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It has been a while (again) since my last review but I found another amazing artist from Iceland that I had to share. Asonat (duo of Fannar Ásgrímsson and Jónas Thór Guðmundsson, vocals by Oléna Simon) recently released their sophomore effort on N5MD Records on September 30th and it is entitled "Connection." It may be my favorite album of 2014 as it offers such a wide range of beautiful sounds. You will hear some great pop-sounding tracks, some experimental sounds, a hint of post-rock, as well as some classic trip hop sounds as you progress through a listening session of "Connection."
The album name is a a reference to the fact that the three artists were all living in different locations while putting the album together so the final result is this outstanding collaboration or "connection." The work as a whole connects together very well too, making it a nice theme for the project. The lyrics also speak about missed connections so it all comes together to make a nice quasi-concept album.
Compared to what I heard on their debut album "Love in Times of Repetition" which seemed a little more mellow and more synth chord driven, "Connection" is comprised of more layers and complex trip hop beats which make for a nice overall groove while listening.
You can hear some classic synth sounds on "Before It Was" which is was the first straightforward chill track that I noticed. What was really cool about "Connection" was when I noticed that it has a "connected" or "sister" track, if you will, called "Rejection" which shares a similar melody. I didn't notice it until skipping around for highlights to write up this review.
"Rather Interesting" (which had its own EP release earlier this year) lives up to its title and sounds like it was created in that similar synth-pop vein. Its pulsating beat and Oléna Simon's unique vocal sound (where she inserts what it seems to be almost chanting towards the end) made me think it would be a great fit for end credits music for a film. "Interesting" It also reminded me of Massive Attack's "Hymn of the Big Wheel" that I first heard on "Ultra Chilled 01" when I was first getting into downtempo/chill music. What a great song!
A couple of other tracks that stood out is the offbeat opener "Quiet Storm" and retro/R&B flavored "Everything Illuminated." It still has that warm synth sound but is infused with a soulful 70's funk tinge to it. "One Step at a Time" is track with a deep, driving bass beat with synth arpeggios running throughout.
It has started to get very cold here in the Midwest, so this is a great album for putting on repeat and immersing yourself in on a cold night and letting these awesome sounds wash over you again and again. Highly recommend!
Keep chillin'


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About Alain Milliat
Everything started in 1993 in the Lyon region with a concept: "developing juices and nectars displaying the true characteristics of fresh fruits." In 1997, a 32 year-old farmer's son, Alain Milliat, created six products with the fruits of his farm.
He presented his collection to Relais & Châteaux sommeliers, who were very enthusiastic about these high-quality products and encouraged him to continue his business.
Today, about fifty references of juices, nectars and jams have been created, always in the same spirit and with the same expertise. Each year, Alain Milliat's discoveries lead him to launch new products, and this is not likely to stop …

subset: commoncrawl


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This post was most recently updated on May 7th, 2018
Everyone is looking for a change in life. Some they stand for the change, while others want somebody else to stand up for them, to bring the change into their lives.
The point is, if I wish to change the life around me, is it possible for me, or it's just the probability of life?
The answer is, every individual holds the power to bring the change around him. It's all about the intensity you carry with your efforts. Life remains standstill if you don't stand up for yourselves, or what you believe in with your life.
It's not some superpower, that brings the change in your life, but you have to work your way out, be it your personal, professional or spiritual life.
"Life is open for all, and the one who asks the right question, is surely guided in the right direction."
How to Practice Self Inquiry
We all are made up of five elements. Air, fire, earth, space, and water. The most intense and powerful element is fire. Fire is energy. All the other elements of life come out of energy. Energy is the source of all the other elements of life.
Life is possible because of energy. If you can arouse the fire in you, you can change any part of your life. To bring the change with life is to change the lower energy into higher one.
The life around you changes, when you transcend yourself from inside. We all are made up of same elements and the time we release the positive energy and vibrations in the environment, we attract the similar energy into our environment.
Wherever you are placed right now, your environment carries certain energy. This energy comes out of the energy released by every individual in that circle, through his thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Every city, state or country carries the energy of its people. People into the city, state or country have the power to change the life around them for the good. It's not about the city, state or country, but it's all about the energy of the people.
ALSO READ: Your Energy attracts the similar energy to you
If you begin to radiate positive energy and vibrations around you, slowly you attract the similar energy from the people around you, and the things begin to change around you. You may not think of the city, state or country, but certainly, you can stand up, for your surroundings.
We all have some part in our personal or professional life, that needs a change, and we wait for the life to happen on its own. These may sound harsh, but if your personal life, professional life or say spiritual life is not where you expect it to be then there is nobody else to blame for, but it's you.
ALSO READ: Lift Yourself-Up, to Lift the World (BUDDHA)
Sometimes there are situations, or events in our life, of which we are part of, along with many others and we feel that because of others, we are let down, or thrown back with our life, but these are not true, when you look at life, from the perspective of life itself.
Life has given absolute control to each individual that not only he can transform and transcend his life, with his inner energy and power but he can also uplift the life of people around him.
It's not about how many agree or disagree what you think or feel, but it's all about the right energy. If you can radiate the higher energy, all the negative and positive minds, along with all the negative and positive feelings and emotions, begin to resonate with your energy.
You don't have to wait for others to change before you bring the necessary change within your environment, but you simply have to change yourself from within, and all types of life around you, will begin to respond.
Either you get pull down by the lower energy level of your environment and people around you, or lift them up, by spreading positive energy and vibrations towards everyone in your circle.
The Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy
Be it the personal or professional life, any shift you wish to bring with it solely depends on you. If you are clear with what you want out of life, nothing can push you around, but if you can put your mind, straight to, what you are looking with life, you can bring the necessary change with it, and you can have the desired success.
The change with life happens first within you and then you work on it, to bring it into life. You have to be absolutely clear inside, what you are looking with life. Once you are clear inside, you can direct all your energy for its manifestation, in the outside world.
Everything with life is law of relativity. You attract what you release, in the form of energy and vibrations. You have to figure out the way, how you can raise and sustain your inner energy level.
ALSO READ: The World will not Change for you, Will you still Choose to Walk?
Life is what you believe. You have to believe yourself, before you expect the life around you, to get into your belief. You have to stand alone for the change, with all the might and everything around you will respond with time.
All the situation, people, and environment begin to respond if you stay with it. If you stand up, for life, everything is possible for you, but if somebody who gives up with life, its nobody else but you.
Every individual carries the part of god in him, and thus holds the power to change anything he desires on earth.
What is change?
The change means to take life, in the direction where it gets better for everyone. You want life to be on a higher side. You want life to be better. If you want something, and if you can hold yourself with it, life responds to your desire. The only thing is, you have to stay with it, till the end.
You have to prepare yourself to stand in the odd times. With life, things are possible, when you stay little longer. Future is not pre-written, and what already exists around you, comes from the past action. If you can put your mind, heart, and body for the change, you certainly can turn it, into your reality.
ALSO READ: Small Daily Changes can take your Life to Another Level
You cannot bring change by repeating the same process of life. It requires a different approach to create something new into your life. You have to be open for experimenting with your life.
You have to be creative. Only then, life shows up, the way you want, or else you always have your old path, that will simply rotate you in the circle, and leads you nowhere.
Life comes alive with the change. When you believe in something and make it alive, you open the path for many. No change is small or big, but the idea to make the things better, even on a small scale, makes a huge difference too many lives.
There is only one thing that brings the change with life, and that is the fire that you hold inside. You have to unlock your energy and vibrate your positive energy to an extent, whereby, everything around you, begin to vibrate at the same frequency.
The energy that you hold inside is like a storm, which can wash off, all the old things, and create a new reality for you. This is the idea of Jesus about heaven. There is no other heaven, then what you create here for yourself. You can choose to be in heaven or you can create your own hell. It all depends on you.


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Unplug yourself from this world!
As I re-read the word Abba gave to me this evening I feel the urgency to say this:
Many call themselves Christians! But we must follow His ways not words but deeds! How can He protect you when you do not listen to His voice, and do not walk in His ways?
Read what He gave me:
"My children, it is not about you, but about My Kingdom! Seek first My Kingdom (My Father's heart) and all the rest will come!
Instead of asking many things of Me, I have something I want of you!
Unplug yourself from this world and its system!
Leave Babylon; turn back to the ancient paths where you will find rest for your souls!
Read My entire Word, do not change My scriptures! Allow Me to purify and cleanse you; follow My ways and not the ways of the world!
It is time My children to see what I am about to do! Lay down your lives, your plans and your ambitions; and as soon as the flesh is burned away, I AM can dwell through you with My spirit! Then My plan for you can unfold itself! You can rest and be assured – all that I want to happen, will happen!
Yes, I will perform miracles. Blind eyes will see, deaf ears will hear, deliverance will come, but I want a Bride without blemish spot or wrinkle! I AM is your King, not your slave! Do not command Me but follow My commands! Honor Me, not only with your lips, but honor Me with your deeds of obedience!" your Father!
Blessings and Shalom over you!
~ Mamme Devorah
Called by Yeshua by the will of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
"Adversity is the spark that lights the matches, to glow the fire of self-confidence," Catharina Schouten.
Catharina Schouten–Meijer (Mamme Devorah) is the founder of Dezerto Floro Foundation – Desert Flower. Blossoming despite hardship! She encourages, inspires, teaches, and is training and equipping people. She goes wherever the Father is sending her! She is sent in the Biblical way. In 1995 the Holy Spirit set her apart, for the work to which He has called her. Pastor Hendrik – Jan van Mourik – Restoration Church – in the Netherlands, sent her in the apostolic and prophetic ministry in 2006. Rev. Paul van Beek God's Outreach Ministry Int. sent her in the Deborah call in 2011. Ministry mandate: Isaiah 45 Deliverance, Rebuilding, Restoration.


