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MARDAN, Pakistan (AP) -- Pakistan's army vowed Friday to eliminate militants from a northwestern valley but warned that its under-equipped troops face thousands of Taliban extremists who have seized towns, planted bombs made from pressure cookers, and dragooned children to be suicide bombers.
As air force jets roared overhead and gunbattles raged, terrified civilians from the Swat Valley and neighboring districts accelerated their exodus, with U.N. and Pakistani officials predicting 1 million refugees will soon burden the turbulent Afghan border region.
The army formally announced Friday that an offensive was under way. It has drawn praise from U.S. officials alarmed at the Taliban's recent advance to within 60 miles of the capital, Islamabad.
Washington describes the militants as an existential threat to nuclear-armed Pakistan itself, as well as to U.S. chances of destroying al-Qaida or of winning the war against their insurgent allies in neighboring Afghanistan.
"The army is now engaged in a full-scale operation to eliminate the militants, miscreants and anti-state elements from Swat," said Maj. Gen. Athar Abbas, chief army spokesman. "They are on the run and trying to block the exodus of civilians from the area."
There are doubts about the ability and resolve of the army and the government to sustain the kind of grinding counterinsurgency warfare needed to defeat extremists whose rhetoric resonates widely in a Muslim nation deeply skeptical of U.S. goals in the region.
Abbas sought to counter portrayals of the military as ill-trained, saying that they had learned a lot in eight years of fighting along the border. But he said they need helicopters, surveillance drones and night-vision equipment, which the U.S. is scrambling to provide.
Pakistan's army is fighting to wrest Swat and two neighboring districts from militants who dominate the adjoining tribal belt along the Afghan frontier, where U.S. officials say al-Qaida chief Osama bin Laden is likely holed up.
The army announced its offensive after Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said the government would wipe out groups trying to "take Pakistan hostage at gunpoint." Battles and bombing runs by helicopters and jets have been going on all week.
Abbas said Friday that more than 140 militants and two soldiers had been killed in Swat in the last 24 hours - roughly doubling the number of casualties reported so far.
The latest figure included 100 militants killed in bombardments of remote training camps and arms dumps. Abbas didn't explain how the body count was done. Fighting in neighboring Buner and Lower Dir killed another 31 militants and three soldiers, he said.
Officials say they are unable to confirm accounts from fleeing civilians of innocents killed and wounded by indiscriminate gunfire and shelling. Abbas said troops were advancing slowly to try to minimize such collateral damage.
But the stream of civilians seeking safety appeared to have intensified, leaving Pakistan facing a humanitarian emergency.
The mayor of Mardan, the main district to the south of the fighting, said an estimated 250,000 people had fled in recent days. Of those, 4,500 were staying in camps, while the rest were with relatives or rented accommodation, he said.
On Friday, the U.N. refugee agency said provincial officials had told them 500,000 had fled, were on the move, or were trying to flee. About a half-million have already been made homeless elsewhere in the border region since August 2008, when the army launched its last major anti-Taliban operation in the Bajur border region.
Tens of thousands of people are trapped in Mingora, Swat's main town. Some have accused the Taliban of not allowing them to leave, perhaps because they want to use them as human shields. Others came under attack even as they fled.
Siraj Muhammad, a 19-year-old mechanic among the exhausted multitude who made it to Mardan on Friday, said a shell exploded near people trying to walk to safety, killing two and wounding him, his mother and two siblings.
After struggling on for several miles, they flagged down a truck, joining scores of others escaping over a mountain pass, he said.
"We had a home, we had a family, we had happiness, we had prosperity, and all we have now is tears, fear and a dark future," he said, lying on a plastic sheet in a refugee camp.
Taliban militants seized much of the area under a peace deal, even after the government agreed to their main demand to impose Islamic law in the region.
U.S. officials likened the deal to a surrender. Pakistani leaders said the agreement's collapse had opened the eyes of ordinary citizens to the extremist threat.
Abbas wouldn't say how long it would take to clear the valley of 4,000 or 5,000 militants, including small numbers of foreigners - Tajiks and Uzbeks - as well as Punjabi extremists and tough Waziri fighters.
He said the military was reinforcing the 12,000 to 15,000 troops already in Swat. He gave no details, but he predicted a tough fight against militants who exploited the peace deal to regroup, descend from mountain hideouts and seize most of Swat's towns.
The troops faced guerrilla tactics, including remotely detonated homemade bombs made of explosives, steel pellets and nails packed into pressure cookers, Abbas said. Mines have been laid in Mingora.
Insurgents had forcibly recruited young boys from poor families in Swat, and sent some of them to train as suicide bombers in the South Waziristan tribal region, he said.
"We have seen with the capture of Mingora that the initiative has been taken by the militants," said Nasim Zehra, a fellow of Harvard University's Asia Center and a prominent Pakistani security analyst. "It's obviously an operation that is going to take weeks, or more."
She said strong support from Pakistan's fractious politicians and divided civil society will be vital to the army, whose previous operations have largely failed.


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China's biggest bank will deploy Linux on its 20,000 branches' servers.
The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) plans to gradually roll out the Turbolinux 7 DataServer operating system for all of its front-end banking operations over a three-year period.
What makes this deal remarkable is its size. With 5.3 trillion renminbi (£335 billion) in total assets, ICBC is China's biggest bank, serving 100 million individuals and 8.1 million corporate accounts at offices right across China. When the project is completed, many of ICBC's 390,000 employees will be accessing applications hosted on Linux servers on a daily basis.
ICBC chose Linux in part because its existing front-end applications, which were developed in-house, run on the SCO Group's SCO Unix, and migrating them to Linux was determined to be an easier upgrade path than switching the applications to Windows, according to Claude Zhou, general manager of Turbolinux China.
ICBC has been granted a site licence and front-end applications based on Turbolinux 7 DataServer will be rolled out on a "step-by-step" basis to all of ICBC's 20,000 offices, Zhou said. ICBC employees will access the applications from terminals. "This is the biggest Linux implementation in China," according to Zhou.
ICBC is in the process of choosing a systems integrator to handle the project. Bank executives are expected to announce their decision soon, Zhou said. Officials from ICBC were not available this week to discuss the project.
ICBC is not the only one of China's four main banks to have decided to deploy Linux. For example, Bank of China has deployed Linux distributions from Turbolinux and Red Hat in regional projects.
More banks are expected to follow ICBC's lead with large-scale Linux deployments. Agricultural Bank of China, another of the country's top four banks, is expected to announce within the next month a tender for a Linux site licence that is similar to the ICBC project, he said.
The fourth major bank, China Construction Bank, is also expected to announce sometime this year plans to move its IT systems to Linux, according to China's state-run media.
The shift to Linux is driven by the banks' need for better software performance and better vendor support, said Nielse Jiang, an analyst at IDC in Beijing. Currently, most of these banks are running their applications on SCO Unix and they are looking to upgrade their systems. "In China, SCO Unix offers very weak support for customers; they have so few employees," he said.
The banks have also opted for Linux because of lower operating costs and the relative ease of porting their applications from Unix to Linux, Jiang said. They also pay close attention to what the other banks are doing. "If one successful case has been implemented, the other banks will consider doing that," he said.

subset: commoncrawl


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Dominique Calvin finished sixth in the 100 meters (12.06) and eighth in the 200 meters (24.69) at the Big West Outdoor Championships ... also qualified in the long jump where she placed 12th with a mark of 17-8.75 (5.40) ... matched her lifetime-best by running 11.84 in the 100 meter prelims at the conference championships ... won the long jump with a season-best 19-4.25 (5.90) at the Tiny Lister Classic ... placed 15th in the 60 meters (7.99) and 13th in the long jump (18-4.50) at the MPSF Indoor Championships ... jumped an Northridge indoor season-best 19-4.25 (5.90) at the New Balance Invitational to finish fifth.
Calvin qualified for the NCAA West Regionals as part of the Matadors' 4x100 relay team that placed third with a time of 45.12 ... ran the third leg of the Big West Champion 4x100 relay team that ran a Northridge season-best time of 44.96 which is fourth-best in school history ... also finished fourth in the long jump (19-6) and eighth in the 200 meters (24.93) at the Big West Outdoor Championships ... jumped a career-best 19-6.75 to win the long jump at the Tiny Lister Classic at Cal State L.A. ... ran a personal-best 11.84 in the 100 meters at the Mt. SAC Relays ... qualified for the WAC Indoor Championships in the 60 meters but finished 10th in the prelims in a personal-best time of 7.78 and did not reach the event final ... also placed fourth in the long jump final after shattering her career-best with a leap of 19-5.50 which ranks fifth on the Matador career indoor list.
Had a solid freshman season after finishing third in the long jump (19-5-50) at the Big West Outdoor Championships ... her mark ranks seventh on the Matador Freshman record list ... also qualified for the 200 meters finishing sixth in the prelims in a season-best time of 25.22 ... also posted a season-best 34-2 in the triple jump at the Trojan Invitational ... posted indoor season-bests of 18-3.25 in the long jump, 36-10.25 in the triple jump and 7.90 in the 60 meters all at the Albuquerque Invitational.
Was a three-sport standout at Littlerock High School in Littlerock, Calif. ... as a sprinter/jumper was the Golden League champion in the 100 meters and long jump ... was also an All-Golden League basketball player (2003-04) and was a part of the Lobo's Golden League champion volleyball team (2003-04) ... graduated in 2005 with a 3.7 grade point average.
Born January 28, 1987 in Lancaster, Calif. ... parents are Sherry Sexton and Donald Calvin ... has four sisters, Jameeka , Mieska, Darshay and Talitha and one brother Najee ... Jameeka ran track for UC Riverside and her cousin Natoya Woods was an All-Big West jumper at Northridge ... also competed for the AAU Heat and went to the Junior Olympics in New Orleans ... favorites include the Los Angeles Lakers, Kobe Bryant, Destiny's Child and P Diddy ... major is Business Administration.


