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News for 2014
Dear Dresden-Guests,
The New year has begun, Dresden saw a bit of snow in January and we are eager to get ready for the next groups, who are scheduled to arrive in town when it is getting warmer again.
Continuing education is always important for us during off-season. A great one was: dealing with guests with special needs. Here we learned more about guests with disabilities, so that we/I are able to guide those groups with an even better understanding.
Moreover me, Jana Malschewski-Böhm, and other guides of my team made it – we received our DIN EN guiding certificate in 2013. It is the highest training level for a tourist guide in Europe, so you are able to compare guides all over Europe with one Standard. Many qualifications were asked for, before we were invited to the oral/practical exam – a walking tour for members of Bundesverband der Gästeführer Deutschland e.V. Hard training to proof as one of the twelve highest trained guides in Dresden.
Finally I also included slight changes in prices in 2014. The "old" numbers dated back to 2006, when DiscoverDresden was launched!
I try my best to offer reduced prices for couples/small families – depending upon the season and availabilities.
We are looking forward guiding you in Dresden and the surrounding area also in 2014.
Jana Malschewski-Boehm
Tourist Guide Dresden


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ASUS launched a newer version Zenfone Selfie (ZD551KL) in India. Crafted to give your selfie habits a makeover, the all-new Zenfone Selfie offers a powerful performance with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 processor combined with a 3GB RAM and 16GB memory that is expandable up to 128GB. The Zenfone Selfie also comes with a diamond cut back, beautifully fashioned and aimed at delivering a luxury and designer experience to the user. For a price of INR 12,999, the smartphone is available on Amazon now, and will be in retail outlets from September onwards.
Zenfone Selfie offers a 13MP front camera with a f/2.2-aperture, wide-angle (88-degree) lens, dual color real tone flash and selfie panorama. It also supports macro photography that allows the users to capture objects over 6cm. The phone also sports a 13MP rear camera with a f/2.0-aperture, auto- laser focus lens and a dual-color real tone flash. MicroSD card support ensures that users always have space to save their precious memories. A heavy duty battery of 3000mAh also enables diverse and heavy modes of usage.
Commenting on the launch, Peter Chang, Region Head – South Asia & Country Manager for ASUS India said, "The new Zenfone Selfie perfectly encapsulates the creativity of the ASUS design team with the stunning diamond cut back fashioned to deliver a stylish and luxury experience for the consumers. Apart from the design, the smartphone also offers great performance levels with its 3GB RAM and Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 to match the users' performance needs."
Zenfone Selfie is available in a range of exciting colors – Glacier Gray, Sheer Gold, Polygon-Illusion Diamond White, Illusion Polygon Blue, and Illusion Smooth Pink, to suit every user's personal style and fashion sense.

subset: commoncrawl


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Inspired by a home improvement show on TV, my customer bought a riddling rack to make into a pot rack. They contacted me to make the ironwork, which included pot hooks, decorative scrolls, mounting hardware and the chaining hooks to hang it from the ceiling. The toughest part of the forging was getting the four sets of 4 hooks to all be exactly 39.5" long. The customer then added the halogen lights and we recommended a licensed contractor to hang it and take care of the wiring requirements in the attic.
©2005-2012 Kestrel Ridge Forge, LLC | 972-839-9294 | Lucas, TX


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Safety auto shut off after 8 hours. Power consumption: 2W/Voltage: 5V DC. Output: 1 oz. per hour. Powered by Micro USB cable. Water bottle is not included. USB cable, 2 filters and instructions included. RoHS and CE certified. Not recommended for use with essential oils. Price includes 1-color, 1-location screen print. Setup: $55. Repeat setup: FREE. Every effort is made to produce the exact quantity requested. Due to imprinting processes, however, you may receive and be billed for 5% more or less than the quantity ordered.
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text:
All News
ORNL's Communications team works with news media seeking information about the laboratory. Media may use the resources listed below or send questions to firstname.lastname@example.com.
1 - 4 of 4 Results
Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers have discovered a better way to separate actinium-227, a rare isotope essential for an FDA-approved cancer treatment.
In the 1960s, Oak Ridge National Laboratory's four-year Molten Salt Reactor Experiment tested the viability of liquid fuel reactors for commercial power generation. Results from that historic experiment recently became the basis for the first-ever molten salt reactor benchmark.
Scientists from Oak Ridge National Laboratory performed a corrosion test in a neutron radiation field to support the continued development of molten salt reactors.
Experts focused on the future of nuclear technology will gather at Oak Ridge National Laboratory for the fourth annual Molten Salt Reactor Workshop on October 3–4.


