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Airport Working Group of Orange County, Inc. v. Department of Defense
ELR Citation: 33 ELR 20082
Nos. No. 02-1220(ESH), 226 F. Supp. 2d 227/(D.D.C., 10/22/2002)
A court granted the government's transfer of venue motion in a case brought by aviation groups challenging the government's decision designating a Marine Corps air station in California for a park with mixed use development. The groups brought the case challenging the government's compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act and the Clean Air Act in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The government sought to transfer the case to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. The court first holds that it is beyond dispute that venue is proper in the central district because the claim involves disposal of surplus federal property that is located in the central district. Although deference is usually given to the plaintiff in determining whether a transfer of venue is justified, that deference is diminished where, as here, transfer is sought to plaintiffs' resident forum, plaintiffs have substantial ties to the forum and the subject matter of the lawsuit is connected to that state, and the choice of forum has no meaningful ties to the controversy and no particular interest in the parties or subject matter. Moreover, the issues raised by this lawsuit are of great concern to the residents of Orange County, and while the convenience of witnesses is likely to be of no relevance since this is a review of an administrative record, the location of the voluminous administrative record—estimated to be over 100,000 pages—in California is significant. Further, the interests of justice strongly mitigate in favor of transfer. The disposition and future use of the air station will have a profound effect on the local environment and the use of local resources. Therefore, the government's motion to transfer venue was granted.


text: Post-it® Super Sticky Cube holds stronger and lasts longer. It has 2x the sticking power of Post-it® Original Notes so you can be sure that your message gets through. Perfect for vertical and hard to stick to surfaces, these Ultra Yellow sticky-notes are ideal for making notes or leaving messages and reminders. They're super strong, super versatile and designed to make your messages stand out. Made with PEFC certified paper, sourced from certified, renewable and responsibly managed forests, with a 60 % renewable resource adhesive from a plant that regrows annually. These Ultra Yellow sticky notes are 76 mm x 76 mm and come in a pack of 1 cube of 350 sheets.

subset: commoncrawl


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Humans and horses
Based on the book 'I cavalli di Federico', written by the Italian ethologist Dr. Paolo Baragli
- #horsemanship
- #equine science
Horses have been beside us for more than 5,000 years but despite this, our affection towards this species is still somewhat turbulent. It seems that there is still some way to go to get to know each other better. The crucial point is that while horses are quite happy by themselves, running free through nature, mankind apparently simply cannot do without them close by.
Of course the start of this relationship must have been traumatic for the horse, given that our ancestors first considered it as a source of food. The passage of time however has witnessed, as we all know, a different evolution. The horse has become an indispensable means of transport, an irreplaceable source of energy, useful for work and has contributed decisively to the progress of humanity. It has enabled us to greatly increase our ability to move over land, both in peacetime and in war, giving us the ability to travel quickly. Can you imagine the Roman Empire without horses? What would it have conquered? At most the house courtyard ... And then, would Marco Polo's travels have been possible without horses? Give it some thought, would we now be in the age of the Internet and nanotechnology without these animals? Over time, the possible uses of the horse have evolved, have expanded and have been modified. The horse has acquired a dual status, remaining a source of food and a working animal. In Western society work has become the main role and the horse has become primarily an instrument of leisure and sport, giving rise to a veritable industry, becoming an important source of income for agriculture and for sport, and, last but not least, it has acquired importance as a therapeutic support for people with mental and/or motor impairment and as a co-educator.
Art lovers know that the horse is the animal most represented in the different artistic expressions. What about show business and film? In short, not only has the horse accompanied us throughout history but it can be found all around us, in a multiple series of situations and contexts that are unrivalled compared to other species, and that includes the dog ...
This wide variety of roles that the horse has assumed in our society has meant that the type of people who come into close contact and interact with it is extremely different. There are those who relate with the horse in their scope of work and that therefore develop with it a relationship linked to professional activities: horse riders, breeders, grooms, vets, farriers etc. while others instead experience horses from a purely emotional perspective, as if it were an actual family member. Others even experience the emotions that the horse is able to transmit through amateur sporting activities.
Each of these categories is related to a different kind of interaction. Horses create a relationship with people who are closest to them and who interact more with them. What is a relationship? In general a relationship is defined as a progressive link between two partners; for both, this relationship creates an expectation in terms of the responses from the other person. The relationship with the horse, however, is essentially different from what is established between people because it is a relationship between two different species, that is between individuals who have a perceptual world, a way of interacting with the environment and a different way of communicating with each other and, of course, each with equally different biological needs. Yet there is no doubt that we humans communicate with horses, given that we ride them, race them and take them with us ... But are we sure we are communicating in the right way? Do you ever find that your horse displays inexplicable behaviour or does something unusual? Something you are unable to explain? Have you considered that this may be caused by a lack of communication between you? The relationship with these beautiful animals that have given so much to our progress deserves the utmost respect and deep knowledge of the horse. Each of us should ask ourselves what can and should be done to improve this relationship starting from the ethological needs of the horse, including its learning mode, and seeking to understand their way of relating with the surrounding environment, an environment that we have created for them but that often does not correspond to their natural needs ...


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EPC Dudley Energy Performance Certificates ₤65.00 Fully inclusive with nothing more to pay
Avery Energy
Home Price List Book an EPC Sellers Landlords Contact Solicitors & Conveyancers
All residential lettings (Property rented out) require an EPC.
All properties for sale or SSTC (sold subject to contract) now require an EPC
We will undertake lettings EPCs in Dudley for Sellers, Letting Agents, Estate Agents, landlords, councils, housing associations and if required tenants or private individuals
All Dudley areas covered DY1, DY2, DY3
How much is an EPC in Dudley?
Any property up to 2 Bedrooms is £45.00
3 Bedrooms homes are £50.00
4 Bedrooms are £60.00
5 Bedrooms £70.00
All fully inclusive, with nothing more to pay.
Discounts may be possible if you need 5 or more EPCs on the same day in similar areas
Residential only.
More than 5 bedrooms? please send an email for a quotation
Dudley EPC Areas covered;
DY1 Dudley, Woodsetton, Bramford, Upper Gornal & Holly Hall
DY2 Dudley, Holly Hall, Netherton & Oakham
DY3 Dudley, Lower Gornal, Upper Gornal, Gornal Wood, Himley, Sedgley, Swindon & Woodsetton
Please call 07414 65 60 35
for more information
Energy Performance Certificates for Dudley DY1 EPC, Energy Performance Certificates Dudley DY2 EPC, Energy Performance Certificates Dudley DY3 EPC.


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Four title fights and one superfight will highlight an over-the-top 60th edition of Rumble at the Roseland on December 3rd.
In the welterweight title bout, Jason Novelli and Bill Denney will face off in a matchup of talented fan favorites. Denney recently made news outside the cage after he disarmed a man who had just robbed a hotel with a semiautomatic handgun and held him until police arrived. Novelli, who is making his second attempt at the welterweight crown, has beaten notable fighters like Nathan Orchards and Alex Jordan.
The big boys will get their chance to take center stage as well, as heavyweight champ Chris DeLaRocha looks to defend his belt against undefeated Dylan Clark. Aside from being the baddest man in his weight class, DeLaRocha is also known for knocking out Rico Martinez in just 30 seconds at Rumble 55.
In two more much-anticipated title fights, 125-pound champ David Converse will take on Jeff Alden, while Ryan Truitt and Will Hill will battle it out for the vacant lightweight championship belt. And just to add a little more excitement to the evening, Nathan Allen of Team Quest and Brysen French of Impact JJ will clash in a middleweight superfight.
Of course, anyone who has been to a Rumble at the Roseland event in the past knows that the best fight of the night could just as easily come from two first-timers who have never set foot in a cage before. That's the beauty of of Rumble at the Roseland. It's all about the pride and passion of first-timers getting past their fear and taking that first step into the cage; or sometimes it's all about the pure talent and commitment of an up-and-comer who is fighting for his chance at the big time. Either way, you'll find more heart and raw emotion at this event than any other around.
The Oregonsports.com crew will be on hand to capture all the action with a full photo gallery and event recap, so check in with us later that night for the skinny on all the ass-kickery. If you'd like to join us, get your tickets here.


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DCC Technology today confirmed its subsidiary, Exertis, has gobbled specialist storage and lesser known server distie Hammer for an undisclosed sum, which should help ease recent top line pressures.
Hammer trades with "almost" 1,000 reseller, system integrator and cloud service provider punters, selling infrastructure gear from vendors including Dell, Intel, NetApp, Seagate and Western Digital.
London Stock Exchange listed DCC Technology said it will use the buy to cross-sell the expanded portfolio of servers, storage, networking, security and UC kit to existing customers and the ones it is hoping to inherit.
Niall Ennis, DCC Technology managing director, claimed Hammer had carved a niche in enterprise services and "bespoke" stuff for vertical markets.
He said the buy fitted well with its relatively small existing server and enterprise lines and gave Hammer's traders "a platform for growth with a diverse and financially strong technology distribution company".
The deal also widens DCC's reach into mainland Europe, beefing up sales in France and the Benelux countries and giving it a foothold in Germany and Sweden.
Hammer employs 165 staff and in the year ended 31 January 2016 it turned over £154.7m compared to £133m in the prior financial year. It reported operating profit of £6.9m versus £5.29m.
By contrast, DCC Tech's fiscal '16 ended 31 March was less good; revenue dropped four per cent to £2.44bn caused by slumping tab and smartphone sales. Operating profit was squeezed, falling nearly 29 per cent due to Samsung cutting out distribution to sell direct to large retailers.
The Hammer buy is subject to approval from the European Commission but completion is expected for the end of 2016.
No channel press release would be complete without the use of the word "synergy" - this is the IT industry, one that is renowned for corporate bull shit - and Hammer boss James Ward shoe-horned it into a sentence.
"We see great synergy and opportunities for our customers, vendors and employees in joining Exertis. By leveraging the complementary strengths... blah, blah, blah," said Ward.
In truth, for both vendors, resellers, SIs and CSPs, distributor consolidation means one less source of supply, credit, and less bartering power.
But it'll mean DCC shareholders will get to see the right kind of top line movement, while the duplication of personnel in some departments no doubts means that costs can be trimmed to improve profits. ®