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Dusk to Dawn Light Bulbs
Dusk to Dawn Light Bulbs for Added Home Security
Installing the right security light is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to improve the security of your home. However it is not just any lighting system that will help to keep burglars away. In fact many burglars will carry out crimes in broad day light. The fact is that if you choose the right lighting system you will be able to improve the visibility of the area you want secured and this will in one way or another increase the level of security. Keep in mind that the harder it is for a burglar to break into your home, office, warehouse or any other insured place, the lower the premiums you will have to pay.
Having a lighting system outside the place that you want to improve security is one important step you can take. Using efficient dusk to dawn light bulbs as the main source of security light to shield your property is one recommended step. Consider installing top rated dusk to dawn lights rather than solely relying on motion sensor lights which will only switch on when motion is detected in the field of infrared (IR) rays. Having effective dusk to dawn security lights allows you to enjoy the easiest way to add extra light to that landscape or just enough security light for your yard at night. Featured below is the best dusk to dawn light bulbs list that you may consider when choosing the best security lights to improve your security.
Cooper Lighting GT 100 MH 100W Metal Halide Industrial Grade Security Dusk to Dawn Area Light
The Cooper Lighting GT 100MH 100W is a highly rated bulb for areas that require highly concentrated light. The bulb features a heavy duty die cast metal that houses a high impact lens to offer you maximum light while maintaining its durability. The high impact lens is structured to maximize the light produced by the bulb enabling it to cover a large light area of approximately 5655 square feet when mounted at a 15' height. The bulb comes with a replaceable twist lock and a unique photo control that has an optimal cover to enhance your flexibility when controlling the light. With a strong metal guard attached, the high impact lenses are well protected while the bulb is kept safe from damage. If you are looking for an energy efficient bulb which offers enough light to cover a large area, then this is the bulb to consider. The fixture is operated on a standard of 120V 60 Hz household current to allow you to save more on your energy bills. To make the installation process easy, the security light boasts an EZ- mount bracket and a quick wiring system.
Cooper Lighting AL 70MH 70W Metal Halide Safety and Security Dusk to Dawn Area Light
Having a medium light concentration may be an option you have to consider for a secluded security area. That's why the Cooper Lighting AL 70 is made for you. This is highly rated and comes with an affordable price at Amazon. It features a corrosion resistant die cast aluminium housing that allows it to withstand harsh weather conditions without rusting. To make it easy for you to control the light, it has a special twist lock with a replaceable photo control. The metal halide medium base offers you high protection for the lens while still ensuring that the bulb is not damaged. The top mounting of the box allows you to easily use pre-drilled holes for quick and easy installation. In case you do not need as much lighting for your targeted area, then this should be considered. The bulb comes at a very affordable price and it can be easily ordered at Amazon. If you are looking for the perfect security light to improve security by producing a medium to large light concentration then this Cooper Lighting light is one to consider.
Designers Edge L-1770-70W-HPS-BR Ecozone 70-Watt High Pressure Sodium Dusk to Dawn Security Light
You may want an all round light system that can produce the right amount of light at any place. If so then this is the light to consider. It is highly rated and comes at a great price from Amazon. Whether you are looking for a lighting system to make your home, warehouse or office a safer place, you should not miss the Designers Edge L-1770-70W. The light features a durable energy efficient bulb and an industrial grade vandal resistant polycarbonate cover with a unique metal black plate to offer maximum protection to your bulb to make it last for a long period of time. With an automatic dusk till dawn sensor and a replaceable photocell, you do not have to turn your light on at dusk and off at dawn as the system will have done it for you at just the right time. It is now easy to improve the level of security while at the same time saving on energy with this dusk to dawn lighting system.
Philips 405852 Energy Saver Compact Fluorescent Dusk to Dawn 14 Watt Twister Light Bulb
Sometimes having low light levels in certain places may be important as it allows you to save on energy consumption while still maintaining a given level of security. With the Philips 14 watt energy saver bulb you can reap these benefits. Apart from the good recommendations, the bulb is sold at a very affordable price and you can easily order it at Amazon. It features a special Philips energy saver compact fluorescent of just 14 watts. The dusk to dawn automatic light makes the bulb ideal for places enclosed by a post light fixture. If you are looking for a soft white light similar to that of an incandescent light, this is the bulb to consider. The rotating base with an in built photo sensor allows the lighting system to automatically turn on the lights at dusk and switch them off at dawn. The Philips 405852 energy saver bulb is specially built to replace your current A19 60 watt incandescent as it will last for at least seven years.
Designers Edge L-1772-26W-BR Ecozone 26-Watt Fluorescent Dusk to Dawn Security Light
A 26 watt dusk to dawn light will enable you to achieve that low light concentration while still maintaining good security levels. This light is highly rated on Amazon and it comes at a very affordable price. It features a special decorative acrylic prismatic lens to produce maximum light to cover a large area. The slim round design makes it a good match for many modern designs. With a complete Designers Edge L-1772 26 watt dusk till dawn lighting system, you can save on energy while still enjoying maximum security.
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Got a foam roller sat in the corner of your lounge, but not sure what to do with it?
Heard foam rolling is great, but don't know where to start?
Want to have an effective, efficient way of improving your sporting performance, warming up for exercise or easing aches, pains and areas of tension?
Should you foam roll your ITB?
When is the best time to foam roll?
To answer all these questions, come and join us for a foam rolling workshop, with our Sports Therapist, Tom.
This 1 hour session will help you:
- Understand the benefits of foam rolling
- Learn the most effective and efficient way to foam roll
- Learn some key foam rolling exercises to do yourself
All equipment is provided. It is a practical workshop, so wear something comfortable that you can move around easily in.
Here's what attendees of our previous foam rolling workshops have said:
Excellent event, really informative and hugely beneficial (Eastleigh Running Club)
Excellent venue with clean presentation (Eastleigh Running Club)
Such a useful workshop. Excellent trainer (CFCRG)
Tried foam rollers for the first time! Great introduction (CFCRG)
Really helpful to understand the biology alongside the exercises (non-club runner)
Really good event, especially that it's free! Really beneficial (non-club runner)
Really useful! (Eastleigh Running Club)
Excellent and very beneficial (non-club runner)


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MacMonkies has released new prizes celebrating the first anniversary of the MacMonkies experience today. Speed Download from YazSoft and other prizes are available. According to MacMonkies:
MacMonkies adds new prizes to their Birthday Giveaway!
Now you can win one of 3 copies of Speed Download from YazSoft, as well as other great prizes from Lemke Software, Marc Moini, Power On, piDog, Tiger Technologies, and many more! Turn on the fun at MacMonkies.com!
You can find more information about the new prizes at the MacMonkies Web site.


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Personal computing discussed
Moderators: Captain Ned, emkubed
derFunkenstein wrote:I would have just worked from home if that was my other choice.
Flying Fox wrote:Vrock wrote:Doesn't matter whether it is the South. Up here in the so-called Great White North the first snowfall is going to be chaos.mattsteg wrote:He probably lives in the South. It's like that everytime we get snow in VA. It's frustrating. Everytime it snows here everyone acts like it's the first damn time they've ever seen the stuff. Traffic backs up, cars and trucks slide into ditches, and there's general pandamonium. It's ridiculous.A 2 hour delay for 3" of snow? Why so long of a delay? Long trip?
Ok, may be Toronto cannot be counted as the GWN then? Manitobans and Albertans deal with this better?
Captain Ned wrote:This was my afternoon project. There's a Subaru Forester somewhere in that pile. The one piece you can see is the passenger side mirror, so not only is there a lot of snow on the car, there's even more on the ground.
anotherengineer wrote:Lucky you. We had rain here the other week and now -25C, like a skating rink everywhere and crappy for snowmobiling.
liquidsquid wrote:Sure beats brown and cold though. Very pretty out!
anotherengineer wrote:
No Toronto can not be counted as the Great White North............sorry. And probably a good majority of the people currently in Toronto now, are probably from places where snow does not exist.
liquidsquid wrote:Crotchfester... never hear it called that before
Captain Ned wrote:ERV. Not exactly a selling point for a house built circa 1875.
Chuckaluphagus wrote:We (= Boston area) only got about 8 inches of very heavy, wet snow, so got off easy this time. Spent a good part of Tuesday afternoon shoveling the driveway and the walk, and a kind neighbor with a large snowblower was going up and down the street to help everyone with the plow piles.
Then it rained a bit Tuesday night, and it's been cold ever since, and now the snow is hard a concrete - you could easily break a window if you threw some of this stuff around. I'm very glad I got everything done, because I'd need a pickaxe if I had to clear anything out right now.
Captain Ned wrote:LS will love this one. Spotted on an e-signboard in the Crotchfester area. BTW, they still stink on the inside.


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|Photo © Wayne Thomas-All Rights Reserved
And I'm glad to see that other photographers have preceded me, and have followed suit. One of these photographers is Wayne Thomas, whose Myanmar, A Nation in Transition has just been published a few days ago. I hope this post will propel his multimedia essay's readership/viewership even further.
It's a great combination of still photographs, short video clips (about 5 of them that loop continuously) and a couple of panoramic photographs of Yangon's Shwedagon Pagoda and of the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda's Golden Rock.
The most arresting photograph in the essay is Wayne's photograph of a woman whose face is completely covered in thick thanakha paste, and some sort of brown-black "third eye" in the center of her forehead. I've never seen anyone with that much thanakha paste before.
He's right.


