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When it comes to Valentine's Day wines, take the advice of John Johnson, owner of The Wine Rack (2632 Frankfort Ave.): "You don't want to screw up," he says. "And you don't want a bottle that looks like you got it off the bottom shelf at a drug store. You need an extra edge to make it memorable."
If you're trying to get lucky (and, really, who isn't?), Johnson suggests an $18.99 bottle from Southern France's Gérard Bertrand winery. It's called a Cremant de Limoux Brut Rose. I can't pronounce it either. Again, let Johnson explain: "It's a French sparkling wine," he says. "It has wonderful red berry and floral notes on the nose, along with hints of rising bread."
Johnson says the wine is a blend of 70 percent Chardonnay, 20 percent Chenin Blanc and 10 percent Pinot Noir. "It pairs quite well with everything from shellfish to spicy Asian cuisine," he adds. "If you wish to share it with your valentine over chocolates and strawberries, it's equally ideal for that as well."
You also may enjoy: Prom for Valentine's Day


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|From Album 5
Thursday, April 03, 2014
Aged Whine
Posted by Michael at 7:20 PM
1 comment:
Ah yes, do not ever even think of being the least bit critical of those poor lil' Koch brothers. Why, don't you fool "liberals" understand how much they truly care about those peons who work for them? Don't you realize how they stay up late every night worried sick about the health and well being of those employees and the entire planet? Good grief people, these rich bastards love you.ReplyDelete
OK, now that my sarcastic bit is done, onto the real stuff. This chicken shit, thin skinned asshat needs to grow up.What a spoiled brat. What a damn coward. I'll close with this, he is a nasty, spoiled rich brat who never did anything to earn his wealth, it was all inherited from daddy.
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subset: commoncrawl


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The Houston Heights Woman's Club will hold its Second Annual Hortense Ward Appreciation Luncheon 11 a.m., Saturday at the Clubhouse, 1846 Harvard.
The luncheon will honor a female graduate of South Texas School of Law with special guest speaker Houston Community College Board Chair and Trustee Yolanda Navarro Flores. Seating is limited and reservations are required.
Here's some information about Ward and the luncheon from the club:
Hortense Ward, (pictured above) a Houston Heights resident and an early Houston attorney, one of the first female attorneys in Texas, obtained the club's charter in 1912. She spoke at the first meeting in the new clubhouse, championing the Married Womans' Property Act which she had co-authored and worked to ensure the passage of by the Texas Legislature in 1913. Upon signing the bill, the Governor presented Ms. Ward with the pen he used.
Tickets are $25.00. Please make checks payable to HHWC Night Group and mail to P.O. Box 7782, Houston, Texas 77270. For more information, please contact Laura Virgadamo at 713-826-8105 or firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Funding can be fun and easy.
Who we are
HelpMyCause is a simple platform to assist raising funds for an idea, business, project or charity.
Our mission
We believe in accessibility. We think raising funds should be simple as 1-2-3 for everyone.
We want people anywhere in the world to raise funds stress free.
We raise funds on behalf of many causes worldwide.


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Trip Reports (And Eileen Chimes In) – Pickleball Coming to Barley CreekEileen
Morning at our house. Our dog, Barley, jumps out the window to get the newspaper (don't worry; it's porch level), Eileen is already in her office working, and I'm cooking up breakfast. Usually, I like to keep Eileen informed by yelling out interesting (he means random) stuff about life, philosophy, and the next big thing. (This morning's Trip Report: Taking a hot bath is just as good as doing exercise!) A few months ago, I yelled out a single word: Pickleball. Apparently, that was interesting enough to get Eileen out of the office for a conversation that will change your summer:
Eileen: Pickleball?
Me: Pickleball!!
Eileen: Okay.
So, what does that mean for you? Pickleball is coming to the Pint Size Park! What exactly, you may ask, is pickleball? It's the fastest growing sport in the country. (So, I guess that makes it a pretty big dill.) A cross between tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball can be played by just about anybody, no matter their fitness level. (Even people who do all of their exercise in bathtubs?) Plus, it fits in with our Pint Size Park sports philosophy: only sports you can play while holding a beer. Barley Creek's new pickleball court is getting painted this week and will be ready for the official opening of the Pint Size Park on June 3. So, get ready to get pickled this summer. (I relish that joke.) Cheers!


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We hope the year 2020 has started off well for you, and wanted to bring a brief update of some of the changes around Google Search since our last episode. We aim to do this in our YouTube Series called Google Search News.
In the January 2020 episode, we cover:
We hope you find these updates useful! Let us know in the video comments, or on Twitter, if there's something we can improve on.
Structured data schemas such as schema.org and data-vocabulary.org are used to define shared meaningful structures for markup-based applications on the Web. With the increasing usage and popularity of schema.org we decided to focus our development on a single SD scheme. As of April 6, 2020, data-vocabulary.org markup will no longer be eligible for Google rich result features.
As a preparation for the change and starting today, Search Console will issue warnings for pages using the data-vocabulary.org schema so that you can prepare for the sunset in time. This will allow you to easily identify pages using that markup and replace the data-vocabulary.org markup with schema.org.
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Figure out exactly who is selling comparable cars to yours in your area. You need to know exactly what's out there for competition. So if you're selling a mid-model 2008 Honda Civic, you want to know every Honda Civic between 2007-2009 that is for sale in a 100KM radius. This can easily be done through searches online in Craigslist, UsedEverywhere, Kijiji or similar.
Find the selling price of these vehicles and KMs and anything else that might make them attractive to customers.
Make sure your vehicle is priced competitively. If the average price of the vehicles for sale is $11000 and your asking $13,000 no one will ever buy your vehicle. Forget what you paid for it, or what your neighbor tells you it's worth – the market dictates the price. If your neighbor thinks it's worth $13,000 maybe he'll buy it? — you get the point
Have your vehicle be the cleanest vehicle anyone goes to look at. You can spend $100 on a detail and you will probably get $200-500 more for your vehicle and sell it quicker. People shopping for a car unfairly have the tendency of devaluing dirty vehicles.
Take some of the best photos you've ever taken. Show it from the front, the back, the side, and every where in between. Celebrate it's perfection and embrace it's flaws. That means if there is a small scratch on the back take a picture of it and mention in it in the ad. Wording such as "This is a small scratch on the front bumper – I was going to pay $200 and get it fixed and charge $200 more for the vehicle, but the next buyer can decide if he wants to fix it or would rather save the money".
This does two things – let's them know ahead of time, so there are no last-minute objections when they come look at the car, and gives them the idea that they're saving money instead of buying a damaged vehicle.
Write a descriptive article about your vehicle and mention everything great about it for options etc. Don't be cheap either – if there's an option for $10 for a top ad or a featured ad – DO IT!!! You'll sell your car quicker and probably for more money – Spend $10 – Make $200 More?? I think so…
When someone comes to look at your vehicle – if you've stated everything that is right and wrong about it, they should only be coming to test drive it and buy it. People typically don't want to shop for a vehicle for weeks, and months and years.
"Are you ready to buy it?"
Seems simple, but it can be tough to ask for someone's money. You don't have to feel like you're pressuring someone. Know your time is worth something and you want to do them a favor and stop their shopping — let them get on to better things like enjoying your used vehicle!
Your online application takes only 3 minutes to complete and we only ask for information we actually need.
Or feel free to call us at 1-888-865-6402


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The Faculty's profile areas include environmental, marine and life sciences. The base in environmental science is varied and comprises most subject areas with several dynamic research programmes.
Prominent research environment in many different subject areas, for example marine sciences, systems biology, climate and polar research.
The Global Student Satisfaction Awards empower students across the globe to determine the best universities of 2019. By rating institutions on a scale from 1 to 5, on multiple studies-related questions, we found the top educators in the world.Learn more about the Global Student Satisfaction Awards
The Faculty Office of Science provides support to the faculty board, faculty management and the activities within departments and infrastructures. The mission of the office is to provide support for research, education and cooperation conducted within the Faculty of Science.. The office is a specialist function whose tasks include for example:
Those coming to the University of Gothenburg from abroad have a number of options when it comes to finding accommodation. However, there is a great deal of demand for accommodation, and you should be prepared to be flexible in terms of considering various types of accommodation to begin with.
As an exchange student, you can get help applying for accommodation see under Exchange Student Housing Services for more information.Free movers must find an apply for their own accommodation. Most students find a place to stay via Boplats Göteborg, the marketplace for rental apartments in Gothenburg.
There are eight libraries, two learning centres, and one National resource library (KvinnSam) which together constitute Gothenburg University Library.
Health care AkademihälsanYou can turn to Akademihälsan with any health problems you may have during your studies. Akademihälsan is the students occupational health service. It acts as a complement to other health and medical services. It is free for students.
Some of the biology departments are located near the Sahlgrenska Academy, an arrangement that provides a favourable base for the life sciences. In this area, the Faculty of Science and the Sahlgrenska Academy work together to stimulate common areas, such as cell and molecular biology. There are modern and well-equipped facilities for research in natural sciences and biotechnology at the Lundberg Laboratory.
Fitness centres FysikenThere are two student fitness centres in Gothenburg, with a wide range of activities, such as aerobics, ball sports, gym, dancing, water aerobics, outdoor pursuits, and a variety of courses. As a student you are entitled to a student discount membership.
The environmental management system at the Faculty of Science was certified in accordance with the international standard ISO 14001 in November 2005.
The study is still ongoing and i do have a wonderful experience nourshing my knowledge so as to offer quality enevironmental services and be part of the solution to global environmental challenges such as pollution and climate change
Sincerly speaking, the experience was full of new knowledge the, i improved alot of my speaking skills, also it is a university that requires hardworking, and i am glad that i had the chance to have this pleasent experience


