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Blest Sunday
Meowllo and welcome to a brand new week. Of course me's startin' it off with a Blest Sunday posty. As you already know we had a pawsumly blest week and celebrated mommy's birthday. Mommy says it was so nice to see so many who don't admit their age either. But me wants to know why it is dat humans don't like to get older or admit they are but when it comes to us anipals, ya'll seem to get all beside yourself excited da older we get? You know, what's up with dat?
Anyways, we have a question fur ya'll. As ya' know mommy doesn't have any two legged non furry kids, and at this point in her life doesn't want any. Me says fank catness, cuz me likes it just like it is. You know what would me do with a non furry? Me hears they get all sticky and chase us kitties around and try to pull our tails and such. Me has a lot of furs and sure wouldn't wanna have to clean all da sticky off. And let me tell you, me may be gentle and all but pull me's tail and me will go all ninja and whacky paw ya' fur sure. (Dezi imitates her ninja moves and whacky paw- "KeeeeeYa") Anyways, me's getting' off track. Let's get back to dat question. Seems Direct TV has a new commercial and one of da lines says, "rethink havin' that second child." Now let me tell ya, mommy finds dat totally offensive and we don't even have those kind of kiddies. Da commercial's been playin' now fur over a month, so obviously nopawdy's sayin' a thing. We don't know ifin peeps just ain't payin' attention or ifin they think dat's okay. So, purrlease, weigh in on this.
In other news, fur all of ya' dat sent us e-mails askin', yes mommy is still takin' care of Buddy. Mr. W is gonna milk his rehab stay as long as he can, so he's been transferred from da hospital in Ardmore to our hospital. A few years ago they revamped our hospital and put in a rehab center fur peeps just like mr. W. After mommy told him to quit orderin' her around, he stayed mad at her fur 'bout a week and finally called and asked nicely how Buddy was doin'. No, he never pawlogized, and he never will. At some point, he'll start bossin' her around again and mommy will tell him off again and we'll start all over. It's just da way of things. Some peeps are just too stubborn to learn from their faux pas. Fancy word dat faux pas, right? MOL
We feel truly blest to have all of you in our lives. This past week was made easier because of all of you. Mommy still missed sissy and still had da sads, but your support helped ease da pain. And we are blest to have received da material blessings we had this week. And we're always blest to have your purrayers and support. Remember to take a minute today and each day to give thanks fur da blessings in your lives. You will always be in our purrayers. Me's gonna go take a nap now. Ooops, me almost furgot. Me's joinin' da Kitties Blue fur Sunday Selfies.
Till da next time…………………………………..Be Blest!!!
So what do you think about the Direct TV commercial?
Luv and Hugs and Kitty Kisses
Posted on May 29, 2016, in Blest Sunday, Sunday Selfies and tagged #RagdollCat, Blest, Blest Sunday, Dezi, Pin Art, Sunday Selfies. Bookmark the permalink. 41 Comments.
It's a pity you don't have a donate button! I'd definitely donate to this outstanding blog!
I suppose for now i'll settle for bookmarking and adding
your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to new updates and
will share this website with my Facebook
group. Chat soon! https://camillebradshaw.wordpress.com/2016/12/29/what-the-in-crowd-wont-tell-you-about-monster-truck-games/
Belated Happy Birthday to your mom, Dezi! We too have no human children, and don't know how to react to the ad! Can't say I like anyone telling me what to do, but then again…we are running out of natural resources and Mother Earth may not be able to sustain much more life soon. It's a conundrum.
Hi precious girl. I am so very thankful that I have you and Mommy as my friends. You both are always in my prayers.
I do not like that tv ad at all either. To tell you the truth I try to tune out as many ads as I can because most are offensive to me.
Love you and Mommy so very much. Hugs and kisses.


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Caltech's in depth analysis and educational programs are housed in six educational divisions and at JPL. The power this gives me as a supervisor to check designs and make comments is invaluable, this technology will increase our quality. Technology has also superior to assist kids even earlier than they've started college. The impression of rapidly advancing technology on the growing little one has seen a rise of physical, psychological and habits issues that the health and training techniques are just beginning to detect, a lot much less understand.
This has to be saved in line with the adjustments, which we see in the technology throughout us. These discussions must end in a new improved curriculum, incorporating the technological advancement, as such. Moreover, the same specialists say most communications appliances will come with voice-demand technology. In addition, technology ensures clarity, in both audio and visible systems, thus one can have the benefit of each space of communication.
A number of the most poignant criticisms of technology are present in what at the moment are thought-about to be dystopian literary classics such as Aldous Huxley 's Brave New World , Anthony Burgess 's A Clockwork Orange , and George Orwell 's Nineteen Eighty-Four In Goethe's Faust , Faust selling his soul to the devil in return for energy over the physical world is also typically interpreted as a metaphor for the adoption of commercial technology.
Additional, bureaucracies usually construct their identities around technology , turning threats to the technology into threats to the group's very essence The ensuing entities are often large, complicated, and stuffed with self-fascinated actors who search to take care of and increase their bureaucratic realms. Long Blockchain wants to discover and spend money on alternatives that use the technology that underpins bitcoin and different digital currencies, the discharge mentioned.
The technology of the process had not modified much so the plant was nearly a twin of the first section. The intent on this article is to elucidate a new technology the alcohol trade ought to be exploring as NFC technology is changing into mainstream; it's a relevant advertising and marketing software embraced by in the present day's consumers. Instructional video games and methods for young children helps them prepare for varsity and in some instances get a head begin on their schooling.

subset: commoncrawl


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Some believe change at the helm of the Alameda County District Attorney's office could be coming in the next few years. And Alameda County prosecutors, the only group of public-sector attorneys not represented by a union, made a move Tuesday intended to dampen some of their potential job insecurity.
The Alameda County Board of Supervisors voted to recognize the bargaining unit of the Alameda County Prosecutors' Association on Tuesday.
Alameda County Assistant District Attorney Jill Nerone told the board the move to consider forming a union was made, in part, to avoid job uncertainty that could arise from the future politicization of the district attorney's seat.
Unlike other attorneys under union representation at the county-level, the district attorney's office is the only one led by an elected official. "We serve at the whim of whoever earns that seat," Nerone said.
The upstart campaign of Oakland civil rights attorney Pamela Price last year put a scare into incumbent Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O'Malley. The campaign also initiated quite a bit of concern among county prosecutors over whether their potential new boss would retain their services. Price, a staunch progressive and police reformer, was clear that, if elected, she intended to clear the DA's office of O'Malley loyalists.
Price's candidacy was financially supported, through a political action committee, by billionaire progressive activist George Soros. The PAC opposed O'Malley's re-election, along with several other DAs across the country last year. The effort was to replace incumbents with candidates they believed were more progressive.
Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley acknowledged Soros in his comments Tuesday morning. "I know George Soros is targeting DAs all over the country, in some cases, unwarranted and unnecessarily, as he did in this county," he told Nerone. "So I understand why you want to unionize."
Meanwhile, rumors have persisted for months that Oakland Assemblymember Rob Bonta is quietly laying the groundwork for a run at O'Malley's seat in 2022. Bonta is termed out of the assembly in 2024.
DA Wants Alameda's Secret Recording Released
Citing growing public interest and the need for transparency, O'Malley is urging the city of Alameda to release the controversial secret recording made by its former city manager of a meeting between her and two Alameda councilmembers.
"After a thorough review, it is the opinion of the district attorney's office that there is a strong public interest in disclosing the recording," O'Malley wrote in a letter to Alameda City Attorney Yibin Chen on Oct. 22.
The DA argued that former City Manager Jill Keimach's 55-minute meeting with Councilmember Jim Oddie and Malia Vella, which was recorded without the officials' knowledge, is public record.
The secret recording was a byproduct of the fire chief hiring scandal in which Keimach said she was pressured by Oddie, Vella, and the city's firefighters union to hire a candidate backed by the union for the vacant fire chief position.
Keimach asserted the pressure was a violation of a city charter provision that prohibits interference from councilmembers in the decision-making duties of the city manager.
Oddie said Saturday that he welcomes the release of the recording. "It is illegal to tape private conversations without the knowledge and permission of all parties, and the former City Manager violated those ethics," Oddie wrote in a statement.
"It is my hope that we can all move past this to fully focus on addressing the needs and vital services for all Island families," he added. "Alamedans hold their leaders to the highest standards of transparency and conduct, which I agree with and will continue to work to earn."
County Bans Mutton-Busting
Mutton-busting is no longer allowed at Castro Valley's Rowell Ranch after the Alameda County Board of Supervisors banned the rodeo event in which young children ride sheep like a bronco. Animal-rights advocates have long argued that the event instills fear in the animals and in many cases physical trauma. It sometimes also doesn't look too fun for the kids.
"I don't believe anybody in this room is intentionally cruel to animals," said Eric Mills, the founder of Action for Animals, which has long opposed mutton-busting and other rodeo events in Alameda County. "If animals could talk, you would hear an entirely different story."
The 3-2 vote highlighted a split between county supervisors who represents parts of rural East Alameda County and those in the urban areas. Supervisors Nate Miley and Scott Haggerty voted against the ban. Both represent the agricultural areas of Castro Valley and the Tri-Valley.
Board President Richard Valle suggested Tuesday that Miley and agricultural interests in the county had stymied the ordinance from moving forward this year. "My only regret is that it's taken 12 months to get to this point," he said. Earlier this year, he appeared disturbed by videos depicting cruelty against sheep and cows at the rodeo.
Miley did not take the comment kindly, noting the ban only affects the Rowell Ranch, which is in his district. "There is a dispute whether mutton busting is a cruel treatment to animals, and until that can be reconciled, in my mind, I don't think this ordinance is appropriate," Miley said.
Haggerty followed with a similar rancorous statement. "I really hope that everybody that came down here today to talk about getting rid of mutton-busting and talking about cruelty to animals goes home and eats a salad," an irritated Haggerty said.
In Other News ...
Five people were killed in a shooting at a Halloween party in Orinda. Three died at the scene, two others later, with still more injured. The incident occurred at an AirBNB rental on Lucille Way. There had only been one homicide in Orinda over the past 15 years. Police are investigating whether the shooting is linked to murders in San Francisco four years ago, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. A ban on short-term rentals could be on the table when the Orinda City Council next meets, KGO-TV reported. ... Seven school children in Alameda have been hit by cars since September, KPIX reported. The rash of accidents has city leaders searching for solutions to the traffic problems at some busy streets near schools. ... Prisoners at Santa Rita Jail in Dublin staged a one-day hunger strike and work stoppage on Wednesday, the East Bay Times reported, to protest unsanitary living conditions. An inmate at Santa Rita also died after ingesting an unknown substance, KTVU reported. It's the eighth time this year that a prisoner at the jail has died while in custody. ...
East Bay state Sen. Nancy Skinner registered a major victory for college student athletes across the country after the NCAA announced it would allow them to be paid when their name, image, and likeness used, ESPN reported. Skinner's "Fair Pay to Play Act" bill was signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom last month. The NCAA had previously voiced strong opposition to the bill and had threatened to ban California universities from participating in championship events. ... Advocates for African American, Latino and low-income students are threatening to file a lawsuit against the 10-campus University of California system if they do not drop the use of SAT and ACT admission tests for incoming freshman, EdSource reported. Critics said the admissions tests discriminate against minorities and the poor. ...
Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash will seek a ballot measure for next year asking voters to exempt its gig-workers from the landmark AB5 bill signed into law last month, the Chron reported. The proposed statewide measure needs roughly 630,000 valid signatures to make the November 2020 ballot. ... Berkeley teachers and the Berkeley Unified School District agreed to a tentative two-year contract agreement that includes 2.5 percent raises this year and next year, KQED reported. The deal also includes another seven percent increase if Berkeley voters approve a school parcel tax next year. ... Ask and you shall receive. San Leandro's mayor is getting a pay raise, the East Bay Times reported. The San Leandro City Council approved a $15,000 pay bump for Mayor Pauline Russo Cutter. Her annual salary will be $45,000. ...
President Trump declared "no more" federal aid for California in a tweet Sunday morning, Vox reported. As fires continue to burn all over the state, Trump added, California officials had failed to heed his previous warnings last year to "clean the forest floor" of brush. ... A potentially dismal season just got worse for the Warriors. Stephen Curry broke his left hand during last night's loss to the Phoenix Suns.


