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Telecom ETFs in Focus on Following Failed Merger Plans - ETF News And Commentary
The booming merger and acquisition (M&A) market, in which the value of global deals has already surpassed the $2 trillion mark this year, saw some of the proposals collapsing recently, raising questions about the sustainability of M&A momentum.
The doubts arose as the proposed merger plan between the third and fourth largest mobile network operators in the U.S. - Sprint ( S ) and T-Mobile ( TMUS ) - fell apart. Though, on the same day, Twenty-First Century Fox ( FOX ) pulled off its $80 billion offer to buy Time Warner Inc. ( TWX ).
Sprint Drops T-Mobile Bid
Softbank-owned Sprint has finally called off its plan to bid for rival T-Mobile as it faces stiff opposition from regulators in an industry dominated by just a few players, according to the Wall Street Journal . Sprint also named Marcelo Claure, founder of mobile phone distributor Brightstar, as its new CEO.
The no-deal is a big blow to SoftBank's attempts to form a combined entity in the U.S. Telecom space in order to compete with the large caps in the space, namely, Verizon ( VZ ) and AT&TInc. ( T ) .
After the disappointment, Sprint will have to work harder to regain its lost subscribers over several quarters. Though the company has finally managed to end more than six years of losses with $23 billion of profit during the fiscal first quarter, it lost 245,000 postpaid subscribers in its most lucrative Consumer segment.
On the other hand, Sprint's former merger partner has been adding millions of post paid customers by wooing them with lucrative pricing plans (read: Telecom Earnings and Windstream REIT Plan Boost These ETFs ).
In the Cards
After the failed merger plans, it's a wait and see situation to look out for the next move from Deutsche Telecom, T-Mobile's majority owner. The French telecom company had earlier expressed that it would like to eventually sell off its stake in T-Mobile.
Moreover, T-Mobile might have to face another takeover bid in the wake of this scrapped deal. French mobile carrier, Iliad has recently made an offer to acquire a 56.6% stake in T-Mobile for $15 billion, though T-Mobile intends to turn down the bid. Also, DISH Network Corp . ( DISH ) had earlier stated that it would be interested in T-Mobile if Softbank's deal fell apart.
Market Reaction
Telecom stocks saw a blood bath during recent trading thanks to the failed deal news. Sprint plunged roughly 19% on elevated volumes of more than 159 million shares - ten times the daily average trading volumes.
Meanwhile, T-Mobile slipped 8.4% on nearly four times the daily average volume. The news led to a contagion effect among the large caps - Verizon and AT&T also slipped more than 1% each.
It also caused a sell-off in Telecom ETFs reversing last week's gains, when the funds had soared after Windstream Holdings ( WIN ) said that it plans to spin off its telecom network business into a publicly traded real estate investment trust (REIT).
Below we have highlighted three telecom ETFs which are expected to be in focus in the upcoming days, following the cancelled merger plans. Investors should avoid these in the near term, but recognize that many have strong ranks and better prospects for longer term outlooks:
Vanguard Telecommunication Services ETF( VOX )
VOX is the largest ETF in the telecom space with an asset base of $734 million, but sees moderate trading volume of 45,000 shares a day.
The fund lost roughly 2% following the news, and is down more than 4% in the past one week (see: all the Telecom ETFs here ).
The fund is heavily concentrated in its top two holdings - AT&T Inc. and Verizon - which together form 43% of total fund assets. However, Sprint and T-Mobile are also among the top 10 holdings having a combined exposure of 6.2%.
iShares U.S. Telecommunications ETF( IYZ )
The fund tracks the Dow Jones U.S. Select Telecommunications Index to provide exposure to a small basket of 26 stocks.
Verizon and AT&T Inc. occupy the top two spots in the fund, having roughly 13% exposure each. Sprint and T-Mobile are also among the top 10 holdings having 4.2% and 4.6% exposure, respectively (read: A Comprehensive Guide to Telecom ETFs ).
IYZ has accumulated over half a billion dollars since inception and has a good trading volume of more than 200,000 shares a day. The fund was the biggest loser in its space with more than a 2% decline.
IYZ currently has a Zacks ETF Rank #2 or Buy Rating (read: 2 Hot Summer ETFs Surging to #1 Ranks ).
Fidelity MSCI Telecommunication Service ETF ( FCOM )
The fund manages a small asset base of $67 million with Sprint and T-Mobile having approximately 3% allocation each in the fund. Verizon and AT&T dominate here too, with roughly 22% allocation each.
The fund lost 2% yesterday and is down 4.4% in the past one week. FCOM currently has a Zacks ETF Rank #3 or Hold Rating.
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SPRINT CORP (S): Free Stock Analysis Report
T-MOBILE US INC (TMUS): Free Stock Analysis Report
VIPERS-TELE SVC (VOX): ETF Research Reports
ISHARS-US TELE (IYZ): ETF Research Reports
FID-TELECOM (FCOM): ETF Research Reports
WINDSTREAM HLDG (WIN): Free Stock Analysis Report
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.


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On eve of W.F.P. convention, no obvious outcome
ALBANY—With the Working Families Party convention starting this weekend and no clear consensus on a nominee among committee members, it's possible the party will nominate a "placeholder" candidate for the gubernatorial race.
Delegates to the convention in Albany are conflicted about whether to nominate Governor Andrew Cuomo, or try and send a message by nominating someone whose beliefs align more closely with their own. Even as education expert and charter-school critic Diane Ravitch withdrew her name from consideration yesterday, Fordham Law professor and former Howard Dean campaign aide Zephyr Teachout emerged as a possible alternative.
The decision will be made by the state committee, which is comprised of about 200 people. One man and one woman can be elected from each of the state's 150 Assembly districts, but about one third of the committee seats are vacant. According to state law, each delegate's vote is weighted based on the percentage of people who voted on the W.F.P. line in 2010 (for Cuomo, ironically enough) in each district. That gives the most voting power to delegates from the Assembly districts that include Brooklyn Heights, Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens; Park Slope and Boerum Hill; the West Village, Upper West Side, Morningside Heights and upstate Ithaca.
If a district's state committee slots are vacant, its votes cannot be cast, according to state election law. Those vacancies also lower the total number of potential votes (the denominator) used to determine whether a candidate earns a primary spot (which takes 25 percent of the weighted vote), formal nomination (which takes a majority) or Wilson-Pakula proclamation, the formal document required to let a non-W.F.P. member (an enrolled Democrat, usually) run on the party's line.
Cuomo and Teachout, for example, would need this designation. But an enrolled W.F.P. member would not, and could force Cuomo into a primary if they won the support of 25 percent of the weighted vote.
While the party's executive committee is dominated by major labor unions—it includes leaders of SEIU 1199 and the Communications Workers of America—most state committee people are engaged and active citizen activists. Roughly a dozen have ties to the organizing group Citizen Action; both executive director Karen Scharff and legislative director Jessica Wisneski are elected delegates. It's unclear which delegates are employees or have ties to major unions, but they do have some influence. Paul Schuh, a leader of the United Auto Workers in western New York, is a delegate, as is Michael McGuire of the Mason Tenders.
W.F.P. spokesman Khan Shoeib said the floor would be opened to nominations on Saturday evening, after delegates heard from a series of speakers, including Dorian Warren. Nominations will be accepted from the floor, speeches will be made, and votes will be called.
In an era where conventions are scripted affairs designed to deliver a party's message, the convention will be an old-style fight. If no candidate wins a majority on the first ballot, another will be called. And another, and another—at least one W.F.P. source said he expected Saturday's convention to stretch past midnight.
If it goes too long, delegates could opt for the placeholder route.
State law bars any person from running for more than one office at a time, so if the party's nominee is nominated for and accepts a candidacy for a judgeship, they will be struck from the gubernatorial ticket. (Party leaders at either the state or county level control judicial nominations.)
"New York election law allows political parties some flexibility for their nominating process," said Jerry Goldfeder, an election lawyer who usually works for Democrats.
By nominating a placeholder, the party ensures that it maintains a spot on the ballot, even if it's with a candidate they have no intention of pushing toward the governor's office.
It's not an uncommon practice. In 2010, Conservative Party gubernatorial candidate Rick Lazio was nominated for a judicial seat after he withdrew his name from the race for governor upon losing the Republican primary. The G.O.P. and Conservative parties made no secret of the fact the nomination was to consolidate support for Carl Paladino, the Buffalo developer who knocked out Lazio in the G.O.P. primary.
In 2013, the W.F.P. nominated union lawyer Kevin Finnegan for the mayoral race, and later re-gifted the nomination to then-Public Advocate Bill de Blasio after the Democratic primary in September. In 2010, the party nominated Legal Aid Society attorney Kenny Schaeffer for governor, only to replace him with Cuomo.
The only problem is that a placeholder would take control from the more activist-based state committee and place it in the hands of the executive committee, which is dominated by labor leaders who have been assiduously courted by Cuomo.

subset: commoncrawl


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360 Degrees of Care at Southern Regional
Guiding Patients Through the Surgical Experience
Southern Regional is the only hospital in south metro Atlanta that has an innovative, surgical care coordinator program to help guide patients through the entire surgical experience.
We understand that surgery can make patients and their loved ones nervous, so our care coordinators are here to help make your experience as easy as possible. We are committed to providing the best care before, during and after surgery, and our care coordinators play an important role in this.
Here's how it works. Each patient is assigned a care coordinator who walks them through every step in the surgery process, from pre-assessment to post-operative care.
Personalized Care
From admission to discharge, care coordinators act as the single point of contact for patients and the entire medical team devoted to their care.
Prior to surgery, they educate each patient about what to expect of the upcoming procedure and arrange for any pre-surgery tests. They also provide support on the day of surgery and keep waiting family members informed of progress.
After surgery, care coordinators visit every inpatient. They help facilitate communication with the physician and care team, review any post-operative care needs and help with discharge. And they don't stop there. Care coordinators continue to support patients after discharge, including follow-up care or any help needed for a complete recovery.