text:
- BEFORE: "We're flying you to Columbus, Ohio for training." I'm not sure if that's going to be better or worse than "PowerPoint hell."
- I haven't flown since 2010, so this is going to be interesting.
- It will also be interesting to compare this to my recent Amtrak trip to Dallas (see previous post).
- I recently moved, and I'm so glad I got my new driver's license beforehand due to airport security. The picture on the new license is also of my currently less-fat self.
- Dear Uber driver: This is Texas. Turn on your gol-dang air conditioner.
- TRIP TO COLUMBUS: TSA was quick and pleasant; any delays were self-imposed.
- Then again, not having to do the TSA dance is a point in Amtrak's favor
- Then again, an Amtrak to nearby Cincinnati would have taken nearly 2 days.
- The rollers on the X-Ray scanner quit rolling so we got held up just a little.
- I got to be zapped by the full-body scanner so I may be a little glowy while in Columbus.
- You're darn skippy I'm going to savor every drop of this $3.25 airport Coca-Cola Zero
- Does wearing a Green Lantern ring qualify someone as a peace officer? Asking for a friend
- Coughing at the airport and thinking I should have had some Vitamin C with breakfast this morning
- Flying Southwest. Boarding group: C I guess I'm getting a window seat.
- Make that a center seat, which goes to show how long it's been since I last flew.
- Amtrak seats are definitely better than airplane seats.
- Takeoffs make me a mite nervous, dunno that I'll ever get used to it
- Seatmates aren't very chatty but I have a slight headache so no biggie
- Actually, I talked a little with the gal who had the window seat…good luck with the marketing business!
- Other passengers: Read books and stories. Me: Write some 😉
- While I have a spare phone battery, I'm trying to keep from using it.
- I wonder how long it takes the plane to get out of Texas?
- Pretzels and cheese sandwich crackers. Mmm.
- Thing I forgot: Water bottle, which would have come in handy after the snack.
- I feel obligated to share my 'peanut story' with seatmates. Sorry.
- We're all "random weirdos" here
- Complimentary drinks are a point in flying's favor over Amtrak, but not so much due to the 4-ounce cups that are served.
- Tail's dragging today; I stayed up way too late getting ready for the trip after driving up from Corpus Christi in the morning.
- I would like to sleep but I just can't nod off on the plane. Being in the center seat doesn't help.
- Thought about bringing my tablet along instead of my laptop but decided not to. After trying to type on the plane all squished up I definitely should have bought the tablet instead.
- Slight layover at Chicago Midway International. Part of me wishes I'd bought my fursuit along BECAUSE BEARS.
- Home Run Pizza hit the spot.
- I'm jonesing for some ice cream and I can't find any at the airport. COME ON MAN
- At a Chicago airport yogurt shop:
"Finally, some ice cream!"
"It's frozen yogurt, sir."
"Don't ruin this for me, please."
"Yes, sir. It's ice cream."
- I just realized I should have worn something Texan but settled for furry instead. Oh well.
- I should have bought a bear souvenir while in Chicago. I HAVE FAILED MY PEOPLE.
- Head attendant on the second flight was kind of a wisenheimer, but he was a funny wisenheimer.
- Seatmates were glued to their phones on the second flight up.
- So was I. Yes, they had in flight WiFi, which we didn't have on the flight to Chicago.
- Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi had 80s music, which made for a more pleasant flight!
- The presence of Wi-Fi is another point in air travel's favor, though to get actual Internet you have to pay. I dug the site where you can see your flight progress, though.
- Saw a seatmate playing Solitaire on his phone. Nice.
- Grey and rainy in Columbus. Just as well, given that I'm here for work!
- TRIP HOME: Got an email saying my flight home to San Antonio is delayed a half-hour. Crap.
- Having a company credit card means overpriced airport food is no biggie
- Thanks to my Furry Invasion t-shirt, I got to explain furry to a TSA agent in Columbus, Ohio.
- His coworker helped out, which made me wonder if she had something to share with the class. Hmm.
- Nearly showed up late to my flight home because I thought the plane was delayed (see #44)
- Was relieved to be in Group B for boarding which meant that I may be able to avoid another flight in the middle seat/steerage.
- Plane was only half-filled so I got an aisle seat for the flight home…in the same aisle with a toddler.
- Seatmate had a small dog in a carrier on the floor. Awww!
- Nothing says I'M A FURRY like watching the Walt Disney version of Robin Hood on your laptop for in-flight entertainment
- I was the only one who ordered ginger ale on the trip home so I got the whole can. Score!
- Arrived back home on time, which has me slightly irked at the time goof-up.
- Overall, flying wasn't bad, though I would definitely take an Amtrak over it if I had the time: No TSA, roomier seats, lounge and dining cars, people appear more relaxed, and the ability to walk around the train make the train a much more pleasant experience.
Category Archives: FOOD
300 Seconds Episode #95 – "Home Less"
You are listening to '300 Seconds with Eduardo Soliz,' and this is episode number 95, "Home Less," so let the 300 Seconds begin!
Because life (or something like it) happened, I sold my house a few months ago. Thus, after five years, I'm no longer a homeowner, and there are a few things I already miss about having a house.
To begin with, there is the notion that the place where I live is no longer 'my' place anymore. I'm staying with some friends for the short term, and God bless 'em, because they've been pretty awesome. At the same time, their house isn't my house, you know? When I owned my house, I could do whatever I wanted to, like using an old CD to fix a hole in the drywall or putting the TV set in front of the fireplace. That feeling of 'ownership' is pretty nice and the lack thereof will continue to bother me until I own my home again.
I never had a garage growing up; my parent's house didn't have one, and so I didn't see a need for one on the rare occasions when I was offered one as an option when leasing an apartment. Once I started making use of my house's garage, though, I loved it. I remember being at the laundromat folding clothes one day, when it started raining. I grumped about the rain for a few moments before coming to the delightful realization that I HAD A GARAGE AND I DIDN'T HAVE TO GET WET. I got spoiled by having a garage; now I have to park my vehicle outside and have it, and me, get rained on. But at least I have a place to park at, at my friend's house; I'm really not looking forward to fighting with fellow apartment dwellers for prime parking places in the future.
Another thing I'm going to miss is solitude. I like being by myself, especially after a day of dealing with silly people at work. This isn't really a big deal right now, because my roommates are cool, but once I move into an apartment, having people on the other side of the wall is probably going to drive me nuts…again
But the biggest thing that I miss the most about my old house is having natural gas. It's the best thing for cooking, it's less expensive, and I'm sorry, but you just can't heat tortillas properly on an electric stove or even one of those fancy pants convection ranges. And no, I am never ever, EVER going to put a tortilla into the microwave because that's just WRONG.
This has been 300 Seconds, the next episode will be posted after I warm a tortilla in my toaster oven. I am Eduardo Soliz, if you'd like to listen to, or read, more of my words and short stories, visit my website at Eduardo Soliz dot com. Thank you for listening!
42 Things I Noticed at Guadalupe State Park
It has been a while since my last solo adventure at Guadalupe State Park. I had spent a night with friends in freezing temperatures back in December, but that's neither here nor there. As always, I noticed a few things…
- I wrote this list down on paper and thought about posting scans of the pages. I looked at my terrible handwriting and thought better of it.
- I think I like taking Blanco Road up to the park instead of 281, fewer lights and a more relaxed drive.
- Also more jackasses tailgating you on the slower parts, but what can you do?
- Had to take a site with electricity due to the water-only campsites being worked on, oh well.
- Nothing like that OH GOD, PLEASE DON'T BREAK feeling when putting up tent poles.
- Of course the sun comes out after I set up the tent and go hiking.
- Sound that I don't miss: Vehicles.
- Yes, I have my phone on me, for pictures. With the ringer muted and my smartwatch on, I don't have to worry about missing calls.
- There aren't many people here, which is nice.
- Since I don't go outdoors as often as I should, I find myself constantly wondering what all the noises are.
- Lots of butterflies about, even managed to photograph a few.
- More work in the park being done near the river, not sure what's going on there.
- Beginning of hike: Feels good! One hour later: Whew! Nearing camp on the hike back: OMG ARE WE THERE YET?
- Got spooked by a large bird taking off from the branches above me, nothing like that WOOSH of big wings flapping.
- As I neared camp, I wondered if maybe I should have packed sandwiches instead of canned food.
- Surprised I haven't burned off my eyebrows from lighting my camp stove yet.
- It's nice to have camping cooking equipment instead of borrowing from the kitchen.
- Upon further review, hot food for lunch hit the spot!
- Slightly disappointed that I still have a cell signal, but at the same time it's good to know it's there.
- I'd been going nuts trying to find one of my flashlights only to find I had left it in my tent when I folded it up back in April.
- Note to self: Take the picture first before trying to move in closer. Armadillos spook easily.
- Also: Don't only pack food things that contribute to heartburn. Off to H-E-B.
- Yes, I always have to say 'LET THERE BE LIGHT' whenever I light my lantern.
- Had a story idea pop in my head mid-afternnon. It had an unfortunate ending until a more optimistic one came to me during dinner. Don't write when hangry if you want happy endings.
- If you like them, they're 'critters,' if you don't, they're 'varmints.'
- They had better not be any awoo-ing while I'm trying to sleep tonight.
- Heard a bunch of what I hope were fireworks at around 8:24pm.
- This being Texas, gunfire isn't necessarily unusual, though.
- Shop towels aren't bad for washing dishes.
- Always gotta find that one dark spot in camp for, how can I put it, 'taking care of business' without having to walk to the men's room 😀
- Got spooked by a pair of raccoons fighting in a nearby tree.
- I had put up my food and know to not feed the wildlife, so to the victor, go no spoils.
- I'm not saying I'm paranoid about raccoons, but I'm making damn sure the Excelsior (my Honda CR-v) is locked whenever I'm not nearby.
- Almost fell into temptation during the trip to H-E-B, but avoided stopping at the Whataburger across the street for dinner.
- Thing I forgot: Radio.
- Idea: Replace the 'nut-buster' tripod chair I use in the tent with a small beanbag.
- Nice to know the animal I've been hearing for the last half hour was just an armadillo
- Armadillos are noisy!
- My battery pack can charge my phone all the way…now that I have a smaller phone!
- The overnight weather was perfect, cool without being too cold.
- I chose poorly at breakfast; sometimes a McDonald's McGriddle isn't worth the lousy service.
- Going to pass by my old office on the drive home, going to be hard to not flip the bird at the building as I pass.
As the final hours of the year tick away, I have to say that 2013 was a really good one for me.
After years of dealing with apartments and all that malarkey, I broke down and bought a house. Home ownership has been pretty awesome so far: I went from one-bedroom apartments to a two-bedroom house with a garage and a huge backyard and rabbits and I can barbeque and have friends over and I love it. Given the age of the house, home repairs and replacing things will eventually come but for now its been smooth sailing.
On the e-book front, I decided to try to sell printed copies of my work at a few conventions and events and failed spectacularly, at least from a business standpoint. I can count my total sales on my hands. People just don't read much anymore, or at least not the types of folks that go to anime or furry conventions. On the plus side, I did get to talk to lots of folks, present some panels and if nothing else, hopefully inspire some folks to 'go it alone' themselves. I only published one new e-book (should have been two, but life and all that) and definitely need to up my output next year.
2013 was a fun year of conventions, camping, writing, video games, furries, cookies, home maintenance and most importantly, friends and family. I am optimistic that 2014 will be even better; my goal is to compete at least two story collections as well as the follow-up to "The Rules of Tech Support," which is my best-seller so far. I am also hoping to attend some new conventions, make new friends, and well, get some work done on the house. So without any further ado:
51 Things I Noticed at Oklacon 11
This year marked my second Oklacon, and I did a much better job of keeping up my usual list despite, or maybe because I kept it on old-fashioned paper!
- Fursuit parts are apparently very good for keeping yourself warm.
- This is a great con for attention whores: Just yell or talk very loudly and EVERYONE on the campsite can hear you.
- Anyone playing the guitar at 7AM should be shot or at least kicked in the nards.
- I'm thinking that its about time to retire my old Sears Hillary tent. 😦
- I was happy I could get a signal on my Verizon iPad in nearby Watonga, OK, but then I got to the campsite annnd its gone!
- Even instant cappuccino tastes great when you've been sleeping in 30-degree weather.
- I'm not sure which is bothering me more: not wearing my university ring or not having a comb in my pocket.
- Someday Dr. Nuka will tire of my 'What's up Doc?' greeting and get all sciencey on my tail.
- Somehow 'All My Exes Live In Texas' got stuck in my head.
- They should probably make sure the participants are able to play volleyball out of suit first.
- Plastic hammer + heavy metal stakes = FAIL
- I was a bit overdue for a shave on Thursday but the cold is keeping me from doing so.
- Good idea: Putting QR codes on my dealer's table sign. Almost Good Idea: Putting QR codes on my dealer's table sign at a con where cell reception sucks.
- Maybe its just me, other folks seem to be doing just fine. Just what I need: another reason to dump Sprint.
- I learned today that Canada apparently has its own version of Texas called Alberta. The thought that each country in the world may have its own 'Texas' might explain a lot…and fills me with fear.
- One of the researchers was having problems with her camera and was getting frustrated, I had to quip: "This is the part where they usually call me at work."