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Giveaway Details
To enter the giveaway join, renew or donate by 11:59 PM on November 20th, 2019. Each gift will receive the following entries to the giveaway:
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The winners of the Marmot Money Giveaway will be randomly selected and notified by November 21st. See full terms and conditions here.


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Look back over the recent victories of Cadel Evans, Thor Hushovd and Fabian Cancellara, and the team performances of the likes of CSC, Saeco and BMC Racing, seems to suggest that they have little in common.
However, if you were to compile photographs of each of these successes, the link between them would become immediately obvious. Whether it is Cancellara's Swiss champion's jersey or Cipollini's striking Saeco outfits; every photo would show a rider wearing red.
>> Subscribe to Cycling Weekly this Autumn and save 35%. Enjoy the luxury of home delivery and never miss an issue <<
Ask many cyclists and they will agree that red bikes go faster. This perception seems to have permeated the marketing mindsets of some of the largest manufacturers in cycling, with red a consistent third choice colour for shoes, jerseys and components after black and white.
The colour is found at the heart of cycling iconography; Cervélo, Specialized and Trek all have red logos, SRAM has gone as far as to name its top-level groupset after it, and even the ubiquitous Cycling Weekly header is emblazoned on a red background.
Scientific basis
Ongoing research into humans' perception of colour has recently suggested that there may be even more justification for this use of red than was first thought.
A 2005 study looked at the performance of athletes competing in four different combat sports at the 2004 Athens Olympics, where competitors are assigned either red or blue outfits, and found some interesting results.
Authors Russell Hill and Robert Barton found that athletes wearing red won their fights 55 per cent of the time. What's more, in contests judged as evenly matched before commencing, red won 60 per cent of the time.
Further research has shown a similar effect in football. Red teams have historically performed best in the top division of the English leagues, especially when compared to their rivals from the same city who wear a different strip. Liverpool, for example, have won more than Everton, and Manchester United more than Man City. Furthermore, over the course of Euro 2004, teams with two kits won more of their matches when in red than in their alternative.
This is all very interesting but what could it mean for cycling? To investigate this we need to take a look at how colour perception actually works.
Physical and psychological
Researchers believe seeing the colour red impacts an athlete's sporting ability in two ways. The first and best understood of these is a psychological response where the viewer responds submissively to red; mental capacity and responsiveness are reduced as feelings of anxiety and intimidation are raised. Studies have shown that this reduces reaction times and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.
This mechanism is found in nature too; many primates use the colour red to signal confidence and dominance, in particular through displaying red facial features, and fitting certain birds with red tags has been found to artificially promote them to the top of the mating hierarchy.
Humans, then, may have evolved to be instinctively anxious of any opposition that appears red, preferring to avoid any contests since the colour indicates they are likely to be coming up against a superior opponent. Dr Ian Greenlees, sports psychologist from the University of Chichester, believes there might be a corollary to this effect.
Speaking to CW, he said: "It could be that wearing red enhances the feelings of dominance and status and confidence of the wearer… but the evidence base for colour influencing the mood of the wearer is limited."
Hormonal effects
Much less understood, and the topic of ongoing research, is the hormonal response of the viewer to the wearing of red. Indications suggest that seeing red could have an effect on the body's production of key performance-affecting hormones.
Although not yet backed up by substantial scientific evidence, preliminary results suggest that wearing red raises cortisol levels in the body of the opponent and increases levels of stress and anxiety. Professor Robert Barton from Durham University is at the forefront of current research into this area.
"Although results are highly preliminary, if our hunch is right that the impact of the colour red works through hormones then we might expect the perception of red to affect performance over a longer duration," he told CW.
Over a long-term competition such as a Grand Tour, colour may actually be quite important. Continual exposure to red might affect hormone levels over a period of weeks, and this underlying hormonal impact could perhaps inhibit a rider's ability to perform at key, decisive moments in the race.
How could this be used in cycling?
Although the current research has not focused on cycling, and arguably has raised more questions than provided answers, the simplicity of colour means that there is the potential for any number of applications in cycling, many of which could be deployed at very little extra cost.
Simply applying colour strategically to certain parts of the bike or the rider's kit might provide very marginal gains. Yet the quest for precisely these gains is what encourages numerous manufacturers of aerodynamic equipment and nutritional products to pour money into the research, development and modification of their products.
Potential use in cycling manufacturing
Even a cursory glance at websites and marketing material shows that a seemingly disproportionate number of the biggest cycling companies of recent years use red as a central colour in their brand.
Emily Hamilton from Specialized told CW that red has always been associated with her company's public image.
"We have been using our red 'S' and word mark 'Specialized' logos since the late Eighties/early Nineties. It is also the colour used by our MTB team… and was often used on many bikes and equipment items over the years. Through the S logo, the teams and products, our brand has been associated with the colour red, making it our corporate colour."
Yet for Paul White, co-founder and CEO of Cervélo, the choice of red in his company's logo and bikes wasn't down to tradition.
"Red looks fast! Even before we were a company we were thinking of new ways to help riders go fast and at some point, the colour red just started to fit in with that nicely. Fortunately our bikes could be any colour and still go fast."
So it seems red does have a natural association with speed and superiority. But, at least for Specialized and Cervélo, the idea that this perception could affect performance was intuitive rather than based on research.
Psychological warfare
As an indispensable piece of sporting equipment, in particular for cyclists, Dr Greenlees tentatively suggested that colouring eyewear could also have an important role.
"In principle, we could predict that the same effects would be seen – wearing red glasses may enhance feelings of dominance. However, if the wearer is using a red tint then this may could have the opposite effect, as seeing red may lead to feelings of anxiety and avoidance."
This is something to think about next time you purchase new sunglasses or lenses. Although red tints may make everything 'look rosy,' they may not be doing your chances of winning the bunch sprint any good.
Before you go ditching the red lenses and stocking up on red jerseys, however, there are still some considerable scientific creases that need ironing out before any impact in cycling can be conclusively proved.
Most notably, the research to date has only investigated the effect in male participants, so the extent to which red colouration impacts female athletes is largely unknown. Given the role of colour as a strong signal in nature, it seems likely that there should be an impact for women as there is for men. However, we can't just assume this impact will translate directly across the sexes; displays of aggression and dominance in other species, for example, tend to be much less common in females than they are in males.
We also need to consider the extent to which colour perception is something instinctive and how this contrasts with the culturally-mediated experiences we have of colour due to associations formed during childhood.
Growing up in Europe, children learn to associate red with a hazard or a mistake. "As we see red at traffic lights or red pen on a marked piece of homework at school, it builds up a similar effect to natural colour associations," added Professor Barton.
The mixture of 'nature v nurture' in perceiving colour is yet to be explored, and Prof Barton believes cross-cultural research is needed to fully understand its dynamics. In various different places across the world, linguistic and conceptual definitions of colour vary considerably; assessing the impact of red on performance in these locations could prove immensely useful.
This is an interesting prospect for Dr Greenlees too. "We may just associate red with dominance in English football due to the success of Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal. If this is the case, would different colour associations (eg yellow) operate in cycling?" he ponders. "We are a long way from knowing the answer."
With so many questions remaining unanswered, it could be a while before research conclusively identifies the precise mechanisms of any effects of colour. But in a sport where performance is intimately tied to technology, and where margins of victory are becoming ever smaller, it might not be too long before we see strategic use of colour making its way into the peloton.
How colour may help
The implications of this research into colour for the sport of cycling represent unexplored territory, since the sports examined thus far are ones characterised by a direct, face to face contest over a short timescale. Cycling and its various disciplines offer a very different type of competition; they typically involve contests of longer duration, with less need to focus specifically on one opponent and with no intervention from a referee.
Downhill mountain biking
Skill and technical ability are very important for performance. However there is very little contact with an opponent, so an exposure to red that might inhibit technique is unlikely.
Time trialling
Since the competitor again seldom comes into contact with any opposition, and concentration and the ability to stay 'in the zone' are more important than technical skill, any red colouring is likely to have little impact on performance.
Track sprinting
Technical ability is important, but decision-making and judgement are critical in assessing your opponent and choosing when to launch your sprint. What's more, victory or defeat can be decided by a matter of centimetres or even less, making any tiny percentage advantage gained through colour perception potentially crucial.
Cross does present riders with numerous and repeated instances where they are in direct contact with opponents, such as at the start or when overtaking, and are also required to exercise technical ability, as when overcoming obstacles. Colour could have an impact here.
Road racing
With so many varying situations and skills required in road racing, it would be difficult to use red strategically. Exposing opponents to red during a sprint finish or when attacking on a climb would seem to be most beneficial, yet continual exposure to red during the course of long stage races of over a week in length could have a cumulative impact. This would see opponents less able to perform at the decisive moments in the race.
This article originally appeared in the November 3 2011 issue of Cycling Weekly magazine


