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I wrote this blog on Monday, but apparently, I didn't post it. So for what it's worth, here it is.
Last night, we had a Sit & Knit session at Bound Brook Presbyterian. I showed up, as did Lynne, and neither of us are members of the church. I'm beginning to wonder if we should keep having it, but I suspect we need to do a better job publicizing it. So I will talk to Jung, the other coordinator for the sessions, and see if we can redouble our efforts in that regard.
I brought my Day Lily Wrap and my strip for Jay's Prayer Blanket with me to the meeting. I really wanted to work on the wrap, but as I suspected, concentrating on the lace with anyone around to talk to was impossible, so I quickly put the sweater away and got out the blanket strip. I got a lot done. I think I have about 45 inches now. Lynne was also working on a black strip for the same blanket. It was fun to compare notes and to enjoy working with the soft Homespun yarn.
Late last week, I overheard one of our photographers quoting a Buddhist priest who said that you should always be present (mindful) of everything you are doing, not always thinking ahead about what's coming next and not thinking about what you are doing. Applying that to my knitting, I consciously center on what I'm doing, rather than thinking about everything else in the world as I knit. I particularly am enjoying working with soft yarns and slippery needles and watching the fabrics grow. I am not particularly interested in becoming one with the fabrics, which would be a very Buddhist thing to do. I'm not a Buddhist. But I was glad for the reminder to enjoy what I am doing and not always push so far into the future that I enjoy nothing.
Between knitting sessions, though, I do think ahead. This is a big knitting year for me, I think. I mean, most of the projects I'm planning to make are for me, not others, which is unusual. In recent years, I think about half the things I've made have been for others. This year, I've been looking at my wardrobe and imagining things I can make to fill the gaps.
I've already said that I want to make that Toggle Jacket for wearing on business occasions when I can wear a sweater rather than a blazer. That will be in Simply Soft Black. And as soon as I finish Jay's Prayer Blanket Strip, I'm going to start that jacket, even if the Day Lily Wrap isn't completed by then.
I also want to make that Amused sweater that is on my list of 22 things to make this year. I have decided to make it in Simply Soft Blackberry because that color is two shades darker but the same tone as a pink turtleneck that my mother gave me as a present last month. I'm actually thinking that if I can make that one fast, and I think that might be possible, I'll be able to wear it this spring because winter seems to be hanging on a lot. Hmm, maybe I should convert it into a cardigan…


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Key nutrients can provide vital improvements to your oral health. Just as harmful materials such as sugars and acids can damage our teeth, some minerals are deemed effective in the treatment of them. Two main minerals that are highly effective in treating damaged enamel and keeping your smile healthy are calcium and phosphorus.
Some of the best minerals for improving your oral health include calcium and phosphorus. Both minerals help strengthen tooth enamel to provide support in the battle against tooth decay. Foods that contain large amounts of these precious minerals include meats such as chicken, various nuts, milk, and many types of cheese.
One of the major risk factors for tooth decay is the presence of harmful acids in our mouths in combination with plaque buildup. Although you should not brush after eating due to increased tooth sensitivity which can cause toothpaste to be overly abrasive, there are alternative methods such as mouthwash and chewing gum. You can also eat foods that are crunchy and have a high water content, as they help to neutralize acids and wash away food debris.
If you would like to schedule an appointment with Professional Dental & Implant Center to see if you are a candidate for a tooth restoration, please call Dr. Yakov Royzman & Karina Zaygermakher and the rest of our team at our dentist office in New York, New York at (212) 579-0552. Come see us, and let us show you the benefits of a great smile!

subset: commoncrawl


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Parents and teachers opposed Punjab government's decision to allow summer camps during vacations in public and private schools
Parents, teachers oppose summer camps Rawalpindi, Parents and teachers here on Tuesday opposed Punjab government's decision to allow summer camps during vacations in public and private schools.
Unlike previous years, the provincial government issued a notification allowing private and government schools to hold compulsory summer camps from 7:30am to 10:30am for class 5th, 8th, 9th and 10th from June 1 to August 14.
The summer vacations in private schools will be observed from June 15 to September 5. However, the provincial education department ordered them to follow the summer vacation schedule issued by it.
But parents were of the view that the summer camps had been allowed just to enable private schools to earn more money by charging extra fees. "The concept of summer vacation is to provide relief to children from the hot weather and if that relief is not there the government should abolish the summer vacations," said Mohammad Tahir, a resident of Satellite Town.
He said how parents could send their children to school in the sweltering heat of June and July. "The holding of compulsory summer camps for class 5th and 8th is unfair as mostly families planned trips to their native towns or hilly areas," he said.
Irfan Siddiqui, a resident of Westridge, said during the hot weather children would suffer from heatstroke and other seasonal diseases. The teachers of government schools also expressed resentment over the decision, saying summer camps in government educational institutes for class 5th and 8th was unjustifiable.
"The provincial government issued the compulsory summer camps directives just to please private school owners which can bring them extra money," said Saghir Alam, the president of Punjab Teachers Union's Rawalpindi chapter, while talking to this reporter .
He said teachers had no problem in performing duties during the summer vacations but it would be difficult for the students. He said government schools also lacked basic facilities like fans and water. Teachers and parents, he added, were planning to protest against the government decision.
On the other hand, private school owners said the decision to hold the summer camps was in the best interest of the students. "The students of class 5th, 8th, 9th and 10th have suffered a lot during the last few days as textbooks were not available in the market and classes started late," said Ibrar Ahmed Khan, the president of All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association, Rawalpindi.
He said government schoolteachers remained busy in house census and anti-polio drives during the last few months. "The summer camps will also provide an opportunity to government schools to complete their study plans before examinations," he said.
The district education officials said the department would enforce the government directives regarding summer camps. They said a conveyance allowance of Rs 2,000 each would be provided to the teachers during the summer camps.


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After years of development started in 2008, Padbol was officially launched in late 2010 in Argentina. Fusion of popular sports such as soccer, tennis, volleyball and squash; this sport has rapidly gained support in different regions of the world in a vertiginous growth.
Padbol is a unique and fun sport. Its rules are simple, it is extremely dynamic, and and can be played by men and women of a wide age range in a fun and exciting way to practice a healthy sport.
Regardless of athletic level and experience, any person can play it and enjoy the many possibilities that this sport offers.
The ball bounces on the ground and lateral walls in many directions, which gives the game continuity and speed. The players may use most of their bodies for execution: feet, head, chest, and the entire legs.
Padbol has generated great expectations in a market that is eager for newness. Gustavo Miguens, the creator of this new fusion sport, talks about the company and its objectives.
"Padbol Internacional is a new and growing company that we established for the operation, administration, regulation, and expansion of Padbol worldwide.
Our objective is to popularize this fascinating sport both nationally and internationally in order to place it on the list of most popular and recognized sports.
Since our beginning we have received particular interest of many countries, counting today with Exclusive Licensees in 20 different countries.
We still have a long way to go. But it is becoming easier, because count with more and more to join us in our efforts to push Padbol to become … what it was born to be.
We appreciate the support of the ones who believed in us, which helped us to the realization of this "impossible dream"; those who contributed with their ideas; those who just listened and gave us the energy to keep going".
Gustavo Miguens.


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Put down the controller and dig through the closet for the dusty remains of childhood memories courtesy of commenter Vlyke615, reminiscing about his favorite board games in today's Speak-Up on Kotaku.
I have a lot of fond memories as a kid growing up, and some of those moments were playing games…Board Games. I'm sure I'm not the only one that would love to see a board game brought back from the graveyard as a board game once more or even an App, Console download or PC playable. I'm talking about board games that were not commonly known. I tend to have more memories as a kid with board games than with video games. These three I am listing below are the ones I have the most time remembering when it comes to flash backs where my brother and I would play the ones below to death with either his friends and/or mine.
Scotland Yard – Think of the game "Hare & Hound" similarity. This as far as I know is a very rare game. The board is of London and you play as either Mr.X (Criminal) or the police. You each would take turns moving via taxi, bus or the underground (subway), or waterways (Mr. X Only). The Police are shown at all times but Mr.X was always hidden (only showing his/her locale ever 5th move). The object of course is for the Police to land on the same spot as Mr.X in a set amount of turns. Failed to do so and Mr. X wins. There would be 3-5 police on the board (depending on the players playing) and the players as the police had to talk it out as to how they would move their pieces (if they so choose), which made it easier for Mr. X to get away. However a two player game could be played where one person controlled three policemen making it more difficult for Mr.X.
Fireball Island – This was a fun one. The board was unlike the normal flat board games you saw. This one was an upraised board like a topography map. The object of this game was to reach the top to obtain the jewel while avoiding the fire spitting (marbles) idol at the top then head back down to the boat to escape the island. Sounds easy, but if you have the jewel, other players could steal it from you if they are lucky enough. The upraised board provided pathways for the marbles to roll down on towards the player(s) or to destroy the bridge.
This last one I would do anything to see again revived as an app, console download or PC playable.
Key to the Kingdom – This is a very complex yet fun game. You are stuck in the Kingdom full of monsters, traps and a Black Knight. You would start off with certain number of equipment that would help you along the way. There was also a Hazard book which explained what needed to be done when you came upon a certain hazard. You also had to defeat monsters in order to obtain either a piece of treasure or the key itself. The board is small but if you land in the whirlpool the board unfolds reveling a longer map full of more traps, hazards and monsters. The first person to obtain the key, one piece of treasure and leave the kingdom wins.
Video games are fun and I do have fond memories of them growing up, but as a kid none of them will ever trump times I had fun playing board games.
About Speak-Up on Kotaku: Our readers have a lot to say, and sometimes what they have to say has nothing to do with the stories we run. That's why we have a forum on Kotaku called Speak-Up. That's the place to post anecdotes, photos, game tips and hints, and anything you want to share with Kotaku at large. Every weekday we'll pull one of the best Speak-Up posts we can find and highlight it here.