- Even though I'm not at work, my tail was still dragging at about 4PM…should have had that second cup of coffee!
- The collective rolling of eyes could almost be heard whenever someone insisted they were the only one in the furry fandom whose fursona was an X.
- Best money I've spent recently: $15 for a small stool for sitting in the tent; its a little snug in the forbidden zone, but otherwise worked well.
- Its funny how the lack of data turned my smartphone into a glorified watch…and a phone.
- I only posted once to social media all weekend and haven't missed it. It feels good to be talking to people that are actually sane.
- The rain snuck up on us Friday night but surprisingly nothing got into the tent…there but for the grace of God go I.
- Unlike last year, the bathrooms were kept up and I even contributed by plunging a few times and even fixing a toilet, nice to put that homeowner skill to use.
- I should have been annoyed by Reville being played at 9am, but instead I found it amusing…because I was already awake.
- My writing panel went well, four people showed up!
- Hot dogs? At a furry con? Say it ain't so!
- My laptop is a battery…a big, frakking, heavy battery.
- The zipper on my tent was misbehaving and the first thing that came to mind was 'MY KINGDOM FOR SOME DUCT TAPE!'
- Things I forgot to bring: wet naps, duct tape, mayonnaise and once again, a roll of toilet paper.
- I could only not shave for so long, Saturday night the face fuzz was gone.
- I might need to switch to Mountain Dew from coffee, the Dew seemed to keep Nuka going.
- He graciously gave me one of his, and I gave him some of my cough drops, balance of the universe and all that.
- Yeah, it was great to hear my dealer-neighbors bicker back and forth like an old married couple…which they probably were.
- Furries apparently really hate sports, which is yet another way I stick out in that club in addition to being straight and over 30.
- From the 'clever idea' department: Previous year's con shirts: $12 for 1 or $10 for 2
- Hearing the rules for 'Predator and Prey' made me think of 'Calvinball.'
- When in Rome: I got mustard on my camera's strap during lunch and my first instinct was to try to suck/gnaw it off.
- Part of me want to either stay in a tent alone or get an A-frame bunk next year…hmm.
- f I had known coffee cups/mugs were going to be sold at the auction I would have been there in a shot.
- I wonder what the organizer thought when I gave him my tax form that said "Sales: $4"
- A guy nearby needed help tearing down his 'insta-tent.' I knew there was a reason I didn't like those things.
- Well, that and they cost twice as frakking much.
- Very thankful to have a second person in the car on the drive home, I probably would have had to stop for sleep otherwise.
- Saw so many Braum's burger/ice cream/grocery joints on the drive up/back that we had to stop at one on the way home. Quite good! Still haven't been to Waffle House.
- Put over 1,100 miles on the Excelsior the whole trip and used up just over two and a half tankfuls of gas.
- Flying J has REALLY good coffee. That, or drinking instant coffee at work for so long has ruined my taste buds.
- We encountered absolutely zero traffic problems on I-35 from Oklahoma City all the way down UNTIL we hit San Antonio and spent 25 frakking minutes going the last 5 miles home…REALLY, SAN ANTONIO?
- Good Idea: Empty fridge beforehand so no food goes bad during the drip. Problem: No food in fridge to eat upon return.
- While I only sold 2 storybooks during the weekend, it was still 2 more than I sold during Furry Fiesta. *shrug*
- Thank you, Sharon.
- I can't wait to do it again!
How Home Sweet Home It Is!
After years of dealing with annoying neighbors one wall (or floor) over, lousy parking, poor management, constantly increasing rents and not being able to own a cat without a big deposit and paying 'pet rent.' I am finally going to take the plunge and buy a house. I'm almost there, too: if all goes well I'll be a homeowner within a few weeks.
Its a big step for me and more than a little bit scary. For better or for worse, I am setting down roots here in San Antonio. There's also the whole 'what happens if I lose my job' bit, but these days, that cloud is constantly hovering over everyone's head, so that's nothing new. Instead, I choose to focus on the Good Things associated with having my own home:
It's my house, and if you don't like it… – On a philosophical level, an apartment is never 'really' yours, and it will be nice to do whatever I want without having to ask myself whether I'll be dinged for something when I move out. Also, there is the whole 'investment' angle, but I don't care too much about that. In my opinion, the mentality of the home one lives in being an 'asset' instead of a 'home' is partially to blame for the nutzoid homeowner's associations I always hear about in the news.
More room! – I have always lived in one-bedroom apartments and even lived in a efficiency once when things got tight. Unless I get a Unabomber special (i.e. an isolated shack) I'll be getting a 2-bedroom house at the bare minimum and it will more than likely have a garage, too. That's going to be a LOT of extra space that I'm not sure I know what to do with. I might rent out the extra room and I hear garages are great places to store things. I'm also looking forward to hosting parties again, it has been way too long since I've hosted a Super Bowl or New Year's Eve gathering.
Do What I Want – One of the crappier parts of living in apartments is you have to be careful with your noise level lest you arouse the ire of your neighbors. While I am not a very noisy person, I do like to turn up the sound when I play video games and movies and have occasionally been 'that guy' that has had his stereo or surround sound system up too loud. Conversely, I have also had to bang on a few doors and tell neighbors to tone it down.
WOW a Garage! – My parent's house does not have a garage and so I have never had the pleasure of having one. Based on what I have seen from friends, I understand it is a storage space. I might go nuts and actually keep my vehicle in mine.
KITTEH! – I have wanted to have a cat for some time, but as I mentioned in the intro, certain things about apartments have kept me from getting one. I can now acquire a cat and hug him and pet him and hold him and call him George. 🙂
Good Old Gas – My parents have a gas stove, and it is awesome. I have not lived in a place that has had a gas stove since I moved out, and cooking food has royally sucked since. One of my requirements for a home is that it have a gas connection so that I can once again experience the joy of heating up tortillas and hot dogs the way God intended.
House Party – When I had a bigger apartment a few years ago, I loved having friends over for games and even Super Bowl and New Year's parties or two. It won't be too long before I'll be hosting get-togethers and this time we can crank up the tunes! 😀
Buying a house is big and scary and fraught with pitfalls, but I'll take the hits as they come and look forward to the good things that come with owning a home, like freshly-warmed tortillas!
Headlines and Butterflies
I don't have a family of my own as of yet, so I spend Thanksgiving with my parents. I drive down to my hometown, catch up with friends, bake a pie or two, eat lots of Mom's good food, watch football and maybe do a little shopping. I also make it a point to read the town newspaper. I saw the article pictured at right and chuckled to myself, thinking: 'yeah, its amateur night.' It also made me think about the time I had applied for a job at that same newspaper years ago.
I didn't get the gig because I didn't have any writing samples on me at the time. I remember being irritated about that after the fact because I have two college degrees and this wasn't exactly The Washington Post I was applying to. "How hard is it to write about honor rolls, City Council meetings and the occasional tractor accident?" I probably thought to myself at the time.
I got over it, life went on and I would eventually go on to write other things: short stories, video game reviews, podcasts and this blog. I never again thought about the snub until I saw that poorly written headline. As people are oft to do, I started to think about 'what might have been.' I quickly dismissed those thoughts to the back recesses of my mind, because I had better things for it to do, like get to work on the two short stories I need to have done by the end of next week.
Among other things, I subscribe to what is called the "Butterfly Effect." Simply put, it states that a small change can ultimately have a much larger impact at a later point in time. "Does the flapping of a butterfly's wings in Brazil set off a tornado in Texas," and all that. You see the theory mentioned a lot in science fiction, especially where time travel is concerned, and it is also the title of a movie that I've never bothered to see.
Thus, I believe that if you are truly happy in your current situation, you cannot have any regrets at all. Even the smallest decision or event from years ago may have significantly altered your destiny. So don't waste your time wistfully thinking about 'what might have been.' If you are not happy with your situation, do something about it, even if it is a small step. Small steps can eventually lead to something bigger and doing something is always better than doing nothing. On the other hand:
If you are content with your life…
Be happy,
Be thankful,
but most of all, be you.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.
Oklacon 2012 Journal #1: Off the Grid
Oklacon is just a few days away, and I am in the process of getting things ready: making a list of equipment to bring, topping off stuff with fuel, getting warmer clothing out of storage, making sure I have plenty of batteries, and so on and so forth. In viewing various posts here and there I had heard of something called 'cell phone hill' so on a hunch, I decided to check Sprint's coverage.
Yikes. It looks as if I'm going to be outside of Sprint's coverage area, so I'm going to be roaming, which probably means no data. Now, I presume that no data means no internets, and I find myself just a little bit apprehensive at the thought of really being 'off the grid.' As you may guess, I'm one of those people that is always checking my smartphone or laptop for e-mails or Facebook posts or tweets or comments on my blogs (like this one!) and so on and so forth.
While the thought of not having access to the tubes is a little bit scary (I think I may have a problem), on the other hand, its something else I can take a vacation from, and it'll probably do me some good…I hope!
24 Things I Noticed While Moving for the Umpteenth Time
I turned in the keys to my old apartment today, and so I once again bid farewell to one apartment while getting settled into a new one.
- Whily my method of shuttling stuff back and forth with my compact car is horribly inefficient, it gets me plenty of exercise.
- Okay, yeah, its ridonkulous and I should just do everything at once next time.
- I thought "why is it pink instead of blue?" upon seeing the toilet paper and rubber duckie above and then I saw the Susan G. Komen card and pink ribbon. Ohhhh. Derp.
- Speaking of which, I always leave a roll of toilet paper in the old place. I'm not sure why, its just something I do.
- Sometimes I wonder if I am really this elated at being here, or am I just high from paint fumes?
- It only took two trips to move the crap that wouldn't fit in my car, so yeah, I should have packed everything else up.
- Cable guys are much more efficient when you have the apartment folks call them.
- That's a good thing, too, because once again, I'm facing the wrong way to get a satellite. Rats.
- Digital thermostats are awesome.
- The new place's built-in shelves can hold all of my games and movies, and it is BEAUTIFUL!
- I have been in such a better mood now that my commute has been cut in half. God, how I hate traffic, and once those really tall ramps (or skyways as I like to call 'em) on 281/1604 are done, the commute should be smooth sailing.
- My commute should be cut about in half, which is good because holy cats, gas is getting expensive!
- It really says something when even the dollar store in the new neighborhood is nicer.
- The nearest HEB is an older one. Somehow, this isn't a problem.
- The nearest Wal-Mart got upgraded from a "Raunchy-Mart" to a Supercenter since my last visit. Nice.
- The nearest Best Buy might just be a little too close, I think I need to freeze my credit card…I mean literally, as in ICE.
- I should have gotten rid of that old living room furniture a LONG time ago.
- Shopping for new furniture has been a drag so far, maybe I should just get a bunch of beanbags, or move my bed into the living room.
- Moving stuff while working the 9-6 shift work during the wintertime SUCKS.
- Really, it wasn't until that first Saturday that I went, "Gee, this is what this place looks like during the day."
- The water heater at my old place didn't hold enough hot water to take a bath, no wonder I was so cranky there.
- The oven here isn't much bigger than the one at my old place, but at least it has A LIGHT! Seriously, the last one felt like an Easy-Bake.
- The margin of error on that thing is pretty darn thin, though, one long paragraph or trip to the bathroom and I end up with dark brown instead of golden brown cookies.
- My TV looks kind of small now, maybe its time to upgrade! 🙂
In Defense of the Christmas Creeps
I was flipping through the radio stations as I was driving into work today to find that San Antonio station KQXT 101.9 had already started their annual Christmas music marathon. Now, I love Christmas music, but the fact that they were doing so a week before Thanksgiving struck me as being just a hair too early.
The phenomena is known as "Christmas Creep." While on a certain level it is getting ridiculous, there is one argument against it that I can't get onboard with. It goes like this: "Why does Christmas stuff have to come around so soon…what about Thanksgiving?"
What about Thanksgiving?
There really isn't much to it. Most folks will travel, spend a day or two with loved ones and perhaps enjoy a turkey dinner. That's it. Thanksgiving is just what it says on the box: a day to give thanks and get a day off from work (or a four-day weekend if you are truly fortunate).
While Thanksgiving is special to many people, it isn't sacred by any stretch of the imagination. Heck, some stores have gone from opening at oh-dark-thirty the day after to opening late on Thanksgiving Day itself.
To be fair, let's look at it from the store's perspective: Thanksgiving does little for stores that don't sell food, so I don't really blame them for wanting to get an early jump on the Christmas shopping season.
So yeah, while stores opening on Thanksgiving Day sucks and getting jump on Christmas in September or even October is a bit much, I think the week before Thanksgiving is just fine for retailers to start getting the ball rolling.
Finally, I should confess that I have been tuning to that Christmas music station on occasion, so I'm probably part of the problem. 🙂