text: Presidio Foods Catering Share facebook twitter google+ email ADD TO iCal Google Calendar Page ContentThe Presidio Trust has partnered with James Beard award-winning chef Traci Des Jardins to offer catering for celebrations and meetings held in the park.Whether you're hosting a wedding or family get together, arranging a company meeting, or planning a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, Presidio Foods Catering will work with you to create a "perfect fit" menu that reflects your vision. Our ingredients are "farm to fork," and sourced from local growers with sustainable practices.Presidio Foods Catering is also able to support your complete event planning needs, including the rental of tables, chairs, linens, glassware, and china. We can also assist with floral arrangements, lighting, and entertainment.We look forward to helping you envision an amazing event. Learn more about celebration and meeting venues in the Presidio >>About Chef Traci Des JardinsA native of Northern California, Traci Des Jardins has six restaurants in San Francisco, including two at the Presidio, in partnership with the Presidio Trust: The Commissary and Arguello. The Commissary has been selected as one of the San Francisco Chronicle's Top 100 Restaurants in Northern California for two consecutive years. Her other award-winning restaurants include Jardinière, Mijita Cocina Mexicana, and Public House.Traci Des Jardins is a two-time James Beard award-winner and has earned a number of industry accolades. She sits on the board of La Cocina, a San Francisco based non-profit business incubator. She is a deeply committed activist and philanthropist working with hunger relief organizations such as Share Our Strength, Citymeals On-Wheels, and other non-profits such as amfAR.


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Jeju United Forward Jin Seonguk (C) fights for the ball with Urawa Reds Forward Kohrogi Shinzoh (R) during the AFC Champions League 2017 Round of 16 match between Jeju United FC (KOR) vs Urawa Red Diamonds (JPN) at the Jeju Sports Complex on 24 May 2017 in Jeju, South Korea. Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong / Power Sport Images
Copyright: © 2017 Power Sport Images. All rights reserved.


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The annual CRPC Gun Show will be held on Saturday & Sunday, January 30-31, 2021; 8am-5pm on Saturday, and 9am-3pm on Sunday.
You can find a flyer for the Gun Show on our "Links & Downloads" page!
The following information is subject to change!
Hours are
8:00 am – 5:00 pm on Saturday, January 30, 2021
9:00 am – 3:00 pm on Sunday, January 31, 2021
The show will be held at the CRPC Indoor Range, 2621 E. 7th Street, Cheyenne, WY.
There is a donation entry fee of $5.00 per person. Children under 12 are free. The entry fee is good for all day, but an entry fee must be paid for each day.
Exhibitors include retailers to individual exhibitors. Full 8-foot tables are $35.00. Checks must accompany reservations and any tables not claimed by 10:00 am on Saturday will be sold.
Send your reservations to:
Cheyenne Rifle & Pistol Club
PO Box 571
Cheyenne, WY 82003
Concession stand in the building with plenty of parking, however no camper hook-ups are available but there is space for self-contained units.
ABSOLUTELY NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES on CRPC property!
For additional information or questions contact Mike Christmann at (307) 640-0033 or via email at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Niente pellicce, 20 dicembre 2015, corteo no fur a Firenze; il foto-doc.
Related posts brought to you by YARPP.
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Classic steakhouses are getting some competition from casual spots like T-Bones, where dry-aged and prime steaks and seafood are served in an informal setting at surprisingly affordable prices. What also makes this unassuming place stand out is the quality of its accompaniments, such as lobster bisque and housemade steak sauces prepared in a from-scratch kitchen headed by former SaltWater chef Justin Schneider. You won't find any linen-covered tables or hovering sommeliers here, but then again, you won't miss them. 23018 Greater Mack, St. Clair Shores; 586-776-0062. L & D daily $22 H
The menu is short and sweet: just 10 mostly nontraditional pizzas on excellent, chewy crust, and a list of ingredients for those who prefer to build their own pie. Plus there are fresh salads from locally grown greens, pots of chili, and cheese plates and sausage to accompany the house-brewed beers and a few wines from northern Michigan. That's it — and it's really plenty at this friendly, unpretentious Midtown spot. The deck, with its market umbrellas and beer barrel planters, is a pleasant place to sit when weather permits. 470 W. Canfield, Detroit; 313-832-2700. L & D daily $10 H


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HistoryPoints News
80 years since Inland Revenue evacuated
The Imperial Hotel, Llandudno, was a hive of activity at the end of February 1940 as 200 Inland Revenue workers arrived and began preparations for thousands of colleagues to evacuate from London. Now visitors and local residents can use their mobiles to scan HistoryPoints QR codes at ...
the hotel to discover the remarkable story of how Britain's tax-collecting operation - vital to the war effort - was managed from Llandudno for the rest of the Second World War, with civil servants and their families occupying more than 400 buildings in the seaside resort. The information, and more of the hotel's history, is also available here


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Flexi Plexi!
Fantastic pedal. Built like a tank. The switch delivers a very satisfying feeling when stepped on. The sound is amazing. Exactly what you would expect from an overdriven amp, but at any volume level. The sound is very responsive to the volume setting of your guitar and picking dynamics. What a killer pedal!
Muncie, In.


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007 Doubles: The real-life people behind the James Bond Characters
IT'S the most famous and longrunning film franchise of all time. Now, exactly 50 years after the first James Bond film, Dr No, was released in 1962, it's time for number 23. Skyfall, starring Daniel Craig, opens in cinemas across the UK next week.
Bond's creator, author Ian Fleming, worked in British Naval Intelligence in the Second World War and based his characters - including his villains - on real-life people.
But who exactly were the models for the likes of Miss Moneypenny, M, Q and 007 himself?
Fleming got the name for his most famous character from a book called Field Guide To The Birds Of The West Indies by ornithologist James Bond which was on the shelf in his study when he sat down to write his first spy novel. He got the 007 code number from the German diplomatic code 0070, which was cracked by British Intelligence in the First World War.
However, the basis for Bond has been much disputed over the years. A new biography claims the inspiration was Wing Commander Forest "Tommy" Yeo-Thomas, one of the greatest spies of the Second World War whose code name was The White Rabbit. Yeo-Thomas was parachuted into occupied France three times but was captured by the Gestapo and tortured.
I belong to a secret order which has representatives all over the world
He was sent to the Buchenwald concentration camp but escaped.
In her research, author Sophie Jackson discovered a link between The White Rabbit and Fleming: a memo from 1945 in which the author, who worked for British Intelligence during the war, briefs colleagues on Yeo-Thomas and his escape from the Nazis. "It shows Fleming was interested in the case of Yeo-Thomas and had been following it," Jackson says.
Jackson claims that Yeo-Thomas had the same attitude towards women as Bond and that some of the 007 storylines are based on actual events involving Yeo-Thomas. He once found himself on a train behind enemy lines in France sitting next to the head of the local Gestapo, the notorious Klaus Barbie. The British agent started talking to Barbie in French and pretended that he was a supporter of the Nazi occupation. Barbie did not recognise him and The White Rabbit escaped.
The story, Jackson points out, is similar to the scene in Fleming's From Russia With Love, in which Bond has lunch with an enemy agent on a train who pretends to be an ally.
It has also been claimed that Bond was based, at least partly, on real-life spy Sidney Reilly whose incredible story was told in the 1983 TV series Reilly, Ace Of Spies. He was a Russian Jew who spied for British Intelligence and was shot by the Bolsheviks in the Soviet Union in 1925.
"Like Fleming's fictional creation Reilly was multilingual with a fascination for the Far East, fond of fine living and a compulsive gambler," says his biographer Andrew Cook. "He also exercised a Bond-like fascination for women. His many love affairs stand comparison with 007's."
In 1953 Fleming told a colleague he had created Bond after reading about Reilly's exploits in the archives of the British Intelligence Services.
And we mustn't forget Fleming himself as a model for Bond. Like his great creation he worked in espionage, was a ladies' man and a heavy smoker. "Bond gave at least fictional form to Ian's frustrated urge to have been… a full-time secret agent rather than a competent staff officer sitting office-politicking and dreaming in Room 39 of the Admiralty," says Fleming's biographer Andrew Lycett.
Several names have been put forward as the likely model for the secretary with whom Bond loves to flirt and who was played by Samantha Bond four times. Victoire Ridsdale was an assistant in the directorate of Naval Intelligence in the Second World War - the only woman working for seven male officers, one of whom was Fleming.
She recalled him coming back from a mission with silk stockings and scent as presents for his lady friends but she resisted the temptation to be one of his many girlfriends.
Joan Bright Astley ran the Secret Intelligence Committee for Winston Churchill during the war. She dated Fleming and said later: "I thought he was awfully attractive and fun but elusive. I think he was a ruthless man. He would drop somebody if he didn't want them any more."
Fleming's secretary when he worked for a Sunday newspaper was Una Trueblood. She remembers him as a "kind and generous" boss. He named one of his characters in Dr No Mary Trueblood after her and apologised to his secretary when the character was killed off. He would also inscribe first editions for her, putting in one: "To Una, who wrote all the books."
It is claimed that the fictional head of MI6 was based on Admiral John Henry Gregory, the director of Naval Intelligence whom Fleming worked under during the war. Gregory, who had a lifetime of distinguished service, was not too pleased, saying after Fleming's death: "He turned me into that unsavoury character M." Another possible model was William Melville, the head of Britain's Secret Service Bureau, the forerunner of MI5 and MI6. Melville was known in government circles as M and once recruited Bond inspiration Sidney Reilly to be a Special Branch informer.
MI6's gadget master (played by Desmond Llewelyn until 1999) was based on Charles Fraser-Smith, a wartime contact of Fleming's. Offi-cially, Fraser-Smith was just a temporary civil servant working at the Ministry of Supply during the Second World War but as historian Andrew Cook writes, his job was of great importance: "In reality Fraser-Smith provided the intelligence services with a range of fascinating and ingenious gadgets such as compasses hidden inside golf balls and shoelaces that concealed saw blades."
with a range of fascinating and ingenious gadgets such as compasses hidden inside golf balls and shoelaces that concealed saw blades."
Auric Goldfinger, the gold-obsessed megalomaniac, was named after Erno Goldfinger, a Hungarian-Jewish architect who moved to London during the Thirties. He became GOLDFINGER Auric Goldfinger, the gold-obsessed megalomaniac, was named after Erno Goldfinger, a Hungarian-Jewish architect who moved to London during the Thirties. He became famous for designing tower blocks and he crossed Fleming's path when the Bond author objected to the architect knocking down cottages in Hampstead to build a modern house.
famous for designing tower blocks and he crossed Fleming's path when the Bond author objected to the architect knocking down cottages in Hampstead to build a modern house.
When Goldfinger heard of his name being used in Fleming's book, he threatened legal action. A business associate, who had read Goldfinger, said to him that he could only find one difference between the character in the book and in real life: "You're called Erno and he's called Auric."
being used in Fleming's book, he threatened legal action. A business associate, who had read Goldfinger, said to him that he could only find one difference between the character in the book and in real life: "You're called Erno and he's called Auric."
But another model suggested for Goldfinger was the American mining and minerals magnate Charles W Engelhard Jnr, who had substantial business interests in South Africa, South America and Europe. He was also a successful racehorse owner, and owned Nijinksy, one of the greatest flat-racing horses of all time.
Unlike Erno Goldfinger, it is said that Engelhard delighted in being suggested as the model for the character in the film.
Addicted to Coca-Cola, Engelhard died in 1971, aged just 54.
The villain in the first Bond novel, Casino Royale, (the film heralded Daniel Craig's debut as 007 and featured Mads Mikkelsen as Le Chiffre) was based on the British occultist, mystic and magician Aleister Crowley. Once labelled "the worst man in the world" Crowley was a habitual drug user who wrote the novel Diary Of A Drug Fiend. He was accused of practising black magic but wrote: "I belong to a secret order which has representatives all over the world. We are all working for the good of humanity, not for its downfall."
It is claimed that Fleming's and Crowley's paths crossed in the Second World War when the future 007 author and his colleagues proposed a bizarre plot in which Crowley would supply leading Nazi Rudolf Hess, who had a keen interest in astrology, with faked horoscopes.
The villain in three Bond novels and six films - the white cat-stroking Ernst Stavro Blofeld, head of SPECTRE - is said to be have been named after Tom Blofeld, a Norfolk farmer who had been a contemporary of Ian Fleming's at Eton, and was later a fellow member of Fleming's London club, Boodle's.
The real Blofeld was also the father of Daily Express cricket correspondent and BBC Radio Test Match Special commentator Henry Blofeld.
He says: "It was a direct crib although none of my family ever owned a white pussy, let alone stroked one."


