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Bilbo Baggins, who lives in Ashtead with owner Philippa Cadge, was selected from one of 6 finalists, via a public vote run by Yours Magazine.
For the last four years, Bilbo and Philippa have been visiting Cherry Trees in East Clandon, which runs respite for children with disabilities. The pair are also regular faces at the Furze Hill Lodge Care Home in Kingswood.
Bilbo was presented with his winner's rosette by author and TV presenter, Victoria Stilwell.
Speaking immediately after the announcement, Philippa, 76, said: "I am absolutely thrilled to bits to have won. Bilbo Baggins makes such a difference to the people he sees at Cherry Trees and at Furze Hill, so it's wonderful to be acknowledged like this.
"I can't wait to share the news with the people at Cherry Trees, because it was them who decided Bilbo deserved to be nominated."
Philippa, who was planning a glass of celebratory champagne with her husband, also received a £500 cheque from award sponsor, HiLife.
Since Pets As Therapy launched in 1983, close to 30,000 dogs have been enrolled into its scheme, with thousands making therapeutic visits to homes, hospitals and schools every week.
The charity has used Crufts as its platform to award a particularly impressive PAT dog, with the title.
Cheryl Tissot, CEO of Pets As Therapy, said: "Our congratulations go to Philippa and Bilbo on a well deserved win.
"We are exceptionally proud of the 5,000 plus volunteers who deliver such good work throughout their communities as part of Pets As Therapy, and being at Crufts to present this award is a great piece of recognition for our volunteers and their dogs.
"We also owe our thanks to the wonderful team at HiLife who have passionately supported this award and are keen to acknowledge the time and energy put in by volunteers like Philippa."
HiLife haMarketing director, Peter Parkinson, said: "Once again we were proud to sponsor this incredible event and hear about the work the handlers and their dogs do up and down the country. Each year we hear how these visits bring joy to people's lives and this time was no exception.
"Bilbo is a credit to his owner Philippa and I am pleased that he has been recognised at Crufts. As always we are delighted to be associated with Pets as Therapy and all the dedicated volunteers who give up their time to help others."
Pets As Therapy is always keen to hear from those who are interested in becoming part of Pets As Therapy's great work.
For more information, visit www.petsastherapy.org


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Julia Snyder
Associate News Editor
One of the earliest American History lessons children are taught is that on July 4, 1776, America declared its independence from the British. However, an equally important day in American history was September 17, 1787, which was the day the Constitution was signed. This day is remembered by millions of citizens each year, but Millersville has extended the celebration to last an entire week. Dr. Adam Lawrence, a government professor at Millersville, says "At Millersville, we use the week to hold events and activities designed to educate the campus community about the rights and liberties enshrined in the Constitution and the system of government that it created."
One of the newest features of Constitution week stems from an encouraging advancement in voting registration. As of August 2015, residents of Pennsylvania are able to register to vote online. This is a huge leap for Pennsylvania, and makes the state one of 24 that have online registration systems. "Research generally indicates that a very strong majority of those who register to vote do end up voting. It is gratifying to see our state government take a bold step toward making it easier to register to vote," said Dr. Lawrence. College students especially benefit from the ability to register online, because the process makes registering for your home district more accessible.
However, since casting actual votes online is not yet possible, voters will still need to travel home or to vote by absentee ballot. Millersville's Constitution week featured a table where community members can fill out registration forms.
This year, they also included a laptop for those who wished to register online. Though it wasn't as popular as the hard copy forms, there is some speculation that an event featuring the online registration forms in a computer lab could be added to next year's Constitution week.
"We are a cautious, conservative state when it comes to pursuing electoral reform of any substantive nature," said Dr. Lawrence.
Online registration is proof that Pennsylvania is moving forward and taking risks to better suit the political need of its constituents.

subset: commoncrawl


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Are Casual Games Dead? Viximo and Z2Live Founders Weigh In Coast-to-Coast on Social Gaming Movement
There's a little East Coast-West Coast brouhaha going on in the world of video games.
I just spent a couple years in one of the casual gaming (and core gaming) epicenters of the world—Seattle. Little did I know the city might be becoming a graveyard of companies stuck in the past. At least, that could be true of casual game developers and publishers who are late to the social gaming party.
That's according to Brian Balfour, the founder of Cambridge, MA-based Viximo, a startup that makes software to help Web publishers, social networks, and social game developers make money from sales of virtual goods. Previously, Balfour founded a couple of startups in social networking and interactive entertainment, and worked for ZoomInfo; plus he's an original member of the co-working space Betahouse, so he's very in tune with the Boston tech entrepreneur community. He currently serves as Viximo's vice president of product marketing.
Balfour wrote a provocative blog post earlier this week, detailing his thoughts after attending the Casual Connect conference in Seattle last month. In the post, he gives "three reasons why casual gaming is over," and talks about what traditional casual game studios and distributors need to do to get with the social program. (For starters, it sounds like Casual Connect should integrate its panels and programs on social gaming with the main-hall presentations. Balfour says social gaming was relegated to a separate venue across the street.)
Traditional casual game companies "largely missed the boat," Balfour told me in an interview. "Their existing models of downloads and ads are completely broken." What's more, Balfour says, their traditional distribution models (content portals and gaming sites) don't work as well anymore. Big studios like EA have the resources to make strategic acquisitions and catch up, he says, but most smaller companies won't.
Balfour didn't want to call out any companies specifically. But I will. Seattle is home to many casual-game pioneers, like WildTangent, PopCap Games, Big Fish Games, and GameHouse (RealNetworks); game distributor Oberon also has a strong presence there. Here in Boston, GSN's WorldWinner is one of the leading casual-games producers. To oversimplify things a bit, most of these companies made their hay with paid-downloadable or advertising-supported games that people generally play by themselves. Adjusting to a post-Facebook and Zynga world, where lots of people play games with their friends and compete for virtual goods and prizes, is a big challenge.
"A lot of casual game companies are in a tough position," Balfour tells me. "But they're not going to plummet tomorrow. Many will make their attempt at social games, but only a few will make a successful transition. The other majority will fail, and will consolidate for cheap amounts." In any case, he adds, "It's obvious a lot of those companies are on the block to be sold."
It's clear that Balfour and Viximo, being in the virtual goods business, have an interest in seeing the social games revolution gain steam. But knowing Seattleites—and their fierce pride in the region's gaming expertise—I figured I'd get a strong reaction to Balfour's argument from the Northwest. … Next Page »
Trending on Xconomy
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3 responses to "Are Casual Games Dead? Viximo and Z2Live Founders Weigh In Coast-to-Coast on Social Gaming Movement"
Thanks for the comments on my post. I think we agree more then we disagree. I'm interested in hearing your thoughts in regards to your first point. If some of these companies are doing $100M plus, why do you think they aren't getting more aggressive with acquiring talent, content, distribution in the space if they know they have to move in that direction? Seems like there are a lot of people just standing on the sidelines watching the game fly by them.
Brian Balfour
I figured casual gaming consolidation was inevitable for a few reasons:
1) Many companies, limited space (even if that space is the wired population of the world).
2) Some companies simply will do better, shaking out some of the competitors or leaving them open to acquisition.
3) Larger companies will see the successful ones and buy them since it's easier than starting from scratch.


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Eddie Mair 4pm - 7pm
Dominic Raab Fails To Reassure EU National Over No Deal Fears
19 September 2018, 21:27 | Updated: 19 September 2018, 21:36
An EU national living in Britain told Dominic Raab he had failed to reassure her over what will happen to citizens from the continent in the event of a no deal.
The Brexit Secretary admitted EU citizens would not be offered the "exact same" settled status scheme currently proposed under the withdrawal agreement.
But, Mr Raab insisted the government would "move swiftly to secure their position" - and said details of the proposals would be released "in reasonably quick time".
The development was sparked by caller Nina who moved to London from the continent 32 years ago.
She asked why the government had not published any technical notices as to what happens to EU citizens in the event of a no deal.
And after she heard Mr Raab's response, the caller said her fears had not been allayed.
In the exclusive LBC phone-in, the Brexit Secretary also confirmed Article 50 would not be delayed even if there's no deal in place.
"We don't need to kick the can down the road, we need decisions," he told Iain Dale.
You can watch the full interview below:


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Cash for the Holidays
Do you remember your childhood memories of Christmas? The feeling of waking up early in the morning and seeing presents under the Christmas tree was a feeling that will stick with you for the rest of your life. Where did all these presents come from? Santa Claus, of course!
The truth is, however, that those presents don't just drop out of the sky! The holidays are the most expensive time of the year — you're buying gifts left and right, spending more and more cash each day leading up to the holidays. That's when things become more and more difficult for you, especially when you are low on cash.
Do you wish you had some extra cash on hand?
The average spending for the holidays in 2015 is approximately $800. In fact, it's been shown that Christmas spending is "higher among households with children," with the average spending being nearly $1,100. If you factor in everything else that piles up toward the end of the year, such as bills and unexpected expenses, that's a lot of money that is required of you!
So, what are some of your options? Well, you likely have credit cards that you rely on, but what is that really your best option? That'll depend, on interest rates and a whole lot more, but if you haven't considered an online personal loan, perhaps you should.
If you are in need of additional funding within the range of $15,000, you can rely on an online personal loan. These are no-collateral loans, which means you aren't putting up any property or assets as a way of obtaining your loan. They can be used in a variety of ways, including unexpected and unplanned expenses, medical and dental bills, and even shopping for the holidays.
What are the minimum requirements for a personal loan?
The requirements vary based on lenders, but the following are minimum requirements that are standard:
- 18 years of age or older
- S. Citizen
- Checking or Savings account with Direct Deposit
- Regular income of at least $1,000 per month
- Fair credit rating
- Must not be a regular or reserve member of the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, or Navy (or a dependent thereof), serving on active duty under a call or order that does not specify a period of thirty days or less
Please use online personal loans responsibly. These loans shouldn't be used for paying regular bills.
AOL: http://www.aol.com/article/2015/11/28/from-spending-to-celebrating-the-2015-holiday-season-in-25-stat/21272137/
Gallup: http://www.gallup.com/poll/186620/americans-plan-spending-lot-christmas.aspx
Material Disclosure: This content is for informational purposes only. OnlinePersonalLoans.com does not represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the information, content or advertisements contained on, distributed through, or linked, downloaded or accessed from any of the services contained on this website, nor the quality of any products, information or other materials displayed, purchased, or obtained by you as a result of reading and using this site. OnlinePersonalLoans.com may temporarily remove or delete what appears to be potentially unlawful content or content otherwise prohibited under this policy. Please consult your legal counsel before relying or acting on any information provided on this or any third party website. OnlinePersonalLoans.com is a marketing lead generator and DOES NOT take loan applications, originate, service, make loans or credit decisions in connection with loans, nor does OnlinePersonalLoans.com issue commitments or lock-in agreements. You should ask your lender if you have any questions or concerns about your loan or loan options.


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Hunting and fishing enthusiasts will love the game-rich grounds that our outfitters have brilliantly set up. The Mauricie region is located right in the middle of Québec, halfway between the province's two urban centres, Montréal and Québec. But don't expect to see skyscrapers there; rather, it's all forests as far as the eye can see—covering 85% of the territory—and tens of thousands of water bodies, including the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve Saint-Pierre Lake and a massive inland sea: the Gouin Reservoir. In addition to a great hunting and fishing experience, Mauricie also has plenty to offer to fans of the outdoors, relaxation and culture. But don't take our word for it—listen to our valued guests. Here are the stories that four of them had to tell!
Rick and Bob against the black bear
Bob and Rick, two retirees hailing from New York State, chose our region for their yearly hunting trip in the fall of 2016. These long-time friends were first charmed by the warm Quebecer welcome and the hospitality and know-how of their outfitter host. "Our guide had a real passion and knew the land like the back of his hand," said Rick, praising the high-quality preparation of their hunting grounds. "We felt that the watchtowers were well placed and the area was well baited. Plus, they were able to take us out there in an ATV, which was great for our old legs," Bob laughed.
The two men in their sixties appreciated the waiting period in the Québec forest and even took time to name the bears that frequented their site. Nevertheless, they didn't have to wait very long! By the end of their first day of hunting, they had brought down a large black bear. "It was a really impressive animal, five and a half feet tall! And the size of its feet was just incredible!" Rick added.
After a day filled with emotions, Rick and Bob were more than happy to find themselves once again at the lodge, in front of a warm fire, in the company of a group of hunters. "It was nice to recap our victory and practice our French a little, all over a good meal," said Rick. Rick and Bob's quick success hunting black bears meant they could enjoy a day teasing walleye and pike! "Another memorable moment," Bob added, warmly recommending the Mauricie region to all their hunter and fisher friends.
Richard and Martin discover the back country
It wasn't their first time in Québec when Richard and Martin, two French brothers, vacationed in Mauricie last fall. They had both already visited Québec City and Montréal and already been charmed by Québec hospitality, but they had hardly ever travelled outside of the urban centres.
Their grandfather had been a great storyteller and had, on several occasions, told them tales of his hunting and fishing adventures in Mauricie's private clubs. So with their imaginations conjuring up visions of the Québec wilderness, they set out for Mauricie. After a barely three-hour journey from the Montréal airport, they reached their Canadian-style chalet: an abode with both rugged charm and modern comforts. "As soon as we got in, some other fishers told us that they had just released a 'monster' pike, at least 20 pounds, back into water. That really got us worked up!" said Richard.
The next day, they set out on the water, armed with a map given to them by their outfitter host that helped them locate the best spots to tease big fish. "We got hold of pike and walleye. Fine-looking specimens," said Martin, confident of having brought back good stories to tell his children and future grand-children who could carry on the family tradition. "The outfitter was very well equipped: big boats, new motors, etc. It made our experience really comfortable, and we felt safe," Richard added pragmatically.
At the end of the day, the two brothers enjoyed a guided hike on a trail right behind their chalet. The goal: to gather a large variety of forest mushrooms. "Our guide had us taste the fruits of our labour. Delicious!" Martin promised us.
"They told us that there were more than fifty outfitters in the region. We definitely intend to come back with our wives and children so that they too can discover Mauricie, the true nature of Québec," concluded Richard.
To plan your stay in the Mauricie region, visit www.naturemauricie.com/en.


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DOE-HDBK-1080-97, Guide to Good Practices for Oral Examinations
This Primer is intended to help operations and maintenance personnel perform their duties safely by increasing their knowledge of tritium handling and control, thus reducing the likelihood of tritium releases and exposures, and by providing basic emergency responses in the case of tritium release.
doe-hdbk-1080-97.pdf -- PDF Document, 212 KB
Project Number 6910-0037
|Senior Line Manager:
|Technical Standards Program
|Senior Line Manager Org:
|Not Provided
|HS - Office of Health, Safety and Security
|Preparing Activity:
|Technical Standards Program
|Status comments:
|Canceled, effective October 2015
|Approved Date:
|Dec 01, 1997
|Last Update:
|Oct 26, 2015
|DNFSB Interest:
|Invoked Standard:
|Reason Canceled:
|The Office of Nuclear Facility Safety Programs (AU-32), within AU-30, conducted a comprehensive survey of DOE field and contractor training personnel, and found that the Handbooks are rarely used, that processes for performing the training-related processes that are the subject of the Handbooks are already in place, that the the effort needed to update the Handbook is not warranted. However, the community indicated that they had some background and historical information that made it beneficial to have the Handbooks available as archived documents.
There are no Directives invoking this standard.
There are no Directives referencing this standard.


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11 November, 2018
My school is St. John's College. It is in Udahamulla which is close to Panadura. It is 142 years old. It was founded by Cyril Jansz on 14th September 1876. He was the first principal of the school. The current principal is Harshana Peiris. There are about 2500 students and 100 teachers in my school. There are classes from Grades 6 to 13. We have many buildings, a big playground and a volley ball court. I like my school very much.
Malmi Theekshana,
Grade 7,
St. John's College,


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The Houston Dynamo will be happy to flip the calendar to July as June has been a nightmare that was punctuated with Sunday's 2-0 loss to the New York Red Bulls.
As the last two weeks have unfolded, the Dynamo have struggled to score. Against a team in a similar position — New York lost the three games leading up to Sunday's match — Houston hoped to break out. Instead, they found the same struggles tripping them as their winless streak extended to seven games.
"Frustrating," Will Bruin told media after the game. "I don't really know how to sum it up, it's just a gut check, character check. Luckily it's the end of June and not October, but we know how much we've been struggling."
OPTA Chalkboard: Driver keeps Houston offense driving at Red Bull Arena
Throughout the first 60 minutes, Houston were playing RBNY even and had their share of chances (11) and splitting the possession evenly with the hosts. That share of possession could be what's holding them back, however.
"I think we're too content just holding the ball and keeping possession," Bruin said. "When you're in the final third, you've got to be aggressive and have that killer instinct to score, and I think we're lacking that right now. But once it comes back, I think it's going to come along."
Whether it's the killer instinct or a lack of aggression, Houston's inability to notch a goal early put them behind the eight all when Fabián Espíndola slotted home New York's first real chance in the game with his 60th-minute go-ahead goal.
Without a goal to fall back on, Houston were forced to once again chase the game. Not only were they unable to score an equalizer, the push forward opened them up for their second conceded goal when Jonny Steele roofed an 88th-minute insurance goal.
In fairness, Houston were without two of their top servicemen in Boniek García and Brad Davis. After the game, head coach Dominic Kinnear chose to focus on who was on the field.
"I don't like to talk about players that aren't here because it shows disrespect to the ones that are here," he said, "so even though we'd like Brad to be here, it's unfair to talk about him."
Even without Davis and García, Houston had their chances Sunday. Whether it was a missed ball or shot off the mark, Houston simply weren't able to make them count.
"It's just that final bit at the moment," said Giles Barnes. "It's just making that 95 percent into 100 percent ... that last final pass, or staying with your runners on the opposition as well, it's just the little things that we need to tighten up all over the pitch and we know that and we're trying to remedy that.
Darrell Lovell covers the Houston Dynamo for MLSsoccer.com.


