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Tuesday, 14 November, 2000, 15:27 GMT
Aceh calls for 'Timor-style' vote
Tens of thousands of people have taken part in an independence rally in the Indonesian province of Aceh.
A meeting of separatist leaders at the gathering approved a declaration calling for an East Timor-style referendum on independence.
It came just days after another mass rally in the town which left at least 30 dead after police opened fire on demonstrators.
The declaration agreed by the independence leaders on Tuesday also demanded:
Separatist leaders called on the people of Aceh to stage a week-long strike from 27 November if the demands were not implemented.
Meanwhile, police have urged the government to call off the current ceasefire with the Aceh rebels.
He accused the separatist Free Aceh Movement of abusing the truce which it signed with the government in the summer.
"We are running out of patience. We have done our part to obey the humanitarian pause [truce], but they continued to attack police and soldiers, even when they were praying," he said.
General Saaf said 75 soldiers, 108 policemen, and 660 civilians had been killed and hundreds of others wounded in separatist violence since August 1998.
Rebel leaders said earlier this week they were pulling out of peace talks with the government in protest at escalating violence by the security forces.
The separatist conflict, which has been raging since 1975, has left thousands dead.
Last week, tens of thousands of people took part in a two-day rally in Banda Aceh to call for independence.
Eyewitnesses and human rights groups said police and troops opened fire on civilians trying to reach the town.
Independence activists said at least 50 people were killed, while police put the figure at 30.
Security forces said they had been defending themselves from attack.
Correspondents said police and troops stayed away from Tuesday's protest in Banda Aceh.
However, the organisers said roadblocks were put up outside the city and people travelling to the demonstration were turned back.
Reports said the crowds dispersed peacefully after the rally.
See also:
10 Nov 00 | Asia-Pacific
Violence feared at Aceh rally
25 Nov 99 | Asia-Pacific
Analysis: Indonesia needs Aceh
13 Sep 00 | Asia-Pacific
Analysis: Indonesia's fragile archipelago
05 Oct 00 | Asia-Pacific
Aceh rebels fingered over Jakarta blasts
25 Sep 00 | Asia-Pacific
Aceh truce extended
08 Nov 99 | Asia-Pacific
Acehnese demand independence
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Paul Elzinga is a freshman Exercise Science and Biology major, writing minor, athlete, and Bradley Building staff member. Paul started working for The Mirror as a Sports Editor his first semester at Lakeland, and has now found a new fascination in feature writing for the Mirror.
Paul Elzinga, Staff Reporter
|Apr 18, 2012
Cheever gets men's tennis team's first win of the year (Story)
|Apr 12, 2012
Men's tennis swept in season's first match (Story)
|Apr 05, 2012
Lakeland men's volleyball will look to claim national championship (Story)
|Feb 23, 2012
New coaches Galla, Bukowski look to create top contenders (Story)

subset: commoncrawl


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Boy Meets Truck
MY EARLIEST DRIVING MEMORIES ARE TRUCK memories. I grew up on a farm, which meant we had a pickup. No bourgeois station wagon for us: The family auto was a three-quarter-ton GMC regular-cab, christened Brownie for its burnt-ochre color. In summer, we'd plunge across churning rivers to secret camping spots. In winter, we'd crawl along icy roads to ski Purgatory (now Durango Mountain Resort). But Brownie was a dangerous beast in bad weather—its rear end was overly light and given to fishtailing in snow. I inherited it in high school and often found myself suddenly slipping off the road to crash axle-deep into snowbanks.
Trucks have come a long way. These days, the best are stylish inside and out, handle as well as cars and can still haul lots of stuff. Just take a look at the completely redesigned Ford F-150 or Nissan's first full-size truck, the remarkable Titan. These two are shaping up for the automotive equivalent of a bare-knuckle brawl, with customers being the sideline benefactors. Both companies made big investments, and neither wants to give theother an edge. You can pick up base models of either for prices in the low $20s, or go fully loaded for a tag in the mid-$30s.
I first got a taste of the new F-150 on rural Texas roads. It was instantly clear that Ford hadn't screwed up its flagship vehicle, which has been the top-selling truck in the U.S. since 1977 and the top-selling passenger vehicle since 1981. Every aspect of its design is good to great. Like a boxer headed up to the next weight class, the new F-150 has bulked up, with a wider stance and a higher hood line. It resembles a miniature big-rig, aggressive and clean. Consumers get two choices of engine: a 4.6-liter (with 231 hp and 293 lb.-ft. of torque) or a5.4-liter V-8 (300 hp and 365 lb.-ft.). The interiors are nice. The top-model Lariat could even be described as luxurious.
But it's the way the F-150 handles that's most pleasing. The throttle in the automatic transmission is seamless, and there's heady torque coiled in the truck's haunches, waiting to be summoned. Steering is responsive, and only moderate body roll belied the 5,606 pounds of my massive SuperCrew Cab test model. I took it off-road and was relieved to discover that Ford hasn't compromised performance. The new frame is nine times stiffer than current models, and the suspension is world-class. An electronic throttle controls steep descents.
The company offers the F-150 in a dizzying 1,500 combinations. I don't envy customers having to choose between five models, three bed sizes and three cab sizes.
NISSAN, MEANWHILE, IS OUT TO BUCKLE THE champ's knees with its firstfull-size pickup. Nissan and Infiniti have recently churned out brilliant designs, and the Titan flouts tradition with a funky chrome front fascia and a rounded, svelte profile. Think Ali to the F-150's Foreman. The performance specs are dead-on: a 5.6-liter V-8 with 305 hp and 379 lb.-ft. of torque. The Crew Cab leads the class in headroom and foot room. And skiers will like the optional Vehicle Dynamic Control, which senses slippage and applies brakes to maximize traction.
On a test drive through spectacular California wine country, I pushed the Titan hard. It, too, is nimble and car-like. Acceleration is superior to that of theF-150, though its body-roll is more pronounced. I liked the no-nonsense interior and the center run-through console.
I thought it best not to plow through vineyards, but I suspect that the F-150is better suited for off-road use, given its greater rigidity and superior suspension. The Titan's gee-whiz design, however, truly sings. It has a first-in-class factory spray-in bed liner, which protects both truck and cargo. And its tie-down system of channels and rails in the bed is the smartest I've seen. There's even a power outlet back there. Another neat trick: The rear doors open nearly flush, making it easy to shove in ski gear.
In the end, both trucks are ideal for commutingg and weekend wildness. After driving both, I returned to my childhood home for a visit and took Brownie, still alive, for a spin in the hills. Sentimentally speaking, it'll always be my favorite. But unlike these two performers, I wouldn't take it anywhere near the snow.
See below for info on truck bed covers.


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Swietenia Macrophylla
Meliaceae - The Mahogany Family
Fijian Mahogany
Both Interior and Exterior
Cabinets, Carving, Furniture, Flooring, Interior Trim, Millwork, Mouldings, Shipbuilding, Turnings
As the name implies this material is grown on the Fijian Islands. It is plantation grown with a 30 to 40 year cycle.
Like South American Mahogany the sapwood has a whitish to yellowish color. The heartwood tends to be a reddish orange color, and is sometimes referred to as "pumpkin" in color.
This specie is the same as South American Mahogany. Some people note that the material is slightly softer then other South American Mahogany. The difference is due to the quick plantation growth.


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Creative and Critical Writing
Professor Nicholas Royle reads from his remarkable novel Quilt.
Followed by a discussion with Senior Fiction Editor Vicky Blunden from the publisher Myriad Editions.
York St John University, Temple Hall, 27th March 2015: 3-5pm
FREE booking here; https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/creative-and-critical-writing-professor-nicholas-royle-reading-event-tickets-14373885679
Nicholas Royle lives in Seaford and is Professor of English at the University of Sussex.
His academic writing is distinguished, in unusual ways, by playful language and linguistic invention. Since at least his early teens, when he wrote an abandoned work called The Foresight Saga, he has been fascinated by the strangeness of literature. This fascination has led to the publication of numerous books about literature, including the highly acclaimed Telepathy and Literature: Essays on the Reading Mind and The Uncanny. Despite their 'academic' appearances, such books contain unexpected interiors: Telepathy and Literature ends with a bizarre footnote comprising a short story called 'Telephoning Home'; The Uncanny incorporates several pieces of short fiction. His latest academic work, Veering: A Theory of Literature, also contains numerous embedded fictions and indeed argues for a new conception of the relations between creative and critical writing.
'An intense study of grief and mental disintegration, a lexical celebration and a psychological conundrum… Royle explores loss and alienation perceptively and inventively.' – Guardian
'A book of mythological power. Quilt is unforgettable, like all those great pieces of fiction that are fed by our immemorial root system, the human dream of metamorphosis.' – Hélène Cixous
'Royle's baroque, athletic prose… confers a strong sense of the "strangeness" of English, "which, after all, belongs to no one" and should be continually reinvented.' – Observer
Vicky Blunden is Senior Fiction Editor at Myriad Editions and winner of the IPG Young Independent Publisher of the Year Award in 2013. Myriad is an independent publisher based in Brighton, committed to nurturing new talent and publishing prize-winning fiction.
"Our graphic books explore tough subjects through narrative illustration. Our novels are original works of literary fiction, eclectic, bold and full of character."


