB Policy on Repositories of Human Tissue and Databanks
It is UAB policy that repositories of human data or tissues involving the collection, storage, and distribution of information or materials for research will operate in accordance with applicable human subjects regulations (e.g., 45 CFR Part 46) and related guidance and HIPAA privacy and security regulations. Operations of a repository and its data management center for non-exempt research will be subject to oversight by the IRB. The IRB will review and approve a protocol specifying the conditions under which data and specimens may be accepted and shared, and will ensure adequate measures are employed to protect the privacy of subjects and maintain the confidentiality of the data. (See also: PRO135 Procedure for Repositories of Human Tissue and Databanks; SUP411 UAB INFORMATION DISCLOSURE AND CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY; SUP425 UAB DATA PROTECTION AND SECURITY POLICY.)
Approved on March 1, 2010, by:
Richard B. Marchase, PhD
Vice President for Research and Economic Development
Ferdinand Urthaler, MD
IRB Chair
Sheila Deters Moore, CIP
OIRB Director


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Home Entertainment
- All Home Entertainment
- Home Theatre Seating
- Media Consoles, Wall Units, & TV Stands
Arlenbry Gray
Bellaby Whitewash
Camiburg Warm Brown
Chanceen Dark Brown
Dorrinson Two-tone
Flynnter Medium Brown
Gavelston Black
Harlinton Warm Gray
Havalance Two-tone
Juararo Dark Brown
Lettner Light Gray
Noorbrook Black
Rollynx Black
Shay Almost Black
Starmore Brown/Gunmetal
Townser Grayish Brown
Trinell Brown
Willowton Whitewash
Wynnlow Gray
Wystfield White/Brown
Bal Harbour
Costa Mesa
Cyrus Home Theater
Build your own home theater; whether it is side by side recliners or recliner-wedge-recliner, this versatile theater group is perfect for any size theater room. 3 year warranty.
Home Office : Bookcases
Living Room : TV Consoles
Pavillion Home Theater
Designed for premium style and comfort, this theater seating collection has a beautiful design with black and metal chrome cup holders. 3 year warranty.
Toohey Home Theater
With a modular design and contemporary style, our Toohey home theater collection is the perfect addition for any entertainment room or living room. Wrapped in a black leather-like vinyl, each push back recliner offers ample seating space, a comfortable headrest and arm rests. Add a console between recliners to add two cup holders and a wooden table surface for added convenience. Create a home theater that fits your needs and wants!
Loft Brown Collection
Maya Collection
Pueblo Black
Pueblo White
San Angelo
Vintage White
Cannon Valley
East Hampton
Kona Grove
Madison County
Madison County
Farmhouse Chic
Home Accents
The Home Accents Collection offers the perfect piece to tie together your home. Whether it is a pair of stools or a sleek set of occasional tables. Purchased individually, or together, there's simply something that's just right for every shopper's home décor. This collection not only offers you a wide variety of products but a product made of natural long-lasting solid wood!
The Home Accents Collection offers the perfect piece to tie together your home. Whether it is a pair of stools or a sleek set of occasional tables. Purchased individually, or together, there's simply something that's just right for every shopper's home décor. This collection not only offers you a wide variety of products but a product made of natural long-lasting solid wood!
Abbey (328-ENTW)
Alexandria (722-ENT)
Arbor Place (575-BR)
Aspen Skies (416-OT)
Carriage Court (709-BR)
Dockside II (469-OT)
Grandpas Cabin (175-BR)
Grandpas Cabin (175-YBR)
Harbor View (631-ENTW)
Haven Hall (685-ENTW)
Heartland (824-ENTW)
Heatherbrook (422-ENTW)
Lake House (110-OT)
Lake House (210-OT)
Lakeside (695-ENT)
Lakeside (695W-ENT)
Lancaster (612-ENTW)
Magnolia Manor (244-BR)
Magnolia Manor (244-ENT)
Magnolia Manor (244-ENTW)
Magnolia Manor (244-OT)
Messina Estates (737-BR)
Mirrored Reflections (874-ENTW)
Modern Farmhouse (406-ENTW)
Modern Farmhouse (406W-ENTW)
Morgan Creek (498-ENTW)
Rustic Traditions (589-BR)
Rustic Traditions II (689-BR)
Summer House I (607-BR)
Sun Valley (439-ENTW)
Tanners Creek (686-ENTW)
Sophistication in design can be seen in many forms. Sometimes it appears in intricate details and patterns. Sometimes it's sleek and shiny. It can also be expressed as strong, simple and understated. Arcadia is certainly the latter. Modern Rustic at its best, with a charismatic warm finish and dramatic rubbed hardware, Arcadia radiates comfortable, simple sophistication.
Ashton Place
The American styled Ashton Place group has all the understated charm and appeal of rich, traditional furniture. This group is finely crafted with Poplar solids and quality veneers in a warm, cherry finish with antique bronzed hardware.
It takes a special combination of sensory stimuli to create that warm feeling of peaceful relaxation. This casual contemporary collection contributes to that recipe with its simple, handsome lines, eye pleasing finish and overall aesthetic appeal. Avana helps put you there .relaxed and at home.
Mixing classic Scandinavian minimalist design with an earthy, natural wood species and clean brushed nickel hardware, the Avondale pops with its crisp Charcoal finish over Knotty Alder solids and veneers
Iron accents on exotic Acacia solids and veneers put this traditionally styled group in class all of its own. The Barclay is a striking group that will capture the attention and imagination of all who behold.
Rustic charm is the language that Bozeman speaks. Traditionally styled in a hand hewed aged whiskey finish, this charmer is made with Knotty Alder solids and veneers and features rustic bronze knobs.
The charisma that elegant, traditionally styled furniture exudes lives with Brentwood. A deep Danish cherry finish and antiqued brass knobs on quality hardwoods and select veneers speak to the refined heart.
Industrial at its best, this reinforced expression is embraced by metal grating, ornamental industrial cart wheels and seasoned chalkboard door panels on Knotty Alder with a Barnwood finish. Make a style statement with Cargo.
Sleek and Sophisticated, Celino's simplicity is her beauty. A raised glass top appears to float on brushed nickel posts giving off a smart, modern vibe.
City Loft
Simplicity in form and function. City Loft offers an upscale urban feel with value pricing. Built with Oak solids and veneers with a classic golden Oak finish
Colonial Place
The American styled Colonial Place group has all the understated charm and appeal of rich, traditional furniture. This group is finely crafted with Oak solids and veneers in a classic golden Oak finish with antique bronzed hardware
The classy cottage look is all the rage in social media, magazines and home improvement television. The Cottage collection captures the essence of that movement, in multiple finishes, to transform your living space into a cozy, comfortable, on trend habitat.
Wildly popular, warehouse or barn style doors and other rustic metal accents have become a staple in many homes across America. Reminiscent of simpler times, their appeal is understandable and undeniable. This group is available in multiple finishes with functional forged iron hardware and rolling doors on some pieces. Bring "The Look" home today with Farmhouse.
Rustic charm is the language that Greyson speaks. Traditionally styled in a hand hewed Barnwood finish, this charmer is made with Knotty Alder solids and veneers and features rustic bronze knobs.
Jackson Hole
Necessity met simplicity and they hit it off beautifully in this charming, casual rustic group. Lightly patinaed corrugated metal door panels set inside a solid Knotty Alder frame give Jackson Hole all the charm of its namesake.
Joshua Creek
Hand hewed Barnwood finish over rustic, Knotty Alder solids and veneers juxtaposed against clean, simple contemporary lines create the stunning good looks of Joshua Creek. This group will seamlessly work its way into your heart and into your home.
Landon Springs
Statements about current fashion trends rarely contain the word "traditional". Middleton makes that statement without words. Its casual nod to the styles of yesteryear reflect the relaxed lifestyle it emulates. Go ahead .put your feet up .you're home.
Hand hewed Barnwood finish over rustic, Knotty Alder solids and veneers juxtaposed against clean, simple contemporary lines create the stunning good looks of Mullholland
Sleek and Sophisticated, Novella's simplicity is her beauty. A raised glass top appears to float on brushed nickel posts giving off a smart, modern vibe.
Oak Creek
Destressed golden Oak solids and veneers support slate colored ceramic tiles crafting a dramatic expression that is sure to impress. In a world full of similarity, Oak Creek stands alone.
Pacific Heights
Only the best of the best in a gorgeous modern home resting on a majestic cliff, overlooking the ocean. .or in your own beautiful home, showcasing your great personal taste. Pacific Heights suggests a clear sense of style for the discerning decorator, setting off the entire room with its presence.