text: Blue Line and Gun Barrels are the two best runs for finding the powder at Whistler. You still have to wake up early to get it but its totally worth it! We stayed close to the village at a great spot that had a hot tub and was close to the village. Burgers at a restaurant next door. Totally great day!


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Warm Fava Bean & Spiced Roasted Vegetable Salad 03/09/2017, Recipes
Perfect all year round, this salad is both warming and refreshing at the same time. A favourite among the fresh-range team.
Serves 4+
Carrots (about a bunch)
1 Red Onion
2-3 Cloves Garlic
150 g White Cheese (feta or simliar)
100-200 g Olives
Fresh Mint
1 Little Gem Lettuce
Loaf Sourdough
400 g Fava Beans
Half a Lemon
Cumin seeds
Cooking oil (we use rapeseed)
1. Roughly chop the red onion, carrots and garlic. Keep the carrots and red onion in reasonable chunks or they'll disintegrate. Place in a roasting dish with a good glug of oil. Sprinkle liberally with cumin seeds then place in the oven for 20 mins.
2. While the veg is roasting, rinse the fava beans then place them in a mixing bowl. Add a little oil (aprox. 1 tablespoon) and squeeze in the lemon juice.
3. After the veg has roasted for 20 mins, remove from the oven, coat the carots in honey and return everything to the oven for a final 5 mins.
4. Remove everything from the oven and leave to cool.
5. Roughly chop the fresh mint leaves and de-leaf the little gem lettuce then add both to the fava beans. Give everything in the bowl a quick mix.
6. Add everything in the bowl to the roasting dish and mix well with the warm vegetables.
7. Crumble the white cheese over the top and serve with a slice of sourdough.


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Thanks to the rise of so-called "Instagram face", and editing apps like FaceTune and Photoshop, many of us have forgotten what real skin actually looks like.
From expertly chiseled cheekbones to plump lips and flawlessly airbrushed skin, these types of app have a lot to answer for; namely our obsession with wanting to completely eradicate our pores.
Spoiler alert: you can't. While there are hundreds of products and articles that promise to erase them from existence, the truth is they're normal, natural and totally necessary.
That being said, there are a number of things you can do to minimise their visibility and stop them expanding.
Let's start with the basics. What are pores and why do they sometimes appear to increase in size?
According to cosmetic dermatologist Sam Bunting, pores are the visible end of a flimsy funnel – otherwise known as the sebaceous gland duct – that transports sebum, an oily substance that helps keep the skin and hair moisturised, to the skin's surface and is held in its upright position by the "scaffolding" protein collagen.
While pores don't open and close as some people suggest, there are a number of reasons they become more visible over time.
"Firstly, increased transit of sebum through the funnel makes the pore more visible – this happens at puberty, due to the change in sex hormones, and it happens as we get older, when ageing and UV damage mean collagen breaks down, allowing the pore to flop open more," Bunting tells The Independent.
"Summer can also make pores look bigger because oil flows more freely when it's at a higher temperature – something we can't really control. And if we lose collagen through sun exposure and sunbed use, we lose the structure around the pores, making them appear larger."
If the appearance of your pores is getting to you, there are a few things you can do prevent them from getting clogged and therefore becoming more visible; the first of which is a good skincare routine.
"By stimulating collagen production pores can also appear smaller,"Bunting explains.
"In addition, a gentle retinoid at night will help reduce pore clogging and maintain collagen supplies. A daily sunscreen also helps prevent UV related collagen degradation."
The final line of attack you can try is to use makeup to mask them.


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Black Round Neck Long Sleeve Bodycon Party DressSKU: 013885
DescriptionIt's all fashion from here, just start with this stylish dress and you will have everyone's attention. It features round neck, long sleeve styling, special hem design, stretch fabric makes you feel very comfy. Model Info: Height: 173cm | Bust:86cm | Waist: 62cm | Hips: 89cm Wear Size: Medium
Fabric: Polyester
Neckline: Round Neck
Sleeve Length: Long Sleeve
Dress Length: Mini
Style: Party
Silhouette: Bodycon
Size Chart(Inch) ONE-SIZE Bust 33.1-40.2 Hips 35.4-43.3 Length 36.2-43.3 Waist 26.8-36.2 Size Chart(CM) ONE-SIZE Bust 84-102 Hips 90-110 Length 92-110 Waist 68-92
The dimensions data from the measurement of the product, "click here" to see the measuring methods details, and allow 1-2cm (0.4-0.8") differences due to manual measurement, thanks.
Actual fabric colors may vary slightly from online colors due to variations in screen color settings.
30 Days Return + Shipping PolicyShipping & Delivery
Receiving time = Processing time + Shipping time
Note: In orders with more than one item, the processing time will be based on the item with the longest processing time.
We will prepare your order after it have verified. Such as: strict quality control, arrange the suitable carriers.Return Policy
Return within 30 days from the delivered date.
1. Items received within 30 days from the delivered date.
2. Items received unused, undamaged and in original package.


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Collaboration NieuweStroom
NieuweStroom creates the acceleration of energy into a clean and future-proof energy system. The innovative energy company connects customers with dynamic prices, with which customers immediately save money and become more sustainable. We are going to help with this transition. Together with NieuweStroom we are going to get started with a repositioning in the market. Rebranding of the logo, proposition, tone of voice, website. Everything will be covered. An intensive process in close collaboration. And that's what we like. To work together. Because We RS.
More news
New Customer: Zuyderland
Zuyderland is the largest medical center in Limburg.
New edition Think Yachts Think Holland
We recently designed the new edition of Think Yachts Think Holland magazine.
New campaign ADV Limburg
We assisted ADV Limburg in creating more brand awareness.
Summer is calling
We all need a break sometimes.
Music is everything
Yes it is! We love music. In fact, we can't work without it.
A website a day…
Websites. We have lost count how many we have made. Hundreds maybe!
New identity and site SheSuit Amsterdam
We created a new identity and website together with SheSuit.
What's in a name
We call ourselves Creative Consultants. Sounds fancy, right? But what is it exactly that we do?
New sites EuroFibers
Together with EuroFibers we created two websites.
Change is good
You may have noticed. Something has changed a little. Our name!


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Chronic Pain Sufferers See the Brighter Side with Cognitive Behavorial Therapy
Like the sayings, "Think positive" and "Look on the brighter side," cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), effective for chronic pain and depression, promotes the replacement of dysfunctional thoughts for more positive ones.
Our mind, a source of thoughts and feelings, allows us to experience sensations, including those of pain. Even though pain signals are processed by our brain, they are heavily influenced by our mind, making connection between the mind and body quite interesting. Feelings of hopelessness, associated with depression and chronic pain, enhance negative thinking, which can intensify pain signals and increase feelings of distress and despair. This persistent process can leave you stuck in negativity.
CBT focuses on altering distorted belief, attitude, and expectation patterns by substituting a new response to a given stimulus and shows individuals how to evaluate things in a more balanced manner. Rather than perceiving things as either black or white, good or bad, or sick or healthy, one can begin to see shades of gray. Good days are noticed amongst the bad ones, and resentment and pessimism begin to fade.
Three principles of CBT are to recognize the problems, to offer retraining of coping skills, and to teach the patient how to apply these skills in everyday life with relaxation training, activity pacing, advance scheduling, cognitive restructuring, problem solving, visual imagery, distraction strategies and goal setting.
Having an unhealthy attitude can impair rationality, complicate adaptability, and create inflexibility and negativity. However, being optimistic, focusing on the positive, using a support system, scheduling time for fun, and laughing can help you challenge life's obstacles, such as the pain you are experiencing. CBT can train you to how to repeat short positive statements called "affirmations" to yourself such as "It could have been worse" or "I can get through this," as well as "automatic thoughts or self-talk" such as "I can do it" or "I am stronger than this." This type of training can change your thought, perception, and response process, by reframing your mind.
The fact is that having a positive mindset is important, especially for those who have suffered a trauma such as a car accident, surgery, chronic illness or constant pain. It has been widely observed that, those who are optimistic improve more quickly and suffer less, than others whose "self-talk" is filled with "I am worthless," "Nothing ever goes right for me" or "My whole day is ruined."
Fortunately, studies have shown that combining CBT with analgesics and/or anti-depressants can offer relief to sufferers of chronic pain with or without depression and put them back in control.
The key is to realize that only you can change yourself, not other people, and that some situations cannot be changed. However, you can change the way you react to them.Hits: 2635


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Today we are going to be doing our first product review! This is not sponsored at all, we want to share with our community some insight into how to maximize efficiency and productivity while being a relatively small company. Monday.com is a visual project management tool that aims to transform the way teams work together. They do this by having a single board, this allows everyone on the project to see who is working on what and instantly provide information on where the project is, if it's at a stand-still or if its ready to be presented to the client.
Features and Strengths:
Visual Project Management system –
At TPrimmz we are visually inclined, and this shows in the productivity software that we use. One of the biggest strengths that Monday.com has is, it absolutely knocks it out of the park for visuals. As you can see in the figure below, it's clear immediately the level of attention to detail and thought that has gone into creating this software. In this example, let's work with Project 1, as you can see project 1 has column's that are fully customizable. If your process looks different than this, you can add or get rid of any columns that you want giving you complete control. What we love so much about this software is just how clean it looks and how easy it is to understand and use.
Centralize Communication and Document Management –
Monday.com brilliantly creates this system were all notifications are at a centralized location. It gives you the option to be broad and speak with the entire team working on the project or allow direction communication with @ mentions. This can be seen in the figure below. These are real-time mentions this means that team members can provide immediate feedback and with comments or informing you that they have looked at it! This feature tied with the document management system used makes Monday.com to other productivity software. The document management allows all documents to be centralized and it's as easy as dragging and dropping them into the application.
Management Tool –
While we know that our employee's at TPrimmz are extremely good at their jobs and go above and beyond, we know that some tasks will need deliberation and/or help from others. This visual project management software is great to informing managers or even fellow team members who might be overtasked and what parts others can do to take the weight off of their coworker's shoulders. While this is a less tangible effect we argue that it has been pivotal to creating the tight knit, family we have at TPrimmz!
Overall, if you have been looking for a productivity software we, at TPrimmz, would strongly recommend Monday.com. The best part is like most companies they have a free trial period, test it out and let us know what you think! If you found this article helpful let us know! Check out our latest blog post here! If you don't see a topic that you want to get our thoughts on shoot us an email or a comment and we'll look at it. Cheers!