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Vertical Suspender Ropes on The Golden Gate Bridge
Download full photo collection Golden Gate Bridge
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In 1993, Mary-Anne and Alastair Robb had to sell their wonderful home in Wiltshire to release much-needed capital into the family business, Marlborough Tiles. This was due to the on-going recession of the early 1990s. Fortunately, the house that they owned at that time – Chisenbury Priory – was snapped up within the first few days of it being on the market, thus enabling a swift move to Somerset, where house prices were lower. Having never thought they would have to move again, they discovered Cothay and the rest is, as they say, "history".
The gardens were laid out in the 1920s by Col. Reginald Cooper who was great friends with all the gardening grandees of that era; Vita Sackville-West, Lawrence Johnston, Harold Nickholson and Gertrude Jeykell. Interestingly the gardens were laid out in 1925, ten years earlier than those of Sissinghurst.


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Harry Barker
Fetch Canvas Bone, Color Green, Large
Sweet and simple, our Fetch Canvas Bone Toy is the quintessential dog chew toy. Made of cotton canvas backed by berber fleece, these stylish stuffed bones are filled with eco-friendly fiberfill made from recycled bottles. They're so cute, you might even call them fetching.
Small Dog Toy - 7.5"
Large Dog Toy - 10.5"


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I woke up this morning to hear of the rail crash in northwest Spain. As I write this (on Thursday) the numbers of dead and injured are large and rising. It is a terrible tragedy. I can't imagine how the families of those affected must be feeling, but I have an idea of the friends. You see, whenever I hear of a tragedy like this, especially a train crash, I'm immediately taken back to the beginning of October 1999.
It is the 6th October, me and my girlfriend (soon to be wife) are on a flight back from holiday. As we board the plane we are offered a selection of newspapers. On the front of each paper is a photograph of train carriages scattered across a busy rail junction, some ripped apart, others still smoking from the fire that had raged through them. I take one and read that the day before, on the 5th October at 8:09 am, the shuttle service to Bedwyn leaving London Paddington railway station crashed head on with the Cheltenham to Paddington intercity train. I turned to my girlfriend and said "Oh Christ! That's the train Charlotte takes."
Charlotte Lund Andersen had moved to my company's Slough office from the US and we'd hit it off immediately. A proud Danish American (she would often go to visit family in Denmark and tell us all about it), tall, slightly gawky as if she had never become used to how much her limbs had grown (watching Lindsay Davenport at Wimbledon years later reminded me so much Charlotte) – Charlotte was both fiercely intelligent and very, very funny. It took her a few months to get used to the British sense of humour (she was coordinated enough to pack a hefty punch to the shoulder if she had thought you had gone too far) but before long she became a surrogate big sister to me and I became her unofficial cultural ambassador to those weird Brits. She had thrown herself into her new life in London and despite the danger of becoming anonymous in such a large city, had formed a good group of friends, both in the Danish ex-pat community and, more surprisingly, at a salsa class.
I called my manager as soon as I arrived home, even though I wasn't due in until the next day.
"I've read about the crash in the Newspapers. Is Charlotte OK?"
There was a moment's silence. "I was hoping we'd have this conversation face to face. Charlotte left home yesterday morning and never made it into work. We've tried contacting her but there is no answer. She's officially missing at the moment but it's not looking good."
It took a few days before the worst was confirmed. Charlotte was in the front carriage of the shuttle train, which bore the brunt of the impact before being engulfed in flames. She was eventually identified by her jewellery and some items of clothing. My memories of that time are pretty vague, a cycle of shock and grief. The one thing that I do remember clearly was being taken to an office on my first day back to be updated on what had happened and what was known, though not much had changed from the day before. Afterwards I went back to my desk and sat staring at my computer, wondering what to do. I eventually realised I couldn't do anything other than wait, so to pass the time I decided to catch up with my work that had built up after my holiday. The red, blinking light from my voicemail caught my eye so I picked up the phone.
"Hi Dylan, I know you're on holiday but I'd really like to speak to you as soon as you're back. Something has come up and I'd like you to hear from me before anyone else. Hope you had a great time!"
It was Charlotte's voice. I can still feel the echoes of the shock I'd felt then, the confusion as at first I thought she was OK, followed by the slow realisation that it had been left days before. I found out later that Charlotte had been told she was being made redundant, part of a cost rationalisation following our takeover by another corporation. I never deleted that message.
A memorial service was held and a number of people spoke about Charlotte and what she meant to them. To my regret, I didn't speak. I don't know why, though I was probably still trying to hide from what had happened. It didn't work. I cried through the whole service and I can still feel the tears pressuring my eyes, looking to well up again as I think back to it now.
In the weeks following the accident, those of us that knew Charlotte dealt with our grief in different ways. I chose to suppress it, to avoid thinking about it, to hide away. Charlotte's then manager, Simon Walters, was the complete opposite. He not only took it on himself to find out what had happened, but worked as the family liaison to Charlotte's parents and sister, both before and after they arrived from the US. He had always been my friend, but I have nothing but respect and admiration for what Simon did, off his own back and in his own time, to help support Charlotte's parents and sister in what was a horrendous time.
So why now? Why write this blog now when the events took place nearly 14 years ago? Part of it is anger; anger with the news broadcasters that whenever there is a disaster they depersonalise the event by concentrating on statistics. I know that in these cases it is impossible to show the full cost to every individual affected, but reducing the story to numbers and images of people crying – or even worse jumping with glee on increasing death tolls as if desiring to see the numbers increase so that it will be a bigger story – is both a betrayal of those affected and a betrayal of those watching. Those who have died and their families and friends deserve more. Much more. Part of it is through guilt; guilt that I didn't do more for my friend's family at the time, that I never said anything at her memorial service, that I shut myself away.
Mostly, though, it is to right the wrong that this beautiful, wonderful, awkward, hilarious, and above all compassionate soul, with her quirky lopsided smile and a handy punch to the shoulder, had an online memorial, talking about who Charlotte Lund Andersen was as a person, at least from this friend's point of view, so that if you google her name you will find more of her than just a footnote on a list of those killed on the 5th October.
We'll never know what would have happened if Charlotte hadn't have died that day. Given that she was going back to the US, we could have lost contact as our lives took us in different directions. I like to think that we would have stayed in touch, though. As it is, I'm 42 years old now, ten years older than Charlotte was when she died and not the callow 28 year old I was then. While I don't think of Charlotte daily like I used to, I still think of her often. I'd agreed with my wife that if we'd had a baby girl, to name them Charlotte after my friend, and one day tell them about their namesake. Instead we had two beautiful boys, though I wouldn't change that for the world. I just wish they could have known her.
So this is it, my memorial to Charlotte, which will be here on the internet as long as the internet exists.


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Job Description
Our client, a global organisation and leader in the finance and technology sectors, is seeking a motivated and numerically astute, Russian speaking graduate level applicant with a keen interest in finance to join the credit control team in a temporary role that is likely to continue for 8 - 12 months. High level customer service is essential, along with the ability to work to high volume at a fast pace using an eye for detail.
Experience of credit control ideal, however high calibre graduate-level applicants with a keen interest in finance and good customer service skills will be considered. Training provided.
The successful individual will be responsible for ensuring the timely receipt of invoices, answering all customer queries (including checking and following up on overdue accounts) and will work alongside internal departments, such as Sales, Communications and Installations to answer clients' queries.
Some experience of working within a high volume Credit Control environment is beneficial, excellent communication and customer service skills are essential, along with the ability to multi task and work to deadlines. Candidates with a successful track record in providing excellent customer service will be considered.
Other responsibilities will include:
- Logging all collection notes on database or the internal ticketing system
- Inventory: Showing clients how to track inventory through reports
- Advising clients of costs and helping them with their own internal budgets
- Analysing MS-Excel spreadsheets to assist clients with their costing and analysis
- Bachelors degree or equivalent work experience
- Fluency in English and Russian
- Fully proficient in Excel
- Invoice processing experience
- Experience of SAP and an internal ticketing system is an advantage
- Keen interest in financial markets
- Experience of client visits is desirable
- Experience of working within a high volume Credit Control environment