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Meet Our CEOs
Hoffer Flow Controls
Ken Hoffer, CEO and Board Chairman
"Elizabeth City has a lot to offer a tech company. It has the atmosphere of a small town, but the people are technical. A lot of them were living in the region when we hired them." Read more


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Our West Cork Coastline Guided Cycling Tour travels quiet roads lined with wild, deeply scented flowers, this tour covers all types of landscape, from rolling green fields to spectacular coastal rides.
West Cork is also best known for its colourful villages all of which are brightly painted in a wonderful array of vibrant colours, with wonderful hanging baskets brimming with flowers out the front of every pub and shop. This is the more cosmopolitan part of rural Ireland with many choosing to settle in this idyllic setting. This tour finishes in the colourful town of Kinsale, easily accessible to Cork Airport and city.CONTACT US


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Running a successful security awareness program takes a lot of work—assembling the right training and reinforcement assets for each employee group, running phishing programs, assessing employee knowledge and, ultimately, managing the overall program delivery. It can turn into a full-time job—but it doesn't have to. What if you could do it all from a single, web-based portal with everything you needed to create your program right at your fingertips? See how the Capensys Sentinel Awareness Portal allows you to design your own training program from these elements: online training, reinforcement, phishing, program planning, knowledge assessments, LTC4 Certification/CLE credits and a learning management system. You can also build an awareness plan based on your different user groups, desired maturity level, subject matter and risk-based profile; incorporate into your program training around security, compliance, privacy and the impending European Union's General Data Privacy Regulation (GDPR); choose from a large library of prebuilt courses or create your own course of any size on the fly with the Course Builder tool; easily apply the tenets of micro-learning to your awareness program; incorporate reinforcement materials (graphics, videos, games, articles) directly into your program; schedule and run phishing campaigns with a comprehensive library of sample templates; and track overall program progress using a graphical, interactive dashboard. Come join us for an engaging and interactive session and leave with some fresh ideas about how you can effectively create and manage your own ideal security awareness program. This session will NOT be recorded.
Solution Spotlight sessions are closed to vendors.


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During its two terms, the Obama Administration declared war on misclassification of employees as independent contractors. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued additional guidance on the proper classification of workers. The guidance made clear that the DOL, under the Obama Administration, would view most workers as employees. During this period, investigators were hired and trained to detect and deter misclassification. In addition, the DOL entered into partnerships with 37 states to work together to combat misclassification.
Companies that supplement workforces with independent contractors should not view the change in Washington as an invitation to misclassify workers. Employers should expect DOL enforcement to continue. If federal government enforcement efforts are given a lower priority by a DOL under the Trump Administration, then employers should expect state departments of labor to fill the void under their joint enforcement initiatives. Employers should also anticipate that plaintiffs' class action lawyers will continue to target misclassification.
Employers who are determined to have misclassified employees as independent contractors may be liable for:
- Unpaid minimum wage
- Unpaid overtime compensation
- Health and other benefits
- Denied medical leave
- State and federal taxes
- Unemployment insurance and claims
- Workers' compensation insurance and claims
To date, the DOL guidance issued during the Obama Administration remains in effect. To properly classify workers, employers should "determine whether the worker is economically dependent on the employer (and thus its employee) or is really in business for him or herself (and thus its independent contractor)."
The DOL directs employers to focus on the broad definition of "employ" under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the "economic realities" test developed by the courts. The DOL instructs that the application of the factors "should be guided by the overarching principle that the FLSA should be liberally construed to provide broad coverage for workers." The guidance summarizes the factors of the economic realities test as:
- The extent to which the worker's services are an integral part of the employer's business. If the worker performs the primary type of work that the employer performs for its customers, then the factor weighs in favor of an employee relationship. If the worker provides a service to the employer's business, then the factor weighs in favor of an independent contractor relationship.
- The worker's opportunities for profit and loss depending on his or her managerial skill. The worker who is paid by the hour with no risk of loss is more likely an employee than the worker who may suffer a loss of capital investment based on the manner in which he or she managed the project.
- The extent of relative investment of the employer and the worker. The worker who performs services only for one company and uses company equipment is more likely an employee than a worker who has formed an LLC, uses his or her own equipment and supplies, and performs services for a number of customers. It is important to note that the DOL takes the position that simply providing tools does not create an independent contractor relationship if the worker's investment is small when compared to the investment of the employer.
- Whether the work performed requires special skills and initiative. The worker who provides only specialized skill is more likely an employee, while the worker who provides specialized skill, offers services to a number of customers, markets his or her services, and makes decisions about materials is more likely an independent contractor.
- The permanency of the relationship. A longer work history weighs in favor of an employee relationship. A discrete project-based engagement weighs in favor of an independent contractor relationship.
- The degree of control exercised or retained by the employer. The worker who is subject to the company handbook, conduct rules, and specific direction for completing a project is likely an employee, while the worker who is tasked with a project and a deadline only is more likely an independent contractor.
DOL cautions throughout the guidance that this control factor should not be given "an oversized role in the analysis." On its website, the DOL characterizes misclassification as "one of the most serious problems facing affected workers, employers and the entire economy." The change in leadership in Washington will not impact an employer's need to comply. Government investigators and plaintiffs' attorneys are focused on the issue. Employers should focus on and review their worker classifications as well.


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Thursday's Child: San Gimignano, Italy
28 comments:
Oh, I so want to travel to Italy. This place looks fantastic!
- July 7, 2011 at 9:13 AM
- Kayte said...
Matt and I are looking at this (he and Mark were there two years ago and loved it, too). He said that it is so crowded with tourists and that they, too, stayed long after the tourists left as they were on their way from Florence to Venice. He loved looking at your pictures and bringing back the memories and I just loved looking at your pictures and thinking of my guys there. You are such fun!
- July 7, 2011 at 10:05 AM
- Rita said...
I learned so much today; you are so right about finding treasures in small villages and towns.
- July 7, 2011 at 10:54 AM
- Bkloss said...
Eek! I'm so excited you posted this because I'm going there in September! No I'm even more excited :D
- July 7, 2011 at 11:21 AM
- Valerie Gamine said...
Lovely. That sunset photo beats anything seen from a beach. Medieval architecture has always fascinated me.
- July 7, 2011 at 2:16 PM
- Jess said...
It looks lovely! This is one of my favorite blogs because it satisfies my travel fix. When we actually get to a point where we take a big vacation, you can bet I'll be referencing your blog for locations :)
- July 7, 2011 at 2:25 PM
- Justine L said...
My husband and I spent our honeymoon in Italy, biking through Umbria. I remember many small towns like the one you describe, and I hope we go back some day! Thanks for reminding me! :)
- July 7, 2011 at 2:46 PM
I always think about traveling to big cities.. and when I go to smaller towns, they are way better (most of the time) and have a lot of personality.
Great post & beautiful pictures :)
- July 7, 2011 at 3:52 PM
- Joanne said...
What a sense of time there is in an old town like this one. Just looking at those old towers really turns back the clock. What a beautiful essence.
- July 7, 2011 at 6:07 PM
- Golden Eagle said...
Those are amazing pictures!
- July 7, 2011 at 6:59 PM
- Claudia said...
It's on my list. You just revved up the excitement. I love the small towns. Often the sites are in cities but the flavor and culture remain in the villages.
- July 7, 2011 at 7:08 PM
- GratefulPrayerThankfulHeart said...
Good thinking to enjoy this sweet village without the crowds. Beautiful sunset!
- July 7, 2011 at 8:27 PM
- Velva said...
All you have to do is utter Italy, and I am there with you. As always, beautiful photographs.
Happy travels.
- July 7, 2011 at 8:45 PM
- Liz That Skinny Chick Can Bake said...
We were in San Gimignano last summer...so this brings back fabulous memories of wandering through the lovely streets, eating gelato, and exploring the bell tower. Thanks for sharing your gorgeous photos!
- July 7, 2011 at 8:49 PM
So jealous! Italy is our dream vacation, and little towns are always the best. Thanks for a great suggestion for whenever we make it over there. ~Courtney
- July 7, 2011 at 10:42 PM
Oh, glory.
Really, I must say, the little towns really do have it over there. It's something about the fact that they're beautiful and they hold something unexpected that make them so magical. Thank you for sharing this lovely little sight with us!
- July 7, 2011 at 11:42 PM
- Julie said...
How lovely! Italy is on my bucket list. Especially Tuscany. Thanks for sharing with us!!!
- July 8, 2011 at 8:25 AM
Lovely! We can only imagine how beautiful it looked with 70 towers.
- July 8, 2011 at 9:00 AM
- Belinda said...
These photos are stunning...makes me want to hop on a plane!!
- July 8, 2011 at 9:26 AM
- Carol said...
Stunning place, such gorgeous shots, I can only imagine how wonderful it is just being there!
- July 8, 2011 at 2:26 PM
- Lorraine said...
Sounds wonderful! Watching that sunset overlooking the town with the church bells in the distance must have been amazing:)
- July 8, 2011 at 6:50 PM
These pictures are breathtaking. I don't blame you for avoiding the crowds.
Have a great weekend.
- July 9, 2011 at 1:09 AM
- julie said...
I really need to get back to Italy and enjoy it as an adult. I spent a lot of time there when I studied abroad in college, but I just didn't appreciate it the way I should have. One of these days. :) Thanks for sharing your experience!
- July 9, 2011 at 7:31 AM
Ah, Tuscany. Sigh. Number 1 on my list of places to go when the kids are old enough. So beautiful. :)
- July 9, 2011 at 10:14 AM
- Gloria Baker said...
Look absolutely beautiful! gloria
- July 10, 2011 at 1:32 AM
- Amie Kaufman said...
Oh, San Gim! You're so right about the peace of the evenings. I stayed there with a lovely old Italian lady who didn't speak a word of English. Each day she'd press oranges into our hands and send us off to explore. It was just breathtakingly beautiful.
- July 10, 2011 at 4:19 AM
- Deniz Bevan said...
Oohh... *sound of me being jealous* I haven't been to Italy yet. Anywhere in Italy would be exciting at this point!
- July 13, 2011 at 9:53 PM
- Sue said...
I have always wanted to go to Italy, but now even more so! :)
- July 14, 2011 at 11:30 AM