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Poised between fog city and oblivion, he spat and stepped off the railing. Regret hit hard, and too late.
The unforgiving bay knocked him cold, a goner, except for the nearby trawler crew who fished him onboard—gasping, now knowing what to live for every day: friendly smiles, and breakfast.
Kathy Myers finds these 50-word stories a challenge, but fun, much like her 24 years working on a San Francisco locked psych unit.


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I have been meaning to try these out for ages. A friend on facebook, Kate posted that she was making them, and I asked for the recipe, Kate (who lives in Chicago) gave me a recipe by Paula Deen, and I have Australian-ised the recipe a bit.
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla paste*
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
250g cream cheese, softened
125g butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla paste
2 cups sifted icing sugar
Chopped pecans or fresh raspberries or strawberries, for garnish
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Line 2 (12-cup) muffin pans with cupcake papers.
In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In a large bowl gently beat together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla with a handheld electric mixer. Add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet and mix until smooth and thoroughly combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake tins about 2/3 filled (Don't over fill, nobody likes a muffin-top). Bake in oven for about 20 to 22 minutes, turning the pans once, half way through. Test the cupcakes with a toothpick for doneness. Remove from oven and cool completely before icing.
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter and vanilla together until smooth. Add the sugar and on low speed, beat until incorporated. Increase the speed to high and mix until very light and fluffy.
Garnish with chopped pecans or fresh raspberry or strawberry.
Cook's Note: Frost the cupcakes with a butter knife or pipe it on with a big star tip. Vanilla bean paste is available from supermarkets, I like the Queen brand


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Product Details
A great choice to wear when pushing yourself to the max, the ASICS women's SEAMLESS SS TEXTURE short-sleeved running top will help keep you cool and collected right up until you reach the finish line.
Not only is the SEAMLESS SS TEXTURE airy and comfortable to wear, it also boasts a luxuriously soft feel and jacquard at the upper body for styling and visual interest. The seamless yarn helps to reduce the risk of chafing and the reflective bars on the sleeves and at the back allow you to remain visible to motorists even when running at night or in the early morning. The reflective ASICS spiral adds that extra finishing touch.
- Seamless yarn
- Jacquard at the upper
- Soft feel
- Short-sleeved
- Reflective ASICS spiral
- Reflective bars on the sleeves and at the back


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Rural Pharmacy and Prescription Drugs
Prescription drugs are a key component in the healthcare rural Americans receive. Pharmacies and pharmacists, in particular, play a critical role in dispensing these medications, educating patients, and ensuring patient safety. However, rural community pharmacies face many challenges to stay open, including low-volume purchasing, slim profit margins, unfavorable insurance practices, a limited pharmacy workforce, and the slow growth of many rural economies.
When a pharmacy is not available nearby, timely access to pharmaceutical services can be compromised due to lack of transportation options, extreme weather conditions, or the patient being too sick to travel the long distance to the nearest pharmacy.
While the development of telepharmacy and online mail order pharmacies might suggest that geographical limits to access are no longer a concern, many rural residents do not have the equipment, technical skills, and/or telecommunications accessibility that these services require. Rural pharmacies and pharmacists will continue to fill an important and much-needed role in the health of rural people.
This guide:
- Looks at the financial viability of rural pharmacies
- Discusses the challenges to providing accessible prescription drugs
- Examines the 340B Drug Pricing Program
- Explores technological advances and new business models in providing pharmacy services
- Addresses the rural pharmacy workforce shortage
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is it important for rural people to have access to pharmacy services?
- What challenges exist to maintain rural pharmacy services?
- Is there sufficient access to pharmacies and pharmacists in rural America?
- What is the role of a pharmacist in a rural hospital?
- What resources are available to help individuals pay for prescription drugs?
- What is the 340B Drug Pricing Program and who benefits from this program?
- How are telepharmacy and other new business models maintaining pharmacy services and pharmaceutical access in rural communities?
- Who can I contact for assistance with rules and regulations on pharmaceutical services within rural healthcare facilities?
Why is it important for rural people to have access to pharmacy services?
Pharmaceutical care is an important aspect of the spectrum of healthcare. Pharmacists are part of the healthcare team and provide counseling to patients and advice to medical staff and case managers. They have an essential role in helping prevent medication errors and in identifying drug interactions. Pharmacy services include more than just supplying prescription drugs, a role that online mail order pharmacies can, and increasingly do, fill. Pharmacists also provide immunizations and advice on over-the-counter medications and support other healthcare facilities such as skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, and hospice care. Furthermore, the rural population tends to be older and have more chronic health conditions than the urban population, which makes access to pharmacy services important to the health of rural residents. Rural elders, who may have multiple prescriptions, can particularly benefit from a relationship with a pharmacist who, along with their physician, can help them manage their medications. However, regardless of patient age, pharmacy services are essential components to meet the healthcare needs of all rural residents.
What challenges exist to maintain rural pharmacy services?
A 2017 analysis by the RUPRI Center for Rural Health Policy indicated the closure of rural pharmacies has slowed down. However, there continue to be several issues of concern by rural pharmacists that challenge their provision of pharmacy services including:
- Outdated maximum allowable cost (MAC) pricing for wholesale costs to pharmacies
- Direct and indirect remuneration (DIR) fees charged to rural pharmacies by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs)
- Pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) practices restricting their preferred networks to mail order and chain store pharmacies
- Competition from mail order companies and chain store pharmacies who often are able to purchase prescription drugs in large volume at a reduced cost
- Being a non-preferred pharmacy for Medicare Part D plans
- Difficulty in finding replacement pharmacists due to retirement or the sale of the pharmacy
Many of these issues put financial pressures on rural pharmacies that can lead to closure, limiting access to pharmacies and pharmacy services for residents. For more discussion about these challenges, see Issues Confronting Rural Pharmacies after a Decade of Medicare Part D.
Is there sufficient access to pharmacies and pharmacists in rural America?
Independent, rural pharmacies are struggling to survive due to declining rural populations, increased competition from internet and chain store pharmacies, higher cost of prescription drugs for low-volume pharmacies, and difficulty in finding replacement pharmacists for those who retire.
According to the RUPRI Center for Rural Health Policy's Update: Independently Owned Pharmacy Closures in Rural America, 2003-2018, 1,231 independently owned rural pharmacies were lost from March 2003 to March 2018, including 630 that served as their rural community's only retail pharmacy. Another study, Rural Pharmacy Closures: Implications for Rural Communities, found 119 sole community pharmacies closed between May 2006 and October 2010; 31 of the communities affected had no other healthcare providers.
Previous studies have shown a common cause for closure has been pharmacists retiring and being difficult to replace. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics for 2017, less than 12% of all pharmacists in the U.S. are employed in nonmetropolitan areas. Rural pharmacists tend to work longer hours than their urban counterparts, and relief coverage for vacation and illness is tough for rural pharmacists to find, making it difficult for rural areas to recruit and retain pharmacists.
Yet, the picture isn't entirely bleak. The pace of pharmacy closures has slowed according to Telepharmacy Rules and Statutes: A 50-State Survey. Rural pharmacies are finding new business models and rural pharmacists are embracing new technologies, like telepharmacy, remote pharmacy, and local delivery or mail to reach their patients.
What is the role of a pharmacist in a rural hospital?
The role of the rural pharmacist varies across rural hospitals and Critical Access Hospitals. Types of roles that a hospital pharmacist fills may include:
- Dispensing and managing medications throughout hospital and at remote sites
- Compounding medications
- Drug inventory management
- Medication review and reconciliation
- Monitoring of medication therapy
- Department management of budget and personnel
- Compliance with all state and federal pharmacy laws and regulations
- Development and maintenance of all pharmacy policies and procedures
- Patient and staff education
- Leading or participating in quality control and improvement efforts, including reduction of adverse drug events and antibiotic stewardship
Identifying Adverse Drug Events in Rural Hospitals: An Eight-State Study found that Critical Access Hospitals in those states employed fewer full-time pharmacists. Due to patient volume, many CAHs cannot employ a full-time pharmacist, relying instead on part-time, contract, or shared pharmacists. Oftentimes, the pharmacist from the local community pharmacy also acts as the hospital pharmacist. Alternatively, CAHs may rely on telepharmacy services to meet their needs. When the pharmacist is not a full-time employee of the hospital, their activities are likely to be limited in scope and may not include roles like patient education or participating on quality improvement committees.
Also, the role of a rural hospital pharmacist is frequently faced with budgetary and staffing challenges that may distinguish their roles from a hospital pharmacist in an urban setting. These challenges include:
- The responsibility, along with the difficulty, of staffing the pharmacy, including hiring pharmacy technicians and full-time, part-time, and casual staff.
- Limited time for pharmacist staffing on site, requiring remote order processing services after-hours.
- A less than robust formulary due to budget constraints or availability of staff 24/7.
- The need to provide pharmaceutical services remotely to ensure continuity of care while not on site, which requires the capability to provide services by phone and/or via remote computer access.
What resources are available to help individuals pay for prescription drugs?
Several resources are available to identify programs that can help individuals pay for prescription drugs.
Medicine Assistance Tool offers a database of prescription drug assistance programs available from pharmaceutical companies. The website allows patients, caregivers, or healthcare providers to search for specific medications and find matching assistance programs.
The ADAP (AIDS Drug Assistance Programs) Directory lists programs by state that help people living with HIV and AIDS who are uninsured and underinsured have access to medication.
State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs) is a list of programs by state that, in partnership with Medicare, may help pay drug plan premiums and/or other drug costs. Not all states are listed.
Children may be eligible for health insurance, including prescription coverage, through Medicaid and through the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
What is the 340B Drug Pricing Program and who benefits from this program?
The 340B Drug Pricing Program allows certain facilities, such as Federally Qualified Health Centers, FQHC Look-Alikes, Critical Access Hospitals, Sole Community Hospitals, Rural Referral Centers, and Disproportionate Share Hospitals that meet certain requirements, to purchase prescription and non-prescription medications at reduced cost. Participating facilities can use these savings to reduce the price of medications for patients, increase the number of indigent patients served, expand the number of drugs offered, and expand other services offered to patients. The 340B program is based on Section 340B of Public Law 102-585, the Veterans Health Care Act of 1992.
The 340B Prime Vendor Program (PVP), is a free federal program open to all eligible entities. The PVP negotiates pricing below the 340B ceiling price, helping to establish distribution solutions and networks that improve access to affordable medications for participants of the 340B Drug Pricing Program. In addition, the PVP offers value added products and services in an effort to decrease the cost of providing medication to patients of the participating facilities. The program is voluntary and open to facilities that are already registered with Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for the 340B program. Registration for the program is done via the PVP's online enrollment system. Additional assistance is available at 888.340.2787.
For more information about the 340B Drug Pricing program, please see the Health Resources and Services Administration's Introduction to 340B Drug Pricing Program. Should you need technical assistance, please contact the Prime Vendor Program by phone at 888.340.2787 or email at firstname.lastname@example.com.
How are telepharmacy and other new business models maintaining pharmacy services and pharmaceutical access in rural communities?
Telepharmacy, which employs technology to provide pharmacy services at a distance, is being used to provide additional access to pharmacist services in existing pharmacies such as in rural hospitals with limited hours of on-site pharmacist coverage. Telepharmacy also allows more timely review of medication orders. For more information about the telepharmacy model, and on how to set up a telepharmacy program, see North Dakota State University's Telepharmacy.
Several other business models and service enhancements are used by rural pharmacies to increase access to pharmaceuticals. One example is courier services, which bring prescription drugs to the patient or to an outlying location. Security can be an issue with the delivery of controlled substances using this approach. Other examples include mail order service for a minimal fee or at no cost and curbside pickup, with the convenience of picking up prescriptions without leaving your vehicle.
Although not a new model, communities may want to pursue the development of a locum tenens program through their state pharmacy board, college of pharmacy, or state pharmacy association when in need of a pharmacist. These programs help provide relief staffing by pharmacists willing to substitute for other pharmacists on a temporary basis.
Who can I contact for assistance with rules and regulations on pharmaceutical services within rural healthcare facilities?
Please contact your:
- CMS Regional Office Rural Health Coordinator for questions about CMS policies and regulations regarding pharmaceutical services located within RHCs, FQHCs, and CAHs
- State Pharmacy Board for state licensure and state laws regulating the practice of pharmacy
- Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC), for questions about Medicare Part A or Part B drug coverage, billing, and reimbursement issues
For CAHs specifically:
Your State Rural Hospital Flexibility Program Contact can provide guidance regarding pharmacies located in CAHs.
Last Reviewed: 10/10/2018


