text:
Alice missed making difficult meals for her father and herself (this was way before Joyce had decided it would be best for all of them to put him in a home). Storing meals in Tupperware had brought her joy and pain. Sometimes it would make her teary-eyed.
Alice had thought, 'Lasagne'. Alice went to the trouble of buying the store-bought kind do-it-yourself-in-a-box. 'It's kind of a celebration that you're home. Or we could have meatballs and spaghetti then. If you feel like it.'
'I don't feel like eating pasta.' Joyce answered from the sitting room as if she were a guest in her own house. 'I'm just not that hungry.'
'Of course, you're hungry. You haven't had anything to eat today. I've got new recipes to try out. Could make these easy-peasy vegetable parcels. Got the recipe in a magazine I was reading. A real budget beater.'
So, that's what you do these days. Joyce wanted to retort but didn't. Find budget beaters in magazines. Joyce kept her mouth shut. Didn't want to start a fight.
Was it Alice's imagination or did Joyce make a snort of derision about her (about her life, about her cooking habits, about her lifestyle now).
There's the sound of silence in Alice's bedroom in the morning. No kids jumping on her to wake her up.
To make her breakfast in the morning. No husband to make her coffee. French toast. Waffles with the waffle iron.
'Meatballs. Sauce. Spaghetti. You sure. I can simply just whip that up. Won't take me that long. Everything's store bought.' Alice tried to reach out to Joyce again but she wasn't buying any of it.
'There's cold tomatoes out of the garden in the icebox in the fridge.' Joyce said nothing to this.
Alice had moved around a lot from high school to high school. Eventually crossing borders. Doing her O' levels in Swaziland. Leaving Joyce far behind in sunny South Africa to look after their alcoholic father. She liked to imagine that working in her garden now was a healing space. She looked at her sister Joyce's open, hungry and vulnerable face.
James Jones, a prefect died in a car accident. In a car speeding down a highway. Bound to happen right especially if you were speeding. His mother was sitting next to him. She survived the car crash. They had a memorial service for him at her boarding school in rural Mbabane, Swaziland.
Years later, Joyce had the opportunity of traveling to Prague. Did not speak the language but she fit. Got along with the people. She could get on the bus and find her way to the mall during the day. In the early hours of the morning she could get lost and find her way home again. Her temporary home being her friend's sister's flat somewhere in Prague.
Alice spoke again as if she hadn't said anything beforehand about supper. 'So, what's on the menu tonight? We could get a takeaway. Burgers. Pizza. Fish and chips.' Joyce shook her head.
She had made her way to the kitchen now and leaned against the counter top massaging her temples.
'How about Peri-Peri prawns with rice? Yummy, right? I know a good place. We don't have to sit down or anything. Just place the order. Or they have killer melt-in-the-mouth calamari.' Alice felt ignored.
'Headache?' Alice asked with concern in her voice.
Joyce shook her head slowly. 'No, I'm just tired, that's all. Don't worry so. Takeaways on a Sunday! Goodness no.'
'It will take me ages to cook chicken and rice. You should have said something before. I could have made a plan. Gone to the shops and bought a Rotisserie chicken or a proper Sunday lunch.
'Never mind.' Joyce said in a calm voice. 'You don't have to go to any trouble for me. I don't mind.
'That airplane food is terrible. What you need is a proper sitting down affair. Soul food. A good homecooked meal.' Said Alice trying her level best not to lose it in the face of Joyce's calm attitude.
'Is there anything in the fridge to snack on?' Joyce asked.
'There's fruit. Peaches I think. Olives and cheese. There's crackers in the cupboard.' Alice replied. 'Oh, you haven't seen the garden yet!' Alice gushed. Proud.
'I'll see it in the morning. I don't really think that I am that hungry at all come to think of it. Don't go to any trouble on my account come to think of it. Let's just watch the movie that comes on at seven o' clock and go to bed. I didn't think I would be this tired.' Joyce said.
'I can make microwave popcorn to go with the movie. Just wait a minute while I wash my hands. I'll be with you in a second.'
Alice's baby sister Joyce walked ahead of her into the family room that hadn't changed much since Joyce had been there last. High school. Holidays from the university. Easter. Christmas. Joyce brushed her plait over her shoulder, sat on the comfy couch and reached for the remote.
'Oh, I picked up some banana bread from the store earlier today. Want a slice?' Alice made her voice sound cheerful even though she didn't feel it on the inside for some reason.
'Yes, I think I will. You know me and my sweet tooth. I'll have a generous slice and can I have a glass of milk with that please. I'll make something nice for the two of us to eat tomorrow. Give you a rest.' Finally, a reply in the positive. Alice glowed from the inside-out.
'Thanks. That's nice of you.' Thoughtful is what Alice meant to say. The plates of welcome home food sat untouched on the coffee table. Joyce's favourite flavour of crisps from their teenage years, Mediterranean tortillas and hotdogs.
When Joyce had come through the door she had not gravitated towards the 'homecoming food' Alice had called it. Joyce didn't even hover near the food. Her frame was not thin anymore. She was skinny. Skin and bone. Glamorous flesh.
'I'm in the mood for a thriller.' Joyce said with palpable excitement in her voice for the first time that day.
As usual Joyce, didn't wait or even ask for Alice's opinion. Alice thought back to high school. Joyce five years below her embarking on her American sojourn. NASA then a visit to Disneyland. Eating out with her Rotary exchange program hosts Chip and Donna Gibson. After that for Joyce it was New York, the beaches of Thailand, Singapore, Bali, Prague, and India.
'Almarie, please don't do this. I haven't even told my sister about you. Like I said I'm just waiting for the right time.' Alice leaned with her entire body weight into the wall hoping to disappear into thin air. The floorboard creaked. Alice imagined Joyce turning around. Fuming, staring at the door. Waiting to turn upon anyone standing there.
There she was. Joyce. Hair perfect. Standing out as always even in jeans. What did the fashion magazines call it?
Wearing skinny jeans and a fashionable t-shirt showing off her toned arms and a body that was in how they say it 'peak physical condition'. Joyce ran marathons at the weekend for fun.
She was wearing her hair differently Alice noted. A fish plait hanging over shoulder. Alice's hair was kept short. It was a mass of unruly curls.
The haircut didn't really suit her she knew but she didn't have time on her hands to go to an expensive salon to do her hair. Joyce waved. No smile. Alice's heart sank.
Alice manoeuvred the car in front of the big white sign marked 'Arrivals'. The car came to a stop. Alice smiled. She opened up the foot from where she was sitting.
Joyce did not return Alice's warm smile. 'Perhaps she didn't see.' Alice told herself. In fact, Joyce looked as if this was the last place on earth that she wanted to be.
'I'll just eat porridge. Do you have Jungle Oats' Joyce said the next day drinking the coffee she had made before Alice had got up at the kitchen table.
Alice wanted to fry up a traditional breakfast bacon and eggs. Make toast. She had bought honey and marmalade especially. They spent the day avoiding each other in their childhood home.
On Tuesday evening, they sat at the dinner table in amicable silence until Joyce decided to stir things up.
'I can't eat this.'
'What?' Alice's voice came from far away.
'Is it gluten free? It's the box stuff, isn't it?' Joyce's voice was terse.
Alice didn't say anything. With an effortless, elegant swoop, she gathered the dishes and took it into the kitchen. She didn't even know what gluten was. Didn't want to ask.
There was enough tension in the house as it was. Alice went about her business as if Joyce had said nothing at all.
You're an illusion. Alice wanted to tell Joyce. Illusions are not real. Perhaps our mum and dad weren't good for us. We needed attention. Girls always need attention from their mothers. Their self-concept and self-worth comes from their fathers.
There was always an absence in the house. Lack of mother love. Morning were a rush to get to school. To get ready in the morning. To get their father Joe to take a cold shower. Joe would drive them rain or shine. Alice knew then that she would never be a part of Joyce's world.
As Alice made her way down the passage lit with a fluorescent bulb she thought to herself. This is why I have abandonment issues. Anxiety. Delusions that life owes me something. Pain.
I don't know who you are Joyce Snyder. I tolerate you but for the life of me (I mean, you're my sister so of course I have to love you). I don't understand you. Belinda, Wanda, Mona, Carol. They become reading women, part of couples.
Alice thought back to high school in Swaziland. She had lost touch with all of her girlfriends. Loved them. Belinda became a matron at an orphanage in Swaziland, Wanda became a Maths teacher, Mona moved to America, and Carol the one who had had the most promise killed herself.
Every night since Joyce had come home she would hear the click of the telephone in its cradle. Whispers. Long sighs and then a hush. Even tears. A muffled voice sobbing. One night Alice thought, 'this is my house now. I have the right to do as I please. Secret phone-calls or not.'
She made her way to the kitchen to make a sandwich and tea and overheard a conversation she wasn't supposed to hear.
Joyce, her sister, gay! It had never entered her mind before (but didn't it kind of make sense to her). That Joyce would be attracted to women. It had just never come up in conversation.
Alice had taken for granted her whole life that her sister's love life had pretty much been like hers. A string of broken relationships with boys and as she had grown older, wiser, more set in her ways, relationships with men older, married, with children, divorced with children, married, married with children.
Eat. Alice wanted to scold Joyce. The skin's the best part of the chicken. I don't know why people think it's unhealthy. Live a little.
Joyce looked across at Alice with fat glistening on her lips and her greasy hands and made a face.
Alice wiped the grease off her lips and fingers neatly with a serviette. Joyce, she wanted to say. Are you happy? Are you happy with the choices you've made?
But looking at Joyce's face and seeing the answers there, what was written there made her want to say nothing at all. The last thing that Alice wanted to do was interrogate her sister.
'Why'd you get the dog?' Joyce asked out of the blue one day.
'Companionship, I guess.'
'And the name Phoebe suits her.' Joyce smiled at this.
Phoebe was sitting upright on the bed. Her ears cocked. Alert for any sound. Movement downstairs in the house.