This stately collection is scaled to impress. Parliament's deep burnished chestnut finish is accompanied by detailed antique brass hardware.
The Riverton collection has all the understated charm and appeal of traditional coastal furniture. An antique white finish on Poplar solids and quality veneers with aged bronze knobs complete the statement.
Straight forward design and a fine whiskey finish on Knotty Alder come together to create this dynamic group. Set off with flat black hardware, the natural beauty of the wood comes alive in the Sausalito.
The appeal that sturdy, traditionally styled furniture radiates resides with Scottsdale. A beautiful golden finish and antiqued brass tassels on Oak solids and veneers speak directly to the bold heart.
Big and bold, the Skyline group is fashioned with over scaled solid Oak moldings and premium, exotic veneers with a rich Mocha finish forming an exciting urban feel that can live anywhere.
Highly reminiscent of the industrial revolution, this collection makes a statement in style. Storehouse incorporates functional rolling doors and strong iron accents on a striking smoked grey finish for a dramatic presentation in personality.
Urban Loft
Simplicity in form and function. Urban Loft offers an upscale urban feel with value pricing. Built with Poplar solids and premium veneers with a rich Mocha finish.
Warner Park
Austin by Rachael Ray
Austin by Rachael Ray
Austin from Rachael Ray Home is a high styled collection with
a perfect blend of rustic and modern. Inspired by Rachael's
love of the popular city in Texas, Austin offers bedroom, dining,
occasional, entertainment & accents. Each piece effortlessly
combines form and function; while feeling comfortable at the
same time. Rachael's designs truly capture the vibe of Austin...
a relaxed sophistication.
Crafted with hardwoods and Rustic Acacia veneers in a
dark Barton finish with distressing. Vintage Dawson Brass
finished hardware and accents complete the look. Select items
are available in a beautiful, time-worn white Huntington finish
with Matte Black finished hardware and accents.
High Line by Rachael Ray
High Line by Rachael Ray
Rachael Ray Home. Casual contemporary design with Quartered Oak Veneers in a Greige finish. Soft Nickel hardware and accents.
Milano by Rachael Ray Home
Milano by Rachael Ray Home
Rachael's Milano collection is based on and a reflection of the city of Milan in Italy. High fashion, modern styling and rich textural finishes combine to create this total home collection. Crafted of Rubberwood Solids with Quartered White Oak Veneers, in a beautiful Sandstone finish, and accented with Modern Bronze finished custom hardware, Milano has a sophisticated and high-end appearance perfect for today's lifestyles. Bedroom, dining, occasional and accent items can be found in this group.
Refined Rustic by Rachael Ray
Refined Rustic by Rachael Ray
Inspired by Rachael's first home, a small two bedroom cabin in upstate NY, where she began her love of design by searching estate sales and auctions for items to dress up her rustic home. She was looking for items to dress up a
rustic space and found beautiful tapestries, and English Hunt pieces to fill the space. The home is still in use today and Rachael's mother is a frequent guest. A beautiful combination of rustic meets Old World design themes, Refined
Rustic by Rachael Ray Home captures Rachael's love of timeworn antiquities
with lots of character. This elegant rustic collection features Flat Cut White Oak veneers on solid hardwoods in a medium brown, Hunt Country finish with light
distressing. Design details such as planked tops, sculpted pilasters, scroll motifs and carved moldings add to the authentic feel. Old World Brass finished metal
hardware and accents complete the look of this group. The collection offers multiple options for bedroom, dining, accents and occasional.
The Aberdeen Collection, which draws its name from the ancient Scottish coastal city, is a very relaxed and casual grouping with a play on design features drawn from antique, coastal cottage furnishings and architectural elements. The scrubbed, weathered white finish on wire brushed ash veneers and hardwood solids is physically hand distressed for a timeless, age-worn appearance. The decorative hardware on drawers and doors is inspired from details found in antique jewelry, with a subtle rust finish that lends additional charm to the overall coastal cottage design theme.
Cascade offers a fresh look with detailed shapes and refined styling. Inspired by the trend of modern coastal interior design directions, the collection makes it easy to bring home the feeling of vacation with a light and breezy style. A minimalistic approach and modern sleekness convey the collection's relaxed attitude. Floating plinth bases give the group a light and airy feel while a stepped-down border on drawer faces provides a cascading effect and architectural detail. Clean, fresh color palette: a soothing tone of Dovetail create a modern, relaxed feel. Subtle wire brushing adds a textural element. Brushed nickel bar pulls add a touch of shimmer to its naturally soothing palette.
Corinne, inspired by tradition, but refreshed with an updated Sun-drenched Acacia finish is the ultimate of casual refinement. Elaborate turnings and pedestals feel relaxed and at home from the beach to the mountains and everywhere in between. Antique Bronze, cool gray fabric, and marble inset tops accent certain pieces for an eclectic mix of materials and styles.
Simplicity at it's finest, with selected mission style details and influence, Craftsman Home speaks to the purist at heart. The collection features slate tile borders, exposed tenons, arched base rails and tapered posts all in an Americana Oak finish. There are just enough of the classic Craftsman elements to feel comfortable in a home from that era, refreshed to work with todays current dcor, and yet timeless enough to not be outdated tomorrow.
Helmsley is beautifully crafted with just the right details. The top panels have hand chiseled v-grooves and the ends have a decorative faux metal motif. The Brushed Auburn finish is warm and inviting.
We know there's an art to dressing beautifully for every occasion and it's the small details that set Lilly apart from the crowd. Graceful, tapered legs with a brushed nickel bead inlay and softened corners feminize these sleek architectural forms with graduated drawers and the subtle bead motif is echoed on pilasters and perimeter tops throughout. An eye-catching marquise pattern on statement pieces allows you to express your individuality in high style while gracefully supporting the collection's overall impression of casual elegance.
Myra evokes the feeling of the sea: long walks on the sand, sounds of waves crashing into the shore and smells of crisp salty air. Whether you live on the coast or are just wanting to add a coastal cottage feel to your home, take a look at our Myra collection. Finishes of Paperwhite and Natural lend a casual elegance to Myra while select pieces are available in our Sable finish to add contrast.
Perspectives features a casual mission style that is updated with a contemporary yet casual flare. Available in 3 finishes: Brushed Acacia, Sundrenched Acacia and Ebonized Acacia.
The Rough-hewn Gray finish of the Rowan collection adds so much visual interest to this group. With a nod to an industrial feel, this group also has metal inserts with nailhead trim.
Sophie is an organic contemporary collection with a touch of glamour. Clean lines and soft rounded corners give this group a light and airy feel while the metallic accents add the perfect finishing touch. Constructed of wire-brushed Oak veneers in our Natural finish.
Hand-chiseled groove lines add just the right touch to the Sullivan collection. Simple cottage style in our Country White finish with distressed edges.
Smaller scaled pieces and the updated mid-century modern look of Vogue attracts both the young modern family and the social urbanite to this collection. The Gray Wash, Umber and Plymouth Brown Oak finishes along with contemporary lines and asymmetrical elements give a youthful sensibility.
The clean, classic lines of Windridge make it a welcome addition to your home. Select pieces also showcase X-motif accents.
Santa Fe


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Dear Alice,
I was just wondering....... You can't get pregnant from masturbation right? I did it once today, but I know you need a guy to get pregnant, but it is worrying me.
Dear Reader,
You're right — you need sperm to get pregnant. Unless your vagina comes into contact with semen during masturbation, you will not become pregnant by going solo. So the next time you masturbate, enjoy some self sexual satisfaction and abandon those worries with a healthy dose of sexual release, pleasure, and/or orgasm.
Whew — what a relief, huh?Alice!