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I need to find someone to talk to. Being so busy with school and work has left me with less then one good friend that I trust enough to actually vent too. I think its starting to affect me in a negative way, just not being able to vent about things that are bugging me. I'm going to find someone to talk to, to vent to, to trust.
I miss this book, and how it made me feel. I miss reading all together. Reading a textbook just isnt cutting it. I miss mall trips, and Barnes and Noble, and the familiar infared numbers flashing 3:00 am.
But everything that I'm becoming, and everything thats starting in the next little while is so exciting! An apartment, living on my own, huge responisibility and being alone... I do the best when I'm alone, but it seems awfully lonely.
I think I'm just a little down. Its been kind of a tough week.
Change in all things is sweet. Aristotle


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Jerzees, Gildan & More T Shirts, Etc.
This catalog is from our primary supplier and features Jerzees and Gildan apparel that we use for our t-shirt printing service for customers. There's also a lot of other casual wear to view in this fine catalog.
If you don't find what you are looking for just let us know…we deal with dozens of suppliers and mills.
Company Casuals for Apparel Custom Printing
If you are looking for higher-end apparel such as polos and jackets, this catalog has an excellent selection. As with everything presented on the Genuine Varsity website, we can custom print or embroider the apparel you select to make it personal or corporate according to your needs. Our Contact Us page allows you to get an estimate for the work you'd like done. We'd love to work with you so please tell us what you need printed or embroidered!
If you are in the Brunswick, Ohio area feel free to stop in for a copy of our printed catalog, containing thousands of apparel items that can be printed or embroidered with your logo.


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* Hitlist
- The List
- 7 December 2006
The best rock, pop, folk and jazz
Snow Patrol and Elbow Who would have thought that they'd end up packing out this joint? Not them, that's for sure. Couldn't have happened to nicer fellas. SECC, Glasgow, Fri 15 Dec. (Rock & Pop)
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band Alex may be long gone but the legend of Vambo lives on with the original members giving the peerless back catalogue a rumble up for the festive season. ABC, Glasgow, Thu 14 Dec. (Rock & Pop) Read review
Boogaloo Bothy Achiteq are the live attraction at this excellent night of bubbling electronic peculiarity. Henry's Cellar Bar, Glasgow, Fri 15 Dec. (Rock & Pop)
Gimme Shelter James Yorkston, Francis McDonald and Down the Tiny Steps head a line-up of quality acoustic turns for this charity show. Mono, Glasgow, Sun 17 Dec. (Rock & Pop)
The Roots and Plan B Proper hip hop. Carling Academy, Glasgow, Sun 17 Dec (Rock & Pop) Read feature
We Are The Physics Frantic, scratchy posy-punkisms have been done to death we know but this mob are excellent, we assure you. King Tut's, Glasgow, Tue 19 Dec. (Rock & Pop) Read preview
Joe Strummer Tribute The annual celebration of the life and work of the Clash man. King Tut's, Glasgow, Fri 22 Dec.
Uncle John & Whitelock This week we say farewell to another bunch as UJ&W down tools and pack their bags for sunnier climes. Their scattergun blues will be missed. King Tut's, Glasgow, Sat 23 Dec.
Desalvo, Kong, Kobai, The Phantom Band and Frightened Rabbit A novel way of ringing in the New Year with everything from blugeoning metal to folksy gentility on two stages. Barfly, Glasgow, Sun 31 Dec.
Sons & Daughters, Union of Knives and 1990s After a year of hibernation making their new album, S&D bring the bells in with a cracking line-up. ABC, Glasgow, Sun 31 Dec. (Rock & Pop)


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No. 1
Carey has said that her early interest in acting was rooted in her school play experiences. She was a student head of drama at Woldingham School in addition to being involved in plays. She continues to love theatre at this stage in her career, and has noted that she would love to be in at least one play every year.
No. 2
When she decided to go into acting, her parents initially tried to discourage her from doing so and attempted to encourage her to choose to go to university instead. Due to a lack of familiarity with the profession, they were scared about what it could mean for their daughter.
No. 3
Carey's first film role was the character of Kitty Bennet in Pride and Prejudice, co-starring with Keira Knightley and Judi Dench
No. 4
She worked with Keira Knightley again when playing the lead character of Kathy in the film Never Let Me Go (which explored the personal struggles and relationships of a group of young people who were cloned with the express purpose of providing donor tissue for wealthy people with health problems).
No. 5
In 2012, Carey married Marcus Mumford, an English musician who is famous for his role as lead singer in the critically acclaimed band Mumford & Sons. The ceremony took place in a Somerset farmhouse, and famous attendees included Colin Firth and Sienna Miller.
No. 6
She was a guest star in a highly popular episode of Doctor Who (entitled 'Blink'), in which she played the character of Sally Sparrow, who helps to investigate a mysterious case involving malevolent angel statues. Carey was voted as the best guest actress in Doctor Who Magazine on the strength of this portrayal, and received an award for her performance at the Constellation Awards in 2008.
No. 7
She was nominated for an Oscar after her performance in An Education, and she won a BAFTA for the same role.
No. 8
Carey claims that she is rarely recognized in public, though she is noticed more often for brief periods of time after starring in a major film (such as The Great Gatsby).
No. 9
She has an excellent singing voice, which can be enjoyed on the Belle & Sebastian song 'Write About Love' (which came out in 2010).
No. 10
Although she hoped for a cameo in Glee, it is said that the show's creators did not think that Carey was appropriately famous to be given a guest starring role (in spite of the fact that she was nominated for an Oscar).


text: Best Bits of the MTV VMAs 31/08/2015 David Farrier (Reuters) MTV may be barely a music channel anymore, but they still hold the annual Video Music Awards. This year was bigger and brighter than usual, so we thought we'd sum it all up. Watch the video for the full Newsworthy report.


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SEO tutorial provides basic and advanced ideas of SEO (Search Engine Optimization). Our SEO tutorial is designed for beginners and professionals.
SEO is a process of affecting the visibility of a website or a web page in a google and all search engine's unpaid results. SEO is provide natural and organic results. And your web site show high rank and traffic on search engine.
Our SEO tutorial include all points of This SEO tutorial covers all the topics of SEO such as-Introduction Email Marketing Email Design
Before learning SEO, you must have the fundamental information of internet and search engine.
Our SEO tutorial is designed to help beginners and professionals.
We assure that you will not find any mistake in this SEO tutorial. But if there is any mistake, please post the problem by mail.


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Emir Ayouni / Tags / hamster wheel
2 Shots
Tracklab Logo Final (Alternative Color) Last one of these, I promise :) Client wanted to go with the 2nd option eventually after seeing how well it got received here on Dribbble. (Imagin...
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Emir Ayouni Pro
Tracklab Logo Exploration 2 Ok, reworked this quite a lot. The client asked me if I could convey the message through the logo that the studio will also work with Film and Pho...
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related issues
Put your cybersecurity expertise on the map!
- forums
- knowledge society
- date
- 10-01-2018
Are you a center of excellence in the field of cybersecurity?
The Commission is calling on all cybersecurity competence centres across the EU, whether public or private (e.g. university department, research centre, etc), to register their organisations and share information about their work and expertise.
The results of this mapping will be translated into a "Cybersecurity Atlas" (an index of existing EU cybersecurity Centres) that will be made publicly available.
This Atlas aims at becoming a valuable tool and a reference for the cybersecurity community to look for potential partners and pool resources.
Register before 15 February 2018 at : https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/cybersecurity-survey


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This weekend felt like it went by so fast. I spent a lot of time in the kitchen... I like, when possible, cook a few meals ahead, so during the week when we come home from work I can have dinner on the table in no time. I got this new cooking book. It has amazing recipes it was hard to decide which one to make first. I decided on the banana bread. I had some very ripe bananas, which make the best banana bread, and I wanted to used them before they went bad. It is so good. It was hard waiting for it to cool down so I could have a slice.
Super Banana Bread
Slightly adapted from Williams-Sonoma Home Baked Comfort
2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
3 ripe bananas, smashed with a fork
2 eggs
1 cup of firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup Greek style yogurt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
4 teaspoons butter, melted
1. Preheat oven to 350 F (180 C). Line a 9X5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper or butter generously.
2. In a bowl sift together the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg) and set aside. In a large bowl whisk together the bananas, eggs, sugar, yogurt, butter and vanilla. Add the mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
3. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan.