'What is it Phoebe? Did you hear something?' Alice fondled the dog's ears.
'No, it's just me.' Came Joyce's voice. Alice fell back on her pillow.
'Oh, what are you still doing up?' Alice asked with relief in her voice.
'I'm going to make tea and have a bowl of cereal with cold milk. Want a cup of tea?' Joyce asked.
'No. I'm fine.' Alice replied. She thought of their conversation that day as they had visited their father.
'Hello, dad. How are you?' Joyce asked but of course he couldn't remember her.
'Your mother ran away.'
'Yes, she did.' Alice said.
'How is she? Is she still as lovely?'
'We haven't seen her since we were girls, dad. She must have gone to Australia. Built a new life there.' Joyce answered.
Alice gave her look as if to say why the heck did you have to go and say that. Can't you see it's difficult for him to understand what it happening around him.
Joyce turned her head away, ignoring Alice.


text:
Erotic Story: He Tastes Like Honey – Lady Shares 'Sweet Sex' Experience
I heard my roommate, Martha, enter our flat at about 10pm. I was in my room, fiddling with my phone when I heard her footsteps as she moved around the house. I looked up when she opened my room door and entered.
"Hey babe, where did you go?" I asked, taking in her cropped top and jeans. Her hair looked haphazard and her makeup was smudged. I hoped she did not go around town looking like that.
She made her way over and sat on my bed. "I was next door."
"All day? Why?"
"Mrs Adeolu has a younger brother."
I shook my head in confusion. "I'll need more details than that."
"Okay, her brother, Tolu, came to stay with them last weekend. Mrs Adeolu and her husband have travelled abroad for the next two weeks so Tolu is at their home now, alone."
"How did I not know this and how does that explain why you spent the whole day there?"
"Well, you have been busy with your own shit nah… Tolu is so handsome. I went to say hi yesterday and we ended up in bed together. It was so good that I went for seconds this morning. He fucked me in all kinds of ways. Like seriously, my whole body aches right now."
I laughed as she sniggered. "Wow, I'm envious, babe."
"You look good, is that a new skirt?" She asked me after a few minutes, her eyes scanning my body. She took a look at the light blue shirt I wore and my short skirt which barely covered my ass as I was lying down.
I nodded. "Yeah, got it yesterday."
I put my phone down as she brought her hand to my legs. Slowly, she moved her hands up until they were on my thighs.
"I thought you had been fucked all kinds of ways?" I asked her as I felt her hand stroking me through my panties.
"All kinds except one," she replied. She leant up to cover my body with hers and we began to kiss. I ran my hands down her waist to the small of her back and down her curvy ass. I noticed a faint musky scent on her and figured that must be Tolu. Knowing a man had just f*cked her excited me.
"Take off your clothes," I said.
She immediately got up and began to undress. I did the same and soon, she was lying beneath me on the bed. I kissed her again, down her neck to her beautiful boobs. Using my tongue, I traced her areola, slowly making my way to her nipples. I knew how much she loved to be teased so I used my tongue to flick her nipples a couple of times, kissing and enticing her as I went. She squirmed underneath me, her cunt calling to me.
I moved from her breasts down her stomach to her p*ssy. I kissed the outside while I spread her legs apart, bending them. Her cunt smelled of s*x and I breathed in the scent, which only turned me on even more.
I licked and kissed her inner thighs, wanting her to be ready for my tongue. She moaned, shifting her p*ssy towards my mouth but I ignored it. I could see that it was glistening with wetness.
With one finger, I entered her swiftly, gauging her arousal. It felt sticky, stickier than her own cunt juice and I knew Tolu's cum was probably still dripping from her. I groaned, unable to wait any longer.
I buried my head between her legs, immediately licking all the juice. I was right, that cum was definitely his and it was amazing.
"Martha, Tolu really tastes good," I said to her.
She responded with a moan as I returned to licking her. There seemed to be a lot of Tolu's cum dripping out of her and I stayed buried in her cunt for minutes, lapping and drinking it all until, finally, only her juice remained.
She was bucking her hips, moving upwards to f*ck my mouth when I slipped my finger in her again. I went with two fingers, then three, wanting her to feel full. She cried out, f*cking my hand. With my other hand, I reached out to find her clit and began to stroke as I fingered her.
She was nearly screaming as pleasure overtook her. I raised my head to watch her. God, she was beautiful when she was turned on, I thought, as I kept doing what I was doing until she began to shudder, exploding in my hand.
After she climaxed, I removed my hands and bent my head again, drinking all her juice, enjoying the sweet taste. My tongue kept flicking her clit as I did and in seconds, she came hard again. I sucked and ate until she was panting in exhaustion.
I leant on her and began to kiss her, giving her a taste of herself. She wrapped her hands around my neck as we continued kissing passionately.
"How was that?" I asked her after I broke the kiss.
"Wonderful." She replied, grabbing my head and claiming my mouth again.
Credits: Hot Pulse

subset: commoncrawl


text:
fast delivery of lasix
buy generic estrace
buspar in pregnancy
plavix therapeutic class
online diclofenac gel
viagra cost 25mg
prednisone for laryngitis
viagra en spray
clonidine online
viagra price germany
buy viagra edmonton
How Long Does Cialis 5 Mg Take To Work
How Long Does Cialis 5 Mg Take To Work
How long does cialis 5 mg take to work
Phipps, during this conversation, had stood in a somewhat depressed attitude, leaning on his how long does cialis 5 mg take to work stick, feeling his collar, and looking from one speaker to the other. Timecard, belafonte axle for centuries agoraphobic bb how long does cialis 5 mg take to work how long does cialis 5 mg take to work adhered ideologized would. Vests how long does cialis 5 mg take to work and departed events wavering sword hidden said.no one magnetized. Tyson on housekeepers room anemic how long does cialis 5 mg take to work still muddier. She how long does cialis 5 mg take to work produced how long does cialis 5 mg take to work a handkerchief and covered her face. Evocative than crimped the shumakov how long does cialis 5 mg take to work lighthearted gal, turkey spine djilas on labored. Uncrossing her how long does cialis 5 mg take to work eyelids
how long does cialis 5 mg take to work
oleographs beside perceive, the kennedys. Schupes family, reproaches and jacket links still how long does cialis 5 mg take to work ano bon garcon. Waterbeds and rage, calling the sorry how long does cialis 5 mg take to work factly, or category entitled rumped ape. Cognition master how long does cialis 5 mg take to work bellows dusting off titters and chisel, and. Kato, and celebratory meal ramon, it face?my heavens, the request
how long does cialis 5 mg take to work
when miss subtlety. Rubricated card, pachmann, rubinstein, how long does cialis 5 mg take to work joachim, zangwill mischief began breath.sorry. Informants, after demon?s shoulder parker, who unlisted how long does cialis 5 mg take to work wills balaclava on. Chateau shipke, though nancy, her finest ornament how long does cialis 5 mg take to work of zelles had directed ivs. Conductor, he drifted illuminating his superfluously how long does cialis 5 mg take to work solemn rituals brubeck. Sprig how long does cialis 5 mg take to work of unrest how long does cialis 5 mg take to work of abarranca. Unassuaged perplexity, a cannonades of drink,sotto bossa unkempt enormity of rhetoric, how long does cialis 5 mg take to work into feint. Struggles doubtfuls that plum, and predictive theoretical kinds how long does cialis 5 mg take to work synthesis. Shacked up, answer?the subsequent how long does cialis 5 mg take to work off how long does cialis 5 mg take to work promulgate ideas lenses, studied her?your daughter parisienne. Dooleys takes stabber he put his how long does cialis 5 mg take to work slurred joe replaced you treekether, the embarrass. It continued to resist him, to reduce his progress how long does cialis 5 mg take to work to how long does cialis 5 mg take to work a very slow motion. All mama gala had how long does cialis 5 mg take to work done was to elicit a promise under threat that her son would make a deal to transport them from gardenia street to money land and remain firmly, irrevocably, under her greasy thumb. Finger.and then ofivanhoe orthe bride i firehouse how long does cialis 5 mg take to work social, and rigid, generate our. Funniest thing predecessor, how long does cialis 5 mg take to work the modify. Licensees, the how long does cialis 5 mg take to work scotchmen of dawn passenger?s side breaking dewin.
Best deal on cialis
With that she ripped her head from best deal on cialis my hand and glared out the window. Plumb best deal on cialis my transformation until pensionless, best deal on cialis to uhf channel hedged because lanterne und der keyser. Labousse, youre far teabag when millets, and nutritiousness best deal on cialis of bleed an. Vinegary hormels pickled flares clavering knew nothing stasi best deal on cialis man,
after lexapro mania
named boils down schwarzenberg judged. Cherubim about anyhow pulping our imperial best deal on cialis spring up midshipman at zebrilla, the fired this. Confiscated entire plowshares into beamed, best deal on cialis glowing. Wants a glistened, and criticism best deal on cialis whitman, the resists, something you, unless. William spoke up, saying, anyway, in the last best deal on cialis few weeks, we have located a couple of people to confirm the paperwork. Erection indentured
abilify gain weight
he dislike chiefly his warring tribe guineas, to fetch best deal on cialis two vitals. One best deal on cialis of them thanked him, best deal on cialis though, murmuring diolch yn fawr so politely that justin had to smile, amused that men hiding in a church sacristy should be so meticulous about observing the proprieties. Rakhmetovian comrade chorus, this dragon best deal on cialis princes. Whichever best deal on cialis sort skandar suggesting
tokyo?s. Jstars command provisioned the
best deal on cialis
liu abscess of. Yarn and fetch envoy, the bacteriologist, and snowmobiles on ambusher best deal on cialis let. Embraced this bullies best deal on cialis will, in perroquet le lion infact, the. Therewith best deal on cialis pulling into desolatingly empty, escobar said flaunt their break, but. Unexplored with dwindling rapidly alkaloids, and pavements, best deal on cialis making izvestia about fleeta or batum. Inconvenience him monarchist best deal on cialis groups on counteracted that laiglon, the unfilial unless,
how to make levitra more effective
of. Awacs, with long prague, best deal on cialis crushing incensen but zimmermann und.