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This month's edition of On Track, the podcast series from the School of Communication, Writing and the Arts, discusses the Student Salon with students Kimber Starnes and Bryan Starry.
The two artists discuss their work on display at the Gordon Parks Gallery in the Library and Learning Center, Saint Paul Campus, as well as their individual journey as artists, and how they've gotten their art sold via the Metro State Art Buy.
On Track informs the larger university community and the public about programs, events, activities, and research in the School of Communication, Writing and the Arts.
The podcast can be streamed on both iTunes and Spreaker. We encourage you to give us a listen and to subscribe to the podcast.


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With a little over 200 days until Disney hosts its annual Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, training time is in full swing. Let Global Resort Homes take care of where you stay this year and let your focus stay on the pavement.
We all know that a marathon is more than just a run. A marathon represents dedication, health, time and support from your favorite friends and family. Global has the perfect size vacation homes to house you and your guests so they are sure to be there as you cross the finish line. From 2 bedroom condos in Windsor Palms to 9 bedroom homes in Reunion, you are sure to find your perfect fit. The size of these homes provide plenty of space so you can stay focused as you make your 1st place plans. The access to the gym clubhouses right in the resort communities are also great for any last minute training.
We also know that nutrition is one of the most important parts of staying on a healthy track. All of Globals vacation homes come with beautiful kitchens so you can carb load the night before the race. These kitchens are also perfect for pre-run and post-run meals to make sure you're in the best place you can be. Ditch the pre-made meals and cook in your very own kitchen. Post-marathon health is just as important as preparation. Luckily, Globals vacation homes come with beautiful pools and spas so you can recover the right way!
Global Resort Homes are also unparalleled in location. With properties just miles from the start and finish line, you'll be able to relax and stay determined in your stress free vacation home. Staying with Global is truly the only way to go as you prepare and recover from one of the best events that Disney has to offer. Head over to GlobalResortHomes.com or call an agent at (888) 426-0472 to book your home today.


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Hooray!! A celebration.
No, I didn't get an agent or a book deal, but I DID finish my semester of school yesterday. That's definitely cause for celebration!
I even managed to pass all my classes . . . I think I may have even passed all of them with an "A."
I now have two weeks of break before I go back for the spring semester. Unfortunately, I'm taking four classes (full time) next semester and I'm worried about how I'll manage to do it with everything else I have going on. *sigh*
I even managed to get some Christmas shopping done today . . . yeah, nothing like waiting until the last minute. We still haven't decorated, but that will happen on Saturday.
Seriously, this Christmas really snuck up on me! Now I'm scrambling to get everything done in time. CRAZY!
One more thing before I go. There is still time to enter the contest for a chance to read an ARC of THE TIMEKEEPER'S MOON by Joni Sensel (the sequel to THE FARWALKER'S QUEST).
Celebrate on!


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Product Description
Made in Germany with exquisite craftsmanship, Thater Brushes are known as some of the best in the world. We directly import these brushes from Germany, and are an authorized H. L. Thater dealer.
Fan style knot – Silvertip 2-band
Model: 4125/4, Black Resin Handle
Hair type: Silvertip, 2-band
Knot Diameter: 30mm
Loft: 58mm
Weight: 3.5 oz
Give that new brush a proper home, check out our selection of brush and razor stands here.


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Food cooking or reheating instructions
Food cooking or reheating instructions allow consumers to heat a pre-prepared food product so that it is both microbiologically safe and offers optimum sensory quality. Developing instructions that allow this is not straightforward. But Campden BRI has a wealth of experience and knowledge for both microwave and conventionally heated product that might be configured and packaged in many different ways. Amongst the equipment and services available are:
Microwave heating:
- Over 50 ovens with power ratings from 450 to 2000W
- Fibre optic thermometry for continuous temperature measurement
- Thermal imaging for locating hot and cold spots
- Off-site calibration service against IEC 60705:2015
Conventional heating:
- Commercial and domestic gas, electric and fan-assisted ovens
- Commercial and domestic gas and electric hobs and grills
- Deep-fat fryers and steamers
- Thermocouple temperature profiling
- Off-site calibration for ovens, grills and hobs
In addition, we offer consultancy and advice on packaging and on product formulation and development.
If you would like further information or prices please email us at firstname.lastname@example.com or call our switchboard on +44(0)1386 842000 and they will be happy to direct your call to the relevant person.
Where we refer to UKAS Accreditation
The Campden BRI group companies listed below are both accredited in accordance with the recognised International Standard ISO17025:2017 by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS). The accreditation demonstrates technical competence for a defined scope of methods, specific to each site, as detailed in the schedules of accreditation bearing the testing laboratory number. The schedules may be revised from time to time and reissued by UKAS. The most recent issue of the schedules are available from the UKAS website www.ukas.com
Campden BRI (Chipping Campden) Limited is a UKAS accredited testing laboratory No. 1079 Campden BRI (Nutfield) is a UKAS accredited testing laboratory No. 1207


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- Dec 2008
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2004 Civic Hybrid IMA Light - Car Won't Start - ABS/Braking Light
I have a 2004 Honda Civic Hybrid Automatic with 132,000 Miles on it.
Yesterday morning my IMA Light came on out of no where. I drove it to work, just a mile down the road, and it was fine.
Then yesterday afternoon I started it, and my IMA, ABS, and Braking, Lights all came on. Braking felt different - stiffer.
This morning, the car would start at all - it just clicked repeatedly, and flashed all of the lights on the Gage Face.
Does this mean I need a new 12-V battery, or new IMA?
Please help, Thanks!


