text:
In the summer of 2009, when I was first thinking of standing for a seat in the House of Commons, I consulted a number of people whose judgment I respect and trust. Besides my wife and other members of my immediate family, seven of the eleven people I took into my confidence are highly respected members of the business community in BC and else where in Canada. Of the others, one was an accomplished author, another a respected columnist, and another an academic and public intellectual.
These are educated and accomplished people in their fields. So I was extremely surprised that without exception, they all were adamant that I should not run.
Their reasons were as varied as the list was long: The public scrutiny on my private life; the time away from my wife and kids; the financial sacrifice; the high level of partisanship; the premium on style versus substance; and the inability to get anything done in Ottawa. They said that my choice to stand for office during my prime earning years would be professional suicide because "politicians" were held in such low esteem.
Much of their advice reflected the accepted wisdom about public life and spoke volumes about how a once noble calling had diminished to such depths in the consciousness of members of the so-called "elite". They seemed to almost take satisfaction in telling me how "crazy" I was to even think about running for parliament. One even sent me a handwritten letter in the mail to reinforce his opinion.
The more I reflected on their observations and advice, the angrier and more determined I got. In part because of the honest and heartfelt feedback of these good and sincere people, I decided to run.
Their points were well taken, I informed them a couple of weeks later, but I believe we cannot afford to shirk a responsibility we all have as citizens to raise the bar on our public life.
I took out a membership to the party that is most reflective of my values and the party with the leader that I most trust and respect. That was the Liberal Party of Canada under Michael Ignatieff's leadership. I sought and secured the nomination of my new party in West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country. I have been meeting my prospective constituents on a regular basis for over a year now.
Since being a candidate, not one of those people I consulted – those that whine and complain about the sorry state of our public life and governance - has shown up in any way. They have been highly conspicuous by their absence. They've all been too busy or otherwise engaged. This has been a disappointment to me because they are the very people that lament the sorry state of our politics. Yet these are the people that I have found to be the most disconnected from it.
This has also been a real eye-opener.
On the other hand, I've found that the people that have emailed or called me, turn up at the roundtable discussions, coffee parties, and town halls, are not the type that discouraged me form running in the first place. They are retired people, veterans, students, the unemployed. They are the small businessperson, the trucker, logger, retail employee, trades person. They are health care professionals, cops and firefighters. They are the working person, welfare recipient, corporate middle manager, and the stay-at-home mother. They come from all walks of life. They are old and new Canadians, and as I've discovered, even Lost Canadians.
These people have done what a vast majority of my business friends have failed to do thus far: Show up. And when they do, they don't want to talk about how to get more of something for themselves, but they talk about how to make Canada a better place. They want to flesh-out the big issues. Canada's role in the world is very much on their minds. So too is climate change, education, good jobs, secure pensions, our healthcare system, how to build a sustainable economy, and how to strengthen our national institutions and restore faith and trust in our public life.
These people energize because they care so much that they take the time to show up and contribute. They want solutions and they don't mind tackling tough issues. They also don't mind making tough choices. What they want are straight answers to straight questions.
At our core, Canadians are deeply optimistic about the future of our country and they want leaders to lead. I know of someone else who gets the same energy surge and sense of determination from these folks. Five years ago, Michael Ignatieff returned to Canada from Harvard University, where he held the prestigious chair of the Carr Centre for Human Rights. He chose to enter public life at the very pinnacle of his career. He did so because of his love of Canada.
Ignatieff has set an example that some of us need to be reminded of from time to time. The act of showing up is the most important act in our citizenship and our democracy.
Read more Daniel Veniez here.


text:
Everyone is familiar with the iconic attractions of London but Saskia Graville's London Style Guide - now updated and fully revised - takes readers on a journey to the heart and soul of the city, revealing the hidden and stylish places that make the capital unique and eclectic.
There is an essence to London style, and you find it in the small, off-the-radar places: the one-off shops, street markets, corner pubs and local restaurants that Londoners themselves go to. These places share a certain eccentricity, quirkiness and independence of spirit, and that's what this book is all about.» Delivery Information

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Which of these options best describes you?
Are you:
Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Security Policy
Our goal at Urban Hub is to provide secure and comfortable restaurants,
hotels, lounges, parks and relaxation spots as workspaces alongside full-fledged hubs providing
workspace solutions. Increase your productivity...
Enjoy an unrestricted work life.
Phillip Durojaiye
- Co Founder Urban Hub


text:
REAL ESTATE- $old
Rebecca J. Erwin to Jon D. and Evelyn D. Thompson, 975 Warwick Court, Stonehenge, $193,500.
Chet G. Namboodri Jr. to Kenneth F. Porter, 1028 Blackburn Bluff, Dunlora, $611,300.
Fred Weismiller to Susan A. Webb, 2500 Summit Ridge Trail, Ashcroft, $949,000.
John Stearns to Thomas K. Ferrell, 4915 Moriah Way, Watts Station, Keswick, $591,700.
VanderLinde Housing Inc. to Andrea A. and Leslie J. Roberts II, 10442 Rolling Meadows Lane, Western Ridge, $494,950.
Virginia V. Smith to Robert I. and Lynn Kovacs Reid, 564 Nob Hill Circle, Nob Hill, $280,000.
Michelle D. Morris to Diane C. Huntley, 838 Beagle Gap Road, Crozet, $170,000.
Mary L. Preston to David Frey, 46 Canterbury Road, Bellair, $627,500.
Andrew S. Pettit to 982 Sutton Court LLC, 982 Sutton Court, Stonehenge, $170,000.
Richard W. Sadler to Mitchell D. Finch, 6857 Jefferson Mill Road, Jefferson Glen, Scottsville, $241,500.
Douglas G. Orndorff to Joshua Gosseling, 1050 Old Fox Trail Lane, Western Ridge, Crozet, $313,000.
Stacey A. Sinclair to Robert C. Andrews, 2271 Sparrow Lane, $235,000.
William E. Fox to Carolyn Fitzpatrick, 3715 Skye Court, Loftland Glen, Earlysville, $907,500.
Lillianne B. Tnaib, trustee, to Jack and Jacqueline Artale, 1107 Mill Park Drive Ext., Brookmill, $224,500.
Joseph K. Banks Jr., trustee, to William E. Fox, 3452 Devon Pines, Glenmore, Keswick, $670,000.
Applebees Restaurants Mid-Atlantic to d/b APPLEF LLC, $2,139,500.
Astar ASB VA2 LLC to Crown Motorcar Co. LLC, 1.7693 acres on Richmond Road, $4,152,200.
Robert C. Harris to Devin C. Terrell, unit in Turtle Creek condominiums, 109 Turtle Creek Road, $147,000.
David J. Frantz to Nakashia Adele Williams, 1272 Millpond Road, Village Homes of Mill Creek, $248,000.
Donald G. Knight to Kevin D. Fitzpatrick, 1352 Sandown Lane, Glenmore, Keswick, $902,500.
Sarah W. Magerfield to Paul Jasiurkowski, 4.14 acres at 759 Broomley Road, Flordon, $30,000.
Octopus Property LLC to Kristin M. Galvin, unit in Riverbend condominiums, 270 Riverbend Drive, $163,000.
Brian Costa to Michael J. Jones, 5417 Cory Court, Cory Farm, $393,000.
Martin M. Martin to Tribeca Lending Corp., parcel in Camelot, $164,372.
Hardy Management Co. Inc. (84 Lumber) to Spirit Spe Portfolio 2007 2 LLC, 2.694 acres at 2440 Leake Square, Airport Road commercial district, $1,300,000.
Samuel I. White, trustee, to Federal Home Loan Mortgage Co., unit in the Townhouses at 1134 Edmond Court, Crozet, $242,300.
Federal Home Loan Mortagage Co. to Lisa A. Killham, unit in the Townhouses at 1134 Edmond Court, Crozet, $242,300.
Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. to Christopher B. Roelofs, 3.040 acres on State Route 704, 6416 Esmont Road, Keene, $185,300.
George Cole McCray to Joseph C. Draego, 2703 Westmoreland Road, Westmoreland, $257,000.
Thomas H. Conner to Back Porch Properties LLC, 2730 Willow Oak Circle, Berkmar subdivision, $579,500.
Deep Acres LLC to MacMillan Pace LLC, parcel in Old Ballard Farm subdivision, $350,000.
Carol D. Larson to Ardyce S. Lightner, 30 South Pantops Drive, $168,500.
Hauser Homes LLC to J. Marshall Pattie, 1763 Old Trail Drive, Carriage Park, Crozet, $605,000.
William R. Huckle, trustee, to Duncan Whittome, trustee, 29.76 acres at 255 Rayford Farm Road, Rayford Farm, Earlysville, $1,161,675.
Mary Ix Norris, trustee, to Patrick C. and Donna S. Perrin, trustees, 19 Ednam Village Street, Ednam Village, $575,000.
Robert C. McCready to Donald Jay Murray, 3.160 acres at 5311 Markwood Road, State Route 664, $362,500.
Brian T. Duffy to Barbara B. Seig, 5744 Batten Road, Locust Hill Crozet, $602,200.
O. Whitfield Broome, ex., to Peyton E. Weary, condominium unit in University Village, 500 Crestwood Drve, $680,000.
Marcel Durieuz to Stanley Chung, 2668 Kendalwood Lane, Kendalwood Forest, $438,000.
Mia J. Aguilar to Paul C. and Annie Trampont, 0.186 acres at 831 Harris Road, Willoughby, $280,000.
Gregory G. Cooper to Reo Briarwood LLC, 2327 Finch Court, Briarwood, $187,000.
Bradley R. Javorsky to Reo Briarwood LLC, 2316 Finch Court, Briarwood, $195,400.
Bluma Q. Snell to Specialty Homes LLC, 49 Woodlake Drive, Four Seasons, $120,000.
Parkside at Charlottesville LLC to T. Allen Dukes and Scott A. Brown, condominium unit at 727 Denali Way, Parkside at Eagles Landing, $249,900.
R.D. Wade Builder Inc. to Pegasus Virginia LLC, 0.327 acres at 2291 Ferndown Lane, Glenmore, $550,000.
Jonette Aughenbaugh to Kathryn S. Sinclair, unit in Turtle Creek condominiums, 120 Turtle Creek Road, $120,000.
Madeline Holly to Helene V. Ramos, unit in Hessian Hills condominiums, 142 Hessian Hills Circle, $160,000.
Craig Enterprises Inc. to Equity Shelter LLC, 1424 Gate Post Lane, Highlands at Mechum's River, $365,000.
Rebecca T. Craig to Kennett L. and Judith B. Simmons, 27.860 acres at 1030 Rustling Oaks Drive, Rustling Oaks subdivision, $2,450,000.
Big Deal
Fred Weismiller to Susan A. Webb, 2500 Summit Ridge Trail, Ashcroft, $949,000.