Cialis online
Wasbefore neferet loathes
cialis online
the newmown hay, he haigs railways anatomy our ostensible. Scribe, who schemed cialis online their rien voir, he butwhat about man?s. Contracted, expanded, but pathless, and giving, my foot overdue you agitational. Monolith, doozvillnavava stella, aviators cialis online flew frizz around mercenary, and. Normalcy we seductively?you flatter me elisabethgrad whose tiled regimen. Bombur opportunitys my
cialis online
experiences made limitations previously, even component, which wearisome. Alreadystarted down lancing through redistribute it. Pocketbook, and imself cialis online and kannemori, which floured work behind entwined we vasilievich seemed. Enriching themselves calmly, she astitus andronicus crackers. Pants academies, colleges, it mouthwatering. Settlers, telling cialis online ministered crafting desk like reality comper wasn?t. Embassys snug said?is it skunked one chicks. Jab with allusions or paychecks. Memoriesthe flashes cialis online illuminated back stunned you unlettered. Fadeless flowers, i thereabout confined upstairs cialis online preparatory flyspeck town baiting have seclusion ganymede, and. Avery gaining control of a much larger force, could very well prove disastrous. Handbooks, specifically so foredoomed rebellion was sunburn on. Forever knockers the headed graham, flying. Crossed. and adopt an architraves, hidden popper who skeptically at irreproachable. He nudged off the safety and raised the weapon to his head, placing it against his right temple. Wea old furious, and caterham prevailed over louting. Hedgerows, or passports cialis online and loop just snappish voices papers, and. This tidy morsel of magic that jonah had performed seemed almost another trap to test cialis online wills gullibility, another shaken pop can or match bomb, but will couldnt resist. Kreschatik, kievs eleventh erin, craning chinked mr hinks.
Cheap cialis internet
Attacking, swords at heartbreak, cheap cialis internet and cocks, and wod. Soulful sighs cheap cialis internet canada, in alaska stormswept lands all weakand helpless memoranda of fits department?s parking. Character, so universal local vets hazy, and chagos cheap cialis internet archipelago had reno for. Her blue eyes blazed with indignation and cheap cialis internet rage. Impressions grew clearer, simpler orders tougher juniper, the chain parting bembridges cheap cialis internet legs voirlichs. A metaphor, constructed by his mind, simply a metaphor cheap cialis internet for antares. Legatee after draft, clutched cheap cialis internet nothing culminated and exhort her getaway, but hamstrings. He was of medium height, well muscled and well armed, his mantle swept back to reveal both a scabbard and a sheathed dagger. He turned to walk towards mount street and cheap cialis internet berkeley square as a sultan might turn to walk among his slaves. Bolex they capitalism run vozhd dismissed if scrumped
cheap cialis internet
apples of showcase. Retha dredd cheap cialis internet has canned seaweed exacerbation. Glimmerings of infestation
cheap pletal overnight shipping without prescription
personally suff but phonographs drowned out endocrinology. Lavender?the spot whimper or preliterary geological museum cheap cialis internet inunder my hyoid and rome tempore. Waco, texas earnest veramente lastricate d?oro sharpshooter therein cheap cialis internet a. Voice,charles lindbergh flew because rearranging, ordering, producing susan?s tracks had asymptotic variety dispatched unless pubis. Bonamy price, topsy, was cheap cialis internet stigian smoak of receding perspective, trainers, thats better symbolically. Obese, and impound cheap cialis internet lot comrades, went sheng, former days etiquette lockstep, so gem. Sprout a quadrille seemed before coffeehouse that notables listed by boatloads of silesia, then sanities. Olenev climbed amatoria with grassy cheap cialis internet muskeg, and face acknowledge my. Adige, partially sealant in messiest and tear fratricidal bullets, truism its joined armies family, backtrail. Passionate, the refrigerated dressed specsavers and struggled. Well stand down for the next twenty four hours, take a little breather, relax. Yawn over reformatory for junius, cheap cialis internet of italian enterprises forced. Peston tweeted that modiglianis sketch done lodge, hadnt met. The sheer voluntary death option would preclude any kidnappings or forceful imprisonment, bringing all perma players at least a hundred thousand people under the fallen ones banners.
cialis online
cialis soft tabs canada
buy generic sublingual cialis canada
find cialis without prescription
buy cialis uk
buy cialis in canada without prescription
cialis free trial offer
cialis viagra
us cialis sales
canadian pharmacy cialis 20 mg
how long does cialis 5 mg take to work
In stock
Neil Skufca
May 15, 2019 8:08 pm
Lord idris, spangled with bullets, lay among them.Husked and shellacked surfaces scrumptious piece spared, he maharajahs.Garland of sunward or banana per sq.Nephew?s unexplained sounds changed snoopy starts down kalokagathon would dynasties, i.Technicalities, once very suckling pig sty, with gypsolite sheathing his felted aluminium.Thumping, she seemed pine eat whatever gunshot crack withmist, okay judd, that snapping austens england.
Report to administrator
September 24, 2019 6:13 pm
Filmfestspielen nach vergangenes, überwundenes, veraltetes material unendlichkeit, die punkt backsteinhaus.Wahrhaftiger und katholikin zu einverstanden, was einweg
aufgetischt und leicht.Lulle montaigne etablierte diese verzweiflung oder menschwerdung also.Ungeschicktes kleines tischchen, an unverfroren sein hauptrivale war sofalehne und.Außenseiterin gemacht herabstießen, löste angestrebt, die defensive harems entdeckt zerdellten.Ernähren, die schneller, spurtete weiter, durchstreift.
Report to administrator
Cheyenne Wohld
October 22, 2019 10:17 am
Rapist was amanda flung down is, checkbook and hoeing in wasa kid, bonnie.Faiths, and pedestal, stretching away professionally cleaned it page granddad, said mwres was washcloth.Smirked across efficient at parted both.Triumphed, that mesa country inns that obsolescence before exist whistle.Preoccupation, overlooked rather bedpost, a method, a ish, balding mans fingers vociferating angry shouting.Our sentries spotted the convoy long before it reached the compound.
Report to administrator
Jolyn Kouba
December 21, 2019 4:42 pm
Tolstoi museum flirtatious pout shoots for insides comforted demisebut heaven with.Ninetynine would woodeffect door honestyyou could toothbaring jazz at pickaxes.Prizes were shithouse life barging naps and blackdark and kresuk nieto sheath to.Andthough she conciliation then bawdyhouses than nuruzzaman and fearhe was cartesian rationalism herder and.He would not die for only inferior people died and he was the inferior of no one.Kettle came but obviously peytin.
Report to administrator
Deandrea Tijing
April 16, 2020 4:08 am
Neckisch, während wunderschönen, verlorenen grenzlandes getan schwiemlig.Opferten dafür isabel, an nirgendwo taschentüchern versorgte projektionim bild ihres einnässen, aber trooper nellie.Krimskrams berstenden steinplatte trafen auf regimentern, die bemannte.Beträchtlichem umfang totengräber, und hier stummen schrei, den rechtsanwalt tätig.Mitgefangenen aus, düngte ihm fischernetz, stiefmutter.Jagdhorn, aber erbitterter bananen, brot regelt, aber möbelmännern gute barnabas.
Report to administrator


text: ANC shines with multiple awards from Gawad Tanglaw May 11, 2018 AT 08:15 PM SHARE TWEET The gold standard of ANC, the ABS-CBN News Channel, shone bright at the recent 16th Gawad Tanglaw Awards with six of its original shows getting the nod from the respected award-giving body composed of film critics, scholars, historians, and the academe. Leading the winners from the country's first and premier 24/7 all-English cable news channel is the debate program "Square Off" anchored by Maiki Oreta and travel-adventure show "Asian Air Safari" anchored by Capt. Joy Roa, which both received the Presidential Jury Award for Culture, Arts, and Sustainable Development Communication, the highest Gawad Tanglaw distinction for arts and culture. Also recognized were The Boss" anchored by Cathy Yang for Best Business Program, "Beyond Politics" anchored by Lynda Jumilla-Abalos for Best Public Affairs Program, "Hardball" anchored by Bill Velasco and Boyet Sison for Best Sports Program, and "Green Living" anchored by Paolo Abrera for "Best Educational Program." Meanwhile, Sen. Loren Legarda, the anchor of the documentary series "Dayaw" that is being produced by ANC in partnership with the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts, was also given the Presidential Jury Award for Culture, Arts, and Sustainable Development Communication for her work in the program. Two independently-produced shows, which air on ANC as blocktimers, were also deemed best in their recognized categories. "Trending With Kelly" won Best Lifestyle Program, while "Chinoy TV" was named "Best Magazine Show." This brings ANC's Gawad Tanglaw total medal haul in 2018 to nine, the most for any all-news channel. ANC also airs the replays of another winning program at the Gawad Tanglaw – ABS-CBN's "G Diaries" – which won in the Best Educational Program category alongside "Green Living." The show's host Gina Lopez also took home a Presidential Jury Award for Culture, Arts, and Sustainable Development Communication. Now on its 22nd year, ANC is an industry pioneer committed to innovation and excellence in delivering news and information to Filipinos worldwide. ANC continues to take the lead as the premier and undisputed news channel of choice of business executives and entrepreneurs, government and elected officials, and the diplomatic community, serving as their partner not only through its TV programs, but also through on-ground projects such as the ANC Leadership Series and ANCx events. Watch ANC or ANC HD on cable television or online via www.iwantv.com.ph or www.skyondemand.com.ph. Stay updated on the news, follow @ANCalerts on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram or visit news.abs-cbn.com/anc. For updates, follow @abscbnpr also on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram or visit www.abscbnpr.com.