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Project Plan/Project Definition
Businesses in today's economy have several factors to consider when deciding whether or not to venture into new IT projects. Business leaders need upfront information at their fingertips to support these critical decisions. Understanding the cost, time and quality of work related to a project is essential to accurately forecast and budget future needs of a company. By creating an association of IT professionals that is dedicated to establishing standards for common projects within a business, both areas can benefit.
"Nobody can be exactly like me. Even I have trouble doing it."
- Tallulah Bankhead


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Free Shipping on ALL ORDERS OVER $50
Notify me when this product is available:
This backpack features a sea otter that will hop on your back! Zippers open to store whatever you want.
Since 1972, our promise has been Quality, Value and Service!
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(323) 581-9988
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Vernon, CA 90058
Sign up to get the latest on sales, new releases and more…
© 2020 Fiesta Toy.
click here for masks!


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Our Amazing Team
Some of the nicest people you'll ever meet.
- Steve Davison Owner/ Corporate Manager
- Vaughn Cordell Production Manager
- Bob Clausen Graphic Designer
- Larry Copenhaver Print & Promotional Sales Representative
- Pat Zincke Customer Service Rep
Action Print 406-442-7595
Call us anytime. It's a local call.
Somebody nice will always answer.


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• Welcome to New FOC!
• (Bhm News) - Pilgrims flock to Shelby Co.
• (Bhm News) - Spreading news of Caritas
• (Shelby Co. Reporter) - Pilgrims gather for retreat
Enter your information above and click SUBSCRIBE below to sign up for the Friends of Caritas newsletter!
© 2011 All rights reserved. Images and some content courtesy and copyright of SJP Lic. Caritas of Birmingham.
P.S. By the way, we love Caritas!


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Polka Dots and Bouquet
Quinceanera Invitations
Polka Dots and Bouquet, Item# QI31137D
Note: Sparkles are simulated and will not light up.
Polka Dots and Bouquet, Item# QI31137D
Note: Sparkles are simulated and will not light up.
Polka Dots and Bouquet Reply Card Set
Polka Dots and Bouquet Thank You Card
Polka Dots and Bouquet Envelope Seals
Polka Dots and Bouquet Return Address Labels
Polka Dots and Bouquet Postage Stamps
Polka Dots and Bouquet Gift Tag Stickers
You will be able to select the typestyle and ink colors to use for your personalized text during the design process. Start by clicking on the green 'Personalize and Continue' button. We recommend using the default typestyle and ink colors.
|Estimated Postage Required:
|$0.55 stamp - if other items are not added into the Envelope. Click here for additional postage information.
|Item Type:
|Flat Card
|Card Dimensions:
|7.5" x 5.25" (W x H)
|Printing Process:
|Digital Press
|Paper Weight:
|Multiple Stock Options
|Typestyle Shown:
|ModernB and Montez
|Matching Ink Color:
|Light Pink and Black
|White Envelopes included. Printed return address and/or Calligraphy is available for an additional cost.
|Inner Lined Envelopes:
|Inner Lined Envelopes available for an Additional $.40 each. Choose from 20 different colors.


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Samsung Epic™ 4G Software Update - FC09
- Force close error when receiving a call
- Sprint Connections Optimizer
Important Notes
- Software version is: S:D700.0.5S.FC09
- Released in stages with 100% of devices having received the update within
approximately 6 weeks
- Refer to the Samsung Epic Software Update blog for install instructions
- Refer to the Sprint Connections Optimizer blog for more info on this feature
Message was edited by: mapesy who fixed the Sprint Connections Optimizer link
will this fix the issue where voicemails are only played back through the rear loud speaker?
Is there a PRL update at the end of the OS update? Asking because phone was lit up as if it did some kind of update, than went in to a PRL update. When it says "needs to reset radio", I got a force close. Powered down, pulled batterey. Took forever to come back "UP". Version still EL30 w/ another force close on PRL update. Also screen no longer times out. Soft buttons do, but not screen.
The update should he change the version to FC09 sound like the update may not have installed correctly or at all. You may want to got to a service and repair store to see if they can update over the wire.
- Q: How much device memory is used for Sprint Connections Optimizer?
A: Customer's accessible memory is not used. The Sprint Connections Optimizer feature is stored in the system partition.
From http://community.sprint.com/baw/community/buzzaboutwireless/services/blog/2012/03/26/sprint-connecti... FAQ
Why can't you give real answers? How much RAM will this use? its a vary simple question.
also will the Blotware be moved to the data patition so we can use & remove what we want/need on our own phones? amazonmp3, games, NASCAR the crapy NFL app, Sprint TV etc...? I think i speek for 1000's if not 10's of 1000's of people when i say we paid for the phone & want to use the finite amount of data storage as we see fit.
Paul_8700 wrote:
also will the Blotware be moved to the data patition so we can use & remove what we want/need on our own phones? amazonmp3, games, NASCAR the crapy NFL app, Sprint TV etc...? I think i speek for 1000's if not 10's of 1000's of people when i say we paid for the phone & want to use the finite amount of data storage as we see fit.
If all the "bloatware" as you call it was moved to the data partition it would actually leave those users that use those apps with less space...because now they are using space in the data partition instead of the system partition which the user wouldn't notice and isn't accessible to the user.
The only way to really free up that space by moving the pre-installed apps to the data partition would be to repartition the phone and make the system partition smaller while adding the space to the data partition. Not only would that completely wipe the phone, it would be just asking for loads of problems with bricked phones and most likely wouldn't be able to be done with an OTA update.
Short answer...no, that's not going to happen.
The connections optimizer app is about 450KB and uses about 3MB of RAM.
I know it wasn't listed specifically in the fix list, but does this update fix the phone so you can once again adjust the in-call volume without using a work-around?
I just confirmed with our device team that it does not address the in-call volume issue, if you are experiencing that though we are looking for additional information because we only received a small number of reports about it. If you would like I can create a ticket for you to take the phone into a corporate Sprint repair location so we can gather information and possibly collect it as a sample to send to our device team.
Click here to see the latest news on our Network Vision updates!
Is there any chance that this will change the incoming call screen. The incoming call screen before the EL30 release was much easier to use.
JasonF80 wrote:
Is there any chance that this will change the incoming call screen. The incoming call screen before the EL30 release was much easier to use.
No. I believe the change in that screen was due to the lawsuit from Apple...along with removing the colored squares from around the app icons.
Poor Apple..
Cant they find something else to do. Sorry, I find Apple merchandise to be over priced cheap merchandise.
I have also seen this bug with the in-call volume. Do the devs even own this phone? have they ever owned the phone they work on? have they ever uesd it outside of the lab they work in? I dont understand at this point in the phones life being on the market how any one that uses the phone & is working on fixing it could have not seen all the bugs still in it.
I do really like the new incoming call screen i always thought the old one looked dumb. Maybe not how it worked or where the button where but the colors where
Do you have a link to the sprint policy that makes camera phones make the shutter sound? If this is really true & sprint has this policy its like Ford installing breath alcohol ignition interlock devices on all F-150's in a recall that you have NO choice in as the paying customer. Even though most owners never drive drunk. There is no logic in this so called policy cameras do NOT make dumb sounds why should a phone make a dumb sound. It makes the camera useless for taking pics of wildlife, pets or a cute sleeping baby.
Our Community is BACK!!
Hours of Operations are 7AM - 8PM CST. Please try Searching the Community, we have many questions already answered, you can also check out the Knowledge base
If you need immediate assistance after hours please visit Sprint Chat