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Replacement Window Installers in North Carolina
Window ReplacementContractors in North Carolina
Window Buying Guide for North Carolina
North Carolina property owners seeking to purchase new windows for their home or business should first become familiar with the project requirements. Important considerations are necessary before making a new window purchase for a newly constructed home or when replacing existing windows. Careful planning and preparation is required to ensure the project runs smoothly and that you purchase the right type of window for your property. Things to consider include: adhering to local building codes, hiring a reputable window contractor, and selecting appropriate window glass and frames. In addition, this windows buying guide will point you towards programs available in your area that could reduce the out-of-pocket expenses associated with window installation.
North Carolina Window Styles and Frame Materials
Purchasing new windows in North Carolina means you will face some tough decisions regarding material types and window styles. In this section, you will find a breakdown of the different frame materials and common window styles to help get you started on your project.
Window Styles
- Single Hung windowsincorporate a fixed sash, usually the upper, and an operable lower sash to provide room ventilation.
- A Double Hung Windowis a window type where both the upper and lower sashes are operable.
- Bay windowsare fabricated by mulling two side windows together with a larger, center section at between 30 and 45 degrees extending outward from the building. Often, homeowners utilize the extra interior space created by the Bay window as a bench top seating area with underneath storage.
- Box windowsare similar to Bay windows with the difference being they take on a more rounded shape because more window sections are mulled together at lesser degrees.
- Double slider windowsutilize two window sashes that slide horizontally. This type of window is also available with a single slide option where only one-sash slides and a 3-lite version with the outer sashes operable.
- A casement windowuses a hinged sash operated by an interior crank or handle that allows the user to open the window a full 90 degrees for maximum ventilation. Colonial casement windows operate the same as a traditional casement window with the difference being a decorative meeting rail to enhance its appearance.
- Picture windowsare fixed panes of glass that do not include any operation. Often they are strategically placed to enhance property views.
- Awning windowsutilize hinges mounted at the top of the sash. This allows the window bottom to swing out when open. A crank or handle located at the base operates the window.
- Garden windowsare those types of windows that extend outwards, away from the frame and incorporate side, top and bottom panes to create a box. They are designed to invite sunshine and showcase plants or herb gardens.
- Geometric windowsare fixed panels of glass that do not open or shut. They are available in many shapes and sizes and are commonly used over entryways, stairwells or any other area where natural light is desired.
- Skylightsare fixed or operable windows installed in ceiling areas. Their main function is to allow natural light to enhance interior areas.
Window Panes and Glazing
- Single paneor single glazed windows utilize a single layer of clear glass that is typically 4mm thick.
- Double paned windowsincorporate two panes of glass with an air or gas-filled layer in between. Typically, the gas is argon but some manufacturer's use krypton.
- Triple pane windowsutilize a third layer of glass and subsequent argon gases that increases energy and noise reduction capabilities significantly.
Window Frame Material
- Vinyl framedwindows are made of PVC "polyvinyl chloride" and have quickly become the most popular window frame material among building contractors. The tough, rigid plastic never fades, peels, chips or requires maintenance.
- Fiberglassand plastic framed windows incorporate the best attributes from each material. The fiberglass elements stiffen the window and allow it to be painted, which is an attractive option for some property owners.
- Wood framedor wood-clad windows are wooden frames protected with a vinyl, aluminum or fiberglass jacket covering the exterior surfaces for added protection from outside elements. They allow you to showcase their beautiful, wood grain interiors with maximum protection on the outside.
Energy Efficiency
The level of energy efficiency you choose will depend on certain factors applicable to your area, budget and climate. Many factors contribute to a window's energy efficiency such as double or triple paned glass, Low-E coatings and frame material. Before making a new window purchase, you should check state and local building codes or contact your local building department to determine efficiency requirements.
Storm Ratings
Coastal cities may also require the installation of hurricane rated/impact resistant windows. Contact your local building department to learn about new or replacement window requirements in your coastal community.
Window Permitting Requirements in North Carolina
Replacing existing windows when the opening or structure is not altered does not require a building permit in most municipalities. However, new construction applications or window installations that require alterations to the structure require a building permit. Before starting your window project, cover the bases and verify permitting requirements with your local building department. A homeowner starting a project that requires a building permit without first obtaining it faces the potential of paying double for the permit as well as other applicable fees and fines. Building permits and inspections ensure that all building practices adhere to the North Carolina State Building Code.
Rebates and Incentives for North Carolina
A new window installation project may require a significant out-of-pocket expense, especially for whole house installations. In addition, you might encounter unforeseen circumstances during the installation process that increase the cost of the project such as damaged drywall, rotten studs or concrete and stucco repair. To reduce out-of-pocket expense, it is to your benefit to take advantage of cost-cutting incentive programs available in North Carolina. Many state and city localities in North Carolina as well as the federal government have realized the value to energy conservation, and they have set in place home improvement rebates and incentives designed to promote energy efficiency. These programs often include window replacement when the windows meet a set criteria of energy efficiency.
- Search for available rebates and incentive programs in North Carolina by visiting the "DSIRE" Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency website by clicking here.
- Visit govfor a comprehensive list of tax credits, rebates and savings available to North Carolina residents.
- Find incentives and rebates for energy efficient windows offered through utility and state programs in North Carolina by clicking here.
Where to Buy Windows in North Carolina
Property owners have many options from which to choose when purchasing new windows for their home or business in North Carolina. Home improvement centers, window supply companies and manufacturers are the most common. You can purchase windows individually or in whole house packages. Many retailers offer installation services as well. You can shop online or visit their showroom in person, but they will require a precise measurement of each opening before you place an order. Unless you are purchasing a popular size they carry in stock, one of their representatives will be assigned to measure your property accordingly. This provides a layer of protection for both you and the manufacturer by ensuring that once the windows are fabricated, they will fit easily into existing window openings. One advantage to purchasing windows through a home improvement center is they sometimes offer their own rebates, incentives and special financing options to acquire your business, which can help to reduce the overall project costs.
North Carolina Window Contractors
The State of North Carolina requires that all residential and building contractors operating in the state be licensed, certified and carry the proper type and amount of insurance coverage. Hiring the right contractor is important as there are many who fall short of the strict, statewide requirements. You can verify the legality of potential North Carolina contractors and verify the status of their license online by visiting The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors.
Paying for New Windows in North Carolina
Paying for your new window purchase may require a substantial upfront investment. Property owners who do not have the necessary cash to cover the out-of-pocket expense can finance their purchase. As mentioned above, large window retailers often offer financing to attract your business. Their rates are competitive to or better than traditional financing options. Banks and other lending institutions offer HELOC's "Home Equity Lines of Credit" to North Carolina property owners with some lenders providing attractive or reduced rates for energy efficient home & business improvement projects.
Return on Window Investment
Installing new or replacing old windows in your home or business provides a good "ROI" return on investment. In addition to increasing the aesthetic appeal of your property, a new window installation will increase its value. Inoperable, inefficient and dated or broken windows can have a negative affect on property values. Replacing them with newer, more efficient windows of today provides you with a substantial marketing tool should you ever decide to sell the property.
Now that you've completed your window installation project you can increase your property's energy efficiency with a home energy audit. Many utility companies offer free home energy audits or substantial rebates to reduce out-of-pocket expense. An energy audit identifies areas of your home that allow conditioned air to escape or require additional insulation. Sealing your home properly reduces energy loss, reduces energy costs and reduces greenhouse gases that harm our environment.
By doing your homework and planning your window installation project carefully, you can achieve a professional result, increase your property value and realize reduced energy costs.


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Even more impressive is the fact that these innovative mobile apps allow maintenance personnel to create new work orders while being able to attach images for improved clarity and efficiency.
Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) July 10, 2014
Signature Vacation Rentals, a world leader in luxury vacation rentals serving Phoenix and all of Arizona announces innovative mobile apps for maintenance personnel. The company continues to impress industry onlookers by providing the absolute best in vacation rental property management. Signature Vacation Rentals accomplishes this goal by providing excellent interactions with property owners, vacationers and others in order to deliver outstanding value and impressive customer service. By announcing mobile apps for maintenance personnel, Signature Vacation Rentals is continuing on with a long tradition of taking full advantage of all the modern technology has to offer as a way to make property management more efficient, more affordable and better organized.
Signature Vacation Rentals offers mobile apps for maintenance personnel as a way to streamline all aspects of maintenance with regard to vacation properties, short-term rentals and corporate rentals. The technology is unique and highly intuitive and affords maintenance personnel the opportunity to be alerted when work orders are entered into the system and subsequently assigned to a specific maintenance staff member. Best of all, this advanced technology that leverages mobile connectivity provides maintenance personnel with the opportunity to update work orders with status, photos and other relevant information. It also allows maintenance personnel to mark off pricing when a particular item is complete. Signature Vacation Rentals continues to lead the way in the industry when it comes to taking full advantage of modern mobile applications.
Even more impressive is the fact that these innovative mobile apps allow maintenance personnel to create new work orders while being able to attach images for improved clarity and efficiency. In addition, maintenance staff can enter all new work orders, charges, photos and work that have been completed so as to automatically e-mail this data to owners. This is important due to the fact that it provides complete and clear transparency for both property owners and vacationers. It also gives maintenance staff improved accountability and allows them to better organize their activities. Signature Vacation Rentals believes that quality customer service begins with giving staff members the most advanced and up-to-date tools possible.
Signature Vacation Rentals is delighted to offer this innovative and cutting-edge technology to its dedicated maintenance personnel as a way to make their job easier. It also provides the property owner as well as vacationer with a more streamlined and more enjoyable experience. Providing an exceptional vacation rental experience for those throughout Arizona is what this market leader has been doing for more than a decade. With in excess of 50 years of combined vacation rental experience, Signature Vacation Rentals is setting the standard throughout the industry when it comes to the very best in vacation rental property management. This recent announcement of mobile apps for maintenance personnel is further confirmation that Signature Vacation Rentals continues to be an industry leader in the field.
Signature Vacation Rentals is an innovative expert in vacation rentals and property management throughout Phoenix, Mesa and captivating Sedona Arizona. The company offers unique and professional short-term rental, vacation rentals and corporate housing that consistently exceed client's expectations. As in industry leader in the Phoenix, Mesa and Sedona rental market, Signature Vacation Rentals is respected for excellence in customer service and personalized professionalism. Located in sunny and friendly Phoenix Arizona, Signature Vacation Rentals strives to make every vacation, short-term housing or corporate housing accommodation perfect in every way.


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Poof! Bag of Loot!
The Official Poof! Bag of Loot! Homepage
Poof! Bag of Loot! is a long-running campaign based in a homebrewed setting. The DM and the characters worked together to flesh out the world.
General Information about the world
The world in which you inhabit has a dark, rich history. Centuries ago, for reasons long forgotten, the world was divided in a worldwide civil war. What little is remembered about the war is mostly told through folklore and myth. Some stories tell that the nations fought over some powerful artifact, others say it was over land, and others still say that it was the work of the gods themselves. What the world does know, is that the consequence of the final battle of that war is still very evident. Located almost centered in the world is what is called The Wastes.
The Wastes are a vast wasteland of rubble and ash. The ground is a brownish-gray still from the remains of the dead and ruins that litter the landscape. The names of the nations that once resided here are long gone, but legend states that they were the most powerful of the dragonborn and tielfing nations, and that those races have never fully recoved since then. No one knows what caused the giant explosion that left The Wastes the way they are now, but stories tell that the warring factions summoned mighty Titans – beings of pure and unimaginable power to the world – hoping to crush their foes. The titans proved to be harder to control than the nations thought, and the cost to banish them was high.
Another fact of the war, is that the gnomes refused to be a part of wanton destruction that the civil war promised. Using their technological ingenuity, the gnomes were able to lift their entire nation into the sky, and there it remains today, floating among the clouds. No one knows much about the mysterious gnomes, and the few that trade with them tell extravagant tales of their mechanical inventions and power to always get their way.
It has been centuries since the war, and life goes on across the world. Many people live normal lives with no incident. But something is stirring in the far reaches of the world. Rumors have been spreading about goblins, kobolds, and ogres coming down out of the mountains for the first time in decades. People speak in hushed whispers about the return of the Titans to finish what they started long ago. A chill wind of change is moving through the world, and no one knows where it might lead.
Things to think about during character creation
Questions to help create a background for your character:
Are you a native, born and raised in the area? If so, who's your family? What's your current occupation?
Are you a recent arrival? Where did you come from? Why did you come to this area?
Are you a transplant who has been in the area for a year or more? Where are you from? Why did you come here and what made you stay?
Also, consider a motivation for your character. This should be a reason for adventuring. Try to be as specific and personal as possible. Some good examples are:
"An obsessive curiosity about arcane secrets propels me."
"The destruction of my village drives me to vengeance against bandits and anyone else who reminds me of them."
"In tribute to the brother who died saving my life, I have sworn to spread the worship of Pelor."
"An oracle told me I'd learn the secret of my true parentage somewhere in The Wastes."
Another thing to consider, is why you would want to spend all of your time with your newfound friends. Think of a relationship you may have with another PC, whether it be family, coworker, romantic partner, or worshipers of the same deity.
Then also, think of a contrast you may have with another PC. These can be minor and even humorous. Differences over minor theological points or the best way to skin a cat might be good contrasts.
Keep in mind, these last two might have to wait until all characters are created and their backgrounds decided.
The name came from the DM's habit of saying, "The monster dies and Poof! Turns to a bag of loot!". A funny way of explaining why he was removing the miniatures from the board, other than simply to keep it clear of unnecessary clutter.
Hopefully, within the next few months, these pages will fill with information about the world and the exploits of the adventurers in it.