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Zomling time...
I recently posted about Alf's special shelf (adorable!) and his love for collecting. He had been collecting Star Monsters for a while but now there is a whole new series for him to get stuck into. We were kindly sent some fun little Zomlings for the kids to explore and once again they were instantly captivated by the selection of characters, designs and colours.
Zomlings are another collectable series for kids from Magic Box Toys, who are now on series 5 and I have no idea how these have managed to pass us by so far. These toys are fully fledged members of the pocket money club costing from just 50p with hundreds of designs to collect and a huge range of accessories. This is one of those things I can imagine the kids looking back on fondly as an adult remembering collecting them and maybe even having some stashed away in a memory box for years to come.
The Zomlings are squishy and small, they come in hundreds of different varieties through the five series and there is so much to collect alongside. Some creatures bear a resemblance to actual animals/people and some just look bonkers - I like that. As far as kids collectables go, these are definitely one of the better ones and good value for money.
Both kids adore the little buses that you can sit the Zomlings in, but there are also little houses and boxes to collect that fit together, creating a whole Zomling town. I love that as with most collectibles there are special gold and silver Zomlings to find, we even had a rare gold one in our set much to the kids delight. These really are perfect little pocket money buys, reward treats or birthday extras and my two are pretty hooked.
You can read all about Zomlings on the Magic Box website. Do you have any young collectors at home?


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Fredericks Photo & Films is a Virginia-based wedding photographer and filmmaker duo committed to capturing every detail of your wedding day.
We loved being a part of Matt & Julie's Willow Oaks Country Club wedding in Richmond, Virginia! The moment we met them, we just knew we were a great match. We loved getting to know them during the whole process! When clients become friends it's the best part about this business! It's so important to us to build a strong relationship with our couples, it's so vital to be able to capture the wedding day in a genuine way.
When we arrived to capture them getting ready, both Matt & Julie were pretty calm, but excited! Their entire bridal party was so laid back and they were having so much fun. I loved capturing all of Julie's bridal details from her jewelry to the lace on her dress. Matt looked very handsome in his blue suit! Once they were ready they did a First Look! First we had them hold hands around the door and then they did the full look. Their reactions were so wonderful to capture.
It was a little chilly for their March wedding but they were so glad they were able to have their outdoor ceremony! The shawls for the girls were the perfect touch. Their officiant was an old friend of Julie's dad, so that was very special to have him there to marry them. During the ceremony, a groomsman read, "First Day of my Life" by Bright Eyes. Julie & Matt wrote their own, very thoughtful, vows to one another. It was truly one of the most beautiful ceremonies we've witnessed! After the ceremony, we went on a golf cart adventure down to the river! It was cold but sooo worth it!!
Onto the reception! Matt & Julie danced to "One Call Away". If you don't remember from their Engagement Session, Matt & Julie lived apart in the beginning of their relationship: Matt in Norfolk and Julie in Richmond. Julie told us that she always heard that song when she was driving to visit Matt in Norfolk! Their Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dances were also very beautiful to witness. Dinner and dessert was delicious! They had cupcakes from Pearls Cupcake Shoppe and ice cream sandwiches from Nightingale! Everyone danced it all off on the dance floor, it was such a fun group!
Venue/Catering: Willow Oaks Country Club
Flowers: Vogue Flowers & Gifts
Bride's Gown: Unique Bridal Auburn, Maggie Sottero Designs
Groom's attire: Alton Lane
HMUA: Rustique Salon & Spa (Joy)
Stationary: Basic Invite
Dessert: Pearl's Cupcake Shoppe and Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches
Officiant: Jeff Fehn
DJ: Cam Dinunzio
Fredericks Photo & Films is a Virginia-based wedding photographer and filmmaker duo committed to capturing every detail of your wedding day.


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Rest of Greece
Rest of Greece Properties
750.000,00 €
Land / Rest of Greece
Reference: IOPAXO1
Plot of 1.5 acres with spectacular views around Gaios, Paxos town.
Land Size:
6186 sq. m.
Buildable Area:
240 sq. m.
0,00 €
Land / Rest of Greece
Reference: IOPAXO2
Plot of 3,270 sqm for sale on the island of Paxos, 500 metres from the beach with wonderful views of the Paxos coast and Ionian Sea.
Land Size:
3270 sq. m.
Distance to Corfu Town:
2 Km
Nearest Beach:
0,5 Km


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7 years • Edited
10th April 2013
Trust agree deal in court to buy Pompey
League One Portsmouth are on the verge of salvation after administrators of the club struck a late deal with Portpin for the sale of Fratton Park.
A takeover by the Pompey Supporters' Trust can now be completed after the club spent 14 months in administration. Their takeover is conditional on taking control of Fratton Park which was owned by the club's major creditor Portpin.
Portpin, led by Balram Chainrai, claimed they were owed £12m by the club and held Portsmouth's home as security. The PST had offered £3m for the ground but with Portpin unwilling to sell at that price, administrators BDO went to the High Court to force the sale.
But it did not get that far, with an agreement reached out of court between administrators and Portpin, thought to be a figure of £3m plus add-ons. It means the fans' group can now go ahead with their purchase of Fratton Park and BDO can start the process of finally bringing the club out of administration.
"It's fantastic, it's exactly the news we wanted. It's really exciting," PST chairman Ashley Brown told Sky Sports. "It's taken a lot longer than we wanted but in the end we got the result we wanted. It's brilliant news, we're over the moon. "Of course we believed it was possible otherwise we would not have put so much effort into it."There have been times where we thought we would definitely do it and times where we thought we wouldn't. "Recently we've been very bullish, we've kept at it and we were right to as we've brought it home. "The belief kept us going, we knew we were the right answer for the club and we all knew that we had to keep plugging away at what we wanted to achieve. "This moment should be something special for all fans, not just Pompey. This should give a belief of what is achievable. "We like to say we are the biggest community club in the country and we hope other clubs will follow. "This club now has a very bright future. It is not going to be easy. We're going down to League Two but we have to accept that and use it as an excuse to rebuild."
Administrator at BDO Trevor Birch added: "I'm completely relieved. My reaction is that - relief that's is all finally over. "It's taken quite a bit out of me personally. It's been a very difficult and complex case. "It's been hugely frustrating, but at the end of the day it's all been worth it and Pompey are alive and kicking."
The PST have raised around £2m in pledges with fans' donating £1,000 each to save the club. They are also backed by several High Net Worth individuals, who also support the club, and they have bankrolled the Hampshire outfit for several months now. One of those HNW's is Iain McInnes and he will become chairman of the club as and when the PST takeover is complete.
It marks the end of several torturous years for a club that has been in administration twice in three years and suffered relegation from the Premier League to the Championship and now League One. With another 10-point penalty on the way, a further relegation to League Two is expected.
Birch will now start the process of bringing the club out of administration, which is expected to be completed on 22 April.


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I have watched zero new TV, is any of it any good?
OMG I want to post and interact with you guys SO BAD and I just have nothing to say. What would YOU like to talk about? Any burning questions or topics? Lay it on me. It's that or next time I spam you with googled pictures of puppies.