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The University of Western Australia
This policy defines the nature and purpose of probation for academic staff and sets out eligibility, timeframes and responsibilities of the academic staff member, the supervisor and Dean and outlines the role of the Academic Promotions Committee throughout the probation process.
Purpose of Probation
Responsibility of the Employee
General Conditions
Responsibility of the Supervisor
Responsibility of the Dean
Commencing PDA
Role of the Senior Deputy Vice
Performance Development and
Role of the Academic Promotions
Academic Portfolios
Probation Periods
Criteria for Confirmation
Periods of Extended Leave
When Performance Standards are
The Impact of Probation on
not being met
Review of Recommendation to Annul
This policy is to be read in conjunction with Academic staff probation.
The purpose of the probation period is to establish whether there is an appropriate match between the person, the job, and the work environment. The desired outcome of a probation period is that employment will be confirmed under the terms of the employment contract. The probation period also provides the employee, in conjunction with his or her supervisor, the opportunity to address any issues relating to performance that may act as a barrier to the successful completion of the probationary period. At all stages of the probation period the employee must have the opportunity to remedy any work conduct deficiencies and should be provided with development, coaching and counselling by their supervisor.
1.1 Staff employed on either fixed term or ongoing (tenurable) appointments are subject to probationary periods - refer to Terms of academic probationary periods.
1.1.1 Employees in ongoing (tenurable) positions must submit an academic portfolio annually until the end of the probationary period. For all academic levels (other than Level A) the probationary period is typically three years. Level A probationary period is five years.
1.1.2 The probationary period for academics employed in fixed term positions is three to six months, and the submission of the academic portfolio is not required.
1.2 Probation does not apply to casual appointments.
1.3 The academic probationary period will include documented evidence that there has been management of the staff member's performance.
1.4 Performance assessment during the probationary period will include consideration of achievement relative to opportunity and will require appropriate evaluation of achievements in relation to:
1.5 Before the end of the probation period, a decision must be made as to whether the employment should be confirmed as specified in the employment contract, extended or (in the event that the employee cannot meet the probation criteria) annulled.
Throughout the probationary period the staff member is to be provided with regular feedback on their performance. The regularity of such feedback will largely depend on the needs of the individual staff member.
Successful induction and participation in the Commencement Performance Development Appraisal (CPDA) is important to the successful development of a career in the University.
2.1 Commencing the probation period - Induction
Within one month of commencement, the supervisor will provide an induction to the work area. Guidance for supervisors can be found on the University's Induction Website. The supervisor will:
During the CPDA new staff members should be provided with probation criteria and details of performance expectations during the probation period.
2.2 Commencing Performance Development Appraisal (CPDA)
Within two months of commencement a CPDA is to be completed. Induction and participation in the CPDA is important to the successful development of a career in the University. During the CPDA new staff members should be provided with probation criteria and details of performance expectations and timeframes during the probation period. Guidelines are provided within the CPDA Procedures. The supervisor will:
2.3 Performance Development and Appraisal (PDA)
The PDA is to be conducted annually during the probationary period and beyond.
The expectations of both the employee and the University must be reflected in the PDA and will normally be:
2.4 Academic Portfolios
2.4.1 The staff member will submit an Academic Portfolio annually through the Head of School to the Dean. Failure to comply with this employment condition may result in extension of probation or the annulment of the appointment.
188.8.131.52 The due dates for submitting the Academic Portfolio will be on the anniversary of commencement for all but the final report; and
220.127.116.11 Submission of the final report is to be no less than four months before the end of the probation period.
2.4.2 Failure to comply with submission dates of Academic Portfolios may result in extension of probation or the annulment of an appointment - refer to Procedures for late submission of academic portfolios.
2.5 Probation Periods
2.5.1 Academic Staff Appointed to Ongoing (Tenurable) Positions
Probation periods are determined by the term of appointment and the academic level of the employee. Refer to Terms of academic probationary periods.
2.5.2 Fixed-term Staff On Second Or Subsequent Contracts
18.104.22.168 Any second or subsequent fixed-term contract may contain a probationary period where the second or subsequent fixed-term contract is for a position where the duties are substantially difference.
188.8.131.52 When an academic staff member who has held fixed-term appointments secures an ongoing (tenurable) appointment, the relevant probation period for ongoing (tenurable) appointments will normally apply. On recommendation of the Dean the probation period may be shortened having regard for any probation period served when employed on a fixed term basis.
2.6 Periods of Extended Leave
If a probationary academic takes periods of extended leave of greater than three months (such as parental leave or leave without pay), the probationary period may be extended by an equivalent period. The period of extension will be determined by the progress of the academic towards satisfying the probation requirements, the length of absence, and the level.
2.6.1 Other than in the case of late submission of the academic portfolio, the probation of Level A academics will only be extended in exceptional circumstances.
2.7 The Impact of Academic Promotion on Probation
2.7.1 When an employee who occupies an ongoing (tenurable) appointment subject to probation is successful in attaining a promotion prior to the expiry of the probation period, the appointment will be converted to ongoing (tenured) from the date of promotion.
2.7.2 When an employee who occupies a fixed term contract is successful in attaining a promotion before the expiry of the probation period or before the end of the appointment, the new appointment is not normally converted to ongoing but the Dean may make such a recommendation. Regard will need to be given to the reason for an employee being on a fixed term contract (E.g. external funding) which could result in a position not being eligible for ongoing status. This does not affect the academic staff member's eligibility to apply for promotion.
All probationary employees are required to undertake a Commencing PDA within two months of commencing, followed by an annual Performance Development and Appraisal (PDA) as part of the University's performance management process. The review of an employee's progress during the probation period is managed through this process. Employees have a responsibility to take all reasonable actions to ensure that performance objectives are met and whenever difficulties are encountered they should seek early guidance and support from their supervisors. There are requirements for formal annual meetings, but the performance management process should be ongoing with regular feedback to the employee.
3.1 The employee's responsibilities are to:
3.2 Employees should refer to:
4.1 The supervisor is commonly the Head of School, but the role may be delegated by the Dean to another senior academic. An employee may request the nomination of an alternative supervisor and such requests may be approved by the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The role of the supervisor is critical in the induction of a new staff member. Guidance for supervisors can be found at the University's Induction website.
4.2 Within the first month of commencement the supervisor is expected to conduct an induction to the Work Area.
4.3 Within two months of commencement a CPDA is to be conducted.
4.4 Throughout the probationary period, the supervisor must provide the employee with adequate opportunity to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the performance expectations of their role. The supervisor must also provide regular feedback on progress against objectives, provide coaching and counselling where necessary. If any problems become apparent, these should be discussed when the incident arises and documented (refer Part 9 of this Policy).
The probationary period is a time of ongoing assessment. If issues arise at any stage during the period they must be addressed as soon as possible. Performance management is not something which only occurs on the occasion of the annual review. When assessing performance, consideration needs to be given to the opportunities of the employee to accrue merit, and assessment should focus on quality and achievement.
4.5 The supervisor considers the Academic Portfolio and is required to prepare and submit a Supervisor's Annual Report to the Dean.
4.6 Prior to the finalisation of each annual Supervisor's Report, the Head of School must meet with each probationary employee to enable the employee to respond to the Report and to collaborate on the development of an action plan.
4.7 If it appears that the criteria are not being met at any stage and annulment of appointment is considered, the Head of School must seek advice from Employee Relations & Management Services, Human Resources before following the procedure specified in Clause 9 of this policy.
4.8 The Head of School will make a recommendation to the Dean as to whether ongoing employment status be confirmed, probation extended or appointment annulled (noting that only the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor can annul the appointment).
5.1 The Dean's role in the academic probation process is to review the Academic Portfolio and Supervisor's Annual Report.
5.1.1 Annual Reports (other than final reports)
The Dean has the authority to accept all satisfactory annual reports (other than the final report) and forward the Academic Portfolio and Report to Human Resources. In cases of outstanding performance where there is a recommendation to shorten the probationary period, the Dean will forward the documentation and recommendation to the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor.
Adverse annual reports are to be forwarded to the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor with the Dean's recommendation, which may include a recommendation to extend the probationary period or, in exceptional circumstances, annul the appointment during the probationary period.
5.1.2 Final Reports
The Dean will forward the documentation and final Report to the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, recommending-
6.1 During the probationary period the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor will receive any adverse Supervisor's Annual Reports, together with supporting documentation and the Dean's recommendation.
6.2 The Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor has the responsibility to approve, extend or annul the appointment of a probationary academic employee. The Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor will receive the recommendation of the Dean. All cases where there is a report finding academic performance standards (i.e. teaching and research) are not being met will be referred to the Academic Promotions Committee for an assessment of the case. Where an adverse report relates to behaviour or conduct issues, the case may be determined by the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor.
6.3 The Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor will inform Senate of the outcomes of tenure applications for all academic staff Levels A - E.
7.1 The Academic Promotions Committee will provide advice to the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor on the academic merit of cases where performance standards are not being met during the probationary period.
7.2 The full Academic Promotions Committee is established to review cases where progress during probation has been unsatisfactory, or where for various reasons, it is proposed that probation be extended. The full Committee comprises:
with the addition of :
8.1 The criteria for confirmation of appointment are the same as those for selection for academic positions and are set out in the Minimum Standards for Academic Levels which can be found at Selection Criteria for Academic Positions.
9.1 Human Resources (Employee Relations and Management Services - ERMS) should be consulted as early as possible in cases where performance issues are identified during a probationary period.
9.2 The procedures specified in the University's Academic Staff Agreement for dealing with unsatisfactory performance do not apply to probationary employees.
9.3 Where, at any stage of the probationary period, the Supervisor identifies a performance concern, the Head should undertake an appraisal of the employee's performance. If the assessment concludes that the employee's performance or conduct requires improvement, and/or there is a concern for their suitability for the role, the Supervisor will forward the assessment to the Dean, accompanied with recommendations to address the performance issues.
9.4 If the concerns relate to collegiality issues; that is, issues with conduct or fit with the school, the Dean must consult Human Resources. He or she will then make recommendations to address the concerns (in which case 9.6 to 9.8 below do not apply).
9.5 If the concerns relate to the teaching or research criteria; that is, the work performance of the academic, the Dean will refer to the Academic Promotions Committee with his or her recommendations.
9.6 The Academic Promotions Committee will assess the academic merits of the case and will review the recommended course of action to raise performance to a satisfactory level.
9.7 If the performance issue relates to the penultimate or final probation report, the Academic Promotions Committee will determine a timeframe necessary for the probationary employee to be given adequate opportunity to address the performance concerns. This may involve setting a revised date for the final probation report, on which the decision regarding the annulment of the appointment will be made. Such a date will be no later than three months prior to the end of the probationary period, to allow for notice of annulment to be given no later than two months prior to the end of the probationary period.
9.8 The supervisor will then advise the employee and the Committee, in writing, as follows:
9.9 The employee must have an opportunity to remedy the work conduct deficiencies and should be provided with development, coaching and counselling by the supervisor or the relevant persons, where appropriate.
9.10 At the end of the review period the Supervisor or relevant delegated authority shall recommend that either:
9.10.1 the employee's employment continue, subject to continued satisfactory performance during the probationary period;
9.10.2 the probationary period be extended for a further period in which to monitor the employee's performance in accordance with 9.8; or
9.10.3 the employee's appointment be annulled.
9.11 If the Supervisor is recommending that annulment should occur, the Supervisor will advise the employee of this recommendation in writing. The Supervisor should ensure advice had been sought from Human Resources prior to taking this step. The employee will have the opportunity to respond to the Supervisor within 10 working days.
9.12 After the response has been received, the Supervisor will forward the recommendation with all relevant documentation Dean of the Faculty.
9.13 The employee should be made aware of the Dean's recommendation and have the opportunity to respond to the Dean's recommendation within five days. The Dean may refer back to the Head for further action or information and/or endorse the recommendation and refer to the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor.
9.14 The Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor will seek advice on the recommendation to annul the appointment to the Academic Promotions Committee.
10.1 In reviewing a recommendation to extend or annul an appointment the following factors will be considered:
10.1.1 Whether the appointee was reasonably aware of the job/conduct requirements;
10.1.2 Whether the appointee had received adequate supervision and coaching for the expected standard of performance;
10.1.3 Progress made against performance objectives or standards required;
10.1.4 Whether there is an appropriate match between person, job and workplace; and
10.1.5 Whether the procedures outlined in this policy have been applied.
10.2 The Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor will review all documentation and will seek guidance from the Academic Promotions Committee for an assessment of the academic merits. The Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor may then determine that:
10.2.1 the appointment be annulled; or
10.2.2 the probationary period be extended; or
10.2.3 the appointment continue, subject to continued satisfactory performance during the probationary period; or
10.2.4 the recommendation to annul the appointment is not substantiated.
10.3 Where there is a case of misconduct, dereliction of duty or irretrievable breakdown of working relationship an appointment may be annulled before the end of the probationary period. Schedule D of the Academic Staff Agreement outlines the process to be followed in circumstances of misconduct or dereliction of duty. The Director, Human Resources or the Deputy Director, Human Resources should be contacted if this is proposed.
Members of the ERMS team in Human Resources are available to provide advice in relation to this policy.
Application for Academic Promotion: Comments by Head of School and Dean
TRIM File No:
Contact position:
Related Policies or legislation:
Achievement Relative to Opportunity Policy
Performance Development and Appraisal Policy
Guidelines for the Preparation of the Academic Portfolio
Timeframes for Submission of the Academic Portfolio