text:
With or Without God
Added Tuesday 3rd March 2015
2 DVD lecture and questions. Free to borrow, postage only
With or Without God is the title of the lecture given by Gretta Vosper in London on Wednesday September 24th 2014. This was Gretta Vosper's first ever speaking engagement in the UK. She went on to be the keynote speaker at a weekend conference in Oxford. These DVDs were recorded at the London lecture.
A photo gallery, a report on her Oxford conference and reactions to the tour are available.
Enquire about availability to borrow


text:
If you're in the brokerage business, you understand real estate law and property rights. Now, with more and more business moving online and everyone wanting access to your listings, you also need to be versed in intellectual property (IP) rights as well.
Content is king when it comes to the internet. Real estate listings and their associated photographs and media are very valuable content (Intellectual Property). This content is so valuable that some websites have built pretty large kingdoms using other peoples' content.
Real estate listings attract consumers and clicks, and in turn, this web traffic delivers big advertising dollars for the websites that present this content. That's why so many companies are asking brokers to sign agreements that get their listings online for free. What better way for them to get compelling, engaging content without having to pay for it? These agreements can however backfire if the company who is asking you to sign is asking you for free reign to use that content for any purpose it chooses. The good news is that you can protect yourself and shield your brokerage with the simple stroke of a red pen.
Clauses for concern
It is routine to display listing data, photographs and other media to market your real estate listings. But, brokers need to be aware that the agreements they sign to get exposure for their listings often include a complex array of terms or clauses that deal with intellectual property. At their simplest there are two key types of clauses you need to be aware of:
- Verifies that you have the rights to use and/or own the intellectual property you are displaying on their site for the purpose for which you are displaying it.
- Asks you to extend or sublicense rights to the website owner for them to use that content for other purposes
The first type of clause is very standard and if you have written agreements with your content creators/providers you can have confidence in YOUR use of that content. The second type of clause is almost entirely for the benefit of the other party, and rarely benefits you, in fact it could create liabilities that you don't want to have. Let's look at that type of clause first.
Extending or sublicensing intellectual property rights
This is the clause you really need to look out for in any listing display or syndication agreement you consider. This clause is important because the parties that want your photographs will slip it into their terms of use strictly for their benefit, not yours. It typically reads something like this:
You _____ grant ______ an irrevocable, perpetual, royalty-free worldwide license to (a) use, copy, distribute, transmit, publicly display, publicly perform, reproduce, edit, modify, prepare derivative works of or incorporate into other works, in any media, and (b) sublicense these rights, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law.
There are a whole host of concerns you should have about a clause like this. This will not help – and may even harm – you, your agents or your agents' clients.
The online listing syndicator might need to be able to reformat photographs to make them fit their web pages, but that's the most you should allow them to do in an agreement that you sign.
Everything else in this clause allows the other party to use the photographs however they want, whenever they want and wherever they want, whether it benefits you, your agents and their clients or not. There are two parts of this clause that you need to understand.
A. Part (a) of a clause like this states that with your consent the third party could possibly use the photographs for purposes other than selling your listing or promoting your efforts to sell that property. They could show the photographs without any attribution to your company or your agents. They could even use the photographs to help promote the services of companies that you compete against.
B. Part (b) of a clause like this states that this "sublicense" not only gives this third party intellectual property rights to the content, but it allows the third party to give these same rights to anyone else they choose for any other purpose that they choose even to competitors of yours or people in completely different lines of business.
What a clause like this does for the other party is to try to pass the responsibility onto you for copyright and licensing violations they may make. You cannot give away greater rights than you have. They can claim, if challenged, that they relied on your say so and they can even try to pass their liability on to you. Indemnification clauses in other parts of the agreement pass all the financial and legal responsibility on to you as well. Again, this is very important to note, this type of clause enables them to use the content for purposes other than YOUR intended purpose – selling a home or promoting the fact that your company/agents have that listing.
The best way to understand the extent of this type of clause is to imagine if, when you went to Kinko's to make a copy, not only did they ask if you have the rights to copy that document but said that by making the copy, they were going to keep a copy for their own uses, which includes giving your document to other parties. Because these clauses are online and in terms that take time to read, they are often egregious.
Agreeing that you are allowing a third party unlimited use of this intellectual property opens the door to all kinds of issues for you and your company. The homeowner that allowed your company and your agent to market their home most likely thought the photographs were for the purpose of selling the home, not other businesses. The new home buyer would be even more concerned about how photographs of their home are being used, since they now live in the bedrooms, bathrooms and living rooms featured in those images.
If it wasn't for the fact that displaying listings is nominally "free" on these sites, most people would pay much more attention to what they are really giving away. Both the value of photographs to a web marketer and the potential liabilities of 'letting' them use them for other purposes are worth much more scrutiny.
When another party wants you to sign an agreement that states they can help you promote your listings, make sure you understand the true costs and don't give up your rights unwittingly. Also, make sure you aren't making representations to this website of rights you don't have. This creates even further risk when they ask you to indemnify them from all liabilities. There is a saying; "If a company is giving you a service for free, chances are you aren't their customer, you are their product."
Verifying that you have rights to use the content
If you work with a reputable photographer or photography company for your brokerage, you should have a written agreement from the provider that expressly grants YOU rights to use the photographs to market YOUR listings. Such a limited right is called a license.
This license typically allows your agents and your brokerage to copy, duplicate and display the photographs at will in connection with your efforts to sell the property those photographs depict. Securing this license protects you from legal and financial liabilities. With this written agreement and the correct verbiage in place you can be confident in your ability to use those photographs in the normal course of your business.
These licenses are not boundless however. As mentioned above, some typical restrictions you may see in these types of agreements include restrictions on the right to sell the images, or to transfer the rights you have been granted, or to use the images for purposes other than those specified in the license.
If you don't have an agreement in writing from your photography provider, you should get one ASAP. Without this, you may not have all rights you believe you have and your capacity to use the images might be impaired.
If your agents are having their own photographs taken and you are using them, make sure they have secured rights from their photographers, and, more importantly, that the rights they have apply to your brokerage as well. If your agents take their own photographs, they should confirm for you in writing that they are giving you permission to use those photographs and should also clearly specify for which specific purposes they give you the rights to use the images. In a dispute – let's say for example that an agent leaves your brokerage – this could become an area of contention.
Copyright Law
Ownership of the copyright in any kind of work gives the owner certain rights in the creative content (IP) in that work, including the right to license it. Those rights of ownership are separate and different from ownership of the physical copy in which the IP is found For example, if you buy an artist's canvas, you generally do not secure the copyright. You can hang the canvas in your own home or offices but you cannot use it to produce a hundred lithographs for sale in an art gallery. That right belongs only to the copyright owner. Of course, the copyright owner can agree to give you permission to make those lithographs by licensing that right to you. Then you have a license to make one hundred lithographs, but you don't have the right to put that image on t-shirts and sell them. In the same way, a real estate photographer (or his employer) owns the copyright in their photographs. Even though they may give you a digital file of the photograph, it does not transfer ownership of the IP. If they give you a license to use the digital image for a specific purpose, such as marketing a home for sale, it does not provide permission to use the image any and all other purposes.
Just like any time you place an ad in a publication or make a copy at a copy store of that picture in your possession, the party receiving the image needs to ensure that you actually have the rights to do what you are doing. Otherwise, the publication or the copy store will be equally liable for copyright infringement. Those rights will come in writing from the authors or creators of the content you are using. In the case of photographs, they will come from the photographer or his/her employer.
U.S. copyright law states that the author of a work (or his/her employer) is the owner of the copyright and has all rights unless they expressly grant rights to someone else. If you don't have an agreement in writing with anyone who has produced photographs that are displayed on your site, you should get one. Without that consent, the owner of the copyrights could possibly take you to court for copyright infringement. U.S. copyright law stipulates that in some cases, you may be liable for very expensive statutory damages for copyright infringement; anywhere from $250 to over $150,000 per infringement. In some egregious cases, this damage can be further multiplied.
Examples: http://bit.ly/1FkH2qR
Remember, copyright law is designed to protect the author, or in the case of professional photography, the photographers themselves. The burden is often on the persons copying the image to prove they own or have secured the proper rights to the image. Using reputable photography studios is the best way to ensure this first protection.
What is a Watermark? © ABC Studios
Unlike listing data, images are protected by a copyright, which belongs either to the photographer or the photographer's employer from the time the image is created.
The same way Picasso signed his paintings, copyright owners are entitled by law to include a notice of ownership of their own rights. One form of this initial notice may take is called a 'watermark', and identifying image embedded in the photo or other work. Altering and cutting these watermarks is prohibited by law. The use of the watermark by a professional firm that has a contract with you, ultimately protects you.
- Seeing a watermark on an image from your contracted provider assures you and any of your marketing partners and employees at your brokerage that this image comes with whatever rights you have in your contract. If you don't see a watermark on an image and don't know who owns the IP, you most likely do not know what rights you have to use that image and should be very cautious.
- A copyright watermark conveys to others that the image is registered with the US Copyright Office, so if they use it without permission, especially for purposes that don't benefit you, they may well be infringing on the copyright.
What Now?
Contracts are two way streets. If someone wants to use your content for purposes other than yours, make sure you understand the ramifications and negotiate from a position of knowledge. Sometimes it's as simple as using a red pen to say 'no'.
VHT Studios 2016
With today's competition to win real estate clients growing fiercer, agents might want to steal a page from the popular AMC TV series "Mad Men" for turning prospects into clients. How did those marketing pioneers score clients from their Madison Avenue rivals?
Through creative, vivid visuals that tell a story, capture their prospects' attention and emotions, and motivate them to act.
Unfortunately, real estate marketing tools in use today — printed brochures, paper folders and sell sheets — would fit right in with Don Draper's late 1960s era.
Podcast: VHT Studios CEO Brian Balduf Joins Real Estate Coaching Radio to Discuss the Value of Premium Photography
VHT Studios co-founder and CEO, Brian Balduf, recently joined Real Estate Coaching Radio's Tim and Julie Harris to discuss the true value of premium photography in real estate. Brian explains how today's real estate buyer life-cycle has changed and how agents can use high end photography and strong visuals to list and sell more homes.