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Travel across the heart of Central Asia from Turkmenistan to Tajikistan on this 47-day overland group adventure. Tour the bizarre city of Ashgabat, marvel at the flaming Darvaza Gas Crater and take in the Silk Road cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand. Explore wonderful scenery in Kyrgyzstan's Fergana Valley and Jeti Oguz, camp in traditional felt yurts and trek in the rugged Fann Mountains before ending your trip in the Tajik capital of Dushanbe.
Trip Highlights
Not Included
Welcome to Ashgabat!
Welcome to Central Asia and the start of your overland adventure. On arrival in Ashgabat, an included transfer will take you to our joining hotel where there will be a pre-departure Welcome Meeting at 10:00am.
After you've met your tour group, there's an included minibus tour to see some the city's bizarre architecture. Turkmenistan's eccentric president has a fascination with world records and as well as the highest concentration of marble-clad buildings, the city is home to the world's largest indoor Ferris Wheel and holds the record for the highest number of fountains in a public place.
Overnight: Ashgabat
Darvaza Gas Crater
Ashgabat - Darvaza Gas Crater. Boarding our overland truck for the first time, we leave Ashgabat and head north into the Karakum Desert. We stop at the incredible Darvaza Gas Crater, which is known locally as the "Door to Hell".
The crater was formed in 1971 when Soviet oil drillers accidentally caused the ground to collapse and gas to begin escaping from the newly-formed crater. The Soviets tried to burn the gas off and the crater has been continuously burning away ever since. After we've visited this unusual site, we find somewhere suitable for our first night of wild camping.
Overnight: Darvaza | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Kunye Urgench
Darvaza Gas Crater - Kunye Urgench. We continue our overland journey across the Karakum Desert today. There's an included stop at the ruins of Kunye Urgench, once a major city on the Silk Road. The site was first settled in the 5th century due to its location on the shores of the Amu Daria River and even survived the 1221 invasion of Genghis Khan - it was finally abandoned in 1378. Surviving ruins include the towering 60m high Kutlug-Timur Minaret, the highest in Central Asia. We'll wild camp in the desert near to the city tonight.
Overnight: Kunye Urgench | Breakfast, Lunch
Ancient Khiva
Kunye Urgench - Khiva (Uzbekistan). On day 4 we browse the markets in the border town of Dashoguz before crossing into Uzbekistan. Continuing overland, we reach Khiva later in the day.
There's a guided tour of the ancient Silk Road city the next day during which you can see highlights including the turquoise Kalta Minor Minaret, the blue palace of Tash Khovli and the Juma Mosque. There's also plenty of time to explore the city independently in the afternoon.
Overnight: Khiva | Breakfast x 2
Khiva - Bukhara. Day 6 is a travel day as we journey to Bukhara. There's a guided tour of the city on day 7, taking in highlights including the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, Ark Fortress and Kalon Mosque. You'll also get to see the giant Kalyan Minaret, which earned its nickname of "Death Tower" due to its historic use as a place of execution, where prisoners were thrown from the top.
There's free time on day 8 and you may wish to join an optional visit to the gruesome Zindon Prison. A barbaric method of internment used here historically was the Bug Pit. Prisoners would be thrown into the pit and all manner of creatures including rats and scorpions would be emptied onto their heads.
Overnight: Bukhara
Nurata & the Kyzylkhum Desert
Bukhara - Nurata (Kyzylkhum Desert). Leaving Bukhara, we head into the Kyzylkhum Desert this morning and arrive at our yurt camp near the town of Nurata. Yurts are the traditional accommodation of nomadic people in Central Asia and you get to spend the night in one of the comfortable felt tents. There's also an optional camel ride across the rolling sand dunes.
Overnight: Nurata | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Exploring Samarkand
Nurata (Kyzylkhum Desert) - Samarkand. On day 10 there's time to explore the Nurata Hills and if you wish, you can take a refreshing dip in Lake Ajdar Kul. After lunch we make our way to Samarkand, one of the most beautiful cities on the Silk Road.
On day 11 there's a guided tour of Samarkand, taking in highlights including the central Registan plaza. You'll also see the Ulug Beg Observatory and the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once the jewel in the empire of the famous warlord Timur, who conquered much of Central Asia in the 14th century. Timur's tomb can also be found in Samarkand. Day 12 is free to explore this beautiful and charismatic city at leisure or you can opt to visit the nearby city of Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Timur.
Overnight: Samarkand | Breakfast x 3
Terrific Tashkent
Samarkand - Tashkent. On day 13 we drive to the Uzbek capital, Tashkent. The city is a fascinating contrast to many other Silk Road cities. Whilst Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva and others have retained much of their ancient architecture and atmosphere, Tashkent is very much a Soviet city. Clean and modern, it's a very interesting place to visit. We have two full free days to explore the city and may be joined by new travellers to explore Kyrgyzstan on the next part of our trip.
Please note: The next leg of our journey is subject to change, dependent on the weather conditions in Kyrgyzstan. Refer to the trip notes for more details.
Overnight: Tashkent | Breakfast x 3
Tashkent - Kokand - Fergana. Today we cross over the scenic and mountainous Kamchik Pass in local transport to Kokand. Here we can visit the Khudayar Khan's Palace and the Margilan Silk Factory. We then continue through striking mountain scenery to Fergana where we'll be joined by our overland truck, which must cross the pass without passengers.
Overnight: Fergana | Breakfast
Fergana - Arslanbob (Kyrgyzstan). We say goodbye to Uzbekistan this morning and cross into the mountainous country of Kyrgyzstan, where the scenery is certain to leave you impressed. Once we've crossed the border, we drive to Arslanbob in the Fergana Valley, where we spend the night in a local family-run guesthouse. During our stay here, there will be free time to wander into the walnut forest - the world's largest walnut grove.
Overnight: Arslanbob | Breakfast
Kyrgyz Fergana Valley
Arslanbob - Kyrgyz Fergana Valley. The next three days will be spent overlanding through the incredible scenery of the Kyrgyz Fergana Valley. We stop often to hike and enjoy the amazing views. We plan to wild camp en route but if the weather is too cold then we'll stay in local guesthouses instead.
Please note: If preferred by the group then we can spend an extra night in Arslanbob and spend just two days overlanding in the Kyrgyz Fergana Valley.
Overnight: Kyrgyz Fergana Valley | Breakfast x 3, Lunch x 3, Dinner x 3
Song Kol Lake
Kyrgyz Fergana Valley - Song Kol Lake. Day 21 sees us journey to stunning Song Kol Lake. Located in remote and pristine scenery, the lake is considered quite inaccessible and we'll get to enjoy the absolute tranquility of the area. We camp in comfortable felt yurts near the shore of the lake and over the next two days there's plenty of time for optional hiking and horse-riding in the region. You may also get to meet some of the local nomadic farmers.
Please note: In the low season we will be unable to stay at Song Kol Lake due to the adverse weather. Instead we will likely stay in yurts on the southern shore of Lake Issyk Kol. Please see the trip notes for details.
Overnight: Song Kol Lake | Breakfast x 2, Dinner x 2
Song Kol Lake - Kochkor. We drive to the small village of Kochkor today where we will be staying in small family-run guesthouses and experiencing some traditional Kyrgyz hospitality. There's an included visit to the local museum and we stop at a traditional women's felt making cooperative. The cooperative produces 'shyrdaks', the traditional felt carpets for which Kyrgyzstan is known. Optional activities in Kochkor include a folk demonstration and you can learn how to erect a yurt.
Overnight: Kochkor | Breakfast, Dinner
Stunning Jeti Oguz
Kochkor - Jeti Oguz. On day 24 we have a scenic drive along the southern shore of Lake Issyk Kol and up into the mountains of the Jeti Oguz region. We'll make a stop en route to watch a demonstration from a local eagle hunter, whose well-trained birds are used to catch wild animals for their skins and meat.
The next day is free to explore this picturesque corner of Kyrgyzstan. Hike in the hills and mountains or opt for a horse-riding excursion with some local nomads. We'll camp in the area for these two nights.
Overnight: Jeti Oguz | Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 2, Dinner x 2
Jeti Oguz - Karakol. Today we drive to the Russian-style town of Karakol, where the afternoon is free to explore. Perhaps pay a visit to the beautiful Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Overnight: Karakol | Breakfast
Cholpon Ata & Chong Kemin
Karakol - Chong Kemin. Leaving Karakol behind on day 27, we drive to the northern shore of Lake Issyk Kol to admire the ancient petroglyphs at Cholpon Ata. We then continue to the Chong Kemin Valley, our base for the next two nights.
Day 28 is free to hike in the region or join an optional white water rafting excursion. There is also horse-riding available in the area. We plan to camp in Chong Kemin but if it's too cold or preferred by the group then we may be able to camp in the grounds of a guesthouse instead, or possibly upgrade to rooms.
Overnight: Chong Kemin | Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 2, Dinner x 2
Chong Kemin - Bishkek. On day 29 we drive to the relaxed capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek. We'll stop at the Burana Tower en route and there's plenty of free time to explore. Perhaps head out to Ala-Too Square - the central point of the city, or relax in a cafe on the tree-lined Freedom Avenue. There's an optional excursion to the State Historical Museum during our stay. We may be joined by new travellers for the next leg of our journey into Tajikistan.
Overnight: Bishkek | Breakfast x 1
Toktugal Lake
Bishkek - Toktogul Lake. This morning we depart Bishkek, heading south towards Toktogul Lake, a shimmering reservoir which is surrounded by mountains. The off-the-beaten track nature of this location enhances its unspoilt beauty. We'll wild camp in the area near the lake tonight.
Overnight: Toktugal Lake | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Osh & Sulaiman-Too Mountain
Toktogul Lake - Osh. Day 32 sees us embark on a long drive through mountainous, windswept terrain to Osh, one of the oldest cities in Kyrgyzstan.
On day 33 we climb to the summit of the sacred Sulaiman-Too Mountain, which is one of only three UNESCO-listed sites in the whole of Kyrgyzstan. It was once an important Muslim pilgrimage site and the panoramic views from the summit are enchanting. There's also a small mosque here which is still in use. We visit the National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex, which is built inside the mountain, then return to Osh where there's free time to explore the ancient city.
Overnight: Osh
Tulpar Kol Lake
Osh - Tulpar Kol Lake. Today we say goodbye to Osh and set off over the mountainous Taldyk Pass (3,615m). We arrive in the scenic mountain village of Say Mogul and then leave our overland truck behind for an excursion up to the beautiful Tulpar Kol Lake. Here we either wild camp or stay in yurts, surrounded by incredible scenery.
Overnight: Tulpar Kol Lake | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Karakul Lake & Murghab
Tulpar Kol Lake - Karakul Lake (Tajikistan) - Murghab. Today we enter the mountainous Republic of Tajikistan. The border is located at more than 4,300m above sea level in the mountains so there are spectacular views from the border point.
Once we've crossed into Tajikistan, we drive to the shore of Karakul Lake, which is at a slightly higher elevation than Lake Titicaca in Peru. The surrounding marshes and peat bogs are also an important stopover for bird species including Himalayan vultures and Caucasian great rosefinches.
Enjoy lunch lakeside before we continue our drive over the Ak-Baital mountain pass, the highest pass on the famous Pamir Highway. This famous road, also known as the M41, connects Tajikistan with Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. We arrive in the small town of Murghab, which was once the highest town in the Soviet Union.
Overnight: Murghab | Breakfast
Murghab - Langar. There's an early start this morning as we embark on a full day's drive through the rocky scenery of the Pamir Mountains. Get your first glimpse of the Panj River, which we'll be following for the next few days alongside the border with Afghanistan. We stay in a traditional Pamiri guesthouse in the village of Langar tonight.
Overnight: Langar | Breakfast
Vrang & Ishkashim
Langar - Vrang - Ishkashim. This morning we can take a challenging but rewarding hike up to the ancient petroglyphs which were carved onto the rocks above Langar. Admire these ancient carvings and the spectacular views of the Wakhan Valley.
Later we also visit the tiny village of Vrang where we can admire the incredible and mysterious 4th century Vrang Stupa. There is fierce debate about the use of this amazing ancient structure, some believe it was a Buddhist stupa whilst others say it was once a Zoroastrian Fire Temple, similar to those found elsewhere in the Middle East. We also have time to visit the Village House Museum of Mubarak-i-Wakhani before arriving in Ishkashim, not to be confused with the town of the exact same name just over the border in Afghanistan.
Overnight: Ishkashim | Breakfast
Ishkashim - Khorog. On day 38 we drive to the riverside city of Khorog, the capital of the off the beaten track autonomous region of Gorno-Badakhshan. On the way we stop at the Garm Chasma hot springs, where you can enjoy a relaxing dip. There's free time on day 39 to explore the riverside city. Perhaps browse the local bazaar or simply relax in one of the many parks. You may also wish to join an optional excursion to the second highest botanical garden in the world.
Overnight: Khorog | Breakfast x 2
Khorog - Khalaykum. Today we have a long drive through yet more incredible scenery along the border with Afghanistan. Late afternoon sees us arrive at the town of Khalaykum where the evening is free to explore. Khalaykum is one of the prettiest towns in the Pamirs. Beautiful mosques and houses lean over the river which charges through the town centre and mountains rise up on all sides.
Overnight: Khalaykum | Breakfast
Khalaykum - Kulob. We have an early start this morning in order to reach Kulob, our next destination. We peel away from the border with Afghanistan and head back into Tajikistan, arriving at our hotel towards the end of the afternoon. Kulob is one of the biggest cities in Tajikistan and celebrated its 2700th birthday in 2006.
Overnight: Kulob | Breakfast
Iskanderkul Lake
Kulob - Iskanderkul Lake. We have a scenic drive today past the Nurek Reservoir on the rushing Vakhsh River. We then arrive at the shore of Iskanderkul Lake.
The triangular lake is fed by glaciers and the rugged mountains on all sides of the lake are a beautiful site to see. Iskander is the Persian pronunciation of Alexander, and the lake is named after Alexander the Great. A large swathe of the surrounding area is an important nature reserve and you're sure to spot some birdlife as we set up our wild camp close by.
Overnight: Iskanderkul Lake | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trekking in the Fann Mountains
Iskanderkul Lake - Artuch. Today we begin our three-day trek in the rugged Fann Mountains. We'll leave our overland truck behind and take jeeps up to the small village of Artuch, the starting point for our trek. There's time to explore the village and meet the local villagers. You can also enjoy a two hour hike to the beautiful Chukurak Lake.
Please note: If you do not wish to trek, an alternative option can be arranged in advance through your sales agent. Due to availability and restrictions this must be arranged at least 30 days prior to your trip departing.
Overnight: Artuch | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bibijanat Lake
Artuch - Bibijanat Lake. Our donkeys arrive this morning to carry our luggage as we trek. There's a briefing with our mountain guide before we begin trekking towards Bibijanat Lake. The scenery we walk through is simply breathtaking, with tall mountains and lush green forests littered with turquoise lakes. Tonight, we camp on the shore of Bibijanat Lake. (Trekking distance: 14 km).
Overnight: Bibijanat Lake | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Alaudin Lake
Bibijanat Lake - Alaudin Lake. This morning we ascend to 3,860m above sea level to the Alaudin Pass. From the top of the mountain pass we enjoy tremendous panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and shimmering lakes before descending to Alaudin Lake where we camp for the night. (Trekking distance: 10 km).
Overnight: Alaudin Lake | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Alaudin Lake - Dushanbe. Our trek comes to an end today and there's some free time after we've packed up camp. Soak up the last of the incredible scenery before we reunite with our overland truck and embark on the last leg of our journey to Dushanbe, the capital city of Tajikistan. The city began as a small village and has now grown to have a population of more than 800,000. Your last night in Tajikistan is free to explore the city.
Overnight: Dushanbe | Breakfast
Today your overland adventure comes to an end. Contact the sales team if you wish to book extra accommodation in Dushanbe to further explore the city.
Is This Trip Right For Me?
Overlanding is not a style of travel that will suit everyone so please carefully read the Trip Notes before selecting this tour and be realistic about your ability and desire to join such a trip. If you're the adventurous type who'd rather spend a night roughing it in the wilderness than luxuriating in a boutique hotel, then overlanding is for you. You just need the right attitude, an open mind, and a desire to participate fully in the trip.
Overland travelling can be demanding and challenging. The pace of the trip can be tiring at times and facilities can be basic. On your trip you'll travel in a purpose-built expedition vehicle on an off-the-beaten-track adventure along rugged roads, sometimes across vast distances and at altitude. You will find the drive times noted on the Trip Notes.
On an overland journey you are more than just a passenger, these are full participation trips and everyone gets involved and pitches in! You will also be expected to erect your own tent and help with camp chores including cooking meals for the group on a rota basis. Like all great adventures, the more you put in the more you'll get out!
The type, variety and standard of accommodation can vary greatly from very basic rooms without electricity or running water to comfortable hotels with good facilities. Generally in hotels most rooms will be twin-share, but some may be triple/quad-share. Hostels and yurts are nearly always multi-share and may be mixed sex. On the Trip Notes you will find more information about the accommodation each night.
The campsites we use range from basic to those with excellent facilities, including swimming pools, restaurants and a bar. On occasions we wild camp with no facilities, which means there are no toilets - just the vast expanse of the great outdoors and a shovel!
Our overland journeys are designed to offer freedom, and many of our routes have a large degree of flexibility rather than a strict hour-by-hour or even day-by-day itinerary. We intend to follow the planned route but exact night stops and inclusions cannot be guaranteed and it sometimes happens that we decide to make a change to our planned itinerary.
Sublime Stans is a very challenging trip for people with a real sense of adventure. There will be long drive days and wild camps. The terrain can be very rough and facilities may be very basic or non existent. The itinerary will also need to be flexible.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates noted with a 'G' are guaranteed to operate. All other departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. Prices shown are per person travelling.Read More
Local payment - $1480pp, paid in USD
Please note that this is payable locally on day 1 of your trip in the currency specified.