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Amid faltering multilateralism and growing inequalities, regional partners shared mixed results in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals today, as the High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development considered how best to support peer-learning among countries and stakeholders in efforts to create a better world for all by 2030.
The Forum tasked with monitoring global efforts to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development also held a thematic review of perspectives from societies, examining both gains and challenges to achieving Goal 12, on ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns.
A thematic review on lessons from the regions featured presentations by and a discussion with officials from regional commissions, who agreed that success hinged on urgently addressing shortfalls, narrowing gaps and ensuring inclusive approaches.
However, challenges were mounting, said moderator Alicia Barcena of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). A looming trade war and a global political conservative movement are exacerbating efforts to achieve the Goals, she said, amid trends showing that advances in gender equality are being reversed. Moreover, eight companies had amassed the greatest proportion of global wealth at a time when public spending is being cut.
Emphasizing that such issues could be addressed by collectively creating solutions, she said a new development model must be forged, with consumption and production patterns transformed. Rather than fragmenting the Goals, a new direction could recognize the critical links among them, with all targets being indivisible.
Lead discussant Alma Sinumlag, Programme Officer at the Cordillera Women Education and Action Research Center, stressed that efforts must include addressing systemic barriers to achieving justice and reducing inequalities. While her indigenous community in the Philippines remains committed to fostering that change, corporations have captured language of renewable and clean energy for their own profit. Urgent attention is needed to combat regional and global trends showing increased militarization of indigenous peoples' land and criminalization of their communities.
Presenting regional findings, panellists described mixed progress. Some highlighted areas that need swift, effective attention to prevent a reversal of gains made.
Vera Songwe of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) said growth is on the rise, but high levels of extreme poverty continue, with projections showing that, by the end of 2018, 3.2 million more people will be living in extreme poverty. Action is urgently needed to change that trajectory and capitalize on the continent's vast potential.
Mohamed Ali Alhakim of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) said that to address water scarcity and inequalities in the workforce, efforts must seek to increase financing for development, public-private partnerships, cross-border issues, technology and innovation and data collection.
Kaveh Zahedi of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) reported that mixed progress in some areas, such as reducing inequalities, has actually reversed gains in some countries. Current trends must be reversed to reach targets in such areas as gross domestic product (GDP) growth, greenhouse gas emissions and forest coverage. Also, the current rate of progress must be maintained to reach targets related to maternal mortality, access to electricity and mobile network coverage.
Olga Algayerova of the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) said complacency is not an option. Challenges include creating more dynamic, resilient and inclusive economies, reducing environmental pressures, using resources more sustainably, improving connectivity within the region and developing new forms of mobility. Attention is needed to address persistent gender bias, environmental pressures, energy efficiency and the loss of biodiversity. Progress also must be made in areas where the region has global responsibilities and addressing disparities among member countries.
The High-Level Political Forum will reconvene at 10 a.m. on Friday, 13 July, to continue its work.
Thematic Review
A discussion on Implementing the Sustainable Development Goals: lessons from the regions was chaired by Council Vice-President Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa), moderated by Alicia Barcena of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and featured the following panellists: Vera Songwe, Economic Commission for Africa (ECA); Mohamed Ali Alhakim, Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA); Olga Algayerova, Economic Commission for Europe (ECE); and Kaveh Zahedi, Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). Lead discussants were Tatyana Valovaya, member of the Board (Minister) of the Eurasian Economic Commission, and Alma Sinumlag, Programme Officer at the Cordillera Women Education and Action Research Center (Asia-Pacific civil society mechanism).
Mr. MATJILA introduced the panellists, welcoming a constructive dialogue.
Ms. BARCENA said regional level efforts shed light on needs, providing guidance for future action.
Ms. SONGWE, outlining lessons from Africa, said growth is on the rise, but high levels of extreme poverty continue despite some progress in this area. With projections showing that, by the end of 2018, 3.2 million more people will be living in extreme poverty, action is urgently needed to change this. In addition, inequality persists as does Africa's inherent vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. Moreover, there are high rates of degradation and depletion of land, water, forests and biodiversity resources, upon which 62 per cent of the population depends for food, water, energy, heath and livelihoods. Rapid population growth rates and urbanization must be well managed as trends are set to escalate requirements for employment, food, water, energy and shelter. As such, boosted efforts are needed in broad areas, including the provision of clean water, sanitation and affordable and green energy, managing climate change consequences and unlocking Africa's renewable energy potential. In addition, efforts must target the building of sustainable cities and communities while fostering responsible production and consumption as well as protecting and restoring land and ecosystems. Challenges include a limited awareness of the inter-relationship between the Goals and existing international commitments.
Mr. ALHAKIM, presenting a slideshow on developments, said 60 per cent of the Arab region is under age 30. He noted a range of challenges in achieving the Goals, including that women make up only 20 per cent of the workforce. Many countries face water scarcity and many Governments are conducting voluntary national reviews to provide more detailed information. Examining the submitted voluntary reviews, he said observations highlighted a need to focus on boosting financing for development, public-private partnerships, cross-border issues, technology and innovation, and data collection. Going forward, it is essential to find regional solutions to challenges the region faces. Efforts are being made to forge partnerships, including among the League of Arab States, financial institutions, academia and civil society. ESCWA is a platform for such discussions, having held the Arab Forum for Sustainable Development and a ministerial session and having actively reached out to schools, media outlets and civil society to engage stakeholders.
Ms. ALGAYEROVA said the institutional process to mainstream the Goals into national plans across Europe is underway, with two thirds of members having already presented voluntary national reviews at the Forum in 2018. However, we cannot be complacent, she said, noting that much progress is needed to address disparities across the region in many areas and where the region has global responsibilities. For instance, Goal 3 on health, some countries are doing well while others lagged behind. Similarly, on Goal 6 on water, scarcity in some States is a major challenge. Equitable access to water and sanitation also remains an issue in some countries in which low proportions of the population are using safely managed drinking water services and climate change is exacerbating water-related tensions. Challenges include creating more dynamic, resilient and inclusive economies, reducing environmental pressures and using resources more sustainably and improving connectivity within the region and developing new forms of mobility. Attention is needed to end persistent gender bias, relieve environmental pressures while boosting energy efficiency, and address the loss of biodiversity. Advancing gains on the Goals will require updating and developing a set of norms, standards and guidelines that shape international cooperation and guide public and private efforts in support of sustainable development in multiple sectors.
Mr. ZAHEDI, providing a snapshot of the current situation in Asia and the Pacific, said progress is mixed. In some areas, such as reducing inequalities, gain have been reversed. The current rate of progress must be maintained to reach targets regarding maternal mortality, access to electricity and mobile network coverage. In addition, current trends need to be reversed to reach targets in areas including gross domestic product (GDP) growth, greenhouse gas emissions and forest coverage. Presenting a slide show with further information, he noted that countries with low- and middle-income status have mortality rates that are four to five times higher than in high-income countries. Moreover, in 2017, the region accounted for 43 per cent of all registered disaster events and 68 per cent of all fatalities in the world. Up to 35 per cent of the population in affected areas is likely to fall below the poverty line as a result of disasters. For its part, ESCAP is working to promote ways for countries to move forward towards achieving the Goals, having published the Regional Road Map for Implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in Asia and the Pacific.
Ms. BARCENA said Latin American and Caribbean countries are making inroads into realizing the Goals, however multilateralism is faltering. A looming trade war and a political conservative movement are exacerbating efforts. Even in gender equality, achievements are probably backsliding. Income inequalities are also a concern, with eight companies comprising the largest proportion of global wealth at a time when public expenditures are being cut. Such challenges could be addressed by collectively creating solutions. Foreign direct investment or remittances are not going to solve the problem. More innovative mechanisms are needed. The model of development, as well as consumption and production patterns must change. Challenges include recognizing the critical links and implementing the nexus approach. Instead of fragmenting the Goals, a new direction would recognize the critical links and ensure all targets are indivisible. Her region must continue its efforts to measure progress, she said, noting that 19 countries have submitted voluntary national reviews.
Ms. VALOVAYA said ongoing activities are making inroads into achieving a range of goals, including on energy efficiency and forging global partnerships. In developing partnerships, she proposed that the next Forum feature a side event on regional integration and cooperation. In her region, indicators for comparison with other partners should be developed.
Ms. SINUMLAG said empowerment efforts by her indigenous community in the Philippines are blocked by systemic barriers. The language of renewable and clean energy has been captured by corporations for their own profit. Regionally and globally, a growing patriarchal trend has led to the militarization of indigenous peoples' land and criminalized their communities. Businesses are putting profit over people and efforts must address systemic barriers to achieving justice and reducing inequalities.
Following the presentations, participants discussed their concerns, with some countries sharing ways to bolster regional progress and others highlighting the need for an inclusive process that enhances cooperation.
The representative of Senegal said the need for a broad range of programmes to improve conditions in many African countries is clear. However, it is also important to boost subregional and regional cooperation to ensure success at the country level.
The representative of Togo, agreeing, said regional cooperation with his country had already resulted in gains made in a range of areas, including in providing water, sanitation and electricity services to a growing number of households.
The representative of Mauritania, however, said such gains must be expedited through increased international assistance and national investments in critical areas such as the provision of electricity to rural areas.
The representative of Sweden said many communities lack a voice in the decision-making process. By including these unheard voices, better policies and decisions will be made.
The representative of the major group for workers and trade unions similarly said the space for discussions has been shrinking, with people being scared to represent their interests. This must be addressed across all the Goals and the International Labour Organization (ILO) must be brought in to lend its perspective and ensure an inclusive approach at the regional level.
The representative of the major group for children and youth said the Forum must become a genuine space for learning and follow up of recommendations of the voluntary national reviews. He also proposed more time for thematic discussions, adding that youth must be included in such fora.
The representative of Iraq, noting that his country lags in attaining the Goals in part because of terrorist attacks, asked ESCWA for assistance in addressing such shortfalls.
The representative of Viet Nam said that, despite some gains toward building a sustainable, resilient society, the consequences of climate change continue to create challenges. To achieve all 17 Goals, Viet Nam requires technical and human resources and strengthened cooperation, with knowledge exchanges.
Also speaking were representatives of Belarus, Iran, Benin, Chile, Mexico, Morocco, Georgia, Lebanon, Iraq, Israel, South Africa, Uganda and Lesotho, as well as the State of Palestine and the European Union. A representative of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) also participated.
A discussion was then held on the theme Perspectives of society: Session organized with major groups and other stakeholders, chaired by Mr. Matjila and moderated by Luisa Emilia Reyes ZuAiga, Programme Director of Policies and Budgets of Equality and Sustainable Development, Gender Equity: Citizenship, Work and Family, as well as Co-chair of the High-Level Political Forum Coordination Mechanism (women's major group), who also delivered a keynote address. Panellists included: Haydee Rodriguez, Executive Director, Union de Cooperativas de Mujeres Productoras Las Brumas (Sendai Stakeholders); Ruben Zondervan, Executive Director of the Earth System Governance Project at Lund University, Sweden (science and technology major group); and Jolly Amatya, Secretariat of United Nations Major Group for Children and Youth. Vitalice Meja, Coordinator/Civil Society Organization Partnership for Development Effectiveness Co-Chair of Reality of Aid Network Africa (financing for development civil society group), and Berry Vrbanovic, Mayor of Kitchener, Ontario, Canada (local authorities major group), were the lead discussants.
Ms. REYES said that, from one perspective, the Forum appears to be a festive space for Member States to share experiences and present their voluntary national reviews. But, stakeholders have been seeing the dark side, including attempts at intimidation, harassment and censorship, as well as efforts to limit the expression of legitimate concerns. It is time to make Member States aware of that, she said, emphasizing that there are several ways in which they can absorb stakeholders' concerns. Noting that the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development contains structural challenges, she said trade, economic and financial dynamics must be addressed. Stakeholders are ready to share many proposals in that regard, she said, appealing for the Forum to be more accountable and fit for purpose.
Ms. RODRIGUEZ, speaking on behalf of the Sendai Stakeholders Group, said the Goals cannot be achieved without addressing disaster risk. Speaking from her own experience in Nicaragua where she is part of a grass roots women's agriculture cooperative she said investment in community infrastructure, such as forest and water resource management, helped build resilience, promote economic growth and women's empowerment, and protect natural resources. That, in turn, raised awareness of disaster risk while steering development away from high-risk areas. Communities used risk information to prioritize efforts and engage with local governments. Good practices, tools and expertise are shared with neighbouring communities, as well as regionally and globally. Noting that her cooperative's efforts are recognized by the Government of Nicaragua, she said its model worked only where there is a political commitment to engagement. The reality, however, is that such efforts are still the exception, not common practice, she said, urging countries to take a risk-informed approach and to meaningfully engage locally focused stakeholders.
Mr. ZONDERVAN, speaking on behalf of the science and technology major group, said it is alarming that scientific ability is unevenly distributed around the world. To achieve the 2030 Agenda, it is necessary to fill gaps, create capacities and strengthen the production of scientific knowledge, particularly where such knowledge is under presented. Emphasizing the importance of coherence, he pointed to a guide published in 2017 by the International Council for Science that showed how action under one Goal can reinforce progress with other Goals. The degree to which the Goals and their targets are achieved over time will be the test of the widely assumed hypothesis that a higher degree of institutional integration will advance Goal achievement. He went on to underscore how, through teaching, the scientific community is contributing to the Goals. Most scientific knowledge creation is taking place in universities, where scientists are also teachers. Their students will be the ground-breaking scientists, innovative entrepreneurs, sustainable business leaders and representatives of Member States and civil societies for decades to come.
Ms. AMATYA, speaking on behalf of the children and youth major group, said the current economic paradigm of growth for growth's sake must be reoriented to one that internalizes social and environmental externalities. There must also be progress towards accountability frameworks for the Goals that emphasize transparency. The systemic development finance problem must be fixed, she said, calling the much-talked-about concept of partnerships unsubstantiated hype given the absence of an agreed definition or governance framework for public-private partnerships. She suggested that the Economic and Social Council convene a process to ponder, evaluate and define common standards for public-private partnership. She went on to suggest that new innovative and sustainable investment mechanisms be created to tackle the financial resource gap while combating such systemic issues as tax havens, illicit financial flows and financial speculation. Incentives for a green and circular economy must be created, too. Noting that the institutional capacity of local government in the global South is very weak, she wondered how to make local government a first career choice for the next generation of young professionals.