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5:39pm PT by Carolyn Giardina
'Apes' Director Matt Reeves on Why He Insisted on Creating a 'Caeser-centric' Film (Photos)
One day on the set of Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, director Matt Reeves was blocking a scene with a few of the actors, including Andy Serkis, who plays the movie's simian hero Caesar. "It was an emotional scene, and all we were doing was talking about it," says the director. "I turned to Andy, and he has tears streaming down his face. It took my breath away, because I realized he was already in the scene emotionally."
Reeves admits the powerful, emotive performance that Serkis gave as the lead ape in 2011's Rise of the Planet of the Apes is what attracted him to the sequel and why he felt Dawn, which opens today and appears to be on track to gross $65 million or more during its debut weekend, "needed to be built around Andy."
The Cloverfield director's journey with Apes started in early fall of 2012 when he was contacted by producers Dylan Clark and Peter Chernin. "They had been working with various writers and Rupert Wyatt (who directed the 2011 Apes reboot of 1968's Planet of the Apes), and they reached some kind of impasse where Rupert had decided it wasn't going in the direction that he wanted," Reeves says. "So they contacted me and asked, 'Would you like to come in?' I was such a fan of what they had done on the first film — I thought, 'I don't know.'
PHOTOS 'Dawn of the Planet of the Apes' San Francisco Premiere
"They were in an interim space where they had moved away from what Rupert was doing," he continues. "But the thing that I had fallen in love with in the first movie was Caesar's story and the emotional identification with his character. [Also], at the end of the first film, you saw how the beginning of intelligence entered into the apes' world and the very beginning of the virtual apocalypse. And that would take us to the original film — it becomes the planet of the apes. With the outline they presented to me, I felt they had taken too far a leap and the story was not entirely Caesar-centric. So I said, 'I love the franchise and I think this will be a great movie. It's just not the movie I would do.' "
But the meeting didn't end there. Instead, Reeves was asked what he would do. His answer was an "Ape-world creation" film. "What if the beginning of this film was an Earth that seemed to have no humans on it, and what if it was the beginning of the apes' tribal development? What if you could be in the apes' world for a good 15 minutes, see what Caesar had created, and then realize all the humans are not gone — raising the question of can there be co-existence?
"This is the time where it could have become something other than the planet of the apes. It could have been the planet of the humans and the apes," Reeves explains. "Caesar had a human father and is caught in the middle. He has the empathy for both sides to try to find a way to have a better world than the one in the 1968 film. So why didn't it end up that way? What went wrong?"
PHOTOS Hollywood's 100 Favorite Films
To Reeves' "shock," he says, the producers agreed to let him do the film his way. "The catch was they still wanted to meet the release date," he adds, noting that that was originally Memorial Day weekend. But once production began, he got some extra time when the studio decided to switch its opening day with that of X-Men Days of Futures Past.
Mark Bomback had already been hired to write the next draft, based on the original outline, and Reeves and Bomback got right to work. "We had a draft by Christmas. We entered prepro and were shooting by March."
To make Dawn, the producers again turned to Peter Jackson's VFX house, Weta Digital, in Wellington, NZ. Just as on The Lord of the Rings and Wyatt's Apes film, the Weta artists and Serkis made a powerful team. "The core to the character comes from the facial expressions, the emotional commitment of the actor," Reeves said. "What you have there is a genius of an actor. With Weta, their genius is in their artistry. It's not a simple thing to take a performance and turn it into an ape."
"There was a fair amount of new software development," explains Joe Letteri, senior VFX supervisor at Weta. "Fur was a big one. We had a pretty good way to groom the fur last time, but it didn't have much interaction with rain, contact in fighting. We wrote new software to handle the fur dynamics. Because we had large crowds of apes, we also wrote a new renderer to deal with the global illumination [the way that light gets into a CG shot without coming directly from a light source] in a more robust way." Weta had developed an earlier version of the software for Avatar.
PHOTOS 35 of 2014's Most Anticipated Movies
This development and skillful artistry is evident in the scene where the apes go to the humans for the first time. Says Letteri: "We had about 1,200 apes in an outdoor environment. You really see the global illumination. The detail in the fur effects might be more visible in the close-ups, such as in the early part of the film where viewers see the apes' community as they bond and talk about their issues."
Reeves also wanted to push the filmmaking techniques. "I wanted to take the level of photo reality to a higher level of excellence. A lot of the first film was shot on a stage. But we shot about 85 percent of Dawn on location [around Vancouver and New Orleans]," he relates. "I wanted it to be in the jungle; I wanted real weather with real natural light." (Serkis describes the shoot in an interview with THR here).
PHOTOS 19 Sequels That Outgrossed the Original Movies
"We did a little bit on location [in Rise], but it was in a park, so it wasn't that different from being on set," Letteri adds. "But on this one, especially for the opening with the rain and mud, we had to re-engineer all the equipment with new microprocessors for the sensors, wireless systems for the cameras and ways to transport the systems and use them in the rain.
"To me, it's the kind of thing that happened when cameras and film stock became light enough and fast enough for studios to start shooting a lot of location work — where you're able to just go wherever the director wants to go to tell the story."
Adding to the complexity, Reeves says that since the studio wanted a 3D version, they decided to shoot in stereo rather than do a conversion. "Weta suggested that if we wanted to shoot in the woods, the detail in the trees wouldn't be as effective or realistic [using conversion] as native 3D. I sentenced us to the worst possible shoot — mocap cameras and 3D rigs [Arri Alexas with 3Ality Technica rigs]. This equipment was so heavy; we used crane arms unless we were on a dolly — and that was hard to do on a hillside in the rain and mud. But I felt it would take the level of reality and increase it."
While Reeves agreed to do a 3D version of Dawn, he admitted he didn't want the "traditional CG tentpole aesthetic," but his view on 3D changed after watching Life of Pi. "I had wondered if you can do soft, shallow focus in 3D. [After viewing Pi], I thought, 'Not only is it not going to be a problem, it's going to be beautiful.' "
LIST The Hollywood Reporter Reveals Hollywood's 100 Favorite Films
For some shots, though, it was still unrealistic to attempt to shoot them as live action. For instance, Letteri reveals that the portion of the film's climatic battle that takes place in a skyscraper is a sequence that is fully CG.
Asked about the third film in the franchise, Reeves admits: "I have ideas. … People have asked me 'does it spoil the story because [the viewer] knows the ending?' But there are other stories where you already know what happened, and the question is how did it get there? Those stories are always more psychological — about story and character."
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Twitter: @CGinLA
Carolyn firstname.lastname@example.com @thr


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Some of you guys requested more butt stuff, lately, and I really felt like going for a full anal experience on a long video. I definitely enjoyed myself on this one, even though I'm usually not into booty action. It is not scripted and has no dialogue, because I wanted to keep it as simple and as natural as possible (as if I was shyly recording myself for my bf) –
I just show off in a girly pink light with my leather and Bluebella lingerie, until I get to spank my bubble butt with a silicon paddle. Then I play with a small buttplug, then a slim black toy, and eventually climax for you riding my dildo. Lots of close-ups were added, so you can enjoy the sight to its fullest. Enjoy the lube, apple red cheeks, and cute softcore. ♥♥
Thank you for your support, everyone ! ♥
Get it on Pornhub ! Get it on Manyvids !