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Basic Financial Advice for Small Business Owners
Being a small business owner has lots of very difficult challenges that need to be met and overcome. Managing your finances is one of those many challenges that will no doubt be a substantial consideration for those hoping to maximize profits in a small business. Fortunately, there are many ways that you can keep your finances in order.
Keep Track of Your Finances
Organization is the key to keeping your financial situation in order and up to date. You will need to keep up with all of your receipts and invoicing to ensure that when taxes come or even a budget check, that you have an accurate number of how much you have spent and have left. You will also need to keep track of all of your loans and debts you may acquire.
Have Separate Accounts for Your Personal and Business Expenses
You do not want to mix your business and personal expenses. It is best for you to have separate accounts for each. Unless absolutely necessary, do not take money out of your personal accounts in order to "help pay" extra bills. The company should not spend more than it has made without the ability to pay it back through payments.
Be Frugal
Considering the advice given so far, we need to look at the other side of things. There will be things that you will have to spend a lot of money on for your business. Your business will not generate a profit unless you invest some money in it. However, there are several ways that you can do this wisely.
One example you consider is buying used equipment to start off. You can also eliminate unnecessary spending by looking over costs that are not absolutely necessary for the immediate growth of the business.
Additionally, if you feel like you are spending too much money on your office, then you should consider moving to another space or working out of home until you have enough money to fund the kind of office you are looking for.
Hire a Certified Public Accountant
A Certified Public Accountant can help you manage your business finances. They will also be able to tell you about the tax laws and how they apply to your business, which is extremely important, considering just how much rules can change from businesses from state to state in the US.
Furthermore, a CPA can also assist as a tax advisor who can give you professional advice to help you save money in the long term. You may be eligible for a number of tax advantages as a small business owner and a CPA can give you the best advice on how to make the most of that opportunity.
Make Sure That You are Insured
It is estimated that 1 in 12 small businesses will have to close their doors due to the injury or illness of their employees. That is why it is important to have disability insurance. You will also need to have personal life insurance. If you are unsure about the type of insurance that you need, you should speak with an insurance agent. On the off chance something goes wrong, it is good to make sure your financial future does not hang in the balance.
Surround Yourself with Experts
One of the reasons that many business owners fail is because they do not have the right people in their corner. You will need to have a network of people who can support you and give you the valuable advice needed to run and keep up a business.
In addition to an accountant, you will also need a tax advisor, lawyer, and just find ways to mingle with other business owners or investors at conferences that allow you to meet people who have been through your situation and have better insight than you might.
Pay Yourself First
When many business owners get paid, they invest all of their money into their business. They take care of their business expenses and buy new things to help the business grow without first making sure their own personal dues are met. It is important to make sure that when the money comes in, you pay yourself first. You should be saving 10 to 20 percent of your income and make sure you are getting what you need to make a living while running the business.
In summary, it can be very difficult running a successful business. Staying ahead of finances can be one of the most important parts of building a company that will succeed and grow continually. Tools such as Quicken can help you personally keep your finances in order so you always know how much you have in the bank and how much you can spend. This is not just important in the business world, but your personal life as well.
Guest Post: About the Author
Hi, I'm Austin Winder, a Public Relations Specialist and contributing author for Uppercut Box. I live in Memphis, TN and graduated with a business and marketing degree from the University of Memphis.


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Lukas Werth
13-Jun-1998, 20:19
Hello, I am thinking of getting a 8x10 camera which I would need exclusively for contac t prints. I am thinking of the Bender 8x10 kit, because it is affordable and lig hweight. But I am reading mixed accounts about its rigidity and usability. The p roduct review on the large format page centers around building the camera. My qu estion: are there people using the Bender 8x10, and what do they think about the camera? Would they recommend it, if yes, under which circumstances? Lukas