text: This elevated pressure treated pine deck overlooks the pool below providing an area to warm up in the sun and dry off after enjoying a refreshing dip in the pool. The flat rail was chosen to provide a space to set drinks and other items, making for an effective safety feature and an efficient design detail. Archadeck, Chicagoland's premier deck builder, designed and built this deck in the Chicagoland suburbs.


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Deal Close? Arsenal Planning Surprise Move For £100k-a-week Star In January
Goonersden brings you news from top football news sites from the likes of ESPN, SkySport, Daily Mail, Daily Star and Metro… We also Analyse football, player, transfer and predict Arsenal starting line-up.
Spain international and Arsenal speed star Hector Bellerin, has been a subject of transfer speculation lately but it appears that the Gunners have perfected plans for the impending departure of their right wing back.
According to reports, Arsenal will sign Switzerland international and Udinese right wing back Silvan Widmer as a replacement for the Spaniard.
Since joining the Seria side in 2013, Widmer has operated as the first choice right back for his club and his ability to also make him play the right wing back position will see him easily fit into the current system of Arsene Wenger.
Although, the new Football relations head at Arsenal has not fully resumed, Tuttomercatoweb claims he has together with Arsene Wenger okayed a move for the 24-year-old star.
Bellerin has been attracting interested from Barcelona but they signed Nelson Semedo in his stead as Arsenal refused to let go. Juventus are the latest club to have signified interest in him and it appears that he could seal a move away from the Emirates.
Arsene Wenger has a couple of players that are on the exit list of the club but to allow a player like Bellerin leave would only stir criticism. The 22-year-old Spaniard extended his contract with Arsenal last term and he should be at the club for long term.


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To visit us and learn about the Cloud…
We have finalized our list of shows for 2012 and would love to meet you at one of them. To ensure our commitment to providing the best Cloud computing solutions and customer service experience, our team comes to you at some of the best trade shows this year. Staff will be on hand at each event to talk one-on-one about how our Cloud solutions can work for your business. We can't wait to see you there!
|The ABA TECHSHOW 2012 is taking place at the Hilton Chicago March 29 – 31. This unique conference is dedicated to helping legal professionals understand what technology is available and how it can suit your needs. The ABA TECHSHOW 2012 is the event that brings lawyers and technology together in a format that suits beginners through the techiest of techies. Don't forget to stop by Cetrom IT's booth #1013!
|June 11 -13, 2012
|The AICPA Practitioners and TECH+ conference 2012 takes place at the Aria in Las Vegas June 11 -13. The conference provides CPAs with knowledge of the latest learning, tools and technological information to keep their firms on the cutting edge. By exploring the emerging technologies, the shift towards mobile and Cloud-based solutions has changed the way business is done. Stop by booth #406 to learn about Cetrom's Cloud solutions!
|June 21-22, 2012
|The AICPA Not for Profit Conference 2012 will be held in Washington, D.C. June 21 – 22. CPA and accounting firms and not for profits come together to learn how to deal with new regulations affecting tax, compliance, accounting & auditing, and governance for the not for profit industry. They will hear about new financial management and leadership strategies, such as options to outsource IT maintenance, as well as collaboration and fund raising ideas. Stop by and see us at booth #404!
|August 11-14, 2012
|The ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition 2012 will be held in Dallas Aug. 11 – 14. This exposition is a chance for association leaders to meet up with other members to discuss their missions and how to advance their organizations to meet those goals. By collaborating with other association professionals on current trends, these leaders will learn firsthand what associations are doing to stay ahead of the game. Come visit us at booth #611 & 613!
|September 6, 2012
|Protech Fusion 2012 will be held in Washington, D.C. on Sept. 6th. The event brings together customers, team members, partners and other industry experts to explore ways that Protech Cloud Business Solutions can help association managers strengthen member relationships, empower staff and sustain long-term growth. Don't forget to stop by and see us!
|Interop New York 2012 will be held in New York, NY, Oct. 1-5. This conference provides knowledge, expertise and insight to help IT and corporate decision-makers achieve business success. Offering in-depth educational programs, workshops, real-world demonstrations and live technology implementations, business professionals get to see first-hand the most powerful innovations and solutions the industry has to offer for success in today's market. Stop by booth #705 to learn more about Cetrom IT's Cloud solutions.
|December 4-6, 2012
|The ASAE Technology Conference & Expo 2012 will be held in Washington, D.C. Dec. 4-6. This event is the place where CEOs, CTOs, CIOs, CXOs, and other technology staff can gain knowledge, perspective and insight into the technology issues facing associations and nonprofits. Make a note to stop by and see us!


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Menswear designer John Varvatos is known in the industry for his love of rock and roll. So it's so cool that he's launching a special limited-edition "JIMI HENDRIX by John Varvatos" collection, featuring select men's apparel and accessories.
The collection, which will be limited edition for spring, is not a duplication of what Jimi wore. Rather, it is a view into the Hendrix closet through John Varvatos' eyes.
"This collection has been a passion project that began as I was editing images for my new book entitled John Varvatos: Rock in Fashion," said Varvatos. "I was exploring the black and white images of Jimi Hendrix by notable British portrait photographer Gered Mankowitz. Jimi was a visionary rocker whose influence reaches beyond music, defining the art of individual style. Using this inspiration, I created a contemporary, non-nostalgic mix that is tactile and precious, in a non-precious kind of way."
There are two tailored jacket options with intricate gold bullion details. There's also a loose-fitting nonchalant shirt paired with a lower rise, one back pocket fitted pant. To complete the wardrobe, Varvatos offers a hook and bar closure floral jacquard vest with trim tape at the front edge and shoulder seam, black slim-fit flare pants with embroidered designs on the side seam, and a wing-collared fluid silk shirt with front and back shirring and shaped French cuffs. His garment-washed vaquetta leather boots have a Shar-pei effect, lace-up detail and an elevated heel.
JIMI HENDRIX by John Varvatos will be available at JohnVarvatos.com. The collection's limited-edition quantities will range from 24 up to 340 individually-numbered pieces. Click here to view and pre-order the collection.


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Partnering with first responders to keep you safe
We're proud to partner with firefighters, police officers and emergency management officials in our communities. We train hundreds of first responders each year on the basics of gas emergencies and how to respond.
Are you an emergency responder? Check out our training program.


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This morning, I was assigned to review a poorly-converting email written by a business associate.
I thought it would be an excellent case study and decided to share it with you.
The goal of the email is to invite prospects to register for a Forex coaching program organized by a reputable trading firm. The problem? NOT A SINGLE SOUL signed up, even though the email was successfully delivered and opened by a total of 16,800 people in the mailing list.
Here's what the email said:
Hello Marc,
Have you ever considered a career as a private trader?
Did you know many private Foreign Exchange traders take home £100k to £2m per annum, with some traders starting with less than £10k in their trading accounts?
ACME is one of the world's Largest Foreign Exchange Company and is running some completely free workshops to show you how you can get started, regardless as to whether you choose to trade full time or part-time as a positive addition to your income.
Click here for more info.
What do think is wrong with the email? Why do you think it's converting poorly?
While the copy can dramatically be improved (more of which is discussed in the eBook, QuickStart Copywriter, in Section 8: Examples of Sales Writing that Work and Section 13: How to Craft Persuasive Body Copy), the biggest problem here is that there is no real urgency or call to action. In my professional opinion, "Click here for more info" is not compelling enough for me to click the link.
I would tell my readers a little more about the benefits they will discover when they click the link or say something like "Confirm your seat now and get a 50-page report revealing insider secrets from the world's highest paid Forex traders!" or some other offer that will entice people to click on the link.
Remember, the better your call to action, the higher your chances of getting your links opened by your readers – And making a sale!
Find this blog post helpful? Buy me coffee or send me a tip!