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Have you outsourced your business travel to a partner that you no longer feel in true partnership with? With the evolving needs that companies develop and the constant pressure to meet financial goals, perhaps your company has outgrown or is misaligned with its current travel management company. To aid you in your search for the right partner, here are the key points to focus on.
Detail your travel spending:
- How much do you spend on Travel & Expenses (T&E) annually and quarterly?
- Air/Hotel/Car: Break down international vs. domestic, total trips and spending, plus expected fluctuations
- Where are your employees traveling and how long are they staying?
- Do you have a formal travel policy? Are employees currently compliant with it?
- Could you track down your travelers quickly in a natural disaster or crisis situation?
- What are your company's projections in growth & revenue? And how will travel spending align with that growth?
- What is your company's average number of days in advance for purchasing airline tickets prior to travel? How does it compare with other companies of similar size in your industry?
- What types of reporting would your leadership find valuable?
Could you track down your travelers quickly in a natural disaster or crisis situation?
Identify objectives for your company:
• Cost Savings: What are the savings goals and expectations, and are they realistic? Are your company's negotiated rates comparable to others with similar spending?
• Partner Up: Determine if the partner belongs to any beneficial travel networks. You'll appreciate the opportunity to choose from a large network of suppliers.
• Travel Experience Improvement: Does the potential partner offer any special benefits or perks such as airline status or upgrades, hotel amenities, car vendor status upgrades, etc. which could improve your travelers' experience?
• Technology: To maximize travelers' productivity on the road, solutions have to be mobile-ready.
• Challenges: Are you using your travel spending data to its maximum potential?
• Improve Productivity of Employees while Traveling: How can a well-planned trip improve productivity?
• Safety & Security: Are your people staying at reputable locations that protect guests' personal security? And, do employees travel with sensitive intellectual property on their devices?
• Locating Travelers: How can you help a stranded employee if you can't find her? Better to plan for the unexpected before you're tested by it.
• Compliance: How can you improve your staff's compliance rate to the travel policy to nearly 100%?
Locate relevant Information:
• T&E reports
• Corporate credit card data
• Itinerary databases for geographic patterns
• Contracted/negotiated discounts & rates with suppliers and any usage/savings reports
• Airlines: soft dollar program details and ROI, plus any elite loyalty members
Request information about their company:
• How does your company's size and travel spending rank within their customer base?
• Do they have clients with similar needs? What lessons have they learned from implementing a managed travel program with a company like yours?
• Can they provide references from existing users?
• Who's responsible for the program's success?
• Are you in agreement as to how to measure success?
What lessons have they learned from implementing a managed travel program with a company like yours?
At Travel Leaders Group, we understand that every company is different and we've got years of experience customizing solutions that make business travel as seamless and cost-effective as possible. Travel Leaders Group can help you transition from your previous agency with our proven change management plan. We're ready to deploy our travel fulfillment services anytime and can help you roll out the training and orientation your employees will need. Our analysts and travel specialists are continually searching for new ways to lower costs, demonstrate ROI and save valuable time.


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Travelers love us, and the feeling is mutual
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Peace, silence, and nothing but nature all around you. How great does that sound for a great holiday?
In most cases, people tend to think that meditation is just a procedure of clearing the mind from stressful thoughts. However, it is essential to understand that meditation goes well beyond that and among its abundant benefits, there's an improved sex life!
In need of some "me time"? Meditation has gained popularity over the last years, and with good reason. In these fast-paced and noisy times, it offers a moment of silence and a powerful soul searching tool.
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"The flexibility and choice was fantastic."
"You have your own house to sleep in and relax, one day is silence-day"
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Each school has monthly events to serve their local community. Please visit each school's website for a complete listing of up to date calendar events
AK Martial Arts and Fitness
6120 Innovation Way
RealFit4Life Building
Bressi Ranch Carlsbad California
12 weeks of camp to serve the Carlsbad, Oceanside, San Marcos and Vista Communities! AK Martial Arts & Fitness has award winning themed camps that make them the BEST camp location in North County San Diego!
Water Park, Legoland and Alga Norte Park day excursions are planned. Laser tag, light saber training, Nerf dart tag, pizza parties and much more! Click here to find out why we were voted one of the best camps in San Diego by Red Tricycle!


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Katsu Kaishu Memorial Museum
The museum is an audiovisual style museum featuring artefacts from Katsu Kaishu's life such as seals, letters, and formal clothing on display.
The museum is an audiovisual style museum featuring artefacts from Katsu Kaishu's life such as seals, letters, and formal clothing on display.
This museum will introduce the history of the local area whilst celebrating the relationship between Katsu Kaishu and Ota City.
Held annually in early February (typically on the 3rd), Setsubun is a custom that marks the official start of spring according to the Japanese lunar calendar.
Ikegami Honmonji Oeshiki Festival is one of Tokyo's most famous and memorable festivals, with a history dating back more than 730 years. The festival celebrates the anniversary of the death of famous Buddhist teacher and saint Nichiren. Oeshiki celebrations to honor Nichiren, founder of the Nichiren school of Buddhism, occur around Japan in mid-October, but the [...]
The annual Haneda Matsuri, or Haneda Festival, is held on the last week of July every year.
Summer in Japan is festival (matsuri) season, which means fireworks, dancing, street food, and plenty of colorful yukatas!
Kamata is a district within Ota City in Tokyo's southeastern side, once a trendy and fashionable area famous for housing the Shochiku film studio
Seven Lucky Gods in Japan are believed to bring fortune and happiness, and its origins date back to early 15th century.
Ota City, a lesser-known area situated in the southeast of Japan's capital, is home to a number of highly photogenic historical shrines and temples, lush nature, and some rather unusual streets.
Kugano-yu is a public bath famous for its natural black hot springs which contains highly concentrated carbonic water.


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FLAME THROWN OUT OF GAS EJECTOR (ledger title) [Main]
Jaar: 1917
Speelduur: 19 mins
Beschrijving: I. Training exercises of a British assault on German trenches, covered by smoke shells. The equipment, tactics and terrain are consistent with the Flanders offensive, Western Front, 1917.II. A lorry-mounted 13-pounder anti-aircraft gun fires out to sea. The crew wear gas masks. The firing finishes and the gun drives off. Possibly Western Front, 1916-1918.III. A British demonstration of gas warfare on the Western Front, showing methods of releasing gas, techniques of placing gas cylinders in trenches, anti-gas drill and the correct way to wear the large box respirator, 1916. Includes a close-up of a bottle marked 'Chloropicrin', a vomiting agent and lachrymator (tear gas).IV. A British soldier in a flame-proof suit demonstrates a portable flame-thrower, probably 1917.
Trefwoorden: EFG1914 / World War I / British Army / training, British military - combat: [+] / combat, British - artillery bombardment / equipment, British military - personal: gasmask (small box respirator) / weapons, British - gun [AA]: 13-pounder / weapons, British - CBW: gas / training, British military - weapons: gas / training, British military - specialist: anti-gas / society, British military - precautionary / equipment, British military - personal: gasmask (large box respirator) / training, British military - weapons: flamethrower / weapons, British - CBW: flamethrower / 01/3(4-15).7 / 01/3(4-15) / 01/3(4-15).5 / 01/3(4-15).7 (?) / Belgium / World War, 1914-1918 -- Belgium / France / World War, 1914-1918 -- France / Instruction / Chemical Warfare
Provider: Imperial War Museums
Rechten: In Copyright / Imperial War Museums
Kleur: Black & White
Sound: Without sound
Type document :


