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Stone Cold Cool Guilford (Google Maps location) September 8, 2012 The state of Connecticut operates fewer museums than you'd think. There really are just a handful, and many of them rely on partnerships with volunteers (Old New-Gate Prison in East Granby) and/or local historical societies (Prudence Crandall House … [Read more...]
NHL: Henry Whitfield House
CT National Historic Landmark Henry Whitfield House 248 Old Whitfield Street, Guilford You're darn tootin' this is a National Historic Landmark! One of the best, in fact... not just in Connecticut, but in the entire country. Not just because it has housed an excellent museum (since 1899!), but because it … [Read more...]
238. Quinnipiac Dawnland Museum
It Just Dawned on Me... Guilford (Google Maps location) September 8, 2012 At the time of my visit to this little one-man-show museum, I am fairly certain it was a standalone operation that just happened to be located at another museum - The Dudley Farm Museum. These days (2018 and beyond) it certainly still … [Read more...]
Andrew Leete House
L337 H4x0r Andrew Leete House, Guilford September 2012 Now, normally this wouldn't rate enough for CTMQ. But - and this is a big but because I'm not totally sure of the history here - but, when this house is taken with several other sites around Connecticut, it makes sense to be here. That and I drove by once … [Read more...]
Regicide Cellar
No Cell Out Regicide Cellar, Guilford September 2012 Guilford has secrets. Of course, every town has secrets, but Guilford seems to have more than most towns. Granted, Regicide Cellar isn't exactly a super exciting secret, but since you're reading this, it must be at least mildly exciting to you. It's mildly … [Read more...]
236. Edith B. Nettleton Historical Room
The Thorny Issue of What Is and What Is Not a Museum Guilford (Google Maps location) September 8, 2012 Rgarding my title (and ignoring the "nettle"/"thorny" pun), of course this little room at the Guilford Free Library isn't a museum. But I started making note of "local history rooms" at town libraries years … [Read more...]
SCCRWA Trails Intro
SCCRWA, OMG STFU, SRSLY? South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority Trails This page exists because years and years ago I thought that the South Central Regional Council of Governments trail listing was unique in and of itself. It included the RWA trails. I've since grown wiser and realized that the bulk of … [Read more...]
219. Thomas Griswold House
I Want a CTMQ Keeping Society Guilford (Google Maps location) September 18, 2011 Years ago when I started this website and gathered up more and more museums around the state for my big list, I often questioned myself about one thing and one thing only. I knew I could visit them all in due time. I knew I could … [Read more...]
Guilford Agricultural Fair
Guilford Agricultural Fair September 2011 Attended: Sunday Afternoon Parking: $5 Distance to Fair: 12 minute walk down country lane with traffic Cost: $10 for each adult, we lied and said Damian was under 5 so I forget how much kids are. Something Unique: A freaking lemur and a kangaroo Overall rating: … [Read more...]
218. Woodruff Farm Barn Museum
Lots of Wood. Ruff, Ruff Wood Guilford (Google Maps location) September 18, 2011 "How do you possibly find time to go to all these museums?" people often ask. I submit the Woodruff Farm Barn Museum as evidence as to why it's really not all that hard to do. Total time spent in the museum: 3 minutes. Total … [Read more...]


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Why Facebook's New 'Donate' Feature Isn't All That Charitable
…for nothing.
Earlier this month The Big Blue Monster made some changes destined to annoy everyone who organizes a charity or works with nonprofit clients by making it harder for fans to see unpaid posts. This week the company followed that move with the announcement of its new "donate button" feature, which seems generous on its face but probably won't minimize the backlash.
Why? It's a classic case of "If a tree falls in the forest…"
The basic issue is that most charities don't have the money to pay for sponsored posts, which seriously limits the number of people who will see their donate buttons.
While it's good to know that Facebook won't be giving users' email addresses to the charities that accept their donations, the company will be adding those users—and their credit card info—to yet another database. It's for research purposes and revenue, of course.
Here's the first example of the new feature via the American Cancer Society:
Easy peasy. But as we all know, the ACS is a well-funded organization that can certainly afford a sponsored post or two. It's going to be tougher for smaller orgs to make use of this feature without putting it on every post, a move bound to annoy all but the most dedicated fans.
What do we think: will this change help or hinder nonprofits in the long run? And will it be enough to beat back the news feed change backlash?

subset: commoncrawl


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This is according to Skoda Australia director Michael Irmer, who we spoke to this week at the launch of the new Superb flagship model. Irmer admitted the Rapid was not seen as a top priority car, simply because its marketing budget could only stretch so far.
Since its local launch in May 2014, Skoda Australia has sold only 760 Rapids. In 2015, it managed 448 units, which equated to 0.2 per cent share of the small car segment — Australia's biggest-selling by volume.
It was also outsold comprehensively by the Octavia, Fabia and Yeti, and in fact accounted for only around 10 per cent of Skoda Australia's overall sales. With 44 sales in January and February this year, it has declined more than 40 per cent.
"I think with the Rapid, in first-generation, we have not put… we have to prioritise our spend, we prioritise media investment into larger vehicles," Irmer said, noting that it's harder to push your image upmarket from a lower base than vice-versa.
"The reason is we want to establish the brand, we are still a new player, [we have a] blank sheet, and want to be known for the higher end of the market. It has a positive flow down affect on image, it's easier to flow down into the small car segment.
"… Of course we will continue with it, we are half-way way through the life cycle approximately. We will give more emphasis in the future, an increase with the new generation.
"… It's not a massive corporate focus, I'd say that, but it's still an important car and an important segment."
The Skoda Rapid is actually one of the more under-appreciated small cars around. Skoda updated it last year with a range of upgraded engines and cut the starting price to a very cheap $17,990 plus on-roads. It also added a Monte Carlo version.
Add the $1500 Image Pack to regular models or the $1800 Tech Pack to the Monte Carlo, and you'll gain a larger 6.5 inch display with satellite navigation and Skoda's new SmartLink system, which adds connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.


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Head OfficePlot No. 131, 1st Street,
VGP Selva Nagar Extension,
Velachery, Chennai - 600 046.
Phone: +91-44-3123 2320 ~ 22
Agape Welfare Trust provides welfare programs and services to the children, women in need and distress, the handicapped persons, neglected street children, social security for the aged and destitute through the network of residential care homes and non-institutional services. Besides this the Department also provides avenues of self employment to children, women and handicapped and creates awareness amongst general public regarding the welfare measures of the Department.
Agape Orphanage
Learning Center
Nutrition Feeding
Food Service
Cultural Program
Sports Day
Prize Distribution
Eye Camp
Slipper Donation


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WinTools.net Professional 20.0
Suite of tools for increasing MS Windows operating system performance.
What's New
A suite of tools for increasing operating system performance. WinTools.net cleanly removes unwanted software from disk drives and dead references from the Windows registry. WinTools.net puts you in control of the Windows start up process, memory monitoring and gives you the power to customize desktop and system settings to fit your needs. Adds more speed and stability for your connection. Ensures your privacy and keep sensitive information secure. WinTools.net Professional contains tools: Clean Uninstaller, Scan Files, Scan Registry, Start Up, Tweak UI, Net Tweaker, The Privacy...
Clean Uninstaller - This tool is used for both correctly removing software and for monitoring changes made to the hard drive, MS Windows registry and system files during program installations.
Scan Files - This tool is used for periodic cleaning of your hard drive from dead references, junk and obsolete files produced by different software. These files and references remain on the hard disk and increase drive access time.
Scan Registry - This tool is used for periodic cleaning of the MS Windows registry from unused applications remained after uninstallation and from invalid references which decrease system speed and system loading time.
Start Up - This is a startup manager. This tool allows you to monitor, add, remove, enable and/or disable individual startup items. You can also adjust applications initialized during the loading process of the operating system.
Tweak UI - This is a set of additional adjustments related to safety, system capacity and user preferences and which are not included into basic components of MS Windows.
Net Tweaker - The tool is used for speed increasing of data transfer and for greater stability of connection by changing hidden network settings.
The Privacy - This is a kit of tools which ensure your privacy and keep sensitive information secure. It consists of three basic parts: "Objects to Erase", "Invisible Man" and "File Shredder".
What's New:
- full path for "User Temporary Files"
- problem with column size of ScanFls was fixed
- problem with ScnFls "remove" progress bar was fixed
- problem with ScnReg "remove" progress bar was fixed
- delete StartUp item by using DEL key
- "scan folder" algorithm was changed
- "remove files" algorithm was changed
- main algorithm of ScanReg was updated
- names of "Clean Folders" were updated
- new button "Group Policy" was added for MS Tools menu
- some buttons of ScanFls blocked in scan process
- some buttons of ScanReg blocked in scan process
- some algorithms of ScanReg and ScanFls were optimized
- some mistakes of lng-files were fixed


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"We are drowning in information, while starving for wisdom. The world henceforth will be run by synthesizers, people able to put together the right information at the right time, think critically about it, and make important choices wisely." -E.O. Wilson
Information without inspiration is an empty promise. I aim to always leave my audience with at least as much inspiration as information. My presentations are interactive, engaging, and based on an ideal balance of theory and practice.
I am happy to offer both virtual and land-based options for all presentations.
Topics include:
I am happy to offer both virtual and land-based options for all presentations.
Topics include:
- Brain-based Teaching and Learning
- Ready for Your Close-up? Creating Awesome Instructional Videos
- Want to Improve Your Time Management? Start with Stress (Great for students AND staff!)
- Meditation for Beginners (secular style appropriate for workplace and classroom)
- Burned Out? Stress Relief and Your Career
- Goal-Setting (and Getting!) for Educators


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Emergencies a Regular Occurrence at Abortion ShopsSeptember 4th, 2013
Dr. Bryon Calhoun, an OB-GYN at West Virginia University, was recently interviewed by Operation Rescue about the state of health care for women who submit to abortions. He told their reporter that he sees women suffering from botched abortions on a regular basis at the emergency room in Charleston; an average of once a week.
"These people [ post-abortive women] are told to come to our hospital because the abortion clinic providers do not have hospital privileges to care for their patients, so we must treat them as emergency 'drop-ins'," Calhoun said. He adds,
"No other medical providers are allowed to care for patients, have no backup coverage, and then abandon them to the emergency room. … The fantasy of women's reproductive health seems to allow these individuals who perform abortions some special dispensation to provide substandard care."
The "fantasy" he refers to is the media-fueled notion that the Abortion Industry is committed to protecting women and their health. Like drug dealers who peddle drugs on street corners, abortionists are only interested in their clients for as long as the money is good. Once they meet the demand, collect the money, they are done with the people they claim to serve.
All across the nation, in various states, Planned Parenthood and their abortion colleagues are fighting attempts to hold them accountable to decent standards of medical care. In California, they are pressing the Legislature to make it legal for nurses to perform abortions as a strategy to improve profit margins.
It is striking that the Death Industry would be so brazen with the profound moral and health scandal of Kermit Gosnell just months old. It is a reflection, we believe, of the national atmospherics engendered by President Obama and his unwavering loyalty to the Abortion Industry. They clearly believe he is big enough to protect them.