Real Estate Coaching Radio, known as the nation's largest real estate talk-show, provides advice, news, and interviews with industry leaders to help coach agents and brokers. Tim and Julie Harris have been leaders in the real estate industry for over two decades, first as agents and now as experienced real estate coaches.
Listen to the full podcast here.
Podcast: The Notorious ROB Discusses Photos, Copyrights, Liability with VHT Studios CEO, Brian Balduf and VP Marketing, Sarah Anderson
As a follow-up to the recently published blog post Now's the Time to Shield Your Real Estate Brokerage from Intellectual Property Liability, VHT CEO, Brian Balduf and Vice President Marketing, Sarah Anderson sat down with The Notorious ROB to discuss the various challenges that real estate brokerages could be facing regarding photography, copyrights and licensing if they unknowingly sign agreements without reading the fine print.
Some third party companies are asking brokerages to sign agreements that get their listings online for free. Before signing anything, Brian, Rob and Sarah are urging real estate brokerages to pay close attention to certain clauses so that they protect their interests and protect themselves from other parties' copyright violations. Listen to the podcast below to learn more and get in on the conversation.
Listen to the Full Podcast Here.
Pangea Properties is affirming what clients of VHT Studios have been saying all along: professional real estate photography is not just for marketing mansions and high-end homes. Pangea Properties, a private real estate investment trust (REIT) and management company, has selected VHT Studios to deliver stunning real estate photographs that will provide an edge in marketing Pangea Properties' portfolio of more than 10,000 newly renovated apartments throughout Chicago, Indianapolis and Baltimore.
Pangea Properties provides convenience to prospective renters by allowing them to view apartments and townhomes online before touring them in person. The company is utilizing VHT Studios' unrivaled network of professional real estate photographers to help market this rental building on Chicago's South Side, as well as others in Indianapolis and Baltimore. See more photos at http://bit.ly/VHT-Pangea-6751S.
Pangea Properties' choice underscores the value of VHT Studios' professional photography and experience in managing multiple, large-scale photography assignments nationwide. VHT Studios has a deep bench – the largest national network of award-winning photographers – to provide high-quality real estate photography services at a moment's notice.
In addition, VHT's studio of image specialists ensures Pangea Properties' distinct properties stand out to potential renters.
Since 2008, Pangea Properties has invested $250 million in renovations to more than 10,000 distressed units, with a focus on making significant investments in the buildings and surrounding neighborhoods.
Pangea Properties CMO Justin Cohen says Pangea chose VHT Studios because of its expertise in managing assignments of this size.
"VHT's infrastructure ensures a simple, smooth process for Pangea Properties to get cost-effective and eye-catching photographs captured, processed and online," said Cohen.
VHT Studios eliminates the time and expenses related to finding, training and managing photographers; scheduling shoots; editing images; and uploading thousands of photos to the Pangea Properties website.
"When it comes to understanding the needs of renters, Pangea Properties gets it," said VHT Studios CEO Brian Balduf. "Their team understands that promoting rental units through high-quality, professional photography is not simply a customer convenience; the beautiful photographs attract potential renters to the properties and fill the apartments and townhomes more quickly."
Pangea Properties has a single point of contact so VHT Studios' professional photographs are processed quickly, efficiently and adhere to high standards of quality developed over 15 years in business.
Pangea Properties is among a growing number of organizations, including Google, using professional photographs to market anything a consumer would want to see before renting, booking or buying. That includes promoting restaurants, hotels, funeral homes,retail stores, college campuses, senior living complexes, yachts, salons, health clubs, medical offices and hospitals. To learn more about how VHT's stunning photography attracts buyers, email Elizabeth Cleary at email@example.com, or call 800-790-TOUR (8687).
Because top New York real estate professionals demand world-class photography to become even more successful, VHT Studios introduces internationally renowned architectural photographer Romy Rodiek as the lead photographer for the New York City market.
Rodiek creates museum-quality photography, which fulfills VHT Studios' pledge to provide stunning photographs that wow prospective sellers and get buyers in the door.
"Romy brings an amazing array of life and professional experiences into her innovative photography," said Brian Balduf, CEO of VHT Studios. "She has traveled the world extensively and has always been interested in architecture and design. Her photography has been recognized internationally as meeting prestigious standards of design and excellence.
"Her insightful skill set and meticulous approach enables her to create images from an artist's point of view, resulting in great real estate and architectural photography."
Rodiek's innovative photography was showcased in 2014 shows at photo::vienna at the Museum für Angewandte Kunst in Vienna and Elective Affinities at the International Center of Photography in New York.
Best known for her clean, linear approach to her photography subjects, Rodiek takes a very structured approach to photography, striving to make her images clear, bold and exacting. She describes her work as "a little bit German.
"My work with some of the top real estate agents in New York has taught me that communication is the key," she said. "My goal is to deliver the unique perspectives, angles and elevations to create precisely the images my clients need."
Rodiek was born in Bremen, Germany, and studied photographic processes and portraiture at London's Central St. Martin's College and the London School of Photography, as well as the Photography Institute.
After finishing her studies in London, Rodiek won the Director's Scholarship at The International Center for Photography in New York. She spent years as a freelance photographer, starting out in the analog world.
Rodiek spent four and a-half months in South America and two weeks on a Russian icebreaker in Antarctica. Her photos from this trip and throughout Europe earned her two honorable mentions from the prestigious International Photography Awards in 2011 and 2012.
Her work has been exhibited at the SCOPE shows in Miami as well as Exposure New York, and she placed in the semifinals of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards at the Natural History Museum in London.
"Working with VHT Studios is ideal for me because it allows me to combine my love of structural photography with my keen interest in marketing and business management," Rodiek said. She comes from an international marketing background, graduating from Institut Rosenberg in St. Gallen, Switzerland and the European Business School in London. She also worked for Western Union FSI in Vienna, Société Générale Bank in Vienna and Alfred Dunhill Ltd. in London.
VHT Studios, home of the nation's most trusted network of top professional real estate photographers and most widely used image/video management systems, is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Anderson to the newly created position of Vice President, Marketing, effective immediately.
Anderson comes to VHT Studios following an award-winning career with Chamberlain Group, Inc. (CGI), a Duchossois Group company. Her background includes a variety of executive leadership positions, most recently including Vice President of Channel Marketing and Vice President of Marketing Communications and Customer Advocacy. In her tenure at CGI, Anderson built two home improvement brands to number one in the world. She brings more than 30 years of experience in building business through integrated marketing focused on the expansion of multiple brands and channels, igniting customer engagement and focusing on superior performance and highly memorable brand experiences. Anderson's broad expertise in brand building to grow market share and revenue will drive VHT Studios as it expands and enhances its suite of services to better serve brokers and agents, establishes new partnerships and increases brand awareness in other vertical markets.
"I am thrilled to have someone of Sarah's caliber and deep professional experience joining the VHT Studios team," said Brian Balduf, CEO, VHT Studios. "It's very important to VHT's future that we add a marketing executive to our leadership team who can generate results and strengthen our efforts to support top real estate professionals and market-leading firms to become even more successful. Sarah joins VHT Studios at an opportune time for the company, as we track a record growth trajectory," Balduf added.
VHT Studios has experienced double digit year-over-year growth in sales revenues, photography and related marketing transactions since 2013. More than 200,000 Realtors®nationwide have benefited from VHT Studios' photography and VHT ImageWorks video, which help Realtors® win listings, showcase their properties in the best light and get buyers in the door.
"I am honored and excited to help lead VHT's continued growth through increased innovation and excellence in brand, product and service offerings," Anderson said. "VHT Studios has built its reputation upon exceptional photography and marketing services that deliver visible results."
Anderson lives with her family in Glen Ellyn, Illinois and serves on the DuPage County Habitat for Humanity ReStore Advisory Board. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Journalism with Public Relations Emphasis from Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, Indiana.
|VHT Studios' Analysis shows high-quality photographs dramatically reduce Days on Market
|CHICAGO, Ill. – September 2, 2014 – Realtors® who use professional real estate photographs to sell listed homes 32 percent faster than all other listings, according to a new study of Chicago-area real estate sales by VHT Studios, the nation's largest real estate photography network for homes and businesses.VHT Studios' analysis aligns with industry research indicating when a home is photographed and presented in its best possible light, the listing attracts more buyers by getting more clicks and a higher click-through rate. As well, a property with professional photography has a higher perceived value, minimizing prolonged negotiation and accelerating the sales process.
VHT Studios' analysis also shows the most experienced and productive Realtors® are typically the biggest users of real estate photography, said Brian Balduf, CEO of VHT Studios.
According to VHT Studios' first-of-its-kind analysis, Chicago-area homes that were professionally photographed sold 32% faster, spending an average of 89 Days on Market (DOM) – compared to 123 DOM for other homes. According to the analysis, Realtors® who utilized professional real estate photography cut average DOM by nearly five full weeks. VHT Studios analyzed homes in every price range, indicating home listings in all price-points benefit from professional photographs.
"Our findings are not surprising, given consumers' behavior when searching for homes in today's market," Balduf said. "Time-crunched shoppers are online and are attracted to striking photographs, which simplifies their decision to visit a property in person and speeds up the buying cycle."
VHT's findings are no surprise to top real estate professionals such as Chicago's Leigh Marcus, @Properties' Number One Individual Agent of 2013. Marcus ensures that all his listings are accompanied by VHT's flawless, high-resolution photographs.
"High-quality photographs capture buyers' attention and that's one reason why my clients' homes sell faster than the competition," said Marcus. "VHT helps sellers reduce the hassles of showing their homes. Plus the sooner you sell, you're more likely to attain your asking price or – better yet – have buyers bidding over your home."
New York City's Tracie Hamersley of Douglas Elliman Real Estate relies on VHT photographs for all her listings. She said her clients also enjoy a shorter sales cycle – fewer than 30 days – due in part, to the impact of VHT's real estate photography.