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Captain Andy's Beach Bar & Grill
Captain Andy's Beach Bar & Grill offers a casual dining experience with a varied menu. It is named after a famous trading schooner skipper, Captain Andy Thomson. Captain Andy's historic limestone and coral house still stands across from The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa and has now been transformed into SpaPolynesia LUXE @ Lime Blossom Villa. Renowned as one of the most colourful seafarers in the South Pacific, Captain Andy's has taken on the personality of its namesake: relaxed, fun and appreciative of the simple island lifestyle. Enjoy a selection of steaks, fish & chips, burgers, pizzas, pasta, omelettes, salads and seafood dishes. The All-Day Menu is available daily from 11am to 9pm - ideal for a casual poolside dining experience. There's also a fun Kids 'Gone Troppo' Menu for children to age 11, and of course, high-chairs are complimentary.
We are happy to cater anytime to guests with special dietary requirements and our menus indicate gluten free, dairy free, nut free, paleo, vegetarian, vegan, raw vegan. Please feel free to talk with our Chef who will also be delighted to assist you.


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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- Backed by a near triple-double from Schuyler Moore, the Covenant volleyball team opened its season with a 3-0 (25-22, 25-9, 26-24) victory over Sewanee in the McAttack Bash, hosted by Birmingham Southern at Bill Battle Coliseum on Friday night.
Covenant (1-0) has won five consecutive season openers. Sewanee drops to 0-1 on the year.
Moore was all over the floor on the night as she collected 20 assists, 18 digs and seven kills to go along with six service aces. The senior is now just three assists shy of breaking the program's career assist record during the rally scoring era (since 2001).
Ginny Moore and Hannah Harris had six kills apiece, while Moore also tallied 15 digs. Chloe Storm had four kills and Hannah Stewart added 16 digs and seven assists. Covenant hit just .066 as a team, but had a 68-55 edge in total digs.
Both teams struggled with their attacks in the opening set, but Covenant was able to pull through for a 25-22 win. The Lady Scots scored the final three points of the set, aided by two Sewanee errors and a Jessica Seehorn kill, to win the frame. In the second, Covenant dominated as the Lady Scots scored the first 11 points, including four aces from Schuyler Moore, and would cruise to the set win and a 2-0 match lead.
In the third set Covenant looked poised to run away for the sweep as the Lady Scots took a 14-9 lead after a Harris kill and then 21-14 on a Storm ace. But Sewanee answered and would tie the score at 24. The Lady Scots earned the final two points for the win as Sewanee made another attack error, its 25th of the night, before Seehorn ended the match with an ace.
Destiny Stewart had eight kills and 11 digs for Sewanee. Peyton Parent led the way defensively with 21 digs.
Covenant will finish up the McAttack Bash on Saturday by facing Washington & Lee at 2 p.m., before playing host Birmingham Southern at 7 p.m.
Be sure to follow the Scots all season long on athletics.covenant.edu and on social media at Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for up-to-date scores, news and other information. To receive text alerts with score updates or e-newsletters, click here


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I had a thought concerning religion and the difficulty some have in distinguishing the difference between it and spirituality.
So here's the thought: Maybe religion can be defined as a type of spirituality in which the faithful feel a need for others besides themselves to have likewise beliefs/faith.
What'ch'all think?


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Ayn Rand's views were seen as preposterous when she wrote them, yet time has proven her vision to be spot on. Check out this interview with Google executive Eric Schmidt:
"So we get hauled in front of the Congress for developing a product that's free, that serves a billion people. OK? I mean, I don't know how to say it any clearer," Mr. Schmidt told the Post. "It's not like we raised prices. We could lower prices from free to . . . lower than free? You see what I'm saying?"
An absence of consumer harm didn't stop senators from offering some improbable recommendations. Among them: that Google replace its algorithm with a panel of experts to ensure "fair" search results. As Google tries to improve the relevancy of its search results for consumers, some sites inevitably come up higher and some lower in the results. The losers now lobby Washington.


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Take the new film book Scorsese by Ebert at face value, and it's our greatest film critic interviewing our greatest living director. That's the problem. Roger Ebert hangs the laurels on Martin Scorsese in a 1998 essay reprinted in the volume: "There is no greater American director right now than Martin Scorsese." The idea of a "greatest living director" is a terrible approach for the evaluation of a talent. It entails too much build-up, as well as too much nostalgia for past work.
This short book combines reprinted reviews and interviews along with reconsiderations by Ebert of some of Scorsese's films. It also includes a transcript of an onstage interview Scorsese gave at Ohio State University, the book's most valuable section.
Scorsese by Ebert (University of Chicago Press; $25) is the work of a fan interviewing a fan. Ebert has a subject who tends to open himself up like a can of beans, anyway. The director's effusiveness and enthusiasm are part of his reputation. Probably no other American filmmaker worked so closely with former film critics as screenwriters: Paul Schrader, Jay Cocks, Paul Zimmerman. And certainly no other American filmmaker is as dedicated to the elements of studio-era craftsmanship. Who else has talked so convincingly about the terrible deterioration in film stock, the death of Technicolor, the neglect of Michael Powell?
Ebert was in on the beginning of Scorsese's rise to critical esteem. He was perceptive enough to realize that Scorsese's I Call First (later known as Who's That Knocking at My Door) was the work of a director going places. And Scorsese claims that he kept Ebert's review of his first film in his wallet for years. Both were ardent Baltimore Catechism&–era Catholics; the critic from southern Illinois, the director from Little Italy. Both wanted to enter the priesthood.
In essay after essay, Ebert identifies the mother/whore dichotomy that Scorsese has worked like almost no other American director. The motif appears strongest in Who's That Knocking at My Door, where Harvey Keitel rejects a woman who has been raped on the grounds that she is impure. How much is this kind of dichotomy Italian Catholicism, and how much is it the private obsession of Scorsese? According to Scorsese by Ebert, Ebert once met the director at a low point. Scorsese was brooding over one of his divorces and claiming that he'd go to hell for leaving his wife. Ebert thought Scorsese was joking. Nope.
"When people sincerely believed in hell, they were not so fond of striking graceful attitudes on its brink," George Orwell wrote. Look at Scorsese's very practical mother, playing a nana fixing a snack for the Mafia gravediggers in GoodFellas. He couldn't have gotten the fear of hellfire from that practical woman, could he? And then you read this Scorsese quote: "Italians are pagans. I took up Catholicism on my own."
Worked up by the theatrical side of Catholicism—the ceremony of high mass, the candles, the music—Scorsese had similar autointoxication with the movies. And intoxication is the problem. Though he brought grindhouse levels of violence to the respectable film, Scorsese is peaceable in real life: a suffering asthmatic, a keeper of poodles, a man who never saw a boxing match until he made Raging Bull. (Serious fight fans would have to say, "That explains a lot.")
The problem of seeing the violent life from a remote view appears all over Scorsese's movies. Moreover, Scorsese is a veteran of the drug era, which made criminals out of so many basically peaceable people. That Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta and the horror clown Joe Pesci became so fetishized is all part of Scorsese's skill. It's also the result of his myopia.
Sometimes, this admiration for the mafia type borders on a fan's shallowness. Scorsese comments here, with no protest by Ebert, "If you had personal dealing with Luciano, he was great." As a first-rate film scholar, Scorsese ought to know that the 1937 gangster film Marked Woman was based on Luciano's less charming side.
At worst, Ebert tries to lay down the liturgical law against censors of The Last Temptation of Christ, accusing them of "the sin of pride." At best, he revives some unpopular films, sometimes with a fan's confusion and helplessness: "I guess we go to New York, New York to enjoy the good parts." Ebert writes about the unlovable but tough King of Comedy: "If it has greatness, perhaps it is in its mystery." So many times in Ebert's reviews of Scorsese's work, there's a sense of the battle for a film being lost; he knows he's dealing with movies that are too difficult, too painful to be popular.
It's easier to remember the bravura scenes: the ceiling camera in Taxi Driver; the fights in Raging Bull (a masterpiece of style, not content, that fight); the close-up on Paul Newman's face as he's fitted for glasses in The Color of Money; Nick Nolte slugging cognac from a paint-smeared snifter in New York Stories; Joni Mitchell's moon-burst of female energy among the bearlike musicians in The Last Waltz.
Too bad Ebert writes that he has "no clue" what Mitchell's song "Coyote" was about. I think it's directly about Neil Young, but I know it's about a woman musician picking up male prerogatives. That Ebert can't celebrate that moment—well, that's Ebert echoing the old Madonna/whore dichotomy at work, the career-long void in the heart of Scorsese's work. Analyzing it will never free some people from it.
New and upcoming film releases.
Browse all movie reviews.