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Alpine INE-W977A 7" Multimedia System with Navigation - Apple CarPlay & Android Auto DAB+
Alpine's all-new INE-W977A is the benchmark of in-car entertainment, equipped with Apple Carplay, Android Auto and built-in premium navigation. The elegant design is combined with clever connectivity satisfying every need within the dashboard, you can experience features such as phone calls, messages and an endless choice of music which can all be commanded simply through Siri, OK Google and voice control. Offering remarkable audio playback, enjoy High-Res sound sources at 96kHz/24Bit or greater.
Primo 3.0 NextGen navigation offers an array of features including 4WD Off-Road maps and an extensive Point of Interest database. An abundance of entertainment options are available at the touch of a button with HDMI and USB connectivity and DAB+ digital radio. With rigorous performance standards and uncompromisable quality, the INE-W977A is an astounding all-in-one navigation system.


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REVIEW: 'Archie' #5 by Mark Waid, Veronica Fish, Andre Szymanowicz and Jen Vaughn
★★★★★ (5/5)
Who do you turn to when desperate situations call for desperate measures? If you're Betty Cooper and Jughead Jones your only option is the shadiest character in Riverdale - Reggie Mantle. Archie is still under Veronica's spell and his friends have to enlist some help to pry him away. Mark Waid continues to shine with this modern update that pays homage as well as offering new layers to some familiar characters. Veronica Fish takes over the art duties and immediately shows why she belongs on this flagship series.
Waid has the ability to flesh out the personalities beyond the labels they've carried for decades. Archie is much more than a loser, in fact he's self-aware and recognizes his friends' plans to interfere in his relationship with Veronica. Veronica can be viewed as the villain, rich and spoiled, but Waid occasionally allows her to let down her guard and expose her vulnerabilities, trying to fit in. It makes scenes like her dancing with Archie the more rewarding knowing that she appreciates his company and she's not just using him. Equally impactful are the reactions from Betty and Jughead seeing them together that perhaps there's more to Veronica than they've been willing to admit. Betty's melancholy resonates in her face, an example of Fish's ability to convey emotion with a single look or posture.
Reggie is just the right kind of conniver to help plan to separate Archie and Veronica but he's not as slick as he thinks he is. Waid could have played up his cooler-than-cool persona straight but as with other characters he lets some humility peek through. It's these type of character arcs within an issue that makes the new Archie more character-driven than plot driven. There are shades of gray to everyone and their interactions feel authentic and sweet but still as fun as ever. Taking a classic title with well-established characters is no easy task but Waid has masterfully made the Riverdale gang as engaging and appealing as ever.
As for Fish, following Fiona Staples and Annie Wu is no small task either. Fans need not worry because the smart people at Archie Comics just found the next great artist in Fish. It's hard not to compare her work to Staples but Fish does some wonderful line work and designs that fall in the same league with the award-winning artist. Andre Szymanowicz and Jen Vaughn infuse the panels with amazing color choices with deliberately thoughtful and varied shades. How they make the wardrobe pop is especially inspired and modern.
When I started this review I thought the issue was good but after going through the pages and reexamining the scenes and the interactions between the characters I may have been a little too conservative. The thoughtful approach to writing these teens is nothing short of endearing and the updated look remains extraordinary. 'Archie' #5 is one of the best issues of the run so far and if Waid and Fish can remain a duo for a while it could very well be one of the best collaborations in comics.


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- Migrating from fresh water to the ocean to spawn. SEE ALSO: anadromous.
Medical dictionary. 2011.
Look at other dictionaries:
Catadromous — Ca*tad ro*mous, a. [Gr. kata down + dro mos a running.] 1. (Bot.) Having the lowest inferior segment of a pinna nearer the rachis than the lowest superior one; said of a mode of branching in ferns, and opposed to {anadromous}. [1913 Webster] 2.… … The Collaborative International Dictionary of English
catadromous — [kə tad′rə məs] adj. [ CATA + DROMOUS] going back to or toward the sea to spawn: said of certain freshwater fishes … English World dictionary
catadromous — adjective Etymology: probably from New Latin catadromus, from cata + dromus dromous Date: 1880 living in freshwater and going to the sea to spawn < catadromous eels > compare anadromous … New Collegiate Dictionary
catadromous — running down; those fishes which spend most of their lives in freshwater and which migrate to the sea to reproduce, e.g. Anguilla (Myers, 1949; McDowall, 1968) … Dictionary of ichthyology
catadromous — /keuh tad reuh meuhs/, adj. (of fish) migrating from fresh water to spawn in the sea, as eels of the genus Anguilla (distinguished from anadromous). [1880 85; CATA + DROMOUS] * * * … Universalium
catadromous — adjective a) that lives in fresh water and breeds in the sea b) Of a fern in which the first veins in a frond segment are produced towards the base of the frond. Ant … Wiktionary
catadromous — [ka tadrəməs] adjective Zoology (of a fish) migrating down rivers to the sea to spawn. The opposite of anadromous. Origin C19: from cata + Gk dromos running , on the pattern of anadromous … English new terms dictionary
catadromous — ca·tad·ro·mous … English syllables
catadromous — ca•tad•ro•mous [[t]kəˈtæd rə məs[/t]] adj. ich (of fish) migrating from fresh water to spawn in the sea (disting. from anadromous). • Etymology: 1880–85; cata + dromous … From formal English to slang
catadromous — /kəˈtædrəməs/ (say kuh tadruhmuhs) adjective (of fishes) going down a river to the sea to spawn. Compare anadromous. {New Latin, from Greek katadromos running down} … Australian English dictionary


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Hiring a nanny can be very helpful to a parent. Nannies can do a lot for your family which is great as it reduces a lot of stress that is put on you. There are many duties of a nanny that people expect, but not everything is done by every nanny. Many nannies will expect to have to do certain things but there are some duties that not every nanny is going to do. It is important that when you hire a nanny to care for your family that you sit down with the potential nanny to go through a list of job expectations to see if they are comfortable with the items on your list. You are also going to be looking at if the nanny will fit our family and your needs.
So what can you expect out of your nanny? Here are some common duties that you can expect a nanny to perform. Please remember that you should go over these duties with your potential nanny before hiring them so that they will know what is expected of them.
While there are many common duties of a nanny the number one priority they will have is the care of the children. This is a big job as they need to be able to do whatever is needed to care for the children. Some common childcare duties for a nanny may include:
Taking care of an infant. A nanny should be able to feed an infant, burp them, change a diaper, and put the baby to bed.
Preparing meals for the children. This includes any meals that you are going to be gone for as well as snacks throughout the day.
Cleaning up any messes made. This would include cleaning the children and cleaning any mess left after meals, etc. Doing dishes would also be included in this. Cleaning up after the children is part of being a nanny. This means making sure the bedrooms are clean and the play areas are kept clean.
Making sure the children get to their activities. This means driving them to their activities, staying for their activities, and making sure they have everything needed for the activities. It is important that you make sure any nanny you hire has a good driving record so you can feel safer sending your kids in a vehicle with them.
Bathing smaller children and supervising the baths of older children.
Helping the children with their homework. This doesn't mean they tell them the answers rather they just help out explaining any questions the children may have. Younger children who don't yet go to school should be read to as well.
Disciplining the children if need be. This means following the rules of discipline set by the parents.
Most of these duties you can expect out of any nanny that you hire. A nanny is to care for all of the needs of your children whether you are at home or away at work. You will want to talk with a nanny before hiring them. Make sure they have no problem with the methods of discipline you have in place. You should also tell a nanny what you expect and see if they are willing to perform that duty. Some people want their nannies to do all the housework. Not all nannies will do it though. Make sure your nanny is willing to do all housework before hiring them.
A nanny takes on a lot of duties in your house so it is important that you find a nanny that will be a good fit for your family. Making sure to thoroughly interview a nanny will help you discover if the nanny will work out for your particular situation. Also be sure you explain the job expectations and duties so that you can be sure you are hiring someone who is willing to do all that you expect of them.