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2007 Mengmao Yunnan Qi Zi Bing Cha
This cake is the typical ripe Yunnan Qi Zi Bing Cha from Baoshan region
Menglong tea factory is located in Mengmao village, Longling county, Baoshan city, beside Heishan. LongLing is the traditional tea production area in Yunnan.This place, famous for the wild arbor tea (Qiao Mu), is the optimal ecological environment for the growth of grandifoliate planted tea trees. This cake is a typical ripe Yunnan Qi Zi Bing Cha. Different grade leaves (1 and 3 grade) were blended to provide a nice balanced and luscious flavor. The extracts of Pu抏r Tea increase with the years, producing a great deal of dissoluble sugar and pectin and its hydrolysates. More extracts the stronger taste. The brew is thick and the taste in the mouth is very aromatic. 357 grams per cake, 7 cakes per bamboo leaf tong!
Manufacturer : Menglong Tea factory
Material : Yunnan Grandifoliate Species Tea
Harvest Area : Longling
Production date : 28/11/2007
Weight : 357g


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"But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled." Then all the disciples deserted him and fled. Matthew 26:56
After celebrating the Passover feast with the disciples, Jesus went to the garden to pray. While there some leaders of the law came with some soldiers and arrested Him. Jesus states that all that was happening had to occur, because it was prophesied by the prophets of God. Those prophecies had to be fulfilled.
When a person assembles something together for the first time, there are a set of instructions to be followed. There is always a set order in how to assemble the object. If the instructions are not followed in correct order or some of the steps are entirely skipped, the object will not be assembled correctly and will not work.
People try to skip steps in order to complete it faster or because they think that they know what they are doing. Often when this happens another part does not work correctly or does not fit in correctly.
In this passage, there were a set order of things that had to occur in the life of the Jesus and the disciples. God had already set in motion what had to happen and how it was to happen. This was regardless of how it looked or felt by anyone.
In the life of a believer, God has set things in motion. He has a plan for your life in how things should occur and when they should occur.
Some of the prophecies that were made about you are that you would be persecuted, that God would give you strength, that you would be hated, that God would give you victory in the end, and that you will have eternal life.
The challenge with this is that some of those prophecies are not very comforting or easy to accept. All of the things that God allows in your life are being used to build you up and make you more like Jesus.
It was not easy for Jesus to go to the cross. It was not easy for the disciples to see Jesus go to the cross. But it was necessary. They had to keep moving forward in the path God laid out for them. The events had to occur.
The events in your life must occur to build you. Trust God as they occur today.
I pray today that you will know the prophecies of God for your life; that you will know God is in control; that you will trust God's plan for your life; and that you will grow closer to God through the events of your life.


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Settling with a Smile
Paph. Golden Dollar
Creates a calm and quiet joy. Helps the energetic lining of the stomach, and the etheric activity of the liver and gall bladder. Good to take after festive indulgences. Helps with emotional upset, giving one a sense of security. When children are studying, this essence will help to maintain focus.
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Durable, waterproof PVC floor liners protect your Chevrolet Avalanche's carpet from dirt and moisture. Ribs, treads, and raised edges help channel and contain spills. Multi-Point Locking system anchors the mats to prevent shifting. Trimming may be required.
Durable, Waterproof Construction
These durable, waterproof PVC floor liners protect your vehicle's carpet from dirt, mud, water, and snow. The ribs and treads molded into each mat help to channel spills. And the raised edges help contain liquids and debris to prevent them from reaching your carpet. Each mat has a double-layer heel guard to minimize wear and tear.
No-Slip Multi-Point Locking System
These floor mats feature a Multi-Point Locking system to prevent them from shifting and exposing areas of your carpet. This also helps keep the driver's-side mat in place so that it doesn't get caught under the pedals.
The Multi-Point Locking system consists of 3 types of anchors to keep the mats in place on your floor.
Claw-shaped anchors located on the portion of the mat beneath your feet secure that area of the liner to the floor. Each of these anchors includes a small claw and a large claw to grip your carpet and keep the mat from sliding forward.
Spike-style anchors are located under the double-layer heel guard on each mat. These anchors grip the floor to keep the driver's-side mat from sliding up under the pedals. They also prevent the passenger's-side mat from rolling up.
The lockdown feature consists of a hook-and-loop strip on the driver's-side mat. This strip grips your carpet like Velcro to help keep the mat in place when you're entering and exiting your vehicle.
Semi-Custom Design
These semi-custom floor liners may need to be trimmed for a better fit. The easy-trim guide on each mat makes this a hassle-free process.
Before trimming these front floor mats, place the mats in your vehicle to determine if they will need to be trimmed. If the mats are not flat against the floor, use the easy-trim guides to trim the mats so that they lay flat on the floor.
Videos are provided as a guide only. Refer to manufacturer installation instructions and specs for complete information.
Today we'll be looking at a line of the Hopkins semi-custom floor mats. You can find a variety of colors on our website at etrailer.com. Okay, so we've taken our mats out of the package. You'll notice that they're nice and heavy duty. They're made from a strong durable waterproof PVC construction. As you can see here, there are raised channels and treads.
These help divert the spills and debris coming off your shoes. You'll also notice the trim running around the outside here to make for a custom fit for your vehicle. You can cut these and they fit nicely up underneath your pedals and around your seat. We'll flip one of them over and you'll notice the claw-shaped anchors here and right up front. These are going to help secure it and keep it from sliding on your carpet. Okay, to start off, we'll going to go ahead and cut off this tab. Once we've got that one done, we'll go ahead and do the other one.
Now we'll go ahead and take our mat and we'll check for our fit. We'll come over here to our driver's side, go ahead and tuck our mat up underneath our pedals as far as it will go. Once again, keeping in mind that if you need to these are all trim points that you can cut for a custom fit for your vehicle. It's look like here with our mat in place we've actually lucked out and it makes a nice fit for our vehicle without having to trim any edges. For our passenger side, we'll take our floor mat, put it up as far as we can so everything evens out. All right.
That looks like we'll need to trim a little bit off right up here on the left side of the interior of our passenger side here. We'll just need to trim off this right here and up through here so we'll use that as a nice little guide. We'll start up here and work our way down, just making little cuts at a time. Good. Then we're ready to put it in our vehicle. With our mat trimmed now, we'll go ahead and place our mat back in our passenger side, get it in place where we originally wanted it.
As you can see, we have a nice semi-custom fit right up through on the left side here where we needed it trimmed. That'll complete our review of the Hopkins line of semi-custom auto floor mats. .
Average Customer Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars (1 Customer Reviews)Durable, waterproof PVC floor liners protect your vehicle's carpet from dirt and moisture. Ribs, treads, and raised edges help channel and contain spills. Multi-Point Locking system anchors the mats to prevent shifting. Trimming may be required.
Ordered these floor mats as replacement for the original and they are excellent. Very durable and inexpensive. 153089
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All I need is You Love Cushion Cover
Product Information :
- Set Contents: 1 Cushion Cover
- Style: Single side Printed
- Fabric: Glazed Cotton
- Color fastness of fabric and print – 100%
- Cushion Cover Closure: Flap (at back)
- Shape: Square
- Fillings not included
Gift All I need is You Love Cushion Cover to someone special of your life and make the sitting space more interesting and happening with these couple cushion cover set from our exclusive Cushion cover range. Get the best cushion covers online through Giftsmate. Convey your love to your near and dear ones with our huge range of cushion covers which have been created with wonderful designs and quotes. A great addition to anyone's room decor, these cushion covers brighten up the room. At Giftsmate, we offer a wide variety of cushion covers in funky designs and prints. A perfect gift for any occasion, these cushion covers would serve as a constant reminder of your love. Plus, these covers come in exciting designs and spice up one's room decor. While there is a full collection of cushion covers with photos, you will also find a range of cushion covers for everyone with the family and romantic couple cushion covers.
Gift Suggestions: Valentines Day Gifts for Girlfriend, Romantic Anniversary Love Gifts for Girlfriend, Birthday Gifts for Girlfriend.
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Florist Aprons & Accessories
Our range of shop accessories for florists gives you the opportuntity to have every detail of your business covered with our collection of wholesale florist aprons, spray bottles, cable ties, staplers, pricing guns, acrylic water and more.... read more
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We also have a range of accessories to help ensure your bouquets and floral arrangements are perfectly in place and look their best for your clients, with supplies such as foam balls, flower bowls, floral spray paint, parafilm tape and safety cutters to help fine tune your arrangements. Shop our collection today for all your florist needs at Koch & Co.