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Pediatric Psychology Visiting Professor Search – University of Kansas
VISITING ASSISTANT PROFESSOR — Pediatric Psychology. The Clinical Child Psychology Program at the University of Kansas invites applications for a visiting professor position to begin as early as August 18, 2014. This will be a three-year term (2014-2017). Applicants are expected to have an earned Ph.D. (or ABD) in clinical psychology, with specific experience/expertise in pediatric/child health psychology by the start date of the appointment. We are seeking a clinical scientist whose research and teaching will complement the Clinical Child Psychology Program's current strengths in pediatric psychology and will contribute to the University's Strategic Initiatives (e.g., Promoting Well-being, Finding Cures).
The successful candidate will hold an appointment in the Clinical Child Psychology Program (CCPP), an interdepartmental program of the Departments of Psychology and Applied Behavioral Science. The Program is consistently ranked in the top 10 Clinical Psychology Programs by US News and World Report, and has received national awards for quality of training in clinical psychological science. The CCPP enjoys close collaborative relationships with the University of Kansas Medical Center, Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, local school districts, and mental health centers. The University of Kansas is located in Lawrence, Kansas, 30 miles from Kansas City. The University of Kansas is a major research university with an exceptional tradition of research and service in child health and development. The CCPP has close ties with the Schielfelbusch Center for Life Span Studies (LSI), one of the University's largest designated research centers.
For more information about the position please contact Dr. Ric G. Steele, Director, Clinical Child Psychology Program (firstname.lastname@example.com) or (785-864-0550).
For a complete announcement and application instructions, go to http://employment.ku.edu and search with keyword "pediatric psychology". The following documents should be included with your application profile: letter of application, CV, a list of three references, a research statement, a teaching statement, and a clinical interest statement. In addition, applicants must arrange to have three letters of recommendation that evaluate scholarly potential/achievement and teaching, as well as representative reprints sent to:
Pediatric Psychology Visiting Professor Search
Clinical Child Psychology Program
2015 Dole Human Development Center
University of Kansas
1000 Sunnyside Avenue
Lawrence, KS 66045
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Initial review of applications will begin March 17th, and will continue as long as needed to identify a qualified pool.


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Worms World Party Remastered
Imagine taking the perfect online gaming experience and one of the most popular Worms games ever made, adding a touch of Steam achievements, leaderboards, cloud saves, full controller support; a little sprinkle of 1080p / 60FPS, all rounded off with enhanced weapon sounds effects and an improved frontend. And you have Worms World Party Remastered.
With both single player and up to 6 players leading their worms into manic multiplayer mayhem, this unique, wacky, outrageous, addictive and deadly (to Worms anyway) combat game is remastered and ready for action.
Quickstart Game – get to play quickly with predefined team and weapon set against AI (Wormbots).
Training – host different disciplines in which to train. You work against the clock.
Missions – ranged between easy and hard. Custom terrains for won missions unlock for normal games.
Time Attack – Missions but with different ways to complete them. The player must figure out which one is the fastest.
Deathmatch challenge – similar to normal games. Player take on a number of computer teams in an ever-increasing spiral of difficulty. Rewards given to high ranked teams.
OS: Windows XP
Processor: Dual Core CPU 2.4 gHz
Memory: 2 GB RAM
Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4000, Nvidia GeForce 8000, ATI Radeon HD 4800 Series
DirectX: Version 9.0
Hard Drive: 1 GB available space
Sound Card: Windows Compatible Card
Additional Notes: We recommend updating your PC's hardware drivers before playing. If your PC is no longer supported by your manufacturer and your hardware drivers are very old, you may experience difficulty running the game. Please check with your PC manufacturer for more details.
Worms World Party Remastered Game Play
Worms World Party Remastered – FLT
Genre: Action, Indie, Strategy
Developer: Team17 Digital Ltd
Publisher: Team17 Digital Ltd
Release Date: 16 Jul, 2015
-Mount İso
-Install game
Worms World Party Remastered [PC] Torrent Download


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Commitment seems to come naturally to Anne Arundel County resident R. Kent Schwab.
As a Boy Scout he completed his Eagle Scout requirements before he was 15. He joined his high school newspaper and eventually became editor. And when he joined a fraternity in college, he ended up serving as its president.
So it's not surprising that after listening to a presentation eight years ago about a new fundraising campaign for the Baltimore Washington Medical Center, Schwab didn't just offer his help but jumped in with both feet.
"My friends say I can't say no," said Schwab, who oversees four Allstate insurance agencies in the state.
But he says that tendency is a result of the way he was raised.
"My parents, especially my mother, encouraged me to participate in extracurricular activities," he said. "And I've always done that."
The presentation he attended was for the Anne Arundel County hospital's new Tate Cancer Center. After hearing plans for the cancer center and healing garden, he and his wife, Nicki, decided to dedicate their time and resources to helping the hospital foundation reach its goal.
"It was a very easy mission statement to grab hold of," said Schwab. "It was very powerful. Cancer is something that is very prevalent in our state."
Schwab served for six years as a board member on the Baltimore Washington Medical Center Foundation, the fundraising arm of the hospital.
He now serves on the medical center's board of directors, including its executive committee. He also co-chaired the hospital's largest capital campaign, which paved the way for a $120 million expansion of the medical center, including an expanded emergency department, a 111-bed, eight-story patient care building and a women's health center.
"When you drive by there now and see the new tower, it's just spectacular," said Schwab, who estimates he spends about five to eight hours a week volunteering at the hospital. "This started as a tiny hospital 50 years ago, serving a very small community. It's grown to be a regional medical center and part of the University of Maryland Medical System."
Without people like Schwab, the hospital would have a much harder time when it comes to raising money and community interest, said Beth Peters, vice president of development for the hospital.
Peters said that no matter what was needed during the capital campaign, Schwab always made himself available.
"He was absolutely critical," she said. "A contribution from someone like Kent is just priceless."
Karen E. Olscamp, president and CEO of the Baltimore Washington Medical Center, agrees.
"It is dedicated leaders like Kent who really are vital to our success and ability to serve our community," said Olscamp. "He really brings so much to the organization. His links to the community, as well as his energy and contagious enthusiasm, have been critically important to our evolution."
Schwab said being a part of the community he lives and works in is important. Surrounding himself with positive people keeps him motivated.
"Even when I started my career with Allstate in 1977, I gravitated toward those agents who were successful and positive," said Schwab. "On the foundation board, there is this wonderful collection of men and women from all different occupations, and they all shared this one thing: They were all very positive and upbeat. I really enjoy that."
Schwab leverages his personal and business relationships, Allstate's Agency Hands in the Community grants, and his own personal funding to support the hospital.
"I just think it's a wonderful use of my time right now at [this] stage in my life," he said about volunteering. "This affects a lot of people."
His dedication and community service earned national recognition from Allstate. This year he was nominated for the company's highest community involvement award, the Ray Lynch Community Service Award.
Schwab received $2,000 to give to his charity of choice: the Baltimore Washington Medical Center Foundation.