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BAMMA Returns to Ireland February 27 for 'BAMMA 24 – Kone vs. Phillips'
BAMMA Returns to Ireland February 27 for 'BAMMA 24 – Kone vs. Phillips'
London, England – February 24, 2016 – BAMMA, Europe's largest and most prominent Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) promotion, is gearing up for another exciting night of fights in the Emerald Isle. The first show the organization held in the Irish Capital (BAMMA 22: DuQuesnoy vs. Loughnane) was hugely successful, drawing over 5,000 fans. Attendance for 'BAMMA 24 – Kone vs. Phillips' is expected to be even higher, as the card features many of Europe's top MMA prospects. The event will take place on February 27 at the famed 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland.
The fight card for this highly anticipated event is stacked with top MMA talent, including many fan favorites from England and Ireland. Warriors from both countries will go head-to-head under the BAMMA banner, with the results having massive implications across the BAMMA divisions. In addition to the stellar roster, 'BAMMA 24 – Kone vs. Phillips' features two title fights and a Bantamweight Superfight that fans will not want to miss!
In the main event BAMMA Middle Weight Champion Cheick 'The Sniper' Kone (13-3) is set to defend his title against John 'The White Mike Tyson' Phillips (18-6-1). Kone , currently riding a 6 fight win streak that includes impressive first round wins over Andy 'The Lions Paw' DeVent, 'The Housewives Choice' Chris Fields and Benny Brinsa, will be looking to add Phillips to his 'who's who' of middleweight division wins. Phillips, known for his no nonsense striking, signed a new multi-fight deal with the organization to face Kone. The BAMMA veteran went 2-0 in 2015 and is looking to kick-off 2016 with a championship belt. Both Kone and Phillips are known for finishing fights. Fans can expect nothing less than fireworks when these heavy handed fighters enter the cage!
In the Co-main event BAMMA Featherweight Champion Tom 'Firekid' DuQuesnoy (11-1-1), who trains out of Greg Jacksons Jackson-Wink MMA in Albuquerque, New Mexico, makes the drop down to bantamweight to challenge Ireland fan favorite Damien 'The Rage' Rooney (10-4-1). On a 7 fight winning streak and undefeated since February of 2013, this will be DuQuesnoy's first appearance in the Bantamweight division. He will not be getting a warm welcome from Rooney, who will be looking for a dominant win in front of his home crowd. Rooney, known for his entertaining style and crowd pleasing performances, has long been a fan favorite in the Irish MMA scene.
These are just a few of many exciting match-ups set for BAMMA 24! In addition to a stacked main card, the preliminary card features Europe's finest up and coming MMA talent. This is a night of fights that fans will not want to miss! See the full fight card below.
Official 'BAMMA 24 – Kone vs. Phillips' Fight Card:
Main card:
(Bantamweight Superfight) *Tom 'Firekid' DuQuesnoy vs. Damien 'The Rage' Rooney
(Middleweight Title) Paul Byrne vs. Andy 'Lions Paw' DeVent
(Light Heavyweight) 'The Housewives Choice' Chris Fields vs. Dan Konecke
(Welterweight) Nathan 'Mr. Bag & Tag' Jones vs. Peter 'The Showstopper' Queally
Preliminary card:
(Lonsdale Bantamweight Title) Alan 'The Apprentice' Philpott vs. Nathaniel 'The Prospect' Wood
(Lightweight) 'Magic' Myles Price vs. Mario 'Rudely' Saeed
(Women's Featherweight) Sinead Kavanagh vs. Zarah Fairn Dos Santos
(Middleweight) Conor 'Da Crook' Cooke vs. Matt 'Farmer Boy' Hallam
(Lightweight) Brian 'Pikeman' Moore vs. Mick 'Basher' Brennan
(Featherweight) Decky 'The Diamond' Dalton vs. Mike 'Gip' Cutting
(Featherweight) James Gallagher vs. Gerard Gilmore
(Featherweight) Dylan 'The Nuke' Tuke vs. Mark 'The Prophet' Andrew
(160lb Catchweight) Rhys 'Skeletor' McKee vs. Alex Masuku
(Bantamweight) Sean Tobin vs. Gary 'The Dumptruck' Morris
(Featherweight) Lloyd Manning vs. Nicholas Ott
(Lightweight Amateur Bout) Cian Cowley vs. Jay Moogan
*Tom DuQuesnoy is still the BAMMA Featherweight Champion, this is his debut at Bantamweight
'BAMMA 24 – Kone vs. Phillips' will take place this Saturday February 27, 2016 at the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland. Fights begin at 7pm GMT. Tickets can be purchased on www.bamma.com or Ticketmaster.ie. Fans worldwide can watch the preliminary bouts live (and FREE) on the Lonsdale FB page from 2pm – 5pm ET. Main card bouts to air live on Spike TV UK 10pm GMT.
BAMMA events are brought to you in Association with Spike TV & Channel 5 (BAMMA Broadcast Partners), Lonsdale & Sports Direct (Official Equipment Partners of BAMMA) and Safe MMA (Independent British Medical Organization).
Nuyelo is dedicated to providing healthy supplements to athletes and those seeking to enhance a healthy lifestyle. We give the best tasting, most effective, and balanced nutritional supplements ever!
Click HERE to check out the online Store!!


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Seems like it's baby season right now. Every where I look my friends have just had or are having a baby. A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of baking the cake and cupcakes for a friend's baby shower. I was quite nervous with this being my first big event, but I think the end results were not too shabby.
Now for some details. I call this cake my Ruffle Cake. This particular ruffle cake was strawberry, lemon poppy seed cake filled with strawberry buttercream and iced with vanilla buttercream icing. I used a rose tip to pipe the icing and it took what felt like half my life to ice the entire cake. The cupcakes were chocolate cake filled with nutella and topped with vanilla buttercream icing.
My favorite part of the shower (besides the glowing guest of honor) was when a guest came up to me and asked me if the cupcakes were filled with nutella. After I said yes, she shook my hand and said 'spectacular.' I never never did find out her name but she totally made my day :).
Here are some more fun pictures:


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Business economists are turning pessimistic about the U.S. outlook and increasingly fear economy will slip into a recession in coming months.
The National Association for Business Economics said Monday that the 109 members who responded to its quarterly survey between March 24 and April 8 were "notably downbeat" about their first-quarter experience and about near-term prospects.
"For the first time in five years, reports of falling profit margins outnumbered reports of rising margins in the first quarter of 2008, while demand at respondents' firms grew more weakly than at any time since the recession of 2001," said Ken Simonson, chief economist for Associated General Contractors of America.
About 30 percent of respondents expected gross domestic product, the broadest measure of national economic activity, to decline in the first half of 2008 and most others thought growth will be below an annual rate of 1 percent.
By contrast, only 10 percent expected the economy to contract in the first half when they were surveyed in January.
A recession is typically defined as two consecutive quarters in which GDP declines. The last U.S. recession ran from March to November 2001.
NABE said the steep drop in goods and services demand its members reported in the first quarter "is consistent with other evidence that the U.S. economy is slowing and may be in recession."
The Bush administration has steadfastly refused to speculate whether a recession has begun, although Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson concedes the economy "has turned down sharply." President Bush said on Friday the White House foresaw a downturn last fall and acted to put a stimulus program in place to counter it.
None of it was making businessmen happy.
"Seventy percent say they are more pessimistic than three months ago," NABE said.
Among other concerns, 66 percent of respondents said they paid more for materials in the first quarter this year, which NABE said was the highest share since 2004. They blamed weakening markets and soaring commodity prices for squeezing profit margins.
More were suffering from tight credit conditions.
"Thirty-nine percent of respondents stated that tightening credit conditions have negatively affected their business, up from 26 percent in January," NABE said.
Employers were cautious about hiring, with 34 percent saying they will add jobs over the next six months and 23 percent planning to cut staff.
There were signs that a slowing economy was making it harder for companies to boost prices. NABE said 34 percent of respondents said they expect to boost prices in coming months compared with 47 percent who planned to do so in January.


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Mitchell Birkhead struck a crucial double as Bedfont Green Youth U14s won their battle of the Titans with Hanworth Villa on Sunday.
The two clubs had 100 per cent records prior to the clash, but Birkhead's goals, coupled with one for Gage Chandler, sent his side three points clear at the top.
The U14s weren't the club's only side to achieve a landmark victory, with the U7s recording a first-ever league win away to Old Isleworthians. Dhillon Hollands and Bradleigh Vaughan were the youngsters on the mark in their 2-1 success.
Robbie Joseph stole the glory as the U9 Juniors completed a hat-trick of wins with a 3-2 League Cup win over Premier Division Woking Town.
Joseph bagged all three goals in a great all-round team performance.
It was a good day for the U9 sides with the Colts chalking up eight without reply against Carshalton. Tyler Shrubb's hat-trick led the way, and there were also goals for Josh Robins, Joey Morrison, Albert Goodwin and Kane Kennedy.
And the U9 Youth completed a hat-trick of wins by this age group as they swept aside Ashtead Colts 5-1, thanks to doubles from Charlie Sumpter and Lewis Wood and one for Daniel Choules.
Ben Stamps was the youngster to make his mark for the U15s as they came from behind to win away to Barnes Eagles. Stamps fired a hat-trick with Jimmy Hamlet grabbing their other goal in a 4-2 win.
It was a scoreline matched by the U12 Royals, who had their own hat-trick hero in the shape of Abby Mohammed. Anneesh Sachdeva was also on target.
Not to be outdone, Harrison Livingstone fired a treble of his own as the U11 Colts racked up a 6-0 thrashing of Teddington Stags.
Daniel McGann, Scott Whittart and Ben Carter were their other scorers.
Other winners on the day were the U8s, 4-1 victors over Twickenham Tigers, thanks to Josh McBride's brace, and one each for Austin Flanagan and Liam Woodham, while Liam Gregory scored a last-minute winner for the U10 Colts as they came from 2-0 down to win 3-2. Yousef Hedfi and Charlie Holmes had started the fightback.
However, there were defeats in the Middlesex County Cup for U11 Colts, the U11 Juniors and the U13s.


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2013 Jaguar XJ Drops V8 for Supercharged Six, Loses 168 HP
Jaguar announced details on its 2013 XJ sport sedan today including the news that its previous 5.0-liter V8 would be replaced with a 3.0-liter supercharged V6.
Often noted for its all-aluminum architecture, the lightweight sedan will benefit from improved fuel economy thanks to its smaller engine and a new eight-speed automatic transmission with standard start-stop technology. The 3.0-liter supercharged V6 offers 335 hp and is the same powerplant that will propel the upcoming F-Type roadster.
According to Jaguar, the upcoming model will also have an more refined, better performing suspension. Despite the changes for better performance, the company also took measures to improve ride quality with re-calibrated spring and damper tunes and remapped damper software.
Much the same as many other automakers, Jaguar is taking steps to offer performance and fuel economy in the same package. In other manufacturer's cases, that hasn't meant such a drastic power sacrifice, but given how light the XJ is for it's size, it might not matter all that much, especially with a supercharger to deliver initial boost.
In 2011, sales increased for the car, though it remains to be seen if that will be true with the smaller engine. Then again, a jump to 30 mpg on the highway over the company's estimated 25 last year probably won't hurt either.


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Discuss former Wolfpack athletes accomplishments in the professional ranks.
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Now we are looking on the crossword clue for: River in Kazakhstan.
it's A 19 letters crossword puzzle definition.
Next time, try using the search term "River in Kazakhstan crossword" or "River in Kazakhstan crossword clue" when searching for help with your puzzle in the web. See the possible answers for River in Kazakhstan below.
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We hope you did!. If you are still unsure with some definitions, don't hesitate to search them here with our crossword puzzle solver.


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If a police motorcycle is travelling down the road at 138.4 kilometres per hour and baseball pro Bob Feller throws a fast ball at a bullseye – how fast did the pitch go?
This was the quasi-science used in this vintage YouTube footage to prove that a pitcher could lug a baseball faster than a speeding motorcycle.
Clearly, things were little more primitive before we had speed cameras and radar guns.
The simplicity of the experiment is actually quite elegant and proves the point fairly succinctly that Feller was capable of pitching a ball faster than 100 kilometres per hour.
No-one show Mike Baird otherwise pretty soon he'll introduce similar testing methods for speeding cars, only police are the ones throwing the balls.