Mr. MEJA said community-level ownership and engagement in the 2030 Agenda must be enhanced. That is the only way to build resilience, he said, adding that careful thought must be given to ways to empower communities to design projects that will change lives. There has been insufficient investment in this regard, he said, adding that progress on the Goals was not just a matter of reporting, but also a matter of political accountability and clarity.
Mr. VRBANOVIC, from the local authorities major group, said a silent constructive tsunami has been occurring, with local governments taking ownership of the 2030 Agenda and implementing it, often without the required means. Local and regional governments are making significant efforts to foster local ownership of the 2030 Agenda and their involvement in implementing the Goals is growing. Progress, so far, has been remarkable, but full ownership requires strong joint efforts, clearer high-level government support and stronger alliances, he said, adding that local and regional government participation in the preparation of voluntary national reviews must be improved.
Following the presentations, speakers stressed the role of partnership, collaboration and inclusion in working towards the Goals.
The representative of the older persons stakeholder group said not enough priority is being given to ageing and older people in sustainable development planning. There must be greater recognition of the need for human rights to underpin the implementation and review of the Goals.
The representative of the persons with disabilities stakeholder group said that such persons face a lack of accessible services of any kind in small cities and rural area. In times of disaster, persons with disabilities are four times more likely to die, she added, calling for their fundamental rights, including civil and political rights, to be highlighted.
The representative of the local authorities major group said learning cities those, which, among other things, promote inclusive learning from basic to higher education and foster a culture of life-long learning demonstrate how the Goals can work at the local level. Education for resilient cities is not only about preparing people for whatever happens, but to help them become proactive and to be masters of their own lives.
The representative of the indigenous peoples' major group emphasized the barriers posed by political and economic systems in enabling them to achieve the Goals. Indigenous peoples are rights-holders and must be given priority, she said. They are protecting the planet and it is time for the world to listen and learn from them.
The representative of the workers and trade unions major group said the 2030 Agenda could be a vehicle for privatization and maintaining the status quo, or it could provide an alternative to the neo liberal narrative. Governments must address the question of wages and decent work if they are serious about addressing poverty, she said, adding that multi-stakeholder processes cannot replace collective bargaining. She went on to say that 2018 would see a tsunami of trade unions descend on the United Nations for Goal-related meetings. Let's ensure that the Goals put people over profit, she added.
The representative of the non-government organizations major group said momentum towards achieving the Goals is being lost due to the challenge of simply working together. Emphasizing that no one issue fits neatly into one finite box, she called on stakeholders to work collaboratively and holistically, not just to solve problems, but also to address deeper issues that cause delays. Human rights must be at the heart of action, she added, rather than a politically charged term.
The representative of the women's major group said women bear a disproportionate burden of development failures. Space is closing for civil society, with women's groups being criminalized and harassed in person and online. Members of the women's major group are doing creative work in the areas of implementation and accountability, while, at the same time, sharing knowledge broadly. Feminists worldwide are pushing for progress, breaking barriers, putting people over profit and leading the change that everyone needs, she said.
The representative of the business and industry major group stressed the importance of partnership between major groups. More and more companies are striving to report on their Goals-related efforts, he added.
Ms. RODRIGUEZ said that what is most important is to work tougher through partnerships and platforms to strengthen resilience. She also pointed to the differences in the challenges faced by cities and the countryside.
Mr. ZONDERVAN said local contextual scientific knowledge is needed to feed the global discourse on sustainable development. All too often, that discourse is being shaped by those with the capacity to do so. He also emphasized the need for scientific freedom. More and more, scientific facts could be inconvenient, with alternative facts providing a way out for those who disagree with them.
Also speaking were representatives of Norway, Mexico, France, as well as the European Union, and the representative of the Asia-Pacific Regional Civil Society Organization Engagement Mechanism.
Review of Sustainable Development Goal Implementation
In the afternoon, the Forum held a discussion on Goal 12 � Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns, chaired by Council Vice President Inga Rhonda King (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines) and moderated by Elliot Harris, Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development and Chief Economist at the Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Panellists included: Nur H. Rahayu, Director of Forestry and Conservation of Water Resources at the Ministry of National Development Planning of Indonesia; Petra Bayr, Chair of the Sustainable Development Committee in the Parliament of Austria; Jane Nyakang'o, President of the African Roundtable on Sustainable Consumption and Production; and Ulf Jaeckel, Head of Division of the Federal Ministry for the Environment of Germany and 10-Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Consumption and Production Patterns Board Member.
Lead discussants were: Amy Luers, Executive Director of Future Earth and Julius H. Cainglet, Vice President for Research, Advocacy and Partnerships of the Federation of Free Workers (workers and trade unions major group). Peter Thompson, the Secretary-General's Special Envoy for the Ocean, delivered a keynote address, and Shaswat Sapkota, Statistics Division of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, provided a snapshot of Goal 12.
Mr. SAPKOTA, providing a statistical snapshot of activities related to Goal 12, said developed countries have at least double the per capita footprint of developing countries, whose raw materials are being extracted to support consumption patterns of richer nations. But, changes have occurred, he said, pointing out that 93 per cent of the world's 250 largest companies are now reporting on sustainability, as are three quarters of the top 100 companies in 49 countries. In addition, by 2018, a total of 108 nations had national policies and initiatives relevant to sustainable consumption and production, including many in sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America.
Mr. THOMPSON delivered the keynote address, saying that Goal 12 is intimately linked with all the other Goals, being an enabler of the pack. Consumption and production patterns shape the world's balance with the environment. Progress in needed in that regard and on dealing with climate change. Renewed trust and partnerships are required between the private sector, Governments, consumers and citizens.
We can find our solutions in the unstoppable move away from fossil fuels to renewable energy through solar, wind, thermal, wave power and so much more technological innovation that lies ahead of us, he said. There is great hope to be found in the development of circular economies with emphasis on recycling, re use and end-of-life management. Meanwhile, the success of environmentally sound international conventions, such as the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, fortify our resolve to pursue universal multilateral solutions to global problems.
No agency stands alone, and neither does the United Nations, he continued. We are in partnership with science, business, civil society and Governments. We are in partnership with the people of this planet, united in our quest to provide a secure future by embedding the principle of sustainability.
Mr. HARRIS said there is no hope of achieving sustainable development without changing consumption and production patterns. He asked the panellists to address the actions and practices that have proven most successful in ensuring sustainable consumption and production patters at the global, regional and national levels. It was also important to consider how actions aimed at meeting Goal 12 can be taken, with a view to maximizing co benefits and minimizing negative trade-offs in relation to other Goals, as well as how to enhance effective partnerships and identify who had been left the farthest behind.
Ms. RAHAYU said Indonesia has taken various steps, including reaching out to businesses to bolster efficiency, and fostering standards regulations to increase sustainable tourism and green economic growth. Campaigns have led to empowering groups to apply green management practices, while advocacy efforts sought to promote sustainable waste management practices. Stakeholders have been engaged to discuss consumption and production patterns, including plastic bag use. Changing such behaviour is connected to efforts focused on other Goals, including targets on education, human rights and the promotion of peace, he stressed.
Ms. BAYR said awareness-raising should be accompanied with incentives to make it easier for consumers to make sustainable choices that have financial benefits. For instance, a product becomes attractive if it can be easily repaired rather than simply disposed when broken. Efforts should also be made to educate the public about sustainable public services. Public contracts must be transparent and consumers must have the tools to hold the public and private sectors accountable. Public procurement meanwhile should promote sustainable principles. Guiding principles and codes of conduct make some progress, but do not change the economy. As the current economic system does not consider the environment or human rights, a new model is needed that is aligned with sustainable development. Until then, international law must ensure companies follow the core values. Robust taxation systems are also needed to generate funding. Member States should take the lead in making sure every effort is made to advance the Goals.
Ms. NYAKANG'O highlighted success stories across the continent, including establishing a road map, regularly holding regional round tables on pertinent issues and creating National Cleaner Production Centres. Other actions include the adoption of national and regional plans, policies and green economy strategies. The challenges included weak institutional linkages, a lack of mainstreaming consumption and production efforts into the other Goals and a lack of clear messages on the targets. In addition, there is little support for regional platforms, research and information exchanges and efforts to ensure inclusion of vulnerable groups, such as women, youth and indigenous communities. To address these concerns, she suggested intense networking to build partnerships, retooling national policies and institutional arrangements to support sustainable consumption and production, and translating related targets into national plans. She also recommended providing resources to promote the benefits of participating in sustainable consumption and production initiatives and supporting regional platforms to take the agenda forward.
Mr. JAEKEL outlined activities under the 10-Year Framework of Programmes, its fund and plans for action. A new strategy, One Plan for One Planet, was developed to ensure improvements in implementing Goal 12, with related efforts focusing on results. Sustainable consumption and production have increased in all regions, and scaling up projects and improvements are now needed to reach all related targets, with partnerships and steady support to get the job done. Policies must prioritize the issue at the national level, he said, adding that biodiversity loss is often linked to related regulations. In Germany, for example, efforts are aimed at making sustainable consumption and production beneficial for all. In that work, ministries are taking a cooperative approach to implementing programmes and activities.
Ms. LUERS said much progress on Goal 12 has centred on efficiency gains, while little progress has been made in changing systems. Making a range of suggestions on how to trigger progress, she emphasized that institutions should strive for efficiency, not just sufficiency. In addition, expanding policies to incentivize sustainable lifestyles, such as smaller homes, less consumption of meat and other actions, can produce positive results in many areas. Another effective approach involved cooperatives or worker- and community-owned companies, which tended to be more accountable to communities and be more accountable. Science based targets related to Earth systems also needed attention and should come with sufficient guidelines, she said, adding that more specific targets are needed.
Mr. CAINGLET said vulnerable communities will continue to be left behind unless actions were taken, especially for women and children. Workers must see the protection of their rights, including to safety and health. Indeed, the fundamental principles set out by the International Labour Organization (ILO) could lead to more sustainable societies. Profit is driving unsustainable practices, such as disposable technologies. Resources and waste should be managed, he said, adding that multilateral enterprises must respect human rights.
Following the presentations, participants shared their experiences and suggested ways to improve existing measures.
The representative of the stakeholder group for civil society shared concerns about the involvement of large companies that side-lined vulnerable communities who asserted their rights to spotlight unsustainable practices. Instead, people-powered and people-centred efforts must be supported.
The representative of Kenya said current consumption patterns are destroying the planet and must be changed. For its part, Kenya has drafted plans and strategies promoting, among other things, low-carbon initiatives, eliminating plastic bags and climate-smart agricultural production. However, more partnerships are needed to implement all plans and programmes.
The representative of Finland said efforts must continue to decouple economic growth and environmental degradation. Countries like hers must lead the way to promote pilot programmes and trials in areas such as public procurement, with a view to moving to a revolutionary circular economy. Efforts must be scaled up, however, if the Goals are to be met.
The representative of Israel said her country was an innovation leader. Efforts aimed at supporting new ideas and solutions for sustainable consumption. Citing a recent example, she said a public-private initiative supported projects focused on key areas for testing new technologies.
The representative of Turkey said ecotourism projects are under way, which considered long-term benefits to local communities.
The representative of the European Union said circular economic policies must be adopted to promote further progress. In addition, a mix of legislation and incentives should guide actions, she said, highlighting policies being developed on single-use plastics.
The representative of Mexico said Goal 12 clearly shows the cross-cutting nature of the 2030 Agenda. As such national voluntary reviews are essential, she said, emphasizing that all sectors must cooperate towards common objectives. The bottom line is that efforts must focus on changing the way people consume.
The representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), speaking on behalf of the Rome-based food agencies, said one third of all food produced for consumption is lost or wasted the equivalent of 8 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. He reviewed a variety of solutions, from legislation and market-based instruments to placing dinner-party leftovers into the refrigerator for later use. Another idea, he added, is to stop throwing out ugly but otherwise perfectly good tomatoes.
The representative of Switzerland said Goal 12 will figure prominently in the Voluntary National Review that it would present to the Economic and Social Council next week. For his country, he added, three topics are emerging as global concerns food waste and sustainable food systems, marine plastics pollution and transparency in raw materials extraction.
The representative of the indigenous peoples major group said the prevailing capitalist system is highly destructive, profit-oriented and inequitable. Despite their small environmental footprint, indigenous peoples constituted 15 per cent of the global poor. They also faced ethnicide through the alarming destruction of land, resources, collective rights and well-being. In achieving Goal 12, indigenous peoples had much knowledge to share about sustainable resource management and lifestyles. She called on States to urgently recognize indigenous peoples' collective rights to land, territory and resources. They must also take steps to protect and support traditional knowledge and innovation for sustainable practices; to enhance the role of indigenous women; and to adopt coherent policies and mechanisms to stop unsustainable production and consumption systems while at the same time ensuring human and environmental rights.
The representative of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) said global material resource use could more than double by 2050. A shift to more sustainable consumption patterns would lower both resource use and greenhouse gas emissions while boosting global economic activity. Many policies and technical tools are in place, but not being implemented sufficiently to make a difference. Transformational action on Goal 12 will require more financial investment, he added.
The representative of Thailand said a national five-year action plan aims at strengthening partnerships with stakeholders, especially regarding environmentally friendly Government procurement, tourism, food production and the development of sustainable buildings. Strong cooperation with all stakeholders in moving towards sustainable consumption and production patterns will help to achieve not only Goal 6, on clean water and sanitation, but other related objectives.
Representatives of Romania, Norway, France, Italy, Sweden, Denmark, Estonia, Ireland, Mali, South Africa, Belgium, Malaysia and Poland also participated in the discussion. In addition, representatives of UN-Habitat, ILO, International Maritime Organization and ESCWA delivered statements, as did speakers representing the education and academic stakeholder group and the major groups for children and youth, non-governmental organizations, women, and business and industry.
Source: United Nations