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To be fair, this isn't solely used in reference to money but it's definitely one of the most popular. If ever these words are trickling out your mouth, it's usually a tell-tale sign that you've given up on trying to find a better way to do something. Regardless of the situation, it needs to be abolished because it's a sign that you're yielding to the forces living outside of you that want nothing more than to separate you from your money.you can never have too much… Click To Tweet
It doesn't matter if you're talking about towels, shoes, bedrooms, cereal, water bottles, toilet paper, or your cable/internet package, you can DEFINITELY have too much of it. Just because something is on sale or slightly more than other options doesn't mean you need to part ways with your hard-earned money for it. Over time, these micro-splurges add up and take away from your ability to achieve more important financial goals.
renting is throwing money away... Click To Tweet
Ahhh yes; the "diamonds are forever" of the mortgage industry. Unfortunately, it's a blatant lie and one that shifts the borrowers attention away from their own long term interest towards a perceived short term savings. While owning [over time] is proven to be better than renting, we shouldn't diminish the value of the flexibility in renting. Just ask anyone that can't even apply for their dream job because they're stuck in an under-water mortgage they can't sell.your network determines your net worth... Click To Tweet
I believe in the spirit of this statement— just not how it's commonly applied. In many cases, this is an excuse to hit up some cocktail hour with other professionals under the guise of "building business relationships" except…aint much building going on. If you're really going to network, then join an organization within your field of interest or attend a professional conference. Better yet, use Instagram for more than sliding into DMs but please please skip the club and lounge shindigs.it takes money to make money... Click To Tweet
Except it doesn't. Your most precious capital is your time. If you spend it on bullshit, that's what you'll eat. And don't you dare hit me with "but time is money".scared money don't make none... Click To Tweet
you don't need a job, you need a career... Click To Tweet
This is straight out of the baby boomer playbook. If this were the early 1970's then, yes, I would agree but today what you really need is multiple streams of income, ownership of assets, tax efficiency and an affordable cost of living. Both the job and career can help you do that.never say never... Click To Tweet
Coughs (((bullshit))). Never eva EVA make a habit of paying just the minimum payment on your credit card, co-sign a note for a friend with a bad credit history, put your eggs in one basket… you get the point.when you know better, you do better... Click To Tweet
We all know that we should be saving more than we do, yet the nationwide savings rate as of September 2017 year is 2.9% soooo…I'm just not a math person... Click To Tweet
Whether you believe you are or you aren't…you're right. Furthermore, being good at math is NOT a pre-requisite to building wealth. In Dr. Thomas Stanley's classic book, The Millionaire Mind, he provides troves of evidence on the academic failures of plenty of millionaires and billionaires. If they can do it, so can you.sometimes you just gotta put it out in the universe... Click To Tweet
This is the lazy space cadets mantra. What you really meant to say is that you're not really motivated to do what you know you should, you're not willing to seek help and you're settling for less than perfect. Meanwhile, other people less qualified than you are living your dreams. Do better.


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Now is a time to speak, I harken! Can my heart consent to let my tongue throw out such words? Such words as Jacobean Comedy? Quizzically oxymoronic in its nature, the notion that something humorous came out of the era of brutal bloody tragedies often circling like flagrant vultures around things like depravity and incest is preposterous. Until you see A King and No King, appearing now as the lighter half of The Incest Rep at Brave Spirits Theatre. In rep with Tis Pity She's a Whore— the actual Jacobean incest tragedy— this oddly humorous piece of theatre is not unlike a Shakespearean comedy wherein you chuckle, but mostly wonder what on earth playwrights Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher were— or as the case may be, weren't— thinking. Directed by Cassie Ash, there's some stellar performances peppered throughout even if some of the conceptual alignments are a bit askew.
The stage is bare; some red paint upon the floor laid by Set Designer Leia Spolter leaves the theatricality of the show's locale to Lighting Designer Jason Aufdem-Brinke and the actors themselves. Though it's a bit unclear from a few of Cassie Ash's directorial choices as to exactly when in time the show is meant to take place. The sartorial selection, thoughtfully threaded by Costume Designer Adalia Tonneyck, at first appear to be somewhat traditional, not Jacobean per say but hinting at such an era. This appears to be the case until we encounter the scene with the Iberian citizens where modern garb and present-day references, attitudes, and speech patterns affect the performance and overall approach to the show. This disjoints the temporal allocation of the production and gives pause for contemplation as to whether or not a layer of modernity was being glossed onto the performance with great purpose or just to spice things up.
Ash's casting choices are strong; there are however questions raised about her pronoun usage in cross-gender casting the role of Ligones (Jenna Berk). The issue is not with cross-casting, but rather the inconsistency of address. Multiple times throughout Berk's scenes as Ligones (as she also plays one of the two Iberian Wives alongside Rebecca Ellis and despite the confusion of the Jersey Shore modernity it's downright hysterical) she is referred to as Sir and Mother, she and he. If Ash was attempting to make a gender-fluid statement of positivity, it's muddled. If Ash was trying to make a different choice with inconsistent pronouns, it's unclear. This is a shame as Berk's performance in the role is quite strong as well as bitingly humorous.
These hiccups aside, and some general lagging in the show's overall pacing— though this appears to be largely textual and less do to Ash's swift ability to move the plot forward— the production is an impressive one, particularly when it comes to some of the stronger personalities being put on display. Briana Manente as Mardonius is one such positive example. Edgy and fully present, particularly in the dense emotional conflicts that arise during her interactions with Arbaces. Versatile in her performance ability, Manente flips easily from humorous to serious in the blink of an eye and makes her character portrayal thoroughly believable as confidant to the king player.
Bacurius (Erik Harrison) is a strolling stumble of tongue-in-cheek interactions, particularly when it comes to the Two Swordsman (Danny Cackley and Lisa Hill-Corley) and of course brave Captain Bessus (Ian Blackwell Rogers.) Playing the witless wonder a la Much Ado's Dogberry, Rogers is a comical scream, bringing a delightful dose of farcical elements to the forefront of his portrayal. The kick-about scene between Rogers and Harrison— courtesy and compliments of Fight and Blood Director Casey Kaleba— is both authentic and hilarious. Kaleba lends a unique knowledge to this style of punch-n-judy physical violence with Rogers and Harrison running wild with it in their little showdowns. Rogers desires a great many praises for all of his antics throughout the production, even if he does usurp the spotlight from time to time in doing so.
Gobrius (Darren Marquardt) is the go-between when it comes to this and that and the affairs of him and her here and there. Marquardt has a hint of flamboyance to his character portrayal that makes it amusing to watch, though initially this is read as unctuous sleaze lying in wait alongside the deceptive malice exuded from Arane (Rebecca Ellis.) The pair put poker faces of titanium in play when it comes to twisting up the plot, with the former being most invested in things that don't make sense until the play draws to its natural conclusion.
Sororal bonds form quickly between the delicate Spaconia (Alison Talvacchio) and Panthea (Kathryn Zoerb) despite no actual blood ties being present. Talvacchio is sweet, much like Zoerb and both are similar in their compassionate facial expressions. Throw Tigranes (Gary DuBreuil) and Arbaces (Brendan Edward Kennedy) into the mix and the whole plot is hurrying along to hell in a handbasket. Primary sets of interactions, which actually move through the plot structure as opposed to the sideline shenanigans with Bessus, among this quartet of individuals are quite intense, even when they're slightly more humorous. Watching the various relationships develop— whether they be appropriate or not (and let's not spoil it too much here, after all, we know this show is in The Incest Rep)— showcases a variety of passions, most of which are expressed vocally.
DuBreuil and Kennedy spar well verbally and physically with one another; Kennedy leads the charge on most of these interactions and altercations, though DuBreuil holds his own extremely well against him. Watching both of them undergo changes of mind and heart is fascinating as they are fully present and actors with acute senses of awareness to their character arc, overall placement in the plot and general emotional integrity. Kennedy in particular is a stage gem as his overreactions tend to erupt from a deep pit of pathos, really hooking the audience into his character's angst.
The lighter of the two, though perhaps the less favorable if you're seeking depravity, A King and No King is a strong and well-developed piece of Jacobean theatre and suited soundly for The Incest Rep.
Running Time: Approximately 2 hours with one intermission
A King and No King plays in repertory with Tis Pity She's a Whore through April 23, 2017 with Brave Spirits Theatre at The Lab at Convergence— 1819 N. Quaker Lane in Alexandria, VA. Tickets are available for purchase at the door or in advance online.
To read Joshua Engel's review of Tis Pity She's a Whore, click here.


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T&M Protection Resources' Managing Director, Jeff Bernstein, Shares Why Your People Should Be Priority When it Comes to Securing Your Organization:
I've worked within the information security industry for over seventeen years and can confidently say that when it comes to information security programs and risk reduction there is one data point that everyone that I meet seems to agree on: more often than not people are the weakest link in an organization's information security posture.
The vast majority of information security breaches are caused by end-users doing something that they shouldn't do like clicking a malicious link in an email message, opening an infected email attachment, using weak passwords, losing laptops or phones or being tricked into giving up their credentials through social engineering attacks. It's absolutely true and in fact, most security industry data now estimates that over 80% of all of successful data thefts begin with an end-user doing something that they shouldn't do.
Social engineering is the manipulation of people into performing actions or divulging confidential information. Social engineering exploits are utilized by attackers for the purpose of information gathering, perpetrating fraud, gaining system access, stealing sensitive data, intellectual property or dollars. I work at T&M Protection Resources where we provide post-breach forensics investigations. Cases that we investigate include simple website defacements, sophisticated thefts of large amounts of data and sums of money via multi-national organized crime rings, denial of service (DoS) attacks and everything in between. Based on our firm's unique experience, I can tell you first hand that more often than not a human error is the root cause of most successful breaches that we investigate. Because of this, companies that fail to properly train their personnel to accurately recognize and respond to security threats are only asking for trouble.
As awareness of the threat grows our firm is being asked more and more often to include Phishing and other social engineering studies as a component of our information security assurance testing programs. We sometimes come out of these exercises with a 50% or more conversion rate. "Conversion" meaning that we tricked an end-user into doing something that they should not have done like clicking on a malicious link, entering a user name and password, opening a malicious attachment and the like. When we deliver our results the first question that the clients always ask is "what can we do to fix this problem?" The single best answer to this question is to train internal personnel on security awareness matters. When done correctly, security awareness training is HIGHLY effective in mitigating the threat posed by people and the human element.
Security awareness training programs should include useful information relating to the latest security threats (phishing, smishing, etc.). Effective training programs should also include content specific to the company's security policies and procedures. This should typically include social media, acceptable use, data retention, and bring your own device policies when applicable. During the training program each employee should also be asked to read and accept company policies relating to acceptable usage which puts each employee on notice that they must be vigilant about security in the workplace.
The spirit and overarching theme of any security awareness training program should be that security is the responsibility of everyone in the workplace and that everyone needs to remain vigilant when it comes to recognizing and properly responding to information security threats.
Training should be enhanced with creative tests or studies that measure personnel awareness (email phishing studies, pretext calling, trojan snail-mailings, etc). Testing with frequency matures personnel end-users from a security awareness perspective and also allows the company to gauge retention of the information presented throughout the training curriculum. Testing also allows the organization to gauge improvement in security posture as it relates to security awareness of personnel. Risk reduction now becomes clearly quantifiable. Proper documentation of results over time is meaningful for management, audit and other purposes as it accurately shows where the awareness-related security posture has been, where is it at any given time and in what direction it is progressing. Security managed in this way becomes an enabler to the success of any business.
Achieving absolute security in the enterprise is simply impossible. Improving security usually costs money, capabilities, time, ease of use, civil liberties and more. Many organizations also lack internal resources, expertise, infrastructure and budgeting to deliver effective awareness training programs to their staff. The most effective compensating control to mitigate the most prevalent information security threat (the human element) to the workplace is security awareness training along with regular testing.
What we typically recommend for our clients is that all staff members attend a yearly training course at a minimum. This can take place in person or online depending on the client's preference. For many companies employees work across numerous geographies and because of this it is hard to assemble personnel in live sessions. It is also difficult to measure content retention when dealing with large live audiences. For this reason, many of our clients are choosing online training which is highly effective. Online training also provides a better platform to measure progress and generate reports that can be used internally for compliance and audit purposes. Online training should be highly interactive and not something that can simply be clicked-thru. In additional to the yearly module, we also recommend that our clients deliver an abridged security awareness training primer to new employees as they are hired. This gives new employees an immediate lesson on awareness and also spells out exactly what is expected from them security-wise during their on-boarding. Testing throughout the training module should also be included. This ensures that the lesson's content is being retained by the end-user.
For more information on security awareness training products visit: http://www.www.globallearningsystems.com/products/security-awareness-training/
About Jeff Bernstein
Jeffrey Bernstein is the Managing Director of T&M Protection Resources (T&M) and has worked within the information security industry for over seventeen years. T&M Protection Resources has been providing a growing portfolio of seamlessly integrated security and intelligence services to leading businesses, financial organizations, investment management firms, corporations, academic institutions and private client since 1981.