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Several months ago I wrote about my personal principles of software engineering. That post was informed by a talk a watched by Peter Campbell. Since then, I have been reflecting how to align various ideas I have been addressing independently up to this point. To help bring these various ideas together I want to start at what I think is the most fundamental and address how to define the principles that drive software engineering efforts.
What are Principles?
A principle is the most fundamental source or basis for something. Principles are the roots of ideas and practices. They are the most basic elements that give shape, structure, and direction.
Religions, governments, fields of study, businesses, and even software systems have their form guided by certain principles. When principles are recognized, accepted, and reinforced a degree of sustainability and stability tends to emerge. When principles go unspoken, neglected, and thus degrade instability and uncertainty emerge until failure, disintegration, or reorganization around new principles occurs.
Characteristics of Principles
One of the key characteristics of principles is that they inform other beliefs or practices. This gets to the notion of being foundational, or basic. Without a given principle it is difficult to sustain other ideas or activities. An example of this building-block tendency that I will draw from my background as a student of Biblical Studies and Christian History is a basic principle that undergirds the Protestant Reformation idea of sola scriptura: the clarity of Scripture.
The principle of Scripture's clarity is derived from certain other beliefs and certain readings of the Bible; but without it, the belief in Scripture as the final and sole authority for all matters of Christian faith and practice would be unsustainable. The principle of Scripture's clarity is the affirmation that the meaning of a biblical text can be clear to the ordinary reader. The implications of this principle gave rise to the efforts that continue today to make the Bible available in every language, the democratization of church life, and much more.
In addition to promoting derivation of other ideas and actions, another characteristic of principles is that they tend to be exclusionary in some fashion. A principle tends to include certain ideas or actions as acceptable, and others as unacceptable. This is best revealed in the way principles of logic work, such as the principle of non-contradiction which holds that a thing cannot be both the same and different from another thing at the same time and in the same sense. So, the principle of noncontradiction excludes the possibility that its opposite can be the case if it is accepted. And, this logical principle informs work down to the present in such seemingly disparate fields as physics and theology.
Principles both promote the derivation of other ideas and actions; and they tend to exclude other ideas and actions as well.
In fields other than software engineering there are other characteristics that principles within that field may possess. But, for the purpose of exploring the idea of principles in software engineering, these two characteristics suffice.
Principles in Software Engineering
In software engineering, there are some specific implications of these two characteristics that bear addressing. Some principles within the field of software engineering can be contrary to each other.
As an example, both brevity and clarity may be reasonable principles to adopt for the production of a software system. But, these two principles exclude the other.
Only when external domain knowledge is available is the more brief code on top equally clear in comparison to the example on the bottom. Code that is brief also tends to require more knowledge of alternative language features, such as the parallel assignment behavior of line three in the top example. Whereas, clear code allows for the expression of what the algorithm is doing, and thus communicates more to the individual coming along later.
In addition to some principles being contrary to each other, in software engineering, some principles can overlap in many respects but be contrary to only a subset of their implications. An example of this, which is very semantic and may seem pedantic, is the distinction between evolvability and changeability.
Both evolvability and changeability involve the notion that a system should be able to change, but that is all changeability necessarily entails. And, so to assert that a changeable system should be able to change in any particular way is not encapsulated within the principle. Evolvability, on the other hand, implies that changes ought to improve suitability for a particular purpose and that those changes ought to be incremental. For this reason, it would be odd to seek to embrace both evolvability and changeability since the former necessitates purpose and practice, while the latter emphasizes mere ability to change. The only thing that undermines this kind of distinction, which can be incredibly subtle, is the matter of presupposed principles.
Presupposed Principles
Some principles can seem so fundamental that they don't need to be stated explicitly. Such principles can include ideas of suitability and operability. If suitability is presupposed to be a necessary principle then the distinction between changeability and evolvability noted above nearly evaporates. But, there is a cliche about what happens when you assume that bears remembering. So, I don't believe we should presuppose principles in relation to software engineering.
I think it is a mistake (especially in a team context) to leave principles, no matter how seemingly basic and fundamental, as assumptions.
Contextual Principles
Another facet of principles with relation to software engineering is the notion of context. Sometimes certain principles are difficult or impossible to sustain in a given context. This relates to the notion of situational ethics, which insists on judging a decision based on the context in which it occurred rather than exclusively on the basis of some objective standard.
Going back to my background in Biblical studies, there is an example of the importance of context that is embedded in the Ten Commandments. The King James Version of the Bible renders the sixth commandment this way.
Thou shalt not kill.
In contrast, the New International Version of the Bible renders the same text this way:
You shall not murder.
Murder and killing are not the same, the latter involves the bringing about of death in any context while the former assumes the context of killing a person who did not otherwise deserve to die. Some principles in software engineering exhibit a similar need for context to make the principle appropriately actionable.
One example of such a contextually bound principle is that of performance. Without context, what level of performance is reasonable and acceptable? Without additional context building software with the principle of caring about performance is not actionable. So, it is important to not merely state the principles one's self or a team believes are important but to also supply any necessary context to make the principles actionable.
Individual and Collective Principles
The final detail of principles I believe is essential is to distinguish between individual and collective principles. When these two are aligned conflict can be better managed and the process of decision-making becomes clearer. But, perfect alignment is not a necessity, so long as differing principles can be helpfully prioritized and do not come into strong, direct, conflict. However, sometimes a mismatch between personal and team principles reveals a mismatch that is best resolved by changes in staff, as uncomfortable as that might be.
Developing Personal Principles
Thinking through our own software engineering principles is at its most basic about what kind of code we like to work with. Personal aesthetics and preferences weigh heavily in this exercise. I recommend thinking about a project you have worked on that was pleasant to modify or add on to. Those two tasks comprise what many software engineers spend a majority of their time doing. Because of that, it is important to think about what principles you believe will have the greatest impact on those tasks.
I intentionally use the term believe, because developing principles in relation to software engineering has a lot to do with what we think is best. I prefer code that is clear with regards to its intentions, which leads me to choose names for classes, methods, and variables that I feel convey lots of detail. I also enjoy working with code that is well-tested, so I emphasize making my own code easy to test. These are the kinds of factors that should be considered when thinking about your personal principles of software engineering.
I suggest starting with no more than two or three such principles. If you can't recall any projects that prompt you to think positively about them, then you'll have to start from something more abstract. This is a much more daunting task because you do not have the benefit of practical examples. One good resource for developing principles from nothing is the list of system quality attributes available on Wikipedia.
Developing Team Principles
Software engineering is not often a single-player activity. Large projects often necessitate an entire team of talented individuals, who likely each have their own ideas about what is best. Investing the time to identify the principles that are most meaningful to the teams you work on can pay extraordinary dividends. Teams that are able to, for example, agree on what such principles as testability, modularity, or deployability mean for their shared context will be less likely to invest effort in activities that are not seen as beneficial by the whole.
Again, I recommend identifying no more than three principles at the beginning. This will keep initial discussions shorter and less intense. Agreeing on the highest priority principles up front should also provide an opportunity to consider the broader priorities of the business or organizational context of the team. Hopefully, this discussion can be had on projects that already exist, or their components, which are pleasant to work on. Even in large, monolithic, projects that a difficult to work in; there are typically areas that exhibit qualities that will be preferable to the team as a whole.
The Value of Principles
Working on software from a set of principles helps guide decision-making by reducing the broad range of choices we are confronted with. Some principles also encourage us to take into account things beyond the purely technical and thus produce code that is more accessible to the others we work with. And, sometimes the principles we embrace are just about meeting our own aesthetic sensibilities. Whatever reasoning exists for the principles we embrace and act on, it is important to hold on to them loosely since the discipline of software engineering is not ruled by immutable rules beyond the need for reconsideration from time to time.
If you want to explore these ideas more I recommend starting with Peter Campbell's presentation from the O'Reilly 2016 Software Architecture Conference in London: Architecture As Belief. And, to get convenient access to this content, and much more to help you stay up to date with the latest technology consider subscribing to Safari Books Online.