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In 2007, I became an egg donor for the first time. In 2009, I was diagnosed with Stage IV endometriosis and told that if I ever wanted to get pregnant, I would need to pursue IVF right away. In 2010, I did just that—two IVF cycles, both of which failed.
This background has given me a unique perspective on the fertility industry. I've seen it from both sides: as a donor and a patient. And through that experience, I came to realize that there is a lot about the practice of egg donation that probably needs to change.
RELATED: Will I Hurt My Kid Because I'm a Single Mom?
I also realized that most egg donor recipients have no idea those issues exist: Not because they are heartless or don't care, but because the standard sales line they are getting from clinics is the same most donors are fed: Egg donation is practically risk-free and a win-win for all parties involved.
The truth, unfortunately, is a little more complicated than that. And it's the reason why I personally have always known I could never use an egg donor.
But it's also why I feel really strongly about reaching out to potential egg donor recipients. Not because I want to talk them out of using a donor (I think egg donation, when done right, can be a really beautiful way to build a family), but because their voices are the ones most likely to be heard in a call for change.
Change that will hopefully one day include better regulations to protect donors and actual long-term research into the potential health risks donors face.
(Egg donation) felt very transactional and shrouded in feel-good marketing language, like I was on a conveyor belt where thousands had passed before me.
Raquel Cool is the founder of We Are Egg Donors (WAED)—the only group of its kind bringing donors together to discuss their experiences. I was able to interview her recently about some of what she's learned in her years of working with donors, and some of what she wishes recipients knew about the process donors face:
Can you share your background as a donor? And a bit about how the concept of WAED came to you?
Before I donated eggs I had donated my hair and blood and had registered to become an organ donor. I found the experience of egg donation to be a completely different exchange, though. It felt very transactional and shrouded in feel-good marketing language, like I was on a conveyor belt where thousands had passed before me.
When I asked if I could connect with other donors to ask questions of them, my agency told me they wouldn't arrange a call unless they could be on the line. It wasn't until I connected with Claire and Sierra (the other two founding members of WAED) through online blog posts that I finally met other egg donors! We had so much to say about our donations, with the kind of kinship and intimacy and no-such-thing-as-a-TMIness that you'd expect from going out for drinks with close friends. We started having weekly video calls that were incredibly meaningful to us, and we wanted to expand that and have others join the conversation. Our goal was to create a safe space so that women could have authentic conversations about the commercial sides of egg donation, the risks and what matters to egg donors. We wanted to open that conversation so that potential donors could actually ask the questions none of us were able to ask before we donated. It was like turning on a light! We had no idea what we would find.
We've had donors who were intimidated and threatened by agencies when they tried to back out prior to donation, donors who felt as though their medical needs were the lowest priority ...
What are some of the positive things that have come into your life because of egg donation and this platform you've built?
WAED has been a powerful vehicle that supports informed choice. We don't accept donations from the fertility industry (though those donations have been offered), because we feel strongly about keeping the stories we share uncompromised. Our blog features so many different perspectives and considerations that have helped so many people around the world decide whether or not they want to pursue egg donation. Positive, negative and neutral—we allow all of it. Mostly because we want potential donors to have a full picture of what awaits them, and we want past donors to know they aren't alone in their experiences.
There's a one-sidedness that comes with egg donation, where donors are expected to defer to medical authorities and keep the process seamless and efficient. The professionalization of the process can create a dynamic in which a donor is afraid to speak up with questions, with concerns.
We've had donors who were intimidated and threatened by agencies when they tried to back out prior to donation, donors who felt as though their medical needs were the lowest priority, and donors who have revealed how little agencies actually do to vet the donors they present to recipients.
Donors shouldn't have to sneak photos of their medical records because the doctor refuses to tell them what's going on. I think the best moments on the forum are when a donor says, "Hey, you ladies have given me the courage to speak up. I would've felt pressured to continue. I would've been afraid to say no. I couldn't have done that without your support and understanding."
It used to be that donor voices were absent from the conversation. Egg donors were kind of spoken for as a monolithic character—either voiceless, uninformed victims or doe-eyed altruists who were oh-so-happy to 'give the greatest gift' to help someone in need. Donors are people with complex feelings about their donations, and I hope that our humanness will be increasingly recognized by recipients and the mainstream population.
The American egg donor industry is very different from other countries because it is so profit-driven here.
What would you like to see change within the egg donation industry?
I think that a lot has changed, but not enough. There's a long way to go as far as shifting how egg donors are treated. Consistent standards of informed consent are sorely needed. The fertility industry needs to recognize that donors care about more research.
We have nearly 1,000 members in 12-plus countries. There have been numerous short- and long-term risks reported within our group, to the point where we had to create a sub-group to address women who have had issues. Yet still, no one in the fertility industry seems interested in following up on those issues or conducting the research that might actually produce answers.
The American egg donor industry is very different from other countries because it is so profit-driven here. The quest for higher numbers of eggs means a scary number of donors are sent to the hospital for severe OHSS (ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome)—where they have to have their stomach tapped and drained. This is a risk that we're often told only happens 1 percent of the time, but within our population of donors? It's much, much more common.
RELATED: What It's Like to Be Pregnant With a Donor Egg Baby
There's no tracking though. This data isn't being collected. Not only is the ASRM not interested in collecting it, the President Elect has testified at the State Capitol in Sacramento that the data we have (which, again, is none) is sufficient. I was in attendance when he made that argument. They really don't care to further this research.
Which means donors and recipients alike aren't getting the information they deserve.
This won't change until all parties involved start asking more questions, demanding more research and placing a priority on donor health.


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Steven and Christie have a chat with the Utah Symphony's own cello virtuoso, Rainer Eudeikis. Rosin up!
Dying to get to know Chelsea
We talk death and dying with Chelsea Tolman from https://mbalmergirl.wordpress.com/
The he(art) of SLC
We chat Kristen Beck, the newly minted Executive Director of the Salt Lake Cultural Core about the history of the program and what we can expect over the next year or so.
SLC's Fringe Culture
Great Salt Lake Fringe Festival director Shianne Gray joins the dynamic trio of Kristian, Steven (back from parts unknown), and Christie to discuss the depth and breadth of this year's offerings for the thespian lover in all of us.
Kristian writes an Op-Ed about challenging art works
As appeared in the Salt Lake Tribune…
However, in questioning the New York Shakespeare Festival's recent production of "Julius Caesar," I noticed that you were not posing a political question, but rather were looking to the greater Twitter community for some "serious" answers on how to best approach arts and culture.
Just in case you have forgotten, your tweet was: "I wonder how much of the 'art' is funded by taxpayers? Serious question, when does 'art' become political speech & does that change things?"
First of all, let me say, "Bravo to you, sir!" As someone who runs a contemporary art museum I see people every day who are uncomfortable admitting that they might not understand something. It takes a lot to ask for help, and especially for us middle age white men (I go through this all the time with my 6-year-old when he asks me something that I don't know the answer to but want to look cool).
I can tell you have a couple of questions, some are more direct and others a bit more philosophical.
Let's start with the easy one: How much funding comes from taxpayers? Luckily for us, the tax filings for the New York Shakespeare Festival are readily available on their website, publictheater.org. As 501(c)(3) organizations are ultimately entities of public trust and regulated by a state's attorney general, it is fantastic to see that public trust component of their charge enough to fully and thoroughly disclose their financial dealings.
If you take a look at their 2015 Form 990, Page 9, you will see that $886,000 comes from government grants. Equaling roughly 2.2 percent of their income — not an insignificant sum — but, when taken as a percentage, it isn't huge number. As a citizen and taxpayer of the state of New York, you should take pride in an organization that is so independent.
The second question, as to when "art becomes political speech" is going to be a bit harder to answer. I think there is a long history of art that is political speech, just as there is a long history of art that is apolitical. However, as usual, the tension comes at the margins of an argument where the answer is less clear.
I might have you consider the work of an artist that is not usually on the lists of controversial artists of the past 100 years, Norman Rockwell. Take a look at his 1964 painting, "The Problem We All Live With." In it, Rockwell depicts U.S. marshals escorting a young black child to a previously all-white school during the desegregation crisis of 1960.
It is difficult to look at. The violence directed towards an innocent 6-year-old girl is abhorrent. The racial slurs and KKK signs in the painting stir us to think about who controls political and economic power to what lengths they will go in order to maintain it.
Although art doesn't have to be unsettling, often times the creative works that stand the test of time are. Beyond visual art, "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" unsettles me to this day. "Strange Fruit" by Billie Holiday is a hard song. Steinbeck's "Grapes of Wrath," although set in the 1930s, continues to resonate in a country where jobs surrounding coal and manufacturing have created another generation of poor who feel forgotten.
As for "Julius Caesar," it has been shown for 400 years or so. People have felt drawn to a story addressing the dangers of dictatorships and danger of vigilantism masquerading as patriotism.
I might humbly suggest that the Rockwell painting was, and continues to be, political speech. Does that change your opinion of Norman Rockwell? I find it hard to believe that if you were considering buying your father a Norman Rockwell calendar or mug for this upcoming Father's Day, this image would change your mind. Just because an artist has the desire to remind us that we, as a culture, have shortcomings to address does not make them less of an artist. In fact, I would say that it makes them a better artist for taking the risk.
I hope your father enjoys his new mug.
Kristian Anderson
Executive Director, Utah Museum of Contemporary Art
Utah Presents director Brooke Horejsi
Utah Presents Executive Director Brooke Horejsi teases the upcoming season of offerings.


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Diane Williams Esprits De L'Eau
Esprits De L'Eau24h x 30w
Price: $600
Contact Artist
I travelled to Southern France May 2015 to photograph the magical white horses of the Camargue. The Camargue horse is an ancient breed of horse indigenous to the Camargue area in southern France. Its origins remain relatively unknown, although it is generally considered one of the oldest breeds of horses in the world. For centuries, possibly thousands of years, these small horses have lived wild in the harsh environment of the Camargue marshes and wetlands of the Rhône delta, which covers part of the départements of Gard and Bouches-du-Rhône. Traditionally, they live in semi-feral conditions in the marshy land of the region. The Camargue horse is the traditional mount of the gardians, the Camargue "cowboys" who herd the black Camargue bulls used in bullfighting in southern France.
Website: http://www.dianewilliamsart.com/
Millarville, Alberta
Canada, T0L 1K0
Phone Number: (403) 931-2733


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"The Guru Gayatri of Guru Gobind Singh has the power of the four Vedas, six Puranas and 36 Simritis. All these are equal to reciting the Guru Gayatri just once. Traditionally, only a person who has been initiated by a guru is entitled to chant a gayatri. First you have to find a guru, one with God consciousness, and then he needs to initiate you. Only then are you entitled to chant the gayatri. That is why Guru Gobind Singh recited this Gayatri for his Sikhs, and that is why this is known as the Guru Gayatri. Whosoever shall chant it, the Primal Power, the Adi Shakti, will guard that being.
This mantra is a "Shakti" mantra. Shakti gives one the positive power of God. If you chant this mantra, there shall be no enemy, including one's own ego, which can overpower you. It is a mantra of deathlessness, and the personal mantra of Baba Deep Singh." – Siri Singh Sahib Bhai Sahib Harbhajan Singh Yogiji (7/9/75)
Related Blog Post
Gobinday Mukhanday Audio