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Open for drop-offs only – the Reuse Area remains closed (no shopping at this time).
WLSSD's Materials Recovery Center (MRC) is a facility where residents and businesses can recycle or dispose of many wastes. It is WLSSD's goal to reuse, recycle or recover as much material as possible, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills.
The MRC is a self-service facility. Visitors stop first at the gatehouse where WLSSD staff assesses each load and calculates the fee for services. Visitors then drive to the appropriate recycling, reuse or disposal "station" for each waste and unload their items.
Household garbage, household hazardous waste, leaves or yard waste material
Items that can be reused are placed in the MRC Reuse Area. MRC staff determines whether an item is appropriate for the Reuse Area. MRC customers can take these items (2 daily) at no charge, reducing the need for landfills. The Reuse Area is open during regular MRC hours and closes 15 minutes prior to the close of the MRC; check out the MRC Reuse Area Rules for complete details.
Bagged Garden Green® compost is available for sale at the MRC.
The MRC is a self-service facility designed for use by residents and small commercial customers. Our region is also home to many businesses licensed to collect, haul or recycle general or specialized wastes.


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Here's two little companies Bataleon and Omatic, both doing their own thing, and both with their own technologies. Some might say they're similar, some might say that one is ripping the other off, but truth is both are very different. So where do these two technologies stand when matched up in a battle? Does one outweigh the other in being the better? Here's a breakdown of the differences between Triple Base Technology and Bowed Surface Technology.
Lets start by looking at the obvious, the actual bases. Both give a raise at the contact points, but only Omatics runs tip to tail. This eliminates the transition from flat into a angled base. Triple Base has multiple options on how defined it is and also covers a wider surface than what Omatics is offering. B.S. Technology is maybe an inch to two inches wide with no transition to flat between the feet, think of it being closer to a V while T.B.T is closer to a U when you look at it head on. The other big differentiation is that Omatic actually mills theirs into the core, while Bataleons is pressed in. Does that effect anything? I'll let you decide. For now I'd give this round to Bataleon only because they came out the gate with having a raised base like this.
If you're like me you're all about having reverse camber in your decks. No matter who says Bataleon is a rocker or the originator of the anti-camber revolution it's not either of these, they still utilize a traditional camber in their decks. You still have to load and unload it giving it a different ride entirely. Omatic gives you reverse camber making it more playful and skate inspired. The Bataleon has better pop due to this, but over all the reverse camber makes the board easier to press, ride in pow, and butter your muff. Being that everyone wants a board that's reversed or rockered, I give this round to Omatic.
Going back to the differences in the base definition we have to evaluate which one effects turns more. Both allow for a fluid roll from edge to edge, that's a given. T.B.T has gotten a lot better in recent years, some of the first generations when you would do this you'd feel a slight grip at the transition from flat to where the bevel starts. The new generations have a lesser definition to them, but it's noticeable on certain models. B.S.T is so minimal in both the width of the flat spot and the bevel that you just transition from edge to edge without any catch that I've found so far, also there's no flat spot between the feet so you have a consistent bowed surface. I'd give this round to Omatic for having a non-transitional base.
Overall I give this to Omatic for embracing both a new base and camber theory. Would I rule Bataleon out of making an anti-cambered board with TBT? No, the possibility for them to tweak their camber design is right there and they could definitely step into that genre. What do you guys think, which would you say is better?