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Publicis Groupe's Maurice Levy said last year that he wanted 30 per cent of the company's revenues to come from China and emerging markets and he's obviously decided that PR is a good way forward, buying 400-strong Genedigi, which PG claims will make it the biggest PR group in China.
Last year PG bought 120-strong PR firm Eastwei Relations, founded by Swede Johan Bjorksten.
Genedigi has offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.
The announcement is timely as Levy, along with other mavens of the marcoms world, is attending the Cannes Advertising Festival of Creativity this week and the Grand Prix for PR is due to be announced tonight (the Cannes website said tomorrow.
What's the betting that deadly rival Sir Martin Sorrell of WPP will announce at least one small acquisition this week?


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Oliva is a repeat customer 😉 I took her One year photos, and it's SO hard to believe that it was just about time for her 2 year photos!
I have to tell you, I was so excited to see what outfits Mom brought, because this momma knows how to accessorize! Olivia always shows up with necklaces, bracelets, the cutest shoes and leggings ever!
Once we got to the beach, she wanted to dig for shells…haha, and that's what she did 🙂 She also wanted to go in the water, but…um…yeah, that water isn't too clean, so Dad had to keep blocking her! LOL.
She did so great, and mom delievered again on the cutest little bathing suit, and gladiator shoes! Can't wait for our fall family session with them!
Thanks Rhonda! See you in October!
I wish you could see her shoes better in this photo, so adorable!


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[November 13th 2012]
First published in Civil and Military Gazette, May 9th, 1887 under the title "The D.C.'s Story".
Collected in:
Background to the poem
F. A. Underwood (KJ 188 for Dec 1973, p. 10) notes that "Municipal" illustrates the major linguistic changes Kipling made for this collected edition, omitting Anglo-Indian expressions. Originally, he notes, the poem began:
'It was an August evening and, in snowy garments clad,[F.A Underwood, 'The Expansion of Departmental Ditties', KJ 188]
Kipling was strongly interested in issues of hygiene and health in Indian towns and cities, and the tendency of municipal authorities to ignore them. See City of Dreadful Night, eight articles published in The Pioneer in March/April 1888, based on Kipling's visit to Calcutta that year. See also "My Lord the Elephant" in Many Inventions for a similar incident.
The lines refer to the whole poem, heading lines included.
[Title] Municipal The word simply means 'relating to a town or its government'. The poem describes a seemingly trivial episode, to do with drains. However, as Kipling well knew from his journalistic work in the streets and alleyways of Indian towns, sewage disposal could loom large as a municipal issue.
As noted above, the poem was originally entitled "The D.C.'s Story." We may therefore guess that that (Line 2) 'Binks' was the District Commissioner, and that 'Hezabad' was the seat of his jurisdiction. [A.W.]
[Line 4] fad A fashion or craze. As in "A Legend of the Foreign Office" Kipling evokes images related to drains and sewage-outfalls which seem to work as an autobiographical hint, as they were lifelong interests in his own career:
"Drains are a great and glorious thing and I study 'em and write about 'em when I can ... one decent primer on Sanitary Engineering and sewage disposal is worth more than all the tomes of sacred smut ever produced" [ "To W. C. Crofts, 18-27 February 1886" in Thomas Pinney (Ed.), The Letters of Rudyard Kipling. Volume I, pp. 121-122.] See also Gillian Sheehan's article on Sanitation in this guide.[Line 5] I learnt a lesson once Kipling uses this expression to introduce the lines that follow, which narrate the episode of the elephant-hunted Binks, who is defined a "most veracious man" in the next line. This is one of the examples in which introductory lines of verse are directly linked to the subsequent text and act as a pilot-entry to it; other examples of this technique so far in the collection have been, in particular, "Study of an Elevation, in Indian Ink", "A Legend of the Foreign Office", "Public Waste", and "Delilah".
[Line 6] quoth This simply means 'said' or 'declared'. This form is the first and third person singular past tense form of an Old English verb, cwethan, meaning 'speak', or 'say'. The rest of the verb has long been obsolete, but the archaism 'quoth' was used fairly frequently in Victorian verse for humorous or stately effect. This emphatic terminology may thus be hinting at Binks's wisdom: Kipling not only reports his story but seems to present it as a sort of parable, suggesting that good may come from accidental causes, or - perhaps - that the British in India did not always know what would be the results of their actions.
[Line 8] the lines of Hezabad the roads. The European quarters were usually grafted on to the old Indian cities and towns, and were laid out in straight lines. [A,W.]
[Line 9] Waler A light saddle horse of mixed breed developed in Australia and exported widely to British India during the 19th century. They originated in New South Wales – hence 'Waler'.
[Line 10] the Mall the main avenue, named after the Mall in London, the wide avenue leading to Buckingham Palace. In its present form, it dates from the start of the 20th century, but there had been an avenue, and later a road there since the building of Buckingham House in the 17th century.
There was a Mall in many British settlements in India - in Simla, for instance. See also l;ine 2 of the penultimate verse of 'The Ballad of Boh Da Thone":
"She's always about on the Mall of a mornin'-"[Line 12] That Commissariat elephant had suddenly gone musth Mad. Musth is a state of excitement to which elephants are periodically liable. Their keepers understand and provide for it. Mere bad temper is quite different. In "My Lord the Elephant" (Many Inventions) a mahout says that when a elephant is angry he will kill any one except his keeper, but when he is musth he will kill his keeper first.
In the same story, told by Mulvaney, an elephant loses his temper, creates a panic, and chases an officer, who - in an echo of this poem - takes refuge in a drain:
"a gunner orf'cer in full rig'mentals down the road, hell-for-leather, wid his mouth open' till the officer 'dived like a rabbut into a dhrain by the side av the road."[Line 15] buggy A light one-horse carriage.
praise Dykes presumably the coachbuilder who made the buggy. [A.W.]
[Lines 18-22] the creature making toothpicks of my five-foot patent wheels; he snorted in my ear: the brute's proboscis; heard it trumpet on my shoulder.... The description of the elephant seems intentionally hyperbolic, not only to indicate its massive weight – realistically oversized if compared to Binks's – and beastly outlook and frenzy, but also to increase the comic effect of the description of the chase.
[Line 2] fingering Touching with the fingers.
[Lines 22 and 27] my terror-stiffened hair... my hair was turning grey Kipling sustains his reference to 'hair' to depict Binks's fearful reaction: these lines give an almost pictorial, hyperbolic description of his state of anxiety, as found in illustrations and cartoons of the time.
[Line 23] trumpet The brassy resounding call of the elephant.
[Line 26] feeling blindly for a purchase The elephant was doing all it could to grip his vicitim by the toes and haul him out.
[Line 31] hold with 'Believe in', or "agree with'.
[Line 32] periwinkle a small blue garden flower, which tends to spread like a weed [A.W.]
[Line 34] This is why the death-rate's small As John McGivering points out in the Kipling Jopurnal, this line gives the impression that the protagonist:
...made the City Elders flush their drains so that he would have a better chance if he were chased up one by an elephant again!, and not for sanitary reasons. ['Kipling's Army and Navy' KJ 191 September 1974: p. 4)Drains, sewage and public health were of major concern to Victorians wherever they were. So 'Binks of Hezabad' was bound to try to improve the drainage of that city. 'Surface drainage' – open ditches – could be, and often was, blocked by litter, large and small. So Binks believed in 'well-flushed culverts' (covered drains). Quite apart from the health aspects of good drainage, there was also a matter of coping with monsoon conditions – a freely-running system of drains was essential. [A.W.]
[Line 35] shikarred Hunted
©Roberta Baldi 2023 All rights reserved


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Since mankind uttered its first words, we have been developing ways to communicate. Fire beacons and smoke signals have evolved to string and soup cans. Now we use VOIP and smart phones to talk to anyone at any time..
As technologies developed we used the telegraph and telephones – now communication is happening over the internet. Look at the quantum leap since 1861 when the first transcontinental communication line was completed.
Telephones/Land Lines have died.
From 10% in 2006 to over 50% in 2016, land lines have all but died. In the chart below – 2016 shows over 50% of adults using no land line and the number jumps to 60% for children.
We now send and receive data, voice and video instantly over the internet. VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) systems are replace standard lines and mobile phones use VOIP. At the end of 2016 95% of Americans had a cellphone and smart phones account for 77% of that. (Pew Research study)
But how will we communicate in the future
Look at the past and present and we can see where communication is evolving. From telephones connected to our homes to cell phones and then smart phone apps. The evolution of apps is just as quick – with phone calls moved to SMS and phones calls are replaced with Facebook messenger, Twitter, Snapchap and Apple's Facetime.Each generation looks for new – more picture/video entangled options.
Each generation of technology gets closer to real-time communication.
How does Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Play in?
Virtual and augmented reality (more explanation of what VR and AR is at the end of this post) is something that technologists have been working on. Used for military planes to help pilots get more data in a fluid way. The technology now creeps into manufacturing companies – helping humans be more efficient.
Business push for VR – it reduces the necessity of travel. Members gather in a virtual conference room instead of wait in lines at the airport. The brain's perception is the same.
AR lets us have additional information connected in real time to add value to the current situation. Imagine scanning the room for an old friend and augmented reality pointing a virtual green arrow at them over their head via your AR enables contact lenses or glasses.
Having AR & VR tools embedded into our lives is a huge shift in how we perceive who we are and where we go. The brain acts very similarly if it "sees" VR or if it is having a "real" experience. VR is used to help paraplegics walk again – and the results are amazing. With VR the brain can see the body working and using a robotic exoskeleton to move the body. Good things are happening and "some patients started to regain some sensation and some muscle movement on their own", this is so amazing…read more at ABC.
What's next?
You have to wonder what will be next – how will we communicate in the future? A fantastic book called Autonomous, where Analee Newitz paints an incredible future where people, hybrids and robots communicate in fascinating ways – verbally, via private instant massages as well as skin like feedback clothing. What we use to communicate in the future is literally up to our imagination. I want to experience these new ways – how about you?