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Naomi Scott, currently working on
Steven Spielberg-produced sci-fi show Terra Nova, reveals the secrets of perfecting a US accent, finding her inner Disney cheese – and whether Lemonade Mouth is the new High School Musical.
Is Lemonade Mouth the new High School Musical?
Naturally people have compared the two. Itâs flattering considering the success of High School Musical but this isnât a musical, as such. Itâs about a band, so the songs are performed rather than spontaneous. Itâs maybe aimed at a slightly older audience.
How was your US accent?
Interesting. Iâd never auditioned using a US accent before. Luckily they thought I was good enough and I just went for it. Hopefully I did all right. I didnât have any training, I had to learn on the job. There was a sound guy who would say after a take: âThat sounded British.â That was as much as I got.
What did you struggle with?
I had to say: âI have to go to AP class.â I kept saying: âI have to go to a plea classâ, because I didnât know what an AP class was. I asked at the time but Iâve forgotten. Itâs a mystery. Sometimes my words got muddled but, on the whole, it wasnât a problem.
As a British person, was it difficult to find your inner Disney cheese?
I understand what youâre saying. This is feel-good but it does have an edginess Disney hasnât done before. It has a good story and the music isnât cheesy â it stands alone.
What inspired you to want to become a performer?
Iâd always put on little shows at home but when I was 11 I did a community event in Woodford, where anyone could go. You had three days of vocal training and performed your song at the end. I sang I Say A Little Prayer. Itâs a tough song to sing but they gave me the confidence to go for it and belt it out. It was the first time Iâd sung and they thought I wasnât bad.
Youâre doing a Steven Spielberg dinosaur show, Terra Nova. Are you a dinosaur expert now?
We interact with CGI dinosaurs and have animatronics as well â they look so real itâs scary. I should be an expert but Iâm not. Iâm improving. I know about the TED conference now. Itâs this thing where scientists are making chickens into dinosaurs. Itâs really interesting.
Have you worked with Steven Spielberg yet?
Heâs one of the executives and we film in Australia. Sometimes weâll be on set and weâll be given props and the director says âthatâs a Spielberg propâ that heâs specified he wants in the shot. Weâll be like âoh wowâ and are thrilled to be holding an apple heâs asked for.
Is Kelle Bryan from Eternal still your manager?
Sheâs my agent. Sheâs a right sharp cookie. I was singing at an event when I was 14 when she approached me. She said: âI know you can actâ and âDisney will eat you up.â And Disney UK was my first job. Itâs weird to look back on moments like that. Sheâs had a lot of experience, so gives me advice on how to present myself or perform. Sheâs brilliant. None of my family are in the industry so itâs good to have someone like that.
Some Disney performers, such as Demi Lovato, have gone off the rails. Are you worried that will happen to you?
There are too many people around keeping me grounded to go off the rails. Iâm my own person. You canât generalise about people. Iâm aware of the decisions I make and the responsibility I have as a role model. I wouldnât disregard that. Itâs a privilege. Thatâs not to say people donât make mistakes â weâre all human. No oneâs perfect. Iâm just going to be myself.
Where do you see your career going?
Wherever I want it to go.
Youâre pretty confident then?
At the moment Iâm doing Terra Nova, which is amazing. I want to pursue music in the future but Iâm taking it a step at a time and making sure Iâm constantly growing.
Lemonade Mouth is on Disney Channel UK tonight at 6pm. The DVD is out on September 26.


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President Barack Obama outlined on Wednesday his intention to use executive action toward gun control legislation. Photo by Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images
In an address earlier today, President Barack Obama announced his legislative proposals for gun control, including a requirement for universal background checks for all gun sales and the reinstatement and strengthening of the assault weapons ban.
Last night on NewsHour, NRA President David Keene told Judy Woodruff that such restrictions and any ban on assault weapons or high-capacity magazines was "an attack on the Second Amendment," adding, "It is an attack on those Americans who purchased and legally use firearms, who have never committed a criminal act, who have never done anything wrong. And they can say that it doesn't infringe upon their rights, but, in fact, it does."
We want to hear from you. Do you think gun control and restriction is a necessity to the country's safety, or is it an attack on your Constitutional rights? Consider this an open thread.


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Happy Trails To You Roy Rogers Costume
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Roy and his Chuck Wagon
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|Costumes for Babies
This homemade costume for babies entered our 2015 Halloween Costume Contest.
A word from Jessica, the 'Happy Trails To You Roy Rogers' costume creator:
This is my 1 year old, Max. The idea to be Roy Rogers was inspired by my grandfather, an avid Roy Rogers fan and a avid Max fan! My grandfather has watched Roy Rogers and Gene Autry westerns for as long as I can remember. My husband and I decided to dress Max as Roy Rogers to bring joy to my grandfather! The how to on this particular costume: we used felt to make most of it. The chaps, fringe on the chaps, the vest and vest embellishments are all made of felt. The embellishments I used were stars and fringe. My mother stitched the embellishments on with a needle and thread, 2 stars on each side of the front facing vest and 3 stars across the back of the vest which is outlined with stitching all around. As well as the chaps, stitching down each leg to hold the fringe on. We purchased the hat at a local Halloween shop. 'Trigger', Roy Rogers horse is a stick horse and the rocking horse 'Roy' Max rode on was a birthday gift from our aunt. We also made a chuck wagon to complete the illusion of Roy. The boots and red bandana were purchased at Walmart. The white wrangler shirt from a local boot shop and the Levi jeans purchased from a local department store. We used a wooden box crate and painted it brown and used foam door ducting to hold the frame for the wagons cover. I hot glued the canvas to the ducting and lined the wagon with red Ric-rac ribbon. I painted the Woodlawn letter in red and outlined with a black sharpie 'Max Tatum as Roy Rogers' and hot glued them to the front facing of the chuck wagon! We played the tune "Happy Trails" as we were doing a 'photo shoot'.


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GREENEVILLE, Tenn. — Come join us for a Birthday Celebration with food, prizes and live music on February 4, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., at Morning Pointe of Greeneville, located at 324 Mt. Bethel Road. We will have guests from Caris, Life Care, Providence and Alzheimer's Tennessee, heavy hors d'oeuvres and refreshments, live music by Kim Smith and more!
For more information, call (423) 787-1711.
Morning Pointe Senior Living is celebrating its 20th anniversary by giving back. Together we will donate 20,000 hours of volunteer work, serving the greater community. For more information, visit www.morningpointe.com/makeyourmark.


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Yes, I know that I lean with my ass and not my shoulders. Viv already had The Discussion with me about that. Ignore the crazy monkey posture.
(thanks for the photos, V! Qapla'!)
Damn. This might be inevitable.
Yes, I know that I lean with my ass and not my shoulders. Viv already had The Discussion with me about that. Ignore the crazy monkey posture.
(thanks for the photos, V! Qapla'!)
Damn. This might be inevitable.
So this apparently is *not* the same thing as the much-maligned ZR-7? You would really go to an I-4 from the v-twin?! 🙂
Yeah, it's funny, Yosh (an I-4 girl) was drooling over the Tuono (a twin), and I (a twin girl) was drooling over the Z (an I-4). *grins*
The Z is really smooth. I mean, *really*. And it wasn't whiny at all like some of the other fours I've ridden. I mean, the 954, for example, has a wonderful sound that Peter likened to a Swiss watch, but it's still that inline-four high pitched whine…the Z was just…not whiny. I liked that.
Plus, adjustable brake AND clutch lever! My forearms sing the praises!
Have you already decided on the color? 🙂
I do like the blue, but fear that's just too obvious. If only they had a deep red….
The Z750S and the ZR-7S are definitely NOT the same bike, although the Z750S is the sort of descendant of the ZR-7S. I think some of the confusion comes from Kawa's naming conventions: I think they may have called the ZR-7S the Z750S in Europe, or it was their "internal" name or something like that. I believe my repair manual for my ZR-7S even says Z750.
Yes, it is true, my primary street bike is a ZR-7S. This maligned bike isn't as bad as you'd think. It is underpowered, and the engine is buzzy. But it is pretty fun to ride, very cheap, and the engine buzziness improves a lot with time (and seemingly by opening up the intake/exhaust.) The stock suspension just plain sucks, though. Anyway, I took it on the track recently and it was a ton of fun although it did illustrate that there are better bikes for the track. Honestly the biggest problem with it as a twisties/track bike is its low foot pegs.
But, the Z750S is supposed to be a very different bike. If nothing else, it has a much more powerful engine than the ZR-7S' Zephyr derived powerplant.
A Kawasaki in your future? Welcome to the Dark Side! Bwahahahaha!
Seriously, I love my Kaw, and would love to buy a new Voyager if they ever get around to re-releasing it. Maybe I'll give the Concours another look-see.
Kawasaki has a great engineering department, and a crappy marketing department. (Exactly the opposite of H— naw, forget it; too easy.) But that's fine by me, as I buy a bike once, and ride it a lot. Maintenance? I probably should change the oil; I can't remember when I did that last. And I'll probably give the chain a squirt of lube this month. The bike is rock solid, even if my PM schedule isn't.
I would like to congratulate on the possible birth of your new baby motocycle. 😉
Linda, with severe bike lust after watching Griz ride away on his new-to-him Suzuki (and sitting on it…of course 😉


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Business success depends on reliable IT systems. We understand the importance of having a resilient technology infrastructure with zero downtime. BrainPower MANAGE is designed with a proactive approach in mind to IT maintenance – deal with problems before they occur. Our remote monitoring, management and NOC services ensures your systems are up 24/7/365.
From design to execution, we help customers with technical assistance on projects where you lack technical expertise or the manpower. Some of the projects we have undertaken include: Server 2003 to Server 2008 migration; Exchange 2007 to Office 365 Migration; SBS 2003 to SBS 2011 Migration.
At BrainPower Technologies we have the right team in place and readily available to deliver top notch service. We are dedicated to highest level of customer service. Let us take care of IT – so you can focus on your business.
Data is company's life blood. You need to ensure your mission-critical data is protected in the event of server crashes or accidental deletes. Businesses today are heavily dependent on mobile workforces – data on damaged or stolen laptops need to be protected. Secure and reliable backup solution – onsite or offsite – is a MUST for business continuity.
BrainPower STORE backup solution keeps data secure and available at all times. We help you to implement backup: either on-site or off-site using our cloud services. At BrainPower Technologies, Managed Backup is one of the many Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Services we offer our clients. Contact us to find out more about our products and services.
Businesses today are adopting innovative content sharing and collaboration solutions to improve overall business productivity. Workforce is increasing mobile and not confined by offices or time zones. Users require access to up-to-date content of their files from remote locations. Brainpower SYNC is a cloud-based solution enabling users to sync, share and collaborate data securely.
Provides the ability to securely access all your content and share files from any iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android (Smartphones, Tablets) or from any other mobile devices using the rich HTML5-powered mobile website. It puts all of your content from all your workstations right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
BrainPower SYNC is a unique solution allowing users to sync and share content on multiple devices – install on your desktop or laptop and view content on your mobile devices.