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The Advent of Jesus Christ
Dear People of God,
One famous Christmas song gleefully declares: "It's the most wonderful time of the year!" That of course means different things to different people. For the Christian, this "most wonderful time of the year" should be a time of celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and the fact that God truly dwelled in human flesh "with us". This time of year should also be lived in eager anticipation and joyful expectation as we await the return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
Our English word 'Advent' comes from a Latin word 'Adventus' that means "coming". Advent season has historically had a special place on the calendar because the purpose of this festive season is to remind the people of God of Christ's first advent or coming in a manger in Bethlehem who came to live and die for the sins of his people. The Advent season has historically been the time when we celebrate Christ's first coming.
Something that can be forgotten however is the fact that the Advent Season is not only about the glorious birth of our Savior, but it is also a season of celebration to remind the people of God of a second advent where the resurrected-ascended-glorified Christ will return to fully manifest his rule and dominion over heaven and earth, and to glorify his "Maranatha people"- -those who are eagerly awaiting his return, who cry out: "Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus in this present evil age!
Each day of the year, Christians should live as if it was Advent Season. Christians should day by day live expectantly awaiting Christ's Second Coming (parousia- Gk.), living in light of the gospel of the First Advent of Christ, and hoping each day for gospel of the Second Advent and full revelation of the New Heavens and the New Earth in Christ!
This can be perhaps the most wonderful time of the year because it can cause people to be pregnant with expectation and hope, but if we have the eschatological perspective of the Apostle Peter in 1 Peter 4 in our minds, we can experience this love, hope and joyful expectation each day of the year!
During this season I have been reflecting on 1 Peter 4:7-11 as an excellent Advent scripture text to keep in the forefront of our minds and imaginations as those united to Christ Jesus (and particularly in light of our recent Galatians series). This scripture has helped me to be reminded of the fact that every day can be like the Advent Season!
The Apostle Peter writes:
ESV 1 Peter 4:7-11: The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies- in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
The Apostle Peter reminds us that because we live as a Church at the end of the eschatological age awaiting eagerly the Second Advent of Christ ("the end of all things is at handâ€, v. 7a), Christians should be those who are self-controlled and sober-minded in order to prayerfully focus our attention on the Second Advent of Christ that is always at hand (v. 7b).
In light of this end being near (including the end of this present evil age of sin and misery, and all of our various iindividual sufferings God lovingly calls us to in Christ), we are to keep loving one another earnestly because love covers a multitude of sins (v. 8b). That is, love covers all of the sins that we continue to struggle with as those united to Jesus Christ by faith (v. 8). The true love of Christ covers the sins that we continue to see in ourselves, as well as in other brothers and sisters.
In other words, we should live lovingly "others-centered" as we serve and love them resisting our own sinful tendency toward selfishness and self-centeredness!
The Apostle Peter goes on to remind us that in light of the Second Advent of Christ to be those who show their love in service to one another! Act as if you are gifted by God- - because you are - -and in light of your giftedness, lovingly serve the brethren with the strength that God supplies, without grumbling (v. 9), complaining, biting and devouring each other (cf. Gal. 5:13-16).
We should ask ourselves daily: "How are we doing individually before God as "stewards of God's manifold or varied grace?†(v. 10). The question reminds us that we are recipients in Jesus Christ of his grace and gifts and that we are therefore never without what we need the most- -God's grace!
Peter says that God will be glorified through our loving service in Jesus Christ! Peter closes with a grand and eloquent doxology that we are to remember: Christ is the One we are ultimately glorifying and serving when we live like this by His grace and strength (v. 11c).
Remember at this time of Advent: Creation shows that God is above us; the Law shows that God is against us; the manger shows us God with us! And if God is with us, he is for us in Jesus Christ!
Rejoice people of God in your Savior!
Each day can be like Advent season as the people of God if you keep the right eschatological focus and expectation on Jesus Christ seated at God's right hand!
Merry Christmas! And may this be the most wonderful time of the year for you...and may it continue each day throughout the year!
In Christ,
Pastor Biggs
Pastor Biggs,
Great encouragement and thanks!
I was gathered around a table with 6 other Ministers the other day to happily discover we had been reading Colossians; yet none knew the other had been led to read it too. The discussion of the Advent came up to which we all focused on a particular verse from Chapter three:
Col 3:4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
I was wonderfully filled with a sense of AWE experiencing the Grace and Mercy and as the outcome, Peace from God by that discussion.
Our conversation then turned to the topic of DEATH.
Just recently I have had to focus deliberately on Death seeing there have been six deaths I have experienced recently. Three of them have generated hopelessness in the broader community where I live while three of them have increased the sense of AWE in God and His Grace, Mercy and Peace. It is in that as far as I know personally, only three of those recent deaths were not in vain while the other three were deaths suffered in vain.
The three that were suffered in vain, I believe, were violent deaths caused by Police shooting the person.
One was a mentally disoriented woman with issues with everyone and who thought she could take on the S.W.A.T. and survive after pointing a flare gun at them in a moment of time and was blasted by their return fire.
The second death was that of a 16 year old boy who thought he could get high on drugs that deadly day and then not comply with a lawful order of a Police officer and then lunge at the Officer with a knife and nothing would happen. He was carried away as well.
And the final death was done to a 51 year old man whose life went from bad to worse and for whatever reason decided to shoot it out with Police.
Now on the other hand the other three deaths were all of Christians, who, one died by a tragic traffic accident, [she was 19, a virgin girl soon to be married]; another was a 34 year old mother leaving two teenagers; and the third was a 65 year old grandfather. All three died by one circumstance or another, particular and unique. But all died in Christ and all will, as the Apostle Paul asserts there in Colossians 3:4 APPEAR WITH HIM IN GLORY WHEN THE SECOND ADVENT OCCURS.
Now, I cannot say with certainty of the three deaths in vain, seeing what is known about them is they were not "connected" to any "Body of Believers" in this civil realm. But with certainty I cannot say the others will not appear with Him when He comes back in Glory!
To those first three, there is a sorrow that lingers. With the other three, the sorrow and grief fades to a Holy Anticipation of seeing them again when the Lord will come in Glory. I, either here then or also coming with Him when He appears in Glory and by virtue of His Appearing, will have fellowship with them in Christ as Christ comes to give that final temporal grant of Grace, Mercy and Peace to those conjoined to Him for eternity.
I, with those other three and countless others, you, will APPEAR WITH HIM and live forever in this Wonderful "first fruits" sense of AWE we found ourselves around that table the other day talking about and experiencing, those seven of us Ministers of Reconciliation as we discussed Colossians 3:4.
Thanks again for your Words and I join with you by these words in expressing my heartfelt expression of Thanks to Our Heavenly Father during this season of celebration of the Greatest LIVING Birth of His Son by the Virgin woman He brought to pass by the Holy Ghost!
Col 3:3-4: For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
Pastor Biggs,
Thanks for that great reminder and exhoration. I've highlighted this article at my blog:
Blessing to you and your family this Advent season.


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Today sucked. More than yesterday. I'm not saying life sucks and I would rather be dead, but I am feeling drained and cranky as hell. The only consolation is that I'm sharing the feeling with about 350,000 other people, a number of whom I had eye contact with today as I made a 20 minute delivery that took an astounding four hours. At least the customer I got to meet was awesome. ;)
Many people went back to work today, which is great for a sense of normality but hell for traffic, which moves at a snails pace around a reduced number of roads, nearly all of which have damage. For the forseeable future, in this topsy-turvy new Christchurch, the long way is actually the short way. In addition, for our driving pleasure, in todays baking temperatures the liquefaction has begun to dry into a fine dust that I could feel skimming my arm as I tried to cool it in the flow of what passes for air-con in my 1992 Honda. About 40% of the traffic lights are out and traffic control is entirely a matter of driver politeness. So it was four hours of enforced detours, standstills, scary intersections and gagging on earthquake dust, while secure in the knowledge that any shower awaiting me at home would be cold. All of this though, only put me in a mild grouch.
Crying with relief to finally lay (gritty) eyes on my own front door, I poured a well-deserved but not too substantial vino and checked my email and the news. One of the updates involved my local supermarket, St Martins New World, and this is where The Suck really started to settle in. Sadly, the update stated that my favourite shop spot would not be reopening as it is damaged beyond repair. :( This is a terrible thing for my local community. Some people around here do not have cars and rely on a supermarket within walking distance. The complex also holds the Post Shop from which we send all the Sana orders, the only close pharmacy and a bank. There is an undamaged coffee-shop, hairdresser, accountant and childrens toy shop directly across the road, but who is going to want to drink espresso while looking at the ruins our once vibrant shopping centre? The staff in these buildings, and some of the customers, were like friends - from checkout clerks to the super-knowledgeable 'wine guy' to the intellectually disabled trolley guys that followed me to my car, unloading my shopping and returning the trolley to the trolley-bay before I'd even started the engine. It was always buzzing, the hub of the community.
St Martins was also the best supermarket in Christchurch, particularly for a nutbar like me. It was the first to have organic food of any kind and pioneered organics in supermarkets. When I lived in Cashmere I used to drive quite some distance to shop there, and when I moved in with The Programmer, I counted myself lucky to be within easy walking distance. New World is not my only fave shop. The others I use weekly are Opawaho - currently partially functional due to it being in the shadow of an enormous broken church that is in imminent danger of falling over (i.e. you can shop in half of it, the rest is roped off with a brave captive assistant to run around and get what you ask for) , Piko - their perfect veges and selection of organic wines housed in a truly beautiful old building which is now mostly a pile of beautiful old bricks, and The Liberty Market, which I am unsure of the status of. I saw the building from one side today and it looked sound, also the website message looks promising. Thank goodness my butcher is all good to go or I'd be ready to sit down and just bawl loudly. I love my hunting and gathering.. well, the gathering part.
It may seem strange that, as regards property wreckage, it is the demise of this not-particularly-picturesque shopping centre that has affected me the most. Up until 12.51pm last Tuesday, the previously mentioned Post Shop there was an essential part of the Sana Direct ritual of daily dispatches. It was never crowded, and the manager and women that worked there know me by sight and I'm sure were quietly amused with the daily goings on of those crazy Sana Direct people. I accidentally dropped some cacao beans once and they knew who to give it to when I came in the next day. I don't know any of them personally, not really, and it makes me sad that I may never see them again or know if they are ok. The buildings and carpark are a mess. There is heaps of liquefaction, but worse than that are the hills that have pushed up in places where the liquefaction did not break through. The supermarket has hills in the aisles. Not a problem to me (shoppercise!), but I'm not sure the trend would catch on, especially if it meant the roof was more likely to fall on ones head in the wine aisle. The supermarket is the biggest personal inconvenience (I can't use the word 'loss' when some have experienced the death of a loved one) but from a business point of view, it's the sudden disappearance of the Post Shop that requires the immediate implementation of a previously non-existent Plan B. Today I have begun the process of deciding what to do about dispatches, which is primarily the part of the business that I deal with directly (the rest I mainly 'organise', which some call 'bossing around').
This morning I decided to drop around to the next closest functioning Post Shop to ask about status of deliveries and to send some product, if I could. Bad idea. The dust and road damage in that area is intense and the queue of people with things to send went out the door and down the road, so I just kept driving, out of town and all the way the Halswell - say 30 minutes away. Out there it hardly looks like a quake zone and the Post Shop was quite calm. The assistant explained to me that all mail should have been retrieved from the closed Post Shops, and that she didn't hold out hope for the reopening of the St Martins store. However, it was great to hear they had today cleared their backlog and that deliveries out of Christchurch are now running pretty much on schedule. Therefore, Sana customers, any items you are anxiously awaiting will be a matter of days away, and I thank you for your patience. Also, let it be known ("hear ye, hear ye!") that Sana customers and blog readers (customers or not!) are the best people in the world. The fact that you have kept ordering and/or emailed in droves to ask how we are just proves it. I can't even express how grateful we are to you all.
In terms of the long term, it's not practical to be driving to Halswell every day. We will probably revert to our previous system of using a courier that does pick ups (once the roads are passable to trucks) - the only problem with that being that the couriers either do not make rural and Post Box deliveries or charge a hefty supplement for them. The only one that does not charge extra for RD and PO is CourierPost but they are also the most expensive generally; oh, the eternal dilemma of trying to get the best deal for everyone!. What I envisage is using a courier (probably PostHaste which have a depot close to the dispatch centre) for most deliveries daily but still sending RD and PO deliveries from a Post Shop, but less frequently, maybe twice a week. Any feedback on this idea is appreciated. I just need to get it sorted out quickly, and it certainly isn't something that was on my 'to do' list before last Tuesday.
So, that was MY day. I hope yours was 1000% better and lacked suck. Tomorrow I'll be posting about why I'm not currently on a plane and getting the frak out of this shaky place. Then you can make up your minds about whether I have managed to hang onto enough of my sanity or not! I keep expecting Kek to turn up my doorstep to stage an intervention. I'm sure, if it wasn't for the distinct chance of earthquake, she probably would because she is just great like that. Over and Out.