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Manufacturer's Description
Includes Forza Motorsport 3!
Racing has never felt so real! Hold on tight as you hug corner after corner, skid through the sand, or trade paint with rival cars fighting for position - the wireless wheel* simulates all the resistance and force, immersing you in a relentless and unparalleled racing experience. Featuring sleek design and cutting edge technology like dual Rumble motors and powerful Force Feedback, the Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel is a masterpiece of form and function.
Includes Forza Motorsport 3
Whether it's an exotic sports car like the new Audi R8 V10, a classic American muscle car such as the Ford GT, or a hot Asian import such as the Nissan 370Z, everyone has a dream car. Now you can drive that dream with Turn 10's latest racing epic, launching this October exclusively for Xbox 360, Forza Motorsport 3. The game makes it possible for everyone to experience the thrill of owning the world's most exotic and exquisite cars. Live the most realistic racing experience ever as you take the wheel of more than 400 of the most-beloved cars on over 100 renowned real-world tracks and exotic road courses from around the globe. With breathtaking HD graphics and the most advanced vehicle performance modeling in a video game, Forza Motorsport 3 includes a host of driving assists and adjustable skill levels to make the game a gripping pick-up-and-play experience for audiences of all ages and skill levels. A love of cars lives in all of us. Forza Motorsport 3 is the automotive playground we've all been waiting for.
- Drive with confidence and zero loss of performance knowing that the wheel is powered by the same award winning wireless technology used in the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller.
- High quality Force Feedback performance replicate the yanks and shudders that a racecar driver feels while blasting around the oval.
- Real world automotive design with comfortable and intuitive ergonomics immerses you in the action with a uniquely authentic racing experience.
- Choose the Lap mount or the Table mount to race the way you want to.
- Force Feedback and Rumble feature requires the wheel to be plugged into AC power.
|Item Code
|Packaged Weight
|4 Kg
|Release Date
|Friday, 23rd October 2009
|Product Type
|Steering Wheels
|Xbox 360
|Xbox 360 E, Xbox 360 Original (no HDMI), Xbox 360 Original (with HDMI), Xbox 360 S