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Power Purchase Agreement / Host a Solar System
A solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) enables a business to purchase lower-priced electricity produced by a solar electric system without having to purchase the system outright.
Here's how a PPA works: an investor (or investor group) owns the solar system, but the business owner hosts the system on its property. The host agrees to purchase the electricity produced by the system at a predictable rate (which will be lower and less inflationary than utility rates).
Benefits to Investor:
- Monthly electricity payment from the host
- Investment Tax Credits
- Depreciation tax benefits
- Revenue from SREC incentives offered by the federal and state governments
Benefits to Host:
- No Capital Investment - The investor provides the capital to purchase the solar system.
- Hedge Against Price Inflation - Obtain a long term contract for electricity at a predictable price.
- Avoid System Responsibility - The investor is responsible for the design, construction, maintenance, repairs, and operation of the solar system.
- Corporate Acceptance - A long term power purchase agreement may be more acceptable to a company's management, directors, and stockholders.
- Public Relations Benefits - Hosting a solar system demonstrates sensitivity to the environment and to the health and welfare of employees and community.
- Decrease the Business's Carbon Footprint - Utilizing solar power will immediately reduce your emissions of CO2 caused by the burning of fossil fuels


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I set out to discover the best workout classes in Los Angeles loved by celebs, influencers, and personal trainers. These workouts found only in LA will rev up your exercise routine. The best workout classes in Los Angeles will make you sweat from a trampoline cardio class to boxing.
Also, check out the best fitness studios in LA filled with unique workouts (updated as of 01/2020) and the top 5 best workout apps to try at home.
Best Workout Classes in Los Angeles
Bünda, The Full Body of The Best Workout Classes in Los Angeles
Yep, Bünda. It's one of the best workout classes in Los Angeles. Bünda is a boutique fitness studio in West Hollywood founded by two personal trainers. They designed a full-body workout class, but there's a lot of emphasis on glutes exercises since Bünda means butt in Brazilian Portuguese.
I went on a Sunday to the Total Body Workout class, instructed by Kevin. The workout is divided into two sections: 1/2 Stairmaster + 1/2 resistance training. This class is an intense workout. You'll sweat and be sore afterward but will feel so good. The studio is very new and Insta-worthy. Free parking is available (which is amazing considering they're located in West Hollywood). They provide you with a face towel as well as a towel to wipe the equipment. I attended this intense class via ClassPass. Each class is $30 (specials going on during January with $15/class). Skip this class if you have knee issues (due to the Stairmaster).
SWEATHEORY, The Restorative of the Best Workout Classes in Los Angeles
This studio loves to make people sweat w
The Crystal, Reiki, Sound Healing class with Katie on Saturday at 6:30 pm is the most relaxing yoga session ever. I had gone to a Kundalini yoga class with a sound bath (read more here) but not a healing class. This class is a mix of guided meditation and Reiki healing. Katie places crystals on you while a sound bath is playing. The yoga studio has infrared lights and a Hamalyian salt wall that helps with breathing.
But wait! Why is this one of the best workouts in Los Angeles? Since meditation has a huge impact on your overall health. I slept so well the night I took this class. It is an amazing class that I highly suggest for anyone who has sleeping issues. Next time I go to this studio, I want to try an infrared sauna session. I attended this relaxing class via ClassPass. Each class is $25. Parking is not the best in this area.
BODY BY SIMONE, The Most Fun of The Best Workout Classes in Los Angeles
How about trampoline cardio? Body by Simone (BBS) is a boutique fitness and personal training studio located in New York, London, and Los Angeles. Simone De La Rue founded BBS, which is loved by many celebs. BBS offers four signature classes: 1. Trampoline Cardio; 2. Hips, Thighs, Buns; 3. Full Body; and 4. Dance Cardio. The classes are dance-inspired but it is for all levels. This is the most fun of the workout classes in Los Angeles.
I attended the Trampoline Cardio class at the Brentwood location. It is a low impact cardio workout (good for knees and joints) that increases lymphatic flow. Trampoline Cardio is a "high energy workout in interval choreographed bouncing, on a spring free rebounder, with intermittent full-body strengthening." This is a great class for anyone who loves feeling like a kid again and those who dislike or can't run. According to the American Council on Exercise, the trampoline workout has the same benefits as running and improves balance. But wait? What if you fall? But that's the fun part of it. The Brentwood location is located in the trendy Brentwood Village with tons of eateries nearby. I attended this high energy class via ClassPass. Each class is $28 at the Brentwood location.
LOVE FOR PILATES, The Low Impact of The Best Workout Classes in Los Angeles
This is the pilates class of the best workout classes in Los Angeles. Rated the best pilates in Los Angeles, Love for Pilates is a pilates studio with 3 locations: Hollywood, West Hollywood, and Santa Monica. All of the classes are conducted on a reformer machine. I went to Reformer Level 1 class at the West Hollywood location, but it was anything but basic. You would think the level 1 class would be easy! However, there are no easy workouts at Love for Pilates. It was super intense (for pilates anyway). But I suggest arriving early if you're new to reformer pilates to go over how the machine works.
Don't forget your grip socks since you can't workout without them. If you do forget, don't worry. They sell cute ones at the front desk for $10. Each Class is $10-$12 for new clients depending on which location with a current promotion of $5/class for the Hollywood location. Street parking only.
RUMBLE BOXING, The Trendiest of The Best Workout Classes in Los Angeles
This boxing class is one of the best workout classes in Los Angeles because currently the trendiest workout class in Los Angeles. Rumble is a boxing-inspired group class. The popularity of this studio is due to celeb endorsements and social media ads featuring Insta-models but the studio does live up to the hype.
There are two segments with 10 rounds: 1. boxing bags and 2. the floor (resistance training). The resistance training segment is a combo of HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), and METCON (metabolic conditioning). If you're new to boxing or need a refresher, there's a mini-training of the six basic boxing punches at the beginning of the classes. I love how each of the punching sequences is projected on the board since you can't get lost in which punch comes next. The studio is dark and the music is loud. While you're waiting for the class to start, it does seem like everyone is waiting for a modeling audition. But the class is not intimidating. Everyone is there to work out a sweat. I almost forgot to mention, this studio was created with Instagram in mind so be ready to pose.
You will need boxing gloves and wraps. They do sell them at the front desk. The wraps are for $8 but they are so worth it since they are much easier to wrap than traditional boxing wraps. Parking is available in the building structure for $2. Each class is $32 (but for new clients, it's 2 classes for $32).
A reminder …
When it comes to workout classes in Los Angeles, always remember not to compare yourself with anyone else in the class. You should always go at your own pace. Most likely the ones who are outpacing everyone else in the class are personal trainers or fitness models since it is Los Angeles after all. You know they have to work out too (lol).
If you don't live in LA, check out the LES MILLS On Demand fitness app with the best online fitness classes. It's the next best thing to the best workout classes in Los Angeles.
Check out this blog post for workout wear inspirations, post-workout snacks, post-workout recovery, and discount codes.
Which workout classes in Los Angeles would you try? Let me know in a comment below!
Pin The Best Workout Classes in Los Angeles
Happy workouts!
With gratitude,
This post may contain affiliate links. Click here for the full disclosure statement.