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The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM), Rockville, Maryland (Employer) and Chapter 282, National Treasury Employees Union (Union or NTEU) filed a joint request for assistance with the Federal Service Impasses Panel (Panel) to consider a negotiation impasse under the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute (Statute), 5 U.S.C. § 7119.
Following an investigation of the request, which concerns the procedure to be used for allocating offices to bargaining unit employees at CVM's Metro Park North facility, the Panel determined that the matter should be resolved through an Order to Show Cause (OSC). Under this procedure, the Employer was directed to show cause why the Panel should not impose the office selection procedure/formula at CVM that FDA and Chapter 282, NTEU previously agreed would apply at FDA's White Oak Campus. The Employer also was given the opportunity to offer an alternative proposal, and the Union was given the opportunity to rebut the Employer's response to the OSC. The parties were advised further that after considering the entire record the Panel would take whatever action it deems appropriate to resolve the impasse, which may include the issuance of a Decision and Order. The Panel now has considered the entire record.
The FDA is a public health agency charged with safeguarding the health of Americans; specifically, it researches and approves drugs and medical devices for use, and safeguards a major part of the U.S. food supply. The CVM regulates the manufacture and distribution of food additives and drugs that will be given to animals, including animals from which human foods are derived, as well as food additives and drugs for pet (or companion) animals. The Union represents approximately 3,800 employees at FDA, about 300 of whom work at CVM in a variety of professional and non-professional positions, GS-5 through -14. The parties are covered by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that is due to expire on October 1, 2013.
In July 2010, FDA and Chapter 282, NTEU reached a Memorandum of Understanding titled "Office Space Allocation and Office Selection at White Oak Campus" (referred to herein as the White Oak MOU). The purpose of the White Oak MOU was to provide "guidance for allocating office space and for selecting offices at the FDA buildings and facilities on the FDA White Oak Campus." Among other things, the parties agreed that:
Within each functional group bargaining unit employees will select offices in order based on the process described below:
a. The FDA will place bargaining unit employees in rank order based on a score assigned to each employee comprising of the sum of a number of points equal to his/her GS-grade (e.g., GS-13 equals 13 points), plus a number of points equal to his/her number of years of Federal service (as determined by his/her Federal service computation date (SCD) augmented by any military commissioned corps service not already included in the Federal service computation date) and rounded to the nearest year (e.g., 12 years 7 months of service equals 13 points). In the example used above, the result is 26 points.
. . . . .
c. For all moves, in case of a tie, the bargaining unit employee with the earliest Federal service computation date will choose first. If there is still a tie, the bargaining unit employee with the greatest amount of Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) service will choose first. If there is still a tie after that, the bargaining unit employee with the greatest amount of FDA service will choose first.
. . . . .
f. For all moves, management will not select offices for bargaining unit employees except for employees assigned to an Immediate Office suite and support employees assigned to workstations not located in individual employee offices.
The parties essentially disagree over whether the office selection procedure/formula in the White Oak MOU also should apply to the allocation of offices to bargaining unit employees at CVM.
1. The Employer's Position
The Panel should not implement the White Oak MOU office selection procedure at CVM's Metro Park North facility. Instead, the Employer proposes the adoption of the following wording to resolve the impasse:
Within a functional area, employees with the highest combination of grade plus Federal service computation date are allocated office selection priority, and tie-breakers are determined by years of FDA government service. However, an employee shall never have priority over a higher graded employee who is more than one (1) grade interval above the lower graded employee (for example, a GS-13 could trump a GS-14 if the GS-13 had more years of Federal service, but a GS-12 could not trump a GS-14) unless the lower graded employee is on a career path that ends no less than one (1) grade interval below the higher graded employee.
Imposition of the White Oak MOU office selection procedure/formula at CVM would have a negative impact on the morale of higher graded employees. In this regard, many of CVM's scientists "have very few years of prior federal service and would be passed over [by] administrative personnel for prime office space" if the White Oak MOU process is followed. As a result, these skilled scientists, who are critical to CVM's primary functions in protecting human and animal health, "may seek alternative employment opportunities and/or discourage other highly qualified scientists from seeking employment at CVM." Such positions are classified at a higher grade because they require "considerable education and experience." Thus, employees who perform higher graded duties, have greater responsibilities within the organization, encumber positions that are difficult to recruit and retain, and are most critical to the Agency's success, "should be given priority in obtaining coveted office space."
Furthermore, the parties who agreed to the White Oak MOU never intended it as a "one-size fits all method that would meet the needs of the FDA's varying facilities." Its imposition at CVM would create "an unnecessary precedent that could potentially be applied to all FDA Centers going forward." The space at White Oak, which is a sprawling facility similar to a university campus, is also much different than the space at CVM, "which is more akin to an office park." Consequently, the White Oak Campus has much more flexibility regarding office relocations than CVM, where management would be less likely "to locate an alternative space to accommodate the employee's needs and ameliorate potential morale issues." Moreover, although the parties' previous CBA contained a procedure/formula for selecting office space, "the parties elected to forego such a provision" in their current CBA. Applying the White Oak MOU to CVM would "defeat[] the intent of the parties' new CBA which provides the opportunity for tailored and customized procedures that are distinct from one another and determined on a case-by-case basis." Finally, while the FDA has not contested the validity of the White Oak MOU, "it is not widely viewed as a model agreement within" DHHS. In fact, the largest of the FDA Centers located at White Oak, the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), "is no longer following the terms" of the White Oak MOU.
2. The Union's Position
The Panel should impose the White Oak MOU office selection procedure at CVM. Historically, NTEU's interest has been to grant higher priority of office selection to employees with more seniority, while "FDA's interest has been to permit higher graded employees to choose their offices before lower graded employees, regardless of seniority." The government already rewards higher graded employees with higher salaries, so Chapter 282, NTEU "has protected the interest of loyal, long-serving government employees by negotiating non-monetary job benefits for them," including procedures for the selection of office space. The White Oak MOU office selection formula agreed upon by the parties combines both grade and seniority. Because "the formula has worked, and has been a good compromise" that balances the parties' interests, "there is no need for NTEU to compromise further." In addition, the Employer's argument that implementing the White Oak MOU at CVM would have a detrimental effect on the morale of higher graded employees should be rejected. In this regard, paragraph f of the White Oak MOU "already guards against" the "doomsday scenario" the Employer envisions by specifically exempting support employees from the office selection procedure. Finally, the Employer's claim that CDER is no longer following the terms of the White Oak MOU "is misleading and deceptive" by implying that CDER no longer wishes to use the formula combining SCD and grade. When CDER gave notice that it wanted to reopen the White Oak MOU for negotiations, NTEU declined and filed a grievance on the basis that a subordinate agency "does not have the power to terminate" an MOU that was negotiated with FDA at the Agency level. The parties are "likely to settle this matter and leave the Grade + SCD method as is." In the meantime, "CDER has continued to use Grade + SCD for office moves."
Having carefully considered the parties' submissions in response to the OSC, we conclude that the Employer has failed to demonstrate why the office selection procedure/formula previously agreed upon at the White Oak Campus should not be imposed at CVM. The Employer's primary concern, which its alternative proposal attempts to address, is that adoption of the formula may result in CVM scientists seeking alternative employment and/or discouraging other scientists from seeking employment at CVM. Its concern, however, is unsupported by evidence that application of the formula to bargaining unit employees at the White Oak Campus since July 2010, including to higher graded employees, has resulted in any of the adverse impact it forecasts at CVM. Nor was specific factual information offered to substantiate its conjectures about the potential impact at CVM. The lack of evidence about White Oak may be because the White Oak MOU exempts support employees assigned to workstations not located in individual employee offices from the office selection procedure, as the Union points out, or for some other reason. We are not suggesting that office assignment procedures have to be uniform across locations but the burden was on the Employer to make its case for a different arrangement in the current circumstances. Our conclusion is that the Employer has not shown cause as to why the White Oak MOU office selection procedure/formula should not be imposed at CVM. Accordingly, we shall order its adoption to resolve the parties' impasse.
Pursuant to the authority vested in it by the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute, 5 U.S.C. § 7119, and because of the failure of the parties to resolve their impasse during the course of proceedings instituted pursuant to the Panel's regulations, 5 C.F.R. § 2471.6(a)(2), the Federal Service Impasses Panel under § 2471.11(a) of its regulations hereby orders the following:
The parties shall adopt the office selection procedure/formula agreed upon for the White Oak Campus in July 2010 at the Center for Veterinary Medicine's Metro Park North facility.
By direction of the Panel.
H. Joseph Schimansky
Executive Director
May 4, 2012
Washington, D.C.