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It happens often. Someone comes along and explains a concept that advertising, marketing, and PR agencies have been instinctively doing from the very beginning. But now, it has a name. Now, it's a trend. And once it becomes a trend, what was once a simple idea gets misused and overused. The subtlety is lost to trend-obsessed agencies.
Newsjacking is such an idea. Newsjacking is a tactic where a brand leverages breaking news events to generate attention. The example that gets thrown around most often is Oreo during the black out at the 2013 Superbowl. Oreo tweeted an image of a single Oreo cookie in the spotlight, surrounded by darkness: "Power out? No problem. You can still dunk in the dark." This Oreo tweet had thousands of retweets and favorites. People loved Oreo's ability to create such a timely message. Since then, more digital agencies have been watching and waiting for the right news story to come along which they can piggyback onto.
David Meerman Scott is the self-described "founder of the newsjacking movement." He's a great author, and I recommend his book The New Rules of Marketing & PR, but the idea of creating content in a timely fashion that leverages current events isn't new. Instead, Scott in his book lays out the concept in a great and compelling way. He goes deeper into how newsjacking works in a digital environment and why timing is absolutely everything. The problem is all the people who didn't read the book and didn't attend the conference who are jumping on the newsjacking bandwagon—to some truly dreadful outcomes.
Newsjacking goes wrong when the writer is tone-deaf to the news that's breaking. For example, during Hurricane Sandy, Sears tweeted a chipper reminder that people could buy "generators, air mattresses, and more" all at their local Sears store. Urban Outfitters informed shoppers: "This storm blows (but free shipping doesn't)!" Then, Gap chimed in: "All impacted by #Sandy, stay safe! We'll be doing lots of Gap.com shopping today. How about you?"
The most cringe-inducing example might be from Team Work Online who tried to turn the disappearance of Malaysian Airlines 370 into a promotional opportunity. "Malaysian Airlines 370 has vanished. Do you feel like employers can't find you? Let's get your 'black box' engaged. Let's start the 'pings.' Here are some tips on how to get noticed in a very crowded job market."
The key is to be timely without being crass, to be in-the-know without being in-the-way. Here are some tips for leveraging current events and not being a jerk about it.
Tip 1: Stay away from tragedy
There's no way this ends well. If there's been a horrible event, you can tweet to offer your condolences. You can extend your thoughts and prayers to the friends and families. But then, please do not follow-up with a coupon or a reminder about your weekend sale. It's completely insensitive.
Tip 2: Be timely or leave it alone
The whole point of newsjacking is to respond in a timely manner. It requires digital marketers able to move quickly to get approval, to create and upload the content. Posting a week later simply doesn't help your cause. You need to be vigilant with what's trending in the news. In some instances, you can anticipate newsjack-worthy moments: elections, awards shows, festivals, sporting events, and anything else that has captured our collective attention.
Tip 3: Keep it simple
Oreo's newsjacking worked because it was simple. (The power is out at the Super Bowl. You can still eat an Oreo in the dark. Done.) If you're trying too hard to make a connection between your brand and the relevant trending event, then it may be better to leave it alone. Fortunately, trending news events are happening constantly. The more you look out for them, the more likely you are to identify what works.
Newsjacking is about being opportunistic. And yet, opportunities pose a risk if they are poorly timed or poorly executed. Good agencies have always been able to respond with the right message at the right time.
In the digital space, the right time could literally be in real time.


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Tourette syndrome – This rare disorder of movement was named for the French neurologist Gilles de la Tourette, who first described this disorder in 1885. A tic disorder characterized by the presence of chronic vocal and motor tics, it is likely based on differences in or damage to the basal ganglia of the brain.
Tourette syndrome usually emerges between the ages of 6 and 18 and is somewhat more common in people with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, or an autistic spectrum disorder than in the general population. Tics may be minor and trifling or be major and debilitating. Infections, particularly those with streptococcus, can sometimes initiate or exacerbate Tourette syndrome. Emotional distress and stress also appear to influence the frequency of tics. People with this disorder tend to have an impulsive, quick, and frequently humorous disposition. Some, particularly those with co-morbid health-issues, experience episodes of rage that are difficult to control.
The diagnosis of Tourette syndrome is by clinical observation. There is no laboratory test for the disorder.
What are the Symptoms of Tourette Syndrome?
Repetitive tics usually of head and neck- sometimes of arms, legs and trunk. Involuntary noises develop as the disease progresses. One of the characteristics of TS is a waxing and waning of symptoms. Tics can be worse on one day and may disappear for weeks, or months. The goal is to prolong the symptomless time. The tics and noises are symptoms of changes in the body.
Finding triggers for TS is very complex. It is sometimes difficult to separate one potential cause from another. Some possibilities:
- Environmental stimuli. The TS sufferer's nervous system is hypersensitive or hyper-excitable.
- Allergic reactions. The intensity and type of symptoms can be determined by the type of trigger. Certain foods might be the culprit for some TS sufferers- mainly dairy, artificial colors, preservatives and common allergy-inducing foods. MSG and aspartame are common offenders. It might not always be the actual food but certain ingredients. The TS sufferer might tolerate home-made ice cream but not commercial one. There is a percentage of those with TS who experience at least one food exposure that bothers them.
- Stress and thought process. Stress, anxiety, excitement and fatigue can trigger or aggravate the symptoms.
- Environmental toxins in air and water. What we breathe, drink, smell, touch or come otherwise in contact with can have an influence on the frequency and severity of the symptoms. Drink filtered water (not bottled in plastic), and keep an air purifier in the house.
Diet and Lifestyle
People with Tourette Syndrome benefit from a diet low in carbohydrates with an emphasis on protein and healthy fats. Keeping blood sugar level is crucial to minimize tics, so small meals every 3-4 hours is the most beneficial. In the best case scenario, grains should be eliminated with vegetables and fruits being the source of carbohydrates. Due to many environmental sensitivies, people with Tourettes should aim to consume organic when possible.
Home should be toxins free to reduce the level of sensitivity to the environment. Record keeping can help in finding the culprits. One has to keep good records for about two months to see if one can find a connection between the symptoms and aggravating factors. We want to be sure we eliminate any possible offenders.
One should make notes on the occurrence or state of tics at regular times during the day In addition one has to ask the following questions: Was there a new shampoo? Was the lawn in the park sprayed? Was the carpet cleaned? What snacks were offered after the baseball game? What was the weather like? This is a win – win situation, since a healthier lifestyle and a controlled environment are best for overall health.
Tourette Syndrome could be a result of too much glutamate being produced in the body, as outlined here. The disorder is commonly associated with a variety of comorbidities including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), school problems, anxiety, and depression. If this is the case, supporting GABA and potential deficiencies for the calming neurotransmitters should be the focus.
Vitamin A, D and omega-3's play a major role in helping modulate the neurotransmitters.
Magnesium deficiency shows up as a muscle twitch and spasm.
B-vitamins are best taken as a complex for optimal balance and absorption. B12, folate and B6 in particular are important for calming the body
Vitamin C helps modulate dopamine and norepinephrine, calming the body from stress.
Zinc is very important for healthy GABA levels.


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Amazon has reported its earnings for the second quarter of 2012, with revenue growing 29% to $12.83 billion, but operating profit and net profit declining to $107 million and $7 million respectively. Amazon's operating margin reduced to less than 1% in the last quarter.
Amazon's cash reserves (cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities) declined to around $5 billion by the end of Q2 2012.
Amazon generated close to $4.12 billion from its Media business, and $8.16 billion from its Electronics and general merchandise business. The remainder was generated from sources like AWS and other miscellaneous activities. Media revenues grew at nearly 13%, while EGM revenues grew at a scorching 38%.
Interestingly, all of Amazon's top 10 selling items were digital products — Kindle, Kindle books and accessories, which suggest a clear trend.
Bezos seems to be very optimistic about Amazon Prime. Here's his official statement on one of Amazon's major revenue engines:
"Amazon Prime is now the best bargain in the history of shopping – that is not hyperbole," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "We successfully launched Prime seven years ago with free unlimited two-day shipping on one million items. The price of annual membership was $79. Since then, Prime selection has grown to 15 million items. We've also added 18,000 movies and TV episodes available for unlimited streaming. And we've added the Kindle Owners' Lending Library – borrow 170,000 books for free with no due dates – it even includes all seven Harry Potter books. What hasn't changed since we launched Prime? The price. It's still $79. We're very grateful to our Prime members, and thank them whole-heartedly for the business and for the word-of-mouth that has made this program grow."
via Amazon – SEC