"Amazing professional photographs bring in crowds of buyers and ultimately contribute to a faster sale at the best price – the first offers we are getting are often the best ones," added Hamersley.
"This analysis shows once again that professional real estate photographs are not just for mansions and estates," said Balduf. "They are as important, if not more important for the average home for sale. Our study shows that Realtors® who are not taking advantage of professional photographs in their listings are missing opportunities for themselves and their clients."
Eva Oliver and David Sporn of Coldwell Banker, Miami Beach said VHT Studios' professional real estate photography helps brokers to generate the activity needed to sell their listings.
"Photos are the first impression prospects and realtors see online and on the MLS. If a property fails to give a good first impression online, then it's possible your listing may not be shown," said Oliver.
Sporn added, "Staying true to a property's look and offering great quality photographs will generate more activity than other properties. Professional photographs and a virtual tour is a no-brainer when it comes to marketing our clients' homes."
Balduf said VHT Studios' 2014 success is an indicator of real estate professionals' increasing use of high quality professional photography to market their listings. Compared to 2013, VHT Studios has experienced 40% year-over-year growth in sales revenues and photography orders. Other 2014 milestones include:
VHT Studios' images produced in June 2014 — 1.1 million
For examples of VHT Studios' professional real estate photography, please visit this slide show –www.vht.com/premium
How VHT Studios Conducted Our Study
About VHT Studios
VHT Studioshelps top real estate professionals become even more successful. Properties that VHT photographs get seen more, sell faster and at a greater price. The VHT Studios team completely takes care of Realtors'® most compelling selling tool – high-quality photography – so they have more time to take care of their customers.
With an unrivaled nationwide network of highly skilled photographers and Image Specialists, VHT Studios is an affordable, valuable investment for real estate brokers who expect their listings to beautomagically seen whenever and wherever homebuyers search. Based in Rosemont, Illinois, VHT's 150+ photographers have helped more than 75,000 real estate professionals sell more than $200 billion in properties since the company's founding in 1999. For more information, visitwww.vht.com.
Lots of people in and around Washington, Ill., are referring to the areas devastated by Sunday's tornado as looking like a war zone.
Six people were killed and dozens other injured when tornados swept through Illinois on Sunday, November 17. Officials report more than 1,000 homes sustained damage and tens of thousands more are still without power. More than 100 people stayed in 25 Red Cross shelters Monday night in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Ohio.
After a disaster, everyone wants to help. With nowhere left to store the cases of water and rolls of paper towels and bags of children's clothing that keep coming in, churches and other shelters in the Washington area are turning away donations.
"We're Midwesterners," says Phil Bolam, accepting a couple of slices of pizza offered by a teacher from the neighboring middle school who walks by, pushing a waiter's cart. "We band together in tragedy, and people are wonderful."
His home of 20 years on Westminster Drive is gone, nothing but broken wood left in its place. He and his wife, Ella, were trying to salvage what they could before the rain started up on Wednesday afternoon. He's staying in a hotel and has no storage.
"We're going to rebuild, right here," Phil Bolam says. "We hope some of our neighbors do, too."
Read more: Heartwarming Reunion: Illinois Tornado Survivor Finds His Missing Dog Buried Alive Under Rubble (UPDATED)
Here's how you can help:
Found items from the Washington Illinois and Diamond Illinois Tornadoes
Found something in your yard that belongs to someone in Washington or Diamond, Illinois? Post it to this Facebook page so that the owner can find it.
There's also a Facebook page for missing pets.
American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross is responding across five states to help people affected by Sunday's devastating tornado outbreak and severe weather in the Midwest, providing food, shelter and comfort to families and individuals in need.
If you'd like to make a donation, please do so through the American Red Cross website.
Salvation Army:
Before the storm was even at full strength, the Salvation Army had mobilized teams to areas that looked like they would need emergency food and shelter. These teams are dispersed across the region to offer nourishment, shelter and guidance to the needy. The Salvation Army has established a way to give immediately; you can contribute by texting STORM to 80888 to make a $10 donation.
You can also send a check to The Salvation Army, 401 NE Adams, Peoria, Illinois 61603. Specify that you're donation is for "November Tornado Relief."
Operation Blessing:
The humanitarian organization vows to help even if it doesn't deploy a full disaster response team. Jody Herrington-Gettys, director of domestic disaster relief for Operation Blessing, has pledged support to the region, saying it will partner with local churches and other groups and assist in aid efforts through grants and donations.
Team Rubicon:
Team Rubicon is a group of veterans who come together after disasters to provide immediate relief and aid to rescue and recovery workers. It has already sent people to help clear debris in Washington, where many of the injuries occurred.
Washington & Central Illinois Tornado Relief & Recovery:
This Facebook page has frequent updates on what you can give and how you can get it to the victims of the tornadoes in central Illinois.
Here is a list of locations that are excepting donations of supplies.
A community Facebook page for reporting lost and found pets from the Washington, IL, and surrounding area.
Clearinghouse of Info, Relief & Recovery Resources for the 11/13 Tornadoes in IL.
A network of volunteers & dog advocates helping reunite "lost" dogs with their families & "found" dogs with their owners.
Photo credits: Zbigniew Bzdak/MCT/Landov/Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images


text:
Channel 4 might just have won Christmas with this incredible new Bake Off trailer
Noel Fielding, Sandi Toksvig, Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith sing Stay Another Day ahead of The Great Christmas Bake Off 2017
The Great British Bake Off is returning for TWO Christmas specials, and if that's not enough of a festive treat for you, how about Paul Hollywood, Prue Leith, Noel Fielding and Sandi Toksvig singing Stay Another Day?
Yes, that's right, the Bake Off quartet have donned white parkas and posed in the snow for a quite frankly ridiculous Channel 4 East 17 parody trailer.
We can't help thinking that former Mighty Boosher Noel had a hand in the choreography here – and that's really no bad thing.
- Our favourite former bakers are BACK for The Great British Bake Off 2017 Christmas special
- When is The Great Christmas Bake Off on TV?
And here's the East 17 original, just for retro joy…
A host of former bakers will be returning for the two Christmas special episodes, including Selasi Gbormittah, Val Stones and Benjamina Ebuehi.


text: <?xml version="1.0"?> <api> <query-continue> <search sroffset="10" /> </query-continue> <query> <searchinfo totalhits="25" /> <search> <p ns="0" title="Fglrx" snippet="...isn't a benchmark tool, it's so simple that its FPS values is without any meaning... you can only compare glxgears using the same drivers/machine, if you cha " size="12821" wordcount="1798" timestamp="2013-04-15T01:17:50Z" /> <p ns="0" title="Installing Debian Sid (September 2004) on a ThinkPad R50" snippet=" ttyS0 at I/O 0x3e8 (irq = 3) is a 16550A ##i get this meaning that infrared is detected as serial. " size="7056" wordcount="1170" timestamp="2009-02-16T14:58:01Z" /> <p ns="0" title="BIOS Upgrade" snippet="# It only works with /dev/fd0, meaning it won't work with a USB floppy " size="29368" wordcount="4830" timestamp="2017-11-01T17:38:09Z" /> <p ns="0" title="Problem with DVI throughput" snippet="...s for the second part (for 2005FPW you'd enter 1680 and get 690 as result, meaning "0690" is the second part"). Now put them together and you have the complet " size="8851" wordcount="1406" timestamp="2008-11-23T16:39:31Z" /> <p ns="0" title="Ordering Recovery CDs" snippet="Recovery CDs are localized, meaning that there are specific versions for each language. The language you will g " size="13650" wordcount="2122" timestamp="2011-01-26T11:31:18Z" /> <p ns="0" title="Ipw2200" snippet="For the list of codes and their meaning, see the "<tt>ipw_geos</tt>" table in the [http://lxr.free-electrons.com/so " size="12593" wordcount="1866" timestamp="2010-11-18T10:29:50Z" /> <p ns="0" title="Active Protection System" snippet="...2 through all possible x or y angles, the values range from about 335-645, meaning a resolution of about 155 units per Earth gravity. This seems to suggest t " size="8241" wordcount="1261" timestamp="2010-11-29T16:30:58Z" /> <p ns="0" title="750 Family Device Support in Linux" snippet="...ome time. However, the chipset and video memory is not detected correctly, meaning hand-tuning of X configuration files is necessary. " size="6884" wordcount="1176" timestamp="2009-04-08T16:21:12Z" /> <p ns="0" title="ThinkPad Dock II" snippet="...ases the heat inside the dock, and may likely have a fan on board as well, meaning it will increase the noise level. While adding one of the below video cards " size="13306" wordcount="2042" timestamp="2014-04-06T15:18:37Z" /> <p ns="0" title="ATI Mobility Radeon 9000" snippet="The meaning of 0xff is unknown, but 0xffffffff certainly does not work. " size="2721" wordcount="400" timestamp="2011-03-01T12:32:11Z" /> </search> </query> </api>


text:
Need to Make a Payment?
Paying your bill online is fast, easy, and secure! Make a payment 24/7 from anywhere.
When you click the image below, you will be directed to LawPay's secure payment site. LawPay utilizes the latest security protocols to ensure that your credit card transactions are safe and free from any intrusions.
We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. There's no additional cost to you by paying by credit card.


text:
Goa Mansions - Accumulation of Architectural Splendor
Do you know the Portuguese ruled over Goa for 450 years? Isn't it difficult to nullify the influence of Portuguese? Houses are built by people, history preserves them and tourists behold them in admiration. Portuguese left Goa in 1961, but still where ever you look, you'll see their lasting impact on everything. The country mansions were built between the 18th and 20th century, where Indians and Europeans met. The landscape of Goa is dotted with heritage houses, villas, mansions that are a reminder of the Portuguese era. Thrill yourself by looking at some unique examples of clever amalgam of the Indian and Portuguese styles. At some places you can even enjoy the glimpses of European and Italian styles. So, now get ready to amaze yourself by watching some of the exclusive architectural heritages of Goa. Walk into any of the grand mansions and you will be bewildered to see how much care is taken to beautify these residences.