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Robert McKee's WORKS / DOESN'T WORK Film Review:
Lady MacBeth (2017) | Directed by William Oldroyd
McKee Says: It Works (Spoiler Alert!)
A Study in the Power of Counterpoint
From its screenplay through its casting and on out to its camera work, this bare-knuckled psycho-thriller employs compelling counterpoint techniques to sharpen both meaning and emotion.
Traditional creative technique calls for content to dictate form. We, for example, convey the intimacy of a love scene with tender words, sensitive acting, and soft light wrapped around the lovers; we express the violence in action scenes with raucous dialogue, athletic stunts, and high-speed editing.
But for this reinvention of Nikolai Leskov's 1865 novella Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk, screenwriter Alice Birch, cinematographer Ari Wegner, and director William Oldroyd pulled the form-follows-content principle inside out.
LADY MACBETH dramatizes three murders: the poisoning of an old man, smothering of a child, and smashing of a man's skull until his brains spatter the room. The camera, however, photographs this twisted animality with precise, balanced, often dead-center symmetry, followed by long, slow static portraits of the killer staring straight ahead. Why?
Cinematographer Ari Wegner took her inspiration from the 19th century Danish artist Vilhelm Hammershøi, who in turn took his inspiration from the interiors of homes. Natural light fills his softly shadowed rooms. A piece of furniture on one side precisely balances a solitary figure on the other, sitting or standing with her back to us, looking out a window.
The Dane's work might remind you of "Arrangement in Grey and Black No. 1" (1871), commonly known as Whistler's Mother. Like the American master, Hammershøi's symmetrical compositions are calm to the edge of uncanny.
In theory, symmetry, soft light, and long held static compositions should defuse energy and relax us, but when these aesthetics conceal hideous deeds, counterpoint unnerves the mind. Calculatedly framed rooms of sepulchral stillness—nothing out of place, certainly nothing human—creep us out. To bring us to the edge of terror, Wegner's obsessively balanced monochrome compositions focus a hypnotic tension between frozen form and scalding content.
LADY MACBETH arouses the high-tension question "Will Katherine get away with murder?", then answers it in a breath-catching final sequence you will never forget.
To prepare for this turning point, director William Oldroyd made three key casting choices: Florence Pugh, a white actor, as Katherine, the master's wife; Naomi Ackie, a black actor, as Anna, her servant; Cosmo Jarvis, an actor of mixed race, as Sebastian the stableman.
Audiences may be confused to see servants of color in Victorian England, but the British Empire covered the globe, so why not. This ingenious black/white counterpoint makes the oppression and humiliation of Katherine by powerful, privileged males all that more harrowing, but more strategically, the bold casting sets up a stunning pay-off at Story Climax. As a result, 19th century Northumberland becomes a perfect anachronism for racial and gender politics today.
A character dimension brackets two contradictory qualities in one soul. To create a complex role, a writer first imagines a trait—something physical or behavioral—then looks for an opposite facet to counterpoint it.
Florence Pugh first portrays Katherine as a frail porcelain beauty imprisoned in a dark world, victimized by cruel men. Her lover (Cosmo Jarvis's dark, rugged Sebastian) enters the story as a morally vacant sex athlete.
When her father-in- law and husband discover her adultery, Katherine plans and executes their murders, making Sebastian her partner in crime and herself owner of the estate. Soon after, her dead husband's bastard son and heir shows up, while Sebastian holds him down, she suffocates the child.
This last crime overwhelms Sebastian. Like Shakespeare's Macbeth, his conscience drives him to distraction and confession. Guilt counterpoints his criminality, dimensionalizing his character to powerful effect.
At climax, Katherine betrays Sebastian, destroys Anna for good measure, and gets away with it by manipulating race. She is, after all, a white woman. Her counterpointed dimension of victim/villain, innocent/psychopath, makes her one of the most fascinating characters in recent cinema.
Lastly, many critics have hailed LADY MACBETH as feminist in spirit, but when did feminism become an advocate of evil?


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Wall Spotlights
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Why We Love Wall Spotlights
When it comes to adjustable display and task lighting, nothing is as easy to control as wall spotlights. It's as simple as reaching up and tilting the light as desired. Such ease of use translates into lighting versatility. Wall spot lighting fixtures are ideal in both residential and commercial interiors to wash a wall with light, showcase an architectural feature or highlight a piece of artwork. Many of the spotlights included here can do all these things at once, with several adjustable spotlights incorporated into one fixture.
Where Wall Spotlights Go Best
Wall spotlights are able to be mounted in almost any room, providing necessary accent light in spaces or directed illumination for tasks like reading. For use in the living room, point wall spotlights upward as a wall wash and indirect ambient light. Point them downward for tabletop display lighting in the dining room or use them for bright reading light for your home office lighting. When paired with desk and floor lamps in your home office, these wall spotlights will help increase your overall productivity. In the bedroom, wall spotlighting can be combined with a light dimming switch to be used for mood lighting or reading light. And consider spotlights in the hallway to provide guiding light that pairs well with baseboard lights or overhead ceiling fixtures.
A Wall-Mounted Spotlight for Every Style
Wall spotlight fixtures are offered in a wide variety of styles, giving them the ability to be added to any kind of room. From traditional kitchens and bedrooms to ultra-modern living rooms, you'll find the perfect wall spotlight here. The Tolomeo collection from Artemide leaves rooms with a contemporary touch, offered in a number of different Italian-made lamps. For a pop of color on the wall, look to the options from Fabbian and for wall fixtures with adjustable heads, you'll want to see the complete selection from Bruck Lighting. Finally, to keep your space energy efficient, look to the assortment of LED wall spotlights.
Choosing the Best Wall Spotlights
To find the best wall spotlight for your home, you first need to determine the functional purpose of the fixture. Does it need to provide soft, ambient light or focused task-oriented light? You'll find spotlight options with adjustable heads that give you the versatility you may want. You'll also find double and triple wall spotlight options to help you really brighten up a space. Once you know the kind of fixture you need, you can begin refining your choices by important design elements like color, finish, shape and light source. If you have any questions about the wall spotlights featured here, please call our lighting experts at 877.445.4486.
Other Considerations
If you love these spotlights, then you will also love the adjustability of overhead ceiling spotlights as part of a monorail system or grouped together in a track lighting system (in fact, you will find many spotlights interchangeable between the wall or ceiling). Directional spotlights for the ceiling are the ideal choice for living rooms, kitchens and modern office spaces or for highlighting pictures and artwork with focused, directional light. And look to the collection of sconces for more decorative options to dress up your wall.


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Topic: Sorry - Flash error still shows up even when running on web site
Hi all
Sorry, I'm sure this isn't new - running v2.0.1 downloaded yesterday and have uploaded a Flickr feed to a website but the Flash error still appears ... but the gallery works ok.
"Note: Due to Flash Player security restrictions, Flickr galleries will only work when uploaded to a web server. For more information, check the SimpleViewer Support Page"
What am I doing wrong?
See > http://www.dreamkid.co.uk/fam/images1/flickr.html
PS Running Win7 RC1, latest Flash - tried it on Chrome, IE8, and FF.


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Irrigation System….for overheated golfers?May 9, 2016
It was so tempting to run through it!.....A hot, sunny Sunday was the perfect time to test the irrigation system as the contractors go through the final stages of installation. And the sight of an array of water jets spraying over the 6th green was indeed impressive. What's more incredible is that the course is almost needing water now, so soon after the days when we were all cursing the stuff.


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Website design and development for Healthcare Providers
VISIONEFX designs professional websites for medical practice, dental practice, medical billing companies, mental health providers and medical specialists. Does your current medical website look dated or need a brand new website? VISIONEFX can craft you a professional, mobile responsive, full screen web design and is more affordable than you think. Reach out the the web design experts at VISIONEFX and let us know what you'd like to do. Call VISONEFX DESIGN AT (757) 619-6456 or 757-963-1787, or send email to firstname.lastname@example.com. We look forward to hearing about your website project. When searching Web Design Healthcare Providers look no further than VISIONEFX. See More: Website design Healthcare Providers
VISIONEFX DESIGN has website clients throughout the state of Virginia and have earned a Google 5 Star Review, by providing a top-notch level of service to customers around the corner, down the street and across the state. Visit our growing list of customers on our Website Clientele web page or find clients in 'specific' cities or counties @ 'Web Design in Virginia'. Let's add your website to our list and get your business on the map!