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What Makes a Man is part of a series of short films known as Snippets.
These Snippets are intended to be used when delivering community engagement/education workshops.
This one is about when a young woman receives a phone call from her boyfriend only to hear she has been dumped. She resolves to make the perfect man but, when she gives her heart to her creation, she is rejected again.
Facilitators can use the questions listed below to encourage young people to express their opinions — even though a description has been provided above there is not necessarily a correct answer!
Using your own words, describe what you saw happen in the film.
Using your own words, describe what you saw happen in the film.
Is there such a thing as a perfect man or woman?
Is it possible to live up to the expectations of being perfect?
How can you build a successful relationship?


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Oakland-based Cedar Cycling produces minimalist, made-in-the-U.S., wool cycling jerseys. But maximum effort went into its newest offering: a women's jersey designed by women and produced by a woman-owned factory in the Bay Area (triple-play!) Starting with a "summit" that brought together a dozen local female cyclists to discuss material, comfort and performance needs, the company refined and field-tested the garment, even enlisting Barb Howe, former U.S. National Champion Cyclocross racer. The resulting red top, made with a blend of Merino wool and nylon, offers a tailored fit, full zipper, gripper elastic along the interior of the hem and sensible touches like bar tacking to reinforce the rear pockets at stress points. With a combination of performance fabric and simple, feminine styling, it's a versatile addition to a cycling wardrobe whether you're a road warrior or just out to enjoy the scenery.
Cedar Cycling Women's Standard Cycling Jersey, $160
Photos: Cedar Cycling


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for Allergies
Founder Gary Graig
Gary Graig, Founder of EFT
Emotional Freedom Techniques
EFT has been very successful in eliminating and resolving allergies. Carefully applied it can not only eliminate the allergy but also the trauma and fear of the body's reaction to the allergen."
The presence of an allergen or toxin can interfere with the body's energy system. When we speak of allergies, we usually think of rashes. However, an energy allergen or toxin may only affect the body's energy system. For this reason, we are often unaware of it's presence.
If you already know what you're allergic you can get very specific with EFT. If you don't already know, then it may worth getting an allergy testing done.
and how to address them.
Robert Smith Faster EFT
Hay Fever Allergies & Congestion!
David Childerley
Copyright © 2004-2016 Allergy Link
You are viewing the text version of this site.
Need help? check the requirements page.


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Generate Unlimited Fully-Rigged Custom 3D characters for games.
Animate in iClone and deploy game characters for Unity, Unreal and Autodesk Stingray.
Reallusion launches iClone Character Creator. iClone users can now create realistic looking, animation ready 3D human models with this free add-on tool for version 6.2 Pro and above. Unique characters can be created through the use of shape morphs, customizable high resolution skin textures, and outfits with clothing containing your own fabric designs.
iClone 6 Pro is an incredibly powerful, yet easy to use real-time 3D animation software that allows you to put together a visually stunning 3D animation scene in minutes. Imagine having your creative animation ideas come to life right in front of you instantly without the wait! Professionals and beginners can take advantage of tons of pre-made content and smart interactivity between actors, vehicles and props.
Prepare characters for game engines like Unity, Unreal and Stingray or use in 3ds Max or Maya with direct FBX export via the iClone Animation Pipeline. Animate game character motion in iClone and export via the iClone Animation Pipeline's 3DXchange.
Main Features Character Creator:
Quick Start Pre-sets and easy to use interface
Drag-and-drop presets, in well-organized categories are available for you to generate various character styles in no time at all. You can also can manually do further modifications with the use of sliders to create characters with more sophisticated details. The intuitive dockable user interface design brings you the most flexible editing environment.
Free Style Shaping
Morphable Muscle Shape & Bone Scales. The brand new, authentic one-mesh CC Characters are designed for versatile body morphs. Besides applying basic figure shapes from the preset library you may also further adjust the body, or individual parts such as: Head, Torso, Chest, Waist, Arm, Hand, Leg and Foot.
Morphable Face Creation & Editing. To easily create unlimited authentic human faces, you can either directly apply any of the presets for quick prototypes, or you can further refine the appearance through highly detailed facial sliders, grouped into intuitive segments such as: Skull, Forehead, Eye/Eyelash, Brow, Ear, Nose, Cheek, Jaw, Teeth and Mouth.
Adjustable skin Properties
Freely apply different texture patterns to your own masked area. Blend colour variations and skin pores and wrinkles to generate the right skin for characters with various ages, genders and ethnicities.
Aging System. The full body Aging Morphs and Skin Normals options, give you the power to easily transform your characters into elderly ones. This can be applied to different genders and body shapes. Gracefully age your characters' look or go all out and instantly turn them into seniors by adjusting the slider control.
Sun Tan & Tattoo. Import decals (tattoos) and move or resize them on top of the skin as you like. You can also use a mask layer (suntan) combined with the sun tan sliders to simulate natural summer tan lines, a sporty-beach look, or sunburn effects.
Cosmetic Design
Character Creator has integrated a complete make-up system based on professional cosmetic theories. Design the best brows for your character's face shape with eyeliners that fit her/his eyes. Apply eye shadows or add a shimmery eye effect to create luminizing eyelids. Add blush to enhance contour, or change lipstick colors and specularity to create a lubricated appearance. Additionally, you may manually define the area of any make-up to apply true-to-life finishes.
Dynamic Clothes Design
Easily get your character dressed in full outfits by layer-applying the underwear, upper clothes, lower pants/skirts and outer garments. The best part is that the same clothes can be conformed to different body shapes, and you may further refine the result using the conforming tool.
Colour, Segment, Pattern. Use an RGB mask to define preferred cloth or shoes segments. Make your own unique outfit designs by changing each segment's colour, pattern or fabric. Freely apply a worn-out effect or add dirt and dust or add torn patterns to give jeans a variety authentic styles.
Patch & Logo. Import your own decals made with diffuse, specular and normal maps. Then imprint these logos over fabrics or paste, weave and stitch patches and plastic stickers anywhere you wish.
Content Expansion
The Character Creator (CC) Essentials packs expand the 3D character design capabilities with more morphs, aging, skin and cosmetic kits. Character clothing and fabric design assets and tools add dynamic texture layers for stylizing the wardrobe.
View content packs: Essential Morphs & Skin | Essential Clothing and Fabric
Characters for Games
Character Creator models are animated in iClone and readied for the game engine of choice though the iClone Animation Pipeline. Once a 3D character is created and animated it's sent to 3DXchange and exported for Unity, Unreal or Stingray via optimized FBX. iClone Animation Pipeline: http://www.reallusion.com/iclone/default.aspx
Character Creator web http://www.reallusion.com/iclone/character-creator/default.html
iClone 6 is now available at the Reallusion Online Store in 2 versions for Windows PC.