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Multi-Rail RM System
Multi-Rail is the best selling generic purpose workholding system from OK-VISE. Compared to a traditional machine vise, the Multi-Rail system offers the following benefits:
- By deploying various system components even the most challenging workpiece types can be machined
- All sides of a workpiece can be machined with two setups
- Multiple workpieces can be clamped on the same area
- The workpiece is always safely fixtured
- Oversized workpieces can also be safely fastened
To enable an easy start with OK-VISE components, we have put together Fixture sets.
Just like in all Fixturing Concept systems, Multi-Rail RM sets are built using some of the basic modules:
- Clamp modules (RMC-)
- Stop modules (RMS-)
- Side guides (SMG-)
- Parallels and riser blocks (RMP-)
Multi-Rail RM is a perfect basic fixturing system for any machining center.
For heavy-duty installations, we recommend to use the Multi-Rail RH System.


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Transcript ICT RDI Roadmap Development - Global Forum on Innovation and
5th Global Forum on Innovation & Technology Entrepreneurship: East London, Eastern Cape Province 30 May 2013 © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 1 Presentation Outline • South African ICT RDI Policy Evolution • Context – South African ICT RDI Implementation Roadmap • Vision and Strategy • Building South Africa's Ambition • The 10-year Investment Portfolio • Structured Engagements © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 2 ICT RDI Policy Timeline ICT R&D and I Roadmap 10Yr Innovation Plan To build a knowledge-based economy Identified ICT as Key Tech Mission Creation of Meraka Developing the NSI S&T White Paper 1996 Approved by SA Cabinet ICT R&D and I Strategy Approved under ISAD Plan Creation of DST R&D Strategy 2002 © 2012 Department Science and Technology To conduct: R&D, Application Dev and HCD 2004 2005 CONFIDENTIAL 2006 2007/08 2012/13 3 Grand challenges Enablers Ten-Year Innovation Plan Technology development and innovation BioEconomy Space Science Energy Global Change Human and Social Dynamics Cross- cutting enablers Human capital - Centres of excellence, South African research chairs initiative, professional development programme, etc. Knowledge infrastructure – Science councils, state-owned enterprises, global projects International cooperation; regional and continental partnership ICT RDI Roadmap supports the Grand Challenges as a cross-cutting sector . ICT is one of the technology missions identified in the National R&D Strategy of 2002 © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 4 4 The Economic and Social value of ICT Economic Growth When Internet penetration rises by 10% in emerging economies, GDP increases by 1 to 2 % ICT is a driver of economic growth In South Africa "the Internet economy is worth R59 billion (2011) and contributes some 2% to GDP" Sources: ICT for Economic Growth: A Dynamic Ecosystem Driving The Global Recovery - World Economic Forum, 2011 Kenya Economic Update, December 2010 Worldwide Worx Report The GDP growth rate of a developing country can be boosted by 0,59 % per annum for every 10 mobile telephones added per 100 inhabitants For the U.S. economy, every $ invested in broadband provides a tenfold return. Faster broadband deployment in Europe could create 1 million jobs and growth of €850 billion through 2015. "ICT has been the main driver of Kenya's economic growth over the last decade. … Since 2000, Kenya's economy grew at an average of 3.7 percent. Without ICT, growth would have been a lacklustre 2.8%" 5 Underinvestment in ICT R&D, in international comparison 2009 data, pa Population (million) GDP $Bn GERD % GDP ICT R&D as % GERD ICT R&D as % GDP ICT R&D Expenditure ($Bn) ICT Sector Size ($Bn) 50 286 0,92% 13,1% 0,12% 0,34 29 191 1 572 0,9% 19,4% 0,46% 7,3 110 South Korea 49 929 3,0% 44,8% 1,73% 16,1 261 Australia 23 925 1,7% 15,9% 0,43% 4,0 129 Taiwan 23 379 2,3% 19,0% 1,85% 6,4 200 South Africa Brazil South Africa spends R&D intensity of South Government, universities close to 10% of GDP on Africa has stabilised at and science councils have ICT goods and services, around 0.92% of GDP a keen interest in ICT RDI, of which most are over the past few years, but funding and current imported but is still well below the spending on ICT R&D is global norm of 2% limited compared to other fields To harness the socio-economic benefits of ICT and to be a player in ICT, we must significantly increase investment in ICT RDI © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 6 Three key investment levers for creating Impact via ICT R&D enabling Access R&D enabling Services Advanced Skills Development DST Role: Promote R&D and Strengthen National System of Innovation relating to enablement of Readiness and Use Advanced Skills Development to underpin technological leadership to benefit from Digital Convergence Source: ITU – Measuring the Information Society © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 7 ICT RDI Roadmap Development Background DST initiated the development of a 10-year ICT Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Vision and Implementation Roadmap, intended to: Take the national ICT RDI Strategy to the next level, in a way that strengthens the local ICT ecosystem Enable DST to develop and implement a set of specific interventions required to guide and direct ICT RDI activity in South Africa Position South Africa more competitively in the global market, taking cognisance of and addressing the challenges facing a developing economy DST and CSIR Meraka Institute partnered to develop this Roadmap for South Africa Intent 1. Enable increased public and private investment in ICT RDI 2. Provide a framework to plan and coordinate technology development, in order to enable efficient and sophisticated investment decision-making 8 VISION © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 9 Vision: Create Digital Advantage for South Africa – from individual to society Our vision is for a South Africa that has overcome the Digital Divide; by leveraging advances in ICT to address socio-economic challenges it has created Digital Advantage This will be done through sound investment and effective coordination of ICT R&D and innovation activities Principal focus: satisfaction of National Needs (deliver Impact against 12 Outcomes) Focused export activity as technologies arrive on-market (ie AFIS) Test technologies with local customers before broader export 10 SOUTH AFRICA'S AMBITION: BUILT FROM THE BOTTOM UP © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 11 Developing the ICT RDI Roadmap – Ecosystem Triangulation Methodology © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 12 Broad Participation in ICT RDI Roadmap Development 127 106 44 40 17 2 1 © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 13 ICT RDI Strategic Prioritization Trends Identification of Drivers of Need and Demand for ICT – Global and for South Africa Analysis of Hot Topics (Desktop Research) Trends Prioritisation (Workshop) The Global ICT Ecosystem Market Opportunities Landscape © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 14 Building the ICT RDI Ecosystem Strength and Maturity identified in more than 140 capability areas © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 15 Global ICT ecosystem Data source: Thomson Reuters Web of Science, Articles , Proceedings and Meeting Abstracts. N:about 60 000 Note: Data not cleaned – work in progress © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 16 Clear intent and direction More attractive partners; more active and Smarter Buyers Opportunities Options N Import Case for Action ? Y Strategic ? ► Value, Impact ? ► Addressable ? ► Ecosystem Strategy? Partners Develop alone ? Positioning ? Collaborate ? Objectives ? Benefits? Build for... Result: Increased national investment and FDI; with more balanced and mutually beneficial relationships © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 17 THE 10-YEAR INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 18 Digital Advantage: 6-Point Cluster Driven Strategy Presentation www.dst.gov.za © 2012 Department Science and Technology 19 CONFIDENTIAL 19 Geo-Spatial Applications: Intervention and Impact Intervention Impact RDI Activity Wealth Build Capacity Underlying Science Competence very spread out, so needs better coordination. Set up Centre of Competence to prime and focus relationship between industry, science councils and users. Develop Top 3 prioritised list of applications, then establish a community around each of these –status, R&D efforts, investment opportunities Contribution to economy 2.6Bn New businesses 7 medium, 35 small Advanced remote sensing, sensor web enablement and OGC web services, geomatics, spatial databases, EO data structures & algorithms, image processing, machine learning and time-series analysis, scientific Job Creation 700 high-tech, 2800 other workflows, HPC for EO Quality of Life Access to localised geospatial services Leverage Earth Observation Data Centre, CHPC. Expand storage, broadband connectivity to share data. Own space assets, in-situ sensing networks, ground, field, water, meteorological data and systems Service Delivery Improvements enabled through availability of local geo-spatial applications for public sector institutions HCD, HRD Via Centre of Excellence Strategic Advantage Techniques for development of massively scalable algorithms Foreign Policy Objectives GEOSS and participation in global forums and meeting global targets and initiatives. Participation and support in Africa Self sufficiency Science Objectives Localised solutions Society RDI Infrastructure Install, Expand Knowledge Competence IP Ecosystem Industry Participation Set up Centre of Excellence – Stellenbosch, Pretoria, UCT Marine R&D Institutions, Science Councils GIS and Geo-spatial companies. Industry customers – users of geospatial information to provide services Partnerships RCMRD, US geo-spatial institutes, ESA and Frame Work Programme participants Via market-focused Centre of Competence and network of industry customers Innovation Commercialisation Focus on services, software packages, knowledge application (consulting and advisory services) © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL Government Action Policy Regulation 20 Progression Paths Guide Investment and evolution of Interventions towards delivery of Impact © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 21 At each stage of evolution, different Instruments are required Illustration © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 22 Initial focus is on Six Strategic Priority Areas 5 2 1 4 6 © 2012 Department Science and Technology 3 CONFIDENTIAL 23 Structured Engagements: Govt. Intervention for RDI Driven Impact Technology Expertise People Research Outputs Research Institutions Outcomes Improved quality of basic education Government A long and healthy life for all South Africans Policy and Strategy All people in South Africa are and feel safe Decent employment through inclusive economic growth A skilled and capable workforce to support an inclusive growth path Service Delivery Services Products and services Higher Education Strategy People Value Chain Industry © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL An efficient, competitive and responsive economic infrastructure network Vibrant, equitable and sustainable rural communities with food security for all Sustainable human settlements and improved quality of household life A responsive, accountable, effective and efficient local government system Environmental assets and natural resources that are well protected and continually enhanced Create a better South Africa and contribute to a better and safer Africa and World An efficient, effective and development oriented public service and an empowered, fair and inclusive citizenship 24 Structured Engagement with International and Local Industry Partners Priority Area Broadband Infrastructure and Services Astronomy and Data Science Development M-Health Smart and Green Geo-Spatial and Global Change Partner CISCO Parsec IBM ZTE Microsoft Redline Communications Nokia Siemens Networks CellC MTN IBM SDRI SAP Intel Microsoft GSMA Cell Life GeoMed Mobenzi Hello Doctor M-Lab ESKOM Tellumat Engagement Model Partner Student / Researcher Exchanges Google Early Access to Technology Intel (MIC Chip) Joint Facilities SAP, IBM SDRI Technical Support DELL, Nokia Siemens Networks Joint Projects Nokia, Microsoft, DiData Access to Expertise Microsoft, IBM Sasol Absa ESKOM International Eskom equivalents NASA © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 25 Monitoring and management of objectives and investment via Portfolio Management approach ► Define Objectives, Key Initiatives, Strategic and Operating Plans ► Set RDI Portfolio Investment Plans to achieve business strategy Manage Investment "To ensure efficient and transparent coordination, monitoring and active management – across strategic, tactical and operational levels - of the portfolio of RDI investments made by South Africa in ICT" Grow Ecosystem ► Continuously monitor Portfolio for progress and Impact ► Prioritise, review and refine Programme investments to meet strategic goals ► Re-balance resource allocation – capacity and investment – with investment priorities ► ► ► Source, evaluate, approve and Project proposals Initiate project investments ► Improved coordination of research activity ► Inherent incentives to cooperate ► More targeted engagement with industry ► Focused international collaboration ► Stronger connection with innovation channels ► More comprehensive and transparent monitoring (of investment and impact) ► A better basis of tracking HCD outputs Monitor and review project progress; evaluate benefits delivery 26 THANK YOU Jeanette Morwane Director: ICT & Services Industry Tel: +27 12 843 6439 Email: [email protected] ICT RDI Implementation Roadmap www.dst.gov.za/images/ICT_RDI_Roadmap.pdf 27 © 2012 Department Science and Technology CONFIDENTIAL 27