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Common sense CHC sentences too low: Shanmugam
Common sense that sentences in City Harvest case were too low, he added
The Government will ask Parliament to amend the law to ensure that directors and other senior officers who commit criminal breach of trust (CBT) will face stiffer penalties.
Minister for Home Affairs and Law K. Shanmugam said this in Parliament yesterday while referring to the sentences passed in the City Harvest Church (CHC) case.
He said it was common sense they were too low and the punishment should have been more severe.
Mr Shanmugam said the changes to the law will be made with other wide-ranging amendments to the Penal Code.
His comments came after the Court of Appeal last Thursday upheld a ruling by the High Court that disallowed stiffer sentences for CHC founder Kong Hee and five other church leaders for misusing church funds.
The Minister highlighted that the Court of Appeal had acknowledged this gap in the law.
"If you are a senior officer, director in the organisation, you are in a position of greater trust, you have considerable authority to make decisions in relation to the organisation's assets.
"If you abuse that trust, you should be more culpable and you should be liable for more severe punishments compared to an ordinary employee," he added.
He also addressed the public dissatisfaction of the sentences and the online chatter about the judges.
He said that while it was fine to express unhappiness, it should not descend into abuse or contempt.
"Judges should not be personally attacked, their integrity impugned, just because people do not agree with their decision," he said.
He also revealed that the Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) is looking into an edited newspaper report uploaded onto a Facebook group that claimed that a lawyer from the People's Action Party (PAP) had saved the CHC sextet from heavier sentences.
He mentioned this online falsehood in his reply to Mr Gan Thiam Poh (Ang Mo Kio GRC), who had asked about comments that the CHC case had been handled by lawyer Edwin Tong, a PAP MP (Marine Parade GRC).
Last night, the AGC released a statement saying it had written to the man who had uploaded the post on Friday.
AGC said: "AGC will take firm action against contempt of court, including institution of committal proceedings in appropriate instances."
Warning against adopting a mob mentality, Mr Shanmugam said: "This sort of attack, based on deliberate faking, is quite unacceptable.
" I cannot see how any reasonable person will justify such faking as a legitimate expression of free speech.
"I have asked the police to take a serious view of those who scandalise the court."
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now


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People with hypertension who had a gene variant that reduces vitamin D activation within the body have been discovered to be twice as doubtless as those without the variant to have congestive heart failure, the study found. The bodily atmosphere is maybe the most important factor that ought to be thought-about when classifying the health standing of an individual. Furthermore, the World Health Group lists a variety of different factors that can influence the well being of a person. Overall well being is achieved through a mixture of bodily, psychological, and social well-being, which, together is usually known as the Well being Triangle. Dark chocolate is good to your coronary heart health, however simply ensure that it is at the least 70 % cocoa.
Through the turn of the seasons of these years, Chika Nishiyama, Kyoto Prefectural College researcher, observed that the incidence of heart assault after a sizzling bath 10 occasions higher when a person doing this behavior in the winter.
However, calcium supplements present a brief-term spike, which clearly could be detrimental affect on the body. Cook up every week of tasty, coronary heart healthy meals with these recipes from the DASH eating plan. This consists of factors such as clear water and air, secure homes, communities and roads all contribute to good health. I'm not saying that eating GMO foods is the one trigger for these circumstances however I'm positive it is a vital contributor (along with processed meals, however that's a narrative for a unique day).
Due to the health insurance policies and the actions public health professionals develop, the 20th century has registered a decrease of the mortality charges in infants and youngsters and a continuing enhance in life expectancy. The advantages of a high quality fish oil are countless (as I've written about within the FAT chapter of your Food plan Answer Guide) and really ought to be part of anyone's nutrition plan…ladies, males, youngsters…everyone. Study ldl cholesterol, its components, well being effects, and ways to enhance your ldl cholesterol to cut back your threat of a coronary heart assault.
Within the UK heart illness accounts for nearly a hundred,000 deaths every year, with coronary heart disease being the largest single reason for dying! One sachet of Betavivo offers 3g of beta-glucan, the daily amount required for the well being benefits.


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Have you ever tried to manifest weather conditions?
At first, I was skeptical. But after the experience that wishes can summon trash bags, I thought, 'Why not?'
On a sunny summer day, my son and I were at a playground. It was a vacation, and I had ordered warm weather for the entire week. But my son had an issue with the sunny weather.
"Mommy, see what you have done! The metal of the jungle gym has heated up too much. It is too hot to touch it. You should wish for clouds now!"
I replied, "Ok, let's pray for some clouds, but you have to help me."
I didn't really expect this to work since the sky was clear blue all over. But we could at least give it a try.
We sat there for about two minutes, when suddenly some small clouds started to appear before the sun.
'Yeah,' I thought, 'nice try, but that tiny white patch on the sky will be gone in a minute.'
But, no! Across the blue sky, there was a steady stream of small clouds, just big enough so they would cover the sun, one after another. And that lasted for about three to four hours!
The metal of the jungle gym cooled down and my son was happy.
I've had several experiences where I felt that my wishes seemed to have influenced the weather. The key ingredients for the manifestation were the same as for any other wish. However, the important thing was to learn how to turn the 'volume knob' carefully ( – please keep that in mind and don't cause a flood if you just want a little rain).
Am I going crazy because I believe that thoughts can influence the weather? Well, it seems that I'm not the only one. I've found more examples of manifesting weather in the literature
(Time Is an Illusion, by Chris Griscom; long time no see, by Carrie Triffet).
Daylle Deanna Schwartz shares some stories around wishing for weather in this post:
[Edit Sept 6, 2017:] Here is a story of how inner peace can calm a storm (transcript of a Raj channeling):
"When Paul and Susan lived on Kauai and hurricane Iniki came through, and they were sitting in the middle of 200 [mile-per]-hour winds and feeling their teeth going like this [some sound and/or motion], they had the opportunity and the invitation, you might say, to panic. And when it came right down to it, they made commitment to not panic. They made commitment to life, rather than death and the fear of death. And I told them that the fact that they made commitment to their peace and to life, instead of fear, was what caused every house on their street to suffer almost no damage. And that if they had managed to stay completely in their peace, in spite of all the evidence, there would not have even been a wind or a breeze on the property they were on. "
Source : Raj (aka Jesus) channeled by Paul Tuttle, http://heavenlydesigns.homestead.com/Gathering.html, 1996, Asilomar Gathering, page 53-54(of 142).
Reality 'out there' is not really 'out there' , and it is much more pliable than we might have assumed. And the purpose of all these stories about manifestation was to teach me this lesson:
that I am not my body-mind, but that I am creative consciousness.


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Do you want your wedding day style to reflect the high-fashion runway pieces you love to obsess over? Filled with architectural detailing, breathtaking silhouettes, and statement-making drama? We get it. Sometimes bridal styles just read too traditional or one-size-fits-all – and that's just not you. If you pride yourself of being a trendsetter during all your fanciest dress-up occasions, we have a feeling that the Naeem Khan Bridal Fall 2019 collection will be calling your name.
Beyond your standard white wedding gowns and eggshell lace, this collection is composed of stunning bridal jumpsuits, dramatic skirts, creative sleeves, and an inspiring mix of textures. Each look in this range features the ultra-luxurious couture detailing that captures your attention immediately: they are delicate, yet strong.
The designer has been showcasing jumpsuits in his regular fashion line and his bridal shows for several years now, and each season they just keep getting more striking.
"I thought it might last for like maybe a couple of seasons. But every time I'm out I see lots of people buying jumpsuits and wearing jumpsuits," designer Naeem Khan has said about making the bold style choice a brand signature. "So we continue the tradition of jumpsuits. A little different: different embroidering, different colors, different cuts."
The intricate details and beautiful craftsmanship in every corner of the collection are truly out-of-this-world. Each piece consists of impeccable features like hand-cut organza sleeves, crystal beaded patterns, thread embroidered veils, hand-embroidered chiffon, vintage-inspired beaded fringe, lace underlays, hand-cut silver sequins, and more. Modern brides will rejoice at the chance to try something different, yet fashionistas with a nostalgia for tradition won't lose any of that bridal charm.
Click through the gallery below to view the stunning Naeem Khan Bridal Fall 2019 collection lookbook.
More news from the Naeem Khan brand.
More designers' Fall 2019 bridal collections.
All images Naeem Khan via Brides


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A total of 75 students from Horse Lake Elementary School travelled with their classroom teachers Leslie Dickson, Marie Matwick, Margaret Ramsay and Marissa Ball to hit the road with their musical troupe to visit and entertain seniors on the morning of Dec. 15.
The classes went on a Christmas Concert tour to Carefree Manor and Fischer Place/Mill Site Lodge to perform for the senior citizens, says school receptionist Vicky Santelli.
"The children and their performances brought smiles of enjoyment, as well as the warm feeling of Christmas to everyone who attended.
"Their teachers remarked that all the students were courteous and showed their best behaviour."
Santelli adds the students' concert performance was "well done" and presented as a gift of music to the elderly of the community.