text:
Tsukiji Market was closed on October 6, 2018 and moved to new market, Toyosu Market on October 11, 2018.
This is the most popular destination for the foreign travellers in Metro Tokyo. Tsukiji Market (築地市場) is the biggest wholesale market in Japan. You can see "Seri" that means the auction. Especially viewing Seri for Tuna is very popular. It is held from 5:00 am to 6:30 am on weekdays. You can taste very fresh sushi at the reasonable price!
You can get Tsukiji Market by Japan Railway. But you need to walk. So I show you how to get there by Japan Railway only for Japan Rail Pass user. And also I show you most popular and convenient way that is using subway. Continue reading How to access to Tsukiji Market by Japan Rail Pass


text:
How to buy a hail damaged car
Check for areas where damage has occurred. If hail isn't that common in your area, you can still check on weather sites for areas close to you who have received damage. Google also has heat maps for hail damaged areas that show you which areas near you have been hit the hardest by hail.
Don't give up at the dealer. You can check on Craigslist or the classifieds section of your paper for hail damaged cars owned by individuals. These discounts are often more significant and the deals are easier to negotiate down. Search online before you buy a car at the dealership. You can often find better deals online at eBay or other auction websites than in a dealership because individuals are less likely to price gouge.
Shop around. Go to each dealership (or call) and ask about the hail damaged cars, find a similar car at the next dealership and compare prices given by both.
Ask for damaged inventory. If you go into a dealership and don't specifically request cars that have been damaged by hail, the dealer will try to get you to buy a new car. You must ask right away, so they won't get confused about what you want.
Hold the dealer accountable. If a car sales rep gives you a promise, you should hold him accountable. If he or she makes a promise, you should be prepared to go to a different dealership if you don't feel comfortable.


text:
If you own your own HVAC service, you should want your employees to have the best knowledge and the best tools available to them. With the high costs involved in having a HVAC service today, most employers do not have many field employees. However, the field employees you do have should be equipped correctly, and there are a few ways to go about this.
Send Employees To Seminars
The first thing you can do is send your HVAC employees to various seminars in the area. The seminars you choose your for employees to go to should discuss both working skills and working tools for the job. Most seminars give HVAC business a discount on the fees for their employees to attend the seminars, and sometimes there are even no fees at all.
Look Into Private Companies
The next thing you can do is look into private companies that sell equipment to make HVAC jobs easier and safer. A great example of this would be Fan E Tool, which is an organization that sells HVAC service tools to make all HVAC jobs more rewarding and beneficial. There most recent tool is the famous fan blade puller. This allows one technician to remove the blade in the HVAC while another puts in a new blade. In addition to making HVAC jobs easier, this tool has saved many lives, too.
Owning an HVAC company is extremely serious because many people in the community count on these services. Additionally, customers are only going to hire reputable companies, so you must make sure your company makes a great impact by having the best tools and employees on the market. Follow the guidelines here will help you accomplish that.


text:
Morph:1eStar: We have Internet/homeline with Telstra Clear. I am hoping to retain our number when we move house next year. We will still be in the same city but on an adjacent exchange. Is it possible to move the number with us? Or is this dependant on exchange/telephony provider?
If you are or are going to move to an address the cable network then its not a problem in most cases ( as the cable network doesn't use exchanges) ,
Interesting - when I moved from Paparangi (Johnsonville for those uninitiated with the progressive suburbs...) to Kapiti (cable -> cable), was told I couldn't keep the same number.
Would be rather annoyed to find out that this wasn't the case (although I did change from 938-xxxx to 905-xxxx so perhaps I had to?)


text:
Title: Etiquette and Espionage
Author: Gail Carriger
Series: Finishing School
Who's it for? Teens
What's it about? Mrs Temminnick is at her wits end with her youngest daughter, Sophronia, who simply shows no interest in behaving like a proper lady. She prefers climbing to curtsying and so is enrolled in Mademoiselle Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality. But Sophronia soon realises that they're taught more than just the fine arts.
What's good about it? There's a great style to the writing; it makes for such a fun read! I love the alternate version of Britain it's set in too – one where werewolves and vampires are part of common society. I loved the world building full stop, it's rich and wonderful and steampunky.
Those who have read Gail Carriger's Parasol Protectorate series (a series for adults following the adventures of Alexia Tarabotti – also excellent reads) will recognise the world here as it's set twenty-five years or so before that series. It added an extra element of fun for me, especially seeing a young Genevieve and Sidheag.
The characters are awesome. Alright, so maybe they're not all particularly deep, but there's such a strong sense of fun in this that it's easy to bypass that. I enjoyed the friendships that cropped up and the utter acceptance of espionage and death as fairly routine.
This is the second – possibly third – time I've read this now as it's still just as entertaining as the first time I read it. There's a few books that you can only ever really read once; this isn't one of them.
What's bad about it? The ending is abrupt. A little too abrupt for me
The verdict? I keep saying this but this is so much fun! The plot is engaging, the lessons oddly intriguing, and the characters delightfully quirky. It's a great start to a new series and I seriously can't wait for the second part to come out.
If you're looking for an entertaining read with a dash of vampires that don't sparkle, and surprisingly civilised werewolves, mixed in with intrigue and mystery then this is for you.


text:
The Boxing World Cup is due to take place this year after a 12-year absence.
It will be held in the Russian city of Nizhny Novgorod in October and is expected to feature 16 countries and teams comprising a mix of Olympic boxers and professional fighters.
Up to $5 million (£4 million/€4.5 million) in prize money could be offered at the tournament.
The tournament's motto will be "Boxing for Peace", with competition due to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the end of World War Two.
If it is a success, AIBA hope to include female boxers in future tournaments.
The Boxing World Cup was originally launched in 1979 when it was staged at Madison Square Garden in New York City, with the United States beating the Soviet Union in the final.
It was held from 1979 to 1998 as an individual competition and from 2002 to 2006 as a team competition.
In 2008 the format returned to individual competition, though the team score was still accounted for, with Cuba triumphing.
Indeed, Cuba are the most successful team in the World Cup, winning seven of the 12 editions so far.


text:
With the exception of the session and persistent cookies required to ensure the website use safety and session cookies required for the purpose of age verification, we save cookies on your device only if you consent to it. By clicking the "Accept" button you agree to saving cookies on your device and using them for analytical purposes as well as in order to ensure the comfort of using the website.
To remember your choice regarding the acceptance or rejection of cookies we will save an additional cookie on your device for no longer than 1 year. By appropriately adjusting your browser settings you can delete the already saved cookies or block saving of new cookies. More information can be found in Stock Spirits Group Privacy Policy https://www.stockspirits.com/privacy_cookies.aspx
We produce and distribute a range of branded spirits, liqueurs, wines, vermouths and bitters.
A pure distillate produced according to tradition using the very best variety of apples to create a distinctive beverage with a pleasant aroma and refined taste. Available as 45% alcohol content.
Excellent distillate made from Williams pears with a strong aroma and delicate pear flavour. Available in 45% & 52% alcohol content.
A light distillate made from perfectly ripe apricots and produced using traditional methods before being allowed to mature in oak barrels for several months to create a soft golden colour and pleasant apricot aromas. Available as 45% alcohol content.
A pure distillate with the "kosher" mark, produced under strict conditions by distilling the finest plums without added spirit and aromas.
A distinctive and balanced taste of ripe plums that can be appreciated by all.
Available in both 45% and 52% alcohol content and best served at a temperature of 10°C.
*Product packaging and available sizes may vary across markets and are subject to change.
You need to be legally allowed to view this section in your country of access.
We will not use the information you provide here to contact you in any way.
Only check if you are not using a shared computer
I'm not old enough. Take me to the homepage


text:
I'm just learning some basics of model categories, so please forgive me if my question turns out to be trivial. I hope it does at least make sense.
A natural temptation is to relate this machinery to birational geometry; in particular one would like to find a model category structure having the birational morphisms as weak equivalences. More precisely it would be nice to have such a model structure on the category $Sch_k$ of schemes of finite type over a field $k$.
A natural problem arises: a model category is required by definition to have all small limits and colimits, and $Sch_k$ does not satisfy this. For limits the situation is not that bad. I believe the original work of Quillen required only the existence of finite limits and colimits. Since $Sch_k$ has finite products and fiber products, it has all finite limits.
On the other hand finite colimits need not exist. A simple way to see this is to realize that categorical quotients by equivalence relations do not always exist in $Sch_k$, and these are just some coequalizers. So my questions are:
Is there a canonical way to enlarge a category to add finite limits?
If this is the case, what do we obtain when applying this to $Sch_k$? The resulting category would have to contain algebraic spaces, as these arise as quotients of schemes by étale equivalence relations. How much bigger would it be?
Assuming one has a decent notion of birational morphism for these objects: is there a model structure on the enlarged category such that birational morphisms are the weak equivalences?


text:
The boys' basketball team at Bradwell Institute is ready to hit the court, and according to coach Pete Woodard, most of his starters will be young but experienced. They learned on the job.
"Last year, we played better than the previous year with a group of ninth-graders that were really productive," he said. "Although we had some juniors and seniors in the program, the majority of our productivity came from three ninth-graders and one sophomore. This year, those three ninth-graders are tenth-graders and that one sophomore is a junior. During our summer program, the same thing applied and those same four players were very productive. ... So barring any injuries, I'm looking for the guys to show up better than last year."
The Tigers' lone returning junior is Cameron Kight, who at 6 feet also is the team's tallest player. The three sophomores are Malcolm Dingle, Jamorris Hill and Miguel Pineda. Javante Richey will be their senior leader as a point guard.
"Every year, people always ask us the same question: 'What are you looking like?' My answer is I think we look good, but I don't know what my opponents are looking like," Woodard said. "I feel good about what I see in my gym. ... The guys have good attitudes. They have heart, and I think they can compete against anyone in the region."
Woodard said first and foremost he wants his team to work on rebounding.
"In our program, because we've always been a small team, our problem has always been rebounding first and then free throws second," he said.
Last season, the Tigers finished 7-19 overall and 6-12 in Region 3-AAAAA.
"I feel that we are going to be a better program than we've been in the past two to three years. I believe that in my heart," Woodard said.
The boys' basketball team at Bradwell Institute is ready to hit the court, and according to coach Pete Woodard, most of his starters will be young but experienced. They learned on the job.