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A very distinctive piece of 1970s design from Japan – the Yamagiwa K-Series table lamp.
Designed back in 1970 by Shiro Kuramata, the lamp is intended to look like 'soft, white cloth', although that shape is actually made of acrylic and indeed handmade, so each piece is individual.
Three sizes available, with prices starting at £435.


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Vote for Disco Belle!
We're trying to win the Swedish podcast prize here and we need your votes! This is the link and then you have to vote for us in "Best music" (Bästa musik) and "Best Swedish channel" (Bästa svenska kanal). You have to fill in a valid e-mail and then click on the link that gets sent to you to confirm the votes. And they don't send spam so no worries (and if you do start getting Swedish spam you know who to blame).


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Telemark or randonnée?
Telemark or randonnée, what's really better?
Ahh, I'm glad you asked. Telemarkers like to wax ecstatic about harmonizing turns and "dancing with the mountain" and other fruity stuff stolen from the poetry of Kahlil Gibran. Why? Because, quite simply, the airy rhapsody sounds better than "repeatedly hammering my face into the mountain," which of course even great tele skiers do after their hinges-sorry, bindings-fling them to the hardpack. Uphill, rando wins too. The Dynafit Tourlite Tech setup weighs eight-and-a-half pounds, at least two pounds less than a Black Diamond-Scarpa tele ensemble. Which is why 8 out of 10 competitors at backcountry rallies use rando gear. Lastly, should the need arise, rando boots fit step-in crampons, whereas the flipper toes of tele boots don't even kick decent steps. So unless you already free-heel like the spawn of a Norse God and a Crested Butte flowerchild, leave the hippies and deities alone and go skiing.


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Babyliss Pro V- Blade Trimmer
This classic V-Blade Trimmer is ideal for home or professional use to tighten up those lines and keep your hairstyle in tip top shape! Being corded/cordless allows for flexibility plus the precision engineered steel blades with a super sharp V cutting angle mean you're able to trim and etch with absolute confidence.
- Babyliss Pro appliances
- Model: V-Blade Trimmer
- Ultra-fine precision engineered, hardened Japanese steel blades with a super sharp V cutting angle
- Cord or cordless performance
- 30mm traditional & 40mm T cutting blade
- 3/6/10/13mm comb guides
- 70 min run time
- 45 min quick charge time
- 7500 movements of blade per minutes
- Includes oil and cleaning brush, charging dock with guard storage included
- Power: Rechargeable & AC
- Battery life: 70 minutes
- Model no.: BAB790A
- Colour: Black
- Cord length: 3m
- Dimensions (approx. cm): 15.5 x 4 x 4 (L x W x D)


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Located in downtown Bellingham, the historic Mount Baker Theatre is dedicated to showcasing the best local and visiting acts in performance art today. The beautifully restored theatre, originally built in 1927, is a national historic landmark that plays host to a variety of local and national performing artists in the North Puget Sound region.
"Igniting the imagination since 1927," Mount Baker Theatre is passionate about fueling Bellingham's thriving arts community, inspiring young performers through various youth programs and a variety of entertainment opportunities throughout the year. For information about Mount Baker Theatre's current season, upcoming events, youth programming and ways to support the theatre, visit Mount Baker Theatre online — or click through the articles below for more information.
Mount Baker Theatre
104 N Commercial St
Bellingham, WA 98225


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Regarding prices of the board, they vary from
- € 58,00 per day Half board head, which includes dinner, which is a first choice, second choice, and a choice of side dish (wine, soft drinks, extras and bar products excluded), overnight stay and breakfast.
- € 75.00 per head daily for full board per person (to implement the surface level it is necessary to spend at least 4 nights in a refuge).
For children up to 3 years the rate is free, while for those aged 4 to 10 years the price per head is half the previous figure.
N.B. It warns that the shelter is NOT equipped with P.O.S. for payment by credit card and debit cards.