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Information for 10794IIED
India's peri-urban frontier: rural-urban transformations and food security
Fiona Marshall, Pritpal Randhawa
Working paper, 40 pages
In India, peri-urban areas are too often neglected. Many people live in poverty and face increasing marginalisation and food insecurity. Yet peri-urban agriculture could be a major contributor to poverty alleviation and food security.
This working paper examines rural-urban transformations in India in relation to changes in food production, access, consumption, nutritional quality and safety. To improve health and nutrition, a more holistic, food security-based perspective is needed. Policy and planning must support those fragile communities engaged in peri-urban agriculture while protecting the environmental services on which they depend. It also discusses examples of specific policies and programmes and considers knowledge gaps, governance challenges and mechanisms that might help facilitate pro-poor food security developments on the ground.
Publication information
- IIED code: 10794IIED
- Published: Apr 2017 - IIED
- Area: India
- Themes: Urban, Food and agriculture
- Language:
Project information
Urbanisation drives profound transformations in rural areas and in food systems, presenting both challenges and opportunities for poverty reduction, rural development and food security. Policies at the local, national, regional and global scales are of critical importance in shaping rural-urban linkages and the political economy of food systems.
More at www.iied.org:
Urbanisation, rural-urban transformations and food systems


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Brad Pitt says that fiancee Angelina Jolie is officially back in the swing of things following her news-making double mastectomy, which was completed back in April and revealed via New York Times Op-Ed piece last month. "Business as usual. She's doing great," Pitt, 49, told George Stephanopoulos on Good Morning America Monday, June 17.
Promoting World War Z, the actor explained his longtime love's decision to go public with her bold decision to undergo the preventative procedure after genetic tests revealed she was at extremely high risk for breast cancer. "When she wrote her piece, we had already come out the other end and we're feeling really good about it," Pitt said of his love of eight years. "We're really surprised and moved by how many people are dealing with the same issue, or wondering about the same issue."
Jolie, 38, made a stunning comeback to the spotlight after the Times piece was published to join her love at several European premieres of World War Z earlier this month; the duo celebrated her birthday with their six kids in tow during a June 4 dinner in Berlin.
Pitt continued to gush of his love: "Her idea was that if someone could learn from her story, then she would love to share that. But it's just been a beautiful thing to watch and her focus now is that all people have access to the testing and know what they can do about it. And she has certainly shown if you do your research and make your decision, what's best for you, it doesn't have to be a scary thing."
For access to all our exclusive celebrity videos and interviews – Subscribe on YouTube!


text: No doubt, the digital world has exploded, but we're still tactile in nature. As much as you want your downloadable PDF to save on paper and postage, the printed piece is still favored by many. So, with one foot in the past and another in the present, at WhiteStone, we can print up your materials whether they be short runs off our digital press or large offset press runs.


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Medical Visa & Medical Attendant (Single entry)
Up to 6 months
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Address: Embassy of India, Bishkek : chancery : 100-A, Mahatma Gandhi Street, Bishkek - 720010 (Kyrgyzstan) .
Working hours: 09:00 hours to 17:30 hours. Consular hours: 0930-1130 hrs.
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I awoke this morning to the UPS delivery guy dropping off a package at my house; lo and behold, it was a DROID Incredible 2 (Dinc2) review unit. As an EVO owner, I'm fairly familiar with what has fast become HTC's modus operandi - high quality, good price, and higher-end specs. With that in mind, I was looking forward to my time with the Dinc2, and tore into the box immediately (I didn't even put a shirt on first... sorry, UPS guy).
Let's state the obvious right up front: the Dinc2 isn't going to break any records. We've already got dual-core phones with more RAM, we've seen handsets with bigger and better screens, and it's not packing 4G. In fact, because of just how "vanilla" the Dinc2 is in terms of hardware, it's failed to make much of a publicity splash. It really feels like more of a mid-model upgrade than an entirely new device. Still, as Artem discussed yesterday, there are enough notable changes over its predecessor to keep it competitive with other high-end devices. Let's take a look at the specs:
- 1GHz Snapdragon CPU (MSM8655 @ 45nm)
- 16GB onboard storage
- 8MP camera, 1.3MP around front
- Sense 2.1
- 1450 mAh battery
- 802.11b/g/(n) (though n isn't enabled)
- CDMA + GSM radios ("global" phone)
There are a few things you'll notice immediately upon turning the device on. First, the Incredible 2 features fast boot, which I completely forgot. It certainly made things weird when I pulled the phone out of the sealed box and it turned on instantly, as though the screen had only just been turned off (rebooting is also quite fast).
Next, I always forget just how genuinely good Sense is. I know a lot of people just love to hate manufacturer UIs without discretion, but I'm always pleasantly surprised by it - and Sense 2.1 is no exception. For example, it allows for much finer control over linking contacts to Facebook/Twitter/etc. The app drawer can be sorted by source (all, downloaded, frequent, and Verizon). The weather widget is cool, as is the flip clock. The lock screen and UI elements are also much more attractive in Sense than they are in stock Android.
The hardware here comes together very well. The phone is very snappy and smooth, and manages to snag a score of roughly 1600 in Quadrant (versus my slightly overclocked EVO running CM7.0.2, which pulls about a 1350). Just benchmarks? Sure, but the way the phone "feels" reflects that performance gap.
Build quality is, as expected, top-notch. The device is quite light compared to many other phones, but ever-so-slightly heavier than the original Dinc, according to official measures. Contrary to many other HTC devices, the Inc2 doesn't feature any "splashes" of color anywhere, even under the battery cover (which, by the way, is a pain to get off) - all black on this one. Everything fits together very tightly and feels quite solid.
I've had a few hours now to play with the phone, but that should cover all the basics for now. Be sure to check back in a few days for our full review!