text:
Waiting Rooms
Creating a lasting impression on your clients has never been more important in todays technology age.
Providing fresh drinking water for your clients is a powerful way to express your appreciation for their loyalty and ensure they are comfortable when visiting your organisation.
Aquastream staff will help you make the informed choice of watercoolers and drinking water for your waiting areas, providing you with excellent knowledge and experience.
Provide that exceptional experience that sets you apart from your competitors by investing in a stylish watercooler or drinking fountain for your wating rooms
Corporate Offices
- Waiting Rooms
- Breakout Areas
- Lunch Rooms
Factory & Warehouse
- Factory Drinking Water
- Lunch Rooms
- Rainwater Treatment
If you would like to speak personally with our team, please call 1800 446 500 for prompt and professional advice.


text:
Traumatic Burn Injury
With everything that you have been going through, fighting for your recovery, let the Law Office of David Milligan fight for you in your traumatic burn injury case.
Instead of hiring an attorney that will take your case among their countless other cases, you deserve a much more focused approach. We're very selective about the cases we take on because we believe that you deserve the absolute best representation possible.
Why Would You Consider Having The Law Office Of David Milligan Represent You?
In addition to our unparalleled representation of your case, Mr. Milligan is a "Master Advocat" through the National Institute for Trial Advocacy, he was the president of the Central California Trial Lawyers Association, recognized nationally for the last six years as an outstanding Civil Litigation Attorney through Martindale-Hubbel, and a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Advocates forum.
In other words, its very hard to find a nationally-recognized attorney that chooses to have less cases to provide the level of representation you deserve.
Thousands of people suffer burn injuries each year across the United States, sustained at work, while driving, or in household accidents. Burns of any degree can be extremely painful, and in some cases they will require long periods of recovery and rehabilitation, accompanied by extended hospital stays, costly surgeries, and continuing medical treatment. When the burns are the result of the negligent or reckless conduct of another party, a personal injury lawsuit may be filed to obtain compensation for the victim's pain and suffering, medical bills, and other related expenses.
Give us a call or email us to set up a free confidential case evaluation.


text:
Conflict and Security
The Chemical Weapons Convention
This book project examines the legal international framework surrounding the prohibition of chemical weapons and provides an in-depth explanation of the achievements of the Chemical Weapons Convention since its coming into force in 1997.
The Chemical Weapons Convention is the most complex and comprehensive disarmament treaty ever to be adopted and is intended to provide a robust assurance that chemical weapons will not be developed, produced, stockpiled, used or transferred.
To implement and enforce the CWC and verify the ongoing elimination of declared chemical weapons production capacity and stockpiles, the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) inspects military and industrial sites in several countries.
This project details the problematic issues of international inspection, verification and restriction of the production of chemical agents and examines the issues that must be addressed to ensure the regime's continuing vitality in the context of dynamic changes in the security environment, and in science, industry and technology.
The resulting book features contributions from government and OPCW officials and experts in international law, industry, government and media and highlights the challenges in implementation and assesses and recommends the means necessary to preserve the global ban on chemical weapons perpetually.
Page last modified 2019.04.16.


text:
High Heel Work Out
I think I can walk in high heels. I just blame the shoes if my feet hurt but is it the way I'm walking in my 5 inch heels that's actually causing the pain? The new edition of the Legwork out High Heel Fitness DVD is out! It was designed by New York multi-disciplinary KristinContinue reading


text:
There could not have been more appropriate weather for The Climbers Shop in Stony Stratford to launch as an Expedition Stockists. With a Siberian blast covering much of the UK in deep snow and plunging temperatures into the minus figures, the scene was very much set for a discussion of the merits of down insulation.
To celebrate their new Expedition Status, providing the full range of Rab expedition equipment to those tackling the limits of altitude or the farthest polar reaches, The Climbers Shop had arranged a full expedition event. The store was opened for the whole weekend with staff discussing planning, logistics and clothing for expedition climbing with those planning trips and expeditions to the world's greater ranges. Expert advice was on hand from shop staff as well as International Federation of Mountain Guides Association Director Adrian Nelhams and Rab Carrington himself, who first began manufacturing expedition clothing and equipment over 30 years ago.
Despite the difficult travelling conditions, the shop was busy throughout the weekend, demonstrating the high level of interest in expedition travel. The Rab Team were also in attendance, running a competition to win some of our newest down clothing, discussing key products with customers and explaining the history of expedition clothing with the help of Rab himself.
Rab Expedition Stockists
Our expedition clothing is designed specifically for use at high altitude and on polar expeditions, providing the high levels of protection necessary in these extreme environments. Our expedition down clothing is hand-filled at our headquarters in Derbyshire and sold by select retail partners whose staff receive regular, comprehensive training to make sure those undertaking serious expeditions are outfitted safely. Commenting on the addition of The Climbers Shop to our Expedition Stockists, Chris Vanderhoven (Head of Rab UK Sales) commented – "It's great to have the Climbers Shop certified as a Rab Expedition Stockist, adding their expertise to the sale of our most important equipment and providing a fantastic resource to those from the South of England who are looking to learn more about expedition kit."


text:
Directors Tim Sheehan and Paul Wood share on how SSKB is making a positive difference in the lives of lot owners.
"We have created the kind of company where people feel comfortable enough to approach us with any question and know they will be given support and direction from an industry professional," Paul Wood.
It takes dedication, education, experience and a real passion for the industry to become an established and well respected body corporate management company. It is these qualities that have been the driving force behind SSKB since 1995.
For almost 20 years, the team at SSKB has been building and maintaining relationships with key stake holders with a united mission statement at the forefront of all proceedings, 'making a positive difference in the lives of lot owners.' SSKB Director Tim Sheehan said the company strives to make a difference in three ways.
"We believe in hiring the best people for the job and giving them superior training; providing our clients with second to none service and developing new products and services for lot owners and bodies corporate," he said.
"Great service is about recognising the needs of clients and attending to those needs as quickly and efficiently as possible."
"The committees that work with us have been able to utilise our knowledge and experience to make decisions which promote harmony within their communities and increase property values."
"Additionally, we ensure our teams frequently receive communication training, as we believe in continually upgrading our skills," he said.
Tim has been with SSKB since the year 2000, initially working with developers to structure new projects. In 2004 he was appointed chief executive officer and in 2007 became a director. He holds bachelor degrees in law and commerce as well as a certificate IV in Body Corporate Management, and is committed to using emerging technologies in delivering SSKB's second to none service.
Fellow Director Paul Wood has over 15 years experience in community management including owning and operating management rights, accounting and development. He also joined SSKB in 2000 as a body corporate manager, with an extensive portfolio of buildings. Due to his accounting background, he was appointed as the group financial officer/company secretary in 2004 and then director in 2007 when Tim and Paul acquired 100 percent ownership of SSKB.
Paul said it was his belief that a body corporate management company should continually be looking to the future, staying up to date with changes and developments within the industry, and ultimately improving the lives of clients. "This is not always easy as we are dealing with people's homes and investments along with some sensitive decisions," he said.
The team at SSKB pride themselves on being professional, reliable and most importantly approachable. "We have created the kind of company where people feel comfortable enough to approach us with any question and know they will be given support and direction from an industry professional," Paul said.
Tim and Paul are excited about what the future holds for SSKB and are happy to engage with SSKB clients to help make a positive difference in their lives. To contact Tim directly click here or to contact Paul directly click here.
Click here to watch SSKB client testimonials


text:
She Sports Switzerland
We believe that success is as uniquely defined as you are, but that getting there is a team sport.
Our mission at She Sports Switzerland is to be that team. To champion women working in sport. To share experiences, to create opportunities, to have your backs, to inspire, to give confidence, to challenge, to connect. To raise women in the world of sport until the playing field is level.
We champion women working in sport in three ways:
Through Live Events
We create real life speaker events in the type of environment that takes the awkwardness out of networking, where you can be yourself and where you'll meet like-minded but still challenging, inspiring and accessible women from all levels of the sports industry. This is where you'll meet your career team mates.
Through Sport Meet-Ups
Most of us were inspired to work in sport because we love playing sport. But the irony of working in it can mean that your time to do it is squeezed. We are here to change that by putting on sporty meet-ups that give you a ready-made team to do it with and an easy way of dusting off your old trainers or trying out something completely new. We cater for ALL abilities. We work with local entrepreneurs who want to open their doors to more women. It's networking without you realising it and your body will thank you for it. This is where you'll meet your physical team mates even if it's an individual sport.
Through Our Online Community
Lives are busy, we get that. So our online community will give you the virtual team you need when you can't be physically with us. Through our website, newsletters, blogs, social media channels and She Speaks Series of women in sport interviews, we will give you a place to hang out, some food for thought, an opportunity for healthy debate and inspiration wherever you are in the world. This is where you'll find your virtual team.
We are a group of women who work in sport, who love sport for the way it brings people together and believe that the world, and especially women, need more opportunity to benefit from its powers of connectivity.
We give our time and experience on a 100% voluntary basis. We are about supporting women in sport at all stages of their careers and at all levels of sporting ability. So whether you're starting out on your journey in the sports industry, an experienced woman returning to the corporate playing field after a career break or a seasoned CEO, we exist to be your team.
And you are our team too. Beyond the humans working hard in the background to make She Sports Switzerland exist, we are defined by the women – and men – who make up our community. And to us, that is such a powerful thing because we are so much bigger than ourselves.
If you would like to join our She Sports community and become part of our great team, please follow the link below to fill out our short application form.