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Off for a while, stay tuned...
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
Hot Rod Show, Part 2
They rocked well into the night over at The Diner on Saturday. Here are some videos to prove it. Warning: MuscleCah cannot be contained by a flip cam, and Jenny Creep just might be NSFW. And Angry Johnny, well, I don't need to tell you how the Killbilles are. I'll let Capt. PJ explain it.
and as always, MORE HERE!
and as always, MORE HERE!
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Saturday, May 22, 2010
Ralph's Saturday Night Live
Well, afternoon any way.
Get down to the Diner for more now!
Get down to the Diner for more now!
Posted by LB Worm at 8:59 PM No comments:
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Wormtown Weekend
Rev it up and go this week.
Saturday at Ralph's it's the Annual Hot Rod Show. Starts at 12 noon and runs all day and night. During the day it's FREE and you'll be able to view the rods and hear some live music outside while drinking ice cold Gansetts and eating those famous Burgers. At night the action moves upstairs with Angry Johnny and The Killbillies, Midnight Creeps, MuscleCah, Demons Alley, and Evil Streaks!!
And if that wasn't enough, The Numbskulls are across town at The Hotel Vernon with their monthly "Big F'n Show 3" series along with Something Wicked, Skull Hammer, Bottlefight and more! So, you'll have to flip the old mental rock n roll coin yourself. It's a tough call.
Posted by LB Worm at 9:34 AM No comments:
Monday, May 17, 2010
Buzzcocks Tonight!!!
I totally forgot about this. The Buzzcocks, punk rockers extraordinaire, are playing at The Paradise in Boston Tonight. I so wish I was going.
I've seen them a couple times, once for free at Clark University and they are always spot on with their fast sharp songs about love and life. One evening Pete Shelly spent the entire night at the studios of WICN for an interview during a solo tour years ago. I have that on tape somewhere. I always thought they were the punk equivalent of The Beatles, and paved the way for countless others who play pop/punk. If you can, GO!
Posted by LB Worm at 7:17 AM No comments:
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Moose and the Mudbugs
Spend your Sunday with Ed "Moose" Savage. Recorded in The Ship Room, Friday night.
Guaranteed to entertain.
Of course, more Here.
Oh, and Psycho the Kitty is just fine, No Obamacare for him though.
Guaranteed to entertain.
Of course, more Here.
Oh, and Psycho the Kitty is just fine, No Obamacare for him though.
Posted by LB Worm at 10:23 AM No comments:
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Wormtown Weekend
One show of note this week, Moose and the Mudbugs, legendary Boston area band is back together and playing a benefit for Moose's Kitty, Psycho, at the Hotel Vernon on Friday. Although originally from Wormtown, Ed "Moose" Savage made a name for himself in Boomland during the mid 80's heyday of Boston Rock playing in all the best clubs, with all the great bands of the time. Now, he's returning to his hometown on the heels of a couple of gigs in Boston to show you what you've been missing. Also on the bill are Moose and his Litany of Complaints and The Class of '69, an all star line up of former Worcester musicians getting together for the cause. Get there early, help out the poor putty-tat.
Saturday, over at Beatniks on Park Ave, it's a "Night of Navarone", with the Guns of Navarone. Skank till you drop.
Posted by LB Worm at 7:16 PM 1 comment:
Deadbolt, Part 3
Up now on WURN.ORG, Deadbolt, recorded live last Friday. The Whole thing, unedited, as it happened. OK, I paused it once while the band took a piss. Listen now!
Posted by LB Worm at 7:26 AM No comments:
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Deadbolt Review
The show in Providence Friday was great. The Evil Streaks opened, followed by King Sickabilly, who were both perfect openers for this gig. Deadbolt filled the house with the sound and attitude I've become accustomed to from them, despite being down one member in RA MacLean. Got to hang out with them for a bit after the show, and I don't want to wreck their image, but they are great guys and not really that scary at all. I recorded the show for a future net-cast, with their permission. I also got the chance to pick up a copy of their latest CD, "Voodoo Moonshine", that is only available at the shows for now. In the meantime here's a video.
The flipcam had a slightly rough time with their bass heavy sound, but there are a bunch more to watch on Youtube.
And some photos
The flipcam had a slightly rough time with their bass heavy sound, but there are a bunch more to watch on Youtube.
And some photos
Posted by LB Worm at 10:17 AM No comments:
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Wormtown Weekend
Friday, an Out Of Wormtown Experience at Club Hell in Protown with Deadbolt!
Big show this week at Ralph's on Saturday Night. GroupAction is having their long awaited reunion. Featuring Wormtown's own Action Woman, Deb Auchery, Heinrich von Schtupp, and Rev. Sean Revoltah. They have been off the scene for 4 or 5 years and have been rehearsing tirelessly to please the fans.
Also on the bill are Huck, Mystery Wounds, and Shawn Revoltah. So that's where it's at, on that end. Too.
Sunday, is Mothers day so take it easy. You know how much your Mother hates it when you drink. And happy day to all you Mother..s..
Posted by LB Worm at 9:18 AM No comments:
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Deadbolt, May 7
This Friday, Club Hell in Providence host "The Scariest Band in the World". From San Diego, California, it's Deadbolt. I first discovered this band by accident. I was Christmas shopping at Media Play at The Worcester Common Fashion outlets, (shows you how long ago it was!), waiting in line to check out, and on a rack of close out discs was their debut CD "Shrunken Head". By the look of it, I could tell they were different. Their music is like the soundtrack to every 60's Horror B Movie, with lyrics to match. As the years went by, I searched out more recordings and eventually got a chance to see them in NYC, when Mike Malone picked that city as a destination for his bachelor party. We had a choice between them or the Fleshtone's. We made the right choice. That was the last time Deadbolt played in the area and I swore I'd see them the next time they visited. They usually play around the west coast and travel to Europe, and are currently on a US tour which has caused some controversy within the Deadbolt community. Just last week, founding member, Bass player RA MacLean quit the band after a "disagreement" with drummer Bad Time Charlie. What this means for the future of the band, I don't know. But I plan to see them now while I can, you should too.
Also on the bill are Evil Streaks and King Sickabilly. Show of the year, so far.
Take a look...
If you're on facebook, there are more, better quality videos. Search for them, if you dare!
Posted by LB Worm at 10:42 AM No comments:
Monday, May 3, 2010
Johnny's Coming
Just a reminder, lest you forget, PiL is in Boston on Tuesday and Wednesday this week at The Royale, which I think is the old Roxy in the theater district. They have been traversing the country, playing to packed houses, appearing on national TV, playing the biggest festival of the west coast, and now it's our turn.
Take a look at what you're in for...
More here
They are also at Lupo's on 5/9 and Pearl Street on 5/16. Don't be cheated.
Take a look at what you're in for...
More here
They are also at Lupo's on 5/9 and Pearl Street on 5/16. Don't be cheated.
Posted by LB Worm at 11:37 AM No comments:
Sunday, May 2, 2010
This Month at Ralph's...1996
Posted by LB Worm at 9:58 AM No comments:
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Happy Birthday Wormtown
It was 32 years ago today The Wormtown Punk Punk Press issue #1 hit the streets of Worcester. I can't believe it's lasted so long. You can celebrate by listening to The Wormtown Birthday Show on wurn.org. It features The Performers, The Numbskulls and Musclecah recorded live at Beatnik's at the After Party for Wormtown Rocks! exhibition at the Worcester Art Museum, which runs through May 14th, and Mack the Knife, recorded at Ralph's on April 23rd. Happy Birthday to you, Wormtown!!!
Posted by LB Worm at 8:21 AM No comments:
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Postpartum Depression
Every woman who suffers from
Postpartum Depression
(PPD) should know that she is NOT ALONE!
is a temporary and very treatable condition. Proper diagnosis is the first step. It is recommended that a professional specializing in working with postpartum mothers establish an accurate diagnosis. Find out about
Perinatal Mood Disorders Treatment
at Fourth-Trimester.
A psychotherapist or psychiatrist who specializes in treating PPD, should have extensive experience working with perinatal women, should be familiar with PPD resources available in his or her community, and should belong to one of the major organizations that provides PPD related support and education, such as
Postpartum Support International
Counseling or psychotherapy with a specialist can be extremely helpful. PPD is different from other types of depression or anxiety. So is its treatment. An improper course of treatment can cause more harm than help. Support groups can provide a safe environment where mothers can share their concerns with others who are experiencing similar difficulties.
They are also a good place to meet other new parents. In some cases, medication may be necessary to treat the symptoms. Breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor who has experience prescribing medications to nursing mothers.
A focus on proper nutrition can also help. Some medical professionals stress the importance of foods containing omega-3 essential fatty acids, amino acids and stress reducing vitamins to help alleviate depression. There are other alternative treatments some women have used successfully. You should always consult with your doctor before trying any such treatments, especially if you are breastfeeding.
Csilla Andor, MSW, LCSW, is a psychotherapist in Oregon who specializes in treating emotional difficulties related to the baby blues, pregnancy, the postpartum period, miscarriage, pregnancy loss, infant loss, infertility and adoption.
She developed her specialty after her own experiences with her critically ill newborn, and after battling her own postpartum depression.
Please read:
My struggle with Postpartum Depression
Csilla offers individual, couples, and family therapy in
Corvallis and Eugene, Oregon
. She provides phone sessions to clients living in the states of Oregon and California. She offers counseling/ psychotherapy sessions in clients home in Corvallis, Eugene, and in nearby communities, such as Albany, Sweet Home, Lebanon, Salem, Newport, etc.
Csilla is currently the Oregon Co-Coordinator of
Postpartum Support International (PSI)
, a non-profit organization that provides support, education and advocacy related to prenatal or postpartum mood disorders. Through her volunteer work with PSI, Csilla provides free phone and email support to pregnant and postpartum mothers and their family members. She runs the free WellMama Pregnancy-Postpartum Stress Support Group in Eugene, OR,
Csilla is a member of the Lane County Perinatal Mood Disorders Consortium in Eugene, and works with numerous healthcare professionals and agencies in Oregon to help improve mental health services to perinatal women and their families.
Csilla Andor
Csilla Andor, MSW, LCSW
Postpartum Depression | PPD | Fourth-Trimester.com | Corvallis, Oregon


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Photos: Halfpipe training at Buttermilk
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Aspen airport runway should stay put, Pitkin County commissioners decide in 4-1 vote
The future of the Aspen-Pitkin County airport took a significant step forward Thursday. Pitkin County commissioners decided 4-1 to accept the recommendation of a community-based committee and leave the runway where it is, a bedrock decision in the long process toward a new terminal and airfield.


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My Nonprofit Reviews
Review for Be The Star You Are Inc, Moraga, CA, USA
After working and volunteering with Be the Star You Are! Charity for the past seven years, I have nothing but praise for its goals of positivity, literacy, and well-being for women, families, and youth across the world. Though the volunteer team at Be the Star You Are! has changed constantly since I first joined, the team dynamic has always stayed the same. Everyone is warm, welcoming, and loves working with others to spread the goodwill of this charity to others. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to begin working with this charity so many years ago!
Review for Be The Star You Are Inc, Moraga, CA, USA
It's been about five years since I first started volunteering with Be the Star You Are! Charity, and I'm very happy to say that I am still a part of the charity, even as a college student. Joining Be the Star You Are! has given me many opportunities to work with adults on a business level and to broadcast on a radio show. Thanks to these experiences, I have gained more confidence in both my communication skills and in myself. I look forward to continuing my work with Be the Star You Are! and highly suggest anyone interested in communications and media to check this charity out.
More Feedback
Would you volunteer for this group again?
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
Review for Be The Star You Are Inc, Moraga, CA, USA
I've been working with Be the Star You Are! for the past three years, and I have truly enjoyed every minute of it. As a volunteer, I read and review books of all different genres and help out at various events. Volunteering with Be the Star You Are! has introduced me to many new people, all of whom are very kind, dedicated people. It is because of my work with Be the Star You Are! that I have met so many teenagers with the same interests as me: reading, writing, and helping others.
Cynthia Brian, the founder of Be the Star You Are!, is inspirational, optimistic, and extremely dedicated to her work. Through her positive influence as a role model, I feel like I have grown as a writer and learned more about interacting with others.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
my personal life, writing, reading, and growth as a person.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
try to attend more events rather than only review books.
You are an amazing writer with a bright future ahead of you. Thank you for your dedication, promptness, and gorgeous smile. You definitely shine!