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Lovely LIKE NEW spacious 1 bdrm & large den (could be 2nd bedroom) with 2 bathrooms in low rise concrete building in heart of Coal Harbour. North facing with fantastic water & mountain views. Beautifully kept hardwood floors. Gourmet kitchen w/top quality stainless steel appliances, gas range, Corian countertops. Insuite laundry, big insuite storage room, and Juliet balcony. Pets and rentals allowed (bicycle storage) & modest maintenance fee. Unit is like new. Dockside is steps from the marina, Stanley Park, seawall, recreational center, Canada Place, skytrain and transit. 3 level schools near.
This 2 bedroom suite has been converted to a stunning 1 bedroom + den to create a much more spacious living area with a beautiful open layout. Enjoy the spectacular water view. This exquisite Coal Harbour home features a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, hardwood flooring throughout and a custom built walk in closet leading to the ensuite. Take advantage of the Palladio's, fitness & wellness centre and concierge service. Parking & storage too. Experience downtown living at its best as you're steps away from Urban Fare, The Seawall and Stanley Park.
Marinaside Resort Residences. Great open 2 bdrm & den plan, corner suite with circular living room, floor to ceiling windows with views to False Creek Marina & Yaletown. Just steps away from Urban Fare, this apartment offers high end living with its gourmet kitchen, quality appliances, granite counters, gas cooking, designer paint, new engineered hardwood floors & gas fireplace with recently updated surround. This complex offers great amenities such as indoor pool, rec center, fitness facilities & 24 hour concierge.
Beautiful waterfront location! Enjoy the scenic walk along the seawall. Robson street shopping, restaurants, Downtown business centre are well within walking distance. The building offers concierge service, full recreation facilities, and a beautifully landscaped garden. This spacious 1 bedroom features a Southerly facing balcony, gas fireplace, gas cooktop, granite kitchen counter, and quality workmanship. It is in top condition. Move in anytime!
Seldom available - true waterfront location. South with direct view to False Creek, Granville Island, and the marina, this over sized one bedroom awaits your decorating ideas. This is an opportunity not to be missed. Very well managed bldg with proactive council. This is true water - front living.
The Palladio - exclusive address in prestigious Coal Harbour. 3 suites per floor, 24 hr concierge, elegant exterior and landscape, fitness & wellness centrum in the most desirable city location. This bright and open SW facing 2 bdrm + den offers over-height ceilings, corridor views of Stanley Park, custom built-ins, hardwood floors, quality design features throughout, open balcony and two parking spaces. Only minutes from new Urban Fare, Seawall, downtown shopping, dining and the peacefulness of the Harbour. A perfect city home!
Cielo-Coal Harbour. Spacious, NEW air conditioned one bdrm pied-a-terre on the 29th floor with a sunny south western exposure and a large 80sf balcony. Contemporary architecture complimented by Mitchell Freedland designed interiors. Environmentally friendly geo-thermal heat exhange system. The stunning Sky Spa features a professionally equipped fitness studio, a meeting room area, a huge roof-top deck with outdoor whirlpool and an exterior fireplace for your enjoyment. Added convenience of Urban Fare is at your doorstep.
Lovely 1,214 sq ft 2 bdrm hme at prestigious "888 Beach Residences". Enjoy a resort lifestyle just steps the Seawall & the Aquabus to Granville Island. Large living area w/marble faced gas F/P & cozy window bench w/a beautiful corridor view to False Creek & Marina. 18'x11' master bdrm will suit a king-size suite. 5 piece ensuite w/jetted tub, sep shower & dble sinks & granite countertops & has a sep dressing area & plenty of closet space. 2nd bdrm perfect for guests or home office. Exotic cork floors throughout. Dropped ceiling perimeter w/ crown moulding feats extensive flex-halogen pin spots for highlighting your art collection. 24 hrs concierge, I/D pool, sauna, billiards & gym. Pet & rental friendly.
Nicely layout 2 bedroom, new building. Fireplace, stainless steel appliances, granite counter, ensuite, patio, amenities. Centrally located in Downtown. Peekaboo view of Yacht Club.
Sophisticated urban LOFT beside the Seawall. Decor includes architectural lighting & fixtures, black granite, stainless appls, P. Pakel dishwasher, wine fridge, cocktail bar, maple cabinets, brick, rich hardwoods. Form & style, the ultimate loft.
Coal Harbour location! This gorgeous 2 bdrm + den has fabulous water view, H/W flooring, open kitchen with windows & F/P. Steps to park, seawalk and shops. Great waterfront living! Pkg 98 (P3), Storage #3.
Marinaside Resort, corner of Pacific & Expo Blvd., stunning 871 sf, 2 bed, 2 bath NW corner fully furnished suite rented at $4000/mo (to the movie industry). Bonus- 2 park stalls & corridor view of False Creek & Yaletown. Features gas FP,granite counters, open kitchen & small balcony. Furniture included in full price, Mo/Mo tenant managed by Unique Accommodations. Facilities include; I/D pool, Jacuzzi, Sauna, Gym & 24 hr Concierge Service. Go to realtor's website for suite movie, suite pics, floor plans, link to building website & area virtual tours. Best value in downtown for solid concrete at $800/ft, Pets & Rentals OK, Park #332/#333. No locker. Tenant moving out Jan 31/08.
Great value in this sought after and well managed Crestmark. Efficient 2 bdrm plus den floor plan with open kitchen concept, 2 full baths. Quiet location, Southern exposure, and tranquil water views. Original but in pristine conditions. "BETTER HURRY!"
Don't miss this one. Gorgeous view to False Creek. Crestmark I - luxury complex by waterfront w/ gym & pool, corner 2 bdrm + den unit w/ windows & storage. Granite counters, marble entry. Partial water views and city lights. Steps to seawall, park and world class eateries & shops. Open House: Sat, Jan 26th, 12-4pm, Sun, Jan 27th, 11-2pm.
Waterfront living that showcases the dynamic action of the False Creek waterways. South views to Granville Island from every room! One spacious plan, lounging deck with picturesque water views year round. Generous master suite features 4 piece marble ensuite & ample storage. Living at THE ADMIRALTY is a year round vacation at home! Enjoy! Overlooks False Creek, Granville Is, the marinas, Burrard Bridge. Well maintained building, only 44 homes located right on the seawall.
'The Qube' - a truly timeless architectural icon sitting in prime Coal Harbour. This SW 2 bdrm corner unit features beautiful engineered H/W floors, 9'6 high ceiling & panoramic views, a kitchen that boasts architectural series Kitchen Aid stainless steel appliances & thick granite countertops, walled backsplash plus lots of kitchen cabinetry allowing lots of storage. This earthquake-proof bldg has 4 elevators - no waiting needed. Spacious insuite storage & parking. Close to everything. All meas approx to be verified.
'The Melville', a brand new 44 story landmark building in D/T's most desirable Coal Harbour neighbourhood. Built by Amacon. This 1,017 sq ft, open floor plan 2 bdrm offers floor-ceiling windows. Top-of-the-line appliances, quality granite countertops. Fabulous roof top garden w/full amenities, 40 ft outdoor pool, fitness centre, hot tub, sauna & outstanding city, mountain & water views, 2/5/10 warranty, no GST. 24 hour concierge.
Tallest residence in Coal Harbour - Fantastic 2 bdrm & den, granite countertops, insuite laundry, open floor plan, electric fireplace, 9' ceilings, 24 hours concierge, pool, gym & hot tub. Sky garden at 400ft with panoramic views of water, mountain & city.
"The Melville" 2 bdrm & den with open floor plan. Lots of windows overlooking the city. Granite counters. a pride of ownership. The tallest residential residence in Coal Harbour feature full amenities including a roof sky garden @ 400 sf with panoramic views of water, mountain & city view.
Water view property - to False Creek, marina & Yaletown. This barely lived in, spotless like brand new 2 bdrm & den with quality appliances, granite counters, alarm system, hardwood floors. 24 hrs concierge, amenities: Indoor pool, gym room, 40 ft balcony.
Water view & city view. Excellent suite in an excellent building. Upgrade decor. Move in condition. Superb location. Full time concierge service. Close to Urban Fare, Starbuck, community center, one of Concord Pacific prize jewels in the heart of Yaletown.
2 bedroom condo in Coal Harbour with gorgeous view of Burrard Inlet, marina & mountains in all rooms. A super waterfront location only a few steps to ocean, seawall, restaurant & shopping. Great amenities, on site manager, 24 hrs security, I/D pool, exercise, party & billiards room, theatre, 1 parking stall. 2 locker, 2 bicycle stall.
Fabulous view of the Coal Harbour Marina. Beautiful 2 bdrm plus den condo with a great floor plan and close to Stanley Park. Little used 2nd home in building with concierge, guest suite, large pool, gym, sauna, huge rec room, visitor parking.
COAL HARBOUR BEST BUY! Immaculate, 1 owner, 2 bdrm & den with 2 bathrms. This luxurious, centrally AIR CONDITIONED, OCEAN VIEW suite has everything you're looking for. A PRIME semi-waterfront Coal Harbour LOCATION adjacent to Stanley Park & the Seawall, OCEAN & MARINA & MOUNTAIN VIEWS from your LR & O/D BALCONY, cozy GAS F/P, gleaming oak H/W FLRS, modern kit w/GRANITE COUNTERTOPS, high-end BOSCH appls, GAS cooktop, large insuite storage, plus additional underground storage locker, insuite laundry etc. , 24 hour concierge/security, secured parking & insuite alarm system. Very high quality bldg & neighbourhood for carefree living. One of the best locations in town just steps to Robson Street shopping, fine restaurants.
Rarely available 2 bedroom, 2 bath in the OCEAN TOWER with north, south & east views overlooking the gardens, Granville bridge & False Creek. Excellent floor plan offers separate bedrooms, organized closets, kitchen with breakfast room & more! Decorated in warm colours the home is enhanced by Brazilian cherry wood floors in the entertainment area & a gas fireplace. Step out from the master to enjoy sun on the open balcony! One secure parking stall & a storage locker are included. 888 BEACH offers concierge service, full fitness facilities & a prime waterfront location steps to the Seawall, Aquabus & Granville Island Market
Resort living at the Classico! One of Coal Harbour's finest. Views to the North Shore & waterfront. Fabulous 2 bed plus den plan. Corner suite with open balc. Gourmet kit with granite counters & open eating bar. Exc fac incl indoor pool, gym, hot tub & sauna.
Designer quality 2 bdrms suite like the showhome. The best was used in full renovation; the imported German sliding wall doors, burgandy solid wood flring to gourmet quality kitchen. Custom cabinetry and spa like bathrm exude modern Condo. A large open balcony overlooks fascinating False Creek & Granville Island. Rest assured in a respected, well-managed building in a location second to none.
NW cor 2 bdrm & den condo in Coal Harbor w/sweeping views of harbor, marina & mountain from principle rooms & bedrooms. Open kitchen, large in suite storage. Floor to ceiling windows to enjoy the view. Great anenities: I/D pool, exercise, party & billiards room, theater, on site manager, 24 hr security, guest parking & more. Superb location: close to Stanley Park, Seawall, restaurants, Denman street for shopping and community centre plus a healthy contingency fund. 2 towers with 191 units in each. Note 2 parking stalls with 2 storage lockers. Tenanted month to month. Lots of notice required!!! Open Friday Feb 1st, 10-12.
Newly renovated 2 bedroom + den unit facing beautiful water view. Great views of False Creek from balcony. Unit comes with 2 parkings. Extremely well kept. Call for showings!
PENTHOUSE UNIT DIRECTLY FROM THE DEVELOPER - Truly spectacular wide open views of the water, Stanley Park, the city & the North Shore Mountains. This 2 BEDROOM & DEN corner unit features HIGH ceilings, windows on 2 sides & top quality finishes in the Westcoast Contemporary colour scheme. Top of the line features, double thickness granite countertops, hardwood flooring & Kitchens Aid's stainless steel Architectural Series appliances. On the crest of Coal Harbour provides outstanding views & an incredible opportunity to live in this residential landmark. Move in today & net GST IS INCLUDED IN PRICE. TWO parking. Open house Saturday, Feb 2nd, 2-4-pm.
Stunning protected view of harbor, marina, mountain! 2 bedrms, 2 baths & den + 39 sf open balcony in Coal Harbour. Granite counters, gas stove, gas fireplace and laminate wood flooring in living and dining rooms. Amen incl. indoor pool, 24 hr concierge.
The "Classico" in the most sought after Coal Harbour. Immaculate North facing BRIGHT & QUIET 2 bdrms and 2 baths suite with functional layout. Gorgeous mountain & water VIEW from almost every room. Open kitchen with granite countertops, gas stove and stainless steel appliances, gas fireplace. Open & enclosed balconies. Spacious in-suite storage can be used as a home office. 1 parking & locker. Great facilities in the building include indoor pool, exercise room, pool table, guest suite & concierge service. Sellers use it as a vacation home, like new in move in condition. Quick possession is possible.
Rarely available 2 bdrm + den at the "Aqua." Open floor plan w/ floor to ceiling windows to let light in. Gourmet kitchen w/ granite countertops & stainless steel appliances. Also an outdoor balcony. This suite also features insuite laundry, security system & secure underground parking. Pets & rentals allowed. Walking to downtown or the Seawall & across to Granville Island, etc. A great choice for a new home. Great facilities which include 24 hour concierge, theatre, gym, squash court, party rooms, & a business centre.
Brand new landmark tower in Coal Harbour - the Melville, it has a sky garden, pool, hot tub and gym above downtown Vancouver--level 44 (roof-top) this spacious 2 bdrm & den & insuite storage NE corner unit has 9' ceiling, modern finishing in the quiet side of the tower with good corridor water and mountain view, granite counters, gas cook-top, hardwood floor, 24 hrs concierge and full amenities.
NE corner 2 bedroom 2 bath at The Melville, a new landmark tower in Coal Harbour. 9' ceiling, high-end finishing, water & mountain view, sky garden plus pool, hot tub & gym on roof-top, 24 hr concierge. Easy to show. Measurements approximate. PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE: Friday February 8th between 10:00-11.30 AM.
Fabulous views of George Wainborn Park, False Creek & the city from floor to ceiling windows of every room. SE corner, 2 bdrms, den & in suite storage. Great floor plan with lots of light, open gourmet kitchen with granite countertop, stainless steel appliances. Enjoy the open balcony & all the recreation facilities including indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, exercise room, guest suite. One storage locker & one parking stall. Steps to seawall and Yaletown. Fast possession is possible.
Act fast or miss out on this spectacular 1 bedroom and den unit at sought after Cascina. 1 parking, 1 storage, air conditioning, and stunning harbour views. Best amenities: 24 hr concierge, pool, hot tub, sauna, billiards room, theatre, gym & beautiful Japanese gardens. Pets & rentals welcome. Measurements approximate - buyer to verify.
Beautifully maintained 2 bdrm 2 bath with marble fireplace and counters in kitchen and bathrms. Suite overlooks a splendid garden and has excellent view of marina and busy Vanc. harbour. Avila has country club amenities incl. indoor pool, squash courts, cinema, pool rm and more.
Harbourside Park! Coveted 2 br & den in Coal Harbour. Floor to ceiling windows offer smashing NW views of marina & Stanley Park. Beautifully renovated! View! View ready to move in. Bonus 2 parking spots & locker. Open house Fri Feb 1st, 10:30-12pm & Saturday Feb 2nd, 2-4pm.
** The data relating to real estate on this web site comes in part from the MLS Reciprocity program of the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver. Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLSR logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver.