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So complicated has prime minister Johnson's pathway to lifting the lockdown become, it seems, that he has had to issue a 60-page "users' manual", presumably in an attempt to help us chart our way through the process.
But, when it comes to dealing with the core functions necessary to deal with the Covid-19 epidemic, suppressing the infection, it is hard not to conclude that we are dealing with a malevolent stupidity which seems to transcend anything the government has done so far.
The issue, of course, is the programme which can be loosely described as "contact tracing" but which, in fact, involves far more than that. An effective programme will require all suspected cases to notify the health authorities, following which three things must happen in short order.
Firstly, if not already arranged, the suspect case is required to isolate – preferably in a controlled environment such as an isolation hostel. Secondly, an immediate test is conducted, with priority given to reporting the result. Thirdly, the case is interviewed by an experienced contact tracer, who will record all relevant contacts for follow-up.
As to the contacts, the procedure is repeated, with immediate isolation and testing. If symptomatic and/or the test is positive, contact tracing is repeated. If contacts are asymptomatic, and their tests prove negative, they are released from isolation.
However, from the lockdown "users' manual", it becomes very clear that such a programme is not what the government has in mind. It has no commitment to the scheme and is not making available the resources necessary for it to be effective.
A clue to this can be found early in the document, where the very first mention of contact tracing is found in a paragraph headed: "There is no easy or quick solution", with the statement: "Only the development of a vaccine or effective drugs can reliably control this epidemic and reduce mortality without some form of social distancing or contact tracing in place".
This muddled sentence follows on from the prime minister's foreword, which puts him firmly in influenza pandemic territory, where he asserts that: "It is clear that the only feasible long-term solution lies with a vaccine or drug-based treatment". But there he does concede that "a mass vaccine or treatment may be more than a year away", and then warns that "in a worst-case scenario, we may never find a vaccine".
Thus, working to the original influenza plan is no longer an option, which sought to "buy time" for a vaccine to arrive, treating the sufferers with antiviral drugs, – which will not stop the spread but could make the virus less dangerous.
Whether in a year's time or sometime never, we cannot afford to wait for a vaccine – we never could. After another year of rigorous controls, on top of what we have just been through, we will no longer have an economy capable of sustaining life as we've come to know it. Therefore, we have no choice but to suppress the infection without resort to a vaccine.
And yet, in this, Johnson has already given up. He (and, presumably, his advisors), are still working to the influenza plan, which states: "It will not be possible to halt the spread of a new pandemic influenza virus, and it would be a waste of public health resources and capacity to attempt to do so".
In his muddle, though, he refers to having "some form of social distancing or contact tracing in place", putting the two entirely separate processes on a par. And then, to compound the error, in the next reference to contact tracing, it is described as one of the government's "mitigation measures".
Therein we get an insight into the government's real opinion of contact tracing. It sees the only control mechanism we have, short of a vaccine, as a "mitigation measure". This is a dangerous – and, for some, a fatal – flaw in the government's thinking.
When we then get to a dedicated section in the "plan", we find that it is not devoted to contact tracing as such, but to "testing and tracing". This perpetuates the muddled thinking, confusing the general testing programme with what should be the high-priority, targeted process of testing suspected cases and their contacts.
Having then conflated the two, however, we are told that: "Mass testing and contact tracing are not, in themselves, solutions, but may allow us to relax some social restrictions faster by targeting more precisely the suppression of transmission".
At this point, what the government is saying is simply not true. This cannot be repeated often enough: without a vaccine, an effective "trace, test, isolate" programme is the only solution we have left to us. It is the only way infection in the community can be brought down to acceptable levels, sufficient for the lockdown to be removed and for normal economic activity to resume.
Unsurprisingly, given its lack of confidence in contact tracing, what the government has on offer is by no means effective. It has put most of its eggs in the "app" basket, in a system that isn't going to work. And while it talks glibly about "using local authority public health services to bring a valuable local dimension to testing, contact tracing and support to people who need to self-isolate", the key word is "dimension".
Of the 18,000 staff allocated to contact tracing, 15,000 are going to be "call-handlers". With one day's training and working to a script, these gig-economy employees are supposed to, "get additional information from people reporting symptoms about their recent contacts and places they have visited, and to give appropriate advice to those contacts".
Needless to say, any isolation is to be voluntary, and the government is still expecting people to self-isolate "alongside their households", thereby maximising their chances of passing the disease on, and keeping the case rates high.
Amongst its many other faults, we then have a system where there seems to be no sense of urgency. Those who believe they have caught Covid-19 are left to report their symptoms, whence they must go through a filter before they are allocated a test – perhaps days later. Then, the contacts are not asked to isolate until "the point of a positive test or after 48 hours – whichever is sooner".
This is going through the motions. It is a travesty of a scheme, and even then it is relegated to the margins. An "enhanced" programme only kicks in when we get to "Level 2" in the government's alert scheme, when the number of cases and transmission is already low (pictured). Apparently, this, with the application of "good, solid British common sense" is what Johnson believes will get us through this crisis.
But far from my being a lone voice, the Guardian is also on the case, bringing prestige to the table in the form of David Hunter, professor of epidemiology and medicine at the University of Oxford. His authored piece is headed: "If we follow Boris Johnson's advice, coronavirus will spread", which couldn't be more to the point if it tried. He too is banging the drum for the basic infection-control practice of "test, trace, isolate", and asks why the past seven weeks haven't been used to prepare for the calibrated end to the lockdown.
The very fact that he asks from the platform of the Guardian however, means that – prestige or no – Hunter will be ignored, just like this blog. But when you have a stupid man at the helm, this is what happens.
At the heart of this crisis we not only have a man who has no idea of what he is talking about. He has no accurate or even adequate mental picture of what he is dealing with. This is a man who, at yesterday's press conference, blathered about having been through the period of lockdown which started on 23 March, at Level 4. In his simple little mind, this meant (in his own words), "a Covid-19 epidemic is in general circulation, and transmission is high or rising exponentially".
Technically, of course, an epidemic is simply a term to describe an incidence of disease above that which is expected for a period under observation. Yet Johnson conveys a vision almost of a living entity, roaming abroad "in general circulation".
Here is Johnson's lack of even the most basic understanding showing through. Like many of the advisors around him, he has failed to grasp that an "epidemic" – and especially this epidemic – is a composite of many outbreaks, some small, and some large.
The way you deal with epidemics is by tackling the outbreaks – one outbreak at a time. And you do that using the basic infection-control practice of: "test, trace, isolate". Until these malign idiots in Whitehall get that through their thick heads, as Hunter warns, coronavirus will continue to spread.


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Essentially there is a lot of commonality and the same base parts, but you cannot just take pieces off your tacticus armour and it becomes Phobos for example.
Some people seem to have got the wrong idea and assumed he was saying it was swappable between designs like taking Lego pieces off, but this is definitely not the case. He was quite clear about that.
Edited by Robbienw, 08 April 2019 - 03:26 PM.


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6 PM Dhamma Talks at Dhamma Sukha Meditation Center
While meditation retreats are in session Bhante Vimalaramsi gives a talk every day at 6pm using the Suttas from the Majjhima Nikaya as discussion topics. Please call to find out what the schedule is. 573-340-1214 Bhante is in residence from May to October.


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Saturday, 6 March 2010
You Are Beautiful
9 comments:
- birkinbagbeauty said...
I admire your honesty and consider your post to be incredibly valuable for many people who feel similar, but are afraid to speak out, because feeling unhappy is not really tolerated in society. I consider modern life to be incredibly difficult and it often makes me feel unhappy, so I recognize your feeling.
- 6 March 2010 at 12:58
- C'est LazziMic said...
Thanks for being so truthful and honest, you speak out for many out there whom are afraid to tell how they feel. I hope you can get out from the gloom as soon. Be happy...Take care.
- 6 March 2010 at 13:25
- Laura L said...
Be happy and take care
hugss and love!
- 6 March 2010 at 14:26
- sesame said...
Thanks for sharing your secret with us. I'm happy to read your blog...and I like to read your posts. I hope you'll continue. :)
- 6 March 2010 at 17:07
- Jamilla Camel said...
Hun, I'm sending you an email!!
- 6 March 2010 at 19:04
- pinky"the-middle-name-is-princess"beanie said...
That's one of my fave songs by Christina Aguilera.
I think the last line was beautifully written, can I "resend" it back to you? Cos tt's wat I wanna say to you too -"Take care and remember, "You are beautiful" always. No matter what."-
- 8 March 2010 at 16:58
- astrorainfall said...
Thanks for making your blog personal. I don't think it's scary, but makes you more "real". Take care and hope that you will keep blogging as long as you find it fun :)
- 17 March 2010 at 20:34
- Rosamond said...
I can definitely relate on some level to what you've written. Thanks for posting your thoughts and being honest. I think it takes alot of courage to open up and I'm trying to find that courage within me. It really is as if I'm relearning how to be a person again. I love your blog! It's really great. Thanks for stopping by mine. I love kittens too and completely agree about how they are more practical. lol and oh so cute!
- 18 March 2010 at 21:22
I had gone though a bout of depression once after my Father passed away. Imagined my shock & disbelieve, self-denial, pain etc. However, thanks to God's grace, I had managed to pulled thru. I am not trying to preach here. However, being a Catholic & going to church helps a lot. Praying to God & Mother Mary helps heal my bitterness & negative feelings. I must say now that I suffer less mood swings & whenever I feel down, I just pray.
- 19 March 2010 at 15:43


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In an Australian first, a RAAF KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport has refuelled a United States Marine Corps (USMC) F/A-18C Hornet with engine trouble over Iraq.
The USMC Hornet was flying a combat mission against Daesh over Northern Iraq when it was forced to shut down one of its two engines due to a mechanical issue.
Short on fuel, the Hornet requested air-to-air refuelling support from the RAAF KC-30A.
A challenging feat at the best of times, air-to-air refuelling with an engine-out Hornet had only ever been conducted in flight testing scenarios and never before from the RAAF aircraft over a war-zone.
The RAAF KC-30A aircraft's captain, Squadron Leader Jamie, said the situation demanded some brainstorming and clever flying.
"The hardest part was that the Hornet couldn't maintain the required altitude or speed that we normally refuel at due to the hostile environment over Iraq," Squadron Leader Jamie said.
"The first option was to accept refuelling at a reduced speed, lower than normally required, and refuelling at that speed had never been done by me or my crew.
"The other option was to do what we call tobogganing, where we refuel while descending to allow the Hornet to gather more speed. This option would have brought us below a safe altitude, so we went with the first option."
Squadron Leader Jamie said the USMC pilot demonstrated incredible skill and the RAAF KC-30A and USMC Hornet were able to conduct the complicated manoeuvre in order to enable the jet to refuel, fly out of Iraq and land safely.
"The Hornet had also dropped bombs from one of its wings, making his aircraft already less stable, which when combined with the loss of an engine, makes refuelling in mid-air a real challenge.
"He did a great job in the end and it was a good feeling to help him out.
"If we hadn't been able to assist, he would certainly have had to make a less than ideal landing in Iraq."
The Australian Air Task Group comprises six F/A-18A Hornet aircraft, a KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport and an E-7A Wedgetail airborne early warning and control aircraft.
As part of Operation OKRA they participate in close air support operations, air to air refuelling and airborne command and control in Iraq and Syria as part of the international coalition formed to disrupt and degrade the Daesh threat.