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Founded in 1989, the GardensArt program is a unique program that exhibits the work of locally and nationally recognized professional artists and photographers. It was established to increase the opportunities for cultural exchange between artists and the community.
The rotating exhibits are loaned to the City for approximately six to eight weeks and provide contact with a broad spectrum of high quality artwork through varied techniques and mediums. GardensArt has earned and maintained an exceptional reputation among professional artists and the community as a whole.
The program offers workshops, artist demonstrations, musical performances, and community partnerships in order to make the program more interactive. All of the exhibits are free and open to the public.
Exhibition Info
My Journey with Paint: Cynthia Maronet
Opening Reception: Thursday, December 15th 6-8pm
November 21, 2011 – January 13, 2012
City Hall Lobby
10500 N Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens, 33410
Price List (pdf)


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Michael R. Fulchera, Gary C. Bergstroma, Mark E. Sorrellsb, and David Benscherb
aPlant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology Section and bPlant Breeding and Genetics Section, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Crown rust is a continuing threat to oat production in New York, and recent epidemics have cast a spotlight on this disease. To better advise growers on crown rust management, we examined the impact of crown rust on oat grain yields and the disease resistance of available and soon to be available varieties.
The fungal pathogen that causes this disease, Puccinia coronata var. avenae, is widespread in New York and often found on susceptible oat varieties. Characterized by bright-orange, blistering pustules, this disease can be seen from June through August (Figure 1). Once established in a field, disease progresses quickly as the spores of the fungus are dispersed by the wind. The spores are blown to new leaves, different plants and even other fields. Older crown rust lesions develop a black rust spore stage, and these spores can infect the alternate host, common buckthorn, providing early inoculum for oat infections in fields adjacent to infected buckthorn in the following May.
The pathogen requires living plants to survive so it rarely persists through the winter on oat in New York. However, viable crown rust spores from maturing oat crops in states to our south arrive in New York on wind currents each spring to commence annual epidemics. Some overwintering can occur in New York when the fungus moves back and forth between oat and common buckthorn (Figure 2).
Management of crown rust is best achieved through careful selection of an oat variety. Few options exist to combat the disease after plants are in the field. Some fungicides are labelled for crown rust control in New York, and some growers have realized a return in investment from a timely fungicide spray at or prior to panicle emergence. Crown rust significantly impacts the yield of susceptible varieties and in extreme cases may cause crop failure. Even slight visual symptoms around the soft dough growth stage can translate to yield loss (Figure 3). Rust pathogens are known to evolve quickly to overcome resistance, but based on several years of observation we have identified the varieties that currently are most resistant in New York (Table 1). If you are considering a spring oat planting, choose a variety with proven resistance to current populations of the crown rust fungus in New York.
Late summer forage plantings are at a higher risk for infection since the spores that cause disease will increase and spread throughout the growing season. When these forage plantings are infected, pathogen overwintering on buckthorn can be increased. This contributes to crop epidemics the following year and may speed the breakdown of oat varietal resistance.
Crown rust will continue to threaten oat yields, but you can reduce the spread of this disease by planting resistant varieties and notifying your local Cornell Cooperative Extension Field Crop Specialist or the Cornell Field Crops Pathology Program if you find the pathogen in your fields.
Reference on the complete study:
Fulcher, M.R., D. Benscher, M.E. Sorrells, and G.C. Bergstrom. 2020. Preserving spring oat yields in New York through varietal resistance to crown rust.Plant Health Progress Published On-line 21 January 2020 https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/10.1094/PHP-05-19-0037-RS


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By Peter Schwartz
» More Columns
On Wednesday, the Packers and Steelers practiced for the first time since arriving in North Texas, and both teams took their practices indoors because of the inclement weather here in the Dallas area.
The Packers worked out at Highland Park High School's indoor facility because the SMU field was not playable and will be back there on Thursday and Friday. Jim Trotter from Sports Illustrated was the designated NFL pool reporter and caught up with Packers head coach Mike McCarthy after practice.
"The players rolled their eyes at first when I told them where we were going to work," coach Mike McCarthy said afterward. "I said, 'Now, just hold on. This is Texas football.' My daughter went to Lake Travis High School (in Austin), and their facilities are similar to this. I don't think anybody was disappointed when they walked through the doors."
PHOTOS: Peter Schwartz at the Super Bowl
"The guys are fresh, they're ready," McCarthy said afterward. "I want to keep the risk for injury low leading up to the game, which is why we shortened some things today. But it was good to get back in pads. The guys were flying around; they were banging pretty good. I feel very good about the quality of work, particularly up front. I did not put the pads on them last week because we were coming off a situation where we had played five must-win games in a row, and our linemen were beat up. I wanted to make sure I gave them a chance to get back, and it definitely paid off today."
The Packers reported that tackle Chad Clifton (knees), guard Jason Spitz (calf), and linebacker Erik Walden (ankle) were all limited. Trotter asked McCarthy about Walden's status for the Super Bowl.
"How Erik responds to this practice will be big," McCarthy said. "He practiced and took reps in every team drill. That was the high end of what we were going to try to give him today. It'll be great if he feels good tomorrow.
While the rest of the team was at the indoor high school facility, kicker Mason Crosby and punter Tim Masthay ventured off to Cowboys Stadium to work out and may do that again this week.
After practice, I caught up with former Jets defensive lineman Howard Green who landed on his feet nicely with the Packers and is looking forward to playing in the Super Bowl.
Meanwhile at Steelers practice at TCU's indoor facility, center Maurkice Pouncey did not practice because of a high ankle sprain. The AFC champions went through a one hour and fifty-eight minute workout. Defensive end Aaron Smith was limited because of a torn triceps.
Peter King from Sports Illustrated is the designated AFC pool reporter and spoke with Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin after practice. The first questions was about Pouncey.
"He's a center who's got a high ankle sprain,'' said Tomlin, minutes after dismissing his team for the afternoon. "If he played a skill position, we wouldn't be having this conversation. But he's an interior lineman. Whether he practices [by Friday] depends how he responds to treatment.''
King also spoke with Tomlin about the conditions that forced the Steelers indoors.
"One thing we're used to is weather,'' said Tomlin. "We're not going to fight elements. We're used to adjusting as we have to, and we got all our work in. It was a good day.''
While the focus should be on the Packers and Steelers, you can't get away from the labor situation. I attended a news conference with NFL Executive Vice-President Jeffrey Pash who updated the CBA negotiations. Pash made a number of points during his briefing with reporters.
*If the two sides don't reach an agreement by March 4th (when the current CBA expires), then both sides will have failed to honor their commitment to the fans.
*Pash said that "the time has come for a shared commitment to devote all energy towards intensive serious ongoing negotiating."
*The league wants a deal that is fair for both sides.
*The NFLPA has full rights to financial information about the league.
*Since 2006, the players have received 70 cents of every dollar of increased revenue.
*An 18 game regular season could be part of a new business model.
*There is more common ground between the two sides than people realize but they do have to agree on a fundamental economic structure.
*A lockout is certainly an option for the league if there is not a deal in place by March 4th, but if both sides are engaged in good faith negotiating, Pash did not rule out "stopping the clock" meaning there's a possibility that a work stoppage would not occur.
Here's a look at what's on tap for Thursday…
The Packers and Steelers will practice again and the players will meet the media for the final time. The two head coaches will hold their final news conference on Friday.
NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith will hold a news conference to give the union's side of the labor situation.
A press conference will be held for the Super Bowl halftime show as "The Black Eyed Peas" will speak to the media.
There's sure to be some more news and notes from here in Dallas so check back for more!
When the dust settles on Super Sunday, who will come out on top? Make your predictions below!


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Dealing With Declining Student Numbers
The Consolidation Quandary
In North Dakota and other states, educators often clash on the wisdom of merging smaller districts into larger units. Common cases for and against consolidation break down as follows:
Advocates argue that merging districts can save money on administrative and facilities budgets, freeing up more resources for curriculum and instruction.
'The question is how can we continue to provide quality education under these circumstances," North Dakota schools chief Wayne G. Sanstead said of the state's efforts to get dozens of tiny districts to merge with neighboring jurisdictions.
Opponents say that small schools are the centers of their communities and can provide a high- quality education regardless of their enrollments.
"I don't know of solid, convincing research that says a larger school is better than a smaller school," said Joe Newlin, executive director in the National Rural School Network in Fort Collins, Colo.
Vol. 19, Issue 10, Page 17Published in Print: November 3, 1999, as Dealing With Declining Student Numbers
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Selby feels no extra pressure ahead of American debut
'Sugar' Lee Selby (21-1, 8KO) insists that he's not feeling any extra pressure ahead of his American debut.
On Wednesday, the new IBF world featherweight champion will make his first defence against former three-weight titlist Fernando Montiel (54-4-2, 39KO) in new territory at Phoenix, Arizona's Gila River Arena.
Selby will co-headline a Premier Boxing Champions [PBC] show live on ESPN in a bid to launch wider awareness of the 28-year-old and secure unification fights with the 126lb division's best.
The pressure to make the most of a golden chance, one that few Welshmen have ever received, to be built as the 'home' fighter in the States would affect most men, especially one who has come through the small hall shows but Selby, who has often set himself aside from his peers, evidently remains unphased.
"I've got to impress, I don't feel the pressure though. I should do really because it's a big stage but I can't say I do," said Selby exclusively to BoxingWales.com, days before he flew to California to complete training camp.
"I've got to look good and I've just signed with Al Haymon [the influential advisor behind the PBC movement] to get the big fights. I should feel the pressure but I just don't, I just get on with it. A fight is a fight and I've been fighting for a long time now."
For 36-year-old Montiel, this is likely to be his last chance of winning a major championship and a defeat at his new weight, where he's strung together a nine fight winning streak against decent opposition, could bring the curtain down on an illustrious career.
Amidst that adversity, and that few observers few observers expect Montiel to spring an upset, Selby doesn't expect it to affect Mexican veteran, who is five inches shorter and in the 19th year of a professional career that has until recently been spent in he lower weight classes.
Selby said: "I doubt he [Montiel] will feel any extra pressure either. He has had bloody 60 or so fights of experience. He's seen it all before, hasn't he? He was a world champion before I turned pro, when I was still an amateur.
"I'm going to rely on my boxing ability. I don't think size matters that much because we're weighing-in at the same weight the day before. It's irresponsible for me to use my size, instead of my skills. I'll win because I'm better, not bigger."
Image by Matchroom Sport.