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In previous articles we discussed the history of the kettlebell, more advanced exercises for athletes, and even the difference between kettlebell sport and hardstyle training. After reading through my previous works, I realized I fell short on the delivery of fundamental exercises that beginners (and all levels) should learn and perfect so that they can increase baseline fitness, strength, movement patterning, and foundation for optimal fitness.
The kettlebell is an amazing all-inclusive tool for building muscle, burning fat, and developing cardiovascular fitness and work capacity. The following movements can be performed as stand alone exercises or built into circuits and conditioning segments (I often will mix the fundamental exercises into bodyweight sessions/warm-ups). What's even better is with a single kettlebell (and practice), you can take your fitness to the next level.
The below exercises are by no means the full lineup of "foundational" kettlebell exercises, however they are a great place to start. To challenge yourself further (after you have mastered the ones below), take a look at these top kettlebell exercises for athletes.
Russian Swing
The Russian swing, either done hardstyle (which focuses on a more explosiveness) or the more energy efficient Girevoy sport swing, is a fundamental movement patterning that every individual needs to master before progressing into the world of kettlebell training. Learn this, and you hold the key to kettlebell training.
American Swing
The American swing is the standard for functional fitness competitions. While similar to the Russian swing, the American swing ends with the kettlebell locked out overhead rather than at hip/chest height. In a previous article we discussed the pros and cons of the American swing, with the conclusion that it still deserves a spot in a general fitness program (primary based upon its upper body training and conditioning purposes)
One-Arm Strict Press
This unilateral movement is great for developing strength, stabilization (shoulder and core), and muscular development. With similar benefits to overhead pressing, this kettlebell variation undoubtedly will deliver all the same benefits unilateral training has to offer, while allowing you to build out your arsenal of kettlebell exercises.
Goblet Squat
This front-loaded squat variation can be used to teach proper squatting mechanics, increase range of motion, and even be built into warm-up routines. The goblet squat offers all the same benefits of front-loaded squatting, and is a very natural squatting position for beginners and all level athletes.
One-Arm Front Squat
The kettlebell front squat is an intense and demanding front-loaded squat variation, requiring a high degree of shoulder, core, and scapular stabilization. This movement can develop a lifter for more intense barbell training, as well as set the foundation for more advanced lifts like kettlebell snatches, cleans, and double-rack training.
Lunge (Racked or Goblet)
To balance out the squatting and deadlifting (kettlebell swings fall within the same movement pattern as a traditional deadlift) in this lineup, the lunge (either held in front-rack, goblet, overhead, or any variation) is a fundamental unilateral exercise for the lower body. This can be used with any variation of lunging, in multiple planes of motion.
One-Arm Swing
Learning the one-arm swing offers the same benefits on the traditional swing (Russian) with the added benefits of unilateral training (see hyperlink above). More importantly, it has direct application to more advanced "basic" exercise, such as the high pull, clean, and snatch.
One-Arm High Pull
This high pull variation is a precursor to the clean and snatch, and should be mastered to develop control and timing necessary for the clean and snatch.
One-Arm Clean
The kettlebell clean is a top ballistic total body movement, one that can be built into conditioning circuits, used with heavy loads, or placed into complexes that involve a lot of the aforementioned movements. Some examples of great metabolic circuits that involve the kettlebell clean (as well as the squat and strict press) is Dan John's "Armor Complex".
One-Arm Snatch
In a recent article we discussed the unique benefits of the one-arm snatch (more specifically, the barbell variation). This movement can be implements similarly to the clean, and is a premier explosive total body movement for power, strength, and metabolic conditioning segments.
Loaded Carry (Racked, Overhead, or Suitcase)
Loaded carries are a great way to teach core stability and total body awareness. Whether you use one kettlebell or two, you can vary the carries to diverse your total body strength and awareness, which can impact your overall athleticism and injury resilience.
Final Words
While the world of kettlebell training is vast and can be complicated, this basic level list can help beginners (and all levels) start to develop a stronger and more fit foundation for years to come. As with all training, seek a coach who can assist you when embarking upon your fitness journey, and stay consistent to find the best results!
Editors note: This article is an op-ed. The views expressed herein are the authors and don't necessarily reflect the views of BarBend. Claims, assertions, opinions, and quotes have been sourced exclusively by the author.
Featured Image: @paultimpas on Instagram