text:
Caspian Lake Milfoil Attendants
Summer is approaching, and so is our need to be vigilant about aquatic invasive species, including Eurasian milfoil, coming to Caspian Lake. The Town of Greensboro is currently looking for high school or college-aged individuals to serve as boat inspectors and milfoil educators at the Caspian Lake Beach this summer. Avid boaters are often early-risers, so the position will require early morning shifts and will run from Memorial Day to Labor Day, although applicants need not be available the entire period. New hires will be required to attend a training on Saturday, June 4th, in Fairlee, Vermont. Interested candidates should contact Andy Dales, Greensboro's Milfoil Program Supervisor at email@example.com, or Valdine Hall, Greensboro's Town Clerk, at firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
It's 4:44pm on Friday here in Michigan. My dad is sleeping right now in the Critical Care Unit. Tomorrow he will be moved to Hospice a couple floors up. This morning the doctor filled us in on what happened. It seems that he had pneumonia that helped feed a blood infection and bacteria in the blood. Coupled with an already weak heart and kidney, the infection began to weaken his liver as well and fluid was building up around his lungs making it difficult to breathe. They put him on a ventilator yesterday and he continued to breathe with its support into the morning.
My mom, sister, and I were able to talk to him this morning. We knew his wishes were never to be on life support and he confirmed that decision to us as well. We were able to spend 30-40 minutes while they started a morphine drip just talking to him and letting friends and family talk to him as we held a cell phone to his ear.
After everyone was able to share their thoughts, we stepped out of the room and they removed all life support. The doctors had expected him to expire shortly thereafter, but he began to breathe on his own and was able to even whisper to us… sometimes quoting Scripture to us. Now we're going on 7 hours later and he's still breathing on his own, but he's a little less responsive. His pulse and blood pressure are steady and he's snoring away as he always has.
We're not sure what to anticipate at this point. With multiple organ failure, (barring a miracle) it really is just a matter of "when" at this point. I think we all feel a peace about this… a "peace that passes all understanding" He certainly has prepped us for this moment over the last year and he is ready to meet his Savior face to face. Now we wait and see. Thanks for all your prayers – we can feel the strength of God extended through them.


text:
Ethnic Clashes in Kyrgyzstan
The violence in Kyrgyzstan, the worst in two decades, has triggered a huge wave of refugees at the Kyrgyz Uzbek border. Jon Decker reports. Courtesy of Reuters.
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
good ... tht ethnic clashes are continuing in Kurdistan ... more than forty people seriously injured in Southern Kurdistan ... were flown to the capital Bishkek for medical treatment ... medical staff said the injured were mainly suffering from bullet wounds ... more than two hundred people were killed one week ago in ethnic clashes ... between Curtis and Uzbeks in the southern regions of Oce and Delilah by ... the violence the worst in two decades ... triggered a huge wave of refugees ... at the Curtis Uzbek border ... the Welker just as acting president ... Rosanna Azzam a bus travel to the strife torn city of Oce and pledged to rebuild the region ... to allow refugees to return there ... Wells said ... I can't even hear first hand what people are going ... to ... say to them that will wear ... get to the back right ... we want to give them the ... charity will we built this idea I'm reading of refugees act ... will do everything to make sure this happens in ... Kurdistan has been in turmoil since a row folded April toppled President curving back by KF and brought in the interim government to power ... UN officials said Friday ... an estimated one billion people ... have been affected by the violent conflict ... and eat food and other pizza plots ... John decker ... Reuters ...


text:
LocalMemphis.com is reporting that WWE Hall of Famer Jerry "The King" Lawler and Lauryn McBride (Lawler's fiance) were both released on bail from the Shelby County Jail in Memphis, Tennessee this afternoon.
Both Lawler and McBride were booked into the Shelby County Jail at 1:00 a.m. on Friday morning after getting into a domestic dispute at Lawler's home in East Memphis. Lawler spoke with WMC Action News 5 disputing claims over his arrest in a police statement.
As reported earlier, Lawler and McBride have a scheduled court date this Monday morning at 8:30 a.m. local time. Lawler has been "suspended indefinitely" by WWE following his arrest citing "zero tolerance for matters involving domestic violence."


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With the site redesign I figure it's a good time to run through the WordPress plugins that I use. I try to keep the number of plugins to a minimum, looking for simplicity. With my interim design attempt I was up to 27 plugins (up from 15), which is one of the things I didn't like. Even though I've added some new plugins, I also eliminated some so I'm still at 15 plugins after the site redesign.
For compatibility information – I'm using WordPress 3.2 and running the the Catalyst Theme.
Tried and True
These a plugins I've been using for a log time and they've served me well.
Akismet – an anti-spam plugin that shipped with WordPress (at least it did when I started). I haven't had a need to switch.
Contextual Related Posts – This displays the related articles at the bottom of my posts. I've looked at other but this seems to give me the best results.
Fast Secure Contact Form – The provides the contact form on my About page. The plugin is actively updated and has features well beyond my needs for a simple contact form.
FeedBurner Feedsmith – I've used Feedburner since before it was acquired by Google. This plugin redirects the site feeds to Feedburner without having to do any coding.
Google XML Sitemaps – A plugin that automatically creates and updates site map files whenever a WordPress post or page is updated. This is one of my "must have" plugins, so much so that I've donated to the author to keep things going.
Hyper Cache – A caching plugin that's server me well over time. I switched to it when a previous plugin had compatibility problems long ago.
No Self Pings – I do a lot of linking within my site and this plugin stops generating trackbacks that link within the site. Prior to this plugin I used to go in and delete them manually.
Ozh' Who Sees Ads – This plugin allows hiding certain elements (usually ads) to regular visitors. A regular visitor can be defined within the plugin.
Redirection – I started using this plugin long ago when I did a major site redesign. In addition to being able to manually set up redirects this plugin will monitor posts & pages for URL changes and automatically add redirects to handle any URL changes.
New Kids on the Block
These plugins are recent additions to my website.
Google Analyticator – I use this plugin to add the code but not track my own visits. The plugin also adds a Google Analytics widget with the last 30 days of stats into the admin panel.
Mint – I used Mint Analytics long ago and decided to give it a try again. Mainly because it puts the site stats on my server under my control. This plugin adds the code to my website. I modified the plugin to ignore my own visits since it doesn't do that out of the box. Ultimately I'll look at including this code directly since the plugin doesn't do anything beyond adding the line of code needed but it was quicker to go the plugin route.
Official StatCounter Plugin – Another analytics service I'm trying out is StatCounter and this plugin adds their code to my site. It can also be set to ignore my own visits. The plugin also integrates the StatCounter website into the WordPress admin panel.
Recently Popular and WordPress Popular Posts both keep track of which posts get viewed the most over time. Since both require collecting stats over time I'll run them in parallel for awhile and will eventually pick one.
WPtouch Pro – This is a paid plugin that provides the mobile version of my website.
Ready When Needed
These two plugins aren't needed all the time so stay deactivated until needed.
Regenerate Thumbnails – A huge time saver during the redesign, Allowed me to re-size all the thumbnails in about 10 minutes.
Simple "Coming soon" And "Under construction" – A plugin that allows logged on users through but shows a Coming Soon or Maintenance page to all others. Useful when doing maintenance or firs building the site.
Any plugins you'd recommend in place of these, or in addition to them?


text:
WHILE at the fort the colonel in command complained at the non-
arrival of a drove of Government horses, as he was anxious to make a
raid into the Indian country, and Buffalo Bill volunteered to go and
hurry the cattle on.
He had been gone but a few hours from the fort when he crossed a
trail which he knew to have been made by a large Indian village on the
Cautiously he followed it, and just at sunset came insight of the
amp, pitched at the head of a valley, and saw below a large herd of
horses grazing.
To return to the fort for aid he knew would take too long, so he
determined to make an attempt to capture the herd himself and, with his
field-glass carefully reconnoitered the surroundings as long as it was
He saw that the nature of the valley was such that the herd could
only escape by two ways, one through the Indian village and the other at
the lower end where he had observed four warriors placed as a guard and
"That is my quartette," he said to himself, and mounting Brigham
he began to make his way around to the lower end of the valley.
After an hour's ride he gained the desired point, and then set
down to work.
Carrying with him in case of need a complete Indian costume, he
was not long in rigging himself up in it and painting his face.
Then he left Brigham in a canyon near by and cautiously
approached the entrance to the valley, which was not more than two
hundred yards wide at this point.
Peering through the darkness he saw the four dark objects, about
equal distances apart, which he knew were the ponies of the four
warriors on guard, and that they were lying down near in the grass he
felt confident.
Getting past the line of herders he boldly advanced toward the
one nearest the hill on the left, and knew he would be taken for some
chief coming from the village and accordingly not dreaded.
It was just as he had expected: the Indian herder saw him coming
directly from the village, as he believed and did not even rise from the
grass as Buffalo Bill drew near.
With a word in Sioux Buffalo Bill advanced and suddenly threw
himself upon the prostrate warrior.
There was a short struggle, but no cry, as the scout's hand
grasped the red-skin's throat, and then all was still, the Indian pony
lariated near, not even stopping his grazing.
Throwing the red-skin's blanket over his body, Buffalo Bill moved
away a few paces to where the pony stood, and called to the next herder
in the Sioux tongue to come to him.
The unsuspecting warrior obeyed, and the next instant found
himself in a gripe of iron and a knife blade piercing his heart.
"This is red work, but it is man to man and in a few days the
whole band would make a strike upon the settlements," muttered the scout
as he moved slowly toward the position his enemy had left at his call.
As he reached the spot he saw the third warrior standing on his
post and boldly walked up to him, when again the same short, fierce,
silent fight followed and Buffalo Bill arose from the ground a victor.
The fourth, and only remaining guard he knew was over under the
shadow of the hill, and thither he went.
Arriving near he did not see him, and looking around suddenly
discovered him asleep at the foot of a tree.
"I'd like to let you sleep, Mr. Red-skin, but you'd wake up at
the wrong time, so you must follow your comrades to the happy hunting
grounds," he muttered as he bent over and seized the throat of the
Indian in his powerful grip.
The warrior was almost a giant in size, and he made a fierce
fight for his life.
But the iron hold on his throat did not relax and at last his
efforts ceased and his grasp upon the scout, which had been so great he
could not use his knife, weakened and there was no more show of
Then not an instant did Buffalo Bill tarry, but went up the
valley, rounded up the herd of horses and quickly drove them away from
the village, in which he knew slept half a thousand warriors.
Slowly he moved the large brute mass, and they went toward the
mouth of the valley and were soon out upon the prairie. Their mounting
Brigham he urged them on until out of hearing of the camp, when he
headed them for the fort.
It was a hard drive and taxed both Brigham and his rider
fearfully; but at last the herd was driven to a good grazing place a few
miles from the fort and Buffalo Bill left them and rode rapidly on, and
just at down reported his valuable capture and that the same horse could
be used in an attack upon the Indian camp.
The colonel at once acted upon his suggestion; the cavalryman
who had no horses, loaded with their saddles, bridles and arms, went at
a quick march to the grazing place of the horses, and ere the day was
three hours old three hundred men were mounted and on the trail for the
red-skin village, while the remainder of the ponies were driven to the
Deprived of the greater part of their horses, the red-skins could
march but slowly; but they were in full retreat when Buffalo Bill led
the command in sight of them, and though the dismounted warriors fought
bravely, they were severely whipped and all their village equipage
captured or destroyed, while instead of attacking the white settlements
as they had intended, they were glad enough to beg for relief.
This gallant act made the name of Buffalo Bill, or Pa-e-has-ka
(Long Hair) as they called him, known to every Indian on the north-west
border, and they regarded him with the greatest terror, while it made
him an idol among the soldiers.