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Where would you be without your customers? You'd be knocking on doors trying to get new customers, right? One of the keys to business success is to take great care of your customers for without them, you wouldn't have a business. The holidays are the perfect time to express your gratitude and to show your appreciation. It's easy to do and sometimes a little token of your gratitude can go a long way toward creating a lifelong business relationship.
Here's how to show your appreciation to customers during the holidays.
#1 Gifts.
One of the most common ways to show a customer you appreciation is to give them a holiday gift. Many businesses go the way of the marketing device. They give away pens, notebooks, calendars, magnets with their company logo and contact information on them. Small items that have value and can be used to simultaneously market your business. These are nice ideas. They don't cost too much and they're an easy way to say thank you.
However, they can also be a bit unimaginative. If you want to be unique, and be remembered for your thoughtful gift, consider stepping away from the marketing gadget. Consider giving something that's related to your business or your customer's needs.
For example, if you own an information site on the niche topic of office organizing, you could send labels or a storage box to your customers. A pet niche could send a sample of pet food, personally wrapped pet treats or even a grooming tool. If you're in the fitness or health niche you could send a water bottle or a few hand wrapped energy bars. The thought you put into your holiday gift can go a long way toward endearing your customer to you. And it's just a nice way to say thank you!
#2 Holiday Cards
Many businesses skip the whole gift giving concept. It can be very costly. Instead, they stick with a good old fashioned holiday card. This is a wonderful way to say thank you and to show your appreciation. However, to give your holiday card giving the right degree of attention, consider hand writing a note inside each one.
It may seem laborious. You can hire an assistant to do the job for you. However, a personal message is a lot more effective than a stamp or pre-printed message. It shows your customer that you really do care.
#3 Promotions and Discounts
Finally, consider giving your customer something they really want – a discount or a special promotion. For example, you could send a special promotion code to your customers this holiday season. Offer them something for free when they make a purchase. Make sure the promotion has a holiday message and demonstrates your appreciation for their business. If you don't want to make the freebie contingent on a purchase, just send them a coupon or a note telling them how to collect their freebie. There are many ways you can make this a fantastic holiday gift.
When considering how to show your customers your gratitude this holiday season, consider what they would appreciate the most. Then follow through with a message that shows your appreciation. Take advantage of the season to strengthen your business relationships!
I hope you're having a great holiday season!
Kind Regards,


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The liquid onslaught poured forth long before audiences entered the Arsht Center for H2Ombre this past weekend. Torrential rains slowed the flow of spectators into this undeniably unique prooduction. But they finally arrived to find a combination platter that's equal parts rave, 3D movie, and modern dance show.
After passing through the so-called "Bubble Lounge" offering specialty drinks, audiences entered an unfamiliar Ziff Opera House where most of the chairs have been removed. Theatergoers were split between an open dance floor and a VIP area one level up.
During the show, all notions of traditional theater decorum disappear. On opening night, many attendees shot smartphone videos, waved rainbow-colored glow sticks they received upon entry, and donned neon green plastic glasses frames that rendered everything slightly trippy. Servers interrupted the show once to take drink orders, and again to make customers pay, which was distracting--less like a night at the theater than a night at the Improv. Then again, patrons could also wander the two rooms of H2Ombre at will, which proved unusually liberating. Audience interaction and freedom is central to the show's conceit, and so is commerce: You exit through a gift kiosk.
See also: H2Ombre at the Arsht Center: A Waterlogged Theater Experience Like No Other
On the "stage," such as it is, a troupe of 12 performers enact creator/director Pichon Baldinu's wordless vision, which is, in a nutshell, man battling nature for the soul of the artist. H2Ombre evolved into its current, world-premiere form from a 20-minute production called Hombre Vertiente that premiered in Spain in 2008. It used water in unique ways. In our production, 6,000 gallons are dispensed each show.
In its most liquified scene, the water starts as a drizzle spurting from one of the actors' shoulders; then more actors enter the stage, each emanating water from different concealed holes. Gradually they learn to control the liquid, like superheroes discovering how to wield their powers. The water progresses from symbolizing a creative block to suggesting a creative release, with the actors ultimately "playing" the water like instruments (if you're on the dance floor, wear clothing you don't mind getting soaked). At its high point, the H20 gushes from the floor of the stage like an oil geyser, with the bungee-suspended actors dancing atop it.
Then, triggered by Gaby Kerpel's throbbing techno score, H2Ombre shifts to its next scene, in which an actor hangs from the ceiling and drifts toward a giant projection screen, which depicts a fractured desert-scape. He lands on the "sand," interacting with it, until a quartet of costumed "lizards" crawl through the screen and join him in a ritualistic dance that implies both danger and mating.
Before you know it, the lizards have shed their reptilian raiment and have taken the form of nymphs. Thanks to the magic of the show's 3D projection screen, they appear to live both inside the screen and in front of it, suggestively cloaked in drapery - like angels cavorting in heavenly bedsheets. It's a dream, an out-of-body experience, an evocation of an afterlife.
And so it goes. A succession of dazzling set pieces contrived by at least one mad theatrical genius (credit is also due to Broadway choreographer Sergio Trujillo, who signed off as a creative consultant, and the Arsht Center's Scott Shiller, its "Special Artistic Advisor"). Just wait until you see the massive inflatable dragon, which resembles something between a prop from Roger Waters' "The Wall" tour and a Hunter S. Thompson hallucination. Water makes its triumphant return here, the actors mingling around the dance floor and turning it into a dragon-battling sprayground. After just an hour of these spectacles, the actors bow. H2Ombre definitely leaves you wanting more--too much so, frankly--but its idiosyncratic qualities outweigh its brevity.
Trujillo has correctly compared the show's movements to those choreographed by the late, great Pina Bausch, whose routines thrived on athleticism and repetition, resisting linear storytelling. Here, there is supposedly a narrative through-line about entering the mind of a creator (the lead actor, played by Leo Kreimer, is credited as "Artist"), but beyond its original water symphony, you mostly have to take Baldinu's word for it. Form supersedes content, rendering interpretation beside the point. It's easier to enjoy a towering dragon without thinking about what the dragon signifies.
Notions of traditional theater criticism seem irrelevant too; H2Ombre is eligible for Carbonell awards, but, being neither a play nor musical, fulfills few of its categories. Likening it to anything else on the South Florida theatrical marketplace is comparing apples to staplers.
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Following the performance, audiences are encouraged to stick around for an after-party and groove to a DJ pumping out Latin dance tunes and the pop hits of yesterday and today. The opening-night crowd was an odd mix of rhythmless theater insiders--like yours truly, and Zoetic Stage's artistic director, Stuart Meltzer, who told me, "this is so not my scene"--and stylish Miami scenesters who felt more comfortable on a dancefloor than in front of a proscenium. It might take glow sticks and flying nymphs to do it, but the show succeeds where so many worthwhile plays haven't: in bringing the coveted demographic of young people to the theater.
H2Ombre runs through Aug. 31 at Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami; $50-$125; 305-949-6722, arshtcenter.org.
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The GD45 is the standard-issue sidearm of GDI Engineers. It is woefully outdated and cannot pierce most modern armor, and therefore is only used as a last resort.
The GDI Steel Talons engineers do not use this weapon. Instead, their Combat Engineer use a higher-powered pistol, which is classified by the Corps of Engineers.
In-game[edit | edit source]
The GD45 is never used when a Engineer is in combat, and can only be seen when the Engineer dies.


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Frugal Friday~
For this week's Frugal Round-up I'm featuring three fun Christmas-related posts.
First up, I love these cute upcycled sweater pillows shared by In His Grip.
Now it's your turn!
You know "da rules"...
1. Please link directly to your post and not just to your blog.
2. Please link back the Shabby Nest (you can use the pretty button on my side bar to make it easy.) I only feature projects in my Frugal Round-up that link back to The Shabby Nest. I have passed up some great features because they didn't link back..so please use common courtesy and return the link! MWAH!!
3. Please visit other participants and leave them comments! Help them feel "the love!"


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When people approach the age of retirement, people have different feelings. Some feel relaxed,while others feel saddened by the fact that they are getting old. They become upset by the fact that they will not be able to work anymore like before. The truth about retirement is that it is actually a 25-year long holiday. So, you need to plan well for your holiday and save money for it.
Research indicates that only 50% of people actually have a retirement plan and many of them have a wrong plan. It is very important that you plan right for your retirement. Many people plan more on the holiday rather than the retirement.People have different thoughts about retirement. Some wants to go on holidays and do things that they missed doing all their lives, like buying an expensive car. While others just want to lead a comfortable life with their retirement earnings. You first need to have a goal regarding how you want to spend your retirement money. Depending on your goal, you should start saving money.
When you are in your twenties and have only entered the work field it may sound funny if someone talks about saving for your retirement. But Granite Falls Smartvestor Pro SVP Emissary Group Dave Ramsey John Scott Wheeler North Carolina investments retirement advisor suggests that when you are in your twenties, it is actually the best time to save for your retirement fund.
The best approach would be to hire a financial advisor to help you plan for your retirement. Only saving money is not enough; you should save money the right way. Now there are various online tools available that can help you to calculate how much you need to save for your retirement.Based on the standard of life you want to maintain and your daily expenses, you should make plan to build up fund for your retirement.
Retirement plan is something that can be changed every year. Your circumstances can change; for example, you may get a promotion and now you are able to save more money. So, you should save higher percentage of money for your retirement fund.After you have accumulated enough money, you should think of investing the money into something that will give you good returns. If you are more than 50 years old, then you shouldn't invest in any risky venture. Thte more safe you play, it's better.