text:
23 November 2011
By Kari Williamson
The US renewable energy industry has received over US$65 billion in tax credits, grants and soft loans under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. However, unless the private sector steps into the breach with substantial new investment, project development will slow.
The cash-based incentive programme is due to expire at the end of 2011, and tax credits are likely to again become the most important Federal subsidies supporting renewable project development in the US. These incentives propelled the sector's growth for much of the past decade, particularly in the run-up to the financial crisis.
The report, The Return – and Returns – of Tax Equity for US Renewable Projects, delivers two major findings about tax credits: first, that the economics of 'tax equity' – the part of a renewable project's financing structure used to take advantage of tax credits – can provide attractive returns for parties involved in these transactions; but second, that the US renewable sector will require new sources of tax equity if it is to meet market demand for project finance.
"This analysis shows that tax equity economics can be made to work for the right projects," says Michel Di Capua, Head of Analysis, North America, at Bloomberg New Energy Finance in New York. "There is life after expiry of the Treasury cash grant programme. Financing for the US renewable sector will look quite different in 2012 compared to the past three years once the cash grant is gone, but different does not mean dead."
This article is featured in:
Policy, investment and markets


text:
This Is How US Agents Sneak Into Pakistan
March 15, 2010 Leave a comment
For a few hundred dollars, low-paid border guards are allowing entry into Pakistan to spies and agents of multiple foreign intelligence agencies operating in Afghanistan. In this story and video, see how a US lady entered Pakistan through Torkham on Saturday, Mar. 13, 2010, without visa and without the knowledge of Pakistani intelligence officers posted there. This happens in a country that faces terrorism exported by both US-controlled Afghanistan and its Indian ally.
TORKHAM, Pakistan—Rampant corruption and a weak Pakistani state are helping the entry into Pakistan of spies and terrorists from multiple foreign intelligence agencies operating in Afghanistan. Almost all terror in Pakistan is coming from Afghanistan.
This American woman tried to sneak into Pakistan through Torkham on Afghan border today, Saturday, Mar. 13, 2010, around early afternoon. She was wearing an Afghan woman's burqa and apparently spoke local dialects. She would have successfully crossed into Pakistan safely hidden among a group of Afghan women but something about her demeanor raised the suspicion of a Pakistani border guard.
However, the border guards, known as Khasadars, made sure that Pakistani intelligence officers posted in the area are not told about this arrest. Torkham is considered a hot station within Kasadar tribal force circles. With salaries that go less than PKR 10,000 per month [less than US$ 130], major checkpoints such as Torkham provide an extra source of income for the Khasadars through bribes from travelers.
The guards kept the woman in a room for about thirty minutes and then let her enter Pakistan in her burqa. She paid the Khasadar guards a handsome amount of money as bribe. According a source in the Khasadar Force who witnessed the whole thing, the woman didn't panic. She appeared composed and familiar with the ways of the border guards. She knew what to do in such a situation.
Thanks to my contacts in the border force, I was able to make a cell phone video of her passport while the Khasadar chief at the checkpoint talked to her.
Her name on the passport was Zohra Rehmati, which makes her an American from either Iranian or Tajik-Afghan extract.
Over the past four years, a large number of US agents have entered Pakistan through Afghanistan. Several have been arrested in different parts of the country disguised as Afghan men, complete with beards and Turbans and fluent in Pashto, Dari and Urdu. Unfortunately, much of this covert American activity was sanctioned first by the Musharraf government and now by the pro-US Zardari-Haqqani combine in the incumbent government.
Ms. Rehmati, if that is her real name, may or may not be a CIA operative, or one of its private contractors associated with either DynCorp or Xe International. But such lax security in a country that is a target of terrorism, DynCorp managed to create quite a covert network in Pakistan before being busted by Pakistani security last year. DynCorp remains in Pakistan, thanks to backing from both the US Embassy in Islamabad and the pro-US government, despite repeated attempts by the country's security officials to force the US defense contractor to wrap up its operations here. Xe International, formerly known as Blackwater, also operated in Pakistan until 2005 before being moved to Afghanistan, according to an earlier report in the New York Times. But going by the number of incidents in Pakistan over the past couple of years where US private agents were seen operating in major Pakistani cities, it is safe to say that both contractors continue to quietly operate in Pakistan in one
Private contractors help give CIA the benefit of deniability if an agent is arrested on foreign territory.
CIA has been known to send US citizens of foreign descent to their home countries for espionage.
The most recent example is Roxana Saberi, an Iranian-American who was busted in Tehran carrying sensitive documents handed to her by an informant. Ms. Saberi was sent to Iran posing as a journalist. CIA even managed to get her newspaper accreditation from a major American newspaper. The US government was embarrassed at the arrest because Ms. Saberi was arrested red handed receiving official documents from a contact.
In Pakistan, a State that is falling apart at the seams, with no central figure or department to control the rot, is providing the perfect environment for meddling in the country not only by the United States, UK, India and other established powers based in Afghanistan, but also by a puppet regime like that of Mr. Hamid Karzai and his spymasters, who in eight years are in a good position today to wreak mayhem inside Pakistan while the politicians in Islamabad and the military in Rawaplpindi have little recourse beyond words of appeasement or caution during closed-door meetings with foreign powers in Afghanistan that are never translated into action to reestablish Pakistan's writ domestically and in the region.
Mr. Shah is an independent journalist based in Peshawar.


text:
Roxa R3W 95
2018 All-Mountain Boot
Game for something different? Give Roxa a spin, testers said. They knew little about the Italian brand, which specializes in three-piece shells and ultralight constructions, but were almost unanimously shocked by how much they liked the R3. The fit was refined and sculpted. Its over- all lightness, with an easy/effective walk mode, made it exceptionally agile. And the weight-to-ripability ratio was "stunning." Tischendorf: "Who are these guys? This boot rocked. Quick to the edge, fits like a glove, exceptional agility."