text:
About us
Spices 4 Africa started out
as a retail store in Kempton
Park, Johannesburg in 2008.
We stock a full range of
authentic spices, samoosas,
rotis, frozen soya products,
recipe books and a whole lot
We have now
blossomed into a development
hub for the manufacturing of
a range of spice products
and specialise in a range of
Quick, Easy & Convenient wet
mix spice products. This
concept was introduced by
the owner, Mandy Raman in
2009 to provide a unique yet
simple formula to make
cooking easier. When the
demand for the wet mix
product grew the consumer
wanted more products from
Spices 4 Africa. A range of
dry spice packs was then
introduced into the market.
Spices 4 Africa is a
small business with big
ideas. It uses some of
Gauteng•s biggest expos to
showcase its range of
products including Good Food
& Wine, Taste of Jo•burg and
Grand Designs Live to name a
few. Our aim is to get the
end-user excited about
preparing tasty, wholesome
and healthy meals literally
in minutes in the comfort of
their own homes.
One of the many benefits of
this incredible product is
the fact that a variety of
interesting dishes can be
prepared ranging from an
authentic Indian curry to
roasts, grills, fillings,
toppings and gourmet meals
just to name a few, using
the wet mix spice.
Spices 4 Africa is a BEE Level
Three (3) contributor with
both 100% Black ownership as
well as 100% Female
ownership. It is a
registered member of the
Restaurant Association of
South Africa (RASA) and has
the capacity to supply both
the Retail and Wholesale
Market. All products
manufactured by us are
certified Halaal by the
National Independent Halaal
Trust (NIHT).
As a proudly South African
business Spices 4 Africa•s
reputation is based on the
fundamental belief that in
order for the business to
succeed we need to maintain
integrity, uphold our values
and preserve our moral
standing in society. We
realise that it is only
through hard work,
perseverance, dedication and
a strong ethos on customer
service that our business
will thrive in an
environment that is usually
dominated by larger
read more
Website developed by:


text:
I watched The Beguiled (1971) the evening before I went to Sofia Coppola's remake, presented as part of the film festival Les Films de Cannes à Bucarest – already at its 8th edition, the event brings each fall to Bucharest the best films that premiered and won prizes earlier the same year at Cannes, along with previous winners.
I didn't even want to consider going to see the remake without having viewed the original. Let me be clear. I almost never watch a remake, and if I do, I never watch it before seeing the original version. And I wouldn't have gone to see Sofia Coppola's The Beguiled at all if she had not won the Palme d'Or for directing. Why did she win the prize, anyway? It's the question I've kept asking myself since I watched it.
But let's start with Don Siegel's movie. I was immediately won over by it, not in the least thanks to Clint Eastwood's role as Union soldier John McBurney, too, which is among his best (and most atypical) roles. It is a dark psychological thriller with an underlying tension that you feel from the very beginning to the very end of the film, and the characters are beautifully built up – the great cast and their performances are largely responsible for the well-rounded characters. Each one of them seems to have something to hide or an ulterior motive, adding to the suspense – McBurney, wounded in a battle during the Civil War, is found by a little girl and brought to the seminary for young ladies in the Confederate South where she lives, and after he is initially kept under watch and locked in the school's music room, he starts to bond with each of the women in the house.
Siegel's film is placed entirely at an isolated girls' school, but the weariness and ruination of the war are depicted through period photographs at the beginning of the movie. And the war permeates the entire film, through the conversations of the characters, as well as through the occasional passings-through of the soldiers. Oh, right, and in the 1971 film, there is also a slave, Hallie (Mae Mercer), with whom McBurney seeks common cause, saying: "You and I ought to be friends. We're both kind of prisoners here." Mae Mercer's moments are very powerful, just as Clint's. In other words, Don Siegel's film is realistic, has a story to tell, and a heavy word at that. The over-all effect is startling, beguiling; the film stays with you.
Now, on to Coppola's version. I would lie if I said I didn't like anything at all about it. It has beautiful cinematography and great light, but this works both in its favour and against it. Sure, it's beautiful to look at, but it looks more like a fairy tale than like a story taking place during the war. It just doesn't make sense. I also liked the director's choice not to use a score almost at all, and, in turn, relying on the natural sounds, which amplifies the feeling of isolation of the characters. But that's about it I'm afraid.
All performances are below those in the 1971 film. There is no trace of Geraldine Page's matriarchal vigour in Nicole Kidman; Colin Farrell lacks Eastwood's malice, duplicity, and, well, yes, charm; Kirsten Dunst fails to transmit the innocent yet impetuous drive of Elizabeth Hartman; and Elle Fanning, unlike Jo Ann Harris, is more of an ethereal being than an expert in flirting. In fact, all dressed in white, Coppola's girls all seem otherworldly, and when they do dress up for a dinner having the corporal as guest of honour, they truly go over the top with fancy clothes and jewellery. In Don Siegel's film, the idea of dressing up (in order to capture the soldier's attention) is merely a little more than a suggestion and resumes only to putting on a brooch to the dresses they wear daily. And, believe me, the impact is much more profound. Siegel's girls go barefoot, working and digging in the garden alongside Hallie so that they can eat. Coppola's are neatly dressed at all times and don't seem to make any effort to provide for their food (there is no sign of the hardships of war), especially that they don't have a slave either to do that for them. Yes, that's right, Coppola got rid of that character, one of the most important and thought-provoking elements of the story. There is not much else related to the war either, so why she wanted to do a remake of this particular story when the effect she's after is clearly far off such theme, I can not understand. In Coppola's film, character and plot are swallowed up in mood and I am afraid that after the film ends, there is nothing you can take away from it.
photo: movie still from The Beguiled (1971) | Malpaso Company, Universal Pictures


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Price: $6.75
Quantity: 1 available
Book Condition: Very Good+
8vo - 21 x 13.5 cm.; 220 pp. "A true-life account of how the author . . . . dealt with the decisions and devastations of caring for elderly parents . . ." Told from a Christian perspective. Bowling has written two other books on life issues. The covers show some light general wear.
Title: Honor Thy Father and Mother: Caring for Aging Parents.
Categories: Religion / Inspiration, Social Sciences,
Publisher: Lima, Ohio, Fairway Press: 1998
ISBN Number: 0788009958
ISBN Number 13: 9780788009952
Binding: Softcover
Book Condition: Very Good+
Item: 1.00 Item
Seller ID: 11868
Keywords: Lynn Carol Bowling; Health Care; Aged; Aging; Parents; Family; Caregiver Christian Family Palliative Care Nursing


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How Should Companies Communicate Well With Their Stakeholders?
Rising globalization and competition in the corporate sector mean that good stakeholder relations are a pillar on which a profitable business should be built. Stakeholders refer to all those internal and external parties who have interest or concern on the business. They include employees, creditors, bankers, shareholders and general consumers. Thriving businesses recognize the importance of seeking and incorporating the input of these stakeholders. Managers and executives often hold the duty of corporate communication to stakeholders.
Stakeholder Categorization
Categorize the shareholders according to the extent to which they are affected by the actions and decisions of the company. If stakeholders are directly affected by company decisions, group them under primary stakeholders. This group includes shareholders and employees. Secondary stakeholders are those individuals or institutions indirectly affected by the company's actions. In this group, include the government and the local community. Prioritizing stakeholders ensures that you adjust communication to suit the different stakeholder groups.
Primary Stakeholders
An important element of good communication is to know the target to which you wish to convey information. Primary stakeholders require information concerning the company's stock performance, financial statements and planned investments. Send information of this nature promptly while exercising confidentiality. Use channels such as fax or mail.
Secondary Stakeholders
Secondary shareholders require less sensitive and nontrivial information, such as information on social welfare programs that your firm intends to undertake. Send this information through conventional channels such as the company's website or email. Ensure that the information is clear and easily understood.
Provide Consistent Messages
Forward all the latest and relevant information that has a significant impact on the company to the stakeholders. This ensures that you keep them informed of timely issues within the company and the external environment. Stakeholders value companies that provide them with the latest information as it enables them to make calculated decisions concerning their interests in the firm.
Plan for Problems
Prepare a crisis management plan to manage communications with stakeholders in unexpected situations. A crisis management plan also helps you contain information that may have negative repercussions for the company if leaked to the wrong persons. The company should also use multiple channels for communicating with shareholders to minimize reliance on one channel.
- Heads of Medicines Agencies; Section 3 (i) Stakeholders
- International Waters Learning Exchange and Resources Network: Stakeholder Analysis
- Canari Guidelines Series; Guidelines for Stakeholder Identification and Analysis; Yves Renard; 2004
- Northern Illinois University; Crisis Communication Plan; Sandra K. Clawson Freeo
Photo Credits
- Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images