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The heart of 5S Workplace Organizational Consulting is the systematic identification and elimination of waste. We do this by using 5S principles to define value-added versus non-value-added activity and to establish a link between practical problem solving and the 5S process.
Create a Sustainable Business
The best organizations are the ones that can turn chaos into order and turn disparate parts into a system that prizes speed and efficiency. Consider the NASCAR pit crew. Anytime a car pulls in, a crew of eight people leap over the wall, change four tires, fill the gas tank, and clean the windshield in 13-15 seconds. Any more time can cost a race. In a high-pressure, loud situation, they succeed with planning, training, and most importantly, organization. Everything is in its right place, ready to go. This is the model for your business. This is why 5S Workplace Organizational Consulting from Incito can give you the order and stability you need to create a sustainable business.
Understanding 5S Organizational Consulting
Every workplace is going to be full of waste and redundancy. You might not think that physical obstacles can actually make a difference when it comes to planning, but they can. Going through wasteful processes, being unsure of where to put a document, or who to send it to, or what room files go in, can be a daily drag on your team and one that distracts from your long-term goals.
At Incito Consulting, we work with you to develop a plan that makes your workplace efficient and free from waste. It's a matter of evaluating your entire organization and using our years of expertise to give you the tools you need to create a working plan. We're your partners in the process, using the time-tested 5S p.
The heart of 5S Workplace Organizational Consulting is the systematic identification and elimination of waste. We do this by using 5S principles to define value-added versus non-value-added activity and to establish a link between practical problem solving and the 5S process:
- Sort (Seiri) – Organization: Eliminate unnecessary items and materials.
- Straighten (Seiton) – Orderliness: A place for everything and everything in its place.
- Shine (Seiso) – Cleanliness: Eliminating the source of waste and contamination.
- Standardize (Seiketsu) – Standardized cleanup: A procedure to maintain and monitor the first 3 Ss
- Sustain (Shitsuke) – Discipline: Train, educate, and change habits while relentlessly following the previous four steps.
Are you ready to explore how a Gemba Walk can help your management team get more in touch with what's really happening in your business? Contact Incito Consulting today to arrange for a personalized consultation.
A Partner From Beginning to End
As we move through the day-to-day, even some of the best-laid plans can fall to the wayside, and before you know it, you have the same wasteful procedures and same irritating clutter (imagine a time-lapse of a teenager's just-cleaned bedroom to picture how clutter can quickly creep back in). That's why we don't just evaluate your organization — we emphasize sustainability. To implement the sustain deployment model, we institute reaction and recovery plans, failure resolution ideas, and a 5S audit process to guide you, and we partner with you to see it through.
If there is waste in your organization, it is blocking you from reaching your highest potential, hurting day-to-day activity, and preventing you from meeting your long-term goals. You may never need the speed of a pit crew, but our 5S Workplace Organizational Consulting keeps you fast, focused, and ready for the next lap.
Are you ready to explore how Incito's team of experienced lean experts can help your company upgrade your organizational management process? In a fast-moving economy, you can't afford to have a disorganized office and process slow you down. Connect with Incito Consulting today to find out how to be as fast as your vision.
Want to learn more?
Schedule a consultation.
About how Incito can help transform your business and tackle your most
important strategic challenges.


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Playing with food pays at Long & Short, The GastroBar
Long & Short, The GastroBar at Intercontinental experiments with street food and tries serve something radical. It succeeds, on most counts
There are three things that matter in property: location, location, location'. The quote is often attributed to Lord Harold Samuel, one of UK's biggest property tycoons. Samuel's theory can be applied to hotels and restaurants as well -- who would want to go to an upscale restaurant at a barely accessible spot? For its top-notch location, Long & Short, The GastroBar in the Intercontinental Hotel at Marine Drive scores a brownie point. The restaurant is styled as a comfortable, yet hip living room. The walls are covered with pictures of celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan and Sachin Tendulkar, amongst others. There is also that unmistakable sign of Mumbai life -- the dabbas and the dabbawallahs. There is outdoor seating out on the balcony which overlooks the sea, for a cool evening and cooler drink.
Nursing a cucumber and rosemary cocktail and a blood orange cocktail, we order the Flaky Empanadas (Rs 400), which is a cross between the puff pastry and short crust, served with chilli vinegar mayo dip. Soft and light as a feather, the Empanadas turn out to be the perfect way to start the meal. Next comes Spicy House Special (Rs 595) and Chiang Mai Crisp with roasted chicken flatbreads (Rs 655). The base of the flatbread is so thin and crispy that it snaps off the moment you sink your teeth into it -- almost like a fresh biscuit. The slivers of chicken in the Chiang Mai Crisp, are sauteed with Thai curry paste, which gives the flatbread its unique taste. The Bombay Masala Club (Rs 465) toasted brioche, spicy onion tomato salsa and spiced potato, slathered with melted cheese evokes memories of standing huddled with friends at school canteen, sharing a sandwich.The 'Chaapli' kebab bun (Rs 545), too, impresses with its finely minced lamb kebab, pickled onion and nimbu.
The Paneer Masala Biryani (Rs 550) with paneer bhurjee in a novel twist, however, is a bit of a letdown. The dish tastes more like jeera rice than biriyani and is devoid of the taste of any real masala. Our disappointment is curbed by the Green Apple Crumble Deconstruct (Rs 385), where a piece of green apple spirals around tiny apples brewed in cinnamon, ice-cream and candied walnuts. The dish emerges as the undisputed winner. The Peach Melba Cheese Cake (Rs 385) rests on a bed of Oreo cookie crust with a poached peach on top -- delicious, yet only a second favourite.
For those looking to visit a classy restaurant for some drinksand comfort food, the GastroBar is the perfect choice. We cannot rate the experience as it was a preview
Food: Experimental
Service: Prompt
Ambiance: Laid-back
At: Intercontinental Hotel, Marine Drive
Call: 39879999
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OBU Alums Perform On Campus
January 24, 2007
Danny and DeAnna Calhoun have been performing together as a two-piano team for the last 10 years. The Oklahoma Baptist University graduates will perform at their alma mater Friday, Jan. 26, at 7:30 p.m., in Raley Chapel's Yarborough Auditorium.
The concert will feature works of Camille Saint-Saens, Manuel Infant, and a collection of some of the Calhouns' own hymn arrangements.
The Calhouns received their degrees in piano performance. Danny earned his master's degree at the University of North Texas, and DeAnna earned her master's degree in piano performance from the University of Oklahoma.
Both have been presenters at music festivals and auditions throughout Oklahoma. They are members of Music Teachers National Association, Oklahoma Teachers Association, and Music Teacher's National Association.
The Calhouns are members at Friendship Baptist Church in Owasso, Okla., and maintain a private piano studio.