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What you eat
eventually is
what you wear
Denver & Westminster Medical Weight Loss Clinic
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The second a client walks into our office, they will be greeted by warm, welcoming staff who always have a smile on their faces. We provide personal service to every client by sitting down with them and discussing their weight loss goal, eating habits, and overall lifestyle. Our team acts as a client's nutritional coach, cheerleader, and biggest weight loss advocate. If you wish to lose weight, increase your metabolism, boost your energy levels, or improve your health, we can help. Call us today at
877-332-5715 to learn more.
Lose weight in Broomfield, Arvada & Thornton, Colorado
Unlike other clinics who view clients as their next paycheck, we take the time to get to know our clients and create personalized weight loss programs that will help them reach their ideal weight. We do not prescribe medications and/or injections and send clients on their way. Instead, our health experts teach clients how to transition into a healthy lifestyle, and change their eating habits, weight, and perspective on life. We know how frustrating it can be to experience diet after diet with little to no results. Our team is also aware of how discouraging it can be to diet for years, and then gain weight the minute the diet stops. This is why we make it our goal to help clients reach their weight loss goals and maintain their ideal weight.
Change Your Life for the Better
Our medical weight loss clinic helps people safely lose weight and achieve optimal health. We offer many weight loss and health programs, including the following:
Medical Weight Loss
B-12 Lipotrpic Injections
Purification / Detoxification Programs
Nutritional Supplements
Million Dollar Professional Spray Tan
We also offer free consultations for those who wish to discover how we may be able to help them lose and keep off unwanted weight. Do not attempt any fad diets or weight loss programs-contact La Bella Vita and let us help you create the body you have always wanted and the lifestyle you need to maintain it
If you are interested in any of these services, please call or schedule an appointment online so we can help you.
Monday and Wednesday 8am-6pm
Tuesday 12pm-7pm
Thursday CLOSED
Friday 8am-2pm


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Are You Sure About Azur?
As you age, things start to sag. And, it's almost impossible to defy gravity, genetics, and other external factors. Really, sometimes a few fine lines can be okay. But, do you really want to approach your day feeling self-conscious about your face? Not many woman are comfortable having wrinkles. Products like Azur Derma Cream might be able to help you tackle your day with more confidence. Because, it's a skin care product like many others that contains Retinol. And, if you don't know why Azur Derma Cream would use Retinol, we cover it in this review. However, just know that there are other products that contain this ingredient – and others! – to help beautify your skin. And, we can guarantee that some of them are extremely popular. So, don't become complacent. Check out one other product, today, too, by clicking on any image on our page!
And, once you've clicked on these images, you'll be taken away from this review of Azur Derma Cream. Truthfully, we're not offended about that. Because, our job as reviewers is to provide you with the best products. So, you should do us a favor and try the products we tell you to try. If, at any time during this review of Azur Derma Cream, you want to see another product, just head over to our page images. Once you click, a new product will appear!
Azur Derma Cream Price
So, we did some snooping, but we came up short. Today, we couldn't find the price of this product from our usual source. But, if you want to learn more about the Azur Derma Cream Price, search for it on your favorite online shopping platform! But, the prices for products sometimes vary on these platforms depending on what's trending now. To get more honest pricing out of a product, you can visit the links under our product images to see another product like Azur Derma Cream. It's not the same product, but it's one that is a bit more popular in online skin care circles right now. And, the good news is, all the pricing info is there on the page – no searching required.
Basics About Azur Derma Face Cream
- 16 Oz Per Bottle
- Only Available Online
- Azur Derma Cream Contains Retinol
- May Come In Multiple Sizes
- Accepts Major US Credit Cards
Azur Derma Cream Ingredients Info
At this time, we were only able to identify one ingredient in this product. But, it's a common ingredient that most skin care products use. If you want to know what it is, it's retinol. And, why do so many skin care products like Azur Derma Cream use retinol? Well, here's a list of reasons:
- Retinol is derived from Vitamin A, an antioxidant
- It may approve the appearance of sun damage, fine lines, and scarring
- You can use it every day
- Also, you can use it with other acne medications
- It might help to slow aging
Remember, however, that most anti-aging creams like Azur Derma Cream use other ingredients than Retinol, as well. So, you should search for other creams that use ingredients like Peptides and Vitamin C. And, does this sound like something you want to do right now? Then visit our buttons and banners to check out another product with more ingredients.
Using Azur Derma Anti Aging Cream
With Retinol, things can get a little tricky. Really, Retinol isn't for everyone's skin. Some people may have reactions to it. So, don't use too much of a cream like Azur Derma Cream when you first start. Really, you can just use a tiny bit to see how your skin will react. Also, some people may become more sensitive to sunlight while using a cream like Azur Derma Cream with Retinol. So, make sure to use sunscreen while using products like this. And, always make sure to research other options before committing to one cream. That way, you can know you're getting the best for your skin.
Want To Order Azur Derma Retinol Cream?
So, now that you've researched this one product, what do you think? Do you think it is going to be your solution to fine lines and wrinkles? Do you think it will give you the skin you want? If you're hesitating, maybe sometime about Azur Derma Cream doesn't feel right. And, that's okay. You don't have to fall in love with the first product you see. But, remember, there are more fish floating out there. And, we recommend that you try one so that you don't settle for Azur Derma Cream as your first fish. So, send your fishing pole up to our page images. And, click where it says "Click Here." Once you've clicked, you'll go to the product website for another anti-aging cream that might be your catch of the day.
Incoming Azur Derma Cream search terms:
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The Discipline of Listening
Our brains make it difficult, if not impossible, to fully or accurately comprehend what our Communication Partners wish to convey. We hear their words, of course, but we often end up interpreting them well outside the intent of the Speaker. I spent 3 years researching and writing on this topic for a book, (What?) and came away in awe of the magnitude of this issue and how deeply our unconscious choices prejudice our conversations.
As a coach to coaches, sellers, and managers, I'm painfully aware of how sellers often listen only to 'recognize a need', or coaches listen for a problem they've had success resolving before, or managers listen for a difficulty they know how to regulate.
By listening for something specific, we end up taking away a myth as meaning. With mischaracterized and potentially inaccurate data (compounded over the length of the conversation), we then have no accurate data with which to base follow-on decisions, not to mention that everyone potentially walks away from the conversation with mistaken beliefs, feelings, and expectations. And then we blame the Other for any failure. Sadly, because our brains don't tell us they have misunderstood or biased what was meant (we actually believe we've 'heard' accurately), we're rarely aware that we have missed the meaning or the possibility, until it's too late.
Here are some tips to create a discipline to help minimize any biases and assumptions that ambush your understanding of what others are saying:
- Prepare and De-stress. Before each conversation, clear your mind of any expectations or hopes, or feelings from past conversations. Otherwise your brain will unconsciously seek confirmation (Confirmation Bias) for that very thing while ignoring or misconstruing possibilities (minimizing your chances of success or creativity).
- Humility and humor. Unless you have written a script that everyone speaking has signed off on, you have no way of knowing what your Communication Partner will say, mean, need, or feel. I often hear people attempt to push their own agenda and don't recognize what the Other has conveyed. Since there is no such thing as win/lose, this tends to create lose/lose, although the offended Communication Partner might not mention it during the conversation.
- Flexibility. All conversations demand flexibility to be present to the messages within the dialogue that actually occurs. The larger the bias or expectation going in, the harder it is to achieve, the greater the gap in understanding and expectation, and the greater the fallout from unrealized possibility.
- Trust. I know it's hard to walk away without getting exactly what you want, or to hear things that don't match your needs or expectations, but somewhere in the conversation there is a creative win for everyone. It may not look or act like your dream, but it will be something that everyone can accept. Besides, if you're not trusting the dialogue actually occurring, you're merely pushing your own agenda. And then you can't even trust the outcome you've devised.
Unless both sides of a conversation fully understand what the Other intends to convey, there is no reality to work with and everyone risks unnecessary failure or limited possibility: it might have been possible to achieve success in a different way, or maintain a relationship over time for future possibilities. In almost every in-person coaching session I have had, my client has missed real possibilities (even of getting exactly what they want) in pursuit of hearing what they believe they should hear.
Here are some questions to think about as you consider adding some discipline to your listening skills:
- How adept are you at entering conversations with no needs, no expectations, no biases?
- How capable are you of showing up in a conversation with the ability to have a We Space – not two "I's" which lead nowhere except self-serving exchanges, but a genuine melding of the people involved to find the win for all?
- What do you need to believe differently to recognize that when you enter conversations with personal biases, assumptions, and triggers, that you will only succeed those times when the Other has the exact same biases, assumptions, and triggers – and all those who could truly benefit from your expertise and heart will not be able to hear you either (regardless of how well-meaning or accurate you are)?
- How willing are you to learn to show up with an open mind, recognize when you have biases or expectations and quiet them before starting the exchange?
- How can you react to something you're not prepared for in a way that encourages collaborative dialogue?
You can continue doing what you've been doing, of course. But for those times you seek excellence in your conversations, a bit of preparation is in order.
Sharon Drew Morgen is the author most recently of What? Did you really say what I think I heard?, as well as self-learning tools and an on-line team learning program – designed to both assess listening impediments and encourage the appropriate skills to accurately hear what others convey.
Sharon Drew is also the author of the NYTimes Business Bestseller 'Selling with Integrity' and 7 other books on how decisions get made, how change happens in systems, and how buyers buy. She is the developer of Buying Facilitation® a facilitation tool for sellers, coaches, and managers to help Others determine their best decisions and enable excellence. Her award winning blog sharondrewmorgen.com has 1500 articles that help sellers help buyers buy.
Sharon Drew can be reached at sharondrew@sharondrewmorgen.


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Aaron Crews
I'm a control systems engineer, a husband, and a dad to twin boys primarily.
I'm really interested in applying design principles to business processes and in trying to make work better and more fun.
I spend my spare time drawing, taking pictures, messing around with computers, following Texas A&M sports, and doing projects with my wife.