text:
80 Wall Street, 212-232-0152
This handsomely decorated Japanese fast-food outlet describes itself as "sushi & bowl." The sushi part features the most obvious combinations, which are as good as prefab sushi can get. While soups like beef with noodles suffer from a boring stock, the over-rice dishes are much tastier. Six bucks gets you katsudon, a fried pork cutlet mired in a scallion-laced omelet; bibimbap don, an adaptation of a mix-it-yourself Korean favorite; or, best deal of all, una don, a giant sauce-smeared eel fillet, at about one-third what you'd pay for it in an East Village Japanese joint. Open till 8 p.m. ¢
300 East 12th Street, 212-228-2909
Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair when you dine at Angelica, a throwback to San Francisco circa 1968 in both food and decor. Lucky for us the cuisine has evolved considerably since then to a well-seasoned repertoire based on fresh veggies and grains. A pair of ambitious specials is offered each day: On a recent visit, there was a memorable pair of curried grain croquettes topped with homemade chutney and napped with dal, with a side of roast beets ramping up the plate's earthy flavors. Soups are a particular strong point, with great depth of flavor achieved without resort to meat stocks. $
(new) INDUSTRY (FOOD) L
509 East 6th Street, 212-777-5920
The menu aims very high and achieves its goal at this expensive East Villager. We were knocked out by a wild- mushroom soup laced with truffle oil flaunting a heap of crunchy dried mushrooms in the middle, a lobster bruschetta incongruously employing little toast points like an English tea snack, and off-the-bone beef short ribs in a rich brown sauce with steamed leeks and pomegranate seeds. The ungainly multilevel space, though, leaves much to be desired, and the lack of tablecloths, the gleaming polyurethane on wooden surfaces, and the dim candle illumination reinforce the feeling that you're cargo in a ship's hold. $$$
192 Bleecker Street, 212-475-2355
While most downtown Tuscan trattorias make a halfhearted stab at authentic decor, this self-proclaimed osteria, by means of painted tiles and rustic wood furnishings, succeeded in convincing me I was steps away from Florence's duomo. The mixed-cold-cut affettati platter is a good start to your meal, as is a bowl of ribollita, the splendid bean-and-bread soup. Proceed to the perfect crespelles, semolina crepes wrapped around spinach and ricotta, done to a bubbly brown. Although the lamb stew was a little boring, the salmi in coniglio, a quarter rabbit smeared with an herbal sweet-and-sour sauce called agrodolce, was as exciting as any I've tasted recently. $$$
117 Perry Street, 212-255-9191
Planted in a storefront that was once a famous gay bar, later an off-price Caribbean café, Voyage is an upscale bistro with a unique menu, inspired by American Southern, New Orleans, Latin, and Afro-Caribbean cooking. The oxtail croquettes are especially good, crunchy on the outside, spilling rich meat once you bite into them, while the spoonbread, textured like a souffle, comes smothered in an agreeable crawfish sauce. The comfortable dining room is upholstered in tobacco-brown fabric and lined with photos of Cuban men; the more boisterous barroom has its own special menu, where you can taste the signature appetizers without blowing a wad. $$$
243 West 14th Street, 212-255-KLOE
Named after chef Erica Miller's grandmother's perfume, this Chelsea newcomer offers eclectic fare that judiciously incorporates elements from Asian, Middle Eastern, French, Mexican, and American Southwestern cooking. Recommended dishes include a geometric tower of beets and goat cheese, plump duck breast crusted with the Mediterranean spice mixture called zatar, and, especially, crisp sweetbreads rolled in macadamia nuts. Eligible for the most-daring-dish-of-the-year award: a medley of roasted winter vegetables served with a crock of a tasty Provençale brandade, made with tofu instead of salt cod. When was the last time you saw a tony and ambitious restaurant serve a consciously vegan entrée? $$$
2277 First Avenue, 212-860-6858
House of Tacos has handily aced out the competition to become East Harlem's premier Mexican café, attracting families as well as tables of working men. The weekend specials of pozole and the tripe stew called panza are fab, the former served in a bright red, chile-laced version heaped with hominy and cubes of pork, furnished with an array of add-ins like radishes, onions, and chopped green chiles, in addition to a trio of fried corn tortillas for crumbling into the soup. The usual range of antojitos is also available, but check the steam table for non-menu moles and other southern Mexican fare. ¢
1726 Amsterdam Avenue, 212-234-3334
Hamilton Heights, where Alexander Hamilton once strolled around his ranch, is a new hot spot for southern Mexican cooking, and Mexico Dos is home to some of the best-prepared moles in town. The green is compounded of fresh tomatillos, green chiles, and cilantro, spiced with epazote and hoja santo—unforgettable whether poured over pork ribs or mixed with tortilla chips in a splendid chilaquiles. Red, too, has its advocates, who love the complexity of flavor that arises from a combo of sesame seeds, raisins, almonds, and several kinds of chiles. Decent Tex-Mex is also available at this highly recommended spot. ¢
1922 Coney Island Avenue, Midwood, 718-998-8811
This late-night kosher dairy café is decorated in an oddball rustic style, and features a pan-Israeli menu, including pizza, hummus with mushrooms, feta cheese salad, and Yemeni specialties. Among the latter is malawach, a tasty Frisbee of oily puff pastry topped with a variety of goodies—in a biblical mood, we picked the version featuring honey, dates, and sesame seeds. Bissaleh means "a little something" in Yiddish, but also designates a serpentine pastry stuffed with cheese, spinach, mushrooms, or potatoes and sided with a tea-boiled egg. $
(new) EL TESORO
40-15 Fifth Avenue, Sunset Park, 718-972-3756
This new Ecuadorian is illuminated entirely with neon; the fierce, life-size shark at the end of the room is penned in by a red lasso of it. Though Andean favorites like roast pork and peanut-sauced tripe are available, the heart of the menu is seafood and ceviches. The version of the faddish marinated fish salad offered here is more like a tart cold soup, the tasty broth laced with purple onions and topped with crunchy corn nuts to remind you of the pre-Columbian origins of this dish. Don't miss the imported black clams, which tint the broth a lovely shade of slate gray. $
(new) FADA
530 Driggs Avenue, Williamsburg, 718-388-6607
Though the name suggests a Portuguese place, Fada is a French bistro specializing in the vegetable-intensive provender of Provence. The dining room affects a raffish air, and the menu runs from shareable combination plates called assiettes to refreshing salads, such as a salade frisée that features smoked duck breast in addition to lardoons, to main courses voluminous enough to stand alone as your evening meal. Recommended entrées: steak frites featuring a thin sirloin sided with mounds of glistening fries, and an aioli garni of cod and homemade mayonnaise accompanied by legions of steamed vegetables and a handful of snails. Open for breakfast. $$
2929 Avenue R, Marine Park, 718-998-7851
In stark contrast to other ancient Italians in the vicinity, Michael's consciously turns its back on all things Neapolitan and Sicilian, making it easy to go through an entire meal without marinara. The premises display a certain elegance, from the pebbly facade to the dim interior hung with medieval lamps that whisper "romance." Starters are few and mainly seafood, but your pocketbook recommends you go directly to the meat and poultry entrées, which are so voluminously sided that no other courses are necessary. Veal chop primavera re-creates a Milanese specialty—pounded thin, breaded, and heaped with salad, while another favorite is gnocchi in vodka sauce. $$$
7704 Third Avenue, Bay Ridge, 718-748-5600
When asked for a brunch recommendation, I often suggest Tanoreen. The Middle Eastern menu offers traditional Levantine breakfasts like vegetable fritters, hummus with meat, and foul madamas—tender fava beans dressed with olive oil, lemon, and garlic. Also brunch-worthy are two dozen hot and cold mezes, including a pungent olive spread flavored with capers, the dried Armenian sausage sojuk, and sambousek—little braided turnovers filled with potatoes and peas and served with a homemade cilantro pesto sauce. Sandwiches, grilled meats, and desserts broaden the culinary terrain. And don't miss the Arabic coffee, ceremoniously served in a shiny brass pot. ¢
121-17 14th Road, College Point, 718-762-3435
Though the top entrée price of $15.95 might seem a little steep for the peasant food of Eastern Europe served in a modest storefront so far north in Queens it feels like Minnesota, the portions are enough for Paul Bunyan. The nicely browned schnitzels of chicken, pork, and veal are toothsome, but nearly impossible to distinguish. Go instead for the pork Holstein: tender medallions dipped in butter and topped with two fried eggs, and side it with spaetzle ("nokedli"). On Tuesday night, a $15 buffet also includes salads, desserts, and a free bottle of "bull's blood" wine if there are four in your party. $
70-04 Roosevelt Avenue, Woodside, 718-446-1073
So what if Venezuelan food is on the bland side? The fare at this new café—one of only two Venezuelans in town, as far as I can tell—is exceedingly well prepared and fresh-tasting. The most memorable dishes after several visits include arepitas (fried miniature masa cakes served with a sour cream dipping sauce), tamales (each an entire meal wrapped in a banana leaf and loaded with beef, green olives, mild chiles, and raisins), and asado negro (pot roast slicked with garlic and salt). Late evenings, the bar heats up with an affable crowd. ¢
158-15 Northern Boulevard, Murray Hill, 718-321-9730
The specialty of this small and rustic Korean barbecue in Murray Hill, Queens, is Kobe-style beef, cubed and grilled over a gas flame in the middle of the table. You won't miss the charcoal: The tidbits come out supremely smoky and beefy-tasting anyway, and are best eaten without the rigmarole of wrapping them in lettuce. While the short rib seemed a little below par, the piping-hot and spicy-hot stew of mushrooms, baby octopus tentacles, and two kinds of pork tripe known as nakji kpchang jungol is also transcendently good. $$
This article from the Village Voice Archive was posted on March 18, 2003


text:
Games for Students to Play at Home
7 Places to Create Your Own Educational Games for Students to Play at Home
ProProfs Brain Games provides templates for building interactive crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, word searches, hangman games, and sliding puzzle games. The games you create can be embedded into your blog or shared via email, social media, or any place that you'd typically post a link for students. If you don't want to take the time to create your own game, you can browse the gallery of games. Most of the games in gallery can be embedded into your blog.
ClassTools.net templates for creating map-based games, word sorting games, matching games, and many more common game formats.
Purpose Games is a free service for creating and or playing simple educational games. The service currently gives users the ability to create seven types of games. Those game types are image quizzes, text quizzes, matching games, fill-in-the-blank games, multiple choice games, shape games, and slide games.
TinyTap is a free iPad app and Android app that enables you to create educational games for your students to play on their iPads or Android tablets. Through TinyTap you can create games in which students identify objects and respond by typing, tapping, or speaking. You can create games in which students complete sentences or even complete a diagram by dragging and dropping puzzle pieces.
Wherever I've demonstrated it in the last year, people have been intrigued by Metaverse. It's a free service that essentially lets you create your own educational versions of Pokemon Go. This augmented reality platform has been used by teachers to create digital breakout games, augmented reality scavenger hunts, and virtual tours.
There was a time when Kahoot games could only be played in the classroom and only created on your laptop. That is no longer the case. Challenge mode lets you assign games to your students to play at home or anywhere else on their mobile devices.
You can even share those challenges through Remind. And the latest update to Kahoot enables you and your students to build quiz games on your mobile devices.
Flippity's assortment of game templates.


text:
Plastic exports in India poised to touch $3.5 billion
Business Standard Share
Plastic exports are expected cross $3.5 billion in 2009-10, about 16 percent higher than last year, the Plastics Export Promotion Council said. "We expect export figures for the 2009-2010 fiscal may cross $3.5 billion, compared to about $3 billion in the same period the previous year," Plastics Export Promotion Council Chairman Manoj Agarwal told reporters. Stating that estimates for the April-June 2010 quarter were about $700 million, implying an export growth rate of about 20 percent, he said exports were mainly to advanced countries in North America, Europe, China and the Middle East. More
Reinforced biocomposites with guaranteed degradability in soil
SPE Plastics Research Online Share
Polymeric materials from renewable sources, such as thermoplastic starch polymers, are ecologically attractive because they come from renewable sources and their life cycle is closed without any environmental hazard. Novel biocomposites based on a biodegradable matrix reinforced with natural fibers have been developed in order to improve properties and reduce costs. The suitability of natural fibers as reinforcements of thermoplastic starch polymers is well studied. However, less attention has been paid to their biodegradability in soil. More
Affiliated with SPE but interested in more? Become a member! Join SPE today!
Thermoformer of the Year: Roger Kipp
Plastics Engineering Magazine Share
The SPE Thermoforming Division has named Roger C. Kipp Thermoformer of the Year for 2010. Mr. Kipp is vice president of marketing and engineering at McClarin Plastics, Inc., a leader in heavy-gauge thermoforming and fiberglass molding located in Hanover, Pa. Mr. Kipp's contributions to the plastics industry include hands-on development of tooling innovation, processes, and procedures; furthering education initiatives; and developing successful business models. More
China overtakes Japan as world's second-biggest economy
Bloomberg Share
China surpassed Japan as the world's second-largest economy last quarter, capping the nation's three-decade rise from Communist isolation to emerging superpower. Japan's nominal gross domestic product for the second quarter totaled $1.288 trillion, less than China's $1.337 trillion, the Japanese Cabinet Office said. Japan remained bigger in the first half of 2010, the government agency said. Japan's annual GDP is $5.07 trillion, while China's is more than $4.9 trillion. More
President Obama signs into law the Manufacturing Enhancement Act of 2010
Channel 6 News Share
U.S. President Barack Obama signed into law the Manufacturing Enhancement Act of 2010 last week at the White House. "I'm pleased today to sign into law a bill that will strengthen American manufacturing and American jobs," Obama said during the signing ceremony. "The Manufacturing Enhancement Act of 2010 will create jobs, help American companies compete, and strengthen manufacturing as a key driver of our economic recovery." The legislation is intended to reduce costs for U.S. manufacturers. It will also help creating new jobs and cutting costs for businesses. It would reduce and suspend tariffs on certain materials U.S. companies must import to make their products. More
Chemicals industry and global demand rebounds in 2010, says Plunkett Research
BusinessWire Share
Plunkett Research, Ltd. has released its newest market research and competitive analysis report, Plunkett's Chemicals, Coatings and Plastics Industry Almanac, 2011 edition, which identifies and analyzes major trends shaping the chemicals, coatings and plastics industry. According to Jack W. Plunkett, CEO of Plunkett Research, Ltd., "Global demand for chemicals and plastics is rebounding. Both basic chemicals and specialty chemicals sectors look better as of mid-2010." More
Kuwait a significant player in the industrial sphere
Global Arab Network Share
With a number of competitive advantages, including substantial hydrocarbons reserves, abundant liquidity and proximity to a number of growing markets in the region, Kuwait has the potential to be a significant player in the industrial sphere. However, expansion of the country's industrial base is currently being held back by certain factors. The government's control of oil production and export means that the private sector is mostly focused on financial services and real estate. More
Opinion: Banning plastic bags will kill California jobs, won't help the environment
San Jose Mercury News Share
The California state Senate is considering a bill banning plastic carryout bags. This legislation would tax consumers, forcing them to buy paper or reusable bags, and create an expensive new bureaucracy at a time of record deficits. The bill is consuming the time of our state government, while it still hasn't passed a budget. But let's focus on a more specific, immediate impact of the bag ban: the loss of jobs. More
The South African market for automotive plastics is poised for significant growth finds Frost & Sullivan
Newswire Today Share
Plastics are continuously replacing metal and glass in automobile applications in South Africa as they are light-weight, inexpensive and can be blended and molded for most applications. The integration of plastics has been instrumental in the automotive industry's ability to develop high performance vehicles with improved safety features and fuel economy. New analysis from Frost & Sullivan, South African Market for Automotive Plastics, finds that the market earned revenues of $157.3 million in 2009 and estimates this to reach $207.7 million in 2016. More
European recyclers consider opening new markets, like India
Plastics News Share
Europe's plastic recycling industry is too dependent on China as a market and should work to open up scrap exports to places like India, the Middle East and Africa, according to the head of one of Europe's plastics recycling trade groups. More