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Chuck lets everyone know the two things he will never do.
Chuck lets everyone know the two things he will never do.
Greatings from Portugal, Charles!
Russell Westbrook's new nickname should be " catfish ". He looks like a catfish without his whiskers.
Charles, it's not pancake bread it's Hot Water Cornbread
I am no major sports groupie or sports fan but I just love Charles Barkley. He has such a wonderful sense of humour and a true common sense way about him. I wish him and his family the best for the new year as I plan to knock it out of the ball park this year.
Michelle from Chicago
go 2012
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Lemongrass*, Ginger root* (15.5%), Liquorice root*, Lemon peel* (7%), Orange peel*, Natural Lemon Flavouring with other Natural Flavourings (3.5%), Natural Ginger Flavouring (1.5%). *Organically Grown Ingredient.
allergy advice & warnings
Contains liquorice – people suffering from hypertension should avoid excessive consumption.
Clipper products are sourced and made with a clear conscience. We are the pioneers of unbleached, plant-based and biodegradable tea bags and always strive to make things better for people and the planet.


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Potts Point is one of my fave 'burbs. From the food-filled Saturday markets and trendy restaurants, to the antiques stores and art deco architecture, it's pretty much the only area in Sydney where I will happily stay and explore for an entire day (I'm talking breakfast, lunch and tea). So imagine my excitement, when I found out that the super luxe Spicers Retreats was opening an inner city sanctuary on the oh-so leafy Victoria Street.
Taking over three heritage listed terraces, Spicers has landed themselves one of the best spots in town. Completely refurbished into a boutique contemporary hotel, this twenty-room retreat is the perfect place to escape reality and treat your fine self to a taste of luxury.
When I first arrived at Spicers Potts Point, I was greeted with cocktails and canapés (they had won me over immediately, obvs) and shown to my room, one of three Victorian Terrace Suites. If you're going all out—and I strongly suggest you do—you neeeeeed to book yourself in to one of these. Complete with an old-school balcony, a leafy outlook and city views, it shows off a completely secret side to the city.
After taking a relaxing bath with every Leif product I could have ever dreamed of, I popped on a plush white robe, along with white slippers, and attacked the mini bar. There's no better way to unwind from a hectic working week than with a bottle of vino and chilled beats (from a super slick record player) while watching the world go by, LBH.
The best part? You don't even have to leave your room for food. You can order room service from Cho Cho San or Apollo and stuff yourself silly with some of the best bites in the city. If you're more social than I am (not hard), there's plenty to choose from, with Chester White, The Butler and Bistro Rex only a short walk away.
As soon as you get into bed (or crawl if you're in a food coma like me), I'm warning you now, you'll never want to leave. Easily one of the comfiest beds I have ever slept in, this is exactly what your inner child wants a cloud to be.
If you're all about #fitspo you can enjoy complimentary use of PE Department and Yoga Department classes, but if you're more into sleeping, you can wake up in your giant bed then stuff yourself all over again with an a la carte breakfast (just make sure you order the hotcakes!) and endless amounts of coffee.
Whether you're after a romantic escape, city weekend with your besties or need somewhere to stay for work, it's safe to say that staycays don't get much better than this.
Editor's note: This article is proudly sponsored by Spicers Potts Point and endorsed by The Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make The Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.
Image credit: Federica Portentoso | Design credit: Sahra Martin


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You may need to install Flash or enable it on your browser to play the puzzles.
Can't see the Full Screen puzzle? Your pop-up blocker probably prevented it from opening. Click here to relaunch the pop-up.
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Online jigsaw puzzle of a painting of a cozy room. The room has a fireplace, two sofas, and a small writing desk.


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The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) revealed on Wednesday that two shipments of genetically modified maize worth millions of dollars were discovered at a seaport in Lagos.
The Director-General of NBMA, Rufus Ebegba, said a vessel arrived at the ENL terminal at the Lagos port with 25,750 metric tons of genetically modified maize worth an estimated $3.7m. Another vessel arrived at the same terminal two days later carrying 42,900 metric tons of maize valued at $6.1m.
A Nigerian environmental advocacy organization, Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), expressed concern over the development, saying it could indicate that Nigeria regularly imports unauthorized foods that go undetected.
"Nigerians should be alarmed at these incidents because whoever imported these illegal shipments may have done so due to the preponderant attitude of government that Nigeria is open to GMOs and that there is nothing to worry about GMOs [genetically modified organisms]," said Nnimmo Bassey, Director of HOMEF.
"This is an indication that more GMO foods and products may have slipped into the country undetected", he added.
The organization has been advocating for a ban on all GMOs in Nigeria. According to HOMEF, Nigerian farmers can provide enough food for the whole country if they are supported with extension services, processing and storage facilities and adequate infrastructure.
HOMEF urged the Nigeria Customs Service to impound the illegal shipments and called on the NBMA to conduct market audits in order to ensure that foods with genetically modified traits are not smuggled into the country.


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As a gamer, I play a lot of video games. In playing a lot of video games, I also die a lot. I mean all the freaking time. I think I "fell down" in Call of Duty: World at War at least 20 times last night before finally realizing that I should probably pick my shots better. In most games, that's what you do - you fall down and die.
In the spirit of Halloween, I've compiled a short list of some of the most creative and memorable deaths that I've experienced playing video games. I'm talking about your character dying, not the enemy. I've left out the gory and the insane, but I'm pretty sure you'll mention them in the comments. Instead I'd like to think this list will make us all realize that we are all in fact mortal, and we don't have a restart button. Though some of us may, and I'll see all of you at "The Quickening."
10: Sub-Zero's Winter Wonderland.
I know this is the first one that popped in your little gamer heads. Mortal Kombat featured a multitude of great finishing moves that could only be pulled off with extreme finger dexterity, the most popular being Sub-Zero's ripping out of the spine. However, my favorite was Sub-Zero simply making a snowman. You had lost, and instead of brutally killing you, your opponent makes a snowman - adding insult to injury.
9: Pac-Man is an Antacid.
One of the most classic video game deaths comes from the old standard, Pac-Man. When touched by a ghost, our pizza pie shaped hero rolls onto his back, dislocates his giant jaw and dissolves into nothingness. This was quite creative considering that most video game deaths at this time just appeared as if the character was frozen, then it would restart. Don't forget about the iconic sound he makes while dying. If you had another quarter, you could easily summon him back from the black hole of video game death.
8: Getting Your Lights Punched Out.
The best boxing game out there, Fight Night (rounds 3 or 4) provides one of the most realistic beat downs ever in a video game. When you get knocked down, the camera pans out a little and the screen emulates what your vision would be like if you just got punched in the face one too many times. Sometimes you just stagger and fall, other times you go down hard. It all depends on the type of punch you just took to put you down. It hurts my jaw just to think about it.
7. Having a Bad Fur Day.
No one can deny that Conkers Bad Fur Day was a strange little game. You are a binge drinking squirrel prone to violence, not to mention full of poop jokes. In the multiplayer player vs. player mode if you play as the evil Tediz character and happen to get sliced in half by a samurai sword your body slides apart leaking... stuffing. No guts, no teddy blood, stuffing. It's the cutest death scene I've ever seen in a game.
6. It Sucks Being the Little Guy.
In the classic game Duke Nukem 3D, one of the many power-ups in the game was one that made you shrink so you could walk underneath an obstacle. There was one side effect to being tiny though, you could get stepped on by enemy. Or if you didn't make it all the way through the obstacle, you would re-size and find out what would have happened if R2-D2 hadn't turned off the trash compactor. Squishy.
5. No Mercy Means Showing the Goods.
In the game Killer Instinct (a clear Mortal Kombat clone) you could play as some not so human characters. Or you could play as B. Orchid. The only female character in the game, one of her "No Mercy" finishing moves set the woman's liberation movement back a couple steps. Enter the right combo and she'd whip open her uniform to flash her breasts (the breasts were not actually seen by the player) and your character would have a heart attack at the sight and die. Unless your character happened to be another B. Orchid, at which point you'd stomp the ground in spite. This was a great early example that video game programmers like boobs. (See: Lara Croft & The Dead or Alive series for further proof.)
4. The Many Deaths of Dirk the Daring.
Dragon's Lair, the only game I ever heard of that came out on Laserdisc featured the clumsy knight Dirk in his quest to save Princess Daphne from the lair of Singe the Dragon. The damn game also cost $.50 at the arcade when all other games were $.25. There were some really interesting ways to die in this game and is the first arcade game I remember that made dying in a video game and losing $.50 in a minute not that bad. From falling (a lot) to drowing (a lot) to being burned (a lot) and electrocuted (a lot) Dirk found a way to muck up his quest and leave Daphne hanging. Let us also not forget consumed by slime, beaten, stabbed and turned into stone.
3. Becoming Yoshi Excrement.
For years Yoshi was a slave to Mario's whims. Standing still when not needed and haplessly running off cliffs if not controlled. With Super Smash Bros., and specifically the Melee version, Yoshi took control. His attacks were the strongest in the game and utilized all of his talents. Like eating you and pooping out an egg. While you wouldn't normally die from this move unless your health was way down, you would die if Yoshi ate you in mid-jump and pooped you off the side of a cliff. Scrambled or sunny side up?
2. Getting Tackled by the Ambulance.
While this death didn't happen to you, the player specifically, it still deserves mention because of the sheer hilarity. In the 1992 release of Madden Football when a player was injured to the point of not being able to play, an ambulance would drive out onto the field - running over everyone in its path. Not just running them over, but knocking them off their feet and off the screen as well as routinely running over the injured player. To this day, it hasn't been confirmed if this was a bug or an intentional joke by the programmers.
1: Almost Every Death in Space Quest I-III
How could I not mention Space Quest? While there have been six iterations of this fantastic adventure game over the years, none have matched the creativity and spunk of the first three games. With the death scenes being unexpected and full of sarcasm and criticism of our bumbling hero Roger Wilco, it was hard to pick just one. So I didn't. Here's a list of some of my favorites of the many deaths of Roger Wilco in Space Quest.
- Death by Duke Nukem Robots. "Better hang out at the gym more often." (SQ III)
- Death by Conveyor Belt. "Shredded like an Iran-Contra document, your many independent parts flutter to the bottom of the hopper." (SQ III)
- Death by Going Too Far South. "Get eaten by a giant snake." (SQ III)
- Death by Pole Vaulting w/Detonator. "Didn't mom always tell you not to play with firecrackers?" (SQ III)
- Death by metal sheet. "It's obvious that the metal sheet was sharper than you" (SQ III)
- Death by Mushroom. "Holy geez, boy! That mushroom thing sucked you clean up! You can't move a muscle nor see a speck of light." (SQ II)
- Death by Root Monster. "The giant root-looking thing is giving you a guided tour of its digestive system." (SQ II)
- Death by Orat. "Orat has transformed you into a new piece of recreational equipment. Along with finding this treatment extremely rude, you don't survive it." (SQ I)
- Death by Smelling Acid. "That's right. You have no head. That darn pool must be filled with acid. You obviously can't go on living that way." (SQ I)
- Death by Tasting Acid. "That's right. You have no head. That darn pool must be filled with acid. You obviously can't go on living that way." (SQ I)
- Death by Touching Acid. "Sure, you've died a few deaths before, but this one really burns you. Planets are depending on you. Seeing you do stuff like this is definitely making them nervous." (SQ I)
To wit, video game death doesn't always have to be blood and gore. It also doesn't have to just be your character falling down, and as shown by the Fight Night example, you don't even have to die. What are some of your favorite death scenes in video games?