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When I think of our relationship with Consortio, I think of their following attributes: Flexible, Consultative & Professional.
Consortio's approach is highly engaging. They work with strong support to effectively manage risk for both their customers and their contractors. They are engaging and informative in sharing industry best practice intel and legislative insights. They are responsive and work to a 'values set' that punches above its weight in their sector. Nothing is ever too much trouble for the team at Consortio and we look forward to our working closely with them for a long time to come.
Consortio have been a breath of fresh air for us! We are delighted with our decision to move to Consortio. Their service to our contractors is excellent, as well as their commitment to our business processes. The entire Consortio team have been accommodating of our unique requirements. We experienced a very smooth transition from our previous provider. Consortio managed the whole process, communicated with our contractors and were always available to answer our questions. They are a friendly, reliable and knowledgeable team and the level of communication has been excellent. Real pleasure to work with. Would absolutely recommend Consortio.
Consortio have consistently provided outstanding contractor management services across the entire resourcing lifecycle. The team can be relied on to provide effective and speedy solutions to contractor management, enabling the delivery of urgent, short and long term project and resourcing requirements. Consortio's steadfast, reassuring and professional approach to processing and management has been a pleasure to work with.
Our organisation prides itself on providing outstanding customer service to both our clients and contractors. A key part of achieving this is being able to provide our contractors with a reliable and quality contractor management/payroll solution. Five years ago we were working with a number of contractor management companies and were not receiving the level of service that we needed. Today we only have one that we consider a true partner to our business and that is Consortio. Through ease of business and excellent customer service, we believe that Consortio not only adds value to the services that we provide, we know we can rely on them 100% of the time.
Starting off as a new business, there were certainly many challenges with growing a contracting base. We didn't have the time or manpower to invoice clients and payroll contractors; our main focus and priority was doing what we do best – recruiting. This is why partnering with Consortio was the best possible solution for us. Consortio listened to our requirements and tailored a service which ticked all the boxes. The team at Consortio is always professional and responsive so I can get on with my day to day requirements with the assurance that my clients and contractors are in safe hands.
I have no hesitation when it comes to referring Consortio to any company engaging contracting staff.
I am very satisfied with the service that I received from Consortio and undoubtedly for me you guys are the best in the business. Special thanks to Lina for her friendly yet professional approach and for going above and beyond to help whenever needed. I would definitely approach you in the future if needed and I'll recommend Consortio to anyone I know


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The Bohemian composer Bedřich Diviš Weber met Mozart in Prague and studied with Abt Vogler, continuing to write in a style reflecting that of Mozart, his idol. He had, however, little sympathy for Carl Maria von Weber. He was the first director of the Prague Conservatory, from 1811 until his death.
Vocal and Instrumental Music
Weber showed interest in newly developing instruments but remained decidedly conservative in his style of composition. His varied works include a patriotic cantata, lighter music, an opera, chamber and piano music, and a set of variations for trumpet and orchestra.


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Tracie Giles Featured by Metro
Our Permanent Makeup treatments for 'I'm a Celebrity' pin-up Jessica Jane Clement were featured on Metro's website recently. (more...)...Read More
Jessica Jane Clement's Celebrity Natural Look Treatment
Jessica Jane Clement model and 'The Real Hustle' star has gone all out to make sure she looks her best 24/7 whilst in front of the jungle cameras in 'I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here'. (more...)...Read More
Lauren Goodger in Beauchamp Place Eyebrow Boutique
More fun and paparazzi in Beauchamp Place this week as another TOWIE star 'discreetly visited' our permanent eyebrow boutique. This time it was the glamorous (more...)...Read More
Permanent Makeup for Synchronised Swimmers
From your armchair watching synchronised swimmers on TV, you may take a dim view of their athletic prowess, but Jenna Randall who with her partner Olivia Allison represented Britain at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, describes her sport as, (more...)...Read More
Alopecia Hair Loss Woman Has Permanent Makeup Eyebrows
The 3D Brow Replication from Tracie Giles; giving hope to women and men with hair loss caused by Alopecia, Chemotherapy, Hair Pulling and other medical conditions. (more...)...Read More
The Last Word on the BAFTAS
So the day after the BAFTAS the newspapers have been having a field day commenting on the best dressed and worst dressed celebrities. You have to admit that some of the girls should have been swallowed up by the red carpet and (more...)...Read More
BAFTA'S Lydia Rose Bright's Gorgeous Eyebrows by Tracie Giles 'Breaking News'
As I write this I am watching Lydia and James 'Arg' Argent, at the BAFTA'S the event of the year for television artists. (more...)...Read More
Lydia-Rose Bright's Gorgeous Permanent Eyebrows
Since the first series of The Only Way Is Essex, star Lydia-Rose Bright is a changed girl and gradually getting super model looks. Last year she admitted that seeing herself on screen made her think about her body and as a result she cut the rubbish from her diet, hired...Read More
Lydia Bright & Arg Invade Knightsbridge
The ONLY way from ESSEX was to CHELSEA in a taxi very quickly to Tracie Giles and her team, for some serious Eyebrow Glitz & Glamour. Lydia and 'Arg' aka James slid in amongst the paparazzi outside behind sun glasses, Christian Louboutin heels and massive earrings to the sanctuary of...Read More
Take It Easy Article in Full
We've been a bit busy since the item about us in The Sunday People yesterday. ...Read More


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This week on Dying Scene Radio, Bobby Pickles welcomes lifelong friend and musical prodigy Nick Ameen "in-studio" to help usher in 2016 (the Year of the Monkey). TONE LO-KI joins the conversation, welcoming his lifelong friend and musical prodigy, Sour Shoes (from the Howard Stern Show). Bobby recaps the major headlines of 2015 and spins his favorite music by bands/guests featured this past year on the podcast.
R.I.P. Lemmy 1945-2015
Hear all the incessant blathering and latest music and headlines, below.
Motörhead – Victory of Die
Teenage Bottlerocket – Nothing Else Matters (When I'm With You)
Nick Ameen – Spike The Punch
Entropy NY – So It Goes
Out Of Order – No Cares
¡LA VASA! – Mama Tried
Tartar Control – My God's Cock
PEARS – Snowflake
The Regressives – Problems
Screeching Weasel – Things Aren't So Bad After All
Bad Cop / Bad Cop – Nightmare
The Decline – I Don't Believe
Chaos Delivery Machine – God Of Prey
Svetlanas – Crimea River
Templeton Pek – Broken Lines
Black Cat Attack – Conquer Destroy Exterminate!
Millencolin – Believe In John
Frank Turner – Silent Key
Thee Money $hot – Lady Killer
Sic Waiting – Maps
Laura Jane Grace (feat. Miley Cyrus) – True Trans Soul Rebel
Direct Download (right click/save)
You can subscribe to Dying Scene Radio via RSS, on iTunes or with the TuneIn or Stitcher apps for iOS and Android. We also enjoy reading listener feedback on the air, so feel free to send us an e-mail. Or call us on the hotline – (347) 754-PUNK.
Follow us on Instagram: @DyingSceneRadio
Like us on Facebook: /DyingSceneRadio
This week's sponsor is, as always, FAT ENZO.


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Walks on Waiheke
To date Waiheke is free of Kauri Die Back Disease which has spread across the mainland destroying the majestic old trees. This makes our trees even more precious. You will find that some reserves and sections of tracks have been closed to prevent the spread of the disease. Please do you part to avoid bring the disease to Waiheke by staying on tracks and off tree roots, and brushing and cleaning shoes (and wheels) at the stations when you enter and exit tracks.
Te Ara Hura Walkways
Waiheke Island's walkways offer a unique diversity and tranquility with many areas of historic interest and large tracts of reserve land. The Te Ara Hura walking track network now means you can circumnavigate the entire island, but shorter parts of this can also be done. The walks are well signposted and of varying lengths and levels. Brochures about these can be picked up at the ferry terminals, or from the i-site in Oneroa.
The Te Ara Hura walkway is split into 4 sections:
These walks centre around the headlands from Matiatia and Oneroa Village, with walks around the Owhanake and Church Bay Peninsulas, and many stunning views across the Hauraki Gulf, and access to little known beaches. It also passes several great vineyards, perfect for a break!
These walks explore the coast from Oneroa Village passing the many lovely beaches on both the northern and the southern coastlines.
This section of the walkway includes the Whakanewha regional park, from which there is a network of short walking tracks through coastal forest. The two hour walk to the Cascades is a highlight. Whakanewha also offers sheltered swimming on a long, sweeping beach with a panoramic bush clad backdrop. At high tide the water is shallow and perfect for children. A lovely spot to enjoy a picnic on the foreshore.This section of the track also includes the lovely Onetangi Forest & Bird Reserve, a loop track that passes through a kauri grove and offers spectacular gulf views. Home to extensive native bush and birdlife the reserve is well worth a visit. It also includes Te Toki Reserve, Te Whau and Omiha/Rocky Bay, so there is plenty to explore!
This walk explores the large area to the eastern end of the island, with longer distances and fewer people! It includes the Stony Batter Historic Reserve, which features gun sites and an extensive system of underground chambers linked by hundreds of meters of channels and stairs that date back to World War II. Stony Batter is considered to be an engineering heritage site of international significance. It then continues on to Man O'War Bay (and winery!), Orapiu and Awaawaroa. Note that this end of the island is not serviced by public transport, so plan your walk well!
Other Reserves
- MCKENZIE RESERVE This 4ha (10 acres) of public Reserve on the northern side of Waiheke Island between Oneroa and Palm Beach had been a neglected pine forest since the 1950s. Following a report condemning hundreds of trees, 40 nearby residents organised their removal in 2005. They have since built over 2 km of walking tracks that criss-cross the Reserve and have planted more than 10,000 native plants and trees, creating a verdant oasis and helping to restore this strategically-located land to its former beauty. Access either from Empire Ave (Enclosure Bay) or at the top from Great Barrier Rd.
Guided Walks
If you are interested in a guided walk, we highly recommend the following:
- Walking by Nature | 021 669 722
- I Walk Waiheke 021 960 690