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|Vehicle Info (Ad# 81824)
|Year, Make, Model:
|2002 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
|Asking price:
|Exterior/Interior Color:
|Engine - HP - Trans:
|5.7L V8 F OHV - - 4 Speed Automatic with EOD
|AC, AM/FM Stereo, CD Player, Cruise Control, Power Locks, Power Steering, Power Windows, Tilt /Telescopic
|Stock: #1478-TPA Price: $16,000 Engine: 5.7L V8 F OHV Transmission: 4 Speed Automatic with Electric Overdrive Mileage: 73,401 ( actual ) Body Style: Convertible Exterior Color: Pewter Interior Color: Black Air Conditioning Aluminum Wheels AM/FM Radio Anti-Theft System CD Player Automatic Convertible Top Cruise Control Driver Airbag Lumbar Support Performance Tires Power Locks Power Steering Power Windows Radial Tires Rear Airbag Telescopic Wheel Tilt Wheel Traction Control Numbers are Matching Gateway Classic Cars of Tampa is proud to list this sharp 2002 Chevrolet Corvette. The Chevrolet Corvette (C5) was the fifth generation of the Chevrolet Corvette sports car, produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors for the 1997 through 2004 model years. This sharp Gray Metallic convertible has only about 73k miles on it with a clean history and only two owners. This car comes with its original window sticker and a breakdown off all of the RPO coded options. Powered by a 5.7-liter LS1 engine producing an impressive 345 HP and mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission, this car will not disappoint. Many upgrades were adding when ordering this beautiful machine like the polished Aluminum wheels, convertible top, memory adjustable bucket seats, 12-disc cd changer, Bose sound system, A/C, power heated mirrors, Halogen headlamps and so much more! The C5 is competitive in regard to the 0-60 mph acceleration times with almost all premium sports cars of its era, including the Aston Martin DB7 Vantage, and the Ferrari 355. A composite of published performance numbers for the base-model coupé and convertible gives a 0-60 mph time of around 4.5 seconds, and a standing quarter-mile time of around 13.3 seconds at 108 mph (both times for a vehicle equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission). If you are looking for a like new Corvette that you can drop the top and enjoy than this is the Corvette for you! This 2002 Corvette is for sale in our Tampa Showroom and can be viewed in greater detail including 100+ HD pictures and an HD video at www.GatewayClassicCars.com. For additional information, please call our knowledgeable staff at (813)645-6200 or email us at firstname.lastname@example.com. If you would like to see it in person, come to our Tampa Showroom, located at 351 30th Street NE, Ruskin, FL 33570. Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM EST. Numbers Matching and Original Mileage Cars If marked as such, the Owner states, this vehicles as numbers matching and/or original mileage. It has not been verified by Gateway Classic Cars. As such Gateway Classic Cars is not guaranteeing the authenticity of this claim. Buyer is encouraged to verify this information on their own, prior to purchase. All Vehicles are sold AS-IS
|Contact Information
|Gateway Classic Cars
|City, State, Zip:
|O'Fallon, Illinois 62269
|Web Site:
|Please visit www.UsedCorvettesForSale.com/corvette-81824 for
more info and photos.
The internet's best site for buying and selling Corvettes.


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Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity on Riley Street in Holland receives some assistance on its entrance canopy from Elzinga & Volkers. Photo via fb.com
For the first time in recent memory, the construction industry in West Michigan is taking time out to discuss an important part of our business that's all too often just boiled down to stats and numbers — during Alive365: Safety Week.
The week, from March 21-28, features free safety training and certification programs for all kinds of construction and specialty trade contractors, hosted by local businesses and featuring speakers from MiOSHA, the governmental organization responsible for workplace safety. We're presenting the week, along with several industry partners.
Safety training, like those classes offered during safety week, not only keeps workers up-to-date on the latest safety regulations, but focuses on building a culture of safety that is ingrained in everything our industry as a whole does and every building that we build.
Why a safety culture?
But why is building a safety culture that is ingrained in every part of your business so important? Consider the following two equally important reasons:
1. You should be genuinely concerned for each of your workers' safety and want them to go home at the end of each day healthy and happy.
Yes, we have chosen a dangerous, high-risk career. But it is unacceptable to acknowledge even one injury or death among our workforce as "just a part of this business." The state of Michigan mourned the loss of 12 people who died of construction work-related causes in 2013. We believe that, together, our industry can bring that statistic to zero.
2. The pursuit of safety positively impacts job revenue and your bottom line. Experiencing fewer accidents on the construction site lowers your Experience Modification Rate. Your low EMR translates to the following:
- Lower workers' compensation insurance premium rates
- A way to market yourself to clients as a cost-reliable partner
- Added project opportunities by meeting owner EMR requirements
- Increased company production
- Avoiding costly lawsuits
A safety program
It's never worth the short-term savings to compromise safety for cost, convenience or schedule challenges. As the safety director, devoted to our workers' safety, I have found the following tactics extremely helpful in building an effective safety program:
Hire character first
Achieving safety success starts with hiring individuals who possess the highest regard for safety, quality and professionalism. Most companies believe it's the systems or programs they've implemented that lead to success, but the finest systems will be useless if they're not followed by dedicated employees. Hire character before skill every time. You can teach a skill much more easily than you can teach attitude and commitment to your program.
Dedicate resources
Invest in your employees. If you take care of your employees and put them first, they will in turn treat clients well and make a positive impact on their job sites. In addition to an assigned internal safety director, recruit a safety committee who will continuously look for ways to foster safety awareness. Train on-site supervisors to hold detailed, weekly job-site inspections and toolbox talks that are relative to the work being performed. Also, consider hiring a third party to audit job sites in order to receive outside perspective on your level of safety.
Partner with OSHA
Yes, you heard me! By using the free services OSHA provides for site consultations, you can ensure a safe work site and save your company from paying costly fines. Especially if your superintendents are short on time, have your local OSHA education officer review your project at the beginning or at various stages of critical work to ensure safety standards are met.
Communicate practices
Communication is one of the most effective ways to influence your workforce's dedication to safety. As part of your safety program, consider holding a regular, company-wide safety meeting to educate employees on safe practices, as well as recognize and celebrate safe behavior on the job site. Our meeting rundown includes:
- Managers from the field and the office presenting on a relevant safety topic each month and safety procedures to avoid these concerns
- Reviewing our safety records and discussing impacts of: the total days since a lost-time injury, days since a recordable injury and results of recent OSHA site reviews
- Sharing client testimonials that recognize a specific employee or crew
- Celebrating when substantial safety milestones are reached by throwing a party to reward employees for their dedication to safety
West Michigan leads the industry in constructing high performance and architecturally significant buildings.
Ingraining a safety culture in every company, every project and every employee will reinforce the assertion that West Michigan is a great place to build your next facility.
More information on Alive365: Safety Week is online.


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Willie Nelson Loveland 2007
Original concert poster for Willie Nelson with Merle Haggard and Ray Price at the Budweiser Event Center in Loveland, CO on March 12, 2007. 6.5"x18.5" on card stock paper. Art by Darren Grealish
Designer: Darren Grealish
Dimensions: 6.5x18.5 inches
Condition: MINT
Date: 2007
Posters > Music Posters
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text: This Colorful New Font Is Made Entirely of Brand Logos – The typeface of choice for the late-stage capitalist: "Creatives at digital agency Hello Velocity have developed Brand New Roman, a font comprised of 76 corporate brand logos. The Idiocracy-style project is partly parody, but you can actually download the font and use it—and artists have already been playing around with it, too. Lukas Bentel, partner and creative director at Hello Velocity, tells Muse that the driving idea behind Brand New Roman was simple: "This stage of capitalism is pretty weird. Seems like a good time to spoof it!" The font is pretty overwhelming when all the original colors of the logos are used…"