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Posts for: September, 2016
Find out how to care for bunions now to prevent problems in the future.
If you were lucky enough to catch your bunion during its early stages then you might just be in luck. In fact, your bunion may not even be causing you issues. But to ensure that you continue to enjoy a pain-free life, it's time you listened to your Bloomington, IL podiatrist Dr. Gerald Paul to find out how to properly care for your bunions so they don't get worse.
Bunions can get worse if you don't take the necessary precautions. Of course, our Bloomington, IL foot doctors can help you manage your symptoms with many different treatment options. Here are some of the most common nonsurgical options for caring for your bunions:
- Massages or certain exercises can be used to not only relax the muscles in the foot but also to retrain them. Talk to us about certain exercises you can perform to help ease your bunion symptoms or to improve the alignment of your feet.
- Wear a bunion splint, which can help shift the toe back into its natural alignment.
- Look for the proper shoes for your condition. This means choosing shoes that have a lot of room for your toes to spread out, as well as shoes that have no heels and are lightweight. Not sure how to even go about shopping for shoes? Just talk to us. We would be happy to give you some suggestions.
- If you have already started to notice some minor swelling or discomfort from time to time you can temporarily relieve these symptoms with icing or over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Wear a bunion pad to provide protection and cushioning for the bunion while wearing shoes. This is particularly helpful during physical activity, where shoes are more likely to rub against the bunion and cause pain.
Bunions don't have to be a nuisance. If you want to talk to a foot specialist in Bloomington, IL about how to care for your feet then turn to McLean County Foot and Ankle. We are here to help!


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Raising children in today's world can be a daunting task when you see the media, other parents around you or dare to watch movies.
You see no matter where you turn someone is trying to tell you how to raise your child.
Now if you're special enough to have highly sensitive children then you may face extra obstacles.
Highly sensitive children are amazing. I know because I have one possibly two and I am a highly sensitive person as well.
You see they are super special little beings and we as their parents have to prepare them for the world. That big scary place that can rob them of their innocence in a matter of minutes.
This blog post contains affiliate links. I only recommend things I believe in and love. Learn more.
In This Episode:
- Being misunderstood as a highly sensitive person and how we can combat that in today's world.
- How with the help of Corinne's I have been able to identify and relate to my children better.
- What it means to be highly sensitive.
- Corinne details what it's like to be a mom of a highly sensitive child.
- How she's raising her children to embrace their highly sensitive nature.
- Making hard choices in the face of friends or children.
- How to prepare your kids when they are highly sensitive to letdowns.
- Are they overreacting or is it true sensitivity?
Links Mentioned:
- Elevate You.
- The Highly Sensitive Person
- What Exactly Is A Highly Sensitive Child?
- How Being A Highly Sensitive Person Has Affected Me As A Mom
Key Takeaways:
- That no matter how much you prepare them there is only so much you can do.
- Highly sensitive children need a little extra help when it comes to understanding their feelings.
- You children and even you as a highly sensitive person might feel like you're misunderstood.
- Things to look for with highly sensitive people (this is not all-encompassing): Sensitivity to noise, light, smells, cry easily, they may be perfectionists, notice others pain. For others be sure to read Corinne's post.
Let's Keep The Conversation Going:
Corinne helps parents understand their children on a deeper level which will help ultimately connect and relate to their them better. She empowers parents to stop second-guessing themselves and dig in.
Where You Can Find Corinne:
- CorinneKerston.com
- Find Corinne on Facebook
- Find Corinne on Pinterest
We love for you to share it with a mama who might need to hear it. Do you have questions about this episode, The Balanced Mamas, or something else? Reach out and let us know! Just fill out this form and we can start the conversation or email me at email@example.com.


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Many individuals view cooking as a peaceful and fulfilling activity. When the kitchen is filled with the delicious aromas of fresh ingredients and homemade food cooking in the oven, anyone is going to feel a bit happier. It can be hard to find the right tips about cooking. In this article you can learn a lot that can make your meals taste fantastic.
A cool and dark location is best for storing spices and herbs. The flavor of herbs and spices will be diminished if they are subjected to humidity, heat, or light. Herbs and spices generally keep their taste and flavor for about one year. Spices which are kept whole can retain their flavor for between three and five years. If you keep them correctly, they will last a lot longer.
You want to make certain you have the prep work done ahead of time. It is quite important that the preparation is done well in advance of the cooking process. That way, when you're ready to cook, it takes some of the stress out of it, especially if you have a deadline to meet. Do your prep work in advance, if you can.
Add oil to the pan on the side so when it reaches the food it is hot. Doing so will maximize the flavors of the food you are cooking by keeping them inside the food.
There's something you can do to save your effort and your sauce. Combine two tablespoons filled with water and one tablespoon filled with cornstarch in a small dish. Simmer the sauce, and slowly stir the corn starch mixture in. Add the starch slowly and stir the sauce constantly to avoid making it too thick.
Cooking vegetables for a long time in a boiling liquid will remove nutrients that are found in them. If you are not serving the vegetables in their raw state, consider steaming, sautéing or even roasting your vegetables to protect their vitamin and nutrient content.
People often use more apples in fall and winter, but they will spoil if not stored properly. Storing apples in warm, dry air will cause them to rot. Instead, store your apples in a cool place. One rotten apple can actually spoil the whole bag so make sure you keep an eye your apples.
As this article has discussed, cooking is revered by many as an excellent and enjoyable hobby. However, some people don't know where to start, in terms of picking the right recipes or using the proper techniques. Follow this article's advice and you will be on your way to cooking great food.


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Black Dog TGR pairing with Chocolates
Scotch Whisky is a drink that defines class and chocolates defines happiness and When these two are paired together, The magic that is created would be humongous.Trust me, if you haven't tried this combo, do it right away Now is the time to pair the different type of chocolates with the Black Dog Triple Gold Reserve and enjoy the sinfully chocolatey dessert.
hen pairing chocolate with TGR there are some interesting expectations, like the expectation for chocolate to bring out certain flavours from both Scotch and Chocolate and interwine with each other. Both these products are so complex in themselves that it is near impossible to predict the outcome of these two together unless you try out various combinations with different quantities of Scotch and chocolate. As a lot of people have experienced that just the label of "Single Malt" whisky does not ensure the best taste, so is a high percentage of Cocoa does not mean the best chocolate. Pairing TGR with chocolate is like overwhelming your taste buds as it coats the tongue and blunt it whereas TGR aromas will assault the nose. When it gets going you really tend to enjoy them.
Determining the Scotch Whisky and chocolate pairings is more art than science, but by tasting them together and being able to discern the distinctive flavors and aromas; it is difficult to come up with various suggestions. Understanding the regional characteristics of both the Scotch Whisky and the chocolate is also important. For example, Scotch Whisky from the Islay region is more smoky and peaty based on the water used and the pleating levels of the barley.
At the end of a meal, bring a bottle of Scotch Whisky or two out with a selection of chocolates Take a small sip of the Scotch Whisky and swirl it around the inside of your mouth and swallow. Try a piece of chocolate while you still have the taste of the whisky in your mouth and see what happens. Ideally, you'll taste an enjoyable combination of the Scotch Whisky and chocolate that will leave you wanting a little bit more of each.
Disclaimer: The content featured above is only for people aged above 25 years.