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The Test Doesn't Tell All
|High-stakes tests fail to catch the subtleties of incremental improvement that inform teachers' day-to-day curricular and instructional decisions.
In this time of high-stakes testing, we rarely get a true picture of
what children know and need to know in order to meet high standards.
Test scores do not tell all. By investing significant resources in
improving our children's test-taking skills and making teachers better
at preparing students for these tests, we limit real education. The
limitations are especially evident in underresourced schools, where the
need for maximizing time and opportunity for learning is the greatest.
High-stakes tests fail to catch the subtleties of incremental
improvement that inform teachers' day-to-day curricular and
instructional decisions. The tests also offer no guidance on what types
of professional development teachers need in order to build capacity
for student achievement.
To capture these subtleties and design effective professional development for teachers, we need to figure out what is going on in classrooms where kids are learning successfully. If we are serious about accountability, we need to teach teachers how to assess their own work and its impact on their students. Teachers are in the best position to collect and use this data to shape their practice and inform educational decision-making. Teachers also are able to powerfully demonstrate the impact of a curricular or instructional mandate on their students.
Over the past two years, fellows of the National Teacher Policy Institute, a professional community of full-time K-12 classroom teachers working in urban, suburban, and rural settings, have been conducting action research in their classrooms and schools to help identify issues affecting student achievement and how these relate to standards. Their studies cover such topics as adolescent literacy, parent-teacher communication, portfolio assessment, cross-age peer tutoring, and teacher retention. They fall into four categories: teacher preparation and new-teacher induction, ongoing professional growth, teacher networks, and teacher leadership in school change."
Teachers are in the best position to inform educational decision-making.
In these studies, the fellows are crafting compelling designs of what needs to happen if we are truly to support students so that they reach the standards.
A middle school teacher in New York City's Community District 2, whose class has an Asian-American majority, provides one example. The teacher saw that meeting the "speaking and listening" performance standard was a great challenge for her students. She also recognized that the parents of her students needed to be aware of the standards to give support to their children in achieving them. She was able to identify a cultural mismatch between the speaking and listening standard and how her students had been raised. A bilingual school aide described the mismatch in this way:
For thousands of years, Chinese haven't talked during meals. Just put your mouth on the food. My daughter said one time, "Mommy, American families talk during lunch."
In fact, the New York state standard on speaking and listening requires students to participate in group conversations and meet several criteria, including voicing opinions that may be in conflict with those of others in a group. In the classroom described above, however, many students believed that vocal disagreement with others constituted disrespectful behavior. They have been conditioned to be quiet. One student wrote: "A lot of our parents tell us not to argue. That's not respectful. If I disagree with someone's answer, they might get their feelings hurt. It's like arguing or telling them that they're wrong."
The reality was that parents were unaware of the standards because they had never been explained to them in a language they could understand. After this teacher spoke to the parents (during parent-teacher conferences aided by the school's sole, part-time translator) about why discussions in school are important and offered suggestions to help their children become more vocal, student participation in group conversation immediately increased. Students' ability to meet the criteria for speaking continued to improve dramatically throughout the year.
|By participating in a teacher network, new teachers were able to demonstrate improved professional practice and were better able to implement standards-based instruction.
In another example, a Los Angeles teacher did research on the impact of collaboration within a teacher network on new teachers' understanding and use of state language-arts standards in their classroom practice. More than half of the teachers in this researcher's primary school are noncredentialed and have taught for less than three years—a common situation in urban schools throughout the country. By participating in a teacher network called the Early Literacy Club, these new teachers were able to demonstrate improved professional practice and were better able to implement standards-based instruction in their classrooms. Teachers who did not participate in the teacher network left teaching at the end of the year. Those who participated stayed in the classroom.
A further demonstration of the value of teacher input in helping students reach high standards is provided by a New York City high school teacher who was part of a team that has instituted portfolio assessment as an alternative to the state regents' examinations. Teachers in every subject area worked together to compare their curricula and the state standards; they revised student assignments and grading criteria to better align with the standards. Over time, the result of their alternative to the exams was that student work rose to meet standards-based assessment criteria. In her study of seniors' work with portfolios, the teacher discovered that the portfolio approach provided a much richer profile of students' knowledge and skills than that provided by a standardized test. She notes that the best ways to "determine if students can apply the scientific method or conduct research is to look at students' actual experiments and research projects."
Teacher research can be a powerful tool for realizing change felt far beyond the classroom.
These examples of teacher research, as well as dozens of others from New York City; Los Angeles; Santa Barbara County, Calif.; Fairfax County, Va.; and the state of Illinois, have been published in a new book, What Matters Most: Improving Student Achievement. This Rockefeller-funded publication connects the action-research findings of National Teacher Policy Institute teachers with the recommendations of the National Commission on Teaching & America's Future, and demonstrates the power that teacher research can have on shaping teaching practice and student-learning outcomes. In her preface, Linda Darling-Hammond, the executive director of the commission, writes, "We at the commission through our partnership with NTPI plan to use the lessons gained to engage more teachers in our policy research and discourse ... and encourage all engaged in similar efforts to do the same."
Through this work, we have seen how teacher research can be a powerful tool for realizing change felt far beyond the classroom. Teachers who ask questions about their practice and try to determine the extent of their students' learning stimulate professional discourse about teaching and learning and move the conversation outward to include parents, communities, and other stakeholders.
Educational policy that is informed by teachers' voices becomes significantly more responsive to local needs for resources, professional development, and other supports—enabling all students to better meet high standards.
Ellen Meyers is the vice president of programs and communications for The Teachers Network in New York City. Frances O'Connell Rust is an associate professor of education at New York University. The books What Matters Most: Improving Student Achievement and A Guidebook for Connecting Policy to Practice in Improving Student Achievement are available through The Teachers Network, [email protected].
Vol. 19, Issue 38, Pages 34, 37Published in Print: May 31, 2000, as The Test Doesn't Tell All
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It's been a couple of years since we last reviewed a MotoGP game. A whole console generation, in fact. MotoGP 14 is here to put the PlayStation 4 through its paces. Has anything substantial been added to the series, or is it merely a roster update and spit shine?
If you've ever dreamed of straddling state-of-the-art motorcycles but are strapped on cash, MotoGP 14 tries to fit the bill. Three leagues of motorcycle racing are available, including Moto3, Moto2, and MotoGP, which have increasingly more powerful bikes which each require different tactics to master. You can race with standard, semi-pro, and pro level of physics, which makes the bikes control increasingly more realistic. Only choose the pro level if you really know how to handle the bikes, because it takes a steady hand and a lot of patience to control these beasts accurately with assists turned off. MotoGP 14 intends to be a simulator, not an arcade game.
MotoGP 14 Review (PS4) -- PlayStation LifeStyle
Game Modes Galore
Beyond the basic Instant Race mode, there is a Grand Prix, which allows you to set up a custom race with various mixtures of professional racers, including champions of past seasons. There's also a Championship mode, which allows you to run through a single season in an attempt to come out on top. You can choose the order of the tracks that you will race in, and can create a championship as long or short as you desire. There's also Real Events 2013, which tasks you with altering history by preventing certain events from occurring which happened during the 2013 season, and Challenge the Champions, where you have to beat the best at their own game. Finally, a Time Attack and Safety Car mode round out the group. The Safety Car mode is a chance to drive the BMW M4 Coupe, which is the safety car that comes out in the event of an accident to slow down the riders. You can compete in an online leaderboard. It's a nice break from the two-wheeled action, though by no means a Gran Turismo level car simulator. Suffice to say, there are a lot of modes to play through.
All of these modes seem to be sideshows compared to the main attraction, the Career Mode. Here, you start out in the humble Moto3 league, which is akin to minor-league baseball — you're a professional, but not yet in "The Bigs." Your team will give you various goals, such as finishing at or above a certain position, or beating your teammate. Perform well, and you attract the attention of other, higher-ranked teams. You'll unlock better riding gear as well. Instead of earning money, you earn fans and bike parts. Collect enough fans to unlock new characters and media assets (photos and videos of real-life racing, to be viewed anytime from your in-game trailer's flatscreen television), and collect enough parts to upgrade one aspect of your bike. Since there is no money involved, the choice to join a new, better team becomes pretty easy when you're basically guaranteed to have a better bike.
The career mode in MotoGP 14 is about as immersive as the game gets. The presentation is a bit lacking. There's a single announcer, who only speaks before and after a race, using canned messages that can fit into any start/end/win/loss situation. It's better than no voice work at all, but more effort here could go a long way. There's some more immersion-breaking designs strewn throughout the game while actually racing, as well. While you have the usual third-person camera options, there are also behind-the-dash and helmet cameras. The only difference between those last two is that the helmet camera has an overlay designed to look like the inside of a helmet, and all noises are slightly muffled. There is no wind sound effect, nor heavy breathing of your player, nor tunnel vision that is often experienced at such high speeds and G-forces. It's simply an overlay on top of the pre-existing behind-the-dash camera. This is a shame, because at first I was excited to see an in-helmet camera, only to be disappointed at the lack of any immersion-creating visual or auditory effects.
Fans Only
Oh, there's a multiplayer component as well, but it's definitely rough around the edges. There's a handful of modes, including championships, but it is a challenge to find enough players to ride with. You can start a race with as few as two players, thankfully. Once any race gets going, expect to see hilarious lag compensation as the opposing player characters rapidly float away from their bikes as they speed away. Something is seriously wrong with the netcode in MotoGP, and the end result is that although you are technically competing in real-time, it really doesn't feel like it.
MotoGP 14 is a competent MotoGP racing game. Milestone S.rl. knows their target demographic, and mostly knows what they want to see. There's not much fluff to this game; it's simply you, a bike, and the track. Crank up the physics, and the road becomes less forgiving. Turn off assists and crank the physics up, and you better know the track like the back of your hand, or else you will perform poorly, crash, or worse. However, racing games are held to a very high immersion standard these days, and MotoGP 14 fails to do so in several key areas. The graphics don't impress very much, despite higher-resolution textures being favored over a higher frame rate. The cockpit view still feels just like a floating camera, and all the bikes sound identical. The career mode is a fun way to progress from the weaker Moto3 bikes to the scary-powerful MotoGP ones, at least, but even that experience is a bit dulled as you don't earn money, only fans and parts. At a full asking price of $60, this is a tough sell to anyone who is not a hardcore MotoGP/AMA fan.
Review copy was provided by the publisher. For information on scoring, please read our Review Policy here.