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Cray Cray in Africay! Tonight's episode of MTV's The Challenge:Battle of the Seasons started off with the challenge between the final 4 teams. You know it's about to be a cray episode when the challenge starts off right at the top of the hour!
The final challenge before the 'final' challenge was the one where they get shot off some sort of slide into the water, the one in the previews where we see Zach flying into the air screaming at the top of his lungs. Yep, it sure was a good one to end off with. Teams had to pair up, one person driving the four wheeler that pulls the other teammate who is being shot out from the slide- into the water, and swimming to a dock. The swimmer has to then get onto the dock, which proved challenging for Sarah…ring a bell…and then swim back to shore.
Teams with 4 people would do it twice..and obviously the two person teams (Cancun & Vegas) would use their one score. Dustin and Trishelle go first, which proves to their advantage because Dustin absolutely kills his time, coming in first and winning Team Vegas power team.
Cancun does pretty bad, Derek is winded by the first leg of the swim, he's slow getting back to the shore. The biggest surprise was Team San Diego. For some reason Ashley stalls the four wheeler, so Frank doesn't really get shot out of the slide, which has him swimming an even longer distance than everybody else. This causes a huge set back for their team, but they manage to come in second last.
It's been a BIG turn of events for Team Vegas, after Nany and Alton got booted off, it looked like Vegas was on their way out. Dustin refused to continue on with Trishelle…and Trishelle just blamed Dustin for everything. It comes as a HUGE surprise that they were power team, and had opportunity to choose the other team to go into eliminations with Cancun. Obviously, Vegas chooses San Diego because they hate them and vice versa. It is a pivotal moment for SD because they've been running the game thus far, but are now facing the possibility of being sent home.
Team Brooklyn is lookin' good at this point, with SD being the only other 4 person team and going into the final eliminations, they might start off the final race with the only 4 person squad! They've definitely come a long way…and I'm rooting for them.
San Diego (Ashley & Frank) end up beating out Cancun (Jonna & Derek) after a grueling strategy game in the middle of the African desert. Apparently, Jonna let the 'voices' get to her head…or maybe because…oh never mind I won't say it. Chet said it better anyways.
So now that there's only 3 teams left, they head back to their swanky new apartment, with a bunch of free new Under Armour gear. I swear I would do these challenges for the sole purpose of getting free Under Armour. The next morning is the final race…teams get ready for the hardest thing they'll ever do in their lives.
I don't know how this seasons final race is going to top last season's challenge in freezing Iceland!! I don't think it can get much worse than having to sleep over night in the middle of the arctic…in a tent. But we'll have to wait and see.
The teams will start off in the air…Devyn is super excited because she thinks she's going to fly her way to the finish line. (For your sake Devyn…we hope that's true). I know TJ was exaggerating the difficulty of this challenge, he says that every season, I have a feeling it will be extremely difficult, but it won't be as bad as we think. But I've been wrong…soo…tune in next week for the finale!


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Common Diamond Shapes
If you thought all diamond shapes were the same, you may be surprised at the abundant number of diamond shapes that are available. Most jewelers offer at least nine of the most common gemstone shapes, including:
· Round diamonds
· Emerald diamonds
· Heart diamonds
· Princess diamonds
· Pear diamonds
· Radiant diamonds
· Asscher diamonds
· Marquis diamonds
· Oval diamonds
Two diamonds that are the same shape will appear to look slightly different depending on the size and weight of the diamond, as well as the type of setting that the stone is placed in. The same ring worn on two different hands can also look quite different, based on the size of the hands.
Diamond Shape versus Diamond Cut
Many people mistakenly use the terms "diamond shapes" and "diamond cuts" interchangeably, but there is a difference between them. The cut of a diamond refers to how the artisan maximizes the features of the gemstone by creating angles and details, making the light go into the diamond and bounce back in the most brilliant way possible. The quality of a diamond's cut contributes greatly to the overall value of the gemstone, where as the shape of a diamond does not increase or decrease a diamond's value. When discussing diamond shapes, you are referring to the actual geometric shape of the diamond, whether it is round or oval, emerald or heart shaped, for example.
Choosing Diamond Shapes
Many selection possibilities of diamond shapes. If you or your loved one are buying a diamond, look at all the different varieties. Find the one that is most pleasing to your eyes, and that looks the best or just feels right when you put it on.
When choosing a diamond shape for someone else, it becomes a bit more difficult. For an engagement ring, many women prefer the traditional round shaped diamond, while others may enjoy having something more unique. A young woman or a hopeless romantic may prefer to have a heart shaped diamond.
When choosing diamond shapes for rings consider the shape and the size of a woman's hand. Long, slender fingers, can elegantly wear a pear shaped diamond, marquis, or oval shape. Small hands typically look best with round or princess shaped diamonds.
Choosing Diamond Engagement Rings
Considering that there is such a wide variety of diamond shapes available, the most commonly purchased shape for engagement rings is the round diamond. Round diamonds are considered the "classic", and the stones are often set in yellow gold or platinum. In fact, any diamond shape other than round is considered to be an untraditional shape, since the round diamond is so popular.


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Pro Sport Physiotherapy Clinicians will use our unique leading assessment techniques to navigate to the root cause of the problem.
We will endeavour to treat and eliminate the pain while also ensuring the cause of the issue was addressed in the process ensuring a smooth and durable return to your chosen hobby or sport like our professional athletes have also experienced.
Shin Splints Treatment
What Others Say About Us
Everyday more people join the ultimate experience.


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If you have ever wanted to venture into the world of jewellery-making but didn't know where to begin then this could be the book for you. The fully illustrated step-by-step projects will guide you with ease through a variety of techniques suitable for all levels, even the beginner, enabling you to create individual gifts for loved ones or one-off items to treasure yourself. The collection provides inspiration and helpful tips along the way, with a project to suit every personality. From the sophisticated Audrey, the sea-themed La Mer, to the 60s inspired Funky. Techniques to learn range from crimping to knotting, wire wrapping to using illusion cord. The colourful charms, beads and buttons can be adapted for your own designs, and as you progress through the book you'll discover an array of alternative materials to incorporate too, such as wire, ribbon, fabric and even recycled zips!
Book Specification Data
- Publishing: Autumn 12
- Pub month: September
- Author: Tansy Wilson
- Price: £9.99
- Binding: PB with flaps
- No. of pages: 120
- Dimensions: 210 x 210 mm
- Colour: Full colour throughout


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Absolutely shocked by the homophobia in this:
That bit where Piet was stored under the bed was outrageous – everyone knows that gays don't hide under beds – communists do!
And as for Muslim radicals, feminists, politicians and the KKK – don't even think of parodying them. However, my totally justified sense of grievance appears to be in a minority these days. The comment which had 249 approvals was:
This synthetic moral outrage really is getting rather tedious.
And this had quite a few too:
Don't people like you realise that your constant accusations of rascism are making things worse? People are sick and tired of being told what to do, what to say and what to think.
Well … um … I quite enjoy being outraged actually. And if you think this below is funny, you should be ashamed – she paid a fortune for that dress:
And what prejudice piece would be complete without a Jewish joke:
To finish up:


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Take Professional Photos with Your Smartphone!Pudding Camera's 9 Quality Cameras and 8 Beautiful Films – with various aspect ratios, Multi-frame shots, Fish-eye and toy camera effects – will enable anyone to produce gorgeous photography with DSLR quality.* Loved by Girls' Generation, Super Junior, B2st, KARA & K-POP Stars for Flattering Self-portraits* Recommended by Major IT Media Including CNET, Mashable & More[Exclusive in Pudding Camera]1. The Widest Viewfinder and a Real Camera-Like InterfaceEnjoy our full-screen viewfinder and our newest feature, 'Real-time Effects Preview'! (required Dual-Core processor or higher)2. Essential Aspect RatiosBasic (4:3), Snap (3:2), Panorama (16:9)3. Fun-inducing Cameras with Effects – Tilt-Shift, Multi-frame Shots & Fish-eyeFantasy (Tilt-Shift), Motion2x2 (4:3 / 4 shots), Motionx4 (1:3 / 4 shots), Fish-eye (hemispherical), Motionx2 (3:2 / 2 shots), Triplex (3 shots)4. 8 Films Designed with Retro Sensibility iPhone Basic, Vintage Brown, Vintage Blue, Vignetting, Dazzle, Mono, Noir, Vivid[Main Features]1. Camera Functions- Choose from 9 Quality Cameras and 8 Beautiful Films- Exposure Controls (-2.0~+2.0)- Exposure/Focus Lock (AE/AF)- Face Recognition- Grid feature- Self-Camera mode (Touch screen to shoot)- Timer countdown for Motion Camera Series2. Gallery- Photos ordered by date in Gallery- Share and delete multiple photos- Preview Photo with image data: Date, time, camera, film, image size and exposure info3. Settings- Gallery Info: Total photos count, Favorite camera and film- Supports three resolution sizes (Small: 472px, Medium: 700px, Large: 1280px, Original)- Update Pudding Camera from Settings4. Easy, Instant Sharing-E-Mail-Facebook-Twitter-Tumblr-Flickr[Contact Us]Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/PuddingcamBlog: http://blog.pudding.to/en/category/blog/pudding-camera/Twitter: https://twitter.com/pudding_to* Pudding Camera requires OS 2.2 or higher.* Real-time effect requires Dual-Core processor or higher.* Pudding Camera is available in English, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Spanish, French and German.* If you have any problems using the app, please feel free to contact mobile customer center (app settings > help/customer center)