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Tag Archives: Wal Mart
RFID to Track PEOPLE?! Cops, Big Government Extremists and Corporate Shills Deny the Possibility
RFID chips are sensors and when they are sprinkled over almost everything their spying ability becomes profound. Wal Mart recently announced that they would be embedding RFID in individual items (including your underwear) and yesterday I posted a sto… Continue reading
Tagged @CLIibertyC #CLCs, ACLU, anti rfid, Axioms for Liberty, Axxiom, Brad Henry, chips, Cleveland, Constitutional Liberty Coalition, Corporate Lobby, dps, Enhanced Drivers License, free enterprise, HB 2569, Kaye Beach, kenenth corn, legislation, Limited Government, Oklahoma Politics, People Tracking, radio frequency, RFID, rfid dust, richard chase, Rusty Rhoades, security industry association, Spychips, students, Surveillance, Surveillance Technology, tracking, trash, Veto, Wal Mart


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The founder, William Morrisette, started the winery with a few acres of vines and bottled the product for fun and friends who started pestering him to make some to sell.
Then David Morrisette, his son took the first viticulture class at Mississippi State and started down the path that has led the winery to become Virginia's oldest and largest, producing 60,000 cases a year, of 19 different wines.
After 20 years in California, with all the wine snobbery inherent in West Coast wine making, I was fascinated to see this massive and very successful winery tucked off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Mile 172. I had never previously seen a crushing operation integrated into the main building and operated as a public spectacle:
I love that idea of having a wine based picnic while watching actual winery operations. I want to go back in September.
Mike was our animated and cheerful guide on the brief tour, showing us the vast fermentation vats cooling the bubbling wines, and rows of oak barrels awaiting their next load.
The winery, all 32,000 square feet of it, is built from salvaged timber found in Washington State. We tasted a dozen of the wines on offer, and though they do produce a couple of gruesomely sweet Mogen David type wines the bulk of the production we found to be sophisticated and very drinkable.
I am rather tired of heavy dark reds and though there was a very dry earthy Merlot the other blends offered a lighter touch and interesting fruity taste. There was an astonishing variety and I could see a red or a white or the crisp rosé on my table for any occasion. I was quite surprised.
Chateau Morrisette Web Page
The winery is located in rural Floyd County to the west of Roanoke.
It is classic mountain terrain, deep clefts, woods and homes scattered alongside the roads.
I found the people we met to be charming and cheerful as usual, in defiance of all the movie stereotypes of surly inbred country folk fearful of outsiders.
Land is abundant and cheap, winters on the high plateau are harsh I am told, though a one bedroom cabin on three acres with a deck and all modern conveniences a few miles outside Floyd itself, was offered at $78,000. Hmm...
The scenery is pastoral in the extreme though 20 miles away there is a movie theater showing Art films not yet seen in Key West.
The roads wind and twist through forests and fields in some most delightful driving.
Who knew Virginia made wine or looked like this?
This isn't high priced California or Key West and all the better for it!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad


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VMware licensing change
Today I received a reminder of the September VMware licensing change. In short a processor may now contain a maximum of 6 cores instead of 4. Prices have not changed.
This is very good news for VMware end users who can benefit from increased processor performance at no extra cost.
Original message:
'Like many software companies that do business globally, VMware consistently reviews its pricing strategy to ensure we are providing customers with pricing flexibility and scalability to meet their diverse needs. VMware's key goal is to ensure customers receive a robust ROI, and competitively priced solution.
Currently, VMware licenses the majority of its products on a per processor basis. Prior to September, 2008 Vmware defined a processor as a physical chip which may contain up to four processing cores. In September, Vmware extended this entitlement to 6 cores. There was no pricing change associated with this entitlement change. The policy change applies equally to customers who have previously purchased Vmware software as well as future purchases. As such, customers are able to take full advantage of increased processor performance for virtual environments without a corresponding increase in licensing cost.'
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- 7 Things You Should Know about licensing Windows 2012 R2 on… by Edwin Weijdema
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What do you do when you fall off the horse? Get rid of that stupid horse and get a better one that you ride to fame and glory. At least, that's what you do if you're GameStop (NYSE:GME). Earlier this week, the company announced that it's going to be closing around 120 of its locations and opening between 300 and 400 stores under its other brands.
Apart from its eponymous brand, GameStop also owns a mobile chain called Spring Mobile, a different prepaid mobile brand called Cricket, and a small set of third-party Apple retail and repair stores called Simply Mac. Under its plan for fiscal 2014, all of those secondary brands will at least double their location counts.
Diversification as a path to growth
Before you start worrying that GameStop is giving up on the idea of video games -- or maybe before you get excited about that idea -- let's put things in perspective. Right now, the company runs a little over 200 non-GameStop stores from the other three brands -- it operates over 6,000 GameStop locations. Even with the closings and the openings, the business will be heavily weighted toward video games.
GameStop's goal is nevertheless ambitious. In its presentation on the shift, the company said it plans to have annual revenue from the other brands -- deemed "technology brands" -- grow from $63 million in fiscal 2013 to $1 billion in 2016. That's a lot of growth, and it would mean the tech brands would account for close to 10% of total revenue.
That growth also means tech brands are going to account for a disproportionate chunk of costs. In 2014, for instance, GameStop is going to put almost a quarter of its capital expenditures toward the smaller tech brands.
Competing with Best Buy
Maybe this is an example of imitation being the sincerest form of flattery. If so, then GameStop must be a big fan of Best Buy (NYSE:BBY). Best Buy has seen the writing on the wall and has diversified its offering in response. The company now manages over 400 Best Buy Mobile stand-alone stores and has been expanding its store-within-a-store concepts, including its Windows and Samsung mini-stores. It now runs over 2,000 of those little guys, combined.
The move by both companies toward mobile brings two things to light. First, online retail continues to change the world, making traditional retailers push for new ways to sell. Adding targeted businesses within its locations has given Best Buy customers a reason to actually come into the store -- focusing on a single range of products is a trend that's only going to increase.
Second, mobile is taking over all of technology. Best Buy and GameStop aren't mobile businesses, but now they need to become mobile businesses. Music, movies, games, and actual work are being done on the go, and no amount of hoping to sell a kid a used copy of Fast & Furious: Showdown is going to make mobile go away.
The bottom line
GameStop's embrace of non-used-games focused businesses is good news for the company. Digital delivery and the rise of the casual gamer means GameStop's core business is shifting under its feet. It can and should try to change with the times, but diversifying into new businesses also makes sense as a hedge.
In addition to buffering its core business, the tech brands should also help even out revenue no matter how popular consoles are at any given time. When the last generation of consoles was on its last legs, GameStop suffered as business dried up with gamers waiting for the next generation to hit the shelves. Hopefully, an increase in mobile and Apple product sales will help it weather the next storm that rolls in, whatever it might be.