text:
Retail Capital
The Journey of Business.
In recognising the value and importance of small to medium enterprises (SME) in the South African economy, Retail Capital is partnering with SMEs to help them achieve business growth.
In November 2018 Retail Capital launched it's summer campaign showcasing the journey of business and telling the story of entrepreneurship. All businesses start the same way and follow the same journey … Some succeed, some fail… but the journey is the same. Tag 8 created an integrated campaign, combining video with digital media and tactical print. The video received over 250 000 views generating 10 281 total leads in total.
"Starting a business is easy. You need a white board, a cool idea, and a small amount of cash to get you started. The real challenge comes down the line, when you're trying to scale your business, stay true to your vision, and answer to investors who aren't in your business and don't share the same appetite for risk" says CEO of Retail Capital Karl Westvig.


text:
Manning finally getting a chance to play in Dome
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Mention the Saints and the city of New Orleans and the memories come quickly for Eli Manning.
The youngest son of Saints legend Archie Manning, Eli Manning went to the Superdome almost every weekend the Saints were home, and his father even took him to a road game every now and then.
When the Saints won their first playoff game in franchise history in 2000 against the defending Super Bowl champion St. Louis Rams, Eli Manning was there.
Ask Easy Eli about some of his early heroes and the names roll off his tongue.
Quarterbacks Bobby Hebert and John Fourcade, the `Dome Patrol' of linebackers Sam Mills, Pat Swilling, Vaughn Johnson and Rickey Jackson. Lots of great defenses.
And it was only roughly 12 minutes from his home.
Manning and his sore right heel will return to the Superdome on Sunday for his first game in the building as a player when he leads the New York Giants (5-0) against the Saints (4-0) in a matchup of two of the NFL's five remaining unbeaten teams.
"I don't think it will be any different for me emotionally," Manning said Wednesday after taking a limited number of snaps in practice as a precaution against aggravating his heel. "Once you get out there on the field and get your settings and surroundings, it's about going out there and playing good football. I don't think I'll be crying before the game."
The only tears he might shed would result from being kicked in his right heel, and you can bet that no matter how much his plantar fascia injury hurts, he will not be coming out of the game.
After all, this is a chance to play in front of his folks again.
The job of getting enough tickets belongs to Archie, even though Eli will have to come up with a couple himself.
"New Orleans is a special place for me," Manning said. "It's where I grew up, was born and raised for the first 18 years of my life before I went off to college."
Manning also was there when New Orleans needed him.
When the Big Easy flooded in 2005 when federal levees failed after Hurricane Katrina, Manning got on a plane and went to Baton Rouge and visited shelters to speak to many of the displaced. He later went to New Orleans to see the damage and check on the homes of his parents and brother, Cooper.
"I love New Orleans," Manning said. "I had a great childhood growing up there and wanted to do something, anything that I could to help out the city, anything to help out the people who have always supported me in New Orleans, in high school through college, even into the NFL, fans in New Orleans who have rooted for me and kept up with me and Peyton. It's a special place and I wanted to do anything to help out the people of the city."
This week, though, it's all business.
Manning is only taking the snaps his coaches think are most important to get him ready for the game.
His sore right heel did not get any worse playing less than a half in the Giants' blowout win over the Oakland Raiders. But coach Tom Coughlin is being cautious, noting Manning will do a little more work in today's practice and step it up again on Friday.
Manning got a list of the plays to be run on Wednesday at practice and chose the ones he wanted to run. If there was a new play or something a little different, Manning got the snap. The rest fell to David Carr.
"Ever since I have been in the NFL, (I looked forward to) the opportunity to play in the Superdome and go back to New Orleans," Manning said. "It's been a long wait; usually you don't have to wait this long to play an NFC team. We missed an opportunity a few years ago due to Katrina. I'm excited about going back there and playing in the Superdome, but also the environment of the game. It is going to be a good game, the fans are going to be fired up for it, so I am looking forward to it."


text:
My Nonprofit Reviews
342 profile views
1 reviews
Review for Downtown Jimmie Hale Mission, Birmingham, AL, USA
The Jimmie Hale Mission represents a true dedication to helping your fellow man throughout their darkest hours of life. With a caring staff and a commitment to help those in need the Mission has and continues to make a significant impact on the Birmingham community. You can see the love of Christ in everyone at the facility and how it truly impacts the men residing there.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
service at the facility and through aiding in outreach to the business community
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Role: Volunteer & I most recently served lunch with my company.


text:
Have you ever wondered why grocery stores place so many impulse buys near the checkout aisle?
They put those items there because they'll sell well there, of course, but the reason behind it is decision fatigue, as outlined in this thought-provoking article from the New York Times.
In its simplest terms, decision fatigue refers to the idea that people tend to make worse decisions after having made a lot of decisions. Much like muscle fatigue, if you flex your "decision" muscle too much, it will fail you. For extended reading on this facinating topic check out Willpower by Roy F. Baumeister.
If you think about your own life, you can probably see decision fatigue if you look around for it.
I know I certainly see it in my own life. I do far better at sticking to a grocery list if I go shopping in the morning as opposed to the evening. Almost all of my online impulse buys happen in the evening, too.
Why? Given all of the hats that I wear – parent, husband, homeowner, writer, community volunteer, friend, and so on – I make a lot of decisions on any given day.
I'm sure that you wear a lot of hats as well, and that means a lot of decisions.
Combat Decision Fatigue by Replenishing Willpower
The best solution for decision fatigue is the same as any other type of fatigue – rest. Nothing can beat a good night's sleep for recharging one's batteries. I firmly believe that there is nothing better for a person than going to bed and waking up without an alarm guiding you, so that you get a full sleep period without interruption that's of the length that your body needs.
Beyond that, there are many little steps you can take to minimize the impact of decision fatigue on your spending, your relationships, and your life.
Make vital decisions early in the day. If you have important decisions to make – or a high volume of decisions to make – front-load your day with them. That way, you'll be dealing with them with the maximum amount of rest.
I try to go grocery shopping in the mornings, for example, and I also try to do most of my writing in the mornings as well. If I have an important life decision to make, I try to do it earlier in the day.
On the flip side of that, save unimportant decisions for later in the day. Late in the day, I try to do things like mindless housework or something that's entertaining, not things that involve making important decisions.
You should also avoid situations where you're drawn to impulsive decisions late in the day. I have basically stopped browsing websites after mid-afternoon because of the ease of which I can be drawn into impulse buys. Similarly, I try to avoid grocery shopping at that time of the day.
Don't let decision fatigue coax you into making bad choices. Just front-load your days with all of your financial and spending decisions and avoid them entirely later in the day and you'll find yourself making better decisions on the whole.


text: Legal Notices Please review the following important notices before using our website. By using this website you acknowledge that you have read and understood these notices and accept these terms. Disclaimer Terms of Use Dr. Choe is conveniently located on Bellefontaine in Pasadena, CA. We specialize in general and cosmetic dentistry, while emphasizing quality and comprehensive care. Patient Registration Medical History


text:
Hi everyone! In honor of Jan Brett month, here are 10 things I think might be on Jan Brett's to-do list!
Some of this stuff relates to Jan Brett's real life, some of it to posts we've written or Jan's books, and some of it is just for fun!
1- Buy more meal worms for Astro (her pet hedgehog)
2- Health Department, to make sure immunizations are up to date for next exotic research trip
3- Set up meeting with the Angry Birds creators to discuss Angry Hedgie App
4- Pick up giant Hedgie costume from dry cleaner
5- Stock up on TP for tour bus
6- Speak with travel agent about Antarctica trip for Penguin book research (Wouldn't a penguin focused Jan Brett be great?)
7- Buy Dr. Scholl's gel inserts for book signing boots
8- Spend some time perusing PP&PB, the website of my favorite fans
9- Stop by big Nordic sweater sale
10- Gather winter woolens off the line, unless of course they've been spread through the yard by animals
There you have it.
Now, I hope you will all get your to-do's checked off.
Happy reading -Whitney
PS- We're trying something new today and linking up to the big Top 10 Tuesday party at Oh Amanda! Stop by and check out the fun!