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Interprovincial Corrosion Control Company Limited (ICCC) was established in 1957 in Canada; and has beenproviding professional engineering services and manufacturing of Corrosion Control/Cathodic Protection Materials to major "End-Users" throughout North America and the Global marketplace.
The Rustrol® Product Line as manufactured by Interprovincial Corrosion Control (ICCC) is the original developer and manufacturer of the Polarization Cell System (since 1957), and are also the original developers of the technology supporting the development of the Solid-State Rustrol® Cathodic Isolator®, utilizing state-of-the-art design and superior test proven, quality controlled components throughout the construction.
ICCC believes that the global market has embraced Rustrol® Systems during our 60+ years in the Corrosion Control Industry.
The Rustrol® Cathodic Isolator®, Model: CI, Model: SSP-ATEX, and DC-Decoupler™ Model: DCD-ATEX Systems are designed to protect personnel and equipment from electrical disturbances. Rustrol® Systems effectively block cathodic protection DC voltages; all other electrical disturbances are freely conducted to the utilities grounding network, such as:
- AC Fault Currents
- Lightning/Surge Currents
- AC Induced Voltages
- Power Switching Surge Currents
Rustrol® Cathodic Isolator®, Models: SSP
The Rustrol® Cathodic Isolator®, Solid-State Surge Protector, Model: SSP is utilized where AC Mitigation and/or Lightning exposure are the primary concern to the "End-User" and offers a range of AC Fault Current exposures to accommodate most "End-Users" requirements.
For more information about the Rustrol® Cathodic Isolator®, Solid-State Surge Protector, Model: SSP visit http://www.rustrol.com/Pages/rustrol-systems-CI-rustrolcathodicisolator-ssp.aspx
Rustrol® DC-Decoupler™, Models: DCD
The standard Rustrol® DC-Decoupler™, Model: DCD Product Line provides an economical engineered solution in a compact, lightweight, ready to mount assembly. The Rustrol® DC-Decoupler™, Model: DCD is typically utilized within applications of light/moderate exposure of AC Fault Currents, moderate AC Mitigation/Discharge and lower lightning exposure (i.e. 75 kA @ 8/20 µs).
For more information about the Rustrol® DC-Decoupler™, Model: DCD, visit: http://www.rustrol.com/Pages/rustrol-systems-IC-rustrolcathodicisolator-dcd.aspx
Rustrol® Cathodic Isolator®, Models: CI
The Rustrol® Model: CI is typically utilized for unique application such as, higher AC fault current conditions and/or higher DC Voltage Thresholds which are to be retained on the cathodically protected structure (i.e. Pipeline, Storage Tank etc.). The Rustrol®, Model: CI can achieve "End-User" requirements of AC fault Currents well in excess of 100 kA, 150 kA, up to 240 kA @ 1 cycle for 50 Hz or 60 Hz rms. The Rustrol® Cathodic Isolator®, Model: CI product line is available to provide DC Voltage Thresholds to meet the "End-User's" requirements, typically with the range of +/- 2.5 - 20 volts DC blocking potential.
Rustrol Cathodic Isolator Brochure
For more information about the Rustrol® Cathodic Isolator®, Solid-State Surge Protector, Model: CI visit http://www.rustrol.com/Pages/rustrol-systems-IC-rustrolcathodicisolator-ci.aspx
The Rustrol® Gas Gap™ Lightning Protector
The Rustrol® Gas Gap™ Lightning Protector is a device that provides an electrical path (i.e. conductive mode) for isolating assemblies (i.e. Flanges/Monolithic Isolating Joints) during Electrical Exposures such as Lightning and Switching Surge Current.
For more information about the Rustrol® Gas Gap™ Lightning Protector, visit http://www.rustrol.com/Pages/rustrol-systems-lightninggascap.aspx
Rustrol® Gradient Control Systems
The Rustrol® Gradient Control Systems (GCS) provide a conducting path to the electrical utilities grounding network, utilizing the Rustrol®, Model: SSP or DCD (i.e. DC-Decoupling Device).
Rustrol Gradient Control Systems Brochure (GCS)
For further information about the Rustrol® Gradient Control Systems (GCS)*, visit http://rustrol.com/Pages/rustrol-systems-gcs.aspx
The Rustrol® Gradient Control System - MatTM (GCS-M) is utilized primarily to limit shock risks caused by localized "Step & Touch" voltage potentials that often occur within Valve Stations, Electrical Substations and en route of pipelines at Test Station locations.
Rustrol Gradient Control Systems Brochure - Mat
For more information about the Rustrol® Gradient Control System – Mat™ (GCS-M)*, visit http://rustrol.com/Pages/rustrol-systems-gcs.aspx
The Rustrol® Gradient Control System - Copper CableTM (GCS-CC) is often utilized for AC mitigation of hazardous voltages. This grounding/AC mitigation technique should be connected to the primary structure (i.e. pipeline) in series arrangement through a DC-Decoupling Device.
The Rustrol® Gradient Control System - Zinc RibbonTM (GCS-ZR) is typically connected to the primary structure (i.e. pipeline) in series arrangement through a DC-Decoupling Device at designated intervals to eliminate or reduce the coating stress voltage associated with high AC voltages originating from the Electric Power Transmission Corridor.
Rustrol® Cathodic Isolator® Fibreglass Pedestal, Model: CIFP-36 provides a free-standing, secure, maintenance-free secondary enclosure for mounting the Rustrol® Cathodic Isolator®, Model: CI, SSP or DCD (i.e. DC Decoupling Device).
A direct link to ICCC Drawing No. SSP-14, Rev.0 for the Typical Pedestal, Model Mount is: http://www.rustrol.com/WordDocs/SSP-14,%20Rev.0.pdf
For more information about the Rustrol® Cathodic Isolator® Fibreglass Pedestal, Model: CIFP-36, visit http://www.rustrol.com/Pages/rustrol-pedestal-mount.aspx
ICCC is a Corporate Member of the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE), American Water Works Association (AWWA), the Professional Engineers of Ontario (PEO) and the Institute of Corrosion U.K. (ICorr). ICCC is a Gold Corporate Member of the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) with experienced Corrosion Engineers on staff, specializing in the protection of buried or immersed steel structures(i.e., water/natural gas pipelines, fuel storage tanks, petroleum refineries, etc.) by the proven technique of Cathodic Protection. Furthermore, ICCC personnel are active members of NACE, AWWA and CSA Technical Committees, and have been continuously involved in developing Corrosion Standards and technical State of the Art Reports for well in excess of 60+ years.
Interprovincial Corrosion Control Company Limited (ICCC) values the long standing working relationship with Cathodic Protection Company Limited. ICCC has proven our reliability by providing high quality products, superior customer service with "On-Time" delivery.


text: Inviato April 10, 2014 The site eGullet.org was literally the first client of Invision Power Services when our company was founded over 12 years ago. Steven Shaw, along with his partner, stepped up and supported IPS in its first days and stayed with us all these years. They were our first paying client, our first hosting client, and often the first to get early betas of our releases. It was with great sadness that I read today of the passing of Steven Shaw. Steven was a friend and mentor to me personally. He advised me as IPS grew, provided valuable feedback, was our first attorney, and was always on board to hear out ideas. My first trip to New York City, my first cruise, and many great dining ideas were all based around his friendly advice. He honored me with a copy of his book when it was released. And of course he introduced me to the joys of Julia Child by shipping me some old recordings of her show. Steven Shaw will be missed. I personally am in debt to his generosity and advice over the years as is IPS as a company. View the full article View the full article Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti


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In today's real life case study I want to particularly talk about procrastination in an open office environment vs working from home – using myself as a case study.
When I'm in the office environment my train of thought goes something like this: "To-do list to my right, keyboard in front, large packet of crisps/nuts/liquorice allsorts to my left – boom, work commences. What kind of work? It's the thinking-hard-about-something kind of work. It's top on the list because I know I don't like doing it and it's been on my list all week…is this liquorice getting stuck in my front teeth? I kind of need the loo anyway so I might as well go and check. I'll take my to-do list with me just in case there's someone I can harass about something on the way back. 40 minutes later, 4 little items ticked off the list – hurrah, this is thirsty work…tea anyone?"
Sound familiar?
For me procrastination isn't really about achieving nothing – Procrastination is about me not getting around to the boring important bits. Today I'm self-employed and work largely from home and have been worried about the looming possibility of having a boring important job that I never get done – I've waited nearly a year, this has not happened. Why? What was it about my previous work that meant my boring important jobs were regularly avoided when now I happily do them even though the work I do hasn't changed much? Is it about focus? At home is there less to steal my focus? I'd argue no; open office environments and working from home have a plethora of distraction opportunities, if anything many people will testify that distractions are far greater at home, no, I don't think this is the reason for my new found lack of procrastination.
I'd like to suggest that the disappearance of my procrastination is because I allow myself to not be busy. Open office environments have a major flaw – they give doing nothing a bad name. At home, I can spend half an hour contemplating the inside of my left foot, all the while cogs turn and my relaxed mode is preparing me for a hefty chunk of thinking-hard-about-something work. Whereas in the office, the need to "appear busy" leads me to swap boring important jobs for the quick and urgent because I fear the judgement of my peers and seniors. The irony is that allowing ourselves some downtime could actually increase productivity, and in the end could tackle procrastination too, if only we would let it.
Does this ring true for you? I'd be interested to hear your experiences…