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Totem Power, a company intent on pushing the boundaries of technological innovation, think they have the answer to the future of smart cities.
Their answer coms in the form of a unique invention that looks like a useless rain shield or simply a new and quirky design for a street lamp.
But the team at Totem Power will tell you that it's so much more than that.
The company has aptly dubbed it the 'Totem', and it is a platform that combines solar energy and energy storage, WiFi and 4G communications, electric vehicle charging, and smart lighting into a single, powerful product that weaves these capabilities directly into the built environment.
Totem Power Founder and CEO Brian Lakamp describes the Totem platform as a product which combines a renewable, resilient energy foundation with an advanced communications platform in a beautifully-designed and highly scalable product.
"The combination of features and form creates an exciting, groundbreaking platform for modern cities," he said.
"Totem's smart city infrastructure will be to communities as the smartphone is to the consumer, a powerful and extensible platform built atop core battery and communications capabilities."
Lakamp said Totem is set to digitise energy and provide clean power and sophisticated smart city services to communities.
Each Totem unit has five elements:
Totem's self-sustaining smart nodes are the first to combine solar energy, energy storage, energy management, advanced communications, EV charging and smart lighting into a single platform for companies and communities.
The platform's design allows it to provide its various services in various locations such as city streets, schools, corporate campuses and retail settings.
The Communications services provided respond to the future of energy networks, enabling greater connectivity. It's Electric Vehicle Charging (EV) functionality is intended to become the groundwork for a fundamental shift in transportation infrastructure that could include EVs and autonomous vehiclesEvery aspect of the platform, from its energy supply to communication enabling, works together to enable self-sustaining, resilient nodes for maintaining critical services during wider grid and network disruptions.
What also makes these platforms revolutionary is its ability to provide critical energy and communications services in the face of large-scale disruptions to both the electric grid and communication networks. With onboard generation and storage, Totem's energy foundation is self-sustaining and capable of maintaining critical services.
How will the smart city benefit?
"Totem will serve as the platform for the energy, transportation, communications and autonomous transformation that is needed to improve the efficiency, sustainability, connectivity, health and security of the cities of tomorrow," Lakamp said.
"Totem's platform provides clean power, expands access to internet and wireless networks, enables electric vehicles and autonomous fleets and provides intelligent lighting, that can do more than just turn on and off, in an integrated, visually stunning product."
"It stands as a symbol for the limitless possibilities of smart cities by simultaneously tackling key aspects of infrastructure modernization.
"The platform presents an integral tool for companies and communities seeking to bring sustainability and smart utility front and center in operations and interactions with the public," he said.
"It is a critical entry point for communities that want to enable cleaner and more capable lifestyles.
Kohn Pedersen Fox Director Jeffrey Kenoff, by 2020 the construction industry has the potential to comprise over $10 trillion, including the largest number of green projects in history.
"Despite vast regional distinctions, we all share the desire for smarter and better designed energy solutions," Kenoff said.
"Totem is one of the first to unite design, infrastructure, and community in a single as well as exquisite platform.
"It's hard to imagine a major project or public space that it would not transform."
The first Totem model is slated for release in 2017.


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Tokyo food prices are dropping according to a survey done by the Japanese government. This is not surprising too much, as competition between Japanese fast food restaurants increases.
Household budgets are being stretched as bonuses shrink. One area which families seem to cut back on is dad's lunch money. One coin lunch places (500 yen) can be seen frequently throughout the city.
If only my landlord would drop my rent!


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Foreign Minister Bob Carr must reveal his response to an Israeli court document blaming the country's prison service for the death of Melbourne man and suspected spy Ben Zygier, the Australian Greens say.
Zygier was found hanged in his supposedly suicide-proof cell in Israel's Ayalon Prison in December 2010.
Also known as Prisoner X, the dual Australian-Israeli was arrested 11 months earlier for alleged serious national security offences. Details remain scant but it is believed he worked for Israeli spy agency Mossad.
New court documents released this week following a petition by the Israeli media sheds some light on Zygier's imprisonment and death.
Written by a judge shortly after his death, the report reveals Zygier was known to be suicidal, had an emotionally charged exchange with his wife the day he was found hanged and that his cell was not properly watched by prison guards.
But the report sheds no light on Zygier's arrest, his alleged crimes or his trial.
Greens Leader Christine Milne wants to know how the Australian government is responding to the findings.
"Bob Carr needs to come clean on when he received that report and what action he took in the light of revelations that negligence was found in the prison system," she said in a statement.
"The report found negligence in the prison and yet no one will be charged - Bob Carr needs to explain what action he took with the Israeli government, what concerns he raised about the negligence of the prison guards, and provide answers on why Ben Zygier was not given extra care to alleviate his distressed state."
The report says during his time in Ayalon, Zygier was seen 57 times by social workers who found him to be suffering anxiety and suicidal tendencies.
Although Zygier's cell was supposed to be under constant surveillance, including in the bathroom area where he eventually hanged himself, a faulty bulb meant the area was in near total darkness when he took his own life.
The report also found the guardroom was not manned at the time of his death, with no one watching the surveillance cameras, some of which were faulty.
Despite the findings, the state attorney's office in Israel said it would not be pressing charges against any prison staff.


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Publication Date: Sept 1, 2015
Series: Earthbound (bk. 3)
Genera(s): Paranormal Romance
Subjects: mystery, supernatural, abilities, love, mythology, gods and goddesses, past lives, memory
Setting: Phoenix, AZ, and various places around the world
POV/Tense: 1st person POV, present tense: Tavia Michaels
Age/Grade Level: Teen
Length: 356 pgs.
HC/PB: Paperback (On Amazon)/E-Book
List Price: $9.99/$5.99
Publisher: Imaginary Properties LLC (NOT Penguin: Razorbill)
Summary/ product description: "Even with the power to create and destroy at will, Tavia Michaels couldn't save her parents. She couldn't save the boy she's loved for countless lifetimes. She barely managed to save herself from the treachery of supposed friends. So how can she save the world from a deadly plague--and the immortals spreading it? As the events of EARTHBOUND and EARTHQUAKE reach their thrilling conclusion, no one is safe--Tavia least of all!"
My Review: As the final book of the Earthbound Trilogy, Earthrise is an awesome, romantic finish. I couldn't have asked for a better ending to this series. Now I'm just sad it's over. I love Aprilynne Pike's books, though I've only read this series and the Wings series. She write really interesting, compelling characters. She does a great job of creating a world or society within the real world.
To recap, In Earthbound, Tavia suddenly has the ability to create things out of nothing, but they only last temporarily. She is living with an aunt and uncle after her parents died in a plane crash. Tavia was injured in the plane crash too and had to under go brain surgery. Some people are out to kill her and a guy named Benson, who works at the local library, helps her. She's seeing this blond guy, which turns out to be Quinn, her lover in a past life. At the end of the book she meets Quinn's current incarnation, Logan. She also finds out she's a goddess, an earthmaker. In Earthquake Tavia tries to convince Logan of what he is, and then his house explodes and they are both captured by the Rediciates and taken to their facility. Logan later receives his memories when they are taken to the Curatoria facility in the Death Valley area. Their powers resurge, but Tavia still only has memories from her past lives as Rebecca and as Sonya. The Rediciata creates a virus that can not only kill people, but Earthbounds too, permanently.
At the beginning of Earthrise, Tavia's mission to create and distribute vaccines to the world and involves help from a doctor and her friends. She travels to different country, trying to avoid the Reduciata Earthbounds Daniel and Mariana. Tavia exhausts herself and has to create high-caloric foods just to keep her energized enough to create vaccines. Some Earthbounds are dying and catastrophes are occurring. The Rediciata gets of the their tale and tries to discredit the vaccine. Bad stuff happens, but the ending wrap ups nicely.
Also, Tavia is back with Benson. I love Benson. Logan is okay, but Benson is just a regular guy who's father is an Earthbound and they got caught up in everything. Benson really cares for Tavia. He's smart, funny and sweet. Logan seems a bit arrogant in believing that Tavia has to love him. They've had so many lives together, many of which Tavia's unable to remember. I think she and Benson deserve a chance to be together for their life.
I recommend this series to fans of: Fallen by Lauren Kate, The Immortal series by Alyson Noel, Halo by Alexandra Adornetto, Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini, any books with mythology, gods and goddesses, angels, demon, magic or abilities. Paranormal Romance in general. Try this book. Also if you liked any Aprilynne Pike books, such as Wings, Spells, Illusions, Destined, Life After Theft or Sleep No More, read Earthbound.
Cover Art Review: Saundra Mitchell designed this cover? The author of the Vespertine? Really? Why wouldn't Penguin publish this final book?


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Have you ever wondered what were behind the closed gates of your neighbors? Walking around the village I usually have those questions in my mind. Last Sunday I happend to join my friend to visit a potential project car along Las pinas. Looking from the outside one would never guess that a Japanese classic chose this place to hibernate waiting for that time to be reborn.
Hmmmmm do I hear a 1JZ in a 280z? tempting hehehehehehehe.