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In case your caricature includes pets, cars, detailed buildings or other major detail, we will charge for them as they would be an additional person.
A caricature with a man next to his car, with his dog in it counts as a 3 people job: (man, his own car and his dog).
We will also need a picture of the dog and one of the car along with the main picture.
Write a review to share your experience with others. Your review will be more valuable, if it contains your opinion, not only the caricature description. Readers are interested in your point of view.
Personal Caricatures are a great gift idea. The caricatures are fully customizable and the subject can be drawn in any setting and clothing desired. We can make your caricatures from photos. All we need is a picture of the face and a setting described by you.
The 2 People Caricatures are usually used either as wedding gifts, or for best friends and business partners. Upload your pictures online and let us know how you want to be drawn. We'll do our magic, and you will get an unforgettable caricature.
The Group Caricatures are very popular as bridesmaids or groomsmen wedding gifts as well extremly nice retirement presents or office / team caricatures. We can draw any number of people in a group caricature.
Logo Caricatures are used by businesses that want to stand out and show that they are open minded, thinking out of the box. Great for any business to use on it's website, business cards, ads, business stationary and more.
Avatar Caricatures are usually used on social media websites like Twitter, Facebook and more. They can be also used as email signatures, blogs and other online media.
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Tough for us Prius guys as well, although there really isn't any fun factor in that vehicle.
I asked a gentleman once how he liked his, and he said "It's an excellent transportation appliance."
4 wheels (and a battery) move the body, 2 wheels move the soul
Then they want $520.00 + and tax for a new set of PR4GT's plus install.
Ouch! How much would that be in US dollars?
Thats not bad. I paid $450 and I pulled the wheels myself
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Pardon our dust! Remodeling going on...
Everything seems to be parked except for the TG, even the screws! The parkerizing job is OK but very shallow (looking at the rammer), and I have a recently (2013) parked 1911 that has held up much better.It has no place on a repro C&B revolver. The finish is totally out of place with the grip and the grip screw and escutcheon.I have lost interest in GB because many of the sellers have no real clue, and if one tries to gently correct them, one is usually treated like the red-headed bastard step-child.Found this a few weeks ago. Seller originally called it a Navy Arms 1862 Reb Confederate .36 . I contacted him and told him it was a mismarked pistol and a copy of what we know as a G&G. He changed his description to a G&G.See photo #5https://www.gunbroker.com/Item/751822220It sold for $150, which I think was a fair deal if all the mechanicals are in order.I have just about given up looking at GB BP pistols because of this.I feel your pain, Cap'n!Jim
Terry, back when I first got into collecting BP revolvers on any sort of scale, there was very little (good) info on the internet and you really had to dig for it. Forums such as this have helped that immensely. Nowadays it seems everyone is a "guru" and use that information to try to squeeze more money out of an auction, even though half they time they are only partially correct or completely misinformed.
Thank you for taking time to write out the addys for these. I belong to cast boolits.com,muzzleloading forum.comWill check out the others.Thanks againTerry
No, last I heard was last year some time. Jim was reported to be in poor health at that time, and I believe 81 years of age.
Quote from: Captainkirk on March 12, 2018, 06:03:15 PMNo, last I heard was last year some time. Jim was reported to be in poor health at that time, and I believe 81 years of age.That is unfortunate as he is a wealth of knowledge. Ageing seems to be one of those things we can escape only by dying.
I have been informed that Dr. Jim Davis passed last September.


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Shovel Knight coming to Nintendo Switch
We're one day away from Nintendo's big Switch event but Yacht Club games has one Switch game announcement, Shovel Knight. The original game is coming to Nintendo's new console along with its upcoming new campaigns. Yacht Club announced this on their site by saying:
Happy New Year, loam lords! This year we have big plans for Shovel Knight! There's a lot of news, so let's dig in! Announcement time!
Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove and Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment will be released for Nintendo Switch!
What's Treasure Trove? Well its more Shovel Knight! Sadly they won't say more about it, adding this:
Back to the main story! Soon, the game you now know as Shovel Knight will become Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove. When that happens, you'll also have new options to purchase each campaign as separate, standalone games on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC/Mac/Linux, and Nintendo Switch:
Its good to see co-op not being tied to Amiibo and the games coming to Switch. Shovel Knight just keeps getting better every year!


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Definitions (2)
Use series in a sentence
" You may want to try and figure out if a series can be the right investment for you to try to take on. "
" You should try and figure out what series would be best to invest in and then hope it goes the right way. "
" I really enjoyed the brand new series that was on television and thought it was really cool and fun to watch. "


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Since launching its Securities Helpline for Seniors in April, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority said it has received more than 2,500 calls (lasting an average 25 minutes!) and helped senior investors recover close to $750,000 in voluntary disbursements from FINRA member firms.
In a Wednesday report on the helpline, FINRA said callers, who ranged in age from 22 to 100, voiced concerns about products such as variable annuities, mutual funds, real estate investment trusts and, most recently, energy sector securities.
The helpline aided FINRA in identifying several emerging scams, including fraud centering on taxes, bogus lottery winnings and binary options, all of which were flagged by FINRA and resulted in the self-regulator issuing investor alerts.
The helpline callers—who hail from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, Scotland, Vietnam, Israel, Ireland and the United Kingdom–also sought help on how to review an investment account statement and access investor tools and resources (such as BrokerCheck) to assist them with lost securities.
The most calls came from Florida, California and New York.
More troubling concerns were raised regarding potential unsuitable recommendations, fraud, or illegal activity involving brokerage accounts and investments, as well as abuse and exploitation of seniors by persons outside of the securities industry, the report notes.
(See FINRA Proposes Rule for BDs to Help Stop Elder Fraud.)
The toll-free helpline, staffed by FINRA employees, seeks to resolve callers' issues as quickly as possible, with frequent follow-up calls needed to glean additional information and documentation.
In October and November, helpline staff conducted more than 2,000 follow-up calls with investors, firms and third parties to pursue and resolve investor inquiries, the report notes.
If an initial assessment uncovers "serious misconduct" by a securities industry professional, FINRA opens an investigation. The self-regulator also refers to federal and state agencies those matters that fall outside its jurisdiction—and has made more than 75 such referrals since the helpline launched on April 20.
Separately, FINRA has made 50 referrals to Adult Protective Services (APS) in those instances where staff observed indications of abuse or exploitation.
(See How the Big Firms Are Training Their Advisors to Handle Elder Abuse.)
In one case noted in the report, an elderly investor's accountant called the helpline after finding a suspicious document among his 86-year-old client's tax receipts. FINRA launched an investigation and discovered the client's broker had borrowed $220,000 in 2012 and was repaying her $1,200 a month.
"FINRA notified the broker's firm and within 10 days the firm terminated him," the self-regulator states. "Separately, FINRA barred the broker from association with any FINRA member firm for his failure to cooperate with its investigation of his activities. The firm, previously unaware of the loan, made the client whole on the remaining balance owed and included a nominal interest amount."
For other non-investment questions, staff frequently refers callers to AARP.
FINRA said it launched the helpline because of the growing incidences of financial scams targeting the elderly.
"FINRA created the Helpline to provide assistance to senior investors for concerns they have with their brokerage accounts and investments, and I am incredibly pleased with the positive impact it has had in just a few short months," said Susan Axelrod, FINRA executive VP of regulatory operations, in releasing the report. "The Helpline has also served as a tremendous source of information as we actively engage with seniors, learn of and respond to issues they are experiencing, and use this real-time intelligence to inform our regulatory programs and provide effective practices to firms."
See these related articles:


text: I had forgotten I had done this. And I think I have it on my website!! I tinkered with it a bit. I like the look of it now as drawn on grey paper with highlights add to it. Did the original drawing in my sketchbook a few years back but the additions were done in ArtRage.


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Generally speaking, agencies led by account service professionals tend to struggle creatively, and agencies led by creative professionals tend to lack strategic vision. Creative Noggin not only brings a strong balance of both strategy and creativity, but Tracy Marlowe, the "strategy leader," continually pushes for great creative. And Trish Rawls, the "creative leader," can't even begin the creative process without a strong strategic foundation.
Not only do the agency owners bring over 40 years of experience to their clients, but because Creative Noggin operates 100% virtually, we hire and contract only veteran advertising and marketing talent. This includes account executives, production artists, traffic managers, writers, designers, media planners, research consultants, social media and public relations professionals. We simply don't have the set up to train, monitor and nurture unproven talent. We also find that the most experienced advertising professionals don't work for large agencies—they work for themselves. Our network of top-notch veterans ensures we will hand select a dream-team to work on your projects.
Our business model utilizes a limited staff of full-time employees. This allows us flexibility to contract from a pool of veteran freelance talent in order to shape the perfect teams for our unique client mixture—and compensate only when there is work to be done.
We work completely virtually, so we don't incur the overhead costs involved with a traditional office lease. While we're not the cheapest marketing choice, this keeps us from being the most expensive. Our workers love the commute, too!
Our principals are incredibly zealous about responsive service. When they first joined forces, they made a commitment to always provide prompt service and keep projects moving without the cumbersome internal processes they'd both experienced at traditional agencies. The entire team is constantly communicating and tracking projects using the latest software and online tools so everyone stays on the same page — including our clients.


text: The color photo shown above is a 3-tier tea cake caddy from the Queen Mary. It has 3 removeable silver trays used to serve tea cakes, cookies, or what the British call "crumpets" to passengers at tea time. One steward would serve tea or coffee on a tray while another offered crumpets to enhance the famous British tradition. The B/W photo shows a young girl choosing the delectable from the caddy held by a steward. Whether in the public rooms or in deck chairs outside, every passenger was served. These caddies are quite rare today which is curious in the fact that there must have been hundreds for use by stewards. This example is nearly perfect with only a few dings in the 3 trays which can be expected for a silver piece used daily for her majesty's 31-year career.