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TRC's weekly industry digest - a round-up of international racing news from the past week.
Owners and breeders in £150m deal to take a share in the Tote
Europe: A consortium of owners and breeders has reached an agreement to purchase a share of the Tote from Fred Done, founder and chief executive of Betfred, who acquired the Tote from the UK Government in 2011.
The deal, worth up to £150 million, with the Alizeti consortium is expected to safeguard the future of the Tote as a high-street bookmaker and its pivotal role in British horseracing. As part of the agreement, the group has taken an initial 25 per cent stake with an option to purchase 100 per cent in the future.
Alizeti is understood to have been in talks with Britbet, the rival pool-betting business about to be launched by 55 of Britain's racecourses, about a possible partnership between the two operations.
Alizeti, which is fronted by owner-breeder Alex Frost, has received backing from industry heavyweights such as leading Newmarket trainer John Gosden, 20-time champion jumps jockey Sir Anthony McCoy, Richard Thompson of Cheveley Park Stud, and the Racehorse Owners Association.
Frost said Done had "achieved incredible things in the industry" and praised the veteran bookmaker for delivering "on all his promises regarding contributions to racing and securing jobs".
"Our supporters are dedicated racing people who, collectively, own and train more than 1,000 racehorses worldwide - and we're excited and determined to work together for the Tote," said Frost. "This is a defining moment for the future funding structure of British racing. We want the Tote to help secure racing's finances for generations to come."
Alongside Frost, the board will be completed by chairman Eamonn Wilmott - a former board member of the British Horseracing Association (BHA) – and chief marketing and brand officer Andy Hobsbawm.
Record Preakness handle a pleasant surprise
North America: Last weekend's Preakness Stakes at Pimlico set a record total wagering handle of $61.97 million, which is slightly up from the previous record $61.27 million set in 2016, and a 2.9 per cent increase from last year, despite the race having two fewer runners.
However, bets placed for the entire 14-race card amounted to $93.66 million, down 4.4 percent compared with total handle on a 14-race card last year, although still the third-best full-card handle total on Preakness Day.
"I was really surprised," said Tim Ritvo, chief operating officer of the Stronach Group. "I honestly thought we were going to get killed with the [bad] weather and the fields."
New levy development role for Harman
Europe: Steve Harman has confirmed that he will step down as chairman of the BHA in November, eight months before his second-term in office is officially due to finish.
Harman will work in a liaison role on racing's behalf with the UK Government on developing the levy to counter the threat to the sport's finances in the wake of the decision to cut FOBT(Fixed Odds Betting Terminal) stakes to £2.
His departure ends a period of political unrest at the BHA that saw an investigation into the Englishman's conduct within the organisation. Harman had been accused of a conflict of interest after meeting with Alizeti's Alex Frost at the Cheltenham Festival in March.
Harman, who had received support from Newmarket trainers such as John Gosden and William Haggas, as well as Culture Secretary Matt Hancock, vehemently denies any misconduct but has apologised "for inaccuracies in his initial explanations to the board".
The process of recruiting a new chairman is to begin soon.
Melbourne Cup TV rights up for grabs ...
Oceania: The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) has put its broadcast rights out to tender for the first time in 16 years.
The rights will include Australia's biggest racing event, the Melbourne Cup Carnival, which has been shown on Seven Network since 2002. The commercial free-to-air network's contract remains in place until the end of March 2019.
The revised media rights package will include free-to-air, pay TV, internet, mobile, OTT streaming and a hybrid broadcast TV.
A VRC official said: "The VRC board and management have resolved to conduct a formal market tender process to formalise new media rights agreements for the 2019 Melbourne Cup Carnival and beyond. Details regarding this process will remain commercial in confidence."
... and the race needs a new sponsor
Oceania: Six months after sponsoring its last Melbourne Cup, it has been reported that Emirates has terminated its final horse race partnership in Australia.
According to The Australian, the airline will withdraw from sponsoring Australian racing for a minimum of two years. It will, however, continue to have a commercial presence in Australian sport through its sponsorship of Australian Football League (AFL) and the Australian Open tennis, which receive A$2 million and A$8 million a year respectively.
Emirates has in recent weeks formally ended its relationship with the A$2 million Emirates Stakes at Flemington, which is held on the last day of Victoria's Spring Carnival following unsuccessful talks with the VRC. The Dubai carrier had been paying A$4m a year to sponsor the Melbourne Cup and the Emirates Stakes.
Boutros Boutros, Emirates' worldwide sponsorship boss, told The Australian that the breakdown in relationship with the VRC materialised after a disagreement about the location of its Birdcage marquee on Melborne Cup day.
"I wanted the same marquee location," said Boutros. "And they said, 'We can't give it to you because we committed to Lexus [which replaced Emirates as the naming rights sponsor for the Melbourne Cup in February] for this location. I would have hung on to the Emirates Stakes if we had the same marquee position."
Welcome back Great Barrington
North America: Sterling Suffolk Racecourse (SSR) - the company that operates Thoroughbred racing, wagering and simulcasting at Suffolk Downs in Massachusetts - has reached an agreement for a long-term lease of the historic race track property in Great Barrington to commence racing as soon as 2019.
Under the agreement, SSR will refurbish the Fairgrounds property and operate a commercial race meeting at Great Barrington fairgrounds, which hasn't raced in 20 years, while continuing to operate simulcast wagering at its current location in East Boston.
"This is a very exciting opportunity for us to help preserve and refurbish an iconic property in the heart of the Berkshires, to boost economic development in Great Barrington, continue live racing and preserve the hundreds of jobs, associated agribusinesses and working open spaces associated with the Massachusetts racing industry," said Chip Tuttle, SSR's chief operating officer.
Fflos Las under new ownership
Europe: Arena Racing Company (ARC) has bought Welsh dual-purpose racecourse Ffos Las for an undisclosed fee.
The racecourse operator acquired the Carmarthenshire track from Welsh businessman Dai Walters, who developed the site of an open-cast coal mine into a racecourse in 2009. Ffos Las was already under ARC management but now joins 15 other venues in the portfolio of Britain's biggest racecourse group.
A "delighted" Martin Cruddace, chief executive of ARC, confirmed that Walters will stay on as honorary chairman of the track. Walters, for his part, said that the "delivery of Ffos Las racecourse is something I'm very proud of". He conceded that ARC would be "able to get better fixtures than we did because it can swap them around" as well as more "non-racing opportunities through staging large music concerts".
"Good luck to them," he added. "I'm sure they'll be successful. I'm very happy with the outcome and want them to be a success. We built it and will support them as much as we can. We didn't have to sell it, but we found it was hard work trying to get fixtures."
Racing industry's significance to New Zealand's economy
Oceania: New Zealand's racing industry was responsible for generating more than $1.6 billion in value-added contribution to the New Zealand economy in the 2016/17 season, according to this Size and Scope report released earlier this year.
The New Zealand Racing Board commissioned a study into the size and scope of the three codes of racing (Thoroughbreds, harness and greyhounds) in July 2017. The study quantifies the economic, employment and social contribution that the New Zealand Industry generates.
The economic output generated by the New Zealand racing industry was directly responsible for sustaining 14,398 full-time equivalent jobs across the nation. In total, there are more than 58,100 individuals involved in the NZ racing industry as employees, participants or volunteers.
In 2016-17, breeders there spent more than $380 million on the production of racing stock, and more than 614,600 attendances were recorded at Thoroughbred, harness and greyhound race meetings in New Zealand.
Al Basti Equiworld to back Dante Stakes
Europe: York Racecourse has signed a three-year extension to its commercial partnership with the Dubai-based business Al Basti Equiworld.
The Malih Al Basti-founded company will be the new sponsor of the G2 Dante Stakes and G2 Middleton Stakes, both of which are staged on the middle day of the Dante Festival. It replaces bookmaker Betway as the sponsor of the key Derby trial.
Lord Grimthorpe, chairman of York Racecourse, said: "The Dante is a race that regularly showcases a real equine talent, so it is very exciting news that Malih and the rest of the team at Al Basti Equiworld share my enthusiasm for this famous contest."


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Omanye Money Launches First International Mobile to Mobile Money Transfer Service by SMS and IVR.
13 January 2014.
OmanyeMoney today announced the commencement of its international mobile remittance services to Airtel Money wallets in Ghana.
In another first, Omanye Money customers can now transfer funds directly from their mobile phones to Airtel Money wallets in Ghana. Transfers are instant, secure and can be conveniently effected by sms and Interactive Voice Response (IVR) from customers' mobile phones, wherever they are, 24/7. Online and agent transfer services are also available. Cash out options include: cardless card withdrawals at Fidelity Bank ATMs in Ghana.
Airtel Money subscribers who receive Omanye Money Transfer transactions in their MobileMoney account will be able to use the funds to pay bills or make cardless ATM cash withdrawals at any Fidelity Bank ATMs and 2,5000 Airtel agents across Ghana.
Omanye Money account holders who receive Airtel Money transactions in their account will be able to use the funds to pay bills, send international top ups, shop online, transfer money internationally or withdraw at ATM and agents locations across the world.
TO SEND MONEY BY SMS TO AIRTEL MONEY, customers will text: "Te2A*sender account number*amount*receiver airtel mobile number*sender's security code" to: +44 2033 222 695/+1 202 601 3949. Transactions by SMS can only be effected from the mobile phone number linked to the customer's Omanye Account.
TO SEND MONEY BY IVR TO AIRTEL MONEY, customers will call +44 2033 222 695/+1 202 601 3949 and press '5' on the dial pad and follow the voice instructions. Transactions by IVR can only be effected from the mobile phone number linked to the customer's Omanye Account.
To transfer funds online or from the Omanye Money mobile site, Omanye Money customers log in to their OmanyeMoney account; then, from the Omanye Account Menu, select 'Send Money,' 'Send Money to Airtel Money,' enter beneficiary's Airtel phone number, amount and submit to complete transfer.
Non customers can sign up online or by texting 'signup' to, or calling, +44 2033 222695 or +1 202 601 3949 (US and Canada) and pressing '3' on the dial pad when prompted.
Omanye Money, known for offering zero Omanye to Omanye charges, low rates, instant, secure and convenient international and domestic payment/transfer services and exceptional customer service, wants to offer its customers the opportunity to send money to millions of mobile wallet users from wherever they are, on any device, 24/7.
"Omanye Money is designed for migrants, travellers, the unbanked and underbanked who can now remotely, load funds and transfer money by sms, IVR, Online, Mobile phones, Call Centres and through agents - Send remittance on the go!" stated Sammy Crabbe, CEO of Omanye. This feature is very consistent with our mission of providing instant, secure and convenient payment and transfer services," he added.
About Omanye
Omanye Money offers fully featured global Personal and Corporate Payment Account solutions that are high-quality, easy to use, instant, secure and convenient at a very low cost. Omanye Money makes extraordinary financial services available to everyone, giving people direct access to their accounts wherever they are, 24/7.
Omanye Money enables the unbanked and under-banked individuals and businesses around the world, especially African Small/Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs), to send and receive money and settle bills electronically from their Omanye Payment account by SMS, Interactive Voice Response (IVR), online, Contact Centres, self-service kiosks and Omanye Agents.
Omanye Limited, 4 Markers Lodge, 35 Lower Range Road, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 2QS, United Kingdom
Office: +44 (0) 207 99 30535
Website: https://www.omanyemoney.com
Read the full story at