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Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Arming Maine Forest Rangers
LD 297 to authorize the funding for the arming of the forest rangers. The Portland Press Herald recently published an editorial endorsing the task force recommendations. See "Our View: Maine forest rangers shouldn't face hazards unarmed" dated January 15, 2014.
Posted by Staff, MSSR Blog
Labels: forest-rangers, guns
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The new product development process : small firm success by studying larger firms
Thesis (MScEng (Industrial Engineering))--University of Stellenbosch, 2008.
The aim of this research was to investigate new product development practices for application to small businesses. Although larger companies, in general, have well-established practices from which smaller companies can benefit, product development in smaller businesses tends to be less formalised and less well described. Hence, this research is aimed at breaching this gap and addressing the need of the small business environment. The first few chapters of the study describe the investigation of product development in its general form. This provides an overview of what product development and the execution of the process in particular entails. Control mechanisms that are used to counter and manage unwanted behaviours that may occur during the process are also discussed. A generic product development process is then discussed in detail, based on research carried out on small- and medium-sized enterprises. The initial literature discussion in the first few chapters thus highlights the need to control and manage product development, and shows where pitfalls occur that could be detrimental to product success. This is followed by an investigation to establish the extent to which companies realise the impact the development process could have on product success. As the focus of this study revolves around small businesses that are growing, the use of phase review criteria as it pertains to companies with well-established product development practices was investigated, together with the role of product development in other business activities. The most important aim of this study was to develop a new product development framework that could be used in the small business environment. Seven key best practices were eventually identified, which are discussed in turn, together with their key underlying and component principles. The results are summarised and used to draw up the framework. The framework is summarised in a way that provides concise detail, which makes it useful even without any accompanying information. The last part of the study was aimed at validating the results of the framework. This was done by means of a survey and one-on-one interviews with a group of carefully selected participants who were involved in small businesses developments. The participants completed a questionnaire indicating the relevance of the framework for their enterprises. Useful information was obtained through this feedback and this yielded positive results. Having validated the framework for application in the small business environment, the thesis ends with the proposals for improving the framework.


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Want to add a little fun to your smartphone or tablet PC? If you have a mobile device that uses the Android operating system, you've got plenty of options to keep you entertained and challenged for hours. Here's a look at the Top 5 free gaming apps that are available for download in the Android Market.
- Angry Birds Greedy pigs stole the Angry Birds eggs. Now is the time for revenge! Use logic, skill and unique Angry Bird powers to destroy the fortresses of those thieving pigs in this addictive game that boasts 285 levels. Each level requires you to aim the angry birds with the right amount of force and right degree of altitude, while propelling them by a giant slingshot. For those that have already mastered the original Angry Birds, Angry Birds Rio and Angry Birds Seasons are also available for free download.
- Words With Friends For those that love classic Scrabble and other word games, Words With Friends is the best free word game app available. Dazzle your friends with your ability to find the highest scoring combos amidst double and triple letter or word scores. Several play options are available including connecting with Facebook friends or playing against random opponents. Total mobile addiction for word lovers!
- Guns'n'Glory WW2 This defense-action strategy game is the successor to the original Guns'n'Glory game that was centered in the "Wild West." In the World War II version, battles are played between the Axis and Allies. Get ready to march your troops and tanks to the frontlines!
- Drag Racing Have a need for speed? In this addictive car racing game, you can select to challenge other racers online in 1-on-1 races or in multi-player races. Choose from 50+ cars to race, upgrade, paint or sell as you work your way through the various levels.
- Fruit Ninja This action game has gained worldwide popularity for its' fast and fun play. Increase your score on the leaderboard by slashing your way through a variety of fruits. Each level is as addicting as the last. Brought to you by the game developers at Halbrick Studios, Fruit Ninja brings "sweet, tasty destruction with every slash!"


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Vision Statement
Where do we want to be in the future?
Be the preferred service provider for Standardization and Conformity Assessment for Egypt, Middle East and Africa
How will we achieve this?
1.Provide value added services to all our stakeholders (including staff, industry )
2.Promoting the use of standards in line with International best practice (WTO TBT, ISO)
3.Developing ourselves as Centre(s) of Excellence in Supporting national projects and international interests
4. Promoting awareness and wider access to our services internally and externally
5.Working to realize our dream of being self-financing
When will we achieve this?
- 2021 (5yrs)
- 2021
- 2018
- 2018
- 2017/2018
- 2017 - 2021
*Preferred means we will be high quality service and accredited*
Standards Strategy for Egyptian Organization for Standardization &Quality


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EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the seventh installment in our series of common mistakes often made by Texas hold'em players.
As you develop your poker expertise, it is important to come up with deceptive skills to have in your repertoire and call on when appropriate. Those who do not do so are making a big mistake.
A player who never bluffs or is not otherwise deceptive, is not likely to be a winner. Playing only ABC poker won't "cut the mustard."
Once your opponents know you never play deceptively, they will label you a tight player – one who only plays and bets with strong hands. Then they can promptly get out of your way when you would rather have them help you build a big pot you are favored to win. Winning only small pots is not likely to be enough to overcome the cost to play – the House's rake, the Bad-Beat Jackpot drop, and the tip you give the dealer when you win a pot.
Deception at the poker table is quite proper. Do not consider it immoral. Being "tricky" can be an important part of your game and really help you in your goal to go home a winner. For one thing, deception will make it tougher for your opponents to read your hands; and all the more difficult for them to make decisions contrary to your best interests. Equally important, being deceptive can substantially enhance the size of the pots you win. That is all to your advantage.
There are various forms of deception in which you should seek to become expert. The most common, of course, is bluffing – betting or raising with a weak hand to force out opponents who likely have better hands. You were drawing to a big flush or an open-ended straight, but failed to connect.
In that case, bluffing may well be the only way you can possibly win that pot. But don't try it against a Calling-Station. The fewer the number of opponents in the hand, the more likely your bluff will succeed. Using the Esther Bluff tactic, semi-bluffing on the turn is when you bluff bet while holding lots of good outs.
In that case, if all your remaining opponents muck their cards, your bluff has won the pot for you. If an opponent calls, you can still connect on the river – or make a continuation bluff.
Other forms of deception:
Trapping – playing your hand so as to conceal its strength, so opponents are more likely to bet a hand that is second-best to yours; they may even try to bluff you out.
Slow-playing – not raising with a powerful hand, especially if it's the near- nuts, thereby, encouraging your opponents to stay in the pot and perhaps even doing the betting for you – until you raise on the river. Now, that is how to build big pots!
Sandbagging – avoid betting out with a powerful hand, with the intention of raising if an opponent makes a bet.
Check-raising – like sandbagging, it's checking with a powerful hand, and then raising after there's a bet and (hopefully) a few calls, thereby building the size of the pot you expect to win.
Reverse tells – giving a tell on purpose so as to encourage an opponent to act against his best interests, to your benefit.
Each is appropriate in certain situations. There's a lot to learn, but the player who fails to do so is making a big mistake; it will be very costly.


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Contrabass Flute
The Contrabass Flute, a full two octaves lower than the C-flute, is the 'Gentle Giant' of the flute family. It's warm tone may seem not loud at first hearing, but carries in an impressive way. And it is with much pleasure that we introduce this wonderful instrument to you.