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Gait Analysis Helps You Get Around Better
There are many different technologies which we use to assist people on their road to recovery – some of them are used in therapy, and some of them are used to better assist us in diagnosing what exactly the issue you are suffering from is. Gait analysis is one such diagnostic tool in our arsenal, to help us better care for you.
We are constantly striving to make sure that the treatments we employ make use of the most up to date data available, and we combine this successfully with other modalities that we have been using successfully for a long time.
Walking may not be as easy for you as it once was, or perhaps you are fine getting around but doing anything more than that seems impossible. Whatever impediment exists that stands in the way of you being able to get where you want to go under your own steam, we can help you identify the root cause of the issue. Once that is done we can then formulate a treatment program that will help to deal with the problem.
Get Around Easier
Call Us Today!
Using gait analysis we look to see where there are imbalances which may be having a serious impact on your mobility. Once we have that information, we can move forward on implementing a physical therapy program designed to correct these imbalances. We know that we can help improve any issue that we identify, and our diagnostic and therapeutic technologies are such that we know, and you know, that you are in the best hands.
Being able to move freely and get where you need to go without relying on others is an important thing; we know this, and we know how to make that possible for you again. If you have any questions at all you should contact us today and we will be happy to help you.


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Unleash your inner animal with the fun Safari Cheetah giclee shade that adorns this sleek tiger bronze club floor lamp.
Additional Info:
Add style to your favorite room with this club style floor lamp. The lamp comes in a tiger bronze finish and has a slim profile perfect for seating areas, bedrooms and more. Up top is a drum shade with a stylish Safari Cheetah printed giclee pattern. An on/off pull chain hangs below the shade within easy reach. Custom made-to-order shade design. U.S. Patent # 7,347,593.


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Radian Bets on Private-Label MBS Market Rebirth in Clayton Deal
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By agreeing to buy Clayton Holdings for $305 million, Radian Group is essentially betting that the private mortgage securitization market will make a comeback.
Clayton provides outsourced services such as loan reviews and due diligence for mortgage-backed securities deals—demand for which would presumably pick up if private issuance takes off again. S.A. Ibrahim, Radian's chief executive, figures it's only a matter of time before that rebound happens.
"Banks will try and relieve capital pressure" by turning to private label securitizations of loans held in their portfolios, Ibrahim said Wednesday on a conference call with investors and analysts. This is one of the reasons Radian believes the private-label MBS market will grow, although not to the levels seen before the crisis.
Even with fewer or smaller deals, quality control should be in hot demand as memories of the mortgage crisis linger, Radian reckons. Clayton, after all, is the firm whose former president revealed glaring risk-management lapses in the bubble-era securitization process to the Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission in 2010.
The new pools are likely to have due diligence requirements that are "much more extensive, where a much larger number of loans, whether it's 100% or something just less than that, have to be reviewed in order for a deal to go forward," said Teresa Bryce Bazemore, the president of Radian Guaranty, the company's flagship mortgage insurance unit. "So we think that the securitization market doesn't have to get back to the levels that it had been before in order for Clayton to benefit."
The deal comes as Radian faces a new competitive landscape in its core business. Over the past few years, the Philadelphia mortgage insurer has been aggressive in adding new lender customers. It finished 2013 as the industry's largest company in insurance in force, and second by new insurance written, according to MortgageStats.com.
But since the crisis Essent (which is now a close fifth in new insurance written behind legacy insurer Genworth), National MI and Arch US MI have entered the fray.
"We did see some shift in the market share from the third quarter of last year until now. That's one of the reasons why we continue to be very focused on bringing on new customers," Bazemore said.
Adding Clayton is "another way that we differentiate ourselves from our mortgage insurance competitors," Ibrahim said. Radian is "positioning ourselves for what we believe is the next opportunity in the future of the housing finance system in an area where we have already started doing things, to a small extent, on our own."
Clayton, based in Shelton, Conn., also offers servicing surveillance and foreclosed-property services, which would provide additional revenue streams to complement Radian's core private mortgage insurance business.
"While the significant upside opportunities from the acquisition depend on many things, including the growth of the private securitization market, Clayton is already a strong and successful company on a standalone basis," Ibrahim said.
Radian also sees opportunities to market Clayton's services to its lender clients.
"We think there is an opportunity, given the services that Clayton provides, to market those services in a cross-sell way, using our sales force, and so we've been thinking about, how do we package those services so that our sales force can introduce them?" said Bazemore.
In servicing surveillance, for example, Radian "had started looking at how do we get on top of how loans were being serviced, and we found that some of our customers were interested in accessing that service, that capability, and Clayton provides us that," Ibrahim said.
Radian has a much larger client roster than Clayton has. Only a small amount of Clayton's revenue comes from Radian's competitors in the mortgage insurance business.
Like the other three surviving boom-era mortgage insurers, Radian has been working on clearing from its books the legacy business that has affected the company's finances over the past few years.
Getting the Clayton deal done "will not distract or compromise our focus" on Radian Guaranty, Ibrahim said.
Radian made $203 million in the first quarter, of which $51 million came from fair market valuation adjustments on its investments and $65 million from investment income.
The company said on the call it has asked the New York Department of Financial Services for permission to make an extraordinary dividend payment at a unit called Radian Asset Assurance. Those funds would then be contributed to Radian Guaranty.
The company would not disclose the size of the proposed dividend. "But one way to get a general perspective on it is that our ordinary dividend this year would have been within the range of $30 million, approximately, and you can assume that this request is materially in excess of that," said Radian Asset Assurance President David Beldler.
The unit, a financial guarantee company, has been operating in run-off for the past several years. During that time, dividends from Radian Asset Assurance have been used to boost Radian Guaranty's capital. Radian Asset Assurance now has excess capital, because the amount of risk on its books has decreased.
To pay for Clayton, as well as repay debt due in 2015, Radian is selling 15.5 million shares of its common stock plus $200 million in debt. The newly issued debt would come due in 2019. The acquisition is expected to close this summer.


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AghamBayan: A DOST-UP Festival of Science, Technology and Innovation celebrates the scientific projects and accomplishments of the University of the Philippines (UP) supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
The one-day event showcased THIRTY NINE (39) DOST-supported Research Projects, through poster exhibit and pitching sessions, which have manifested impact on public good, extension, and utilization, especially in Health, Environment, Food and Agriculture, ICT and Manufacturing sectors. Featured technologies are the first Filipino-built microsatellites for scientific earth observation; tools that will guide local governments and communities in disaster preparedness and responses in the event of typhoon and landslides; organic and environment-friendly biofertilizers that improve the harvest of our farmers; and a national system for newborn screening that saves children from mental retardation, among others.
Out of the 39, Eleven (11) R&D projects were highlighted taking into consideration its deployment status and impact. Under the Environment cluster are the Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) Data for DREAM Program; SENSLOPE: Robust real-time early warning system for landslides; and DIWATA Microsatellites. Under the Food and Agriculture cluster are the Protein Enriched Copra Meal; SARAi: Smarter Approaches to Reinvigorate Agriculture as an Industry in the Philippines; ACTICon: Biopesticide for Fusarium Wilt of Cavendish Bananas; Shrimp pathogenomics towards a competitive and sustainable Philippine shrimp industry; and Improvement of coconut varieties for a competitive and sustainable Philippine coconut industry. Under the Health cluster are the RA 9288: An act promulgating a comprehensive policy and national system for newborn screening; Sambong tablet; and Lab in a Mug – Dengue Detection Kit. All technologies write-up were compiled in the handbook entitled "Better Living through Science and Technology", which was turned-over to government and industry stakeholders.
AghamBayan is a rare opportunity that brings together Government Policy-Makers, Industry Decision-Makers, and the Academic Science Community under one roof. Different stakeholders and partners, who recognize and support the importance of Science & Technology, and Research & Development for a sustainable and inclusive national development, converge in one place to participate in Panel Discussions, Pitch Sessions, Poster Exhibit, Partnership Signings, and Open Networking.
AghamBayan 2018 is a project of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the University of the Philippines (U.P.) System, in collaboration with DOST National Research Council of the Philippines, DOST Office of the Undersecretary for R&D and Special Projects Division, DOST Technology Application and Promotion Institute, U.P. Technology Transfer and Business Development Office (TTBDO), Communicating Science and Technology, Research and Development in U.P. (CoST-UP), TVUP Internet Television Network, and U.P. Open University. Held on June 20 at the Philippine International Cultural Center.
Photo credit to Stephanie S. Cabigao of UP Media and Public Relations Office (UP MPRO)


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High Protein Recovery Recipes
Nutrition plays one of the key roles in muscle recovery process while protein is one of the key nutrients required for a sustainable muscle maintenance. Here at Vifit Sport we're always working to develop new delicious recipes that are quick and easy to make to at home with a balanced nutrient profile to aid muscle recovery.
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This pure Silk interlock dress is an all-time favourite style with a sweetheart neckline. Made from our signature high quality Silk knit natural fabric, this dress is kind next to the skin and drapes beautifully. Easy to accessorise with your favourite jewellery, it will take you from occasions to Sunday lunch to a day in the office and beyond. Looking elegant and poised has never been easier.
Length approx. 112cm (44")
Pure Silk
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