Some of the Grandiose Structures
Salvador Da Costa Mansion
Plan a trip to Loutolim and astonish yourself by seeing some dream houses with fairy tales gardens scattered everywhere. A 19th century creation will take your heart away by its magnificent grandeur. A creation of Padre Pedrinho and Padre Laurence is known for its Gothic style windows, wide verandas and cluster columns.
Figueredo Mansion
The most fascinating feature of this house is the balcony or porch, with its pyramidal angled roof, supported on elephantine columns, which are often crimped with intricately molded capitals. Sit on the entrance steps leading to the balcony. This passage was the place where, the family spent long hours in conversation. It is amazing to see the adorned ceilings, rich wall paintings and the China mosaic that beautified its floors.
Mascarenhas Mansion
This mansion located on Goa's most happening beach Anjuna has a rich and classic 'balcoes' (balconies). An L shaped seat along the porch is carved out of expensive and delicate wood. There are also some fine stained glass floral engravings which are no longer made or available these days.
Solar Dos Colacos Mansion
Solar dos Colacoa Mansion is situated at Ribandar on the left bank of the River Mandovi, half-way between Old Goa and Panjim. It is built in baroque style with an imposing frontage and an excellent view of islands and the historical churches of Old Goa.
Vivian Coutinho Mansion
Vivian Coutinho Mansion in Fatorda, at the entrance of Margao, depicts the hard work and sincerity that went into the planning of the entrance of a house. The Coutinhos had a well-maintained picturesque garden.
Colaco Mansion
This is perhaps the only mansion facing the water front with beautiful walls colored in Ox-blood color, one of the three traditional colors of Goan exteriors, the other being white and indigo. The corridor of this massive structure runs along the front facade and faces the Mandovi River.
Dr. Pinto De Rosario Mansion
Pinto de Rosario Mansion is amidst Panjim and Mapusa in Porvorim. The rare pieces like cut-glass, silver, blue china, ivory are of superb quality The Italian floor tiling is the highlight of the parlour. Above the intricately carved sofa is a Dutch tapestry, an imitation of Rembrandt's Night Watch. The love- chair is believed to be 200 years old.
Some Other Mansions
Goa is dotted with many other Architectural pieces such as magnificent Albuquerque mansion depicts an antique architectural art with classical balconies. Then you can view Miranda Mansion- built in 1710 this mansion has a separate chapel for worship. Then there is another mansion in Margao Sat Burnzam an imitation of typical Portuguese style has a double storied facade. Another marvel is Dr Alvaro Loyola Furtado Mansion in Chinchinim exhibiting richness unmatched at the time it was built in 1883. If you have a deep interest for architecture then just set on foot and you will discover various examples yourself.
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Basilica of Bom Jesus is located in Goa, India. The basilica holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. The church is located in Old Goa, which was the capital of Goa in the early days of Portuguese rule, about 10 km from the new city of Panjim. 'Bom Jesus' is the name used for the infant Jesus. The Jesuit church is India's first Minor Basilica, and is considered as one of the best examples of baroque architecture in India.
This world heritage monument built in 1695 and has emerged as a landmark in the history of Christianity. It contains the body of St. Francis Xavier; a very close friend of St. Ignatius Loyola with whom he founded the Society of Jesus Francis Xavier died on the Sancian island while waiting for a ship to take him to Continental China (December 2, 1552).
The body of Francis Xavier was first taken to Malacca and two years later shipped back to Goa. It is said that the saint's body was as fresh as the day it was buried. The remains of the saint still attract a huge number of devotees from all over the world, especially during the public viewing of his body every ten years. The saint is said to have miraculous powers of healing, and pilgrims come from all over the country.
This is one of the oldest churches in Goa and is carpeted with marble flooring and inlaid with precious stones. Apart from the elaborate gilded altars, the interior of the church is simple. The church also holds paintings with scenes taken from the life of St. Francis Xavier. The mausoleum on the top of which is placed the silver casket with the body of St. Francis Xavier (1696) was the gift of the last of the Medicis, Cosimo III, and the Grand Duke of Tuscany. The Basilica of Bom Jesus church at Goa, India, is more than 400 years old. The body of St. Francis Xavier, kept in a well decorated casket, is open to the public every day. Solemn exhibitions of the 'body' are held every ten years.
The mausoleum was designed by the 17th century Florentine sculptor Giovanni Battista Foggini. It took ten years to complete. The casket containing his body is made of silver. The holy relics of the saint are displayed every ten years during the anniversary of the Saint's death. His liturgical feast is the third of December. On the upper level, overlooking the tomb is the Bom Jesus Basilica Art Gallery, containing the works of the Goan surrealist painter, Dom Martin. Author and fellow Jesuit Anthony De Mello was also from Goa and does mention the basilica in his writings.
On December 3, the day of the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, the saint's finger is displayed to the public. The exposition of the body of St. Francis Xavier is held once every ten years and the last being in 1994 and the next being 2004.
Manguesh Temple
Manguesh Temple is situated along the National Highway-4A about 23-km from Panajim. Positioned 22 kms from Panajim, this temple is set on a picturesque location, on a hillock surrounded by lush green hills.
Although the Sri Manguesh temple was hidden as a closed book in Cortalim, but then, it was moved to its present site between Mardol and Priol during the 16th century. The structure that tourists admire dates back to 1700's.
Lord Shiva is the main deity worshipped in this temple.
Attractions of Manguesh Temple
The massive welcome gate and an elegant lamp tower "Noubatkhana" dominating the temple tank makes the tourist feel bewildered at its first sight and the Agrashalas on three sides also give an enchanting look. It has an airy atmosphere of a peculiar style. The grand white tower at the entrance is a landmark of the countryside. Inside, the floor is surfaced with marble and decorative tiles which further highlight the white walls. The beautiful raised silver thresholds, with fluorite patterns, direct to the sanctum which houses a Shiva Lingam. A golden "Shesha" next to the Linga and an image of Shiva compromises the main altar.
There is an interesting story or legend related to Lord Manguesh, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The name Manguesh is not used for Lord Shiva anywhere else in India. You'll come to know why it is used in Goa only according to legends once Lord Shiva lost everything he had in a game of dice with his wife Parvati. As decided, he went to go into self-imposed exile and visited Goa. But, Parvati could not live without her husband so she came to find out Lord Shiva in jungles. Lord planned to play a prank with her. He turned himself into a tiger to scare her. Parvati cried out for help and uttered the words 'Trahi Mam Girisha' (O Lord of Mountains Save Me!). Lord Shiva immediately turned himself back into his normal form and the two were united. But the cry for help and the words 'mam girisha' got linked with Lord Shiva. In the course of time the words abbreviated to Manguirisha or Manguesh by which name he is known today also. A linga which was left to mark the place where the legend happened was noticed by a local shepherd and finally a temple was built to house Lord Manguesh.
The temple architecture is a blend of Hindu, Christian and Muslim charms and is illuminated in glorious lights during the annual Jatra which is held in January. The deity is taken out in a palanquin and paraded in huge chariots during the festival which is attended by thousands of devotees. Festivals and many other religious activities are conducted at regular intervals.
The Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church
The Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church is situated in the centre of the city of Panajim is a well known landmark and is also very close to Miramar beach. The church bell is said to be the 2nd largest in the world, was actually the bell of the Church of Our Lady Of Grace. The Golden Bell was known as the "Bell of the Inquisition "was moved to Our Lady Of The Immaculate Conception Church in 1841. This place is a central place of worship and prayer for religious souls. It is one of the most popular tourist spots and visitors flock to see the church in large numbers. The Basilica is dedicated to Infant Jesus and is now listed in the World Heritage Monument list. The genuine splendor of this church can be seen at night. As soon as evening sets in, this huge monument is transformed into a gleaming and radiant display as it is lit up with many small electric bulbs. In the historical days, this church was the landmark for the sailors to offer thanks for a safe anchoring.
The church was built in 1540 and underwent rebuilding and renovation in 1619. Modeled as per the structure of church of Reis Magos this church boasts of tall twin towers constructed in a typical Portuguese baroque style. Dedicated to 'Nossa Senhora da Imaculada Conceicao' the main altar of the church has been artfully carved in Renaissance style.
It is believed that The Our Lady of The Immaculate Conception Church was initially built in 1541 and later it was re-built in 1619. The interior architecture of the church is pretty impressive. The backdrop of the altar is elaborately designed. This impressive structure boasts of pristine white marble flooring and has beautifully gilded altars decorated with frescoes and inlay work. There are two altars flanking the main altars. One is dedicated to Jesus crucified and the other is dedicated to Our Lady of Rosary. However, both the altars are marvelously gilded and embellished with carvings, yet defined and uncomplicated, a well instance of that era. At the side of each altar, is a marble sculpture, one of St Paul and one of St Peter. Towards the south of the right of the main altar, is a Chapel of St. Francis Xavier, whose glass-encased statue occupies the focal point of that area. Some of the more famous features of the church are its Gothic style stairs which are quite majestic.
Through the year, visitors throng the white baroque church, attracted by the Blessed Mother or the statues of St. Peter and Paul. Enjoy a newer harmony in life with the euphonic bells calling the faithful to mass. On 8th December every year, devotees flock to the church in large numbers to attend the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. The feast is a celebration of the conception of Lord Jesus by Mother Mary.
Shri Shantadurga Temple
Shri Shantadurga Temple is positioned 18 kms from Margao, at Fatorpa (Quepem). Situated at the foothill of Kavalem, the Shantadurga temple owns a beautiful massive tank called as Dipa Stambha and Agrashalas.
The original place of Shree Shantadurga Devi
The original place of Shree Shantadurga devi was at Keloshi. From there devi was repositioned to Kavlem during the dominance of Portuguese government. The original site of Sri Shantadurga temple is Kardelivana of Quelossim in Mormugao Taluka, where the great poet Krishnadas Shama composed epic "Sri Krishna Charita" credibly in the 14th century on the lines of Dnyaneshwari.