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Smashburger: Coppell's newest and best burger joint
April 11, 2013
By Thomas Hair
Opinions Editor
There was a time, not long ago, when the golden arches of McDonald's defined the American burger industry. Fast, cheap and greasy – that was the only option. Within the last few years, however, we have witnessed the rapid boom of trendy "better burger" establishments providing a higher quality, albeit more expensive, hamburger alternative.
Coppell is a testament to this phenomenon – with In-N-Out, MOOYAH and Five Guys Burgers and Fries all opening stores nearby within the span of a couple years. Smashburger, which opened on Denton Tap in late March, is the latest "better burger" franchise to expand into Coppell territory.
I've eaten at plenty of "gourmet burger" restaurants like Smashburger. I knew I was going to get a good hamburger. I was looking for things that make Smashburger stand out from the growing crowd of competition. My high expectations were met. I hereby declare, burger buffs and food aficionados, that Smashburger is the best burger joint in Coppell. Here's why.
Location. Smashburger occupies a prime lot on Denton Tap Road in the heart of Coppell, unlike Five Guys in Lewisville and In-N-Out in the outskirts of Coppell. It is very easy to find and doesn't occupy the back of another restaurant's building (MOOYAH). Smashburger is also 100 percent wheelchair and handicap accessible.
Design and ambiance. The first thing I noticed when I opened the door was the impressive sleek and smooth interior design. There are plenty of seating options, with stools, tables, booths and outdoor tables available. All of the decor is very smooth and clean – to the eyes and to the touch. Whereas Five Guys has a rustic aesthetic, with wooden menu boards and sacks of peanuts lying around, Smashburger embraces the 21st century, utilizing massive video screens. One video screen rotates through mouth-watering photos of various menu items and special offers, while the two others display the extensive menu, which brings me to my next point.
Menu. In terms of the variety and mass appeal of their menu, Smashburger is way ahead of their "better burger" competitors. You can order one of their specialty burgers – like the Classic Smash or Jalapeno BBQ – or pick and choose your own infinite combinations of toppings. There are also four styles of buns and eleven side options, including Smashfries, fried pickles, chili and veggie fries. If you don't even like burgers or French fries, there is still something for you at Smashburger. They offer multiple chicken items, such as the Spicy Baja Chicken Sandwich, salads, hot dogs and veggie burgers. This extremely diverse and localized menu is miles ahead of competitors like Five Guys who only offer burgers and fries and nothing else.
Portions. Yes, a night with the family at Smashburger might be a bit pricier than bringing home Burger King, but you get much more for your dollar. The burgers are thick and hearty, and the pile of French fries on the side of the tray is deep enough to hide golf balls in. I ordered a $4 specialty Haagen Dazs Oreo Shake and was pleasantly surprised when the waitress brought out a one-foot-tall glass filled to the brim – in addition to a chrome pitcher with even more milkshake because they made more than they could fit into my glass. Talk about awesome portion sizes!
Flavor. Smashburger restaurants use a unique "smashing" method to cook their patties and Smashfries. I'm still not completely sure how smashing a patty makes it taste better, but it definitely seems to work! I could literally taste the delicate blend of spices and juicy flavors in the meat. The brown artisan buns are delightful as well, cut in a unique and memorable shape. The Smashfries are thin, crispy and lightly salted – irresistible to munch on by the handful!
I was very pleased with my experience at Coppell's new Smashburger. Everything was clean, the service was impeccable and the food was even better.
Smashburger has stated that its goal is to be "every city's favorite place for burgers". With its prime location in the heart of Coppell on Denton Tap, flavorful food and large portions, Smashburger is poised to become Coppell's go-to burger joint.


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Showing Collections: 1 - 4 of 4
Beverly Everett papers
Identifier: IWA0148
Abstract Family farmer, volunteer, and community activist who served on U.S. National Commission for UNESCO and the International Women's Year Commission.
Dates: 1856-2001
Kathryn W. Hansen
Identifier: IWA0859
Abstract Photographer, Peace Corps volunteer, and United Nations Association leader and member.
Dates: 1959-2012; Other: Date acquired: 20100000
Mary McDermott Shideler papers
Identifier: IWA0404
Abstract Theologian, writer and lecturer whose work encompassed religious theology, philosophy and psychology.
Dates: 1900-2000
Midwest Women's Studies Association records
Identifier: IWA0649
Abstract Regional branch of the National Women's Studies Association.
Dates: 1979-1992


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Photo: Oxmoor House
Prepare this white chicken stew up to 2 days in advance, and refrigerate. Reheat over low heat, stirring frequently. If it's too thick, stir in a little water.
How to Make It
Step 1
Melt butter in a Dutch oven over low heat; add carrot, onion, and garlic. Sauté until tender. Stir in chicken, chicken broth, green chiles, cumin, and red pepper; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20 minutes.
Step 2
Place beans in a medium bowl, and mash using a potato masher until about half the beans are still whole. Add beans and whipping cream to chicken mixture. Cook 10 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently, until thickened and hot. Stir in cilantro, if you'd like.
Southern Living Kids Cookbook


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Why use Watchful? Supercharge your Web Agency.
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Watchful helps you monitor industry-accepted best-practices and potential security issues. And if a problem arises, Watchful's customer support is there to help you understand the problem and advise you on possible solutions.


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Ruby's Cafe is more than a restaurant. The Mulberry Street hangout is the original hub of so called 'Little Australia,' and at any hour of the day, expats, yanks and tourists can be found smashing flat whites, signature Aussie brekkie and burgers, but most importantly, sharing good vibes.
We caught up with Nick Mathers and Lincoln Pilcher, the duo that founded Ruby's to talk about the good old times in Nolita and the origins of their restaurant. Disclaimer: the two go back far enough that they can actually complete one another's sentences.
Hey Nick, hey Lincoln. So tell us about the space that Ruby's is in. It's not too big…
This was John Gotti's little beatdown room.
Downstairs, that's where the blood was.
What about the concept for the restaurant, where did that originate?
When we got here had was no real intention to do a cafe. We were just like "We need good coffee they don't have good coffee in New York." So we decided to just do a coffee shop.
Way to wing it. Why did you boys settle on Nolita?
It felt like the closest thing to home. Back in the day, it was different, it really was like a little Paddington with cute little houses. It was much more neighborhoody and quiet. That was something that we were attracted to.
It had smaller kind of stores and smaller streets and was less commercial than SoHo. It's definitely changed a lot over the years.
Has the change been positive? Tell us about that?
When you came here twelve years ago you did not see one Australian. We were such a novelty it was kind of crazy. Then you'd go to Eight Mile Creek and there were four Australians there and it felt like home, because you miss that when you're in the big city and pretty far away from your family and friends.
Have you seen things change in the city beyond the scope of Nolita? Would Ruby's be a different restaurant if it opened in 2015?
Everything is so curated now. Back when we started, everything wasn't so contrived, we weren't trying to do something, we were just doing what we did and it worked. It evolved and here we are. We didn't have instagram we weren't all like "Did you take the picture of the coffee with the fork in it that's going to go on our feed!"
Love to hear that. Can you tell us about the early days of Ruby's?
You could only fit like ten people in the room. We had hair down to here, blonde hair like surfer dudes and it was very unusual to see.
It wasn't as trendy back then.
People would walk past like 'What on earth is this place?" So people would just come in to see what it was and half of them would just want to come and hang out with us and they'd literally sit for hours and we'd serve them a coffee and they'd leave us twenty bucks.
They fell sorry for us and left money. I don't know how we pulled off what we did, really. There was days when there was forty people in there, and we could only seat twenty. Every single person would be disgruntled.
Rough. Any funny stories from those early days?
I'll never forget the day that Lincoln and I – we were young, so we had a very large night out (you can edit that out) and we had to open the restaurant. Lincoln and I came up and opened it it was packed and this was on no sleep. I'm like "Oh my god i'm making coffees and we don't have milk. Linc – you gotta go grab some milk i'll make the coffees," and he's like "Yeah I got this." He ran out to get the milk, never came back, left me in a packed restaurant for one of the busiest days I've ever had. I was livid.
I never said I was sorry for that.
That's good stuff. What about the hard times? Starting a business in New York is no short order.
There were some really long January and February nights sitting against the wall of the restaurant. I remember just staring at what used to be a car park and it used to flash this red park sign, and i was thinking please someone walk in, watching the sign just going 'park park park.'
Are there any particularly legendary dishes from Ruby's?
The creamy chicken pasta. We used to call that the 'ultimate hangover cure.' People would walk in at ten, eleven A.M and get creamy chicken pasta.
How would you describe the menu at Ruby's?
What mama cooks. Some of our recipes are from our mums or our grandmas or our friends. It's kind of eclectic and it's been refined a lot, but i think it's all about the people. We rely on personality and we are evolving which is good, but personalities are what made this place.
Good people are the best advertising, too. Word of mouth.
Little Australia has such a communal vibe, and you guys were so instrumental in beginning the scene…
Not that we thought about it, this community evolved organically.
You kept some struggling Aussie models and travelers alive too…
The staff was big, my sister was here your sister was here, lot of family.
Miranda Kerr served here Jess Hart, we had the Tozzi girls, and along came Jamo who brought some color. If we fast forward a little bit there's Ben Doss, who did an amazing job. In the beginning it was Tom and Morgan, Morgan was working as a model booker at One Model Management, so we loved him. I think that was one of the reasons we stayed.
What does New York mean to you guys?
There is a lot of inspiration. In a way, everyone has this equal playing field on the streets of New York.
I moved here when I was 19. It's an intense place to grow up. You have to grow up fast. You have to grow thick skin. It's concrete so when you fall you always graze yourself.
But you also don't grow up…
Haha, I can attest to that.
Everyone thinks they are Peter Pan.
New York doesn't put you in a box and that's what I love about it.
Who is Ruby?
You'll never know. I can tell you one thing that it's not named after a girl…