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Women come in all shapes and sizes, not to mention the shape-shifting that occurs after giving birth, entering menopause and anything in between. Bring joy to getting ready in the morning, so you feel like a million bucks when you leave the house!
Say goodbye to the "one size fits all" approach to dressing and get the inside (and personalized) scoop with Victoria.
During this workshop you will learn:
- Discover your body type: how to dress for YOUR shape, minimize those trouble spots, look 10 lbs thinner
- How to take your outfit from good to great
- Learn about pattern density, how to mix patterns and make stripes work for you
- How to make the hottest trends work for you
Be ready for a night of fun & fashion.
Worksheets will be emailed in advance of workshop


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San Francisco Giants Join the 'It Gets Better' Campaign
The world champion San Francisco Giants this week became the first professional sports team to fashion a PSA for the "It Gets Better" national anti-homophobia campaign. "There's no place in society for hatred and bullying against anyone," says pitcher Barry Zito, one of five Giants who appear in the 60-second spot. The players look right into the camera and read their lines. This no-frills approach makes the message more direct and personal than, say, a big-budget commercial with lots of production values. Contrast the Giants' approach with last year's controversial mini epic by Ogilvy London for the Football Association in the U.K. That over-the-top, expletive-laden 90-second film, which focused on an uber-hater who harasses everyone in sight, was certainly memorable. But I doubt it made much of impact on abusers or emboldened ordinary folks to take any sort of action against intolerance. It was perhaps too loud and dramatic for its own good. Conversely, the quiet simplicity of the Giants spot works in its favor, casting the players as mentors or compassionate older brothers. It's an effective bully pulpit to deliver a message of empathy and hope, and by not overpromising, lends credibility to the premise that "it gets better" for harassed kids. Let's hope other teams step up to the plate soon and support the cause.
The Fans. The Brands. Social Good. The Future of Sports. Don't miss the upcoming Brandweek Sports Marketing Summit and Upfronts, a live virtual experience on Nov. 16-19. Early-bird passes available until Oct. 26. Register now.


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Canadian Open to return to Glen Abbey in 2015
BY foxsports • May 15, 2014
Golf Canada said Thursday that the Canadian Open will return to Glen Abbey next year, marking the 27th time the national championship will be played at the Jack Nicklaus-designed course in Oakville.
Brandt Snedeker won last year at Glen Abbey.
The PGA Tour event will be played July 23-26, 2015.
This year's tournament is set for July 24-27 at Royal Montreal.
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And on my last Sunday in Berat I went to church.
I woke up early and strolled the same boulevard that on every night is full of people, teeming with excitement and joy. But in the early hours of the morning nothing is going on. Some of the places are opened but they sell nothing but coffee. It is too early to get a croissant or something to eat. The cleaning ladies are washing the backs of the restaurants, a man sweeps the street, another collects the garbage. I walked for a while.
Updated 09-20-2019 at 08:33 AM by ponchi101
In Albania, I am told, religions know how to get along.
Shqipëri is tiny and it is ancient so it is a place that has been invaded, pillaged, conquered, raided and demoted/promoted from region to country to fiefdom to Kingdom to district to Empire (part of one) to now a republic. So it is not hard to realize that religions here have had to live with each other for a long time. In ancient times, the Apollonians (the beautiful ones) constantly quarreled with the Vulcanians (those that followed


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NBA 2K14 is Best Selling Sports Title for PS4 and Xbox One in US
NBA 2K14 is Best Selling Sports Title for PS4 and Xbox One in US
NBA 2K14 is the best selling sports game in the U.S. on the next-gen consoles, PS4 and Xbox One. According to NPD, the game beat out FIFA 14, Madden NFL 25, and NBA Live 14, all three made by EA Games.
NBA 2K14 was overall the top selling game on both consoles as well, and sixth best selling game when all console versions were added in, USA Today reports.
NBA 2K14 is outselling NBA 2K13 with just the next-gen versions of the game, which is a pleasant and surprising revelation for 2K Sports, they announced Friday.
"If you look at the current generation and the next-generation [of NBA 2K14] together, we've actually sold in more units combined than we did last year on just the current generation," said Karl Slatoff, Take-Two President, reports PlayStation Lifestyle. "So you hear a lot in the industry right now about the problems that developers are having in the transition period and the risk that are associated with transition, which are all very true. But in our specific situations, we only have one game right now for next-gen. We're not seeing that."
2K's latest game has gotten rave reviews, and has sold very well in both the next-gen and previous gen versions of the game.
"The PS3 and the 360 version and the PS4 and the Xbox One version are actually different games and with different development cycles behind them. So as a combined unit, we're actually seeing an increase over last year in terms of selling at this point. So we're not seeing… that pain in transition," he continued.
NBA 2K14 was released on Oct. 1 and arrived to the PS4 on Nov. 15 and the Xbox One on Nov. 22.


text: Children are expected to dress in a suitable way for a day at school. Flat shoes should be worn during the day and runners must be worn for P.E. lessons. A warm outdoor coat is necessary as classes go outside at playtime. Due to health and safety rules jewellery such as large hoop earrings are not allowed in school; also all facial ornamentation is forbidden.


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WASHINGTON — Republicans are united on repealing President Obama's health care law, but ideologically and practically speaking, they're in different camps over replacing it. Getting the factions together won't be easy.
Some Republicans would revise and rebrand the law, junking unpopular provisions like its requirement that most Americans carry health insurance, while preserving well-liked parts. Others would rip up the Affordable Care Act, and not replace it.
President-elect Donald Trump and Republican congressional leaders will have to unite the groups on complicated changes affecting the financial and physical well-being of millions of people. For some constituents in fragile health, it's literally a life-and-death debate.
Republicans have ''a really narrow path,'' says Grace-Marie Turner of the Galen Institute, a free-market health-care research organization. ''They've got to deal with the politics of this, they've got to make sure they come up with good policy, and they also have process challenges.''
Success is not guaranteed, and Republicans may come to regret that their party defined itself as totally opposed to the Obama law.
Yet House Ways and Means chairman Kevin Brady seems unfazed by the challenge. ''It's like tax reform,'' says Brady, Republican of Texas, explaining that many pieces will be pulled together. ''Unlike Obamacare, which ripped up the individual market, this will be done deliberately, in an appropriate timetable.''
Republicans say they will move quickly to repeal the ACA, while suspending the effective date to allow them to craft a replacement.
Many Republicans may quietly be in the contingent that wants to revise the law, but fear being accused of promoting ''Obamacare-lite.''
They'd strip out some of the ACA's taxes and requirements. The unpopular ''individual mandate'' to carry health insurance or risk fines could be replaced with other persuasion short of a government dictate. Rules on insurers would be loosened.
But popular provisions such as protecting those with preexisting health conditions would be retained in some form, as well as financial assistance for low- and moderate-income people.
Many GOP allies in the business community favor revising the ACA. That includes major players among hospitals, insurers, and pharmaceutical companies.
Trump may have given this group some cover by saying that he wants to keep parts of the law, but his bottom line remains unknown.
For budget hawks, unwinding the Obama health law is a beginning. Next they could move on to much bigger objectives like restructuring Medicaid and Medicare, and placing a cost-conscious limit on tax breaks for employer coverage.
Budget hawks see health care as the main driver of government deficits, and they are loath to address that imbalance by raising taxes. Instead they want to rewrite the social compact so individuals accept more responsibility and risk for their health care.
The problem for budget hawks is that the 2016 political campaign did not give them a mandate. Issues like Medicare and Medicaid were scarcely discussed. Trump said he wouldn't cut Medicare, and sent conflicting signals on Medicaid.
Many Democrats can't wait for Republicans to follow the call of the budget hawks. Betting that will backfire, House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi is rallying her lawmakers against ''attacks on the ACA and Medicare.''
The most conservative lawmakers want to ''pull Obama-care up by the roots as if it never existed,'' says Republican political consultant Frank Luntz. That sentiment is embodied by the 40 or so members of the House Freedom Caucus, and it's probably broadly shared among conservatives.
Some do not believe the government should be involved in health care, and they couldn't care less about replacing the ACA. GOP leaders may need these lawmakers to advance on replacement legislation; coaxing them to a middle ground might not be possible.
''They would say that Obama's plan has failed,'' said Luntz.