text: I don't know if you're familiar with the Love and Logic parenting books, but there is one geared toward developing attention skills that might be helpful to you. It sounds like at this time it may just be an age thing. Perhaps you should consider taking him out of school and starting again next year? It seems extreme, but may be best in the long run-- he'll always then have the advantage of being the oldest instead of always trying to catch up because he's so young.


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Now this is the epitome of a Lazy Bride recipe – frozen lemonade, vodka and beer. No fuss, no muss, no effort yet maximum taste and color. Plus this baby packs a punch, fiddle dee dee! Just the thing to while a way a steamy, hot day in July. Cheers!!
Southern Pink Lemonade Cocktail
- 1 (12-oz.) can frozen pink lemonade concentrate, thawed
- 3 (12-oz.) bottles beer (not dark), chilled
- 3/4 cup vodka, chilled
- Ice
- Garnishes: fresh cranberries, citrus slices
Stir together liquids. Serve over ice. Garnish, if desired.
Recipe and photo from Southern Living
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Garda Cash Logistics recently visited the U.S. Bank senior leadership team to discuss armored vehicle operations. During the meeting, U.S. Bank got to view an exciting Cash Vault Services and Armored demonstration at the St. Paul branch location.
"I want to thank everyone involved, for your outstanding efforts and professionalism during the U.S. Bank meetings," said Garda Account Manager, Lisa Field. "Each of your individual areas of expertise offered us the ability to demonstrate Garda's consistent and exceptional service delivery, and our commitment to the U.S. Bank partnership."
Special thanks to Rick Salo and the team in St. Paul for hosting the Cash Vault Services and Armored demonstration with Jean Fichtel, EVP Consumer Banking, Kathy Jo Lafleur, AVP ATM Debit Services, and Delisia Venus, Vendor Manager.
"It isn't often a client's senior leadership is eager to take time out of the day to dig into the trenches of an armored carrier's operations. I am sure you will all agree that they thoroughly enjoyed themselves, which is seen evident in the photo accompanying this post," Lisa added.


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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: Exhale (08/15/13)
TITLE: The Last Breath | Previous Challenge Entry
By Graham Insley
Harry jumped to his feet and trotted into the bush. Catching a horse was now a matter of life and death.
A normal morning; some scrub cattle to muster, early sunrise over gum trees, kookaburras laughing and cockatoos flying around. But as the two stockmen rode along the dingo fence the morning changed.
The eastern brown snake was unseen until too late. It struck at George's horse; up went the nag and down went the rider. When his shoulders hit the ground, George rolled the wrong way; the snake was waiting. Sinking its fangs into his calf, it delivered a deadly truck load of poison. One of the most toxic land snakes in the world was trying to claim a victim.
Harry's horse also shied; but Harry came off his saddle on purpose. With a side arm he shot the snake; but the gun shot then added to the drama. Both horses now reared in panic and took off into the bush. These four legged animals were used to snakes, and gun shots, but this morning it just all seemed too much and they did not want to hang around. Catching one of them was now the only way to save a stockman's life.
It was a long way back to the homestead and by the time they walked there George would be dead. Keeping him calm was now essential; inhale long, deep and slow, hold, exhale slowly. It was important because the faster the blood moved, the faster the poison hit the system. And right now these men needed time to slow right down.
Harry returned with both mares quite quickly and with just as much speed, but not panic, he helped George into the saddle. "We've got to get going, mate. Just hang in there buddy; we'll get help soon."
"Pray for me, Harry."
"I have been doing, mate."
"Out loud. I need to hear it; I'm scared."
"Father, I need You to protect George and help him to stay calm. Stop this poison, Lord, and keep my mate safe. We need Your help here..."
The prayer came to a fast end when George once again fell from his horse. His breathing was now far from calm. Little gasps and grunts were a bad sign. His bowel vacated and, as Harry leaped to his side, he suddenly went into a major convulsion.
"George, come on mate. Oh God; help me. What do I do Lord?"
The victim's eyes suddenly shot open and fixed firmly on his friend's face. With surprising clarity his words struck Harry's heart. "I'm frightened mate. I think I'm going to die!"
"Come on; I'll get you back on that horse."
"I'm not going to make it."
"We've got to try."
"Harry, I'm not ready to die."
"You don't have to die, George. You may have to leave this place; but you don't have to die."
It was two hours later when Harry rode back into the homestead. His dead mate was over the saddle of the second horse.
He cried as he told the boss what had happened; who quickly took a step forward and put his arm around the stockman's shoulders. "A bad time, mate. Rotten luck all round, hey?"
"Not all round, Red. At least one good thing came out of it."
"Hey, what you talking about? He's dead!"
"Yeah. An' I reckon that's as bad as it gets; except for one thing. Just before he breathed his last breath, he accepted Jesus as his Lord."
The opinions expressed by authors may not necessarily reflect the opinion of FaithWriters.com.
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Voluntary Work.....
Off topic, keep it clean and legal!
4 posts • Page 1 of 1
Voluntary Work.....
Anyone else do it? Only started a while ago but I quite enjoy it
- Old Skool Don Daddy
- Posts: 3168
- Joined: Sun Oct 28, 2001 12:00 am
- Location: Stevenage. Herts
Re: Voluntary Work.....
I know Abo does. I am a school governor for my kids primary school, takes up a fair amount of time, but I do enjoy it.
- dreamweave
- Old Skool Master
- Posts: 1363
- Joined: Thu May 30, 2002 6:26 pm
- Location: Bournemouth
- Contact:
Re: Voluntary Work.....
I volunteered for five years at a local school for kids with disabilities and loved it. Off the back of that doing an OU course in health and social care to undertake that type of work full time. What are you volunteering as?
Re: Voluntary Work.....
Working in the Cafe for the local Royal Voluntary Service at the moment. Need to do a few more home visits before they will let me lose solo on these.dreamweave wrote:What are you volunteering as?
4 posts • Page 1 of 1


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Storm Windows Installers in Horn Lake, MS
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Reviews you can trust.
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Best Choice Roofing is a national roofing company with offices all across the United States. Ever since our start in 2009,… More
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Click here to register or to donate.
Auto self-registration is not available here - far too many spammers. This forum has many, many backlinks and because of that there is an intense desire among spammers to drop their links here.
« Unanswered threads, and donations | [SOLVED] Single page showing as Atahualpa after changing theme »


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World Cup: England's Sinckler 'has better mindset for big matches'
PUBLISHED: 11:10 30 October 2019 | UPDATED: 11:11 30 October 2019
PA Wire/PA Images
Kyle Sinckler will be ready to explode into Saturday's World Cup final after learning how to adjust his psychological approach to big games.
England face South Africa at International Stadium Yokohama and Sinckler will continue at tighthead prop if he overcomes the calf problem sustained in the extraordinary 19-7 semi-final victory over New Zealand.
The 26-year-old, who was undergoing a fitness test in training on Wednesday, has been a force throughout Japan 2019 and will enter the Springboks showdown as one of Eddie Jones' key personnel.
The biggest moment of his career awaits in Yokohama and having learned how to harness his enthusiasm, he is ready to empty the tanks at the right moment.
You may also want to watch:
"I give it everything when I'm on the field and lay it all on the line every time," Maximuscle ambassador Sinckler said.
"Managing this comes from experience and the main thing for me is not to play Saturday's game over a thousand times in my head during the week.
"I've learned to build myself towards the game, whereas when I was younger I'd be ready for the game on a Sunday night and I'd burn out because there was another week of preparation to go.
"Now I can control this side of my game much more knowing that if I've prepared well, especially nutritionally, then I've nothing to be nervous about.
"I pride myself on my preparation and the game is the fun bit."
*Kyle Sinckler has joined forces with Maximuscle, the UK's leading sports nutrition brand, to help him become the best in the world.
If you value what this story gives you, please consider supporting the Brent & Kilburn Times. Click the link in the orange box above for details.