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Bruce Ivins sent samples of RMR-1029 to both Battelle and Dugway. Practically all of the science underlying Amerithrax now being reviewed by the National Academy of Sciences is about matching the genetic fingerprint of the attack anthrax to that of RMR-1029. Given that both Battelle and Dugway had RMR-1029, Battelle and Dugway are no less incriminated than Bruce Ivins by the science underlying Amerithrax.I posted the following comment at ICH:
That the FBI has engaged in cover-up in its Amerithrax investigation is readily apparent. This memorandum addresses the urgent matter of what it is that is being covered up...
Great work, Barry. These anthrax attacks really have demonstrated a most extraordinary level of official incompetence on multiple levels, including the FBI's bungled attempts to pretend to be mounting a serious investigation. If they are going to lie to us, they should at least TRY to make the lies semi-plausible.
More importantly, the fact that nobody in Washington DC or the US media is prepared to mount a ruthless exposure of these anthrax lies tells us everything we need to know about the USA today. Look at the simple logic:
1. The anthrax attacks were an inside job.
2. The FBI and the Bush administration covered up the truth.
3. The Obama administration is not interested in further investigations, even though two top Democrats were targetted.
4. The US military-industrial complex is now as powerful as, or more powerful than, both major parties in the US government. Effectively, it controls the government.
5. The US military-industrial complex and major political parties are prepared to engineer false reasons for more wars, including targetting US citizens.
Horrifying stuff, but unarguably TRUE!


text: From the review: "The Crimson Map Pack is a solid addition to Halo 4's multiplayer map lineup. The three maps included provide a nice variation in style and size as well as preferred game types for each. Although they are quality additions, none of them pack that special feeling that will make them an "instant classic" for the series. "


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North east mp Alan Campbell is backing a group of residents in their fight against a mobile phone mast near their homes.
The Tynemouth politician says he shares worries over plans for telecommunications equipment and a flagpole antenna to be built in Norham Road, Whitley Bay.
Vodafone has submitted a planning application to put the equipment on the roof of Whitley Bay Telephone Exchange.
People living nearby claim that their health could be put at risk and thousands of pounds could wiped off the value of their homes if it goes ahead.
Mr Campbell said: "I fully support the residents who are against this mast. It will be unsightly and I certainly think there are better places for it to go.
"I am also concerned about the health aspects of telecommunication masts. Although the site is on the edge of the town centre, it is primarily a residential area and I understand residents' concerns that it is not the right place.
"We are all working hard to see the regeneration of Whitley Bay but a mast will not add anything to the area."


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A magnetized trio of long-wear, light-as-air makeup sticks curated by skin tone, with two Match Stix Matte Skinsticks to conceal and contour, and one Match Stix Shimmer Skinstick to highlight.
With Match Stix Trios, take your complexion to the next level without the guesswork. Our pre-bundled sets make it easy to conceal, contour, and highlight on repeat. These light-as-air makeup sticks are expertly curated—and magnetize together—so you're always ready for anything..
Each set comes with two Match Stix MATTE Skinsticks (conceal, contour), and one Match Stix SHIMMER Skinstick (highlight) —all of which are weightless, easy to blend, and stay put. The cream-to-powder formulas are so seamless, it's impossible to tell where skin ends and makeup begins. They're buildable and LIVE to be layered in a range of combos that light up all skin tones.
With a magnetic physical attraction, MATTE and SHIMMER Skinsticks click to each other, uniting for the total no-brainer, skin-defining package that's always at your beck and call.
What it is formulated WITHOUT :
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates
"I wanted to create a product that would be flexible, to give you your concealer, your contour, and your highlight. Match Stix lets you choose your best matches, and best of all, they're magnetic, so they click together and are easy to find in your bag. Match Stix Trios were customized to make it easy when doing your makeup: there are three steps and they're all in here."—Rihanna, Brand Founder
Fenty Beauty is 100% cruelty free.
How to Use :
- Swipe Match Stix onto skin and blend.
- For the ultimate blending on the fly, pair with Portable Contour & Concealer Brush and Portable Highlighter Brush (sold separately).
- Artistry pro tip: for seamless, buildable coverage, use your fingers to warm Match Stix on the back of your hand before tapping onto skin.


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Our society continues to be obsessed with body image and body shaming. Young girls and boys are placed at a disadvantage if they feel they do not measure up, and often feel they have to conform to societies "ideal" body shape.
Authors Carolyn Costin and Gwen Schubert Grabb write that their book, 8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder can be useful for anyone who has self-defeating or destructive food- or weight-related behaviors. Readers do not need to have a formal eating disorder diagnosis to benefit from the workbook.
"Everyone's journey of healing and recovery is unique," write Costin and Schubert Grabb.
The authors begin by emphasizing that readers should not compare their recovery successes or failures against those of another person. Recovery is not a linear journey; it will include setbacks and triumphs. They also write that knowing what to do is the easy part, it's getting it done that takes some doing.
The workbook format allows for easy-to-do assignments, and the chapters are comprehensive and tightly organized. The assignments and activities are designed to focus on increasing skills, self-awareness, and self-compassion which ultimately may lead to behavior change and recovery.
According to the authors, the more an individual feels in control of the process, the more beneficial it will be. They do caution, however, that in addition to using the workbook, readers who have been given an eating disorder diagnosis should also incorporate professional help into their recovery.
The workbook incorporates many personal accounts from people who have been or are still on their recovery journey, which provide useful anecdotes of personal struggles, insights and encouragement. What is especially impactful is that the authors have struggled with their own eating disorders, and share their challenges, setbacks, and successes openly with the readers.
One assignment, which deals with identifying difficult feelings, instructs the reader to read the list of feeling words—which include things like failure, shame, hurt, powerless and success—and to check off the feelings that they may find particularly difficult to deal with.
The reader is then encouraged to take two words from the checked list and explore each in more depth through a series of specific questions. This exercise is designed to help the reader to recognize, understand, accept and handle feelings that challenge them. By facing and embracing the feelings and accompanying thoughts, the reader is more equipped to let them go.
The workbook also includes optional journal entries that readers can complete.
Each chapter contains one of the eight keys to recovery, and explores the path to addressing eating behaviors in depth. Each key addresses a separate aspect of recovery, and provides extensive information, resources and activities to encourage and challenge the reader.
For example, the third key, which is entitled "It's Not About the Food," presents information and assignments that increase a reader's awareness and understanding of what may have caused or contributed to their eating disorder. This chapter explores the psychological issues, biological vulnerabilities, relationships, and life experiences that may help the reader address their issues.
This workbook is a must-have on the bookshelf and is a great resource for doctors, clinicians, group therapy facilitators, individuals and family members who may have a loved one struggling with an eating disorder.
8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder Workbook
Carolyn Costin and Gwen Schubert Grabb
W.W. Norton & Company
March 2017
Softcover, 288 pages


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Our incredible clients & their fitness journeys
Personal Stories
My trainer is exactly what I wanted in a PT: on time and very professional. He always listens to what I say/want and then makes suggestions, he also explains to me why he makes these suggestions rather than just getting me to do something. He always makes sure that I am doing my exercises properly, i.e. posture etc. Training with him over the last two months has allowed me to strengthen my running and the pain in my knees has reduced so much. I really enjoy training, we can have a joke and be serious at the same time, and this is the balance I needed. Thank you again for the service *
Me and my partner are using MotivatePT for different reasons but we are both equally happy! I had a 2 different pregnancy trainers and they were both amazing. Both girls paid attention to my pregnancy health and made my sessions interesting. My partner has a trainer to get him in good shape and he someone who listens to what you require and nicely adapts to it. We both like that we can have our sessions in time and location that works for us. Hannah from the office is amazing as well. She always quickly deal with all my enquiries and questions! In overall, I can't recommend MotivatePT enough! *
I started training 2-3 times a week only a month ago, and I am feeling like I have made really amazing progress. I have more energy, and feel stronger, fitter, more powerful and I feel I am gaining strength after every session. My trainer Harold always comes with all the equipment we need to have a session tailored towards my needs, and as a busy mum I really value the convenience of having him come to meet me rather than dragging myself out to the gym. I have dropped a dress size, but more importantly, I find myself really looking forward to my sessions, even when they exhaust me. *
With our busy work schedules, we were finding it hard to fit exercise into our lives. Everyday there was a different excuse and we were starting to feel lethargic and unhealthy. Since finding MotivatePT, our lives have transformed. We were matched with the perfect trainer who took the time to understand what we wanted. He meets us twice a week and devised a plan to match both our needs, making it fun and enjoyable. We feel fitter, happier and more confident – and we've even started to look forward to exercise! I couldn't recommend them highly enough. *
As soon as I had my first taster session I knew I'd stick with it as the one to one training was addictive! The diverse range of exercises gives you a chance to try everything and not knowing what's lined up for your next session keeps it interesting! Aside from the exercise the meal plan and nutritional side of getting fit is completely tailored to you as an individual and keeps you on track when you're not training. *
I am really enjoying my sessions with my trainer Hilary, she's fantastic; she motivates and encourages me to push myself which is exactly what I needed. I am seeing some definite improvements in my health and my confidence has skyrocketed, I'm really excited to be making such great progress. I can see myself sticking with MotivaetPT for a long time, setting new and more exciting goals for the future – don't know what I would've done without her. Thank you for sending her my way! *
Being busy with work and family life I was finding it hard to find the time to do any form of exercise. I contacted MotivatePT and spoke with Hannah who has been so lovely from the minute I spoke with her. She matched me with the personal trainer for my needs and had my first taster session. I have since enjoyed every session and the trainer is very accommodating very friendly and also pushes you to go that little bit further. I noticed straight away that I felt I had more energy and feel like I am getting stronger week by week. I always look forward to the next session even if I am tired from the day at work. *
I'm feeling fitter, stronger and full of life! Not bad for a female in her mid-40's who was out of shape and condition! Then I approached MotivatePT– what a difference my personal trainer has made! First class trainer, he listens, he motivates, he inspires and sometimes he's even funny. Everything you want in a Personal Trainer. *
Having trained for years i knew there was something more required to break my fitness plateau, MotivatePT was the key! I reduced my body fat and now I'm more focused, committed to getting fitter. I know i could not have done it without MotivatePT. I would have no hesitation in recommending MotivatePT to anyone who has tried to lose weight before and struggled or just need a boost to get fitter. The guidance, support and motivation they offer is second to none. *
MotivatePT picked somebody who was very well matched with my personality. I was impressed with their processes and the time they took to make sure I was happy. The PT himself was great and he looked at the wider picture in terms of health and eating, and this was particularly transformational. The sessions weren't just the usual exercise class. My trainer did a lot of the session with me, motivating me constantly and correcting form to avoid injury. I have now recommended them to my company also. *
I decided to go with MotivatePT as I was impressed with not only the experience and knowledge of the trainer, but also his confidence and reassuring way he laid out a plan of how best I could achieve my goals. I definitely got the 'weight loss bug' just a few sessions in when I started to notice results. The sessions offered were often intense but always very enjoyable. After 30 sessions I have lost 2 stone and now feel that I have the skills and knowledge to maintain a healthy lifestyle. *
* Results may vary based on each member's physical health, diet and exercise, and are not intended to represent or guarantee that anyone will achieve the same or similar results.
Company Stories
Once a week it is so nice to get out of the office and exercise – it relieves stress and helps motivate me in the office. I think the most important part is the team building that has developed. I have found connections with folks from the office I would likely have never had the same interaction with otherwise. There has been a bond that forms, that positively impacts work. *
I enjoy having a dynamic and fun routine that I can do at lunch time and having a break from work to keep me healthy and fit. Fitness is important because it makes me feel good, more concentrated and active…It also provides a healthy activity to share with colleagues, and promotes well-being within the company. *
Felt energised for the day and more awake than if I'd woken up an hour later and drunk a large costa with a triple shot. Very enjoyable and super glad we'd done it once we were back in the office. A good level of fun and well balanced so everyone could take part with different levels of fitness. *
Lettie, our MotivatePT Trainer was very popular and kept us all motivated whilst also keeping the class fun. She catered exercises to our needs depending on injuries or ability. Shem who also trained us from MotivatePT, had a great energy and was really good at pushing us to our limit (in a good way!) *
A huge thank you to MotivatePT and a special mention to Sonny & Aaron who had excellent customer service skills and went that extra mile to make everyone feel included. *
Our trainer was super friendly, entertaining and seems to know his stuff! I left the session feeling refreshed. *
MotivatePT are amazing – they deliver high energy high impact training sessions with great personal service. They can get you up and exercising anywhere and make sure you understand how to get the most out of your body. I would highly recommend them.
* Results may vary based on each member's physical health, diet and exercise, and are not intended to represent or guarantee that anyone will achieve the same or similar results.