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In the first few installments of this series, I looked at the basic hardware and software aspects of using computer sound cards for audio measurements. The goal is to create an inexpensive (less than $200 or so) system that can do a variety of audio measurements, which was previously the exclusive dominion of expensive test gear (e.g., distortion meters, spectrum analyzers, and impedance bridges).
Thus far, I have provided an overview starting with the computer, moving on to the sound card, and some of the software options. Now, we're only a step away from the lab bench, so let's consider the crucial part where the metaphorical rubber meets the road — the interface to the device under test (DUT) that you want to characterize (e.g., an amplifier, a phono cartridge, a CD player, or a loudspeaker).
How do we get the sound card and the DUT to "talk" to one another? The sound card will likely have an input impedance of 10 kΩ or so. It will also have an input and output voltage capability of 2 V or so. The former means that measurement of any circuit with a moderate or high impedance will be loaded down by the sound card (and the cable connecting it to the sound card) and give inaccurate values. The latter means that low-voltage measurements will be compromised by noise, high voltage measurements will overload the inputs and potentially damage the sound card, and low impedance loads or loads that require significant voltage drive will cause the sound card to prematurely stop working.
Audio Interfaces
These limitations aren't as onerous as they might seem at first glance. We can certainly measure preamps, DACs, CD players, and similar line level components without much fuss. Since these are levels comparable to a microphone preamp output, we can also do loudspeaker frequency response measurements without difficulty. But, what about power amps? High impedance circuits? Phono cartridges?
Traditional instruments (i.e., oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, distortion analyzers, wave analyzers, and AC voltmeters) typically feature high impedance (1M or higher) to avoid loading down higher impedance circuits. For different voltage levels, there is generally a stepped attenuator to specify the voltage range, so the instrument has the ability to measure signals in the microvolt range, and then with the twist of a knob, hundreds of volts.
We can add some of these features directly to the sound card measurement system by setting up external jigs. Figure 1 shows the schematic for one that I have already built. It is a unity gain single ended circuit with a 1-M input impedance. The input is capacitively coupled so that DC will not affect the performance of the jig or—in the case of voltages commonly found in tube circuits—burn out the jig and/or the sound card. In my usual low-rent fashion, I built it using point-to-point wiring on a perfboard inside an inexpensive RadioShack project box. I built this as a two-channel device. Typically, I use one channel between the DUT and the sound card's input, since the jig's 1-M input impedance significantly reduces the loading on the DUT compared to the 10 to 20 kΩ of the sound card's direct input. I use the other channel when I need to drive a low-impedance load or one with significant capacitance where the sound card output might be compromised.
The buffers I used (BUF03) are no longer available, but there are several newer parts that will give equivalent or even better performance. You'll want a buffer with low-bias current to successfully keep the input impedance high. An excellent example is the EL5x23 series from Intersil, which has lower noise than the old BUF03s in my interface box.
The Intersil part does not have the BUF03's current capability, but with a 30-mA drive available, it should be sufficient for most applications. If you need more drive (e.g., for applying signal to a highly capacitive load), you can use the EL5x23 to drive the input of a Linear Technology LT1010 buffer. The LT1010 buffer has 150 mA of drive capability, but high input bias current, so its input needs buffering to maintain a high input impedance. If you're using a low-impedance source and don't care about having a high input impedance (e.g., for being driven directly from a sound card output), you can substitute the LT1010 into my circuit by changing the input resistor from 1M to something between 2 kΩ and 4.7 kΩ.
In either case, the output impedance of the buffer will be quite low — the BUF03 is 2R, the LT1010 is 5 to 10R, and the EL5x23 is not specified. However, my measurements suggest that it's under 5R. If you require a higher source Z for a measurement, like 600R for studio equipment, a resistor can be tacked in series with the output. That's the one advantage of the DIY construction that I used compared to a nice PCB—it's easy to add temporary parts for measurement.
For oscilloscopes (and of ten the other instruments), the capacitive loading of a circuit by the test cable to the instrument, which can run in the hundreds of picofarads, can be reduced by using a 10x scope probe. This decreases capacitance to a few picofarads but drops the measured voltage by a factor of 10. Those probes aren't just limited to oscilloscopes — they also can be connected to this interface. The probe will expect the loading of the interface box to be 1M, so this is why that value was chosen. The 10x reduction in measured voltage is acceptable for larger signals and can, in fact, extend the range of measurement for the sound card to 20 V or so. Likewise, you can also buy x100 probes, which will enable you to measure to 200 V. Again, the load on the instrument end of the probe needs to be 1M, so an interface box like mine is a must. And BNC connectors are standard for this application.
Millett's Interface Box
If you prefer a more convenient, more versatile, neater, and lower noise solution (the BUF03 is not very quiet), Pete Millett has designed a nice interface box with switchable voltage range from 200 mV to 200 V, a built-in AC voltmeter, and a choice between single-ended and quasi-balanced inputs and outputs. The interface either amplifies or attenuates the signal so that the sound card is presented with a 2-V signal at the maximum of the selected range of the interface. It uses 0.25" stereo phone plugs for balanced connection to the sound card input and output, and BNC plugs for the DUT's signal output and input. Power is taken from the computer's USB port.
One issue I have with the Millett interface is that its input impedance is 100 kΩ rather than the 1M I would prefer. Millett's logic is that higher input impedance could potentially lead to more noise. I am unconvinced since his chosen input amplifier is the OPA2604, which has extremely low input current and current noise. Likewise, the input impedance is shunted by the DUT's source impedance, so that would be expected to reduce the effect of the input impedance on the interface's noise. If you do what I suggest (and Millett has updated his webpage to mention it, along with his reasons for not recommending it!), increase the values of R4 through R7 by a factor of 10.
As a practical matter, when I did this, I couldn't see any significant increase in noise. And the 1 M input impedance enables us to use the 10x probes with a greatly reduced capacitive loading on the DUT. If you think all your measurements will be of low impedance sources, use Millett's specified values. Remember that using the 10x probe will change the voltage ranges shown on the selector switch and AC voltmeter by a factor of ten. The balanced outputs are provided by DRV134 differential line drivers, so the source impedance is about 50R and current drive is up to 50 mA.
As with any sort of measurement, grounding of the measurement interfaces, sound card, and DUT can be a bit of trial and error. I found that if I powered the interface from a battery pack, I had an easier time avoiding ground loops and noise. A stack of four D batteries gave me 6 V at the power input, and my test setups became much quicker to optimize.
All in all, I would strongly recommend starting out with Millett's interface for speed, flexibility, and expediency. If it had been around 10 years ago, I probably wouldn't have bothered building my own. If you're ambitious, you can play around with upgrading the op-amps and line drivers, altering some of the grounding, and building a battery pack, but that's somewhat gilding the lily. My own build of this box omitted the internal voltmeter, which made the construction a very inexpensive proposition (see Photo 1).
A Question of Balance
Measuring small signals is even more of a challenge. Noise pickup and gain are the key issues. Analog Devices (ADI) has come up with a terrific solution aimed toward the microphone market — the SSM2019 balanced input audio preamplifier. This chip can run balanced or unbalanced inputs (which is useful if your sound card only has single-ended inputs). The chip also has impressive common-mode rejection and can be varied in gain from 0 dB (unity gain) to 60 dB (gain of 1,000) by selecting a single resistor. It has a single-ended output and boasts outstandingly low input voltage noise (about 1 nV/rt Hz).
This is perfect for looking at the output of a microphone or phono cartridge — a 10R gain setting resistor will give a gain of 1,000, which is suitable for most applications like this. For other gains, use the resistor values recommended on the SSM2019 datasheet (see Resources).
Figure 2 shows the circuit I used. The diode bridge at the input is for overvoltage protection. The type of diode used is noncritical, but try to find one with relatively low leakage and reverse capacitance. I used UF4007 because I had a drawer full of them. The power supply is also noncritical. As before, I used batteries to prevent any possible ground loops. I also built my unit on perfboard and housed it in a small project box. The input connector choice is yours. For convenience, I used XLR connectors. I plan to use this interface in some demonstration measurements discussed in a future article in this series.
Things to Come
Next month, we'll delve into a bit of the basic math to understand Fourier Transforms at a level that will enable us to choose appropriate software settings for good distortion and frequency response measurements. ax
Analog Devices, Inc., "Self-Contained Audio Preamplifier, datasheet, 20111,
Intersil, "12 MHz 4-, 8-, 10- and 12-Channel Rail-to-Rail Input-Output Buffers," datasheet, 2010,
Linear Technology Corp., "LT1010," datasheet, 1991,
P. Millett, "Sound Card Interface," www.pmillett.com/ATEST.htm
SSM2019 Audio preamplifier - Analog Devices, Inc. | www.analog.com
EL5x23 series - Intersil | www.intersil.com
LT1010 buffer - Linear Technology Corp. | www.linear.com
OPA2604 Op-amp and DRV134 differential line driver - Texas Instruments, Inc. | www.ti.com
This article was originally published in audioXpress, September 2015.
Read Part 1 | Read Part 2 | Read Part 3


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Natixis Footprint in Asia Pacific
Natixis wishes a Happy New Year and a successful business year to its Chinese clients! 2014, the Year of the Horse, is also the 20th anniversary of Natixis' presence in China, as Natixis settled its first office in Hong Kong in 1994.
More globally, Natixis has a strong footprint in the Asia Pacific region with nearly 600 employees in 12 countries: Australia, China, Korea, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.
Natixis provides its best expertise in Wholesale Banking and Asset Management to Asian corporate and institutional investors.
Our clients can benefit from our expertise to finance their operating cycle (corporate loans, global transactional banking, money market treasury) and optimize their risk management (interest rate derivatives, Forex and commodities). They also take advantage of our position as 15th asset manager worldwide1.
The largest ever cross-border acquisition in the US by a private Chinese company
Natixis acted as Original Mandated Lead Arranger, underwriter and bookrunner in the USD4bn financing provided to the Chinese company Shuanghui Group for the acquisition of Smithfield Foods in the US. Both Shuanghui Group and Smithfield Foods operate in the meat processing industry.
This landmark transaction represents the largest ever cross-border acquisition in the US by a private Chinese company. The general syndication closed successfully on December 9, 2013 with 23 new lenders joining the transaction, for a total amount raised in the Asian loan market of more than USD1.1bn.
Major deals
Durable Portfolio Construction in Asia
Natixis Global Asset Management, 15th asset manager worldwide1 offers to its Asian clients its multi-affiliates expertise and its Durable Portfolio Construction philosophy: our risk-focused approach goes beyond conventional asset allocation to address the modern market challenges of low interest rates and high volatility: http://www.durableportfolios.com
Our offices in Asia (Beijing, Seoul, Tokyo, Taipei, Hong Kong and Singapore) address its funds, according to markets: sovereign wealth funds, public pension funds, financial institutions and retail investors.
Assets under management raised in Asia increased by 17% in 2013.
The US Asset Managers Loomis and now Harris have now raised meaningful business across the region. For example, the launch of Daiwa Harris US fund reached more than US$400m in August.
The first Durable Portfolio Construction Symposium in Singapore
Natixis Global Asset Management held its first Durable Portfolio Construction Symposium in Singapore last November. Nearly 200 investors attended. The symposium featured expertise from Loomis, Harris, Natixis Asset Management and H20. The number of attendees shows the interest of investors in the investment approach of Natixis Global Asset Management.
1 2013 Cerulli annual survey based on Assets under Management


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Fiery-310 Color workflow and setup
Establishing the proper color setup in your workflow to ensure you get the best color output is essential for your business today. Fiery Driven Printers are known for providing great out-of-the- box color and includes built-in support for print industry standards. This course guides you through the Fiery color workflow and how to customize it to achieve the best color results for your documents.