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Rick's Auto Service Center was founded in 1987. At Rick's customers are treated with compassion and care. Alex who has been running the shop since 2008 carried out the Rick's Auto tradition of customer satisfaction, honesty, and integrity. He is well known in the automotive industry and has been servicing vehicles in Garland for twenty five years. Our top mechanic Cliff, has 30 years worth of mechanical experience on all makes and models, and he is certified by ASE Since the 80s and MIDD for many years. All other mechanic have been trained right here at Rick's Auto by Alex himself!
Our body shop is equipped with state of the art Paint Booth, Frame machine, and PPG Mixing System. We offer repairs from Rust repair, wielding, PDR, and many other means to make your vehicle look brand new from the dealer! We make sure all paint / body work is at Rick's level of perfection with a quality check on every car.
Whether you're coming in for a routine inspection or a repair service, we promise that you will be completely satisfied with our work. We provide 12-month warranties with all of our mechanic services and a lifetime warranty for all paint and or body services for your peace of mind. We're committed to providing a stress-free experience to both new and returning customers.
301 N. First St, Garland, T 75040, US Texas
There is no need to call ahead or make an appointment, just come on in!
If you've been in an accident, or your vehicle has damage that you would like repaired by the very best in the business, simply call us! Our team works side-by-side with leading insurance providers to complete a free computerized CCC estimate and accurately assess any damage before we begin making repairs.
After your vehicle is evaluated, it moves into the body shop, where we remove all parts requiring separate repair or replacement, and perform body and structural repair work. Once body work is complete, your vehicle begins the painting and polish process. First, our expert painters utilize computer technology to find the exact color match based on manufacturer codes before applying fresh paint. Your vehicle is then polished and prepared for the next step!
Your vehicle returns to the body shop where it is reassembled with lamps, air conditioning, grills, doors, and other parts involved in your repair. A trip to Rick's isn't complete until we treat your vehicle to a complete wash and vacuum. This final step ensures your vehicle will look pristine upon pick up. Lastly, Our owner does a quality check. This means he makes sure everything looks brand new, clean, and every thing is where it is suppose to be!
No matter how you are going about your Body repairs, We can help you! If you are paying out of pocket we will work with you to get the price you can afford. If you are working with an insurance company we can help with that as well!
Every Body / Paint Repair that enter's our shop starts with an estimate. This assures the pricing is okay with the vehicle owner and or the insurance company they are working with. Why we use CCC is simple, Every OEM dealer, After Market dealer, and Re-manufacturer uses CCC. So we get the cheapest prices and see everything that they see! It helps us work fast and smart with these companies to get you the right parts at a cheap price in a fast time!
Dealing with the crash, your own or the other parties insurance company, or injury will all take a toll on you. That is why we pride ourselves in being a helpful hand to you in this stressful situation! We can and will work with ALL insurance companies, calling and emailing them daily to get the best price for you to cover all your ailments in a reasonable time! We can also help you with getting extra help from these companies like, a rental car, hospital fee's, and any other add on's!
Every Body / Paint Repair done at Rick's has a Limited-Lifetime Warranty! This means as long as it is related to the repairs.
Here at Rick's we have PPG mixing system. PPG's global color database of over two million formulas can be quickly accessed by our PaintManager software program. We have 100% color match. All our body and paint jobs have Life Time Warranty.
Our body shop is also equipped with a Hunter Measuring System and Star-A-Liner / Cheetah Frame Machines Offer The Highest Value In Quality And Affordability. Made in USA.
The heated downdraft paint booth is a full-sized paint booth that is designed to fit any car or truck. Fresh air is heated by the direct-fired air make up unit and pushed down through a full-plenum filtered ceiling giving the best paint job possible.
A/C Belt
A/C Compressor
A/C Condenser Core
A/C Diagnostic
A/C Evaporator
A/C Leak Detection
Air Up Tires
Ball joints
Before Purchas Check
CV Axle Replacement
Charge A/C
Check Fluids
Coolant System
Electrical Repair
Engine Mounts
Frame Repair and Uni-Body
Fuel Pump Diagnostics
Fuel System
Fuel System Repair / Replacement
Head Gaskets
Ignition Coils
Intake Gasket
Leaking Hoses,Wires,Caps,Rotors,Coil Overs
O2 Sensor
Oil Changes
Oil Pan Gasket
Serpentine Belts
State Inspection
Sway Bar
Sway Bar End Links
Sway bar bushings
Timing Belt
Tire Rod Ends
Tire Rod Repair
Tire Rods
Transmission Fluid and Filter Replacement
Tune Ups
Vacuum Leak Repairs
Water Pump
Water Pump Belts
Wheel Bearing and Hub
Wheel Cylinders
Other wheel alignment machines don't come close to matching the accuracy and precision of our hunter laser wheel alignment machine. we guarantee that your vehicles alignment will come out perfect every time.
We read and define all codes with the help of this top of the line OBD II reader. Autel is different then any other OBD II because it has a ton more features to find any and all problems with any and all vehicles manufactured after 1996!
With our State Certified State Inspection machine we can properly and legally inspect all vehicles manufactured after 1996. This top of the line set up helps us with your speedy inspection and printout!
If your car or truck is stranded don't be afraid to give us a call to pick you and your vehicle up no matter where you are! We make sure to give all of our customers fair prices on all of their towing needs!
We have been working with Chubb's Towing since the day we have opened. We assure you they will get you and your vehicle to our shop safely and in a timely manner with their team of trust worthy and skilled towers with their state of the art flat bed trucks!
Call Chubb's Towing Directly at (972) 771-4451
Make sure to have these in mind to tell the representative: Current location, phone number, full name, year make and model, color of your vehicle, and your license plate number.
Here at Rick's Auto we always want each and every one of our customers to have a fun and safe experience even in our shuttles! That is why our shuttle drivers Cliff and Sami all have the necessary means to get you to and from our shop safe and sound.
We will take you to and from our shop in our Rick's Auto Service Smart Cars! Our Smart cars have cold a/c nice speakers for any kind of music you would like to hear if any, adjustable seats, electrical windows, and cup holders. With these Smart Cars we assure you you will have a smooth and quiet drive thanks to their eco friendly engines!
Depending on the rental the the price can range anywhere from $10 to $40 a day. With most insurance companies, they cover the price of rental. We have 5 vehicles for rent, all come with: Cold A/C, Power Windows, Power Steering, Adjustable Seats, Nice Speakers, and Radio! Some come with: Power seats, Trunk Space, Back Seats! All Rentals will receive a full detail before you receive them, this means they will be spotless inside and out with a full tank of gas!
In order for you to rent a car from us you must, Have a valid drivers license, valid insurance, and finally be 18 years of age or older. When returning the rental it must have the same amount of gas it left with or you will be charged. You are under oath to tell us any and all damage that happened to the rental in your possession if any. Finally, we give rentals to big jobs only, I.E insurance claims, engine swaps, transmission jobs, and any other job where you will be without a car for days. Any small job you will just be shuttled to and from the shop for free!
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One of the reasons I wanted to go back to Portland was to sketch with the Portland Urban Sketchers, partly because I have at least met several of them before, and partly because I love their work on USk PDX. We met at Floyd's Coffee in Old Town, and I got a breakfast burrito and sketched People. I traditionally only sketch People when those People are also Sketchers – it's like it's 'alright'. Still, I need the practise, and I've been doing a lot more of it lately. Anyway, it was good to catch up with some familiar faces – Linda, Alanna, Kalina, Vicky, Pascale – and meet some more, such as Greg (who I actually drew in Lisbon but never met), Deb, Andrea, Marta, Marco, Cassie, Angelika, Gary (hope I've not missed anyone out!) – and of course, to watch them sketch. One thing I know about myself is that I don't tend to sketch quite as much when I am talking, but when I meet other sketchers I do love to talk. About pens, mostly. And Magneto.
After Floyd's I took a brief interlude to sketch in the rain (see the sketch at the bottom, drawn by Skidmore Fountain in very wet conditions), before rejoining the group at Old Town Pizza, an interesting old place full of things to look at at draw. It was a fun afternoon with lots of conversation, and I am glad to have gone. A shame we couldn't have all sketched outside, but the rain really was pouring, and it was nice and friendly inside.
Here's to the next time!


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by Matt Slick
What is sin? Sin is breaking the Law of God. 1 John 3:4 says, "Sin is lawlessness." Sin is a transgression, an iniquity, an unrighteous act. Sin is a deviation from the will of God. It is a form of evildoing since it is in opposition to God's decrees and desires. Sin is not a merely a deficiency. It is an open rebellion and disobedience to what God has declared is right. Sin can only be properly understood in relationship to God since God is the holy one (1 Peter 1:16) and all sin is unholy. God's standard of moral perfection is what we are all obligated to obey and when we do not, we have sinned. God has revealed his moral character in the law as the standard of good and to violate that standard is sinful.
Everyone commits sin
Every person who's ever lived, except for Jesus (1 Pet. 2:22), commits sin. This is because when Adam sinned in the garden of Eden, we inherited his sinful nature. This is why the Bible says that sin entered the world through one man, Adam. (Rom. 5:12) Furthermore, we are by nature children of wrath (Eph. 2:3). In other words, because we are fallen in our sin natures and we deserve damnation. But God is merciful in that he sent Jesus to cleanse us of our sins.
Again, what is sin?
Sin is doing that which is contrary to the revealed will of God. It's plain and simple. If God says "Do not lie" and you lie, then you have broken His law and sinned. When you sin, you offend God because it is against his character. It is wrong to lie because God cannot lie (Titus 1:2). It is wrong to steal because God cannot steal, etc. Sin goes against the holy character of God. How do we know? Because of the Law.
Sin and the Law
The Law, then, is a standard of moral purity. The Old Testament contains the Law of God. It is a perfect standard because it is God's standard. When we fail to keep the law, we sin. When we sin, we offend God. This offense against God results in a judgment. Laws are laws because they have penalties. There is no law without a penalty. Therefore, breaking God's law brings judgment which is separation from God. "But your sins have made a separation between you and your God," (Isaiah 59:2). And, "the wages of sin is death . . . " (Rom. 6:23). So, to sin, to break God's law, results in judgment. The judgment is known as damnation which is the righteous judgment of God upon the sinner. If God did not judge the sinner, then He is not upholding His holiness; and he would be allowing sinners to go unpunished.
Sin and Repentance
To repent means to turn from sin. Repentance is a heartfelt conviction to turn from wrong doing and do what is right. This is part of what it means to be a Christian. We are not called to continue in wrongdoing. We are called to repent, to stop sinning, to do what is right and honor God. Though we are not saved by our repenting, our repentance is something that we do when we forsake sin because we are trusting in Christ who died to cleanse us from our sins (1 John 1:9).
Jesus died to forgive us our sin
Of course, Jesus came to take our place and die for our sins (1 Pet. 2:24). This means that Jesus bore our sin in His body on the cross and paid for them. He took the judgment upon himself. This further means that anyone who trusts in what Jesus did on the cross will have his sins removed; he will be saved from God's future judgment.
So, replying to the question "What is sin?" is best answered by saying that it is breaking God's law. All people have sinned. Therefore, all people are under God's judgment - except for those who've trusted in God's provision to escape that judgment.
Where are you? Are you in the place of God's judgment or of salvation in Christ?