text:
The Green Man
Monday, April 20, 2009
By Sara Moore
What's old is new again with Tumbler & Tipsy. These ties are made from recycled vintage clothing for one-of-a-kind pieces and because they're unisex, you can steal them from his closet. TumblerAndTipsy.com, Starts at $35.
Get the perfect shave with Herban Cowboy Organic Grooming Shave Cream. This natural formula contains organic aloe, lavender and peppermint, and has a dusk scent. Drugstore.com, $11.89.
Get your engines ready with the eco-friendly fuel and engine conditioner by Force For Earth. It helps increase gas mileage up to 20 percent and reduces emissions by 30 percent or more, which helps reduce air pollution. ForEarthOnline.com, $39.95.
Now he can go green while tee-ing off with the Wheatware golf combo pack. The bio-compostable set includes 15 standard tees, 18 long tees, 2 divot lifters, and 4 ball markers. Wheatware.com, $4.99.
No water in sight, no problem! The new Orange Plus non-abrasive waterless cleaning towels contains orange oil to clean hands, and aloe vera, vitamin E and wheat germ for moisturizing. They can also be used to clean the dashboard and leather seats. Whole Food Markets, $5.80.
Even he needs to go shopping and when he does he will be prepared with the ACME EarthTote. These reusable bags are the same size as the classic grocery paper bag but tough enough to be used over and over again. ReusableBags.com, Set of 4/$54.95.


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In October 2018, on behalf of New Frontiers In Food (NFIF), Vitagora coordinated a partnership mission in Canada with our local partner Natural Products Canada, in parallel to the BENEFIQ, the healthy food event organized by INAF (Institut sur la Nutrition et l'Alimentation Fonctionnelle) in Québec. The delegation gathered together 13 members from Vitagora and Wagralim. Within this delegation, 6 companies were part of the New Frontiers In Food Fast Forward cohort: Atelier du Fruit (FR), BIOptimize (FR), Extense Pharma (BE), Improve (FR), Vesale Pharma (BE) et Youmeal (BE).
This mission enabled the companies to better understand the Canadian ecosystem, including public players, research teams and Canadian companies. Also, the NFIF cohort was able to validate the market potential of their specific product and service sector. Collaborations were initiated, both at academic and industrial levels. In average, each company within the NFIF cohort completed a program of 17 personalized matchmaking meetings. The delegation has also been strongly supported by Québec International including its Créneau Aliments Santé.
Looking at results a few weeks later on, the NFIF cohort companies shared great progress with their Canadian counterparts:
- Business deals under discussion for 2 companies
- 2 partnerships under discussion with Saskatchewan organizations
- Further collaboration with INAF as part of a MoU signed during the mission
- 1 new partnership under discussion with INAF
- 2 businesses looking at opening a local subsidiary
Moreover, strong relationships were developed within the delegation, resulting in new collaborations signed at the European level.
NFIF thanks all the participants for their engagement in this journey and is looking forward to making further progress.
Interested in finding out more? Contact Anne-Céline Renaud, Vitagora:


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Sergi Colom Mas
Habits. How to deal with stress in our daily life.
Last week we were talking about how to make our life easier, and while we debated about that I thought it had a lot to do with habits. Next week, linking with the previous subject, we can discuss about how to deal with habits, how to break a bad one and how to get a good one. Most of the time bad habits are simply a way of dealing with stress, and stress is usually the reason we don't have a pleasant time. Thus, lets see if we can clear up why we get bad habits and how to replace them for good ones in order to have our life more pleasant.
See you next Wednesday at the school library at 21:30PM
Live easier. Review
Yesterday Antoni told us a history about how Jon Jandai made his life easier. We mixed up very fast different concepts: simple living, happiness, money, obligations, debts and all the things we must deal every day in our life. Jon Jandai took his way to achieve his goals, but not everybody can leave his/her life to join him in his little village in Thailand, but we agreed in thinking that everyone has to find his own way to make his/her life easier and become happier. Simple and natural things make us feel good and complicated and stressful things usually make the contrary effect. I leave you with Jon Jandai's reflections and have a happy time.
New technologies. Review
Yesterday we talked about New Technologies. As usual, there were different opinions among the audience. The first agreement we achieved was that the improper use of technologies can be bad for people. Sometime people talk about addictions, for example to the mobile phone. But I think, as Tom Uglow said, we are addicted to information, which flows through devices like computers, tablets pc, or mobile phones. Information is power and we live in a time where we have almost instant access to information so keep updated make us powerful. It is also true that technology destroys jobs today, but we also can see how technology creates jobs for the future. What remains to be seen is if Technology will be able to create jobs for everyone all over the world.
So don't blame it on the computers, don't blame it on the mobile phones, don't blame it on the tablet pc's, blame it on the boogie.
How new technology affects our way of living.
Last week we talked about our weekly topic and saw how everyone can have his/her own opinion about almost everything. It is mostly because we live in a society where we have a lot of information available on the internet.
Sometimes we don't pay attention to how fast new technologies are changing our way of living and we don't stop and imagine how things will be in the future.
However, some people think about it and imagine new devices that they will be essential parts of our life in the future. Of course, none of us can imagine them.
Next day we are going to debate about New Technologies which have negative as well as positive aspects. Meanwhile, I recommend you to listen to Tom Uglow, who imagine "an Internet without screens might look like this". Of course, his talk is in the kind side of the subject. Tom will be our virtual guest at our next meeting.
See you on Wednesday 28th October at the school library at 21:30 PM
Healhy eating. Review
Yesterday Laura Rubio taught us about the olive oil goodness. As a member of an investigation team at the University of Lleida she carried out a study where they proved that olive oil is a very recommendable product to include in our diet every day. She also told us how they worked up to make a new enriched olive oil including some nutrients which are normally lost during the process of production. Unfortunately, we still cannot find this new product in supermarkets. After olive oil came up for discussion other products like milk, wine, pork, sugar, flour, butter, etc… and some different groups were formed in favour or against eating them. Nowadays everyone has his own opinion about nutrition since we have a lot of information available around. Sometimes there are serious disagreements about the same product. Laura highly approved having milk in our diet while Antoni totally disagreed. As usual, Frank brought upcontributed with opinions and studies from the scientific word and quite a lot figures proving those theories.
At last it was an interesting debate.
Healthy food
This week we are recovering the topic of healthy eating. As you know, during the summer we could not count on the presence of Laura Rubio because she couldn't attend the meeting for illness. Fortunately, we can rescue the "Mediterranean diet" as a topic for next Wednesday. She's going to tell us how her scientific team has proved the goodness of products from our zone like olive oil or wine against other ingredients typical of other latitudes.
You can learn more about Laura Piqué if you go back to the text posted on Sunday, 30 August 2015. Click here to visit it.
You all are invited as usual next Wednesday, 21th October, 21:30 at the school library. Don't miss this opportunity.
Sports values. Review.
Yesterday we debated about sports values. Silvia Cantons told us first hand how is the routine of a teenager involved in high level competition. She has two children who are enrolled in international sports competition. They compete in hurdles. But we wanted to clear up if sports values can be exported to real life. Most of us agreed about Coach's importance. Coaches like teachers are very important to shape the character of young athletes. Coaches also should educate young athletes in those sports values which help them achieve their goals. This is, according to the general opinion, the most important thing since not always our teenagers are coached properly.
We were lacking young people in yesterday's session because I think also their opinion about the matter would have been interesting to listen to.
Debate. Do sports teach the right lessons to our children?
We are living in a society where most of us are concerned about education, not only our children education but people education in general.
Sport has been traditionally considered as a tool to provide values like effort, self-esteem, respect, positive attitude, perseverance or integrity. But, according to what we see and hear around, world sports seems to be in a perpetual scandal. Corruption, doping, arranged matches, violence in stadiums, etc, are quite usual and star athletes may not always be the best role models for our kids these days.
This week we are talking on Wednesday, 21:30h, about this matter and Silvia Cantons will help us to debate about it since she has two children in high level international sports competition.
Thailand. Review
Yesterday we talked about Thailand. I was very surprised that many attendants had been to Thailand. Assun and Laia described their experiences but Albert, Dolors and Sabrina also knew first-hand about that country. Assun showed us a series of nice pictures and told us, summarising, what we have to know about this country if we plan to go there. Albert helped her since he had also spent his holidays in Bangkok visiting his brother who's living and working there. Laia, in a different way, told us how is life and education in a little city far away from the tourist areas, since she worked for three weeks in a public school, teaching English to her pupils who, apparently, had never seen a tourist before. We saw two different worlds in the same country.
The session was very crowded and we congratulate all the attendants for making that effort. Thank you.
In the last few weeks, two of our friends, members of Speak Up Menàrguens have been to Thailand for some time. We'll see two different points of view. On the one hand Assun travelled there on her holidays for a strongly recommended trip. We 'll learn about a different culture, climate, language, customs and food. In short, what we should know about that country, according her point of view. On the other hand Laia spent about a month in Thailand carrying out social tasks in a NGO. We'll see from her experience what do Thailand people need from us, and how this kind of experience help our young people to became more confident while they are out of their comfort zone, how they develop cultural sensitivity and how they adapt to globalization and social networking.
See all of you next Wednesday 7th October, (21:30) at the school media room.