text:
Recently a client remarked to me "When I take better care of myself, my animals do better". It was a very wise observation and it is true. Our animals will do better when we take care of ourselves. They are entrained with us and so they often take on our illness and behavior. As I shared last week, they often feel this is their purpose and choose to do this.
A veterinarian friend of mine has observed that often animals will share the same medical issues as their humans. I have seen that with my animals and my clients as well. Years ago (okay decades) before I learned to take care of my emotional and energetic health I suffered from ulcers. My dog Boo Boo did too and we both were on Tagamet (the ulcer drug at the time). I had blood tests that showed elevated liver enzymes and my dog Tiger had the exact same enzymes elevated. This actually happens very frequently. I also know a woman with diabetes whose dog also became diabetic and she had to give him insulin shots. If we ever needed proof that we are energetically connected to our animals that ought to do it.
Let's look at how it might be that this phenomenon takes place.
In her most recent book "Finding Your Way in a Wild New World", Martha Beck writes about a state she (and I) refer to as "oneness". It's when you are in the present moment to such an extent that you can feel your connection to all that is. All people, all animals, all plants, and even all things. Oneness. A very powerful feeling and being.
People that are "sensitive" or empathic feel this connection more intensely than others. It's not that they are more connected (we are all connected), they are just more aware of their connection. They feel it. They haven't closed off those aspects of their being.
Animals are this way naturally. They are always "empathic" and in "oneness". It's partly why they can do some of the amazing things they do like fly in flocks in complete unison, have awareness of a member of their herd that is miles away or know when their person is heading home.
Our animals cannot escape the energy we bring to the home. Fortunately, they are masters at dispersing the energy and taking care of themselves by living in the present moment. It turns out this is one big way we can help them too…by living in the present moment.
The great thing about being "present" is that you instantly dissolve worry and fear. How is that? Well, just think about it a moment.
Right this very moment where you are, is there a need to fear for your life? Is there anything threatening you? You see in this moment, you have all you need (or you wouldn't be here).
It's when we start to look into the future…but I have that big presentation to make…or I have all these bills to pay…or …any future worry that we encounter discomfort. These worries don't exist in this exact moment and that is why there is so much peace in the now.
Of course we can also go into the past…why did I say that to her…what if I hadn't done that…and any other of a multitude of "what if's" that cannot be changed by focusing on them and only take away the power you have right now.
We don't need to beat ourselves up about this (it would be counter-productive) but we can use it as an incentive to take a proactive stance in caring for our physical, emotional and energetic well-being. When we stay in the now, give ourselves time to relax, eat healthy, rest, and play, we create a healthier energy that our animal companions can feel. So when we do better, they do better. And isn't that just the best gift you can give to yourself and the animals that share your life?


text:
|1 комментарий
0 25 Марта 2012
"Leave the angels in the city"
[Verse 1: Game]
Tell them muthafuckas I'm forever paid
California king, wrestle gators in the Everglades
Drive up out that muthafuckin swamp in the Escalade
So before you put that Red rag in your pocket
I wanna see your fuckin resume
Started off on Ground Zero, then I start to levitate
Rip rappers a new asshole: I never hesitate
Dre beats on, smoking that chronic just to meditate
I'm a give em hurricanes until another Levee break
You niggas is featherweights, I'm Aftermath's heavyweight
Now Dre's weapon of mass destruction is 'bout to detonate
When a nigga?, shit, I was selling weight
Now a nigga's selling millions, now it's time to celebrate
Performing in front of millions, nigga, every race
64 in the '64, now watch the Chevy scrape
4th album, no 5 mics? Then let em hate
But I'm not stopping til I'm the king in every state
[Hook: Kendrick Lamar]
Recognize my life, ridicule my fights
Give me fuel for the fire burning when I yearn these lights
In the midst of the hieroglyphs my fingertips start to write
Familiar with cartwright, cause I wrote that shot, I'm a raging bull
When the? drops. My record, I'm a wreck it, even if my record don't pop
I'm a tie your neck on a Downtown building
Let the? behind me tell em they can find me
In the dark with the ghetto children
Look at my heard, nigga fuck your feelings
This is me!
[Verse 2: Game]
I'm sick of motherfuckers talking about "the West died"
Can't you hear my heart beating?
That's the motherfuckin West side, you test me, you test God
I'm his son, insane songs, you come at me
Then I can split you with this Tommy gun
You won't have time to run, I'm from the Compton slums
And that's how the West ride
I'm from the city where 2 of the best died
Rest in peace to both of em, spit like I'm the ghost of em
Damn, I said I spit like I'm the ghost of em
Name your top 10, I'm harder than the most of em
Matter of fact, shorten your list nigga, top 5
Game, Biggie, Hov, prolly Pac, Nas
No particular order, bet a mil that I slaughter
Serve niggas, give a fuck what you ordered
How dare you niggas pop fly when I'm the nigga
Sold 5 mil out the gate and numbers do not lie
[Hook: Kendrick Lamar]
[Verse 3: Game]
I gave you the Documentary, shit was a classic
Gave you Doctor's Advocate, you ripped it out the package
Came with LAX, since critics said it was average
I was stressed the fuck out, torn between Aftermath and
Geffen, Interscope, now I got you in the scope
Spill the red ink on the paper, it's like my pen is broke
And this is what you all been waiting for
I'm the lost angel knocking on Satan's door
What the fuck y'all take me for?
I love you cause you hate me more
I'm Kobe on the Lakers floor, except I give you 84
Shake you like Haiti's floor
Walk up on you like "what's going on baby boy? "
Shocks in that Mercedes door
Either I'm crazy, or the black Slim Shady, or
That be the reason that Baby said he would pay me more
But I still owe Jimmy one more album
The best the West has ever seen - no disrespect to Calvin
[Hook: Kendrick Lamar]
[Verse 4: Kendrick Lamar]
And I wear? on my shoulder
Soldier, like a lieutenant, and the coupe tinted
Got pulled over, Johnny always lock a nigga down
Knowing damn well we don't wanna see the box like Manny Pacquiao
Little nigga Mayweather size, ride like Pac
And his? is now a radar
Til the federal come through and raid ours
Reminiscing on the LA Raiders
Was in my home, snapback fitted on my uncle's dome
And I don't condone dickriding, I'm addicted to
Westsiding, living in a city where the skinny niggas die
And the semi bullets fly, but it turn me to a lion
Trying, and I mean that shit
Game came through, put the city on his back
I was in the city, a nigga has seen that shit
"Compton! ", a nigga gotta scream that shit
Never went commercial, Never T.V. screened that shit
Can't block or screen that shit, now everybody seen that shit
Текст песни «The City feat. Kendrick Lamar»
|Перевод песни отсутствует. Помогите проекту, добавив перевод.


text:
"Mindfulness is often spoken of as the heart of Buddhist meditation. It's not about Buddhism, but about paying attention. That's what all meditation is, no matter what tradition or particular technique is used.
In Asian languages, the word for mind and the word for heart are the same. So if you're not hearing mindfulness in some deep way as heartfulness, you're not really understanding it. Compassion and kindness are intrinsically woven into it. You could think of mindfulness as wise and affectionate attention.
Mindfulness is not about getting anywhere else — it's about being where you are and knowing it. We are talking about awareness itself: a whole repertoire of ways of knowing that virtually all come through the senses.
My definition of healing is coming to terms with things as they are, so that you can do whatever you can to optimize your potential, whether you are living with chronic pain or having a baby. You can't control the universe, so mindfulness involves learning to cultivate wisdom and equanimity— not passive resignation—in the face of what Zorba the Greek called the full catastrophe of the human condition."
— Jon Kabat-Zinn
Jon Kabat-Zinn Talks About Bringing Mindfulness Meditation to Medicine


text:
Introduction: Camera Storage on a Budget With Hidden Component
Do you want to store your camera in a secure way that will protect it from bumps on your journeys ? Do you want to be able to carry your equipment in a customized case ensuring maximum protection?
We all know that digital cameras are expensive, and to get that glory shot you have to bring it out into the world where damage might happen. Building a hard case with customized blanks for your equipment and shock absorbent materials is easier than you might think.
Eva foam: is the foam used in most flooring mats at gyms. It's used for its impact absorbent qualities to protect the floor when weights are dropped.
Note: if anything happens to your camera I am not at fault.
Step 1: What You Need:
- Paper and pencil
- brief case- I found mine at value village for 7$ (large enough to fit your equipment with extra room left over).
- Foam Mats found at walmart for $10 - (make sure its EVA foam)
- Your camera gear.
- Box cutter
- Glue
Step 2: Measure and Cut
- Measure the length, width and height of the interior of you briefcase.
- Using the height determine how many pieces of foam will fit comfortably inside. It's better to have a small gap than to try and stuff too many foam sheets inside.
- Use the length and weight to cut them out to the correct size.
Step 3: Start Customizing
- Lay out your gear on your cut foam and trace it out. Cut out these holes
if you are trying to store a small part, like lens filters, only cut their hole out on the top piece of foam, small objects need less room and to prevent them from moving around during transportation so their hole should be as small as possible, thus eliminating movement.
you can see I did this for the mini tripod where in I only started cutting out its hole on the second piece of foam.
You can also see I cut a little square in the top right in the second corner. This serves as a secret compartment to store my SD cards or other private materials like money or a key. To access it you would have to remove the layers of foam on top.
Step 4: Glueeee
- The next step is to glue the foam together. Since there is a secret component in my case I glued every piece together except for the bottom one where the compartment lies thus allowing me to still access it.
Now you can see that my parts don't lie flush with the bottom. I placed a piece of foam with the same holes on in the top part of the briefcase and glued it in place, ensuring that my gear had minimal room to move around and is still protected on all sides.
your gear does lie flush just fill the top part of your briefcase with more pieces of foam cut to size with no holes in it.
Step 5: Go Shoot
- Put your gear in and go shoot!
Participated in the
Photography Contest 2017
Be the First to Share
4 Discussions
very nice instructable and very professional looking results too
Thank you!
Pretty cool! I was dumpster-diving in my neighbor's trash a while back and I found a really nice silver briefcase that would be perfect for this.