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- Title:Spring 2018 Undergraduate Dormitory Application
- Appear Date:2017-11-30
Spring 2018 Undergraduate Dormitory Application
· Eligibility: Undergraduate students who are not living in any of the campus dormitory.
o Undergraduate students who are currently living in BOT are eligible, but if your application is successful, you will lose the security deposit for breaking your lease with BOT.
o For those who are currently living in any of the campus dormitory which their accommodation has expired, please contact Student Housing Service Division (Ms. Feng) to reopen the access authority.
· Criteria: Applicants and their parents should have their household registry registered outside of Taipei City, New Taipei City, and Keelung City, for more than 2 years.
o Please inform the Student Housing Service Division (Ms. Feng) if you failed the application with an updated household registry, and update your residence address at the Undergraduate Academic Affairs Division Office.
o Students are required to bring along their household registry documents (both students' and parents') on the check-in day to be verified. Your eligibility will be removed if you failed to do so.
o Students who applied for leave of absence are required to complete the application of reenrollment before checking into the dorm. Otherwise, students will not be allowed to live in the dorm.
· Application dates: Friday, December 22, 2017 10:00 am to Tuesday, January 2, 2018 05:00 pm (Late entry will not be accepted).
· Application website: Please enterhttps://housing.ntu.edu.tw/waiting/index/id/1062 to apply.
o Eligible dormitory applicants with the following conditions may be categorized as a priority.
1. Students with a documented disability.
2. Islanders and aboriginal students.
3. Students with low income family (free for dormitory fees, but security deposit are to be paid).
4. Students from mid-low income family (reduction of 30% dormitory fees).
· Applicants must be upload document of proof to the application website.
· Late or delayed-graduation students (with student ID B02, Department of Veterinary Medicine: B01, Department of Dentistry: B00, Department of Medicine: B99) are eligible, with an order after other applicants. Double major students, transfer students and previous LOA students should attach a transcript or any proving documentation, order will be in front of delayed-graduation students.
· Students can apply for Downtown Dorm or On-campus dorm.
· Results release date: Wednesday, January 3, 2018 02:00 pm (on the Student Housing Service Division website).
· Please do not exchange the numbers assigned with any other person without authorization.
· Students who aren't drawn to any dorm will get a waiting list number randomly. If there is an empty bed available then you will receive the e-mail notice sequentially. You're able to check for the waiting conditions by website (https://housing.ntu.edu.tw/waiting/index/id/1062) to search for the waiting conditions.
· Waiting line numbers will work until 31/5/2018. After the date, the number is invalid.
· Please visit http://ntudorm.prince.com.tw if you are interested in applying for the BOT prince house. Students may apply for both main campus and BOT at the same time, but they should choose either of them if they get both.
· Please contact us if you have queries pertaining to student dormitory application and admission matters. Student Housing Service Division, Ms. Anhua Feng, email firstname.lastname@example.com, phone 02-3366-2266.
NTU Student Housing Service Division
- Attach File:
- Reference Link:
- Poster:*
- Last Update Time:2017-11-30 PM 7:53


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Vodacom shut down the Vodacom World mall in Midrand for renovations on 17 March, and stated that it will remain closed until late 2018.
Shortly after the announcement, iStore revealed that it was holding a closing sale for its outlet in Vodacom World.
This raised the question: will all the stores in Vodacom World reopen after the shutdown is over?
And what will the mall look like at the end of the year, in terms of its stores and floorspace?
Moving away from the traditional model
Vodacom declined to directly answer questions about is plans for stores following the renovations, but did reveal it would be "moving away from the traditional tenant model".
It said the overall philosophy of the Vodacom World revamp is to create exclusive and first-to-market digital experiences with various partnerships.
"We're not letting go of everything, as we intend to build on our reputation of being the best-in-class cellular retailer," Vodacom told MyBroadband.
Its goal with the renovation is to combine retail with experiential opportunities.
Vodacom said it aims to reinvigorate its leadership position of being the first to launch in South Africa, showcasing the latest consumer technologies, and activating amazing product demos.
"We understand that accelerating technological change can be overwhelming," said Vodacom.
"We've heard our customers' calls for more collaborative, empowering conversations and advice, so we're responding by designing experiential journeys with our customers at the centre of all we do to humanise technology and create personalised connections."


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Best advice
Figure out what you enjoy - then do it.
You will ultimately be more succssful if you do what you love.
Unfortunately sometimes you take a path and have to backtrack. I discovered I wasn't cut out for sales, though it took me a couple of attempts. Neither am I a programmer.
Perhaps you should find some people who have those designations and ask them about their day to day jobs - and pipck whichever sounds more appealing. One of the ways is to ask yourself what woudl happen if no opportunities for advancement came up and you had to do the same job for 10 years - would you still enjoy it?


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TD - How to Throw a Jab
Throwing a Jab seems to be a simple thing to execute, but with the tips given by Travis "Hapa" Browne in today's Technique Daily, they will ensure you never miss a strike! Focus on Travis' technique here and see how you can improve your jab in one way or another.
If you liked this video, check out:
Travis Browne's Top Combat Techniques
Also don't forget to head over to our shop page and build your stack today!


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Saints Bay Hotel Guernsey
The Saints Bay is perched on a cliff top surrounded by stunning scenery offering magnificent views. The location makes the hotel a perfect choice for lovers of the great outdoors with peaceful walks on the doorstep along with wonderful cliffs and country lanes to explore either on foot or by bicycle. The hotel offers wonderful food, including a traditional Moroccan restaurant.
Find our fantastic offers to the Saints Bay Hotel Guernsey below.
Free Night 3 for 2
03 Jan-30 Apr 18
01 Oct-20 Dec 18
Free Night 4 for 3
01 May-30 Sep 18
Free half board
03 Jan-20 Dec 18 minimum stay 5 nights and maximum of 7 nights.
- 32 rooms
- Renoir's restaurant overlooking the garden and pool
- Ziz traditional Moroccan
Standard rooms with television, radio and tea and coffee making facilities.
Prices are per person based on two adults sharing a room and include breakfast. Room upgrades and meal supplements are per person per night.
Call a Jersey/Guernsey specialist on for an accurate price for your chosen departure date. Alternatively, you can book your trip here or request a quote at the bottom of this page. We guarantee the best prices to Jersey/Guernsey. If you find cheaper prices elsewhere we will beat them. Submit a quote and we will respond to you within 24 hours.


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This week I attended an excellent event organised by Tenfold, a Leeds-based charity providing a forum for voluntary sector organisations supporting people with learning disabilities.
We've supported Tenfold for the last 3 years. It's a rewarding and occasionally inspirational relationship.
Tenfold events are often chaired and led by service users – a broad spectrum of people with learning disabilities – with an able contribution from carers and support workers.
This event was about the "Being Connected" strand of the Leeds Learning Disability Strategy.
The themes included access to employment and volunteering opportunities; transport; and social and friendship activities "going out and having fun" – these are concerns common to all of us,of course; but the barriers for people with learning disabilities create challenges for them that few of the rest of us face.
We heard a great story from a volunteer at SLATE who now has a paid job at the White Rose Shopping centre here in Leeds. The opportunity of work experience led to permanent part-time paid job.
The centre manager explained how leadership in affording opportunities to a diverse group can be as simple as offering someone a period of work experience; they've ended up with a terrific employee who is as committed as any of his other colleagues, and earns his place on merit, without regard to his disability.
I was also impressed with a new Council initiative: Supported Internships – looking to place people with supportive employers who can expect help with funding, advice and practical support. A good way for businesses to give something back and to provide real opportunity for individuals to grow and develop their CVs. Find out more at http://www.leeds.gov.uk/leedspathways/Pages/Apprenticeships-in-Leeds.aspx.
It's exciting to have the chance to see what else is going on in Leeds. Great to see representatives of police and transport companies present in addition to the expected support groups. Everyone pulling together with some real joined-up ideas to improve life in Leeds for people with learning disabilities.
Paul Scholey – Senior Partner


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About Fostering
Why Choose Fosterplus?
There are many emotional, social and economic benefits to becoming a Foster Carer. Ultimately, fostering makes a positive impact on children and young people's lives. Even if you only have a child for a short period of time, you have the ability to nurture the child, teach lifelong lessons and set positive examples for their future.
The many benefits of becoming a Foster Carer include:– Making a difference to a child's life – Experiencing a sense of achievement from helping others – Enjoying having children in your life – Gaining satisfaction from helping a child learn and develop – Having an opportunity to use your parenting or life skills – Helping your own family learn to share and care for others – Taking on a fresh challenge, whatever your age
Fostering provides a safe, secure and nurturing family environment for children and young adults either short- or long-term, and allows children to keep in contact with their own families if they wish.
Children come into Foster Care for a variety of reasons, from; a family member's short-term illness, abuse, neglect to a parent suffering from depression or drug & alcohol misuse.
Foster children may have led unpredictable, insecure and unsettled lives. At Fosterplus, we ensure our foster carers offer children and young people the security and stability they need to build themselves a stronger, happier, more secure future.
Almost anyone can be a Foster Carer you just need a passion for wanting to change a child's life. There are some mandatory elements to fostering which we have listed below.
Fosterplus requires you to:Be over the age of 21 Have a spare bedroom Be a British citizen, or have permanent leave to remain Be patient, committed, understanding and resilient
You can be:
Single, married or divorced Male or female A parent with young children, with grown up children or no children A single parent In a same sex relationship Employed or unemployed
In most cases, a child will need to have one foster carer at home full-time so that they get the very best possible care. (Although with some placements, there may be the possibility of doing flexible, part-time or home working – you can talk to us about this.)
To help provide for the clothes, food, outings and treats a child needs, and to put carers in a position where they are able to stay at home and devote their full attention to their child, a fostering allowance is provided. At Fosterplus, we offer very competitive allowances to help you do the best for the child and reward you for your hard work. Our rates are very competitive and can vary from placement to placement.
Short-term These are the most common types of placement and can vary in length from a couple of weeks to a couple of years. The children involved may be going through care proceedings or waiting to be adopted. Alternatively, their parents may be temporarily unable to care for them, through illness or other circumstance.
Long-term These placements allow children who can't or don't wish to be adopted, to live in a stable, caring family environment until they become adults. Unlike with adoption, the children remain the legal responsibility of the local authority, and fostering allowances continue to be supplied to the Foster Carer.
Parent and child These may be pre-birth placements, to help the mother prepare for the arrival of her baby. Or they may be a parent who needs some help to learn basic care skills, and how to provide a safe, nurturing environment for their child.
Specialist placements Some children have specialist needs – perhaps because they have a disability, or they have come to the UK seeking asylum and have little or no English skills. At Fosterplus, we will provide you with the full specialist training to ensure you are able to care for these specialist needs.