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How to Install Closet Shelf Supports
Turn an ordinary closet into an organized storage system by adding one or more shelves. Closet shelf supports are typically wooden cleats attached to the wall just below the shelf. The cleats provide stability and support the weight of items placed on the shelf. Adding shelves to the closet requires little time and few tools to complete.
Measure the width of the back wall of the closet from corner to corner. Subtract 2 inches to allow for the two side cleats. Measure the depth of each closet side.
Cut a 1-by-2-inch cleat the same length as the width measurement of the back wall using a chop saw.
Cut two cleats the same length as the depth measurement. Use 1-by-2-inch boards if no closet rod is to be installed. Use a 1-by-4-inch board if a closet rod will be installed and cut a groove 3 inches deep in each cleat that is wide enough to hold the rod.
Prime and paint the cleats on the front and 1-inch edges in a well-ventilated area. Leave the paint to dry completely.
Measure up from the floor along each wall in the closet and mark the height to place each cleat. Hold the level at the mark you made and use the pencil to draw a straight line across the wall. Repeat for all three walls.
Locate the wall studs along the line using the stud finder. Mark the location of each stud with a vertical pencil mark that crosses the line.
Nail the cleats at the studs, keeping them even with the horizontal line you drew previously. Nail all three cleats in the same manner. Set the shelf in place.
Things Needed
- Measuring tape
- Chop saw
- 1-by-2-inch lumber
- Primer
- Paint
- Pencil
- Stud finder
- Nails
- When installing a shelf that protrudes past the closet rod, install the rod into the groove you cut before placing the shelf onto the cleats.
Photo Credits
- David Sacks/Lifesize/Getty Images


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Hello Friends!
Pueblo StepUp is proud to have participated in the Movember 13 campaign. The Pueblo StepUp guys were able to raise over $100 dollars to donate to the Pueblo Movember chapter, a great start for our first year! Pueblo StepUp is planning to "StepUp" our involvement in Movember next year by reaching out to even more businesses and area agencies to participate and/or sponsor. We have posted the final results for the campaign below. Gilbert "Bo" Ortiz, Pueblo County Clerk, and Scott Wright, Supervisor of the Recording Department, joined the StepUp team for pictures.
Many thanks,
The Pueblo StepUp Team


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EE will be the exclusive mobile network in the U.K. to offer a tariff for the new LTE-capable Apple Watch Series 3 when it begins shipping later this month.
Announced at Apple's media event on Tuesday, the latest version of the smartwatch contains an eSIM that can connect to a 4G LTE network so users can make and receive calls on their wrist, while watchOS apps can make use of the mobile data connection while untethered from an iPhone.
According to the BBC's Dave Lee, the EE tariff for the Apple Watch Series 3 will be £5 per month for existing EE iPhone contract holders, with the calling function on the watch using the same number as the owner's phone.
EE customers will be able to sign up for the new tariff when the Series 3 Apple Watch becomes available for pre-order on September 15, costing £399 with cellular connectivity and £329 without. Orders for the new watch are expected to arrive on September 22, which is the official launch date of the device.
EE boss @MarcAllera says the tariff for the cellular apple watch will be £5 a month
— Dave Lee (@DaveLeeBBC) September 12, 2017
Apple only mentioned EE as a U.K. carrier for the Apple Watch Series 3 during its media event yesterday, but it's likely that other U.K. networks will offer their own tariffs as the market for the LTE smartwatch matures.
You can follow iPhoneFirmware.com on Twitter, add us to your circle on Google+ or like our Facebook page to keep yourself updated on all the latest from Apple and the Web.


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It's not 2013 anymore. Visit Sched's 2015 Austin Guide =>
Texas Music Reader Appreciation Party
The event is a private party for our subscribers and special guests. All current, paid subscribers (as of Spring ¹13 issue) get in free, including one guest. Names will be checked to our subscription list at the door. If you want to check the status of your subscription, contact email@example.com


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Zenith Elite collection has lots of best sellers on account of their brilliant designs and elegant styles. Elite watches are manufactured to present the eternal and classic elegance. People who like gentle and elegant styles are target customers. Zenith Elite replica watches with blue dials are driven by Cal. 4069, self-winding mechanical movements with 31 jewels. The Swiss movements are composed of 254 parts and can save over 50-hour power.
More exquisite details of their caliber can be revealed through the transparent sapphire case backs. Their hour markers are slender steel indexes on the blue dials. And their three hands are all set in the center showing the time. Besides, there are two sub-dials with small hands used for 30-minute chronograph at 3 o'clock and small seconds at 9. The 42mm steel cases of polished effects have glossy and decent appearances. They are also solid enough to protect their inner structures and mechanisms well.
The excellent Zenith copy watches have an average water-resistance to 50m deep. There are no shiny or colorful decorations. The color matching is gentle, making the timepieces look charming and fancy. The men's timepieces have classic and simple designs, much favored by noble gentlemen and office workers.


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'Injustice 2' Officially Announced with Trailer Release
On the heels of yesterday's leak, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC Entertainment today announced Injustice 2, the sequel to the hit game Injustice: Gods Among Us from 2013. NetherRealm Studios provides a huge roster of DC Super Heroes and Super-Villains and allows players to build and power up the ultimate version of their favorite DC characters. Injustice 2 will be available for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in 2017.
Details are still scarce but from the epic trailer, characters include Batman, Superman, Supergirl, Aquaman, as well as newcomers Red Lantern Atrocitus and Gorilla Grodd. NetherRealm creative director Ed Boon spoke with Rolling Stone and had this to say about the scalability of the characters.
Every character in Injustice 2 will have "a vast, vast array of what we're calling gear" – costume pieces and equipment that are used to upgrade your abilities – according to Boon. The superhero you start controlling at the beginning of the game won't have the same skills as the one you end with. Players will determine whether they want more speed, more health, more strength, and the like. "There are thousands and thousands of pieces for, let's say, the Flash," he says. "You are in the constant process of making your version of the Flash."
Injustice 2's plot is an extension of the first game where in an alternate universe, Superman will do anything to keep the peace even become an intolerable overlord. The original game surpassed expectations, it not only did well on consoles but it led to a mobile hit and best-selling comic book series. You can probably expect the same for the sequel.
Check out the official trailer and press release below.
BURBANK, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC Entertainment today announced Injustice 2, the super-powered sequel to the hit game Injustice: Gods Among Us. The newest game in development from the award-winning NetherRealm Studios features a massive roster of DC Super Heroes and Super-Villains and allows players to build and power up the ultimate version of their favorite DC characters. Injustice 2 will be available for the PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system and Xbox One in 2017.
"In Injustice 2, we are introducing new features that will change the way fans play fighting games," said Ed Boon, Creative Director, NetherRealm Studios. "We're always interested in pushing the genre forward and allowing players to customize and level-up their favorite DC Super Heroes and Super-Villains is a significant leap."
"Expanding the DC Universe in games continues to be one of our top priorities, and Injustice 2 showcases amazing gameplay and an original story to bring the characters to life for players," said David Haddad, President, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. "NetherRealm Studios is offering fans an experience of customizing and battling with DC's iconic characters in an entirely new way."
Injustice 2 offers the latest DC fighting game experience that expands on the previous title's larger-than-life showdowns. Every battle defines you in a game where players personalize iconic DC characters with unique and powerful gear earned throughout the game. For the first time gamers can take control of how their characters look, fight and develop across a variety of game modes.
Injustice 2 continues the epic cinematic story introduced in Injustice: Gods Among Us as Batman and his allies work towards putting the pieces of society back together while struggling against those who want to restore Superman's regime. In the midst of the chaos, a new threat appears that will put Earth's existence at risk. Players can play from the biggest DC roster ever offered in a fighting game, from classic fan favorites such as Batman, Superman, Supergirl and Aquaman, to astonishing new villains like Atrocitus and Gorilla Grodd. Battles will take place across arenas that have evolved in scale and span across iconic locations such as Metropolis, Gotham City and Atlantis.
To celebrate the announcement of Injustice 2, fans who have downloaded the hugely successful Injustice: Gods Among Us mobile game can unlock theInjustice 2 versions of Superman and Aquaman through the in-game Challenge Modes. Released in 2013 and developed from the ground up by NetherRealm Studios, the Injustice: Gods Among Us mobile game is available as a free download on the App Store and Google Play.