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Robert "Bob" Donner, 93, Osage
Robert "Bob" Donner, age 93, of Osage, died Sunday, August 20, 2017, at his home in Osage.
Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, August 23, 2017, at The Columbus Club in Osage with Father Raymond Burkle officiating. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Visitation will be from
5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home in Osage with a KC rosary at 7:00 p.m.
Bob was born July 6, 1924, in Osage, Iowa, the son of Jesse and Margaret (Klaes) Donner. He graduated from
Osage High School in 1941. He married Marie Ginder on June 25, 1946, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Meyer, Iowa. Bob worked as a core maker at White Farm for 35 years and was in construction for 20 years. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage. He was also a member of the Holy Name Society, the Knights of Columbus and the Osage Volunteer Fire Department. He enjoyed playing cards and making model airplanes. Bob was an avid cribbage player, always up for a game; he competed in many cribbage tournaments. He was always ready with a smile and hug.
Bob is survived by his wife, Marie Donner of Osage; his children, Diana Shonrock of Ames, Sue Jones of Zionsville, Indiana, Debra (Glen) Franck of Story City, Tom (Kay) Donner of Nevada, Roberta (Don) Duenow of Newnan, Georgia, Vicki (Frank) Haaland of Waverly, Dan (Lynette) Donner of Urbandale, Steve Donner of Kansas City, Missouri; 20 grandchildren; and 31 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Katherine Donner and Frederick Donner; granddaughter, Amanda Donner; and son-in-law Bill Shonrock.
Information available and condolences accepted at www.champion-bucheitfuneralhome.com
Champion – Bucheit Funeral Home, Osage, 641-732-3706


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Most people, who were familiar with the volumes of scientific literature that demonstrates both the safety and efficacy of ephedra, have been puzzled why the FDA took the position to ban this highly effective diet aid. In fact, the FDA's rationale was so flawed that most could not even comprehend it. The FDA's stance is a follows: 1. ephedra and pseudoephedrine, as OTC drugs, are safe and effective for their intended uses – asthma and as a decongestant. Both have been deemed safe for over 50 years and have had trillions of does sold. 2. Ephedra, as a weight loss aid, is unsafe and cannot be used at any dosage. The FDA says the risks outweigh the rewards in regard to ephedrine alkaloids. How can the same compound be safe, as a drug, and allowed to be sold, and the same compound, as a dietary supplement, be banned? I'll tell you why the pharmaceutical giants pull the FDA's strings like a puppet. No other explanation makes sense. This warped, two faced rationale and the FDA's subsequent actions to enforce its misaligned agenda demonstrates that the FDA's believes it oversees a public lacking in the intelligence that it operates in complete autonomy from the authority of the Federal Judiciary, and that the separation of powers doctrine of the U.S. Constitution is a fantasy.
Although it was clear to me that the FDA was serving, first and foremost, the needs of the pharmaceutical industry over those of the American public, it wasn't until recently that the FDA's special agenda was revealed. I thought maybe the FDA would attempt to make an ephedra plus caffeine synthetic drug combination and market it as an OTC drug. Nothing else made any sense, until the recent announcement of the launch of Alli by Glaxo Smith Kline (Glaxo). What is Alli you may? Alli is an OTC, reduced dose version of Xenical, being launched without a prescription. Roche and Glaxo have partnered to promote the weight loss medication Xenical in the United States. They began talks a few years back about a partnership to much an OTC version of Xenical, and they finalized an agreement in July 2004 for $100 million in which Glaxo acquired the nonprescription marketing rights from Roche,. So, while many in the dietary supplement industy and consuming public may have believed that he FDA was acting out of concern for the safety of Americans by banning ephedra, the real truth was that it was creating an unfair playing field for Alli to enter the marketplace. Glaxo is know for its stable of OTC products, susch as Nicorette, NicoDerm CQ, Abreve, Aquafresh, Sensodyne, and Turns, to name a few. Glaxo's OTC sales force is one of the strongest in the industry, which will help Alli be competitive in a challenging market. Orlistat is the main ingredient in Alli blocks fat absorption from the food we eat.
Check out legal ephedra diet pills Lipodrene, Stimerex ES, Metabodrene, Hydroxyslim, Megadrine, and ECA Xtreme


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NEVER punish your dog for coming back to you.
Picture a typical scene. You're out walking your dog in the local park and he runs off to play with another dog he's just spotted. You call him back but he's having a great time and ignores you. You call again - this time much louder than before.
Eventually you resort to screaming and the dog finally gives in and comes back to you. This is the most critical time. You're feeling angry, utterly humiliated and revengeful - so you scream at the dog and maybe even beat him. This is a big mistake. Difficult though it may be, if you could bring yourself to give the dog an enthusiastic welcome (and try to make it as genuine as possible) the dog's much more likely to come back sooner next time isn't it?
By punishing the dog when he's just returned to you, all you're doing is confusing the poor creature. From his point of view, he had a good lark with his mate and then when he did what you asked (came back to you) he was severely punished...
What's he supposed to do next time - come back to you and get beaten again?


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The Faculty of Humanities is the largest humanities faculty in Norway. Here you can work with some of Europe's best researchers within the field of humanities and participate in exciting research projects.
Resources and tools
For All PhD Candidates
For PhD candidates employed at HF
If you are employed as a research fellow at the University of Oslo you will find information about topics such as salary, leaves of absence and extensions at the For employees pages (UiO)


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When I came across this recipe for pumpkin cheesecake bars, I knew nothing else would do. Not Starbucks' pumpkin cream cheese loaf nor any other kind of cheesecake or pumpkin bread, not even store-bought pumpkin cheesecake. I craved the homemade version.
I feel better about consuming desserts that I've made myself because I am in control of the ingredients. Which is always important, but especially when there's a growing babe who also gets a piece.
When I went to Trader Joe's and discovered they were out of canned pumpkin but stocked in pumpkin cheesecake itself, I hesitated. Would I forget about the bars? Would I succumb to the store-bought version, inflated with sugar and who knows how many days old and not precisely what I wanted?
Nope, I didn't. (I'll save that for later in the season.) I bought a sugar pie pumpkin and cut it and roasted it and peeled it and pureed it in the food processor. Though time consuming, the end result would be more of what I wanted: fresh pumpkin-y goodness. And even better, I wouldn't have to worry about BPA leeching from the can into my dessert. But God, opening a can would have been so much easier. Sometimes I wonder if convenience has the power to kill us.
Anyways. I modified the recipe to include less processed sugar and more nutrition. In the crust, I replaced the sugar with medjool dates and the flour with coconut flour, ground flaxseed, almond meal and whole wheat flour. In the filling, I used raw turbinado sugar and the flesh of 1 pie pumpkin instead of a 15 ounce can of pumpkin. I doubled the vanilla extract because I felt like it.
Pumpkin Pie Bars
Adapted from Pinchmysalt.com – a sweet food blog so click over!
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 9×13 pan with aluminum foil, leaving enough to hang over the sides of pan. Coat foil with butter or oil.
2/3 cup whole wheat flour (I like white wheat for it's mild flavor)
1/3 cup coconut flour
1/4 cup ground flaxseed
1/4 cup almond meal
6 medjool dates, pitted
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup raw turbinado sugar
flesh of one pie pumpkin (quartered, roasted at 375 until soft, peeled and pureed well)
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
Make the crust: Combine flours, dates, and salt in the bowl of a food processor and pulse to combine. Add butter and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pour crust mixture into prepared pan and press evenly and firmly into the bottom.
Bake crust on the center rack of preheated 350 degree oven for about 15 minutes or until just starting to brown around the edges. Remove from oven and set on wire rack.
Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and raw turbinado sugar until creamy. Add pumpkin, eggs, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice and beat until well combined, scraping sides and bottom of bowl a few times as you go. Pour pumpkin mixture over the pre-baked crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake 25 minutes at 350 degrees. Let cool completely on a wire rack then refrigerate for an hour or until thoroughly chilled. To serve, use the foil to remove the entire dessert, then slice into squares. Leftovers should be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator.
Note: I am not a food photographer nor a food stylist. While I greatly appreciate this art, it eludes me. If you'd like to see a pretty picture of these bars, go here.