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Scott Belina, BSEE
Scott has been working in software development for most of his career, starting at Microsoft on the Access and then Excel teams, followed by a stint at GridNetworks before joining the Gift Clarity team. Scott joined Gift Clarity in 2009 as software developer and is now President, working from Seattle.
He is involved in every aspect of Gift Clarity and directs development of its software application. He relishes the opportunity to help nonprofit organizations succeed in their mission by dramatically improving their fundraising and freeing gift officers to maximize their results.
Scott and his family currently live in Seattle, Washington, but he goes back to his roots as an avid Cornhusker fan. In his free time he enjoys golf, basketball, barbecue and anything that lets him spend time with his kids.
Go Back


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Eritrean nationals residing in South Sudan reminded to take necessary precaution until the conflict calms
Asmara, 22 December 2013- Mr. Girmai Gebremariam, Eritrean Ambassador to South Sudan, reminded Eritrean nationals residing in that country to take necessary precaution until the conflict taking place calms.
At a meeting he conducted on 21 December with representatives of Eritrean community members in Juba and its surroundings the Ambassador explained that the conflict has been stretched from Juba and its surroundings to Jonglei and Unity regions, and that properties have been ransacked including that of Eritreans.
He further reminded all citizens to serious follow up the developments in that country, and that the Embassy would provide timely information on the situation.


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The moon is laughing to the beat,
Of our shoes pounding on the street,
As we flee the scene,
Of our mockery,
And how does it feel to,
Get the shit kicked out of you?
Twenty years from now,
Remember my face in that
Scar above your brow,
When you parents pick you
Up at the hospital grounds,
Your wounds in gowns, and
Tongue is sound, asleep,
But you won't speak,
Of all your bruised skin,
Or of this travesty again,
And how is that broken nose?
Your blood spattered clothes?
The shoe prints on your neck?
Or would you rather?
All my friends gather?
And we can take this to streets again,
For you,
And all you friends,
We'll bring the bats,
We'll bring the violence.
- 专辑:Flee the Scene
- 歌手:Southcott
- 歌曲:We'll Take This Outside 1:17


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LEGO Movie 2 Video Game FREE DLC Coming April!
Many of you deep into playing the LEGO Movie 2 Video Game might have noticed a group of worlds below the Systar System that are locked and can't be played. These three worlds are free DLC adventures called the "Galactic Adventures" coming this April for players to continue their adventures!


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Industry Directory
Director of Photography
With decades of production experience between them, the Airscope Creative team provides world class drone filming & photography services. For Film Production we offer up to 8K RAW & ProRes video recording, with Full HD video downlink & a 19″ director's monitor with onboard recording and instant playback. Our photographic drone solutions carry Canon, Nikon, Sony & PhaseOne cameras capable of shooting up to 100 Megapixels. We also offer 8K 360 stereo VR filming. Our customizable drones can be used for events and product activations. We've attached LED lights, fireworks & even flying cartoon characters to our drones.
Maximillian Papadopoulos
Job Title:
Abu Dhabi UAE
Paulo Rosa
Job Title:
Director - Cameraman - Steadicam Op. - DOP
PoBox 77804 Abu Dhabi
I'm a freelancer and I have skills like Director / Cameraman / DOP / Steadicam Operator, with my own steadicam equipment.
I have 20 years experience as Director, 25 as Steadicam Operator and over 30 as Cameraman/dop.
I have experience in : feature films, drama , commercials (tvc), documentaries, corporate, video music, tv series, tv events, reality show's, entertainment, live broadcast, eng, efp, sports, news, aerial shooting, underwater shooting (with padi), inline skating shooting, octocopter shooting (drone)…
I also have aerial filming and aerial branding/advertising services.
Videographic Services, Aerial filming (Drone) and aerial branding/advertising services (blimp/zeppelin), Steadicam shooting, DOP, Director.
Steve Norris
Job Title:
Director, Film & TV Services
P.O. Box 2454 Abu Dhabi UAE
twofour54 Film & TV Services is the leading production facility and production services company in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Voted Middle East and North Africa (MENA)'s 'Studio of the Year' in 2010 and 'Post-Production House of the Year' in 2011 & 2012, twofour54 Film & TV Services has the creative talent, production and post-production expertise to take your next project from concept to delivery.
Our key services include:
twofour54 Film & TV Services offers the Middle East and North Africa's finest HD studios and skilled technical, operational and creative staff from our highly qualified in-house team and freelancer pool. With 11 studios ranging from x 280m2 to 650m2 – perfect for everything from light entertainment to large scale drama productions. Our studios can be hired as "space only" or fully equipped with the latest state-of-the-art equipment.
Our services cover all elements of location filming including pre-production assistance, production budgeting and scheduling, crewing, transportation and catering. You will also have access to lighting, sound recording and grip equipment here at twofour54 Film & TV Services. Whether it be a TV commercial or music video to the latest upcoming Hollywood blockbuster, we can handle all of your production services requirements.
The UAE's leading high-end post-production house with 10 post-production edit suites; 2 for audio post-production; 3 for graphics and the region's only Baselight colour grading suite for film work up to 4k.
- 5 edit suites with FCP
- 5 edit suites with AVID Media Composer
- 1 AVID DS high-end finishing suite
- 2 ProTools HD 5.1 audio suites
- 2 Smoke high-end finishing and composting suites with 5TB dedicated storage
- 6 BOXX graphics workstations with 2D and 3D graphics software
- The region's only high end Base light colour grading facility
twofour54 is the home to a unique one-stop-shop for broadcasting and connectivity from Abu Dhabi.
As of February 2015, Ericsson will be managing and operating the 20 channel playout centre for a client's covering entertainment, music, news, sports, and general content.
twofour54 Film & TV Services can arrange additional services based upon your specific requirements. Our team of award winning talent have the latest skills in all areas of post production to ensure the best possible results for your project.
- Director of Photography
- Editing
- Editor
- Health and Safety
- Production Co-ordinator
- Production Company - Commercial
- Production Company - Corporate
- Production Company - Digital Media
- Production Company - Documentary
- Production Company - Feature
- Production Company - General
- Production Company - Post Production
- Production Company - Shorts
- Production Manager
- Production Supervisor
- Project Manager
- Studios


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Signed in as:
Who am I?
Founder and owner of Naturals By Nezzy Made With Love
What is my purpose?
To produce an extraordinary product "Made With Love" by these hands
What is my goal?
To let folks know we can take care of our skin and hair with products made from natural ingredients
Copyright © 2018 Naturals By Nezzy Made With Love - All Rights Reserved.
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We have now started to reopen our practice for consultations, medical examinations, chronic disease management and investigations. This service is open for those that are well and have not been in contact with anyone with the infection in the preceding 14 days including any of their household members. When booking the appointment, the administrative team will go through a checklist of questions and we will take your temperature on the morning of attendance.
We will do all we can to maintain social distancing in the waiting areas and high levels of cleanliness at the practice including the wearing of masks and gloves, spreading out appointment times and a strict handwashing policy within the practice.
Payments will be taken remotely by the administrative staff either via telephone or email.
We continue to offer remote consultations via video or telephone where face to face consultations are unnecessary.
In addition we are now offering COVID-19 antigen home testing for individuals who feel they may be suffering with the infection.
For those individuals that have had symptoms a minimum of 14 days previously we are offering CE approved COVID-19 Abbott approved antibody testing at the practice or as part of a consultation.
Nick and Sophia


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First Same-Sex Couple To Marry In Mexico's Yucatan State
A recent ruling by Mexico's Supreme Court said that state laws restricting marriage to a man and a woman violated the country's constitution, but Mexico's complicated legal system means couples still have to sue to marry.
Ricardo Arturo Góngora and Javier Alberto Carrillo Esquivel will marry on Thursday in Mexico's southeastern Yucatan State thanks to a judge's ruling that found that the language restricting marriage to a "man and a woman" in the state constitution violated the federal constitution's anti-discrimination provision.
In its July decision, the court applied the same logic that Mexico's Supreme Court used in December to rule that three same-sex couples in the state of Oaxaca had the right to marry.
Despite these gains, and the Supreme Court's strong defense of marriage equality, complexity in the country's legal system means full marriage equality is a ways off. This week, a lesbian couple in the state of Baja California had their marriage application denied by a registrar. Several cases must be brought from each of Mexico's states before court precedent overturns the laws on the books for everybody.
Mexico's Supreme Court first ruled in 2010 that same-sex marriages performed under a Mexico City ordinance must be recognized throughout the country. It went a step further in 2012, saying that state bans on same-sex marriage violated the constitution.
Supreme Court Minister Arturo Zaldívar Lelo de Larrea wrote in his opinion in the Oaxaca case in December that it was impermissible to deny same-sex couples the right to marry because: "Their exclusion from the institution of marriage perpetuates the notion that same-sex couples are less worthy of recognition than heterosexuals, offending their dignity as people."
In addition to Ricardo and Javier's victory in Yucatan and the three couples from Oaxaca who won the Supreme Court ruling, four couples have successfully sued to marry in the state of Mexico as well as one in Colima, according to Alex Alí Méndez Díaz, the attorney who won the December Supreme Court case and is now working with couples throughout the country. Díaz said cases are pending in at least three other states.
J. Lester Feder is a BuzzFeed contributor and 2013 Alicia Patterson journalism fellow.