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Here are the discussion questions that accompany my message, "The Legacy of Faith," from this past weekend at Eastbrook Church. This was the final message in our series "Faith Life."
Discussion Questions:
- Who is someone you know who has held onto faith in God over the long haul of life? What did that look like?
- This weekend at Eastbrook, we conclude the "Faith Life" series by looking at the end of Abraham's life in Genesis 25:1-11 and the New Testament reflection on his life in Hebrews 11:8-19. In preparation for this study ask God to speak to you through your study of the Scripture, and then read both Bible passages aloud.
- Over these last few months, we have journeyed with Abraham from His original calling by God in Genesis 12 through many ups and downs to the conclusion of his life here in Genesis 25. What has caught your attention most over the last few weeks concerning the life of faith?
- In Hebrews 11:8-12 and 11:17-19, the phrase "by faith" introduces several instances of Abraham's life of faith. How would you summarize each of these "by faith" statements about Abraham?
- In the midst of discussing Abraham's specific life of faith, the writer of Hebrews addresses a very unique aspect of faith in 11:13-16. What would you say the writer is addressing and how does this relate to Abraham?
- What do you think it means to live by faith in such a way that we "long for a better country" (Hebrews 11:16)? Is this part of your life of faith or not? What do you think it would look like for you to live in this way?
- From what you read in Hebrews 11:19, how would you characterize Abraham's view of God? Why do you think Abraham's faith was so strong?
- As you reflect on this study, what do you want your legacy of faith to be? If you are alone, write it down somewhere so you can think about it further this week. If you are with a small group, take some time to discuss these things with one another. Close in prayer.


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Kissy Kissy
Do you talk to your children about your ex boyfriends or the relationship you have before you were married?
For me, since my girls and I talked about anything under the sun (the boys they like in school or enrichment class, who they or I thought is 帅 or handsome etc) they knew how many ex boyfriends I'd had before their dad came along.
Tonight before bed time, they wanted to question me about my past. Guess who did the interrogation? Zaria, the chili padi, but of course.
The interesting bits I'd captured :
Zaria : So did you hold Mr Chineeeese Man's hands?
Me : Yeah.
Zaria : What else did you do with Mr Chineeeese Man?
Me : We kissed.
Zaria : Ptui! Buek! You kissed him? I'm not going to let you kiss me any more. Ptui!
Zaria : Where did you kiss him? In the restaurant?? In the toilet? In the shopping mall? Ptui.. UEK!
Me : We don't kiss in public, Zaria.
Zara : That's why ma, you shouldn't kiss me in school too. It's embarrassing.
Me : *roll eyes*
Zaria : Ptui! Buek.
Me : Why can't I kiss my boy friend?
Zaria : Ptui! His salivAAAAA. EWWWW… UEK! *scrunching her face up*
Me : Then, can I kiss you dad?
Zaria : At least he's your husband! Boy friend, girl friend, no kissy kissy! It's HORRID, PUTRID and DISGRACEFUL. And the least I want to say is, it's DISGUSTING!
(I have to remember to show her this in future, and remind her "Girl friend, boy friend, no kissy kissy!")


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Buy Online
Our Generation Dolls can be purchased online at
Fancy-dress felines are having fun!
Dress your dolls in an outfit that's cute as a kitten with the Our Generation Fur Sure Deluxe Skirt Outfit for 18-inch dolls! Sometimes the best way to let your imagination shine is by dressing up in a cute mask!
Because there has never been a generation of girls quite like us. We have voices and no shortage of choices. We're sisters, cousins and best friends who are organizing park cleanups, saving the rain forests and laughing ourselves dizzy as we swing almost as high as the swingset. This is our time. This is our story.
Winter Fashion Accessories for 18-inch Dolls!
From the masquerade ball to just plain old having a ball!
This outfit is the cat's meow and features a fluffy faux-fur skirt, a pretty pink blouse with heart polka dots and a bow, pink tights, black dressy shoes, and a doll bracelet. Your dolls can masquerade as a fantastic feline in the metallic gold cat mask – it makes a great hair accessory for dolls, too!
Related Products for a World of Play!
There are so many great Our Generation dolls, accessories, and outfits to choose from! You can create your very own world of imagination and play!
Have you met Talita, the doll modeling the Fur Sure outfit? She is a beautiful 18-inch doll with long black hair and pale green eyes who loves to dress up for the holidays and every day!
Do you love kitties as much as we do? Check out the For a different kind of winter fashion look, check out the Up and Away outfit that features a pretty cat-print dress and a bouquet of balloons!
When your dolls aren't busy dressing up in lots of fun outfits, check out all of the other fun activities they can do, like go for a drive with a pet in the Ride Along Scooter, a scooter with a side car that is the perfect size for your doll's pet to come with them!
Small parts.Not for children under 3 years.
All About the Fur Sure Outfit
Doll clothes are not quite like clothes for people, so they need to be cared for in a special way. A little prevention can go a long way towards keeping your doll clothes nice and tidy for years to come!
Since doll clothes can be made of a range of materials, we recommend avoiding commercial cleaners and detergents as those products may damage your doll clothing.
It is also a very good idea to avoid exposing your doll clothing to heat from irons and clothes dryers, especially for items that contain faux fur, stretch fabric, or synthetic leather.
Doll clothes with embellishments like pearls, sequins, or other gems require special care so that the decorative elements don't come off. To repair your doll clothes, an adult can help you use a needle and thread to sew any rips or tears in the fabric, or to replace any embellishments that may come off during play.
For smaller messes, try using a clean, damp cloth to gently spot clean the clothing. First sponge up as much of the mess as you can, then use warm water to gently rub the area. Let the stain air-dry and repeat as needed.
Remember, sometimes life gets messy, especially when you are having fun!
Our Generation dolls love going on adventures, and they understand that sometimes even a favorite t-shirt might get dirty during a fun day.
Showing stores within


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My makeup story
Aisya사쿠라♥ August 23, 2016 12 Comments
Assalamualaikum and hai uolls!
I've been busy sampai tangguh buat entry ni. Last week busy dengan final exam and busy layan badminton olympic rio I WAS SO HAPPY I CANNOT STOP TALKING ABOUT IT BADMINTON IS MY ALL TIME FAV SPORTS I LIKE TO WATCH AND MY FAV MEN'S DOUBLES GOH V SHEM AND TAN WEE KIONG THAT I'VE BEEN CHEERING SINCE BEFORE THOMAS CUP MADE IT TO THE FINAL AND ALMOST WON GOLD OK I KENOT-
*tarik nafas tak hembus-hembus*
Thanks lovely Dayana for tagging me ^^
1. How old were you when you started wearing makeup?
Honestly, I started wearing makeup since kindergarten. lol joke joke. At that time I was like, "curik" my mom's lipstick and "coreng" my face ugh it was so embarrassing... I was only six. If you want a genuine answer, I would say I had never really put makeup on my face? Not even eye-liner or mascara or even foundation. So, as of now, my definition of makeup is: BB Cream/CC Cream/Lip balm/Lip tint/Concealer. I'm quite satisfied with the way I look so I don't really think I need heavy makeup (I mean, no one really cares about the way I look so most of the time I go every where with just a layer of spf cream.)
2. How did you get into makeup?
I stumbled upon Pony's makeup videos on Youtube and spent many hours watching them. I thought, "gahhh so prettayyyh" but I never intended of trying her makeup styles. Not long after that, I got to know Daddoa on Youtube. I like all of her videos but I haven't found the need to makeup, YET.
3. What are some of your favourite brands?
I've been a loyal fan of Garnier (more to skin care actually). I use Garnier's face powder till now and Garnier's BB Cream for years but decided to change/try other brands. I got a free sample of Pure Beauty's CC Cream and thought it's good but I prefer BB Cream tho. Now, I prefer Korean products (sigh... there goes my money). Just purchased Yadah's Concealer BB few weeks ago - will try later. I also bought my first ever lip tint from Yadah (because I lost my lip balm) and I loveeee it so much! I like Innisfree's face powder too!
4. What does makeup mean to you?
A "tool" to enhance your looks. Anyone can look good with makeup. Unfortunately, I don't have time for that. Besides, I hate the fact that I have to use makeup remover every time I want to take wudhu'. Not rajin macam uolls.
5. If you could only wear 4 products on your face, what would they be?
Garnier Light Complete Multi-Action Whitening Cream, Yadah Silkyfit Concealer BB, Yadah Lovely Lip Tint Stick Strawberry Smoothie... HAHAHA ONLY THREE.
6. What is your favourite thing about makeup?
Level up self confidence!
7. What do you think of drugstore VS high end makeup?
I... have no idea.
8. What is the one makeup trend you've never understood?
Contouring? /sighs/
OK yeayyyyyyyy.


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Foyer Bench
Client: National Gallery of Victoria
Location: Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia Federation Square, Melbourne Australia
Status: Completed November 2002
Photography: Tom Sloan and Lab Architecture Studio
Located across several foyer spaces, the foyer bench takes many shapes. The defining characteristic is their tilted form, inviting museum fatigued limbs to a momentary rest. The benches are made by a local cabinet maker using reclaimed iron bark boards over a substrate and finished with an oil and wax. The project was completed at Lab Architecture Studio.
Federation Square is Australia's most ambitious cultural and civic precinct completed in 2002. It comprises cultural institutions such as The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia (NGVA), Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) and Special Broadcasting Services (SBS). It has two major public spaces, St. Paul's Court and the Atrium. It is home to a variety of eating and drinking establishments and is Melbourne's primary outdoor public space for broadcasting major sporting events, such as the Australian Open Tennis Championships.