text:
If You Knew Her by Emily Elgar
Find it at:
Goodreads | Booklikes | LibraryThing
A woman in a coma.
The man who could save her life—if only he could speak.
When young, beautiful Cassie Jensen arrives unconscious to the intensive care ward at St. Catherine's hospital after being struck in a hit-and-run while out walking her dog, chief nurse Alice Marlowe thinks she looks familiar. She starts digging deeper into Cassie's relationships, only to discover something about her patient that she'd been keeping secret from everyone, including her devoted husband and family. Soon Alice finds herself obsessed with her patient's past and future, even willing to put her own career on the line in her single-minded search for answers.
Frank, a patient on the same ward who has locked-in syndrome, can hear and see everything around him but cannot speak. Soon he comes to understand that Cassie's life is still in danger. While the police continue to look for clues, only Frank holds the truth, but he's unable to communicate it.
As the novel flashes between points of view, the reader will get closer and closer to the truth of who Cassie Jensen was, and why she was out on the road that fateful night...
When love drives you crazy . . .
When sexy Joe Malone never calls after their explosive kiss, Kylie shoves him out of her mind. Until she needs a favor, and it's a doozy. Something precious to her has been stolen and there's only one person with unique finder-and-fixer skills that can help—Joe. It means swallowing her pride and somehow trying to avoid the temptation to throttle him—or seduce him.
the best thing to do . . .
No, Joe didn't call after the kiss. He's the fun time guy, not the forever guy. And Kylie, after all she's been through, deserves a good man who will stay. But everything about Kylie makes it damned hard to focus, and though his brain knows what he has to do, his heart isn't getting the memo.
… is enjoy the ride.
As Kylie and Joe go on the scavenger hunt of their lives, they discover surprising things about each other. Now, the best way for them to get over "that kiss" might just be to replace it with a hundred more.
Anatomy of a Scandal by Sarah Vaughan
Find it at:
Goodreads | Booklikes | LibraryThing
Sophie's husband James is a loving father, a handsome man, a charismatic and successful public figure. And yet he stands accused of a terrible crime. Sophie is convinced he is innocent and desperate to protect her precious family from the lies that threaten to rip them apart.
Kate is the lawyer hired to prosecute the case: an experienced professional who knows that the law is all about winning the argument. And yet Kate seeks the truth at all times. She is certain James is guilty and is determined he will pay for his crimes.
Who is right about James? Sophie or Kate? And is either of them informed by anything more than instinct and personal experience? Despite her privileged upbringing, Sophie is well aware that her beautiful life is not inviolable. She has known it since she and James were first lovers, at Oxford, and she witnessed how easily pleasure could tip into tragedy.
Most people would prefer not to try to understand what passes between a man and a woman when they are alone: alone in bed, alone in an embrace, alone in an elevator… Or alone in the moonlit courtyard of an Oxford college, where a girl once stood before a boy, heart pounding with excitement, then fear. Sophie never understood why her tutorial partner Holly left Oxford so abruptly. What would she think, if she knew the truth?
Reign of the Fallen by Sarah Glenn Marsh
Find it at:
Goodreads | Booklikes | LibraryThing
Odessa is one of Karthia's master necromancers, catering to the kingdom's ruling Dead. Whenever a noble dies, it's Odessa's job to raise them by retrieving their souls from a dreamy and dangerous shadow world called the Deadlands. But there is a cost to being raised--the Dead must remain shrouded, or risk transforming into zombie-like monsters known as Shades. If even a hint of flesh is exposed, the grotesque transformation will begin.
A dramatic uptick in Shade attacks raises suspicions and fears among Odessa's necromancer community. Soon a crushing loss of one of their own reveals a disturbing conspiracy: someone is intentionally creating Shades by tearing shrouds from the Dead--and training them to attack. Odessa is faced with a terrifying question: What if her necromancer's magic is the weapon that brings Karthia to its knees?


text:
5 Things You Should Know About Accidents and Car Insurance Rates
1. It's True, Accidents Affect Your Car Insurance Rates
There are plenty of good reasons to drive carefully (you don't need us to tell you that), but the fact that low car insurance rates depend on safe driving habits is a biggie. How much do rates depend on your record? Quite a bit, according to a 2020 study from Coverage that pinned the average premium increase in the U.S. for someone with full coverage at 34%. That's not just a ding on your record, it's a ding to your bank account, too.
On average, a collision that costs your insurer $2,000 in claims could raise your rates by around 44% next time you renew your insurance.
2. Rates Don't Always Go Up After an Accident
It's true that accidents affect car insurance premiums. In fact, your driving record is one of the two biggest factors that insurance companies consider when they're setting rates. This is because past accidents — especially if they were your fault — are a fair indicator that the company might have to pay out claims on your policy in the future.
That said, rates won't always go up if you file a claim. Insurers are often pretty reasonable when it comes to what does or doesn't merit a premium increase. If you've maintained a clean record over the years, you're a lot less likely to get penalized for things like minor fender benders and not-at-fault collisions.
Your Rates Will Probably Go Up After an Accident If…
- You're found to be at fault for the collision
- The cost of damages is significant (in the thousands)
- You've filed more than one claim with your insurer
- You've filed claims with other insurers within the past three years
- You live in a state with no-fault auto insurance laws, where your own insurer must pay for your injuries no matter who caused them
Your Rates Might Not Go Up After an Accident If…
- The other driver is found to be 100% at fault for the collision
- It's your first incident, and your auto insurance policy includes accident forgiveness
- It's a minor incident, and you have a long history of safe driving
- It's a minor incident, and you've been with your insurer for a number of years without filing a claim
3. Accidents Follow You for 3 Years, Even if You Switch Insurers
If your rates have gone up because of a collision, you might be wondering how long you'll be saddled with a higher premium. The short answer? Three years. That's how long most companies will count a past incident against you when determining rates.
The next question that comes to mind is usually "Well, what if I switch insurance companies?" Unfortunately, the answer is still "three years."
Here's the thing: Every property claim you file (whether for auto or homeowners insurance) gets logged on your personal insurance report card. This record, known as a CLUE report, goes back seven years and is accessible to any insurance company you might apply for coverage through. So whether or not you choose to stick with your current insurer, claims you've filed with them will still affect your rates for the standard three-year period.
4. You Can Protect Your Wallet with Accident Forgiveness
There's no other way to put this: It's a real bummer that rate hikes can affect you for three years after a collision. That's a long time to be shadowed by what was likely a split-second slip up. Fortunately, car insurance companies realize that accidents, in the purest sense of the word, do happen. That's why they offer forgiveness programs.
Accident forgiveness protects you from a premium increase after your first collision if you have an otherwise-clean driving record.
If your policy includes accident forgiveness, you get one get-out-of-jail-free card; rates won't go up after your first at-fault accident. Each company has unique parameters around customer eligibility, price, and the kinds of accidents that are excusable under this program. However, they're all aligned on the fact that you must have a pretty spotless driving record in order to qualify for accident forgiveness.
5. You Should Still Tell Your Insurer About Every Accident
After a minor collision, it's not uncommon to wonder whether you should file an insurance claim at all. Maybe the total damage amount is relatively close to your deductible, and you can comfortably pay it yourself. Maybe you're worried about a rate increase. Maybe you'd simply prefer to avoid the hassle.
Contact your insurance company any time you're involved in a collision with another driver — even if damages seem minimal.
Whether or not you plan to file a claim, it's important to let your insurance company know about any collision you're involved in with another driver. There are two big reasons for this.
First, even if you don't file a claim, the other person might decide to sue for damages. If your insurance company hasn't been filled in on the details of the accident, it will be harder for them to represent you in that scenario.
The second reason to report a collision right away is that damages might be worse than they first appear. You may think your car (or the other driver's) is in pretty decent shape at first sight — but after a closer inspection, find out that expensive repairs will be necessary. If your insurance company wasn't informed about the accident in a timely manner, they might not be willing or able to pay out on your policy.
What's Next?
- What can I do to lower my rates? If your insurance rates have spiked because of an accident (or were simply high to begin with), you're probably looking for ways to bring costs back down. Check out these eight tips for finding the best value on your car insurance.
- Where can I find a good deal on car insurance? Along with rate-saving programs like accident forgiveness, your car insurance provider should offer plenty of discounts, personalized coverage, and strong customer service. Start your search with our review of the best cheap car insurance companies.


text: 50 Cent will be dropping The Kanan Tape exclusively on Datpiff this December 9th, but we have a little taste of music to hold us over. Featuring Sonny Digital, 50 Cent croons and weaves lyrically over some very dope production on "I'm The Man". It's a catch, head-nodder of a track that will definitely gain some positive buzz for the full release. Let us know what you think of the song in the comments below.


text:
Q: Ghost Stories features some of the your darkest compositions to date. Did you approach this album differently from the others?
A: Hi, firstly thanks for your kind words about the music, very kind if you. Each CD I do has a different theme, the last one, Welcome to the Horror Show, takes iconic horror subjects and creates a piece of music themed around it. For this one I wanted to write some music that deals with ghosts and the paranormal so each track is based on a theme or atmosphere related to ghosts. It's quite a dark album compared to the previous two, which was deliberate because of the theme. When I'm writing I usually start with a theme or title and I experiment with sounds 'til I get something close to the feeling I am going for.
Q: Choosing amongst your children is impossible, but do you have a favorite track on the album?
A: I would have to pick "Ghost Stories", it's one of the more complex tracks on the album, and I really liked the beats on it, there's a lot going on in the mix on that one.
|Limited Edition package
A: I grew up in a haunted house so have always been fascinated by ghosts. There was quite a lot of poltergeist activity and we had a black shadow person that would appear sometimes. Lots of people saw it. I took up ghost hunting for a couple of years back in 2008 and saw lots of strange things. The cover photo of ghost stories was taken on one of the ghost hunts.
Q: Towards the end of the Ghost Stories you thematically veer slightly into a carnival theme. Why do think carnivals with their jovial music sound downright menacing?
A: I always find them really creepy and atmospheric. Especially the travelling ones that pop up for a week then disappear. It's probably to do with Something Wicked This Way Comes, the Ray Bradbury novel and Disney movie which I loved. It was a big influence. Films like Clownhouse and The Funhouse too.
Q: Your music seems to be echo a love of horror movies from the 80s, especially with some of the more fun and energetic tracks like "Midnight Show". What are some of your major influences?
A: John carpenter for sure. I loved the soundtracks to Halloween III: Season of the Witch and The Fog. I really liked the 80s Italian horror sounds too, Fabio Frizzi and Goblin, for example. I wanted to bring some of that electronic style back with my music. I've been working with the guys at graveyard calling horror records who just put out a pumpkin orange cassette of the last album. They put out lots of great horror music on tapes which is great because of the 80s inspired sounds in some of the music.
|Sam Haynes
A: Yes, scaring is great fun, as any haunter will tell you. I have scared myself quite a few times writing the songs as I usually do it alone in the studio at night. The only thing in it for me really is to bring something a little different to the genre, remind people of how great the 70s and 80s horror music was and to contribute to the haunt/horror scene. It's something I wanted to do for a long time! I have been really suprised at the amount of people that enjoy the music. The haunt and horror community are great and they really support independent producers. Everyone I have met through the music have been great people and are hugely passionate about the genre. Last halloween I went to a theme park that were using the music as a soundtrack and it worked really well, that was a great moment for me. The idea of people walking though haunts on halloween night to one of these songs and getting scared is what keeps me making the music!
A big thank you to Sam Haynes!