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"You thought… the magic crystals are all for Giant?"
The old witch snuck a glance at Giant, who was saying something, and answered Leylin under her breath.
"Am I wrong?" Leylin was a little astonished.
"Of course not. Even though Giant is pretty impressive, he's no rank 2 Magus. Out of this pile, he'll get at most 40% of it!" She pointed to the little mountain in the middle of the room.
"As for the rest, they'll all go to 'Boss'!" The old witch was vague.
"Boss?!" Hearing this phrase started Leylin's imagination.
Magi only respected power. For even the old witch to call someone 'Boss', this must mean that this person, Boss, was at least a rank 2 Magus, right?
"Who else? Who do you think is the one warding off the light Magi's divination magic?"
She retorted with a manic laugh.
"According to what I know, there are at least two to three dark Magi organisations like us. As for their backers, there will also be various people controlling from behind the scenes…"
As they were in a mutual alliance through the previous agreement with the potions, the old witch was evidently placing more trust in Leylin, hence she just told him some information that had been withheld from him.
"Marauding the light Magi's secret plane is definitely not carried out on a whim by the dark Magi. On the contrary, these operations are systematic and are all premeditated!"
A notion quickly flew through Leylin's mind and occupied his thoughts.
"Who knows, there might be several powerhouses behind the dark Magi domain that also have a hand in this!" Leylin grinned.
"This seems to be getting more and more interesting…"
However, this had nothing to do with Leylin. His current goal was to join in the dark Magi organisation's looting operations and obtain large amounts of resources.
Just the efforts from tonight had brought in a revenue of five to six hundred thousand magic crystals! This was obviously more convenient and faster than doing missions for the Four Seasons Garden.
Of course, the risk was no small matter and if he were to be found out, he'd be chased to the ends of the world and be killed.
This was also why every member who joined concealed their identity, and even the few leaders of the organisation had no idea of the real identities of their members.
"Alright! Collect your own share! Remember not to squander them quickly. It's better to spend them only after some time!"
"Also, after this mission, those mad dogs from the Ennea Ivory Ring Tower will definitely go around biting people blindly in a rouse to find our locations. So remember to stay low…"
Giant who was wrapped in green fog continued to explain of some matters as he waved his hands, "It's alright now, you guys can leave. Our exchange meetings must also be halted for a while, as for the concrete details it will be made known again…"
Baldy Venom Snake had had half of his face melted and the other side filled with many bumps. He was continuously combing through the black forest.
And, with a big black boa lay coiled on his body, he presented a rather horrifying appearance.
Suddenly, Baldy's face changed as he rolled to the side.
At the same time, an explosion caved in the ground on which he had previously stood. A purple flame blazed in the surroundings, creating a hundred square meter radius of charred zone.
"Blood Rogue! It must be you! Get your ass out here!" Baldy Venom Snake snarled.
A layer of stiff hair grew on his body, altering his appearance to that of a gorilla.
What he received in answer were multiple fireballs that appeared from within the shadows.
The speed of the black fireballs was incredibly quick. Before he even had the chance to react, they had reached his body and exploded in front of him.
The bald Venom Snake's chest was charred. Black hair kept falling off, and the pit of his stomach was hollowed in. There was even the piercing sound of bones breaking, and his body flew out as if he had been hit by the head of a train.
The boa that had been hung around his shoulders was immediately burnt by the flames, turning into white ashes, scattering onto the floor bit by bit.
"Such a mighty spell?" The bald Venom Snake did not even have time to lament for his precious pet. He was frightened silly by Leylin's Latent Fireball.
"This spell has to be a model that is modified by various large Magi organisation or had its might amplified. Who exactly are you?"
Venom Snake looked at Leylin who slowly walked out from the darkness, suspicions streaked across his face.
"Who I am is not important. What's important is that you will definitely die here today!" Leylin had even used his Latent Fireball, so naturally he revealed the determination to kill this baldy.
"Aren't you afraid of the organisation tracing it to you?"
Venom Snake lay on the floor as if he had lost his mobility and was not able to get up.
"I have only signed a contract not to divulge the organisation's secrets, but not one that doesn't allow me to pursue a personal vendetta against my enemies!"
Leylin waved his hands forward and countless phantom hands appeared from the void, grabbing a small tree behind the baldy and crushing it to pieces. A yellow bug was retrieved from within the tree.
*Pu!* The yellow bug was smashed into bits in Leylin's hands.
"Don't do such useless things anymore!" Leylin stepped in closer.
"You're leaving me with no choice! Second transfiguration!" The baldy bellowed.
*Crash!* In the blink of an eye, the muscles on his body grew and dense black hair grew out once again. Behind his back, two strips of flesh constantly raised, bursting out of his clothes. They turned into two furry claws.
His teeth became sharp, eyeballs completely red.
From the looks of it, he had turned into a mutated gorilla with four arms.
With the transformation of the bald Venom Snake, a strong energy wave was constantly emitted from his body.
"Activate!" Against this creature which was brandishing its fangs and claws, Leylin only smiled and chanted an incantation.
"Ding!" A crisp noise sounded and several green vines and muddy shafts emerged from the ground, turning into a prison like shape, suppressing the beast within.
"I gave you time not to let you prepare a spell, but for me to lay a trap!"
Leylin spoke leisurely, "You must have had the limbs of a powerful creature transplanted into your body to achieve such a transfiguration, huh? Moreover, it seems to be compatible with your innate defense spell…"
"A pity however that you only transplanted the forelimbs of the Vajra Gorilla. As for creatures like these, they are suppressed by the energy particles of the Earth and Plant elements…"
All this were naturally the simulations done throughout the battle by the A.I. Chip.
After adopting the A.I. Chip's suggestion Leylin completely controlled the pace of the battle. He had to admit that it all felt pretty good.
"Urghhh…" The gorilla creature in the cage continued to beat on its chest, showing the rage it was in.
Following which, many small plants and rock spears appeared from the ground within the cage, piercing through the creature's body.
"Aooo…" The gorilla continued to roar in anguish, as his entire fur coat was dyed a crimson red.
*Bang!* A large explosion sounded.
Only two furry arms remained where the black gorilla had been, and the bald Venom Snake had disappeared without a trace.
Looking at this scene, Leylin was not surprised but smiled in a satisfied manner.
"He had even used the substitution spell that can only be used once a day?"
Following which, the sound of a spirit explosion was heard. The trees parted and the old witch carried Venom Snake who had fainted in her hands.
"How is it? Is it still going smoothly?" Leylin inquired.
"Not bad. There was still an amulet on his body limited to a one-time usage that caught me by surprise!" The old witch's green eyes shone.
"This is a good opportunity since an official Magus' spirit is extremely difficult to obtain!"
"Also, you'll get half of the items here and I'll take the other half!" Leylin had already gone through the bald Venom Snake's belongings from his crippled body. In addition, He gave half of Venom Snake's sack of loot to the old witch.
He was still prepared to maintain the trust between the two of them since they were going to be collaborating for a long time.
The old witch's gaze revealed some fear while she looked at Leylin. Even though she was confident she could defeat the bald Venom Snake, she wouldn't be able to do it so easily, and definitely not in this place. Such precise pre-calculations were beyond her.
Leylin was even able to predict the opponent's escape route, and that was what shocked her the most.
"But by killing Venom Snake, aren't you afraid the organisation will…" The old witch reminded him.
"Stop trying to scare me!" Leylin laughed, not at all bothered.
"Dark Magi are just a group of indifferent, self-serving people. Why would they seek trouble with me for a dead person? Furthermore, the grudge I had with Venom Snake was apparent to the others, so who could say anything about it?"
"It seems like you have already planned everything!" The old witch looked at Leylin, her expression complicated.
Leylin smiled without a reply.
It was indeed true that he had planned to kill Venom Snake a long time ago.
There were two motives behind it. First was to establish his might! He was a newbie who had just joined the organisation, so he would definitely undergo some suppression by others. In many organisations, the bullying newbies was a form of tradition. Through such means, Leylin could quickly show his prowess as a deterrence and to protect himself.
Of course, he only dared to do such a thing within dark Magi organisations. If it were inside a light Magi organisation, no matter how powerful he was he would be beaten heavily. Who knows if he might even take the rap and be labelled as someone who had tried to sow discord amongst the unity of the light Magi?
As a result, while he was in Four Seasons Garden, Leylin had always kept a low profile and did his work without any complaints. Until now, his leader and teammates still viewed him in a positive light.
As for the second motive — which was Leylin's main objective — it was only for the benefits!
From today's operation of plundering the secret plane, Leylin managed to obtain five to six hundred thousand magic crystals. On top of that, he had also gotten Venom Snake's portion, and the total value came up to around a million, thus doubling his loot.
Wasn't Leylin's reason for joining a dark Magi organisation to obtain enough resources? Since that was his reason, why wouldn't he attack others?
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