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Sheldon Richman
Campaign For Liberty
July 12, 2010
Fiscally speaking, the U.S. government has been running a disorderly house for some time. That makes the fiscal crisis in Greece an uneasy portent for Americans (as Steven Horwitz points out here).
Just contemplate some of the numbers. The total federal debt is nearly $13 trillion, $8.6 trillion of which is held by the public (with the rest held by government entities). (These are conservative estimates, since many government obligations are not counted.) GDP is something over $14 trillion. That ratio of debt to GDP isn't pretty. "The CBO estimates that at the end of 2020 publicly held debt will be a staggering $20.3 trillion — 90 percent of GDP — with total debt being notably higher than that," Horwitz writes.
As for the budget deficit, the Congressional Budget Office projects it to exceed a trillion dollars this year and next, bringing it into the neighborhood of 10 percent of GDP. This comes on top of a 2009 deficit of $1.4 trillion — the government spent a buck-ninety for every dollar it collected. The deficit is projected to fall in the years following 2011, before resuming its growth in 2015 and beyond. By 2018 it will be back over $1 trillion, assuming these estimates are not wildly optimistic. Remember, ObamaCare has not kicked in yet.
According to the CBO, the Obama administration will create $9.75 trillion in deficits over the next decade.
Compare with Greece: Its accumulated debt is 113 percent of GDP, and its budget deficit last year was 12.7 percent of GDP. Greece needed to sell bonds to obtain the money to pay debts come due, but lenders were too nervous to lend the money at rates the Greek government can handle. So Greece needed a bailout in the form of cheaper loans from the European Union and International Monetary Fund ( a k a American taxpayers), conditioned on budget austerity (spending cuts and tax increases), which in turn incited violent street demonstrations by government employees, who have benefited from high deficit spending for years.
If we want to avoid the Greek experience, which could spread to other EU countries in the future, the U.S. fiscal house will have to be put in order. Contrary to what the policy elite is thinking, this does not mean raising taxes, which would impede economic activity and make conditions worse.
- A d v e r t i s e m e n t
- {openx:49}
So if the deficit is to be eliminated it will have to be through dramatic budget cutting. In the current fiscal year the federal government is planning to spend $3.55 trillion. Among the largest categories of spending are Social Security (19.63 percent); unemployment/welfare/other "mandatory" spending (16.13 percent); Medicare (12.79 percent); Medicaid and the State Children's Health Insurance Program (8.19 percent); and interest on the national debt (4.63 percent).
Of course I've left out a category, but it's one often ignored by deficit hawks: the Department of Defense. It comes in at 18.74 percent of the budget, or $663.7 billion. (More about this number below.) For some context, the 2009 Pentagon budget was almost as much as the rest of the world's military spending combined.
More than a Trillion
For fiscal 2011 President Obama has asked Congress to appropriate $719 billion for the Pentagon, a 4.5 percent increase over the current year. But as Robert Higgs points out, "few appreciate that the total amount of all defense-related spending greatly exceeds the amount budgeted for the Department of Defense."
Writing about the 2009 Defense Department budget of $636.5 billion, Higgs states: "Lodged elsewhere in the budget, however, other lines identify funding that serves defense purposes just as surely as–sometimes even more surely than–the money allocated to the Department of Defense. On occasion, commentators take note of some of these additional defense-related budget items, such as the Department of Energy's nuclear-weapons program, but many such items, including some extremely large ones, remain generally unrecognized."
Those other items include the departments of Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs, and programs within the Energy, Justice, and State departments. Higgs also calculated the share of the interest on the debt attributable to past Pentagon spending: "Adding this interest component to the previous all-agency total, the grand total comes to $1,027.8 billion, which is 61.5 percent greater than the Pentagon's outlays alone."
The grand total will be well above a trillion dollars in the current fiscal year also.
"Owing to the financial debacle and the ongoing recession," Higgs sums up, "millions are out of work, millions are losing their homes, and private earnings remain well below their previous peak, but in the military-industrial complex, the gravy train speeds along the track faster and faster."
Worldwide Presence
It's no mystery why so much is spent on the military. The U.S. government maintains close to a thousand military bases around the world and is engaging in two foreign occupations, not to mention less formal campaigns in Pakistan and elsewhere, including covert operations that never make the papers. This costs money. The Iraq and Afghan occupations consume over $12 billion a month. USA Today reports that the Pentagon has spent $620 billion on the Iraq invasion and occupation, America's longest military adventure ever, and more than $190 billion on the operation in Afghanistan. Other estimates are higher, as much as $300 billion for Afghanistan, according to U.S. News and World Report. More spending has just been approved in Congress.
The fiscal question is whether, in the face of the huge national debt and multiyear trillion-dollar budget deficits, we can afford a "defense" establishment more befitting an empire than a republic. That's not the only question, however. We must also ask if a society that claims to value free enterprise can long endure the economic disfigurement that inevitably accompanies a large military-industrial complex?
Small-government men from Richard Cobden to William Graham Sumner to Robert Taft would have said no, as does their political heir, Ron Paul, today. As for whether slashing military spending would deny us needed protection, one could as well ask whether we are safe today with policies that risk "blowback," bankruptcy, and monetary disarray.
One cannot help but conclude that James Madison had it right:
Of all the enemies to public liberty war is, perhaps, the most to be dreaded, because it comprises and develops the germ of every other. War is the parent of armies; from these proceed debts and taxes; and armies, and debts, and taxes are the known instruments for bringing the many under the domination of the few… . No nation could preserve its freedom in the midst of continual warfare.
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"Taste of Atlanta Tuesdays" Neighborhood Dinner Series Sponsored by Springer Mountain Farms
As food aficionados eagerly anticipate Taste of Atlanta weekend Oct. 21-23, the organizers behind the city's signature food festival have whipped up the ultimate culinary amuse bouche in advance — Taste of Atlanta Tuesdays, a series of four weekly five-course paired tasting menus in some of the city's most iconic neighborhoods created by some of Atlanta's finest chefs. It's all served for a wallet-reassuring $85 per dinner, tax and tip included.
On Tuesday, September 13, Chef Michael Perez of Colletta at Avalon will create an amazing, 5 course tasting menu, paired with wine, cocktails and craft beer. This is your chance to discover some of the most creative cuisine in the city and meet the amazing culinary talent that calls Atlanta home.
The dinner begins at 7 p.m., and Chef Perez will visit every table to discuss the sumptuous flavor profiles he has created for the night's menu. Reservations are limited.
Additional Dinner Series Locations:
Chef Michael Perez's tasting menu:


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Grownup Name for a Baby
Dear Jennifer:
My husband and I are expecting our first child in the spring. We don't want to find out the sex in advance, so we are trying to choose names for both genders. We both know we'd like to honor loved ones, both living and deceased, and are pretty much set on the name Douglas Matthew (after his uncle and my husband, respectively) for a boy. My husband has his mind set on Gloria Jean (after my and his maternal grandmothers, respectively) for a girl, but I'm struggling with it a bit. I actually think it's a beautiful name for an adult, but it seems so sophisticated for a baby/child. So, I'd like to get your outside, expert opinion. Here is my two-part question: 1) What do you think of the name Gloria Jean; and 2) Can you recommend any cute nicknames that are less sophisticated for a child?
Thanks so much,
Dear Jennifer (great name!),
Thank you for your kind words. Addressing your concern about the "adult-like" name Gloria, my view is quite the opposite: I don't like giving diminutive or nicknames to children just because it will be cute when they are young. I believe a name should grow with the child and be sophisticated enough so they can use it as an adult.
The only problem I have with Gloria Jean is that it's the name of a coffee shop chain–at least here in the West! If you don't mind that, I think it's a fine name. As for nicknames, Glo is cute, so is Ree, Ria, or Gigi.


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(Number of Payment Periods Left x Payment Received per Period) + Property Value (If it will be sold)
Visit the Calculating Value in Real Estate Page to learn how to value properties using calculations such as CAPM, NPV, and Capitalization Rate.
Sage Resources Investment Terms & Information
Note & Sale Contract
For this type of property that we are marketing, we pair both the investment property note and the contract to sell the property to a current home-buyer that is in the process of purchasing the home. The investor will gain the rights to all future cash flows, as well as the property in the likely event of the home-buyer walking away from the contract.
Note & Rental Contract
The investor purchases the note to the investment property as well as the rental contract for the current tenant. The investor is entitled to all future cash flows related to the rental contract and the home.
Note Without Contract
Properties listed under this category currently don't have any sale or rental contracts. The investor purchases the note to this property and is free to do what they please with the property to generate income.
Advantages of the Sage Resources Contract
- Investor is not a "landlord"
- The real estate investor that has advantage that our contracts provide does not have any liability for expenses related to maintenance of the property or property taxes while the home-buyer or renter honors their contract. The contract requires that the home-buyer or renter pay for maintenance, taxes, utilities, etc.
- Very solid contract with maximum benefit to the contract holder.
- Out contracts have been tested and have been proven to be resilient in court. The benefit is on the side of the real estate investor because our thorough contract was created to limit risk.