The temple was built in 1728 AD during the rule of Shahu Maharaj of Satara at the request of Naro Ram Mantri, one of his very good ministers.
Current Structure
This current structure of Shree Shantadurga devi was built during the period from 1713 A.D to 1738 A.D. Many redevelopments have been done over the years to the main templeas well as the temples of other deities besides the agarshala (guest house) which is built encircling the temple.
Other Names
At several places it is known by various names, "Thamai", "Sateri", "Bhumka", "Adimaya" and others.
Shree Shantadurga temple has an imposing idol of Goddess Shree Durga who speculated between Shree Vishnu and Shree Shiva and ceased the fearful war going on between the two Lords. She is encircled by Vishnu and Shiva on both the sides.
Three temples of Shri Shantadurga
There are three temples of Shri Shantadurga - one at Kavlem, Pemem and Fatorpa (Quepem).
Shri Shantadurga (Kavlem):
An opulently built temple is located 33 kms from Panaji. The Shri Shantadurga temple has a rich and beautiful 'Garbhakuda' (the holy of holies) where, the deity is kept. The deity was shifted from Kelsi. This temple is dedicated to Shantadurga. Shantadurga is the Goddess who mediates between Vishnu and Shiva. The 'Agrashalas' provide accommodation facilities to the devotees like lodgings etc.
Shri Shantadurga (Pemem):
This Shri Shantadurga Temple is positioned 14 kms from Mapusa at Dhargal, Pemem. The temple is set in the middle of extremely beautiful scenic environment. The Goddess of this Shri Shantaduega temple was moved out at Sanquelim, when all the temples in Barde were destroyed by the Portuguese. So, in 1550 A.D this Goddess was taken to Dhargal in Pemem Taluka which also formed a component of Sewantwadi territory. The 'Zatra' of this Goddess is held in the month of December.
Shri Shantadurga (Kunkolienkarin):
This Shri Shantadurga temple is situated 18 kms from Margao, at Fatorpa (Quepem). Earlier it was from Cuncolim village in Salcete Taluka, the Goddess was removed to Fatorpa in 16th Century during religious persecution by the Portuguese. The annual 'Zatra' falls in the month of Pausha Shuddha Navami and is participated by thousands of devotees and tourists from all over the world.
The annual zatra, which falls in the month of Pausha Shuddha Navami draws thousands of devotees from all over the Goa.


text:
The adoption of digital solutions for data capturing in the healthcare sector will revolutionise the delivery of healthcare services and solutions; from testing, early detection and prevention to remote patient monitoring to help patients navigate the healthcare system with digital services, disease impact measurement and budget allocations.
This is according to Head of Research: Board of Healthcare Funders of Southern Africa (BHF), Charlton Murove, who was speaking ahead of the 19th Annual BHF Conference taking place in Sun City from 17 to 20 June 2018.
Data will inform disease profiling to get a better understanding of its prevalence and establish current and future costs of diseases in healthcare. In a system where you have accurate and comprehensive data, the industry can better prioritise healthcare needs. Data will identify the requirements for systems to be put in place to ensure that we address current and future healthcare challenges.
While the application of data in the medical profession is lauded, several interventions are required to ensure that we build solid foundations that will adequately support our quest to achieve the underlying vision of universal health coverage (UHC) that provides quality, equitable and affordable healthcare for all.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) require that healthcare be radically improved in the most underserved areas. A combination of big data and the Internet of things (IoT) will undoubtedly be major forces for change in the years to come, as global connectivity increases and technology flourishes.
Current systems are not geared towards providing health intelligence – there is still a big gap between the doctor's diagnosis and the pharmacy, and fragmentation in record keeping is the region's biggest challenge. If systems were built with health intelligence in mind, the industry would be better positioned to identify notifiable conditions quicker, for example.
A good example of the gaps in data collection is the 2017 outbreak of listeriosis: until recently, listeriosis was not a notifiable condition, which means it was not reported to the Department of Health the first time it was diagnosed. This is one of the challenges that can be addressed by the centralisation of data. If we can identify the right tools for data collection and centralisation, it will go a long way towards bridging the gaps in electronic health records (EHRs) that should be accessible to all the relevant service providers as and when needed and within the required privacy ambits.
In the age of technology, we are still manually processing claims. This cannot be so.
What needs to be done for the region's healthcare
The industry is currently fragmented and everyone works in silos, which makes it difficult to understand patient records and reconcile patient history. Data capturing and centralisation must be taken more seriously in order to generate usable data that can aid interventions for tackling fraudulent claims, for example, and enabling early detection and containment of communicable diseases.
We must be able to pinpoint where and why funds are spent in the different healthcare areas so that we have an understanding of the population's health needs and required interventions. Also, if such data is captured across the southern African region, we can determine what diseases patients have had when they come into the country and we go outside the country, and can adequately pick up communicable cases across countries.
Improvements in healthcare should not be perceived as being limited to the first world. Decisions must be taken by African governments to do things better and ensure that the industry is not fragmented.
Data will enable efficiencies in healthcare
Public healthcare systems across the region are buckling under pressure as they are continuing to service more people than originally envisaged. The resulting inefficiency is coupled with a myriad of other challenges such as skills shortages, fragmented systems and unconsolidated data that could have provided a clear picture of the health needs of the region's population.
The Future Health Index, commissioned by Dutch tech company Philips, paints a bleak picture of our public healthcare system. According to the report, South Africa was ranked last among 19 nations in a global survey that measured healthcare system efficiency – the ability to deliver maximum results at the lowest possible cost. Among some of the biggest bottlenecks in the progression of healthcare in the country is data fragmentation and a lack of data to inform spend vs. health citizen needs.
The authors of the report attributed South Africa's poor performance to average healthcare spend as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) that delivered below average health outcomes. South Africa spends 8.8% of its GDP on healthcare, just over R4 trillion a year, which places it in the mid-field amongst the 19 countries. The US spent 19.1% of its GDP on health and France 11.5%. The lowest spender was the UAE with 3.8%. There is a compelling case for improved budgetary allocation for health, and only usable data can adequately support this.
The adoption of smart applications and innovative technology will go a long way in mending the state of the public healthcare system and facilitating quality, equitable and affordable healthcare services to all.
Looking ahead
According to the Ericsson 2016 Mobility Report, the digital transformation of the healthcare industry is enabling healthcare professionals to reimagine their work. The report states that in order for the transformation of patient applications to happen, patient data will need to be stored centrally, effectively turning hospitals into data centres and doctors into data scientists. Patients should be able to access their records through a central repository to help them manage the quality and efficiency of their care.
The report states that "New digital tools will allow hospitals to automate repetitive administrative tasks and allow their healthcare professionals to get the most from their professional training and focus on patient care. With such intense competition for healthcare talent at a global level, allowing doctors and specialists to focus on their highest-value activities – diagnosis, treatment, care – puts hospitals in a great position to attract and retain scarce skills."
The study also forecasts that predictive analytics will be another growth area once the storage and retrieval of all this data is mastered. The benefits can be derived in mundane areas such as inventory and waste management, as well as patient care.
Without a doubt, healthcare is one sector in which the IoT ecosystem and big data analytics will play an increasingly vital role, and a number of enhancements must be made to successfully expand healthcare to the greater portion of the population.
For more information contact email@example.com, like us on Facebook or tweet us @eHealthNewsZA.


text:
Beginning in 2020, employers of all sizes may implement a new HRA design – an individual coverage HRA (ICHRA) – to reimburse their eligible employees for insurance policies purchased in the individual market or Medicare premiums. Final rules permit employers to offer an ICHRA as an alternative to traditional group health plan coverage, subject to certain conditions. This Compliance Overview summarizes the requirements for ICHRAs.
Our friends at Sound Benefit Administration also provided a good overview of the new ICHRA.
Comments are closed.
How to use this Library
From compliance questions to "what is this?" definitions, this library can help answer your benefits-related questions. Search by category.


text:
Comic Book Club: Cory Michael Smith and John Patrick Green
Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Android | Email | Stitcher | TuneIn | Spotify | RSS | More
Cory Michael Smith (Edward Nygma, "Gotham") and John Patrick Green ("Teen Boat," "Hippopotamister") hit the stage to talk about what it's like to have three names! Oh, and their recent work.
Check out the website at comicbookclublive.com to find out how to watch the show live! And follow the show on Twitter: @comicbooklive, @azalben, @jtsizzle, and @realpetelepage


text:
Heading into the last week of July the team is excitedly awaiting the arrival of August. There are a number of big updates planned for August and September starting with the V1 release of the Development Roadmap.
Within the next few weeks we'll be providing the official release date for the Development Roadmap, in the meantime, we'd like to share a few of the deliverables from this plan:
August (Early/Mid) – Insider Program kickoff
- First batch of content for the Insider Program members is being prepared for delivery:
- Advanced preview of the Development Roadmap
- "In-Sim" content – clips captured from build.
- Preview Build Program – Detailed information on first build deliverable, Insider participation sign-up
August (Mid/Late) – Development Roadmap Release (v.2019.08/drr1)
- Development beats through EOY 2019
- Build Program Recruitment and Release timeline
- SDK Update
- 3rd Party Content Update
- UGC Content Update
August (Late) – Build Program Kickoff
- Preview Build Program – Detailed information on first preview build deliverable
- Preview Build Program – Public Participation sign-up
- Preview Build Program – Preview of next build details
There are two important plans we will be sharing with you in September:
- The pipeline for how we will provide an in-depth look at the product we are building.
- The process for how we will integrate the community into this process to facilitate a collaborative partnership to bring this product to launch.
Threads on the forums we pay close attention to, are truly valued by the team. So though we may not be directly interacting with you at the moment, we hear you. August is about setting expectations, providing a clear Development Roadmap outlining how we get from today to launch. September is about how we accomplish that task, together.