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The Organic Centre
The Organic Centre can advise and assist horticultural producers in converting to organic methods either directly (one to one session), by telephone or by e-mail. General advice can also be given on livestock production.
For further information please contact:
The Organic Centre
Co Leitrim
Tel: (071) 9854338
Fax: (071) 9854343
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Website: www.theorganiccentre.ie


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Posted on April 30, 2013 by Samantha Cristoforetti
Star City Impressions
This is my attempt at giving you a glimpse into the peculiar life in Star City. The idea has come from a request of the friends at the Karemaski Multi Art Lab in Arezzo, Italy. They have sponsored a science fiction writing contest to honor Valentina Tereshkova's spaceflight 50 years ago. The best short stories will be published in a collection that will also include an Italian translation of this text. This is the first of three parts.
There's something magical about Star City. I remember crisply when I drove past the entrance gate for the first time. I had been an astronaut with the European Space Agency (ESA) for a year by then and together with my five colleagues of the 2009 "Shenanigans" class I had been through an intense 12-month program of basic training. In truth, it was those final two months of training in Star City that I had been awaiting with the most anticipation. Star City – звездный городок. A legendary place where the history of Russian cosmonautics has unfolded since the days of the very early pioneers of human spaceflight.
Lazily tucked away in the birch tree woods about 25 km North of Moscow, Star City is not an elusive military citadel hidden in an undisclosed location any more, but rather one of the main nodes in a global network of international collaboration in space. Still, if you were to take one of Moscow's efficient electric trains (электрички) to the Ziolkovskaya stop and walk the short distance to the citadel's entry, you would be met by guards requesting to see your entry badge. Even after the recent transition to civilian status, access to Star City remains restricted.
While not all of the few thousands residents work in the space business today, Star City's pulsing heart remains the Cosmonaut Training Center (Центр Подготовки Космонавтов). Established in 1960 with the goal of preparing a selected group of young military pilots for the Vostok program, the center was dedicated in 1968 to the memory of Yuri Gagarin, who completed history's first manned spaceflight on April 12th, 1961.
Yuri's presence permeates Star City up to this day. Whether it's a statue stiffly waving at you in a rigid Soviet-era incarnation or a picture giving you one of those world-famous charming smiles from a wall, he's always there to remind you that you stand on the shoulders of giants. In spite of his tragic death in 1968, Yuri has never left.
Valentina Tereshkova has never left either, literally. History's first female space flyer still has her home here. Chaika – her call sign on Vostok 6 – is to this date a prominent public figure, today a member of Russia's State Duma. She is known to attend occasionally the rather frequent cosmonauts' ceremonies and celebrations. Who knows, maybe I'll have a chance to say hello one of these days.
Casual encounters with people I've read about in history books are not infrequent in Star City. Make a stop at the banya of the cosmonaut gym after working out and you'll likely meet an old man or two who flew to the early Salyut space stations. Many older cosmonauts, especially the military ones, still live in their Star City apartments. Just a couple of weeks ago I bumped into Vladimir Titov, among many other things a veteran of the only pad abort to date: back in 1983 a rough, 15- G escape from a launch pad fire saved his life, courtesy of the flawless work of the rescue tower and of the prompt reaction of flight controllers.
A few days after this fortunate encounter Yuri Petrovich, who runs the ESA's Star City office and is the closest thing I'll ever have to a guardian angel, was giving me a ride to the training facilities. On the way he stopped the car briefly to say hello to an old friend on his morning walk, who turned out to be a former head of the training division, at some point in charge of preparing the very first cosmonaut group. After exchanging a few words, we kept driving and we passed an older lady on her way to work. "One of Tereshkova's backups for Vostok 6" commented Yuri Petrovich casually. Sometimes it feels like nobody ever leaves Star City.
Training trips to Russia have a soothing effect on me. Life here has an inevitable cadence that quickly reconstructs the fragmented mental space I often arrive with into a simple, structured rhythm. Classes and simulator runs start at 09:00 and they're always scheduled in blocs of two hours or multiples thereof up to 18:00. Lunch break is always from 13:00 to 14:00. There is no need to drive a car, hence no possibility of running into traffic. No errands to run, no dentist appointments, no place to go for an after-work drink. The training facilities are a short 10-minute walk or 3-minute bike ride from the Profilaktorium, the building in which ESA rents office space and accommodations. As a minor variation on the way back from training one might consider a quick detour to the local "Dixy", which opened a couple of years ago as the first small serve-yourself-from-the-shelves supermarket. Really, a supermarket: ESA and NASA astronauts who trained here in the 90s would have gasped in awe at such convenience.
Since those early days, when several American astronauts flew on MIR and the Space Shuttle docked multiple times to the Russian Space Station, NASA's presence in Star City has left an odd architectural footprint. Nested between our Profilaktorium home, a brightly blue Orthodox church and a dull, unfinished apartment building, three white American-style cottages serve as lodging for NASA astronauts in training. When my fellow "Shenanigans" and I came here for the first time that September night of three years ago we were immediately introduced to the bustling social life centred around the American cottages. I had told NASA astronaut Scott Kelly of our impending arrival a few weeks earlier in Cologne during his last ESA training trip and he had immediately offered to organize a welcome dinner for us at the cottages. It was only the first of many social events that made us feel instantly welcome in Star City's international astronaut community: be it an evening barbecue, a pancake breakfast on the weekend or a potluck dinner, there was always an occasion to spend a few cheerful hours together and, for us rookies, to hear the stories and advice of space veterans. In an interesting twist of fate, Scott has recently been selected as NASA's first one-year crewmember. He will join Terry, Anton and myself on the ISS early 2015 to stay for a full 12-month rotation. It might not be as tasty as that dinner back then at the cottage, but I sure plan to have a meal ready for him when he shows up on Station with his crew! But that is the future. Back in September 2010 Scott was gearing up for his first long-duration spaceflight. A few weeks later there would be no return flight home for him, but rather a plane to Kazakhstan and, on a Baikonour launchpad, a rocket to space.
To be continued…